AllAbout Golf Resorts

GOLF RESORTS AllAbout

MAGAZINE

A GOLFER’S

PARADISE

ORLANDO, FL

THE SCIENCE

OF WHITE

vol. 2 issue 1 $4.99

TAYLORMADE R11 DRIVER

GOLF GETAWAY

TO BARBADOS

Letter from the

EDITOR

I came into the office one day and this issue was done. Editorial, design, ads sold.

The whole nine…well, let’s say 18 holes, for the sake of the golfers out there. At first, I was a little like the controlling boyfriend that doesn’t want his girl talking with any other guys. "Don’t you go running off and get edited by anyone else now, my love."

And then I thought to myself, that’s what golf resorts are all about. They show up.

They’re your caddy and concierge. They’re the beginning and the end of a magical experience of extreme golf ecstasy. I know it’s little melodramatic, but I’m a writer, so just roll with it.

Enough of my wordsmithing, let’s talk a little golf. In this issue we reviewed the TaylorMade R11, but more importantly, we got to the bottom of why they went with a white club. My first thought was that TM wanted terrible golfers to know they’re terrible when they hit underneath. Alas, there is in fact a science behind the white.

I also had the pleasure of reviewing the 2011 Buick Regal Turbo (BRT) for our "Car for the Course" segment. And yes, the police were involved at some point. Other mustread stories include the Barbados…Just a little slice of golfing heaven, our visit to Olde Stonewall, and of course, the magical land that is Lake Las Vegas.

If you’ve never looked at Vegas as a destination for golf, please look again. It’s absolutely fantastic. And while I’m talking about fantastic golf, let me throw Orlando in the mix, another place we reviewed for this issue. We’re your tour guide into the world’s greatest places to golf, the best products to use, and only we can give access to the coolest editors that both write and attempt to play respectable golf. Is 18 over par respectable?

So that’s it for now, open up and enjoy.

Rodney Burrell Executive Editor

GOLF RESORTS AllAbout

MAGAZINE

CEO, Editor-in-Chief

COO, Operations Mgr Gina Taylor gina@jvhmediagroup.com

Art Director

Josh Pekich joshp@jvhmediagroup.com

Julian V. Taylor julian@jvhmediagroup.com

Executive Editor

Rodney Burrell rodney@jvhmediagroup.com

Publishing Director

Nick Stupakis nick@jvhmediagroup.com

VP Interactive

Production Assistant

Catherine Boyd catherine@jvhmediagroup.com

Austin Cline austin@jvhmediagroup.com

Copy Editor

Rachel Sanchez

AllAboutGolfResorts.com Phone: 412-308-5900 Fax: 412-235-9791

438 Division Street Sewickley, PA 15143

AllAboutGolf Resorts is a subsidiary of JVH Media Group, LLC.

ON THE COVER:

Orange Lake Legends Course Hole 16 in Orlando, FL

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CONTENTS 24 COVER STORY

Orlando Fl: a golfer's paradise

FEATURES 6 Proshop

The latest and greatest products

20 The Science of White TaylorMade R11 Driver

36 Rules

Why are the rules of golf so complex?

44 Staff Picks

Four drivers that will draw a crowd

49 Car for the Course 2011 Buick Regal Turbo

RESORTS 14 Lake Las Vegas

A tranquil alternative to the strip

18 Barefoot Resort

Myrtle Beach's must-visit golf resort

33 Barbados

An international golf getaway

38 Tullymore and St. Ives Great service and great golf

40 Charleston, SC Golfing at its best

46 Olde Stonewall Western PA's hidden gem

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PROSHOP AllAboutGolf Resorts reviews the latest products that can help get your game on track.

ADIDAS CLIMAPROOF STORM MSRP $145 www.adidasgolf.com

Playing in the Northeast, rain gear is as essential in your bag as a putter or a driver.

And if you’re like most golfers, anytime you put on rain gear the first thing you think of is, “Will it keep me dry without making me feel like it’s restricting my swing?” The answer is yes if you’re wearing the ClimaProof Storm Soft Shell rain jacket from Adidas. Not only is it waterproof, but the 2-layer laminate polyester shell and the polyester mesh lining give you the feel of wearing a polo shirt, not a rain jacket.

Eighteen holes, 6 beers, and a hot dog= $85 Not hearing or feeling that uncomfortable crinkling sound that most rain gear makes….priceless.

BRIGESTONE e6 BALL

www.brdgestonegolf.com

Just think: You’re on the eighth hole and you already hooked or sliced your driver four times. Rather than having to listen to your golf buddy’s ‘quick fixes’ (that still put them in the woods), take advantage of the new e6 by Bridgestone. The e6 is the softest multi layer golf ball on the market. The e6 provides significant side spin reduction to minimize a slice or hook spin, helping you hit the ball straighter and longer. Bridgestone’s new Dual Dimple Technology gives you that extra boost off of the tee that you have been looking for. The inside dimple works to increase thrust power at launch, while the outer dimple promotes a shallow angle of descent for increased roll.

What Bridgestone ball fits your game?

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R

REU984

A

INATION UNLIKE ANY O T S E D T R T HE R ES O

It’s more than just playing golf. It’s experiencing the game at its finest. At Reunion Resort and Club, that means taking on three courses designed by golf’s most storied legends – Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson. ®

Reunion also features the one and only ANNIKA Academy, where golfing legend Annika Sorenstam shares her passion for golf and fitness.

TM

Personalized attention, spectacular accommodations and a cashless, tipless policy that ensures an exceptional level of service at every turn. All of this complemented by an incredible club atmosphere that’s sure to enhance your stay with us.

Located in Orlando, FL, just minutes from Central Florida’s main attractions and airports, Reunion is the destination for your next great golf outing.

855-402-9772 | ReunionResort.com | ReunionResortMagazine.com

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PROSHOP BAGS TO CARRY Lugging a hefty golf bag around a course can really weigh you down, especially in the summer months. By the time you reach the 18th, your back and shoulders are aching, affecting everything from your tee shots to your putting.

Popular bag manufacturer Ogio has found a solution to this problem: the Ultralite Performance Series.

SLIGO APPAREL

www.sligowear.com

OGIO GOLF BAGS www.ogio.com/golf

When you look good, you feel confident, and when you feel confident, you go low.

Sligo, renowned for their stylish golf shirts, released their line with both fashion and function in mind. Their primary concern is to bring modern fashions to the game of golf in an attempt to debunk the stereotype of old, blue-blooded men with checkered pants. Sligo is also aware of the need for functional clothing; the summer sun can wear down a golfer and Sligo knows this.

Their attire will help keep you cool and protected from the sun without sacrificing style. If you play better when your score and attire turns heads...then check them out at www.sligowear.com

For golfers who prefer to walk a course, Oglio’s innovative Velocity and Helios bags may be the solution you are looking for. The Velocity, weighing 3.6 pounds, features the O-Shox technology straps that provide superior air flow for a cooler feel. The Velocity is priced at $195. The Helios, the lightest in the series, weighs only 3.3 pounds, is the smaller equivalent with all the features of the Velocity bag but for only $160.

ASHWORTH CARDIFF SHOES

MSRP $120 www.ashworthgolf.com Looking for a golf shoe with the cross-over appeal of a town shoe? Playability, wearability and a sure-footed spikeless sole unite with tumbled leathers and rich suede accents to take the Cardiff from the course to the clubhouse and beyond.Â

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PLAY ONEofTHE WORLD’S

GREAT COURSES AND KNOW WHAT THE PROS WILL FACE. challenge yourself on the site of the 2012 pga championship.

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$189*

On Cougar Point, Osprey Point, Turtle Point & Oak Point golf courses. Surcharge for The Ocean Course.

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888.866.0417 • kiawahgolf.com Real Estate: 866.542.9246 kiawahresort.com/realestate

Tickets and event information: pga2012.com 5 GOLF COURSES

BEACH

VILLAS

THE SANCTUARY

*Based on availability. Per person, per night based on 4 golfers in a 2-bedroom West Beach Scenic View resort villa.

Minimum stay of 2 nights & 2 rounds required. Taxes & fees additional. Sanctuary hotel packages also available. Valid through 11/27/11.

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PROSHOP

ADIDAS adiPURE Z SHOE www.adidasgolf.com

It only takes a quick glance, maybe three or four seconds, for someone to evaluate your golf game. They’ll form an opinion based on body language, demeanor, mannerisms, and apparel...especially your shoes.

Shoes are the biggest giveaway because some golfers consider them to be practical necessities, not a piece of equipment. Shoes can not only help your golf game, but their style alone can strike uncertainty into the mind of an opponent. Sounds crazy, right? Next time you’re on the first tee box, take a look at everyone’s shoes and see for yourself. (This doesn’t apply if you’ve seen their practice swing and it looks like Charles Barkley’s.)

Nice shoes also means that you pay attention to detail, and in golfing, the little details can make the difference between par and double bogie. The people at Adidas golf feel the same way I do. When you look your best, you play your best. That has never been more evident than with their new release of the adiPURE Z’s.

Once I got them out my first thought was, “Wow these are probably the nicest golf shoes I have ever owned, but there is no way they are going to fit my big flat feet!” I get all my shoes in a size 12, but since I have about as much loft in the arch of my foot as a 1 iron, I rarely find shoes that fit and are comfortable.

At first, I had some troubles slipping them on, but that only lasted a second and then my foot popped right in. I couldn’t believe that they fit. This was my first introduction to fitFoam and now I don’t know how I will ever wear a golf shoe without it. FitFoam molds to your foot and distributes weight and pressure to give you a personalized fit. It felt great walking around my yard, swinging my clubs, and I felt the difference after 18 holes.

Normally, my car ride home is filled with foot and ankle pain, but I felt less pressure on my feet with the adiPURE Z. Not only do the adiPURE Z’s look great, but the R&D and technology advances that Adidas has incorporated are equally as impressive.

After playing a few rounds wearing these shoes this is what I can tell you: if you’re looking to make a good first impression on the course, or if you’re in the market for a shoe that is stylish, comfortable, and has technology that actually can help your game, then let me save you some time searching for the right shoe.

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SPECS

STABILITY: ADVANCED THINTECH The entire cleat and attachment system has been reengineered to bring golfers closer to the ground.

The result is advanced THiNTech with PINS (Performance INsert System), which is 32% lower than conventional cleat systems. The result is greater balance and all around feel.

ELEMENTS: ClimaProof combines technologies to deliver 100% waterproof protection. The first layer wicks inside moisture to the shoe’s surface, while the second layer surrounds the foot with a waterproof membrane.

TRAXION: A high-traxion outsole featuring secondary lugs that are strategically shaped and placed to provide maximum grip and prevent slippage in all types of ground surfaces while remaining green-friendly.

POWER: REENGINEERED POWERBAND CHASSIS POWERBAND CHASSIS harnesses the energy of the swing and delivers more of it to the ball at impact. It also helps with stability and better weight transfer through impact.

GRIP: THINTECH CLEAT Advanced cleat system combines a low-profile, anti-clogging cleat design and thinner receptacle to bring golfers closer to the ground for better power transfer, balance, footwork and more consistent ball striking.

SWITCH VISION

One of my favorite products of the year is the switch sunglass: a stylish, seamless sunglass with interchangeable magnetic lenses. The magic is in the magnets. From using them first hand, I can say that there isn’t a better product on the market. Most, or let’s say, all of the other interchangeable or magnetic products I’ve tested have been downright terrible. I felt like the awkward high school kid with the pocket protector.

“Ahem! Hold on guys, I need to get my walking lenses on…I bet the girl is really going to dig these.”

No prom date for you, sir.

However, the Switch gives you the ability to change out lenses in a snap, literally. And the most important functionis that they look great. That’s one department where the design team went above and beyond the call of duty.

Youthful design and usability really make the Switch easy to a new pair. I know what you’re thinking.

This sounds great, editor guy, but I have a prescription.

No need to fret Switch also makes RXable frames and lenses. So now you won’t be able to blame that triple bogey on your sight.

For more information on Switch, check out www.switchvision.com

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PROSHOP NIKE METHOD PUTTER www.nike.com/nikegolf The METHOD putter features a “polymetal” face that brings milled steel and polymer together to create a club that allows weight to be redistributed from the front to the rear for added control and improved MOI while also increasing your putt stability.

The polymetal groves allow for better “forward roll” which results in improved accuracy. The new groves also prevent the ball from rising too high, a problem found with many putters.

Instead, the ball is struck with more force and without the lack of control usually associated with a firmly struck putt.

The METHOD putter also has a softer feel than other traditional all-metal face putters. This will help inspire confidence on the greens by giving you the feeling that you are striking right through the ball as opposed to simply knocking on the surface. Thanks to the METHOD series of putters, Nike has finally gained membership into the elite group of top putter manufacturers.

TRAVISMATHEW APPAREL www.travismathew.com

Travis Mathew, golf apparel’s most progressive brand since 2007, provides an exclusive line of lifestyle wear and accessories in department stores as well as your local country clubs. The Travis Mathew Fall 2011 collection stays “true to their roots” yet includes modern detail. This line can be fashionable, fit, and appropriate from the course to a night out on the town. Three woven pieces that are being introduced with this line include The Fountain, Mena and Loz Feliz. Soon following these signature styled pieces, the Travis Mathew collection will introduce the London and Steadman shoes. The shoes have a water-resistant outer shell, a low pro sole, a custom bottom grip and (like the clothing) are perfect for on and off the course.

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TITLEIST PRO V BALLS www.titleist.com

Drop, Stop, and No Roll The new Pro V1 incorporates two new features. The first enhancement was made to its core technology. The new ZG process core technology allows them to produce the most uniform core ever made in a Titleist ball. The new Pro V1 also has an increase in spin compared to the prior generation. The dimples have been changed to a spherically tiled 352 tetrahedral design which results in a more penetrating and consistent flight.

Delivering very low spin off the driver and long irons, the new Pro V1x provides longer distance and more consistent flight along with its renowned Drop-and-Stop greenside control. It has the same dual core construction as the previous generation and delivers the same spin and feel characteristics Pro V1x players have come to expect. Its new dimple pattern delivers higher trajectory and a peak that is further down range, which results in increased carry distances for most players. Similar to the new Pro V1, the new dimple design is also creating a more consistent ball flight.

INSPIRING. PROFESSIONAL. Unforgettable.

A Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the Southwestern desert, Ravella creates a dramatic setting with unimaginable luxury. With world class golf just minutes from the hotel, let us arrange a preferred tee time at South Shore or at any number of golf courses in the Las Vegas area. Ravella also offers soothing spa treatments, outdoor pool, on site fitness center, lake activities and unforgettable cuisine. A stay at Ravella is like no other.

Call today to book your next stay 888.810.0440 or visit us at ravellavegas.com

THE VILLAGE AT LAKE LAS VEGAS A Tranquil Alternative to the Strip L

ocated only 17 miles from the famed Las Vegas strip, the Village at Lake Las Vegas Resort is a Mediterranean-inspired vacation destination that is not just for avid golfers. Whether you stay at the Loews Hotel, Aston MonteLago Resort, or the Ravella Hotel, Lake Las Vegas was created with tranquility in mind. It is a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of other resorts in and around the strip. With top quality golf courses, spas, and outdoor activities, Lake Las Vegas is ideal for families and couples alike.

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RESORTREVIEW

SOUTH SHORE GOLF COURSE

This 18 hole championship quality golf course was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus in 1996. GolfWeek magazine ranked South Shore in its annual Top 100 Modern Courses in 2008 and the club is currently accepting new members. Widely considered the best course in Vegas, South Shore hugs the shore of the lake and extends all the way to the desert hills. This par 71, 6,917-yard course blends beautifully with the Vegas backdrop.

With 88 strategically placed bunkers, South Shore is a challenging course for even the most seasoned golfer.

TUSCANY GOLF CLUB

Just three miles from the village, the Tuscany course is player-friendly with excellent views of the strip and the desert hills. This par 72, 6,906-yard championship course is perfect for experienced players and firsttimers. Designed by respected architect Ted Robinson, the course opened in 2003 and is a great choice for golfers of all handicaps. Working closely with the resorts at the Village, Tuscany Golf Club strives to make your stay an experience to remember.

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RAVELLA RESORT

Named after a small town in Southern Italy, the resort was a Ritz-Charlton before transforming into the Italy-inspired Ravella in February 2011. Keeping all the glamor and luxury of the Ritz, but without the exaggerated price tag, Ravella touts itself as the premier business retreat location in all of Nevada. With 349 rooms, including 35 luxury suites, Ravella provides an excellent view of the lake and the adjacent desert hills with a uniquely tranquil and relaxed feel. The resort also features its own small private beach to soak in the sun when the public beaches are too crowded. If the lake calls your name, large, catered boat cruises are available and can accommodate up to 100 people for dining or cocktails.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-888-810-0440 or visit them online at www.ravellahotel.com.

LOEWS LAKE LAS VEGAS

Originally a Hyatt, the resort converted the hotel to Loews in late 2006. With 293 rooms, this luxurious hotel rests upon 3,600 acres of land adjacent to the natural beauty of Lake Las Vegas itself. Relax along the white sandy beaches, cabanas, or two of their signature pools. For an extra stress-buster, visit the resort spa, which includes multiple types of massage, either poolside in one of the many cabanas or performed directly in your room on those days that you just don’t want to take off your bathrobe!

ASTON MONTELAGO CONDOS

MonteLago Resort is a truly Tuscan experience without leaving the country. Inspired by the casual and leisurely pace of Northern Italy, the resort is designed with the family in mind. Shopping along cobblestone streets invites comparisons to Tuscany itself while small boutiques and authentic Italian restaurants will encourage a relaxing and tranquil stay. The resort features two separate condos: the high-end, luxurious Viera and the modern, contemporary design of Luna di Lusso. Rooms vary from one to three bedrooms with a kitchen, a welcome change from eating out. With lake views, a gorgeous sun terrace to soak in the rays, and three pools and two hot tubs that offer an alternative to the sandy beaches of the lake itself, MonteLago Resort will provide you with the R&R you so desperately crave. Plus, when the gambling bug bites, the strip is only a short drive away.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Unlike other resorts and hotels in and around Sin City, the Village at Lake Las Vegas strives to provide a suitable vacation spot for the entire family, including the little ones. Loews University, a new feature at the resort, gives children a unique opportunity to learn the fine art of sushi preparation, taught by the resort’s own Master Chef Fuji.

For the more active guests, Lake Las Vegas is ideal for fly fishing, nature walks, or to rent a paddle boat or a sea kayak. And what’s more, the Village is soon to offer a unique yoga opportunity. Instead of the regular classes you can find just about anywhere in the country, Lake Las Vegas will begin a yoga course…on a paddle boat!

When the strip is too much for you and your family, the Village at Lake Las Vegas will provide you with the relaxation and tranquility you are seeking with the Old World charm of Northern Italy.

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RESORTREVIEW

“Widely considered the best course in Vegas, South Shore hugs the shore of the lake and extends all the way to the desert hills.”

LAKE LAS VEGAS RESORT

SHORT TERM LONG TERM VACTION VILLA RENTALS

1-800-941-3654

CALL NOW www.lakelasvegasrentals.com

BEST OF LAS VEGAS WINNER 2011

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RESORTREVIEW

Barefoot Resort T

he popularity of Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Resort & Golf might be explained in only four words: Norman, Love, Fazio, and Dye. These four words names, rather – belong to Barefoot’s four world class golf courses as well as the men behind their design.

Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye, some of golf’s most distinguished course architects, contributed to the layout of the courses that bear their name. The courses are frequently mentioned in lists of the top courses and have been honored by practically every golf publication of note. Barefoot’s acclaimed quartet is distinguished for their marvelous aesthetic value and their unique design which makes playing them fun for novice and accomplished golfers alike.

“Barefoot’s acclaimed quartet is distinguished for their marvelous aesthetic value and their unique design...”

The Barefoot Resort sits upon 2,300 acres along sixty miles of coastline in north Myrtle Beach, and is comprised of twenty-three distinct private residential communities.

Barefoot homeowners can enjoy “The Resident’s Club,” an eight-acre complex which features a fitness center, library, a game and billiards hall, 3 lighted tennis courts, walking and jogging trails, and a large outdoor pool with dedicated lap and wading areas. Residents of the Barefoot communities can also take advantage of the 18 AllAboutGolfResorts.com

“South Carolina’s subtropical climate, gorgeous beaches, and lush vegetation make Myrtle Beach a natural paradise.” resort’s deep water marina and a town center with shops, restaurants and hotels, as well as private access to the sugary sand beach.

Barefoot’s residential communities consist of handsome single family homes and multiunit complexes that feature course side properties. The most appealing aspect of owning a home in a Barefoot community, however, may be the privileges enjoyed by residents at the four golf courses.

South Carolina’s subtropical climate, gorgeous beaches, and lush vegetation make Myrtle Beach a natural paradise.

Add to that the generous amenities and award-winning golf courses at Barefoot Resort….well, if there is a word for better than paradise, I can’t find it.

877-585-9351

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The Science of

WHITE TAYLORMADE R11 DRIVER WORDS NICK STUPAKIS PHOTOS TODD KAPPELT

There is no question now that the R11 has been a huge success for TaylorMade. From a marketing perspective, it was one of the most anticipated launches in the history of the industry. But was it a risk?

There have been other manufacturers of white clubs that have come and gone. We sat down with Tom Olsavsky, Director of Product Creation to find out exactly what TaylorMade was thinking and if there really is a “Science of White.”

AllAboutGolfResorts.com 21

Can you tell me a little about your background in the golf business?

My background is actually mechanical engineering and I’ve been in the golf business 20 years. I spent about 12 of those years in the R&D side of it and lately I’ve been in this product creation gig, so it’s been good.

That seems like a very cool place to work…

It’s funny. I grew up in Youngstown, Ohio, went to school in Cleveland, worked in the Midwest in the automotive industry, and I saw an ad in an engineering magazine for a job as a golf club engineer and I said, “Ooh, that would be cool”. I sent in my resume and ended up getting the job. Now, I’ve been at this 20 years. You’re right. It is very cool, and I find myself very lucky.

Since 1978 when Gary Adams built the first TaylorMade drivers, all the way to the Pittsburgh Persimmons, TaylorMade has always led the way in technology. What do you think sets TaylorMade apart from other manufacturers?

Obviously, there are a lot of good manufacturers, but one thing that sets us apart is our core values and the fact that we are golfers. We think about golf all the time and we’re really passionate about it: the competitive part of golf, as well at the innovation. I think innovation is the key thing that helps us. A few companies say that they play golf, but some of our biggest

competitors don’t claim to be as much about golf as they are about the golf business.

In our company, everyone is into golf: we play golf, we compete against each other, we think like golfers, and we think about other golfers all the time.

So tell me about the Science of White.

One of the things we studied a lot in making drivers better is the way that people use the driver to aim and align the golf club. A lot of this was started with drivers a long time ago, but we have also spent some time on the putting side as well. If you think about those two clubs, they have a lot of surface area on the club head itself and not a lot of loft. It’s a little bit challenging for some golfers to actually aim the face, because that’s a critical part of what golfers need to do.

So, we did some research with professors in the world of vision and optometry that specialize in sports medicine. The research showed us that you really want to help the golfer by giving him more contrast between the crown and the face.

When you look at colors- there’s really no more contrast than white and black. You can’t really make the face white because of impacts and things like that, but we decided to make the face black and the crown white. We had a black crown, and golfers would come to us and say that it was really hard to aim with a black crown and a black face. Teaching pros would say the same thing. This gave us an idea that we can make these products better for alignment by going to a higher contrast system.

Was the R11 directly anyone’s idea or was it collaboration?

“Not only were the numbe r of golfers steady, but the value of what was purcha sed in terms of equipment had been declining since 20 06 (on an order of more than thirty percent in term s of sales dollars).”

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Well, one of the things we were looking at was a little bit of stagnation in the industry, meaning that the number of golfers isn’t changing in the US. One of the things we were trying to do was, “How do we change the attitude about golf?” Not only were the number of golfers steady, but the value of what was purchased in terms of equipment had been declining since 2006 (on an order of more than thirty percent in terms of sales dollars). We looked at that and realized sales dollars weren’t growing, sales numbers were actually going down. We asked ourselves what we could do to liven up the industry, to grow more buzz around the product and how it performs.

That was something that we felt was our

responsibility to do as the largest equipment company. We really wanted to create some excitement and interest in the category about drivers, metal woods, and the ways golfers can play golf. We did experiment with a lot of colors, not just white, including some that we used in the past and some that we hadn’t. It was an interesting study on our side to see what golfers thought initially and what they thought after they hit the product. Some golfers would say that they wouldn’t play that, because it looks too different. That was the one thing we knew would be out there since some golfers are more conservative. Then when we actually went and let consumers and tour players hit the product, the tour players really thought the product was awesome. They could hit it better, and after a few shots they didn’t even think about the white. In that sense, we really saw excitement around the product itself.

We knew that the industry has moved through different color phases for different reasons throughout history, but because our color scheme is performance-based the color scheme will be “stickier” than some of the others in the past.

Why do you think white clubs have never caught on before?

There have been a number of whites out there. We launched one in 2008, a women’s offering, but the difference between that

and the R11 was that it was a glossy white which was a different issue.

Cobra had a white one many years ago and Wilson also had one fairly recently. Everyone has dabbled around with it, but the reason why we think it’s so valuable is we’ve done more with the club and the paint itself. When you put glossy paint on a normal crown, you get a hot spot, which was distracting to golfers. We learned that we needed to take that hot spot and reduce it as much as possible.

Ours is a flat-colored white and that really helps to take away the glare. You get the benefits of the alignment and do not have any issues with glare. That was a big difference between the R11 and the older offerings of the white idea.

Do you expect Taylormade to continue making white drivers?

We would expect at least 5-10 years, because it is performance based. Some of the other things we’ve done in the past in terms of color have lasted a long time in this industry. We feel this is the optimal contrast, the best you can do. We feel we will have a lot of staying power.

I think a lot of people are caught up in the White Technology- could you tell me about the other new advanced features?

face angle you get from the change in the angle of the loft. When you change a loft, like we did with the R9s, you’re going to get a closed face angle. We found that with the R9s, it wasn’t the best thing for golfers. We wanted to get the closed face system with the extra loft, so in general, it was something that they weren’t happy with. This was apparent when we launched the R9 products in 2009. By adding the new system, you can dial the club in more than any other in the market today. With drivers, it’s a pretty simple goal: they always have to go longer and straighter.

Where do you go from here?

The challenge always is that it’s longer and straighter. We have to continue to work harder in order to make the performance better. The adjustability is really just taking hold, but there are options there. In many cases, we don’t really know what we will do next year until late in the summer. It takes us about six months from when we finalize a product to when can we ship it. A lot of that is based on the previous year’s feedback on the products, the marketplace, and other improvements we come up with.

If you could have any pro in the R&D lab who would it be?

One of the guys that is great for feedback is Retief Goosen, because he’s more of a technical guy and in many cases, he will try out clubs on his own. Sergio does that as well, and both of them have a great sense of feel. Justin Rose is also very good, a very articulate young man, and we’ve worked with him for a long time ever since he went pro. Those three guys from a feedback standpoint are at the top of the list as well as great players.

The key benefit that is new to the club is the Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) which allows us to change the face angle independent of the hosel. If you look at a metal wood or a driver with a hosel adjustable system to adjust the angles, you get whatever AllAboutGolfResorts.com 23

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ORLANDO,FL

W

hen you think of Orlando, golf might not be the first thing on your mind (unless you count TW’s ex teeing off on his‌.rear window) Most people think of Disney, the land of the $8.00 bottle of water, and some very large cartoon characters. But anyone who has played golf in Orlando knows what a gem the area is. Not only is there a golf course at every corner, but they are some of the most scenic, well-manicured courses you can find anywhere.

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Grand Cypress If you ever grew up wanting to play a round at The Old Course and your idea of a great day of golf includes fast greens, a great layout, and challenging golf shots, then you can’t pass up a trip to Grand Cypress while you’re in Orlando.

Grand Cypress Golf Resort offers four different course options, each with their own unique qualities and challenges. With three 9-hole courses and one full 18-hole course, the 45 holes at Grand Cypress will provide a challenge for a skilled golfer, but is forgiving enough that a high handicap player can still bang the ball around a little.

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AAGR

ORLANDO,FL

“While you’re driving out of the course, through the Cypress Tunnel, you will definitely be daydreaming about your next tee time at Grand Cypress.”

NORTH, SOUTH AND EAST COURSES

Grand Cypress features three distinct 9-hole courses, all of which are designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. The original combination, the North-South courses, is a haven for golfers with pinpoint accuracy; long drives are less important than accurate, well struck shots. The East Course is a more forgiving course with wider fairways and limited bunkers; although deep woods do play a role on several holes. By changing the combination of courses, these three 9-hole courses have plenty of variety to keep you interested for a full round of golf.

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NEW COURSE

The New Course, also designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a tribute to St. Andrews. If you’re not planning on making the trip across the pond anytime soon, then this is the next best thing. It features wide, long and multitiered greens, wide fairways, and deep-pocketed bunkers.

Although the New Course may appear to be a simpler course in comparison to the North, South and East Courses, don’t be deceived. A lot of courses use the word “Links” in their name and that doesn’t really do the term any justice. If you have never played a true links style course than the pot bunkers, which are

difficult to spot until you’re stuck in one (some of which are as deep as 12 feet), this can really make a difference on your scorecard. Add to this the fact that the fairways appear to be flat but in reality fluctuate greatly creates some of the most difficult types of shots to master.

I can guarantee you one thing about playing here: while you’re driving out of the course, through the Cypress Tunnel, you will definitely be daydreaming about your next tee time at Grand Cypress.

Reunion Resort

I don’t have to mention the amazing scenery. I don’t have to tell you about the drive into the Resort that features gorgeous homes, hot air balloons, and a resort that looks like something right out of a movie. I don’t have to mention the spa, The Annika Academy, their ten pools plus a water park, and their six restaurants. All I have to say is 3 courses designed

by Palmer, Nicklaus, and Watson. You’re sold.

LEGACY COURSE

Designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, the Legacy Course is characterized by rolling hills that undulate greatly – sometimes as much as 50 feet on a single hole. This par 72 course measures 6,916 yards from the longest tees with a course rating of 73.4 and a slope of 137. The 7th hole, arguably the most entertaining, is a 303 yard par 4 that will entice golfers to go for broke.

INDEPENDENCE COURSE

This Tom Watson designed course is highlighted by large greens, wide fairways and plenty of sand traps.

This par 72 course measures 7,257 yards with a course rating of 74.7 and a slope of 140 from the longest tees. Although long, the Independence Course is more about pinpoint accuracy than it is about hitting the long ball. Carefully planning each shot is required here, especially when it comes to your short game.

TRADITION COURSE

Designed by famed architect and golfer Jack Nicklaus, the Tradition Course is beautiful and deceptively difficult. Like many Nicklaus-designed courses, the Tradition Course tempts players to crush the ball from the elevated tee boxes; however, you will have to decide on many holes if the juice is worth the squeeze. This par 72 measures 7,244 yards from the longest tees with a course rating of 76.7 and a slope of 147. Be prepared to play your best strategic game and have series of shots in mind to play this Orlando gem.

The Reunion Resort’s goal is to offer a vacation where you have every amenity that will satisfy Dad, Mom, and the kids. It has amazing golf and offers you the ability to go from the course with your buddies to the pool with your family in just a few steps. Try not to get excited, Dad… nine more holes are just a few steps away.

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ORLANDO,FL

Orange Lake All resorts aim to build relationships with their guests by building facilities that cater to the needs of couples, families, and corporations.

The hope is to create a unique experience and to encourage their guests to come back, time and time again. There is no blueprint on how to accomplish this, but Orange Lake Resort’s approach is pretty close to becoming the standard.

Driving along US 192, you might notice a few holes of the resort, but you could just as easily drive past without noticing. Take a closer look and you will find a whole community nestled inside the walls of a 1,450 acre facility, where you can spend your entire vacation. Everything is close at hand: stores, shops, lake sports, golf, mini golf, rock climbing, a lazy river, restaurants, and over 2,400 villas. When all your vacationing needs are met within a short distance, it makes for a memorable and intimate trip. On top of all that, let’s not forget Orange Lakes is a golf resort, with a beautiful tapestry of challenging, yet fun courses.

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CRANE’S BEND

A par 30, nine hole course built around the fountain lake at the front of the resort.

If you’re looking for a quick nine or a fun afternoon with the kids, Crane’s Ben is the perfect choice.

LEGENDS WALK

Not just another typical Pitch and Putt. The Legends Walk was designed by Arnold Palmer and features five sets of tees to challenge golfers at all levels. The best part is that the course is fully lighted so you can play at night.

THE RESERVE

In 2005, Mike Dasher transformed Orange Lake’s Resort Course into a challenging new track which highlights carefully preserved wetlands that surround the course.

THE LEGENDS

If you’re going to use the word “Legend” when naming a course, it better have the pedigree to go with it. After playing at Orange Lake’s Legends course, I can attest that both in name (Legends namesakes, Arnold Palmer and Kemmons Wilson, Founder of Holiday Inn Hotels) and in course quality, The Legends exceeds those standards.

“I believe we have a facility so extraordinary that “someone” decided to build four theme parks around us. We have a unique opportunity to attract a wide variety of guests because we offer more than just resort stay. We offer an experience.” Kimberly Chase-Assistant Director of Golf Sales and Marketing

The Legends is a meticulously manicured course that puts a premium on decision making. The Pines and The Links (the two nines) play to those respective styles.

Nine holes of challenging classic links style golf and the other nine more of a tree lined track so that you get the best of both styles. The course has generous landing areas for tee shots and well designed approach shots that are challenging, yet fair to all levels of golfers.

The people at Orange Lake won’t try to compare themselves to any of the other big name courses in the area, but there is no doubt The Legends can hold its own with anyone in the Orlando market.

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AAGR

ORLANDO,FL

Champions Gate

In 2000, Orlando welcomed 36 holes of British golf with an American flair. Designed by Greg Norman, Champions Gate is one of the top ranked places to play in Florida. With two courses that will test you off the tee, on your approach shots, on the putting surface, and located just minutes from Disney World and Universal Resorts, Champions Gate is a must for Orlando Golf trips.

INTERNATIONAL COURSE

The International Course is a links-inspired, 18 hole course designed with a hint of Norman’s homeland – Australia. As with any links-style course, deep pot bunkers, undulating fairways and tiered greens are the trademark of the International. The International also features several water hazards to force proper club selection. This par 72, 7,363-yard course has a high rating of 76.3 with a slope of 143, which will prove to be challenging for golfers of any level. The 3rd hole, a par 5 is often considered to be one of Florida’s best holes. A long tee shot is required to clear the wetlands and wide dunes, while approach shots will have to be played between pot bunkers and sand dunes.

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NATIONAL COURSE

The National is a more approachable course in comparison to the International. This 18 hole course measures 7,128 yards from the longest tees with a course rating of 75.1 and a slope of 133. A scenic course, the National overlooks Florida wetlands and deep woods with perfectly kept fairways and greens. With four tee boxes, complimentary GPS units on all carts, as well as yardage markers across the fairways, high handicappers will find it easier to score without some of the troubles presented by the International. Easier being very subjective, because there are some challenges, including vast wetlands and over 80 bunkers that you still need to navigate.

The International Course is one of the AAGR top picks in Orlando. Both courses at Champions Gate are not of your typical East Coast design and depending what tees you play from, they can really test your game. If you’re looking for a challenging course that allows you to play the game of golf how it was intended to be played, Champions Gate is a great option.

Falcon’s Fire Year round great weather and a close proximity to Disney World has created a huge golf market in Orlando, but in the early 1990’s, the Orlando golf scene wasn’t anywhere near where it is today. In a time where gorgeous, large, campus-style resorts didn’t even exist in the area, Falcon’s Fire Golf Club came along and set the bar for public courses. Today Falcon’s Fire continues to set national and regional trends as one of the nicest public courses in Orlando.

Complimentary valet service, golf carts equipped with a high-tech GPS device, beautiful scenery and plenty of golf amenities provide a golfing experience unique among the many beautiful courses in the area.

“Today Falcon’s Fire continues to set national and regional trends as one of the nicest public courses in Orlando.”

When Marriott Resorts purchased Falcon’s Fire in 2009, they were granted a $1.5 million dollar renovation toward their courses and club houses. During the golf course renovation, all greens were resurfaced, the course got new tee boxes to stretch out to over 7,000 yards, and enlarged bunkers were installed.

The newly constructed tee boxes introduce you to each hole: Quick Start, Water’s Edge, Go for Broke, Lay Up, Test of Courage, and Bunker Hill.

These fun (and often foreboding) names prepare the golfer for upcoming challenges and offer advice on how to play the hole. The majority of fairways are forgiving with large landing areas that provide numerous approach shots to the pin. The newly renovated greens are fast, smooth and mildly undulating allowing for a putting experience that can normally only be found on private courses.

The first six flags at Falcon’s Fire are found easier than the next six, which require a more accurate shot as several water hazards and sand bunkers strategically guard the approaches and flagsticks. The final six holes are some of the most memorable on the course. Not only are they going to test your shot making, but they will challenge you to make some decisions on how to play each hole.

Finish your round and stop by the renovated clubhouse or the beautiful Falcon’s Nest restaurant where you can enhance your experience with great service, food, and drink.

Falcon’s Fire is Orlando public golf at its best.

You’re treated to beautiful scenery, provided with country club-type amenities, and offered resort-style service as you get to play a challenging yet fair course – don’t miss playing here if you’re in Orlando!

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AAGR

ORLANDO,FL

Crave Crave is an upscale, but not stuffy restaurant based in Orlando.

Its Mediterranean/Italian/Sushi twist with fresh, vibrant American flair provides customers with a unique experience and even more mouth watering cuisine.

WHAT I HAD EDAMAME WITH GLAZED SRIRACHA AND SOY SAUCE GODZILLA ROLL- Spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, cream cheese, avocado, cucumber, seaweed salad, crunchy flakes, and sweet sauce. Unreal.

NORI-CRUSTED NEW YORK STRIP- A perfect Strip wrapped in dried seaweed and seared on top.

ROOT 1 CARMENERE- A Chilean wine.

PUBLISHER’S PICK– Nori Crusted New York Strip.

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Blue Martini

Need a place to go in Orlando to have a few cocktails and talk about the putt you missed on #12? Or maybe you just want to check out the nightlife that Orlando has to offer. Either way, take a quick trip to Blue Martini and you will not be disappointed. You can go casual and hang out on their outside patio, work the room a little inside with their large bar and dance floor, or get a seat in the VIP and take your trip to the next level. Looking for live entertainment? It’s Blue Martini’s specialty. Whatever your choice make sure you try one of their signature Blue Martini’s!

Publisher’s Pick- 007Bacardi “0”, Orange Juice, 7-up…..and a Bond girl.

BARBADOS A GOLFER’S DELIGHT

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hanks to its beautiful weather and climate, Barbados is a golfer’s paradise, providing some of the best golf experiences in the Caribbean. With stunning ocean vistas combined with sunny skies and luxury resorts, Barbados should be considered a must see for traveling golfers.

APES HILL CLUB

Located in St. James, Apes Hill Club Barbados is a private club featuring a championship quality 18 hole course.

Open since 2009, Ape Hills is approachable by casual players and seasoned veterans alike. This 7,150yard par 72 features elevated tee boxes that provide breathtaking views of the coastline. With a course rating of 74.7 and a slope of 132, experienced golfers will face plenty of challenges while casual players will enjoy the serene and tranquil experience amidst thick woodlands, glistening ravines and rich green fairways.

BARBADOS GOLF CLUB

The Barbados Golf Club in Durants, Christ Church was redesigned by famed architect Ron Kirby in 2000 and has hosted several important tournaments, including the Barbados Open on more than one occasion.

Measuring 6,805 yards, this par 72 features a course rating of 73.5 and a slope of 128, allowing first time golfers to enjoy a scenic round without much frustration. Two lakes come into play here, with the 16th hole considered the most exciting. A par 3, this hole requires golfers to hit the green by daringly crossing a large lake.

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SANDY LANE

Sandy Lane in St. James features three unique courses, all designed by legendary architect Tom Fazio. The Green Monkey, the prize course of the three, measures 7,343 yards cut out from an old limestone quarry.

Significant elevation changes and heavily rolling fairways will challenge even the most skilled golfer. The Country Club course, a par 72 measuring 7,060 yards, features five crystal clear lakes and lush fairways. This course hosted the 2006 World Golf Championships Barbados World Cup. The third course, The Old Nine, is a short 9 hole course measuring 3,345 yards and is ideal for those looking for a scenic and tranquil half-round.

ROCKLEY GOLF CLUB

The Rockley Golf Club in Christ Church is a smaller course compared to the others, as it is only a 9 hole course; however, Rockley features alternative tees for use as a back nine. When playing it twice, the par 70 course measures a short 5,610 yards making it a dream for long ball hitters.

With a friendly course rating of only 68.3 and a slope of 120, Rockley is the most approachable course in Barbados, giving first time golfers a real chance for a fun afternoon.

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HILTON BARBADOS HOTEL

“Even if you have trouble on the course, the beautiful vistas will surely compensate for a poor round.”

ROYAL WESTMORELAND

The Royal Westmoreland is a luxury golf resort that has been ranked No. 31 in the world outside of the United States.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. this 7,045-yard par 72 is perfect for target golfers. The signature hole 12 is a par-3 that features a rather small green resting against a ravine.

Misplaced tee shots will surely find themselves in trouble.

Even if you have trouble on the course, the beautiful vistas will surely compensate for a poor round.

If these resorts don’t tickle your tees, the 5-star Hilton Barbados Hotel, located on the Needham’s Point Peninsula, is just a short drive from multiple courses in the area. Featuring four fine dining restaurants and rooms facing the ocean, the Hilton Barbados is perfect for the whole family.

The young ones can enjoy entertainment in the Kidz Paradise Club, or enjoy a family horseback ride along the beach, sailing, scuba diving and of course golf.

AN OASIS OF CALM AND TRANQUILITY

www.treasurebeachhotel.com

A true gem among luxury boutique hotels in the Caribbean, Treasure Beach is one of the finest in Barbados.

This all suite property is located on one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the West Coast & only minutes away from three of the most stunning golf courses in the Caribbean, Sandy Lane Country Club, Apes Hill & Royal Westmoreland. Suites cluster charmingly in a horseshoe around the freshwater pool with ocean views galore from freshwater to salt are seen from each suite.

AAGR

USGA,RULES

by Tom Beeler

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e watched some golf events recently where it seemed like the Rules of Golf were involved in the outcome more than they should be. Golf Course Superintendents and PGA Professionals work together in order to have their golf courses marked and conditioned to test players games, whether it be the best players in the world or the players at their clubs.

The last thing we want to see is a rules infraction that determines the outcome of any event, including Major Championships or a one day club tournament. Why are the Rules of Golf so complex, so hard to understand? It starts with where we play our game. Unlike baseball, football or soccer fields, our field of play is always different. In order for the game to be fair for all who play it, the Rules of Golf have to encompass all the things that may happen on our very large and different playing fields. Also, think about where the responsibility for playing by the rules falls in the game of golf. Other sports have officials that throw flags or blow whistles when an infraction has taken place.

That doesn’t happen in golf. In most cases, players are calling penalties on themselves.

When is the last time you saw an offensive lineman pull an official aside and tell him that he held a linebacker?

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Here’s a short list of some rules infractions that come to mind. Brian Davis nicks a dead reed in the bunker on his backswing. He brings it to the attention of the official and loses to Jim Furyk. Julie Inkster at the Safeway, bored while waiting on the tee, puts a weighted practice aid on a club and takes a few swings(a television viewer called this one in). She is disqualified. Michele Wie grounded her club in water hazard; In this case she said she was trying to get her balance. Replay lead officials to disagree with her.

And of course, Dustin Johnson in what I have seen described as an “unrecognizable bunker“ grounding his club before his shot. Think about each one of these infractions. Every one of the penalties in these situations were avoidable had the player in question had a better knowledge of the rules and how to proceed dependent on their location or what they were doing. Keep in mind: we are talking about players that play golf for a living, not club players that have an even smaller understanding of the Rules of Golf.

“The governing bodies do a good job of monitoring rules situations and keeping the game fair for everyone.”

I have heard members, players, golf writers and general spectators complain about the rules and how hard they are to understand. My point to all this is that as a group(PGA Professionals, GCSAA Superintendents and Rules Officials) we defend the Rules of Golf for we are now the generation in charge of protecting the history and integrity of our game. The governing bodies do a good job of monitoring rules situations and keeping the game fair for everyone. Situations that are outdated or too penal are now dealt with more quickly and process to change a rule should it be warranted is much more streamlined. So the next time you hear or see something happen in the world of golf that makes you want to believe that there is some unfairness of a rule, think about this. Whether you are a nurse, pharmacist, lawyer, or any job, we all have rules and regulations we have to follow at work. Is it the governing bodies fault if you make a mistake? The rules are there to protect the integrity of the game, so how about we give in and try to learn them already. And yes, I am sorry. Sorry that your handicap just went up three strokes just by reading this.

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AAGR

COURSEREVIEW

The Resorts of Tullymore and St. Ives ocated in Stanwood, Michigan, the Resorts of L Tullymore and St. Ives opened their doors in 2002 to immediate acclaim. Their formula to

become ranked as one of the best resorts in Michigan was simple: great service and great golf, two of my favorite things.

TULLYMORE COURSE

This artistically designed championship quality course features a unique layout that is a treat to play. Designed

by Jim Engh, Tullymore features a crystal clear ravine that meanders throughout the course. This par 72 measures

“The 18th, a challenging 535-yard par 5, is a power hitter’s dream.”

7,250 yards with a difficult course rating of 75 and a daunting slope of 150. Featuring five par 3s and five par 5s, Tullymore’s signature hole is the closer. The 18th, a challenging 535-yard par 5, is a power hitter’s dream.

Making the green in two shouldn’t be a problem, but navigating the sloping green will make sinking an eagle an outside chance.

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ST. IVES COURSE

Designed by Jerry Matthews in 1995, the St. Ives Course combines highlands with glorious wetlands. With water coming into play on 11 holes and elevation changes up to 80 feet on a single hole, as well as sloping fairways, this course is not a walk in the park. Measuring 6,702 yards, this par 72 has a course rating of 73.3 and a slope of 140.

The signature hole, the 14th, is a 429-yard par 4 that features a rather narrow fairway with wetlands cutting it off from the green. A tough approach shot carried over these wetlands is required to be successful here.

If you are considering a weekend retreat or are in search of an area to call home offering timeless natural beauty, unlimited recreational and social activities and lifestyles that are affordable – then come see us!

Tullymore l St. Ives l Canadian Lakes l Central Michigan

AMENITIES

Golf isn’t the only attraction to the Resorts of Tullymore and St. Ives, as the club features four different dining experiences. The Tap Room is a traditional Irish pub and is a great place to have a pint or two while discussing why you’re not shooting three under par. The Tullymore Patio rests along the signature 18th and offers everything you’d want from the Club House. At St. Ives, the Sports Pub and Grille has seven flat-screen TVs with a traditional pub menu to mull over that bunker you landed in. The Patio at St. Ives is a tranquil place to finish off your day, with a view of the putting area and the first tee box.

If Michigan is your destination, don’t overlook this unique golfing experience. The Resorts at Tullymore and St. Ives offer arguably some of the best golf in the state.

L A K E S R E A LT Y

(231) 972-8300

(800) 700-8502

www.cblakes.com

“The Tap Room is a traditional Irish pub and is a great place to have a pint or two while discussing why you’re not shooting three under par.”

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AAGR

CHARLESTON,SC

Golfing at it’s Best outh Carolina is often considered to have the S greatest golf courses in the United States, which is in part due to the rich environment and

beautiful scenery. The city of Charleston and the surrounding area is one of the top destinations, offering several top-quality golf resorts and plenty of variety.

“With 10 holes flanked by the Atlantic Ocean, this Pete and Alice Dye-designed course has extreme wind variations that will demand careful club selection.”

KIAWAH GOLF RESORT

Kiawah Golf Resort on Kiawah Island features one of America’s most challenging courses: the Ocean Course.

With 10 holes flanked by the Atlantic Ocean, this Pete and Alice Dye-designed course has extreme wind variations that will demand careful club selection. In fact, the wind plays such a major role that in some circumstances, golfers are forced to club-up or down as many as three or four clubs. But the wind isn’t the only obstacle. Rolling fairways and greens that run quickly on the Bermuda grass will ultimately test your course management skills.

For anyone wishing to push their skills to the limit, or for a relaxing family vacation, Kiawah is a great option.

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WILD DUNES

Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms features two unique courses: the Harbor and the Links, both designed by respected architect Tom Fazio. The Links, a traditional Scottish design par 72, measures 6,709 yards with stunning views of the Atlantic on the north and east sides, with 10 holes featuring tricky water hazards. The Harbor course, a par 70 measuring 6,359 yards features a ravine that runs through the entire course and comes into play on 11 holes.

Classic, Southern, Memorable

LO 2010 South Carolina Course of the Year

“For anyone wishing to push their skills to the limit, Kiawah is a great option.�

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AAGR

CHARLESTON,SC

“Because of the undulating fairways on Bermuda grass, it can sometimes be difficult to gauge your tee shot.”

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LEGEND OAKS

Summerville’s Legend Oaks is only 30 minutes from Charleston and is characterized by mature oak trees and majestic pines. This championship-quality course measures just under 7,000 yards and is a treat for both scratch golfers and rookies alike, providing unique challenges for both. The club also prides itself on its environmental conservation, respecting the ecosystem and the animals that inhabit the area.

COOSAW CREEK

Located in North Charleston, Coosaw Creek is a semiprivate club designed by architect Arthur Hills. The 18 hole course covers scenic wetlands with mature oak and pine trees, a South Carolina signature. This par 71 measures 6,593 yards with a course rating of 71.6 and a slope of 133. Because of the undulating fairways on Bermuda grass, it can sometimes be difficult to gauge your tee shot. However, even drives that miss the fairways can easily be salvaged. That is, if you manage to avoid the thick woodlands that surround the fairways.

Charleston Sophistication with

Island Charm

Beautiful Courtyard Area With: • Pool • Hot Tub • Fire Pit • Hotel Lobby Bar & Library • Complimentary Internet Access Throughout

Charleston~Mt. Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

843.284.0900

www.marriott.com/chscm

AAGR

STAFFPICKS AllAboutGolf Resorts picks four drivers that will draw a crowd on the tee box.

NIKE SQ MACHSPEED www.nike.com/nikegolf

Nike has long been a leader in the design of golf clubs, and the popular sports brand continues their tradition with the SQ MACHSPEED Black Driver. The SQ MACHSPEED Black Driver will allow you to increase your swing speed while limiting your chances of a slice.

“The oversized club face makes it a cinch to hit and the face itself is designed to limit drag by changing the air flow around the head which reduces drag on your swing.”

The oversized club face makes it a cinch to hit and the face itself is designed to limit drag by changing the air flow around the head which reduces drag on your swing.

Once you pick up the driver, you will notice that the overall feel of the SQ Machspeed is unmistakably comfortable with a weight distribution that provides a relaxed grip and a natural swing. The SQ MACHSPEED has a great feel and is built for every type of golfer, especially those who are looking for more control and accuracy from the tees.

TAYLORMADE R11 www.taylormadegolf.com

The new R11 features several key differences from the previous R9 series, most notably the Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) which allows for a two degree adjustment to the club’s face without sacrificing your loft. Along with the ASP technology, the new R11 features a smaller club head and patented Flight Control Technology (FCT). This allows golfers to adjust the angle of their launch by a degree, promoting an increased loft for greater distance. The club has eight different FCT positions that can be adjusted in 0.5 degree increments. In addition, the R11 also features Moveable Weight Technology (MWT) which allows you to change the center of gravity. Oh and did I mention it’s white?

“The new R11 features several key differences from the previous R9 series, most notably the Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) which allows for a two degree adjustment to the clubs face without sacrificing your loft.”

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CALLAWAY RAZR www.calliwaygolf.com

Featuring forged composite technology and co-developed with famed sports car manufacturer Lamborghini, the Callaway RAZR Hawk will surely increase your driving distance without sacrificing accuracy or control.

According to recent testing, the Callaway RAZR Hawk will on average, increase your driving distance by an astonishing 20 yards. However, unlike other drivers that boast increased power, the RAZR Hawk does not sacrifice accuracy in order to hit the long ball. Even slightly missed shots will be overlooked thanks to the added yardage you will receive. But miss hits are few and far between due to the club face design; even if you strike the ball on the heel or the toe, the RAZR Hawk is quite forgiving.

In terms of feel, the RAZR Hawk is much more stable compared to previous Callaway drivers, including the R9 series. And the design of the club is quite pleasing to the eye. A sleek black finish gives it that modern touch while red arrows along the shaft help you to align your shots at the tee.

“According to recent testing, the Callaway RAZR Hawk will on average, increase your driving distance by an astonishing 20 yards.”

TITLEIST 910D2 www.titleist.com

In the past higher handicappers were told to stay away from Titleist drivers because they were not as forgiving as some of the other products on the market. With Titleist entering the adjustable driver market this season with the 910D2 drivers, that thought process has changed significantly. With a 15 percent larger maximum ball speed area, the 910D2 is arguably Titleist’s most forgiving driver. The Surefit technology allows you to adjust your loft independent of the lie, which means you can adjust your ball s trajectory without any concern about a left-right variance.

The driver comes with an optional weight kit, allowing you to change the weight of the head to compensate for your unique swing type. With over 20 different shaft options (including Aldila RIP, Project X Tour Issue, Diamana Kai’li, and Diamana Ilima) and four different loft options (8.75, 9.5, 10.25 and 11 degrees) the 910D2 is one of the most customizable drivers on the market.

“The driver comes with an optional weight kit, allowing you to change the weight of the head to compensate for your unique swing type.”

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Olde Stonewall

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by Marino Parasrenzo

No golf club can be all things to all golfers, but Olde Stonewall comes awfully close.

If you like muscle in your golf course, Olde Stonewall is an Olympic lifter. If you like subtlety, it whispers. If you like a course to be clever, Olde Stonewall can be downright treacherous. The fairways are wide enough to be forgiving, but they’re not a free pass, and the daunting fescue grass awaits the careless. About 90 bunkers dot the landscape, some of them too deep to see out of. If greens should be fast and undulating to be a proper test, then it would take a skillful golfer to earn a C-plus on them. All this and spellbinding beauty. Olde Stonewall is immaculately groomed.

What Olde Stonewall fails at is being easy. It has been acclaimed by national publications as one of the finest daily fee courses in the country ever since it opened in 1999. It is the number one public golf course in Pennsylvania and among the top 50 public courses in the United States by Golf Digest, It earned that reputation and it hasn’t lost its edge.

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Olde Stonewall, a creation of the famed golf course architecture team of Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, is on Route 65, just outside Ellwood City, less than an hour north of Pittsburgh and 40 minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport. You’re there when you see one of the most striking clubhouses anywhere, a lofty castle sitting just beyond the huge stones of the outer wall. Thousands more wind through the course, giving it its name.

“Notable courses are known for heroic holes, and Olde Stonewall has more than its share.”

Olde Stonewall has problems for everybody – water, sand, trees, ravines.

It’s essentially two different courses. The front nine, sitting mostly along the Connoquenessing Creek, is comparatively flat. The back nine is draped over wooded hills, offering sweeping views and forced carries. The course measures a hefty 7,103 yards from the back (gray) tees, and the raw figures tell the tale: a par of 70, a rating of 74.3 and a slope of 147. Each hole has a set of five tees, bringing the course within everybody’s reach.

“Each hole has a set of five tees, bringing the course within everybody’s reach.”

AAGR

COURSEREVIEW

O

lde Stonewall has the unusual configuration of two par 5s, both on the front nine, and back-to-back par 3s, the 14th and 15th, a dictate of topography much like the 15th and 16th at Alister Mackenzie’s Cypress Point in California.

Notable courses are known for heroic holes, and Olde Stonewall has more than its share. To name just three: the par 4 10th, the No. 1 handicap hole, a grind at 463 yards; No. 4, a watery par 4 that calls for a strong tee shot and a delicate second to a peninsula green,

and most of all the par 4 16th. Like the wickedest rollercoaster, the 16th has to be tried at least once from the soaring top shelf, a breathtaking eagle’s nest of a tee perched high up on a hillside, at the edge of a yawning ravine, overlooking the entire area.

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Olde Stonewall For all of Olde Stonewall’s muscle, the most entertaining collection of golf problems might rest at No. 2, an innocent-looking 392-yard, downhill par 4 with a sharp dogleg behind the trees to the right. It could be a birdie hole for those long enough and bold enough to try to carry the trees.

The fairway is safer, except you have to play to the right, left or short of the pot bunker in the middle, just at the elbow. Then it’s a downhill approach to a bunkered green, but the green slopes away.

The 18th is almost a relief, a straightaway par 4, a 481-yard bully that ends up at the castle clubhouse evoking images of Elizabethan England, home to suits of armor, shields, weaponry, tapestries, and the quiet dark paneling of Shakespeare’s Restaurant & Pub.

“The back nine is draped over wooded hills, offering sweeping views and forced carries.”

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AAGR

CAR FOR THE

COURSE

2011 BUICK

REGAL TURBO WORDS: RODNEY BURRELL PICS: TODD KAPPELT

What’s the first thing that pops into your head when I say the word “Buick”?

For me, I have a visual of a 75ish person driving down the highway at a blistering pace of…let’s say about 45 mph. Sometimes all I can see are two hands on the steering wheel. I watch and shake my head. And that’s what Buick has become, the flagship model for the Canasta and shuffleboard players of America.

Even with our old buddy Tiger Woods endorsing the brand for years, it had yet to appeal to a more vibrant demographic.

That’s until now. The 2011 Buick Regal Turbo provides a jolt of energy into the veins of the youthful and makes a move in the right direction to shift directions and appeal to car buyers below the age of 55.

I had the pleasure of taking the Regal out for a week on a journey to New York and New Jersey. Nothing like 800 miles or so to get to know your car.

PERFORMANCE I was highly impressed with the BRT’s midrange power. It had a great cruising speed at 85-90 mph; Perfect for highway driving. Low-end acceleration was not spectacular and the turbo lag was pretty heavy, but once it was up and going, it was a smooth operator. Top end acceleration was not out of this world, but respectable. I hit the 120+mark, but the BRT’s comfort zone is definitely 85.

From a practicality standpoint, it does anything you ask it to. It has plenty of power for the daily commute. Merging into traffic is a breeze, and a little funny, because people aren’t expecting a Buick to have that kind of pull. If you don’t have to drive a long distance for work, you might be taking a few extra trips around the block.

HANDLING I wasn’t thoroughly impressed with the Sport and Touring electronic adjustments, but the handling was very responsive in long sweepers. Traffic handling was great as well, no problems getting where I need to go.

Although, coming out of turns, the turbo lag really hampered the response time.

ERGONOMICS As I tinkered through the interior of the BRT, a couple things stuck out.

HIGH POINTS Loved the navigation system. Very intuitive, and didn’t make me feel like a dumb ass when I went the wrong way. No “recalculating” verbiage.

Radio system was phenomenal. Great sound and clarity.

The Bluetooth integration system was flawless. I also appreciated when a call came in how the air conditioning reduced sound and the radio turned itself down.

LOW POINTS I couldn’t find the trunk button for the life of me, and now I know why. There is no trunk button inside the BRT. The engineers at GM obviously had a round table meeting with Harry Potter and decided that it was better not to have a way to open the trunk other than to use the trunk button on the key or (my favorite) fondle the key fob and then rub on the back of the trunk. It’s magically weird.

The steering wheel control for the radio was a little awkward.

The driver side mirror was just painful. I had to readjust it every 5 minutes.

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AAGR

CAR FOR THE

COURSE COMFORT No complaints from this guy. I sat in this car for about 12 hours. It was a dream. The seats were well-constructed and firm, but not too firm. Just aggressive enough to make track riding bearable, but comfortable enough to take a road trip, which I did.

GOLF BAG RATING Definitely enough space to fit a few golf bags in the trunk. Golf bag rating: Three out of four.

QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Overall, I was impressed. It didn’t seem like a Buick inside, or at least what one would perceive a Buick to be. A very well appointed interior definitely makes for an enjoyable ride. The lines and design were well crafted with purpose, and the car was solid. Not too solid, like an SUV. It still had the subtle undertones of a gentle luxury tourer, with some serious aggressive tendencies.

IMPRESSIONS The BRT is definitely a sleeper in today’s luxury market. It offers performance, usability, and an aggressively youthful profile that appeals to a wide range of automotive enthusiasts. My suggestion?

Take one for a ride and just let it blow your mind. Don’t look at the BRT as something to take to a night out with the girls playing bridge, but for the new generation of drivers that want comfort and performance without breaking the bank. With a mid-30’s price tag, it’s sure not to disappoint. Take it to opera, or to the track. Either way, you’ll have a very un-Buick like experience.

“It offers performance, usability, and an aggressively youthful profile that appeals to a wide range of automotive enthusiasts.”

PARTING SHOT As I was testing the BRT on the Turnpike, I made the acquaintance of a highway patrolman, let’s call him, Officer George. Well, folks, George was more than polite, and I explained that I was a professional driver testing this unit for the sake of the entire automotive community. Somebody might buy this car as a result of my ability to articulate how it handles at above 90mph+++. He bought it a little, and said, “Well, it seems to be running pretty good to me.” Clever George, very clever. Yes, I still got a ticket.

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9:06 a.m. |

The 18th Hole

Yo u r e a l i z e i t i s n ’t w h e t h e r y o u win or lose but where you play the game.

If you love golf, you’ll love golfing in West Virginia.

Our world-class courses feature breathtaking natural beauty as a backdrop, so your game will be just as inspiring as it is challenging. And thanks to our luxurious mountain resorts and gracious hospitality, your golfing getaway will be without comparison.

WVTOURISM.COM 800-225-5982

Whe re is you r West Virgin ia?