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California
dreamin’ Travel to an instant classic:
pelican hill
GOLF GEAR
Hook & Gaff
Watches made with golfers in mind
LESSON TEE
HAPPY HOUR
clock drill
fort george
groove your swing all year long
another year, another great 3-way ipa 1
CHARITY
Evergreen citizens for schools september 29
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editor
from the
Northwest
News & Notes
Kris Fay
Welcome to the Summer issue of NW Golf Adventures Magazine
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ost of the golfers reading this magazine probably keep their rounds of golf friendly, maybe with a little action between buddies on the weekends. I would venture to guess that most of them focus on playing their own ball each time they go out, looking to beat their lowest score.
the pressure off your game. Even though I play several individual events each year, there are a couple of partner tournaments that I look forward to.
I’d like to point all those players in a new direction. Golf is more fun when there’s something on the line or when you’re playing in an event that takes you out of that comfort zone. I’m not talking about playing in a big amateur event, I’m suggesting you find a team event to enter.
Two years ago, my son and I started playing in the Oregon Golf Association’s Parent-Child Chapman. We’ve had success in the event, but it’s really about spending a day together on the course. The other event is our club’s annual Goose and Gander Tournament. My wife started playing golf because I enjoy it and she’s improved every year. Couples events are a great way to take time away from the daily grind and work together on the course.
Team events, regardless of format, are a great way to try competitive golf; it’s a step above your typical Saturday game. You’re playing someplace new and you’ve got a partner to help take some of
Whether you play with a buddy or with a family member, go find a partner event and try something new. You’ll focus on your game and learn to hit shots when you’re under pressure.
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Goats take over at Silvies Let’s face it, animals and golf just make good stories. That’s the case at Silvies Ranch in eastern Oregon where goats are now carrying clubs. Using special bags, the goats can carry up to six clubs, a dozen golf balls and tees, and (most importantly) six refreshing beverages. Don’t worry, each caddie is fully vaccinated and only works three or four days per week. Great work if you can get it.
Josh North Golfers in Southwest Washington lost a friend recently when Josh North, owner of North Star Golf Car, passed away unexpectedly. Players could always count on Josh to make sure their carts were in top shape. This magazine will especially miss Josh and his editorial contributions.
Aspen Lakes Golf Course The popular course located near Sisters, Oregon has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Course owners cited a 2017 drop in revenue related to eclipse-gridlock fears and smoke from nearby wildfires that polluted the air. The facility plans to continue operating.
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inside this
issue.
The
Lesson Tee
Issue 14: July/August 2018
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Pelican Hill Twenty five years ago, Tom Fazio designed the two golf courses that would eventually be the center piece for Pelican Hill, a Newport Beach resort that continually draws rave reviews from guests.
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Operation Pollinator The Operation Pollinator initiative was developed 15 years ago by Syngenta, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of agronomic systems for the golf industry.
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he clock drill is a simple three step process that will help you create proper setup positions and get you hitting the ball more consistently is a short period of time. The clock drill begins with the setup. The key component with the setup is the proper weight distribution in your feet. When you assume your stance (with an iron) our goal is to have 60% of your weight on your left foot and 40% on the right foot. This will put your body in a position of impact before you make the golf swing. Now we will look at the three swings.
Pro Golf Coming Many of the world’s best golfers started on the minor league tours. You’d be surprised how many of them have come through the Pacific Northwest!
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The Great 48 It can be tough to travel in a new city. In this issue, we’ll help navigate the Sacramento area so you spend more time on the course and less time wondering where to go next.
The first swing is called an 8-to-4. The idea is that your hands will travel to 8 o’clock in the backswing and will finish at 4 o’clock in the through swing. Once you get in the proper setup position our thought is to hit the ground. The shot should be lower in flight and should not travel very far. Our goal in this swing is to swing at 75% effort.
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The next swing is called 9-to3. The idea is that your hands will travel to 9 o’clock in the backswing and will finish at 3 o’clock in the through swing. You may notice that when the hands get to 9 0’clock your clubhead is quite a bit further, and that is ok. We are focused only on our hands. Just like
USUAL suspects.
the
02. From the editor 03. Lesson Tee: Clock Drill 06. Fashion FORE-ward: Travis Mathew, Hook & Gaff, Puma 10 & 11. The Best Shot: Oak Creek Golf Club 15. Happy Hour: Fort George Brewing, Rose’, Official Misconduct 16 & 17. Places to Play 18. Junior Spotlight
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8-to-4 once you get in the proper setup position our thought is to hit the ground. The shot should be a mid trajectory and the ball will travel a little further. Our goal in this swing is to swing at 75% effort. The last swing is called 10-to2. The idea is that your hands will travel to 10 o’clock (left hand to right shoulder for right handed players) in the backswing and will finish at 2 o’clock in the through swing (right hand to left shoulder). Just like the 8-to-4 and the 9-to-3 shots, once you get in the proper setup position our thought is to hit the ground. This shot will produce a higher ball flight and will travel max distance. I firmly believe that if you incorporate the clock drill, you will hit better shots and start shooting lower scores.
Alan Reese PGA Professional Salem Golf Club areese@pga.com
JULY 2018
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the finish: Portland is the last stop for tour cards
family friendly: Tournament features family fun
PROFESSIONAL GOLF COMING TO THE NORTHWEST THIS SUMMER
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he fifth annual WinCo Foods Portland Open returns to Pumpkin Ridge August 16-19 where 156 of the world’s best golfers will battle it out for 25 PGA TOUR cards. Players to have earned their cards here in the past include Justin Thomas, Tony Finau and recent TOUR winner Aaron Wise. This year’s field promises to be as strong as ever and the fan experience includes a new twist that is sure to please the wine lovers out there.
The Grove’ has become a fan favorite at the Portland Open since it was introduced in 2014. Located along the par-3 12th on the Witch Hollow course, this spot offers one of the best views on the course with an up-close look as players navigate the treacherous 150-yard hole. Each year dozens of Northwest craft breweries are featured at The Grove and new this August, Willamette Valley’s finest wineries will be at The Grove throughout the tournament. What’s more, with their golf ticket each patron twenty-one years or older receives ten complimentary tastings. Also included at The Grove, each fan is entered into the ‘BMW Hole-In-One Giveaway’ adding even more reason to cheer golfers along at the
DeFENDING CHAMPION: AARon Wise
top golf talent: college players looking for next step
12th. If any professional makes a HoleIn-One during tournament play, one lucky fan drives home in a brand-new BMW. With everything happening at The Grove, the Portland Open is a can’t miss summer destination in the Pacific Northwest. Earlier in the week, Wednesday will feature the Under Armour Junior Clinic. This event is free and all juniors in attendance will receive a tournament gift package courtesy of Under Armour. Also in attendance will be some of Portland’s favorite mascots and Web.com Tour professionals offering a one of a kind experience for juniors to interact with the best players in the world. Saturday is Family Day at the Portland Open, featuring a free lunch and tournament gift package for the first 250 children in attendance. Sunday features Breakfast at Pumpkin Ridge, complimentary to all Sunday ticket holders. Last year’s tournament featured one of the
front row seat: fans can get a great seat to all the actions
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Cambia Portland: Defending champ stacy Lewis
Boeing classic: defending champ jerry kelly
most intriguing storylines this event has seen. One year removed from winning the University of Oregon’s first individual NCAA tournament, Aaron Wise held the lead over the weekend and went on to earn his PGA TOUR card in front of a large hometown crowd. This year’s field features another former Oregon standout in position to follow Wise’s path to the TOUR. Wyndham Clark was the Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2017 and led the Ducks to their second consecutive NCAA Finals appearance. Since turning pro, Clark has notched three top ten finishes in his rookie season and is positioned comfortably inside the top 25 on the Web.com Tour money list.
by a golf tournament in the state of Oregon. With more than 100 participating nonprofits, the TICKETS Fore CHARITY program has become a major benefactor within the community. With everything from world class golf, to fine wines, there’s something for everyone at Oregon’s Premier Golf Event. For more information and to purchase your tickets supporting the charity of your choice visit WinCoGolf.com.
Since the inaugural event in 2014, 100% of tournament ticket sales have gone directly to Portland area charities through the TICKETS Fore CHARITY program. The result has been $4.4 MILLION to charities in just four years, the largest charitable donation
Aaron Wise, Jason Day, Scott Piercy, Billy Horschel, Andrew Landry, Brice Garnett, Bubba Watson, Gary Woodland, Patton Kizzire, Austin Cook, Patrick Cantlay, Ryan Armour, Justin Thomas, Pat Perez, Brendan Steele, and Xander Schauffele.
Recent PGA TOUR Winners from Web.com Many of the world’s best started small. Here are just some of the recent TOUR and major winners who came from the Web.com Tour:
Honors: The boeing classic honors veterans and active duty military
boise open: defending champ chesson hadley
PNW TOURNAMENT DATES WINCO PORTLAND OPEN August 16-19, 2018 Pumpkin Ridge GC - Witch Hollow North Plains, Oregon Web.com TOUR BOEING CLASSIC August 24-26, 2018 The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge Snoqualmie, Washington PGA TOUR Champions CAMBIA PORTLAND CLASSIC August 30-September 2, 2018 Columbia Edgewater Country Club Portland, Oregon LPGA TOUR ALBERTSONS BOISE OPEN September 13-16, 2018 Hillcrest Country Club Boise, Idaho Web.com TOUR
giving back: all northwest events give back to their community
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JULY 2018
Fashion FORE-ward GOLF FASHION IS AN EVOLVING THING. DON’ T MISS A SINGLE TREND IN TOPS, BOTTOMS, SHOES AND MORE. DO YOU HAVE A PICTURE OF YOU BEING FASHION FORE-WARD? SEND IT TO US!
GET OUTFITTED MONTHLY
Look Good, Play Good There’s a reason Tiger Woods wears red on Sunday. He’s intimidating his opponents, who know that red shirt has held up plenty of trophies. Why not look your best on and off the course? We’re here to help! BY AARON STELLE
Short Par 4
It can be REALLY hard to put together the perfect golf outfit. Join Short Par 4 and let their stylists hand select golf apparel from top brands like Under Armour, Travis Mathew, Johnnie-O, Devereux, Callaway, Puma & more! No lines, no racks, no hassles when its delivered right to your door. Use the code “NWGAM” for a discount on your first month!
SUPERB SHIRTS
Travis Mathew
The BOOMER can only be best described as business below, party on top. The vivid red upper chest colorblock print screams ‘I’m hear for a good time,’ but the solid lower lets everyone know you carry a certain level of earnest. A great blend of comfort and performance, the BOOMER is a shirt you can wear on and off the course. The shirts are easy to match with one of the company’s great hats!
ACCESSORIES
Hook & Gaff
These new watches were made for golfers that have extreme passion and intuition for the game. The sport timepieces are designed with durable materials and intended for long hot days on the course. Water resistant up to 200 meters, the watch also has a leftside crown to avoid getting in the way of your swing and irritating your wrist.
FOOTWEAR
Arnie’s Army
In honor of Arnold Palmer’s legendary career, PUMA teamed up with Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation to design and create custom Arnie’s Army PWRADAPT Golf shoes and Cap. The custom gear features a silhouette of a young Palmer along with each year he won in his career, and the number of wins in each of those respective years.
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California
Dreamin’
the resort at pelican hill offers fine lodging & golf It feels like a resort that’s been around far longer than 10 years, but careful planning made this retreat a possibility. Twenty five years ago, Tom Fazio stood on the cliffs overlooking California’s Crystal Cove State Park and had a vision. The result is two championship golf courses that play across canyons and provide endless panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Those courses are every bit as spectacular as you’d think they would be. Upon opening, both courses received accolades, but Fazio returned in 2005 to “reperfect” his golf courses as part of a drastic The Pelican Grill offers delicious casual dining experiences throughout the day.
overhaul of the site that would become The Resort at Pelican Hill. Regardless of skill level, players have been delighted with the Ocean North and Ocean South courses since the resort reopened in 2008, making it one of the top golf destinations in the world. The Ocean North Course is one of the rare golf courses that manages to whet the appetite of every golfer. From the start, the views are stunning, and the course conditions impeccable. Each hole is unique from tee to green and the challenge continues on greens that roll both true and fast.
or the risk associated with a fairway bunker on the right. Placement of that initial shot results in either a tough three-shot hole, or a risky two-shot one. Either way, the small green -- framed by a single tree and the Pacific Ocean -- is protected by bunkers short left and water right. Finishing late in the day is a glorious site. Most golfers would consider the Ocean South Course the easier of the two at Pelican Hill. What the Ocean South lacks in difficulty, it makes up for in beauty. With impeccable conditions, the best qualities of the Ocean South Course are embodied by a pair of back-to-back par threes.
In short, it’s incredible. Measuring just under 7,000 yards from the tips, the Ocean North Course has elevated shots that alternately provide views of the Pacific, the island, and Newport Beach. It was hard to pick a feature hole, but the par five 17th combines all the best qualities the Ocean North Course has to offer. It all starts with a decision on the tee, forcing golfers to choose between the safety of the left side
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The 12th plays slightly downhill with Crystal Cove State Park on the left. Bunkers protect a long, multi-tiered green short, right and long. There’s very little room for error and a two-putt is anything but a given. The following hole, the 130-yard 13th, gives reason to pause with one of the most spectacular views on the property. The hole features two greens, both generously protected by bunkers, that give players a different experience every time they visit.
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Orange County Things to see and do away from the resort. Meeting of Land and Sea Oak Creek Golf Club (18 holes) In true Tom Fazio form, Oak Creek calls forth the competitive spirit of golfers at all levels. Each of the 18 holes throughout this Orange County gem presents new challenges amid tapered fairways, scenic greens, beautiful lakes and bull-nose carved bunkers. www.oakcreekgolfclub.com
IN BRIEF
The Resort In addition to world class golf and lodging, Pelican Hill offers a full complement of spa services, as well as dining options for every palette...
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he drive into The Resort at Pelican Hill can’t prepare guests for the sheer beauty of the resort that awaits them. That all changes with a short walk from the hotel lobby to the expansive patio revealing a property designed to look like an Italian estate.
resort. Pelican Hill has taken a step that many high-end resorts never do by integrating into the fabric of the community around it. The work includes providing space for local groups to meet, and evenings for local musicians to play in the Great Room Social Lounge on weekends. It’s a place that locals enjoy visiting even when they aren’t staying on property.
The 504-acre resort is home to 332 guest rooms -- including bungalows and multibedroom villas. Each room is equipped with Bose music systems, large high-definition televisions, dining and sitting areas, and 24/7 hotel staff trained to deal with any request.
If you’re interested in a trip to Pelican Hill, the resort offers a variety of golf, spa, and dining packages. Unlike some high-end resorts that always have availability, Pelican Hill is a destination you’ll want to book early.
Resort amenities are centered around the massive Coliseum Pool, one of the largest circular pools in the world. Guests will find a full-service spa with a variety of treatments, as well as fitness and training rooms. Several dining options are available with something for everyone at Andrea, the Pelican Grill, and other eateries placed throughout the
GETTING THERE Sure, flights are easy to get for LAX, but save yourself some time and fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA). It’s a short drive from there to Pelican Hill, giving you more time at the resort!
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Ben Brown’s Golf Course (9 holes) This executive course is situated in a serene and natural setting, carved into the dramatic and lush walls of Aliso and Wood Canyons, creating an ultra-private playing experience with stunning views and elevation changes on every fairway. Speedy greens and a commitment to proper tee box and hole placement keep the game fast, fun, and inviting for golfers of all abilities. Great place for younger players! www.theranchlb.com/golf The Crystal Cove Beach Experience Complimentary coach service, including a beach bag equipped with towels and water from Pelican Hill make for a seamless day. Complimentary chairs & umbrellas are provided for you, and other amenities will be available upon arrival. www.crystalcovestatepark.org
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PHOTO COURTESY OF IRVINE COMPANY RESORT PROPERTIES
THE BACK NINE AT OAK CREEK GOLF CLUB STARTS WITH A GREAT RISK-REWARD PAR 5. MEASURING 525-YARDS FROM THE TIPS, THIS GENTLE DOG-LEG LEFT OFFERS A GENEROUS LANDING AREA. FROM THERE, PLAYERS MUST DECIDE IF THEY CAN GO FOR THE GREEN WITHOUT FINDING THE GIANT BUNKER GUARDING THE FRONT OF THE GREEN. THIS HOLE MAY LOOK LIKE AN EASY BIRDIE, BUT IT ISN'T.
THE BEST SHOT Oak Creek - Hole 10
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TWILIGHT ROUND
Sacramento, CA
THE LONG DAY
Timber Creek
Haggin Oaks
An 18-hole round at Timber Creek Golf Course is like playing two different courses. The front side of the Billy Casper/Greg Nash design plays around lovely waterfalls and ponds, while the back nine gets away from the water and winds through groves of trees. If you have time, neighboring Sierra Pines is a great nine-hole option.
Haggin Oaks is something of a golf mecca. In addition to two old school 18 hole golf courses, the facility features a 24/7 driving range, full service restaurant (I highly recommend the Bloody Mary), and a nationally recognized pro shop with just about everything you could ever need for your bag.
GETTING THERE
Sac Int’l
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is in a great location that’s quick and easy to get to. Nonstop flights are available from all over the West Coast. Once you’re on the ground, the airport features easy to find baggage claim and rental car services, as well as dining options and a collection of art that’s worthy of a museum. Get back early for your return flight to look around!
ARRIVAL FOOD
Swabbie’s
If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat and a drink before beginning your adventures, Swabbies on the River is a must. The weekends are when this restaurant really comes to life with a large outdoor seating area, live music, and plenty of food and drink specials. I recommend the street tacos paired with a delicious Pacifico. This is the kind of place where you’ll make new friends and probably not want to leave.
WHERE TO STAY
Lion’s Gate Hotel
Sure, there are plenty of brand-name hotels all over Sacramento, but why not stay someplace different? The Lions Gate Hotel offers luxury accomodations in Sacramento’s historic McClellan Park. Once an Air Force barracks, the Lions Gate features rooms, conference spaces, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a really great pool. Read more about the Lions Gate below.
LODGING DETAILS
THE LIONS GATE HOTEL This historic hotel offers a great deal on lodging and an experience you won’t find at one of the big chain hotels. Most importantly, the hotel features a pool that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day in the Sacramento sunshine. You’ll be surprised by the number of people you’ll meet just having a drink by the water. When you’re ready to head inside, you’ll have a hard time choosing between your room or the lounge.
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ONE LAST ROUND
GREAT 48
Teal Bend
Teal Bend is one of those amazing courses that truly makes you feel like your stepping away from the real world. This Sacramento gem boasts lush fairways and rolling greens that are lined by native trees and surrounded by natural wetlands. If you’re not hitting it straight off the tee, be ready to lose a few golf balls. And, it’s minutes from the airport!
Have time for a weekend golf trip and want to make the most of it? Let us show you where to land, where to stay, and where to play while you’re in a new city. We’ll make sure you don’t go hungry or thirsty.
CITY OF ART AND CULTURE
Sculptures
Before visiting Sacramento, I had no idea the city was such a magnet for artists of all kinds. One thing you’ll notice - if you’re paying a little attention - is that you’re surrounded by sculptures from the moment you get off the airplane. You’ll find art of every style throughout the city, but most notably in the historic downtown area. It’s a great place to walk and enjoy a nice happy hour.
DINNER TIME
Mikuni Sushi
After a long day on the golf course, Mikuni Sushi will hit the spot. Mikuni is more than just sushi, it’s truly a dining experience. For the best look at the food being prepared for you, I recommend a seat at the sushi bar where you can sip a cold Japanese beer and chat with the sushi chefs as they work. With nine locations to choose from, Mikuni is easy to work into your schedule.
ROOM THEMES
RESTAURANT AND BAR
There are several room types to choose from and each features a flight theme with photos from the air base’s rich history. Every bed is top of the line and the furnishings have recently been updated.
On a golf trip, it’s important to have easy access to breakfast and to a lively watering hole. The Officer’s Club provides both. Be sure you look at the entertainment schedule when you check in!
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Operation Pollinator Golf courses throughout the Pacific Northwest are turning waste areas into gorgeous habitat for bees and other wildlife
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everal years ago, Club Green Meadows in Vancouver, Washington decided to add natural grass areas to places that were difficult and time consuming to mow. A few of the areas were in play, but many were placed strategically between greens and tee boxes. The result was patches of long grass that browned during the summer. “We only mow the natural areas once a year,” said Superintendent Peter Goodling. “I thought it would be a good idea to add a little color and, at the same time, help give bees an improved habitat.” The decision was made to enroll in Operation Pollinator. The Operation Pollinator initiative was developed 15 years ago by Syngenta, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of agronomic systems for the golf industry. Participating courses can purchase specially selected
wildflowers designed to attract a variety of pollinators and provide habitat for small mammals and birds. “Most of the time, people think the habitat is only for bees,” said Syngenta Territory Manager Randy Rider. “But these plantings are also meant to attract butterflies and other natural pollinators.” With the bee population declining throughout the world and especially in the United States, it’s a good thing that Club Green Meadows isn’t alone in this endeavour. According to Rider, it’s hard to get an exact count on the number of Northwest courses participating. There are facilities that plant flowers and post signs, but many simply develop the habitat and then maintain them.
Encourage your course to join
“This is something that courses could really promote, but many of them are simply being good stewards of the environment and giving back to their local community,” added Rider.
If your local golf course or club isn’t already participating, take a few minutes to talk with your head professional or greenskeeper and let them know that you’d like to see more wildflowers on the course and more safe places for bees to live.
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Happy Hour Nothing goes better with a round of golf than great beers, fine wines, and tasty cigars. 3-WAY IPA | FORT GEORGE BREWING 2018 has been the summer of Hazy IPAs and this year’s 3-Way IPA has delivered. A collaboration between Fort George, Modern Times, and Holy Mountain, this beer is a light and refreshing IPA. You’ll love the Juice yeast combined with Simcoe, Citra, Comet and Ariana hops.
ROSE’ ALL DAY CORKS CRU WINE MERCHANTS A cold glass of Rose’ is synonymous with hot summer nights A Rosé worth discussing is a dry one. This simply means that the grape’s natural sugars have all fermented into alcohol. Nothing more, nothing less. Once that happens the final wine becomes a refreshing and delightful example of really, really light colored red wine - red wine that’s okay to drink cold, and drink often. Rose’ is available from producers locally and from across the Mediterranean. Each have their own intricacies and are worth a try. Visit www.corkscru.biz to see their current Rose’ specials.
OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CUBARIQUEÑO CIGAR Cubariqueno has added another cigar to its stellar Protocol line One of the world’s leading boutique cigar makers, Cubariqueno continues to impress with each new release. Official Misconduct, available in a beautiful 6x50 toro, is a medium/full strength blend wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with Nicaraguan binder and filler. The flavors - notes of cream, caramel, and spice - are incredible from the beginning. If you’re patient enough, you’ll even get a little coffee, cinnamon, and cedar at the finish. At less than $10 per cigar, Official Misconduct is great on and off the course.
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PLACES TO PLAY
Centennial
Medford, OR
Centennial was inspired by the classic designs from the Golden Age of golf couse architecture when such geniuses as Donald Ross, Alistair Mackenzie and AW Tillinghast were creating their master works. John Fought, Architect Despite being on Interstate 5 between Sacramento and Portland, Medford, Oregon is a bit of a trek. The town has been proactive, however, by adding things that will attract visitors from around the region like high-end sports facilities and a wonderful championship golf course.
generous fairways and greens and provides players with neverending views of the surrounding mountains. Four lakes come into play on eight holes, and more than 70 bunkers are strategically placed around the course to give players something to think about on just about every hole.
Since opening in 2006, Centennial Golf Club has been host to several Oregon Golf Association championships, and the annual Rogue Valley Stroke Play Championships. With reasonable rates year round, the club also offers a loyalty card that makes the club a great place for locals to play on a regular basis.
In addition to the course, Centennial also features an expansive practice facility where players can work on every club in the bag. The pro shop offers a comprehensive selection of necessities and the clubhouse grille gives golfers the chance to re-charge after a round while overlooking the 18th green.
Built on 400 acres, the 7,300 yard John Fought layout features
Centennial is the perfect road trip destination
The Home Course
Dupont, WA
When the Washington State Golf Association opted to build its own course, it cleaned up an environmentally sensitive area and built one of the best public courses in the state. Built at a former dynamite factory, the facility was part of the environmental remediation process. The course was finished and maintained for two years and, by the time it opened to the public in 2007, the fairways and greens were mature and ready for daily play. The walkable layout features scenic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Mt. Rainier. With six tee boxes -ranging from 2,239 to 7,424 yards -- the course was designed for golfers of all abilities. Wide fairways greet tee shots, but elevation changes make approach shots difficult to judge. On the greens, golfers face firm and fast conditions that,
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combined with some undulation, present a putting challenge. The par-four seventh captures every aspect of the course. An elevated tee shot leads down a steep hill that slopes from right to left and ends at the bank of a pond. There’s room left, but a long drive right or center will find the water. With the pond and two bunkers protecting it, the green runs severely from back to front and is one of the most challenging on the course. Tough but fair. Discounted rates are available for any member of the WSGA, or a Pacific Northwest Golf Association allied club.
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PLACES TO PLAY
Chimera
Las vegas, NV
The focus of Las Vegas is always on the iconic casinos. But, when you get away from the bright lights of the strip, you’ll find some great golf courses that offer experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Nestled in the foothills south of the famed Las Vegas Strip, Chimera Golf Club offers golfers amazing views and a spectacular challenge. Formerly the Tuscany Club, Chimera changed hands several years ago and received an upgrade that transformed it into a must-play when visiting the area.
Play These Courses Centennial Golf Club
1900 NE Phoenix Road Medford, Oregon 97504 877-893-4653 www.centennialgolfclub.com
Chimera Golf Club
Designed by Ted Robinson Jr, the 6,906 yard layout gets your attention from the moment you get out of the car. The driving range faces the Strip and Mt. Charleston, giving a glimpse of the view’s to come. The club also boasts a great restaurant and bar that are perfect before and after a round of golf. The first hole at Chimera is an excellent example of what golfers will see throughout the day. The generous fairway encourages an aggressive shot off the tee and the green, like many on the course, is elevated and requires a little more club to reach over the middle and
901 Olivia Parkway Henderson, Nevada 89011 702-951-1500 www.chimeragolfclub.com
The Home Course
2300 Golf House Road DuPont, Washington 98327 253-964-0520 www.thehomecourse.com
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back pin positions. It’s not the most scenic hole on the course, but it’s an excellent birdie hole to start your round. My favorite hole, pictured below, is the par-three 17th. At 159 yards, it’s not a long hole; but, with a waste area in front of the green and water to the right, it’s a challenging one. Golfers have options for how they’d like to get around the course. Most players will take a cart, but Chimera is a very walkable course. Players looking for something new can strap their bag to one of the club’s GolfBoards and surf their way around the course. For those visiting the area, Chimera is an excellent break from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Course conditions and rates are excellent all year and the club is constantly adding events and specials that make it a draw every day of the week.
JULY 2018
JULY 2018
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Nate Stember Oregon Junior Golf 21st Oregon Junior Stroke Play Nate Stember, a rising senior at Lincoln High School in Portland, overcame a two-shot deficit entering the final round.
Junior Golf Spotlight
Stember stayed steady on the front nine, getting to 2-under par for the tournament. His back nine featured two birdies and no bogeys, finishing at 4-under par for the event with scores of 7370-69 – 212 (-4). After two additional holes, Stember emerged with the victory – his secondconsecutive win after finishing on top at the previous week’s Oregon Junior Amateur.
State Champions Washington Junior Golf Clayton Thatcher and Adithi Anand claimed the 16-18 boys and girls crowns in the 42nd Annual Washington Junior State Championship. After 54 holes, Thatcher stood at the top of the boys division with a total score of four under par. He shot a final round 68 to get there. Anand put together a second round 66 and finished as the only player under par after three days.
Jonas Bicknese Utah Junior Golf
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US Junior Amateur Qualifying Jonas Bicknese, a junior at Fruitland High School, punched his ticket to the US Junior Amateur. Shooting a two-under 70 -- the only sub-par round of the day -earned him a trip to Baltusrol Golf Club in New Jersey. Unfortunately, Bicknese wasn’t able to keep the magic alive on the east coast. He failed to advance out of the qualifying rounds after carding scores of 84-85.
If you find a junior golfer that needs to be featured here, please let us know! It can be a player from your local club or an outstanding high school player. Send your nominations to juniors@nwgolfadventures.com. A big thank you to Oliver Insurance for sponsoring this feature. Oliver Insurance is proud to support youth athletics throughout Oregon, Washington, California, Utah and Arizona. Learn more on the next page!
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JULY 2018
JULY 2018
www.nwgolfadventures.com
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