September 2014

Tobacco Road Golf as it was meant to be...

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Ranked the 50th best golf course in the world in Golf | Course Architecture Magazine and rated Top 100 Golf Courses in America in both Golf Magazine and Golf Digest

Travel down Tobacco Road to the Village of Pinehurst With named designers such as Coore & Crenshaw, Ross, Fazio, Jones, Nicklaus, Palmer, Maples, Love, and Strantz, it’s no wonder the Village of Pinehurst area has more quality golf courses than any other golf destination in the country and is widely known as the Home of American Golf.

Tobacco Road Travel is proud to help you plan your next golf vacation to the historic Village of Pinehurst Area and has exclusive access to the 50th best golf course in the World, Tobacco Road Golf Club.

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myNEGM.com

September 2014 Vol VII Issue VII

Editor / Publisher

Timothy R. Branco

Reach Over 700,000 New England Golfers Monthly

tim@nepubinc.com

Graphic Design & Production

Chris Hunter

CollectiveThoughtMedia.com

Administration

Mary L. Hullett

mary@nepubinc.com

Tom Gorman Contributors Tim Geary John Molori Pam Borges Alice Scott Bob DiCesare Laura Ebrecht Robert Martin Steve Riggs Kathleen Dyson Jeff Palopoli Matt Adams Emily Kay Jim Hammond Jack Ross Ed Travis Danny Scott Matt Hoeske Leigh McKay Becky Blaser Elisa Gaudet Greg Sampson Matt Ward

Contributing Photographers Ken Dennis | kendennisphoto.com Rich Gagnon | Taunton, MA

Greg Sampson - Manager

New England Golf Monthly is published 10 times yearly by The New England Publishing Group Inc. Reproduction of the contents, images and editorial is strictly prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Neither advertiser or publisher will be held liable for errors or omissions in any content of this publication. All rights reserved.

Paul Mignosa – Associate

For product marketing, distribution and/or direct mail information contact tim@nepubinc.com

Elle Brec

Fashion Writer elle@golffashionweekly.com

Sales & Marketing

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From the Editor

There Is Greatness In This Game

yet he makes them look routine.

I often find myself completely enthralled with the level of talent and the overall ability of PGA Tour golfers. It is almost unimaginable how one player could have possibly practiced the myriad of shots needed to win on any given week on the tour. For that matter it is almost always the player with the most imagination and creativity in his game that comes up winning more often than not, week in and week out. I have watched players like Phil Mickelson execute shots that for mere mortals seem almost humanly impossible to pull off,

What happens every week on the PGA Tour happens far less in the ranks of amateur golfers, but we have all seen our share of miracle shots pulled off by players of all talent levels. I was recently playing golf with a 15-handicap player who landed his second shot on a par 4 imbedded into the face of a bunker with a 12-inch lip overhanging it. After reviewing the buried ball he said, I think I can explode it out and hit is straight up the air and it will hit the down-slope of the fringe and roll up near the hole. I looked at him in wonderment and said with lots of doubt in my voice, fine. What happened next is one of those things in golf that always amazes me.

He not only executed the shot to perfection just the way he visualized it but it also went in the hole for the birdie. I shook my head and scratched the top of my head and walked away completely baffled.

The more I think about shots like this I have seen in golf the more I realize that anyone who plays the game lives for that same moment of greatness, that perfect shot that the game in all its glory can grant to anyone at anytime. When you see shots like these in golf and put them in prospective it really becomes even more amazing. The fact is that a 15-handicap player who holes out an impossible bunker shot buried on the lip for a birdie is a far better golf shot than any shot Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson could ever pull off. And yes the proverbial bucket of balls challenge to do it again, is not even worth mentioning. The reality is we are more likely to see the greatest shots in golf outside the PGA Tour on any given Sunday, and fail to recognize it.

All The Best,

Timothy R. Branco Editor/ Publisher

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New England Golf Monthly

Travel

19

16

Matt Monagan / Anguilla Golf

18

Couple of Travelers / Montreal

Fashion & Style 10

Elle Brec / The Fashion Leaderboard

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Elle Brec / Ahead Golf

Mid – Atlantic Golf Guide 20

Katharine Dyson / Mid – Atlantic Golf

CElebrity Golfers

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52

Leigh McKay / Jan Stephenson

On The Tours 56

Steve Riggs / Team New England on The Tours

Equipment Reviews

Contents

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64

Ed Travis / Balls & Gloves

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2014 Deutsche Bank Championship

Fashion Leaderboard From muted earth tones to bold colors of red and blue, classic colors of New England were represented in the players’ attire for the Labor Day Weekend Deutsche Bank Championship, the New England PGA stop at the TPC Boston in Norton, MA. See the top players up close in person, it is a great place to spend a day or weekend with people who have a passion for golf and newcomers to the game alike.

by Elle Brec 1. Keegan Bradley Looking sharp from red Tommy Hilfiger pants with mini black and white striped Tommy shirt pairing with black and white Jordan cleats with red soles. For the final round on Monday the red Tommy polo with a perfect shade of white khaki the red Jordan cleats looked unbelievably fresh. His skills and apparel inspire an entire younger generation of golfers and sneaker heads to follow him on the course, not tomention at the Ryder Cup as Tom Watson’s number one captain’s pick.

2. Chris Kirk Congratulations to Chris Kirk wearing Travis Mathew with the biggest win of his career taking home the Deutsche Bank Title putting him in first place of the coveted FedEx Cup standings.

The Travis Mathew Salmon polo with gray collar and gray matching pants is perfect for the guy who prefers a matte or heather gray style over bright, bold colors. The high quality of fabrics from Travis Mathew makes their shirts extremely soft and their pants have a nice drape.

3. Rickie Fowler Stayed true to his tradition of wearing PUMA COBRA orange on the final day of the tournament, and Rickie looked fantastic. With an orange hat, white polo, orange pants with white cleats with orange trim, he didn’t go overboard. The retro PUMA logo on his flat brim is cool and we think fans want big cat logos. Rickie has been playing amazing this year and we along with a large young fan base always root for him to win a major!

4. Billy Horschel Has come a long way since his Octopus pants, and played awesome throughout the Championship in his Ralph Lauren RLX apparel. The cool color of his pants on the final round was bold, in some light they appeared blue and other light purple. Pairing function and fashion his Footjoy cleats are the $310 FJ ICON Shield Tip laser cut genuine calfskin leather with dual OptiFlex™ technology, Torque bar, and Stinger™ cleats by CHAMP®.

5. Hunter Mahan Deserves a top spot on the leaderboard with his aqua blue Under Armour polo and white pants, perfect hues to let everyone know summer isn’t over yet! He always switches it up, mixing bright colors with muted ones like gray, wearing his signature slate blue polo in the first round. His cleats are the Footjoy D.N.A. in black. His win at the Barclays last week and strong play throughout the Deutsche Bank Championship secured him a spot as Tom Watson’s Ryder Cup pick.

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6. Jordan Speith Looked great with the Under Armour dark blue polo with light green stripes and white pants and gray polo with royalblue color blocking. His signature green shirt, usually a neon tone was a really classy sea green/mint paired with navy blue pants fitting for New England summer. At only 21 years old, he is youngest Rookie of the Year has been playing amazing this year with 9 out of 10 top finishes on the tour and a spot on the Ryder Cup team.

7. Adam Scott He may not be the flashiest player on the tour but his hot, understated style in Uniqlo apparel with colors like evergreen, navy, and red gives him the credentials for a leaderboard position. His cleats are the state of the art Footjoy D.N.A. DryJoys made from a supple, lightweight and durable leather called ChromoSkin paired with a NitroThin™ TPU outsole3D, and a FoamCollar™ molds to the ankle for unsurpassed support, comfort and fit.

8. Rory McIlroy In Nike Red shirt paired with white pants on Saturday and a light royal blue shirt with white pants on Sunday. However, for the final round he wore a gray and black striped polo with a thin red stripe and royal blue sleeves with black pants, a really ugly choice the reason he did not make it to the top of the list. His cleats are the new top of the line Lunar Nike technology with an unbelievably comfortable footbed.

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9. Jason Day Pulled off the popular red polo and white pant look better than most in his Adidas apparel. The deep violet purple shade is one that players usually are not brave enough to wear but it is a great color for the summer to fall transition. He glided across thelinks without being weighed down in his adiZero pants and cleats.

10. Bubba Watson Wearing a cool cobalt Oakley polo with a unique design, as most players’ polos have been plain throughout the tournament. We loved the way it looked against his pink driver and paired with off white pants. Oakley had been coming out with some funky designs over the past year trying to become a PUMA COBRA but we’re glad they are toning it down a bit.

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Good Looks on the Course //

by Elle Brec

Driving Forewood AHEAD

With the recent unveiling of AHEAD and Kate Lord 2015 Spring Line at the PGA Show in Las Vegas, the innovative company is celebrating their 20th anniversary! Founded in 1995, AHEAD is a multi-dimensional brand with a proven track record of success distributing headwear, apparel, and accessories to the green grass, resort, and corporate markets. They can even provide custom clean modern architectural fixtures and displays for their products to pro shops created by their own in house woodshop. Golf legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus both endorsed the outstanding quality of AHEAD from the start, and now AHEAD and Kate Lord are in 5,000 green grass and resort shops throughout the world. The perfect lines on the King’s Umbrella and famed the Golden Bear are a true testament to the high quality of their work.

They make it extremely easy for your tournament or club by providing everything in-house, from quality apparel to embroidery and accessories. Whether vintage printed label or woven appliqué label is needed, a primary or secondary logo treatment, or on site personalization embroidery, they are all key parts of the AHEAD offering. Combine customizable logos on neces-

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sary accessories like gloves, ball markers, or divot tools with a hat and matching shirt for a classy gift package.

Coordinated pieces from each collection offer amazing merchandising options so golfers can purchase a complete head to toe matching outfit. If you’ve attended a PGA event and bought a hat or shirt, chances are the brand

name is Ahead or Kate Lord. Leading supplier of headwear to the USGA, PGA of America, Ryder Cup, and numerous PGA Tour events. Active players representing AHEAD headwear in 2014 are Jim Furyk and Retief Goosen on the PGA Tour, and Brittany Lincicome on the LPGA Tour and golf legend Annika Sorenstam.

New fabrics represent a new contemporary fit as well as dimension of style and performance level. Acare Arid and Dri-balance fabrics combine the best of cotton and micro polyester to make the garment perform better when it’s hot. Sof-tech is soft durable 100% cotton lasting longer because easy care and better wash features, therefore they feel better for the entire life of the garment.

Weather fabrics especially made for golf to keep you warm and dry in any climate including waterproof, seam-sealed rain jack and pant, plus exciting new line of windshirts, and vests in a variety of classic styles.

Aheadweb.com

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By Matt Monagan

Get Away From it All in Anguilla

It didn’t fully hit me until I stopped for lunch at the turn. CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa’s Greg Norman-designed course stretched out in front of me, running into the warm Caribbean Sea and the mountainous St. Maarten beyond.

“We’re really all by ourselves out here,” I said to the pro.

“Welcome to Anguilla,” he said.

Unlike many islands throughout the Caribbean, Anguilla has remained relatively untouched since its discovery in the mid-1600s. Fast food restaurants? Forget it. Giant water parks? Not here. But the British Territory, just east of Puerto Rico and four hours from America’s East Coast, does have spectacular beaches, an otherworldly respite and a friendly hospitality that will ease any stress you had before coming to the island. And if you stay at CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa, you’ll get the most of

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the experience.

Once you’ve checked in, grab an earlymorning tee time at the course. It’s the only one on the island and the only one you need. The 18-holer plays 7,063 yards from the black tees, challenging golfers with deep fairway bunkers, salt marshes and ocean streams. No. 1, a 390foot par 4, greets visitors like a dream – mixing a wide fairway and two-tiered green with the flawless Caribbean Sea behind. And if you’re fan of tropical vegetation (who isn’t?), Greg Norman’s course doesn’t shy away from it. Seagrape trees, palms and mangroves dot the entire course, coming into play most prominently on the 440yard 16th and the uphill 18th. The toughest holes are probably the par-4 17th and par-3 15th – threatening players with lagoons, bunker-happy greens and windy tee boxes.

But along with having its difficulties, there’s a serenity and beauty you can feel on almost every hole at CuisinArt. No. 10 probably epitomizes this the most. The 590-yard par 5 plummets down toward a fairway-crossing lagoon, making you second guess your second and third shots. An undulating green sits a pitching wedge’s length away, daring players to fall for its front-side bunkers. But before you shoot for the flag, look to your right. Take in the colors of the ocean and St. Maarten rising majestically into the sky. It might be your best view of the trip/year.

OK, now go put the ball in the hole.

The quiet and calm doesn’t end after you step off the last green. Head back to the resort and check out the Venus Spa. Couples massages, golf-tailored treatments and Caribbean stone techniques are all used at the award-winning establishment. Afterwards, have some lunch by the pool at Café Mediterraneo. Buffet options with fresh fruit salads and smoothies are readily available. Speaking of drinks, it’s about time you had a strong one. If you have more time during the afternoon, I’d recommend going to Sandy Island. It’s a tiny spot a few miles out in the ocean that you can reach by taxi-to-ferry from CuisinArt. The rum punch and freshly-caught mahi mahi (seriously, I think they caught it right after we ordered it) is worth the trip.

If you decide to stay on property, make your way along the wading pools to the Beach Bar and Grille. Enjoy a minty mojito made using fresh vegetables from the resort’s hydroponic farm (the only one in the Caribbean) and gaze out across the open ocean. Have another drink.

Getting hungry again? Good.

There are three main options to choose from for dinner. Executive Chef Jasper Schneider lends his hand to the AAA Four Diamond Le Bistro Santorini and Tokyo Bay offers an unbelievably authentic Japanese experience. But my choice would have to be back up by the golf course at Italia. Giant white pillars rise up along the outside of the restaurant, corralled by billowing white curtains. Family-style dishes like fried eggplant parmesan (again, fresh from the farm), cherry tomato salad and meatballs al forno will bring out your inner Italian, even if you’re not from that part of the world. Choose your wine carefully – there are more than 3,600 in the resort’s wine cellar – and save some room for Italia’s tiramisu. It’s created by the head chef who hails from the foothills of Palermo. It’s delicious.

Oh, and look off the balcony, there’s No. 18 – still calm, still dignified, still waiting for somebody to come and play it. Maybe you’ll stay another day.

Maybe you’ll never leave …

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Couple of Travelers //

by Alice and Danny Scott

Montreal

has it all!

The island metropolis of Montreal, on the St. Lawrence River, has it all! An Olympic and Worlds Fair venue, this French city boasts the largest display of historic buildings, in North America with many museums and 1173 parks where picnics on the grass are a common scene. The Intercontinental Montreal is a chic boutique hotel for rest between adventures. Wake up to their maple butter crepes and get moving. Downstairs the underground network links 12 hotels between city sites with shopping along the way - fantastic during inclement weather. We chose sunny sidewalks above. Walk or bike to the plazas and riverside where you can board an AML Cruise. Enjoy a gourmet dinner and dancing under the stars on board or dine al fresco throughout the city with no shortage of entertainment. We enjoyed beautifully grilled walleye on the patio of Brasserie T while watching a human slinky show. A nun staggered past with a smoke and flask. A Cyrano de Bergerac costumed couple peddled by on their tandem bike, and a male, female and midget keystone cops interacted with pedestrians. Home to the Cirque du Soleil, “Just for Laughs� was a summer festival but could also be the city’s byline. A block dedicated to games was filled with families, friends and visitors competing on unfamiliar boards.

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For the game of golf, the Club de Golf de l’Île de Montréal is a fabulous public facility. The modern clubhouse has a lookout tower, full pro shop, and indoor/ outdoor Irish Pub facing a waterfall. Irish architect Pat Ruddy created two distinct courses where starters are as welcoming as the Irish across the pond. The Island course has floral fantasy touches among waterways and an island green. The Ireland course mirrors true Irish links minus the ocean and sheep. Don’t be sheepish on your approach shots. It is often wise to add a club. Avoid the fairway bunkers and wispy mounds of fescue and beware the subtle breaks when putting. Both are well cared for and a golfer’s treat in Montreal. www.cgimgolf.com The 2014 Canadian Open took place at The Royal Montreal Golf Club with the Monday qualifier across the street at Club de Golf St. Raphael on the Blue, a parkland style course.

Challenges crescendo up to the star finishing holes. The beauty of water lilies and framing maples contrast the extreme difficulty of #17’s Par 3 at 185 yards. As the wind blows fiercely, the full carry to green seems unfathomable.

On 18’s long par 5, a blind tee shot must make the corner of the slight dogleg right. Bunkers guarding the back of the green are a sanctuary compared to the lake that swallows any short knocks.

Play safe and get close to the water on the second shot for a nice approach in regulation. The majestic clubhouse ensures a great closing experience. www.golfstraphael.ca Post card views are on every corner of Montreal’s nineteen districts. Drive the Formula One track,

imagining a speed of 378 kph or head to the northern beacon – Mount Royal for a hike where Paul Chomedy de Mainonneuve, the city’s founder fulfilled his vow to the Virgin Mary by erecting the first cross on Mount Royal in 1643 when his prayers to save the city from flooding were answered.

For new heights, ascend an hour north to The Fairmont Tremblant. Your room view is a circus of outdoor activities. Bungee jumping and ski lifts run year round, with summer go carts sledding down the mountain above the alpine village of shops and restaurants, none more pleasing than Le Shack, catering to all patrons and palettes. Two Tremblant courses epitomize mountain golf. Le Geant is a rugged, rigorous and really fun run. Don’t even think about walking it but the elevation extremes are beautiful when riding. Le Diable has vast waste bunkers that might seem like purgatory but the view is heavenly, marked by deep blue skies, tall pines’ crunchy cones and brisk mountain air. The staff and maintenance crew are amazing.

Relax after golf at the Scandinave Spa, nestled in the woods on the mountain of Tremblant.

Hot and cold-water features, including the Diable River and rest areas are naturally tucked into the forest, expansive, yet intimate and tranquil.

Views take your breath away and then magically give it back with a harmonic rhythm.

Enjoy the mosaic of international cultures and horticulture of Montreal and then, retreat to Mont Tremblant for the all around optimal golf vacation. www.tourisme-montreal.org www.tremblant.ca

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THE PERFECT LIFE //

by Katherine Dyson

Bring Summer Back with Mid Atlantic Golf

Extending the golf season by playing in the Mid-Atlantic States The air is turning nippy so what are golfers to do? Just look south to the milder MidAtlantic states like New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C., Virginia and West Virginia. These states are also great places to take along the non-golfers in your world with plenty to do off the course. With a richly endowed landscape from mountains to beaches; along with rolling meadows, lakes and valleys, the Mid-Atlantic States beckon.

NEW JERSEY

Atlantic City on New Jersey’s south shore, combines a high-rise casino hotel hub with a sun-kissed coastal area crowned by an historic Boardwalk.

In the area find more than 20 golf courses including the granddaddy of them all, the Atlantic City Country Club designed by William Flynn in 1897 and updated by Tom Doak in 2000 who retained the roll-up greens, basic routing and character.

The Bay Course at Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club is classic Donald Ross (1914): basically flat with thick rough and heavy bunkering around the crowned greens. Stretching out to the marshes and Reeds Bay with views of the Atlantic City Skyline, it has few trees but plenty of snarly tall grasses.

Also tee up at Seaview’s The Pines track by Howard Toomey and William Flynn, dating from 1929.

The Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Cologne, rolls over gently undulating terrain with fairways cut through native pinelands. Opening in 1993, it’s one of the more scenic tracks in the area and was

selected by The Press of Atlantic City, Casino Connection Magazine, and numerous other publications as the best 18-hole course on the Jersey Shore.

The open treeless fairways of Twisted Dune Golf Club in Egg Harbor Township should be a welcome

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feature for non-target golfers.

The course has some surprising elevation changes thanks to Archie Struthers, course architect, who pushed, shoved and dug a lot of earth— about 2 million cubic yards— to create the vast waste bunkers and rugged dunes that define the fairways, some rising to 40 feet.

Among the top Jersey Shore courses, Ballamor Golf Club, also in Egg Harbor, goes the more traditional route with manicured grounds, stonewalls and classic bunkering. Designed by Brian Ault, Dan Schlegel and Tom Clark (2001), it has wide-open fairways plus a peaceful setting unmarred by houses. Ballamor has tall trees, ponds to carry and hills to climb, but the generous landing and bailout areas make it quite possible to play a round without losing a ball.

Several golf packages are available from a number of companies including playacgolf.com

VIRGINIA

Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, Virginia With 11,000 acres of valleys and mountains, Wintergreen is a four-season playground in the Blue Ridge Mountains about three hours from Washington. Here in the Rockfish Valley you can play Rees Jones’ Stoney Creek’s three nines (Tuckahoe, Monocan and Shamokin) or you can tee off from the top of the mountain on Devil’s Knob Golf course, a spectacular Ellis Maples-designed track with plunging elevations and incredible views. In the winter ski in the morning then play golf in the afternoon.

Wintergreen’s “Stay One, Play Two ”includes two rounds of golf with a cart, mountain resort accommodations, use of practice facilities, club storage, and access to the Aquatics & Fitness Center priced from $130; replay rate, $35.

The Club at Viniterra, New Kent The Club at Viniterra near Richmond unrolls a winning combo of wine and golf on a scenic hilly Rees Jones course.

Viniterra is fair but long stretching to 7,700 yards but with seven tee boxes, you can have a great day of golf. Take time to stop and sample the wines in

the handsome Winery but a few steps away from the pro shop.

Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg Kingsmill has three championship golf courses: The River designed by Pete Dye; the scenic Woods Course, a solid Curtis Strange/Tom Clark layout; and the Arnold Palmer/ Ed Seay Plantation Course; plus the par 3, nine hole Bray Course. As you play note the remains of historic buildings and sites that have been preserved here and there.

Kingsmill’s “Unlimited Golf Package” from $219 per person, per night includes unlimited golf on River or Plantation with a cart, accommodations, use of sports facilities and pools and complimentary transportation to Colonial Williamsburg and Busch gardens. A “Foursomes Golf Package” from $287.50 is also available.

Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia Play exceptional courses at The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club’s Gold and Green courses. yet still have fascinating things to do and see for the nongolfers in your group at Colonial Williamsburg, a rich repository of American history. Play Gold designed by Robert Trent Jones in 1963 and Green Course designed by Rees Jones, a more forgiving track. Also try the nine-hole executive Spotswood Course, a fun play for everyone.

After golf work out those kinks with a treatment at the Spa of Colonial Williamsburg or just as in the 18th century, when the movers and shakers of their time habitually headed to local watering holes like the Kings Arms Tavern to exchange all the latest news and gossip, so you too can partake in the Tavern’s prepared feasts while costumed balladeers entertain.

The “Golden Horseshoe Golf Package” includes lodging, and a round of golf priced from $165 per night with a two-night minimum.

Primland, Dan Riding along a high plateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland is a paradise for those who love luxury and outdoors pursuits like golf, fishing, hunting, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking along with high tech stargazing and even geo-catching. When British golf course designer, Donald Steel first saw the landscape he said, “It was wildly exciting. How

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 21

many architects have a chance to work with land like this?” At Primland each hole is a gem yet nothing is ‘tricked up.’ “I hate gimmicky things,” says Steel adding, “Not the least of golf’s attributes is that it affords us access to some of the most beautiful place on earth.” Primland is such a place.

Bunk into your high-comfort digs in the Lodge, Fairway Cottages, Mountain Homes or cliff-hugging tree houses where your sporting playground adds up to about 200 acres per guest.

The “Pinnacles Golf Package” from $595 includes Lodge accommodations, lunch and dinner daily, plus a round of golf with a cart. The “Highland Package” gives you accommodations in a spacious Mountain Home, golf with a cart, range balls, breakfast and dinner from about $408 per person when four are sharing.

Prince William County is in theory about a half hour from Washington D.C. depending on traffic.

Classic horse country, here pines and oaks grow tall and the terrain climbs up and down over hills, a perfect landscape for courses like Forest Greens Golf Club, in Triangle. Designed by Clyde Johnston (1996), it is a fair course without a whole lot of hidden treachery.

Old Hickory Golf Club, a semi-private club with a sense of the well-heeled features Remington-style bronze sculptures throughout the gracious turn-ofthe-century clubhouse and enormous moose and elk heads hanging on the wall— clubby indeed.

Located near the Occoquan Reservoir, Old Hickory is one of the prettiest semi-private parkland-style tracks in the region.

Stonewall Golf Club designed by Tom Jackson set against a backdrop of the Bull Run Mountains and Lake Manassas, marches across a rolling terrain that is part of the famed “Carolina Trail, “ a route once used during the Civil War. While Stonewall is one of the most expensive daily fee courses in the county, golfers buying into their Patriot Club get reduced green fees.

General’s Ridge Golf Course at 6,651 yards may be relatively short, but playing here is more like a romp on the wild side. The course careens up and down hills, across ravines and ponds, through woods and onto slippery greens like the diabolical #16 arguably the toughest hole in Northern Virginia.

It’s a course where you don’t get to think where you want to go but where you don’t want to go.

Browse the outlets at Potomac Mills sample wines at The Winery at LaGrange and explore the Manassas National Battlefield Park and the Museum of the Marine Corps Then head to Old Town Manassas and stop at Mackey’s American Pub or Okra’s Louisiana Bistro known for southern fare like shrimp and grits.

WEST VIRGINIA

The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs Long the bastion of the legendary “Slammin’” Sam Snead, The Greenbrier’s Old White TPC, venue for The Greenbriar Classic, along with The Greenbrier and The Meadows courses are set on 6,500 acres in the Alleghany Mountains. Greenbrier guests enjoy a fabulous Spa, pools, elegant guest-only casino and the historic “Bunker.” The Greenbrier offers countless activities like Laser Tag, carriage rides, whitewater rafting, off-road adventures and lots of other events and entertainment.

The “Unlimited Golf Package” gives you unlimited golf on The Greenbrier and The Meadows, accommodations, access to practice facilities and locker rooms and no cart fees for replay rounds starting at $237.50 per person. Play Old White TPC for a surcharge. And for a truly unique golf experience play Oakhurst Links. Dating from 1884 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, you use hickory clubs, play gutta-percha balls and wear period attire. ($25 surcharge on the “Unlimited Golf Package.”)

Glade Springs Resort, Daniels Spread over 4,100 acres, Glade Springs Resort is home to three solid tracks, The Cobb, Stonehaven and Woodhaven.

As the heavy-duty track of the three, Cobb is a big, broad-shouldered classic track built in 1972

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and featuring behemoth bump and run greens, elevated tees and rolling terrain and ponds. Here recreational facilities are big time with swimming pools, the Spa Orange and a leisure center housing 10 bowling alleys, tennis and racquet ball courts and theater while outdoors there is hiking, fishing, caving, biking and Equestrian Center.

The “Unlimited Golf Package” from $118 includes accommodations, breakfast, unlimited golf with cart, range balls, and club cleaning and storage, local and state taxes, resort fee and tennis.

MARYLAND

ing through marshes and along water with many forced carries while its older sibling, Seaside, is a tad shorter at 6,584 yards with wide fairways and a forested back nine.

Glenriddle Golf Club has two stalwart tracks, Man O’ War, a links-style layout playing more than 7,000 yards from the tips with double fairways, large greens, pot bunkers and dunes and War Admiral, short but tough, a Weiman/Furyk design. On the Man O’War 6th, note the original rusted racetrack starting gate to the right of the green.

Several golf packages geared to golfers with hotel or condo accommodations are available in the Ocean City area. For example the Harrison Group offers a Grand Slam Package with two nights lodging, three rounds of golf, two breakfasts and a steak dinner at River Run with prices typically from the $200 range. tee1off.com; Oceancitygolf.com

DELAWARE

Ocean City Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, Ocean City has more than 20 courses, 10 miles of white sandy beaches, an awesome boardwalk, tons of activities and great values to top it off.

Courses are for the most part, inland but views of the city and bay from many of the fairways lend a sense of being on the ocean.

The Links at Lighthouse Sound, an Arthur Hills blend of modern, classic and links-style reveals stunning water views. A unique feature of this track is the 1,500 foot-long bridge linking holes eight and nine.

Managed by Ruark Golf, Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links, a strong collaboration between Pete and P.B. Dye, abuts Sinepuxent Bay and looks out to Assateague Island, home to a herd of wild horses. Kind to all levels of golfers, on Rum Pointe most holes have water views, large greens and pesky bunkers.

Bear Trap Dunes in Ocean View has 27 holes: Black Bear, Kodiak and Grizzly. Black Bear has the most gravitas, but all of these Troon-managed tracks score points for their striking links-style design combining wavy sea grasses drifting into striking sand dunes.

Owned by the Town of Ocean City, Eagles Landing is a solid Hurdzan and Fry track playing 7,000 yards from the tips and remaining true to its name, is the first certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in Maryland playing along and over water and marshes.

The pair of fine courses at Ocean City Golf Club includes the Newport Bay course thread-

Bayside Resort Golf Club, Fenwick Island Set on 888 acres along Assawoman Bay, Bayside Resort Golf Club features Delaware’s first Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course with magnificent views along the water and tall pines. Managed by Troon, Bayside gives golfers three different playing experiences: open wide fairways; tighter routes through forests; and holes through marshlands.

Family friendly, juniors 15 and under play free after 3 p.m. plus get to use complimentary clubs.

Baywood Greens, Long Neck Running along the coast, Baywood Greens Golf Course, designed

by Bill Love and completed by Larry Dewitt and owner/developer Rob Tunnell is planted with more than 200,000 flowers, shrubs and trees along with acres of wild flowers. With three nines, Woodside, Duneside and Waterside, eight timbered bridges and 27 acres of ponds and tunnels the course was ranked first by Golf Digest for “Best in State” (20112012) and has been called “Augusta of the North.”

The “Drive & Dine” plan gives you golf and dinner from $110 per person and a “Nine & Dine” starts at $55.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 2313

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CAN THERE BE such a thing as too much of a good thing? Potential visitors to the beautiful barrier island of Ocean City, Maryland, might be asking themselves just that as they ponder the seemingly endless array of great golf courses found here. The roster includes more than 17 championship layouts, with designs from top architects including Jack Nicklaus, Pete and P.B. Dye, Arthur Hills and Dr. Michael Hurdzan.

Ocean City’s superb course options include Bayside Resort Golf Club, Baywood Greens, Bear Trap Dunes, Eagle’s Landing, Glen Riddle Golf Club’s Man O’War and War Admiral layouts, Heritage Shores Club, Links at Lighthouse Sound Golf Club, Nutters Crossing Golf Club, Ocean City Golf Club, Ocean Pines

Golf and Country Club, Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links and The Bay Club.

Ocean City Golf Getaway is pleased to provide golfers with one-stop, hassle-free shopping for your golf vacation. OceanCityGolf.com simplifies your choices and offers a variety of all-inclusive service-oriented packages with hotels, golf package companies, golf schools and courses, condominiums, restaurants and entertainment.

Like your best golfing buddy, Oceancitygolf.com is there whenever needed. When you’re so excited trying to decide which 36 holes to tackle on Day One that you can’t sleep, it’s there. When you’re at work, figuring out the perfect time to make your escape, it’s there.

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www.OceanCityGolf.com (800) 4-OC-GOLF

At OceanCityGolf.com, you can plan and book your next golf getaway to Ocean City, Maryland 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With 17 championship courses designed by the legends of the game, great golf is just the beginning.

Add miles of beach and boardwalk, exciting nightlife and excellent dining, Ocean City, MD is the ultimate golf getaway. Book your golf trip today by visiting OceanCityGolf.com or call (800) 4-OC-GOLF.

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PAWTUCKET

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The Best Membership Deal in Rhode Island “Fast Greens, Fast Rounds, Fast Friends” Golfers can join now through April for just one month’s dues with a commitment to join for the 2015-2016 golf season.

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Three Round Trial Membership – Only $199 Give our wonderful course the good ole three round try and enjoy use of the clubhouse and dining room each time you play. Best part is if you choose to join under any of our membership categories the cost of the trial membership will be deducted from your 1st months bill.

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Fall River Country Club

Implements the “Tee It Forward”

Initiative to Attract New Members

Fall River CC has implemented the “Tee It Forward” initiative by placing an additional set of of tee markers (white) on each hole to provide more manageable distance for junior, senior and female golfers. The

PGA advocated this initiative a few years ago to help “Grow the Game” by making it more fun, decrease playing time, recoup older players who have left the game and attract female and junior golfers.

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Allendale Country Club 1047 Allen St. North Dartmouth, 02747

508-992-8682 | AllendaleCC.net September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 37

Fall In Love with the Game All Over Again

By John Molori

Ponkapoag & Leo J.Martin Golf Courses

Restoring Golf in the Commonweath Joe Leary played his first-ever round of golf at Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton, MA. Now, at age 52, the director of golf operations for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), is overseeing a multi-million dollar project to send Ponkapoag, as well as Weston’s Leo J. Martin course, back to the future. “Ponkapoag was designed by the legendary Don Ross in 1925 and construction began in 1930,” Leary explains. “It is a classic Ross course, where you can step off the green right to a tee box. PGA pros played here in the 1940s and ‘50s because there were no throwaway holes. “The restoration of course #1 has been a delicate balance of historic restoration and infrastructure modernization for 21st century maintenance practices” said Nick Gove, Boston Region Director for DCR

Insufficient funding and staffing levels sent the course into disrepair and abandonment. On Course 1, holes 3-8 and 11-13 have been closed for 11 years. Leary predicts those holes will reopen for play in the fall of 2015.

The restoration contract for course #1 at Ponkapoag was awarded to NMP Golf Construction, a company out of Williston, VT. “They were excited to take on the challenge because the golf business is down,” relates Leary. “No one is building new courses or renovating old ones.

We’ve installed a new irrigation system on Course 1. Ponkapoag has long offered some of the most reasonable prices for all levels of local golfers. Will the upgrades change this?

Leary responds, “Ponkapoag will always be a place where people can play a great course

40 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | September 2014

at a great price.” If Leary is the commander in chief of this master plan, then Mark Brady is his field general. Brady is the director of golf course maintenance for the DCR. At age 39, he has been in the course maintenance game since his teens with stops at Pleasant Valley, Whitinsville, Green Hill, and Burning Tree in Maryland. “I walked Ponkapoag for the first time when it was covered with an inch of snow, and I thought the layout was unbelievable,” says Brady, who started at Ponkapoag in 2010. “A couple months later, I walked the course again, and thought it was unbelievably horrible. The tees were bare. The bunkers were filled with overgrown weeds. There were bare spots on the greens and tons of rocks.” Brady immersed himself in rebuilding the course and had a bit of help from a higher power. He relates, “Mother Nature gave us two incredible storms, and the course was flooded to the max. This allowed me to see all the drainage issues. “That summer, we had an awful drought, and I lost every blade of grass out there except for the greens. It was depressing, but because there was no grass to cut, I was able to focus on the bunkers and irrigation. The grass amazingly grew back on its own that fall.” As the man on the frontlines of Ponkapoag’s renewal, Brady is understandably excited. “We are the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and no sport combines nature and man’s love

of sport better than golf. Municipal courses are the foundation of this game.”

“We want to be a low cost provider of ac-

cessible golf opportunities in Massachusetts.

The restoration of course #1 at Ponkapoag will provide an affordable, high quality golf experience on a historic layout,” said Nick Gove.

Molori Unplugged appears regularly in New EnglandGolf Monthly. Like John Molori on Facebook,Twitter @MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@aol.com.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 41

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NEGM Pro-Am at Valley CC - Warwick RI

Carbone Wins 3rd Annual NEGM Pro-Am at Valley Country Club presented by Amica Insurance Mike Carbone, a Cape Cod native and former URI menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golf Team standout shot a 5 under par 67 on an extremely difficult Valley Country Club in Warwick, RI to claim the $5000 1st place check. The event also raised $1500 for the John P. Burke Scholarship Fund. Thank you to all of the prize sponsors, the members and staff at Valley Country Club. For the complete results and photo gallery please visit www.mynegm.com/valleyproam

Clockwise left to right: Mike Carbone is presented the first place check. Maury Davitt is presented the donation to the John P. Burke Fund. Ricky Stimets is presented the Pro Closest to the Pin check. Team Alberigo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2014 Pro-Am Champions. Valley CC Members watch the Pro Closest to the Pin.

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SEE FOR YOURSELF WHY VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB IS RANKED ONE OF THE TOP 25 PRIVATE COURSES IN Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net NEW ENGLAND AND DISCOVER YOUR OPPORTUNITIES THIS SEPTEMBER

Play 18 holes with cart and partake in a short membership presentation for only $50 per person | Tuesdays September 16th, 23rd, or 30th Call (401) 821-1115 ext. 2 to schedule your Tee Time

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Call (401) 821-1115 or visit us at ValleyCountryClub.net 251 New London Ave, Warwick, RI 02886

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 45

Molori Unplugged //

by John Molori

Boston media has great taste in main courses There is a slice of glamour to the life of a sports reporter, hobnobbing with famous athletes, traveling the world, and of course, press credentials.

For many media golfers, however, these perks are surpassed by the joy of playing some great golf courses. Some Boston media stars share a few of their favorite hacking havens.

I love Wannamoisett and the challenge of those slick greens,” says Patriots public address announcer and GoLocalProv. com personality John Rooke.

“For someone like me who doesn’t hit it a ton, I feel like I can compete, even if the course packs a wallop. I also enjoy Quidnessett, Potowomut, Warwick, Cranston and Alpine.”

While Rooke favors some great Rhode Island courses, W C V B - T V sportscasting legend Mike Lynch brings it back to Massachusetts. “I still consider Tedesco my home course because I caddied there, but I love Salem, Kernwood, and Belmont. I loved playing Brookline because I am a student of the history of the game. I imagined being on the 17th hole where Francis Ouimet played.”

ESPN sportscaster Sean McDonough is a member at Boston Golf Club (BGC) in Hingham, MA, but has also experienced some national treasures. He relates, “BGC is such a

great course.

Tom Brady, Sr. played there and told me it was one of the top 3 courses he has ever played in the world.

“When CBS was trying to hire me fulltime, they took me to Augusta. I’ve played Pine Valley and Pebble Beach, but my favorite has to be Oakmont.

It is a world class course, but there is a regular-guy feel to it.”

Comcast SportsNet Celtics’ announcer Mike Gorman has been part of the Boston sports scene for decades, but his golf love remains in the Empire State. “I belong to Salem Golf Course in New York. There are no pools, no tennis courts. It is an old fashioned golf course. The pro shop is out of the 1950s.

“I had a chance to play Balthazar. It’s like a cathedral. You have to take a caddy who wears a white jump suit. After two holes, the caddy will tell you what club you should use.”

Similarly, 7NBC’s Joe Amorosino is a Cape Cod golf guy from his early days on the links. He relates, “Dennis Pines was a narrow, tree-lined course, not too forgiving but very fair. Hyannis Golf Club was terrific. A couple of amateur golfers, the late Fordie Pitts and Joe Keller, bought the course and made it more challenging.

There was also the Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds

46 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | September 2014

Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net

in Marstons Mills. It was a tough course with a lot of play, very well-manicured.”

Amorosino’s WBZ-TV counterpart Dan Roche has quenched his golf thirst locally and otherwise. “My favorite course ever is The Country Club in Brookline.

I have been fortunate enough to play in several media events there. That course just oozes history. I loved playing Torrey

Pines, but I was paying too much attention to the views of the ocean.

“I also played Medina the day after Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia dueled down the stretch at the 1999 PGA Championship. It was so hard due to the lengthy rough and fast greens.”

Roche’s WBZ colleague and Patriots Football Weekly editor Paul Perillo has quenched his golf passion on some excellent area courses.

“Green Meadow was my favorite,” he relates.

“But there are so many others like Unicorn Golf Club in Stoneham, Cedar Glen Golf Course in Saugus, or any of the courses in Lynnfield.

“Ballymeade (Falmouth) is great, as is Pinehills in Plymouth. I did play twice at The Country Club in Brookline, and that was probably the best I’ve ever experienced.”

John Molori is the co-author of “The Cracker Jack Collection: Baseball’s Prized Players.” Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter @MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@aol.com

Gizmos & Gadgets Must Have Golf Accessories Groove Caddy

The Groove Caddy was voted “Best New Product of the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show”. It Is the NEW, innovative way for golfers to clean their clubs. The Groove Caddy is handheld, with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and custom non-abrasive nylon bristles. The Groove Caddy will help golfers improve their performance, accuracy, distance and club maintenance. Each unit includes a: USB cable, wall charger, spray bottle and carrying pouch that easily stores in the golf bag.The Groove Caddy’s low cost makes it the perfect gift for any golfer and perfect for retailers and greengrass pro shops. Get in the Groove with Groove Caddy! #1 Golf Club Cleaner TM $29.95 groovecaddy.com

MyBallStamp

Never play the wrong ball again with the MyBallStamp golf ball stamp. The MyBallStamp is a high quality advanced rubber stamp that imprints a sharp image on the golf ball. It is fully customizable and can be made with a logo or text in a choice of five colors.

The stamp is pre-inked for thousands of impressions with a highly durable and quickly drying ink that stays on the ball regardless whether you are in the green, the rough, or in the water. You can easily customize your stamp on our easy to use website on www. myballstamp.com. Please use promo code NEGOLF to receive 10% OFF.

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The Book Marker

Never lose a ball marker again! The Book Marker is the only way to keep your favorite ball markers organized in a neat and convenient fashion! It allows you to easily store over 20 ball markers, protecting them from the clutter of your golf bag. The product comes in three colors and is fully customizable with your logo and initials! The Book Marker is the perfect gift for you or the golfer in your life! Organize, Collect, Remember.

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Otterbox Resurgence Power Cases

There are two awful moments for smartphone using golfers on the links; a low battery notification from using your favorite golf app or the sound of a phone bouncing off the cart path. The Otterbox Resurgence Power Case helps to solve those problems by providing more than two-times the battery power for the iPhone 5/5s and military-rated drop protection. The case even knows to stop charging when the phone reaches a full charge saving battery for later in the clubhouse. If you have an iPhone 5 or 5s and use your phone the entire round this is a must have. Purchase at www.otterbox.com

Got Clubs? Get Extra Caddy!

Extra Caddy is the new must-have golf accessory! Perfect for when you need just a few clubs, it saves you the effort of needing to tote a full-size golf bag. Hold up to 5 clubs easily with Extra Caddy’s convenient Velcro® closure, great for the driving range or when you’re playing just a few holes. Accessories include a shoulder strap, a grip cover bag and a ball bag perfect for holding balls and tees. Order your Extra Caddy in one of 4 colors today at www.extracaddy.com

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 49

TRAINING AIDS // by Greg Sampson

Watch More Putts Fall with the

Dead Zero Putting Disk Pro Every time I speak to someone about their game they constantly talk about their swing and very rarely mention their short game. Putting in particular is the most important skill to shoot lower scores and must be practiced for hours on end to truly reach your scoring potential. With that said, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a look at the new Dead Zero Putting Disk Pro Model and determine if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a one putt or a three putt training aid!

The Claim: Like the original Dead Zero Putting Disk the pro model is smaller than the hole to increase accuracy and overall confidence. Based on research the size of the disk is designed so every putt that strikes it will fall in a regulation-sized hole. The pro model putting aid now features a bubble level so that golfers can determine the slope and read the proper fall line while practicing on the green or charting out hole locations for a competitive event.

The Test: I used the DZPD Pro at numerous courses both on the practice green and out on the course. On the practice green I first began putting at the disk in a circle at various lengths and determined my breaks using the bubble level. From there I practice lags all over the green paying close attention to the last 3 to 8 feet of break using the level as well. On the course I actually placed the disk in the hole using the

level to read slope at the hole along. I also placed it in different spots of the green stroking putts and hitting chips to the disk for future reference.

The Verdict: On the practice green I quickly learned the speed to roll my putts into the disk and also noticed that my lags were all inside 3 feet almost every time. On the course I putted better than I have all season, yes I used the disk to determine putts sometimes but for the most part I noticed that I felt as if I was going to pour every putt in the back of the hole. It was as if I was listening for the ding that the Dead Zero Putting Disk makes each time the ball strikes it. Although I was not preparing for a tournament I definitely noticed the benefit for either charting out hole locations or slopes for approach shots. One of the courses I played more than once and felt much more confident with where to land the ball on the green. In that particular round my shots were closer and my missed greens were in high percentage up and down locations.

In my book the Dead Zero Putting Disk Pro model is a must have for every golfer because we all need to make more putts and the only way to do so is through repetition to breed confidence. If I were you I would quit complaining about too many three putts and go spend the $29.95 for more one putts!

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Guest Pro Tips // By NEPGA Members

Proper Posture by Rob Baxter, PGA Segregansett Country Club One of the most overlooked and misunderstood elements of a good golf swing is proper posture in the setup. In order for a player to create proper swing mechanics they must first be in a position that allows that to happen. What I find most often is a student that has too much knee flex and not enough upper body forward tilt. This type of setup will lead a player to begin their swing too much to the inside and under the proper plane angle. This sets up a chain reaction of compensations, most often a steep, over the top start down of the club.

When getting a student to create better posture at address, I will often have them begin by keeping their knees locked and have then flex their upper body toward the ground. The player needs to monitor that their weight remains centered in their feet and not to let it shift toward their toes. Once

they have established their upper body posture, they will only need to slightly unlock their knees.

Another illustration of proper posture would be to picture a piece of string attached to the top button of your shirt with a small weight at the bottom of that string. With the correct amount of upper body tilt and minimal knee flex, the string would line up directly over your toes. This posture will now allow your shoulders to rotate on a path that will permit the club to swing on a better path on both the backswing and downswing.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 51

Celebrity Golfer //

by Leigh MacKay

Jan Stephenson When Jan Stephenson left her world Down Under in 1974 at the age of 22, she not only quickly rose to the upper echelon of the LPGA with her excellent golf game but also quickly turned the LPGA marketing world upside down with her good looks and winsome ways.

In her brilliant career, Stephenson earned 16 LPGA victories—including three majors—and 15 international victories. Stephenson was honored among GOLF Magazine’s 100 Heroes during the 1988 Centennial of Golf in America celebration; at the LPGA’s 50th Anniversary in 2000, she was recognized as one of the LPGA’s top-50 players and teachers.

In retirement, Stephenson became the first woman pro to design golf courses. She currently

NEGM: What are you doing in the wine industry?

JS: I have always enjoyed a good glass of wine, but I didn’t realize until I retired from the LPGA Tour how popular wine is among golfers.

I’m from near Hunter Valley in New South Wales, which is famous for its white wine. I took a

represents Razor Golf equipment and is now a player in the wine industry. Stephenson has also been active in charity work.

Corresponding with her stellar golf achievements, of course, has also been her status as golf’s first sex symbol, a notoriety, Stephenson says, that LPGA commissioner Ray Volpe encouraged to market professional women’s golf. Her long, curly blonde hair, makeup touches, eye-catching apparel, and striking figure made her a PR dream, but she became embroiled in controversy both among her peers and with the role of sex in sports.

Here are a few of Jan’s thoughts, and as you will soon understand, there’s a lot more to Jan Stephenson than what you can see!

course on how to judge wines and was just fascinated by the whole process so I decided to get into the business. I found a winery in Paso Robles, California, and it has been really, really fun to be involved in all aspects of the production.

My name will be on the labels, using my logo,

52 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | September 2014

Kevin Walsh, Comcast Sports Net

and I will bottle three fabulous wines: chardonnay, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon. I’ll also hit the high end with my unique Jan Stephenson Reserve. The first shipments will be in October to the big distributors and grocery stores.

NEGM: What were your most important wins?

JS: My most important win was my second Australian Open [1973 & 1977]. My mom was my caddy, and I won in a playoff against Pat Bradley. It was just great to win the Open in my home country, have my mom on the bag, and defeat Pat for the victory.

I will always cherish my three majors: the Canadian Open [Peter Jackson Classic] in 1981, the LPGA Championship in 1982, and the U.S. Women’s Open in 1983.

NEGM: What do you see as the biggest difference between your LPGA Tour and the Tour of today?

JS: Definitely, as competitors, we were all much friendlier. You know, 30 to 40 years ago, when there wasn’t a lot of money in the purses, we had to be much more personable in the pro-ams to keep the major sponsors and corporations happy.

The players were also all pretty close, much like a family, and we did many things together off the course. Now it’s more a big business as the players bring along their entourage of managers, swing gurus, agents, and trainers.

NEGM: Who would be on your Dream Team of today?

Of any time period?

JS: I’d love to play with Clint Eastwood, as I never have, and he has done so much for golf. I think we should be a twosome because, to tell you the truth, I have played with just about everyone else that I have wanted to!

I’d love to play with Ben Hogan again. I’d obviously love to play with my dad again. I’m a big fan of the Wright brothers, so add Wilbur and Orville. Finally, Ronald Reagan, who called me after I won the U.S. Open.

NEGM: What about your golf course design and “green” innovations?

JS: I have made a study of golf course architecture and served as an intern to Pete and Alice Dye for several years. I have also invested

a lot of time and money into learning about water purification, aquaculture, and recycled golf paths. The biggest disappointment in my golf career is that I haven’t had the breakthrough in golf course architecture that I desired. I did design six courses and thought I was off and running—and then the real estate and golf course economy took a plunge, and I was hit hard.

NEGM: You also do corporate outings and charity events.

JS: Yes, I take pleasure in that part of my life because I have learned so much over the years about how to get things accomplished. I have always been holding the torch for women, and I do a lot of personal and corporate work for women’s organizations and charities.

I have been very pleased with my “Jan for Juniors” initiative and my Jan Stephenson’s Crossroads Foundation to assist women and children in need.

NEGM: Do you think you can get into the World Golf Hall of Fame?

JS: My chances are getting better and better.

At the time of my retirement, my 15 European/ international victories were not recognized, only my 16 LPGA wins. I was really in no-man’s land. I am on the ballot now, and with the change in eligibility rules and with new executive committees, I am hopeful.

NEGM: Do you still get comments about your DDH Maxfli golf ball bathtub scene?

JS: Of course! I still get fan mail like crazy. I think it’s pretty funny I get that much attention over that picture at my age, but it’s still good PR, and I’m still pleased that people remember. In fact, I have had the suggestion to do a new golf ball bathtub photo, this time holding a glass of my new wine.

Steve Burton, WBZ-TV

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 53

Palopoli’s Picks: The FedEx Cup

Now with two rounds in the books for the 2014 FedEx Cup Playoffs, the remaining 70 players head on to the BMW Championship at Cherry Hills. At this year’s Deutsche Bank Championship Chris Kirk came out on top over a very strong field with some big names right on his heels coming down the stretch on the back nine. Before this victory Kirk was yet to post a top 10 in either a major, a WGC event, or a Playoff event, in four years on TOUR. As history has shown, anything can happen in the remaining two events of the FedEx Cup Playoffs and it’s not always the favorite that comes out on top. Below are my picks for the top five finishers for this year’s FedEx Cup Playoffs.

1. Jason Day After a fast start to the season and then working through an injury for much of the Spring, Day is getting hot again. Top 10s in both the Playoff events so far, including a T2 at the Barclays.

2. Rory McIlroy Hard not to pick the world’s best golfer to win the Cup after the tear he’s been on, but I think it’s going to be a close race. Last year, McIlroy didn’t fair well in the Playoff events. However, it’s clear to see that he’s a completely different player now.

3. Adam Scott

With all the attention on Rory McIlroy. Adam

Scott has been flying a bit below the radar as of late. But Scott’s worst finish since early May was the DBC with a T16.

4. Rickie Fowler This year Rickie Fowler showed the world that he is ready to win majors. Top fives in all of this year’s majors and a T9 at the Barclays. I look for Fowler to be in the thick of things at the TOUR Championship at Atlanta.

5. Jim Furyk

Jim Furyk is no stranger to the FedEx Cup Playoffs. The 44 year-old took home the Cup in 2010 in dramatic fashion, and is having quite the season this year with seven top 10s, including three solo runner-up finishes.

54 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | September 2014

Palopoli’s Picks: RYDER CUP

The US team is looking to get the Ryder Cup back in their hands for the first time since 2008.

Since the mid 1990s the Europeans have absolutely dominated the Ryder Cup. With only two victories for the US team during that span, in 1999 (The Country Club) and 2008 (Valhalla), the Europeans have proven that when it comes to team play, they are on a superior level that the US can’t seem to match.

The US will be handicapped by the absence of Dustin Johnson, who is taking the remainder of the year off from competitive golf to deal with personal issues. However, Captain Tom Watson recently announced a trio of solid captains picks in New England native Keegan Bradley, Hunter Mahan, and Webb Simpson. In the last Ryder Cup Bradley brought some much

needed intensity and spark to the team, and there’s no question that Watson will be looking for the same this time around.

The European team is headlined by Rory McIlroy who as of late, seems to be playing on a completely different level than everyone around him. McIlroy is joined by Ryder Cup veteran Sergio Garcia, whose record at the event speaks for itself at an impressive 14-6-4.

Between having “home field” advantage and the way the teams currently stack up, I don’t see how Team USA can pull off an upset in Scotland.

My Ryder Cup Prediction: Team Europe – 15 ½ Team USA – 12 ½

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 55

Team NE UPDATE: September 2014 Tracking our players on the tours //

by Steve

The PGA Tour season is over with Keegan Bradley and Scott Stallings having advanced to the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Jim Renner retains his PGA Tour card for next season although he did not qualify for the Playoffs. The Champions, LPGA, Web. Com and Symetra tours are also beginning to wind down. A particularly difficult season for some has been very good for others. Bright spots, so far, include Jon Curran and Brittany Altomare advancing to the PGA and LPGA tours next season.

PGA Tour Keegan Bradley, (VT), still alive in the Playoffs has made 19 cuts in 24 starts in an up and down season. A 2nd at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and 3/T-4th at the U.S. Open, Bridgestone and Greenbrier are his best finishes of the regular season. A scoring average of 70.031 has generated $2,716,409 in earnings through the Barclays. Keegan came to the Deutsche Bank Championship 29th in Playoff standings.

Scott Stallings, (MA) made 11 cuts in 27 starts earning $1,348,739 with a scoring average of 71.904. His win at the Farmers Insurance Open is followed by Scott’s best finish being the FedEx St.Jude Classic and a T-32. Scott came to TPC Boston for the Deutsche Bank with a rank of 90th.

Stallings needs work on his driving accuracy and putting if he hopes to advance.

Jim Renner, (MA), finished his season 118th on the Money List and will return to PGA Tour action next season thanks to a T-2nd at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-am and T-24th at the Shell Houston Open. Renner made 6 cuts in 25 starts with 1 WD. Jim’s earnings this season were $763,978 with a scoring average of 71.843.

JJ Henry, (CT) made 18 cuts in 28 starts and 1 WD this season. A scoring average of 71.064 generated earnings of $554,615. Henry’s 143rd finish on the Money List cost him regular tour privileges for next season. It was the worst season since his debut on the PGA Tour in 2001.

James Driscoll, (MA) made 11 cuts in 25 starts and 1 WD. James’ best finish was T-14th at the Puerto Rico Open. Driscoll’s earnings of $371,404 with a scoring average of 71.454 finds him ranked 162nd on the Money List, also losing his regular PGA Tour status for the first time since 2008.

Tim Petrovic, (MA) has played both the PGA and the Web.Com tours. His combined earnings are $138,282 as he has made 9 cuts in 19 starts combined.

Champions Tour Brad Faxon, (RI) has earnings of $108,429 with a scoring average of 72.15 after 14 events. Brad has been tagged for studio analyst duties with Fox Sports as they prepare to enter the golf market next season. Brad also works tirelessly on behalf of the CVS Charity Classic. We wish Brad luck with Fox Sports Golf.

Billy Andrade, (RI) continues to have a good rookie season earning $407,877 with an improved scoring average of 70.90 over last month. Competing in 16 events Andrade is ranked 31st on the Money List. Billy is playing well considering his being away from competitive golf for some time. His play is in addition to his selfless work on the annual CVS Charity Classic.

Dana Quigley, (MA) played the 3M Championship recently. We’ve not seen Dana playing since May. The Ironman’s focus continues to be for son Devon’s recovery from a TBI, (traumatic brain injury). Quigley’s earnings are $18,232 after competing in 6 events at this writing.

PH Horgan III, (RI) has played a limited schedule on the Champions Tour competing in 7 events, His earnings are $27,967.

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LPGA TOUR Alison Walshe, (MA) has made 16 starts making 9 cuts earning $80,733 with a scoring average of 73.286. Alison’s GIR rank of 137th appears to be linked directly to her Driving Accuracy where her rank is 140th. There is little question this part of her game holds the key to her success.

European PGA Tour Peter Uihlein, (MA) continues to struggle on the European PGA Tour. A T-19th at the Czech Masters is Peter’s best finish since January’s 10th place at the Qatar Masters. A scoring average of 70.42 has netted Uihlein just over $294,759 US.

WEB.COM TOUR Jon Curran, (MA) joins the PGA Tour next season. Ranked 12th on the Web.Com Money List at this writing, a win at the Brasil Champions and two other Top 10 finishes thrust Jon to the top of the heap. Making 8 cuts in 19 starts, Jon’s scoring average, 70.04, has generated $231,854. A Driving Distance rank of 135th/275.6 yards needs to improve before Curran starts the PGA Tour.

Jeff Curl, (CT), has 8 cuts in 15 starts earning $82,759 with a scoring average of 69.83.

Jeff’s driving accuracy holds the key. Ranked 59th in driving, Curl’s accuracy,(128th), needs work. His putting, (13th), is keeping Jeff in the game making him one that can break through the top 25 before the end of the season.

Trevor Murphy, (VT) has had a bit of a drought since his 2-Top 10’s early in the season.

Trevor has made 6 cuts in 14 starts earning $39,844 with a scoring average of 70.95.

Ranked 19th off the Tee, Murphy’s accuracy continues to hold the secret to his success.

Fran Quinn, (MA) has played 4 events making 2 cuts on the Web.Com earning $3,438 plus $26,187 at the U.S. Open Championship for a total of $26,187. The highlight of Fran’s career, as seen on TV was with his caddy-son Owen strolling up the 72nd fairway on Father’s Day at Pinehurst. It was the first time Quinn, 49, had for made the cut at the Championship in spite of previous trips. Congrats to Fran and family.

Rob Oppenheim, (MA) has 5 cuts in 14 starts, earning $63,509 with a scoring average of 70.08. Rob’s short game stats are very good. Not a long hitter, if Rob would work on his accuracy now and his distance at season’s end, he also stands a real chance, (ranked 79th), to crack the top 25 before season’s end.

LPGA Symetra Futures Tour Brittany Altomare, (MA) has made 15 cuts in 16 starts with earnings of $29,824 with a scoring average of 71.833. Ranked 14th on the Symetra Money List, Altomare appears headed for the LGPA TOUR in 2015. We wish Brittany continued success as the season winds down and her new season begins.

Molly Aronsson, (VT) has 6 cuts in 16 starts including a win at the Island Resort Championship.

Earnings of $21,631 with a scoring average of 74.5, Molly is currently ranked 23rd on the Money List. With 3 events left, Aronsson needs to place well if she expects to advance to the LPGA TOUR in 2015.

Natalie Sheary, (CT) has made 7 cuts in 12 starts. Earnings $7,643 with a scoring average of 73.485 is a good indication of a tough season for a very talented Sheary. Having earned her LGPA Tour card for this season, Natalie missed the cut in her 4 starts. Showing improvement since the last Update, we hope this talented young player stays the course.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 57

DEUTSCHE BANK CHAMPIONSHIP | By NEGM Staff

Kirk Wins 2014 Deutsche Bank Championship The Youth Movement Continues on PGA Tour

In his last two rounds at the Deutsche Bank Championship, while playing alongside world # 1 Rory Mcllory, Chris Kirk shot rounds of 64 and 66 to capture the 2014 DBC Championship and take over the lead position from Mcllory in the FedEx Cup Standings. In 5 years, over 200 rookies have landed on the PGA Tour and less than 20% gain the security of extended status. Winning and top 10 finishes are the lifeblood of a PGA Tour Player, and after winning the DBC Championship, Chris Kirk is here to stay as part of the new youth movement on the PGA Tour. Chris Kirk came on the scene at the PGA Tour in 2011 with a runner up finish to Phil Mickelson at The Shell Houston Open. In July 2011, during The Open Championship week, Chris won his first PGA Tour event at The Viking Classic and solidified his tenure on the Tour. In 2013 at the McGladrey Classic, Chris won his second PGA Tour event. The DBC win, which is the second of four events in the FedEx Cup race, is Kirks biggest win yet and will have a strong impact on his career.

The final round of the Deutsche Bank championship was a youth movement for sure with 9 of the top 10 players in their 20’s. In fact, there were only a few tour veterans over 30 that finished in the top 25 at this years event.

Chris Kirk’s first round on Friday was uneventful as he posted a 2 over 73. He followed that up with a 66 on Saturday and 64 on Sunday, matching Rory for the low round of the day. Kirk finished the final round with a 66 hoping to capture his third win on the PGA Tour. Kirk finished the 72nd hole with a par, leaving the door open for Billy Horschel, who needed only a birdie on 18 to tie and the eagle to win. Horschel hit a terrible 2nd shot into the hazard and boggied the final hole to give Kirk the victory uncontested.

These turn of events made Tom Watsons job as Ryder Cup Captain much more difficult as Keegan Bradley, a virtual shoe in as a captains pick, played very poorly under pressure once again in a major event. In addition, Watson now has a number of new players to choose from

that have made a statement for consideration in this years Ryder Cup. Once again the Deutsche Bank Championship brought out the very best of golf for New England sports fans with its unique Monday holiday finish. It was a great event even though again, this year crowds were noticeably smaller than in years past. The PGA Tours “Top 70” now move on to Cherry Hills CC in Colorado for the BMW Championship this week in search of that elusive 10 million dollar prize, The FedEx Cup Championship.

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ROSS’S RULES // By Jack Ross

READY GOLF IS NOT OUT OF ORDER

One of the most effective tools to combat slow play is to play “ready golf” – play when you are ready, without regard to honors on the tee or distance from the hole. Although Rule 10 specifies order of play, the rules are flexible enough to accommodate ready golf.

A player (or side in match play) who wins a hole takes the honor on the next teeing ground.

In a handicap match, honors on the tee is determined by the best net score on the previous hole.

During the play of the hole, the ball farthest from the hole is played first.

So what happens if you play out of turn?

In stroke play, there is no penalty, unless it is determined that competitors have agreed to play out of turn to give one of them an advantage (in which case they are disqualified). If players agree to play out of turn to save time, there is no penalty.

In match play, there is no penalty for playing out of turn, but your opponent may require you to recall the stroke and replay the shot. So if you steal your opponent’s honor on a par-3 and land your ball 3-feet from the hole, your opponent likely will tell you to re-tee. (On the other hand, he’d probably let you keep your shot in the

woods.) However, as in stroke play, competitors in match play may agree to play out of turn to save time. In that case, a player may not recall a shot played out of turn.

Generally, although it violates the order of play rule, the USGA and R&A take the view that putting out of turn speeds play and is not discouraged. If an opponent requests that you lift your ball on the putting green because it interferes with his line of putt, you are entitled to putt first rather than lift the ball even if he objects.

If you are playing a four-ball match (either stroke play or match play), you and your partner are free to decide who plays first, without regard to distance from the hole, provided this does not unduly delay play.

If two players hit their balls into a lateral water hazard and choose to take relief, the player whose ball lies farthest from the hole in the hazard plays first, even if his competitor’s ball last crossed the margin of the hazard farther from the hole. If both balls are lost in the hazard, the order of play should be decided by lot.

Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop. He also contributes rules columns to ESPN.com.

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Equipment REVIEW // by Ed Travis

Don’t Overlook

Balls & Gloves They are used on every shot—the golf ball and golf glove—and if you are looking to maximize your game don’t overlook a properly fitted glove and the proper ball to match your game. This month NEGM surveyed the products available in the marketplace for information you can use when purchasing these important parts of your equipment.

Gloves

Asher Asher’s Premium Collection features the Classic line made of AA premium Cabretta leather with a cutting edge variety of colors and patterns to compliment any wardrobe or style.

Bionic An ergonomic design designed by an orthopedic hand surgeon gives the StableGrip Glove great fit, comfort and flexibility. You’ll like the relief pads to keep the club from twisting and can help to increase swing speed Callaway Golf The Dawn Patrol from Callaway may be less expensive than some other glove models but it’s still 100% leather made with a cotton terry cuff for both comfort and moisture control.

FootJoy The leader in the glove business, FootJoy has gloves for anyone and any weather you’ll encounter on the course. The favorite StaSof glove of Cabretta leather has a great feel and is specially treated for wet or humid conditions.

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G/Fore has top quality men’s and ladies gloves and The Collection is their bell-weather line. Made of high quality Cabretta leather they come in colors to accent any style.

Glove It Ladies will appreciate the many features in the Glove It line. Made with Lycra in the back and Cabretta leather in the palm, they all have UV 50 sun protection.

Hirzl The Trust Control glove for men and ladies is all weather leather made of kangaroo hide that stays soft, won’t harden and is stronger than other leathers. Has a special Hirzl design to aid gripping the club.

Ping Golf has three models in their Sensor line but we were attracted to the Sensor Tech made from synthetic leather with a reinforced palm and natural fit fingers. For warm weather there’s a wicking wristband, the Velcro closure is perforated and Lycra is used over the knuckles and backs of fingers.

TaylorMade Golf If you’re interested in playing with one of the most popular gloves on Tour take a look at the TaylorMade TP, which stands for Tour Preferred. Highest quality Cabretta leather combined with a very nice stretch fit closure give an almost custom fit, plus the wristband is moisture wicking.

Titleist The sister company to FootJoy has a modern classic, their Perma-Soft Glove. It is made from specially tanned Cabretta with a mesh panel over the knuckles for a comfortable fit.

Zero Friction The Compression Gloves from Zero Friction are a one-size fits all construction with a synthetic palm for all weather grip and Lycra mesh in the fingers, palm and back. Breathable and durable are just two of the features.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 65

Balls 3Up Golf The premium 3F12 ($40 dozen) is a 3-piece golf ball for amateur players with a cast Urethane cover designed 3Up says, “…for those not wanting to compromise distance or feel.” The company donates $3 to a golf related charity for every dozen sold.

Bridgestone Golf The B330 series has been a big success for Bridgestone with the news for 2014 being water-infused cores which are meant to reduce the spin produced when hit with the driver. The 4-piece B330 and B330-S ($45 dozen), for driver swing speeds over 105 mph, have a new dual mantle and a softer Urethane cover. The B330-RX and B330-RXS (3-piece, $45 dozen) for swing speeds under 105 mph also benefit from the Hydro-core and like the B330/B330-S have a softer Urethane cover for more spin and control.

Callaway Golf Callaway has introduced the Speed Regime line (all $48 dozen) comprised of the 4-piece SR 1 for swing speeds under 90 mph, the 5-piece SR 2 for 90 to 105 mph swing speeds and the 5-piece SR 3 for those with really high speeds— over 105 mph. Also, at a lower price point are the X2 Hot 3-piece designed for less than 90 mph swing speeds, $27 and the X2 Hot+ (also 3-piece and $27) for over 90 mph swing speeds.

Hopkins Golf New to the ball business, Hopkins has two offerings, the VLPro—3-piece construction Surlyn cover with multilayer core for $20 per dozen and the 2-piece VL Speed, $20 for two dozen.

Monsta Golf This 3-piece cast Urethane cover ball has a high performance mantle and a core they say maximizes the coefficient of restitution for longer distance. In the mid-price range at $35 dozen.

Nicklaus Golf The Golden Bear donates $1 for each dozen purchased to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation of their three models constructed to match the tees most often played—3piece Surlyn cover White ($28 dozen) for white tee golfers and the 3-piece, Blue ($28) and Black ($32) for highest swing speeds.

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Nike Golf Making use of their two year old RZN core technology but now interlocking the core with the next layer, Nike has come out with four new balls. At the top of the lineup are the 4-piece RZN Platinum tour ball with medium level spin for $46 and the RZN Black tour (also 4-piece and $46 dozen) which is firmer for less spin. There are two distance balls as well (both $30 dozen), the RZN Red and the RZN White with a softer cover.

Srixon The large core 3-piece Z-Star and 4-piece Urethane cover Z-Star XV offer good trajectory control plus their covers have what Srixon calls a “spinskin” coating to improve spin on short distance shots. Both of these tour level balls sell for $45 dozen and each also comes in yellow.

TaylorMade Golf The Urethane cover Tour Preferred and Tour Preferred X (each $46 dozen) are new with the main difference being the X has a lower ball flight plus this year TMaG has come out with a ball for “competitive mid-handicappers.” The Project (a) is a 3-piece Urethane cover ball with especially good spin characteristics on shorter shots—$32 dozen.

They have retained an old favorite, the Noodle and Noodle Spin, which at $15 dozen nicely fill the needs of slower swing speed players, ladies and seniors.

Titleist Golf The Titleist 3-piece Pro V1 and 4-piece Pro V1x (both $48 dozen) continue to be the best selling balls with the Pro V1 constructed with a slightly softer Urethane cover and the Pro V1x producing less spin off the driver. Also in the Titleist stable are the popular NXT Tour and NXT Tour S ($34 dozen). The NXT Tour has a dual core with a thin Fusablend cover and the NXT Tour S a softer core of very high resilience. The new distance ball for Titleist is the 2-piece Velocity ($27) using a reformulated core and softer cover.

Volvik Best known for their colored golf balls there is also the White Color S3 ($45 dozen), a 3-piece Urethane cover ball with the metal bismuth in the core.

The cover has the same “pearlescent” finish as the color models but the company says it had traditional golfers in mind when it introduced the S3.

Wilson Golf The Wilson Staff Duo has a very low compression (40) with a 2-piece construction meant for recreational players. The company says it provides maximum distance for slower swing speed golfers. In white or yellow for $20 dozen.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 67

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For over 14 years my passion has been to get the concept of the Golf Body out to the golfing public. It’s great that so many players are adding a fitness component to their game. What I’m seeing, though, is that a lot of these workouts aren’t all that focused on improving the way people play. Whether I’m working on Tour with Keegan Bradley or at our Performance Center in Jupiter, FL with players at every level, it’s important to bring precision and purpose into your fitness program that’s exclusively dedicated to golf.

Think about what your body must do to swing a golf club correctly — and to be able to continue to swing it correctly for your entire round. The larger muscles of the chest and shoulders have to be strong enough to control your 50 mph takeaway and slingshot it back into a 100 mph downswing — while not being so tight that they limit the depth of either your backswing or follow-through. A typical chest routine at the gym would have you doing a lot of bench presses, which can tighten the muscles and prevent your backswing and follow-through you like. from being as deep as you’d The hips have to be stable enough to hold you in place during your address and takeaway, but strong, fast, and powerful enough to be able to drive through the ball at impact. There are very few traditional gym exercises that focus on hip stability, strength, or explosion.

The small muscles that make up the rotator cuff in your shoulder have to be strong and capable of a wide range of motion to make sure that your swing is technically correct. When was the last time you heard of anyone heading off to the gym for a rotator cuff workout? you not focusing on golf-specific training at home or at the gym, the If you’re number on your bathroom scale might start to go down, but the number on your scorecard won’t. My philosophy is that if you want to improve your golf game and lower your score, you’ve got to optimize your Golf Body and take it to the course. For players at all levels around the world, our Golf Body 1 Home Follow-Along Program is helping them do just that.

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October / November 2013 | myNEGM.com/indoorgolf presented by aboutGolf.com | 69

WHAT’S NEWS | September 2014 Sadena Parks Wins New England Charity Classic

GOFFSTOWN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, August 10, 2014 – Sadena Parks fired a 5-under 67 and defeated fellow Big Break Florida contestant Jackie Stoelting on the second playoff hole to win her second event in three weeks at the New England Charity Classic presented by PTC. Parks becomes the third two-time winner on the Symetra Tour this year. Min Seo Kwak, who ranks first on the Volvik Race for the Card money list and Marissa Steen, who is second on the money list, are the other two-time winners. “Tour Rookie Katelyn SEPMOREE FAMILY LIVES IN BOSTON: Symetra Tour rookie Katelyn Sepmoree was five shots off the lead at the start of the day in a tie for 30th. On Sunday, she carded a 5-under 67 to finish in a tie for eighth.

USGA Announces Megan Khang to Represent USA at the Inaugural World Junior Girls’ Team Championship

Norton, MA — Congratulations to Megan Khang of Rockland for being selected today as one the three players who will represent the USA at the inaugural World Junior Girls’ Team Championship, to be held Sept. 26 through Oct. 1, 2014, at Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario, Canada. Khang is a junior at Rockland High School and ranked No. 35 in the Women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking.

17 Year Old Kelley Whaley win 3rd Connecticut Amateur WALLINGFORD, CT The Connecticut Women’s Amateur golf tournament had virtually been decided before Kelly Whaley teed it up in Wednesday’s final round. Her lead stood at 13 shots after two rounds. The only thing left to be determined was whether Whaley would top her 16-stroke victory from a year ago. Whaley “only” ended up winning by 14 shots this time around at The Farms Country Club, shooting a final-round 75. But at age 17, Whaley already owns three Women’s Amateur titles.

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WHAT’S NEWS | September 2014

Massachusetts Captures 2014 New England Junior Amateur Invitational;

Steven DiLisio Wins Individual Stroke Play Title Seekonk, MA – For the third time in four years, the seven-person team from Massachusetts can call themselves New England Junior Amateur Invitational champions. Under perfect conditions from start to finish, the Bay State contingent erased a two-stroke deficit following the first round to prevail by 17 strokes in the three-round competition held over two days at Ledgemont Country Club.Team Massachusetts finished with a three-round score of 16-over par 1,081 to best Connecticut – a 15-time winner of this event – as well as teams from Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

John & Mary Mulcahy Capture Fifth Straight Divisional Title at the Massachusetts Father & Daughter Championship

Wellesley, MA —For a mind-boggling fifth year in a row, the team of John Mulcahy (Hatherly CC) and Mary Mulcahy (Hatherly CC) captured a divisional title at the Massachusetts Father & Daughter Championship.

The Mulcahy duo carded a score of 6-over par 77 at Wellesley Country Club on Thursday to claim the Championship Division title as their own.

SAVE THE DATE GOLF MADEIRA INFORMATION NIGHT

Wednesday, October 1st at 7pm at Madeira Restaurant, 288 Warren Ave, East Providence, RI 02914.

Hosted by Sagres Vacations, the night will include hors d’oeuvres, (2) $50.00 Gift Certificates that will be raffled off and information about wonderful golf packages to the beautiful Island of Madeira. Mark your calendar today!!

Call Sagres Vacations for more information on accommodations and golf packages.

761 Bedford Street Fall River, Massachusetts

(508) 679-0053 info@sagresvacations.com

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 71

WHAT’S NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2014

The New England PGA completes a Second Successful Season of Drive Chip and Putt; 16 Juniors Earn a Shot at Augusta National Plymouth, MA — Congratulations to the participants who took part in this year’s Drive, Chip & Putt qualifiers which were held across the state.

Here is a summary of the Drive Chip and Putt Sub-Regional Qualifier at Pinehills Golf Club.

The following sixteen players will be playing on Long Island at Bethpage Green: Girls 7-9: Emma Abramson (67) and Molly Smith (58) Boys 7-9: John Hiller (103) and Noah Leclair (103) Girls 10-11: Jennie Grogan (93) and Eleanor Parkerson (92) Boys 10-11: Everett Mosher (132) and Joseph Lenane (115) Girls 12-13: Allison Paik (102) and Alexandra Chicharro (89) Boys 12-13: Nathan Hogan (117) and Conner Willett (114) Girls 14-15: Kristina Thimme (114) and Emily Nash (114) Boys 14-15: Andrew Giacchetto (125) and Carter Pearl (123)

Herbie Aikens Breaks a Barrier at 2014 Massachusetts Amateur Public Links Championship; Wins First MGA Championship Individual Title Harwich, MA — It was a long time coming but the wait was worth it all. For the first time in his amateur golf career, Herbie Aikens (Pinehills GC) is finally able to call himself an MGA individual champion. He captured the 2014 Massachusetts Amateur Public Links Championship title at Cranberry Valley Golf Course on Wednesday after posting an impressive two-day score of 8-under par 136.

- 2014 Weekday Special Monday-Friday 7am-12pm

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$36.00 Includes Cart & Lunch **Tee Times Recommended Rehoboth CC now has Leagues & Tournament Openings for 2015

WHAT’S NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2014 Rich Rules at 94th New England PGA Championship Rich Berberian, Jr. brings home the Tom Mahan, Sr. Trophy as the 94th New England PGA Champion. Rich at Windham Country Club (NH) shot -1 (71) in the Final Round and -5 (211) over three rounds to win the New England PGA Championship.

This was the first time that Berberian, Jr., PGA had participated in the Section Championship, but one could not tell by looking at his scorecard. He birdied four out of the first six holes in the Final Round, capped off by an incredible 30-foot putt on Hole 6, and finished with six on the day. Berberian, Jr., PGA made 16 birdies over the course of the Section Championship, a total that led the tournament.

Kevin Foster Captures 27th CT. Mid Amateur Championship Kevin Foster of Hop Meadow Country Club fired a two under-par 70 in the final round to capture the 27th Connecticut Mid-Amateur Championship, winning by two strokes over Philip Perry of Black Hall Club.Foster, who entered the final day just two strokes off the lead after an opening round of 70, shot a round of 74 in the morning round and trailed Perry by two heading into the final round. Foster quickly moved from a tie for second to a three shot lead over the field for the victory

Frank Bensel Wins 80th Connecticut Championship Frank Bensel of Fairfield, Conn. entered the final day trailing by one stroke and shot a round of four under-par 66 to capture the 80th Connecticut Open Championship at Rolling Hills Country Club. The state’s most prestigious open championship was held July 28th – 30th at the 6,754 yard par-70 course in Wilton, Conn.

September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 73

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEWS | September 2014 Co-Champs crowned in Maine Mixed Championship The rain held off and the sun stayed out on Sunday as 38 teams competed in the 2014 Mixed Championship at Willowdale GC. This year top honors were shared by the teams of Chris King and Sally Williams (Val Halla) and Malcolm Oliver (Bath CC) and Bailey Plourde (Samoset Resort). Both teams turned in tremendous rounds of even-par 70.

Jones rules in Maine Match Play Championship

Jeff Cole played steady golf but unfortunately ran into the hot sticks of Ricky Jones in the final of the Maine Match Play Championship Thursday. Jones had four birdies and just one bogey -- on nine, the only hole Cole was able to win -- en route to the championship. Thanks to Sable Oaks for hosting this event, despite the weather issues yesterday and overnight. It was a true test of golf for this MSGA championship.

Leavitt Wins Another in NH - Takes Stroke Play Title

HUDSON, NEW HAMPSHIRE- Leavitt capped off his unprecedented season with a win at the 2014 New Hampshire Stroke Play Championship at Green Meadow Golf Club by shooting a one under par 71 in the morning round and finishing in style with a four under 68 (low round of the day) in the afternoon to nip Connor Greenleaf by two shots and finish at eight under par for the 72 hole event.

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WHAT’S NEWS | September 2014 Geoffrey Sisk Wins New Hampshire Open Championship CAMPTON, NEW HAMPSHIRE - Geoffrey Sisk of Marshfield, Mass has won the Massachusetts Open six times, the New England Open four times, the Maine Open once and has now added the New Hampshire Open to his victory total after winning in a sudden death playoff at Owl’s Nest Golf Club.

The 49 year old former PGA Tour and Web.com (Nationwide) Tour member opened with a 67 on Wednesday leaving him five shots behind Chris Wellde’s course record 62. With a morning round 66 on Thursday he moved up the leaderboard and with his final round 67 he finished tied with David Chung of Orlando, Florida at 16-under par for 54 holes.

Eric Lajeunesse 2014 Vermont Mid-Amateur Champion!

The final match was a great battle between two fine competitors - Eric Lajeunesse from the Country Club of Barre and the 2013 defending Mid-Am Champion, Frankie Sanborn from Rutland Country Club. Eric fought back to win the 16th hole getting back to only 1 down. The par 3 17th hole decided the match when Frankie’s tee shot found the front bunker and he was unable to get up and down for his par. Eric’s par sealed the deal and he won the match 2 and 1. It was a great match between two of Vermont’s finest competitors!

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September 2014 | Subscribe at myNEGM.com | 75

Gorman vs. Geary // by Tim Geary

Over the five years that Gorman and I have been debating golf-related topics, we have enjoyed taking cheap shots at each other, all in the name of fun, although we both have run into people who say, “You guys really hate each other”.

This month’s debate centers around the PGA Tour’s drug testing policy. There’s nothing remotely amusing about it, no matter which side you support.

Gorman is arguing that since the players on tour are in reality independent contractors they should not be subject to drug testing, while I argue that it is perfectly acceptable in order to retain the public’s trust that the competitions are decided fairly.

Gorman has a strong argument and to a certain degree we agree. PGA Tour players do not have guaranteed contracts as do most teamoriented team athletes. If they don’t compete, they don’t get paid. If they don’t play well enough they don’t get paid and if they do earn money it’s the players who play the best who earn the most.

In 2008 the PGA Tour and the Players Policy Board agreed to drug testing. That knocks Gorman’s independent contractor theory out of the box. The players, as a body, agreed to this testing.

If an individual does not want to abide by the agreement they can opt to be a club pro someplace or get a real job. Heck they could caddie if they so choose. I don’t think the tour tests its caddies for performance enhancing drugs.

Where the Dustin Johnson case falls is a different debate. Johnson was “suspended” from the tour for a third failed drug test, allegedly once due to marijuana and twice because of cocaine use.

The initial statement said Johnson was taking time off voluntarily to improve his “mental health, physical well-being and emotional foundation”.

Later it was leaked that Johnson had been suspended. The Tour denies that it suspended Johnson. The reason being that the Tour’s policy is to test and suspend players for using PEDs and not for recreational drug usage.

There are those who argue that the Tour suspended Johnson and denied it was for public relations reasons, but in reality it is hurting the image of the Tour for being secretive.

Now, back to our debate.

Whether Dustin Johnson was suspended for using recreational or performance enhancing drugs is not what Gorman and I are arguing.

My reasoning is that in order to make sure the playing field is fair and level, the players should be tested for substances that will artificially give them an advantage over their competition.

The Fourth Amendment prevents unwarranted searches and yet Police and Fire Departments, the military and even private sector jobs such as airline pilots and school bus drivers often are subject to testing.

Nobody can just arbitrarily test us for anything without gaining a legal warrant and then only if the authorities can demonstrate enough evidence that such a warrant is justified.

But then none of us is forced to participate in a program or work at a job in which drug testing has been agreed upon, for whatever reason. You don’t want to be tested? Fine, but you can’t be a police officer.

PGA Tour players don’t HAVE to be PGA Tour players. They can opt to work in a field that does not require one to be tested. And again, the Policy Board had to agree to this testing before it to go forward.

We want our athletes to be as good as they can be based on their talent and their work ethic, not on who their chemist might be.

Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. No amount of PEDs would help his game.

Does professional golf need a drug testing policy?

Gorman vs. Geary // by Tom Gorman

W a n t to stop a conversation before it starts, then ask a golfer what drug they take to improve performance?

G o o d chance you’ll be met with a stoned look

and measured response.

Let’s be honest, if there was a pill available to make us play better, then drug companies would be making millions, and the sport would instantly see new players. Who would have thought prescription golf pills might grow the game? The most common drug available around the first tee is Ibuprofen. The most common source of comfort at the 19th hole is alcohol. It’s not proven that Ibuprofen helps your game only that it assists in reducing pain, so you can play 18 holes and then pay off your bets while claiming you had a bad back, wrist or elbow.

Enough about how alcohol and drugs might help amateurs like me before, during and after a round, let’s get straight to the controversy of whether the PGA Tour should test players for recreational drugs. More importantly, should PGA Tour superstar and world-ranked No. 6 Dustin Johnson be suspended for six months for doing a little marijuana and cocaine on his own free time?

Everyone makes a few mistakes once in a while, an occasional choke here or there, but I question the PGA Tour’s drug policy. On what basis can the PGA Tour suspend Dustin Johnson for six months when he is an independent contractor? Johnson, and all Tour players, are not employees of the PGA Tour, but rather, they are self-employed, only earning a weekly paycheck based on performance. If a player wants to get

stoned and wasted after missing the cut, then let it be. They’re destined for more missed cuts and a short career.

Unlike major league baseball, football and hockey, PGA Tour players do not receive a guaranteed salary for showing up. They are not contracted employees within a team or organization.

Drug-testing for steroids and performance-enhancing drugs is a big deal and a fair policy for all competitors to agree to, so the PGA Tour slowly and reluctantly implemented a policy on July 1, 2008. What’s missing is transparency. According to my research only one player, Doug Barron, on November 3, 2009, was suspended by the PGA Tour for one year after testing positive for supplemental testosterone and beta-blocker. The problem with that suspension is that Barron was diagnosed in 1987 with a heart murmur that required doctorprescribed beta-blockers and occasional testosterone injections. The Tour eventually granted Barron therapeutic-use exemption. Guess what?

Steroids don’t improve golf scores!

Another puzzling decision involving the PGA Tour and its alleged enforcement of its drug-testing policy involves Vijay Singh, who admitted in 2011 to using deer-antler spray.

Deer-antler spray is a substance for which the Tour doesn’t even test, yet Singh was suspended, under a mysterious cloud of secrecy, which is how the Tour operates. Guess what? Deer-antler spray does not improve your golf swing. Singh has a legal dispute pending with the PGA Tour, and for good reason, and Dustin Johnson should do the same thing. Marijuana and cocaine did not help Johnson log one win, two seconds, seven top-10s and earn $4.2 million this season.

Since the PGA Tour has a pretend drug policy should Tour players be tested for marijuana and cocaine? And, if found to test positive, should they be subject to disciplinary action. My answer is No and No. Tom Gorman thinks only dopes do dope, but will try dope if it improves his putting and chipping.

Does professional golf need a drug testing policy?

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