Tee times april 2014 by Joe Hall

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April 2014 Keeping Golfers Connected in TN, KY, MS, AL, NC

April 2014

Best golf in the Smokies Page 2

Inside!! Prepping for the future: New facility looks to help mold junior golfers

Live and play in L.A. (lower Alabama): There’s great golf along Alabama’s Gulf Coast

End of an era: Jack’s Golf Shop closes

Come on down: TPGA Section announces award winners

April 2014

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Try Sevierville Golf Club, ‘the best in the Smokies’ By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor Maybe it’s time to start thinking outside the box when it comes to golf destinations. Why not? After all, who says all great golf has to be played with ocean vistas or along one of the numerous golf trails that have sprung up across the country. No, there’s great golf to be played everywhere, and one of the up-andcoming “destinations” is just a short drive from middle Tennessee. The Sevierville Golf Club is one of those new ‘must-play” venues for mid-state golfaholics. Opened in 2011 and going strong, this 36-hole venue offers everything a player wants in a golf getaway, mainly two distinct, yet quality courses to challenge everyone from the a scratch player to the higherhandicapper. To be fair, golf isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Sevierville. Dollywood amusement/ music park, the Smoky Mountains and shopping probably are. But, Sevierville Golf Club director of golf Mark Wallace said slowly but surely the area is becoming known for its golf. “It’s not a crowded marketplace,” said Wallace, who has been on board the city-owned facility since August 2010. “It’s starting to become a destination, though.” Wallace points out that because the area is not inundated with golf courses it remains consumer friendly. “It’s good for the consumer,” he said. “Our prices are still low.” How low? In-season rates from April

Mark Wallace

Director of Golf through October are $59 at Sevierville Golf Club. That’s a bargain compared to what many high-end daily fee facilities charge in peak season. Sevierville Golf Club is located on the site of the former Eagle’s Landing. Renovated and redesigned by Gary Luscombe, 13 holes from that course were incorporated in the 36-hole relaunch, although Wallace said all were redesigned and upgraded. Six of the original holes are on the River Course, while seven are on the Highlands Course. The Highlands Course features six par 3s and it plays longer than the 6,372 yards listed on the scorecard. It opens with

two par 5s in the first three holes, giving players a chance to get off to a good start. The third hole is a 505-yard par 5 that is one of those “risk-reward” holes that entice a player to go for the green after a good drive that carries over water. The Highlands begins with five relatively flat holes near the Little Pigeon River and then begins its ascent into more hilly terrain. Water is evident or in play on 12 of the 18 holes, including the first seven. The Highlands features more elevation changes than its counterpart, but Wallace noted that “you aren’t playing on the side of a hill all the time.” The River Course is listed a 7,155 yards and water is evident or in play on 14 holes. Seven of the par-4s are listed at 400-plus yards, so bring your long-iron game. “Both of our courses offer a unique mix of water and mountains without being too mountainous,” Wallace said. “The big difference is the Highlands plays a little easier and quicker. The River course is more difficult and longer. We’ve got something to offer the higher handicapper and the single-digit handicap player.” Wallace said both courses, which feature bentgrass greens and Bermuda grass fairways, get plenty of play. “They are equally used and requested,”

he said. “You get a good view of the mountains from both courses.” Sevierville Golf Club is strictly golf with an excellent practice facility that includes a large practice green and chipping area. The club also offers high quality food and beverage service. Wallace was hired from Bent Creek golf course in 2010 to head the opening of the Sevierville Golf Club. He’s been a head professional for 30 years and still gives lessons, although he doesn’t play that much. “I truly love the game, and I get a lot of enjoyment out of making lives better,” he said. “The best thing about golf is that you can have fun and enjoy being with friends and family without being good, and all it takes is one or two good shots to make your day better. And, the aftergolf activities are always fun.” The staff includes Wallace, PGA professional Ashley McGaha and assistant professional Matt Poff. Wallace and McGaha are available for instruction, and Wallace emphasizes customer service as a top priority. “We’re pretty fortunate to be able to offer our guests a quality product,” Wallace said. “When you come to Sevierville Golf Club you get a private course or country club service and amenities on a daily fee

April 2014

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Meet the staff... a y McGofaeshsio Ashlead nal Golf Pr Title: He

D.J. Lerchen

Title: Golf Course Superintendent

tice Kenzie, Tenn. Hometown: Mc come a pro? I became an appren April When did you be d to Class A membership in cte in 2003 and ele lf at Sevierville Gou 2013 yo start working When did you w is this different from what ntal Ho Club? July 2003 e? I played on a few developmeal. club profession an were doing befor fore becoming a (mini) tours be u work in the past? I worked g Where did yo g three summers while attendin internship durinHouse Tennessee. golf college for Golf basic duties? Manage the ling, What are yourde guest services, schedu shop and outsi andising, etc. of 4. My dad g golf at the age inventory, merch sons? Yes I started playin ed to have a career in golf. e? les ag e at giv wh u yo at nt Do ke up the game, Mountains, the school that I wa When did you taerest in golf. I decided in high ille? I enjoy the scenic Smoky rv vie Se at g in rk influenced my int our area. ? It blossomed joy about wo What do you en & the many tourists that visitce becoming a 36-hole facilitys instead of one. ts, se sin en ur ed golf co friendly resid rville Golf Club blossom eat championship rtunities to host How has Sevie the opportunity to play two gr that offers many more oppo us to grow our ion les ns vil ab tro pa en pa d an ich se y wh by giving and new clubhou r practice facilit We also have a brevents. We have upgraded ou do because we of es typ us sort area? We rio y va e being in a re tourists that visit the Smok . ny junior programsy that you have an advantag ma ct ra att o als sa of play, we Would you job is good local base nt aspect of my not only have a year. e most importa to be happy and enjoy Th ? job ur ch yo ea of pect eryone Mountains t important as r staff. I want ev What is the moss with our guests as well as ou ion lat re r me custo facility. their day at our

basis.” Wallace said his club gets a diverse clientele. In the spring, much of the play comes from golfers from Ohio, Kentucky and Michigan, as well as from the surrounding area. In the summer, lots of play comes from Alabama, Georgia and Florida as golfers look to escape the oppressive heat. “It’s an interesting mix,” he said. “And in leaf season (fall), we get players from all over.” Another enticement for adding the Sevierville Golf Club as a stop on any trip is the abundance of accommodations the area offers. The variety includes everything from high-end condo rentals and hotels to more budget friendly hotels and motels. “You can set a budget and find something to fit it,” Wallace said. “The great thing is that any kind of accommodations you want are just two minutes from the golf course.” Of course, there’s plenty to do away

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Hometown: Washington, D.C. ville Golf Club On staff since: I came here in 2008 to Sevier and finish to complete the construction of the new golf course done with the the 36 holes we have now. When we were 150 acres and renovation of the course we had grassed over . completed the grow in of 25 new bent grass greens Golf Club in Work history: Spent 10 years at Stonehengentendent and Fairfield Glade, Tenn., first as assistant superi then as head superintendent. assistant Seals, Corey staff: Superintendent’s Joe Strickland, superintendent; Ed Loveday, head mechanic; William King, irrigation technician; Mike Craig, maintenance; mechanic. Daigneau, Seasonal staff: John Siebert, Carl Tyson, Paul l, Lavador Travis Myers, Rick Haun, David Haun, Buster Russel Wallace Sizemore, Don Walton, Daniel Butler and Codydrop me off at the course on his way to work when I was 13 years hit balls. After high How did you get your start: My dad would balls. In return they would let me play golf and old. I would take care of carts and picked up oro Golf Club and he influenced me to begin seeking an education Nashb and care for a golf school I started working for Lynn Ray at playing golf as a kid and decided that to work in Turfgrass Management. I have always loved ence. experi course would be a rewarding

Matthew Poff

Title: Assistant golf pro

fessional On staff since: Came to Hometown: Floyd, Va. Sevierville Golf Club: May, 2011 College: Tusculum Turned pro: 2012, Lev el Two, PGA PGM Appren I’ve been playing since? Age 7. My father got meticeship Program Work experience: Outside interested in the game early. services at Hidden summers during college and outside services at Valley Country Club in Roanoke, Va. as a youngster. Great Oaks Country Clu b in Floyd, Va. Duties at SGC: Assist organization, assist wit in managing pro shop, employee scheduling h youth golf camps/wo , res ervations, customer ser rks Who do you teach? I vice, tournament give both private and grohops, give lessons. Junior Golf Camps. up lessons as well as ass isti ng Ash ley, our head profession Advantage to being in al with that we would not have a resort area: Yes, being located in a resort in other places. are a allo ws us to have a broader target ma I like working at Sevierv rket ille Golf Club becaus our members and our guests. It’s enjoyable wo e: Our team works together to bring the bes club successful. rking with a team that t pos sible experience to is willing to put in the The most important asp extra effort to make the with lessons to prepare ect of my job is: Customer service. Whether them for the course, we sch strive to meet our customeduling a trip for a group or providing guests er’s needs one experience at a time.

from the course – whether it’s a family getaway or a buddies golf trip. From Dollywood, the Smoky Mountain Palace Theater and world-class shopping and dining to zip lining and fly fishing, there’s something to keep everybody busy and happy. Sevierville can also accommodate conventions or other business gathering with a convention center that has 108,245 square feet of exhibition hall space, a ballroom and four meeting rooms. “We’re becoming more of a destination for golf,” Wallace said. “More and more people are coming here for the golf. It’s a growing part of our business. It’s a central location and for the most part, you can play golf here 365 days a year. There’s great value here.” For information about the Sevierville Golf Club, call 1-865-429-4223 or 1-888710-1388.

Kathryn Piers

Title: Catering Sales Director

Hometown: Rock Hill, S.C. When did you arrive: September 2013 How long have you been in the food and beverage business: 9 years. My first job was a banquet server for a private catering company at 14 years old. How did you get into food and beverage at a golf course: We also are responsible for food and beverage services at the Sevierville Convention Center and were awarded this additional property by the City of Sevierville. Does being in a resort setting help: What is most helpful is the synergy between the convention center and golf club. Many of the large groups that attend the convention center for conferences, parties, meetings, etc. are also interested in golf outings and VIP parties at the golf club. Give us the name of the golf course restaurant: Mulligan’s. Have you changed the menu, if so how: We are in the process of a menu redesign that will include fresher ingredients and a golf themed spin on classic favorites. Do you cater or hope to cater to non-golfers of the area: Currently, all of our catering is done on premise at either the convention center or golf club facilities. What would most people never guess you had either done, achieved, enjoyed, or participated job out of college I sang in and recorded an album with a Christian music band that performed in: In my first in medium and maximum security prisons in South Carolina and also worked as a Community Outreach and Fundraising Director for a transitional housing program.

April 2014

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Opinion By David Widener Member Golf Writers Association of America

Injuries open door for underdog in Masters Snedeker could finally wear the jacket

By David Widener Senior Editor If you play golf, chances are you have experienced back pain. It goes with the territory because the golf swing is not a natural body movement. There are a lot of twists and turns. It has affected even the pros with the best swings. We bring this up because such pain forced Tiger Woods to withdraw from the Masters, which begins April 10. Woods has never missed the Masters and he’s won it four times, but this injury required surgery. Because of it, Woods has played just three events this year and was forced to withdraw in one of those. It has to be a bad injury to sideline Tiger. Remember the 2008 U.S. Open? He basically won on one leg in a sudden-death playoff, but then had to undergo knee surgery and missed the rest of the year. Plus, Woods plays some of his best golf at Augusta National. In 19 previous Masters, he missed the cut only once en route to his four championships. In the past nine years, Woods finished in the top 6 eight times, including tying for fourth at 5-under-par a year ago. His victories came in 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2005. The absence of Tiger at the Masters sent the Vegas oddsmakers back to the board. They had made him the 10-1 favorite with

Rory Mcllroy, who now is the 8-1 favorite to wear the Green Jacket this year. Defending champion Adam Scott, who beat Angel Cabrera in a playoff after both shot 9-under-par 279, is 10-1 along with Jason Day, but he’s nursing a thumb injury. Three-time winner Phil Mickelson (20042006-2010) is 15-1, but he also is ailing after pulling a muscle that forced him to withdraw from the San Antonio tournament. Mickelson tied for 12th place in Houston. With all the injuries, it opens the door for a longshot and that could be Nashville’s Brandt Snedeker, who is back for a seventh try at putting on the Green Jacket. He’s made the cut five times in his previous six Masters and has four Top 25 finishes including a tie for third place in 2008. A year ago, Snedeker tied for sixth by shooting 4-under-par. The Vanderbilt University graduate is a 30-l longshot, but his putting skills always make him a threat on the Bobby Jones course. And, watch out for Fred Couples even though he is now 54 years old. The guy just knows how to play Augusta National. He won the 1992 Masters and makes it a habit of being around on the weekend, having made the cut in 27 of his 29 starts. He’s shot under par in the last four Masters and finished in the Top 15 each time. A year ago, Couples tied for 13th in the Masters by shooting 1-under-par. In March, he shot 15-under-par in winning the Toshiba Classic on the Champions Tour. He appears on his game and can’t be overlooked at 100-1 odds.

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Cooper wins Classic Championship

The Nashville Industrial Golf League celebrated its 60th year with the season ending tournament last fall at Ted Rhodes golf course. League Secretary Earl Eaves hands out some of its many prizes from the event.

The Nashville Industrial Golf League celebrated its 60th year with the season-ending tournament last fall at Ted Rhodes golf course. League Secretary Earl Eaves hands out some of its many prizes from the event.

Rucker Betty, President Elect of Sertoma Club of Nashville, presents Joe Conard, sponsor of Conard Logistics with the Sertoma Club Civic Cup for 2013 season championship

Eric Bauder, Joe Hall, Pete Lutz, Tom Schwarz, Tom Davis - Conard Logistics

Don Franklin, Jerry Dennis, TJ Coffey, Tom Scholato Steinhouse Supply Kevin Overbey Wright Industries Todd Bowman Nashville Buisness Journal

Sam Sanders TDEC Larry Moody Bluemoon BBQ Conoly Brown Conard Logistics Steve Goins TDEC Morris Mayo MCP

Buster Bateman 4-Balls, 1-Cup

Bobby Lewis MCP Playoff winning team, Post Office: (left-right) Mark Daugherty, Mac Rochelle, Rick Gentry, Kim Alley, Dwayne Davis, Dave Swinney, Alex Rochelle, Daniel Alley

April 2014

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TaylorMade Performance Lab provides top-flight analysis By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor Having a good swing is paramount to playing good golf. So is having the correct equipment in your bag – not so much the brand but clubs tailored to specifications that fit your swing. And that’s where the TaylorMade Performance Lab comes into play. Closing in on two years in the Nashville market, Chase Brannon’s enterprise at the Gaylord Springs Golf Club is geared to make sure golfers of all skill levels are fitted with equipment that will help them Michael Vanderveer,(l.) Gaylord Springs maximize their talent. staff, and Chase Brannon, PGA Professional “Once you show people what and owner, TaylorMade Performance Lab. the club is actually doing through impact, it’s almost like A complete fitting session is $350 and an ‘Ah hah’ moment for them,” said Brannon, who owns the TaylorMade takes about 2 ½ hours. Motion sensors Performance Lab. “It’s pretty eye opening are attached and readings are taken as for most players. It’s amazing how many the player swings with a driver, 6-iron, sand wedge and putter. Those readings players are not being fit for clubs.” Brannon estimates that as many as 75 provide Brannon with valuable insight as percent of golfers play with equipment to swing speed, swing path and the angle of descent. There’s also 3-D imagery of that is ill-fitted for their game. “If you give a PGA Tour player the wrong the player’s swing. From the abundance of data, Brannon equipment, they aren’t going to shoot 64,” Brannon said. “They are going to shoot can glean the exact make-up of what clubs 70. It’s never going to be the end all, be would work best – from driver lofts and all, but you can improve your score with head to shafts. “We use that information to build golf having your equipment fitted instead of clubs and fit you off those specs,” Brannon just playing with stock stuff off the shelf.”

PUBLISHER Joe Hall pgegolf@bellsouth.net

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Hamilton

EDITOR Gregg Dewalt

TECHNICAL ADVISOR Jimmy Phillips

SENIOR EDITOR David Widener widecard@aol.com EQUIPMENT EDITOR Gary Farris

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carol Hall teetimescarol@bellsouth.net

said. “Our fitting matrix for shafts is probably the largest of any facility will ever see. I have 84 shafts just for the driver. If we can’t figure it out here, you probably can’t figure it out.” Brannon estimates he has 40 different shafts for fairway woods and 70 for irons. “It’s different than just regular or stiff flex,” he said. Brannon also does fittings for specific clubs – driver, irons,

Joe Hall, publisher of Tee Times fitted with electronic sensors, upper body to his feet.

This logo says it all, Motion Analysis Technology by TailorMade.

putter -- that aren’t as time consuming and don’t cost as much. The TaylorMade Performance Lab is open year-round from Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until about 6 p.m. Players who purchase clubs after a fitting receive a credit toward the price of the clubs. “We’re not selling a quick fix,” Brannon said. “Our customers are our customers. We know them by name and we get to their game pretty well. We want them to come back and we do everything we can to put a guarantee that this will help.”

Midstate’s “Best Course You Can Play” - GolfWeek Magazine

jonh2520@att.net

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Bill Dawson

PRINTING Franklin Web Printing Company FOUNDER - Joey Smith

P.O. Box 41293 • Nashville, TN 37204 • Phone: 615-331-1078 • Fax: 1-866-579-4932

Member: Golf Writers Association of America, International Network of Golf, Golf Travel Writers of America

Book your tee times today

615-458-1730 | GaylordSprings.com

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April 2014

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Program designed to help juniors prepare for college By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor

When seeking college scholarships, junior golfers better have their resumes filled with low scores and Barney Alary remembers a time in tournament experience. That’s how the not-so-distant past that a high much college golf has changed, and school golfer could average in the helping junior players prepare for upper 70s or low 80s and find some college is the impetus behind Alary’s type of college golf scholarship new “Old Hickory College Preps awaiting. Program.” Fast forward to today’s golf landscape The longtime teaching professional and that’s no longer the case. at Riverside golf course who recently moved to Old Hickory Country Club, started the program hoping to enhance the opportunity for junior players to land college scholarships. “Now, if you want to play college golf – even at a small college – you better be pretty good,” Alary said. “We want to get together once a week with a group of about 20 or 30 Garrick kids who are playing high Malone school golf or trying to play Barney and hoping to play in college.” Alary The idea is to teach the group how and what to practice, and to compete

among themselves so that when they have a 5-footer to win a tournament, they’ll have been in that situation before. Helping Alary with the program is Garrick Malone, another teaching professional who recently moved to Riverside. “I’m excited and pumped about it,” said Malone, who was a student of Alary’s while in Barney Alary, PGA Professional Garrick Malone, teaching high school and professional at Riverside stands near his new teaching facility has been teaching Golf Course, Old Hickory,TN. located at Old Hickory Country Club. for about six years. “To my knowledge, one of the kids plays great and wins a there really isn’t another program like tournament, I don’t want the others to this that will lead to beyond high school be upset or jealous. I want them to use and potentially beyond college.” that as motivation to keep working Malone calls his and Alary’s approach and getting better.” “holistic.” For more information, contact Alary “We’re not just teaching them a good at 615-594-8022. swing or a pretty swing, but we are going to help them become efficient in chipping and putting and pitching, help them with the mental game and with nutrition and with the physical game.” The plan, Malone said, is to evaluate each player in all aspects and come up with a specific program for that person. Alary said there will be meetings once a week – on Saturday during the school year and on Monday during the summer. Players will have access to his facility at Old Hickory, which has an indoor-outdoor building, and also Riverside. The first meeting in March attracted 14 students. Cost is $200 per month, which translates into about $50 per session. Sessions run from noon-5 p.m. during the school year and from 8 or 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the summer months. Details still are being worked out but Alary said his target age group is between 10-14. That provides ample time to develop players as they prepare to make a run at playing college golf. “We won’t turn down high schoolage players and we might accept a few kids under 10,” Alary said. “What I hope to achieve and create is for the kids to be competitive but I also want them to encourage one another. When

April 2014

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Too much information? See a professional Welcome back to Tee Times. We’re starting a new golf season and hope you are ready for another year of Tee Times. It wasn’t that long ago that the calendar turned over to 2014 and the avid golfers among us started dreaming of eagles, birdies and pars. By now you have scoured the golf landscape via countless mediums in search of more distance for your drives, more accuracy from your iron shots and a sure-fire method to sink more putts. With all that research, it’s likely you emerged more confused about how to achieve positive results than ever. Every new club on the market for 2014 is promising just that – how to shave strokes off your score and enjoy the game more. Equipment today is better – and more costly – than ever. So it’s important to choose wisely when it comes to grabbing that latest sure-fire club that will help you launch your drives 15 or 20 yards farther. One event sure to leave a person dazed and confused when it comes to technology is the annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla. There, a golfer can find just about any club, shaft or gadget with a guarantee to help you improve. The New Products zone at the Show is one of the best places to: A. See the latest swing aids being offered; B. Leave your head swimming with information overload. This year’s new product guide listed 27 instructional items new to the Show. I’m not here to endorse or ridicule any of them, but there are a plethora of gadgets now on the market-- from special glasses that will detect your head movement (EyeLoc Head Gear) to devices to help your putting stroke (The Navigator, Laser Putt). The NitroSwing Trainer enables the golfer to see, hear and feel the swing plane, swing path, club face and contact with every swing repetition.

It is, according to the press release, the most effective golf training device ever devised. That’s not to be confused with the Classic Swing Trainer or the Memory Swing Trainer. Obviously, a lot of these training aids are helpful. But too much information can lead to paralysis by analysis. We all want to get better, but remember there are no quick fixes in golf. If you really want to improve your game, invest in a visit to your local PGA teaching professional. Chances are pretty good he’ll provide you with the correct information to help you lower your score. Your second investment should include multiple trips to the practice range to work on what your professional has offered. Then, ask him about what newfangled gadget will help you get the most out of your golf game. And remember, golf is about having fun. So, get out there and grip it and rip it. Have a great year on the links .

Claassen, Srey given Paul Warren Award Tee Times report

Gregg Dewalt

TEE TIMES

collegiately at Lipscomb University, while sister, Lorie, played at Belmont University. Paul mother, Kathy, also played a major role in his development as a golfer as most moms do, making sure he made it tournaments, school and practice sessions. Upon his death, many in the community made a donation in Paul Warren’s name. His wife, Molly, decided that because of Paul’s love of golf and his involvement in the game that The First Tee of Nashville should be given a donation in her husband’s name. Bradford and The Tennessee Golf Foundation came up with the idea for the award, and the family agreed that Paul Warren would be honored to still be helping junior golfers. Two years later, the award has made a difference in the lives of four junior players.

The invitation was simple, classic and compelling. It read: Please gather with us as we remember our dear friend, Paul Warren, and honor two deserving junior golfers, Emi Claassen and Sarawaty Srey. In February, Claassen Paul and Srey were named the recipients of the second Paul Warren Memorial Award. The cash award is presented annually to one male and one female junior golfer in honor of Warren, who was killed in an automobile wreck in 2011. Warren’s wife, Molly, wanted to honor her husband’s memory, and with the help of Lissa Bradford and the Tennessee Golf Association, came up with the idea to help junior golfers. First-year winners Lauren Welch and Oliver Gore and their families attended the ceremony to announce the most recent winners. Both spoke at the function, showing how they used the cash award for school and for tournament fees. Warren was 28 when he was killed in the wreck. Golf was always a major part of his life. His father, Johnny, is These two First Tee of Nashville youngsters stand with their an acclaimed teaching families after the 2014 Paul Warren Memorial Award cerprofessional who owns emony and reception hosted by Lissa Bradford and The Tenthe Johnny Warren Golf nessee Golf Foundation. (l-r) Saravoth Srey, mother, Sarawaty Academy. Paul played Srey,Emi Claassen, Mark Claassen, dad, Joyce Claassen, mother, and camera shy Mac, 2 years old.

Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor

The Warren Family stands with the juniors from the First Tee Program who are the first of many to benefit from the Paul Warren Memorial Award. (l-r) Lorie Warren Drake, sister, Molly Warren, wife, Lauren Welch, Oliver Gore, Kathy Warren, Johnny Warren, parents and Jordan Drake, son-in-law.

April 2014

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Daryl Edens is our newest golf course manager and has been assigned to Shelby Golf Course. He is a PGA professional and most recently was assistant manager at McCabe Golf Course. We are excited to have Daryl move into a manager’s position and are confident he will bring a new level of excitement and customer service to the course. With the revitalization of East Nashville, the timing could not be better to have someone like Daryl take over the reins at Shelby. He is John Holmes building relationships with the community/ Assistant Director of Parks neighborhood organizations, as we want the citizens of East Nashville to feel like Shelby Golf Course is their course. The course is in the best shape it has been in years, and we look forward to increased play by all ages there. Daryl is married to Carol, and their daughter Evin plays on the Belmont University golf team. They also have a 14-year-old son Hello. did not decide to go with Ross, the draw- named Zack. My name is John Holmes, and I’m the assis- ings were kept by the Parks Department and Daryl wants to increase play, get the course tant director of Metro Parks – Revenue Pro- retired Golf Superintendent Danny Gibson user friendly, improve signage, and promises ducing Facilities. I began with Parks in 1985. found them and they were used in the design to cut the rough lower. He has added disOver my 30 years with Metro I have been in of Vinny Links. tance markers and even Porta-Potties. charge of HR and payroll for Parks, became Shelby Golf Course is known for its rolling “I want folks that played here once to come manager of the ice rink at the Centennial hills, tight fairways, and small greens. PGA back and check us out,” he said. “I want those Sportsplex, became manager of the entire tour player, Brandt Snedeker grew up play- that have never played to give us a try. I want Sportsplex and eventually added more rev- ing Shelby with his brother and father. When everyone to come away with a happy experienue producing facilities (i.e. Wave Pool, he won the U.S. Public Links Tournament, the ence, hopefully vowing to come back. I’m a Hamilton Creek Sailboat Marina). In 2002 trophy was given a place of honor in the Shel- people person, I believe a friendly smile will I became Superintendent of Parks with the by clubhouse and was on display for a year. be rewarded with a return smile,and good addition of Sports, field reservations and I wonder if it is possible that Snedeker cred- customer service goes a long way. Our perpicnic. In 2013 I was promoted to Assistant its some of his success at the Masters and sonnel will work to achieve the best experiDirector of Parks and golf operations were his play at Augusta National to his years of ence possible.” added. I have 2 kids, a son and a daughter, playing Shelby. It’s said he enjoyed Shelby Scott Merritt worked at Two Rivers for 30and as they grew up it allowed me more with its up-and-down rolling hills. Although plus years and moved to Shelby in February 2013. He and his staff have done a remarkable job of improving the playability of this historic course. The fairways and rough are in excellent shape and the greens continue to improve. He and his staff take a great deal of pride in what they are doing day in and day out for the golfers of Shelby Golf Course. Scott’s wife Donna is a substitute teacher at Donelson Christian Academy. They have five children, including Brennan who is the assistant superintendent at Two Rivers. Their other children are Brantley, Kaylynn, Mac and Jemison. Scott is proud of his multi-tasking small crew. “They need no direction; they are self-motivated and proud of this old Daryl Edens, Manager historic course,” he said. “Back in of Shelby Golf Course 2006 Tif Dwarf was installed on the time to pursue my passion of playgreens. They manage to take care of ing golf. My office number is 862this 18-hole course as well as the 8424 and I welcome any question 9-hole Vinny links. There’s never a or concern that folks may have in complaint from this crew of 5 which regards to anything Parks related. includes me.” I’m delighted to write this column Scott and his guys are about the about our Nashville Fairway Golf same age and have the same years (l.- r) Scott Merritt- Superintendent (34 yrs), Thomas Binkley Courses and our personnel. We working on a golf course. Suffice (20 yrs), Rick Howard-Assistant ( 18 yrs), Charlie Grantham have seven outstanding golf coursit to say, Scott says it gets in your (12 yrs), Wayne Butler (11 yrs). The 95 years of combined es that offer a variety of golfing exblood. He started working at age 19; service for this crew allows them to maintain two courses and periences to challenge all level of and this work is pretty much all that 27 golf holes. Super men according to their superintendent. golfers. he’s done. One of his favorite things For this article I want to share some infor- shorter than Augusta, the course is similar in about Shelby is his love of the rolling hills mation with you about Shelby Golf Course that it has few level lies. and the history of Shelby. in East Nashville. Shelby is the oldest pubBeing an avid golfer, I enjoy being at the So, if you see the maintenance crew, tip lic course in Nashville. Built in 1924, the courses and talking with the personnel, both your hat. They want you to enjoy yourself. course architect was George Livingston. An inside the clubhouse and outside on the When leaving your cart, step inside and let interesting fact is that World Renowned ar- course. To that end I would like to introduce Daryl and his staff know that your round of chitect Donald Ross was in Nashville about you to two guys who share many years of ex- golf was a wonderful experience. that time working on Bellemeade and did pertise in the golf industry, Daryl Edens and Until next time, keep it in the fairway, some drawings for Shelby. While the city Scott Merritt. John Holmes

Around Nashville Fairways

Edens, Merritt on board at Shelby Golf Course

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Shelby Clubhouse

Harpeth Hills 2424 Old Hickory Blvd. • 615-862-8493

McCabe 46th & Murphy Rd. • 615-862-8491

Percy Warner Forrest Park Dr. • 615-352-9958

Shelby 20th & Fatherland • 615-862-8474

Two Rivers Two Rivers Parkway • 615-889-2675

Ted Rhodes 1901 Ed Temple Blvd. • 615-862-8463

VinnyLinks 2009 Sevier Street • 615-880-1720

Metro Parks Nashvillefairways.com

April 2014

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TEE TIMES

Cumberland University building a tradition Tee Times report Rich Williams has spent 19 years in the golf business in just about every capacity imaginable. He’s been an assistant professional and a head professional. He’s been a manufacturer’s sale rep and managed a golf retail store. In January 2013, he added assistant golf coach at Cumberland University to his resume. A year later, he has a new title – men’s and women’s coach at the small private school about 30 miles east of Nashville. Williams took over last fall when Scott Wilkerson retired after 10 years as the head coach. Williams inherited a quality program at the NAIA school that was founded in 1842 and offers a variety of educational, athletic and social experiences to enhance the learning opportunities of the current student body. The university has an exceptional academic program steeped in the liberal arts. Athletic teams regularly compete for conference and national championships. The Bulldogs are a member of the Mid-South Conference, and they opened their men’s and women’s season recently with strong performances. After a solid fall season in which the men’s team won 3 of 4 tournaments and was second in the other while compiling a 33-1 record, it opened the

spring ranked No. 21. Cumberland finished second in the Trevecca Spring Invitational as Austin Garrett and Ryan Botts finished tied for second at 148 in the individual standings. Cumberland’s women’s team, which has been ranked as high as No. 12 as recently as 2012, is not ranked going into the spring season but opened up with a fourth-place finish at the Tennessee Wesleyan Spring Invitational. Katie Legge shot 165 over 36 holes to finish tied for third place. Quincy Hogan notched a 14th-place finish at 176. Williams is recruiting hard in Tennessee. His men’s roster includes only one player from out of state. The same applies to the women’s team, and Williams has a strong freshman class ready to tee it up in the fall with three of the top Class AA players in the state set to join Legge, who is completing her junior year. Legge logged a 33rd-place finish in the 2013 NAIA national tournament. Both teams have a busy April schedule that concludes with the Mid-South Conference Championship in Bardstown, Ky. The goal for both teams is to qualify for the NAIA Championship in May. Williams is confident he can continue to build on the tradition past Cumberland University golf teams have established.

Back row from left to right is Richard Williams (Head Coach) Jake Dailey, Austin Garrett, Kaleigh Chitwood, Katie Legge, Quincy Hogan, Kayla Smith, Zach Kean, Ryan Botts and Zach Johnson. Front row left to right is Ian Whittemore, Peyton Broyles and Jeremy Goodman (player/assistant coach).

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Tennessee golf schedules

3TAY 0LAY THE BEST IN THE SMOKIES

TENNESSEE GOLF ASSOCIATION

April 23-26

May 21-23

June 5-8

June 14-15

June 16-20

July 8-10

Senior Four-Ball, Super Senior Four-ball,

Belle Meade Country Club, Nashville

Four-Ball Championship,

The Grove, College Grove

Father-Son Championship,

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Amateur Championship,

Girls Junior Championship,

Aug. 5-8

State Amateur Championship,

Cherokee Country Club, Knoxville

Sevierville Golf Club (River), Sevierville

Sevierville Golf Club (Highlands), Sevierville

Match Play, Senior Match Play,

July 31-Aug. 2 Golf Capital of Tennessee Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open,

Aug. 19-20

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Four-Ball Championship,

Aug. 27-29

Mid-Amateur Championship,

Oct. 18-19

Challenge Cup Matches,

Stonehenge Golf Club, Fairfield Glade

Junior Amateur Championship,

July 8-10

July 24-27

WindRiver, Lenoir City

SunTrust State Open Championship,

Sept. 22-24 Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior Amateur Championship,

Sept. 24-26 Senior Amateur Championship,

Holston Hills Country Club, Knoxville

Stonehenge Golf Club, Fairfield Glade

Memphis Country Club, Memphis

Club at Fairvue Plantation, Gallatin

The Honors Course, Ooltewah

Old Hickory Country Club, Old Hickory

Jackson Country Club

Stonehenge Golf Club, Fairfield Glade

TENNESSEE PGA April 14

April 28-29

May 5-6

May 12-13

May 30

June 1

June 9-10

Yamaha Pro-Assistant,

Club Car Pro-Official Championship,

National Car Rental Harold Eller Pro-Am,

Electronic Merchant Systems Pro-Am,

Tennessee Senior State Open,

FedEx St. Jude Classic pre-qualifier,

July 14-15

Capital City Golf Association Open,

Creeks Bend Golf Club, Hixson

Stones River, Murfreesboro,

June 30-July 1 PGA Junior,

June 30-July 1 The Classic,

July 21-22

July 28-29

Aug. 4-5

Aug. 11

Aug 18-20

Sept. 8-9

Sept. 22-23 Sept. 29-30

Oct. 18-19 Oct. 20

Oct. 27

Milestone Golf Club, Morristown

Stonehenge Golf Club, Fairfield Glade

Windyke Country Club-East, Memphis

Ira Templeton Chattanooga Open,

Pro-Junior,

Spring Creek Ranch, Collierville

Old Hickory Country Club, Old Hickory

Windyke Country Club-East, Memphis

FedEx St. Jude Classic qualifier,

June 16

Bear Trace-Harrison Bay, Harrison

Temple Hills Country Club, Franklin

City of Crossville Team Championship,

Spring Creek Ranch, Collierville

Lake Tansi Golf Club, Crossville

National Car Rental Assistant Championship, Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club, Brentwood

Senior Section Championship,

News Sentinel Open qualifier,

Old Natchez Country Club, Franklin

Three Ridges Golf Course, Willow Creek, Knoxville

46th Tennessee Professional Championship, Holston Hills, Knoxville

Lincolnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classic,

Yamaha Players Championship,

E-Z Go Pro-Pro Championship,

Challenge Cup Matches, Pro-Pro Scramble,

Yamaha Pro-Super,

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McCabe Field Golf Course, Nashville

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Oak Ridge Country Club, Oak Ridge

Foxland Harbor Golf and Country Club, Gallatin Blackthorn Club, Jonesborough

Stonehenge Golf Course, Fairfield Glade Hillwood Country Club, Nashville

Hermitage Golf Course, Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reserve, Old Hickory

44.

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April 2014

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Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail keeps chugging along By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor FORD CITY, Alabama – Most of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is now 21 years old. Its success story has been told over and over again, and late last year the acclaimed series of public golf courses stretching from north to south across the state reached a milestone. The RTJ as it is known celebrated the 10 millionth round of golf played on the Trail. Each of the Trail sites has had a major impact on its distinct locations, attracting additional tourism dollars and having a hand in helping attract new industry. At the RTJ Golf Trail at the Shoals, located just a short drive from downtown Florence and Muscle Shoals, the story is no different from the other Trail sites. “It’s had a big impact on this area, especially with the hotel,” said Stewart Walker, director of marketing for the Shoals site. “Once the golf course was

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail has weathered the poor economic golf climate, in part due to the product it presents to golfers. “It’s a tribute to the quality of the courses, the quality and the valuable team members throughout the Trail,” she said. “We have great leadership

built in 2004, then the Marriott came in. It’s helped attract other businesses and we have a lot of groups come in and do business on the golf course.” Walker said the 11 Trail sites do a combined 500,000 rounds annually. She estimates that 30 percent of the golf played at the Shoals comes from travelers who come from outside a 2-hour drive. Late March to early June is the busiest time for out-ofmarket play. The second busiest time is September-October. Other Trail sites are busier at different times of the year, Walker said.

# 9 Peninsula Green

from Dr. (David) Bronner. He has put together a great team and a successful team.” Walker said the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. For information, go to rtjgolf.com.

Nashville, Tennessee

April 2014

TEE TIMES

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Golf Course 120 65

108 49

71 81

123

121 109

114

110 78

113 55

97 23

94 88 116 27

119

139

91 106

50 129

104

62 60

128 16

25 10

36 77

102

135

112

115 130

100

118

138

28 127 63 136 46 56

45 47

37 74

101

126 93

+ Golf House Tennessee and the Little Course 1. 2. 3. 4. 6.

7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Andrew Johnson Golf Club, Greeneville, TN, 800-421-2149 Arnold AFB Golf Club, Tullahoma, TN, 888-558-2327 Audubon Golf Course, Memphis, TN, 901-683-6941 Baneberry Golf & Country Club, Baneberry, TN, 800-951-4653 Bear Trace at Cumberland Mtn., Crossville, TN, 931-707-1640, www.tngolftrail.com Bear Trace at Harrison Bay, Harrison, TN, 423-326-0885, www.tngolftrail.com Bear Trace at Tims Ford, Winchester, TN, 931-968-0995, www.tngolftrail.com Bent Creek Golf Village, Gatlinburg, TN, 800-251-9336 Blackberry Ridge Golf Club, Shelbyville, TN, 931-437-2343 Brainerd Golf Course, Chattanooga, TN, 423-855-2692 Brown Acres Golf Club, Chattanooga, TN, 423-855-2680 Buffalo Valley Golf Club, Unicoi, TN, 423-743-5021 Carroll Lake Golf Club, McKenzie, TN, 731-352-2998 Cattails at Meadowview, Kingsport, TN, 423-578-6622 Cedar Crest Golf Club, Mufreesboro, TN, 615-849-7837 Cedar Hills Golf Club, Inc. Lenoir City, TN, 865-986-6521 Centennial Golf Course, Oak Ridge, TN, 865-483-2291 Champions Run Golf Course, Rockvale, TN, 615-274-2301 Chatata Valley Golf Club, Cleveland, TN, 423-339-9784

21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41.

Cherokee Valley Golf Club, Olive Branch, MS, 662-893-4444 Clear Creek Golf Club, Bristol, VA, 276-466-4833 Mirimichi Golf Course, Millington, TN (901) 259-3800 Cole Park, Fort Campbell, KY, 270-798-4610 Collins River Reserve, McMinnville, TN, 931-668-7749, www.collinsriver.com Concord Park Par 3, Knoxville, TN, 865-966-9103 Cottonwoods Golf Club, Tunica Resorts, MS, 662-357-6078 Country Hills Golf Course, Hendersonville, TN, 615-824-1100, www.countryhillsgolfcourse.com Creeks Bend Golf Club, Hixson, TN, 423-842-5911 Creekside Plantation, Seymour, TN, 865-577-4653 Crossings Golf Club, Jonesborough, TN, 423-348-8855 Cumberland Bend Golf Course, Gainesboro, TN, 931-268-0259 Dandridge Golf & Country Club, Dandridge, TN, 865-397-2655 Davy Crockett Park Golf Course, Memphis, TN, 901-358-3375 Dead Horse Lake Golf Course, Knoxville, TN, 865-693-5270 Dixie Oaks Golf Club, Summertown, TN, 931-964-4991 Dogwood Hills Country Club, Portland, TN, 615-325-4648 Dyersburg Municipal GC, Dyersburg, TN, 731- 286-2155 Eagle Bluff Golf Club, Chattanooga, TN, 423-326-0202 Eagleﾃ不 Landing Golf Club, Sevierville, TN, 865-429-4223 Eastland Green Golf Course, Clarksville, TN, 931-358-9051

42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60.

Egwani Farm Golf Club, Rockford, TN, 865-970-7132 Elizabethton Muni. Golf Club, Elizabethton, TN, 423-542-8051 Fairways and Greens Golf Cntr, Knoxville, TN, 865-777-4653 Fairways at Spencer Creek, Franklin, TN, 615-794-8223 Farm Lakes, Old Hickory, TN, 615-847-5074 Forrest Crossing Golf Course, Franklin, TN, 615-794-9400, www.americangolf.com Fox Meadows Golf Course, Memphis, TN, 901-362-0232 Futures Golf Club, Puryear, TN, 731-247-3264 Gaylord Springs, Nashville, TN, 615-458-1730, www.gaylordsprings.com Graysburg Hills Golf Course, Chuckey, TN, 423-234-8061 Greens at Deerfield, LaFollette, TN, 800-325-2788 GreyStone Golf Club, Dickson, TN, 615-446-0044 Hampton Creek, Ooltewah, TN, 423-238-6812 Harpeth Hills Golf Course, Nashville, TN, 615-862-8493, www.nashvillefairways.com Hermitage Golf Course, Old Hickory, TN, 615-847-4001, www.hermitagegolf.com Hickory Valley Golf Club, Chattanooga, TN, 423-894-1576 Highland Green Golf Club, Jackson, TN, 877-427-5477 Holston Valley Golf Course, Bristol, TN,423-878-7400 Hunterﾃ不 Point Golf Course, Lebanon, TN,615-444-7521

April 2014

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TEE TIMES

Guide For The Tennessee Region 105 103

137 79

52 67 18

125

107

70 68

17 95 111

39 54

84 33

122

132

44 133

26 89

124 117

59 90

43 13

1 4

69 9

134

131

29 1 57 12

61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80.

Indian Hills Golf Club, Murfreesboro, TN, 615-895-3642 Ironwood Golf Course, Cookeville, TN, 931-528-2331 Johnny Warren Academy, Gallatin, TN, 615-206-0813, www.jwga.net Jones Creek Golf Course, Jackson, TN, 731-425-8620, www.jonescreekgolf.com Kenny Perryﾃ不 Country Creek, Franklin, KY, 270-586-9373 Kingﾃ不 Creek Golf Club, Spring Hill, TN, 931-486-1253 Knoxville Municipal GC, Knoxville, TN, 865-691-7143 Lake Tansi Village CC, Crossville, TN, 931-788-3301 Lambert Acres Golf Course, Maryville, TN, 865-982-9838 Landmark Golf Club at Avalon, Lenoir City, TN, 865-986-4653 Legacy of Springfield, Springfield, TN, 615-384-4653 Links at Galloway, Memphis, TN, 901-685-7805, www.memphistn.gov Links at Overton, Memphis, TN, 901-725-9905 Long Hollow Golf Course, Gallatin, TN, 615-451-3120, www.gallatin-tn.gov Lost Creek Golf Club, New Market, TN, 865-475-9661 Maggie Valley Golf Club, Maggie Valley, NC, 800-438-3861 Marshall County, Lewsiburg, TN, 931-359-2482 McCabe Golf Course, Nashville, TN, 615-862-8491, www.nashvillefairways.com Millstone Golf Club, Morristown, TN, 423-586-4000 Nashboro Village Golf Club, Nashville, TN, 615-367-2311

181. 82. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98. 99. 100.

Oak Hills Golf Course, Greenbriar, TN, 615-643-4505 Old Fort Golf Club, Murfreesboro, TN, 615-896-2448 Old Stone Fort, Manchester, TN, 931-723-5075, www.tngolftrail.com Patroit Hills, Jefferson City, TN, 865-475-4466 Pebblebrook, Greenbrier, TN, 615-382-3045 Percy Warner, Nashville, TN, 615-352-9958, www.nashvillefairways.com Pine Creek Golf Course, Mt.Juliet, TN, 615-449-7272, www.pinecreekgolf.net Pine Hill Golf Course, Memphis, TN, 901-775-9434 Pine Lakes Golf Club, Rockford, TN, 865-970-9018 Pine Oaks Golf Club, Johnson City, TN, 423-434-6250 Quail Ridge Golf Course, Bartlett, TN, 901-386-6951 River Islands Club, Knoxville, TN,865-933-0100 Riverbend Links, Tunica Resorts, MS, 888-539-9990 Riverside Golf Club, Memphis, TN, 901-774-4340 Riverview Golf Course, Loudon, TN, 865-986-6972 Roan Valley, Mountain City, TN, 423-727-7931 Ross Creek Landing, Clifton, TN, 931- 676-3174 Saddle Creek Golf Club, Lewisburg, TN, 931-270-7280, www.saddlecreekgc.com Scenic View Golf Course, Winchester, TN, 931-967-5224 Shelby Park Golf Course, Nashville, TN, 615-862-8474, www.nashvillefairways.com

VisitSevierville.com 101. Shiloh Falls Golf Club, Counce, TN, 731-689-5050, www.shilohfallsgolf.com 102. Shiloh Golf Course, Adamsville, TN, 731-632-0678 103. Silver Lake Golf Club, Church Hill, TN, 423-357-9940 104. Smyrna Municipal Golf Course, Smyrna, TN, 615-459-2666 105. Steele Creek Golf Course, Bristol, TN, 423-764-6411 106. Stonebridge Golf Course, Arlington, TN, 901-382-1886 107. Stonehenge Golf Club, Fairfield Glade, TN, 931-484-3731 108. Swan Lake Golf Course, Clarksville, TN, 931-648-0479, www.cityofclarksville.com 109. Sycamore Valley Golf Course, Ashland, TN, 615-792-7863 110. Ted Rhodes, Nashville, TN, 615-862-8463, www.nashvillefairways.com 111. Tenn Golf Trail @ Fall Creek, Pikeville, TN, 423-881-5706, www.tngolftrail.com 112. Tenn Golf Trail @ Henry Horton, Chapel Hill, TN, 931-364-2319, www.tngolftrail.com 113. Tenn Golf Trail @ Montgomery Bell, Burns, TN, 615-797-2578, www.tngolftrail.com 114. Tenn Golf Trail @ Paris Landing,Buchanan,TN, 731-641-4459, www.tngolftrail.com 115. Tenn Golf Trail @ Pickwick Lnd,Pickwick Dam,TN, 731-689-3149, www.tngolftrail.com 116. Tenn Golf Trail @ T. O. Fuller, Memphis, TN, 901-543-7771, www.tngolftrail.com 117. Tenn Golf Trail @ Warrior Path, Kingsport, TN, 423-323-4990, www.tngolftrail.com 118. Tennessee River Golf Club, Decaturville, TN, 731-852-2582 119. The Club at North Creek, Southaven, MS, 877-465-3647 120. The Links of Novadell, Hopkinsville, KY, 270-886-1101 121. The Tennessean, Springville, TN, 731-642-7271 122. Three Ridges Golf Course, Knoxville, TN, 865.687.4797 123. Through the Green Highland Rim, Joelton, TN, 615-746-0400 124. Tri Cities Golf Club, Blountville, TN, 423-323-6615 125. Tri-County Golf Course, Oliver Springs, TN, 423-435-0749 126. Tunica National, Tunica Resorts, MS, 662-357-0777, www.tunicanational.com 127. Twelve Stones Crossing, Goodlettsville, TN, 615-851-4653 128. Two Rivers GC, Nashville, TN, 615-889-2675, www.nashvillefairways.com 129. VinnyLinks @ Shelby Park, Nashville, TN, 615-880-1720, www.nashvillefairways.com 130. Wedgewood, Olive Branch, MS, 662-895-7490 131. White Oaks, Athens, TN, 423-745-3349 132. Whittle Springs Golf Course, Knoxville, TN, 865-525-1022 133. Willow Creek Golf Club, Knoxville, TN, 865-675-0100 134. Willow Springs Golf Course, Athens, TN, 423-745-1131 135. Willowbrook, Manchester, TN, 800-319-8001 136. Windtree Golf Course, Mt.Juliet, TN, 615-754-4653 137. Woodlake, Tazewell, TN, 423-626-6010 138. Sculleyﾃ不 Golf Course, 2162 Westover Rd. Jackson TN, 38301, 731-424-4500 139. Chickasaw Golf Course, 9555 Hwy. 100 West, Henderson , TN 38340 , 731-989-4700

TEE TIMES

April 2014

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Alabama’s Gulf Coast worth the trip By Joe Hall Tee Times Publisher There’s no question the Gulf Coast is an outstanding yet crowded golf market. From Pensacola and Destin in Florida all the way to Biloxi (Miss.), great golf abounds in every shape and fashion. And some of the best courses and accommodations in the region can be found along the Alabama coast. Whether it’s Orange

Beautiful Beach Club, Gulf Shores Beach or Gulf Shores, or the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail sites at Magnolia Grove or Lakewood, golfers and their families won’t be disappointed with a visit to Lower Alabama (or L.A.) as the locals call it. With so many golf destinations available to golfers in middle Tennessee, the biggest question is “Why the Gulf Coast?” There’s an easy answer -Why not? It’s accessible by car or plane. Affordable accommodations are usually just a 5-iron away from the first tee at most courses, and the golf takes a backseat to none. From the acclaimed Kiva Dunes to the aforementioned RTJ Golf Trail sites, there are spectacular golf courses to seek out and conquer. A recent trip to L.A. affirmed the region’s reputa-

Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club Gulf Shores

several Alabama Men’s Amateur Championships. Opened in 1985, the Honours Golfmanaged course has matured over the years and the golf holes are more well-defined by the bordering vegetation. A links-style course, accuracy is a must due to the

tion for good golf. Kiva Dunes was the first stop on our jaunt. The Jerry Pate design certainly lives up to its top-5 ranking in Alabama. Kiva Dunes is a regular stop on the state’s amateur tournament circuit and has hosted

Earl Stone, the facility has a terrific practice area that includes a 10,000 square foot practice green. The courses feature generous fairways and strategic greens, making it both challenging and fun to play. One of the trip’s treats was squeezing in nine holes at the Gulf Shores Golf Club. The public facility opened in the 1960s and was the first course in Gulf Shores. It underwent a complete renovation and golfers have been packing the Gulf Shores Golf Club Gulf Shores

Kiva Dunes Gulf Shores

Rock Creek Fairhope many bunkers that come into play. Just a short drive from Kiva Dunes is the spectacular 27hole Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, which bills itself as the best-conditioned course in Gulf Shores. Designed by

course ever since. Lurking near Fairhope is Rock Creek , another Earl Stone design that offers a unique landscape different from the relatively flat courses at Kiva Dunes, the Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club and the Gulf Shores Golf Club. Rock

April 2014

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Alabama’s Gulf Coast is perfect for a buddies’ trip or a family getaway. Accommodations vary. Hotels such as the historic Battle House Renaissance Hotel and Spa in Mobile, which has been around since 1852 and graced by stays from American presidents, offers a luxurious home base for a trip to the Gulf. There’s also the acclaimed Grand Hotel Marriott Resort Golf Club and Spa at Point Clear, site of the Lakewood Golf Club. It opened in 1847 has been named one of the top 500 hotels in the world by

Magnolia Grove, Mobile Crossings Course

Creek features plenty of elevation changes which were an unexpected surprise for a course in that part of the state. Any trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast would not be complete without playing the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail Magnolia Grove facility. Not only does it feature two magnificent 18-hole courses, but one of the best Short Courses

as its championship courses, and Magnolia Grove, which has hosted the LPGA Tour Championship, has perhaps the best. The trip’s final stop included 18 holes at Lakewood Golf Club in Point Clear. The club features two courses Dogwood and Azalea. Now part of the RTJ Golf Trail,

Historic Battle House Renaissance Hotel & Spa Mobile Lakewood’s courses are the only ones on the Trail that are not original Roger Rulewich designs. Both underwent renovations when they came under the RTJ umbrella and easily live up the Trail’s standard.

Dining options abound, and there are plenty of must-visit restaurants and entertainment venues, including the famous Flora-Bama Club. There’s also plenty to do away from the golf course, such as deep sea fishing charters, inland water parks and shopping galore. Or, just soak up some sun on those pristine Gulf Coast beaches. Southwest Airlines now offers service to Pensacola from Nashville for golfers in a hurry to get to nirvana. By car, it’s an easy 7-hour

Lakewood Golf Club’s Dogwood Course Point Clear Travel & Lesiure. In addition to an abundance of other hotel options along the coast, there are a plethora of condos available for rent to accommodate just about any size travel party.

anywhere. Nearly all of the original Trail sites included a par 3 course that in no way resemble the old “pitchand-putt” courses that used to dot the golf landscape. The RTJ’s Short Courses are as challenging

TEE TIMES

Grand Hotel Marriott Resort Golf Club & Spa, Point Clear

jaunt down I-65. Give the Gulf Coast a try next time you are looking for a golf getaway. Chances are you won’t be disappointed.

TEE TIMES

April 2014

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Rister finds his niche at golf Tec

Tee Times Report Justin Rister has found his niche as a certified personal coach at golfTEC in Cool Springs. The Illinois native spent six years as an assistant professional, first at Brentwood Country Club and then at The Governor’s Club. At those stops, he, like other assistant club pros, did a little bit of everything. “You wear many different hats when you are an assistant pro at a country club or local course,” Rister said. “I was a business person, sales person, clerk, friend, rules official, tournament coordinator, teacher and concierge.” While all necessary and part of the job, teaching is Rister’s passion. At golfTEC, Rister, now in his seventh year as a professional, teaching is at the forefront as he continues his career. “GolfTEC gives me the opportunity to concentrate 100 percent of my time on helping my clients improve their golf game,” he said. Rister started playing golf when he was 12, encouraged by his grandfather. He began honing his game on the elementary school playground across from his house in Eldorado, Ill. By the time he was 16, Rister knew he wanted a career in golf. “I enjoyed being at the golf course every day and talking with my local PGA professional about the game, my swing and watching him

teach lessons,” Rister said. “I was able to give some of my friends advice that helped them with their games and got a great deal of satisfaction out of it.” Rister said teaching has always been a priority. “I’ve studied as much as I can about the golf swing ever since I was a kid,” he said. “I just haven’t been able to make it my primary focus until now.” Rister said being affiliated with golfTEC is a perfect match for what he wants to accomplish. “The technology and feedback the student receives at golfTEC is first class,” he said. “It always frustrated me that my students didn’t have a good way to monitor their practice. Now, all my students have high speed video right in front of them as they practice, as well as every training aid and drill they could need to help them train their new swing.” Andrew Braley, owner/general manager of golfTEC Nashville and Memphis, said Rister has been a welcome addition to his facility. “Justin joined us last July, and comes with a true passion for the game and instruction,” he said. “He has made a real commitment to growing the game for all ages and really focused on developing the next generation of golfers.”

Justin Rister

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April 2014

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Nashville golf institution closes its doors By Doug Curtiss

he could repair another one the next day. Much to Jack’s surprise and amusement, For 27 years, Jack Craw and his store – his customer - one with a lot of golf skill Jack’s Golf Shop – have been a fixture in and a lot of golf temper — came in the Nashville’s golf scene. It’s not a stretch next day with about a dozen clubs with to say it is an institution the shafts broken in the city. If you play golf, in half. That startyou’ve probably heard of or ed a great relationship between met Jack and his wife Kim. More than 200 people player/celebrity have worked for Jack durand club repair ing the store’s lengthy tenicon that lasts to ure. Nobody who came into this day. the store was considered a Next, Jack told a customer. They might have story about how come in a stranger but his passion for when they left they were music and golf inconsidered friends. tertwined. He esThe Jack’s Golf Shop era timates 25 percent came to a halt at the end of his business of March. Craw closed came directly from A young Jack with the store at the request music industry Bruce Devlin of his landlord within six friends, friends of weeks of receiving notice. It couldn’t have come at a worse time. He had just ordered his spring supply of clubs, shirts and balls, pointing out March through July was his peak season. He cancelled his entire order and held a “lost my lease” sale. Before the store closed I had the opportunity to talk with Jack, who makes everyone seem comfortable when he starts a conversation. He

musicians. Too humble to drop names, I did coax him into telling me some of the country music, golf, and rock and roll hall of famers he’s known throughout the years. Jack has as much passion for golf as anyone I have seen in 35 years of playing the game, and he has incredible knowledge of all aspects of the game. Any golfer with a sense of history will appreciate Jack’s story about a set of irons Payne Stewart gave him to sell in the mid-1990s: It seems Stewart changed equipment companies but hated his new clubs. He changed again, only to hate those even more. Finally, Stewart was released from his contract to play any clubs he wanted. Stewart called Jack and asked if he still had his old blades.

Jack replied that he did have them, saying nobody but a touring pro could hit those butter-knife clubs and he couldn’t sell them for $100. Less than a year later those irons won the 1999 U.S. Open! Jack is a part of golf history by touching those clubs, but he is an even more important part of Nashville golf history. He lives and breathes golf, and the absence of Jack’s Golf Shop in Nashville will leave a huge void.

Come Rediscover Old Hickory Country Club A Family Tradition Since 1926

Kim and Jack Craw

Brandt Snedeker and Jack

told story after story that had me feeling all sorts of emotions. His sadness at closing the store couldn’t be hidden even though he put on a brave front. Jack told the story of an anonymous celebrity bringing in a club to get reshafted for the first time. When Jack returned five minutes later with the repair complete, the celebrity asked if

friends, and co-workers. Jack came to Nashville because of the music industry and loved every aspect of it. A drummer-turned-music producerturned director of marketing for a production company, Jack worked with and played golf with a who’s who of golfer/

Lou Graham and Jack

1904 Hadley Avenue, Old Hickory, TN 37138 (615) 847-3966, (615) 847-5055 www.iamoldhickory.com

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April 2014

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Short game practice area boosts Lipscomb golf By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor Members of the Lipscomb University menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf teams no longer can blame faulty short games for their scoring woes. That wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fly now that the George Robert Frost Short Game Practice area is up and running at the Nashville Golf and Athletic Club, the teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home course. Opened last fall, the new short game practice area is part of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continuing efforts to upgrade both teams. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to be a relative and legitimate program,â&#x20AC;? Lipscomb University menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf coach Will Brewer said recently. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives us the opportunity to grow the program, and it gives our student-athletes the opportunity to be prepared to play on the next level.â&#x20AC;? The facility is part of a long-term plan to help the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs become more successful. The practice area is already known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Frosty,â&#x20AC;? in honor of the Nashville businessmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial involvement. Designed by former Nicklaus design team member Todd Jester, the practice area is state-of-the-art. It features three greens for putting and chipping, two practice tees, four bunkers with two designed as fairway bunkers, an area to practice rough and fairway pitches

and another area to practice shots from uneven lies. The practice area covers 2.5 acres and features mini-verde greens and also bent grass. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was asked about two and a half years ago what was needed to help the program,â&#x20AC;? Brewer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a list of about six things, and this was second or third on the list. We went to work to raise money for it and in about six months we had enough money to get started.â&#x20AC;? Nashville Golf and Athletic Club features an 18-hole course designed by Bruce Devlin/Robert von Hagge that opened in 1972. The short game area enhances what already is a good practice facility. The club is well-known for attracting big events. It has hosted the Tennessee State Open and will host the Western Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open for the second time in 2015. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s win-win for us and for the club,â&#x20AC;? Brewer said. Not only will the practice area help Lipscomb golfers hone their short games, it should provide a boost in recruiting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the lifeblood of a program hoping to increase its visibility. It shows a commitment to both programs. Brewer and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coach Buddy Harston are committed to making sure the programs remain on the uptick. The new short game area is one way to impress recruits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The trajectory is up,â&#x20AC;? Brewer said of Lipscomb golf. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moving very quickly, even though it never seems like it moves quick enough. We have a long way to go but we are making progress. This is an opportunity for a mid-major program to get to the next level.â&#x20AC;?

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April 2014

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Honeycutt selected for TPGA President’s Award TeeTimes report Graham Honeycutt recently was honored with the 2013 President’s Award. Presented during the final year of a Tennessee PGA President’s term, it honors a professional for outstanding, dedicated and selfless service to the community and the Tennessee Section. TPGA President Neil Collins selected Honeycutt, the Director of Operations for the Tennessee Section, as the 2013 recipient. Honeycutt has been a PGA member since 2010. “I am very proud of Graham for receiving this prestigious award,” said Jeff Abbot, executive director of the Tennessee PGA. “He is a tireless worker who strives to make the (l.) Neil Collins, TPGA President presents a happy but shocked golf industry better for our PGA Graham Honeycutt, Tennessee PGA’s Director of Operations, professionals on a daily basis. I The President’s Award. Graham is holding daughter, Mikayla, am even more proud of Graham while wife, Heather, lets him know she was in on the surprise. for his accomplishments as a father and husband. While he is a superstar at work, he has his priorities the Hermitage Golf Course in 2009 and in the right place by serving his family, Brian Jorgenson of the Nashville Golf & Athletic Club in 2010. faith and community first.” Collins said Honeycutt’s efforts “have Previous winners include Mike Eller of

a positive impact on nearly every member and apprentice in the Tennessee Section.” “His positive attitude, enthusiasm, his ability to place the needs of others before his own, his humility and his faith are indeed shared with those who are fortunate enough to interact with him,” Collins said when announcing Honeycutt as the recipient. Honeycutt is active on multiple TPGA Committees, including the Education Committee and the Growth of the Game Committee, and plays a major role in driving their results and achievements. Honeycutt, who grew up in Atlanta and graduated from Davidson University, spent time as an assistant golf professional at Belle

Meade Country Club before becoming the director of operations of the Tennessee Section. Collins said Honeycutt has been instrumental in the success of the PGA Junior Golf League and has had a significant role in the success of the TPGA Teaching and Coaching Summit for three years. He was instrumental in scheduling and presenting the Tennessee Section’s inaugural Fall Business Summit. Collins credited Honeycutt’s organizational skills with helping nearly double annual attendance at the TPGA annual meeting. Honeycutt’s best work might come away from his daily duties with the TPGA. He and wife Heather are raising their first child, Mikayla, who was born 11 months ago with Dandy Walker Syndrome. “Embracing the challenges of caring for and raising a daughter with special needs, he has flourished both personally and professionally,” Collins said. “His blogs on ‘Dandy Walker Ranger’ are insightful, heartfelt and full of wisdom and are a true window into the character of this special PGA Member.”

The First Tee of Tri-Cities expands

The First Tee of Tri-Cities has seen tremendous growth over the past five years. Because of its success, expansion in staff and program facilities has been put in place. Foremost among the changes is the addition of Adam Dean as the new program director. “With the addition of a full-time Program Director, we will be able to introduce more young people to the game of golf and have a positive impact on their lives,” Tri-Cities First Tee Executive Director Cody Weems said announcing the hire. “Adam has eight years experience as a PGA Professional and will add a lot of experience to the program.” states Executive Director Weems. Dean previously worked at Clear Creek Golf Club where he was the Assistant Golf Course Manager. The First Tee of Tri-Cities has released its spring and summer schedule. There are programs available at 8 locations this year. The First Tee of Tri-Cities is a junior development program that teaches golf while incorporating character building and life skills curriculum. The First Tee Life Skills Experience, a curriculum for teaching

character education through life skills, is one of the unique features that differentiate The First Tee from other youth initiatives and junior golf programs. It ultimately strives to instill in participants The First Tee Nine Core Values: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment. Through the Life Skills Experience, young people discover how skills essential to success on a golf course can also help them flourish in life. These skills include: Self-management Interpersonal communication Goal setting Mentor Effective conflict resolution Programs are available at Pine Oaks Golf Course, Elizabethton Golf Course, Cattails @ MeadowView, Andrew Johnson Golf Course, Steele Creek Golf Course, Warriors Path Golf Course, Clear Creek Golf Course and Blackthorn Club. The programming consists of 5 levels so juniors are able to progress as they go through the programs. To find out more visit www. TheFirstTeeTriCities.org or contact Cody Weems at cweems@tngolf.org.

April 2014

TEE TIMES

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Opinions vary on how to grow the game By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor

Photos courtesy of Montana Pritchard/PGA of America

ORLANDO, Fla. – Amid the chaos that was the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show, some of the heavyweights of the industry gathered for a panel discussion to discuss golf and the direction it needs to take moving forward. The panel of heavy hitters included PGA of America president Ted Bishop, entrepreneur Donald Trump, LPGA Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam, past USGA president David Fay, TaylorMade CEO Mark King and Golf Channel head Mike McCarley. The hour-long discussion was lively, and at Panelist Ted Bishop, Donald Trump, Annika Sorenstam and David Fay times showed just how discuss the state of the industry at the PGA Merchandise Show in January. big of a chasm there is between traditionalists and innovators. Everyone on the panel agreed they want to mean easing equipment restricgrow the game, but opinions on how tions in an effort to make the game more enjoyable for the that can happen were varied. Ways to make the game more fun and bulk of those who play? But, in to attract new players – specifically from doing that how does the game the ranks of juniors, women and minori- maintain its deep traditions? Of course Trump, never at a ties -- sparked spirited discussion. Bishop said he is optimistic going for- loss for words or an opinion, ward that golf is on the upswing once weighed in on that aspect. Speagain after going stagnant for the past cifically, he responded to rolling several years, in part due to the sluggish back the golf ball and the upcoming anchoring ban. economy. “You don’t want to make the “Golf has started to turn the corner, game harder than it already is,” and I haven’t always felt that way when he said. “There are phenomenal I have come here to this show,” the PGA of America head said. “A lot of times it athletes – the best baseball playhas been depressing as I’ve gotten ready er, the best hockey player – and to head back north for our season when they can’t play. It’s really a hard you didn’t feel a lot of optimism about game. Rolling back the ball, the the business. We’re in a good place now, equipment, I just think that it is not a good thing for golf. You the best place we’ve been in a while.” Sorenstam agreed with Bishop that the will lose players. Anything you game is better now than in the recent can do to make the equipment really good and to make the past. “Golf is in a better spot, and the key game maybe a little easier is a right now is to grow the game,” she said. positive and not a negative.” Trump cited his own improve“We can grow the game by inspiring others; we can grow the game by educating ment as he has gotten older due others. That’s what I try to do. Let’s get mostly because of improved the young ones and the women to play equipment and balls. He cited Attendance was brisk at the PGA many of his friends who would the game.” Merchandise Show in Orlando in January. be unable to play if not for using The question is how to do it. Does that

the long putter. King, whose company seems to be on the cutting edge of technology, said pandering to a minority of players who are staunch traditionalists is a poor approach. It would be better to cater to the multitude of fringe golfers, he said. “Could you imagine a game with no rules?” he said. “It wouldn’t be golf by the old definition. I think that’s OK. I don’t think you have to throw away the old traditional golf to find new forms. Where we could go with equipment would blow your mind. Should it go there? I don’t know.” King said the problem with golf is that it lacks appeal. “I don’t think it’s inviting. I don’t think it is fun,” he said. “I don’t think we care about the people on the fringe; I think we only care about the people who love the game for the traditions of the game. That’s ridiculous to me. They make up such a small part of our game, why would we organize our entire industry around a couple million golfers? It doesn’t make any sense to me.” He said that game can maintain its traditions and progress at the same time. “We live in a world that is about innovation, progress and moving forward, and we’re the slowest moving organization and industry that I l know of,” he said. “That doesn’t make any sense to me. Why would we be proud of that? That’s not something to be proud of. It’s honestly the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard of.” The Golf Channel’s McCarley agrees with King, noting that as more people play, the more they will watch and support his advertisers. “Being progressive, moving forward-- these are things we all should be doing together,” he pointed out. “While tradi-

April 2014

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TEE TIMES

talk about the score, they talk about that big drive they had on 14; how much fun it was. That’s what brings them back to the game.” While the panelists agreed to disagree on some aspects on how to grow the game, at least they were together talking about it. And that can only be a good thing moving forward. “I think there is a buzz going on, and the buzz is generated by what Annika touched on – how do we get kids to play, how do we get women to play, how do we get minorities to play, how do we touch people on the fringe who kind of have

Panelist Ted Bishop, Donald Trump, Annika Sorenstam and David Fay discuss the state of the industry at the PGA Merchandise Show in January. tion is great and we need tradition, building a business and building an industry is something we all should be thinking about and be focused on for sure.” Sorenstam sees both sides of the equipment argument. She said there needs to be some middle ground. “As a professional, it needs to be fair; it needs to be right,” she said. “All of the years on tour I had the opportunity to

try a lot of different drivers, balls, putters, you name it. I never went to the anchoring putting style; I never felt like it I needed it. I played against players who used the anchoring style and I felt like it gave me a boost knowing they were searching for something. “I’m all about growing the game. Play in a pro-am, play with recreational golfers and what do they talk about? They don’t

the interest in golf. How do we get those people to get interested in our game?” King said. “There is more conversation about it now than ever before and I think that is a big positive.” Added Sorenstam, “Let the governing bodies make the decisions on growing the game and let’s do it together. Hopefully we can get people interested in the game. It needs to be fun.” Tee Times editor Gregg Dewalt is senior sports editor of the Florence (Ala.) TimesDaily and the Decatur (Ala.) Daily. Follow @greggdewalt on Twitter.

Tips from Johnny

By Johnny Warren • Johnny Warren Golf Academy The Club at Fairvue Plantation • www.jwga.net • 615-206-0813

Cure your slice with a stronger grip The most common problem I see in golf is the dreaded slice. In my opinion, a golfer that has been grounded with solid pre-swing fundamentals will probably never experience a bad slice. Why? Because an open 1 clubface is what causes a ball to slice and a poor grip is usually at the root of the problem. A “slice” grip is a weak left hand with no knuckles showing and the handle in the palm of the hand. Once the clubface opens and the ball begins to go to the right, a golfer will start to cut across the ball in an effort to steer the ball to the left which only magnifies the problem. What I have just described is the concept of a golfer that will someday become 3 a habitual slicer. The first thing that needs to be corrected to cure a slice is to square the clubface by repositioning your left hand (for a right-handed golfer). Make sure your grip is toward the fingers of your left hand with 2 or 3 knuckles

showing (photos 1 and 2). It is also very important to hold the club in the fingers of the right hand with the “V” formed between the right thumb and forefinger pointing toward your right shoulder (photo 2 3). Now begin to make some easy swings while allowing the clubface to turn counter clockwise and point toward the ground as you swing past impact. This will cause the clubface to close which is the concept of a slice-free swing. If this begins to cause you to hook the ball too much, you may want to back off of the counter clockwise swings but don’t change the grip. Spend some time practicing these suggestions and you should be well on your way to better golf.

April 2014

TEE TIMES

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2014 New Product Showcase By Leonard Finkel Tee Times contributor Each year, the PGA Merchandise Show delivers new and innovative golf products. Here are some of the exciting ones you’ll see in the coming year. Tour Edge branched out with the Exotics brand in 2014. The new, limited edition CB PRO combines the retro, smaller head of its Tour-winning CB2 fairway wood with an innovative Slip Stream Sole function to create the ultimate fairway wood for accomplished players. This patent-pending sole glides through the turf, dramatically minimizing turf contact and allowing the head to maintain maximum speed through impact. The sole is designed so that minimal contact occurs from any attack angle or position of the head at impact. The CB PRO features a premium beta titanium cup face with a hyper-steel body to produce maximum fairway wood distance. As a result of combobrazing, every single gram of excess weight is eliminated from the face and shifted to the sole for a lower center of gravity. It features the same trampoline face design found in the CB2 that combines multiple levels of face thickness. touredge.com The General, a new symmetrical mallet putter from RIFE, features wings that flow back and provide great stability and pinpoint alignment. Three sightlines, paint filled topline, and Lie-Align Technology make this model a

breeze to line up putts accurately. RollGroove Technology features precisely spaced grooves that allow the putter to gently press into the cover of the ball and grip and lift it into an instant forward roll. rifegolf.com GolfBuddy’s Platinum PT4 rangefinder has been upgraded and features a slimmer design, higher resolution and larger screen. A four-inch LCD touch screen measures distances to any target, offers a dynamic green view as well as a shot-distance measurement. A pressure based touch screen has been upgraded to a capacitive touch screen, providing users with direct contact with the content displayed to be even more responsive. A tracking module allows users to keep score for up to four players.

gpsgolfbuddy. com From

Sun

Mountain, the H2NO collection of bags will be expanded to include cart bags and carry bags, all constructed with waterproof fabric, taped seams and waterproof zippers. The carry bags feature tops with integrated handles for ease in picking up and setting down, a topmolded stand attachment for stability, a proprietary E-Z Fit Dual Strap System

for a balanced carry across both shoulders and patented RollerBottom stand mechanism for easy leg activation. They feature ample storage space, including a full-length clothing pocket, a velour-lined valuables pocket and multiple accessory pockets. Stand bags feature leg lock straps and a cart-friendly bottom that will fit into a cart’s bag well. It also incorporates a larger diameter, individual club-divided top and waterproof pockets including two full-length clothing pockets, multiple accessory pockets and a velour-lined valuables pocket.

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The Devereux collection is noted as a premiumquality modern menswear known for simple-yetsophisticated pieces in contemporary colors and superb attention to detail. Clean modern styles are designed to fit properly and inspire performance both on and off the course. Specifically tailored to move seamlessly from workday to weekend and beyond, the line is all about modern sophistication, everyday elegance and simple versatility. The inspiration for this line was the great players and dressers of the game’s past, Hogan, Palmer, Player and Stewart. Natural (Pima Cotton) and synthetic (Polyester) fibers blend the best of both characteristics for easy care.

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Antigua’s Spring Performance 72

Golf Collection for men is comprised of 17 shirts, 12 outerwear tops, two shorts and seven hats. It demonstrates attention to detail and is perfect both on and off the course. Shortsleeve pullover Logic is 86 percent polyester and 14 percent spandex with a heavy jersey face and micro fleece back. It’s quarter-zip placket, contrast inset details and cut-and-sew cuff make it attractive and practical. Highlight is a polyester short-sleeve polo combining dull and shiny tonal stripes with solid insets and a flat knit collar. Both feature Desert Dry moisture management to keep golfers dry and comfortable. This collection brings an ideal fit that’s specific to golf, allowing golfers freedom of motion with lightweight stretch material in its outerwear.

antigua.com

New Balance has its first entry into golf footwear. Minimus Sport and MinimusLX utilize REVLitefor lightweight cushioning, a 4mm drop midsole and a dual density spikeless outsole. This provides a lower heel stack height resulting in your feet being lower

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to the ground. The ultra-lightweight Sport features a water resistant, breathable air-mesh upper with a TPU stability cage for cool, comfortable support. The LX features a neotraditional design and premium full-grain leather waterproof upper with a saddle stability cage, backed by a two-year waterproof warranty. newbalance.com After a successful earlier introduction in the highperformance category with the TRUST series and award winning SOFFFT, the Hybrid is HIRZL’s first product targeted at budget conscious golfers looking for a high

April 2014

performance glove. Using a sophisticated combination of kangaroo and synthetic leather, the Hybrid is designed with a proprietary 45 precurved finger system, ensuring a proper ergonomic fit and exceptional comfort. Its features include a textured index finger for greater grip performance, Kangaroo reinforced leather thumb and Airtech mesh technology. hirzl.com ReTee is a unique and useful divot repair tool that incorporates a built in pencil sharpener to save the environment from the waste of pencils and tees. It’s easier to use than a regular divot repair tool and better for the green. No twisting, tilting or lifting. A simple poke at a 45-degree angle on both sides of the ball mark and ReTee’s unique shape repairs the divot. How many times have you found

TEE TIMES

inflammatory properties to the base oil. The product is for relief of arthritic pain and muscular aches and pains, including symptomatic relief of lower back pain and fibromyalgia. Outback Series 2-in-1 Protection sunscreen and insect repellent provides complete outdoor protection with all natural properties of tea tree and eucalyptus. golfpainaway.

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yourself with a dull or broken pencil point? Never have that problem again. ReTee is light weight and made from extremely durable plastic for years of use. reteegolf.com Golf Pain Away’s roll-on applicator provides a no-mess solution to pain relief on or off the course. Pain Away is 100-percent natural using only four simple ingredients. A unique combination of select varieties of olive oil, tea tree oil, eucalyptus and vanilla from the Australian Outback are blended together using a top secret triple maturation process, binding the active ingredients and their anti-

IOMIC USA is introducing the Art Grip Series Sticky Camo Grips for woods and irons. These grips are manufactured using IOMIC’s special camouflage coloring process to create a unique new look. Sticky grips are incredibly soft and feature great traction and low torque and are available in camouflage green, gray, blue, pink and brown. All IOMIC grips feature a proprietary compound that provides a soft feel with control. This material provides adhesiveness, is water and friction resistant and is naturally white in color which allows for a full spectrum of color – IOMIC’s signature trait. iomicusa.com

April 2014

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TENNESSEE PGA AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED FRANKLIN, Tenn. – The Tennessee PGA has announced its 2013 Section Award winners to honor the following PGA Members for excelling in their fields of expertise while demonstrating a strong dedication and commitment to the game of golf. The winners were announced during the Club Car Awards Luncheon at the Section’s 47th Meeting on Feb. 24 at the Embassy Suites.

Jim Vernon, PGA Named Golf Professional of the Year Jim Vernon, PGA Director of Golf at Hermitage Golf Course in Old Hickory, TN is the 2013 Tennessee PGA Golf Professional of the Year, the highest award the Section bestows upon a Golf Professional. Vernon has served as chairman for the Section’s Growth of the Game Committee since 2006, and currently serves as the Independent Director on the Section Board of Directors. This is Jim Vernon’s first award for the Tennessee Section PGA Golf Professional of the Year.

Jeffrie Hunter, PGA Director of Sales-Southeast at Northstar Club Management Software, from Ashland City received the Horton Smith Award for his dedication to improving educational opportunities for PGA Golf Professionals in the Section. One of his most recent contributions to the Tennessee Section was developing the Tennessee PGA Business Summit. His multiple contributions to furthering education about business in the golf industry have made him a well deserved recipient of the Horton Smith Award. This is Hunter’s first Tennessee Section Horton Smith Award.

Jeff Craig, PGA Head Golf Professional at Windstone Golf Club in Chattanooga was bestowed the Youth Development Award. Serving as the Tennessee PGA Section Junior Golf Committee chair, Jeff saw an opportunity to implement an exciting new team format for junior golfers in our state. Through his leadership, vision, and passion for junior golf he started the PGA Junior League in both his chapter and the section. A total of 340 kids at 34 golf facilities across the Tennessee Section participated in the successful inaugural year of the league. This is Jeff’s second Youth Development Section Award.

Jennifer Hudson, PGA Head Golf Professional of Spring Creek Ranch in Memphis has been awarded the Richard Eller Growth of the Game Award. Jennifer is known and respected for her player development strategies and dedication to growing the game of golf through both women and junior programs. Jennifer has been successful in growing golf through many of her own, creative growth of the game initiatives. She has increased Spring Creek Ranch’s women’s program from 5 participants in 2006 to currently 45 women golfers in 2013. She has also applied her successful growth of the game tactics to the junior program at Spring Creek Ranch by increasing participation from 6 in 2007 to 40 in 2013. This is Hudson’s first Richard Eller Section award.

Hunt Gilliland, PGA Director of Golf of Council Fire Golf Club in Chattanooga received the Bill Strausbaugh Award recognizing his significant contributions to the mentorship of his fellow PGA Professionals. Gilliland’s simplistic and lead by example leadership model has earned him the respect and admiration of not only his tenured staff, but other aspiring professionals in the section. Hunt encourages all PGA professionals to get involved in their association. Hunt is the model example of getting involved in the PGA. Hunt has served on the Tennessee Section board for the last 10 years and also served as District 3 Director from 2009-2012. Gilliland has won 17 chapter and section awards. This is the first Tennessee Section Bill Strausbaugh Award for Hunt Gilliland.

Sean Rice, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at The Honors Course in Ooltewah is the recipient of the Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award presented by TaylorMade-adidas Golf. As the lead assistant at The Honors Course, Sean is not just a tremendous asset to the club but also to the Chattanooga Chapter and Tennessee Section. Sean currently serves as the Tennessee Section Assistant’s Chairman. As Section Chair, Sean has helped design a range of promotional materials geared toward spreading awareness about issues such as “How to get Involved” on the Section and Chapter level, “How to qualify for the Assistants Cup Team”, and “How to get your PGA/PGM education funded”. This is Sean’s first Section Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award. Joe Hallett, PGA Lead Golf Instructor of Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin was honored as Teacher of the Year for his aptitude and ability for teaching the game of golf. Hallett boasts an impressive teaching resume. He is the swing instructor for eight time LPGA champion, Stacy Lewis, as numerous other professional and collegiate golfers. Joe Hallet has also conducted more than 90 educational seminars and presentations in his chapter and the Tennessee section over the past fifteen years and has been recognized as Golf Magazine Top 100 teacher four years in a row.

Two PGA members received Merchandiser of the Year honors in separate categories. This award recognizes superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf and excellence in Golf Shop Operations. Criteria include but are not limited to number of rounds played, merchandise sales and performance, and merchandising philosophy. • Resort/Public – Brandon Mendes, PGA Head Golf Professional at Glen Eagle Golf Club in Millington makes every effort to appeal to the wide variety of customers at Glen Eagle. Mendes’ merchandising philosophy is “pushing the Glen Eagle brand” and carrying all logoed soft goods to differentiate them from other facilities and big box stores. • Private – Keith Penke, PGA Head Golf Professional of Germantown Country Club in Germantown believes in the simple philosophy of taking care of the customer before and after the purchase. Keith offers a wide range of soft good items and prices along with superb customer service before and after a purchase has been made.