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November 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 5
From the Editor The Fall Swing It is October and after one of the finest summers ever we have reached the turn in the seasons as days grow shorter and fall settles in. It is a time of year when color abounds and cooler temperatures bring us some of the best course conditions of the season. It also is the best time of year to enjoy less crowded facilities and some of the best rates of the year. It is my favorite time of year to play and also a great time to get away for a long weekend on the Cape, or even to Northern New England. It also is one of the very best times of year for golf in Ireland and Scotland. I can attest to this after having only one day of rain in nine days in Dublin and St. Andrews this past September. The Fall Swing is all about golf at the turn, wherever the turn may take you. Weather your local course or a road trip fall is truly one of the best times of year to play the game. Rich colors and deep blue skies with lush green fairways is the place to be on a beautiful fall day, I would not trade it for anything, well almost anything. The golf in Bermuda happens to be pretty perfect at this time of year as well. The PGA Grand Slam week in Bermuda with Bubba Watson, Ernie Ells, Web Simpson and last years Champion Keegan Bradley (filling in for Rory Mcllroy) is a great time and just a 2-hour trip from New England. Fall also is one of the best times of year for golf trips to Atlantic City, Ocean City Maryland, Myrtle Beach, the Carolina’s and Florida. Rates are great, weather is usually perfect and pre holiday flights are some of the best of the year. Many seasoned golf travelers prefer the fall season for golf trips knowing that deals are everywhere and destinations are far less crowded. Whether right here in New England or wherever your game takes you this fall, enjoy the game and celebrate the season. It is once again the Fall Swing and we soon approach the turn.
CONTENTS
The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson
Good Looks on the Course
8 13
by Elle Brec
Couple of Travelers
26
by Alice and Danny Scott
Celebrity Golfer
30
by Leigh MacKay
Two Good Rounds
32
Player’s Perspective
38
by Elisa Gaudet
by Ed Travis
The Robert Report by Robert DiCesare
Ross' Rulings by Jack Ross
Molori Unplugged by John Molori
Kay’s Korner
All The Best,
Timothy R. Branco
by Emily Kay
Gorman vs. Geary
50 54 52 58 68
Editor/ Publisher
New England Golf Monthly The New England Publishing Group, Inc.
P.O. Box 357 Swansea, MA 02777 800-736-9020
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by Katherine Dyson
The Perfect Life Swinging Into Fall
The Farmers’ Almanac is predicting, “The winter will end up mainly cooler than normal over the Northeast as a consistent storm track brings storms up the coast that may be able to bring down arctic Canadian air.” The national weather map is also overlaid with a note to expect, “Heavy snows and cool.” Well, that certainly doesn’t sound promising for an extended golf season. Still the Almanac could be wrong - who says pigs can’t fly? But clearly if you want to play golf after the snow flies, you’ll need to find places to tee it up without wearing a ski parka and wool gloves. Check these out.
French Woods | Hancock, NY
Ocean Edge | Brewster, MA
GO CLOSE
Cape Cod & Natucket With a climate moderated by the ocean currents, Cape Cod and Nantucket don’t get nearly as much snow as up Boston way so it’s possible to play golf well past the time when most courses in New England have pulled their flags. And more good news: off-season prices at the Cape’s more than 40 courses won’t break the bank. Check into value-packed play and stay packages from companies like Heritage House Golf Vacations in Hyannis or book into a full service resort like Ocean Edge in Brewster where as a guest, you get to play their semi-private track designed by Jack Nicklaus while on mucky days, you can head to the pool and spa. Or settle in at the luxurious and trendy Platinum Pebble boutique inn in West Harwich where your room is so comfortable it really won’t matter whether you play or not. Beds are super, baths are large with huge showers and tubs and your cozy sitting area gives you the best seat in town for watching your favorite team in HD on your flat screen TV. An hour’s ferry ride takes you to Nantucket where you not only get to play Miacomet Golf Course located within the smooth hummocks of the Coastal Preserve but Sankaty Head Golf Course as well, a
coveted private course open to non-members only in the off-season. Stay at one of the Nantucket Island Resort properties where you have a choice of condostyle accommodations, harbor side rooms and suites, the historic Jared Coffin House or e White Elephant Hotel. NantucketIslandResorts.com
Upper Delaware Valley, New York
As long as the weather holds, there is a really good deal in Hancock, New York few people know about: French Woods Golf & Country Club. Stay in neat twostory, two bath log cabins that can comfortably sleep eight people (plus some relatives in the open loft). ey come with fully equipped kitchens, a front and back porch, barbecue grill and an HD flat screen TV with a dish network. e cabins are set along the fairways of the 18-hole French Woods course that is cut through rock and forests, rolling up and over hills and featuring 20 ponds, dramatic elevations where you can see all the way to Pennsylvania and challenging doglegs. Currently French Woods’ “Golf ‘Til You Drop” package includes two nights lodging in a private cabin (or in the new Hancock House Hotel), unlimited golf with a cart, breakfast, lunch and dinner priced from$525 for two; from $925 for four. Now that’s a deal. Call 607-6375253. HancockHouseHotel.com
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Man-O-War | Mystical Golf | Myrtle Beach, SC
GO SOUTH Carolinas
e Carolinas are far enough south to offer mild weather and good golfing conditions most of the year and prices are lower across the board for hotels and golf courses in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach, Pawley’s Island and the North Brunswick Islands. For example at Mystical Golf ’s three tracks, e Witch, Man-O-War and e Wizard, it’s hard to beat their three day, three night, three round golf package with condo accommodations at Mystical Resort Golf Villas from $225 with a whole lot of freebies like lunches, beers, range balls, breakfasts and gift cards even a steak dinner. MysticalGolf.com e Pro Choice Trio Special from Sloane Vacations of Sunset Beach located in the Brunswick Islands, the more laid-back northern part of Myrtle Beach. You get three nights and three rounds with a cart for $340 per golfer with golf at Oyster Bay, Crow Creek and Sandpiper Bay and fairway condo lodging at Oyster Bay Golf Links or Sandpiper Bay Golf & Country Club. NCBrunswickgolf.com Also ask about a two-night, three round Winter Golf Getaway on Pawley’s Island where you play one of the region’s most coveted and expensive courses, the Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and its sister course, True Blue Golf Plantation for $219 per person between December 6 and January 27. e prices include range balls, taxes and resort fee and lodging in a two-bedroom golf villa at True Blue Plantation. A steal. Among the companies offering customized golf packages are Myrtle Beach National (MBN.com) and Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday (GolfHoliday.com).
Outer Banks
With fall temperatures typically in the mid 70s, North Carolina’s barrier islands or the Outer Banks (OBX) that lie off the coast of North Carolina are ideal golf destinations. Whereas the summer is tourist time with lots of traffic tooling up and down Rt. 12, the main highway connecting small villages like Corolla, Duck, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head, fall and winter is a different story. is is when Rt. 12 sheds its lines of traffic to provide an easy conduit for golfers who come to play tracks like Kilmarlic, Currituck Club, Carolina Club, the Point, Duck Woods, Sea Scape and Nags Head. Green fees are typically half what they are in high season with special packages offered by OBX Golf. After golf, you’ll find plenty of sand for your beach walks and tables in local restaurants will be a lot easier to snag while glimpses of the wild mustangs in Corolla remain free. OBXGolfTravel.com
Wild Mustangs of Corolla
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Hammock Beach Resort | Palm Coast, FL
GO FLORIDA
PGA Champion Course | Palm Beach Gardens, FL
The colder it gets up north, the pricier and busier it gets in Florida where like heat-seeking missiles, “snow birds” head south. Key destinations where you can play several courses, get first rate instruction and stay in fullservice resorts include PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens where you can play on five courses including the Champion course, venue for the Honda Classic. PGA’s Fall Escape & Play Package from $239 per person, per night includes unlimited golf, cart fees, club storage, 50% discount off David Leadbetter’s daily clinic, and breakfast. PGAResort.com At PGA Village, Port St. Lucie, you can play 54 holes of golf designed by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye. With the 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance, this is the “go-to” place if you want to hone your game - or learn it from scratch. e Center has a great staff of teaching pros plus tools to analyze all aspects of your game. Stay on site at the Hilton Garden Inn or in a Perfect Drive Villa and book a play and stay package like the three-night, three round deal priced from $390 with lodging, golf and cart, admission to the PGA Museum of Golf and all taxes. Also ask about golf school programs. PGAVillage.com
Hammock Beach Resort on Florida’s Palm Coast like Salamander’s other Grand Golf Resorts of Florida, (Reunion in Orlando and Innisbrook near Tampa) offer multiple courses, each giving golfers a distinctively different experience plus lodging a fullservice condo-style hotel and additional amenities including pools, spa, restaurants, tennis and children’s areas. SalamanderHospitality.com With 117 holes designed into neat layouts by Dye, Fazio, McCumber and Littler, along with places to stay where golfers feel at home and others hardly know the game exists because there are other things to do like kayaking and beachcombing, Amelia Island off the north coast of Florida is just heading into peak season. At the high end of the food chain, the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is perfect for those looking for impeccable service and top-notch facilities. The Golf Club of Amelia Island is within walking distance of the front entrance and there is a world-class spa and food so good, you won’t want to leave “the campus.” Whether you’re up for beef sliders or Florida snapper, you simply can’t find a tastier, better presented meal. Ritz’s Beaches and Bunkers package starting at $549 per night includes coastal view room, breakfast and golf for two, cart and use of beach umbrella. RitzCarlton.com
PGA Village Course | Port St. Lucie, FL
PGA National | Palm Beach Gardens, FL
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Dove Mountain | Tucson, AZ
GO WEST
Scottsdale, Arizona
Yes, it’s possible to tee up in Scottsdale at high end courses like the TPC Scottsdale Champions Course and Grayhawk as well as enjoy luxury accommodations at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess without digging too deeply into your family assets especially if you book Fairmont’s Championship Golf Package. You get accommodations, one round of golf per adult, per paid night, use of practice facility, and transportation to and from the course priced per person from $160 (single room); $105 (sharing room). You will also want to book a Golf Performance (or perhaps a Desert Hot Rock massage) at Fairmont’s Willow Stream Spa. Need some game improvement, sign up for a clinic with Jim McLean Golf School. Fairmont.com
Mesquite, Nevada
Fly into Las Vegas, stay a couple of nights, maybe hit the casinos and a couple of shows, then drive an hour north to Mesquite where you get a winning combo of great golf and good prices. Play the Chase at Coyote Springs Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus beauty; Sand Hollow Golf Resort; the Troon-managed Conestoga Golf Club; the Palmer Course at the Oasis Club, the former site of the Golf Channel’s “Big Break Mesquite;’’ Falcon Ridge affording awesome views of the desert countryside from some pretty serious elevations; and the Canyons Course at the Oasis Golf Club where more lofty views can knock your socks off. Named by the Wall Street Journal -Golf Europe as one of the “10 Best Places to Play Golf in the World,”
the surreal landscape of deep green fairways, red rock mountains and craggy ravines at Wolf Creek Golf Club take you on a roller coaster ride through the dramatic Mesquite canyons. For lodging there are hotels like the Eureka Casino Hotel and Falcon Ridge Hotel. Build your own golf vacation with Golf Mesquite Nevada. GolfMesquiteNevada.com
Tucson, Arizona
If 350 days of warm sunshine every year and average annual winter temperatures of 64 – 75º sound golffriendly, you’ve got it in Tucson, Arizona in the High Sonoran Desert. Set amidst giant, centuries old Saguaro cacti and jumping Chollas about 30 miles northwest of Tucson in Marana, e Ritz-Carlton at Dove Mountain is everything you'd expect it to be: understated, classy and expensive. Occupying more than 850 acres with another 3,000 undisturbed acres, the resort has three Nicklaus Signature nines: Saguaro, Tortolita and Wild Burro. ere are also three pools, several fire pits, tennis and a posh spa offering a huge array of services from hot rocks massages to couples treatments. Designed to fit naturally into the desert landscape and the hilly Tortolita Mountain Range, the ranch-style hotel, combines contemporary flair with Southwestern ambiance while the courses were built with keen sensitivity to the environment. Host to the Accenture Match Play Championship, playing Dove Mountain successfully requires good course management — many holes beg the question: go for it or lay up. e resort’s Unlimited Golf Package from $249 per person ($299 for two) includes accommodations, unlimited golf for one or two players, use of cart, practice facilities and breakfast daily. DoveMountain.com
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Good Looks on the Course
Striking while the Irons are Hot…or Not
by Elle Brec
e 2012 Ryder Cup turned the fairways into runways, with some hot looks and some just not. e 39th staging of golf's most competitive team encounter was graced with perfect autumn weather allowing the players and spectators to wear spectacular outfits for the entire event. Compared to 2010 when the parade of fashions was rained out and the only topic of conversation was waterproof suits, the formal suits both teams wore for the opening and closing ceremonies this year were striking. Team USA looked very GQ donning gray luster jackets and pants with gray matching ties. Team Europe styled in gray and black plaid sheen jackets and a Mediterranean blue tie paired with black pants.
e USA stars were in stripes. Team USA was honored with uniforms crafted by American designer Ralph Lauren, the originator of the polo himself. Staying true to the red, white and blue with classic lines and modern looks. Phil wearing navy blue crocodile belt and shoes made fans smile. e European Team outfitted by Glenmuir wore cranberry, the perfect color for fall. Also representing the color of Rory & Graeme’s Northern Irish flag de-
spite the fact that when Americans think of Ireland a vivid green instantly appears in the mind’s eye. Green was represented in the shade of olive, pasting fall colors together like a Tapenade. Of course, the fashion guru Ian Poulter coordinated each of his accessories perfectly with the color of the day, as his PUMA sneakers tie together this outfit so well. e footwear was not provided as part of the uniforms, each player stayed with the same brand they have been wearing
October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 13
all year. Keep in mind during the next golf shoe purchase, shoes are very individualistic, one style and brand does not fit all. e USA practice round gear was sharp, Tiger Woods shown here in pants that are red hot! ese are stunning; it is a wonder why Team USA did not wear them during official play.
NOT e USA practice outfit that Tiger is shown wearing is not white hot. While the origination of the no white pants (or shoes) after Labor Day rule was made
during the coal-shoveling era and is sometimes disregarded in today’s modern times, white pants scream summer, even if white is one of the colors of the flag there are other ways to represent it. One of the biggest fashion faux pas was the outerwear. It seemed the vests and sweaters did not exactly coordinate with the outfits. For example, Tiger is shown wearing the navy blue vest with navy blue pants and the navy blue striped shirt. e sweater matching this outfit was red, and the vest should have been red too, sorry RL. As if fans weren’t already bored of the navy blue pants and navy blue vest with white polo, Team Eu-
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rope wore a redundant version of this outfit as Peter Hanson is shown here representing. To make matters worse, they were both worn on Sunday! Swedish colors for Peter could have been a nice change with the bright blue and yellow/gold. Part of the fun for Team Europe is they have so many colors represented by different countries flags, embrace it. Another outerwear bogey, Glenmuir contributed with two different colors of tan as pictured here on Lee Westwood. is could have been remedied with a lighter shade of khaki and a light brown vest but these particular shades do not match. e core of this outfit is good and a reminder to go apple picking.
e Ryder Cup fans were so amazing, they deserve credit where due. ere are varieties of ways to show support for your country’s team. e cleverly designed 2012 Ryder Cup apparel with the names of Team USA as the red and white stripes of the flag are so hot as pictured here on Keegan Bradley’s mom as she hugs her son. As technology advances, old ways of doing things unfortunately become more rare. is distinguished lady appears to be quite the artisan in her knit Ryder Cup sweater. Hopefully technology will never advance to the point where there is no appreciation for craftsmanship. How unique and a great way to show
October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 15
support for the overall tourney. Amy Mickelson shows support for Team USA by waving her flag proudly in the air. She epitomizes class and demonstrates fall white done right, with her off-white shawl and off-white skirt. Other ladies showing off their fashion sense with the newest style to hit the ladies footwear industry, wedge sneakers! ese are great because they are both casual and dressy at the same time. Paired with the blue or red shirts, khakis, and off-white vests, they sure know how to dress.
e man who has the gumption to wear a bright pink stylish outfit must be applauded! With the adorable matching baby clothes, how cute and bold! What a perfect start for the pink ribbon October breast cancer awareness month.
NOT ere are ways to be bold and then there is support that is just downright comical from the fans of both
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teams. When Ian Poulter wears his British flag pants he was in the not hot category nevermind the four guys dressed in the British flag from head to toe. Equally silly on the USA side, this cartoon character definitely brought a version of excitement to the fans, however all the little kids were terribly afraid of him. Where do these outfits come from and how long does it take them to put them on? e blue man group grew some afros and added a couple stars to their outfits! ese “strange alien euro
men” as they were called, do not look comfortable and have bulges in the wrong places. It takes people from all types to make up the world, it’s not stylish but at least they are having fun. Even though it looks like this man’s hair is on fire, it is not hot! e 90s called and want this headbanger to return. ere appears to be a pink hair extension near the ear doesn’t seem to go with the rest of the ensemble and wrapped around the wires. Wireless headphones are so much better!
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Links of Ireland by NEGM Staff
Ireland is home to one third of all the links golf courses in the world. At its widest point, Ireland is only 174 miles wide and just over 300 miles long. ere is a mystique and magic about golf and life here in this land where games are played and stories told in a way like nowhere else in the world. If you are here, you are part of the celebration and the grace of life in this very special place. ere is a saying here, you are Irish when you are here, when you go you may take a little with you but be gone not long. It is not a question of if you are going to Ireland to play golf, it is only when and for how long. For John Sampson and I it was early September and we chose the Dublin region. An Aer Lingus Airbus out of Boston will get you to the Emerald Isle in just over 5 hours, a relatively easy jump across the pond. We chose a Friday night flight that dropped us into Dublin at 7:30 on Saturday morning. Driving in Ireland is a bit of an adventure with wrong side drive and narrow roads; it is not for the faint of heart. I was fortunate enough to have Mario Andretti Sampson behind the wheel, no problem. Ireland and Dublin especially are a bit of a challenge when it comes to signage and or directions that are clear, you may want to opt for a GPS system if you do decide to rent a car. Or go for the real adventure like John and I did the colored tourist map.
October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 19
Dublin is a great city and offers very diverse choices for hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Dublin, which is famous for its pubs and the home of Guinness and Jamison, offers great traditional Irish food and a full selection of international restaurants as well, the dinning here was fantastic. A great choice for location to stay is the City Center at St. Stevens Green, we choose the Fitzwilliam, which was wonderful and close to everything.
The European Club On our first day in Ireland we ventured south to Britta's Bay, County Wicklow to the famed European Club where Rory Mcllroy at 16, won the Irish open and Padraig Harrington honed his skills just days before his British Open win. We are welcome by Pat Ruddy who has been a golf writer and course designer for over 45 years, he is proud of his creation. e European Club proves to be nothing short of spectacular with green like fairways cut between mammoth dunes framed by some of the deepest fescue known to man. ere are over 20 holes here that can be interchanged to create many different layouts. At the 13th you will find a 128 yards long green that has countless pin possibilities. I am thinking what do you hit for a 375 foot put into a 35 mph wind. e day proves out to be nothing short of amazing and we celebrate it in classic Irish style with a Guinness or two.
The K Club For the second consecutive day in Ireland we have seem bright sunshine and warm temperatures in the 70's as we head southwest to the K Club home of the Ryder Cup just a few years back. After a good night rest and a great meal at the Fitzwilliam we are looking forward to another great day of golf on the Palmer Course at the K Club. After a stroll though the clubhouse with wall covered murals of the Ryder Cup we head out to play. e first few holes look more like Worcester Country Club then Straffan, Ireland but the character of the course is evident and Palmers style, which is strongly influenced, by Ross and Hill is truly a masterpiece. e Goliath hotel and stately homes along the course frame one of the greatest golf venues in the world. On the fifth hole we are joined by Emmet Savage and Sharon Smurfit the owners daughter and her boyfriend. e K club is a must play and a day on these links will bring the roars of the Ryder Cup back. It is an amazing place only outdone by the warmth and hospitality of the staff and friendly members who make you feel very much at home. After just 2 days in Ireland both John and I are convinced we could live here, no problem!
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The Island Club On day three we travel out just north of Dublin to Donabate, County Dublin to e Island Golf Club. In the late 1880's a group of 10 golfers who were forbidden to play golf on Sunday the Sabbath day rowed out to a coastal island and pitched a tent and put a steak in the ground christening the beginning of the Island Golf Club. Up until 1983 the only access to the course was still by boat. e massive dunes along a vast tidal basin are the backdrops for one of the most historic courses in the region. e course, which has remained mostly unchanged since it inception is narrow and becomes more about thinking than swinging. ere is very deep fescue and steep dunes that frame the layout with fast and hard ground beneath your feet. e most important piece of equipment in the bag on this day becomes our Sun Mountain rain gear, bucket hats and rain gloves. No Ryder Cup rain issues here just quality gear that keeps you warm and dry and fights off the elements without any issues, thank you Sun Mountain. After today I realize I have played golf but then again really never played golf until today. On the links with the wind, the weather and the heather I found the essence of the game, and I endured.
Portmanock It’s our final day in Ireland as we head north once again to hit the links of Portmarnock. ese seaside links were designed by Bernard Langer and are a classic example of new links design in Ireland. e Old Hotel at Portmarnock can been seen from almost every point on the course as it sits high above the course overlooking the Irish Sea. e course sits adjacent to the historic Portmarnock Golf club along a vast beach sweeping out into the bay. Along the first fairway sits an ancient graveyard and the resting place of John Jamison. It is a down and back classic links course by the sea. It is a fitting last round in Ireland with a touch warm sunshine, driven rain by constant wind then back to sun by rounds end. Overhead a constant line of Jet from all over the world ride the headwind into Údaras Aerfort Bhaile Átha Cliath, Dublin Airport a very busy international airport indeed.
After 4 days of golf at the European Club, e K Club, e Island Club and Portmarnock it becomes obvious to John and I that it just does not get any better than this. e golf courses and staff and overall facilities have all been lifetime experiences. ere are so many other courses in Ireland to play so there is sure to be a reunion in the cards in the future. As for Dublin, well you will just have to come to find the magic that is this place, and see for yourself. It is the little city that never sleeps and the people of Ireland are the glue that make it all work to perfection. I will miss this place, its people, its style and panache. e Guinness the pubs and the wonderful people who I have met here will always is a part of me. And as it was said to me tonight as I spoke of my leaving, " Be gone not long and may your journey be kind" For information go to tourismireland.com
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St. Andrews - Scotland The Home of Golf
I
f there is golf heaven, than it must be beautiful with amazing courses, friendly people and some of the best times ever. If there is golf heaven on earth then for sure it must be here in St. Andrews Scotland, the home of golf. An early morning flight over the Irish Sea and across Scotland takes us to Edinburgh, Scotland and the east coast of the United Kingdom. It is once again a very uncharacteristically sunny and warm day, as we make our way north to the home of golf. St. Andrews is a seaside town of about 20,000 along the North Sea with 15,000 permanent residence and about 6000 college students from all over the world at the St. Andrews University. As you make the turn into town you immediately see the Old Course Hotel and the links beyond reaching out into the sea. Just out of town to the north high on a hill sits the
Fairmont St. Andrews a majestic hotel and golf resort overlooking the bay and the city of St. Andrews. It is breathtaking from the outset to say the least as you drive by some of the finest links in the region on the way into the long lane way to the hotel. e 520 acre golf resort is unrivaled by any facility in the region and it’s stately opulence and style make it obvious why Conde Nast voted this one of " e Top 100 Golf Resorts in e World". As sunset sets up we drive into town and venture out to the Old Course for some photos and visit to Old Tom Morris Golf Shop .We find what turns out to be the best golfers pubs in St Andrews, e Dunvegan, just steps from the Old Course to celebrate our arrival. Over the next 4 days we will play golf here and the memories will never fade, this is truly a very special place.
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The Castle Course St. Andrews Links Trust
e wind here she blows, a steady pass, now straight and low, and learn the rule before you go, its better short beneath the hole, then long and deep in heathers hole. Play quick and smart along the way, and live to play another day. ere are 7 golf courses the St. Andrews Links Trust operates here in town that handle over 250,000 rounds yearly. e Castle Course is St. Andrews Links Trust newest course designed by Scottish course Architect David McLay Kidd. e dramatic layout over gorges and seaside farmland is stunning to say the least. On a sign in the men’s bath these words ring true, "e wind will own your game if you let it, look ahead and not behind and move at a players pace in this special place". e course may be the newest and just a baby as far as St Andrews other links but it truly a wonderful layout and great test of golf.
The Fairmont Torrance & Kittocks Courses Our next two rounds are at e Fairmont Torrance & Kittocks courses which sit side by side looking over St Andrews Bay and the town of St. Andrews with steep rock cliffs cascading to the rocky seacoast below. e Torrance course was built in 2001 and designed by renowned Scottish player Sam Torrance and often voted " Best Greens in Scotland " by many. e course, which is the Open Qualifier venue and home to the Scottish Senior Open, is long and firm and the greens are set at about 10.5 on a regular play basis. During competitive events they cut to 11-12. e wind the day we played was out of the blowing 3545 with gust to over 50. Play is traditionally suspended in any competitive event held at the Torrance course with wind above 30. is day proves to be the strongest challenge yet for us as we realize playing in the wind is an acquired talent that takes years of experience. On our final day e Kittocks Course at Fairmont St. Andrews turned out to be one of the most picturesque of the trip. Bruce Devlin's expertise in the game along with help from Sam Torrance and Gene Sarazen provided this course with the best of three great Golfers to make the kittock's truly a
unique golfing experience. Fairmont's St Andrew Golf resort is one of the finest we have ever visited with both the Torrance and Kittocks courses standing out as two of the finest in the region and a great practice facility and a spectacular clubhouse. e Fairmont also stands alone as the only true golf resort in St Andrews with first class accommodations, two great golf courses, a wonderful spa and great restaurants as well. e last night in town we were treated to a multi course masterpiece in Esperante overlooking the hotel atrium. St Andrews is every golfers bucket list. Adding a few days to visit Eastern Ireland makes a lot of sense as part of you trip. I know now I will come back to Ireland to once again play golf and enjoy this special place, But even more so back to St Andrews where the game of golf began. For Every Golfer it’s a simple dream at sometime during their life to get to play in the land of golf’s beginnings it burns inside our souls like an eternal light. For more info and photos go mynegm.com/ categor y/2012-trip-to-scotland-and-ireland/ fairmont.com/st-andrews-scotland/ and standrews.co.uk.
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W
hat is the Bermuda Goodwill Tournament? It is the longest running Pro-Am in history and was founded in 1953 by the Bermuda Golf Association to promote the island of Bermuda and bestow goodwill upon all who participate. e Bermuda Goodwill takes place on Bermuda’s finest courses, including Port Royal Golf Course, current home to the PGA Grand Slam of Golf. e event features four days of competition, over four different courses and a maximum of 120 pro-am teams. e Goodwill was originally played at three courses: Riddells Bay Golf & Country Club, Belmont Hotel and Mid Ocean Club. In 1966, Castle Harbour Golf Course (now known as Tucker’s Point Golf Club) replaced Riddells Bay and in 1972 Port Royal Golf Course was introduced as the tournament was expanded and played over four courses. With five top level courses to choose from, it has allowed Port Royal,
24 | Enter a Team at BermudaGoodwill.bm
Tuckers Point and Belmont to be taken out of the rotation over the years whilst their courses were redeveloped, leaving Mid Ocean Club as the only course that has been played for every single tournament. The tournament field will be divided into four flights and this year teams will play 18 holes each at Port Royal Golf Club, Riddell’s Bay Golf & Country Club, Mid Ocean Club and Tucker's Point Club. ere will be many prizes, including daily team low gross and low net, longest drive and closest to the pin competitions. Port Royal Golf Course is our most popular course and recently underwent a $14 million renovation. Legendary golf architect Robert Trent Jones combined undulating terrain and dramatic oceanside cliffs to create an unforgettable golf experience. e course has a driving range, pro shop, and on-site dining. ey will hosting the PGA Grand Slam of Golf for the fourth time in October 2012.
Bermuda The Perfect Place for Goodwill Golf
Holes places perilously close to the ocean heighten the challenge at Riddells’ Bay, the elder statesman of Bermuda country clubs. e course is built on a 600 acre peninsula and is a challenge for all levels of golfers, e Club features a pro shop and dining options. Mid Ocean Club is a private club with a championship 18-hole golf course, guest rooms, full-service clubhouse, tennis courts and beaches. Ranked by experts as one of the best links in the world, Mid Ocean emphasizes the long game with six par 4s over 400 yards. Mid Ocean was previously home to the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in 2007 and 2008. Tucker’s Point Golf Club is brimming with character and the par-70 course is the island's premier golf experience. Originally designed in 1932 by Charlies H. Banks, the scenic championship course was completely redesigned in 2002 by Roger Rulewich, the former chief
designer for Robert Trent Jones. e TifEagle greens are a perfect complement to the pristinely manicured course set within the lush, tropical landscape of Bermuda Professionals will compete in a 72-hole Stableford tournament and the professional purse of $65,000 will be divided into three sections: Men's Junior Division, Men's Senior Division (50+) and the Ladies Division. e event offers club professionals the opportunity to invite their members for a great week of golf and special events in Bermuda. Pro-Am teams are comprised of one club professional and three amateurs. Complete tournament information and team entry forms can be found on www.BermudaGoodwill.bm as well as a Facebook page fb.com/BermudaGoodwillGolfTournament and Twitter @BermudaGoodwill. For more information contact Susie Kendell Marshall at 441-295-9972 or email Goodwill@BermudaGolf.org.
Enter a Team at BermudaGoodwill.bm | 25
Couple of Travelers by Alice and Danny Scott
The Alluring Azores
Ancient stone walls delineate perimeters of past and present boundaries, an artistic contrast to the brilliant green carpeted hillsides above the deep blue shoreline of Sao Miguel. One of nine islands in the subtropical volcanic archipelago west of mainland Portugal, it is a hub where fishing, cruise ships and yachts dock from around the world. e Marina Atlántico Hotel has the best balcony views of the harbor activities. A hearty breakfast buffet awakens the golfer for a day of play. Green mountains splattered by black and white cows trail to the sea, leaving city signs behind en route to Batalha Golf Course. Architect Mackenzie Ross designed an endurance test as most players walk with a pull cart from hilltop to valleys. e brilliant purple Morning Glory laces the fairways. e game is tough but the scenery spells peace on this 27 hole lay-
out where Cook pines and pampas grass intermingle with many ocean views. e Hole 4A tee box is framed by weathered remnants of an archaic stone habitat. An elevated sea view, green forested mountains penetrating the sky to the left, the short rock wall slithering all the way to the green, fairway bunkers on one side, ponds on the other, Kapalua, Hawaii meets Chiang Mai, ailand. is is where the Ladies Access Tour played out when a tropical storm threatened the drainage of the flatter nearby Furnas Golf Course. While Furnas does not have ocean views, it is a horticultural wonder with artistic landscaping from rich blue hydrangea blossoms larger than heads, to exotic palms, and towering Japanese firs. e third Azores course is on the island of Terceira, a short flight away. e Azores is an alluring golf destination for mixing
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a few challenging scenic rounds with cultural and bio diversity. e volcanic origins of the islands avail multiple thermal spring spots. e Caldeira Hot springs has steaming pools too hot for humans but perfect for underground cooking of corn and stew. A light sulfur infusion contrasts with the floral aroma at Terra Nostra Garden in Furnas where two guys from Toronto said they make an annual trek of their ancestral and medicinal bathing tradition in the immense circular stone tiled pool filled with yellow liquid. Get past the color and slip into the silky warmth of the thermal iron water, gazing up at the sky and exotic trees. Optional concentrated hot water spouts gush on the neck, back and shoulder relieving all pain and stress. Five Euros buys a towel, access to changing rooms and the gardens, delivering a sense of well being so pronounced, you may think your slice has been cured. From the hot springs, advance to steaming tea, organically grown onsite at the Cha Gorreana Tea Plantation. e surrounding sub tropical paradise slips into the crystal Atlantic for dramatic views. e north shore attracts professional surfers from all over the world and international sailing regattas rendezvous. For beach lovers, snorkelers and divers, the Bahia Palace Hotel
opens up to soft black lava sand. e Caloura Hotel Resort is for lovers as sea cliff views invoke romance. e dining salon has floor to ceiling windows serving 180 degree vistas and culinary delicacies. e filet of steak au gratin with island fresh pineapple and shrimp will be attempted in the home kitchen. e only diet plan is to “Taste Portugal.” Sao Miguel is absent of impoverishment that blights so many foreign islands. People are self sufficient, preserving family business and happiness. is is epito
mized at Quinta de Pico de Cruz where a dancing horse and rider leads patrons in the dark through the long tree lined entrance for an introduction of the family – mother, father, sons and Lusitano horses. Dinner follows in an elegant yet quaint dining hall. A fresh breeze blows in as the table side windows open to reveal a magical scene. A green arena sparkles against the dark mountain, culminating with a surprise late night show. e passionate music, harmonic partnering of man and equestrian athleticism put “Dancing with the Stars” to shame.
When, not if you want to experience the astounding beauty of the Azores, SATA airlines has a four hour direct flight from Boston. If you go by way of Lisbon from any international city, consider extra days there and or in Algarve for more great golf- but that is a future story. e beauty of the islands is more than a sight, it is a sense. We sense a definite desire to explore more in the Azores. Click on the English flag at www.AzoresGolfIslands.com for details.
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Furnas Golf Course, located on the Ilha de S達o Miguel
Just fore hours from Boston With the winter season setting in, many golf fans begin looking for warm places to play. Golf fans needing a fresh new place to go should consider the Azores. Just four hours by plane from Boston, the Azores Islands are the closest point in Europe to the United States.
Azores Stay & Play Package starting at just $1,089 non-stop air from Boston 3 nights hotel w/ breakfast 3 rounds of golf Includes all taxes & fees Call 800-762-9995 to book today!
e Azores are nine Portuguese islands, traditionally known for a year-round Spring climate, sea cliffs, long beaches, fishing villages and ancient palaces. ese volcanic islands are mountainous inland, and partially forested. ere are also several hot springs and spas. Island areas range between 400 square miles on São Miguel to nine square miles on Corvo. With three courses, golf is special here. Azoresgolf on São Miguel operates two world-class courses, the 1939 Furnas course, and the new Batalha course. e golf course at Furnas on São
Miguel has been described by travel writer David Sayers as, “ one the world’s most intimate and exquisitely beautiful courses, given its mountain setting with sheltering forests and numerous elegant tree ferns.” Built in 1996 and refurbished with nine new holes in 2003, Golfe da Batalha has long fairways and large greens, with views over the sea on the first nine and superb landscapes on the second nine. Both courses take advantage of vistas and natural features to offer a unique golfing experience. Terceira has an newly expanded 18 hole course that is near the sea on the North Coast.
AzoresGolfIslands.com/en
Celebrity Golfer: Stacy Lewis
by Leigh MacKay
I first met Stacy Lewis this past January at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Stacy had just learned that Meg Mallon would be the captain of the U.S. Solheim Cup team at Colorado GC in 2013. Stacy, who had been on the losing side at Killeen Castle, Ireland, was pleased. “Meg will be a great leader, and she is just what the team needs.” Despite the Solheim Cup loss, Stacy, after three years of steady improvement since turning pro in 2008, had a breakout year in 2011. She made her first win a major - the Kraft Nabisco Championship - coming from two strokes down on the back nine to defeat Yani Tseng, World’s #1. Stacy quickly moved into the LPGA’s elite and onto golf magazine covers. Her outstanding play also enticed sponsors, and she now has business relationships with Antigua, IQ Plus Golf Bars, KPMG, Marathon Petroleum, Mizuno, Power Balance, Pure Silk Shave Cream, Titleist/FootJoy, and Vedalo HD eyewear. With 2011 as her watershed year on Tour, I asked her, “What is your goal for 2012?” She looked at me directly and said clearly, “I would like to become the topranked American player in the world.” In winning her third tournament of the year on September 23, the Navistar LPGA Classic, to go along with the Mobile Bay LPGA Classic and the ShopRite LPGA Classic, Stacy, now 27, is currently the topranked American player in the world! Paula Creamer (13) and Cristie Kerr (14) are her closest American counterparts, followed by Angela Stanford (16), Brittany Lincicome (19), Lexi ompson (22), and Brittany Lang (27). Equally important, she is now ranked second in the Women’s World Golf Rankings behind Tseng. Most important, perhaps, with six events remaining on Tour, she is the points leader for the Rolex Player of the Year honor and should become the first American since Beth Daniel in 1994 to win it. Stacy, who grew up outside of Houston and played
at e Woodlands, was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 11. She was strapped into a back brace for 18 hours a day for seven years, only taking it off when she played high school golf. In 2003 of her senior year, however, she underwent a very difficult back operation that inserted a rod and five metal screws into her spine. e surgery was a success, but she could not twist or bend for six months and was redshirted her freshman year at the University of Arkansas, from where she graduated in 2008 with a double major in finance and accounting. When she could play golf for the Razorbacks, she was nothing short of sensational, winning 12 college tournaments, the 2007 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship, and numerous SEC and AllAmerica accolades. In 2008, she was a member of the victorious U.S. Curtis Cup team and became the first player ever to compile a 5-0 record. For more information about Stacy, go to her website: www.StacysBack.com. NEGM: How do you spend your “free” time while on Tour? SL: I do not have a lot of free time, but when I do, I like to see the sights of the towns where we play or just relax. I do work out regularly and watch SEC football when I can. NEGM: What institutions/charities do you support? SL: I support two worthwhile causes: the Scoliosis Research Society and Golf Fore Africa. In 2010 during the off-season, I traveled with [LPGA Hall of Famer] Betsy King to Rwanda to help African children orphaned by AIDS, and I met the little girl I had been sponsoring. NEGM: What are your favorite stops on Tour? SL: ere are many that I like, but the Kraft in Palm Springs and the Arkansas event are two special ones. NEGM: Has the 2012 season met your own expectations? SL: Yes, the three victories have surpassed my expectations, but I still have a lot more to accomplish this year if I can. NEGM: Where do you feel you need improvement? In your swing, short game, mental side? SL: I need to continually improve managing my emotions down the stretch of tournaments.
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NEGM: What are your goals for 2013? SL: Truthfully, I have not gotten that far yet. I still have work to do this year. But I know I would like to get to the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s circle when I have that chance to win, especially in the majors. NEGM: You must be anticipating your second Solheim Cup next year? Will the US be ready to win? SL: Yes, I am excited for the Solheim in Colorado, and we have been looking forward to the event since Ireland. I hope we are ready. NEGM: Who would be in your Dream Foursome of today? Of any time period? SL: My dream foursome would be my dad and my two college coaches, Shauna Estes-Taylor and Kelley Hester. NEGM: What advice do you have for young girls who would like to become competitive golfers? SL: Go to college, work hard, and have fun. î &#x201C;e rest will take care of itself. Leigh MacKay is a freelance golf writer and a frequent contributor to New England Golf Monthly and Fairways of Life Magazine. Leigh is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America, the International Network of Golf.
SARA BAY COUNTRY CLUB
Founded in 1926, Sara Bay Country Club is a private, member-owned golf club located just north of downtown Sarasota. Designed by legendary architect Donald Ross, it is recognized as one of the most prestigious clubs in Florida, and where the integrity of the game has been preserved. Sara Bay..."Golf is our passion... Is it yours?"
SARA BAY COUNTRY CLUB | (941) 355-7658 | sarabaycc.org 7011 Willow St., Sarasota, 34243 | membership.sbcc@verizon.net
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Two Good Rounds East Lake - Where ‘Winning’ Involves Much More than a Big Paycheck. by Elisa Gaudet Who would have thought that East Lake Golf Club, the home golf course of Bobby Jones and the man who transformed the game of golf, would be the model for transforming a community? East Lake in Atlanta is the permanent home of the Tour Championship, the season-ending event of the PGA Tour and the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Interestingly, the FedEx Cup has America ’s third-largest purse awarded in sports according to Forbes. Ranked only behind the Super Bowl ($15.5 million) and the World Series ($14.8 million), the winner of the FedEx Cup collects a cool $10 million bonus. Remarkably, the area where the tournament is held was once known as “little Vietnam” because of its extremely harsh living conditions, including crime rates 18
bining public and private objectives. A key element of the approach is the establishment of mixed-income communities, where half the residents receive public housing subsidies and the other half pay full-market rents. These communities offer attractive services and amenities, including a pool, tennis courts, public golf course, job training, charter schools, an elementary school, a daycare center and a YMCA. They’re part of a network of nationwide communities that are building brighter futures, strengthening human and physical capital, and helping families break the cycle of poverty. Since the transformation of East Lake , crime is down 87 percent and the school district has one of the highest average test scores in the Atlanta area.
Charles R. Drew Charter School | Atlanta, GA times the national average and 87 percent joblessness. It was a place with little hope until one man’s vision triggered an amazing renaissance. Just like Bobby Jones, Tom Cousins had a vision and dared to try something many of us couldn’t even imagine. Both men can be credited for their ability to revitalize, energize and inspire. They say “A rising tide lifts all boats.” No one embraced that adage more than Cousins, who created a sustainable model for improved living. His Purpose Built Communities began with the East Lake Community in the mid-1990s and is now a model for 25 other blighted areas - in various stages of planning and development - in New Orleans, Newark, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Cousins, a real estate developer who built the CNN Tower and much of Atlanta ’s skyline, saw a way to mitigate poverty and transform poor neighborhoods by making a paradigm shift. The concept of Purpose Built Communities is to create a holistic revitalization by com-
In 1993, Cousins took over historic East Lake Golf Club, which had fallen on hard times. He restored the private course with the understanding that any profits would benefit the East Lake Foundation (www.eastlakefoundation.org). To date, more than $20 million in proceeds from club operations have gone to support the foundation, which has helped turn one of the nation’s worst public housing projects into a thriving community. Golf is a sport that excites and unites many of us, not only as spectators but as participants. What began as a spark, revitalizing a historic golf club, ignited the dramatic transformation of an entire community and improved the lives of many. According to Cousins, while the excitement of the Tour Championship brings a great deal of attention to the Atlanta area, he would prefer to highlight the lessons taught by East Lake ’s Purpose Built Community. He quotes from an old Southern chapel songbook: “It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing, pass it on, pass it on.”
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Jimmy Fund Golf Classic
Gino Cappelletti Receives Jimmy Award
Pictured (from l to r): Director of the Jimmy Fund, Suzanne Fountain, Gino Cappelletti and WEEI’s John Dennis. Photo by Gary Gartley.
BOSTON -- Former Patriot and longtime Jimmy Fund supporter Gino Cappelletti was presented with the 2012 Jimmy Award at the 30th annual Jimmy Fund Golf Classic on Monday, Oct. 1, at The International Golf Club in Bolton, Mass. Jimmy Fund Director, Suzanne Fountain presented Cappelletti with the award, which was in honor of his work in helping Jimmy Fund Golf raise critical funds to support cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Classic is an annual event that recognizes tournament organizers and sponsors who helped raise more than $6.4 million in 2012. Nearly 250 people attended the day of golf, which was followed by a reception. The Jimmy Award was established in 1983 to honor those who have committed themselves to the mission of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund. Cappelletti spent his 11-year career in the American Football League with the Boston Patriots, one of only 20 players to have played for the AFL for its entire existence. Following his career as a player and coach, Cappelletti turned to broadcasting, extending his relationship with the Patriots as a color commentator on New England
Patriots Radio Network for another 33 years. Years ago, when Capelletti’s close friend and golf buddy was looking for a way to honor his grandson, who was being treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at Dana-Farber’s Jimmy Fund Clinic, Cappelletti suggested creating a charity golf tournament to support the cause. In 1998, Cappelletti helped organize the A.L.L. Open and continues to serve as the tournament’s celebrity host, help secure sponsors, and play in the tournament every year. Cappelletti actively promotes Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund’s lifesaving mission, driving fundraising and awareness. He has also been an inspiration and friend to his friend’s grandson who is now a healthy Merrimack College freshman who hopes to join the school’s football team this fall. Jimmy Fund Golf has become one of the most successful charity golf programs in the nation, raising millions annually for cancer care and research at Dana-Farber. Since 1983, Jimmy Fund Golf has raised more than $91 million for life-saving adult and pediatric cancer research and care by hosting more than 150 tournaments throughout the country.
October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 33
SUPPORT THE JIMMY FUND
THANK YOU! Jimmy Fund Golf thanks our 2012 sponsors for helping us raise nearly $6.5 million for cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED: sȩȩ 3tart a traditional tournament sȩȩ&UNDRAISEȩATȩYOURȩCOUNTRYȩCLUB ȩȩ ȩ ȩ ȩ ȩ sȩȩ 2un a mini-golf event sȩȩ /RGANIZEȩAȩgolf ȩ ȩ marathon sȩȩ"ECOMEȩAȩSPONSOR ȩȩ ȩ ȩ
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Eagle Sponsor: Birdie Sponsors: AMICA INSURANCE CAINS FOODS NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY Fairway Sponsors: THE AIZENSTADT FAMILY JURAN INSTITUTE LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE TARGET
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www.OceanCi
1-800-4-OC
ityGolf.com
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At OceanCityGolf.com, you can plan and book your golf getaway in Ocean City, MD 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 in Ocean City, MD by visiting OceanCityGolf.com or call (800) 4-OC-GOLF.
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Simulate Your Game - New England! Celebrating Indoor Golf Technology, Training Aids, Facilities and more by Ed Travis Winter golf in the Northeast while sometimes possible is usually not much fun and occasional trips to warmer temperatures just don’t cut it, so what’s a confirmed golf-a-holic to do? A good answer (though not necessarily an inexpensive one) is take advantage of the latest in computer technology of a golf simulator at a local facility or installation in your home. As the name says, simulators “simulate” playing a round of golf on a course layout projected on a screen or for the less expensive units on a computer. Simulators are great for a family fun night or playing an entire round competing against your friends or simply keeping your swing fine tuned when there’s snow on the ground. In choosing a simulator take the time to research how the unit depicts shots. Most simulators give a realistic screen image but it’s also important how each unit stores and displays swing data so you can use them as a self-teaching tool. Additionally some models have the capability to double as home theaters or video game play stations and come with sides that fold out of the way making them potential ‘man-cave’ must haves. The bottom line is golf simulators are a lot of fun to use and may even help you improve your swing while providing hours of entertainment, but do your research and thoroughly check out features and pricing.
AboutGolf makes several models of simulators but unless you have an abundance of room the compact basic one is a good choice. The enclosure may be customized with hard walls and the unit has a durable full screen plus a 19” touch screen to display data and their proprietary 3Trak machine vision software. This is a serious system with good graphics and the standard launch monitor data collection. It all fits into a manageable space of 12’ wide by 16’ long by 10’ 6” high. The company has been in business for over 20 years with worldwide marketing and has endorsement deals with the PGA Tour and the Golf Channel. Entry level pricing is $21,500 but of course that depends on how many bells and whistles you need.
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Full Swing Golf The Champion version simulator from Full Swing has some very nice features including the E6 live motion software package. Full Swing prides itself on making the golf experience realistic and their E6 software makes use of powerful graphics hardware and software. As the company says, “Waves crash at Pebble Beach, clouds drift at St. Andrews, and rain showers fall at Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand.” Full Swing in-house CAD ensures each installation will fit the space requirement with the basic enclosures measuring 20’ long by 13’ wide by 10.5’ high. Included is a 17” touch screen for controlling the system. Of interest is the option to add Swing Catalyst that includes swing balance analysis to the usual club and ball data collection.
High Definition Golf Based in Canada, High Definition Golf simulators run the gamut of technical sophistication and do not require a special sub-floor for sensors and retractable soft sides. The frame and screen are self-supporting using floor bolts with no wall or ceiling modifications. The Executive model take a space 9’ high by 12’ wide by 20’ long to set up and makes use, as do all the company’s simulators, of Interactive Sports Technologies 3D modeling for that combines high resolution digital images, satellite data and geophysical data into 3D models. This means the screen images are accurate everywhere on the course showing every tree, bunker and hazard. The computer stores detailed shot data with video swing analysis display on an easy to use plug and play touch screen. Pricing starts at $40,000.
Dancin’ Dogg - OptiShot The practice mat with 16 infrared optical sensors is the heart of this system and it may used with regular or foam golf balls (3 included). For $399 the basic unit includes software for a Windows computer, a 10 foot long USB cable and 14-preloaded courses, including host sites of the 2010 U.S. Open (“Monterey Classic”) and PGA Championship (“Whispering Dunes”), as well as The Players Championship (“Ponte Vedra”). Swing data is reported for clubhead speed, face angle, swing path, distance, tempo and contact (toe/center/heel) plus there are play and practice modes. They offer a premium package which includes a hitting net, a driver (not necessary but specially design for use with the unit) and more course layouts.
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Trying to lower that handicap?
e only way to get your handicap down is to practice, practice, practice… And know what you’re doing wrong so you can quit hitting a slice into that pond. Sure you can go to the driving range and hit 4 BUCKETS of golf balls, but are you really gaining anything other than sore arms? A recent P3ProSwing user told us that he’s “been a driving range devotee for 25 years and only managed to get my handicap down to 11.” By using his P3ProSwing analyzer software, in 18
months he says his handicap has “gone down from 11 to 2.” What an improvement! If you’re not seeing improvement by simply going to the driving range, try a P3ProSwing. You might be surprised at how good your golf game can be!
Call us today at 1-877-737-7646 for an estimate or view our simulators online at www.p3proswing.com “e best golf investment I've made.”
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What happens to your golf game when the snow flies? Nothing good you say? Golf during the winter is difficult, due to all that white stuff on the ground called snow. Unless you can afford to live in Florida. For those of us who can’t, our golf game fades like the green grass and we have to gear back up in the spring. What if you could keep improving all year long? You can with a P3ProSwing. Imagine what your buddies would say at that first golf outing of the spring. I imagine it would be something like “I wish I could have played all winter.” Be the envy of all your friends when your drive is looking like a pro’s this spring.
Visit p3proswing.com Use Promo code 10GM2012 for 10% off all packages! October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 41
Simulate Your Game - New England!
by Ed Travis
Indoor Aids and Devices to Simulate Your Game
Snow season doesn’t mean you have to give up thoughts of improving your golf swing. There are lots of training aids & devices so you can work on perfecting your swing in the off season indoors and at the same time even provide yourself a little exercise on those cold winter evenings. The training aid field is crowded with many devices and some have only limited use so as a service to our readers NEGM took a look at the aids and devices on the market and here are our favorites.
PowerSwing Trainer by Golf Gym
The PowerSwing Trainer is deceptively simple – a golf grip with a length of what looking like surgical tubing and a looped strap foot piece. To use it put the foot piece around the left foot (for right handers), grip the grip and make a complete golf swing. The resistance from the tubing provides plenty of tension on the backswing and forces the body, arms and hands into the correct positions. On the downswing again the tension causes the proper swing sequence and eliminates the most common swing fault of amateurs – coming over the top. Repetitive use of the PowerSwing Trainer teaches the user to make a proper swing and additionally it’s good exercise. Included in the kit that comes with the Trainer are a DVD with 23 exercises and warm ups plus an instruction book and even a carry bag all for $34.99.
Speed Whoosh by Momentus
Every golfer wants to hit the ball further and to do that the secret is not to swing harder but swinging faster. The Speed Whoosh consists of a shaft and grip without a clubhead and a ball that slides up and down the shaft. The Speed Whoosh weighs the same as a driver and to use it push the ball up the shaft to the grip where it is held in place by a magnet and swing. Increase speed gradually from one swing to the next and after a few swings your muscles are used to the faster speed. When you switch to your driver you can expect, according to Momentus, a gain of seven to ten mph in clubhead speed. That translates in to perhaps as much as 30-yards additional off the tee. Not only does the Speed Whoosh help with more distance it also has the benefit of smoothing out your swing’s timing since the sliding ball provides instant feedback of how the club was released. Available for $79.96.
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Wintertime indoor practice of course doesn’t provide the chance to see a well struck driver shot soaring off the tee or an iron spinning to a stop next to the pin without using one of those expensive golf simulators. However there are some devices giving loads of swing information that allows you to measure your swing results and practice the correct swing to be ready for the first sign of spring.
SwingSmart Golf Analyzer by NewSpin Golf
The SwingSmart gives instant feedback about your swing with a very small unit (under an ounce) that clips to the club shaft and communicates with your mobile device. You get data on swing tempo, angle of attack, speed and face angle plus a 3-D image of your swing’s path you may view from any angle. Using Bluetooth technology for data transfer, the SwingSmart sensor module ($249.99) also works very well for putting and ‘personal best’ information is stored for future reference. These features make the SwingSmart useful in the off-season as a practice and training tool. There’s even a mode that captures data without having to hit a ball. The app is available from the iTunes store and soon will be in the Android Marketplace.
Swingbyte Golf Analyzer
Everyone who sees, much less tries Swingbyte 3D swing analyzer, really likes it using words such as, “neat” or “amazing.” The reason is simple and so is its use. Attach Swingbyte to a club shaft just below the grip and swing. Data and graphics describing the swing, including club head path and swing plane, can be seen at once on a tablet or smartphone. Key fob-sized, weighing less than an ounce and using mobile technology, as the club makes contact with the ball the Swingbyte transmits a digitized version of the swing to Apple and Android smartphones and tablets for viewing or archived in the cloud for future reference. The $149 introductory price includes the Swingbyte unit, the smartphone app and access to premium online content and service for one year which eventually will cost $49.
3Bays Golf Swing Analyzer
The 3Bays Golf Swing Anlayzer is really small at ⅓ ounce and since it fits in the hole at the end of the club grip its unobtrusive as well. Its motion sensors capture over 10,000 pieces of data on each swing you make. The information is then sent to your mobile device so you can see your swing’s arc and measurements of clubhead speed, face angle and other factors plus be able to compare them from swing to swing, making the 3Bays GSA a great teaching tool. If you want and are into this kind of thing it even gives you the option of sharing your swing and improvements on Facebook, Twitter or via email. The cost for use with an iPad, iPhone or an Android device is $199.99. October / November 2012 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com| 43
Sampson’s Spotlight presented by GolfTrainingAids.com SNAG – Starting New At Golf - Gym Class Anyone? by Greg Sampson
The Claim: Starting New at Golf is a fun game that is easy to learn and can be played anywhere such as in the gym, on a soccer field or on the beach. SNAG is being used to introduce children to the game of golf at over 5000 schools in the U.S. and over 8000 worldwide. SNAG is played in a modified format that includes full shots, pitches, chipping and putting. Any age level or ability can learn the simple rules, terminology and learning techniques to build strong fundamentals of the different strokes /swings for an effective transition into the game of golf. The Test: I was a SNAG coach for the golf class at a
summer camp not to long ago using SNAG to teach the kids the basics of the game. SNAG features two clubs in the system The Roller and The Launcher to first teach the children the difference between a stroke and a swing as well as how to properly grip the club by placing their left thumb on yellow and their right thumb on right. In practice the children were taught how to line the small tennis ball up at the target by placing the ball on a tee matching the arrow on the ball to the arrow on the launch pad. They were then taught to roll the ball
toward the Flagsticky with The Roller and to chip, pitch and launch the ball using The Launcher. Lastly they were taught that there were nine SNAGholes with point totals of 3, 4, 5 and 6. Each time they strike the ball with either club it was a point and the object was to complete each hole in the least amount of points as possible.
The Verdict: The SNAGsters understood how to hold the club very easily and quickly grasped that a stroke was used with The Roller and a swing was used for chipping, pitching and launching. The concept of points also made complete sense to the youngsters. I would recommend this game and learning system to any parent, gym teacher or golf professional who is serious about introducing children to the wonderful game of golf. A Player’s Pak, which includes a Roller, Launcher, Launch Pad, Balls and a Flagsticky can be purchased for just over $100. SNAG also offers full packages for schools to teach and play SNAG in gym classes as well. SNAG is without a doubt the ONLY way to learn the great game of golf because it is simple, fun and can be used virtually anywhere.
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Putt Like A Pro
Important Warning: Pro Putt Systems greens have been known to cause frequent and overextended visits from sometimes unwanted friends and relatives. These greens have been known to be the root cause of club championships, record low scores and a very high percentage of one putts. If these symptoms persist for more than 4 hours, a condition known as proputterism may be present, good, that’s normal. Pro Putt Systems indoor putting greens were designed by golfers for golfers. At Pro Putt, we combine the best modular base system with the Number 1 synthetic putting turf on earth. The look and playability of a Pro Putt Systems green is unmatched in indoor golf. Our goal is to serve the discerning golfer. The golfer who wants meaningful practice that will translate into lower scores on the course. The best way to lower your golf score is to improve your putting. Not everyone has time to visit the course and roll 10 footers every day.
When you have a high quality green at your home, you’ll be able to practice putting at any time day or night. Before a round, after dark, before work, watching tv in the evening, you’ll be able to go roll a few putts any time you wish. This is how professionals keep their strokes fresh. Maybe your putting just needs work? We get reports back from customers all the time that they have lowered their handicaps by 4 and even 6 shots in as little as 3 months after they began practicing on a Pro Putt Systems putting green. Pro Putt is a division of East Coast Synthetic Turf, we’ve been building beautiful backyard practice greens for high profile clients throughout the MidAtlantic region for nearly a decade. Now you can have our award winning putting turf in your home for a fraction of the cost of an outdoor putting green. The best part is, Pro Putt greens are fully portable. If you move, your putting green can move with you. The base system fits together like a puzzle and the turf rolls into a neat tube for easy storage.
Visit us online at www.ProPuttSystems.com and pick out your perfect putting green this holiday season. Putt Like A Pro!
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The Tour at SSCC
The Tour at the South Shore Country Club is the pre- from the SSCC staff are available throughout the winter mier winter golfing option on the South Shore offering as well. To book a tee time, lesson or private party ranging three simulator bays. Golfers at The Tour are treated to a from office parties to birthday parties please call 781-749state of the art golfing facility that allows them to play up- 1747. Please also visit us on the web at www.thetourwards of 30 courses from around the world without ever golfbar.com. The Tour at South Shore Country Club is leaving Hingham. The Tour is also a full-service sports bar located at 274 South Street, Hingham MA 02043. We The Selection of with pub fare served up by the Greenside Grille. LessonsWorldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope to seeLargest you soon!
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Putt Like A Pro
Welcome to Optigolf in Middleton, MA! Since opening in December 2011, Optigolf has already become one of the premier indoor golf and entertainment centers in New England. At 7,000 square feet we’ve got everything needed, and then some, for an enjoyable experience. Most importantly, a full bar and 9 state-of-the-art simulators featuring 75 world class courses, and the only real putting experience in the golf simulator industry. Every putt inside 20 feet comes to life as each simulators technology combines with our own putting
greens to recreate every putt before your eyes while taking score into your own hands. After all that, we’ve rounded out the facility with arcade games, a pool table, 7 TV’s plus a 14 inch projection big screen that plays any and all sporting events. We also offer leagues, lesson’s from PGA Professionals, corporate events and a delicious array of foods. To make a tee time contact us @ 978-539-8725, or make one online through our website middleton.optigolfcenters.com. Optigolf is located at 220 S. Main St. Middleton, MA.
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Gonzo’s Indoor Golf - Perfect Weather Each And Every Round! Vermont’s only Indoor Golf Center and Sports Bar with 8 High Definition Golf Simulators. Featuring a Full Bar, 10 HD Tv’s, 2 Pool Tables, Ping Pong, Darts & Foosball. Gonzo’s also offers Award Winning PGA Instructors, PGA Club Fitting and Repair, Leagues, Corporate Outings and Parties. Visit us at 1860 Williston Road, suite 2, South Burlington, Vermont 05403
For more information call 802-8810660 or visit us on the web at www.gonzosindoorgolf.com where you can take a virtual tour or enter to win great prizes.
Chip Shots
Chip Shots is a sports pub with a twist of golf. Chip Shots features two PGA Tour aboutGolf Simulators with 40 different courses. Enjoy our full pub menu and bar during the round or watch your favorite game on over a dozen flat screen TV’s. Chip Shots is also a wonderful location for functions and parties for up to 35 people. To book a tee time or join a league call 978772-0072. You can also visit us on the web at ChipShotsPub.com. Chip Shots Grill and Sports Pub is located at 245 Ayer Rd. Littleton, MA 01460.
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Big Sticks Big Sticks Golf is a premier Indoor practice, training and instructional facility offering something for every golfer. Big Sticks features an Aboutgolf simulator, ASTAR video, aG studio, a SwingModel bay and a Vector launch monitor. Terry Felty, the Director of Instruction is a Top 25 Instructor and can take your game to the next level this indoor golf season. To schedule a lesson or tee time call us at 781.229.2269. For more info or to purchase a lesson visit bigsticksgolf.com. BSG is located at 26 Ray Ave Burlington, MA 01803.
Groton Indoor Golf Groton Indoor Golf offers two Dead Solid Golf Simulators with 32 courses to choose from for public play, leagues or tournaments with multi-play discounts available. You can also take a lesson from PGA Professional, Rod Van Guilder featuring video analysis and club fitting software. We also offer food, a full bar and TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to watch the games. To book a tee time, lesson or league call 9784482564. For rates and more info visit grotoncountryclub.com. We are located at 94 Lovers Lane Groton, MA 01450.
Western Mass Family Golf Western Mass Family Golf is the areas favorite place to Play, Practice and Learn year round. We presently offer public play and leagues on our aboutGolf Simulator with special fall rates starting at $24.00/hr. Lessons are available from our PGA Pro, Jim McDonald and our outdoor range bays are fully heated so you can practice outside when weather permits all winter long. We also have food and refreshments as well. To schedule a tee time or lesson call 413-586-2311 or visit us on the web at WMassFamilyGolf.com. We are located next to Lowes at 294 Russell St. Hadley, MA 01035.
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FitGolf Performance Center in Wilmington, MA
by Bob DiCesare
Sometimes a visit to the doctor’s office is just not enough, and a meeting with a specialist is the cure for what ails you. A similar analogy applies to golfers, too. There are workout facilities, and then there are golf-specific training centers. FitGolf Performance Center in Wilmington, MA is one such place for the serious-minded golfer. It offers a comprehensive set of training and assessment tools to help you play more consistent golf with fewer aches and pains. FitGolf is Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified and its modus operandi is discovering how each person’s body affects his or her swing. Its training approach combines hands-on body work and customized golf-specific exercises to each unique golfer. The Wilmington location is the only one in the Bay State, along with two other centers in Connecticut, to have a presence in New England. At the forefront of it all on the North Shore is Somerville native David DuPriest. A golfer since he was a youngster, DuPriest earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology from UMass-Lowell and worked in physical therapy and as a personal trainer before coming to FitGolf. “FitGolf takes the game of golf and combines it with all the elements of my professional and personal life,” said DuPriest. FitGolf features the latest in technology and machinery, including K-Vest 3-D motion swing analy-
sis, Dynamic weight balance system, Cybex power rack, Keiser multi-purpose trainer, X-iser mini-step apparatus, treadmill, hydro rower, and two hitting bays with net returns. FitGolf also has a shower room and an evaluation room (including a line of insole fittings). But before anyone touches a machine, each prospective member must undergo a 2-to-2 ½ hour interview process, including a physical evaluation, before beginning a regiment. DuPriest’s regiment is based on the “3 R” training approach: Release the area to improve flexibility, re-educate the area to improve stability for a more consistent golf swing, and rebuild the area to add strength, speed, and power to your swing. Clients are also given a personalized workout manual for at-home exercises. “Breaking things down, I work with the golfer from the inside-out,” said DuPriest, who has also completed an internship in cardiac rehabilitation with the Leahy Clinic. “I’m focused on the physical side of things, looking at each golfer’s physical limitations, and trying to overcome them or stabilize them.” While still working in physical therapy and as a personal trainer, DuPriest remembers a late night in 2008 watching the Golf Channel when a TPI segment caught his eye. He took a gamble and flew to Texas to sign up for Level 1 training and was shocked by the experience. “It blew me away,” he said. “They not only talked,
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but demonstrated and proved what they were saying with instant results. They backed up everything with data.” DuPriest went on to complete Level 2 and Level 3 certification and started a winter conditioning program at Winchester Country Club in 2009, while also looking to open his own facility with investors in 2010. Instead, FitGolf found him. DuPriest traveled to Philadelphia for a presentation and came away impressed with the company’s approach to golf fitness. He became a franchisee in January and has been open for business since June. Based on marketing research, FitGolf’s target audience are males between the ages of 40-70 who make a six-figure income. However, the door is open to any
golfer looking to improve their golf game through personalized physical conditioning. “The groundwork has been laying the foundation for the off-season,” said DuPriest. “Yet at the same time, FitGolf is also for golfers who will be playing golf in warm weather locations this winter, who want to maintain or improve their golf shape.” For more information, visit www.northshore.fitgolf.com, or contact David DuPriest at ddupriest@ fitgolf.com or 978-447-5328. Bob DiCesare is the golf writer for The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA and The Enterprise in Brockton, MA, both Gatehouse Media newspapers. He is also a frequent contributer to NE Golf Monthly
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Ross’ Rulings
by Jack Ross
Fall and Winter Rules
As we head into the fall and winter golf seasons, it’s a good time to take a look at seasonal rules. This is a topic of some confusion. Let’s say you’re playing in October and your ball disappears into a heavy accumulation of leaves on the fairway or in the rough, and you are unable to find it. If the course has established a local rule treating accumulations of leaves as ground under repair, you are entitled to drop a ball without penalty within one club-length of the nearest point of relief. A rules decision advises that such local rules should be restricted to holes at which leaf trouble occurs. Keep in mind that, in order to take such relief, it must be “known or virtually certain” that your ball was lost in the leaves. If a bunker is covered by leaves, you are permitted to remove enough leaves to identify your ball, but (as Carl Pettersson discovered at the PGA Championship) if you touch a leaf on your backswing you incur a 2-stroke penalty. However, courses may provide local rules treating accumulations of leaves in bunkers as ground under repair. Now let’s turn to the amorphous subject of “winter rules.” There are no provisions in the rules themselves concerning allowances for winter conditions. However, an appendix to the rules provides a model local rule in the case of conditions such as heavy snows, spring thaws, or prolonged rains that justify the use of “preferred lies” to promote fair play or help protect
the course. The model rule provides that a ball lying in a closely mown area (a fairway) through the green may be lifted, cleaned, and placed within a specified distance (six inches, a club-length). The player must mark the ball before lifting it. Frequently, courses place signs at the first tee stating that “winter rules” or “preferred lies” are in effect, without further guidance. Jesse Menachem, Director of Rules and Competition for the MGA, recommended that such local rules be spelled out on a current local rules sheet or golf shop board, to avoid confusion. Clubs might also use e-mails or newsletters to explain local rules. Autumn golfers often encounter dew and frost. Except on the teeing ground, a player incurs a 2-stroke penalty under Rule 13-2 if he removes dew or frost from an area immediately behind or to the side of the ball, or from the line of play or line of putt, if such removal would cause a potential advantage. If you’re a hardy winter golfer, you might encounter snow and ice on the course. Snow and ice may be treated as either loose impediments or casual water, at the option of the player. In the latter case, the ball must be dropped (or placed if on the putting green) within one club-length of the nearest point of relief. Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop and has officiated at state amateur competitions. He is also an avid winter golfer.
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Molori Unplugged by John Molori
Dave Goucher
When Dave Goucher was 13-years-old, he slid headfirst into the boards and fractured his neck while playing hockey. Years later, he was cut from the Boston University hockey team. Happily, Goucher’s hockey life eventually improved. The talented Boston Bruins’ play-by-play announcer on 98.5 The Sports Hub has intermingled hockey and golf since young adulthood. “I played hockey and tennis in high school, but my parents got me a set of golf clubs for Christmas when I was 18 and I was hooked,” says Goucher, a Pawtucket, RI native who now resides in Milton, MA. “Some of my friends had started playing, but none of us really had any money. We’d always walk because we couldn’t afford carts.” The son of working class parents, Goucher looked for affordable opportunities to get his golf fix, with some interesting hazards. “I played a lot at a par-3 course called Firefly in Seekonk,” says the 1993 BU graduate. “A car dealership bordered the left side of the 10th fairway. The dealer got tired of golf balls crashing into his lot so he put up a net. I also played at StoneE-Lea and Chemawa Golf Club in Attleboro. I think Chemawa had power lines or phone towers running through a couple of fairways. They were in-play, so you had to plan accordingly.” Goucher explains that ingenuity often led to greener golf pastures. “Every once in a while my friends and I would sneak into Pawtucket Country Club, but we’d only play the same four holes because we didn’t want to venture too close to the clubhouse. Years later, I was invited to play in a tournament there. It was the first time I got to see the rest of the golf course, but I knew those four holes like the back of my hand.” The 43-year-old Goucher has a real fondness for some classic northeast courses. “Hyannisport has incredible ocean views. I also like the Ocean Course at New Seabury. Wannamoisett in RI has just one par-4 on the course. It’s a great test. I like Warwick Country Club because it has some great views of Narragansett Bay. Salem Country Club, Granite Links, and Point Judith Country Club in Narragansett are also on my list.”
The man whose broadcasting career began in Wheeling, WV shares an anecdote from a golf experience outside of New England. “I was fortunate enough to play 36 at Pebble one day. It was just a phenomenal day. It took me a few holes to wrap my head around the fact that I was actually playing there. I’d seen the course my whole life on television, but even that doesn’t do it justice. I think holes 6 to 9 are the best stretch of holes I’ve ever seen.” Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Bubba Watson are among Goucher’s favorite current duffers, but ever the historian, he holds Payne Stewart, Bobby Jones, and Ben Hogan in high regard. “I’m in the camp that says Jack Nicklaus’s record of 18 majors is safe,” says Goucher, who counts Bobby Orr, Larry Bird, John Lennon, and JFK among his non-golf idols. “His 19 runner-up finishes in majors is even more impressive. Thirtyseven top twos, I don’t see that happening again.” Like many of his Boston media brethren, Goucher enjoys mixing golf with business and philanthropy. “Most of the golf I play is in charity tournaments,” he explains. “I always find it amazing that you can be paired up with total strangers and in five hours get to know them pretty well. We’re all in the same boat out there, some good, some bad, some in the woods, some down the middle.” An avid guitar player and unabashed Bruce Springsteen fan, Goucher is a worthy heir to the throne of great Bruins broadcasters. His style builds the drama of hockey and his knowledge is apparent. While hockey defines Goucher’s profession, golf has always been a bit more emotional. He relates, “I’m very competitive by nature and used to lose my temper out there when I was younger. That’s very rare now. I’m mostly out there to enjoy the day. A nice day on the golf course is tough to beat.” John Molori is the co-author of “The Cracker Jack Collection: Baseball’s Prized Players” to be released in the fall of 2013. Email John at MoloriMedia@aol.com.
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Team New England On The Tours How they did in 2012
The playoffs are over and the Ryder Cup will remain in Europe for two more years. The PGA Tour’s Fall Series under way, the Champions, LPGA and Web.Com Tours will end their seasons in the coming weeks while the Symetra Futures Tour season is over. The Team New England Update takes a look at how our players for TNE did this 2012 season through October 8th.
Team New England standout for 2012 is Keegan Bradley (VT)
PGA TOUR Keegan Bradley (VT) ended his 2nd year on the PGA TOUR earning $3,910,658 with a season scoring average of 70.33. Keegan missed only 4 cuts in 25 starts. His numbers include a win at the Bridgestone Invitational. Bradley finished the year ranked 15th in the world, up from his 29th ranking after his PGA Championship victory in 2011. Bradley’s 4 and 1 record in his first Ryder Cup appearance certainly made us all proud. J.J. Henry (CT) has made 18 of 28 cuts with a victory at the Reno-Tahoe Open, 1-3rd, 3 top 10 and 5 top 25 finishes with earnings of $1,297,802 and a scoring average of 71.06 for. While Henry did not advance past the Deutsche Bank Championship in the Playoffs, he is one of our steadiest players. Scott Stallings (MA) has made 10 cuts in 25 starts including his win at the True South Classic, 2 top 10 and 6 top 25 finishes with season earnings of $1,064,652 and a scoring average of 71.80. Well off his rookie year earnings in 2011 and a slightly elevated scoring average, Scott had a very good 2nd year out there and 2013 promises to be good for him. James Driscoll (MA) earned $664,788 making 13 cuts in 24 starts with 2 top 10 and 4 top 25 finishes. James’ final round scoring average, currently 72.15, is up over a 2011 final round average of 70.73. James’ talent is not in question. He only needs to shake off that bubble boy stigma that has haunted him. Brett Quigley (RI) has played in one regular tour event earning $31,858. Along with $75,000 Brett won playing in the CVS Charity Classic this year, his total earnings are $106,858. We sincerely hope to see Brett back in action in 2013 playing his way back to the PGA Tour. Patrick Sheehan (MA) has made 7 cuts in 18 starts on the PGA TOUR and 4 cuts in 7 starts on the Web.Com Tour. Playing both tours, Patrick’s combined earnings are $146,327 with a scoring average for both tours of 70.67. His career earnings are currently $4,123,592. . Tim Petrovic (MA) has struggled this year playing both the PGA and Web.Com tours earning a total of $118,862. Tim made 6 cuts in 14 starts with 1 top 25 finish on the PGA Tour and 1 cut in 7 starts on the Web.Com. His scoring average sits at 71.48. Tim’s career earnings are $11,163,571. Fran Quinn (MA) is another TNE player playing both the PGA and Web.Com tours. On the PGA Tour Quinn made 1 cut in 5 starts and 3 cuts in 10 starts on the Web.Com. Total earnings are $18,819 with a combined scoring average of 72.09.
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CHAMPIONS TOUR Brad Faxon (RI) playing his first full year on the Champions Tour has 20 starts with 23rd, 2 top 10 and 5 top 25 finishes. Brad’s earnings stand at $342,443 is slightly over his first 7 events as an over 50 player in 2011. His scoring average has increased slightly to 71.89 overall and 38th in putts per round. We are sure once the flat stick comes back, Brad will move up quickly on the Champions Tour. P.H. Horgan III (RI) has 15 starts with 5 top 25 finishes and earnings of $152,872 in his full year on the Champions Tour. Horgan’s scoring average up and stands at 72.04. We feel confident Horgan is on the road to being a steady player on the Champions Tour. His competitive career earnings on all tours is currently $1,164,610. Dana Quigley (MA) has 12 starts this season earning $53,313. e bigger picture for the Ironman is his continued play on the Champions Tour while keeping his faith in the recovery and improvement of son Devon who suffered a traumatic brain injury in December 2011. Allen Doyle (RI) has had 9 starts with 1 top 25 finish and earnings of $64,093 in 2012. He did not start a competitive career until age 45 in 1995 with all but 4 years spent on the Champions Tour. Allen’s career Champions Tour earnings for the Woonsocket native is $13,789,217.
LPGA TOUR
Alison Walshe (MA) has made 11 cuts in 18 starts with 1 top 10 finish and earning $157,304. Walshe has had a good year with a scoring average that has improved to 72.64 as her third year on tour comes to a close. Allison’s career earnings stand at $284,461. Anna Grzebien (RI) has made 3 cuts in 11 starts earning $23,341 with a scoring average of 74.56. It has been a frustrating year for a player who qualified for the tour in her first attempt in 2008. With career earnings of $266,678 we are confident Anna will be back strong in 2013.
#TeamNewEngland
WEB.COM TOUR Brad Adamonis (RI) has made 14 cuts in 23 starts with 3 top 25 finishes and a scoring average of 70.84. Brads earnings are $46,963 as the Web.Com Tour winds down for 2012. Adamonis’ patience and resolve is the key as he continues his quest to return to the form we are all used to seeing. Trevor Murphy (VT) has made 2 cuts in his 4 starts with 1 top 10 finish this year with earnings of $28,309 and an excellent four event scoring average of 69.10. We certainly hope to see more of Trevor in 2013. Jim Renner (MA) has made only 8 cuts in 21 starts this year with 1-3rd, 2 top 10 and 4 top 25 finishes earning $96,350. Jim’s scoring average is 70.32. Renner is a perfect example of dedication and we have no doubt he will be back on the PGA TOUR soon. Rob Oppenheim (MA) has made 12 cuts in 23 starts with 4 top 10 and 6 top 25 finishes on the Web.Com. Earnings of $122,913 puts Rob in 34th position with a real shot at cracking the top 25 on the money list hence earn his PGA TOUR card for 2013. Currently Rob’s scoring average is currently 70.01. Justin Peters (MA) has started in just 2 events making 1 cut and 1 top 25 finish earning $7,111. Justin’s scoring average is 70.67. We hope Justin will be ready to go in 2013 on the Web.Com. Jeff Curl (CT) made 9 cuts in 18 starts with 1 top 10 and 2 top 25 finishes and earnings of $45,733. Jeff’s scoring average is 70.38 and is down dramatically over 2011 leading TNE to have high hopes for Jeff in 2013.
Geoff Sisk (MA) has not competed on the Web.Com in 2012
LPGA SYMATRA FUTURES TOUR Natalie Sheary (CT) ended the year in 47th position on the money list with total earnings of $11,198. Natalie suited up for 16 events making 10 cuts with 2 top 10 finishes. A scoring average of 73.88 indicates Sheary needs to work on her game this winter. Libby Smith (VT) has earned $2,194 as she’s made 6 cuts in 14 starts thus far in 2112. Libby’s scoring average of 76.53 shows great improvement over a year ago. With career earnings of $50,049 perhaps this 32 year old veteran has set the tone for a promising 2013 year. Briana Vega (MA) made 5 cuts in 14 starts this year earning $1,805. A scoring average of 75.33 is an indication Briana needs to work on her game this off season to return to her true potential. Molly Aronsson (VT) played in 15 events making the cut in just 4 earning $2,098 in 2012. In only her second year on tour, the 24 year old saw her scoring average jump to 76.15 indicating she has a lot of work to do this off season. Susan Choi (MA) missed the cut in all three events she suited up for in 2012. Susan’s scoring average for the events was 80.33
Chelsea Curtis (MA) did not compete in the 2012 season. With earnings of $31,135 in her first two years on the Futures, we hope to see Chelsea back in her talented form in 2013.
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Kay’s Korner
Rhode Island Trifecta Blanchard, Leopold and Valois by Emily Kay
Bobby Leopold
For such a tiny place, Rhode Island has produced its share of championship golf. Brad Faxon and Billy Andrade have made their marks nationally year after year. This season, three players -- Charlie Blanchard, Brad Valois, and Bobby Leopold -- put their indelible stamps on the smallest state in the union with stellar play in top amateur competition across the nation. For a brief moment in September at the U.S. MidAmateur, Blanchard, a 47-year-old grizzled vet, and Valois, 22 years Blanchard’s junior, put on their own version of the “Tiger Woods-Rory McIlroy Show.” The good friends, who are among Rhody’s best amateurs, found themselves facing each other in the Round of 32 in the tournament at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Ill. The two southpaws -- Blanchard a member of Wannamoisett CC and Valois playing out of Metacomet CC -- took their back-and-forth match to the 18th hole. Blanchard finally prevailed, 2-up, thanks to a birdie at the last, and moved on to the afternoon’s Round of 16. Unlike their professional counterparts, Woods and McIlroy, who were quite chatty in the early stages
of their blossoming friendship and rivalry, the R.I. golfers have been dueling for years and went about their Mid-Am business with minimal badinage. “Neither of us played very well that day,” Valois told us recently. “A lot of times we were on different sides of the course, and in a situation like that, you’re not really that talkative.” The match went back and forth all morning until Blanchard chipped from the rough over the green to three feet. Valois conceded his opponent’s birdie -- and the match -- after he missed his own six-foot birdie putt. “We know each other’s games very well. We’ve played a lot of golf together and have been big rivals now for a number of years,” Valois said. “Playing together in a national tournament against each other just added a different level of competitiveness to it.” The win was at least a small measure of revenge for Blanchard, who has lost twice to Valois in the Rhode Island Amateur. “He says he can’t beat me in Rhode Island but he has no problem beating me in the nationals,” Valois said. The two buddies had lunch together after their match
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Brad Valois
Charlie Blanchard
and roomed together in the recent USGA State Team Championship at Galloway (N.J.) National Golf Club. With Bobby Leopold as the third member of their three-player squad, Team Rhode Island finished tied for 17th -- not quite what the guys expected. “We thought, going into the tournament, we were going to have a very good week, with Rhode Island finishing in fourth place four years ago and second place two years ago,” Valois said. “With the state of our games this year we thought we were going to have a good chance to bring this one home, but unfortunately all three of us didn’t do so well.” Leopold, a Ledgemont CC member who won two matches at the USGA Amateur Championship and finished tied for 22nd at the Northeast Amateur, concurred. “Everyone was playing well going into the tournament, but it didn’t work out the way we wanted it,” said Leopold, who was born in the U.S., spent his youth in England, and arrived in Rhode Island in 2009. The 27-year-old, who made it to the Amateur
Championship’s Sweet 16 two years running, each time as the oldest player to advance that far, may not have enjoyed the outcome of his state team competition, but he was pleased with the way this year’s Ryder Cup matches turned out. “Growing up around the Ryder Cup, I support the Europeans in that tourney,” said Leopold, who would compete for the Americans were he to qualify for the amateur version of the contest, the Walker Cup. The biennial event ended with the Euros rebounding from the same deficit the Americans faced before they staged their remarkable comeback at Brookline 13 years ago. To Leopold, the competition was as good as it gets for golf fans. “[The Ryder Cup] was some of the best golf I’ve ever seen,” he said. “It was a treat for either side -expect for the American meltdown.” Emily Kay is a regular contributor to New England Golf Monthly. You may follow Kay on Twitter @golfexaminer
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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News - MGA Team Massachusetts Celebrates Its Record 9th Straight Tri-State Matches Title; Bay State Squad Posts 67.5 Points at Old Sandwich Golf Club
Fueled by a strong singles matches performance on Friday, the 12-person team from Massachusetts collected a record ninth straight Tri-State Matches title at Old Sandwich Golf Club. The Bay State squad posted 42 points on Friday to finish with a total of 67.5 points which was 9.5 points ahead of Rhode Island (58). Connecticut finished in
third with 36.5 points. In its 79-year history, no other team has been able to claim that many titles in a row. In fact, Team Massachusetts broke the previous record of eight straight titles (set by Massachusetts) last year. Massachusetts has now won a total of 30 Tri-State Matches titles since its debut in 1928.
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Golf Course Superintendents Annual Assistant Appreciation Day
The Sixth Annual Assistant Superintendents Appreciation Day will be held at the Milton-Hoosic Club, Thursday, November 1, 2012. All Assistant Superintendents are encouraged to come to the meeting, play golf, and get to know others in the profession. Hosts will be Jeff Urquhart, Superintendent and Kristopher Armando, Assistant Superintendent. Contact Don Hearn, CGCS, Association Manager 774-430-9040 donhearn@gcsane.org
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NEGM Player of the Year - Keegan Bradley
The editorial staff at New England Golf Monthly has once again chosen Keegan Bradley as the Team New England Player of the Year for the 2012 season. The 2011 PGA Rookie of the Year once again posted a banner season with his 3rd PGA Tour victory at The World Golf Championships Bridgestone Invitational and appearances at all the majors including a 3rd place finish in defense of his 2011 PGA Championship at Kiawah Island. Keegan was also one of 4 rookies on this years Ryder Cup Team at Medinah this year. His season started of with 10 straight top 25 finishes and a second place finish at The Northern Trust Open. He made an incredible 21 of 25 cuts on the season with 14 top 25 finishes brining his record pace on the tour for a player in the last 10 years to 26 top 25â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in just 2 years. Keegan moved to 14th in the World Golf Ranking and finished 8th in FedEx Cup points and 10th on the money list for the season. Keegan earned almost 4 million dollars in 2012 growing his career PGA winnings to $7,669,258. More than anything for all of us in New England Keegan brings a level of excitement to the game for all of us following golf at home here in New England that
just is magical. His passion and enthusiasm for the game is unmatched by any player on the tour. We are all very proud to have such a tremendous talent and outstanding young person on the golf world stage representing New England. Congratulations Keegan on another great year and we all canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait until next year.
Follow him on Twitter @Keegan_Bradley Use hash tag #TeamNewEngland
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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News Get Inside the Ropes at the 2013 U.S. Amateur Championship; Volunteer for the USGA Championship Proper at The Country Club Norton, MA - Golfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past and future will come together in less than a year, August 12 - 18, 2013 when the 113th U.S. Amateur Championship is contested at The Country Club and companion course, Charles River Country Club. Volunteer Registration is now open for members of the MGA. Register now and secure your preferred volunteer position for the 2013 U.S. Amateur Championship! Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and should be available to perform a minimum of four shifts, depending on their selected position. Volunteers will be needed August 8 - 18 for a variety of duties If you have any questions, please contact Jackie Singleton at JSingleton@TCclub.org or 617-456-3817.
Don Lyons Named the Junior Golf Leader of the Year by the NEPGA; Other Bay State Professionals Will Also Be Honored By the NEPGA Norton, MA - For years, The First Tee of Massachusetts has been able to provide its participants with quality learning opportunities from some of the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructors around. This is no such exception at Reedy Meadow Golf Course where one of its own is being honored for his commitment to growing the game. Donnie Lyons, head golf professional at Reedy Meadow Golf Course and lead instructor for The First Tee of Massachusetts at that site, will be honored by the New England PGA with its Junior Golf Leader of the Year Award later this month.
Don Lyons (third from left) celebrates with two college scholarship recipients.
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What’s News MGA Member Club Granite Links Golf Club Honored By the American Society of Golf Course Architects Design Excellence Recognition
Norton, MA - One MGA Member Club - Granite Links Golf Club - was recently honored by the inaugural American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) Design Excellence Recognition Program. Projects from six courses across the United States were cited for their work with ASGCA members in addressing unique design challenges. The project at Granite Links Golf Club involved
taking 10 million cubic yards from the famous “Big Dig” site and using the material to close two landfills and build 27-holes of golf with incredible views of the Boston skyline, harbor and Blue Hills. It also reduced the excavation disposal budget for the Boston Central Artery project by $100 million. Only six courses from across the country were recognized.
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What’s News Pam Kuong Massachusetts Women’s Golf Association Player of the Year The Women’s Golf Association of Massachusetts honors Pamela Kuong as the 2012 Anne Marie Tobin Player of the Year. Pam began her season by capturing the Edith Noblit Baker at Woods Hole Golf Club in an exciting one hole play-off over Tracy Martin. Pam went on to capture the New England Senior Amateur and was third at the New England Amateur at Natanis Golf Course in Maine. Additionally, she placed second in the WGAM’s Keyes Cup at Marshfield Country Club. However, Pam is most proud of her accomplishments at the national level. She was the medalist at both the local USGA Mid-Amateur and USGA Senior Amateur Qualifiers. Pam qualified for match play in both of these events. All of this was accomplished this in only her sixth year of competitive golf. Pam is quick to give thanks to the people who have contributed to her success in golf, especially to the WGAM who provides the players with the opportunity to compete in such great tournaments. She also credits
her colleague at Bank of America and caddie, Peter McCarthy, her golf coach, Skip Guss, and the membership at her home course, Charles River Country Club.
New England Club Managers Association Members Donate to the Greater Boston Food Bank on November 8th 2012 Portsmouth, RI - New England Club Managers Association Members donated canned and non-perishable food items to The Greater Boston Food Bank at its annual fall workshop on Thursday at the The Carnegie Abbey Club in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The New England Club Managers Association is holding a food drive
from November 8, 2012 through December as part of its Clubs Collecting for Communities campaign. All of the food collected was donated to the Greater Boston Food Bank to benefit hungry families across eastern Massachusetts. The Association is proud to help those less fortunate in these difficult times. Our efforts make a difference in someone’s life today.
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What’s News The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund The 64th Annual Meeting was held on Monday, October 22, 2012 at Brae Burn Country Club. The beautiful fall day began with a small golf outing which was enjoyed by all. Immediately following golf was a cocktail reception, the Annual Meeting, and a delicious turkey sit down dinner.
Newly elected Ouimet President, Terry Kennedy (l), presents a plaque of appreciation to Past President, Dick Reilly (r).
The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund awarded its 2012 Ouimet Chair of the Year Award to William L. Healy, M.D. of Concord Country Club and Eastward Ho! Club. The presentation was made at The Fund’s 64th Annual Meeting at Brae Burn Country Club on October 22, 2012.
The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund’s Alumni Committee awarded its 2012 Denny Goodrich Ouimet Honorary Alumnus Award to Phil Psaros, head professional at Brae Burn County Club. Mr. Psaros has been a great friend to the Ouimet Fund, playing in the Ouimet Marathon for 11 years as both an assistant professional and now the head professional at Brae Burn. Over those years Brae Burn has always been among the top fund raising clubs in the Marathon. Mr. Psaros has also been a great supporter of caddies and the Brae Burn caddie program is one of the best in the area.
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Gorman vs. Geary by Tom Gorman and Tim Geary
by Tom Gorman
Are Golf Course Designers Ruining The Game for Amateurs?
No. Just when you thought about every conceivable reason why your game sucks, here’s another: golf course designers are making courses too tough. Complain all you want about courses being too long, but according to two respected retired players - Lee Trevino and Tony Jacklin - golf course architects over the past decade are ruining the game because the courses are too damn difficult. Both claim that old-fashioned shot-making has been taken out of the game because the newer designs and courses that have been tweaked all require having to hit the ball high and long and land it soft, a talent possessed by pros, not amateurs. There was a time when golf courses were designed for all levels of play, where you had choices such as run it up, knock it down, shape it or be creative in getting satisfactory results, also known as taking a long walk with the putter. Let’s tackle this debate point by point. First, Trevino and Jacklin are “has-beens” who played at a time of persimmon woods, dead golf balls and without titanium or square-grooved clubs. Second, over the past 10 years more golf courses have closed than opened and only a handful of courses have opened in New England, since the economy is in a recession, and we don’t have enough players. Third, the game’s popularity is being driven over a cliff by the USGA because they now want to ban the use of long putters. So much for growing the game? Golf course designers are not ruining the game, the USGA and Royal & Ancient are because they have way too many rules! My favorite New England courses are not too difficult, and seem to have a common bond. I love Brain Silvadesigned courses like Waverly Oaks (1998), Renaissance (2005), Olde Scotland Links (1997), Red Tail (2002) and The Captains (1985). Unlike Greg Norman-designed courses featuring kidney-shaped, doomed greens or the pathetic layouts by Arnold Palmer-designers, which always need tweaking and redesign by far more skilled architects
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after completion, my experiences on Silva courses are memorable, challenging and fun. I want to return, which is what designers want. While we are on the subject of favorites I also like Jack Nicklaus-designed courses such as Pinehills (2002), Ocean Edge (2007), Vermont National (1997) and many more in Myrtle Beach and Florida. Have you ever heard anyone bad-mouth the Rees Jones-designed course at Pinehills (2001)? There is nothing not to like about dramatic landscape changes, many natural hazards, bunkering galore around elevated greens at Pinehills, the most active public course in Massachusetts. Blackstone National (2000) is also a beautiful course by Jones, but unfortunately public players do not have access to two other gems - Nantucket (1998) or Golf Club of Cape Cod (2007). Tim Geary may argue that some course architects are mean, that you have to hit it high or die, that difficult courses cause longer rounds, more frustrated players and wear you out, but that is nonsense because you can always move up to the forward tees to shoot 95, or higher in Geary’s case. It’s a pipe dream to think you can play golf on any course in four hours, so don’t blame designers. The game is a copy-cat sport, if amateurs see the pros line up a putt from 360 degrees, then John Q. Public golfer is doing the same. I don’t know how they play golf in 3.5 hours in Ireland and Scotland and they walk, but in the States it takes 4.5 hours with carts. The intsy-bitsy piece of good news is that this season we have had spectacular weather, resulting in an increase in rounds played at public courses up 8% and at private courses up 4%. The guaranteed solution for amateurs to improve - get a lesson! Tom Gorman, a hack golfer and hack golf writer, has been trying out new tennis rackets since his 14-year relationship with his long putter may be over.
by Tim Geary
Are Golf Course Designers Ruining The Game for Amateurs?
Thanks to being a golf writer I have had ample opportunity to play some of the finest courses in this country. In my 40 years of playing the game I’ve had some fine rounds, have had years when I carried a handicap as low as four and have actually won some tournaments. Those days of being a respectable player are gone. I can’t beat Gorman now and he can’t drive a cart straight, much less a Titleist. Still, I know a good course when I see one. I’ve played Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, Olympic Club, Pinehurst No. 2, The Dunes Club in Myrtle Beach, Pleasant Valley, Wannamoisett, Newport and many other outstanding tracks. And I will say unequivocally that many of the modern designers have no concept of how to build a course that an average amateur can play with any degree of enjoyment. Lee Trevino has said many times that too many golf course architects are more concerned about building monuments to themselves than golf courses that will attract paying customers. Too many courses today are constructed in hopes that they will host the best players in the world one week out of 52. That’s wonderful for that one week, but what about the rest of the year when Tiger and the boys are someplace else? Now Gorman doesn’t agree with this premise, but why would he, considering the fact that he would probably record the same score at TPC Sawgrass as he would at the local miniature golf establishment? A ground ball is a ground ball, regardless of where you play. Many of the traditional courses are still lengthy, but not unplayable for the average player. The reason? Distance can be accommodated for with several sets of tees. Options are what designers such as Donald Ross, A.J. Tillinghast, Willie Park Jr., Alister Mackenzie and Arthur Hills built into their courses. Can’t hit the ball high and land it soft? That was okay, because these people gave
you the option of running the ball onto the green. Can’t do that on many of today’s modern designs. When the average to high handicapper comes faceto-face with firm, elevated greens that have more levels than a Manhattan townhouse, are surrounded by either wide lakes or seas of sand, it stops being recreation and turns into an obstacle course. People generally don’t like to fork over their hard earned cash to vacation at golf’s version of Parris Island. I’ve played the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, three times. It’s unplayable for an average player. It’s long, it’s arduous, it’s absolutely no fun. There are five other less famous courses on Kiawah that are joys on which to play. Pete Die is one of today’s more famous architects. He’s great for giving the PGA Tour a place to hold a tournament, great for creating a market for railroad ties. He’s no friend of four buddies going on holiday to whack it around for a week. When Jack Nicklaus first began designing he had some absolute disasters, but he learned. His courses are more in gear with the past, giving players a variety of ways to attack the holes. Jack was the absolute master at hitting high, long irons that settled softly onto hard greens and when he first began building courses he designed them for his game. He quickly realized you have to build courses that EVERYBODY can play. I’ve played some courses that have holes that require a 200 yard carry over a marsh from the member’s tees. That eliminates a lot of players. The tees on the other side of the marsh are so close to the green that it’s insulting. Golf is a difficult game but it doesn’t have to be impossible. It can still be challenging and yet enjoyable. You should be able to play a round without going through an entire dozen balls and having the ball retriever become the most important instrument in your bag. Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. He prefers to play on courses older than he.
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Specialâ&#x20AC;? Introductory Offer!! Enjoyed your recent golfing experience at Allendale CC? Then why not take advantage of this limited time special offer. Purchase 4 rounds at the reduced packaged rate of $200 ($50/round) and receive a 5th complimentary round. Additionally, should you wish to join for the 2012-14 golf season, we will deduct this $200 from your 2013-14 membership dues!! Your purchased rounds can be used during the 2012-13 season. This offer can make a unique gift item for that special golfer in your family!!
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Allendale Country Club 1047 Allen Street, North Dartmouth, MA 02747
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