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Chip Shots
The Phantom of the Open – Christian Lee as Gene Flitcroft and Mark Rylance as Maurice Flitcroft -- Photo by Nick Wall
Golf Travelers Sure to Love New ‘The Phantom of the Open’ Movie
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You love golf, you love short and long hauls to illustrious golf destinations, and you can’t consume enough of the sport no matter what it’s about and how it’s delivered.
Well, here’s a treat: the legendary Sony Pictures Classics is releasing a new golf movie, “The Phantom of the Open” beginning June 3 in theaters nationwide.
It’s been a long time since a decent golf movie has hit the silver screen. Thankfully, “Phantom” isn’t decent – it’s of eagle if not albatross caliber. Better yet, it’s based on a true story – really.
Simply put, you’ll immensely enjoy the film and it’ll positively remain in your mind for a long time.
Smile your way through the trailer here. It’ll cause you to hit the theater and smile your way through the storyline.
It all starts with British shipyard worker Maurice Flitcroft in the remote port town of Barrow-in-Furness, England. After receiving a pink slip, the 46-year-old serendipitously catches, on his not-soclear color TV, Tom Watson holing out on No. 18 to win a playoff at the 1975 Open Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links.
Despite being down on his luck, the eternal optimist with nary a clue sets his sights on winning the Open Championship. Problem is he’s never picked up a golf club, doesn’t know the first thing about the game and doesn’t look the part either.
Gaming clubs from his “boss” and pseudo-golf attire from, well, “wherever,” our dreamer practices – and practices some more – on everything from your proverbial goat farm course to a beach. Shots frequently go wayward, less often straight.
Maurice completes an application for the 1976 Open Championship qualifying tournament. He harmlessly checks the “professional” box because the “amateur” box requires a handicap which he doesn’t have. Open Championship administrator, the Royal & Ancient, commits a faux pas and Maurice is shockingly invited to qualify.
Naturally, he doesn’t belong and proceeds to shoot a recordhigh 121. Normal people would be self-conscious of such an abhorrent showing, but not the calm and collected Maurice. He was at peace with doing the best he could.
The big number, and the gaunt, bucket-hat, argyle-vested and mostly disheveled-looking Maurice became a star not just in his kingdom, but internationally. The headlines were full of applause, admonishment and cleverness. Lo and behold, Blythefield Country Club in Grand Rapids. Michigan, flew Maurice and family over the pond to christen the inaugural “Maurice Flitcroft World’s Worst Golfer” tournament.
Even his wife, Jean (played by Golden Globes winner Sally Hawkins) is naïve about the sport. When informed of Maurice’s 121, she seriously asks: “does that mean he’s won?”
Oscar winner Mark Rylance brilliantly plays the proud Maurice whose relationships with Jean, his corporate ladder-climbing son and his disco-fanatical twin sons re hilarious and endearing. The importance of family values is in full force.
This is a film for everyone, not just golfers. It ranks high with men and women who wouldn’t know the difference between Davis Love and Courtney Love. In that vein, call “Phantom” a dramedy filled with a slew of funny, emotional and inspiring moments.
By the way, for you golf-obsessed historians, Johnny Miller won the 1976 Open Championship by four strokes over Jack Nicklaus and a then 19-year-old Seve Ballesteros who is portrayed in “Phantom” in a memorable scene with Maurice.
PGA National
‘New’ PGA National Resort Offers Exceptional Golf Getaways
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – PGA National Resort – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation, culinary, events and spa destination – is offering an extraordinary set of stay-and-play packages perfect for family and group golf vacations to long savor.
The dramatic “new” PGA National Resort is currently unveiling the stunning results of its recent $100 million transformation. As part of the substantial investment, guests can now enjoy reimagined guestrooms inspired by a theme of “1960s Pam Beach chic” as well as spacious villas, six exciting new culinary concepts, and a host of superlative amenities.
The legendary South Florida destination boasts the famed Champion Course (host venue of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic) as well as three additional “traditional” 18s (The Palmer, The Fazio and The Estate courses) and two new bold and innovative Andy Staples designs – The Match Course (18 holes) and The Staple Course (nine holes).
The “Game Changer” package starts at $667 (per person, per day, double occupancy) and includes a minimum two-night stay with accommodations in a beautifully-transformed guestroom, suite, or a spacious cottage as well as one round each on The Match and The Staple. The offer also features one additional round on either The Champion Course (with surcharge), The Palmer Course (with surcharge), The Estate Course or a replay round on The Match Course. All cart fees are included except for the walking-only Staple Course.
Starting at $836 (per person, per day, double occupancy), the “Leadbetter Family Golf” package includes one round of golf daily on either The Palmer, The Fazio, The Match or The Estate layouts with first-class accommodations and a minimum two-night stay. Ideal for golfers of any and all abilities, this exciting offer also features three hours of daily instruction at the renowned David Leadbetter Golf Academy.
PGA National Resort’s “Gold Golf” package starts at $511 (per person, per day, double occupancy) and includes one round of golf daily on The Fazio, The Match, The Estate, The Champion (with surcharge) or The Palmer (with surcharge) courses along with luxury accommodations. Guests can also take advantage of unlimited range balls as well as access to the state-of-the-art Sports & Racquet Club.
The Staple at PGA National Resort - No. 2
“With our exceptional stay-and-play packages and a dramatic revitalization of the entire property, the time has never been better to visit PGA National Resort,” says Jane Broderick, director of golf. “Golf groups of all abilities can savor play on our traditional 18s and experience the exciting new Match and Staple Courses that have garnered rave reviews since debuting last year.”
A golf lover’s dream location, PGA National Resort features extraordinary instruction at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, Dave Pelz Scoring Game School and Full Process Golf – the world’s first science-based and statistical data-driven training system for golf improvement – located at its off-site Estate Course. PGA National Resort additionally offers state-of-the-art club fitting.
For more information about PGA National Resort: visit www. pgaresort.com or call 800.863.2819.
Central Oregon Proves There’s More To Oregon Golf Than Bandon Dunes
SUNRIVER, OR — It’s widely known that Oregon is home to some of the greatest public golf courses in the country, if not the world. The acclaim and fanfare of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort are a big reason for this reputation, but long before its existence golfers were making their way to another popular Oregon golf destination – Central Oregon.
With nearly 30 golf courses, including three in Golf Digest’s Top 100 (#40 – Pronghorn, #61 – Crosswater, #82 – Tetherow), and a diversity in course design that is rare, Central Oregon has long been considered among the top destinations in the country for a golf trip.
“In terms of variety, playability, accessibility, weather, and course conditions, Central Oregon has to be at or near the top of any golfer’s bucket list of destinations,” says Julia Theisen, president & CEO of Visit Central Oregon. “I often tell people that the fact that David McLay Kidd, who has designed some of the world’s top courses including the original Bandon Dunes course and Central Oregon favorite Tetherow, lives here is testament enough to the quality of play and supporting cast of activities.”
Central Oregon is blessed with a consistent abundance of sunshine given its location on the drier and higher eastern side of the Cascade Mountains. During Central Oregon’s famously mild summer, when average high temperatures settle in the low-80s, it’s common to golf, bike, and fly fish in the same day. Early season visitors even have an opportunity to accomplish the rare double feat of skiing and golfing in the same day, as the ski season at nearby Mt. Bachelor typically runs through Memorial Day.
Anchored by the outdoor lover’s paradise of Bend, Central Oregon is home to Championship designs spread throughout the region. That includes the PGA Tour pedigree of Sunriver Resort’s three courses, including Crosswater - a Top 100 mainstay, plus the Jack Nicklaus course at Pronghorn Resort and the David McLay-Kidd (who calls Bend home) gem of Tetherow. Other notable offerings include the player-friendly design of Brasada Ranch, the municipal masterpiece of Juniper Golf Course, the volcanic crushed red cinder bunkers at Aspen Lakes, and the mountain golf designs of Robert Muir Graves and John Fought (redesign) at Black Butte Ranch.
Of course, golf is not all that makes for a great golf trip in Central Oregon, home to nearly 40 breweries, many wineries and tasting rooms, distilleries, and cideries, as well as a creative culinary scene that includes everything from fine dining to an eclectic food truck culture.
“Despite the many challenges brought about by the pandemic, it was surprisingly good for the game of golf as record numbers of people either returned to the game or took it up for the first time,” says Theisen. “As these and other golfers return to traveling this year, we’re confident they’ll find the variety of courses, surrounding natural beauty, and abundance of outdoor recreation give Central Oregon all the makings of the perfect golf trip.”
For more information on Central Oregon golf, activities, lodging, and experiences, visit www.VisitCentralOregon.com.
Palm Beach Gardens, Fl – The board of Nicklaus Companies today announced the appointment of Phil Cotton as Chief Executive Officer. An experienced sports industry business leader, Phil will succeed John Reese, who is transitioning to Vice Chairman at Nicklaus Companies after more than 10 years as CEO.
Reporting to Executive Chairman, Howard Milstein, Phil will oversee the existing businesses and teams of Nicklaus Brands, Nicklaus Design as well as all corporate relationships and new business opportunities. Phil will work closely with business heads Andy O’Brien, President of Nicklaus Brands, and Paul Stringer, President of Nicklaus Design.
Phil, a highly experienced senior executive in the sports and entertainment industry, has a successful track-record spanning over 20 years in the UK, Europe and North America. Working for some of the world’s top athletes, brands and agencies, career highlights include spearheading the technology giant SAP’s golf sponsorship portfolio for their agency, as well as leading the business interests of four-time major winner Ernie Els for over a decade.
“The team has had first-hand experience working with Phil over a number of years and we are excited to be bringing him inhouse to lead the business into a new era, building on the excellent foundations that John has laid,” commented the Chairman of Nicklaus Companies, Howard Milstein.
“Phil’s breadth and depth of knowledge within the global golf industry is second to none and this, coupled with his demonstrable commitment to innovation and excellence, makes him the perfect fit to drive forward the Nicklaus business,” he added.
Phil Cotton, incoming Chief Executive Officer of Nicklaus Companies, commented: “It is a huge honor to be leading the team at Nicklaus Companies. Jack has matched his on-course achievements with both his business and philanthropic endeavors and I am excited to have the opportunity to harness the great talent that we have within the business to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, and to ensure that the Nicklaus name remains synonymous with quality, excellence and innovation.”
“I am also looking forward to working closely with the 8AM Golf group - a network of industry leading companies that provides us with a truly unique platform to help clients directly access a huge, highly-engaged global golf audience,” he added.
Phil Cotton
Omni Amelia Island Resort Debuts ‘Little Sandy’ Short Course
AMELIA ISLAND, FL – Omni Amelia Island Resort – the oceanfront destination nestled on 1,350 acres at the tip of a barrier island off the northeast Florida coast – has opened Little Sandy, the resort’s unique and entertaining 10-hole, par-3 course, and an accompanying 18hole putting course.
Open to resort guests and members of The Amelia Island Club, Little Sandy features holes ranging from 70 to 125 yards. Playing through a picturesque lowland oak marsh habitat, the course seeks to provide a traditional, yet fun-focused golf experience for all ages and abilities.
Conveniently situated in the resort’s amenity core and nestled around Red Maple Lake, Little Sandy offers an idyllic setting as nearly all holes are played along the water amid sandy native grass areas, dunes, and diverse wildlife habitat. Designed to be played in little more than an hour, Little Sandy provides stand-alone fun, or it can be enjoyed after a round at Omni Amelia Island Resort’s revered 18-hole Oak Marsh course.
The newly constructed check-in location for Little Sandy features a shop with logoed merchandise and a food-and-beverage outlet offering comfortable seating on an expansive shaded porch overlooking the golf course.
Designed by Beau Welling Design, Little Sandy promotes camaraderie and community. Playability and an easy-going atmosphere will appeal to golfers of all skill levels while also offering strategic tests on bold, contoured greens. The design firm is also working on other Omni projects such as Omni PGA Frisco Resort which, when it opens in Spring 2023, will become the “Modern Home of American Golf.”
“Our golf experience is more welcoming than ever for all who stay with us on Amelia Island,” says Theo Schofield, Managing Director, Omni Amelia Island Resort. “We could not imagine a better complement to our championship layout, Oak Marsh, and we look forward to all guests enjoying Little Sandy as an entertaining and unique alternative.”
Completed in 1972, Oak Marsh Golf Course was designed by legendary architect Pete Dye. The layout is noted for its tight fairways and small greens, meandering along serpentine salt marsh creeks and through moss draped heritage oaks for which Amelia Island is famous.
“We are honored to have worked on Little Sandy with our partners at Omni,” says designer Beau Welling. “We have created a course where players could use just their putters on nearly every hole or use several clubs in their bag, if desired. The relaxed atmosphere and golf course strategy that includes multiple routes from tee-togreen will make Little Sandy a haven for fun and creativity.”
Omni Amelia Island Resort offers oceanfront accommodations with unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean, world-class resort pools, championship golf and a full-service spa. With 3.5 miles of pristine beach, Amelia Island’s preserved marshlands and awardwinning golf, guests never run out of adventure at this one-of-a-kind destination.
For more information about Omni Amelia Island Resort or to book, visit omnihotels.com/ameliaisland. Follow Omni Amelia Island Resort at Facebook.com/OmniAmeliaIsland, and Instagram. com/OmniAmeliaIsland.
Little Sandy Short Course
Island Resort & Casino - Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Golf Destination Opens for the Season
Escanaba, MI – Island Resort & Casino, Michigan’s premier Upper Peninsula golf destination located just outside of Escanaba, will open its golf courses, weather permitting, on May 6. Home of the awardwinning Sweetgrass and Sage Run golf courses and a new $33 million renovation, the resort is primed to host golfers with new lodging, dining and gaming opportunities in 2022.
Island Resort Renovations Caters to Golfers
Golfers booking a golf vacation in 2022 will love the new hotel addition and renovations. The new tower, connected to the south end of the resort’s Palm Tower, features 138 guest rooms and suites, with some special attention for golfers who visit -- fresh, expansive golf suites. The spacious 675-square-foot suites are complete with a king, double queen and common area, all with breathtaking views of the Sweetgrass Golf Course -- perfect for foursomes seeking added space and a fun environment. Horizons Steakhouse, the new highend dining venue, located on the top floor and features some of the region’s best views. It’s the perfect gathering place for golf groups after a day on Sweetgrass or Sage Run.
Award-winning golf has become the centerpiece of the Island Resort & Casino
Designed by Paul Albanese, Sweetgrass was named the 2022 National Golf Course of the Year by the NGCOA. The prairie linksstyle course features an open layout with some of the game’s most fun greens to putt (Redan, Biarritz, Island, and Double-Green), as well as some wonderful strategic holes that include No. 15’s famous island green and spectacular finishing par-five holes on each side. The course, which hosts the Epson Tour Island Resort Championship June 24-26, is also ranked among Golfweek’s Best Courses, and has been recognized by GOLF Magazine and Golf Digest as a Best in State selection.
Sage Run, also designed by Albanese, offers a contrasting style from its sister course. Listed on Golf Digest’s prestigious “Best New Courses” list in 2019, it meanders through beautiful Upper Peninsula hardwoods, open vistas and a dramatic ridge offering a scenic variety of shots that create a thrill ride for golfers. The course annually hosts top collegiate players with the Island Resort Intercollegiate at Sage Run.
New Golf packages and suites now being booked
With the season opener approaching, now is the time for golfers to book your 2022 Spring/Summer golf packages. Led by its Sweetgrass and Sage Run courses, the resort’s fully customized packages offer 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-night lodging options with up to four golf rounds which may include two neighboring courses. Package prices range from $95$758, depending on time of year and single/double occupancy.
Golfers can combine the best in golf and sports betting
Golfers looking to combine the best in golf and sports betting, can book a golf trip around major sporting events during the spring, summer or fall. Events like the PGA Championship in May, U.S. Open and NBA Finals in June, Open Championship in August, Presidents Cup and College/NFL football in September/October are the perfect reason for a special trip! The all new Sportsbook area has become the perfect 19th hole. With over 10 kiosks to bet on sports, you can’t go wrong!
About Island Resort & Casino
Located in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula 15 minutes west of Escanaba, Island Resort & Casino is one of the Midwest’s largest golf, casino and entertainment resort destinations. Visit www. islandresortandcasino.com.
Scottsdale, AZ – May is “Player Development Month” at Troonaffiliated facilities and Troon Golf Academies around the world. Throughout the month, clubs and courses are increasing golf instruction and lesson opportunities for all levels of players, including hosting golf clinics, creating virtual/social instructional content, hosting an exciting Player Development Month Putting Challenge and more. 2022 marks the 10th year that Troon has celebrated May as Player Development Month as a way of introducing beginners to the game in a fun and educational setting, while also creating opportunities for existing players to improve.
Golf clinics vary by facility and range from free to $50 for adults, and free for juniors 17 years of age and younger. Instructional videos as well as a complete list of May Player Development golf clinics and activities are available at www.troon.com/player-development.
In addition to lessons, clinics and instructional videos, Troon offers Troon Coach, a full-service online platform where golfers can find local golf coaches, trainers and instructional events; book and pay for lessons; and track and analyze practice sessions. Golfers can learn more by clicking here.
As part of Troon Player Development Month and in an effort to encourage more putting practice, the Troon Putting Challenge will give participants the opportunity to match their putting skills against participants around the globe. The Troon Putting Challenge includes 10 total putts (three 3-foot putts, two 6-foot putts, two 10-foot putts, two 15-foot putts and one 30-foot putt) and is scored 10 points for a hole out, 5 points within 3-foot circle and 1 point within 6-foot circle. The participant who completes the Challenge (while tagging @Troon) with the highest amount of putting points throughout the month of May will receive a $250 gift card from Callaway.
For more information on Troon Player Development Month and a full list of clinics, visit www.troon.com/player-development. International greenkeepers hail new Links Course at La Hacienda
Members of the Federation of European Golf Greenkeepers Association (FEGGA) travelled from 15 countries across the globe to check out the transformation of La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort, formerly known as Alcaidesa, as part of its three-day annual conference.
FEGGA serves as the umbrella body for the national greenkeeping associations in Europe with its members and key partners gathering at La Hacienda to discuss key initiatives and challenges facing the industry, as well as learning about the multi-million investment project currently in progress at the 36-hole Spanish venue.
La Hacienda’s head greenkeeper, Raúl Tineo Brea, and course architect, Kurtis Bowman, discussed the exciting plans for the new Links Course, which has been completely reconfigured and redesigned, before attendees were able to enjoy a tour of the layout and signature holes.
As part of the conference, members also dined in Sal Verde, the recently-opened restaurant in La Hacienda’s renovated clubhouse.
Dean Cleaver, Executive Officer of FEGGA, said: “We’d like to thank La Hacienda for having us and for its exceptional hospitality.
“There’s no better compliment than from the experts of the industry and some of the best greenkeepers in Europe, and all of them had positive things to say about the facilities and new Links Course.
“We were all in agreement that it’s now going to be in the conversation for one of the best golf courses in Spain and has catapulted it into amongst Europe’s elite. We are still getting our breath back after seeing some of the stunning views over the ocean and Rock of Gibraltar!”
Located in the Cadiz municipality of San Roque, close to Sotogrande, the Links Course is scheduled to open in June 2022 and will run along the beachfront with spectacular views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and Africa.
The contemporary clubhouse, driving range and practice area have already been completed ahead of the golf course reopening this summer, while the development of a fivestar hotel with 150 rooms, halfway house with restaurant, 51 luxury villas and a beach club will mark the next phase of the project and La Hacienda’s elevation to a flagship venue and golf destination in Southern Europe.
FEGGA is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 1996 with a view of promoting the profession and helping greenkeepers through educational programmes and environmental policies, resulting in the highest standard of course conditions and professionalism across the continent.
Usga And Pebble Beach Company Announce Landmark Partnership
Building upon a nearly centurylong relationship, the United States Golf Association and Pebble Beach have forged a landmark partnership that seeks to benefit the game of golf for generations to come.
As part of the announcement, Pebble Beach will now host four future U.S. Opens (2027, 2032, 2037 and 2044) as well as four future U.S. Women’s Opens Presented by ProMedica, including its first one next year (2023, 2035, 2040 and 2048). These additional championships fulfill a common goal to ensure that both men and women have the opportunity to compete at the highest level on this iconic course. In addition, for the first time ever, the U.S. Senior Open and U.S. Senior Women’s Open will be staged backto-back at the same location in 2030, with the resort’s Spyglass Hill Golf Course serving as the host site.
“This relationship with Pebble Beach, long considered a national treasure, is a historic step forward for golf,” said USGA CEO Mike Whan. “In addition to elevating our Open championships, the USGA and Pebble Beach are committed to working together to ensure a more diverse, welcoming and accessible game. We couldn’t be more thankful for their collaboration and like-minded vision.”
“We are honored to deepen our longstanding partnership with the USGA, which will benefit the game of golf for years to come,” said Pebble Beach Company CEO David Stivers. “We are proud that Pebble Beach Golf Links was the first public golf course to host a U.S. Open in 1972, and that golfers around the world have the opportunity to play Pebble Beach and walk in the footsteps of champions. This partnership ensures that the legacy of championship golf on this historic course will continue long into the future and leave a lasting impact on the game.”
The long-term nature of the championship agreement allows the USGA and Pebble Beach Resorts to invest and collaborate in new and innovative ways to enhance the player, fan, partner and media experience.
The relationship between the USGA and Pebble Beach began in 1929 with the 33rd U.S. Amateur Championship, and the resort has played host to 13 USGA championships during its first 100 years of existence, including six U.S. Opens, five U.S. Amateurs and two U.S. Women’s Amateurs, with another 10 championships to come over the next 25 years.
U.S. Opens through the years at Pebble Beach have matched the dramatic setting. In 1972, Jack Nicklaus hit the flagstick with a 1-iron shot on No. 17 to ensure victory; in 1982, Tom Watson denied Jack a recordbreaking fifth title with his pitch-in birdie on the same hole; in 1992, veteran Tom Kite rode a pitch-in birdie on No. 7 to a wind-buffeted win; in 2000, Tiger Woods authored the most dominant victory in major-championship history in the 100th U.S. Open; in 2010, Graeme McDowell outlasted a trio of major champions, including Woods; and in 2019, Gary Woodland’s heroic 3-wood second shot on No. 14 helped him hold off Brooks Koepka’s bid for a third consecutive U.S. Open title. The 2019 championship marked Pebble Beach’s 100th anniversary.
Beyond the future championships, the USGA and Pebble Beach are developing communitybased programs to create internships and other career opportunities for the next generation of industry leaders. The expanded relationship also includes a joint initiative with the USGA’s Green Section to invest in turfgrass and water conservation through a research hub, contributing to the entities’ shared goal of creating enjoyable golf experiences that are environmentally and economically sustainable.
“Through this relationship, we aim to foster opportunities for future greats of the game, to nurture golf’s next generation of leaders and to develop new technologies for a sustainable future, all while crowning champions who will follow the legends who walked these hallowed grounds before them,” said Whan.
“Supporting youth education is a pillar of our community outreach and this partnership will greatly expand opportunities for young people to pursue a career in this industry,” said Stivers. “For over 30 years, Pebble Beach and its neighboring golf courses have operated the most successful water reclamation project on California’s Central Coast. The USGA Green Section will provide powerful new technology and research to help pioneer new innovations in water conservation.”
In an effort to return to venues with deep and meaningful USGA championship history every five to six years, Pebble Beach Resorts joins Pinehurst Resort & Country Club and Oakmont Country Club as a U.S. Open anchor site. Here is the complete list of future USGA championships at Pebble Beach:
2023 U.S. Women’s Open 2027 U.S. Open 2030 U.S. Senior Women’s Open (Spyglass Hill) 2030 U.S. Senior Open (Spyglass Hill) 2032 U.S. Open 2035 U.S. Women’s Open 2037 U.S. Open 2040 U.S. Women’s Open 2044 U.S. Open 2048 U.S. Women’s Open
Casas de Campo
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas Announces Exceptional Summer Golf Packages
LA ROMANA, Dominican Republic – Casa de Campo Resort & Villas – home to the Caribbean’s premier, luxury golf experiences, including its iconic “World Top 100” Teeth of the Dog – announces an array of exceptional summer stay-and-play packages ideal for family and golf buddy getaways.
The “Unlimited Golf with All-Inclusive” package starts at $1,259 (per room, per night). Resort guests can tee it up to their heart’s content on two renowned Pete Dye-designed gems: Dye Fore (27 holes) and The Links (18). Play on the legendary Teeth of the Dog has a preferred rate of $199 per round (plus taxes). All golf rounds are based on availability and include play on arrival and departure days.
The offer also includes deluxe accommodations in the resort’s recently renovated guest rooms, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, use of a four-passenger golf cart to internal travel throughout the 7,000acre gated property, unlimited horseback riding, use of the property’s tennis courts, one round at the 245-acre Shooting Club, non-motorized water sports, family program activities and use of the resort’s fitness center.
Casa de Campo is additionally offering its “Unlimited Golf in Villa” stay-and-play offer starting from $550 (per villa, per night). This allows groups and families the opportunity to enjoy a “world of their own” in a three- to five-bedroom luxury villa with one daily round of golf (per person) on Dye Fore and The Links. Breakfast for the group is prepared right in the villa each morning along with daily housekeeping and dedicated concierge services. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Casa de Campo is also offering the “family-friendly” opportunity for two kids or young adults (ages 17 and younger) to play golf for free when accompanied on the same rounds with their parents during resort visits. Please note, Teeth of the Dog will be closed for its annual summer maintenance from June 20 – July 31.
“We offer luxury golf getaways perfect for families, friends and groups looking to enjoy time together while savoring our worldclass amenities,” says Jason Kycek, senior vice-president of sales and marketing. “With our world-class golf courses and host of resort activities, Casa de Campo provides a wonderful opportunity to reset, enjoy time away and simply have fun in paradise.”
Villa at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
Teeth of the Dog has long 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.”
The resort’s world-class Golf Learning Center is a “must visit” when on property. Highlighted by Trackman and BODITRAK technology, it features two indoor hitting bays for rapid game improvement, yearround 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 skills as well as unlimited use of the pristine outdoor range for full shots. On-course instruction is also available.
During the COVID pandemic, the five-star resort initiated its “Casa Cares” program touching virtually every area of the property including significant investment in new equipment and employee training. The robust health and safety practices continue to remain a top priority for its guests. A full list of the measures may be found here.
For more information on Casa de Campo Resort & Villas please call 800.877.3643, email golf@ccampo.com.do or visit: www. casadecampo.com.do/.
Bigshots Golf Coming To Firestone Country Club In Akron
DALLAS, TX – BigShots Golf®, ClubCorp’s tech-driven entertainment and culinary experience offering fun for all ages and skill levels, plans to open a new facility at the renowned Firestone Country Club in fall 2022.
BigShots Golf Firestone, the seventh location nationwide, will begin construction this month. The 22,500-square-foot cutting-edge golf, dining and entertainment venue will replace Hackers Bar & Grill and be open to the public. The venue will include a two-story teeline with 44 interactive tee boxes and operate year-round, alongside Raymond C. Firestone Public 9 Golf Course.
BigShots Golf Firestone marks the first free-standing outdoor location that is connected to one of the clubs in the ClubCorp portfolio, demonstrating the company’s continued commitment to diversifying the game by making it accessible to more people.
“BigShots Golf Firestone will bring a new level of entertainment and dining to Akron,” said ClubCorp CEO David Pillsbury. “As golf continues to grow in popularity as a social, entertainment and sports endeavor, people are joining and experiencing the game in new, nonintimidating environments. BigShots Golf is leading the way with innovative technology, elevated dining and fun for the whole family.”
BigShots Golf features cutting-edge technology powered by TrackMan Range and can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. Avid golfers can play full rounds on virtual golf courses all over the world, while beginner players, families and children can take part in interactive games such as Knockout and Pinball.
The entertainment experience will include a private event space, outdoor patio and an elevated sports bar serving a menu of local favorites, signature cocktails and craft beer.
“Bringing BigShots Golf to a legendary and iconic location like Firestone Country Club is game-changing for the golf entertainment industry, as we continue to create experiences that remove the friction that can accompany introduction to this great game,” said BigShots Golf Chief Operating Officer TJ Schier. “Our concept is rooted in golf, but our passion is centered around creating exceptional experiences that bring people together through our innovative gameplay, elevated sports bar and unexpected events for the whole family. Having this location connected to Firestone Country Club allows us to transition beginners who find a passion for the game to the fairways of courses where the best in the game, like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, have triumphed.”
BigShots Golf is open in Vero Beach, Florida; Fort Worth, Texas; Springfield, Missouri; Northwick Park, UK; and Bryan, Texas. Locations are currently under development in St. George, Utah, opening spring 2022; and Naples, Florida, opening Q1 2023.
