Golf PEI operates its own online and direct call reservation centre to book unforgettable stay & play packages and tee times at our member courses across the Island since 1989. Both local and travelling golfers have the unique ability to book both tee times and stay and play packages with one call or on our website at www.golfpei.ca. We provide the golfer the ability to choose to play one of our member courses and select one of our more than 30 accommodations partners. By booking with Golf PEI, you’ll receive the best value and service for your golf vacation.
Book online at www.golfpei.ca or by calling 1 866 GOLF-PEI (465-3734) today.
Pinehurst • Southern Pines • Aberdeen Pinehurst • Southern Pines • Aberdeen
You won’t find golf like this anywhere.
Dormie Club - A Coore & Crenshaw Design Top 100 in America
You won’t find golf like this anywhere. Prime Inside Left
National GC - A Private Jack Nicklaus Design
SandhillsGolf SandhillsGolf Talamore Resort - A Rees Jones Design
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courses anyTop other golf destination in half theofcountry and is tures some ofthan the greatest golf100 in the country. In fact, over our 40 area courses in America have been ranked 4 starsas or the higher by theof 2012 Golf Digest Best Places to Play Guide . widely known Home American Golf. have been ranked 4 stars or higher by the 2012 Golf Digest Best Places to Play Guide .
40+ Golf Courses
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Unrivaled Tradition
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All-Inclusive Pricing
You simply will not find a better golf destination than the famed Sandhills. This year,
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Customized Trips
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PGA Pros on Staff Customized Trips
3 Rounds / 2 Nights - $229 Per Person
friends will talk about for years to come.
Tobacco Road Golf & Travel is proud to help you plan your Play 1 round at Tobacco Road, and 2 rounds at your choice of any 2 of the following courses: plan your golf vacation package. Dormie Club, National Golf Club or Talamore Resort Course. Dr. 1 Royal Troon 28374 Pinehurst, NC
TobaccoRoad Village of Pinehurst
• Southern Pines
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877) 284-3762 Quotes & Reservations:(RoadTravel.com www.Tobacco Golf & Travel
Special valid for Sunday-Thursday play only, 6/16/13 - 9/12/13. Rate is based on quad occupancy and includes all golf, cart fees, room and tax.
Calloror Click forGolf Golf Planner & Custom Quotes! Call Click for our Vacation Planner & Custom Quotes Toll Free: (877) 284-3762 | www.TobaccoRoadTravel.com Toll Free: (877) 284-3762 | www.TobaccoRoadTravel.com
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Golf & Travel
Dormie Club - A Coore & Crenshaw Design Dormie Club - A Coore & Crenshaw Design Top 100 in America Top 100 in America
National GC - A Private Jack Nicklaus Design
Prime Inside Rear Cover Talamore Resort - A Rees Jones Design
Tobacco Road Golf Club - A Mike Strantz Design Top 100 in America
Spring and Summer Golf Vacation Packages
Summer Weekday Special!
Choose from one of our seasonal golf packages or customize your own package. Treat yourself to a golf experience at courses such as:
3 Rounds / 2 Nights - $229 Per Person
Play 1 round at Tobacco Road, and 2 rounds at your choice of any 2 of the following courses: Pinehurst Resort has hosted the 1999 and 2005 US Opens Pinehurst No. 1,3,5, and 8 Dormie Club, National Golf Club or Talamore Resort Course. and is host to the 2014 Men’s and Women’s US Opens Special valid for Sunday-Thursday play only, 6/16/13 - 9/12/13. Rate is based on quad occupancy and includes all golf, cart fees, room and tax.
Dr. 1 Royal Troon 28374 Pinehurst, NC
TobaccoRoad Village of Pinehurst
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Ranked the 50th best golf course in the world in Golf Course Architecture Magazine and rated Top 100 Golf America& in both Golf Magazine and Golf Digest Call or Click forCourses Golf in Planner Custom Quotes!
Tobacco Road Golf Club
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Mid Pines Golf Club
Classic Donald Ross design was rated the Best U.S Restoration of The Year 2013 by Golf Magazine
Pine Needles Golf Club
Hosted the 1996, 2001, and 2007 US Women’s Open Championships and is ranked as the No. 3 course in North Carolina by Golfweek
Or choose from among any of our other 30+ highly-rated golf courses in the Village of Pinehurst area, plus a variety of hotel and executive condo options. Plan now for your 2014 golf vacation package and let the experience of our PGA Professionals help you plan a golf trip you and your friends will talk about for years to come. March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 5
The Best Value For Your Destination Golf Experience! 30 Minutes from Providence & Worcester... 50 Minutes from Boston & Hartford...
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Granite Links
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From the Editor
I
t is the beginning of our 7th year at New England Golf Monthly. It is hard to believe but it seems like yesterday that we were publishing our first issue in spring of 2008 and launching at the National Golf Expo in Boston. Once again this year we launch our season the first week of March at Seaport World Trade Center in Boston at this years National Golf Expo. It promises to be a great event and with the return of Michael Breed from the Golf Channel’s Golf Fix once again, it will be a great show.
To put things in prospective with time, it was spring 2008 when Tiger Woods won his last major, the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. In December I visited Torrey Pines and saw a memorial of that special day when he battled Rocco Mediate on Monday in a playoff to capture his 14th major victory. Tiger fought back from a 5 stroke deficit in the final round on a bad knee and was faced with a very difficult birdie put on 18 to force the tie with Rocco, the rest was history. Since the injury in 2008 Tiger has won 14 times on the tour but no majors. I think the numbers may be in line for Tiger, 14 majors, 14 wins since the last major and we are in 2014, could this be the year? We are putting a new look on our first edition of 2014. This first issue yearly will be the Annual New England Golf Buyers Guide, a comprehensive issue of all things golf in New England each season. It will be a perfect bound edition with an upgraded design and be a season long handbook on the game with travel, fashion, style, legends of the game, public and private courses, instruction, equipment reviews and all the professional and amateur tournaments in the region. Each year the Annual Guide will be available at New England golf shows and all season long at golf shops and pro shops throughout New England. While winter has entrenched us in snow and cold, it will not be long before the green grass of spring will be showing through all of this. At this years PGA Show in Orlando there was lot optimism about the season. We are looking forward once again to bringing the very best in golf news and features to you once again this year. I hope you enjoy our new season guide, play well and enjoy. See you on The Tee,
Timothy R. Branco Editor/ Publisher
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New England Golf Monthly
13
Travel 13
Katharine Dyson / Where to Go
19
Couple of Travelers / What to Bring
Fashion & Style 22
Elle Brec / 2014 The Season of Colors
Public & Private Golf 30
Elisa Gaudet / Great 19th Holes in the Northeast
32
T.R. Branco / New England Golf Trends 2014
Cape Cod Golf 44
Leigh MacKay / Cape & Island Golf
Legends of The Game
22
49
Leigh MacKay / New England Celebrity Golfers
53
John Molori / Hanging 10 With Boston’s Best
Golf Expo’s New England 57
National Golf Expo Boston
61
Maine & Connecticut Golf Expos
Tournaments & Competitions 62
Contents
53
Jeff Palopoli / The Fed Ex Cup Race
63
Ken Dennis / PGA Tour Gallery
68
Steve Riggs / Team New England on The Tours
70
Ben Larsen / New England Amateur Golf
Equipment Reviews 88
Ed Travis / What’s New From the PGA Show
Download Our FREE Course Finder & GPS App & Register to Win FREE rounds, equipment, apparel, vacations & more all season long!
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www.OceanCityGolf.com (800) 4-OC-GOLF
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 sWeekend $158 s - $192
“Great Golf is Just the Beginning” Ocean City, Maryland
THE PERFECT LIFE //
by Katherine Dyson
Great Bucket List Golf Destinations
You’re planning that golf getaway but where to go? For those who feel sleeping is a waste of time, there are round-the-clock casino resorts or let’s face it. You want to play 36 or more holes each day and get enough ZZZs to do it all over again. Give you good golf, a sports bar and a comfy bed and you’re good to go. Then there are grand resorts with all kinds of perks and extras like spas, mega pools and tennis. Here are our picks. St. Andrew’s, Scotland
NORTHEAST • Crystal Springs Golf Resort, less than an hour from Manhattan in Hamburg, New Jersey, has a golf course for every day of the week designed by George Fazio, Roger Rulewich and RT Jones Jr., along with the David Leadbetter Academy, tennis, water park and two spas. Accommodations include rental homes and hotels. • The Equinox in the picture-perfect village of Manchester, Vermont, offers golf on a hilly, scenic track designed by Walter Travis in 1926. Off course grab some specialized expertise at the Orvis Fly Fishing and Shooting schools as well as the LandRover Experience Driving School and grab some pampering at the spa. • Foxwoods Resort & Casino is a wow for “A” types. Owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Foxwoods has six casinos, 38 restaurants, and four hotels. Play golf on Lake of Isles’ stunning Rees Jones-designed courses, North and South, winding through 900 acres of wooded Connecticut countryside and around a lake. There is also an extensive practice facility and the Troon Golf Academy.
• The Sagamore in Bolton Landing, New York, overlooks Lake George, its grand old hotel evoking the Great Gatsby era. Play the historic Donald Ross course, enjoy a spa treatment and lounge by the lakeside pool. Stay in the hotel or in one of the The Lodges that come with fireplaces, kitchens and balconies. • Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Club, Galloway, New Jersey, founded as a gentleman’s club in 1914 and visited by presidents and golfing greats, is blessed with a classic Donald Ross design course, the Bay, stretching out to the wetlands with Atlantic City’s skyline in the distance. Another good choice, The Pines, was constructed in 1927.
Lake of Isles Foxwoods Resort & Casino
13
• Turning Stone Resort Casino rising out of the rural landscape east of Syracuse, New York, delivers round-the-clock action with three highly-rated courses Kaluhyat, Shenendoah, and Atunyote, venue for past PGA Tour events and the sweet par 3 Sandstone Hollow. Turning Stone has two spas, several dining venues and accommodations in the Tower and the quietly elegant Lodge.
MID-ATLANTIC • Ocean City is the newest destination to be added to the mid-Atlantic region. Ocean City, which has always been a great family vacation spot has now added wonderful golf facilities and great packaged golf trips to the mix. With over 25 courses to choose from designed by legends in
The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, has been welcoming guests for more than 100 years and is the former haunt of “Slammin” Sam Snead who lived and worked here for more the 60 years. Among the three celebrated courses are the famed Old White TPC, The Greenbrier and The Meadows. Adding to the upscale ambiance is a classy casino for resort guests and members, a spa, sporting clays, tennis and fishing. • Kingsmill on the James, Williamsburg, Virginia, has three superb tracks including The River by Pete Dye, the Woods Course by Curtis Strange and Tom Clark and the Plantation by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay. There is also the par 3, nine-hole Bray Course especially popular with families, a marina, tennis and all kinds of water toys,
Ocean City
the game it is fast becoming a must play destination. Glen Riddle’s Man O’ War and War Admiral built in 2006 are a must play. • Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia is not only a rich repository of history and culture, it is also a coveted golfing venue. The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club’s Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones in 1963 and the 9-hole Spotswood short course, are historic treasures while the Green Course treats golfers to a more modern layout designed by Rees Jones. Stay in a local inn or an antique village home and learn how life evolved during Colonial days. •
Colonial Williamsburg
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• Myrtle Beach running along the white sandy coast of North and South Carolina has close to 100 courses, hundreds of rental condos, miles of shopping outlets and so many places to eat and drink, you could go out every night for a year and still not hit them all. Choose the brash and lively “Grand Strand” in the middle; the quieter low-key Brunswick Islands, to the north or go south to Murrell’s Inlet, home of a Tom Fazio TPC course, Pawley’s Island and Litchfield Beach where life is more like the “Shag”— a smooth, Low Country dance. • Pinehurst in North Carolina dating from 1895 has more than 40 courses including the eight top tracks at the Pinehurst Resort and the recently restored Donald Ross-design No. 2, the venue for both the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open. Stay in the reigning “Grand Dame” Carolina Hotel or book into the historic Holly (1895), the Manor or one of the villas. Save time for the Spa and other leisure pursuits like croquet and lawn bowling.
The Greenbrier
SOUTH • Hammock Beach Resort & Spa on the east coast of Florida is a Salamander Grand Golf Resort with two superb and very different courses: The Ocean Course designed by Jack Nicklaus and The Conservatory, a Tom Watson Signature Course. Stay in high-rise condos and villas and have fun with a boatload of activities and facilities including a spa, beach, tennis, kids club and several pools—very user-friendly for families.
Pinehurst
• Innisbrook Resort, Palm Harbor, Florida, just north of Tampa, was designed for golf with four highly rated courses: North, South, Island and Copperhead, venue for the PGA Tour Transition Championship. Book into one of the well-appointed condos and unwind in the Indaba Spa and pools. For killer steaks, dine in Packard’s and for a change of pace, hit the tennis courts. • Kiawah Island in South Carolina near Charleston, delivers an over-the-top resort experience with five courses that wind through an incredible landscape of marshes, tidal creeks, live oaks, beaches and wildlife. Kiawah’s courses come with pedigrees from designers like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Gary Player and Clyde Johnston. One of the most uber-lux resorts in the south, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, extends a low-key sense of privilege while the courses have hosted prestigious events like the Ryder Cup and PGA Tournament. • Mission Inn Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills near Orlando, Florida, appeals to those looking to ratchet back to a quieter, “Old Florida”-like ambiance in a charming old Spanish-style inn. Tee up at El Campeon one of the oldest courses in Florida dating back to 1917 and untypically hilly for Florida and Las Colinas (The Hills) designed by Gary Koch (1992) featuring more modern elements.
Hammock Beach Resort & Spa There are 190 comfortable guest rooms as well as a pool, billiards and game room, spa, fitness center, marina, tennis and trap and skeet range. • PGA Village, Port St. Lucie, Florida, is the place to hone your game with a 35-acre Learning Center, a six-hole short course and three designer courses: Wanamaker and Ryder courses by Tom Fazio and the Pete Dye links-style track. Practice, learn and play all day long and visit the on-site Historical Center loaded with memorabilia from golfing greats, a golf library and major trophies. • PGA Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, is all about golf, golf, golf with five muscular courses: The Champion, venue for The Honda Classic, The Fazio (formerly the Haig redesigned by Tom Fazio), The Palmer, The Squire and the Estates. After a $100 million renovation, the resort
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Casino Del Sol
has emerged with a more contemporary flair accented by red, ochres and black. There is a huge lobby bar buzzing with energy, a piano bar, an award-winning Spa and an elegant zero-entry garden pool. • Primland, a 12,000-acre playground in southwestern Virginia, is one of the few places where easy access does not sabotage staggering scenery. Rising 3,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland is a rare find for those who fish for trout and bass, hunt, horseback ride, hike and play golf. At night fall asleep in piles of luxury in your over-the-top cottage or suite. In addition to a Donald Steel-designed course running atop the mountains where nature has helped call the shots, there is a spa, fitness center and stellar Observatory Dome.
players come for advance sports instruction and a full academic program.
WEST • Casino del Sol, Tucson, Arizona, owned and operated by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe sends out a lot of good vibes from the smartly decorated rooms and casino to the new Sewailo golf course designed by Notah Begay III with architect Ty Butler and the tribe. Nearby are other fine tracks including the 27-hole Arnold Palmer Signature course at
• Reynolds Plantation, Greensboro, Georgia, strung along Lake Oconee has five highly-rated tracks by Bob Cupp, Rees Jones, Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye plus the private Creek Club and The Taylor Kingdom at the Reynolds Golf Academy. At Reynolds it’s all about savoring an incredible setting of lakes, trees and nature. Check into the Ritz-Carlton Lodge and enjoy garden pools, fitness center, spa, water sports, and tennis,
Starr Pass, Tubac Golf Resort, venue for the film “Tin Cup, ” Dove Mountain’s three nines where Sandestin the pros play and The Gallery Golf Club, also at Dove Mountain..
• Saddlebrook Resort & Spa in Wesley Chapel near Tampa, Florida, attracts golfing groups as well as families and leisure guests. Well-appointed, two-story condos are arranged around a car-free “walking village” with a lovely garden pool, restaurants and fitness center. The Saddlebrook Golf Course winds through stands of cypress and moss-draped oaks while The Palmer is a tough but fair test with some elevations. There are 45 tennis courts, an extensive practice facility, the Saddlebrook Golf Academy and the Preparatory School where young golfers and tennis
• CordeValle, a Rosewood resort south of San Francisco, excels in personal service and low-key luxury. With just 45 rooms terraced up the hills overlooking the Santa Cruz Mountains, CordeValle appeals to high-end golfers as well as couples looking for romantic getaways. Set on close to 1700 acres, CordeValle’s scenic RT Jones Jr. course rolls through canyons and hillsides planted with sycamores and oaks while water comes into play on a handful of holes. Other facilities include an 85-acre vineyard and winery, clubhouse, fitness center, restaurants and Sense, a Rosewood Spa.
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Corde Valle
• The Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, California, has been going strong since 1965 when it hosted screen icons like Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope. Now it’s better than ever after the completion of golf course renovations by the design team of Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate on both the Champions and Legends Courses. Rooms and suites are situated in two-story Spanish-colonialstyle buildings oriented to the golf courses, gardens, spa, Chopra Center and tennis complex. • Palm Springs tucked into California’s Coachella Valley has long been a fashionable escape for celebs from LA and it still is. But today, one big reason to come here is golf with more than 100 fine tracks, well-watered swaths of lush green grass laid over the dry desert floor punctuated by fan palms and misty mountain vistas that ring the valley. With day-after-day of sunshine, golfers play here year round at courses like Marriott Desert Springs, SilverRock, Indian Wells Golf Resort’s two tracks, La Quinta and PGA West’s five public tracks by Dye, Palmer, Norman and Nicklaus. Among the many toney places to stay are the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells, La Quinta Resort and Renaissance Esmeralda Resort. • Scottsdale, Arizona, with annual temperatures averaging 72.6 degrees, more than 330 days of sunshine each year, and close to 200 courses is a golfing mecca. Tee up at top notch desert tracks like The Boulders two courses, North and South, Eagle Mountain, The Raven at South Mountain, Grayhawk Golf Club and the new Ambiante Golf Course at the J.W. Marriott Camelback Inn Resort. At the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, an elegant Spanish-style property, enjoy golf on their TPC’s Stadium and Champions Courses and unwind with a treatment at the Well & Being at Willow Stream Spa.
Algarve, Portugal other great plays like Kings Barns, Turnberry, Carnoustie, Macrihanish and Gleneagles. Bonnie Wee Golf customizes tours in Scotland as well as Ireland. The company also arranges Executive Heligolf trips and special perks like a Bonnie Wee Piper. The Algarve
• Ryder Cup: This is the year of the Ryder Cup, so why not go over “The “Pond” to Gleneagles. Premier Golf, the only licensed distributor of Ryder Cup travel, is offering several packages to make that all happen. • Ireland possesses more than one-third of the windswept challenging seaside links courses in the world, a bonanza for those who love golf. Play Lahinch in County Clare, one of the world’s finest and oldest links course, Ballybunion in County Kerry, Connemara in Galway and newer tracks with old souls like Greg Norman’s Doonbeg and the dramatic Old Head stretching out into the ocean. Rental clubs are avail-
INTERNATIONAL • The Algarve, a sunny temperate region along Portugal’s southern coast is home to more than 35 golf courses. Fly into Faro, check into one of the whitewashed villas or luxury hotels and immerse yourself in great golf including the courses at Vilamoura, Amendoeira, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo adjacent to Ria Formosa Natural Park. • Scotland continues to be on the “Bucket List” of golfers everywhere. If you go, we suggest you book with a Scottish tour operator like David Harris of Bonnie Wee Golf, who can help you get on the Old Course at St. Andrews as well as line up
Ireland able at most courses, but bring a few extra balls: golf balls in Ireland are pricey. Expect to walk. Although pull carts are available, many courses do not have motorized golf carts.
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Spend your day on the perfect course, not looking for it.
We match you with the your Custom golf experience. For free. Call 877-553-4653 to speak with your very own golf concierge Visit our website at www.golfme.com, email us at info@golfme.com
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Couple of Travelers //
by Alice and Danny Scott
Nobody Wants
Alphard Cart
Excess Baggage! Friends, lovers, and airlines agree - nobody wants excess baggage. Check the carrier’s website before flying, for the quantity, size and fees of luggage, then “carry on my wayward son”, as much as you can.
Take the largest carryon roller and tuck any zip lock bags with liquids in the outside pocket for ease through security. Transfer any cosmetics or your sip of choice, to travel bottles from Target. Inside, make sure you have the first day’s essentials in case your checked bag makes an unsuspected detour. This preparedness is insurance against bag loss. Keep electronics and valuables in the carryon so your video camera doesn’t remain in Spain like ours. Most airlines allow one carryon plus a personal item- make that a big shoulder bag or backpack so the laptop and/or purse can nest inside. The carryon doubles as an ottoman in the airport or in bulkhead seats after
takeoff to support your legs. Tip - Rub Vicks Vapor Rub on your feet and slip on cozy Kentwool socks for odorless, germfree, soft skin. On short trips or with savvy packing, all but clubs can be carried on. Lay out apparel and accessories by activity, such as 3 golf days in Scotland – Antigua lightweight and wrinkle free golf apparel is easy to mix and match colorful layers along with Cutter and Buck’s Dry Tec
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Performance pants for him and her. Adorn with just one versatile Nexbelt, the one without holes. www.nexbelt.com. It is so nice to have Sunice rain gear when a cloud opens up, along with a mighty GustBuster umbrella. For warmth, LegSkinz pull on and off under skorts as needed and Hot Hands ingratiate you to friends on nippy mornings. On the sunny side, a swimsuit and Letarte cover up ensure relaxation in upscale style at Casa De Campo. For dinner attire at the Greenbrier she packs a little black dress with heels as he dons the sports jacket boarding the plane, maybe securing first class, sometimes a reasonable upgrade if an extra bag check is included. Clubs then fly “free.” Of course Shipsticks and Fedex will cover the bag hassle for a little extra cash. Or visit Fairmont Hotels and Resorts as a President’s Club member and rentals are gratis! If you prefer your own clubs, they fit well in the six-pound Alphard Agile Stand bag or when on a road trip and you like to walk, consider their DUO CART Golf Bag & Push Cart In-One. www.AlphardGolf.com
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Pockets in both accommodate multiple gloves - Bionic gloves for when the “writers’ wrist” flares up, Glove It’s pretty patterns with matching ladies accessories and Footjoy rain gloves for both hands to keep a grip when wet. Take a dozen new balls and a Tin Cup Ball Marker for personalization. Teddy Roosevelt said, “Walk softly and carry a big stick!” He wasn’t talking about golf, but we are and the big sticks for us are Tour Edge XCG7 adjustable drivers. Shifting the weight in the club head creates greater stability and power. We let the big dogs hunt along with a mix of Ping and Tour Edge hybrids and irons. www.ping.com and www.touredge.com Walking softly is achieved by the latest creations from TRUE Linkswear, the most comfortable casual shoes started by PGA Pro Ryan Moore with growing success, now worn by Inbee Park, LPGA’s # 1 player. Competing in events worldwide, our handicaps are verified, so there is no sandbagging, BUT we always take a pair of Sandbagger sandals for her that eliminate
golfer tan lines and feel like playing barefoot as well as a pair of Sandbagger shoes in case of wet or cooler conditions because they have the prettiest styles in the industry. Both brands look great on and off the fairways. www.hersandbaggers.com and www.truelinkswear.com “Drive for show and putt for dough” is an old, yet questionable cliché. You can’t putt for dough if you are scrambling to the green. Know your yardage with Sky Caddie or Golf Buddy Voice range finders. They save us time with accurate, on the spot distances. Since the short game comprises 70% of scoring, the Scor 4161 wedges bridge gap differentials by pinpointing yardage. Perimeter weighting produces solid contact while the v-sole design controls in any turf condition. www. scorgolf.com We don’t want to resemble the Pillsbury Dough Boy, but the dough stays in our pocket with accuracy and confidence from our Prodigy Z and Commander Rife putters and the new putting aid that nips your yips – www.trainyouraim.com, all pleasing to the eye. Our eyes could not be more pleased than being able to watch the ball flight and read the greens while UV protected by Peak Vision’s revolutionary dual zone/zero distor-
tion lenses. Back on the market and partnering with Jack Nicklaus, the sunglasses are perfect for golf and everyday fashion. An upper gray zone highlights ball flight while the amber bottom distinguishes the grain and textures of the green. See www.rifegolf.com and www.peakvisionsports.com to become boss of the moss. Protect all your contents with the Sun Mountain Club Glider Travel Bag that pivots and stands when still. Insert the Bag Boy Backbone for maximum protection or try their T10 Hard Top Travel Bag. We take one of each. www. sunmountain.com www.bagboycompany.com Wherever/however you travel, don’t just take a vacation; let the vacation take you. Planning is important but flexibility and spontaneity add to the fun. The web is our world. Check the Conventions and Visitors bureau sites in most major cities for information on hotels, dining and activities. Ask locals when you arrive, where to go and what to do. Begin in France with a little “Bonjour.” Then “Merci“ goes a long way too. And remember the nicest thing to wear is your smile. Capture it on camera and share with friends. From sea to shining sea, rediscover the America we love and foreign countries that influence our nation. If you can’t go, then live vicariously through us each month in our New England Golf Monthly column.
March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 21
Good Looks on the Course //
by Elle Brec
Bright Fashion
Foresight for 2014
It was a bright, bold PGA Show in Orlando as new vibrant colors and patterns made their debut for the 2014 season. It isn’t that the sport is transforming, but the gentlemen and ladies playing are. While some choose to dress reserved, golfers are no longer restricted and have the freedom to don playful fun colors to illuminate the fairways. If you like the tropical weather, pair the new Polo collection of lime greens and Hawaiian prints with Maui Jim sunglasses reminiscent of the beautiful botanical gardens. It is given that Loudmouth designs are in your face, wham bam thank you ma’am with no gray area because you either love them or hate them. After perfecting the gray area, Travis Mathew is moving to color, incorporating Cali colors in their 2014 Huntington collection like the Ambrosio polo. Dunning Golf also eludes the classy look with a luxurious performance pima cotton, Ralph Dunning created his golf polos specifically with the golf swing in mind. PUMA obtains the low-down on what will be hot with younger golfers from Lexi and Rickie so they’re always setting trends and pushing the style edge. For the ladies, Lizzie Driver is spread their wings this year with their colorful birds of a feather collection.
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Maui Jim Maui Jim lenses enhance definition and depth perception to produce the clearest, crispest, most accurate views of the fairways and greens. Wow! Generally is the reaction to the significantly noticeable high quality lenses. Featuring a combination of three rare earth elements that produce true, vibrant colors with amazing brilliance. For golfers, sunglasses offer protection from wind, glare and UV protection that can damage eyes and skin. We recommend the HCL bronze lens the best providing an excellent contrast for the unforeseen breaks. MauiPure lens is ideal for the active lifestyle as it is the lightest weight choice for long days in the sun. Maui Jim announced the addition of PGA Professional and Golf Hall of Fame member Ernie Els to its team of ambassadors. With 70 wins, he is one of the most prolific golf tournament winners of his generation and the global reach of his victories is almost without parallel. Therefore, it is fitting Els will wear Maui Jim’s World Cup sunglasses, among other styles. “Long before I became an ambassador for Maui Jim,” says Els, “I was a customer who bought many pairs of their great sunglasses over the last several years.” A true partnership, the coming year, Maui Jim will assist Ernie with raising funds during The Els for Autism & Golf Challenge in Florida and South Africa.
Vintage is what’s hot right now. Holoholo meaning to “walk or travel for fun,” makes for the perfect companion for walking or traveling the links. With a modern twist on a retro design, the classic looks compliments a range of facial shapes. Upcountry Maui on the slopes of Haleakala, the town of Makawao is known for its thriving arts community. The Makawao modified, rectangular frame is hip, to complement a range of facial shapes and activities. The updated aviator has proven a superior choice for as it covers the complete periphery of the eye. All Maui Jim’s use patented PolarizedPlus2® lens technologies that eliminate 100 percent of UV rays and 99.9 percent of glare from above, below and behind each lens. Proprietary MauiGradient Lenses feature a darker coating at the top that gradually gets lighter moving down the lens. All sunglasses are treated with a clear shell anti-scratch and impact-resistant coating, so you don’t have to worry about them being ruined on the course or during your active lifestyle. Choose the best frame for your face and taste at www.mauijim. com. Mahalo!
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Chase54 Chase54 incorporates highly stretchable fabrics to ensure peak performance during the motion of the golf swing. State-of-the-art blends of cotton and technical fibers have a soft luxurious feel, moisture wicking properties at a price where no golf apparel brand can compare. The incredibly valuable polos include collar stays for finished look no matter how many times the shirt is worn. DryFuze Elite is made up of a unique coffee yarn and regular polyester blend, offering the fastest moisture wicking fabric on the market. The technology of the fabric rapidly pushes the sweat to the surface of the fabric, enabling it to dry quicker than an average wicking fabric. The use of coffee yarn also represses odors and protects against UV rays. Sorona, which is produced by DuPont, is made from corn and features an extremely soft hand and natural stain resistant properties. Fabrics that use Sorona are soft, strong and dry quickly, while also supporting the retention of the original shape of the garment. High Gauge Fabric is one of the lightest fabrics on the market today. It is a super fine polyester yarn mixed with 25 percent spandex, creating a light and stretchable fabric that allows a full range of motion. The quality of the production team behind Chase54 has deep roots in and strong connections to the apparel business with more than 30 years of experience and 400 million produced garments backing the brand. Shop at Chase54.com
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Alial Fital Alial Fital is perfect for golfers who want a pop of color without overdoing it. The soft cotton fabric makes it versatile for on or off the course. Completely made in the U.S.A., the National Park polo encompasses all the beauty of the American landscape with a ocean blue shirt and yellow sunrise, desert rock orange, and tan sand, and aqua blue sky. Other cool polo names include West Coast Ghost gray, Rhodes Rock, Isle of Skye, A Day in Paris, and Pienza a town in Tuscany with touchstone of Renaissance urbanism. A native New Englander Jim Renner has recently been announced as a brand ambassador, joining Bo Van Pelt. One day it hit Gibran
Hamden, CEO of Alial Fital, the person purchasing the most alial fital polos was a man named Robert Van Pelt, who he didn’t realize was PGA tour professional Bo. Proving the authenticity of the quality of the brand if PGA tour players voluntarily wear it. For golf darlings, the Oh! Darling polo is beautiful, with hot pink accents against a dark heather gray polo provides just enough hue for 18 holes. Or pair with a cardigan, jeans and heels for a night out with the girls. Another color we’re obsessed with right now is Olive like the B. Olively ¾ sleeve polo. It’s extremely versatile as it can tone down brighter colors such as magenta, electric purple, or aqua blue. www.alialfital.com
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ProQuip ProQuip USA based in Marblehead, MA is very enthusiastic about the product range in the 2014 Collection that made its debut at the PGA show. The offering includes state-of-the-art, quiet waterproof rain suits, stretchable Tourflex, lightweight windproofs, highly breathable, stretch, technical garments like the water repellent premium Lambswool and Merino knitwear. Amazingly, the knitwear is also machine-washable and dryer friendly, the first total easy care high quality knit of its kind. Purchase the knitwear with the Ouimet 100 logo as ProQuip is donating all profits from the sale of these sweaters and several other apparel items to the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund, which offers collegetuition help to young men and women who have worked at golf courses. The 100th anniversary of Francis Ouimet’s U.S. Open victory was just a few weeks ago and Peter Dalton, CEO of ProQuip, graduated from Boston College as a Ouimet scholar. The staple piece of the collection is the Trophy Suit, designed for the 2012 European Ryder Cup Team. ProQuip has been the official supplier more times than any other manufacturer in the world and will outfit its 20th team as the Preferred Supplier to the 2014 European Ryder Cup Team at Gleneagles, Scotland. The Sophie Ultralite is an evolution of the phenomenally popular Ultralite Tour. The award winning super soft fabric is waterproof, windproof, and lightweight. The first jacket with a detachable hood is available in four colors for ladies coral, bluebell, teal, and black. Stay dry and warm at proquipgolfusa.com
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USA THE PROQUIP 2014 COLLECTION
YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLAYING PARTNER PROQUIPGOLFUSA.COM HIGH PERFORMANCE RAIN & WIND GEAR TO HELP YOU CONQUER THE ELEMENTS
James Driscoll Trending on the PGA Tour
TrendyGolf.com
Becomes His Personal Fashion Advisor
James Driscoll, a Boston Native, has stormed the PGA Tour this year with a new wardrobe that speaks to the fashion minded golfer. With his head focused on a win and an eye on fashion, Driscoll has entered into a unique relationship with TRENDYGOLF.COM, the online destination for the top brands in golf fashion. Dressed in a variety of top labels that best meet his style and needs on tour that week, Driscoll remarks, “Getting to mix and match all the brands from day to day over the course of the season is a really cool opportunity.” Hand picked garments and thoughtfully styled looks will support James’ crusade to be a top player, turning heads for both his performance and his inspiring fashion sense. “Essentially, TrendyGolf is my personal stylist and helps to make certain I have the same sense of confidence inside the ropes that I get off the course when I wear clothes that look great and fit well” says Driscoll. A true athlete, Driscoll effortlessly wears the latest trends with confidence. An assortment of tailored clothing and well styled looks complements his great physique.
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In the real world, men don’t dress head to toe in one brand each time they play. For Driscoll, the same philosophy holds true; he can wear what feels good, what performs best in that week’s climate, and what best suits his mood Golfers who are inspired by Driscoll’s new look can benefit by using TRENDYGOLF as a fashion advisor. The latest styles are available online, and with the help of the TG Stylists, a confident and great fitting look can be on your doorstep in 24 hours. A strong belief that when a player dresses well they will ultimately play better, TRENDYGOLF is confident that this refreshing approach to dressing for the sport will help support Driscoll’s goal to win this season. Team #TGDRIZZ virtually follows Driscoll on tour, updating followers about what the pro is wearing and how he is feeling each week. For more information about James Driscoll and to shop his looks, please visit TRENDYGOLF.COM. Follow: @trendygolf @jdriscollpga #TGDrizz for weekly updates.
SPRING 2014
ARMANI EA7 : CHERVO : DUCA DEL COSMA : DUNNING : ECCO : GABICCI G A LV I N G R E E N : G / F O R E : G O L F I N O : H U G O B O S S : J . L I N D E B E R G : LY L E & S C O T T NEBULONI : ORIGINAL PENGUIN : PORSCHE DESIGN SPORT : PUMA SPORTLUX RALPH LAUREN RLX : TOM MORRIS : VICTORINOX : adidas STELLA MCCARTNEY
Two Good Rounds // By Elisa Gaudet
Best 19th Hole Bars and Grill Rooms
in the Northeast USA
To answer the age old golf question of the best 19th hole locations I decided to go to the people. I asked the golfers who live and play golf in the northeast. They were all asked two questions. What characteristics make a great 19th hole? What is your favorite 19th hole and why? For me the 2C’s are fundamental – Camaraderie & Cocktails. I have found over the years that camaraderie can occur before, during and after the cocktails and you may not even have known the person prior to going into the clubhouse. You just bonded, if even just for an hour, after a round of golf. Perhaps you were visiting a course or it is your home course. The beauty of the 19th hole is connecting with people and sharing stories with the common glue being our love of golf.
Hopyard
Tim B, MA with views of Dear Island, Boston Harbor and the skyline of Beantown home of the World Champion Boston Red Sox.
Peter R, Rhode Island Granite Links Tavern “The Bar and Restaurant at Granite Links at Quarry Hills in Quincy, MA is one of the most spectacular spots in New England to enjoy lunch, dinner or just a few cocktails. The view of Boston Harbor and the city skyline may be the best in region. The staff is what makes the place even better as they make you feel at home and know how to make a great drink” Named #7 in “The 19 Best 19th Holes in Golf in the U.S” By SI Golf. Granite Links Golf Club sits just outside of Boston in Quincy MA. The facility is 27 holes of great golf
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“On The Rocks at the Fox Hopyard in East Haddam, CT may be one of the most relaxing 19th holes anywhere in New England. The majestic clubhouse with a large wrap around covered porch overlooking the courses finishing holes and allows you to reflect on your finish while watching others battle par 5- 550 yard 18th hole guarded by water to the right.” A great bar, excellent staff and great appetizers to boot.” Fox Hopyard Golf Club completes the Triple Crown for Bill Sandri, the proprietor of Crumpin- Fox Club in Bernardston, Massachusetts and Fox Hollow Golf Club in the Tampa, Florida area, both award winning golf courses. Built by the Roger Rulewich Group, which includes former design and construction staff of Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
a drink and be with friends – a place like Cheers where everybody knows your name.”
The Tap Room at Skytop
Paul G, PA “The bar has to have some character and the bartender or wait staff has to have personality. I like it when the facility has something special but really the attitude of the staff makes it. Drinks are drinks and you can buy booze anywhere. My favorite is the Tap room at Skytop because it has an old world feel to it, very cozy with character and great staff.” Skytop in the Poconos is on 5,500 acres of natural wonder. This setting is right out of a storybook and steeped in old-world charm that extends beyond the Lodge to the Tap room. The views from the Lakeview Restaurant are stunning as well you have a view from the Fairview Bar which overlooks the first hole of Skytop’s 6,656 yards golf course..
Hampshire Country Club is a private club in Mamaroneck, NY with a great golf course. Water comes into play on seven holes, most notably on their signature finishing hole, a 367-yard, par 4, whose green is protected on the right by a two-tiered pond and waterfall. (www.hampshireclub.com)
Diane C, NY “I like going to a bar after playing golf where everyone is celebrating after the round and just throw back a few cocktails with friends and family. My favorite grill room and course is where I grew up the Binghamton Country Club.” The golf course at The Binghamton Country Club is truly a hidden gem. Designed and built by the famed A.W. Tillinghast beginning in 1921, the course takes the player on a tour of the beautiful hillside north of the Susquehanna River in Endwell, NY. Tillinghast also designed other well-known courses such as Winged Foot, Baltustrol, San Francisco Golf Club, and Bethpage Black. (www.binghamtoncountryclub.com)
Leo G, MA
David K, NY “I don’t play much golf but I really liked the bar at Dellwood when I went.” Paramount Country Club (formerly Dellwood Country Club) Nestled in the heart of Rockland County, Paramount Country Club is a private club that boasts a world famous A. W. Tillinghast designed 18-hole Par 70 championship golf course.
Mike C, FL
Hampshire Bar “It is all about the atmosphere in a great grill room. I like a place where I can chill out, have
Marlborough “I like a 19th hole that is like a sports bar with TV’s so I can catch up on all the Boston sports after a round it also has to have a great burger and good beer. My favorite for this is the Marlborough Country Club” Marlborough Country Club is a private golf course that accommodates public play on Mondays and Tuesdays. The back nine was designed and built by Wayne E. Styles in 1922. In 1970, the course was expanded with another nine holes, now the front nine, by Geoffrey Cornish. The course is a par 71 men 72 women. (www.marlboroughcc.com)
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Public & Private Golf In New England //
by Timothy Branco
A New Vision
Newport National GC
For an Old Game
New England Golf finds its beginnings dating back to the turn of the century in the late 1800’s with The Country Club in Brookline and Newport Country Club as two of the five founding members of the USGA. In 1900 there were less than 3000 golfers in the U.S. and 80% of them were in the Northeast. In the early 1900’s golf courses were built as private clubs for privileged classes to enjoy the sport of kings. There were literally no public access facilities for others to learn and enjoy the game. In 1920 the cost of membership (equated per round played) at a private club was $47.00. The average salary of an American worker was only $25.00 per week. Three major periods in golf history has the most significant effect on the evolution of the game in New England and throughout the U.S. The 1920’s lead to rapid construction of private courses as golf became very popular with the wealthy, it was a game and a lifestyle that was all the rage. New courses and opulent clubhouses were built throughout New England and a new industry began to flourish. In the 1960’s municipal and public golf course development offered access to the game to the newly established middle class. Course architects, like Ross and Cornish designed and built more golf courses than any period in the history of the game from 1960 to 1975. In the late1980’s the “Tiger Boom” created
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a golf frenzy never seen before in the game as the sport exploded in popularity throughout the U.S. and the world. The industry skyrocketed its way to a major market sector industry with new high tech equipment, balls, fashion and facilities. Newer courses built by modern day course designs became elaborate, expensive to build and
The Links at Outlook cost much more to maintain. These new designs have ultimately made the game became much more difficult to play for the average golfer. Golf course construction cost has soared in the last 30 years from an average of $250,000 per course in 1970 to over 7million today. In 1920 the average cost for construction of a golf course and clubhouse was $5000.00 and
yearly maintenance ran at about $1000.00 In the last decade we have seen both public and private golf course closings burdened by debt and declining revenues. While much in golf has changed in the last 100 years one thing has not, the cost of an average round of golf is much the same as it was in 1920, $47.00. We are fortunate in New England to have some of the finest old courses in the country bal-
and grow. We are in a market driven economy where almost every golfer in today’s marketplace is concerned with value, time and quality. The challenge moving forward to attract more players to the game by offering more diverse opportunities to experience golf through flexible playing options at all age levels. Public golf facilities have had it somewhat easier in this market by their ability to offer discounted
Lebaron Hills CC anced by fantastic new facilities in both the public and private sector. There are over 1000 courses in our region of which nearly 30% are private and 70% that are public access and resort courses. New England golfers are a hardy bunch and pride themselves as all season and all weather players. The National Golf Foundation statistics show the northeast sector of the U.S. with one of the highest percentage of golfers anywhere in the country. Reaching out to these golfers has become the challenge to many facilities throughout the region. Golf in New England will be faced with new initiatives in both public and private course that will require modifications in business and operational models. Golf today has become a hospitality industry and in the hospitality industry there is no survival without customers. Empty hotel rooms equate, the same as empty golf courses, expenses are a constant. Golf courses, both public and private, need to focus on attracting new business and maintain present customers and members. Understanding market metrics is key for every facility that expects to sustain
fees during slower periods and creating open events and tournaments for all levels of players. In the private club sector it has been much more challenging with declining membership and less spending by present members. The days of the waiting list have long since ended for almost all private clubs. The new focus of private clubs is to open their doors and welcome prospective members and create new flexible membership opportunities for all categories of members. Private clubs also need to market for the first time and reach out to prospective members. Private golf course member marketing is complex and takes extensive multi media management skills to attain consistent results and build a database of golfers interested in their facility. For all of us the job moving forward is to grow the game. We need to all become patrons of the cause to bring the game to all generations and give the gift of golf to those we love. Golf is a game for life and those who are brought into the game will support it and pass it on for generations to come.
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Historic Fall River Country Club:
Come Play, Relax and Entertain By Steve Riggs
The history of Fall River Country Club is as rich as the game of golf itself. Originally a historic 9 hole layout, it was expanded to 18 in 1975. It is considered one of the best layouts in New England by some of golf’s most famous and legendary players, including Harry Vardon, Francis Ouimet and Bobby Jones to name just a few. In fact many players would stop to play Fall River CC on their way to the U.S.Open Championships in Newport and in Boston in the early years of the game in New England. The famed 9 holes underwent a full course augmentation to 18 holes by the golf architectural firm of Cornish and Robinson opening in 1975. The original 9 is part of this magnificent venue situated along the banks of the Taunton River. Players face a true test of golf with undulating fairways that meander through some of the most beautiful vistas to be found anywhere in New England. The course can be stretched to 6300 yards from the tips. A par 70 layout from all three tee boxes guarantees every club in the bag will be used regardless of skill level to navigate this historic gem of New England golf. The original his-
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toric nine holes are woven into the fabric of FRCC with those holes being 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 13 and 14. A welcoming membership and beautiful club house offers members and guests a wonderful New England country club experience with a full service restaurant that presents 8 first class menu offerings including; Buffet Dinner, Business Meeting, Hors D’oeuvres, Repast, Station, White Glove Dinner Service and Brunch Menus. A staff with decades of experience caters this active club membership. Whether a wedding, business meeting, golf outing, family reunion or private party the staff at FRCC is graciously waiting to serve.
Play Where Legends Played
Several extremely affordable Membership packages are now available for the 2014 season. Single memberships at only $2,595, senior at $2395, and family memberships are only $4,240. New Categories have been created for young adults 19-26 only $1,295 and 27-35 just $1,845. Food minimums are waived on new members for the first 6 months. For membership contact the FRCC at 508-678-9374 or Jim Downs at 401-316-6763 or email upsidedown1@msn.com.
This program is designed to give prospective members a chance to sample the ambiance that is Fall River County Club. Golfers are welcome with rates that include Green Fees and Carts for only $55. Stay after your round and enjoy a great lunch in one of golf’s most scenic clubhouses in the region. Contact Head Pro Ben Kilborn for tee times on the 2014 “Member for a Day” Program at 508-677-9828 or proshop@fallrivercc.com
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Membership at One Low Price to July 2015 Segregansett Country Club offers innovating 2014-2015 membership special and continues its “Member for a Day” Program through the year in 2014. If you are a golfer and you love the game then finding the perfect place to hang your spikes is sometimes one of the most difficult decisions to make. Today players who enjoy private club membership have a multitude of choices with so many private clubs looking for members. Lets face it if your joining a private club then you are obviously looking to play more golf, so choose to play on a great golf course. Segregansett Country Club has a rich history dating back to 1893 and is the fourth oldest established golf club in Massachusetts. The original 9-hole course was re-designed to its present 18-hole layout by Geoffrey Cornish in the 70’s. The course is just less than 6700 yards and is a par 72 rated 73.3 at a slope of 133 from the blue tees.
Segregansett is a players club with a wonderful layout a range and also a short game practice facility. There is pro shop a full clubhouse with locker rooms, saunas and a gym for members. There is also a full service restaurant and function facility with a great outdoor deck and dinning area overlooking the course. The staff is friendly and helpful as are the members at the club. There is never a problem finding a game or getting out to play, and there are plenty of club run tournaments for all levels of players. Through creative programs Segregansett Country Club located in Taunton, Massachusetts has launched a series of programs to allow golfers value based membership at their club for new members to play from March 2014 to July in 2015 at one fixed member rate.
“New Member Program is only Available for a Limited Time” Join Now to be Locked in for Golf Until June 2015 Call Segregansett CC at 508-824-9110
New Membership Special for 2014-2015 Single $2950 March 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015 Family $3200 March 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015 Young Adult 21-29 $1500 March 1,2014 - June 30, 2015 Mid Adult 30-35 $2100 March1,2014 - June 30,2015
Member For a Day Pricing | $40 Weekdays | $50 Weekends Call Pro Shop for Tee Times @ 508-824-9144
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Drop In For The Best Golf in Southern New England Beginning March 1st new members can join the club for $2950.00 that would cover their membership fee the full year in 2014 and to July 1st in 2015. Aside from being the best deal in golf in the region for a private club member the new members on this program are exempt from monthly assessment fees of $40.00 and only are required to pay monthly food minimum of $55.00, the MGA handicap fee of $35.00 yearly and locker fee of $35.00 yearly. For those joining in March this program will provide 16 months of golf for less than $175.00 average monthly cost. In addition there is no mandatory cart fees and players can walk /carry with
no restrictions. There are no playing restrictions as part of this program; it is for a single full membership. Segregansett is also offering a full Family Membership for $3200.00 and new levels of Young Adult Memberships, 21-29 at $1500.00 and 3035 at $2100.00 that offer full playing privileges. Segregansett will continue to offer its “ Member for a Day� program, which will allow single players, groups and families to enjoy the club for a day and meet some of the members and the staff. Weekday tee times are available for only $40.00 with a cart and $50.00 weekends. The program will be extended throughout the 2014 season.
mynegm.com/tauntongolf
For more information on memberships contact Gary Palmer at gary153@verizon.net or call @ 508-942-5873 or call the main office at the club at 508-824-9110
For tee-times contact Rob Baxter at 508-824-9144
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IT’S ALL FREE! Find & Contact A Course Near You… Play the Course w/ GPS, Scoring & Stats… Share Your Score on Social Media… Register to Win Rounds, Equipment, Apparel & More… Read News & Magazines, Watch Video Tips, Find Events…
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Come Home to Allendale www.allendalecc.net
2014 Membership Specials Afternoon Play – Single $1,700.00 Afternoon Play – Family (Couples) $2,600.00 Intermediate (19-30) $1,890.00 Full Memberships Family Single Weekday Intermediate Plus (31-39)
Member for a Day $55 with Carts Call Pro Shop for details 508/992-8682 5 Rounds for the Price of 4 Only $225.00 includes a bag of Range Balls (May be applied to 2014 Membership) *Limited Availability for Golf Outings and Small Groups
Allendale Country Club 1047 Allen St. North Dartmouth, 02747
508-992-8682 | AllendaleCC.net March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 39
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PLAY THE STERLING GOLF
SUPER SIX IN 2014 Tee-times, Specials, Events & More at SterlingGolf.com
Rockland Golf Course
18 Holes – one of the longest par 3 courses in America Newly renovated Function Room, Sports Bar & Grill 781-871-0480 | 276 Plain St., Rockland, MA
Norwood Country Club
18 Hole Course & Lighted Driving Range 781-769-5880 | 400 Providence Hwy. Norwood MA
Newton Commonwealth Golf Course 18 Hole Donald Ross Course 617-630-1971 | 212 Kenrick St. Newton, MA
Chelmsford Country Club
9 Hole Course - Practice Range, Function Hall & Lounge 978-256-1818 | 66 Park Rd. Chelmsford, MA
Maynard Golf Course
9 Hole Course - formerly Maynard CC, Function Hall & Lounge 978-637-2268 | 50 Brown St. Maynard, MA
The Shattuck Golf Club
18 Hole Championship Course - Driving Range Cathedral Ballroom - Mountain View Grille 603-532-4300 | 53 Dublin Rd., Jaffrey, NH All Six Courses Operated by Sterling Golf Management
Come to Yarmouth, Cape Cod for the Premier Golf Week of the Season! Yarmouth Golf Festival April 20 – 26, 2014
Events Include: • NEPGA Junior Tournament • Cape PGA Pro Amateur • Senior Two Man Event • Chang Beer Putting Challenge • Remax Long Drive • Blue Rock Par Three Challenge • Bayberry Hills Demo Day • Featuring Titleist, Ping, Callaway, Cleveland, Nike, Taylor Made • And More….
For Event Info Like Us at
Facebook.com/YarmouthGolfFestival
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CAPE COD & ISLANDS GOLF //
by Leigh MacKay
Blue Rock Golf Resort
Teeing It Up for great Cape Cod & Islands Golf Cape Cod, with its islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, is one of the country’s most popular vacation playgrounds and for many good reasons. Possessing miles of beach front, incomparable seafood, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, cranberry bogs, and many historical sites and landmarks, the Cape is a unique destination. Moreover, few regions in the world can compare with Cape Cod’s wealth of golf courses, numbering more than 40 and with most of them open to the public.
P
laying golf on the Cape and the Islands is a special treat for me, and I have a relatively short list of venues that have provided me with hours of challenge and entertainment. I enjoy five archetypal Geoffrey Cornish designs that are delightfully different. The town of Hyannis offers both Hyannis GC and Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds GC. Easy to get to and fun to play, they sport individualities of their own and force you to plan each shot carefully from tee to fairway to green. The layouts are a pleasant combination of elevation changes and doglegs, and the large, rolling greens place a premium on chipping and putting.
Worthy of mention at this point is the Cape & Islands Golf Shop located in Hyannis, the
Cape’s only comprehensive retail golf location. The selection of major brands of woods, irons, wedges, putters, balls, and accessories is impressive, and the shop professionals know their business. Custom club fitting is available and reasonable. I recommend a visit when you are looking to improve your game and equipment. Blue Rock Golf Resort and Bayberry Hills GC in Yarmouth present two different opportunities. Blue Rock is an award-winning, challenging, 18-hole, par-3 golf course that is meticulously
March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 45
Ba
Cranberry Valley maintained and has gently undulating, fast, bent-grass greens. The holes range from 103 to 255 yards and require the use of all 14 clubs in the bag. The course rating is 56.4 for men and 55.8 for women, a compelling indication that the layout is no pushover. Golf Magazine has named Blue Rock as a “Top 10 Par-3 Course.” Bayberry Hills includes three 9-hole courses, Red, White, and Blue, each one playing from 2600-3600 yards on four sets of tees. A classic golf course in design, the layout necessitates accuracy off the tee, proper positioning with irons, and keeping the ball “on the ground” around the greens to get it close to the pin.
Captains Golf Course Course in Brewster. The Starboard Course and The Port Course, both par 72’s, have each hole named after a Brewster sea captain of the early 1800’s and are both excellent championship layouts in outstanding condition. Starboard with a CR of 71.5 is a little easier of the two and favored by higher handicappers; Port has a CR of 72.1 and demands length off the tee plus accurate irons. Holes 12-17 are a superb six-hole stretch.
For my fifth Cornish course, I’m off to Farm Neck GC on an early morning Hy-Line HighSpeed Ferry from Hyannis to Martha’s Vineyard and make a day of it. Few courses in New England inspire me as much as Farm Neck not only because of the exceptional layout but also because of the beautiful setting along the coastline of Nantucket Sound.
Another Cornish/Silva tour de force is Cranberry Valley in Harwich, one of the Cape’s most popular and challenging courses. Given “4 Stars” by Golf Digest and annually voted one of the Cape’s best, the bent-grass course is usually in excellent shape and wends its way through marshes and cranberry bogs. Fairways are treelined, water hazards present some problems, and sand bunkers are strategically placed throughout. Cranberry Valley has one of the best practice areas you will find anywhere.
A Geoffrey Cornish disciple and renowned architect in his own right, Brian Silva designed the award-winning 36-hole Captains Golf
Two more special courses come courtesy of the Town of Dennis with Dennis Pines and Dennis Highlands. Always voted one of the best
Farm Neck
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Cape Cod Public Courses Ballymeade CC 508-540-4005 Bass River GC 508-398-9079
Ballymeade
Bayberry Hills GC 508-394-5597 Bay Pointe Club 508-759-8802 Blue Rock GC 508-398-9295 Brookside Club 508-743-4653 Cape Cod CC 508-563-9842 Ballymeade
Captains Golf Course 508-896-1716 Chatham Seaside Links 508-945-4774 Cotuit Highground GC 508-428-9863 Cranberry Valley GC 508-430-5234 Dennis Highlands GC 508-385-1554 Dennis Pines GC 508-385-8347
public courses in New England, Dennis Pines can play to 7029 yards from the tips, and holes 10-12 comprise its “Amen Corner” and a true test of your mettle. The Highlands has generous fairways, but the greens are large and rolling and require a deft touch to make par. Both put a premium of immaculate conditioning and customer service. Another favorite of mine is the semi-private Ballymeade CC in Falmouth. In 2006, Ballymeade, designed by Jim Fazio and Chi Chi Rodriguez, was voted as one of the “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest. This modern-style track follows the rolling countryside and includes multiple-tiered tees and greens. Several holes overlook Buzzards Bay, especially the par-3 eleventh. Ballymeade also has a large practice facility. Other Cape Cod courses that deserve your attention are the following: The Brookside Club in Bourne, Twin Brooks in Hyannis, Bass River in Yarmouth, Cape Cod CC in East Falmouth, Falmouth CC, Miacomet GC on Nantucket, Paul Harney Golf Club in Falmouth, Quashnet Valley in Mashpee, and Sandwich Hollows.
Falmouth CC 508-548-3211 Farm Neck GC 508-693-3057 Harwich Port GC 508-432-0250 Highland Links 508-487-9201 Holly Ridge GC 508-428-5577 Hyannis GC 508-362-2606 Miacomet GC 508-325-0333 Mink Meadows GC 508-693-0600 Olde Barnstable 508-420-1143 Paul Harney GC 508-563-3454 Quashnet Valley CC 508-477-4412 Sandwich Hollows 508-888-3384 Twin Brooks GC 508-862-6980
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Celebrity Golfer: New England Legends //
by Leigh MacKay
The New England Legacy Continues The 2013 centennial celebration of Francis Ouimet’s miraculous US Open playoff victory at The Country Club in Brookline against Harry Vardon and Ted Ray reminded us all of the exceptional young amateur who became America’s first golf hero. That young man then became the grand gentleman of New England golf and its most respected icon until his death in 1967. The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund, founded in 1949, keeps his name alive and is the largest independent scholarship fund in New England. Its motto, “From what golf has given you, let us give something back to golf,” has a special significance for New England Golf Monthly as it recognizes six outstanding New Englanders who have also embraced this motto in their own lives.
Dick Connolly, Endowing the Ouimet Fund Appropriately enough, our first honoree is Dick Connolly, a Boston stockbroker for Morgan Stanley and Arnold Palmer’s investment counselor, who has unstintingly given his time, energy, and money to support the Francis Ouiment Scholarship Fund and many other worthwhile causes. A Ouimet Scholarship allowed the Woburn CC
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caddie and greenkeeper to attend Holy Cross. After graduation and a master’s from Babson, he became a stockbroker in 1973, thus leading to his working for PaineWebber and his first meeting with its new spokesman, Arnold Palmer. Connolly’s devotion to the Ouimet Fund has become legend—as its greatest individual donor, its President, Director, 30-year Chair of the esteemed Francis Ouimet Memorial Tournament, and frequent committeeman. Connolly’s special project has been in making the annual banquet one of the most important golf affairs in the country. When the inaugural “Francis Ouimet Award for Lifelong Contributions to Golf” was presented to Arnold Palmer in 1997, the dinner kindled national interest. Through Connolly’s direction and selling of sponsorships, the event has raised more than $5 million and has paid tribute to such champions of the game as George H. W. Bush, Barbara and Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Gary Player, and Annika Sorenstam. Connolly, now 73, and his wife Ann Marie, also a Holy Cross grad and a trustee, have worked together to assist many other charities and organizations, and they have been mainstays of the Holy Cross fund-raising campaigns.
Hosting the CVS Caremark Charity Classic Brad Faxon of Barrington, RI, and Billy Andrade of Bristol, RI, are both noteworthy for their individual successes on the PGA Tour, but their continuous charitable work on behalf of the less fortunate, especially children, is selfless and exceptional. Faxon, with eight Tour victories and almost $20 million in earnings, turned pro in 1983 and is currently playing on the Champions Tour. His short game, especially his putting, has been his trademark. He has served two terms as a member of the PGA Tour Policy Board and played on two Ryder Cup teams. Faxon has become involved in golf course architecture and assisted Gil Hanse in the recent redesign of the TPC Boston course. Andrade turned pro in 1987, has won four times and close to $13 million, and is now eligible for the Champions Tour as of January 25 when he turned 50. He played golf at Wake Forest, led the team to the 1986 NCAA Championship, and played in the 1987 Walker Cup. Faxon and Andrade were elected to the Rhode Island Golf Hall of Fame in 2001. Both have remained loyal to their New England roots. As hosts of the CVS Caremark Charity Classic at Rhode Island CC since 1999, the two have raised more than $17 million. This past year saw $1.3 million distributed among 81 local charities and nonprofits, and CVS has just committed to another three years as sponsor. Their other venture is the Billy AndradeBrad Faxon Charities for Children, which has raised more than $7.5 million for at-risk
children in RI and southeastern MA. The two share three significant honors: the Golf Writers of America Charlie Bartlett Award for their “unselfish contributions to society,” the American Heart Association’s Gold Heart Award in recognition of their charity efforts, and the Ambassadors of Golf Award for their “concern for others that extends beyond the golf course.”
Paul Harney, Winning on Tour in Spare Time In late August, 2011, when Paul Harney, 82, passed away in Falmouth on Cape Cod, New England lost its most accomplished golfer of the modern era. He owned seven PGA Tour victories, several international wins, and five consecutive Mass Open titles. Harney, Worcester born and Holy Cross educated, played full time on Tour from 1955 through 1962. He married Patricia in 1957 and promised her he would become a club professional when their first child reached school age. Thus, in 1963, he accepted the head pro position at Sunset Oaks in California for one year before returning to Worcester and the head pro job at Pleasant Valley CC, then a major stop on the LPGA and PGA tours, serving there until 1973. The family man played from five to 14 Tour tournaments a year from 1963-73 and won three times, the last in 1972. Harney then moved Patricia and their six children to East Falmouth in 1973, where he set up shop on a par-61 golf course. Today, his daughter Erin is the GM, and his son Mike is the head pro of the Paul Harney Golf Club. Harney personally gave lessons at his Paul Harney Golf Academy, hosted an endless stream of junior and high school competitions, and made himself available to those who sought his advice. He served as president of the New England Section of the PGA, was named 1974 PGA Golf Professional of the Year, and was the first inductee into the New England Hall of Fame in 1996.
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He was enshrined into the PGA Golf Professsional Hall of Fame in 2005 for his commitment to developing golf for all. From 1967-71 he was a Goodwill Ambassador for the US State Department where he conducted golf clinics in Malaysia, Myanmar, and Singapore.
It should not come as a surprise if Seth Waugh succeeds Tim Finchem as Commissioner when his contract expires in 2016. Waugh has certainly proven he has the ambition and the ability to oversee and run operations as complex as the Tour.
Seth Waugh, Returning the PGA Tour to New England
Bob Toski, Teaching the World How To Play
Come Labor Day Weekend 2014, the best professional golfers in the world will descend upon TPC Boston in Norton for the second round of the FedEx Cup playoffs. New England golf fans will plan their long weekend around the Deutsche Bank Championship, one of the region’s most important and popular events.
Born in Haydenville, MA, and educated at the local Northampton CC, Toski turned pro in 1947, was the Tour’s leading money winner in 1954, and won six tournaments between the Augusts of 1953-54. He also won the Mass Open at Hyannisport Club in 1958 and the Maine Open at Penobscot Valley in 1959.
The tournament sports an $8 million dollar purse, has donated more than $22 million to charity since 2003, and has generated more than $50 million annually to the area. Born in Ayer, MA, Seth Waugh, the former CEO of Deutsche Bank Americas—he retired in 2012— has been the main impetus behind the success of the event and has ensured the tournament’s run through 2016. When he became CEO in 2000, one of his mandates was to improve the recognition factor of the foreign Deutsche Bank in the Americas. Waugh, a three-season athlete at the Lawrenceville School and a graduate of Amherst College, knew professional sports would provide that recognition, and he chose majorleague golf as his medium. Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem embraced the plan, and Waugh became partners with the Tiger Woods Foundation, the primary beneficiary of the DBC. Tiger, of course, not only has participated (and won) and drawn huge crowds but also has been thankful for this chance to fund both New England organizations and his scholarship program for underserved youth. He said, “I would like to compliment Seth on his many accomplishments at the Deutsche Bank Championship and personally thank him for his commitment to my Foundation and our college-access programs. Seth’s dedication and insight are clearly evident in the tournament.”
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Very much like Paul Harney, Toski chose to spend more time with his young family, leaving the Tour in 1955 at age 30 to become a club professional and an instructor. It was this second career as an instructor that brought him international renown. From 1960 on, Toski’s name, face, animated lessons, and signature white cap became ubiquitous in the golf world. He composed instruction articles for myriad magazines, wrote or co-wrote a dozen books, made some of the first teaching videos, was a pioneer in bringing instruction to TV, was a regular on NBC tournament telecasts, developed his own line of eponymous clubs, and taught thousands of students. In 1971, he started the Golf Digest Schools, directing them for 20 years, and his system became the standard against which all other schools were judged. In 1990, he was inducted into the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame, and in March of 2013, he was inducted into the PGA Golf Professional Hall of Fame, the PGA’s highest honor. Touring pros such as Brad Adamonis, Jane Blalock, Pat Bradley, Bruce Crampton, Bruce Devlin, Ken Duke, Bruce Fleisher, Birdie Kim, Tom Kite, Judy Rankin, and Lexi Thompson have sought his advice. Toski, now 87 and living in Boca Raton, FL, said about his life as a teacher, “If I don’t give a lesson today, I feel like I’ve missed something.”
Molori Unplugged //
by John Molori
Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net
Hanging Ten with
Boston Sports Golfers Boston sports media is a hotbed of golf mavens, with varying degrees of skill and experience. With apologies to David Letterman, and all the duffers who missed the cut, here are my Top 10 Boston Sports Media Golfers. 10. Dan Roche, WBZ-TV A North Andover native, Roche adores Merrimack Valley courses such as Andover, Indian Ridge, and Crystal Springs. An 18 handicap, his game favors wide open, Donald Ross-style courses and philanthropy. Says Roche,” I’ve been fortunate enough to play in events that have helped the Lawrence Boys & Girls Club, Lazarus House and others. Raising money for the events is what it’s all about. The kids that have come out of Boys & Girls clubs are amazing. I am in awe of them.”
Steve Burton, WBZ-TV March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 53
Molori Unplugged: Hanging Ten with Boston Sports Golfers
9. Jayme Parker, NESN and BC Sports Jayme Parker’s golf baptism was an exercise in mayhem. “I almost hit (former Red Sox outfielder) Darren Bragg in the head with a drive,” she relates. “And Bobby Orr was playfully ridiculing me all day.” A two-time longest drive winner at Doug Flutie’s tournament, Parker’s personal golf labor of love is the Liberty Mutual Invitational Tournament benefitting Uplifting Athletes, spearheaded by Mark Herzlich, the former BC standout who was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma while in college. “I asked Mark how he would feel if I started a golf tournament on his behalf. I called a lot of my celebrity connections, and they agreed to show up on a handshake. That’s the plus of creating good relationships with people.”
8. Steve Burton, WBZ-TV Steve Burton is no golf name dropper, but he has played in tournaments with the legendary likes of Lawrence Taylor, Bo Jackson, Michael Jordan, and Mario Lemieux. A member at Hopkinton, Burton experienced his golf highlight at Shining Rock. He relates, “I was playing in a tournament to benefit cancer research. It was great because I was playing with some old high school buddies. They were all lined up watching me shoot about a 200 yard drive off the tee. It rolled right in the cup for my first hole in one!”
7. Mike Lynch, WCVB-TV “Lynchie” was once a caddy at Tedesco, and still plays Salem, Kernwood, and Belmont, but fancies Brookline as a student of golf history.
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Like Burton, he has teed off with luminaries galore including Bobby Orr, John Havlicek, and Roger Clemens. “Golf removes the barriers and mistrust,” he explains “What is said on the course stays on the course. Prior to playing, you may have certain perceptions of each other. You feel entirely different about a person after playing for four hours.”
6. Tony Massarotti, 98.5 The Sports Hub Massarotti’s golf journey began at Tufts playing at the famed Leo J. Martin public course. His resume has since expanded to Presidents, Granite Links, Ponkapoag, and several Cape courses. For the man they call “Mazz,” the game is a process. “I believe it takes five years to learn how to hit the ball, and then five more to hit it straight. My handicap is a 15, and I shoot an 82 on a good day. I like courses such as Sandy Burr. It rewards you for keeping the ball straight.”
5. Andy Brickley, NESN A life in hockey, i.e. having the summer off, fits perfectly into Brickley’s golf game, and the ex-Bruin sees the game as a veritable window to the soul. “You can see honesty and a sense of gentlemanship. It gives you a peek into what people are really like. You have to have a mental tenacity. With golf, you are alone, and you can’t throw your bag into the crowd or knock down an opponent.”
4. Mike Gorman, Comcast Sports Net
2. Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net
A popular media figure for nearly four decades, Gorman’s relationship with golf is entirely introverted. “When I play with someone, they want to spend two and a half hours talking about the Celtics. I appreciate that, but I’d rather talk about why I keep hitting the ball to the right.”
Walsh was recruited to play for Temple, Villanova, LaSalle, Penn State, and Florida International, eventually choosing Purdue.
Gorman relishes playing with superior golfers and welcomes the game’s constant learning curve. “One time at the range, there was a guy with an amazing backswing. He was hitting these beautiful 275 to 300 yard drives. You could throw a blanket over where they all landed. I love watching things like that.”
3. Sean McDonough, ESPN Like many locals, golf is in Sean McDonough’s blood. “My dad (Boston Globe writer Will McDonough) really started getting addicted golf when he turned 50. Golf holds a special place in my heart because of dad. He died at 67, so a lot of the time we spent together over the last 17 years of his life was on the golf course.” More than a decade ago, McDonough established The Sean McDonough Charitable Foundation, an organization that provides needed funds to deserving children’s charities. “It’s just a great way to get out there and meet people. It allows me to be more visible and help out so many great causes.”
The author and humanitarian chose family and media over a pro career and shares a classic golf story. “In 2000, I was playing Pebble Beach. After lunch, a Lincoln Town Car pulled up and out comes none other than Arnold Palmer. “At the time, I was working on a book about caddying. I knew that Arnie was a former caddy, so I worked up the courage to ask for a brief interview. I was fumbling with my tape recorder and he put me totally at ease. He could not have been more thoughtful or gracious.”
1. Bob Lobel, WBZ Legend, Suitesports.com Chronic back problems have not dampened Lobel’s love of golf, even using a SoloRider cart to keep himself on the links. A member at the International, Lobel includes Salem, Myopia, Oyster Harbor, and Granite Links among his favorite courses. “I know that I probably will never walk again without at least a cane,” says Lobel. ”But I can still hit it 180 or 200 yards. You are an independent contractor in golf. You play yourself, the course, and no one else.” John Molori has been a frequent contributor to Boston Sports publications and is co-author of “ The Cracker Jack Collection” on baseballs prized players over 100 years. John is a columnist and frequent contributor to New England Golf Monthly and New England Publishing Group. e-mail John at molorimedia@aol.com
March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 55
2014 SEMINAR STAGE SCHEDULE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2014 1:00 pm
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SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 11:00 am College Golf & Junior Development
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Michael Breed, The Golf Fix, The Golf Channel
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Daren McKinnon, Director of Club Fitting, Joe & Leigh’s Performance Center
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David DuPriest, Certified Jr. Golf Fitness Coach, FitGolf
3:00 pm Michael Breed, Host, The Golf Fix, The Golf Channel 57
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Palopoli’s Picks //
by Jeff Palopoli
Dustin Johnson
The 2013-2014 PGA Tour is well underway, as is the race for the FedEx Cup. In June we’ll see the TOUR move up the coast to the Northeast for The Travelers Championship (Cromwell, CT), The Barclays (Paramus, NJ), and finally The Deutsche Bank Championship (Norton, MA). Below is a preview of the three PGA TOUR events stopping in the Northeast this season, as well as my Top 5 Picks for the season ending the FedEx Cup. The Travelers Championship The TPC River Highlands has been the host course for this event going all the way back to 1984, back when it was known as the Buick Championship and Greater Hartford Open. The track traditionally is prone to giving up really low scores, as proven by Patrick Cantlay who in 2011, as an amateur, fired a 60 capturing the course record in the process. Last year TOUR journeyman Ken Duke recorded his first victory here by defeating Chris Stroud on the second playoff hole.
The Barclays The first round of the FedEx Cup Playoffs gets underway at The Barclays on August 21, where the top 125 players in points will tee it up at the Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, NJ.
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This tournament has a rotation of four venues that serve as the host course, and it was last played at Ridgewood CC in 2010. Last year Adam Scott outlasted the likes of Tiger Woods, Justin Rose, Phil Mickelson, and Jim Furyk, in a bunched up leaderboard of marquee names.
The Deutsche Bank Championship The field gets whittled down to the top 100 for the second round of the FedEx Cup Playoffs for the DBC. This tournament features a Friday start and a Labor Day final round, which has become a bit of a tradition in the area and something locals routinely look forward to. In 2013 Henrik Stenson won what was the first of his two Playoff victories of 2013 here, beating former DBC Champion Steve Stricker (2009) by two shots, and ultimately took home the FedEx Cup title just a few short weeks later.
Top 5 Predictions for the FedEx Cup He’s doing the same this year and places all of his focus on the Majors and Playoffs. He won The Baclays last year and has had great success at the DBC as well over the years. 3. Jimmy Walker: There’s not a hotter golfer on TOUR right now than Jimmy Walker. He’s already chalked up three victories in the wrap-around 20132014 season so far, ranks 3rd in Strokes Gained Putting, 4th in Birdie Average and obviously leads the race for the FedEx Cup so far. He seems to be contending in every tournament he tee’s it up at. He hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down and this is undoubtedly his breakout season. 4. Jordan Spieth: Watching Spieth play and conduct himself, it’s incredible to think that he’s only 20 years old. He isn’t phased at all teeing it up alongside the biggest names in golf. Last year Spieth won Jordan Spieth the John Deere Classic at only 19 and rolled that confidence right in to the 1. Dustin Johnson: At the time of this writing Playoffs, finishing 4th at Dustin Johnson hasn’t finished worse than T6 in the DBC and T2 at the TOUR Championship. the three events he’s tee’d it up at this season. 5. Zach Johnson: Zach started 2014 on a torThat also includes another WGC victory at the rid pace, winning the Hyundai Tournament HSBC Champions event in Shanghai. His stats of Champions and following it up with two are also off the charts, ranking 1st Birdie Averother top 10s, including a T3 at the Humana. age, 1st in GIR, and 2nd in Scoring Average. He Last year he had a great showing in the Playtypically plays well in all the Playoff events, and offs with winning the BMW Championship I think this is his year. and followed that up with a T7 at the season 2. Adam Scott: Last year Scott’s plan to play on ending TOUR Championship. a much reduced schedule seemed to pay off.
March 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 63
WATCH THE BEST PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS
ON THE PLANET RIGHT HERE IN NEW ENGLAND Travelers Championship | TravelersChampionship.com TPC River Highlands | Cromwell, CT | June 19 – 22, 2014
Purse: $6,200,000 | Winning Share: $1,116,000 | FedExCup Points: 500
Ken Duke
2013 Champion
CVS Caremark Charity Classic | CVSCharityClassic.com Rhode Island County Club | Barrington, RI | June 23 – 24, 2014
Steve Stricker & Bo Van Pelt 2013 Champions
Deutsche Bank Championship | DeutscheBankChampionship.com TPS Boston | Norton, MA | August 29 – September 1, 2014
Purse: $8,000,000 | Winning Share: $1,440,000 | FedExCup Points: 2,500
Henrik Stenson 2013 Champion
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Team New England on the PGA Tour
West Coast Swing 2014
Scott Stallings 2014 Champion at The Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course.
James Driscoll in the Humana Challenge at La Quinta
JJ Henry in the L.A. Northern Trust Open at Riviera CC
Brett Quigley at The Humana Challenge at La Quinta
Jim Renner in the Farmers Open at Torrey Pines
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Keegan Bradley in The Humana Challenge at La Quinta
Bill Belichick has the worried look at Pebble Beach
Chris Berman takes a mighty swing at Pebble Beach
California Native Tom Brady right at home at Pebble Beach
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Team New England UPDATE //
by Steve Riggs
PGA Tour Keegan Bradley (VT) has made 20 cuts in 24 starts with 2 seconds, 1 third, 7 top 10 and 14 top 25 finishes and earnings of $3,636,813. Making the Presidents Cup Team, Keegan was our only player to go all the way in the post season FedEx Cup Playoffs finishing in 16th place overall. A scoring average of 70.01 has shown steady improvement month to month. I am impressed with how Bradley has accepted the peaks and valleys that are the PGA TOUR. Scott Stallings (MA) ) is one for whom I have high hopes in 2014. Known as a late season starter, Scott won the Farmers Insurance Open in January putting that myth to rest. Stallings’ came to Torrey Pines having missed 4 cuts in 7 starts proving the strength a player who steadily builds his competitive talents. Last year at this time Scott’s earnings were $366,800. This year his number is $1,128,421. Jim Renner, (MA) is back on the PGA Tour after regaining his card via his finishing in the top 25 money earners on the Web.Com. Off to a slow start missing the cut in his first four starts, Renner has proven hard work and dedication does pay off. Jim’s T-2nd at the AT&T National Pro-am just might be catalyst to jump start his 2014 season with a $580,800 payday. J.J.Henry, (CT) has been a steady player over the years for TNE but 2013 was not one of JJ’s better years. That said, after looking at his stats and thus far most have improved and that shows Henry is most defiantly on the right track having missed just 3 cuts in 8 starts or 88%. Earnings of $235,146, while rather sluggish are better than a year ago. Call it a feeling but the 38 year old Fairfield native just might surprise people this year. James Driscoll, (MA) is showing promise this year posting some good numbers at several events so far. Driscoll just needs to keep grinding and get comfortable with being at the top of the leaderboard. Case in point was his great play at the Humana this year where he shot 63, 65 and 66 only to close with 72. While missing only 2 cuts in 8 starts, James last four events, (one was a cut), have seen final rounds in the 70s. Driscoll’s earnings are $255,267, off a bit from this Tim Petrovic, (MA) continues to struggle on both PGA and Web.Com tours after losing his PGA Tour Card a couple years ago. Not a big hitter off the Tee Tim needs work on his driving accuracy to make up for his lack of distance. Petrovic’s played in just one event this year on the PGA Tour finishing T36 in the OHL Classic at Myakoba and at this writing the Web.Com has yet to start in 2014. Brett Quigley, (RI) has not played much of a schedule on either the PGA or Web.Com tours since losing his PGA Tour playing privileges a few years ago. Brett played in the Humana in mid January and had a great opening round of 66 and a 68 in round three. As we’ve said, Brett is a solid player needing only a few good rounds to perhaps restore some of the confidence and fire that is Brett Quigley.
Champions Tour Brad Faxon, (RI) has always been known for his putting and he seems to be on the right track after looking at his stats year over year since he joined the Champions Tour. His driving accuracy and GIR percentage indicates he needs work keeping the ball in the fairway. 2014 has seen Brad suit up for both Champions Tour events in 2014 earning $32,480, just a couple thousand off last year’s number. Faxon earned $406,166 in 2013. Billy Andrade, (RI) gets his feet wet on the Champions Tour this year and played the Allianz Championship finishing at -2/214. We wish him luck as he embarks, hopefully, on a full schedule. Last year Billy made 1 cut in 3 starts earning $114,000 on the PGA Tour. Billy has devoted a lot of time to his charity work with the CVS Charity Classic over the past few years but has always been one of TNE’s most talented players. Dana Quigley, (MA) the original Iron Man has cut back on his schedule the past year or so due to son Devon’s rehabbing from a TBI, (Traumatic Brain Injury), after an accident. Dana played the Allianz Championship and bested younger TNE players Faxon and Andrade with a -3/213. Not bad for the 66 year old Iron Man. Allen Doyle, (RI) has, like Dana Quigley, has dialed back his Champions Tour Schedule and has not started his 2014 season. At 65, the Woonsocket native has finished 1st 11 times on the Champions Tour with total earnings of $13,401,250. Allen may have an unorthodox swing but that swing has paid huge rewards.
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Team New England UPDATE //
by Steve Riggs
LPGA TOUR Alison Walshe, (MA) has impressed me as a real grinder on the LPGA TOUR. Earning $245,515, Alison competed in 24 events with an average field ranking of 26th . Having missed the cut in her first event of 2014, after looking at her stats, Walshe, could have a break out year in 2014. She’s due and we wish her luck.
European PGA Tour Peter Uihlein, (MA) received Rookie of the Year honors on the European Tour in 2013 and is again is playing over the pond. While I am anxious to see Peter jump in to the PGA Tour, I respect this young man’s decision. Uihlein has made the cut in the 4 events of 2014 on the Euro PGA Tour. Somewhat in the basement in the race to Dubai, I’m confident Peter will continue to grow via the experience he is getting ‘over there’
WEB.COM TOUR Brad Adamonis, (RI) has struggled to get back to the level of play he exhibited on the PGA Tour leading up to a personal tragedy which devastated this richly talented player. Brad’s play on the Web.Com since losing his PGA Tour Card afterthe ’09 season indicates there must be non-swing issues needing addressed. An extremely talented player, it is my hope Brad hangs in there. We need him. Rob Oppenheim, (MA) needs work on his stats. Looking at his percentage of fairways hit, it appears he may be reaching for more power than he’s capable of as he is not a long hitter. By swinging more within himself off the tee, he is sure to find more fairways. Doing that generally leads to confidence and better overall numbers, scores and paychecks. Patrick Sheehan, (MA) has been back and forth between the PGA and Web.com tours for some time never rally able to repeat that year in 2004 when he checked for over a million dollars on the PGA Tour. My respect for Patrick’s tenacity in grinding it out convinces me he has more good paychecks in his future Jon Curran, (MA) won the Player of The Year on the NGA Tour in 2013. Jon has played in 4 PGA Tour events and has earned $28,500 in the last few years. He has full status on the Web.Com Tour this season through the second reshuffle (8th event) and is currently at 21st on the money list after making the cut in the first event this season.
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New England Amateur Golf //
by Ben Larsen
Change is needed in the industry
Despite the forecast, golf season is inching closer to us here in the northeast and New England. And as is the case every year, a season full of high-level tournaments and top-notch events await the region’s winter-weary competitive golfers. While many golf fans turn their attention towards the PGA Tour’s two official stops in the region -- the Travelers Championship in June and the Deutsche Bank Championship, part of the season-ending Fedex Cup over Labor Day weekend -- there are a number of amateur events played across the region each year that truly make New England a destination for the avid golfer each spring and summer. Perhaps the biggest amateur event on the schedule remains the Northeast Amateur. Many of the nation’s top collegiate and midamateur golfers will again head to Wannamoisett Country Club in Rumford, R.I. to take aim at one of amateur golf’s most prized events.. The event calls many elite current and past PGA Tour stars among its champions, including Dustin Johnson, Luke Donald, David Duval and Ben Crenshaw. Which future star will take the crown this year
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at the 1914 Donald Ross design? Only time will tell, but we’re sure the field will make sure it’s well-earned. The New England Amateur Championship will return to Massachusetts July 22-24 at Winchester Country Club. After a wild win by Vermont’s Evan Russell at Green Mountain National last year, it’s a wide open field in 2013. The event will again be a World Amateur Golf Rankings points event and host one of the top fields in New England. Also in the Bay State, two annual invitationals bring out the region’s best players all fighting for a sense of tradition and charity. The Hornblower Memorial will be played May 30-31 at Plymouth Country Club. Nine-time Massachusetts Golf Association Player of the Year Frank Vana considers this event the one that’s managed to get away. Many of New England’s premier amateurs head to the Hornblower and eye it as the season’s first ‘major’. The event goes to honor Plymouth Country Club benefactor Henry Hornblower, who collaborated with the for-
mer Pilgrim Hotel to create the club. Defending champion John Hadges will have his hands full to defend against the field this year. The Francis Ouimet Memorial is slated for July 30-Aug. 1 and will again go to honor the man that helped mainstream golf in America by winning the U.S. Open as an amateur and support the education of Massachusetts youth golfers through the Ouimet Scholarship Fund is undoubtedly one of the season’s most anticipated events. With the final round of the 54hole event scheduled at Woodland Country Club, Ouimet’s home course, the nostalgia is sure to continue in this, the 47th annual Ouimet Memorial. State association events are also circled on the calendar each season. The Massachusetts Open is June 10-12 at Weston Golf Club. Last year’s winner, Evan Harmeling of Andover, showed class, spirit and pride for the city of Boston when he donated his entire winnings -$15,000 -- to the One Fund, the charity devised to support victims of the April 15 terrorist attacks in the city. What will he do for an encore? The field again will be full and ready for action at another Ross gem. Professionals and amateurs alike will try to qualify for the event from May 5-28 across the state in six separate qualifiers. Kernwood Country Club in Salem plays host to the Massachusetts Amateur Championship, July 14-18. The pack will be heading to the North Shore for this year’s state amateur championship hoping to knock off two-time defending champion Mike Calef, who prevailed last year at Longmeadow Country Club -- another Donald Ross original -- over George Wright’s Ian Thimble. Calef, joined an impressive list of twotime Mass. Amateur winners, including Francis Ouimet, Frank Vana and James Hallett. Quali-
fying for the event, which dates back to 1903, runs June 2-25 across the state. In Connecticut, the big one, the Connecticut State Amateur is June 16-20 at Lake of Isles, the beautiful and highly-regarded course abutting Foxwoods Resort Casino. Reigning champion Cody Paladino turned professional following his stellar summer on the amateur circuit, so a new champion will be crowned this year. In Maine, the state’s association players will be hoping to qualify for the July 8-10 Maine State Amateur at The Woodlands Club in Falmouth. Last year, Ricky Jones -- an experienced USGA competitor -- held off the field after finishing as the runner-up twice in the three previous playings of the event. The Maine Open Championship is scheduled for July 28-29 at Augusta Country Club. Jack Wyman and Massachusetts’’ Colin Brennan were the low amateurs at last year’s event. New Hampshire’s State Amateur Championship will be July 14-19 at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown, NH with Michael Martel looking to make it two straight titles following his 2013 win at the Country Club of New England. Vermont native Evan Russell, who won the 2013 New England Amateur, also won his state’s amateur championship. The University of Hartford golfer will defend against the field July 8-10 at Burlington Country Club. And in Rhode Island, the Ocean State’s top golfers take aim at Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth, site of the 2014 Rhode Island State Amateur. Brad Valois prevailed in a battle with familiar foes last year and will be a favorite again this year. In addition to the many state and New England-wide amateur events, there are many local and regional events scheduled that are more accessible for players of varying skill levels. For a complete listing of events in each New England state, visit amateurgolf.com/trialoffer and enter the promo code NEGM for a free membership.
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2014 Amateur Tournaments Guide
USGA Championship Schedule U.S. Open Championship
June 12-15 | Pinehurst Resort & C.C. , Village of Pinehurst, N.C. Entry Close Date – Wednesday, April 23 Local Qualifying: May 6 Twin Hills CC , Longmeadow, MA
May 8 Pinehills GC, Plymouth, MA
May 13 Point Judith CC, Narragansett, RI
U.S. Senior Open Championship
July 10-13 | Oak Tree National Golf Club, Edmond, OK Entry Close Date – Wednesday, May 28 Sectional Qualifying: June 18 Tedesco CC, Marblehead, MA
U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship
July 14-19 | Sand Creek Station Golf Course, Newton, KA Entry Close Date – Wednesday, May 28 Sectional Qualifying: June 12 June 16 Brunswick, GC Bretwood GC Brunswick, ME Keene, NH
June 18 Stow Acres CC Stow, MA
U.S. Junior Amateur Championship
July 21-26 | The Club at Carlton Woods, The Woodlands, TX Entry Close Date – Wednesday, June 4 Sectional Qualifying: June 26 Cohasset GC, Cohasset, MA
U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship
September 6-11 | Saucon Valley Country Club, Bethlehem, PA Entry Close Date – Wednesday, July 9 Sectional Qualifying: July 28 August 4 The Ranch GC GC of Cape Cod Southwick, MA East Falmouth, MA
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U.S Women’s Open Championship
June 19-22 | Pinehurst Resort & C.C., Village of Pinehurst, NC Entry Close Date – Wednesday, April 30 Sectional Qualifying: May 27 Thorny Lea GC, Brockton, MA
U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship July 14-19 | The Home Course, DuPont, WA Entry Close Date – Wednesday, May 14
Sectional Qualifying: Please contact the WGAM for more information. May 28 | Cyprian Keyes GC, Boylston, MA
U.S Women’s Amateur Championship
August 4-10 | Nassau Country Club, Glen Cove, NY Entry Close Date – Wednesday, June 25 Qualifying: July 10 | Haverhill CC, Haverhill, MA
New England Amateur Events
New England Amateur Championship
July 22-24, 2014 Winchester Country Club, Winchester, MA
New England Junior Amateur Invitational
August 18-20, 2014 | Ledgemont Country Club, Seekonk, RI
New England Senior Amateur Championship
September 16-17, 2014| Laconia Country Club Laconia, NH
The Northeast Amateur
June 17th – 21st | Wannamoisett CC, East Providence, RI
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2014 Amateur Tournaments Guide
The Hornblower Memorial
May 30th-31st | Plymouth CC, Plymouth, MA
Francis Ouimet Memorial
July 30th – August 1, 2014 Woodland Golf Club, Auburndale, MA
State Amateur Championships Massachusetts Amateur Championship
July 14-18 | Kernwood Country Club, Salem, MA
Connecticut Amateur Championship
June 16 - 20, 2014 | Lake of Isles CC, N. Stonington, CT
Maine Amateur Championship
July 8th – 10th | Woodlands CC, Falmouth, ME
Rhode Island Amateur Championship
July 7-11 | Montaup Country Club, Portsmouth, RI
Vermont Amateur Championship
July 8-10 | Burlington CC, Burlington, VT
New Hampshire State Amateur Championship
July 14-19, 2014 | Stonebridge Country Club, Goffstown, NH
State Amateur Championships Massachusetts Open Championship June 10-12 Weston Golf Club, Weston, MA
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Connecticut Open Championship
July 28 - 30, 2014 Rolling Hills Country Club, Wilton, CT
New Hampshire Open Championship
New July 30-31 The Owls Nest, Thornton, NH
The Vermont Open Championship
June 16-18 Lake Morey CC, Fairlee, VT
Rhode Island Open Championship
August 4-6 Agawam Hunt Club, Rumford, RI
Maine Open Championship
July 28th-29th Augusta Country Club, Manchester, ME
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2/13/14 12:55 PM
Super Charge Your Golf Event //
by
A.J. ALI
Ask One Question To Boost
Your Golf Event Revenues There is one simple question that is almost guaranteed to produce fruit for a charity golf outing in the form of more golfers, sponsors, player gifts, auction items or raffle items. However, most golf outing coordinators never ask the question. That simple question, that should be asked of every single person who supports an event at any level whatsoever, is this: “Do you know anyone else who may benefit by being associated with this event or who may be affected by the cause and may wish to support this event?“
How much of a difference can asking that question make? I’ll give you a real-life example. I produced a golf event to raise awareness for a football coaches association. The event featured players and coaches from two NFL teams coming together to support a common cause. I went to a local business newspaper and struck a deal with them to become a media sponsor. It was a great deal for both of us. They got an exclusive and we gained a media partner that would advertise the event for us for free to a valuable audience. Once the deal was agreed upon, I could have celebrated the victory and then moved on to the next deal, which is what happens 90% of the time. Instead, however, literally while the ink was still wet on the paper, I asked the question “Do you know anyone else…” The person I did the deal with immediately got on the phone to call one of their largest advertisers and less than 10 minutes later, I had an appointment to go see them. Less than a week later, I had a $10,000 sponsorship check in my hands from the advertiser. One simple question led to the biggest sponsorship of the entire event.
person you close is connected to dozens of other people who may also support the event.
There are two basic reasons why “The Question” doesn’t get asked.
A.J. Ali is an award-winning writer, producer, actor and TV host. He is the author of the book “Tee To Green: How to Use Golf to Make More Money.” He is one of the premier golf event producers and consultants in the United States. He has raised more than $25 million for charities and has taught thousands of people how to use golf as a business tool through his “Supercharge Your Golf Event” and “ABC’s of Business Golf” workshops. www.ontheteewithajali.com
1. Most people think in two dimensions. In other words, they think that the deal is just between them and the person they are trying to close. In fact, we live in a 3D world. With every interaction, there is always a third dimension to consider. In fact, there are usually multiple options to consider in the 3D environment. Every
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2. People are afraid to ask out of fear of being rejected for being greedy. The sponsor will actually think the exact opposite. By bringing the sponsor into the mix and making them your “partner,” they will feel honored to be included in furthering the success of the event. Even if they don’t bring anyone else to the table, they will feel a closer connection to the event and that could pay off on event day when you are selling raffle tickets, auction items and mulligan packages. I’ve literally had people tell me “I’m sorry I couldn’t get anyone else to come to the event, so here’s an additional $100 contribution towards the cause.” Sponsors have suppliers, partners, customers and friends who are also potential sponsors of your event. Once you have a sponsor on board, it’s time to bring them into the marketing mix. Make them part of the team and they will respond by helping to make your event bigger and more profitable.
The Comedy Golf Club //
by
Ben Hague
Only Jason Dufner could have a ho hum type of reaction to an 80 degree day in Southern California. I was walking up the famed 18th hole at Riviera Country Club, caddying in the Pro-Am along side PGA Tour Star, Matt Kutchar. As the sun beat down on us without a cloud in the sky I tried to take it all in, knowing I’d be on a plane less then twenty-four hours later to New York, which was in the middle of yet another blizzard. Golf was the only thing on my mind. Kutch cut a 6 iron from about 190 yards to inside five feet and made the birdie. I mimicked the wrist movement needed to turn the ball left to right for a shot like that. It’s the closest I’ve come to hitting a golf ball in nearly 4 months.
We all do it. We as golfers in non-ideal climates always do. I’ve been caught practicing my swing in elevators or in bedroom mirrors, which should be used for more fun recreational activities. And I even busted an overhead light this winter swinging a club indoors. All the while I was cleaning up the glass I thought “Man that was great the way you kept your left arm straight.” It’s what we do as golfers.
wasn’t the one heading back to the blizzard. And when it’s 80 and sunny, how can you not smile.
As me and Duff crossed paths leaving 18, I mentioned the weather and asked to take a selfie with me. He smiled and obliged. Yes, he smiled. Jason Dufner, the PGA’s lovable slouch. I can only think it’s because he somehow knew he
• My golf game is so bad I had to re grip my ball retriever.
Look for One Liners all season long in the Comedy Golf Club. Please oblige with golf claps and roars! • What’s the problem with my golf game? You’re standing to close to the ball..... after you hit it.
• That course was so hard, I lost 2 Titleist’s in the ball washer.
To have national headlining comedian Ben Hague perform for your next big outing or members night book a hilarious at mynegm.com/golfcomedy, benhaguecomedy@gmail.com or 401-243-4425
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ROSS’S RULES // By Jack Ross
A RECREATIONAL GOLF APPENDIX TO
YOUR USGA RULE BOOK The 2014 PGA Merchandise Show featured the rollout of Hack Golf, an industry initiative spearheaded by TaylorMade to make the game of golf more enjoyable. Among the many facets of this movement is a concerted effort to adapt the intricate and cumbersome Rules of Golf administered by the USGA to the game as it is actually played by millions of recreational golfers. For example, the Recreational Golf Association America has proposed a set of rules for recreational golfers. (See www.rgaa.org) Let’s face it -- few recreational golfers adhere strictly to the Rules of Golf. Go to any course and you’ll find that groups of golfers who play and compete together regularly have devised adaptations that make sense in light of their objective: to have fun on the course and complete the round in a reasonable amount of time. Plus, unique features and conditions of courses might justify “local” rules. Purists might say these folks are not playing golf as it was intended, but the point is they are playing golf and having fun. I’m not sure I like the 15” cup concept, although I probably would make a few more 4-footers. But based on years of experience and an informal survey, here are a few ideas for recreational golf rules: 1. Eliminate the stroke-and-distance rule for balls that are lost or out of bounds. If a ball is lost in the woods or is out of bounds, drop where the ball entered the woods or crossed the boundary line with a 1-stroke penalty (similar to the lateral hazard rule). If a ball is lost in an open area, drop a ball as nearly as possible to where it likely was lost. 2. Additional water hazard option. If a water hazard extends from the tee to the edge of the green on a par-3 hole and the ball comes up short
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of the green in the water, the only option under Rule 26 is to re-tee. Why make a golfer masochistically hit repeated balls into a hazard if he or she can’t reach the green? In this situation, allow a drop to the side of the hazard at the point where the ball landed. Alternatively, players could mutually agree on a drop zone. 3. Most of us play on courses that don’t measure up to the conditions of Augusta National. If a ball is in the fairway, it may be moved within one club length to avoid playing from divots or substandard areas. In the rough, a ball may be moved if a root or rock interferes with the shot. Do we really need to break clubs or wrists in the strict adherence to USGA rules? 4. I think we’ve all seen enough controversies about imperceptible movements of balls. If a ball moves slightly (but retains its basic position) when the player moves loose impediments or addresses the ball, there is no penalty. (This doesn’t mean you can move a stick and bat the ball 20 yards into better position.) 5. Liberalize the unplayable ball rule by permitting a drop at the nearest point that permits an unrestricted stance and swing. Two club lengths in many cases affords no meaningful relief. 6. Play ready golf. No penalty for playing out of turn. This might be a start. But don’t look for an adoption of any of these rules when the USGA and R&A issue the next rules revisions in 2016. They are still busy fine-tuning the anchoring rule. Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop. He also writes a rules feature for ESPN.com. Rules inquiries may be addressed to rossgolf@charter.net.
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Tech Trends
for the 2014 Season Each year we feature the latest and greatest in technology available to improve your game outdoors or indoors. In August this season we will once again bring you our favorite golf apps, gps’, range finders, launch monitors and simulation devices. From there we will begin the Indoor Golf Season in October as there is limited Fall Golf remaining. It is around this time that golfers begin to assess their games for the next outdoor season and invest in their fitness, fundamentals and equipment. They also choose their Indoor Golf Club to play at with their buddies or to join a simulator league to continue to enjoy the game we all love so much until the snow lifts in March.
As with years past we are sure you will see many new locations in our Indoor Golf Guide opening all over New England so check back often. Below are some of the products the New England Golf Monthly is considering for review in the months ahead so that you our loyal readers will be in the know for 2014. Enjoy!
By Greg Sampson aboutGolf
The world’s leader in indoor golf simulators has done it again with their all new aG Portal which allows you to play/practice, watch TV, listen to Pandora and even play the games of the Big Break all from the comfort of your golf simulator. Look for this upgrade at your local indoor facility near you in the Northeast. They can be found in the 2014 Indoor Golf Guide or on our website.
Ernest Sports
The very popular ES12 Digital Golf Assistant is still an affordable way to track your swings on the range or on the course storing the data on your smartphone through their app. They stepped it up this season with the new ES14 Launch Monitor for the serious golfer, teacher and/or club fitter. We love the instant audio feedback on each shot, which no launch monitor provides and that it provides the same valuable launch data as its competitors at a much lower investment to the customer.
GolfBuddy
This line of GPS devices is jam packed with features you will not find from other companies in their space. Their hand held devices are known for their accuracy whose features have been transferred into their all-new WT4 GPS Watch. The WT4 even tracks how far you walk and at what speed for you fitness conscious golfers. They also debuted a laser finder model that we can’t wait to test on the course. 82 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | March 2014
Flightscope
The company known for its 3D Doppler Tracking Radar debuted its first consumer model, the Xi for 2014 and boy are we excited. For the first time the serious golfer can access the tools that their instructor uses while they practice for a fraction of the cost. Our favorite part is that you can play skills games to make practice more fun while analyzing your ball flight on the smallest launch monitor on the market today.
GameGolf
The golf world is in for a treat with the first ever digital tracking system that affords its owner with the on course stats and trends that players on tour receive. Our favorite part is the simplicity in this game-changing device. Before each shot tap the tag that you have installed on the top of each grip to the wearable clip on your person. From there your game is automatically tracked. After your round see the locations and distances you hit shots from, share it with friends or even competitors and compare the trends in your game over time to realize the areas that have improved or need to be worked on.
Leupold Golf Range Finders
The GX Rangefinder family grew this year with the addition of the GX-4i2, which is packed with every stroke saving technology designed to improve your game and pace of play. This device has two faceplates with one being USGA legal and the other unlocking the True Golf Range and Club Selector technology that for the first time in history allows you to customize your range finder to your ball striking abilities. TGR factors in slope, altitude, temperature and more to select the club for you just like your caddy would. The best of both worlds in one range finder!
New England Golf Monthly App
Our Free golf GPS & Course Finder app can reward you with awesome prizes the more you use it. Register for a chance to win Gimmies, read current news or our latest issues and share your round socially. Look for live scoring and a social feed in the near future. Push notifications will keep you in the know on deals and chances to win! There are also many great apps out there and we encourage you to view our suggested app page online as often as it will be updated with new apps for you to consider downloading.
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As Seen On The GOLF CHANNEL
TRAINING AIDS // by Greg Sampson
Game Improvement in 2014 with
GolfTrainingAids.com Over the past few years I have featured some of the best training aids on the market such as my favorite of all time, the Orange Whip Trainer and in 2014 you can expect the same. In a partnership with GolfTrainingAids.com we will bring you the tools to improve various aspects of your game from fitness, to setup, to stroke and the full swing. Here is a preview of some of the aids we are considering for the 2014 season after our trip to the PGA Show this past January. See you on the range!
Chip It Rite
From the makers of the popular Grip It Rite comes a short game tool for the masses. The days of the flip chip could be over for you from frequent practice with this chipping brace. The unit is fully adjustable, however is currently only available for right-handed players.
EyeLoc Head Gear
BenderStik
Designed by the instructor of one of the hottest players in game today, the BenderStik provides a golfer with a versatile training aid that can perform the tasks your coach would normally do while you practice alone. With one tool from your bag you can practice your swing path, keep your head still. The device provides you with the feedback you need to improve the aspects of your game you need to work on.
The short game consists of the majority of strokes we take in a round of golf and a steady concentration is the single key to decrease them. This breakthrough training tool helps make sure your head stays still to make your eyes focus more precisely. Slide the lenses back and forth
The World’s Largest Selection of Golf Teaching and Training Aids 86 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | March 2014
to sharper levels of focus more and over time, watch your score drop.
Golfer’s Toolbox
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive training aid this is the one. The “Swiss Army Knife of golf” is an aluminum tube with a grip on both ends that stores rods & spikes. By configuring them in different ways Golfer’s Toolbox can be used to practice putting, tempo, fitness, alignment, ball position, swing plane and more. A camera can even be mounted to the top and it doubles as a club protector when you travel. You have to own one to truly understand the benefits.
Mark-It
When this special powder is sprayed onto any of your club faces the impact position in relation to the clubs path and angle of attack can be easily analyzed. One can easily tell if they are coming from the inside, too steep or even need a lower compression golf ball. The spray is completely green, as it does not damage your equipment or the environment.
Perfect Pitch Golf
We have all placed rods and tees down to teach ourselves or help others with the setup of a chip, pitch or flop. Now there is a practice mat that does all this for you. Engrain the proper alignment, stance width, ball position and even how far you should stand from the ball. They also debuted their Putter Cube this season, which we are excited to test on the greens. This short game training aid company gets it, Keep It Simple!
If you would like your training aid reviewed or have a suggested tool to look at for consideration in Sampson’s Spotlight please email greg@nepubinc.com. Why not be in GolfTrainingAids.com this season?
Enter Promo Code NEGMFREE For Complimentary Shipping. *Within the United States
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Equipment REVIEW // by Ed Travis
Equipment for the 2014 Season
If purchase of new equipment is in your plans, New England Golf Monthly is your source for information to start planning your purchase. During the year we will cover the latest and greatest from manufacturers starting with drivers in April, moving on to bags and push carts in May and for June the hottest irons on the market. Wedges and putters follow in July, fairways and hybrids in August and September completes the year with balls and gloves. Here are our favorite companies and some of the products we will be writing about. Look for them also on the ballot for New England Golf Monthly’s Equipment awards in the fall. Make sure you try out as many as you can to be ready when it’s time to cast your vote -- and perhaps win one of the many great prizes!
Adams Golf
Tight Lies, the name of the club model that gave Adams their first huge success, is back in a new line of low profile fairways making use of the crown and sole slots Adams pioneered. Hybrids from Adams are just about everybody’s favorites and this year look for improvements including a new slot design in the Idea model along with a repositioning of weight to help average players get the ball airborne. The XTD Ti hybrid has had the brazing of the titanium face to the body improved and the new Pro hybrid has a smaller clubhead with crown and sole slots behind the high strength steel face.
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Alphard Golf
The Duo Cart ($329.95) has been out awhile but that doesn’t make it any less attractive to users of push carts. Perhaps the most outstanding feature is the two simple hydraulically-assisted steps it takes to set up. The integrated golf bag comes in either red, navy or black. Alphard also has an addition to its lineup for 2014, the Agile Stand Bag which lists for $149.95. There’s a choice of 11 or 14 full length dividers and a generous eight pockets plus an adjustable double shoulder strap. Look for nice little features such as a secure range finder pocket and should the mood strike you, the Agile can change its color by changing its skin. Replaceable skins come in either black red or navy.
Axis1
Axis 1 putters have the center of gravity on the clubface, right at the sweet spot, rather than as with other putters behind the clubface. By moving the weight in the heel forward and by using the double bent shaft the putters are free of a tendency to open at impact as other putters. There are three blade models, the Eagle, Joey and Joey C plus what Axis calls a modern mallet, the Umbra.
Bag Boy
If you like walking the Bag Boy C3 model push cart is not a trunk space hog. It’s really compact and in fact folds down to 21½ inches by 13 inches by 18 inches. However, even though its compact folded, unfolded there are several features that caught our attention. First was the price, which at $200 is easy on the budget but not to be overlooked is the one-step handle adjustment or the handle mounted parking brake. The C3 also accommodates either a stand bag or cart bag because the upper bracket has easy-to-adjust support arms. It even comes in a choice of colors, either matte black, silver/ black, white/yellow or navy/white.
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Bettinardi Putters
Bob Bettinardi designs and manufactures some of the most sought after putters and is riding high after signing Matt Kuchar to an endorsement agreement with Kuchar then winning at the RBC Canadian Open with the Model 1 Arm Lock Putter. The BB series is also well received and the series has three models that are counterbalanced.
Bridgestone Golf
Bridgestone has become a real player in the ball market with a stress on ball fitting and being upfront with consumers by pushing two models of their B-330 line – one for swing speeds over 105 mph and one for swing speed under 105. The Tour B 330, Tour B 330-S, Tour B 330-RX and Tour B 300-RXS all make use of Bridgestone’s new “Hydro Core” for better gradation of the core that translates into more distance and control. They are also coming out with their first ever line of putters and they aren’t exactly conventional with an ultralight grip and graphite shaft in a counterbalance model targeted at players needing to switch due to the ban of anchored putting strokes.
Callaway Golf
The new year brings back an iconic name for Callaway, Big Bertha. There are two models, the Alpha for better players with a carbon tube in the sole to adjust ball back spin and the regular model with an 8-gram sliding weight to provide a fade or draw bias. Apex another name from the past is on their new forged irons and the “Phrankenwood” used by Phil Mickelson in his victory at the British Open last year is reborn as part of the X2 Hot model line. Callaway’s Odyssey Putter division is still the best selling putter and has updated versions of the White Hot, Versa and Metal-X models.
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Cleveland Golf
Cleveland is all about wedges and the new Smart Sole wedges have a very wide sole to make them easy to hit and keep the club from digging into the ground or sand. The C model is specifically for chipping and the S model for sand shots. The Cleveland 588 RTX wedge series has grooves engineered to be right at the allowable limit for distance control especially with shots from long grass. The Rotex milling on the RTX puts angled curves on the face and there are laser cut lines between the grooves to increase the face roughness.
ClubGlove
Makers of the protection thousands rely on for their clubs when travelling is pushing the handy feature that their rolling suitcases and duffels hook conveniently to the club carrier.
Cobra Golf
Cobra has resigned Greg Norman as an endorser and the Shark will be playing the new BiO Cell+ driver with multi-material construction and their MyFly8 adjustable loft. And another former big name the Baffler, the much-praised utility club name, has been brought back by Cobra as the Baffler XL for a line of men’s and women’s drivers, fairways, hybrids and irons each being easily identifiable sporting a Legion Blue clubhead color scheme.
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Hopkins Golf
Owner Greg Hopkins left Cleveland Golf to start his own company specializing in wedges sold directly to consumers bypassing distributors and golf shops so pricing for these 100 percent custom made clubs is still within the reach of most golfers.
Mizuno Golf
Mizuno’s reputation is for making quality irons and for this season has three new sets worth considering. For recreational players with 10 handicaps and higher there are the JPZ EZ Forged irons, a game-improvement design with an undercut cavity. For better players, handicaps up to 12, the MP-54 model are a stepped muscle design with extra thickness behind the face. Forged from a single steel billet with a milled pocket in the 3through 7-iron, the 8-iron through pitching wedge have a muscle back design. Mizuno MP-4s have a pure muscle back construction, a thin topline and virtually no offset and are aimed at better players wanting to have the best in trajectory control and maneuverability. Short irons have more face bulge than the long irons and the 8-PW have a slightly smaller head than previous MP series irons
Nike Golf
The VR_S Covert 2.0 line of drivers, fairways and hybrids all have cavities in the sole for more distance and forgiveness and there’s a Tour model designed to produce the lower spin shots better players desire. The VR_S Covert 2.0 irons have a cast model and there’s the VR-S Covert Forged, both with input from their touring pro endorsers. The new RZN ball series includes the Black and Platinum, both 4-piece construction for high swing speed players, and the Red and White for slower swinging recreational players. Nike’s Method MOD line of putters have also generated some comment from the soft polymer behind the face that dampens vibration and skid-minimizing grooves on the face.
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Ping Golf
Ping always has something new in the way of putters and have applied their variable grooves construction to a number of their most popular models such as the blades Scottsdale and Karsten and mallets Nome and Scottsdale Craz-E. Look for the high launching G25 driver on Tour with its high MOI providing forgiveness on mishits and there’s also the new i25 model with distinctive alignment stripes on the head. The Karsten model irons are a nice combo-set with 3-, 4-, and 5-hybrids or you could try the new G25 model irons with progressive sole widths ideal for slower swing speed players.
Powerbilt Golf
Another of golf’s stalwart companies, PowerBilt has come out with a new model of the Air Force One Series of drivers, the DFX and there are complementing fairways, hybrids and irons with the same brand name. The “DF” stands for Deep-Face an improvement to aid in off center hits and the clubhead is still charged with nitrogen gas under pressure to improve distance.
TaylorMade
TMaG continues to dominate the equipment business with the most popular metalwoods, hybrids and irons. A new driver, the Jetspeed, compliments the popular SLDR but without the sliding weight in the sole. Jetspeed does make use of the low spin-low trajectory bias design though that sent last year’s SLDR to the top of the charts. Their iron offering is called SpeedBlades, an updating of the RocketBladez that captured such a large share of the iron market last year. SpeedBlades make use of larger slot behind the clubface in the 3- through 7-iron to further help launch angle and distance. TaylorMade continues to push in the ball market with two new models, the Tour Preferred for high swing speed players and the Project (a) for recreational players.
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Titleist
Titleist has four revamped irons for 2014 the 714 MB, CB, AP1 and AP2 each with improvements on the previous models of the 712 series. Masters Champion Adam Scott played a role in the design of the Scotty Cameron Futura X putter and they are also featuring the Select GOLO 5 model with a sound ring on the inside. Pay special attention to the Scotty Cameron Select Newport, a redo of an old favorite. Vokey wedges have new models in the SM (Spin Milled) series with groove patterns that change with the wedge loft. The SM5 lofts run from 46 to 62 degrees and there are six sole grinds making for a possible 21 combinations of loft and bounce.
SCOR Golf
SCOR makes what they call “scoring clubs” to replace wedges and short irons with lofts between 41 and 61 degrees and special shafts made just for their wedges.
Sun Mountain
A very attractive choice if your are looking for a walking cart is the Speed Cart Push Cart V1 Sport from Sun Mountain, a new version of their popular Speed Cart push cart. The V1 has an improved design to make unfolding easier and an updated pin brake system replacing the old caliper brake. The quick release latch is very handy as is the weight at only 17 pounds. The V1 is in stores now at a suggested retail of $199 in either white/lime, silver/pink, black, blue, gunmetal/red, silver or gunmetal/orange. The company’s stand and cart bags are great values plus their 4-wheel Club Glider is a blessing when you have the hassle of getting your clubs through the airport.
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Tour Edge Golf
Tour Edge continues its business plan to make clubs with the latest technology and materials and sell them at prices below other major manufacturers. The new season sees the Exotics XCG7 models with the driver coming in a choice of 460cc clubhead or the Beta at 440cc. Most drivers today are user adjustable and the SCG7 is for loft – 8.5 to 12 degrees. At the top of the Exotics line is the CB Pro fairway wood with a special sole to minimizes turf drag of the somewhat retro-looking clubhead at impact. Matched with a high end Speeder shaft, the CB pro is long and retails for $499.99.
Volvik
Volvik launched their new Vista iS golf ball at the PGA Merchandise Show in January. Known as the makers of colored golf balls, the iS is a softer covered version of the iV 4-piece ball made for better players. The other models Volvik offers are the Crystal, a 4-piece colored ball, the Pro Bismuth a premium 3-piece construction and the Lady 350 for women with lower swing speeds. They recently signed New England native, Tim Petrovic to their Tour staff.
Wilson Golf
Celebrating their 100th year in business and 61 major championships Wilson is bringing to market a couple of very interesting clubs, the FG Tour 100 forged irons and perhaps the classic putter to end all classics, the 8802. Also look for the forged FG Tour M3 irons, Wilson Staff C100 irons and D100 irons as well as the new D100 ES hybrid-iron set. And they have a new golf entry targeted for advanced players, the new FG Tour. This 4-piece construction has the Wilson 318-dimple pattern and is a 70 compression to give better players the softness they prefer.
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The Game Improvement Trifecta for Golfers
Joe & Leigh’s Golf Shop, Performance Center & Pine Oaks GC
There are few places in New England golf where you can be fitted for the perfect clubs on the most advanced systems in the world, buy the clubs and practice and test them at the same facility. Joe & Leigh’s Golf Shop, Golf Performance Center and the Pine Oaks Golf Course make the perfect “Golf Trifecta” and operate one of the largest pro shops in the country on a golf course. Golf may be a game of tradition, but golf retailing today is anything but. The continued presence of big-box stores and online entities selling golf products has required professionals, merchandisers and specialty-store owners to become increasingly innovative in what is now a big business. The Joe & Leigh’s staff is committed to expertly fitting both your game and your wallet, so that whatever level player you may be, you end up with the right club for you and a real value. Cool game, Cool Place. Joe & Leigh’s Discount Golf Pro Shop at The Pine Oaks Golf
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Course has undergone 3 major expansions in recent years, and now totals nearly 8,000 square feet filled with the leading brands in golf, all at exceptional value. That makes it one of the two largest pro shops on a golf course in the entire country! We think of our golf course as an amusement park and our pro shop as a toy store. We go to great lengths to stay on top of what’s happening in the industry so that there will be something new to see when you stop by for a visit. Our goal is to “Make a friend, not a sale!”. Whether you are a seasoned player, just taking up the game or a junior looking to get into the right clubs to learn the game we can help. Our team is committed to helping you find the right equipment for your individual ability and needs. For the 18th time, GOLF WORLD MAGAZINE names Joe & Leigh’s Discount Golf Pro Shop to it’s Elite list of the TOP 100 Golf Shops in America 2013! . Visit Us at Joe & Leigh’s Golf Shop 68 Prospect Street S. Easton, MA or call 508-238-2320.
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A WINNING COMBINATION
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1st Prize Bettinardi Putter 2nd Prize Hopkins Golf Wedges 3rd Prize NEGM Hat & Windshirt
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WHAT’S NEWS | MARCH 2014 New England Golf Monthly Top 25 Awards Coming in May Best Public Courses, Private Courses, Par 3 Courses, Resorts, Practice Facilities, & Instructors Voted. on by The Readers New England Golf Monthly our Editorial Staff and Golf Advisors From 2013, the #1 Public Course was voted Newport National (RI). Newport National, designed by Arthur Hills, has been voted #1 Public Course for 4 consecutive years. The course is well known for its dramatic setting and location on the shores of beautiful Aquidneck Island and near Sakonnet River coastline. It is an incredible course that provides golfers with challenge, beauty, and experience. For private courses in New England The TPC Boston in Norton,MA was named #1 Private Course.
To vote for your favorites go to /www.mynegm.com
Former MGA Champion Jim Renner - Winner of the 2008 Massachusetts Open Champion - Posts Best Career PGA Tour Finish at Pebble Beach It was a remarkable and memorable weekend for one former MGA Champion. In front of a national television audience and alongside a field of the world’s top professional players, Jim Renner - the 2008 Massachusetts Open Champion – posted a T2 finish at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. (click here to read a recent MGA Blogspot posting about Jim) He opened up the tournament with a sizzling round of 65 and then capped off the experience with a Sunday round that featured seven birdies. He started the final round eight strokes back and in a six-way tie for fifth. It marked his best finish on the PGA Tour as he took home a check for $580,800 and earned 245 FedEx Cup Points. He now ranks 33rd in Money Leaders on the PGA Tour.
Jesse Menachem Settling in to Top Job at MGA The conventional thinking these days is that current college graduates are likely to have more than a dozen jobs throughout their lifetimes. They way Jesse Menachem’s career path is going, he might have only one. Menachem, who was selected as the executive director of the MGA last October following the departure of Joe Sprague to the USGA, has worked for the organization since the summer following his freshman year in college. He worked as a USGA P.J. Boatwright, Jr. Intern during the summers of 2005-2007 while he pursued a joint program in business and sports communications at Indiana University, where he was a Francis Ouimet Scholar. Following graduation, Menachem was hired full-time by the MGA and eventually assumed the role of Director of Rules & Competitions. Given Menachem’s rapid rise through the ranks of the MGA and his understanding of the organization from starting at the ground level, it is unlikely that the MGA’s smooth operations will miss a beat under his leadership. Maybe the only question is whether Menachem will ever have another job interview.
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WHAT’S NEWS | MARCH 2014 360 Sports named as a Title Sponsor of North American Pro Golf Tour A new title sponsor for the North American Pro Golf Tour has been announced. The NAPGT announced 360 Sports Agency as their title sponsor in a deal that will run from 2014 to 2017. Coming back from a several year hiatus, the tour featured many of the top players in the game, These are just a few of the successes that have come our way Sean O’Hair, 2005 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, Geoffrey Sisk, over $300k in NAPGT events made, Nationwide Tour Card 2008, 5 Time US Open Participant, 6 Time Massachusetts Open Champion, Rick Karbowski, 2006 Champions Tour Member, Kyle Gallo 2005/2006 Nationwide Member, John Elliot, Nationwide member, Rob Oppenheim, 2011/2013 Web.com member including current and future Tour professionals on pace to make it to the next level. The Tour will be known as the North American Pro Golf Tour sponsored by 360 Sports, with the first of 10 events beginning this spring and running through the summer. For information go to naprogolftour.com
NECMA Annual Spring CMI Workshop “Taking Ownership of Leadership In Your Own Life” April 6-7, 2014 The Woodlands Club, Falmouth, Maine Guest Speaker: Bryan Dodge CANNOT ATTEND? LIVE BROADCAST NECMA Education and Business Meetings are now broadcasted live. If you are unable to attend, you may watch the event on your computer or mobile device by going to the web page http://www.necma.org or the NECMA YouTube channel. NECMA Education and Business Meeting video recordings are archived and found on the NECMA YouTube channel.
The Connecticut Section Nominates Suzy Whaley as a Candidate for the Office of Secretary of The PGA of America The Connecticut Section PGA Board of Directors has officially nominated PGA Professional Suzy Whaley as a candidate seeking the office of Secretary of The PGA of America. Whaley, who is coming off serving a three-year term as the District 1 Director on the Association Board of Directors, received the section’s endorsement at last month’s Board of Directors meeting. “Our section board and past presidents feel strongly that Suzy would be a passionate leader of our Association,” said Section President Mike O’Grady, the head golf professional at Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston, Conn. “We are proud to nominate her for this office and we welcome the challenge of helping her achieve this goal.”
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Fairways Lifestyle & Living //
b y NEGM Staff
Bay Club Mattapoisett If you love golf than nothing is better than living on a golf course for your first or second home. New England offers great choices for golf course communities on some of the regions finest facilities, and when it comes to vacation and second homes the world is your oyster as choices are literally endless. In New England there are wonderful facilities scattered throughout the northeast states some of which even offer 4 season activities besides golf. The Bay Club in Mattapoisett offers one of the best golf course community experiences in New England with a pristine facility located just off Cape Cod in Southeastern, MA. The homes and facilities are simply magnificent and the club offers a full slate of activities besides one of the finest private golf facilities in New England. White Cliffs in Plymouth, MA is a great waterfront community that is an affordable popular choice on the South Shore. In the south there are great choices in Florida, the Carolina’s and Georgia that offer endless choices in all price points. The Robb Report named Reynolds Plantation the “Best
Reynolds Plantation
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of the Best” Golf Community. Reynolds Plantation is located between Augusta and Atlanta, is situated on 19,000 acres along 374 miles of shoreline on Lake Oconee. Known as a vacation and retirement destination for affluent Atlantans, Reynolds has a lot to offer its more than 3,500 owners besides a whopping six golf courses. Internationally Tuckers Point Bermuda one of the world’s most magnificent destinations has launched a new fractional ownership for 5-week ownership in luxury villas for only $199,500 for 2-3 bedrooms in private residence club. Owning property in Bermuda was once literally imposTuckers Point Bermuda sible and only available to a very privileged few. Today programs like Tuckers Point have given so many more access to the beautiful island of Bermuda through creative options. In almost all cases finding a home on or abutting a private country club is always a better value in the long run. Golf Courses are great neighbors and 100 + acres of well maintained park like property abutting your home creates a wonderful environment for living and enjoying the great game of golf. Golf is a sport unlike any other that you may play well into retirement years and enjoy time on the course with family and friends.
A NEW DIMENSION IN CONDOMINIUM LIVING
• Luxurious Single Family and Duplex Homes. Energy Star Certified Homes • Private Driveways, Entrances and Decks With Two or Three Car Garages • Eight Models Most With First Floor Master Suites and Studies, 2,400 to 3,500 sf
The Villas At Pleasant Valley Offers The Privacy And Solitude Of Single Family Home Ownership With Many Benefits
• Opulently Appointed Interiors with Fireplaces, Granite, Custom Kitchens & Hardwoods • Beautiful Views of The Majestic Fairways of Pleasant Valley Country Club • Located 25 Minutes From Natick and 40 Minutes From Boston and Providence • Priced From The High $500’s
Come Visit Us To Experience The Lifestyle Of Your Dreams Furnished Model Open Daily 12 to 5 p.m. 69 Clubhouse Way, Sutton MA
508.865.1110
www.villaspv.com
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Reynolds Plantation, Greensboro, Georgia //
by Katharine Dyson
Where Your Heart Can Play and Your Spirit Can Escape
N
amed “Best of the Best” Golf Community by the Robb Report, Reynolds Plantation located between Augusta and Atlanta, is situated on 19,000 acres along 374 miles of shoreline on Lake Oconee. Known as a vacation and retirement destination for affluent Atlantans, Reynolds has a lot to offer its more than 3,500 owners besides a whopping six golf courses. Lake Oconee is enormous in size and offers a full range of lakeside activities. The Landing by Bob Cupp host to the 2008 PGA Professional National Championship opened in 1986 followed by Cupp’s Plantation Course two years later. Playing around
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Lake Oconee, Great Waters, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course (1992) underwent a major renovation in 2010 and Tom Fazio’s The National opened in 1997. Rees Jones’ The Oconee followed the next year and is located adjacent to the Ritz-Carlton Lodge and the striking Creek Club by Jim Engh (2007) a members-only club. The Reynolds Golf Academy led by Charlie King one of Golf Digest’s “50 Best Teachers” along with The TaylorMade Kingdom, a stateof-the-art club fitting system, round out the golf amenities. This ultimate club fitting experience is one of only two Kingdom locations
in the world and was previously only accessible to TaylorMade Tour players. Now, that experience has been opened up to include residents and guests of Reynolds Plantation. They use advanced swing analysis technology, fit you personally for the ideal clubs for your swing, and can actually build your custom clubs on-site. Home ownership is affordable for both golfers and non-golfers and fees and taxes are reasonably priced and offer all-inclusive amenities that make Reynolds very attractive. New Home lots range from as little as $45,000, some of which are on the courses and homes from the low 300’s on up to 3-4 million dollar estate homes. Members can relax by the pools, take an aerobics class and enjoy outdoor sports and shows. Anglers can experience some of the state’s best fishing and boaters can take advantage of four full-service marinas. Members of the club (attained via property ownership and initiation fee) can use The Lake Club Wellness Center and Tennis Center with an indoor and two outdoor pools, 16 tennis courts and fitness center, five clubhouses and six world-class restaurants. Reynolds Plantation has mastered being
one of the world finest residential communities and a world-class resort as well. One compliments the other perfectly and offers resort guest a real opportunity to feel what it’s like to be part of the community. Since MetLife acquired Reynolds Plantation in 2012, this vast property has been revitalized with a new energy as renovations and enhancements have been implemented. Real estate closings are up 75% on all aspects of homes from cottages to premium lake lots. New home starts are up as well with buyers ranging from young families to retirees. With more than 3,000 members, golf course rounds are increasing and renovations of The Landing and Oconee course have been completed. Visitors can book into an on-site cottage or the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, a 251-room lakefront resort and spa. One of the truly great aspects of both owning and vacationing at Reynolds Plantation is it is only 75 miles from the one of the largest international airports in the world. There is something for everyone at Reynolds Plantation whether you are looking for a great vacation, a second home, or an exceptional primary residence. Take a peek at your next destination by visiting reynoldsplantation.com
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Custom Wine Cellars And Humidors Since 1994, Vintage Makers has been designing, building, and installing wine cellars. We have recently formed Smokin’ Betty’s Cigars to pair our quality in climate controlled humidors with the offering of premium hand rolled cigars. Ask about our Cigar Consignment Program for retailers or our quality climate controlled humidors for the cigar aficionado. Our commitment to excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction has been our foundation and our trademark.
Vintage Makers Consult
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15 Park Avenue Hudson, NH 03051 Ph. (800) 246-0150 www.SmokinBettysCigars.com
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myNEGM.com
March 2014 Vol VII Issue I
Editor / Publisher
Timothy R. Branco tim@nepubinc.com
Reach Over 500,000 New England Golfers Monthly
Graphic Design & Production
Chris Hunter
CollectiveThoughtMedia.com
Administration
Mary L. Hullett
mary@nepubinc.com
Tom Gorman Contributors Tim Geary John Molori Pam Borges Alice Scott Bob DiCesare Laura Ebrecht Robert Martin Steve Riggs Kathleen Dyson Jeff Palopoli Matt Adams Emily Kay Jim Hammond Jack Ross Ed Travis Danny Scott Matt Hoeske Leigh McKay Becky Blaser Elisa Gaudet Greg Sampson Matt Ward
PGA Tour Photographer
Ken Dennis
kendennisphoto.com
Elle Brec
Fashion Writer elle@golffashionweekly.com
Sales & Marketing
Greg Sampson - Manager
greg@nepubinc.com
New England Golf Monthly is published 10 times yearly by The New England Publishing Group Inc. Reproduction of the contents, images and editorial is strictly prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Neither advertiser or publisher will be held liable for errors or omissions in any content of this publication. All rights reserved.
For product marketing, distribution and/or direct mail information contact tim@nepubinc.com
Play Like The Pro’s At The The 2014 Ironman Golf Invitational Tournament At The TPC Boston May 27th, 2014 Turning The Kids of Today Into The Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow
A Full Day of Golf 36 Holes | Full Locker Room And Range Access Breakfast/ Lunch/Awards Dinner | Ryder Cup Format Call Today to Reserve Your Spot in 2014 (Limited to Only 72 players for the Event)
Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts E-Mail - Caroline Paradis caroline.paradis@ja.org or Call 508-997-6536 | southernmass.ja.org * Each Ironman Player Raises a Min of $750 to help
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Gorman vs. Geary // by Tom Gorman
For a change, let’s begin the 2014 season on a mixed note: rumors of my involuntary termination from NEGM have been exaggerated. After spending the last few weeks shopping my resume to the big boys - Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf Magazine – the answer is the same as it’s always been, “Thanks, but no thanks.” If you’re reading this now, like it or not, I’m back. Not by popular demand but rather due to lack of talent to work for a national publication, and still offering readers another year of stimulating debate with resident golf-dope, Timothy Geary. Also, golf aficionados, be warned, I’m as cranky and cynical as ever, and, there’s a long list of people and places on my radar screen I can’t wait to vent about. They don’t call me Mr. Negative for nothing! Who would have thought that after being on the losing end of six punishing seasons of debate that Timmy G would return for more crossfire. Isn’t it time for him to hang up his keyboard or seek out another sparring partner? As an equal opportunity golf critic nothing is sacred in 2014. My new mission statement is to call out the phonies, the spin meisters, the greedy golf manufacturers and other golf officials guilty of dereliction of duty or gouging public golfers. If a golf company tries to sell me another “revolutionary new product” then pass the puke bucket please. No one I know is getting any better because of new golf clubs. They buy new
equipment and strike the ball better but their handicap remains the same. Why does that happen? Because golf has a dirty, little secret. The game is loaded with cheaters; players who intentionally maintain handicaps that are higher than their average scores. Sandbaggers are cheaters, and they are ruining the game, and clubs are not taking action to fix this problem. You want ugly, then sandbagging is the No. 1 sin. stands at 14,565. Golf industry consultant James Koppenhaver, Pellucid Corp said, “The number of rounds in 2013 totaled 462 million, which is down five per cent, from the record year of 2012. Avid golfers, who play more than 40-plus rounds, have declined 25 percent in the last decade. Golfers are like farmers, when the weather is good we are out, when weather is bad our participation rate is down.” Koppenhaver predicts that the sports’ 25 million participants will remain steady through 2020, contrary to the PGA of America’s wild estimate to grow the game to 40 million. Another sign the golf industry is in a slump is the fact that the Arnold Palmer Golf Course Design Company, which once employed 25 fulltime staff, has been downsized to two employees. And, the Greg Norman Golf Course Design Company laid off half its staff. Good golf headlines in 2014 include Jim Renner, James Driscoll, Megan Khang, GolfNow. com, Ouimet Fund, Junior Golf and, of course, the greatest player of all time, Tiger. Controversy swirls over long putters, slow play, rules, expensive green fees, the golf ball,distance measuring devices, excessive chatter watching televised golf, out-of-state amateurs playing in the Mass Amateur and USGA buffoonery, like setting up the back nine at the U.S. Amateur at The Country Club to measure 3,960-yards. To their credit, last summer the USGA rolled out one the best public service advertisement’s ever involving slow play. We can only hope the “While We’re Young” message is connecting with slow players! Tom Gorman, a golf writer since 1992, is an AAA golfer: avid, angry, awful.
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly in Golf in 2014!
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Gorman vs. Geary // by Tim Geary
Fore! It’s the dawn of a new golf season here in New England, where expectations will never be higher, the clubs never cleaner and the desire to tee it up will never burn as passionately. Unless you are among those with enough disposable income to afford a mid-winter trip to someplace warm, you have been cooped up without golf for at least three to four months and all those negative vibes that had built up over the course of last year have been purged from your golfing soul. Our tee off edition of NEGM, perhaps the only one where Gorman and I don’t try to insult each other into oblivion (although I’m sure he’ll make an amateurish shot at me in this month’s edition because it’s part of his DNA), is devoted to speculating about what is going to be good, bad and ugly about the 2014 season. First the good. Number one is the fact that golf is back, we have plenty of great courses to play, equipment continues to evolve and our love for the game remains steadfast. Then there is the PGA Tour where the depth of fields continues to improve with more and more good, young and exciting players, making it more and more difficult for anyone person to dominate. Globally golf continues to grow. Courses are being built everywhere. China, for example is beginning to see a boom in golf as more and more courses are built. We’re beginning to see young Chinese players emerge on the world stage.
More and more junior programs are emerging around the country, attempting to grow the game, making it available to those who just a couple of decades ago would never have even dreamed of having the opportunity to pick up a club. Golf remains one of the best ways to interact, exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, all while playing against an unrelenting opponent – yourself. But there are aspects that are not so sunny. The amount of people giving up the game continues to grow, for a variety of reasons. Secondly is the increasing length of play. It seems that people get slower and slower each year and therein lies the Catch 22. Many give up the game because they can’t spend five hours on the golf course and if clubs and resorts enforce quicker play it often leads to people vowing to never return. Neither is good for business. Thirdly is the continued erosion of the LPGA. For whatever reason interest in the LPGA seems to diminish each year. Fewer and fewer tournaments, little television coverage and dwindling sponsorships have hurt the ladies now for the past decade and the trend appears to be continuing. Fourth is the evolution and rising cost of golf equipment. The length that balls now travel, both because of the technology in the clubs and the balls themselves, has made so many of the great courses obsolete. Finally, the ugly. The clear winners remain my scorecard, Gorman’s swing, the preponderance of people riding instead of walking the course, and Ian Poulter’s pants. On the pro tours the billboard like attire of the players and the signage everywhere dilutes the pure beauty of a golf course. Necessary to the financial health of those tours but it’s still ugly. So get ‘em shined up and ready to go. There’s more good than bad out there and remember to follow Arnie’s advice and swing your swing. Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. This will be is 44th golf season
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800.800.GOLF (4653) 114 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | March 2014
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TO GOLF’S GREATEST ARTISTS, THIS PLACE IS A CANVAS. To our residents, it’s a masterpiece.
Reynolds Plantation features 374 miles of Lake Oconee shoreline and six spectacular golf courses crafted by the likes of Nicklaus, Fazio, Jones, Cupp and Engh. Add the swing analysis and club fitting at The TaylorMade Kingdom and personalized instruction at The Reynolds Golf Academy, and you have an all-encompassing golf experience just 80 miles east of Atlanta. Book your di scove r y pack age at D I S C O V E R R E Y N O L D S . C O M or HOMESITES UNDER $100K TO $1.5M+
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Real estate and other amenities are owned by Oconee Land Development Company LLC and/or other subsidiaries and affiliates of MetLife, Inc. (collectively, “OLDC”) and by unrelated third parties. MetLife is not the owner of Reynolds Plantation. Reynolds Plantation Properties, LLC (“RPP”) is the exclusive listing agent for OLDC-owned properties in Reynolds Plantation. RPP also represents buyers and sellers of properties in Reynolds Plantation which OLDC does not own (“Resale Properties”). OLDC is not involved in the marketing or sale of Resale Properties. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy OLDC-owned real estate in Reynolds Plantation by residents of HI, ID, NY, OR, or any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No offering of OLDC-owned properties can be made to residents of New York until an offering plan is filed with the Department of Law of the State of New York. As to such states, any offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy applies only to Resale Properties. Access and rights to recreational amenities may be subject to fees, membership dues, or other limitations. Information provided is believed accurate as of the date printed but may be subject to change from time to time. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge is a private commercial enterprise and use of the facilities is subject to the applicable fees and policies of the operator.
For OLDC properties, obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Void where prohibited by law. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR DISQUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. An offering statement has been filed with the Iowa Real Estate Commission and a copy of such statement is available from OLDC upon request. OLDC properties have been registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen at 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, Massachusetts 021186100 and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection at 1700 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20552.