MSGA Mag Apr May17

April-MAY 2017 Issue # 33

Q&A

Bring in Spring with Our

Top Gear Choices

with

C ore y

Maryland State Golf Association

Consuegra

Junior Grant Program

DESTINATION REPORT

SPECIAL

RULES REVISITED

MODERNIZATION

OF THE RULES OF GOLF

DESTINATION REPORT

2017

Crown Jewel of

Costa Rica

state team bracket state team matches

DESTINATION REPORT

Hilton Head

Golf Island’s

Many Gems

in partnership with

&

Executive Director’s Welcome Golf Etiquette

For most, golf is a game that is to be enjoyed. In order for the game to be enjoyable and relaxing golfers need to be aware of the rules governing the behavior of oneself while playing any course. Basically etiquette is respecting your fellow golfers you are playing with and those who are following you. Following are some of the etiquette rules golfers should be familiar with to maximize everyone’s enjoyment of a great game.

All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrating sportsmanship and courtesy at all times. In addition to personal behavior, etiquette extends to proper care of the golf course.

Care of Course: Bunkers - Before leaving a bunker, players should rake holes and footprints made by them and any others that are close by.

Repair of Divots - Players should repair divot holes made by them.

On the Green - Golfers should be aware of the position of all golf balls on the green so that you make sure not to walk on an area of grass that a fellow golfer’s ball will be travelling. Also make sure to repair all pitch marks made from balls landing on the green.

Golf Carts - Drive carts with care and keep well away from tees and greens and stay on cart paths if possible and convenient. Obey course cart rules such as 90 degree rule or cart path only. Do not make sharp turns that may damage the grass and stay out of bunkers.

Speed of play: A golfer should always be ready to play their shot when is deemed to be their turn. Without disrupting fellow players, you should move to the location of your ball as soon as possible, do not wait for others to hit and then decide to get to your ball. Once you have located your ball and are waiting for others to hit you should be thinking about your shot including club selection, target, wind etc.

Miscellaneous: Never hit when there is a chance you might be able to reach the group in front of you, and any chance of hitting a player. Yell “fore” immediately and apologize.

Displays of frustration are one thing, but outburst of temper are quite another. Yelling, screaming and throwing are unacceptable.

Play by the Rules, exhibit good etiquette, have fun and enjoy the great game of golf.

William K. Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

MSGA Hole in One Club

>> JOIN TODAY << Click here for the MSGA Hole-In-One Application

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MSGA Hole-In-One Club!

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Contents

Executive Director’s Welcome

03

William K. Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association

MSGA

14

A - Team Championship State Bracket

MSGA

16

2017 State Team Matches

Five Questions with steve mona

18

Clemmie Perry, Founder & Director, Women of Color Golf (WOCG) & Girls On the Green Tee (GOTG-T)

Destination report

20

Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

Destination report

28

Hilton Head Golf Island’s Many Gems

Q & A with

34

Corey Consuegra

MSGA

38

Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices

MSGA

44

Junior Grant Program

RULES REVISITED

46

Modernization Of The Rules Of Golf

State news

58

8 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

MARYLAND STATE

Emich House 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite

MEN’S DIVISION 2017 Men’s Championships Tournament

Date

Site

Team Matches

---

[April 1] April 8, 9, 15, 22, 23 & 29

---

Various Clubs

Four-Ball

---

Thursday, May 4

---

CC of Maryland

Am/Open Qualifiers

---

Tuesday, May 2

---

Mountain Branch

Monday, May 8

---

Worthington Manor

Thursday, May 18

---

Woodmore

Wednesday, May 24

---

Queenstown Harbor

Senior Four-Ball

---

Monday, May 22

---

Green Spring

Amateur

---

Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11

---

Columbia

Junior

---

Monday-Tuesday, June 26-27

---

Norbeck

Maryland Open

---

Monday, July 10-12

---

Woodholme

Pro-Am

---

Monday, July 17

---

Montgomery

Father-Son

---

Thursday, July 20

---

Cattail Creek

Amateur Public Links

---

Wednesday, July 26

---

Clustered Spires

Mid-Amateur

---

Monday-Tuesday, August 7-8

---

Chartwell

BW Matches

---

Saturday, August 19

---

Rolling Road

Senior Amateur

---

Tuesday-Wednesday, September 12-13

---

Worthington Manor

Senior Team Matches

---

September 9, 10, 16, 17 & 23

---

Various Clubs

Past Presidents

---

Wednesday, September 27

---

Green Spring

Senior Team Challenge

---

Thursday, October 12

---

Baltimore CC

Senior Open

---

Tuesday-Wednesday, October 10-11

---

Chevy Chase

Mid-Atlantic Jr Invitational

---

Saturday-Sunday, October 21-22

---

Suburban

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

9 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

GOLF ASSOCIATION

e 145, Baltimore, MD 21208, www.msga.org

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

7 Schedule of Events

USGA Qualifiers Tournament

Date

Site

US Open Local

---

Monday, May 15

---

Hillendale CC

US Amateur

---

Monday, July 24

---

Argyle CC

US Senior Amateur

---

Monday, July 31

---

Hobbitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Glen

US Four-Ball (for 2018)

---

Monday, October 16

---

CC of Woodmore

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

10 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

MARYLAND STATE

Emich House 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite

MEN’S DIVISION 2017 SCHE Men’s One-Day Tournament

Date

Site

Four-Ball Stableford

---

Friday, April 7

---

Eagle’s Nest CC

Four-Ball Stroke Play

---

Tuesday, April 25

---

Woodholme CC

Chapman/Pinehurst

---

Wednesday, May 31

---

Crofton CC

Four-Ball Stroke Play

---

Wednesday, June 28

---

Turf Valley

Four-Ball Stableford

---

Monday, August 14

---

Montgomery CC

Four-Ball Stroke Play

---

Friday, September 8

---

Hillendale CC

Four-Ball Stroke Play

---

Thursday, October 19

---

Suburban Club

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

11 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

GOLF ASSOCIATION

e 145, Baltimore, MD 21208, www.msga.org

EDULE OF ONE-DAY EVENTS

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

12 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

MARYLAND STATE

Emich House 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite

woMEN’S DIVISION 201

Women’s Championships Tournament

Date

Site

Team Championship

---

May 6 - 13 - 20 - 21

---

Various

Mid-Amateur Championship

---

June 9

---

Suburban Club

Junior Championship

---

June 20-21

---

Talbot CC

Junior Poindexter Cup

---

June 23-25

---

Winchester CC (VA)

Amateur Championship

---

July 18-21

---

Hillendale CC

4 Lady Invitational

---

To be determined…

---

To be determined…

Junior Mid-Atlantic Challenge

---

July 29-30

---

Scotch Hall Preserve (NC)

Two Woman Team Championship

---

July 31

---

Crofton CC

Two-Woman Team Mid-Handicap Championship

---

July 31

---

Crofton CC

Mixed Two-Ball Championship

---

August 17

---

Bulle Rock GC

Senior Championship

---

September 11-12

---

Argyle Country CC

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

13 MSGA 2017 Schedule of Events

GOLF ASSOCIATION

e 145, Baltimore, MD 21208, www.msga.org

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

17 Schedule of Events

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

14 MSGA Meet our Boatwright Intern – Kristie Langford

Meet our

Boatwright Intern –

Kristie Langford MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

15 MSGA Meet our Boatwright Intern – Kristie Langford

Hello! My name is Kristie Langford and I am the 2017 Boatwright Intern for the MSGA. I am from a small town called Port Hope in Ontario, Canada, and moved to Maryland for my undergraduate and graduate education five years ago. I attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County for my undergrad with a degree in Biology and a minor in Psychology. At UMBC I was also on the NCAA Division I Swim Team, where I was captain both my Junior and Senior years during which we also won consecutive conference championships.

Swimming was my main focus through most of high school and college but now that I have closed that chapter I have been focusing more on my golf game! I currently am finishing my Masters in Sport Management from Mount St. Mary’s University, and I am also one of the assistant swim coaches for the school’s swim team. I have two brothers, one older and one younger, and three nieces and one nephew. Both of my brothers and my parents play golf as well as various other sports. We are very much a golfing family and center our vacations around the game.

How did you hear about the internship with the MSGA? My master’s program requires internship credits so I actually received an email from my program director with information regarding this internship and felt it was something I would be very interested in so I read more about it on the website and applied!

Why were you interested in an internship with the MSGA? My family has always been, to put it lightly, obsessed with golf, and being that I was always stuck in the pool I never got to fully enjoy it like they did. So now that I have the opportunity to get to know the game more, I have really fallen in love with it and wanted to learn as much as possible. My career goal is also to work in sports administration, either with the NCAA or other sports associations, so I felt this internship would be great first step to gaining some hands on experience.

What is your favorite golf course in the area?

I haven’t actually had the opportunity to play many courses in the area yet, given that I grew up in Canada, but I am excited to start adding more of them to my list! I recently played some courses in the Pinehurst area with my family and have to say they are at the top of my alltime list.

When did you start playing golf? Who got you into the game?

I learned how to golf at around age 14 but didn’t really start playing until last year. My parents were the first ones to get me into the game, mainly my dad, and he’s been a great coach. Lately my brother, Will, has been the biggest influence on my golf game as he is very good and competed in Canada and also played college golf for Berry College for a year.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I love to hike mountains. At least once a year my mom and I do a mountain trek either in New Hampshire in the White Mountains or in Lake Placid, NY. I also love to read and travel. I recently also started doing CrossFit and have found that I really enjoy it and the community of people I have met.

What is a fun fact we don’t know about you?

A fun fact is that I self-taught myself how to surf this past summer in the Pacific Ocean off Vancouver Island. It was extremely difficult and I spent 4 hours in the water only to stand up maybe 5 times. I have also been to South Africa and Botswana, Africa on a volunteer trip and hope to go back in the near future.

About the USGA Boatwright Internship: In 1991, the USGA established the P.J. Boatwright Internship program, which is designed to give experience to individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in golf administration. The internship also assists state and regional golf associations in the promotion of amateur golf. The MSGA is granted a seven month intern, who will work from April through November.

The MSGA’s intern helps conduct tournaments, membership services, handicapping, course rating, website administration and other activities to support golf in Maryland.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

16 MSGA OFFER Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA Partnership

MSGA OFFER

Patron Member Program History

Victory Golf Pass Partnership

I

n 2006, the MSGA started its Patron Member Program, as a way to reach more amateur golfers and provide opportunities to play many different Maryland golf courses. In the first year, over 60 Maryland courses offered privileges for the program-it was an immediate success, with over 1,000 players joining the program in the first year! The proceeds from the program were designated to support junior golf and scholarships.

Traditionally Patron Member clubs have offered MSGA Patron Members an opportunity to play their course for a special rate, often $25 or less. Offers vary by day of week, time of day, etc., and some clubs offer multiple specials. Barbin recommends that participating clubs create an off-season rate or promotion, because golf is a year round sport. He also suggests that courses offer additional deals and savings for Military (Hero), Senior, and Junior golfers.

Since then, the program has evolved and partnerships were formed. Initially the Middle Atlantic PGA endorsed the program. Then the Maryland Golf Course Owners Association got on board. Over the years the MSGA sought to add value by partnering with neighboring organizations, which brought partnerships with the Delaware State Golf Association, the Pennsylvania Golf Course Owners Association and the Ohio Golf Course Owners Association.

The MSGA recently hired its former P.J. Boatwright, Jr. intern, James Hewatt, as its Director of Tournaments and Member Services. Hewatt will assume management of the Patron Program beginning in 2017,and David Norman will step down from his role as theprogram’s longtime coordinator. “David helped the MSGA establish a patron member program that has improvedthe game in Maryland for golfers and participating clubs,” Hewatt remarked. “I look forward to building upon his efforts and will strive to expand the number of golfers throughout our state that this program reaches.”

The MSGA announced its newest partnership with the Victory Golf Pass in 2013. The Victory Golf Pass was created by PGA Professional Andy Barbin, owner of Chesapeake Bay Golf Club in Northeast, Maryland.

Barbin actually started his program in the same year as the MSGA program, and by 2012 he had recruited over 300 participating courses in MD, VA, DC, DE, PA and NJ. Barbin’s program also supported a charitable cause for Crohn’s Disease. As a golf course owner and PGA professional, Barbin understood that programs like these have the potential to grow incremental revenue for courses whileattracting new players.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

The MSGA thanks David Norman andhis association management firm, Norman & Associates,for their outstanding guidance of this program over the past twelve years. Hewatt will continue to work with Barbin to recruit the clubs and keep excellent value for golfers, while bringing business to clubs in Maryland.

Please track the program in Maryland State Golf magazine and on the MSGA website, www.msga.org.

Thanks go to the clubs that support the program and make it a big winner for junior golf and charity!

2017

Patron Member program Patron: Victory $55, eClub $95 (shipping $2.53) Patron Couple: Victory $95, eClub $160 (shipping $3.44) Junior/Student: Victory $30, eClub $40 (shipping incl.)

Receive a 2017 Victory Golf Pass entitling you to special deals at over 320 of the finest golf facilities in the region. The membership includes: MSGA Patron Member bag tag; Victory Golf Pass with information on all the courses; and subscription to the Maryland State Golf digital magazine.

Patron Couples receive an additional Victory Golf Pass and bag tag. Junior Members are up to age 18, and under age 17 must be accompanied by an adult when using the Victory Pass.

Receive all Patron Member privileges, plus special certificates to play Musket Ridge, Lake Presidential, GlenRiddle, P.B. Dye, Bear Trap Dunes, and White Clay Creek in Wilmington, DE. All Silver Members will also receive a special Silver Member gift, signifying your commitment to supporting golf in Maryland. Silver Couples receive additional certificates, plus an additional bag tag and Victory Golf Pass.

Gold: $500, includes eClub* (shipping incl.)

Receive all of the Patron and Silver Member privileges, plus three additional Victory Golf Passes (four in all), which make great gifts or entertainment for friends and clients. Also included are special certificates to play four great courses: Bulle Rock, Lake Presidential, Queenstown Harbor River Course, and Bayside Resort. Gold Members also receive a special Gold Member gift and special recognition on the MSGA web site.

Register Today

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

Silver: Victory $150, eClub $190 (shipping incl.)

Silver Couple: Victory $200, eClub $260 (shipping incl.)

*the eClub membership includes USGA Handicap service and tournament eligibility for MSGA tournaments and play days.

18 Five Questions Clemmie Perry

Five Questions with steve mona

What led you down the path to take an interest in golf?

In 2012, I was working for a Fortune 500 Aerospace and Defense company and my Corporate Executive position was downsized. Later that year, my youngest brother located a set of used golfs for me to use. Another brother gifted a golf lesson and I was hooked and driven to share the experience with other women of color to learn the game of golf. I also gained interest in the vast business opportunities and a new network of people in the golf community to share common goals and interests. In 2014, I realized there were not many women or girls of color on the golf course. At that time, I decided to use my severance package to start Women of Color Golf (WOCG) and Girls On the Green Tee (GOTGT) programs, to help grow the game in my community for a diverse population of women or girls.

Clemmie Perry 1.

You have a 501c3 organization, Women of Color Golf (WOCG) and Girls on the Green Tee (GOTGT).

Could you explain what it is, what you do and what do you hope to achieve?

Women of Color Golf (WOCG) and Girls on the Green Tee (GOTGT) programs were created as a pathway for women and girls of color to gain accessibility and exposure to learn the game of golf.

Our goal is to offer an affordable outlet to participate in the game through organized golf clinics, networking and social media outlets.

WOCG and GOTGT programs hope to achieve and develop a platform for women and girls of all colors to access and find like-minded individuals to enjoy the game of golf.

Ours Girls On the Green Tee (GOTGT) is designed to encourage and promote girls ages seven through14, in disadvantaged situations to learn and play the sport of golf and to integrate mentors and coaches that will focus on initiatives to prepare girls to live and work in a diverse, rapidly changing world. By exposing these young girls to golf and various golf facilities, they will have an opportunity to broaden their view of the world.

In only two years, WOCG and GOTGT programs have trained over 300 women and girls on the basic fundamentals of golf in the Tampa and St. Petersburg, Fla. community.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

2.

19 Five Questions Clemmie Perry

3.

Golf was never considered a sport amongst African Americans many years ago, but it seems the tide has turned vastly, why do you think that is?

There are many African American golf pioneers that have a historical importance and numerous contributions to the expansion and development of golf in the United States. To name just a few, they include African American golfers such as William “Bill” Powell, Jim Thorpe, Calvin Peete, Lee Elder, Charlie Sifford, Jim Dent, Renee Powell and countless others. These individuals positively impacted the golf community despite the pervasive prejudice and racism of the Jim Crow era.

When Tiger Woods won the Masters and other professional golfers of color began to receive coverage on more prominent network TV channels, it made the game more appealing to African Americans.

Nearly two decades after Tiger Woods’ arrival, golf still struggles to attract minorities.

4.

How important is it to have young people learn the game and principles of golf?

Golf provides the opportunity for young people to learn life skills, such as practice, respect, perseverance and honesty, preparing them to meet the challenges of today’s world with confidence.

5.

WOCG and GOTGT programs were recently recognized by the U.S. White House Champions for Change. Can you tell us about this prestigious recognition?

Through the initiative on “Advancing Equity for Women and Girls of Color,” The White House Council on Women and Girls identified key obstacles facing marginalized girls and honored those who worked to ensure that marginalized girls reach a reasonable level of access and success. The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities.

The event was attended by a host of powerful African-American female leaders and provided a platform for the ten honorees to discuss the continued role of young black girls in creating the very networks and outreach needed within the communities they live in.

We are extremely honored and proud to have received such a distinguished award from former President Barack Obama, for our efforts to make golf more inclusive and diverse for women and girls of color.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

20 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

DESTINATION REPORT

Crown Jewel of

Costa Rica MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

21 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

22 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

Mental golf gurus have a saying during rough or tense situations –

“Go to your happy place.”

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

23 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

24 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

This golf season, why not head to a happy place in what many refer to as the happiest country on Earth.

That would be the Reserva Conchal Beach Resort Golf and Spa, a luxury resort situated on Costa Rica’s sparkling northwestern Pacific coast. Situated between white sand beaches and a “dry” tropical forest, Reserva Conchal is a prominent golf development in the country’s Guanacaste region.

Set within the resort’s vast 2,300 acres is a five-star all-inclusive Westin Golf Resort & Spa, featuring 60,000-square-foot Reserva Conchal Beach Club. Its highlights include an extensive swimming pavilion, modern workout facilities, fine dining and an exquisite spa.But the crown jewel of Reserva Conchal is its championship golf course.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the par-71 layoutstretches to more than 7,000 yards.Jones II smartly routed the course between the azure Pacific waters and lush greens of the neighboring tropical forest. The returning nines feature amazing ocean vistas with unforgettable holes meandering through tropical lakes, rugged ravines and ample elevation changes.

Historically, no other golf course in Costa Rica rivals Reserva Conchal. In 2008, it hosted theregion’s first international professional event, the Costa Rica TLA Masters. Notable professional golfers Jesper Parnevik, David Leadbetter and Hale Irwin have notched rounds here, and that list grewsubstantially in May. That’s when Reserva Conchal hosted the PGA TOUR Latinoamerica Essential Costa Rica Classic. The inaugural tournament – sponsored by the Costa Rica Tourism Institute – was the first-ever PGA TOUR event in Costa Rica, and the field consisted of 144 professional golfers from more than 25 countries.

Consistently ranked among the top-30 best in the Caribbean and Mexico, Reserva Conchal was the first course in Costa Rica bestowed certification by Audubon International.But it’s not just the golf course that gets acclaim – its world-class practice facility and learning center offersfour green complexes, bunkers, chipping and approach areas,and an expansive practice tee.

Single- and multi-day golf clinics are offered, including the PGA TOUR Academyfeaturing certified instructors from famed TPC Sawgrass.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

25 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

26 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

27 DESTINATION REPORT Crown Jewel of Costa Rica

Golf reigns supreme at Reserva Conchal, but other outdoor activities rank a close second when it comes to enjoyment. Relaxing by the beach is a must, and there’s no better place to soak in the rays than at the resort’s beach club. The adventurous side of you can also explore Reserva Conchal’s 96-acre wildlife refuge, which is home to more than 30 species of birds, 12 species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and native plants and flora.

At Reserva Conchal, the letter “W” is synonymous with luxurious accommodations. The all-inclusive Westin Golf Resort and Spa, Playa Conchal sits on a pristine stretch of white sand and provides the ultimate in elegance – with personal concierge services at the Royal Beach Club and sumptuous amenities standard of the Westin brand. Additional five-star touches found at the resort include 10 on-site restaurants and bars, and a well-appointed spa that offers an array of services and treatments.

In early 2019, the W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal will open and place this part of Costa Rica among the elitein world-class destinations. The W will offer 151 guestrooms, and contemporary luxury touches and amenities such as a W Living Room lifestyle lounge, specialty restaurants, meeting space, a destination bar and lounge, an infinity edge pool and spa.

For larger groups or those looking to stay in paradise a while, Reserva Conchal has premium one-, two- and three-bedroom private residences, and a four-bedroom penthouse that overlooks the Pacific.

This summer might be the best time to make Reserva Conchal your happy place. Starting at $379 per person, per night (four-night minimum), the Golf Escape package includes luxurious accommodations at the Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal, and a round of golf on either Reserva Conchal, Hacienda Pinilla or the Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo. Golf cart, driving range access and bottled water is included.

Transportation to golf courses and golf clubs are not included, and other restrictions may apply.

The offer expires November 30, and guests must mention PGAPROM promotion code when booking online at www.westinplayaconchal.com or by calling 855-851-5000. For more information about Reserva Conchal, visit www.reservaconchal.com.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

28 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Many Gems

Photo courtesy of The Sea Pines Resort / Rob Tipton.

Heron Point, hole # 4 MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

29 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Island’s Many Gems

DESTINATION REPORT

Hilton Head

Golf Island’s

Many Gems All eyes were on “Golf Island” in April as the PGA TOUR came to Hilton Head. The RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing – a Lowcountry tradition and South Carolina’s only PGA TOUR event – was played on the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links at The Sea Pines Resort on April 13 – 16.

Both on- and off-island layouts are experiencing some of the best course conditions in years.

Coupled with temperatures in the 70s and more direct flights than ever into Savannah / Hilton Head International Airport, spring is the perfect time to visit Golf Island. Keep reading to learn about some of the golf gems in Hilton Head and the surrounding area.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

30 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Island’s Many Gems

On-Island Gems Harbour Town Golf Links, designed by the legendary Pete Dye, is a favorite venue among TOUR players, and anchors a stable of championship-caliber tracks across Hilton Head Island. Here’s a sampling of some of the destination’s most challenging and player-friendly layouts appealing to a wide swath of players.

Also designed by Dye, Heron Point was named South Carolina’s 2015 Golf Course of the Year. Dye supervised recent enhancements including softening green surrounds and contours, enlarging several putting surfaces and adding numerous ornamental landscape beds. Additionally, the putting surfaces were transitioned to Tif-Eagle Bermuda.

Opened in October 2016, Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III is a complete reconstruction of the historic Ocean Course, Hilton Head Island’s first course. The new layout features entirely rebuilt holes with modern shot values and scenic corridors.

The pronounced seaside ambience and Lowcountry feel is accented by coquina shells and seaside grass.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort also showcases a trio of tournament-tier golf courses, designed by three legendary architects: Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio and Arthur Hills.

Switch things up by renting a Golf Bike instead of a cart for your round.

The Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes sports one of only two oceanfront holes on Hilton Head Island. It is widely renowned for its open, inviting layout and challenging yet fair play. It is the most open of the three and breezes roll off the Atlantic Ocean to constantly affect play. Ranked one of Golfweek’s “Best Resort Courses” for 2017, the Jones Course appeals to novices and experienced players alike.

Hilton Head Island’s only public par-70 design, the George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes has just two par 5s, both offering a good opportunities to score. The layout balances open, tree-lined fairways on the front nine with tighter and more severe routing on the back nine. With new, state-of-theart Diamond Zoysia greens, the Fazio Course delivers a peak golf experience.

Measuring 6,651 yards from the tips, the Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Dunes places a premium on accuracy and precision rather than distance. With an extensive network of lagoons winding through 10 different holes, continuous lines of dunes and thick stands of palmettos, the Hills Course seamlessly integrates the area’s natural beauty into its challenging design.

Photo courtesy of The Sea Pines Resort / Rob Tipton.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

31 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Many Gems

Atlantic Dunes, hole # 15 APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

32 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Many Gems

Palmetto Dunes - Robert Trent Jones Course MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

33 DESTINATION REPORT Hilton Head Golf Island’s Many Gems

Off-Island Gems Just over the bridge from Hilton Head Island, Old South Golf Links showcases the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. At this local favorite, golfers play beneath towering live oaks and alongside the Intracoastal marshes of Mackays Creek. Three holes end at picturesque island-like greens. Water and wetland pose a threat on all but three holes. Recognized by Golf Digest as one of the “Top 10 New Public Courses” of 1992, Old South remains one of the area’s finest layouts 25 years later.

The Pete Dye Signature Golf Course at Hampton Hall is a classic links style with wide fairways and landing areas, unobstructed green approaches and a safe route on every hole. Playing at 7,503 yards from the tips, length is an important factor. Nestled within a private golf community, the course does allow limited outside play. Golfers may call the pro shop up to one week in advance to schedule a tee time.

Day Tripper Less than an hour north of Hilton Head Island, visitors can combine American military history with a round of golf.

Situated within Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, The Legends Golf Course at Parris Island features beautiful marsh views and a challenging – and unique – golf experience.

Originally designed by Fred Findley and George Cobb in the 1940s, the par-72 course was redesigned by Clyde Johnston in 2000. Last September it became the first military golf course in the world to earn the Golf Environment Organization’s certification. Parris Island has been training Marines since 1915.

Before or after a round of golf, visitors can explore the depot’s many monuments, statues and memorials commemorating generations of Marines.

A designated Wildlife Sanctuary, Fripp Island’s 3000 acres of natural beauty are home to over 175 species of birds as well as raccoons, gators and an abundance of deer. Its two courses – Ocean Point and Ocean Creek – have at least one thing in common: spectacular scenery. A George Cobb design, Ocean Point boasts dramatic views of the ocean or inlet on 10 of its 18 holes. Both the front and back nine finish against a stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The other layout, Ocean Creek, was Davis Love III’s first signature course. Its magnificent panoramic views of the Great Salt marsh and freshwater lakes are ideal for viewing some of the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sanctuary Golf Club at Cat Island is a player-friendly layout that rewards good shots. Although a selection of elevated greens appear daunting, overall the course is a fair test. Located on a 400+ acre barrier island, Sanctuary Golf Club is Lowcountry golf at its best with statuesque oak trees draped in Spanish moss and splendid views of Port Royal Sound throughout.

Grab your clubs and journey to Hilton Head Golf Island. Natural beauty, outstanding golf and a relaxing island vibe await your arrival.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

34 Q&A Corey Consuegra

Q&A with

C ore y

Consuegra

Corey Consuegra is the Senior Director of Marketing with Bridgestone Golf. A native of Damascus and graduate of Damascus High School, Consuegra played a pivotal role in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent signing of 14-time major championship winner Tiger Woods. The legendary golfer is now exclusively playing Bridgestone golf balls.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

35 Q&A Corey Consuegra

for years, that our balls will outperform anything else out there. For Tiger this was far from just an endorsement deal, he made it very clear that he was not coming back to play, but coming back to win. To that end, he selected the best equipment for every facet of his game to achieve those results.

Q: What would you say most amateurs should consider when shopping for a new ball?

A: As proud as we are to have Tiger on the Bridgestone team, the reality is that most amateur players have no business playing the same model he does, the B330-S. There is a myth that the equipment used on the PGA Tour is the best available and thus it has been adopted by players of all skill levels. That is demonstrably untrue and we’ve proven it over-and-over through our focus on custom ball fitting. Tour balls are great for elite level golfers, but not for the rest of us. While Titleist’s Pro V1 is a very popular line, it is without question hurting more players than it helps. So, for anyone looking to get a fitting, it is as easy as downloading our new BFIT App and following the onscreen instructions.

It is an incredible breakthrough for us and within a few minutes any player in the world can determine the absolute best Bridgestone Golf ball for their unique games.

Q: How did the Tiger Woods signing come to pass?

A: Back in August when it was made public that NIKE was vacating the golf ball market we got a call from Tiger’s team with a request to try some Bridgestone models. He ended up testing our balls against every other competitor and without any additional influence from our teamhe decided the Tour B330-S was the best fit for his game. It’s amazing, because the ball completely spoke for itself and the result is that we landed arguably the greatest player in the history of the sport. He could have picked anything and he chose Bridgestone.

Q: What impact has it had on the Bridgestone brand?

A: It was a very fun announcement to make! The acceleration in traffic to our website around Tiger putting the B330-S in play was incredible. He adds instant credibility and validation to what we’ve known APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

36 Q&A Corey Consuegra

Q: How does Bridgestone’s research and development process differ from other brands?

A: Over the past decade we have become the industry leader in ball fittings. Our team has conducted more than two million in-person and online fittings and we use the data from these sessions to inform our research and development efforts. Other brands essentially design balls for Tour players and the rest of their lines just trickle down from there. We actually look at what players of different skill levels need and engineer balls specifically to fit those needs. A great example is our e6 SOFT and e6 SPEED lines. Based on the all the data we’ve recorded, more than 80% of all golfers would benefit from using one of these two balls. If you’re MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

someone whose goal is to break 80 or 90, most likely the e6 will do wonders for your game.

Q: Outside the golf ball category, what else is new for Bridgestone this year?

A: Our clubs and accessories lines are absolutely second-to-none. In May, the new Tour B Series of drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons will be officially available, which are extremely high-end, Japanese crafted products. We think they’ll make a major impact on the premium club market and you’ll see them being used by our guys on the PGA Tour. With Tour B, the goal was to cater to the discerning player who wants the absolute highest quality available. We also have the very popular JGR lines, which cater to a wider variety and have been immensely well received.

This is what I love to do. And if pressure is something that comes with playing good golf, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something a professional golfer has to handle.

Inbee Park

If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com

38 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices

MSGA

Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices

Spring is the time for new gear and we’ve picked some of the best to showcase here.

Take advantage of your annual spring cleaning and stock up on some essentials (and extras!) aimed at improving your game before you hit the course this season. From innovative skill analysis to the fastest folding push cart on the market, here’s an exciting preview of this spring’s latest and greatest golf gear guaranteed to grow your blooming collection of gadgets, equipment, accessories and more.

ARCCOS 360 ArccosGolf.com MSRP - System: $249.99 (iPhone and Android app: Free with system) From the leading data tech company in golf comes the Arccos 360 system.This revolutionary performance tracker combines Live Shot Tracking, GPS 2.0 and a proprietary Tour Analytics platform to help golfers of all abilities lower their scores and have more fun.

Arccos 360 automatically records every shot a golfer makes and analyzes the data in real-time, revealing strengths and weaknesses to enhance on-course decision-making. Compatible with both iPhone and Android devices, Arccos’ industry-leading GPS 2.0 system includes rangefinder distances to any point on 40,000 courses.

The system features 14 sensors that attach to the grip end of a club and pair with the free app. Once the user begins a round, it system maps, measures and records every shot taken, automatically capturing critical data on club distances, putts per round, greens hit in regulation, driving accuracy and more to help players identify patterns and refine strategy.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

39 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices BRIDGESTONE E6 BALLS BridgestoneGolf.com MSRP - $28.99/dozen Just like your average driver can’t get the most out of a F1 car, the average golfer can’t get the most out of a Tour-level golf ball. The new e6 series is the only ball designed to deliver straight distance and was designed to provide optimal performance for more than 80% of golfers. Switch to the Bridgestone e6 line and feel what it’s like to gain accuracy, distance, and a decisive advantage over the competition.

The e6 SOFT is a high-performance ball with a soft feel, designed to produce low driver and long iron spin for incredible straight distance. The advance mantle and cover work together to provide incredible approach and greenside performance.

The e6 SPEED is a high-performance ball with remarkable initial velocity. The core is designed to provide faster speed and low spin off the driver for straight distance. Core to cover, this multilayered ball delivers optimum performance from tee to green.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

40 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices CHAMP PIVIX SPIKES ChampSpikes.com MSRP - $15.99/18-pack Trusted by some of the best players on the PGA Tour, PiviX is a lightweight, lowerprofile golf spike that incorporates springflex traction technology engineered to ergonomically feed each leg into the turf.

The spikes are equipped with SLIM-Lok®, a new low-profile fastening system that allows golfers to get closer to the turf for improved stability, feel and balance throughout the swing.

This durable cleat has CHAMP’s patented “C” wear indicator which turns solid when spikes need to be replaced. Spring flex rotational grip provides ultimate traction during your swing allowing for an extremely stable yet comfortable platform.

LAMKIN Z5 GRIPS LamkinGrips.com MSRP - Starting at $7.99; standard and midsize models available The new Z5 grips from Lamkin are the most advanced multi-compound grips currently available. Made with a proprietary rubber compound, the Z5 features five distinct zones designed to enhance performance and comfort. The horizontal pattern and soft cord weave under the upper hand augments grip stability and traction, while a shallow micro texture at the bottom improves feel and comfort for the lower hand.

Carefully designed color patterns and a simulated rope texture in the middle zone promote proper hand pressure and placement.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

41 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices

BIG MAX BLADE QUATTRO BIGMAXGolf.com MSRP - $299 The #1 brand for golf trolleys and accessories in Europe, each BIG MAX product is engineered to enhance the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience on the golf course. The BIG MAX Blade Quattro is the latest evolution of the BIG MAX family, combining flat-fold technology with added stability in a 4-wheel push cart. This improves performance on hilly terrain and makes the Blade Quattro one of the fastest folding carts on the market. The ultra-flat, lightweight design provides enhanced ease of use for storage and transport, and stability for all sizes of golf bags. In addition to the classic BIG MAX elements, the Blade Quattro features a High Tech Smart Organizer Panel with an ergonomic scorecard holder.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

42 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices ECCO CAGE PRO ECCO.com MSRP - $210 A hybrid men’s golf shoe that looks good and performs flawlessly, the ECCO Cage Pro is a super-lightweight and supple Dritton leather shoe is at the pinnacle of design and functionality.

A water-resistant layer keeps feet dry while the anatomical design of the shoe incorporates soft curves that follow the natural contours of your foot. The unique ECCO SPYDR-GRIP® outsole is a revolutionary design feature, providing exceptional stability using naturally-placed pivot points.

• ECCO Hydromax™ delivers premium quality weather protection • HM Dritton leather for increased breathability • Midsole design includes cage in heel to offer extra stability • ECCO Spydr-Grip® with naturally placed pivot points for excellent grip • Removable comfort fibre insole for extra width

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

43 MSGA Bring in Spring with Our Top Gear Choices

GOLFTEC -- The World Leader in Golf Instruction www.golftec.com Prices Vary While not specifically a piece of gear, if you really want to kick-start your season the key is finding a great coach and starting some lessons. Here in Maryland we’re lucky to have a number of GOLFTEC locations that provide the ideal environment for players of all skill levels.

GOLFTEC teaches more lessons than anyone in the world and their students drop an average of seven strokes from their scorecard. The difference with their services and “traditional” lessons is that they are the experts in technologicallydriven swing analysis, comprehensive instruction on all aspects of the game and finely-tuned club fitting services.

GOLFTEC works with each individual to create a comprehensive game plan tailored to their specific needs. Instructors combine motion-measurement with launch monitors and video analysis for a clear understanding of what needs to be done to improve each player’s swing. It is a convenient and effective one-stop-shop for every game-improvement need.

Locations in Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Ellicott City and Lutherville.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

44 MSGA Junior Grant Program

Maryland State Golf Association

Junior Grant Program

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

45 MSGA Junior Grant Program

Press contacts: Kelly Newland, Director of Rules & Competitions 410-653-5300

The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) offers a grant program for junior golfers that helps to offset the cost of competing in national and regional tournaments.

Grantees will receive reimbursement for up to $500 in tournament-related expenses.

The Association aims to assist players of modest means, who have the skills and interest to play college golf, to increase their visibility to college coaches at junior tournaments such as those organized by the United States Golf Association, American Junior Golf Association, International Junior Golf Tour and other organizations.

Executive Director Bill Smith said, “We believe that our sport can help junior golfers pay for college through golf scholarships, and we hope that this program will help more of our juniors have a chance to play in high-profile events that attract college coaches searching for potential players.”

The MSGA Junior Grant Program is in full compliance with the Rules of Amateur Status and with NCAA recruiting roles. It is open to both boys and girls. Players and their family may apply for a grant via an application found on the MSGA web site at http://msga.org/-junior-grant-program. Applications for 2017 will be accepted beginning March 1, 2017. The MSGA Junior Grant Committee will review the applications and award grants.

The MSGA will award up to four $500 grants in 2017. A grant recipient may use the grant reimbursement for as many tournaments as he or she likes, however an individual player is only eligible to receive one $500 grant in a calendar year.

Grantees will submit receipts or other expense documents to the MSGA for reimbursement. Eligible expenses include entry fees, transportation expenses, lodging, meals and other tournament-related expenses for the player.

“2016 was the first year we offered our grant program and we are very happy it was so well received by our players and their families,” said MSGA President Jack Barse. “I am hopeful that the program can have an even greater impact in 2017.”

A parent of one of our recipients from the 2016 season said, “The junior grant allowed our son to participate in several tournaments that were outside of our budget. Big thanks to the Maryland State Golf Association for investing in our young athletes and promoting the great game of golf! “ More information can be found on the MSGA web site.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

46 RULES REVISITED MODERNIZATION OF THE RULES OF GOLF

RULES REVISITED

MODERNIZATION OF THE RULES OF GOLF

By Kelly Newland, PGA, MSGA Director of Rules & Competitions

The USGA made a major announcement last month about Rules of Golf changes for 2019. It will be important to remember that these proposed changes would not be in effect until the beginning of that year.

For all competitions this season and next you will need to refer to your current Rules of Golf book. In this month’s edition of the MSGA e-magazine we will explore 4 of these major proposed changes.

Many of us are familiar with the current method for dropping a ball. We actually covered this method in an earlier rules article. The EASY Method allows us to drop a ball under the current rules.

The simplest way to drop a ball under a Rule of Golf is: E - Erect Stance A - Arm’s Length S - Shoulder Height Y- You Drop The major change under the Rules Modernization would be that a player could drop a ball from anydistance above the ground, provided it doesn’t

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

How to Drop a Ball

47 RULES REVISITED MODERNIZATION OF THE RULES OF GOLF

touch anything and falls through the air when dropped. This new change will help eliminate the need to re-drop in several situations.

Time for Ball Search Three minutes will be the maximum allotted time to search for a ball, rather than the current five minutes.

A round of golf can take too long in many cases. This new proposed change should help Pace of Play with shorter searches throughout the round.

Repairing Spike Marks The new rule would allow for spike marks to be repaired on the putting green. All damage caused by shoes, clubs and most any other damage on the putting green will be allowed to be fixed by the player.

Under the current rule, old hole plugs and marks caused by the impact of the ball are the only damage that can be fixed by the player. Rule 16-1c tell us that: any other damage to the putting green must not be repaired if it might assist the player in his subsequent play of a hole. While some of the newly proposed changes could speed up play, this change may have the opposite effect.

Leaving Flagstick in the Hole Under the current Rules of Golf, Rule 17-3 tell us: The player’s ball must not strike: a.) The flagstick when it is attended, removed or held up; b.) The person attending or holding up the flagstick or anything carried by him; or There are many more proposed changes for the Rules of Golf.

The USGA has asked each of us to spend some time and provide feedback over the course of the next 6 months. I would encourage everyone to visit the USGA’s feedback page on their website and share your thoughts on these new proposed changes for 2019.

c.) The flagstick in the hole, unattended when the stroke has been made on the putting green.

Currently, there is a 2-stroke penalty for striking the flagstick unattended in the hole when making a stroke from the putting green. The new proposal would eliminate this penalty and allow the player to leave the flagstick in the hole. Would this new change help with Pace of Play?

To view all the major proposed changes please…click here>> To access the USGA Feedback Page please…click here>> APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

48 Buffalo.Agency TecTecTec Selects Buffalo.Agency to Turnkey Marketing in North America

TecTecTec Selects Buffalo.Agency to Turnkey Marketing in North America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

49 Buffalo.Agency TecTecTec Selects Buffalo.Agency to Turnkey Marketing in North America (Reston, VA) – TecTecTec – maker of technologicallyadvanced yet affordable laser rangefinders for golf which are Amazon’s No. 1 category seller – has selected Buffalo.Agency to turnkey a North American marketing program.

Buffalo will focus on search engine optimization, paid search and digital advertising, content, organic and paid social media, and public relations to add to the legions of satisfied TecTecTec rangefinder users.

The company offers four popular models with new premium product soon debuting. Each features an ultra-clear, multi-layered optical lens for excellent visual clarity, while 6x magnification and diopter adjustment ensure golfers easily lock onto any object and receive accurate yardages. All TecTecTec rangefinders feature three scanning modes – Pinsensor measures overlapping targets, including flagsticks and wooded areas; Target Priority displays distance of the closest subject; and Scan Mode helps read distances to hazards.

Features of the VPRO500, VPRO500S, VPRO DLX and VPRO DLXS models ($150 to $230 with free shipping): • VPRO500 and VPRO DLX products measure up to 540 and 600 yards, respectively, both are accurate within one yard

About TecTecTec Founded in 2014, TecTecTec is headquartered in France with representation in Houston and Bali, Indonesia. The company provides golfers worldwide with high-quality products sold directly to consumers at affordable prices by eliminating middlemen.

Progressive thinking, innovative R&D, manufacturing with the tightest quality controls and unwavering customer support led to TecTecTec rangefinders becoming annual bestsellers on Amazon. Beyond golf products, TecTecTec manufactures cameras, drones, projectors, security systems, speakers and rangefinders for hunting.

More information: www.us.tectectec.com

• “S” models feature PinSlope Technology to calculate elevation-adjusted distance to targets • Only 0.41 lbs. in weight • Water resistant and extremely durable • Included with purchase are a premium carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap and microfiber cleaning cloth “Buffalo.Agency has a track record of smartly driving sales,” says Renan Lore, Director of TecTecTec. “It will heavily promote our enviable 4.5-star rating from more than 1,000 Amazon reviewers and TecTecTec’s superbly engineered, uber-accurate, practical, durable and priceconscious golf rangefinders.”

“The golf rangefinder market forecast is $460 million in annual sales by 2020, so TecTecTec is in the right place at the right time,” says Rich Katz, Managing Director of Buffalo. “Coupled with the company’s ardent customer service, its direct-to-consumer business model cuts out middlemen to deliver high-performing product at unbeatable prices.”

TecTecTec rangefinders are backed by a two-year warranty, 24/7 access to customer service and a full refund on products returned within 30 days of purchase.

About Buffalo.Agency A 50-person, full-service, integrated marketing firm headquartered outside Washington, DC, Buffalo.

Agency specializes in the golf, sport and lifestyle markets. It delivers strategy development, public relations, data and analytics, direct marketing, digitalsocial media and creative services to clients operating in more than 40 countries. They include Arccos Golf, CHAMP Spikes, Crown & Caliber, Dollamur Sport Surfaces, ECCO, Fila, GolfTEC, Hydrapak, Kauai Visitors Bureau, LPGA, PGA National Resort & Spa, Scivation, Sea Pines Resort, Telluride Resort & Ski, United Soccer League, US Club Soccer and World Golf Foundation.

More information: Buffalo.Agency, 703.761.1444.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

50 we are golf 5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You

5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You The 10 th anniversary of National Golf Day is Wednesday, April 26 and industry leaders will travel to Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. to share the game’s benefits to society with Congressional members, the Executive Branch and Federal agencies. Whether you hit the links or not, why should you care?

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

51 we are golf 5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You

1.

Two Million Jobs

Golf impacts close to two million jobs across America, or one in 75 U.S. jobs is associated with the game.

This includes PGA TOUR players (like Billy Hurley III, who is attending National Golf Day this year), course superintendents, chefs and pro shop attendants, among others. Have you worked in golf?

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

52 we are golf 5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You

2.

$70 Billion Industry

Each year, golf contributes a nearly $70 billion economic impact to America, including $55.6 billion in annual wage income. Golf’s core industries alone exceed the economic impact of spectator sports, the performing arts and the amusement and recreation industries.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

53 we are golf 5 Reasons Why â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;National Golf Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Should Matter To You

3.

$20 Billion in Charity

Since 2012, golf as a fundraising vehicle has raised nearly $20 billion in charity and includes 143,000 events at a record 12,700 golf facilities with 12 million participants and raising $26,400 average per function.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

54 we are golf 5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You

4.

A Game For All

The median cost for 18 holes of golf in America is $37. Eight out of 10 golfers play public facilities. 75 percent of all U.S. golf rounds are played on public golf courses. It’s less expensive and more accessible than you think! Don’t know how to start? Companies like GolfTEC or programs like “Get Golf Ready” are making lessons affordable and accessible to everyone.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

55 we are golf 5 Reasons Why ‘National Golf Day’ Should Matter To You

5.

$20 Billion in Charity

Did someone say free golf? On April 26, Topgolf is offering free lessons at each of its 28 venues nationwide to celebrate National Golf Day’s 10th anniversary. Don’t know how to golf? This is your chance! Topgolf offers a relaxed, fun environment with food, music and laughs for all!

To join the social conversation, visit the WE ARE GOLF social media hub. Use #NGD17 and @wearegolf on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to show your support for the industry and share why golf is more than a game to you!

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

56 we are golf Golf Florida Alliance Celebrates Annual ‘Florida Golf Day’ at State Capitol in Tallahassee

Golf Florida Alliance Celebrates Annual ‘Florida Golf Day’ at State Capitol in Tallahassee MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

57 we are golf Golf Florida Alliance Celebrates Annual ‘Florida Golf Day’ at State Capitol in Tallahassee

Sunshine State is Home to More Than 1,000 Courses (TALLAHASSEE, Fla.) – Golf Florida Alliance – a collaboration of leading organizations representing all segments of the state’s golf industry – today celebrated “Florida Golf Day” at the State Capitol in Tallahassee.

Industry leaders met with members of the House of Representatives and Senate to discuss the industry’s economic impact, growth of youth development programs and enhanced focus on environmental sustainability.

In 2015, GOLF 20/20 reported the game’s direct economic impact in Florida was $8.2 billion in 2013, an increase from $7.5 billion in 2007. The state’s golf industry supports more than 132,000 jobs and $3.6 billion in wage income. Florida is home to more than 1,000 golf courses, the most of any U.S. state.

“We were thrilled to share golf’s key findings with state legislators, further promoting the game’s many benefits,” says Steve Mona, CEO of the World Golf Foundation (WGF) and administrator of GOLF 20/20. “Home to more than 1,000 courses, more than any U.S. state, the game contributes to local communities in Florida by creating jobs, driving tax revenue and increasing tourism value.”

Florida Golf Day attendees included the Florida Chapter of the Club Managers Association of America, Florida Department of State – Division of Historical Resources, Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association, Florida State University Global Club Management Program, Florida State Golf Association, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Harrell’s, North and South Florida Sections of the PGA of America, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, WGF and World Golf Hall of Fame.

“The annual celebration of Florida Golf Day serves as a friendly reminder and testament to the economic, environmental and fitness benefits the game provides to our home state,” says Representative Jim Boyd, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. “Golf plays an integral role in driving and stimulating the economy with contributions that will positively affect generations to come.”

In January, Florida hosted the “PGA Merchandise Show” in Orlando with more than 40,000 attendees and exhibitors from nearly 90 countries with an estimated $82.7 million economic impact to the region. In total, the state will host 14 professional golf tournaments in 2017: five PGA TOUR, three Champions Tour, one LPGA Tour, one Web.com Tour and four Symetra Tour events.

More info: www.golf2020.com, www.wearegolf.org

About GOLF 20/20 GOLF 20/20 is a unique collaboration of all segments of the golf industry, from associations and manufacturers to golf course owners/operators and the media. It was launched in 2000 and is designed to unite and activate the industry around key strategic initiatives that increase participation and retention, involvement and interest in the game.

For more information about GOLF 20/20, visit www.golf2020.com.

For more information, please visit www.wearegolf.org.

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

58 State News Amateur Open Qualifier at Mountain Branch GC

Amateur Open Qualifier at Mountain Branch GC view leaderboard

B

rian Thomas, who plays from Winter’s Run Golf Club in Bel Air, led a field of 82 starters with a 4-under-par 35-33–68, as the Maryland State Golf Association held the first of its four scheduled dates for its 2017 Amateur and Open championships at Mountain Branch Golf Club in Joppa on May 2.

Jackson Courtney, from Waverly Woods GC, was the only other player with a sub-par round, as he returned 34-35–69. Billy Wingerd, the current Mountain Branch men’s club champion, and Jack Halleron, from Baltimore CC, matched par with 72’s. The weather was mild and sunny, but the players, especially those who played in the afternoon, were buffeted by strong, gusty winds.

With 15 places available for the Amateur it took a 77 to qualify. For the Open, with 12 places available, it took a score of 76 to qualify. There were no ties.

Thomas, who lives around the corner from Mountain Branch, had three birdies and two bogeys on the front nine, and a birdie and an eagle coming back. On the opening nine, he had putts of eight feet, five inches, and a chip-in. At the par-3 11th, his tee shot almost went in the hole, and at the 528-yard 12th, he hit the green in two and rolled home the 13-foot putt. He parred the last six holes.

The 33-year-old food broker, who had qualified two years ago, confirmed that the wind was a huge factor, but he thought he did a good job of managing it, especially in keeping his shots under the stiff breezes. Others maybe not so well. Of the 76 who returned a score, 51 failed to break 80.

Courtney, 18, from Woodstock in Howard County and a Marriott’s Ridge High School senior, got off to a great start with an eagle at the 533-yard second (reached the green in two and dropped an eight-foot putt). He birdied the fourth from three feet, then gave one back when he missed the green at the seventh.

On the back, he birdied 11 from six feet and two-putted for birdie at the 12th, then missed the green at 13 and needed two putts from 20 feet. He finished by hitting three of the four par-5’s in two shots.

The remaining qualifiers will be held May 8 at Worthington Manor GC; May 18 at CC Woodmore, and May 24 at Queenstown Harbor Golf Links.

The Amateur championship, for which there were a whopping 414 entries (up from 324 of a year ago) will be held June 8-11 at Columbia CC in Chevy Chase, and the Open, July 10-12 at Woodholme CC in Pikesville.

- Reported by John Stewart MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

59 State News Amateur Open Qualifier at Worthington Manor GC

Amateur Open Qualifier at Worthington Manor GC played June 8-11 at Columbia CC and the Open will be July 10-12 at Woodholme CC in Pikesville.

Bennett offset two birdies with two bogeys on the front nine, then was 2-under on the back, as he played his last 13 holes at 4-under par. For the round, he reached 16 greens in regulation. Last year, he shot a two-round total of 139 to be first alternate in qualifying for the U.S. Juniors, missing a playoff by a stroke. Later, he played for Baltimore in the annual Baltimore-Washington Junior Team Match.

Y

outh, led by 16-year old Ford Bennett, from Owings Mills and Green Spring Valley Hunt Club, soared to the top of the leaderboard in a Maryland State Golf Association Amateur/Open qualifying tournament at Worthington Manor Golf Club, May 8.

Bennett, a McDonogh High School junior making his first appearance in the event, carded a 2-under-par 3634-70 to lead both divisions. Among other amateurs, Jon Moles, 21, from Frederick, who plays from Worthington Manor, shot 72, where he was joined by Matthew Malits, 17, a DeMatha High School junior from Silver Spring. Bennett Buch, 19, from West Friendship and the University of Maryland, posted a 73.

Among those headed to the Open are Bennett, Moles, and Buch. Ryan Cole, 21, a James Madison senior who will play in the NCAA Regionals next week, also put up a 72.

The cutoff numbers were 24 for the amateurs (32 at 78 and better advanced) and 18 for the Open (20 at 76 and better advanced). The Amateur championship will be

Moles, winner of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bubby Worsham Memorial, had three birdies, three bogeys in matching par-72 for the 6,870-yard Frederick County course. Malits, from Argyle CC, had six birdies in his round, with the highlight a 40-foot putt on the ninth green. It capped a round that saw him mar it with a triple-bogey six on the 17th, as he had hazard woes.

Cole, from Mt. Airy, matched par with two birdies, two bogeys on each nine. It has been quite a spring for the bespectacled young man, as he led James Madison with five top-5 tournament finishes; shot his low round (66) twice, and topped the squad with a 70.56 scoring average, breaking his own record. He was honored as a four-time all-Colonial Athletic Association selection, including first team the last three years.

Two years ago, he shot 69 in a U.S. Open Local Qualifier at Worthington Manor and later that summer tied for sixth in the Maryland Open at Columbia CC. Last year, he was second at NCAA Regionals with a 14-under-par score. Next week, he will be in Austin, Texas for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regionals, lookingfor a repeat trip to Nationals.

The third (of four) Amateur/Open qualifiers will be held May 18, at CC Woodmore, followed by the windup May 24 at Queenstown Harbor Golf Links.

The James Madison University athletic web site contributed to this article. Reported by John W. Stewart.

- Reported by John Stewart APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

60 State News Charlotte Simpson Wins A Conference Championship

Charlotte Simpson Wins A Conference Championship

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SGA member Charlotte Simpson, a member of the Suburban Club in Baltimore, won the A Conference golf championship for IAAM (Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland) last week at Fox Hollow Golf Course. Below is a story courtesy of IAAM. Bryn Mawr senior Charlotte Simpson had another banner day at the A Conference golf championships, following up Monday’s first round of 37 with a 36 on Wednesday at Fox Hollow Golf Course in Timonium to win the individual title while leading her team to the team crown as well.

Roland Park Country School’s Mia Henry finished eight strokes off the pace and Mawrtian teammate Mayalin Brock fired a 90 to finish third.

Bryn Mawr (158) easily outdistanced the runner-up Reds (166) for the team trophy and two-time defending champion Archbishop Spalding (171) was third, followed

by Notre Dame Prep (181) and McDonogh (189).

“Even though they were the favorites, they really kept their focus,” said Bryn Mawr coach March Klein.

“Everybody really contributed. They decorated carts and went out and followed each other on the course. It was great to have that kind of support for each other.”

Simpson, who finished one stroke behind Spalding’s Sydney Mills last spring, said she knew how important it was to have two good showings.

“I knew that Mia (Henry) is a great player, so I needed to be consistent,” said Simpson, who will play for Carnegie Mellon next year. “I tried to be steady and solid, and that’s MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

what I did. At the end, I just wanted to avoid putting up a big number.”

Klein said that Simpson’s leadership qualities greatly helped the Mawrtians’ cause.

And Simpson said that Klein’s positive reinforcement was another key to the victory.

“She always encouraged us after every match, no matter what happened in the match,” Simpson said.

Simpson said that the team did not allow losses in matches to Roland Park and Spalding during the season become an issue.

“I told the team that we needed to focus on the championships, and that’s what we did,” she said. “It’s great to see how much we improved during the season.”

TEAM RESULTS Bryn Mawr – 158 Roland Park – 166 Archbishop Spalding – 171 Notre Dame Prep – 181 McDonough – 189

- Reported by Nelson Coffin

61 State News Four Ball Championship at Country Club of Maryland

Four Ball Championship at Country Club of Maryland

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homas Wharton sank a 25-foot putt on the fourth extra hole to give himself and partner Travis Russell the championship for the 56th Four-Ball Championship of the Maryland State Golf Association at the Country Club of Maryland in Towson, May 4. The other remaining team — Billy Wingerd-Rusty McCready — had a chance, but Wingerd’s bid to extend play missed from 15 feet.

With four of the 65 teams tied at 6-under 64, the playoff used holes 16-17-18. Wharton promptly made a 16-foot par putt at 16 to stay in contention. Ben Shields-Mike Filler went out at 16, and the remaining teams parred the next two, before Wharton won it.

Alex Taylor-Ben Warnquist recorded the fourth 64, but were disqualified for failure to return a properly completed scorecard in which a score for each hole must be marked opposite the name of the player who made it.

Curiously, Wingerd-McCready were in the first group off in the morning; Russell-Wharton were in the first afternoon group, and Taylor-Warnquist were in the day’s final pairing. Wingerd had four birdies, McCready, three — none from outside 15 feet — and both missed from eight feet at No.11 for the only bogey. Filler birdied the first from 25 feet, and eagled the 318-yard, par-4 third with a 10-yard chip-in to set the tone for that round.

Three birdies on the back did the rest. Taylor-Warnquist had two birdies on the front and four on the back.

Three teams from the first three groups off No. 1 in the morning accounted for the day’s 65’s — Drew OuttenMike Stokes, Michael O’Neil-Sam Pancoast (helped by an eagle-3 by O’Neil at the 18th), and Michael Mulieri, a former MSGA Amateur champion, and Brett Williams, a past MSGA Amateur finalist.

The last two teams and Taylor-Warnquist had the only back-9 31’s, while Bart Mease-Rob Menefee had the only front-9 31. The tight 6,254-yard course played to a par of 35-35–70. Although there was some sun in the morning, most of the day was overcast with strong winds making it seem much cooler than the 60 degrees registered.

- Reported by John Stewart APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

62 State News 87Th State Team Championship Review

87Th State Team Championship Review

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olumbia Country Club, sparked by an 8 1/2 – 1/2 advantage at home, defeated Baltimore CC, 12 1/2 – 5 1/2 to capture the 87th Team Matches of the Maryland State Golf Association and end a title- winning drought that had existed since 2002. In the process, the champions extended their record total to 12, all since 1973.

At Columbia, where the home team was so solid that Baltimore was only able to win five holes in the three matches, professional Bob Dolan-Mike Mitchell swept professional Pat Coyner-Michael Mulieri, 3-0; Richard Holland-Doug Hurson took care of Jon Steckler-Bob Kaestner the same way, while a late rally by Baltimore’s Patrick McCormick-Ryan McCarthy prevented a third shutout, as Marty West- Colin St. Maxens won, 2 1/2 – 1/2.

At Baltimore, Columbia’s Billy Peel-Michael Kornheiser stopped David Feeley-Ben Kaestner, 3-0, but Baltimore took over from there. Mike O’Neil-Brandon Luckett dispatched Brian McCormick-Alex Ten Hoeve, 3-0, and Andrew RiceKevin Tehan dropped Chris Lamond-Ralph Blasey, IV, 2-1.

Dolan highlighted the opening pairing when he dipped under par for the front nine with a ninth-hole birdie to pad a lead to 3 up and Mitchell took care of the back. He eagled the 520-yard 12th with a breaking 25-foot putt and had a birdie at the 17th, which became the decisive point when he ran home a curling, downhill putt from the back of the 18th green for a halving par.

Holland got a front-nine point with a birdie at the fifth, as the other eight holes were halved, while Hurson holed a putt at the 15th to go 1 up on the side and 2 up on the match. The teams halved the 16th and at the 17th, with Columbia in position to go 2 up and 3 up, respectively, the match were conceded. On the closing nine, the pairings halved all the necessary holes but Nos. 15 and 17.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

In the finale, St. Maxens had three birdies on the front, including the first two holes, and two on the back– 14 and 17. West won 10-11 with pars and the team was 3 up on the nine going to 15. McCarthy won 15, McCormick birdied 16, the 17th was halved in birdies and both were credited with winning pars at the 18th to tie for the side.

The appearance of Columbia’s Marty West, a ritual of Spring, prompted some research in longevity and durability.

With no records available, current standards will have to do. Jim Castagna, a Manor CC member, made his 47th straight start this month; West goes back to 1970, but there are some gaps, and there are more with commendable numbers. This was No. 35 for Bob Kaestner, from Baltimore CC, and Columbia professional Bob Dolan has logged three starts as an amateur and 27 as a pro.

Castagna reported having started in 1971 and having played on three of Crofton CC’s championship teams, in 1975-76-78.

West said, “I actually played when I was at the University of North Carolina; my guess is it started in 1970. I remember driving up from school to play in matches. I can’t be sure I played in every final [Columbia has been in 18, winning 12], but I would guess I have played in most if not all. These matches have always been a great way to begin the season and I enjoy the competition and camaraderie.”

Sunday, April 23 Semi-Finals Defending champion Baltimore Country Club and Columbia CC each took the same route in registering area victories to reach the championship round of the 87th Team Matches of the Maryland State Golf Association, April 23. Baltimore went 8-1 at home on its way to a 13 1/2 – 4 1/2 victory over Ocean City Yacht & CC, while Columbia blunted Manor CC’s challenge with a 7-2 edge at home and ended with a 13-5 win.

The championship will be played April 29, with Columbia the home team.

With a victory, Columbia would finally extend its record title total to 12 after not having won since 2002. A Baltimore triumph would extend its current streak to three in a row, only the third such in the event’s history. Previously, Country Club of Maryland won in 1946-47-48, and Columbia broke that record with wins in 1995-96-97-98. In the last three of that string, Baltimore CC was the victim.

This time, Baltimore set the stage for its victory by dominating at home against Ocean City, also a loser against Baltimore CC in the area final two years ago. There were two 3-0 sweeps, as Jon Steckler-Brett Williams won each

63 State News 87Th State Team Championship Review nine, 2-up, and Mike O’Neil (eagle-2 at the 12th)-Brandon Luckett were 1-up on the front, 4-up on the back. Kevin Tehan-Andrew Rice picked up the other two home points by winning the back, 2-up, and the match. In Saturday’s win over the CC of Maryland, Rice had an eagle and five birdies to be 7-under on his own ball through 12 holes.

Ocean City’s best effort at home was returned by Kyle Gebhart-Joe Selt, who won the back and the match for 2 1/2 points against the father/son combination of Bob and Ben Kaestner. Columbia was equally as solid beating upset-minded Manor. Columbia registered points in all six pairings (as did Baltimore), highlighted by a 3-0 home win from Richard Holland-Doug Hurson (they were also 3-0 against Beaver Creek in the area semifinals the day before).

Manor CC recorded points in five of its six pairings, led by a 2-1 decision from Brandon Cigna-Matt Bart at home.

This marked the best showing by the club since it lost to Columbia in the 1979 final. It has won four times, the last in 1971.

Columbia CC 13, Manor CC 5 At Columbia: Bob Dolan-Mike Mitchell (C) split with Greg Pierczynski, 1 1/2-1 1/2; Richard Holland-Doug Hurson (C) d. Bart Mease-Dave Tacchetti, 3-0; Marty West-Colin St. Maxens (C) d. Ben Warnquist-Josh Williamowsky, 2 1/2 – 1/2. At Manor: Billy Peel-Michael Kornheiser (C) d.

John Ohly-Jim Castagna. 2 1/2-1/2; Brian McCormick-Alex Terhoeve (C) lost to Brandon Cigna-Matt Bart 1-2; Ralph Blasey, IV-Chris Lamond (C) d. Dan Falls-Alex Taylor, 2 1/21/2.

Baltimore CC 13 1/2, Ocean City 4 1/2 At Ocean City: Pat Conyer-Mike Mulieri (B) d. Buddy SassTad Kaufman, 2-1; Bob-Ben Kaestner (B) lost to Kyle GebhartJoe Spelt, 1/2 – 21/2; Patrick McCormick-Ryan McCarthy (B) d. Brian Taylor-John Perry, 3-0. At Baltimore: Jon StecklerBrett Williams (B) d. Chris Carbaugh-Ray Griffin, 3-0; Mike O’Neil-Brandon Luckett (B) d. Nolan Dove-Scott Kemeys, 3-0; Kevin Tehan-Andrew Rice (B) d. Eric Brubaker-Phillip Fenstermaker, 2-1.

Saturday, April 22 Quarter Finals Baltimore Country Club easily kept alive its hopes for a third straight Maryland State Golf Association Team Match championship, defeating the Country Club of Maryland, 15-3, to reach the Baltimore area final, while Manor Country Club scored an upset by getting past Congressional CC, 108, April 22.

In the area finals on April 23, Baltimore CC will play Ocean City Yacht & CC, and Manor will oppose Columbia CC. Ocean City and Piney Branch GC tied, 9-9, with the Ocean City team advancing, as the pairing of pro Buddy Sass and member Scott Kaufman won with a par at the first extra hole against pro Jim Bennett and member Mike Stokes. With the pros at Columbia, host pro Bob Dolan and amateur partner Mike Mitchell set the tone with a 3-0 win over Dirk SchultzKen Lampard.

The commanding performance by Baltimore CC was highlighted by four 3-0 sweeps —

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

64 State News 87Th State Team Championship Review Beaver Creek and Clustered Spires were close all the way, but in the end the Western Maryland club prevailed with six points at home and four away for a 10-8 verdict. Bernie Deane-Scott Raley won at home to secure what turned out to be the clinching point.

from Kevin Tehan-Andrew Rice, Mike O’Neil-Ben Kaestner, Bob Kaestner-Kyle Wheeler, and Jon Steckler-Tim Dilli. The winners earned 7 1/2 points each at home and away.

The Ocean City-Piney Branch match was close all the way.

Each side had a 3-0 decision and each side played well on its home course getting seven of the available nine points.

In the final pairing at Ocean City, the home side’s Bryan Taylor-J.P. Perry lost the front to Joe Bruns-Matt Lukehart, but won the back and the teams halved the match. Ocean City’s 3-0 sweep saw Kyle Gebhart-Joe Selt get five birdies in seven holes on the front nine to key their victory against brothers Bam and Devon Lesniak.

Columbia, an event-leading 11-time champion, got 7 1/2 points at home in returning to the Washington final after a one-year miss (lost to Congressional). Manor, which last won a title in 1979, survived its closest contest of the four rounds in sidetracking Congressional, a 10-time champion.

In the finals, Columbia and Ocean City will be at home.

The championship match will be April 29, at the hone of the Washington winner.

Saturday, April 15 Manor Country Club and Piney Branch Golf Club, each with a modicum of success in the past, posted stunning victories to highlight third-round action in the 87th Team Matches of the Maryland State Golf Association, April 15.

Manor, whose last of five championships was in 1979, got 7 1/2 points from four teams away in defeating the University of Maryland GC, 12-6, while Piney Branch, a loser against Rolling Road GC in a local semifinal pairing in 2014 — its only known previous advancement out of the second round — turned the tables on the Catonsville entry, 11 1/2 – 6 1/2, getting eight points at home.

With Easter on April 16, the local semifinals and finals will be held April 22-23, with the respective Baltimore and Washington winners moving to the championship, April 29.

The four local finalists from last year were awarded firstround byes and Beaver Creek CC and Congressional CC (Washington) and Baltimore CC were among the latest winners, while Glen Riddle GC lost to Ocean City Y&CC, 11-7. A year ago, Glen Riddle had begun its march to the Baltimore final with an 11-7 conquest of Ocean City.

Rolling Road, usually dominant at home, did collect 5 1/2 points, but never got going at Piney Branch. The home side (pro Jim Bennett-Andy Hill with three points and Drew Outten-Tyler Hahn and Ben Lukehart-Byron Johnson with 2 1/2 points apiece) proved to be just too much.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

In Washington, perennial challenger Columbia CC used a 3-point sweep by Doug Hurson-Richard Holland to thwart an upset bid by Old South CC, 9 1/2 – 8 1/2, and will be at home next against Beaver Creek. Congressional CC rolled past Norbeck CC, 14-4, and will be at Manor.

In Baltimore, defending champion Baltimore CC defeated Hunt Valley GC, 17-1, and will be home against the CC of Maryland, a 10-8 victor over upset-minded Chartwell CC. Maryland got only three points at home, but earned 7 1/2 at Chartwell, led by a 3-0 sweep from Chris PerriniLen Callahan. Ocean City rebounded from its loss of a year ago to turn back Talbot CC, 11-7, and will be home against Piney Branch.

Sunday, April 9 Three of the four semifinalists from last year were among the winners, as play in the 87th annual Team Championship of the Maryland State Golf Association moved through its first two rounds last weekend. With all four drawing firstround byes, Glen Riddle was the lone exception, losing to Ocean City Y&CC, 11 1/2 – 6 1/2.

Among the other three — defending champion Baltimore CC, 2016 finalist Beaver Creek CC, and Congressional CC — Baltimore had the closest call, needing major assistance from each of its last teams home and away to escape with a 9 1/2 – 8 1/2 triumph.

Mike Mulieri-Brett Williams won three points at home, while Patrick McCormick-Ryan McCarthy won the back and the match to collect 2 1/2 points at Mountain Branch. The last pairing was the only one in which BCC was not ahead at the turn.

The only other 9 1/2 – 8 1/2 second-round decision went to 11-time champion Columbia CC, as it got past twotime winner Breton Bay G&CC. The decisive points came in the middle pairing at Columbia, as Scott Lamond-Alex Tenhoeve won 2 points. Breton Bay’s last side away helped with 3 points, but its final side at home was limited to 1/2.

There were two 9 1/2 – 8 1/2 decisions in the first round, as Black Rock GC defeated Cumberland CC and Piney Branch GC defeated Eagle’s Nest CC. In the second round, Black Rock lost to Clustered Spires GC, 17-1, but Piney Branch stayed in the hunt with a stunning 10-8 decision against Sparrows Point CC. “We came from nowhere,” Piney Branch head professional Jeff Zachman reported. “At the turn, we were 5 up, even, and 3-down at home and 2-down, 3-down, and 3-down away. For the back nine, we got 2 points, 2 1/2 points, and 1 point at home and 1/2 point, 1 point, and 2 points away.

There will be only one round of matches this weekend (Saturday) because of Easter Sunday.

- Reported by John Stewart

Years ago we discovered the exact point, the dead center of middle age. It occurs when you are too young to take up golf and too old to rush up to the net.

Franklin Pierce

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66 The Antigua Group lifestyle and golf apparel

Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apparel for 2017 MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

67 The Antigua Group lifestyle and golf apparel

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

68 The Antigua Group lifestyle and golf apparel

Emphasizing an updated fabric story, the Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation’s leading designers and marketers of lifestyle and golf apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand – announced its using spandex in its Spring 2017 Men’s Collection.

“Almost every style has incorporated this fiber into the construction of fashion fabrics for both function and form, eliminating any garment resistance throughout the golf swing and offering an enhanced supple hand, smooth drape and renewed recovery with every use,” says Sean Gregg, Antigua’s Vice President of Product Development and Marketing Support.

The self collar style Sustain takes a solid piece-dyed jersey/spandex top shoulder detail and contrasts it against a heather over-dyed pointelle mesh -- the latter of which offers breathability while wicking. The main body fabric is a subdued color shade compared to its jersey complement, based on the use of heather yarns softening the color tones. The two fabrics meet at the shoulder-sleeve seam, where a neutral elastic heather tape overlaps the seam to complete the seamless merge.

Utilizing the same detailed complexity of fabric paired with style, this season’s style Streak incorporates a simply engineered chest and sleeve panel of primary brights complemented by a grey heather jersey front torso panel. The contrast of the engineered color and neutral horizontal chest stripe is separated with this season’s primary pop accent colors. Strategically knit into the divisional color separation is a near-invisible pairing of horizontal mesh stripes that add a textured surface interest with breathability.

Style Array features a jacquard double knit fabric built for breathability but disguised as an all-over, 45-degreeangled geometric mesh pattern. A self collar is set against contrasting, yet complementing accent shoulder seam tape distinguishes it as a true fashion style.

This season’s stripe collection offers fresh vitality in contrasting colors. Incorporating spandex yarns into a fine jersey knit gives the simplest of stripe patterns a charged appeal. A solid-and-heather tonal feed stripe combined with heather overdyed insets -- as seen on the self collar style Orbit -- demonstrates this with sophisticated, simplistic appeal. The solid quarter-inch, all-over repeat of style Strand dyed together with a complementing tonal pinstripe and finished with a matching flat knit collar is a fresh take on the classic golf feed stripe. And style Domain’s use of tonal and contrasting accent stripes oscillating in a light-to-dark ombre pattern makes this self collar jersey/spandex polo a centerpiece garment for the collection.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

Using a self collar as a complementing accent to the boldly patterned style Infinite embellishes its fresh mix of color-on-color stripes, making it a must-have in every color combination this season. Style Havoc is the epitome of the fashion polo in Antigua’s Spring ’17 collection, with its use of variegating space dye yarns.

Using yarns dyed in colors specific to this season’s collection, it’s been knit in an engineered pattern repeat consisting of alternating space dye and solid yarns that creates an ever lightening, sophisticated tonal effect.

Antigua continues to embellish textured solids this season by adding an abstract geometric all-over embossed interlock style. Style Survey creates an optical effect of light and shadow that brings this solid style to life with a golfer’s every movement. To enhance its sophisticated fashion appeal, it’s created using an unembossed solid self collar and cuff interlock making for a truly handsome piece.

Completing this season’s polo offering is a sublimation print with strategically engineered front and back panels.

Purposely designed with a color-to-white gradient and solid-to-geometric stripe detail, style Finesse fully demonstrates the depth of this season’s primary colors as they wash to white. It’s both a fun and active styling fit to the collection.

69 The Antigua Group lifestyle and golf apparel

APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

70 MSGA Becoming an MSGA Volunteer

Becoming an MSGA Volunteer

As a non-profit organization, the MSGA relies heavily on the support of volunteers and continues to grow through the generosity of these individuals. Volunteers assist the staff in providing the highest level of service to golfers and golf clubs in Maryland. We are currently seeking volunteers that are interested in serving as Tournament Officials or Course Raters.

Tournament Officials Each year the MSGA conducts state championships, junior events, qualifying for USGA National Championships, and One-Day competitions. Without the volunteers, running these events successfully would not be possible.

There are a variety of tasks required to run successful events, and we will find a job that matches your talents.

Even if you have never opened up a rule book there are a wide range of jobs to meet various skills, knowledge, and talent. Volunteer duties may include course setup, spotters, starters, scoring, pace of play, and on course officials. Uniforms are provided for Tournament Officials.

Course Raters The MSGA course rating teams visit over 30 golf courses per year. A course rating team is comprised of four or more trained volunteers, who are assigned courses within their geographic region. When rating a golf course, the team evaluates each hole using the USGA

Download Application

Course Rating System. The majority of the team’s time is spent measuring distances to various obstacles from specific landing zones based on shot parameters. Upon completion of the course rating, the team is given an opportunity to play the golf course being evaluated.

If you are interested or would like more information, please follow these steps: • Volunteers must be members of the MSGA. If not currently a member, you must first join the MSGA. For a list of member clubs (having a handicap at a member club constitutes membership), go to http://msga.org/member-club-directory • Download and complete the MSGA Committee Form by selecting “Download Application” below and return to the MSGA; OR, complete the form online by selection “Online Application below. Contact Kelly Newland, MSGA Director of Rules & Competitions, at 410-6535300 ext. 6 for questions or additional information about becoming an MSGA volunteer.

• Once we receive your Volunteer Form, we will help you coordinate a day to volunteer in your area with your desired interest.

• Receive Official welcome Letter, uniform, and any additional volunteer information or training.

Online Application

We look forward to you joining the Maryland State Golf Association. If you have any questions or would like to receive additional information contact Kelly Newland at 410-653-5300 ext. 6.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

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MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

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APril-may 2017 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE

It is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place this world is when one is playing golf.

Robert Wilson Lynd

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The greatest thing about tomorrow is, I will be better than I am today.

And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how I look at my life. I will be a better golfer, I will be a better person, I will be a better father, I will be a better husband, I will be a better friend. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the beauty of tomorrow.

Tiger Woods

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It’s not about winning or losing.

It’s about saving money on car insurance for MSGA members.

See how much more you could save with a special MSGA member discount.

geico.com/disc/MSGA 1-800-368-2734

GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, One GEICO Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2015.

78 state news MSGA Winner’s circle

The Maryland State Golf Association supports the following programs and initiatives in its pursuit of enhancing and improving the game of golf in the State of Maryland: • The MSGA sponsors the Emmet Gary Scholarship which is presented annually to agronomy students at the University of Maryland. Since 1969, there have been 157 recipients who have received scholarships totaling over $300,000. Many of the students have gone on to become golf course superintendents in Maryland and across the country.

• The MSGA became a co-sponsor of the First Tee Metro Tour in the State of Maryland in 2013. The First Tee Metro Tour is a developmental tournament series that is open to The First Tee participants from the Greater Washington, D.C., Howard County, Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County Chapters. The participants must be an active First Tee participant, at least 12 years of age and a Birdie Level Participant.

• Since 2006, the MSGA has awarded educational scholarships to individuals employed by MSGA member clubs and/or their children, and to students having completed their junior year of high school with a bona fide connection to the game of golf. To date, $98,250 of scholarships have been awarded under this program.

• The MSGA is offering grants to support junior golfers in their pursuit of obtaining a golf scholarship.

This is a new program which began in 2015.

• The MSGA is contributing toward the creation of the Turfgrass Pathology Research Endowed Chair at the University of MD. Recognizing the vital importance of this position, the endowment will enable the University to recruit and support a world class pathologist and continue the industry-leading success of the Maryland Turfgrass Program.

The Executive Committee of the MSGA encourages all golfers in the State of Maryland to partner with us in supporting these worthy causes. All contributions to the MSGA are fully deductible in accordance with IRS regulations and will be recognized on the MSGA website and at the annual meeting.

Please send your contribution payable to the MSGA at 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite 145, Baltimore, MD 21208.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | APril-may 2017

FOR THOSE As Americans, it is our collective duty to honor those who

W H O S E R V E D, have sacrificed by serving the families they leave behind.

OUR THANKS IS This is our mission. This is your call to duty. Become A Wingman.

N OT E N O U G H WWW.FOLDS OFHONOR.ORG/JOIN-MISS ION

Stop by to have some fun and hit some balls, or schedule a lesson to start improving your game today!

Olney Golf Park is the Mid-Atlanticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premiere golf practice facility and home to the SMGA, the Golf 4 Kids Academy and the Performance Golf Academy. Located in Olney, MD, Olney Golf Park offers a country club type experience for the public with PGA, LPGA, & NZPGA Golf Instructors, Club Fitters certified by all of our OEM Partners, on site club repair and the best Green Grass Golf Shop in the area. Everyone loves the island green, covered double deck heated tee line, 2 acre short game practice area, and state of the art teaching studio

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C har i ty co r n e r

The MSGA Charity Corner is a service provided for charities to list their upcoming golf events, or individuals trying to find an event to participate in your area.

Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America

Charities wishing to submit their information for posting can do so by clicking here (submit to handicap & member services) Golfers can find a listing of events HERE.

MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION

PROGRAMS & SERVICES • Conduct 19 Men’s State Championships • Conduct 11 Women’s State Championships ers for both men and women • Conduct local collegiate competitions • Conduct one day Play Day net events • Along with the MAPGA provide handicap and club tournament software services and maintenance of those services • Provide course and slope rating for men and women’s tees free • Scholarships for member club employees and/or children, and junior golfers who are involved in the game • Junior Girls’ Scholarship Program • Sponsor the Emmet Gary Turf Scholarships at the University of Maryland • Conduct Rules of Golf and Handicap Seminars • Monitor and lobby state legislation impacting golf and the turf grass industries t of all Maryland golfers.

• Provide amateur reinstatement services • Promote the game • Publish e-newsletters to inform members of current news within the organization • Hole-in-One Club exclusively for members of member clubs • Golf Patron Program (discount golf program for MD golfers) • Honor the Player of the Year and the Senior Player of the Year • Promote state wide charity tournaments on web site’s Charity Corner

MARYLANDSPORTS.US N EW A DDRESS & P HONE T HE WAREHOUSE AT C AMDEN YARDS 323 W. C AMDEN S TREET 4 TH F LOOR B ALTIMORE , M D 21201 410.223.4158

ONE STATE.

ONE TEAM. 13+ PARTNERS 10+ STADIUMS 23+ NATATORIUMS 8+ DIVING CENTERS 200+ GOLF COUR SES 800+ BASEBALL FIELDS

TEAMMARYLAND.US TEAM MARYLAND

MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION

OFFICERS & STAFF 2017 Board of Directors

COMING SOON

PRESIDENT John Barse Columbia CC Jack@barse.org 301-229-6031

VICE PRESIDENT Diane Herndon Argyle CC dinger54@gmail.com 301-518-9221

VICE PRESIDENT Cliff Patterson Manor CC cliff@mpmattorneys.com 301-651-8251

VICE PRESIDENT David “Moose” Brown Rolling Road GC moose@advpack.com 410-358-9444

VICE PRESIDENT Jan Miller Baltimore CC jmiller2516@yahoo.com 410-339-5872

VICE PRESIDENT Brian Fitzgerald Chevy Chase Club tzgerald@equuspartners.com 703-391-1482

VICE PRESIDENT Paul Dillon Congressional CC ped529@comcast.net 301-518-5567

SECRETARY Robert Sherwood Columbia CC jrssenior@msn.com 443-534-5118

DIRECTOR AT LARGE Carolyn Hudson Oak Creek GC carhud@aol.com 301-661-0149

2017 MSGA Staff EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR William Smith Hillendale CC bsmith@msga.org 410-653-5300 DIRECTOR OF RULES AND COMPETITIONS Kelly Newland knewland@msga.org 410-653-5300

VICE PRESIDENT Ted Florenz Chartwell Golf & CC jetflorenz@comcast.net 410-492-0472

COMING SOON

ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (Handicap Manager) Matt Sloan matt@msga.org 410-653-5300

VICE PRESIDENT Robert Stewart Elkridge Club rms@springcap.com 410-685-8007

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Kim Ferguson kferguson@msga.org 410-653-5300

VICE PRESIDENT Alexander Martin Green Spring Valley HC abmartin1@aol.com 443-310-2445 COMING SOON

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & TOURNAMENTS James Hewatt james@msga.org 410-653-5300

TREASURER John Pauliny Hillendale CC johnpauliny@comcast.net 410-252-9107

Maryland State Golf Association

1777 Reisterstown Rd, Ste. 145 Baltimore, MD 21208 www.msga.org

Maryland State Golf Magazine ‘Advisory Board members and contributors’ Allen Wronowski, 37th President of the PGA of America (2010-2012) and Honorary President of the PGA of America (2012-2014) - Contributing national and special features writer Steve Mona CEO, World Golf Foundation (WGF) Contributing national and special features writer

PRODUCED FOR THE MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION BY

Jon Guhl, Executive Director, Middle Atlantic PGA (MAPGA) ‘MAPGA Focus’ editorial feature writer Rick Robbins, President, American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) ‘Architectural Review’ editorial William Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) MSGA editorial Marty West III, Nine-time Maryland Amateur Champion, Five-time Mid Atlantic Amateur Champion, Two-time Walker Cup ‘The Amateur Interview’ columnist David Norman, Past President, International Association of Golf Administrators and Past Executive Director of the Virginia State Golf Association (VSGA) Commercial Sales and Sponsorship Director

Executive Publisher Marcus Bain mbain@tsportsmedia.com Design Paul George Vedanayagam paulavigeorge@gmail.com

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