MAY 2023
Jordan Spieth and Fred Funk could be in your next foursome. Yeah, maybe that’s a stretch, but my visit to Driftwood Ranch and Golf Club did result in a “howdy” and short pleasantry with Funk who arrived at valet parking at the same time.
22 Omni
by James McAfee
After spending three days at the newly-renovated Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, secluded on 4,000 acres in the rolling hills of Austin, Texas, in April, 2022, it’s easy to see why it was named among the top five resorts in the Southwest by Conde Nast Traveler and the top five resorts in Texas by Texas Travel + Leisure World.
28
by David Theoret
One of the biggest things the coastal North Carolina area has going for it is a fantastic climate; outdoor recreational activities can be enjoyed year-round and the mild winter temperatures are perfect for golf.
32 Sweet Stuff by Terry
Ross
James McAfee is a Plano-based writer who retired recently after seven+ years as editor of the Knox County News-Courier. Previously he served 17 years as a sports writer and editor with Texas and Oklahoma daily newspapers and also was as a editor with Golf Digest Magazine and Texas Golfer for 10 years. In addition, he was the executive director with the Northern Texas PGA for 17 years and served in similar position with the Dallas Golf Association for six years. McAfee also was director of golf and marketing at a Costa Rica resort. He is a life member of the Golf Writers of America and also a member of the Golf Travel Writers. He currently writes for Getting on Travel and has posted articles for Hawaii Golf and Travel, DFW Avid Golfer and several other Texas magazines.
David Theoret (aka The Golfin’ Guy) grew up in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, where it was naturally assumed he would play hockey. Beginning at the age of 3 and continuing into his late 30s, he did just that, however, after one too many pucks to the head, he realized that golf was a lot easier on the body and took the game up. From 2003 until 2009, David ran the sales and marketing department of TravelGolf Media – now known at GolfNow.com. While at TravelGolf, an editor told him he had a flair for writing and he started writing articles about anything golf-related. He currently resides in Lake Tansi, TN with his wife Belinda and their four-legged “kid,” Louie.
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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.
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IVINS, UTAH – Black Desert Resort Golf Course was featured in the lead-up to Sunday’s Masters coverage during Jim Nantz Remembers Augusta: The Masterful Tom Weiskopf, which aired on CBS from 1 to 2 p.m. EST. The show featured an interview with Weiskopf’s longtime design partner, architect Phil Smith, and included footage of the new Black Desert Resort Golf Course, the duo’s final design together before Weiskopf passed away in August of 2022.
After opening nine holes to limited preview play last November, Black Desert Resort will open 18 holes to daily-fee play on May 27, 2023 – an additional 19th hole will open later this year. Set amid ancient black lava fields of Ivins, Utah, near St. George, Weiskopf and Smith designed the par-72 course with playability in mind, with most fairways 70 to 100 yards wide. The course features two drivable par 4s – the 5th hole and 14th hole – a Weiskopf hallmark, bringing both strategy and risk/reward elements into play. The property’s distinct black lava rock, called basalt, originated as lava that intermittently flowed from small local volcanoes approximately 2.3 million to 20,000 years ago.
The last design of Weiskopf’s incredible career, Black Desert Resort created a YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/pla ylist?list=PLrKSW5Egi1gYWLboEVBWSq-21AhA4FE0V) featuring a hole-by-hole flyover tour of the course narrated by Weiskopf, in which he shares the vision behind the design.
Jim Nantz Remembers Augusta: The Masterful Tom Weiskopf included reflections from Nantz on the outstanding career and legacy of Weiskopf. The special included an interview with Weiskopf (done in 2020 prior to his passing in 2022) and focused on his four
runner-up finishes at the Masters, including most notably in 1975. Smith, wearing a Black Desert logoed vest, recalled his time together with Weiskopf as the two collaborated to design numerous top-100 golf courses around the world.
For more information on Black Desert Resort or to make a tee time, visit www.BlackDesertResort.com.
FRISCO, TX – Fields Ranch, PGA Frisco’s showcase championship golf courses at the new home of modern golf – opened for play on May 2 with the availability of tee times for local residents to have the opportunity to play the exceptional 36-hole facility designed by famed golf course architects Gil Hanse and Beau Welling.
The Welling-designed Fields Ranch West began accepting tee times on May 2 onwards. The Hanse-designed Fields Ranch East will accept tee times for May 30 onwards after the conclusion of the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship (May 24 – 28).
Fields Ranch East sits softly on the land and draws its design style and cues from the surrounding landscape. It combines the best of the property’s natural qualities with a thoughtful approach to strategic design. Upon opening to the public, it will play host to 26 additional championships scheduled through 2034, including two PGA Championships, two KPMG Women’s PGA Championships and two KitchenAid Senior PGA Championships.
Fields Ranch West rambles along Panther Creek amid a prairie setting punctuated by majestic live oaks and mesquite trees. Welling took full advantage of the site’s natural beauty to create a golf course that is not only picturesque, but a family-friendly experience and championship-caliber test.
“Fields Ranch opening will mark the beginning of a new era in championship golf in North America and we are so proud to launch this unprecedented golf and entertainment destination,” says Paul Earnest, Director of Golf and Operations at Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco. “What Gil Hanse and Beau Welling have created here will test the world’s best golfers as well as providing memories of a lifetime for players of all skill levels for decades to come.”
Omni PGA Frisco Resort will also be showcasing the opening of “The Swing,” a lighted, 10-hole, par-3 short course, as well as “The Dance Floor,” a two-acre putting course. Both are designed by Hanse and Welling. The Swing presents a fun complement to the golf offerings with holes ranging from 45 to 100 yards. The Dance Floor is considered to be one of the largest natural-grass putting courses in the world. It offers the chance to not only practice putting, but also enjoy a laid back atmosphere for golfers and non-golfers alike while navigating three unique 18-hole layouts and a casual putt-around area.
“No matter what you are looking for in a golf trip, Omni PGA Frisco Resort has all the aspects and amenities to provide a worldclass experience for every guest,” says Jeff Smith, VP and Managing Director of Omni PGA Frisco Resort. “In partnership with the PGA of America, we look forward to being one of the most sought-after golf destinations in the world.”
Rates for Fields Ranch East, a walkingwith-caddie experience, will start at $252 for resort guests with a 120-day booking
window. For public guests, rates start at $277 and can be booked up to seven days in advance. City of Frisco residents can book up to 10 days in advance with up to 20% in discounts when booking outside of 48 hours and up to 50% when scheduled within 48 hours of the day of play.
Rates for Fields Ranch West start at $202 for resort guests and $222 for public guests. City of Frisco residents enjoying the aforementioned discounts.
For more information and to book a tee time, please visit www.fieldsranch.com.
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — True Spec Golf, the global leader in custom club fitting and club building, announced that they have partnered with Liberty National Golf Club to open their second location in the Garden State.
Located just three miles across the Hudson River from New York City, True Spec Liberty National will be open to the public on May 23rd. It is the latest undertaking in a series of partnerships that brings True Spec’s bespoke fittings and best-in-class customer service to prominent clubs and resorts across the country, and is now the second location in the state, joining True Spec New Jersey at Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson.
The premium facility features indoor-tooutdoor fittings utilizing the industry’s first quadroscopic launch monitor, Foresight GCQuad. True Spec’s brand-agnostic fitting
matrix has more than 50,000 club head and shaft combinations from every major equipment manufacturer which helps its master fitters find the best equipment to improve a player’s game. Each club will be custom built at True Spec’s Scottsdale headquarters to the exact specifications derived from the fitting process.
“Golf is thriving in the densely populated northeast, perhaps nowhere more so than where New Jersey and New York City converge,” said Ryan Richardson, president of True Spec Golf. “Golfers in that region deserve the highest quality club fitting experience and we’re thrilled to be able to provide that service with the help of our partners at Liberty National.”
Liberty National Golf Club sits in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, providing golfers with one of the most picturesque landscapes anywhere in the country.
“We offer one of the most stunning settings in the game, coupled with a championship caliber layout,” said Dan Schleichert, PGA Head Golf Professional at Liberty National Golf Club. “Partnering with True Spec to provide world-class club fittings for our members and their guests is not only a valuable experience, but an ideal arrangement that allows us to maintain our identity by setting the highest standard.”
True Spec Liberty National will be located at 100 Caven Point Road. Fitting sessions range from $125 to $375 for a full bag fitting. To book a custom fitting appointment, golfers can visit https://www. truespecgolf.com.
There’s a 36-hole golf sanctuary on Lake Lure an hour east of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains offering spring and fall golf packages on weekends, as well as weekday deals for groups of all sizes throughout the year. The name? Well, it’s one that’s hard to forget – Rumbling Bald.
Rumbling Bald’s “Spring/Fall Packages” (Thursday – Sunday) start at $363 per golfer for two nights lodging in a vacation rental and two rounds on Apple Valley and Bald Mountain golf courses. Three-night, three-round and four-night, four-round options are also available for $501 and $640 per golfer. Its popular “Weekday Packages” (Sunday –Wednesday) began April 1, with rates starting at $330 per person for two nights and two rounds, $452 for three nights and three rounds, and $574 for four nights and four rounds.
Lodging options geared specifically for golfers include the Apple Valley Studios (across from Apple Valley) and two-bedroom Fairway Villas situated along Bald Mountain just steps from its first tee. Via its wide variety of spacious vacation rentals, Rumbling Bald can accommodate golf groups of all sizes. Luxury vacation homes are also available for extended stays and golf rounds can be added a la carte.
“As the days continue to get longer and sunnier, this is the peak golf season here in North Carolina and the Lake Lure area,” says Rumbling Bald General Manager Jeff Geisler. “The Bermuda turf grass has greened up, especially the Champion Bermuda greens on Apple Valley installed in 2020. For many folks, it’s been a busy start to the year. We’re excited to welcome golfers to Rumbling Bald for some real rest and relaxation.”
Rumbling Bald extends complimentary golf rounds to leaders of groups of 12 or more when booking their first trip to the property. The Large Groups 12+ Comp is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, small tournaments, or large golf buddy trips. The shoulder- and off-seasons are ideal for group play, with ample value and typically a faster pace of play than the peak spring and fall periods. While situated near the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald enjoys temperatures similar to Charlotte, the largest neighboring city.
Tucked along scenic Lake Lure and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald is secluded yet eminently accessible from numerous metro areas. Charlotte, Asheville and Raleigh, N.C., Knoxville and Nashville, Tenn., and Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C. are all one to five hours away. The idyllic retreat features two contrasting 18-hole layouts: W.B. Lewis-designed Bald Mountain and Dan Maples-designed Apple Valley.
Rumbling Bald’s marquee course, Apple Valley, stretches to nearly 6,800 yards and features expansive views of Bald Mountain and the surrounding Lake Lure area. Maples estimated 75% of shots at Apple Valley are either level or downhill, virtually unheard of for a mountain course. Shimmering mountain lakes adorn 12 holes, but water only occasionally comes into play.
Bald Mountain, at 6,300 yards, is renowned for its unique configuration of five par 5s and five par 3s. Movie buffs appreciate the 16th green, the backdrop of a scene from “Dirty Dancing.” A protégé of golf course architect George Cobb, Lewis is known for his traditional approach to course design. This philosophy is reflected in Bald Mountain’s playability from tee to green.
The property’s 115 vacation rental homes, condos and studios are ideal for golf groups of various sizes and feature golf course and
mountain views. Post-round, golfers can relax at Legends on the Lake, casual dining along the shores of Lake Lure.
Rumbling Bald is rich with amenities and activities, including scenic Lake Lure boat tours, boat rentals, tennis, pickleball, a full-service spa and hiking trails. Families enjoy the Trout Stream Pool and Lazy River, winding its way through the outdoor pool area where guests relax under fan-cooled covered seating. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For more info on golf packages, golfers can visit www.rumblingbald.com or even directly email J.P. Doran at jdoran@ rumblingbald.com. To book packages directly or to speak with a golf vacation planner, call (828) 694.3072. Golfers are advised to call, email, or check the website for course maintenance and closure schedules. Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (four players in a two-bedroom villa or two in a one-bedroom studio). Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (blackout dates apply).
IAGTO’s European Convention hits the sweet spot and returns to the Costa del Sol next year
The golf tourism industry celebrated its much-anticipated inaugural IAGTO European Convention (IEC) last month in Marbella, Costa del Sol in typical Andalucian style.
Organized by global golf tourism organization IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) for the benefit of its member companies, the threeday event was attended by 634 delegates from 46 countries, making it IAGTO’s largest and most successful event to date.
At the Opening Address it was announced that, due to overwhelming demand, IEC would return to Andalucía next year from 13-15 May 2024 and take place in the city of Málaga, the gateway to the Costa del Golf, where attendance is expected to exceed 800.
Sitting alongside IAGTO’s Americas Convention (NAC) and Asia Convention (AGTC), IEC completes a trio of annual IAGTO events that span the globe. IAGTO Chief Executive Peter Walton said: “Our 2,500 member companies now have the opportunity to attend whichever conventions are most beneficial to them, at an affordable cost, in the knowledge that the business conducted and relationships established will
deliver dividends every single time.
“For example, here at our first IEC, 50% of the buyer delegates are from the top 22% highest performing golf tour operators in their region.”
During the event, 8,300 meetings were pre-scheduled between buyers and suppliers over two full days, and further networking was facilitated through the IEC Golf Tournament played over three courses (La Quinta, Rio Real and Santa Clara golf clubs), five hotel receptions, a Feria Andaluza themed Welcome Reception for all delegates and the traditional IAGTO-style Farewell Fiesta.
Speaking about what it takes to create practically useful meeting environments, Walton said: “What underpins everything we do is the close relationship we have with our members throughout the year. We understand how the golf tourism industry is evolving and what the priorities are for individual companies at any given time. Our events are simply a reaction to this, and they too change and evolve every year.
“We also have incredibly good working relationships with over 100 tourism boards. To bring an event of this size, and to enable it to return, requires a tremendous amount of support and commitment from partner institutions. For IEC 2023 we had three superb anchor sponsors – the tourist boards of Andalucía and Costa del Sol along with the Marbella Town Hall, in addition to event-function sponsors including the Royal Andalucian Golf Federation.”
Delegates were welcomed by officials from the host destinations.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and
Sports of Andalucía, Don Victor González told them: “Andalucia’s relationship with IAGTO, given the relevance of the destination in the field of golf travel, is close, fruitful, long-lasting and I would almost dare to say historic. This event is equally noteworthy as an example of public-private collaboration between the institutions and organizations involved, that we all work in the same direction to promote the development of an essential activity for the region.”
Marbella Mayor Angeles Muñoz said: “We are convinced that this event will not only have a significant impact on our promotion as a golf destination but, together with the forthcoming Solheim Cup, will be a great boost for our Marbella brand.”
Renee Kachler, Director of Business Development for the Costa del Sol Tourism Board, said: “With over 70 golf courses distributed across the Costa del Golf, making up 67% of the golf courses in Andalucía, the Costa del Sol is one of the most important golf destinations in the world. Golf is therefore very important to us. It is a segment that has a significant economic impact on the destination, not only golf clubs but also hotels, restaurants and service companies.”
Pablo Mansilla, President of the Royal Andalucian Golf Federation, said: “Revenue of 2,200 million euros every year result from golf related activities in Andalucía, with more than 50,000 people employed directly and indirectly with golf.
“That’s mainly because of you,” he told delegates. “It’s mainly because you keep sending visitors to Andalucía.”
IEC 2024 will take place from 13-15 May in Málaga.
DANANG, VIETNAM – New and reestablished air links with important markets including Japan, Korea, India, and China will allow golf tourism to take flight again in Central Vietnam.
That’s the view from the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) — a freshly rebooted destination marketing organization that links the region’s best signature golf courses.
Danang International Airport is currently Vietnam’s third busiest aviation hub. And it’s gearing up for a bumper period ahead as Central Vietnam reasserts its reputation as a hub for golf and rolls out the red carpet for visitors travelling from Japan, China, India, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, and Malaysia: its current roster of international destinations.
In late March, national carrier Vietnam Airlines resumed its popular route between Danang and Tokyo, Japan’s capital. The coming months, meanwhile, will witness a ramping up of services between Danang and tier-one Chinese cities including Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
These developments come hot on the heels of other major route launches and resumptions.
New routes launched so far in 2023 include services linking Danang with Taipei in Taiwan and Macau. Other relaunched links include one between Danang and Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
Last year, meanwhile, low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launched new routes from Danang to Singapore, Busan in South Korea, and major Indian cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
“With its range of clubs and off-course attractions, central Vietnam is a truly world-class golf hub. The fact that it’s better connected than ever with the rest of the region can only be good news for the destination,” said Gary Dixon, general manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, one of the driving forces in the VGC and home to a championship layout masterminded by 2023 European Ryder Cup team captain Luke Donald.
With high-quality golf combined with incredible beaches and luxury accommodations like the award-winning properties at Laguna Lang Co —resorts Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co, and the Laguna Park Villas private residences — Central Vietnam is arguably Vietnam’s hub for golf tourism. It offers a range of attractions, including the heritage sites in history-steeped Hoi An and the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hill: a 150-metre-long pedestrian bridge that is one of Asia’s most photographed landmarks.
Its myriad attributes are complemented by world-class infrastructure that includes Danang International Airport, which links Danang with direct flights to 25 regional destinations and 8 destinations within Vietnam.
Clubs in the area are reporting brisk business as golf travel returns with a vengeance. Banner events such as the Danang International
Fireworks Festival—a two-month-long jamboree encompassing firework performances and cultural celebrations that returns in June after a two-year hiatus— are also helping to elevate the destination and tempt back international visitors.
“Central Vietnam is ready to welcome back the world,” said Adam Calver, Director of Golf & Destination Marketing at Laguna Lang Co, home to an award-winning Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design. “Markets such as Korea and Japan have traditionally been huge for us and we are delighted to see travel ramping up from these countries and other destinations including giants like China and India, the two most populous countries on the planet. These air links will contribute to opening more opportunities, boosting the economy, and promoting trade and tourism.”
INDONESIA, - The Indonesian Masters will be played from 1619 November 2023, once again playing a major role in the end of season action on the Asian Tour.
The long-standing prestigious tournament, which will boast minimum prize money of US$1.5 million, will once again be the final event of this year’s 10-event International Series and one of the closing events on the Asian Tour’s season.
Importantly, the event will have the final say in who wins The International Series Order of Merit (OOM) and secures passage onto the 2024 LIV Golf League.
Chairman of the Asian Tour and Founder of the Indonesian Masters, Jimmy Masrin, said: “The Asian Tour and The International
Series have enjoyed outstanding starts to 2023, and we are thrilled that the Indonesian Masters will once again help contribute to an exciting climax to the season. The two work hand-in-hand, with The International Series being the single most important development in the history of the Asian Tour.”
Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut triumphed at the Indonesian Masters last year, during a memorable week when the tournament brought the curtain down on both the Asian Tour and International Series seasons. American Sihwan Kim claimed the Asian Tour OOM and Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent the International Series OOM – both players have been competing on the LIV Golf League this season.
Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series, said: “The Indonesian Masters has always been a fitting battle ground for global trophy hunters over the last 11 years, and as it was last year, it now has the added bonus of being the clincher for a lucrative ticket to one of the world’s most exciting franchises - the LIV Golf League.”
Cho Minn Thant, Asian Tour Commissioner & CEO, said: “While we continue to break ground at several new venues across the globe, events like the Indonesian Masters make up the backbone of the Asian Tour. The global nature of the event and its esteemed heritage, it is clear that the tournament is the right fit for The International Series.”
A prominent feature on the Asian Tour since its launch in 2011, the Indonesian Masters has always welcomed world-class fields and has a distinguished list of past champions including England’s Lee Westwood, a three-time champion and the winner of the inaugural edition. Other notable champions include Justin Rose, Jazz Janewattananond and Anirban Lahiri.
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – PGA National Resort – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation, culinary, family, events and spa destination now showcasing the luxurious upgrades of its recent $100 million renovation – is offering exceptional summer experiences catered to golf group getaways as well as those planning holiday vacations for Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, the Fourth of July and special summer occasions in the coming months.
Starting at $441 (per person, per day, double occupancy), the wildly popular “Gold Golf Experience” experience showcases the incredible array of courses at PGA National Resort and includes one round of golf daily on The Fazio, The Match, The Estate, The Champion (with surcharge) or The Palmer (with surcharge) layouts along with luxury accommodations.
From June 1 – Sept. 30, avid golfers can play from dawn until dusk with complimentary replay green fees booked on the day of play. A $50 cart fee applies along with a surcharge for replays on The Champion and The Palmer courses (per person, plus tax).
For those who want to bring the entire family along for a funfilled stay in the sun, the “Ultimate Family Fun” package is ideal. With prices starting at $212 (per family, per day, two children included), guests can enjoy a daily resort credit at the Banyan Buddies Kid’s Club and the recently renovated Spa at PGA National Resort. Golfers in the family will also want to take advantage of a complimentary round on the thrillingly fun, new nine-hole Staple Course.
A brand new feature of PGA National Resort’s summer exclusives is the unique “Decadent Member For a Day” option perfect for those craving a VIP “daycation” to soak in the radiant Palm Beach / Miami lifestyle. This exclusive experience blends dramatic aerial sightseeing in a Blade helicopter, exceptional golf and racquet sports opportunities, and optional culinary and spa experiences in an action-packed day of excitement and relaxation. Pricing starts from $350 per person and is only available in conjunction with Blade flights in the area.
The resort is currently unveiling the stunning results of its overall property transformation, including a nostalgic vibe brought to the 339 resort guest rooms, 21 private Serena & Lily-designed luxury cottages and common areas, and a focus on superb dining where guests are guided by their palate throughout the day. Among the six new culinary concepts are two signature restaurants spearheaded by “Top Chef” winner Jeremy Ford and multiple James Beard Award nominee Lindsay Autry, The Butcher’s Club and Honeybelle.
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 spring and summer months are a fantastic time to visit PGA National Resort and experience our award-winning golf, accommodations and amenities with one of our exciting summer offers,” says Jane Broderick, director of golf. “The numerous enhancements throughout the property ensure every guest will
have a truly memorable stay, whether on a golf trip, couples’ retreat, VIP excursion or a fun family vacation.”
The resort additionally highlights topnotch instruction at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, and the world’s first science-based and statistical data-driven golf training center, Full Process Golf. PGA National Resort also offers state-of-the-art club fitting.
The newly-imagined Spa – redesigned by VSTARR, the award-winning South Florida design firm of tennis legend Venus Williams – offers 40,000 square feet of tranquility and wellness. The serene oasis provides the perfect escape to breathe, heal and rejuvenate with individualized holistic care. The Spa’s comprehensive menu of restorative treatments are designed to evoke lightness, openness and a deep sense of well-being. For gentlemen to look their best on and off the course, the Spa’s cool new Groom Guy offers fresh haircuts, clean shaves, beard trimming and personalized styling from classically-trained barbers.
Currently, Spa guests can purchase a gift card of $500 or more and receive an
additional $100 added on to savor all of the facility’s wellness amenities. The promotion is available for purchase in person at The Spa at PGA National Resort.
Additional amenities include its superlative 33,000 square-foot health and racquet club with 19 Har Tru tennis courts (12 lit for night play); six brand new pickleball courts for members and guests to enjoy the game’s burgeoning popularity in South Florida and across the U.S.; 60,000 square feet of indoor / outdoor event space. Guests can now enjoy a new high-end chocolatier, the Big Drip frozen yogurt shop and the fun, family-friendly “Banyan Buddies” experience for kids.
For ease of travel, PGA National Resort has partnered with Blade to become the exclusive luxury hotel and resort partner in the Palm Beaches. With Blade’s modern fleet of helicopters, seaplanes, aircraft and jets, guests and members can travel between the resort’s private helipad and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), Fort Lauderdale, Miami or any other South Florida location. From New York, BLADEone, a by-the-seat commercial sized jet, features a private jet-interior,
caviar service and Blade’s renowned SkyFX staff.
The resort also features a wide array of exceptional vacation packages that members can take advantage of for unforgettable South Florida getaways. For more information about PGA National Resort: visit www.pgaresort.com or call 800.863.2819.
SCOTTSDALE, AZ – May is ‘Player Development Month’ at Troon-affiliated facilities and Troon Golf Academies around the world. Throughout May, clubs and courses are increasing golf instruction and lesson opportunities for all levels of players including hosting golf clinics, lessons and golf schools, plus engaging golfers through a fun Putting Challenge and more. Troon created Player Development Month 11 years ago 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 golf schools, Troon offers Troon Coach, a fullservice 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 adult and junior participants who complete the Challenge (while tagging @Troon) with the highest amount of putting points throughout the month of May will each 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.
By David R. Holland
DRIFTWOOD, Texas -- Jordan Spieth and Fred Funk could be in your next foursome.
Yeah, maybe that’s a stretch, but my visit to Driftwood Ranch and Golf Club did result in a “howdy” and short pleasantry with Funk who arrived at valet parking at the same time.
If you have ever played a Discovery Land Company property you know it will be a special day. At the Hideaway in La Quinta Doug Sanders’ foursome waved my group through at another Discovery Land Company golf course. Duck quesadillas were served at the turn.
At Driftwood Ranch my group enjoyed Texas BBQ and just about anything you could dream up to snack on and drink at the “Comfort Stations”.
“Those were the finest amenities I have ever experienced on any golf course anywhere,” said Gary McWilliams, college roommate and retired physician from Boerne, Texas. “If Buc-ees and Augusta had a baby, this might be it. I was cradled in comfort from the moment a valet attendant met me as I drove up and the BBQ pit on the course at a back nine comfort station was outstanding.”
Driftwood Ranch, 30 minutes from downtown Austin, is developed in rolling hills and 800 acres with massive 100-year-old live oak trees, limestone rock outcroppings, natural and man-made wetlands, flowing creek, prickly-pear cacti, Texas wildflowers and wildlife habitat corridors. Beautiful Onion Creek is nearby and so is a landmark BBQ joint -- the Salt Lick.
Refined by world-class amenities, you could travel far and wide to seek such pampering. It is a family-focused country lifestyle with golf and practice facilities at a grand scale.
After consultation with Spieth, Driftwood put forth a substantial practice game area. It has a 13-acre two-sided driving range and a six-acre short game area of Zeon Zoysia, with a water feature that runs throughout the large greens, allowing for practice for every shot and all skill levels.
On one visit Fazio said top players could be satisfied just staying on the “mindblowing” practice acreage since they could be the best facilities pro golfers would ever see.
So what are the advantages of Zeon Zoysia? Massive rolls were sprawled out like carpet and there was immediate coverage with no erosion. The grass, supplied by Bladerunner, was used on tees, fairways, rough and green approaches. There’s low maintenance, less chemicals, less fertilizer, less mowing and less water to maintain it.
Members of my group were met with enthusiasm by Casey Paulson, Project President, and after warm up we headed out for a ton of pampering and top shelf golf that stretches out to 7,662 yards, par 72, and with knowledgeable caddies by our side.
The Zeon Zoysia was immediately a hit on the par-4 first hole, 425 yards, wide fairway and rolly-polly perfect green of 007 bentgrass. After playing the sixth you meet up with the first comfort station
before heading out to more entertaining golf and the almost 600yard, par-5 ninth. Ping pong and cornhole are also comfort station activities.
But the course’s strength comes in a crescendo, a climactic ending -- the finishing holes.
Fazio, in typical architectural speak, says they could be some of the finest finishing holes in golf. He’s one of the most sought-after designers in the business -- so busy he has no website and no phone number can be found in web searches.
The 203-yard, par-3 17th could be the most discussed. Originally designed with a small lake fronting the green, things changed with input from club organizers. To create something even more enticing they decided an investment of $1 million more would be needed to make the “lake” much larger. You will know immediately the impact when you arrive on your tee -- senior golfers might just reach for the driver.
Water is ever present on the back nine with seven holes with wet consequences. The entirety of the 16th, a 485-yarder, has water right, and the finale is a 476-yarder which narrows by the green with a pond and waterfall with the clubhouse in view.
Exploring off the golf course
Driftwood’s two distinct yet connecting parcels are named The Creek and The Ranch. Here luxurious lifestyle amenities and year-round recreation activities are prominent.
There are multiple concert venues, and a wealth of recreational activities including a family pool complex with Lazy River, splash pad and Flowrider. There’s an activity barn for arts and crafts; sports fields, basketball and bowling; pickleball and tennis courts; a spa
and wellness center with a lap pool; a two-story fitness center and a recreation concierge to set up guided outdoor pursuits. And an organic farm, vineyards, and songwriter’s studio fill out the docket.
Kids and adults can use the Fish Camp for tandem kayaking and stocked pond fishing. And there’s more than five miles of hike and bike trails along with Onion Creek viewing. Riders of all levels will enjoy a progressive mountain bike trail system and pump tracks.
Sustainably sourced ingredients define Driftwood’s culinary program and the chefs feature creative, seasonal, and locally-inspired dishes throughout several dining venues, all sourcing fresh produce from on-site organic farms.
Driftwood Downtown provides a relaxed atmosphere for work or play in a stylish, sophisticated, and comfortable space. With three distinct levels – the Tap Room, Mezzanine and private rooftop – this is where coworking with clients turns into happy hour at the golf simulator and ends with evening cocktails on the private rooftop overlooking downtown Austin. The venue’s modern aesthetic underscores Discovery Land Company’s commitment to the finest in luxe design.
Play amenity-driven awesome golf, bottle your own wine, take a hike to Onion Creek -- all this for a few million. Yep, welcome to the ever-expanding gateway to the Texas Hill Country. Californians are moving to Texas every day saying “what a bargain!”
By James McAfee
After spending three days at the newly-renovated Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, secluded on 4,000 acres in the rolling hills of Austin, Texas, in April, 2022, it’s easy to see why it was named among the top five resorts in the Southwest by Conde Nast Traveler and the top five resorts in Texas by Texas Travel + Leisure World.
It’s the perfect place for a vacation for golfers because you have the opportunity to play any of the four courses designed by nationally known architects like Tom Fazio, Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore and Arnold Palmer and enjoy the luxurious accommodations along with members of its private club.
The Fazio Canyons, ranked third in the state among courses that are open to the public by Golfweek, re-opened in the fall of 2022 after a major $5 million renovation that included the addition of new tees, allowing the course to be lengthened to 7,433 yards–long enough to handle major events with players hitting 300+ drives. Getting input from members of Barton Creek, new forward orange tees were also added, shortening the length for short hitters to 4,600 yards.
The re-do also included a new state-of-the-art practice
facility. Rufus Brijalba, the Barton Creek director of golf, believes the addition of Toptracker Range technology that allows members and resort guests to track data about their shots along with the Barton Creek Golf Academy and Barton Creek Fitting Center will make coming here a “onestop destination for game improvements.”
Fazio Canyons, located two miles away from the resort, offers plenty of awe-inspiring views of the roller-coaster ups and downs facing players with scenic holes framed by Red Oaks and Sycamore trees plus limestone cliffs. Short Springs creek adds to the challenge when playing riskreward chances. The course was the first one in the state certified as an Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. The new Canyons Clubhouse sits at the edge of the driving range.
Most golfers feel the Fazio Foothills, ranked eighth in the state by Golfweek, is just as dramatic and many feel places even more premium on shot-making. It offers elevated tee boxes and equally thrilling up and down roller-coaster rides to the fairways and greens that are protected by cliffs, creeks and waterfalls. It plays only 7,087 from the back tees, but played host to the Legends of Golf event on the Champions Tour back in 1990-1994 and more recently the
2022 PGA National Championship. It will be closed from June 2023 until Oct. 1 2023 for more renovations.
The Coore-Crenshaw Creekside course, ranked 10th in the state by Golfweek after being renovated in 2017, features wider sweeping fairways lined with plenty of trees. It’s shorter than the two Fazio courses, but it’s the large greens that will give players the most problems. First-timers will have more three-putts and even an occasional four-putt if they do not get on the correct corners.
Guests of the resort can also drive 45 minutes to play Palmer Lakeside, located on a secluded hilltop overlooking Lake Travis, offering dramatic elevation changes with panoramic views of the lake. It also was being renovated, but will reopen Oct. 1.
The last hole on the three courses near the resort all offered lasting memories for our group of four seniors that included my cousin, Eldon Tarver, a starter-marshall at the resort who was our host.
The 18th on the Foothills heads back up the hill toward the resort hotel, making it longer than the 560 yards listed on the scorecard. A few of the long hitters might have a chance of getting home in two, but most will layup short of a penalty area where they can hit a short iron over a natural limestone cave and a bunker.
A word of caution: take a little more club than you think you need even if the flag is on the front. It’s easier to make par that way than ending up in the penalty area. Trying to play out of it isn’t easy as our opponents that day discovered.
The 18th on the Canyons is a double dogleg par 5 of 562 yards carved through bunkers with a stream just short of the green. Getting home in two is possible, but most will need three shots. After the trees on the right side caught by second shot, I could not get over the creek on my third shot. My partner and I thought we might still have one last chance, but an opponent’s ball headed for the stream actually bounced off a rock and onto the green.
The 18th on Cliffside is a 393-yard par 4 with a wide-open fairway where you need to definitely be a little longer off the tee or be faced with a very difficult approach over a running creek to a green that appears to be etched into the hillside. My partner and I ended up in the penalty area and never had a chance as our opponents avoided the creek.
In addition to golf, Barton Creek Resort, which has 493 rooms and suites, also is an ultimate retreat for those who want to relax under the care of an experienced massage therapist in the world-class 13,000-square-foot Mokara Spa or swim in three heated pools and work out in the 35,000-square-foot fitness center.
If you can find the time, there’s plenty to do in Austin, “The Live Music Capital of the World.” With 76,000-squarefeet of meeting spaces, it also hosts many weddings and conventions. Plenty of dining options are available at the Blind Salamander Kitchen and Bar, Bob’s Steak and Chop House, Nopales, Crenshaw’s Bar and Eatery, Jim Bob’s Lobby Lounge, Travis Pool Bar and Grill, Velvet Joe’s Coffee House and Canyon Grill.
It’s definitely a place where you will have memories to last for a long time or until you can return!
One of the biggest things the coastal North Carolina area has going for it is a fantastic climate; outdoor recreational activities can be enjoyed year-round and the mild winter temperatures are perfect for golf.
Brunswick Forest is an active lifestyle community in Leland, North Carolina that takes full advantage of everything Mother Nature has to offer. The community is about 10 minutes from the Wilmington area and 30 minutes from the Atlantic beaches. Brunswick Forest borders Town Creek, which flows to the Cape Fear River and then out to the Atlantic Ocean. This 4,500-acre master-planned community is still being built
out and is slated to have about 8,000 homes. Among the vast array of amenities available within the community is a private country club that is home to one of the best golf courses in the area.
Cape Fear National Golf Club is not only the Wilmington area’s most celebrated golf course, it’s an award-winning 18hole championship course whose natural beauty is unmatched by any other golf course around. Since opening in 2010, Cape Fear National has received several awards including a top 10 ranking from Golfweek Magazine as “Best Courses You Can Play in North Carolina,” “10 Best New Public Courses in
America,” from Golf Digest, a “Top 100 Fairways in the U.S.” from Golf for Women Magazine and “#41 Top 100 Public Course in the U.S.” from Golf Magazine. It is constantly given “4 ½ Stars” by Golf Digest for “Places to Play.”
Renowned golf course architect Tim Cate has created a course that takes the area’s heavily undulating land and winds its way through wetlands, waterfalls, and beach bunkers. Although the course is carved from acres of forest, trees are not that much of a factor. Instead, North Carolina native grasses and wildflowers are often found bordering Cate’s signature feature – waste bunkers that run the entire
length of a hole and sometimes serve as the cart path. This can be seen on holes 5, 13, and 16.
Cape Fear National is all about golf and with that mindset comes outstanding practice facilities. In addition to a fulllength driving range, there are several separate areas where you can work on your short game, sand game, and putting. If you are lucky enough to be invited to the club as a guest or on a discovery tour, I advise getting to the course early and taking advantage of all the club has to offer
As you make your way around the course, you’ll find more than
1,500 feet of bridges, three separate waterfalls, several ponds, and strategically placed rock walls. Over 1.5 million cubic yards of earth were moved to create this golfing masterpiece with water or wetlands coming into play on every hole. The result is a gently rolling golf course that is as aesthetically pleasing to look at as it is challenging to play. What you see is what you get; there are no hidden hazards out here!
Whether you’re a low-handicapper or are just new to the game, players of all skill levels will enjoy Cape Fear National. With six sets of tees, the course plays anywhere from 7,130 yards to 4,811 yards. From the Champion Tees, Cape Fear National has a course rating of 74.8 and a slope of 140. I found the Blue Tees (6,208/70.3/131) offered a fair challenge and still allowed me to leave with some dignity intact. Pick the tees that best suit your game and you’re sure to enjoy yourself.
During your round, you’re sure to encounter several holes that will stick in your memory. The 2nd hole at Cape Fear National is a challenging par 5 with a sharp dog leg left that plays 486 yards from the Blue Tees. You’ll need to hit your tee shot about 240 yards to even have a peek at the green.
Play your layup shot up the left side being sure to avoid the fairway bunker, which will take the creek on the right side out of play and leave a short pitch shot into the green.
Number 11 is another short par 5, playing 444 yards from the Blue Tees. Don’t let the length fool you; it may be short but there’s a lot of trouble. For starters, you’ll need to hit over the lake on the right side and avoid the two fairway bunkers in the landing area off the tee. Then, you’ll need to hit your second shot up the left side, avoiding more fairway bunkers on either side. If you’re going for the green in two, there’s a large bunker front right, and the water butts up against the green on the right. The green is slightly elevated.
Bunkers steal the spotlight on Numbers 12 and 13. The 12th hole is a challenging and picturesque par 4 with beautiful bunkering in the fairway on either side and around the green, both in front and behind. You’ll need to fly your approach shot onto this green or risk hitting out of the sand. Number 13 is one of Cate’s signature holes with a waste bunker that you drive through framing the right side of the fairway and snaking its way up in front of the green. Be wary of the pond
on the left side off the tee which you may well find if you’re paying too much attention to that bunker.
One of the things that sets this golf course apart is the finishing holes on either side, they are par 3s! Number 9 plays 160 yards from the Blue Tees with wetlands that stretch from in front of the tee box right up to the front of the green. There are bunkers on the right side and behind the green which is a lot wider than it is deep.
Eighteen is a little bit longer, 185 yards, over wetlands to a long, narrow green with two bunkers front left. Just check the wind, choose your club, and swing away. Pars on the two finishing holes are usually indicative of a good round!
Cape Fear National is a private golf club where the focus is on you, the member. After all, membership is a choice that often leads to changes in lifestyle. Cape Fear National offers a welcoming atmosphere in a peaceful, serene setting, where you’re certain to meet others that share your interests. As a member, you’ll enjoy a challenging golf course, fun social activities, and memorable dining experiences. There are no tennis courts, swimming pools, or fitness centers, just a world-class golf facility, a well-stocked bar, great food, and good friends. That’s really all a country club needs.
Cape Fear National Golf Club was recently purchased by Heritage Golf Group, the fastest-growing golf club owner in the country. Heritage Golf Group currently has 25 public, private, and resortstyle golf courses in 9 states that will challenge golfers of all skill sets and abilities. For more information on Cape Fear National or to become one of its newest members, give them a call at (910) 3833283 or visit them online at www.capefearnational.com.
the master craftsmen there were able to produce premium, hightech and top-performing golf clubs with state-of-the-art heads and proprietary shafts built by master artisans to perform together holistically by integrating the shaft and clubhead design.
The slot in the sole of the club efficiently transmits energy at impact into initial velocity for high trajectory and long distance. The shaft does not rotate, even when the loft and lie angles are adjusted between -1 degree to +2 degrees of loft.
“This new line helps expand the BERES legacy to a new generation of golfers,” says Takahiro Suzuki, senior product marketing manager at Honma Golf. “That’s incredibly important to our company. It’s a rebirth and continuance of the legacy of the BERES brand that started in 2005. While maintaining the extremely high quality of BERES, we thoroughly pursued advanced technologies and generously adopted Honma’s primary technology related to speed and distance. The result is BERES NX.”
The ability to change the loft, lie and face angle with the turn of the torque wrench that comes with the club, or change the weighting of the head with the same tool and inter-changeable weights, makes the NX one of the most adjustable and versatile on the market. This driver is available in base lofts of 9 and 10.5 degrees for men (plus a 10.5-degree left-handed model), and 11.5 degrees for ladies.
Without a doubt much of the buzz in equipment circles this year has revolved around the new and improved drivers that the leading manufacturers have introduced with advanced technology--together with lighter heads and shafts in an effort to help a greater number of players improve their performance.
One of the newest of these game improvement drivers that a lot of players might not have heard about yet could be the best of them all. The Honma BERES NX driver that is available for both men and women has it all—crazy speed and distance, super adjustability and forgiveness—together with a great feel and look.
The BERES line has been Honma’s ultra-premium luxury line of clubs, and now with the NX series the company has expanded that into more game improvement options that are very impressive. This driver is designed for a wide spectrum of golfers—both men and women in a 6 to 30 handicap range—so it fits right in for those that have a moderate swing speed who need to maximize their abilities.
The club generates high initial ball speed through a new clubface and crown structure. The “NX Drive Technology” structure – consisting of a no-weld upper L-CUP face, solid carbon crown, hyper wide slot and keel weighting – enhances the initial velocity performance for improved flight and distance. Its radial face surface expands the toe and heel repulsion areas to the edges of the face, while X Lib increases the rigidity of the face’s outer circumference for more resilience.
Players can expect high-and-straight trajectory with low spin, thanks to the driver’s high Moment of Inertia (MOI) and low/deep center of gravity (CG). Its solid carbon crown and upper L-CUP face work in tandem to fortify the structure for increased repulsion. Use of carbon in the crown also allows weight to be carefully redistributed throughout the clubhead to maximize performance. Since Honma designs and produces all its components in-house in Sakata, Japan,
Another excellent feature is that the BERES NX club comes with Honma’s renowned lightweight VIZARD shaft as a standard feature. VIZARD, which was developed for Honma’s T//WORLD line of clubs, is combined with BERES for the first time. Based on its integrated design with the NX clubheads, VIZARD for NX weighs just 45 grams, appealing to a wide range of golfers. It is generally more flexible in the middle and more optimized towards the butt and tip – helping produce proper spin and fast initial velocity. That lets golfers take a comfortable, easy swing while the shaft does all the work.
Also available as an upgrade is the VIZARD for NX Triple Star shaft. It uses ultra-high elasticity prepreg with a higher tonnage, with low frequency and low torque, while giving flex and suppleness. Thus, this premium shaft realizes even better distance and accuracy.
This line of Honma NX clubs includes fairway woods and irons-and is the latest from the prestigious and iconic golf brand that was founded in 1959 inside a small Yokohama workshop and now designs all products in Sakata, Japan, utilizing the latest innovative technologies and traditional Japanese craftsmanship to provide golfers across the globe with premium, high-tech and top-performing golf clubs.
For more information: visit https://us.honmagolf.com
For anyone serious about their golf game and willing to take the time to drill down into the finer points of the swing, the deWiz training device can give you all you want—and then some.
With the shape and look of a watch, this wearable tech device is called a swing monitor and modifier—and can give you 14 comprehensive swing data points for every swing utilizing the advanced software and the phone app that pairs with the wrist device to measure your swing in ways you may not be familiar with.
These precise measurements included Length of Backswing, Transition, Backswing Plane, five Tempo measurements and other data points. As golf’s first swing monitor and modifier, deWiz is
Learning Stimuli feature delivers real-time feedback through an electric pulse that elevates the effectiveness of the practice and make lasting changes faster through neuroscience. Additional advance metrics are available via the deWiz Coaches Program and Elite Players program--including the development of deWiz’s on-course mode for tournament use.
One of the fun parts of the program is recording your own data and then comparing it to data that has been recorded for various handicap levels—and even for select professional players—to see how the metrics measure up to others—and giving excellent information to use in trying to improve your own performance. Try emulating DeChambeau’s 69-inch backswing to gain some distance with the driver!
The deWiz is an excellent tool for those that do not have access to video—or have the desire to quantify what they are seeing with real-time numbers and explanations. Teachers are using it and so are professionals to improve on the finer points of the swing.
For more information, visit: www.dewizgolf.com
For those looking for golf footwear that is decidedly casual, yet functional on the course and makes a fashion statement, the new Biion Footwear Trainer shoe fits the bill perfectly as both comfortable to play in and stable enough to support swinging the club.
breaking new ground in the understanding of the golf swing-and using its game-changing data to help golfers increase their consistency and hit the ball longer, straighter and closer.
“Like launch monitors do for impact and ball flight, deWiz is a swing monitor that is adding a new layer of data to better understand the golf swing, which is the root cause of a good or bad shot. These new downswing measurements deliver even more real-time data that golfers crave on every swing they take – anywhere and everywhere – and further optimize how deWiz’s technology helps them make lasting changes to their swing. Feel is not real when it comes to the golf swing, but with deWiz golfers can precisely understand their swing like never before,” said Markus Westerberg, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of deWiz Golf.
Developed and produced in Malmö, Sweden, deWiz--behind cofounders- Westerberg (PGA Professional, Ljunghusen Golfklubb) and Christian Bergh—has really gone the extra mile to bring expertise to the product with an extensive YouTube Channel and excellent tutorial videos by Martin Hall with his GolfPass Daily Video Tip.
The deWiz Global Ambassadors roster currently includes Annika Sörenstam, 10-time major-champion; Vijay Singh, 3-time majorchampion; Bryson DeChambeau, 2020 U.S. Open champion; Henrik Stenson, 2016 Open champion; Yuka Saso, 2021 U.S. Women’s Open champion; Lanto Griffin, 2019 Houston Open champion--in addition to Hall--a past PGA of America National Teacher of the Year. Additionally, the deWiz Coaches Program currently has partnerships with the LPGA Professionals, PGA of Sweden, PGA of Germany, and the Southern California PGA of America section.
In addition to the Discovery Program on the app that let’s you get your current numbers by tracking the exact position of a one’s wrists throughout their swing, providing 3D swing data, the deWiz’s
As a slip-on shoe, the Trainer is extremely comfortable and cool to the feel since its many ventilation holes spread around the out-sole provides a surprising relaxing experience--like playing in bare feet— with the ability to feel the ground without jeopardizing performance.
“We’re pleased to introduce the all-new Biion Trainer for adults and kids,” said Richard Buchanan, founder of Biion Footwear. “The Trainer features all the technical details and functionality of our much-loved Oxford, including 3-piece construction and Extra-Grip outsole. We’re proud to announce that we won Silver at the Global Footwear design awards.
“Biion offers the largest, most dynamic collection of children’s footwear for golf,” added Buchanan. “Our range of golf footwear for kids features colors, patterns and textures that capture their bold personalities. Some of our popular designs include Harry Potter and DC Super Heros.”
He also noted that the new style has a tennis trainer silhouette that brings a casual look to a traditional game—and can help broaden
the demographic appeal—not to mention the shoes performance characteristics.
Approved by orthopedic specialists, Biion’s design supports the inner footbed, allowing for the natural movement of your feet through every step (and swing). A dual density, energy-return midsole works with the golfer, allowing for the natural movement of your feet through every step and every swing. The massage nodes within every Biion
Adidas Sport Eyewear is meeting the warmer and sunnier part of the season with two new frames and new features to their golf-specific sunglasses that offer excellent innovation.
In addition to the impact-resistant and ultra-lightweight TR90 injection molded frames that provide excellent fitting eyewear that is not only comfortable and stylish-- the Kolor Up™ technology that is applied to these scratch resistant lens offer extreme clarity as the ball leaves the club face that are not only clear—but provide excellent color and contrast on the course—not to mention great sun protection. This helps in reading the greens and noticing breaks that could go unnoticed without the aid of the glasses.
shoe give your feet a therapeutic sensation with every step.
Biion’s Hexcell nano molecular EVA technology forms to your foot giving you a performing shoe with a precision fit. The lightweight, flexible EVA material keeps you light on your feet and comfortable before, during and after your game--helping to reduce leg fatigue for greater performance in the long haul.
A spikeless Hextra-Grip traction outsole in every Biion shoe provides an extremely low-profile performance, outstanding traction, strength and stability in the swing. The shoes are also resistant to mildew and bacteria and are anti-microbial--a plus to maintain healthy feet.
Designed and produced in Canada, Biion shoes were developed by taking classic silhouettes and modernizing them with 21st century materials--bringing function to fashion with technology that lends itself to high-performance.
For more information, visit the Biion website at: www.BiionFootwear.com
With a contemporary yet traditional style, these frames offer excellent versatility and features such as a 12-hole ventilation system, security block hinges, four-position adjustable nose pad for a personalized fit and an attractive black and grey and blue and grey color schemes.
These sunglasses certainly check all the boxes when it comes to comfort, styling and quality.
The line is available on-line and comes with a padded deluxe adidas cloth carry bag.
For more information on the new adidas Sport Eyewear offerings: https://www.com/
