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GOLF O K A N A G A N
THE BEST GOLF-COURSES IN THE OKANAGAN VALLEY
Okanagan Paradise Golf Tour: your guide to the best courses
Gizmos On The Green: the hottest golf gear and more ...
WIN!!!
rounds of golf at some of the best courses in the Valley
Spring 2011
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GOLF Okanagan
Okanagan Paradise Golf Tour
by Guy Scott
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hinking of visiting the sunny Okanagan Valley to play some golf? You could not visit a better place on the planet ! Really ! Really !! The 140 km long valley boasts a variety of golf courses to fit every skill level and budget.
From award winning world famous golf resorts, to 9 hole gems, to an all grass putting course. There is something for everyone. Read on, take the tour, welcome one and all ! Entering the Valley from the north side you will enter the Vernon Area.
the breathtaking vistas of Lake Okanagan, the orchards and wine country.
The Rise (1) - A must play is the new signature world class championship layout designed by PGA tour star Freddy Couples. This ultra modern undulating course is a “mind blower� majestic panorama lake, vineyard, and valley views at every turn. One could not say enough about the views you will experience. Oops, I think we have already ! This course is well suited to golfers with some experience in playing 18 hole courses. Great rates and a super spot to have a beverage after to go over the memorable moments while taking in
Vernon Golf and Country Club (2) is a classic vintage course, established in 1913. This lovely course has matured like a fine wine. Towering Lombardy Poplars and majestic weeping willows draw attention to this well manicured semi private course.
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Situated between downtown Vernon and Kalamalka Lake. Magnificent hillside views blend well with the creek meandering through the course. Semi Private Spring 2011
GOLF Okanagan Predator Ridge Golf Resort (3) Heading south, one cannot miss this famous Resort. Hidden in the rolling hillside 15 minutes from Vernon and 35 minutes from Kelowna. Home to the “TV Skins Game” featuring PGA Tour superstars. Some of the worlds most highly ranked international players have made history at this resort. From Greg Norman, to our much loved Masters Champion Canadian Mike Wier, to the ever popular flamboyant Spaniards Camilo Villegas and Sergio Garcia. Rumor has it Sergio owns at Predator. A top shelf resort complex with, spa, restaurant, condo and townhome rental accommodations as well as a golf academy. Predator Rise has 36 holes. The Ridge and Predator courses are tough and will test you to the maximum, multi tiered greens with a few water holes, you will love what you see! Take the challenge.
pine forested fairways open to a “links area” of the courses much like historical Scotland the home of golf. A must visit if you come to Kelowna.
Now we are headed for the major center of the Okanagan…… “Kelowna” of course. A golfers dream Mecca ! Tons of great courses. Lets start from the north. Quail Ridge Golf Resort (4) - Featuring 36 holes, the famous Quail and Bear Courses, are tucked into rolling hills, this resort blends perfectly with mother nature. Scenic majestic Okanagan Valley, Els Lake and forest views. Enjoy impeccably well maintained courses. Designed by famous names like the Jack Nicklaus Group and Canadian award winning designer Les Furber. The courses are a perfect match equally different and beautiful. Loved by both tourists and locals. Public and private members enjoy the luxury of an easy going golf resort right in the city! A spa, Sarazen’s Restaurant, and Sports Lounge as well as Banquet facilities complete the resort experience. The Quail Course is a favourite with the better players while the Bear is great for all levels. Beautiful ponderosa Spring 2011
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GOLF Okanagan This resort and northern area are centrally located to many of the Kelowna’s courses. Tower Ranch (5). Ah, this new award winning breathtaking layout is a must visit even to just see the views at the clubhouse. Graciously nested into the East side of the valley this course offers eye popping scenery with panorama views of Lake Okanagan, the entire city of Kelowna, Orchards, vineyards and rolling hills. Every hole on this course is a scenic spot where one would want to stop and soak up the vista. Voted #1 in North America and top 10 in the world for “Best New Course” by Travel and Leisure Magazine, Golf Digest, Top 3 “Best New Canadian Courses” of 2009 the list goes on and on. On the valley floor are 2 more. Shadow Ridge (6), a full length 18 hole course known for its pretty bridges. A meandering creek and 4 large ponds offer water and pleasant views on many of the holes. Beautiful mature “Weeping Willows” line the fairways creating a place to get some shade on the warm summer days. Very easy to walk, popular with golfers who want a little exercise. Good value and is appealing to all levels. Kelowna Springs (7) next door is likely the most popular course for locals. A medium length award winning championship course designed by Les Furber, Kelowna Springs is famous for undulating well manicured greens.
Of course the natural springs, colourful flower beds, and gentle waterfalls are a must see. Five small lakes are host to many pretty species of both local and migrating birds, keep your eyes open bird lovers. The par 71 course has over 25 species of trees. This is a course that is enjoyed by all. Reasonable prices. Also known for great food. Not much time and want to bring the little ones? Kelowna Springs Grass Putting Course (8) is perfect! 18 holes manicured, beautiful, and fun for the family. Perfect for anyone wanting to have fun without breaking the bank. Not looking to walk? Love riding a power cart? Black Mountain (9) on the south east side of Kelowna is an exciting new award winning undulating 18 hole –public championship course. 2010 Score Golf Finalist for “Best New Course” in Canada This course has some stunning water holes. Rolling hills and lots of trees. Somewhat rural yet close to the city core, ideal for all levels. Part of a real estate master plan community with a nice clubhouse. It is affordable and suits all levels. More awards, more courses, lots more to come, amazing eh? Gallagher’s Canyon (10) has been rated in the top 50 courses in Canada for the last 15 years ! Such a special piece of land this course sits on. 27 holes. The Canyon Course is famous for a scenic challenge. Undulating fairways that are generously wide and impeccably manicured. Stunning views of the city, Gallagher’s Canyon and Mission Creek.
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The Pinnacle (11) course is a 9 hole delight! It is the real deal. A par 32 course offering fun for all levels, bring the family. It is very reasonably price. Semi private but lots of room for tourists and locals. Harvest Golf Club (12) is just minutes from Gallagher’s. A well manicured course known for gentle rolling hills, super wide fairways. Famous for good service! A top shelf major course in the city. The gently undulating spectacle is cut through Orchards and Vineyards, offering city and Okanagan Lake viewpoints. 5 star dining in the clubhouse. Bon Appetite !
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Ok its time to head across the World Famous Floating Bridge to, the newly named city of West Kelowna. Shannon Lake (13) is the main 18 hole course in this region. Located 5 minutes off hwy 97 nestled into a residential neighborhood. A very pleasant undulating layout. The signature 17th features breathtaking views of Shannon Lake. This course is very popular with both locals and tourists as it is always well maintained. Clubhouse offers nice views and great food. Several great wineries are close by, golf and wine tasting anyone? Two Eagles (14) is right between an executive course and a full 18 hole course. Right off Hwy 97 a convenient location. A golf teaching academy offers lessons for all levels. Lots of nearby hotels. Tons of famous wineries including Mission Hill, Quails Gate, and several more are all 10 minutes apart! Ponderosa (15) in Peachland is a new 18 hole championship course with great views of Okanagan Lake, vineyards and the scenic hillside. PGA tour and famous Golf designer Greg Norman is working to make a world class course that will be legendary. Keep your eyes out for this course scheduled to open in 2011. A master planned community in the making.
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Summerland Golf and Country Club (16) is located on Paradise Flats, skirting Trout Creek Canyon . Relatively flat terrain with a combination of links style and tree lined rolling fairways and undulating greens. Penticton Golf & Country Club (17). Founded in 1922. A nice, fairly flat layout with narrow fairways makes for a good challenge, you will need a good wedge game to score here. Located right in the city bordering the historical rail line and creek. Spring 2011
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GOLF Okanagan Time to turn up the heat and the fun meter! Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course (18) in Oliver. This is an easily walked par 72 course. Full of pleasant surprises. Owned and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, Nk’Mip is a true desert course. Baste in the sun and enjoy the rustic views of the valley. Imagine what it was like for the early settlers. You will be playing on very historical land transformed into a beauty with mother nature always in full consideration. Fairview Mountain Golf Course (19) - Now this course rivals any in the valley and even world’s best courses! With a list of awards that is never ending, golfers come from far and wide to play this course. A spectacular undulating, extremely scenic layout designed by Canadian Les Furber. Breathtaking views and vistas from every hole. A previous winner of BCPGA Golf Facility of the Year award, awarded Top 100 Golf Courses in Canada by Score Magazine, and is consistently rated a Four Star “Must Play” Golf Facility by Golf Digest. 20 of our top Okanagan Valley boutique wineries are all within 15 minutes. A must play if you are going to the South Okanagan.
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Osoyoos Golf & Country Club (20) offers 2 fantastic courses just on the outskirts of the city. Desert Gold is a breathtaking par 71 course situated on a desert bench overlooking Osoyoos Lake, wine grape vineyards, and a multitude of pretty orchards. This beauty offers scenic vistas, gentle undulation, and first class enjoyment second to none. Park Meadows (20) – Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Valley” with rolling hilled fairways, and graceful willow trees. A classic mature course with huge trees and superb conditioning. Make sure to bring your camera when you play these courses so you can take a bit of the South Okanagan beauty with you. Relax on the patio after and enjoy your favourite beverage. Cheers ! Sonora Dunes (21) simply put is a 9 hole beauty. Onsite luxury resort accommodations, gourmet dining, a cultural centre, and full-service spa await you. Great for all levels. A true desert links course sits adjacent to the award winning winery. Enjoy the panorama of Osoyoos Lake, premium vineyards, and historic lands. This is ideal if you want to fit several activities in your day. Owned and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band. Well, there you are. That should keep your schedule booked for a while.
Spring 2011
GOLF Okanagan
Just a Five Iron Away
from Canada’s Top Wineries
3OUTH /KANAGAN 'OLF 4RAIL
Located in the heart of Canada’s Wine Capital, the South Okanagan Golf Trail is a scenic 90-minute drive from Kelowna International Airport. With the longest golf season in the Okanagan and located just a 5-iron away from some of our country’s best wineries, the likes of Burrowing Owl, Nk’Mip Cellars, and Tinhorn Creek, we offer the ultimate golf experience. Visit our website to view what we have to offer, accommodation partner information, and to book your tee time in the ultimate Canadian golf destination.
1-800-481-6665
1-866-534-7264
Nk’mip Canyon Desert Golf Course 1-800-656-5755
3OUTH /KANAGAN 'OLF 4RAIL www.southokanagangolf.com Spring 2011
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GOLF Okanagan
THE COPY-YO
THE ADVISOR Weed Whacking Golf Driver
Ok, so what do you get the golfer who has everything? Golf balls or a new glove - Boring! The ball landed in tall grass. Not a problem - Introducing – the weed whacking driver! Just pull out this side-splitter disguised as a club, flip open the hidden weed wacker and start cleaning up the tall grass around a wayward golf ball... done! www.bigdaddydriver.com
It’s here – the wearable GPS system that defines hazards, greens and more. The voice activated microcomputer GPS system is built into a compact clip-on device. With personal audio response activated by the golfer’s commands, it gives the distance to greens, bunkers, water, boundaries and more. Of course, all the while you’re still going to look like a golf dork talking to the invisible voices in your head, but hey - no cost is too high to shave a few strokes off your game, right? www.skykapllc.com
The best person you.com some skilled artists w kind”. Just give www.copy-you
BLING BLING
C’mon! Every true golf enthusiast has at least one of these 11-carat, diamond-studded, solid gold (70 grams of white gold), life size golf balls, right? Wait, you don’t have one? Serious? Seems you’re just not dedicated. But no problem, the friendly staff at Goldstriker can help you out (and since you are there you may order a solid gold laptop, cell phone or TV as well). But – don’t hit it too hard and make sure to keep an eye on it! www.goldstriker.co.uk
THE SHADOW CADDY
Caddies take heed! The Shadow Caddy is a small, automated golf cart that follows the golfer around the fairway carrying his golf bag. It is even designed to hold your drinks! The robo-caddy works by communicating with a sensor worn by the player and navigating its way around the links with built-in processors. Best thing - the Shadow Caddy will never be sticking his greasy palm out waiting for a tip! www.shadowcaddy.com
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GOLF Okanagan
OU FIGURINE
nal gift for everybody! Just send the guys at copye full-face photographs, pick a theme, and their will create a clay figurine which is truly “one of a e them 3-4 weeks and you’ll get the best gift ever! u.com
GOLF MASTER GPS WATCH
Combining a mechanical movement with a GPS application, the Golf Master Watch enables golfers for the very first time to measure the distance to the green, front edge or centre! This original function is displayed on the front of the watch in metres or yards, while the reversible “Rotar” mechanism provides a classic analogue reading of the time on the other side. With one touch, the time is also displayed digitally. Www.reconvilier.com
CUSTOMISED GOLF CARTS
Have you been looking for a golf cart that will wow your fellow golfers? How about a rugged, Hummer-like golf cart? Maybe something a bit more sleek? A Viper, Lamborghini or Cadillac-look-a-like? Even a Batmobile is available! There are several companies out there offering golfers a chance to show off their personalities - or just to show off. www.luxurycarts.com
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GOLF Okanagan
Hot New Drivers for 2011 NIKE VR PRO
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A - Nike Golf has taken full advantage of technology in the premium driver category. The new VR Pro driver is the latest addition to the premium VR line. It features a new Variable Compression Channel, which increases speed at impact in more spots on the clubface. The driver has a pearshaped Tour-driven head, which allows for more weight at the optimal center of gravity (CG) locations and delivers a hotter launch with optimal spin for the game’s best players. www.nike.com
B - TAYLORMADE R11 DRIVER
No doubt, this eye-catching new driver will provide a “wow”, but one that, according to the company, also serves a purpose. TaylorMade’s first 3D Driver features Flight Control Technology (FCT), Adjustable Sole Plate Technology(ASP) and Moveable Weight Technology (MWT). Huh? Well, let’s just say all of it gives you the most forgiving and technically advanced driver they have ever produced! It also offers excellent adjustability which contributes to straighter, longer drives.
www.taylormadegolf.com
fore!
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“Fore!” is shouted as a warning during a golf game when it appears possible that a golf ball may hit other players or spectators.
Is it time to try something new off the tee? How about a new driver? If you are an avid golfer, you know that a driver is the most important item in your golf kit. The right driver in your hands can make your game , an accurate drive can make the rest of the hole seem easy.
C - CALLAWAY DIABLO OCTANE DRIVER
No wonder this is one of the hottest new drivers for 2011: It’s been developed in conjunction with Automobili Lamborghini! Wohoo! A new material called Forged Composite is used in this drivers crown, which does not only make it lighter (the clubhead weighs less as 195 grams) but also stronger than its all titanium predecessors. And don’t worry - it retains an extremely high MOI.
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C’mon - this is a must pick! www.callawaygolf.com
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If you want to be on top of the trends in golf apparel there are a couple of things to look for. First of all it is all about ecofriendly or organic fabrics. Next are patterns. Stripes, checks, polka dots and argyle continue to be important in the golf apparel market but we also see bright colours to be a trend in 2011. Watch for fabrics with a UV-Protection and stylish hats to cope with our hot summers here in the Okanagan.
fashion
Yes, the golf industry does have trends. As fashion sense and lifestyle have become a more important part of life on the course we thought we would show you some hot trends. photos: Nike, Lacoste, Hugo Boss
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ENTER TO WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ... WIN ...
Wooohoooo ... YES, it’s TRUE! ICON Okanagan is DOING IT again ... We are RAFFLING off two packages incl. 3 rounds of GOLF at the BEST COURSES in the VALLEY!! Just sign up at www.icon-okanagan.com PRIZES: Three (3) winners will receive 2 rounds of golf/ea. at golf courses selected by ICON Okanagan Magazine. SELECTION OF WINNERS: Winners will be selected on June 24, 2011, in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. The drawing will be conducted by ICON Okanagan Magazine, whose decisions and interpretations on all matters relating to the Draw and these Official Rules are final and binding in all respects. ICON Okanagan reserves the right to disqualify any participant or winner and may refuse to award any prize to a person who is ineligible or has violated any rule, gained unfair advantage in participating in the Draw, or obtained winner status using fraudulent means. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Potential winners will be notified by Email and must meet all eligibility requirements. Return of a prize or prize notification as undeliverable, or inability of ICON Okanagan Magazine to contact a potential winner within seventy-two (72) hours of selection, may result in disqualification of such potential winner, and an alternate winner may be selected by random drawing at ICON Okanagan’s discretion. In the event a winner declines a prize, ICON Okanagan may, at its discretion, select an alternate winner by random drawing.
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