Golf Vacations Magazine June 2018 by Golf Vacations Magazine

OUR 17th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots

GOLF VACATIONS JUNE 2018

SONORAN SENSATION

TROON NORTH GOLF CLUB

HOTEL PASEO CALIFORNIA COOL IN PALM DESERT

www.golfvacationsmag.com Vacations BREAK • June 2018 1 Plus: MEET THE LEE FAMILY • ST. MORITZGolfGOLF

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GOLF VACATIONS JUNE 2018

Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North, Scottsdale, Arizona

Chip Shots

My Turn: Meet The Lee Family . . . and $5 Rounds of Golf

Troon North Golf Club - Sonoran Sensation

California Cool at Hotel Paseo by Terry Ross

Taking a golf trip to play top-tier golf courses as a single can carry a hefty price tag. Financing a family golf vacation at these locations is close to impossible for most. Not anymore, thanks to an organization who’s on a mission to provide juniors with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Living in Bellevue, Wash., Mr. and Mrs. Peter Lee have three children. All five are golfers. They’ve traveled to Pebble Beach and played Spanish Bay, enjoyed the stunning Pacific Northwest views of Chambers Bay, and dozens other similar go-to destinations. Taking a look at their pro shop receipt, you’ll notice a $5 charge. It’s not a commemorative ball market, but an individual greens fee.

by David R. Holland

Many have said the blueprint for desert golf was made when Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish designed Troon North Monument Course back in 1989. The late Morrish subsequently downplayed that by saying he thought target-golf standards were set by Jack Nicklaus’ Desert Highlands and then Troon Country Club, a Weiskopf-Morrish private course. I really don’t care. What I care about is the pleasure it is to step on the grounds at Troon North. And when you top it off with a stay at nearby Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North you have one fine vacation.

While the Palm Springs region of the Southern California desert has long-been a popular vacation favorite for golfers and anyone else looking for a laid-back atmosphere to get away, the City of Palm Desert has grown into the hub of this Coachella Valley area as the central city for not only golf, but everything from shopping, art galleries, fine dining and any number of events.

Sweet Stuff

by Terry Ross

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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS 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.

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. “Multiple careers” best describes this world traveler (visited 35 countries), who achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force reserve. Holland 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. He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, UPI and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Follow Dave on Twitter @David_R_Holland.

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.

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

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.

Regional Advertising Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500 haroldc@GolfVacationsMag.com

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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 2018 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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Ernie Els approaching the 18th green of Wentworth’s West Course

Wentworth’s Newly-Designed West Course Has Come Of Age, Says Ernie Els WENTWORTH CLUB, SURREY – A little over 12 months on from the official unveiling of the renovated West Course, an Ernie Els Design-led project, the world of golf has never been richer in its praise for the iconic golf course. The four-time Major winner, World Golf Hall of Famer and chief architect of the long-term renovation and modernisation of this Harry Colt gem, was speaking ahead of this year’s BMW PGA Championship, the European Tour’s flagship tournament, which has long made its home at Wentworth Club. “There has been added anticipation to come back for this year’s event,” said Els, who won a record seven World Matchplay titles on Wentworth’s West Course. “Obviously, this club and this golf course have always had a very special place in my heart, right back to the start of my career. But I must say, the sense of pride for us as architects of this renovation, seeing the course presented the way it is this week, makes it even more

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special than before. The ‘new’ look debuted last year, we’d heard it was in incredible shape and I just really wanted to see it for myself. It’s great to be back.” Els went on to say: “You know, this was the dream, this was the vision we had in our minds way back when Greg Letsche [senior design associate at Ernie Els Design] and myself got the ball rolling on this renovation project. This was the blueprint, so to speak. The whole strategy, the core shot values, the construction and the look of the greens’ complexes, the bunkering, literally everything is now just as we envisaged it. And seriously, these must be the best putting surfaces in the country. They are incredible! It’s so nice to see and, of course, it’s great to hear the positive comments from the players this week and from the members who love it, too.” “The owners, Dr. Chanchai Ruayrungruang and his team, have given all of us their full commitment to help push this project to its successful conclusion and, just as importantly, the budget and the resources to enable Kenny and his team to maintain this wonderful golf course to the

absolute highest standards,” said Els. “And it shows literally everywhere you look. The conditioning of the playing surfaces, and the overall presentation, is as good as I’ve ever seen it.” Els concluded: “Right at the start I would say our goal, everyone’s goal, was to make Wentworth the leading venue for Championship golf in Europe and we believe that is what we’ve got here. It’s the perfect championship venue.” Speaking also this week, Kenny Mackay commented: “The whole team has worked very hard over the winter and in the build-up to this week. We’ve put our heart and soul into it, so obviously it’s very gratifying for us to hear Ernie and a lot of the other top players giving the course such high praise. From day one, the aim has been to make improvements to enhance playability for all. This has been achieved through wide-ranging changes and installing industry-leading technology that allows us to control how the greens play. We’ve called on a vast amount of design and playing experience and we believe this is Wentworth’s best ever course.”

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Casa De Campo Opens Its New World-Class Golf Learning Centre Casa de Campo Resort & Villas – home to the Caribbean’s premier, luxury golf experiences, including the iconic Teeth of the Dog course – has opened its new worldclass Golf Learning Center. The state-of-the-art facility is led by Charlie Epps, renowned instructor and longtime coach to twice major champion Angel Cabrera. Highlighted by Trackman and BODITRAK technology, it features two indoor hitting bays for rapid game improvement, year-round training, individual and group golf lessons and schools, and expert club-fitting and repair. Residing on 21 acres of “pure grass,” the PGA Tour-quality facility also showcases practice greens for honing putting, chipping and pitching games as well as unlimited use of the pristine outdoor range for full shots. On-course instruction is available on the resort’s three Pete Dye-designed layouts including celebrated Teeth of the Dog. Ideal to improve in the scenic Caribbean,

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the resort is offering a “Train in Paradise Package” starting at $823 (per person, per night). It includes deluxe accommodations in Pete Dye Golf Lodge and Elite guest rooms, one golf lesson per day with a Golf Learning Center professional, complimentary club-fitting, daily green fees and breakfast, a four-passenger golf cart to use throughout the stay, unlimited use of the resort’s fitness center, and club storage and shared cart when playing the courses. In an innovative approach, the resort is also offering a “PGA / LPGA Package” for visiting teaching professionals. It gives instructors full use of the Golf Learning Center facilities to provide their students with a place to train and improve at one of the world’s elite golf destinations. “Our new outstanding Golf Learning Center offers guests an exceptional setting to improve their respective games with our expert instructors and the latest technology” says Andres Pichardo Rosenberg, President of Casa de Campo. “We invite you to visit us for an extraordinary golf experience and discover first-hand why our golf courses,

accommodations, customer care and amenities are second to none.” Since opening in 1974, Teeth of the Dog has been a “bucket list” layout for those seeking to play one of the top 50 golf courses in the world. Dye’s design hallmarks are all present: railroad ties, vast waste areas, peninsula greens and tees, hand-sculpted putting surfaces and a unique assortment of pot bunkers. “The Heaven 7” oceanfront holes are astoundingly beautiful, causing Dye to famously quip: “I created 11 holes and God created seven.” Twenty-seven-hole Dye Fore joined Teeth of the Dog in 2002. Its three nines – Chavon, Marina and Lakes – are distinct. Chavon features seven holes running atop cliffs dropping 300 feet, Marina meanders down to a harbor ringed by restaurants and shops, and Lakes is artfully crafted across tumultuous terrain. Golf course architecture aficionados call Dye Fore “the most underrated course in the Caribbean.” For more information on Casa de Campo Resort & Villas visit www.casadecampo. com.do

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Golf and Gridiron Experience

Carr Golf Announces ‘Golf and Gridiron Experience’ for 2018 NFL Games in London DUBLIN, IRELAND – Carr Golf – Ireland, England and Scotland’s premier provider of unforgettable golf vacations – announces a custom-built itinerary for an unforgettable “Golf and Gridiron Experience” while enjoying the excitement of the NFL in London. The recently-announced NFL London games include: Seattle Seahawks vs. Oakland Raiders on Oct. 14 (Tottenham Stadium) Tennessee Titans vs. Los Angeles Chargers on Oct. 21 (Wembley Stadium) Philadelphia Eagles vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Oct. 28 (Wembley Stadium) Starting at $6,922 per person (£4,965 at the current exchange rate) and based on a group of eight participants, this exceptional offer features vehicle transport and a driver for the complete itinerary. Airfare to and from the U.K. is additional. Beginning on the Monday prior to Sunday NFL games in London, the week-long “Golf and Gridiron” itinerary starts with arrival in Manchester Airport (MAN) followed by golf (Mon. – Wed.) on three acclaimed courses on the British Open rota: Royal Liverpool,

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Royal Birkdale and Royal Lytham. Nightly accommodations while in the Manchester area are at the grand Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa. With Thursday a travel day down to London, the second half of the schedule begins by checking into one of the world’s finest hotels for the remainder of the stay, the Savoy London in the central part of the city. Friday provides the opportunity to play Sunningdale Golf Club, the classic English parkland course widely known to be as close to Augusta National as any club in the British Isles. Saturday is reserved for sightseeing in historic London before taking in the scheduled Sunday NFL matchup. Return flights leave out of Heathrow Airport (LHR) the following day. Please click here for additional details and to view the full itinerary of the “Golf and Gridiron Experience.” “Our ‘Golf and Gridiron Experience’ offers our guests the opportunity to combine two wonderful pastimes – golf and football – for an unforgettable and fun experience,” says Marty Carr, executive chairman. “We invite you to make the trip to England and let the travel experts here at Carr Golf create the trip of a lifetime for your group.” Set to open this summer, the new, state-

of-the-art Tottenham Stadium features a fully retractable grass field – the first in the U.K. – with an artificial surface underneath to be used for NFL games. The Oct. 14 matchup will be the first in a 10-year partnership between Tottenham and the NFL. Three teams – the Seahawks, Titans and Eagles – will be making their London debuts this season. A full-service tour company, Carr Golf specializes in unrivaled customer care and premier “one-of-a-kind” itineraries featuring luxury accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, fine dining, caddies and anything else needed for stress-free, unforgettable golf vacations. For more information on Carr Golf: www. carrgolf.com, 1.855.617.5701 (U.S. toll free) or +353.1.822 6662.

Tagmarshal Selected by Pinehurst Resort & Country Club to Further Enhance Player Experience PINEHURST, NC – Tagmarshal – the golf course intelligence and pace-of-play system used by golf courses, country clubs and resorts globally – is operational at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club, host of the 2019 U.S. Amateur Championship and one of Golf

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Digest’s top-five courses worldwide. With more single golf championships than any other site in America and home to nine challenging golf courses, Pinehurst will enhance its already renowned player experience and increase operational efficiencies by using Tagmarshal’s sophisticated geo-tagging and pace algorithm software. Equipped with vital statistics, some courses will expect to see a 15-17 minute decrease for each round and increased maintenance efficiency due to the use of heat mapping. “We are continuously looking for ways to improve our on-course capabilities and create more memorable experiences for guests,” says Matt Barksdale, PGA, Resort Head Golf Professional at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club. “The adoption of Tagmarshal has been seamless and the system has already produced positive insights for us to implement.” Recent installments of the system across the country have created 70 percent of rounds being played on pace or within five minutes of target goal times. Top-ranked courses trusting Tagmarshal include Carnoustie Golf (The 2018 Open Championship), The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (2021 PGA Championship), Whistling Straits (2020 Ryder Cup), Erin Hills (2017 U.S. Open), East Lake (2017 TOUR Championship), Valhalla (PGA Championship 2014), and more. “Turning pace of play into a revenue Zulm Hotel St. Moritz, Switzerland

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generator is what makes Tagmarshal’s technology so powerful,” says Bodo Sieber, CEO of Tagmarshal. “Putting realtime intelligence into the hands of course managers gives them invaluable data to support the decisions they make.” Partnering with Tagmarshal positions courses as industry leaders, giving them proven operational efficiencies, while superintendents use Tagmarshal data to better manage pin placements, wear patterns and hole set-ups.

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz Offers ‘Golf Break’ This Summer SWITZERLAND – Golf enthusiasts will find themselves on top of the world thanks to the ‘Golf Break’ package being offered by the iconic Kulm Hotel St. Moritz (www.kulm.com) to guests staying two nights or more in the Swiss Engadine Valley this summer. In addition to unlimited access to the par 27 Kulm Golf St. Moritz, the package includes one complimentary green fee at either the parkland, links-style layout at Samedan or its sister course at Zuoz, which weaves its way along the majestic mountainside and in between pine forests; both these 18-hole courses are under half an hour’s drive from the Kulm Hotel. Kulm golf course from the air 2 LOW RES. jpg Kulm - Rochon room in NeuKulm LOW RES.jpg The Engadine Valley has a reputation as a golfer’s paradise due to the spectacular Alpine

panoramas of fertile green valleys and dramatic mountain backdrops set against deep blue summer skies. Over 125 years ago, in 1891, the Kulm Golf St. Moritz, nestled among pines on the high Alps with stunning vistas over Lake St. Moritz, became the first 9-hole course in Switzerland. A course upgrade in 2001 by local designer, Mario Verdieri, improved the greens and brought the layout up to date. The mountainous nature of this course makes it physically challenging, but refreshment is close at hand, as the hotel’s Chesa al Parc restaurant is located in the grounds only a few metres from the start of the course. Two years later, Samedan became the first 18-hole golf course in Switzerland to open its doors and this year celebrates its 125th anniversary. A classic, parkland course with a touch of links, Samedan is set mainly on the valley floor, though the course does offer some gently undulating holes. It is characterized by broad fairways flanked by ancient, giant larch trees, some of which are over 700 years old, whilst numerous water hazards made up of a series of ponds and streams ensure it is a testing challenge of golf. Samedan is just a 10-minute drive from the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz. In 2003, these two courses were joined by the Zuoz-Madulain course – or simply Zuoz – just a 20-minute drive from St. Moritz. Despite being a relatively young course, the combination of undulating fairways, multiple elevation changes, receptive greens and its attractive setting so close to nature have made it extremely popular with golfers. In contrast to the golf course in Samedan (with its level terrain and plentiful lakes and streams), Zuoz is set on a few different levels and flanked on one side by natural, thick pine forest. Also included in the ‘Golf Break’ package are a sumptuous daily breakfast buffet and Gourmet Dine Around (half board), reduced green fees at Samedan and Zuoz for those wishing to play an extra round, a 25-minute AktiVital Massage as well as unlimited free access to the state-of-the-art, 2,000 sq m Kulm Spa St. Moritz, tennis courts and use of all the open mountain railways in the Engadin/St. Moritz region and public transportation in the valley (bus and Rhaetian railway). To qualify for the ‘Golf Break’ offer, simply book two consecutive nights at the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz between 22 June and 1 September 2018; rates per person for two nights start from CHF670 (approx £495) in a single room and CHF640 in a double room (based on two people sharing a double/twin room). Additional nights can be booked on request and complimentary green fees are offered to all those booking for four nights or more. Reservations can be made by phone on +41 81 836 80 00 or by e-mail via reservations@ kulm.com.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Extends Exclusive Golf Getaway To Rewards Members With Legendary Hall Of Famer

NORTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – For the fourth year, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe has collaborated with World Golf Hall of Fame member Annika Sorenstam to offer members of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Program an exclusive golf weekend getaway on August 10-12, 2018. The eventful weekend includes a two-night luxury stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, a golf clinic hosted by Annika, a round of golf at the Old Greenwood Golf Course in Truckee, hosted lunch, and round-trip transportation to all activities. Annika will also host a private reception for guests at the resort’s new lakeside amenity, Lake Club, The RitzCarlton, Lake Tahoe, which made its debut in June 2017. The Annika Golf Weekend is a unique member experience that begins with guests arriving at the resort on Friday, August 10

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and receiving round-trip transportation to the Lake Club for a private reception and the opportunity to meet Annika from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On Saturday morning, guests will be transported from the resort to the Old Greenwood Golf Course, where Annika will offer a 90-minute golf clinic, followed by an exclusive photography opportunity with Annika, and a round of golf on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course. Annika is the greatest female golfer of our generation, and during her 15-year Hall of Fame career, changed the way women’s golf was played. Through her six global ANNIKA Foundation tournaments, Annika provides opportunities in women’s golf at the junior, collegiate and professional levels while teaching young people the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition. Nestled among 600 acres of towering pines in the mountains near North Lake Tahoe, the Old Greenwood golf course offers world-class golf, and has been rated

among the 10 Best New Public Access Courses in the Country by Golf Magazine, and rated number four among America’s Finest New Upscale Public Courses by Golf Digest. The Annika Golf Weekend is available for $1,699.00 USD (plus taxes) for double occupancy, and includes: • Two nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe King Guest Room at The RitzCarlton, Lake Tahoe • Private reception on Friday evening with legendary golfer, Annika at the resort’s exclusive Lake Club • 90-minute Golf Clinic with Annika at the Old Greenwood Golf Course • 18-holes of golf (per participant) • Golf cart and practice balls •Lunch provided by The Golf Academy • Round-trip transportation to and from the Old Greenwood Golf Course from the resort • Round-trip transportation to and from Lake Club and the resort

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Single occupancy is available for $1,299 + taxes. Club Level, Suite and Deluxe Two Queen Guest Room accommodations are available for an additional charge. Space is limited and open only to members of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Program, which is complimentary and easy to join. To become a Ritz-Carlton Rewards Member, visit www.ritzcarltonrewards.com. To book this exclusive Member experience, please contact The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe at 530-562-3028 or visit http://ritzcarlton. com/en/rewards/news-offers.

Hundreds of golf courses tee up to help monarch butterflies TROY, NY – Audubon International and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) recently partnered to launch Monarchs in the Rough, a program to assist golf courses in the United States, Canada and Mexico in creating habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators in out-of-play areas. The program first rolled out in January 2018 with a goal of enrolling 100 courses. Today, the program has far surpassed its initial goal by enrolling more than 250 courses. The program has set a new goal of enrolling 500 additional courses, and launched a new website to feature participating courses.

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“The response from the golf community to helping pollinators recover from dramatic declines in recent years has been tremendous,” said Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International. “Habitat loss is a key driver of the monarch butterfly’s decline, and golf courses are uniquely positioned to help create new habitat and turn things around for this iconic species.” Golf course properties occupy approximately 2.5 million acres in the United States. Audubon International estimates there are at least 100,000 acres that have the potential to become suitable habitat for butterflies and bees, if managed appropriately. Monarchs in the Rough encourages golf courses to adopt conservation practices such as planting milkweed and other wildflowers that monarchs need to breed and feed, in addition to changing mowing practices to support the timing of the monarch’s migration, and protecting sites from pesticide treatments. “This program is not only helping turn things around for the monarch – it’s also an opportunity for the golf community to change the assumptions many people have about golf courses being unsustainable,” said Yank Moore, land manager for the Jekyll Island Authority and Golf Club in Jekyll Island, Georgia. “We have a real opportunity here to showcase the stewardship ethic of golf course managers and superintendents, and to educate the public

about conservation practices that support monarchs and other pollinators.” Monarchs in the Rough provides course superintendents and staff with the information they need to incorporate monarch habitat into the unique layout of each course. “We bring the scientific expertise and the technical support, and the golf courses bring the land and the staff who are already well positioned to implement conservation practices,” said Daniel Kaiser, senior manager of habitat markets at EDF. “As an avid golfer and conservationist, I couldn’t be more excited about this partnership and the potential it has to help change the trajectory for the monarch butterfly.” Participating courses expect that golfers will share the enthusiasm. “I can’t wait to hear what our golfers have to say about these conservation efforts,” said Isaac Breuer, golf course superintendent at the A.L. Gustin Golf Course at the University of Missouri. Breuer is an early program participant who has incorporated wildlife habitat management into the university course since 2010. “We know that our golfers notice and appreciate every effort we make to improve the natural beauty and sustainability of the course, because it makes the whole experience more enjoyable for both the golfer and the butterfly,” Breuer said.

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MYTURN

with The Lee Family

Family Choreographs Golf Vacations

Plays Top U.S. Courses For $5 per Round

aking a golf trip to play top-tier golf courses as a single can carry a hefty price tag. Financing a family golf vacation at these locations is close to impossible for most. Not anymore, thanks to an organization who’s on a mission to provide juniors with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Living in Bellevue, Wash., Mr. and Mrs. Peter Lee have three children. All five are golfers. They’ve traveled to Pebble Beach and played Spanish Bay, enjoyed the stunning Pacific Northwest views of Chambers Bay, and dozens other similar goto destinations. Taking a look at their pro shop receipt, you’ll notice a $5 charge. It’s not a commemorative ball market, but an individual greens fee. The kids (Christian, Grace, Lauren) are members of Youth on Course, which grants them access to $5 or less rounds of golf at over 650 courses in 23 states. The family picks a travel destination and search the database to find designated golf courses in the area. This quality time on the golf course has brought them closer than they could have ever imagined. For the Lee’s, Youth on Course is a travel hack, allowing them to see the country all while playing affordable golf together. We recently had the opportunity to sit down and speak with them. Enjoy our Q&A. How has golf/Youth on Course brought you closer as a family? •[Peter] - It’s provided a wonderful family experiences. We learn, bond and travel together all while playing high-quality courses. The kids have encouraged one another and helped each other grow in the game. It’s helped them build their confidence and expand their learning potential in and outside of golf. •[Christian] - We get a chance to bond and

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hang out as a family while traveling and playing golf. •[Grace] - We get to have fun together and talk. How did you all first get involved in golf (how did you start playing)? •[Christian] – My dad started taking me to the range when he went to practice. He started taking me to courses with him when we went on vacation to play together. •[Grace] – One day my dad was taking Christian to the range and I asked to go along. After that I got interested and started taking lessons. •[Lauren] – I saw Christian and Grace play so I wanted to join as well. Plus I like traveling as a family to play golf. How did you all get involved with Youth on Course? •[Peter] – We heard about this program from our golf association, Washington State Golf Association. It was exciting to hear about all the different courses we could play nationwide. What are some of your favorite places you have traveled to play golf? •[Christian] – Maui (Kaanapali and Makena, Wailea), Palm Springs, Scottsdale. •[Grace and Lauren] – Scottsdale, Palm Springs, Utah. What’s your favorite trip you have all went on and played golf at? •[Peter] – Longbow Golf Club (Mesa, Ariz.) and the Links at Spanish Bay in Monterey. •[Christian and Grace] – Spanish Bay and Chambers Bay. •[Lauren] – Chambers Bay. How do you choose which places to travel to? Do you decide together? Do you look for YOC courses before you go? •[Christian, Grace Lauren] – Our parents decide on the general area of where we will go (national park areas). We then turn to YOC and identify courses near that area and choose the ones we’d like to play.

What has the game of golf taught you? •[Christian] – Patience and how to be calm in pressure situations. •[Grace] – Patience. •[Lauren]- Don’t let interference or bad things get into your mind. How has Youth on Course helped your confidence on and off the course? •[Christian and Grace] – Allowing me to play golf at different places helped my confidence in understanding different course setup and strategy of how to play a certain course. Off the course, we’ve been able to travel to different states and expand our experiences. •[Lauren] – Even though some courses are hard, it makes me confident to play different courses. Why do you enjoy the game of golf? •[Christian] – It teaches me life lessons that can be applied outside of golf such as sportsmanship and integrity. •[Grace] – I enjoy the competition and making new friends. •[Lauren] – Because I get to laugh with my family. How do you all work together to make each other better on and off the course?/ How have you supported each other on and off the course? / How do you encourage each other to reach your goals? •[Christian] – Analyze each other’s weaknesses and receive helpful tips on how we can improve. •[Grace] – We have contests (putting, target, etc.) to push each other to improve. •[Lauren] – Provide positive encouragement while helping each person reach their goals. How has traveling and playing golf together strengthened your support team (your family)? •[All] – We all have something in common that we share. Even though we argue and fight at times, we have a bond through golf that we will always share. Golf is a life long

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game and we can always enjoy a round together as a family for many years to come. What does being a member of Youth on Course mean to each of you? •[Christian, Grace, Lauren] – It means a lot. It’s helped us play together and enjoy the time we spend on the golf course. It also gives us an opportunity to play courses that we would not normally be able to play. What has been your favorite memory together? •[Christian, Grace Lauren] – Last year when we traveled to Palm

Springs to play golf and picking up a puppy along the way. We’ve been bugging our parents for a puppy and my dad found a yellow lab that we had a chance to adopt on our way to Palm Springs. On our way back home, we also got a chance to play Spanish Bay. Do you have any advice for other families or siblings who are interested in playing golf? •[Christian] – Start with lessons. You’ll enjoy the game much more if you are able to hit the ball consistently. Also join YOC so you can see where you can play. •[Grace] – Golf is like life. Have fun and enjoy the journey. •[Lauren] - Get started with family. It’s fun to play together as a family. Lee children while playing at Spanish Bay

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By David R. Holland www.golfvacationsmag.com

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COTTSDALE, AZ - Many have said the blueprint for desert golf was made when Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish designed Troon North Monument Course back in 1989. The late Morrish subsequently downplayed that by saying he thought target-golf standards were set by Jack Nicklaus’ Desert Highlands and then Troon Country Club, a Weiskopf-Morrish private course. I really don’t care. What I care about is the pleasure it is to step on the grounds at Troon North. And when you top it off with a stay at nearby Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North you have one fine vacation. I love the way Weiskopf was inspired by Alister MacKenzie, not by Augusta National, but by Ohio State’s Scarlet Course, where he played collegiate golf. I look forward to the drivable par fours he designs on every course and trying to figure out what “gotcha” element he is presenting. I enjoy his approach to bunkering – putting as many on the left side of the fairways as the right. And that his bunkers are used in three schemes – as aiming points, as hazards to avoid and in strategy where they may save you from OB or water. Today, Troon North’s Monument and Pinnacle 18s keep improving. Have a chat with Mike Friend, Troon North’s Director of Sales, and you know wheels are churning. “Last summer we had a three-month project to update the Monument’s greens and bunkers and this year we will do the same for the Pinnacle side, which will close June 5 and reopen October 5 after over-seeing,” Friend said. The goalsBluffs of both projects -- greens resurfaced with Arcadia The Lodge creeping A4 bent grass and collars resurfaced with TifGrand semi-dwarf Bermuda grass. Bunker renovations updated drainage in all greenside and fairway bunkers, new bunker liners and new Pioneer bunker sand. Monument updated green complexes to their original shape, size and contours by utilizing GPS coordinates gathered from Weiskopf’s original design. “We are committed to providing our guests with the finest course conditions on the planet at our flagship facility,” said Dana Garmany, chairman and chief executive officer, Troon. “Through these green and bunker enhancements on Monument, we are proactively improving and reinvesting in one of the top daily-fee courses in the nation. We plan to execute a similar improvement project on the Pinnacle course next summer (2018) to keep both courses at the top in a competitive marketplace.” Friend was also excited for a new fleet of golf boards and club cars with the premium bucket seats, usb ports and spots for Bluetooth speakers. “We are also in discussion for Shark Experience, which would make our excellence in customer service second to none,” he said. “And many people don’t know we are one only a few in the valley still with bent putting surfaces.” First-time golfers will find these 36 holes beautiful,

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Golf Vacations â&#x20AC;¢ June 2018 19

distracting and tough. When a helicopter made an emergency landing one summer on green of The Monument hole of Troon North’s Monument Course, it was just a little ironic. Imagine the golfers dismay. This par-5, 564-yarder requires you to dodge a giant boulder anchored in the middle of the fairway 262 yards from the Black Tees. Now here’s a dragon fly looking machine in the way on the approach to the green. There are enough obstacles on this 36-hole desert idol to target golf to raise your score. Imagine trying to make a putt, jumping the runners of this wounded ‘copter. During construction the crews kept trying to move The Monument, but thankfully they gave up when the City of Scottsdale put up a squawk wanting it to be left alone. Weiskopf and Morrish said “fine” and it was incorporated into the hole. The Monument Course stretches to 7,039 yards and a par 72. The Pinnacle Course is 7,009 yards and par 71. Both courses will challenge you with arroyos, natural washes, huge saguaros, mesquite, ironwood and lush green fairways, some hidden behind boulders, high-lipped bunkers and mounds. Then there’s the huge, tricky greens -- many tees seem to be pedestals perched above the fairways. Rankings? You bet -- the Monument is No. 58 on Golf Digest’s top 100 public courses and Pinnacle is No. 28. The 37,000-square foot Troon North Clubhouse houses The Dynamite Grille, a casual contemporary bar and grill was recently renovated. Troon North has an outstanding golf shop, golf instruction, locker rooms and banquet, conference and catering facilities. Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North Pinnacle Peak is also your view from the Four Seasons Scottsdale, on the site a scene from the movie Raising Arizona was filmed. The worldclass resort opened its door on December 22, 1999, and it completed the Troon North complex as a world-class resort. My adobe casita was awesome – just steps away from pool and hot tub I used in the early morning hours. For breakfast at Proof I loved the Green Chile Pork Benedict: Poached Eggs, Green Chile Pork, English Muffin, Jalapeno Hollandaise, Avocado, Hash Browns With Tomato Bacon Jam. For dinner at Talavera it was 8-ounce C.A.B. Filet with black garlic, caramelized onion, olive, and manchego. Dessert? Cinnamon Churros with warm chocolate dipping sauce, saffron. Now that’s living the good life in Scottsdale.

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Golf Vacations â&#x20AC;¢ June 2018 21

California Cool

PALM DESERT DELIGHT

22 Golf Vacations â&#x20AC;¢ June 2018

HOTE

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EL PASEO

by Terry Ross

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Desert Willow - photo by Chris Miller

Golf Vacations â&#x20AC;¢ June 2018 23

hile the Palm Springs region of the Southern California desert has long-been a popular vacation favorite for golfers and anyone else looking for a laid-back atmosphere to get away, the City of Palm Desert has grown into the hub of this Coachella Valley area as the central city for not only golf, but everything from shopping, art galleries, fine dining and any number of events. The El Paseo area of Palm Desert--which has become famous as a world-class shopping and dining venue along this one-mile stretch that has been called the Rodeo Drive of the Desert—has become the cultural, commercial and night life capital of this area. And now the last remaining element has come on board to make this a truly unique vacation spot. The Hotel Paseo, which just opened its doors this past spring, has brought a splash of style and luxury to the El Paseo area that hasn’t been seen before in terms of lodging accommodations, and is being called the first luxury hotel to open in the city in at least 30 years. It is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection of boutique properties. In its effort to embrace this entertainment district of over 250 shops, restaurants, art galleries, jewelry stores, beauty salons, home furnishing stores and more, Hotel Paseo is Hotel Paseo Backyard Lawn

located near the eastern end of this unique and popular area and is within easy walking distance of just about any of these attractions. Saks Fifth Avenue, Tumi, Gucci and St. Johns are among the shops; along with Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Tommy Bahama, Pacifica Seafood Restaurant, Mastro’s and Le Paon Restaurant—just to name a few. For those less inclined to walk, the hotel even offers its guests a Mercedes shuttle to just about anywhere you want to go within the area. The pedestrian-friendly feel of this venue—even in the middle of a desert oasis--is attracting visitors of all ages, but so is the mid-century modern design of the hotel and grounds that this desert has become famous for. From the time you arrive at the hotel framed by two powering palm trees rising through the angular portecochère that fits right in with the desert’s retro look, to the lobby featuring a rotating art gallery and vintage art pieces, you feel like you are in an extension of the El Paseo desert vibe. One of the unique features of the Hotel Paseo is the Backyard Lawn that is a great place to relax during the day or after sundown during the soothing desert nights. In addition to a putting green, there is the hotel’s vintage 1950 Airstream trailer featuring stainless-steel appliances, an eight-foot reclaimed black walnut bar and porch with lounge chairs--that has been restored and will be available as one of nine specialty suites in the 150-room hotel. Next to the BackYard Lawn is the crystal blue pool and spa, private cabanas with televisions, snacks and refrigerators and the Lemondrop pool-side cabana bar. There is even an outdoor stage for weekend entertainment with A/V capabilities for live musical performances. Interactive games are also available. This is a great area to relax after a round of golf and enjoy the tranquility that the desert offers. Another way to relax is in the newly-opened Spa LA LÉ, an intimate space with seven treatment rooms, private showers, lounge and co-ed Discovery Relaxation Room. Under the guidance of Executive Spa Director Stella Chung, Spa LA LÉ offers an array of resultsoriented treatments, including organic facials, full body treatments, couple’s massages, nail and waxing services in a 3,000 square-foot-complex. The resort rooms are expertly adorned in modern artwork by local artists and feature a soothing pallet of gray, white and light blue tones—and have all the comforts of home. The Oasis guestrooms feature freestanding, oval-shaped soaking tubs, while the specialty suites include the Billiards Suite, offering a pool table, wet bar, lounge area and a Shinola Runwell record player complete with a curated collection of old and new vinyl; along with the Grand Desert Suite featuring a motorized expandable boardroom table for intimate meetings.

Hotel Paseo Guestroom

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All of the guestrooms and suites have 55” smart televisions with Netflix, Hulu Plus, Pandora and YouTube, while most rooms have private balconies overlooking the picturesque views of the San Jacinto Mountains and valley palms.

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Spa LA TE Treatment Room (right) AC3 Restaurant + Bar The AC3 Restaurant + Bar located next to the lobby of the Hotel Paseo has already became a favorite spot for both locals and travelers in the short time it has been open with its emphasis on American cuisine. Under the direction of co-owners Tony Marchese and celebrated chef Andrew Copley and his wife Juliana, who are all longtime veterans of the restaurant business in the desert and beyond, they have begun to carve out their place in the busy El Paseo neighborhood with favorite dishes like Jumbo Crab Cakes, the AC3 Wedge, the Lobster Hash and fresh steaks. Other menu highlights include starters like Seafood Ceviche with coconut, lime, jalapeno, corn and fried corn chips; or Blistered Shishito Peppers with Firecracker Sauce and sesame seeds; followed by options like Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast with brown butter panzanella, heirloom tomatoes, zucchini and basil vinaigrette. The modern-design and the free-flowing nature of this indoor-outdoor bar lends itself to the desert lifestyle with misters, fire pits and mountain views to go with an array of cocktail innovations, local craft beers and a wine list featuring select bottles from family-owned vineyards such as Lewis Cellars in Napa Valley and Foxtrot in British Columbia, Canada. Happy Hour is a favorite time here – and one of the highlights after a day on the links. Hotel Paseo has embraced the golf traveler in many ways, but its partnership with city-owned Desert Willow Golf Resort--that is just over three miles away-- in providing door-to-door transportation and preferred tee times to what is arguably one of the premier places to play in a valley filled with great golf options--is a real plus. From the time your driver takes you from the hotel to the Desert Willow complex, you feel like you are getting the white glove treatment. With the spectacular club house at Desert Willow to the two championship golf courses designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry and PGA Tour Professional John Cook, a day spent here is indeed a treat. Of the two courses at Desert Willow, the Firecliff opened in 1997 with great fanfare with a tournament that included former President Gerald Ford. Of the two it is considered the more challenging layout as it winds through the picturesque desert landscape that expertly blends native desert plants and lush green fairways. The Firecliff can be played from five sets of tees, ranging from 7,056 to 5,079, depending on your skill level. The newer Mountain Course was designed to be a transition between the Firecliff’s desertscape look and the traditional fence to fence turfgrass look. It is more user friendly than the Firecliff but still has plenty of challenges from 6,913 yards and a slope rating from the Black Tees of 132. It also offers five sets of tees to accommodate many

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skill levels and can also be played from the Green Tees at 5,040 yards. This course offers more water features, but like its sister course is always found in top playing condition—no matter what time of year. The plush club house has several dinning and postround refreshment options available, including the Terrace Restaurant, which offers excellent lunch fair, along with Cook’s Grill and the Vista Bar. And of course, your concierge/driver to take you back to the hotel is just a phone call away—with all the amenities that Hotel Paseo and the and the El Paseo entertainment district has to offer. Just as the hotel asks its guests to “find their own path,” there are a lot of paths to follow on a vacation here. To learn more about the Hotel Paseo and golf packages or to look at vacation options, visit: www. hotelpaseo.com

An Exclusive for Golf Vacations Magazine Readers Experience Golf in the Desert package – Available now until August 30, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at the hotel’s exclusive partner Desert Willow Golf Resort, including a cart with GPS and range balls; overnight accommodations in Hotel Paseo’s modern guestrooms; and a $25 credit to AC3 Restaurant + Bar. Package rates start at $199 per night and can be booked online at: https://www.marriott.com/ reservation/availability. mi?propertyCode=CTDAK&cc=GPF Golf Vacations • June 2018 25

SWEETSTUFF Puma Spring-Summer Collection-2018

obra Puma Golf has unveiled its Spring summer collection for 2018 and is taking a cue from the golfer who wants his wardrobe to be as functional off the golf course as on it. Featuring fresh, fashionable patterns, a versatile color palette and cutting-edge technical elements that are designed to enhance on-course performance and provide looks that turn heads whether golfers are in bunkers or at the bar, the new collection takes Puma in directions that will appeal to many different tastes. “Puma Golf’s Spring Summer ‘18 Collection was largely inspired by fashion trends mainly seen outside of the golf category,” said Kristin Hinze, Global Head Golf Apparel, Puma Golf. “We have taken ideas such as allover-prints and made that trend applicable to performance golf apparel, ensuring that consumers have everything they need to look great and play great.” The new patterns and styling take the best of some of the most trending looks and blend them with the kind of sophistication that most players enjoy. The new collection builds upon Puma’s offering of Evoknit pieces with a broader assortment of apparel and accessory pieces for men. Evoknit is a knitted design that utilizes body mapped ventilation, strategically placed rib panels and seamless engineering for unrestricted range of motion. The moisture-wicking, highly breathable fabric provides extreme comfort and breathability. The relaxed fit through the shoulders, chest and sleeves provide comfort and freedom of motion during the swing. Puma will offer its Evoknit technology in two fashionable short-sleeved tops --Evoknit Seamless Polo and Evoknit Block Seamless Polo. The Evoknit Block Seamless Polo is a new offering and introduces three fresh colors in Evoknit gear --Paradise Pink, Marina and Acid Lime--to complement the popular Peacoat and Quiet Shade that was introduced earlier this year. The Evoknit Seamless Polo is a carryover piece and will be offered in Electric Blue Lemonade, Black and Quarry shades this season. Two of the best illustrations of the collection featuring all-over-prints designed for golf are the PWRCOOL Digital Camo Polo and Botanic Polo. The PWRCOOL Digital Camo Polo, using a highly functional material that draws sweat away from the skin while anatomically placed air flow features provide superior temperature regulation, is designed to keep the body at its optimal temperature to preserve energy during the round. The PWRCOOL Digital Camo Polo is available in Peacoat/Electric Blue Lemonade, Bright White/Marina and Quiet Shade/ Bright White colorways this Spring. Puma’s Botanic Polo features a handsome all-over floral print in Bright White/ Quarry and Quiet Shade/Quarry color flows. The Botanic Polo utilizes PUMA’s proprietary DryCell Technology for the ultimate in sweat-wicking performance. UPF 40 UV protection is another feature.

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Puma’s basics polo has been updated with stylish details such as a heathered look added to the popular Oxford Polo, and the Pounce Aston Polo being treated with a textured high-low stripe tonal design, creating an ‘unsolid, solid look” and providing new flair to an old favorite. The Pounce Aston Polo is available in a wide range of eyepopping colors – Electric Blue Lemonade, Lemon Tonic, Paradise Pink, Marina, Acid Lime, High Risk Red, Peacoat, Vibrant Orange, Quarry and Bright White. For bottoms, Puma has continued some significant changes for this season with its shorts and golf pants lineup. The popular Essential Pounce Shorts, a customer favorite, will be available in 10 eye-catching hues, offering the perfect complement to PUMA’s new polos. Puma’s designers are also breathing fresh ideas into the brand’s popular 6-pocket pants, adding a Heather 6 Pocket Pant and Heather 6 Pocket Short selections, as well. The new pants and shorts offer excellent moisture management, improved fit, a rebalanced pattern, curved stretch waistband featuring PWRSTRETCH for comfort and mechanical stretch for maximum range of motion. These, and a full range of new outwear pieces and accessories are available at select retailers and on line. For more information, visit: www.cobragolf.com/pumagolf/collections/ss18

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SWEETSTUFF by Terry Ross

PeakVision

veryone likes a comeback story. Just as Tiger Woods is doing just that on the course—one sunglass company that has been a staple in the golf world for several years is doing that in the sports eyewear field. PeakVision sunglasses, which owns a patent on one of the more innovative technologies in golf sunglasses, had landed on hard times when David Feaser of Conway, South Carolina, purchased the assets of the company a year ago and re-built the brand to the point where it is bigger and better than ever. The company was even named one of the nine best products earlier this year at the annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Feaser, who has a 30-year career in the sunglass industry, remade the company in South Carolina and brought his son—Nicholas—on board as National Sales Manager, while veteran sports broadcaster Ann Liguori has signed on as a brand ambassador. The patented Dual-Zone lens that has been a favorite of golfers for years, which incorporates two different technologies that feature multiple color management filters, is at the heart of these sunglasses designed just for golfers. The upper zone of the lens is darker, manages bright sun and glare while eliminating distortion and maintaining accurate depth perception. The lower zone is a high contrast amber tint that enhances the green contrast and the ability to read contours while putting. The flagship golf sunglass for PeakVision is the GX5 that has a full wrap-around sports design with adjustable nose pads and co-injected rubber temple grip. It is a lightweight, durable style that fits nicely and best of all, is distortion free. As a contrast to the GX5’s sporty look, PeakVision’s new models, the DG1 and the AV1 offer a different look. They both have the same Dual-Zone lens. The DG1 is a wayfarer design and made of the strong, ultralight Ultematter (titanium polymer), which weighs only 19 grams. “Our glasses have no distortion and we have been very popular with both caddies and players on the professional tours,” noted Feaser. “Our proprietary lens material is equivalent to the optical clarity of Crown Glass. And unlike polarized lenses, the image is not flattened out and you get real depth perception.

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“Let’s face it,” Feaser continued. “Your round is won or lost on the green-- so if you can save one or more strokes off your game, who wouldn’t want to try these sunglasses? Most golfers take their sunglasses off or put them on their hats or head while they putt. Your eyes during that moment are adjusting to more visual information, which makes putting even more difficult. With our sunglasses, it provides a continuity of visual information and you don’t have to take the sunglasses off. In fact, you’ll want to leave them on!” Feaser noted that Chip Beck, the second golfer ever to shoot a 59 in a PGA Tour event and now a member of the Champions Tour, is now an endorser and raves about the clarity of the lenses while playing. “PeakVision is the only sunglass that I’ve ever used playing golf because they have no distortion on the putting green,” said the 4-time PGA Tour winner and 3-time Ryder Cup player. “They are truly the best!” The company is also producing a line for Jack Nicklaus called the Nicklaus One. PeakVision offers a 30-day, moneyback guarantee if not 100 percent satisfied. For more information: www.peakvision.com

Puma PWRADAPT Footwear

any golf instructors will tell their students that for maximum swing efficiency, players need to feel a connection with the ground—and to use that as the basis for a good swing. Of course, this starts with the feet, and feeling that connection with the turf is vitality important for this concept. The new Ignite PWRADAPT collection of golf shoes by Puma takes this concept to an all-new level with three models that make you feel connected to the ground in a way that no other shoe has. This is a shoe that feels more like a glove than a shoe and fits like one as you slip it on. It is exceptionally soft--but is built rugged and with enough support to withstand the torque of the golf swing. The new Ignite PWRADAPT collection presents three new designs (Ignite PWRADAPT—lace-up; Ignite PWRADAPT—disc tightening system and Ignite PWRADAPT--leather) to provide golfers with state-of-the-art technology, comfort and stability in three stylish silhouettes. Each of the models in the family utilizes PUMA Golf’s proprietary PWRADAPT sole technology that introduces revolutionary threedimensional traction pods and responsive cushioning with Ignite Foam, utilized in the entire length of the midsole for the first time in a cleated shoe, for the ideal blend of technology, style and performance. PUMA’s Ignite Foam is an ultra-responsive cushioning foam with incredible energy return properties for comfort, support and stability, while the PWRADAPT pods provide ground-grabbing traction and enhanced comfort from tee-to-green, with every move a player makes. The new comfort construction mesh bootie replaces a traditional tongue for improved fit, comfort and support, while the PWRFRAME, an ultra-thin TPU frame, is strategically placed in high stress areas on the shoe’s upper for lightweight support and enhanced stability. “Without question, our new Ignite PWRADAPT collection is the most technologically-advanced golf shoes we’ve ever made,” said Grant Knudson, Global Head of Footwear & Accessories, Puma Golf. “Not only will golfers experience unrivaled traction and

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SWEETSTUFF

Puma’s proprietary Disc tightening system delivers ultimate convenience with a micro-adjusting dial system that quickly and easily secures golfers’ feet for a locked-in, consistent and custom fit that can be adjusted on the fly during a round. They are available in the same on-trend colors and sizes. The new Ignite PWRADAPT Leather shoes offer sophisticated style and crazy comfort with a premium full-grain leather upper combined with a mesh hybrid bootie lining for an ideal fit. It is available in classic white/white and black/black colorways in sizes 7-14. Each of the three styles comes with a two-year waterproof warranty. For more information, visit: www.cobragolf.com/ pumagolf/men/shoes

Titleist’s New Velocity Ball

comfort thanks to our PWRADAPT pods, but the fit, feel and the overall design of the shoes are truly game-changing. Our goal each season is to provide the perfect blend of style and performance –and with our new PWRADAPT cleated footwear we’ve done just that.” Each of the models in the collection utilizes premium Aniline Leather accents for added style, as well as some discoverable design elements including a unique sock liner that features a map of Carlsbad, highlighting Cobra Puma Golf headquarters, the exact location where the shoe was designed. The Ignite PWRADAPT is available in three stylish colorways (Quiet Shade/Quite Shade, Black/White and Peacoat/White) and come in sizes 7-14. Like the traditional lace version, the Ignite PWRADAPT Disc utilizes the same blend of Foam technologies to deliver multi-surface comfort and enhanced stability. However,

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mong its new offerings, Titleist has re-engineered its Velocity golf ball to provide even more distance than previous versions of this model—and even added a dash of color for those players looking for something other than the traditional white golf ball. Velocity has been reengineered with a softer high-speed core and Titleist’s fastest cover blend ever to deliver extremely low spin and fast ball speed off the tee for increased distance. Velocity’s advanced aerodynamics produce a high flight on all shots to enhance distance and help golfers stop the ball closer to the hole. For a distance ball Velocity demonstrates good feel and stopping power on the green for those scoring shots. “Everything we do with Velocity is to generate speed and distance,” said Michael Mahoney, Vice President, Titleist Golf Ball Marketing. “When we spoke to Velocity golfers at the beginning of the development process, they told us they wanted even more distance, especially off the tee. Our R&D team responded with new core technology and the fastest cover of any Titleist golf ball on the market to give them that added advantage.” Included in the new technology of the Velocity is the softer, high speed LSX core that produces fast initial velocity with extremely low spin for deep downrange distance on all full swing shots. The new, faster NaZ+ cover also provides higher ball speed for longer distance. A spherically-tiled 328 tetrahedral dimple design optimizes Velocity’s aerodynamic performance, producing high flight and long carry for shots that fly far, but also land more softly on the green. The new color options for Velocity include standard White plus three new high-visibility colors – VISI-White, Velocity Orange and Velocity Pink. VISI-White also features an orange side stamp and double-digit play numbers (00, 22, 77, 99). The double-digit play numbers were selected based on their popularity among members of Team Titleist. “We’ve seen an increasing preference among golfers in general to play products that they truly identify with and color is a big part of that,” said Michael Fish, Titleist Golf Ball Product Manager. “We’re confident the improved performance of Velocity with new color options will only make the game more enjoyable for these golfers.” For more information: www.titleist.com/golf-balls/velocity

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SWEETSTUFF Golf Pride Adds Technology to Popular Grip

olf Pride, which has produced the most popular golf club grip on all global tours for many years with its Tour Velvet model, has now added its new Align technology that the company introduced last year to this well-known model to give it a makeover that should even increase its popularity. The proprietary Align Technology, which was first introduced in the flagship MCC and MCC Plus4 grip families, features a dedicated raised ridge that extends down the back of the grip for consistent hand placement allowing a golfer increased clubface awareness throughout the swing and at impact. The technology also features a unique micro-diamond texture and firmer material compared to the surrounding grip area to amplify its pronounced feel. A flex channel separates the Align

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Technology ridge from the grip body to maximize elevation lift and lock the grip into the fingers, while conforming to the rules of golf. Tour Velvet is the #1 grip played on all global Tours, with nearly 50% of the field in any given event choosing to rely on its proprietary feel and proven “plus-sign” texture performance. Introducing the Align Technology to the Tour Velvet may appear straightforward on the surface; however, adding this innovative technology to the gold standard of tour performance grips proved to be more intricate for the company. Golf Pride engineers produced breakthrough advancements in both material and process developments, while ensuring its same feel and performance. “We received incredible feedback from Tour players and amateurs last year about our MCC ALIGN and MCC Plus4 ALIGN grips, and we even saw a major victory in the first week the technology was put in play on the Champions Tour,” said Jonathan Neal, global head of marketing for Golf Pride Grips. “Last year, we had a countless number of players request that we make Align Technology available in other models. While this sounds easy, bringing the product to market required state-of-the-art material development along with innovations in our manufacturing processes to ensure premium performance and quality. Our R&D team worked rigorously in the lab to ensure that a player would keep the same feel and texture they have come to love in the Tour Velvet with the added benefit that ALIGN Technology delivers. With the addition of Tour Velvet Align to this incredibly innovative family, we’ve ensured that Align Technology is offered in a diverse range of feel and performance options.” Now, with the introduction of Align in the Tour Velvet grip, three of the most preferred grip models in professional golf will all be available with this technology. For more information, visit www.golfpride.com.

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