November 2014
FREE
Keeping Golfers Connected in TN, KY, MS, AL, NC
November 2014
Honoring PGA Tennessee Section’s best Pages 2-3
Inside!! 7
End of an era: Huddleston to retire
15
NWGA celebrates 90th anniversary
22
Milner: Gone, but not forgotten
Golf House Tennessee
Audie Johnson
Kevin Snell
Loren Personett
2014 Bolle Senior Player of the Year
2014 Ogio Assistant Player of the Year
2014 Bushnell Player of the Year
2
November 2014
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Honoring PGA Tennessee Section’s best By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times Editor As we put 2014 behind, some deserving PGA Professionals from the Tennessee Section are reaping the rewards for great play among their peers. Their awards will be presented at the PGA Tennessee Section annual meeting and awards luncheon in the spring. However, Tee Times wants to recognize these individuals who are well-known to our readers. Their love of the game and their competitive nature speak volumes. Hardly an issue of Tee Times hits the racks that at least one of these familiar faces and names are featured for adding another tourna-
ment victory to their resume. It is an honor to write about these PGA Professionals and realize that they not only play and compete, but work hard at their courses to insure that all of us who love the game can come and play. For these PGA professionals, competition is secondary to their daily club pro duties. Their logo cites these men and women as “The Experts in the Game and Business of Golf. This year’s winners are: Bushnell Player of the Year Loren R. Personett Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. Loren’s club is McCabe Golf Course, a Metro Parks golf course located in Nashville.
Loren Personett
Bolle Senior Player of the Year Audie S. Johnson Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. Audie’s club is the 27-hole facility, McCabe Field Golf Course, located in west Nashville.
first class PGA professionals as the faces of our tournament program, and hope they continue to inspire others to play this great game of golf.” Personett is the Bushnell Player
Ogio Assistant Player of the Year Kevin D. Snell Resides in Eagleville. His club is Henry Horton Golf Course, a Tennessee State Parks facility located in Chapel Hill. “First, I would like to congratulate all three recipients of the Tennessee PGA Player of the Year Awards,” Tennessee PGA Executive Director Jeff Abbot said. “Loren, Audie and Kevin are no strangers to these awards, which show their commitment to the Tennessee PGA and their outstanding level of play. We are proud to have these
of the Year for the ninth time. He also won the Assistant Player of the Year award five (5) times, for a total of 14 assistant and regular player of the year awards. Personett’s season was highlighted with first-place finishes at the Middle Tennessee Chapter Championship, City of Crossville Team Championship, Lincoln’s Classic, and Pro-Super. He also finished runner-up at the 46th Tennessee Professional Championship. Johnson is the Bolle Senior Player of the Year for the first time to go along with three regular Player of the Year awards and one Assistant Player of the Year award. Audie’s 2014 season was highlighted with a first-place finishes at the Capital City Golf Association Open, City of Crossville Team Championship, Assistant Championship and Players Championship. He also made the cut in the 75th Senior PGA Championship, 26th Senior PGA Professional National Championship and the Assistants National. Snell is the Ogio Assistant Player of the Year for the second consecutive year. Snell’s season was highlighted with a first-place finish at the Harold Eller Pro-Am. He had second-place finishes at The Classic, City of Crossville Team Championship, Assistant Championship, Lincoln’s Classic, Players Championship, Pro-Pro
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
“The Tennessee Section PGA Player of the Year race is held throughout the year at tournaments all over the Section. The Tennessee PGA would like to thank Rob Spencer of Bushnell, Bolle and Ogio for the continued support of this year long point race. The help and the continued assistance from all of the Section partners are the reason our PGA Professionals can compete in successful events, that the Tennessee PGA staff feel they deserve. We are grateful for all of the companies that partner with the Tennessee PGA, and we hope that you can find the time to thank each of them and give them the opportunity to earn your business.�
Jeff Abbot
Jeff Abbot, Executive Director Graham Honeycutt, Director of Operations David Olinger, Tournament Director Adam Greeno, Assistant Tournament Director
Kevin Snell
Championship and a third-place finish at the Pro-Pro-Pro Scramble. He had a scoring average of 69.8 on the year and made the cut at the Assistant National Championship.
Audie Johnson
3
4
November 2014
TEE TIMES
From tHE Editor By Gregg Dewalt
These days, it’s not so much about the score By Gregg Dewalt Tee Times editor Wow. Another year is about to come to an end. Time flies when you are having fun or getting older, I guess. But here we are, wrapping up another year of Tee Times. For publisher/owners Joe and Carol Hall and I, we hope you have enjoyed reading this year. We have tried to provide some insight to the multitude of great golf courses in the region. We have tried to shine the spotlight on some per-
Swan Lake
a player's course with beautiful vistas and friendly staff.
sonalities and provide informative stories on happenings in the world of golf in middle Tennessee and beyond. I hope you took advantage of the golf instruction articles. Our lineup of professionals enjoy helping you improve and get the most out of your game. I hope you found a couple of new places to tee it up in the coming months or found a destination to discover on that next golf vaca-
We love our Seniors/55+ Call for your special rate
(931)
648-0479
581 581 Dunbar Dunbar Cave Cave Road Road Clarksville, Clarksville, Tennessee Tennessee 37043 37043
Take Take I-24w. I-24w. for for a a short short scenic scenic drive drive to to exit exit #4, #4, just just minutes minutes north north of of Nashville. Nashville. Jeff Vaughn, PGA Professional
tion. If you are like me, when the calendar turns over one of my New Year’s Resolutions always is to play more golf. As life gets busier and busier, I find that harder to do. When I want to practice, it seems as if something needs doing around the house. Or something comes up at my other, real-world job. Or, we’ve got another Tee Times issue to put to bed. I play golf in spurts. I have about four outings per year in which I play multiple rounds. Much of my other golf is played in Dixie Section PGA Pro-member Monday events. Those are the most fun I have these days – it fuels my competitive ap-
Gregg Dewalt
petite while playing some great golf courses at a reasonable rate. Surprisingly, my game has remained decent -- for me, anyway. This past year my best round was a 73 and my worst was an 82. The best part is I don’t get as frustrated now as I used to. My expectations are lower and it’s more about enjoying the game, the day and Carol and Joe Hall the people I’m playing with. Don’t get me wrong, I still grind on the course but at the end of the day it’s about enjoying the experience. I’m not much on technology. I don’t have a rangefinder. I don’t have a 60degree wedge. My sand wedge is an In stroke play, a player’s old Ben Hogan Special. It goes about 75 ball lies in a hazard. The yards. I haven’t changed putters in about ball moves as a result of his 10 years – the old Odyssey 2-ball still removal of a small acorn, lying in works pretty well when I don’t have the the hazard. What is the ruling? shakes. And that’s OK. My score still matters There is no penalty. but I cherish more the time spent outside on a lush tract of land in the wide There is a one stroke penalty. open spaces doing something I’ve loved There is a two stroke penalty. for the past 40-some years. Thanks for reading and keep it in the There is a total penalty of three strokes. short grass. Answer: C Gregg Dewalt
Rules of Golf Q and A Weekdays - Mon.-Fri. $28 w/cart Weekends & Holidays $35 w/cart
www.teetimespaper.com
Q:
A B C D
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
EWGA hosts end of year dinner
Tee Times report The Executive Women’s Golf Association handed out awards and celebrated another year at its annual end of the year dinner recently at Ellendale’s Restaurant in Donelson. Fran Coffland was honored as the most improved player for shaving four strokes off her handicap throughout the year while playing 65 rounds. Coffland was a double winner with her selection as the first Jeannie Musterman Volunteer of the Year award for her efforts with the organization. Trophies were presented to Match Play winner Connie Smith and Match Play First Flight winner Lisa Dreher. Dottie Dube, the 2013 Match Play winner, also was honored. Among the year’s highlights were: • The addition of 24 new members and six former members returning to the membership, resulting in a 106 total chapter members; • The expansion of after-work leagues that were played at McCabe, Nashsboro and Hermitage; • Moving more than 12,000 pounds of food at Second Harvest Food Bank in one morning; • Raising $10,200 at the fifth Homes for our Troops tournament that attracted 30 foursomes.
• Donating funds to the EWGA Foundation ($250), the First Tee ($250), Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition ($250), and the Second Harvest Food Bank ($150). The outgoing Board was recognized, and the incoming Board members were introduced and recognized as well.
MIDDLE TENNESSEE CHAPTER
2014 Board:
President - Karen Richards Member Recruitment Director - Lisa Dreher Member Services Director - Linda Wells Events and Activities Director - Shelly Steel Golf Programs and Services Director - Cindy Taylor Marketing Director - Gina Lober Finance and Records Director - Marie Tucker
2015 Board:
President - Karen Richards Member Recruitment Director - Lisa Dreher Member Services Director - Linda Wells Events and Activities Director - Donna Ruggles Golf Programs and Services Director - Carolyn McGrath-Yates Marketing Director - Catherine McEwen Communications Director - Beth Nagy Finance and Records Director - Terry Applegate
Jack Musterman, husband of beloved Jeannie Musterman, presents Fran Coffland with the first Jeannie Musterman Volunteer of the Year award.
PUBLISHER Joe Hall pgegolf@bellsouth.net
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Hamilton
EDITOR Gregg Dewalt
TECHNICAL ADVISOR Jimmy Phillips
SENIOR EDITOR David Widener widecard@aol.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carol Hall teetimescarol@bellsouth.net
jonh2520@att.net
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Lawrence
PRINTING Franklin Web Printing Company FOUNDER - Joey Smith
Established in 1991, Tee Times is published monthly, ten times per year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
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
TEE TIMES
5
6
November 2014
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
TGA honors Jackson, McLennan, Wimberly Tee Times report FRANKLIN – For the first time in its 100year history, one man claimed both Player of the Year and Senior Player of the Year in the Tennessee Golf Association. Germantown’s Tim Jackson etched his name in the TGA record book by sweeping both awards for 2014. It’s the first time in association history one player has won both honors in the same year. Signal Mountain’s Emily McLennan was named Women’s Player of the Year, while Brentwood’s Lynda Wimberly is the Senior Women’s Senior Player of the Year. Jackson, who turned 55 this year, took advantage of being able to play in TGA and USGA senior amateur events for the first time. A 2009 inductee of the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame, Jackson often is on the leaderboard of any event he enters and the 2014 SunTrust State Open was no exception. Jackson finished tied for seventh in the TGA’s season-opening event at Belle Meade Country Club. During the summer, Jackson added three more solid finishes to his resume. He finished second at the Tennessee Senior Match Play at Holston Hills Country Club,
and tied for second at the Tennessee Senior Amateur at Jackson Country Club. In his first ever appearance at the US Senior Amateur Championship, Jackson jumped atop the leaderboard after the opening round of stroke play qualifying and later claimed the second seed in the match play bracket. Jackson made it to the round of 16 before losing to Michigan’s Randal Lewis on the 20th hole at the Big Canyon Country Club in Newport Beach, California. Jackson’s crowning achievement came at the State Amateur Championship, where he became the oldest winner of the event at 55 years, 5 months. Jackson’s 1-under par 279 total earned him his sixth career State Amateur title and his 15th TGA championship overall. This is Jackson’s tenth
Tim Jackson added a fifth-place finish at the Tennessee Mid-Amateur at The Honors Course,
Amateur Championship at The Members Club at Woodcreek in Elgin, South Carolina. Wimberly had a busy, successful summer that started at the Tennessee Women’s Amateur Championship at Cherokee Country Club. She tied for 24th in the 36-hole stroke play qualifier to win the newly reinstated Mildred Bosson Trophy, presented to the senior stroke play medalist. In the match play portion of the tournament, Wimberly reached the semifinals before losing to McLennan, the eventual champion. Wimberly was the only player from Tennessee to qualify for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship at Hollywood Golf Club in Deal, New Jersey. Although she didn’t advance to match play, it prepared her for the Tennessee Women’s Senior Amateur Championship the next week. With a four-stroke Emily McLennan lead going into the final round, Wimberly held off a late charge by Charleston’s Maggie Scott, to win in a one-hole playoff. Scott, a nine-time recipient of the Women’s Senior Amateur Connie Day trophy, shot 71 in the final round to make up an eight-shot deficit to force the playoff. It was Wimberly’s first Tennessee Women’s Senior Amateur title. She closed out the season at the Southeastern Women’s Amateur Team Championship where she helped Team Tennessee win the event for only the third time in the event’s 22year history.
Player of the Year Award and first Senior Amateur Player of the Year Award. McLennan, a native of Australia, is a junior business major at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She closed her college season by winning the Southern Conference individual title and helping the Mocs to a fifth straight team title. That was a precursor to an even bigger summer season. At the suggestion of her college coach, McLennan entered the Tennessee Women’s Amateur, easily qualified for match play and upset Kendall Martindale 3 and 2 in the championship match for her first TGA victory. Later in the summer, McLennan finished tied for 14th in the 93player Women’s Trans National
Lynda Wimberly
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
TEE TIMES
7
End of an era: Huddleston looks forward to retirement Tee Times report
tournament venues in the state. “I have loved Fairfield Glade, no matter which course I have been at or serving as the golf director for a few years,” he said. “When I came to Stonehenge about seven years ago, the thing I wanted to do was to get some state events back to the course and get us back in golfers’ conversations all across the state.” Huddleston has done that and more. “We are currently hosting the Tennessee Women’s Open, the Tennessee Senior Open, the State Father/Son Championship and the Tennessee Cup Matches so I think we have achieved some of our goals,” Huddleston said. “The course is
will always have and cherish.” Huddleston said he has great respect for his co-workers and staff, starting with Kraft and assistant pro Corey Wade and filtering down to the part-time help who work in the shop and outside. “Steve Kraft has had a big impact on improving and upgrading the facilities and courses in the 11 years he has been here,” Huddleston said. “Corey came here this past season as an assistant professional after about five years at Dorchester and has been a big help during the year we worked together. Our shop help and outside staff consist of fourteen people who live at the Glade at work part time for us. They all take a lot of pride in their community and the course and do a very good job.”
Like so many of us, Warren Huddleston is looking forward to playing a little more golf in retirement. Imagine that, a golf professional retiring so he can play more golf. Seems a little backwards, doesn’t it? But in the ever-changing world of the golf industry, golf pros really don’t get the opportunity to play a lot. There’s too much to do – a shop to run, lessons to give, customer service to offer. So Huddleston, who retired in midDecember, wants to tee it up more often. He’d like to do a little more fishing at his lake cabin too. And, maybe spend some time traveling with his wife Rhonda and seeing Warren and wife, Rhonda at Tidewa Stonehenge pro Warren Huddleston and Tracy ter year’s his grandkids. GC in Myrtle Beach recently Parsons, Director, Women’s Golf, TGA at this ng No matter how Huddleston Tennessee Women’s Open. Huddleston is retiri after 40 years at Fairfield Glade. chooses to spend his leisure time, one thing is for sure – there will be Bobby Greenwood, a former PGA Tour a void in the golf shop at the Stonehenge Golf Club in the Fairfield Glade community player and Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame of east Tennessee. After approximately member, said fellow pros consider 40 years at the facility, Huddleston has Huddleston a mentor and leader. “Warren is a wonderful Christian decided to call it a career. “It just seems right,” Huddleston said of man with a super warm personality,” his decision. “I have been here for about Greenwood said. “His fellow golf pros 40 years and have seen the golf grow in the Tennessee Section PGA consider from nine holes to its current 90. There him their leader and role model. We are are things I want to do while I’m healthy so proud of Warren. After leaving the -- play more golf and spend more time on PGA Tour, I tried to model myself as a club pro at Sawgrass Country Club just the lake fishing and be able to travel.” A Cookeville native, Huddleston who like Warren Huddleston had shown me is the head professional at Stonehenge, throughout his career.” Huddleston, who still enjoys teaching began working at Fairfield Glade while a business major at Tennessee Tech but allows the assistant pros to do much of it to supplement University. He became a Class A PGA professional in 1983 and never felt the need to move on. That’s a rarity these Huddleston praised the job course days. superintendent Sean VanHoose has done “Fairfield Glade has given me a wonderful in his seven years at the course. opportunity to work with a great group of “Everybody can see the improvements people,” Huddleston said. “The staff over he has made to the conditioning and the years has been outstanding to work upgrades to the course,” Huddleston said. with and the membership and guests “With bent grass on tees, fairways and that come through have been terrific. greens it can be a challenge during parts They have influenced my life so much of the year to maintain the quality of the and I will truly miss the interaction with course and Sean and his staff do a great all the folks at the Glade.” job.” Steve Kraft, director of golf at the Huddleston, who began playing golf at Fairfield Glade Community Club, age 13 at the urging of his uncle, John acknowledged it is unusual for someone Warren, can’t wait to play more than the in the golf business to stay in one place once-a-week he enjoys now. He has other for so long. items on his to-do list in retirement. Warren Huddleston, PGA Head Pro “Warren has been here for all the growth “I have plans, with more time available, Director of Golf for Fairfield Glad fessional at Stonehenge, Steve Kraft, PGA, of golf at Fairfield and has been a big part e cou rses , and Mat to be more involved at our church, playing t Van derp ool, Director for the Tennessee Golf Ass Exe of the success of Fairfield Glade,” Kraft ociation at the Tennessee Cup Matche cutive with the grandkids and taking better s. said. “I have had the opportunity to work care of myself,” he said. “I am an insulin with Warren for the last 10 years and I dependent diabetic and encourage can honestly say I have never met a finer their income, said looking for other jobs challenging and fun to play and was never a consideration. Instead, he person than Warren Huddleston. He it is very rewarding to hear the praises everyone to take care of themselves so truly cares about all the members, staff enjoyed the challenge of helping turn about the course that come in on a daily they can enjoy a long life and happy and guests that come to play or work. He his facility into the best it could be. basis. I have made a lot of friends through retirement. The Lord has blessed me very Now, Stonehenge is one of the premier golf and the Glade and that is something I much and I am very thankful.” will be missed.”
8
November 2014
TEE TIMES
Around Nashville Fairways John Holmes Assistant Director of Parks
the first golf course in Nashville to achieve this standing. They are the 18th in the state of Tennessee and the 899th in the world. Less than 3% of all golf courses worldwide can say that they are formally recognized for their commitment to the environment. It has taken many people, many years to get where we are today. This has been a truly collaborative
www.teetimespaper.com
quired standards for protecting water quality, conserving natural resources, and providing wildlife habitats. Certified Sanctuaries such as the Harpeth Hills Golf Course are private and public properties that contribute to our conservation landscape by protecting and sustaining land, water, wildlife, and natural resources. By following Audubon International’s guidelines and achieving these high standards Harpeth Hills has been able to reduce fertilizer and chemical inputs into the environment, and decrease the amount of water used to irrigate. It has chosen to mow less and allow more natural areas to grow up to provide habitats for birds, deer and other wildlife. Harpeth Hills has also demonstrated its commitment to educate their community of their choice to become a Sanctuary Program by providing signage around the course and developing these interpretive panels. Today we would like to commend Harpeth Hills and its partners, FOWP, WP Nature Center, Metro Parks, and Mayor Dean for their innovative green strategies and conservation leadership.
Hello to our readers, I’m excited to share some news about one of our golf courses. Back on October 6th, we came together as a community to honor Harpeth Hills Golf Course, for achieving the status of an Audubon International Sanctuary. This was no small feat and it was my understanding that the idea and implementing the steps to get started on this began some 16 plus years ago. According to Kristin Taylor of Friends of Warner Parks, they were able to get certified in a couple of the categories at that time but had to (L-R) Jill Smith, former Warner Park employee started this project shelve the other steps until cer16 years ago; Christy Smith, Metro Parks Board Member; Tommy tain changes were made and the Lynch, Parks Director; Kevin Roddey, Treasurer, Friends of Warner force behind this made the time Parks; Mayor Karl Dean, Kristin Taylor, Vice Chair Friends of to began the process. This proWarner Parks; Mark Weller, Executive Director, Friends of Warner cess picked up where they had left Parks, Alex Wade, Friends of Warner Park; Bill Blevins, Chair off back in 2010. So let’s start the Friends of Warner Parks; Bob Parrish, Friends of Warner Parks journey off with Jill Smith……. In 1998, Ray Eaton and I began of an amazing collaborative effort work on the ACSS program. Ray that has spanned 16 years of time was the Pro at the Harpeth Hills and dedication. Jill Smith - former Golf Course and a nature enthuUrban Forestry Specialist, Warner siast. He quickly agreed to devotParks ing time and attention to get the Kristen Taylor began our ceremoHarpeth Hills Golf Course certified ny, she said; as an Audubon Sanctuary. Over Thank you all for coming today several years, changes were made to help celebrate Harpeth Hill’s that enhanced the golfers experiachievement of becoming an Auduence and relinquished more of the bon Cooperative Sanctuary. This course to the wildlife residents. is a “BIG Deal” as Harpeth Hills is Enthusiasm surrounded the golf course as each certifiMetro Parks Director Tommy Lynch, Mayor Karl Dean, and cation was achieved. Kristen Taylor, Board Vice President of Friends of Warner The Warner Parks Park at the unveiling of the plaque. Nature Center began partnering with the course to provide nature programs for the effort. I’d like to thank the peoTheir hard work serves as an exgolf community. Cerple at Harpeth Hills, FOWP, the ample of how purposeful environtifications came to a WP Nature Center and Metro mental stewardship can truly make standstill until Friends Parks for showing their leadera difference. Today we would like of Warner Parks proship and commitment to this to present to you the 1st Audubon vided funding and supcomprehensive environmental Certified golf course in Nashville, port to complete the program. TN. –Kristen Taylor, Vice-President last 2 certifications. Jill Smith, Mayor Karl Dean, and Kristen Audubon International recof Friends of Warner Park. The certification of Taylor. These ladies began and finished ognizes golf courses that demOur Mayor, Karl Dean was on hand the Harpeth Hills Golf the long process to see Harpeth Hills onstrate their commitment to at the ceremony, unveiling the Course as an Audubon Golf Course attain its certification. the environment. These ecoplaque and said; Sanctuary is the result friendly courses must meet re“With this accomplishment, our
www.teetimespaper.com
city is even closer to achieving the goal of being the greenest city in the Southeast. By enhancing our valuable natural areas and wildlife habitat and minimizing potentially harmful impacts, the Harpeth Hills Golf Course is truly leading by example as being the first Metro golf course to receive this honor. - Mayor Karl Dean, Mayor of Nashville Our Director of Metropolitan Parks, Tommy Lynch had words of praise for all involved; “This certification from the Audubon Society is confirmation of our commitment to preserve and protect the city’s parks. We believe good stewardship and sound natural resource management has a positive impact on our parkland but also is good for all the people that visit our parks each day. The work put in by our staff and our partners with The Friends of Warner Park is greatly appreciated. Our city should be proud of everything they did to acquire this designation and everything they will continue to do to maintain it.” - Tommy Lynch, Director of Metropolitan Parks. We checked in with Tara Perrerman, asking about the steps a course needs to take and where to begin, “The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf is an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. To become certified, a member course goes through a process of implementing and documenting environmental management practices in the areas of Environmental Planning, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Outreach and
November 2014
TEE TIMES
9
I Y F Sevierville Golf Club, not just golf
Ludye Wallace, retired Metro Councilman, nature lover, and an awesome photographer. Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management. This is typically a multi-year process for courses, and by managing the property with a high degree of environmental quality, certified courses provides green space for people and wildlife and help to conserve resources for future generations. The course can take as long as they need, and is very different for every course depending on their resources and time. We are thrilled about Harpeth Hills Golf Course attaining this certification, joining 17 other golf course in the state of Tennessee. - Tara Pepperman, Director of Cooperative Sanctuary Programs. Yes, Kristen reminds us that this was and is a “Big Deal” for our city and Harpeth Hills Golf Course. Until next time, keep it in the fairway - John Holmes
I want to take a moment to remind Tee Time readers that Sevierville Golf Club will be open going into late fall, throughout the winter months, and into early spring, weather permitting. We are easy access off of I-40 and just minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. We feel like we have so much to offer the entire family. We have 2 championship courses, The Highland and the River courses and well, one of the most awesome practice areas anywhere. We have a large clubhouse with a restaurant and full service bar, Mulligan’s. Our golf packages are some of the best anywhere in this region. I have to sing our praises because we get so many regulars who come from all over, and first time players stop by and rave about what we offer here. We are in the foothills of the Smokies and it is worth the trip just for the views, not to mention the golf. Yes, we are serious about being “Best in the Smokies.”-Mark Wallace, PGA Director of Golf.
Monell’s, good food, good times, the Southern Way
It has been a busy and awesome year for all of us here at Monell’s. We appreciate all who dined with us at one of our four locations. We continue to welcome any catering needs as well. If you have not had the occasion to come sit down, family style, and dine with us, you are cordially invited. Nothing gives us more pleasure than being able to serve you and say, Pass the Peas, Please! - Michael King, Owner, Monell’s Restaurants
Hermitage “Winternet” special is back!
From now through the end of February, every time you book your tee time online and play, you will receive an extra halfcredit toward your Freequent Player total. We read that the US is falling behind in our math skills, but this one isn’t that hard. Maybe you need just a little more to reach your 4th round this year, or you’ll start next year reaching your free round sooner. An extra half-credit is the same as spending up to $36.50. You’re saving money while earning your free rounds faster! We know we live in a world of instant gratification, but this is a no brainer. One of our goals is to see you more than just once, so we can get to know you better and reward that loyalty. If you’re not used to booking online, it’s easy and you only have to set your customer profile up once. Go to our website and click “book tee times online” and it will walk you right through the process. Plus, for you iPhone users, download our free app and it makes booking online that much easier. If you have any trouble, just give us a call and we’ll help get you set up.
Clarksville’s Swan Lake & Mason Rudolph Golf Courses invite you to check them out
(L-R) Asst.Parks Director, John Holmes, Clinton Scott, Greg Williams, Bill Dixon, Mayor Karl Dean, Parks Director, Tommy Lynch, James Carty, Bill Richardson, Phil Luckett, Supt. Of Metro Parks Golf Courses, and Kevin Forte, PGA and GM of Harpeth Hills and Percy Warner Golf Courses.
We are approaching late fall and winter, but please be advised, weather permitting, Swan Lake and Mason Rudolph here in Clarksville are open for play. Our superintendent and his crew take the time and effort to maintain our courses in what many consider” off season”. We here in the club house look forward to setting up a tee time for Swan Lake and as far as Mason Rudolph, come on out for play or practice, no tee times taken. Call or come by, open invitation to have fun at Swan Lake931-648-0479 or Mason Rudolph GC-931-645-7479. - Jeff Vaughn, PGA Professional and GM.
o o
November 2014
TEE TIMES
Opinion
www.teetimespaper.com
3TAY 0LAY THE BEST IN THE SMOKIES
By David Widener Member Golf Writers Association of America
Holmes embraces charity endeavors
Had enough of Ray Rice, Adrian Peterson and some of the other star athletes who seem to garner more than their share of negative publicity these days? Meet J.B. Holmes, the PGA Tour player from Campbellsville, Kentucky. He’s used his ability to make a lot of money on golf courses to help underprivileged kids and fight breast cancer. Not bad for a guy who had to overcome brain surgery and a fractured ankle to keep his career going. When law enforcement called on him at the PGA Championship in Louisville, it wasn’t to arrest him. The Kentucky State Police wanted to honor him for the support he gives to its Trooper Island, an area that gives underprivileged kids the opportunity to enjoy some summer camp experiences they normally wound not get to enjoy. Seven troopers showed up at the tournament to present Holmes with the honorary rank of State Trooper. “His willingness to help serve mankind is true to the core of what the Kentucky State Police is all about,� Trooper Billy Gregory said of Holmes. “It’s because of generous donations and support from people like J.B. that make Trooper Island possible.� Holmes pointed out his job is not very hard compared to what the state troopers do. “I’m fortunate that I’m able to help,� he said. “I’ve done really well being able to chase a little white ball around the world.� His support in the fight against breast cancer comes from the Pink Tie Ball he and his wife help run. “I had an aunt die of breast cancer, and I’ve had some hard times and been fortunate to pull through so I try to
give back and help when I can,� he said. The worst of times came in 2011 when his season was cut short because of brain surgery. He began feeling vertigolike symptoms in May and had surgery at John Hopkins University on Sept. 1 to repair Chiari malformations. A month later, he had to be airlifted from his Kentucky home to John Hopkins for another surgery because he was allergic to the adhesive used on the webbed titanium plate at the base of his skill. After recovering from that, Holmes’ 2013 season was cut short after six tournaments because of elbow and ankle injuries. He fractured his left ankle while rollerblading. “It’s been a long road to get back,� Holmes said. “When you go through anything like that, it’s going to change your life. I’ve tried to really focus on more, just appreciating the opportunities I have. If you have a bad week or miss the cut, it doesn’t really matter. It’s just a golf game, and no matter what I do, my family loves, God loves me, and I’ve got a good life.� Holmes rebounded from the setbacks nicely in 2014. He had his second best year as a pro, earning $2,365,204 with two top 10 finishes including a victory in the Wells Fargo Championship. Thanks “Trooper� Holmes for giving sports fans a positive story.
jk
kj
4HE (IGHLANDS PAR s 4HE 2IVER PAR s $RIVING 2ANGE 0RACTICE 0UTTING 'REEN 0RACTICE #HIPPING 'REEN 0'! 0ROFESSIONALS /UTDOOR 0AVILION -ULLIGAN S &ULL 3ERVICE 2ESTAURANT
4FWJFSWJMMF(PMG DPN
5IF 4FWJFSWJMMF (PMG $MVC 0ME ,OPYWJMMF )JHIXBZ 4FWJFSWJMMF 5/
5 00 /&&
44.
10
! 2/5.$ /& '/,&
6ALID BEFORE !PRIL THROUGH /CTOBER %XP #ANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER DISCOUNTS 3UBJECT TO AVAILABILITY ,IMIT ONE COUPON PER PERSON #ALL FOR OFF SEASON RATE
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
Personett, Littlejohn win Yamaha Pro-Superintendent Tee Times report
Jared Melson and Brian Jorgenson each won a closest to the hole competition for the professionals, pocketing Loren Personett and Mark Littlejohn, of McCabe Field Course, $100. shot 62 to claim a three-shot win in the Yamaha Pro-SuperinRick Tayes and Matt Carson each won the closest to the tendent title. hole for amateurs, taking home $100 in gift cards. Their score was good enough for a three-shot win over two The TPGA would like to extend a thank you to Greg Roteams at the President’s Reserve at The Hermitbison and Brooks West of Yamaha for being age Golf Course. the title sponsor of this great event The Brentwood Country Club team for 16 years running. Without of Johnny Bridgeman and BJ Parker their support, the Pro – Sufinished second in a scorecard perintendent event would playoff with Old Hickory’s Joey not be successful each Hickman-Dan Johnson. year. Another thank Brian Jorgenson and Todd you is given to Alex Parker, of Nashville Golf & Cowdrey & United Athletic Club, captured the Rentals for becoming net division by recording an another sponsor of impressive 62. Jared Melson this great event. and Tyler Tillman of Bear We would also like Trace at Tims Ford, shot 63 to to thank Jim Vernon, finish in second place. Rounding PGA and his entire staff out the top three was the team of at Hermitage Golf Course. Randy Helton and Tiffany Woosley The course was in immacuL-R: Loren Personett, of Riverbend Country Club, who shot 64 late condition for this years’ Brooks West of Yamaha, and won on a scorecard playoff. event. Mark Littlejohn
# 9 Peninsula Green
TEE TIMES
11
Aces Country Hills:
Sid Woodruff, No. 14, 122 yards, 9-iron
McCabe:
Dwayne Lindsey, No. 5 North, 164 yards, 6-iron
Long Hollow:
Brian Smeding, No. 2, 145 yards, 9-iron
Old Hickory:
Don Sherrod, No.15, 136 yards, 7-iron Jimmy Whitman, No. 17, 156 yards, 7-iron Steve Croxall, No. 2, 110 yards, wedge
Old Fort:
Ron Deason, No. 8, 172 yards, 7-iron
Percy Warner:
John Varley, No. 5, 176 yards, 4-iron
Riverside:
Jonathan Taylor, No. 10, 155 yards, 7-iron
Scenic View:
Joe Burt, No. 6,165 yards, 7- wood
Temple Hills:
Walter Richardson, No. 17, 142 yards, 8-iron
Vanderbilt Legends Club:
Bob Hart, No. 16 South, 185 yards, 4-wood Mike Alday, No. 11 South, 168 yards, 7-iron Johnny Brannon, No. 11 South, 153 yards, 7-iron
12
TEE TIMES
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
Golf Course
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
TEE TIMES
13
Guide For The Tennessee Region
DRIVING RANGES Family Golf Center
615-781-8388 • 5204 Blue Hole Rd, Antioch, TN 37013
Harpeth Valley Golf Center
615-646-8858 • 7629 Old Harding Pike, Nashville, TN
Cedar Creek Sports Center
615-754-2744 • 10770 Lebanon Rd, Mt Juliet, TN 37122
Hermitage Golf Learning Center
615-883-5200 • 4000 Andrew Jackson Pkwy, Hermitage, TN 37076
14
November 2014
TEE TIMES
INSPIRING
the reasons why we love the game
www.teetimespaper.com
World Class Golf Training! The Middle Tennessee Golf Performance Center is just 30 minutes away !
UĂŠÂŁnĂŠ ÂœÂ?iĂŠ ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂƒiĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ>ĂŠ
Â…>Â?Â?i˜}ˆ˜}ĂŠ >ĂžÂœĂ•ĂŒ
18-hole golf course designed by Mark McCumber featuring Champion Bermuda greens s Offers the only Hydro-Grid HAR-TRUÂŽ clay tennis courts in the South s Just minutes away from nine world-class casinos s Perfect for group outings and special events s
UĂŠ Ă€i>ĂŒĂŠ*Ă€>VĂŒÂˆViĂŠ Ă€i>ĂŠ UĂŠ Ă•Â?Â?ĂŠ Ă€ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ,>˜}i UĂŠ-Â…ÂœĂ€ĂŒĂŠ >“iĂŠ Ă€i> UĂŠ7>Â?ÂŽiÀÊ Ă€Âˆi˜`Â?Ăž UĂŠ ˜`ÂˆĂ›Âˆ`Ă•>Â?]ĂŠ Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤ]ĂŠEĂŠ Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ iĂƒĂƒÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠ Ă›>ˆÂ?>LÂ?i
Book your tee time today, either by phone or online.
Call 1.866.TEE.OFF1 or visit tunicanational.com /tunicanational
@tunicanational
(615) 274-2301 www.championsrun.biz
The Middle Tennessee Golf Performance Center
Directions: 1-24E, exit 80 (Hwy 99W, New Salem Rd.) Go 12 miles and turn left onto Mt. Pleasant Rd. Course will be one mile on the left.
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
TEE TIMES
15
NWGA celebrates 90th anniversary Tee Times report It’s been a year-long celebration as the Nashville Women’s Golf Association celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2014. The organization celebrated the founding clubs and its purpose for amateur golf. The NWGA was organized in 1925 by five original clubs: Belle Meade, Oriental, Richland, Shelby and Woodmont. Today, 14 clubs with 250 members in the Nashville area comprise the organization. Member clubs are: Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club, Brentwood Country Club, 2014 Officers: President Joanne Walker, 1st Vice President Mary Ruth The Club @ Fairvue Plantation, Five Oaks Geny, 2nd Vice President Rhonda Manous, Treasurer Sharon Aylor, Golf and Country Club, Foxland Harbor and Secretary Marion Howard. Golf and Country Club, The Governor’s Club, Hillwood Country Club, Vanderbilt Legends Club of Tennessee, Nashville Golf and Athletic Club, Old Hickory Country Club, Old Natchez Country Club, Richland Country Club, Temple Hills Country Club and Westhaven Golf Club. The NWGA always has been considered an elite golf group. It is a privilege to be a member of this distinguished organization, and members encourage prospective Past Presidents: Sis Cohn, Beverly White, Gen Williams, Linda McDugald, Kay women golfers to aspire to NWGA Lunsford, Gail Smothers Smith, Mary Kelly, Debbie McDuffie and Joanne Walker membership. Members commit to support the ‘spirit of the game of golf’ by exemplifying the model • To uphold the outstanding image of monetary contributions, 238 volunteer for integrity, knowledge of rules of golf, the women golfers; hours were logged in support of USGA and proper golf etiquette. • To encourage junior golfers. Junior Girls, TSSAA, TGA Junior Amateur, The NWGA Purpose is: Each year, members are given the Bonnie Blackburn Golf Camp, AJGA and • To give qualified women golfers the opportunity to make voluntary First Tee of Nashville in 2014. opportunity of knowing and playing golf contributions to junior amateur golf. NWGA members play each week rotating with other qualified golfers in the area These funds are then distributed to the play at one of the member clubs and to allow them the privilege of playing TGA Junior Girls’ Amateur Championship within the area. Additionally, five at all approved member clubs; and to First Tee of Nashville to support special events were held during their programs and for girls to 2014: attend the TGA Bonnie Blackburn • Opening Day was held at golfing camp. In addition to The Club @ Fairvue Plantation
Shawn Anderson, 2014 Invitational/ Championship Champion
2014 NWGA President Joanne Walker (L) and guest speaker for Opening Day, Maggie Scott, the current most winning women’s amateur golfer in Tennessee.
in April. As is tradition, the Opening and Closing day events are held at the club where the current president is a member. A 90h birthday celebration with 87 members included golf, spring membership meeting, recognition of all living past presidents, and guest speaker Maggie Scott, the current most winning women’s amateur golfer in Tennessee. • Hillwood Country Club hosted the Pro Lady tournament in May where 87 members and 28 pros participated with all 14 clubs represented. • Five Oaks Golf and Country Club hosted the handicap tournament in July, where 64 members from 10 clubs participated. • Foxland Harbor hosted the Invitational/Championship. Shawn Anderson of Temple Hills captured the 36-hole stroke play title in the 37-woman field. • Foxland Harbor hosted Closing Day in October with 44 players and 46 people attending a luncheon and membership meeting and • At the end of October, the NWGA Closing Day was held at Foxland Harbor Golf & Country Club. Sarah LeBrun Ingram, our guest speaker, is a member of the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. “During the span of seven years in the early 1990’s(1990 to 1996), Ingram won more national championships and played on more international teams than any other Tennessee golfer in its hundredyear history.”-as written about Ingram in the Winter 2014 issue of the Tennessee Golf Quarterly, opening paragraph.
Sarah LeBrun Ingram, guest speaker for Closing Day ceremony, is a member of Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. During the span of seven years in the early 1990’s (1990 to 1996), Ingram won more national championships and played on more international teams than any other Tennessee golfer in its hundred-year history.
16
TEE TIMES
November 2014
Know Your Yardages By Tony DeMarco If you do not want to put the time and effort into improving your golf game, then the easiest thing you can do to improve is to learn how far you hit each club in your bag. What I have encountered during my 15year career as a PGA Professional is that the majority of golfers either do not know how far they hit each club or say they hit it farther than they actually do. Your north/south game is more important than your east/west game. For example, if you miss a shot 10 yards right and 20 yards short, you are leaving yourself a 30-yard shot. If you miss a shot 10 yards to the right and are hole high, then you are left with a 10-yard shot. In short, knowing each club’s proper distance will allow your proximity to the hole to be much closer, thus, giving yourself a chance to lower your score. We use Foresight launch monitors in our teaching bays to help find yardages. These monitors measure your carry and total distance. The best method when determining yardages is to hit five balls with each club on the Foresight and take the average of the carry and total distance for each club. Now you know how far you hit each club on average. You can also do the same thing on a driving range or golf course late
in the day when it is relatively slow with a range finder. The process should take about a half hour. A little bit of time for a lot of improvement.
About Tony DeMarco
I am from Erie, Pennsylvania, where I grew up playing this great game. I competed locally and nationally while attending high school there, and worked at a local country club which sparked my interest in becoming a PGA Professional. I majored in Professional Golf Management at Penn State University and played on the golf team. Shortly after graduating in 1998, I obtained my Class A status with the PGA of America while working as an assistant pro. I’ve been an assistant pro at Whitford Country Club and Saucon Valley Country Club in Pennsylvania, and PGA National Resort and Spa in Florida. From there I became an associate professional at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club in Montgomery, Alabama, before becoming the Director of Golf at LaTour Golf Club in Louisiana. A lot of things have changed within the golf industry since I became a PGA Professional that led me to seek different avenues and brought me to golfTec in March 2012. Since then I have taught over 2,500 lessons. The thing I like most about teaching at golfTec is the joy my students get when they see improvement with their golf game. The technology golfTec has really helps speed up the improvement process.
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
Professionals win Tennessee Challenge Cup matches Tee Times report
The Tennessee PGA Professionals reclaimed the Cup, beating the Tennessee Amateur Team 17.5-14.5 recently. The win snapped a four-year winning streak by the amateurs in the event. On the final day, the amateurs quickly closed the gap to one point with a win in the first match before the professionals took control. Notable winners on the professional side were Randy Helton, Audie Johnson, and Richard Rebne, who each went 3-0. Richard Rebne of Council Fire Golf Club was named the Bobby Nichols’ Award Most Valuable Player.
QUALITY SINCE 1971
For the amateur team, Todd Burgan and Nick Garretson also went 3-0 on the weekend. Captain Hunt Gilliland of Council Fire Golf Club said he couldn’t have been more proud of how his team played. He said the Cup matches are the highlight of every player’s year. Assistant Captain Neil Collins said he hopes the Cup Matches continue for years and years, stressing how valuable the relationships that are formed during the Cup competition are to the profession and game as a whole. The Amateur team is selected from the Tennessee Golf Association’s Amateur and Senior Amateur Player of the Year lists.
Looking for relief from high equipment parts prices?
Look to R&R Products. ORDER TODAY • SHIP TODAY
800.528.3446
www.rrproducts.com
www.rrproducts.com
TEE TIMES
17
Standing L-R: Audie Johnson, Mark Houser, Jared Melson, Bobby Bray, Johan Kok, Kelvin Burgin, Josh McWhorter, Jake Reeves, Neil Collins. Sitting L-R: Richard Rebne, Jerry Williams, Hunt Gilliland, Greg Wyatt, Scott Moran, Matt Brock.
The Professional team is selected from the Tennessee Section PGA’s Professional and Senior Professional Player of Year lists, as well as two captain’s picks. Each team of 16 includes six seniors aged 50 and older. Here are the team rosters from this year’s matches: Amateur Team Professional Team Nick Blakely Matthew Brock Todd Burgan Kelvin Burgin Matt Cooper Johan Kok Nick Garretson Scott Masters Jeff Golliher Josh McWhorter Ryan Greer Scott Moran Phillip Lee Jared Melson Josh Nelms Jake Reeves Brandon Rodgers Jerry Williams
Kevin Watford Greg Wyatt Buzz Fly (Sr) Bobby Bray (Sr) Mike Freels (Sr) Randy Helton (Sr) Steve Golliher (Sr) Mark Houser (Sr) Doug Harris (Sr) Audie Johnson (Sr) Mike Poe (Sr) Craig Lee (Sr) Ron Waters (Sr) Richard Rebne (Sr) The first Tennessee Challenge Cup matches were held in the fall of 1968 at Old Hickory Country Club where the Amateurs prevailed. The long-standing competition was the result of the efforts by Old Hickory amateur John Deal, Cookeville amateur Bobby Greenwood, and Cookeville professional Hubie Smith, then president of the Tennessee Section of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA).
18
November 2014
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Christmas Gift Ideas for the Golfer Technology highlights Antigua spring line Antigua’s Spring 2015 Men’s Golf collection is loaded with technology. For example, the exclusive Desert Dry™ technology absorbs and wicks moisture quickly and evenly, achieving the most-efficient evaporation possible to keep golfers comfortable and dry. Desert Dry™ Xtra-Lite combines the Desert Dry™ moisture-wicking feature with specially constructed ultra-light fabrics for maximum wicking performance and optimum comfort. New additions to this category are 100 percent poly fabrics that feel and look like cotton. The garments feel like cozy cotton, but handle perspiration like poly. These new cotton-like poly fabrics open up a whole new world to our consumers, who can have the comfort of
their favorite tee while maintaining the ease of poly’s wear and wicking power. The women’s 2015 line combines trim details and flirty necklines with soft and stretchy fabrics, in multiple textures and contents that give a fresh feel to the product. This includes non-traditional polo styles, such as Envy with its soccer-style collar and neckline and sporty color-blocked silhouette; and Zoom, a sleeveless mini-stripe polo that blends polyester/cotton/spandex jersey The new collection is inspired by the concept of mixing comfort and trend. It features a blend of neon colors with black and white -- in fresh new fashion-forward styles. And it’s all made using Antigua’s Desert Dry and Desert Dry XtraLite technologies that keep golfers dry and comfortable.
Exotics E8 hybrid mirrors fairway woods
The Exotics E8 series has produced the most technologically advanced hybrid that mirrors the design of the company’s fairway woods. The E8 hybrid is stunningly powerful. Available in one clubhead, the E8 is the first adjustable hybrid by Exotics. The E8 hybrid features a premium maraging steel cup face which engineers made thinner to establish even faster ball speeds off the face. The face technology also includes variable face thickness to increase the springlike effect across more areas of the face to enhance distance. Focusing on a faster ball speed and less spin, engineers positioned E8’s center of gravity slightly lower closer to the face. Engineers revised the Power Grid design making it smaller to obtain maximum flexing at impact, increased spring-effect, and more distance. Deep cut away steps positioned back in the heel and toe of the sole make shaping shots off the tee and the turf easier than ever for play-
ers of all abilities. The steps increase MOI and maximize stability on off-center contact while minimizing turf drag. The result is more control and power at impact. The E8 incorporates trajectory control courtesy of an adjustable sole weight. The club comes standard at 9 grams, 3 grams heavier than the driver, dramatically changing the trajectory control. The E8 hybrid utilizes the same weight kit as fairway wood and includes 6-gram, 11-gram, and 14-gram weights, kit-$49.99. Individual weights are available for $19.99. The E8 hybrid look is complete with a Tourinspired matte black finish and reduces glare at address and carries Tour Edge’s lifetime warranty and 30-day play guarantee. The club is now available in stores. The E8 hybrid comes standard with the popular UST Mamiya Recoil shaft and is available in a 2 hybrid (17°), 3 hybrid (19°), 4 hybrid (22°), 5 hybrid (25°), 6 hybrid (28°). (3 and 4 hybrids are available in left hand.) Suggested retail: $199.99. For information, call 1-800-515-3343 or go to www.touredge.com.
Sunice 2015 outerwear In the ladies collections the colours embrace femininity yet have undertones of bolder more unexpected twists of colours. The palette is vibrant and rich. Jeweled tones reflect the Brazilian skylines, neon pinks capture the essence of the Brazilian people and their flamboyancy are complimented with classic whites and grounded to charcoal for a more commercial palette. Deep saturated hues of greens pay homage to the natural resources of the rainforest and all its luster and wonder. The men’s collections also
kept a similar approach to colour. The economy of recent years has influenced colour palettes to be muted and somber – black, tans and greys that seemed like basics until they become a statement of fashion. Instead of the traditional manner of taking black and charcoals and popping them with colour – the company took the colour and popped with the basics. Neon greens, vibrant blues and rich yellows trimmed with colour staples of pure white, grey and blacks reinvents modern golf by adding fashion to the science of the game.
Maui Jim showcases performance sunglasses for golfers Maui Jim swings into the new golf season and the 2015 PGA Merchandise Show with a line of sunglasses that set the pace for the company’s next level of eyewear for athletic performance. All Maui Jim lenses are distinguished from other competing sunglass lenses on the market by the company’s patented PolarizedPlus2® technology that cuts 100 percent of UV rays and 99.9 percent of glare from above, below and behind each lens. Maui Jim is the only company to use three rare earth elements and other treatments to white-balance its lenses, resulting in true color vibrancy. An added benefit of PolarizedPlus2 technology is that it increases definition and depth perception. All Maui Jim sunglasses have been awarded the Seal of Recommendation from The Skin
Cancer Foundation, recognition that the lenses provide safe and effective sun protection and are an important part of an effective defense program against skin cancers of the eye and eyelids. This season, check out a collection of sunglasses that feature the world’s clearest nonglass sunglass lens that has been put into a new frame technology that produces some of the lightest sunglasses in the world. Styles in the PureAir™ series of sunglasses combine Maui Jim’s ultra-light MauiPure™ lens technology with an ultra-light frame technology that makes these sunglasses feel like “pure air.”
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
19
See the holidays like never before with Maui Jim As you step out for a little shopping this season, see the holidays like never before through a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. The company that brings color and clarity to light in more than 110 different styles for all outdoor activities makes for great holiday gifts, especially with the company’s new custom case program that begins on November 15 and runs through December 31. “Many of our new customers discovered Maui Jim because a friend gave them a pair of our sunglasses. After that, they were hooked on the amazing colors and brilliance that are delivered through our lenses,” said Jay Black, vice president of global
marketing. “If you’re going to give the gift of sunglasses, why not make it even more memorable by putting the recipient’s name on a custom case.” Those who purchase Maui Jim sunglasses from authorized retailers or at MauiJim.com before Dec. 31 can upload a copy of their receipt to holiday.mauijim.com. Cases are imprinted with the colorful Maui Jim logo that features Jimmy the Macaw and the recipient’s name; and shipped within 14 days. For information, go to MauiJim.com.
Sun Mountain offers 3 Greens Towel: Great gift and models of top selling car bag not a budget breaker Sun Mountain is expanding its collection of top-selling C-130 golf cart bags to include three different models: a stand bag, a version with a 7-way divided top, and the standard 14-way divided top for 2015. All three models are now available at $239 for the C-130S stand bag and $229 for the C-130 7-way and 14-way. The C-130S stand bag is for cart golfers who like to carry their bag to the practice range and enjoy the convenience of the stand. The C-130 7-way has a seven-way divided top for those who don’t care for the individual club dividers. And, the C-130 14-way is the traditional version of the C-130 for golfers who prefer the individual, club-divided top. All versions of the C-130 are designed to work optimally on a cart. Features in common across all C-130 models include the reverse-orientation top and the three utility handles integrated into the top that offer multiple hand-holds for picking the bag up. Each model also has a cart-strap tunnel which allows the cart strap to pass through the bag and not block access to any of the bag’s pockets or crush any of the pockets’ contents.
One of the hallmarks of the C-130 is pocket space. All models of the C-130 feature: two full-length clothing pockets, two velourlined valuables pockets (including one sized for a rangefinder), a beverage pocket, and several additional pockets for balls and tees and other accessories. C-130 7-way and 14-way also offer an integrated putter well. Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts for 30 years. Sun Mountain’s many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart® golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain’s “Ahead of Time Design” motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment. For the Sun Mountain retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224 or go to www.sunmountain.com.
Buying holiday gifts for golfers can be a difficult task. Golf clubs are expensive and should be custom fit by a professional. Apparel styles tend to be hit or miss, and there is the risk of getting the wrong size. Golf balls are a personal preference, and golf tees just seem like they are not enough. The Greens Towel is a perfect holiday gift because golfers can always use a new microfiber golf towel. Available in nine fashionable colors, shoppers can buy Greens towels in singles or in 3-packs. Every golfer that gets a Greens Towel in their stocking will be happy this holiday season and it will go right on their bag. The Greens Towel is the best $5 golf towel on the market. Cotton golf towels tend to smear dirt and grass. Microfiber Greens Towels quickly remove dirt and grass, cleaning clubs and golf balls faster. Made from super-absorbent microfiber that holds up to seven times its weight in water, Greens Towel removes dirt like a magnet, keeping grooves clean. Players will never miss a shot because of dirty
New Balance Golf adds 574B to lineup Coming off the successful spring introduction of the classic 574 golf shoe, New Balance has added the men’s 574B spikeless golf shoe to its footwear lineup. The new 574B is built on the same New Balance last used in its popular 574 lifestyle running shoe and cleated golf shoe. The 574B is designed for golfers looking for a modern classic style with a spikeless outsole. The 574B features a mesh upper with no-sew Fantom Fit technology for ultralight support and fit, an Ndurance® rubber outsole for maximum durability in high-wear areas, and a REVLite® 10mm drop* midsole for lightweight cushioning and premium responsiveness. Golfers will enjoy the same style, comfort and fit they are accustomed to from New Balance footwear, plus performance technologies designed to help enhance their golf
game. “The 574 golf shoe has been one of our top selling shoes in the current line,” said Bruce Schilling, General Manager of Golf and Tennis, New Balance. “This model has tremendous appeal to the younger golfer who is already wearing our classic suede 574, and the mesh upper and spikeless outsole of the 574B will increase the appeal of the shoe to even more players. We have also expanded our widths to 2E and 4E in select styles based on initial feedback we received on the 574.” 574B specs Men’s Styles: White, Grey/Yellow, Navy/Orange Suggested Retail: $89.95 To learn more about New Balance products, go to www.newbalance.com
golf equipment when they keep a Greens Towel handy during their round. “We understand that many golfers don’t want an expensive logo towel or a souvenir, and that is why our product has been so popular,” said Mark Ziminsky, CEO of Clip Wipes (makers of the Greens Towel). “Greens Towels has found a nice niche as a practical holiday gift for every golfer. Greens Towel is the best selling golf towel under $5 because it cleans fast, clips easy, and costs less.” Perfectly sized with the player in mind, Greens Towels is 15 inches by 15 inches and gives ample space to clean your clubs without dragging on the ground. The strategic sizing also stays handy in your back pocket so it’s there when you need it. Greens Towel comes with a convenient clip to quickly attach to your golf bag and is available in a variety of options. Colors include: Jet Black, Navy Blue, Pine Forest, Awareness Pink, Cardinal Red, Royal Blue, Shamrock Green, Sterling Silver, Orange Crush, and Pure White. A single towel retails at $4.99 plus shipping and handling; a 3-pack comes in under $15 with free shipping. Larger packages are available for tournament gifts and corporate outings. All Greens Towel products can be viewed and purchased at greenstowel.com.
20
TEE TIMES
November 2014
Winter Projects for golf courses Harpeth Hills – Harpeth will be working on some bunker projects as money allows. We will only be putting new sand in one bunker No. 12 front left due to budget constraints. On other bunkers we are going to dig down and try to make sure drain lines are clear to help with water drainage. Harpeth will also work on their no mow areas getting once a year cut done and invasive species of weeds and grasses out. We will also being doing our routine maintenance of equipment. This will entail cleaning and yearly maintenance. We will also be pulling all tee markers and water coolers in and fixing anything that is broken and refurbishing all the tee markers and cooler stands and trash cans to get ready for next year. Percy Warner – Will be trimming trees and taking out dead trees. They will also be working on all of the pull carts there to refurbish them for the next season as well as mowing winter greens and keeping the course playable for the winter. They too will be working on equipment cleaning and maintenance. Also the will be working on tee markers and Water cooler stands to be ready for spring. McCabe - Last winter McCabe got the south nine trees trimmed and completed this year they will work on the middle nine. This is a pretty long process since there are a number of trees and there are days we are unable to work outside in the winter. They will also be looking at bunkers to see if sand depth is good and if needed add sand to make sure the depth is up to our standard and are playable by our patrons. They will also be working on
equipment to clean and prepare it for the next season. Tee markers and water coolers will be reworked to make sure they are ready for another busy golf season. Ted Rhodes – They will be working on invasive trees and weeds around their lakes to ensure that the integrity and beauty of the lakes can be at their best for the spring season. They will also be taking out several trees that are dead and need to be removed before next season. All tee markers, water coolers, and trash cans will be reworked to make them presentable for next year. The irrigation system here has to be winterized and checked on throughout the winter to prevent freeze damage to the system, since Ted Rhodes is still a hydraulic controlled system. Two Rivers- Will be working on a couple of bunkers and trimming trees. The bunker work will be to replace sand and redo drainage that we are finding is sub-standard. Tree trimming is an ongoing project in the winter to make the course playable and to be able to mow. Tree trimming also helps with the health of the trees as we also try to remove dead material that we can reach from the ground. They will also of course be refurbishing tee markers, cooler stands, and trash can stands for the next golfing season. Equipment will be cleaned and taken for yearly service so we will be ready to start the season off next spring.
Shelby - The main project for Shelby will be to clear off the railroad track area by No. 3 green to allow more light to make it to that green. Brush that has grown up has made this an issue. We will also be draining this green in the spring to allow for better turf growth. They will also be making tee markers that are like those at other courses in Metro to help achieve a better look to the course. We are also going to do new signage at Shelby. Vinny Links – Is closed during the winter, but we will be doing some bunker maintenance along with maintenance in the no mow areas and refurbishing tee markers and cooler stands. We will also construct some new cooler stands to get a more uniform appearance. At all courses we will be spraying for winter weeds to control Poa annua and broadleaf weeds that are a problem for spring golf. This will occur in January and February mostly. The staff also uses this time to regularly attend classes on pesticides so that our certifications remain intact and the safe use of pesticides is always a priority for us for our safety and that of our patrons. – Phil Luckett Superintendent of Metro Parks Golf Courses
www.teetimespaper.com
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
www.teetimespaper.com
November 2014
TEE TIMES
Kok, Stevens, Brannon team win E-Z GO Pro-Pro-Pro Scramble Tee Times report NASHVILLE – On a beautiful fall day, the three-man team of Johan Kok, Brad Stevens, and Chase Brannon shot 15under-par 57 to capture the E-Z Pro-ProPro Scramble Championship at Hillwood Country Club. The winners needed every birdie to edge the team of Brooks West, Rafe Corder, and Matt O’Dell by one shot. Despite the star-studded field, the top two teams were the only ones to break 60 at Hillwood after 10 teams accomplished the feat in 2013. Brian Hollingshead, of Hillwood Country
Club, won the 3-hole putting contest with a score of 5 (1-under-par). That earned him a putt from 50 feet for a chance to win $5,000. At first, his putt was right on line but it had a little too much speed and his ball ended up about 18 inches past the cup. Brad Stevens won the closest to the hole contest on hole No. 16 to take home a pair of Oakley sunglasses. Rafe Corder won the closest to the hole competition on No. 5, winning a threemonth lease for an E-Z GO golf car. The Tennessee PGA would like to thank Mike Lathrop and the rest of the Hillwood Country Club staff for hosting the event.
L-R: Brad Stevens, Chase Brannon, Johan Kok, Jeff Abbot - Executive Director, Tennessee PGA
Without their flexibility this event would not have been able to be held with such success.
21
The Tennessee PGA would also like to extend a special thank you to the following sponsors: Jim Newton - E-Z-GO; Tim Gertz – Oakley; Jason Gregory – CaddyX; Peter Bucci – Gentleman Jack; Erik East- Pepsi. The TPGA was able to put on an outstanding event thanks solely to the support of our gracious sponsors. Without the help and loyal support of our sponsors, TPGA events would not be run at the level it is today.
Tips from Johnny
By Johnny Warren • Johnny Warren Golf Academy The Club at Fairvue Plantation • www.jwga.net • 615-206-0813
Fat and thin shots
You have just hit a great drive down the middle of the fairway, only to follow it up with a bladed 7 iron or a fat shot that makes it halfway to the green. Does that sound familiar? Here is a drill I use that will help you make clean and consistent contact with your iron shots. 1. In a very closely mown area, 1 place 2 tees down into the ground about 4 to 5 inches apart. (photo 1) 2. Place the leading edge of the clubhead directly between the 2 tees. (photo 2) 3. Now swing the club all the way to a complete finish. After holding your finish for a moment, you should check and find a very small divot 2 that begins slightly on the “target
side” of the tees (the divot should also point towards your target). (photo 3) If your divot starts before the tees, it is an indication that your clubhead has passed your hands prematurely. Should this happen, make some slow practice swings and stop at impact. If your hands have reached the 2 tees prior to the clubhead reaching the tees, you are in a better impact position. You may occasionally place a ball between the tees while doing this drill, and with daily practice you should be well on your way to more consistent iron 3 shots.
22
November 2014
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Milner: Gone, but not forgotten Tee Times report
and the next year over in Tennessee. With the fall foliage bursting and the mountains as a
The Casey-Milner Mountain Golf Tournament started back in 1995 as a fun tournament bringing together family and friends. Players are couples and single players alike, both men and women. Over the years, new golfers joined the ranks and now number about 32 players... The players are usually half from North Carolina and the other ers are from Tennessee. The Frankie Milner and Bob Fish tournament lost one of its founders this year with the backdrop, it’s a tourpassing of Frankie Milner but her nament those invited rarely spirit was still evident during the miss. competition and the social activities Honoring Milner, an avid she loved. Fairfield Glade was the golfer who usually played site of this year’s tournament. four or five times each Milner and deceased husband, Ger- week, was a no-brainer. She ald and her daughter Kathy and son- began playing around age in-law Bo Casey started the invita- 50 and never slowed down. tion-only tournament wanting to She played every weekend share mountain golf, alternating golf with hubby Gerald until courses, one year in North Carolina his passing 16 years ago.
Frankie was the mother of Debbie, Cindy, Kathy, and Dedy and grandmother to 15 grandkids. She started the Hilly Dilly group that played 9 holes every Thursday at 5:00 P.M. and followed this with dinner. These 16 folks were just a few that enjoyed knowing and playing with Frankie for years. She played with close friend Bob Fisher for the past 14 years. Husband
Phillip Crouch, Frankie Milner, and Joe Hall
Standing: Joyce Lowery Carol Hall, and Kathy Cas, Sandra Crouch, ey. Sitt Conard and Frankie Mil ing: Fran ner
stories were shared. The next day, a prayer was said and a ceremonial first tee shot was launched in her honor. Casey said his mother-in-law embodied everything that is good about golf. “Frankie is what is best about the game of golf,” he said. “She was not
Sapphire Mountain Country Club in Cashiers, N.C was our destination a few years back. (front row, l-r.) Frankie Milner, and Bob Fisher 2nd.row: Phillip Crouch, Christian Casey, Kathy Littlejohn, Debbie McKinney, and Carol Hamlett, Karen Payne, and Trent Payne. 3rd.row: Kyle Seeley Kathy Casey, Bo Casey, Dan McKinney, Jerry Hamlett, Edrie Strader, Aubrey Strader, Joe Hall, and Sandra Crouch.
Gerald and then Bob, both very good golfers because her instructors. “She probably loved the game more than anyone I have ever known,” said Casey, a middle Tennessee PGA professional. “She was president of her ladies group at her course and played every weekend.” Milner might be gone, but she definitely was not forgotten at this year’s tournament. Competitors watched a 15-minute video tribute to her and
a great player but a good player who loved the game. She enjoyed the competition and was the perfect representative for the game of golf. “I always felt if the PGA would have spent a day with her you would have seen commercials with Frankie representing senior golf and the great joy you receive through this great game. Her spirit will always be a huge part of our tournament as it was this year.”
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
Tee Up Your Next Event With Us
Call today to learn more.
615-458-6800
Serene Surroundings | Flexible Function Space for up to 500 Award-Winning Catering | Complimentary Parking Social Events • Weddings • Corporate Events • Retreats & Team Building • Golf Outings Gaylord Springs Golf Links | 18 Springhouse Lane, Nashville, TN 37214
GaylordSprings.com
TEE TIMES
23
24
TEE TIMES
November 2014
www.teetimespaper.com
ROAD TRIP No. 18
ÌkÌ yÌÏÌA Ìå ØÌ YA ÌÄ A kÌAÌ À ÌAΰ When it comes to championship public golf, there’s no better destination than Alabama, where we’re proud to claim three of America’s 50 Toughest Courses as selected by Golf Digest. For starters, there are the 468 holes along the world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Stretching from the mountains in the north to the Gulf Coast in the south, these 26 courses will test your golfing skills as well as your intestinal fortitude. Then there are the many other impressive courses scattered across the state, designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jerry Pate. Each with its own set of challenges, each with its own set of rewards. And each along an epic road trip to the state of Alabama.
Download Alabama Road Trips from your app store
M or e in fo at
ala ba ma .tr av el/ go lf