Golf Vacations Magazine July 2010 by Golf Vacations Magazine

ENTER THE “WEAR IN THE WORLD” SWEEPSTAKES . . . PAGE 5

Our

8th

Year!

GOLF VACATIONS JULY 2010

ROMONTORY CLUB

ARK CITY’S PAINTED VALLEY

GATORS, GUMBO AND GREAT GOLF

AUDUBON GOLF TRAIL PLUS:

Hickory Stick Golf Course I More Sweet Stuff I My Turn

contents I july 2010

cover

stories

Promontory: Variety Is The Spice Of Life by Larry Feldman

Set in the breathtaking landscape of Park City, Utah, Promontory is blessed with one of Pete Dye’s best layouts, a Jack Nicklaus Signature tract so tough you better bring your “A-Game” and three more championship courses slated for construction in the foreseeable future. Now, that’s a country club worth getting excited about.

Gators, Gumbo and Golf In Louisiana by Fred Robledo

“We want everyone to have a great time when they visit Louisiana,” said Eric Kaspar, Director of Golf for the AGC. “Everyone already knows about all of the fine music and food we have in our state. We are trying to show them we have some pretty outstanding golf courses, too.”

departments 8 ChipShots Updates From The World Of Golf & Travel

11 Fashion Forward

by Terry Ross

Fairway and Greene’s Modern Approach To Latest Apparel

26 Sweet Stuff adidas Golf, TaylorMade Bags, TR3 Speed Stik/Training Glove

28 Destinations Your Link To Great Resort Golf Locales

30 My Turn

by James McAfee

What’s With The 14th Green At Pebble Beach Golf Club?

on the cover: President Obama at Farm Neck GC, Martha’s Vineyard

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G O L F V A C A T I O N S â&#x20AC;˘ J U L Y 2010

CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Larry Feldman is a nationally published freelance golf journalist of more than 17 years. Based in Park City, Utah, his writing has appeared in such high-profile publications as Southern California Golf News, Palm Springs Life, Golf Tips, Sports Profiles and Men’s Look.

James McAfee is a freelance golf and travel writer based in Wylie, TX. He was executive director of the Northern Texas PGA for 17 years and executive director of the Dallas District Golf Association for eight years. With editor stints at Golf Shop Operations, Golf Digest and Texas Golfer Magzaine he is currently the director of communications for GolfDFW.com. He has been a member of the Golf Writers of America for 37 years and was one of the founders for the Texas Golf Writers Association. Playing the game for 56 years he was recently named to the U.S. Amateur Golf Hall of Fame.

Fred Robledo has been covering professional golf for more than 30 years. He wrote for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner and the Los Angeles Times before moving into public relations where he promoted professional tour events for Brener Zwikel & Associates. He is now semi-retired, traveling the country and reviewing golf destinations for Golf Vacations Magazine.

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 Jeffrey Diaz Associate Editor Terry Ross Features Editor Larry Feldman

Staff Writers Fred Robledo Rob Mottram For Editorial: call: (760) 774-2655 e-mail: INFO@GolfVacationsMag.com

Regional Advertising Los Angeles • 949-279-7801 Terry Ross - terryross@cox.net

Atlanta • 770-971-1616 John Reock - reock@mindspring.com

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Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course REDEFINES WESTERN NEW YORK GOLF LANDSCAPE LEWISTON, N.Y. – Western New York has a new destination that the golfing public is sure to notice. Representatives from the Seneca Nation of Indians, Seneca Gaming Corporation and the Town of Lewiston joined together recently to celebrate the ceremonial opening of Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course, a $25 million public golf course that officially opened for play on July 2. The challenging par-72 layout was designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. “Today is the dawning of a new era in golf in Western New York and the start of an exciting new venture for Seneca Gaming Corporation,” said Kevin W. Seneca, Chairman, Seneca Gaming Corporation. “Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course will certainly add to the world-class environment that visitors to our Four Diamondrated Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel resort currently enjoy and provide travelers another reason to visit Lewiston, the Greater Niagara Region and Western New York.” Located on 257 acres of land, Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course features a magnificent layout with significant water features, five sets of tees on every hole and pristine grounds which golfers of every skill will enjoy and appreciate. Among its unique design features are strategically placed bunkers surrounded by tall heather and a double green for the 9th and 18th holes, a layout more commonly found in Europe than in North America. “This is truly a people’s golf course,” said Bruce Charlton, pres-

G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 0

ident and chief design officer of RTJ2 Golf Course Architects, who was on hand for the opening. “From its public nature to its fair yet challenging layout, Seneca Hickory Stick presents what every golfer is looking for – a memorable golf experience that you will appreciate and want to enjoy more than once.” In addition to its significance for Western New York, the project is also an historic achievement for the Seneca Nation of Indians, marking the Nation’s first off-territory development project. “The influence of the Seneca Nation of Indians can be seen throughout Western New York, far beyond the borders of our current territories,” said Seneca Nation President Barry E. Snyder, Sr. “Our businesses employ thousands of people from across the region and we do business with many local companies. Our casinos and resorts attract millions of visitors every year. Today, we celebrate the next step in our Nation’s journey and look forward to a long and successful endeavor here in Lewiston.” Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course is being managed by KemperSports, one of the world’s leading golf management and development companies, which manages an extensive portfolio of upscale clubs in 28 states, Puerto Rico and Central America. The general manager and golf pro at Seneca Hickory Stick is Fran Roach, while Gerry Doolittle is the course superintendent. For course information and tee times, call 716-754-2424 or visit www.senecahickorystick.com

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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 >> PARK HYATT AVIARA RESORT OPENS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Hyatt Hotels & Resorts recently announced the opening of Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad, Calif., just north of San Diego. A true California

retreat, designed in the Spanish colonial style, Park Hyatt Aviara is set off by palm trees, expansive gardens, rolling hills, and views of the Pacific Coast. First opened in 1997, the resort spans 205 acres set on the northern shore of the Batiquitos Lagoon, which is one of

California’s most precious, untouched wetlands with more than 130 species of birds and 24 varieties of flowering plants. Four restaurants, ranging from a poolside café, an airy bistro, a contemporary steakhouse, and an elegant dining room serving a regional Italian menu offer guests exceptional cuisine. All guestrooms are beautifully appointed and feature a marble bathroom with a commodious bathtub. Of the 329 rooms, 44 are suites and all rooms have a private balcony or a landscaped terrace. The resort is perfectly situated for active and leisurely retreats, as well as social mingling. A signature spa is 15,000 square feet and includes 20 treatment rooms and fitness center. A year-round destination for golf and tennis, the resort boasts an 18-hole champi-

onship golf course ranked as one of the top courses on the West Coast. The course, designed by Arnold Palmer, features exceptional practice facilities and a two-story Spanish colonial clubhouse. Club-fitting and instruction are offered at the acclaimed Kip Puterbaugh Aviara Golf Academy and TaylorMade Performance Lab. The six tennis courts, managed by Peter Burwash International, include two clay courts and four hard courts. There are 78,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Park Hyatt Aviara also features a Beach Butler who provides complimentary transportation to the beach (a 10-minute trip) and all the necessary amenities: chairs, beach umbrella, towels and blankets. The Beach Butler can also recommend locations and contacts for kayaking, snorkeling, deepsea fishing and other aquatic activities, and bring along ingredients for a morning coffee or afternoon picnic. For reservations and more information about Park Hyatt Aviara Resort and Spa, visit www.parkaviara.hyatt.com.

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“SUMMER ESCAPE AND PLAY” AT PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. -- PGA National Resort & Spa -- home of the PGA Tour Honda Classic -- announced its valuerich "Summer Escape and Play" package, featuring spa access for two, instruction at the David Leadbetter Academy, and unlimited golf on its five championship courses.

Loaded with more than $500 in valueadds, the Summer Escape and Play is available through October 15, 2010 with packages starting at $139 per night (Sun. -Thurs.) and $169 (Fri. -- Sat). Bag storage, range balls, access to tournament-level prac-

tice facilities, breakfast for two, and two-forone cocktails at iBAR, PGA National's casual chic lobby bar, are also included. "The Summer Escape and Play is perfect for local and regional golfers who want to maximize their experience at PGA National," says Joel Paige, Vice President and Managing Director of PGA National. "From dawn-to-dusk-golf and luxury spa treatments, to relaxing poolside and fine dining, the package has something for everyone." PGA National offers a variety of ways to beat the summer heat. Spa guests can take in the "Waters of the World," a collection of outdoor mineral pools from the healing waters of the Earth's most treasured locations. The resort's zero-entry pool -- located centrally to the hotel --- is a refreshing,

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tropical retreat surrounded by lush palm trees. The poolside Wave Bar & Grille serves an eclectic mix of frozen drinks and mesquite grilled favorites. For more information or to make reservations, visit www.pgaresort.com, or call (800) 533.9386. A minimum two-night stay is required; package rates do not include resort and golf cart fees. A $50 surcharge applies to play The Champion -- site of the Honda Classic and famous "Bear Trap" -one of the most demanding, three-hole stretches on the PGA TOUR. Complimentary instructional clinics at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy are available Thursday -- Saturday at 5 p.m. as a part of the Summer Escape and Play Package. The resort's storied golf history includes hosting the 1983 Ryder Cup, 1987 PGA Championship, and nearly two decades of the Senior PGA Championship. In addition to The Champion, PGA National's award-winning golf courses are: The Palmer, The Haig, The Squire and The Estates.

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.

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FASHIONFORWARD

FAIRWAY AND GREENE by Terry Ross

olf apparel certainly has entered new territory. Today’s styles and trends reflect the new era of fashion and fit, with comfort and versatility among the primary attributes that both men and woman place high on their priority list when it comes to outfitting themselves. Fairway and Greene, the Shelton, Connecticut-based company that has been providing fine golf clothing to country clubs and resorts since 1995, has taken a decidedly modern approach to their latest lines of apparel, even though their client-base is one that many would call old school. The Fairway & Greene Men’s fall 2010 Collection includes four distinctively colored and styled collections for every taste and geographic region. The Monterey Bay Collection, which includes knit shirts, Pureformance™, Pureformance™ fleece, classic jersey, sweaters, woven shirts and bottoms—was inspired from the sky, sand, sea and landscape of this spectacular, popular California coastal location.

Monterey Bay Collection The shirt selections are comprised of the company’s original Signature Lisle, which is a 100 percent mercerized Egyptian cotton shirt and F&G’s Pureformance ™, which is a proprietary blend of cotton and wicking polyester. The Savannah Collection represents a departure—a new experiment, if you will—for F&G. The Savannah Collection feels more like the islands—or the www.golfvacationsmag.com

Southeast, Southwest or California—than the company’s typical Fall color palette. While Savannah’s silhouette is targeted to

Savannah Collection attract younger golfers, the collection still will appeal to older golfers. There are also some vintage, bigger, bolder rugby stripes in the collection, which is a little preppy. The Savannah category—which comes in marine, flamingo, jade, coral, plum, white and chambray—includes knit shirts, Pureformance™, Pureformance™ Fleece, Classic Jersey, sweaters, woven shirts and bottoms. The Donegal Collection features the quintessential Fairway and Greene Fall color palette, which is very reminiscent of Europe and, in particular, Northwest Ireland—hence the Donegal name. The classic, rich menswear colors speak to the company’s customers, and play off on some gorgeous colors such as rich European plaids and paisleys. The Donegal Collection—which comes in French blue, wine, fir, straw, java and vanilla—includes knit shirts, Pureformance™, Pureformance™ fleece, classic jersey, sweaters, woven shirts, bottoms and outerwear. Fairway and Greene has found most men consider the golf shop as their own private clothier, and the Kensington Collection is very reminiscent of the Kensington section of London, which represents high society. Kensington is a refined collection, with a very narrow delivery. Most of the shirts feature self-

fabric collars with luxe fibers. Kensington also takes a trip back to some vintage heritage pieces, such as baby alpaca vests. Kensington—which comes in moonlight, merlot, vanilla, cognac and black—includes knit shirts, sweaters, woven shirts, bottoms and outerwear. The Fall line for ladies from Fairway and Greene features versatility, added Bell. “We wanted to have choices that are versatile on and off the golf course.” For Fall 2010, F &G has introduced three uniquely colored ladies’ collections. Fairway and Greene’s very cheerful Ladies’ Coral Gable Collection is designed to be fun. Besides petal and strawberry, the other colors in the Coral Gable Collection—which includes bottoms and knit shirts—are white, clover, black and martini print. The Highland Collection is named for areas that typically see a change of seasons. Highland—whose colors include navy, peacock, white, pomegranate, camel, Skye paisley print and gemma grid print— consists of bottoms, knit shirts, F&G Tech, pima interlock, sweaters and outerwear. The Sutton Place Collection’s colors are reminiscent of New York in the fall—ever changing. The inspiration for this line is the sights around New York City. The line consists of bottoms, knit shirts, F&G Tech, Pima interlock, sweaters and outerwear. For more information on Fairway and Greene: www.fairwayandgreene.com Coral Gables Collection

G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

PROMONTORY Where

Variety Is the S

Spice of Life

Nicklaus Course Hole 12

By Larry Feldman

Horsing Around

Dye Course Hole 15

Relaxing At The Alpine Lodge

hy would anyone want to play the same golf course over and over again?

Now, if we’re talking Augusta National, Cypress Point, Pine Valley, Muirfield and the like, I can understand it. But, to join one of the million country clubs in our nation and play the same 18 holes every week seems a bit lackluster, if you ask me. That’s why I have always said that if I ever became a member of a country club, it would be a club that would offer me real variety in golf. Hello Promontory. Set in the breathtaking landscape of Park City, Utah, Promontory is blessed with one of Pete Dye’s best layouts, a Jack Nicklaus Signature tract so tough you better bring your “A-Game” and three more championship courses slated for construction in the foreseeable future.

Tennis Anyone?

Now, that’s a country club worth getting excited about. Overlooking Park City and Deer Valley, Promontory is a second-home community consuming 10-square miles of prime land in the Wasatch Mountain region, with 70% of that land set aside for open space, golf, hiking, horseback riding, snowshoeing and mountain biking. Located just 30 minutes from Salt Lake International Airport, Promontory offers every amenity you can think of, from outstanding pro shops and locker area, a restaurant that offers up spectacular cuisine and maybe better views, an Outfitter’s Cabin that headquarters summer and winter member activities and a Kid’s-Only Clubhouse. The Ranch Clubhouse provides tennis, swimming, ice-skating, a fitness center and spa facility. Homesites range from one-half acre to 40 acres and are priced from the mid-$300,000’s. And while the social benefits are many at Promontory, it’s all about the golf when you get right down to it. With two courses of this magnitude, it’s no wonder that Promontory is one of the most sought-after golf developments in the country.

Nicklaus Course Hole 15

The Pete Dye Canyon Course checks in at just under 7,700 yards from the tips (remember, there’s elevation) and plays like two separate courses – one nine through the rugged canyons and the other like taking a walk on a long, winding and beautiful road. The front nine meanders through sagebrush hillsides overlooking Park City, Deer Valley and The Canyons ski resorts and is highlighted by a downhill, dogleg right, 670-yard Par 5. Even with a strong tailwind, this hole requires three shots. In total, the hole drops 134 from tee to green and, ironically, going long on your approach is like going gone. Another great hole is the shortest of the bunch on the front side, although at 299 yards, the Par 3 8th hole is anything but short. As picturesque as they come, this hole offers safe passage only if you miss right. Miss left and a double stares you in the face. The final hole on the outward nine brings water into play on this 458yard, Par 4. A lake guards the entire approach to the green, which is complete with undulation one can only find on a Pete Dye putting surface. If you’re not close to the pin, three putts are in the forecast.

Family Fun On The Water

G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

Enjoy A Fire At The Clubhouse

G O L F VA C AT I O N S â&#x20AC;˘ J U L Y 2 0 1 0

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The 12th hole is an absolutely fantastic hole that blends the best of what design and nature have to offer. A 433-yard Par 4, this downhill, dogleg left offers an approach to a green that’s not easy to determine whether your putt is uphill or downhill. Take par and run to the next tee. A classic risk/reward hole is the 15th, a Par 4 measuring 441 yards. The risk is the entire golf hole, the reward the views of Deer Valley framing the green. If you hit a good tee shot, a demanding approach shot still awaits to a long and narrow green. Again, the severely undulating green lends itself to many three putts. “When I walked Promontory for the first time, I was amazed at how well the land lends itself to golf,” said Pete Dye. It’s a great golf experience that everyone should enjoy. The course should land in the top 100.” The heck with the top 100, Promontory quickly found itself at the top, especially when Nicklaus’ Painted Desert course came into the mix. Promontory has been rated in the top 100 golf communities in the U.S. for the past four years. The Painted Valley course was ranked as a top new private course by Golf Digest, Travel & Leisure and Golfweek magazines. If you thought the Dye was long, that’s nothing compared to the Painted Desert’s nearly 8,100 yards. Good news is that you get to hammer your driver all day long. Two of the Par 4s are over 500 yards and none of them are under 400 yards. Water hazards come into play on several holes on the course, particularly on the back nine. The 6th-13th holes play uphill and into the wind and are as tough a test of golf you’ll ever encounter from the tips. While the prospect of navigating such great lengths, the most challenging part of the course may well be the severely undulated greens that require precision and touch to two-putt, especially when the greens are kept at a slick 10+ on the stimpmeter. With a rating/slope of 78.7/155 from the tips, Painted Valley delivers as one of the most difficult tracks in the world. The Par 5, 12th is the signature of the Nicklaus Signature. At 673 yards, this hole typifies everything at the Promontory course; big, long, and difficult! Big views of the valley and mountain surroundings abound at this larger than life hole that plays downhill to the heavily bunkered fairway. The double dogleg hole tips out at 673 yards which shockingly isn't even the longest par five on the course (the opening hole is 718 yards). But, it’s the most difficult Par 5 on the course as it plays severely downhill from the tee and then back uphill and into the prevailing wind when approaching the green. It is a great hole that embraces the feel and theme of Promontory. So, there you have it…hiking, biking, horseback riding, ice skating, tennis, dining, a world-class fitness center to get your blood going and a spa to sooth those tired muscles, all while your kids are being entertained in their very own clubhouse. In short, Promontory has it all. Oh yeah, and some of the best golf you’re ever gonna play.

Promontory Park City, Utah (888) 458-6600 www.PromontoryClub.com

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G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

Louisiana

GATORS, GUMBO AND GOLF In A Sportsman’s Paradise By Fred Robledo

G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 0

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There are three things a visitor to Louisiana should know before embarking on a golf vacation. 1.

Never, under any circumstances, try to hit a golf shot if your ball comes to rest near an alligator. You are going to see some of these guys in the lakes and bayous around some of the golf courses in Louisiana, but stay away from them. You get free relief and don’t even worry about trying to retrieve your original ball.

Always keep track of time when enjoying the nightlife. From the countless restaurants and clubs offering a variety of Cajun and Creole cuisine ranging from gumbo to catfish, to the rhythmic bayou sounds of jazz, bluegrass, gospel and blues oozing from the open doorways of packed nightclubs, one can eat and drink oneself into such a stupor, it would be easy to lose track of time and fail to make your coveted tee time the next day.

When selecting a course, always, always play one of the courses on the Audubon Golf Trail. While there are many outstanding golf courses throughout the state, only 12 are part of the AGT which means that course has been inspected, dissected, selected and certified to meet rigid standards of quality one would expect to find on a quality golf course. “We want everyone to have a great time when they visit Louisiana,” said Eric Kaspar, Director of Golf for the AGC. “Everyone already knows about all of the fine music and food we have in our state. We are trying to show them we have some pretty outstanding golf courses, too.” Golf is the latest tourist attraction to Louisiana and to make sure visitors have a chance to play the finest courses, the state instituted the Audubon Golf Trail in 2001. The AGC is an alliance of high-caliber, high-value golf facilities that combine golf with unique Louisiana culture, outdoor recreational opportunities and hospitality. “It’s our stamp of approval,” Kaspar said. “We started with six courses, had 13 at one time, and now we have 12. Courses that are part of this alliance have benefited greatly because they are getting visitors from all over who want to experience golf on the Audubon Golf Trail.” Louisiana natives and PGA Touring golf pros Hal Sutton, David Toms and Steve Elkington along with world-renown golf architects such as Pete Dye and Robert van Hagge are among those who designed the courses. During a recent five-day stay in the state, I played five of the 12 AGT courses and covered 200 miles from New Orleans to Lake Charles. Between rounds I stayed at three different hotels, dined at variety of fine restaurants and even took a tour of an alligator-infested swamp. The first course I played was the Audubon Park Executive Golf Course, a gorgeous little layout not far from the French www.golfvacationsmag.com

Quarter. It is unique because it is accessible by streetcar. The only course on the AGT exempt from having a minimum par of 70, it is also special because golf has been played at Audubon since 1898 making it the oldest golf course in the state. The par-62 course is spread over 81 tree-lined acres and the holes meander through and around four lagoons. Recently, the course was awarded 4.5 of 5 stars on Golf Digest’s Best Places to play rankings. Although it measures only 4,220 yards, the course, designed by Denis Griffith, challenges players of all abilities to make good decisions because water comes into play on 12 of the 18 holes. Some of the holes look tantalizing easy, but on the day I played, the wind was up which brought bunkers and lagoons into play. A well-struck shot can balloon and blow into a lagoon or come up short into a bunker that required only a carry of 120 yards. There are two par-fives on the course – the 9th and 18th – and four par-fours ranging from 282 to 360 yards. Your ego can receive a boost at Audubon, but even if you play poorly, you cannot feel bad about your score because you are mesmerized by the beauty of the course which is nestled among hundreds of majestic century-old oaks and across the street from the Audubon Zoo. On the back nine you will find yourself waving at some of the joggers who like to use the running trail to stay fit. On the second day of my trip to Louisiana, it was another short drive from the French Quarter to the dazzling TPC Louisiana, home of the Zurich Classic, the only PGA TOUR event in the state. Located across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, the course is a testament what Pete Dye can do with 250 acres of pristine land that features natural wetlands and stately Cypress and Oak trees. Steve Elkington and Louisiana native Kelly Gibson worked with Dye on the design, but make no mistake; this course has all of the earmarks of a typical Dye course – pot bunkers, spectator mounds, lakes and rolling fairways. With five sets of tees, TPC Louisiana can challenge PGA TOUR caliber players from the tips (7,402 yards, 76.6 rating, 138 slope) as well as make a round enjoyable for high-handicappers from the Club tees (5,121 yards, 69.2 rating, 119 slope). It really is important to play from the correct tees to get the G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

Places to stay while playing Audubon Golf Trail courses: New Orleans – Astor Crowne Plaza, 793 Canal Street. Phone: 504-962-0500. Located in the middle of the French Quarter where Bourbon Street meets Canal Street, this is an ideal place to stay while playing the TPC Louisiana, the Audubon Park Golf Course and The Atchafalaya at Idlewild. This is an elegant 693-room hotel which is perfect for business or pleasure with more than 32,000 square feet of meeting and function space. The excitement of the French Quarter, whether your pleasure is world-renowned dining or the intoxication sounds of jazz, is right outside your door. The hotel is home to Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House Restaurant and Seafood Bar. There are also nearby attractions like Harrah’s Casino, the Aquarium of the Americas, Jackson Square, Morial Convention Center, Riverwalk Shopping, the New Orleans Sports Arena and the Superdome www.astorneworleans.com Lafayette – Holiday Inn, 2032 NE Evangeline Thruway. Phone: 337-233-6815. Ideally located at the intersection of I-10 and I-49, this friendly hotel is a great place to stay if you are playing the Atchafalaya at Idlewild or The Wetlands which is only a few minutes from the hotel. This hotel has 242 newly renovated guest rooms and is recognized for its Cajun restaurant Bistro du Cayenne’s. It is close to the Lafayette Regional Airport and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Free high speed wireless internet and free airport transportation are offered. This also is a full service pet friend hotel with a family fun park that includes indoor pool, tennis, volleyball, soccer, basketball and Kid’s Safe playground. www.hilafayette.com Lake Charles – La Quinta Inn & Suites, 1201 W. Prien Lake Rd, Phone: 337-478-9889. Located near Highway 210, this is the place to stay if you are going to play Gray Plantation which is only a few minutes away from the hotel. This hotel also is conveniently located close to dining, shopping, business and area casinos. Free high speed internet is available. The sparkling year-round outdoor pool and Jacuzzi offer you a place to unwind after a day of golf. Other hotel amenities include meeting facilities, a business center, and guest laundry facilities, rooms with 42-inch flat panel TVs and free breakfast and newspaper. www.LQ.com

The Atchafalaya At Idlewild

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Audubon Park

most enjoyment from this course. A 16-handicap, I played from the recommended Tournament tees (6,610 yards, 72.3 rating, 131 slope), but probably should have moved up to the Players tees (6,171 yards, 69.8 rating, 119 slope) because of the strong wind that day. The fairways are lush and generous, but you will pay a dear penalty if you miss them because pot bunkers and waste bunkers will swallow our errant shots. After a couple of serene opening holes, water comes into play for the first time at the par-three third hole. There are six bodies of water and the wet stuff comes into play on seven holes. One of the most intriguing holes is the par-four 16th where you might encounter a 12-foot alligator which likes to roam in the lake that surrounds the green. The signature hole is the last one, a dogleg right par-five that features bunkers and a lake along the entire right side of the fairway. It is a risk/reward hole one must make the correct decisions or pay the consequences. The TPC Louisiana experience left me wanting to spend more time on a course that can intoxicate you with its beauty and serenity. Day three started with a 90-minute drive to play The Atchafalaya at Idlewild. This course is definitely off the beaten path, but worth the ride from New Orleans, Baton Rouge or Lafayette. After playing the course, I though Atchafalaya meant water, www.golfvacationsmag.com

water and more water. I was close to being right. It is an Indian word meaning “long river.” Robert von Hagge designed the course which was named by Golfweek in 2009 as the No. 1 course among its “Best Courses You Can Play” list. Twenty years in the making, the course was designed to promote the Atchafalaya Basin region, one of America’s most fertile and unspoiled areas. There are five lakes and 10 native wetlands surrounded by 40 specious of indigenous flora on the course. Surrounded by all of that beauty, von Hagge moved more than 500,000 yards of soil to create dramatic elevations and viewing vistas. The course can play as long as 7,533 from the Gator tees to as friendly as 5,263 yards from the Otter tees. Water comes into play (not only from lakes, but from streams, ditches, ponds and creeks, as well) on 16 holes. I played Atchafalaya from the Blue Eagle tees (6,520 yards, 71.9 rating, 127) and found it to be fair and enjoyable. The fairways were generous and the greens were large with a lot of undulation. Although you had to pay attention to all of the water, you can score on this course if you plan properly and execute your shots. The 13th hole was the most interesting on the course. A 473yard par-five from the Blues, you can put yourself in position to go for the green in two with a drive that clears a bunker complex. G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

There is water to the right and behind the green, however, and only the bravest will go for the pin when it’s in the back/right portion of the green. After a round, Cajun fare along with traditional favorites is available in the 10,00-square foot clubhouse which also features large flat-screen HD televisions. The next stop on my journey was The Wetlands, deep in the heart of Cajun country in Lafayette. Designed by Frank Burandt, The Wetlands opened in 2006 and is the newest member of the Audubon Golf Trail. The first thing I noticed upon arriving at the course was the excellent practice facility which featured target greens, practice bunkers, a chipping green and a putting green. If you give yourself enough time, you have no excuses for not playing your best at The Wetlands.

My final stop on Day Five was Gray Plantation in Lake Charles, the fifth largest city in the state. This was one of the most interesting places on my sojourn through the southern portion of the state. There is a local legend that pirate Jean Lafitte buried some of his treasures on the sandy shores of Lake Charles. This legend is celebrated each spring with a two-week Contraband Days Pirate Festival. When a visitor asks if it’s possible some of that bounty might be buried under some of the land at the Gray Plantation, the answer is always, “Maybe.” The golf course quickly made a name for itself in 2000 when Golf Digest ranked it No. 3 on its “Best New Courses in America” list. Five years later, it was named 75th out of 100 of America’s greatest public courses.

The second thing I noticed was the extremely large finishing green that actually is a double green for the 9th and 18th holes.

Located on the banks of the Calcasieu River, the course, designed by Rocky Roquemore, features 60 acres of lakes and moss-draped pines.

This is a links-style course with very few trees, but with native flora and grasses which gives the course a natural look. There are wide, rolling fairways and large greens, but beware because wind is always a factor and water comes into play on 11 of the 18 holes.

The signature hole on the course is the shortest one, the No. 6 par-three hole that played to 146 yards into a strong wind the day I played. Did I mention that’s 146 yards over water to the smallest green on the course?

The course plays to 7,293 yards from the tips (74.9 rating, 134 slope) to 5,015 yards from the forward tees (68.7 rating, 110 slope).

There is ample water on the course as it comes into play on 12 holes. In fact, there also is an alligator that came into play on the day I played it. The gator was enjoying himself in the sun alongside the lake in front of the green at the eighth hole.

With clam winds, you can post a pretty good score on this course. Unfortunately for me, the wind was blowing about 30 miles an hour and turned it into a very difficult day to score. It made a difference of two to three clubs when hitting directly into the wind, but made me feel like a long hitter when it was helping me.

At the end of my final day in the state, I enjoyed the outstanding cuisine and hospitality in the Cypress Grill which overlooked the 18th green. The food was terrific, the views were breathtaking and the memories will remain forever.

Gray Plantation

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G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

The Courses:

The Audubon Golf Trail To be considered for membership, a course must make a five-year commitment to participation on the AGT. Courses must work with the AGT for starting times to be made available through the AGT Reservation System. Courses must play to a minimum of par 70 and have a distance of at least 6,500 yards from the back tees. Courses must have a minimum of 20 practice stations and practice balls must be Spaulding or of a similar quality. Courses must have a signature hole, drinking water at least every three holes, restrooms and concessions, and a halfway house if the front nine does not return to the clubhouse. The courses are evaluated and rated for course condition, customer service, and esthetics, condition of facilities, course design, challenge and playability.

BLACK BEAR Delhi, LA. Phone 318-878-2162. Designed by Bechtol Russell Golf of Austin, Texas, with construction by Weitz Golf International, Black Bear Golf Course lies on approximately 300 acres atop the Macon Ridge. The Bogzag and Cypress creeks bisect the property and offer significant wetlands features. The routing of the course generally follows, and then crosses, the creeks and offers passes through the heavily treed creek bottoms. The result is a course with varied topography that weaves from tree lined holes to open holes. Holes – 18 Slope – 123 - 145 Rating – 67.4 – 75.9 www.blackbear-golf.com The Wetlands

For reservations to play any of the courses on the AGT, call 1-888-248-4652 or call the courses directly. AUDUBON PARK New Orleans, LA. Phone: 504-212-5290 Holes – 18 Slope – 104 Rating – 61.6 www.auduboninstitute.org/visit/golf TPC LOUISIANA New Orleans, LA. Phone: 504-436-8721. Holes – 18 Slope – 119 - 138 Rating – 69.7 - 76.6 www.tpc.com/louisiana THE ATCHAFALAYA AT IDLEWILD Patterson, LA. Phone: 985-395-4653. Holes – 18 Slope – 124 - 144 Rating – 69.8 - 77.6 www.atchafalayagolf.com/ THE WETLANDS Lafayette, LA. Phone: 337-291-7150. Holes – 18 Slope – 110 - 134 Rating – 67.3 - 74.9 www.wetlandsgc.com/ GRAY PLANTATION Lake Charles, LA. Phone: 337-562-1663. Holes – 18 Slope – 128 - 138 Rating – 71.1 - 73.6 www.graywoodllc.com/ 24

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CARTER PLANTATION Springfield, LA. Phone: 225-294-9855. Designed by David Toms, this course was named among the “Top 10 Courses You Can Play” by GOLF Magazine in 2003. The spectacular 18-hole, 7,050-yard, par-72 course plays through three distinct Louisiana landscapes—live oaks, cypress wetlands, and upland pine forests. Great effort has been made to preserve the plantation’s native wildlife habitats. A doubleended driving range, three practice greens, and practice bunkers are additional features of the course. With outstanding banquet facilities, a first-rate restaurant, and hospitable service at every turn, Carter Plantation offers a great venue for group outings as well as individual players. Holes – 18 Slope – 119-140 Rating – 67.6 - 74.4 www.carterplantation.com CYPRESS BEND GOLF RESORT Many, LA. Phone: 888-256-4366. This course features 10 holes along the water and six with shots across hidden coves and inlets. Surrounding hardwood forests, undulating greens and dramatic elevation changes add to Cypress Bend’s challenge and beauty. The sunset over #17 www.golfvacationsmag.com

The Courses: is as stunning as anything you’ll ever see. Cypress Bend Golf Resort & Conference Center boasts 96 oversized rooms with an elegant country inn décor, an exceptional restaurant with views over the lake, spa facilities and more. Holes – 18 Slope – 128 - 142 Rating – 68.3 - 72.7 www.cypressbend.com/ OAKWING GOLF CLUB Alexandria, LA. Phone: 318-561-0260. OakWing Golf Club, which opened in September 2002, offers a unique Jim Lipe design interwoven throughout its beautiful England Air Force Base location. This 7,043-yard, links-style course blends the natural beauty of Louisiana bayous, lakes and towering tree lined fairways with the challenge of rolling hills and undulating greens. Five different tee settings will offer a challenge for everyone from professionals to amateurs, and the classic risk-reward features designed into every hole will require everyone to play their best. Holes – 18 Slope – 112 - 125 Rating – 68.0 - 73.7 www.oakwinggolf.com/

THE ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB Plaquemine, LA. Phone: 225-685-0808 This par-72 course measures more than 7,000 yards from its championship tees and features 54 bunkers. Recently featured on the Golf Channel and in GOLF Magazine, this 160-acre TifEagle© course features nine man-made lakes, and water comes into play on 17 of the 18 holes. Solitude is the name of the game at The Island. Most times, only a blue heron is around to watch your next shot. The Island Bar & Grill features exceptional Louisiana fare that attracts golfers and non-golfers alike. Holes – 18 Slope – 128 - 143 Rating – 70.3 - 75.1 www.theislandgolf.com/

OLDE OAKS Haughton, LA. Phone: 318-742-0333. This course features 27 holes over 340 acres of rolling hills near Shreveport. It was designed in collaboration with 2004 PGA Ryder Cup Captain Hal Sutton, a native of the area. Sutton calls it his first signature course. Five sets of tees and generous fairways allow any level of golfer to truly enjoy their round. For the naturalist, almost every species of wildlife that is native to this area can be found at Olde Oaks, and many of them can be spotted during a round of golf. Holes – 18 Slope – 112 - 139 Rating – 69.4 – 75.1 www.oldeoaksgolf.com TAMAHKA TRAILS GOLF CLUB Marksville, LA. Phone: 318-240-6300. Natural beauty cloaks an endless series of subtle, surprising challenges. Master golf course architect Steve Smyers coupled his “new school” design with a passionate appreciation of Scotland’s legendary courses to create 18 holes of pure perfection. Its numerous and often massive bunkers evoke a lunar landscape—and always require strategy. Tamahka Trails offers GPS in all carts. The practice facility includes 50,000 square feet of hitting area, a 10,000-square-foot putting green, and practice greens dedicated to bunker play, chipping and pitching. Holes – 18 Slope – 121 - 133 Rating – 69.0 - 74.4 www.paragoncasinoresort.com www.golfvacationsmag.com

TPC Louisiana

G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

by Terry Ross

SWEETSTUFF I

n most recreational sports, practice and training attire is readily available. Golf has been the big exception where all of the major equipment and apparel manufacturers have pretty much ignored clothing for practicing and the many hours that a lot of players spend on the driving range--until now. Adidas Golf, the parent company of TaylorMade, researched consumer demands in the golf market and discovered there was a need for an option that golfers could wear when practicing. So it created Rangewear, a lightweight, comfortable jacket and pant combination that gives golfers performance and style specifically when on the driving range. Similar to the traditional warm-up outfit, Rangewear is designed for golfers who are practicing and want a little more style and function in what they wear. "When we looked at what people were wearing on the range, we found a gap between the recognized, complete golf outfit and something casual to practice in," said Patricia Dahan, Senior Director of Global Apparel at adidas Golf. "It became about being comfortable and relaxed--and Rangewear delivers on all of those promises. Golfers can be comfortable and stylish when practicing and still benefit from the performance they would expect from adidas Golf apparel." Men's Rangewear consists of a slightlyfitted, lightweight polyester jacket and pant featuring 3-Stripes branding. The Rangewear jacket comes equipped with an internal MP3 pocket with a pass-through eyelet for headphones, giving golfers the opportunity to tune in to music and tune everything else out. The Rangewear Pant includes an elastic waistband with an internal drawstring for comfort and a tee holder on the left pocket. Men's Rangewear pieces also go well with the new ClimaCool T-shirt, 100% polyester CoolMax Extreme jersey, contributing to the comfort, performance and

G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 0

style of the Rangewear concept. Men's Rangewear is offered in one color, black, and available only at green grass accounts and golf specialty accounts nationwide, in addition to the adidas web site: www.shop.adidasgolf.com

Women's Rangewear features ClimaLite® technology fabricated with a polyester/Lycra® blend making the fabric highly-breathable and lightweight to help wick moisture away from the skin. Both jacket and pant have a yoga-inspired fit to add a stylish look and include contrast adidas brandmarking. Like men's, the women's jacket is also equipped with an internal MP3 pocket with a pass through eyelet for headphones. The pant also includes an elastic waistband with an internal drawstring for comfort and a tee holder on the left pocket. Women's Rangewear is offered in two colors-- black and navy. For more information on adidas Rangewear: www.adidasgolf.com

and other valuables without having to dig through cluttered pockets during a round. With the separate purchase of one of six Fast Action Snap Technology cases, golfers can quickly and easily affix these accessories onto corresponding rivets which line the outside of all of the new 2010 bag models. "The hassle of digging through the pockets of your golf bag for golf accessories and personal belongings is over," said Jose Miraflor, TaylorMade's category leader for golf bags. "The introduction of Fast Action Snap Technology provides golfers with an easy solution and is yet another example of our attention to detail and commitment to engineering the most functional golf bags in the marketplace." Other advancements featured in the new line include lighter bags, conveniently placed pockets, and enhanced durability. All bags incorporate full-length internal dividers making it easier and more efficient to maintain club organization and prevent grips from tangling deep within the cavity of the bags. A highlight among the TaylorMade golf bags are the Tour Bag Collection—ranging from the TMX Staff Bag like the pros carry

ust like golf clubs, the bags that players use these days to carry their sticks in have made some remarkable advances in style and technology. TaylorMade Golf, which has been on the forefront in driver technology, has spread its innovation into the golf bag arena in a big way this year with an accent on performance and functionality. Leading the innovation charge and representing the biggest leap in functionality is a new TaylorMade bag system called Fast Action Snap Technology, a seamless way for golfers to access important accessories such as GPS, rangefinders, phones, cigar holders

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by Terry Ross

SWEETSTUFF with a 9 _-inch top and the red, white and black design, along with two smaller models with the same design and color scheme that includes all the bells and whistles. The TMX T2 Cart Bag boasts all of the sophistication, feel and functionality of a Staff Bag in a lighter and slightly smaller package that fits better on a power cart, but is designed for the the player who appreciates the Tour look. It has is more manageable bag for everyday play with an 8 _-inch, 6-way velour top with full length dividers and plenty of accessory pockets. The third member of this collection is the Tour Stand Bag featuring the same design, but in a 6.8-pound carry bag for those who like to hoof it. This bag features five pockets and the Fast Action Snaps. In the Cart Bag Collection the Marenello, Catalina and Monoco bags stand out with their insulated cooler pockets, rugged construction and functionality for those that like to ride. Variety is abundant in TaylorMade’s Stand Bags, featuring the Pure-Lite at less than five pounds, the R9 and Burner stand bags and the Micro-Lite at less than four pounds. The Hybrid Bags are designed for players who like to both ride and walk and don’t want to switch out bags, featuring the TM Supreme at less than six pounds that has a cooler pocket, expandable side pocket and a quick release shoulder strap. For more information on the new TaylorMade golf bags: www.taylormadegolfgear.com

eeping the proper grip and developing a repeatable, quick athletic swing are two areas of golf training the TaylorMade has addressed with two of its latest accessory additions. The TR3 Speed Stik by TaylorMade is a classic training aid taken to the next level to match the needs and expectations of Tour professionals, Club Professionals, and aver-

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age golfers alike. While the TR3 Speed Stick will accurately measure your swing speed, that is only the beginning of the game enhancement features, including strength training, grooving the proper swing plane and improving t e m p o . Updated a n d redesigned to be more useful and more manageable, the TR3 Speed Stick is a great training tool to use at home, in the gym or on the range. It can also be used as a stretching pole or warm-up club, since the 650 gram Speed Stik overloads the swing, developing golf muscles for strength and speed. It measures swing speeds from 60 to 140 MPH delivering instant swing feedback, and its 46 inch length promotes a flatter swing plane that corrects steep out-to-in or over-the-top swings. A new tapering grip area allows for a multi-compound grip that delivers maximum traction under high speeds. Alignment Arrows allow the Speed Stik to be used as an alignment aid while practicing, and the new collapsible design allows for easy storage in a golf bag, locker, or luggage while traveling with its black ripstop nylon storage pouch. Another handy helper on the range is the TR3 Grip Training Glove that can be a great way to train your hands to stay in the proper grip throughout the

swing and get the feel of the correct grip on the club while practicing. Significant research has confirmed that errors in the grip are one of the most common challenges for Club Professionals working with students today. With the TR3 Grip Training Glove, the correct grip can be locked into place for hitting full practice shots, allowing the golfer to concentrate on swing mechanics, and avoid the common "re-grip" problem. A fully-functional golf glove made with high grade materials and quality craftsmanship, this training aid easily transitions to a USGA legal playing glove when not in the locked position. The performance elastic strap training system holds your grip in place for improved gripping position, grip pressure, tempo and mechanics. The AAA grade Cabretta leather delivers exceptional feel while the performance 3M Scotchgard enhances durability, stain resistance, and softness after repeated use. Double sided Velcro closure systems secure your grip in place. For more information on TaylorMade training aids visit their website at: www.taylormadegolfgear.com

G O L F V A C A T I O N S • J U L Y 2010

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G O L F VA C AT I O N S • J U L Y 2 0 1 0

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WHERE TO STAY

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MYTURN

14th GREEN AT PEBBLE BEACH by JamesMcAfee

hen the U.S. Open returns to Pebble Beach Golf Club, I hope that the green on No. 14 has been renovated. I'm sure some of the participants in this year's U.S. Open had some choice words about that green, but most didn't go on record as telling the media what they really felt. When some of the game's elite, like Ian Poulter, Y.E. Yang, Paul Casey and Lee Westwood, make the numbers they did, something doesn't seem right or even fair. The approach to that green may be the hardest third shot on a par 5 in golf. In the U.S. Open, only a perfectly executed wedge shot hit within a few feet, difficult even for the game's best, would stay on the back of the green. Hit it a little too hard and the ball would roll down the shaved banks, leaving a difficult chip that would roll back to you if not hit hard enough or roll off the front edge and down the fairway behind the left front bunker if hit a little too hard. Even a good approach shot that came up just a little in short in the center of the green would roll back off the green and continue until it came to rest in that same position. That's exactly what happened to Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson in the final round, but both did hit good pitches to have chances at pars, but could not drop the makeable putts. No course architect would ever design a green like that today, but the real culprit in my opinion was the fact the USGA wanted the greens to roll at 13 on the Stimpmeter, which was refined by Frank Thomas back

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when he worked for the USGA. We did hear complaints from Tiger Woods about the poa greens, but not from Phil Mickelson although both might have won if they had putted better. Eventual winner Graeme McDowell didn't complain and he was the one who made the putts that counted, especially in the final round Other than the problem with the 14th green, I thought Mike Davis did a great job of setting up Pebble Beach, including making it possible for golfers to reach the green with their drives on No. 4 and to get home in two on No. 6 by moving the tees up on some days. No. 7, even at less than 100 yards for the weekend rounds, was no easy touch . There should be more short pars 3, and more variety, especially on the PGA Tour where they all seem to be 200+ yards. As I recall from my round there more than 30 years ago, Nos. 8-10 are three of the prettiest holes you can ever see, but are very difficult where even the pros sometimes find it hard to make pars. As I recall, my scores were bogey-bogey-double bogey in a round of 80. After keeping my drive to the right side of the fairway and out of the bay, I hit a lay up to 100 yards and wedged close enough to make birdie on No. 18, one of the best closing holes in golf, especially when the tees are up and golfers can take a risk and go for the green in two. While I would like to go back, I see no way that I can afford the $500 price tag for a round of golf.