4ISSUE|5VOLUME|2022AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022-2023 TRAVEL PLANNER Presented by Alliance Aviation AMERICA’S NEXT GREAT GOLF DESTINATION BIG CEDAR LODGE COURSES BY WOODS, NICKLAUS, PALMER, WATSON, PLAYER, FAZIO AND COORE & CREN SHAW +
Soon after the final putt dropped at Pine Needles, thoughts turned to the area’s next national championship, the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2. It will be one of five U.S. Open Championships in the area by 2047. Oh, by the way, the USGA staged its inaugural U.S. Adaptive Open in July at Pinehurst No. 6 and the event will return next year as well. All of which is part of the USGA’s historic move to establish its second home in Pinehurst. In an effort to expand its impact in golf and extend its mission to champion and advance the game, the USGA is in the midst of constructing “Golf House Pinehurst,” a six-acre campus that will be completed by the end of 2023 and will include a new equipment-testing facility, innovation hub, museum and visitor center, and offices housing 50 full-time USGA staff members.
The Home Americanof Golf No Resting on Laurels Around
The USGA Experience will present an immersive view of golf and the USGA’s work to unify, showcase, govern and advance the game. The Science of Golf and Championship galleries will feature interactive multimedia displays that incorporate augmented reality, interactive touch screens, sculptures and trophies. The USGA Golf Museum Special Exhibitions will uncover the organization’s deep collection of golf artifacts – the most comprehensive collection in the world.
Calling these “the best of times” around the Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area of North Carolina might seem like it’s saying a lot, but sometimes the shoe simply fits. Just take a look at everything that is currently happening around the Home of American Golf.
The USGA’s Research and Test Center will be the only one of its kind in North America solely dedicated to testing golf balls and clubs for conformance to the Rules of Golf. At the USGA Shop, golfers will be able to purchase various products with the USGA championship logo of their choice as well as exhibit-related specialty items.
Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club recently celebrated its fourth U.S. Women’s Open and enjoyed rousing success, crowning another worthy champion in world No. 4-ranked Minjee Lee. The Australian joined her mentor, 2001 champion Karrie Webb, along with Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam and Cristie Kerr on the Pine Needles Wall of Champions.
The USGA is also partnering with Pinehurst Resort to construct an outdoor testing pavilion and STEM education space near the resort’s main practice facility, including a mechanical golfer and ball launcher to demonstrate and evaluate golf ball aerodynamics.
By Brad King
Pinehurst Resort has reportedly been planning to announce Pinehurst No. 10 at some point soon, while a new distillery and a new hotel are also on the drawing board for the area.
The best of times in the Home of American Golf? That time is now.
HomeofGolf.com Scan Here for Package Deals
Meanwhile, in other golf news around the Sandhills, the 2023 Atlantic Coast Conference Men’s Championship will be contested at The Country Club of North Carolina’s Dogwood Course. CCNC has a long history of hosting elite golf championships, including the U.S. Amateur, U.S. Girls and Boys Junior Championships, Southern Amateur and North Carolina Amateur.
For fans of the latest in golf technology, Talamore Resort has recently debuted its Toptracer Range. Talamore guests can experience interactive golf entertainment with the transformation of the Talamore’s driving range into a facility powered by Toptracer Range technology. In addition, the entire Talamore practice range has been upgraded and a new, 15,000-squarefoot putting course is being installed between the driving range and the 10th tee boxes that is expected to open in early fall.
Then came the even-more-recent July news that the World Golf Hall of Fame will relocate its physical presence on display from St. Augustine, Florida, to Pinehurst. Building on their longstanding partnership and shared passion to elevate the stories of golf’s legends, the USGA and the World Golf Hall of Fame will create a new visitor experience at the Golf House Pinehurst campus, opening in Additionally,2024.World Golf Hall of Fame induction ceremonies will be held in Pinehurst in 2024 and 2029, to coincide with the 124th U.S. Open on Pinehurst No. 2 (2024), and the return of back-to-back U.S. Women’s Open Presented by ProMedica and U.S. Open Championships, also on Course No. 2 (2029). Many of the most cherished items in the Hall of Fame’s existing collection will be relocated to Pinehurst for the creation of a new Hall of Fame locker room, which will come to life on the second floor of the USGA Experience building. The result will be a seamless visitor journey from the USGA Experience galleries on the first floor to the second, showcasing the incredible talents of golf’s many contributors and their lasting impact on the game.
In other scuttlebutt, the group that owns Pines Needles, Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club and that recently renovated Southern Pines Golf Club are reportedly planning to build a similar type of large practice putting green, as well as a handful of new cottages at Southern Pines GC.
Three incredible courses. One breathtaking location. Adds up to an experience you’ll never forget.
Three masterpieces from Bill Coore/Ben Crenshaw, Tom Doak and Gil Hanse/Jim Wagner. All in the country’s Top 50. All unlike anything you’ve ever seen—or played.
streamsongresort.com • 855-436-0088 • A KemperSports-managed resort in central Florida.
PXG CLUBS ARE BACKED BY OUR NO-QUESTIONS-ASKED, 60-DAY 100% MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE. NOBODY MAKES GOLF CLUBS THE WAY WE DO. PERIOD.® PXG clubs are only sold direct by PXG. PXG.COM | 844.PLAY.PXG has arrived Our all-new GEN5 Clubs are a master class in PXG style, performance, and forgiveness. With explosive distance, laser-like accuracy, and outstanding mishit performance, just one swing and you’ll agree—we killed it with these sticks. Step up to GEN5 and put Kaboom Baby! on your side today.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 5 EVERYTHING YOU WANT In A Launch Monitor and Simulator a Improve your game with a variety of Game Improvement features Skills A ssessment, Bag Mapping, Practice Greens and more a Practice or Play on your terms, rain or shine, 365 days a year! a Accuracy multiple data points including Ball Speed, Launch Angle, BackSpin, Side Spin and Carry Distance a Play the world’s most famous courses from the comfort of your own home! a Fun Challenges Closest to the Pin, Long Drive and Target Practice a All of this at a price far below the alternatives! Experience SkyTrak at WWW.SKYTRAKGOLF.COM COURSE PLAYBAG MAPPING SKILLS ASSESMENT Play a variety of world famous, championship courses in stunning HD Set up to 10 target distances and learn your handicapdynamic Track dispersion and distances with each club
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 7 ON THE RANGE Golf & Gambling by Ed Travis INSIDE DESTINATIONS CoursesBucket-List by Alice & Danny Scott 18 AMERICA’S NEXT GREAT GOLF DESTINATION Big Cedar Lodge features courses designed by: Woods, Nicklaus, Palmer, Watson, Player, Fazio and Coore & Crenshaw COVER STORY 12 AUGUST • SEPTEMBER 2022 VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 4 DESTINATIONS AwaitsScotland by David DeSmith 52 28 SAVE THE DATE NORTHEAST GOLF SHOW March 17-19, 2023 Gillette Stadium — Foxboro, MA NortheastGolfShow.com
8 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF 44 RESORT WEAR Essentials for EveryVacationGolf FASHION 58 ROSS’S RULES Is Rivalrythe Over? 55 UNPLUGGEDMOLORI U.S. LocalGlobalOpen:Event,impact BEST IN GOLF Top Courses to Play in New England & Upstate New York 41 PRO SHOP Bags & Carts by Greg Sampson 35 SAVE THE DATE GOLFNORTHEASTSHOW March 17-19, 2023 Gillette Stadium — Foxboro, MA NortheastGolfShow.com
CranberryValley.Golf508-430-5234Harwich,MA
PLAY. PRACTICE. REPEAT.
Award Winning Cape Cod Golf Destination
The MovementYouth FROM THE EDITOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Just 10 years ago in 2012, the only player in the “Top 10 Golf World Ranking” under 30 years old was Rory McElroy; the average age of all players was 30 years old. Today in 2022, remarkably the only player ranking over 30 years old is also Rory McElroy; the average age of all players today is only 27 years old. In the last 3 years, the “Young Guns” have won 75% of all Major Events. They are younger, stronger, more talented and ready to win. Year over year wins on the PGA Tour for these younger players continue to grow. Much like all other professional sports, golf which has grown immensely in popularity now has a much larger seeding system. While ball flight is longer and equipment more advanced, it is fitness, training and professional player management that is making the most impact and creating more successful players.
T IS UNDERSTATEMENTAN to say professional golf has become a young man’s game. There are more talented young players throughout the world in professional golf than at any time in history. The 8 to 9-win seasons of Hogan, Woods, Singh, Snead, Sarazen, Palmer, Miller, and others were amazing for golf. Byron Nelson’s 18 wins in 1945 were incredible and Vijay Singh won 22 times on the PGA Tour after he turned 40 years old breaking Sam Snead’s age-old record. There is simply too much talent every week on the tour to see these trends again; the youth movement has arrived, and it looks like it’s here to stay.
I
On another note, the U.S. Open in Brookline Massachusetts was one of the most historical golf events in greater Boston in many years. The USGA did a wonderful job at The Country Club in Brookline creating a spectacular challenge for the field and a great viewing experience for the fans. I was at the Media Day at The Country Club in 2013 and met Matt Fitzpatrick and his brother Alex who was only 14 at the time; they did a great job together in 2013 capturing the U.S. Amateur. It was so amazing to see them together once again 9 years later winning the 121st U.S. Open at The Country Club this year. Timothy R. Branco Editor, Northeast Golf MovementYouth ... looks like it’s here to stay.”
10 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Submit Your News & More at: www.Northeast.Golf/Submit “The
© 2022 Home Golf Lifestyle Media LLC. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The articles appearing within this publication reflect the opinion of their respective authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Editor Timothy R. tim@hglmedia.comBranco Creative Director Katrina T. Lallier Editorial Bill FormerlyHenryTimothyBalesBrancoDavidDeSmithLeighMacKayPaulMignosaJohnMoloriJackRossBarbaraRowellGregSampsonAliceScottDannyScottEdTravisWallmeyerMattWardPhilWerzNewEnglanddot Media & New England Publsihing Group CEO/Managing Partner Richardrich@hglmedia.comCastiglione CMO/Managing Partner Greg greg@hglmedia.comSampson Marketing Tony Pimentel tony@hglmedia.com Multimedia Kat kat@hglmedia.comMottram Customer Service Jeanne Castiglione Brittany custserv@hglmedia.comMastroianni For Editorial & Requests:Advertising Editorial: 774.930.1623 - Tim Branco Advertising: 757.621.7494 - Greg Sampson Shows: 508.942.7340 - Rich Castiglione Subscriptions $29.99 annually for 6 subscriptions@hglmedia.comissues Published by: • Find New Golfing Partners • Defy and Take on Challenges • Organize Golf Rounds • Enter Contests • Enjoy & Share More About Your Games • 100% Private & Secure • Free Trial & Expanded Membership Because playing golf is not primarily about sport or competition, it is about spending quality time with people who share the same passions for the entire golf experience as you do.
COVER STORY BIG CEDAR LODGE LODGECEDARBIG Payne’s Valley
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 13
Located deep within the Ozark Mountains of Missouri lies an unexpected destination that just might be the next big thing in golf. Big Cedar Lodge, both a nature enthusiast and sportsman’s dream escape, stretches along the shores of Table Rock Lake, and has long been hailed as America’s premier wilderness resort.
Over the years, Big Cedar Lodge has greatly expanded its offer ings but Morris’ vision to create a wilderness resort as a place where conservation and family traditions come together has re mained at the heart of the resort’s mission.
Within moments of entering the property, it is easy to see that nature was the muse behind the resort’s design. A winding entry road takes you deep within the forested hills of the Ozarks call ing you to slow down and take in the surrounding beauty, as the road travels over trickling water crossings showcasing stunning vistas. As you take your last turn, the scene opens to reveal a hidden oasis: secluded cabins tucked into the hillside, rustic lodges that blend seamlessly into their wooded backdrop, a charming chapel reminiscent of your grandparent’s country church and a collection of restaurants and activities that are thoughtfully placed to not disrupt of the natural splendor of the Overland. the years, Big Cedar Lodge has further expanded its com CEDAR LODGE AMERICA’S NEXT BIG GOLF DESTINATION
COVER STORY BIG
Ozarks National
Johnny Morris, noted conservationist and founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, purchased Big Cedar Lodge in 1987 with the intent of creating a place for families to reconnect with nature.
Mountain Top by Gary Player
Through these masterful collaborations, no detail has been spared in creating a multi-course destination that beautifully embraces the natural landscape with exposed rock croppings, waterfalls and stunning Ozark Mountain views. Recently named the “#1 Golf Resort for Families” by GOLF Magazine, each of the Big Cedar courses artfully showcases designs to welcome golfers of all different skill levels, providing breathtaking views with every shot.
Buffalo Ridge Springs by Tom Fazio Matching the beauty of Top of the Rock is the Tom Fazio-de signed Buffalo Ridge Springs Course (formerly Branson Creek Golf Club). Acclaimed as one of the region’s top golf courses, Buffalo Ridge has been transformed by visionary Johnny Morris and renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio. Adding new ap proaches, water features and bunkers, Morris and Fazio have redesigned the course layout to bring players in close contact with nature, native grasses and free-ranging bison from nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. The course has been rated the #1 Public Course in Missouri by Golf Magazine and holds a Golf Digest rating of 4.5 stars out of 5.
COVER STORY BIG CEDAR LODGE
14 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF mitment to connecting people with the great outdoors by rede fining golf in the Ozarks. Five distinct courses are a vision of Morris and five of the biggest names in golf: Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Gary Player, Coore & Crenshaw and Tiger Woods.
Top the Rock
of
World Golf Hall of Famer Gary Player and Johnny Morris teamed up to create a world-class, family-friendly golf course that
Top of the Rock by Jack Nicklaus Top of the Rock, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, is the first-ever Par-3 course included in a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event, and features nature and golf at its finest. Perched high above Table Rock Lake, the peaceful waterfalls, wandering creeks, bass-filled ponds and pristine lakes of Top of the Rock complete a true celebration of nature, the Ozarks and the game of golf.
opened at Big Cedar Lodge in August 2017. The 13-hole course was designed to bring a more accessible experience to families, juniors and golfers who are learning the game as it routes through unforgettable rock formations and includes some of the best vistas in the region.
COVER STORY
The golf course architect team of Coore & Crenshaw share Johnny Morris’ passion and appreciation for nature and con servation, making Ozarks National a striking display for the senses and a fitting tribute to the Ozarks region. The course is designed to test avid players and golf travelers from around the country and provide the perfect compliment to the exist ing 18-hole layout at Buffalo Ridge Springs. It was recently named the “Best New Public Course in America” by Golf Di gest and serves as a gateway to the Ozarks National Forest, cementing Big Cedar Lodge as America’s next great golf des tination.
Payne’s Valley by Tiger Woods & TGR Design
BIG CEDAR LODGE
Top: Buffalo Ridge Bottom: Payne’s Valley Right: Mountain Top The 488-yard, par-4 1st hole
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 15
Ozarks National by Coore & Crenshaw
Named in honor of the late Payne Stewart, the new Payne’s Val ley golf course is the first fully public-access course in the world completed by Tiger Woods’ design firm TGR Design. A partner ship between Johnny Morris, Tiger Woods and the Payne Stewart Family, the course showcases the region’s natural beauty through a 19-hole championship course.
ONE OF A KIND 1, 1 0 0 A C R E F L O R |SSOCOGSNOMAC2HPIHIPLFURE4RESTAURANTS | THREE ISLAND GREENS | 85 FOOT ELEVATIONS | FITNESS CENTER Central Florida N.W. of Orlando | MissionInnResort.com 800.874.9053 | Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida It’s All Here!
R I DA GOLF DESTINATION RESORT | SPA | 176 DELUXE GUEST ROOMS | MARINA & BOAT RENTAL | BIKEPATHS|WALKINGTRAILS|TENNIS&PICKLEBALL PLENTY TO DO BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER YOUR VISIT Voted #1 in Orlando by Golf Channel’s Golf Advisors, Voted #3 in Orlando by Money Inc. During your visit relax, refresh and recharge with all the resort amenities - golf, spa, billiards & card room, four on-site restaurants/bars, fire pits, trap and skeet, tennis, pickleball, hydro spa, boating rentals or fishing, hiking & bicycling, electric & pedal bicycles, poolside swim. Join us for our Sunday Champagne Brunch Buffet. 35 minutes Northwest of Orlando | MissionInnResort.com | Tee Times for individuals or golf groups 352-324-3885
The New Spectacular Must-do Destinations
The Magnificent Ten championship courses in Upper Michigan makes this a summer mecca for golfers or anyone who wants to tag along and stay at one of the three stunning resorts. The Highlands is an alpine wonder while Boyne Mountain Resort has several lofty lodges including the largest spa in Michigan and both have chair lifts to ride and hike the summits. The ritzy Inn at Bay
BY ALICE & DANNY SCOTT Not Your Father’s Golf Vacation Bucket List
18 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
PENT-UP WANDERLUST AND LOVE for golf make travel planning even more exciting. Not to diss your father’s old bucket list which includes the beloved Pebble Beach and Pinehurst, but here are some newer golf resort destinations that merit your attention.
Boyne SeveralGolfLocations in Michigan
Big Cedar Ridgedale,LodgeMO
www.bandondunesgolf.com
Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, salutes nature with a grand, continually evolving plan. Big Cedar Golf comprises half of Branson, Missouri’s ten public courses including Tiger Woods’ new Payne’s Valley Course which concludes with an exhilarating cavern tour to the top of the mountain. Three championship courses, Ozark National, Buffalo Ridge and Top of the Rock have hosted PGA events. This premier wilderness resort is set above Table Rock Lake in the Ozarks with luxe accommodations, dining, activities galore, and the largest museum of native artifacts in the world. Plus, Hollywood style entertainment is still a force of nature in downtown Branson. www.bigcedar.com
In alphabetical order: Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Bandon, OR On the remote southeastern coast of Oregon, owner Mike Keiser opened the Bandon Dunes Course by Scotsman David McLay Kidd in 1999. He hasn’t stopped since. Now with a total of six ocean links courses and more planned, Bandon is often praised higher than Pebble Beach at a fraction of the price. Every course is a rigorous walk enriched with natural dune bunkers, monolithic boulders, and dramatic ocean cliffs. A coastal round includes a symphony of sea lions barking, waves crashing and whistling wind. Secluded accommodations provide a respite after golf. See a flyover of every hole online.
TPC Danzante Bay at the Islands of Loreto, Mexico
MUST-PLAYDESTINATIONSCOURSES
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 19 Harbor, Autograph Collection stands guard on the northern shore of the Great Lake Michigan which seems more like an ocean on breezy days. Activities are limitless and transformation is constant at Boyne.
www.cabotcapebreton.com
www.erinhills.com Harbor Shores Golf Club Benton Harbor, MI Environmental restoration makes the only Jack Nicklaus Course in Michigan a historical achievement. Built in 2010, and host to the Senior PGA Championship presented by Kitchen Aid, the front nine routing culminates with an elevated green overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan. The back nine traverses
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Big Cedar Lodge Cabot Cape Breton
Cabot Cape Breton Inverness, Nova Scotia In Nova Scotia, or New Scotland, Coore & Crenshaw’s new Cabot Cliffs Course opened to an array of “Best in the World” categories. Golfers see the Atlantic from every hole. The masterpiece par 3 jutting over steep gypsum rocks is one of the most picturesque ever. It is as intimidating as it is beautiful. Rooms at Cabot Lodge are distinguished by golf truisms on the doors while floor to ceiling windows face the original Links Course and the sea beside it. Stroll the beach or swim in the warmest waters north of the Carolinas.
MUST-PLAYDESTINATIONSCOURSES
www.boynegolf.com
Destination Kohler Kohler, WI Herb Kohler’s stamp equates to quality. The American Club’s original 1918 dormitory was transformed into a five-star, fivediamond destination hotel. The Inn on Woodlake has its own beach, and the Cabin Collection bonds groups of golfers or families. Whistling Straits’ Straits and Irish courses along the coastline of Lake Michigan mimic Irish sea links. This is the site of six majors and the historic 2020 Ryder Cup victory for the US team. The Black Wolf Run golf complex has two more 18s, River and Meadow Valley, plus a 10-hole short course, The Baths, which pays tribute to Kohler’s bathroom fixtures’ success.
Boyne Golf Destination Kohler Erin Hills
www.destinationkohler.com Erin Erin,HillsWI In Erin, Wisconsin, Erin Hills hit the golf industry radar by hosting the U.S. Open Championship in 2017. Designed in 2010, it was in trouble until Andy Ziegler bought it and agreed to make all the USGA changes required to hold that U.S. Open. This entailed designers Hurdzan/Fry and Ron Whitten changing some greens, adding and subtracting bunkers and eliminating blind spots. The result is an enviable course, 50 minutes from the Milwaukee airport, two hours from Chicago and 60 minutes from Destination Kohler. Guests appreciate accommodations in the Lodge or in charming cottages.
Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort is all-inclusive, exclusively for adults, and permits private access to Jack Nicklaus’ stunning Quivira Golf Course along the beach. Every hole is spectacular. The memorable par 4, 5th hole has a postage stamp green far
www.pronghornresort.com
www.hsbresort.com
Nemacolin Quivira Los Cabos Sand Valley
Horseshoe Bay Resort
Harbor Shores Golf Club
Quivira Los Cabos Baja California Sur, Mexico
Farmington,Nemacolin PA Joe Hardy bought property for his daughter Maggie to fish on and together they have created a luxury wilderness retreat like no other. She had Pete Dye create Shepherd’s Rock Course in 2017 to honor her dad and renovated the original Mystic Rock Course for superb routings. Accommodations are over the top at the Chateau and Falling Rock hotels with plans to enhance The Lodge. The Peak adventure center is the latest addition to the southern Pennsylvania resort that has something for everyone – Spa, Holistic Healing Center, Wildlife Safari, exquisite cuisine, $50m of eclectic art and much more.
Pronghorn Resort
20 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF heavy wooded lowlands and follows the banks of the Pee River. Stay in a golfer’s dream villa by the first tees or at Harbor Shores Inn, located at the Marina. The Grille at Harbor Shores in the clubhouse serves breakfast to dinner with fine wines or cocktails and this kitchen needs no aid.
Pronghorn Resort Bend, OR Play high desert golf in Oregon with expansive views on two beautiful courses. The Tom Fazio Championship Course has a unique par 3 8th hole with a 45-foot canyon and exposed lava tube. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course incorporates more ancient lava rock ridges and outcroppings among juniper trees. Both feature magnificent vistas of the Cascade Mountains as does the new Huntington Lodge. Relish the pool, spa and fine dining or explore downtown Bend, known as the Everything Town.
Horseshoe Bay Resort
MUST-PLAYDESTINATIONSCOURSES
www.nemacolin.com
Horseshoe Bay, TX HSB is solid as a rock with four courses aptly named Slick Rock, Ram Rock, Summit Rock and Apple Rock designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The new Cap Rock clubhouse which garnered 2021 Clubhouse of the Year award offers panoramic views of Texas Hill Country and Lake LBJ. Jack Nicklaus’ Summit Rock is a private course, but, available to select guests of HSB. The Whitewater putting course incorporates 56 sand traps, waterfalls, and a dogleg fairway. Enjoy lakefront accommodations, rent a boat at the full-service marina, lounge bayside, and indulge in the spa or the basalt dark rock jacuzzi, the largest in Texas.
www.harborshoresresort.com
www.sandvalley.com
www.quiviraloscabos.com
The Resort at Pelican Hills
MUST-PLAYDESTINATIONSCOURSES Resort
TPC Danzante Bay at the Islands of Loreto, BajaMexicoCalifornia Sur, Mexico Rees Jones carved a spectacular course through the desert canyons overlooking the Sea of Cortez, including the now famed cliffside number 17, par 3. The all-inclusive Villa Del Palmar Resort sits on a quiet beach with kayaks and paddleboards or rented cruises to explore the waters that Jacques Cousteau calls the “Aquarium of the World.”
The Resort at Pelican Hills Newport Coast, CA Since 2008 grandiosity is balanced with serenity emanating from Palladian architecture and décor with an elevated view of the Pacific Ocean from almost every resort angle. At least a glimpse of ocean is seen from all 36 holes on Tom Fazio’s courses which are perhaps his most fabulous. After golf, relax by the largest circular pool in the world or relish the Spa where Roman soaking tubs invite entry under a barrelvaulted ceiling. Chefs at all the restaurants thrill guests and locals in one of the most affluent zip codes of southern California.
www.pelicanhill.com
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 21 below the elevated tees projecting out over the water. The Golden Bear is designing his second 18 on the Land’s End Site because this is one of his all-time favorite places. Guests agree and after golf they might laze by the pool, on the beach, in the spa or shuttle to Cabo San Lucas and four other Pueblo Bonito resorts where dining is divine in all.
Mike Keiser is back on the bucket list with his third Dream Golf destination added to Bandon Dunes and Cabot Links. New in 2017, three courses were modeled after the Heathland Golf Courses of London - Sand Valley and Mammoth Dunes by David McLay Kidd and the Sandbox, a unique 17-hole Par-3 course designed by Coore & Crenshaw. In central Wisconsin, this is “golf as it was meant to be.” Travelers may also swim or fish on Lake Leopold and choose from elegant lodge rooms, cottages, and suites.
Streamstrong Golf
Streamsong Golf Resort
www.tpcdanzantebay.com
Sand Nekoosa,ValleyWI
www.streamsongresort.com
Choose from four restaurants with global menus and luxuriate in the Sabila Spa and Wellness Center. Spacious suites with large balconies showcase ocean views and the expansive golf course that begs for replay.
Ten years new with the Red, Black and Blue Courses always highly ranked, The Chain is now in the works by Coore & Crenshaw. This short course will uniquely serve as a 6-, 12- or 18-hole loop. Secluded in Bowling Green, Florida, it’s all about the serenity of lakeside living in the middle of nowhere. Streams do sing from lagoons to lakes along the fairways and sunrise, sunset views are striking from the luxury lodge. Dark skies lend to star gazing after a day of golf, fishing, hunting, or basking in the other worldly spa. Plus, delectable dining choices abound.
Bowling Green, FL
Boyne Resorts is a collection of mountain and lakeside re sorts, ski areas, and attractions spanning from British Co lumbia to Maine. The company owns and operates eleven properties and an outdoor lifestyle equipment/apparel retail division with stores in cities throughout Michigan. An industry leader in multiple U.S. regions, operations include snow-sports and year-round mountain recreation, golf, an indoor waterpark, spas, food and beverage, lodging and real estate development. Founded in 1947 by Everett Kircher, Boyne Resorts is the third largest mountain resort company in North America. When it comes to golf travel, BOYNE Golf has set a new standard in the Golf Vacation Industry worldwide. There are few places anywhere where the quality of the golf facilities, golf resorts, expansive amenities, and over the top attention to detail are un matched. At Boyne all staff share the same mission, to make your stay the very best with friendliness and hospi tality delivered at the highest level of sincerity.
22 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
HOME OF MICHIGAN’S MAGNIFICENT 10 A MECCA FOR SPECTACULAR GOLF VACATIONS BOYNEGOLF
For decades Northern Michigan has been one of Ameri ca’s favorite Summer destinations. The natural beauty, pristine landscapes and rural character have drawn mil lions of visitors and summer residents yearly from around the U.S. and across the world. The unmistakable charm of the region along with its spectacular natural beauty, pro tected lakes and vast forest has made Northern Michigan the heart of tourism in the Great Lakes region. When you pair that with the simple fact the state is in the “Top 5” in states with the most golf courses, it’s easy to understand why Michigan is “America’s Summer Golf Capital“.
Ken Griffin, Director of Sales & Marketing for BOYNE Golf resorts, said it best, “Saying you’re the best is one thing, but creating the environment from top to bottom to make that happen is another thing completely. I feel we have something truly special here at Boyne, because of the special people that make it happen. We are a family who loves to make great vacation experiences”.
The BOYNE Golf Team is focused on excellence and it
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 23 shows, from resort to resort on every course you will find the same attention to detail. Immaculate course conditions tee to green, impeccable playing conditions, incredible views and vistas in every direction and very well managed pace of play for relaxing round. Boyne treats every golf course in their portfolio with the same focus to make your experience the very best no matter which facility you and your group are at. Ten classic golf courses, each uniquely presented their own individual character and design excellence, this is truly rare! There are few places in the world today where you can play 10 incredible golf courses, all in close proximity, man aged to perfection by one of the top golf resort teams in the industry, That’s “The BOYNE Experience”!
WithThe Alpine and The Monument, Boyne Mountain Re sort boasts two of Michigan’s premiere championship golf courses. From the scenic cart ride up to the top of Boyne Mountain where your round begins, to their dramatic fin ishing holes, both The Alpine and The Monument offer an unrivaled experience that won’t soon be forgotten.
-
With the prestigious Bay Harbor Golf Club and Inn at Bay Harbor as the flagship resort properties, BOYNE Golf pro vides the ultimate world-class golf destination with 10 championship caliber courses spanning three resorts. In addition to instruction through their nationally recognized BOYNE Golf Academy they offer events, tournaments, golf specials and more. The courses include the works of some of golf’s legendary designers, including Robert Trent Jones Sr., Arthur Hills, and Donald Ross and provide an unrivaled golf experience!
The Highlands is synonymous with golf, with four champi onship golf courses. From the timeless design of The Heather by Robert Trent Jones, to the history and heritage found playing the Donald Ross Memorial- a composite course of Ross’s best designs, the classic layout of The Moor, or the brilliant design and breathtaking views of the Arthur Hills—you’ll experience a round of golf the way it was meant to be played across all 72 holes.
24 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
A round at Bay Harbor Golf Club is not your ordinary golf experience. With three distinctive nine-hole designs by Ar thur Hills nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan—all con sistently voted among the best and most unique courses in America—each round provides countless memories. Perched high on the bluffs above Little Traverse Bay, Crooked Tree Golf Club offers the best golf course scenery in the Midwest and an unrivaled golf experience. Boyne Mountain not only features two fun 18-hole courses (The Monument and Alpine), along with the charming Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa, it is also the leading family friendly golf destination in the region with the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, junior golf camps, and various kid golf programs. Golf Digest named Boyne Mountain one of its “Top10 Destinations for Family Golf Trips.”
-
The Highlands, rated the No. 1 Golf Resort for Value by Golf.com, features 72 holes of premier golf design. The Heather, the 2019 NGCOA Course of the Year, was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., while the Hills Course was crafted by Arthur Hills. In addition, the resort features The Donald Ross Memorial, which is a rendition of the leg endary architect’s great holes from around the country, and the always-fun Moor course. The Highlands is the perfect buddy trip destination for golfers who like to play as many holes as they can during the long summer day light hours northern Michigan features.
For more visit www.boynegolf.cominformation,orcallcall855.248.7447
About BOYNE Golf BOYNE Golf has been recognized among the “Top 100 Resorts” by GOLF Magazine and one of the “Best Resorts in the Americas” by Golf Digest. The Inn at Bay Har bor and Bay Harbor Golf Club, Boyne’s flagship proper ties, feature 45-holes including three golf course combi nations designed by Arthur Hills (Links/Quarry, Quarry/ Preserve, and Preserve/Links), and the scenic Crooked Tree Golf Club, with one of the most beautiful and iconic hotels in America, all set along a scenic five-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline.
For more than 30 years, BOYNE Golf has set the standard for creating some of the best value in golf vacations. From the original “BOYNE Super 5” in the 1980s, which evolved into the more recent “Michigan’s Magnificent 10” pack age, BOYNE has re-defined the premier golf travel experi ence and helped to cement Northern Michigan as “Amer ica’s Summer Golf Capital.”
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 25
-
SAO MIGUEL NOV 3RD – NOV 8TH 2022
Sagres Vacations and The Emigrant Association of the Azores-Associacao Emigrante Azores, are hosting a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the Azores and play in the 2022 Azorean Golf Cup Tournament in Sao Miguel, Azores in November.
On the trip you will play two great island golf courses in the Azores, Batalha Golf Course on the North Coast and Furnas Golf Course which is located in the most scenic spots on the Island overlooking Furnas Lake. Each of these golf courses rep resents a unique challenge and both courses have hosted Euro
São Miguel is the biggest island in the Portuguese Azores archi pelago. It’s known for its volcanic scenery, flora and rich marine life, including whales. The Capital City of Ponta Delgada is the main commercial center of the Azores. Stroll through this charm ing city rich in culture and history. Ponta Delgada’s streets are full of black and white volcanic stones in distinctive patterns. Many buildings have whitewashed facades with brown-black window trim and reddish pipe roofs. Restaurants, Cafés and lo cal shops line the avenue along the sea. Ponta Delgada is a friendly city where everything is accessible on foot, including many of the island’s best restaurants. Ponta Delgada is close to the main attractions of Sao Miguel. The twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, one green and one blue, lie to the northwest of the capital. To the east, the village of Furnas with its fumaroles and hot springs offers a unique experience to its visitors.
AZOREAN GOLF CUP
INPAR-TEETHEAZORES
26 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Furnas Golf Course
The Furnas Golf Course is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of São Miguel, and only 25 min. drive from Ponta Delgada. The golf course is close to the beautiful Furnas Lake, one of the largest and most attractive lakes on the island, famous for its hot springs. This glorious view also takes in the stunning Cedars valley, which is famous for its tropical vegetation, and mineral water. The location is amidst the volcanic origins of these is lands, which offer the ideal climate for playing golf all the year round. This is a rare opportunity to discover the Azores and its amazing Golf Courses. Now is the time to contact Sagres Vacations to reserve your spot. Play the game you love while making new friends in the beautiful archipelago of the Azores. www.aeazores.org
PAR- TEE I N T H E A ZO R ES ! T AKE YO UR SWI N G T O T H E N EX T L EVE L I N SAO M IG U E L , AZO R ES ! JOI N TEA M N OA H FO UND A TIO N A ND AEAZO R E S FO R T H E 2022 AZO R EA N GO L F CU P N O V 3-8 , 202 2 $1820 per per s on , double o cc upanc y Upgrade available . I ncludes : Round t rip air f are wi t h S ATA f rom B os t on 4 nigh t s a t a 5-s t ar G ran d Ac ores Ho t el . P ri v a t e F urna s Tou r, 2 days o f gol f; A irpor t t rans f ers , 4 brea kf a sts, 3 lun c he s, 1 dinner included . F or More I n f orma t io n and re s er v a t ion s, call S agres Va c a t ions 877-412-4394 WW W .SAG R ES V A C A TIO N S. C O M 877-412-4394 | 139 S. M AI N S T., S U ITE 301 , F A L L R IVE R , M A 0272 1
pean and American amateur and college tournaments. There are spectacular views and vistas at both facilities. Batalha Golf Course
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 27
The Batalha golf course is set on an historical site where the battle waged between liberal and absolutist troops in the 19th century, fighting for political control of the main Azorean island of São Miguel. The course is situated on the north coast of São Miguel island, just 10 minutes from the center of the cap ital Ponta Delgada.
On a lucky day, golfers may see whales, dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the sea alongside the course.
28 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Scotland’s Dundonald DESTINATIONSDUNDONALDLINKS
BY DAVID DESMITH
You need a great golf course, for sure. After that? Comfy rooms are nice. (Luxurious ones are even better.) Inspiring food and drink. Friendly service. The list goes on. Thankfully, the world is blessed with many such fine resorts. But believe it or not, one of Scotland’s most popular golf destinations never had such a place. Until now. When Dundonald Links debuted in 2003 as the winter playground for members of ultra-exclusive Loch Lomond Golf Club, it added another spectacular offering to northern Ayrshire’s lineup, which already included historic standouts Royal Troon, Prestwick and Western Gailes. The Kyle Phillips-designed Dundonald course is a modern links that, like its neighbors, feels like it’s been in play for a century. Last autumn, Dundonald expanded to become a complete, world-class resort—a place where you can stay and play in luxury, surrounded by nature, with a stellar course right outside your door. For a whole bucketful of reasons, there’s no better place to set up camp when you’re in the Troon area. The minute you arrive at Dundonald, you can tell that it’s different. There’s no big, impersonal hotel here. Instead, the accommodations are sited in intimate clusters of luxurious two-, four-, and six-bedroom lodges that are ideal for visiting golfers—and especially for groups. Along with beautifully appointed guest rooms, most of these low-profile lodges have common areas with kitchens, lounges, pool tables, washer/dryers, and other thoughtful appointments. Three of these pods of lodges even have their own putting greens for honing your short game. Staying in this kind of accommodation is so much more enjoyable than your average hotel. You feel close to the land, and you’re just a short stroll from the resort’s modern clubhouse. That clubhouse is a story in itself. Its wellprovisioned pro shop, locker rooms with steam and sauna, gymnasium, and other amenities have everything that you (or the resort’s visiting professional golfers) could want. The Canny Crow restaurant upstairs offers sweeping views of the course and Ayrshire countryside, while serving up sumptuous, creative cuisine in four
WHAT MAKES A GREAT GOLF RESORT?
A New Resort That Gets Everything Right
Then there‘s Western Gailes, a lesser-known but just as wonderful links course that dates back to 1888. The string of stellar holes between the 5th and 13th play right along the windswept shoreline and include some truly great moments, like at the unforgettable par-3 7th, which plays downhill to a tiny green with sand and various other forms of trouble encircling the putting surface.
The Troon area has much to commend it beyond golf, too—like the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, where they pay homage to Scotland’s national bard. But it’s the world-class links golf courses that most visitors to this area come in search of. And now, with Dundonald, the area finally has a resort that’s the equal of its incredible courses.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DUNDONALD LINKS
DESTINATIONSDUNDONALDLINKS
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 29 distinctly different dining areas that make every visit feel like a unique experience. One of those areas is the Whisky Room, whose centerpiece is a large cask of the world’s last remaining supply of Bunnahabhain 1980 Vintage Canasta Whisky, a rare Islay spirit that was aged first in Oloroso sherry casks then in sweeter Canasta sherry oak. Whisky connoisseurs make pilgrimages from all over the world to sample this elixir, and you should, too. The resort also has an arrangement with Robert Graham 1874 that lets you pre-order premium cigars for yourself or your group. A nice touch. As good as the resort’s new amenities are, though, it’s the golf course that’s the biggest star here. I’ve long believed it to be one of the most underrated courses in Scotland, and it was made even stronger in preparation for hosting the 2022 Trust Golf Women’s Scottish Open and 2024 Open Championship qualifying. This is a true championship course routed through low, fescue-covered dunes that you’d do well to avoid. The fairways here are wide enough to let you swing freely off the tee, but the closer you get to the undulating and often elevated greens, the sharper you’ll need to be. This is exhilarating golf from start to finish—a veritable thrill ride over burns and around deep, revetted bunkers—with no two holes alike and great holes everywhere, including the stellar par-5 finishing hole. You can ride in a cart at Dundonald, too, which may be blasphemy to some but is perfect for your first round off the plane—or a twilight round after you’ve returned from visiting the area’s other storied links courses. And what stellar courses those are. Prestwick Golf Club, designed and built by Old Tom Morris, was the site of the first twelve Open Championships (four of which Morris won). The course you play today is a delightful antique that’s little changed from the extended 18-hole course that emerged in 1882. Famous holes like the Himalayas hole, a par 3 that demands a blind tee shot up and over a towering dune, and the Alps hole, a par 4 that calls for a blind second shot over another dune (and the enormous Sahara Bunker), have delighted and bedeviled golfers for over a century. Playing Prestwick is a history lesson from start to finish, and a boatload of fun.
Practically right next door sits Royal Troon, site of nine Open championships and future host of the 2024 Open Championship. Like Prestwick, the Troon experience oozes history. Its clubhouse is a museum, and every hole has stories to tell—none more so than the famed Postage Stamp hole, the par-3 8th, with its tiny green surrounded by some of links golf’s most inhospitable bunkers.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DUNDONALD LINKS
HILTON HEAD ISLAND SOUTH CAROLINA Photo Courtesy of Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort - Jones Course - Holes 9-11 HiltonHeadGolfIsland.com 24 Courses • Amazing Beaches • Lowcountry Dining & So Much More Browse Our Many Golf Vacation Ideas Online 2021 Best Island in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards PLAY AMERICA’S GOLF ISLAND Visit Hilton Head Island
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course Undergoing Most Extensive Sergio Garcia on Disney’s Magnolia
THE REDESIGN, its head golf course designer Ken Baker, involves reconfiguring several of the Magnolia course’s finishing holes and all 18 greens are being upgraded to create an even more pristine putting experience. The work is well underway with the new-look Magnolia course expected to reopen late this year during the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort.
2019 US Open champion Gary Woodland likes what he’s seen. “It will be amazing. The 15th (becoming) a big par 5; 16 is a long par 4 and they’ve brought in water perfectly,’’ said Woodland. “You’re going to have four closing holes down the stretch that will test every aspect of your game. It’ll be a great finish here at ToMagnolia.”bookyour next tee time on any of the Walt Disney World Golf Courses, visit www. golfwdw.com
32 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
The Arch of Cabo San Lucas Cabo San Lucas Country Club Tiger Woods Design at Diamante
Golf Where the Baja Desert Meets the Pacific Ocean
In 1992 Jack Nicklaus arrived in Cabo and designed the first Nicklaus golf course in Latin America, Palmilla. Since then, Jack has designed 6 additional courses. Cabo is home to Dye Course, as well as Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Weskopt, Arthur Hills, Greg Norman, Davis Love, Gary Player and Tiger Woods. It is virtually a “Hall of Fame of Golf Course Designs” by the very best. The only place in the world where you find such a collection of truly amazing golf experiences. From the minute you land at Los Cabos International Airport, you’ll know you’re in for a special experience. Within steps of the Arrivals Hall, Los Cabos welcomes you with a plethora of lively, open-air bars. Stopping for an ice-cold cerveza or margarita before you head to your hotel is practically mandatory. In route to your hotel, you’ll quickly get a feel for what makes this area so special. The red sandstone mountains. The cactus-laden desert crisscrossed by dry arroyos, and ultimately, the sparkling sea.
As late as the 1970s, Los Cabos was little more than a collection of quaint fishing villages. Today, it’s an international hot spot dotted with luxurious oceanfront hotels, bustling restaurants and bars, natural and cultural attractions galore, and golf courses that make superb use of their stunning settings. Spend a day in Cabo and you’ll understand immediately why the area is regarded as one of Mexico’s national treasures; spend a week there and you may never want to leave. The golf in Los Cabos is a lot like what you’ll find in the America,s southwest. It’s target golf on ribbons of emerald green turf with stunning ocean views from every course.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 33 In addition to golf, Los Cabos offers a myriad of other ways to have fun in the sun. You can go sportfishing for marlin, tuna, and other trophy catches just minutes from shore. Take boating excursions to see The Arch or go whalewatching; snorkeling in the clear, blue waters is also popular. At the moment, Los Cabos is one of the few international golf destinations that Americans can visit. It’s easy to get there via many major airlines, and the hotels and other tourism providers have taken every precaution to help ensure a safe visit. In fact, many of the destinations hotels and resorts are participating in a new health security protocol, “Sharecare Verified” by Forbes Travel Guide, that’s supported by leading travel agency brands such as Distincte Travel Group.
To book your golf experience in Los Cabos, go to: www.CaboGolfLife.com, where the very best of Los Cabos is just a click away.
The Office on The Beach – Cabo San Lucas Sunning on a Paddle Board in Cabo Cabo Flyboarding
www.visitloscabos.travel
Sean Winton, Founder and President of Distincte Travel Group, a lifestyle travel company that specializes in golf experienceswww.distincte.com believes Cabo is now one of the hottest golf travel destinations and will be for years to come. “Golf pilgrimages to the famed links courses of Scotland and Ireland are presently oversold,” Winton said, “at least until early 2023. Simply put, there’s just very little available inventory this year. Golfers will need a place to go—a destination that’s not only open but matches the high standards desired for a proper golf experience. We’re advising clients to swap out whisky for tequila, and to go where the desert meets the mighty Pacific –Los Cabos. People who haven’t traveled there will be astounded at how good it is. For those who have visited before, it’s the perfect time to go back.”
Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort & Spa
montcalmgolfclub.com | 603.448.5665 There's nothing quite like fall at Montcalm Enjoy panoramic foliage displays of Killington, Vermont’s Green Mountains, and Mt Ascutney Our award winning, semi private course is located off I 89, Exit 15 at 2 Smith Pond Rd Enfield, NH We're just minutes from Hanover/Lebanon, and an hour from Concord Come Stay and Play with us for a golfing expe rience you won't soon forget MEMBERSHIP | STAY & PLAY GOLF SCHOOL | SPECIAL EVENTS Learn more Home to Dartmouth College Men's & Women's Golf Experience MONTCALM While it's EXPLOADING with Color! Stay & Play Packages include accommodations at the nearby Hanover Inn on the campus of Dartmouth College and the Courtyard by Marriott Hanover Lebanon Review This is one of my favorite tracks in the country! It's iconic new England golf with spectacular views of the entire region for hundreds of miles! The greens are super entertaining and the lines and conditions of the fairways are perfect I highly recommend this place It's as good a product as I've played from Weilea to Pebble Beach
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 35
Northern New England and Upstate New York are home to some of the finest public access golf courses in the country. In this region both new and historic courses make up some of the iconic golf facilities by some of the greatest designers over the last 100 years in the game. The dramatic landscapes of Northern New England create the perfect backdrop for some of the most prolific mountain golf course design in North America. In Northern New York across upstate regions with rolling hillsides, mountain lakes and the Hudson River Valley you will find some of the most spectacular scenery you will find anywhere in the game today.
BEST IN GOLF NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND & UPSTATE NEW YORK The Best in Public Access Golf Courses Upstate New York | Vermont | New Hampshire | Maine The Sagamore
BEST IN GOLF NEW ENGLAND & UPSTATE NEW YORK
The course dates back to 1921 with a design by Wayne Styles and John Van Kleek. It was expanded to 18 holes in 1999 and more recently underwent a renovation by Bruce Hepner. The course is open to guests of the accompanying Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort. www.boothbayharborcc.com
www.sundayriver.com
Sunday River Newry Newry, ME Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., the Sunday River Golf Course offers spectacular mountain views overlooking the Sunday River Valley and Mahoosuc Range. This championship course is the perfect course to play in October when the leaves are changing.
The breathtaking backdrop of the White Mountains in New Hampshire, The Green Mountains of Vermont, The Adirondacks of Upstate New York become the perfect pallet for some of the most spectacular and scenic golf courses designs by Donald Ross, Jeoffrey Cornish, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Arthur Hills, Robert Trent Jones and so many others. Famous golf course designer, Tom Fazio once said, “Anyone can build a great golf course in the soft sandy soils of the lowlands. But it takes vision, and three times the work to create a beautiful golf course in a mountain landscape. In the end it is the dramatic landscape that becomes the backdrop for a truly memorable design”. Here is our take of some of the Northeast’s Best Public Play Facilities!
Cape Arundel
Owls Nest Boothbay Harbor Country Club Sunday River
Cape Arundel GC Kennebunkport Kennebunkport, ME The Walter Travis-designed Cape Arundel in Kennebunkport was founded in 1896, Cape Arundel was among the first 100 golf clubs in the United States. The club’s original layout was redesigned by Travis and opened in 1921. www.capearundelgolfclub.com
36 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
BEST IN MAINE Boothbay Harbor Country Club Boothbay, ME
NORTHERN
Atkinson Resort Golf Club Atkinson, NH In 2015 The National Golf Course Owners Association chose this facility as “The National Course of The Year”. Two award winning golf courses at a fabulous resort which is always in pristine playing condition.
BEST IN VERMONT The Quechee Club Quechee, VT The Quechee Club is host to two signature Jeoffrey Cornish 18-hole golf courses that are always ranked among the best in state. Both the Lakeland and Highland courses offer spectacular views especially in the Fall.
The Owl’s Nest Thornton Thornton, NH New Hampshire’s only Jack Nicklaus signature championship golf course located at one of New England’s most spectacular 4- season resorts. The stunning layout offers spectacular view of the White Mountains. www.owlsnestresort.com
BEST IN GOLF NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND & UPSTATE NEW YORK
Omni Mount Washington The Quechee Club Green Mountain National Atkinson Resort Golf Club
www.omnihotels.com
| AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 37
Omni Mount Washington Bretton Woods, NH A Donald Ross design from 1915, Brian Silva renovated the Mount Washington course at the 27-hole Bretton Woods Omni Resort in 2008 following the master architect’s original plans. It is a stunning layout overlooking Mt Washington.
www.atkinsonresort.com
BEST IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
www.quecheeclub.com Green Mountain National Killington, VT Voted as the #1 public golf course in Vermont numerous times. The course was designed by Gene Bates and opened 1996. One of Vermont’s top plays with majestic views from every hole. www.gmngc.com
NORTHEAST.GOLF
The Golf Club at Equinox
The BoltonSagamoreLanding, NY
The Sagamore Golf Course cuts a forested path through wooded terrain above scenic Lake George. Designed by acclaimed golf architect Donald Ross in 1928, the course is part of the renowned Sagamore Resort.
BEST IN GOLF
www.equinoxresort.com
This Reese Jones/ Walter Travis 1926 has been named to all “Best in Vermont” list. The design is one of the best in the state and has tremendous mountain vistas with impeccable playing conditions, always a fall favorite.
The Golf Club at Equinox Manchester Village, VT
BEST IN UPSTATE NEW YORK
38 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
www.turningstone.com
Located about a mile from the famed Saratoga Horse Race. The golf course design was by Roger Rulewich in 2001, a protégé of Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course is one of the finest layouts in the Adirondacks. www.golfsaratoga.com
Turning Stone Resort Verona, NY
All three designs by Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Rick Smith are the best of the best in the region. Spectacular training facilities, spectacular layouts, and challenging designs are found at these highly awarded courses.
www.opalcollection.com/sagamore/ Saratoga National Saratoga Springs, NY
NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND & UPSTATE NEW YORK
The Sagamore Saratoga NationalTurning Stone Resort
TO THE WHEN YOU TRAVEL THE GRASS IS TRULYRIGHTGREENERPLACES. Named New Hampshire’s “#1 Public Course” since 2009 by Golfweek magazine, Omni Mount Washington Resort offers a beautiful setting to test even the most experienced golfer. After your round, enjoy world-class dining, an award-winning spa and endless views from your private balcony in the new Presidential Wing guest rooms. OmniHotels.com/MountWashingtonTee-Times:603-278-GOLF[4653]Lodging:800-843-6664
40 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF After you’ve chosen what tracking device you wish to use, with which software, the next most important piece of technology is the projector. I’ve done a lot of learning just recently about what’s going on with projectors. A guy named Bob Wudeck is who I have to thank for that. Bob is Senior Director of Business Development for BenQ, a major multinational tech company deeply involved in projection IP. BenQ has become obsessed with indoor golf and delivering the perfect simulator projection technology. “In the last couple of years, we have been focusing on using our expertise in laser technology and color accuracy to create an immersive simulation experience”, Bob told me. That’s code for “we’ve got some really cool new IP”. But there are many serviceable brands and models available. The key is to understand how to choose the right model for you: Cost This is the driving factor for most. There are acceptable options well under a thousand dollars, and my favorite at the high end is about five thousand. Bulb vs Laser Bulbs or lasers are the most practical choices today. Bulbs are phasing out. Lasers and LED lighting are taking over. Today, lasers are more expensive but have very long lives, turn on instantly, and stay brighter longer. Bulbs decline and need to be replaced. Bulb units can be purchased for well under $1k. Entry level lasers start a bit over a thousand, and the best lasers start at $2.5k and can run into five figures. WUXGA There is still an obtainable resolution below WUXGA, at 1024x728. I’ve seen decent units under $600. You’ll pay more like $850 for a good WUXGA bulb unit at 4000 lumens - but many of these models are being replaced with lasers. The above-mentioned laser at 4000 lumens at $1.5k is indeed WUXGA. Numerous brands provide ~5000 lumen WUXGA lasers priced in and around $2.5k. My high end WUXGA favorite, at 5500 lumens, is around $4k. But you can spend a multiple of this to get 10,000 lumens or more (all WUXGA). 4k If you want value or extraordinary brightness, choose WUXGA. If you want the best, 4k is it. You can find a 4k projector for around $2,000. My favorite is about $5,000–at 5100 lumens. Note that much higher lumen 4k projection is not available today. One can hope 4k lasers will get brighter and BenQ 5100 lumen 4K laser projector, $4,900. INDOOR GOLF CLARITY GOLF The Critical Components of a Simulator Part Three: Projection BY BILL BALES “The key is to choose the right projector for you.”
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 41 Panasonic 5000 lumen WUXGA laser, $2,500. INDOOR GOLF CLARITY GOLF cheaper–although 5000 lumens is a lot.. Projection Distance Each model has a specific lens and that lens has a specific throw or throw range. Most home installations will want to use a short throw lens, while commercial installations will often want the projector farther back. The throw range determines where you can place your projector to get the image you wish. A good calculator can be found by Googling “projection calculator pro”. These are the big items, noting that I did not make brightness a topic. Brightness is a direct product of cost and other choices. Within the above parameters I would not make choices based on lumens. Bill Bales is Northeast Golf Magazine’s monthly columnist on indoor golf and Northeast Golf’s free indoor golf advisor to any of its readers. Feel free to email Bill anytime at BillBales@Clarity.Golf and he’d be pleased to answer your questions. You can link to a useful projector guide by BenQ at Clarity.Golf’s homepage. Optima 4000 lumen WUXGA bulb projector, $840
Located at Cranston CC in RI | 508-951-4371 | toddcampbell@pga.com Learn More & Book Your Lessons at: ToddCampbellGolf.com 2022 RI PGA Teacher of the Year | 2021 Northeast Golf Best Instructors in RI MeasureWhy Guess When You Can
One Membership. Two Great Courses. Public Play, Practice & Dining Welcome Olde Barnstable508-420-1141Fairgrounds It’s More Than a Swing! W e s e r v e y o u , n o t i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s . W e p r o v i d e g o l f b a s e d p h y s i c a l t h e r a p y a n d p e r f o r m a n c e s e r v i c e s f o r g o l f e r s o f a l l a g e s . B o o k A n A p p o i n t m e n t S h o r e G o l f P e r f o r m a n c e c o m | 4 0 1 8 6 4 0 1 1 2 m i c h a e l @ s h o r e g o l f p e r f o r m a n c e c o m a t C r a n s t o n C o u n t r y C l u b i n t h e G o l f A c a d e m y w i t h T o d d C a m p b e l l
resortESSENTIALS Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family this summer, there are certain essential items you’re going to want to pack. From clothing to gear, we have the best recommendations to make your destination vacation one you’ll never forget. BY GREG
RESORTFASHIONESSENTIALS SAMPSON
44 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
AMERICAN BISON DUFFEL + DOPP — THE HERITAGE COLLECTION
2 SWING JUICE | swingjuice.com | $ varies Rock the ultimate golf-inspired apparel brand around the resort during your next golf trip. SwingJuice apparel allows you to display your passion for golf in a more fun, unique and approachable way. Be a part of the SwingJuice community by sharing your passion for Golf. All the SwingJuice tees are a high quality 50% polyester, 25% combed and ringspun cotton, 25% rayon, 100% soft and comfortable. Virtually no shrink. From movie quotes to state pride to licensed apparel there are over 250 shirts to choose from. They also offer polos, tanks, hoodies and more for men, women and kids. Use Code NORTHEAST20 for 20% Off at Checkout!
3 BIOM C4 by ECCO | us.ecco.com | $230 The newest development in the BIOM® series, ECCO BIOM® C4, offers unrivalled 360-degree breathability, allowing golfers to stay cool and comfortable throughout their round. This blend of innovative comfort ensures cushioning, rebound, waterproofing and air-flow. An updated BIOM® last offers superior control and support, while the outside TPU posts add stability, and BIOM® NATURAL MOTION technology enables the foot to move naturally and close to the ground. GORE-TEX SURROUND construction is combined with an ECCO EXHAUST GRID that directs fresh air towards the sole of your foot, and the ECCO MTN GRIP outsole has three different sections providing traction, stability, and rotational support. Crafted from ECCO Performance Leather, the ECCO GOLF BIOM® C4 and comes in four stylish colorways for men; Black, White/Black, Concrete/Black and White/ Concrete.
100% American Bison Leather with cotton/polyester lining and brass antiqued hardware. One of the strongest and toughest commercial leathers used today, American Bison by nature is a fighting animal and will naturally have more scars and scratches than cowhide, goatskin or lambskin, giving each hide a ruggedly unique flair. The American Bison collection is designed to embrace and showcase these natural markings, with a tanning process that accentuates the already bold and textured appearance of the hide. No individual bag is BUY DUFFEL…AGETAFREEDOPPKIT($165VALUE)
RESORTFASHIONESSENTIALS
HEVIAS | hevias.com | $695 Tatanka! Travel first class even when you’re riding in coach. Our American Bison Weekender is a showpiece duffel with the luxurious pebbled texture of American Bison leather and exceptional quality that’s visible from any distance. This high-capacity leather travel bag has an extra wide opening for easy packing and interior visibility, thanks to the top zipper that extends around the sides. Supple calfskin leather handles with a detachable shoulder strap give you two easy carry choices for this premium bag that’s lined in charcoal velvet and trimmed with the finest antiqued solid brass hardware. An outside sheath pocket holds your phone, chargers, keys and writing tools as well as an exterior luggage sleeve with a dual zipper closure. A double padded interior laptop sleeve with an opposing interior pocket secured with the finest Spanish zipper.
1 KENNY FLOWERS | kennyflowers.com | $88 Kenny Flowers is known for putting a fresh spin on swim and resort wear with bold prints, vibrant colors and fresh looks for the whole family. Now you can wear matching family outfits on the links as well, with Bunker-to-beach, fairway-to-fiesta golf polos everyone can enjoy: whether they’re hitting their first birdie or making sandcastles in the bunker. Kenny Flowers offers a full line of Resort and Country Club apparel for the whole family.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 45
Polos & MUST-HAVESwimwear TRAVEL ESSENTIAL Graphic
FootwearTees
1 32
-
2 31 ROWLAND THOMAS COLLECTION LUXURY BELTS REDEFINED
46 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Nexbelt, The Original Belt with No Holes, has introduced a new collection of ratchet-style belts that have redefined the category of luxury accessories. These U.S.A. made belts by Rowland Thomas will elevate a casual stylish look or add a dash of personality to formal business attire and are guaranteed to catch the eye of fashion-forward admir ers. The buttery soft premium calfskin leathers from Italy are embossed with detailing such as alligator or crocodile prints. For the Serpent Collection, each scale is hand cut to replicate the scales of a snake. The Avignon and Her rington Collections, feature a textured stripe and her ringbone pattern respectively. The buckles are detailed with classic designs and feature stainless steel hex screws similar to what you’d see on a fine luxury timepiece. The belts will accommodate up to a 45” inch waist and feature a unique ratcheting system called Precise-FitTM. Instead of the typical 1” inch adjust ment of a traditional pin-and-buckle style belt, these belts allow the person wearing them to “micro-tune” the belt and adjust it ¼ inch increments, providing the best fit, feel, and fashion available.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 47 5 Featuring ten different design and color options to com plete your Resort Wear collection.
2. KAYIMAN COLLECTION - Full grain Italian calfskin embossed in brown crocodile print with black highlights or black crocodile print with blue highlights.
3. CHORDATA COLLECTION - Full grain Italian calfskin embossed in a horn back crocodile print. Straps are available in brown and grey with each strap having contrasts of dark and light highlights with a flat and satin finish.
4. AVIGNON COLLECTION - Full grain black or brown Italian calfskin embossed with a beautifully detailed stripe texture.
5. HERRINGTON COLLECTION - Full grain Italian calf skin embossed in a tan herringbone texture or black her ringbone texture. All the Rowland Thomas belts come in a Premium Presentation Box and a Velvet Travel Bag and are available online at www.RowlandThomas.com.
1. SERPENT COLLECTION - Full grain Italian leather with a special embossed cut to replicate snake scales. Available in black with grey highlights or black with taupe highlights.
Top yourourGiveSwingboutiquehard-to-find,fromclubWeinClubfitter100Americaofferallthetopnamesinheads,shafts,andgrips:industryleaderstohigh-endbrands.byourshop,usacallorvisitwebsitetobooknextappointment!P:(401)946-4653|E:support@spargogolf.com1000NewLondonAve,Cranston,RI02920www.spargogolf.com Make sure you follow us on social @spargogolfmedia:
BY GREG SAMPSON & CARTS
The Blade IP from BIG MAX folds down flat to an incredible depth of less than 5” and weighs in at just 14 llbs, making it comfortably the most easily stored and transported push cart on the market. On the course, it glides along the fairway with even the largest Tour bag on board. Packed with features such as footbrake, storage compartment and an organizer panel, plus a 5 year manufacturer warranty, the BLADE IP is an unrivalled piece of engineering both on and off the course. Available in Black, Black/ Lime, Black/Red, White DRI LITE HYBRID TOUR BIG MAX GOLF us.bigmaxgolf.com| | $240
The water-resistant Dri Lite Hybrid Tour is the perfect bag for golfers who want to walk, push or ride, whatever the weather. It’s flat footless base combines with clever positioning of the leg mechanism and a leg lock feature to sit perfectly square on a cart. When used as a carry bag, its ultra-light weight of 4.4 llbs, padded straps and air flow feature provide comfort and simplicity of use. Water resistant technology, bags of storage options including oversize cooler pocket, plus a host of neat practical features make this stylish golf bag a top performer however you choose to play the game. Available in Black, Black/Red,Charcoal/Silver/Blueberry/Merlot,SteelBlue/Black/Rust,White/Black/Orange.
Blade IP BIG MAX GOLF | us.bigmaxgolf.com | $400
50 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Enjoy the Walk The Latest in Bags & Carts
PRO SHOP BAGS
The Nitron has a lightning-fast auto-open featuring Nitro-Piston Technology with an easy one-step open. The cart has a compact fold size and is lightweight for storage and transport. The Nitron also features Top-Lok Technology®, a patented bag-to-cart attachment system. Other features include a full scorecard console with an integrated beverage holder, mobile device holder and golf ball storage. Included is an umbrella holder with storage clip. Golfers alike enjoy the extra large accessory bag under the scorecard console for storage and the handle mounted parking brake. The cart uses a bungee straps to secure golf bag and is offered in eight different two combinations.color
Switch Pack Kaddey | kaddey.com | $344
Nitron Auto Open Bag Boy | bagboy.com | $300
Rovic RV1S Clic Gear USA clicgearusa.com| | The$260RV1S swiveling front wheel makes it the most maneuverable cart on the market. The cart quickly folds down to a compact size and features an easy access foot break. Storage includes a large console with scorecard, ball, pencil and tee holders. There are two accessory mounts with a standard cup holder and umbrella mounting bracket included. Choose from four different color options. Model 4.0 Clic Gear USA | clicgearusa.com | $300
The ingeniously compact Kaddey Switch is super light to push and pull thanks to its XL wheels and sophisticated balance. Leave it permanently attached to your bag to save space in your trunk, locker or at home. Furthermore the Switch has nine different wheel cap colors to choose from, a selfie mode and (how handy) a sharpener! Choose from two frame colors and nine wheel cap covers.
Chiller Hybrid Bag Boy | bagboy.com | $230
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 51
The Chiller has a removable, insulated cooler bag that holds four 12-ounce cans. The 14-Way organizer top has full-length individual dividers and a hidden cart strap sleeve. The bag has TOP-LOK® Technology, a patented bag-to-cart attachment system and an easy-grip handle integrated into bag top. The Chiller also features eight zippered pockets including a fleece-lined valuables pocket, two versized garment pockets with an IGOTCHA® ball retriever sleeve, an oversized ball pocket, three accessory pockets and two quick-access mesh pockets. Plus the oversized putter well fits larger grips which most bags do not have. Pick from size different colorways.
The 4.0 is focused on durability and function. This awarding winning 3-wheel cart stands above the rest with a new silicone bag strap system, adjustable upper saddle and lower saddle. The 4.0 quickly folds down to a compact size. The cart features a frontwheel engaged hand brake and an independent handle bar adjustments. Storage includes a large console with scorecard, ball, pencil and tee holders and the frame has a large storage net. There are four accessory mounts with a standard cup holder and umbrella mounting bracket included. Choose from eightcolordifferentways.
PRO SHOP BAGS & CARTS
Putting practice is certainly not the most thrilling part of golf so spicing up our interest with a friend or friends and perhaps trading a few dollars while sharpening our skills is an attractiveWhetheroption.on the practice green or course, a simple caveat first. Wagers to fit your fiscal comfort level are fine between friends and acquaintances but beware of players you don’t know—the guy on the first tee with a tan and a one-iron. As strange as it may seem, hustlers are not something out of a movie or people who were only around decades ago. This is particularly the case at public courses. A few years ago, in a practice round for a scratch best-ball event, my partner and I were matched up with two guys we had never met. Contrary to the above advice, we agreed to a $10 Nassau with automatic two-down presses. That is, $10 per man for the front nine, back nine and entire 18 plus. When a team was behind by two holes, another $10 bet began. Our opponents hadn’t played well and when the round finished, we were up $50 per man. The hero had been my partner who putted, as the saying goes, ‘lights out.’ Walking towards the parking lot they said, “We’ll meet you in the grill and settle up.” However, they had no intention of paying. In fact, what they did was toss their clubs in the car and drive off. They never returned for the tournament, meaning we were out $100. So, what was with them? Were they embarrassed or broke or just dishonest? Perhaps they thought we hustled them; we’ll never know. Putting practice at times is monotonous and even boring so there is always the danger of developing a lousy attitude as in, “Why am I doing this?” Having even a small bet is a great idea. How about a lag putting contest (30 feet is sufficient) for closest to the hole? Or, maybe
BY ED TRAVIS
52 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
DoughforPutting
Years ago, a husband and wife would meet after work to practice and play a few holes but when they got to the putting green, they had a couple of simple wagers. The one most often contested was, “the loser cooks dinner.” It appears he couldn’t catch a break (much less make a putt) since he always seemed to be leaving early to get the meal started.
GAMBLING AND GOLF have been partners for as long as the game has been played and there are few weekend warriors who don’t put a dime, or a dollar (or more) on the outcome of a round. Making wagers on the scoring for a single hole, or all 18, and with or without a partner is one way to rev up our competitive feelings. In my group of frequent players however, making bets on our skill, or lack of it, with the flat stick is often the focus. That’s not to say we don’t have individual and a four-ball Nassau or more complicated attention-getters, just that the variations of betting on putting are both interesting and even exciting. Putting is also a great leveler between short hitters and the big guns, even more than handicap differential. The exchange of dollars on putting prowess isn’t limited to the actual round since practice green time before the round, or even after a day in the office, are also potentially appropriate. Working on the practice green rehearsing in the proper setup and making a smooth, online stroke is important, but adding even a small wager moves you into learning how to handle the pressure of a ‘must-make’ putt. A friendly practice green bet can provide that experience in an environment uncomplicated with other factors.
ON THE RANGE GOLF & GAMBLING combine that with total strokes for each hole? It’s simple and great practice for potential situations during a round. A variation is to putt two balls and then putt two from the one that finished furthest from the hole - keep at it until both are holed out with the winner taking the fewest total Anotherstrokes.interesting wager is to create a putting match for nine holes around the practice green with the bet on total strokes. Of course, it doesn’t have to be nine holes and a bet for three holes repeated three times works well or really any other number of holes. Still, the idea is to have some friendly competition while putting a little ‘pressure’ on your ability to perform. Some like a game of three points combining putting with another critical short game skill: Chipping. Score one point for the closest chip to the hole, one point for closest first putt and one point for first to hole out. The betting may be on total points or separated into the points earned chipping and putting and holing out. While playing 18 holes probably the most common putting wager is called ‘snake.’
You-Bet-Partner stacks you and a partner against the other two players for the total number of putts each team makes on a hole. It’s simple; if you three-putt while your partner holes out in one, your total of four strokes must be beaten by the opponents to win. Usually, carryovers are added on for a fixed bet per hole.
SHOP.TOUREDGE.COM
Anyone who takes three or more putts pays the other players a fixed amount, say $1, so the cost if playing in a foursome is $3 for each snake. To make it more interesting, many play ‘carryover snakes.’
Lastly, a very simple contest is paying off whoever makes the longest putt on a hole, i.e., first in. The obvious problem is determining who is away so maybe you should practice pacing off distances with consistent length steps, although having a tape measure in the bag isn’t unheard of. Each member of the group pays every hole. Keeping track on the scorecard and settling up at the end of the round is a good way to avoid money changing hands on every green. There are dozens more money games. It’s good to remember in addition to the prospect of leaving the course with a few extra dollars in your pocket, the need to deal with the stress of a must-make putt will certainly improve your putting performance.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 53
Just as the name implies, the player pays $1 to each player for each hole since the last three-jack. This can get to be a lot more painful since if, for instance, the only three putt is on the eighteenth, the payout is $54. For most of us, that’s real pressure.
Eagle Sponsors Aizenstadt Family Northeast Golf Presented by Ace Sponsors GET ON THE RIGHT COURSE TO FIGHT CANCER ® Get started at JimmyFundGolf.org Get involved with Jimmy Fund Golf presented by Mohegan Sun to give back, have fun, and defy cancer for patients at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Start a traditional or mini golf event Play in an existing event near you Become a sponsor to showcase your brand and support our mission DEFY THROUGHCANCERGOLF GFGEN2225837
By John Molori
MOLORI UNPLUGGED
The U.S. Open Championship at The Country Club, Brookline, MA.
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 55
THE 2022 U.S. OPEN and accompanying events were held at The Country Club in Brookline, MA June 13th to the 19th. Our hallowed national championship of golf took place at Country Club three times previously. The first is part of American golf lore with Brookline’s hometown amateur Francis Ouimet unexpectedly winning the 1913 title.Putting aside the national impact of this historic tournament, just think about what was going on in Boston sports during the 2022 U.S. Open. The Boston Celtics were completing a scintillating run to the NBA Finals. The Boston Red Sox were in the midst of a torrid June that would culminate in a 20-6 record. The Boston Bruins had just fired Head Coach Bruce Cassidy, and the New England Patriots were gearing up for another offseason workout schedule. Despite this, The U.S. Open claimed center stage in the region with Matt Fitzpatrick outdueling Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris in the final round to win the championship. Fitzpatrick might as well buy a condo in Brookline. The self-effacing Brit also won the 2013 U.S. Amateur title at The Country Club. We all know the worldwide interest in the U.S. Open, but just what is the impact for a sleepy Massachusetts town to host a global golf event? Beyond the marvelous golf exploits, the 2022 event brought thousands of fans into Brookline and provided a needed boost to the local economy with hotel reservations, restaurant patronage,
U.S. Open Championship Shines as a Global Event with Local Impact
Accessible parking spaces for vehicles with HD/DP license plates or placards were reserved at all parking locations, and complimentary lift-equipped shuttles to and from all remote championship parking lots were provided.
On the economic front, the United States Golf Association (USGA) Open Works Program offered Brookline businesses opportunities for labor and supply provision to the U.S. Open. Small businesses and businesses owned by women, minorities, LGBTQIA, people with disabilities, and veterans were given top priority for providing transportation, food products, building materials, rental equipment, and more. Brookline also secured the rights to in-person sales of U.S. Open merchandise, with a minimum of $100,000 net profit guaranteed. All proceeds from these merchandise sales were distributed to local non-profit charities and organizations.Giventhese risky times for heavily attended events, the Brookline Police and Fire Departments were the lead law enforcement agencies for the event, but they were not alone. Police Departments from neighboring communities, the Massachusetts State Police, and federal law enforcement partners - FBI, DHS, USPS, FAA – were also on Securityhand.was a huge emphasis at the U.S. Open, from both a health and safety perspective. According to the Town of Brookline, attendees went through a TSA-style screening and verification process similar to a Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, or Patriots game.
56 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF and tax Interestrevenue.inthe U.S. Open was so intense that many locals rented their homes to visiting golf fans. According to town guidelines, prospective renters were responsible for researching, coordinating, and directly contracting with the VRBO,homeowner.Airbnb,and other rental sites were awash with golf fans looking for lodging. Meanwhile, Brookline residents became temporary innkeepers, booking their homes for upwards of $200 per night.
Just as the USGA looks to expand the reach of golf, accessibility was a giant priority at this year’s U.S. Open.
For those who were not able to make it to Brookline, the 2022 U.S. Open was featured on a number of media
1 2 3 4 R a i s e M O R E w i t h t h e L e a d e r b o a r d F O R E ! AIR CANNON Mention NORTHEAST GOLF for an Exclusive Bundled Price of $200 OFF! CALL 774-254-0880 or VISIT LEADERBOARDNEWENGLAND.COM PUTT FOR DOUGH BREAK THE GLASS HOLE IN ONE
thewere9.2marchFitzpatrick’stimeWatch,toexcellenttournamentpartstelevisionlastatournamentyear’ssawdeclinefromyearinoverallratings,ofthedrewnumbers.AccordingSportsMediaattheofMattfinaltovictory,millionviewerstunedintoexcitement,
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 57
This year’s tournament was broadcast in over 190 countries to more than 95 million viewers on NBC Universal, Golf Channel, International TV, and USGA Digital.Global eyeballs on the event are important, but the more tangible impact of the 2022 U.S. Open can be found in the heart of Brookline. We are talking about 175,000plus people in attendance over the course of that June week, people spending dollars, dollars that go to vital local businesses and industrious local employees. The $12.5 million dollar purse was terrific for the competing golfers, but money in the purses and wallets of everyday workers is an even more crucial legacy for this incredible golf spectacle. John Molori is an author and columnist for numerous publications. Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@gmail.com. Fitzpatrick
Whileplatforms.this the most since 2013. It was the fourth-most viewed golf round of 2022 behind the third and final rounds of the Masters and the final round of the PGA Championship. In this, the age of multiple platforms for viewing, overall ratings are somewhat skewed. Case in point, NBC reported that the 2022 U.S. Open had an average streaming audience of 148,000 viewers per minute during the Sunday broadcast making it the network’s moststreamed golf event ever.
58 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
Jack Ross, who resides in Holden, MA, has been a columnist for Northeast Golf for more than a decade with a focus on the rules of golf, the USGA, and regional golf topics.
Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson By Jack RossROSS’S RULES
ON FRIDAY OF THE 150TH CHAMPIONSHIP,OPEN Tiger Woods strode across the fabled Swilcan Bridge on the Old Course at St. Andrews en route to missing the cut after rounds of 78-75. Woods did not linger on the bridge for an iconic photograph. He kept walking, tipping his hat to the vocal and appreciative throngs of spectators who no wondereddoubtifthey were watching Woods’ final round on the Old Course. He was not willing to concede that. Two hours later, Phil Mickelson, who also would not play on the weekend, strode across the Swilcan Bridge, looking downcast. He received little attention from the spectators. Mickelson had assumed a low profile in St. Andrews, skipping the champions dinner earlier in the week. While once the darling of golf fans, Mickelson might have wondered how his career had gone astray in recentWatchingmonths.the events unfold at the Old Course, one is left to wonder whether Woods’ and Mickelson’s treks over the Swilcan Bridge into the shadows of the golf world might have symbolized the end of one of golf’s storied rivalries. As Woods continues to battle injuries and Mickelson battles his age, the distractions of his personal life, and his affiliation with LIV Golf, golf fans might rightly question whether they will ever again see these dominant players go head-to-head in a major event or even be relevant to competitive golf. It was always a curious rivalry, in some respects. The fact is that had Woods not come along, we would be heralding Mickelson as the most dominating player of the past several decades. His record of Tour wins (45) and majors (6) stands far ahead of his peers other than Woods. But there was essentially no rival to Woods from 1997-2008, when he racked up 14 majors and countless Tour victories. He dominated the game like no other golfer in history during that period. And while Woods was piling up major Mickelsonvictories,wasshut out until he finally broke through at Augusta in 2004.
Like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer in the 1960s and 1970s, Woods and Mickelson had vastly different playing styles and personalities. Woods was intense, focused, self-absorbed, and cared little about nurturing friendships on the Tour. His mantra was to take no prisoners. And he kept reworking his swing to achieve technical perfection. Mickelson was the fan favorite who took time to sign autographs after every round, and the magician on the course who played with a gofor-broke style. Both Woods and Mickelson stand at uncertain precipices. Woods is struggling just to walk the golf course after a severe automobile accident in February 2021. Given his physical condition, his remarkable comeback Master’s win in 2019 might prove to be the final achievement of his career. But we should know enough about Tiger not to count him out. He didn’t pose for that farewell photo on the bridge. The Tiger & Phil story is evolving but hasn’t ended.
The Tiger-Phil Rivalry Might Have Ended at the Swilcan Bridge
508 234 0400 • ShiningRock.com 91 Clubhouse Ln. Northbridge, MA 01534 C O M E S E E H O W T H E R O C K I S P L A Y I N G ! A w a r d W i n n i n g G o l f I s C l o s e r T o Y o u T h a n Y o u T h i n k ! Just 45 Minutes from Boston & Providence Only 1 Hour from Manchester & Hartford
STAY, PLAY & LIVE DESTINATION JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER
The Owl’s Nest Resort, one of New England’s finest four-season resorts, is located in The White Mountains National Forest of New Hampshire. The forest makes up 800,000 acres of some of the most majestic and scenic lands in America for vacationing and living. The region is comprised of dozens of small New En gland villages and towns in the heart of northern New England. Majestic ski resorts and four-season vacation attractions, make it one of the top tourist destinations in the East. The Owl’s Nest expansion and extensive development plans have now made the facility the largest destination four-season resort in the TheNortheast.multi-million
front seafood and drinks for guests and residents. The Lafayette Lodge is under construction. The Lodge will feature 24 double queen and 9 king rooms. Three new Nano 2.0’s have been set this week on Lafayette Road and will be ready for occupancy by May 2022.
THE NEW OWL’S NEST RESORT
The Owl’s Nest also has eight tennis courts (six clay clay tennis courts and two clay championship courts), four paddle tennis
60 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
NEWCOMMUNITYENGLAND’STOP
The Boathouse is well underway and will be open for events this summer, and the lakeside eatery, HOOK, will be serving water
dollar expansion, which began two years ago, includes a recently completed 10-acre lake (the largest manmade recreational lake in NH). The newly completed Lakehouse can host events for 350 and is equipped with a full-size catering kitchen, bar, and two-story event space with a large deck reach ing over and wrapping around the waterfront of Lake Harold. The resort has announced the lake is completely full and will be sporting kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and more this summer.
There is a lot happening at the Owl’s Nest as it has become the place to be for all seasons, all sports, and all activities in New Hampshire. Find your way to the Nest, “your first time will never be your last.” www.owlsnestresort.com603.706.3076
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 61 courts and 10 pickleball courts. Other amenities scheduled to open in 2022 include a new executive nine-hole golf course that goes around the lake (set to open in the fall), and a 10-mile paved loop for jogging, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. A year-round pool with Jacuzzis is under construction with a new food and beverage pavilion. The pavilion will host concerts, and there are plans to build a 500-person amphithe ater in the future. It also is a very popular choice for destination weddings and corporate functions. The Owl’s Nest 18-hole championship is the only Nicklaus de signed course in New Hampshire. A Jack Nicklaus experience typically comes with a high premium, and a green fee under $100 is rare. Recently Jack’s course at the Owls Nest received accolades at one of the “Top Ten Best Value Nicklaus Golf Courses” in the world coming in at number #6 by Golf Pass. It is a simply magnificent layout with lots of elevation changes and fantastic hole designs. The real challenge here for golfers is fo cusing on their game while spectacular views abound in every Theredirection.are various real estate opportunities to own a vacation home at the #1 growing resort in North America with more com munity amenities being added monthly. In just a few weeks, four new model homes will open for tours at the Owl’s Nest in the new North Lake development. There are various models avail able and custom home designs as well. There is also an option to be included in a rental program for your home here. The Lake side Lodge will be finished in 2022 with 36 suites with private balconies. Two luxury apartment buildings are also in the plan for 2022 if you would like to rent prior to buying.
The Owl’s Nest Resort offers the ultimate golf experience, gorgeous scenic views, and an award-winning restaurant, all at a luxury resort community. Today having it all right in your backyard is the ultimate living experience, what better place to have that experience than in the White Mountains National Forest at one of New England’s top resorts. The new trend in resort living has become one of the most popular choices in real estate today.
A RESORT LIFE CAN BE YOURS IN THE WHITE MOUNTAINS Kristen Phelps Photography
The Owl’s Nest offers full four-season liv ing with expansive amenities in a beauti ful mountain setting. For winter activities, close proximity to all the major ski areas, unappareled cross country and snowmo bile trails, skating, and much more make it a winter wonderland. The fall foliage is amazing for hiking, mountain biking, plat form tennis or lakeside fun at the resorts, extensive sports facilities, or great restau rants. There literally is nothing better than having a resort-side second home that you can enjoy in any season. The expansion of Owl’s Nest will not only allow people to experience the getaway of a lifetime but will also provide various real estate opportunities to own a vaca tion home in such an exciting and upTHE NEW OWL’S NEST LIVING
62 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF
“For
of
Resort:
The Owl’s Nest 18-hole championship is the only Nicklaus designed course in New Hampshire. A Jack Nicklaus experience typically comes with a high premium, and a green fee under $100 is rare. Recently, Jack’s course at the Owls Nest received accolades at one of the “Top Ten Best Val ue Nicklaus Golf Courses” in the world coming in at number #6 by Golf Pass. When conditions are less than perfect out side, the resort also features a SkyTrak indoor golf simulator which is conveniently located in the Sports Nest. Four Season Homes The Owl’s Nest offers various choices for both accommodations and custom de sign/build residences. The choices are endless. Southlake Townhomes offer 2-bedroom, 2-bath, 1250 square foot res idences with oversized garages. The Northlake Villas offer mountain views, 2320 square foot single-family homes with 3-bedrooms and 2.5-baths with lofts, studies, and two-car garages. There are magnificent choices at the resort for beautiful mountain view lots for larger custom-designed homes as well. Living Here There are few places anywhere in the Northeast that offer this location’s vast amenities and uncompromised beauty. A home at the Owl’s Nest will become your go-to place in any season for your family and friends for generations to come. Come to The Owl’s Nest and make mem ories for a lifetime.
Real
STEP INTO YOUR
you
Experience
OUR
NORTHEAST.GOLF | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 63 and-coming location. The Owl’s Nest’s expansion is planned to continue into 2023, and will include 2 luxury apartment buildings, the “Lakeside Lodge” with 36 hotel room suites with private balconies, and Phase 2 of the Hotel Village which will include standalone units and bou tique hotels with a brand-new spa and fitness facility as well as lifestyle-inspired upscale restaurant, and more.
is all about” SPECTACULAR HOMES TO CALL YOUR OWN
TOGETHER WE ARE REIMAGING
activities
Cradled by the
Live
Exceptional Golf Living
The Owl’s Nest Resort Your Entrance to The White Mountains COMMUNITY MOUNTAIN LIVING more those moments where stop life Northlake Villas Southlake Townhomes SANCTUARY majestic White Mountains and surrounded by hardwood forest that put each seasons beauty on display make The Owl’s Nest a premier vacation and living destination. the very best in indoor and outdoor mountain with restaurants, vast amenities at a community that offers a life well lived. A place for every season in a community for every family. life to its fullest at the Owl’s Nest. www.owlsnestresort.com 603.726.3076 Estate:Broker:www.owlsnestresort.com/buy-a-homeTomDeMatteo401.648.5308
and think, what
www.owlsnestresort.com/buy-a-home
64 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 | NORTHEAST.GOLF TOTAL COVERAGE OF EVERY HOLE • IntelliGreen Pro, IntelliPath, Dynamic HoleVue and much more • Pre-loaded with 35,000+ ground-mapped courses • WiFi to download latest course updates • Stunning sunlight-readable HD displays • Multi-round battery life The only GPS units with the abilitly to give distances to the pin with PinPoint® Technology. Play faster with instant yardages to every hazard and layup point. www.skygolf.com Pay over time with SAVE $50 Now - July 11
S I M U L A T O R S 4 1 9 - 4 7 0 - 9 8 9 0 W W W . C L A R I T Y . G O L F
