May 2016

2016

JUNIOR GOLF & TECHNOLOGY GUIDE

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Featured Course of the Month Maynard Golf Course | 978-637-2268 50 Brown St. Maynard, MA

Nestled in the beautiful New England countryside, this par 70, 9-hole course was originally designed in 1921 by Wayne Stiles in the Donald Ross tradition. It is professionally maintained to provide an outstanding golf experience. The clubhouse offers a comfortable atmosphere with a full-service bar, recently renovated function room with plenty of tables and chairs, pro shop and outside deck overlooking the course.

As with all Sterling Golf managed courses, we strive to provide the public with superior customer service and great golf in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. The clubhouse is open every day, so stop in to check out the facilities and meet our staff. You can also purchase a Sterling Golf Gift Card which can be used at any of our nine managed courses. They make a GREAT gift for your favorite golfer!

9 Hole Courses

18 Hole Courses

Chelmsford CC | 978-256-1818 66 Park Rd. Chelmsford, MA

Newton Commonwealth | 617-630-1971 212 Kenrick St. Newton, MA

Maynard GC | 978-637-2268 50 Brown St. Maynard, MA

Norwood CC | 781-769-5880 400 Providence Hwy. Norwood, MA

Unicorn GC | 781-438-9732 460 William St. Stoneham, MA

Rockland GC | 781-871-0480 276 Plain St. Rt 139, Rockland MA

Stoneham Oaks GC | 781-438-7888 101R Montvale Ave. Stoneham, MA

The Shattuck GC | 603-532-4300 53 Dublin Rd. Jaffrey, NH

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Winchendon GC | 978-297-9897 435 Spring St. Winchendon, MA

All Nine Courses Operated by Sterling Golf Management

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PLAY. STAY. LIVE. LEARN.

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• • • • • • •

•

Ranked as One of America’s Top Golf Resorts PGA Golf Club courses ranked in Golf Digest 2015 Top 75 Florida Courses Dye Course Ranked 19th; Wanamaker Course 32nd; Ryder Course T34th Newly Expanded and Renovated Clubhouse Visit the Four Major Championship Trophies at the PGA Gallery, within the Clubhouse Many accommodation choices available in Port St. Lucie, all in close proximity to PGA Golf Club & St. Lucie Trail Golf Club PGA Village Verano offers all-inclusive, full-service, luxury resort-style living.

New, 2 & 3-bedroom, single-family homes available.

The PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance combines on-course instruction, golf-specific technology, practical application, specialized club and equipment fittings. Golf Schools starting from $500.

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FROM THE EDITOR

A Difficult Game to Master I started playing golf a bit late in life like many boomers. I was short on time and long on career goals through my 20’s and 30’s so around 40 I joined my first private club and began my golf journey. Except for a few lessons here and there and constant tips from friends, I really have never taken formal lessons. I have played to around a 10 handicap but with age and health issues I have settled into a 15 + index for some time now. It always seems players who took the game up at a young age have something I am always chasing. They have set routines and have developed better muscle memory and ball striking ability.

The average 18-hole score for the average golfer remains at about 100, as it has for decades, according to the National Golf Foundation. Among more serious recreational golfers who register their scores with the U.S. Golf Association, the average handicap index, a scoring tool, has dropped 0.5 strokes since 2000 to 93.5. On the PGA Tour this year, the average score of players has risen by 0.28 strokes compared with 10 years ago.

Today starts the first day of my challenge to reduce my handicap to a single digit or less than a 10 index. I will be working with one of the most respected Class A PGA Instructors in New England, Mike Harbour at his new East Bay Learning Center in Warren, RI. Mike has worked with some of the top professionals in the game over the last 25 years. He is best known for his ability to teach golfers at every level of the game to improve and aspire to greater goals. I will begin this week a running blog in print monthly, online weekly and shared through Facebook on my progress along the way. Check in and follow me on mynegm.com and on facebook.com/NEGolfMonthly

Timothy R. Branco Editor/ Publisher

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MOMS PLAY FREE ON MOTHERS DAY W/ PAID PLAYING PARTNER(S)

CHEMAWA GOLF COURSE 508.399.7330 | ChemawaGolf.com

350 Cushman Rd. North Attleboro MA 02760

NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY

14 51

GOLF TRAVEL 14

Alice & Danny Scott / OH, CANDA Trips & Tips

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE 24

NEGM Staff / New England Junior Golf Alive & Well

28

Leigh MacKay / Kira Kazantsev-Miss America

30

GFW Staff / Fashion Fore Kids

32

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

34

Steve Riggs / Best Junior Golfers in the Region

GIFT GUIDE 48

Gifts Fore Moms, Dads & Grads presented by TLink Golf

INTERVIEWS 62

John Molori / Lisa Cornwell - The Golf Channel

64

Leigh MacKay / Holly Sonders - FOX Sports

78

Matt Ward / Michael Zisman - Golf Genius Software

GEAR & FITNESS

78

71

Ed Travis / Must Have Golf Technology

80

Kaitlyn Sharpless / Are YOU the Product of a Broken System

NEWS 82

OPINION 88

Gorman vs. Geary / Has Honor Left the Game?

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Cover Photo: Don Farrell

CONTENTS

NEGM Staff / Around the Game

NOW ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS Only $100 for the Season with Code NEGM

• 2016 Full season membership for players of all abilities • Weekend and weekday tournaments at the finest courses in MA, RI and NH. • Guaranteed reserved tee times for tournaments including private and semiprivate clubs not open to the public • Multiple levels of competition: gross division for single digit handicaps and two net divisions • Prize funds for all divisions and trophies for select tournaments • Cash side pools for all divisions for sweeps, skins, etc.

• Year long points competition for monetary prizes and trophies (Order of Merit ) • B.A.G.S. Club USGA handicap GHIN card with membership ( MGA/USGA individual number GHIN card at MGA cost ) • Number of new courses being added for 2016 season • New interactive website and new computerized scoring stystem and digital/ electronic scoreboard under consruction • Guest priveleges – invite a friend to tournaments where space available • Trial memberships ( specifics tbd) • Play with your friends and make new friends • Fun – if you like to compete or just enjoy playing golf this is the place

Some of the courses tournaments played at annually: Allendale CC, Andover CC, Atlantic CC, CC of Halifax, CC of New Bedford, Ferncroft CC, Foxborough CC, Franklin CC, Lebaron Hills CC, Ledgemont CC, Metacomet CC, Newport National GC, Olde Scotland Links, Pawtucket CC, Poquoy Brook GC, Segregannsett CC, Shaker Hills CC, Waverly Oaks GC and the classic Donald Ross George Wright GC and Franklin Park GC.

B. .G.S B. .G.S

Boston Amateur Golf Society

Boston Amateur Golf Society

JOIN TODAY!

617-302-2201 BAGSGolf.com

GOLF DESTINATIONS

OH, CANADA!

TRIPS AND TIPS

By Alice & Danny Scott

There is no better time to stretch your looneys and twoneys ($1 and $2 coins) in Canada. The Canadian dollar today equals 75 cents but don’t rub it in while there, eh? While some businesses accept American dollars, change will be given in Canadian currency at a less favorable rate. Exchange money inside banks to avoid this and ATM fees. Advise your credit card company (hopefully one without international fees) of travel. Call your cellular carrier for Canadian calling and data options to save more money, then grab your passports and across the border we go.

Montreal is an island metropolis on the St. Lawrence River that does have it all. This French city boasts the largest display of historic buildings in North America. Home of the Cirque du Soleil School, street performers, musicians and magicians are part of the flare. Terrace seating at sidewalk cafes with fine cuisine is the way to watch the artists. On Wednesdays The International Fireworks competition over the St. Law-

rence River draws thousands in awe. Set sail for a gourmet dinner any day aboard the AML Cruise. Dancing follows under the stars, passing

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large ships and city lights. Post card views are all over the city. The Intercontinental Montreal is an ideal boutique hotel and Club de Golf de l’Île de Montréal is 20 minutes away, a fantastic public facility designed by Irish architect Pat Ruddy. www.tourisme-montreal.org An hour-and-a-half north of Montreal, ascend to new heights of service, fun and golf at The Fairmont Tremblant. Your room view is an active slope where bungee jumping and ski lifts run year round with summer go carts sledding down the mountain above the alpine village of shops and restaurants. Two Tremblant courses await play. Le Geant is a rugged, rigorous and really fun run with breathtaking elevated views.

Le Diable has vast bunkers that might seem like purgatory but the vistas are heavenly, marked by deep blue skies and tall pines. Nestled in the woods on the Tremblant Mountain along the Diable River, you can find yourself or lose yourself, your choice. The Scandinave Spa is the most natural setting imaginable. Creative hot and cold-water features and rest stations are tucked into the forest.

Quebec City is on our wish list for exploration

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The fantastic golf course has a water view from every one of the 27 holes. If you are more drawn to gaming tables, the Casino de Charlevoix, next door, delivers slots, poker, black jack and more.

PEI - Prince Edward Island is the number one golf destination in Canada. 30 fabulous courses between farmlands and beaches are within half an hour of one another. We love the laidback island lifestyle that combines with exquisite surf and turf cuisine epitomized by Sim’s Corner Steakhouse and Oyster Bar. The Anne of Green Gables Musical or bands on the street beside cafes are the evening entertainment.

Historical tours or The Lobster Tour, oyster farm, fish, golf or cruise. You choose the diversion. www.Golfpei.ca Nova Scotia is a ferry ride from PEI or a flight into Halifax. Or soar into Fox Harb’r Golf Resort & Spa on your personal plane. Signs warn golfers to watch for landing aircraft. From there, past a lavender farm, and beach cottages, the cause-

having flown into it to drive to Charlevoix. The scenic route along the St. Lawrence River displays ancient architecture, wooded mountains and grand waterfalls. While driving in Canada pay attention to speed in kilometers and watch out for the moose. Passing through the French provinces, give them a little Bonjour, Sil vous plait and Merci, oui, oui?

At the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu Hotel friendly people serve up the finest cuisine and more great views inside three restaurants and out on tiered terraces.

way bridges to Cape Breton Island (CBI). The Cabot Trail winds to the rugged high country with a panoramic puzzle of mountain plateaus, river canyons and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Highlands Links Golf Course in Ingonish is one of the first built by Stanley Thompson. Its unfettered charm has stood the test of time. Cape Breton Island is now famous for offering a sort of asylum if Trump becomes president. The Donald’s son offered a free flight. Although woodpiles throughout Nova Scotia are higher than some homes, the prime minister says Cape Breton is lovely year round. Summer time is surely sweet

May 2016 | golftravelweekly.com | 15

for all parties and all are welcome, especially at Cabot Lodge in Inverness. Cabot Cliffs, designed by Coore & Crenshaw debuted in 2015.

Think Bandon and Royal Isabela merged with ocean views from all 18. The Panorama restaurant overlooks the 1st and last fairways of the Cabot Links in the same fashion as the Russacks House in St. Andrews over the Old Course. The Glenora distillery wraps up “New Scotland” with a Scotch tour and tasting swig with and without a “tipple of water.” www.novascotia.com Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of the world that should be experienced at least once. The magnificent falls are best viewed from the Canadian side, perhaps aboard the Maid of the Mist cruising up to the powerful cascades. Toronto just north is the premier sports capital of Canada with NHL’s Maple Leafs,

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MLB’s Blue Jays, and NBA’s Raptors. Although ice hockey is king in Canada, golf is the summer pastime. The province of Ontario is home to over 800 courses including the gorgeous Cobble Beach on Georgian Bay, Angus Glen host of Canadian Opens and Pan Am games, and Lora Bay, host of web.com. See www.golfinontario.ca While eastern treks are closer, the Canadian Rockies are wondrously beckoning.

A bear in a river is the welcome photo on www.hellobc.com. What follows is an array of stunning views and nature activities. On our exploration wish list is Vancouver, Whistler and Kelowna in the British Columbia, Calgary in the next province, Alberta and dining at the Vintage Chop House owned by Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Stephen Ames. Oh, Canada!

Canada's #1 Golf Destination.

P R I N C E

E D W A R D

I S L A N D

With more than 400 fairways all within a 45-minute drive from each other, Prince Edward Island is a golfer’s paradise.

Visit us today to reserve your $50 voucher to be used towards your next Golf PEI Vacation:

www.golfpei.com/NEGM Conditions apply, see website for details.

May 2016 | golftravelweekly.com | 17

GOLF DESTINATIONS

GOLF IN ONTARIO

YOUR NEXT GOLF DESTINATION!

Coast to Coast, Canada is full of great golf.

Prince Edward Island, The new Cabot Links and Cliffs, Banff Springs, Whistler; but home to over 800+ golf courses it’s the province of Ontario that often gets overlooked when talking about golf in the great white north.

Golf in Ontario was born from three leisure and outdoor activity driven tourism regions across Ontario. Central Counties located just north of Toronto, BruceGreySimcoe located North West of Toronto and The Great Waterway which spans most of the Eastern area of the province and all border one another. Each region have unique offerings but share one common denominator being world class golf.

Central Counties If “Location, Location, Location” is the main driver of business traffic than Central Counties has it made. Located minutes north of Toronto and spanning 3 counties, CC arguably has some of the best golf courses (public and private) in the country. Angus Glen, Eagles Nest, Royal Ashburn and Osprey Valley top the list of the “must plays”. Just a pitch shot from the Pearson Airport and Toronto’s downtown core, Central Counties is prime to host your next golf group.

Check out more here: golfinontario.ca/regions/ central-counties/ BruceGreySimcoe This region is largely known for its winter activities and skiing, but similar to other “winter” destinations they tend to have very underrated golf. You will be hard pressed

to find a weekend without multiple bachelor parties at The Blue Mountain Resort and if you reach up about an hour and a half, Cobble Beach is a top 5 golf experience in the province. Saugeen Golf Club and Kincardine offer a slower pace and great summer destination for anyone looking for beach options. Beach options? In Canada? You heard me.

Check out more of the great golf courses in BGS here: golfinontario.ca/regions/brucegrey-simcoe/ The Great Waterway TGW has invested heavily in its golf product and package offerings over the last 10 years.

Hosting PGA Tour Canada events along with offering unique Stay&Play packages in the Bay of Quinte. A mix of outdoors, fishing, and a premier and growing wine region, there is something for all golf travelers within a very short distance. A+ accommodations mixed with top golf courses such as Black Bear Ridge, Timber Ridge, Smugglers Glen, Trillium Wood and many more. This region of Golf in Ontario has it all!

Check out more itinerary options at: golfinontario.ca/regions/bay-of-quinte/ Make Golf in Ontario your next golf destination!

More information: www.golfinontario.ca www.centralcounties.ca/golf/ www.brucegreysimcoe.com/golf/home www.thegreatwaterway.com/golf/

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GOLF DESTINATIONS

GOLFING IN OTTAWA’S COUNTRYSIDE

JUMP OVER THE BORDER & DISCOVER EASTERN ONTARIO’S 150+ COURSES

Located one hour west of Montreal and north of the American border, we invite you to come “Savour the Outdoors” in Eastern Ontario! With over 150 golf courses in the Ottawa/Gatineau region, including seven in Prescott & Russell and some of the best golf courses in Canada. A golfer’s haven, Eastern Ontario is no exception; its golf courses are considered by some to be the best in the region. Prescott-Russell Tourism has partnered up with Ottawa Tourism to provide golf packages and/or incentives to clients wishing to visit the area and play a few rounds on great courses. These are ideal for golfers wanting to stay over for a few days and play multiple rounds. And don’t let the northern border fool you, the Canadian weather is perfect for golf from April to October! Ottawa’s countryside, including the United Counties of Prescott & Russell, is quaint, rural yet filled to the brim with wonderful discoveries, great food and beautiful courses. With its vast landscapes of scenic beauty, you’ll find that the trip down to our region is worth the drive, and our golf courses to be some of the best you’ll

20 | golftravelweekly.com | May 2016

ever find. For example, every hole provides a unique experience for golfers of all levels at the Casselview Golf and Country Club.

Impeccable greens offer a mixture of rolling, well-treed fairways. Packages are available that combine a one-night stay at the Microtel in Casselman with golf fees for two. The mature, tree-lined fairways of the Hawkesbury Golf & Curling Club also provide a challenge to golfers of all levels and include a driving range, chipping area, practice green and a practice bunker, with views of the Ottawa River to add to your experience. Near Ottawa, renowned courses like The Marshes in Kanata and Le Sorcier in Gatineau offer challenging, unique holes and high quality service, while Manderley on the Green, just south of Ottawa near the historic Rideau Canal in Manotick, is perfect for its proximity to town and it’s vast fairways and beautifully maintained greens.

We invite you to bring your clubs, take a swing, and enjoy the scenery in Eastern Ontario! Visit www.tprt.ca for more information about available packages for both courses.

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#savourtheoutdoors

PrescottRUSSELL

DISCOVER GOLFING

IN EASTERN Ontario PACKAGES

Casselview Golf & C.C. + Microtel Casselman

Hawkesbury Golf & Curling + Victorian B&B / Abadin B&B

1-888-470-8556 | $99 - $139

613 678-2848 / 613 675-0048 | $105 - $134

Manderley on the Green + Ramada Ottawa on the Rideau

The Marshes Golf Club + Brookstreet Hotel

613 288-3500 | $199 - $219

OgenĂŞt B&B

613 673-2039 | $90

Le sorcier Golf Club + Hilton Lac-Leamy

613 271-1800 | $135

1-866-488-7888 | starting at $194.50

For more inforamtion on these packages visit :

TPRT.ca May 2016 | golftravelweekly.com | 21

...a tee-box with a view.

A dozen picturesque, challenging courses; many with restaurant and/or bar on premises... you’ll see them all in Ulster County, NY.

Hudson Valley/Catskill Regions

22 | golftravelweekly.com | May 2016

Great

Golf

Ocean City, Maryland

At OceanCityGolf.com, you can plan and book your next golf getaway to Ocean City, Maryland 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With 17 championship courses designed by the legends of the game, great golf is just the beginning. Add miles of beach and boardwalk, exciting nightlife and excellent dining, Ocean City, MD is the ultimate golf getaway. Book your golf trip today by visiting OceanCityGolf.com or call (800) 4-OC-GOLF.

2 Nights, 3 Rounds Starting: Spring / Fa Weekdays ll $ Weekend 148 s $175

“Great Golf is Just the Beginning” Ocean City, Maryland www.OceanCityGolf.com

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

New England Junior Golf is Alive and Well

By NEGM Staff

Golf is a wonderful game! It is the only sport where each competitor is the referee, player and manager over all strategies and decisions. It is designed to teach etiquette, patience, fairness, and goodwill towards your fellow competitor. It is a great game where the path to success requires perseverance and acceptance of outcome. Of all the sports in the world today golf is the only one you can participate and enjoy for a lifetime with competitors, friends and family. “I was given the gift of golf not until, I was almost 40 years old. To this day I look back and wished someone had introduced me to this wonderful game when I was younger. Golf and my relationships through this great game have transformed my life to a level I could never imagined. I am truly blessed to have found the game and forever thank those who introduced me to this great game.

-Timothy R. Branco Editor / Publisher New England Golf Monthly "As golfers, we understand how important this game is to the individual.

No matter how many children you work with at golf clinics over the course of a year, you can never reach as many kids as you hope. New England has done a great job promoting junior golf and working towards making the future as bright as our past has been."

- Pat Bradley, LPGA & World Golf, Hall of Fame Inductee, Six-time Major Champion "I was very fortunate to grow up in the junior program here in Massachusetts. The experience and support I received over the years has made me the player and person I am today. The game of golf is unique because it helps shape your value system. I

24 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | May 2016

can only hope that every young kid growing up has the same opportunity that I had."

- James Driscoll, PGA Tour Player We are lucky to have so many programs available to junior golfers here in New England and throughout the northeast. There are weekly tours and events run by the AJGA (American Junior Golf Association), the U.S. Challenge Cup, the NEPGA Junior Tour, the PGA Jr. League and the Girls Independent Golf League. There are also wonderful learning and practice facilities for juniors such as The First Tee, which has over 50 location sites in New England to get started at any age. The First Tee has partnered with The Masters each year holding the finals of the National Drive Chip and Put Championship at Augusta National on Sunday of Masters week. In Rhode Island, Button Hole has a short course and teaching facility for kids. In Southern Rhode Island, the RI Children’s Golf Course runs summer leagues and Saturday Junior clinics teaching golf to hundreds of kids yearly.

Through junior golf programs, the game has helped shape the futures of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing values like integrity, respect and perseverance, and has had a positive impact on participants, their families and their communities. Junior golfers are growing up to be respectful well rounded young adults with strong values and solid life skills. With so many facilities and programs available in New England there literally is something everywhere for everyone. Give the gift of golf to a young person in your life and watch them blossom, they will never forget it!

Resources for Your Junior Golfer

American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) The American Junior Golf Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the overall growth and development of young men and women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf.

Since 1978, the American Junior Golf Association has been devoted to conducting

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

national junior golf tournaments at the highest level of junior golf. In 2016, the AJGA will conduct approximately 116 tournaments for young players, ages 12-19. At each event, the AJGA seeks to live up to its mission statement by providing a first-class venue, professional staff and a safe environment. The AJGA requires its golfers to adhere to a Code of Conduct and the AJGA Pace of Play policy. Amateur Success: 24 of the past 30 U.S. Amateur champions and 25 of the past 30 U.S. Women's Amateur champions are AJGA alumni. ajga.org

The U.S. Challenge Cup Junior Golf Foundation The United States Challenge Cup Junior Golf Foundation was founded in 1980 by David Adamonis Sr. It was formally established in 1983 and incorporated as a non-profit charitable organization. The Challenge Cup pro-

vides junior golfers ages 8-19 the opportunity to develop their skills through a competitive tournament schedule.

The foundation offers: instructional opportunities through local PGA professionals, a junior mini-tour for novice to intermediate players (ages 8-15), 28 major competitions, and opportunities to qualify for 6 of the world's top junior events. These events are the Scott Robertson Memorial, the Junior World Golf Championships, the Golfweek/FCWT Invitational, the Optimist International Junior, the Doral Publix Junior, the Orange Bowl and 2 of New England's premiere amateur tournaments the Hornblower and the Francis Ouimet Memorial.

In 2001, the Challenge Cup and Northeast Amateur partnered to create another unique opportunity for junior golfers. Each year the Challenge Cup Player of the Year will earn an invitation to compete in one of the world's top amateur events the prestigious Northeast Amateur. There are currently over 226 alum are playing competitive college golf. David Adamonis Jr. is the Director. uschallengecup.org The New England PGA Junior Tour The New England PGA Junior Tour, founded in 1995, established a goal to help develop younger golfers as well as provide outstanding competitions on a local level. In addition, this program strives to foster sportsmanship and integrity among its members.

The growth of the program has been phenomenal, and today our program consists of over 800 junior golfers and a schedule of over 100 junior tournaments per season. The New England PGA Junior Tour is open to all boys and girls ages 9-21 who reside in or are members of a golf course within the boundaries of the New England.

 The junior tour runs from the middle of June to the end of August and all tournaments are held on weekdays. However, there some events that take place on weekends in the spring and fall. The NEPGA Junior Tour events are one-day events for players 9-21 years of age and cost $40 for 18 hole divisions and $30 for nine (9) hole divisions. The Boys

May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 25

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

11 & under division and the Girls 13 & under division will play 9 holes, all other age divisions will play 18 holes. During the tournament season we use our website and email database to communicate all important information to our members. Tournament rosters, tee times, newsletters, and results are all posted on the website to provide our members with easy access to all information. nepgajuniortour.com PGA Junior League Golf PGA Junior League Golf is a fun, social and inclusive opportunity for boys and girls ages 13 and under to learn and enjoy the game of golf. Much like other recreational league sports, participants wear numbered jerseys and play on teams with their friends.

Each team is captained by a PGA or LPGA Professional, who serves as the coach and is at the forefront of creating a welcoming environment for all to enjoy the game. PGA Junior League Golf utilizes a popular scramble format that creates a nurturing environment for learn-

ing and development - both on and off course.

With more than 2,500 teams and 30,000 participants in 2015 - and Ambassadors like Rory McIlroy and Michelle Wie - PGA Junior League Golf has wide-ranging appeal for both youth and their parents.

PGA Junior League Golf began in 2011, with teams competing in Atlanta, Tampa, Dallas, and San Diego. The inaugural PGA Junior League Championship was held in September of the same year at TPC Sugarloaf in Duluth, GA. Team Atlanta claimed the first-ever PGA Junior League Championship.

From the program's humble beginnings, participation has skyrocketed. PGA Junior League now boasts over 30,000 youth participants and 2,500 teams in 48 states and all 41 PGA Sections. New England Contact is Jay Settles jsettles@pgahq.com Girls Independent Golf League All girls, team golf league organized by towns in New England w/tournaments @ MGA Links-Norton, MA and driving events at STIX in N. Attleboro, MA. GIGL Started in Massachu-

setts by David Barend to offer girls an opportunity to learn the game of golf and be part of a team at a low cost with a focus on fun and learning first. Former LPGA Tour member Allie Blomquist and former Futures Tour player Chelsea Curtis were amongst the many experts who came to assist.

26 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | May 2016

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE In addition, US Senator Elizabeth Warren sent a citation that was read to all the girls before they teed off. 2015 kicked off with a team driving competition at STIX in North Attleboro on April 3rd. 120 girls came to play - in the rain!

Here are some of GIGL's goals, both current and future: 1.

2.

3.

FUN - provide a venue for girls to play golf where fun is the #1 goal TEAM - the fun increases when the girls are on a team from their town with other girls they have gotten to know.

LEARNING - we have some type of clinic before each tournament be-

4.

5.

6.

cause the fun increases the better they get.

LOW COST - the team tournaments are only $10, there is no league registration fee, and clubs are available for free for any girl who needs them HIGH SCHOOL EXPANSION - we intend to parlay our success into establishing more girl’s varsity golf teams in New England.

COLLEGE ASSISTANCE - we would like to assist any young woman who is playing golf in college, but who has not received a full scholarship. Contact dbarend@comcast.net

Non-Profit Grow the Game Learning Facilities in New England Button Hole Providence RI buttonhole.org/

T he First Tee -50+ Locations Throughout New England thefirsttee.org T he Children’s Golf Course Coventry RI richildrensgolfcourse.com

May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 27

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Junior Golf Sets

for All Ages

By GolfGearWeekly.com Staff

Looking for quality Junior Golf Equipment that won’t put a hole in your wallet? A Golf Package Set is an optimal way to get your future star started. Quality package sets are Top Flight, Tour Edge & Wilson can include a golf bag, woods, irons, wedges and a putter.

Top Flite Kids Complete Set is an excellent choice for children ages 9-12 and heights 53” and above. This set includes a driver, hybrid, irons, and a wedge fitted with graphite shafts that are proven for enhanced club head speeds. The effortless-to-hit hybrid replaces long irons, to combine the accuracy of an iron and mercy of a fairway wood. Wide sole 7 and 9 irons and a low CG sand wedge are all part of this junior set and feature perimeter weighting for playability. This set includes a stand bag with dual carry straps that enforce comfort and balance while you’re out on the green. The stand bag contains four pockets, including a large apparel pocket, valuables pouch, and a ball pocket. Available at Dicks Sporting Goods and dickssportinggoods.com

The Tour Edge HP25 Varsity Teen Box Set is ideal for young teens that have outgrown their children’s set, but aren’t ready for adult clubs. Choose from two affordable sets: the starter set or full set. The full set includes irons in 5-SW that feature extreme heal/toe weighting for a larger sweet spot and accurate long iron performance, along with a high-MOI, heel to toe style putter that features an easy alignment aid for the best accuracy possible.

The bag is a well-constructed premium, made from lightweight material and includes a backpack strap and fast action stand as well as many zippered pockets for balls, tees, and gloves. Also includes two protective head covers. Visit touredge.com for more information or visit a retailor near you.

Wilson’s Profile Junior Golf Package Set is tailored for ages 11-14, with shorter club lengths and a large sweet spot technology that is great for establishing a youth skill set. The oversized driver’s weight position is low and back to launch the ball high with better ball flight off the tee. The putter features an alignment aid to encourage correct setup to the target. Available in two color options that are appealing to both boys and girls: black/royal blue and white/teal. This set also has the option for left or right-handed players! This golf package set consists of a driver, a hybrid, irons, a wedge, a putter, and the carry bag. Purchase at wilsongolf.com

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

SwingClick PLUS helps juniors and developing players learn faster

Get ready now for the 2017 Drive, Chip and Putt Championship The fourth annual Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, a joint initiative founded by the Masters Tournament, USGA and PGA of America which invites boys and girls from all 50 states, ages 7-15, to participate in local qualifying from May to August, in the record books. Now top performers at the local level are competing for a chance to advance through the competition and earn an invitation to the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club next April.

This year 40 boys and 40 girls competed in the 2016 National Finals at Augusta April 3, the eve of this year’s Masters. If your beginner or junior golfer is preparing to take part in next year’s competition, or pursuing a dream of becoming a successful golfer, or wants to learn to play golf, SwingClick PLUS can help.

While technique is important in learning the game, all too often, beginners and amateurs get overwhelmed with all the science and instructional tips focused on how to swing a club “perfectly.” As a result, more people are walking away from the game because the learning process seems too long and too complicated. Golfers, especially beginners and juniors, want to experience the joy of success by hitting the ball in the air, getting it on the fairway, and having fun in the process.

The SwingClick PLUS is the answer to help beginners learn how to play the game in reduced timeframes. Once golfers get the basic funda-

mentals in place: grip, alignment, stance and posture – the key to a good, consistent golf swing is timing and rhythm. The SwingClick PLUS provides beginners and all golfers this important frame of reference. The lightweight training device straps to the golfers forearm and clicks at three key points of the swing: at the top of the backswing, at impact and follow-through.

“Most beginners don’t know where the top of their backswing is,” said Mike Quinn, Managing Director of SwingClick, former Sunshine Tour player and teaching professional. “The SwingClick PLUS provides students the ability to hear and more importantly, FEEL the point of transition, and develop the muscle memory to turn in the same position at the top every time with consistency. If beginners and juniors learn to get their rhythm and tempo right, they will learn to play the game within six months instead of three years.

Events like the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship helps build kids’ confidence and develop their love of the game … so more rounds will be played and everybody wins. ” The new SwingClick PLUS is $39.99 and is available on Amazon.com, Amazon.ca and swingclickgolf.com. The original SwingClick is $29.99.

Quantity discounts available for golf academies, summer camps and instructors. A 20% discount is available with promo code: NEGOLFMG. For more information and video tips, visit swingclickgolf.com.

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Junior Golf Fashion

By GFW Staff

Junior Golf Apparel is stylish and appealing. To promote junior golf participation you have to make it fun, you can do this with special apparel and accessories just for them. Picking out the right outfit can be just as essential to their game as picking up the right clubs. If you look and feel good, then you will also play well.

Turtles and Tee Fashions are designed for junior girl golfers. The clothing and apparel have colorful patterns and the design is always very functional. With a line for the younger girls including Sydney skorts that feature scalloped hems and ribbon belts and are paired with color-coordinated brief shorts.

The line for the older juniors features polos, half-zip pullovers, windbreakers, and charming pleated shorts and skirts. All Turtle and Tee Fashions fabrics are composed of soft, moisture absorbing and UV protected materials. Coordinate your clothes and accessories, with headbands, golf hats and visors! www.turtlesandtees.com/ Garb Golf Attire is a clothing line for infants, toddlers, and youths. Designed to warm the hearts of parents who love class.

Garb Golf Attire is made from quality materials and construction that will hold up for more than one season and your little golfer will always be looking dapper. Garbs kids shorts that are designed with quick dry fabrics and mesh pockets, so they can go for a swim after they leave the green. The youth are taking over and the game is evolving, give the kids the fashion they are demanding! www.garbinc.com Fore Kids Golf is the preferred vendor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotels. From their onesie baby suits and big boy trousers to matching spa robes for adults, all clothing is made from the highest quality of fabrics. Their clothing is meant to be custom embroidered with your logo, and is always a favorite among parents and grandparents for showing off their club membership. www.kelseymaclean.com

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE Kissi Couture was designed by two little golf Divas, Morgan and Makenna Rodriguez who decided to start designing their own golf clothes. The junior’s girls golf wear is a sassy athletic line with vibrant colors.They offer bling patches with their sayings or your own to add to the design. With sayings like “Kiss My Putt” on polos that have frilly plackets or sleeves, an angel skort and many accessories - jewelry, socks, hats, hair bows, purses, umbrellas, and fun stickers. www.kissicouture.com Biion Footwear introduces a kid’s collection that is fun, fresh, and full of excitement.

With vibrant colors and featuring Spongebob designs these are lightweight and durable, making every adventure a comfortable one.

Designed with anti-microbial odor resistance, theres no need to wear socks. These are easy to clean and they dry in little to no time. Biion offers outstanding comfort, while creating the least amount of resistance during your swing.

This golf shoe will take you beyond the course and can be worn not just on the course but also for any occasion. https://biionfootwear. com/kiids.php Par Plus junior golf apparel has a name that represents quality, fashion, and colorful junior golf apparel that is designed for children ages 6-16. These clothes are made from only quality fabrics that include Moisture Wicking and Spandex. Par Plus offers a wide range of clothing and accessories for both boys and girls. With bold and vibrant colors, you will stand out above the crowd. The quality and style is exceptional and well designed, your child will love wearing this line. http://www. parplusgolf.com/ Puma Golf Junior Gear Junior Gear offers apparel and accessories for both boys and girls. Backpacks, hats, belts, gloves, and head covers are just a few of the stylish accessories offered by Puma. Golf polos and solid knit golf skirts are offered for girls in vibrant trendy colors.

Puma brings their key breakthrough technologies paired with trend setting colorful collections to junior golf. Junior Golf shoes that are made from premium materials, lightweight construction, and trendsetting style is used to accommodate the style and performance needs of all future tour pros. Puma golf offers the full package that will help junior golfers of all levels to ‘Look Better. Feel Better. Play Better.’ http:// www.cobragolf.com/pumagolf/youth

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

By GGGA Staff

In a coaching career that spans more than 20 years, Gary Gilchrist has been responsible for recruiting, training and developing more top-ranked junior-level golfers than any other coach in the world. Though Gilchrist was initially trained as a technical teacher, he quickly realized to take golfers to the next level, they needed to master more than just technique – they also needed a comprehensive training program that incorporated every aspect of being a champion and that’s just what he did with starting the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy.

In both the full-time program as well as weekly seasonal and summer camps, the academy focuses on incorporating the five areas of the Gary Gilchrist Training System.

Preparation is the foundation of the golf swing that will instantly improve one’s game.

There are three key fundamentals that are needed for the proper set-up of the swing: grip, posture, and alignment.

The set-up is the groundwork for consistency and control.

The grip controls the clubface throughout the swing. Posture is important because it allows the body to move correctly throughout the swing while staying in balance. Alignment controls the swing path, is determined

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by proper ball position and directs the clubface through the ball, which controls ball flight.

The pivot is the body motion of the swing which controls weight shift balance, the way your body rotates and allows one to accelerate the club through impact. Once you’ve improved your set-up, the plane of your swing will naturally follow. The club will now swing in balance allowing it to return on the correct plane into the impact of the ball.

Great golfers have solid set-ups throughout their entire game. Go back to the basics. It’s the fastest way to feel, see and experience improvement in one’s performance. Quality practice is the first step to improving and enjoying the game!

Every golfer is different. With that in mind, the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy (GGGA) has created a unique approach to athletic development at any age.

GGGA offers programs including one week camps, player development programs, adult training including stay-play-train at Mission Inn Resort, fulltime junior programs including academics and post-graduate training. Learn more at www.GGGA.com.

SUMMER CAMP JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

June 19 - August 6, 2016 Have Fun Make Friends Improve Your Game THIS PROGRAM INCLUDES:

Technical Training

Fitness Training

Mental Training

Our training program is overseen and directed by Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher and Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher Gary Gilchrist and his team of coaches.

GGGA’s “Train Like a Champion” system | “Think Like a Champion” mental training program Individualized development plan with practice drills | Golf-specific fitness training Golf at Mission Inn Resort & Club – featuring two championship courses Housing in GGGA’s townhomes | Daily activities around Central Florida

Reserve a space for your young athlete today!

+1 352-484-0787 | programs@ggga.com | Camps.ggga.com May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 33

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Best of New England:

Junior Boys and Junior Girls

By Steve Riggs

2016 promises to be an exciting year for junior golf in New England. With so many talented young competitors I would need at least half this issue to list them all along with their accomplishments. Suffice it to say I’ve done my best profiling my picks for some of the Best Juniors in New England. All our junior players are deserving of praise for their achievements now and going forward.

As I write this piece I can’t help but think of Megan Khang of Rockland, MA. who is embarking on her LPGA Tour career at the age of 18.

A career that began as a U.S. Challenge Cup junior player not so long ago prepared Megan to compete at the highest level of women’s golf.

Best Junior Boy

Michael Thorbjornsen, Wellesley, MA (2020) is my pick for Best Junior Boy. Last July Michael won the 1st Annual Massachusetts Boys Junior Amateur Championship with a -1/69 at the Norfolk Golf Club at age 13.

This youngster has been playing competitively since age 6 in the U.S. Kids Golf program. Michael was named National Player of the Year in 2012 and ’13 winning back to back World Championships. He’s one of only a handful of youngsters having accomplished the feat in the U.S. Kids Golf’s 15 year history.

Thorbjornsen was the overall winner of this year’s National Winner of the Drive Chip and Putt National Finals held at Augusta National Golf Club in the boys’ 14-15 age group.

The 34th Annual Challenge Cup Championship at Alpine CC in Cranston, RI saw the now 14 year old finish 9th in the 2 day event. What caught my eye was the fact Michael competed in the 15-18 year old division. He posted scores of 75, 79 for a 154 total that was just six off the winning score.

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In her first professional events on the LPGA Tour, Khang has made 6 starts. Making 3 cuts, she has finished T-11th, T-4th and in her last event, prior to this writing, she had a T-7th that included a second round 64 at the LOTTE Championship.

A tournament low equaled only by the winner of the championship. Megan’s earnings sit at $125,394. It’s not going to be long before we see this feisty proud daughter of Lee and Nou Kue Khang in the winners circle.

Below are my picks for the Best Boy and Girl Junior players followed by the Top 3 Boys and Top 3 Girls to watch this season. Luck to all our juniors this year.

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Best Junior Girl

Anne Walsh, Jamaica Plain, MA (2020) is off to a good start as the Top Junior Girl finishing 2nd in the Challenge Cup Championship Girls Division. The 14 year old made it to the Elite 8 of the Challenge Cup’s Junior Match Play Championship before being knocked off by the older Jen Keim MA (2016).

Championship in 2015. From what I’ve seen, Anne Walsh is on track to have a great season on the links.

The Walsh cleaned up on the NEPGA Girls circuit in 2015 with 3 wins, 11-2nd and 5-3rd place finishes at age 13. She advanced to the quarter finals of the Women’s Massachusetts State Amateur

Junior Boys to Watch

Patrick Welch, Providence, RI (2018) remains a top junior player and is off to a grand start finishing among the top players at the Challenge Cup Match Play Championship. Patrick tied for Medalist honors with Michael Thorbjornsen in the Scott Robinson Memorial Sectional Qualifier shooting 71 at Rehoboth CC last month.

Bryson Richards, Plainfield, VT (2019) at 15 has been competing since playing in the U.S.Kids Golf World Championships at age 7 in 2008 at Pinehurst. Bryson finished 3rd in a scorecard playoff after a three way tie for 1st at the Challenge Cup Championship last month.

Ben James, Milford, CT (2021) is certainly one junior to keep your eyes on this year. Ben wanted to sign a letter of intent to play his college golf at UCONN at age 11. He seems to be on track after finishing 5th posting a 78 in the March Madness Spring Shootout. He finished 2nd in the 14 and under division of the Scott Robinson Memorial Sectional Qualifier posting another 78.

May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 35

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Junior Girls to Watch

Alexis Florio, Cranston, RI (2018) is in just her fourth year of competitive golf. She finished 8th in the Challenge Cup Championship and 5th in the Hornblower Junior Classic. In 2015 Alexis made the Semi-Finals of the Rhode Island Junior Amateur Championship and finished 6th individually in the RI State High School Golf Championship competing from the white tees as a member of the Cranston HS West golf team.

Emily Nash, Lunenburg, MA (2018) qualified for the U. S. Challenge Cup’s March Madness Spring Shootout posting a 79 in the Girls 14 & under division. She finished 4th overall in the Shootout. She advanced to the Final 4 of the Chal-

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lenge Cup Junior Match Play Championship and 8th in the Challenge Cup Championship. Last year Emily was voted MVP by the Lunenburg HS boy’s golf team. Then 14, Emily amassed an impressive record of 11-2-2.

Julia Ford, Shrewsbury, MA (2016) won the Challenge Cup Championship at Alpine CC posting scores of 75, 77 for a 152 total and a winning margin of 9 shots.

Julia, in her senior year at Shrewsbury HS had quite a year in 2015. In just a matter of weeks last July she qualified for both the USGA Junior Championship and the Junior PGA Championship. A standout on the junior circuit in New England I’m anxious to follow her success in 2016 and beyond.

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Bungay Brook Golf is Fun for Everyone

by Jim Hammond There is an old saying, “The family that plays together stays together.� And one sport that the entire family can play together is golf. A local course that has always put out the welcome mat for the entire family is Bungay Brook Golf Course in Bellingham Mass.

For 15 years, Bungay Brook, a family owned golf course has been a favorite destination for area golfers.

With five sets of tees, the front tees playing a very manageable 2300 yards and the tips measuring 3,136 yards, both the novice and the pro will enjoy their round at this nine hole course. If you need to warm up a bit before teeing off, a 300 yard all grass practice range is available to all.

The first hole at Bungay Brook is a short 309 yard par 4 with a generous fairway. Hit a good shot and you have a short iron into a large green. The greens at Bungay roll fast and true so lag it up close and tap it in for a par.

All of the holes have wide fairways and very few trees so you do not need to pull out the driver on every hole. But if you want to im-

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press the family the 4th hole is a 475 yard par 5. So grab your driver and try reaching the green in two shots. It is a large double green but watch out for the mammoth bunker that guards the left side.

One of my favorite holes is the 362 yard Par 4 ninth. You hit your tee shot off an elevated tee. The fairway fades to the right and a pond protects the green. It is a great finishing hole and the people coming out of the pro shot are certain to watch your approach shot. The course from tee to green is always well maintained so if you have time, play another nine!

Bungay offers reduced rates for both seniors and juniors which makes it a perfect outing for Grandpa and Grandma to join the grandkids for a little quality time on the fairways. P.G.A. Pro John Simmons is available for lessons and there are special discounts for the junior golfer in the family. Bungay will also be offering clinics for the juniors in July and August. For more information check out the web site at www.BungayBrook.com

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350 Cushman Rd. North Attleboro MA 02760 May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 39

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Maplegate Country Club

Junior Golf Schools & Special Rates

Located off Route 495 in Bellingham MA, Maplegate Country Club is host to the very popular Maplegate Golf Schools. Headed by 25 year PGA pro Greg Dowdell, the Golf School offers all kinds of programs for all ages beginning with Toddler Golf right through our Adult After Work programs.

The Junior golf program is especially successful due to our USGTF professional Kevin Weldon, Collegiate player Camden Morrison, Johnson and Wales Collegiate All- Star Peter French, as well as a number of other qualified golf instructors. The 4 Day Junior Golf Academy is an intense five hour a day program with on course competition for golfers age 9-16. Our “Try Golf” class is geared to beginner juniors who may or may not own clubs age 5-11. Toddler Golf is for kids age 1-3 where each student receives a personalized set of plastic clubs and balls.

Maplegate Country Club also plays host to Medway High School golf as well as 2 PGA Junior League teams. This is the highlight of the summer. The PGA Junior League is a super popular, competitive based league where

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players compete in uniformed shirts versus local clubs. Players can also earn a spot on an All-Star team and even compete at a National junior golf event. The program also offers an end of year family based competition and barbecue. Please go to maplegate.com for more info on the PGA Junior League and all our other programs.

The success of all our programs are due to the host facility Maplegate Country Club.

This public golf course provides everything and more for kids to be successful at golf and continue their involvement in the greatest game ever played.

Junior Golf Special Rates • M-F before 7AM Only $10 to Walk (under 18) • M-F after 3PM Only $20 to Walk (under 18)

Phone: 508-966-4040

www.Maplegate.com 160 Maple Street Bellingham, MA 02019

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE JOIN 2 CLUBS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!

WHEN YOU JOIN INDIAN MEADOWS GOLF CLUB OR PINECREST GOLF CLUB FOR THE 2016 SEASON YOU GET GOLFING PRIVILEGES OF BOTH COURSES

Indian Meadows GC | 275 Turnpike Rd. Westborough, MA (508) 836-5460 | IndianMeadowsgolfclub.com

Pinecrest GC | 212 Prentice St. Holliston, MA (774) 233-0579 | Pinecrestgolfclub.net

After School Junior Golf Lessons at Pinecrest GC This program is designed to introduce beginners to golf and also to provide the experienced player with a jump-start for the new golf season. Each week will be a different theme based on the student’s abilities.

To Sign up your Junior go to www.BillAllenGolf.com or Contact Bill Allen, PGA | 781-910-3626

Indian Meadows | Westboro, MA Pinecrest Golf Club | Holliston, MA North Hill Country Club | Duxbury, MA Chatham Seaside Links | Chatham, MA Highland Links | N. Truro, MA Whaling City Golf Course | New Bedford, MA

PO Box 1659, Harwich, MA 02645 www.johnsongolfmanagement.com

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

The Back Nine Club A Course & Learning Opportunity for Juniors

The Back Nine Club is an executive style 18 hole par-3 golf course and is certified as a Beginner Friendly and Family Course. With three sets of tees, Blue yardage 2967, White yardage 2588 and Red yardage set at 2080. The Juniors rates for 18 holes - $13.00 and 9 hole - $8.00 make The Back Nine very affordable for all junior skill levels. New to The Back Nine this year is our Junior Summer Golf Camp.

Junior Summer Camp Information: The class runs every Monday beginning June 27th and is open to all juniors ages 6-17. Classes are scheduled to run every Monday from the start on the 27th of June up until the 22nd of August. We also have a family day/cookout on the 29th of August. No classes will be held the week of July 4th.

Sessions run from 8:45 a.m.-9:45 a.m. for ages 6-8. At this stage we focus on introducing juniors to the game. Fundamentals are introduced such as grip, stance and posture. Drills and games are mostly played and used to relate the fundamentals and incorporate fun.

The 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. time session is geared to juniors ages 9-10. Those youngsters

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are also introduced to the game with fundamentals. The range of experience in this group varies so we plan accordingly ensuring everyone learns at an appropriate stage.

Our 11:30 am-1:00 p.m. group ages 11+ typically has the basic knowledge of the game understood. We get into much greater detail with the mechanics and use competition as a way for them to learn but enjoy the time with they’re peers.

In years past, we’ve really focused on not leaving any kids out, especially seeing as it’s an individual sport. The teaching methods we use and plans we go by consist of team games and interactions with other golfers.

Junior Development Clinic Summer Series Application – begins June 27th • Ages 6-10, $120.00 • Ages 11+, $140.00 (3 or more in same family $110.00 each) Limited to the first 35 students per age group to register. Call the Golf Shop at 508-947-9981 Bob Giusti, PGA Pro - bgiusti@thebacknineclub.com Visit www.thebacknineclub.com for more details

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Country Club of New Bedford

Junior Golf Program 2016 Golf: The Game of A Lifetime The most challenging athletic sport, with tradition and character that promotes healthy exercise and great fun is golf! Golf is said to be “The Game of a Lifetime”. All ages participate and enjoy chasing that little white ball around the golf course. And the best time to start is now, as a junior’s hand to eye coordination is developing. Juniors and Adults share the many benefits of golf. They develop their own golf swings that may individually vary, but have similarities in their ball striking and results. Basic golf swing fundamentals are similar except for physical flexibility, strength, and personal athletic ability. The challenge is there for all golfers, BUT NOW IS THE TIME TO START! Golf helps juniors gain their confidence and also affords players a nice social opportunity interacting with a variety of golfers of all ages and personalities, as we all know is a key element in life.

After School Camps These camps will include instruction of Full Swing, Short Game, Drills, Contests and Most all Have Fun! These sessions will be held on 5 consecutive Wednesday afternoons from 3:15 to 4:30 PM. The cost for the five week program is $125.00 per student and the dates are: April 6th through May 4th Session # 1 (Ages 7-15) May 18th through June 8th Session # 2 (Ages 7-15)

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Three-Day Summer Camps These camps will include instruction of basic skills, etiquette, rules and fundamentals using on course practices, games and contests. Each session will conclude with a skills assessment and an awards pizza party! The cost for the three day camps is $180.00 per student.

The camps will be held from 9-12Noon and the age group for all sessions are 7-15 years old.

Sessions are as follows: July 5th through 7th July 26th through 28th August 9th through 11th

(Session # 1) (Session # 2) (Session # 3)

A Junior Golf Meeting to discuss the 2016 Junior Golf Program will be held on April 30 to include information the PGAJrLeague Golf Program. We would like to field a team and have CCNB represented in the league.

Jr. Golf Membership - 300.00 Available to anyone who meets the following: • Age 17 or under • Full time student under age 23 • Dependent on parents tax return

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

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JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Segregansett Family Membership Welcomes All

By Jim Hammond

Great golf courses have great traditions and Segregansett Country Club is no exception. In 1983 the tradition started with the construction of a 3 hole golf course. Over the years it was moved to its current spot in Taunton where it has grown to be an 18 hole championship course that is very challenging, but also very fair. From the back it plays 6,700 yards but there are 4 sets of tees that should accommodate everyone no matter what their handicap may be. The folks at Segregansett have adopted the policy of “playing it forward.” A set of green tees are placed in front of the red tees making the course more manageable for less experienced golfers.

Junior golfers are certainly the future of the game, but many courses restrict the times where the youngsters are able to play. However, Segregansett allows juniors to play most of the time as long as they are accompanied

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by a parent. There is a practice area with grass tees to warm up before your round. If you want to sharpen your skills, make an appointment with head pro Rob Baxter. Rob was the top Rhode Island Amateur in 1981 and last year was named golf teacher of the year. Let Rob work with the young golfers in your family and they will develop their game to their full potential.

Family memberships are available at a very competitive rate. If you would like to give Segragansett a try before you sign-up try the “member for a day“ option. Fifty dollars will let you play a round at this historic course and that includes a cart. The members are very friendly, the condition is exceptional and the food is great. Check out the details at www.segragansettcc.com or call Rob at 508 824-9110. And bring the entire family with you. It will be a great day for all.

JUNIOR GOLF GUIDE

Drop Into Seggy For a One Month Trial

$250 For a Month

(Will Be Applied to Membership if You Join)

Seggy

Spring Membership Incentive Program May 1, 2016 to June 30th, 2017 For One Membership Fee

Single Full Membership $3200 – Family Full Membership $3450 Mid – Adult 30-35 $2100 – Young Adult 21-29 $1500 Member For A Day Pricing 7 Days a Week $50.00 with Cart Book Tee Times Online at Segregansett.com

For Memberships:

Gary Palmer 508-942-5873 84 Gulliver St Taunton, MA 02780 508-824-9110 Segregansett.com

Member For A Day Tee Times

508-824-9144

May 2016 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 47

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The Caves Vest is among a strong family of Fairway & Greene vests, and all complement the premier sportswear that Fairway & Greene prides itself upon. All Fairway & Greene vests perform on the fairway but are also stylish enough for off course.

Easily packable, light, and often weatherproof, vests are on-course essentials. A highlight for Fairway & Greene was outfitting the 2015 U.S. Presidents Cup Team. On the winning Sunday of the Presidents Cup, the team was outfitted in Red Caves Vests. The perfect gift for golfing

Jacob Hill by Piedmont Leather is your source for fine leather goods including cash covers, putter covers, belts, cigar holders and more all handmade in the USA. We use only the finest leathers such as lizard, ostrich leg, nile crocodile or alligator. To purchase visit www.piedmontleather.com

Cure Putters all feature an Extremely High MOI design. With a higher center of gravity, lower loft and deeper face that impacts the ball at the equator, Cure Putters deliver a superior roll - getting the ball rolling sooner, helping it stay on the intended line. Available at select retailors or at www.CurePutters.com

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dads, the Fairway & Greene Caves Vest is sure to become a favorite in his wardrobe. Visit www.fairwayandgreene.com for more information.

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SWINGCLICK PLUS is the 2nd generation of the #1 Best Selling golf swing training device on Amazon (2015). Top 50 instructors, touring pros and amateur golfers

worldwide have recommended SwingClick PLUS as the simplest and easiest way to improve the rhythm, tempo and consistency of your golf swing. SwingClick Plus teaches golfers to feel the correct transition point at the top of the backswing. The new, sleeker device fits comfortably around your forearm and clicks at the top of the backswing, at impact and finish, providing the timing and muscle memory for a consistent golf swing. SwingClick Plus is portable, affordable and makes a great gift. Buy it on Amazon TODAY for $39.00 (search Swingclick PLUS). 20% discount Promo Code: NEGOLFMG

May 2016 | golfgiftguides.com | 51

GIFTS FORE MOMS, DADS & GRADS

Vegas Golf the Game is the ultimate on course golf game. Play while you play. Entertaining chips bring attention to the game with an engaging and simple set of rules. Choose from one of 3 different games for Mom, Dad or your favorite Grad from just $14.95 at www.vegasgolfthegame.com

The Swingrite improves the four essential parts of the golf swing: tempo, swing speed, hand release and grip.

It adjusts to swing speeds between 45 and 110 mph from full swing to chips. It is the perfect gift for golfers to use indoors or out. Buy online at www.swingrite.com or at select retailors near you.

SmokeSetter is a new and unique cigar holder. Its versatility is what distinguishes it from others as it can be used in cars, trucks and other places where one enjoys cigars, not just the golf course. Visit www.smokesetter. com to buy your dad or grad the perfect gift.

Swing Juice offers a fun, modern look with a unique twist that you will not find anywhere else in the golf market. From “Sweet Tee” to “Masters and Chill”, each graphic tee offers a witty yet true statement for the golfer in us.

Enter “NEGM10” to give Mom, Dad or your recent Grad the coolest tee’s on the planet and save 10%. Visit www.swingjuice.com today!

52 | golfgiftguides.com | May 2016

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Carnoustie Sportswear women’s cotton polos and mocks are an exquisite blend of luxurious pima cotton and lycra. The lycra gives the garment a bit of stretch that ensures that it will retain its shape and always be flattering in just the right places.

Get your Mom the perfect outfit from Carnoustie on her day. Visit www.carnoustiesportswearonline.com

Antigua, just in time for Father’s Day, is highlighting one of its most popular performance golf polos from the 2016 spring/summer collection - the Element heathered short sleeve polo. Antigua takes special care in constructing their heather yarns for performance apparel.

The Element heathered polo is perfect for your dad or grad so go to www.antigua.com to order yours today!

BETENLY IS REDEFINING GOLF FASHION with a new generation of contemporary, luxury-performance sportswear.

Sophisticated designs, distinctive styling details, and premium, high-performance fabrications. are expertly blended together to create “performance with style” for the the modern player. Receive a FREE HAT with a purchase of an Betenly Golf purchase at ww.BetenlyGolf.com

May 2016 | golfgiftguides.com | 53

GIFTS FORE MOMS, DADS & GRADS

Pelz Golf If you can consistently turn three into two around the greens, you’ll gain condence and your scores WILL IMPROVE. A One-Day Dave Pelz Scoring Clinic at Pinehills Golf Club is the best way to focus on and sharpen the skills that are most critical to your scores. Join the Pelz staff at Pinehills (July 27 – 30) and see what better skills inside of 100 yards will do for YOUR GAME. When you chip and putt better and hit your pitch, sand and wedge shots closer to the hole, good things happen! Sign up today through this exclusive NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY OFFER by calling 800.833.7370 and save $50 off a Pelz one-day clinic.

CHASE54 is for all you moms, dads, and grads living life FOR THE PURSUIT this one’s for you!

In honor of all you do, CHASE54 is offering 25% off all full-price items from now until the end of June. Visit chase54.com and use code MDG25 at checkout.

Powerbilt Air Force One Nitrogen charged patented technology offers the fastest ball speed and tightest dispersion. Now with the option to fit leading manufactures shafts including industry leaders: Oban, Graphite Design and Aldila, to achieve the optimum launch angle and spin rate. Get your Mom, Dad or Grad the best driver at www.afogolf.com

54 | golfgiftguides.com | May 2016

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GolfKnickers specializes in full line plus fours or golf knickers. To complement the knickers, they have a full line of matching socks,caps and shirts; allowing us to deliver the complete outfit to their customer. They are committed to growing the game of golf by encouraging players to wear the game the way it was meant to be played.

This Mother’s day, forget the chocolates and flowers, be bold and get your mom what she really wants, an outfit from www.golfknickers.com

Knuth Golf clubs are designed for all players to bring the heat. Give your golfer a longer, straighter and more forgiving game. Take $70 off the driver, $30 off a fairway, $20 off a hybrid and purchase all three for free shipping when you select NE Golf Monthly at Checkout at www.KnuthGolf.com

Longball Because flowers and chocolate kinda seem like an afterthought, actions speak louder than words. Longball has a perfect range of gifts with their performance driven fabrics and unique designs. Gifts for Mom and Dad who golf can be found at www.Longball.com . Use the code “ItsYourDay” to receive 20% off your order.

May 2016 | golfgiftguides.com | 55

GIFTS FORE MOMS, DADS & GRADS

Nexbelt, “The Belt With No Holes” features a unique ratcheting system called PreciseFit that allows the wearer to adjust his or her belt in quarter-inch increments, providing the best fit, feel and fashion available, as well as the convenience of a hidden ball marker located behind the face of the belt. These belts make a great gift because they are one size fits all and cut-to-fit so you don’t even have to know what size waist the person you’re giving it to wears. Over 150 different colors

At last, a laser rangefinder that won’t empty your wallet! The innovative team at ScoreBand blew open the laser rangefinder market last year with the release of their affordable and precise ScoreBand PULSE. Ultra-compact, lightweight (7 ounces), accurate to +/- 1 yard and a range of 400 yards, the PULSE is accessible to all golfers seeking to lower their score with exact distances at only $169.99. The ScoreBand PULSE has quickly been embraced by thousands of satisfied golfers. Complete with battery, carrying case, wrist strap and lens

56 | golfgiftguides.com | May 2016

and styles available for Moms, Dads or Grads at www.Nexbelt.com Enter Code GMM516 for FREE Shipping!

cloth, the ScoreBand PULSE makes an impressive gift. Use exclusive NEGM 20% OFF DISCOUNT CODE: NE-PULSE at www.ScoreBand.com

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Puma The IGNITE Spikeless golf shoe for women has a versatile and fashion-forward style along with unrivaled comfort and stability.

The Spikeless shoe features revolutionary IGNITE Foam, an ultra-responsive cushioning foam designed to maximize comfort while providing the perfect amount of support and stability to performance all day long. A sleeker, more refined performance last is combined with the IGNITE Foam to provide the golfer with unrivaled comfort, a better fit and a more enjoyable ride. The sole of the shoe features 39 strategically placed

hexagon pods that provide multi-directional traction while the 24 chevron shaped lugs increase grip where it’s needed most. Have your mom in your life looking her best with Puma IGNITE. Go to www.puma.com

Cobra Golf KING F6 Driver features a dual position front-to-back CG system with 10-and 3-gram flip weights. This system delivers the ultimate blend of distance and forgiveness, and promotes faster ball speeds, lower spin and optimal launch angles. With the heavier weight in the front position you’ll see a penetrating ball flight with less spin that delivers more roll for maximum distance; while the back CG weight position delivers a towering ball flight with added spin for more carry and increased forgiveness. For an increased range of performance, the 3-gram weight can be removed all together, offering a third option to maximize CG movement and spin

differential. Get your dad/grad in your life a new driver for their big day. Shop at www.cobragolf.com

May 2016 | golfgiftguides.com | 57

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GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

Cornwell brings a player’s edge to Golf Channel

by John Molori

Lisa Cornwell joined Golf Channel on January 1, 2014 as a host for Golf Central, but her life in the game goes back to her Razorback roots.

“I started playing when I was about 5 years old,” says the 41 year-old Fayetteville, Arkansas native and cousin of former President Bill Clinton.

“I remember getting a Gary Player set of clubs with a little persimmon head 5-wood, a 7-iron, and a putter. Fayetteville had great junior programs at the time, so I was able to get some good instruction.”

“I loved playing at Pinnacle and Blessings, but there are so many great older courses down there - short courses with small, table-top greens.

I learned how to be a shot maker.”

Cornwell’s interest in golf became a vocation as she excelled at the collegiate level. “I went to Southern Methodist University because, at the time, the University of Arkansas did not have a golf program. Eventually, they got one and I transferred back, becoming their very first scholarship player. I was able to sit in on interviews when they were hiring coaches. It was a very special time being there.”

In addition to her collegiate prowess, Cornwell was a three-time All-American junior golfer and a four-time Arkansas Women’s State Amateur champion. Her sights were squarely set on a pro golf career.

“That was all I wanted to do. As a kid, I loved,

62 | golfcontentnetwork.com | May 2016

Nancy Lopez, Pat Bradley, and Patty Sheehan.

When I was 15, I was the first junior girl that David Leadbetter ever coached, but I was a field player. I wanted to do everything like Nick Faldo. I absolutely worshipped the ground he walked on.

Eventually, I kind of got burned out on the game.”

Cornwell was pre-law at Arkansas and worked in the sales field after graduation. She segued to sports media, creating and hosting the syndicated SEC Press Pass in 2011. She has also worked for the Big Ten Network and as an anchor and reporter for NBC, CBS and ABC affiliates in Mississippi, Tennessee and Ohio.

Says Cornwell, “I never thought that I would work in golf. My agent suggested that we look into it and I started working for Golf Channel in 2014. I always joke that joining Golf Channel was the worst thing for my game because of the schedule.

“Before I took this job, I could consistently shoot in the 70s. I miss being out there. I do play a lot with (Golf Channel colleague) Tripp Isenhour. We pick at each other about our games. When he misses a shot, I rib him a little bit. We always bring our clubs when we travel.”

Working in golf television has been a sometimes surreal experience for Cornwell. She relates, “When I get a text now from Nancy Lopez, I ask myself, ‘Is this really happening? Why is she talking to me?’

On my first road assignment for Golf Channel, I sat

right beside Nick Faldo at dinner. There I was trying to make small talk with my idol.”

The talented and insightful Cornwell counts Liberty National, Congressional, Whistling Straits, and any of the older Donald Ross courses among her favorites. Her course bucket list includes Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, Pine Valley, Augusta, and Cabot Cliffs. She holds a true respect for the game that has been part of her life since childhood.

“I got to interview Jack Nicklaus and caddy for (fellow Razorback) John Daly. I still can’t believe that Annika Sorenstam calls me by my first name, and I love some of the current players like Lydia Ko and Justin Thomas.

“So many athletes and musicians play golf.

Once, I was playing in Tahoe and Charles Barkley told me he loves watching me on TV. That was kind of amazing. There is no doubt that golf breaks down barriers.”

John Molori is an author and columnist for numerous publications. Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@aol.com.

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May 2016 | golfcontentnetwork.com | 63

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

Celebrity Golfer:

Holly Sonders

By Leigh MacKay

In January, 2011, Holly Sonders accelerated onto the golf scene with Golf Channel’s Morning Drive. Her golf knowledge, palpable charm, and stunning good looks provided the velocity that made the new program a golf fan’s favorite. In addition, her presence in “Playing Lessons with the Pros” and “School of Golf” allowed her to become one of the best known personalities in sports broadcasting.

In July, 2014, with her pedal to the metal, she sped down the road to FOX Sports, where her golf expertise has been utilized at USGA championships and where she has been assigned sideline duties for a package of NFL games. She also has contributed to feature pieces for FOX Sports 1’s original studio programs.

In May, 2013, Holly graced the cover of Golf Di-

64 | golfcontentnetwork.com | May 2016

gest in its “fitness” issue and provided a provocative photo spread of golf exercises. Golf.com has twice named her the “Most Beautiful Woman in Golf,” and Cobra Puma has signed her as one of their more important PR ambassadors.

Now 29, Holly, a native of Marysville, Ohio, was an accomplished junior golfer and lettered all four years in high school in both golf and basketball. She received a scholarship to Michigan State, where she majored in Communications, started all four years, earned Academic All-Big Ten honors twice, and played in the U.S. Women’s Am in 2006.

Major knee surgery at the end of her collegiate career ended her hopes of joining the LPGA Tour but helped her opt for a profession in golf broadcasting.

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK Holly is married to Erik Kuselias, whom she met as a co-host on Morning Drive.

OK, time to get you up to speed with the fastmoving Holly Sonders.

NEGM: How did you become such a proficient golfer?

HS: I was six years old when I first picked up a club. Actually, it was my mother, a perennial club champion at our country club, who brought me to the course with her. I liked the game immediately, and I worked very hard at becoming a good player. For the next 17 years, I played competitive golf, including my four years at Michigan State, where we won the Big 10 Championship in 2007. As a result, I have learned the game and know the game from the ground up.

NEGM: How did you get a job at Golf Channel?

HS: After graduation in 2009, I joined KATV in Little Rock, Arkansas, as a “hard news” field reporter and live news broadcaster. Soon thereafter, I interviewed at Golf Channel for an opening for a new morning show, and I was hired for Morning Drive. I also worked on other projects as well. Morning Drive was the perfect job for me at the perfect time. I learned so much about golf, golf personalities, the golf industry, and television production. I couldn’t have asked for a better job and thoroughly enjoyed my three and a half years there.

Play blackjack at casinos, especially Las Vegas.

And watch all sports on TV as much as possible.

But so much of my “spare time” this past winter has been watching pro football games on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays. I focus on the actions of the sideline reporters. I can’t wait for the 2016 football season to begin to get back into the game with my interviews.

NEGM: What has been your relationship with Cobra Puma?

HS: I’ve been with Cobra Puma for three years now, and we started the arrangement when I was still with Golf Channel. It’s been a remarkable relationship for me because their products—golf equipment and clothing lines— their values, and what they stand for in reaching out to younger people to bring them into the game of golf have made Cobra Puma a vibrant and inspiring company. Working with touring pros like Lexi [Thompson] and Rickie [Fowler] has been a great way for me personally to give back to the game.

NEGM: What else will you remember about your work at Golf Channel?

HS: I really liked creating “Playing Lessons with the Pros” because I was able to spend eight hours at a time with the top players in the world. We would film for the entire day and then combine the most essential parts of the presentation into the one-hour lesson that was shown to the viewers at home. It was the best time for me, just the best, and I also learned a lot from these players.

NEGM: Why did you make the move to FOX Sports?

HS: First, I wanted to branch out in my reporting duties, and the opportunity to cover the NFL seemed like the ideal option. In America, football is king, and I have always been a huge football fan. Second, I could continue my golf reporting, which I did not want to lose. FOX will be broadcasting all the USGA championships for the next 12 years, and I want to be a part of that team.

NEGM: What do you do in your spare time?

HS: I like to shop—a lot! And play golf. Travel.

NEGM: Who would be in your Dream Foursome?

HS: I’ve played with so many of today’s greatest players in the last few years, but I’ve never played with Tiger or Jack or Arnie, so they would be in my group. Oh, and I’d like to

May 2016 | golfcontentnetwork.com | 65

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK add Ben Hogan, too.

NEGM: How did that May, 2013 Golf Digest cover photo and spread come about?

HS: Craig Bestrom from Golf Digest contacted me about 10 days before the tentative shoot and said that the magazine was going to start a fitness issue. He asked if I wanted to be on the cover. I said, “That would be awesome!” So, I only had 10 days to get ready—I wish I had 10 months because, basically, it was me and my underwear. Anyway, the shoot showed me doing golf exercises to get in the best shape possible for the demands of the golf swing. It was a fun experience, and it certainly generated a lot of publicity!”

Golf is my baby, what I love to do, and has been the major force in my life for as long as I can remember. I am greatly anticipating that my job at FOX, both with my coverage of the NFL and the USGA championships, will open more doors for me. Eventually, I hope to branch out even further in the sports/entertainment field.

NEGM: What are your long term goals?

HS: Sports will always be a part of my life, and golf will always be a part of my career.

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66 | golfcontentnetwork.com | May 2016

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

PLAYER IS NO LONGER DEEMED TO MOVE BALL AFTER ADDRESS UNDER 2016 RULES CHANGES

by Jack Ross

The 2016 revisions to the Rules of Golf completed an evolution of the rules relating to balls that move after coming to rest. While the new rule is less punitive than the original provision, it could create more uncertainty and increase burdens on rules officials.

Rule 18-1, which was not modified by the recent amendments, provides that a player is penalized one stroke if he causes his ball at rest to move (once it is in play). The ball is required to be replaced.

Historically, an additional rule (Rule 18-2b) applied where a ball at rest moved after the player addressed the ball. In that case, the player was deemed to have caused the ball to move, resulting in a penalty, even if it was not clearly discernable that any action of the player caused the movement.

For example, if a player addressed the ball on a sloped putting green under windy conditions, and the ball moved, the player was deemed to have caused the movement even if he did not touch the ball with his putter. This stringent rule was often criticized for producing unfair penalties, but had the virtue of certainty given that it is often difficult for players, fellow competitors, or rules officials to ascertain what caused a ball to move in a variety of situations.

In 2012, in response to criticism that Rule 18-2b was overly Draconian, the rule was amended to add an exception: if it was known or virtually

68 | golfcontentnetwork.com | May 2016

certain that the player did not cause the ball to move, the player was not penalized. This exception was intended to address the problem of balls moving on fast greens under very windy conditions, and seemed to many observers to be an effective response to the concerns about the unfairness of Rule 18-2b.

However, the USGA and the R&A decided in 2016 to go a step further and repeal Rule 18-2b. No longer will a player be deemed to have moved a ball at rest after address. A player will be penalized under Rule 18-1 only if the facts indicate that he caused the ball to move.

Thomas Pagel, Director of Rules of Golf and Amateur Status for the USGA, explained that he rationale of the 2012 exception has been extended to the rule in its entirety, and rules officials will look at factors such as the conditions where the ball was at rest, the player’s proximity to the ball, and the player’s actions around the ball.

New Decision 18-2/0.5 provides additional clarification of the standard to be applied by players or officials in determining whether a player’s action caused the ball to move. Factors to be considered include actions taken near the ball, such as moving loose impediments or taking a practice swing; the time elapsed between such actions and the ball movement; the lie of the ball; the conditions of the ground near the ball; and wind, rain, and other weather conditions.

Patriots fans who followed the Deflategate odyssey might be interested to know that the standard applied under Rule 18-1 is whether the weight of the evidence indicates that it is “more likely than not” that the player caused the ball to move. So, just as the NFL didn’t have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Tom Brady knew that the balls were deflated, neither will your golf opponent have to meet that standard if he observes your ball move after your practice swing in the club championship.

Jesse Menachem, Executive Director of the MGA, commented that “players should welcome” the repeal of Rule 18-2b, and that the burden will fall on rules officials to look at all of the factors and make a determination.

May 2016 | golfcontentnetwork.com | 69

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TECH THIS OUT Must Have Golf Technology Products & Services

By ED TRAVIS

In the “good old days” a caddie gave us the proper club for the shot to the green. After caddies became scarce we paced distance from sprinkler heads. Today portable distance measuring devices (DMDs) have changed all that. Arguments can be made on either side whether DMDs have helped or hindered the pace of play but one thing is for sure, the technology is useful, simple and affordable.

There are advantages to both types of DMDs, laser and GPS, and to a large degree it comes down to how much we want to spend and which one we like to use. Both have their advantages.

GPS devices use multiple satellite links and maps of courses stored on a chip in the device to identify which hole is being played, the green location, where the hazards are and where you are. They provide yardage to the front, back and center of the green, to hazards and some allow the pin icon to

Arccos Driver Last year, Arccos unveiled their revolutionary shot-tracking system. For 2016 they are showing off a new product called “Arccos Driver.” An ideal way for players of any skill level to try a shot-tracking product at a very affordable price ($79), the Arccos Driver is also all about having fun on the course and competing with friends or other players around the world using the new virtual game “Arccos Crowns.” Players simply attach the single sensor to the butt of their club and pair with the free app for iPhone and Android. After each tee shot the system provides users extremely accurate data on distance, fairways hit and a variety of other stats. www.ArccosDriver.com

be moved around to more closely approximate the flagstick’s position. Lasers on the other hand bounce a beam off the flagstick or from wherever it’s aimed such as the top of a bunker and give the exact distance usually plus or minus a yard.

For 2016 there are lots of choices for DMDs ranging from the very simple to the much more sophisticated that even feature full game tracking capabilities.. Many companies produce both types of DMDs and have multiple models with several features in common. The USGA modified the Rules of Golf concerning use of DMDs rather than an outright ban use is permitted if there is a local rule allowing them.

Laser rangefinders that adjust measured yardage for the slope uphill or downhill, the air temperature, elevation or any other factor, are all right for tournament play if the adjustment features are turned off and the local rule allowing DMDs is in place.

EQUIPMENT

Bushnell Golf

The Tour V4 laser rangefinder comes in a Tournament model for $300 and Slope model which is $100 more. Both have Bushnell’s PinSeeker and Jolt technologies in a slightly smaller package than previous models and yardages are acquired more quickly. The Tour V4 Slope measures not only the actual distance but then adds or subtracts distance for uphill or downhill and may be used in tournaments if there is a local rule allowing DMDs and the distance compensation feature is turned off. Jolt is Bushnell’s feature that causes the unit to vibrate when the laser locks on the pin.

Bushnell’ NEO Ion watch has a long battery life and fits easily on the wrist. It comes loaded with more than 35,000 courses in 30 countries and automatically knows which course and which

hole you are playing. Besides the distances to front/center/back of the green, the NEO Ion shows yardage to four hazards plus it can tell the distance of the previous shot you hit and counts the number of steps taken. The price is $200 and there are no fees for annual membership nor downloads. www.BushnellGolf.com

Callaway Golf The Hybrid Laser/GPS Rangefinder ($350) packs the two DMD technologies in one unit.

The laser measurement is confirmed by a “chirp” when it locks on the pin and with 6X magnificent this sleek unit is very handy to use. The GPS feature is preloaded with 30,000 course, gives front/center/back yardage and there’s no subscription fee. Callaway says battery life is 10 hours.

The GPSy Watch also has a preload of 30,000 plus courses and shows front/back/center yardage plus layup distance to hazards and doglegs as well as displaying the time. Shot distance measurement is included as is a record keeper for score, greens in regulation and putts. Battery life is 8 to 12 hours in GPS mode.

The retail price for the GPSy Watch is $180.

The Callaway Micro Laser Rangefinder is one of the smallest on the market. It’s a nice com-

72 | golfgearweeekly.com | May 2016

pact size—only 3.5 inches by 2.5 inches by x 1.5 inches and weighs in at just 4 ounces. If the course has reflector-pins the prism mode is very fast, just a quick push of the button while Laser mode allows scanning for distances to hazards, trees, etc. Priced at $300. www.CallawayGolf.com

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Game Golf The award winning full game analyzer is now live. The all new Game Golf Live lets you capture in real time on your iOS or Android phone. It is approved for tournament play and acts as a GPS-enabled rangefinder as well with over 33,000 courses around the world. Game Golf Live is smart watch enabled on Apple with availability on Pebble and Android in the future. Stay tuned for the release of their Smart

Grips in partnership with Golf Pride that feature the tracking tags embedded in the grip and even tell you when it is time to change your grips. www.GameGolf.com

Garmin The Approach S20 ($200) is a good looking GPS wrist wearable that includes the AutoShot round Analyzer which automatically records shot distances and works with the TruSwing sensor (purchased separately) to analyze your swing metrics. The readout has larger letters and number and the S20 comes preloaded with 40,000 course layouts and automatically updates frequently played courses at no charge. It even allows manual repositioning of the pin icon on the display for more accurate distance readings. Features include a digital scorecard and even notifications of email or text messages when paired with your smartphone.

The X40 is as sleek as they come suitable for everyday life acting as an activity tracker at the same time. This GPS golf band quickly shows distances on more than 40,000 preloaded courses. Like the S20 it also features the AutoShot analyzer for analysis on Garmin Connect. www.GarminGolf.com

May 2016 | golfgearweeekly.com | 73

EQUIPMENT

GolfBuddy

GolfBuddy offers a full line of DMDs from handheld and voice GPS units to wearable wrist GPS devices and laser rangefinders. We like the LD2 model, the first ladies GPS golf watch while retails for $250. It small (less than ½ inch thick) and light in weight (1 ounce) and looks really good with the light sapphire Swarovski crystals above and below the face. The readout shows distances to hazards as well as front/center/ back of the green and there’s an odometer feature plus dual shot distance measurement.

The company says the rechargeable lithium-ion battery is good for 6 hours in GPS mode or nine weeks when used only as a watch.

GolfBuddy pioneered clip-on voice DMDs and the new Voice 2 ($130) has several improvements and you can choose to listen to a male or female voice giving the yardage. The preloaded courses include 38,000 worldwide and there is automatic course and hole recognition. On the readout screen Play Mode shows front/center/back yardage, the Green View is from your angle to the green and there’s a Shot Distance Measurement mode too. The

Golf GameBook Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, Golf GameBook has been making golf more fun since its inception in 2010. It is the digital scorecard that gives you a gallery of fans every time you’re on the golf course and a diary to store your golf memories - like a clubhouse in your pocket.

Supporting 25 different game formats, Golf GameBook is the most effective and social way to keep score in golf, allowing golfers to connect and share live results, comments, photos and videos - no matter where they are, on and off the golf course. The Golf GameBook app is available on the App Store for free. www.GolfGameBook.com

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lithium ion battery life is approximately 14 hours or two plus rounds. A belt clip and wristband are sold separately The CT2 GPS has up to 17 hours in GPS mode in a compact tactile design of ideal size to fit in pocket or clip to belt or bag. In addition to front/center/back distances display yardage to hazards can be shown and the Dynamic Green View allows the placement of the pin to be adjusted for better accuracy. The CT2 also has 38,000 course in 130 countries already in its memory. Retail price is $150. www.GolfBuddyGlobal.com

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Leupold Leupold says the new GX-2i2 is, “Like Having a Caddie in Your Bag” and after extensive on course testing we found it to be a very good DMD. Besides quick and easy yardage measurements the unit includes a slope compensation feature for uphill or downhill shots that can be turned off for tournament play. Unlike most other DMDs the Leupold can personalized for the user and after yardage for specific clubs has been inputted, the GX-2i2 recommends the proper club for the shot based on the true range distance. The unit weighs 6.8 ounces and is a compact 3.6 x 2.9 x 1.4 inches. Retail is $329. www.Leupold.com

Precision Pro Precision Pro’s good looking new GPS Golf Band at $180 is reasonably priced, it’s thin, comfortable to wear and light at just 1.2 ounces. It automatically knows which hole is being played on any of the 34,000 preloaded course with data from iGolf.

It displays distance to up to four hazards and has a shot distance measurement feature that shows the distance from one point to another, making it easy to measure how far your shot travelled. Battery life is eight hours in GPS mode or in watch mode lasts a whole year and there is a choice of white or midnight blue colors.

The Nexus Laser Rangerfinder by Precision Pro sells for $200 and is accurate to plus or minus a yard with the readout in one-tenth of yard increments. It has a 400 yard range, a scanning mode and 6X magnification. www.

PrecisionProGolf.com

May 2016 | golfgearweeekly.com | 75

EQUIPMENT

Scoreband

At last, a laser rangefinder that won’t empty your wallet! The innovative team at ScoreBand blew open the laser rangefinder market last year with the release of their affordable and precise ScoreBand PULSE. Ultra-compact, lightweight (7 ounces), accurate to +/- 1 yard and a range of 400 yards, the PULSE is accessible to all golfers seeking to lower their score with exact distances at only $169.99. The ScoreBand PULSE has quickly been embraced by thousands of satisfied golfers. Complete with battery, carrying case, wrist strap and lens cloth. www.ScoreBand.net

Sky Golf The SkyCaddie LINX GT Gametracker Watch uses both data from GPS and from measurements made on the ground for 35,000 courses all of which have been preloaded. Green shape is accurately displayed from your angle of approach and the pin icon can be moved to reflect its actual position. The watch also pairs wirelessly with the SkyCaddie Mobile GPS app to provide expanded views on a smartphone and there is a built in shot tracking system when used with SkyGolf SmartTags. Retail is $300 or $350 for the GT GameTracker package that includes 14 SmartTags. A membership is needed with prices starting at $20 per year.

They also have wrist wearable, the SkyCaddie SW2 Watch in a slim profile, lightweight unit.

Thirteen hours of battery life in GPS mode and automatic course and hole detection with distance updates are all hands free. SkyGolf’s entire worldwide library of TrueGround Course Maps are preloaded and other features such as digital scoring and shot distance measurements are standard plus there’s a pace of play timer. The SW2 is also a multi-sport odom-

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eter that tracks location, distance, time, laps, speed, pace and calories burned during a run, walk or bike ride. It’s compatible with social sharing via Bluetooth and the SkyGolf 360 app. Priced at $180 no annual membership is required. www.SkyGolf.com

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TLink Golf TLink TL1 is a lightweight Bluetooth device that pairs with your smartphone giving yardages to the front/center/ back yardages of the green for 30,000 worldwide courses. With the no cost Android or iOS app the unit also works as a pedometer, tracking your steps, calories, and distance walked on the course. A stat tracking feature is available for an extra annual charge. The TL1 comes with a wristband and a belt clip for $99. www.GolfTLink.com

Voice Caddie – VC 300 Designed to eliminate the hassle of complicated distance measurement during a round of golf, the VC300 ($129.99) is the world’s smallest and lightest golf GPS device. With the push of a button, the VC300 vocalizes quick, convenient and accurate measurements to the front, back and center of the green. The device automatically recognizes which course and hole is in play among more than 40,000 preloaded destinations. Simple touch and swipe technology makes the voice guidance clip easy to use and there are no additional subscription fees or memberships to pay for. www.VoiceCaddie.com

Zepp 2 Meet the next generation of Zepp Golf, featuring the revolutionary Smart Coach training system. Simply take a few swings and Zepp will instantly evaluate the areas using 3D swing analysis and show where you can improve and offer you training programs that are tailored to your swing. Zepp 2 measures club speed, club plane, hand plane, backswing position, tempo, and hip rotation. You can even video your swing and analyze the frame by frame. Just attach the sensor to your glove, pair to your smart device and let Zepp help you become the golfer you aspire to be. www.Zepp.com

May 2016 | golfgearweeekly.com | 77

EQUIPMENT

MICHAEL D. ZISMAN CEO, Golf Genius Software An Interview with Matt Ward

I’ve been fortunate to participate in “buddy golf trips” going back to the 1980’s, and I was always the guy to organize things. Being on the east coast -- a typical trip was to travel Thursday morning, play 18 Thursday afternoon, 36 holes on Friday and Saturday, 18 on Sunday, and head home.

One of the challenges in a trip like this is to figure out the pairings for each round so that every player is in a foursome plays with every other player about the same number of times. To make things even more complicated, we usually would break up into two teams and play in a Ryder Cup format for a few of the rounds, ABCD in some rounds and pair by condo in some rounds.

Trying to figure out the optimal pairings is a very challenging task because there are literally trillions of combinations for placing players into foursomes over rounds. Because I have a Ph.D, in “Decision Sciences” I realized at some point that

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this was a classic scheduling problem -- just like airplane or truck routing. I decided to tackle this problem and spent a year developing a scheduling program to do these sorts of pairings.

Today, this is a small part of what Golf Genius does, but we are the only ones who do it -- and this capability is critical for golf trips and golf leagues. Golf Genius has allowed me to bring together my passion for golf, 40 years of experience in the golf industry, and a love for solving really hard analytical problems.

MATT WARD: What makes Golf Genius stand apart as a product?

MICHAEL ZISMAN: We are the most comprehensive golf tournament management product, by far. Our product is used for group golf trips, golf leagues, and the sorts of complex tournaments one finds at golf clubs - member/guests, season bracket tournaments, Ryder Cups, multi-

POWERED BY GOLFGEARWEEKLY.COM round tournaments with different formats, etc.

We provide live scoring as well as traditional scoring solutions, and we live “less work, more fun, more revenue” - less work for the golf shop, more fun for golfers, and more revenue for clubs and course operators. Also, we are very proud of the customers who have chosen Golf Genius. Many U.S. Open venues, such as Merion Golf Club and Congressional Country Club, are customers.

Leading resorts, including Pinehurst, Reynolds Lake Oconee and the Grove (United Kingdom) are customers.

The PGA of Canada uses Golf Genius for all tournament scoring.

We have customers in the UAE, the U.K., Russia and Australia.

MW: Describe the prospective buyer / club interested in becoming a customer of Golf Genius.

MZ: Country clubs and golf clubs, public courses, resorts, multi-course operators and individuals managing golf trip and golf leagues.

MW: What was the genesis for the creation of the product?

MZ: My own frustration organizing group golf trips, but this led to solutions for golf leagues, and then solutions for clubs and resorts.

MW: You are involved with a wide variety of different golf facilities -- but which one of the group has shown the most interest thus far?

MZ: Private clubs and resorts.

MW: Millennials are being sought by a number of companies -- Cobra / Puma is just one example -- is Golf Genius focusing its marketing efforts with this group squarely in mind?

MZ: Millennials take for granted mobile devices, web sites and live scoring. We are best in class in these areas -- and focus on this market segment.

MW: You use two expressions in your promotion -“where tradition meets technology” and “the golfers, the geeks and the gurus.” Explain what both mean.

MZ: While clubs welcome live scoring, they also demand traditional printed materials like scorecards, scoreboards and cart signs. We

are committed to providing the best live scoring and the best printed materials - this is where tradition meets technology. “Golfer, geeks and gurus” describes the team that builds and supports Golf Genius. Almost half of the employees are PGA professionals, the developers are true “geeks”, and the gurus fill in the other key functions such as marketing and finance.

MW: Best advice you ever got and who was it from?

MZ: Solve the big problems and the little problems take care of themselves - a fellow grad student in 1975 told me this.

MW: Customer feedback is an essential feature many companies crave. How do you solicit it and what role does it play in your future shoe design efforts?

MZ: We have an interactive chat system -- customers can ask questions and submit problems. Each “ticket” is emailed to every employee in the company, including me. Our first meeting every Monday morning is called the BU E - bugs, usability and enhancements.

This is 100% customer driven and sets priorities for releases. We issue about ten major product updates every year. We also have a customer advisory council -- which provides more strategic advice.

MW: What trends do you see happening in the golf and technology arenas in the next few years?

MZ: There will be an evolution from traditional printed materials to live scoring, TV leaderboard and event web sites. But it will be an evolution -- not a revolution.

MW: If you had the power to change one thing in golf -- what would it be?

MZ: Most of the key influencers in the industry belong to country clubs, but “private club golfers” represent only about 2.5 million of 25 million golfers. We need to find a way for their voice to be heard -- and to find better ways to engage public golfers.

For more information go to: www.golfgenius.com

May 2016 | golfgearweeekly.com | 79

EQUIPMENT

Are YOU the Product Of a Broken System?

By Kaitlyn Sharpless

Hello my fellow golf friends! Bring it in if you want to know the “why” behind getting golf “fit.”

First of all, you’re a rock star. Why? Yes you’re right I do not know you. But if you are reading this article it is evident you care about body, want to improve your golf game and strive to enhance your performance. Now THAT’S how champions are made. THAT is rock star status.

Some of you may know me. Some of you might be saying who is this woman and why should I trust her with my golf game? I get it. I did the same thing when it came time to face the gym music. I ran, far away. Golf fitness may seem like a fantastic idea on paper. We constantly read about this buzz word in golf digest, golf channel and TPI. Talk about information overload! But in reality it can be SCARY and confusing as all heck.

Why? Now you need to take all those bits and pieces of information following and put it into

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your own program! Some of your heads may be spinning when it comes to answering the following questions: ● Where do I start? ● What exercises do I put in my program? ● When do I perform those exercises? ● How many reps/sets? ● How many times per week I lift? ● Do I look like an idiot warming up? ● Will I lose flexibility & mobility, or possibly “bulk up?” ● What should I be eating during the round?

Pre/post round? Pre/post workout? ● When should I be eating the above? ● W hat things should I be doing on my “off days?” ● Do I need massage therapy? ● Should I be telling my swing coach what I’m doing?

I am here to say I have lived through it all.

I am here to help educate and SHOW you the WHY behind the need to get “golf fit,” WHAT that means and HOW to do it. You are NO LONGER ALONE. Let’s help form a TEAM around you and get these vital questions answered. Trust me, when you know all of that, getting in the gym and treating your body like the full blown athlete it is, isn’t so scary anymore.

Before we kick this season off right, please allow me to share my story with you. When I mean, “I get it,” I truly get it and I am the product of a broken system. When I was 13, my grandfather introduced me to the game of golf. HOOKED FOR LIFE. I crushed golf ball after golf ball, thinking I was doing everything in my power to chase those LPGA Tour dreams. I had a very successful high school career and wanted to give college golf a try. It was then I enrolled into Methodist University and had the honor of playing alongside National Champions on a National championship team. WOW. Freshman year was full of swing changes and then it hit. Lower back pain like you wouldn’t believe. Why? I was trying to put a square peg through a round hole. MY BODY PHYSICALLY COULD NOT DO WHAT I WANTED IT TO DO. It was until I started working out with a TPI Professional who pinpointed what my physical limitations were and explained their correlation to my swing flaws. I THEN had a plan of attack to tackle my pain and take control of my body. I started lifting, and lifting heavy.

This has changed my LIFE. Yes I said life. You will find- if you haven’t already, the more you lift, the stronger you become. The stronger you become the happier and more confident you feel. That my friend is the recipe for complete mental clarity to take down any opponent you tee it up with.

It doesn’t matter what shoes you find yourself in right now. College athlete? High school?

Amateur? Touring Professional? Weekend warrior? It doesn’t matter. We as golfers need to be EXPLOSIVE, STRONG, and MOBILE and need to be preventing injury. THAT is what keeps us WINNING tournaments, OUTDRIVING opponents, and REDUCING INJURY. If I had known about the “why” behind being golf fit, I would have avoided a lot of pain, discouragement and frustration. That is why I am here. I want to help you AVOID those pitfalls.

Over the course of this year I will be bringing you through everything from warm-ups, workouts, how to avoid common injuries and cool downs. I’m ready to help you! LET’S GET IT!

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NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY First International Women’s Golf Day, Set For Tuesday, June 7

Same Day, Same Time, Around the World, Golf Facilities Welcome Women to Golf

The inaugural International Women’s Golf Day (WGD) will be celebrated around the world on Tuesday, June 7, 2016. Between the hours of 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, this first-of-itskind, global-growth-of-the-game event will welcome women and girls to golf facilities where they’ll be introduced to the game in a welcoming and spirited environment. The event also encourages existing female golf enthusiasts to attend and tee it up for nine holes of late-afternoon scramble-format golf.

International Women’s Golf Day was started by a group of golf-industry veterans working together to deliver an introductory golf experience to women and girls around

the world. The four-hour experience consists of two hours of golf and two hours of socializing. From 4:00 to 6:00 pm the participant will have the option of two hours of lessons or an on-course, 9-hole experience. From 6:00-8:00 pm, Organizers highly recommend facilities register by the end of May to maximize promotional exposure. To register a golf facility (course, club, driving range, practice center, or retail outlet), click here: http://womensgolfday.com/event-registration/. To learn more about the Women’s Golf Day as an attendee, host facility, or corporate sponsor, visit: http://womensgolfday.com/about/ or contact Hollie at info@womensgolfday.com.

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NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY Tom Lehman Honored at 2016 Ouimet Banquet Minnesota native Tom Lehman was the guest speaker and honored with the 19th Francis Ouimet Award for Lifelong Contributions to Golf at the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund’s 66th Annual Banquet.

The Banquet, which has become the largest annual golf dinner in the U.S., was held Monday, April 11 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel. The Connolly Group – Morgan Stanley was again the Presenting Sponsor.

“We are so thrilled to be able to honor Tom Lehman back to the city where he had one of his greatest accomplishments in the game of golf. Golf fans in this region certainly have indelible memories from the ’99 Ryder Cup” Gregory J. Gailius, Ouimet Fund President, said. “Tom is widely regarded as one of the game’s ‘good guys’ and we were excited to have him as this year’s honoree.”

Lehman has experienced success at every level of golf as he’s the only player in history to finish the season atop the PGA (1996), Champions (2011) and web.com (1991) tour money lists. He overcame a rocky start to his career but persevered, finishing within the top 75 of the TOUR’s money list for 13 seasons in a row, a testament to his consistency.

He is highly regarded for his numerous charitable involvements and deep religious conviction and has been honored with the Payne Stewart and Byron Nelson Awards.

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NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY Michael Thorbjornsen and Alexa Pano Make the Bay State Proud with Drive, Chip & Putt Championship Victories

Norton, MA — Eighty excited young golfers made the magical trip down Magnolia Lane as the sun rose on April 3rd.

By the end of the day, eight of those junior golfers – four boys and four girls – were crowned champions at the third-annual Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals held at Augusta National Golf Club and broadcast live on Golf Channel. Stealing the show were two juniors with Bay State ties. Michael Thorbjornsen, the 2015 Massachusetts Boys Amateur Champion who lives in Wellesley, captured the Boys 13-14 division title after collecting 23 points.

A strong second-place driving finish and a win in the chip category propelled Thorbjornsen to

84 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | May 2016

victory. Tied for the lead after the chip category, he finished with 23 points, just ahead of a threeway tie for second place by finalists Daniel Uranga (Wilder, Id.), Chase Venn (Columbia, Mo.) and Marco Punzo (Prosper, Texas) at 22 points.

In the Girls 10-11 Divison, Alexa Pano collected a first-place 10 points in the drive category and then 9 points in chipping to give her a total of 26 points which was good for a solid seven-point victory.

One of seven finalists in the program’s history to make a return trip to Augusta National, Pano was eager for another chance to claim victory after placing third in the inaugural 2014 competition. Pano won the drive category and placed second in chipping.

NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY Brittany Altomare Heading to LPGA After First Win at Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay CC Brittany Altomare (Shrewsbury, Mass.) carded a 2-under 70 on Sunday and then outlasted Nicole Broch Larsen (Hillerod, Denmark) on the fifth playoff hole to win the Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay. It was her first major professional win. Altomare is headed to Dallas to begin competing on the LPGA Tour.

Altomare and Broch Larsen, who carded a 3-over 75, were tied after 54-holes at even-par, 216. The playoff win nets Altomare $16,500 and more importantly gives her major confidence as she shifts focus to the LPGA. “It is an incredible feeling,” said Altomare, who picks up her first win and 11th top 10 finish in her 47th Symetra Tour start.

“I feel like I am on a high.”

Altomare nearly earned her card through the Volvik Race for the Card money list in 2014 and 2015. She finished 16th and 22nd respectively.

The Symetra Tour will take a week off before heading to Greenwood, South Carolina for the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation Women’s Health Classic at The Links at Stoney Point. The players will compete for a $250,000 purse and the winner will earn $37,500, both the highest totals in the history of the Tour.

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John Krause (right) rece ived a lifesaving stem cell transplant from his brother Brian (left)

or t fun and supp t way to have ving mission.

Golf is a grea sa nd life Fu s my te’ Jim Cancer Ins titu Dana-Farber

Support families in need with Jimmy Fund Golf John Krause’s leukemia diagnosis taught him that cancer can create significant financial burdens for families. “The very last thing patients and their families should have to worry about are travel expenses and other obligations, so we chose to help,” he says.

John started the Team John and the Jimmy Fund Golf Tournament to raise money for families in need and stem cell research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Join John in supporting Dana-Farber’s lifesaving mission and plan a summer or fall golf fundraiser of your own.

Start today at JimmyFundGolf.org

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GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

The topic de jure this month is one I have been railing about for years, so stop obsessing how Jordan Spieth pulled off the biggest choke ever in a major championship, and start paying attention to the single biggest problem in the game today – cheating.

Before venting, or in my case hyperventilating, about sandbaggers and other irregularities in the game, this ancient quip applies to all

by Tom 10 million USGA handicap index players: the best wood in your bag is the pencil, preferably with an eraser on one end! Translation: you can have a better game with a wooden pencil because you can simply change scores with the pencil without needing to improve your game.

Psychologists should spend more time at golf courses examining the brains of players because there is something in the green grass, the sand traps and pond water that disrupts the mathematical function of golfers. Arithmetic is poor on the course, and especially tainted when it comes time to post the actual 18-hole score, to determine a fair handicap.

How many times have I seen people walking off greens who can’t seem to count past five? Calculating the number of strokes taken on a hole isn’t that hard. Many forget a stroke or two or three. This is called cheating and with more rules than any other sport, former PGA pro Dave Hill said, “golf is the hardest game in the world to play but the easiest to cheat at.”

In a recent online poll of more than 7000 golfers, 70 percent admitted they cheated on the

course. An older survey of 400 top business executives reported that 82 percent cheated at golf. Around the same time, PGA Tour caddies were questioned about cheating, and 26 percent said they had seen players cheat on Tour.

There are many ways to cheat and some are funny. Even the way you ground your club behind the ball can be cheating. You’re not allowed to press down with your club to matt the grass behind the ball. I once said to Tim Geary as he prepared to hit a shot out of the rough, “You got a good lie there, Tim?” He replied “Not yet,” as he maneuvered his club behind the ball.

Compared to other sports, cheating is not a word usually associated with golf.

Isn’t the game supposed to be played by men and women of honor and integrity? In reality, the games dirty little secret is that there are cheaters among us, and, none as prevalent as when it comes to posting scores to determine handicaps.

There is no more damaging aspersion than to be labeled a cheat, yet every day someone is posting a higher score than what was shot, or worse, not posting a low round Gorman because it will bring their handicap down. This is especially true before big tournaments, when players are seen practicing and playing well, and then mysteriously their handicap goes up when handicaps are assigned.

This form of cheating is called sandbagging and it is the biggest stain on the sport today. By my estimate there are about a dozen blatant, hard-core sandbaggers in every club and slackers on handicap committees are terrified to discipline or suspend the cheaters. A sandbagger is a dishonest golfer who usually turns in his highest scores and manipulates his handicap so that it is above what he is capable of shooting during an average round.

Be careful when a playing partner hits a Nike from the rough, when he hit a Titleist from the tee. Remember also, nothing goes down slower than a golf handicap.”

Tom Gorman, a Boston-based golf writer for 24 years, has never been called a sandbagger because you have to win something in order to be labeled a sandbagger. He can be reached at teetalk@aol.com

Has Honor Left the Game?

YES

88 | golfcontentnetwork.com | May 2016

GOLF CONTENT NETWORK

This month I am tasked with defending the undefendable, so I am opening this column with a white flag.

Has honor left the game of golf? Duh! As soon as golf instituted the handicap system it was admitting that the game could not survive on its merits. It needed an artificial system in place to attract people and keep them.

Human beings are by nature both flawed and competitive. We like to compete, but more than that, we love to WIN! And in golf the good players are almost always going to beat the bad or lesser players.

Its not an absolute but its pretty darn close.

So to make it feasible for the less talented among us to compete with those more gifted, the gods of golf (the USGA and the Royal & Ancient) instituted the handicap system.

And with the handicap system (the GHIN in the USA) another unofficial term was born – “Sandbagging”, which is a less vulgar term than “cheating”.

People have been cheating in golf since the first shilling was wagered.

The USGA understands this so well

by Tim that its GHIN system only takes the 10 best scores of the previous 20 to determine a person’s handicap. They also have in place rules where players of a certain handicap can only take a score up to a certain amount on a hole. So if you were to get a seven on a par 3, like Jordan Spieth, you could only record it as a 5 on your card.

This year the USGA has ruled that nobody who plays as a single can turn in a score.

That is a frank admission that the governing body in this country doesn’t trust its members. And for years most clubs would not accept a score from somebody who played alone.

But despite all this there still is plenty of honor left in golf. Yes there are sandbaggers and they are usually well known, but still the majority of those who play the game, both for a living and on weekends, do so with a sense of fair play.

After all, we are in reality competing more against ourselves than other people, and its difficult to cheat oneself. We KNOW!

Tom Gorman is arguing that there is no honor left in the game, yet I have never once played golf with him where he ever violated a rule or gave himself a score that he did not actually make.

Genuine golfers love the challenge and the difficulties of the game. We may question the rules and grumble that some seem stupid, but we abide by them.

Geary We know there are those among us who think golf is nothing more than another form of gambling and the object of gambling is to win.

But the real golfer has honor and there are still plenty of us left around. Honor is one of the few things you can actually take with you.

Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer: He has never cheated a day in his life!

Has Honor Left the Game?

NO

May 2016 | golfcontentnetwork.com | 89

Bay Club Living

Where Value and Quality of Life Meet

Golf Course Communities Are Not Just for Golfers With new home prices rising throughout all regions of New England, finding a special place for your dream home has become more of a challenge today than almost at any time in the past. Discrete homebuyers are looking to live and raise their families in better planed communities offering more open space and are focused on security, amenities and eco-friendly environments. Most buyers today looking at mid to upscale homebuilding options will quickly tell you that master planned communities with a host of amenities are at the top of their list.

Along the south coastal regions of Massachusetts in communities like Plymouth, Marion and Mattapoisett new home construction prices are increasing as price points for 2500 to 3000 sq. new homes in many areas are now above $600,000. One thing has become apparent with this trend, communities like the Bay Club in Mattapoisett are seeing an increase in activity that is being fueled by homebuyers demanding more. The cost gap that separates planned living communities from traditional developments is growing smaller as consumers look for more than just a home site for their families.

For many, whether you play golf or not, communities like the Bay Club offer home building amenities that ad up for today’s discriminating

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buyers. Lovely views of well-manicured greens and fairways in a park like setting create the perfect backdrop for your new home. The Bay Club is one of only two Silver Sanctuary golf communities certified by Audubon International in the state, with one-third of the community’s 625 acres being dedicated to open space.

The community is well planned, functional and beautifully landscaped for living and family life.

Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods in New England's coastal towns, the Bay Club offers homeowners the chance to select from 2 and 3-bedroom single-family living or purchase a home site and build custom home with one of the community’s Preferred Builders. In addition to championship golf, the Bay Club offers resort style amenities in a private country club setting complimented by an active social calendar geared to bring together members of all ages.

Yachting, boating and fishing on Buzzards Bay are located nearby, as is ferry service to Martha's Vineyard and the Elizabeth Islands.

The Bay Club is home to an 18-hole Championship course designed by PGA Tour Professional Brad Faxon and partner Brad Booth. Golf facilities include a 10-acre practice area with a 310-yard double-ended range, short game area, putting greens and practice bunkers, an

indoor winter practice facility, fully staffed pro shop complimented by professional instruction, conditioning and fitness programs.

The club also offers social memberships that include access to the Golf House restaurant, a complete junior Olympic pool complex with children’s wading pool. For tennis enthusiast there are four Har-Tru Hydro tennis courts (two lighted), platform tennis and full sports and fitness facilities. There are miles of walking and biking paths and nearby beach and marina access at the harbor. Home-

sites are available from $190,000 with homes priced from the $600’s.

Location The Bay Club is ideally located just off Cape Cod along the South Coast of Massachusetts. It is less than an hour from Boston, 35 minutes from Providence and 45 minutes from Newport, Rhode Island.

For A Private Tour of the Bay Club call David Andrews at 508-207-9232 or dandrews@bayclubmatt.com

The Bay Club 63 County Road, Mattapoisett, MA

508-207-9232 Bayclubmatt.com

Sales Office Open 10-4 daily

The Preserve at The Bay Club Living

The Preserve is a luxurious, Nantucket-style development featuring 23 single-family homes located within the Bay Club at Mattapoisett. Homes feature 1,850 to 2,245 square feet of modern living space with deluxe amenities, including the privacy of the Bay Club’s gated community. Homeowners at The Preserve are invited to apply for membership access to the country club’s golf course, sports and fitness center, fine dining and other recreational activities, as well as close proximity by foot to Mattapoisett’s quaint harbor, scenic beaches and unique shops.

At the Bay Club Mattapoisett, you are surrounded by stately trees carved out of 625 acres of untouched forest, of which 88% remains preserve, the Bay Club golf course is the only Certified Silver Audubon Signature Sanctuary in Massachusetts. The 18–hole championship course,

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designed by Brad Faxon and Brad Booth, measures up to 7,000 yards from six sets of dis-

tant trees and features perfectly manicured, bent-grass fairways and greens and British-style fescue. More than a million dollars has been invested over the last five years to enhance the course and improve the pace of play.

In addition to golf, the Bay Club offers racquet sports facilities, a croquet court, an aquatics complex and a world-class, 10,000-square-foot sports and fitness center with a state-of-the-art gym, all geared for fun, fitness and lifelong wellness. An array of sports and creative activities, including summer camp, also are offered for children and grandchildren of homeowners. Let us show how to live, come visit the preserve.

For information contact our staff at the Bay Club @ 774.582.8005 or Sharon.viens@thepreserveatbayclub.com

Elegant Design | Exceptional Construction | Luxury Finishes

The Preserve

At The Bay Club Mat tap oiset t

The Preserve is a luxurious, residential, country-club community, nestled in the Bay Club at Mattapoisett, a 625-acre Audubon sanctuary with championship golf and 300 acres of lush cons ervation areas.

Just minutes from Buzzard's Bay, the idyllic, Nantucket-style development features 36 single-family homes in two neighborhoods alongside Tinkham Forest and The Bay's Nature Preserve. Homes feature 1,850 to 2,115 square feet of modern living space with deluxe amenities, including the privacy of a gated community. Homeowners also have direct membership access to the country club's golf course, sports and fitness center, fine dining and other recreational activities, as well as close proximity by foot to Mattapoisett's quaint harbor, scenic beaches and unique shops. Homes from the 500’s

CALL: 774.582.8005 | OPEN DAILY: 10am - 4pm CONTACT: SHARON.VIENS@THEPRESERVEATBAYCLUB.COM 93

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GOLF COURSES

For more information: 508 677 0555 azores.express@sata.pt

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GOLF COURSES

STAY, PLAY & ENJOY THE AZORES Flights from Boston and Providence

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