FEBRUARY • MARCH 2021 | VOLUME 4 |3 ISSUE 1 5 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020 | VOLUME | ISSUE
BAJA CALIFORNIA Sur DREAMIN’ Discover Los Cabos: 2021’s Destination of the Year
Pro Shop
• Shoes & Rain Gear • The Long Game: Woods & Hybrids • Distance Measuring Devices
Around the Game
+
• Where Are They Now? • Shop Local: Spargo Golf
The Bucket List
• USGA Championship Tracks in the Northeast • Communities with Must Play Courses
THE VALLEY FORGE & MONTGOMERY COUNTY EXPERIENCE: Montgomery County, Pennsylvania is home to 50 golf courses, including some of the most historic and top-ranked courses in the country. And with 80 nearby hotels,
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incredible attractions and delicious dining options, Montgomery County isn’t just a place to golf. it’s a destination. FEATURED: PHILADELPHIA CRICKET CLUB
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THE GREATEST GOLF STORIES ARE LIVED, NOT TOLD. Crowned as the highest-rated golf collection in all of Florida, Streamsong is home to three Top 100 U.S. courses. With customizable stay and play experiences, year-round warm weather and three distinct layouts from golf architecture’s most iconic foursome (Coore/Crenshaw, Doak, & Hanse), Streamsong rivals the greatest golf venues in the world.
1000 Streamsong Drive • Bowling Green, Florida 33834 • 833.824.7490 • streamsongresort.com
INSIDE FEBRUARY • MARCH 2021 VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 1
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COVER STORY
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Baja California Sur Dreamin’: Los Cabos is 2021’s Must-Visit Destination Spend a
day in Los Cabos 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.
A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS
Southwest Resorts for Couples
37
AROUND THE GAME
David Southworth: Charting a New Course
SWEEPSTAKES SATURDAYS
56
BUCKET LIST
ENTER TO WIN AMAZING PRIZES
The Manchester Club of Vermont
Greener Fairways are ahead at The Manchester Club of Vermont,
continued
Visit: Northeast.Golf/WIN
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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PRO SHOP {THE LONG GAME}
29 39
MOLORI UNPLUGGED
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ROSS’S RULES
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AROUND THE GAME
49
THE BUCKET LIST
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COURSES & CLUBS
59
GOLF COURSE LIVING
Then and Now for New England PGA Pros
34
Spargo Golf: The Right Clubs
Francis Ouimet’s Improbable U.S. Open Victory
USGA Championship Tracks in the Northeast
FASHION
{SHOES & RAIN GEAR}
41 NOBULL DUST SUEDE
A Bucket List Course and Support a Charity Pro-Am
Live on a Bucket List Golf Course
2019 NATIONAL GOLF COURSE OF THE YEAR The Heather BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA BOYNE Golf — Forbes.com — 100 GREATEST PUBLIC COURSES The Heather #92, Links/Quarry #80 — Golf Digest — EDITOR’S CHOICE BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor — Golf Digest — TOP 100 RESORTS Buddies Trip BOYNE Golf Luxury Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor — GOLF Magazine & GOLF.com —
AS PURE AS IT GETS The time to book Northern Michigan’s Best is NOW! Visit BOYNEgolf.com or call 866.721.4033 for more details.
FROM THE EDITOR FA I R P L AY
“Think, Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, California coastal resorts and Palm Springs if you’re looking West Coast. Scottsdale, Tucson and Texas offer some of the best facilities with top amenities.”
The Bucket List Only one Lifetime – Make it Count
A
BUCKET LIST is a list of everything you want to be, do, have, and experience in life. If you want to live a life filled with achievement, success, fun, and adventure, you need to dream big. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to focus on what’s ahead and redefine our “Bucket Lists” by proximity and accessibility. While Ireland and Scotland, Europe and Asia have a place on our list, it may be time to reshuffle the deck to more accessible and attainable North American destinations. How easy it is to forget how much there is right here in the confines of our own backyard. At the top of everyone’s list is of course “The Masters” in April. While tickets are available, there will be fewer attendees making this a bit of a challenge. This season’s best bet for tickets may well be the 43rd Ryder Cup being held in Kohler Wisconsin at Whistling Straights. Attending the Ryder Cup and playing some Wisconsin golf this Fall would be amazing. Let’s not forget the host of other great tournaments around the country that make for great stay, play and attend vacations; they are in every region in the country throughout the year. Golf destinations all over North American are open for business with new safety protocols and some of the very best promotions and pricing ever. Think,
Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, California coastal resorts and Palm Springs if you’re looking West Coast. Scottsdale, Tucson and Texas offer some of the best facilities with top amenities. Let’s not forget south of the border new top destinations, like Los Cabos which is fast becoming one of the world’s top destinations for spectacular golf resorts and courses. In the midwest, the Ozarks Big Cedar Lodge, which has pushed its way onto everyone’s list with the opening of Tiger Wood’s designed Payne’s Valley and other spectacular courses by Nicklaus, Palmer, Watson, Player, Fazio, Coore and Crenshaw. Throughout the Southeast, Florida and the Northeast, you will find some of the most prolific and historic golf resorts in the world. Sea Island, Kiawah, Pinehurst, The Greenbrier are just the beginning. Just north of the border in Canada from Nova Scotia to Vancouver, there are amazing destinations. It’s time to move forward, venture out, one bucket list destination at a time. Make your plan, pack your bags and make lifetime memories.!
Timothy R. Branco Editor, Northeast Golf
Submit Your News & More at:
www.Northeast.Golf/submit 8
F EB RUA RY / M A RC H 2 021 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
CHIP IN FORE SMGA VETERANS Editor / Publisher Timothy R. Branco Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Sampson greg@nepubinc.com Sales Paul Mignosa paul@nepubinc.com Creative Director Chris Lewis Creative Multimedia Kate Porter, Manager Contributing Editor David DeSmith Contributors Timothy Branco Dirk Van Der Broek Leigh MacKay Paul Mignosa John Molori Jack Ross Greg Sampson Alice & Danny Scott Ed Travis Henry Wallmeyer Matt Ward Phil Werz Nick Heidelberger Client Relations Mary Branco
DONATE A ROUND OF GOLF AT YOUR GOLF CLUB TO BE AUCTIONED OFF FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE SALUTE MILITARY GOLF ASSOCIATION WARRIOR GOLF PROGRAMS. To Donate a Round Visit:.
WWW.SMGA.ORG/CHIPIN Proceeds will provide golf lessons taught by PGA professionals and TaylorMade Golf clubs for our SMGA Veteran members.
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Scott Allen, SMGA Executive Director scott@salutemilitarygolf.org Jerry Shanahan, SMGA New England jerrys@smgaboston.org
Information about the SMGA’s Mission, Programs & Locations
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COVER STORY LOS CABOS
Quivira Los Cabos Golf Club 5th Hole
Baja California Sur Dreamin’ Los Cabos is 2021’s Must-Visit Destination
W
ith so many people working from home these days, offices are becoming lonely places. But at the tip of Baja California Sur, on a sun-splashed strip of sand called Médano Beach, there’s one office that’s bucking the trend. The Office, as it’s called, has to be one of the world’s most alluring restaurants. Its multi-colored tables sit right on the beach and serve up a dazzling view of El Arco, The Arch, Cabo’s most famous natural attraction. The fresh fish tacos, ceviche, and other Mexican specialties are the perfect complement to the tequila-infused drinks served with a smile at the bar. At this office, the only work being done is the diligent pursuit of happiness—as is the case throughout beautiful Los Cabos.
By David DeSmith 10
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Courtesy of Evan Schiller
Puerto Los Cabos Golf Club
Costa Palmas Golf Club From the minute you land at San Jose del Cabo International Airport, you’ll know you’re in for a special experience. Within steps of the arrivals hall, Los Cabos welcomes you with a phalanx of lively, open-air bars. Stopping for an ice-cold cerveza or margarita before you head to your hotel is practically mandatory. En 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 Los Cabos 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.
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Cabo Real Golf Club The golf in Los Cabos is a lot like what you’ll find in the American southwest. It’s target golf on ribbons of emerald green turf, only with stunning ocean views. You’ll enjoy dramatic views of the sea from every course— when you’re not contending with sandy waste areas and ball-hungry arroyos or stopping for refreshment at the courses’ bountiful comfort stations, or chocitas, where smiling chefs serve up fresh fish tacos and players oil their swings with bracing nips of mezcal. Some of the Los Cabos courses have tee sheets that are open to everyone, including the three Questro Group courses (Puerto Los Cabos, Cabo Real, and Club Campestre San Jose), Cabo Del Sol’s Cove Club, and the three thrilling nines at Palmilla GC. To gain access to Los Cabos’ other premier courses, you’ll need to be the guest of an affiliated hotel. Here’s what you need to know: > Quivira GC – requires stay at one of the four stellar Pueblo Bonito hotels: 12
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adults-only Pacifica, family-friendly Sunset Beach, the Rose Resort & Spa, or the Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos Beach Resort > Rancho San Lucas GC – requires stay at one of the Solmar Hotels and Resorts, including the Solmar Rancho
The Office on The Beach Restaurant
San Lucas and Solmar Land’s End. > Diamante (Dunes or El Cardonal Courses) – requires stay in one of Diamante’s luxurious villas, casitas or suites. > Chileno Bay GC - requires stay at Chileno Bay Resort, a stunning
COVER STORY LOS CABOS
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort and Spa
Auberge property. > Costa Palms GC – requires stay at the splendid new Four Seasons Resort on the peninsula’s East Cape These courses all offer exceptional experiences—and make any hotel transfers necessary more than worth the effort.
Rancho San Lucas 17th Hole
Indoors, Los Cabos shines just as brightly. The area offers a wide variety of hotel options, including some nice choices at lower rates. But luxurious properties with dazzling architecture and a wealth of on-property amenities are more the norm. Along with the hotels
already mentioned, other great options include the J.W. Marriott with its clean, ultramodern design; The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, situated in its own private cove surrounded by cliffs; and Esperanza, another Auberge property that’s a favorite of the Hollywood crowd.
The Arch Cabo San Lucas
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Pueblo Bonito Pacifica 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. Boating excursions to see The Arch or go whale-watching are popular, too—as are the diving and snorkeling in the clear, blue waters. For sightseeing, you’ll want to divide your time between lively Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, where the pace is decidedly slower. Cabo San Lucas, especially in the busy harbor area, is where you’ll find restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that pulse with energy late into the night. Good dining choices include Los Tres Gallos (The Three Roosters) for its authentic local fare, Nicksan Cabo for their otherworldly sushi, and Edith’s, a perennial favorite that’s just up the hill from its sister restaurant, The Office. For nightlife, go to Squid Roe or Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina. At the other end of the tourist corridor, San Jose del Cabo is your destination for quieter cultural experiences, like its must-see Thursday night art walk. 14
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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 Internova Travel Group. Sean Winton, Founder and President of Distincte Travel Group, thinks Los Cabos will be one of 2021’s hottest golf travel destinations. “Golf pilgrimages to the famed links courses of Scotland and Ireland are off the table,” Winton said, “at least until mid-season 2022 or early 2023. Simply put, there’s just very little available inventory. 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
Los Cabos Mexico Couples Golf Fiesta A Celebration of the Game Dec 1 - 6, 2021
Cabo del Sol’s Cove Club 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.” For Cabos San Lucas Travel Safety Information go to: visitloscabos.travel/ industry/los-cabos-with-care/
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.
Full Inclusive Package Includes 5 Nights at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort 4 Rounds of Golf: Puerto Los Cabos Rancho San Lucas Cabo del Sol Cove Quivira All-Inclusive Food and Drinks at 4 Pueblo Bonito Resorts All Airport / Golf Transfers Welcome Reception / Farewell Receptions Welcome Gift Bag Concierge Services of Cabo Golf & Lifestyle Representatives
Package Prices Starting at:
Golfer - $3,350
Non-Golfer - $2,245
Don’t miss out, as this event will sell out. Book now to hold your place! Palmilla Golf Club
FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.CaboGolfLife.com • 877.327.0058 NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS THE SOUTHWEST
Southwest Resorts for Couples BY ALICE & DANNY SCOTT
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
T
here is nothing like a getaway
to spice up a relationship and now more than ever, couples might need a change of scenery. Call it travel therapy, navigating inevitable roadblocks with humor to explore new activities, indulge in luxury or simply retreat with a different point of view. Lingering pandemic precautions make it safer and more appealing for couples to journey together. Golf courses are designed in the prettiest places, so whether one or both play the game, here are 15 special golf resorts in the southwest for couples to feast and frolic when ready, with masks and sanitizer, of course. NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS THE SOUTHWEST
Arizona Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is for lovebirds – literally, the peach
Segways, carts and TurfRiders (think scooters). Scotch tasting and
faced, green/blue- feathered flocks, flit between swaying palms. El
fine dining top the day off.
Toro, one of four restaurants overlooks the 18th hole of the TPC
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/phxws-the-westin-kierland-resort-and-spa/
Stadium Golf Course, home to the Waste Management Phoenix Open with the Champions Course next door. Guests enjoy six pools,
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is where “desert
premium boutiques and a phenomenal spa. Evening romance is
romance meets outdoor adventure.” Tom Weiskopf’s Monument and
ignited by firepits. www.fairmont.com/Scottsdale
Pinnacle Courses provide premium real estate for wildlife and celebrities. In the shadows of Pinnacle Peak Mountain, bobcats,
The Boulders Resort and Spa is named for the ancient, gigantic granite rocks that dot the landscape. Guest casitas and villas serve as desert cradles, many bordering the two 18-hole championship courses. The Golden Door Spa features a labyrinth and Tai chi lessons from a real Chinese guru. Rock climbing, hot air ballooning and desert jeep tours can be arranged. www.theboulders.com
The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa pays tribute to Scotland. A bagpiper summons golfers home, with a brilliant sunset backdrop. Three nines- Acacia, Ironwood, and Mesquite may be played in rented kilts with a fleet of fun golf transport options - Golfboards, Golfbikes, The Boulders Resort and Spa 18
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Texas The Ritz Carlton at Dove Mountain
Horseshoe Bay Resort
javelinas or roadrunners are seen by day with star gazing by night.
Horseshoe Bay Resort rocks along Lake LBJ with Slick Rock, Apple
Guests are wrapped in the lap of luxury with Troon quality service.
Rock and Ram Rock courses by RTJ Sr. plus Nicklaus’s Summit Rock
www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale
and a tropical 18 hole putting course surrounding the circular Whitewater 360 Bar. Lounge at the lakeside pool with the largest
The Phoenician has revitalized every aspect of the famous resort. The
jacuzzi in Texas or cruise the lake on a rented pontoon, kayak or
relocated Phoenician Spa includes a rooftop pool with striking views.
paddleboard at The Marina. www.hsbresort.com
Architect Phil Smith converted the original 27 holes into a full and fun 18-hole resort golf course, managed again by Troon. The resort hugs
La Cantera Resort and Spa hosted the Texas Valero Open for 15
Camelback Mountain for scenic hikes. The area has over 200 golf
years on their Resort Course. Discover Hill Country wineries or head
courses and a plethora of outdoor dining venues.
to the San Antonio River Walk where barge cruises are a blast sailing
www.thephoenician.com
by the shops, restaurants and museums. Consider stopping at Paris Hatters for a Stetson hat like the Pope did. And remember The
Loew’s Ventana Canyon is member owned with spacious all-suite
Alamo. www.lacanteraresort.com
accommodations for guests at The Lodge. Ventana means window in Spanish and the two Ventana Canyon Golf courses serve as tee to
Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa is hidden in the hill country
green windows to the Santa Catalina Mountains and Sabino Canyon.
surrounding the capitol of Texas with four championship courses,
Relax by the pool and lush landscaping, hit the sports courts or
two by Fazio rated #1 and #3 by Golf Magazine plus Coore
explore the vibrant southwest pueblo that is Tucson.
Crenshaw and Arnold Palmer designs. The city of Austin is also
www.loewshotels.com/ventana-canyon
known as the music capitol with over 250 live venues - ideal for couples to swing, swoon and croon.
The Ritz Carlton at Dove Mountain has 26 miles of hiking trails with
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/austin-barton-creek
guided tours combined with 27 holes that Jack Nicklaus carved into the canyons and arroyos. The infinity pool overlooks the Tucson valley while iconic saguaros loom like giants marching to the crest above the resort. Sunset Celebrations spotlight a Native American flautist on the hillside, as his harmonious chords echo through the canyon. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/arizona/dove-mountain NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS THE SOUTHWEST
Los Cabos
Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort is all inclusive and exclusively for adults. Jack Nicklaus’s dramatic Quivira course is for guests and members only. After golf, couples might laze in the intimate canopied swing beds on the beach, share a massage or shuttle to Cabo San Lucas for a boat tour and snorkeling around Land’s End and the famous Arch. www.pueblobonito.com/resorts/pacifica
One & Only Palmilla is a five-star stunning property, secluded on one of the few swimmable beaches in the area. Pools are strategically perched for whale watching. Three nines by Nicklaus and managed by Troon Golf are challenging and thrilling. The Ocean Course number 3’s green teases the beach with perhaps a yacht on the water and mansions above for the gallery. www.oneandonlyresorts.com/palmilla
Grand Solar at Rancho San Lucas is the newest resort in Los Cabos with three types of luxurious accommodations, all with ocean views. Every hole of Greg Norman’s signature course also has a sweeping Pacific Ocean view. Spanning three different ecosystems, it is perfectly situated within 30 minutes of artisan shopping, downtown nightlife and the San Jose del Cabo International Airport. www.ranchosanlucas.com Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort
The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa annually hosts the first LPGA major event. Mountain views mirror off the lake where the winner traditionally takes her plunge. Palm Springs Walk of Stars is minutes away along with high end shops and homes of the rich and famous. Take the Celebrity Tour or feel like a star yourself, in the sunny Palm Springs area. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pspwi-the-westin-mission-hillsgolf-resort-and-spa/
Indian Wells Golf Resort partners with four hotels in walking distance, the Hyatt Regency, Miramonte, Indian Wells Resort Hotel, and Renaissance Esmeralda, all with spas. Vue Grille & Bar is well named with a patio for watching the desert scenery and golfers. The Celebrity Course plays against the San Jacinto mountain background. The Players Course by John Fought is a shot maker’s delight. www.indianwellsgolfresort.com
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Palm Springs The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa
Enter to Win
A LUXURIOUS CABOS SAN LUCAS GOLF VACATION FOR FOUR GOLFERS
SCAN TO
ENTER
5 NIGHTS AT GRAND SOLMAR RANCHO SAN LUCAS 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF AT RANCHO SAN LUCAS, PUERTO LOS CABOS & CABO REAL AIRPORT & GOLF TRANSPORTATION
ENTER AT CABOGOLFLIFE.COM NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
21
*** air flights not included. restrictions apply. see website for details
Balance, Stability, Accuracy, Distance, Comfort
“The Distance Golf Shoe”
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It all started with the patented SQAIRZ toe that allows the golfer to setup properly on every shot with more room in the forefoot area that provides full range of motion for your feet. That development led to a more stable platform with custom cleats and nubs under specific pressure points created during your golf swing with an integrated heel stabilizer system that assist with rotational torque. What sounds complex is actually quite simple, better foundation, better balance, means a better golf swing and more distance too! sqairz.com/shop
FASHION
{SHOES & RAIN GEAR} By Paul Mignosa
GREYSON PETOSKEY JACKET - $375.00 The Petoskey Jacket protects against all elements of nature with a seam sealed interior and technical waterproof materials to keep you dry without compromising functionality. Greysonclothiers.com
FOOTJOY TARLOW - $220.00 The Tarlow collection, a modern interpretation of the timeless cap toe design, uses a natural grain leather in the vamp and the quarter, complimented by a coordinated croc print in the heel, cap toe and eyestay. The midsole is complimented by a natural leather welt and contrast stitch. These are a must own for 2021!! FOOTJOY.COM NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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FASHION SHOES
DUCA DEL COSMA MASTERS - $259.00 In a mix of nappa leather and patent leather, these solid shoes reveal a sleek appearance while showcasing legacy craftsmanship. What’s more, Masters golf shoes are waterproof as well as breathable and anti-bacterial, and with the Arneflex® insole, you’ll be comfortably playing all day long. Italian design, handcrafted in Europe. DUCADELCOSMA.US SQAIRZ ARROW - $199.97 Ground Reaction Force. You create this force which is sent into the ground and then back up through your body and into the club head. This is how swing speed and distance is created. SQAIRZ unique design facilitates more energy exchange with the ground resulting in an increase of 2.2 mph in swing speed and 8.8 yards of distance. SQAIRZ.COM
GFORE MG4+ - $225.00 The mg4+ is the perfect combination of lightweight comfort and technical performance. Built upon the classic necessities of a golf shoe, but with a modern perspective; the mg4+ boasts a triple density foam cushion footbed and auextic lattice midsole for rebound, paired with a fully waterproof exterior and 3d molded external heel cup for additional support. GFORE.COM
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NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM PACE-SL BOA - $119.95 The combination of a new Fresh Foam midsole and BOA Fit System delivers the ultimate walking shoe for golfers by providing a secure fit, perimeter stability, and comfort in every step. The Fresh Foam midsole has been reengineered to provide increase stability, support, and comfort. If you don’t own a pair of NB’s, then you’re missing out! Available March 1st, 2021. NEWBALANCE.COM
ADIDAS TOUR360 XT-SL - $170 TOUR360 XT-SL TEXTILE - $180 Comfort and confidence go hand in hand. The adidas TOUR360 XT-SL Textile Golf shoes offer a stable platform and dry comfort to improve your confidence on the course. Every drive and putt feels right when your focus stays on the ball. ADIDAS.COM
BIION RED, WHITE AND BLUE - $85.00 Classic, with a touch of unordinary. The dash of color make your shoes pop, whether they’re partly hidden by slacks or nothing at all. All Biion shoes are designed with anti micro-bacterial composites, breathable holes, and a shock-absorbent innersole with innovative massage nodes for optimal comfort. BIION.COM
FOOTJOY HYPERFLEX - $170.00 Tuned specifically for golf to deliver crazy-soft comfort and performance along with support that returns energy to the golfer. Features an advanced midsole/ outsole combo that includes two new technologies that provide unrivalled comfort and performance where you need it out on the golf course. FOOTJOY.COM
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FEB RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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FASHION RAIN GEAR
FOOTJOY HYDROTOUR JACKET - $295.00 | PANTS - $215.00 The all-new HydroTour rain jacket/pants is designed to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Made specifically for golf with material that is quiet, comfortable, waterproof and moves with you during the golf swing, HydroTour will keep you warm and dry whether you’re playing in the northeast or the northern coast of Scotland. Footjoy.com
GALWAY BAY ALL WEATHER JACKET - $299.00 | PANTS – $184.00 Hailed as the Best Rain Gear of 2019 by MyGolfSpy, Galway Bay’s All-Weather Jacket uses proprietary Hydro-Flex 32 fabric – the most breathable waterproof technology in the industry. It’s strong and durable, without any “bulk.” The design moves with you, so you can swing comfortably. Galwaybaygolf.com
SUN MOUNTAIN RAINFLEX ELITE – JACKET $199 | PANTS – $199.99 The RainFlex Elite Jacket and pants are constructed with a new 4-way stretch, knit fabric that was initially tested in rainy, humid SE Asian countries. Previous versions of RainFlex had an 8K/8K waterproof/breathable rating, while the new RainFlex Elite has a 15K/15K rating. Like original RainFlex, the Elite is distinguished by its quietness, 4-way stretch and overall comfort when playing. Two-year waterproof guarantee. Shop.sunmountain.com
CALLAWAY STORMGUARD JACKET $190.00 | PANT $160.00 Designed with SWING TECH™ construction and mechanical four-way stretch fabric, the StormGuard waterproof jacket and pants offer golfers superior range of motion in even the toughest of elements. The full-zip breathable waterproof jacket, available in three colors, is built with adjustable storm cuffs for added protection while the pants, offered in multiple lengths, features an adjustable hem for the perfect fit. Callawayapparel.com
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NOW, GOLF SEASON NEVER HAS TO END
Imagine having the technology to play golf anytime and in any way, and the insight to take your game to the next level. SkyTrak is a personal launch monitor that delivers instant and real-time 3D shot analysis and ball-flight data. Plus, enhance your SkyTrak experience with a highdefinition simulation package.
Elevate Your Game at WWW.SKYTRAKGOLF.COM 28
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PRO SHOP
{ D R I V E R S | FA I RWAY S | H Y B R I D S } The Long Game You know what they say, “Drive for Show.” Here are some of my favorite 2021 equipment lines that will help you launch the ball longer off the tee, straighter down the fairway, into more par fives in two and hit more long par threes in regulation! By Greg Sampson
TOUR EDGE EXOTICS 721 SERIES | WWW.TOUREDGE.COM DRIVER $400, FAIRWAY $250, HYBRID $220
The 721 Series features amazing new innovations from David Glod and team all handbuilt in the USA. The lineup all feature the Ridgeback Technology support system, Diamond Face 2.0, an adjustable rear back-weight and SpeedTested shafts. The driver and fairway metals have wrap around Dual Carbon Wings from the sole to crown while the hybrid has a solid carbon crown which combined with the newly positioned Sound Diffusion Panels produce the sweetest sounding, best feeling equipment in on the planet. All these new innovations lead to two major areas of focus: power and feel. The end result is a brand-new stratosphere of power, feel and performance for Exotics! NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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PROSHOP D R I V E R S | FA I RWAY S | H Y B R I D S
COBRA GOLF RADSPEED METALS | WWW.COBRAGOLF.COM DRIVER $450, FAIRWAY $280, HYBRID $230 The Radspeed features Radial Weighting for Radical Distance through optimized weighting and an array of advanced technologies across the entire line. Choose from three unique drivers: the Radspeed for faster swingers, the Radspeed XB for more distance from forgiveness/stability and the Radspeed XD for longer drives by reducing a slice or creating a draw. The fairways and hybrids feature the perfect balance of front and back weighting to deliver low spin, faster ball speed, and high launch. Hollow Baffler Rails create more speed and improve turf interaction for consistent contact. Cobra Conect automatic shot tracking is featured in every club powered by Arccos Golf.
MIZUNO SHOWTIME SERIES | WWW.MIZUNOGOLF.COM DRIVER $400, FAIRWAY $300 The new ST-Z and ST-X further deploy Mizuno’s high strength, Forged Beta SA T2041 Ti face and complex carbon construction to deliver potent ball speeds and a dense, satisfying sensation at impact. The Forged Beta SAT2041 TI maintains its characteristics and resists micro fractures. The ST Series is widely played on all global tours offering a choice between two different driver head designs, the ST-Z & ST-X, with characteristics to suit different playing requirements and deliver different ball flights. The ST-Z fairway offers curves for the purist and performance for the pragmatist providing high levels of stability and low spin efficiency. This fairway metal has insanely powerful MAS1C face, ultra-lightweight carbon crown e3 and an adjustable, quick-switch hosel offering 4 degrees of loft and face angle adjustability.
PXG GOLF 0211 COLLECTION | WWW.PXGGOLF.COM DRIVER $375, FAIRWAY $325, HYBRID $275 The 0211’s feature crazy distance, unbelievable forgiveness, huge sweet-spots, an extremely soft feel, and smoking hot looks. These new PXG woods and hybrids introduce a railed sole geometry and innovative new head shapes to support an ideal balance of distance and forgiveness. Both the fairway woods and hybrids present an AM355 body material and an HT1770 face and loft/lie adjustability, plus a weight-forward design that promotes low spin and helps increase ball speed and distance.
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SRIXON ZX WOODS | WWW.SRIXON.COM DRIVER ZX7:$530 & ZX5 $500, FAIRWAY $270, HYBRID $230 The ZX woods were designed for speed thanks to the unique structure of the new Rebound Frame Technology that increases ball speed and distance on every shot, especially center-face impacts. A 15% increase in the Crabon Crown repositions mass pushing MOI up and increasing forgiveness. The single weight in the ZX5 driver and two weights in the ZX7 allow for CG adjustments and both have an adjustable hosel to variations in loft, lie and face angle. The fairway woods and hybrids feature a stepped crown which lowers the center of gravity for optimized launch to hit it longer down the fairway and hold more greens.
WILSON STAFF D9 WOODS | WWW.WILSONGOLF.COM DRIVER $350, FAIRWAY $220, HYBRID $200 The D9 driver features a Peak Kinetic Response Face provides amazing distance with greater forgiveness and higher ball speeds. The 3-piece lightweight Komposite Crown intertwines Kevlar and layers of carbon fiber to neutralize vibration, generate faster clubhead speeds and produce amazing sound. A thin, hot face is featured on the fairway woods and hybrids from milled Carpenter Custom 455 steel for longer distance and improved feel, even on offcenter hits. The fairway metals sit neutral at address and progressively change shape from hybrid to hybrid transitioning into the irons.
PING GOLF G425 SERIES | WWW.PINGG425.COM DRIVER $500, FAIRWAY $300, HYBRID $270 Led by the most forgiving driver ever, the G425 Max driver, big performance gains were achieved across the new G425 family including each club being powered by Arccos Caddie Smart Grips and Smart Sensor Technology. The G425 LST offers low spin and the G425 SFT is draw bias to match your swing and launch conditions. Movable tungsten weights that vary by model to increase MOI are allowed by the drivers’ Dragonfly Crown. The G425 fairway woods & hybrids are designed to launch higher and further to carry bunkers and hold more greens. A new 3-dot alignment feature provides golfers with the best visual cue to address the ball available on the market today.
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PRO SHOP AXIS1
Perfect Balance / Torque Free Putters
Axis1 is simply the most innovating perfectly balanced putter in the game today. Nearly half of our strokes in a round of golf are putts, so it makes perfect sense to use a putter that gives you a better chance to make more of them and improve your score in every round.
Veteran PGA Tour & European Tour professional Justin Rose signed on as an ambassador with Axis1and has been using the
Axis1 offers the first 100% perfectly balanced putters in the game.
Axis1Rose model. Since switching to the Axis1 in 2019, Rose set
Because Axis1 putters are perfectly balanced, they don’t naturally
career bests in Total Putting (13th), Putting Avg. (5th), Overall
open-up, resulting in more on-line putts and lower scores. Their
Putting Avg. (3rd), One-Putt Pct (3rd) and 3-Putting Avoidance
putters accomplished this special feat by pushing the weight
(8th). Rose also won the Famer’s Insurance Open and tied for the
forward with a patented heel counterweight that, for the very first
lowest round ever at the US Open at Pebble Beach needing only 22
time, places the center of gravity right on the center of the striking
putts on route to a 65. Rose also shot his lowest ever 9-hole score of
face and perfectly aligned with the axis of the shaft. The end result
28 at the Dunhill Links.
is straighter, more consistent putts that simply more often than not, are at the target.
Go to www.axis1golf.com Today and Get Your Balance On!
“The Axis1 Rose model has been extremely successful both in the green grass and retail channels globally since its launch, and gives consumers the rare ability to walk into a golf shop and buy the exact same product that’s both designed and used by one of the best players in the world.” —Phil Long, Axis1 Golf, VP of Marketing & Sales.
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NOTHING ELSE COMES CLOSE!
PRO SHOP LASERS | GPS
Drop Shots Like It’s Hot
2021 Range Finders, GPS Watches & Handhelds BY Greg Sampson Want to lower your score? Invest time in a device and/or wearable that will improve your course management in 2021 because there is no amount of new equipment, instruction or fitness routine that can replace the knowledge of the distance to a bunker, a hazard or most importantly the flag. Some of these devices now even include green undulation and more. Do yourself a favor. To drop shots like it’s hot off your score in 2021. Invest one of my top new course management devices this season!
SHOT SCOPE PRO L1 $200 | WWW.SHOTSCOPE.COM The Pro L1 is an affordable quick firing laser packed with features making it quick and easy to measure distance. Simple to use the Pro L1 rangefinder is the perfect combination of size, accuracy, and advanced technology. Looking through the precision clear lens, simply press a button to switch between a Red or Black display to scan the course in all light and weather conditions. Adaptive Slope technology and target-lock vibration ensureconfidence from tee to green.
V3 GPS WATCH $220 | WWW.SHOTSCOPE.COM The V3 is a stylish and lightweight GPS watch available in 4 colorrs. The new Power-Sense strap and dual GPS accuracy ensures every shot is recorded automatically while you play. Upload to the mobile app to understand statistics on your game including strokes gained for analysing where a player sits when comparing every aspect of their performance with players in the rest of a dataset. Naturally, V3 comes with all the features of a standard GPS watch, such as green and hazard yardages and 36,000 preloaded courses for your convenience.
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SKYGOLF SKYCADDIE LX5 GPS SMART WATCH WITH CERAMIC BEZEL $350 | WWW.SKYGOLF.COM The new bluetooth and wi-fi enabled SkyCaddie LX5 Smart Watch with the industry’s largest and most-brilliant color touch screen at 1.39 inches. Now available for order, the new LX5 features next generation technology to provide the closest thing to the award-winning SkyCaddie SX500 on your wrist. The hard wearing ceramic bezel is not only scratch and fade resistant but helps to retains that ‘new’ look for longer. Full HD graphics for stunning HoleVue® and IntelliGreen® imagery provides exact shape of the green for distances to front, back and any point in between from your angle of approach. Connect the digital score card and stats tracker to the SkyGolf 360 cloud. Fitness tracking for heart rate, total distance and distance traveled alos included. The LX5 comes includes two user-replaceable, softtouch silicon bands for a comfortable best fit and a battery life of up to two rounds. The best part is that it comes with Includes 3-year worldwide membership providing real-time updates to over 35,000 ground verified course maps and SkyGolf 360 Cloud Service for performance tracking and analysis. Free concierge setup service to include registration and activation when purchased. This is the best watch on the market period!
Enter to Win
BUSHNELL ION EDGE GPS WATCH $150 | WWW.BUSHNELLGOLF.COM This is the first time that the products have a rotating green view. New body style, touch screen and available in two color combinations – Black and Gray. The ION EDGE offers the golfer long battery life (15+ hours), and even more benefits such as a NEW touchscreen display, GreenView with moveable pin placement, Dynamic Green Mapping (front and back distances are shown based on golfer’s line of play), shot distance calculator, and the ability to get up to six hazard distances per hole.
SWEEPSTAKES SATURDAYS
EQUIPMENT FROM TOUR EDGE GPS WATCHES & DEVICES FROM SKYGOLF RACHET BELTS FROM NEXBELT AND MORE........ BUSHNELL THE PHANTOM 2 $130 | WWW.BUSHNELLGOLF.COM The Phantom 2 has evolved with numerous upgrades from its predecessor. Introducing GreenView distances with movable pin placements for more accurate distances, the Phantom 2 now offers “Dynamic Green Mapping,” to provide distance measurements based on a golfer’s line of play. Connect to mobile gps app to update golf courses.
SCAN TO
ENTER
ENTER AT NORTHEAST.GOLF/WIN *** winners announced on the last saturday of the month in 2021. restrictions apply. see website for details
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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“We started the JHH Celebratory Golf Tournament to honor our mom’s memory, and to give hope to other families facing cancer." — SARAH HARRINGTON, Tournament Director
STARTING A GOLF TOURNAMENT IS PERSONAL Organize yours at JimmyFundGolf.org Presented by
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GET ON THE RIGHT COURSE TO FIGHT CANCER® 36
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GFGEN2121422
AROUND THE GAME I T ’ S A N E W D AY
David Southworth Charting a New Course By David DeSmith
A
fter almost thirty years at the helm of Newton, Mass.-based Southworth Development, David Southworth is
moving on. Southworth partnered with Paul Fireman of Reebok fame to create Cape Cod club Willowbend in 1992, then followed that up by fathering numerous other upscale resorts, clubs, and club communities in other parts of the world, including Rio Mar and Coco Beach in Puerto Rico, Starr Pass in Arizona, Liberty National on New York Bay, Machrihanish Dunes in Scotland, and several others. Prior to his departure from the company at the end of 2020, Southworth had added luxe resort-style
excitement about what the future holds, and I’m
communities in Virginia, New Hampshire and
looking forward to everything that comes next.”
The Bahamas to his company’s property roster. But today, he’s looking ahead, not back. “There comes a time in the life of any business
In his role as Founder and CEO of The David Southworth Company, Southworth says he expects to be as active as ever in the creation and
person when you take a pause, reexamine where
management of luxury club communities and
you are, and compare it to where you want to be.
resorts. Initially, he plans to partner with like-
In my case, the decision to move on from the
minded developers and share his development
company I’d built over the past 30 years wasn’t
expertise with them.
an easy one. But I know in my heart of hearts that it was the right one. I have a renewed
“I have a game plan for these kinds of properties that I really like,” Southworth said, “and one that’s proven itself over a lot of years. The opportunity to apply that game plan to some new projects is one I’m tremendously excited about.” The first property Southworth will be advising as he sets sail on these new waters is Cabot Saint Lucia, a luxury club community in the Caribbean being developed by the Cabot team of Ben CowanDewar and Mike Keiser—the same visionaries who gave the world the Cabot Cape Breton golf resort, with its two standout oceanfront courses. In St. Lucia, Southworth is advising the Cabot team on both its master plan and its portfolio of real estate offerings. “Cabot Saint Lucia has all the elements you need to capture the world’s imagination and attract the right kind of buyers,” Southworth said. “It’s an amazing property, and I’m looking forward to helping the team there achieve its goals.” If David Southworth’s track record is any guide, it will be but the first of many successes for him and for his new company. NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
37
PLAY.
PRACTICE.
REPEAT.
Award Winning
Cape Cod
Golf Destination
508-430-5234 CranberryValley.Golf Harwich, MA
MOLORI UNPLUGGED
By John Molori
How it started & how it’s going for New England PGA pros
I
F YOU ARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA, you are probably familiar with How it Started
- How it’s Going. In this popular trend, people post pictures and information on how their careers began and how things are currently. Let’s have some fun and apply this cyber fad to some of the betterknown New England golfers.
2019, she posted a career-best seven top 10 finishes and crossed the $2 million mark in career-earnings. She has also played on the U.S. Solheim Cup team.
Peter Uihlein How it Started: Born in New Bedford, MA, the 31-year-old Uihlein won the 2010 U.S. Amateur at Chambers Bay and turned pro in 2011. He played at Oklahoma State University. How it’s Going: Uihlein won the 2017 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship. At the 2020 LECOM Suncoast Classic, he held a share of the 36-hole lead and the solo lead after 54
Brittany Altomare
holes before finishing 20th.
How it Started: Altomare was born in 1990 in Worcester, MA. She started playing golf at the age of 10 and attended the University of Virginia. How it’s Going: In her full 2019 season, Altomare earned $878,369, good for 26th on the money list. She posted a career-best five top 10 finishes and was a member of the U.S. Solheim Cup team. Megan Khang How it Started: The 23-year-old Khang hails from Brockton, MA and credits her father for influencing her career. She began playing golf at age 5 and also developed a love of snowboarding and fishing. How it’s Going: Khang finished 5th in the 2020 U.S. Women’s Open and tied for 11th at the 2019 Women’s British Open. In
Keegan Bradley How it Started: Bradley was born in Woodstock, VT and is the nephew of LPGA legend Pat Bradley. An all-state ski racer, the 34-year-old attended St. John’s University and turned pro in 2008. How it’s Going: Bradley has earned over $26 million as a pro and scored PGA Tour wins at the 2011 HP Byron Nelson Championship and PGA Championship, 2012 World Golf ChampionshipsBridgestone Invitational, and 2018 BMW Championship. He continues to compete at the highest levels of the game.
Scott Stallings How it Started: The Worcester, MA native attended Tennessee Tech and has been a pro since 2007. At age 12, he saw Tiger Woods win the 1997 Masters and decided to focus on golf. How it’s Going: In 2020, Stallings, 35, advanced to the FedEx Cup Playoffs for a fourth consecutive season and eighth
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39
MOLORI UNPLUGGED PA S T & P R E S E N T
overall, finishing the season No. 120 in the FedEx Cup standings. He posted a pair of top-10 finishes.
Jonathan Curran How it Started: Curran was born in Hopkinton, MA in 1987 and played college golf at Vanderbilt. He turned professional in 2009 and played on the NGA Pro Golf Tour in 2013, winning one event and topping the money list.
Rob Oppenheim
Brett Quigley
How it Started: Oppenheim was born in
How it Started: Brett is a Quigley golf legacy,
Salem, MA and raised in Andover, MA. The
the nephew of Dana and son of Paul. The
40-year-old led Rollins College to the 2002
51-year-old was born in Fort Devens, MA and
national championship and earned his PGA
was a caddie for his Uncle Dana, turning pro
Tour card in 2015.
himself in 1991.
How it’s Going: In 2020, Oppenheim had
How it’s Going: In 2020, Quigley held the
one top-10 and finished the season No. 138
36-hole lead and tied for second at The
in the FedEx Cup standings, highlighted by a
Ally Challenge. He moved to No. 1 in the
tie for 9th at the Puerto Rico Open.
Charles Schwab Cup for the first time and became just the third rookie to top the PGA
How it’s Going: Curran won the 2020
Champions Tour standings.
Qualifying School Contest #3 Presented by Joey D Golf. He earned $5,000 to put towards the Qualifying School entry of his choice. Curran’s best PGA Tour finishes are playoff losses at the 2015 Puerto Rico Open and 2016 Memorial Tournament.
Paul Azinger How it Started: Born in Holyoke, MA, Azinger attended Florida State University. He started playing golf at age 5 and eventually recorded Tim Petrovic How it Started: Born in Northampton, MA, the 54-year-old Petrovic joined the pro ranks in 1988 after graduating from the University of Hartford where he is a member of the Hall of Fame. He once worked as a pizza baker and delivery man. How it’s Going: Petrovic plays on the PGA Champions Tour where, as of January, he was 24th in Charles Schwab Cup points and 60th on the all-time money list. His many interests include cars, music, and film.
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Dana Quigley
12 PGA wins including the 1992 Tour
How it Started: The venerable Quigley,
Championship.
73, was born in Lynn Centre, MA. He
How it’s Going: A golf inspiration for his
attended the University of Rhode Island
courageous battle with cancer, Azinger is
and turned pro in 1971. He has served as
now 61 and has worked for ABC Sports. He
head professional and director of golf at
has been a part of the PGA Champions Tour
Crestwood Country Club in Rehoboth, MA.
for a decade and lives in Bradenton, FL.
How it’s Going: The golf elder statesman resides in West Palm Beach with wife Angie.
Brad Faxon
He amassed nearly $15 million in pro
How it Started: The Rhode Island native still
earnings and won 8 PGA Tour Champions
lives in Barrington. Faxon was born in 1961
events, his last in 2006 at the Greater Kansas
and attended Furman University. He turned
City Golf Classic.
pro in 1983.
instructor during high school. He attended
Cup Playoffs, advancing to the BMW
Northwestern University, graduating in 1987
Championship for the first time.
with an Economics degree. How it’s Going: Quinn has won nearly $3 million as a pro and lives in Holden, MA with his wife Lori. He finished fifth at the 2019 Hoag Classic for his best finish in 12 starts on the PGA Champions Tour. How it’s Going: Faxon has won 8 PGA Tour events and 2 PGA Champions Tour titles. He
James Driscoll
co-runs Billy Andrade/Brad Faxon Charities
How it Started: The Boston native grew up in
for Children and co-hosts the CVS Caremark
Brookline and is the youngest of 7 children.
Charity Classic. In 2015, he received
Driscoll played and studied at the University
the Francis Ouimet Award for lifelong
of Virginia graduating in 2001.
contributions to golf.
How it’s Going: Now in Tequesta, FL, the Jim Renner
43-year-old Driscoll enjoys yoga, boxing, and
How it Started: The Boston native was born
surfing. 2019 was his best pro season finishing
in 1983 and, at age 17, was runner-up at the
at number 116 on the Regular Season points
2001 Massachusetts Amateur. He graduated
list. He posted two top 10s in 17 starts.
from Johnson & Wales University in 2007, the same year he turned pro. How it’s Going: Renner had a medical exemption on the Korn Ferry Tour through Billy Andrade How it Started: Born in Bristol, RI, Andrade graduated from Wake Forest in 1987 and joined the pro ranks. He defeated Jeff Sluman
2020. The Plainville, MA resident is a decorated New England golfer with wins at the Massachusetts Open, Vermont Open, Rhode Island Open, and Maine Open.
in a playoff to win the 1991 Kemper Open.
Brad Adamonis
How it’s Going: In 2019, Andrade, now 56,
How it Started: Adamonis, 47, was
posted three runner-up finishes and a career-
introduced to golf by his grandfather and
best ten top-10s en route to a 13th-place
father in Cumberland, RI. His dad, the
finish in the Charles Schwab Cup. His 70.01
late Dave Adamonis, was the golf coach at
scoring average was 12th best on the PGA
Johnson & Wales University, leading the
Champions Tour and his best since 2014.
team to the 2005 NAIA national title. How it’s Going: Adamonis lives in Florida Richy Werenski
with wife Stacey and children Grace and
How it Started: The 29-year-old Werenski
Nicholas. He competed in the 2020 Bahamas
was born in Springfield, MA, grew up near
Great Exuma Classic at Sandals Emerald Bay.
The Orchards GC in South Hadley, and
Adamonis loves all sports and won the 2007
played golf at Georgia Tech. His dad Michael
WNB Golf Classic on the Korn Ferry Tour.
was a PGA club professional and brother Fran Quinn How it Started: Quinn was born in Worcester, MA in 1965 and was a ski
Mickey played at Texas A&M.
John Molori is an award-winning author and
How it’s Going: In 2020, Werenski won his
columnist for numerous publications. Like him on
first career PGA Tour title at the Barracuda
Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia.
Championship and qualified for the FedEx
Email molorimedia@gmail.com.
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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ROSS’S RULES
By Jack Ross
The Enduring Legacy of Francis Ouimet’s Improbable U.S. Open Victory at Brookline
F
RANCIS OUIMET – A 20-YEAR-OLD FORMER CADDIE at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts – was
over 2 million people to take up the game. It was only fitting that the supremely modest Ouimet
snubbed by the golf aristocracy and defied his stern, work-
insisted on retaining his 10-year-old caddie, Eddie Lowery, for
ing class father’s prohibition to play in the 1913 U.S. Open
the duration of the tournament. USGA officials attempted
held across the street from their humble abode in Brook-
to substitute an experienced caddie, but what mattered
line. The rest is history. Ouimet’s shocking victory over Brit-
most to Ouimet was Eddie’s friendship and loyalty. Ironically,
ain’s best – Harry Vardon and Ted Ray – thrust American
as an investment adviser decades later at Brown Brothers
golf onto center stage and is estimated to have prompted
Harriman in Boston, Ouimet reciprocated by carrying Lowery’s financial bag -- managing the fortune his lifelong friend made in the automobile industry in California. While most golf enthusiasts know of his improbable victory at the Country Club in 1913 (chronicled in the book and movie The Greatest Game Ever Played), fewer appreciate the impact Ouimet has had on golfing’s youth. Although he himself eschewed his celebrity, in 1949 a group of his friends started a scholarship in his honor. No one could have foreseen the remarkable growth of the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund. Colin McGuire, who took over as executive director in 2019, noted that from its origin of funding 13 Francis Ouimet scholars with $4,600, the fund today supports over 400 college students with grants of over $2.5 million per year. The fund (the largest independent scholarship fund in Massachusetts) currently has an endowment of $22 million and has a strategic plan to increase that to $24 million by 2024. “The need for these scholarships is just off the charts” given rising college costs, commented McGuire. McGuire explained that Ouimet scholarships are need-based; amounts received by individual recipients depends
42
F EB RUA RY / M A RC H 2 02 1 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Collin McGuire on their financial situation. To qualify, an applicant must have worked in the golf industry, either as a caddie or in some other position. McGuire himself was a Ouimet Scholar at Denison University, and during high school worked on the grounds crew at a Rhode Island Club. He started as an intern with the Ouimet Fund after graduating in 2003 and rose steadily to the top position over 17 years. “It’s an honor to work here,” he said. “I know how important these scholarships are to allow kids to attend college and not be buried in debt.” But the growth of the Ouimet Fund is a broader testament to Francis Ouimet’s legacy in the game of golf. The Fund’s annual banquet is dubbed “The
Palmer at Ouimet Fund
Largest Golf Dinner in America” and has honored many of golf’s elite over the past several decades. Arnold
27%. “This demonstrates the high esteem they have for our
Palmer received the first Francis Ouimet Award for Lifelong
mission,” said McGuire.
Contributions to Golf in 1997. That event “put the Fund on the
So, while most of the golf world will long remember
map,” said McGuire. “With Arnold as our first recipient that
Francis Ouimet’s impact on the game of golf in prevailing
year, it set the tone for future years and all the greats that
over Vardon and Ray in that playoff in Brookline in 1913,
have followed. We are so proud and fortunate to have honorees
over 5,000 students at colleges around the country have
become our ambassadors,” he commented. The banquet has
experienced a very tangible impact of his legacy. It’s only
generated many of the Fund’s major sponsors and donors.
fitting that the humble caddie from a working-class family
But the pandemic has drastically changed many parts of
is having such an impact on the golfing youth of America,
our society, and the Ouimet Fund banquet is no exception. The
helping them to pursue educational opportunities they
event temporarily has gone virtual. However, the Fund’s board,
might not have afforded. His great-granddaughter once
alumni and donors have stepped up to the plate: even in this
remarked: “He was true to himself.” His loyal friends who
difficult environment, alumni donations increased this year by
started the Ouimet Fund were true to his legacy.
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
43
AROUND THE GAME SHOP LOCAL
Spargo Golf The Right Clubs BY ED TRAVIS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA CHOPY
F
or the past few years one of the growth areas in the golf business has
been club fitting. Not the old-fashioned, Let’s go out to the range and hit a few and then I’ll get the lie board fitting, but one by a trained professional with swing measurements using hi-tech sensors and results shown on a computerized display.
putting surface with us hoping all the while there isn’t a hazard or bunker in front so the flat-arced, barely spinning ball can land in front and roll on. Most of us have been there, and while no one is suggesting a change of the clubs in our bag will suddenly turn us into Dustin Johnson, we can play with equipment that fits and at least in part compensate for our swing’s inadequacies. Sounds simple doesn’t it? However, there is a lot of inaccurate information around starting with only pros
A modern fitter with help from sophisticated
Most of us with the driver – somewhere
and better amateurs should be fit and fittings
computer analysis has the practical knowledge
north of 80% - have that dreaded left to right
to give players significantly improved results,
swipe known as a slice with its weak ball
namely more yards and better control with
flight, lots of side spin that gobbles up yards
practice constantly and use top instructors to
every club. Golf is a hard game, and it makes
and usually has trouble finding the fairway.
groove their swings. It is likely they would
sense to have the equipment to give us the best
No wonder we are always the short guy off
score nearly as well with clubs off the rack, so
chance to score well and have more fun…not
every tee. Or maybe its iron shots without
for them a fitting is really a fine tuning.
make it harder.
enough height so the ball will stop on the
cost a lot of money. Pros and better players have a ton of talent,
As to the cost, the truth is money spent for a
“I began my golfing journey at a young age, can’t really remember not being obsessed with golf. I grew up golfing at Potowomut Golf Club, where my dad caddied and had been a member for years.”
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fitting is a great way to help us ensure our future enjoyment of this great game. Fortunately, in nearby Cranston, Rhode Island there is Spargo Golf, a club fitter par excellence consistently ranked one of the tops in the entire country with a long list of clients who return year after year. We caught up with owner and chief club fitter Jon Pannone to talk about the shop and how he and his staff make golf better for their friends and customers. Ed Travis: Can you give our readers a little of your background in golf and as owner of a premium club fitting operation?
Jon Pannone: I began my golfing journey at a young age, can’t really remember not being obsessed with golf. I grew up golfing at Potowomut Golf Club, where my dad caddied and had been a member for years. My mom is a good player in her own right and my brother played college golf at Penn State and University of Rhode Island. My love of tournament golf must be credited to Dave Adamonis, Steve Feinstein and the late Barry “Gator” Gately. I have been participating in challenge cup events since probably 6 years old and spent a couple years under Coach Drennan at URI. Although I never traveled
Jon Pannone, Owner Spargo Golf
with the team, being on a squad with my ET: How did Spargo Golf get started?
brother meant the world. College and high
caddying. Finally, I moved back home to work
school were able to do that. Also, this is
at the shop with Tom Spargo where he taught
JP: The legends that I heard were that Tom
where I met Tom Spargo.
me everything I know about fitting and
started building clubs for friends and his wife
building clubs.
encouraged him to open a shop and eventually
After my sophomore year I transferred to the University of South Carolina Beaufort and
I consider myself one of the luckiest builders
he was ranked as one of the top 10 builders in
got my Golf Masters. There I was fortunate to
in the industry to learn under him. After a year
the country. Through his desire, skill, and hard
meet two more massive influences in my golf
or so I began taking on more responsibility
work he grew a client list that we still serve to
career, Coach Shane Lebaron and T. Jay Baker.
and more fittings while continuing my pro
this day. His mission was always to give a great
Shane taught me everything I know about ball
career then two years ago Tom retired, and I
experience and passion for making the best
flight and T. started my education on golf
took over. It has been a true honor carrying
clubs for that player. Spargo Golf has been a
clubs. During my time at USCB I was able to
the name and trying to fill his shoes. My first
top name in the fitting industry. As I said, before
be a part of 10 team wins, three national
year was a learning experience to balance life
I wake up, I am honored to wear the name
championship births and Ping First Team all
in the shop and life as a playing professional
and be mentioned in the same sentence as Tom
American. From there I turned pro and moved
but it has been an awesome adventure and the
Spargo, like the great club makers of Scotland.
out West, playing on several mini tours and
future is bright for the brand.
Being a clubmaker is the best job in golf. NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
45
AROUND THE GAME SHOP LOCAL
ET: What is Spargo Golf’s primary mission?
but not something to be obsessed over. The
with how the club frames the ball while
new X3 model is a very cool machine and
explaining the loft gapping and what clubs
JP: Our primary mission is to help golfers
gives us a deeper look into a player’s impact
will be built. Things like that so if a player
through finding their equipment and talking
which in turn helps us fit better.
maybe wants to go with odd number irons to
through the player’s course management, their strengths, and weaknesses. Let’s make the good better, and the bad a little better all while understanding that this was a game we chose for the challenge, exercise and most important, fun. ET: How have the restrictions due to the pandemic effected your business?
JP: This year has been a challenge. One that has made me proud of my putter fitter and chief officer Steve Colette. Inventory has been a nightmare, our lead times have tripled, but since the reopening we have been fitting six
“I consider myself the luckiest golfer in the world because of what we get to do here. Helping players while still competing against some of the best players around, it doesn’t get much better. We love the game, and we love helping players love it more.”
days a week. We have not been able to have anyone except fitting appointments come in the shop, so the personal feel is difficult, but we are managing. Our day to day has not
start, we can provide that. Maybe they only want 8° gap between irons or carry 10 clubs and if we need to fill in gaps or test some yardages, we are here during the season. At the end of the day, I want my player to dictate how they want the set to look, (14 clubs... less than 14, etc.). Our iron fitting covers the hybrids, wedges and irons to gap that section properly. Wedge fittings are on their own and are some of my favorites due to the fact my player and I go out on to the course and see turf interaction. The process doesn’t change no matter the fitting, but with everything dispersion is what makes me the happiest, the distance obsession
ET: Please describe to club fitting process
in the sport is way down on the list.
hybrids, and irons?
ET: How do you fit a player for a new
and is it different for drivers, woods,
changed other than wearing masks and gloves, JP: When a player comes in for a fitting,
putter?
but we are just thankful to be operational and they should expect a comfortable loose
JP: Putter fitting is the forgotten child of
in a sport that is thriving.
atmosphere with an interview while warming
club fitting and we are hoping to change that
up. Find out goals, what they want to
because it’s the only club you touch every hole.
change, improve upon, etc. and I will get
The process and interview are the same, we
ET: Do you sell online and how has that changed over the past year?
static measurements such as height and
want consistency in our fits. With the putter
JP: We have a Shopify store that is a small
wrist to floor. From there I map out the
though we use the Tomi system [T.O.M.I. Putt
percentage of our business. Our model is the
players club we are testing – a 7-iron in this
Lab]. A device that shows us the path of the
fitting and personal experience, so selling
example - figure out the length, lie, swing
players stroke, from there Steve tries to match
online doesn’t totally fit with what makes us
weight, frequency and we can find out why
a putter toe hang to the players stroke, then try
who we are. The part we have been trying to
the player likes or dislikes the club. Then the
counterbalance and other ways to make the
grow is the apparel and accessories side of
testing begins, and we always test against
stroke more consistent. Like the full swing, we
the website. Spread the brand all over even if
current equipment. Our goal is to make you
don’t want this to be a confusing lesson. We
someone can’t physically get to us just yet. We better than when you walked in. Depending
want to build equipment that fits you. Every
would rather be a destination.
golfer’s biomechanics are different.
on the ball flight, strength of swing, release point, dynamic loft we are able to gauge some
ET: What brand of launch monitor do you use for fitting woods and irons and why did you choose that brand?
different shafts to give the player different feels while providing the correct profile in the shaft. While this is going one, we are trying
ET: How much do your fittings cost
and must clubs be purchased after the fitting?
JP: I learned my fitting data on a FlightScope
different head shapes, seeing which one is the
JP: Our single sessions are $150 (driver/
and Tom always had one, but we use it as a
best for the player.
woods, hybrids/irons/wedges or putter) and a
tool, not a crutch. It’s a great comparative tool 46
F EB RUA RY / M A RC H 2 02 1 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
We want the player to feel comfortable
full bag is $400 which includes all the fittings
with a $50 discount. Part of our commitment
face, I want my players to get the same joy I
to be a sponsored golfer since i was a little kid
is after a fitting we include a checkup for the
get out of it, Since I was 20 years old golf
drawing Scotty Cameron putters in notebooks.
player throughout the season. Golf is always
has provided me a life. I consider myself the
So now I can put the very best in my bag.
going to continue to challenge players and we
luckiest golfer in the world because of what
want the player to know they have a shop to
we get to do here. Helping players while
go and talk things out.
still competing against some of the best players around, it doesn’t get much better.
ET: For the average player what
ET: What do you see ahead for Spargo in 2021 and do you have plans for expansion?
We love the game, and we love helping
separates Spargo from other club fitters?
JP: Oh boy, asking me for trade secrets,
players love it more.
ha-ha. We have some awesome stuff in
I feel is our leg up. When the shop locks up
ET: You have many of the major brands
JP: Golf is our life. Personally, that is what
for the day, I’m golfing, whether it’s with my wife, Steve, my golf homies, or just myself. All the things I say in the studio and preach,
the pipeline, some we have to keep in the for fitting customers. Do you see that list
changing as the new models for 2021 are announced?
Top-Secret folder for now. We are exploring Spargo Membership which would include fittings, club checks, swag. We have some ideas of a par-3 skins game. But on the
I live. Constantly trying to improve as a
JP: Since apprenticing under Tom I learned
business side, we are just loving each
player, but more important as a club builder
on Mizuno, Titleist, Ping and Wishon, we had
day we get to build and fit golf clubs.
and fitter. I have so much respect for other
Miura for a bit, but they changed to be direct
Continuing to grow our knowledge and get
fitters and builders, it’s a community. In that
to consumer. Once I took the shop over my
better. We will be attending Mitchell school
community is a whole mess of golfers that
goal for the Lab was to grow so people had
so that we can both continue our paths to
are looking for answers. Let’s all be the ones
more options. In came TaylorMade and Cobra,
master club builders. But to sum it up, we
who have the answers. Those I mentored
great brands with great reps. Also helped they
just have more fitting, more building and
under and learned from is what separates us
have some of the most popular players in the
a heck of a lot more fun on the golf course
and we learned from the master.
game. I don’t see it getting bigger anytime soon,
ahead of us.
I think it’s the passion, we are obsessed
I really enjoy the brands I get to work with.
over this game. Obsessed over building you
My tournament set up will show it, play a little
clubs that puts a childlike smile on your
of something from everyone. I always wanted
For more information visit www.spargogolf.com
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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COURSES & CLUBS THE BUCKET LIST
A view of the 382 yard, 5th hole green at Oakmont Country Club (Fred Vuich/USGA)
THE
BUCKET LIST:
Check off these five USGA Championship worthy courses from your Bucket List in 2021. These courses are all located in the Northeast and are within driving distance for all our readers. Get your drive on! BY GREG SAMPSON
The Track
Oakmont Country Club LOCATION: Oakmont, PA Host: 2021 USGA Men’s Amateur, Aug. 9-15
An aerial view of the par-4 second hole at Oakmont Country Club (Fred Vuich/USGA)
Bucket List Details Designed by Henry Fownes in 1903 and renovated by Tom Fazio in 2015, Oakmont plays to a par 70 measuring 7,254 yards from the championship tees. Oakmont is known as one of the most difficult courses in North America with 210 deep bunkers, narrow fairways and hard, extremely fast greens that slope away from the player. This masterpiece has hosted more combined USGA & PGA Championships than any other venue in the country.
How to Play If your handicap index is 2.4 or below than your best bet is to enter your state 36 hole qualifier and try to advance to the championship proper. Otherwise, you better know some friends in high places to play as a guest or become a member. NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
49
COURSES & CLUBS THE BUCKET LIST
An aerial view of the 416-yard, par-4 fifth hole. (Evan Schiller/USGA)
An aerial view of Miacomet Golf Course, the island’s only 18-hole public facility (Fisher Real Estate)
The Track
The Track
LOCATION: Siasconset, MA Host: 2021 USGA Mid-Amateur, Sept. 25-30
LOCATION: Nantucket, MA Host: 2021 USGA Mid-Amateur, Sept. 25-30 (stroke play only)
Bucket List Details Designed by Emerson Armstrong in 1923 (bunker revisions by Eugene “Skip” Wogan in 1928; revisions by A.W. Tillinghast in 1928; renovations in 2017 by Jim Urbina and C.J. Penrose) this renowned private club is known for its links style layout surrounded by open land and wildlife. This championship venue plays to a par 70 measuring 6,652 yards featuring beautiful ocean views. The iconic Sankaty Head Lighthouse looms over the front nine. Sankaty members are a driving force behind the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund and has one of the few remaining Caddy Camps in the world.
Bucket List Details Expanded to 18-holes in 2003 with further renovation to the original holes in 2008 by architect Howard Maurer this links style course offers great character with green sizes ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 square feet. The course is very playable from all tees but is sure to test your skills from the tips measuring 6,739 yards with a par of 70.
Sankaty Head Golf Club
How to Play If your handicap index is 3.4 or below and you have reached your 25th birthday by Sept. 12, 2021 than your best bet is to enter an 18-hole qualifier at one of the designated sites and try to advance to the championship proper. The overall membership is 550 with open membership to qualified sponsored new member applicants. To maintain the family orientation of the membership, properly sponsored legacies are given some priority toward membership. So there are ways to become a member. If that is not in the cards, seek out a way to play as a guest.
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Miacomet Golf Course
How to Play Miacomet is Nantucket’s only 18-hole public golf facility so you can make a tee-time online at miacometgolf.com. Rates vary through-out the season. You could also join the New England Series run by the NEPGA and play in the Nantucket Invitational, May 25-26. There is currently a wait list for membership. The final option is to enter an 18-hole qualifier for the 2021 USGA Mid-Amateur.
A look at the par-4 16th green and clubhouse, which will measure 322 yards during the championship. (Russell Kirk/USGA)
The Track
Brooklawn Country Club LOCATION: Fairfield, CT Host: 2021 USGA Senior Women’s Open
Bucket List Details Brooklawns championship course traces to a nine-hole layout, designed by members shortly after the clubs founding in 1895. In 1930 the course was completely re-designed by architect A.W. Tillinghast and continues to undergo improvements under the direction of architect Ron Forse. 2021 marks the fifth USGA Championship held at the club which will play around 5,999 yards with a par 72 for the 2021 US Women’s Open. The course plays to a par of 71 measuring 6,711 yards from the tips. Accuracy is more important than distance at Brooklawn and the best lag putter always has the upper hand as the greens featuring outstanding undulation. How to Play Any female professional or amateur golfer who turns 50 years of age on or before July 29, 2021, and have a handicap index not exceeding 7.4 can enter the 2021 US Women’s Open to qualify for a chance to play this iconic track. Brooklawn is a private so options to play include joining the club, playing in a golf outing or be invited to member-guest at the club.
The West Course is hilly and heavily wooded, rolling through thick stands of pine, oak, and maple and features many blind spots, which adds to its complexity and difficulty. (Evan Schiller/USGA)
The Track
Westchester Country Club LOCATION: Rye, NY Host: 2021 USGA Women’s Amateur
Bucket List Details The West Course has a rich history hosting 42 PGA Tour events, the 2011 Senior Players Championship, the 2015 KPMG LPGA Championship and in 2021 its second USGA Women’s Amateur. Hole numbers 2, 3, 6 and 17 rated among the toughest year after year during its long tenure with the PGA Tour as it challenges every skillset in your game. The par 72 layout was originally designed by Walter J. Travis and has since been revised by several notable architects including Rees Jones, Ken Dye and most recently by Tom Fazio. The South Course, renovated by Ken Doyle in 2000, has a line up of five par 3’s, some of the best in the Metropolitan area and offers an exceptional experience for golfers of all skill levels.
How to Play Female amateur golfers with a handicap index of 5.4 or lower can enter a qualifier at sites around the country for a chance to qualify for the championship proper and play both magnificent courses at Westchester Country Club. The club features 70 luxury suites and guest rooms available to members or guests sponsored by a member so there is a stay and play opportunity if you know a member.
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
51
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COURSES & CLUBS NEW ENGLAND PGA
A Win-Win-Win!
Cross off a bucket-list course, play with your pro, and support a great cause when you compete in a Charity Pro-Am New England PGA
prestigious courses, but you’d be wrong. The last three New England
VERY GOLFER HAS A LIST OF GOLF COURSES they’d do almost anything to play, but probably never will. Many of those courses exist right here in New England. What most golfers don’t realize is that they can play many of these courses.
PGA Scholarship Pro-Ams have been contested at these exact courses,
E
One of the best ways to cross bucketlist courses off your own list is by playing in charity tournaments. Many of these events are hosted at top-notch golf courses that non-members generally don’t have access to. How many people
allowing dozens of amateurs the rare opportunity to play some of their bucket-list courses every year. Some charity events use the Pro-Am format, where a golf professional will round out a foursome with amateurs from their club, while other outings allow teams of
“You’ll learn not only from some of your pro’s feedback throughout the round, but from the way he or she approaches the game.”
in your Sunday foursome have played a
amateurs, professionals, or any combination thereof, to participate. Competing in a Pro-Am with the PGA Professional from your facility can only add to your already memorable golf experience. If you haven’t played a round of golf with your pro, whether
PGA TOUR destination in TPC Boston, navigated the same grounds
it’s at your home facility or a Top-100 Course in America, that’s
that hosted the first Ryder Cup at Worcester Country Club, or
another experience that should be on your list. You’ll learn not only
experienced heaven on earth at Eastward Ho!? Most have not, but the
from some of your pro’s feedback throughout the round, but from the
ones who have are probably reminding you about it every week.
way he or she approaches the game. The experience will also pay
You might think it’s impossible to get a tee time at any of these
dividends back at the club. The more your pro knows about your
By Nick Heidelberger, New England PGA 54
F E B RUA RY / M A RC H 202 1 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
game, the more help they can provide down the
coronavirus pandemic in 2020, but is planning
road, whether it’s club or ball fitting, aspects of
another memorable event for late in 2021. The
your game to focus on during your next lesson,
tournament helps fund PGA REACH New
or a couple simple drills they might give you to
England, assuring the Foundation can continue
work on at home. Not to mention, your pro is
its programming to support junior golfers,
likely to have a competitive side, and will be
military Veterans, and diverse populations
eager to make sure you’re playing your best golf
through the game of golf. One area impacted by
heading into the event. The only thing better
the annual event is the PGA REACH New
than playing a once-in-a-lifetime course is
England Scholarship program, which awards
posting your best-ever round on one!
about $50,000 annually in scholarships to junior
Of course, these tournaments are about more than just a unique golf experience. There’s a greater goal that the charitable organization is
golfers from New England, allowing them to pursue higher education. Next time you stop by the pro shop at your
working towards that’s behind bringing so many
facility, give your bucket list of courses to your PGA
people together. The NEPGA Scholarship outing
Professional. There’s a good chance it could result in
took a year off during the midst of the
an invitation to cross one of them off.
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
55
The Manchester Club of Vermont “Golf in Southern Vermont Re-imagined”
G
REENER FAIRWAYS ARE AHEAD
at The Manchester Club of Vermont. The Club will grab you from the moment you step foot onto the property including new, dramatic site lines to the golf course and surrounding mountains created by golf course Superintendent Sean Monahan’s efforts to remove invasive growth. Century old features like stone walls and flower species were discovered and brought into view allowing for unique historical beauty and playability of this beautiful, yet challenging Geffrey Cornish designed golf course. The Club intends to continue to enhance the physical features to the grounds and clubhouse which is the initial phase of a multi-year program. This beatification program dovetails into real golf
Together the new team sees this compelling story as a strong
programming and merchandising upgrades from our professional
opportunity to enhance member services as well, by revitalizing
staff led by Peter Weatherby, PGA. The hospitality is driven, by a
ladies and junior leagues, tennis programs and expanding
locally sourced dining and bar scene, all under the watchful eye of
opportunities for more organized play. These changes represent a
the Club’s General Manager/COO Michelle Dougherty, CCM.
new start for Manchester. There will be extended dining hours with
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THE BUCKET LIST M A N C H E S T E R CO U N T RY C LU B
improved service and offerings; regular golf clinics throughout the season; yoga and other wellness classes; new activities and outings designed to build social connections. Levels of membership range from Full Golf and Tennis Memberships, Junior Memberships and a 60-day non-resident privilege. What better time than now to make The Manchester Club of Vermont your home away from home?
For more information visit us at www.mccvt.com
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
57
YOUR PARADISE AWAITS IN THE GATED CARIBBEAN GOLF COMMUNITY OF COCOTAL IN PUNTA CANA
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GOLF COURSE LIVING
Innisbrook Copperhead Course
BUCKET LIST COURSES
Live on a Bucket List Golf Course
All of us have bucket list destinations we aspire to play in our lifetime. What if we actually lived in one of these cherished places. One thing for sure, we would have an endless list of requests to come stay and play. Here are a few of these places and what it would take!
*Augusta National Golf Club Augusta Georgia (Just a Dream) Number one on everyone’s bucket list is a place we can neither live nor in most cases, ever play. Besides the 10 cabins at Augusta National, the most famous being the Butler and Eisenhour cabins, there are no privately owned residences to be bought for any price. Augusta National continues to acquire immense amounts of commercial and residential property surrounding the course with their billion-dollar war chest, the last was a shopping center on Washington Street.
NORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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GOLF COURSE LIVING BUCKET LIST COURSES
St Andrews Scotland The Old Course The Old Course is at the heart of the Links Trust and part of a family of six public courses, three of which are well over 100 years old. Around 200,000 rounds of golf a year are played on the Links. The Old Course Hotel overlooking the 18th green has a 2-bedroom flat in Kohler’s Hamilton Grand Golf Place for just $2.2 Million.
Pebble Beach Cypress Point California Home of the “Annual Clambake” (The AT&T Pro Am) is by far very high on all our bucket lists, and a place every one of us would love to play. This area is the only part of Pebble Beach with oceanfront real estate, which stretches from Cypress Point all the way to Pebble Beach. Best to bring $10 Million to $30 Million. Pinehurst North Carolina – Carolina Village Pinehurst dates back to 1895. A total of forty-two golf courses can be found in an abundance of outstanding golf real estate.
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club Southampton New York
Seminole Golf Club in North Palm Beach Florida
And if you don’t live on a fairway in
Shinnecock Hills’ history of “firsts” is enough
If you have the “panache” for the Palm
Pinehurst, you are a short golf cart drive from
as the oldest organized golf club in the U.S.
Beach life then this could be your home.
one. Condos from $300,000 to golf course
(1891), the oldest clubhouse (1892), and
homes over 3 Million.
membership that has always been open to
bring a little bit of his native Scotland to
women. Having hosted five U.S. Opens
every course he designed. Seminole Golf
already places Shinnecock Hills in rare
Club’s relatively treeless and sweeping terrain
company. To live here be prepared to pay
gets buffeted by persistent Atlantic breezes.
Southampton prices! 3 Million to 25 Million.
3.5 Million to 30 Million.
Pinehurst and the surrounding areas, offering
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Donald Ross seemed to have the ability to
TPC Sawgrass Ponte Vedra Florida
PGA National Palm Beach Gardens Florida
The Ocean Course Kiawah Island
TPC Sawgrass is one of the finest and
More than a resort, PGA National offers an
spectacular, in total there are 6 golf courses at
best-known country clubs in the world. TPC
enviable lifestyle in a setting that embraces
Kiawah. The famous Ocean Course was
Sawgrass Club first opened in 1980 and is
the best Florida has to offer with a world-
voted Golf Digest #4 Public Golf Course in
home to the PGA Tour Headquarters, as well
class destination spa, a private Sports &
the U.S, home to the 2012 PGA
as two championship Golf courses. The TPC
Racquet Club, five championship golf courses
Championship, 2007 Senior PGA, 2003
Stadium Course, which is currently rated #1
and considered one of the most luxurious
World Golf Championships, and 1991 Ryder
in the State of Florida, first opened in 1980
resort lifestyle communities. Stay, Play, Live
Cup. Condos from $500,000 - Homes from
and is home to the The Players
— the PGA Lifestyle. Condos From $250,000
1million to 8 Million.
Championship. $230,000 up to more than
Homes from $400,000 to $1.5 Million.
Kiawah Island golf courses are simply
$2 million.
Innisbrook Palm Harbor Florida
Kapalua Resort Maui Hawaii
Every March the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship is hosted by Innisbrook on its
In general, Hawaii is a bucket-list destination
famed Copperhead course. The Copperhead is one of the resort’s four outstanding
for golfers, but if I had to narrow it down to
courses–all designed by noted architect Lawrence Packard. One of only six resorts to
one specific location, it would be Kapalua
receive Golf Digest’s “2018 Best Golf Resorts in Florida” designation and Golf
Resort. The Coore /Crenshaw-designed
Magazine’s “Top 100 You Can Play.” Condos from $150,000 - $350,000.
Plantation Course offers ocean views from elevated tees like no other. The other course, at Kapalua, the Bay Course, doesn’t exactly lack in the scenery department either. Condos from 1 Million, Homes From 5 Million NORTHE AS T.GOLF | FE B RUARY / M ARC H 2021
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Generous fairways. and challenging approach shots. our course likes to play with you.
don’t let our serene golf course with it’s lovely terrain, lush Britishstyle fescue, majestic trees, and wonderful views fool you. Brad Faxon and Brad Booth designed our Audubon International Silver Sanctuary Certified course to be as beautiful as it is challenging with approach shots to well bunkered, tucked firm, fast bent greens. While golfers of all levels enjoy playing here, it challenges even the best players. Which is why we’ve been host to a number of amateur and professional golf tournaments. The course is secretly nestled on 625 acres of tranquility close to the shores of Buzzards Bay. Consider joining The Bay Club. Our course would like to play with you.
THE
Bay Club life at your pace
63 County Road, Mattapoisett MA 02739 dandrews@bayclubmatt.com / bayclubmatt.com 508.207.9232
THE CLOSING 9
You Can Call Me Square
led to a more stable platform with custom cleats and nubs under
A
few times in life something extraordinary comes along that
specific pressure points created during your golf swing with an
actually changes the way we do things. Often times it’s
integrated heel stabilizer system that assist with rotational torque.
something so simple, it is hard to believe. SQAIRZ Golf Shoes are
What sounds complex is actually quite simple, better foundation,
changing how we play the game from the ground up! In golf
better balance, means a better golf swing and more distance too!
there is only one connection with the surface we are playing on
Terry Hashimoto from Swing Balance / Body Trak has done
and that is our feet and the shoes we are wearing. To put it in
extensive research on the SQAIRZ Golf Shoe. Terry said, “The
simple terms, everything that happens in our game, every
square toe design and well-engineered ergonomics of these golf
movement, every swing and every putt is built on one simple
shoes allows for a player to be more efficient in their golf swing.
premise – balance. Foundation is the key to balance at every level
It’s no surprise that every person we tested has seen increased
and without it there is no basis to achieve a repeatable outcome.
distance created by better acceleration and a more balance rotation through Impact.”
SQAIRZ Golf shoes are engineered, designed and built by golfers for golfers.
the PGA Show and since that time I can tell you they are the
It all started with the patented SQAIRZ toe that allows the golfer to
only golf shoes I have worn since.
setup properly on every shot with more room in the forefoot area
Buy More distance at www.sqairz.com
that provides full range of motion for your feet. That development @northeastgolfmagazine
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F EB RUA RY / M A RC H 202 1 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
A few years ago, I slipped on a pair of SQAIRZ Golf Shoes at
Gone Sqairz! With Sqairz! @northeast.golf
info@newengland.media
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