(Castle Pines, CO) - On Oct. 1, the golfers at Four Mile Ranch Golf Course in Canon City, Colo., will attempt to set two world records:
- Most holes in one on a golf course in a single day
- The lowest "ringer" score on a golf course in a single day
Internationally acclaimed architect Jim Engh's magical design will be set up by John Feeney, the course superintendent and wizard of agronomy, with the pin positions in the lowest point in each green's bowls to facilitate every player making holes-in-one, albatrosses, eagles and birdies.
The record the golfers are trying to beat is the 1989 US Open Record at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, NY; a record of 4 holes-in-one on a single day.
Two days ago, yardbarker.com reported the following:
"Within a span of only five hours, four golfers somehow managed to accomplish the seemingly impossible for a casual player. Don Starkey, Ron Kosits, Maynard Thompson, and Merlyn Wilson all registered holes-in-one at the Plantation Course in Leesburg, FL - seriously.
"To put the feat into perspective, the National Hole-in-One Association calculated the odds of four golfers getting a hole-in-one at the same course on the same day. The results say something like that happens once every 260,000 days, or 712.33 years. In other words, humans would be lucky to still exist as a species the next time something like this happens."
The course will be set up at 6,500 yards, par 72. Each par 3 will play from at least 150 yards.
For a prime time rack rate fee, golfers will receive an 18-hole green fee, cart, range balls, one Guinness Beer upon completing their round, and a certificate acknowledging their attempt to break a world record. For slightly more, golfers can play all day on a space available basis.
As sponsor, J. J. Keegan, Managing Principal of Golf Convergence stated, "Golf is about entertainment. This is a fabulous event that is attracting golfer interest from the entire Front Range of Colorado. Will the record be broken? - possibly. More importantly, golfers will have a fun day at Four Mile Ranch playing Jim Engh's intriguing golf course, and the golf course will generate incremental revenue as it enters the slower Fall season. This is a perfect blend of the game of golf balanced with the business of golf, as the course booked to near capacity within 72 hours of announcing this exciting attempt."
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Friday, September 30, 2011
TaylorMade Brand Ambassador Jim Flick Enters 2011 PGA Golf Professionals Hall of Fame
Flick joins six notable PGA golf professionals selected for their service to the game
(CARLSBAD, CALIF.) — Celebrated golf instructor and TaylorMade brand ambassador Jim Flick headlines a group of seven golf legends to be inducted into the 2011 PGA Golf Professionals Hall of Fame. The ceremony takes place on Nov. 2 at the PGA Museum of Golf at PGA Village in Florida.
Flick is joined in the 2011 class by PGA Honorary President Jim Remy; former PGA of America Chief Executive Officer Jim Awtrey; 2008 PGA Golf Professional of the Year Jim Antkiewicz; 2009 PGA Golf Professional of the Year Jack Barber; Sun Country PGA Section founding father Guy Wimberly; and Errie Ball, at age 100 the second-longest serving PGA professional and last survivor of the inaugural 1934 Masters field.“I am thrilled and honored that the PGA has recognized my efforts, and I can never be appreciative enough of all that the game has given to me and the opportunities that it’s afforded me in my career,” Flick said. “And I am very proud to be a member of the TaylorMade family—this year, at age 81, I’ve had my best year ever, and much of that has to do with the MAT-T technology and other resources that TaylorMade provides that help me reinforce what I teach. I feel very fortunate to be involved with such a wonderful company.”
Flick, 81, is one of the most prolific instructors in golf history, having taught the game in 23 nations while elevating the business of golf instruction. He was elected to PGA membership in 1959, and served as director of instruction for Golf Digest’s Schools while guiding more than 1,000 multi-day programs. He was co-founder with legendary Jack Nicklaus of the Nicklaus-Flick Golf Schools (1991-2003); operated his own Jim Flick Premier School in 2002; and served as a lead instructor for the ESPN Golf Schools (2003-05). Flick joined TaylorMade Golf Company in 2006, providing instruction at The Kingdom and serving as company ambassador.
A native of Bedford, Ind., Flick is the son of Bedford City Champion Coleman Flick, whose influence inspired his son to take up the game of golf at age 10. Flick would go on to attend Wake Forest University on a basketball scholarship, rooming for six months of his sophomore year with Arnold Palmer, then a junior. Flick attempted tournament golf by turning professional following graduation in 1952 before serving in the U.S. Army from 1953-54.
In 1955 he became assistant professional at Evansville (Ind.) Country Club, followed by PGA head professional positions at Connersville (1956-60) and Losantiville (1961-74) Country Clubs; treasurer of the Southern Ohio PGA Section; and Section president (1967-69). Flick was director of instruction at Desert Mountain in Scottsdale, Ariz. (1986 through 2005), before joining The Kingdom at TaylorMade. Flick has been a frequent contributor to national golf publications for decades, and was involved with or authored five books: Square to Square Golf (1974), Square to Square in Pictures (1974), How to Become a Complete Golfer (1980), Jim Flick on Golf (1997), and Swing Analysis by Jim Flick – Jack Nicklaus, Simply the Best (2007).
No stranger to top honors, Flick was named the third recipient of the PGA Teacher of the Year award in 1988, and the ninth instructor inducted into the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame in 2002, the same year that he was inducted into the Southern Ohio PGA Hall of Fame. Flick was also a 1995 inductee into the Wake Forest University Athletic Hall of Fame and was one of Golf World’s Top 10 Teachers of the 20th Century in 1999. Flick has coached more than 200 Tour professionals among countless amateurs and premier junior players, headed by Nicklaus and Tom Lehman. Flick resides in Carlsbad, Calif., with his wife Geri.
“It is with a great deal of pride that The PGA of America welcomes seven individuals to the PGA Golf Professional Hall of Fame, who by their life’s work have made significant and lasting contributions to The PGA and the game of golf,” said PGA of America President Allen Wronowski. “These seven PGA Professionals have exhibited the passion for building the game and serving others that extends beyond their job description, and their names will be forever inscribed among the leaders in making golf the greatest game.”
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Titleist Introduces New MB And CB Irons For Skilled Golfers
Updates the Classic Looks, Feel and Performance of Tour-Proven Muscle Back and Cavity Back Blades
(Fairhaven, MA) - Staying true to its heritage of crafting high performance clubs for serious golfers, Titleist introduces new MB and CB forged irons (712 Series) featuring improved looks, feel and performance. Both models build upon the tour-proven classic designs of their 710 series predecessors. Brought to market in 2009, the 710 MB and CB irons confirmed Titleist as the leader in traditional forged iron design. In fact, since their initial launch, the Titleist MB has been the most-played iron model on the PGA TOUR. In combination with the CB, AP1 and AP2 models, Titleist irons have consistently been a leading choice of players across the worldwide professional tours.
"When we started formulating plans for the new MB and CB designs, we knew that the project would be a reinterpretation, not a complete reinvention," said Steve Pelisek, General Manager, Titleist Golf Clubs. "The original MB and CB models were so well received on Tour, as well as in the marketplace, that we knew we had succeeded in delivering the core design fundamentals that resonate with the traditional blade player. We did identify through our work with the world's best players, however, some areas where we could make improvements, which we incorporated in the new models. The new MB and CB still embody those key design elements that made the first generation so well accepted."New MB and CB irons: The new MB and CB irons maintain the classic lines, profile, solid sound, feel and shot-shaping precision of classic forgings. However, they also provide modern playability, a benefit resulting from more than thirty years of player research and development, engineering innovation and advances in manufacturing processes. The new MB is a classic muscle back forged iron, while the new CB, also forged, features a shallow cavity-back design. Both the new MB and CB feature a redesigned back that features a faceted surface across the back affectionately know as the "dog bone." This surface is larger in the heel and toe while narrowing behind the impact area. This feature locates more mass behind the impact area for the traditional solid feel expected from blade irons.
Both new models feature a Tour-preferred satin finish that reduces glare and accentuates the toe and topline profile for easier alignment of the face and confidence at address. Based on player feedback, the sole of the new MB has been improved, with trailing edge and heel relief for reduced resistance through the turf. The new MB sole is great for players with a shallow angle of attack who tend to pick the ball off the turf, while the slightly wider sole CB helps players that are more aggressive through the turf. Below is a comprehensive list of features and benefits for the new MB and 7 CB irons:
NEW TITLEIST MB IRONS FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Overview/Player Profile: High performance muscle back forged irons with improved feel, classic looks and superior shot control for the highly skilled golfer. Forged from 1025 carbon steel with modern satin chrome plating, MB irons feature constant blade length, minimal progressive offset and a thin topline.
Solid Feel: New muscleback design with mass behind the impact area for solid feel.
Traditional Shape: A thin but soft topline and rounder profile provide a classic but improved contemporary look.
Tour Validated Flight: Traditional blade irons with Tour-standard lofts for player preferred shot and trajectory control with workability.
Shot Making Confidence: A smaller, constant blade length with minimal progressive offset for preferred set up appearance and superior shot making and minimal turf resistance.
Modified High Performance Sole: Narrow, cambered sole with optimized bounce angles for crisp contact. Enhanced relief in the heel and trailing edge provides greater playability and better turf interaction.
Stock Shaft and Grip: High performance, tour-proven Dynamic Gold steel shaft provides player preferred feel, weight feedback and shot control. Tour-proven feel and traction of the new Titleist Tour Velvet Rubber by Golf Pride. Additional shaft, grip, length and lie options available through Titleist Custom.
Grooves: Modified V (42 degree wall), 2010 conforming.
Price/Availability: Available in right and left hand on November 18. MSRP: $140 per club/steel; $165/graphite.
NEW TITLEIST CB IRONS FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Overview/Player Profile: High performance, forged cavity back irons with improved feel, classic looks and superior shot control for the highly skilled golfer. Forged from 1025 carbon steel with modern satin chrome plating, CB irons feature constant blade lengths, minimal constant offset and a think topline.
Improved Solid Feel: Optimized shallow cavity muscle design with mass behind the impact area for solid feel.
Superior Appearance: A soft topline and rounder profile provide a classic but improved contemporary look.
Tour Validated Flight: Traditional blade irons with Tour-standard lofts for player preferred shot and trajectory control with workability.
Shot Making Confidence: A smaller, constant blade length with minimal progressive offset for preferred set up appearance and superior shot making and minimal turf resistance.
High Performance Sole: Slightly wider cambered sole for smooth turf entry and release.
Stock Shaft and Grip: High performance, tour-proven Dynamic Gold steel shaft provides player preferred feel, weight feedback and shot control. Tour-proven feel and traction of the new Titleist Tour Velvet Rubber by Golf Pride. Additional shaft, grip, length and lie options available through Titleist Custom.
Grooves: Modified V (42 degree wall), 2010 conforming.
Price/Availability: Available in right and left hand on November 18. MSRP: $140 per club/steel; $165/graphite.
ON TOUR: When Titleist debuted its new 712 series (AP1, AP2, CB, MB) prototype irons at the AT&T National, 19 players transitioned the first week they were available, including Nick Watney, who won the event playing the new AP2 model the first time he used them in competition. Two weeks later, Titleist Brand Ambassador Chris Kirk trusted a set of new 712 CB prototype irons to capture his first PGA TOUR title at the Viking Classic, while runner-up, Tom Pernice, Jr. opted for the new 712 AP2 model. The same week at the 140th Open Championship, Titleist Brand Ambassador Rickie Fowler posted his first career top-5 finish in a major after playing the new 712 MB prototype irons for the first time in competition.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Imperial Kicks off the Fall Golf Season with Two New Styles - Storm Chaser And Silencer
(Aurora, CO) - To coincide with the start of the fall golf season, Imperial announced the addition of the Storm Chaser and Silencer to the company's new product line.
The caps are constructed from a waterproof nylon/spandex fabric lined with micro-fleece, making them both wind resistant and waterproof. Both feature a cool-tech sweatband with moisture wicking and quick dry properties. The caps are available in two sizes, M/L fits 7 - 7 1/4 and L/XL fits 7 3/8 - 7 5/8.
The main difference in the two styles is the fold down ear flaps available on the Silencer. The flaps can be worn up or down and provide an additional layer of warmth. Additionally, the Storm Chaser features eyelets for ventilation.
The Storm Chaser and Silencer are available in black and both are available for immediate order and delivery. For more information visit www.imperialsports.com or call 800-950-1916.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Divots Sportswear's 2011 Fall Collection Highlighted By Warm, Lightweight Sweater Vests
New line complements Divots' extensive private label offerings
(Norcross, GA) - Divots Sportswear (www.divots.com), one of the largest private-label golf apparel companies in the country, is featuring a new range of comfortable, lightweight sweater vests in its 2011 Fall Apparel Collection.
The stylish vest features a mock collar with a quarter-zip, banded sleeves and is offered in a cotton/acrylic blend for incomparable comfort, warmth and durability. It also features a water-repellent finish for protection against the elements.
According to Divots President Bob Friedman, "In addition to be being stylish and lightweight, our sweater vest collection is now fully stocked in-house and ready for immediate fall shipment."
The Divots sweater vests come in five colors: Black, Navy, Grey, Heather and Natural. MSRP $60.00
For more information about the complete Divots Sportswear range call 800.847.3467 or view their online catalog at www.divots.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wilson Golf Continues Support Of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation Through Its Hope Line of Premium Women's Golf Equipment
Wilson makes a minimum annual donation of $100,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to fund clinical and genetic research worldwide
(CHICAGO) - As Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins in October, Wilson Golf, the Chicago-based company whose irons have captured more Major Championship titles than any other golf club manufacturer - 61, today announced that it will continue to support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation by donating one percent of its sales from the Hope line of premium women's golf equipment to support clinical and genetic research worldwide. This marks the 14th consecutive year Wilson Golf has partnered with BCRF, supporting the organization throughout the year.
"We are proud to be a long time supporter of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation through the Wilson Golf Hope product line since 2004," said Tim Clarke, general manager of Wilson Golf. "The Hope product line provides our consumers with quality women's golf equipment and a way that they can join our team to support a great cause."
Wilson, the Official Sporting Goods Equipment Sponsor of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, donates a minimum of $100,000 annually to the organization. To date, Wilson has donated more than $2 million to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
The Hope product line of women's golf equipment currently consists of the Hope Platinum box set and includes a cart bag, golf balls, a golf glove, a putter and a wedge. Hope golf balls are also available in an 18-ball eco-pouch in addition to the standard dozen and six-pack offerings in clear, pink and hot pink. In addition, there are matching accessories available in headwear, gloves and umbrellas.
For 2012, the Hope Platinum box set has been updated with a new, fresh look incorporating a sleeker color scheme which features the iconic pink ribbon - the premier symbol of breast cancer awareness.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Nike Golf Signs Top College Athlete Patrick Reed to its Roster of Professional Athletes
(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Nike Golf today announced the signing of Augusta State University stand out Patrick Reed. Reed has signed a multi-year agreement to represent the Swoosh and will be using Nike Golf clubs, ball, footwear, glove, bag, apparel, headwear and accessories.
“I am thrilled to begin my professional career and sport the Nike Swoosh from head-to-toe” said Reed. “I have had a lot of success with Nike during my junior and college careers and am looking forward to continued success with them as a professional.”
Reed made his professional debut in June 2011 at the PGA Tour’s FedEx St. Jude Championship and is competing this week at the PGA European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland.
Reed has been playing Nike Golf clubs and golf balls almost exclusively since he was 15-years old. He was one of the original juniors to participate in the Nike Elite Junior Golf Program.
A 21-year old born in San Antonio, Texas, Reed began his college career at the University of Georgia before transferring to Augusta State University for the 2010 season. In his first year with the Jaguars, Reed led the team to their first Division I NCAA team national title. In 2011 Reed helped the Jaguars win their second-consecutive NCAA team national championship closing out the final match-play round against the Georgia Bulldogs on the 17th hole to secure the win for his team. Reed went undefeated in the match play portion of the NCAA Championships, going 6-0 to help Augusta State win two NCAA titles. Reed was also named a NCAA Division I first team All-American in 2011 and finished his final season at Augusta State with a stroke average of 71.45.
Reed is utilizing all of his options to try to get his card for 2012. A former British Junior Open Champion, he teed it up in the first stage of the European Tour qualifying school last week in England and has advanced to the second stage. Reed will also participate in the PGA Tour Qualifying School later this year.
“Patrick is an extremely talented and aggressive player and we are excited to welcome him to the Nike Golf family,” said Mark Thaxton, Director of Sports Marketing for Nike Golf.
Reed’s Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Pro STR8-FIT 9.5 degrees
* Fairway Wood: Nike VR Pro 3-wood/15 degree
* Hybrid: Nike VR Pro 18-degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro Blades (3-PW)
* Wedges: Nike VR Pro 54 and 58-degree
* Putter: Nike Method 003
* Ball: Nike 20XI S
* Apparel: Nike Golf Tour Collection
* Footwear: Nike Golf Lunar Control
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
“I am thrilled to begin my professional career and sport the Nike Swoosh from head-to-toe” said Reed. “I have had a lot of success with Nike during my junior and college careers and am looking forward to continued success with them as a professional.”Reed made his professional debut in June 2011 at the PGA Tour’s FedEx St. Jude Championship and is competing this week at the PGA European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland.
Reed has been playing Nike Golf clubs and golf balls almost exclusively since he was 15-years old. He was one of the original juniors to participate in the Nike Elite Junior Golf Program.
A 21-year old born in San Antonio, Texas, Reed began his college career at the University of Georgia before transferring to Augusta State University for the 2010 season. In his first year with the Jaguars, Reed led the team to their first Division I NCAA team national title. In 2011 Reed helped the Jaguars win their second-consecutive NCAA team national championship closing out the final match-play round against the Georgia Bulldogs on the 17th hole to secure the win for his team. Reed went undefeated in the match play portion of the NCAA Championships, going 6-0 to help Augusta State win two NCAA titles. Reed was also named a NCAA Division I first team All-American in 2011 and finished his final season at Augusta State with a stroke average of 71.45.
Reed is utilizing all of his options to try to get his card for 2012. A former British Junior Open Champion, he teed it up in the first stage of the European Tour qualifying school last week in England and has advanced to the second stage. Reed will also participate in the PGA Tour Qualifying School later this year.
“Patrick is an extremely talented and aggressive player and we are excited to welcome him to the Nike Golf family,” said Mark Thaxton, Director of Sports Marketing for Nike Golf.
Reed’s Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Pro STR8-FIT 9.5 degrees
* Fairway Wood: Nike VR Pro 3-wood/15 degree
* Hybrid: Nike VR Pro 18-degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro Blades (3-PW)
* Wedges: Nike VR Pro 54 and 58-degree
* Putter: Nike Method 003
* Ball: Nike 20XI S
* Apparel: Nike Golf Tour Collection
* Footwear: Nike Golf Lunar Control
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
aboutGolf Takes a Swing for Ben and Gabbie
aboutGolf Supports Long-Time Advocate in Battle with Cancer
Hosted by Lebanon Country Club with LPGA Legend Jan Stephenson as Emcee
(Maumee, Ohio) - aboutGolf, the world leader in indoor golf simulation and golf performance technology, is sponsoring "Take a Swing for Ben and Gabbie", a golf tournament being conducted to support PGA Professional, Long Drive Champion and Trick Shot Mastermind Ben Witter and his family as they continue to battle cancer.
The event is being hosted by the Lebanon Country Club (Lebanon, Pa.) Oct. 10. Witter became an aboutGolf customer in 2003, when he installed an aboutGolf Simulator at Ben's Power Golf Learning Center, a teaching facility operated by he and his wife, Ann. Since that time, aboutGolf has partnered with Ben in many capacities.LPGA Tour star and 16-time LPGA tournament winner Jan Stephenson will host and emcee the event. Stephenson is a long time friend to Witter and will entertain the guests with shots off the first tee and playing with groups throughout the day, signing autographs and finally speaking at the dinner. Stephenson earned more than $3 million on the LPGA Tour over three decades paving the way for today's young stars.
"Ben is a true inspiration and an exceptional golf talent," says Bill Bales, founder of aboutGolf and chairman of its Board of Innovation, of which Witter is a member. "He has been an advocate for our technology and a gift to the game and its players. We are honored to give something back to him and encourage widespread support from the golfing community."
The tournament will feature a super-modified scramble in which players will face some of the same shots and challenging situations that Witter uses in his trick shot show, including:
* Hitting a tee shot with a putter
* Hitting a tee shot with a driver made from a fishing rod
* Hitting an intentional hook
* Hitting an intentional slice
* Hitting a drive with a hammer
Players will also be treated to performances on course by Remax World Long Drive Champion Carl Wolter and Canadian Long Drive Professional Brett Cleverdon. Players will have the chance to meet and receive some help from these professionals and observe their drives in excess of 400 yards.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Witter, his daughter Gabbie, who is also battling cancer, and his family. Interested sponsors and participants should contact Mike Swisher at (717) 272-1893 or mswisher@lebcc.com. Donations can be made beginning in the middle of October at www.takeaswing4benandgabbie.com.
About Ben Witter's Career and Battle with Cancer
The battle with cancer began when Witter, now 47, was 22 years old working as an assistant professional at Lebanon Country Club. Witter turned professional following his collegiate career, which was highlighted by three-time NCAA All American honors and two NCAA National Long Drive Championship titles at Indiana University of Pa.
While working as an assistant at Lebanon, Witter also pursued competition both locally and on the Florida Mini Tours and had aspirations of competing on the PGA Tour.
Shortly after turning professional, however, Witter was diagnosed with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the upper jaw and salivary glands which quickly changed both his life and career path.
While recovering from surgery and undergoing radiation treatments at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Witter began tapping a golf ball up and down in his hospital room to pass the time. The tapping routine evolved into a daily show for his doctors and nurses and by the time he was finished with treatment, he would have a daily crowd gathered in the hospital to witness the newest trick or stunt that he had mastered.
The little show that was born in the hospital grew over the years into a career that has now taken Witter to 38 states and 14 countries. In his shows, Witter uses his eye hand coordination, strength, balance and ball control to perform one of the most sought after golf trick shot shows in the world.
Over the past 25 years, Witter and his wife, Ann, have raised five children and continue to operate Ben's Power Golf Learning Center at Fairview Golf Course in Lebanon, Pa.
This past April, the Witter's youngest daughter, Gabbie was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer for which she is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments and surgery.
TaylorMade-adidas Golf Continues Relationship with PGA Tour Superstar Dustin Johnson
(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – TaylorMade-adidas Golf Company has announced a contract extension with PGA Tour superstar Dustin Johnson thru 2015. Johnson, will continue to play TaylorMade clubs and the Penta TP ball, feature the TaylorMade logo on the front of his headwear, use a TaylorMade staff bag and wear adidas Golf apparel and footwear.
"I believe that TaylorMade and adidas Golf make the best golf products in the world,” said Johnson. “From day one they’ve made sure that my equipment, apparel and footwear has been completely dialed in, helping me become a winner on tour. They’ve been like family to me and I want to continue my career with their support.”
Johnson, 27, won the opening event in this year’s FedEx Cup Playoffs - his fifth Tour win since joining the PGA Tour in 2008. Currently ranked No. 5 in the Official World Golf Rankings, he competed in the 2010 Ryder Cup Matches and will compete in the 2011 Presidents Cup in November.
"Dustin tops the charts in terms of talent, potential and charisma," said Bob Maggiore, vice president of global brand marketing. "He has the ability and determination to win anytime, anywhere, and the way he’s handled both victory and adversity during his first few years on tour has won him a huge fan following, and rightly so. He’s the real deal.”
Renowned for his athleticism and talent, Johnson’s big swing, deft touch and laid-back charisma have made him a fan favorite around the world. His seemingly effortless power makes him one of the Tour’s longest players – he currently ranks 2nd in driving distance – and his popularity has attracted plenty of attention off the golf course as well, where he has been the subject of numerous lifestyle feature magazine articles.
"Dustin is one of the most exciting, confident and magnetic young players in the world, and his athleticism and style continue to make him a perfect fit with TaylorMade-adidas Golf," said Chuck Presto, senior vice president of global sports marketing. "We’re thrilled to have him on board to showcase our brands around the world, and we’re glad he feels the same way.”
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
"I believe that TaylorMade and adidas Golf make the best golf products in the world,” said Johnson. “From day one they’ve made sure that my equipment, apparel and footwear has been completely dialed in, helping me become a winner on tour. They’ve been like family to me and I want to continue my career with their support.”Johnson, 27, won the opening event in this year’s FedEx Cup Playoffs - his fifth Tour win since joining the PGA Tour in 2008. Currently ranked No. 5 in the Official World Golf Rankings, he competed in the 2010 Ryder Cup Matches and will compete in the 2011 Presidents Cup in November.
"Dustin tops the charts in terms of talent, potential and charisma," said Bob Maggiore, vice president of global brand marketing. "He has the ability and determination to win anytime, anywhere, and the way he’s handled both victory and adversity during his first few years on tour has won him a huge fan following, and rightly so. He’s the real deal.”
Renowned for his athleticism and talent, Johnson’s big swing, deft touch and laid-back charisma have made him a fan favorite around the world. His seemingly effortless power makes him one of the Tour’s longest players – he currently ranks 2nd in driving distance – and his popularity has attracted plenty of attention off the golf course as well, where he has been the subject of numerous lifestyle feature magazine articles.
"Dustin is one of the most exciting, confident and magnetic young players in the world, and his athleticism and style continue to make him a perfect fit with TaylorMade-adidas Golf," said Chuck Presto, senior vice president of global sports marketing. "We’re thrilled to have him on board to showcase our brands around the world, and we’re glad he feels the same way.”
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Champ Zarma Partners with the New Difference Etonic Golf Shoe
(Marlborough, MA) - When it comes to technical advancements, golf footwear refuses to be left in the dust. Shoe manufacturers are looking for new and improved ways to keep golfers comfortable with traction and stability that allows a golfer to go for shots and not worry about their footwear equipment. One company with years of experience that has succeeded at this is Etonic.
CHAMP is proud to partner with Etonic on the launch of the Difference golf shoe. For the golfers who buy the Difference, included on the inside of the shoe are properties to reduce heat as well as added cushioning for comfort. When it comes to the outsole Etonic has chosen to accompany their PowerUp Technology Outsole System, with the CHAMP Zarma spikes. CHAMP Zarma is the latest offering by CHAMP and has quickly become known as the 'comfort cleat' by those who wear it.
CHAMP Zarma was launched less than a year ago and already has success on the professional golf tours. Features of CHAMP Zarma include a traction element constructed of durable abrasion resistant urethane, a comfort element of soft resilient shock absorbing material attached to a rigid base element, which incorporates the fastener. As in all of the CHAMP spikes, CHAMP Zarma has a wear indicator to let golfers know when it is an appropriate time to change out their spikes.
"Etonic was looking for a spike that would complete our new shoe and the CHAMP Zarma certainly did make a 'difference'. It is the perfect marriage of a performance golf shoe with a performance cleat," states Tom Elwell CEO of Etonic. "We wanted traction and a CHAMP spike undoubtedly provides the best in traction. The bonus of the comfort element was a homerun for us knowing the Difference is launching to give golfers just that. This is a win-win relationship and we certainly are looking forward to watching golfers globally gravitate to the Difference."
"CHAMP is proud to have the new Zarma Spike chosen for the Difference. The Zarma Spike will compliment the PowerUp Technology Outsole System increasing traction but will also give golfers comfort no other spike can duplicate," states Harris MacNeill, President and CEO of CHAMP / MacNeill Engineering. "CHAMP has worked with Etonic for a number of years on traction technology options and our past experience with Etonic assures us that our Zarma Spike is in a product of quality and supreme craftsmanship."
For more information regarding all of the CHAMP products, visit www.champspikes.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
CHAMP is proud to partner with Etonic on the launch of the Difference golf shoe. For the golfers who buy the Difference, included on the inside of the shoe are properties to reduce heat as well as added cushioning for comfort. When it comes to the outsole Etonic has chosen to accompany their PowerUp Technology Outsole System, with the CHAMP Zarma spikes. CHAMP Zarma is the latest offering by CHAMP and has quickly become known as the 'comfort cleat' by those who wear it.
CHAMP Zarma was launched less than a year ago and already has success on the professional golf tours. Features of CHAMP Zarma include a traction element constructed of durable abrasion resistant urethane, a comfort element of soft resilient shock absorbing material attached to a rigid base element, which incorporates the fastener. As in all of the CHAMP spikes, CHAMP Zarma has a wear indicator to let golfers know when it is an appropriate time to change out their spikes.
"Etonic was looking for a spike that would complete our new shoe and the CHAMP Zarma certainly did make a 'difference'. It is the perfect marriage of a performance golf shoe with a performance cleat," states Tom Elwell CEO of Etonic. "We wanted traction and a CHAMP spike undoubtedly provides the best in traction. The bonus of the comfort element was a homerun for us knowing the Difference is launching to give golfers just that. This is a win-win relationship and we certainly are looking forward to watching golfers globally gravitate to the Difference."
"CHAMP is proud to have the new Zarma Spike chosen for the Difference. The Zarma Spike will compliment the PowerUp Technology Outsole System increasing traction but will also give golfers comfort no other spike can duplicate," states Harris MacNeill, President and CEO of CHAMP / MacNeill Engineering. "CHAMP has worked with Etonic for a number of years on traction technology options and our past experience with Etonic assures us that our Zarma Spike is in a product of quality and supreme craftsmanship."
For more information regarding all of the CHAMP products, visit www.champspikes.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Sundog Eyewear salutes Hunter Mahan
Sundog Eyewear congratulates Hunter Mahan on his fine Tour Championship and 2011 season
(Atlanta, Ga.) - Sundog Eyewear congratulates Hunter Mahan on his brilliant play in the PGA Tour’s dramatic FedEx Cup finale, the Tour Championship, and his fine 2011 season.
With rounds of 67, 68, 66, and 71 at East Lake in Atlanta, Mahan finished at eight under par and tied with Bill Haas. Following a brilliant recovery shot from the water hazard, Haas eventually won the playoff on the third hole.
Mahan, wearing his distinctive Matte White H EVO Sundog Eyewear sunglasses, one of the most recognizable combinations in sport, finished seventh in the FedEx Cup standings. At the completion of the Tour Championship, Mahan stood at 15th on the Tour Money List and fourth in the Tour All-Around category measuring performance in every aspects of the game in the 2011 season.
The three-time PGA Tour winner’s 2011 Sundog Eyewear H EVO Series continues the evolution of golf eyewear with cutting-edge style and uncompromising Mela-Lens performance and protection.
“I consider my Sundog Signature Series H EVO Mela-Lens sunglasses a very important part of my equipment,” said Mahan. “While many golfers put their sunglasses on their hat when they putt, I count on my Sundog Eyewear to help me under all conditions.”
The H EVO frame selection includes Root Beer Fade, Matte Black, Metallic Silver, and Shiny White to combine with four Mela-Lens colors.
Like his Signature Series H sunglasses, the H EVO models feature Sundog Eyewear’s breakthrough Mela-Lens technology. “Mela” is short for Melanin, a naturally produced pigment that acts as a sunscreen protecting the skin from ultraviolet light. In partnership with BNL Sun Lenses, an Essilor company, Sundog Eyewear has created the Sundog Mela-Lens lines utilizing synthetic melanin to produce state-of-the-art melanin lens technology. Mela-Lens absorbs light seamlessly over a broad spectral range providing 98 per cent blue light filtration and 100 per cent UVA/B protection. Mela-Lens features BNL Sun Lenses Eternity Hard Coat for superior abrasion resistance.
H EVO and Hunter Mahan’s Signature H Series are just part of the 2011 Sundog Eyewear line that includes all new models in the Paula Creamer Collection, Mike Weir’s Weir Golf Signature Series, Mela-Lens Polarized, Mela-Lens Photochromic models, and the complete Core Golf line.
Sundog Eyewear salutes Hunter Mahan’s Genuine Performance and wishes him the best of luck at the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne in November.
To view Sundog Eyewear 2011 visit www.sundogeyewear.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Whistling Rock Country Club Opens Outside of Seoul
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| Photo: Joann Dost |
Ted Robinson, Jr. Design Debuts in Stunning Natural Setting
(Chuncheon, South Korea) – One of the most dramatic golf courses to emerge in many years, Whistling Rock Country Club, opened Sept. 26 in Chuncheon, 50 minutes east of Seoul.
The club showcases 27 holes of world-class golf by renowned international golf architect Ted Robinson, Jr. The routing at Whistling Rock follows strategic elevation changes in mountain hillsides. Respecting the natural elements of the diverse landforms, Robinson has integrated 15 lakes into this design. These lakes are connected by numerous streams and several cascading waterfalls that not only enhance shot values, but define Whistling Rock’s striking aesthetics.
A creative combination of choices and challenges, Whistling Rock is a genuine golf adventure that poses enticing risk/reward scenarios throughout each nine for players at all ability levels.
“If you are playing the golf course from the back tees, it has every challenge you can possibly think of,” Robinson says. “It will test your skills. But it is also straightforward, with sets of tees for every player to have an opportunity to succeed on a golf course that is fun to play.”
An upscale, private country club, Whistling Rock has three nine-hole loops, each possessing its own distinctive traits, maintaining a strategic and artistic rhythm regardless of the order in which they are played. The loops are named Cocoon, Temple and Cloud for the three signature tea houses that grace the golf course. Each nine plays to par 36, with complementing yardages – Cocoon measuring a maximum of 3,571 yards, with Temple at 3,654 and Cloud at 3,646.
Integral to the design is Robinson’s capacity to vary the degree of challenge from hole to hole.
On the Cocoon nine, the demanding, uphill third hole (474 yards, par 4) is followed by a sharp dogleg (359 yards, par 4), where the green is reachable from the tee with a bold carry across bedrock-lined water. And while the green at the par-3 eighth hole is nearly encircled by sand, the fairway on the par-4 ninth is wide open.
On the Temple nine, the par-3 8th requires maximum distance (256 yards) and accuracy, but the 9th is a 376-yard par 4 that rewards a safe, short play off the tee. The 9th features one of the most identifiable points on the golf course – a suspension bridge that connects the fairway and green, stretching across a natural bedrock canyon high above the water below.
The Cloud nine revolves around a five-hole stretch called “The Glen,” a segment that represents so much of what makes Whistling Rock special: steep rock faces, elevated tees, cascading waterfalls, lakeside greens and dense forest throughout.
Whistling Rock has been developed by Donglim Resort Development Co., LTD., a subsidiary of Taekwang Group, a leading South Korean conglomerate with holdings in textiles, chemical, industry, cable television and financial services (insurance).
A spectacular clubhouse, designed by Francine Houben of Macanoo Architects (Delft, The Netherlands) is the anchor of club and has been inspired by beautiful mountain scenery. The building sits at the junction between the existing mountain ridge and the cultivated landscape of the golf course. Formally in contrast with its lush, undulating surroundings, the rectilinear clubhouse appears as a beacon from across the golf course. The building concept consists of two strong Travertine stone slabs floating above the surrounding landscape. Internal and external patios cross the stone slabs to create a diversity of outdoor spaces and art gardens.
The tea houses at Whistling Rock created as sculptural objects that vary from one another and serving as visual icons within the landscape, offer players a unique moment of relaxation during the round. Each tea house takes its cue from the natural surroundings and carries the theme of each nine.
Landscape architects Ken Alperstein and David Fisher of Pinnacle Design (Palm Desert, California) worked closely with Robinson, Houben and other consultants to create a customized plant palette and oversee construction details to meet the project’s specific requirements.
Pinnacle artfully blended the natural surroundings of the project site with the shaping of the golf course and positioning of the clubhouse. The planting of thousands of native trees, including, Japanese Red Pine, Korean Pine, native dogwood, oak and cherry, has reinvigorated the property. These species – mostly transplants from original growth on site – were grouped and placed in groves to maximize their influence on the natural appearance of the golf course.
The mountainous resort area of Chuncheon sits in a basin flanked by lakes and rivers. The town and its environs, a popular vacation and festival destination, is surrounded by Lake Uiam to the west, Chuncheon Lake to the north and, further east, massive Soyang Lake.
Membership to the country club is by invitation only.
For additional information, visit the Web site at www.whistlingrockresort.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Monday, September 26, 2011
Bridgestone Golf Introduces Limited Edition Pink B330-RX in Honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
(COVINGTON, Ga.) — Bridgestone Golf, the No. 1 Ball-Fitter in Golf, announced plans today to raise support for breast cancer research and awareness, during the month of October. The company will offer golfers a new limited edition version of one its most popular balls, the TOUR B330-RX, finished with a pink pearlescent cover in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Adding to the company’s popular white and yellow B330-RX balls, Bridgestone will release a limited quantity of several thousand Pink TOUR B330-RX (Pink B330-RX) balls next month. With every dozen that is purchased, Bridgestone Golf will contribute a portion to a national breast cancer awareness effort to aid in the fight against breast cancer. To supplement the contribution, Bridgestone will also allocate a portion of proceeds from the sale of its Precept Pink Lady iQ+ golf ball during October. In total, Bridgestone Golf expects the combined initiative to net nearly $20,000 for breast cancer awareness and research.
“Breast cancer awareness is a cause that many here in our Bridgestone family hold close totheir hearts, as the disease has impacted all of us in some way at one time or another,” said Bridgestone Golf’s Director of Marketing - Brandon Sowell. “We are excited to have the opportunity to use this limited edition Pink B330-RX to help raise awareness and funding in support of finding a cure.”
Perhaps the most iconic user of the pink ball is Bridgestone ambassador Paula Creamer, whose championship performance on the LPGA TOUR has increased the popularity of pink balls, especially the Pink Bridgestone B330-RX she uses during the final round of most tournaments. Like the white and yellow versions of the B330-RX, the limited edition Pink B330-RX boasts a soft core and mantle that reduces excess spin (the most common challenge for amateur golfers), resulting in straighter, more precise shots. The core combined with B330-RX’s Ionomer Inner Cover provides an increase in velocity and reduction in sidespin with the driver and long irons.
In addition to the unparalleled distance performance, the new Pink B330-RX also offers the seamless 330 dimple-design urethane cover that ensures Tour caliber greenside spin and control, with aconsistent trajectory players can count on, all while providing utmost visibility throughout the round.
The limited edition Pink B330-RX balls will be available Oct. 1 at golf specialty stores and select green grass retailers nationwide. The balls will feature a street price of $42.99 per dozen (MSRP- $56.00 per dozen). For more information on the new Pink B330-RX balls and the entire Bridgestone line visit www.bridgestonegolf.com.
Pocono Mountains Golf News and Notes: Great Fall Specials, Spectacular Beauty Beckon Golfers to the Poconos
(POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA) – The only thing better than golf in the Pocono Mountains is fall golf in the Pocono Mountains. While the season is winding down in the Northeast, the area’s brilliant foliage and unbeatable rates make autumn the best time of year to tee it up.
Autumn’s spectacular hues have begun to spread across tree canopies in the Pocono Mountains’ three distinct color zones. The peak colors in each zone are projected to be Oct. 8 (Northern), Oct. 12 (Southern) and Oct. 15 (Central). Below please find just a few of the many value-laden vacation deals and activities available this fall, available at www.800poconos.com.
The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, $108: There is still great golf to be played during this centennial year of the resort – which hosted the 1938 PGA Championship. Through Nov. 20, enjoy Shawnee’s Golf Package, which includes overnight accommodations, breakfast, cart and green fees on the 18-hole championship island course surrounded by vibrant foliage (pictured at left). Midweek rates start at $108 per person, per night. Visit shawneeinn.com to book.
Fall Fun near Shawnee: The Shawnee Autumn Timber Festival is Oct. 8-9. Shawnee is located in the lower section of the Delaware Water Gap, with hiking, biking and fishing available through fall.
Woodloch Springs Resort, $159: Tee off amid stunning fall scenery at the immaculately conditioned Country Club at Woodloch Springs, nationally recognized by Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine. The resort’s PMVB Special includes overnight accommodations, dinner, 18 holes of golf with cart, range balls, yardage book, 10% discount for additional meals and pro shop purchases, use of all resort activities and entertainment. Available seven days a week, excluding holidays, Oct. 11-31. Rates are $159 per person, per night, based on double occupancy and availability; includes tax and service fee. Call 800-453-8263 and mention code PMVB to book.
Fall Fun near Woodloch: Woodloch offers a Haunted Hayride through October, but the most thrilling adventure might be a turn on its new EagleEye Zipline through the mountains. In the northern regions of the Pocono Mountains, you’ll see fall color here first.
The Inn at Pocono Manor, $271: Fall is a great time to play the same 36 holes graced by LPGA and PGA Senior event participants, as well as legends such as Arnold Palmer, Sam Snead and Art Wall Jr. The Golf Fling Package – based on availability – includes unlimited play on 36 holes of classic golf, green fees, cart, beautifully renovated guest accommodations, a four-course dinner in the resort’s Mountain View Dining Room, and a hearty breakfast the next morning. Available Sunday through Thursday, through Oct. 31. Rates start at $135 per person, per night; $271 per person for a two-night stay. Ask for the Golf Fling Package to receive all benefits. Book at poconomanor.com.
Fall Fun Near Pocono Manor: See fall foliage at its best on horseback through the Pocono Manor Stables, which offers guided tours through the woods, over trout streams and past a captivating waterfall.
Fernwood Hotel and Resort, $50: This great family resort’s Bushkill Falls Autumn Hikers Package encourages guests to relax, unwind and hike through scenic Bushkill Falls or the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area against the backdrop of fall’s beautiful colors. The package – available seven days a week through November 27 – includes hotel accommodations and two tickets to Bushkill Falls. Play a round of golf, swim in the indoor pool, shop at The Crossings Premium Outlets or do nothing at all. Rates start at $49.50 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Reservations required. To book visit fernwoodhotel.com.
Fall Fun near Fernwood: The Ironman 70.3 series runs October 2 in the Pocono Mountains in the nearby Delaware Water Gap area. Cheer on your favorite athlete, or enjoy the fun Elvis Festival at Fernwood October 21-23.
See www.800poconos.com for a complete list of golf, accommodations, fall festivals and events listing through the four-county region in northeastern Pennsylvania, within easy driving distance of New York City, Philadelphia and New Jersey.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Autumn’s spectacular hues have begun to spread across tree canopies in the Pocono Mountains’ three distinct color zones. The peak colors in each zone are projected to be Oct. 8 (Northern), Oct. 12 (Southern) and Oct. 15 (Central). Below please find just a few of the many value-laden vacation deals and activities available this fall, available at www.800poconos.com.The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, $108: There is still great golf to be played during this centennial year of the resort – which hosted the 1938 PGA Championship. Through Nov. 20, enjoy Shawnee’s Golf Package, which includes overnight accommodations, breakfast, cart and green fees on the 18-hole championship island course surrounded by vibrant foliage (pictured at left). Midweek rates start at $108 per person, per night. Visit shawneeinn.com to book.
Fall Fun near Shawnee: The Shawnee Autumn Timber Festival is Oct. 8-9. Shawnee is located in the lower section of the Delaware Water Gap, with hiking, biking and fishing available through fall.
Woodloch Springs Resort, $159: Tee off amid stunning fall scenery at the immaculately conditioned Country Club at Woodloch Springs, nationally recognized by Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine. The resort’s PMVB Special includes overnight accommodations, dinner, 18 holes of golf with cart, range balls, yardage book, 10% discount for additional meals and pro shop purchases, use of all resort activities and entertainment. Available seven days a week, excluding holidays, Oct. 11-31. Rates are $159 per person, per night, based on double occupancy and availability; includes tax and service fee. Call 800-453-8263 and mention code PMVB to book.
Fall Fun near Woodloch: Woodloch offers a Haunted Hayride through October, but the most thrilling adventure might be a turn on its new EagleEye Zipline through the mountains. In the northern regions of the Pocono Mountains, you’ll see fall color here first.
The Inn at Pocono Manor, $271: Fall is a great time to play the same 36 holes graced by LPGA and PGA Senior event participants, as well as legends such as Arnold Palmer, Sam Snead and Art Wall Jr. The Golf Fling Package – based on availability – includes unlimited play on 36 holes of classic golf, green fees, cart, beautifully renovated guest accommodations, a four-course dinner in the resort’s Mountain View Dining Room, and a hearty breakfast the next morning. Available Sunday through Thursday, through Oct. 31. Rates start at $135 per person, per night; $271 per person for a two-night stay. Ask for the Golf Fling Package to receive all benefits. Book at poconomanor.com.
Fall Fun Near Pocono Manor: See fall foliage at its best on horseback through the Pocono Manor Stables, which offers guided tours through the woods, over trout streams and past a captivating waterfall.
Fernwood Hotel and Resort, $50: This great family resort’s Bushkill Falls Autumn Hikers Package encourages guests to relax, unwind and hike through scenic Bushkill Falls or the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area against the backdrop of fall’s beautiful colors. The package – available seven days a week through November 27 – includes hotel accommodations and two tickets to Bushkill Falls. Play a round of golf, swim in the indoor pool, shop at The Crossings Premium Outlets or do nothing at all. Rates start at $49.50 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Reservations required. To book visit fernwoodhotel.com.
Fall Fun near Fernwood: The Ironman 70.3 series runs October 2 in the Pocono Mountains in the nearby Delaware Water Gap area. Cheer on your favorite athlete, or enjoy the fun Elvis Festival at Fernwood October 21-23.
See www.800poconos.com for a complete list of golf, accommodations, fall festivals and events listing through the four-county region in northeastern Pennsylvania, within easy driving distance of New York City, Philadelphia and New Jersey.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Sweetgrass Opens Golf VIP Room, Announces Tournament Dates
(Harris, Michigan) – Sweetgrass Golf Club is delivering prime fall weather conditions, brilliant color and cool rates through October, for those looking for great golf escapes in Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.
Golf and gaming fans can enjoy a $95 per person stay-and-play rate for a round of golf midweek at Sweetgrass, named one of Michigan’s Top 20 public courses by Golfweek, including overnight stay at the award-winning Island Resort & Casino. All guests have direct access to the gaming floor and live entertainment daily.
See below for more news from Sweetgrass Golf Club and the Island Resort & Casino.
New Golf VIP Room Opens
The resort also recently opened its new VIP Golf Room, the latest addition to its new conference center wing. Golf groups can book the room for their own personal 19th hole, complete with beverage service and televisions to watch college and pro sports in Green Bay Packers, Michigan and Wisconsin fan country.
The room, which has comfortable living-room style seating for up to 20 people or 12 for a private dinner, has been a popular add-on for guys’ buddy trips, with direct access from the golf course and pro shop.
“We love that golfers can come to the U.P. and call the Island Resort Casino their home base,” said Tom McChesney, CEO of the Island Resort & Casino, which owns and operates Sweetgrass on the property. “You can enjoy the gaming, dining, and entertainment options at the resort with great golf at Sweetgrass and surrounding courses.”
Sweetgrass Announces 2012 Dates for Island Resort Championship
Sweetgrass will welcome the return of the LPGA Futures Tour on June 29-July 1, a full week after 2011’s inaugural Island Resort Championship was successfully run. The slight date change will accommodate growth in the LPGA Futures Tour with added summer tour stops, and complete the championship prior to the July 4th holiday weekend.
“We are thrilled to welcome back such exceptional professional golf talent to Sweetgrass,” said Championship Co-Chair Tony Mancilla. “We received overwhelming support from our golf community for this event, and can attribute part of Sweetgrass’ growing popularity in the golf industry to hosting this championship.”
Kathleen Ekey, who shared fourth-place honors at the Island Resort Championship this year, took top honors on the LPGA Futures Tour money list, and has received an automatic exemption into the LPGA Tour in 2012.
Volunteers are currently being sought for the 2012 championship through the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, the presenting sponsor of the championship.
Perfect 4-Some Package Experiences Record Growth for Third Straight Year
Sweetgrass has also teamed with neighboring Greywalls and TimberStone golf courses for the exclusive Perfect 4-Some golf vacation package, which offers a round of golf on each course with a two-night stay at the Island Resort & Casino, starting at $265 per person.
The package continues to be one of its most popular golf offerings at Sweetgrass and the resort, enjoying record sales yet again this year. The Perfect 4-Some golf courses are all Top 20-ranked among Golfweek’s Top 20 public layouts in Michigan, and give golfers a variety of playing experiences in parkland, mountain, and rugged terrain.
The news of another successful season and growth in rounds played at Sweetgrass Golf Club bucks the U.S. trend, which shows more than a three percent nationwide decline to date (National Golf Foundation).
For more information on Sweetgrass Golf Club or to book a stay before its season ends in early November, call 877-ISL-GREEN or see www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sea Pines Announces Pete Dye Harbour Town Enhancements Complete
Golf's 'Greatest Living Architect' Readies Storied Layout for PGA TOUR's RBC Heritage
(HILTON HEAD, S.C.) - The Sea Pines Resort announces Pete Dye has completed enhancements to Harbour Town Golf Links - the legendary golf course architect's iconic masterpiece and home to the PGA TOUR's RBC Heritage.
The layout was lengthened by 150 yards, a handful of trees were removed to improve sightlines and a select number of bunkers were reshaped or extended to bring hazards back into play. Both TOUR players and resort guests will savor the challenge as the iconic 18 continues to evolve as the epitome of strategic design.
"Pete Dye is a dear friend of Sea Pines' and his name and legacy are intrinsically tied to this resort. We are honored he returned to prepare Harbour Town for the next chapter in its colorful history," says Cary Corbitt, Director of Sports Division of Sea Pines Resort.
"Harbor Town made my career," says Pete Dye. Forty years ago Harbour Town opened to much fanfare and hosted a nascent PGA TOUR tournament -- the Heritage Classic. Arnold Palmer staged one of his patented final round charges for the inaugural victory and the Lowcountry "must visit" destination was launched. During an onsite evaluation in early 2011, Dye toured the course and charted a series of enhancements, insuring the layout would retain its lofty status and continual critical acclaim for years to come.
To complement Harbour Town, Sea Pines also recently tapped Dye to create Heron Point on the site once occupied by the Sea Marsh course. Rather than simply renovate Sea Marsh, Sea Pines elected to give Dye free rein to fashion an entirely new layout using the existing routing. The outcome was another timeless Dye-creation that has been lauded in national and regional golf publications including named as a "Top 50 Course for Women" by Golf Digest.
At 7,000 yards maximum, the dramatic 18 can play considerably shorter if needed via a sextet of tees on each hole, but length has little to do with the layout's overall strategic challenge. Golfers will face a sequence of risk-reward shots, fairways that slope devilishly towards hazards and Dye's signature mounding and swales framing target areas.
Says Corbitt, "With two Pete Dye classics - Harbour Town and Heron Point - we now offer as fine a 'one-two' golf combination as you'll find anywhere in the game."
Sea Pines also boasts the Ocean Course - the island's first and a George Cobb / Mark McCumber design with an emphasis on traditional principles of course architecture. For more information about the resort and its wide-variety of golf packages: www.seapines.com, 866.561.8802.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Victory Ranch Set To Host Utah-Arizona Shootout
Defending champions from State of Utah look to defend title in home state
(PARK CITY, Utah) - The Rees Jones-designed Victory Ranch Club in Park City, Utah is set to host the 21st Annual Utah - Arizona Shootout, September 26 and 27. The event features a team of Utah's top amateur players competing against a team of Arizona's top amateur players in a Ryder Cup style format.
'Team Utah' is the defending champion having won five of the last six individual matches. In 2010, the at-large contingent from Utah came from behind to claim a 38 ½ to 33 ½ win over the Arizona contingent. The 2010 win for Utah tied the highly competitive series at 10-10 and marked the sixth straight time that the visiting team has won.
"This premier event features the top amateur players from each state Association, competing in a very testing format," stated Steve Hupe, director of golf at Victory Ranch Club. "We are all looking forward to how each state's respective players rise up to the challenge at Victory Ranch," added Hupe.
For tee times or for more information on Victory Ranch Club call 435-785-5030 or visit www.victoryranchclub.com. You can also "Like" Victory Ranch on Facebook at www.facebook.com/victoryranchclub.
For more information on the Utah-Arizona Shootout or the Utah Golf Association, call
(801) 563-0400 or visit www.uga.org.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Friday, September 23, 2011
The 3-Degree Putting Solution
In The 3-Degree Putting Solution: The Comprehensive, Scientifically Proven Guide to Better Putting by Michael Breed with John Steinbreder (Gotham Book, October 2011, $26, Hardcover), Breed explains the technique that golfers like Dave Stockton, Billy Casper, Horton Smith and Bobby Locke have all used successfully, but instructors have been failing to teach for decades. Breed reintroduces the forgotten truth about negative loft with the hope of providing a better short game for amateurs and pros alike.
The 3-Degree Putting Solution gives golfers less backspin on the ball, which leads to a truer roll and more consistent speed - significantly shrinking the chance on error of each putt.
Breed also offers readers information on grip, posture, and alignment. He addresses matters of club path, face angle and tempo. He provides tips on the best putter for golfers of all levels, and includes practice drills and dozens of photographs and illustrations.
The 3-Degree Putting Solution will revolutionize the short game of today's golfers.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Saucon Valley Country Club Selected as Site of 2014 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship
(Far Hills, N.J.) - Saucon Valley Country Club, in Bethlehem, Pa., has been selected by the United States Golf Association as the site of the 2014 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship. The dates of the championship are Sept. 6-11.
Saucon Valley's Old and Weyhill Courses will be used for the 2014 championship, with Weyhill hosting the match-play portion of the competition.
Herbert Strong designed the Old Course, which opened in 1921. William and David Gordon designed the Weyhill Course, which opened in 1968. Both courses have recently undergone restorations overseen by Fazio Golf, the Old in 2008 and the Weyhill in 2011. Saucon Valley's historic facility boasts a third 18-hole layout, the Grace Course, as well as a six-hole practice course. The club is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
"Saucon Valley has been privileged to host six United States Golf Association championships," said Saucon Valley Country Club President Andrew Warner. "We are delighted to have been selected to host the 34th U.S. Mid-Amateur. Saucon Valley's relationship with the USGA dates back 60 years and has been mutually beneficial as our membership proudly offers its remarkable facility for the USGA to hold yet another exceptional national championship."
The 2014 Mid-Amateur Championship will be the seventh USGA championship to be hosted by the club and its sixth different championship. The 2009 U.S. Women's Open, won by Eun-Hee Ji with a birdie on the 72nd hole, was the most recent USGA championship at the club.
The 1951 U.S. Amateur (won by Billy Maxwell) was the first USGA championship at Saucon Valley, which is located in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley. The other national championships at the club were: 1983 U.S. Junior Amateur (won by Tim Straub); 1987 USGA Senior Amateur (won by John Richardson); and the 1992 and 2000 U.S. Senior Opens (won by Larry Laoretti and Hale Irwin, respectively).
The club has also hosted a number of Pennsylvania Golf Association and Golf Association of Philadelphia championships.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Forest Creek Golf Club Awarded 2013 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship
(SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.) – Forest Creek Golf Club near the Village of Pinehurst has been selected by the United States Golf Association to host the 2013 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship. The championship will be conducted Oct. 5-10.
The championship will be played on the North and South Courses, both of which were designed by Tom Fazio. The South Course opened in 1996, while the North Course was added in 2005.
“We are honored and grateful that the USGA has entrusted our golf club with the distinct honor of hosting one of its prestigious national championships,” said Forest Creek Golf Club President Terry Brown. “We proudly consider Forest Creek to be one of the country’s most outstanding communities to live in, and our golf club is committed to amateur golf with a vision of giving back to the game.
"We have two highly rated golf courses that I am confident will stand up to the high quality and challenges expected by the Mid-Amateur Committee as well as the players. We very much look forward to October 2013.”
This will mark the first USGA championship for Forest Creek, though the club has previously hosted sectional qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Girls’ Junior Championships. In October 2011, the club will host the 66th Captain’s Putter Team Match, a championship conducted by the Carolinas Golf Association that matches 16 male amateurs and eight senior male amateurs from Virginia and West Virginia against a team from North Carolina and South Carolina. In 2012, Forest Creek will host the CGA Senior Amateur Championship.
The club has also hosted the American Junior Golf Association’s 2011 Golf Pride Junior Classic, the 2010 U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and the CGA’s 2006 North Carolina Amateur (won by current Champions Tour player Mike Goodes).
The U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship is open to amateur golfers at least 25 years of age who hold a USGA Handicap Index no higher than 3.4. The 2012 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship will be played Sept. 8-13 at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Ill.
For more information on Forest Creek, visit www.ForestCreekGolfClub.com.
The championship will be played on the North and South Courses, both of which were designed by Tom Fazio. The South Course opened in 1996, while the North Course was added in 2005.
“We are honored and grateful that the USGA has entrusted our golf club with the distinct honor of hosting one of its prestigious national championships,” said Forest Creek Golf Club President Terry Brown. “We proudly consider Forest Creek to be one of the country’s most outstanding communities to live in, and our golf club is committed to amateur golf with a vision of giving back to the game.
"We have two highly rated golf courses that I am confident will stand up to the high quality and challenges expected by the Mid-Amateur Committee as well as the players. We very much look forward to October 2013.”
This will mark the first USGA championship for Forest Creek, though the club has previously hosted sectional qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Girls’ Junior Championships. In October 2011, the club will host the 66th Captain’s Putter Team Match, a championship conducted by the Carolinas Golf Association that matches 16 male amateurs and eight senior male amateurs from Virginia and West Virginia against a team from North Carolina and South Carolina. In 2012, Forest Creek will host the CGA Senior Amateur Championship.
The club has also hosted the American Junior Golf Association’s 2011 Golf Pride Junior Classic, the 2010 U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and the CGA’s 2006 North Carolina Amateur (won by current Champions Tour player Mike Goodes).
The U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship is open to amateur golfers at least 25 years of age who hold a USGA Handicap Index no higher than 3.4. The 2012 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship will be played Sept. 8-13 at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Ill.
For more information on Forest Creek, visit www.ForestCreekGolfClub.com.
adidas Golf Introduces adidas STREET Footwear
Justin Rose Debuts adidas STREET on the PGA Tour En Route to victory at the BMW Championship
(CARLSBAD, CA) - adidas Golf has introduced the spikeless adidas STREET footwear. adidas Golf Tour Staff professional Justin Rose debuted the new spikeless golf shoe en route to his wire-to-wire win at the BMW Championship last week.
adidas STREET combines iconic adidas styling with full-grain leather for a rich look and feel. The upper is both lightweight and durable, while the soft, spikeless outsole provides traction, comfort and off-course versatility. The spikeless sole gave Rose superior traction throughout the week, including in wet conditions during the final round when a steady rain fell throughout the back nine.
Rose switched to the adidas STREET last week after being given a prototype pair and was instantly hooked, as the innovative shoe has helped his footwork and allowed him to move freely with the extra flexion and torsion he needs. "I noticed an impressive improvement after wearing the adidas STREET shoe. The softer construction puts less stress on the body and I walk off the course feeling fresher," said Rose.
adidas STREET is designed to allow the foot more natural flexion and torsion while cushioning every step. The spikeless outsole delivers superior traction with 124 strategically placed traction lugs of varying size for a secure grip in all playing conditions, with textured synthetic toe-cap that's super durable and improved abrasion-resistance.
adidas Golf launched the Balance Nitro franchise in 2005 leading the Japan spikeless category. Later adids Golf continued innovations with the Traxion Lite series in the US and now the release of the adidas STREET. The adidas STREET is poised to solidify that leadership position when it launches nationally on Nov. 1.
"It's exciting to see the adidas STREET succeed so soon on tour, but not a surprise, since we've been making the best spikeless golf footwear for more than five years," said Kevin Ross, vice president of adidas Golf.
adidas STREET carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $90 in five colorways - white/white/black, black/black/white, cognac brown/tour white/gum, white/FP royal/FP royal, and white/FP lime/FP lime - to be released on Nov. 1.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Custom Clubfitting Leader Henry-Griffitts Adds PSP's 'The Little One' Training Club to Fitting Cart
(MAUMEE, OH) - Henry-Griffitts - the seminal force in custom clubfitting for 28 years and the originator of the clubfitting cart - is partnering with PSP (Pure Solid Perfect) Golf to add PSP's first game-improvement club, "The Little One," to H-G's signature fitting cart.
"We look forward to offering 'The Little One' on our fitting system," says Randall Henry, President of Henry-Griffitts. "It's a great training aid, and now our Henry-Griffitts Certified Teachers will be able to fit the product to that player's exact specs. It's a great combination."
Scottsdale, Ariz.-based PSP Golf was founded in 2007 by President/CEO Dan Bonomo, just another golfer frustrated with his apparent inability to make a simple golf swing. Knowing the importance of mastering a functional swing to enjoy golf, Bonomo used his baseball background and memories of the Thunder Stick batting training aid - a thin rod that promoted a grooved swing and solid contact - to develop a similar tool for golf, "The Little One," in 2000. Its head, which is just large enough for a golf ball, helps create a focus on a smaller impact area improving consistency and ball striking. Otherwise, "The Little One" has the length, loft and weight of a normal 7-iron.
"We are very honored to be partners with Henry-Griffitts Golf, which we consider the world's best golf-fitting company," Bonomo says. "This is an extraordinary opportunity for PSP Golf. Our visibility and acceptance among tour players and teaching pros has continued to grow, while consumers quickly understand 'The Little One' is a simple, effective tool that will make all their golf clubs perform at a higher level." www.pspgolf.net
Golf professionals and touring professionals marvel at how quickly "The Little One" gets players to focus on swing path and timing, leading to a smoother, more-consistent confident swing. Following a 15 to 30 ball warmup with "The Little One", players then transition back to their own clubs and find they swing a little slower, less tense, more controlled and are likely to add a half-club to their usual iron distances.
"You're in an unknown environment hitting this club, so you have no unrealistic expectations - you don't feel you should hit a ball solidly," says Touring Professional Gary Birch Jr. "But you do after time. You're essentially swinging the sweet spot, learning through feedback to improve your impact position. Training aids abound, but only a few help you coordinate the whole swing. "The Little One" does that, and amazingly well."
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Pinnacle announces debut of new flagship Gold golf ball models
(FAIRHAVEN, Mass.) - Pinnacle understands golfers' passion for the game and how important confidence is to playing well. While they want powerful distance, golfers also want a golf ball with great feel and short game control. A long-standing leader in the distance and value golf ball category, Pinnacle streamlines its previous four-model family into one performance target. Pinnacle Gold delivers powerful distance and soft feel along with exceptional quality and consistency, without breaking the bank. The new Pinnacle product line is offered in four options: Pinnacle Gold in Bright White and High Optix Yellow; and Pinnacle Gold Ribbon in Bright White and Clear Pearlescent Pink.
"The technology behind the New Pinnacle Gold delivers the best combination of powerful distance and soft feel," said Michael Mahoney, Director of Golf Ball Product Management, Acushnet Company. "Golfers looking for a simple choice do not have to trade-off distance for feel, as the new Gold golf ball is our best performing Pinnacle ever. The only choice a golfer needs to make is which color to play."
NEW PINNACLE GOLD AND GOLD RIBBON PERFORMANCE ADVANTAGE:
- Powerful distance for a bolder long game
- Soft feel for a sharper short game
- Exceptional quality and consistency
TECHNOLOGY FEATURES
- Large, high-velocity, soft compression core
- Soft, ionomer cover blend
- New 332 spherical icosahedral dimple design in seven different sizes
COLOR OPTIONS
- Pinnacle Gold is available in Bright White and a new High Optix Yellow designed to provide ultra-high visibility against the hues of blue and green
- Pinnacle Gold Ribbon is available in Bright White and Clear Pearlescent Pink
"Value is what you get for your money, not what you pay," said Mahoney. "Golfers can trust that every Pinnacle golf ball provides exceptional quality and value. We design and manufacture Pinnacle golf balls in our own world-class manufacturing facilities. Not only does Pinnacle offer pristine cosmetic quality, golfers can be assured of consistent performance from sleeve to sleeve and ball to ball."
PINNACLE CARES:
The Pinnacle brand cares and has aligned itself with two special causes. The Folds of Honor Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and other assistance to the dependents of families of fallen and disabled service members. The Susan G. Komen Foundation is dedicated to the fight against breast cancer through awareness and funding research towards a cure. In addition to making significant financial contributions, Pinnacle features the Folds of Honor logo on the Pinnacle Gold packaging and the Komen for the Cure icon on the Pinnacle Gold Ribbon packaging. The Komen pink ribbon logo is also stamped on the Gold Ribbon golf ball.
PRICE AND PROMOTION:
The new Pinnacle Gold and Pinnacle Gold Ribbon golf balls begin shipping Oct. 1 with an MSRP of $20 per 15-ball pack ($15.99 MAP). The Pinnacle Gold product will also be available in a 24-ball pack configuration with an MSRP of $30 ($24.99 MAP). Comprehensive merchandising initiatives will accompany the launch of the new Pinnacle Gold, including common messaging on the back of the packaging that conveys the performance benefits to the golfer, in-shop collateral, and widespread on-line promotion.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Salish Cliffs Golf Club Unveils Course During Grand Opening Weekend
TOUR Star Fred Couples Helps Introduce Long-Anticipated,
Much-Ballyhooed Amenity of Little Creek Casino Resort
(SHELTON, WA) – Salish Cliffs Golf Club at Little Creek Casino Resort celebrated in style its long-awaited Grand Opening Weekend, Sept. 16-18, with nearly 220 golfers teeing it up at the spectacular new course on Friday and Sunday, and PGA TOUR star Fred Couples wowing participants on Saturday.
“Salish Cliffs is an outstanding course,” said Couples, the 1992 Masters champion and a native of the Seattle area. “It has well-designed holes that are unique and interesting and will challenge players of all different abilities. I encourage golfers to try Salish Cliffs. I believe they’ll be impressed.”
Golfers took full advantage of the course debut, nearly selling out the tee sheet. In addition to the superb golf layout and immaculate course conditions, participants enjoyed live jazz and a salmon and wine tasting at the Native American Indian-inspired log clubhouse, which features a full-service restaurant and golf shop as well as a wrap-around porch and mezzanine overlooking hole Nos. 9 and 18.
After conducting a clinic on the Salish Cliffs practice range and a Q&A inside the clubhouse, Couples – the captain of this year’s U.S. Presidents Cup team – was stationed on the tee of the 411-yard 15th hole during Saturday’s event where he met and greeted every golfer during the shotgun format. Couples hit a shot with each group, signed countless autographs and took pictures with the participants before, during and after the day’s festivities.
Couples – whose father worked in the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department and introduced his son to the game – is making his second stint as captain of the U.S. Presidents Cup team, which will travel to Melbourne, Australia to play the International squad, Nov. 14-20, at Royal Melbourne Golf Club.
“It was fantastic to have Fred Couples help us open our beautiful new golf course to the public,” said Head Professional David Kass, PGA. “Fred enjoyed himself and was wonderful with the participants in Saturday’s event. It’s easy to see why he is arguably the most popular golfer in the world.”
Located 20 minutes from Olympia and 75 from Seattle, Salish Cliffs is an amenity of the award-winning Little Creek Casino Resort, owned and operated by the Squaxin Island Tribe. Designed by renowned architect Gene Bates, the course is the latest high-quality amenity offered by the resort, a destination leader in the region, offering upscale lodging, top entertainment acts, museum-like atriums with priceless, authentic Indian artwork, and much more.
Public rates through September are $89 for 18 holes and $50 for nine, including green fees and cart (but not applicable tax). MVP Player’s Card Holders will pay $84. The newest-model Titleist rental clubs will be available for $50 (18 holes) and $30 (nine holes).
Tee times can be booked with a major credit card up to 10 days in advance at www.salish-cliffs.com. Advanced tee-time booking up to 60 days in advance is available for those with confirmed Little Creek Casino Resort hotel reservations by calling the golf shop at 360.462.3673.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Nike Golf Adds a New Face of Confidence to its Method Core Putter Line
The Nike Method Core Drone already has Tour-proven success
(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – With more than 25 worldwide wins, including three major championships and counting, the Nike Method technology has become the new face of confidence in putting. The latest addition to the Nike Method putter franchise is the distinctive Method Core Drone, which already has tasted Tour success three months prior to it becoming available.
Nike athlete Suzann Pettersen already has won twice with the Method Core Drone, once on the Ladies European Tour at the Ladies Irish Open, and again on the LPGA Tour at the Safeway Classic. After her first victory with it in Ireland, she was so thrilled that she tweeted about it with an accompanying photo saying: “My new best friend from Nike. The Drone!”
Available Nov. 1, the Nike Method Core Drone features the Nike major-winning Polymetal groove technology in a high-Moment of Inertia package. With its iconic larger mallet shape and milled face, the Nike Method Core Drone is loaded with geometry. Its extreme mallet design and Opti-mass weighting in the center and wing tips keep the clubhead on its path, preventing twisting and creating a smooth, accurate stroke. The high-MOI putter enables more stability, which provides a better roll and ultimately leads to increased confidence over every putt.
The Nike Method Core Drone also has the distinctive Polymetal Groove Technology that exists in all Nike Method putters, generating a faster forward roll at impact for increased accuracy. The polymer and aluminum grooves lessen impact vibrations and provides pure sound and feel. This helps eliminate backspin, which causes skidding and misdirection. This revolutionary and visibly distinctive red insert decreases backspin, which was expressed by Nike Golf athletes as an important ingredient to their putting accuracy, distance control and ultimate putting success. The less backspin, the more “true” the putt will roll.
The Method Core Drone also comes in a belly putter length and is one of six models in the Nike Method Core line.
Availability: 11/1/11
MSRP: $203.99 $227.99 Belly Putter (41”)
RH/LH: 33”, 34”, 35”
RH: 41”
Adams Golf Takes the Next Step in Hybrid Technology with Introduction of Idea a12 OS Hybrid Irons and Idea a12 Hybrids
(PLANO, TEXAS) - Adams Golf, the category leader in hybrid iron technology, introduced the best-performing and easiest-to-hit hybrid iron set ever - the Idea a12 OS Irons. The a12 OS Irons feature deep undercut cavity-back irons, redesigned Transitional Hybrids (patented) as well as hybrids utilizing Velocity Slot Technology for the first time. These clubs will be available at select retailers beginning early October.
The newest generation of the Idea family, the Idea a12 OS hybrid irons are built with ultra thin faces, perimeter weighting and low CG's throughout the set. For the first time in a hybrid club, the Idea a12 OS hybrid utilizes Velocity Slot Technology to produce a spring-like effect across the entire face, which improves forgiveness and increases launch angle without increasing spin; this combined with the ultra thin face produces higher ball speeds increasing distance. The Idea a12 OS set also includes redesigned Transitional Hybrids with a "Truss Back" design allowing more weight to be distributed to the perimeter of the club lowering the center of gravity making them optimally suited for bridging the gap between the hybrids and the deep undercut cavity-back irons of the set.
"Engineers have long been trying to increase launch angle and ball speed without increasing spin rate with little success," said Michael Vrska, Director of Product Development at Adams Golf. "However, the spring-like effect produced across the entire face by the Velocity Slot Technology does just that, giving golfers increased distance, optimized launch and improved forgiveness."
The standard men's and senior sets are composed of three hybrids (4, 5, 6) featuring Velocity Slot Technology, two patented Transitional Hybrids (7, 8) with the "truss back" design, and three deep undercut cavity-back irons (9, PW, GW). The set utilizes Grafalloy Pro Launch Blue graphite shafts or True Temper Performance steel shafts and Adams Tour Elite grips produced by Lamkin. The Idea a12 OS set will have an MSRP $699.99 with steel shafts and $799.99 with graphite shafts and will be available in both right and left handed. The set can be tailored to a specific player's needs by adding additional hybrids (2, 3, 7), transitional hybrids (5, 6), or irons (SW, LW) through custom order.
Adams Golf also developed the Idea a12 OS Irons for women. While utilizing the same technologies found in the men's sets, the Women's Idea a12 OS Irons were built with dedicated tooling and modified specs to make them better performing for women golfers. The standard women's set is composed of three hybrids (4, 5, 6), two patented Transitional Hybrids (7, 8), and three cavity-back irons (9, PW, SW). The women's set has a sandstone finish and utilizes a matching Idea Ultra-Lite High Launch graphite shaft. The Women's Idea a12 OS will have an MSRP of $799.99. The women's set can also be tailored to a specific golfer's needs by adding additional hybrids (3, 7) or cavity-back irons (GW, LW).
Idea a12 Hybrid
Building on the tour-proven design that has made Adams Golf's Idea Hybrids the No. 1 hybrid on the PGA, Nationwide and Champions Tours, the new Idea a12 hybrid feature the patent-pending Velocity Slot Technology which creates a spring-like effect across the entire face of the club to increase forgiveness and improve launch conditions. The Idea a12 Hybrid produces a higher launch and more ball speed than the Idea a7 Hybrid while not increasing spin thus increasing distance. The Idea a12 Hybrid will be available in four lofts - 17° 2 hybrid, 19° 3 hybrid, 22° 4 hybrid and 25° 5 hybrid. In conjunction with UST Mamiya, Adams Golf with be co-launching the ProForce VTS Silver hybrid shaft in A, R, S and X flexes in the Idea a12 Hybrid. The Idea a12 Hybrids will have an MSRP of $269.99.
Adams Golf, the producer of the No. 1 Hybrid on Tour, is driven to produce innovative products to allow golfers of all skill levels enjoy the game of golf. Adams Golf produces and sells golf equipment under the Adams Golf, Tight Lies and Yes! Putters brands. For more information, visit www.adamsgolf.com or shop.adamsgolf.com.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Daphne's Headcovers Creates Headcover for Founding Dog
Jane Spicer, president of Daphne's is particularly excited about the release of their newest design, a Weimaraner Headcover.
"We created this headcover in honor of Gabriel, the founding dog of Gabriel's Angels a Phoenix based charity that uses therapy dogs to deliver healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children, nurturing their ability to love and trust, thereby freeing them from the cycle of violence. For me, this went from a new design to a labor of love as every piece fell into place perfectly," commented Spicer. "It seemed that a door opened with every step of the design, from finding an elusive Weimaraner grey nose, to getting an LPGA pro to carry it on her bag. Donating a portion of the proceeds to Gabriel's Angels good work is just the icing on the cake."
Pam Gaber, CEO of Gabriel's Angels said, "We are thrilled to be partnering with Daphne's Headcovers in the launch of the Gabriel headcover. When Jane Spicer approached me with her idea of honoring our Founding Dog Gabriel, I knew it was the perfect way to honor his legacy. From the beginning Jane insisted part of the proceeds go to Gabriel's Angels pet therapy program for at-risk youth."
The Weimaraner "Gabriel" headcover began shipping to golf shops today from Phoenix, Az.
Each of the company's headcovers exhibits the Daphne's Difference. From conception to completion, each and every headcover is created with an eye on quality, function, form and attention to minute detail.
"Our company reputation is based on 31 years of providing quality through custom designs and attention to the smallest details," said Spicer. "All of our 200-plus headcover designs bear our factory phone number. We are so convinced of our quality that should anything ever go wrong with one of our products, we will fix or replace it at our expense.
For more information on Daphne's Headcovers, call 800-327-4632 or visit www.daphnesheadcovers.com. Follow Daphne's on Facebook HERE.
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com
Monday, September 19, 2011
Justin Rose Wins BMW Championship Playing R11 Driver, Corza Ghost Putter and Wearing New adidas Golf STREET Footwear
Victory Moves Rose to No. 3 in FedEx Cup Standings Heading into Season-Ending TOUR Championship
(Carlsbad, Calif.) – TaylorMade-adidas Golf Tour Staff professional Justin Rose shook off inclement weather and numerous charging competitors Sunday at Cog Hill to win the BMW Championship.
Debuting a new adidas Golf shoe and gaming the R11 driver and Corza Ghost putter, Rose missed only two putts inside of 10 feet throughout the week to win the FedEx Cup’s third playoff event. As NBC Sports golf analyst Johnny Miller noted during the back nine on Sunday, “That white putter; if he wins, it’s going to be because of what he did inside ten feet." Rose has used the Corza Ghost in all of his three PGA Tour wins.
Also, Rose debuted the new STREET footwear from adidas Golf at the BMW Championship. STREET footwear offers the movement and comfort of a running shoe and boasts the support and traction that athletes expect from adidas Golf. The spike-less shoe launches in-store on Nov. 1 (in the Sunbelt region of the U.S.) and Feb. 1, 2012 for the rest of the world.
The win elevates Rose to No. 3 in the FedEx Cup Playoffs, which conclude in Atlanta next week with the TOUR Championship. TaylorMade drivers have now been used in 40 victories worldwide this year; more than any other brand.
What’s in Justin’s Bag:
R11 driver 8
R9 fairway 13
R11 fairway 17
Tour Preferred MB irons (3-PW)
TP xFT ZTP wedges (54)
Corza Ghost putter
Penta TP golf ball #99
adidas golf apparel
STREET footwear from adidas Golf
Notable
* The win represents the eighth R11 driver win on the PGA Tour
* Third career PGA Tour win for Justin Rose – all won with a Corza Ghost putter
* Runner-up finisher John Senden played an R11 driver
* Five of the Top-10 in the 2011 FedEx Cup points standings are TaylorMade-adidas Golf Tour athletes (Rose, Dustin Johnson, Senden, Chez Reavie, Jason Day)
Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com