July 2015

WHERE

CHAMPIONS PLAY LABOR DAY ON

THE TOUR’S TOP 100 | TPC BOSTON | SEPTEMBER 2-7 Tickets: DBCHAMPIONSHIP.COM

Big Sticks ½ | Broken Tee ½

459

4593 NE Golf Monthly ad PrinterOL.indd 1

5/29/15 11:12 AM

negm_2012_Layout 1 5/29/2015 3:31 PM Page 1

CHIP CLOSER - SINK MORE PUTTS - IMPROVE SAND & WEDGE PLAY

Play Your Best Golf. This Year.

The lower you score, the more fun golf can be. Come to a 1-day clinic and learn the essential short game & putting skills you need to improve your scores.

Pinehills GC Aug. 5 - 8

pelzgolf.com 888-DavePelz

Play Florida’s Best!

Challenge your buddies on Central Florida’s two best courses at one great resort.

El Campeon (#1 in U.S.A. - Golf Advisor) & Las Colinas (#25 in FL - Golfweek) Book your Fall & Winter Golf Package NOW at 25% OFF! MissionInnResort.com/golf 800-697-9688 | Howey-in-tHe-Hills, Fl 34737 GOLF • SPA • FOUR RESTAURANTS • TRAP & SKEET • TENNIS • MARINA • LAKESIDE ACCOMMODATIONS

MIR_NEGM_3.7523x4.715_7.15.indd 1

6 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

6/30/15 8:22 AM

The Best Value in Destination Golf Premier Outing & Wedding Venue

30 minutes from Providence & Worcester 50 minutes from Boston & Hartford

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 7

FROM THE EDITOR

A New Age of Professional Golfers from New England Not so long ago there were very few professional golfers from New England that made it on the PGA Tour, Web.com Tour, LPGA Tour and Champions Tour. In The 80’s and 90’s we had a good run with Brad Faxon and Billy Andrade with 12 career PGA Tour wins over 2 decades. Both are best known today for their dedication over the last 17 years to the CVS Charity Classic bringing the best in golf to New England.

Prior to that it was Julius Boros, who in the 50’s an 60’s captured the heart of New England golf fans with a U.S Open win in Texas in 1952, and the great U.S. Open win at Brookline in 1963. He also edged out Arnold Palmer in 1968 in Texas for the PGA Championship. Boros, had a great career with 25 professional wins and 3 majors and is in the Golf Hall of Fame.

Not since has any golfer from New England accomplished anything close.

Keegan Bradley was the first New England golfer since to win a major at the 2011 PGA Championship at the Atlanta Athletic Club.

At this years Travelers Championship New England had 7 players, including Keegan Bradley, John Curran, Jim Renner,Brad Adamonis, JJ Henry, Peter Ulhlein, Tim Petrovic. and John Curran.

It would have been 9 if Scott Stallings had not changed his schedule and James Driscoll had qualified to play. We have more New England Tour players representing our region than any time in history.

On The Champions Tour we have Brad Faxon, Billy Andrade, Dana Quigley and P.H. Horgan. On the Web.com Tour Jeff Curl, Trevor Murphy,Fran Quinn, Brad Adamonis and this weeks Web.com winner Rob Openheim. On the LPGA Tour Brittany Altomare and Allison Walshe and watch out for Megan Khang to be the next big thing on the LPGA Tour, she knows how to win..

Today there are over 25 professional golfers from New England on various professional golf tour around the globe.

Timothy R. Branco Editor/ Publisher

8 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY

GOLF COURSE LIVING 10 Katharine Dyson / The Northeast 40 David DeSmith / The Abaco Club Bahamas

GOLF FASHION 16 GFW Staff /Summer Fashion Guide

10

21 GfW Staff / Sunglasses 21 Marisa Siino / Seeing the Fairways

GOLF TRAVEL 24 The Scotts / South Africa 26 Golf Vacations / Ireland & Scotland 27 Golf Prince Edward Island 29 Golf Mesquite Nevada

NEW ENGLAND MAJORS

CONTENTS

60

40

30 Gary Laravee / The 2017 Senior Open Salem CC

CELEBRITY GOLFERS 46 Leigh McKay / LPGA’s Mike Whan

TINKERS NEST 52 ED Travis / Balls Wedges & Putters

GORMAN VRS GEARY 76 Tom Gorman / Tim Geary / Is Spieth the Next Tiger

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR:

The Best Golf In New England Awards 2015

Vote at myNEGM.com/bestgolf2015

Cover Photo: Kyle Biedenbach

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 9

GOLF COURSE LIVING

Living and playing in the

Inland Regions of the Northeast When top golf instructor Michael Breed came to Syracuse, New York, in the middle of a blustery bone-chilling day this past February, his first words as he stood on the stage about to give a clinic to attendees at the NY Golf & Travel Show were, “I don’t see how you people do it.” He meant of course, how could anyone who loved golf possibly survive here when golf shuts down for several months.

Well, some head south for a few months, but most tough it out and may take up skiing while some simply love the weather just the way it is — or live here because of work and family commitments. And there is this: by the time spring rolls around and the tulips fairly rocket out of the ground and the grass turns lush and green, there is no better place to be. So we say, “When it’s golf weather in the northeast, why not live it up.”

CONNECTICUT

Off Track | Explore coastal beaches, Mystic Seaport, Six Flags amusement park; hike in Kettletown State Park; and attend regional concerts and performances. Also try your luck at Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos. Heritagevillage.org The Residences at Fox Hopyard, East Haddam Living | The energy-efficient Residences at Fox Hopyard occupy 230 acres of meadows and forests highlighted by a superb golf course

Heritage Village, Southbury Living | An amenity-rich retirement community of more than 2,580 condominiums, Heritage Village in the Litchfield Hills sits on 1,000 acres.

There are 11 different plans of resale homes featuring open floor plans with private patios or decks, air conditioning, fireplaces and covered parking with prices ranging from $100,000. Find tennis, a fitness center, four swimming pools and a pavilion. With more than 100 activities, clubs and organizations people can be as active as they wish.

Playing | Golfers covet both an 18-hole golf course designed by Al Zikorus as well as a challenging 9-hole golf course with an option of joining one or both. The courses wind through the communities with several holes cut through the hills and along the Pomeraug River.

10 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

where a first year golf club membership is included for all buyers. More than 50 home sites are clustered in cul-de-sac neighborhoods ducking in, out and around fairways and woods. Exteriors are typically clapboard, stone or cedar shingles in a variety of Coastal New England one-and two-story designs while interiors are light-filled, open and airy. Prices start

GOLF COURSE LIVING // BY KATHERINE DYSON around the mid $500,000s.

Playing | From tee off to finish this scenic track by Roger Rulewich carves determinedly through tall stands of trees, over hills, meadows and wetlands. Elevated tees and deep wide swales create drama yet the scenery and generous bailout areas eliminate a lot of angst. Facilities include a handsome shingled clubhouse, pro shop and a large driving range.

Off Track | Visit the Gillette Castle State Park, the Goodspeed Opera House, Essex, an historic shipbuilding and seafaring town, Devils Hopyard State Park, and the Connecticut shoreline.

Foxhopyardhomes.com

Sunday River Club: The Village off the Green & The Glades at Ridge Run, Newry Living | With a dramatic mountain setting, Sunday River operates as a ski area in the winter and a golf resort in the summer. The Village Off The Green rides up a wooded hillside from the seventeenth fairway where homes reveal sweeping views down the Sunday River Valley. The Glades at Ridge Run goes another route nestling into a wooded enclave on the slope along Ridge Run ski trail.

Playing | Sunday River designed by RT Jones Jr. rides through forests of the Mahoosuc Range overlooking the Sunday River Valley. You’ve gotta love it, especially in the fall when the mountains are carpeted in vibrant oranges, yellows and reds. For a mountain track, it is remarkably playable for all levels.

Off Track | Bike in the Sunday River Mountain Bike Park, fish, canoe, go zip lining, or hiking, try your skills on the Climbing Wall and play some disc golf.

Sundayriver.com

tennis community since it opened more than 20 years ago. With 27 holes of great golf, a 46,000 square foot clubhouse, eight Har-Tru tennis courts and a stadium court, fitness center, an Olympicsized pool, recreation center and private guest villas, home options include condominiums, villas and single-family homes. Two-story classic New Englandstyle homes start at more than $1 million while new fairway luxury townhomes of 2,735 square feet are priced from $895,000.

Playing | Winding along Shoestring Bay and through the property’s cranberry bogs, the beautifully maintained and scenic three nines, Bay, Bend and Bog courses are private.

Off Track | Cape Cod’s beaches and dunes as well as a plethora of water sports and Plimoth Plantation are just a few minutes away.

Willowbendcapecod.com Living | The Overlook at Renaissance, Haverhill Residents who move into The Overlook at Renaissance will celebrate beautiful views of the Merrimack River Valley and Southern New Hampshire as well as the golf course stretching out below. There are just 63 single-family residences and home sites on 65 acres Just 40 minutes from Boston. Home sites are priced from $225,000.

Playing | There is a private 210-acre tree-lined Brian Silva-designed classic-style course (2006) along with a 30,000 square-foot shingled Clubhouse and a nine-acre practice facility. Find a unique mix of open fescue-lined broad-sweeping holes with large waste bunkers and tree-lined parkland-style holes.

Off Track | Browse through the studios of artists in Rockport and visit historic Marblehead. Sail on a schooner from Gloucester and stroll Northshore beaches. Or head into Boston for all sorts of activities and sights. Renaissancema.com

MASSACHUSETTS

NEW HAMPSHIRE

MAINE

Willowbend, Mashpee Living | Close to Cape Cod, classy, gated Willowbend has been a thriving world-class golf and

Eastman, Grantham Living | Located in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, Eastman’s single-family homes,

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 11

Off Track | Activities include tennis, swimming, rowing, and water sports as well as snowboarding and skiing in the winter. Nearby visit the Simon Pearce glass headquarters, Woodstock, Vermont, Dartmouth College and Quechee State Park.

Quecheelakes.com

NEW YORK

Whiteface Club & Resort, Lake Placid condominiums and lots overlook fairways and a two-mile lake. With more than 3,700 acres of environmentally protected woodlands laced by nature trails, Eastman residents share a love of the outdoors. There is a tennis center with eight Har-Tru courts and two hard courts, a Nordic ski center and the South Cove Activity Center. Homes are priced from about $130,000; condos from $115,000 and lots from $11,500.

Playing | Eastman Golf Links is a public course with affordable membership options, including discounted rates for Eastman property owners. The course is cut through rolling hills and woodlands with plenty of lovely vistas.

Off Track | Eastman has boating and fishing, nature trails, baseball, volleyball courts, shared gardens, basketball, evening lectures and other events while educational and entertainment opportunities are available in Hanover and New London. Eastmannh.org

VERMONT

Quechee Lakes, Hartford Living | Quechee Lakes is a 5,500-acre treasure trove for those who like to play golf, fish in the pools of the Ottaquechee River and soak up nature.

Residents enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, squash court, health club and hiking trails. There are 600 single-family homes along with condominium villages set into the hills with prices ranging from the low $100,000s to more than $1 million.

Playing | Tee up at two scenic courses designed

by Geoffrey Cornish: Highland traversing the pineclad hillsides and Lakeland set around the Ottauquechee River and Lake Pinneo.

12 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Living | On the west shore of Lake Placid, many of the homes at Whiteface Club & Resort evoke the Great Camp era in the Adirondacks when the hopelessly rich came to “rough” it in comfort. Welcoming many famous guests over the years since the late 1800s, the architecture of the Whiteface Club reflects the rustic style of historic great camps with stone and timber exteriors, twisted wood branch railings and high vaulted ceilings. Condos typically sell from the mid $500,000s.

Playing | Ranked the 4th Best Classic Course in the state, The Whiteface Experience dates from 1898 while the backdrop of high-pitched mountains are ageless. The course is memorable for its cloverleaf –shaped greens and bunkers.

Off Track | Visit Olympic venues, walk to High Falls Gorge, and take in the free outdoor concerts by the Lake Placid Sinfonietta as well as exhibitions at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts. whitefaceclubresort.com Bristol Harbour Village, Canandaigua Living | Waterfront condominiums, lakeview and golf-side townhouses, patio homes and wooded and waterfront estate lots are all part of Bristol Harbour Village that sits on 450 acres. Residents have easy access to the lake as well as the golf course, LifePath Spa, fitness room, marina and Lodge Restaurant. Prices are in the mid-$100,000s to about $500,000.

Playing | Twenty-five years ago when Robert Trent Jones came to Canandaigua, looking from the hilltop site down to the lake, he said, “In all the world and of all the properties I’ve seen, this one has just been waiting for a golf course.” Today this lovely rolling track stands as one of the most scenic in the state.

Off Track | There are more than 100 vineyards and a vibrant new craft beer industry in the region along with several state and local parks where the

hiking trails and waterfalls are splendid. Stop at the New York Wine & Culinary Center in Canandaigua for an overview. Bristolharbour.com

RHODE ISLAND

Fenner Hill Country Club, Hopkinton Living | The condominium community of Fenner Hill is situated on 30 acres punctuated by aged trees, meadows and stonewalls. One- and two-

RETIREMENT INVESTING IS LIKE PLAYING GOLF The closer you are… the more accurate you must be.

level homes feature open floor plans, large windows, gables, patios and garages. The gracious clubhouse and popular Fratelli’s Pub & Grille is located in a restored farmhouse where the patio overlooks the 18th green.

Playing | Opening in 1999 and playing 6,650 from he tips, this semi-private course is designed for all levels of play. Cut through rock outcroppings, and woodlands and accented by meandering streams and bridges, there are no forced carries from the front but a few from the back. A variety of membership packages are available.

Off track | Discover Mystic, Connecticut and Providence and enjoy the array of water sports Rhode Island offers like boating, fishing and beaches. Fennerhil.com

Get your FREE, No Obligation Copy of Bill’s book Senior Safe Money Strategies His 288 page ebook will be sent directly to your inbox.

Call 888-800-1881

VERMONT

Spruce Peak at Stowe Living | For those who love the outdoors and privacy a mountain environment brings, Spruce Peak invites you to ski in the winter, golf in the summer.

This high-net-worth community offers 3,000 square foot penthouses, condominiums, mountain cabin townhomes, club residences, Mountain Lodge residences and estate homes with knockout views of ski trails and mountainsides.

Playing | When Bob Cupp put his finishing touches on Spruce Peak he said, “ There may be no finer collection of short par fours anywhere in America.” The beauty of the site with Mount Mansfield in the distance continues to astonish as the course climbs from the first tee through woodlands and over hills and craggy rocks of the valley.

Off Track | The stunning alpine setting affords high-spirited residents incredible opportunities off course including pools, restaurants, fitness center, skiing, skating, hiking, and performances at the Performing Arts Center. Sprucepeak.com

www.kellyfinancial.org

WILLIAM A. KELLY KELLY FINANCIAL SERVICES

EstatE and InvEstmEnt PlannIng REtIREmEnt suRvIval foR sEnIoRs (888) 800-1881

Maggie Tomkiewicz maggie@milburyre.com

Nina Weeks nina@milburyre.com

617.957.8769

508.525.6489

Round Hill, South Dartmouth, MA Round Hill a special waterfront private golfing community with amenities including sandy beach, golf, tennis, heated pool, clubhouse with cafĂŠ, and dinghy dock. Spacious shinglestyle homes starting at $785,000

14 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

LUXURIOUS, PRESTIGIOUS AND PRIVATE LIVING ON THE CAPE

This marvelous home located in Osterville, MA has breathtaking features for the distinctive and entertaining lifestyle. Located near some of the best beaches and golf courses on the Cape; Oyster Harbors, Wianno and Willowbend, this five bedroom, four and a half bath Colonial includes a 1st floor master wing with bath, fireplace, walk-in dressing room/closet and office suite. The cook’s kitchen has two Thermador ovens, Sub-Zero refrigerator. There is also a butler’s kitchen with cabinets and second Sub-Zero refrigerator. Formal living room and family room both with gas fireplaces. Library, exercise room, game room and two laundry rooms. Enormous basement ready to be finished! The professionally landscaped exterior is a must see with stone walls, patios and a tranquil garden. The home also has a three car garage with custom architectural details inside and outside.

For more information about this home or to schedule a tour please call Stephen Trimble.

STEPHEN A. TRIMBLE 781.424.2547 | satcapecod@hotmail.com http://www.buyandsellcapecodhomes.com/

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 1600 Falmouth Rd, Suite 2 Centerville, MA 02632

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

Summer Fashion Guide Fairway & Greene Fairway & Greene is young in age, rich in history. All of the Fairway & Greene product, from the first knits to today’s tech items, carries the same DNA and offers the same quality promise they have held for 16 years.

At Fairway & Greene, traditional colors in classic patterns are cut to fit the modern gentleman. When wearing Fairway & Greene you belong on any first tee in the world. Our favorites are the Tech Jersey Polo, Tech Seersucker Shorts and the Caves Quarter Zip. www.fairwayandgreene.com

B.Draddy B.Draddy works hard to create high quality products that are inspired by the past and the game of golf’s icons, while still using modern techniques for fabric construction and finishing. The clothes represent an aristocratic, bohemian look with both colors and fabrics that are naturally aged. The clothes are handsome, stylish, comfortable and unique! www.bdraddy.com

1616 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | March 2013

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

Aristo 18 Aristo 18 is an apparel collection that features the most natural fiber fabrics and unbelievable tailoring in the business. The designs of the apparel are classic, elegant and are inspired by the rich heritage of the game of golf. The name, Aristo 18, comes directly from the Greek language, where Aristo means “the best.” Aristo 18 uses exclusively designed fabrics: super 120’s and super 140’s that are in-fused with several different modern technologies such as stretch and nanotex stain-resistant treatments so you can perform your best either on or off of the course. www.aristo18.com

Mizuno Mizuno, who is mostly known for their outstanding golf equipment due to the time and effort they put into their research and development does the same for their apparel. Mizunos “DryLite” technology uses a moisture management polyester yarn that keeps the body dry, maintaining core body temperature. The classic Chest Stripe Polo Shirt is made using double mercerized cotton, providing superior hand feel and engineered stretch for freedom of movement. Be stylish on and off the course with Mizuno. www.mizunousa.com

Need to Know What To Wear On and off The Golf Course in 2014?

Sign Up for Fashion Friday FREE Online

17

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

Pukka Pukka Headwear will set your standards of a traditional hat company to an entirely new level. The company has been selling headwear as well as other accessories ever since 1992, and their company has done nothing but grow ever since. In 2003, the company built and launched their very own, unique business-tobusiness supply chain in order to fulfill the demand for total customization that many retailers and brands crave. Anyone who wants completely, 100% customized caps as well as tee-shirts should most definitely invest in Pukka. Pukka defined means “original, first class, quality� which perfectly embodies everything that the brand strives to get across. Pukka Headwear is a great, easy and stylish way to stay original, modern and comfortable at the same time. www.pukka.com

18 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

EP Sport Each season EP Sport designs a range of collections which pair versatile color palettes and patterns with the form and functionality of golf sportswear; effortlessly providing fashion suitable for both the course and the clubhouse. EP Sport features attention-grabbing print with moisture wicking fabric and a sporty design that is multi-functional - ideal for the golf course, the gym, or anywhere. www.eppro.com

Catherine Wingate Catherine Wingate is a luxury brand of women’s golf apparel that was created in Beverly Hills, California in 2012. The brand was founded on the belief that women golfers can be athletic and chic at the same time.

Using only high performance athletic fabrics to allow golfers to feel their best, each piece of our line was designed to allow our customers to effortlessly go straight from the golf course to the clubhouse. Their goal was simple, have ladies looking and playing their best on the golf course. www.catherinewingate-apparel.com

20 20 Subscribe at myNEGM.com July 2015 2015 20|||Subscribe Subscribeat atmyNEGM.com myNEGM.com || | July March 2013

GOLF FASHION WEEKLY

Seeing the Fairways

By Marisa Siino

Looking good while playing golf is very important. Golf is one of the most fashionable sports and it is apparent that good golfers look even better. Finding the right fashions is the easy part. The difficult part is looking good while being confortable. Now you can have all of it in three trendy, comfortable and great quality sunglasses.

BENRUS Aviator -Matte Black ($148)

The original Aviator has been U.S. Military standard issue since 1982. Performance and utility meet fashion with these battle tested, mil-spec sunglasses. The Matte Black is your classic finish; your tried and true go to color. Worn by pilots, taste-makers, and those who demand the best.

They are available in 55MM or 58MM lens widths, with 100% UV protection. For customized fit these glasses have adjustable cushioned nose pads.

These come with a case, microfiber cleaning cloth and a small maintenance kit. The classic Aviator style is timeless and will be fashionable for many years to come.

Tifosi Rumor ($69.95)

These beautifully crafted sunglasses are perfect for your next golf outing. The lenses were specifically designed to help see a ball in flight and to read surfaces. The full frame and lightweight glasses have incredibly high bending strength. The Rubber ear and nose pieces are known for giving you a snug, no slip, adjustable fit. The polarized embedded lenses are also

vented so air can circulate to stop fog. Coming in three fits, large, medium and small you’ll be able to find the perfect size for you. The lenses are also interchangeable depending on which level of contrast you’d like. The GT lenses are highly recommended for golfers.

Maui Jim Stone Crushers — ($199)

These lightweight sunglasses made by Maui Jim are comfortable for you to wear all day long. They are made to be durable and withstand your all day adventures. Perfect for sporting activities with three choices of polarized Clearshell lenses. The high gloss finish gives you a sleek look while also being form fitted. Coming in matte black, matte rootbeer and white pearl you’ll be able to find the perfect style for you.

The polycarbonate material is scratch and impact resistant while also giving you vivid color.

Canceling 99.9% of glare and 100% of harmful UVs these glasses will give you a more clear and healthy view.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 21

22 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 23

GOLF TRAVEL

Got Game?

South Africa Does

By Alice & Danny Scott

South Africa is full of game (both golf and wildlife) plus knockout coastal views, the most leisure diversity, and over 400 wineries. Fly into Capetown, the Mother City at the base of Table Mountain, and ride the gondola to the top for hiking and viewing the capes below. In the distance is Robben Island, South Africa’s Alcatraz where Nelson Mandela served time.

His mighty footprint looms large, a reminder of peace in this rainbow nation of 11 official languages. Afrikaans is the easiest to learn although everyone speaks English. Thank you very much translates as Baie dankie, pronounced Buy a Donkey. It was our mantra.

Capetown’s Waterfront is a central harbor district of artisan shops, restaurants, aquarium and upscale mall. A dramatic drive along the Atlantic Seaboard leads to the southern tip, close to Antarctica where we fell in love with jackasses - South African Jackass Penguins on Boulders Beach. We watched their life cycle in an hour as they preened and swam in and out of the water. En route from the parking area, tribal carvings and crafts were laid out for purchase and a band played for tips.

We continued to feel the beat at Gold’s for dinner, participating in a djembe drumming session and family style taste safari of native dishes, complemented by interludes of song, dance and face painting.

Cuisine is full of flavor with healthy fresh grains, veggies, fruits, seafood and lean, sweet not gamey meat. We first tried Springbok Carpaccio at Ernie Els winery. He role models the marriage between wine and golf in the Stellenbosch region where the pictur-

24 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

esque De Zalze Golf Club held the 2006 World Amateur Team Championships. Along the garden route, Arabella Golf Resort and Spa sits above the Bot River lagoon below Mount Heron. The signature Par 5 8th tee box deliv-

ers a 360 degree view with 100 foot elevation drop. Pinnacle Point is one of the most intimidating and exhilarating courses with

GOLF TRAVEL

Safety instructions are to stay seated and calm when animals are near. Our ranger explained the behaviors of different species as they appeared, then stopped for libations. What, we get out? One sip and giraffes started popping up like a series of jack in the boxes all wound up. They lined the horizon to the left and right as the sun was setting. Gin and tonics were abandoned for the photo shoot. More and more joined the

shear rock cliffs against the roaring Indian Ocean for scenery that surpasses both Bandon Dunes and Pebble Beach. Pezula Golf Resort is another seaside favorite in the town of Knysna (word meaning “straight down”).

So are many of the holes on this mountainous course with very few flat lies.

Fancourt¬ is an iconic resort represented

by Branden Grace, a top 4 winner, along with South African Oosthuizen in the US Open this

week. The number one ranked Links course was made famous by the 2003 Presidents Cup. This Gary Player’s Signature course is as tough as it is beautiful. The Montagu and Outeniqua parkland style courses feature lakeside greens and botanicals. All of the resorts were upscale luxury in accommodations, amenities, service and cuisine, even the game lodges.

One night at Kichaka, one night at Pumba, three safaris, four of the Big 5 and thousands more animals blew us away. Imagine an open range vehicle, Jurassic Park style.

cocktail party until they tolled 11, stretching and intertwining their heads. They split up and sauntered one by one, on the left and right in a time lapsed heart shape around us, as if choreographed under the full moon.

We were the first humans to see a White rhino with her wobbly-legged 3-week-old calf, fathered by one of 6 poached this year for their horns. Then we met a white lion family after dark. The king of the jungle lazed on the right side of the path, while mom and cubs frolicked on the left. It was intense as we gasped in awe and muffled our giggles. We waited for them to clear before safely returning to the lodge for another divine meal of kudu and drinks by the open fire.

This is a tiny glimpse of the wonders of South Africa; watch online for more. From $3,775 per person sharing a 12-night stay in 4-5 star properties, 6 rounds of golf, wineries and concluding with a game drive, we trust the guys for safety, at www.progolfsafaris. com. No ebola, no malaria in the eastern cape game drives. Got game? We’ll join you!

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 25

Where will your next golf vacation be?

Ireland or Scotland We Have Them Both Covered!

Looking ahead to 2016? Or still looking for ideas for 2015? Some availability remains at the top courses e.g. St Andrews. Contact us and let our experts plan your trip of a lifetime For more information on our tours and to make an enquiry:

Websites: www.golfvacationsireland | www.golfvacationsscotland.com Email info@golfvacationsireland.com or Call us at + 353 16013100.

We look forward to hearing from you at Golf Vacations Ireland and Scotland!

W W W . G O L F P E I . C A / F A L L

cottage or hotel

at your choice of courses

PAC K AG E S

Golf PEI's Fall Fore Golf Vacations are back - and better than ever!

Cottage

Standard Hotel

Premium Hotel

starting at

starting at

starting at

Accommodations

Accommodations

Accommodations

339pp $399pp $449pp

$

PICK ANY 3 OF OUR WORLD- CLASS COURSES

Deluxe Hotel

Accommodations starting at

Golf Villa

Accommodations (4 twins) starting at

Golf Villa

Accommodations (2 kings) starting at

559pp $349pp $369pp

$

Golf PEI Vacations are easier and more flexible than ever to book.

Don’t miss out on experiencing your choice of any of our 16 courses.

Just pick the package that’s for you, and let Golf PEI book your unforgettable golf vacation on this exceptional Island of ours.

1 866 GOLF-PEI

Visit www.golfpei.ca/fall today to book your Golf PEI Fall Fore Golf Getaway!

*Prices based on double occupancy . **Prices based on quad occupancy. Subject to availability, plus applicable taxes.

MAINE TRAVEL The Guaranteed Performance School of Golf boasts 7,000 satisfied graduates, on-course instruction, video analysis and a unique 3:1 student/ instructor ratio. Two day programs with lodging, 5 hours of instruction per day, unlimited golf and all meals are just $499 per person!

OPEN

The Bethel Inn Resort provides the perfect combination of golf, resort activities, dining options and country elegant accommodations. Located in the mountains of Maine, ideal for golfers, couples and groups alike.

Renowned architect Geoffrey Cornish designed the 6,663 yard, par 72 course to take maximum advantage of the mountain vistas and natural beauty of the area. Tree lined fairways, well-trapped greens and five tee positions make play challenging for golfers of every ability.

But the summer fun doesn’t end with golf. The health club with saunas, fitness room, outdoor heated pool, lake house, spa services, lawn games and tennis, plus two restaurants offering fine & casual tavern dining, provides ample diversions after your round.

Join us this summer and experience a complete & affordable getaway in the heart of Bethel, Maine. For the best golf deals in New England, visit bethelinn.com or call (800) 654-0125.

Bethel Inn Resort Escape to the Mountains of Maine!


(800) 654-0125 | www.bethelinn.com

28 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Bethel Inn Resort

Bethel Inn Resort

GOLF TRAVEL

The Secret is Out: GOLF MESQUITE, NEVADA The Virgin Valley is a Great Play and Just a Short Drive from Vegas

While Las Vegas is and always will be a Mecca for entertainment and great golf there is a lot to be said for the town of Mesquite, NV just an hour to the Northeast especial for those of you that are not fond of spending more for golf than your nightly hotel rate and dinner. What happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas is usually true but for the most part it’s your money that stays. You can get stay and play packages in Mesquite with world-class resort accommodations and golf included for as little as $99.00 per person per day and the courses are spectacular.

Mesquite is located about 80 miles Northeast of Las Vegas in the Virgin River Valley along the Arizona and Utah state borders. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of 2 million people in Vegas then Mesquite is for you. There are casinos and great resorts and seven of the best golf courses in the Southwest Region. For years golfers have watched The REMAX Long Drive World Championship from Mesquite but knew little about this great golf destination, the secret is out. Golf Mesquite will offer you as much golf as you and your group can handle and so much more with great resorts amenities at an unbelievable value.

Casablanca Resort Casino Golf & Spa and the Eureka Resort offer great facilities for small or large groups and 7 of the best

courses in the region are less than 10 minutes away.

The course at Casablanca is a great facility that yearly, host the Nevada Open. The Canyons and Palmer Courses at the Oasis are spectacular. Close by there is also Falcon Ridge, Coyote Springs, and the Palms. Mesquites newest golf course is Conestoga, which is managed by Troon, it is truly an artful masterpiece designed by Gary Panks.

Golf Mesquite offers complete golf packages with rooms, golf, spa visits at full service resort hotels. Some of the countries best state and National Parks are also in the region and Mesquite is a very popular destination for hiking and rock climbing as well. The nightlife, restaurants and resort amenities are world class. Contact Golf Mesquite at http://www.golfmesquitenevada.com

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 29

PRIVATE GOLF | BY GARY LARRABEE

Salem Country Club Hosting 6th

USGA Championship in 2017 When the Salem Country Club membership commissioned Donald Ross to create an 18-hole championship course in 1923, little could the members – or Ross – envision the long-term appeal the new layout would have with the United States Golf Association.

Ninety years and five USGA championships later (third most USGA events conducted in Massachusetts to The Country Club’s sixteen and Brae Burn’s seven), Ross’s legacy is firmly entrenched within the 120-year-old club located on what was the sprawling 350-acre Sanders Farm in Peabody. So too, is the club’s association with the United States Golf Association.

“We are exceedingly proud of our identification with Donald Ross and our relationship with the USGA,” says Salem president Ron Pascucci.

“We’re additionally proud that we’ll be hosting our sixth USGA championship in 2017.”

After a record-breaking U.S. Senior Open in 2001, the national championship for players 50 years of age and older finally retyurns to the north-of-Boston suburb 16 years later for a return engagement, June 29-July 2; the first Senior Open held on the east coast since Caves Valley outside Baltimore in 2002.

2001 US Senior Open Champion Bruce Fleisher Salem 2001 was the quickest advance sellout in the 22-year history of the championship. USGA and Salem officials will not be surprised if a similar standard is set once tickets are available (by mid-2016) for the renewal.

“The feedback we’ve received already from the corporate and fan sectors, though we are

30 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Gen Chairman Bill Sheehan, President Ron Pascucci, Exec Dir. Ed Carbone two years away, has been most encouraging,” says Bill Sheehan, general chairman. “The North Shore and Greater Boston community appears primed to support the championship as impressively as it did in 2001.”

Memories of the 2001 championship are vivid to many of us who were close to it all: • A frightening winter that led to extensive turf damage on the fairways and the greens • Members could not play the course until mid-May, forced to play some temporary greens into June • When defending champion Hale Irwin visited Salem for Media Day in late May, four weeks out from Championship Week (June 28-July 1), he observed, “It will take a miracle worker to get this place ready for the Open.” But with the masterful touch of veteran superintendent Kip Tyler (on board in 2015 for his 34th year at Salem), his staff and several area superintendents, the course shined for the participants and a worldwide television audience.

• Jack Nicklaus arriving late Monday for an entertaining solo nine-hole spin around Salem’s back nine shortly before dusk and sharing lively banter with the gallery • The thousands Nicklaus, and his two contemporary legends, Arnold Palmer and Gary

Player, attracted for a practice round.

• Record-setting competitive rounds shot by Jim Thorpe (65, matching Paul Harney’s mark set when he won the 1991 Massachusetts Open) then Jay Sigel (64) • Nicklaus bursting into contention with a 69 on Saturday that had his enormous gallery in a frenzy.

• The frightening thunder/lightning rain storms that struck late Saturday afternoon, postponing the completion of Round 3 until early Sunday morning, and again late Sunday afternoon, which forced final round tee times to begin earlier than normal, but perfect for the finish, which came only a few minutes before the Sunday storm struck • Nicklaus’s last heroic bid for a record ninth Senior major title, in which he was among four players tied for the lead with four holes to play before two late bogeys and a closing 70 left him two strokes behind winner Bruce Fleisher • Champion Fleisher’s solid play from start (69, first day leader) to finish (68 for level 280, the only player among final-round contenders to break par) • Behind the scenes, Fred Ridley was chairman of the USGA championship committee that year and USGA president-in-waiting (2004-2005), after which he became chairman of the competition committee for The Masters.

Weekend storms notwithstanding, this was a banner week for the USGA, Salem Country Club and Donald Ross. Within months, the USGA extended overtures about locking up Salem for another USGA championship, but the membership needed a breather, 16 years’ worth, it turns out, before it was ready to host another national championship.

During that time, Salem has made multi-million dollar upgrades to its clubhouse inside and out (expanded terrace facing No. 1 tee and No. 18 green) and practice range (with tees at both ends); built a new cart barn/club storage structure at the far end of the parking lot adjacent to the 18th hole; conducted a major tree-removal project; and, most recently, the membership voted to make a sizable expenditure to restore all 18 Ross greens to their original shape for the first time since their installation 90 years ago.

“The membership is dedicated to providing the

finest golf course for the players and finest hospitality and club amenities to those in attendance for the 2017 Senior Open,” says Sheehan. “All the improvements we have made over the years since 2001 have been long term for the benefit of the membership. But we’re happy we can share these improvements to all who attend the Open.”

1950 US Women’s Open Winner Babe Zaharias with Betty Hicks and Betsy Rawls Salem, though located in neighboring Peabody after being founded in the Witch City of Salem, has been on the USGA radar ever since it hosted its first national championship, the U.S. Women’s Amateur, in 1932. Virginia Van Wie won that depression-era tournament by the most lopsided margin in event history, 10 and 8, over five-time victor Glenna Collett Vare.

Next came Babe Zaharias’s historic 12-stroke victory in the 1954 U.S. Women’s Open while she battled cancer, which would take her life two years later, Dale Morey’s second straight win in the rain-slogged 1977 U.S. Senior Amateur, Hollis Stacy’s third U.S. Open victory in 1984 and Fleisher’s only major victory success in 2001.

As GolfWeek’s Bradley Klein wrote in his widely acclaimed biography, Discovering Donald Ross (Sleeping Bear Press), “Few of Ross’s courses have held up as well as Salem Country Club. It represents his design vision and detail in an extremely mature way, enough so that the layout … is virtually unchanged from the one designed and built in 1925.”

No wonder Salem has also served as arguably the most popular championship venue in the

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 31

region with five Massachusetts Amateurs, three Massachusetts Opens, four NEPGAs, six Massachusetts Women’s Amateurs and one New England men’s amateur.

The only significant change that has been made to the golf course since 2001, in addition to the upcoming greens project, is the installation of new championship tees on Nos. 9 and 18.

With the nines being switched for the championship to accommodate the galleries and television, that means the dogleg No. 9 (members’

Superintendent Kip Tyler 18th), will measure 439 yards from the tips and the championship 18th (No. 9 on the members’ card) will measure 425 yards. Total yardage will be 6840.

But in essence, it’s the same course Vare and Van Wie played in 1932 and the same that Fleisher handled in 2001. Just the way Ross wanted it.

“You don’t care to make changes on a great Ross course like Salem,” Kip Tyler says.

“Improvements are a different matter. Resto-

32 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

rations, like what we’re doing this fall with the greens, are improvements. The process enables us to enlarge the greens to their original size; size the greens lost over the course of many years, but primarily during World War II when labor was scarce and the greens, in essence, shrunk.

The greens also lost some square footage when the triplex mowers came on the scene and the drivers tended to make hard-cut ninety-degree corners that lost some green.”

No one knows Salem’s turf like Tyler, who was lured away from major championship venue Medinah CC in 1982 to properly prepare the course for the 1984 Women’s Open. He’s still here.

“This is a special piece of golf course land,” Tyler said. “Donald Ross made it that way and my staff and I have tried to keep it that way.”

They’ve succeeded in magnificent fashion.

Salem was in near-immaculate condition, exuding that championship shine, when this observer paid a visit during U.S. Open Week. It could have hosted the Senior Open this June, let along two Junes down the road.

“We couldn’t be happier with where we are course-wise, clubhouse-wise, and overall property-wise,” says Sheehan. “We expect to give the USGA, the players, our corporate clients and the fans a U.S. Senior Open they will not forget.”

Gary Larrabee has covered golf in the region for 45 years, has written eight country club histories for the likes of Salem and Wannamoisett (Northeast Amateur Golden Anniversary) Country Clubs and currently is serving his second stint as Media Liaison for Salem Country Club for the upcoming U.S. Senior Open)

A

Future Built on Tradition

Rhode Island’s Family Country Club We offer memberships for the entire family! Whether your interest is a resort-style pool, newly renovated restaurant, or golf, we have something for everyone. We invite you to join The Alpine Family!

Your Alpine lifestyle begins by calling 401.943.2670 AlpineCC.com

ÂŽ

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 33

2015 Member For a Day

Now Available $55.00 (includes cart) CALL 508-678-9828 TO BOOK TEE TIME

S U M M E R P R O M O T I O NA L R AT E S Category A Full Single Membership - $2,595 9 Month Membership | No Food Minimum 3 months - $1,995 *Free Jr. Membership with above until March 31st, 2016* Category B (7 Day Restricted) Membership - $2,195 Family Membership - $4,240 | Family Senior Membership - $3,915 Ages (27-35) - $1,845 | Ages (19-26) - $1,295 Weekend Membership - $1,200 | Social Golf Membership - $600

MEMBER FOR A DAY PROMOTION SUMMER 2015 (Includes Cart) July $55.00 | Call 508-677-9828 to Book Tee Times

Fall River Country Club

4232 North Main St., Fall River, MA 02720

Segregansett Country Club Come Play one of New Englands Best Private Golf Clubs

Member for a Day $50.00 Includes Cart & $5 Food Voucher

Memberships Now Available to June 30th, 2016 Single $2950 – Family $3200 – Mid Adult $2100 (21-29) – Young Adult $1500 (30-35)

Segregansett Country Club

84 Gulliver St Taunton, MA 02780 508-824-9110 Segregansett.com

36 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

For Memberships – Gary Palmer 508-942-5873 Member For A Day Tee Times 508-824-9144

A SEMI-PRIVATE RESORT COURSE THAT WILL MAKE YOU FORGET YOUR WAY HOME...

603.726.3076 | www.owlsnestresort.com 40 Clubhouse Lane Campton, NH | Just off exit 28

• Monday-Thursday $59 for the month of July- mention this ad when making tee times • Nine and Dine- Sunday after 3pm $50 includes cart and $15 credit towards dinner

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 37

Newport National

38 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

• 18 Holes of Championship Golf • Fully Stocked Pro Shop • New Practice Facility • Club Rentals & Lessons

A Must Play Cape Cod Golf Course

To book your round at Cranberry Valley:

Call 508-430-5234 Online booking: www.CranberryGolfCourse.com

183 Oak St. Harwich, MA

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR:

The Best Golf In New England Awards 2015

Vote at

myNEGM.com/bestgolf2015

COVER FEATURE

Island Paradise:

The Abaco Club

There are two kinds of tropical getaways. The first involves checking into a 600-room hotel where sunburned vacationers jockey for position in the breakfast buffet line with pale casino-goers fresh from a night at the tables. These are the mega-resorts, where you can commune with dolphins, take cooking classes with celebrity chefs, relive the ‘90s in pulsating discotheques, and if you’re lucky, stake out your own, private lounge chair poolside and sip drinks with umbrellas in ‘em.

40 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

The other kind of island vacation is a quieter, more self-indulgent affair, where the focus is on leaving the stress of the modern world behind, relaxing in the sun on an unspoiled beach, and interrupting your tanning schedule only long enough to play some golf or do a bit of snorkeling.

The Abaco Club is most decidedly the latter kind of destination. Situated on a picturesque island in The Bahamas, The Abaco Club doesn’t even have a hotel. In fact, it’s not really even a resort. It’s a private, international sporting club, where members and residents from all over the world come to escape the rigors of everyday life and kick back in a setting of unmatched luxury and beauty. But even though it’s a very private place, you can visit it and enjoy the Club as a guest.

The Abaco Club is situated on the most charming of The Bahamas’ Outer Islands—Great Abaco—and is graced by a 2-mile powder-soft beach that stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s easy to get to from New England, with connecting

flights into Abaco’s Marsh Harbour Airport from Miami, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale.

The Club’s Scottish-style links golf course is a real stunner and is perennially ranked as the finest in The Bahamas. Water sports galore also vie for your time—from kayaking, sailing and snorkeling to bonefishing and deep-sea fishing. Visiting the spa, tennis courts or fitness center are other invigorating options. Cap it off all with an open-air lunch at Buster’s Beach Bar, or the exquisite local cuisine offered daily at The Cliff House, and you have a place no one ever wants to leave.

Fortunately, if you decide to become a club member or homeowner there, you won’t have to. The island residences at The Abaco Club are magnificent, and range from cozy cabanas and charming cottages to grand oceanfront estates. It’s an atmosphere of quiet sophistication, where you, your family and friends can enjoy total relaxation when you want it—and a wealth of activities when the spirit moves you. In short, it’s Paradise with a capital P.

For more information or to book your Abaco Club vacation, visit theabacoclub.com

MOLORI UNPLUGGED | BY JOHN MOLORI

Patriots’ Ebner a study in emotion and discipline In his 26 years, New England Patriots’ safety and special teamer Nate Ebner has seen a lifetime of ups and downs. His father, Jeff, was fatally shot during a robbery at his Ohio business in 2008. This life-changing incident triggered an emotional roller coaster for young Nate, who immersed himself in his dad’s chosen sport of rugby and rose to elite level status.

Like his father, Nate also had a passion for football. Enrolled at Ohio State, he decided to forsake rugby and follow his dream, walking on with Jim Tressel’s Buckeyes as a junior.

With speed and toughness, Ebner became a versatile special teams’ stalwart and, not surprisingly, caught the eye of Bill Belichick. New England drafted Ebner in the 6th round of the 2012 draft. This past year, he hoisted the Super Bowl trophy and received his championship ring on June 14th.

While rugby and football came from Ebner’s dad, it was the female side of the family that triggered his love of golf.

“My mom played a lot of golf, so I started playing with her,” says Ebner, entering his fourth season with the Patriots. “My aunt’s house is at Ipswich Country Club, so I still play there a lot.”

For Ebner, golf is a break from the non-stop world of pro football. He relates, “It is definitely an escape. Golf is a fun way to challenge myself. When you’re in the NFL, it is football, football, football. Golf is a great way to get out there and interact with people.”

Ebner is realistic about his greatest golf moments. “If I can play nine holes without losing the ball, that’s a good day on the course. My goal is to understand why I hit a bad ball, and then make adjustments. Golf has always been a little

42 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

battle for me. It’s all about mental control, and staying out of my own head.”

An Ohio boy who has travelled the world via rugby, Ebner has found a golf home in the Northeast. He states, “I really like playing at Foxborough Country Club and would love to play TPC Boston and The Golf Club of New England. I am really impressed with the beautiful local courses in this area.”

Ebner outlines the contrast between golf and his other sports passions. “In rugby and football, you have to be tough, physical, fast, and explosive. To play golf, you have to have other skills.

Golf is a mental stressor, but I like it. You have to focus and get away from the physical nature of sports.”

That physical nature is prevalent in Ebner’s fulltime job, and there is no time for self-congratulations. He relates, “I don’t believe that you are

ever established in the NFL. I try to push myself and my teammates. Whatever role they want me to play is fine. With the Patriots, we take everything we do seriously.”

Despite Ebner’s obvious focus, the Patriots’ whirlwind run to a title did stir up memories of his father and family. “I can’t help but think about my family and loved ones who helped me get here. I don’t think the whole Super Bowl thing really hit me until I got that ring.

“It makes me feel good to play for a coach and team that appreciate what I do, but whether it is golf or football, I always try to stay locked in and compete.”

John Molori is the co-author of “The Cracker Jack Collection: Baseball’s Prized Players.” Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@aol.com

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 43

TOUR SNAPSHOT | BY JACK ROSS

Open Championship at St. Andrews will highlight the old and the new When the 144th Open Championship kicks off on the Old Course at St. Andrews on July 16, an “old and new” theme will prevail. The oldest championship, dating back to 1860, will be contested – for the 29th time -- on the oldest links in the world, where Scots have been slashing balls through dunes and tall fescue grass for over 500 years. Legends Tom Watson and Sir Nick Faldo, who collectively have won eight Claret Jugs, will be playing their final Opens and posing for the obligatory photos on the 700-year old Swilcan Bridge.

As for the new, the stodgy Royal and Ancient Golf Club grudgingly admitted that social norms have changed a bit since it was founded in 1754, and this year admitted its first female members.

And Jordan Spieth, the 21-year old phenomenon, will arrive in St. Andrews as the first player since Tiger Woods in 2002 to have won the first two majors, giving him a shot at an unprecedented feat: the modern Grand Slam.

There will no doubt be thousands of teary eyes when Watson takes his last stroll over the Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole. In 2009, at the age of 59, he came up one bad bounce short of winning his sixth Open title, which would have tied him with the immortal Harry Vardon. Watson embraced links golf, and is much loved among the Scots. Surprisingly, he never won the Open at St. Andrews. At age 65, he still has plenty of game.

Whoever is crowned the “Champion Golfer of the Year” Sunday will have successfully navigated around numerous pot bunkers, such as the 10-foot deep Hell Bunker on the 14th hole, the Coffin Bunkers on the 13th hole, and the Road Hole Bunker on the 17th hole. Sometimes the only option in these bunkers is to play out backwards.

A unique feature of the Old Course is double greens: seven greens are shared by two holes.

Some of the greens are immense; the green on the 568-yard 5th hole is 92 yards deep. A number

44 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

of the greens are fronted by deceptive ridges and swales.

Wind is a factor on any links course, and conditions can change drastically from morning to afternoon. The 174-yard 11th hole can require anything from a 9-iron to a 3-iron. Some of the par-4 holes will be reachable depending on the wind, including the 352-yard 9th hole and the 348yard 12th hole.

The 465-yard 13th hole, with its Coffin Bunkers, begins a brutal stretch of holes. The 618-yard 14th hole, where players have to avoid an out-of-bounds wall on the right and contend with the Hell Bunker on their second shot, is a three-shot hole into the wind.

But the signature hole of the Old Course is the Road Hole, which many consider to be the toughest par-4 in championship golf. The tee shot on this penultimate 495-yard hole is blind, traditionally played over the roof line of the Old Course Hotel. Players must avoid the Road Hole Bunker on the left, while long shots will find the road behind the green. The road and the stone wall along it are integral parts of the course, affording no relief.

We’ll see how well young Jordan Spieth fares in his first Open on the Old Course. If he hoists the Claret Jug on Sunday, he will be one leg away from the Grand Slam. But right now all he’s thinking about is how to avoid the Hell Bunker.

Try our...

Try Tryour... our...

Try our...

Indoor

Indoor Indoor Club Fitting Indoor

Club Fitting ClubFitting Fitting Club Our expert staff will help you find the perfect equipment to Our expert staff will help you find the Our expert staff will help you find the improve your game.

Try our Our expert staff willtohelp you find the perfect equipment improve your perfect equipment to improve your indoor custom club fitting with a perfect equipment tocustom improve your game.

Try our indoor club game.

Try our indoor custom club portable launch monitor, a great game.

Try our indoor custom club fitting with alearn portable launch monitor, fitting with a portable launch way to about yourmonitor, swing! fitting with atoportable launch monitor, a great way to learn about your swing! a great way learn about your swing! a great way to learn about your swing!

www.CapeAndIslandsGolf.com www.CapeAndIslandsGolf.com www.CapeAndIslandsGolf.com

1019Iyannough IyannoughRoad, Road,Hyannis, Hyannis,MA MA02601 02601 1019 1019 Iyannough Road, Hyannis, MA 02601 (508)771-4653 771-4653 (508) (508) 771-4653

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 45

CELEBRITY GOLFER // BY LEIGH MCKAY

Celebrity Golfer: Michael Whan,

Commissioner of the LPGA me about the job is that the Board wanted change. They knew that the old formula needed to be revamped; thus, the inertia against “new” was very low.

The LPGA was at a crossroads. It was half global, going international but not sure it should keep going. It was trying to sell international TV but not sure how far to go. It was not sure if the tour should play more overseas or less. We had language problems with people speaking six different languages but not one common language.

The Board was grappling with the current state of business and wanted somebody to say, “All right, let’s carve this path.” So, knowing that I’m a change junkie, I thought I would be a good fit.

Michael Whan became Commisioner of the LPGA on January 4, 2010, and was immediately confronted with the effects of trying to renew and generate new tournament title sponsorships during a recession. At that time, the tour seemed to lack leadership and direction. Total official prize money for that year was $41.4 million, a decrease of more than $6 million from 2009. In 2010, there were 24 official tournaments, down from 28 in 2009 and 34 in 2008.

Whan, now 50, who, as an executive, had made a career in marketing for Proctor & Gamble, Britesmile, Inc., Mission-Itech Hockey equipment, Wilson Sporting Goods, and TaylorMade, turned the LPGA’s fortunes around with sweeping changes in policy and vision.

For 2015, the LPGA has 32 tournaments—17 in the U.S., eight in Asia, two in Canada, and five in other far-flung destinations—with $60.5 million in official prize money.

The Commish is a straight shooter. Most importantly, he has never lost sight of his two main targets: to grow both the LPGA and the game of golf.

NEGM: What was your mandate from the LPGA Board of Directors?

MW: I’m a change fanatic. What intrigued

46 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

NEGM: What have you accomplished in your tenure as Commissioner?

MW: As you walk around this building [LPGA HQ in Daytona Beach], you’ll see signs on the walls that say, “Act like a Founder,” referencing the 13 visionary woman who started the LPGA in 1950. Those signs mean that we should do something, anything, to leave the game better for the next generation of young women as those 13 did for women’s golf.

And I’m proud that we’re leaving the game better than we found it. We’ve gone from having 4,000 girls a year enter this game through our Girls Golf program with the USGA to 50,000 this year.

And that matters! The NGF [National Golf Foundation] data stated that 190,000 girls under the age of 16 joined the game for the first time, last year alone. So, along with other initiatives like Get Golf Ready, The First Tee, and Drive, Chip, and Putt, we are getting more girls into the game. I’m proud of that accomplishment.

The first question I received at my first press conference was about what most people considered our greatest negative, “What are you going to do about all the international influences on this tour?”

I said, “Embrace them with open arms.” What ev-

CELEBRITY GOLFER eryone has learned six years later is that the global scope of the LPGA Tour is its greatest asset—not only why we’re alive but also why we are thriving.

We sell our TV rights to 165 countries, whereas 15 years ago, we sold these rights to 12 countries.

The LPGA is not in the business anymore of trying to make money by running golf tournaments. We lose money, but we don’t care because each tournament is an opportunity for our members, and every time they play we sell those TV rights to 165 countries. And that’s the business of the LPGA. When the LPGA plays at its venues around the world, it becomes a country—not a local—event. It becomes a spectacle, and we leave a lasting impression upon the people.

NEGM: Specifically, what steps are you and the LPGA taking to “grow the game” for girls and women?

MW: “Growing the game” has to start at an early age, really before 15. What’s unique about Girls Golf that makes it the only program of its kind is that the girls learn the game in an all-girls atmosphere.

We are making a difference in terms of getting girls interested in the game. Tied into this is that the collaboration among the biggest leaders in the game—USGA, PGA, R&A, European Tour, Augusta National, and LPGA—has never been better. It’s really kind of neat.

Growing the LPGA Tour is a different animal.

We bought the Symetra Tour and now run it like the LPGA Tour. The top-10 money winners now get cards to the LPGA, and the next 10 go directly to the final round of the “Q” School. We’ve moved almost all of our training and development programs to the Symetra Tour, and it has really become the training ground for the LPGA. With The Legends Tour, in April at the Chico’s Patty Berg Memorial event, we combined The Legends and the Symetra tours as a test market.

The Legends would have more opportunities to play in a bigger forum with more media coverage, and the Symetra players would interact with some incredible mentors. It was a great experience for everyone involved. We’ll do a few more of these down the road.

NEGM: Explain the events surrounding this year’s impressive first KPMG-sponsored Women’s PGA

Championship at Westchester CC?

MW: The Women’s PGA Championship is 60 years old, the second oldest major in women’s golf [U.S. Open began in 1946]. I wanted to find a partner who could think long term for this LPGA Championship. So I made a phone call to Pete Bevaqua, CEO of the PGA of America, and he and I met to sketch out the concept of the Women’s PGA Championship. KPMG signed up for a five-year deal with fiveyear renewals, and we were off and running. The purse went from $2.25 million to $3.5 million, and the entire 60-year-old major was elevated to a higher plane.

KPMG also insisted that the championship have impact outside the yellow ropes and pushed us to create the Women’s Leadership Summit, a catalyst to empower women on and off the golf course and to grow leadership skills for young women. On the Wednesday of tournament week, 300 women—100 of today’s leading executives and 200 of tomorrow’s leaders—attended the Summit to discuss initiatives that could advance women executives to higher leadership positions.

NEGM: Do you attend the tournaments? What are the major sponsors expecting for their support?

MW: I’m at almost every event for two days, usually Tuesday and Wednesday. Typically, on Tuesday, the title sponsor will bring in all its big customers for the evening “drawing” party, and Wednesday is the pro-am. I’ll play in about 25% of the pro-ams, sometimes with a customer we’re trying to sell or sometimes if a title sponsor wants me to play with one of their customers. The LPGA offers a level of accessibility and interaction with professional athletes that no other sponsorship has.

One of the things I sell to sponsors is that we are very customized, willing to build a tournament around the sponsors’ specific goals. I have to make sure we deliver a tournament that delivers their businesses. When an LPGA player signs in for an event, she gets a Customer Profile Card that says, “What you need to know this week.” At the top it says, “3 Things we need from you this week” and tells the

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 47

athlete what the sponsors are expecting from their sponsorship. Watch an LPGA player after I hand her a cardboard check. First person she’ll thank is the title sponsor. We thank the sponsors who pay us. That’s our deal as players.

NEGM: What would you like your legacy to be as the LPGA Commissioner?

MW: Three facets. (1) That I left the game better for the next generation of girls. I want the opportunities to be better than they were before because of our team. (2) That I will be remembered for my love of this game and the people who played it. I do love the women on the LPGA and the Teaching and Club Professional Division. That’s important to me. (3) Finally, that I was willing to take chances and to make mistakes as I changed the direction of the LPGA Tour. There is zero chance of having my first legacy come true if I am not willing to take chances. I have had to be willing to lose my job if I wanted to make a mark. If my job as Commissioner lasts another day or another five years, that’s OK because our team has had the guts to try to make the LPGA better.

48 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

BY ELISA GAUDET

Drew Bledsoe at U.S. Open Alive & Well in Washington

Having the US Open on the west coast has a distinct environment as with any location. Chambers Bay being outside Seattle attracts a large Washington state fan base as well as patrons from the west coast in general.

This is evident from the numerous golf shirts with logos from west coast courses and affiliations, Pebble Beach, Shadow Creek, USC and the many Seattle Seahawks NFL shirts.

In his 26 years, New England Patriots’ safety and special teamer Nate Ebner has seen a lifetime of ups and downs. His father, Jeff, was fatally shot during a robbery at his Ohio business in 2008. This life-changing incident triggered an emotional roller coaster for young Nate, who immersed himself in his dad’s chosen sport of rugby and rose to elite level status.

Like his father, Nate also had a passion for football. Enrolled at Ohio State, he decided to forsake rugby and follow his dream, walking on with Jim Tressel’s Buckeyes as a junior.

With speed and toughness, Ebner became a versatile special teams’ stalwart and, not surprisingly, caught the eye of Bill Belichick. New England drafted Ebner in the 6th round of the 2012 draft. This past year, he hoisted the Super Bowl trophy and received his championship ring on June 14th.

While rugby and football came from Ebner’s dad, it was the female side of the family that triggered his love of golf.

“My mom played a lot of golf, so I started playing with her,” says Ebner, entering his fourth season with the Patriots. “My aunt’s house is at Ipswich Country Club, so I still play there a lot.”

For Ebner, golf is a break from the non-stop world of pro football. He relates, “It is definitely an

escape. Golf is a fun way to challenge myself.

When you’re in the NFL, it is football, football, football. Golf is a great way to get out there and interact with people.”

Ebner is realistic about his greatest golf moments. “If I can play nine holes without losing the ball, that’s a good day on the course. My goal is to understand why I hit a bad ball, and then make adjustments. Golf has always been a little battle for me. It’s all about mental control, and staying out of my own head.”

An Ohio boy who has travelled the world via rugby, Ebner has found a golf home in the Northeast. He states, “I really like playing at Foxborough Country Club and would love to play TPC Boston and The Golf Club of New England.

I am really impressed with the beautiful local courses in this area.”

Ebner outlines the contrast between golf and his other sports passions. “In rugby and football, you have to be tough, physical, fast, and explosive.

To play golf, you have to have other skills. Golf is a mental stressor, but I like it. You have to focus and get away from the physical nature of sports.”

That physical nature is prevalent in Ebner’s fulltime job, and there is no time for self-congratulations. He relates, “I don’t believe that you are

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 49

TINKERS NEST

Golf Balls for Every Game

By ED TRAVIS

The ball is the only piece of our equipment used on every shot so it’s important to play a ball that fits your game. Manufacturers more than ever, are making use of hi-tech materials and fresh design ideas matched with advanced manufacturing techniques for golf balls providing more distance, better trajectory and spin control. Choosing the proper ball starts with evaluating performance around the green, then moving back to approach shots with short and medium irons and finally to drives. Look for measurable distance and spin differences between twolayer “distance” balls and multi-layer balls to decide which is the best for you.

Bridgestone Golf

Number two in the ball business, Bridgestone has updated their popular e-series with a proprietary dimple design in a “spidering” pattern for 10 percent more dimple-surface-coverage. The pentagonal WEB dimple pattern on the e-5 (2-piece urethane cover), e-6 (3piece soft Surlyn cover with anti-side spin mantle) and e-7 (3-piece Surlyn cover also with anti-side spin mantle) added to the aerodynamics of their dual dimple gives a more penetrating ball flight and more distance. All are priced at $29 dozen.

Callaway Golf

Callaway is enjoying a significant increase in ball sales with the 65 compression Chrome Soft that, even though it has a soft feel around the green, produces low spin from the tee making a very nice combination. This 3-piece ball has a urethane cover to complete the package of distance and control. Retail price is $38 dozen.

Snell

Dean Snell, longtime in charge of golf balls for TaylorMade Golf, has his own company producing two new models, the 2-piece Get Sum for average golfers with a low compression core and Surlyn cover and the My Tour Ball with 3-piece construction, urethane cover and also a low compression core. Get Sum is $21 dozen and My Tour Ball is $32 dozen on SnellGolf.com.

50 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

TINKERS NEST

Srixon

The fourth generation of the Z-Star ball has a modified dimple pattern for less aerodynamic drag and what they call SpinSkin that increases friction with the club. It also has a lower compression for more greenside spin and touch. $45 dozen with white and yellow colors available.

TaylorMade Golf

TMaG with the Project (a) ball is targeting mid-handicappers who need more approach-shot spin with the use of a cast urethane cover (like many tour balls) but which also gives low driver spin for distance.

This 86-compression 3-piece ball has their SoftTech formula cover with better durability and sells for $32 dozen.

Titleist

The Pro V1/V1x, even at $48 dozen are still the most popular ball and this year both received a new softer feeling urethane cover boosting spin on scoring shots without changing performance off the tee.

The Pro V1 has a softer feel, slightly more long game spin and flatter trajectory for a shallower descent while the Pro V1x is somewhat firmer feeling, with lower long game spin and higher launch.

Volvik

The S4 is a premium category 4-piece ball with the urethane cover colored with a white base combined with pearlescent blue giving it better visibility. At 105-compression with a proprietary core formulation made with the metal bismuth, the S4 is meant specifically for players with higher swing speeds. $45 dozen at Volvik.com.

Wilson Staff

Lower compression golf balls are popular and Wilson’s Duo model is an industry low of 29-compression and also sells at an attractive price of $20 dozen. This is a pure distance ball with high launch characteristics ideal for players with slower swing speeds who are also looking for the softer feel benefits of lower compression.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 51

TINKERS NEST

Wedges: It’s All About Scoring!

By ED TRAVIS

The array of wedges on the market all have one purpose, hitting the ball close to the pin for a one putt or two at worst. In other words, scoring shots. Good golfers (and those who want to be good) work at lot on this part of their games and are sure to be carrying wedges aimed at maximizing scoring shot results.

To start you on the road to consistently “hitting it close” and lower scores here some of this year’s wedges we like and a piece of advice we have repeated many times. The best place to start the selection process is to talk with a PGA Professional who can advise you on the correct loft, lie and bounce for wedges that match your swing and the conditions you most often play.

Ben Hogan Golf

A revival of the iconic Ben Hogan brand led clubmaker Terry Koehler of Eidolon Golf to make use of his V-sole design in the Ben Hogan TK15 line with loft specific weighting and milled faces. Retail is $150 each.

Bettinardi Golf

You can now think of wedges as well as putters when you hear the name Bettinardi. The new H2 series models ($180 nickel finish, $195 bronze) have milled grooves and a C-grind sole to allow the leading edge slightly longer contact with the ground at impact.

Bridgestone Golf

This year saw a complete redesign of the wedge line from Bridgestone with the new tear drop-shaped J15 models ($119) a new sole design and an aggressive groove cross-section for more and consistent spin.

Callaway Golf

Designer Roger Cleveland’s new Mack Daddy PM-Grind wedges ($130) had lots of input from Phil Mickelson for those really tough short shots from nasty lies. Almost 40 percent more groove area and available in lofts from 56 to 64 degrees.

52 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

TINKERS NEST

Cleveland Golf

The 588 RTX 2.0 Tour wedges ($130) have a choice of two finishes, 10 lofts (46 to 64 degrees) and three sole bounce designs. They use Cleveland’s Rotex face with deeper RTX grooves and micro-milling for added roughness.

Fourteen Golf

Fourteen’s LE-10 has trapezoidal-shaped grooves, a slightly rounded leading edge and Fourteen’s “reverse muscle-back” design for more stability from sand and grass. Retail is $160 each.

Mizuno Golf

Everyone likes the looks of the MP-T5 wedges ($130) that Luke Donald helped Mizuno develop. The teardrop profile with Quad Cut grooves line has 25 combinations of loft and bounce with a choice of five sole grinds.

PING Golf

Ping says the new Glide wedges are, “Our best wedge hands down.” Lots of nice features (even offering a longer grip to facilitate gripping down for more trajectory control) with a choice of three sole widths and lofts from 47 to 60 degrees at a retail of $130.

Renegar Golf

Renegar RxF Tour Proto wedges are made with a multi-step forging process and soles have a patented contour with five separate bounce surfaces. There is also a choice of four head shapes. Retail price is $185.

TaylorMade Golf

The latest from TMaG is the Tour Preferred EF wedge line designed by Clay Long featuring a proprietary super thin electroformed nickel cobalt face with the option of two sole shapes. Both retail for $160.

Wilson Golf

Though not strictly a new release the FG Tour TC Wedges bear strong resemblance to the wedges made by Wilson in their glory days with a traditional sole design and a choice of two grinds for $110.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 53

TINKERS NEST

Putters, Putters and more Putters!

By ED TRAVIS

Each season produces dozens of new putter models adding to our list of choices from not just the major manufacturers but also a variety of new and lesser known companies. Length, hosel configuration, grip size and head shape are among the factors differentiating putters but it really comes down to what you like and more importantly what seems to work for you. The USGA has banned the use of belly and broomstick putters beginning next year so players presently using these extra length models will have to find a new flat stick.

Among the choices are counterbalanced models and ones of forearm length and of course those of normal length. Here a sampling of putters we have tried and like and think are worthy of your consideration.

Cleveland Golf

Not one of the companies who leap to mind when talking putters, Cleveland is producing a much talked about model the TFI (True Feel Innovation) Smart Square with a milled, copper-infused face cap over a copolymer insert meaning the feel is very soft. The body is low density aluminum with two distinctive features, a stabilizing wing mounted at the rear for higher twisting resistance and the top alignment aid made of two squares. TFI Smart Square retails for $200.

Cure Putters

Cure makes six different models – all using their high MOI heel and toe weighting system that allows for over 200 grams of added weighted split between the two weight positions. The lie is also adjustable between 62 and 80 degrees but one feature we especially like is the triangular alignment visual of the ball and the discs at the heel and toe invented by former PGA TOUR Commissioner, Deane Beman.

Prices range from $200 to $300.

Odyssey Golf

Callaway’s putter division is looking to hit it big with the Odyssey Works Big T Putter models which combine the Versa and Marxman alignment systems in one head making a big “T” behind the ball.

There’s also the popular Fusion RX insert in each of the four head shapes—classic #5, Big T blade, V-Line and V-Line CS—three mallets and one blade. Each is priced at $180.

54 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

TINKERS NEST

PING

Industry leader PING has the new Cadence TR line (starting at $200) this year developed from information from the iPing fitting app with a regular weight aluminum insert for quick stroke tempos and a heavier stainless insert for slower tempos. Both have the True Roll variable depth grooves for consistent ball speeds across the face. A variety of head shapes are available including the Anser, B65, Ketsch and Rustler. All Cadence TR models have a custom-order counter-balanced version with a 50g weight in the shaft and a 17-inch grip.

SeeMore Putter

SeeMore makes putters with an alignment system consisting of two white lines and a red dot on the top edge of the putter head so that when the putter face is correctly on the target line the hosel covers the red dot. Their newest is the Giant FGP that’s 2.5 times larger than the standard FGP model. This makes the Giant easier to square up to the intended line and with a higher resistance to twisting it is more stable.

The Giant FGP sells for $250.

Sik Golf

Sik Golf patent Descending Loft Technology is used in their four planar putter-face. Each plane descends in loft by 1° thereby neutralizing the golfers’ inability to maintain a consistent shaft position at impact.

The result is an optimal ball launch which results in less hop and spin: DLT allows the ball to achieve true roll faster than any putter on Tour. All Sik putters can be fully customized to meet your needs. Their mission is to make you a better putter, not just sell you one.

Wilson Staff

Wilson’s Infinite series carries names associated with Chicago, the company’s home town, such as Windy City, Michigan Ave and Lake Shore. The series consists of three blades and three mallets. We were especially taken with the North Side, a round mallet with the shaft attached closer to the heel and a plumber’s neck design. Each of the Infinite putters sell for $100.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 55

TINKERS NEST

BioMech AccuLock ACE Putter…

A More Natural, Efficient Putting System

by Pam Borges

Pam Borges

On the putting green during the PGA demo day I was drawn to this bizarrelooking putter. It had an elongated shaft with a blue squarish-shaped concave head with a ball-shaped hole in its center. The set-up was strange at first but once I got into the groove I was dropping ball after ball into the hole! What was the magic about this club that it outperformed all the other putters I tried? There’s more to this story than what meets the eye.

Rhode Island-based, BioMech Golf’s CEO Frank Fornari, PhD and wife, Gwen Bauer, PhD, scientists in the biotechnology field, partnered in the research and design of the AccuLock ACE putter. The idea was born when Frank and tennis pro, Lavonne Davis were discussing their putting difficulty. Frank explained, “It became apparent that there had to be a better, easier way to putt. Lavonne started tinkering with putter shaft angles which eventually led to the optimal angle incorporated in the AccuLock system. Frank explained, “We saw that putting was in conflict with the way you should make that motion. In putting, golfers line up their putts straight-on; then turn sideways to stroke. It’s unnatural…neurophysiologically incorrect to look across a target line to make any movement! In traditional putting we’ve

56 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

been taught to freeze our body and use our shoulders, arms and hands in a pendulum motion. We know that the arm muscles are prone to adrenaline and easily shake when nervous, diminishing functioning accuracy. We’re taught to use our core muscle playing golf, so why not use it in the putting stroke.”

Most putter designs focus just on mechanics. The ACE is designed from the body-out and fea-

tures the patented AccuLock Core Putting System, which converges the physiology of the human body with physics in creating an anatomically optimal putter design that triangulates the movement among hands, arms, body to promote a core-driven stroke rather than one controlled with the hands and arms. Every design aspect is based on empirical data, using thousands of people, to optimize each step of the putting process.

The ACE’s forward shaft lean allows the grip to rest against the inner surface of the leading forearm, stabilizing the hands, arms and shoulders, promoting a core-driven stroke and more open stance that improves aim and accuracy. The upright 12 degree lie angle automatically positions you for a consistent setup and stroke, further minimizing the arc in the stroke, creating a flatter, straighter putt. Shaft placement in the back of the putter head allows full view of the alignment aids. The cavity in the center of the putter head acts as a focal point for your dominant eye, aiding consistent alignment. The electric blue hue was chosen for the putter head because that color promotes relaxation and lowers heart rate.

The AccuLock ACE promotes a more natural, consistent set-up position resulting in more efficient putting. It conforms with USGA rules and is presently getting play on the PGA Tour by Heath Slocum and Bo Van Pelt.

The ACE is made of top grade milled aluminum, manufactured by T-Tech Machine and anodized by Summit Manufacturing (RI-based companies). Laser etching for the graphics is done by Advanced Laser Etching (Swansea, MA). Available for order from stores listed online. www.biomechsports.com/products/acculock_ace

TINKERS NEST

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 57

TINKERS NEST

Custom Milled Masterpieces

By Paul Mignosa

The one club you use most during your round is your putter, so why grab any putter off the shelf of the big box stores and bag it I ask? Being fitted for a putter that is made for you gives you the upper hand over your playing partner on the greens. Custom milled putters are precisely fitted to every aspect of the players putting stroke. From the grip all the way down to the stamping, the following putter brands have poured their heart and souls into these masterpieces for one common goal, to make the customer a one of a kind putter that is a reflection of the brand itself. They are also all milled right here in the USA!!

Piretti

Piretti, located out of Texas, main focus is on superior craftsmanship, using the finest materials available. Piretti’s designs are classic while maintaining a modern edge. Piretti does not offer a cast putter because they feel you get a much tighter tolerances by milling them in a CNC machine. Piretti’s custom milled putter designs feature a heavier head weight to help smooth out the putting stroke and improve accuracy. They offer several models and continue to develop new designs and configurations to help golfers improve their short game. Visit www.Piretti.com to learn more.

Bettinardi

Cure makes six different models – all using their high MOI heel and toe weighting system that allows for over 200 grams of added weighted split between the two weight positions. The lie is also adjustable between 62 and 80 degrees but one feature we especially like is the triangular alignment visual of the ball and the discs at the heel and toe invented by former PGA TOUR Commissioner, Deane Beman. Prices range from $200 to $300.

Low Tide Putters

Low Tide Putters are driven by and focus deeply on craftsmanship and design and offer three models to start your customization process from: The FIN, Whale Tale and Rip Curl. The FIN appeals to the golfer that prefers the look of a blade, with the confidence of a wider head shape. The Whale Tale is a mallet style putter designed with high MOI. The Rip Curl is a traditional blade style putter with a twist; simple flowing lines make this an easy putter to align to the target. Low Tide is also pleased to announce the release of the limited edition FLOW. They will only be making 26 of these gems and once they sell out, they are giving one lucky person their money back!

Low Tide Putters offer you a truly custom experience when it comes to your flat stick. Roll with them today! www.LowTidePutters.com 58 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Swingclick improves the CONSISTENCY, TIMING, RHYTHM, and TEMPO of your golf swing.

$29.99

Order on Amazon.com (Search Swingclick)

3 clicks to a smoother swing

The No-Brainer Swing Trainer

䘀⸀䤀⸀吀⸀ ⠀䘀攀攀氀 䤀洀瀀愀挀琀 吀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最礀⤀ 䘀愀挀攀 䈀攀琀琀椀渀愀爀搀椀 瀀爀漀瀀爀椀攀琀愀爀礀 洀椀氀氀椀渀最 琀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最礀 琀栀愀琀 攀氀椀洀椀渀愀琀攀猀 渀攀攀搀 昀漀爀 椀渀猀攀爀琀猀 㔀㔀─ 漀昀 洀愀琀攀爀椀愀氀 椀猀 爀攀洀漀瘀攀搀 搀椀爀攀挀琀氀礀 昀爀漀洀 瀀甀琀琀攀爀 昀愀挀攀Ⰰ 挀爀攀愀琀椀渀最 琀栀攀 猀漀昀琀攀猀琀 昀攀攀氀 䜀漀漀搀 昀漀爀 瀀氀愀礀攀爀猀 眀椀琀栀 愀渀 愀最最爀攀猀猀椀瘀攀 瀀甀琀琀椀渀最 猀琀礀氀攀

匀甀瀀攀爀 䘀氀礀ⴀ䴀椀氀氀 䄀最最爀攀猀猀椀瘀攀 䈀攀琀琀椀渀愀爀搀椀 洀椀氀氀椀渀最 琀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最礀 倀爀漀搀甀挀攀猀 愀 洀甀琀攀搀Ⰰ 礀攀琀 挀爀椀猀瀀 昀攀攀氀 䜀漀漀搀 昀漀爀 瀀氀愀礀攀爀猀 氀漀漀欀椀渀最 昀漀爀 愀 爀攀猀瀀漀渀猀椀瘀攀 昀攀攀氀

䠀漀渀攀礀䌀漀洀戀 倀愀琀攀渀琀攀搀 䈀攀琀琀椀渀愀爀搀椀 洀椀氀氀椀渀最 琀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最礀 倀爀漀搀甀挀攀猀 愀 昀椀爀洀攀爀 昀攀攀氀 䜀漀漀搀 昀漀爀 猀瀀攀攀搀 挀漀渀猀挀椀漀甀猀 瀀氀愀礀攀爀猀

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 59

Scoring Equipment in Stock Trade up to new wedges and putter today!

• Top 100 Club Fitter – Open Year Round • 5 Full Flight Fitting Bays with Newest Launch Monitor Technology • Private and Group Instruction

• Multiple Winner – Top 100 Pro Shop • Trade-Ins Enthusiastically Accepted • Full Calendar of Demo and Expo Days • One Stop Tournament Shopping • Great 9 Hole Course Located Right at Joe & Leigh’s Golf Shop • Only $25.00 to Walk 9 Holes • Try and Buy and The Only Golf Shop in New England with a 9 Hole Course

www.joeandleighs.com | 508-238-2320 68 Prospect St. South Easton, MA

Enter Promo Code NEGMFREE Shipping in the USA. | 60 60 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015 For Complimentary June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com

INTERVIEW | BY NEGM STAFF

There’s nothing like it on Cape Cod.

An interview with Jane Frost- LPGA/PGA Member and owner of the Jane Frost Golf Performance Center. The Performance Center is an 1100 square foot indoor two bay hitting and club fitting state of the art facility. While standing inside, the golf ball can be hit onto the expansive Sandwich Hollows Practice area. In severe weather, the hitting bay doors can be closed and a simulator can be used inside the heated facility. On days when the weather is pleasant, the grass teeing area will be used. Jane has recently been chosen as part of the inaugural Golf Channel Academy that is a network of Top Teaching professionals from around the country.

NEGM- Jane you’ve been a teaching icon on the Cape Cod for over 20 years. You’ve recently expanded and in the process of having a performance studio built.

Why now?

Jane Frost- Mother Nature plays a big part in our season. Having indoor options will keep the season more consistent for golfers wanting to improve. I will be able to work year round and golfers will be able to do the same.

I believe in staying current and relevant with the latest technology. I pride myself in using my eyes AND the latest equipment to help me identify improvement strategies for my clients. The Performance Center will feature Flight Scope, Foresight, K-Vest, Focus Band, SAM Putt Lab. This, along with club fitting for Titleist, Callaway, Taylor Made plus Edel putters and wedges makes this THE place to come to improve your golf game. There’s nothing like it on Cape Cod.” I am committed to grow the game by offering golf coaching programs for all skill levels and more

importantly- programs to fit every budget. This includes programs for golfers from age 2 to 92!

NEGM- Sandwich Hollows Golf Course is the home of the Jane Frost Golf Performance Center- why Sandwich Hollows?

Jane Frost- You can’t beat the location of Sandwich Hollows. Easy to access from Route 6. The practice range is large and has natural grass turf, a rare feature on the Cape. I love the town and the people of Sandwich…it’s home for me.

NEGM- You are known for award winning private instruction. You’ve recently added youth programs to the instruction palate and group classes for adults.

Jane Frost- I am excited about the youth programs and adult group lessons. There is a growing belief that we need to start kids in golf youngerhelp them fall in love with the game. These youth initiatives are fun, fast paced and engaging. Not traditional instruction at all. Fun first with golf intertwined into the learning process.

NEGM- You mentioned adult group golf lessons and club fitting.

Jane Frost- I’ve added two staff members. Bob Quirk is a PGA member and master club fitter and an excellent instructor. His experience in club fitting is unparalleled and is one of the best fitters in the country. Marion Walker is a PGA/LPGA member who has tremendous experience with youth and adults and has a passion for teaching group lessons.

For more information go to janefrost.com and see all the program offerings. Join our mailing list and like our Facebook page to keep up with all the latest news! janefrost.com

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 61

Golfit 360 ½

GOLFit 360 is now open! Come out and be part of something special.

Jeff’s unique style of teaching has allowed him to become one of the most successful teachers in the New England area, From Beginners to national tournament qualifiers he has a Method and Training Tool that will help you improve INSTANTLY. • Ladies Clinics Every Wed 5:30 to 6:30 • Beginner Clinics Every Sat 9-10 and Sunday 5-6 • Saturday Jr Clinics 10-12 • All clinics are MAX 4:1 Ratio

Contact Jeff Dantas at (774) 365-0409 326 Market St. Warren, RI 02885 | www.jeffdantasgolf.com @positionsticks

Jeff Dantas Golf

Precision Golf Works ½

Full Service Club Repair in RI & Southeastern MA Since opening our doors 16 years ago, we’ve been providing golf professionals, players and golf enthusiasts with full-service golf club repairs. Whether you’re in need of re-gripping, re-shafting, lie/loft adjustment or a custom fitting we provide the personal service customized to fit your specific playing style and technique.

We also have an extensive inventory of pre-owned golf equipment and specialize in custom component sets as well. We are open Monday through Friday from 10am-4:30pm.

Precision Golf Works, 651 Cottage St. Pawtucket, RI 02861 (401) 723-9998 | www.

Precisiongolfworks.com Precision Golf Works

Precision Golf Works

62 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

THE ROAD TO COLLEGE GOLF BEGINS HERE Fall 2015 Enroll by July 15 | Spring 2016 Early Enrollment by Sept. 15 or by Nov. 15 Juniors attend the Full Time Junior Program at the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy because they want to be the best, train with the best and be around other juniors to push them to new heights. Juniors coming through the GGGA program have amassed tremendous results including more than 170 tournament wins since 2008 and attending many of the top college golf programs in the United States, including: Duke, Georgia, Oklahoma State, Florida State, UCF and many more. Personally overseen and directed by Gary Gilchrist, a Golf Magazine and Golf Digest Top Teacher, the Full Time Junior Program is an immersive experience that prepares students for tournament play so they can thrive at the junior, collegiate and professional levels. Gary and his team will create a personal plan that helps each junior achieve their goals in training and tournament competition with the goal of playing college golf. The program is an all-day, year-long junior golf program (August thru June) — also available by Fall or Spring semester — that integrates academics, golf, fitness and mental training with personal development.

To contact us, call 866-639-9099 or visit GGGA.com

Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy is located at Mission Inn Resort, Howey-in-the-Hills, FL GaryGilchristGolfAcademy

@GGGAgolf

@gggagolf

GilchristGolf

Short Game School at Mulligans Island This unique school will cover all aspects of the short game from 40 yard pitch shots, green side bunker shots, lob or flop shots, chipping from off the fringes and of course putting. Each 2 hour class will be offered on Thursdays from 5:30 - 7:30 PM and on Saturdays from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. $100.00 per person with a 4:1 student to instructor ratio. These Short Game Schools were very popular last season so sign up now before your handicap hates you for it! What a great gift idea for Grad & Dad in your life!

To register call Mike Harbour at 401-219-0139 or online at www.mikeharbourgolf.com Mike Harbour Golf

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 63

THE AMATEUR SCENE | BY STEVE RIGGS

Junior Players to Watch in July / New England’s Finest Golfing history runs deep in New England. We take pride in the development and evolution of our young players many of whom go on to compete on the national and international professional golfing stages.

Selecting our junior players for the July issue, I can report that golf is most certainly alive, well and growing in New England. Our top players this month are making their mark on the junior golf landscape both in the NE region and beyond as you will see. I highly recommend you take in a NEPGA, MGA or AJGA event should the opportunity present itself. You will be amazed at the talent and quality of our young players.

Top Boy Junior Player

(section), Junior Championship in July.

He won the Challenge Cup’s New England Junior Ryder Cup at Ledgemont CC beating Michael VanDerlaan in a three hole playoff after the pair finished regulation tied at 72. Gillis finished 2nd in the Spinal Technology Junior Classic at Old Marsh CC, 9th at the Liberty National Juniors Invitational, Liberty National GC, Jersey City. Finally Brandon finished 3rd in the Southern Junior Championship in Bowling Green, KY.

Top Girl Junior Player

Megan then moved on to Jersey City winning the Girls Division at the Liberty National Junior Invitational by a whopping 15 shots with a 3 under par 141. She then set her sights on the LPGA Kingsmill Championship where she qualified by shooting a 3 under 68. Megan made the cut posting rounds of 72,70,68,75 /+1/285 to finish T-58th. Finally, Khang took a wire-to-wire victory at the Women’s Eastern Amateur Championship in Virginia recently posting a -4/209 total.

Brandon Gillis, Nashua, NH (2017) will be a sophomore at Nashua High School North and is NEGM’s pick for boy junior player for June.

Gillis at age 14 in 2012 competed in ten NEPGA events taking first eight times and second twice.

Fast forward to 2015 and few highlights of Brandon Gillis’ season include a win at the Junior PGA Championship Qualifier at Highfield Golf and Country Club where he shot 3 under 69 to qualify for NEPGA,

Megan Khang, Rockland, MA (2015) may have been profiled in NEGM in our earlier issues of this 2015 season, but her accomplishments are simply too hard to ignore.

Khang, 17, has continued to dominate among our junior players as her notoriety expands beyond New England. She finished 2nd in the Challenge Cup’s Dave Adamonis, Sr. Players Championship, (Open Event) shooting 70,72/142 over the Metacomet and Warwick CC venues.

64 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

AMATEUR SCENE

Other Junior Standout Picks for July Boys

Matt Hutchins, Sudbury, MA (2016) is off to a great start in 2015 after qualifying for then winning the Liberty National Junior Invitational, (US Challenge Cup), event by 3 shots. Hutchins had rounds of 73-68 for -3/141. Matt qualified for the upcoming MGA Amateur Championship finishing T-1st with four other players at Blackstone National GC in Sutton firing +1/73. The MGA Amateur Championship is set for July 13-17 at Oak Hill CC, Fitchburg Hutchins is a senior at Lincoln-Sudbury High School has signed a letter of intent to play his college golf at Chico State, 2015 Division II NCAA Golf Champions. Matt’s highlights include: 6th in the MA Division I State High

School Championship, medalist honors MA Division I North High School Sectional and an 8th at the Northeast Junior Classic (US Challenge Cup event). 2013 Medalist in 2013 at the Match Play Championship, (NEPGA Juniors).

Finally, 2012 included medalist honors in the Challenge Cup Invitational (United States Challenge Cup). Additionally Matt was medalist in 2 of his three NEPGA events.

Nicholas Cummings, Weston, MA (2018) won the Spinal Technology Junior Classic at Old Marsh CC in Wells, ME in May. Cummings had rounds of 72,74/146 to take the event by two shots over Brandon Gillis who closed with 148. A few weeks later, Nick finished T-19th at the Liberty National Junior Invitational at the Liberty National Club.

Girls

Julia Ford, Shrewsbury, MA, (2015), may only be a junior but she has signed to play college golf starting in 2016 at the University of Virginia in 2016. Ford has won the North/Central/ West Sectional, (high school), Individual Championship as a freshman and sophomore and captured the Vermont State Championship last year. Julia plays for the Shrewsbury High boys team then competes as an individual in the high school spring post season. Her 2014 competition included the Big I National Championship in West Virginia, the Doral Publix Junior and the Kathy Whitworth Invitational. Golf Week , in mid-April, listed Ford 27th among the Class of 2016 girls golfers in the U.S.

Katie Um, Portsmouth, RI, (2016), has spent her you competitive golf career finishing in the top 10 in almost every event she has played in since early 2014 including five Challenge Cup events dating back to June 2014. Also during the period at this writing, Katie has finished first in the three FCWT, (Future Collegians World Tour), event entered in 2014 and 2015 including FCWT events at Newport National, the Red Tail Golf Club and the 2014 Northeast Preseason Qualifier. She also finished 10th in the girls division of the Liberty National Junior Invitational. Finally, Katie finished third in the 2013 and 2014 RI Girls High School Championships.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 65

CVS & TRAVELERS WRAP-UP Bradley & Curran Win CVS Health Charity Classic

By Jim Hammond

17th annual CVS Health Charity Classic is held at the Rhode Island Country Club in Barrington, Rhode Island and is hosted by local pros Billy Andrade and Brad Faxon..

The tournament drew some very strong players this year including J.B. Holmes, Suzann Pettersen who has won 14 times on tour, Lexi Thompson and Jimmy Walker.. The tournament has given over $18 million dollars to local charities bringing joy to local people in need.

One of the favorites this year was the team of Steve Stricker and Bo Van Pelt who took home the trophy in 2013 and 2014. The team was off to a good start this year finishing the first round at nine under par after scoring eagles at the 8th and 12th holes. I asked Stricker why he plays so well at Rhode Island Country Club. “Well it’s a classic Donald Ross course. In those days they took the

land as it was and created a masterpiece.“ But the team of Keegan Bradley and Jon Curran broke the streak and won this year by combining for a total score of 21 under par.

Keegan is a local boy having played his golf in Hopkinton but has not fared well the last few years. He became a hot prospect after clinching the 2011 PGA Championship but the big hitter was desperately searching for another win.

He and playing partner Jon Curran receive a check for $150 thousand each as they leave the ocean state to prepare for the British Open. “It’s fun to come home and play in front of my friends and family,” said Bradley. “I haven’t won a tournament for 2 and ½ years so I will take a win any place any time.”

Bubba Watson Wins Travelers Championship for Second Time

By NEGM Staff

In Bubba style Bubba Watson once again captured the victory at this years Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell CT. As he did in 2010 when he captured his first PGA Tour win, he won in a playoff. In 2010 it was Scott Verplank and Corey Pavin who Bubba out lasted and this year it was Paul Casey he bested on the second playoff hole for the victory.

Ironically Bubba Watson in his 8th PGA Tour win has been in 6 playoffs in his career and won five. His only loss in a playoff was to Martin Kaymer at the PGA

66 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Championship in 2010. Watson became the 6th multiple winner at the Travelers, joining Billy Casper (1963, 1965, 1968, 1973), Arnold Palmer (1956, 1960), Paul Azinger (1987, 1989), Phil Mickelson (2001, 2002), Peter Jacobsen (1984, 2003) and Stewart Cink (1997, 2008).

There were more New England born players in this years Travelers than any other year.

Team New England had 7 players, including Keegan Bradley, John Curran, Jim Renner.,Brad Adamonis, JJ Henry, Peter Ulhlein and Tim Petrovic. John Curran had the best finish, T10 and earned over $147,000.

AROUND THE GAME Salem, MA Native Rob Oppenheim Wins Web.com Tour’s Air Capital Classic

WICHITA, Kan. — Rob Oppenheim from Salem, Ma won the Air Capital Classic on Sunday June 27th for his first Web.com Tour title, closing with a 6-under 64 for a one-stroke victory over Andy Winings.

The 35-year-old Oppenheim finished at 13-under 267 at Crestview Country Club. He made a 25-foot eagle putt on the par-5 14th and closed with four straight pars, finishing more than an hour in front of the final pairing.

“You never know out here,” Oppenheim said. “It’s a lot less pressure and definitely easier playing from where I was than being in the lead. The leaders don’t want to make mistakes and I’m just firing at pins and trying to go as low as I can.” Rob started on the Tour as a professional in 2006 with a few starts on the PGA Tour and qualified for his first Web.com event in 2007 at the Air Capital Classic.

He began the round six strokes behind Winings. “It was pretty

much put my head down and go,” Oppenheim said. “I did the best job, maybe of my career, of being focused and trying to make birdies not look at the leader board. I thintk I fall too much into looking at the board and where I finish. Sometimes it doesn’t help.”

Making his 129th tour start, Oppenheim earned $108,000 to jump from 70th to 13th on the money list with $146,227.

Winings bogeyed the final hole for a 71.

“I played well,” Winings said. “You’re always happy with second place but it kind of stinks when you have a chance to win and you don’t pull it off.”

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 67

AROUND THE GAME Hunter Stewart Wins 54th Northeast Amateur

By NEGM Staff

East Providence RI – Wannamoisett Country Club – Hunter Stewart from Lexington, KY the 2015 First Team All- American from Vanderbilt University has won the 54th Northeast Amateur.

Stewart began the day tied for the lead and finished with a 65, four shots over Kyle Jones from

Baylor. The first-team All-American at Vanderbilt all but wrapped up a spot on this year’s United States Walker Cup team with the win.

Stewart for the year has been ranked in the top 5 in the nation in amateur rankings. With what he did at Wanamoisett, he is now all but a sure thing for coach Spider Miller’s team. Miller was at Wannamoisett taking in the action to help select his squad for the match at Royal Lytham and St. Annes Golf Club in Lancashire, England, Sept.

12-13. Miller, in fact, followed Stewart for part of both the second and third rounds. Stewart would not focus on his chances, although he made it

clear the Walker Cup is his goal. It is the reason he will not turn pro until the fall.

As a Senior (2014-15) Has played in all 12 events and 37 rounds, and has a stroke average of 69.49, the lowest single-season stroke average in program history...Named SEC Player of the Year, the first time ever a Commodore has won the award, and was named to the All-SEC First Team...Also named as a first-team All-American, joining Brandt Snedeker (2003) as the only two Commodores to be selected to the team...Named to the 2015 Palmer Cup U.S. team and at end of playing career, he was ranked as the 5th-best U.S. Amateur and the 8th-best in the world according to the World Amateur Golf Rankings.

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR:

The Best Golf In New England Awards 2015

Vote at myNEGM.com/bestgolf2015

68 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

AROUND THE GAME Joe Harney Claims One-Stroke Victory at 106th Massachusetts Open Championship Held at Black Rock Country Club in Hingham, MA

Joe Harney (above) captured the 106th MGA Open Championship title, while Ben Spitz (below right) finished as Low Amateur at Black Rock Country Club.

Hingham, MA — Golf is a sport of highs and low and Joe Harney (Granite Links GC) experienced both extremes in just one week en route to capturing the 106th Massachusetts Open Championship.

Harney, who is just 23 years old, delivered a victory on Wednesday afternoon at Black Rock Country Club in front one of the largest galleries in recent memory. It marks the first MGA Championship win for Harney.

“It has to be my top moment right now,” said Harney, who earned a winner’s check of $15,000 for his efforts. “I can’t really feel anything right now so it must be the top moment. It feels great to see all that hard work pay off.”

Ben Spitz Claims Second Career Low Amateur Honors For the second time in his career and the second time in three years, Ben Spitz (George Wright GC) owns the bragging rights as The Commonwealth Cup champion. The 31-year-old Spitz was 4-over par 217 through 54 holes which represented the lowest three-round score posted by an amateur in the field.

As a result, Spitz collected The Commonwealth Cup, which is an honor he first won in 2013 at Woodland Golf Club.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 69

AROUND THE GAME Nick McLaughlin Birdies 18 To Win 51st Hornblower Memorial Tournament By One Shot University of Virginia junior Nick McLaughlin parlayed a 70-foot “no brainer” for birdie on the 4th hole with a nine foot “must have” birdie on the 18th hole to shoot an impressive one-under 68 and win the 51st Hornblower Memorial Tournament at Plymouth Country Club. His twoday total of 69-68=137 gave him a one-stroke edge over Club of New Haven member John VanDerLaan, who also shot 68 to go with his 70 but missed his nine foot birdie putt on 18.

The overnight leaders Tommy McCloskey (67), a sophomore at North Georgia’s Berry College, and Zach Zaback (68), a junior at

UConn, could not find their rhythms on the front side. McCloskey shot a five-over 39, and Zaback had six bogeys for a 40. McCloskey finished with a 77 for a 144 and a tie for ninth; Zaback finished with a 75 for a 143 and a tie for fifth. Defending champion Will Betts, who beat McLaughlin on the 18th hole last year with an improbable chip-in from off the back of the green to a downhill front pin placement, shot a pair of 72’s for a 144 and a tie for ninth.

- See more at: http://www.mynegm.com/ golf/whats-news/nick-mclaughlin-birdies-18-towin-51st-hornblower-memorial-tournament-byone-shot/#sthash.YXWfbuye.dpuf

Bill Barry, Jr. and Jack Kearney Fire 6-under par 66 on Final Day to Capture the 2015 MGA Senior Four-Ball Championship Title By Two Strokes Ben Day of New Haven Country Club capped off a remarkable charge at the Country Club of Waterbury by defeating John Flaherty of TPC River Highlands on the first playoff hole to win the 12th Russell C. Palmer Cup. Day fired rounds of 69-62-63 for an even-par total and sealed the victory with a birdie on the first playoff hole.

Conducted by the Connecticut State

70 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

Golf Association, the Russell C. Palmer Cup was a three round stroke play competition played at the Country Club of Waterbury on Monday and Tuesday, May 18th and 19th.

Named for former Executive Director of the CSGA and Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame Member, Russell C. Palmer, the event featured Connecticut’s top amateur golfers who were vying for the state’s amateur stroke play title.

AROUND THE GAME The 2015 Ouimet Marathon August 12th at Stowe Acres The largest in the U.S., the Ouimet Golf Marathon has raised $5 Million towards Ouimet Scholarships and has reached a total of 107,916 holes played! This year, the Ouimet Fund will award $1.7 Million in need based college scholarships to nearly 300 Ouimet Scholars. Since 1992, this endurance event has been a major piece of our ability to help the young people who work in the game of golf. The Golf Marathon has cumulatively raised more than $5 Million for scholarships since it’s in-

ception - a milestone achievement! We hope you can be a part of it! For more information go to Ouimet.org

Evan Genrus Wins CT 113th Amateur Championship Evan Grenus of TPC River Highlands put on a spectacular display of golf en-route to capturing the 113th Connecticut Amateur Championship, defeating Greg Reily of CC of Darien, 5 and 4. The state’s most prestigious amateur championship was conducted June 15th - 19th at Black Hall Club in Old Lyme, Conn.

Grenus, a rising sophomore at Wofford College, entered the finals of the Connecticut Amateur hoping to capture his second CSGA major championship in as

many years, having won the Connecticut Junior Amateur last year. At just eighteen years of age, Grenus played a “golf marathon” of sorts, needing 10 extra holes to win his first three matches. Even with a decisive 7 and 6 victory in his semifinal match over defending champion Zach Zaback, he had already played 112 holes in four days. With a 36-hole final standing between him and the title, no doubt his youth and past experience in match play was a key entering the day.

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 71

AROUND THE GAME 6-Year-Old Ryan McGuire Surpasses Fundraising Goal in Inspiring Effort at MGA Links to Remember His Friend Norton, MA —Six-year-old Ryan McGuire played 100 holes of golf on Wednesday in memory of his friend Danny Nickerson, who passed away in April from cancer. It was McGuire’s way of remembering his friend while raising important funds for cancer research.

The site of this important and emotional effort was MGA Links, McGuire’s home course and the headquarters for The First Tee of Massachusetts.

If you’d like to mail a check, please make it out to “Golf Fights Cancer,” add Ryan’s name to the memo, and mail it to Golf Fights Cancer, 300 Arnold Palmer Blvd, Norton, MA 02766 USA Learn more about Ryan’s Golf Marathon: http://golffightscancer.org

SUBMIT FOR FREE news, photos, videos, opinions... myNEGM.com/submit

72 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July 2015

myNEGM.com

June 2015 Vol 8 | Issue 5

Editor / Publisher

Timothy R. Branco tim@nepubinc.com

Reach Over 700,000 New England Golfers Monthly

Graphic Design & Production

Chris Hunter

CollectiveThoughtMedia.com

Administration

Mary L. Hullett

mary@nepubinc.com

Contributors Tom Gorman Tim Geary Pam Borges Bob DiCesare Kathleen Dyson David DeSmith Matt Adams Jim Hammond Ed Travis Becky Blaser Greg Sampson

John Molori Alicia Moon Alice Scott Steve Riggs Jeff Palopoli Emily Kay Jack Ross Danny Scott Leigh McKay Elisa Gaudet Matt Ward

Contributing Photographers Ken Dennis | kendennisphoto.com Rich Gagnon | Taunton, MA sales & Marketing

Greg Sampson - Manager

greg@nepubinc.com

Paul Mignosa – Asst. Manager Paul@nepubinc.com

New England Golf Monthly is published 9 times yearly by The New England Publishing Group Inc. Reproduction of the contents, images and editorial is strictly prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Neither advertiser or publisher will be held liable for errors or omissions in any content of this publication. All rights reserved.

For product marketing, distribution and/or direct mail information contact tim@nepubinc.com

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR:

The Best Golf In New England Awards 2015

Vote at myNEGM.com/bestgolf2015

July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 73

Members

Jimmy Fund Golf is a great way to have fun and suppor t Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s lifesaving mission.

ft to right): n family (le of the Rubi and Doug , ry la Hi , ad Robert, Br

A father’s passion, a family’s tribute Honor a loved one with Jimmy Fund Golf Ted Rubin passed away from Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2009.

An avid golfer, he was an icon in the local wine industry.

To honor his passion for golf and to help others facing the same disease, Ted’s family, friends, and colleagues started the annual Ted Rubin Memorial Golf Tournament with assistance from Jimmy Fund Golf staff. In five years, the tournament has become a can’t-miss food, wine, and golf event.

Most importantly, tournaments like this help countless patients by raising critical funds for groundbreaking research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Join the Rubin family and make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.

Start a golf tournament today at

JimmyFund.org/NEGM Presenting Sponsor:

Ace Sponsors:

Eagle Sponsors:

Coca-Cola

New England Golf Monthly

GET ON THE RIGHT COURSE TO FIGHT CANCER® GFGEN15063

GORMAN VS GEARY

Amateur multiple times. Both won their first pro tournaments in their fifth try. Both are the only golfers to win the Masters before the age of 23.

Woods has won six times before age 22, and Spieth has five wins and doesn’t turn 22 until July. In April, Spieth became the only player ever to register a score of 19-under par at Augusta National, while Woods won the 1997 Masters by a record 12 strokes, and the 2000 US Open by 15 strokes, enroute to 9 victories while setting 27 Tour records that same year.

Even if Spieth does win the Grand Slam, it is way too early to compare his record to the GreatestPlayer-Ever! Spieth’s victory on Father’s Day at the US Open at the Chamber of Horrors was the result of Dustin Johnson pulling the biggest choke Truly great players earn that title because they in a major since Jean van de Velde at the 1990 bring aura of invincibility to the first tee, but let’s British Open. How did that red-neck from Myrtle state the obvious, Jordan Spieth may be the best Beach three-putt from 12-feet when his playing player on the planet right now and has many partner, Jason Day, just showed him the same line Tiger Woods-like milestones on his resume at the and speed? It was a colossal choke! And the golf tender age of 21, but he will never make an imworld was ready for a Monday 18-hole playoff. pact on the game like Tiger Woods did.

After turning pro, both athletes Over the past 18 years, Tiger signed lucrative contracts with Woods has racked up 91 athletic apparel compawins against the best nies. Woods with Nike, players in the world, and Spieth with Under making it look as easy Armour. Okay is this getas walking up to an ATM ting freaky? Nike built a

by Tom Gorman machine. His career earngolf division on the back of ings exceed $109 million.

Woods that registered sales of When Jack Nicklaus won 73 times $791 million in Nike’s 2013 fiscal year. Will throughout his career, including 18 majors, the Spieth be able to do the same for Under Armour? competition were not nearly as talented or worldJordan Spieth is one of a long list of players wide based as todays PGA Tour. who started impressive golf careers at a young In fact, Woods career has been so dominant, age, but many faded quickly into obscurity. What stupendous, brilliant, impeccable and unattainever happened to Jerry Heard, Robert Gamez, able that the most universally agreeable topic by David Duval, Anthony Kim, Ty Tryon, Ricky Barnes golfers who love to dissect the game at the 19th and Bobby Clampett? hole is: “There will never be another Tiger.” Amen.

To be great you must deliver in the clutch, such Of course there will never be another Tiger. For as Tiger Woods did in the 2008 US Open at Torrey Tim Geary to dream that Jordan Spieth is on his Pine against Rocco Mediate. I don’t recall Jorway to super-duper-superstar status is bordering dan Spieth ever stepping up in any defining moon hallucination. But, then again, this would not be ment to win a golf tournament. He almost blew the first time Mr. Geary has been diagnosed with his 3-shot lead at the par-3 No. 17 at the US Open. golf feeble-mind disease. He’s the same dope that That’s not what champions are made of. Spieth admitted he’d rather win one Masters in his career won because he was lucky and Dustin Johnson than win the FedEx Cup! How dumb is that? choked! The unanswered question is this: Is the Because Jordan Spieth has won the first two young Texan hungry enough? Having luck on his majors of the year, he is the undisputed new side could assist Spieth into a full-fledged, longfigurehead in modern golf, and for the first time term golf icon, but he’s not the dominant type. the comparisons to His Holy Royal Golf Highness – We will never, ever see such a dominant player Tiger Woods - have begun. like Tiger Woods!

Spieth, 21, and Woods, 39, have airy similariTom Gorman, based on experience, knows ties including being the only two to win the US a three-putt choke when he sees one.

Is Jordan Spieth the next Tiger Woods?

76 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | July April2015 2015

GORMAN VS GEARY

This one is a gimmie for Gorman and he needs one because the only way he wins in either golf or in our debates is when I concede, which is what I am doing right now.

The question is whether Jordan Spieth will be the next Tiger Woods? No! Gorman wins.

Now let’s get to it in a reasonable manner and discuss this like adults instead of third graders and we’ll leave Tommy on the merry go round.

There will never be another Tiger Woods, just as there will never be another Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer or Jack Nicklaus. There will also never be another Jordan Spieth. Now, what we must ask ourselves is whether or not Spieth can lend as again and it’s unfair to try and burden Spia dramatic impact on the game of golf as eth with those kinds of expectations.

Woods did when he first burst on the scene?

But that’s what we do. We seldom apDoubt it, even if he wins another 12 mapreciate the athlete for what they are. We jors and ties Woods at 14. always have to compare them to someTiger changed the landscape of golf. body else.

Being multi-ethnic (Caucasian, African, I would say that Spieth will never be Asian, Native American) he apas spectacular as Woods. He pealed to a wide specwill not destroy fields. He trum of people, many will not cause golf course who always regarded architects to change golf as strictly the dothe way they design main of the upper courses. crust WASP culture.

What he will do is

by Tim Geary Spieth is not going game plan the way Nickto do that, but he does laus did and attack the way Nick have a chance to be the next Faldo did. He will be relentless. He’ll always big thing in the game, along with reigning be there, in the hunt. number one, Rory McIlroy.

Which means that he’s going to win a With his win at the U.S. Open at Chamlot and he’s also going to finish second and bers Bay, Spieth became the youngest U.S. third a lot too.

Open champion since Bobby Jones in 1923.

Spieth is just as tough as Woods was He also became the youngest player to win mentally (something that Tiger has evidently two majors in a single year since Gene Saralost). That’s his strength. He is never going to zen in 1922. be the biggest bomber or the best ball striker And he’s only the sixth player to win both or putter. But he WILL be the best player bethe Masters and U.S. Open in history. The last cause all facets of his game are solid. He was..... wait for it.... Tiger, in 2002. knows how to play. He knows when to take So from a strictly golf related point of a chance and when to take his medicine. view, I’d say that Jordan has gotten off to And while he plays with emotion, he is not a great start in his quest to try and match controlled by it.

Woods’ historic record.

To say that Spieth will be the next Tiger We tend to forget, because we always is like saying that Mickey Mantle would beput it side by side with Nicklaus’ record, just come the next Joe DiMaggio. how great Tiger was.

Never happened, but being Mickey Nobody in history, including the Bear, Mantle turned out to be pretty good too. ever dominated golf the way Tiger did for Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. just over a decade. It would be unreasonNobody else has ever wanted to be him. able to think that anyone could do that

Is Jordan Spieth the next Tiger Woods?

April July 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 77

Play Greatness Early for $49

Early bird discount Monday – Thursday before 9am

Northbridge, MA • 508.234-0400 www.shiningrock.com

Spectacular course layout…

Exceptional Clubhouse design…

Overwhelmingly unique experience.

CONTACT US AT:

Now Booking • Golf Outings • Corporate Events

• Weddings • Banquets

978-772-3330 www.ShakerHills.com

HYANNIS GOLF COURSE | 508.362.2606 Iyannough Rd. Rte. 132 Hyannis, MA

CapeCod SummerGolf at it’s Finest Book Tee Times at www.BarnstableGolf.com

OLDE BARNSTABLE GOLF COURSE | 508.420.1141 1460 Rte. 149 Marstons, MA