OUR 12th YEAR!
THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots
GOLF VACATIONS MARCH 2014
SEWAILO GOLF CLUB FLOWER POWER MEETS BRAIN POWER IN TUCSON ROCKFORD, IL
CROSS OVER THE BRIDGE
Plus: HYATT REGENCY HILL COUNTRY RESORT & SPA
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GOLF VACATIONS MARCH 2014
Sewailo Golf Club at Casino Del Sol Resort in Tucson, AZ
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My Turn
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Healthy Game
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Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa
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Cross Over The Bridge to Rockford by Chuck “The Traveling Guy” Miller Over the past 700 years thousands of professional and amateur golfers have crossed over the famed Swilcan Bridge separating the
by Terry Ross
by Dr. Robert S. Biscup
by David R. Holland
SAN ANTONIO, TX – Ed Wiseman first walked the land that is now home to the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa in 1933 as a young cowboy from LaVernia in Wilson County, Texas -- a place his family had farmed and ranched since 1851.
1st and 18th holes on St. Andrews world famous Old Course. Now you can do the same without having to span the Atlantic to visit Scotland. Well, almost. You can cross over a replica of the bridge when you play golf at one of Illinois’ top public courses, the Aldeen Golf Club in Rockford, Illinois.
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Sewailo Golf Club
by David R. Holland
TUCSON, AZ – Sewailo Golf Club at Casino Del Sol Resort head pro Spencer Cody laughed when he recalled hearing a quote dished out to a regional golf magazine editor by course superintendent Jonathan Williams. Williams said that the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s new Notah Begay III-Ty Butler-designed golf course was a story of two Johnsons – Zach and Dustin.
Sweet Stuff
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by Terry Ross www.golfvacationsmag.com
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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Terry Ross has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities. He has been a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal and is based in Orange County, California.
Executive Editor Chuck Miller (The Traveling Guy) a Southern California native and 11 handicap golfer at Shadowridge Country Club in Vista, California, writes about golf for newspapers, magazines and internet travel sites. His business background includes developing the initial international distribution network for Adams Golf.
Jeffrey Diaz
Associate Editor Terry Ross
Features Editor Larry Feldman
David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Holland, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine, and Fairway to Green (UK). He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, United Press International and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
JD Latorre is a freelance travel writer currently calling South Florida his home base. He has a knack for finding himself in some of the world’s most exotic locations, including Bangkok, Montego Bay, Bogata, Havana, Cabo San Lucas, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.
Senior Writers JD Latorre Andy Reistetter Fred Robledo
For Editorial:
call (760) 774-2655 e-mail: Info@GolfVacationsMag.com
Regional Advertising Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500 haroldc@GolfVacationsMag.com
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portsMedia publications
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Golf Vacations Magazine is published in digital format monthly and distributed online to over 1,000,000 golfer’s email inboxes each issue. Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2014 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.
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MYTURN
by TERRYROSS
photos by Paul Lester
Shoveling Sunshine in California W
hile most of the South and East portions of our country looked more like candidates for the Winter Olympics than places to get away and play golf this time of year, on the opposite coast in Southern California conditions couldn’t have been more perfect for golf as the PGA Tour made its annual visit to some of the choicest courses in the country. In La Quinta, which has become the golf capital for the Palm Springs area of So Cal just 100 miles or so from Los Angeles, the PGA Tour makes its annual first stop on the US mainland of the calendar year with its midJanuary event hosted by former President Bill Clinton. The Humana Challenge, formerly known as the Bob Hope Classic, has established itself in this desert region known for Canadian snowbirds and anyone wanting to get out of the cold weather during the winter. This year the event hit aces with springlike temperatures in the mid-80—some of the warmest in recent memory for this tournament. Once again the theme of health and wellness was promoted as the Clinton Foundation Health Matters conference got
Bubba Watson enjoying the sunshine
the tournament started with a number of very informative panels on healthy lifestyles and closing the health divide in this country between the haves and have not’s. With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act this year, much of the conversation at this conference centered on how healthcare can be utilized more efficiently and help more people. Again, much of the look and feel of this event pointed towards the theme of health, with Humana providing health assessments at its mobile wellness center. And the golf played by the professionals was just as hot as the weather. One of the rising stars—Patrick Reed—shot 63 each of the first three days to set a Tour record and take a 7-stroke lead into the final round before easing up and winning by just two to become only the second wire-to-wire winner in the event’s 55-year history. Hot golf and hot temperatures followed in February at the Northern Trust Open at Riviera Country Club in the Los Angeles suburb of Pacific Palisades where more unseasonal temperatures greeted players and fans in this event that is one of the oldest in
Northern Trust Open
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Former President Bill Clinton and Gary Player
professional golf dating back to 1926. While the theme at Riviera was that of a celebration of its Hollywood past (and present), this iconic course located just a mile from the Pacific Ocean set the stage for a Sunday shootout as former Masters champion Bubba Watson came from behind with 64’s on both Saturday and Sunday to set a tournament record and outpace Dustin Johnson by two strokes. The Northern Trust Open, like the Humana Challenge, is another one of those winter PGA Tour stops that has undergone a transformation over the past few years and appears to have some new-found vitality with the City of Hope as its chief beneficiary and much more communityservice and corporate involvement. Two-time champion Fred Couples has also come on board to serve as an ambassador for the Northern Trust Open and should even further enhance the prestige of this tournament that annually ends the California portion of the Tour’s winter schedule. But the real winners of these two events have been the fans and followers who escaped any semblance of a winter this year and enjoyed some of the best golf-watching in memory. It wasn’t that long ago when the Humana Challenge was forced to end on a Monday because of rain delays and Riviera experienced so much precipitation that the final two rounds had to be condensed into a one-hole playoff in a driving rainstorm. But those times seemed like a distance memory this year, so while much of the nation was shoveling snow, out West the worst that could be said was that they were shoveling sunshine—and there was plenty of it.
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Bubba Watson hoisting his trophy
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HEALTHYGAME
by DR. ROBERT S. BISCUP
‘Back’ to Playing Golf
O
ne might ask, “what does playing golf have to do with spinal medicine and surgery?” Or, “why is a spine surgeon taking about playing golf?” The answer is simple. Most of us are living longer and healthier lives due to advancements in modern medicine and surgery, as well as our enhanced understanding of the aging process. There is also the belief that we stay healthy because we stay active, both physically and mentally. In my practice, all patients are encouraged to pick up, or resume, a recreational sport as part of their treatment even after spine surgery, including golf. Why golf? Let’s break down the components of a typical golf outing. First, one must be able to walk in order to address their ball. Next, proper posture with strong core muscles is essential to stand and assume proper golf posture. Further, strong upper extremity muscles are required to manipulate the clubs. And
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finally, good balance is essential to avoid failing. All of this, coupled with mental focus, concentration, relaxation, and plain enjoyment, paint a picture of an active and healthy life experience that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of age, sex, or race. It is important to realize that degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis (to name a few) will affect 90% of the population sometime in their lifetime requiring treatment. Degenerative conditions involving our bones, joints, muscles, supporting soft tissue structures and our nervous system are progressive and generally continue through the various stages of life. There are presently no cures for any of these conditions. Hence, we must treat the problems rather than promise cures. The various treatments that we use include medications, pain management and injection procedures, surgery, physical
therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation. In most cases we are able to effectively treat these problems, which should reduce or eliminate pain, as well as improve function. Once a patient completes the treatment program, the all too important element of wellness and health maintenance comes into play, which is often overlooked by many. This is where engaging in an enjoyable recreational sport will help to maintain and further enhance these benefits and hopefully prevent future problems from occurring. The name of the game is staying physically fit, active, and mentally focused on health and well being. The inevitable result for most is the ability to continue the pursuit of our passions. For more information on this and other topics related to spinal medicine and surgery, please visit www.biscupspine.com. Dr. Robert S. Biscup, M.S., D.O., F.A.O.A.O. is Director of Biscup Spine Institute in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS largest expansion since opening in 1993. Spa Ssakwa’q’n, a 15,000 square-foot, full-service spa popular with golfers, was also unveiled and features an open-air pool in a special coed area, cedar saunas, 10 treatment rooms and a tea lounge. To book a tee time or stay-and-play package, or for more information, call 800523-2464 or visit www.cdacasino.com/golf.
PREMIER GOLF TO AWARD FREE TRIP TO 2014 RYDER CUP IN SCOTLAND
CIRCLING RAVEN GOLF CLUB IN WORLEY, IDAHO NAMED “BEST CASINO COURSE”
WORLEY, ID – Circling Raven Golf Club (www.cdacasino.com/golf) – located in Northern Idaho and an amenity of Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel – was recently recognized as a “Best Casino Course” in America by Golfweek magazine. The critical acclaim is one of many awards Circling Raven has garnered during the past 12 months. It was also included in Golf Digest’s biennial “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” list and earned a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence distinction for exceptional hospitality. “We are honored to be acknowledged as a premier course and resort destination,” says Circling Raven Director of Golf Tom Davidson, PGA. “The Coeur d’Alene Tribe applies enlightened passion and brings resources to ensure our guests are pleased by all they encounter here – whether it’s the golf course and casino or our spa, rooms and restaurants.” Set on 620 pristine acres, the Gene Bates design is tribally owned and operated. Green fees at Circling Raven are less than $100 during the peak season and start at $65 during “shoulder seasons,” making it one of the best value courses in the country. Spring Stay-and-Play Packages (through May 16) start at just $199 on weekdays and include one-night accommodation at Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort (double occupancy), green fees for two players, GPS, cart and use of Circling Raven’s expansive practice area. In 2011 the resort added two new dining options – Chinook Steak, Pasta & Sprits and Red Tail Bar and Grill – as well as nearly 100 opulent guest rooms as part of its seventh and
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DULUTH, GA – Premier Golf – the exclusive provider of North American Ryder Cup packages inclusive of tickets since 1991 – will choose one person to win a free package for two to the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles in Scotland, September 24-29. Fans of the Premier Golf Facebook page can enter the sweepstakes, which runs through April 9, 2014, by visiting http:// facebook.upickem.net/r/6pnU4nHsn3f. Registration for the random drawing is also available for free at www.premiergolf.com. The grand prize includes: Ryder Cup Season Ticket (valid Thursday-Sunday) for two Five nights’ accommodations Welcome cocktail reception Full Scottish breakfast daily Official Ryder Cup ground transportation to and from Gleneagles Ryder Cup gift All taxes “We are excited to give away this package to one of our fans and provide them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Jim Ward, President of Premier Golf. “The last two Ryder Cups have each been lost by just one point so we’re looking forward to sending a pair of passionate golf fans to Scotland to see America try to win back the Cup.” A licensed partner of the PGA of America for 25 years, Premier Golf has sent more than 25,000 people to the Ryder Cup. The company offers exclusive Ryder Cup experiences to Gleneagles, starting at $3,900 per person. “A la carte” golf packages that include tee times at some of the most iconic courses in Scotland are also available, providing on-site assistance, transfers to and from the course, and more. Premier Golf is a division of Travel Incorporated, one of America’s 10 largest travel companies, and provides experienced travel services to some of the world’s classic international and U.S. destinations, including Bandon Dunes, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Kohler and PGA Village. For more details, or to receive a free package quote, visit www.premiergolf.com or call 866.260.4409.
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS PAIRS IN PARADISE SCHEDULED FOR JULY 18-25 IN COSTA RICA Landy Blank of Costa Rica Golf Adventures has announced plans for a Pairs in Paradise Golf Tournament July 18-25 in Costa Rica. “It will be open to couples, two men or two women who want to partner up,” Blank said. The schedule calls for arrival on July 18 in Liberia and an overnight stay at the nearby Hilton Garden Inn. “This will allow participants the chance to play the Four Seasons golf course the following day,” Blank said. “The Arnold Palmer design offers spectacular vistas of the Pacific Ocean and is the best course in Costa Rica.” Then participants will transfer to the Westin Playa Conchal for the remaining six days where they will get a practice round and play the 36-hole tournament on the Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed Reserva Conchal Golf Course. “The Westin is all-inclusive with all meals, beverages and alcohol included,” Blank added. James McAfee, who was director of golf at that course when it was called Garra de Leon at Melia Playa Conchal and a former tournament administrator in Texas, will serve as the tournament director. “When asked my favorite course, I always answer that Reserva Conchal remains my favorite course and believe that all participants will enjoy the chance to play it themselves,” said McAfee. For additional details on Pairs in Paradise, contact McAfee at onthetee18@msn.com or Blank at landy2255@gmail.com.
PGA GOLF CLUB UNVEILS GOLFER-FRIENDLY “BOOK ONLINE AND SAVE” PROGRAM PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – PGA Golf Club today unveiled a friendly, yet sophisticated, state-of-the-art online reservation system, that enables golfers to easily “Book Online and Save”
on advanced tee times via the web and mobilephone applications. Resort golf customers are now able to reserve their rounds at the facility as much as six months in advance, a tremendous expansion from the previous 45-day booking window. Designed by Golfswitch, the new yield management system is similar in its structure to what is used in both the hotel and airline industries, which will enable golfers instant access to discounts during times of excess supply. When offered, these discounts can vary depending on season, weather and even time of day. Rounds can be reserved either on PGAVillage.com or PGA Golf Club’s mobile app: https://mobile.golfhub.com/PVV/. “As a popular golf resort destination, we want to make it as easy as possible for golfers to reserve their rounds both online and by mobile phone, in order to have access to the widest pool of tee times available at a price that reflects supply and demand,” said PGA Golf Club General Manager Jimmy Terry. “PGA Golf Club’s new ‘Book Online and Save’ yield management system is dedicated to bringing you the best discount we offer for that round, should it be available. This also gives you the opportunity to reserve your rounds much sooner than before, as the booking engine now allows resort reservations 180 days in advance, so you can plan your trip to PGA Golf Club early and often.” Located an hour north of West Palm Beach, PGA Golf Club at PGA Village in Port St. Lucie, Fla., is a pure golf resort destination that features three diverse, challenging layouts along Florida’s Treasure Coast by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye. The Wanamaker Course by Fazio provides a stunning backdrop against breathtaking palm trees and palmettos. His distinct Carolina touch is also evident on the Ryder Course with rolling hills, majestic pines and challenging water hazards. Weaving through 100 acres of wetlands, the Dye Course is a links-style layout with pine straw rough, vast coquina waste bunkers and
grass-based bunkers. The nearby 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance provides the ultimate learning environment for players of all levels. With 100 swing stations and nine bunker types simulating play worldwide, the acclaimed facility is an ideal destination to tune up for the 2014 season. Also onsite is the PGA Museum of Golf, which features golf’s most storied trophies; Donald Ross’ workbench from circa 1900; vast Ryder Cup and PGA Championship memorabilia; a tribute to 2013 PGA Champion Jason Dufner; and the PGA Golf Professional Hall of Fame. Guests receive complimentary admission. Discounts are not applicable for membership and frequent play programs through “Book Online and Save.” For more information please visit PGAVillage.com; and to learn more about the PGA of America, logon to PGAMediaCenter.com.
FINGER LAKES GOLF SPRING SPECIALS Let Finger Lakes tourism take care of your drive this spring with a $50 gas card. Finger Lakes Visitors Connection and area golf courses invite guests to immerse themselves in great golf in the Finger Lakes. And, visitors don’t have to worry if they aren’t able to take a mulligan on their tee-shot; we guarantee it here. Play one of two exceptional courses in the Finger Lakes. Ravenwood Golf Club is a championship golf course that has hosted the 2003 and 2009 New York State Golf Championships, as well as the 2004 U.S. Open Qualifier. And Bristol Harbour is a Robert Trent Jones-designed course, known for its championship layout and amazing views of Canandaigua Lake. Packages start at $159 per person based on double occupancy. The golf getaway includes: One night of overnight accommodations at either: Ravenwood Golf Club and Holiday
Westin Playa Conchal
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Inn Express & Suites in Victor, NY. Or, Bristol Harbour Resort and the Bristol Harbour Resort Hotel in Canandaigua, NY. Two days of unlimited golf, cart (range included) (All carts equipped with either Prolink GPS or Uplink GPS. Lunch at the course $50 gas card per twosome The Free Mulligans on Your Drive package is valid Sunday thru Thursday, April 1st or (course open) until May 22, 2014. For more information, visit www. visitfingerlakes.com/golf.
MAGDALENA GRAND BEACH & GOLF RESORT OFFERS 20% DISCOUNT AT TOBAGO PLANTATIONS GOLF COURSE SCARBOROUGH, Tobago - Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort in Tobago (www.MagdalenaGrand.com) provides hotel guests a 20% savings on rounds of golf and package prices at the newly refurbished 18hole Tobago Plantations Golf Course, which is operated by the resort. Golfers can hit the links at Tobago Plantations with daily rates (nine holes for $48, 18 holes for $72) and multi-day packages including a two-day/round package for $136 per person, four-day/rounds package for $260 per person and seven-day/rounds package for
$432 per person. Couples can also purchase packages including a six-day, 12-rounds package for $740 per couple and a 10-day, 20-rounds option for $1,160 per couple. Magdalena Grand guests can take lessons through the on-site golf academy with a halfhour lesson ($50 per person), one-hour lesson ($90 per person), nine-hole playing lesson ($150 per person) and 18-hole playing lesson ($270 per person). Golfers can practice their short game on the pitching and putting greens while enhancing their swing at the driving range with small and large buckets of balls available for $5 - $10 each. The club house, situated between the first and tenth tees, features a pro shop, club room lounge, shoes and club rental, changing rooms, classrooms and golf bag storage. The club house restaurant - Fairways Bar & Grill - offers a comprehensive food and beverage menu. The Tobago Plantations Golf Course is a Par-72, 18-hole course that has been woven into the landscape of Tobago Plantations Estate, a gated community of luxury villas, condos and bungalows. The recent refurbishment project, which was completed in December 2013, upgraded the course to Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) standards.
In addition to enhancements on the course, the resort purchased new golf carts, pro shop merchandise, and food and beverage equipment. Opened in 2001, the golf course has been modified to utilize indigenous plants and increase the habitat diversity for wildlife. There are characteristic pot bunkers sunk into the greensides and a Par 4 that heads out on the peninsula where the Atlantic Ocean breeze comes into play and golfers can enjoy panoramic views of Scarborough, the capital of Tobago. The course played host to the 2004 Senior European Tour. The Tobago Plantations Golf Course is a PGA designed course created by Bob Hunt and Marcus Blackburn of PGA Golf Management Ltd., a design, development and management arm of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Great Britain and Ireland. The course meets Championship standards and is a certified member of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System, an environmental program offered by Audubon International. In addition, the course has received certification for its environmental planning. For further details about golf package options, email golf@magdalenagrand. com, call 868-387-0288 or visit www. MagdalenaGrand.com.
Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort
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Hyatt Regency Hill C
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Country Resort & Spa
By David R. Holland
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S
AN ANTONIO, TX – Ed Wiseman first walked the land that is now home to the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa in 1933 as a young cowboy from LaVernia in Wilson County, Texas -- a place his family had farmed and ranched since 1851. But Wiseman found this 2,700 acres in west San Antonio even more special than his home. He fell in love with its creeks, steep wildflower-covered hillsides, rocky ravines, rolling meadows, redbuds and live oaks on shady plateaus, serene lakes and ponds. In 1990, the Rogers-Wiseman family, with more than 100 years managing the land, sold 200 acres for the development of the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort. Today, you can walk the land that was once the Rogers-Wiseman Ranch, but this version has lavishness. The Hill Country Golf Club, located on the 300-acre grounds, features three nine-hole courses appropriately named the Lakes (3,502 yards, par 36), Oaks (3,438, par 36) and Creeks (3,429, par 36). Hospitality is sold here, too, with such dining establishments as Antlers Lodge, Cactus Oak Tavern, Papa Ed’s Pool Bar and Grill, Charlie’s Long Bar and Springhouse Cafe – all which tell the history of the ranch. Walk the halls and find more history hanging on the walls.
leisurely round. Golfers walk away with a good feeling.” Pat Roper, who just arrived from California as one of the golf professionals, noticed the peace and quiet first. Golfers like the western cowboy theme with the barn wood, the Hill Country architecture, windmill symbols and they like the conditions of the golf course
One gets Four-Diamond pampering, the Windflower Spa and four-acre swimming experience.
“The Oaks nine has lots of angles to deal with,” said Roper. “No. 3 is a 328-yard, par four, a big dogleg right so a driver is not always the play. You just have to be positioned correctly or the approach is blocked out by the live oaks.”
Designer Arthur Hill’s signature greens offer up the subtle contours that challenge even the best players. “Every hole is presented before you, there are no tricks or gimmicks,” says Mike Champagne, the course’s director of golf. “This is an extremely playable layout that makes for a
No. 9 on the Oaks nine is a strategic par five at 549 yards. The drive must find the fairway between the forest of live oaks then thread the next shot over a ravine before coming to a lake and green that wraps around the back of the water.
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will block the approach to green guarded left by bunkers and right by a contoured putting surface. Roper agrees all three nines have fairly difficult putting complexes that include roll-offs, bumps and collection areas. GPS-equipped golf carts serve as your electronic caddy, complete with illustrations of each hole in color, accurate yardage to the pin, key hazards, playing tips, and even score keeping. Each golf cart is also equipped with yardage books, ball mark repair tools, tees, ball markers, a beverage cooler, a club and ball washer, and towels for your comfort. The caddy in the sky allows you to communicate with the pro shop for assistance or to order lunch on the green.
“The Lake nine is a little more open and user friendly,” Roper continued. “And I’ve found the Creeks nine is similar to the Oaks where you must be in the correct spots to score well.” There are back to back holes on the Lakes nine that will challenge you. No. 6 is a 563-yard, par five, has water left at the start and right toward the green. A deep, natural dry creek twists down the fairway’s left side then bisects the hole, affecting both the drive and the second shot. From a narrow landing area with fairway traps on the right and a lake on the left, the third shot plays across or cuts the corner of a lake to an elevated green carved into a hillside, 563 yards from the tee. Then the seventh, a 418-yard, par four requires a long carry over a lake, cutting off as much of the angled fairway that you can. If you nail a drive you will have a short approach. But if you drive it too far left, trees
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Golf lessons are available with golf programs for all levels even the family can learn together. The Hill Country Golf Club offers a family friendly golf program where you can learn the game without playing the regulation distance course. The philosophy is to encourage beginners and families with children to learn the game of golf in a relaxed atmosphere. Beginning families can play from the “Hill Country Family Express” tees, located at a shortened distance. The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa has everything for a springtime or summer getaway. You may be just minutes from downtown San Antonio and across the street from Seaworld, but you will think you are on a country getaway from from the hustle and bustle of big city life. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive • San Antonio, Texas 78251 http://hillcountry.hyatt.com
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Waterfall and Koi - Anderson Japanese Gardens
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Rockford, Illinois
Cross Over The Bridge O ver the past 700 years thousands of professional and amateur golfers have crossed over the famed Swilcan Bridge separating the 1st and 18th holes on St. Andrews world famous Old Course. Now you can do the same without having to span the Atlantic to visit Scotland. Well, almost. You can cross over a replica of the bridge when you play golf at one of Illinois’ top public courses, the Aldeen Golf Club in Rockford, Illinois. In 1991 with land and “seed” money donated to the City of Rockford to build the course, Norris and Margaret Aldeen succeeded in their desire to provide a high quality yet affordable golf club for Rockford residents, their families and visitors to the Rockford area. The Aldeen Golf Club is a public course with a private course feel at very reasonable public rate prices. It has narrow manicured tree-lined bent grass fairways with water coming in to play on 12 holes. Its greens,
also bent grass, are smooth and fast with subtle breaks.
A championship par 72 course, with six sets of tees ranging from 5075 to 7131 yards, “Aldeen” as it is affectionately known, is an outstanding course for golfers of all ages and skills. It has been recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the top 50 courses in the US priced under $50; was voted the #1 Municipal Course in Illinois in 2009 by Golf Digest and has hosted the 2001 and 2013 Illinois State Men’s Amateur Championships and the 2004 Illinois State Women’s Amateur Championship. My two favorite holes when playing the Aldeen course were the 536yard Par 5 eighteenth hole which has a lake on the left running almost from tee to green and the Par 3 island green eighth hole with its replica of the Swilcan Bridge. When I walked across the bridge it brought back memories of Jack Nicklaus standing on St. Andrew’s famed bridge as he gave his final farewell to professional golf.
Story by Chuck “The Traveling Guy” Miller
Jack Nicklaus and his famous Swilcan Bridge farewell
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The Aldeen Golf Club
Complementing its outstanding course, The Aldeen Golf Club has a 26-acre lighted Practice Centre with the same type of bent grass fairways and shaped greens, trees and rough areas so you can “practice like you play”. It also has Noonan’s restaurant known for burgers, brews and great views of the eighteenth hole. In addition to the Aldeen Golf Club, Rockford has four other golf courses operated by the Rockford Park District including Sandy Hollow, a casual municipal course that lives up to its slogan, “Your Game Is Our Business”.
Sandy Hollow, which opened on July 4, 1929 is a traditional parkland course with heavily forested tree-lined fairways. Although it has only two sets of tees, White at 6228 yards and Red at 5883 yards, don’t let the course length fool you. With trees, trees, trees everywhere, strategically placed fairway bunkers, numerous left and right dog legs and hard fast greens, accuracy rather than length is important. Sandy Hollow is a delightful course with plenty of challenges including a 220-yard Par 3 and a 583-yard Par 5. Before or after golf you can enjoy a quick lunch or beverage in the café, grill and bar.
Sandy Hollow
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Forest City Queen River Boat
When on vacation in Rockford, there are a multitude of things to see and do when not playing golf. It is a city of gardens, rivers, family friendly museums, unique shops and fun restaurants. Established 1834, and known as the “Forest City”, Rockford is “Real and Original”. Touring the Midway Village, and its 148-acre museum campus with 26 structures and gardens representing a rural community during the era 1890-1910, is a fun experience. The Village holds the largest World War II re-enactment in the US, has one of the seven exact replicas of the Liberty Bell and has a wonderful display about the Rockford Peaches, Rockford’s team in the women’s fast pitch team league upon which the movie “League of Their Own” was based. In Rockford, you can take in a play or musical performance at the opulent Coronado Performing Arts Center which was built in 1927 as a
movie palace and vaudeville hall and totally restored in 2000. You can have a relaxing day enjoying nature along the Rock River when visiting the Sinnissippi Riverfront site of the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens with 22,000 square feet of total space including an 11,000 square foot glass exhibition area housing species of plants, tall grass, and trees from all over the world. You can walk, run or bike ride along the 10 mile Rock River Recreation Path or take a Rock River boat ride on the historic Forest City Queen. Both children and grown-ups can see Jane, the world-famous juvenile T-rex dinosaur when visiting the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Ice skaters and hockey fans can enjoy the Carlson Ice Arena, a 200 x 85 foot ice rink with seating for 600 spectators. For shoppers in the family, Rockford has a wide variety of oppor-
Trolley Car #36
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Sandy Hollow
Sandy Hollow
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tunities including small boutique stores, major chain department stores and the unique Crimson Village, which has a complete shopping experience with something for everyone. Motorcycle enthusiasts will marvel at Kegel Harley Davidson, the world’s oldest family owned Harley Davidson Dealer having begun selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 1910. Recognized in 1998 as the #1 Harley Davidson Dealership in the US, it offers motorcycle sales, parts, service, clothes, home gear and a fun Harley Diner. An absolute must when in Rockford is a visit to the Anderson Japanese Gardens, 12 ½ acres of walking paths, koi pools, streams, waterfalls, and an authentic tea house and guest house. Once the home of Rockford residents Linda and John Anderson, it is the #1 Japanese Garden in North America. When eating out, you can have an outstanding meal indoors or outdoors at Garrett’s, the excellent full service restaurant adjacent to the
large and well stocked Golf Shack retail golf shop near the Aldeen Golf Club. When your want to kick back and enjoy a cold craft beer, you can sit and relax at the Prairie Street Brewhouse located on the shores of the Rock River. If you would like to eat at a restaurant that echoes Rockford’s Swedish heritage, dine at the Stockholm Inn. If you are there for breakfast, be sure and have Swedish pancakes with imported lingonberries. Over a half million are served a year and they are delicious. For a clean, comfortable and convenient hotel in Rockford, I heartily recommend the Hilton Garden Inn. There you will enjoy freshly baked cookies and the casualness of Giovanni’s Bar and Restaurant which serves excellent buffet breakfasts and lunches. For additional information about golf, places to see and things to do in Rockford, go to www.gorockford.com or call the Rockford Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-521-0849. And remember, when golfing in Rockford, don’t forget to Cross Over The Bridge.
Sandy Hollow
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Sewailo Golf Club at
Flower power combin at Tucson’s newest c
Hole #8 facing Hotel & Casino
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Casino Del Sol Resort
nes with brain power casino golf resort
By David R.
Holland
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UCSON, AZ – Sewailo Golf Club at Casino Del Sol Resort head pro Spencer Cody laughed when he recalled hearing a quote dished out to a regional golf magazine editor by course superintendent Jonathan Williams. Williams said that the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s new Notah Begay IIITy Butler-designed golf course was a story of two Johnsons – Zach and Dustin. “We gave Williams a hard time when we read the quote,” said Cody, “but his words ring pretty true. Some holes you have a chance to challenge the fairway bunkers that are strategically placed by overpowering them (like Dustin), but sometimes you just need to avoid them (like Zach).” Sewailo Golf Club, a 7,282-yard, par 72, is the first golf course to open in Tucson since The Golf Club at Dove Mountain, former home to the WGC-Accenture Match Play. That was five years ago and now the Match Play is leaving town. The course is more parkland than typical Arizona target golf thanks to the tribe’s access to the Central Arizona Project water under rights owned by the tribe providing 325 million gallons of water per year --
four to five times that of the average Arizona course. Multiple streams and creeks with four waterfalls were designed to be as natural looking as possible. You won’t think of Donald Trump when you see these flowing waters. Sewailo means ‘flower world’and the course is loaded with more than 30,000 plants and native flowers salvaged during construction and the planting of thousands more including a few saguaros here and there. The flower world includes xeroscape, water reduction plantings, that certainly follows the theme of the golf course. Among the plants are wildflowers, including brittlebush, a desert shrub in the sunflower family. It blooms yellow in the early spring. Along the No. 9 ad 18 corridor more than 500 rose bushes were planted with 80 pyracanthas lining one bank. Planted trees include pine, Texas mountain laurel, weeping willows, palo verde, mesquite and flowering evergreens. In a year or two, as the native areas fill in, the course could very well be one of the most colorful outside of Aviara near San Diego. Sewailo Golf Club: Use brain power before you hit “Players tell us they love the conditioning, the wide fairways, the
Hole #3 facing Black Mountain
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challenge and the nearly 14 acres of lakes,” said Spencer, “but most say the water is not over-powering.” Most agree this course follows a crescendo. Take advantage of the first hole and the front nine because things get harder. The 364-yard first hole takes finesse because a stream crosses the fairway 50 yards short of an enormous undulating double green (shared by the eighth green, 23,900 square feet), but the second hole is a go for it 360-yard par four. The most talked about hole is the double-dogleg No. 10, a 638-yard, par five. “It requires an accurate drive to avoid a lake on the right,” said Cody, “and I never dream of reaching this green in two. Aim at the middle bunker on the left that is about 305 yards and then hit a six iron on the second shot. That will leave you 110 to 115 yards for the third shot.” Even though the GPS is very helpful, having an experienced playing partner like Vice President of Sales Mark Scheller is priceless on your first journey through this desert. This is definitely a golf course where you must think about your shot, gather information and place it correctly. Just a matter of feet can produce an A position drive. Five feet right
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of the correct landing spot can result in a drive careening down a slope right in to a lake. Talk about the difference in muttering and smiling. Also try and avoid the 67 bunkers, many of which are deep and perilous. Sewailo will also host the first Jack Nicklaus Academy of Golf in Arizona, offering programs for individuals, groups, golf schools, corporations, and the community. The course features an extensive driving range and practice areas for chipping, bunker play, and putting. In addition, Sewailo is the home course for the University of Arizona’s mens and womens varsity teams. Callaway Golf equipment rentals and instructional programs make this experience noteworthy. Troon Golf, the best at what it does, manages Sewailo and the course is open to casino resort guests and the general public. Luxury and fun at Casino Del Sol Resort Since opening its resort tower in 2011, Casino Del Sol Resort has been an award-winner. It has become one of the most decorated casino resort properties in Arizona, earning the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star award for its resort, Hiapsi Spa and P.Y. Steakhouse; AAA Four Diamond status for the overall resort; and the Wine Spectator award for P.Y. Steakhouse.
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Hole #18 facing hotel & Casino
Don’t miss the dining experience at PY Steakhouse, but the resort has numerous great places to have breakfast, lunch and dinner. Accommodations are comfy, upscale and deliver expansive views of the pool area and golf course. Casino Del Sol Resort, located in the southwest edge of Tucson not far from the airport, also offers guests and
players alike a state-of-the-art conference center with breakout rooms, Hiapsi Spa, Oasis pool and bar, two casinos, and AVA outdoor amphitheater. For more information about Casino Del Sol Resort or Sewailo Golf Club, visit casinodelsol.com.
Hole #18 at dusk
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SWEETSTUFF T aylorMade golf has once again pushed the envelope for playability with the introduction of its JetSpeed line of woods that are both long and very easy to hit. Incorporating a re-designed and smaller Speed Pocket just behind the face of the club to promote ball speed and more favorable launch conditions, these new clubs appear to be the most user friendly that the company has ever produced, which is saying a lot. The fairway and Rescue models in this new lineup have a lower center of gravity making this one of the easiest model of clubs to hit because weight saved by the new Speed Pocket design is redistributed strategically within the clubhead to move the CG lower and more
tunity to increase their launch angle and reduce their spin-rate, which ultimately leads to more distance.” Five fairway wood lofts are available: 3 wood (15 degree), 3HL (17 degree), 5 wood (19 degree), 5HL (21 degree) and 7 wood (23 degree). For the Rescue’s, which also features the Matrix Velox T shaft in weights ranging from 75 grams down to 45 grams--depending on the shaft flex. There are four lofts available: 3 (19 degree), 4 (22 degree), 5 (25 degree) and 6 (28 degree). The driver version of the JetSpeed is the first one that TaylorMade has produced with the Speed Pocket, and it promotes less spin at greater ball speeds on shots struck below the center of the clubface—equaling more distance. The driver also has TaylorMade’s Loft-Sleeve technology that allows golfers to adjust the loft 1.5 degree up or down to dial in their optimal launch conditions using a custom-made wrench. With the new low-forward CG location, spin is dramatically reduced so players can get greater distances with higher lofted clubs. A spin rate of 1700 RPM together with a launch angle of 17 degrees is optimal, according to TaylorMade engineers. More information is available at: www.taylormadegolf.com
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forward, a location that TaylorMade has proven promotes faster ball speeds and lower spin. JetSpeed fairways and Rescues reduce spin by 200-300 RPM compared to previous models to promote more distance. The re-designed low-profile head makes it easier to make contact with the clubface below the ball’s equator, making it easier to launch the ball on a high, long-carrying flight and easier to get the ball in the air off the turf. A new stream-line look featuring a matte black crown with a unique decal helps with the face alignment at address, and reduces glare and provide a nice contrast to the silver clubface. The improved Speed Pocket is also filled with a polymer that keeps debris out, but also improves turf interaction while absorbing unwanted vibration without slowing down the clubface. Besides being long and easy to control, there is a feeling of confidence with the Matrix Velox T 69 shaft that works very well with this sleek-looking club. Although it is a slightly heavier shaft than TaylorMade has used in its previous fairway woods, the added control is very evident with this change and the company has hit a home run with these innovations. “We expect ‘low and forward CG’ to represent the next great innovation in metalwood performance,” said Sean Toulon, Executive Vice President at TaylorMade. “We’re giving golfers of all types the oppor-
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he trend in golf footwear these days is finding the combination of comfort and stability to support the modern swing. FootJoy, which has been a leader for both professional and recreational players in the popularity of their products, has hit a bulls eye with their latest high-end shoe called D.N.A. (DryJoys Next Advancement). The DryJoys franchise has been one of the company’s most successful shoe line, but FootJoy calls this the most technically advanced shoe it has ever produced with a low profile and a glove-like feel that is one of the lightest and softest on the market. “To create the most feature-laden golf shoe in our storied history, we needed to explore the anatomy, or DNA, of our premium footwear products and then scrutinize every aspect throughout the design and development process,” said Doug Robinson, Vice President of Design and Development Worldwide for FootJoy. “Every material and every component was carefully considered in order to deliver a shoe with lightweight stability, a precise fit, superior feel and ultimate performance.” In addition to being super-soft, this shoe also provides a very stable base for the swing and a great feel for the ground. The fit is extraordinary featuring the all-new ChromoSkin Leather System by Pittards® of England, one of the premiere suppliers of high performance leather in the world. This unique full grain leather system is supple, lightweight, thin-yet-durable and completely waterproof. By using this premium leather, the wearer will experience tremendous breathability and will find the upper will conform to their feet for a precise custom fit. Two other important features that are critical for the feel of this shoe is the soft-padded 3D FoamCollar that molds to your ankle for ideal comfort, fit and support. Locking your ankle in place eliminates any movement of the foot--a situation that can lead to discomfort and power-reduction during the swing. The SnugFit tongue is engineered utilizing very thin, soft and breathable materials-- including MicroVent™ technology--in order to properly conform to the top of the foot to provide superb fit and an incredibly comfortable in-shoe environment.
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SWEETSTUFF by TerryRoss
The sturdy toe box that provides ample room in the forefoot area is well-designed and allows for a fit that is not too snug—but just right. In order to achieve the sleek, low-profile look of D.N.A., the midsole was moved inside the shoe. FTF™ (Fine-Tuned Foam), a new proprietary cushioning material, is used throughout the interior midsole also known as the FitBed. In order to achieve in-shoe stability as well as premium cushioning, two densities of FTF were utilized--a firmer density for stability around the perimeter of the FitBed and a softer density in the heel and forefoot providing industry-leading in-shoe comfort. This is a shoe that actually feels broken in right out of the box. On the outside, an all-new NitroThin TPU outsole has been in development for several years, undergoing numerous rounds of testing and technical modifications. The result is a super thin-yet-strong chassis that frames the soft, FTF internal midsole, delivering the perfect combination of rigidity and flexibility for maximum on-course performance. Adam Scott, the defending Master’s champion and currently ranked second in the world, has been wearing the shoe in competition since last fall during the President’s Cup and his wins in Australia. D.N.A. is available in seven color combinations, predominantly white, grey and black, and also has a white/grey version with the BOA lacing system. FootJoy has also just introduced another high-end product aimed an improved foot comfort and performance with the unveiling of the FJ Tour Compression™ Golf Sock that is really a cut above when it comes to keeping feet fresh. This is more of a sheer sock than some of the previous models from FJ, but with the compression element and advanced fabrics gives needed support to important areas of the foot such as the arch and ankle. These targeted points feature state-ofthe-art fabric and advanced design characteristics with a contoured fit, anatomically shaped foot-beds with a designated R and L sock, DrySof moisture control technology and a ComfortSeam™ toe enclosure. Breathable mesh construction over the areas of the foot that let off the most heat boosts ventilation and air circulation. In addition to making feet feel fresher after hours on the course because of the compression characteristics, the new design of the
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crew version of this sock actually goes over the calf to provide extra support and reduces leg fatigue and soreness. The FJ Tour Compression comes in both the high crew and the Sport (low-cut) styles in both black and white colors. For more information: www.footjoy.com
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