APRIL/MAY 2020 | VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 2
RENAISSANCE Just One Stop in the Southworth Network
FORE SCORE Irons, Wedges, Putters, & More
SPRING into SUMMER
Fashion Trends & Eyewear
+ How to Play
New England’s Finest & Most Exclusive Courses
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EASY TO GET TO. HARD TO LEAVE. Every once in a while we need to escape the real world and remember what life is all about. Only an hour’s drive from Portland, our resort features 75 luxuriously-appointed rooms and suites complete with plenty of activities and pampering amenities to make your stay truly unforge able. Play golf on our championship course. Visit our new fitness pavilion, pool, and tennis courts. Explore the coastline on our private yachts or kayaks. Or just kick back, relax and enjoy majestic sunsets from our heated deck.
Reservations: 800-762-8433 BoothbayHarborOceansideResort.com STAY & PLAY GOLF SPECIALS NIGHT ROUNDS | | MAY/OCT NIGHT ROUNDS | * | JUNE/SEPT NIGHT ROUNDS | * | JULY/AUG *AVAILABLE SUN-WED
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New Offering: GOLFSIDE VILLAS Minutes away from downtown Boothbay Harbor, the Golfside Villas have spectacular views overlooking the 1st hole of Boothbay Harbor Country Club. Indulge in all of the exclusive membership benefits at Boothbay Harbor Country Club, which is fully private in 2020.
• Includes FREE golf at BHCC • Near fitness center/pool • Private balconies
• Golf course views • Air conditioning/Luxury linens • King-sized beds/en-suite baths
The six-bedroom villas can also be rented as 2, 4 and 5-bedroom. Separate one-bedroom suites are also available.
RATES (peak is 6/27-9/12): One-Bedroom (private patio and kitchene e) Off Peak: $1,500/wk, Peak: $2,500/wk Four-Bedroom (full kitchen, decks, game room, hot tub) Off Peak: $6,000/wk, Peak: $10,000/wk Six-Bedroom (full kitchen, decks, game room, hot tub) Off Peak: $9,000/wk, Peak: $15,000/wk For those who enjoy a water view, we offer harborside co ages which can be viewed on our website. BoothbaySummerCo ages.com Reservations: 207-633-4455 x602
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DECEMBER 2019 / JANUARY 2020 | NORTHE AST.GOLF
INSIDE APRIL • MAY 2020 VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 2
Southworth Club Members enjoy Machrihanish Dunes. The course has been named “Scotland’s Best Experience” for the warmth of its welcome.
COVER STORY
10
Southworth Club Members: Enjoy the Best of All Worlds: Why belong to just one private club when you can enjoy full membership privileges at five of them?
BUCKET LIST
GreatHorse
Amenity Upgrades to an Already Upscale Experience
continued
14
COURSES AND CLUBS
Northeast Golf
The Home of the Finest Golf in America.
24 PRO SHOP
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48 NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
5
PRO SHOP Equipment & Gear
38 IRONS
42 WEDGES
28
MOLORI UNPLUGGED
32
AROUND THE GAME
47
EQUIPMENT & GEAR
30
Captain Nicholas Gernt
ROSS’S RULES
The Problem of Distance
44 PUTTERS
46 BAGS & CARTS
53 SPRING
The New Handicap System
36
AROUND THE GAME
NEPGA Exclusive Golf Courses
44
AROUND THE GAME
Women’s Golf Day
INTO SUMMER
Club Booster V2: Your Push Cart Reinvented!
60
A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS
Coastal Maine Golf Resorts
64
THE CLOSING NINE
Why Golf is Essential
When you come to the Pinehurst, Southern Pines Aberdeen Area, you come to play. But we’re not just referring to the worldclass golf we’re known for. Here, shopowners along historic Main Street offer local treasures, and chefs craft a range of culinary delights. From hiking and shopping to sipping craft brews, discover a small town that’s big on memory making. We invite you to come and explore a vacation with a Southern Accent.
homeofgolf.com
FROM THE EDITOR FA I R P L AY
“Golf is a game played with built-in social distancing and it’s played outdoors away from others.”
The Only Game in Town
Golf is pretty much the safest and only Game Right Now
T
HE CORONAVIRUS HAS TABLED ALMOST ALL MAJOR SPORTING EVENTS, consumer shows, concerts and pretty much all gatherings of large groups of people throughout our country. It has driven us inside our homes sheltered from exposure and risk that we all incur in day to day normal life. For the first time in decades, you can scroll through every TV network from ESPN to FOX to CBS to NBC, ABC and all others and in the middle of one of the busiest months in professional and college sports in America, there is nothing on. While the Players Championship, The Masters and almost all major golf events with large crowds in attendance have been canceled or postponed, most golf facilities, public and private, are open for business with some simple new procedures for everyone to follow. Golf is a game played with built-in social distancing and it’s played outdoors away from others, so getting out for more golf than ever will provide all of us with an escape and some needed exercise. What better time to walk with a pushcart. This is our bag and cart issue, so you will find some great products to review and make the game a little easier during this difficult time. By adding a few simple rules to your game, you can enjoy all the golf you want to play without exposing yourself to infection. First and always, use common sense and adhere to some simple health principles. Walk if you can, but if you ride, wipe all cart surfaces that you would touch
with a disinfectant and ride alone. (Most courses have already adjusted policy for this). Keep your glove or gloves on throughout the round and avoid facial contact with your gloves. The pin on every green is handled by almost every player, so use your towel to remove and replace or even better, play with the pin in. Bring your own hydration and snacks. Many courses will not have a service cart for refreshments. If possible do not use locker rooms, and avoid restaurants and gathering places unless they are outdoors with social distancing. And most importantly, know that if you are young, the chance that you could be carrying the virus with no symptoms is likely, but for older players, their risk is much greater so be vigilant. Generally, the key is to be more than six feet away from others; stay out of gimme distance. As much as we know for now, we know that if you’re more than six feet from someone, they’re not likely to spread the virus to you. So even within your foursome, you just stay a little bit farther away than you might ordinarily. Play on and Play Smart for Your Life and Others.
Timothy R. Branco Editor, Northeast Golf
Submit Your News & More at:
www.Northeast.Golf/Submit
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A P R IL / M AY 2 02 0 | NO RTHE AST.G OLF
Editor / Publisher Timothy R. Branco Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Sampson greg@nepubinc.com Sales Paul Mignosa paul@nepubinc.com
VOTE N OW
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Client Relations Mary Branco For Editorial & Advertising Requests: 800-736-9020 info@newengland.media Subscriptions P.O. Box 357 Swansea, MA 02777 A Division of New England Publishing Group Inc.
© 2020 New England Publishing Group Inc. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The articles appearing within this publication re ect the opinion of their respective authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Subscriptions are $29.99 annually for 6 issues.
ST
BE
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
ds
2020
Contributing Editor David DeSmith
in
GOLF aw
ar
Courses & Clubs • Ranges & Instructors Equipment & Apparel • Resorts & More
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COVER STORY SOUTHWORTH
SOUTHWORTH CLUB MEMBERS
Enjoy
BEST WORLDS The
of ALL
By Allen Askov
Machrihanish Dunes has been named “Scotland’s Best Experience” for the warmth of its welcome, its posh accommodations, and its stellar David McLay Kidd links golf course. Haggis nachos, anyone?
W
WHY BELONG TO JUST ONE PRIVATE CLUB when you can enjoy full membership privileges at five of them? That’s the idea behind the unique reciprocity program offered by Southworth Development, owner and manager of two luxe private clubs in Massachusetts and three more in other highly desirable destinations. Thanks to this program, members at Renaissance in Haverhill and Willowbend on Cape Cod enjoy full privileges when they visit any other Southworth club—and they’re not shy about using them.
Renaissance may just be Greater Boston’s best-kept secret. Southworth created a grand clubhouse here, and the Brian Silva Signature Golf Course is one of the area’s toughest—and most enjoyable. Wherever you live, it’s well worth the drive.
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“Our members get around,” said David Southworth, Founder and CEO of Southworth. “And they love this program. I visit all of our clubs frequently and I’m never surprised to see a group from Renaissance or Willowbend playing golf at Creighton Farms or hanging out on the beach at The Abaco Club. It’s great to see the different clubs’ members getting to know each other and having a good time together. They’re like one big happy family.” And why wouldn’t they be? Willowbend has been one of the Bay State’s premier clubs for decades, with 27 holes of golf, extensive fitness and wellness facilities, superb dining—and tennis that includes the region’s only tennis stadium. While Renaissance has earned its place among the North Shore’s best private clubs with its spectacular golf course and long list of other amenities and familyfriendly activities. But when you add to those the opportunity to stroll into any of Southworth’s other clubs
Creighton Farms makes the most of its rolling horse-country location. And its stunning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course has played host to national championships. Plus, the season starts early here—a great benefit for visitors from the north.
The Abaco Club offers 2.5 miles of private beach, luxury homes, and a Scottish-style tropical links golf course that’s home to the Korn Ferry Tour’s Great Abaco Classic. Darren Clarke has a home here, which he says he hates to leave.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
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COVER STORY SOUTHWORTH
and enjoy the same privileges as their local members, the benefits are exponential. Even the people who live in Southworth’s Meredith Bay community on Lake Winniepesaukee are entitled to get in on the act. Come one, come all. Outside of New England, Southworth’s other private clubs include The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, a spectacular private club community located in The Bahamas. It offers everything you’d expect from a 5-star property in the tropics, minus the crowds. Annually home to the Southworth Cup in which members from all Southworth clubs compete for bragging rights, The Abaco Club offers barefoot luxury at its best. In Northern Virginia, just a few miles west of Washington, D.C., Southworth’s
Talk about a water hazard! The Abaco Club’s pristine, white-sand beach comes into play on several holes. After golf, it’s the perfect setting for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just lounging in the sun.
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Creighton Farms members--and visitors from other Southworth clubs--love to spend time at the resort-style pool complex.
Southworth club members often take trips together to Southworth’s Machrihanish Dunes in Scotland, where holes like the par-3 5th challenge the best of players.
Club at Creighton Farms makes the most of its scenic horse country setting. The club plays host each year to the Creighton Farms Invitational Hosted by Jack Nicklaus—on the course that Jack designed. But that’s just one of the superb amenities that Southworth club members enjoy during visits, which include luxurious club rooms for overnight stays. Then there’s The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Scotland, a full-fledged golf resort with two grand, historic hotels and one of the top oceanfront links courses in the world. Southworth members enjoy not just golf privileges there but discounts on just about everything else—as they do when they visit any Southworth property. Five clubs for the price of one. Sometimes, Willowbend on Cape Cod is Southworth’s first property and home to an exclusive group of movers and shakers from the business, entertainment and professional worlds. The list of club amenities here is as long as a par five—as is its activities calendar.
more really is better. Join the Network at SouthworthDevelopment.com
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
13
COURSES & CLUBS NORTHEAST
The Home of the Finest Golf in America
NORTHEAST
Golf
Bethpage State Park | Farmingdale, NY
The Sagamore Course | Lake George, NY
One of the biggest misconceptions about golf in the Northeast is that golf courses are pretty much all the same and the golfing season is relatively short. If you are a native golfer living in or from the Northeast, you know that nothing could be further from the truth. By T.R. Branco
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Newport Country Club | Rhode Island
NEW ENGLAND GOLF COURSES complement the contours of some truly stunning landscapes from the dramatic mountain courses, to seaside links, woodland, and pasture courses throughout the region. From Cape Cod, Massachusetts through Southern Rhode Island, Coastal Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, golf is played in all 4 seasons year-round. The Northeast has been blessed with a diverse blend of the old and the new when it comes to course designs by some of the top golf course architects over the last 100+ years.
Newport National | Rhode Island
THE GAME OF GOLF came to our country in the late 1800’s from Ireland and Scotland as course designers and players made their way to the United States for a new life of opportunity. As the first courses were built the spirit of competition soon followed and in December of 1894, delegates from golf clubs in Yonkers and Southampton (New York), Brookline (Massachusetts), Newport (Rhode Island), and Chicago met to form the U. S. Amateur Golf Association with Theodore Havemeyer (of the The Country Club | Brookline, MA
TODAY GOLF THRIVES IN THE NORTHEAST and is home to over 20% of the courses in America and over 25% of the nation’s core golfers. The
Newport club) as its first president. Within a year, the association had organized the first National Open and Amateur Championships - the rest is history in this great game.
Northeast also represents the largest golf travel demographic in the world today with more golfers from this region taking more golf vacations and spending more on these vacations than any other area in the World. Golf in the Northeast is a family game and At the root of it all, are organizations that offer learning and playing opportunities for all. The NEPGA, USGA, AJGA, the U.S. Challenge Cup and U.S. Kids Golf all offer a host of programs to grow and maintain the game in Junior Golf. Women’s golf in the Northeast has seen significant growth with more opportunities for girls and women to learn the game and play and compete at numerous events and ongoing club leagues. In 2019, the National Golf Foundation had noted that over 6 million women are now playing golf and are a vital part of the 84 billion U.S. Golf economy.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
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COURSES & CLUBS NORTHEAST
Eastwood Ho! Club | Chatham, MA
IF YOU HAVE NOT PLAYED CAPE COD GOLF, then add it to your bucket list by all means. On the small landmass called Cape Cod, there are 27 public golf courses and 15 private and resort courses. It’s hard to drive down a major roadway on the Cape without seeing a golf course every 15 minutes. Cape Cod truly is “The Golf Coast!” It is no secret that this sandy peninsula is the top golf destination in the Northeast. The mild climate and warm seasonal waters from the gulf stream keep Cape Cod golf open 12 months out of the year. Some of the most widely acclaimed golf course architects have crafted masterpieces here dating back to the 1890s.
FROM ATLANTIC CITY TO THE JERSEY SHORES AND OUT ONTO LONG ISLAND some of the most scenic golf courses in the world line the coastline. On the sound side of Long Island and north through Connecticut, you will find much of the same. In 2020, the U.S. Open comes home once again to the Historic Wingfoot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, NY.
Wingfoot Golf Club | Mamaroneck, NY
IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND ALONG THE BEAUTIFUL COASTLINE OF RHODE ISLAND SOUND AND NARRAGANSETT BAY, there are spectacular bayside and
oceanside golf courses that capture the true essence of links-style golf in America. Newport, RI is home to the 2020 U.S. Senior Open at the home of our first U.S. Open, Newport Country Club. Who can forget the 1995, U.S. Amateur at Newport when a very young 19-year old, Tiger Woods, thrilled fans with his victory just months before he began his professional career. Just minutes from Newport are at least 8 spectacular courses open for public play. Tiger Woods U.S. Amateur Newport CC 1995
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IN NORTHEAST MASSACHUSETTS, the history of the game began at courses like The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts and Worcester Country Club in Worcester, Massachusetts, two of our country’s first golf clubs. Throughout the region are dozens of public and private golf courses designed by Donald Ross, Tillinghast, CB McDonald, Seth Raynor, Arthur Hills, Geoffrey Cornish, Brian Silver and many other top designers in the game. From parkland courses of eastern Massachusetts to the central and west hillside facilities, the region is a mecca for truly amazing historic and modern-day designed golf facilities. The Ranch Golf Club | Southwick, MA
Crystal Springs Resort | Hamburg, NJ
NORTHERN NEW JERSEY AND UPSTATE NEW YORK are as diverse as any region with courses, clubs and golf resorts. Crystal Springs resort in Hamburg, NJ has it all with a great lodge and 6 top golf courses to play; it is a group outing favorite in the northeast with a long list of accolades. The same is true across upstate New York from east to west. In the east, Lake George has one of the most iconic facilities in the country, the Sagamore Resort on Lake George at Bolton Landing. It is truly a great lakeside golf resort with a spectacular 1928 Donald Ross designed golf course. Golf Week has ranked the Sagamore in the “Top 100 Resort Courses in North America.” Throughout Eastern Upstate NY there are outstanding courses in Saratoga - the Saratoga Lake Course, Saratoga National and Saratoga Springs Spa Course. NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
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XXXXXXXXXXX COURSES & CLUBS X X XN O XR XT XH E A S T
Omni Mt Washington Resort | Bretton Woods, NH
IN NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND IN MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE AND VERMONT, you will find truly spectacular summer and early fall golf. There are few places in American where you find over 250 golf courses in such a relatively small region. From the southern regions and coastal regions of Maine and New Hampshire there are oceanside, lakeside and countryside courses throughout with a wide range of layouts and designs and once again, historic New England masterpieces by the best in the game. As we move further north to the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont you will find endless choices in 4-season resorts with some of the finest resort golf in the country.
GOLF IS ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE in
Mountain View Golf Course | Whitefield, NH
the Northeast with reasonable rates for public play and great deals for golf travel throughout the region. Today more than any other time in the history of the game, more people are playing golf and enjoying the game. Private clubs throughout
NORTHEAST GOLF offers unlimited choices for golf in
the Northeast are embracing change and opening up to more diverse
almost every season of the year, and course designs ranging
options for membership programs. There are more types of
from seaside links, parkland, and countryside to mountainside
memberships offered today in private golf than ever and more families
courses with dramatic elevation changes. Besides the ocean
are taking advantage of full family memberships. It is an exciting time in
shoreline, the Northeast is blessed with a vast amount of large
golf, one that has been a long time coming. Today golf is selling itself as
and small lakes, ponds and rivers, it is rare to find a course in
a healthy, family-oriented activity that can be enjoyed outdoors in a
the region where water does not come into play on your
beautiful setting. Not only are more people playing golf but for the first
round. In addition, diverse glacially formed rock and soil
time, statistics tell us that there are as many people interested in playing
conditions around the entire Northeast presents very different
golf as are playing golf right now.
playing conditions and soil characteristics.
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Cabot Cliffs | Nova Scotia
St. Andrews | New Brunswick, CA
NORTH INTO CANADA, NOVA SCOTIA
offers some of the most picturesque golf anywhere in the world, Cabot Links, Fox Harb’r, Digby Pines, Cape Breton, and Dundee Resort are all top of the list. On Prince Edward Island, Rodd Crowbush, Rodd Brudnell, and the Gables of PEI are great facilities. Throughout New Brunswick there are iconic facilities as well including the Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea on the Bay of Funday. In Montreal and Quebec, Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu and the Fairmont Mont Tremblant are outstanding 5 Star Alliance Resorts. Canadian golf resorts and courses offer unprecedented value for golf travelers and added amenities that make it even better to go north in summer.
Ostego | Cooperstown, NY
JUST WEST IN CENTRAL UPSTATE NEW YORK is the famous Otesaga Golf Resort in Cooperstown, NY by the Baseball Hall of Fame. The amazing lakeside course is one of the most scenic and challenging courses in the East. It was designed by Devereux Emmet in 1909 and is located in the Leatherstocking region of New York. Further west is the massive Turning Stone Casino & Golf Resort with a 17,000 square-feet indoor 2-decker golf range and practice facility. The resort is home to 72 holes of golf and three award winning championship courses designed by Tom Fazio, Rick Smith and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Atunyote, Kaluhyat, Shenendoah are the championship courses with two added short courses, Pleasant Knolls and Sandstone Hollow. The facility with indoor simulators, training facilities and health clubs and spas, is a favorite of professional athletes. There are endless opportunities for great public access golf facilities throughout the entire upstate New York region as well. Peak’n Peak Resort on the Pennsylvania, New York line in Clymer, NY is another full 4-season resort with a magnificent golf course with spectacular views in every direction. Northeast Golf will offer you the ultimate in golf whether you are playing in a region, visiting golf resorts throughout the region or just spending some time on the links with friends and family. There are places to play, clubs to join and unlimited options for endless road trips to new places. The Northeast - it is where the game of golf found its roots in America and brought us to where we are today, the largest golfing country in the world.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
19
An entirely new concept of what a Luxury, Lifestyle Club should be. Impeccable golf. Resort-style indulgences. World class relaxation.
COURSES & CLUBS G R E AT H O R S E
It’s Different at Greathorse
Amenity Upgrades to an Already Upscale Experience Coming to Greathorse.com/Experience (413) 566-8010 • Hampden, MA
GreatHorse GreatHorse is a private club
located in the small town of Hampden, Massachusetts where you and your family will feel completely at home in this opulent mountain retreat. Come relax, enjoy world-class golf, and take advantage of unparalleled clubhouse amenities such as the outdoor pool, private spa, fitness center, golf simulators, tennis and platform tennis courts, and the restaurant and bar. It’s different at GreatHorse, VERY different. From the elevated tee boxes to the lush fairways, their thoroughly reimagined and redesigned world-class course traverses breathtaking terrain. Brian Silva’s par-72 layout incorporates natural wetlands, mountainous views and over 207 bunkers. The championship tees offer golfers over 7,600 yards of pristine golf action. The golf is fantastic, but what truly separates GreatHorse from the pack, and why they were voted #1 Private Club in MA in this year’s BEST IN GOLF awards has to do with what club President and Owner, Guy Antonacci and his family set out to create at GreatHorse. “We love the game of golf but we don’t love the attitude encountered at most clubs, so we decided to build GreatHorse around the idea of like-minded members enjoying a lifestyle club without the stuffiness of traditional clubs. GreatHorse was built as an extension of your home and to be your local mountainside getaway. It’s a place where members can relax with friends, bring the kids for a day out, or even wear jeans to dinner without worrying about formal rules or pretentious attitudes.” Said Antonacci.
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COMING TO GREATHORSE
There will be a new pool bar and pizza oven coming in May 2020, a massive new lodging facility at the end of 2020 and two state-of-theart golf simulators being added to the teaching bays.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
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COURSES & CLUBS G R E AT H O R S E
GreatHorse is a special place where family and friends can come together to enjoy life and create lasting memories. The restaurant at GreatHorse is a worthwhile destination in itself. Executive Chef Denis Griswold and his culinary team combine fresh and flavorful seasonal ingredients to create classically delicious fare
“Amazing place done right, not a single detail left out. Whether you play golf or want the social aspect, this place offers so much for the family, for the kids, and for the golfers, amazing. The
they freeze the courts) but Let’s take it a step further. As a member of GreatHorse, you can take advantage of their custom Mercedes Benz luxury van that will take you anywhere you want to go. How about a day on the Long Island Sound or CT River on The GreatHorse Sport Yacht, powered by Bassett Yacht & Boat Sales. If
with an innovative twist. Menus change
views are awesome, the grounds
that’s not enough, you can hit the skies in
weekly to ensure variety and to incorporate
are awesome, the amenities are
the clubs very own private jet – yes, you
awesome and so far the staff
can charter their 8-passenger Challenger
the freshest, local ingredients picked right from their very own 320 acre farm, offering a true farm-to-table approach. The never ending list of amenities that GreatHorse offers its members is breathtaking and quite astonishing. Sure they have a spa, fitness center, pool, basketball & tennis court, summer camps for kids, and even ice hockey (in winter
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and people we have met have been fantastic. Looking forward to many long years enjoying this place with the family.” —James Murphy Member since Aug. 2017
350 private jet. If you long for a golf club that makes you and your family feel like you’re at home, GreatHorse is the place for you. We advise you to call (413) 566-8010, email akline@greathorse.com or visit www.GreatHorse.com/Experience to schedule your personal tour today!
An entirely new concept of what a Luxury, Lifestyle Club should be. Impeccable golf. Resort-style indulgences. World class relaxation.
It’s Different at Greathorse Greathorse.com/Experience (413) 566-8010 • Hampden, MA
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
23
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EVERYONE THAT VOTES HAS A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO NORTHEAST GOLF ** * Must be 18 years or older for a chance to win and complete ballot completely. Equipment shipped by Ben Hogan Company. ** 500 voters will be randomly selected for a Free One-Year Subscription to Northeast Golf Magazine. A $30 value.
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NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
27
AROUND THE GAME
MOLORI UNPLUGGED
By John Molori
Captain Nicholas Gernt: A True Warrior for Veterans
T
HE HISTORY OF GOLF is littered with
2016, after a combat deployment in
heroes - men and women who rou-
Afghanistan, he was treated for post-
tinely make impossible shots under the
traumatic stress (PTS). Gernt is now an
most dire of circumstances. It is safe
acute nurse practitioner and works in
to say that none of these heroes has
the Veterans’ Administration system
anything on Nicholas Gernt.
surgical setting.
A Captain in the U.S. Army (Reserves), Gernt has been invited to
comparison to Gernt’s military
play for President George W. Bush’s
experiences, it has been a key factor in
Team 43 team in the 2020 Bush
his recovery and growth. He relates, “Golf
Institute Warrior Open in Dallas,
has been a form of therapy for me. It
May 3-4. The event began in 2011 - a
calms me, challenges me, and puts my
tournament for United States military
mind in a better place.
personnel seriously wounded or injured since September 11, 2001. “It’s difficult to put into words the
“Golf is a true test of mental fortitude. It is unfair, unforgiving, and unkind. At the end of the day, it’s really just you
experience of playing in The Warrior
against the course and the course always
Open,” says the 38 year-old Gernt, who
wins, I’m just hoping to get the best of it
lives in Attleboro, MA with wife Megan
every now and again.”
and sons Anderson and Rory. “The
Gernt began golfing at age 11 and
Military family is something that not
really took to the game, eventually
many people truly understand.
joining the U.S. Challenge Cup Junior
“Meeting and becoming true friends
Golf Association. This youthful love of
with some of our nation’s heroes is an
the game gave him his most cherished
honor. President Bush and his Institute
golf memory.
are working to reduce the stigma around post-traumatic stress (PTS) and the invisible wounds of war. The Warrior Open is so much more than a golf tournament.” Gernt enlisted in the Army in 2000. Three years later, he was deployed for the initial invasion in Iraq. After being
“I was tearing up the junior circuit and my father told me he wanted to take me out and show me how a real man plays the game. He was playing maybe a round a year, and I was playing 36 holes a day. It wasn’t even close. I shot around even par and he was in the triple digits.
discharged in 2004, he earned his degree in Nursing from
“He had a ‘fire and fall back’ swing that was comical to
Rhode Island College and served as an ER Nurse at a Level
watch. We laughed so much that day, and it’s something I’ll
1 Trauma facility.
always remember. I hope my boys take up the sport so we can
His desire to serve our nation remained unfettered and, in 2012, Gernt was commissioned as an officer in the Army
share similar experiences.” Far from the bliss of youth is the personal mire of PTS.
Reserve where he continues to serve as a Commander of
Gernt comments on this widespread, but still inscrutable
the 912th Forward Resuscitative Surgical Team.
disorder. “Stress comes to us in all different forms. A
Gernt’s patriotic fervor did not come without a cost. In
28
While the game of golf pales in
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
culmination of many events led me down a path of anxiety
“I went to the range and now I’m playing the sport I love again. The support of my family has brought me to where I am today - which is better than I’ve ever been.” While awareness of PTS and other veterans’ issues has improved, Gernt says we still have miles to go. “I think a lot of servicemen find themselves lost, without purpose, and alone. The military gives you a purpose and rewards hard work. You earn your rank, your awards, and your honors and then, in the civilian world, you are just another person. “There is a respect amongst veterans that is unmatched. You know they went places and never expected to come home. Luckily, I think there is a positive mentality spreading. People seem to care more. A ‘thank you for your service’ goes a long way.” Gernt is involved with the Salute Military Golf Association and firmly believes that golf is real way for military personnel to find a level of balance and joy. “We have adaptive athletes that are missing limbs, and athletes that are paralyzed all out there playing. There is laughing, banter, and lots of smiles. “I’ve met so many Veterans who have completely fallen in love with golf. It truly is astounding to see someone progress into a competitor once they pick up a club. We may not have all served together, but we sure do play golf together.” This theme runs throughout the Warrior Open, an event that is about more than pars and putts. Says Gernt, “The warriors selected to play did amazing things during their time in service. There are Medal and resulted in depression. I didn’t know why I felt this way or
of Honor recipients and Silver and Bronze Stars. Every major
why I couldn’t just ‘snap out of it.’
battle and story is represented.
“I reluctantly saw a therapist who said I had classic PTS, and
“President Bush has charged Team 43 and other veterans
I was having difficulties reintegrating into daily society after
with a mission to be leaders in our community, to help our
deployment. I was not very keen on having a diagnosis and
brothers and sisters-in-arms with their transitions and make
scoffed at the thought.
sure they know it’s OK and courageous to ask for and seek
“During this time, my father passed away suddenly from a
help for the invisible wounds of war.”
brain tumor which had gone undiagnosed. This sudden and tragic loss left me in a very dark place. My wife asked me
John Molori is an author and columnist for numerous publications.
what in life made me really happy. I realized that my happiest
Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia.
times were on the golf course.
Email molorimedia@gmail.com.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
29
AROUND THE GAME
ROSS’S RULES
By Jack Ross
USGA and R&A Tackle the Vexing Problem of Increasing Distance in Golf
I
N THE FINAL ROUND of the 1935 Masters tournament, Gene
suit in order to keep pace with the increasing distances
Sarazen holed his second shot on the par-5 15th hole for
Tour professionals hit the ball. According to the USGA,
a double eagle, and went on to win in a playoff. Sarazen
the average driving distance for elite players increased
used a 4-wood for the 235-yard shot, later immortalized in
from 240 yards in the 1930s to over 300 yards in 2019. In
golf annals as “the shot heard round the world.”
response, courses have been lengthened from an average of
Six decades later, Tiger Woods annihilated both his competitors and the venerable Augusta National course
But continuing to lengthen golf courses comes at a price,
with a record tournament score of 18-under par and a 12-
both in terms of the integrity of the game, economics, and
shot victory in the 1997 Masters. On the first two days, he
significant environmental issues. And it is a never-ending
hit wedge shots into the 15th hole – for his second shots.
challenge, as continuing developments in club and ball
Jack Nicklaus commented: “He’s so long, he reduces the
technology, as well as increased athleticism of players,
course to nothing.”
propels the golf ball to ever greater distances. Where does it
The officials at Augusta National quickly set about “Tigerproofing” Augusta National by lengthening the course. Over the past two decades, many courses were forced to follow
30
5,500 yards in the 1930s to 6,800 yards by 2010.
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
all end? Will 8,000-yard courses become the norm? If the USGA and R&A have anything to say about it, in the coming years we could see major initiatives to confront
the distance conundrum. The ruling bodies of golf recently
also exacerbate environmental challenges facing golf, such
released a comprehensive Distance Insights Project Report
as the use of water, chemicals, and fertilizers.
which starts from the premise that success in golf should
The Distance Insights Project Report is just a first
depend primarily on the player’s judgment, skills, and abilities.
step. The USGA and R&A are examining club and ball
To that end, equipment rules should protect the traditions
technology, as well as other factors that contribute to
of the game and prevent an over-reliance on technological
increased distance such as course design and conditions.
advances rather than practice or skill.
One option under consideration is the use of local rules at
As early as 2002, the USGA and R&A had recognized that
competitions requiring the use of clubs or balls that would
significant increases in hitting distances at the highest level of the
shorten hitting distances. Also under review are the overall
game were undesirable because they reduced the challenge of the
conformance specifications for clubs and balls.
game and forced costly and undesirable (where they were even
But the report also emphasizes that the distance problem
possible) lengthening of courses. Increased distance compromises
primarily involves elite golfers. Most recreational players
the inherent strategic challenges of golf in several ways:
face the opposite problem: playing from tees that do not
It leads to the reduction in the variety, length, and creativity
reflect their distance limitations. The PGA of America tried
of shot types, as well as increased emphasis on distance at the
to address this problem years ago with its “Tee It Forward”
expense of accuracy and other skills.
initiative, encouraging recreational players to use shorter
This undermines the core principle that the core challenge
tees that allow them to play the holes the way they were
of golf involves using a broad range of skills and making risk/
designed. The USGA believes that forward tees on most
reward judgments.
courses are too long relative to the hitting distances of the
An increasing number of courses are becoming less challenging or ultimately obsolete for elite golfers. Par-4
golfers who use them, and intends to address this problem. The USGA has traditionally resisted any “bifurcation”
holes become driveable. Par-5 holes become long par-4 holes.
of the rules of golf. The Distance Insights Project Report
Bunkers, doglegs, and elevation changes become nonfactors.
suggests that this thinking might change with respect to
Moreover, lengthening golf courses requires significant capital investments and higher annual operating costs. Longer courses
equipment rules. Stay tuned. In the meantime, move up to those shorter tees. You’re not Tiger Woods.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
31
AROUND THE GAME THE NEW WORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM
There’s A New Sheriff in Town
I
F YOU HAVE A GOLF HANDICAP and a GHIN number which you use for posting your golf round scores, you received an email in the second week of January notifying you of the New World Handicap System. The New World Handicap System is now effective in the United States and marks a momentous occasion for the game of golf. For this first time, there will be a unified system governed
by the USGA and the R&A which enables golfers of different abilities to play and compete on a fair basis, in any format, on any rated course, anywhere around the world. The WHS, comprised of the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System, will be administered by the USGA and its Allied Golf Associations. For the first time in the United States, every Handicap Index will now be computed by the USGA through a centralized platform to ensure consistency and integrity in every number. A handicap system that is based on your best 8 scores, out of last 20 (instead of the best 10 out of your last 20) that works on a daily live basis (instead of every two weeks) will be a game-changer for almost all players. The system also calculates conditions like weather, other players’ scores on the same course, same day and algorithms that factor in unusually high and low scoring rounds. For those golfers who seem always to have their worse rounds just before a new card comes out for a major tournament and their best rounds in the event, good luck to you now. Your handicap is adjusted daily and unusually low tournament rounds are red-flagged for tournament directors review. Course handicaps will no longer be set by course ratings but instead in relation to par. Golfers playing forward tees will get fewer strokes, and those playing back tees may end with more strokes depending on the distance from one tee to another. To say the new system is more equitable is an understatement. Ironically this system is the same one used by the R&A and USGA for decades in the past with a few small changes. Welcome back to a system that maintains the integrity and honesty the game was founded on.
32
A PR I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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A PR I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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BY Greg Sampson AS T.GOL F | AP R /I LM/ARC M AYH 2020 NORTHENORTHE AS T.GOLF | F E B RUARY 2020
35 61
AROUND THE GAME NEW ENGLAND SERIES
How To Play New England’s
Finest And Most Exclusive Golf Courses By Nick Heidelberger of the New England PGA
STEVE FOLEY doesn’t miss many opportunities to play golf. In the first nine
weeks of 2020 he logged 15 rounds, “and I have not gone south.” Steve usually plays about 200 rounds per
second annual Players Invitational. The Invitational is a season-long competition culminating in a championship round at Essex
will work to your favor. I stress that all the
County Club, Golf Digest’s #73 course in
year and keeps it interesting by mixing in some
events are on private tracks that most of us are
America. Exemptions into the event are given
of the finest and most exclusive courses in New
not going to get on. There isn’t another tour out
based on members’ season-long Player of the
England. Belmont Country Club, Weston Golf
there that has the quality of courses or the
Year points in Gross and Net divisions, and
Club, Shelter Harbor Golf Club, TPC Boston,
amount of courses that are offered.”
through a participation exemption.
Myopia Hunt Club, and Worcester Country Club are among his annual appointments. That lineup naturally turns some heads at his
The New England Series is as competitive or
Individual New England Series memberships
as laid back as each individual golfer makes it.
cost $125 and include unlimited guest privileg-
Men and women ranging from low single-digit
es, personalized stat-tracking, and some
home course, New England Country Club.
to 20-plus handicaps are active on the tour, and
outstanding New England Series merchandise.
When fellow members ask how he gets on all
tournaments include men, women and senior
Corporate memberships are also available.
those exclusive courses each and every year, his
divisions, each with gross and net competitions,
Discounts are offered for Police Officers,
answer is simple: The New England Series. The
and a net stableford competition, providing a
Firefighters, EMS employees and active &
New England PGA’s amateur tour annually
competition level for every player.
retired military personnel.
boasts more than 25 events at the finest and most exclusive courses in New England.
“I’m competitive by nature, but I’m 72 years
The 2020 season begins April 20 at TPC
old and I’m not going to keep up with the 30
Boston, which reminds Steve of his only complaint about the tour.
“I get that question all the time,” Steve said.
year-olds,” Steve said. “I have a 7 handicap and
“I’ll tell them how I get on and I say ‘listen, this
I feel very fortunate that I’m at that point in my
“I just wish they would start two weeks
is open to you too! You have the time, you can
life. I enjoy the fun. If my day is going sideways,
earlier,” he said. “I’m ready to go. Come on,
play one, you can play 20, whatever you want
it’s going sideways. What can I do about it? I
step on it.”
to do. If you’ve got a little vacation time and a
make the most of it.”
To View the Schedule and/or Become a Member Visit: www.NewEnglandSeries.com
little slack time, hey, there’s probably one that
36
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
In 2020, the New England Series will host its
AROUND THE GAME W O M E N ’ S G O L F D AY 2 0 2 0
A Celebration of Golf, Life and Women
WOMEN’S GOLF DAY will return for its fifth year on September 1, 2020 once again with a worldwide event celebrating women in golf. Because on the COVID 19 virus, the event was rescheduled. The original June 2, 2020 date will now mark a virtual celebration day for the organization around the globe. #wgdunites
and girls learning golf skills that last a lifetime and being part of a larger global community. Over the past four years, WGD events have been held at over 900 venues in 52 countries and have delivered a golf experience to over 50,000 women and girls. To help more locations join the community in time for the September 1st date and to join the Virtual WGD Digital Celebration, WGD is offering free basic registration at womensgolfday.com with the code WGDUnites.
Women’s Golf Day is a collaborative
Any venue wishing to register to host
effort by a dedicated team, golf management companies, retailers and organizations all working together to engage, empower and support girls and women through golf. In 2019, WGD partnered with the
an event for Women’s Golf Day 2020 should visit www.womensgolfday.com and go to Register a Location, and you don’t need to be a golf course to take part. Past venues include golf clubs, PGA Superstore,
ANNIKA Foundation, the charitable foundation of women’s
Topgolf, retail stores, driving ranges – essentially anywhere
golf legend Annika Sorenstam, WGD will reach further than
you can swing a club!
ever before in helping to support young women around the world with the power of golf, for years to come. Women’s Golf Day is a one-day, four-hour global experience for women and girls. It is a celebration of women
For anyone interested in taking part at a WGD event, keep an eye on the WGD social media at: @womensgolfday and #WomensGolfDay and check into www.womensgolfday.com for news of new venues signing up around the world every day.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
37
PRO SHOP IRONS
Players Distance BY Greg Sampson
Ben Hogan Icon Irons
$770 | benhogangolf.com Amazing on the eye with even better performance and feel for an amazing price.
Mizuno MP20 Irons
$1225 | mizunousa.com The ultimate scoring iron with a thinner topline and the 2nd generation of their multi material concept.
Cobra Forged Tec Irons
$1100 | cobragolf.com A blend of unreal distance and playability infused with Arccos Technology. Also available in one length.
38
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Wilson D7 Forged Steel Irons
$900 | wilsongolf.com Tour-level distance and feel with Power Hole and Chamber technologies combined with a compact head shape and thinner topline.
Honma TR20 V Iron
$1225 | honmagolf.com Traditional blade shapes with modern topline and sole proportions, and high performance back designs.
PXG 3011P Irons
$425 per iron | pxg.com Drop dead sexy delivering an incredible combination of distance, forgiveness, accuracy, a sweet spot larger than Texas.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
39
PRO SHOP IRONS
Game Improvement Cobra King Speedzone Irons
$800 | cobragolf.com The first ever Carbon Fiber Topline, delivering an ultra low CG for maximum speed and launch infused with Arccos Technology.
Ping G710 Irons
$1300 | ping.com Metal-wood like flexing, faster ball speeds, added distance and higher shots with stopping power with standard Arccos Caddie Smart Grips.
Miura IC-601 Irons
$260 per iron | miuragolf.com The inner cavity provides explosive distance, greater forgiveness and a tighter dispertion. These irons at address speak confidence.
40
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Tommy Armour 845 Irons
$400 | dickssportingoods.com L-Cup face shape combined with Variable Face Thickness (VFT) design creates faster ball speeds for longer distance with an unbeatable price.
Tour Edge Exotics EXS 220 Iron $130 per iron | touredge.com A split set featuring a hollow body in the top of the set and deep undercut design in the bottom. Get ready to score better.
Cleveland Launcher UHX Irons
$1030 | clevelandgolf.com Featuring hollow long irons for explosive distance and cavity back short irons for ultimate control.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
41
PRO SHOP WEDGES
Up & Down Ben Hogan Equalizer Wedges $110 each | benhogangolf.com The perfect blend of science with artistry. Get ready for a legendary short game with the “secret� of an unbalanced wedge.
Bettinardi HLX 3.0 Wedges $130 each | bettinardi.com Soft Carbon Steel provided a much softer feel at impact. Two grind choices for greater versatility, control, and increased forgiveness from approach to greenside lies.
Cleveland CBX Full Face Wedge
$150 each | clevelandgolf.com A highly versatile yet forgiving wedge, designed specifically for extreme open-face shots around the green.
42
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Honma T//World W4 Wedge $150 each | honmagolf.com Hand shaped profile created by master craftsmen in Sakata, Japan progressively designed from loft to loft for scoring and shot-making.
Indi ATK TT Wedge
$160 each | indigolfclubs.com A wider sole design with toe and heel relief. Ideal for softer conditions and players that take big divots.
Titleist Vokey Design SM8 Wedges
$200 each | vokey.com Improved distance control, shot versatility, and spin with tour-inspired grinds. Each wedge includes custom stamping, shaft band and ferrule.
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
43
PRO SHOP PUTTERS
Flat Sticks Axis1 Rose Putter
$450 | axis1golf.com Ceramic bead blasted finish, individually balanced and a stainless steel shaft. Justin Rose trusts this putter that never turns on you.
Bettinardi 2020 BB8 Wide Putter $300 | bettinardi.com A traditional blade appearance, yet looking for added confidence on the greens.A wider flange with a lengthened sightline, compressed shoulders, and flat bumpers.
Evnroll ER10 Outback Mallet Putter
$400 | evnroll.com This ultra high MOI oversized mallet with unpainted dots to keep putts on the high side of target line. “Sweet Face Technology� delivers unmatched distance control and feeling the Gravity Grip makes a believer.
44
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Indi Allison Mallet Putter
$450 | indigolfclubs.com Constructed of Aircraft Grade Aluminium with Tungsten weighting featuring a Colossal Sweet Spot – No matter where on face ball is struck, it travels the same distance.
SeeMore HT Mallet RST Hosel
$250 | www.seemore.com The new RifleScope Technology (RST) Plumber Neck Hosel for the golfer that likes their hands slightly forward features a solid stainless steel mallet offering great alignment, feel and roll.
SeeMore Pure Center Blade
$200 | www.seemore.com A simple, classic, pure center shafted blade with great alignment and setup benefits of RifleScope Technology (RST). Now featuring a milled face.
SIK Pro C-Series
$400 | sikgolf.com A custom CNC milled putter made in the USA featuring SIK’s patented Descending Loft Technology that delivers a consistent launch angle regardless of shaft lean at impact. Change the way you roll.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
45
PRO SHOP BAGS & CARTS
Bag Boy Auto-Open Nitrogen Push Cart
$250 | bagboy.com Lightning-fast one-step open with Nitro-Piston Technology. Features Top-Lok TechnologyÂŽ, a patented bag-to-cart attachment system. Available in 8 colorways.
Bag Boy Chiller Hybrid Stand Bag
$200 | bagboy.com Removable, insulated cooler bag holds four 12-ounce cans. A 14-Way organizer top and their patented TOP-LOKÂŽ Technology makes this a winner. Available in 7 colorways.
Big Max Blade IP Push Cart
$350 | bigmaxgolf.com The ultra-slim design, featuring Flat Fold technology that can be assembled and disassembled in a matter of a few seconds because the wheels automatically flip out. Available in 5 colorways.
Big Max Aqua Wave Stand Bag
$250 | bigmaxgolf.com Waterproof and washable with plenty of room for a full set of clubs. Stylish, compact and ultra-lightweight and jam packed with practical features. Available in 4 colorways.
Sun Mountain Speed GX Push Cart
$250 | sunmountain.com This three-wheeled ergonomically efficient cart weighs in at under 18 pounds. It features an easy two-fold system and is available in 8 colorways.
Sun Mountain H2NO Superlite Stand Bag
$290 | sunmountain.com A waterproof mid-sized bag that weighs under five pounds. Among the five pockets are a hydration sleeve and the X-Strap System makes for an easy two or one strap carry. Available in 4 colorways.
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A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
PRO SHOP ALPHARD GOLF
Club Booster V2 Your PushCart Reinvented! The Club Booster V2 by Alphard Golf turns your pushcart into a premium electric golf caddy that can be controlled via remote or follow you via a magnetic smart tether. It rolls over bumps, goes up and down hills and carries your golf bag through the entire course — without any hassle. the terrain of the golf course and makes sure your cart goes straight even as it crosses hills, bumps and slopes. The gyroscope keeps your cart going at the right speeds in the right areas and prevents unwanted deviations or tumbles as you walk the course. Powerful motors keep the unit going
Let’s face it walking the course is great
strong even as it approaches hills. Save your
V2 to the next tee box. With a max range of
muscles from pushing or pulling your clubs
100 yards, the V2 will have no problem getting
uphill and let the Club Booster V2 do all the
your clubs ahead, as you and your friends finish
heavy lifting for you.
off the hole.
The Club Booster V2 also does well going
The 4400mAh Lithium-ion battery is
downhill. As the sensors in the motor detect a
guaranteed to last up to 500 cycles, which
downhill slope, the V2 automatically sets a
means it’ll last you years before needing
nice, even-paced controlled descent. Your
replacement. The battery runs for up to 27
gear will arrive safely at the bottom of the hill
holes on a single full charge. So don’t worry,
without risking damage or even a scratch.
you’ll have plenty of power to spare even at
Need to stop on an incline? The electronic
the end of the course. Playing multiple rounds
parking brake will keep your cart from
with no breaks? Impressive. You can purchase
rolling down the hill as you chip on.
an additional battery to go the extra rounds.
The magnetic Tether Follow System allows
The Club Booster V2 battery is removable and
exercise and it allows you to enjoy your round
Club Booster to follow you without a remote!
more, and with the recent Coronavirus
Simply clip and go. The Smart Tether
pandemic requiring players to exercise social
magnetically clips to an included metal belt
most push carts including those offered by
distancing on the course…it’s a lot safer too!
attachment. It then reads how far you are
ClicGear, Sun Mountain, Bag Boy, Rovic and
But carrying your golf bag creates strain on
from your cart as well as your angle of
Big Max and is adapted to work on both
your arms and back while you’re playing, and
movement and adjusts your cart’s speed and
3-wheel and 4-wheel models.
no one enjoys pushing a cart up and down a
direction to match. The Smart Tether can be
hilly course for 18 holes.
easily attached to your golf bag without
via indiegogo INDEMAND for just $549.00
hassle and communicates with your Club
and includes perks like an upgraded battery, a
your clubs follow you wherever you go! Or
Booster via Bluetooth. It’s ready to go out of
Tether Follow System, and a set of stabilizing
have them meet you at the next tee — all
the box, so you don’t have to fuss over setup.
Wheelie Bars for FREE!
With the Club Booster V2, you can have
without straining your muscles. An integrated 6-axis gyroscope detects
If you need some more control, simply use the remote control to steer your Club Booster
can be easily switched. The Club Booster V2 is designed to fit on
Right now the Club Booster V2 is available
Visit www.indiegogo.com and search “Alphard” to order yours now!
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
47
OnCore PRO SHOP
BUSINESS ACUMEN
By ED TRAVIS
R
Golf’s Disruptor
ATHER THAN THE USUAL RUBBER-LIKE CORE
covered by two or more layers of plastic their OnCore MA1.0 had in the center a hollow steel ball just under an inch in diameter and testing showed it helped average golfers hit straighter. However, there was a major problem namely getting a steel-centered ball accepted
golfers over the Internet. For equipment geeks all this may be
NEGM: Can you briefly tell us your
background before getting into the golf ball business?
Blakely: Prior to OnCore Golf I was working at Full Six, which was an advertising agency based out of Paris and I was in the NYC office. We worked in the digital advertising space and
for play by the United States Golf Association.
interesting, but it only scratches the surface of
it provided a lot of great experience. I finished
This brash young startup organization
the intriguing projects the company is
college with a major in communications and a
accepted the challenge and ultimately
working on led by Blakely’s father Keith as
minor in marketing/advertising. I have always
convinced the USGA to change the Rules of
CEO with Blakely the Branding and
been interested in anything creative, so
Golf making the MA-1.0 “legal”. Still not
Marketing Vice President and Coulton the
marketing and advertising was an easy path to
satisfied, they went on to develop a second
Sales Vice President.
choose to go down in my schooling.
better performing model called the Caliber. Today OnCore has moved and no longer
Northeast Golf asked Blakely about the company and their efforts to create what they
has a metal-core ball in the lineup selling golf
feel will be “disruptors” of the golf
balls of traditional construction directly to
equipment and golf entertainment businesses.
NEGM: The industry’s first look at an
OnCore product was the hollow steel core MA ball. What gave you the idea originally and what challenges did you face getting
The GENiUS golf ball. The “golf ball with a brain.”
USGA approval for this unique construction back in 2013?
Blakely: The first ball was developed by a team of engineers led by Douglas DuFaux who still works with the company. He and his engineer friends essentially had a bad round of golf and being the inventors, they are, decided they would be able to fix the ball faster than they would be able to fix their swing. The concept behind putting a .9-inch hollow steel core inside the golf ball was to create a perimeter weighted golf ball. Perimeter weighting means it would reduce the initial side spin off the tee, creating less dispersion for a more accurate shot.
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A PR I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Steve Coulton, left, and Bret Blakely are co-founders of OnCore Golf, which sells a high-tech golf ball. (Derek Gee/ Buffalo News)
NEGM: OnCore presently has two models
NEGM: The direct-to-consumer sales
55 and the three-piece urethane cover
increasingly crowded and OnCore is
of balls, the two-piece Surlyn-cover Avant Elixr. Which kind of golfer is targeted for each and which is the bestselling?
Blakel: The Avant 55 is meant for slower swing speeds and for golfers who like a really
model for golf balls is becoming
selling both on its website as well as
through traditional retailers like PGA Tour Superstore and online outlets such as Amazon.
NEGM: What is your market share goal for OnCore balls?
Blakely: We don’t really look at market share so much as targeting a population of golfers to become part of Team OnCore. Our goal is to engage with as many of the 22 million golfers in the US as possible but we’re
soft feel. It’s great with distance, feel and is the
Blakely: OnCore has actually moved
also realistic and know that if we reach a few
lower price point of the two golf balls. The
completely to a direct to consumer model.
percent of those golfers, we’ll be making a
ELIXR is our top of the line tour ball and is
We have always put an emphasis on the
significant difference in a lot of golf games.
built for avid golfers but also performs really
D2C route but are now all in on that as
well for swing speeds even in the mid 80’s
trends of online buying are ever increasing
which most tour balls don’t do. It has
and not going anywhere, unlike its
perimeter weighting from the innovative
counterpart of traditional brick and mortar.
addition of high-density particles in the
We like to be able to tell our own story on
mantle. These create a much straighter-flying
the website and create that connection with
golf ball, with extremely high velocity off the
our customers which is something you lose
tee, outstanding play in windy conditions and
when you have others selling your product.
the thick urethane cover and 85 compression
When a pro shop wants to order—usually
make it outstanding around the greens with a
because members are asking for it— we do
Blakely: All three are tremendous people
remarkable feel. Gary Player called it the best
sell it to them, but we do not actively seek
who have been great supporters both with
feeling golf ball he has played in over 65 years.
out those opportunities and it’s been
their words of advice and encouragement and
The ELIXR outsells the Avant about 60/40.
working well for us!
with their checkbooks. The investment
NEGM: Some well-known names have made investments in OnCore: Charles
Schwab, the investor and brokerage firm
founder, Hall of Famer Gary Player and Al Geiberger, Mr. 59, the first to score a
sub-60 round in a PGA Tour event. What
part do they play in OnCore and how have they influenced the company’s plans?
NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
49
PRO SHOP
BUSINESS ACUMEN
NEGM: OnCore recently
rounds led by financial icon
signed an agreement with
Charles Schwab have allowed us to
CHIP’d for continued work
get the inventory needed in place, move forward projects like the The Swingman, Jeremy Nowak looking fresh in OnCore Golf gear next to OnRange.
GENiUS ball, OnCore Buffalo, OnRange and focus on creating partnerships with a variety of companies that will create further
on the GENiUS golf ball. Can you describe the technology being developed for the
GENiUS and the status of the project which was originally
targeted for release in 2019?
disruption via OnCore in the entire
Blakely: We have been
golf industry.
working with a number of
Additionally, Al and Gary are legends in golf and have brought
groups having expertise in the
attention and credibility and a
Internet of Things (IoT),
rolodex of potential people that
microelectronics, advanced
can further help OnCore grow.
sensor technologies, and
We’re currently working on some
miniature power supplies in
other very notable ambassador
order to bring the GENiUS ball
announcements with some leading
to market later this year. Our
professional athlete/golfers.
objective remains the same – to deliver all of the information
NEGM: Rand Capital
that a launch monitor typically
Corporation (NASDAQ: RAND) has been an
provides regarding ball performance –
investor since 2014. Do they have a role in
velocity, distance, spin rate, spin axis, launch
day to day operations and what role do
angle, and apex height – and provide
they play in long range planning?
locational information that can be combined
Blakely: Rand has been an important
with course GPS to determine where the ball
investor since our earliest days. Peter Grum,
is and how far it is from the green. The next
their President, is one of OnCore’s outside
step is to combine those internal electronic
directors and helps advise the company on
components with the protective shell we
strategic and financial matters.
patented two years ago and optimize the ball’s performance and ensure operating
NEGM: Rand and OnCore have
reliability of the electronics. Our current
announced construction of a $30 million
year-round sports complex in Buffalo that would include a three-tier golf range for a 2021 opening. What can you tell us about the project’s progress and timing?
Blakely: This sports and entertainment
project plan has this being completed OnCore Buffalo is a $30 million year-round sports and entertainment complex that will include some of the most advanced ball tracking, golf instruction, gamification, and social media engagement of any facility in the US.
sometime in the third quarter of this year.
NEGM: Another of the cutting-edge
technologies OnCore is involved in is the iPutt ball. What is iPutt and how is ball development progressing?
complex is going to set the bar for golf
currently preparing the site for a
experience and we’re very excited about it.
groundbreaking this summer. We expect it
Blakely: We have already completed 95% of
With the backing of a very successful local
will open one year later and will include some
the development of the iPutt ball which will
businessman, Joe Carubba, we were able to
of the most advanced ball tracking, golf
be used in miniature golf facilities in Florida
acquire a seven-acre parcel along the Buffalo
instruction, gamification, and social media
and being planned throughout the United
River very close to downtown and are
engagement of any facility in the US.
States. The iPutt ball contains many of the
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A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
same elements of the GENiUS ball but doesn’t have to survive the impact of a driver on the tee so it was a bit easier to bring it to fruition. Its primary purpose is to keep score electronically and report the player, hole, and stroke count after each hole to an electronic leaderboard and to a smartphone app.
NEGM: Recently an agreement has been reached with PopStroke, the owners of golf entertainment restaurants with
putting courses designed by Tiger Woods. What involvement will PopStroke have in the iPuttt ball design?
Blakely: Even though the iPutt ball doesn’t have to survive the rigors of
The ELIXR combines a polybutadiene rubber core, metal-infused ionomer mantle and cast urethane cover to create one of the most exceptional tour balls on the market. The more dozens you purchase the more money you save.
on-course play, figuring out whether a ball’s movement was an actual putting
can quickly identify and assist golfers of all
stroke or not, knowing when the ball is on
skill levels in improving their swings and
a particular hole on the course, and
achieving better results. Our belief is that
preventing manipulation or errors in the
many golfers don’t have the time, money,
scoring was not a trivial matter. The
or access to traditional golf instruction and
PopStroke folks helped us to identify all of
by delivering this to them in their homes,
the likely scenarios that the ball would
using only their smartphone, they’ll be
encounter, determine how long the ball had
much more inclined to stick with what is a
to be powered, what communications and
very difficult game.
software elements needed to be included,
NEGM: What is your vision for the growth
business approach to encouraging golfers to
The iPutt ball which will be used in miniature golf facilities in Florida and being planned throughout the United States. The iPutt ball contains many of the same elements of the GENiUS ball but doesn’t have to survive the impact of a driver on the tee so it was a bit easier to bring it to fruition. Its primary purpose is to keep score electronically and report the player, hole, and stroke count after each hole to an electronic leaderboard and to a smartphone app.
practice their game. By offering to bring
when they hit the links.
exciting time for us. In five years, we expect
launch monitor technology to a driving
NEGM: It has been announced Oncore and
the whole golf world to point to OnCore as
range or practice facility—at no cost to the
Golf Boost, who specializes in artificial
a story unlike any other in golf, starting as
facility—and then making the practice
intelligence body recognition technology, will
a small golf ball company that introduced a
session much richer by providing data,
work together on analytical/instructional
crazy idea of a ball with a hollow metal
competitive challenges and archiving session
tools for golf. Please tell us the goal for this
core to a company that is doing more than
results we hope to provide golfers with
new agreement.
any other in terms of using innovation and
incentives to practice more and practice
Blakely: Employing artificial intelligence
out of the box thinking to disrupt and
smarter leading to much more enjoyment
with standardized golf swing models, we
and a number of other considerations.
NEGM: OnRange is another of OnCore’s initiatives for golf practice ranges. Can
describe the technology and how it has been accepted by range operators?
Blakely: OnRange is our innovative
of Oncore for the next five years?
Blakely: We hope to have solidified disruptive partnerships and efforts that span across 3 verticals of golf—products, technologies, and experiences. These are things that we are well on our way to currently which makes it an extremely
enhance the game. OnCoreGolf.com NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
51
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NORTHE AS T.G OL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
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PRO SHOP A P PA R E L & ACC E S S O R I E S
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A PR I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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PRO SHOP A P PA R E L & ACC E S S O R I E S
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A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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When you come to the Pinehurst, Southern Pines Aberdeen Equipment shipped by Ben Hogan Company. Area, you come to play. But we’re not just referring to the worldclass**golf for. Here,selected shopowners along historic 500we’re voters known will be randomly for a Free One-Year Subscription to NorthMain Street offer local treasures, and chefs craft a range east Golf Magazine. A $30 value. of culinary delights. From hiking and shopping to sipping craft brews, discover a small town that’s big on memory making. homeofgolf.com We invite you to come and explore a vacation with a Southern Accent.
Visit Northeast.Golf/Vote Today!
A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS COASTAL MAINE
Spectacular
Coastal Maine GOLF RESORTS
BY Alice & Danny Scott
The Destination Forested roadways lined by lakes, streams and rivers flowing into the mighty Atlantic evoke a sense of wonder in Coastal Maine. Beach and mountain parks with nature preserves beckon woodsy hikes and coastal tours. Historic lighthouses, seals and puffins pop up along the shores. Quaint Maine throbs with patriotic jubilation not just in July but all year long. Travel restrictions aside, a scenic seaside trip to Maine may serve as the perfect antidote for golfers and families to destress with a serene getaway.
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A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort
The Venues
required for old fashioned summer fun. Rent in the lodge
Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort plans to reopen
or a cottage with one to ten bedrooms. The Ruth, a ship
for the season May 14. Coastal cottage décor reflects the
built in 1935, offers tours of the fishing villages, a Pirate
tranquility of this retreat as crisp and clean as the ocean
cruise, whale sightings and the history of lobster fishing.
air. Coastal Prime, the center point of the resort, is
Explore the onsite lighthouse, join campfire singalongs
positioned in the harbor with an expansive waterside
or relax in the world class spa. www.sebasco.com
deck serving all meals and sunset views. Luxury meets nature in this elegant hideaway with a footbridge leading
The Golf
to specialty shops. Beware, the motto “Visit Once, Stay
Boothbay Harbor Country Club extends its membership
Forever,” it might come true for you, Maines newest
privileges to guests of Boothbay Harbor Oceanside
tagline is “Staycationland”. Watch for special golf
Resort. The pristinely conditioned course and attentive
packages on www.boothbayharboroceansideresort.com
service with caddies combine with stunning views of the
At Samoset Resort on the Ocean in Rockport all
harbor region. Carts traverse babbling brooks, rattling
rooms have a balcony view and the spa incorporates the
over wooden bridges with granite outcroppings and pines
scents and sounds of the sea. Sipping a signature
that frame each fairway as the course challenges shot
cocktail, from the splash bar at the zero-entry pool
making of every variety. After golf, become the gallery
overlooking Penobscot Bay, will calm the most alpha
and enjoy lunch or drinks at Over the Ledge, connected to
personalities. Marcel’s preeminent dining and the casual
the stately clubhouse, awarded one of the best
Breakwater Café present the same striking ocean
architectural designs in New England.
backdrop. A two-mile trek across boulders to the
Samoset Golf Course takes advantage of its coastal
lighthouse over the bay gives a totally different
position with water views from most holes. The signature
perspective on land and sea. www.samosetresort.com
number 4, par 5 is outlined by the ocean with the
Sebasco Harbor Resort feels like a big campground
Rockland Breakwater and lighthouse beyond. The back
but with comfortable accommodations, exquisite food,
nine begins with a different water view with a peninsula
and a fun 9-hole course. Built between 1909-12 and
green, fountains and woods through 13, then more ocean
renovated over the years, flip flop attire is all that is
views through the finish for a visually inspiring course.
NORTHE AS T.GOL F | AP R I L / M AY 2020
61
A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS CO A S TA L M A I N E
Sebasco Harbor’s 9- hole course begins with an original hole from the 1920s, very straight forward followed by a tough par 3 shot on number 2 to a matchbox size green over water that changes with the flow of the tide from Casco Bay’s inlet. Rock formations surround tee boxes while towering pines guard the fairways through the hills and valleys of Sebasco Harbor Resort.
And More Harbors are for boats after all so whether you like to sail, kayak, paddle or simply watch, these venues are premium seaside spots. Discover antique stores or the fruits of farmers’ market productions along the roadsides. Enjoy professional small theater performances, festivals and fairs. Visit lighthouses, forts or the Maine Maritime Museum. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is
Sebasco Harbor Resort
the largest in the northeast. Foodies will enjoy the fresh and creative selections throughout the region, not to mention everything lobster.
Our Takeaway In this ominous and chaotic time of world history when everything is in question, it is the memories of places like Coastal Maine that calm us. We fondly remember the fresh breeze blowing in off the pebbled beaches as dogs chase balls and children lick ice cream cones. Coastal Maine delivers tranquility with a slice of American pie, serving up coastal contentment. We look forward to returning to the golf and shore of Coastal Maine to make new memories which is now everything.
The Journey Road trip! Pack the cooler and the foursome or kids. Take Coastal Hwy 1 for a scenic ride in the north to Rockport’s Samoset. Sebasco Harbor to the south is off the 209 Hwy. Midway between, take 27 off Hwy 1 to Samoset Resort
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A PR I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
Boothbay Harbor. Stop along the way to fully absorb breathtaking views.
DESTINATIONS
Great
CLUBCORP
Golf
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2 Nights, 3 Rounds Starting: Spring / Fall Weekdays - $170 Weekends - $191
First Class Accommodations Excellent Dining Exciting Nightlife
“Great Golf is Just the Beginning” Ocean City, Maryland
www.OceanCityGolf.com
THE CLOSING 9 LET’S PLAY
Why Is Golf Essential BY BIANCA CAPOMOLLA
1 Social Distancing: Golf is a sport that is played with builtin social distancing. Just eliminate all human contact by
skipping the handshake, the drink at the clubhouse, and your good to go!
2 Exercise Outside: The average golfer walking 18 holes can cover 5-6 miles in a round, and even a rider chalks up 2-3
miles of exercise along with a ton of strengthening motions.
3 Groups of 4 or less: Keep groups to a maximum of 4 people and stay 6 feet apart at all times to ensure the safety of all players.
4 Don’t need to touch flagstick: Golfers can leave flagsticks in the holes which is already legal under the rules of golf. No germ spreading.
64
6 Don’t need to touch the rake in bunkers: Greens
crews have removed the rakes from the bunkers as to not transfer germs. Now they are truly hazards.
7 S ingle Carts: Carts are limited to one player at a time, and they are thoroughly disinfected after each use.
8 Clears Your Mind: During these trying times, golf is a great way to relieve stress and clear your mind.
9 USGA Approved: You can still put your scores in
for handicap purposes even though the ball was not “holed out.”
Do you think golf should be an essential business? We want to know your thoughts. Tag us or email us below:
5 Don’t need to get ball out of hole: Grounds crews at some
@northeastgolfmagazine
courses have installed the cups so people don’t have to
@northeast.golf
reach inside. Cups are either raised or filled with an object.
info@newengland.media
A P R I L / M AY 2 02 0 | NORTHE AST.G OLF
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