Kraft Nabisco Easter Ball Hunt Features Chromax Golf Balls

(RANCHO MIRAGE, CA) - Easter Sunday at the Kraft Nabisco Championship is always special. But this year there is something a little extra, and fun, for the kids. Before this year’s winner jumps into the pond beside the 18th green at the Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, an Easter ‘Ball’ Hunt will set the stage for the Kraft Nabisco’s tradition of fun, family involvement, and excitement.

Following the Easter Sunrise Service, as many as 800 youngsters under the age of 10 will hunt for 1,500 brilliantly colorful Chromax golf balls hidden on the 18th hole of The Arnold Palmer Course at Mission Hills.

“Once the children finish the Hunt, they’ll turn in their Chromax balls to redeem prizes of Kraft products, and a few of the balls will be specially marked for Clemmy’s ice cream vouchers,” Gabe Codding, Kraft Nabisco Championship business manager explained. “When all the balls have been collected, they will be donated to the Coachella Valley chapter of the First Tee program.”

The great idea for combining fun and a worthwhile cause came about as Codding and Sean Daigle, responsible for Marketing and New Media, discussed Easter Sunday plans for the tournament.

“Historically, we’ve always held a Sunrise Service and we were talking about having a big Easter Egg hunt,” Codding recalled. “I happened to have a sleeve of Chromax balls on my desk – a silver, pink, and bright orange ball – and we looked at them and said: ‘Hey, wouldn’t it be cool to use the Chromax balls instead of eggs.’”

Ryan Chin, of AMA Golf, area distributor for Chromax, donated 720 of the unique high-visibility Chromax golf balls.

“We have been serving the golf industry for over 38 years and are proud to support The Kraft Nabisco Championship, the First Tee, and local communities,” said Chin. “The Easter Ball Hunt is natural for us and Chromax.”

The colorful Chromax golf balls conform to USGA rules. The unique inner reflective fluorescent layer in pink, green, orange, silver, gold, or blue under a clear outer layer produces remarkable visibility while the ball is in the air and on the grass in Easter Ball Hunts.

Kraft Nabisco added another 780 Chromax balls and the Hunt was on adding another fun chapter to the rich history of one of golf’s most historic events. The 2010 Kraft Nabisco Championship, March 29 through April 4, is the first Major of the LPGA Tour season. Since 1972, the Championship has been staged at Mission Hills, making the Kraft Nabisco the second-longest running tournament held at one location in all of golf, trailing only The Masters at Augusta National.

Registration for the first Easter Ball Hunt at the 39th Kraft Nabisco is available on Kraft Nabisco Championship Web site: www.KNCGOLF.com.

All registrants are eligible for grand prizes including autographed memorabilia, and $100 certificates for The Gallery merchandise tent at the tournament.

“It’s going to crazy when that air horn sounds to start the hunt,” said Daigle. “It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

For more information on the Easter Ball Hunt and the Kraft Nabisco Championship: visit www.KNCGOLF.com. For more information on AMA Golf visit www.amagolf.com. For more information on the Chromax Golf Balls visit: www.chromaxgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Pocono Mountains Course Lauded as Pennsylvania’s Finest

Jack Frost National Recognized by Golfweek as 2010 ‘Best in State,’ One of 35+ Offerings in Venerable Destination

(POCONO MOUNTAINS, Pennsylvania) – The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) announces that Jack Frost National, after its first full season, has earned a spot on Golfweek's coveted “Best Courses You Can Play” list, which appears annually.

Hundreds of Golfweek raters play and rank thousands of courses nationwide on feature shaping, natural setting, greens, variety, conditioning and maintenance, landscape management, overall impressionability and similar criteria.

Stretching 7,256 yards from the tips, Jack Frost National plays to a manageable distance of 5,129 from the forward tees. The Terry LaGree-design is one of more than 35 options – ranging from challenging championship layouts to beginner-friendly par-3s – that proliferate the four-county region. Different than most mountain landscapes, the 18-hole, par-72 course provides wide fairways, easily identified target areas, few uneven lies and no blind shots.

Among the 18 signature holes is the picturesque par-3, 169-yard No. 11 that tests the most skilled golfers. In the middle of a daunting five-hole stretch that can make or break a round, the 11th features an undulating green guarded by bunkers and a demanding back-right pin placement.

“Jack Frost National is an excellent addition to the Pocono Mountains golf destination,” said Carl Wilgus, President and CEO of the PMVB. “Being named ‘Best in State’ is a significant award and wonderful reinforcement of the high-quality options we offer players.”

The Pocono Mountains: Discover Golf’s Great Destination Secret is home to iconic designs by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast and Donald Ross and modern gems by Jack Nicklaus. Close proximity to many East Coast cities and value-laden packages make this region a popular choice for discerning travelers.

Away from the golf course, miles of marked and unmarked trails for hiking and biking, rivers and lakes for fishing and boating, luxurious spas, fine dining, shopping, and more await. Whether it is an overnight stay, a weekend trip or an extended vacation, people are increasingly discovering and remembering the Pocono Mountains.

For more information on Jack Frost National and other courses in the Pocono Mountains, call 800-POCONOS (800-762-6667), visit www.800poconos.com or www.twitter.com/poconotourism.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Wilson Golf Expands "Get Fit" Online Equipment Selection Tool to Include Golf Balls

Enhanced online questionnaire helps golfers choose the perfect golf ball for their game

(CHICAGO) - Wilson Golf has expanded its unique online fitting tool to include a section dedicated to helping golfers select the perfect golf ball.

The Get Fit tool has been enhanced with a golf ball specific questionnaire process, making the Get Fit custom fitting center the easiest and most comprehensive way to navigate golf equipment selection. Golfers may visit www.wilson.com/getfit, where they will engage in an easy to use, interactive question and answer session that will deliver the golf ball that best suits a player's style and ability.

"Golf ball selection is a vital part of every golfer's strategy," said Bob Thurman, Wilson Golf's global director of golf R&D. "The Get Fit golf ball tool provides a simplified understanding of the various technical components in ball design tailored for each player, helping golfers at every skill level maximize their accuracy, distance and overall enjoyment of the game."

Wilson Staff has introduced three new golf balls in 2010:
Wilson Staff FG Tour Golf Ball - The FG Tour golf ball, designed for the competitive golfer, joins the forged family of Wilson Staff equipment alongside the FG Tour irons. The three-piece, multi-layer ball is a low-compression distance golf ball covered in a thin, soft veneer of urethane to deliver maximum traction control for iron and wedge shots. The FG Tour is Wilson's softest, highest-spinning multi-piece urethane ball and was created as a low compression solution for competitive players looking for tour-caliber spin, maximum greenside control and excellent distance. In internal testing, the Wilson Staff FG Tour golf ball had longer and straighter ball flights than other leading premium golf balls.
Wilson Staff C:25 Golf Ball - The latest edition to the "C" family of golf equipment, the Wilson Staff C:25, a low-compression three-piece ball delivering minimal spin off the driver, is best matched with the Wilson Staff Ci9 iron. The C:25 promotes progressively higher spin as the player approaches the pin for shots inside 150 yards. The golf ball features a 302-dimple pattern to provide high lift conditions for more height on tee shots and from long distances.
Wilson Staff D:25 Golf Ball - Wilson Staff's "D", or distance, golf balls are introduced in conjunction with Wilson Staff Di9 and D-FY irons. The D:25 is a low-compression two-piece ball delivering minimal spin off the driver face. The D:25 golf ball was designed for players looking to hit longer drives and minimize mis-hits.

All Wilson Staff golf balls are built on a low-compression platform featuring ultra-soft, high-velocity cores for the softest feel with no sacrifice in distance. All three golf balls utilize Wilson's breakthrough Traction Control Technology which is specifically tailored for new and less aggressive groove specifications. Traction Control Technology provides golfers with 17 percent more surface contact area and 13 percent more grooves engaged during impact.

The suggested list price for Wilson Staff FG Tour golf ball is $49.99 per dozen, $34.99 per dozen C:25 golf balls and $29.99 for one dozen D:25 golf balls.

For more information on Wilson Golf, log onto www.wilsonstaff.com or call 800-622-0444.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

The Territory Head Professional Earns PGA Class A Certification

Donavan Grahn’s Accomplishment Further Strengthens Southwest Oklahoma’s Premier Golf-Residential Community

(Southwest Oklahoma) – The Territory Golf and Country Club today announces that Head Golf Professional Donavan Grahn has earned his PGA Class A Certification.

PGA Members earn their status by undergoing a multi-year series of work, study and training in every aspect of golf ranging from teaching, to tournament management, to golf shop operations, and must maintain their expertise through a variety of continuing education programs. They also must pass a Playing Aptitude Test, furthering ensuring that they are uniquely qualified to teach the game of golf.

Grahn, who played his collegiate golf at Cameron University, joined The Territory upon its opening in 2004 and quickly began the process of earning his certification under the tutelage of General Manager Tim Johnson.

“Donavan showed a great deal of dedication to the club and our members from the day he joined our team,” said Johnson. “His knowledge of the game, patience in teaching and industry savvy are great assets for The Territory.”

Only 75 minutes from Oklahoma City and a couple hours from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, The Territory is a modified target-style design that unfolds over rolling hills and through fields of native vegetation. The Randy Heckenkemper design has hosted a State Amateur, Senior State Amateur, a stop on the Adams Pro Golf Tour Series and an NCAA Div. II Super Regional.

Owned by Rick and Barbara Braught, The Territory garnered national attention upon opening by earning a spot on Golfweek’s prestigious “Best New” list. The same publication has placed The Territory amongst the country’s “Best Residential Courses,” while Golf Digest named it one of the golf-rich state’s Top 10.

Off the golf course, The Territory – Golf & Community as it Should Be – is committed to a family-focused environment. From a multi-sport recreation court and luxurious pool where guests unwind, to a large, inflatable movie screen that shows "dive-in movies," family is front and center. Culinary aficionados enjoy Chef Keith Zinke’s creations in the Prairie House, where delicious meals are joined by regular themed parties and wine tasting events.

For more information on The Territory, call 580.475.0075 or visit www.territorygolf.com. To follow The Territory on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/territorygolf, or become a fan of The Territory on Facebook by logging onto www.facebook.com/territorygolf.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

SeeMore Introduces DB4 CS Gunmetal With RST2 Technology

The SeeMore Putter Company follows up on the growing success of its flagship putter line by launching the new DB4 CS Gunmetal, which features RST2 technology.

The DB4 is the most exciting new product launch from SeeMore in many years, as it offers a very simple, effective, and innovative twist on a classic design. RST2 alignment technology expands the proprietary alignment benefits of SeeMore's patented RifleScope Technology (RST) to a classic blade design with offset hosel for the first time.

"The new DB4, like all of the SeeMore putters before it, is one that solves one of the most fundamental problems in putting, that of consistently accurate alignment at address. It offers the confidence to make a fundamentally solid and repeatable putting stroke each and every time, said Jim Grundberg, SeeMore's Managing Partner. "The RST2 patented alignment feature is extremely exciting in that it has been developed with the input of the world's best tour players over the past 2 years and simply makes a great putter design better by improving a player's ability to set up square to the intended target line."

The RST2 alignment system is housed on the top of the hosel vs. the original RST system that is found on the top heel section of the putter. The 2 white lines on top of the hosel are milled perfectly parallel to the face of the putter, creating a perfect "gun sight" effect where the golfer is assured of being square to the intended target line when the white lines are visible and the signature red dot is hidden.

The RST2 system also assures that the loft of the putter head will be optimal for perfect roll on every putt. The golfer also can be confident that by lining up the 2 white lines, and making sure the red is not visible, that his eyes and shoulders and hips will all be square to the intended target line. This means that the golfer will enjoy a much greater probability of making a consistently perfect stroke with each and every putt, leading to more made putts and lower scores due to improved putting.

The RST2 brings most of the key benefits of SeeMore's patented and proven RST (RifleScope) technology to the large golfing population that loves the classic looks of this type of putter.

The DB4 is 100 percent milled in the United States, and is available carbon steel with a proprietary multi-layer black satin finish for striking and lasting beauty, for $295.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Etonic's G>SOK Perfect Fit Glove Receives Gold Award on Golf Digest's 2010 Hot List

(WESTBOROUGH, Mass.) - Etonic's G>SOK Perfect Fit golf glove received a gold award on Golf Digest's 2010 Golf Glove Hot List. The Perfect Fit glove received high marks for its flexibility, consistent fit and anti-twisting thumb area.

"We are extremely honored and pleased to be one of three companies to receive Golf Digest's first ever Gold Hot List Award in the under $15 Golf Glove Category" said Tom Elwell, CEO of Etonic Worldwide. "This award is a very strong testimonial to the performance-superior features and lasting fit afforded in our G>SOK Perfect Fit glove."

The G>SOK Perfect Fit glove is made of Cabretta leather, Dri-Lite microfiber and Aerify Lycra to provide a lasting fit while keeping the hand cool and dry. The patent-pending Island Thumb construction ensures the glove retains a "new glove fit" round after round. "The Perfect Fit glove is a strong performer for Etonic," said Kent Wheeler, director of sales and marketing. "Once golfers try the glove on, they are instantly a fan".

The Golf Glove Hot List judges the gloves on performance, innovation, feel and demand. The gloves are also evaluated on sizing options, thickness of individual sections, closure flexibility, durability and depth of wrist cuff. There were two categories the gloves were judged in - over $15 and under $15. Etonic received the Gold, in the under $15 category. The Golf Glove Hot List is in the April issue of Golf Digest.

The Etonic Perfect Fit glove is available in four models in addition to the G>SOK- Ultimate, All Weather, Rain and Winter. The suggested retail of the Ultimate is $20, G>SOK is $14.99, All-Weather $12.99 and Rain and Winter gloves are $20 a pair.

For information on Etonic call 1-866-8-ETONIC (386642) or log onto www.etonic.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

The Hacker's Paradise Partners With Bridgestone Golf For Season's First Major Contest

New Bridgestone driver, 3-wood and wedge up for grabs during exclusive contest

THP Media, which hosts an interactive golf forum at http://www.thehackersparadise.com/, publishes a quarterly print publication and hosts a weekly radio show, today announced a contest with Bridgestone Golf to give away a brand new J38 driver, 3-wood and a black oxide wedge during season's first major week.

"THP prides itself on its special giveaways and unique contests - especially around golf's four majors," said THP Media Vice President Morgan Babbitt. "This timely contest with one of the
best companies in the industry is yet another example of the devotion we have to our readers."

By choosing from the field, participants will be asked to select who they feel will win the season's first major and create a team of four golfers. Points will be awarded to the PGA Tour players based on winnings. The contest participant who yields the most points based on their picks will win the grand prize: a J38 driver. Second place will receive his/her choice of the J38 3-wood or the J-38 Black Oxide wedge.

The contest is also in place to celebrate the arrival of THP's Spring edition, which features a multi-page Masters preview amidst more than 100 pages of exclusive content ranging from equipment reviews, industry interviews and more. The inaugural issue of THP the Magazine was released in December 2009 and quickly sold out.

Through the existence of the forum, the quarterly magazine and the new radio show, THP Media now reaches more than 200,000 consumers.

For more information or to inquire about how THP Media can help your brand, contact Morgan Babbitt at golfergal@thehackersparadise.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Pocono Mountains Listens to Consumers; Responds Proactively

Golf-and-Resort Lifestyle Destination Offers Affordable Options for Discerning Golfers

(POCONO MOUNTAINS, Pennsylvania) – Temperatures are rising and snow is melting in the Pocono Mountains, as golf season is almost upon the more than 35 courses in the venerable four-county destination. Ranging from preserved Golden Age landscapes to modern layouts and mountainous challenges, there are a variety of options, meeting preferences of all golfers.

Pricing is available at www.800poconos.com and many facilities have frozen last year’s rates as well as providing value-laden deals. Some of the recession busters include the Double Eagle at Skytop Lodge, the Spring Golf Special at Fernwood Hotel & Resort, and Midweek and Weekend stay-and-play packages at The Country Club at Woodloch Springs.

“Golf is a cornerstone of our destination and the competitive pricing reflects our desire to meet consumer needs,” said Carl Wilgus, president and CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “Whether visitors prefer the test of a former PGA Championship course or are beginners looking to hone their skills on one of our par-3 options, anyone can play at the Pocono Mountains.”

Showcasing designs from legendary architects such as the iconic Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast to contemporary gems from the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus; all Pocono Mountains courses are within close proximity to major East Coast cities – approximately 75 miles from Manhattan and 85 miles from Philadelphia.

Weather permitting, Opening Days are as follows:

March 26
*Glen Brook Golf Club, 570-421-3680
*Mountain Manor Golf Course, 570-223-1290
*Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, 570-424-4000

March 27
*Water Gap Country Club, 570-476-0300

April 1
*Cherry Valley Golf Course, 570-421-1350
*The Country Club at Woodloch Springs, 570-685-8102
*Hideaway Hills Golf Club, 610-681-6000
*Mount Airy Golf Club, 570-839-8816
*Split Rock Resort & Golf Club, 570-722-9111

Early April
*Evergreen Golf Club, 570-421-7721
*Fernwood Hotel & Resort, 570-588-9500
*The Inn at Pocono Manor, 570-839-7111
*Jack Frost National Golf Club, 866-268-5503
*Mountain Laurel Golf Club, 570-443-7424
*Red Maples Golf Course, 570-937-4543
*Skytop Lodge, 570-595-8910

April 10
*Buck Hill Golf Club, 570-595-7730

Off the golf course, visitors enjoy miles of marked and unmarked trails for hiking and biking, rivers and lakes for fishing and boating, luxurious spas to regenerate the mind, body and spirit, first-class dining, shopping, historic attractions and much more. Relax and reconnect in the authentic beauty of this lush mountain destination.

For more information on the many golf options and special offers in the Pocono Mountains, call 800-POCONOS (800-762-6667) or visit www.800poconos.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Golfsmith to Give Away Drivers If Phil Mickelson Wins The Masters

(AUSTIN, Texas ) - As all eyes turn towards The Masters golf tournament with golfer Phil Mickelson the favorite to win, one golf retailer is offering a way for fans to win free golf clubs if Lefty captures his third green jacket.

Golfsmith International Holdings, Inc. is teaming with Callaway Golf to give golfers an opportunity to get new drivers, free of charge, if Mickelson is victorious this April in Augusta. And the chances for golfers of getting a free driver, much like the Callaway driver that Phil uses, have never been better as Mickelson is the odds-on favorite to win the 2010 Masters.

Starting today and ending April 7, golfers who purchase one of three new Callaway drivers - the Diablo Edge, FT-Tour or FT-iZ - at any Golfsmith store across the country will have the purchase price of their Callaway driver fully refunded by Golfsmith if Phil wins the Masters at Augusta, April 8-11.

"We're kicking off the season with the first major of the year and the best player in the field," said Marty Hanaka, president and CEO of Golfsmith. "Phil is the hottest player on tour and Callaway's new drivers are better than ever before. There is pent up demand from golfers for new clubs, and with this promotion exclusively at Golfsmith, it's a great way to inspire golfers everywhere to root for Phil at this year's Masters."

"Our 2010 drivers are generating an unprecedented amount of excitement, and Phil's popularity is at an all-time high" said Brian Groves, Vice President, Marketing, Callaway Golf. "We're thrilled to partner with Golfsmith on this promotion and looking forward to placing the best performing drivers on the market into the hands of consumers."

Golfsmith estimates thousands of people will take advantage of the promotion, which is available through more than seventy stores from coast to coast. To learn more about Golfsmith's promotion with Callaway Golf, stop by any Golfsmith store or visit www.golfsmith.com/winwithPhil . This promotion is available only in Golfsmith's U.S. stores. No purchase necessary.

This promotion is only sponsored by Golfsmith International Holdings, Inc. and Callaway Golf and is not sponsored by or endorsed by, and there is no affiliation with Augusta National, Inc. or any other entity.

Editor's Note: With Tiger Woods announcing his return this morning, Las Vegas has placed him at 3-1 odds of winning The Masters - effectively making him the favorite. Mickelson is now at 6-1.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Award-Winning Longaberger Golf Club Raises the Bar Yet Again

Ohio’s No. 1 Rated Course Remains Proactive, Responds to Consumer Needs

(NASHPORT, Ohio) – Routinely named the best public-access course in the Buckeye State, Longaberger Golf Club – managed by Billy Casper Golf (BCG) – is raising the bar with a variety of value-laden rates and packages for the 2010 season.

Introduced for the first time since Longaberger Golf Club opened a decade ago are weekday rates.

2010 Rates Weekday Weekend
April 16 – May 20 $64 $79
May 21 – Oct. 3 $79 $99
Oct. 4 – Oct. 31 $64 $79

Rates are for 18 holes and include cart and range balls. An early spring (through April 15) and winter (Nov. 1 through closing) rate is offered at $59.

Also new this season is a Resident Pass. Golfers living within local, designated zip codes will receive a free card that provides them with $20 off every round (including twilight, 9-hole and replay), 20 percent off non-sale golf shop purchases, 10 percent off clubhouse food and beverages, additional specials throughout the season and access to Resident Pass only special events and clinics.

The Player’s Pass is being offered again for $29.95, which provides golfers with $20 off each time they play, and pays for itself after the first round, which includes a free logo hat. Like the Resident Pass, golfers receive the golf shop and food and beverage discounts, and access to exclusive events and clinics.

Longaberger Golf Club – an award-winning design by noted architect Arthur Hills – returns the popular unlimited golf option, as well.

Unlimited Golf Weekday Weekend
April 16 – May 20 $109 $129
May 21 – Oct. 3 $129 $149
Oct. 4 – Oct. 31 $109 $129

Unlimited Golf rates above include cart, range balls and lunch. A special Unlimited Golf rate of $79, with no lunch, is available in early spring (through April 15) and winter (Nov. 1 through closing).

“We’re primed for an incredible 2010 season and these money-saving options are in place to make it even easier for people to experience this amazing course,” said Joseph Livingood, senior vice president of Billy Casper Golf, which manages Longaberger Golf Club.

Stay-and-Play options also are available. Packages vary from two rounds of golf at Longaberger Golf Club to splitting rounds with EagleSticks (“9 Stars of Golf”) or Cumberland Trail (“The Woven Trail”) with overnight accommodations at nearby hotels, which all include a free continental breakfast.

Longaberger was named a Top 10 public-access course in the country in the 2010 edition of the Golf World magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards and is regularly honored by Golf Digest, GOLF Magazine, and Golfweek as one of the nation’s finest courses. Longaberger’s layout unravels across rolling hills, with panoramic sightlines highlighting the immaculate playing conditions. The 7,243-yard design challenges the lowest handicapper, while five sets of tees shrink the gem to a manageable distance for all levels of players.

For more information about Longaberger Golf Club, please visit www.longabergergolfclub.com or call 740.763.1100.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Mississippi Golf Hits the Jackpot with Best-in-Kind Acclaim

State Doubles the Number of Courses Garnering Distinction in Golfweek Magazine’s ‘America’s Best Courses You Can Play’

(JACKSON, Mississippi) – The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) Division of Tourism today announces that 10 courses in the state – double the previous number so honored – have been voted to Golfweek’s “America’s Best Course You Can Play” by state for 2010.

The courses – with their location and architect – are:
* Fallen Oak, Saucier (Tom Fazio)
* Dancing Rabbit, Philadelphia (Azaleas Course; Tom Fazio and Jerry Pate)
* Grand Bear, Saucier (Jack Nicklaus)
* The Bridges GC at Hollywood Casino, Bay St. Louis (Arnold Palmer)
* Shell Landing, Gautier (Davis Love III)
* The Preserve GC, Vancleave (Jerry Pate)
* Dancing Rabbit, Philadelphia (Oaks Course; Fazio and Pate)
* The Oaks, Pass Christian (Landmark)
* Timberton GC, Hattiesburg (Mark McCumber)
* Windance G&CC, Gulfport (Mark McCumber)

“Mississippi’s increased number of courses listed in Golfweek’s ‘America’s Best Courses You Can Play’ reflects the depth of its high-quality layouts,” said Dr. Bradley S. Klein, Golfweek Senior Golf Course Architecture Editor. “Mississippi golf continues to impress our raters.”

To determine the nation’s most deserving layouts Golfweek dispatches 550 raters across America to examine courses for their overall strength of routing, feature shaping, natural setting, greens, variety and memorability of holes, conditioning and maintenance, landscape management and other criteria.

“Mississippi is honored to have these courses saluted for their excellence, and gratified that Golfweek raters think so well of our overall golf course inventory that they doubled the number of courses listed in this ‘best-of’ compilation,” said Mary Beth Wilkerson, MDA Tourism Division Director. “We hope this critical endorsement further entices travelers to visit Mississippi and discover our wealth of attractions, including golf courses, history, casino resorts, Blues and Country music trails, southern hospitality, and many other attractions.”

Eight of the 10 Mississippi courses cited for distinction by Golfweek are amenities of casino resorts. Mississippi is the nation’s third largest gaming destination and the best golf-and-gaming destination in America.

Located 15 miles north of opulent Beau Rivage Resort & Casino (www.beaurivage.com) on a 510-acre tract, Fallen Oak (www.fallenoak.com) unveils adjacent to the DeSoto National Forest. It will host the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic, a Champions TOUR event April 26-May 2. The course, ranked No. 19 nationally in Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, opened in 2006. A rolling landscape covered in oak and pine ridges, magnolias, pecan groves, large lakes, winding streams and wetlands define the layout. Built upon the ancestral lands of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, Dancing Rabbit (www.dancingrabbitgolf.com) is the Azaleas and Oaks courses – 14,000-plus combined yards of breathtaking beauty and challenge. Nestled serenely among ancient pines and hardwoods, each of these par 72 masterpieces embraces the gently rolling hills and valleys indigenous to this part of the state (Pines Region). Owned and operated by the Choctaws, the golf club is part of Pearl River Resort (www.pearlriverresort.com), home to an array of amenities, including water theme park, spa, shopping, gaming and more. Jack Nicklaus-designed Grand Bear (www.harrahs.com/golf/GrandBear/) is peppered with towering pines, natural cypress wetlands, secluded fairways, deep bunkers and impeccably manicured greens. Five different tee levels will test the skills of even the most avid golfer. The course itself measures 7,204 yards from the Grizzly Bear tees and 4,802 from the Teddy Bear’s. Don’t let the tee names distract you from choosing the appropriate yardage. As you will soon find out, this course feels a little like Augusta with all the excitement of a Pinehurst. One legend deserves another, so it is with Arnold Palmer-designed Bridges Golf Club at Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis (www.hollywoodcasinobsl.com/golf/). This shot-makers’ paradise is graced by its namesake bridges, which wind artistically and strategically throughout the gorgeous property. Adjacent to the casino and near an extensive, full-service RV Park, the course is but one of many amenities of the resort, which regularly hosts marquee entertainment acts, music and otherwise. Shell Landing Golf Club (www.shelllanding.com) in Gautier was designed by Davis Love III and enjoys a partnership with the IP Casino Resort Spa (www.ipbiloxi.com). The championship, 18-hole, par-72 layout features all of the Gulf Coast’s stunningly diverse natural resources. Named for the rare gopher turtles that thrive in the property’s protected habitat, Shell Landing mixes tall pines, marshes, bayous and wetlands with rolling hills to frame an inspired, challenging layout that is both fun and memorable. Designed by U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate, the Preserve Golf Club (www.preservegc.com) is an 18-hole, par-71 championship course surrounded by 1,800 acres of nature conservancy preserve. The native species and surrounding preserve dictate the layout of the 245-acre course. Tall, slender long leaf pines line the fairways, wooden bridges cross the wetlands and majestic live oaks reach over the course, which is an amenity of the Palace Casino Resort (www.palacecasinoresort.com). The Oaks Golf Club (www.theoaksgolfclub.com) in Pass Christian opened in 1998 and was designed by Landmark National, well known architects of PGA West and Kiawah. The 7,000-yard-course design stands on its own as a distinctive golf track, but adding a colorful titillating perk are the Hooters Beverage Cart Girls, who serve players while wearing their signature orange shorts, white sleeveless tops, white socks and sneakers. Mississippi’s hospitality is always showcased at Timberton Golf Club in Hattiesburg (www.timbertongolf.com), which Golf Digest rates 4.5 stars (out of five possible). In addition to fine customer service, the Mark McCumber-designed course has hosted PGA Tour event qualifying, the Mississippi State Open, and numerous USGA & PGA qualifying events. Last but not least, Windance Country Club (www.windancecc.com) has hosted the Ben Hogan and Nike tours and players such as 2003 U.S. Open Champion Jim Furyk, Tom Lehman, and Alan Doyle. The Adams Golf Pro Tour Series currently calls Windance home for their Island View Casino Tour Championship event. Known for its fast, pitched greens, Windance is an amenity of the Island View Casino Resort (www.islandviewcasino.com).

For more information about these courses or to schedule a visit to Mississippi, call toll-free to 866-801-8551 or go to www.visitmississippi.org and receive a free Golf Travel Guide and suggested play-and-stay itineraries.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

HONMA Golf Introduces the BERES MG700 Iron

(JAPAN) - HONMA Golf Co. has released the fourth generation BERES 7-Series, MG700.

The MG700 consists of a two-piece structure of SUS630 body, ES230 convex forged-variable-thickness-face. By forging the face it provides a mild feel at impact, thus reducing the harshness felt from most stainless steel irons. Each iron has a strategic weight distribution system. Adding tungsten nickel weights to the toe and heel boost the highest moment of inertia of any Honma iron ever produced.

The MG700 design adds power to the sides to enhance carry and cuts down loss of distance during off-center hits. In addition, a carry-boosting design change, 7 grams to the toe and 5 grams to the heel were added from the 4to 8 iron to provide forgiveness and power. The 9 iron through sand wedge feature 5 grams evenly distributed on the perimeter for maneuverability due to shorter gravity point distance.

The MG700 conforms to the 2010 USGA new groove rule.

The standard production MG700 is a 2-Star grade up to the ultra-elaborate 5-Star grade featuring Pt1000 Platinum, 24k gold plating, medallions, hosel rings and ion plated shaft. The MG700 features the HONMA New ARMRQ UD49 graphite shaft for amateur players with average head speed. The MG700 can be ordered with the New ARMRQ UD45, UD54, UD62, UD70 and UD75 shafts by made to order only. The MG700 is available as a 10-piece set or can be broken into a partial set as per the customer's preference.

The SAKATA Factory, one of the largest golf club manufacturing facilities in the world where each and every golf club is painstakingly handcrafted, passing through hundreds of hands and taking as long as six months to produce the most beautiful golf clubs on the planet.

Contact Premier Golf Distributors for more information on these products: information@honmagolf.com or www.honmagolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

The Territory Earns Lofty Status in Statewide Ranking

GolfLink Places Southwest Oklahoma’s Premier Golf-Residential Community Course ahead of Southern Hills – Site of Numerous Major Championships

(Southwest Oklahoma) – The Territory Golf and Country Club, just outside the quaint town of Duncan and 75 minutes from Oklahoma City, has been named No. 3 in GolfLink's list of the “Best Oklahoma Golf Courses.” The Randy Heckenkemper-designed course finished ahead of Southern Hills Country Club – host of three U.S. Opens and four PGA Championships.

GolfLink's list of “Best Oklahoma Golf Courses” details the top public and private golf courses in the state. The GolfLink list is calculated from an objective range of factors, including the preferences of up to a million or more visitors to its Web site every month, which contributes to this list being a definitive guide and credible, objective source.

“The GolfLink recognition is a wonderful compliment,” says Rick Braught, who along with his wife Barbara, owns and operates The Territory. "From Day One, our goal has been to develop a course, club and community which provide an exceptional lifestyle experience.”

The Territory’s telling brand promise – Golf & Community as it Should Be – underscores Braught’s goals for The Territory.

A modified target-style design that unfolds over rolling hills and through fields of native vegetation, the course stretches to 7,100 yards and features multiple teeing areas to accommodate all players. A state-of-the-art training facility and a three-hole short course add to the experience and options.

Off the golf course, family-focused amenities include a multi-sport recreation court and luxurious pool where guests relax and families enjoy Flick 'n Floats – "dive-in movies" shown on a large, inflatable movie screen. For culinary aficionados, Chef Keith Zinke plies his trade in the Prairie House, where delicious meals are joined by regular themed parties and wine tasting events.

For more information on The Territory, call 580.475.0075 or visit www.territorygolf.com. To follow The Territory on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/territorygolf, or become a fan of The Territory on Facebook by logging onto www.facebook.com/territorygolf.

Nike Golf Unveils New Premium Hybrids in the Victory Red Line

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Nike Golf is introducing a new hybrid that has been developed as a result of the meticulous work done by Nike’s team of engineers along with Nike’s talented athletes on Tour – the Victory Red (VR) Hybrids.

The VR Hybrids, as with the entire VR line, convey beauty, refinement and premium sophistication.

Created to perform for the best players in the world, the VR Hybrids feature a Tour-inspired design that enhances the power of physics. Nike Athlete Charl Schwartzel already has won with an 18-degree Nike VR Hybrid in his bag on the PGA European Tour in 2010.

To optimize workability and distance, Nike Golf has slightly opened the face angle and shifted the center of gravity.

“We have accomplished what we wanted to with these hybrids,” said Tom Stites, Director of Club Creation for Nike Golf. “We wanted to achieve a higher launch angle with significantly less spin. We’ve done that through altering the face angle and finding the proper center of gravity measurements.”

To achieve longer distance, the VR Hybrids feature a 455 Ultra Thin Face with Nike’s distinctive Split Compression Channel that also exists in the VR STR8-FIT Fairway Woods.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sweetgrass Golf Club Offers ‘Perfect 4-Some’ Package

Includes Two Nights Lodging, Three Rounds at Award-Winning Courses (Sweetgrass, TimberStone, Marquette Graywalls)

(HARRIS, MI) – You love your golf trips – correct that: you live for them – and you count the days each year until the next one. But the recession’s put a crimp in your wallet – and possibly your plans – so you’re not sure if your sacred golf pilgrimages will be casualties.

They don’t have to be, thanks to the Island Resort & Casino in Michigan’s bucolic Upper Peninsula. It offers the “Perfect 4-Some” – a combination of award-winning golf at Sweetgrass (an amenity of the resort casino), Marquette Greywalls and TimberStone – with excellent accommodations for $249. That’s an amazing, value-laden deal in which each unit costs $50 (three rounds, two nights lodging).

You may find a better price somewhere for that amount of golf and lodging, but you likely won’t find it with courses as highly decorated and a resort casino so well-appointed.

The Perfect 4-Some showcases three of the highest-rated courses in Michigan – out of the more than 700 possibilities. Sweetgrass, which enjoyed its first full season in 2009, has been honored by Golf Digest and Golfweek as one of “America’s Best New” courses, while it and Marquette Greywalls were recognized by Golfweek as “Top 20 Places to Play” in the golf-rich state. TimberStone is a rare recipient of Golf Digest’s prestigious five-star ranking, and Sweetgrass is rated one of the best casino courses in the nation by Golfweek.

“It’s more important than ever to provide great value for consumers and we believe the Perfect 4-Some is one of the best deals in golf travel,” said Sweetgrass Director of Golf Dave Douglas. “It’s an outstanding bargain, and we are excited to welcome new golfers and repeat guests this year.”

Planned for an April 26 opening, weather permitting, Sweetgrass boasts a variety of pricing options (www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com) with a basic 18-hole rate of $75, including GPS-equipped cart and range balls. The par-72 masterpiece – designed by Paul Albanese – stretches to 7,300 yards from the tips, with five sets of tees to accommodate all levels.

Incorporating Native American lore and traditions throughout the layout, Sweetgrass pays tribute to its tribal legacy through subtle elements on each hole. From a sprinkling of the namesake sweetgrass – an herb used in healing rituals – to intricate rockwork, specially crafted bunkers and historic bridges, the course tells many compelling stories.

Sweetgrass Golf Club and the Island Resort & Casino are easily accessible via Green Bay’s Austin Straubel International Airport, as well as a pair of regional airports in Escanaba and Marquette.

Additional Sweetgrass rates include:
Island Club – Island* $59
Island Club – Pearl $55
Island Club – Gold $50
Island Club – Ruby $45
Island Club – Platinum $39
Tri-County Resident** $49
UPGA (must have membership card) $49
Spring Rate (until May 31) $40
Greywalls and TimberStone Members $39
Same Day Replay $30
*Island Club levels based on gaming play
**Proof of Residency in Delta, Dickinson or Menominee Counties

For more information on Sweetgrass Golf Club or the Island Resort & Casino, please visit www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com, www.islandresortandcasino.com or call 800-682-6040, ext. 2252.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

OGIO's New Fred Couples Line Delivers Affordable, Classic Luxury

(Bluffdale, Utah) - Whether on or off the course, Fred Couples is widely known for being both smooth and stylish. The 1992 Masters Champion and 2009 Presidents Cup captain has perfected fluidity of motion for more than three decades.

This year, he has teamed with tech-savvy gear bag manufacturer OGIO to craft a signature travel line that reflects his easy, classic and technically gifted style.

"The golf community deserves luxurious, affordable travel gear that, like Fred Couples, is both effortless and stylish at once," explains the company's global vp of golf, Tom Gocke. "We worked with Fred personally to bring his cool and easygoing nature to a line that lives up to his exceptional standards for craftsmanship."

Each of the six bags in OGIO's Fred Couples signature travel collection is sleek and luxurious, while still enveloping high-performance components. Built with a combination of 1680 ballistic nylon and constructed leather, the all-black line includes:

* Monster Golf Travel Bag (MSRP: $340.00) - Designed to carry everything from stand to Tour golf bags, the Monster offers helmet-like protection with the aid of SLED (Structural Load Equalizing Deck) technology surrounding the bag's base. Oversized wheels facilitate easy maneuvering, as padded ballistic nylon and tarpaulin exterior reinforce the bag's contents. Measures 52" x 17" x 15".

* 9800 Rolling Duffel Bag (MSRP: $280.00) - The supersized 9800 combines oversized, off-road wheels; a retractable Pullman handle; plus huge, padded compartments to facilitate safe and organized packing. The signature 9800 offers added protection using OGIO's SLED (Structural Load Equalizing Deck) system. Measures 34" x 16" x 16".

* Terminal Rolling Duffel Bag (MSRP: $250.00) - The OGIO Terminal is an organized wonder featuring two oversized packing panels, interior mesh dividers, suit straps, and neoprene lining - all of which can be maneuvered with a retractable Pullman handle. Measures 29" x 16" x 13".

* Layover Carry On Size Rolling Bag (MSRP: $190.00) - Compact and perfectly sized to fit overhead bins, the Layover includes a two-stage Pullman handle and smooth urethane wheels for optimum navigation. The Layover delivers plenty of space for shoes and other necessities with the aid of two low-profile external pockets and a 3" expansion zipper. Measures 22" x 14" x 10".

* Street City Corp Messenger Bag (MSRP: $110.00) - This streamlined personal organizer manages and protects laptops, phones, power cords, files and work/travel necessities, identified with iconic symbols to promote maximum storage. Measures 12.5" x 17.5" x 6".

* Epic Backpack (MSRP: $120.00) -Designed to accommodate most 17" laptops, the Epic 2500 cubic-inch pack offers side-entry padded laptop protection, front strap cell phone pocket, plenty of file dividers and pencil sleeves, two side insulated water bottle sleeves with leak ports, and loads of other ergonomic and digital-friendly features. Measures 20" x 13" x 10".

Like its namesake, the Fred Couples collection is built to be enduring, complete with a lifetime warranty against defects. OGIO's new Fred Couples signature collection will begin shipping to fine retail and sporting goods stores beginning April 2010. For more information, visit http://www.ogio.com/.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Circling Raven Golf Club Ready for Earliest Season Opening Ever

El Nino Winter Weather Pattern Enables Award-Winning Amenity of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort & Hotel to Open March 26

(WORLEY, Idaho) – Good news for golfers came today via an announcement from Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort & Hotel in Idaho’s panhandle, an easy, scenic drive from eastern Washington’s Spokane Airport.

Circling Raven Golf Club, rated one of the top 100 public or resort courses in the country by GOLF, Golfweek and Golf Digest magazines, will open in three weeks – on March 26 – its earliest date ever.

Director of Golf Tom Davidson, PGA, and Superintendent Brian Woster, GCSAA, have the brawny, pure golf course design by Gene Bates primed for players.

“We’ve had temperatures in the 50s and very little moisture since December,” said Davidson, 2009 PGA Northwest Section Merchandiser of the Year. “We’re excited to get going and hope golfers take advantage of our bargain shoulder-season rates.”

“Bargain” is the right word. Circling Raven is renowned for keeping its playing fees affordable – even in peak season – despite its national acclaim and 45 best-in-kind awards garnered since its first full season (2004).

Shoulder-season green fees and package/stay-and-play rates are even more value-laden.

From season open to May 13, and Oct. 4 to season close, players pay daily green fees of $65 Monday through Thursday, and $75 Friday through Sunday.

Shoulder season (April 1 through May 13) stay-and-play rates are even more astounding. Packages include golf rounds for two people and double occupancy/shared room. Prices start at $170.

Green fees alone at some top-100 courses – and many non-top-100 tracks – cost substantially more than that, let alone include comfortable lodging and post-golf gaming options. This is partly why Circling Raven, the No. 1 rated course in Idaho by Golfweek magazine raters, is considered one of the world’s great golf values.

Book tee times 24 hours a day: 800-523-2464. All rates include 18 holes of golf, cart, GPS, and use of 25-acre practice facility. Weekend rates apply on holidays. Replays (same day) are $45. For complete price and playing options visit www.circlingraven.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com