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Product Review: Cure RX2 Putter Customization and proper fitting are extremely popular in today’s golf industry. Off-the-rack drivers offer multiple, easy-to-adjust lofts and face angles, while countless charts and graphs will help you determine whether you’re playing the right ball for your game (as opposed to blindly trusting what Tour players are playing).

Considering how important putting is to going low, Cure Putters may offer the most critical piece of equipment available - the RX2. The ideal fit for your individual stroke is fairly easy to achieve with the RX2’s wide range of weight and lie adjustability. Upon arrival, the first thing I adjusted was the lie. By loosening a few screws on the bottom and back of the putter, I was able to match my ideal angle. With an adjustable lie angle between 62 and 80 degrees, both upright and flat strokes are accounted for.

Easy, right? Adjusting the weight is just as simple. The RX2 comes with eight weights - four aluminum and four stainless steel (two 1/8” and 1/4” each). Remove the two screws on the back and add or subtract weight, accordingly. Weight ranges from 371 grams with no added weights to 512 grams with one of each. An extended weight kit can also be purchased. Cure suggests putting with the most weight within your comfort zone. This adds to the MOI and reduces the effects of off-center hits.

Want even more versatility? How about easily swapping shafts to turn a right-handed putter into a lefty? Try doing that with anything outside the ancient Bullseye putter.

Other features of the RX2 include:
* Higher Center of Gravity
* Lower loft
* Deeper face

The lower loft and deeper face impact the ball at the equator, which virtually eliminates backspin and creates a lower, more consistent launch angle and quicker, tighter forward roll. In other words ... No more skidding off the club face. The ball gets on its intended line sooner.

One thing I needed to research a bit was Deane Beman's “Triangulation Alignment System,” which Cure says provides “greater accuracy and consistency.” The former PGA Tour commissioner - a very good player over his amateur and professional careers - wasn’t making as many putts as before and didn’t think it had to do with his stroke or ability to read the greens. The Triangulation Alignment System (at address, the ball and two weights form a triangle) greatly assisted with properly aiming at the target.

A good read, followed by a good stroke with good speed could still be missed with poor aim. Frustrating, but the Triangulation Alignment System is designed to assist with your eyes and putter face agreeing on the correct line.

The RX2 is a unique putter. It’s unlike many of the popular putters on the market today, but not gimmicky. The feel of the ball leaving the club face is silky soft and, though the RX2 is a blade design, it provides many of the benefits of a mallet.

There may not be a more-polarizing club than the putter. Like anything else, what works for one player, may not work for another. You need to be able to look down at the ball and feel as though you’ve already made the putt. With no confidence in your “flat stick,” this is easier said than done.

If you’re unhappy with your current putter, you owe it to yourself to take the Cure RX2 out for a test drive. If you like the look and trust the feel, you may have found yourself a new best friend on the course.

Check out all Cure Putters has at www.cureputters.com.
Posted by Blogger at 8:25 PM No comments: 
New $7 Million Tower Renovation Unveiled at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

(ACME, MI) – With the completion of a $7 million renovation of guest rooms in its 17-story glass-encased tower, the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has positioned itself solidly as a player in the top tier of national resorts competing for corporate, association and leisure business. The remake of the rooms in the tallest building in Northern Michigan also caps a $34 million investment in improving all aspects of the facility by its owners, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Everything in the rooms, from bathroom fixtures, tile, window treatments, carpeting, and bedding were taken out and replaced in an updating that was based in part on feedback on the preferences of resort guests, said Timothy Norman, the resort’s general manager.

Norman said management is delighted with the reaction returning and first time guests have expressed about the improvements.

“The renovation has brought us up to date and will allow us to meet or exceed our guests’ expectations while at the same time giving Northern Michigan a product that competes nationally for both corporate and association business,” Norman said. “It also will give us a boost with the travelers or visitors we are trying to get to come to the region to experience the water, the wineries, the food, the golf, and all the other attractions that show we are just a great place to vacation. We are excited about what these rooms will allow us to target and promote for the future.”

The project was designed by Niemann Interiors, a Winter Park, Fla., firm with extensive design experience in the hospitality and hotel industry. The tower remained open as work proceeded floor by floor.

Even as the resort celebrates the tower’s revival, Norman said he is deep into plans about what comes next.

“When you have over 900 acres and 186 tower rooms you are never done. There is always something else to be done,” he said. “We are already in the works for next year’s plans. We are in the middle of working with ownership on a five year plan so we are always revamping and looking at what’s next and we are working on next year’s budget right now, setting those goals, and deciding what areas we are going to next work on that are not guest rooms.”

The attention to the tower rooms comes after a two-year stretch of renovations of the other original 240 hotel rooms in the six-story section of the complex where $2.7 million was spent on new carpet, bedding, furniture, and flat screen televisions. In addition fire suppression sprinklers were installed throughout that part facility to bring it up to local code requirements that were not in place when the hotel was built.

Every area of the resort, from a $4 million reconfiguration and rebuild of the parking lot, to new cart paths and other improvements on the golf courses, has seen upgrades.

While those improvements visitors can readily see, other expensive technological advances such as three miles of underground fiber-optic cable installed throughout the property improved high speed Wi-Fi internet access for guests.

“We put in a whole new fire sprinkler system, one that did not exist in the old hotel,” Norman said. “An entirely new heating and cooling system was installed for the tower. Although those are things that guests don’t necessarily touch and feel they are million dollar expenditures.”

The resort offers 86,500 square feet of meeting space, half a dozen dining choices, including the upscale flagship Aerie Restaurant & Lounge on the tower’s 16th floor, a 100,000 square foot indoor outdoor health club, the 7,000 square foot Spa Grand Traverse with 23 treatment rooms, five indoor tennis courts, and a 15,000-square foot indoor water playground.

“The ownership has demonstrated over the past 11 years that year in year out they are committed to maintaining and improving the resort,” Norman said. They continually reinvest in the product and have committed every year with the budget to maintain a minimum level of improvements and every few years they have approved a big expenditure like the tower renovation.”

Fore more information: www.grandtraverseresort.com.
Posted by Blogger at 5:00 PM No comments: Labels: Courses

Course Spotlight: Hawthorne Valley Country Club I played and rated a course - Hawthorne Valley in Solon, Ohio - today for Golfweek. Ratings will go on a particular website, but I was curious to hear opinions about having a tree in a green-side bunker (No. 10). By the looks of it, the tree isn't in great shape. Should they remove it?
Posted by Blogger at 3:58 PM No comments: Labels: Course Spotlight


Eight PGA Professionals to be Chronicled in CBS Special, 'The Road to the PGA Championship' Show Debuts Aug. 2

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – The PGA of America’s annual CBS Special, “The Road to the PGA Championship,” focuses on eight competitors in the 97th PGA Championship at Whistling Straits, including defending PGA Champion Rory McIlroy, and 12-time PGA Tour winner Steve Stricker.

CBS will debut “The Road to the PGA Championship” nationally on Sunday, Aug. 2, from 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., with three separate one-hour rebroadcasts on the Golf Channel taking place Aug. 5 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Aug. 6 at 5 a.m. (all times ET).

The Road to the PGA Championship chronicles the journey of two-time PGA Professional National Champion Matt Dobyns, of Lake Success, New York, whose victory at the 48th PGA Professional National Championship was highlighted by a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole. Dobyns will be playing in his second PGA Championship.

In addition to Dobyns, five PGA Club Professionals who are competing at Whistling Straits are profiled in the program, including:
* Brian Cairns of Walled Lake, Michigan
* Ryan Helminen of Menasha, Wisconsin
* Jeff Olson of Delaware, Ohio
* Ben Polland of Manhasset, New York
* Bob Sowards of Dublin, Ohio

Wyatt Worthington II of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, a PGA Golf Management University graduate who missed a berth in this year’s PGA Championship in a playoff, is also featured.

The PGA Professionals highlighted instructing and mentoring their PGA Tour students are:
* Dennis Tiziani, Steve Stricker’s father-in-law
* Michael Bannon, a long-standing member of the PGA of Great Britain & Ireland, who has worked with World #1 Rory McIlroy for nearly two decades

The program also features prominent representatives to speak on behalf of Whistling Straits: Herb Kohler, Executive Chairman of Kohler Co.; Pete Dye, Hall of Fame golf course designer;
and Jim Richerson, PGA General Manager and Group Director of Golf for Kohler Co.

The PGA Championship is one of the premier golf events conducted by the PGA of America. Others include the Ryder Cup and the Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid. The PGA Championship perennially features the strongest field, the fairest set-up and deepest international lineup of any major golf championship. The 2015 PGA Championship will feature one of the largest purses of any major championship ($10 million). Since 1916, golf's best professionals have won the PGA Championship, including: Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Vijay Singh, Raymond Floyd, Lee Trevino, Jack Nicklaus, Sam Snead, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Gene Sarazen and Walter Hagen.

For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGAMediaCenter.com.
Posted by Blogger at 2:28 PM No comments: Labels: Professionals, Tournaments

GolfBoard Now Available at Mauna Kea Resort

First Resort on Big Island to Introduce Fleet of Surf-Inspired, Motorized Golf Vehicles

(BEND, OR) – GolfBoard – the first and only substantive, surf-inspired, motorized golf vehicle built specifically for the sport – is now available at Mauna Kea Resort’s award-winning Mauna Kea Golf Course and Hapuna Golf Course. The first on the Big Island to offer GolfBoards, the resort’s fleet of 24 is the largest of any facility in Hawaii. GolfBoarders will surf the earth as they travel from shot to shot allowing them to fully experience the diverse volcanic terrain of the iconic courses.

“Not only is Mauna Kea a world-class destination, it’s an ideal setting for GolfBoarding,” says Jeff Dowell, President of GolfBoard. “Having a partner with such a storied heritage is an ideal platform for our brand.”

Conceived by Bally Total Fitness Founder Don Wildman and legendary surfer Laird Hamilton, GolfBoarding is an entirely new way to traverse the golf course. The four-wheeled board allows users to turn by simply shifting their body weight in a carving motion akin to snowboarding or surfing.

“We’re introducing GolfBoards to appeal to younger players by allowing them to surf the earth,” says Josh Silliman, Director of Golf at Mauna Kea. “Additionally, we hope avid players will enjoy a fast, fun and active golf experience.”

Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, GolfBoards are ultra-durable and built with a safety-first mantra to provide golfers a more active alternative to riding in a cart.

Early adopters of GolfBoard have seen an increase in rounds played, revenue and an improvement in pace of play. Advanced technology allows GolfBoarders to customize board settings and configurations to their riding preference including adjusting speed settings from 6 to 14 mph via simple, one-touch stability bar switch.

Available since April 2014, in addition to Mauna Kea, GolfBoard is now offered at almost 100 courses in the US, Canada, and Mexico. More than 300 additional private, daily-fee and resort courses are scheduled for product delivery over the next 90 days, and hundreds of individual golfers – including PGA Tour stars and A-List celebrities – have purchased units.

More information: www.GolfBoard.com, 888.328.2841 and www.PrinceResortsHawaii.com.
Posted by Blogger at 12:00 PM No comments: Labels: Courses, Products

Buffalo Brand Invigoration Group to Promote ‘Youth on Course’

(RESTON, VA) – Youth on Course has selected Buffalo Brand Invigoration Group to manage a publicity and media relations campaign that stimulates nationwide growth for the non-profit organization. Providing children and teens with special access to golf and its numerous benefits, Youth on Course has engaged nearly 15,000 youngsters through a curriculum emphasizing healthy lifestyles, academic success, and college and career development.

Buffalo will promote Youth on Course’s affordable green fees of $5 or less, college scholarships and mentorship opportunities through paid internships and caddie initiatives. Since 2011, fundraising has led to roughly 380,000 subsidized rounds of golf and more than $600,000 in educational awards.

Youth on Course started in northern California, expanded statewide and extended into Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and Utah.

“The rapid adoption and success of Youth on Course in California and western states means growth across America is within reach,” says Adam Heieck, Executive Director of Youth on Course. “Buffalo is the ideal partner to help spread the word and help make this goal a reality."

"Empowering young people is essential to strengthening golf for future generations,” says Rich Katz, Managing Director of Buffalo. “Youth on Course has built a scalable framework to impact even more lives, and Buffalo is poised to share their inspirational stories.”

Headquartered in Reston, VA, Buffalo has offices in New York, Boston, Denver, Minneapolis, Raleigh and Richmond. Its public relations, strategy development, integrated marketing, social media and design work in the golf, sport and lifestyle sectors increases awareness, market share and profits for companies and organizations operating in more than 40 countries. The LPGA, World Golf Foundation, Nicklaus Brands, ECCO, ARCCOS Golf, Galvin Green, GolfBoard, PGA National Resort & Spa, Sea Pines Resort, BOYNE Golf, Telluride Ski & Golf Resort and the Kauai Visitors Bureau are among Buffalo’s clients.

Additional information: www.youthoncourse.org, 831.625.4653; www.BuffaloBIG.com, 703.761.1444.
Posted by Blogger at 11:10 AM No comments: Labels: Growing the Game, Industry News

Golf Channel Posts Most-Watched July Ever Golf Channel Remains No. 1 Most-Affluent Network in All of Television for Both Total Day and Primetime in July

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Fueled by its most-watched Open Championship Week on-record, Golf Channel has posted its most-watched July ever and served 14.1 million unique viewers (+7% YOY). A record 112,000 viewers per minute tuned into Golf Channel in July (Mon-Sun 6AM-6AM), representing a 20% year-over-year increase compared to July 2014 (93,000) according to data released by The Nielsen Company.

2015: 112,000
2014: 93,000 (+20%)
2013: 95,000 (+18%)
2012: 95,000 (+18%)
2011: 70,000 (+60%)
2010: 72,000 (+56%)

Additionally, Golf Channel retained its status in July as No. 1 most-affluent network in all of television with the highest median household income for total day viewership (No. 2 VH1 Classic, No. 3 CNBC round out the top three networks for this metric). Golf Channel also was the No. 1 most-affluent network in all of television in primetime (No. 2 VH1 Classic, No. 3 E! Entertainment).

While monthly digital traffic data is not final until the end of the calendar month and will include two days of live coverage of the Quicken Loans National, Golf Channel Digital’s traffic through Tuesday, July 28 already has set several monthly records, according to Adobe Site Catalyst:
* Golf Channel Digital 96.4 million page views (+51% YOY) – Best Month Ever Record
* Golf Channel Digital 18.1 million visits (+39% YOY) – Best Month Ever Record
* GolfChannel.com 6.0 million unique visitors (+9% YOY)

Additionally, 8.8 million minutes (+96% YOY) of digital content has been streamed via Golf Live Extra and 24/7 players on mobile and desktop devices through July 28.

Golf Channel and Golf Channel on NBC will carry momentum of this record viewership and traffic into the final stretch of the golf season, with a slate of live golf coverage and in-depth news and analysis, including:
* PGA Championship Week (August 10-16): Golf Channel will televise nearly 60 hours of live news coverage surrounding the 2015 PGA Championship from Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, beginning Monday, Aug. 10. Golf Central’s Live From the PGA Championship will lead the network’s programming throughout the week, with live reports, analysis and developing storylines from the final men’s major championship of the season.
* The FedExCup Playoffs (Beginning Thursday, Aug. 27): The PGA TOUR season culminates with the four-event FedExCup Playoffs, with $10 million being awarded to the 2015 FedExCup Champion. Golf Channel and Golf Channel on NBC will provide viewers with exclusive coverage of the Playoffs, beginning with The Barclays (Aug. 27-30: Plainfield, N.J. - First and Second Round coverage / Early-Round Weekend Coverage); the Deutsche Bank Championship (Sept. 4-7: Norton, Mass.); the BMW Championship (Sept. 17-20: Lake Forest, Ill.) and the TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola (Sept. 24-27: Atlanta, Ga.)
* The Evian Championship (Sept. 10-13): The fifth and final major on the LPGA Tour schedule, the Evian Championship in France will air live on Golf Channel beginning Thursday, Sept. 10, and the conclusion of Final Round play will air Sunday, Sept. 13 on NBC.
* The Solheim Cup (Sept. 18-20): The 14th edition of the biennial International Match Play competition pits the top female golfers from the United States against Europe’s best. Golf Channel’s live coverage begins on Friday, Sept. 18 in Germany and the United States team will look to avenge their first loss ever on home soil after falling to the Europeans at Colorado Golf Club in 2013.
* The Presidents Cup (Oct. 8-11): Jack Nicklaus Golf Club in South Korea will play host to the 11th Presidents Cup, a biennial International competition between the Unites States and the rest of the world (outside of Europe). Golf Channel will air live overnight coverage of all four days of competition beginning Thursday, Oct. 8, and NBC will air highlights on Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 10-11.
Posted by Blogger at 10:48 AM No comments: 
WellPutt to be Sold in The Golf Warehouse

Collection of Innovative Training Aids for Putting and Full-Swing Play to be Available in TGW Retail Store and on TGW Website (JUPITER, Florida) – WellPutt, a collection of training aids that are original, innovative and effective for golfers of all skill levels, will be available for purchase at TGW (The Golf Warehouse), both online and in the retail store, in Wichita, Kan. TGW will carry WellPutt training aids, including the award-winning Welling Putt Mat, favored by instructors and golfers who prefer to practice putting indoors. Welling Putt Mat won the 2013 Golf Europe ProductAward in the training-aid category. WellPutt’s Arc to Arc 5, for improving the technicality of one’s putting stroke, also will be sold at TGW.

“Golfers now will have the opportunity to see, try and purchase WellPutt training aids at TGW retail store,” said Laurent-Alix Huguet, CEO of H4Distribution, which distributes WellPutt products across the U.S. “WellPutt also will be available for purchase on tgw.com.

“We are pleased to provide these additional purchasing options to players everywhere who are discovering the extraordinary merits of the WellPutt line of training aids.”

WellPutt training aids are designed to help golfers refine both their putting and full-swing strokes, and boost their confidence around the greens and throughout the golf course. After honing their play with WellPutt training aids, golfers can execute with a new degree of accuracy on the links.

WellPutt training aids allow golfers to engage in purposeful practice that is simple and efficient while producing noticeable results.

For more information, see www.tgw.com and www.h4distribution.com/wellputt.
Posted by Blogger at 10:36 AM No comments: Labels: Products, Retail


Sunice Appoints New Special Markets Senior Sales & Business Development Manager

(Montreal, Quebec) - Sunice (www.sunice.com) announced that John Furnish has joined the company to develop and manage the "Special Markets / Promotional" business within North America. John Furnish comes to Sunice with a wealth of experience within the "Special Markets / Promotional" apparel industry having spent over 20 years in the business with companies including; Guru Sportswear, The Promotional Specialists, GEAR For Sports and Reebok.

"I am excited and proud to begin this new challenge of developing the Sunice brand within the North American promotional marketplace." said John and added: "Sunice is the perfect fit for the growing trend within this business towards retail brands that offer a significant value proposition. I feel fortunate to be joining such a respected company that prides itself on premier quality products and service."

Conrad Tappert, President of Sunice said, "John's wealth of experience and industry knowledge in the "Special Markets / Promotional" market is a key addition to the Sunice family. We view his appointment as a sign of our commitment to developing the business within this market. With our new operating and customer service systems combined with the demand for Sunice products in the "Special Markets / Promotional" market led us to look for an addition to our growing team. I'm confident that John will play a key role in developing the Sunice business in this market."
Posted by Blogger at 9:40 PM No comments: Labels: Industry News, People

DST Golf’s Compressor Used by RBC Canadian Open, Omega European Masters Champions

DST Users Win Three Tournaments in One Day - including the Le Vaudreuil Golf Challenge

(SALISBURY, England) – DST Golf – developer and manufacturer of ground breaking warm up clubs that benefit players of all skill levels – confirms that Danny Willett, Ryan Fox and the winner of the RBC Canadian Open all practice for tournament play with DST Golf’s Compressor warm-up clubs. DST Golf has reached an unprecedented milestone in the golf industry, with more than 200 PGA and European Tour players trusting the revolutionary warm-up clubs to prepare for competition play. Designed with a scientifically-curved shaft to help golfers locate, train and perfect the Optimal Impact Position, DST clubs have become a common sight on driving ranges worldwide. In the past two months alone, DST Compressor usage has increased on Tour by over 50 percent, making it the No. 1 training club among top players and coaches alike.

“We want to congratulate these top players on their well-deserved wins and delight in the fact that they trust our clubs to optimize their performance,” says Bertie Cordle, founder and CEO of DST Golf, “With the Compressor, players of any skill level will immediately feel if their hands are not in the correct position at impact. The club effectively enables golfers to experience what the correct compression of the ball should feel like.”

Popular also among top ranked swing coaches, the curved shaft of the Compressor is engineered to replicate the shape of a normal shaft in the optimal impact position. This unique design helps golfers learn how to control the club face through impact and compress the ball, which leads to improved consistency, control and accuracy. Additionally, the club’s “Hand Position Alignment Marker” ensures players replicate the optimal impact position at set-up, thus simplifying the swing and ingraining the muscle memory needed to consistently achieve this scientifically-proven ideal position.

Developed by a former European Challenge Tour player after years of research on the biomechanics of impact, the DST Compressor teaches the golfer two things: how to swing the club on plane and how to maintain tension in the shaft until after impact. These are the two critical aspects to achieve better ball striking, control, consistency and accuracy.

For more information and access to in-depth technology videos, visit www.dstgolf.com.
Posted by Blogger at 3:07 PM No comments: Labels: Products, Professionals

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend with Flights of Golf, Food, Drink, Repeat

Colonial Williamsburg Third Annual Taste Tradition + Classic Golf

(Williamsburg, Va.) – Colonial Williamsburg’s third annual Taste Tradition weekend presents the finest food, vintage wines, craft beers and spirited cocktails, farm-raised meats, seafood from local waters and herbs and vegetables straight from the gardens in the Historic Area, Sept. 4-6. With more than a dozen special events from which to select, there is plenty of time to work in a round or two of golf on Golden Horseshoe Gold, Green and Spotswood Courses between flights of food and drink. The Local Palate, the South’s premiere food culture publication, hosts a “Brew ‘N’ Cue Showdown” open exclusively to guests staying on Colonial Williamsburg’s Taste Tradition hotel package.  Southern pit masters from four states join Colonial Williamsburg chefs for the ultimate barbecue cook-off – and the guests help determine the winners in three categories: best barbecue, best beer and best chef creation dish.

Golden Horseshoe’s classic Gold Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. more than 50 years ago, is steps away from the culinary happenings.  The adjacent Green Course, designed by his son Rees Jones 25 years ago, represent the first father-son layout in the country.  Jones Senior also designed the popular executive length Spotswood Course.

The Golden Horseshoe is set in a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary on gently rolling terrain surrounded by Virginia hardwoods and no encroaching residential development. Revenue from golf play on the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club’s three public courses supports the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s conservation, preservation, research and education initiatives.

The Taste Tradition two-night hotel package starts at $152 per person per night and includes accommodations at the Williamsburg Lodge, a special gift from Colonial Williamsburg chefs, tickets to two events open exclusively to Taste Tradition hotel package guests – a welcome reception featuring a taste of Spain with tapas and wine, and tickets to the Brew ‘N’ Cue Showdown. Green fees are additional.

Information about the hotel package and special event bundling prices is available by calling 855-296-6627 or online at www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/do/special-events/taste-tradition.  Golf tee times at Golden Horseshoe may be arranged by calling 888-965-7254 online at www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/golf.
Posted by Blogger at 12:03 PM No comments: Labels: Courses, Tournaments

Golf Industry Veteran Host Matt Adams Joining Golf Channel

Adams to Contribute to Golf Channel’s Programs and Digital Platforms, including Golf Central, Morning Drive, GolfChannel.com and Golf Advisor

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Golf Channel announced today that longtime golf industry voice Matt Adams has joined the network, where he will contribute to several Golf Channel on-air programs and digital platforms. Adams joins Golf Channel’s roster of on-air personalities, and will continue to serve as host of the award-winning Fairways of Life satellite radio show, heard live around the world weekdays from 7-9 a.m. ET on SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio (XM ch. 93, Sirius ch. 208).

In his new role, Adams will become a contributor to several Golf Channel programs available around the world, including Golf Central and Morning Drive, and on Golf Central’s “Live From” programming from golf’s marquee events, and additionally will serve as a contributing writer for GolfChannel.com and Golf Advisor, the leading golf course review site for golfers, by golfers. Fairways of Life also will transition its show production to originate from Golf Channel’s World Headquarters in Orlando, Fla. The digital studio – which is located across the hall from Studio AP, the home of Morning Drive – will provide Adams with additional access to some of the biggest names in golf.

“Adding Matt Adams’ experienced voice on all aspects of the golf industry, from his insight on the professional tours to the latest trends affecting local golf courses and amateurs, will strengthen Golf Channel’s ability to serve golf fans with the best in high-quality news, analysis and discussion,” said Molly Solomon, executive producer of Golf Channel.

“I share a passion for all aspects of the game with Golf Channel’s commentators and production team, and look forward to adding my perspective to the conversation on their marquee news shows, as well as contribute to Golf Channel Digital outlets like GolfChannel.com and Golf Advisor,” said Matt Adams.

The multi-talented Adams, a best-selling author, journalist, speaker, historian and broadcaster, has worked in and followed the golf industry for more than 25 years, and has been heralded by legends of the game as one of the best interviewers in golf. He has co-authored multiple books in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, but considers golf his primary profession and passion. An expert in golf equipment technology, Adams has built and designed clubs for major manufacturers, including Nicklaus, MacGregor, Ram and Wilson, and previously worked as a golf course operator.
Posted by Blogger at 9:55 AM 1 comment: Labels: Industry News, TV

Fowler, Woods Headline Field at the Quicken Loans National (ORLANDO, Fla.) – The PGA TOUR is in Northern Virginia for the Quicken Loans National, headlined by Rickie Fowler and Tiger Woods. Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville hosts the event for the first time, after previously staging four Presidents Cups between 1994 and 2005.

The Champions Tour is in Minnesota for the 3M Championship, which will include the annual “Greats of Golf Challenge” on Saturday featuring Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Annika Sorenstam and Nancy Lopez, among others.

The Utah Championship will air in primetime on the Web.com Tour, which also will be staged at a new venue – Thanksgiving Point – designed by Johnny Miller.

And the European Tour is in Scotland for the inaugural Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play, with a 64-man field competing in a single-elimination match play format.

Quicken Loans National
Dates: July 30-Aug. 2
Venue: Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, Gainesville, Va.

Broadcast Notes:
New venue: This is the ninth playing of the Quicken Loans National, but the first time that it is being contested at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, which previously hosted four editions of the Presidents Cup in 1994, ’96, ‘00 and ’05. This also will be the first time that the event appears on the PGA TOUR schedule after the Open Championship.

Rose defends: Justin Rose defeated Shawn Stefani with a par on the first playoff hole at Congressional Country Club for his sixth PGA TOUR win.

Headlining the field: Rickie Fowler, Justin Rose, Jimmy Walker, Tiger Woods, Justin Thomas, Ernie Els, Bill Haas, Tony Finau, Ollie Schniederjans, Sangmoon Bae and Gary Woodland.

Golf Channel Broadcast Team:
- Play by Play: Terry Gannon
- Analyst: Nick Faldo
- Tower: Matt Gogel
- On-Course: Jim Gallagher Jr. / Jerry Foltz
- Interviews: Todd Lewis
Posted by Blogger at 8:03 AM 1 comment: Labels: Professionals, Tournaments, TV

Band of Heroes Selects The Media Group to Manage its Public Relations Efforts (Nashville, TN) - Band of Heroes (www.BandofHeroes.org), a non-profit organization engaged in the fight to manage Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and put an end to the 22 veteran suicides occurring each day in the United States, announced that it has selected The Media Group, a creative services agency based out of Chicago, Illinois, to manage all Band of Heroes Public Relations and Communications efforts. About Band of Heroes
Band of Heroes is committed to offering hope and healing to brothers- and sisters-in-arms struggling with the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Through progressive programs and partnerships with other organizations, BOH will offer hope and healing to those deserving men and women who have sacrificed for the greatest nation on Earth. Band of Heroes lives by the motto, They Died for Us... We LIVE for Them.

For more information about Band of Heroes and to help, visit www.BandOfHeroes.org.
Posted by Blogger at 7:56 AM No comments: Labels: Charity


Speaker of the House John Boehner Talks Golf, Politics, Presidents on Next Episode of Feherty (ORLANDO, Fla.) – Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and avid golfer John Boehner sits down with David Feherty – one of the most recognizable and unique personalities in sports – for a wide-ranging interview about his life, career and love for golf on the next episode of Feherty, Golf Channel’s primetime interview series, Aug. 3 at 10 p.m. ET.

Shot at Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio, and from his office at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, Boehner – a five-handicap prior to being named Speaker of the House – reflects on his passion for golf and life lessons learned from the game; his political career and future aspirations; and reveals his emotional side – “Boehner moments” as he calls them – when discussing children, the military and veterans. Feherty also spends time with Boehner walking the halls of Congress and visiting the office of the highest ranking official in the Legislative branch of government.

A native of Southwest Ohio, Boehner also discusses the honor in early 2015 of presenting the Congressional Gold Medal to his golf hero, Jack Nicklaus. He opens up to Feherty about future political aspirations – including the possibility of running for President – as well as his work to advocate for the American military both at home and abroad. He also recounts playing golf with the commanders-in-chief, including Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Gerald Ford and Barack Obama.

Select Boehner Quotes from the Interview:

On his golf match with President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and Ohio Governor John Kasich:
“It was Father’s Day weekend. The President and I had talked about playing golf but I never got the invitation. So after I became Speaker, the President finally gave me a formal invitation, and he told me, ‘It is going to be the Vice President and myself, and you bring a partner. So I bring my longtime friend, John Kasich, the Governor of Ohio.”

“President Obama shows up, we are getting ready to putt a few, and he says, ‘Boehner, you and I are partners. We are going to take these guys [Gov. John Kasich and Vice President Joe Biden] on. I thought John Kasich was going to cry. So the President and I whipped up on them pretty good and they paid up.”

“As soon as we got in the cart I said, Mr. President, just remember something, this is just golf.”

On Playing Golf in the Future with President Obama
“The President has suggested, ‘Hey, do you think it is too much trouble to play golf again?’ I have to look at him and say, ‘Yes, because everybody gets bent out of shape worried about what we are up to, when all we are really going to do is just play golf.’”

On Presenting Hall-of-Famer Jack Nicklaus with the Congressional Gold Medal
“I was proud of it. Difficult. The day we gave Jack the gold medal was an emotional day for all of us.”

“He was my hero. I have watched virtually every golf tournament on TV for the last 40 years. I don’t watch much TV but I watch a lot of golf. He was my hero, but he also is a big hero in Ohio and one of the greatest heroes golf has ever had.”

On Life Lessons Learned on the Golf Course
“Perseverance and Patience. Probably one of the secrets to my tenure as Speaker is just to be patient. Listen to everyone and try to understand. It takes an awful lot of patience.”

On how Boehner Wants to be Remembered
“Fair, decent and honest. I treat my colleagues – Democrat and Republican – the same. Nobody more open and transparent in Washington, D.C. than I am. At the end of the day, that is the way I ran my business and the way I run my political life. Just tell people upfront the facts and the truth.”

On why he Loves the Game of Golf
“Golf for me is more of an escape. It is an escape from all of the other things going on because when you are trying to hit that little white ball, you don’t have time to think about anything else.”

On if he Would Run for President
“You’ve got to either have a very special calling or be an ego maniac to want to do this [President of the United States]. On top of that, I smoke cigarettes, I drink red wine, I play golf, I cut my own grass and I wash and iron my own shirts. I’m not giving that up to be President of the United States.”

Emmy-nominated David Feherty, described as “a cross between Oprah Winfrey and Johnny Carson” by The New York Times as host of Golf Channel’s hit, original series, Feherty, conducts interviews both heartfelt and irreverent – a trademark of one of television’s most irrepressible personalities. Earning critical acclaim for his refreshing interviewing style, the self-deprecating Feherty employs his laid back approach when sitting down with the most recognized names in entertainment, politics and sports to bring out laughs and an often seldom seen emotional side from his guests. He also makes a habit of engaging in his guests’ favorite places and activities to help capture the location of each episode.

Season five of Feherty will continue Aug. 17, when Feherty visits two-time major champion and renowned golf instructor Dave Stockton. Additional upcoming guests include World Golf Hall-of-Famer Judy Rankin (Aug. 24); college football national championship-winning coaching icons, South Carolina’s Steve Spurrier (Sept. 23) and Alabama’s Nick Saban (Sept. 30); and Paul McGinley (Oct. 14), golfer and captain of the winning European Ryder Cup team in 2014.

Feherty originally debuted in June 2011 as the most-watched original series in Golf Channel history. Emmy nominated in 2014 for Outstanding Sports Personality, Feherty has gone one-on-one with celebrities across golf, sports and entertainment, including former President Bill Clinton, basketball Hall-of-Famers Bill Russell and Charles Barkley, sportscasters Al Michaels and Dan Patrick, actors Don Cheadle and Samuel L. Jackson, and golfers Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino and Michelle Wie.
Posted by Blogger at 5:21 PM No comments: Labels: People, TV

Course Review: Sleepy Hollow in Brecksville, Ohio

Writing a review of a golf course generally follows a basic formula. Items can be shifted around, but mostly include who designed the course and when it opened, as well as course condition, characteristics (long vs. short, number of bunkers, water features, greens speeds, etc.) and describing a few “signature” holes. Some courses come with interesting back stories, however, which make them even more interesting to write about. Enter Sleepy Hollow in Brecksville, Ohio.

Owned and operated by the Cleveland Metroparks, Sleepy Hollow was designed by the legendary Stanley Thompson, a member of the Royal Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and opened as a private country club in 1924. In 1963, it was opened to public play.

To me, the most interesting part of Sleepy Hollow’s history began in 1975. That’s when Charlie Sifford began his time as the course professional. Referred as the Jackie Robinson of golf by Lee Trevino, Sifford was the first African American to play on the PGA Tour - winning the Greater Hartford Open in 1967 and the Los Angeles Open in 1969. He also won the United Golf Association's National Negro Open six times, and the PGA Seniors' Championship in 1975 (now a Champions Tour major). Sifford’s post-playing career honors include being inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame (2004), the Old Tom Morris Award (2007), an honorary doctorate from the University of St Andrews, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2014).

Sifford served as the golf pro at Sleepy Hollow until 1988 and passed away in February at the age of 92. Earlier this month, the Metroparks dedicated the Charlie Sifford Wall of Fame at Sleepy Hollow. Inaugural inductees included Sifford, Thompson and Bill Barbour, who preceded Sifford as the golf pro at Sleepy Hollow (serving from 1939 to 1974). The ceremony was followed by the 2015 Summer Tournament of the National Negro Golf Association.

The course, itself, was recently ranked as the No. 1 municipal course in Ohio and No. 14 in the United States. Though 35,000 rounds are played at Sleepy Hollow annually, the course is in excellent condition. Superintendent Chad Lewanski and his staff do a tremendous job and the new double-row irrigation system has the track looking great.

Stretching to nearly 6,800 yards, the course isn’t exceedingly long, but has ample defenses to challenge the best players. Barbour’s course record of 63 has stood since 1949 - meaning today’s technology has been unable to tame this gem.
The current golf professional, John Fiander, hints of Sleepy Hollow’s main defense - the greens - with the advice “stay below the hole.” Several of the greens are very steep, while others have considerable undulation. Heavy forest surrounding the course and 58 bunkers add to the difficulty.

When playing Sleepy Hollow, it’s wise to take advantage of the relatively simple par-5 first hole, as Nos. 2 and 3 are monsters. No. 2 is a 240-yard par 3 with a narrow, two-tiered green and heavy woods immediately to the right. Miss a little and it can cost you a lot. The third hole is 481 yards from the tips, making this a challenging par 4 for the even the longest hitters.

The back nine has its share of long par 4s and only one par 3, but is highlighted by a pair of shorter par 4s on the closing stretch - Nos. 16 and 17. The 16th has somewhat of a divided fairway with trouble left, which is also the preferred side to play into the green. The right side is quite a bit lower, leaving golfers with a harder approach to a steep green. No 17 is only 312 yards on the card (though a new tee has been added to lengthen the hole) but the dogleg-left par-4 demands a tee shot to the right side of the fairway, as the left is blocked by a large tree. A slightly pulled tee shot will likely find the bottom of a deep ravine - adding to the challenge.

Sleepy Hollow is one of eight courses under the Cleveland Metroparks umbrella. Along with Donald Ross-designed Manakiki in Willoughby Hills, it’s a flagship property. Other courses include Big Met (Fairview Park), Shawnee Hills (Bedford), Seneca (Broadview Heights), Little Met (Cleveland), Mastick Woods (Cleveland) and Washington (Newburgh Heights). To learn more about golf, click HERE.

In addition to golf, the Metroparks operate nearly 20 nature reservations and a very popular zoo. Activities include swimming, archery, FootGolf, toboggening, zip lines and much more. To learn more about the Cleveland Metroparks, click HERE.
Posted by Blogger at 1:12 PM No comments: Labels: Course Review

Southern California PGA Section adds Third TGA Franchise Territory

Successful industry partnership continues to ensure golf’s future

(Ontario, CA) – The mission of the PGA of America includes serving the PGA Member and their golf facilities. One forward-thinking PGA Section, the Southern California PGA (SCPGA), has been finding great success in doing both in partnership with TGA Premier Junior Golf (TGA), including recently acquiring their third TGA franchise Chapter located in South Orange County. “Our continued partnership with TGA further demonstrates our commitment to player development in Southern California, and we are pleased to continue expanding our resources and growing golf in our area”, said former PGA of America President and SCPGA Executive Director/CEO Tom Addis, III. “TGA’s growth of the game model and what it has done for our Section has allowed us to further invest, expand programs, as well as create jobs for our members.”

The SCPGA recognized TGA’s industry leading player pathway model to develop new players and increase participation, acquiring their first two franchises in North Orange County and North San Diego in 2013. Exceeding revenue and participation projections has allowed the SCPGA to add another franchise and expand the player pathway throughout Southern California for juniors and adults. The pathway begins with introductory programs such as Neighborhood Golf events as well as school and community center enrichment programs. Players then progress to recreational events at golf courses such as junior camps, leagues and clinics along with Get Golf Ready for adults. The pathway completes at the competitive level through enhanced skill development and lessons from PGA Professionals, PGA Junior League Golf, Drive Chip and Putt, and SCPGA Junior Tour events.

The SCPGA acquired the TGA franchise from Anthony Leone who has also been hired to run the day-to-day operations. Leone is a long-time TGA franchise owner and employee, who managed the company-owned Los Angeles Chapter before purchasing the South Orange County franchise in 2007.

The SCPGA owns and operates three of the nine TGA franchises located in Southern California with over 265 schools running year round before and after school programs. Since partnering with TGA in 2005, they have brought more than 60,000 new junior golfers and families into the game throughout Southern California.

“Integrating TGA golf in schools programs into the SCPGA's player pathway and watching it grow has been very rewarding," said TGA founder and CEO, Joshua Jacobs. “They have fully demonstrated how the TGA model can work together with PGA Sections and their Members to create a pathway for new and current players that increases participation, and drives new clientele and revenue to golf courses and PGA Professionals.”

Visit www.scpga.com and www.playtga.com for more information.
Posted by Blogger at 12:37 PM No comments: 

Gavin Green Joins TaylorMade-adidas Golf Tour Staff

Former World No. 5 Amateur and NCAA First-Team All-American Turns Professional

(Carlsbad, Calif.) – TaylorMade Golf Company announced the signing of high-ranking amateur golfer Gavin Green. Green reached as high as fifth on the men’s World Amateur Golf Ranking during his amateur career. The 21-year-old Malaysia native made his professional debut last month on the Asian Development Tour at the PGM Ragman Putra Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. As a TaylorMade-adidas Golf staff member, Green will play TaylorMade golf clubs and ball, wear a TaylorMade glove and headwear, use a TaylorMade Staff bag and wear adidas footwear and apparel.

“I am very excited to begin my professional career and I am very grateful to TaylorMade and adidas for their confidence in me,” said Green. “I’ve put in a lot of hard work to get to this point in my career and I’m excited to begin this next chapter in my life as a professional.”

“We are thrilled to have Gavin join the TaylorMade-adidas family,” said Chuck Presto, TaylorMade-adidas Golf’s senior vice president of sports marketing. “Gavin showed a lot of potential and ability during his time as an amateur and we are confident that this will translate into stellar results as a professional.”

Considered one of Asia’s top young talents, Green experienced a highly successful collegiate career as a three-time All American at The University of New Mexico in the United States, where he set the school’s record with eight career victories. Green became the first player to win as an amateur on the Asian Development Tour in June of 2014 with an 11-stroke margin of victory at the PGM Vascory Tempmler Park Championship. He ended his amateur career as the 12th ranked amateur golfer in the world and Asia’s second-highest ranked amateur.
Posted by Blogger at 4:09 PM No comments: Labels: Industry News, Products, Professionals

Ricoh Women's British Open Ready for Trump Turnberry Resort

The Ricoh Women’s British Open tees off this week on the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry Resort.

All of the world’s top 20 ranked players are in the field which includes 23 Major winners boasting 51 major titles with 25 nationalities represented.

Posing in front of the iconic lighthouse are: Bryce McCulloch, piper at Trump Turnberry Resort, Lydia Ko, Paula Creamer, Charley Hull, defending champion Mo Martin, Shanshan Feng, Catriona Matthew, Laura Davies and Michelle Wie.

TV coverage over the four days will be provided by BBC2 and ESPN2.
Posted by Blogger at 1:35 PM No comments: Labels: LPGA, Tournaments

A Renewed Appreciation for Tom Watson A friend of mine in the golf industry, Alan Hoskins of Kansas City, knew I was a Tom Watson fan and went out of his way to get the Hall of Famer to get this autograph for me. It will always mean a great deal to me.

Now, it seems as though Watson has been thrust into my day-to-day world once again. Considering the beginning of my interest in golf coincided with some of Watson's finest years on Tour, he quickly became my favorite player to watch. While I continued to watch him over the years, memories of his greatness faded - with a brief reminder during his run at the 2009 Open at Turnberry.

Then came the 2014 Ryder Cup. The loss should certainly be shouldered by the players, but many stories coming out of the event reflected so negatively on the man I used to worship. He, of course, handled everything with class and dignity, right down to the open letter posted on the Ryder Cup website.

Lately, I've seen nothing but positive stories about Watson, which I love. There was his farewell at The Open - ironically taking place at the Old Course at St. Andrews, a course on which he didn't claim any of his five Open Championships. I've been reading "The Secret of Golf - The Story of Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus" and, while waiting at the hospital the other night, read Alan Shipnuck's recent Sports Illustrated feature.

I hope today's young golfers have an opportunity to watch Watson and take the time to learn more about the player and man.
Posted by Blogger at 10:40 AM No comments: Labels: Column

TaylorMade’s Jason Day wins RBC Canadian Open with R15 Driver, RSi TP Irons, adipower Boost Shoes What You Need To Know:

· Day’s win with the R15 driver is the 13th for TaylorMade drivers in the full calendar 2014-15 PGA TOUR season (fifth for the R15). Day plays his R15 460 driver at 10.5* (set to lower) with a Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Silver 70x shaft. He has his weights centered for maximum distance. He averaged over 330 yards off the tee this week.
· With 70 (44.9% of the field), TaylorMade had more than double the amount of drivers in play than the next closest manufacturer.
· Day’s victory is the fourth for TaylorMade’s new Tour Preferred EF wedge. He recently switched to a 47*, 52* & 60* combination in the Tour Grind after previously playing the ATV Grind.
· After playing the RSi 2 through the season’s first major, Day switched into the RSi TP irons, which he recently re-shafted with True Temper’s Dynamic Gold X7 shafts.
· Day plays the Tour Preferred X ball with the number 87; the year he was born. Long off the tee with superior greenside spin, Tour Preferred balls deliver unrivaled performance.
· Day wears adidas Golf’s adipower Boost footwear, the first golf shoe with the cushioning, responsiveness and energy return of Boost foam technology.

In Day’s Winning Bag:
- R15 460 Driver 10.5* (Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Silver 70x)
- AeroBurner HL Fairway – 16.5* (Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Silver 80x)
- RSi TP Irons – 3-9, PW (True Temper Dynamic Gold X7)
- Tour Preferred EF Wedge (Tour Grind) 47*, 52* & 60*
- TaylorMade Ghost Spider IB Putter
- Tour Preferred X Golf Ball
- adidas Golf adipower Boost Footwear
- adidas Golf Climalite 3-stripe pant
- adidas Golf Climachill heather solid polo
- Tour Preferred Glove
- TaylorMade New Era Tour 39Thirty hat
Posted by Blogger at 7:40 AM No comments: 
With Power, Distance and a Stellar Performance, Lexi Fights to Victory at the Meijer LPGA Classic COBRA PUMA GOLF Pro Lexi Thompson Captures Her First Win of the 2015 Season Using  COBRA Golf Clubs And Rocking PUMA Golf Apparel and Footwear

(CARLSBAD, CA) – With a stunning fourth round that included eight birdies, Lexi Thompson, a COBRA PUMA GOLF Tour Player, shot a final-round 65 to take home her fifth LPGA win at the Meijer LPGA Classic in Grand Rapids, Mi. Thompson won by one using COBRA Golf equipment and wearing PUMA Golf apparel, accessories and footwear from the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2015 collection.

“I’m very happy with the way I played this whole week. This win definitely gives me confidence going into next weeks’ British Women’s Open,” said Thompson. “My COBRA Clubs give me a lot of confidence and helped me play my best through each round. And my PUMA Golf apparel kept me comfortable and looking good all week.”

“We are excited for Lexi,” said Bob Philion, President of COBRA PUMA GOLF. “She is an incredible golfer, one who plays with confidence and style, and a great representation of the COBRA PUMA GOLF brand. We are excited to celebrate another win with her.”

Lexi used her COBRA Golf equipment to drive her performance and help secure her win. Lexi’s bag consists of:
· Driver: AMP CELL 8.5, neutral in Capri | Fujikura ZCom Six X-flex shaft
· 3 Wood: FLY-Z+ in Blue | Adila Tour Blue 60 Stiff
· Hybrid: FLY-Z 2/3 in Black | Aldila Green NV 85 Stiff
· Irons: Cobra S2 Forged irons 3-PW | Rifle Project X 5.0 shafts
· Wedges: Tour Trusty | 50°, 55°, 60°

During the final round, Thompson sported apparel and footwear from PUMA Golf’s latest Autumn/Winter collection, wearing the Women’s Dot Sleeveless Polo, Women’s Pleated Golf Skirt, PUMA Golf Performance Glove along with the Women’s BioPro Golf Shoes.

Thompson has been using COBRA Golf equipment and wearing PUMA Golf gear on the course since she first turned pro in June, 2010, becoming the first athlete to sign with both brands after they joined forces. She found success early in her career, winning the 2011 Navistar LPGA Classic at 16, briefly holding the title as the youngest winner in LPGA Tour history, the 2011 OMEGA Dubai Ladies Master’s Championship on the Ladies European Tour and the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia in 2013, to rise to No. 9 in the Rolex Rankings. Last year she captured her first Major title at the Kraft Nabisco Championship.
Posted by Blogger at 7:36 AM No comments: 

Titleist Goes Inside the Ropes at the RBC Canadian Open

The PGA Tour is north of the border this week, as Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, hosts the 106th staging of the RBC Canadian Open. With plenty of low numbers on the leaderboard already, the competition is set for an exciting finish.

Titleist is the top choice at the RBC Canadian Open with 93 players in the field trusting a Titleist Pro V1 or Pro V1x golf ball for their success. That's more than three times the nearest competitor with 26 and more than all competitors combined.

Titleist also led the field in the approach, sand and lob wedge (161) and putter (56) categories.
Posted by Blogger at 10:24 AM No comments: 

Todd Eckenrode-Origins Golf Design Completes Major Renovation at Brentwood Country Club Compelling Design Elements increase Playability and Enjoyment for Players while Achieving a Reduction in Formal Turf Areas and Overall Water Usage

(Irvine, CA) – Brentwood Country Club (Los Angeles, Calif.) celebrates the completion of its newly-refurbished course, renovated by California-based golf course architect Todd Eckenrode–Origins Golf Design. Through Eckenrode’s masterful work, Brentwood Country Club now employs a captivating look and sensibility—enhancing the overall golf experience for club members and their guests while also reducing water usage.

The renovation of this classic course  includes the rebuilding and shaping of four greens plus slight adjustments on all other greens capturing additional hole locations, rebuilding green surrounds and reconfiguring approach areas—with a return to the original strategy which is more receptive to “run-up” approach shots and the ground game. Bunkers now reflect a more classic styling and placement— most repositioned strategically throughout the course.  In the process, the course has been lengthened to 6,948 yards. “Through collaboration with the club and its green committee we were able to develop a compelling yet ecologically-efficient design plan which included everything from converting green surfaces from Poa to Bentgrass to incorporating a well thought-out tree removal program,” said golf course architect Todd Eckenrode, ASGCA Associate and principal with Origins Golf Design. “We were able to reduce formal turf areas, replacing them with a variety of effective solutions for reducing water use, such as drought- tolerant landscaping, pine straw or mulch under mature tree groves.  There were also large sections of the course that were converted from manicured turf to drought-tolerant hardy fescues.  The members are excited about the new playing experience, which is gratifying to our design team.”

The classic course now boasts increased visual and ecological enhancements trailing into a rustic canyon setting— achieved through the removal of non-native trees and shrubs replaced with native specimens (California Sycamores and Oaks) highlighted by the whispy, natural character of the fescue understory.  The canyon (which prior to the renovation was a golf ball-eating nightmare plus a significant maintenance challenge) is now a natural and esthetically attractive feature that creates a common thread throughout the golf course.

The restored canyon now enhances seven of the course’s holes and serve as a stunning backdrop for other holes—creating a memorable identity that was lacking prior to Origin’s course renovation work.

According to General Manager Daniel Enzler, the membership at Brentwood Country Club loves the “new” course evidenced by the positive feedback he continues to receive. “Members are enjoying a wider variety of pin positions as well as a series of newly refurbished bunkers.

Brentwood Country Club is embracing its environmental stewardship and the economic benefits of reduced water usage and the improved maintainability of the course in general. The successful renovation creates a stronger, revitalized membership and is expected to attract new members.

Teaming with Todd Eckenrode−Origins Golf Design were golf course contractors Landscapes Unlimited/Christensen Irrigation, long-time course superintendent Robert “Bob” O’Connell and his capable staff, irrigation consultants Bryant Taylor Gordon and independent shapers led by Kye Goalby and Blake Conant with help from Brian Caesar and Tony Russell— the shapers— hand-picked for their talent by Eckenrode himself.

“Working with Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design’s talented Senior Designer Andy Frank, was a phenomenal experience,” said PGA Head Golf Professional Patrick Casey. “Origin’s vision for the renovation exceeded our expectations, it was masterfully achieved while maintaining the integrity of the course every step of the way.”

Thomas Klein, Co-Chair of Brentwood CC’s Green Committee, probably expressed the Club’s feeling best. “Working with Todd has been a great experience,” said Klein. “He has a strong, clear point of view but is never imposing.  He listens closely and he cares, a great combination.  What I really appreciate about Todd is his sense of classic old-school golf design.  Todd is a classicist with a keen artistic eye.”

In addition to the renovation at Brentwood Country Club, Origins design portfolio includes restoration and/or renovation projects at Palos Verdes Golf Club (Palos Verdes, CA), Lakeside Golf Club (Toluca Lake, CA), and recently completed Quail Lodge & Golf Club (Carmel, CA).  Origins has commenced work on renovations and restorations at historic clubs: Virginia CC (Long Beach, CA), San Gabriel CC (San Gabriel, CA) and Orinda CC (Orinda, CA), and is celebrating the recent opening of a magnificent new course, The Country Club at The Golden Nugget (Lake Charles, LA).

For more about Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design, visit www.originsgolfdesign.com.
Posted by Blogger at 7:50 AM No comments: Labels: Courses, Design


DST Golf’s Compressor Used by Six Top-10 Finishers at The Open Championship

Innovative Warm-Up Club Now in Use by Over 80 PGA Tour Players

(SALISBURY, England) – DST Golf – developer and manufacturer of ground breaking warm up clubs that benefit players of all skill levels – confirms six of the top-10 finishers at The Open Championship trusted DST Golf’s Compressor warm-up clubs to prepare for tournament play. These top players are among more than 200 PGA, European, and LPGA Tour players who have incorporated the Compressor into their warm-up regimen. The clubs are designed with a scientifically-curved shaft and an amended sole angle to help golfers locate, train and perfect the optimal impact position.

“It is fantastic to see that Tour professionals continue to place trust in our clubs while producing brilliant results in a major championship like The Open at St. Andrews,” says Bertie Cordle, founder and CEO of DST Golf, “Players who practice with our curved shafted clubs immediately feel how the Compressor helps them keep their hands on plane and ahead of the ball at impact, facilitating perfect compression of the ball with each swing.

The unique design of the Compressor’s curved shaft is engineered to help players learn how to control the club face through impact, which leads to improved consistency, control and accuracy. Additionally, the club’s “Hand Position Alignment Marker” ensures players replicate the optimal impact position at set-up, thus simplifying the swing and ingraining the muscle memory needed to consistently achieve this ideal, scientifically-proven position.

Developed by a former European Challenge Tour player after years of researching the biomechanics of impact, the DST Compressor teaches the golfer two things: how to swing the club on plane and how to maintain tension in the shaft until after impact. These are the two critical aspects to achieve better ball striking, control, consistency and accuracy.

Posted by Blogger at 1:43 PM No comments: 
PIQ, Mobitee Unveil New Wearable Technology that Tracks Golfers’ Every Move from Tee to Green All-Encompassing Game Tracking Device, Compatible with Android and iPhone Platforms, Gives Golfers A Wearable Rangefinder, Scorekeeper, Shot-Tracker and Swing Analyzer

(PARIS, FRANCE) – PIQ, the creator of the most sophisticated multisport sensor technology announces its first wearable golf device that provides golfers with more instant data than ever before.

In partnership with leading golf app developer, Mobitee, the very lightweight PIQ golf device easily attaches to the golfer’s glove and can display yardage to the green while transmitting swing metrics, shot tracking and specific club data onto the golfer’s smartphone. This comprehensive breakthrough technology of a wearable rangefinder, shot tracker and swing analyzer is all thanks to PIQ’s $5.5 million funding round led by Foxconn in May.

“We realized it was time to inject new innovation into the game of golf, and PIQ device makes the game more enjoyable and offers new ways of improvement,” said Cedric Mangaud, PIQ co-founder and CEO. “With a partner like Mobitee, the leader in golf apps and software, we were able to develop the very best wearable sensor technology, connectivity and software that dramatically improves the golfer’s experience during and after his round, ultimately making the game more exciting.”

Unique and Easy To Use Wearable Rangefinder The PIQ sensor is the lightest and sleekest GPS rangefinder that comfortably clips onto any golf glove and provides instant, easy to read yardage to the front, center and back of the green. Instead of having to look through a viewfinder on a handheld device or pulling a smartphone out of his pocket, the yardage is shown on a vibrant LED display on the back of the golfer’s glove.

Using Mobitee’s database of over 35,000 golf courses across the globe, the 65 million golfers worldwide have accurate distances no matter what golf course he or she is playing. The app automatically detects the course and then displays hole-by-hole yardages based on the golfer’s GPS location.

“We wanted the user to experience our Mobitee app without having to take their smartphones out of their pocket,” said Stan Chapus, Mobitee CEO. “Now they are able to quickly view precise yardages with a glance at their hand using the PIQ golf sensor.”

Statistical Club Data and Shot Tracking
Data is captured from every club that the golfer uses during his or her round through the use of near-field communication (NFC) sensor tags that are inserted onto the end of each grip. Fifteen NFC sensor tags are labeled specifically for each club in a standard set and an additional three customizable sensor tags are also included for a total of 18.

During all the golf cession the on glove display feature allows the golfer to control in real time his or her key action even in sunlight situation.

With a quick tap of the sensor tag to the golf device on the player’s glove before every shot, the shot-tracking and distance data is then recorded onto the Mobitee app. That real-time data is instantly viewable on the smartphone or can be analyzed afterwards.

Mobitee and PIQ will track all shots and record yardages to give the golfer the ability to analyze their distances with each club providing helpful averages over time for future club selection. Golf should be fun and PIQ highlights the golfer’s best moments of the round including longest drive, best swing, top score and other highlights that can be shared via social media and text messaging.

Innovation Through In-Depth Swing Analysis
In addition to a rangefinder, scorekeeper and shot-tracker, PIQ captures important data of the player’s swing including swing tempo, club head speed, and the swing path. That information is then displayed in a 3-D swing analysis on the smartphone.

By integrating the latest sensor technologies along with NFC tags, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and cutting-edge micro-processing technology, PIQ incorporates 13 axis points and accurately measures performance metrics such as velocity, height, airtime, G-force, amplitude, trajectory and others.

The wearable PIQ sensor can be positioned in the ideal place for data collection whatever the sport. PIQ is a small, ultra-lightweight, waterproof and flexible multi-sport motion sensor connected via BLE.

To view the PIQ product video click HERE.
Posted by Blogger at 1:24 PM 1 comment: Labels: Products, Technology


Spain Serves Up Culinary Kings in Bid for 2022 Ryder Cup Joan, Josep and Jordi Roca – owners of the “World’s Best Restaurant” – join the Costa Brava Barcelona 2022 team

(SPAIN) - The celebrated Roca brothers, whose restaurant El Celler de Can Roca recently reclaimed the “World’s Best Restaurant” award, have joined the famous faces lending their support to Spain’s bid for The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Commenting on the bid to bring golf’s biggest match to the region, Joan Roca said: “Catalunya has a proven pedigree in organizing the world’s largest events. We are a destination with a hospitality industry committed to excellence.”

Speaking of the region he calls home, Jordi Roca said: “For me, my favorite spot on the Costa Brava is undoubtedly the city of Girona. Getting into town is very easy and the city has so much history, with great cultural heritage and many places to discover again and again. It is definitely my favorite place.”

Josep Roca added: “Catalunya has a unique relationship with food. Gastronomy is a major part of our culture. It embodies our philosophy of life. Catalunya is waiting for you with love, generosity, hospitality and great food – with a table set for you. If we are successful in our bid, we hope you will come and enjoy The Ryder Cup in our beautiful region.”

The Roca Brothers lead a raft of pioneering chefs that have propelled Girona and the Costa Brava region into becoming the ‘must visit’ destination for international foodies.  The province of Girona alone boasts 13 Michelin starred restaurants (with 17 stars between them). If selected as host, visitors to a Ryder Cup in Spain in 2022 will be spoilt for choice when it comes to sampling some of the best food on the planet.

The Roca Brothers are the latest celebrities to get behind the bid to bring The 2022 Match to PGA Catalunya Resort’s Stadium course – joining Bayern Munich’s Pep Guardiola and FC Barcelona’s Xavi Hernández as bid ambassadors.

Ryder Cup Europe will announce the successful host nation in Autumn 2015.

Find out more about Spain's bid: www.costabravabarcelona2022.com.
Posted by Blogger at 12:50 PM No comments: Labels: Tournaments, Travel

Product Review: Glukos Energy I recently received an e-mail about an energy product called Glukos. Being vaguely familiar with what glucose - commonly referred to as sugar - means medically I was guarded, but interested.

My reason for being guarded? After a lifetime of drinking sweet tea and high-octane Coke/Pepsi, my doctor told me my blood sugar levels were a bit high. While I wasn’t exactly shocked, I did eliminate those beverages from my diet.

So now I’m going to willingly put sugar back into my exercise routine? I did a little digging and it didn’t take long before I learned that glucose is needed by all of our cells and organs - most importantly, our muscles and brain. These sugars comes from the food we eat in the form of carbohydrates (fruit, bread, pasta and cereals are common sources of glucose).

OK ... So I’m a little smarter in terms of glucose, but now I’m curious about what Glukos can do for me. I took to the golf course with a full range of products - powder, tablets, gummies, energy bars and gel.

First up - powder. I tried the fruit punch, but Glukos also offers orange and lemon. Simply add to 12 ounces of water, shake (or stir) and drink. We’ve all tried energy drinks. That’s what this tasted like.

You may think it’s easy enough to get a sports drink at the course - why go through the effort of tracking down and/or ordering Glukos?

Basically, Gloukos provides energy almost immediately. Common energy drinks use inferior sugars (fructose and sucrose) that need to be digested before providing benefits - wasting valuable time and even robbing your body of energy.

Others may avoid energy drinks because they make them feel jittery. Again, Glukos isn't your common energy drink. It contains only natural fuel in the purest form your body uses, not stimulants like caffeine, Taurine, herbs, b-vitamins, etc.

So I’m two hours into my round and we’re about to hit the halfway house. This is where I used to grab a Coke and a hot dog. The Coke turned into a Diet Coke and the hot dog was eliminated once I realized a played like garbage for three or four holes after eating. But still, my body wants something.

Enter the Glukos energy bar. With five flavors from which to choose - apple cinnamon, peanut butter, lemon, chocolate and cashew coconut - there’s something for everyone. Each bar packs between 210-240 calories and provides about an hour of “low-intensity” fuel.

Like the powder, the bars are all natural. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and vegan. Tastes vary wildly from person to person, so go with your gut. I can tell you that the chocolate was very “chocolate-y” and had the consistency of a thick brownie. Each bar was pleasant and healthy - made from ingredients like dates and cashews.

Full disclosure: I wouldn’t choose any of the bars for a tasty dessert, but if you’re looking at a Ho-Ho for healthy energy, you’re reading the wrong article.

An hour later and four holes to go, I’ve maintained my energy with the bar at the turn and refilled my water bottle with another powder, so I’m not dragging, but the aforementioned science tells me I could use something to power me through the final putt. I reach for the gummies.

I’ve eaten fruit-flavored snacks, so I’m familiar with the concept and taste. While the ones I’ve tried in the past are loaded with bad sugar and taste great, the Glukos gummies are, again, natural. Surprise ... They also taste great!

The gummies not only got me through the final holes of golf without a crash, but also provided a lift prior to the gym on another day. And that was much more intense than 18 holes of golf.

If you’re following with a checklist, you probably realize we haven’t touched upon the gel or tablets. Tried those, as well, but with mixed reviews. Yes, they provided natural energy, but weren’t as enjoyable as the others. The gel, for instance, had a decent taste, but I wasn’t a fan of the texture - or lack thereof. I know gel is popular with endurance athletes, but the battle between liquid and solid doesn’t need to be waged in my mouth.

The tablets, on the other hand, were a 50/50 split. The package says they can be consumed in two ways - added to 2 ounces of water or chewed without water. They were a bit too dry to chew comfortably (for me), but dissolved in 2 oz. of water provided a nice shot - pun intended.

Ironman competitor and endurance athlete Mark Jensen created this line of products because he wanted a sport fuel without the unnatural colors, flavors, preservatives and sugars that are the pitfalls of other energy products, according to Glukos. Made with real glucose, each item provides twice the energy, twice as fast as similar offerings from competitors.

Bottom line: Your body knows what it needs, when it needs it. Glukos provides everything necessary for healthy, natural energy. Avoid all the extraneous garbage and give your body what it wants for athletic success - energy.

Check out all the company has to offer HERE.
Posted by Blogger at 11:03 AM No comments: 
Old Chatham Golf Club Hosts Sixth Annual Tournament for The First Tee of the Triangle

Prestigious Golf Club Partners with Local Youth Development Organization to Raise Funds for Additional Educational Opportunities

(RALEIGH, N.C.) – Old Chatham Golf Club again hosted a full field for this year’s sixth annual tournament benefitting The First Tee of the Triangle. Twenty-seven teams comprised of 108 golfers raised over $110,000 to provide value-added opportunities for more than 1,000 youth participants of the local nonprofit organization.

“The First Tee of the Triangle is a robust service organization that teaches kids the core values and life skills that will help them both on and off the golf course,” said Allen Wilson, president of Old Chatham Golf Club. “Integrity, respect, good sportsmanship – these are attributes are important within the culture of our club, and we are proud to support an organization that helps develop them in the next generation of golfers.”

Old Chatham has exclusively supported The First Tee of the Triangle since 2010 by offering its top-ranked course to the cause for free. This allows The First Tee of the Triangle to minimize expenses of the tournament in order to offer more educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

“Old Chatham Golf Club has been a joy to work with over the past six years, and our tournament and the event continue to improve and assist the lives of the youth we work with,” said Brandon Baker, executive director of The First Tee of the Triangle. “Old Chatham’s professional demeanor and unrelenting support makes the club an indispensable aid to our organization, and we wouldn’t be able to operate without partners like them.”

This year’s tournament gave players the ability to experience firsthand what The First Tee of The Triangle contributes to the lives of children involved in the program. Players could engage with an interactive, mobile STEM space on Old Chatham’s tenth tee to see how the organization helps participants connect real-world science to everyday life. Everyone involved came away impressed with The First Tee of the Triangle’s dedication to helping children explore the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) critical to the game of golf.
“Old Chatham is thrilled to work with an organization like The First Tee of the Triangle that not only instills a love for golf in young people but also applies the fundamentals of the game, including hard work and perseverance, to help them succeed in life,” said John Marino, director of operations at Old Chatham. “This year’s tournament was yet again a remarkable success, and we can’t thank everyone enough who made it possible.”

Since 2004, The First Tee of the Triangle has served more than 5,000 young people, ages 5 to 18, who might not otherwise be exposed to golf.

The teams that competed included representatives from:
* Atlantic Tire & Service
* Bayer CropScience
* Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
* Bojangles
* CAPTRUST Financial Advisors
* Deloitte
* Edwards-Hobgood Foundation
* First Citizens Bank
* Golden Corral
* Kane Realty Group
* Lenovo
* MATRIX Resources
* Medical Mutual
* Monday's Travel
* North State Bank
* Paragon Bank
* PNC Bank
* Rex/UNC Health Care
* Ruth's Chris Steak House
* Scott Madden & Sam Poston
* Select Bank
* SportsEndeavors
* SPS Corporation
* Surgical Alternatives
* The Davis Team at Fonville Morisey
* Trust Company of the South
* Wilkinson Charitable Trust
* Wyrick Robbins Yates & Ponton LLP
* Yadkin Bank

For more information, visit oldchathamgolf.org.
Posted by Blogger at 8:38 AM No comments: Labels: Courses, Growing the Game

Nexbelt Congratulates Staff Pro Marc Leishman on his Runner Up Finish at the Open Championship

(RANCHO CUCAMONGA) - Nexbelt, "The Fastest Growing Belt On Tour," continued its success on the PGA TOUR this past weekend as Staff Professional, Marc Leishman, posted back to back rounds of 64 and 66 to grab a share of the lead and compete in a three man playoff at the 144th Open Championship at St. Andrews. Leishman recorded 15 birdies in his final two rounds to rebound from a slow start that left him at +1 after the first 36 holes. He finished T-2nd after the 4 hole playoff but his score of 130 tied a record for the lowest score recorded in the final two rounds of the Open Championship.

"What an amazing comeback," said Eddie Rowland, Co-Founder of Nexbelt. "We all know how talented and determined Marc is and he just showed the world what he's made of. He refused to let the bad weather and all the delays get him down. All of us here at Nexbelt would like to congratulate him on his 2nd Place Finish. We're so proud to have him on our team of Staff Professionals."

Nexbelt, Precise Fit and "The Belt With No Holes" are registered trademarks.

For more information about Nexbelt, visit www.Nexbelt.com.
Posted by Blogger at 6:23 AM No comments: