Tee Times May 2021

May 2021 Keeping Golfers Connected in TN, KY, MS, AL, NC

Veteran presence PGA HOPE initiative is about more than just golf Pages 2-4

May 2021

Inside!! says: Henrik Simonsen 11 Simonsen juggles many duties at The Honors Course hysteria: Sultan’s Run 15 Hoosier remains one of Indiana’s finest courses the fever: Spark Golf puts 17 Catch emphasis on fun, socializing

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Hope for the future

PGA HOPE program provides an outlet for military veterans

By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor FRANKLIN - On a recent sun-splashed Wednesday morning in April, a sizable mix of military veterans and/or family members and volunteers – was on the practice green of The Little Course - learning about the art of putting.

For some, the day was an introduction to golf.

For others, it was a type of therapy. For everyone, though, camaraderie ruled the day as they laughed, told stories and enjoyed their time together at Golfhouse Tennessee.

For many, it was their first engagement with the game. Rena Hall made a long putt during the putting scramble portion of the clinic and went into a semi-happy dance on the green.

“I never truly held a golf club or hit a ball in my life,” she said, gleaming with pride. “I am truly excited and I got a hole-in-one – is that what is called?”

For Hall, the wife of a veteran, getting into the PGA HOPE program was two years in the making after the 2020 season was canceled due to the Covid pandemic. When she finally made it, the program did not disappoint.

“I always wanted to play, but just never had the opportunity,” Hall said. “My husband was active-duty military and we would just move and move and move. When we settled here in

Franklin, I thought it was a great opportunity for me to engage. The opportunity presented itself and here I am.”

Hall, who recently opened her own business and writes curriculum for early educators and provides training and support services, wants to use golf as a means to network socially and for business.

“I always heard – it sounds cliché - that conversations, friendships and deals are made on a golf course,” she said. “I wanted to be part of that club, that group I thought maybe I should go on the golf course. So here I am.”

A few groups away, Jackie Pair, a 30-year U.S. Army veteran is decked out in red – red shirt and red sweat pants. It looks like she is having the time of her life. Her enthusiasm seems infectious, and it’s just her first day on the course.

“I love it,” she said, smiling, “I only have been out here a day. I actually sank a putt – I told Clark (Harrison, the chapter ambassador) I was going to be dangerous. I am surprised I am enjoying it. I thought it would be a whole bunch of pros and I would be a novice golfer, but to my surprise I am not. There are some folks who have less experience than I do.”

Valerie Vaughn, a PGA professional in the Tennessee Section, came to Nashville from Birmingham and started the HOPE program in 2016. The first year produced two gradu-

Jackie Pair (middle), a retired U.S. Army veteran, is having a good time at the PGA HOPE clinic.

About PGA REACH and PGA HOPE

Valerie Vaughn ates. When this year’s session is complete, the number of graduates will total more than 100.

There are three chapters in Tennessee and four more are in the works. It’s a six-week program covering all aspects of the game – from putting to the full swing. The final two weeks consist of on-course training that culminates in a five-person scramble and graduation.

Upon graduation, participants can join the

A military veteran gets in some practice time

Continued on page 4

PGA REACH is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America. The mission of PGA REACH is to positively impact the lives of youth, military, and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA Professionals, PGA Sections and the game of golf.

PGA HOPE is a free therapeutic adaptive golf program that is geared towards Veterans with disabilities however is offered to all servicemen, servicewomen, and Veterans. PGA HOPE programs are designed to introduce golf as a way to enhance mental, social, physical, and emotional well-being, and to assist with rehabilitation and assimilation.

PGA REACH, PGA Sections and their PGA Professionals partner with local Veterans Administration (VA) Hospitals and military installations to initiate this program. This program is open to all military Veterans, from previous and current combat theaters, with an emphasis on serving those with physical and emotional disabilities.

Mission and Goals Our mission is to use golf as a rehabilitative tool to help Veterans overcome life’s adversities and improve their physical, mental, emotional and social well-being.

Our goals are to: • Create a safe environment for Veterans and their families and establish relationships of trust with PGA Professionals • Have fun and encourage a culture of comradery • Teach Veterans the basics of golf including etiquette and course management • Empower Veterans to feel confident playing golf on their own after the program Veterans We Serve This program is open to all Veterans with an emphasis on serving Veterans with physical and emotional disabilities. This program is completely free to the Veterans. Veterans range from World War II era to the most current combat theaters. The Veterans who attend the program will have different physical and mental disabilities; some you will visibly notice and other issues will be invisible to the eye. Injuries could have occurred years ago or recently. You will encounter Veterans with varying disorders including limb loss, spinal cord injuries, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), blindness, substance abuse, those engaging in social rehabilitation and more.

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The PGA HOPE initiative uses American flags on the flagsticks

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Ernie Chandler, who served in the U.S. Army, has been in the program since its inception

Clark Harrison a Viet Nam veteran, is now an ambassador for the PGA HOPE program

PGA HOPE 6 Week Clinic Series 2021 Spring Registered Participants: Clark Harrison Mark Montgomery Richard Odom Jackie Pair Marcus Ford Ernest Chandler James Buford Henry Davis George Wollas Kent Hall Rena Hall Steve Slovensky Jerry Edge

Larry Ballantine Clyde Poag Robert Cala Sr. “Lew” Amos Lewallen Mike Schmidt LaShun Clayton Ian Wilson Rick Helms Robert Timberlake Tom Tremblay Jessica Spain Chris Wilburn Marvin Quarles

PGA HOPE 2021 Spring League for Graduates:

Will Wagoner Yolanda Inge Tim Knox Justin Guiling Jeff Wendall Steve Sanders Dominic Napolitan Arnulfo Patino James Rose Bob Stabile Joe Schrott William Jordan Steve Reed Dane Raven

Aleck Holcomb John Schieber AJ Beauford Kris Bailey Princeston Barlow Dickey Lee, Singer Songwriter - supports PGA HOPE by playing in graduation scrambles, spring and fall league and entertaining the Veterans with his decades of hit songs!

PGA HOPE TENNESSEE Volunteers at The Little Course: Coaches: Lou Graham, PGA; Willie Gibbons, PGA; Joe Taggert, PGA; Valerie Vaughn, PGA; Lissa Bradford, PGA; Carey Ray, PGA, Dick Horton, Chuck Ruttan

Tennessee Section PGA Staff

Clayton Hromadka Paul Stanek

Kyle Bachman Adam Greeno

Deloitte Volunteers Joe Burrows, Windle Riles and many others Jason Arrington Jennifer Arrington Taylor Arrington Travis Arrington Kelli Nelson Emily Nelson Zach Bland Pam Ekker Jon Ekker Jack Ekker Joe Ekker

Shashe Ekker Meredith Goff Kelly Kirkpatrick Kevin Kirkpatrick Sean Kirkpatrick David Kirkpatrick Blair Mitchell Kate Harrington Kevin Brown Austin Brown Chris Shepard Winston Shepard Blair Mitchell Blake Green

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Valerie Vaughn shows PGA HOPE participants where the next portion of their clinic will take place at GolfHouse Tennessee

Hope for the future

PGA HOPE program provides an outlet for military veterans Continued from page 2 PGA HOPE League for Graduates that runs simultaneously to the introductory program.

Vaughn has been pleased with the progression of the program.

“I’m not surprised how popular it has become because PGA REACH from the national level has done a fabulous job promoting this program,” she said. “Our section office – Paul Stanek – he is the operations manager, has done a fantastic job.”

Stanek said the program is a way to give back to veterans.

“The Tennessee PGA is thankful for all the veterans who have served our country,” he said. “This is simply a small way we can say thank you and give them an opportunity to learn the game we love.”

Vaughn said the key to getting veterans involved in the program is word of mouth publicity.

“That’s really where this program takes off,” she said. “The veterans seem to enjoy the camaraderie. That’s the coolest part of this program. It’s a very rewarding program for volunteers and instructors. It’s a win-win. Volunteers love it because they are giving something back to those who served our country.”

Vaughn admits that it is a challenge to find veterans and to get in the door of the Veterans Administration. That’s where Harrison, the

PGA HOPE ambassador Clark Harrison lines up a putt during the scramble putting eventportion of their clinic will take place at GolfHouse Tennessee

program ambassador and VA employee, and Pair, who is a vocational development specialist at the VA, come in. They can help get the word out that the program is more than just an introduction to golf – it’s about the overall health of the participants.

“Clark’s role is to help us get into the VA and let the psychologists and the social workers know what this program is about,” Vaughn said.

Harrison, a Viet Nam vet, is all in on the program. He had never played golf before entering the program. His first round of golf was on The Little Course. His second round was at Congressional Country Club in Washington, D.C. when he traveled there to learn more about the program as an ambassador. He and the other ambassadors had dinner with Lee Trevino.

It was in Washington that he saw the benefits of the program beyond golf.

“I saw how it helped the physically disabled with so many tools,” he said. “Seeing that firsthand made me even more enamored with the program and wanted to continue it.”

Now, Harrison, who lives in nearby Lewisburg and works for the VA, spreads the word at weekly Wednesday meetings.

Pair, who works with veterans with PTSD, hopes with her experience in the PGA HOPE program that she can extol its virtues to her superiors at the VA.

Paul Stanek “It helps them to understand checks and balances, it gives them a release and gives them a sense of calm, as well,” she said. “For me, it teaches me a new skill that I haven’t practiced with in like 40 years.”

Pair said the program is invaluable.

“I think it is great and should be available wherever veterans are,” she said. “I knew what Clark was doing, but I didn’t really understand it until he explained it to me this year. They need to get more representation out in the field to talk about it. If you have a person like myself and Clark, who work with many veterans – I’m not saying I could be an ambassador - but I would like to continue on as a spokesperson to talk about the program.”

Harrison turns 69 years old this month and he’s fallen in love with the game. He said he is on his way to becoming a golf nut.

“I was really getting ready to put more effort into it last year and then Covid hit,” he said.

“I’m a few years from retirement and I am really looking forward to having something to do. I just stick to the basics. It’s just fun.”

One of Harrison’s favorite people in the program is Ernie Chandler, who has been in the program since its inception.

“He looks forward to it every year,” Harrison said. “He was kind of a shut in and alone, single but he sticks to it. I told him I’ll get you here.”

Chandler is a U.S. Army vet who was stationed in Europe. Attending the PGA HOPE program is something he looks forward to each year.

“I know every Wednesday I am going to have a helluva day,” he said. “I get out of bed early,

get in the shower, drink a cup of coffee, get dressed and sit down and watch news and get ready to walk out the door about 7.”

Like most golfers, it’s that one shot that keeps Chandler coming back for more in addition to being around other veterans.

“Everybody has a spectacular day when we are out here,” he said. “You get one shot and you say that validates my time. It’s a group of guys and girls who kinda left part of their life behind and gives us an opportunity to move ahead and find something that not only is fun, but you have to know geometry and physics and that kind of thing.”

Ironically Chandler said he lived on a golf course a long time ago. But his only memory of that time is going to the practice range “to blow off steam. “ “I always thought that if I hit the golf cart picking up balls I was doing OK,” he said with a grin. “I have fun, swing away and don’t worry about it. There’s always the next time.”

Harrison has heard the same story time and time again when trying to encourage vets to give the PGA HOPE program a try.

“I constantly hear them say they never thought they would like golf,” he said. “Even me. I see some of the same faces and they are so glad to be here and are enthusiastic to be doing it again, especially after last year. They are just glad to get out.”

Sponsors and volunteers are the lifeblood of any program like PGA HOPE. Vaughn said it wouldn’t be possible without the financial backing of title sponsor Delta Dental. She also cites Deloitte, another primary sponsor.

“We could not do this without them,” she said.

In addition to the sponsors, Harrison said the volunteers are incredibly helpful.

“The staff out here, I cannot let you leave without mentioning them,” he said. “They are so helpful – some of them gave people a set of golf clubs. Who does that? And they give them other little trinkets to help them. We have wonderful volunteers. They go all out for the veterans.”

Pair, who works with the Volunteers of America, said she has a surprise in store this year when the organization has its annual fundraising tournament.

“I can never go out and play – I am always driving a golf cart and bringing snacks,” she said. “This year I’ll be able to go out and play.”

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From tHE Editor

By Gregg Dewalt

Research indicates golf industry finally stabilizing T he golf industry has been on a rollercoaster ride for about the past four decades, but there are indicators that the business of golf is stabilizing.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic not only did golf survive but it thrived. Rounds were up across the board despite a myriad of restrictions. This year, golf hierarchy is trying to find ways to sustain the momentum from a year in which players either returned to the game or new players entered the golf landscape.

Another sign of new-found health in the industry is that it is hard to find availability at many of the well-known golf destinations. It seems that after a year in which travel restrictions forced many golfers to skip their annual buddies or family trips, they are now back and going full-tilt.

Also, a recent National Golf Foundation report found evidence that there are fewer golf courses closing, reversing a 15-year-old market correction. In 2020, the NGF recorded a net decline of 169 18-hole equivalent golf course. While still a lot, that number is down significantly (31 percent) from 2019 in which the NGF recorded 246 Since 2006, there has been a total reduction of 1,645 18-hole equivalent courses (two 9-hole courses equal one 18 hole).

Here are two interesting conclusions from the NGF: • Since 2006, thanks partly to real estate

PUBLISHER Joe Hall pgegolf@bellsouth.net

EDITOR Gregg Dewalt teetimesgregg@gmail.com

developers hungry to turn unprofitable golf courses into profitable real estate, and a surprising surge in golf activity catalyzed by the pandemic, we are approaching equilibrium in supply and demand. After 2020’s participation bump, the number of golfers per 18HEQ now stands at 99% of what it was in 1986.

• One recent facility studies revealed golf courses are in better financial shape today than they have been in years, which is good news for the golf business. Profitable golf courses are not just good for the game and business of golf, they’re essential. Profits allow owners to invest in the future and provide greater experiences for golfers.

What does it mean? While there always are peaks and valleys in the golf industry, it seems as if the golf industry might have bottomed out and is back on the rise again.

Pinehurst offers stay-and-play packages uring the past decade, Pinehurst Resort has definitely upped its game to another level. In that span, the “Cradle of American Golf” has restored its famed No. 2 course via Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, completely rebuilt its No. 4 course under the guidance of Gil Hanse, opened The Cradle short course (also with Hanse) and expanded its 18-hole putting course, Thistle Dhu. But there’s more - in 2018 it opened the Pinehurst Brewing Company and in 2019 it fully renovated its 42-room Manor hotel and new North & South Bar. In 2020, the USGA announced it would establish a second home in Pinehurst (Golf House Pinehurst), and that No. 2 would become the first

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ASSOCIATE EDITOR Justin Onslow

SENIOR EDITOR David Widener widecard@aol.com

U.S. Open Anchor Site, hosting the tournament in 2029, 2035, 2041 and 2047 in addition to the already scheduled 2024 event.

With nothing new on tap this year, Pinehurst with all of its golf options might be the perfect spot for a quick trip. The resort’s Donald Ross package is a great way to play No 2, No. 4 or any one of Pinehurst’s nine courses. The popular stay-and-play includes a two-night stay, three rounds of golf, breakfast buffet and three-course dinner, daily. If you do go, you’re mostly likely to find lodging and tee time availability booking Sunday-Tuesday or Monday-Wednesday. For more information, go to www.pinehurst. com.

GolfNow, Youth on Course form partnership embers of the Youth on Course initiative now have an easy way to gain access to golf courses.

GolfNow’s integration of a custom, tee-time booking engine for Youth on Course offers its 100,000-plus junior

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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carol Hall teetimescarol@bellsouth.net GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Hamilton jrhdesign@att.net

TECHNICAL ADVISOR Jimmy Phillips

members an easier and more convenient way to play their next round of golf, while promoting more play and generating more rounds and revenue for participating golf courses.

The functionality will be available in the YOC app, providing all members with 24/7 smartphone access to tee times at participating GolfNow golf courses in North America. This is in addition to a February announcement that all YOC members also have access to a complimentary GolfPass video subscription.

“Youth on Course members are playing more golf than ever before and the transition to online bookings via GolfNow is a giant leap forward for our members and for our participating facilities,” said YOC Chief Technology Officer Grant Gaudette.

“GolfNow is the industry-leading tee-time marketplace and shares our vision that the future of this great sport starts with ensuring everyone has access to play. The YOC app now offers a portal for young people to learn how to shoot lower scores with GolfPass, then apply that new knowledge on the course with GolfNow.” “It’s hard to find any youngster these days without a smartphone – it’s how they connect with the world,” said Jerramy Hainline, Senior Vice President & General Manager, GolfNow. “This custom-booking app puts golf front and center in their world and makes it easy and convenient for them play a round by themselves, with a fellow Youth on Course friend or with a family member.”

YOC statistics show more than 40 percent of its members also book for an accompanying adult when making plans to play.

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Opinion

By David Widener

Member Golf Writers Association of America

Cink back in PGA Tour spotlight W

elcome back Stewart Cink.

It’s good to see him winning PGA Tour tournaments again after what he and his wife, Lisa, have gone through.

The good fortunes started when he won the first tournament of the 2020-2021 schedule by shooting 21-under-par to capture the Safeway Open. The victory on September 13, 2020, ended an 11-year winless drought spanning 4,074 days going back to the 2009 Open Championship at Turnberry, Scotland, where he defeated Tom Watson by six strokes in a 4-hole playoff after he forced extra play with a birdie on the 72nd hole.

Cink’s gained more confidence of a rebirth with his strong play in the Masters in April where he shot 2-under-par at Augusta National.

“I really felt I had the kind of stuff that was going to be very hard to beat,” he said heading into the RBC Heritage the week after the Masters.

True to his word he won the RBC at Hilton Head, shooting 19-under-par and in the process broke the lowest 36-hole and 54-hole scoring records. He had 17 birdies and two eagles in the first three rounds in coasting to a fourstroke victory.

The victory earned Cink an exemption in the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines in June and a third plaid jacket awarded annually to the winner.

He also won the RBC tournament in 2000 and 2004.

All this good came after trying times following his victory in the 2009 Open. Cink struggled on the tour and was forced to use a career money list exemption in order to compete in the 201617 season. The year 2016 also saw Lisa diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, which is now in remission.

Then in 2018 Cink had nose surgery to remove skin cancer. The year 2020 did not start well for the couple either as both tested positive for COVID-19 which was just being discovered.

Both recovered from the virus and Cink was on his way to a pair of Tour wins in the 20202021 season, something he also accomplished in 2004 season when he won the WGC-NEC Invitational and MCI Heritage (now the RBC).

Cink, who joined the PGA Tour in 1997 and was named Rookie of the Year that season, has eight tour victories and enjoyed plenty of success in his early career. Although he has only one major championship on his resume, he tied for third in the 1999 PGA Championship, placed third in the 2001 U.S. Open, and finished tied for third in the 2008 Masters.

If not for missing an 18-inch putt on the final hole of the 2001 U.S. Open, he might another major championship. The miss haunted him for some time as he dropped from 10th on the Tour’s money list to 73rd in a two-year span as fear plagued him over short putts.

“The putt I missed was a tap-in so it stayed

Stewart Cink has enjoyed a resurgence on the PGA tour this year with two wins at age 47. Photo courtesy PGA Tour

Jordan Spieth is David Widener’s pick to win the PGA Championship this month.

Photo courtesy PGA Tour

with me because it caused the most scars,” Cink said.

Few pros acknowledge demons they face under pressure, but Cink sought help from a psychoanalyst and rebounded to lead the Tour in putting in 2004 while winning twice.

The native of Florence, Alabama, who turns 48 on May 21, spent 40 weeks in the Top 10 World Golf Rankings from 2004-2009 and played on the winning 2008 Ryder Cup team and on four Presidents Cup teams that won.

Cink is one of the Tour’s good guys as evident of him winning the Jim Murray Award given by the Golf Writers Association of America for his cooperation and accommodation of the media. He’s also a recipient of the Payne Stewart Award given to the player who best exemplifies the value of character, charity and sportsmanship It’s nice to see Cink rebounding again.

PGA Championship (May 20-23) Pick: Missed on Justin Thomas in the Masters. He could win this one but I’m going with Jordan Spieth, who shot 7-under to tie for third in the Masters and before that won the Texas Open with 18-under-par.

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Around Nashville Fairways Wayne Evans

Superintendent of Sports/ Golf Clubhouse Operations

We are looking forward to hosting the JHF Municipal amateur tournaments this summer with the following dates: Men’s – July 16-18 Women’s - September 11-12 Senior Men’s - September 20-21

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We Love Our Golfers!!!

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

We are still looking for seasonal employees (both 40 hour and 19 hour)

at every course, as well as volunteer positions that work a 5 hour each week for golfing privileges.

Ted Rhodes

1901 Ed Temple Blvd. • 615-862-8463

VinnyLinks

2009 Sevier Street • 615-880-1720

Nashvillefairways.com

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Creating golfers, inspiring leaders

TGF adds Korn Ferry event as part of its mission to enhance the game I’ve been asked several times over the last few months, why the TGF would take over a Korn Ferry Tour event? I mean, you guys run junior tournaments, right? Yes, we do, and that’s exactly what we are known for nationwide, but there is far more to the Tennessee Golf Foundation than just what’s on the surface.

Inspiration is critical in the development process. All of us in some way, were inspired by something at an early age. Something that made us dream, something that helped us see what might be possible and we probably chased that dream for some time. That pursuit led us to where we are today, whether we achieved our dream or not. I’ll contend that’s the really good stuff in life. That journey that starts with inspiration and leads to who knows where!?

I got the “golf bug” when I was 10 years old when my dad took me to my first Masters in 1990. After standing at the gate forever, I waited for hours in the parking lot (you could hang out there back then) for Arnold Palmer to pull in, just to get him to sign my hat.

The Grove became the host course for the Simmons Bank Open that is now being run by the Tennessee Golf Foundation My dad told me there was an amateur from Tennessee playing as well, none other than Danny Green. How could that be I wondered? An amateur playing in the Masters? Danny signed my hat too, and I still kid him about it today! All the way on that seven-hour drive home I thought about what it would be like to play in the Masters. I started practicing, playing, reading, studying, watching and

even dreaming about that idea that maybe I could one day play in the Masters.

I was inspired. I still haven’t gotten my Masters invitation, but my life was forever altered.

The Simmons Bank Open is another opportunity for us as a foundation to change lives. We will crown a great champion and move them one step closer to playing the PGA Tour. The tourna-

ment will make an incredible gift to the Snedeker Foundation that will impact lives all over the community and lastly, we hope to inspire the next generation of golfers who will carry the game forward in their own way.

Maybe they’ll end up members of a local golf club, maybe they’ll become a PGA Professional, golf course superintendent, or even make a living on the PGA Tour. Chances are, knowing how to play golf will enhance their career regardless of their chosen field, and all the while they pick up on things that walk hand in hand with the game: honesty, integrity, perseverance, and respect.

Frankly, I believe this world needs more golfers, and through our programming statewide and now, the Simmons Bank Open, we hope to give it just that.

Fairways and Greens,

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JUST BRING YOUR SWING. GaylordSprings.com

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Memphian Rachel Heck continues torrid freshman campaign Tee Times report To say Memphis native Rachel Heck has had one heck of a freshman year with Stanford women’s golf would be a gross understatement.

With the NCAA regionals still on tap, Heck has already etched her name into the university record book.

She recently made Cardinal history by capturing the Pac-12 Championships, only the second time in school history that has happened.

Heck shot a 2-under 69 in the final round to finish with a 7-under 206 to win the tournament by two strokes. She became the first Cardinal since Mhairi McKay in 1997 to win a conference crown.

The Cardinal moved up the leaderboard in the final round behind Heck and sophomore Angelina Ye’s 4-under 67. Starting the day in third place, Stanford moved up to second to finish with a 2-over 854. It was Stanford’s best finish at the conference championships since winning in 2014, and just the program’s second, toptwo finish since 2001.

Heck (68-68-69) fired rounds in the 60s all three days to earn her third victory

TS GC

Rachel Heck is the Pac-12 women’s golf champion

of the season. She now has six straight rounds - and nine of her 17 collegiate rounds to date - in the 60s. Her scoring average on the year is 70.29. Heck’s three wins are tied with Stephanie Keever (1998-2001) for fifth-most career wins in program history.

After the final round on Sunday, the Pac12 Conference announced the 2021 All-

Conference Team, with Heck and Ye both earning spots. Heck has three wins, a tie for second and two other Top-11 finishes in her six events this season, while Ye has finished in the Top 11 in all six of her events this year.

The Cardinal was scheduled to host the Stanford Regional at Stanford Golf Course on May 10-12.

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Chase McGowin, General Manager Chris Weilandt, Head Golf Professional Bill Riley, Superintendent Avery Sprehe, Assistant Superintendent

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Tellico Village team wins Club Car Pro-Official

The MTSU Blue Raiders won their third straight Conference-USA tournament and will play in the NCAA men’s regional

MTSU wins 3rd straight C-USA men’s title

Tee Times Report Middle Tennessee made it back-to-back-to-back Conference USA men’s golf championships, taking down North Texas 3-0 in the match-play final.

The win sends Middle Tennessee State to the NCAA Regionals later this month.

Head Coach Mark McEntire’s team dominated the championship match. Not only did the Blue Raiders win three matches, but they also were leading in the final two matches.

“I’m just so happy for these guys to get to experience this,” McEntire said. “I’ve told a lot of people that this is the best team I’ve ever coached, and now they get to go showcase what they can do on a national level at NCAA Regionals and hopefully beyond.”

Senior Tanner Owens closed out the win with an eagle on the par-5 `16th hole to win 4&2. He has been a part of all three championships.

Michael Barnard won his match 5&3 and Kevin Jegers

won 6&4.

With the Blue Raiders further solidifying their standing as the class of the league after a third consecutive C-USA title, they now await their destination for their fourth consecutive trip to NCAA Regionals.

This year’s Regional sites are The Sagamore Club in Noblesville, Ind., hosted by Ball State; Seminole Legacy Golf Club in Tallahassee, Fla., hosted by Florida State; Championship Course at UNM in Albuquerque, N.M., hosted by New Mexico; Karsten Creek Golf Club in Stillwater, Okla., hosted by Oklahoma State; Golf Club of Tennessee in Kingston Springs, Tenn., hosted by Vanderbilt; and Tumble Creek Golf & Country Club in Cle Elum, Wash., hosted by Washington.

“I wish NCAA Regionals were this week with the way we are playing and the confidence our team has right now,” McEntire said. “I love the way they just refuse to let up. They have so much fight and so much competitiveness in them and they showed that this week.”

Tee Times Report LENOIR CITY, Tenn. – After an exciting afternoon at WindRiver Golf Club, Casey Flenniken, PGA, Ricky Moore and Chris Sykes of Tellico Village finished as the gross and net champions at the 2021 Club Car Pro-Official Championship.

In the Gross Division, the Flenniken/Moore team from Tellico Village had early success with two birdies and an eagle in the first four holes.

They took the back nine by storm and closed the tournament out with five birdies and an eagle.

The Flenniken/Moore duo ended the day at the top spot of the Gross Division with an overall score of twelve-under, 60.

In the Net Division, the Flenniken/Sykes team of Tellico Village was consistent the whole day.

Casey Flenniken The pair had two birdies and two eagles on the front side that started their momentum. The duo had five birdies and two eagles on the back side to solidify their victory.

They finished with an impressive fifteen-under, 57.

The Tennessee PGA would like to thank our Title Sponsor of the event, Club Car and Tim Keller, PGA for being such a generous partner. Without the support of Club Car, the Club Car Pro-Official Championship would not be possible. Another thank you to Eric Wiemann of Jack Daniels, Stacy Quilling of Galvin Green, and Kathy Yevchak of Signs by the Sea for being supporting partners of the event.

We would also like to give a special thank you to Kyle Hodges, PGA and the rest of the staff at WindRiver Golf Club for hosting such a successful event.

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May 2021

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Simonsen embraces role as ‘Keeper of the Game’

By Justin Onslow Tee Times Associate Editor Golf instructors come in all shapes and sizes, all backgrounds and teaching philosophies. That’s especially true of the handful of top teachers Henrik Simonsen in the state of Tennessee – as chosen for Golf Digest’s “The Best Teachers in Your State” list – some younger and some older, some with experience playing professionally and others undertaking their teaching journey fresh out of college. All have one common directive: Be stewards of the game of golf.

Henrik Simonsen, above all else, lives to embody that edict. It’s what keeps him both rooted and looking ahead.

Simonsen, 53, is the Director of Golf at The Honors Course, the private Pete Dye-designed gem in Ooltewah, not far from Chattanooga – a course among the most beautiful in the state and one that stands on its own splendor, from the mountainous surrounding landscape to the acres of towering native-grass rough. It’s no wonder the former professional born in Denmark and collegiately educated in Houston eventually planted roots in East Tennessee.

There, Simonsen has built a teaching career that still includes many rounds of golf of his own – he qualified for the Senior PGA Championship as recently as 2019 – while finding plenty of time for the business side of his title and even more time to make sure he’ll one day leave the game of golf better than he found it. That’s really the crux of his teaching philosophy.

TENNESSEE

“I think it’s important for a golf instructor today to not lose track of what it’s all about,” says Simonsen, who had a standout golfing career at Houston Baptist and the University of Houston before taking a six-year shot as a professional on just about every major tour available at the time. “We are the keepers of the game. It’s our job to promote the game, be out with the members, be out with the players and try to share our experience and our expertise the best we can; we’re better served as golf professionals outside with the game than inside behind a desk.”

Of course, Simonsen still has to spend that time behind a desk on occasion, but he has a pair of Merchandiser of the Year awards to his name to show for it, proving only that he wears his many hats well. It certainly helps that one of those hats – the one that landed him on the list of best teachers in Tennessee – was crafted by a handful of legends.

“My biggest luck in life is that when I came to Houston, for some reason, Butch Harmon took a liking to me and he helped me with my game for some years through college,” he says. “Later, with Butch’s help, I ended up working as an assistant at River Oaks Country Club in Houston with his brother, Dick Harmon. I just watched those guys teach. To me, that whole family of Butch Harmon, Dick Harmon, Craig Harmon, Billy Harmon – they made it so simple.”

From the Harmon brothers, Simonsen learned not just about the game of golf and how to teach it but also

1.) Joe Hallett, Vanderbilt Legends C., Franklin 2.) Matt Killen, Troubadour G. & Field C., College Grove 3.) Rob Akins, Rob Akins Golf Academy at Spring Creek Ranch, Collierville 4.) Brian Lackey, G.C. of Tennessee, Kingston Springs 5.) Nancy Quarcelino, Gaylord Springs G. Links, Nashville 6.) Virgil Herring, Ensworth Golf Center, Nashville 7.) Henrik Simonsen, The Honors C., Ooltewah 8.) Matt Walter, Vanderbilt Legends C., Franklin 9.) Ben Pellicani, Westhaven G.C., Franklin 10.) Walt Chapman, Fairways and Greens, Knoxville 11.) Brad Redding, Target Golf Practice and Training Facility, Knoxville 12.) Jake Reeves, Fox Den C.C., Knoxville 13.) Gaylon Cude, Golf House Tennessee Learning Center, Franklin 14.) Jex Wilson, Old Fort G.C., Murfreesboro

how to communicate and forge meaningful, effective relationships with his charges.

“If they spent an hour with a student, 45 minutes-worth was really just trying to get to know the student, tell stories, get involved,” he adds. “It wasn’t all about a diehard 60 minutes instruction where you’re trying to get all this information through to a player.”

The personal touch Simonsen learned from his former mentors has carried over to his teaching philosophy, which is predicated on experience, communication and care. As for technology, Simonsen utilizes TrackMan (ironically a Danish company whose owner Simonsen used to play golf with) for video breakdowns and metrics, though he admits the video work tapers off as he spends more and more time with each student. After all, the goal is to coach each student in unique ways; videos and numbers aren’t always conducive to that approach.

“A student isn’t going to come back if they don’t have a good time,” he explains. “If you don’t have a personal connection, they’re not coming back.

You have to make that connection.

You keep it light. For that hour you’re with them you talk about a million different things completely unrelated to golf – and that’s okay. That’s a part of it. That’s a part of keeping it light and getting to know your students.

“Sometimes we lose track of the fact that it’s a game. You kind of get so involved in technique and video and numbers and you forget to enjoy what it’s about. It’s a game. You’ve got to keep it as light as possible.”

Simonsen knows his methods work. He’s seen it firsthand with countless students, not least of whom just played his last collegiate match before turning pro in May – his son, Oliver.

“He obviously puts me in position to understand what he’s going through or what he’s about to go through,” says the elder Simonsen.

“He’s always lived on a golf course and golf has been a big part of his life so for many, many years; he’s been talking about being a professional.

He’s gotten to a point now where he’s able to do that.

“Whether Oliver becomes the new Tiger Woods on Tour or ends up in a similar capacity as his dad, it doesn’t matter. I hope he stays with the game in some capacity just to have that game and what it can do for families…

It’s just amazing. It’s the greatest

The Honors Course’s Henrik Simonsen works with a young student on her game

Henrik Simonsen’s son Oliver (left) is an accomplished golfer as well as his father game there is.”

For his part, Henrik certainly practices what he preaches. He still plays at a high level and will continue to do so as long as he possibly can. It’s the tether that keeps him attached to each and every one of his students.

“Once that’s in your blood, that never leaves you,” Henrik says. “It’s important to me to continue to be the best player I can be.”

Perhaps he does it for his students or for himself or both, but this much is true: He does it all for the love of the game.

“The game has been so good to me,” he says. “Just think about this little lad from Denmark that ended up at the Honors Course and to get to do all the things I do. To be able to give something back is just wonderful.”

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The day he took down the Golden Bear Editor’s note: Bobby Greenwood wasn’t expected to be much more than first-round fodder for an up-and-coming youngster out of Columbus, Ohio at the 1961 Colonial Amateur Invitational. Although a good player in his own right at North Texas State University, Greenwood, who played out of Sparta Country Club in east Tennessee, was relatively unknown outside the region. That all changed after his first-round match in Memphis that day. Here’s the story from that day in Greenwood’s own words.

By Bobby Greenwood, PGA The Colonial Amateur Invitational event in Memphis was one of the best amateur tournaments in the U.S. in the 1950s and 1960s. Back then, the hospitality drew the best amateurs in the country to Memphis.

Even two-time U.S. Amateur Champion Jack Nicklaus came to defend his title and I was chosen by the tournament committee to be his first victim.

As a student of the game, I knew a lot about the current NCAA champion. He was the longest hitter in the game, very strong at 5-foot-10 1/2 and 215 pounds.

He wore Footjoy shoes, grey slacks, black alligator belt, white Munsingwear shirt, a baseball-type hat, and he played a Titleist 5 golf ball.

Jack was the top-ranked amateur in the nation and I was scared.

So, I did what most people do when they are afraid … I prayed!

My prayer went like this: ‘Why does the great Jack Nicklaus get to come to my home state of Tennessee from Ohio and beat me 6 and 5 or 8 and 7! Dear God, I am one year older than him, I have hit more practice balls than him, I am not robbing any banks. Please Lord have mercy on me … help me to play my game with some courage so I won’t be so embarrassed when I lose.’ I also thought, ‘OK he may beat me 6 and 5 but he won’t do it with his favorite ball.’

The next morning, much to my chagrin, there he was on the first tee, he looked great, we spoke and then he asked me what ball was I playing. I said Titleist and then he said, ‘what number’ and I said No. 5.

“Do you have any other numbers?” he asked.

I said, ‘Let me look… no, that’s all I have…’

Is that wrong?... I don’t think so.”

He looked very determined, he was scary, so I decided not to watch him too much. It seemed to be working because I was only two down through 8 holes. He was playing beautiful golf. Best that I have ever seen.

I won No. 9 and made the turn only one down to the great Jack Nicklaus! It was a

Bobby Greenwood

caddie

Jack Bobby

driven the long hitting Jack Nicklaus on the last hole, in front of this large gallery.

We topped the hill and sure enough one ball was 320 yards… It was Jack’s.

I hit my 3-wood on the green, five feet from the hole for a chance for an eagle.

Jack hit a 1-iron over the green chipped back to 10 feet and sure enough, he makes it. Now I need to make the eagle putt to tie. I read the putt and I decided that it will break five inches.

So, I pray some more… ‘Dear Lord, I will always remember how I stroke this putt.

I’m not asking for it to go in, please just give me courage to make a good stroke.’

I did, it went in and we went to a playoff.

My second shot on the playoff hole was with a 7-iron. It was perhaps the best shot that I have ever hit under the conditions.

From a bare lie, I hit a draw into a left-toright wind four inches from the hole to win the match.

Jack was a gracious loser; he even wrote about our match in his book. Then, nine months later he won the U.S. Open Championship. When I returned home after Richard Crawford beat me in the final at Colonial, people would ask me, ‘how good is Jack Nicklaus?’ My answer was, ‘he will win a major.’ I wish I had said he will win more majors than anyone in history. Then I would have been a prophet.

I’m sure some were thinking, ‘If you beat him, he can’t be too good.’”

Prologue

moral victory for me. I felt some better.

Perhaps he would not beat me so bad after all.

To make a long, long story somewhat shorter, I was one down playing the long par-five 16th hole. We both hit our second shots in the sand bunker guarding the green but I got up and down for a birdie to win the hole. Even going to the 17th hole,

I’m in the mental zone... Wow! I think I can win! But wait, Nicklaus knocks in his 30foot putt on No. 17 to go back one up with one to play.

The last hole at the old Colonial Country Club was a 545-yard par 5. Jack has the honor and hits first, another high beautiful fade. Then I hit one of my best drives 300 yards! I was thinking, I have just out-

Greenwood went on to reach the final of the Colonial Amateur Invitational, where he lost to first-team All-American Richard Crawford of the University of Houston.

Greenwood returned to North Texas State University (now North Texas) for his junior year after being named NCAA-All American Honorable Mention in 1961. He was named second-team All-American in 1962 and first-team All-American in 1963.

Four times he was ranked among the Top 10 Amateurs in the U.S. during the 1960s.

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Honma releases limited-edition T//World GS Red driver CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA – Iconic golf equipment brand Honma released its T// World GS (Gain Speed) family of clubs to instant acclaim earlier this spring.

Now, the brand known for beautifully crafted performance announces its new, very limited-edition GS Red driver is now available. The exquisitely designed red driver delivers the same game improvement technology as the original T//World GS model, bringing players of varying abilities increased club head and ball speed with maximum forgiveness.

In Asian cultures, the color red represents happiness, beauty, vitality, good luck, success, and good fortune.

Honma’s chairman chose the club’s distinctive striking hue to adorn the driver’s crown, sole and shaft and inspire the bold and confident golfer. The GS Red shaft comes with an all-red Vizard shaft, made in Sakata, Japan, designed for straight flight and unmatched performance.

The exclusive opportunity to make a bold statement includes a limited inventory in North America of 9.5- and 10.5-loft GS Red

drivers, $599.99, available this spring and summer through Honma’s online retail store.

TECH BREAKDOWN – GS Red 460cc drivers, designed for straighter ball flights and increased distance, are artfully shaped with a raised Keel Sole towards the heel to promote draw-bias and a lower, deeper CG and high MOI to maximize forgiveness. The 9-gram adjustable weight in the heel allows for individual customization for preferred ball flight. The GS driver’s titanium construction, utilizing Ti811 for the body and a Ti 6-4 face, allowed engineers to sculpt thick and thin allowances throughout the club head to create its optimal speed and stability.

Honma’s new Flip Slot technology increases face flexure and reduces spin for more speed and forgiveness. The precise location and shape of the forward Toe Slot creates shot-straightening gear effect on off-center hits. Additionally, regardless of where the ball strikes on the club face, the Radial Face dynamically flexes all parts of the club face to harness more speed. The Radial Face design

has rib patterns and variable thickness for a weight efficient design. The ribs specifically add strength to the top and bottom of the face to ensure hits obtain advanced flex and speed.

Honma engineers achieved a master feat to design the GS driver properties to work ‘in phase.’ The flexure of the ultra-thin titanium crown, Radial Face and Flip Slot react at the same time, for the same amount of time, to deliver more consistent shot patterns. This produces the most speed off the club and adds distance for a wide range of players.

The variable thickness crown also saves weight that is more efficiently used elsewhere in the design.

The GS driver includes an integrated heel-bias crown graphic applied to encourage golfers to return the club face to square at impact. A key feature in Honma adjustable clubs, the revolutionary non-rotating hosel, is also featured in the GS driver. The system

keeps the shaft perfectly aligned through all adjustable loft-lie settings, delivering distance and directional consistency for all golfers.

For more information about this exclusive opportunity to purchase Honma’s new GS Red driver as well as its full line of T//World GS irons, drivers, fairways and hybrids visit: https:// us.honmagolf.com.

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From left to right: head coach Scott Limbaugh, Cole Sherwood, Matthew Riedel, Reid Davenport, William Moll, Harrison Ott, Michael Shears and assistant coach Gator Todd. Photo credit Steve Colquitt/University of Georgia

Vanderbilt claims SEC men’s golf championship Tee Times Report Once the Vanderbilt men’s golf team got into the match play portion of the SEC Men’s Golf Championship, the Commodores started rolling all the way to the crown.

Playing at the Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island, Georgia, the Commodores knocked off Tennessee, Alabama and Arkansas on the way to winning the SEC championship for the second time in four chances. The Commodores took down Arkansas 3-2 for their first title since 2017.

William Moll, a sophomore, made a match-clinching par putt on the final hole to clinch the match and the championship.

Moll won 1-up over Manual Lozada.

“It just turned out it was good on good and our good just happened to be one hole better today,” Vanderbilt head coach Scott Limbaugh told vucommodores.com Cole Sherwood had already won his match 4&2 and Reid Davenport gave Vanderbilt another point with a 1-up win.

“We talked about how guys got to step up,” Limbaugh said. “When you look at the way the week played out with Cole Sherwood finishing fourth in stroke play at his first SEC championship, coming out here and getting two huge points. Harrison Ott having a tough go of it in stroke play but found something in the final round and the

Jack Story

Evan Davis

way he played in the first two matches.

“William has just been so steady and Reid is starting to take really good steps. Just a total team effort.”

Vanderbilt now advances to the NCAA Regionals later this month, “We’re going to enjoy this. We got about 17 days until NCAA Regionals and we got a lot of work to do. We’ll embrace that and try to be ready when it’s time to go.”

Vanderbilt reached the championship match by knocking off Alabama 4-1 in the semifinals.

The Commodores got a 5&4 win from Sherwood and then a 4&2 win for Davenport. Ott then sank a long birdie putt on 17 to clinch the match with a 3&1

The Skyhawks won their first OVC men’s golf title in five years and earned an invitation to the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship

victory. Reidel also won his match 3&1 Earlier, the Commodores took down Tennessee behind wins from Ott, Davenport, Reidel and Moll.

In the stroke play portion of the tournament, Vanderbilt shot 853 to finish sixth in the team standings, led

by Sherwood’s tie for fifth place behind Arkansas’ Segundo Pinto, who finished at 204. Sherwood was five shots back at 209.

Tennessee’s Spencer Cross finished fourth at 209.

UT-Martin wins 2nd OVC men’s title

The University of Tennessee at Martin is headed to the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship.

Five years to the day after it won its first OVC men’s golf championship, the Skyhawks repeated the feat by winning the 2021 championship held at The Shoals on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

Entering the final round with a two-shot lead, UT Martin overcame a slow start to hold off a Belmont squad by the same twostroke margin. The Skyhawks shot a 292 in the final round to finish at 861. That final score is the best OVC Championship 54hole performance in school history and is 18 shots better than the 2015-16 squad shot on their way to the league title.

Individually, Jack Story shot a 68 for the third consecutive day and finished tied with Belmont’s Evan Davis for medalist honors at 12-under-par 204. Davis birdied the final two holes to catch Story and earn a bid to the upcoming NCAA championship.

“I don’t have the right words but I am so proud of this team,” Skyhawk head coach Austin Swafford said. “We had guys come back for this moment right here and they have all worked their tail off. We are blessed and excited.”

It was Story’s third collegiate win, and he joined Brendon Caballero (2015) and Hunter Richardson (2016-17) as the only Skyhawks to chalk up OVC Championship medalist honors. Also, Nick Wolf finished 15th at 220, while Jacob Uehlein was 17th and finished at 221. Ross Redmont and Tate Chumley were another shot back at 222.

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May 2021

Water is prevalent on the final four holes at Sultan’s Run

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Sultan’s Run has a stately clubhouse overlooks the golf course

Sultan’s Run: One of Indiana’s best golf courses

By David Theoret Dubois County in Indiana is home to several large businesses: Best Home Furnishings in Ferdinand, Farbest Foods in Huntingburg, and Kimball Electronics and Jasper Engines in Jasper. It is also home to one of the state’s top-ranked golf courses, Sultan’s Run, a true golfing masterpiece.

Since opening in 1992, Sultan’s Run has received its fair share of accolades including Indiana Golf Course of the Year by INGCOA in 2015 and the No. 6 Course to Play in Indiana

by Golfweek in 2019. It also hosted some prestigious golf events including the 2016 Indiana PGA Senior Open, Web.Com Tour Qualifiers, Golfweek Midwest Junior Classic.

Golf Digest has awarded Sultan’s Run 4.5 stars, although it easily could get five stars.

Just four years after opening, it underwent an extensive remodeling project. Under the

guidance of Pete Dye disciple Tim Liddy, all 18 holes were reworked in some way or another.

Zoysia fairways were planted, bunkers were added or taken out and reimagined on others. Greens were reconstructed and some holes were given a total makeover. In the end, Sultan’s Run emerged as a world-class facility that will have golfers of all calibers talking about it long after they leave the course.

The length at Sultan’s Run may not scare anyone away, but the slope rating tells a much different story. The back (Black) Tees play 6,859 yards with a course rating of 73.5 and a slope of 143. The average slope in the US is around 120, (155 is the highest) so you get the idea it’s not going to be a walk in the park. Move up to the Gold Tees and the yardage drops to 6,429 but the slope only drops to 138. Two other tee boxes play to yardages of 5,762 (Silver) and 4,911 (Green).

The worst-case scenario is you move up a set

of tees and still have a great time.

This parkland layout is nestled in the heart of Southern Indiana and stretches across 224-plus rolling acres of hardwood forests, water hazards and wildlife. As you make your way around the course, you’ll play along rolling hills and tree-lined valleys, around three lakes and a myriad of streams, and encounter wonderful and well-maintained bunkering. What you won’t see at Sultan’s Run are houses and that’s not likely to change anytime soon; it’s just you, mother nature, and that little white ball. This is truly one of Indiana’s most scenic layouts.

Stepping to the first tee, the slope and rolling terrain is evident and when you step up to the second tee you get a sense of the elevation changes. At 326 yards, No. 7 is a great risk/reward opportunity and you don’t have to kill it off the tee. A well-struck drive over the fairway bunker on the left that

catches the downhill slope of the fairway can easily get you on the green in the right conditions.

Water isn’t much of a factor until the 15th hole, but it ramps up considerably over the final four holes Number 15 is a 375-yard par 4 with a large lake on the left off the tee and a creek running down the right.

Number 16 is a 175-yard par 3 that plays downhill into a green surrounded by sand and water. The green is large with a lot of undulation so finding the green off the tee doesn’t guarantee a good score.

The 18th hole is easily the most memorable hole and is dubbed Supreme Sultan, the course’s namesake. It’s a 412-yard par-4 dogleg right with a picturesque waterfall behind the green. After the last putt is holed, grab your smartphone and take a picture with the waterfall to create a lasting memory.

According to Course Superintendent Brett Popp, the variety of grasses used on the course can sometimes be a challenge to keep in peak condition. The Zoysia tees, fairways, and green collars are fairly easy to maintain because the grass is very hardy and can handle extreme hot and cold temperatures.

The Bentgrass greens are another story.

Several greens are well hidden by trees which restricts airflow, causing the greens to become overheated. To combat this, several holes will see the surrounding woods thinned considerably to increase airflow, yet not detract from the existing aesthetics of the golf course.

The pro shop at Sultan’s Run offers some of the best equipment and apparel designed to complement your game. Pro Shop Manager Pat Schuler and PGA Professional Jeff Howerton have created their own Sultan’s Run apparel label with a silhouetted logo of the memorable racehorse.

Sultan’s Run Golf Club boasts impressive practice facilities including a high-capacity driving range and putting green. General Manager Chris Tretter is heavily involved with kids golf in the area and plans on greatly expanding the practice area in the near future to include a comprehensive short game area and the creation of the Sultan’s Run Golf Academy.

In addition to the new practice facilities, plans are for several cottages to be added in the not too distant future, allowing for stayand-play packages. Beyond that, an indoor golf entertainment venue with a restaurant, a pitch-and-putt course, and a boutique hotel are all in the longer-term plans.

For more information, go to www.sultansrun. com.

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Golf in full swing at The Legacy The greens are rolling great, warmer weather is upon us, and the grass is turning green. The golf season is about to get into full swing and the staff at The Legacy would like to see you out on the course.

Couples, come and join us this summer for the new series of events. We are going to have a 9- hole couples scramble and dinner afterwards on a Saturday afternoon once a month in May, June, July, August and September.

The first event is May 8. We will have a 3:30 p.m. shotgun start and have dinner after play. The cost for two non-members is $65, one member and one guest the cost is $45 and two members the cost is $25. The price includes green fees, cart fees, range balls and dinner

after play. Mark your calendars with the upcoming dates May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14 and September 11.

June is junior golf month at The Legacy. The Robertson County Junior Association is having the junior golf clinics again this year. The clinics are for Robertson County residents and the surrounding area of middle Tennessee. We will have junior golf clinics on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to introduce the game of golf to hopefully 96 juniors in the month of June.

Each week we will have 24 juniors for the three days for a 90 -minute clinic each day. The clinics are free to the juniors and sign-ups will start on May 10.

Hope to see you soon at The Legacy.

Thank you, Kevin Holler, PGA Director of Golf The Legacy Golf Course

The Robertson County Junior Association will again have clinics in June at The Legacy

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Spark golf is all about fun, socializing Tee Times Report Unlike some golf leagues, Spark Golf is more of a social happening than actual competition. It’s designed to for flexibility and fun, not grinding over three-footers to win a match.

There are several Spark leagues in Tennessee, but one of the most successful is at Shelby Golf Course in Nashville.

In other words, it was perfect Daryl Edens, PGA and Shelfor Dan Cleff, who recently by manager advises Spark signed up to play in the Shelby Golf good for his players league.

“I found out about this league meeting new just searching for golf leagues in the and The mighty “Shelby Walkers” Nashville area,” Cleff said, “What stood friends. On his recent Reed Collins (far right) enjoyed round, he was paired From left: Stephanie Verheyen, Dan Cleff, Joe out about Spark Golf is the flexibility to his threesome on the first day Bibelhausen and Lee Pope have joined the not have to commit to play every single through the league. of league play at Shelby for “We didn’t know each Spark Golf League at Shelby Golf Course week in advance. Another great aspect Spark Golf was the fact that it was promoted as a other going into the very casual, fun league. Some of the league,” he said. “The and have been hoping to find people other leagues at other golf courses are league gives you the ability to sign to play with so that I can get out more up either with someone you know or much more competitive and this seems often in the summer,” she said. “I also like a great way to just get out and play by yourself and you get paired with like that it’s a laid back, social league another person looking for a playing more golf and have fun while doing it.” and everyone is teamed up based on “I think the pandemic pushed Spark Golf touts the ability to play nine partner. It’s a good way to meet new their skill level, so it never felt like people who also enjoy golf in the area.” everyone outside as I’m seeing a lot of holes in under two hours on weekday Daryl Edens, the general manager at anyone was holding anyone else up in younger unexperienced people trying evenings as a person’s schedule allows. our foursome.”

It consists of golfers like Cleff, who Shelby, said Spark Golf sounded like Verheyen plans on being a league out the game of golf lately,” he said.

Collins said he is a once-a-week are looking more for enjoyment than a good idea and decided to give it a regular. chance. He was pleased at the turnout golfer who also enjoys playing Sunday actual competition.

“I registered for 18 rounds of Spark mornings at the Vinny Links par 3 “I thought it was a lot of fun,” Cleff said on a day not that well-suited for golf. this year, and already know I won’t “It sounded fun and something good of a recent round. “Everyone was very be able to use them all (luckily they course.

“You only have to carry about four laid back which made it a great time. for golfers who have played here and roll over to next season), so I am Meeting new people around the same those that wanted to,” he said. “We committed,” she said. “Shelby is the clubs to play nine holes and it allows age who like to golf but also not take were pleasantly pleased that of the 28 most convenient league for me since you to practice your short game in a it too seriously was a huge reason for scheduled golfers, 25 showed up to play I live in East Nashville, and the price changing environment rather than just on a blustery, overcast day. Matt Justice chipping/putting at the same practice signing up and it didn’t disappoint.” was one of the best as well.”

Playing at Shelby is a no-brainer for with Spark Golf took care of everything Reed Collins was one of three players green for an hour,” he said. “I probably and just let us know numbers of Cleff, given its location. who walked his nine holes at Shelby, only play 18 holes once a month mostly “I plan to continue to play at the Shelby players. Our feedback could not have which has considerable elevation due to a lack of playing partners, but hopefully Spark golf will help change Golf Course location for Spark Golf,” been better.”

Stephanie Verheyen learned of Spark changes. He said he has played golf that.” he said. “It’s just the most convenient on and off since high school, but only Golf through an Instagram ad.

To find a league, go to spark.golf for location for me.” recently began taking the game more “I was very excited because I don’t more information.

And, he’ll continue to enjoy playing have many golfer friends in Nashville, seriously.

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GOLFTEC continues tradition of quality instruction GOLFTEC Birmingham has 3 teaching/practice bays, along with a putting green and is staffed by a veteran team of highly trained and certified coaches. These individuals leverage GOLFTEC’s world-renowned teaching technology – including advanced motion measurement, video analysis and premium launch monitors – to help any student find the lesson plan best suited for their unique needs.

GOLFTEC students drop an average of seven strokes from their scores per year.

GOLFTEC Birmingham has been helping people from all over Alabama play better golf for over 15 years. In 2017 we moved into a completely new and renovated location near the I-459/280 interchange. Over the 15-plus year history of our Birmingham location, we have taught over 36,000 lessons and helped nearly 3,500 golfers improve their game through our state-of-the-art teaching facility. Our training and club fittings cover all aspects of the game from driver through putter, as well as on course lessons. With our three highly trained PGA coaches and our data-driven teaching, we are able to help everyone from beginners, all the way up to aspiring professionals.

Nick Massey is the center manager and Director of Instruction. Nick is a PGA Associate who played golf collegiately at Huntingdon College in Alabama. He has been with GOLFTEC for five years and taught over 6,000 lessons, helping more than 400 golfers improve their game.

Kayland Boling is a certified personal coach.

Kayland is a PGA Associate and a highly decorated player/teacher from Knoxville Tennessee. She played golf collegiately at Freed-Hardeman University.

Garrett Powell is a certified personal coach.

Garrett is a PGA certified professional. He has worked at many high-end clubs throughout his career including Quail Hollow and Shoal Creek in Birmingham, AL. GOLFTEC Birmingham also features the company’s enhanced custom club fitting program.

The TOUR-like fitting experience combines swing characteristics with ball flight data to help identify optimal golf equipment for each student. An array of clubhead/shaft options are available to perfectly match players of any skill level with the clubs that best meet their needs. Nearly 75% of all golfers who went through a club fitting in 2020 gained an average of 25 yards over their previous equipment.

Since 1995, GOLFTEC’s mission has remained the same—to help people play better golf. The GOLFTEC experience is built to offer a place where golfers of all ages and ability levels can work with an expert in golf instruction to build a game improvement plan customized to their specific needs and goals. And with the aid of technology that gives our students and coaches instant and data-driven feedback, we’re helping people find their potential in ways that accelerate the improvement journey.

GOLFTEC Birmingham features three teachers to help improve your game and offers instruction for every club in your bag and playing lessons

Club fitting is an essential part of GOLFTEC’s services

May 2021

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TEE TIMES

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Aces Ol’ Colony

Seth Terrell made a hole-in-one on No. 17, a 178-yard par 3, with a pitching wedge. Witnesses were Josh Hilliker, Andrew Crowell, Shane Mills and Daryl Cory.

Two Rivers

Mark Harrison aced No. 8, a 161-yard par 3, with a 5-iron earlier this year at Two Rivers Golf Course. Witnesses were Robert Eslick and Andy Power.

Henry Horton

Randal Robinson of Franklin, Tennessee, made a hole-in-one at Henry Horton Golf Course on April 25. Robinson aced No. 16, a 140-yard par 3, with a 7-iron. It’s the first hole-in-one of his career. Witnesses were Glenn Coles and Brian Hicks.

GreyStone Golf Club

Donnie Weiss made a hole-in-one on No. 11, a 124-yard par 3, with a pitching wedge. Witnesses were Dennis Sheard and Richard Arnold

Two Rivers Golf Course

Team Tennessee beats Arkansas at Simmons Bank Cup matches Tee Times Report MEMPHIS – After two rounds at the Simmons Bank Cup matches, Team Tennessee found itself holding a narrow three-point lead over its counterparts from Arkansas.

In essence, the inaugural Simmons Bank Cup title was still up for grabs. No one, though, could have predicted the Volunteer State’s coming storm in singles play. Team Tennessee won 10.5 of a possible 14 points on the final day at TPC Southwind to roll to a final 19-9 victory over Arkansas.

Winning singles matches for Tennessee were: Matt Mitchell, Matt Cooper, Ryan Terry, Jesse Lawley, Teleri Hughes, Buzz Fly, Jeff Golliher,

Tim Jackson, Sarah Ingram and Erica Chappell.

Todd Burgan halved his singles match.

The event, consisting of top amateurs from each state, did not start out like an easy win for Team Tennessee. Arkansas jumped out to a 4.5-2.5 lead in the fourball matches.

The teams of Lee Maxwell-Todd Burgan and Ingram/Chappell provided Tennessee’s wins in fourball, while Fly/Jackson halved their match.

Momentum turned in foursomes play with Team Tennessee winning 6 of 7 points. Netting wins were the teams of Cooper-Mitchell, Lucas Armstrong-Ryan Terry, Lawley-Hughes, Jackson-Fly, Jeff and Steve Golliher, and Ingram-Chappell.

Members of Team Tennessee and Team Arkansas pose after the final day of play at the Simmons Bank Cup matches. Team Tennessee won 19-9

Henry Horton State Park Golf Course

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TEE TIMES

May 2021

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