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FROM THE EDITOR
Have Bag Will Travel Golf unlike any other sport in the world is a journey and for most golfers playing around the globe is the greatest part of the game. While most other sports and games are played on the same playing field, golf is certainly not. Every golf course is different and uniquely designed with nuances that set it apart from others. You could say that nothing is a constant in the game of golf except the game itself. Every course, every region where you play and every shot is a new test in your game. Golf travel has become one of the largest industries in the world. Golf travelers take more trips than almost any other demographic, spend more, stay longer and enjoy more amenities along the way. It has become a rite of the game to venture out and discover new places to play and new regions to visit. For golfers a golf trip is an opportunity to unwind, play and enjoy dedicated time outdoors on a course. Great times, great memories with great friends playing a great game, it says it all. This issue is dedicated to Summer/ Fall golf planning throughout the globe. It’s a peak into some of our favorite golf destinations that offer some of the greatest golf in the world. From Ireland to Scotland across the pond to the Eastern Maritimes of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island to Maine and Northern New England. You will find great summer golf on Cape Cod & the Islands to Ocean City Maryland and the Mid Atlantic Eastern Shores. Golf in Southwest, Las Vegas, Mesquite and even some of the best resorts in the Southeast and Florida for your future golf trip planning. Summer is here and golf is finally back again, after a long drawn out winter. Now is the time to plan your summer escape, your fall road trip and maybe even that trip of a lifetime to Ireland and Scotland that is on that got to do bucket list. Whether it’s a night or two on the Cape or the Vineyard or a trek to northern New England, Prince Edward Island or beyond every journey starts with the first step. Enjoy this issue and get out and enjoy the game no matter where you venture off to.
Can You Say Road Trip?
Timothy R. Branco Editor/ Publisher
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NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY
GOLF FASHION WEEKLY 16
Alicia Moon | Antigua Interview
18
Brittany Rayburn | Shorts & Skorts
GOLF COURSE LIVING 10
10
Katharine Dyson / The Northeast
GOLF FASHION WEEKLY 15
Good Looks on The Course / Summer Fun
2015 GOLF TRAVEL PLANNER 22
NEGM Staff / Great Getaways
COURSE VIEWS 36
CONTENTS
22 60
David DeSmith / The Little Muni That Could
GIFT GUIDES 46
Fore Fathers Day Gift Ideas
MOLORI UNPLUGGED 52
John Molori / On Tim Wakefield
CELEBRITY GOLFER 58
Leigh McKay / on Jane Blalock
TINKER’S NEST 60
Ed Travis / Drivers
64
Paul Mignosa / Shafts
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GOLF COURSE LIVING
Living and Playing along the Northeast Coast
From Maine’s crenulated shores of slender “land” fingers that jut out into the Atlantic to the sculptural drifting dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore and off shore islands, the Northeast’s coast is a coveted place to live. For golfers it’s even better thanks to moderating ocean waters in areas like Cape Cod and Rhode Island where you can play almost all year round. For those who want their fairways and the sea nearby, check out these golf communities. MAINE
Highland Green, Topsham Living | Set on more than 650 acres, Highland Green is set amidst a rich ecological environment where residents enjoy an extensive network of hiking trails, an Ecology Center, a variety of on-site activities and the proximity of the Androscoggin River, Merrymeeting Bay and the ocean. Classic New England-style homes range from 1,400 to more than 3,000 square feet and feature two bedrooms, a finished lower level for guest rooms or hobby areas, a lofted second floor, study, fireplaces, crown molding, sunrooms and screened porches. Prices are in the $300,000s to $400,000s.
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Playing A highly rated “shotmaker’s” course, this tree-lined nine-hole track fits comfortably into the rugged terrain of Midcoast Maine where rock outcroppings and ridgelines have been incorporated into the plan. Doglegs,
GOLF COURSE LIVING // BY KATHERINE DYSON carries over native areas, elevations, roll-up greens and water hazards create interest and challenge. Facilities include a lodge-style clubhouse, putting green and golf shop. Off Track | A third of Highland’s 635 acres is preserved as conservation land. Residents can walk the trails and canoe and kayak the waterways that wind through the property. Nearby Portland and the college town of Brunswick, offer a variety of cultural and educational opportunities.
Dunegrass, Old Orchard Beach Living | Dunegrass set on the south coast of Maine 30 minutes from Portland is biking distance to beautiful Old Orchard Beach. Nestled into the pines, homes overlook the rolling Dunegrass Golf Course fairways. Sandy Meadows at Dunegrass offers seven home styles ranging from a two-bedroom bungalow with sunroom and porch to a four-bedroom home. Recent listings included a 2,000 square foot three bedroom home for $400,000 and a two bedroom, two-bath condo at $199,000. Playing | Dunegrass Golf Course, a Dan Maples-designed track, occupies more than 300 acres of forests and sandy dunes punctuated by hills, rock formations and creeks. At 6,644 yards, with four sets of tees and wide landing areas, this course is a good play for all levels. Off track | Bike to the beach, walk the many nature trails, go whale watching, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and birding. Visit lighthouses and attend pro baseball and hockey games.
MASSACHUSETTS The Bay Club at Mattapoisett Living | The private Bay Club at Mattapoisett, located on 625 acres near Buzzards Bay on the South Shore is one of just two Certified Audubon Silver Sanctuary golf communities in the state. A
third of its land is dedicated open space while handsome New England-style residences are in six villages. Residents enjoy a variety of activities including cooking demos from celebrity chefs and classes in their 10,000 square foot Sports and Activities Center. Lots are priced from $187,000 to $395,000 while homes start around $550,000. Playing | Designed by Brad Faxon and Brad Booth, Bay Club fairways are defined by tall stands of trees. Playing more than 7,000 yards from the tips, with six sets of tees, the course is designed for all levels of players. Well maintained with bent grass fairways and greens, plenty of well-positioned bunkers and waving native grasses, this is a track you will want to play again and again. There is a 10-acre golf practice area as well as an indoor winter practice facility. Off Track | The Bay Club is just minutes from the rolling dunes and great seafood restaurants of the Cape, along with other Cape courses like Bayberry Hills, Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds and historic Highland Links in Truro. Water-oriented pleasures such as yachting, whale watching, fishing and beaches are all nearby. Farm Neck Golf Club and Estates, Martha’s Vineyard Living | Farm Neck Golf Club and Farm Neck Estates on Martha’s Vineyard, a 20-mile long island in the Atlantic is but a short ferry ride from Cape Cod. Primarily known as an affluent summer colony, Farm Neck Estates is a neighborhood of beautifully situated residences in the historic town of Oak Bluffs. The Estates border a treasured Vineyard golf course favored by U.S. presidents and golfers of all skill levels. Playing | Set on a peninsula (or “neck”) of rolling farmland overlooking Nantucket Sound with views of the Sengekontacket Pond and beaches, Farm Neck was established as a semi private club in 1979 and is open to the public from April until De-
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 11
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in local Cape restaurants and clam shacks, go whale watching or take a dunes tour. Hike miles of trails, charter a boat and go deep-sea fishing or just lie back with a cool drink and enjoy the views of the sea. The Pinehills, Plymouth Living | Situated in the world’s third largest pine ecosystem,out of 3,174 acres, 2,200 acres
cember. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish, Bill Robinsons and Patrick Mulligan, this is a classic beauty running through woodlands and salt marshes and open meadows. Off Track | If you like the outdoors, biking, kayaking, sailing, beach combing, this is a great choice. Visit the lighthouses, go on a whale watching trip and bike along the winding paths. And be sure to catch the sunsets on Menemsha Beach. New Seabury, Mashpee Living | On Cape Cod facing Martha’s Vineyard, New Seabury affords its affluent residents a comfortably low key but luxurious lifestyle with golf on two fine golf courses, Ocean and Dunes, tennis courts, a beach and pool club, fitness center, marina and miles of white sand beach. This
is a large community on about 2,000 acres with more than 1,300 homes clustered in 13 neighborhoods with a wide selection of styles and prices from fractional ownerships to multi million dollar estate homes with beach rights. Playing | The Country Club at New Seabury, a private club, has two acclaimed golf courses, The Ocean Course designed by William Mitchell revealing spectacular views of Nantucket Sound and Martha’s Vineyard. Opening in 1962, it has been called, “The Pebble Beach of the East.” Ocean has some magnificent tests like hole #4 where you’re hitting from a tee tucked behind tall marsh grasses with a long carry over a salt pond. The Dunes Course redesigned by M. Armstrong and has also received rave reviews. Off Course | Indulge in some great seafood
in The Pinehills have been preserved as natural and recreational open space. Named “Best Master Planned Community in the Nation” (2003 National Association of Homebuilders), Pinehills is home to about 1,800 families. who live in small organic neighborhoods that conserve open space, trees and wildlife habitats. Architectural styles include townhomes, cottages, custom single-famiy homes, luxury apartments and grand estates. Savored views include Great Island Pond, golf fairways and Plymouth Bay. Next door Old Sandwich Golf Club Homes in an exclusive gated enclave, border the fairways of a stunning private track.
Playing | Located on the Pinehills land are two no-slouch courses open to the public, one designed by Rees Jones, the other by Jack Nicklaus rated in the Top Ten Courses you can Play by GolfWeek. Courses ride up and down rolling hills punctuated by dramatic, glacially carved kettles and kames. The Old Sandwich
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 13
RETIREMENT INVESTING IS LIKE PLAYING GOLF The closer you are… the more accurate you must be.
Golf Club, a Coore & Crenshaw design, ranked 28th in the U.S. and 68th in the world, is a private club located in an historic area along the oldest unpaved continuously operated road in the United States -Old Sandwich Road. Off Track | Crave a latté or just want to get in some retail therapy, then head to the Village Green where there are more than two dozen shops, restaurants and services. Also find 10 miles of walking trails, lovely beaches and a number of historic museums like Plimoth Plantation and the replica of Mayflower II.
RHODE ISLAND The Carnegie Abbey Club, Portsmouth Living | The 400 acre Carnegie Abbey Club celebrates grand living within view of Narragansett Bay. Close to Newport with its extraordinary yachts and estates once the summer pads of America’s first families like the Vanderbilts and the Astors, this is the place where “Cottage”
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is an understatement —where gilded mansions like The Breakers and Miramar were once called “cottages.” Playing | The renowned British architect, Donald Steel, who well understood the importance of celebrating the spectacular setting, designed the Scottish-style links course at Carnegie Abbey. Running along the water, the course flows naturally over the landscape and is characterized by sod-sided bunkers, nonstop views of the Bay, wetlands, woodlands and stonewalls. “Why mess around with something God created,” says Steel. Off Track | The sporting life here incorporates leisurely pursuits like tennis, biking, swimming, yachting and riding. There is a European Spa, game room for the younger set, fitness equipment and an Equestrian Center, an indoor ring and riding trails. The Lookout acts as the welcome area for the Club and houses the Pro Study, showers and changing rooms. Nearby explore the historic estates of Newport.
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GOLF FASHION WEEKLY | BY BY ALICIA MOON EDWARDS
From Garage Band To The Main Stage, Ron McPherson Discusses Antigua’s Evolution
Much like a backyard garage band that hit it big, Antigua Group Inc began with just one man, a sales representative, and an embroidery machine. What has since become an internationally distributed, multi-market licensing and name brand apparel company was once a modest undertaking by founder Tom Dooley, who in 1976 literally opened shop out of his own garage. In speaking with Antigua’s current president and CEO Ron McPherson, it is evident that Antigua continues to pay tribute to its heritage, grass roots values, and even the longevity of its original staff members, despite the company’s growth over the years. Ron McPherson, a former golf professional, began working with Tom Dooley in the late 70’s as Antigua’s very first employee and sales representative. 35 years later, as president and CEO of the lifestyle and sports apparel company, Ron now has the perspective to reflect upon the evolution that he has witnessed firsthand. Although golf is where Antigua owes its reputation, Ron explained in our recent interview that the company has had to expand by demand into other areas of business as well; including sports licensing, the corporate identity business, and also tennis apparel. Golf outfitting however, remains a staple industry and
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point of pride for Antigua as the company continues to grow.
Alicia Moon: What advancements do you foresee Antigua making in the future with its golf apparel business specifically? Ron McPherson: Our mission is to become
recognized as a brand worldwide for its quality, technological innovations, and sports heritage. Antigua’s niche, since the beginning, has been in providing customized apparel, purchased at the green grass level. In golf, we provide facilities and tournaments with apparel with their logo. In the next evolution for Antigua our goal is to not just provide those services, but to sell
GOLF FASHION WEEKLY our products as branded apparel too. Consumers are starting to view us as branded apparel, as opposed to just logo apparel in golf shops.
AM: Speaking of technological innovations, Antigua mostly uses its own “Desert Dry” fabric technology in its golf apparel, correct? RM: Yes, that’s actually our trademark. We have 2 trade-names: Desert Dry and Desert Dry Extra Light. We were one of the first companies back in the early 2000’s to convert the majority of its product into moisture wicking, synthetic fabric as opposed to cotton, which at that time, 15 years ago, dominated the market. And of course our sales people looked at us like we had four heads, but certainly it was the right thing to do.
AM: I’m sure that being in the Arizona heat gave some extra motivation to create lighter, cooler fabrics as well. How do you go about testing your new fabrics? RM: Well, we’re able to test here in the hot
climates certainly, but we also use some testing services through a group in Florida who actually tests our products on consumers and then give us the feedback. Down there it’s obviously hot and humid, so by testing in these areas we then feel very positive and confident when we put a product out.
AM: As a consumer brand, what Antigua product would you say sells the most? RM: You know, Antigua started out as a golf
polo shirt company, so people still know us for that. But as the company has evolved over the past 35 years, outerwear actually brings in 35% of our revenue now, so we’ve really worked hard on that too. Although we live in Arizona, we have to realize that the rest of the world actually has weather when we don’t. So even though we’re known for our polos, we have become very diverse in our assortment.
change”. He was the one that said, “Bright colors are going to be in vogue for at least a three year period. We’ve gotta be there..” So we’ve listened to Sean and his team from the standpoint of staying on trend.
AM: For you personally, what has been the highlight of your career working with Antigua? RM: My aspirations when I was younger was to be a professional golfer and to play. When that wasn’t going to happen, to have a different angle to stay around the game was very cool. Then to expand into these other areas, that has been a highlight for me. As well as all the great people we have in the company. Antigua is where it is because of its people. We have people already celebrating 25, 28, and 30 years with the company. So one of the most gratifying things about Antigua is all the great people we’ve been fortunate to work with. As for where the name Antigua comes from, perhaps only Tom Dooley could answer that one. After vacationing on the island of Antigua in 1979, Tom renamed his company from Eagle Golf to Antigua due to personal inspiration. Ron McPherson’s emphasis on Antigua as a green grass company first and foremost, honors the company’s original vision and commitment to design and customize inspired apparel that stays on trend and focuses on consumer demands. Antigua’s golf, sports, and lifestyle apparel can be purchased through a variety of club and sports retailers, directly for corporate customization, or online with eCommerce and antigua.com.
AM: Is there a certain look you think Antigua goes for? RM: Yes. The head of our team is a man
called Sean Greg. Sean just celebrated 10yrs with Antigua. He previously worked for a number of big brands and had been in the industry a long time, so we were fortunate to connect with him. His goal and mantra on his wall is “Stay on trend”. This is what our design team tries to do. The key for us is to find out what those trends are, and then to apply those trends to our specific channels of distribution. Sean was the one that brought the synthetic fabrics in and said, “We need to make this
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 17
GOLF FASHION WEEKLY | BY BRITTANY RAYBURN
Look Your Best on the Greens: Shorts & Skorts Summer weather has officially arrived; therefore it is time to freshen up your closets with this year’s hottest shorts and skorts! Golf Fashion Weekly has compiled the most stylish, fashionable and comfortable options on the golf market. Check out some of our favorites for men and ladies here: Nike
Nike’s Short Fairway Drive Short will give you the ultimate comfort! This skort will help keep you dry and comfortable and allow you to move freely on the course. The Dri-FIT fabric has a pleated hem and an elastic waist to create a snug and comfortable fit that you can easily tuck shirts into. The skort includes separate compression shorts that have a lined gusset for comfort, support and full coverage. The back of the skort has pockets that will help to store your essential items.
Zero Restriction
Zero Restriction’s brand new skort is the Palmer Skort for ladies. The skort features polyester knit waistband – a cool, new, incredibly comfortable feature! The Palmer Skort is also replete with four pockets, including a pocket at the back waistband with a zip closure – and an undershort.
Fairway & Greene
Fairway & Greene’s new Anna Skort and Piper Skort are both part of the brand new ‘Make Me Blush’ Collection. The Piper Skort is a mesh knit that has a fun print, side zip closure as well as a front slit for extra ease. The skort also has front and back pockets and a lightweight knit undershort. The
Catherine Wingate
Anna Skort is a solid woven skort that features side zip closure, front and back pockets as well as a lightweight woven undershoot. Fairway & Greene focuses on making their skorts the most comfortable, breathable, moisture wicking and perfectly tailored.
Catherine Wingate’s Sporty Chic Skort is available in both black and white. The skort features built in shorts that have pockets in the back with elegant light pink detail. These skorts are versatile and perfect for any occasion. The skorts are created out of a 94% polyester and 6% spandex that is comfortable as well as machine washable.
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GOLF FASHION WEEKLY
Chase 54
Chase 54’s shorts are great for working hard and playing hard as well. Chase 54 offers a variety of different styles and colors that are created out of technical fabrics from the FUSION54 technologies. All of the shorts are easy to move in, are comfortable and have
Cobra
Cobra’s Lux Tech Golf Shorts are created with a slim fit for extreme motion power. These shorts are perfect for the game or for off of the course. The shorts feature Thermo Cool stretch tech fabric as well as advanced thermoregulation for a perfect finish. These shorts also have dryCELL designation in order to wick sweat away from the skin. To protect yourself from the sun, the shorts have a 50+ protection. The shorts are available in black, grey, navy and white.
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a mechanical stretch as well as the DryFuze moisture wicking technology. You will be cool, dry and comfortable in these shorts- not to mention, extremely fashionable! The moderate length of the shorts makes them perfect for any occasion and are versatile enough to be paired with many different style tops.
GOLF FASHION WEEKLY
Aristo 18
Aristo 18’s golf shorts are designed to the exact specifications within the company’s own factories. The shorts are created out of a hybrid-tech and luxury-tech mix of fabrics that create quality, value and performance. The shorts are created out of a mix of cotton, nylon and spandex micro-twill fabric mix that makes for a comfortable and versatile mix. Aristo 18 creates a variety of different styles of shorts with a variety of different colors. Aristo 18 has a pair of shorts for everyone, and is perfect for any occasion.
Peter Millar
Peter Millar’s slogan is “From Sport. To Work. To Weekend” is ideal when talking about their Salem High Drape Performance shorts. These shorts are high performance and are created out of a soft drape fabric that offer maximum mobility as well as a moisture wicking finish. The shorts are created out of polyester and have a 9.25” inseam. The Salem High Drape Shorts are available in fresh seasonal colors and our traditional classic colors, making sure you’ll be polished and ready for your next round of golf. Additionally, the shorts have a quarter-top pocket.
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Scotland on Steroids
Scotland is blessed with many famous links courses—but few can match the raw beauty and challenge presented by Machrihanish Dunes. This UK Top-100 thrill ride has beguiled and bedeviled golfers since the day it opened, while off-course, the resort’s beautifully restored historic hotels, lively pubs, and highly acclaimed restaurants offer even more reasons why every Scottish golf adventure should include Mach Dunes. Discover why Mach Dunes was named Scotland’s best resort three times in the past two years. THE ADVENTURE BEGINS AT
www.MachDunes.com
The Heartland of Golf Ireland and Scotland One Visit is only a Drop in Your Golf Bucket List By Timothy Branco
Every golfer has the dream to play the storied links of Ireland and Scotland. After a single visit it’s like having your first taste of love, it is literally unimaginable to never experience it again. Some places feel like home and always will be that way, both Ireland and Scotland are just that for golf travel. With Ireland and Scotland so close to us here in New England we have a distinct ad- vantage over many other U.S. cities. Flights are cheaper, faster and abundant on a host of carriers from northeast cities and a late day or evening departure puts you in Ireland or Scotland at dawn. If your trip is buddies golf trip, couples event or if you’re planning to attend The Open Championship then dealing with and experienced and reputable tour host is a must. Golf Vacations Ireland and Scotland offers more than golf vacations. Their services also includes travel for major golf tournaments such as the Open and the Ryder Cup, along with corporate travel, customized tours to celebrate momentous occasions. They cater to any diverse interests that you may have while on your trip from small to large groups with special itineraries for non-golfers as well.
Historic Dublin is Ireland’s capital and most populated city with nearly 1.5 million residents. There are over 450 courses in Ireland to choose from, including 1/3 of all the true seaside links courses in the world. Some popular choices include Portmarnock and The Island in Dublin, Royal County Down and Royal Portrush in the north, Old Head and Waterville in the southwest. Or follow in wolrd #1 Rory McIlroy’s
Golf in The Emerald Isle
In Ireland there are 4 distinct regions for golf trips, the Southwest, Northwest, Northern Ireland and Dublin regions. The majority of the top courses are located along Ireland’s spectacular coastline, the Wild Atlantic Way or in area surrounding Dublin City on the east coast.
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footsteps and play some of his favorites such as County Sligo in the northwest and The European Club south of Dublin. These are just some of the any top championship courses which can be found in Ireland. There is also a long list of hidden gems from Dooks to Done-
gal that await the discerning golf to discover on the emerald isle, be adventurous they are all wonderful. It is the diversity and hospitality of Ireland and its people that will capture your heart and light your soul, you will arrive feeling welcome and will leave feeling like family. There is nowhere like it in the world today and there never will be. The golf you play will be a magical experience leaving you with some unforgettable memories. It never seems to matter how well you play in Ireland, links golf is a great adventure to be enjoyed by all!
is also home to some other great courses such as Carnoustie, Gleneagles, Kingsbarns, and hidden gems such as Crail and the Torrance Courses. The Southwest region of Scotland offers some of the most spectacular seaside scenery and dramatic links lay- outs. Royal Troon, Prestwick, Turnberry, Machrie and Machrihanish Dunes, the first course to have been built on special interest land since the days of Old Tom Morris. Scotland remains high on every ones list as one of the top golf destinations in the world to visit. To see an Open at the home of golf is an experience like no other. Golf Vacations Scotland can make it all a reality and they make it simple. When planning keep in mind there are a lot of courses to play and things to see in both Ireland and Scotland. Whichever you choose for your first trip you can’t go wrong. There is little reason to rush once there so be sure to plan for
The Home of Golf Scotland
Flights from the U.S. mainland are available to Glasgow and Edinburgh airports. Scotland, whose nickname is “ The Greatest Country on Earth “ is truly a very special place to visit. The countryside of Scotland is enchanting, rolling hills and grand vistas are sprinkled with small historic villages . Golden wheat and rye fields paint the horizons , rolled hay and straw bales dotting the landscape come harvest season. The Scotts are a very proud and meticulous people, there is very little out of place even in the oldest homes and buildings. Golf in Scotland like Ireland is best known for its links style seaside courses, but the countryside also offers many top inland and parkland designs e.g. Gleneagles which hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup. There are over 500 golf courses in Scotland many of which are true links courses along the sea. Many golf trips in Scotland include a visit to the Home of Golf, St Andrews Old Course along with other regions such as the Highlands, Aberdeenshire or East Lothian in their itinerary. The St Andrews region
extra time to see the sights as well. You should plan on a minimum of 7 days for each visit to any region in both Ireland and Scotland. Special requests for itineraries should be communicated to your tour operator well ahead of time. After your first visit for golf to Ireland and or Scotland you will realize it’s a lot like Florida as there are so many courses to play and a variety of regions to visit, so coming back is a must. The secret to a great trip is simple planning, it’s what they do well at Golf Vacations Ireland and Golf Vacations Scotland. Go to their travel planner and see for yourself, the rest will be easy. www.golfvacationsireland.com www.golfvacationsscotland.com
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 23
Luggage Options For The Happy Traveler By Alicia Moon
After racking up enough air miles to re-pave a small country, one’s luggage becomes more than just a bag. Comfort and convenience turn into necessities, and carry-ons become important fashion accessories. How one chooses to outfit his or her next trip in luggage is as important as what he or she packs to wear the next day. And don’t forget the golf clubs for the ultimate vacation. Here are some of our favorite travel gear options for frequent flyers, adventurers, and day trippers alike. The Checked Bag - Pivotal
Pivotal’s soft case luggage has all the perks one could want for easy traveling. The Pivotal soft cases are designed with wheels for simple transport and a unique 360 degree rotating handle to spare any awkward handling. Furthermore, it is nearly completely collapsible for easy storage. Whether traveling as an athlete, luxury vacationer, or on business, Pivotal should be at the top of anyone’s list of luggage options. Visit http://pivotalgear.com to learn more.
The Carry Case - ClubGlove
Thinking about bringing the golf clubs? Don’t hesitate! Forget the awkwardness of hard cases, ClubGlove provides the ultimate
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sturdy, soft case designed specifically to protect your most valued possessions. Clubglove. com offers a variety of options to put your travel worries at ease. Bring your clubs along fearlessly and make time to hit the links!
The Carry On - Benrus
For the casual day-trip, Benrus has your back with some trendy, unisex back sacks. Benrus turns the standard backpack into a trendy back-sack. The bags feature fun, quality fabrics combined with leather straps that appeal as a travel friendly hybrid between the duffle bag and the shoulder tote. Try Benrus for a crafty alternative to the typical carry satchel, sold in a variety of retail stores and online.
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!
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 25
GOLF TRAVEL | BY NEGM STAFF
Stay and Play at
The Heritage House Hotel
Cape Cod is a great place for golfers, with over fifty golf courses to choose from. Stay at The Heritage House Hotel and pick the right golf package for you to make your vacation a memorable one. For you golf lovers this is a great deal that will guarantee you a tee time. The location is simply perfect, giving you access to all the amazing attractions. It is one block away from the Hyannis Inner Harbor, which offers sightseeing, sailing, fishing boats, and island ferries. When left with a rainy day go to the Main Street Galleries, local shops and even the famous JFK Museum. Through Stay and Play Cape Cod, The Heritage House Hotel offers premade golf packages for your own skill level. If you want to try something different they allow you to customize a golf package by picking adventures tailored to your liking. During your stay you can take ferry trips to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket, go on whale watching trips, get breakfast or dinner at the attached restaurant Chauncey’s, use power golf carts or even get individual or group golfing lessons. Mix and match these to your liking and have a one of a kind vacation. After spending the day on the course, come
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back to the hotel to cool off in the one of the pools, hot tub or sauna. These spacious areas are a great place for you and your family to wind down after your day of adventures. By night dine at Chauncey’s, known for their delicious homemade potato chips. Being the first solar powered hotel on the cape, you wont feel guilty taking your vacation. As they produce energy, they save energy. All off these factors are enough to make you want to stay there year round. The best part of this golf package is that you can! With packages offered year round, you are able to stay during the warm months of the summer, or you can start your spring up with a quiet vacation. This hotel is known for their accommodations and will provide phenomenal service. Visit heritagehousehotel.com to make your reservation today!
W W W . G O L F P E I . C A / U N L I M I T E D
UnlimitedGolf 1 866 GOLF-PEI
C A V E N D I S H 7 NIGHTS UNLIMITED GOLF
Golf to your heart’s content. Play as much golf as you can handle at your choice of or Choose 7 nights from one of the following accommodation partners: Sundance Cottages, Cavendish Maples, Cavendish Country Inn & Suites, Swept Away, or The Gables (Golf Villas).
Low Season Cottage
Low Season Golf Villa
549pp $699pp
$
High Season Cottage
High Season Golf Villa
799pp $899pp
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All of the world-class golf you can play, surrounded by the Island’s spectacular scenery, and hospitality you won’t soon forget. This vacation will change how you look at golf vacations. Just pick your preferred accommodations, and let Golf PEI book your unforgettable golf vacation on this exceptional Island of ours.
1 866 GOLF-PEI
Visit www.golfpei.ca/unlimited today to book your Golf PEI Ultimate Golf Getaway!
** Pricing per person based on quad occupancy. Includes 7 days of unlimited golf at the courses associated with the package. Package prices may vary depending on location, courses and arrival dates. Package based on availability and subject to applicable taxes. Package price does not include golf carts. Carts are always available at the course at $15-20/seat/round. Other courses/options may be available. Please call 1-866-GOLF-PEI for more details or to book. Due to the popularity of these packages, availability may be2015 limited| atSubscribe certain periods. at myNEGM.com June
| 27
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A Must-Do
Stay & Play Destination for this Fall or Winter in
Sunny Port St. Lucie, FL Ranked among the ‘75 Best Golf Resorts’ by Golf Digest, PGA Village - St. Lucie is the Ultimate Golf destination with 72 holes of championship golf at PGA Golf Club, masterfully laid out by design legends Tom Fazio and Pete Dye; the best in golf training and teaching at the state-of-the-art 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance; and all of the history of the PGA’s storied existence at the PGA Museum of Golf; all within one spectacular golf resort that is owned and operated by The PGA of America - professionals. The new clubhouse at PGA Golf Club will unveil later this summer a renovated 19,000 square feet of covered and air-conditioned space. The main lobby will feature the 100-year history of the PGA with museum-like displays. Phase 1 of the renovation completed earlier this year, transformed the old dining area into a high-end establishment, The Taplow Pub, named in honor of the New York City setting where Rodman Wanamaker proposed the idea to form the PGA in 1916. The pub seats over 100 with 15
televisions equip with individualized programming for each booth. Your Stay and Play package includes accommodations, golf on the Wanamaker, Ryder, Dye or St. Lucie Trail Courses, complimentary admission the PGA Museum of Golf, and all applicable taxes. For custom quotes and availability, please call 888-4396002 to speak to a customer representative or utilize our online Stay & Play Package Quote Tool at www. PGAVillage.com.
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 29
Welcome to Ocean City,
Maryland...
...the hottest vacation spot and now the newest golfing destination on the East Coast! Ocean City Golf Getaway is pleased to provide you with one stop hassle free shopping for your golfing vacation. As you review our web site you will see we have made your choices simple. Included are varieties of all inclusive service oriented packages with hotels, golf package companies, condominiums, restaurants, golf schools and courses, and entertainment. CAN THERE BE such a thing as too much of a good thing? Potential visitors to the beautiful barrier island of Ocean City, Maryland, might be asking themselves just that as they ponder the seemingly endless array of great golf courses found here. The roster includes more than 17 championship layouts, with designs from top architects including Jack Nicklaus, Pete and P.B. Dye, Arthur Hills and Dr. Michael Hurdzan. Ocean City’s superb course options include Bayside Resort Golf Club, Baywood Greens, Bear Trap Dunes, Eagle’s Landing, Glen Riddle Golf Club’s Man O’War and War Admiral layouts, Heritage Shores Club, Links at Lighthouse Sound Golf Club, Nutters Crossing Golf Club, Ocean City Golf Club, Ocean Pines
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Golf and Country Club, Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links and The Bay Club. Ocean City Golf Getaway is pleased to provide golfers with one-stop, hassle-free shopping for your golf vacation. OceanCityGolf.com simplifies your choices and offers a variety of all-inclusive service-oriented packages with hotels, golf package companies, golf schools and courses, condominiums, restaurants and entertainment. Like your best golfing buddy, Oceancitygolf.com is there whenever needed. When you’re so excited trying to decide which 36 holes to tackle on Day One that you can’t sleep, it’s there. When you’re at work, figuring out the perfect time to make your escape, it’s there.
Golf Ocean Cit y, Maryland
At OceanCityGolf.com, you can plan and book your next golf getaway to Ocean City, Maryland 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With 17 championship courses designed by the legends of the game, great golf is just the beginning. Add miles of beach and boardwalk, exciting nightlife and excellent dining, Ocean City, MD is the ultimate golf getaway. Book your golf trip today by visiting OceanCityGolf.com or call (800) 4-OC-GOLF.
2 Nights, 3 Rounds Starting: Spring / F Weekday all s$ Weekend 153 s $175
“Great Golf is Just the Beginning” Ocean City, Maryland www.OceanCityGolf.com April 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 31
GOLF TRAVEL
So you’re planning a trip to Maine and you want to play some golf between gobbling down lobsters and snapping photos of lighthouses. Or maybe you’ve decided to finally make a golf trip to Maine and you want to make sure you do it right. With nearly 140 golf courses spread out from the mountains to the sea spanning over 35,000 square miles, the task of finding the right golf course to fit your game, budget and location can seem daunting. But Maine has something, or rather someone, to solve that problem. Maine’s Golf Concierge provides a free service to golfers by matching golfers to golf courses. To get started check out the Golf Maine website at www.golfme.com where you will find up to date listings and links to over 40 of Maine’s top public access courses. There’s a map so you can search by location and courses can be searched by amenities as well. Need more detailed information? Simply e-mail the Golf Concierge at info@golfme.com and provide as much information as you can about where you will be staying, what your golf budget is, what kinds of courses match your game and how far you’re willing to drive to get there. Then let the Golf Concierge provide you with a personalized itinerary. Not sure where you’re staying or need suggestions on where to eat or other activities to enjoy in Maine? No problem. Let the Golf Concierge know what you’re looking for and there’s a good chance he can make recommendations to help create the perfect golf trip to Maine. Maine’s Golf Concierge is Peter Webber. A Maine native who plays nearly 100 rounds a year throughout the state, he can provide you with personalized information you won’t find in a brochure, website or travel guide. He knows everything related to golf from where the fastest greens are to which 19th hole has the coldest draught beer. Try out Maine’s Golf Concierge service before you plan your next trip to Maine!
Golf Maine: The Way Golf Should Be! (877) 553 - 4653 | www.golfme.com
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GolfMaine
Like Us for Opportunities to Win FREE Golf
GOLF TRAVEL
Maine Extra: Fly Fishing with Orvis If learning to fly fish or improving your casting technique seems like a daunting task, you just haven't met the right fishing instructors. Pick up a fly rod at the Orvis Manchester Fly Fishing School, situated in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, and you'll be casting like a seasoned angler in just two short days of classes. Our expert instructors help you with everything from setting up the rod, to fly selection and knots, to how to safely release your catch. Fishing classes are held in our brand-new schoolhouse directly across from the Orvis Flagship Store, on our fullystocked casting pond, and out on the famed Battenkill River. For dates and more information, visit orvis. com/schools or call 866-531-6213.
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 33
GOLF 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
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Bethel Inn Resort
Bethel Inn Resort
Leaving Las Vegas for Golf In Mesquite, Nevada 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. Casa Blanca 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 Casa Blanca 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 Coral Canyon, Falcon Ridge, Coyote Springs, Sand Hollow 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 www.golfmesquitenevada.com
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 35
THE LITTLE MUNI THAT COULD | BY DAVID DESMITH
Maine’s Val Halla Celebrates
Its 50th Anniversary
It’s the summer of 1962. JFK is in the White House. Chubby Checker ‘s hit song “The Twist” is tantalizing teenagers (and horrifying parents). Johnny Carson has relieved Jack Paar as host of The Tonight Show. And a blonde-haired kid named Nicklaus has just embarked on his professional golf career. The post-war economy is going full throttle in America, leaving people more leisure time than they know what to do with. But up in Maine, a group of friends know very well what they want to do: play golf. The problem is, there just aren’t enough courses. One day, after waiting for hours to tee off at a city course in Portland, the four friends—Ralph Bernard, Bob Darling, Dave Higgins and Ted Lauritzen—decide they’ve had enough. “We went down to Coyne’s Sandwich shop at Woodford’s Corner after that round and had something to eat and a few beers,” said Darling, who passed away in 2007 but left a wonderful written history of the club’s early years. “The other guys, who were serious golfers, were complaining about how long it took us to play. On the way home, I said: ‘If you’re that fired up about it, why don’t we build our own golf course?’” Within 24 hours, things were moving. Bernard,
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an avid hunter, said he knew of several parcels of land in Cumberland that might be suitable. The group met at Higgins’ house at 10 a.m. the next morning and, as Darling writes, “By 2 p.m. we had 150 acres under option with nothing in the bank.” Bob Leighton, a basketball coach and athletic director at a local high school, and Andy Bun-
ker, a serious golfer, joined the original group. And then the work began. Blessed with enthusiasm but little else, the original six planned and plotted how to get their golf course off the ground. The land they bought was densely wooded, with several ravines and a small pond. At the time, there was no cleared road into the site. Starting in the fall of 1962 and continuing for three years, the group staged what came to be known as “work parties.” Families and friends were recruited to begin the backbreaking work of clearing the land. “Every weekend we were down there cutting and clearing,” Darling wrote. “If we had hired somebody it would have been quicker, but we didn’t have any money. The wives used to bring down sandwiches for lunch. We’d be there all day. I don’t know how we did it.” Though they knew enough to cut and hack at stumps and clear land, the club’s founders had no idea how to design a good golf course. But Bunker knew of Phil Wogan, a golf course architect based in Beverly, Mass. Wogan had designed many courses around New England and his father Skip had been a well known architect, too. Wogan agreed to lay out nine holes—and later designed the course’s second nine. Both nines offer prodigious challenges—especially when it comes to reading Val Halla’s subtle and vexing greens. In the fall of 1963, construction began on the clubhouse, and again, it was a labor of love for those early members, who all pitched in to help—either with manual labor or donations of furniture, carpeting and other clubhouse essentials. Whenever they encountered obstacles, determination and teamwork overcame them. After two and a half years of hard work characterized by trial-and-error, Val Halla officially opened for play in the summer of 1965. Today, Val Halla is one of Maine’s best—and busiest— courses. Owned and operated by the Town of Cumberland since the
early 1970’s, it keeps its 400plus golf association members busy. “Our members are crazy about golf,” said Brian Bickford, PGA professional at Val Halla. “They play about 50% of our rounds here and it’s a tight-knit group. On tournament weekends, the club has the feeling of a private club because the guys and women just love playing here and being here.” The course also offers a full slate of programs designed to introduce new players to the game, including three nights of “Wine & Nine” events for ladies, another night of “Stein & Nine” for men, and a full season of junior camps and clinics. Val Halla was chosen to be one of just 16 clubs in the country to host a PGA Junior Golf Camp this summer, and signups for that camp have outpaced every other PGA Junior Camp location—tribute to Bickford’s years of work with the area’s junior players. Bickford himself grew up playing golf at Val Halla, and he’s seen the club grow from a cute little muni into one of the state’s most important courses. “Sometimes it seems like I’ve spent half my life here. But it’s a great place to be.” Today, Val Halla is also the home of the First Tee and Maine State Golf Association. Like Bickford, Nancy Storey, Executive Director of the MSGA, played her junior golf at Val Halla. When the organization went looking for a place to locate its new headquarters a few years ago, her home course fit the bill perfectly. “It’s a natural home for us,” Storey said. “They really get what municipal golf is all about. It’s about growing the game, making it fun for all and spreading the values and traditions that the game represents.” To commemorate its 50th, the club has a whole slew of special events planned, including a “Town of Cumberland Day” on July 5th, where there will be music and revelry and games of all kinds for town residents. A “Garlic & Gaelic” golf event has also been scheduled. And in recognition of Val Halla’s 50th, the MSGA decided to host its 2015 Mid-Amateur at the club. Val Halla is a much beloved club with a rich history—and the future looks brighter than ever. All of which, undoubtedly, is a legacy that Bob Darling and the other founding members of Val Halla would be very proud of. www.valhallagolf.com
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 37
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 38 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | June 2015
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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
For Memberships – Gary Palmer 508-942-5873 Member For A Day Tee Times 508-824-9144 June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 39
FALL RIVER COUNTRY CLUB
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PRIVATE GOLF
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 *Free Jr. Membership for one year with Cat. A Membership* Category A Full Senior Single Membership - $2,395 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) June & July $55.00 | Call 508-677-9828 to Book Tee Times
Fall River Country Club
4232 North Main St., Fall River, MA 02720
PAWTUCKET
COUNTRY CLUB
The Best Membership Deal in Rhode Island “Fast Greens, Fast Rounds, Fast Friends”
• Dues of $4800 per year for the first two years • Golfing spouses/domestic partners can become Class C restricted members for $1300 • Children under the age of 18 are free • Family pool membership is included in every membership besides the Class E social • Locker room, bag storage are free • No tee times necessary • PCC’s pick up games are the best way to meet new people • Group discounts and social memberships available • Great golf course conditions are the norm
Join PCC Today Pawtucket Country Club has a long and proud tradition of offering members regularly scheduled games without the hassle of tee-times. Founded in 1902, the club offers members and their guests the opportunity to relax in an unhurried, family friendly atmosphere. In addition to a classic par 69 golf course, the club has a full dining and banquet facility and an Olympic sized swimming pool. The club located at 900 Armistice Boulevard is situated in both Pawtucket and Seekonk.
(401) 725-2918 | www.pawtucketcountryclub.com Pawtucket Country Club | 900 Armistice Blvd. Pawtucket, RI 02861
Will Betts Wins 50th Hornblower Memorial Tournament with 18th Hole Chip-in
University of Hartford junior Will Betts parlayed an unimpeachable two-over-par 71 with an improbable chip on the 18th hole to win the 50th Hornblower Memorial Tournament at Plymouth Country Club. His two-day total of 72-71=143 edged Nick McLaughlin by one stroke. One of three overnight leaders, McLaughlin shot 70-74=144. Betts, who had never seen the layout until his practice round, said, “This is my most important individual victory to date. It’s unbelievable to me that I won on a course of this magnitude with such an outstanding field. I stayed really patient, ignored the leader boards, and just let the round develop. I hit the ball really well and played smart golf.” The 21-year-old Betts, who lives in the Pittsburgh area and belongs to Longue Vue Club, avoided any of the major catastrophes that befell almost everyone else in the field of 65 and offset his four bogeys on holes 2, 7, 12, and 17 with two birdies. The
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first came on hole 6 when he drove the short par-4 green and two putted. The second birdie on 18 won the tournament for Betts. “My PW second shot to the green jumped off the club and landed about 30 yards long, just off the back of the green. I picked out my target on the green where I wanted the ball to land, I played the shot in my mind, and then I used my 58 degree wedge to hit my target. What happened next was crazy wonderful.” The Donald Ross-designed Plymouth CC course was in impeccable condition on this sunny but cool morning. However, the tricky, undulating greens that Stimped at 13 and the blustery northeast winds blowing off Cape Cod Bay proved daunting obstacles, especially for the trio of young guns who led with their opening round 70’s. McLaughlin, 20, from Wentworth By The Sea, shot a one-over par 35 on the front. He birdied 10 to take a three-shot lead on the field. Disaster struck, however, when he went five over par in three holes and never recovered. Evan Grenus, 17, and a member of TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, CT, carded two 38’s for a total of 146 and a tie for seventh place. Kevin Gately, 19 and a sophomore at St. Thomas Aquinas College just outside NYC, never really played a role on day two and shot a 79. From nearby Pinehills, Herbie Aikens, who began the day one shot back, shot a 74 on Saturday for a third-place tie. Former Hornblower champ Matt Parziale from Thorny Lea tied Aikens at 145 with his 71. The lowest scores of the day and of the tournament—even par 69—were shot by Doug Clapp of Old Sandwich, and Ben Spitz, unaffiliated. With their 76’s from Friday, they joined the tie for third place.
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 45
FORE FATHERS DAY GIFT GUIDE Arccos Golf Give the gift of better golf this Father’s Day. Arccos Golf is the game’s first ever fully-automatic performance tracker. Pair your sensors just once to each club, then let the free Arccos iPhone app track every shot and summarize your round. Arccos delivers stats that help golfers know where to improve. Does Dad have Apple Watch? The Arccos app for Apple Watch additionally features customized club recommendations, enhanced shot editing, GPS distances and more.
Get Arccos Golf for Dad at www.arccosgolf.com
Your Dad Deserves a Lobster Roll for Father’s Day Give your dad the perfect Lobster “roll” with our unique New England-inspired “Rock Lobster” Tin Cup golf ball-marking stencil for $19.95. Tin Cup is a stainless steel stencil that is easy to use, made in the USA, and guaranteed for life. Does your Dad love crab cakes, beer, or martinis? Is he a dog lover or true-blue patriotic? If you really want to impress your Pop, you can customize a Tin Cup — with your dad’s initials, monogram, logo, or family crest.
15% off your entire order by entering coupon code, “Lobster.” The discount applies to both in stock and custom designs. Contact us at Tin-Cup.com 703-876-6063 - info@tin-cup.com.
Give Dad Shorter Putts and Lower Scores Renegar Golf is the only manufacturer in golf focused solely on improving your short game. The Rx14 and RxF wedges feature a patented, tour-quality design that makes them the right wedge for every shot. A unique sole contour with a lower leading edge and more bounce delivers increased ball spin and better distance control. The Renegar wedges accommodate a variety of playing situations and produce better explosion shots in the sand. The process is entirely riskfree thanks to Renegar’s 30-day money back guarantee.
20% Off Dad’s Gift with Code fathersday2015 at www.renegargolf.com
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Gift Dad Less Putts with Axis 1 Golf
Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net
Axis1 Putters are the first 100% perfectly balanced putters and a great gift for dad. The putter will never turn open on him so he will hole more putts for rounds to come. Axis1 Putters are available in the Eagle, Umbra, Joey and Joey-C models with a 30 day money back guarantee. Considering how often he pulls out his putter, shouldn’t he use the one uniquely engineered to give him the best chance to make each and every putt?
Free shipping with code NEGMDAD at www.axis1golf.com
A Better Swing For Dad at Big Sticks Hey Dads-start the season off right with a one-hour golf swing analysis from Big Sticks Golf, a top-notch golf practice and instructional facility. We offer innovative technology, top-of-the-line equipment, and professional instruction, enabling golfers of all levels to maximize their potential and reach peak physical shape for the game. We are the place to go to learn, improve or practice your golf game! Learn more at www.bigsticksgolf.com.
Mention NEGM for the special price of $99 expires 6/30/2015. Call 781-229-2269 or email bigsticksgolf@verizon.net
GET DAD AN INFAMOUS GIFT The Infamous 18 Holes of Golf from golfer and artist Loyal H. Chapman comes is a series of golf course pictures that challenge the realms of possibility. The series has captured the attention of golf art collectors with unique renderings of wonders like Machu Picchu, the Grand Canyon and Victoria Falls turned into outlandish and fantastic fairways and putting greens. Each image captures a golfer’s paradise and features a comedic subtitle with the name of the hole, a brief description, yardage and par. Choose a giclee or lithograph print or even the collectors edition.
20% Off with code NEGM20 at Checkout. Visit www.TPKGolf.com to purchase.
Fore Father’s Day Gift Guide | June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 47
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
48 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | June 2015 | Fore Father’s Day Gift Guide
Looking for something unique to give Dad for Father’s Day....
How about inspiration.
Nice Shot® golf gloves are the gift that keeps on giving.... you give it to Dad.... Dad gives it to everyone else!! Nice Shot® Golf Gloves....
It is after all A Gentleman’s Game!
www.niceshotgolfgloves.com NiceShotGolfGloves @niceshotgolf @niceshotgolfgloves
Fore Father’s Day Gift Guide | June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 49
FORE FATHERS DAY GIFT GUIDE Short Par 4 No lines, no hassles, no mismatching. Short Par 4 puts together custom style boxes that get shipped monthly. $45 per month gets you styled apparel each month based on your style and sizes. What comes in the box? Short Par 4 works with many different vendors from big brands like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour to smaller brands like Travis Mathew, Linksoul, and Chase 54.
Visit www.shortpar4.com for more info.
Lite 4 Nite “ The new LITE4NITE” golf ball is the longest and most accurate golf ball made for twilight and nighttime play and fun. Amateurs and pros will love how this lighted golf ball hits, feels, spins and bites on the greens. It’s awesome to be able to now hit a lighted golf ball 300 yards and find it in the dark of night. Do yourself a favor and get some LITE4NITE balls today and start having the time of your life at night playing golf.
Discount Intro Offers For Dad at www.Lite4Nite.com as low as $39 for 3 balls and 1 Charger
TITANS Leaders in Industry & Golf’s Perfect Father’s Day Gift 33 CEOs Share how Golf Greatly Impacted their Lives and Businesses. Looking for a perfect gift to give the golfing dad this Father’s Day? “Two Good Rounds TITANS – Leaders in Industry & Golf” explores the close connection between business and golf through interviews with 33 of the world’s most prominent CEOs, some of whom own their own golf courses, and eight legendary professional golfers who have created international brands well beyond their on-course earnings.
“Two Good Rounds TITANS -- Leaders in Industry & Golf” (Skyhorse Publishing; $19.95; ISBN: 9781629148076), is available on www.amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and www.twogoodrounds.com.
50 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | June 2015 | Fore Father’s Day Gift Guide
Gift Dad a Better Short Game Pelz Golf 1-Day Clinics August 5 – 8 at the Pinehills Golf Club Pelz instruction has helped some of the best players in the world, including five-time major winner Phil Mickelson, perform to their peak potential. Meet the Pelz staff at Pinehills Golf Club (Plymouth, Mass.), August 5-8 and see what proven instruction does for YOUR game. Learn the essential chipping, putting, wedge and sand play skills you need to play, and score, with confidence and consistency.
To Enroll Call 800-837370 or at PelzGolf.com
Patrick Gibbons
The goal at Patrick Gibbons Handmade is to produce unique and stylish handmade golf equipment by true craftsmen while using the best materials nature has to offer. The staff at Patrick Gibbons Handmade that produce these unique exotic leather golf equipment is quite diverse, ranging from leather makers from the boot and shoe industries, to bag makers from the golf industry. We do not claim that our products will drastically lower your scores or fix your swing, however we do believe that you will look and feel better while playing, and that actually may help your confidence and your game.
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Teecil Radical New Golf Promotional Item That Your Customers Will Remember The Teecil is a one of a kind unique promotional item specifically developed for the golf industry. As a giveaway at tournaments or for special events, the Teecil is a novel product that is a functional golf tee and pencil in one. It is a great new way to have your customers remember your company or organization. The Teecil is approved by the USGA for use in play and made in Massachusetts. Don’t know what to get dad for Father’s Day. How about giving him #1 Dad Teecils or better yet, get him his own personalized Teecils.
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MOLORI UNPLUGGED | BY JOHN MOLORI
Wakefield knuckles down on golf Tim Wakefield’s career as a major league pitcher was a series of ups and downs. He burst onto the scene as a phenom, knuckleballing his way to an 8-1 record down the stretch and becoming a postseason hero for the 1992 Pittsburgh Pirates. When things soured in Pittsburgh, he joined the Red Sox in 1995 and went 16-8.
Wakefield would remain in Boston for 17 seasons as a starter, reliever, and closer, the longest tenured pitcher in team history. He won more games as a Red Sox than anyone not named Cy Young or Roger Clemens, but still had to fight for a spot on the club each spring. Wakefield surrendered a home run to the Yankees’ Aaron Boone that lost the 2003 pennant, but was a leader on the 2004 team’s surge to a historic championship. He had ERA’s as low as 2.81 and as high as 5.48. He had double digit wins 11 times and single digit wins 6 times. Through it all, there was golf. “I really did not start playing golf seriously until I got to the minors,” says the 48-year-old Wakefield, who retired after the 2011 season and is now a NESN analyst. “I was playing A ball in Salem, Virginia and there were so many great courses down there. In the minor leagues and the majors, I was lucky enough to be on teams that allowed you to bring your clubs on road trips.” Wakefield has played such hallowed golf grounds as St. Andrews, Kingsbarns, Castle Stuart, and Royal Dornoch, but one domestic
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venue stands out for him. “I had a chance to play Augusta two times. It was like going to Rome and seeing the Sistine Chapel. I was extremely intimidated when I stepped to the first tee.” Augusta was the site of Wakefield’s most memorable golf moment. He relates, “It was the second day, the second time I played there. I hit a ball that bounced in the creek. It was half in and half out of the water. I took my shoes off and knocked it in for a birdie on 13. That was something I will never forget.” Wakefield’s golf bucket list includes Carnoustie. He counts Pine Valley among his favorite local courses and ex-players Derek Lowe, Dana Levangie, and Jim Rice among his favorite golf buddies. “Jim and I became
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playing partners when I first got to Boston,” says Wakefield. “Even today, at 62 years-old, he absolutely kills the golf ball.” One of the all-time great knuckleballers truly became part of Red Sox lore in 2004. “I really saw the emergence of Red Sox Nation that season,” says Wakefield, who won 12 games in 2004. “A younger generation started liking the Red Sox again. “Winning the championship was most special because of the generations of Red Sox fans. I mean, people visited deceased relatives at cemeteries after we won it. I thought about exRed Sox players like Johnny Pesky, Luis Tiant, Yaz, and Dwight Evans. It was all pretty amazing.” For Wakefield, golf recaptures some of that excitement he felt facing big league hitters with the game on the line. He explains, “I don’t think any player can ever really find anything that replaces the adrenaline of taking the field in a major-league baseball game, but golf gives you an adrenaline rush of another kind. “It’s a different element of intimidation when I play in big events and I’m standing at the tee with 30,000 people watching me.” 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
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TOUR SNAPSHOT | BY JACK ROSS
CHAMBERS BAY WILL PRESENT
UNIQUE CHALLENGES AT U.S. OPEN
On the eve of the 115th U.S. Open at Chambers Bay on the shore of Puget Sound, USGA executive director Mike Davis laid down the gauntlet to touring pros: don’t expect to breeze into town the week of the Open, play a couple practice rounds, and have a chance to win. Davis believes that to expect to compete, players will have to spend time to learn the unique attributes of the first links course to host a U.S. Open. Not all players are convinced they need to disrupt their busy schedules to devote a half dozen practice rounds at Chambers Bay. “What’s Mike Davis’s handicap?” quipped Rory McIlroy. Webb Simpson remarked sarcastically: “We’ll play for second.” Nevertheless, there is no doubt that both players and fans will experience a radically different U.S. Open at Chambers Bay, a publically-owned course carved out of striking dune land that once was the site of mining operations. The 7,742-yard par 70 tract designed by Robert Trent Jones features enormously wide, undulating and firm fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and fescue grasses which are not typically found in the United States. Oh, and there is only one tree on the course: the “Lone Fir” near the 15th green. Given his errant driving of late, this must please Tiger Woods. Davis commented that the decision to bring the U.S. Open to Chambers Bay was “a little bit of out of the box thinking.” He emphasized that the links course demands a different type of strategy. “It’s what happens when the ball is on the ground, not how far it goes in the air.” Davis also noted that this will be the first time a U.S. Open has been played on a course with 100% fescue grass, which flourishes in the British Isles, New
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Zealand, and the marine zone of the Pacific Northwest. Fescue is a thin-bladed grass, which doesn’t grab the golf ball – it tends to skid and roll. “You’ve got to think about what happens when your ball hits, where it’s going to bounce and roll,” said Davis. He said balls on the fescue greens will “roll beautifully,” with little bounce. In keeping with the USGA’s new philosophy of environmental consciousness and water conservation, the fescue grasses at Chambers Bay grow slowly and require less water and fertilizer. Fescue grass also turns brown in hot weather, so don’t expect to see the lushest Open course. The USGA plans to introduce some new features at Chambers Bay. For the first time, two holes will change par during the tournament. Both the 1st and 18th holes will alternate between par 4s and par 5s. The par-4 16th hole will play as long as 423 yards and as short as 287 yards. And the 227-yard par-3 ninth hole has two different tees: one creating a downhill shot with a 100-foot drop, and another creating an uphill shot. Expect to see constantly-changing winds off of Puget Sound play a huge factor in the championship. Holes will play radically different from day-today, and even from morning to afternoon. Fittingly, the name of the par-3 3rd hole is “Blowout.” Just when you thought the USGA had exhausted all of its diabolical tricks to make the U.S. Open the toughest test in golf, the teeing grounds at Chambers Bay have sparked a new concept: placing tees on slopes. Yes, tees on slopes. Hitting off a flat lie apparently is not challenging enough for Davis. If this happens, there should be some colorful press conferences.
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THE AMATEUR SCENE | BY STEVE RIGGS
Junior Players to Watch / New England’s Finest We have some of the best young amateur players in the country. Most certainly some of them are destine to join the ranks of our Team New England players on the PGA, LPGA, Web.Com and Symetra tours. Each month we hope to profile a boy and girl for the month followed by four other young players. Below are our selections for this issue.
Top Boy Junior Golfer Will Dickson, (RI) is the #1 junior player in the Rhode Island and ranked 28th nationally according to the GolfWeek Junior Boys Rankings, (at this writing). Last year Dickson took medalist honors in the Rhode Island Interscholastic Golf Championship as a freshman at Moses Brown School. The young man won by a whopping 14 strokes after an impressive opening round 4-under-par 67. Will was the youngest player to compete in the 2014 Northeast Amateur. Now a sophomore at Moses Brown, Dickson reached the round of 16 in the U.S. Junior Amateur last July at the Woodlands, outside Houston. He lost to the eventual champion, 1-up, after leading by
Top Girl Junior Golfer Angela Garvin, (MA). Last year the 13-year-old Feeding Hills resident captured the Connecticut Section PGA Junior Championship on her home course The Ranch Golf Club in Southwick. Coming back from a four-stroke deficit with seven holes to play, the youngster forced a playoff. She then won the event with a birdie on the fifth extra hole. Garvin posted rounds of 77 and 75 that day. Her efforts qualified her for a trip to the National PGA Junior Championship last July at Miramont CC in Bryan College Station, Texas. She was one of only two 13 year old girls to compete in the 2014 PGA Junior Championship at Miramont
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three holes early in the match. Dickson did defeat a top Wake Forest 2015 recruit in the opening round of the Junior Amateur, upsetting No. 9 seed Cameron Young, 2 and 1. Although he spent most of his summer last year caddying at Sankaty Head, on Nantucket, Dickson finished in the top 10 in three junior tournaments last year. He tied for third at the Southern Junior, tied for sixth in the AJGA Wells Fargo Junior Classic and was sixth in the Innisbrook Junior Classic in January 2013. Dickson, 15, has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at Georgia Tech when the time comes.
Country Club in Bryan, Texas. At age 12 Garvin carried a 2.1 handicap at The Ranch Golf Club. The youngster has been named the PGA Junior Golf Player of the Year in back to back seasons of 2013 and 2014. Last year Garvin told a reporter; “People still ask me ‘Are you a junior or a sophomore?’ “And I’m like . . ‘I’m going into seventh grade.’ In two years of regional competition Angela has won 19 of 29 events she played. Her lowest finish in two years? That would be on fifth place finish. 2015 should be a very interesting year for one Angela Garvin, Feeding Hills, MA.
AMATEUR SCENE
Other Junior Standout Picks for The Month Boys Patrick Welch, (RI) won the Boys 15-16 division of the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship National Finals at Augusta National during Masters week. In 2013, Welch won his division for the Rhode Island State Junior Championship. Welch qualified for the Rhode Island State Amateur Match Play Championship advancing to the round of 16 before losing to a college golfer from Old Dominion University.
Girls
Patrick was the youngest of the 156 players to qualify for the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship in 2013. To qualify the youngster fired a 66 at ThornE-Lea for a 36-hole total of 140. Steven DiLisio, (MA) is a junior at Phillips Exeter Academy won the 2014 New England Junior championship. DiLisio has an unprecedented five straight MGA State Junior division titles to his name. He continues to be a competitor to be dealt with as the young man won the N.E. Junior at Ledgemont CC in Seekonk.
senior passed on the popular college National Signing Day. The Rockland player’s record includes winning the 2013 AJGA Ping Invitational at Karsten Creek in Stillwater, Okla. It was her first AGJA win in just her fourth AGJA start. Megan won the 2014 Doral Publix Junior Classic. She likes Doral as it was her third win since 2006. Khang finished 18th in the 2014 AJGA ANNIKA Invitational and plans to be in the field for the inaugural LPGA Symetra Tour stop in Brockton for the J.W.Mason Championship scheduled for mid August.
Alexandra Sazhin, (CT), has a very interesting back story. Alexandra was born in Saint-Petersburg, Russia in 1997, living there until age 9 when her family moved to United States. It was in California in 2007 when she took up golf before ending up in Greenwich, CT. A senior at Greenwich High, Sazhin earned medalist honors, (74), leading the girls’ golf team to the 2014 FCAIC conference championship. Sazhin won the 2014 Greenwich Ladies Town Tournament tying the course record shooting a 3 under par 70 at Griffiths E. Harris Golf Course. Megan Khang, (MA), profiled in the March issue of NEGM, has the college golf world stymied. The
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 57
CELEBRITY GOLFER // BY LEIGH MCKAY
Celebrity Golfer:
Jane Blalock A native of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and now a resident of Cambridge, Massachusetts, former LPGA superstar Jane Blalock is just as important to the golf world today as she was when she won 27 times between 1969-1985. Maybe more so! A graduate of Rollins College in Florida and a five-time consecutive winner of the NH Amateur, Jane made 299 straight cuts in the course of a decade, LPGA and PGA records still. More importantly, perhaps, Jane organized The Legends Tour in 2000, a nostalgic mulligan for the LPGA’s greats who are older than 45. Through her determination, this Official Senior Tour of the LPGA, has grown to 10 events for 2015 with one at Pinehills in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in September. The Legends Tour has brought back the charm and charisma of the Golden Age of the LPGA from the 1970s-1990s. Life after the LPGA Tour opened new opportunities for Jane. She entered the financial world and learned business strategies with Merrill Lynch. She then formed JBC Golf, Inc.—Jane Blalock Company—in 1990. JBC Golf markets and administers The Legends Tour and also empowers and educates business women about golf. Jane was instrumental, after many years of persistence and persuasion, in encouraging the USGA to establish the US Senior Women’s Open Championship, with its first tournament set for 2018.
NEGM: Why will the US Senior Women’s Open be good for golf?
JB: The challenge in golf is how to grow the game. The USGA, as the governing body and the eyes and ears of golf, had completely overlooked the women’s market and the female “baby boomers.” I think this champion-
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ship sends a message that, finally, there will be equality in the game of golf and that the discriminatory issue—GOLF=Gentlemen Only Ladies Forbidden—will be a thing of the past.
NEGM: How did you come to organize The Legends Tour?
JB: In 2000, the men’s Senior Tour was receiving a lot of promotion. I was no longer competing but was working for ESPN TV. I’d be in the women’s locker room talking to players in the twilight of their careers—like Nancy Lopez, Hollis Stacy, Jan Stephenson, and Beth Daniel—and I would hear, “Why can’t we have something like that?” Several of us talked to the golf commissioners, but our plans fell on deaf ears. The answer always seemed to be, “We’re going to focus on youth.” However, in a short period of time, we put together 25 players who put up $5,000 apiece seed money to get the tour moving forward. We had our first tournament in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the LPGA allowing us to give it a try. We quickly proved the naysayers wrong. That first day we had 15,000 spectators show up, and an LPGA official showed up the next day to see what we were doing. So, we
CELEBRITY GOLFER were off and running!
NEGM: Comment upon the success of The Legends Tour.
JB: Since 2000 we have played for more than $13M, but we have helped raise more than $17M for charity. The Legends Tour has historically given a lot more money to charity than what the women play for. I wish we had more tournaments, but we are making steady progress and are growing. We appreciate our corporate sponsors very much like Wendy’s, BJ’s, Chico’s and Walgreens. How could it get any better than to watch players like Patty Sheehan, Pat Bradley, Amy Alcott, JoAnne Carner, Sally Little, and Jan Stephenson to mention a few of the 120 plus competitors? So many names that spectators and fans in our country certainly recognize and remember. This year we have new blood with the likes of Juli Inkster, Meg Mallon, and Michelle McGann. Annika will be eligible for the November event. Nothing has been confirmed, but it would be a chance for Annika to show her appreciation for the LPGA players who paved the way and created the platform for her to become so successful. Galleries have been fantastic everywhere. The Chico’s event in Fort Myers in April where The Legends Tour players joined the Symetra Tour [“Road to the LPGA”] players was a winning combination, too, and may lead to other dualtour events. It certainly helps us as we have been asking for a little more support from the LPGA, and I think this is the beginning of recognizing how important we are. The Symetra Tour doesn’t usually draw big galleries, so the Legends players will certainly boost the gate.
tember, and nine of them have been sold out. We are celebrating our 25th anniversary and were ahead of our time with this concept of encouraging women in business to play golf and enhance relationship developmental skills.
NEGM: What do you remember most about your LPGA experiences?
JB: Winning the first Colgate-Dinah Shore Winner’s Circle championship in 1972. The purse was $100,000, five times bigger than the second-largest purse of $20,000. It was covered on national TV, and Dinah and all her friends were there. The LPGA became a very big deal that week. It was a unique experience for me. I won a lot of other big tournaments, too, but, more importantly, I remember the camaraderie, the friendships, the funny stories we would tell, and the many activities that we would do together.
NEGM: Who would be on your Dream Team of today. Of any time period?
JB: Condi Rice, Bill Clinton, Mickey Wright, and IBM CEO Ginni Rometty. Babe Zaharias, Ben Hogan, Walter Hagen, and President Eisenhower.
NEGM: What do you still have left to accomplish?
JB: I want to be eligible for the first US Senior Women’s Open! After all these years of working to make it a reality, I don’t want to be standing on the sidelines. A definite goal is to have The Legends Tour become a household name and one of the most successful franchises in sports.
NEGM: Explain your LPGA Golf Clinics for Women.
JB: The clinics are a signature property of JBC Golf that we created and run. Designed for career-minded business women, it is a full day of total game instruction led by an LPGA teaching professional and hosted by an LPGA Legend. It is supported by Fidelity, KPMG, and Met Life. We have 15 clinics, with two in Massachusetts, from April through Sep-
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 59
TINKERS NEST
Adjustable Drivers Good For Your Game By Ed Travis
If you are still teeing it up with a driver that doesn’t have the features allowing dial-in of just the right settings to help maximize your tee ball results now is the time to start thinking about an upgrade. Manufactures models this year offer lots of enhancements making a new driver worthwhile so begin your selection process with this quick rundown of the ones we like from the current offerings. As we have recommended many times, get fitted on a launch monitor. It’s the only way to find the driver that’s right for you…or, put another way, the most yards for your money.
Adams Golf
The Adams Blue ($299) has their Easy Launch system consisting of a slot in the sole behind the clubface along with a thinner shaft tip for more kick at impact. Add to that a center of gravity placed low and towards the rear of the drawbiased clubhead and the Blue gets the ball airborne easily for better distance and control.
Bridgestone Golf
Bridgestone says they don’t bring out a new driver just for the sake of having a new driver so the J715 model ($399) targeted for low-handicaps and pros is something special. There’s a choice of four lofts with face and lie angle adjustments and Bridgestone’s Flex Action Speed Technology crown which is thinnest near the clubface, thickening towards the rear for higher launch by allowing the crown to flex at impact.
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TINKERS NEST
Callaway Golf
Callaway club sales have been on an upward trend and with that in mind we looked at their three new models this season. We especially liked the XR model that features a “Speed Step Crown” to lower aerodynamic drag for more clubhead speed plus they reduced face thickness to save weight and increase energy transmission to the ball. Callaway’s OptiFit system with 8 loft and lie setting is standard. The XR retails for $349.
Cleveland Golf
Known for their wedges, Cleveland drivers may fly a little under the radar but take a look at the new CG Black Custom driver ($400) a light (275 grams) designed for swing speeds between 85 and 105 mph. More importantly though the light weight gives the average golfer the chance to swing faster and that means the possibility of more distance. Adjustable in lofts between 9 and 12 degrees, a Mitsubishi Bassara E50 graphite shaft is standard.
Cobra Golf
Dropping the Bio Cell brand name of the last few years, Cobra now has the Fly-Z line that includes a driver with extra-large clubface, hosel adjustability and added forgiveness from moving weight towards the back of clubhead. You can upgrade to the Fly-Z+ which lets the user move a 15-gram sole weight from front to rear to adjust spin and launch angle. The Fly-Z retails for $330 and the Fly-Z+ is $400.
Knuth Golf
Dean Knuth, as a former senior director of the USGA, knows about golf clubs and has designed the 460cc High Heat driver ($399) especially for amateurs. He took into account that we often contact the ball below the center of the clubface causing a loss of both distance and accuracy. To compensate the High Heat has a center of gravity that’s both deep and low for distance, forgiveness and reduced ball spin.
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TINKERS NEST
Mizuno
The new Mizuno JPX-850 ($400) with adjustable hosel has a sole weight adjustment arrangement allowing the two 8-gram weights to be placed in position along the center line of the sole to effect launch angle and in the two positions towards the heel and one near the toe to adjust side spin. Mizuno also helped overall distance with what they call a Shock Wave sole that adds to the flex of the clubhead at impact for more ball speed.
PING
The PING G30 ($350) attracted a lot of interest both for being seen on television swung by Bubba Watson with an attention-attracting pink shaft but also for the “Turbulators” on the crown that redirect airflow for more clubhead speed. That interest translated into making the G30 the best-selling driver so far this year. There is a low-spin version, the LS Tec, for high swing speed players and one to aid in straightening out slices, the SF Tec.
TaylorMade Golf
TMaG has brought back the “R” designation with the white headed R15. The adjustment system is similar to the SLDR driver of last year but with a major change. Rather than one sliding weight there are now two allowing for even more compensation for distance-killing side spin. Also significant, the weight channel has been moved much closer to the clubface to act as a sole slot for additional flexing of the face at impact. Both the 460cc and 430cc models are $430. TMaG’s new AeroBurner driver, an update of the RocketBallz, is competitively priced at $300 and all about speed. The matte white finish AeroBurner is lightweight, coming in at under 300 grams, with a new raised center crown aerodynamic head shape, a stock 50-gram shaft and even a small drag-reducing fin on the hosel.
Tour Edge
The adjustable Exotics E8 driver ($300) has improved weight placement and Tour Edge’s Power Grid design in the sole. This is an easy to hit, high launch driver producing lower spin. The E8 Beta ($400) has a 440cc low-spin face with a deeper face that gives a boring trajectory preferred by better players. Not to be overlook though is their new Hot Launch driver. It’s adjustable, has a 460cc four-piece forged clubhead with impressive stability and forgiveness. Tour Edge may really have a winner since retail for the Hot Launch is an eye-popping $200 and there’s a non-adjustable draw configured model for just $150.
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TINKERS NEST
Get in the Game with Graphite 2015 Driver Shaft Review By NEGM Staff Getting fitted for a shaft in your driver is by far the most important part in the club fitting process. We have assembled some of the best shafts in the industry to help you in the selection process. If chosen correctly, a new shaft can help you get the most out of your swing, regardless of your abilities. Getting fitted is key; make an appointment at your local club fitting center to see which shaft is best for you!
GRAPHITE DESIGN
The Tour AD MJ is designed with a softer tip and stiffer mid to butt section to promote a higher launch and low/mid spin. We noticed minimal deviation and a consistent ball flight. The Tour AD MJ is a must try! The YS NanoReloaded is designed to promote Mid/High launch angles with Low/Mid ball spin rates. If you’re looking for a high performance shaft for a reasonable price, this is the shaft for you.
OBAN
The Tour Limited is designed and is ideal for players seeking a Mid/ High ball launch with Low/Mid spin. If you want to maximize accuracy and distance, the Tour Limited is your shaft. The Kiyoshi White ranks among the most advanced composite shafts in the world. The Kiyoshi White is ideal for a player seeking a mid ball launch with lower spin. The Isawa is an active bend profile shaft, ideal for golfers seeking mid/high launch and low/mid spin characteristics. The Isawa is designed to optimize energy transfer to the ball. Many Tour Pros use Oban as their shaft of choice.
FUJIKURA
The Speeder Evolution provides the most overall performance in the Fujikura line up. Whether you’re looking for ball speed, accuracy, consistency or all of the above, the Speeder Evolution is the shaft for you. The Speeder Pro is available exclusively through after-market channels and offers Mid Launch with Mid Spin. The Pro Tour Spec was designed with a custom bending profile which creates a stiffened mid and tip section with more forgiveness in the handle section, this shaft produces a mid launch and low spin, allowing for greater distances.
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TINKERS NEST
UST MAMIYA
The Elements Chrome and Chrome+ use UST Mamiya patent “Recoil Technology” to optimize the spring effect and promote the highest and most efficient energy transfer from butt to tip to maximize ball speed and reduce ball dispersion. The result: pure distance, unmatched accuracy and precise control. For the player looking to increase initial launch and carry with mid spin, control and accuracy, these are a great shaft for you.
AEROTECH
The Claymore MX48 & MX60 are ideal for a player looking to fine tune launch angles and spin rates. If you’ve been playing heavier driver shafts in the past just to maintain stability now it’s time to try the new generation of ultra-lights, the Aerotech Claymore MX60 and MX48.
MATRIX
The OZIK X4 White Tie has a stiffness profile designed for efficient energy transfer in a stable structure that offers control in a high-launch, low-spin shaft. The OZIK Q4 Red Tie is designed for tight dispersion in a mid-launch, mid-spin shaft at a variety of weights. The OZIK M4 Black Tie is a highly stable shaft for aggressive players who desire a flatter ball flight and low spin. The REIGN HDZ is a premium wood shaft with Boron and Zylon materials producing mid launch and spin characteristics. The OZIK TP6HDe is designed with the HD platform from butt to tip, improving stability and reducing deformation down to near zero. The TPHDe lines of shafts are the smoothest, nicest to swing shafts on the planet, and you will play with a level of confidence you’ve never felt before.
MITSUBISHI RAYON
The Kuro Kage XT combination delivers a shaft with firmer buttsection and tip-section, with lower torque. The XT allows the shaft to efficiently transfer and unload energy and creates extra strength and stability to reduce shaft deformation at impact. The Kuro Kage Silver TiNi is a low launch, low spin shaft, but with added stability and increased energy that releases through the impact zone, adding explosive power. The Diamana B- Series takes power and control to a new level, with maximum energy transfer by stabilizing the butt section for a mid/high launch with low spin to maximize distance. The BASSARA GG-Series has been designed to be a lower launching, lower spinning, light weight yet high performance profile. The stiff tip and butt section of the GG profile provides greater stability but with a 40 gram offering it is also one of their lightest.
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 65
Summer Golf Training Camp. Have Fun, Make Friends, Better Your Game. SUMMER CAMP at the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy is the perfect opportunity to work on each area of your game with technical training, fitness training, mental training and on-course training, preparing you to reach your goals in golf! CAMP DETAILS - Stay for 1, 2, 4 or 8 Weeks - Weekend Tournaments - Trips to Orlando Theme Parks - Holistic Program
2015 Dates - T raining & Golf at Mission Inn Resort - Personal Drills
Week 1: June 14-20 *Week 2: June 21-27 Week 3: June 28-July 4 *Week 4: July 5-11
Week 5: July 12-18 *Week 6: July 19-25 Week 7: July 26-Aug 1 *Week 8: Aug 2-8 *optional PJT tournament
To contact us, call 866-639-9099 or visit GGGASummerCamp.com
Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy is located at 10400 County Road 48, Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida GaryGilchristGolfAcademy
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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
66 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | June 2015
GOLFit 360 is now open! Come out and be part of something special. Teaching Professional Jeff Dantas will be running his “Grow the game of golf” clinics throughout the summer. Beginner Golf clinics run every Saturday from 9am-10am. Womens clinics run every Wednesday from 5:30pm-6:30pm. GOLFit 360 is open to all Jr Golfers every Saturday from 10am-Noon. Jr’s receive unlimited use of range balls, swing instruction and much more for $15!! GOLFit 360 offers 26 outdoor hitting bays, 5 indoor bays,120 yd grass tees, multiple targets and soon will have one of the best short game practice areas in the state. Sign up now and “Grow the game of golf”.
To register or sign up for lessons contact Jeff Dantas at (774) 365-0409 GOLFit 360| 326 Market St. Warren, RI 02885 | www.GOLFit360.com @Golfit_360
Golfit360
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
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 67
AROUND THE GAME
Big Sticks ½ | Broken Tee ½
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AROUND THE GAME New England Well Represented at 76th Senior PGA Championship.
Dye Course at French Lick proves its major mettle in Senior PGA Championship
Pete Dyes “Snake in the Hills” as it was nicknamed by golf writer’s years back after an event there held true to form in this years PGA Championship. Every hole but one, the par 5 ninth played over par for the 4 round championship. Colin Montgomerie walked away with a winning total of -8 well ahead of the field as only 4 other players broke par for the event. Three New England Professionals were part of the field at the Championship held at the Pete Dye Course at French Lick Indiana, home of Boston Celtic legend Larry Bird. Bill Andrade lead all New Englander’s with an 8 over score for the tournament and finished 35th. The Bristol RI native shot +1 on the final
days round. Billy is enjoying a great year in his second season on the Champions Tour with a win at the Bass Pro Shops Legend’s, he has over $400,000 in earnings already in 2015 on the Tour. Eddie Kirby, the head professional at Alpine Country Club in Cranston, Rhode Island finished +10 in 45th place After sliding into the weekend at 7-over-par — two shots below the cut line — Kirby carded a 1-under 71 Saturday. The round included a birdie in front of a large crowd on the 18th hole. Jim Remy, who was PGA president for two years beginning in 2008 caddied for Eddie at this years PGA Senior Championship New Hampshire native son PGA Champions Tour player Kirk Hanefeld who has been on the Champions Tour since 2006 finished 74th in the field at +21
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 69
AROUND THE GAME New Champions Crowned; J.C. Guthrie & Matthew Leger Capture 2015 Massachusetts Four-Ball Championship Under blue skies but unrelenting windy conditions from start to finish, the team of J.C. Guthrie (Oak Hill CC) & Matthew Leger (Oak Hill CC) defeated Cody Booska (Crumpin-Fox Club) and Troy Miller (Crumpin-Fox Club) in a one-hole suddendeath playoff to capture the 2015 Massachusetts Four-Ball Championship title.
MSGA Announces 2015 Scholarships Since its modest inception in 1950, the MSGA Scholarship Fund, formerly the Maine Caddie Scholarship Fund has given more than $1,300,000 to help Maine students pay for college. The Fund has helped more than 500 students hailing from all 16 counties and more than 125 different towns. Our scholarship “alumni� include doctors, mariners, business executives, golf course managers, golf pros, and community leaders from many different vocations.
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Students are selected based on their financial need, academic performance, and participation in the game of golf, the golf industry, and character. In 2015 the MSGA Scholarship Committee has selected 15 new recipients for awards of $1500 renewable for up to four years of undergraduate education. Added to our commitment to renewing recipients, the new awards make a total current commitment to students of about $90,000.
AROUND THE GAME Ben Day Wins 12th Russell C. Palmer Cup 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 evenpar total and sealed the victory with a birdie on the first playoff hole. Conducted by the Connecticut State 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.
National Golf Foundation 2014 Report Positive about Growth for 2015 Golf participation in 2014 remained equal to the previous 12 months, marking the third consecutive year that roughly 25 million people played at least one round of golf, according to the NGF’s Golf Participation in the U.S. 2015 edition (click here to learn how NGF measures participation). Participation appears to have found its post-recession footing, while positive signs with respect to utilization and interest in playing among non-golfers, show that golf remains attractive and aspirational to multiple segments of the population. The average number of rounds played per
golfer also continued to increase in 2014. Golfers played slightly more than 18 rounds on average last year, more than one round per golfer compared to 2005, when participation was at its highest. The loss of less frequent players added to the increase in the average, but the sport has benefited from increased activity among its committed (core) golfers, who are playing two more rounds on average per year than they did in 2005. This Council currently surveys 40,000 Americans ages 6 and above every year regarding their participation in more than 100 sports and fitness activities, including golf.
June 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 71
AROUND THE GAME CVS Health Charity Classic adds Four more Top-Tier Professional Golfers to its 2015 Roster at RICC
The CVS Health Charity Classic has added four more PGA TOUR professionals to its roster: Jimmy Walker, Bill Haas, Hunter Mahan and Jon Curran. These elite players will be part of a field of 20 professional golfers who will compete in the June 28-30 charity golf tournament at Rhode Island Country Club. Walker is currently the 12th ranked player in the world and 2nd in FedExCup standings. Six-time PGA TOUR champion Haas will return to Rhode Island Country Club for the seventh time. Most recently Haas won the 2015 Humana Challenge in partnership with The Clinton Foundation. He currently ranks 16th on the FedExCup points list and 22nd in the Official World Golf Ranking. Haas, along with his father Jay, was the 2004 CVS Charity Classic champion. Returning to the CVS Health Charity Clas-
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sic for the third time, Mahan is a six-time PGA TOUR winner who currently ranks 33rd in the world and sits in 56th place in the FedExCup standings. Additionally, he has competed on four Presidents Cup and two Ryder Cup teams. Curran, who joins the Charity Classic roster for the first time, most recently placed second at the Puerto Rico Open. He and Keegan Bradley teamed together at Hopkinton High School (Mass.) to win a team state championship together. Tickets: Single, good-any-day tickets ($25) for the 2015 CVS Health Charity Classic can be purchased at cvshealthcharityclassic. com. Children 17 and under are free with a ticketed adult.
myNEGM.com
June 2015 Vol 8 | Issue 4
Editor / Publisher
Timothy R. Branco tim@nepubinc.com
Reach Over 700,000 New England Golfers Monthly
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Chris Hunter
CollectiveThoughtMedia.com
Administration
Mary L. Hullett
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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.
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Members
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ft to right): n family (le oug of the Rubi lary, and D Hi , ad Br Robert,
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.
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GORMAN VS GEARY
face every Father’s Day weekend: Is the US Open the toughest test in golf? Or is the US Open course tricked up, unfair, and ludicrous, with the USGA’s sole intention to humiliate the sports best players? Clearly the USGA adds an “unfair” ingredient to the golf courses not normally seen at weekly Tour stops. And, clearly, the USGA during its 119-year history has created an element of excitement, anticipation and suspense that has become golf’s biggest stage. At the US Open the players are the headliners, but the golf course shares the marquee, and past championships have transformed into some of the most memorable moments in golf history. While earning massive amounts of money Who was America’s first golf hero? Francis playing golf, an unwritten rule on the PGA Tour is Ouimet, of course, because as the ultimate unthat players should never-ever publicly complain. derdog he won the 1913 US Open at The CounWhether you’re a superstar talent like Dustin Johntry Club in an 18-hole playoff against two of the son or Phil Mickelson, or struggling has-beens like world’s best players at the time. And, who can James Driscoll or Brad Adamonis, no matter what forget the indelible images of Tiger Woods playbad breaks upend your career, you don’t ever ing in excruciating pain, wincing on every shot as mouth off. the championship wore on, at Pebble Beach in A notable exception to that rule 2008, then going on to beat Rocca involved the 1999 Ryder Cup Mediate in a playoff. team demanding money For all the precious to play for the USA, memories from the US because the PGA of Open there have been America semi-annually several disasters like the pocketed upwards of 1974 event at Winged $20 million. That comFoot , won by Hale Irwin plaint was resolved by alwith a score of 7-over par. The by Tom Gorman lowing players to donate $200K average score after the first day was to their personal charity, instead of receiving a 77. The tournament is better known as Massacre direct-deposit paycheck. The other exception at Winged Foot because of ankle deep rough, about Tour players not complaining involves a tricked-up greens and pin placements and other tournament held every June, orchestrated by assorted goofiness conspired by the weak minds the USGA, called the US Open. And, according of USGA hierarchy. to rumblings on the Internet, particularly Twitter, Four-time US Open champion Jack Nicklaus is the negative comments have begun already, famous for saying how he would listen to players concerning expected “unfair” conditions at complain about the US Open and figure that was Chambers Bay, located near Seattle, Washingone less guy to beat that week. Australian Geoff ton, site of this year’s contest. Ogilvy, winner in 2006, concurs with Nicklaus that USGA executive director Mike Davis boldly it’s all about attitude saying, “It’s a massive adproclaimed a warning in early May to the world’s vantage if you get your head in the right place best players scheduled to compete at Chambers before you go.” Bay June 18-21, “The idea of coming in and playRenowned Spaniard and golf Hall of Famer ing two practice rounds and having your caddy Seve Ballesteros summed it up nicely, “I’d like just walk it and using your yardage book, that perto see the fairways more son’s done. He will not win the US Open.” narrow. Then everybody Several players responded to Davis’ antagowould have to play from nistic comment, including Ian Poulter, who said the rough, not just me.” he listened to a few players who made scouting Tom Gorman, will be trips and posted, “The reports back are that it’s watching the Golf Chana complete farce. I guess someone has to win.” nel and FOX during Open So the same questions about the USGA surweek.
Does the USGA create unfair golf course conditions for the US Open?
76 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | June April 2015 2015
GORMAN VS GEARY
Oh, boo hoo! The USGA makes the United States Open Golf Championship courses too hard. It’s no fun. We can’t make birdies by the bunches. They make us look foolish. We hit good shots and get bad breaks. The greens are too hard, the rough is too high. The fairways are not wide enough to land a 747 of them. This is the lamentation from so many of those each year who get the snot kicked out of them by the United States Golf Association’s set up for the championship of this country. Hey! This just in folks. It’s not SUPPOSED to be easy. This isn’t the Acme Hardware Open where the winning score is 27-under par and the cut is at five-under. This isn’t some course where somebody hitting out of the rough can land a ball on the green and have it jack to a halt as though it landed on velcro. those four days. Instead of complaining, why don’t In the world of golf, this is the equivalent these whining pros follow the example of of Navy Seals training. It isn’t fun. It’s gruelformer PGA Tour star Bruce Lietzke, who ing. almost always took that week Leave the fun to the Waste Manoff and went fishing? If it’s agement Open. This tournatoo hard for you, then ment is about crowning a don’t play... Ah, but national champion. there’s the rub. The Now my colleague, prize is too alluring. Mr. Thomas “Shank” Forget the money Gorman, is arguing that and the trophy. Winthe USGA does not set up ning the U.S. Open brings a fair test of golf. And he is by Tim Geary immortality with it. absolutely correct. Well immortality is not given out cheaply. It is not a fair test. It is an unfair test beThe USGA wants the U.S. Open to idencause golf, at the highest level, should be tify the best player, to challenge the entire a test and as anyone who has ever played game of the world’s best players. To force this infernal game understands all too well, these swing machines to be able to think the words “fair” and “golf” have never cotheir way around the course instead of just habitated well. overpowering it the way Rory McIlroy deAnd the last time I checked, the condistroyed Quail Hollow last month. They want tions are the same for everyone, so if it’s inthe players to be able to take a body blow credibly difficult for the number 100-ranked and get back up and overcome. player in the world it’s also incredibly difficult Seldom does anyone win the U.S. Open for Lord McIlroy. with a score so far under par that the goSo I will pose this question to Mr. Gorphers are clapping. Tiger did it once. So did man. If the U.S. Open is such an unfair test Rory, but those were anomalies where rain of golf, why do so many people sign up had softened the course and two extraoreach year and try to qualify? Why do so dinary players were at the very top of their many of the world’s top professionals tee exceptional games. it up each year? Few are able to grasp that big trophy The U.S. Open is widely considered the without first spilling most prestigious title one can win. There’s a some blood. People reason why, when Rory’s life is over, that the don’t necessarily first paragraph of his obituary will list the U.S. win the U.S. Open Open title(s) and nowhere will you read that as much as survive he won the 2015 Wells Fargo.
Does the USGA create unfair golf course conditions for the US Open?
June April 2015 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 77
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