CHIP SHOTS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
NEW APPRENTICES
The South Florida PGA would like to welcome the following new apprentices to the Section: Jeremiah Hicks B-8 Osage National Golf Club Chad Lubart B-8 Parkland G & CC
QUARTER CENTURY CLUB
Congratulations to PGA members Jeffrey Gunning, Gerry Knebels and Kevin Gibson who were elected to the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. Congratulations!
CONTACT US
CERTIFICATION COMPLETION
Congratulations to PGA member Shawn Costello who has successfully completed the requirements for becoming certified in Instruction through The PGA Certified Professional Program. Congratulations also to Jarryd Wood who has successfully completed his requirements to become certified in Instruction. Congratulations to Danny Visconti who has successfully completed his requirements to become certified in Golf Operations through the PGA Certified Professional Program. Congratulations to Shawn, Jarryd and Danny on their accomplishments.
IN REMEMBERANCE
We offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of SFPGA Life Member Catherine Ransavage, who passed away at the age of 74 on August 14th, 2013. Catherine is survived by her son, Craig Ransavage. Our most heartfelt sympathies to all who mourn Catherine’s passing.
PROS ON THE GO
PROFESSIONAL TO FROM Clayton Rodgers, PGA A-1–Cedar Hammock G & CC A-8–Forest Glen CC Brady Fennel, PGA A-1 – Palmetto Pine CC South Central Section Jeremy J. Wiernasz, PGA A-4 – PGA Golf Club Rocky Mountain Section PGA Brian Govi, PGA A-1 – The Club at Emerald Hills Dual Head Professional Dual A-1 – Madison Green GC Michael Raber, PGA A-1 – Glen Eagle G & CC A-4 – Shell Point GC Preston West, PGA A-1 – Southwest Section PGA A-4 – Westin Diplomat Resort Mike Schuette, PGA A-1 – Riomar CC, Vero Beach Minnesota Section PGA Sean Gradomski, PGA A-4 – Westin Diplomat A-4 – Unaffiliated Section
NORTH AMERICAN ONE-ARMED GOLFERS ASSOCIATION HOLDS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN PALM BEACH GARDENS
Back in 1999, a handful of one-armed golfers competing in a National Amputee Golf Association tournament in Birmingham, Ala., decided they were at a competitive disadvantage. “There were about six or eight of us and 120 leg amputees, and when we talked about it, we decided something was not right,” said John Barton of Palm Beach Gardens. “So we decided to form our own organization.” Thus Barton became one of the 75 charter members of the North American OneArmed Golfers Association, which will hold its annual meeting and tournament this week at PGA Resort and Spa. The NAOAGA now boasts 300 members, many of whom are ex-servicemen who have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan Warren Bottke, PGA, teaching at the having lost limbs to IEDs. With a nod toward that group, the Hand for Heroes clinic for the blind NAOAGA in 2008 began Hand for Heroes clinics, one of which will be conducted for blind and vision-impaired vets who will make the trip out from the VA hospital in West Palm Beach. SFPGA President, Warren Bottke, volunteered his time to help give instruction to the blind and vision-impaired vets who participated in this year’s clinic. As for the level of play, two competitors have two handicaps and a number of others are in the single digits. Defending champs are John Trenchik of Ohio in the assisted category and Vince Biser of Maryland, who has won the unassisted flight four years running.
SOUTH FLORIDA SECTION 186 Atlantis Boulevard Atlantis, FL / 33462 PHONE / FAX 561-729-0544 / 561-729-0914 EMAIL sflorida@pgahq.com WEBSITE www.sfpgagolf.com PRESIDENT Warren Bottke, PGA VICE PRESIDENT Mark VanDyck, PGA SECRETARY Donald Meadows, PGA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Brian Peaper, PGA SOUTHERN CHAPTER PRESIDENT Bob Mallek, PGA SOUTHEAST CHAPTER PRESIDENT Neil Lockie, PGA SOUTHWEST CHAPTER PRESIDENT Dan Gawronski, PGA ISLAND CHAPTER PRESIDENT Aaron West, PGA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Geoff Lofstead ADVISORY BOARD Paul Anderson Rick Bayliss Steve Sponder Ken Kennerly Matt Lambert Peter Lund
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FOUNDATION NEWS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER TEAM GOLF IS A HOME RUN!
On Saturday, August 17th, Indian Spring Country Club in Boynton Beach hosted 83 players for the first ever South Florida PGA Team Golf Championship. Sixteen teams from around South Florida came together for the first time all season. With over 190 participants in the first year, the South Florida PGA conducted 21 events throughout the summer months, seven each in three regions: Northern Palm Beach, Southern Palm Beach, and West Coast. At each event, teams earned points to determine the place they finished. At the Championship, the points race team winners were announced. The Northern Palm Beach winner was the Pla Acadmey Knights coached by Sherri Pla; Southern Palm Beach was team Bear Lakes CC coached by Jon Ellingwood and Stanley Wilson; and the West Coast winner was the Tour Academy @ Tiburon coach by Tom O’Brien, PGA. Team Bear Lakes CC also claimed victory for the Team Golf Championship. Now that summer Team Golf is over, the South Florida PGA will be hosting a few events in the fall for teams that have expressed interest in continuing. As of now, there will be 4 events on the West Coast and 4 in the Northern Palm Beach region. The 2014 season is set to begin with team practices in May. More information about the 2014 season will be announced in the coming months. Coaches have shared comments that “Team Golf is the best developmental program the PGA has come out with,” and “Team Golf is a Home Run!” Team Golf is planned to double in size, if not triple for 2014. Facilities do not have to have an existing program, or juniors, to participate in Team Golf. The SFPGA has made contacts with local organizations and can help in recruiting juniors to your program. All those interested in learning how they can become a part of Team Golf should contact Meredith Schechter at 561-729-0544 or mschechter@pgahq. com.
TEAM GOLF THANK YOU!
We would like to thank all of our PGA Professionals who coached teams this year, hosted events, and helped us grow the game.
HOST PROFESSIONALS
Admiral’s Cove – Sean Burke-McDermott, PGA Arrowhead – Rodney Bungartz, PGA Atlantis Country Club – Todd Leckrone, PGA Bear Lakes – Ted Strelec, PGA Golf & Racquet Club – Derek Niszczak Grey Oaks – Karl Bublitz, PGA Indian Spring – Mike McLellan, PGA Jonathan’s Landing @ Old Trail – Jim Leary, PGA Mayacoo Lakes – Cary McGaughey Mirasol – Roger Kennedy, Jr, PGA North Palm Beach – Lee Stroever, PGA Okeeheelee Golf Course – Mary-Lee Cobick Old Marsh – Tom Dyer, PGA Palm Beach Par 3 (2 events)–Tony Chateauvert, PGA Pelican’s Nest – Christian Sheehan, PGA PGA National – Jane Broderick, PGA Stoneybrook – Jeff Nixon, PGA The Club at Renaissance – David Kent, PGA The Colony – Craig Morton, PGA The Vineyards – Tom Metzger, PGA Coaches
TEAM COACHES
Ryan Angarola, PGA Jordan Ball, PGA Rodney Bungartz, PGA Paige Caldwell, PGA Mary – Lee Cobick, LPGA Jon Ellingwood Drew Giles Ben Kitts, PGA Todd Leckrone, PGA Neil Lockie, PGA Matt McCarthy Casey Mitchell Valerie Moore, PGA Jeff Nixon, PGA Tom O’Brien, PGA Mike Ortega, PGA Sherri Pla Will Reilly, PGA Lee Stroever, PGA Bob Usher, PGA Danny Walsh, PGA Stanley Wilson Franki Youse, PGA
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CHIP SHOTS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER DON LAW AND JIM MCLEAN TO BE INDUCTED INTO SOUTH FLORIDA PGA HALL OF FAME Legendary South Florida PGA Professionals and local golf advocates Don Law and Jim McLean are the newest members elected to the SFPGA Hall of Fame. Both men will be honored at the SFPGA Annual Awards and Hall of Fame Dinner in November (location and time to be announced). Law and McLean will be the 30th and 31st inductees since the SFPGA Hall of Fame was created in 2002. The SFPGA Hall of Fame recognizes individuals that have significantly impacted the golfing lives of the south Florida community through dedication and contributions to the game of golf. Individuals are first nominated by a nominating committee and then voted on by a committee made up of current Hall of Fame members and SFPGA Executive Board members.
Don Law of Boca Raton has dedicated his entire professional career to educating and developing the next generation of junior golfers. PGA member since 1993, Law has rapidly become the face of junior golf in South Florida. “To see a kid new to golf light up with a sense of success is what turns my gears,” says Law. “I took over a junior program in Anchorage Alaska in the summer of 1987 and it really changed my life and career; it’s all I’ve wanted to do ever since.” Throughout Don’s tremendous tenure in golf, Law has singlehandedly provided thousands of juniors with the opportunity to learn, play, and enjoy the game of golf. Through his service as the South Florida PGA Junior Golf Chairman for 12 consecutive years, Law has overseen the tremendous growth of many junior golf programs on a local level. Don Law not only manages four of his own golf academies in South Florida but also oversees all golf instruction at Club Med Academies in Port St. Lucie. In partnership with his wife, Diana, Law also organizes and operates a US Kids Golf local tour in Port St. Lucie. Law was one of the founding members of the SFPGA Junior Tours and has been instrumental in promoting and growing the tour from 103 members in its inaugural year (2001) to two elite tours and nearly 500 members in 2013. In 2012, Law received the highest honor in junior golf development by earning the PGA of America’s 2012 Junior Golf Leader Award. The award was established in 1988, recognizing the PGA Professional who is a leader in junior golf and who reflects the ideals of those who work with the youth of the game. Law has also served on the PGA National Junior Committee for 3 years. In addition to being nationally recognized for his dedication to growing the game through junior golf, Law in no stranger to receiving honors at the Section level. Law was named the South Florida PGA Golf Professional of the Year in 2011 as well as receiving the Section’s Junior Golf Leader award in 2001, 2007, 2009, and 2010. Law was awarded the Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2006 which recognizes the professional whose overall commitment is to promoting the game, the Association, and fellow PGA Professionals. “I am extremely honored to join the great line up of exceptional members of our Hall of Fame,” says Law. “To be recognized in this way is far beyond any dreams I had when I wanted to join the PGA. I must be the luckiest guy alive!” For his innumerable contributions to junior golf development on both a local, Section, and national level, Don Law will be honored as a Class of 2013 inductee into the South Florida PGA Hall of Fame. Jim McLean is recognized for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the game in South Florida and nationwide through his impressive achievements on the course and off. Through instruction at Jim McLean Golf Schools across the nation, McLean is recognized as one of the industry’s leading teaching professionals. McLean’s playing achievements include being one of the few people in history to qualify for the US Junior, US Amateur (4 times), US Open (2 times) and US Senior Open. McLean competed as a member of the PGA Tour in 1982 and has competed in and made the cut at the Masters. Additionally, McLean has qualified for the PGA Professional National Championship on 10 occasions. A PGA member since 1978 and PGA Master Professional since 1990, McLean’s impressive professional career is highlighted by the honor of being named the PGA of America’s National Teacher of the Year in 1994. He was also named the South Florida Section PGA Teacher of the Year in both 1996 and 1998. In 2011, McLean shared his research and instruction expertise at the SFPGA bi-annual
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CHIP SHOTS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
HALL OF FAME CONT...
teaching symposium. Some of McLean’s other impressive accolades include: Member of the National PGA Teaching Committee, National PGA Education Committee and National PGA Awards Committee. McLean is an Instruction Editor for Golf Digest and an Instruction Editor and Advisor for The Golf Channel since its inception in 1995. He was the Master Instructor for Golf Magazine from 1990-1997 and was an Instruction Writer for Golf Illustrated for five years. McLean is also recognized for his achievements in golf media through instruction tools, methods and research on the golf swing. Coined terms such as the X-Factor and Y-Factor have influenced the way PGA Professionals across the nation teach the golf swing. His Eight Step video is the all-time best-selling video on the Golf Channel and the #1 golf DVD in America. McLean’s ‘Eight Step Swing’ book was ranked by Sports Illustrated as one of the top golf instruction books of the 20th century. In addition to being recognized for his work with national golf media, McLean is known for his extensive work with many of the industry’s top teachers including Jimmy Ballard, Butch Harmon, Bob Toski (SFPGA Hall of Fame, Class of 2006) and many more. He also receives acknowledgment for his impressive work with more than 100 PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and Senior PGA Tour players including Tom Kite, Sergio Garcia, Cristie Kerr, Gary Player, and Keegan Bradley. Since 2006, McLean has also showed unwavering support for growth of junior golf in South Florida by providing two annual scholarships for one boy and one girl in South Florida to attend the Junior Elite Golf School at the Jim McLean Golf School at Doral. Provided through the South Florida PGA, this scholarship has provided 14 talented juniors the opportunity to receive first-class instruction at one of the Junior Elite Golf Schools provided throughout the summer. His contributions have propelled these talented juniors of South Florida to further their golfing abilities and passion for the game. For his enormous impact on the golf community through teaching both in South Florida and across the nation, the South Florida PGA welcomes Jim McLean as a member of the South Florida PGA Hall of Fame, Class of 2013. The South Florida PGA Section will induct both Don Law and Jim McLean as part of its Annual Awards and Hall of Fame dinner in November.
JOHN CALABRIA NAMED 2013 FLORIDA STATE SENIOR HONOREE
John Calabria, PGA General Manager at The Golf Club at Fiddlers Creek in Naples has recently been named the 2013 Florida State Senior Honoree. John’s devotion to the game of golf and its growth make him a deserving recipient for this award. John will be honored by participating in the Bobby Goodman Memorial Pro-Am on October 17th where he will be honored at the awards reception following the tournament. A PGA member for 35 years, Calabria has been an active member of the South Florida Section of the PGA. He began his tenure in South Florida helping to create Naples National Golf Club from paper, out of the ground from 1993-2002. As Director of Golf at Naples National Golf Club, he helped provide a vision for the construction of the club as well as the club’s membership base. Through Calabria’s dedication to this facility and his relationship with both the membership and the many young PGA Professionals who Calabria had the opportunity to mentor, Naples National continues to be a world-class facility. After leaving Naples National in 2002, Calabria began as the Director of Golf at Talis Park Golf Club also in Naples. Calabria remained at Talis Park until 2005 when he transitioned to the Director of Golf Operations and Sales role at The Golf Club at Fiddlers Creek where he currently grows the teaching and playing abilities of all of the employees he manages. “I accept this award on behalf of my good friend Victor Tortorici who I know is the man behind this.” says Calabria. Calabria firmly believes that the most important benefit that being a member of the PGA provides is the camaraderie and fellowship that is built between the PGA brotherhood. He has built his career around the philosophy of, “Teach, play, take care of your members, and help your assistants succeed.” Calabria believes that this is the most valuable asset you can provide the next generation of golfers to help continue to grow the game in years to come. He has based his mentorship philosophy off of his own mentor of the game and coach, Chuck Hart, and the relationship he maintains with the Hart family. Calabria’s extensive success on the course has provided a solid foundation for his career as a PGA Member. Calabria has competed successfully on the PGA Tour and participated in 19 Major Championships. He not only continues to play, but play well. Calabria, at the age of 65 finished in a tie for 17th at the South Florida PGA Section Championship this past week. When asked how he manages to keep his game is such great shape as well as managing a successful business at his club, Calabria responded that, “with 14 hours in a day and 98 hours in a week to get done what you need to, there is no reason you should not be able to do both well.” Calabria also believes in keeping up with all of the new and upcoming golfers, equipment technology, and initiatives in the game. “I firmly believe that the golf professional needs to be the resident expert on the game of golf,” says Calabria. “When your members come into the shop on Monday asking if you saw what happened in the tournament this past weekend, you have to have something to talk with them about.” Calabria’s dedication to staying current with all golf affairs has helped him build lasting, personal relationships with his membership and employees. Through his successful playing career, his dedication to bettering every facility and employee he works with, and his long lasting impact on both growth of the game and his fellow professionals, we honor John Calabria as the 2013 Senior Honoree.
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CHIP SHOTS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
HORROBIN CLAIMS FLORIDA SENIOR OPEN TITLE
MAKING HISTORY
Peter Horrobin posted a tournament total of fourteen-under par 202 to capture the 2013 Florida Senior Open Championship at Interlachen Country Club and Shingle Creek Golf Club, on August 9-11. Earlier this summer Horrobin also claimed the title at the SFPGA South Florida Senior Open at Jonathan’s Landing Golf Club at Old Trail in Jupiter. Peter Horrobin, from Miami, fired a final round of five-under par 67 on Sunday to win by three strokes and take home the Peter Horrobin $5,000 first prize. Horrobin opened up the Championship playing Interlachen Country Club, where he would post a six-under par 66 to trail the leader by only one stroke. In the second round held at Shingle Creek Golf Club, Horrobin continued his steady play carding a three-under par 69, which included 5 birdies to go along with only two bogeys. After 36-holes of play Horrobin would trail the leader and SFPGA Professional, Dennis Meyer, of Estero, by one stroke heading into the final round. In the final round at Interlachen Country Club, Horrobin fired a final round of five-under par 67 and capture his first Florida Senior Open title. Doug Dunakey, of Port Charlotte, finished alone in second place posting rounds of 66-70-69, for a tournament total of eleven-under par 205. Gary Koch, of Tampa, and Kim Young, of Oviedo, finished tied for third place with a tournament total of nine-under par 207. Gordon Marshall, of Sarasota, took home low amateur honors after his rounds of 72-71-68, good enough for ninth place. Congratulations to all those who competed.
Sean Costello, PGA , Assistant Golf Professional at The Old Course and Broken Sound Club, is one of two individuals in history to successfully complete all four PGA Certification Programs provided by the PGA of America.
Sean Costello, PGA
During his time at The Old Course and Broken Sound Club, Sean Costello has successfully completed a Class A membership, run over ninety events at the club, and helped conduct and coordinate Senior PGA Tour events in association with the ALLIANZ Championship. Sean has been instrumental in the success in member outings and facility functions at the fast paced private club atmosphere of The Old Course and Broken Sound Club. We at the South Florida PGA offer Sean a congratulations for his accomplishments.
HABITAT FOR H U M A N I T Y BUILDS HOMES AND HOPE
PLEDGE TO SUPPORT JUNIOR GOLF AND THE SOUTH FLORIDA PGA FOUNDATION
Participating South Florida PGA Junior Tour members and their respective donors have risen over $1,500 in support of the SFPGA Foundation through the 2013 Birdie Club. In order to participate in The Birdie Club, players are must secure a pledge for every birdie they record throughout their official rounds in the South Florida PGA Junior Tour. Money raised in support of the SFPGA Foundation through The Birdie Club directly supports the provision of high-quality, affordable competitive junior golf in South Florida. Currently, Boca Raton native Michael Anthony Checo (13) leads the pack with 28 birdies and 8 pledges. Checo is the reigning Birdie Club champion, single handedly raising over $2,500 during the 2012 season. Checo, who recently suffered from a fractured collar bone, is facing stiff competition this year from Ocean Reef Club member Kris Fortis, of Key Largo, who has 29 birdies and 3 pledges. There is still plenty of time to participate, however! All pledges received throughout the year apply retroactively to all birdies achieved throughout the 2013 Junior Tour season. With 29 Junior Tour events ranging from February through December, opportunities to go low have never been more prevalent for South Florida junior golfers. If you know a deserving junior golfer, your pledge of support would be greatly appreciated. For pledge forms, more details and full 2013 Birdie Club leaderboard, please visit http://www.sfpgajuniorgolf.com/resources/birdie-club.
As contruction on the South Florida PGA Habitat for Humanity home comes to an end, we would like to thank each and every PGA Professional who came out to help make this dream possible for one South Florida family. After 10 successful build days we look forward to the official deadication ceremony which is scheduled to take place sometime in October. Look for more information to come.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT COME VISIT CLUB MED IN PORT ST. LUCIE!
All-inclusive resort located on the east coast of Florida between Miami and Orlando. A perfect resort for a family vacation, sports weekend or day at the spa. Club Med Sandpiper Bay is whatever you want it to be: a village to hang out and make friends, a sports center to improve your game, or a haven
where you can escape from everyday life. 18 Hole golf course, practice facility, 22 tennis courts, basketball, soccer field, fitness center, swimming pools and so much more. See our brochure for our golf, tennis and fitness academies by CLICKING HERE. For more information, email: dlaw@ clubmedacademies.com
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TOURNAMENT NEWS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER WESTERLUND CROWNED SFPGA PROFESSIONAL CHAMPION / SECTION CHAMPION
Jay Westerlund of Fort Myers overcame bogies on his first two holes of his final round on Wednesday, August 21st, rallying to win the 35th annual South Florida PGA Section Championship/ Professional Championship at the Jupiter Hills Club. This event was presented by Club Car, Mercedes Benz, and Omega and supported by Gulfstream Business Bank, Nike Golf, TaylorMade adidas Ashworth, Titleist FootJoy and The PGA Tour. It was the first SFPGA title for Westerlund, 32, PGA Membership Director at The Club at Renaissance, and it came just a week after he won the Southwest Chapter Stroke Play Championship at Bonita Bay Club East in Naples.
SFPGA President, Warren Bottke, and Jay Westerlund, with all 13 PNC qualifiers.
“I guess I’m on a roll,” Westerlund said. “To hang in there after the start I had today, that’s pretty cool. But now I have to go back to work tomorrow.”
Westerlund had a closing round of three under par 69 to win by five shots. He added birdies at the fifth and eighth holes to turn in par 36, birdied the 11th and 13th holes around an eagle at the par-4 12th when he holed a 135-yard 9-iron, bogeyed the 15th and parred in. Tied for second at 215 were former champions Alan Morin of Lake Worth and Gene Fieger of Naples, who closed with 69 and 72, and Richard Terga, Palm Beach, and Chris Trout, Fort Myers, each with 74 in the final round. Morin made five birdies and two bogeys, Fieger four a piece. Terga had four birdies, four bogeys and a double, Trout a birdie and three bogeys. Mike San Filippo of Hobe Sound, the first and second round leader, made two triple bogeys, closing the event with a 78, slipping into a tie for seventh at 218. Westerlund led 13 qualifiers for the 47th Annual PGA Professional National Championship next June at Dunes Golf & Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Brien Paquette of Vero Beach parred the first playoff hole to earn the final berth after he tied at 222 with John Nieporte of West Palm Beach. Other PGA Professionals who qualified for the event include, Morin, Fieger, Terga, Trout, Paquette, Jason Hrynkiw, Mike San Filippo, Jeff Waber, Tom Dyer, Paul Scaletta, Jerry Tucker, and Jared Blocker. 188 entries made it a record setting year as the largest field in SFPGA history. For complete results, CLICK HERE.
RINKER CLAIMS SENIOR SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP/SFPGA SENIOR PNC Lee Rinker shot a final round of eight under par 64 Tuesday, August 6th to win the South Florida PGA Seniors Championship and lead qualifiers for the PGA of America’s Senior PGA Professional National Championship.
The Head PGA Golf Professional at nearby Emerald Dunes, Rinker, 52, came from four strokes off the pace to win by three strokes at 136 on the Rees Jones course at the Breakers West Golf Club. Ken Martin of Wellington, the first round leader on a 68, was second with 71-139. “I played really well today and got a little lucky, too,” Rinker said. He made six birdies and eagled the par-5 14th hole with a 3-wood to the green and a 15-foot putt. He birdied Nos. 2, 4, 5, 11, 15 and 18.
Lee Rinker, Senior Section Champion/Senior Professional Champion with nine Senior PNC qualifiers
At the other end of the list of nine qualifiers for the Senior PNC, Brian Peaper of the Lost Tree Club birdied the first extra hole to grab the final berth among five players who shot 148. All qualifiers include, Rinker, Ken Martin, James Karr, Gene Feiger, Ric Nalyd, Victor Tortorici, Jerry Impellittiere, Chris Campbell, Brian Peaper, and Peter Beringer. The 25th annual national championship for PGA professionals 50 years and older is scheduled Oct. 10-13 on two courses in Virginia, Creighton Farms in Aldie and River Creek Club in Leesburg. Alternates are, in order, Jerry Tucker and Danny St. Louis. This was Rinker’s 14th SFPGA victory since 2002. For complete results, CLICK HERE.
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SFPGA JUNIOR TOURS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
HULLE AND SHRADER BEST THE FIELD IN SFPGA JUNIOR CHALLENGE TOUR EVENT AT BREAKERS WEST
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted Challenge Tour Event #8 at the Breakers Rees Jones in West Palm Beach, FL. A full field of 84 completed the 36-hole event uninterrupted as Mother Nature provided great conditions for the competition. Michael Hulle of Palm City claimed the Boys Overall title with an impressive twoday score of 148. His combined 74-74 bested nearest competitor Tyler Vaughn of Tequesta by six strokes. This was Hulle’s first Overall victory of the 2013 SFPGA Junior Tour Season. Shrader and Hulle
For Vaughn’s efforts and two-day 154, the Divisional 16-18 title was awarded. Second and Third place honors in the division were divided between a four-way tie at 155 between Daniel Tannenbaum, Shannon Boner, Jack Stubblefield and Oliver Vinograd. Via scorecard playoff, second place was awarded to Daniel Tannenbaum of South Miami and third to Shannon Boner of West Palm Beach. The Boys 14-15 divisional title race was also impacted by a scorecard playoff, as top honors were awarded to a tie at 156. Andrew Wade of West Palm Beach earned first place, while Tim Graham of Stuart took second. In third place, firing a two-day 158 was first time SFPGA Jr. Tour competitor Tom Bevington of Naples. However, the scorecards work in determining divisional winners wasn’t over yet. The Boys 12-13 champion was decided between Joseph Storey of Delray Beach and Michael Checo of Boca Raton. Checo came out on top via scorecard playoff. This was Checo’s first divisional victory and continues an impressive streak of top 5 finishes, which currently stands at six (one for every event he has played in 2013). Storey fired a personal best, two-under 70 in round to claim the first round lead and backed it up with a respectable, day-2 76. Third place was again decided by scorecard playoff and Jayson Iten of Naples topped AJ Sardina of Key Biscayne to claim the honor. Checo and Storey fired two-day 146’s, Iten and Sardina carded two-day 151’s. In the Girls Overall competition, Sydney Shrader of Naples claimed her first victory. Shrader fired an 81-77 to card a total score of 157, clearing her nearest competitor by 9 strokes. Tracy Peyton of Boynton Beach claimed the divisional Girls 16-18 title by recording a 167. Second place finisher Katie Gribbon, also of Boynton Beach, finished only one stroke behind at 168. Third place honors were claimed by Aventura resident Ariana Garcia with a 171. Hallianne Hobson of Fort Meyers claimed the Girls 14-15 divisional title by shooting a two-day, 169. The victory was determined by scorecard playoff, as Paige Lee Garris of West Palm Beach completed the competition in equal strokes. While Garris took home second place honors, third place was awarded to Jane Goldman of Boca Raton for firing a 184. Dana Williams of Boca Raton continued her impressive string of play, recording her fourth Girls 12-13 victory in a row. Williams set a blistering pace by recording a six-over par 78 in round one, and a two-over par 74 in round two. Following Williams was birthday girl Tamsyn Butler of Lake Worth. Butler’s 168 earned her second place and bested third place finisher Alexa Rivas of Miami by four. Many thanks to Danny St. Louis and his professional staff for all their assistance in conducting this event. For full results, CLICK HERE.
BRENNER AND HUBER CLAIM OVERALL TITLES AT THE CLUB AT POINTE WEST IN VERO BEACH
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted Challenge Tour Event #9 at The Club at Pointe West. A talented field of 70 juniors from across South Florida completed the 36-hole event this weekend in Vero Beach, FL. Harry Brenner of Boca Raton clinched the Boys Overall Title with a two-day total of 147. Brenner, a co-leader after round one, posted a round two, 74 to edge out fellow-competitor Blake Schmalenberger by one stroke. This was Brenner’s first Overall victory of the 2013 SFPGA Junior Tour Season.
Huber, Mark Camarene, PGA and Brenner
The Overall Girls Title was claimed by Abbey Huber of Port St. Lucie in her debut event on the SFPGA Junior Challenge Tour. Her impressive 77-75-152 landed her 10 strokes ahead of her nearest competitor and doing so, gained Conditional Status onto the SFPGA Juniro Championship Tour for the 2013 season. A huge thank you goes to Head PGA Professional Mark Camarene and the entire staff at The Club at Pointe West for so generously hosting such a spectacular event. A great thanks also goes to the many local PGA Professionals who volunteered their time to help conduct another successful event. For full results, please CLICK HERE. 7
SFPGA JUNIOR TOURS
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
CHO AND NOONAN TRIUMPH IN SFPGA JUNIOR CHALLENGE TOUR EVENT AT IMMACULATE HUNTER’S RUN
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted Challenge Tour Event #9 on the East Course at Hunter’s Run in Boynton Beach, FL. A strong field of 77 juniors completed the 36-hole event, which saw the Boys Overall champion decided by a one-hold, sudden death playoff.
Cho, Steve Pinger, PGA, John Oyler, PGA and Noonan
The winner of that playoff, Seonghyun Cho of Lakeworth, claimed his second Boys Overall championship of the 2013 SFPGA Junior Challenge Tour season. Cho, who fired a one-under par 70 in his final round, seized the victory with a birdie on the first playoff hole versus fellow competitor Luke Llaneras.
On the women’s side of the competition, Sarah Noonan of Vero Beach claimed her first Girls Overall title. Noonan fired a consistent 81-81 over the course of the two-day competition and bested her nearest competitor by two-strokes. South Florida PGA Junior Tour and its membership sincerely thank Hunter’s Run Golf & Racquet Club, John Oyler, PGA, Director of Golf and Steve Pinger, PGA, Head Golf Professional for their warm hospitality. For full results from the event, CLICK HERE.
LLANERAS AND ROBSON BEST FIELD AT BEAUTIFUL SAILFISH POINT GOLF CLUB IN STUART
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted Championship Tour Event #10 at Sailfish Point Golf Club in Stuart, FL. A strong field of 45 of South Florida’s most talented juniors competed over this two-day, 36-hole event at the beautiful and challenging Sailfish Point Golf Club. Luke Llaneras of Miami Springs claimed the Boys Overall title with an impressive two-day score of 144. His impressive first round, 69, was unmatched by any competitor over the two-day event. Nearest competitor Adrien Pendaries of Port St. Lucie finished two back with a 146. This was Llaneras’ second Overall victory; first of the Junior Championship Tour.
Victor Tortorici, PGA with Llaneras (above) & Robson (below)
For Pendaris’ efforts and two-day 146, the Divisional 13-15 title was awarded. Second and Third place honors in the division were awarded to Anthony Wells of Plantation with a two-day 151, and Kritsarin Oukosavanna of Port St. Lucie one stroke behind Wells with a 152. The Boys 16-18 divisional was awarded to Stuart native, Matt Lindahl. Lindahl carded a two-day 154 for the event. Second place honors was awarded to Brent Graham, also of Stuart for his two-day 157. Thomas Jabolonski of Boynton Beach earned himself third place in the Boys 16-18 Division after winning a scorecard playoff at 158 with fellow-competitors Brian Cullen of Jensen Beach and Pedro Gomez of Miami. In the Girls Overall competition, hometown hero Lucy Robson of Stuart claimed the Overall Title after besting fellow-competitor Kaely Krayeski of Wellington in a sudden death playoff. Both girls shot a two-day total of 151. Krayeski’s impressive performance earned her the Girls 13-15 Division Title. Krayeski bested the nearest divisional competitor by eight stokes. A second place honor was awarded to Palm City local Emily Faulkner after carding a two-day 158. Third place was awarded to Championship Tour rookie, Sarah Noonan of nearby Vero Beach with a two-day 172 total. In the Girls 16-18 Division, Mary Janiga seized the first place honors after an impressive second round 72. Her one-over-par 72 was highlighted by a hole-in-one on the 18th hole. This was Janiga’s second hole-in-one; first of the SFPGA Junior Championship Tour. Alexa Hammer clinched the second place title after carding a cool, two-day 156, and Lea Himpens of Port St. Lucie took home third place honors with a two-day 159. Huge thanks to PGA Professional and Director of Golf, Victor Tortorici, and all of his professional staff at Sailfish Point GC for hosting such an outstanding event. For full results from this weekend’s event, CLICK HERE.
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RULES WITH DREW
TOPICS NEWSLETTER
THE BIGGEST LITTLE RULING This past month I was invited by the PGA Tour to work the Reno-Tahoe Open at Montreux Golf and Country Club in Reno, Nevada. It was truly an honor and privilege to get the opportunity to officiate at the highest level. While it was a pretty quiet week for me as a rules official, I did get the opportunity to make a few rulings. Before I explain one of the rulings I had, I just wanted to put in a plug for Reno. For those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to visit, it is truly a wonder place. And I’m not even taking about the casinos. In fact, I didn’t go within 10 miles of one all week. Reno is known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” mainly for its casinos and gaming however there is much more to it than that. I’ll start with weather. The forecast called for a high temperature in the upper 80’s to lower 90’s, but the day always started off a little on the chilly side. Cold enough in fact to have me sporting a sweater and jacket. As the day progressed I was able to shed some layers as it got warmer but I never broke a sweat. In addition to the great temperatures there was a zero chance of rain all week. I saw only one cloud in six days which I watched quickly evaporate. The weather wasn’t the only high point of the trip. It goes without saying, but the golf course was simply outstanding. The course was in absolutely perfect shape and the mountain views and elevation changes were breath taking. One last thing before I start to sound like I’m getting a kick back from the greater Reno-Tahoe Chamber of Commerce. Lake Tahoe is only about an hour drive from Reno and the views don’t get much better than the picture below. Overall, Reno was a nice change of pace from the hot, humid, rainy south Florida summer.
Lake Tahoe
As I mentioned above, the week was a little slow for me in the ruling department but that is actually how I prefer it. Fewer rulings usually means the pace is moving along rather smoothly. Over the four days of competition I had a few unplayable ball rulings, one lost ball ruling and a few obstruction relief rulings. One of the obstruction rulings I had occurred on the first hole of the final round. I got the call over the radio for a ruling in the first fairway. As I approached in my cart I could see that the player’s ball was in the middle of some bushes, so I assumed it would be another unplayable ruling. When I walked up to the player to ask how I could help, I saw an irrigation control box pretty close to the player’s ball so my mind immediately shifted to Rule 24 and obstructions. The player’s ball was also about 4 or 5 inches from a very dense bush. The player said, “I don’t have interference from the irrigation box for a swing towards the green but I clearly cannot play towards the green due to the bush.” He then said, “My only play is back toward the fairway but in doing so; I now have interference from the irrigation control box.” I agreed with him. I told him we needed to determine your nearest point of relief for a stroke towards the fairway and then after doing that you can drop your ball within one club length of the nearest point of relief, no closer to the hole. The player put a tee in the ground to mark his nearest point of relief and also put a tee in the ground to mark the outside limit of his one club length. I could tell that the one club length was going to be far enough from the irrigation control box where the player would no longer have interference and he would also be able to play towards the green. The player noticed it to and said, “Wow, this is the greatest break of all time.” Then the caddie asked, “The ball can roll up to two club lengths, correct?” I said, yes, it can roll up to two club lengths from where it first strikes the course. The player picked up his ball, handed it to his caddie to have it cleaned and then dropped the ball right on top of the tee defining the outside limits of the one club length. The ball hit the tee and rolled back about two inches into a perfect lie. The player said, “Great, ball’s in play?” I said, “No. The drop didn’t count because it landed outside the one club length.” The player said, “But it hit the tee.” I said, “I know, but in doing so, it also landed outside the one length area, thus the ball needed to be redropped.” 17th at Montreux Golf & CC The player’s shoulders slumped a little in disbelief. He picked up the ball and tried the drop again. This time the ball landed just inside the one club length area defined by the tee but unfortunately rolled about a foot forward right next to another bush. The player then looked at me and said, “I get to re-drop since the ball rolled closer to the hole, right?” I said, “While the ball did roll towards the hole, it did not roll closer to the hole than the nearest point of relief requiring a re-drop. There for, I said, that ball is in play.” This time the player shook his head in disbelief. He didn’t say a word so I turned around and headed back to my cart. It is important to note that it is not necessary to put tees in the ground to mark the nearest point of relief or the one club length area in which the ball must be dropped, however it is a good practice to help determine when a re-drop is necessary (Decision 24-2b/2). Unfortunately for this player, the tees hurt him because it allowed me to determine that the first drop was dropped outside the permitted area. Had he not put any tees down, it would have been a judgment call as to whether or not the ball was dropped outside the allotted area. The player’s ball came to rest right at the base of another bush in what I considered to be an unplayable position, especially for a shot towards the green. He attempted the shot towards the green and shanked his ball into a lateral water hazard on the opposite side of the hole. Overall, I really enjoyed the experience and I was extremely thankful to get the opportunity to learn and work with some of the best officials in the business.
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NEW AND UPCOMING UPCOMING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES Biennial Teaching Symposium Presented by Orange Whip October 9-10, 2013 The Country Club at Mirasol, Palm Beach Gardens
Schedule: Wednesday, October 9th – 1 PM – 5 PM Thursday, October 10th – 8 AM – 4 PM Speakers: Claude Harmon III – TPI Certified Instructor at The Floridian Pat Goss – Director of Golf at Northwestern University Will Robins, PGA – Will Robins Golf Tim Kremer - The Spirit of Golf Dr. Tom LaFountain, PGA – Professional Sports Care More information: - Cost $150 (includes refreshments continental breakfast and lunch) - 12 MSR Credits will be received for attending - CLICK HERE to register now!
TOPICS NEWSLETTER UPCOMING CHAPTER EVENTS
GGS Cup Series #1 *Rescheduled* Golf Club of the Everglades Friday, September 6th GGS Chapter Series #4 Miromar Lakes Golf Club Monday, Septmeber 16th Chapter Match Play Championship Hideout Golf Club Tuesday-Thursday, September 24-26
The Palm Beach Open Bear Lakes Country Club Saturday-Sunday, September 21-22
1 Pro-1 Am Bahia Beach Sunday, September 1 Casa de Campo Open Casa de Campo Thursday-Monday, September 12-16 Island Chapter Open Trump International Saturday-Sunday, September 21-22
Ocean Reef 2-Day Pro-Am Ocean Reef Resort Saturday-Sunda, September 14-15 Pro-Only #6 Deering Bay Yacht and Coutnry Club Monday, September 23
MSR OPPORTUNITIES
Looking for ways to earn more MSR credits? Volunteer your time with the SFPGA Junior Championship and Challenge Tours. PGA Members and Apprentices earn 1 MSR credit/hour they are able to volunteer. On course responsibilities include monitoring pace of play, assisting with rulings, and starting. To volunteer, please call JoAnna Smith the section office at 561.729.0544 or email jsmith@pgahq.com. Upcoming voluteer opportunities include:
- Junior Challenge Tour Event #10 - Worthington CC - Bonita Springs - September 7-8 - Junior Championship Tour Event #11 - Banyan GC of Palm Beach - WPB - September 21-22 - Junior Challenge Tour Event #11 - Polo Club of Boca Raton - Boca Raton - September 28-29 - Junior Challenge Tour Event - Grey Oaks CC - Naples - October 5-6 10