Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Red Ledges Celebrates Grand Opening of Jack Nicklaus Signature 12-Hole Golf Park

(HEBER VALLEY, Utah) — Red Ledges (www.redledges.com), a premier four-season mountain golf community just minutes from downtown Park City, recently celebrated its Grand Opening of the first-ever Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Park, an innovative 12-hole Par-3 layout by the acclaimed golf course designer, who was on-hand for the unveiling of his latest work.

Responding to the growing trend of making golf more accessible and relevant to new, recreational, or busy players, Red Ledges collaborated with the Golden Bear to design and build the first-ever Jack Nicklaus Signature 12-hole Golf Park — created to be friendly, fun and approachable in a fast-paced world. The short layout and forgiving greens encourage family-friendly play while still providing an enjoyable round for the seasoned player. There are also several innovative features, including multiple cups to target (a traditional 4¼” and a larger 8”). In addition to traditional golf carts, the park offers new and exciting single rider, skateboard/snowboard-style vehicles. The course is comprised of 12 par-3 holes with the back-tee yardage lengths ranging from 107 to 183 yards.

Owners specifically chose the name “Golf Park” over the traditional “golf course,” because park activities like soccer, Frisbee, picnicking and dog walking are encouraged. It is a grand experiment to mix the cultures of family, park and golf.

“We are excited about the addition of this Golf Park to our community,” said Red Ledges COO Mitchel Burns. “We wanted to do something innovative and Jack has done a beautiful design for us. We wanted to remove the stuffiness of traditional golf and make the game more approachable and family-friendly. We believe this course will open up the game to more players, whether they are beginners, families, groups, or scratch players getting in a fast round after work.”

The Golden Bear helped christen the Golf Park by hitting the ceremonial tee shot after he delighted members to a Q&A in order to provide further design insight.

“The team at Red Ledges had originally envisioned and discussed a nine-hole course that had a mix of par-3 holes and par-4 holes, so we originally started to design such a layout,” said Nicklaus, whose championship layout at Red Ledges opened in 2009, was a GOLF Magazine selection of Best New Private Course that year, and has been named Best Golf Course in Utah by the Best of State Awards for seven consecutive years.

“But the more we toured the property and really started to get into the routing and strategy, it was apparent we needed to go another direction. The general concept with a short course is to give members an alternative to the larger golf course. Whether they are short on time; they are just beginning the game; or they simply want something different, a short course or a golf park should serve many people. To have a member go to the course and perhaps take a full golf bag so they can play a couple of par 4s did not necessarily meet the goals of the short course. Rather, what the developer wanted is a layout that can be played by juniors, women, seniors and beginners—or one that is simply a fun diversion for the core golfer and member.”

So in the midst of his first site visit, Nicklaus had the idea to convert the layout to 12 par-3 holes.

“By designing a 12-hole, par-3 course, the member can play with a small bag or just a handful of clubs,” the Golden Bear added. “And while it sounds simple, the course being 12 holes gives them the option of playing something a little longer than nine holes and shorter than 18 holes. Players can also break up the layout in various ways to customize their experience — from playing as few as six holes to as many as 18.”

Nicklaus did not cap his innovation with a decision on the number of holes or lengths. He also utilized green designs and grasses that would better allow shots to feed toward the holes — believing that as part of a faster and fun design, enhanced success for golfers of all ages would encourage them to play the game more often.

"As traditional as Jack is—and he’s the greatest player of all time and the greatest spokesman of all time—he’s out there essentially saying, ‘We don’t have to do 18 holes in five hours and beat ourselves up. We can do things differently,’” said Troon CEO Dana Garmany.

“Thanks to Jack's vision, and that of Red Ledges, this is a starting point for that—something I think will be really great for the future of golf. I think in the future, you will see more of these built, as well as some retro things where people take existing golf courses and try to make them more fun. Clubs that are innovative are going to survive and do great. We built a sense of family here; a sense of safety here—it’s a great spot to be,” Garmany said.

For more information, visit www.redledges.com and nicklaus.com.

Day, Johnson, Spieth Headline Field at Deutsche Bank Championship for 2nd Stop of Playoffs

Five Members of European Ryder Cup Team & Captain Darren Clarke in Field at Omega European Masters in Switzerland as Willett Defends

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – The PGA TOUR stages the second leg of the FedExCup Playoffs this week, where the top-100 in the current standings are eligible to compete at the Deutsche Bank Championship outside of Boston. Due to the holiday weekend, the event will begin on Friday and is scheduled to conclude on Monday, airing exclusively on Golf Channel and NBC. Jason Day, Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Henrik Stenson and Rory McIlroy headline the field.

The LPGA Tour is in Ontario, Canada for the Manulife LPGA Classic, where the top-three ranked players in the world headline the field: Lydia Ko, Ariya Jutanugarn and Canada’s Brooke Henderson.

The European Tour is in Switzerland for the Omega European Masters, where European Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke will be joined by five members of his team: Matthew Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan, Lee Westwood, Danny Willett and Chris Wood.

And the PGA TOUR Champions also are in Canada for the Shaw Charity Classic, where Bernhard Langer and Tom Watson headline the field.

PGA TOUR
Deutsche Bank Championship
Dates: Sept. 2-5
Venue: TPC Boston, Norton, Mass.

Tournament Airtimes on Golf Channel (Eastern):
Friday 2:30-6:30 p.m. (Live) / 9 p.m.-1 a.m. (Replay)
Saturday 2:30-6:30 p.m. (Live) / 11 p.m.-3 a.m. (Replay)
Sunday 1-3 p.m. (Live) / 9 p.m.-2 a.m. (Replay)
Monday 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Live) / 7 p.m.-Midnight (Replay)

Tournament Airtimes on NBC (Eastern):
Sunday 3-6 p.m. (Live)
Monday 1:30-6 p.m. (Live)

Broadcast Notes:
Friday start, Monday finish due to holiday weekend: Due to the holiday weekend, the opening round of the Deutsche Bank Championship begins Friday, Sept. 2, and the final round is scheduled to conclude on Monday, Sept. 5. The top-100 players in the FedExCup standings following The Barclays are eligible to compete, and the top-70 in the standings following Monday’s final round will advance to the BMW Championship next week outside of Indianapolis.

Fowler defends: Rickie Fowler finished one stroke ahead of Henrik Stenson to earn his third career PGA TOUR victory.

Headlining the field: Jason Day, Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Henrik Stenson, Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, Bubba Watson, Rickie Fowler, Patrick Reed, Justin Rose and Phil Mickelson.

NBC Sports Broadcast Team
Play by Play: Terry Gannon (Golf Channel) / Dan Hicks (NBC)
Analyst: Frank Nobilo (Golf Channel) / Johnny Miller (NBC)
Tower: Gary Koch / Peter Jacobsen
On Course: Roger Maltbie / Mark Rolfing / Notah Begay
Interviews: Steve Sands

LPGA TOUR
Manulife LPGA Classic
Dates: Sept. 1-4
Venue: Whistle Bear Golf Club, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

Tournament Airtimes on Golf Channel (Eastern):
Thursday 3-6 p.m. (Live) / 2-5 a.m. (Friday replay)
Friday Noon-2 p.m. (Live)
Saturday 9-11 p.m. (Tape delay) / 4-6 p.m. (Streaming on Golf Live Extra)
Sunday 3-6 p.m. (Live) / 4-6 a.m. (Monday replay)

Broadcast Notes:
Final event before Evian Championship, fifth and final major of 2016: The Manulife LPGA Classic is the final event before the Evian Championship in France in two weeks, which is the fifth and final major of 2016.

“Caddie Knows Best” with Alena Sharp: Alena Sharp and her caddie will be featured in “Caddie Knows Best,” during Thursday’s opening round coverage, where Alena will try match answers to questions posed to her caddie about her interests and habits on Tour.

Pettersen defends: Suzann Pettersen outlasted Brittany Lang by a shot to earn her 15th career LPGA Tour win, and her first since 2013.

Headlining the field: Lydia Ko, Ariya Jutanugarn, Brooke Henderson, Sei Young Kim, In Gee Chun, Stacy Lewis, Ha Na Jang, So Yeon Ryu, Minjee Lee, Suzann Pettersen and Brittany Lang.

Golf Channel Broadcast Team
Play by Play: Tom Abbott
Analyst: Karen Stupples
Tower: Curt Byrum
On Course: Jerry Foltz / Kay Cockerill

EUROPEAN TOUR
Omega European Masters
Dates: Sept. 1-4
Venue: Crans-sur-Sierre GC (Severiano Ballesteros Course), Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Tournament Airtimes on Golf Channel (Eastern):
Thursday 5:30-7:30 a.m. / 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Live)
Friday 5:30-7:30 a.m. / 9:30 a.m.-Noon (Live)
Saturday 7-11 a.m. (Live) / Noon-2 p.m. (Replay)
Sunday 6-11 a.m. (Live)

Broadcast Notes:
Field features five European Ryder Cup team members along with captain Darren Clarke: European Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke is in the field, along with five of the members of his team: Matthew Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan, Lee Westwood, Danny Willett and Chris Wood.

Willett defends: Danny Willett finished one shot ahead of Matthew Fitzpatrick for his third career European Tour win.

Headlining the field: Danny Willett, Andrew Johnston, Matthew Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan, Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Bryson DeChambeau, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Chris Wood.

Golf Channel Broadcast Team
Studio Host: Mike Ritz
Play by Play: Dougie Donnelly
Analyst: Ken Brown
On-Course: Julian Tutt

PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS
Shaw Charity Classic
Dates: Sept. 2-4
Venue: Canyon Meadows Golf & Country Club, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Tournament Airtimes on Golf Channel (Eastern):
Friday 7-9 p.m. (Tape delay) / 4:30-6:30 p.m. (Streaming on Golf Live Extra)
Saturday 7-9 p.m. (Tape delay) / 4:30-6:30 p.m. (Streaming on Golf Live Extra)
Sunday 6:30-9 p.m. (Tape delay) / 4-6:30 p.m. (Streaming on Golf Live Extra)

Broadcast Notes:
Maggert defends: Jeff Maggert finished four shots ahead of the field to capture his fourth career PGA TOUR Champions victory.

Headlining the field: Bernhard Langer, Tom Watson, Colin Montgomerie, Rocco Mediate, Jeff Maggert, Mark O’Meara, John Daly, Jay Haas, Tom Lehman, Gene Sauers and Woody Austin.

Golf Channel Broadcast Team
Play by Play: Whit Watson
Analyst: Lanny Wadkins
Tower: John Mahaffey / Dave Marr
On Course: Billy Ray Brown

Riviera Country Club Names General Chairman, Tournament Director for 2017 US Amateur

(LOS ANGELES, CA) — The Riviera Country Club corporate officer Michael R. Yamaki has been named the General Chairman and Thomas Pulchinski has been selected tournament director for the 2017 United States Amateur Golf Championship to be played at Riviera from August 14-20, 2017.

Michael R. Yamaki
In addition to Yamaki’s duties in managing one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the country at The Riviera Country Club, he is one of the most active community and civic members in the city of Los Angeles.

Yamaki has been very involved in the world of sports and entertainment as he currently serves as a Board of Directors for the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission. He is a former member of the Los Angeles Convention Center Commission and is the former Director of Golf for the State of Hawaii.

Yamaki has been a member of the Fellows of the American Bar Foundation, a member of the Board of Directors for D.A.R.E America, a member of the Los Angeles Advisory Board for the Children’s Scholarship Fund; and legal counsel for the Japanese American Citizen League, which is the oldest Japanese American civil rights organization in the United States.

In addition to the above, he has also held active roles in the Los Angeles Fire Department as President of the Los Angeles Fire Commission, and in the Los Angeles Police Department.  As a former member of the Los Angeles Police Commission, he was specifically responsible for the review of all officer involved shootings.  He was also a member of the Use of Force Task Force for the Los Angeles Police Commission.  He is currently a member of the International Association of Chief of Police and a Board of Director for the DEA Educational Foundation.

Yamaki was the Senior Advisor to Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca. Previous to that he was the Appointments Secretary to California Governor Gray Davis.  In addition he was a member of the California Medical Assistance Commission and former public advisory director of Blue Cross of California. He was a Commissioner to the Department of Justice Commission on Peace Officer Standards & Training. He was the administrative coordinator of the Narcotics Information Clinic California Council Criminal Justice Department.

Yamaki has been named as one of the 100 Most Influential attorneys in California by the Daily Journal. He was AV rated by Martindale-Hubbel and a former Master of the Bench of the Inn of Court. He is a member of the California State Bar Association and a delegate to the State Bar for two years.  He is a past President of the Japanese American Bar Association and he is currently a member of the LAW-HELP-CALIFORNIA Task Force which provides pro bono services to disaster victims.

Yamaki is a life member of the Magic Castle and a former student of famed Bruce Cervon.

Pulchinski is very familiar with The Riviera Country Club and running major events.

For the past 25 years, Pulchinski has been instrumental in playing a part in the success of the Nissan Open and Northern Trust Open.  He was the Tournament Director for the Nissan Open and Northern Trust Open as a member of the Los Angeles Junior Chamber of Commerce staff from 1992 to 2010.  When the PGA TOUR took over management of the tournament in 2010, Pulchinski became the Tournament Manager of the event.

Pulchinski has served as the tournament manager in a volunteer capacity for the 2012 NCAA National Golf Championship held at Riviera and the 2015 Special Olympics World Games at Griffith Park Golf Course.

Pulchinski’s sports career also has include professional baseball, where he worked for the Houston Astros at Covington, VA in 1972; and then served as General Manager of the Waterloo Baseball Club (1975-77) and the Wichita Aeros Baseball Club (1978). He joined the Cleveland Indians front office and was Director of Sales and Marketing from 1979 to 1985.

In addition to baseball, Pulchinski worked at the Hollywood Park Race Track in Inglewood, where he was Director of Marketing in 1986 and he also was the Executive Director of the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, LA in 1987 and 1988.

Pulchinski, who resides in Los Angeles, earned his B.S. degree in Business Management from Arizona State University. He played baseball there for two years and served as an assistant coach for two years.

The U.S. Amateur was first played in 1895 and is the USGA’s oldest championship. The championship is open to amateur golfers with a USGA Handicap Index not exceeding 2.4.

Riviera will become the 11th course to have hosted the U.S. Open, U.S. Senior Open and U.S. Amateur.

Riviera, designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and opened for play in 1927, has played host to two PGA Championships in 1983 and 1995, one U.S. Open in 1948 and one U.S. Senior Open in 1998.

Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles will serve as the companion course for the stroke-play rounds for the 2017 U.S. Amateur. Bel-Air has hosted two USGA championships—the 1976 U.S. Amateur and the 2004 USGA Senior Amateur.

For further information on tickets, sponsorship packages and merchandise for the U.S. Amateur at The Riviera Country Club, call (213) 236-239. Anyone interested in volunteering for the event can do so by emailing Tiffany Rockman at trockman@lasec.us.

Troon and Florida State University Announce Partnership

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in golf course management, development, and marketing, and Florida State University’s Dedman School of Hospitality are proud to announce a unique partnership aimed at growing and developing future leaders in the global club management and hospitality industries. The partnership, which will begin this fall semester, will focus on four key components, including:
- Student Leadership and Management Training Program – A number of students from FSU’s Dedman School of Hospitality majoring in Global Club Management will be selected to attend and participate in Troon’s annual leadership conference. In addition, select students will be placed into management internship training at Troon-managed properties and at Troon’s corporate offices in Scottsdale, Ariz. and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
- International Internship Program - Troon and FSU will annually place a select number of interns from the Global Club Management major at Troon-managed private clubs and golf resorts abroad.
Recruiting Program – Troon’s Human Resources team will attend the Dedman School of Hospitality’s annual Internship Expo and will promote seasonal job opportunities at Troon facilities to all Global Club Management and Hospitality majors.
- Information Sharing – Troon will share current trends and information with the Dedman School of Hospitality’s faculty to help in the real-world education process of students. Conversely, students and faculty will provide Troon with fresh perspectives and ideas and will also share the latest academic studies that impact the club and hospitality industries.

“We’re seeing tremendous global growth in the club and hospitality industry and are always seeking talented, well-qualified individuals to work at the facilities we manage,” said John Easterbrook, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Troon. “This is an exciting partnership with Florida State University and one that will benefit all involved – students, faculty, Troon-managed facilities and our guests.”

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Golf Courses at Reynolds 'Best You Can Play'

National and State Honors Continue For Premier Southeast Destination

(GREENSBORO, Ga.) — Highlighting one of the most elite collections of golf courses in the United States, Reynolds Lake Oconee has received recognition from GOLF Magazine, with two courses named among the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” list for 2016-2017, and four Reynolds layouts dominating the Top 10 on the Georgia list of “Best Courses Near You.”

Leading the list of honors for Reynolds Lake Oconee is the Jack Nicklaus-designed Great Waters course, ranked No. 41 on the Top 100 nationally, and the Oconee course, designed by Rees Jones, ranked No. 63.

On the “Best Near You” list for Georgia, Reynolds Lake Oconee captured four spots, more than any other venue in the South: Great Waters No. 2; Oconee Course No. 3; the National Course, designed by Tom Fazio, No. 5; The Landing, designed by the late Bob Cupp, No. 10.

Together these gems along Georgia’s Lake Oconee, between Atlanta and Augusta, continue to enrich the reputation of Reynolds Lake Oconee as the nation’s premier golf community and preferred golf destination.

“This collection of diverse courses, combined with Reynolds Kingdom of Golf presented by TaylorMade and our extensive member programming allows Reynolds Lake Oconee to deliver a golf experience that truly cannot be found anywhere else,” Mark Lammi, Vice President of Golf Operations at Reynolds Lake Oconee.

Since MetLife’s acquisition of the lakeshore destination in August 2012, five of the six golf courses have undergone substantial investment and improvements, part of the $40 million in ongoing renovations.

“We are dedicated to maintain the highest quality of golf experience at Reynolds Lake Oconee for years to come,” Lammi said. “The recent projects are evidence of the ownership’s commitment to quality and the long-term success of the community.”

The “Best Courses Near You” is a state-by-state compilation of golf courses accessible to guest and/or public play. It is part of GOLF’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” rankings published in the September 2016 issue and online at www.golf.com.

Reynolds Lake Oconee also is one of only 11 golf resorts in the country to earn the prestigious Platinum Medal from GOLF Magazine.

The newest development at Reynolds is at the National Course, with the unveiling of the golf village – featuring guest accommodations at the National Cottages, adjacent to the golf course, new National Tavern and clubhouse complex. Also, all rooms, cottages, restaurants, the spa, and swimming pools of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee have been redecorated and refurbished.
For additional information, access www.reynoldslakeoconee.com.

Something for Everyone at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

There is no better time than autumn for great golf on Hilton Head Island at the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

(HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C.) — Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, the venerable home of great golf on Hilton Head Island, overflows with reasons to play golf. And just to play, period.

A 2,000-acre resort stretching across three miles of Atlantic Ocean beach, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort features three world-class golf courses and an award-winning tennis center, plus 11 miles of lagoons, an Outfitters Shop and one of the best beaches on the eastern seaboard. In addition, the resort’s Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina provides some of the island’s finest waterfront shopping and dining, along with seasonal entertainment and activities for the entire family.

Indeed, excursions to Hilton Head Island are never the same trip twice. For decades, visitors have come to Palmetto Dunes with their families as well as with their friends and business colleagues. But the combining appeal of its trio of premier golf courses plus three miles of the world’s most beautiful beaches has always truly stood as the difference-maker at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort.

“The three Palmetto Dunes golf courses receive a lot of attention, not just from golfers but from the professional staff which keeps them immaculate,” said Palmetto Dunes Vice President of Resort Operations Brad Marra. “All the courses twist and turn among lakes, lagoons, marshes. It’s not a stretch to say that you have to see it to believe it.”

GOLF Magazine’s “Best Courses You Can Play” state rankings, a critical compilation of top-rated playing venues in America, recently included the Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course. Earlier this year, it entered Golfweek magazine’s 2016 “Best Courses You Can Play” rankings at No. 9 in South Carolina.

The Jones Course’s signature hole, the dramatic par-five 10th, which was named a South Carolina Dream Hole, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and is widely considered one of the most spectacular holes in the United States. One of only two oceanfront holes on Hilton Head Island, the course’s legendary 10th hole delights golfers of every skill level.

Last year, the Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort joined Jones on the South Carolina Top 30 “Best You Can Play” list by the South Carolina Golf Rating Panel. The layout takes full advantage of the natural beauty of this South Carolina sea island and represents a careful blend of beauty and challenge. Stands of palmetto trees line the graceful fairways. Built on a series of rolling dunes, the Arthur Hills Course presents many opportunities for off-balance lies, while ocean breezes add to the challenge. Ten holes on the water further encourage precision play.

Meanwhile, many golfers regard the George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, the island’s only par-70 course, as Hilton Head Island’s most challenging championship course. The George Fazio design has been ranked among America’s Top 100 courses and was named the 2014 South Carolina Golf Course of the Year.

Palmetto Dunes does not cater to the advanced golfer only. Permanent junior tees at the Jones Course allow younger golfers and beginners to tackle a beautiful, 2,625-yard layout, while the Fazio Course also caters to juniors, with markings of 150 yards or less on the course.

For juniors and ladies alike, lessons and daily clinics are available from PGA Professionals, as well as Monday evening demonstrations and specialized programs, all under the direction of former PGA Tour player Doug Weaver, Palmetto Dunes’ highly respected Director of Instruction. Last year, Weaver was ranked by Golf Digest as the second-best instructor in the state of South Carolina.

The Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy wants the best of the best for its students, which is why the resort offers the expertise of SwingFit. Headed by Chris Wycoff, one of Golf Digest magazine’s “Top 100 Club Fitters.” SwingFit’s approach includes more than 20,000 total club and shaft combinations and uses a data-driven process to improve performance by identifying the ideal mix of club, shaft and build specs for each golfer.

Finally, for those not wishing to lug their golf clubs to Hilton Head, the Palmetto Dunes Rental Club Program features full sets of the latest clubs from top brands TaylorMade, Nike,and Cobra.

Of course, golf is not nearly the entire story at Palmetto Dunes. Ranked as the No. 1 Tennis Resort in the Carolinas and one of Top 10 Tennis Centers in the United States by Tennis Magazine, this Hilton Head tennis resort was ranked No. 2 in the world for instruction and events, No. 3 in the world for junior programs and No. 5 in the world overall by Tennis Resorts Online.

Meanwhile, tennis, golf and fishing always seem to go together well — and red fish are abundant in Hilton Head in the fall during their mating season. For those who enjoy the distinct pleasure that only a fishing pole can provide, deep-sea chartered fishing excursions for game fish that ply the Gulf Stream are available at Shelter Cove Marina, while guests also may book nature tours as well as dolphin and nature tours.

For more information about Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and its many different fall golf packages, call 877-567-6513 or visit www.PalmettoDunes.com.

Seven Troon-Affiliated Courses on GOLF Magazine's 2016-2017 'Top 100 Courses You Can Play' List

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to announce that seven of its affiliated courses have been named to GOLF Magazine’s 2016/2017 “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” in the United States list. The seven courses to make the prestigious ranking include: Kapalua (Plantation) in Maui, Hawaii (No. 24); Troon North (Pinnacle) in Scottsdale, Ariz. (No. 25); Pronghorn (Nicklaus) in Bend, Ore. (No. 38); The Quarry at Giants Ridge in Biwabik, Minn. (No. 54); Troon North (Monument) in Scottsdale, Ariz. (No. 58); Lake of Isles (North) in North Stonington, Conn. (No. 82); and Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club in Maricopa, Ariz. (No. 84).

In addition, 40 Troon-affiliated courses were named to GOLF’s list of “Best Courses You Can Play in Every State,” including six that were ranked No. 1 in their state: Troon North (Pinnacle) for Arizona, Lake of Isles (North) for Connecticut, Bayside Resort Golf Club for Delaware, Kapalua (Plantation) for Hawaii, The Bluffs at Thompson Creek for Louisiana, and The Quarry at Giants Ridge for Minnesota.

“Congratulations to all of the courses honored within this prestigious ranking of Top 100 and Best in State,” said John Easterbrook, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Troon. “Credit should be given to the associates at each and every locale who day-in and day-out work tirelessly to deliver amazing experiences and extraordinary conditions. All of which play into these coveted accolades and honors.”

Troon-affiliated courses named among GOLF Magazine’s “Best Courses You Can Play in Every State,” with state ranking, include:
Arizona:
Troon North (Pinnacle), Scottsdale (No. 1)
Troon North (Monument), Scottsdale (No. 4)
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes, Maricopa (No. 5)
Quintero Golf Club, Peoria (No. 7)
The Boulders (South), Carefree (No. 10)
The Boulders (North), Carefree (No. 15
SunRidge Canyon, Fountain Hills (No. 17)
Sewailo Golf Club, Tucson (No. 19)
La Paloma (Ridge/Canyon), Tucson (No. 26)
Golf Club of Estrella, Goodyear (No. 29)
California:
Indian Wells Golf Resort (Players), Indian Wells (No. 16)
Aviara Golf Club, Carlsbad (No. 17)
Silverado Resort (North), Napa (No. 23)
Maderas Golf Club, San Diego (No. 24)
Classic Club, Palm Desert (No. 29)
Indian Wells Resort (Celebrity), Indian Wells (No. 30)
Colorado:
The Ridge, Castle Pines (No. 7)
Connecticut:
Lake of Isles (North), North Stonington (No. 1)
Delaware:
Bayside Resort Golf Club, Selbyville (No. 1)
Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club (Grizzly/Black Bear), Ocean View (No. 4)
Florida:
Camp Creek Golf Club, Panama City Beach (No. 10)
King & Bear at World Golf Village Resort, St. Augustine (No. 26)
Georgia:
The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa, Savannah (No. 6)
Hawaii:
Kapalua (Plantation), Maui (No. 1)
Princeville Makai, Kauai (No. 4)
Kapalua (Bay), Maui (No. 15)
Kansas:
Ironhorse Golf Club, Leawood (No. 5)
Louisiana:
The Bluffs at Thompson Creek, St. Francisville (No. 1)
Minnesota:
Giants Ridge (The Quarry), Biwabik (No. 1)
Giants Ridge (The Legend), Biwabik (No. 7)
Montana:
Old Works Golf Club, Anaconda (No. 2)
Nevada:
Conestoga Golf Club, Mesquite (No. 9)
New Jersey:
Stockton Seaview (Bay), Galloway Township (No. 9)
Stockton Seaview (Pines), Galloway Township (No. 14)
Oregon:
Pronghorn (Nicklaus), Bend (No. 5)
Texas:
The Rawls Course at Texas Tech, Lubbock (No. 4)
La Cantera Resort & Spa (Palmer), San Antonio (No. 8)
Utah:
Entrada at Snow Canyon, St. George (No. 2)
Vermont:
The Golf Club at Equinox, Manchester Village (No. 4)
Virginia:
Potomac Shores Golf Club, Potomac Shores (No. 10)

Every two years, GOLF Magazine puts together the best of the best when it comes to golf courses you can play. The list is determined by a panel of 100 raters that includes major winners, course architects, journalists and golf connoisseurs.

For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.

Meadowbrook Country Club Raises $150,000 for Four Detroit Area Charities to Mark Its 100th Anniversary

(Northville, MI)—As part of its centennial year celebrations, Meadowbrook Country Club, one of suburban Detroit’s historic private golf clubs, launched an initiative to raise $100,000 by the date of its August gala party. The club believed that the best way to commemorate its 100th anniversary was to give back to others in the community, and to that end four area charities were selected for members to choose to support with donations.

So popular was the challenge that the goal of $100,000 was exceeded by almost $50,000.

The benefitting charities included:  CATCH, a children’s charity founded by the late Detroit Tigers manager Sparky Anderson that seeks to improve the quality of life for pediatric patients; Bridgepointe, whose mission is to bring together kids from Detroit and the suburbs to provide enrichment and educational opportunities;  the Angela Hospice, a premier hospice care provider in southeast Michigan; and Main Street League, a volunteer organization of women that provides time, talent and financial resources for those in need.

“Meadowbrook Country Club is well-known in the community for its generosity, and I am pleased that in raising almost $150,000 for our four local charities we continued a remarkable tradition of giving,” said Meadowbrook Country Club president Joe Vig. “No one was pressured to contribute and our members are proud that we made this commitment as part of our centennial celebration.”

Meadowbrook also is one of the largest annual contributors to the Evans Scholars Foundation, which awards college scholarship grants to caddies. In 2015, Meadowbrook Country Club donated $152,500 to the Evans Scholars Foundation, which ranked them 9th in the nation. Former Meadowbrook caddie (and longtime club member) Walter Ickes was the club’s first Evans Scholarship recipient in 1955. Mr. Ickes was honored at the centennial gala event, as was Michigan native and one of the LPGA’s founders, Shirley Spork. Meadowbrook gave teaching legend Spork an honorary membership in 1947 which enabled her to compete in significant tournaments in Michigan and elsewhere. She is a member of the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame.

For more information, visit www.meadowbrookcountryclub.com.

Titleist Introduces New Cameron & Crown Putters by Scotty Cameron

Custom Designed Models Deliver Tour-Proven Performance for Players Whose Setup Demands a 33-inch Putter 

(FAIRHAVEN, Mass.) – The new line of Cameron & Crown putters by Scotty Cameron offers four of Scotty’s most-trusted models precisely crafted at 33 inches and specifically weighted for players whose setup demands a shorter putter.

Available in U.S. golf shops beginning Sept. 23, Cameron & Crown putters deliver the craftsmanship, quality and tour-proven performance that have made Scotty Cameron putters the choice of many of the world’s best players for more than two decades:
• Each Cameron & Crown putter is custom designed at 33 inches and matched with properly weighted heads and new smaller diameter white Matador grips. This configuration ensures correct swing weight, providing optimal feel and balance throughout the putting stroke.
• From modern blade to high-MOI mallet, Cameron & Crown models are available in four of Scotty’s most popular head shapes – Select Newport 2, Select Newport M2 Mallet, GOLO 5 and Futura X5R – to satisfy the variety of strokes, styles and preferences of players at every level of the game.
• Multi-material technology – utilizing 303 stainless steel and 6061 aircraft grade aluminum for face inlays, face-sole components and flange constructions – is performance-matched to each putter style to provide ideal forgiveness and feel.
• A raw stainless steel finish with a unique Silver Mist treatment creates a radiant yet glare resistant appearance. New Cameron & Crown graphics blend Scotty’s familiar three milled dots with an elegant white, gold, silver and black color scheme.

“Each year, I’ve received increasingly more requests – from men, women and juniors – for 33-inch putters,” said Titleist Master Putter Maker Scotty Cameron. “We wanted to call special attention to the importance of weight and length and create a unique offering for those players whose setup dictates a 33-inch putter.”

“When we pioneered the adjustable sole weight system, it became possible to match the putter head weight relative to the length for a balanced stroke,” Cameron said. “Cameron & Crown models are purpose-built 33-inch designs, not manipulated 35-inch putters, with two 20-gram weights to ensure the swing weight and feel of these putters are consistent with their longer counterparts. We then developed a smaller Matador grip to match that performance and feel. These are crucial details when it comes to making a confident stroke.”

MODEL OVERVIEW: 
Cameron & Crown Newport 2: Legendary low-slung modern heel-and-toe weighted blade with a plumbing neck, longer angular lines, 303 stainless steel head and face inlay with a flange sight line. The iconic putter model for countless professional tour wins. (Available in both RH and LH configurations.)

Cameron & Crown Newport M2 Mallet: Rectangular, boxy 303 stainless steel mid-mallet head with 6061 aircraft aluminum face-sole technology, flowing single-bend shaft, and pop-through flange alignment system.

Cameron & Crown GOLO 5: Angled back 303 stainless steel multi-material mallet with a crisp single bend shaft, pop-through 6061 aircraft aluminum sole plate with horizontal and vertical alignment aids.

Cameron & Crown Futura X5R: Modern, rounded 303 stainless steel wingback multi-material mallet with high MOI for stability and forgiveness, and enhanced aluminum sole-flange for alignment.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY:
Cameron & Crown putters are available beginning Sept. 23 through Titleist authorized golf shops in the U.S. and Canada (Rest of world, Oct. 21) at $379 MAP ($410 MSRP).

CAMERON & CROWN ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uhh17By1kY

• ON THE WEB: www.scottycameron.com
• YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/ScottyCameron
• INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ScottyCameron
• TWITTER: https://www.twitter.com/ScottyCameron

Ryan Brehm Wins Web.Com Tour WinCo Foods Portland Open, Clinches PGA TOUR Card

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Srixon and Cleveland Golf congratulate staffer Ryan Brehm for his victory over the weekend at the Web.com Tour WinCo Foods Portland Open at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club’s Witch Hollow course in North Plains, Ore. In the final regular-season Web.com Tour event of 2016, Brehm posted a 15-under-par total to win by one stroke and jump from 30th to fourth on the money list, guaranteeing him PGA TOUR playing privileges for the 2016-17 season.

“It’s been a wave of emotions,” said an emotional Brehm following the final round. “Everything from thinking 20 years in the future to trying to zone in to exactly what you’re doing on the course. I’m just thrilled. I’m thrilled to be in this position. What a week! Wow!”

A 30-year-old native of Mount Pleasant, Mich., Brehm came to Pumpkin Ridge off the strength of a tie for third one week earlier at the News Sentinel Open. He earned $31,900 there, the largest check of his career to that point. His $144,000 victory check at Pumpkin Ridge easily eclipsed that.

Brehm is one of two Srixon/Cleveland Golf tour staffers to graduate to the PGA TOUR by finishing inside the Top 25 on the Web.com Tour Regular Season money list. Rick Lamb, who won the LECOM Health Challenge last month after gaining entry as a Monday qualifier, birdied his final hole at the WinCo Foods Portland Open Sunday to post a 10-under-par total to tie for 19th place. By earning $9,360, he jumped from 27th to 24th on the money list to earn his PGA TOUR playing privileges for 2016-17.

In Ryan Brehm’s Bag:
· Srixon Z-STAR XV golf ball
· Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 wedges (48°, 54°, 60°, all 2 dot) with True Temper Dynamic Gold X7 shafts
· Srixon Z U65 Utility Iron (2-iron, 18°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold X7 shafts
· Srixon Z 745 irons (3-4), Z 945 irons (5-9) with True Temper Dynamic Gold X7 shafts
· Srixon staff golf bag and Srixon Z-STAR Premium Cabretta Leather glove

In Rick Lamb’s Bag:
· Srixon Z-STAR XV golf ball
· Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 wedges (50°, 54°, 58°, all 2 dot) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts
· Srixon staff golf bag and Srixon Z-STAR Premium Cabretta Leather glove

For additional information on Srixon / Cleveland / XXIO products and staff players, visit the following sites: www.srixon.com, www.clevelandgolf.com, and www.xxiousa.com.

Keswick Hall’s Full Cry Honored by GOLF Magazine

(CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.) – Keswick Hall and Golf Club – the acclaimed 600-acre luxury resort set in Virginia’s scenic Hunt Country – announces its Pete Dye-designed golf course, Full Cry at Keswick Golf Club, ranked No. 4 in GOLF Magazine’s just-released 2016-17 list of “Best Courses You Can Play” in Virginia.
                                                                                                           
This coveted award joins numerous recent accolades bestowed on Keswick Hall and Golf Club from noteworthy golf and travel publications. Full Cry debuted this year at No. 47 in Golfweek’s “Best Resort Courses in the U.S.” Full Cry was also ranked in Golf Digest’s “2015 Best New Courses.” In 2015, the resort received the prestigious Forbes Five-Star Award in recognition of its exceptional level of luxury and service for the second year in a row.

Full Cry – a hunting term describing the call of hounds that have found the scent and are in hot pursuit of their mark – is the destination’s signature amenity.  With the exception of one hole, the greens on Full Cry have open fronts and are approachable by low “links-style” run-up shots or through the air allowing for multiple shot maker options. Players of all abilities will savor the “Old School Pete Dye” experience.

“The fact that Full Cry continues to receive significant honor after honor since opening less than two years ago is testament to Pete Dye’s undeniable genius,” says Will Jones, General Manager. “We’re confident the sky’s the limit for further acclaim from national golf publications as the reputation of our course continues to grow.”

For those seeking to play Full Cry, the Full Cry Golf Package starts at $404 (Monday – Thurs.). It includes a one-night stay in Keswick Hall’s elegant boutique hotel and one round on Full Cry (plus complimentary daily replays). Perfect for a couple’s getaway, a second golfer may be added for $80.

The region is home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the University of Virginia and numerous outdoor pursuits, drawing history buffs, wine lovers, sports enthusiasts and nature seekers year-round. Keswick Hall features newly refreshed upscale accommodations, spa services, fine dining at Fossett’s, and myriad amenities. Highly decorated, it has attained Condé Nast Traveler “gold” status, and is one of Travel + Leisure’s 500 “World’s Best Hotels.”

For more information on Keswick Hall visit www.keswick.com or call 888.778.2565.

Monday, August 29, 2016

USGA Announces 2016 USA World Amateur Team

(FAR HILLS, N.J.) – The United States Golf Association has selected the three players who will represent the USA in the 2016 World Amateur Team Championship, to be played Sept. 21-24 at Mayakoba El Camaleon Golf Club and Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

The players are Brad Dalke, 19, of Norman, Okla.; Maverick McNealy, 20, of Portola Valley, Calif.; and Scottie Scheffler, 20, of Dallas, Texas.

“Brad, Maverick and Scottie exemplify the competitive spirit and sportsmanship that are displayed at the World Amateur Team Championship,” said Diana Murphy, president of the United States Golf Association. “We are delighted to have them join such an illustrious group of players, including Rickie Fowler, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, that have represented the United States at this renowned championship.”

The World Amateur Team Championship is conducted by the International Golf Federation (IGF), which ran the golf competition at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Dalke is a sophomore at the University of Oklahoma, and was runner-up to Curtis Luck at the 2016 U.S. Amateur Championship. He earned 2016 Division I All-Central Team honors after a freshman season that saw him start all 13 tournaments and earn a best finish of second at the 2015 Ka’anapali Classic Collegiate Invitational. Dalke, whose outstanding junior career was highlighted by a victory at the 2015 Junior PGA Championship, is No. 124 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking™ (WAGR).

McNealy is a senior at Stanford University, and is No. 1 in the WAGR, receiving the Mark H. McCormack Medal as the world’s top male amateur in 2016. McNealy has earned first-team All-America and Pac-12 Conference Player of the Year honors for the last two seasons, and helped lead Stanford to conference and regional titles in 2016. McNealy qualified for the 2014 U.S. Open Championship, was a member of the 2015 USA Walker Cup Team and advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2015 U.S. Amateur and U.S. Amateur Four-Ball championships.

Scheffler is a junior at the University of Texas, and is No. 20 in the WAGR. He qualified for the 2016 U.S. Open and shot a first-round 69. Scheffler, the 2013 U.S. Junior Amateur champion, helped the University of Texas advance to the 2016 NCAA match-play final, as well as win the Big 12 Conference Championship and NCAA Franklin Regional. Scheffler, who made the cut at the PGA Tour’s 2014 Byron Nelson Classic, was the Big 12’s top newcomer in 2015.

Paul D. Caruso Jr., a former member of the USGA Executive Committee, will serve as captain of the USA World Amateur Team.

The alternates are Will Zalatoris, 20, of Plano, Texas, and Collin Morikawa, 19, of La Canada, Calif.

The World Amateur Team Championship was founded in 1958, and the Women’s World Amateur Team Championship began in 1964. The IGF was founded in 1958 to encourage the international development of golf through friendship and sportsmanship. Today, the IGF consists of 135 national governing bodies of golf representing 129 countries, and is the international federation for golf for the International Olympic Committee.

The Mexican Golf Federation will host the 2016 World Amateur Team Championship. The championship was last played in 2014 in Karuizawa, Japan, with the USA Team of Bryson DeChambeau, Beau Hossler and Denny McCarthy winning the title. The USA has won the last two championships, and has earned a championship-record 15 titles.

The 2018 championship will be contested at Carton House (Montgomerie and O’Meara Courses) in Maynooth, Ireland.

33rd Annual Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship Tees Off

3,000+ Players From 26 Countries Are Participating in 72-Hole Event

(Myrtle Beach, S.C.) – More than 3,000 players from 26 countries began play at the 33rd annual Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship Monday morning in hopes of claiming the mantle of World Champion.

The “Every Man’s Major,” as the event is often called, is being contested on 50 of Myrtle Beach’s best courses, including Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, Love Course at Barefoot Resort, Grande Dunes Resort Course and Heritage Club.

A 72-hole, net stroke play tournament, the World Am is being played August 29-September 2. Players have been separated into six divisions and 64 flights based on age, gender and handicap. After four rounds of competition, all flight winners and ties advance to the World Championship Playoff at Barefoot Resort’s Dye Club on Friday.

At the heart of the World Am’s competitive success is the game’s best and most aggressively enforced handicap monitoring system, which levels the playing field for all participants.

Myrtle Beach, the game’s most popular destination, is the only place capable of hosting a tournament as large as the World Am, and the depth and quality of the area’s courses are a primary attraction.

As important as the golf is, it’s only half the fun at the World Am. Each night players gather at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center for the festivities at the “World’s Largest 19th Hole,” a 120,000-square-foot golf extravaganza. Players enjoy free food and drinks, live entertainment, a golf expo and celebrity guests, among many other activities.

Joining golfers at this year’s tournament will be television analyst Charlie Rymer, PGA Tour champion Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey, and national radio hosts Brian Katrek and John Maginnes.

The World Am is a one-of-a-kind event, bringing golfers from different cultures, ability levels and backgrounds together to celebrate the game.

Here are some numbers to digest as the 2016 Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship tees off:
- 6: Number of competitive divisions, ranging from men 49 and under to the super seniors (70+), a women's division and the recently created gross division
- 32: Courses used daily
- 50: Courses utilized for the entire week
- 64: Total number of flights
- 96: Approximate number of players at each course daily
- 5,000: Estimated participants and guests visiting the World’s Largest 19th Hole nightly at the Sheraton Hotel and Convention Center
- 102: Estimated kegs of beer consumed for the week at the 19th Hole
- .1 - 40.4: Range of handicaps in the competition
- 16,579 kilometers: The approximate distance from Adelaide, Australia – Christopher Kay’s home – to Myrtle Beach, the farthest commute of any 2016 competitor.

Kentwool Announces Sponsorship of Inaugural World Caddie Matches

Team USA and Team International to Wear “World’s Best Golf Sock” and KENTWOOL Caps in Competition

(GREENVILLE, S.C.) — KENTWOOL, maker of the “World’s Best Golf Sock,” and the Official Sock of the Association of Professional Tour Caddies (APTC), announced today that it is extending its company-wide support of golf caddies, with an accessories sponsorship of the inaugural World Caddie Matches at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT. This one-of-kind event takes place on Monday, August 29th, when more than 40 PGA TOUR caddies from around the world compete in a one-day, two-round “Ryder Cup-style” format competition.

“So many professional caddies are fantastic players in their own right,” said Dan Murphy, President of KENTWOOL. “We expect to see some very impressive golf on display this week in the new and exciting event.”

The morning will feature modified alternate shot matches, followed by singles in the afternoon. This unique, first-ever World Caddie tournament will be open for the public to watch, and some of the PGA pro golfers are also expected to attend to support their caddies! Proceeds from the event will benefit K9s for Warriors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing service canines to military veterans.

KENTWOOL will provide its popular Men’s Tour Profile socks for players to wear in competition. Team USA has chosen to sport KENTWOOL’s limited edition APTC sock, while the International squad will don KENTWOOL’s Red Stars pattern.  Both teams will also be outfitted with KENTWOOL signature caps embroidered with their respective team names on the side.

“In some ways, caddies have been the unheralded heroes of golf, but KENTWOOL has long respected the important role they play in the game. That is why we became the first-ever official sponsor of the APTC earlier this year and why we wanted to lend our support to the World Caddie Matches as well,” said Murphy. “We are incredibly proud of the fact that over 100 million blister-free steps will be taken on the PGA TOUR in 2016, thanks to KENTWOOL socks, many of which will be taken by caddies. It’s our pleasure to support this great group as they caddie and this week as they play.”

The inaugural World Caddie Matches at Mohegan Sun Golf Club is a must-see event for all golf aficionados, and fans can follow the tournament with Carl Paulson and Dennis Paulson on their highly acclaimed PGA Tour radio show, “Inside the Ropes.” Tickets will be available for public purchase with details to follow at www.mohegansungolfclub.com.

Since 2008, KENTWOOL has been manufacturing the “World’s Best Golf Sock,” just outside of Greenville, SC. Drawing on over 150 years of mastery in wool manufacturing, KENTWOOL leverages the attributes of wool, nature’s performance fiber, for unmatched comfort and performance in the sock category. For more information on the KENTWOOL brand, visit http://www.kentwool.com.

FJ Introduces New HYPERFLEX II: Performance Reimagined

(RELEASE) - Featuring a completely reimagined BioMorph exoskeleton upper designed to mimic the ligaments of the foot, HYPERFLEX II delivers lightweight support, cushioning and enhanced flexibility to elevate your game to its highest level.

HYPERFLEX II features a tight-knit, lightweight, soft, flexible, waterproof mesh upper, which allows for maximum comfort, breathability and flexibility. A newly designed FlexGrid 3.0 BioMorph upper pattern is fused to the underlying mesh. Designed to mimic and work in concert with the ligaments of the foot, the new BioMorph pattern allows for more natural movement and flexibility while walking and throughout the golf swing, yet still delivers the lateral stability needed.

“With the new Biomorph upper, our goal was to strike a balance between structure and flexibility and deliver those benefits in the exact locations they’re needed,” said Doug Robinson, VP of Golf Footwear WW. “We accomplished this by studying the physiology of the human foot and building an upper that worked in unison with the musculature and tendons of the foot to give the golfer a shoe that will move when they need it to and provide support when they need it.”

Since it’s inception, the HYPERFLEX family of golf shoes has been worn by several of the world’s best players, including newly crowned PGA Champion, Jimmy Walker. Rafa Cabrera Bello, Patton Kizzire, Daniel Summerhays, Joost Luiten, Jason Bohn, Graham Delaet, and Brendan Steele have also worn the shoes on the PGA and European Tours.

KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS
· FlexGrid 3.0 BioMorph upper – The high-performance upper material defines the aesthetics of HYPERFLEX but also has a highly functional purpose. The soft and comfortable material helps to control the foot during the swing and retain its shape over time. Incorporates a breathable membrane that is guaranteed waterproof for two years.

· FineTunedFoam 2.0 – The inclusion of FTF 2.0 provides the exceptional comfort of HYPERFLEX II. The next-generation midsole, constructed of a softer and lighter EVA blend, delivers supercharged cushioning.

· O.P.S. - Visible at the rear of the shoe, the Optimized Performance Stabilizer provides support and motion control towards the heel.

· N.E.O. - Next Evolutionary Outsole, equipped with ‘Tornado’ Cleats by SoftSpikes, has been specifically engineered with thin TPU that provides flexible-yet-durable underfoot traction elements that utilize the Fast-Twist insert system.

AVAILABLE: August 22
STYLES: Silver, Red/White/Blue, Black
MSRP: $190

In addition, one style will be available 9/15 with the premium Boa Lacing System:
Blue/Silver
MSRP: $210

For more information, visit www.FootJoy.com. You can also follow the brand on Twitter @FootJoy or Instragram @footjoy.

Photos from Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV

Here are some images from my recent trip to Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV. To read the article, click HERE.
The par 3s at Oglebay's Speidel Golf Club were special
I love the long views with golf in the mountains
Crossing into Holes 4-16 of Palmer was an experience
From the first hole at Palmer, you new it was a modern gem
The Jones Course offered plenty of challenges
The rock work popped
Perhaps the hardest par 3 - narrow with danger 
There's plenty of nature beyond golf at Oglebay 

Mizuno Unveils New JPX900 Lineup of Woods

Trio of new clubs showcases a scientifically crafted approach to excellence

(Norcross, Ga.) – Mizuno, a company long regarded for its excellence and innovation in iron performance, is challenging the status quo by investing the same level of attention and detail in its woods, beginning with the new JPX900 lineup of woods. The new JPX900 Driver, Fairway Wood and Hybrid are making a statement by showcasing the science-driven process of Mizuno to craft clubs that deliver unrivaled optimization, enhanced performance and better control.

“We want to not only be taken seriously, but to be respected in the wood category,” said Ryan Ellis, Associate Brand Manager - Golf. “We realized to do this that we had to change people’s perceptions of our performance, and it started with changing our approach to the design process. Our biggest problem was we were operating within our known possibilities. When we began designing the JPX900 woods we went to the table without any restraints in mind, especially cost, and looked at what mattered the most — performance. This pushed us beyond our known possibilities, creating an explosion of ideas, knowledge and technologies that have birthed a new beginning in the wood category for us. This not only changes the game for us now, but for the future as well. With the JPX900 woods, we are just getting started.”

The JPX900 Driver takes the success of the JPX850 and improves it on every front, from ball speed to forgiveness to adjustability. The new CORTECH face design is five grams lighter than the JPX850, freeing up discretionary weight while expanding the COR area to offer more forgiveness and ball speed retention on off-center hits.

Mizuno’s first-ever Infinite Fast Track uses a pair of eight-gram adjustable weights on an unbounded track, yielding unlimited settings to precisely dial in spin and vertical launch parameters. A pair of additional Fast Track ports in the toe and heel help to modify horizontal displacement and trajectory.

Understanding that performance starts with confidence, Mizuno developed the Visual Face Angle adjustor to enable customization of the desired face-angle orientation at address. By combining all of these features with the Quick Switch Hosel, which allows loft adjustments of +/- two degrees, the JPX900 Driver is scientifically crafted for optimization.

The JPX900 Fairway Wood also features Infinite Fast Track technology, making it the first-ever fairway wood with a front/back adjustable, sliding-weight system, putting the golfer in complete control of launch, height and spin. With a re-engineered compact head shape, the JPX900 Fairway Wood also employs the Shockwave Sole, pushing the center of gravity forward, enabling the clubhead to flex on impact to maximize distance, power and forgiveness. Offering unmatched control, the JPX900 Fairway Wood is scientifically crafted for performance.

The JPX900 Hybrid is the first Mizuno hybrid with adjustable loft settings. Equipped with a Quick Switch Hosel, for +/- two degrees of loft control, as well as re-engineered head dimensions, it provides a seamless and easy transition from woods to irons. The Shockwave Sole gives the club a front-weighted design that delivers higher ball speeds, lower spin and ease of launch, making it scientifically crafted for control.

To make sure every aspect of club performance is being maximized, Mizuno spared no expense by choosing high-end, aftermarket shafts to offer stock in each model. The JPX900 Driver and Fairway Wood come with tour-proven Fujikura Speeder Evolution II shafts ranging from light weight models, for slower swing speeds, to heavier, more stiff profile options for professional level swing speeds. The JPX900 Hybrid embodies the same philosophy with a hybrid-specific, highly regarded shaft in the Fujikura Pro Hybrid.

Connect with Mizuno on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@Golf_Mizuno) to keep up with product news, Tour updates and custom content and fitting tools.

Product Review: Air Force One Air Foil 3-wood

I’ve had a love-hate relationship with my 3-wood for quite some time. I love how it plays off the tee - accurate when called upon, with enough distance to keep me in the hole. That said, I can’t remember the last time I played it from the fairway with any confidence. Seems I hit it thin or fat every time - never flush. That makes (just about) every par 5 a three-shot hole, even when a big drive puts me in position to go for the green in two.

I’ve tried other 3-woods. Unfortunately, the company that makes my current “gamer” recently announced it is getting out of the equipment business, so an upgrade within the brand isn’t a possibility.

I thought all hope was lost and I’d be doomed to a life of laying up with mid irons from the Go Position ... Then I was introduced to Air Foil 3-wood from Air Force One. This nitrogen-charged beauty is 15 degrees of heat.

Your first thought is probably, “What the hell does nitrogen charged mean?” It’s  Air Force One’s way of reinforcing the face of the club without adding weight.

“Compressed nitrogen provides tremendous support to the club face so every golfer can benefit from maximum C.O.R., maximum C.T., maximum Trampoline Effect, and Maximum Smash Factor for incredible distance,” the company claims.

Maximum C.O.R. - or Coefficient of Restitution - creates shots of a greater distance as a result of the flexing, and subsequent release, of stored energy, imparting greater impulse to the ball. In short ... More distance.

This technology isn’t new to Air Force One. Their driver is also nitrogen charged, but the beneficial trampoline effect is generally reduced with fairway woods because of the shallower club face. Enter “Air Foil technology.”

According to the company, “The Air Foil's dual slot wave design creates an accordion effect: The thin face flexes inward at impact, initiating the buildup of Nitrogen pressure inside the clubhead.

“Then a trampoline effect takes place, as the face is thrust back to its original position at a high velocity to generate rocketing ball speed and increased distance. The club design increases how fast the face flexes at impact, promoting faster ball speed across the face, which promotes consistently longer distance on every swing. The dual slot wave design creates a high launch angle with a tight dispersion, making an ideal fairway wood design for players who have difficulty hitting a 3-wood off the fairway. To further enhance shot performance, the nitrogen valve is positioned to increase MOI and create an optimum launch angle.”

It all makes sense from a scientific point of view, but I’m not a scientist. I’m a golfer.

We all know how much confidence comes into play on the golf course. If you think you’re going to hit a poor shot, you will hit a poor shot. Conversely, and preferably, if you feel good over the ball, chances are you’re going to hit a good shot. That said, adding the Air Force One Air Foil 3-wood to my bag gave me a jolt of confidence. At address, looking down at the twin slots reminded me to let the club do what it was designed to do - provide lift and distance.

After an afternoon of testing, two things were clear:
The Air Force One Air Foil 3-wood was easy to hit and provided greater distance off the tee, as well as off the deck; and
I’m not robot. Human error is a factor in any of my tests.

My old 3-wood travelled between 230-240 yards off the tee. Best-struck fairway shots went about 10 yards shorter. Unfortunately, “best-struck” shots were few and far between. With the N7, I added approximately 10 yards off the tee and saw very little drop-off from the fairway. Better than the gain in distance, I was achieving those results with less effort and the flight was nearly identical, shot after shot.

By all practical measures, the Air Foil 3-wood will allow me to dial down my tee shots when playing corridors become tight, without having to add much club to my approach shots. From the fairway, 500-yard par 5s have now become long par 4s and just about every par 5 I play is within reach if/when I connect on my driver. That’s exciting!

Air Force One also offers the Air Foil in a 19-degree 5-wood. Both cost $149.99.

Learn more at www.afogolf.com.

Friday, August 26, 2016

OGIO Golf's Fall Collection Designed for Golfers Who Have a Life Beyond Golf

2016 Fall Collection blends rich colors, clean styles and enhanced fabrics

(Draper, Utah) – The adrenaline-driven style, combined with intelligent design, can be found in every piece of the OGIO Golf Fall Apparel Collection and visible on OGIO’s team of PGA Tour ambassadors Aaron Baddeley (2016 Winner), Kevin Streelman (2015 Winner) and Chris Stroud.

“Today’s consumers are pressed for time, running from one activity to the next” commented Tom Gocke, Global Vice President. “Our vision was to create a collection of apparel that was advanced in its golf functionality, yet appropriately styled for a day in the office.”

The recently released 2016 Fall Collection features seven different styles of polos, all designed in a variety of rich colors, clean styles and enhanced fabrics.  Each of the twenty-one polos in the collection provide comfort and performance features like UV protection, free motion stretch infusion, moisture wicking, anti-bacterial protection and a self-collar with stay and stand.

The Fall Collection Polos were designed to complement the popular and stylish Knockdown pants. These lightweight, breathable and stretch-infused pants are constructed for the course, but styled for the street, with sleek lines in classic colors including black, mirage and lead. The polyester/spandex blended fabric provides moisture-wicking properties for cool, dry comfort. The stretch properties of this combination combined with the Gripper gel waistband ensures a perfect fit.

OGIO’s Fall Collection also has you covered when the sun goes down and the night air chills. The Kamden pullover, available in mulberry or black, features a chest zip pocket, a mid-weight free motion stretch-infused fabric and a concealed, contrasted ½ zip front. The Lachlan, available in lead/black, features a smooth face full zip front, complemented with a comfy, no pill, fleece backing, a right chest scorecard or glasses pocket and zippered side hand pockets.

“Our apparel line was designed specifically for golfers who have a life beyond golf” said Gocke. “As avid golfers ourselves, we knew we wanted to create a collection that transcended a traditional golf outfit.  Based on our growth in this category, I believe we’ve achieved that.”

The OGIO 2016 Fall Collection is available in premium golf and retail stores across the U.S. To view the entire collection, visit www.ogiogolf.com.

New Sun Mountain Golf Push Carts Improved for '17

Sun Mountain Speed Cart
(Missoula, Montana) – Since ushering in the golf push cart movement in 1999 with the introduction of the Speed Cart; Sun Mountain has continually refined and improved its carts. New for 2017 are the three-wheeled Speed Cart GT and four-wheeled Micro-Cart GT. Notable updates include a redesigned bag support that more easily accommodates golf stand bags and a new collection of add-on accessories. These new carts will be in golf shops in September with a suggested retail price of $209.99 for Speed Cart GT and $199.99 for Micro-Cart GT.

New for 2017, Speed Cart GT features a redesigned upper bag bracket to better hold golf stand bags plus top and bottom bungee straps to more securely hold the bag. The cart’s redesigned storage tray has a new mobile phone slot, a new drink holder, and an updated mesh basket. Speed Cart comes standard with an umbrella holder, scorecard holder, and padded storage tray.

Speed Cart GT folds down to W37” X H16” X D13” and weighs 17.25 lbs.

New on the Micro-Cart GT is a self-latching, lower bracket that clicks effortlessly into place when opening the cart and easily disengages when folding. An improved E-Z Latch on the upper bracket simplifies adjusting the handle height. Also new, is an upper bag bracket that has been redesigned to better hold stand bags. The new bracket also includes two bungee straps to more securely hold the golf bag. The front axle has also been improved with a no-tools-required system to extend the front axle by two inches to accommodate larger golf bags. The new Micro-Cart GT also offers an updated drink holder and new mesh basket to hold head covers, wind breakers, etc. Micro-Cart comes standard with an umbrella holder and a console with padded valuables compartment, magnetic scorecard holder, and pencil, ball, and tee holders.

Micro-Cart GT folds to: W27” X H17” X D13” and weighs 16.6 lbs.

There is also an ever growing collection of optional, add-on accessories including a water bottle cooler, range finder compartment, and cigar holder to go along with new cart covers and wheel covers.

For the nearest Sun Mountain retailer call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

Sand Ridge Golf Club Celebrates 18 Years of Signature Program Certification

(Chardon, OH) - Sand Ridge Golf Club was recently recertified as a Signature Sanctuary after an on-site review by Audubon International. Sand Ridge registered in the Signature Program in 1998 and recently passed its eighth on-site review. The golf course was the first club in the state of Ohio to earn and maintain its certification in the prestigious Audubon International Signature Program.

To become certified, Signature Program members must implement management of the property according to a site-specific Natural Resource Management Plan (NRMP) addressing wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water quality monitoring and management, integrated pest management, water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction and management, and green building products and procedures. Receiving designation as a Certified Signature Sanctuary is contingent upon the quality and completeness of the NRMP and its implementation.

To become recertified, members must provide an annual update. This includes documentation of education and outreach projects, results of water quality monitoring tests, list of pesticides used, and an on-site review by Audubon International staff.

Located only 30 miles east of Cleveland, Sand Ridge is home to 102 acres of high quality wetlands cared for by wetland specialist, Dr. Edward J.P. Hauser. Dr. Hauser has worked since 1993 to restore the wetlands to their original state by removing invasive woody species such as buckthorn. This restoration operation has transformed overgrown thickets into acres of flowering native plants including Joe-Pye Weed in the fall and marsh marigolds in the spring. “It is always a pleasure to visit Sand Ridge to see what is in bloom, what wildlife can be observed, or what project has just been completed. This year the focus was the restoration and functionality of the wetland system,” stated Nancy Richardson, Director of the Audubon International Signature Program during the recent visit.

In addition to general maintenance projects such cart path renovations, purchase of new equipment, bunker renovation, and storm water drainage projects, the environmental highlights of the property over the years include the following:

· Conservation Easement. All open space including over 100 acres of natural wetlands, 100 acres of uplands and created lakes, and the golf course are protected by a conservation easement held in perpetuity by the Western Reserve Conservancy of Northeast Ohio.

· Naturalized Acreage. Since 2000, approximately 65 acres of the original golf course footprint has been converted to upland open meadows. The annual savings is estimated to be about $65,000. Such eco-tones added new areas for food niches and microhabitats for invertebrate and vertebrate wildlife, especially insects, birds, and rodents.

· Bio-Diesel Fuel. All major internal combustion equipment now burns a B-20 fuel mixture which produces maximum engine performance, extends engine life, and reduces CO₂ emissions by 50%.

· Monarch Habitat. Hundreds of milkweed plants have been introduced into the meadow areas to provide habitat for the Monarch butterfly.

· Goose Management. A solar powered night-time blinking light helps keep Canada geese off of the course from dusk to dawn.

· Beaver Dam. Over the past years, the creation of open water zones by a beaver dam impoundment has created new habitat for plants such as Bottle Brush Sedge and Water Loosestrife. The loosestrife in particular has helped stabilize the beaver dam to protect the hydrology of this newly confirmed fen ecosystem.

· Invasive Plant Removal. Removal and eradication of invasive plants is necessary to prevent their encroachment and impact on native species. Eradication process of the invasive plant Purple Loosestrife begun in 2001 is now deemed successful. Buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) was prevalent particularly in hole #16 wetland so a manual eradication program was begun in 2001. Invasive species removal continues as a part of the management regime.

“We are very proud of our accomplishments with the Signature Program,” stated Brent Palich, Director of Golf Operations for Sand Ridge. “Prior to opening in 1998, the club and Audubon International set lofty goals for Sand Ridge. The course was not only expected to be one of Ohio’s best golf courses, but also a leader in environmental sustainability. The guidelines set by Audubon International helped us reach these goals over the last 18 years.”

About Sand Ridge Golf Club
Sand Ridge Golf Club, a Tom Fazio-designed 18 hole private golf course, sits in a region of the country known for its maple syrup and within the primary snow belt of northeastern Ohio on 359 acres in the western foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The 17th hole of the golf course is known as “Headwaters” because it is located in the headwater area for the Chagrin River and Cuyahoga River watersheds of Lake Erie.

About Audubon International
Audubon International is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) environmental education organization dedicated to providing people with the education and assistance they need to practice responsible management of land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources. To meet this mission, the organization provides training, services, and a set of award-winning environmental education and certification programs for individuals, organizations, properties, new developments, and entire communities. The Signature Program premiered in 1993 and is focused on promoting sound land management practices and appropriate land use changes based on sound scientific research. Signature Sanctuaries are currently located in 29 states and in Canada, Puerto Rico, China, Portugal, and Spain.

For more information, visit the website at www.auduboninternational.org.

Nexbelt Sponsors the 2016 World Amateur Handicap Championships in Myrtle Beach

(RANCHO CUCAMONGA) - Nexbelt, "The Fastest Growing Belt in Golf," announced that they are Primary Sponsors of the 2016 Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championships and will be exhibiting in the World's Largest 19th Hole Expo. The World Amateur Handicap Championships will be held in Myrtle Beach, SC August 29th through September 2nd.

As Primary Sponsors of the event, Nexbelt will be presenting one of its Golf Series belts to more than 3,000 participants who will be competing in the World Handicap Championships.

About The World's Largest 19th Hole
The World's Largest 19th Hole is by all accounts the world's largest golf tournament party. It's the heartbeat of the World Am golf event and covers most of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. It's equal parts food, fun, expo and all around good time! This nightly celebration is catered by the best restaurants in Myrtle Beach and provides free top-shelf drinks and live entertainment, in addition to presentations ranging from club testing to technical golf advice from PGA Professionals. Equal parts World Am headquarters, clubhouse grill, golf exhibition and party, the 19th Hole is where the 3000-plus golf tournament participants and their guests convene at the end of each day, sharing their competition golf experiences and hoping to see their name appear on the leaderboards that display current flight standings.

About the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championships
Congregating in Myrtle Beach will be more than 3,300 golfers from all 50 states and more than 25 foreign countries who share their love of the game and their drive to become world champion. The largest and most fun-filled amateur golf tournament on the planet was first played back in 1984 with 684 participants. Numerous celebrities have been part of the fun over the years, including Major League Baseball stars Roger Clemens and Tony Womack, LPGA champion Annika Sorenstam, NASCAR great Jeff Gordon, and CBS Sports and Golf Channel Commentator, David Feherty. The granddaddy of all such golf events features 72-holes of intense stroke play competition, a thrilling 18-hole championship playoff, lots of gifts and prizes, plus nightly parties and entertainment. And it remains one of the best values in competitive golf. But at the heart of its enduring success is the camaraderie among participants. This is where lifelong friendships are forged.
 
Nexbelt is the "The Fastest Growing Belt In Golf." Its team of Staff Professionals for 2016 includes PGA Tour Players, Jim Furyk, Kevin Na, Marc Leishman, Jason Bohn, Jarrod Lyle, Greg Chalmers and LPGA Tour Player Katie Burnett.

Nexbelt is known for their innovative technology and providing golfers with the maximum comfort and minimal adjusting. The unique ratcheting system called PreciseFit allows the wearer to adjust the belt in ¼ inch increments, providing the golfer with the best fit, feel, and fashion.

Nexbelt is 100% committed to offering its customers superior customer service and the most innovative and technologically advanced products available.

Nexbelt's DRIVE Vision ...
Deliver what we Promise with Integrity.
Retain the Human touch
Invest in Good People generously.
Value our Customers Unconditionally.
Embrace Change with Innovation.

For more information about Nexbelt, visit www.Nexbelt.com.

Hall-of-Fame Baseball Play-by-Play Voice Bob Uecker to Join Feherty Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET

Uecker Reflects on a 45-Year Career in Broadcasting; how he Propositioned Bud Selig into Letting him Take Part in Miller Lite Commercials
 
(ORLANDO, Fla.) – 45-year veteran baseball Hall-of-Fame broadcaster Bob Uecker will join Feherty on Tuesday (Aug. 30) at 10 p.m. ET to reflect on a life and career centered around the baseball diamond. A native of Milwaukee, he has served as the play-by-play voice of his hometown Milwaukee Brewers since 1971 after retiring as a major league catcher, where he was a member of the Milwaukee Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves. Uecker also is known for his role in the “Major League” movies, and over the course of the interview he effortlessly showcases his quick wit and a knack for storytelling.

Topics discussed include:
- His more than 100 guest appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and earning the title “Mr. Baseball” from Carson
- How he propositioned Bud Selig – owner of the Milwaukee Brewers at the time – into letting him take part in Miller Lite commercials, and how it ultimately helped lead to the strong partnership between the Brewers and Miller Lite that exists today.
- How he thought he ruined pitcher Sandy Koufax’s chances at the Hall of Fame after hitting a home run off of him
- The similarities between the golf swing and a baseball swing

Upcoming Guests this Season
Other upcoming guests on Feherty scheduled for this fall include Pro Football Hall-of-Famers Emmitt Smith (Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 10 p.m. ET) and Cris Carter (Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 10 p.m. ET), and 2014 European Ryder Cup team captain Paul McGinley (Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 10 p.m. ET).