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The prize will be announced December 12th on our website, social media pages and an announcement email that might just have a gift in it for everyone that entered. Brought to you by:
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October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 3
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From the Editor The Power of Golf: Making a Difference On Monday October 3rd I played in the Annual Jimmy Fund Golf Classic, which was held at The International Golf Club in Bolton, Ma. Each year the Jimmy Fund Golf program holds this tournament to thank all the people that in the last year that were part of this great cause to find a cure for cancer. Since 1983 The Jimmy Fund Golf Program has run golf tournaments throughout New England. This year the golf program has raised almost 6.5 Million dollars and held 150 golf tournaments. That’s right 150 golf tournaments! Since 1983 the Jimmy Fund Golf Program has raised more than 85 million dollars used for research and treatment of cancer at Danna Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Ma. The International Golf Club in Bolton, Ma one of New England’s finest golf clubs and resorts serves as the host facility each year for the event. It is also one of the Jimmy Fund Golf Presenting Sponsors and home each year to the “Tame The Tigers” golf tournament held each year by Jimmy Fund Classic Cohost John Dennis from WEEI Radio. The International who specializes in corporate hospitality and golf with 2 championship 18 hole courses is now also home to the TaylorMade Performance Lab one of only 7 U.S. Locations. It is one of the most comprehensive golf fitting systems in the world today. None of this would be at all possible without the sponsors, countless volunteers and tournament directors that work all year to make these events successful. If you do the simple math and calculate 144 players in a full tournament field and over 150 tournaments every year for nearly 30 years then it will not be long before the Jimmy Fund Golf Program will crest 1 million New Englanders who have given back and helped with this great cause. That my friends is the power of golf and a lot of very wonderful people making a difference.
CONTENTS
The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson
Good Looks on the Course
6 15
by Elle Brec
by Emily Kay
20
Couple of Travelers
22
Kay's Korner
by Alice and Danny Scott
by Jack Ross
24
Molori Unplugged
25
Ross's Rulings
by John Molori
Celebrity Golfer
27
by Leigh MacKay
Palopoli's Picks
32
Player’s Perspective
44
by Jeff Palopoli
by Ed Travers
NEPGA Profile
48
by Bob DiCesare
Sampson’s Spotlight
Team Up To Fight Cancer With A Jimmy Fund Golf Tournament
50
by Greg Sampson
Timothy R. Branco Tim@NEpubinc.com
New England Golf Monthly Supporter of The Jimmy Fund THE PREFERRED PUBLICATION OF THE NEPGA
New England Golf Monthly The New England Publishing Group, Inc.
4 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
P.O. Box 357 Swansea, MA 02777 800-736-9020
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by Katherine Dyson
The Perfect Life
Quail West
Perfect Winter Coming up Oranges Named "one of America's best master planned communities” the Villages of Citrus Hills in Hernando, Florida, has a whole lot going for it from its quiet, uncongested location in the central Gulf Coast north of Tampa to exquisite homes and amenities that can knock your socks off. Homes include condominiums, two and three bedroom single-family designer homes and detached villas in a variety of floor plans. Gated entrances and large lots typically a half to a full acre, enhance the private club ambiance. Citrus Hills has three golf courses: The Oaks, a 6,323 yard track over rolling terrain punctuated by towering live oaks; Skyview, their flagship course with elevations as high as 250 feet above sea level — a good choice for the better golfers; and The Meadows, relaxing and kind to beginners. The Citrus Hills Golf & Country Club and Skyview Clubhouses contain restaurants, lounges, pro shops and tennis while the Brentwood Swim & Fitness Center has an outdoor pool, fitness area, spa and saunas. There is also the BellaVita Spa & Fitness Complex, offering an extensive array of sports and fitness facilities as well as a fitness trail. citrushills.com
Citrus Hills
Home Suite Naples Naples on the southwestern Gulf coast has a huge number of gated golf communities for those who enjoy a thriving shopping, restaurant and cultural lifestyle with lots of buzz. Fifth Ave. South in Naples with trendy shops like Altered Elements and hidden-in-an-alley Brambles Tea Room & Gift Shop is minutes away from those who call Quail West home for the winter (or longer). Here there are no condos, just one-of-a-kind custom homes and La Caille single family villas starting at $1 million along with two highly rated golf courses by Arthur Hills: The Preserve and the Lakes Course. Residents can drive their own golf carts around the 1,800-acre complex, to the lagoon-style solarium pool, spa, golf course, clubhouse, tennis courts and restaurants. They also have private access to the beach. Sweet. Quailwest.com Also in Naples, Tiburon’s two championship courses by Greg Norman, Black and Gold, are centerpieces for WCI Communities’ upscale gated neighborhoods offering condos, villas and single family homes priced from the mid-$100,000s to about a million.
6 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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Tiburon residents have access to a 350-member private golf club and a 30,000 square foot Mediterranean-style clubhouse containing three dining rooms, private members’ rooms and pro shop. There is also shuttle service to the beach. Just because Gold is the venue for PGA Tour's Shark Shootout, doesn't mean it's the most difficult. Black tends to be tighter with more trees and forced carries over water while Gold's greens are slightly larger and feature more roll-up approaches making it easier for women with a good chipping game. Tiburon is also home to the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. The hotel’s “Golf FORE Two” package starts at $679 including two rounds of golf, cart and overnight accommodations. A "Hassle Free Package" gives you complimentary use of TaylorMade clubs, two sleeves of balls and a golf glove. Tiburon.com; wcicommunities.com RTJ Golf Trail, the Gold Standard for driving vacations Playing the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama could be the perfect golf winter high. After all, the 26 courses on 11 sites were purpose-built to make it easy for you to drive from north to south in Alabama, play designer courses and stay at fine lodgings with no more than about two hours between places. RTJ courses are generally considered excellent tests for better golfers requiring a lot of carries to elevated big undulating greens — not your classic bump and run greens. But each course has multiple tees making it playable for most. With the exception of Ross Bridge and Lakewood Golf Club where green fees run between $90 and $136 including a cart, green fees run from $45 to $64 without cart — a good deal considering the caliber of the tracks. There are eight highly rated hotels and resorts affiliated with the Trail such as the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa where balconies overlook the third longest golf course in the world at 8,191 yards. There is the restored historic Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa named on
the as one of the 500 “Top Hotels in the World” by Travel & Leisure. And on Mobile Bay, you’ll love the elegance of the gracious waterfront Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Point Clear close to Lakewood Golf Club’s Dogwood and Azalea courses on the RTJ Trail. Winter packages include Winter Magic Special for $150 giving you golf with a cart at Ross Bridge and Oxmoor and use of practice facilities. You can also book three days of unlimited golf for $135 with unlimited range balls (except at Lakewood and Ross Bridge). And if you buy a day at Cambrian Ridge, Highland Oaks or Silver Lakes, you get a day free. rtjgolf.com The Perfect Fall Getaway, Bermuda And here’s an idea: go where the action is to Bermuda. Check into the Fairmont Southhampton Princess Resort, a perfection in pink and white and take in the PGA Grand Slam, golf ’s shootout between the winners of the year’s four majors taking place this year October 18-19 at Port Royal Golf Course. Watch New England's own Keegan Bradley compete with fellow PGA players including Charl Schwartzel of South Africa, and Rory Mcllroy and Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones, Port Royal was recently renovated with the government pumping more than $14 million into the project. Under the direction of the Roger Rulewich Group, new bunkers and a pond were constructed, the course was lengthened to 6,842 yards, and greens were resurfaced with Tiff Eagle. The Princess, sitting high on a hill above the brilliant turquoise sea, has its own 9-hole gem just out the door. With elevated tees and several lakes, it is a fun course for all levels of play. Bring enough golf balls: a dozen can set you back $70. Also know dining out can easily run you $100 or more and there are no rental cars. Most travel via taxis, bus, ferries, mopeds, bicycles and motor scooters which have room to balance your bag. www.portroyalgolf.bm
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Spa La La Get pampered, steamed, massaged, wrapped, relaxed and smoothed at the waterfront Ritz-Carlton Spa in Naples. Treatments like the Bamboo Breeze Swedish Massage, the Gulf Stone Massage, Hawaiian-inspired Lomi Lomi which gently works your tired muscles or the Sea Side-by-Side indulgence for two provide the perfect escape from stress and travel. Muscles sore and tired? You gotta love the Ritz Spa. Their “Rejuvenate You” package starts at $499 per night for room, spa treatment, lunch for two and use of the driving range. Treat yourself to dinner at Lemonia, a Mediterranean Grill serving contemporary Italian Cuisine or dine al fresco at the Poolside Grill. A “Golf Fore Two” package at the Ritz-Carlton starts at $279 for room, two rounds of golf at Tiburon including golf cart, club storage and tax. Ritzcarlton.com The Perfect Fall Getaway: the Carolinas Nestled among the perky peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachians, Asheville, NC, is one of the country’s hippest cities. Many artists call it home, inspired by the region’s natural beauty. The energized downtown has sidewalk cafés, trolleys, galleries and a wonderful group of art deco buildings. It also has the Biltmore estate. Created in 1895 by George Vanderbilt, the 250-room Biltmore House resembles a French chateau. This 8,000-acre playground has plenty to discover. Tour the house, the gardens, the winery and the new Antler Hill Village. Go biking, take a carriage ride and try your hand at fly fishing or sporting clays. Take a river float trip, horseback ride or a Segway Tour. Hey, you can even enroll in the two-day Land Rover School. Dine in the Bistro on dishes prepared from fruits and vegetables grown on the estate's own farms and book a room in the elegant on-site hotel.
The Vanderbilt Package gives you three nights accommodations, valet parking, estate admission, tour of Biltmore House, breakfasts, dinner daily in the Dining Room or Bistro, and a grand royal tea. Do you deserve any less? biltmore.com. Another Ashville option: stay in the sprawling 510-room Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa with its craggy stone facade, world-class spa and golf course. Groveparkinn.com Golf is available nearby at the Grove Park Inn course and Mount Mitchell Golf Club, a player friendly par 72, with no blind shots and knock-out scenery. Perfect Touring Car for Snowbirds The Porsche Cayenne, a very classy station-wagonmeets-SUV is so good, some say it’s what has kept Porsche in business during these rocky economic times. Enjoy great performance, amazing road holding abilities, efficient use of space and comfortable sport seats front and back with lots of adjustment possibilities. Mileage? Like many SUVs, not so great. Sorry. The Cayenne Turbo is top-of-the-line model at about $107,000 while the Cayenne is $48,200. porsche.com Perfect sassy & flirty golf fashions No more boxy Bermudas, baggy shirts that make you look like you just escaped from the jungle or hanging shads. Shi-Golf apparel from designer Kelly Su is a young hip line of golf attire that gets the links look just right — the black argyle sweater with a v-neck and large pink or blue diamonds for example or the sassy wrap hooded dress with the flirty skirt. Bermudas are low waisted, clingy while the sleeveless v-neck shirt is trimmed at the bottom with a fun ruffle border. Fabrics are techy, breathable while the fit is tapered and sexy. Shi-Golf attire can smoothly go from green to cocktails. You may buy them Shi-golf if you don’t play the game. shi-golf.com
8 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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Perfect Sports Glam Timepiece The time is right. The Sport Class XL from Guess ($800) comes in a white ceramic case with rose and golf accents while inside the case is the way-cool watch you’ll want to wear everywhere. The band is white ceramic links — really more like a bracelet, the white dial is surrounded by mother of pearl, and the movement is typically precise because it is after all, Swiss. We’re talking elegance plus comfort. Guess.com A perfect light-weight stand women’s golf bag with kicks With names like Margaritaville, Muffy, Jungle Jane and Zsa Zsa Zebra, you’ve got to expect something wild and wonderful in the world of golf bag design. No doubt about it: if a golf bag could be called sexy, it’s the Zsa Zsa Zebra by Birdie Babe with a zebra print accented by solid bright lavender accents ($180). Birdie Babe bags are lightweight stand bags that fit well on a cart with the pockets facing the right direction. The price is good too at about $160-$189. Check their web site and you might get free shipping, free headcovers and a discount. birdiebabegolf.com
The Perfect Fall Drink with Alcohol: Pomegranate Martini 2 oz citrus vodka 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice 1/4 oz pomegranate juice 1 oz simple syrup or Cointreau Shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with thin slice of orange or lemon peel. The Perfect Fall Drink without Alcohol: Cider Spice Cocktail 3 tsp. grated orange peel 3 crushed cinnamon sticks 3 tsp. whole cloves 1 whole nutmeg crushed 3 cups unsweetened cider 6 cinnamon sticks and orange slices for garnish Tie orange peel, 3 crushed cinnamon sticks, cloves and nutmeg into a double thickness square of cheesecloth and tie with a heavy string. In a medium pan, simmer cider with spice bag for at least 20 minutes. Ladle into mugs and garnish each with a cinnamon stick and orange slice.
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12 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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Service + Experience = Sold October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 13
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He Said, She Said
by Jim Hammond and Pam Borgess
She Said Established in 1959, Chemawa Golf Course has grown from a small, nine hole course into the unique 18 hole layout that it is today. Located in N. Attleboro, MA (near the Emerald Square Mall), it has long been a favorite among female golfers. So what is it about this course that ladies like so much? Most noticeable is the exquisitely maintained, detailed grounds that create incredible ambience… gorgeous floral plantings, meandering brooks, water fountains, birdhouses on every fairway that denote the 150yardage marker. Add to that the friendly, welcoming staff, which enhances the comfortable, inviting feel that truly makes playing golf here a pleasant “walk in the park” experience. This player-friendly course measures a manageable 4,368 yards from the forward tees with a slope/rating of 64.6/109. Although short in distance, it’s not without its challenges. There are few surprises on the flat, compact, front nine. The tight, parallel fairways demand accuracy and alertness to errant shots of golfers on adjacent holes. Holes # 3-6 open up across the road, which make for a nice change of pace. The front nine consists of mostly par-4s, one par-5 (340 yards), and one par-3 (117 yards). The fun begins with the par-3 eleventh hole, a severe uphill blind tee shot to a pint-size green! This hole introduces you to the “upper level”…the more rolling, spacious, scenic back nine, featuring a greater variety of holes, more water hazards and doglegs to navigate, and varying elevation changes that will challenge your game. Most memorable is the beautiful but visually intimidating severe downhill 16th hole featuring a pint-size green guarded by bunkers and water in front and back. The culminating 18th hole, a par-5, is the longest and most challenging hole for ladies (400 yards). As it meanders downhill and left, beware of the hidden brook that intersects the fairway. Chemawa is a well-manicured, fun course to play. You’ll love the large, contoured, undulating greens which are receptive and roll true. As for the 19th hole, their clubhouse serves great food and outside dining with a great view. www.chemawagolf.com
CHEMAWA GOLF COURSE He Said Tucked away in the town of North Attleboro, is an oasis of tranquility far from the maddening shoppers that prowl the stores on nearby Route 1. Chemawa was originally a nine hole course but in recent years the Bourque family decided to expand to a full 18 holes. Chemawa is not a long course measuring only 5,285 yards from the blue tees. My average drive is about 210220 yards but on many holes I was able to get home with a short iron. But the slick greens are small and well guarded by bunkers and water hazards. The opening hole is a wide open 349 yard par 4 to a small green providing you with a chance to open up your round with a par. The course is very well maintained so if you keep the ball in the fairway it will sit up nicely so you can apply maximum spin on your approach shots. On the second hole the fairway is fairly tight but it is only 299 yards to the green so grab the big dog and let it fly. One of the most interesting holes on the front nine is the 312 yard par 4 sixth hole. It plays only 312 yards from the blue tee but the fairway is very narrow and it is out of bounds on the left. You can hit a middle iron and then hit a little-bump-and-run up the middle for a birdie attempt if you wish. But I took the driver and hit a hook that bounced off of the hill and came to rest 20 yards short of the green. Not the way I planed it but it sure was a lot of fun. The 9th , 13th and 16th are three of the prettiest par 3’s you will ever see. Water comes into play on all three but you still have a reasonable chance at bagging some birdies. When you are finished playing, grab a seat on the balcony that looks over the 10th tee and enjoy one of the best burgers in the area. Rates are very reasonable and the Bourque family knows how to make you feel welcome. For tee time and rates contact their web site at www.chemawagolf.com
14 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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2011 Solheim Cup Victory In A Thrilling Fashion
Finally, a day of celebration for the European team, winning The Solheim Cup after a stunning and dramatic match against the American Team at Killeen Castle in Ireland. Following rain delays and lightning threats Europe regained The Solheim Cup in thrilling fashion with the narrowest of 15-13 victories over the USA. It all came down to the final holes in the final matches and the Europeans pulled out their first victory since 2003. The weekend has also been a success for Abacus. The clothes were really put to the test in all weather conditions. “As content as the players were with the clothing during The Solheim Cup week Abacus has been a big part of the victory. Especially due to the hard weather conditions on the final day,� says Alison Nicholas, the Captain of the European team. The Solheim Cup is a biennial, trans-Atlantic team match-play competition featuring the best U.S.-born players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the best European members from the Ladies European Tour (LET). The U.S. Team leads the competition, 8-3, and has
never lost The Solheim Cup on home soil. In 2009, the Americans kept their untarnished home record intact at Rich Harvest Farms with a 16 to 12 final score against the Europeans. The 2011 Solheim Cup was played from 23-25 September at Killeen Castle, County Meath, Ireland. The Solheim Cup is named in honor of Karsten Solheim, founder of the Karsten Manufacturing Corperation, parent company for PING golf equipment. In 1990, the Solheim family in conjunction with the US and European ladies golf tours developed the concept that became The Solheim Cup. The event quickly established itself as the premier match play competition in women's professional golf. Beginning in 2003, Solheim Cup play has taken place in odd-numbered years to avoid conflict with the Ryder Cup, which switched to even-numbered years in 2002. Today, just like The Ryder Cup for men, being picked for your respective Solheim Cup team is the aspiration for every female professional golfer. www.solheimcup.com
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TEAM USA - ANTIGUA The Antigua Group is one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of genuine golf and sports apparel and wishes to extend its congratulations to the U.S. Solheim Cup Team on its performance in this past weekend's event, which saw Team USA give its European opponents all they could handle before finally falling short, 15-13. "Antigua is very proud to have been chosen to create the U.S.A. team uniforms for the 2011 Solheim Cup," said Ron McPherson, president and CEO for Antigua. "These wonderfully talented women were wonderful and gracious to work with, and they made us all proud, even though the results obviously weren't what they wanted." Antigua's senior designer Danielle Dellios worked closely with U.S. team captain Rosie Jones, and assistant captains Sherri Steinhauser and Juli Inkster, to
develop a beautiful collection of performance pieces that proudly portrayed the tradition of the American color palette as well as being tastefully embellished with stars and stripes befitting an American team's design. each day of play was addressed as you would your own wardrobe - paying attention to the details of coordinating tops to bottoms in both style detail, silhouette, and color selection, which even working with the obvious red, white and navy palette still offered it's challenges. Special emphasis was placed on keeping the pieces current - an axiom that follows with all of Antigua's product development. “Designing uniforms for multiple days and multiple rounds of competition with Ireland’s unique weather as an added variable has been a tremendous challenge”, said Danielle Dellios, Senior Designer at the Antigua Group. All pieces for both the practice rounds and the
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competition itself were custom created for the team uniforms. The tops are all made with Antigua's proprietary Desert Dry and Desert dry Xtra-Lite performance fabrics designed for performance enhancement in any climate. These shirts are available for purchase and will truly stand out from all the others in your closet with the satiny feel of Antigua’s proprietary material. The bottoms are made in a light-weight poly/spandex stretch satin twill- designed for fluid movement, but in not trading function for style they were designed with a femininely flattering waist and
hip, with tasteful pocket and trim details with a stylishly subtle leg flare. This same fabric is used in the design of the shorts and skorts but the weather was too cold. Antigua created outerwear pieces for the team. There were base layer options of both crew or mock neck made in Desert Dry Xtra-Lite, and extra soft, microfleeced back jersey you saw the team wearing based on personal preference and weather conditions of each day. A classically traditional sweater vest was created as an additional layering option and is made of supple viscose/nylon. Pullovers were created with soft and lightweight micro-fleeced back technical poly mid-weight jersey and a team jacket made in a lightweight poly/spandex 4 way stretch woven offering comfort, as well as both wind and moisture protection. Equally important to the incorporation of the technical functionality of these performance garments is that they never lose sight of critical style elements. "Taking on the challenge of creating team uniforms for 12 of the top U.S. women golfers - along with their caddies, additional Solheim staff, the captain and assistant captains - was both an exhilarating and a humbling experience," said Dellios. "To have been in the presence of these wonderfully talented women and to have them express their positive feedback, along with their genuine appreciation of our efforts, was overwhelming. It's been a great experience."
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TEAM USA - SUNICE Sunice, Canada's number 1 outerwear brand, wishes to extend its congratulations as well to the U.S. Solheim Cup Team on its performance during this past weekend's 15-13 defeat to its European counterpart. "Even though Team USA didn't come away with the victory, they still played outstanding golf this weekend, and we are proud to have supported their efforts," said Allan Fletcher, CEO of Sunice's parent company, Fletcher Leisure Group. Rosie Jones, the U.S. team captain, selected Sunice for its attention to styling and exceptional performance in a difficult wet climate. The players wore, as part of their exclusive uniform, multiple Sunice garments manufactured using only Gore-Tex速 fabrics to ensure ultimate performance and protection from the elements. Sunice named their ladies Ultimate jacket "the Rosie"
in honor of Jones, who, as leader of the U.S. Solheim Cup team and a champion in her own right, was exactly the kind of athlete after whom they had hoped to name the jacket. The players were warm and dry wearing at times Sunice garments. In honor of the Solheim Cup captain Sunice has named their ladies Ultimate jacket, "the Rosie." As leader of the U.S. Solheim Cup team and a champion in her own right, Rosie was exactly who they were looking for in naming the jacket.
18 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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EUROPEAN TEAM - ABACUS For the third time in a row, the Swedish golf-clothing brand Abacus was commissioned to dress the 2011 European Solheim Cup Team continuing the great successes from 2007 and 2009. Not only do they dress the players, they also dress their caddies, members of the board, the players’ guests and the team’s dignitaries from top to toe which has turned out to be a successful cooperation. “We are very pleased to get the enquiry to dress the team once again. We appreciate the collaboration with the players and the captains. It helps us to develop the Abacus Collection to the front edge for the best golfers″, says Sven-Olof Karlsson, MD Abacus Sportswear AB. Most important to Abacus is to see how pleased all the players were with their outfits and the good response Abacus got from even the American spectators. The 2011 European Solheim Cup Team Captain Al-
ison Nicholas and the vice captain Joanne Morley, visited Abacus in Dalby in June this year, and were delighted that Abacus would be designing their uniforms for 2011. The reason for the visit was to go over the experiences from previous years and to prepare for the new collection. “The Abacus clothing range is stylish, comfortable, and functional. The quality of the fabrics, the advanced technological materials and design gives us the confidence to perform in all weather conditions, ‘come rain or shine,” said Nicholas. Abacus manufactures functional clothing where design is combined with quality and function. Abacus is available in twenty countries, with very strong market positions in Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Germany and Canada. The goal is to continue developing Abacus into an international lifestyle brand that reaches beyond the world of golf. www.abacus-outdoor.com
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LPGA to Let Lexi Play in 2012 Commissioner Mike Whan made official what the golf world had known for weeks when he announced in September he had exempted 16by Emily Kay year-old Lexi Thompson from the age rule restricting membership to golfers who are at least 18. To keep next year’s rookie season intact, and given the few limited-field events remaining on this season’s calendar, Thompson, the star of last year’s U.S. Curtis Cup squad, deferred LPGA membership until 2012, After Thompson using a sponsor’s exemption to become the youngest LPGA winner at September’s Navistar LPGA Classic, membership was essentially a done deal. But, despite clamoring by Thompson fans impatient for the LPGA to admit her––complete with a “Let Lexi Play” Twitter campaign orchestrated by her sponsor, Cobra-Puma Golf––Whan had to receive Thompson’s petition seeking a waiver of the age limit before granting membership. Hours after Thompson submitted the paperwork, Whan rubber-stamped it. Thompson’s recent win at the Navistar LPGA Classic -
Women’s Golf
- as well as the way she comported herself after blowing a share of the lead in an April event -- convinced Whan that the teen prodigy was ready for professional golf and all its trappings. Indeed, the tougher decision was letting Thompson compete in Q-school, where she cruised to victory in the first stage and subsequently withdrew before the second. While Thompson’s star quality provides the tour with an obvious marketing opportunity, Whan sought to lower expectations of the talented teenager, whose manager said she would play in some 20 events next year. "I don't feel the need to put pressure on Lexi to win or to carry the tour," said Whan, who presided over a season with the fewest events in years. "If Lexi continues to win, it's going to be an exciting time for her, and an exciting time for us," he said. "But she doesn't have to carry any more weight than the weight of her bag." Emily Kay is a regular contributor to New England Golf Monthly. Check her out on the Waggle Room, Boston Golf Examiner, National Golf Examiner, and GottaGoGolf websites. You may also follow Kay on Twitter @golfexaminer.
New Englanders Shine in EWGA’s First Annual Team Match Play Event
by Trish Joyce Swimming pools may be closed, kids are back in school, and soon many will be replacing gripping golf clubs for rakes and shovels. Until then, the women of EWGA continue to golf in New England; enjoying league final events (Boston Chapter), a weekend in Vermont golf trip (Central CT Chapter), and competing in the EWGA Championship semi-final event for a win that will take them to the finals in Palm Desert, Calif. in October. Along with the fun and head-to-head play, EWGA is giving back. The Greater Springfield Chapter is having their “Fall Ball Event” for Rally for the Cure on September 18 at The Ranch Golf Course in Southwick, MA. The scramble event welcomes EWGA member and non-members alike for a 1:00 p.m. shotgun start followed by dinner and cash bar. $20 of each registration fee goes to Rally for the Cure.
October 23rd, the day following the 2011 EWGA Championship Finals in Palm Desert, CA, the EWGA Foundation is holding its 9th annual Charity Golf Tournament to benefit LPGA-USGA Girls Golf. Everyone is welcome to play at the beautiful Indian Wells Golf Resort, home to Golf Channel’s Big Break Season 15, to extend your golf season while supporting a great cause. Follow the links below for additional details, registration information and more. To learn more about EWGA’s New England Chapters, visit www.ewga.com and click on “locations” on the top tool bar. Event Registration Form Corporate Team / Tournament Sponsor Form Event Sponsorship Information
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OFFICIAL EYEWEAR OF NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY
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Couple of Travelers by Alice and Danny Scott
Upstate New York - The Golf Next Door New York connotes New York City to many, but there is a separate state of mind in Central New York (CNY). Bright green golf courses are easy on the green in your wallet and towering hillsides are painted like bowls of fruit loops in autumn. Fall is the perfect time to drive through the colorful mountains and valleys where acres of corn fields buffer the forests so you almost expect Shoeless Joe Jackson to walk right out of one and play ball. Savvy sailors can navigate the waterways around the state from the Atlantic Ocean, singing “Fifteen Miles on the Erie Canal”, or drive the scenic byway, route 20 and speed along the 90 thruway to date the “golf next door” in CNY. As the seasons turn, Turning Stone Golf Resort and Casino is the most comprehensive destination, featuring three championship courses, all hand manicured, and showcasing horticultural wizardry. Atunyote hosts the Notah Begay III tournament that includes Anika, Rickie, Tiger, and others. Shenandoah is a course for all players while Kaluhyat, with its 150 slope, is a true test of the best. Narrow fairways meander through thick forests, tall native grasses, and of course, water. Skana Spa offers the old world dignity of the Oneida Nation with upscale amenities. The impressive sports dome affords golfers the opportunity to hone their skills
even in winter months when groomers plow trails for snow sports and sleigh rides. Ski nearby or skate at Colgate University where Slap Shot was filmed with Paul Newman. Wrap your lips around The Incredible Hulk at the Blues Concept in Hamilton - the best sushi roll on the planet. New York is second only to California in wine production and farmers markets, so wineries, tastings and fresh produce are never far away. During the fall, apple orchards serve a gamut of goodies including hard cider and apple vodka. Among this intoxicating background are some of the finest golf courses at affordable rates. Barker Brook Golf Club in Oriskany Falls sits on a hilltop viewing wind turbines, providing the life of Riley – literally as Riley was a lost dog who made himself at home there and now owns the place with Mike and Sally. It’s a family affair with Mom planting flowers and Dad lending a hand. Marital team, Denise and Joe own Woodcrest Golf Club, outside the artsy village of Cazenovia with views of Oneida Lake. A few minutes away, Chittenango Falls are as tall as Niagara and almost as spectacular without the crowds. The new kid on the block is Timber Banks, aptly named as it is enveloped by timbers, bordering the banks of the Seneca River. Designer Jack Nicklaus is back to his tricks with greens that require
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coefficient equations for putt sinking strategy. His only course designed in upstate New York is a layout with all the trademarks of the Golden Bear. Cooperstown is loaded with museums and the baseball hall of fame along with the Otesaga Hotel. Rock on the veranda overlooking Glimmer Glass lake and the 18th green of the must play Leatherstocking Golf Course. Westward, Skaneateles hails the quintessential lake country club of movies where kids attend camp, lacing lanyards and learning to sail, just like the parents before them. It is a privileged and caring, tight community where one sweeping fairway view included the lake, a corn field and polo ponies exercising four by four on each side of the rider. Mirbeau Inn and Spa is the place to book there for a French splurge of pampering. Slip into their luxurious white robe, then the courtyard, transposing you into a Monet masterpiece of
water lilies. The spa’s warm circular foot pool is transcendent to the royal treatments in store. Cozy bedroom fireplaces continue the theme of warmth. For premium dining, dial the Sherwood Inn downtown, a stately hotel built in 1807, facing the lake. Entrees are amazingly prepared and delivered with impeccable service. Watch the water sports and sunset, hop a cruise ship, learn to paddleboard, sail or kayak. Just minutes away, Anyela’s Vineyards present breathtaking views, tours and tastings. Area public play highlights Highland Park Golf Club with a challenging back nine and Dutch Hollow with streams intertwining throughout. You might want to stay awhile to enjoy all the wine trails and golf that don’t fit on these pages. Golf, spa, wine, dine, boat, hike and return home both exhausted and exhilarated. When rediscovering America, don’t forget to love Central New York.
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Ross’ Rulings
Around the Green by Jack Ross
A multitude of rules come into play when on or in the vicinity of the green. Let’s take a look at some the most commonly recurring situations. Line of Putt. It is impermissible to straddle the line of putt, or place a foot on the line of putt (or an extension of the line of putt behind the ball) while putting. An exception applies if you’re attempting to avoid stepping on another player’s line of putt. Generally, you may not touch the line of putt, unless performing tasks such as removing loose impediments, lifting and replacing the ball, and repairing ball marks. Your caddie or partner may indicate the line of putt, provided that he does not (i) touch the green; (ii) place a mark on the green; or (iii) provide any assistance during the stroke. In addition, your caddie or partner may not stand on the extension of the line of putt behind the ball while you’re putting. Ball Marks/Loose Impediments. You may remove loose impediments (leaves, twigs, soil, sand), and repair ball marks (but not spike marks or other damage) on your line of putt, whether your ball is on or off the green. However, you may not brush away dew, frost, or casual water. (You are entitled to relief from casual water on your line of putt when your ball lies on the green.) Note for you hardy winter golfers: snow and ice may be treated as either casual water or loose impediments. Deflections. If your ball strikes or deflects off an-
other ball, you must play it as it lies, and the ball you struck must be replaced. If you played from the green, you incur a 2-stroke penalty. No penalty applies if you played from off the green, including the fringe. Movement of Ball on Green. Generally, you incur a 1-stroke penalty if you cause your ball at rest to move, and must replace the ball. However, no penalty applies if the movement is incidental to marking, lifting, and replacing your ball, moving loose impediments, repairing a ball mark, or measuring. If your ball moves after you have addressed it (taken your stance and grounded your putter) you are deemed to have caused the ball to move, even if the movement was caused by wind or gravity. (The USGA and R&A are reconsidering this rule.) Concession of Putts. A putt may never be conceded in stroke play. In match play, if a player concedes an opponent’s putt, his opponent is deemed to have holed out on with his next stroke. A concession may not be declined or withdrawn. So, if you concede a putt and your opponent proceeds to putt and misses, it has no effect. (In a four-ball match, a player may not putt out after a concession if it would assist his partner with a putt.) Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop and has officiated at state amateur competitions. Rules inquiries may be directed to rossgolf@charter.net
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Molori Unplugged by John Molori
Marshall law rules on the course Comcast SportsNet Celtics analyst Donny Marshall plays golf every day. He owns a golf course, and has competed in numerous Pro-Am tournaments with the likes of Brad Faxon, Jeff Sluman, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley and Donald Trump. Given this resume, you would think that the 39 year-old Detroit native is a golf lifer, but not true. “1997 was the first year I ever touched a club,” says Marshall, a former UConn hoops star (Class of 1995) who played six years in the NBA with Cleveland, New Jersey and Milwaukee. “I was with the Cavaliers, and was invited to play in celebrity a long drive competition at TPC River Highlands in Connecticut. “I had never played golf, so I called my closest friend in the world, Chuck Grodovich, who owned a couple of courses in the Hartford area. He asked me when the competition was. I told him, ‘Two hours.’ Chuck took me to the range and we hit balls for 90 minutes. My hands were so sore. He told me to keep my eye on the ball and swing hard. I still follow those lessons today.” With the likes of Greg Norman, John Daly and thousands of spectators watching, Marshall hit two excellent drives of 275 and 300 yards. He was hooked. “The late Bobby Phills was a mentor to me with the Cavaliers. Bobby told me that the most important thing in life is relationships, and that on the golf course, you meet people that you wouldn't meet any other place.” Along with Grodovich, Marshall now co-owns The University Club of Connecticut in North Windham. “It’s overwhelming sometimes, but it’s a lot of fun,” says Marshall. “Fifteen years after I graduated college, I'm finally using my Business Management degree.” An All-American soccer star in high school, Marshall did not start playing basketball until the 10th grade. Ever the late-bloomer, he attacked golf as he did hoops. “I just put my headphones on and practiced two to three hours a day. Still do. I take a ton of notes. It's just me, the golf ball and the course. I take pride in my game.” Marshall’s favorite courses bring him back to his roots
growing up in Seattle. He states, “I love The Home Course in DuPont, WA near Chambers Bay. My other favorite is Washington National. When I was playing in Cleveland, I really loved Firestone CC in Akron. Locally, I do like the Boston Golf Club. It's a pure course with no carts. You have to walk the course.” Golf can often make for interesting anecdotes. Marshall shares one such story. “I was playing in a Pro-Am at Mohegan Sun with Ahmad Rashad, Bill Murray and Charles Barkley. My mom was there with me. Later in the day, my mother came to me and said, ‘Who is William Murray? He gave me his number and said he would love to get together sometime. He was very nice.’ “Later that evening, I was sitting with all the guys, including Bill, and I said that my mom got asked out by some guy named William Murray. Does anyone know who that is? Caddyshack is my favorite movie, so it was great.” Marshall has talked shop on the course with luminaries of entertainment, business and sports, but his favorite playing partner is closer to home. “My 10-year-old daughter Savannah has started playing,” he relates. “She has an excellent swing and hits from the white tees. We’ll be driving around and see a course, and she'll ask if we can stop and play a couple holes. It’s awesome.” As for the ongoing NBA lockout, Marshall sees a December or January start date for the season, noting that star players such as Kobe Bryant and LeBron James need to get more involved. He relates, “During the 1998-99 lockout, Jordan was an established star. He didn't have to step up, but he did.” Each time Marshall steps up to the tee, a new learning experience begins. He states, “This game is day-to-day. It's an ongoing process. I remember an interview I saw with Tiger Woods. He said, ‘If I get to the range and I’m hitting fades, I’m going to play fades that day.’ I agree. You shouldn't challenge the golf gods.” John Molori is a columnist for numerous publications and websites. Email John at MoloriMedia@aol.com.
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Celebrity Golfer: Stan Abrams
by Leigh MacKay
“I have known Stan Abrams for years. He is a genuinely great guy, a real people person. He is so full of energy and always wants to be part of a projGleneagles seniors––Billy Casper, Bob Goalby, Doug Ford, Sam Snead, Gay ect that brings happiness Brewer, and Doug Sanders––foreground Stan Abrams to others.” Pat Bradley, LPGA Hall of Famer and NE icon, was delighted to know that Stan Abrams courses to design in Japan. Masters champion Bob Goalby said, “Stan was a straight shooter in all his was this month’s “Celebrity Golfer.” Providence born but Pawtucket bred, Stan Abrams dealings with Senior Tour players. Whatever he said attended Pawtucket West HS, where he was an all- he would do for us, he did, and he was always super state quarterback. After playing football and gradu- good to me.” Abrams has also left an indelible imprint on NE ating with honors at Harvard in 1964, Abrams sold golf with his efforts at the awardmutual funds and insurance for one winning Granite Links GC in MA. year to make money for law Located on the highest ground on school—“Most of my sales came on the Quincy/Milton line, the clubhouse the golf course.”—before entering and many of the 27 holes give spectacU of Pennsylvania and discovering ular views of the Boston skyline and that real estate transactions held a the Harbor Islands. The owners special appeal for him. needed Abrams’ legal expertise to write After clerking for a RI Supreme the land lease and then made him both Court justice and working at a a part of the development team and Providence law firm, he then joined the liaison of marketing. the Druker Company in 1972 and Abrams was instrumental in getlearned the real estate business through its many holdings in hotels, office buildings, ting BJ’s Wholesale Club and The Legends Tour to and shopping centers. All the while, Abrams was Granite Links so that NE golf fans could once again playing excellent competitive golf, winning the RI watch the LPGA greats. Jane Blalock, director of The Legends Tour and a native New Englander, said, amateur in 1972 and again in 1975. In 1982, just as the Senior PGA Tour was about to “Stan is one of the classiest people with whom I have take off, Abrams wrangled an audience with the pros ever been associated in the world of golf. His unwaof the Senior Tour policy board and convinced 15 of vering support of the LPGA Legends Tour has certhe 17 members that he would be their exclusive agent tainly had a positive impact on our success. He can and find them a home base for the Senior PGA Tour, always be counted on.” Stan Abrams’ life in golf will be formally acknowlwhere they could live, play and practice. Thus began a relationship for Abrams with many of the game’s for- edged in December with his induction into the mer greats who had, he said, been “put out to pasture.” Rhode Island Golf Association Hall of Fame. ExecAbrams represented these players and, through real es- utive Director Bob Ward said, “Stan merits this tate development, marketing, and personal appear- honor because of his playing credentials—including two state amateur titles—his accomplishments ances, provided mulligans for their careers. He became the manager and close friend of Sam within the golf industry, and his giving so much Snead, for example, and soon found Sam five golf back to the game he loves.”
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Top: Sam Snead, Jean Sarazen, Ben Hogan foreground Stan Abrams Right: Stan Abrams at Granite Links NEGM: How did you get your start in golf? SA: As a boy I played West Warwick GC and learned the game from my dad. Later I became a member of Metacomet and played with the many low-handicap players there. NEGM: What are your favorite golf courses? SA: Metacomet, The Country Club, and Granite Links. NEGM: Who would be in your Dream Foursome? SA: It would have to be a fivesome! I’d love to play with my dad, my son Jeffrey, Bobby Jones, and Keegan Bradley. NEGM: Of what golf achievements are you most proud? SA: Winning the two state amateurs. In 1972, I beat my idol and inspiration Ron Quinn in the finals at Agawam Hunt Club. Ron was a five-time winner, a member like me at West Warwick, and a wonderful person. In 1975, I won at Metacomet, my home course. NEGM: Another memorable golf moment? SA: Yes, I was 17 and had qualified for a tournament in Tucson. In the long drive contest, I hit one 303 yards to come in second, and I received my award personally from Bobby Jones. He was crippled and
in his wheel chair, but he delivered such a moving, motivational speech about his life in golf. I’ll never forget that night. NEGM: As a boy were you also a Red Sox fan? SA: Die hard! Still am! My father was a good friend of Hank Soar, the AL umpire, and we’d go to Fenway frequently during the Ted Williams era and after. Soar once said, “If Ted didn’t swing at the pitch, it was a ball.” One time Ted and Sam Snead were talking about the relative difficulties of their sports. Snead ended the discussion by saying, “But, Ted, in baseball you don’t have to play your foul balls.” NEGM: Speaking of Snead, give two examples of what you did for Sam and the other senior golfers you represented. SA: In 1983, a real estate developer wanted to create a 36-hole residential community in Delray Beach, FL, called Gleneagles. He was having trouble getting bank financing. I took Sam Snead and Billy Casper to the next bank meeting, and their charisma, together with my marketing ideas, got the developer his money. In return, Casper and Snead, along with Gay Brewer, Doug Ford, Bob Goalby, and Doug Sanders, all received homes, memberships, and financial perks.
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Shortly thereafter, also in Florida, I bought the bankrupt Lake Worth CC and marketed it as I had Gleneagles. Julius Boros, Ford, Goalby, and Bob Toski got in on the ground floor, and Ford liked the concept so much he later bought the club. NEGM: Another one? SA: In 1990, I retained Johnny Miller and Chi Chi Rodriguez to create a 27-hole golf course in Las Vegas called Badlands GC. However, I needed an additional $5 M to go with the $9 M I had already raised. I brought some investors to the golf course, and Chi Chi put on an incredible clinic, including hitting a moving tractor at 250 yards by using his driver! I had the rest of the money within a week. NEGM: What’s the most unusual deal that you brokered? SA: How about this one! In 1990, a Japanese firm wanted to design a course in Guam and wanted a way to attract worldwide attention. I suggested they get nine senior legends with each one endorsing two of the holes as if he had designed them. The Talafofo
GC was the result. The nine legends I recruited: the old reliables like Bob, Billy, Chi Chi, Doug, Sam; golf greats Gene Littler, Orville Moody, Gene Sarazen; and The Hawk himself, Ben Hogan. We all met at Ben’s Shady Oaks CC in Texas for discussion and photographs. What a group! NEGM: What was your reaction to Keegan Bradley’s PGA victory? SA: My first reaction was to call “Aunt Pat,” one of my all-time favorite people, which I did later. My second reaction was that I was witnessing “a back to the future” moment. I was watching the final round at Westchester CC with Bob Goalby, who had invited me for festivities surrounding the Constellation Energy Senior Players Championship that coming week. We were seated with Miller Barber, Al Besselink, Billy Casper, Jim Ferree, Jack Fleck, and Don January. Everyone was commenting on the clutch play of Keegan down the stretch. During the playoff, Bob said, almost in awe, “These kids are playing as great golf as Palmer and Nicklaus did in their day.”
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Stay & Play Boston
Situated on the historic waterfront, just minutes from the city’s finest shops, museums and attractions, guests will find a fresh approach to hospitality in the AAA Four Diamond, service fee inclusive, Seaport Hotel. Seaport’s richly appointed guest rooms boast magnificent views of Boston Harbor or the city skyline. The hotel’s distinctive amenities include allergyfriendly rooms, complimentary wireless access throughout the property and a service fee inclusive environment (no tipping). Located within walking distance of a number of Boston attractions including the Institute of Contemporary Art, the New England Aquarium and the Boston Children’s Museum, guests who prefer two wheels will enjoy complimentary bicycles to tour the neighborhood. Golfers appreciate the discounted greens fees and preferred tee times at Granite Links Golf Course, situated just minutes from the Seaport Hotel and with its stunning harbor and city views. Wave Health & Fitness is a complimentary, relaxing oasis for guests, complete with an indoor pool, group exercise classes and state-of-the-art cardio equipment.
Seaport caters to its youngest guests as well with complimentary DVD players and a variety of familyfriendly movies, a Lending Library with books for all ages to borrow, and a welcome toy for each child from Seaport’s toy chest. Guests who need to attend to business during their visit will appreciate the twenty-four-hour business center, complete with fax, color copier, complimentary E-guest computers with internet access and real-time flight status and boarding pass printing. A private boardroom for six is available to reserve for business meetings. Seaport is also one of the region’s greenest hotels, having recently added two bee hives and a new zero emissions, fully-electric water taxi to its award-winning environmental program, Seaport Saves. Dedicated to increasing sustainability and conservation throughout all aspects of the organizations, other highlights include a charging station for hybrid or electric cars, the city’s first in-room recycling program, and a completely smoke-free environment. For more information about the Seaport Hotel, please visit seaportboston.com or call 617.385.4000
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The Best of Town & Country. The Stay & Play Golf Offer from the Seaport Hotel. Enjoy a great golf getaway in the heart of Boston at the Seaport Hotel. Located on Boston’s historic waterfront. The Seaport Hotel is a true urban oasis with dazzling city and harbor views and easy access to all of Boston’s major attractions. And now you can enjoy preferred tee times and green fees to play one of New England’s best golf courses, Granite Links – just 20 minutes from the Seaport Hotel. For reservations call 1-877-SEAPORT.
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Palopoli’s Picks
Fantasy Golf 2011 Wrap Up
by Jeff Palopoli
Like Us on Facebook For More Details on Start Dates & Prizes Just like the FedEx Cup Playoffs, Yahoo!’s Fantasy Golf 2011 season came to an end at the TOUR Championship. The finale didn’t disappoint either with two of golf’s brightest young stars, Hunter Mahan and Bill Haas dueling it out in an exciting three hole playoff. Haas hit what is likely the most memorable shot of the year on the second playoff hole, hitting his third shot from the water surrounding the green and sticking it to within three feet to extend the playoff another hole and ultimately winning the TOUR Championship, as well as the FedEx Cup to go along with it, on the next hole with a clutch par. Throughout the season I found that there were more surprises from players you wouldn’t think would perform as well as they did. Some marquee names like Steve Stricker always proved to be a solid selection on my roster. But players by the likes of Phil Mickelson, Jim Furyk, and Ernie Els didn’t produce the points I thought they would at all this season. Instead we saw performances by Keegan Bradley, Charl Schwartzel, David Toms, and Webb Simpson, to just name a few, that seemed to gather consistent high point totals week in and week out. This past season I belonged to two different Fantasy Golf leagues and finished in 2nd place in one and 4th in another. I had the lead going in to the TOUR Championship and ended up squandering it, losing by 10 points to someone that had Bill Haas on their roster! Overall I selected 11 winners, along with many
other runner-ups and top 5’s, and ended up in the 98th percentile among all Yahoo! participants. Even though the FedEx Cup and Fantasy Golf has come to an end for the season, there’s still plenty of exciting golf to be played during the PGA Tour’s Fall Series. It got kicked off at the Justin Timberlake Shriner’s Hospital Open out in Las Vegas the first weekend in October. Last year Jonathan Byrd won the tournament in a playoff with a hole-in-one as dusk fell. Players on the money list bubble need to make up some ground in these last few tournaments in order to keep their playing privileges for the 2012 season, and that’s always fun to watch that drama unfold during the last couple tournaments of the season. The PGA Tour also adds some excitement and tries to keep the fans interested throughout these last few tournaments with the $1 million dollar Kodak Challenge coming to a culmination on the 17th hole of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic. No doubt, there will be plenty of reasons to tune in during the month of October. Next season New England Golf Monthly will be running our own Fantasy Golf league through Yahoo! complete with seasonal segment prizes and overall finisher prizes. Keep an eye out for details in the December issue, as well as www.mynegm.com. You can follow Jeff’s weekly Fantasy Golf picks online each week at www.mynegm.com. Jeff also writes on his blog at www.goodwalkgolf.com and can be reached at jeff@goodwalkgolf.com
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Simulate Your Game by NEGM Staff
Fall is here and it is now time to plan the next half of your season. New England has reached what we like to call the Indoor Golf Season. We can all play this great game on some of the best courses in the world, practice on the range, take a series of video golf lessons, work out with a Certified Golf Fitness professional and get properly fit for brand new 2012 equipment all in the same indoor facility. The best part about indoor golf facilities is that leagues and tournaments are very popular so we can still enjoy a sandwich and a cold one after our round. Finally, indoor golf simulators make for a wonderful family or couples day, as the pressures of the rules and pace of play are not as important.
How many of you have ever done any of these standard outdoor golf tasks on an indoor golf simulator or at an indoor facility? How many of you can name an indoor golf facility that your foursome, group or league has frequented during the Indoor Golf Season? New England Golf Monthly is here this Indoor Golf Season to provide you with technology from aboutGolf PGA Tour Simulators, profiles of almost all the indoor golf facilities in New England and even some suggested training aids to use virtually anywhere indoors. Don't miss next issues, My Golf Space: Turn A Space in Your Home, OďŹƒce or Golf Facility into an Indoor Golf Haven!
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When it comes to golf simulators, the saying fits: “You’ve come a long way, baby.” Golf simulators have now reached a status as not only an effective means for both enjoying and improving your game, but arguably the most effective means. Homeowners are increasingly installing golf simulators as part of game rooms and home theaters, simulators have become a must for golf retailers and their existence is accelerating the presence of golf academies and has created an entirely new business sector known as indoor golf centers. As well, golf courses are realizing the opportunity for generating revenue through the use of simulators in the off-season and evenings. Even World No. 1 Luke Donald owns a simulator. One of the companies leading the growth of the simulator industry and pushing innovation of golf performance products is aboutGolf, based in Maumee, Ohio. You see their PGA TOUR Simulator on Golf Channel programming, including The Golf Fix with Michael Breed. aboutGolf offers scalable golf solutions to meet many needs through a variety of product offerings. From their full-scale simulators, with both singlescreen and three-screen options, to performance hitting bays and standalone or integrated teaching
modules, aboutGolf has a package for seemingly endless applications of immersive play experiences. “We are dedicated to developing and applying innovative, state-of-the-art technology to enhance and improve the game for golfers at every level,” says Bob Ryan, Chairman and CEO of aboutGolf. Perhaps its most well-known product is aboutGolf’s SimSurround, a three-screen simulator that fills nearly all your peripheral vision with course environments. Add in aboutGolf ’s more than 50 courses, including the exclusive TPC Collection, as well as options for voice activation, 3D and sound enhancements, including announcer modes and crowd reactions – and you’ve got some very jealous buddies. All of aboutGolf ’s products are equipped with its proprietary 3Trak technology. 3Trak is the 3D, highspeed, machine vision system that provides ball and club data. It is this technology and aboutGolf ’s dedication to new product advancement that has led to relationships with PGA TOUR, Golf Channel, European Tour and World No. 1 Luke Donald. “Simulators offer so many benefits to the game of golf,” says aboutGolf President Chuck Faust. “They break down barriers to the game. Such as time, weather, access and intimidation, specifically in the
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case of women and beginners.” And they are gaining traction. In Asia, more than 15 million rounds of “screen golf ” are played each year. The access to and cost of golf in many parts of Asia prevent a significant portion of the golfing population from engaging with the game in its traditional fashion. And indoor golf in the United States is growing as well. But, with the increased focus on custom fit equipment, simulators are also popping up in golf retail shops and teaching facilities across the globe. Randy Henry, founder of Henry-Griffitts, and arguably the father of custom club fitting, says while he initially thought the idea of fitting a golf club indoors was ridiculous, he now believes there is no better environment for fitting and teaching. He has an aboutGolf SimSurround at the Randy Henry Dynamic Swing Center, his teaching facility in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The future for golf simulators and related golf performance technology is ripe with potential, thanks to companies like aboutGolf. With an already diverse group of products, including PGA TOUR Simulators, aG Studio launch monitor, 50 courses and multiple range venues, Peform Pro analysis software, aG Flix video analysis system, aG Balance Pro dual-force place weight transfer analysis system, voice activation,
3D, enhanced sound modules, aG Control multiple simulator management software and more, aboutGolf plans to continue the release of new products and features. “The potential for both aboutGolf and the golf community is thrilling,” says Faust. “The partnerships and product development opportunities we are developing will revolutionize the game.” To turn your home into a golf haven or generate revenue, contact aboutGolf ’s Greater New England Area Dealer:
EverGreens Golf 31 Cronin Road Queensbury, New York (518)708-6369 www.evergreensgolf.com
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The Broken Tee The Broken Tee features three Full Swing Golf Simulators with 38 courses to choose from and various practice modes. We are currently open by appointment however we have scheduled a Special Veterans Day Opening weekend on 11/11/11 to benefit Homes For Our Troops. Public play, Leagues and Tournaments are available. Ask about our Super Shot Program and Floating Leagues which begin on 12/3/11. PGA lessons with Mark Kitchen are available at year round. Single one hour lessons are $55 or a package of 4 one hour lessons for $180. We carry a full line of TaylorMade equipment, we can properly fit you for your next set and there is a gym next door as well. Finally, while watching a game on our big screen TV’s while you play you can enjoy many different kinds of beer and feast on some food. Enjoy this great game this Indoor Golf Season at The Broken Tee Virtual Golf Club.
508-923-4653 TheBrokenTee.com 166 County Road, Lakeville, MA 02347
South Shore Country Club The Tour at the South Shore Country Club – the premier winter golfing option on the South Shore – is expanding and adding a third bay this winter. Golfers at The Tour are treated to a state of the art golfing facility that allows them to play upwards of 30 courses from around the world without ever leaving Hingham. The Tour is also a full-service sports bar with pub fare served up by the Greenside Grill and lessons from the SSCC staff are available throughout the winter. Tee Times can be reserved by contacting the SSCC and the facility is also available for private functions – ranging from office parties to birthday parties.
781-749-1747
southshorecc.com 274 South Street, Hingham MA 02043
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Big Sticks An Indoor golf practice, training and instructional facility. Whether you're a novice golfer needing lessons, a recreational player wanting to play Pebble Beach, or an avid player wanting to practice year round-we offer something for every golfer. With our Aboutgolf simulator, ASTAR video, aG studio NEW, SwingModel bay and Vector launch monitor- BSG is a place to get the swing you want with the training and equipment you need. Terry Felty, the Director of Instruction at Big Sticks, was named Massachusetts Golf Teacher of the Year for 2010 by the NEPGA and listed as Top 25 Golf Instructor by New England Golf Monthly. aG Studio is more than a launch monitor-captures raw data from the club & ball using 3Trak. Goes far beyond basic ball data and makes you rethink the concept of a launch monitor. Mention this ad & receive 10% off any Membership purchased during Oct & Nov.
B Big St Stick St Sticks e scor for those who keep
g o l f
781.229.2269 bigsticksgolf.com 26 Ray Ave Burlington, MA 01803
City Golf CityGolf Boston is known as Boston’s Premier Indoor Golf Practice Facility for a reason, our annual members average a 30% handicap reduction each year! Take advantage of NE GOLF MONTHLY CODE>>>>> our best ever discount of only $800, valid for 4 months (you pick the start date), membership valid at CityGolf Boston (38 Bromfield St) and CityGolf Walpole (2250 Providence Hgwy - Route 1) · Unlimited indoor golf lessons (30 minutes each). 1.5 hours per week on CitySim golf simulator · Free lunch with lesson or CitySim booking · Free Club Fitting · Referral Extension · All day member guest pass for $70.00 · Unlimited indoor practice in both locations as well as 1/2 price outdoors in Walpole
617-357-4653 CityGolfBoston.com 38 Bromfield St., Boston, MA 02108
SIMULATE YOUR GAME | New England Golf Monthly | 37
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Pease GC The state-of-the-art PGA TOUR Simulators by About Golf at Pease Golf Course in Portsmouth provides entertaining opportunities for golfers to keep their games sharp during the winter months. “We saw golfers who used the simulators more during the winter posting better scores during the spring and summer,” said Scott Devito, the PGA General Manager at Pease Golf Course. The system has 35 of the top golf courses in the world including Bay Harbor, Links at Casa de Campo, TPC Sawgrass, St. Andrews, Spyglass Hill, and Pebble Beach. Step outside the three simulator bays to the Grill 28 restaurant, which offers a wide variety of American cuisine food and drink options in a comfortable setting. For more information and special deals, go to www.peasegolf.com or friend us at www.facebook.com/peasegolfcourse and www.facebook.com/grill28.
603-433-1331 peasegolf.com 200 Grafton Road, Portsmouth NH 03801
Gonzo’s Indoor Golf Perfect Weather Each And Every Round! Vermont’s only Indoor Golf Center and Sports Bar with High Definition Golf Simulators.
• 8 High Definition Golf Simulators • 10 HD Tv’s • Leagues • Award Winning
PGA Instructors • PGA Club Fitting and Repair • Corporate Outings and Parties
802-881-0660 Gonzosindoorgolf.com 1860 Williston Rd., South Burlington, VT 05403
Prospect Golf High Definition Golf Simulator
Prospect Golf
Play, Practice & Learn on the World’s Greatest Courses right at Prospect Golf! Our HD Golf Simulator produces accurate data capture (not calculation) which is critical to realistic ball flight simulation and it also provides the basis for the highest quality professional instruction and club-fitting. The simulator will be available for golf instruction, club-fitting, practice and play so call today to reserve your time. Jeff DelRosso - Connecticut Section PGA-2008 Teacher of the Year
ProspectGolf.com
203.758.4121
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Fairway Cafe & Indoor Golf A FULL BAR & MENU with Indoor Golf entertainment. Compete in a variety of formats for golfers of all abilities. Practice more effectively with swing statistics on every shot. (Club Speed, Club Face at Impact, Swing Path) Perfect for Group Play, Functions, Events. Winter Leagues now forming. Located at Cedar Hill Golf Course in Stoughton, Less than 2 miles from Route 24, Exit 18B
617-592-9446 617-592-9446 1137 Park St. Stoughton MA
The Tee Box The Tee Box has three golf simulators, a pool table, beer, wine and refreshments, several high definition televisions for your enjoyment and relaxation. All three golf stations are high definition simulators, with 15 plus actual courses to play and more features available. Print out or bring in this ad and get a free half an hour of gold when you purchase an hour, offer expires 1/31/2012.
781-754-7218 TheTeeBoxUSA.com 284 Monponsett St., Halifax, MA 02338
Sunsation HD Indoor Golf The most accurate club swing analysis and most realistic courses. Open year round 7 days a week. Driving range, new softer hitting surface. Lessons available w/ golf professional Jerry Frechette (certified in regular, natural and Dave Pelz golf). Simulator time @ $25 / hour. Play online, in Leagues, Fund Raising Tournaments or book a Private Party. Watch the games while you play!
860-848-4653 sunsationhdindoorgolf.com 1031 Gristmill Plaza, Rte 32, Uncasville, CT
Western Mass Family Golf Coming in November! Play, Practice and Learn on our aboutGolf Simulator. Lessons provided by PGA Pro, Jim McDonald. Tee times and leagues available. Rates will start at $25/hr. for simulator time. We have food and refreshments as well. Contact Us on our website for exclusive specials and news about our upcoming open house. Finally, our outdoor range bays are fully heated so you can practice outside when weather permits all winter long.
413-586-2311 WMassFamilyGolf.com 294 Russell St. Hadley, MA 01035 SIMULATE YOUR GAME | New England Golf Monthly | 39
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OptiGolf OptiGolf Center will be open November 2011 for Year Round Golf, Entertainment and Conferences. The 7,000 sq. ft. facility features 9 state-of-the-art OptiGolf simulators w/ access to 75 world class courses. PGA instruction & club fitting with video swing analysis. Full pub and bar menu. Large screen TV's, meeting spaces and lounge areas. Open to the public w/ leagues and tournaments available.
978-539-8725 OptiGolfCenters.com 220 South Main St. Middleton, MA
King of Swing Come play or practice on our two aboutGolf Simulators. Learn from PGA Pro, Todd Cook on our OptiShot simulator. We offer 32 world class courses and ten different practice modes to choose from. You can book a tee time or start your own league w/ 8 or less players. Rates start at $30/hr and we offer 1 month and 3 month memberships. Custom built clubs and professional club repair also available.
781-284-6100 KingOfSwingGolf.com 55 American Legion Hwy. Revere, MA 02151
Oceans 18 Indoor Golf Featuring Indoor Full Swing Golf “ Worldwide Leader in Golf Simulation ‘ Play with real clubs and balls. 18 Championship courses, Pebble Beach , St Andrews etc Practice area to maintain your game. Play in a Winter league. Golf Lessons by Jim Nichols USGTF instructor. Indoor Glow in the dark Mini golf course | With party rooms and a video arcade | Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
508-985-1966 Oceans-18.com 500 Kings Highway, New Bedford Ma 02740
Egremon Country Club The Egremont Country Club features the area's only Golf Simulator. Bring your own clubs and enjoy real "virtual" golf. Choose from over 50 courses including Pebble Beach, Spyglass & St Andrews. Leagues begin on January 2nd and run for 13 weeks. Full bar and pub menu. Advanced Tee Times suggested.
413-528-4222 x3 egremontcountryclub.com 685 South Egremont Road Great Barrington, MA 40 | New England Golf Monthly | SIMULATE YOUR GAME
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TourLinks Putting Greens
Gain the home team advantage with the new fan favorite putting greens from Fan Mats and Tour Links. Our state of the art high quality graphics are vibrantly printed directly on to the putting surface while maintaining that perfect roll you have come to expect from Tour Links. Support your favorite COLLEGE or PRO TEAM, salute the U.S. MILITARY or promote your CORPORATE BRAND with the new logo printed putting greens from Fan Mats and Tour Links. Club speed turf with adjustable breaks, and two regulation cups and pins are standard. The 4 x 10 green is ready for use in any indoor space. Molded from high impact polymers, the patented design makes installation a snap.
Putting practice just got FANatical! Call 866 921-7888 or visit www.TourLinks.net
Deadsolid Golf Simulators For Sale WANT TO START YOUR OWN INDOOR GOLF CLUB OR PUT A SIMULATOR IN YOUR HOME? Two DeadSolid Golf Simulators For Sale! These simulators have the latest upgrades and are powered by Mini Mac. Both of the simulators have new screens along with additional hardware and sensors. One of the simulators comes with video analysis and club fitting software.
For More Information Contact: Rod at 978-697-4337 Email golfrod01@aol.com SIMULATE YOUR GAME | New England Golf Monthly | 41
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Player’s Perspective
Bob Vokey By Ed Travis
Wedge maker extraordinaire
Fifteen years ago Titleist wanted to get in to the high performance wedge business and asked Bob Vokey to head up the effort. Vokey produced a series of classically designed wedges that developed a devoted following…from PGA Tour players to avid amateurs. New England Golf Monthly did an exclusive interview with Vokey and he talked about some of the current topics all club makers are facing. Two years ago the United States Golf Association decreased in the allowable cross section of grooves in short irons. This was thought to have major long term consequences for players of every level, so that’s where we started.
NEGM: What effect has the USGA rule change regarding grooves had on the wedge play of amateurs? BV: Well, many amateurs are still playing wedges with pre-2010 grooves, so I would say the effect has been limited at this point. For amateurs, the areas where they may notice the most difference in performance with the condition of competition (C-C) [i.e., those with the new smaller cross section] grooves will be from the rough and wet grass. NEGM: Is the effect different for professional players and how is it different? BV: You know, it hasn't really affected the Tour players at all. In fact, many of them prefer the C-C grooves because now they can get to back pins. There's a reason why the commercials say, "These Guys are Good." They simply adapted their game to the new grooves. Tour stats prove it out. Scoring average has stayed the same and it doesn't seem that there is a much bigger emphasis on driving accuracy from the guys on Tour. Vokey’s latest wedge design features “spin-milled grooves,” designated SM4 and we asked their significance. NEGM: What was the purpose of developing the SM4 grooves? BV: Back in 2009, the Groove Rule change was a
huge deal for us. We had to make new conforming wedges for over 2,000 players across the worldwide professional tours in less than six months. It was an incredible effort. With the C-C grooves, we had to be conservative. We couldn't risk having some grooves that were non-conforming. So we couldn't really push the edge radius limit. Fast forward to today, we've had two years of working on a new groove configuration. We tested over 50 groove configurations at our Oceanside Test Center with Tour players. This new groove is right up against the USGA limit. NEGM: How are the new SM4 grooves different from those on previous USGA groove rule conforming wedges? BV: Like I said, these grooves are right up against the USGA "two circle" conformance test. We developed a new process to 100% inspect every groove. That's not just on Tour wedges; we are going to inspect every groove on every wedge that we sell. No other company is even attempting to do that. But that way, we know that we are right up against the limit without exceeding it. We've also added three score lines to the new SM4 grooves. We went from 14 to 17 grooves on each wedge. Once again, this came from testing over 50
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groove configurations. You can't have too many grooves, because then they won't be large enough to channel water and debris. We think we found the optimum. The 17 grooves will keep the ball from riding up the face and keep the trajectory down. It's back to a "tour preferred" trajectory. We also added a durable heat treatment process in the impact area. This process will maintain the life of the grooves for longer, which means over the life of the wedge, you'll have better spin retention. The heat treatment only penetrates a few millimeters, so it doesn't affect the feel of the wedge. The SM4 groove is definitely the most advanced Spin Milled process we've ever offered. These wedges are like my kids. I'm proud of them! Vokey runs a custom, build-to-order shop in Carlsbad, Calif. that has begun to accept business from regular golfers and he obviously feels strongly about interacting them. NEGM: How did WedgeWorks come about and what do you expect from opening up your custom
wedge shop to use by the golďŹ ng public? BV: WedgeWorks really was a dream of mine for a long time. I wanted to combine R&D, Tour, and Custom into one area, one shop. That's WedgeWorks. Now I can give the Vokey loyalist the same options that I do for Tour players like Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy. I like to say its Tour treatment, without the card. We recently launched WedgeWorks Services. It lets you send back your Vokey for customization, personalization, TLC. It's my spa service. We can stamp the wedges, replace shafts, grips, ferrules, laser etch the shaft, even weight port the club to change the swingweight. We've got a ton of options our there at Vokey.com. NEGM: What wedge design advancements are you working on at present? BV: We're always working on new things. Without getting into too many details, we're exploring new grinds, materials and wedge constructions. And I'm always gathering feedback from players on Tour. It's the best R&D team in the world.
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Gizmos & Gadgets Winter doesn’t have to put your golf swing in the deep freeze By Ed Travis
Training aids that can be used indoors
Generally golfers, to put it mildly, dislike northern winters. It’s usually cold and snowy which precludes playing the game they love plus those months of inactivity mean those first swings of spring are... well, you know.The solution of course is to winter in a warmer climate but reality being what it is, that’s impractical except for maybe short trips. So what’s the solution? A good choice is to do some work on your swing in front of a crackling fire with training aids that can be used indoors. The ones we describe here are by no means the only on the market but each has been shown to have proven value so that when the robin’s sing your swing does too. To use The Extra 20 Yards is simple, make a golf swing. The pulley, cable and weight arrangement provides resistance during the downswing and strengthens your muscles particularly in the arms and shoulders; just what you need to hit it longer…maybe even that extra 20 yards. There several neat features such as the pivoted pulley at the top keeps you on the correct swing plane and The Extra 20 Yards may be used by left or right handed players. An excellent idea is to use it first one way then switch to the other so both sides get a work out. The weights are neither too heavy nor too light resulting in a good work out without straining. It mounts almost any place (garage, deck area, basement, etc.) and the makers say great results come from only using it a few minutes a day. The Extra 20 Yards is available at extra-yards.com for $299 plus shipping.
Golf Gym PowerSwing Trainer is elastic tubing for stretching and strength building that can increase your flexibility and help with making a better rotation during the swing; keys to longer and more accurate shots. The PowerSwing Trainer may be used out-of-doors or indoors but many find it especially useful in the winter for maintaining and even increasing golfing muscles when there is no chance to play. Each box comes with a PowerCord (you can order from a choice of 3 resistance levels), a right or left hand grip (your choice), a DVD to show the proper exercises with instruction booklet and a carry bag. Golf Gym says there are 23 different exercises you can do with the PowerSwing Trainer. The price is $34.95 at golf shops and several online stores.
Orange Whip proves you don’t need a hi-tech device to help your golf swing. This weighted super whippy shafted trainer weighs under two pounds but a few minutes swing it each day produces the muscle memory needed for a balanced in-tempo swing. Most golfers swing too quickly and “come over the top” on the down swing. The Orange Whip teaches rhythm and patience which translate into more club head speed which produces longer consistent shots. An added benefit is using the Orange Whip also strengthens the body core plus really helps with overall flexibility. It’s $109 at OrangeWhipTrainer.com.
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The TaylorMade TR3 Speed Sleeve isn’t going to make you rich or better-looking or divine the Powerball winning numbers; it is however one of those clever ideas that will help your golf game. At 14 inches long it fits around the shaft of a golf club, any golf club and gives the benefits of a weighted club for stretching and getting your swing in the groove. However the Speed Sleeve also has a couple of other benefits that make it even more worthwhile considering. You can hit balls with it so when the snow finally melts you have the option of practicing with a weighted club that’s actually one of your own clubs. It’s convenient and portable - fitting in your bag to take along anywhere. The benefits of swinging a weighted club are many and start with the positives of stretching before a round while building your strength through repetition. We like the Speed Sleeve as a chipping and putting trainer. Adding the 228 gram weight to a wedge or putter now is great for learning how to banish deadly “flippy wrist” pitches or chips. The same is true for taking the wrists out of a putting stroke and teaching the proper use of the shoulders. Suggested retail for the TaylorMade TR3 Speed Sleeve is $29.95. Thumb Caddie is more practical than the old “reminder-grip” since you can hit balls with it and regardless of the style grip used, be it the Vardon or interlocking or ten fingers. The Thumb Caddie positions the left thumb (for a right handed player) properly on the top of the shaft. To use it just spread it apart, slide it on to the shaft over the lower part of the grip aligning the arrow on the Thumb Caddy and it’s in place. Easy to install or remove and use. It may not make you the next Hogan or Nicklaus but it will show you how to correctly place you hands which is the start of a good swing. Thumb Caddy is $7.99 or in three-pac with an instructional DVD for $19.95 at www.thumbcaddy.net or (781)-828-7747. Tour Angle 144 consists of a plastic arm with a curved channel on one end and a rubber-tipped prong on the other. Using it couldn’t be simpler, place the end with channel between the third and fourth fingers of the left hand, grip with the right hand, address the ball and position the wrists so the rubber prong just touches the left forearm. Then make a swing keeping the prong in contact with the forearm until the club is about waist high. On the downswing the rubber prong again touches the left forearm at about waist high and stays there through contact to waist high on the follow through. The Tour Angle 144 does at least two good things. First it promotes the proper address position specifically the relationship between the arms and the club shaft. Secondly by maintaining contact on the backswing it ensures the fabled “one-piece takeaway” every player should have to hit the ball squarely. A key feature is, unlike other training aids, the Tour Angle 144 is not attached to the club or the arm, staying in place by normal grip pressure making it quick and easy to use and switch from club to club. It can be used with other training aids since it does force you into certain positions and quite possibly will increase the effectiveness of the other devices. On the web at Tourangle144.com.for $29.95 with a training DVD included. The Altus Forearm Flexor is more a body building training device but in fact it works for anyone who needs stronger wrists and forearms such as required for a powerful golf swing. The Flexor has adjustable tension of the steel spring with lots of padding so it can be used watching the Patriots on television or most any where. It is small so its convenient to carry with you and it will make your forearms stronger. Just $14.99 at online or big box sporting goods stores. SIMULATE YOUR GAME | New England Golf Monthly | 45
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PuttingShark, presented by P3ProSwing
For golfers who long for a reliable yet user-friendly way to analyze and improve their putting strokes, PuttingShark is a dream come true. PuttingShark is a putting analyzer and simulator, a complete portable putting-training aid that accurately records and measures the putting stroke. Golfers can choose between practice and a putting game. In either mode, PuttingShark will analyze each putt for clubface angle, swing path, angle of attack, club speed and sweet-spot deviation. PuttingShark is the most accurate putting aid that records the stroke itself. PuttingShark measures and
calculates millions of bits of data as the club travels through the impact zone. This information then is displayed instantly in an easy-to-read analysis window, showing swing data as well as ball roll. PuttingShark also offers hundreds of variations to practice, with options to adjust green speed, line breaks and incline, and decline settings for nearly every putt imaginable. With PuttingShark, golfers can work on their putting strokes while at home or at the office. Players will enjoy measurably-improved putting results, becoming “sharks� around the greens. P3ProSwing.com
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Indoor Golf Training by Jim Hackenburg
Growing up in North Dakota, I had the dilemma of six months of winter, which was not helpful for my golf game. Each spring, I would spend a month or two just getting my swing back in shape, almost like I was starting over. What if you didn’t have to start over, what if you could actually improve your golf swing (and physique) during those cold winter months? Now you can, by using the Orange Whip Trainer and Orange Peel for just a few minutes a day. Your strength, flexibility, and swing speed will increase, and your shot-making will become more accurate and consistent. The Orange Whip Trainer was designed to empower golfers to discover their ideal swing plane, create “Tour Pro” lag, achieve perfect sequence of motion, and promote balance that is supported from the ground up. If a golfer trains their swing without hitting golf balls, the mind and body will allow the swing to develop naturally. The Orange Whip can eliminate the ‘hit’ instinct from your mind and consistency will be developed. Since a majority of golf swing flaws are caused by poor balance, finding proper balance is imperative. The Orange Peel was designed to enhance the golf swing learning process by altering static and dynamic balance positions. Similar to standing at the bottom of a sphere, the Peel creates a slight inward pressure on the feet and legs. This will stabilize and support the hips and core region at address and allow you to maintain this athletic relationship of posture & balance during the full swing motion. Also, the Orange Peel allows the user to direct their center of gravity to address swing faults, recreate slope conditions, and experiment with different swing planes. By adjusting the placement of their feet on the Orange Peel, the golfer is able to naturally change their tilt, spine angle and swing plane quickly and effectively. The Orange Whip and Orange Peel can be used in-
doors without compromising their unparalleled performance. Requiring a minimal amount of space and 5-10 minutes of training time per day, they are ideal tools for those living in challenging winter environments and busy individuals with little time to practice. Now anyone can make the most out of the winter months and improve without hitting golf balls.
There is a $10 exclusive discount for NEGM readers. Go to OrangeWhipTrainer.com and enter code NEGM when you are at BUY NOW. SIMULATE YOUR GAME | New England Golf Monthly | 47
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NEPGA Profile by Bob DiCesare
Gary Parker CITYGOLF BOSTON
When Gary Parker won Boston Magazine's Best of Boston Award as its Best Golf Instructor in 2007, many avid golfers in the city took notice. Parker doesn't set up shop at a golf course with green grass, rolling fairways, and a spacious driving range. Instead, his expertise takes place at CityGolf Boston – right in the heart of a bustling metropolis just one block from Downtown Crossing on Bromfield Street. A Westwood, MA native, the 42-year-old Parker didn't take up golf until he was 17. After earning a marketing degree at UMass-Amherst, he became a PGA Class A professional and first worked at Tom Kite's signature golf course at the Legend's Club of Tennessee. He then became lead golf instructor at the Stow Acres Golf School from 1995-1998, before finding his golf oasis at an indoor facility in the retail district. Parker moved over to CityGolf Boston in 1999 as a co-manager/instructor and by June, 2000, became principle owner. He teaches roughly 25 hours per week and co-manages the facility with Ben Derrick. There are eight PGA professionals and/or apprentices on staff at CityGolf Boston, which features six hitting bays, two teaching bays, two full-swing golf simulators, ball launch monitors, self-use swing analyzers, and a putting green. Parker said the average member or client at CityGolf Boston is either a 25 to 54 year-old male executive who is an avid golfer, or a "newbie" female who is learning the game and then stays on looking to improve their skills. "We have twice as many women who take lessons, and that makes us women-friendly," said Parker. "We saw that coming – golf accessibility in a convenient, low-pressure setting." With a downtown location, it's no surprise that Parker is busiest as an instructor during the lunch and dinner
hours, when men and women wearing business attire pass by the storefront frequently. Also, Parker said the busy season extends beyond the traditional winter months right to the end of July. CityGolf Boston's claim to fame is that the average annual member reduces his/her GHIN/USGA handicap by 30 percent per year. It has also outlasted nine other golf facilities in the downtown area in the last 12 years. What makes it tick? "Lowering your handicap is what our company is about," said Parker. "That's year after year. We lower your score. There's no preconceived notions." "CityGolf Boston clients simply hit more golf balls," added Parker. "We're convenient and open in the winter. All we do is teach. Clients feel very strongly that they have a game plan in place when they walk out of here." CityGolf Boston has also expanded to an indoor facility on Route 1 in Walpole, but it also knows where its core of golfers lies. That's why Parker is hoping to open another instructional facility at the Prudential Center in 2012. "We like the Back Bay," said Parker. "The demographics are good. Right now, the Prudential Center is the immediate future, with possible expansion into other cities." (Bob DiCesare is the golf writer for The Enterprise in Brockton, MA, and he is also a member of the International Network of Golf)
Rehoboth Country Club Tournaments & Outings
FALL RATES Mon.-Wed. from 7am – 12pm Regular: $35 w/ cart Seniors: $30 w/ cart Thursday – Friday Regular: $40 w/ cart Seniors: $35 w/ cart * Prices per person. This special can not be used w/ another special, discount, at outings or on holidays.
(508) 252-6259 RehobothCC.com
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October2011_Layout 1 10/10/2011 2:45 PM Page 50
Sampson’s Spotlight – Divot Repair Putter
by Greg Sampson The Claim There are three things I have heard many golfers complain about: a bad back, ball marks on the greens and poor putting. The Double Duty, Divot Repair Putter claims that it has a cure for all three. The patent pending center shafted putter features a divot tool fixed to the back of the putter and comes in standard, belly and long putter lengths. Let’s see how golfers with these three symptoms made out with the Double Duty!
Scan to Watch a Video on Your Phone
The Test I had golfers of various skill levels whose weakness is putting, complain about people not fixing ball marks (they aren’t to good at it themselves) and have sore backs due to operations, old age etc. All of the golfers putted from different lengths on the putting green and then took it into competition. I even tried the standard length center shaft myself… The Verdict It turns out that this unique and clever design does fill a niche in the putter industry after all. All of the players that tried the long putter made more short putts and lagged putts closer stating that they liked the weight of the putter and that it was easy to line up using the divot tool as their guide. Every golfer I spoke with was surprised how many more ball marks they fixed on the course because they saw a reminder every time they had a putter in their hand and realized that the putter enforces the proper fixing of a mark as you can not pull up a ball mark as most golfers do not do. Finally, when asked if their backs felt less stress after a round of golf? The most common answer was; Let’s go play another 18! I would recommend this putter to any golfer that has these “golf symptoms.” Your handicap, your back and your greens super intendent will thank you for it. For More Information Visit: www.divotrepairputter.com
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October2011_Layout 1 10/10/2011 2:45 PM Page 51
F2 Golf The Claim Many golfers are afraid of the deadly, dare I say it; SHANK! Well F2 Golf has come out with its second generation of "Face Forward Technology" wedges but has added a revolutionary hosel and extended their line to irons and hybrids. Their claim has always been "Shank Proof," and they have proved this with their first generation wedge design. Their new claim is that their patent pending "Dog Leg Hosel" provides the beautiful traditional look that most players have come to know and love. A shank proof, traditional looking set of wedges, irons and hybrids? I gotta try this!
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The Test As a lower handicap player I am all about feel and look with not much worry about the hosel area. My test was not only to see if they helped my game but if I could look down at them. The full line of F2 equipment was put through the test hitting various shots in different conditions along with in play for afternoon skins games and club tournaments. While doing so golfers of different abilities had the opportunity to try them and look down at them. After sometime in the spotlight I took in account my own opinion and the testimonials I heard in the process. Below is the verdict... The Verdict Like many golfers I have hit the occasional sha-laylee trying to hit a flop shot out of thick rough to a short sided pin. I did find that it is much easier to hit all kinds of shots with the F2 wedges as the club face stays more square through impact. The irons were much easier to strike out of the rough and were great for trying to get the ball to jump for roll out shots. The hybrid is by far one of the easiest hybrids I have swung. The club head doesn't grab in the gnarliest of lies including soft fairway bunkers. Almost all the golfers that tried F2 Golf liked them, never hit a shank and were impressed by the traditional look. Its only flaw is in the shaft option so if need be take it to your local pro. I would recommend F2 Golf to anyone that is "Afraid of the S Word" or wants to make golf much easier while still looking good! For More Information Visit: www.F2Golf.com
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52 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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Now Open!
1st Prize
Drew Spindler | Frances Rush 2nd Prize
Norman Couture | Cheryl Bagana 3rd Prize
Rob Lukomski | Tricia Bulka
FB NEGolfMonthly for Pictures & Videos from the Event October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 53
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Team New England On The Tours Keegan Bradley and Scott Stallings are our shining stars for TNE in their rookie season on the PGA TOUR winning three events between them including the PGA Championship. To date, it has been a rather lack luster year for our players. While there are a handful of events remaining on a couple tour venues, I would say that 2011 could be our turnaround year. With the obvious level of talent that exists among TNE’s players, some specific and focused work could lead to a banner year in 2012. Until then, let’s see how TNE does on the Champions, LPGA and Nationwide tours that still have events remaining in 2011.
PGA TOUR Keegan Bradley, PGA (VT) has had quite a rookie season winning the PGA Championship and Bryon Nelson. Bradley, making the cut in 18 events in 28 starts with 4 top 10 and 12 top 25 finishes, earned $3,758,600 in his first year on the tour. Bradley finished 13th on the money list and 20th in the FedX standings. Scott Stallings, PGA (MA) made 12 cuts in 27 starts. In addition to his win at the Greenbrier, Scott had a third place, 2 top 10 and 7 top 25 finishes. Scott’s earnings this year sit at $1,927, 865, good enough for 30th on the money list and 57th in the final FedX standings. Tim Petrovic, PGA (MA) made 14 cuts in 26 starts which included 3 top 25 finishes and had earnings of $404,970. Finding himself out of the top 125, Petrovic will have to use exemptions next year is he is to play on the PGA TOUR. James Driscoll, PGA (MA) sits at $636,065 in earnings with 2 top 10 and 3 top 25 finishes as he has made 10 cuts in 21 starts this season. Driscoll finished regular season play ranked 117th on the money list, keeping his playing privileges. J.J. Henry, PGA (CT) earned $873,377, (93rd on the money list), this year while making 20 cuts in 26 starts with 1 top 10 and 8 top 25 finishes. Well off his earnings pace of the past three years, Henry remains one of our most consistent players for Team New England.
CHAMPIONS TOUR Allen Doyle, has also made the cut in all 11 of his starts with 1 top 25 finish, earning $44,866.
Dana Quigley, has made 12 cuts in 13 starts of his events this year earning $56,531.
Brad Faxon, Champions (RI) made the jump to the Champions Tour in August. So far, Brad has made 5 cuts in 5 starts with 1 top 25 finish earning $73,381 to date.
LPGA TOUR Anna Grzebien, has made 5 cuts in 12 starts earning $29,403. As Anna completes her fourth full season of tour play, she may be getting ready to make a move to rival her 2009 season when she earned just under $169,000.
Allison Walsh has made 4 cuts in 11 starts earning $60,772. She has finished T10 at the Safeway and T27 in the U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN. Allison is in 83rd position on the LPGA TOUR money list.
Jim Renner, PGA (MA) made 9 cuts in 20 starts earning $342,763 in his full year playing on the PGA TOUR. Jim’s best finish was a T4 at the Viking Classic. Renner finished in 159th position, out of the top 125 but I am sure we’ve not heard the last of this talented player from Plainville. Brett Quigley, PGA (RI) has struggled this season, making only 3 cuts in 10 starts on the PGA competing where he could get into the field. A solo Nationwide appearance nets Brett’s formal earnings at $60,425 for the year.
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NATIONWIDE TOUR
LPGA FUTURES TOUR
Patrick Sheehan, (RI) has made 7 cuts in 18 starts earning $18,236 in 2011. This has not been a stellar year for Sheehan. Patrick’s scoring average has been in the tank this year. In fact his scoring average is his worst since 2007.
Natalie Sheary, LPGA Futures, (CT) is competing in her first season on the Futures Tour. Sheary earned $15,011 in 11 starts with 3 top 10 finishes this year. A rookie, Natalie has had a respectable first year finishing in 35th position on the Futures Tour money list.
Trevor Murphy, Nationwide (VT) has made just 8 cuts in 21 starts for earnings of $30,266. Trevor appears to have fallen into what I call the ‘slump abyss’ over the past several weeks. We are sure it is temporary.
Chelsea Cutis (MA) in her second year finished the season with earnings of $4,416 in 15 starts. This talented young lady has her work cut out for her this winter to get a handle on some swing issues that haunted her this year.
Rob Oppenheim, Nationwide (MA) has made 14 cuts with 2 top 10 and 10 top 25 finishes in his 22 starts earnings of $107,794 to date. With 4 events remaining at this writing, Oppenheim has time to crack the top 25 on the money list to earn his PGA TOUR card for next year.
Libby Smith (VT) has 6 starts this year with earnings of $560 on the Futures Tour. Along with the $3,578 she earned in the Thailand Ladies Open, Libby’s total 2011 earnings are at $4,138 as this season.
Geoff Sisk, Nationwide (MA) having competed in 20 events Sisk has made 10 cuts earning $34,378. Sisk, a talented player in his fourth full year on the Nationwide just needs to be patient a little longer.
Julie Erekson (MA) is in her 4th year on the Futures Tour earning $3,789 in 10 starts. If Julie gets a handle on her greens hit, it should go a long way toward improving her scoring average and hence her earnings.
Justin Peters, Nationwide (MA) has started in 11 events this year making 1 cut earning $1,540 thus far. Looking at Justin’s stats, his dedication to his short game would greatly improve his scoring, hence his earnings. There’s no question the talent is there.
Kim Augusta (RI) having had a taste of competition on the LPGA TOUR in 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2004, Kim has earnings of $2,087 in 15 starts this year. Her stats indicate if she can improve her fairway and sand game, Augusta could turn things around in 2012.
Brad Adamonis, Nationwide (RI) has made 10 cuts in 20 starts with 2 top 25 finishes earning $38,524 to date. Brad’s numbers and stats of recent weeks indicate he is getting tired but with four events left, don’t count him out.
Briana Vega (MA) has 16 starts with earnings of $5,238 as the year ends. Briana’s talent is unquestionable. That said Vega needs to get a handle on her sand and putting stats which should greatly improve her earnings in 2012.
Jeff Curl, Nationwide, (CT) has made 5 cuts in 12 starts on the Nationwide, earning $11,691 to date. Some work on tee shots and scrambling could turn things around for Jeff in 2012.
Haley Gidea (RI) did not compete this year on the Futures Tour as her name was not on the roster of any events.
Fran Quinn, (MA) playing on both the PGA and NATIONWIDE Tours has made 2 cuts in 7 starts for $37,517 on the PGA circuit and 3 cuts in 7 starts on the Nationwide earning $22,630 for total earnings so far in 2011 of $60,147.
Susan Choi, (MA) has had only 3 starts in 2011 with no earnings. Decision time for this talented young lady we.
Amber Richardson (RI) last competed in the Alliance Bank Classic in 2010. Like Haley, Amber’s name did not appear on Futures Tour rosters this season.
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College Corner Harvard Mens Golf The Harvard University Mens Golf Team led by Head Coach Jim Burke has assembled a highly competitive squad poised to compete for Ivy League titles and championships. The Crimson, which has improved its tournament scoring average in each of its last five seasons, will field a well balanced team consisting of returning players and newcomers from many regions of the United States, one from the United Kingdom, and three local talents from Massachusetts. Four players (senior Academic all American captain Tony Grillo from Marthas Vineyard, senior Academic all American Mark Pollak from San Antonio, sophomore Theo Lederhausen from Illinois, and Seiji Liu from Beverly Hills) participated in all matches during the 2010 season. Adding depth to this talented squad is returning junior Michael Lai from California, along with newcomers Akash Mirchandani from Kentucky, Jordan Mann from the United Kingdom, Connor Wentzell from Worcester Massachusetts and Kevin McCarthy from Lynn, Massachusetts ; all who will be competing for a position on the tournament roster. The team anticipates completing the season in the winning tradition which began when the program was founded in 1896. So far this year the team finished 2nd at HYP, 8th at The MacLaughlin and 5th at Yale's MacDonald Cup. There is a log jam between there team members for the lowest individual average at 72. Follow the team for the 2011 - 2012 season at gocrimson.com.
URI Rams Mens Golf The URI Mens Golf Team has had a fair spring
with its best finish of 4th coming in its first tournament of the year, the Blue Devils Invitational. In its home event, The Adams Cup which is held in Newport they finished 12th while UCF successfully defended with blistering 9 under par 54 hole total and breaking the 18 year tournament record by 12 shots. After a 6th place finish at their first even of their CT tour the team finished 7th in a very challenging event the The MacDonald Invitational at Yale. The Rams star player in the fall thus far has been Enfield, Connecticut's Branden Chicorka with a tournament average of 72.3. Remember to follow them at gorhody.com.
Bryant University Bulldogs The Bryant University got off to a solid start in their first event of the year with an 8th place finish at the Blue Devil Invitational. Since then they have struggled a bit with a 19th place finish at the Adams Cup of Newport followed up by a better finish of 13th at the Harvard Hawk Invitational. Their lowest individual scoring average through three events is Spencer Sweizer with a 75.3 average and lowest finish on the team of 4th. Look for this team to improve all year as Head Coach Charlie Blanchard makes each player more tournament tough! Watch them at the Shelter Harbor Invitational on BryantBulldogs.com.
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56 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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What’s in the Bag?
Rickie Fowler - PGA Tour 2011 Korean Open Champion
Driver: Titleist 909D2 (7.5°) with a Diamana
White Board 73 X shaft Fairway Wood: King Cobra S9-1 Pro (15°) with a Fujikura ZCom Pro 95 shaft Hybrids: Titleist 585H (17°) with UST Proforce V2 100X shaft, Adams Pro Black (20°) with a Matrix Ozik XCON Irons: Titleist Forged MB (4-9) with True
Temper Dynamic Gold shafts Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design (47°, 53°) Spin Milled
(59°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts Putter: Scotty Cameron for Titleist Newport prototype Ball: Titleist’s Pro V1x Apparel: Puma - Cobra
October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 57
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What’s News Jim Ruschioni Captures His 13th MGA Title; Wins the 2011 Massachusetts Senior Amateur Championship Hingham, MA — It's an unlucky number to some, but to Jim Ruschioni (Monoosnock CC) No. 13 could not be any sweeter. Under near perfect conditions at Black Rock Country Club the 63year-old Ruschioni won the 2011 Massachusetts Senior Amateur Championship which represents his 13th career MGA Championship title. That is a mark matched by no one else in Massachusetts golf history. Over the years he has won the following MGA Championships - Mid-Amateur (3), Father & Son (2), Four-Ball (2), Senior Four-Ball (4) and Senior Amateur (2). He also - among many other accomplishments - was an 18-time club champion while a member at Oak Hill Country Club and won the 1987 New England Amateur Championship. Dave Houghton was the Super Senior Division winner.
Mike Calef Captures First Career MGA Title; Wins the 2011 Massachusetts Mid-Amateur Championship Pocasset, MA — It was a fitting end to an amateur career that began, ended and started again here in the Bay State for Mike Calef (Brockton CC). Playing in his final MGA Championship event before moving to Texas later this year, the former professional player who regained his amateur status back in 2007 came through with his first career MGA Championship win at Pocasset Golf Club. Calef becomes the 28th winner of the Massachusetts Mid-Amateur Championship. He capped off his stirring victory by posting a final round of 1-under par 71 for a three-day total of 3-under par 213.
58 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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The 2012 Ryder Cup CHICAGO, Ill. – U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III and European Ryder Cup Captain José María Olazábal teed-off for a once-in-a lifetime golf shot from Trump International Hotel & Tower® Chicago’s 16th Floor Terrace on September 26, 2011, in celebration of reaching the year-out mark of the 2012 Ryder Cup. Each captain attempted three 220-yard shots targeting a golf green modeled after the 17th hole at Medinah and custom-built on a barge floating on the Chicago River. The stunt raised money for charity, with The PGA of America in conjunction with the Ryder Cup Magnificent Moments fundraising campaign donating $100,000 to benefit the Illinois PGA Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana. The 2012 Ryder Cup will be played Sept. 25-30, 2012, at historic Medinah (Ill.) Country Club near Chicago.
October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 59
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Jimmy Fund Golf: Just Fore the Kids The Chupinski family, of Marlborough, Mass., created Just Fore the Kids, a Jimmy Fund Golf tournament to raise funds for patient activities at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Jimmy Fund Clinic. The Jimmy Fund Clinic is one of the world's premier centers for pediatric cancer research and treatment. Each year the tournament brings family, friends, and co-workers out for a great day of golf, while always remembering it is for a good cause. Over the past three years, Just Fore the Kids has raised more than $46,000 for patient activities at Dana-Farber’s Jimmy Fund Clinic. The Jimmy Fund Golf Program is one of the oldest and largest charity golf programs in the country. Now in its 29th year, The Jimmy Fund Golf Program has raised more than $80 million for life-saving cancer research and treatment for adults and children at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The 2011 presenting sponsors for this year’s program include American Airlines, Callaway Golf, Dunkin’ Donuts, Forty Seven Brand, HomeGoods, the International Golf Club, and GateHouse Media New England. For more information, visit www.jimmyfundgolf.org or call 866-521-4653.
The Local Golf Community Mourns The Loss of MGA Past President and Longtime Rules Official Biff Kelley Norton, MA — The Massachusetts Golf Association and New England Golf Association lost a vibrant and special member of its family recently. Biff Kelley - a longtime rules official for the MGA and NEGA and an MGA Past President - passed away at the age of 74. Kelley, who was also a member at the MiltonHoosic Club, has been a fixture in the local golf community for decades. Over the years, he officiated at hundreds of MGA and NEGA Championships as well as USGA qualifiers and regional tournaments.
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60 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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62 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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Pay it Forward by Neil Policow
Using the Internet to Promote Your Tournament
Up until a few years ago any organization that ran a tournament had a reasonable expectation that they would attract a full field of golfers and sponsors. Not so today. Golfers are playing in fewer charity events and sponsors are increasingly selective regarding the causes that they choose to support. Effective pre-event promotion with a tournament website is one of your keys to success. Using the Internet is a simple and cost-effective approach to reach your target audience. While developing your budget, make sure to factor in online content as part of your marketing campaign. Think in terms of a detailed timeline of online releases starting well in advance of the tournament date. Ideally you should launch your website 60 days or more in advance.
Here’s why. The well established events have already carved out a slot in the local Event Calendar. When you read about the “25th Annual” event you can bet that the golf committee picked out the dates for next year’s tournament literally months ahead. Some larger committees start planning immediately post-event, close to a year in advance. The Internet can be the great equalizer. Whether you
use in-house capabilities or bring in outside resources, a dedicated tournament website will be a wise investment. Properly done, your website gives you a big time, professional look. For an example of a modern, interactive site go to www.ltsevent.com/boston/bruins11 Smaller events can have the same web presence as the major players for about the same money. Identify the specific “hot buttons” for your target audience, for example: · Online event registration makes it easy for your audience to respond and minimizes financial risk waiting for payment the day of event. Consider a discount for early payment. · Pre-event auction and raffle details will promote active bidding before the event, again minimizing risk. · Link your website to key sponsor websites to drive traffic. Give your sponsors maximum exposure to make your event stand out. · Thank all of your participants immediately after the tournament and put in a plug for next year. Neil Policow is a Partner in LeaderBoard of Boston and a GTAA certified golf tournament consultant. Last year LeaderBoard supported events raised more than $3 million dollars. Email him at npolicow@ltsleaderboard.com
October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 63
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Presenting Sponsors:
Eagle Sponsors: CHAMP SPIKES | PEPSI
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JIMMY FUND GOLF is one of the nation’s largest and longest-running charity golf programs. Fight cancer through golf and help Dana-Farber Cancer Institute beat this disease.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED: sȩ 3tart a traditional tournament sȩȩ(OSTȩA member-member or member-guest sȩ 2un a mini-golf tournament sȩ /RGANIZEȩAȩgolf marathon sȩȩ3ponsor a tournament
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Sandestin Green Valley Country Club Newport National Golf Club Quashnet Valley Remax Cityscapes Black Pearl Marina East Shore Properties Homes at Old Marsh White Cliffs Country Club Apple & Eve Northland Juices Executive Women's Golf Association Aruba Steve's Tifosi Optics Cranberry Valley Golf Course New England Golf Cars Segregansett Country Club Fall River Country Club Granite Links aBoutGolf The Broken Tee South Shore Country Club Big Sticks City Golf Pease Golf Course Gonzos Prospect Golf Fairways Indoor Golf The Tee Box SunSation Western Mass Family Golf King of Swing Oceans 18 Egremont Country Club Tour Links Putting Greens Putting Shark Perfect Golf Labs Optimal Club GPS Orange Whip Rehoboth Country Club Real Feel Golf Mats Golf Country Golf Minnesota Aero Tee Dennis Sales Golf F-2 Golf Belly Putt Olde Scotland Links Allendale Country Club Joe and Leigh's Golf Performance Ctr Tour Striker Wynn & Wynn Circle of Trust Golf My Golfing Goals D.W. Field Golf Club Hillside Country Club Pin High Pro Trigg's Memorial Golf Course Southers Marsh Golf Club Sterling Golf
66 | New England Golf Monthly | October / November 2011
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61 61 61 61 62 62 62 62 62 62 63 63 71 72
Little Harbor Country Club Windmill Hill Golf Club Ballymeade Country Club The Brookside Club The Ledges Golf Club Blissful Meadows Golf Club Beaver River Golf Club The Smartcart App Outlook Golf The Sun N Air Golf Center Leaderboard of Boston Golfweek Amateur Tour Golfology Opti Golf
littleharborcountryclub.com windmillgolfri.com ballymeade.com thebrooksideclub.com ledgesgolf.com blissfulmeadows.com beaverrivergolf.com smartcartapp.com outlookgolf.com sunairgolf.com leaderboardboston.com amateurgolftour.net golfologyusa.com optigolf.com
myNEGM.com October & November 2011 Vol IV. Issue VIII
Editor / Publisher Timothy R. Branco Graphic Design & Production CollectiveThoughtMedia.com Administration Mary L. Hullett Contributors Tom Gorman Greg Sampson Tim Geary John Molori John Lyon Alice Scott Pam Borges Laura Ebrecht Bob DiCesare Steve Riggs Robert Martin Jeff Palopoli Kathleen Dyson Emily Kay Matt Adams Jack Ross Jim Hammond Danny Scott Ed Travis Leigh McKay Trish Davis Neil Policow
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Ken Dennis kendennisphoto.com
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Elle Brec ellebrecgolf@gmail.com
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October / November 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 67
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Gorman vs. Geary by Tom Gorman and Tim Geary
Does the USGA handicap system make is easy to be a sandbagger? by Tom Gorman
YES. Nothing gets my golf juices boiling over more than the topic of sandbaggers. This debate seems much like the weather - everyone talks about it, but nobody does anything about it. Based on my unscientific research, it appears every club has about a dozen rag tag group of nerds and rednecks, who intentionally and shamelessly manipulate the USGA handicap system. These fairway felons want to win so badly, and their games suck so much, that they have to cheat to win. Sandbaggers are solely responsible for taking some of the fun out of the game for the vast majority of golfers with honest handicaps! You know whom we’re talking about. The guy who wins his flight every other year in the club championship. The 12-handicapper from another club who waltzes in with a 74 in the member-guest. Or even your weekend buddy who always seems to beat you in a $2 Nassau because you have to give him 2 & 2. The handicap system is one of the greatest things about golf and the program was designed to enable players of all abilities to compete against one another on a level playing field. At least it’s supposed to. Any player can have a great round. But when there’s a pattern of low scores in tournaments, it raises a red flag. The primary purpose of the USGA handicap system, which is based on the best 10 of the previous 20 scores instead of a player’s average score, militates against low net numbers. Using an inflated handicap to unfairly gain strokes in competition is nothing new for golf. These days, a sandbagger operates in secret. All the practitioner needs to do is avoid entering a few low scores into the computer, or subtly manipulate the scores he or she does post, such as by deliberately missing short putts that don’t factor into winning a hole. In the absence of sufficient peer pressure and a diligent pro-shop staff or handicap committee, that handicap becomes official. A sandbagger seems to thrive in beating the system. The reward comes in the form of peer recognition if they win, while hoisting another trophy and pocketing several hundred dollars in pro-shop credit each season. Sandbagging is golf’s dirty little secret! But, in order to be called a sandbagger, you have to win some tournaments at some point in your golfing career; there-
fore slasher-de-jour Timothy Geary may never be called a sandbagger. Amazingly, there just aren’t any “W”s in a lifetime of trying. Is there a preferred method to deal with the game’s greatest criminal offense? The USGA attempts to educate clubs and golfers on using the system properly, and clubs are required to have a handicap committee that acts as a watchdog and has the power to step in, if necessary, and adjust a player’s index. Let’s face it: Being handicap chairman is not the most glamorous, or most appreciated, job at the club. Under the current USGA handicap system, devised by Dean Knuth, director of handicapping from 1981 – 1997, the most important safeguard against sandbagging is what is called “peer review.” This means that an official USGA Handicap can be established only by an organized group of golfers that have a regular and reasonable opportunity to play with one another. The Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) formula also is mildly effective in rooting out cheaters since it sets a maximum score on any hole, which prevents players from inflating one or two really bad holes in every round. Except, I don’t think any player should be allowed to post more than double-bogey on a par 3. Is a sandbagger is a dishonest duffer who only turns in his highest scores, or a good golfer disguised as a duffer! So are the days of padded handicaps over? Absolutely not, since the system is based on the assumption that every player will try to make the best score he can at each hole in every round played, and that he will honestly report every round for handicap purposes, including all tournament scores, regardless of where the round is played. Anyone who intentionally establishes a falsely high handicap is a cheater, no more or less than the golfer who mismarks his ball on the green or foot-wedges it in the rough. It’s a problem for everyone when the sandbagger is making off with the hardware in too many club tournaments! Tom Gorman is never mistaken for a sandbagger since he never wins anything, and more times than not, is called a reverse sandbagger.
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Does the USGA handicap system make is easy to be a sandbagger? by Tim Geary
We are re-visiting the handicap debate in this issue because it has always been one of the most discussed and argued aspect of the game of golf. I say “game” rather than “sport” because sports are based solely on one’s natural ability and the luck factor and not on some computer’s attempt at making everything un-naturally equal. When golf is played at the top level, be it professionally or amateur, it’s person vs person, shot for shot and whomever has the best score, or wins the most holes, is declared the victor. One would only hope that this philosophy would extend to the masses who jam (not so much these days) municipal golf courses and exclusive private country clubs. Alas, those who play golf as a form of recreation, for the most part anyway, have the backbones of jellyfish and would not participate (spend their recreational cash) in something unless they had a reasonable chance at winning, even if that victory is achieved by cheating. And let’s face it folks, the GHIN handicap system that we use in this country is a very definite form of cheating. It’s a golfing version of; A, welfare and/or, B, a golfing version of socialism (trying to negate individual ability and work ethic and replacing it with an artificial form of equality). Right now you are very likely asking the question, “I thought he was arguing the merits of the handicap system?” Well, in this debate, that’s my assignment, but in the spirit of full disclosure I like handicaps about as much as I like the way the government of the United States has been conducting business for much of this century. Still, since golf is a business and business thrives on making money, we have to face facts and the facts tell us that the game would probably cease to exist without the GHIN system in place. Golf, for the most part, is played by either working people on the weekends or retirees. Both sets of folks want to have fun on the golf course and golf, by its very nature, is anything but fun. It’s difficult, frustrating and the primary reason people drink when they’re finished playing. They don’t need any more angst in their lives, so the Royal & Ancient and the USGA years ago devised a method to synthetically level the playing field -- handicaps. This way a player who shoots a score of 85 can have a
“competitive” match with his buddy, who usually comes home close to even par. It’s designed to enhance the fun aspect, but there is another aspect to golf that skewers this; gambling. People love to wager in the golf course, be it a few bucks to several thousand. Dewey Tomko, a terrible golfer, is a terrific gambler, who has made a ton of money against much better players mainly because of the handicap system. The USGA must cringe when they hear the stories, but they are legend. Remember the gentleman from Japan, who won the AT&T Pro-Am at Pebble Beach several years ago? He owned a golf course in Japan and ordered his handicap chairman to give him an inflated handicap. Fortunately his cheating was uncovered; he was stripped of the title and barred from further participation in the event. But it illustrates the lengths that people will go to in order to win on the golf course, without of course hitting the range and pounding thousands of balls in order to improve. Ideally the GHIN system works pretty well, if people are honest, count each shot, and turn in all of their scores. It takes the 10 best scores of the latest 20 and bases the handicap on that. It’d work wonderfully except many people either don’t turn in all of their scores, some turn in scores that are either much higher or lower than they actually shot, or play terribly on purpose when there’s nothing on the line. Then, when their club or another club has a tournament they play their “A game” and clean up. For that reason many clubs now have two handicaps in place, the regular GHIN and a tournament handicap, which takes into account only scores posted from tournaments. Golf is perceived as a gentleman’s game where honor is paramount, but the handicap system shows us that this is more theory than reality. If it wasn’t why are so many events played at 80 percent of somebody’s handicap? Honor among thieves? Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. Even with his inflated handicap he can’t beat anyone
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