April 2014 Issue # 10
coaches corner
Ricky
Serrano
Cattail Creek Country Club
Rule
13-4
on the greens
Caves Valley
Full of Welcome
Surprises
Steve Mona
2014 Luxury Destination report
National Golf Day
Social Media Campaign
Golf Destinations
in partnership with
Steve Stricker | PGA Tour Player 913D3 | 8.5° | B1 | 166 mph Ball Speed
Danielle Sullivan | Amateur 913D2 | 12° | B2 | 107 mph Ball Speed
John Nesco | Amateur 913D2 | 10.5° | B2 | 149 mph Ball Speed
Jeffrey Goodman | Amateur 913D3 | 9.5° | C3 | 142 mph Ball Speed
John Cassino | Amateur 913D2 | 8.5° | C3 | 139 mph Ball Speed
Bill Haas | PGA Tour Player 913D2 | 8.5° | B2 | 171 mph Ball Speed
Phillip Jefferson | Amateur 913D3 | 8.5° | C3 | 135 mph Ball Speed
Rich Thurber | Amateur 913D3 | 9.5° | C3 | 152 mph Ball Speed
Scott Stallings | PGA Tour Player 913D3 | 8.5° | D1 | 175 mph Ball Speed
THE NEW TITLEIST 913 DRIVERS The success story began the moment Titleist 913 drivers were introduced on Tour. And since then the momentum has grown with every player fit, as amateurs experience the best combination of speed and forgiveness for their game. New 913 driver innovations to the face insert, rear weight and lower CG location give players more distance than ever before, along with uncompromising looks, sound and feel. And our patented, industry-leading SureFitÂŽ Tour hosel technology provides 16 independent loft and lie combinations to achieve the most precise fit in the game today. Visit titleist.com/913 and learn how Titleist driver technology can deliver more for your game.
High performance 460cc full pear-shaped driver with exceptional forgiveness and control.
High performance 445cc classic pear-shaped driver with forgiveness and Tour-inspired workability.
Join Team Titleist at titleist.com Š2013 Acushnet Company.
Contents
Executive Director’s Welcome
07
William K. Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association
AMATEUR INTERVIEW WITH MARTY WEST
10
Bart George
Coaches corner
24
Ricky Serrano
Steve mona National Golf Day – Social Media Campaign
24
34
10
AMATEUR INTERVIEW WITH MARTY WEST
Bart George
on the greens with
40
Steve Glossinger, CGCS
RULES REVISITED
54
Rule 13-4: Full of Welcome Surprises
Destination report 40
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations
State news
62
62
74
Proud Host of the Men’s & Women’s
Golf, Sleep. Golf, Sleep. Repeat as often as necessary.
“Back to Back” 2014 U.S. Open Championships
TALAMORE GOLF RESORT Talamore features 36 incredible holes designed by Rees Jones and Arnold Palmer and continues to receive the highest acclaim from Golf Digest and Golflink.com. Call one of our golf specialists today and plan your trip to the Sandhills region. 800.552.6292 talamoregolfresort.com
A s they say, time flies when
you’re having fun. Before the pros and spectators arrive in June 2014 for the first ever “Back to Back” U.S. Open Championships, come for your own once-in-a-lifetime golf trip. Besides the renowned Pinehurst No. 2 course, the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen area has over 40 courses to challenge golfers of every skill level. Visit and catch the excitement as the clock ticks closer to June. And if you’re planning to join us for either or both Opens, bring your clubs and play after you watch the world’s best golfers complete their rounds. And of course there are great pubs, cafes and dining establishments to satisfy any appetite. Choose from a variety of shops to keep the memory alive for years to come. 2014 is your year to come enjoy The Home of American Golf.
Contact us at (800) 346-5362 or visit homeofgolf.com Scan here for our website and an Official Visitors Guide
TOBACCO ROAD GOLF The Sandhills area hasn’t been the same since the opening of Tobacco Road...a course of such beauty, it will thrill you with its creativity. We don’t guarantee your best round the first trip ‘round the Road, but you will remember the trip! 877.284.3762 tobaccoroadgolf.com
PINEWILD COUNTRY CLUB OF PINEHURST Pinewild is the host site to the PGA Tour’s “Qualifying School” and the USGA’s U.S. Open Championship Qualifying....with 48 holes of golf, creating memorable experiences to last a lifetime. 800.523.1499 pinewildcc.com
The perfect getaway awaits you at the Home of American Golf®
bill smith Welcome
Executive Director’s Welcome
What Do The Letters Next To My Handicap Mean? L is for local handicap – this is the letter you will see most commonly. A “local handicap” is either a handicap that that is greater than the maximum USGA Handicap Index limit (36.4 for men, 40.4 for women), a handicap that is revised more frequently than allowed or a handicap based on a player’s temporary disability. A ‘local handicap” is not a Handicap Index, and it must be identified by the letter “L” to indicate that it is for local use only. A “trend handicap” (which may include un-reviewed scores posted since the last revision) is not a Handicap Index and must be identified by the letter “L” to indicate it is a “local handicap”. M means that a Handicap has been modified by the Handicap Committee. A Handicap may be modified when the committee feels that a player’s Handicap Index is not reflecting their potential ability. Some reasons a Handicap might be modified include: improving faster than the Handicap System can react, numerous Away or Internet scores which result in a Handicap Index increasing by 3.0 or more, etc. Another reason is when scoring record as been activated in between revision periods. In this case the M will be dropped at the next revision. R designates that a handicap has been automatically reduced. Players often ask “Why is there an R after my Handicap Index” A Handicap Index is displayed with an R because two or more tournament scores have been posted within the past year that are at least three strokes better than the current Handicap Index based on the most recent twenty scores. Tournament Scores (T-Scores) are kept for a minimum of one calendar year from when they are posted or longer if they are still within a player’s current 20-score history. Contrary to popular belief, a reduced handicap is an official Handicap Index and must be used unless the club’s Handicap Committee chooses to take further action. N stands for nine-hole Handicap Index. A nine-hole handicap may be used in inter-club play against other players with nine-hole handicaps. If a competition requires a Handicap Index, a nine-hole handicap should be doubled for 18-hole play. NL is a nine-hole handicap which exceeds the maximum nine-hole handicap index of 18.2 for men and 20.2 for women. WD designates that a players Handicap has been withdrawn by the Handicap Committee. The committee must withdraw the Handicap Index of a player who repeatedly fails to meet the player responsibilities under the USGA Handicap System. A withdrawn handicap will be reinstated under the conditions set forth by the Handicap Committee. Now that spring has finally arrived, I hope all of you are getting out to your favorite golf course and enjoying the wonderful game of golf. May your drives be long and straight and may your scores be low.
Bill Smith Executive Director Maryland State Golf Association
William K. Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association
“To win a golf match, play the course, not your opponent� Unknown
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
10 Amateur Interview Bart George Share
The Amateur Interview is broguht to you by
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Bart George Amateur Interview 11 Share
AMATEUR INTERVIEW WITH MARTY WEST
Bart George Name Member Club/Play At
Bart George US Naval Academy Golf Club
Coach /Teacher
Chris Baloga/Sean English (Caves Valley)
What clubs are in your bag?
Irons: 3 iron – Titleist AP1
4-P - Titleist 714 CB
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM4 (60, 54, 50) 3 wood: Taylormade SLDR (15) Driver: Taylormade R1 Putter: Taylormade Ghost Spider What golf ball do you play?
Titleist ProV1X
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
12 Amateur Interview Bart George Share
Bart was my first recruit when I began coaching in the summer of 2010. At the time he was a very good local player that would traditionally shoot low-mid 70’s in nearly every tournament. I remember his first tournament playing for the team at Bethpage Red in September 2011. In the second round of the 36 hole day, I walked the last 9 holes with him as he shot a 2-under par 68. He was thrilled as it was his first tournament round that he had ever broken 70. Fast forward two and a half years later, he is frustrated each time he leaves the course now and doesn’t shoot something under 70. Bart has come a long way since arriving on campus, and with his work ethic I expect him to continue making great strides going into his final year as a Greyhound. Christopher Baloga Head Coach, Loyola University
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Bart George Amateur Interview 13 Share
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
14 Amateur Interview Bart George Share
Thank you for taking the time to do this interview. First let me begin by asking at what age did you begin playing golf? Who introduced you to the game? Did your parents play a key role in your golf? Has any golf instructor helped your game in a significant way?
on the golf course. His accomplishments in golf make it easy to trust what he tells me and his constant focus on confidence and mental toughness are just as, if not more, important than the technicalities of the golf swing.
I’ve played golf for as long as I can remember. There are pictures of me as a toddler swinging a plastic club in the backyard. I attended the Naval Academy Junior Golf Clinics as a kid too and started playing tournaments around the age of 10. My dad introduced me to the game. He’s about an 8 handicap and we used to play a lot during late summer evenings at Navy.
Many golfers remember when they “got bitten by the golf bug.” Do you have a particular time, experience or memory of when you fell in love with the game?
Two coaches have played a significant role in the development of my game. My high school coach, Pete Hiskey, and my swing coach, Sean English. Coach Pete has been a family friend since forever and he taught me just about everything I know about the game’s intricacies and the mental aspect of it all. Sean has been incredibly helpful in both my swing and my mentality
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
I don’t know if it was an exact moment that I fell in love with the game, but I know it’s got a hold of me and isn’t letting go. I was extremely competitive in all the sports I played growing up. When I found out I could play 9 holes and win a trophy for it, I realized that I should probably keep playing. What have been your recent achievements? For Loyola this spring, I have finished tied for 10th at the Pinehurst Intercollegiate, tied for 50th at the Middleburg Bank Intercollegiate at Kingsmill, tied for 11th at the
Bart George Amateur Interview 15 Share
“I don’t know if there was an exact moment when I fell in love with the game, but I know it’s got a hold of me and isn’t letting go”
River Landing Intercollegiate, and most recently tied for 8th at the Wolfpack Spring Open at NC State. Last summer I shot 67 to co-medal at the Washington Metropolitan Amateur at Columbia Country Club. As you look to the 2014 season, what goals have you set for yourself? The most important goal is a team victory at the Patriot League Tournament next week. I’ve been working hard to realize that goal and extend Loyola’s conference championship winning streak to seven consecutive titles. Individually, I hope to win the Patriot League tournament but I understand that winning is the end, not the means. I’ve sought to increase my mental toughness on the course and be the most confident player I can be every time I tee it up. If I can do that, the accomplishments will take care of themselves. Tell me about your tournament plans for 2014 and what events are you particularly excited about
playing in? Do you plan to try to qualify for any national championships this year? If we win the Patriot League Championship, we will get to play at NCAA Regionals, which is an unbelievable event and opportunity to play at the NCAA Finals. In the summer, I hope to qualify for the US Amateur and play some regional events including the Porter Cup and the Southern Amateur. I will be unable to play at the Maryland Amateur, but I’m looking forward to the Maryland Open at Lakewood in July. What do you consider is the strength of your game? Is there any aspect of your game which you are going to concentrate on improving in 2014? I consider myself a great driver of the golf ball. I’m probably too aggressive at times, but I hit my driver straighter than my 3-wood so I might as well bang it. Putting is always a focus of improvement, but I’ve really been working on my wedge play from inside 125 yards.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
16 Amateur Interview Bart George Share
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Bart George Amateur Interview 17 Share
For me, the mental aspect of the game is infinitely more important than my mechanics. Mentally, my only focus is trying to be the most confident I can be on every shot. The mental battle is always tough, and separation between the players that win and finish second is often about who believed in their game more. How much time do you dedicate a week for practice? How many rounds of golf during the golf season do you think you average in a week? Do you enjoy practice and if you had the choice, would you rather play or practice? During the school year, being an athlete is a full time responsibility. We have mandatory workouts and practice about 20 hours a week but I practice individually more often than that. There is obviously more time to practice and play in the summer and I get at least 4 non-tournament rounds in a week. It depends on the shape of my game. When I’m swinging well I’ll play more. If my mechanics need some work I’ll practice more. Have you played in the Maryland Amateur Championship before and if so, what is your best finish? I’ve played in two Maryland Amateurs with my best finish coming last year – I won one match. Can you remember the first time you participated in the Maryland Amateur? What were your thoughts on the Championship and the level of competition? I played my first Maryland Amateur at Congressional. I remember being a little overwhelmed at the caliber
of players in the field and the prestige of playing Congressional. I missed the cut by a shot. What golf tournament that you have played in did you most enjoy and why? My freshman year of college we played at the University of Georgia for NCAA Regionals. The field was amazing with some of the best players in the country and the tournament was run incredibly. Only ProV1’s were on the range and the course was in phenomenal condition. What is your favorite course that you have played and why did you enjoy it so much? My favorite course I’ve played was definitely Oakmont CC outside of Pittsburgh. Coach Pete invited me to play with a group of guys the year after the US Open was hosted. The greens were lightning fast and I remember being thrilled to play such a prestigious course. Breaking 80 was definitely a challenge that day. Competitive golf can be very stressful, especially when you are in the heat of competition with a chance to win. Are there any specific things you do to try to cope with the pressure when you are competing? For me, the easiest way to handle the pressure is to recall shots I’ve hit before. I generally do a good job of not getting mechanical on the course and focusing solely on my target but in the heat of tournament competition it can be tough at times. When I’m recalling shots, I have two different methods. For tee shots, I like to envision the third hole at the Naval Academy that sets up to hit a tight draw. For iron shots, I try to recall the best and most recent shot I’ve hit with that club. The recollection APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
18 Amateur Interview Bart George Share
“I recently decided that I am going to turn professional after graduating”
is usually from recent shot in a tournament, but it could be a range shot too.
flexibility. In season it’s a little less intense with similar training a couple of days of week dedicated to workouts.
Do you have someone that you use as a sounding board to talk about your success with or how you could improve your game?
Are you considering playing golf as a professional? What will be the major factors that will help you make that decision?
My two sounding boards are my golf coach, Chris Baloga, and my swing instructor, Sean English. Before and after tournaments I’m constantly in contact with them talking about my play and ways to improve. They both help me focus on the positives of every round and prepare for the next event.
I recently decided that I am going to turn professional after graduating. I have the support of my family and friends and I think I’d always regret it if I didn’t give it a chance. In a dream world, I’d be playing golf for a living so I might as well chase my dreams.
If you were given the opportunity this year to play on any two courses in the world, what courses would you choose and why? Augusta National is on top of my list without question. Masters week is by far my favorite golf week of the year and after going to the tournament a few years ago, I’d do anything to play it. Spanish Bay on the Monterey peninsula is the other course I’d want to play. It’s a little more under the radar than Pebble Beach with a links feel. If you were given the opportunity to play in a “dream foursome” with people from the past or present connected with the game of golf, who would they be and why? Arnold Palmer (in his prime) would tee off first because he’s The King, Jack Nicklaus (in his prime) would tee off second to show Tiger (teeing off third) that he’s still the man to beat, and I’d tee off third to show them all how to do it properly. Do you now have a consistent exercise program and if so, what does it entail? In the winter, the golf team has a consistent training program consisting mostly of weights, cardio, and MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Golfers are known for being superstitious. Do you have any superstitions that you are willing to share with us? I don’t have any consistent superstitions; if I notice I’m doing something that works, I’ll keep doing it until that luck changes. Right now I’ve been playing every round with a Mickey Mouse ballmarker that seems to be bringing some luck. Having a balanced life is something every one of us is conscious of in this day and age. Outside of golf, how do you spend your time and what other activities do you try to partake in? I enjoy spending as much time as I can off the course with friends and family. Coming from Annapolis, I like going boating on the Chesapeake and just hanging out. What is the best advice regarding golf that you have ever received? There are two quotes from famous coaches that I try to incorporate into golf and my life every day: “Believe deep down in your heart that you are destined to do great things” – Joe Paterno “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up” – Jim Valvano
Bart George Amateur Interview 19 Share
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
“Life is short. Go for it in two� Unknown
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
Call for Incredible Spring Trip Specials!
y a l P
Award-Winning Courses • Incredible Beaches • Historical Treasures • Coastal Dining
Carolina Club
Currituck Club
Kilmarlic
Nags Head
The Pointe
Plan Your Coastal Golf Vacation Today! • Custom-built Golf Packages for Groups of All Sizes Tailored to Every Need and Budget • Fall Stay & Play Packages Available
www.PlayOBXGolf.com • (800) 916-6244
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America
MSGA Hole in One Club
>> JOIN TODAY << Click here for the MSGA Hole-In-One Application
If you make a hole-in-one, and are a member of a MSGA member club you are eligible to become member of the
MSGA Hole-In-One Club!
Click here for US Golf Register, National Hole-in-One Registration
Click here to view the MSGA Hole-In-One Honor Roll
â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place this world is when one is playing golfâ&#x20AC;? Robert Lynd
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
26 Coaches Corner Ricky Serrano Share
Name: Ricky Serrano, PGA Member Club(s) / facilities where you teach: Cattail Creek Country Club PGA Professional since: 2000 and earned membership to the PGA of America in 2004.
Coaches Corner
Ricky Serrano Cattail Creek Country Club
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Ricky Serrano Coaches Corner 27 Share
What clubs are in your bag? Driver: Taylor Made SLDR 11.0 degree with an Oban Kiyoshi Shaft. Fairway Metals: Taylor Made Stage 2 17 degree with a Fujikura Fuel Shaft Hybrid: Taylor Made Stage 2 19 degree with a Fujikura Fuel shaft. Irons: Taylor Made Rocket Bladez 4-PW with Matrix Ozik Program Graphite Stiff Flex. Wedges: Taylor Made ATV 50, 56, and 60 degrees with Matrix Ozik Program Graphite Stiff Flex. Putter: Taylor Made Ghost Spider S 33 inches. What golf ball do you play? Taylor Made Tour Preferred
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
28 Coaches Corner Ricky Serrano Share
notable achievements • Class A PGA Member, Professional Golfers’ Association • Winner of 2006 Pro-Member Cattail Creek Country Club • Winner of 2005 Yamaha Tournament Series Pro-Am Falls Road Golf Course (score66) • Scholarship winner 2004 PGA Apprentice • Players Ability Test Medalist 1997 • Low Round 65 Cattail Creek Country Club Professional Accomplishments • US Kids Golf Certified Instructor • Attended Titleist Performance Institute Job Related Attributes and Skills • PGA Class A member in good standing. • Conducted numerous lessons, clinics, classes, and golf schoolscatering to players of all ages and abilities for nearly 20 years • US Kids Golf Certified Instructor • Taylor Made, Titleist, and Callaway certified club fitter.
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Ricky Serrano Coaches Corner 29 Share
Firstly, thank you the taking the time to do this interview with the Maryland State Golf Association. Let’s begin with asking you; what first drew you to the great game of golf? Can you describe when and how you fell in love with the game? I played soccer all my life and was an All- American at Montgomery College in Rockville, MD. I was invited to try out with the Baltimore Bays. All I ever wanted to do was to play soccer professionally. Ihad never thought about playing golf. At the age of 25, I was introduced to golf by my late friend, Len Farello. The first time he took me to the golf course I was hooked! The only thing I wanted to do was practice and play. I just couldn’t get enough. What age were you and what brought you to decide to pursue a career as a PGA professional? I always told myself that if I didn’t make it as a professional soccer player, I wanted to be a coach. I never thought I would become a golf coach. I took my first job as an Assistant Professional at RedGate Golf Course at the age of 28. Who were your inspirations as a young professional? Did this person(s) serve as a mentor to you and if so, how did he influence your professional development? I was fortunate to work for several successfulPGA Professionals throughout my career.Each brought different levels of skill to their respective facilities. They all gave me the opportunity, and guidance, to grow as a professional. I tried to take a little from each one along the way, and I owe them all many thanks for their support. Who were your biggest influences as a teacher? One of my biggest influence as a teacher was Lenny Farello. Lenny was a basketball coach at Coolidge High in Washington, DC,where he won several championships. He was inducted into their Hall of Fame. As a kid, I would go watch him practice and see his enthusiasm and his passion for teaching his players. This enabled me as an instructor and as a player. I learned a lot from watching other PGA Professionals and their dedication to the game. In your opinion, what skills and abilities are necessary to be a successful teacher and coach? I believe the most successful teachers and coaches possess three traits. • Passion for the game. • Knowledge of the game. • Ability to communicate effectively
I am sure many people out there think that as a PGA Professional you get to play round after round, week in and week out. Set the record straight and tell us how many rounds on average you get to play per week? As the Director of Instruction,it is important that I play with our members at least once a week during the golf season, my in-season schedule consists of a six-day work week, and one day off to catch up on things at home, or tee it up. I also play in MAPGA section tournaments on my days off, if my schedule permits. Can you tell us a little about your playing career and whether your professional responsibilities allow you to still participate in competitive play? I am fortunate that my job allows me to compete in many tournaments. I hope to continue to compete at a high level this coming season, and in the future, and am constantly working on my craft. I feel it makes me a better instructor and coach. What percentage of your day is spent teaching and approximately how many lessons do you conduct annually? I spend about 80 percent of my time teaching and conduct between 400-500 lessons/clinics per year. Do you derive greater personal gratification from playing a fine round of golf or seeing one of your pupil’s golf games really begin to improve? It is more gratifying to me when one of my students comes back to me and says they had their lowest round ever. That’s why I love to teach! What initiatives are you and your club doing to bring more players to the sport? As golf professionals we are always trying to grow the game. Last year we introduced Ladies Golf 101Clinics which are geared towards women who are new to the game of golf. Our mission was to make everyone feel welcome and less intimidated by the game. Over 20 ladies went through the Golf 101 Program which significantly increased our participation in women’s golf as a whole. We also sold the majority of these ladies new equipment, and one of the participants upgraded from a Social Membership to a Golf Membership, as a result of the Golf 101 initiative. Another initiative that our Head Golf Professional, Bob Wampler, and I introduced in 2013 was the “Junior Golf Academy.” This program was geared to the Junior who was interested in an all-encompassing coaching program throughout the summer which included private instruction, TPI Fitness training, participation in one of our Junior Golf Camps, and playing in some local
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
30 Coaches Corner Ricky Serrano Share
junior competitions. The program was met with rave reviews and we expect a sell out in 2014. At what age would you recommend parents introducing their children to golf and what advice would you offer parents for getting their youngsters to enjoy the game. Whether it is golf or any other sport I don’t think you can put an exact age on when to start a child playing. The child has to want to play. I suggest that a parent’s main objective be to support them and not to push them too hard, too soon. Can you describe your teaching philosophy and how you go about working with your pupils? My teaching philosophy is to stress the fundamentals (grip, alignment, posture). Without mastering the fundamentals, I believe you will never be able to reach your full potential as a golfer. Aside from the fundamentals, I do my best to relate golf to something else that my student is familiar with. I try to encourage all of my students to focus on their target on every swing, not on “hitting the ball.” Creating a “swing,” rather than a “hit,” is important to me. When you first begin working with someone, what are the things you focus on first and foremost? I conduct a brief interview to find out why it is they are seeking instruction. What are their strengths and weaknesses? Does the player have any physical limitations? And ultimately, what arethe student’s MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
goals? Once I establish those benchmarks, I check their fundamentals(grip, alignment, posture).Then, together, we can then set up an instructional plan to accomplish their goals. What advice would you offer to golfers to help them be better students when they take lessons? I would advise them to come to the lesson with an open mind and a willingness to learn. There are no shortcuts. With effort and dedication comes improvement. What advice would you offer to golfers to assist them in making their practice sessions be more productive? Does this change after someone takes a lesson? Manage your practice time wisely. It isn’t the quantity but the quality of your practice session. Since the majority of the game is played inside 100 yards, I recommend you practice on your wedge and short game. You will see your scores improve. When all of us what golf on television or go watch a professional tournament in person, what should we look for to help us with our games? I think the biggest thing you can take away from watching golf on television is how many strokes are saved from inside of 100 yards. There are a lot of amateur players who can hit the ball as well as the touring professionals. What separates the good from the elite is the ability to shave strokes off of your score around the greens.
Ricky Serrano Coaches Corner 31 Share
Your craft is constantly evolving due to the technological improvements of the game. What technologies are you utilizing to enhance your teaching methods? I currently use V1Pro Digital Coaching Software and a high speed four-camera system to best communicate to my students their progress. It is much easier to show my students the difference between “feel” and “real” with the use of video technology. I also use a FlightscopeLaunch Monitor and the SAM Puttlaband SAM Balance Board to assist my students with their game. Many golf instructors say that one of the most important skills golfers must develop to become better players is to become effective pitchers of the golf ball. What advice would you offer us to get better at this critical element of the game? I believe that to become a better pitcher of the golf ball, you must first analyze the lie of your ball and what obstacles might be between the ball and the hole. Secondly, you must visualize the shot you want to hit, and where you would like the ball to land. Lastly, you must rehearse the shot prior to executing it. Many instructors use drills to assist their students. Are you a big believer in drills and do you have any favorite drills that have helped your pupils?
What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that a PGA Professional faces in modern day golf? I think the biggest challenge is that golf is an expensive sport and very demanding on your time. The one positive to the time demands, is that we are starting to see a trend in people practicing more and playing less. People have a desire to improve. Many golfers in my generation were introduced to the golf game via caddies or by caddying themselves. This is not as common nowadays. If one of your members walked in your shoes for a day, what aspect of your job would surprise them the most? I think the physical demands. Long hours and the time away from your family would probably be the most surprising aspects to people.Also, being exposed to the elements such as the cold, heat, and rain are often overlooked.Often not having enough hours in the day to get other tasks completed. I think that a lot of people hear “Golf Pro” and think it is all fun and games. To be a great Golf Professional, it is a labor of love. You have to love what you do with a passion and you are expected to be an expert of all things golf. The “behind-thescenes” responsibilities of a Golf Professional are just as critical as being a good instructor.
I do use drills and one of my favorite drills is the’feet together’ drill. This drill enables students to work on their timing and centeredness of contact. APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
â&#x20AC;&#x153;What other people may find in poetry, I find in the flight of a good driveâ&#x20AC;? Arnold Palmer
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
Three incredible courses. Three nights. One amazing deal.
Starting at
$179
per golfer/per night
Group organizer plays free!
Play the course PGA TOUR pros ranked as their favorite, second only to Augusta National. —2012 Golf World survey Package includes:
• A round of golf at Harbour Town Golf Links, Heron Point by Pete Dye and Ocean Course • Three nights deluxe villa accommodations • Complimentary resort gift card • Complimentary afternoon replays at Heron Point & Ocean (based on availability) • And more! Package limited to groups of 12 or more. Terms and conditions apply.
almetto-Golfer-13.indd 1
Contact Chris Beck, Director of Golf Sales 843.842.1488 cbeck@seapines.com seapinesgolf.com
9/5/13 6:28 PM
34 Steve Mona National Golf Day – Social Media Campaign Share
Steve Mona
National Golf Day – Social Media Campaign By Steve Mona, CEO of World Golf Foundation
The seventh annual “National Golf Day” will be held Wednesday, May 21 on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.WE ARE GOLF will meet with Congress to share details about golf’s economic and charitable impact, diversity of small businesses, tax revenue creation, fitness benefits and environmental leadership. The industry supports nearly two million jobs and many others whose livelihoods depend on the game. For them, the #NGD14 social media campaign is an opportunity to join the conversation and share stories directly with political leaders. Last year, we reached over 7.2 million people. With your help, we believe the impact can be much larger this year. So what is our ask? During the month of May, we’d like you to post on your social media channels why golf is more than a game to you. Please use #NGD14 and tag@wearegolf. Our goal is to receive supportive messages from Congressional leaders, staffers, media, industry organizations and golf enthusiasts about National Golf Day. Again, social media users are asked to use #NGD14 and @wearegolf. Thank you for your support of National Golf Day.
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
National Golf Day – Social Media Campaign Steve Mona 35 Share
About Steve Mona Steve Mona became the World Golf Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in March 2008. Mona served as tournament director of the Northern California Golf Association from September 1980 to January 1982. He moved to assistant manager of press relations for the United States Golf Association from January 1982 to June 1983, at which time he became Executive Director of the Georgia State Golf Association. In November 1993, he became CEO of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. In 2013, Steve was named to Golf Inc.’s “Most Powerful People in Golf” for the 13th consecutive year and ranked above Nick Faldo and Annika Sorenstam. World Golf Foundation develops and supports initiatives that positively impact lives through the game of golf and its traditional values. Founded in 1993, The Foundation is supported by major international golf organizations and professional Tours, and provides oversight to World Golf Hall of Fame, The First Tee, GOLF 20/20 and other industry initiatives in support of its mission. For more information, visit www.worldgolffoundation.org.
@wearegolf APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
36 Steve Mona National Golf Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Social Media Campaign Share
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
National Golf Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Social Media Campaign Steve Mona 37 Share
www.wearegolf.org APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
Attention golfers and golf fans! The 2014 AT&T National, an exciting PGA TOUR event held at Congressional Country Club June 23-29th, needs you! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss your chance to be a vital part of one of the greatest sporting events in the Washington, D.C. area!
Sign up to volunteer today! With a variety of unique volunteer opportunities available there is a position for everyone! Each volunteer is asked to work at least three (3) half-day shifts during the tournament week. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss your chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at this great PGA TOUR event! Visit www.attnational.org to learn more about how you can become a member of the volunteer team for 2014!
Positions are limited and time is running out, so reserve your spot today!
40 on the green Caves Valley Share
on the greens with
Steve Glossinger Golf Course Manager, Caves Valley Golf Club
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Caves Valley on the green 41 Share
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
42 on the green Caves Valley Share
Name: Steve Glossinger, CGCS Title: Golf Course Manager Club: Caves Valley Golf Club Website: www.cavesvalley.net Address: 2910 Blendon Road, Owings Mills, Maryland 21117 Email: sglossinger@comcast.net Phone: 410-356-1317 Holes: 18 Par: 71 Yardage: Green: 7165 , Blue: 6714 , White: 6228, Red: 5265 Type: Private Established: 1991 Staff: 20 full time and 30 seasonal
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Caves Valley on the green 43 Share
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
44 on the green Caves Valley Share
Club Information Privately owned and managed, Caves Valley Golf Club is a Member-owned corporation. The course was designed by nationally acclaimed golf course architect Tom Fazio as “a golfer’s club,” Caves Valley is one of the few clubs in America focused solely on golf and golfer’s needs. The course became fully playable in July 1991. The course features 18 holes, each uniquely fashioned to suit the natural environment, as well as a comprehensive state-of-the-art practice facility which includes multiple practice ranges with sand bunkers, chipping greens and putting greens. The golf professional staff is highly regarded for their teaching expertise and their hospitality towards our Members and their guests. The Club has anestablished caddie program with a sufficient number of caddies to meet the needs of the Membership. An expansive clubhouse and accessory buildings incorporate all the expected services commensurate with a premier golfing facility. The Club dining room is ranked among the top restaurants in the area. The Chef prepares all food fresh daily and uses only the finest seasonal ingredients. The facilities include 33 overnight rooms in both the Clubhouse and five on-site Golf Cottages to accommodate overnight guests. Caves Valley is one of the finest private golf clubs in the country and was named one of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the United States by Golf Digest (September 2011).
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Caves Valley on the green 45 Share
Biography Most of my superintendent career has been spent in Michigan. It began 1976, at the Signal Point Golf Club in Niles and continued to Battle Creek Country Club in Battle Creek MI, Point O’Woods Golf & Country Club in Benton Harbor MI and Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills MI. I have been at Caves Valley Golf Club since 1996. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity tof hosting many diverse golf tournaments. Most notably, nine Western Amateur Championships, the 1996 U.S. Open Championship, the 2012 U.S. Senior Open Championship, a Men’s and Women’s NCAA Golf Championships, a Palmer Cup, and two Cannon Cups. We are currently preparing the inaugural LPGA International Crownmatch play competition scheduled for July 2127, 2014.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
46 on the green Caves Valley Share
“The 9th hole features a slightly up hill tee shot into a fairway with bunkers on the left and a meandering stream on the right and the approach shot is played into a small, well-guarded, two tier green” MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Caves Valley on the green 47 Share
Thank you for agreeing to share your thoughts with the Maryland State Golf Magazine. Before we start looking at the technical aspects of the course, can you tell us a little about where the course is situated and the local area surrounding it? Caves Valley is located within a thirty-five minute drive of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, between Owings Mills and Timonium. 962 acres of rolling hills, pastures, woods, and wetlands, situated amid the natural beauty of Maryland’s estate and hunt country, form a spectacular setting for the golf club, clubhouse, learning center and cottages. For those people who have never seen your course, please describe what they might experience when playing it for the first time? Accompanied by an experienced caddie, a round of golf at Caves Valley features both fescue surrounded risk-reward holes over water as well as classic tree lined holes that vary in undulation and vertical drop. In your opinion, how does this course rate in terms of playability and difficulty? Golfers will benefit from a course that is both challenging, yet fair. Each hole features teeing grounds that yield a course that golfers of all skill levels will enjoy. The fairways are generous in size, however a misplayed shot may find a strategically placed bunker.
The greens are moderate in size, however subtle undulations provide putts may require some advice from your caddie. Every course tends to have its signature holes, what are the most notable holes and which ones are the topics of most conversations for both players and superintendents? The course consists of many holes that could be considered “signature.” The most popular of such holes is number 9. It features a slightly up hill tee shot into a fairway with bunkers on the left and a meandering stream on the right. The approach shot is played into a small, well-guarded, two tier green. From the tee you also have a picturesque view of our signature and historic, farm era barn. Ok so let’s start digging a bit deeper into the way in which you and your team maintain the conditions that the course was designed for. Clearly the function of maintaining any golf course is critical to the success of a club, and to the enjoyment of those who play it. Unfortunately many see the role of the Green staff simply as “cutting the grass,” but there is so much more to it than that. Can you tell us what a typical day involves for you and your team? The day starts early! I begin meeting with the assistants and group leaders at 5:00 am to put our action plan into APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
48 on the green Caves Valley Share
motion. For our team, each day consists of routinely scheduled maintenance tasks such as mowing, rolling, course set-up, raking bunkers, spraying/ fertilizing specific areas, hand watering, scouting for pests, caring for the landscaping and flowers beds as well as maintaining an extensive equipment inventory. Additional unscheduled tasks that fit into a typical day include addressing tree issues, repairing the irrigation system components, storm clean-up, aerification, topdressing installing drainage systems, pond management and employee concerns.
of a “bath tub” effect after a heavy rain. To address this we have installed over 100 miles drainage pipes in the fairways and rough over the past 7 years.
What topography, soils and sub-soils typify your course, and what are the specific challenges that they pose you and your team?
The Mid-Atlantic geographic area is known as a very difficult area to grow grass, due the fact it’s too hot for cool season grasses and too cold for warm season grasses. What grasses are you currently maintaining for fairways and rough, and what are the problems or advantages associated with these grasses? If given the opportunity, which turf type would you prefer and what advantages are there for your choice?
Our greens are built to USGA specification and the tees and fairways feature sand based root zones. However, under the root zone in the fairways and rough is a dense clay/shale base. This creates a layer that inhibits downward water movement and creates somewhat
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
With the cost of golf course maintenance continuing to rise, what would you do if you had total authority to minimize costs? Without question I would minimize the cost of maintaining the bunkers. I would maintain the visually pleasing aspect of them, but reduce the playability aspect.
Caves Valley on the green 49 Share
We are preparing for the process of converting our Penncross greens to a new improved variety in 2015. We are pleased with the performance of our bentgrass tees and fairways. Our rough was originally established with bluegrass. However, improvements in the texture and playability of tall fescue make it the only choice for the rough. We have converted approximately 70% of our rough to tall fescue. What does your routine green management regime involve such techniques as aerification, verticutting and top dressing? Many golfers are frustrated when the greens are being worked on â&#x20AC;&#x201C; can you explain why it is necessary? A superintendent is always growing grass for the future, not the current day. Cultural practices such as core aerification and venting are vital for controlling organic matter, a cornerstone for healthy turfgrass. Golf courses that fall behind the build-up of organic matter will without question suffer down the road. It is
imperative to putcultural practices first and foremost. At Caves Valley, we aerify our greens and tees twice per year and annually aerify the fairways and the rough. In terms of topdressing, the tees and fairways are topdressed at least once per month and the greens more frequently. What grasses are used in your greens and what length of cut do you implement? Does this change throughout the year or for specific tournaments? Our Penncross bentgrass greens are cut at .125â&#x20AC;?, usually twice per day. Once, first thing in the morning and then again at noon, before the afternoon wave of golfers. We roll approximately 3-4 times per week. Do you hand mow greens or use riding mowers, and what stimpmeter speeds do you achieve? We hand mow our greens with specialized mowers that feature a flexing mower head that follows the contours
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
50 on the green Caves Valley Share
“We will soon be utilizing GPS guided spraying technology to improve accuracy when spraying pesticides”
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Caves Valley on the green 51 Share
of the green more effectively than the conventional fixed head. Our green speeds are between 11-12 on a daily basis. With such an important focus now on environmental stewardship, can you tell me what you are doing about sustainable methods of course management? Are you reducing fertilizer and water use? Being a steward of the environment is more than a phrase, it is a mindset. We take our impact on the environment very seriously and strive to reduce it. In terms of fertilizer application, our applicators are certified by the state and trained to utilize fertilization techniques that eliminate fertilizer runoff, misapplication, etc. We spoon- feed with soluble fertilizers to ensure rapid delivery of only the required amount of nutrients. Also, to preserve the heritage of this beautiful l and, substantial acreage has been deeded in perpetuity to the Maryland Environmental Trust, ensuring forever its protection from development. With the new emphasis in trying to make golf more fun, aside from the “Tee it Forward” program, what golf course protocols would you recommend that would help members enjoy the game more and lessen time to play? Do you believe in a hard and fast course concept which would require minimizing watering and perhaps creating some brown grass? Would your members accept a little brown grass for a hard and fast surface? Our clientele is primarily the corporate business golfer. They prefer firm and fast playing conditions. A little brown is acceptable as long as it contributes to the overall playability of the course. What are other ecology and biodiversity will a player enjoy at your course? We have a diverse variety of ponds, streams and wooded areas. Also, numerous views that span the property and surrounding valley contribute to a round of golf. It is not uncommon to see deer passing through the course or hear varied species of birds in the trees. How are technological enhancements impacting on the job? Are they helping productivity?
but you still have to “get your hands dirty”. These advancements compliment our maintenance tasks, not replace them. We collect data and monitor real time conditions within the root zones of our greens with sensors that measure soil moisture, salinity and temperature. Also, we used hand held soil moisture meters to identify areas that require hand watering. Are there any plans to further invest in technology or machinery at your course over the next 12 months? We will soon be utilizing GPS guided spraying technology to improve accuracy when spraying pesticides. Also, we are always experimenting with new plant growth products and fertilizer combinations. What training and development do you and your team benefit from? Is the focus on learning “on the job” or externally? Training new staff members and reinforcing correct techniques with veteran employees is part of our daily routine. Proper, efficient and most importantly safe operation is paramount. New employees are matched with an experienced employee until they have fully learned not only how to do their job, but also the layout of the course and maintenance facility, proper course etiquette, etc. What advice would you give to somebody considering a career as a superintendent? Being a superintendent is not for everyone, but it has unique benefits and it can be very rewarding. I would recommend interviewing multiple superintendents at different level courses to get first-hand knowledge of the job requirements, challenges, etc. Also, it would be beneficial to work on as many different courses as they can to gain a diverse experience base. And finally, what are your other interests, and what do you enjoy outside work? Outside of work I enjoy watching my daughters participate in track events and playing lacrosse. I regularly play golf at Caves as well as at other courses and I am on the Golf Digest panel for rating courses. Also, I am and avid Orioles and Ravens fan.
Advancements in technology help make some tasks more efficient or can yield additional information, APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Golf is 90% mental. The other 10% mentalâ&#x20AC;? Jim Flick
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
54 RULES REVISITED Rule 13-4: Full of Welcome Surprises Share
RULES REVISITED
Rule 13-4: Full of Welcome Surprises By Randal P. Reed, Director of Rules and Competitions of the Maryland State Golf Association
R
ule 13-4, which is entitled “Ball in Hazard; Prohibited Actions,” seems likely to be an unpleasantly restrictive Rule. However, further study of the fine print reveals that the Exceptions and Note sections are full of generous surprises. The central thrust of the rule is that if the player’s ball lies in a hazard or has been lifted from the hazard but may be dropped or placed in the hazard, the player is prohibited from (1) testing the condition of the hazard; (2) touching the ground in the hazard or water in a water hazard with his hand or club; or (3) touching or moving a loose impediment that is in the hazard. However, as long as the player does not test the condition of the hazard or improve the lie of his ball, there will not be a penalty if he “touches the ground or loose impediments in any hazard or water in a water hazard as a result of or to prevent falling, in removing an obstruction, in measuring or in marking the position of, retrieving, lifting, placing or replacing a ball under any Rule . . . “ Also, in a real surprise to most golfers, the player may place his clubs, indeed his entire bag, in a hazard. In recent years, the rules makers have become much more generous in permitting smoothing of sand or soil in hazards even when the ball lies in the hazard. This usually involves raking a bunker. Previous wording of Rule 13-4 resulted in some unusual penalty results when
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
the player or his caddie was often simply caring for the course or the ball had come to rest in another bunker. Now the player is permitted to smooth sand or soil in the hazard at any time provided this is done for the sole purpose of taking care of the course and the player does nothing to breach Rule 13-2 in connection with his next stroke. That is, the action must not improve the lie or position of the ball, the area of intended swing or stance, the line of play (or a reasonable extension of that line beyond the hole), or the area in which the ball is to be dropped or placed. Furthermore, once the ball comes to rest outside the hazard, even in another hazard, the player will not be penalized under Rule 13-4 for smoothing sand or soil or for testing in the hazard from which the stroke was played. In the Note to Rule 13-4, we find a very important set of surprise clarifications to the earlier “grounding the club in a hazard” prohibition. The Note states as follows: “At any time, including at address or in the backward movement of the club for the stroke, the player may touch, with a club or otherwise, any obstruction . . . or any grass, bush, tree or other growing thing.” For example, this means that the player may ground his club on a bridge over a hazard or even take practice swings where the club touches the bridge. This happened in a Senior Tour event several years ago when three-time
Rule 13-4: Full of Welcome Surprises RULES REVISITED 55 Share
major winner Larry Nelson played his second shot on a par five onto a bridge near the green. After asking a Rules official if he could ground his club and take practice swings on the bridge, Nelson proceeded to pitch the ball onto the green near the hole and hole his short birdie putt. The player may also take practice swings through grass in a hazard as long as he does not ground his club and does not improve the area of his intended swing or stance or line of play. Decision 13-4/8 advises that a club in tall grass is considered grounded in a water hazard when â&#x20AC;&#x153;the grass is compressed to the point where it will support the weight of the club.â&#x20AC;? Nevertheless, despite all these allowances, the player must be very careful when playing from a hazard. In the 2010 Heritage Classic played on Harbour Town Golf Links, Englishman Brian Davis was in a play-off with Jim Furyk when Davis ran afoul of Rule 13-4 in a greenside hazard on the 18th hole, the first play-off hole. In playing his ball from the hazard, Davis barely touched and moved a dry detached reed. Only Davis could see this and yet he reported the action to a Rules official with the result that the associated two-stroke penalty handed the victory to Furyk. Davis remarked that he got more good reviews for his actions in the loss than if he had won the tournament. Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
56 asgca Growing Golf through Par 3 Courses Share
asgca
Growing Golf through Par 3 Courses By Bill Amick, ASGCA Fellow
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Growing Golf through Par 3 Courses asgca 57
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America
Share
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
58 asgca Growing Golf through Par 3 Courses Share
E
ighteen-hole golf courses with a par 70-to-72 are great for millions of experienced golfers. For centuries, currently and in the future such layouts will fascinate to satisfy already avid participants. And let’s renovate where needed these courses to make them even more enjoyable to experienced golfers.
However from forward tees, these courses can seem overly demanding to beginning golfers. In the U.S. and most other countries where golf is a tradition, for more than a decade there has been a decrease in the total number of golfers. Trying to introduce people to golf on conventional-sized courses is not ideal in a sport vitally interested in increasing its popularity. Driving and practice ranges can be valuable for learning the game. These are places suitable for the giving of instruction and encouraging practice by any golfer to improve their shot making ability. Practice greens are fine for these for putting. Greens for practicing chips, pitches and shots from bunkers permit these essential aspects of golf to be improved. Yet together these are still not enough to get early players totally ready to venture out onto big courses filled with competent golfers. Par 3 Courses do allow learners to more comfortably complete their “elementary education in golf.” And these courses do this in a smaller area and at a much lower cost than can conventional golf courses. Plus the playing time is shorter. Where there is a sincere effort to gain golfers and the space is available, a Par 3 Course can be a highly useful vehicle in the desirable effort of more smoothly easing participants into our game. Some clubs and noted courses with an accompanying Par 3 Course include: • The Augusta National Golf Club. An annual one-day tournament is played and televised on its Par 3 Course the day before the start of the Masters Tournament. This fun course was designed by the late George Cobb, ASGCA. • The top-ranked Pine Valley Golf Club has a 10-hole short course co-designed by Tom Fazio, ASGCA. • The Peter Hay Course at Pebble Beach Golf Links is a short Par 3 Course open to the public with holes measuring from 61-to-104 yards. • Along with their 18-hole course, the Hamilton Farm Golf Club in New Jersey has a challenging Hickory Course. This Par 3 Course was also designed by Mike Hurdzan, ASGCA and Dana Fry, ASGCA. • Bandon Preserve is a 13-hole Par 3 Course overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Bandon, Oregon codesigned by Bill Coore, ASGCA. Bandon Dunes also has four full-sized 18-hole courses. • The Horse Course at The Prairie Club in Nebraska was designed by Gil Hanse, ASGCA and accompanies two 18-hole courses. • The Robert Trent Jones Trail in Alabama has Par 3 Courses at seven of its locations. The late Mr. Jones was a founding member of the ASGCA. Roger Rulewich, ASGCA, headed the design team for all of the courses of the RTJ Trail.
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Growing Golf through Par 3 Courses asgca 59 Share
Some of MAryland’s Par 3 courses • Severna Park Golf Center • Night Hawk Golf Center • Heritage Harbor Golf Club • Mitchell’s Golf Complex • Executive at Needwood GC • Paint Branch Golf Course • Mellomar Golf Park • Executive at Hog Neck GC • Liberty Road Golf Center • Harry Pitt course at Manor Country Club.
There is no fixed model for Par 3 Courses. Like any type of golf course, each Par 3 Course should be carefully designed to fit its site, budget and the skill level of who will play that course. These courses promote golf because they more closely fit the limits of learning golfers. These allow lots of practice with irons and the other aspects of the short game under playing conditions. Plus an accompanying range is great for the longer shots, including the driver. A practice putting green is where anyone can further practice all kinds of putts. If a new Par 3 Course cannot be completed in one step due to an initial limit in the available funding, there could be a first step. This would allow people to sooner hit tee shots during a round to obtain a score. It could be done using targets on grass kept like fairways, which would be much less expensive than starting by constructing and maintaining greens. Then later when greens could be afforded, the same layout could become a Par 3 Course. If there will be an accompanying range, the targets could be placed on the range’s fairway to provide a temporary course used alternately with the operation of the range. More Par 3 Courses along side big courses, as stand-alone courses or with a public range and practice greens are each good for the future popularity of golf. And the benefits can also go to the owners of new Par 3 Courses through satisfaction and success they obtain from their course’s operation.
For information about building a Par 3 or any type of golf course, contact Golf Course Architect Bill Amick by e-mailing him at amick@iag.net or calling (386) 767-1449.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
C h a r i t y 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.
62 Destination report 2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Share
Destination report
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Destination report 63 Share
Poipu Bay Golf Course, Kauai, Hawaii
As a general rule, golfers are prone to indulgence. Whether it’s splurging on this year’s newfangled, state-of-the-art driver, or insisting on playing those pricey Pro Vis, players aren’t afraid to test the limits of their budget when it comes to the guilty pleasures of the game. And when it comes to golf travel, there is no dearth of lavish choices. If you are seeking to aim high and mighty for this year’s golf trip, don’t miss these destinations, spread across the globe in different climates and settings. All offer their own unique brand of courses, resort amenities, cuisine and after-golf endeavors.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
64 Destination report 2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Share
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Destination report 65 Share
Premier Golf,
Scotland
Scotland Every golfer has a “bucket list.” They take great pride in completing it, and this fall there is a rare opportunity to scratch off two items: Attending a Ryder Cup and teeing it up on the hallowed grounds of Scotland. Since 1991, Premier Golf (www.PremierGolf. com) has been the licensed by the PGA of America as the sole provider of North American Ryder Cup travel packages. To date, they have sent more than 25,000 people to enjoy golf’s penultimate event. The matches return to the home of golf this year for the first time since 1973 when the PGA Centenary Course at the illustrious Gleneagles in Perthshire plays host. Premier Golf offers eight exclusive Ryder Cup experiences, starting at $3,700 per person.
Packages include five-night accommodations, welcome receptions, full Scottish breakfast daily, Ryder Cup tournament badges, ground transportation, gifts and all taxes. If you bring your clubs – and why wouldn’t you? – “a la carte” rounds at iconic courses like St. Andrews, Kingbarns, The Torrance or The Duke’s, are available. The expert Premier Golf staff takes away the stress and hassle of booking tee times and delivers on-site assistance, transfers to and from the course and more. For information, visit www.PremierGolf.com or call 800-283-GOLF.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
66 Destination report 2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Share
Canadian Rockies Golfers looking for an international experience without leaving North America have their eyes set on the Western Canadian Rockies. Located in the Alberta province (just north of Montana), its Calgary International Airport offers a wealth of reasonably priced flight options from Baltimore/Washington International (BWI). Six of the region’s best golf courses have banded under one brand – Canadian Rockies Golf, making it easy to plan customized stay-and-play experiences. Among them are sister properties The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and The Fairmont Banff Springs, ranked nos. 1 and 2 among all golf resorts in Canada. Visited by royalty, the properties are the perfect launching pad for a weeklong stay. Combine accommodations
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
and golf at both locations, and then add in rounds at any of three Canmore-based courses at Silvertip Resort, Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club and Canmore Golf & Curling Club, all within easy driving distance of Banff. The collection balances valley golf near green-blue glacier lakes and rivers with undulating mountain tracks in high elevations. All promote breathtaking views of wildlife, mountain ranges and pure nature. Combine golf with a helicopter tour, mountain biking, river rafting, fly fishing, and many other outdoor adventures. Steak lovers should not miss a chance to enjoy Prime Alberta Beef from Silvertip’s Rustica Steakhouse or Banff’s Saltlik. For more information visit www. canadianrockiesgolf.net or call 855-835-8484.
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Destination report 67 Share
Fairmont Jasper Park , Canada
Canmore Golf, Canada
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
68 Destination report 2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Share
Puakea Golf Course, Kauai, Hawaii
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014 Luxury Golf Destinations Destination report 69 Share
Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, Hawaii More than 3,000 miles from Alberta in the middle of the Pacific sits the tropical and lush island of Kauai. While “The Garden Isle” is the oldest of the main Hawaii islands, the golf-resort offerings have all completed dramatic enhancements within the last two years, offering an unmatched collection of five highly decorated courses. On the renowned North Shore, Princeville Makai Golf Club and The Prince Course at Princeville Golf Club is a pair of Robert Trent Jones, Jr. masterpieces that are also two of the highest ranking courses in golf-rich Hawaii by multiple national golf publications. On the island’s southern region, three more gems are situated within a 30-minute ride of each other. Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, named one of the “World’s Most Beautiful Golf
Courses” by MSN Travel, features the longest continuous stretch of oceans holes in Hawaii following a renovation that was completed in 2011. Puakea Golf Course, which is consistently rated a favorite among Kauai locals and guests alike, is set at the base of the towering Mount Ha’upu and plays through deep ravines, crosses mountain-fed streams and reveals views of the ocean. Speaking of the Pacific, Poipu Bay Golf Course – the former home of the PGA Grand Slam of Golf – is famous for its dramatic stretch of four closing holes that play atop a 150-foot sea cliff and boasts jaw-dropping views. For more information visit www.gohawaii.com/ kauai/experiences/golf or call 800.262.1400.
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
70 State News Jean Mulcahey Named to USGA Women’s Committee
Randy Reed (left) and Jean Mulcahey (right) at the USGA Annual Meeting
Share
State News
Jean Mulcahey Named to USGA Women’s Committee
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Jean Mulcahey Named to USGA Women’s Committee State News 71 Share
Jean Mulcahey, Chairman of the Rules Committee of the Women’s Division of the Maryland State Golf Association, was introduced as the newest member of the highly esteemed Women’s Committee of the United States Golf Association at the organization’s Annual Meeting at Pinehurst Resort on Saturday, February 8. The Women’s Committee plays a major role in each of the six USGA women’s championships as well as the Curtis Cup. Jean served for eight years on the Executive Committee of the Women’s Division and is now a Member of the Executive Committee of the Middle Atlantic Golf Association. Prior to her move to the Women’s Committee, Mulcahey was a Member of the Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship Committee. She has worked as a Rules Official at many USGA championships, including the Women’s Open, Open, Women’s Amateur, Senior Open and Women’s Mid-Amateur. In 2011, Mulcahey recorded a perfect 100 score on the rigorous PGA/ USGA Rules of Golf Exam. Jean joins fellow Marylander Stacey Collins on the Women’s Committee. Collins has served on the Committee since 2008 and is currently the Vice-Chairman. Prior to joining the Women’s Committee, she was a Member of the Senior Women’s Championship Committee. Stacey is a Past President of both the Women’s Golf Association of Baltimore and the Women’s Division of the Maryland State Golf Association. She served as a Rules Official at the 2013 United States Open at Merion Golf Club. Collins and Mulcahey were preceded on the Women’s Committee by Marylanders Tinker Sanger and Pat Kaufman. Sanger served for many years on the Girls Junior Championship Committee and was a recipient of the USGA’s Ike Grainger Award for 25 years of service on a USGA Committee. Kaufman was the first President of the Women’s Division of the Maryland State Golf Association and is also a Past President of the Women’s District of Columbia Golf Association. She served for several years on the USGA Women’s Mid-Amateur Committee as well as on the USGA Executive Committee from 2008 – 2011. Sanger and Kaufman worked as Rules Officials at numerous USGA Championships. Retiring from the Women’s Committee at the Annual Meeting was one of the most distinguished women in American Golf, Martha Wilkinson Kirouac. After winning the 1970 US Women’s Amateur, she then played on the 1970 and 1972 Curtis Cup Team. Kirouac also captained the 2004 Curtis Cup Team. After many years of involvement with Handicap Services on the Georgia State Golf Association staff, she is now Executive Director of the organization. In addition to Mulcahey and Collins, other members of the 2014 Women’s Committee are Chairman Dot Paluck (Bernardsville, NJ), Barbara Barrow (San Diego, CA), Lew Ellen Erickson (Tulsa, OK), Sarah Haas (Carterville, IL), Judi Lorenzen (Marana, AZ), Pat McKamey (Broken Arrow, OK), Pam Murray (Richardson, TX), Courtney Myhrum (Pittsburgh, PA), Delia Nava (The Woodlands, TX), Mandy Rasmussen (Gearhart, OR), Kathryn Washburn (Mill Valley, CA) and Melinda Zamzow (Reno, NV). APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
72 2014’s Best New Equipment Share
Spring Into Action with
2014’s Best New Equipment This winter has been harder on golfers than any in a long time, as the snow just refused tolet up. But get ready because green grass, sunny days and perfectly struck shots are on the way. Before you hit the first tee, shore up your game with the latest equipment that has the industry buzzing. These productsrange fromhi-tech gadgets and performance-enhancing gear to the latest in cutting-edge apparel.
Let’s begin at the bottom. That means footwear. You need to have secure traction to maximize power in your swing. Professionals recommend you change your spikes every 10 rounds. The most popular spike brand used by PGA Tour playersis CHAMP (www.champspikes.com), whose industry-leading models have been worn by the last 11 Masters champions. Our favorite is Zarma, which uses a unique three layer design to ensure maximum grip, comfort and stability. If a new pair of shoes is in order to start the season, combine form and function with the latest from ECCO (www.eccousa.com). The pioneer in hybrid footwear, made famous by Fred Couples, has done it again with the Street EVO One. It features a slightly wider rear construction, designed to wrap around a player’s heel for a more stable platform to power through each shot.
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014’s Best New Equipment 73 Share
Keep your feet fresh and blister-free with Made-in-the-USAKENTWOOL socks (www. kentwoolsocks.com). Worn by Bubba Watson, Matt Kuchar and many others, these comfortable socksuse a proprietary blend of fibers for superior moisture management and odor control. The new KW Series Pro-Light and Sport designsinclude a new blend of 50% superfine merino wool and 50% bamboo for increased moisture wicking, durability and a softer feel.
As we’ve unfortunately experienced, weather isn’t guaranteed to cooperate with your golfing desires. Should storm clouds gather, there is no better protection than Galvin Green (www.GalvinGreen. com) outerwear.New for 2014, the Aron jacket is totally waterproof and guaranteed to keep you dry. Sporting an ideal combination of light weight weather protection and extreme breathability, the garment promotes the release of excess heat and moisture for ultimate comfort. Specifically styled to provide a perfect fit and freedom of movement, the jacket is extremely durable and hard-wearing. APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
74 2014’s Best New Equipment Share
Secure your connection with the club by removing worn grips and installing new ones. Breaking the mold is the Secret Grip (www.SecretGrip.com), which uses heavier weight (92 grams) to raise the club’s balance point, promoting greater consistency, ball speed and accuracy. This technology was employed by Jack Nicklaus, propelling him to a record 18 major championship victories. With the company’s “no-risk” promotion, you have 30 days to try the product (minimum six) and if not completely satisfied they will send you a set of any grips you prefer.
Technological advancements have surged over the last 10 years, helping golfers play better and have more fun. SwingSmart (www.swingsmart.com) is an amazingly simple new device that records key swing data (tempo, swing speed, face angle, club path, etc.) for detailed analysis. A small, lightweight Bluetooth-enabled sensor module clips to the club shaft and instantly relays statistics to an iOS or Android device.Save your best swings for future reference and comparison. The app also presents a detailed 3-D view of the swing, so players can check position at any point during the motion..
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014’s Best New Equipment 75 Share
Another method to game improvement comes via a unique approach from the legendary Gary Player. His hallmark approach to fitness and mental toughness are incorporated into his new “Gary Player: A Game for Life” DVD series (www. AGameForLife.com). The Black Knightshares previously-untold tips on turning three shots into two on every hole,sand play, efficient practice, short game, course management and fitness for a roadmap to lowering your handicap.
Confusion can rein with so many great products available to you. Have premium golf, lifestyle and nutritional items delivered to your door every month by subscribing to BirdieBox (www.BirdieBox.com). The popular‘discovery retail’ subscription service canvasses the marketplace for the hottest gear and custom curates a surprise package. Retail value of each monthly box exceeds $100, yet costs only $41.65 -$45 per month (1, 3, 6, 12 month options), an unbeatable deal. Special seasonalboxes are offered for major golf events, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and the holidays. APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division Initiates New Handicap Policy for 2014
The Executive Committee of the MSGA-Women’s Division (MSGA-WD) will introduce a new handicap policy for tournaments beginning in 2014. The purpose of this new policy is to better define an “up-to-date USGA Handicap”, which appears on all MSGA-WD entry forms as well as create a more level playing field in our events. The guidelines are as follows:
• To be eligible for a tournament, you must have 20 scores posted within the last 12 months.*(Example: The Women’s Mid-Amateur entries open on May 9, 2014 therefore you must have at least 20 scores dating back to May 9, 2013.) • You are responsible for posting your score and must use a “T” (tournament score). Failure to do this can result in denial of a tournament entry.
*Please note this policy will be implemented for all events except the Women’s Team Championship. Any questions can be directed to the MSGA-WD at 410-653-5300.
78 State News 2014 Schedule of Events Share
MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION
Emich House 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite 145, Baltimore, MD 21208 www.msga.org
2014 Schedule of Events
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
2014 Schedule of Events State News 79 Share
Men’s Championships Team Championship
April 6-12-13-19-26-27
Various Clubs
Pro-Amateur
Wednesday, April 23
Norbeck
Four-Ball
Tuesday, April 29
Lake Presidential
Amateur/Open Pre-Qualifying
Monday, May 5 Tuesday, May 6 Wednesday, May 21
Suburban Worthington Manor Andrews AFB
Senior Four-Ball
Tuesday, May 27
Lakewood
Maryland Amateur
Thurs. – Sun., June 5 – 8
Baltimore CC – East Course
Junior Boy’s
Mon. – Tues., June 23 – 24
University of Maryland
Maryland Open
Mon. – Wed., July 14 – 16
Lakewood
Amateur Public Links
Thursday, July 24
Greystone
Father-Son
Tuesday, July 29
Hunt Valley
Mid-Amateur
Mon. – Tues., August 11 – 12
Montgomery
Senior Team Championship
September 6-13-14-20-21
Various Clubs
Senior Amateur
Mon. – Tues., September 8 – 9
Musket Ridge
Senior Open
Mon. – Tues., October 13 – 14
Elkridge
Invitationals Mid-Atlantic Junior Invitational
Friday, July 25
Turf Valley
BW Junior Team Matches
Saturday, August 23
Caves Valley
BW Team Matches
Saturday, September 6
Congressional
Past Presidents
Tuesday, September 23
Chevy Chase
USGA State Team
Sept. 30 – Oct. 2
French Lick (Indiana)
Senior Team Challenge Match
Thursday, October 2
Manasquan River (New Jersey)
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
80 State News 2014 Schedule of Events Share
MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION
Emich House 1777 Reisterstown Road, Suite 145, Baltimore, MD 21208 www.msga.org
USGA Qualifying Events US Open Local
Tuesday, May 13
Crofton
US Amateur
Monday, July 7
Woodholme
US Senior Amateur
Tuesday, August 19
Kenwood
US Four-Ball
Monday, October 20
Argyle
MSGA One-Day Four-Ball Events Thursday, April 17
Towson
Thursday, May 22
Rolling Road
Tuesday, June 24
Argyle Country Club
Wednesday, July 9
Norbeck
Monday, August 4
CC at Woodmore
Thursday, October 16
Suburban
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
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
82 State News MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION WOMEN’S DIVISION Share
MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION WOMEN’S DIVISION
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America
2014 Schedule of Events
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION WOMEN’S DIVISION State News 83 Share
2014 Tournament Schedule Team Matches
April 26, May 3, 10, 17, and 18
Various Clubs
Women’s Mid-Amateur
Thursday – Friday, June 5-6
Montgomery CC
Junior Girls
Wednesday – Thursday, June 18-19
Montgomery Village GC
Poindexter Cup
Friday – Sunday, June 27-29
River Marsh GC
Women’s Amateur
Monday – Thursday, July 14-17
Chartwell G&CC
4 Lady Invitational
Monday, July 28
Old South CC
Mixed Two-Ball
Friday, August 1 Lake Presidential GC
Lake Presidential GC
Two-Woman Mid-Handicap
Friday, August 8
Musket Ridge GC
Women’s Senior
Monday-Tuesday, September 15-16
Maryland National GC
Two-Woman
Tuesday, September 30
Four Streams GC
Women’s Open
Monday – Tuesday, October 20-21
Congressional CC
USGA Qualifiers US Women’s Open Sectional
Monday, May 19
Hermitage CC (VA)
US Women’s APL
Thursday, May 29
Laurel Hill GC (VA)
US Girls’ Junior
Tuesday, July 1
CC of Virginia (VA)
US Women’s Amateur
Thursday, July 10
Four Streams GC
US Women’s Mid-Amateur
Monday, July 21
Bayville GC (VA)
US Women’s Senior
Wednesday, August 20
CC at Woodmore
US Women’s Four-Ball
US Women’s Four-Ball
Bent Creek CC (PA)
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Golf is a good walk spoiledâ&#x20AC;? Mark Twain
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
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
86 MSGA OFFER Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA Partnership Share
MSGA OFFER
Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA 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. Since then, the program has evolved and partnerships were formed. Initially it was the Middle Atlantic PGA that 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. Then for 2013, the MSGA announced its newest partnership, with the Victory Golf Pass. The Victory Golf Pass was created by PGA Professional Andy Barbin, owner of Chesapeake Bay Golf Club in Northeast Maryland. Barbin has 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 clubs, as well as introduce new players. “We know our members love the program, but as a PGA member, I know the program must work for the clubs too,” said Barbin. MSGA Patron Member Program MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
Coordinator David Norman agrees, “We have enjoyed working with Andy, and our focus is growing the game. That means more rounds for Maryland clubs and a better golfing experience for Maryland golfers.” 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’s suggestions for participating clubs this year will bring some new features.
• Off-season promotions – golf is a year round sport! • Special added-value discounts for seniors – they are loyal and have time for golf – also Military (Hero) discounts • Good pricing – make it attractive and strive for incremental rounds • Special promotions for junior build business now and for the future
Barbin and Norman have teamed up to recruit the clubs and keep excellent value for golfers, while bringing business to the clubs. The new lineup of courses will be announced soon, in time for ordering the perfect holiday gift for that special golfer in your family. 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!
Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA Partnership MSGA OFFER 87 Share
The beautiful Musket ridge, just one of the outstanding courses available
Dont miss your opportunity to play on some of the finest courses in the area click here to join APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
88 MSGA OFFER Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA Partnership Share
2014 Participating Golf Facilities Maryland Golf Facilities (82)
Bay Hills Golf Club Beaver Creek Country Club Blue Heron Golf Course Blue Mash Golf Club (GOLD) Bulle Rock (GOLD) Caroline Golf Club Carroll Park Golf Course Chesapeake Bay Golf Club at North East Chesapeake Bay Golf Club at Rising Sun Chesapeake Hills Golf Club Clearview at Horn’s Point Golf Club Clifton Park Golf Course Clustered Spires Golf Club Compass Pointe Golf Courses Cross Creek Golf Club Cumberland Country Club Deer Run Golf Club Eagle’s Landing Eisenhower Golf Course Enterprise Golf Course Exton Golf Course Fairway Hills Golf Club Forest Park Golf Course Furnace Bay Golf Club Geneva Farm Golf Course Glade Valley Golf Club GlenRiddle Golf Club - Man O’War (SILVER) Great Hope Golf Course Green Hill Country Club Harbourtowne Golf Resort Henson Creek Golf Club Hog Neck Golf Course Hollow Creek Golf Club Horse Bridge Golf Club Lake Presidential (GOLD/SILVER) Links at Lighthouse Sound Maple Run Golf Club Maplehurst Country Club Marlton Golf Club
Delaware Golf Facilities (24)
Back Creek Golf Club Bayside Resort Golf Club (GOLD) Baywood Greens Golf Club Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club (SILVER) Deerfield Delcastle Golf Club Ed Oliver Golf Club Frog Hollow Golf & Swim Club Garrisons Lake Golf Club Heritage Shores Club Hooper’s Landing Golf Course
Washington, DC Golf Facilities (3) East Potomac Golf Course Langston Golf Course
Maryland National Golf Club McDaniel College Golf Club Mount Pleasant Golf Course Mountain Branch Musket Ridge Golf Club (SILVER) Nutters Crossing Oakland Golf Club Ocean City Golf Club Newport Bay Course Ocean City Golf Club Seaside Course Ocean Pines Golf & Country Club Ocean Resorts Golf Club P.B. Dye Golf Course Paint Branch Golf Course Patuxent Greens Golf Club Pine Ridge Golf Course Queenstown Harbor - Lakes Course Queenstown Harbor - River Course (GOLD) Red Gate Golf Course Renditions Golf Course River House Golf River Marsh Golf Club River Run Golf Club Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort Ruggles Golf Course Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links Swan Point Yacht & Country Club The Bay Club Golf Course East The Bay Club Golf Course West The Links at Challedon Twin Shields Golf Club University of Maryland Golf Course Waverly Woods Golf Club West Winds Golf Club Westminster National Golf Course Wetlands Golf Club Whiskey Creek Golf Club (GOLD) White Plains Golf Course Worthington Manor Golf Club Plus 5 Driving Ranges
The Maryland State Golf Association presents its
2014 MSGA Patron Member Program
Newark Country Club Odessa National Golf Club Rock Manor Salt Pond Golf Club Sussex Pines Country Club The Peninsula Golf & Country Club The Rookery North The Rookery South White Clay Creek Country Club (SILVER) Wild Quail Golf & Country Club Plus 3 Driving Ranges
Rock Creek Golf Course
Plus: 171
Facilities in Pennsylvania 48 Facilities in New Jersey 14 Facilities in Virginia 2 Bonus Facilities in West Virginia
Visit www.msga.org for details on all offers.
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
#1
Program
Officially Partnered with the Victory Golf Pass!
Play the best courses in the Mid-Atlantic!
Victory Golf Pass and the MSGA Partnership MSGA OFFER 89 Share
MSGA Patron Member Privileges
Patron Level: Victory $55, eClub $90* Patron Couple: Victory $100, eClub $150*
Receive a 2014 Victory Golf Pass entitling you to special deals at over 300 of the finest golf facilities in Member bag tag; Victory Golf Pass with information on all the courses; and subscription to the MSGA e-newsletter. Patron Couples receive all the amenities listed above, plus an additional Victory Golf Pass and MSGA bag tag.
MSGA Patron Member Program In partnership with
Membership Level Junior (up to age 18): Patron: Patron Couple: Silver: Silver Couple: Gold:
Silver: Victory $150, eClub $185* Silver Couple: Victory $200, eClub $250* Receive all Patron Member privileges, plus special
Glen Riddle, Bear Trap Dunes, and White Clay Creek in Wilmington, DE, including complimentary greens fees for a fee which includes cart. All Silver Members will commitment to supporting golf in Maryland. Silver additional bag tag and Victory Golf Pass.
Gold: $500, includes eClub*
Receive all of the Patron and Silver Member privileges, plus three additional Victory Golf Passes (four in all), and clients. Also included are complimentary greens fee on six great courses: Bulle Rock, Whiskey Creek, Lake Presidential, Queenstown Harbor River Course, Blue Mash, and Bayside Resort. Gold Members also receive a special Gold special recognition on the MSGA web site.
*
Handicap service and tournament eligibility for MSGA tournaments and play days.
with eClub $40* $90* $150* $185* $250* included
*includes eClub membership with USGA handicap service and eligibility for MSGA tournaments and Play Days
Junior: Victory $30, eClub $40*
Junior Members age 18 and under receive all the of Patron Members. Student Members under age 17 must be accompanied by an adult when using the Victory Pass.
Victory Only $30 $55 $100 $150 $200 $500*
Name ______________________________________________________ (First / Middle Initial / Last) Please Print
Spouse’s First Name______________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________ City ______________________________ State______ Zip __________ Daytime Phone # _______________________________________________ Email Address _________________________________________________ Club Type:
Private Public Golf League None
Club Name ___________________________________________________
me at
_____________________________________________________
Method of Payment Register online at www.msga.org (or by fax or mail)
Visa MasterCard Check Name on Card _________________________________________________ Credit Card No._________________________________________________ Expiration Date __________________________ Security Code ____________ (Last three digits on back of card)
Signature ____________________________________________________ Checks should be made payable to the Maryland State Golf Association. Please allow 20 days for delivery. Only one membership per person. Membership privileges may be suspended if the terms on the program are violated. If you have any questions, call the MSGA at (410) 653-5300 or visit our web site at www.msga.org. There will be a $35 charge for returned checks and a fee of $25 to replace a lost Victory Golf Pass.
Mail your completed application to: Maryland State Golf Association Suite 145, Commercentre East 1777 Reisterstown Road Baltimore, MD 21208
Or fax your completed application to: (410) 653-8810 Or sign up online at www.msga.org
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
90 MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION HISTORY Share
FOUNDING OF THE MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION
Photo by Montana Pritchard / The PGA of America
by Randal P. Reed, Director of Rules and Competitions of the Maryland State Golf Association
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
T
he Maryland State Golf Association functions as the primary voice of the United States Golf Association lls its constitutional mandate by promoting the best interests and true spirit of the game of golf as embodied in its ancient and honorable traditions; sponsoring and conducting state championship tournaments as well as USGA qualifying rounds each year; educating and informing Maryland golfers about changes in the Rules of Golf; providing course rating and handicap services to member clubs; fostering respect for the game of golf as well as its rules; and awarding scholarships. The following article was compiled and written by Randal P. Reed, MSGA Director of Rules & Competitions and describes the circumstances surrounding the founding of the MSGA.
HISTORY MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION
91
Share
Our tournament schedule now consists of some ers
APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
92 MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION History Share
One hundred thirty-three years old, 123 years in the same ng history. Phot Ph hoto otto byy Flo o oyd yd Lan a kf kfor kfor ord IIIII III
THE FIRST FOURTEEN CLUBS The Maryland State Golf Association was founded during a meeting at the Emerson Hotel in Baltimore on March 8, 1921. The founding clubs, which were said to represent 8,000 state golfers, were as follows: • Baltimore Country Club • Hagerstown Country Club • Maryland Country Club • Cumberland Country Club • Rolling Road Golf Club • Tome Golf Club • Green Spring Valley Hunt Club • Sherwood Forest Golf Club • Suburban Club • Naval Academy Golf Club • Elkridge Hunt Club • Talbot Country Club • Public Parks Golf Association • Monterey Country Club
MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
The Public Parks Golf Association was comprised of golfers at Clifton Park in Baltimore City. This Association had been organized during meetings in January, 1921 with William F. rst president. Located near Antietam Creek and in the general area of the current Hagerstown Municipal Golf Course, the nine-hole Hagerstown Country Club operated from 1908 – 1928, closing about four years after the opening of Fountain Head Country Club on the other side of town. Tome Golf Club was a prep school golf club in Port Deposit. The school overlooked the Susquehanna River and later moved to Northeast. Maryland Country Club, founded in the early 1900s near the Suburban Club, eventually met its demise during the Great Depression. The Washington Area clubs – Chevy Chase, Columbia, Bannockburn and Kirkside – declined to join the association because of their involvement with the Middle Atlantic Golf Association and District of Columbia Golf Association and also due to impending obligations to assist with the national open championship at Columbia Country Club.
History MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION 93 Share
CAPITAL EXPANSION As an aside, nine Washington Area clubs did join the MSGA in the early 1930s: Chevy Chase, Columbia, Burning Tree, Bannockburn, Indian Spring, Manor, Beaver Dam, Congressional and Kenwood. Bannockburn, originally located near Chevy Chase Circle (Connecticut Avenue and East-West Highway) moved to the Glen Echo area around 1910 and then was sold for residential development in 1946. Kirkside continued as the successor club to Bannockburn at the Chevy Chase Circle location. Indian Spring, which would later move to Layhill Road north of Georgia Avenue, was then located near the Four Corners area of Colesville Road and New Hampshire Avenue. Indian Spring closed in December, 2005. Beaver Dam in Landover later became Prince Georges Country Club and then, shortly after a move to Mitchellville in the early 1980s, was renamed the Country Club at Woodmore. Monterey Country Club, less than one mile from the Mason-Dixon Line in Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania, is a particularly interest case of a founding member club. Monterey had one of the oldest golf courses in the country. Located approximately eight miles from Camp David and built prior to 1885, the club featured a wide range of recreational and dining facilities that were popular among Washington area visitors. In addition to golf, the sports of tennis and swimming were featured. Over the years, visitors included Presidents Wilson, Coolidge and Eisenhower. The eventual Duchess of Windsor, Wallace rst green in Square Cottage. After the Battle of Gettysburg, the Army of Northern Virginia retreated through a swampy area that eventually became the site of Monterey Country Club.
OUR EARLY LEADERS cers of the Maryland State Golf Association were M. Tyson Ellicott, Baltimore Country Club, president; rst vice-president; R. Marsden Smith, Rolling Road Golf Club, second vicepresident; and Claude C. Madison, secretary-treasurer. Lieutenant F.L. Janeway of the Naval Academy Golf Club fth member of the Executive Committee. Originally, the 1921 Amateur Championship was scheduled for Rolling Road Golf Club and the Open Championship
at Baltimore Country Club. Later the Open was moved to Rolling Road and the Women’s Championship was rst there was discussion of a Baltimore City Championship to be conducted by the new state golf association. However, this initiative was soon undertaken by the Public Parks Golf Association at Clifton Park.
ORIGIN OF THE STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Based on Baltimore Sun reporting by Claude C. Madison, among the spurs to the formation of the Maryland State Golf Association was the exhibition match between Harry Vardon, Ted Ray and B. Warren Corkran at Baltimore Country Club during the summer of 1920. The year of 1920 marked Vardon’s last trip to the United States while Ray captured his sole U.S. Open Championship at the Inverness Club in August, 1920, where he edged Vardon, Leo Diegel and Jock Hutchinson by one stroke, with the 50-year old Vardon going six over par in the last six holes. The temporary chairman of the Maryland players who called for a state golf association was R.E. Hanson. Hanson sent the invitations for the organization meeting that was held at the Emerson Hotel. In the March 9, 1921 Baltimore Sun, Claude Madison reported that “R.E. Hanson, who fostered and originated the idea of a State golf association, was lauded in a resolution unanimously adopted, which expressed appreciation of his orts to advance the game in Maryland. Hanson recently removed to New York.” Golf developments in Maryland even attracted the interest of Grantland Rice, the foremost sportswriter of the era. In ered the following remarks: “The movement to form a State golf association should be supported by every golfer in Maryland. Golf is now on the way to an even-greater boom and the golf courses and players of Maryland occupy too high a place to remain outside the fold. The fact that the national open championship is to be held at Columbia Country Club will bring additional attention to Maryland golf. There is no question that a State association can do a lot for the game, and at the same time the players get a lot of keen competition out of the organization.” Interestingly, there was spirited competition for the hosting rst championships. Representatives of Maryland Country Club, Rolling Road Golf Club and the Suburban Club were quite expressive in promoting their clubs. APRIL 2014 | MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE
94 MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION History Share
Baltimore Country Club is widely recognized as one of the top 50 country clubs in the nation R. Marsden Smith, green committee chairman at Rolling Road Golf Club weighed in: “We think we can show the golfers of the State something unique in golf construction. Our course is adequate in every respect for entertaining the championship. The only possible objection would be the misapprehension that we might not be ready due to improvements in the greens. By the middle of June when the tournament probably will be held, Rolling Road will be in tip-top condition.” Not to be outdone, A.E. Marshall, who chaired the Maryland Country Club golf committee, claimed that his club “is the logical course to entertain the championship. We have lengthened our course to championship distance. We are centrally located and we want the event.” The president of the Suburban Club, A.F. Weinberg, upped the stakes with the following pronouncement: “We have the greatest golf course in Maryland and, as this is to be a real championship contest, let’s play it on a real course.” (Claude Madison further noted Mr. Weinberg’s view that while the other two clubs have very decent courses, they “could not hold a candle to Suburban.”) MARYLAND STATE GOLF MAGAZINE | April 2014
ered his club as a site for the 1925 Maryland Amateur. In the early 1920s Sherwood Forest was being developed by William F. Cochran as a private retreat on the Severn River. Cochran ered a sterling silver cup for a club team competition during the Maryland Amateur.
THE PRESENT Today, some 92 years later, the Maryland State Golf Association represents some 125 member clubs, and provides course rating and handicap services to 160 clubs and courses in Maryland. The MSGA is directed by a 15 member Board of Directors who represent various member of four . Our tournament schedule now consists of some 30 state tournaments as well as USGA ers.
For additional information about the MSGA and its member services please visit our web site at www.msga.org or call (410) 653-5300.
Share
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
MARYLAND STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION
OFFICERS & STAFF 2014 Board of Directors PRESIDENT Richard Collins Baltimore CC rcollins@stpaulsschool.org 410-252-1494
VICE PRESIDENT Diane Herndon Argyle CC dinger54@gmail.com 301-518-9221
VICE PRESIDENT Stanard Klinefelter Elkridge CC sklinefelter@brownadvisory.com 410-537-5402
VICE PRESIDENT David “Moose” Brown Rolling Road GC moose@advpack.com 410-358-9444
VICE PRESIDENT Jan Miller Baltimore CC jmiller@rcmd.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 William Matton US Naval Academy GC billmatton@verizon.net 410-956-4815
DIRECTOR AT LARGE Marilyn Tucker Argyle CC marilyn.tucker4116@comcast.net 301-871-7194
2014 MSGA Staff EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR William Smith Hillendale CC bsmith@msga.org 410-653-5300
VICE PRESIDENT Thomas Whelan Manor CC twhelan@ryancom.com 410-712-0888
VICE PRESIDENT John Barse Columbia CC Jack@barse.org 301-229-6031
VICE PRESIDENT Alexander Martin Green Spring Valley HC abmartin1@aol.com 443-310-2445
TREASURER John Pauliny Hillendale CC johnpauliny@comcast.net 410-252-9107
DIRECTOR AT LARGE Joan McGinnis Holly Hills CC joanmcginnis3@gmail.com 301-644-2738
DIRECTOR OF RULES AND COMPETITIONS Randal Reed Four Streams GC rreed@msga.org 410-653-5300
DIRECTOR OF HANDICAP & MEMBER SERVICES Matt Sloan msloan@msga.org 410-653-5300
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Kim Daniels kdaniels@msga.org 410-653-5300
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
www.thinksportsmedia.com
William Smith, Executive Director, Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) MSGA editorial Randal P. Reed, Executive Director, Middle Atlantic Golf Association (MAGA) and the Washington Metropolitan Golf Association (WMGA)‘Rules Revisited’ feature lead Marty West III, Nine-time Maryland Amateur Champion, Five-time Mid Atlantic Amateur Champion, Two-time Walker Cup ‘The Amateur Interview’ columnist
Executive Publisher Marcus Bain marcus@thinksportsmedia.com
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
Managing Editor Camilla Bowry camilla@thinksportsmedia.com Design Whoa Mama Design www.whoamamadesign.com
UK HEAD OFFICE: THINK SPORTS MEDIA LTD 6 OAKLANDS GARDENS KENLEY SURREY CR8 5DS ENGLAND Company No. 07852928
U.S. OFFICE: DAVID NORMAN
CONNECT WITH US:
FACEBOOK.COM/ THINKSPORTSMEDIA TWITTER.COM @THINKSPORTMEDIA
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The harder you practice, the luckier you getâ&#x20AC;? Gary Player
If you would like to contribute to our content please email us at info@thinksportsmedia.com
cial Magazine of
Maryland State Golf Association SHARE
FACEBOOK.COM
TWITTER.COM
PLUS.GOOGLE.COM
To get your free monthly subscription simply send an email with your name to us at info@thinksportsmedia.com