Our
THIS MONTH: GOLF GEAR I SWEET STUFF I CHIPSHOTS I DESTINATIONS
9th
Year!
GOLF VACATIONS OCTOBER 2011
RETURNING TO GLORY INNISBROOK RESORT AND GOLF CLUB
FOOTBALL & FOURSOMES
AUTUMN’S TWO GREAT PASTIMES PLUS: Playing Puerto Penasco I 5 Caribbean Must Plays
99 WAYS GET AWAY TO
HALF WAY BETWEEN THE EXCITEMENT OF ATLANTA AND THE TRADITIONS OF AUGUSTA, NESTLED ALONG THE BANKS OF LAKE OCONEE, YOU WILL FIND 99 HOLES OF GOLF FROM THE GAME'S GREATEST ARCHITECTS. CHOOSE FROM JACK NICKLAUS' FAMED GREAT WATERS, JONES' BRILLIANT OCONEE COURSE, FAZIO'S AWARD-WINNING NATIONAL COURSE OR BOB CUPP'S DUAL MASTERPIECES, THE PLANTATION AND THE LANDING. NOW, REYNOLDS PLANTATION INVITES YOU TO EXPERIENCE GOLF’S ULTIMATE DESTINATION LIKE NEVER BEFORE.
. TRADITIONS GETAWAY GOLF IS A GAME OF TRADITIONS, AND REYNOLDS PLANTATION IS PROUD TO OFFER A SUPREME COLLECTION WITH UNMATCHED VARIETY.
. ULTIMATE TEST DRIVE PACKAGE
THIS SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY ALLOWS YOU TO TEST DRIVE THE GAME’S BEST EQUIPMENT ON THE BEST COURSES.
. FAMILY RETREAT
THIS REYNOLDS PLANTATION VACATION HAS SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES.
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS ON GOLF GETAWAY PACKAGES OR FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT REYNOLDS PLANTATION, VISIT WWW.REYNOLDSPLANTATION.COM/PACKAGES. FOR PACKAGE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL 877.809.3324.
& Endless Lake Activities.
World Renowned Golf, a Variety of Accommodations, Fine Dining
Lake Oconee GREENE COUNTY, GEORGIA
For more information about Lake Oconee an vacation packages, visit www.visitlakeoconee.com or call 866.341.4466
• 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
Enjoy three nights lodging and three rounds of golf at Missouri’s # 1 course and we’ll add the
fourth night free! Play Porto Cima by Jack Nicklaus - The Cove by Robert Trent Jones Sr. - The Ridge by Ken Kavanaugh
porto cima DESIGNED BY JACK NICKLAUS
Congratulations to The Club at Porto Cima - MGA’s #1 Golf Course for 2010! Have fun and feel special, with this exclusive offer to play Porto Cima, designed by Jack Nicklaus. Only Club members, and guest of The Lodge of Four Seasons, have exclusive privileges to play the #1 golf course in Missouri as voted by the members of the Missouri Golf Association. Also included in your golf vacation, the legendary signature course at The COVE, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and The RIDGE course designed by Ken Kavanaugh. These are the three courses of THE LODGE – membership and guests have privileges. This three course package turns into a fourth night of free accommodations at THE LODGE…to rest, relax and celebrate.
the ridge
the cove
DESIGNED BY KEN KAVANAUGH
DESIGNED BY ROBERT TRENT JONES SR
THE LODGE of FOUR SEASONS G O L F
R E S O R T
&
S PA
S H I K I
ON CENTRAL MISSOURI’S LAKE OF THE OZARKS
Click here to go to www.4seasonsresort.com/packages_golf.php
contents I october 2011
cover
stories
14
Teeing Up On The Peninsula de Cortez
20
Football and Foursomes
26
5 Must Plays In Caribbean Paradise
14
by Dave McKibben
Shelly Haywood, an LPGA pro, was having a hard time keeping her mind on her next shot. To her immediate left, two dolphins splashed about in the Sea of Cortez’s tranquil and deep blue waters, just a lob wedge away.
by Steve Donahue
It doesn’t matter which part of the country golfers visit during fall – the locals are crazy about golf and college football – and not necessarily in that order.
by David Wood
20
Combine jaw-dropping seascapes, warm tropical trade winds wafting across lush fairways and the elite of course architecture plying their craft on the prettiest of Nature’s handiwork and we’re talking golf to savor.
32
Resort Report: Innisbrook Resort & GC by James McAfee
If you haven’t been to Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club recently, it might be time to go back as new owners Salamander Hospitality have spent almost $30 million in an effort to return it to its past glory.
departments
26
9 ChipShots Updates From The World Of Golf & Travel
36 Sweet Stuff
by Terry Ross
FootJoy, Sunice, Tifosi Optics
38 Golf Gear
by Terry Ross
TaylorMade Introduces New Technology
on the cover: Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club outside Tampa, Florida 6
32 G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
Park Avenue n u m i s m a t i c s Yo u r S o u r c e fo r R a r e C o i n s and Precious Metals
Did you know you can put Gold & Silver into your IRA Portfolio? 8VH \RXU ,5$ SRUWIROLR WR JHW WKH SURSHU DVVHW DOORFDWLRQ E\ KDYLQJ EDODQFH DQG GLYHUVLÀFDWLRQ 7KLV VWUDWHJ\ FDQ KHOS \RX KHGJH \RXU SRUWIROLR GXULQJ WKHVH WXUEXOHQW HFRQRPLF WLPHV 'LYHUVLÀFDWLRQ KDV QHYHU EHHQ PRUH LPSRUWDQW ZKHQ LW FRPHV WR \RXU UHWLUHPHQW LQYHVWPHQWV :LWK D VHOI GLUHFWHG ,5$ \RX FDQ QRW RQO\ DFKLHYH WKLV REMHFWLYH EXW DOVR RZQ WKH KDUG DVVHW DV ZHOO IRU DGGHG VHFXULW\ If you invested $10,000 in gold bullion in 2007, your investment would have grown to $36,000 by 08/08/2011 – This would equate to a 261% percent increase. The same $10,000 investment in Standard and Poor’s (S&P Index) would have lost $1,400. That’s a 14% loss. Comparisons do not include sales charges or commissions.
_________________________________________________________________
Learn how to invest in them NOW!
CALL 888-432-7189 Dept: PMSIRA-2011
Past performance is not an indicator of future performance
Information provided herein is for educational purposes, and not intended to be investment advice nor an RIIHULQJ 0D\ ORVH YDOXH Park Avenue Numismatics has been serving Collectors and Investors since 1988
CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Dave McKibben is a former award-winning sportswriter for the Los Angeles Times who covered nearly every sport imaginable during his 20-year career, including the PGA and LPGA tours. He resides in Carlsbad, Ca., he has his own media company, specializing in sports public relations. He has a passion for golf and traveling, teeing it up in Scotland, Portugal and Hawaiian islands. He can be reached at dmckibben@roadrunner.com Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
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.
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 with Buffalo Communications in Vienna, VA. His website is 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
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.
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
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
Kansas City • 913-217-7242 Harry Noll - hmdn1954@yahoo.com
199
$
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 • O C T O B E R 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 >> ROATAN’S PRISTINE BAY RESORT’S ‘GOLF IN PARADISE’ PACKAGE ROATAN, HONDURAS – Pristine Bay Resort – located on the idyllic Caribbean island of Roatan -- announces its “Golf in Paradise” stay-and-play package highlighted by luxurious villa accommodations and rounds on the Perry and Pete Dyedesigned Black Pearl course. Offering savings of more than 30 percent (through March 31, 2012), the Golf in Paradise package starts at $775 per person (plus tax, double occupancy). It includes four rounds of championship golf on Roatan’s only course, the acclaimed Pete and Perry Dye-designed Black Pearl; five days’ / four nights’ accommodations in a well-appointed villa with private pool; and daily breakfast. Packages may be customized to include scuba diving, zip lining, deep-sea fishing and other activities. “Our Golf in Paradise offer presents an exceptionally enticing opportunity to savor the many wonders of Pristine Bay, The Black Pearl and Roatan,” says Mario Toriello, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “The
splendid trifecta of championship golf, luxury amenities and natural beauty of the Caribbean’s last ‘undiscovered’ island makes Pristine Bay an ideal escape.” Pristine Bay’s luxury five-star resort hotel is scheduled for its grand opening later this year with 30 standard guest rooms, 11 twobedroom villas, five-star restaurant “Las Pergolas,” beachfront infinity pools and palapa bar. The 25,000-square-foot Beach Club showcasing the largest infinity edge pool in Central America (18,000 square feet), two hard courts for tennis, private beach, international restaurant, pool bar and grill, croquet field, movie theatre, pro shop and fully-equipped locker rooms will make a November debut. Additional information about Pristine Bay Resort, The Black Pearl and Golf in Paradise package may be gleaned by visiting www.pristinebayresort.com or calling 713. 489.2554.
FARMLINKS GC AT PURSELL FARMS HOSTS PORK & PIGSKINS EVENT SYLACAUGA, AL – FarmLinks Golf Club at Pursell Farms www.farmlinks.org
chip shots
– featuring the world’s only agronomic research and demonstration golf course – is holding the ultimate Pork & Pigskins tailgating extravaganza on Saturday, Nov. 5, coinciding with the Southeastern Conference college football showdown between Alabama and LSU. SEC football rules in this section of the country, so FarmLinks’ inaugural event offers a unique opportunity to combine one of the biggest games on the 2011 college schedule with an outstanding barbecue, led by Scott Jones, former Southern Living executive food editor. “Pork & Pigskins is a way to bring diehard fans of SEC football and world-class barbecue together in a beautiful setting and enjoy what promises to be a great game and
Pristine Bay
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • O C T O B E R 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 >> fantastic event,” says Erle Fairly, president of FarmLinks. For $99, participants will add a little sizzle to the big game by enjoying a barbecue seminar with Jones. The event begins at 12 p.m. CST, and all participants will receive a bottle of their very own signature rub after creating it using a variety of salts, sugars, spices and heat sources. The Alabama-LSU game will be shown while a mouth-watering barbecue supper is served, along with snacks and beverages. Guests can make an entire weekend of the Pork & Pigskin event by playing golf on the state’s No.-1-ranked public course, going fishing or trying their hand at the 5stand clay shooting range at FarmLinks. Overnight accommodations are also available in FarmLinks’ luxury cottages or cabins. Space is limited for the Pork & Pigskins event. To make a reservation, or for more information, call 205.403.4653.
11, 2011, is based on a two-night minimum stay and includes: • Luxury accommodations for two • Unlimited golf for two daily • Golf cart (shared) • Breakfast buffet for2 at Legends Bistro • Custom Yardage Guide • Rates begin from $555 per night (double occupancy), a 44% savings off a la carte rates. The Champions Course at La Costa is once again a true reflection of the resort’s rich golf history and tradition. While embracing the integrity of the original Dick Wilson design, which challenged the greatest names in the game for more than 40 years, the completely renovated layout captures La Costa’s timeless appeal. The design team of Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate (2P Golf Course Design (www.2pgolfdesign.com), in association with golf course architect Jeff Brauer, added new features including strategically designed and repositioned bunkers,
“UNLIMITED GOLF PACKAGE” AT LA COSTA GOLF COURSES
refined fairway routing, expanded native grass areas, natural wetlands and subtle elevation changes that contribute to a challenging and engaging golf experience. Four holes on the Champions Course are completely new designs. While all the greens on the Champions Course were replaced, four greens on the South Course have been relocated, with the South Course routing remaining intact. Significant alterations to the contours of the fairways – which have been capped by 3,000 truckloads of sand – along with advanced drainage technology have improved water flow throughout the entire 36-hole venue, significant to maintaining world-class playing conditions year ‘round. More than 30 acres of turfgrass have been eliminated to conserve water, with the Champions Course remodel incorporating more extensive use of native grasses. The new greens are Bentgrass, featuring internal contours that create movement in the
CARLSBAD, CA. – La Costa Resort and Spa, home to one of golf’s iconic venues, has an irresistible offer for enthusiastic golfers, with an “Unlimited” package that includes unlimited golf for two, encouraging guests to play all day, every day, during the duration of their stay. Golfing guests can be among the first to enjoy La Costa’s recently completed golf course renovation project, which includes the new Champions Course (formerly the North Course) and modifications to the South Course, which together restore the legendary destination to world-class standards. The golf course project caps off a $50 million total resort renovation encompassing guest rooms, conference and public spaces, pools, spa and dining establishments. The “Unlimited Golf Package,” available for resort stays beginning November 10
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
chip shots putting surface. The fairways are 419 Bermuda, while the rough and newly established native areas include paspalum, a drought- and salt water-tolerant turf. Several new lakes have been added, as well. For more details about the “Unlimited Golf Package,” or to make a reservation, visit the La Costa Resort and Spa website at www.lacosta.com.\
PRINCEVILLE'S PRINCE GOLF COURSE TO REOPEN DEC. 14th PRINCEVILLE, KAUAI, HI – Kauai’s acclaimed Princeville Prince Golf Course, one of the top-ranked courses in Hawaii and Top 100 in the United States, has announced a reopening date of December 14 to unveil the newly renovated course. The Prince has been closed since January 29 for an extensive renovation project, including: complete reconstruction of putting greens with SeaDwarf Seashore Paspalum turf and sub-surface material to meet modern USGA specifications; remodeling of bunkers to improve drainage, playability, visibility, and strategic value; clearing of fairways, streams, and visual impediments surrounding holes that have encroached upon the design intent of the course over the years; widening of fairways and reshaping of greens; tee leveling and addition of new tees for added shot value and variety; and improvements to ensure the course will be consistently maintained in superb condition. In addition, the Prince’s spectacular 60,000-square-foot clubhouse will complete its second phase of refurbishment to coincide with the golf course reopening. The Tavern Restaurant by Roy Yamaguchi and the Prince Golf Shop, both located on the lower level of the Prince Clubhouse, will continue to remain open during the renovation. Heritage Links has been carrying out the construction and renovation work and will manage all golf and club operations when the course reopens. The award-winning firm of Robert Trent Jones II, Golf Course Architects (RTJ II) is serving as lead architect on the project under the direction of Chairman and Master Architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., who designed the Prince Course, which was completed in 1990. “Perhaps our most dramatic refinement efforts have been focused on the complete 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 >>
reconstruction of every green complex, recapturing hole locations that have been lost over time,” notes Jones. “We have gently reconfigured the contours in the green surfaces to accommodate the green speeds that will be achieved by the newly planted paspalum variety of turf grass. In addition, fairway mowing patterns have been widened dramatically to promote a more enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.” The Prince Golf Course is known equally for its challenging play, breathtaking
natural beauty, and magnificent layout that follows the natural contours of the land, encompassing 350 acres of rolling terrain, tropical jungle, gullies, streams, and waterfalls. In recent years, the Prince was consistently ranked as the number one course in Hawaii and is recognized on Golf Digest's prestigious list of "America’s 100 Greatest Courses” for 2011/2012. For more information on the Prince Course, call toll-free 1-800-826-1105, direct (808) 826-5001, or visit www.princeville.com
DRAMATIC WHISTLING ROCK CC OPENS OUTSIDE OF SEOUL
Chuncheon, South Korea – One of the most dramatic golf courses to emerge in many years, Whistling Rock Country Club, opens today (September 26) in Chuncheon, 50 minutes east of Seoul.
chip shots
The club showcases 27 holes of worldclass golf by renowned international golf architect Ted Robinson, Jr. The routing at Whistling Rock follows strategic elevation changes in mountain hillsides. Respecting the natural elements of the diverse landforms, Robinson has integrated 15 lakes into this design. These lakes are connected by numerous streams and several cascading waterfalls that not only enhance shot values, but define Whistling Rock’s striking aesthetics. A creative combination of choices and challenges, Whistling Rock is a genuine golf adventure that poses enticing risk/reward scenarios throughout each nine for players at all ability levels. “If you are playing the golf course from the back tees, it has every challenge you can possibly think of,” Robinson says. “It will test your skills. But it is also straightforward, with sets of tees for every player to have an opportunity to succeed on a golf course that is fun to play.” An upscale, private country club,
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 >> Whistling Rock has three nine-hole loops, each possessing its own distinctive traits, maintaining a strategic and artistic rhythm regardless of the order in which they are played. The loops are named Cocoon, Temple and Cloud for the three signature tea houses that grace the golf course. Each nine plays to par 36, with complementing yardages – Cocoon measuring a maximum of 3,571 yards, with Temple at 3,654 and Cloud at 3,646.
12
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
Integral to the design is Robinson’s capacity to vary the degree of challenge from hole to hole. On the Cocoon nine, the demanding, uphill third hole (474 yards, par 4) is followed by a sharp dogleg (359 yards, par 4), where the green is reachable from the tee with a bold carry across bedrock-lined water. And while the green at the par-3 eighth hole is nearly encircled by sand, the fairway on the par-4 ninth is wide open.
chip shots On the Temple nine, the par-3 8th requires maximum distance (256 yards) and accuracy, but the 9th is a 376-yard par 4 that rewards a safe, short play off the tee. The 9th features one of the most identifiable points on the golf course – a suspension bridge that connects the fairway and green, stretching across a natural bedrock canyon high above the water below. The Cloud nine revolves around a five-hole stretch called “The Glen,” a
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 >> segment that represents so much of what makes Whistling Rock special: steep rock faces, elevated tees, cascading waterfalls, lakeside greens and dense forest throughout. Whistling Rock has been developed by Donglim Resort Development Co., LTD., a subsidiary of Taekwang Group, a leading South Korean conglomerate with holdings in textiles, chemical, industry, cable television and financial services (insurance). A spectacular clubhouse, designed by Francine Houben of Macanoo Architects (Delft, The Netherlands) is the anchor of club and has been inspired by beautiful mountain scenery. The building sits at the junction between the existing mountain
ridge and the cultivated landscape of the golf course. Formally in contrast with its lush, undulating surroundings, the rectilinear clubhouse appears as a beacon from across the golf course. The building concept consists of two strong Travertine stone slabs floating above the surrounding landscape. Internal and external patios cross the stone slabs to create a diversity of outdoor spaces and art gardens. The tea houses at Whistling Rock created as sculptural objects that vary from one another and serving as visual icons within the landscape, offer players a unique moment of relaxation during the round. Each tea house takes its cue from the natural surroundings and carries the theme of each nine. Landscape architects Ken Alperstein and David Fisher of Pinnacle Design (Palm Desert, California) worked closely with Robinson, Houben and other consultants to create a customized plant palette and oversee construction details to meet
DESTINATIONS
www.golfvacationsmag.com
chip shots the project’s specific requirements. Pinnacle artfully blended the natural surroundings of the project site with the shaping of the golf course and positioning of the clubhouse. The planting of thousands of native trees, including, Japanese Red Pine, Korean Pine, native dogwood, oak and cherry, has reinvigorated the property. These species – mostly transplants from original growth on site – were grouped and placed in groves to maximize their influence on the natural appearance of the golf course. The mountainous resort area of Chuncheon sits in a basin flanked by lakes and rivers. The town and its environs, a popular vacation and festival destination, is surrounded by Lake Uiam to the west, Chuncheon Lake to the north and, further east, massive Soyang Lake. Membership to the country club is by invitation only. For additional information, visit the Web site at www.whistlingrockresort.com
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO PLAY
G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
13
Teeing Up On The Peninsula de Cortez by Dave McKibben
e sco • M o Pena Puert xico
I
t was a scene that even Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II couldn’t have envisioned when they designed Peninsula de Cortez Golf Club in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. Standing on the 14th tee on a late September day, Shelly Haywood, an LPGA pro, was having a hard time keeping her mind on her next shot. To her immediate left, two dolphins splashed about in the Sea of Cortez’s tranquil and deep blue waters, just a lob wedge away. “That is pretty cool,” Haywood said. “I can’t believe how close they are. They must be swimming in only a foot or two of water.” As Haywood contemplated the daunting task ahead of her, carving a 6-iron 160 yards into a small green surrounded by bunkers, she glanced back at the balmy sea and the spectacle taking place just offshore. “I don’t want to play golf,” she said. “I just want to watch the dolphins.” Somehow Haywood and her playing partner, Michael Haywood, president of the Southwest Section of the PGA, were able to focus their attention back to the 7100-yard, par 72 layout, one of only a handful of links courses in Mexico. Links style
www.golfvacationsmag.com
courses, which originated in Scotland, are known for their uneven fairways and greens, sandy soil, deep bunkers and thick rough. “It’s a true links course,” said Shelly Haywood, the former women’s coach at the University of Arizona. “There’s not a flat lie to be found.” Puerto Penasco’s hot and dry climate won’t conjure up memories of Scotland, known for having all four seasons packed into one day. But in its layout and topography, Peninsula de Cortez has the look of a Scottish course, in particular, the 15th at North Berwick in Scotland—known as the historic Redan hole. Arguably a golf architect’s favorite type of hole, a Redan is similar to a fortress, sheltered on three sides. “The entire course looks like a Redan; It’s protected by a tidal estuary on its inside, the inlet to the south and the Sea of Cortez to its more exposed outside,” Jack Nicklaus II said. “This adds to the uniqueness, the beauty and the challenge of The Peninsula.” It’s not unusual for a hot and sweaty single-digit handicapper to trudge into the clubhouse at Peninsula de Cortez begging for
G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
15
16
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
a cold Pacifico and a shoulder to cry on after barely breaking three digits. But the four sets of tee boxes, welcoming fairways and receptive greens offer every level of golfer a chance to make par on even the most treacherous holes. “Most Nicklaus designed courses are known for their difficulty level,” said Michael Haywood, director of golf at the Tucson Country Club. “But this is one of the playable Nicklaus courses I’ve seen. The fairways are very forgiving and the undulations in the greens aren’t quite as dramatic.” The signature hole is the sixth, a par 3, 190-yard beast that almost always plays into a stiff breeze. The green is surrounded by four bunkers and a pond. In six shots, no one in our group landed a ball on the putting surface. The sixth might be the toughest hole, but the 412-yard, but the par four third hole is the most visually intimidating. From the tee, all that can be seen is a mound in the middle of a narrow fairway. The golfer is faced with a second shot to a narrow green with brush on both sides and the sea in the distance. Arizona tourist Cory Norton spent the week staying at the Mayan Palace resort, which sits a few hundred yards south of www.golfvacationsmag.com
the course. An avid golfer who has played St. Andrews and Carnoustie in Scotland and all over Hawaii and Arizona, Norton wasn’t expecting much from Peninsula de Cortez. “To be honest, I was expecting a course that wasn’t all that kept up,” said Norton, 38, who belongs to a private club in Gilbert, Ariz. “But between the unique layout, the finely manicured greens and fairways, it’s one of the best I’ve ever played. “I’d give the course an A and the driving range and practice facility an A minus. If you were to play this course in Hawaii, you’d pay $225. In Arizona, it would cost $120 and it would be one of the top courses in the state.” The Peninsula is consistently ranked among the top 20 resort courses in Mexico, but you wouldn’t know it by the green fees. On any day of the week, you can play for under $100 and it won’t take five hours to navigate all 18 holes. It can be quite easy to lose balls in the desert or even on the endless beach, but most rounds are completed in less than four hours. In Cabo, a course such as The Peninsula, might run close to $300. G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
17
“There’s not a golf course in Cabo that’s as good as this one,” said Andrew Gilchrist Anderson, director of golf at the Mayan Palace. “When you come here, it’s a great chance to play one of the top courses in the country without having to pay top 10 prices.” There is more good news for visitors from Arizona. While Arizona’s courses overseed during the fall— sometimes for up to two months-there is no down time at Peninsula de Cortez. “We want people in Arizona to consider us the overseeding getaway,” Anderson said. The five-year-old Peninsula course is operated by Grupo Vidanta, the largest time share and golf course developer in Mexico. Vidanta’s other courses are located on the Riviera Maya, Acapulco, Nuevo Vallarta and Los Cabos. While the course is semi-private, the resort is offering special golf packages at a one-time only rate. Golfers can pay for three rounds and get two nights of lodging and food included in the deal. From Tucson and Phoenix, the Mayan resort is less than four hours away. A Mexican coastal highway that opened southwest of Yuma last year has reduced the drive from San Diego and Palm Springs to less than six hours. A new airport, also owned by Grupo Vidanta, is open, but so far there are no commercial flights into Puerto Penasco.
For more information on the course and the resort go to www.VidantaGolf.com or call 1-866-321-5480.
18
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
19
FOOT
By Steve Donahue
I
t doesn’t matter which part of the country golfers visit during fall – the locals are crazy about golf and college football – and not necessarily in that order.
That means diehard football fans might want to pack their sticks when either following their teams around the country or just enjoying a golf vacation in football country. After all, fall not only means perfect weather in most parts of the nation where bigtime football rules, it also means the climate is also superb for golf, the courses are less crowded than in peak season (especially on Saturday afternoons) and green fees are lower than during peak season. As proof, here are some sweet golf deals 20
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
available in some of America’s hottest pigskin outposts: SOUTHEAST FarmLinks Golf Club at Pursell Farms, Sylacauga, Ala. www.farmlinks.org/ Once college-football season rolls around, Alabamans focus on the state’s two Southeast Conference behemoths – the University of Alabama and Auburn University. While SEC football is clearly king in this neck of the woods, FarmLinks Golf Club at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga is offering folks a chance to mix golf and gridiron with
its Pork & Pigskins “tailgating” event on Saturday, Nov. 5—Alabama vs. LSU game day – beginning at 12 noon. For $99, participants (call 205.403.4653) will enjoy a barbecue seminar with Scott Jones (barbecue enthusiast and former Southern Living executive food editor), a bottle of signature rub to keep, snacks and beverages during the Alabama-LSU game and a delicious barbecue supper. Guests can even inquire about adding lodging, golf on the state’s No. 1-ranked public course (according to Golfweek), fishing and 5-stand clay shooting to their FarmLinks visit. www.golfvacationsmag.com
AND FOURSOMES TBALL Autumn’s a Winner When Great Golf Deals and Gridiron Favorites Meet
Golf Gulf Shores, Ala. www.golf.gulfshores.com/stay/allrates.aspx Some 260 miles southwest of Sylacauga, golfers and college grid fans in Gulf Shores, Ala., have a variety of opportunities to stay and play through both football and basketball seasons thanks to the local tourism bureau’s recent sponsorship of the SEC. Prime fall golf conditions, affordable stayand-play rates starting at $73 per person per night with golf and award-winning courses continue to draw fans each year through early December.
www.golfvacationsmag.com
Golf Gulf Shores www.golf.gulfshores.com – which offers nine golf courses (including Kiva Dunes, rated Alabama’s second-best public layout by Golfweek), countless lodging options, and a wealth of fishing and outdoor activities on the 32-mile-long destination’s waterfront – is also entering each group booking a golf getaway in a drawing to have their golf package’s value rebated, up to $4,000. Stays must be before Nov. 7 to be eligible. See www.golf.gulfshores.com/plan/quotes/ for the “Win Your Golf Trip for Free” promotion entry/details.
Dancing Rabbit Golf Club, Philadelphia, Miss. www.dancingrabbitgolf.com Dancing Rabbit Golf Club in Philadelphia, Miss. – where SEC allegiances are divided between the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State – is offering a “SEC Tee Time Special” $50 green fee for football fans the three days prior to, the day of and the day after the LSU-Tennessee (Oct. 15), LSU-Alabama (Nov. 5), AlabamaMississippi State (No. 12) and LSU-Ole Miss (Nov. 19) games. The $50 green fee includes 18 holes of golf on the Azaleas (the state’s No. 2 public course as ranked by GOLF and Golfweek) G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
21
Dancing Rabbit Golf Club
or Oaks (GOLF’s fourth-best public layout in Mississippi) course, shared cart and pre-round range balls. Accommodations are available for all fans at Pearl River Resort www.pearlriverresort.com (Silver Star Casino & Hotel and Golden Moon Casino & Hotel), Dancing Rabbit Clubhouse, Dancing Rabbit Fairway House and Hilton Garden Inn/Choctaw, located in the Dancing Rabbit parking lot. The only way to book the “SEC Tee Time Special” is by contacting Mark Powell in advance (tee times are subject to availability) at 601.663.0011 or mpowell@pearlriverresort.com.
Branson, Missouri 22
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
MIDWEST Branson, Missouri www.golfbranson.com University of Missouri and University of Arkansas (which is actually 90 minutes closer to Branson, Mo., than is Mizzou) football fans can expect blue skies, low humidity, temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and great golf specials this fall in the Ozark Mountains oasis that is Branson.
package price for a group of eight staying three nights and playing three rounds can drop as low as $50 per golfer per night (and one round per day).
For example, golfers putting two foursomes together for Thousand Hills Golf Resort’s new, unique “League Partner Package” stay-and-play special will save nearly 50%.
There are eight exceptional courses to play in the region, including Branson Creek (Missouri’s No. 1 public course, according to GOLF Magazine and Golfweek), Murder Rock, Payne Stewart Golf Club (Golfweek’s third-ranked public layout in the state) and Ledgestone.
This customized, progressive discount package – good through April 20, 2012 (excluding Thanksgiving weekend) – is based on a minimum of eight people for one night (more players are welcome) in their choice of 2-bedroom condos or Queen Suites. The
The resort will even book other Branson courses in conjunction with this package and staying/playing at Thousand Hills. Contact Thousand Hills Golf Resort at 800.487.0769 or 417.334.4553.
Longaberger Golf Club, Nashport, Ohio www.longabergergolfclub.com Central Ohio’s ideal fall weather – sunny temperatures in the 60s – and brilliant foliage give Midwest golfers looking for great fall getaways and tee times around www.golfvacationsmag.com
popular Ohio State football games the opportunity to play two rounds of golf at Longaberger Golf Club, Ohio’s No. 1ranked public course by GOLF and Golfweek (and No. 56 in Golf Digest’s current “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” ranking) starting at $163 with an overnight stay in October. The Columbus-area layout, managed by Billy Casper Golf, has two fall packages, both available Oct. 3-30. The “Longaberger Fall Stay-and-Play” features two rounds of golf at Longaberger and an overnight stay, starting at $163 midweek, and $190 on weekends – a savings of $30 over high-season rates. The “Nine Stars of Golf Package” includes a round at Longaberger and a round at nearby EagleSticks, with overnight stay, starting at $137 midweek or $157 on weekends. Sweetgrass Golf Club at Island Resort & Casino, Harris, Michigan www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com Sweetgrass Golf Club at Island Resort & Casino in Harris, Mich., surprisingly isn’t in University of Michigan or Michigan State University territory. It’s more than a six-hour drive to both schools from this
Paul AlbaneseSweetgrass Golf Club designed course located on Michigan’s remote Upper Peninsula, but only a two-hour drive south to Green Bay, Wis., home of the defending Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers. Not surprisingly, Wisconsinites flock to Sweetgrass – ranked Michigan’s 13th-best public layout by PACIFIC NORTHWEST GOLF – in droves. Salish Cliffs Golf Club at Little Creek Casino Resort, Shelton, Washington Despite cool temperatures, Sweetgrass www.salish-cliffs.com remains open until late fall. In the meanThe Seattle area lays claim to the University time, daily fee rates start at $75 and stayof Washington, which means expect a lot of and-play package rates at $95 per person Huskies fans to tee it up at brand-new per night, highlighted by the popular Salish Cliffs Golf Club at Little Creek Perfect 4-Some package’s value-driven Casino Resort in Shelton, Wash., about 75 $265 rate, which includes rounds at minutes south of Seattle. Sweetgrass, nearby Greywalls and TimberStone, and a two-night stay at the Golf superstar Fred Couples, a Seattle Island Resort & Casino. native, made an all-day appearance at Salish Cliffs’ Grand Opening Weekend, Sept. 16To make a tee time at Sweetgrass Golf Club 18, and loved renowned architect Gene or to book the Perfect 4-Some package with Bates’ design, which has a surefire top-100 stays at the Island Resort & Casino, visit ranking in its future. their website or call 877-ISL-GREEN.
Longaberger Golf Club
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
23
Farm Hills Golf Club
24
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
Salish Cliffs Golf Club •
Salish Cliffs will offer stay-and-play packages in 2012. For now, public rates through September are $89 for 18 holes and $50 for nine, including green fees and cart. MVP Player’s Card Holders pay $84. The newestmodel Titleist rental clubs are available for $50 (18 holes) and $30 (nine holes). Advanced tee-time booking up to 60 days in advance is available for those with confirmed Little Creek Casino Resort hotel reservations by calling the golf shop at 360.462.3673.
NORTHEAST Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania www.800poconos.com Pennsylvania’s four-county Pocono Mountains region, within easy driving distance from New York City, is primarily Penn State/Big Ten territory, although it’s also close enough that there’s some allegiance to Temple, Rutgers and Syracuse. Golfers have more than 35 courses of different price points and styles from which to choose in the Poconos, which offers brilliant foliage and crisp, cool fall
photo by Brian Oar
days. Among the many value-laden deals at Pocono Mountains golf courses is the “Golf Package” offered by The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, which is celebrating its centennial this year. The package, valid through Nov. 20, includes overnight accommodations, breakfast, cart and green fees on the 18-hole championship island course that hosted the 1938 PGA Championship, seven days a week. Midweek rates start at $108 per person, per night, and include tax and service charge. Visit shawneeinn.com to book.
Shawnee Inn
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F VA C AT I O N S •
OCTOBER
2011
25
Caribbean E
5
Must Plays in
Escape
n Paradise
By DavidWOOD
CARIBBEAN
T
here is a glorious aspect to seaside golf. The Caribbean islands have it in spades. Combine jaw-dropping seascapes viewed from putting greens, warm tropical trade winds wafting across lush fairways and the elite of course architecture plying their craft on the prettiest of Nature’s handiwork and we’re talking golf to savor. Here are five “must plays” in the Caribbean: 1. The Black Pearl – Pristine Bay Resort – Roatan, Honduras The Black Pearl is laid out on one of the best canvases we’ve worked with,” says legendary course architect Pete Dye. Located 35 miles off the Honduran coast, Roatan is resplendent with unblemished, sugar sand beaches coexisting in harmony with azure Caribbean waters so shockingly
blue it almost hurts to gaze too long. Like its pirate ship influenced moniker, it’s all sinisterly enticing. The par-72, 7,179-yard layout is Dye’s first project in Honduras. The course starts at the ocean’s doorstep and rises into the island’s rolling foothills before taking golfers on a wild and woolly ride back to the seaside clubhouse. It features one of Dye’s signature island greens, and 14 holes with unfettered views of the ocean and MesoAmerican Barrier Reef. This is championship golf in paradise. www.pristinebayresort.com 2. Cinnamon Hill – Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa – Montego Bay, Jamaica Cinnamon Hill is like a Whitman’s Sampler of Jamaica’s awesome beauty combining fragrant foliage, verdant mountains and tranquil Montego Bay vistas. Its 15th green is serenaded by the smoothing cascade of an idyllic waterfall that was the site of a dramatic scene from the James Bond flick “Live and Let Die.” Like 007, you’re in for thrill after thrill as this course peaks at 350-feet above sea-level and crescendos with holes so close to the ocean you think you’ll need fins with soft spikes. The Black Pearl
28
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
CARIBBEAN Cinnamon Hill
Designed by Robert Von Hagge, painstaking care was taken to ensure the history and rich flora and fauna of Rose Hall Estate -- a former sugar plantation built in 1790 by a wealthy British planter – was untarnished for the 18. This splendid course plays to 6828 yards against a par of 72. It’s all the golf (and scenery) you’ll ever need. www.rosehallresort.com
golfers for 40 years. The trade winds up the ante (and hopes of a good score) even more. As Dye says modestly, "Seven holes were created by God.” The other 11 were from another design genius. Playing Teeth of the Dog is a must. www.casadecampo.com.do 4. La Cana Golf Course – Puntacana Resort and Club – Higuey, Dominican Republic Golf courses don’t come much closer to the sea than La Cana Golf Course. Designed by P. B. Dye, La Cana features 14 ocean-view holes with four playing right on the water’s edge. It’s not often one’s given a choice to either hit your next shot or snorkel – that’s how close the agua is. And like most of the magnificent Caribbean – the water is as blue as it gets. The course is flat-out superb. With emerald green fairways juxtaposed against white sand bunkers; the Dye family’s love of ubiquitous railroad ties; and creative green
Teeth Of The Dog
3. Teeth of the Dog – Casa de Campo Resort – La Romana, Dominican Republic Like Pablo Picasso must have done, Pete Dye seems to knock out masterpiece designs with ease. "The opportunity to carve out Teeth of the Dog was a oncein-a-lifetime experience," Dye says in his book “Bury Me In a Pot Bunker.” "Without proper heavy machinery to crack the coral, the tireless Dominican crew used sledgehammers, pickaxes and chisels." The result is a Caribbean golf Eden. With devilish doglegs and Dye’s clever slight-of-hand causing havoc this course has captivated
www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • O C T O B E R 2011
29
CARIBBEAN complexes that are as beguiling to putt as they are smooth; the layout has an innovative aura proving the Dyes’ sure what to do when given great land to ply their dynastic skills. La Cana is 7,178 yards of pure golf. www.puntacana.com
La Cana Golf Course
5. Tierra del Sol Resort & Country Club – Malmok Beach, Aruba Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, Tierra del Sol Resort & Country Club sits regally on the northwest side of Aruba. Open for visitors play, this Lesser Antilles gem has the unlikely, but thought-provoking, characteristic of being a "desert course with ocean views.” The target-style design and constant trade winds provide a unique challenge that calls for repeated play to master its numerous subtleties. The 6,811-yard layout serpentines amid marshes and
native cactus with ocean views from 13 of 18 holes. There are many reasons to visit intriguing Aruba with its laidback ways and sunny climate, and now, golf is chief among them. www.tierradelsol.com
Tierra del Sol Resort & Country Club
30
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
RESORTREPORT
TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA
By James McAFEE
Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club 72 Holes Of Perfect Play f you haven’t been to Innisbrook
20,000 square-foot Indaba Spa with
Resort and Golf Club, located north
12 treatment rooms. Three meetings
of Tampa, recently, it might be time
areas with 65,000 square-foot of
I to
go
back
as
new
owners
Salamander Hospitality have spent
space are great for conventions like the one I attended.
almost $30 million in an effort to return The 609 guest accommodations
it to its past glory.
range from deluxe rooms to one and The fruits of the work were evi-
two bedroom and executive suites in
dent on a recent visit to attend the
28 lodges, named after other famous
International
Golf
golf courses, spread out to provide
spring conference. The resort now
tranquil settings. More renovations are
has
Osprey
planned for the accommodations, too.
Clubhouse, serving as the guest
Missing are elevators, making the bell-
registration center with a pro shop
men’s tasks a little harder.
an
Network expanded
of
for the North and South Courses plus a sports bar and restaurant.
If you do not arrive in a car, don’t worry. Innisbrook has a very efficient
There are three other specialty
shuttle service that was Johnny-on-the-
restaurants, including the Packard
spot every time I called since my room
Steakhouse at the Copperhead club-
was a long ways from the meetings
house. There is a separate clubhouse
and the two courses I played.
for the Island Course, too. Other amenities include six swimming
The main attraction remains golf
pools, a fitness facility, a tennis cen-
with 72 holes, featuring rolling terrain
ter with 11 courts and a new
different from other Florida courses.
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • O C T O B E R 2011
33
RESORTREPORT The Copperhead Course, where the PGA Tour players
7,310 with a rating of -76.4 and slope of 143. The
play in March at the Transitions Championship is the fea-
greens were all rebuilt and lowered and replaced with
tured course. It’s long even for the pros at 7,340 yards,
TifEagle grass, just like Copperhead, but approach shots
but it’s also a thinking man’s course with rolling terrain
definitely need to be kept under the holes for the most part
and tall pines framing the fairways that are more like
on the undulating putting surfaces.
North Carolina than Florida. Playing it at 6,816 yards with 73.9 and 141 numbers, Most golfers shouldn’t even attempt to go back to the
I found it difficult to get home on many of the longer par
tips, sporting a 76.8 course rating and a slope of 144.
4s. My advice is to move up to the whites at 6,280 with
The green tees at 6,725 yards with 73.7 and 136 num-
70.9 and 135 numbers if you don’t drive the ball more
bers are enough for the lower handicappers, but I would
than 250 yards. It’s too long for most women at 5,515
enjoy it more from the whites at 6,180 and 130. It’s still
with 77.1 and 144 numbers.
a little too long for women at 5,605 from the reds with 73.6 and 130 numbers.
While I did not get to play the other two courses, opened in 1971 as the Sandpiper, it seems obvious they
The Island Course, the first to be built back in 1970,
are more player friendly based on the lengths, course rat-
may be more difficult with tighter fairways bordered by
ings and slopes. Who doesn’t like making more pars and
moss-draped trees and plenty of water hazards, especial-
a birdie every once in a while? With water hazards, both
ly after a $2 million facelift that stretched it 350 yards to
can be challenging.
34
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
www.golfvacationsmag.com
TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA The North, which also under went some renovations to add length, will remind you of the Copperhead— nine
holes
were
part
of
Copperhead’s 27 holes—and so it has some of the same characteristics, but shorter. There’s one stretch of six straight holes with water. It plays to par 70, measuring 6,325, 6,070, 5,580 and 4,955 from the four tees. The South starts out and ends like the others, but there is a stretch in the middle (5-13) where it opens up and is largely devoid of trees. Higher handicappers will enjoy it more as it plays to par 71, measuring 6,620, 6,340, 5,900 and 4,975 from the four tees. As an extra attraction during the summer when more families come calling, the resort sets up the Fox Squirrel walking course after 4 p.m. It measures only 1,236 yards on holes 1-4 and 1418 of the South or the back nine on the North when the South is closed. Larry Packard, 98, designed all the four courses, and still lives at Innisbrook. His trademark double doglegs are evident at Innisbrook just as they were elsewhere. While some more work, especially on the greens, is needed, Innisbrook does appear to be making an effort to move up a notch or two among America’s premier golf resorts. www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • O C T O B E R 2011
35
SWEETSTUFF T
he burgeoning golf clothing industry is going to get even more competitive as FootJoy, which has held a dominate position in the sales of golf shoes and gloves for many years, is getting ready to make a full assault on the full-line apparel market with the introduction of a complete range of men’s golf apparel comprised of performance fabrics to complement its existing line of advanced outerwear that has also been a leader in the market. The new line will begin with a core range of essential performance offerings that will be in-stock from season to season. This assortment will be supplemented by multiple color story collections for the fall and spring that feature contemporary colors and patterns in a variety of styles and performance fabrics. The design focus will be on one sport – golf, which is FootJoy’s sole passion. “We’re excited about the opportunity to move into an adjacent business and believe the timing is right,” said Jim Connor, President of FootJoy. “We’ve talked to golfers and our trade partners, who enthusiastically support the plans and offerings. This represents an important step forward in FootJoy’s mission to enhance enjoyment of the game for golfers everywhere.” FootJoy first entered the golf outerwear category in 1997 and last year introduced the layering system that was developed to meet the specific needs of golfers who demand comfortable performance apparel that regulates body temperature and adapts to changing weather conditions. Comprised of garments designed for wet, windy, cold and warm conditions, the system allows players to “Layer Up”, consistent with FootJoy’s mantra: Make Every Day Playable. A variety of fabrics and colors highlight FooJoy’s new foray into a full line of attire that is designed for comfort and protection on the course and for style off the course as well. For the cooler fall conditions, the FJ Performance Sweater is a stylish pullover made of luxurious Merino wool over a waterproof liner that makes this garment almost impervious from wind and cold, in addition to being water resistant. Designed for easy on/off, this golf sweater allows easy range of motion during the golf swing and sports a nice full cut in nine available colors.
36
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
For a little warmer conditions, or as an option under the Performance Sweater, the ProDry Shirt features an easy care fabric that avoids wrinkling and shrinkage along with double stitched seams for added durability and reinforced construction with its lockstitched hem. The ProDry stretch fabric has a luxurious and cool feel, while the anti-microbial finish inhibits odor buildup when ambient moisture is present. The extra long back and full fit in this line are typical of the popular FootJoy styling. Going back to its roots, FootJoy is also celebrating the 30-year anniversary of the its StaSof golf glove line with a new and improved version of what has been the company’s flagship product since 1981 and is ranked as the industry leader in that category. Just as the golf swing has evolved into an athletic power move in which the hands lead the club shaft into an aggressive, downward, ball-compressing moment of impact, the new StaSof has evolved to complement that swing by improved feel and grip performance. Launching the ninth generation of exclusive Pittards® Leather Technology with Taction 2™ Advanced Performance Leather®, the new StaSof has a softer feel and improved grip performance in allclimate play. Moreover, the new Taction2 ™ APL leather has twice the gripping power in humid, hot conditions. The leather cuff of the new StaSof has been extended 1/4" to fit further up the wrist for improved fit and comfort. In addition, a new, proprietary ComforTab™ closure comfortably adjusts for a secure fit and feel. PowerNet™ mesh inserts have been added across the knuckles to enhance flexibility and breathability. For more information: www.footjoy.com
W
ith the weather beginning to turn colder as the fall season takes over from the summer heat, golf is still on in most parts of the country, but with an eye towards comfort as the elements start to take their toll. Protection from the weather becomes paramount with rain, wind and cold playing into the equation as much as birdies and bogeys. Sunice®, the Canadian company that is the official outerwear of the PGA Tour, has added some new colors and styles for its fashion/ technical outerwear line that will not disappoint for the upcoming fall and winter season of 2112. An updated Ultimate V4 Gore-Tex rain and wind jacket in its Hurricane Collection represents the crème de la crème with a lifetime waterproof guarantee in Gore-Tex Performance Shell. Ultra quiet with a soft-hand feel and the Pro-trim™ waist cinching system, this jacket also sports a full top back stretch panel for
www.golfvacationsmag.com
SWEETSTUFF freedom of movement, Lycra action cuffs, adjustable bungee at the hem and a patented V collar with neoprene finish. Another nice touch is the in-pocket ball cleaner and the Sunice® lock-down zipper pullers. The X-Static lining also provides the technical benefits of actual silver fibers woven within the lining. A completely new design is on tap for this line for 2012 with an array of new colors, including the brightly colored blue regatta with charcoal and white detailing, classic black and shadow and real red and black. A bright olive and charcoal color combination is also a very important new addition to the Sunice men’s outerwear line-up. These are jackets that are offered in both a both men’s and women’s line, and Sunice® has taken some cues from the women to design the official outerwear of the United States Solheim Cup Team that recently competed in Ireland. A few other notable mentions from their newest collection include a completely new fabric story for the Typhoon, three-year waterproof guarantee category. Zephal was introduced in 2011 as a super lightweight waterproof fabric but has been upgraded for 2012 with the addition of full stretch. Embossed prints for men add an additional fashion statement along with vibrant colors for women with Bright White, French Blue, Petonia and Diva. Fun prints, color combinations, printed waterproof zippers and finishing details that act as jewellery to the garment add the sophisticated edge and femininity to the women’s collection. Sunice®, founded in 1976 in Alberta, Canada as a skiwear brand, successfully transcended its technical outerwear capabilities into the golf market in the early 1990s as the golf industry gravitated towards designing sport-specific garments that truly helped enhance the game. Owned and run by Montreal, Canada-based Fletcher Leisure Group Inc., a company with 42 years of golf indus-
www.golfvacationsmag.com
try experience-- Sunice® golf rainwear is worn by many PGA and LPGA Tour players around the world. For more information on the new outerwear offerings from Sunice®: www.sunice.com
O
ne of the fastest-growing brands of sunglasses across many sports has made recent in-roads into the golf accessory category with some spirited new models and eye-catching fashion statements. Tifosi Optics, which now offers dozens of sport sunglasses in 38 countries and more than 3,000 U.S. locations in less than a decade in business, has loaded its current lineup of eyewear with not only protection, but a sense of fashion as well. “We set out to engineer top quality sports sunglasses that are loaded with technical features, aggressively priced and backed with a no-hassle lifetime warranty,” says co-founder Elizabeth Earley. “But the real success is due to our growing network of Tifosi retailers who believe in the brand enough to recommend it to their customers.” One of its latest models—Mast—features three Interchangeable lenses made of decentered shatterproof polycarbonate to virtually eliminate distortion, give sharp peripheral vision, and offer 100% protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays, bugs, rocks, or whatever comes your way. Lens installation/removal is fast and easy and allows for three different shade lenses in one sunglass. These Polarized lenses block light reflecting off the water (or any horizontal surface) to reduce glare and eye fatigue. The Golf/Tennis™ (GT) lens is color neutral, great for full sun, and high-contrast so you can quickly spot your ball in flight. The Extreme Contrast™ (EC) lens filters blue light and was designed
specifically as a green-reader. Its unique properties help you pick up subtle breaks on the green as you plan your next putt. AC Red™ is a great contrast lens for overcast conditions. The frame is made of Grilamid TR-90, a homopolyamide nylon characterized by an extremely high alternative bending strength, low density, and high resistance to chemical and UV damage. The Hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pieces are designed to increase grip when in contact with sweat for a no-slip fit, while the adjustable temples allow for a customizable fit and increased wearing comfort. For more information visit www.tifosioptics.com by Terry Ross
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • O C T O B E R 2011
37
GOLFGEAR W
hen TaylorMade Golf introduced its unique whiteheaded driver franchise earlier this year with the adjustable R11, the company probably never imagined that within the first eight months that it would be celebrating its one millionth sale. That milestone has come and gone and coat-tailing on the heels of this wildly successful club are the white R11 Fairway Woods and Rescue Hybrids that have proven popular both in the professional and recreational ranks as a companion to the driver. The contrast between the white crown and black clubface makes it easier to align the R11 accurately at address, just as it does in the driver, and the matte white finish eliminates hot spots and glare to promote improved focus. The white head also looks larger to promote more confidence and a faster, free swing with a lighter feel. The R11 f a i r w a y improves upon the adjustability established in the R9 version by combining Flight Control Technology (FCT) with Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) Technology in a high-performance steel head. With up to 60 yards of side-to-side trajectory change, a new aerodynamic clubhead also allows for greater swing speed. One significant improvement over the previous R9 fairway wood is the 35% smaller sole area of the R11 that is designed to make contact with the turf, which helps eliminate resistance at
38
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1
impact and allows greater energy and longer shots. A deeper face and a front Center of Gravity provides a more penetrating ball flight and longer distance, while the Adjustable Sole Plate allows you to open or close the face angle at setup by either two degrees open or closed. The FCT allows you to adjust the launch angle by increasing or decreasing the R11’s loft by one degree higher or lower with eight different adjustments. It also allows you to adjust the club’s lie angle from standard to up to two degrees upright to customize it even further. The R11 fairways come in five different lofts ranging from 14 to 22 degrees and feature a Fujikura Blur shaft as stock, while the Tour Preferred version of the club has several shaft options, including the new Aldila ® Rip ® shaft that has proven popular on the professional tours. The Rescue 11 incorporates steel, pull-face construction to allow for a thin, fast clubface that promotes fast ball speed and minimum weight. The Flight Control Technology (FCT) allows you to adjust the loft and it also has the white crown and black clubface. Available lofts range from 16 to 23.5 degrees. This hybrid does not have the adjustable sole, but with the FCT adjustment the face angle can be altered by 4 degrees (+/2 degrees left and right); and you can adjust the loft by 2 degrees (+/- 1 degree higher or lower); adjust the lie 2 degrees (+/- 1 degree more upright or flat). Thus you are able to alter the spin rate by 1,000 RPM (+/- 500 RPM higher or lower spin rate). The Aldila ® Rip ® 65 HB shaft comes standard on the R11 Rescue, while the TP version offers various custom options. For more information: www.taylormadegolf.com by TERRY ROSS www.golfvacationsmag.com
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.