Our
THIS MONTH: MY TURN I SWEET STUFF I CHIPSHOTS I DESTINATIONS
9th
Year!
GOLF VACATIONS JULY 2011
PALMBEACHSUMMER! THE BREAKERS RESORT
FLORIDA ELEGANCE AND STYLE
PGA NATIONAL RESORT GOLF AS GOOD AS IT GETS
PLUS: Catalina Island I Hilton Head’s Sea Pines Resort
• All Suite Hotel • Just Minutes Away From World Class Golf Courses • Complimentary Full Breakfast Every Morning • Sunday through Thursday Complimentary Hosted Reception • Stay & Play Golf Packages
Ask for th e
Golf Vaca tions Magazine Special Ra te
36999 Cook Street • Palm Desert
760-568-1600
www.palmdesert.homewoodsuites.com
*Discount does not apply to gift cards or certificates, same-day delivery, shipping and handling, taxes, third-party hosted products (e.g. wine), or BoseÂŽ products. Discount will appear upon checkout and cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Offer expires 8/31/2011.
[MRI PSZIVW
gifts for
Whether they’re serious about wine or just getting started, our wide selection of gifts will tastefully complement even the most distinguished wine cellar.
great gifts starting at
19
$
95 +s/h
save
an additional
20
%
wine decanter & developer
To redeem this offer, go to
www.RedEnvelope.com/actnow
or call 1.866.754.1066 stainless steel wine stoppers
wine dossier
wine tasting party
Exclusive offer for guests at Central Missouri’s The Lodge of Four Seasons
MASTER GOLF TOUR Jack Nicklaus - Robert Trent Jones Sr. - Arnold Palmer - Tom Weiskopf - Ken Kavanaugh
porto cima DESIGNED BY JACK NICKLAUS
osage national
old kinderhook
the ridge
the cove
DESIGNED BY ARNOLD PALMER
DESIGNED BY TOM WEISKOPF
DESIGNED BY KEN KAVANAUGH
DESIGNED BY ROBERT TRENT JONES SR
You pick how many of these world class golf courses you want to play, how many nights you want to stay, then go online to www.4SeasonsResort.com and we’ll help set up your own personal MASTER GOLF TOUR. Pack your bags, it’s easy, quick, and lots of fun!
THE LODGE of FOUR SEASONS G O L F
R E S O R T
&
Click here to go to www.4SeasonsResort.com IN COOPERATION WITH THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS GOLF COUNCIL
S PA
S H I K I
contents I july 2011
cover
stories
14
PALM BEACH SUMMER! The Breakers
20
Hilton Head’s Sea Pines Resort Has It All
24
Catalina Island: Fun Golf Just Out To Sea
30
14
by David R. Holland
Legends are often embellished, like the day in 1900 Harry Vardon arrived on a steamship, docked at The Breakers, and played his first round of golf in the USA at Florida’s oldest 18-hole golf course – the Ocean Course.
by JD Latorre
Heralded as one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay” by Condé Nast Traveler, The Sea Pines Resort is steeped in southern tradition and blessed with lovely Lowcountry landscapes.
by Chuck Miller, “The Traveling Guy”
20
Tiger Woods, Corey Pavin and Craig Stadler, along with many Hollywood celebrities, sports figures and regular week day and weekend golfers have golfed Catalina Island Golf Course.
PALM BEACH SUMMER! PGA National by David Wood
This legendary South Florida vacation spot’s vaunted resume includes hosting the 1983 Ryder Cup, 1987 PGA Championship, and nearly two decades of the Senior PGA Championship.
departments 9 ChipShots Updates From The World Of Golf & Travel
24
13 Destinations Your Link To Great Resort Golf Locales
34 Sweet Stuff
by Terry Ross
SensoGlove, Capital Soleil, Sporty Chic Designs
36 My Turn
by Terry Ross
Teeing it Forward - Shorter is Sometimes Better
on the cover: Escape to the historic The Breakers in Palm Beach, FL
30 6
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
Enjoy the 100 Greatest Books of All Time and Never Have to Read a Word! Ֆ
FOR LESS THAN $1 A BOOK, you’ll be captivated by the stories from the 100 greatest literary classics of all time… without ever having to read a word. Listen to them in audio book format , preloaded on the included personal MP3 player. Your collection includes: 100 greatest books in audio format Adapter for listening in the car Personal headphones Belt clip Bonus Gift: The 50 most beloved classical music performances Just $99! So simple to use… Just push ‘play’ and enjoy!
You Are 100% Protected If you’re not completely satisfied, you are fully protected by our no-questions-asked, LIFETIME MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE. Simply call us and we’ll refund your full purchase price. © 2011 Library of Classics, Inc.
Wuthering Heights • Sherlock Holmes Scarlet Letter • Gulliver’s Travels Pride and Prejudice • Little Women Black Beauty • Romeo and Juliet Tom Sawyer • Tale of Two Cities
Plus 90 More!
FREE GIFT for Acting Now Order now, and you’ll receive a special FREE gift: 50 of the most enchanting classical music works (a $50 value) by the world’s great composers: Beethoven, Brahms, Tchaikovsky… all your favorites!
Call now for limited time special price and free gift!
888-622-9450 24 hours a day
CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS 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.
Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
David R. Holland is a former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, a football magazine publisher and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Multiple careers best describes this world traveler, who achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force reserve, serving during the Vietnam and Desert Storm eras. A former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, you can follow Dave’s travels on www.twitter.com/David_R_Holland.
David Wood In addition to writing on golf and travel, author and noted speaker David Wood has made several appearances on Late Night with David Letterman as well as dozens of other television shows. His book - Around the World in 80 Rounds - was just released in paperback on www.Amazon.com. Currently he works in public relations Communications in Vienna, VA. His website is with Buffalo www.DavidWoodSpeaking.com.
Associate Editor Terry Ross Features Editor Larry Feldman Senior Writers Tom LaMarre Fred Robledo For Editorial: call: (760) 774-2655 e-mail: INFO@GolfVacationsMag.com
Regional Advertising
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 Angeles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.
Los Angeles • 949-279-7801 Terry Ross - terryross@cox.net Atlanta • 770-239-7500 Harold Chambliss - haroldcmg@ceocenters.com San Diego • 619-889-7706 Bob Black - bobblack@cox.net Kansas City • 913-217-7242 Harry Noll - hmdn1954@yahoo.com
Palm Springs Resorts Golf Package Specials Cimarron Golf Resort – 1 round incl. cart Woodhaven Country Club – 1 round incl. cart 1 nights accommodations Homewood Suites – Palm Desert or Holiday Inn Express – Palm Desert
OVER 40 COURSES TO CHOOSE FROM
199
$
South Florida • 772-323-4794 Jack Montondo - jack@GolfVacationsMag.com
00
(per person-double occupancy plus tax) Limited offer – Based on availability
Book 2 weeks to 1 month in advance and
SAVE 10% TO 50% OVER POSTED RATES Course Weekdays Weekends Call Today Classic Club For Details Desert Willow Trilogy Call Today Indian Canyons South For Details Desert Princess Call Today Palm Desert Country Club For Details Rancho Mirage Country Club 8
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
S
portsMedia publications
President Jeffrey Diaz
Mix & Match your golf courses and hotels Ask about our Private Reserve Exclusive private country clubs
Published by
777 E. Atlantic Avenue, Suite C2-151 Delray Beach, Florida 33483-5360 760 . 744 . 2655
For reservations or inquires contact Bill Cannedy Golf Vacations Magazine Travel Concierge
(760) 902-5587 mrgolf@dc.rr.com
and
Destiny Media, LLC President/CEO James A. Diaz
Golf Vacations Magazine is published in digital format monthly and distributed online to over 1,000,000 golfer’s email inboxes each issue. Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2011 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher. www.golfvacationsmag.com
U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >> KIAWAH ISLAND TESTS “THREE HOUR GOLF” TO GROW GAME KIAWAH ISLAND, SC – Continuing its ongoing efforts to develop innovative ways to grow the game of golf, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is testing a new program this summer to target three hours or less for a round of golf. From July 9, 2011 to August 31, 2011, the resort will set aside tee times on its courses for singles, twosomes and threesomes with the goal for golfers to finish their 18-hole round in less than three hours. “One of the major challenges that keeps many golfers off the course is the amount of time it takes to play 18 holes,” said Brian Gerard, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Director of Golf. “In response,
www.golfvacationsmag.com
we’ve developed this test program aimed at getting players around the course in less than three hours. We have set aside either the first times in the morning or reserved early afternoon times for players starting at 12:30pm to allow for quick play.” This new program is just the newest salvo in Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s ongoing efforts to make the game of golf to more attractive to more people. Other programs currently in place at Kiawah Island Golf Resort are: • Afternoon Special – On all five of the resort’s golf courses, rates drop for guests after 2pm during the summer months (May 30 – Sept. 4). • Kiawah Island’s “Family Tee” program – Developed as a way for beginner
chip shots golfers to get out and learn the game of golf, it is also a great way to encourage family togetherness. The program runs all summer long on Osprey Point, Turtle Point, Cougar Point and Oak Point golf courses. Starting times are in 15minute intervals from 6pm and 7:30pm. Everyone is required to play from the family tees (ranging for 100 to 200 yards per hole) allowing the whole family the fun of playing together. An adult must accompany children and visa versa. Adults pay $45 per round, children under 17 play free of charge. For further information about these programs and golf at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, call 800-654-2924 or visit www.kiawahresort.com.
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
9
U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >>
FARMLINKS GOLF CLUB “BARBECUE RUBS & CLUBS AT THE FARM” SYLACAUGA, AL – FarmLinks Golf Club at Pursell Farms – featuring the world’s only agronomic research and demonstration golf course – has teamed up with barbecue enthusiast, Scott Jones, nationally recognized food and wine expert and former executive food editor of Southern Living, to offer an appetizing, new educational program that’s sure to be savored: “Barbecue Rubs & Clubs at The Farm.” There's nothing like sharing the flavor, enjoying the taste and appreciating every morsel of a great barbecue. And this event, scheduled for Saturday, July 23, will blend two passions – barbecue and golf – into one truly unforgettable day. From barbecue beginners to promising pitmasters, participants in the Rubs & Clubs event will attend an interactive barbecue seminar, enjoy delicious meals and play golf on FarmLinks’ championship course. “We’ll zoom-in on the most popular regional style – from Memphis to Kansas City to the Carolinas – and talk about why they matter,” Jones explains. “Then we’ll discuss the essential elements needed to become a true backyard pitmaster. And using a variety of salts, sugars, spices and heat sources, participants will have the opportunity to create – and take
10
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
home – their very own signature dry rubs.” And after a day on the links, guests will kick back with an authentic, barbecue supper on the grounds, highlighted by smoked, Carolina-style chopped pork shoulder with all the fixin’s, including a variety of regional sauces, sides and, of course, dessert. “Rubs & Clubs at The Farm” will kick off at 10:30 a.m. and finish up at 8:45 p.m. The cost is $169 (tax included) and includes: lunch, barbecue seminar with Scott Jones, signature dry rub (yours to keep), 18 holes of golf and barbecue supper. Participants may add a dinner-only guest for $45. There is a maximum of 70 guests, so be sure to reserve your spot today. For more information about this event or to register for Rubs & Clubs, contact John Trawick at jtrawick@farmlinks.org For more information about stay-andplay packages: 877.292.FARM (3276), www.farmlinks.org, and www.facebook.com/farmlinks
LA COSTA RENAMES GOLF LAYOUTS TO CHAMPIONS AND LEGENDS CARLSBAD, CA – La Costa Resort and Spa, home to one of golf’s iconic venues, has renamed its two 18-hole layouts. They are now the Champions Course and Legends Course, in honor of the history and tradition that includes playing host to 37 PGA Tour events, one LPGA event, and the greatest
chip shots names in golf for more than 40 years. The new Champions Course, the former North Course, is undergoing a complete restoration project and is scheduled to reopen in November. It is now paired with the Legends Course, formerly the South Course, on which four holes are being renovated, as La Costa enhances its reputation as a world-class golf destination. La Costa’s first 18 holes were designed by Dick Wilson in 1965 and even today remain the only publicly-accessible Dick Wilson holes west of the Mississippi. Joe Lee added nine holes in 1973 and the final nine holes in 1984. Since it opened in the coastal foothills north of San Diego, La Costa Resort and Spa has a long, distinguished history with the greatest players in golf, dating back to the Tournament Of Champions (TOC) in 1969. La Costa’s list of winners includes legends from various eras, from Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, to Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. La Costa hosted the Match Play Championships for seven years until 2006, and in 2010 was home of the inaugural Kia Classic on the LPGA Tour. Coincidentally, the Champions Course is being redesigned by one of La Costa’s champions – Steve Pate, who won the TOC in 1989 and now is a partner in Pascuzzo & Pate Golf Course Design. In 2011 the entire resort is undergoing a $50 million renovation, including the spa, guest rooms, event center, public spaces, recreational amenities, in addition to the golf course. For additional information access the resort’s web site at www.lacosta.com.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
orre T U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >>
PACKAGES FROM HALF MOON BAY GOLF LINKS/HALF MOON BAY INN
HALF MOON BAY, CA – Half Moon Bay Golf Links, the San Francisco Bay Area’s only 36-hole, oceanfront golf resort, and the Half Moon Bay Inn are offering three new golf packages targeted to both casual and avid players. The “Stay and Play Golf Package” (starting at $229) includes accommodations and rounds on either the Ocean or Old Course. The “Stay, Play and Relax Package” (from $274) features après golf cocktails, a $50 gift certificate for the hotel’s on-site restaurant, “It’s Italia”, and a 20% discount on all services provided by Oceano Coastal Spa. Designed for golf enthusiasts in search of championship golf from sunrise to sunset, the “Stay and Play All Day Package” (from $353) serves up accommodations plus all-day access on either Half Moon Bay Golf Links’ Ocean Course or The Old Course. Guests can choose between two dra-
matically different courses. The Ocean Course (Arthur Hills) is a fast, firm links style layout with coastal mounding, native grasses and spectacular ocean views from all 18 holes. The Ocean Course (Arnold Palmer) is a Northern California classic, replete with tree-lined fairways and doglegs that demand precise shot-making and a handful of holes with dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean. Located in the heart of historic downtown and minutes from the Golf Links, the Half Moon Bay Inn is the perfect coastal getaway any time of year. With newly-renovated guest rooms and street-level lobby, the Half Moon Bay Inn pampers guests with
chip shots
luxuriously-appointed rooms and suites. For more information or reservations, call 650.726.1177 or visit www.halfmoonbayinn.com. For more information about Half Moon Bay Golf Links visit www.halfmoonbaygolf.com/packages or call 650.726.1800.
THE CUISINE OF ITALY
“Combining Old-World Italian comfort food with personalized service, a congenial atmosphere and an extensive wine list, La Torretta excels as one of Arizona’s most impressive restaurants” — Dining Out
With a menu that utilizes the freshest and most authentic ingredients and pasta made fresh in-house daily, the restaurant’s culinary fare is consistently delicious and refreshing.Their Osso Buco,Taglio del Vitello Farcito con Quattro Farmagio and Veal Piccata have become local legends and inspired positive reviews from the Scottsdale Republic, the New Times, Guest Informant, TravelHost, and Scottsdale Magazine. The combination of La Torretta’s sophisticated interior and authentic food make it a prime candidate for intimate dinners to group celebrations of special occasions.
LIVE WELL
•
LOVE MUCH
•
LAUGH OFTEN
LA TORRETTA Ristorante & Italian Steakhouse
16640 N. Scottsdale Rd • SW corner Frank Lloyd Wright/Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale • 480.991.2000 • www.latorrettaaz.com Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-2pm • Dinner Daily 4:30-9:30pm
U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >> QUIROGOLF MASSAGE AT PUERTO VALLARTA / RIVIERA NAYARIT HOTELS Now available for the first time outside of Spain, the Quirogolf Massage is a unique deep body massage, performed with golf balls, that uses maneuvers to increase relaxation, warming of the muscles and flexibility. This treatment, ideal before teeing off or after a couple of rounds, is excellent for relieving nerve pressure, soothing muscle and joint discomfort, eliminating stress and anxiety, and recovering physical energy. Guests and golf-pros alike are able to enjoy the Quirogolf Massage at the recently remodeled Spa Casa Velas inside the adults-only Casa Velas, an all-inclusive luxury hotel and ocean club in Puerto Vallarta, as well as at the Spa Grand Velas of the AAA Five-Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Both spas are members of the Leading Spas of the World. Guests can enjoy their treatment outdoors amid the resort’s tropical gardens and adjacent to the
12
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
greens of the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, at the private Ocean Club or on the beach overlooking the Banderas Bay. The 80 minute treatment costs $137.
ENJOY “SWINGING DEAL” AT SCOTLAND’S MARCLIFFE HOTEL EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – The five-star Marcliffe Hotel and Spa is offering golf fanatics the chance to experience the sport where it began with a vacation package that visits three of Scotland’s world-renowned courses. The “Swinging Deal” features one round of golf each at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, which is known for challenging courses with diverse links; Murcar Links Golf Club, named “Course of the Year” by Golf Tourism Scotland in 2007; and Cruden Bay Golf Club, an
chip shots old-fashioned course situated on the scenic east coast and recently ranked no. 52 in the world by Golf Magazine. Package rates from $994 per person, double, are valid through Oct. 31, 2011, and include three nights’ accommodation with daily Scottish breakfast and an a la carte dinner menu on one night. Tee-times are arranged at time of booking and are subject to availability; a range of substitute courses are available in place of the Royal Aberdeen while the property hosts the 2011 Walker Cup from Aug. 29 to Sept 13. For more information or to make reservations, contact reservations@marcliffe.com.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >> LAKE TOXAWAY’S STAY AND PLAY GOLF OFFERS INCREDIBLE VALUE LAKE TOXAWAY, NC – The Greystone Inn, an historic, charming hotel located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, is offering a special golf package so that guests may enjoy the spectacular venue to the fullest. On Lake Toxaway Country Club’s championship golf course, designed by Kris Spence, golfers wind through beautiful mountain terrain and experience inviting fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and Augusta style approaches that demand pinpoint accuracy. Located just steps from the inn, the 18-hole, par-71, private golf course is one of the premier courses in western North Carolina and is ranked among the top Carolina golf resort’s by Links Magazine. The Incredible Golf Package includes unlimited golf from arrival day to departure day (cart fees apply), luxurious accommodations, daily High Country Breakfast, afternoon tea with sweets and
savories, champagne cruise on Lake Toxaway aboard the Miss Lucy, hors d’oeuvres, six-course gourmet dinner, tennis, formal croquet, fitness center, canoes and kayaks, pool and lake swimming, and scenic hiking through the area known as The Land of Waterfalls. Per night rates start at $485 for a deluxe room in the historic mansion. Play just one round a day and save over $100, or save well over $200 when playing two rounds a day. This package is available from now through November. Call 800-824-5766 or 828-966-4700 for more information or visit www.greystoneinn.com.
PAYETTE CUP DRAWS COUPLES TO PLAY MOUNTAIN-LAKE LINKS MCCALL, ID - Whitetail Club in McCall, Idaho, is hosting the sixth-annual Payette Cup couples golf tournament Aug. 25-27. Limited to 60 couples, the event is not only open to Whitetail Club members and their guests, but to guests of the public bou-
DESTINATIONS
www.golfvacationsmag.com
chip shots tique lakefront resort Shore Lodge, as well. According to General Manager Dan Scott, the Payette Cup is one of the finest couples tournaments in Idaho. "It's the perfect time of year up here and the tournament is a great getaway for couples and their friends who love to golf and spend time in McCall," he says. The three-day event includes one practice round and two tournament rounds of golf, a welcome reception Thursday night at Shore Lodge's Upper Pavilion with appetizers and cocktails, and an awards dinner and dance Saturday night at Whitetail Club's Golf Shop & Grille. Tournament registration costs $950 per couple, and Shore Lodge is offering a special 15 percent discount off lodging rates for Payette Cup participants. Friday night is left open in case tournament players want to dine at The Narrows Restaurant or one of Shore Lodge's other acclaimed onsite establishments. For info www.whitetailclub.com
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO PLAY
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
13
THE BREAKERS Historic • Classic • Legendary
PALM BEACH FLORIDA Legends are often embellished, and Florida golf history certainly has its share of stories. Like the day in 1900 Harry Vardon arrived on a steamship, docked at The Breakers, and played his first round of golf in the USA at Florida’s oldest 18-hole golf course – the Ocean Course. By David R. Holland www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
15
“The way I’ve heard the story,” said Tim Collins, The Breakers director of golf, “is that Mr. Vardon was on an exhibition tour for the Spaulding Company.” You can no longer play the “Vardon Flyer” – a golf ball he promoted, but “vintage” certainly can be used to describe this venerable resort that dates back to 1896.
Main Drive
Tapestry Bar
Today the Ocean Course is old-school golf at its best. Originally laid out by Scotsman Alexander H. Findlay in 1897, it was once retooled by Donald Ross, and completely redesigned by golf course architect Brian Silva in 2000, to the tune of $6 million. At the turn of the century it had sand greens and measured 4,925 yards before Ross visited in the 1920s and added length and grass greens. It was about that time that golfers were allowed to remove their jackets and ties to play the game on days the heat and humidity were stifling. However, any activities in the clubhouse required the golfers to wear their best clothes. Today the Ocean Course also has a new “Old Florida” styled clubhouse for tennis and golf that is home to the Flagler Steakhouse. The Breakers Rees Jones Course, which is 11 miles from the ocean-front hotel, is the Ocean Course’s contemporary counterpart. A complimentary shuttle will take you there. Two Layouts: Contrasting Styles Two things will be the theme during your round at The Ocean Course: this is a tight golf course with tropicalflowering trees and palms lining the fairways and the tiff eagle greens are perfect. Collins will tell you that the bunkering (88 new and refurbished traps) throughout the landscape is more random that most modern courses that have a repetitive scheme. Fairways intertwine to sandy hazards and merge into some water-hugging
16
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
greens. Some putting surfaces are flanked by deeply-recessed, classic bunkers and close-cut green fringes that surround and allow chipping options. Silva’s redesign addressed tee elevation, tee sizes, surface slopes, pin placement areas, an integration of sand and grass-faced bunkers, as well as installation of complex new drainage and irrigation and a sixth lake. Main Lobby
“I think we successfully heightened playing interest while re-establishing vintage design characteristics of the course. Our goal was to preserve the unique and priceless attributes of the original course while reviving those details that have not survived the rigors of climate and time,” said Silva, a past Golf World magazine Architect of the Year. The primary thing you will notice about The Breakers Rees Jones
Course, 7,104 yards, par 72, is the multitude of peninsula greens that will challenge your golf ball supply. It is a playable, contemporary championship course, with lush foliage and numerous water hazards in the style of a nature preserve. Opened in 1976 as The Breakers West Course, it was redone by Jones in 2004 and awarded “Renovation of the Year” by Golf, inc. Jones artfully sculpted the course with full views of the rolls and
dips, water, palms and pines. Slight elevation changes make the course even more interesting. The Verdict Long-time players say The Ocean Course rewards wits over power and challenges skill. Resort pros recommend playing the ball low to counteract the ocean winds and to use the terrain to play the ball in front of the green.
The Breakers Rees Jones Course 8th hole Kids Fun Room
Any skilled golfer will be challenged by the Jones course, especially with the holes where greens are encircled by water. Beware of No. 6, a 556-yard par-five, which doglegs right. Water is all along the right and the peninsula green, with three tiers, looks tiny for any approach, especially if the wind is blowing sideways. John Webster Golf Academy at The Breakers The John Webster Golf Academy makes The Breakers a prime place to sharpen your skills with individual golf instruction. Webster personalizes his tutorial with physical fitness and stateof-the-art Learning Centers can be found at both The Ocean Course and The Breakers Rees Jones Course.
L’Escalier evolves into a new dining concept in 2012
A PGA member since 1995 and PGA Class-A Teaching Professional, Webster has taught Cal Ripken Jr., Tom Kite, Candy Hannemann, Kyle Boller, former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge, and former USGA President/US Amateur Champion Fred Ridley. Classic Elegance That’s The Breakers The Breakers Palm Beach is one of America’s legendary resort destinations. Awesome Founded in 1896 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 540-room, Italian Renaissancestyle hotel occupies 140 acres of oceanfront land. Like with any worldclass hotel and resort, it is constantly being upgraded.
18
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
The Imperial Suite
Aside from golf on Palm Island, there are 10 tennis courts, and a 20,000square-foot luxury spa. Add to that a the oceanfront beach club with a halfmile of private beach, featuring beach bungalows for daytime-rental, and five pools and four whirlpool spas. Water sports including scuba diving (an incredible, renowned reef is just a half-mile out) and fishing is available.
The Italian Restaurant
When it came to dine I picked the Seafood Grill for crab cakes and crab claws topped off with The Breakers’ 100-year-old recipe for Key Lime Pie. The second night I walked to the Flagler Steakhouse in the golf clubhouse for Tbone steak and the trimmings. The Breakers has a broad selection of other restaurants ranging from casual
Night at the pool
to fine dining, as well as an array of on-site boutiques – all wholly owned and managed by the resort. The Breakers is recognized as a AAA Five Diamond property. For reservations or more information, contact the resort toll-free at 1-888-BREAKERS (273-2537), (561) 655-6611, or visit www.thebreakers.com.
Pro Shop
Rees Jones Course 13th Hole
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
19
“Harbour Town Golf Links is nothing short of a work of
HiltonHead
Sea Pines Resort Has it All!
F
ew resort destinations have it all – natural beauty complete with mesmerizing seascapes; championship golf for any and all handicaps; a wide array of amenities and fun for the entire family; plus an ambience of ease and charm that allows one to escape the hustle and bustle of life and simply “get away.” The Sea Pines Resort on picturesque Hilton Head Island possesses all of the above and more. It is truly a “one stop” vacation wonderland. Heralded as one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay” by Condé Nast Traveler, The Sea Pines Resort www.seapines.com is steeped in southern tradition and blessed with lovely Lowcountry landscapes.
art" -
famed golf writer Dan Jenkins
By JD Latorre
Hilton
The legendary destination and its flagship course, Harbour Town Golf Links, are two of the most iconic names in golf travel having welcomed the world’s best players and thousands of fans for over 40 years at The Heritage, one of the most distinguished events on the PGA TOUR schedule.
With the eminent red- and white-striped Harbour Town Lighthouse standing sentinel, its famous finishing hole along the Calibogue Sound anchors Harbour Town as one of Pete Dye’s seminal designs. Called “nothing short of a work of art” by famed golf writer Dan Jenkins, Harbour Town Golf Links has continually ranked in the highest echelons of championship courses and is a perennial “must play” when visiting the Palmetto State. Few courses offer the tapestry of history, design ingenuity, beauty and acclaim as this masterpiece. Throughout the eighteen, large waste bunkers, railroad ties, expansive lagoons and live oaks draped with Spanish moss, palmetto palms and stately magnolias influence the line of play and demand the golfer give undivided attention to each swing. Not long by today’s standards at just under 7,000 yards against a par of 71, Harbour Town is the epitome of strategic golf – almost like chess in the great outdoors with a little white ball. To find success on this beguiling golf course, a player must not only find the fairway, but often must land on the proper side in order to safely reach the green. It’s as fun and challenging as golf can be. Two acclaimed courses complete Sea Pines’ trifecta of championship and resort golf. The new Heron Point by Pete Dye opened in September 2007 and is not to be missed. This is a splendid, shot-makers’ layout with penal bunkers and dramatic swales and mounding and again shows the handiwork of Mr. Dye’s considerable genius. Proving its versatility, Heron Point was just named one of America’s “Top 50 Courses for Women” by Golf Digest. It’s ideal for a couples’ golf vacation. The Ocean Course is an attractive and not-overlyintimidating combination of lagoons, bunkers and fairway contours creating a contemporary 6,906-yard layout 22
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
Sea Pine
nHead
es
that has been awarded “Beginner Friendly” certification from the National Golf Course Owners Association. It also offers a true rarity on Hilton Head Island — an actual oceanfront hole set against a dune ridge with an idyllic seascape as a backdrop on the 210yard, par-3 15th. It’s perfect for beginners to experts. No matter which course you play, all are resplendent with knotted hardwoods and lagoons and salt marshes teeming with wildlife. It’s the perfect harmony of the ancient game and Mother Nature. Match the tee-box to your skill level on any of the Sea Pines layouts and enjoy golf in its pure, enjoyable form. To complement golf, Harbor Town, with tranquil vistas of the ocean and Calibogue Sound, is the activity hub for the entire 5,000-acre Sea Pines Resort. It offers boutique shopping, an array of restaurants for all tastes and luxurious villas bordering the Yacht Basin, easily one of the most recognizable harbors in the boating world.
While golf is the focal point and calling card, Sea Pines features an array of world-class amenities. The Racquet Club boasts 23 clay courts and is ranked as one of the best in the U.S. Five miles of sweeping Atlantic beaches offer everything from sea-kayaking to fishing to surfing. The enchanted 605-acre Forest Reserve is ideal for horseback riding or wandering the many trails chockablock with wildflowers, wetlands and more than 130 species of birds. Le Spa and Sanctuary offers total serenity and relaxation with its roster of signature treatments. The Sea Pines Resort is also one of the premier business meeting and conference centers in the U.S. Accommodations range from ocean-side villa retreats and the Four-Diamond Inn at Harbour Town to beachfront cottages and homes. Plus, Sea Pines offers a wide array of package deals for whatever fun in the sun floats your boat. Simply put, The Sea Pines Resort is as good as it gets for your next vacation. For more information about Sea Pines Resort and its wide-variety of golf and non-golf packages: www.seapines.com 866.561.8802.
Resort
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
23
SOUTHERN CALIFOR
Fun Golf Just Twenty-Six Miles Across
T
iger Woods, Corey Pavin and Craig Stadler, along with many Hollywood celebrities, sports figures and regular week day and weekend golfers have golfed there. Where is there…it's the Catalina Island Golf Course just "Twenty Six Miles Across the Sea". Actually the course, which is located in Avalon, Catalina's main port, is only 22 miles from the Southern California mainland. However, since The Four Preps and Tennessee Ernie Ford made the island famous by singing that Santa Catalina was "Twenty Six Miles Across the Sea", that's good enough for me. There are many ways to get to Catalina for a fun round of golf and an enjoyable time sightseeing, shopping, swimming or just relaxing on its fifty-four miles of pristine shoreline. You can take a 24
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
15 minute helicopter ride; fly to the island's "Airport in the Sky" in a small plane; spend an hour speeding across the channel on a Catalina Express high speed vessel from Long Beach, Dana Point or San Pedro, cities just south of Los Angeles;…or you can do as I did and take a leisurely 4-day cruise from Long Beach on the Carnival Paradise which stops for one day at Catalina, one day at Ensenada, Mexico and spends one day cruising the blue Pacific. Knowing the Paradise spent one day in Avalon, I organized my schedule to play the 9-hole Catalina Island Golf Course. Normally playing a 9-hole course is not my cup of tea. However, playing the par 32 Catalina Island Golf Course proved to be a fun experience, one that I thoroughly enjoyed. The course, a short 2139 yards has four par 3's and five par 4's with the shortest par 3 being 114 yards and the longest par 4 a challenging 336 yards. www.golfvacationsmag.com
RNIA’S
ISLAND
CATALINA
The Sea by Chuck Miller “The Traveling Guy”
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
25
Prior to teeing off, I spoke to Head Pro Mark Phelps, a Catalina native who returned to the island after 17 years as a pro in Orange County near Los Angeles. For a first timer like myself, Mark was a fountain of information about the course and how to play it. He explained the course is one the oldest in Southern California having been built in 1892 as a 3-hole course and expanded to nine holes in 1894; is the former home of the Bobby Jones Invitational Tournament played there annually from 1931 to 1955; and that the Country Club served as the locker room for the Chicago Cubs for many years when they used Catalina Island as their spring training headquarters. My favorite hole was the 325-yard Par 4 first hole which has an elevated tee, a large bunker in the middle of the fairway and a tiny elevated green. It was my favorite not because I scored well, a couple of OB's did me in, but because of the view from the tee of the lush and scenic greenery surrounding the course. Following my round I happened upon Catalina local Dick Salazar and two of his golfing buddies, Paul Monti and Pat Forese. When I asked them their thoughts about the course, Dick smiled 26
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
and said, "It is narrow and not as easy as it looks". He was absolutely correct. The course's narrow tree lined fairways, deep greenside bunkers and small greens definitely made it harder than its short yardage implied. The course has two sets of tees which makes it is possible to play an 18-hole round. Green fees are $35-$60 for nine holes and $49-$85 for 18 holes depending on the day you play and whether you walk or rent a golf cart. Following golf my three golf and cruise companions and I walked down to the harbor and lunched at Steve's Steakhouse overlooking Avalon Bay. We quickly understood why locals have voted Steve's Steakhouse Catalina's #1 restaurant...excellent food, outstanding service and a panoramic view of Avalon Bay across Crescent Avenue, Catalina's main street. We had a chance to meet owner-manager Steve Bray, a fourth generation "islander". Steve, who prides himself on purchasing only fresh seafood directly from local fisherman whenever possible, opened the restaurant in 2001 and has made it a household name for excellent steak and fish entrees, a terrific selection of wines, and superb desserts. www.golfvacationsmag.com
We enjoyed an appetizer of locally caught and exquisitely prepared sand dabs and then our party of four dined on four different luncheon entrees…scallops, ahi tuna, sea bass and penne pasta with shrimp. Each mouth watering entrée was prepared to perfection. The only regret we had was that we were sailing from Catalina at 4:30 PM which precluded us from having one of Steve's famed steak dinners. We vowed to return, hopefully sooner than later. Although Avalon is just 22 miles away from the mainland, it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of life in Southern California. It is a laid-back friendly community. There's not even a traffic light on the island. Because it is laid-back doesn't mean there's nothing to do there. In addition to golfing, shopping, and sightseeing, there are a myriad of activities available including a new and exciting Zip Line experience, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing, as well as numerous tours of the island and bay, most of which can be arranged through the Shore Excursion Desk when sailing on the Carnival Paradise.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
The Paradise offers a fun and relaxing way to visit Catalina. We boarded the 70,000 ton, 855 foot long Paradise on a Monday afternoon prior to a 5:00 PM sailing. We enjoyed the sail away party and then headed to the Leonardo Lounge to quench our thirsts with some adult beverages prior to dining in the Destiny Dining Room aboard our "hotel that moves". The Paradise has everything you need for a fun vacation. You can enjoy elegant dining in the white table cloth Destiny and Elation Dining Rooms or casual dining in the Paris Restaurant or at the snack bars or the pizzeria. You can also enjoy meals in your stateroom by calling for room service. During its four day itinerary there is time to catch up on your reading in the library or while lounging on deck, swim in one of the two swimming pools, relax in one of the six hot tubs, get a massage in the Spa or enjoy a drink in one of the 12 bars and lounges. For those who like to "shop til you drop", the Paradise shops offers great bargains on jewelry, duty free alcohol, souvenirs and clothes from casual to formal. Oh yes, did I mention Bingo.
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
27
If you like Broadway style shows as I do, the Normandie Lounge Show Room is a must. We saw two extremely upbeat shows there, Eight More Seconds and Shout. Both had original and well known songs, extremely energetic dancing and outstanding costumes with multiple changes. Great shows, great fun.
When at sea on the Carnival you can tempt lady luck in the Majestic Casino which has a wide variety of slot machines and table games. If gaming is not your forte, there is a nightly Sing-A- Long in the America Piano Bar, dancing in the Leonardo Lounge and Rex Disco or late night comedy in the Comedy Club. If the activities of the day have you wanting to relax, you can simply head back to the comfort of your stateroom. The Paradise offers something for everyone. Tiny tots, pre-teens, teenagers, young adults, singles, married couples and families all have access to a variety of different activities. Whatever your age, whatever your lifestyle, you will never be bored on the Carnival Paradise. Having taken 23 cruises over the years I highly recommend cruising as a wonderful way to see the world while enjoying all the amenities that a "hotel that moves" provides. To me cruising is the most economical vacation available. When you are an avid golfer and can combine cruising with golf as I did, "life is good".
Whether you live out of the area and are planning a Southern California vacation, or you live in Southern California, make sure your vacation plans include a fun filled four days on the Carnival Paradise. And, if you are a golfer, be sure and play golf at the Catalina Island Golf Course.
•
•
28
•
•
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
•
•
•
•
•
•
For more information on cruising with Carnival, check wi For information about golf at the Catalina Island golf cou
www.golfvacationsmag.com
ith your travel agent or visit Carnival's website www.Carnival.com. For more information about Catalina Island, go to www.Catalina.com. urse, go to www.visitcatalinaisland.com and click on golf. For information about Steve's Steakhouse, go to www.stevessteakhouse.com.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
29
RESORTREPORT
By David WOOD
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA
PGA National Resort & Spa
As Good As It Gets ew destinations have a golf pedi-
16 and 17 where designer Jack
gree as storied as PGA Resort &
Nicklaus famously said, “It should be
Spa and its Champion Course.
won or lost right here.” Why so hard?
The legendary South Florida vacation
Water, water and more water. In the
spot’s vaunted resume includes hosting
2010 Honda Classic, winner Camilo
the 1983 Ryder Cup, 1987 PGA
Villegas played the three-hole stretch in
Championship,
two
even par over four rounds. The field
PGA
tallied 352 over-par scores. Play them
F
decades
of
and the
nearly Senior
at your own risk.
Championship. Currently, PGA National hosts The
Additionally, PGA National boasts
Honda Classic, one of the PGA
four other excellent layouts. The
TOUR’s premier events and the first
Palmer – an Arnold Palmer signature
stop on its famous “Florida Swing.”
course with a subtle nod to the game's
Recent tournament winners include
Scottish roots. The Haig – designed by
elite TOUR players such as Camilo
George and Tom Fazio with no forced
Villegas, Ernie Els, Luke Donald and
carries over water hazards, thus offer-
Padraig Harrington. Harrington, the
ing a true resort-style playing experi-
2005 champion, says that outside the
ence. The Squire is a tough test of
majors,
PGA
accuracy and precision, and dubbed,
National is “the best course we play
“the thinking man's course.” The
on TOUR.”
Estates is designed by Karl Litten and
The
Champion
at
is a quick drive from the resort
www.golfvacationsmag.com
PGA National is also home to the
grounds. The Estates is flat-out excel-
trifecta of holes named “The Bear
lent and regularly hosts the Monday
Trap” on The Champion – holes 15,
Qualifier for the Honda Classic.
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
31
RESORTREPORT For those who don't yet play like a pro, the PGA
For those wanting the Full Monty of a real TOUR expe-
National Golf Academy is home to the country's best golf
rience and trying to tame the mighty Bear Trap, PGA
instruction. On-site programs from both the David
National offers its “PGA Honda Classic Experience” stay-
Leadbetter Golf Academy and the Dave Pelz Scoring
and-play package year-round. In addition to staying in the
Game School, along with tour level custom club fitting
resort hotel where the majority of the fields stays for the
from the PGA National Club Fitting Lab, are available.
event, the TOUR experience begins with a photo-op on the
The whole locale is a one-stop golf heaven.
first tee of The Champion.
After a round, indulge in one of more than 100 treat-
To enhance the challenge, PGA TOUR tournament
ments offered by The Spa at PGA National, lounge in the
green speeds are kept at knee-buckling, double-digit
magnificent zero-entry pool, or enjoy one of the nine on-
Stimpmeter readings along with Honda Classic hole flags.
site restaurants and lounges highlighted by the Ironwood
Garmin GPS provides pinpoint yardages and caddies are
Grille’s fresh seafood, juicy steaks and an array of fine
available wearing Augusta style jumpsuits. It’s as close to
wines even including selections from the vineyards of
a PGA experience as one can get without going through
Greg Norman, Ernie Els and David Frost. The classy iBAR
Q-School.
in the lobby is the perfect spot to recount your fortunes or misfortunes on The Champion’s Bear Trap or one of the other championship courses.
PGA National is also once again rolling out its popular “Summer Escape and Play” package, highlighted by
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA unlimited daily golf, nightly deluxe accommodations and access to the famous Waters of the World mineral pools. Complete with over $300 of extra value, the Summer Escape and Play starts at $89 per night (per person) and runs from May 20 – September 30, 2011. If you’re a traveling golfer, PGA National Resort & Spa is just about as good as it gets. For more information on the PGA Honda Classic Experience and Summer Escape and Play, or to make reservations:
PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA 400 AVENUE OF THE CHAMPIONS PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL www.pgaresort.com • 1-800-533-9386
SWEETSTUFF W
hen it comes to perfecting an efficient golf swing, one of the first tips most people get is to not grip the club too firmly. The dreaded “death grip” that is the result of holding the club too tightly creates way too much tension in the hands and forearms and can lead to reduced distance as well as an uneven swing that can produce a variety of unwanted results. A new training device called the SensoGlove, which is being called the world’s first digital golf glove, actually records the pressure of the fingers on the glove hand (the left hand for those that swing right handed) onto a graphic computer module that sits on the top of the glove closure and records the constant pressure applied to the club all the way from setup to follow through.
of the backswing and this device gives excellent feedback with what is happening with the grip pressure dur8ing all phases of the swing. It is also an excellent tool for practice putting and chipping to help develop a soft, feathery touch that is essential for a good short game. SensoGlove works as your own personal golf trainer, showing you the correct way to grip the club, thereby avoiding bad habits and injury. It improves the golf game with built-in digital sensors in the glove that continuously read the user’s grip pressure to ensure a consistently accurate, smooth and powerful golf swing. SensoGlove’s small, sweat-proof 1.2-inch LED digital monitor analyzes the pressure of the swing through highly responsive sensors placed throughout the glove. Just swing the golf club to receive realtime audio and visual feedback at 80 times per second that warn you if you exceed your target level of grip pressure. The patented SensoGlove even shows you which fingers are gripping too tightly, so you can adjust your grip accordingly. “Golfers know that grip pressure is a big issue, but before SensoGlove, they could not get objective feedback -- especially not in real time,” said David Bauer, President of Sensosolutions. “Many golfers think they are playing with a light grip pressure, but when they start the swing, the grip pressure increases unconsciously. So when a teacher tells the student to keep the pressure below a certain level with SensoGlove’s numbered system, the student knows exactly what they mean.” Sensosolutions GmbH is a leading German-based company specializing in the development of highly innovative IT systems for sports analysis, motion, and performance measurement. Made of cabretta leather, the built-in digital monitor can be removed to use SensoGlove as a regular golf glove. It is available in men’s and women’s--right or left hand configurations-- sizes small to x-large. The Sensoglove is priced at $89 (replacement gloves are available for $22.48). For more information visit www.sensoglove.com
S “Many of the students we teach at our golf school struggle with grip pressure. More than 90% of our students grip the club too tight! Until now, it has been a challenge to communicate proper grip pressure to a student. SensoGlove gives the student immediate feedback and creates a feeling of the proper grip pressure. ” said Mark Durland, Director of Instructions at Naples Grande Golf Club, Naples, FL. Many players also struggle with “re-gripping” the club at the top 34
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
ummer is the primetime for playing golf and outdoor activities, but it is also the most dangerous for your skin because of the intense rays from the sun and the damage it can do. Protection for the skin is essential and Vichy Laboratoires has introduced Capital Soleil, a new full range of sun care products featuring an advanced UV filtering system to provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection that employs a potent antioxidant combination of White Grape Polyphenols and Vitamin E that helps provide cellular protection and neutralizes almost all types of skin-aging free radicals. Non-greasy, water-resistant, tested on sensitive skin and familyfriendly, Capital Soleil melds beauty and science for sunscreens that are as pleasurable and flattering to use as they are clinically effective. This line is highlighted by a daily face protection fluid utilizing “shaka shaka” technology to deliver an ultra-sheer, matte application. A partial emulsion, the fluid is packaged with two separate components – oil and water – that are combined by an enclosed ball bear-
www.golfvacationsmag.com
SWEETSTUFF ing when shaken before application, making the “shaka shaka” sound. This dispensing innovation in the Capital Soleil SPF 50 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid provides the perfect sheer consistency, unlike many sun care products offering a similar SPF protection. With a virtually transparent and smooth finish, the Capital Soleil SPF 50 is ideal for everyday use and under makeup. The new range also features two sunscreen lotions, Capital Soleil Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60 and SPF 30, that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection all the way down to the cellular level to help keep even delicate, sensitive skin looking healthy and youthful. The Capital Soleil sunscreen line includes the following three products--Capital Soleil SPF 50 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid: This formula provides comprehensive, daily facial sun protection and helps fight free radicals to prevent signs of sun-induced aging. Unlike other high SPF sun care products, Capital Soleil SPF 50 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid is not heavy, chalky or oily. Employing stateof-the-art “shaka shaka” technology to freshly create the perfect emulsion for each application, this fluid has an incredibly sheer and non-greasy finish that is perfect for daily use. Capital Soleil Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion: For intense sun exposure for face and body, the SPF 60 and SPF 30 provide superior, multi-layer protection from UV
www.golfvacationsmag.com
by TERRY ROSS rays and skin-aging free radical damage. Both sunscreen lotions contain a unique combination of effective UV filters with powerful antioxidants for complementary protection. These fragrance-free, water-resistant formulas were developed for sensitive skin, and Capital Soleil SPF 60 is pediatrician-tested. Capital Soleil is available at select CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade and Walgreens stores, and sold online at www.vichyusa.com.
S
porty Chic Designs offers a new twist to the classic tennis bracelet with a line of jewelry for women who love to play and work hard. Each item has a sports symbol incorporated into the design, striking up conversations when they really count. Each gorgeous and versatile piece has a MSRP starting at $42 and is available at www.SportyChicDesigns.com. Sporty Chic Designs creates jewelry is for women who take their game, and style, seriously. Choose from a variety of precious metals and stones and three distinct, sports-inspired collections to find that perfect bracelet. The Classic Collection is made with comfy elastic wristlets that combine precious semi-stones with a choice of golf ball or tennis ball beads. The Pro Collection consists of toggle bracelets that combine a wide range of semi-precious beads with a golf tee or tennis racket closure. Lastly, the Trophy Collection is a prize selection of limited edition toggle bracelets to celeb rate success at work or play. Genuine beads with sterling silver or 14K gold accents inspire women to take their game to a new level. Earrings are also available to complete the look. Women may choose a piece from one of the three collections available or create their own. “I created Sporty Chic Designs so women can show their love for golf and sports,” said Deborah Poland, founder of Sporty Chic Designs. “These pieces will spark conversations on the court or greens, with the right people to earn a new position, client or friend. Golf is, after all, the ultimate business tool!” Sporty Chic Designs also works with a variety of national organizations and women’s groups to bring the same creative concepts and expression to their cause. Sporty Chic Designs offers charms that show your support for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA). With each pink ribbon purchased, 10% of the purchase will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to support the fight against breast cancer. To bring style to your game, visit www.SportyChicDesigns.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2011
35
MYTURN
by TERRYROSS
Teeing It Forward - Shorter is Sometimes Better A s it is with many things, shorter is not usually better—especially when it comes to golf. But golf course operators and the industry at-large has embarked on a mission to get more people back in the game and playing more rounds again with one simple theme—shorter is better. Only in this case it pertains to playing the golf course at a shorter distance than normal in order to create a much more enjoyable experience, take less time and hopefully shoot lower scores. The United States Golf Association and the PGA of America have partnered to support a “Tee It Forward” initiative nationally in July where they encourage golf courses to set up their tees from radically closer distances from the hole in order to create a “course within a course” that will be better suited to many golfer’s skill levels. One of the first proponents of this program who has campaigned to make the game more enjoyable was retired club maker Barney Adams of Adams Golf, who contends that for the average amateur who plays a 6,700-yard course and ends up hitting fairway woods and hybrids into greens is like a professional playing an 8,100-yard layout. His idea, which has now been promoted by these two golf associations, is to encourage someone who hits their drives 225 yards to play from a distance of 5,800 to 6,000 yards, and for someone who drives it 200 yards to play from 5,200 to 5,400 yards. For those driving it 175 yards, a course length of 4,400 to 4,600 yards is more appropriate. At that length, players are hitting six and seven irons into greens—just like the pros—instead of fairway woods and hybrids. The first golf club in a major market to take up this cause is Tierra Rejada Golf Club in Ventura County, California, which has created its very own Players Course at 5,600 yards with a combination of completely new and strategically placed tee boxes to shorten the course and make landing areas more accessible and thus reducing the intimidation of long shots over ravines and lakes. Originally opened in 1999 north of the Los Angeles basin, this daily fee course is well-known for its natural beauty and stunning scenery with views of the Reagan Presidential Library, but can be a tough test from its back tees at 6,752 yards. The Players Course is 500 yards less than the shortest championship tees and offers a nice variety of hole distances with two of the five par 5 holes measuring less than 500 yards. Four of the Par 4s
36
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 1
are less than 300 yards, but with challenging greens and some tight fairways, even at this distance this course can be a good test for just about any golfer. “We accept the fact that a larger number of those who play our Championship Course come away feeling a bit beat up,” said Ted Kruger, the developer and co-owner of Tierra Rejada. “Golf is experiencing less frequency from average golfers and is losing older players because of difficulty. We are trying to put the fun back in Tierra Rejada—who ever said that golf shouldn’t be fun?” His sentiments echo what the USGA and the PGA are trying to do on the national level in trying to inject more fun and enjoyment into the golfing experience after more than two decades of a building boom that seemed to be a race to see who could build the biggest, hardest and badest layout just to bring recreational golfers to their knees. Kruger pointed to recent statistics by the National Golf Foundation that showed that golf gained 3.6 million new players in 2010, but also lost 4.6 million players for a net loss of one million. With statistics showing that core golf participation has been declining for a decade, studies have listed the cost, time and the game’s inherent difficulty as the chief factors for this slide. At Tierra Rejada all of these factors are addressed by the Players Course, along with some local rule modifications for lost balls, new drop areas and other pace of play initiatives to keep the flow of the game at a better pace. The Players Course has been in operation since late May and the public reaction has been overwhelming, according to Kruger. “We want to do our part at the micro level to keep people in the game, and to encourage others to take up the game for the first time,” added Kruger. “We think what we are doing with the Players Course will be a model for golf courses everywhere, not only for making the game fun, but also as a way to speed up play and increase business. We have been told that Bandon Dunes in Oregon has created its ‘Royal Blue’ course for men and women with a length of about 4,000 yards. We might just be on to something with this.” Of the many ideas being suggested and tried to get golfers back in the game or keep them from leaving, the simple solution of moving tee boxes up and making a few strategic local rule changes seems far and away to be the most practical, not to mention the most logical, way to bring more enjoyment back to this great recreational activity.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
FURNITURE THAT
F.I.T.S. Furniture In Tight Spaces
Shown with optional slipcover.
CUSTOM-BUILT IN OUR FACTORY IN HIGH POINT, NC Our array of full-size, mid-size and apartment size sofas, loveseats, chairs, ottomans and sleepers are all designed to fit through tight doorways, narrow staircases and in small rooms — Guaranteed! Simple assembly in only 15 minutes without tools. Choose from nearly 100 in-stock fabrics. Other options include fitted slipcovers and a choice of soft, firm or down-blend cushions. We use only 100% solid-oak frames that come with a lifetime guarantee. Our products contain no particle board, chip core or plywood. Perfect for your RV or boat, too. Place your furniture order online.
Order your FREE catalog and FREE fabric swatches online at www.simplicitysofas.com/freedelivery209. We also have hard-to-find, smaller-scaled sofas Ask about our stain-free, "pet-proof" fabrics • 4-week delivery for most orders
S I M P L I C I T Y S O FA S
www.simplicitysofas.com/freedelivery209
Free Shipping • No Late Fees • Cancel Anytime New Releases and Classic Games
=0+,6 .(4,
9,5;(3: +,30=,9,+ ;6 @6<9 +669
SIGN UP AT
www.gamefly.com/print ENTER CODE: NEWS85 Free on Your iPhone, iPad, Android & Palm Devices Over 8,000 Games at Your Fingertips *New members only. Free trial valid in the 50 United States only, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit one per household. First-time customers only. Internet access and valid payment method required to redeem offer. GameFly will begin to bill your payment method for the plan selected at sign-up at the completion of the free trial unless you cancel prior to the end of the free trial. Plan prices subject to change. Please visit www.gamefly.com/terms for complete Terms of Use. Free Trial Offer expires 12/31/2011.