GolfTEC’s $99 Swing Evaluation is a Small Price to Pay for Long-Lasting Improvement

Are you willing to invest less than $100 to play better golf ... and not just for a few weeks, but for a lifetime?

(Centennial, Colorado) - Throughout the month of April, GolfTEC—the world leader in golf improvement—is giving everyone a nearly 50% break on a personalized, and computerized, evaluation of their swings. For just $99, golfers of every age, gender, and skill level can take the first step on the path to a better golf swing and a better game.

“The swing evaluation is the first thing we do with every new student,” explains Mike Clinton, COO and co-founder of GolfTEC, which operates more than 150 improvement centers, staffed with more than 500 full-time, certified coaches, in the U.S. and Canada. “It’s the road map that helps both the student and the coach understand the swing flaws—major and minor—that have to be corrected, and the beginning of the plan to fix those flaws for good.”

In Spring—with warm weather and The Masters in the air—people have golf on their minds, making it the perfect time to visit GolfTEC, which has a 95% success rate from its students. The swing evaluation makes sense for good players who want to hone their games or new golfers who want to start playing for the first time.

“Our $99 evaluation deal is great for everyone as they get started with lessons,” Clinton says, adding that it usually costs between $165 and $195, depending on location. “It’s great for the low-handicap golfer who wants to win a club championship or the businesswoman who has never played before but wants to play for work. It’s great for seniors, women, even juniors. Everyone.”

The one-hour evaluation is conducted by one of GolfTEC’s certified coaches, who give, on average, more than 1,400 lessons a year (10 times the national average for teaching professionals). With the help of the company’s proprietary g-SWING system, which combines video and computerized measurement of key body movements, coaches identify areas for improvement in every part of the swing, from set-up to follow-through.

“We get into the nitty-gritty, the problems that lead to major flaws,” says Clinton. “That first hour will include a little bit of instruction so you see how we teach and how the GolfTEC system works. But the real goal is to provide a picture of what’s wrong with your swing and what needs to be improved. Then the coach puts together a personal game plan for your improvement.

“If you’ve ever thought about golf lessons, or ever wondered what’s really going on with your swing, this is your chance to find out. It’s a great experience, a great hour, and a steal at $99.”

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Martin Golf Apparel Readies Fall 2012 Collections

(Dallas, TX) - Golf industry icon Rick Martin, who returned to the business with his new company, Martin Golf Apparel, in 2011, is excited to announce Martin Golf Apparel's new Fall 2012 collections.

In keeping with Martin's longtime philosophy of creating apparel that's both traditional and timeless, the Fall 2012 Martin Golf Apparel collections will continue the company's focus on not only natural fibers, but what Martin calls "natural colors" as well. "The Martin Golf Apparel color palette is something I've developed over a lifetime of experience in the apparel business," says Martin, "and I'm proud that focus on traditional colors, as opposed to trendy ones, is among the things I'm known for."

For Martin, too much modern golf apparel has strayed from the traditional path to which he adheres. "I remember watching last year's U.S. Open, looking at the tour players competing for the win, and being struck by the contrived look of their outfits," recalls Martin. "The outfits had such a 'costume' feel, and also a stifling uniformity. Each piece was clearly designed to be worn only with pieces from the same collection. It's great for TV but not my foursome."

"My idea of golf fashion is rooted in watching legends like Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan - gentlemen who always looked well put together, but never contrived. To that end, my goal is to create elegant, stylish but versatile garments that are related, but can be worn with anything. This, in addition to my commitment to using only natural fibers - no synthetics, no pieced-together garments - is one of the cornerstones of what Martin Golf Apparel is all about."

Martin Golf Apparel's Fall 2012 collections embody the philosophy that led Martin to launch the company. The Essentials Collection makes use of the company's entire color palette, bringing to the golf apparel marketplace a variety of knits and sweaters that truly live up to the Martin Golf Apparel philosophy, "as Timeless as the Game." The Timeless Elements Collection offers items in a more specialized, yet still broad, range of colors.

The three remaining Fall 2012 collections are perfect illustrations of Martin Golf Apparel's ability and commitment to blend timelessness and tradition. The British Regimental Collection, for example, employs a color palette inspired by vintage British military uniforms, backed up by and blended with distinctive clarifying colors and used in the service of modern yet timeless golf apparel. In keeping with Martin's commitment to ensuring that no garment in the Fall 2012 line is restricted to its own collection, Martin takes special pride in the way pieces from the British Regimental collection can be paired with those of the Charcoal Classics Collection. This collection features many of the same colors as the British Regimental line, but highlights them with Light and Dark Charcoal shades to create the sort of bold yet natural contrast that is a hallmark of Martin Golf Apparel. Finally, the Vineyard Collection specializes in what Martin calls "earthy" tones.

To ensure that Martin Golf Apparel reaches a select customer base of discerning golfers, these collections - like all Martin Golf Apparel - is sold exclusively at golf clubs. "To be honest," says Martin, "I don't pay much attention to the competition in the marketplace, because I believe Martin Golf Apparel is in a very specific niche all its own. With our commitment to tradition, all-natural fibers and colors, and selling exclusively in just the finest private golf clubs, we're ensuring that our customers can benefit from the latest results of our ongoing quest for perfection - results that truly live up to the standards of my product design that being 'as Timeless As The Game'."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Golf’s Tour Performance Apparel Line Amplifies Excellence

The Spring 2012 Tour Performance collection marries style with visible technology to provide every advantage in every condition

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) - With the relentless pursuit of performance and innovation, Nike Golf maintains the standard of excellence with the introduction of its Tour Performance line for men and women.  A balance of industry-best basic styles and seasonally driven innovations, this line serves as the locker room for the competitive golfer.

Nike Golf’s Tour Performance apparel embodies Nike’s iconic and instantly recognizable performance innovation.  Focusing on moisture management, cooling, and stretch technologies, this line provides exceptional Lightweight Performance for golf athletes.

With a distinct attitude, Nike’s Tour Performance pieces meet consumer insights through relevant product styling and attributes. The line delivers every advantage in every condition through expanded style choices to match outfits to occasions.

“This line is seriously full of athlete-driven innovation and visible technology– just what Nike is all about,” said Doug Reed, Nike Golf’s Global Category Business Director for Apparel and Footwear. “It’s performance, amplified.”

The new Tour Performance line brings on the heat with Nike energy colors and core Tour block fit.  Branding also remains classic Nike Golf with a small Swoosh on the left sleeve as well as on the back.  The expanded menu of style choices extends Nike Golf’s dominant leadership position as #1 in class innovation and performance.

Highlights from the Nike Tour Performance line are the men’s Fractured Chest Stripe polo (MSRP $70) and the Modern Color Block polo (MSRP $60).  These men’s polos are constructed of Nike Dri-FIT which includes UV protection and added stretch to ease the golf swing.  The Plaid Pant (MSRP $85) and Fashion Plaid Short (MSRP $70) are constructed of Nike Dri-FIT allowing the athlete to not only look good on the course but also feel good in performance fabrics.

For women, the Color Wrap polo (MSRP $70) and the Convertible Skort (MSRP $95) provide women a comfortable, chic and practical outfit for the course.  The Convertible Skort (patent pending) is reversible from a plaid to a solid and comes with a twill short to provide women with three looks in one.

The Nike Tour Performance Apparel line also features the Tiger Woods Collection, representing the “performance modifier” to its core Tour Performance business.  If Nike’s Tour Performance is the “game day” uniform, the Tiger Woods Collection will serve as the “Bowl Day” point of view.

The Tiger Woods Collection brings the best in innovation to meet the needs of the game’s most athletic golfer.  Using Tiger’s insights, Nike set out to create lighter garments with more stretch.  Cutting edge material and garment engineering shaved 20% off the weight of Tiger’s polo and pant combination. This ground-breaking innovation re-engineers the traditional Sunday Red outfit into the Modern Ultra-Light Uniform.

The TW Ultra polo (MSRP $90) highlights the Tiger Woods Collection.  This Dri-FIT polo is extremely lightweight (2.9 oz.) and features a self-fabric perforated collar for added breathability while also reducing weight. The TW Ultra Light pant (MSRP $125) is a Dri-FIT performance pant with uncompromising craftsmanship and tailoring.  Another new element to the Tiger Woods Collection is providing the consumer with the Swoosh on the left chest of the polo and the TW logo on the center back.

The smartly designed Tour Performance line and Tiger Woods Collection stick to Nike’s core advantage of bringing the best innovations to every athlete at every level.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

IJP Design Launches 'The First Major' Limited Edition Putter Cover

(Riviera Beach, FL) - As the world‟s best golfers turn their attention to this year's Masters, so has IJP Design, as it launches a Limited Edition IJP putter cover. Named "The First Major,‟ the cover is the first in a series of four specially designed putter covers to mark each of this season‟s Majors, some of which include Ian Poulter's own drawings.

Only 750 Limited Edition putter covers are being produced and each will have their own individually signed and numbered silver tag. Like the new IJP Design Spring/Summer 2012 collection that launched this month, the putter covers are eye-catching in design, featuring Ian Poulter's signature and bright colours from the postal graphics, which were chosen to tie in with Ian‟s recent nickname as "The Postman.‟

The covers will also come with their own protective, lined tote bag. Golfers wishing to order the limited cover can do so now for delivery in time for the Masters 2012 for $70.00 at www.ijpdesign.com.

Mark Truby, Managing Director of IJP Design said, “The Majors offer a great opportunity across the golf season for IJP Design to give its customers something new. With only 750 putter covers being produced, golfers can be sure of an exclusive addition to their golf kit, which will also be in Ian's golf bag at Augusta next week.” He added “Ian loves getting involved with these designs. It's a really great opportunity for him and us to do something a little different.”

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Bubba now longest on tour by 10 yards; blasts 31 drives 300-plus yards for charity

(PHOENIX) – Busting 31 drives of 300 yards or longer at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Bubba Watson continues to dominate the tour with his all-pink PING G20 driver. He led the field in average driving distance once again at 321.1 yards. Not only does he remain the longest driver on tour, his average distance is a full 10 yards longer than his nearest competitor. Including his tally at Bay Hill, so far this season Watson has raised $61,600 from equipment sponsor PING as part of his effort to raise $1 million for charities this PGA Tour season.

In addition to a $10,000 upfront contribution, PING is supporting “Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million” by donating $300 for every drive he hits 300 yards or more (up to 300 drives) in 2012. PING’s fundraising event is called, “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING.” All funds raised will go to Phoenix-area charities, chosen by PING with Bubba’s support.  

On the season, more than 61% of Watson’s drives have traveled 300-plus yards, by far the highest percentage on tour. He competes next at The Masters, April 5-8.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

aboutGolf Releases Ball Fitting App

(Maumee, OH) - aboutGolf, world leader in indoor golf simulator and golf performance technology, continues its mission to offer advanced game improvement technology with the introduction of Ball Smarts - an interactive and exclusive ball comparison application - to its exclusive golf equipment ensemble.

Ball Smarts is comprehensive yet user friendly application that uses a combination of ball data gathered through the aboutGolf 3Trak technology and preferences indicated by the golfer to identify the most compatible balls for a particular player's game.

In addition to basic ball recommendations, Ball Smarts enables advanced analysis testing of each recommended ball to allow the golfer to assess the ball based on speed, independently-gathered compression ratings and cost.

"Ball Smarts is simple, yet versatile and robust enough to cater to novice golfers, professional players and everyone in between," says Bill Bales, CEO, aboutGolf. "Our goal is to help every player improve his/her game. As part of that mission, it is important we address and assist with equipment selection."

Ball Smarts is fully compatible with PGA TOUR Simulators and can also be used in limited form without the renowned 3Trak technology. For additional information about Ball Smarts, which is available for only $199 per application, visit www.aboutgolf.com or call 1.800.445.GOLF.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PGA National Announces Haig Course Renovation

Classic design to be modernized, renamed 'The Fazio Course'

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) - PGA National Resort & Spa - the legendary South Florida destination and home of the PGA TOUR Honda Classic - announces its Haig Course will close on April 2 to undergo an extensive renovation and reopen this Nov. 1 as "The Fazio Course."

"The Fazio Course will join four other championship layouts here at PGA National making for 90 holes of exceptional golf," says Century Golf Partners CEO Jim Hinckley, operating golf partner of PGA National.

Originally designed by George and Tom Fazio in tribute to five-time PGA champion Walter Hagen, The Haig was the first course opened for play at PGA National in 1980. As the third generation of the acclaimed Fazio family to work on The Haig, Tom Fazio II will spearhead the efforts to modernize the noted shot maker's layout.

"That my great uncle, uncle and I have all had a hand in developing this beautiful course at PGA National will stand as a proud testament to the Fazio family legacy," says Tom Fazio II.

With the original par-72 routing remaining intact, the renovation combines the best of classic golf architecture and advances in modern technology, course design and agronomics, including:

- Total green surface will increase nearly 70 percent from 1.5 acres to 2.5 acres and grassed with TifEagle.
- Grass on tees and fairways will change to Celebration Bermudagrass.
- Tee-boxes will be reconfigured from circular to square.
- In response to advances in equipment, total course yardage will be lengthened to over 7,000 yards.
- In accordance with the popular "Tee it Forward" initiative sponsored by the PGA and USGA, player-friendly tees will be added allowing the course to be played at 5100 yards.
- The latest irrigation technology will be installed throughout

"Our new Fazio Course is a prime example of our never-ending goal of being the best golf destination in not only the U.S., but the world," says Joel Paige, vice president and managing director. "We continue to create a premier championship experience by raising the bar for our members and resort guests."

With its four other championship courses open for play during the renovation, no disruption of available tee-times is expected. For more information on PGA National Resort & Spa visit www.pgaresort.com, or call (800) 533.9386.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Miura's New Driver: The Most Compact 460cc in Golf

The Perfect Partner for Miura Irons

(VANCOUVER, British Columbia) - Miura Golf has released its new SIT-460 driver, the Japanese company's biggest driver yet. Its large volume offers the benefits of a big-headed driver while its careful design offers a compact look not often found in such clubs.

The SIT-460 (SIT stands for Strong & Ideal Trajectory) has an all-titanium head with a volume of 460 cubic centimeters, the maximum size allowed by the Rules of Golf. But patient and careful shaping by Shinei Miura, son of company founder and legendary club maker Katsuhiro Miura, has yielded a head that offers the golfer a much more compact look at address than other 460 cc drivers.

"Our dealers told us their customers have been looking for the forgiveness and distance a bigger head can provide," said Adam Barr, president of Miura. "With the help of his father and his brother Yoshitaka, Shinei took that as a challenge and set to work on something that would offer big-driver satisfaction while still giving a confident, classic look at address. What he came up with has surprised a lot of people who put it behind the ball and think it's much smaller than 460."

One of the ways Shinei accomplished this was to make the face of the driver taller than in other models. This not only makes more vertical space for overall volume, but also increases the effective hitting area. The large face has visual benefits too: a golfer seeing the tall SIT-460 face behind the ball gets the feeling of confidence that he will definitely strike the ball solidly in the back.

"This is a design lesson Shinei extended from the success we had in 2011 with our new MG Hybrids," Barr said. "The faces of those clubs are about as tall as the golf ball, and that gives a good sense of 'ball coverage' for the coming hit. The driver simply builds on that theory."

Miura's irons, wedges, and putters are forged in their Himeji, Japan forge and factory, but its drivers, fairway woods, and hybrids have always been cast products. The new SIT-460 is a total Miura design, with close supervision of the casting process by Shinei. The all-titanium head is cast in two pieces, the body and the face. Then the face is laser-welded onto the body and carefully finished so that they two pieces are completely unified. Shinei insisted on the two-piece construction because he is convinced this results in a more stable head than three- and four-piece options.

Even though the SIT-460 is 70 cc bigger than Miura's previous driver, the Precious Edition 390, the new head weighs just 196 grams -- four grams less than the Precious Edition. This light weight opens up more fitting options for authorized Miura dealer/fitters, who can pair a wider range of shafts with the large, light head.

The Miura SIT-460 driver will be available in 9 degrees and 10.5 degrees of loft, right-handed only. It will be available at selected Miura dealers immediately, and at others by mid-April. Suggested retail price will begin at US$595 and will vary depending on the shaft the golfer chooses with the advice of an authorized Miura dealer/fitter. To find a Miura dealer near you, go to www.MiuraGolf.com and click on Find Dealers along the top navigation.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Today's Treyburn

Durham club reopens its renowned Tom Fazio design following extensive restoration of golf course and vast practice area

(DURHAM, N.C.) — Following a nearly yearlong renovation and just in time for the spring golf season, Treyburn Country Club will host a Grand Re-Opening Gala March 31 to celebrate its refurbished Tom Fazio-designed golf course and expanded practice facility.

The physical work on the Treyburn golf course began in June 2011 and the club will waste no time showing off its freshly enhanced layout. Treyburn plays host to the prestigious 6th Annual North Carolina High School Invitational April 2, as well as the 52nd North Carolina Amateur Championship on June 14-17.

The extensive renovation done on the golf course allowed McConnell Golf to complete several different projects that not only enhance the layout itself, but also restore Treyburn’s reputation as one of the best golf courses in North Carolina. With these numerous improvements, McConnell Golf members and their guests will enjoy their golfing experience for years to come.

The first and most vital aspect of the project was to replace the decades-old, Penncross bent grass greens with a newer, more heat tolerant 96-2 bent grass — very similar to Crenshaw bent grass — which will provide a much better putting surface during the summer months.

By reseeding the greens, renowned architect and renovation expert Kris Spence and his team were able to rebuild each green to their original specs, while also providing better drainage to each complex. On several greens, they were able to soften severe slopes, providing more pin-able locations.

Tree removal around several greens was necessary to provide more sunlight in the morning hours and allow better airflow on the surfaces, resulting in healthier greens going forward and providing better views on holes such as Nos. 7, 13 and 14.

Another key element in the project was the addition of better irrigation around each putting surface. The new irrigation heads not only allow the greens to be properly watered throughout the year but allow the Treyburn maintenance team, led by superintendant Mark Snell, to better regulate the amount of water in the approach areas. The new state-of-the-art pump station installed during the project will also assist in these controls.

Also, every bunker on the Treyburn golf course has been upgraded with new drainage and the best white sand available, and several new bunkers were added for strategic purposes. In some areas, the bunkers were re-designed or moved to increase their relevance and provide better visual shaping of the holes that is synonymous with Tom Fazio golf courses.

In addition to the new putting surfaces, bunkers, and irrigation and drainage upgrades, Treyburn’s two-decade-old practice facility also received a face-lift. The top two tiers of the driving range hitting areas have been leveled and expanded by 40 percent, and new flagpoles have been installed to provide a cleaner look for the six target greens. The putting green has been completely redesigned with an additional 1,000 square feet of putting surface, providing a better simulation of putts members may encounter on the course. The practice bunker on the left side of the range has also been redesigned to allow for both green side bunker shots and long iron shots to the middle of the practice range.

Finally, expanded chipping and pitching areas have been designed to assist all players with their short game. Necessary modifications that will allow McConnell Golf members and guests a better opportunity to elevate their golf game

“All the renovation work we do allows continuity of excellence between generations of membership,” said McConnell Golf Director of Golf Operations Brian Kittler. “Our members are accustomed to outstanding golf clubs and they want the next generation to inherit an equally outstanding facility. John McConnell takes really good properties, puts in a lot of money and makes them great. He gets them to a whole new level.”

Golf Digest voted Treyburn “Best New Course” when it opened in the late 1980s. Raleigh’s John McConnell and his company, McConnell Golf, purchased Treyburn in December 2006 and today Treyburn is one of eight courses owned by McConnell Golf. Others in the Triangle include Raleigh Country Club and TPC at Wakefield Plantation in Raleigh.

Treyburn sports an impressive résumé that includes hosting stage one events for the PGA TOUR’s Qualifying School (2006-08), the Carolinas Amateur (1993), North Carolina State Open (1997), Carolinas PGA Section Championship (2001), Tarheel Tour Treyburn Open (2005-06), two AJGA events (2006-07) and a USGA Junior Girls qualifier (2007).

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

B330 Birdie Barrage in Biloxi has Couples' Sights Set on Augusta

(Covington, Ga.) — This weekend in Biloxi, MS, Bridgestone Tour Team member Fred Couples kicked off his 2012 Masters tune-up in grand fashion, winning his 7th career Champions TOUR event in just his 30th Champions start.  Couples relied on the new Dual Dimple Technology TOUR B330 golf ball and J40 Dual Pocket Cavity Back irons (3-PW) from Bridgestone to record a fieldbest 21 birdies for the week - including a thrilling 8-footer on the final hole to win the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic by a shot.

In addition to leading the field in birdies, Couples fully showcased the longer distance and better accuracy of Bridgestone’s new Dual Dimple Technology, finishing 2nd in Driving Distance and T3 in Greens-in-Regulation for the tournament. Couples started the week with a bang recording 10 birdies in Friday’s opening round en route to a course-record setting, 9-under par 63.  

“The Masters is probably the tournament that means the most to me of any stop on Tour, so it will be nice to go there with a little momentum,” said Couples.  “The new ball is longer and easier to control in the wind.  I drove it pretty well in Biloxi, and I hope that carries over to Houston and Augusta.”

Bridgestone’s new TOUR B330 ball features the company’s proprietary Dual Dimple Technology cover for optimized aerodynamic performance. The cover’s smaller inner dimples increase thrust power at launch for greater distance while the larger outer dimples promote a shallow angle of descent for increased roll out on landing. The result of the improved performance at both takeoff and landing is greater overall distance performance and a more consistent wind-cheating ball flight.

The new B330 balls feature a street price of $44.99 per dozen (MSRP $58.00 per dozen) and are available now at select golf courses and golf specialty and sporting goods retailers nationwide.

Visit www.bridgestonegolf.com to see Bridgestone Golf’s entire 2012 Tour Team and to view the complete lineup of new products.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Compass Pointe, Eisenhower Golf Courses Celebrate Military Appreciation Week

(VIENNA, VA) - Compass Pointe and Eisenhower golf courses - owned by Anne Arundel County and managed by Billy Casper Golf - will celebrate Military Appreciation Week from April 9 through 15 with reduced greens fees for active and retired members of all branches of the Armed Services.

Members of the military can play 18 holes at either Compass Pointe (Pasadena, MD) or Eisenhower (Crownsville, MD) for $25 (greens fees, cart and lunch) Monday through Friday and $35 (greens fees, cart, lunch) Saturday and Sunday during Military Appreciation Week. In addition, both courses will conduct long drive, closest-to-the-pin and putting contests daily.

"The Naval Academy and Fort Meade, among other installations, give Anne Arundel County a strong military tradition," says Mike Senneca, General Manager of Compass Pointe. "The reduced rates allow us to give back to the men and women in uniform who serve this country."

Gracefully routed through 800 acres of Maryland countryside, Compass Pointe Golf Courses - designed by award-winning architect Lindsay Ervin - offer players a wide variety of terrain throughout 36 holes of championship-caliber golf, including the links-style North/East combination and the tree-lined, parkland-style South/West pairing.

Both courses feature bent-grass from tee to green and the putting surfaces roll smooth and true. While the layouts may be demanding at times, lies from the fairway and around the green allow players every opportunity to make well-executed shots.

Compass Pointe offers a spacious practice putting green and a driving range with both natural grass and mat hitting bays. The Compass Pointe Golf Academy opened in spring 2008 with an extensive player-development program featuring a wide variety of custom instruction for players of all skill levels.

The property houses a full-service golf shop, grille, two pavilions and a new outdoor patio for any size event or corporate outing.

For more information about Compass Pointe or to reserve at tee time: www.compasspointegolf.com, 410.255.7764.

Golfers have long enjoyed playing Eisenhower Golf Course, Anne Arundel County's first public operation. Since Eisenhower's opening in 1969, the 6,659-yard layout has provided fun and challenging golf experiences for tens of thousands of area golfers. Crafted by renowned architect Ed Ault from more than 220 acres of splendidly wooded landscape, Eisenhower's meandering topography takes golfers through forested land, around a lake and alongside numerous creeks and swales. Eisenhower boasts well-manicured greens and plush fairways.

For more information about Eisenhower or to reserve a tee time: www.eisenhowergolf.com, 410.571.0973.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Athlete Tiger Woods’ Perseverance and Determination Lead to a Dominating Win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Woods secures his second victory with the Nike Method 001 – leaving no doubts

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Nike athlete Tiger Woods produced a game-changing performance, powering and putting his way to a 72nd career win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Woods started the day with a one-shot lead and was relentless in his pursuit of his seventh PGA Tour victory at Bay Hill. He came out strong with four fist-pumping birdies on the front nine, extending what would be an uncatchable lead. Solid pars on 15-18 were the perfect demonstration of Tiger-like concentration and poise as he won the tournament by an impressive five shots.

Playing with the Nike VR Pro Blades, Woods was confident in his approach shots, picking conservative targets in response to the difficult pin placements. In the final round, he hit his first 10 greens of the day, tying for second in greens in regulation for the entire tournament.

Woods stated, “I was pleased with the way I was hitting the golf ball and my pace on the greens.” He led the field with 20 birdies by relying on his Nike Method 001 putter.

On the body, Woods wore Nike Golf apparel from the Tiger Woods Collection as well as the new highly anticipated Nike FREE-inspired TW ’13 golf shoes that will be available in June 2012.

The 14-time Major winner will now gear up for his next appearance at The Masters.  Tiger stated, “I am looking forward to the momentum I have built here and the things that I have worked on with my game.  They are all coming together at the right time.”
_____________________________________

Woods’ Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Tour 8.5-degree (Graphite Design DI 6X)
* Fairway Wood: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 3-wood/15-degree and Nike SQ II 5-wood/19-degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro Blades (3-PW)
* Wedges: Nike VR Pro 56-degree and 60-degree
* Putter: Nike Method 001
* Ball: Nike ONE Tour D

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Custom Clubfitting Leader Henry-Griffitts Introduces New T12 Blades

(MAUMEE, OH) - Henry-Griffitts - a pioneer in custom clubfitting and the originator of the clubfitting cart - is proud to introduce the new T12 Blades.

"We had many requests from professionals and amateurs to create a new blade, but we wanted to wait until we really had something special," says Randall Henry, president of Henry-Griffitts. "The new T12 model is really special. I couldn't be more excited about it."

The sole and leading edge of the T12 provide traditional blade workability with a low, centered CG to get the ball airborne very quickly.  Combined with the unique upside-down "v"-shaped design, this results in a mixture of workability, an increase in the effective hitting area and a level of "give" rarely seen in a blade.

The face has been fly cut to ensure a perfectly flat face, into which Henry-Griffitts has machine-engraved the grooves to provide as much spin as possible while still conforming to USGA Rules. These distinctive features combine to deliver the accuracy Henry-Griffitts feels its customers demand from a performance iron.

"The T12 screams classic beauty, with a modern twist," says Henry, who provides perhaps the ultimate endorsement for the T12 Blades: "I will be putting this model in my bag right away. Once you see it and hit it, it will be impossible not to - you'll just have to have it!"

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PING goes to new lengths with adjustable putter shaft

(PHOENIX) – PING is the first major golf company to introduce a USGA-approved adjustable-length belly putter shaft. The adjustable putter shaft, offered exclusively with the Nome 405 putter, allows the player to self-adjust the length within a 9-inch range to optimize performance.

“At PING, custom fitting is our priority, and with the popularity of belly putters we saw a unique fitting opportunity because shaft length is so critical to performance,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “Adjustability is key because the standard 42-inch belly putter fits a narrow range of people. When the shaft is too long or too short, it alters your distance from the ball, your eye position, and the path of your stroke. Adjustability lets you experiment until your posture is comfortable and your eyes are over the ball, which helps you make a consistent stroke and solid impact. We’re pleased to have USGA approval of this easy-to-use, innovative technology. Golfers are going to find it will help improve their putting.”

Length can be adjusted from 37.5 to 46.5 inches. The player changes the length using a PING adjustment tool that threads into a locking ring on the shaft. Turning the tool loosens the ring, allowing the shaft to slide telescopically. The player then adjusts the shaft to the desired length. Turning the adjustment tool in the opposite direction and removing it locks the ring and secures the shaft so it’s ready for play.

As one more fitting step, the shaft is available in three different bends to match Straight, Slight Arc, and Strong Arc stroke types. This coincides with PING’s Fit for Stroke putter-fitting concept.

The Nome model is a timely choice for the adjustable putter shaft. It had a recent PGA Tour win even prior to its official launch. PING Pro Hunter Mahan used a standard-length Nome 355 putter to win the WGC-Accenture Match Play in February. Mahan said the Nome’s alignment aids gave him confidence in his aim. “I felt I could make just about any putt I looked at.” Since the victory, more PING pros have put a Nome putter in their bags. Players are being introduced to the adjustable putter shaft in the Nome 405 putter at this week’s Shell Houston Open.  

Product Details & Technical Specifications:
* Availability: May 1
* The lower portion of the shaft is steel, the upper portion beneath the grip is graphite. The locking ring is made from 17-4 stainless steel. The Nome head is precision milled from high-grade aluminum and finished with a durable nano nickel coating. A lightweight aluminum frame and tungsten sole weighting optimize the CG and the MOI. The mallet-style head features a black alignment bar and white contrasting sightline. The Winn AVS 21-inch belly grip is standard. Lie is adjustable +- 2 degrees from standard.  
* U.S. MSRP: $320

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Old American Golf Club Selected to Host U.S. Open Qualifier

(THE COLONY, Texas) - Old American Golf Club - the Tripp Davis, Justin Leonard design just north of Dallas - will host U.S. Open qualifying May 14.

Participants will play 18 holes at Old American with the chance of advancing to sectional qualifying, and then to the 2012 U.S. Open June 14-17 at The Olympic Club in San Francisco. Professionals and amateurs with a handicap index of 1.4 or lower are eligible to register for qualifying.

"The U.S. Open is the crown jewel of American golf and we are honored to play a role in the championship," says Mike McCabe, general manager. "Old American has become a high profile location for PGA TOUR players to hone their competitive skills on a course that reflects PGA caliber shot making."

Nathan Green, winner of the 2009 RBC Canadian Open, holds the course record at Old American. Green fired a 4-under-par 67 in February, breaking the previous record of 68 held by Leonard and K.J. Choi. Other pros who've played Old American include Y.E. Yang, Rod Pampling, John Senden, Steven Bowditch, and Paul Stankowski.

Since opening in September 2010, Old American has garnered an impressive list of accolades, including being recognized by Golfweek as "Best Residential" and among its "Best Courses You Can Play." It was also named "Best New" by GOLF Magazine, LINKS Magazine, Golfweek and AVID Golfer.

For more information on Old American: (972) 370-4653, www.oldamericangolfclub.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Shanty Creek Resorts Named to Condé Nast Traveler "Top 121 Golf Resorts" in the World

Northern Michigan resort listed among the top 10 in the northern US

(BELLAIRE, MI) - Shanty Creek Resorts (SCR), one of northern Michigan's premier four season resort destinations, has been recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler as one of the "Top 121 Golf Resorts in the World." In its rankings, SCR was also named among the Top 10 Golf Resorts in the Northern U.S.

"We are excited and proud to be recognized as one of the world's top golf resorts, one of only six in the Midwest, by a publication as respected as Condé Nast Traveler," said Chris Hale, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Shanty Creek. "It is a testament to our staff, management and ownership to continually put forth our best efforts in making Shanty Creek Resorts a leading golf destination."

The 16th annual Condé Nast Traveler's Golf Poll, published in the April 2012 issue, was derived from a Readers' Choice survey of nearly 29,000 readers of the leading travel publication. Golf resorts were rated on eight criteria: Course Design & Access, Golf Staff & Services, Rooms, Service, Food/Dining, Location, Overall Design, and Activities/Facilities. The magazine claimed, "121 properties promise gorgeous golf for all skill levels coupled with unrivaled lodgings, food, and service. Great memories, if not a great score, are all but guaranteed."

SCRs four courses-The Legend, Cedar River GC, Schuss Mountain GC, and Summit GC-feature 72 holes of championship golf with designs by the legendary Arnold Palmer (The Legend) and PGA architect Tom Weiskopf (Cedar River). The Legend, a 4 ½ star Golf Digest ranked course, winds through rolling hills and ridges and offers stunning views of Lake Bellaire and surrounding northern Michigan forests. Cedar River was among the "Top Ten New Courses" in the country when it opened in 2000 and was recently named among "Top 1,000 Golf Courses in the World" by Rolex.

After a multi-million dollar renovation, SCR reclaimed its reputation as one of the foremost resorts in the Midwest. The centerpiece of the renovation focused on the beautiful Lakeview Hotel & Conference Center overlooking Lake Bellaire at Summit Village, one of three villages that make up the 4,500 acre resort. SCR's two other villages are Cedar River, which includes an 86-room luxury condominium hotel and Schuss Mountain, also known for being one of Michigan's finest skiing facilities.

Shanty Creek Resorts (SCR) is a four-season resort offering 72-holes of championship golf, featuring designs by the legendary Arnold Palmer and Tom Weiskopf, 53 downhill slopes, 30 km of cross country trails, snowboarding, half pipe and five terrain parks, tubing runs, spa & fitness center, and over 500 lodging options. Located on 4,500 acres, SCR is 30 miles northeast of Traverse City, and boasts three distinct villages, award-winning dining, live entertainment and a full service conference services and banquet center.

For more information about Shanty Creek Resorts, visit www.shantycreek.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Boxgroove Adds Burlington Golf Club

(BELLEVUE, Wash.) - Boxgroove (www.boxgroove.com), an inventive, reliable online network offering golfers the opportunity to play private golf courses of their choosing, has added Burlington Golf Club in Burlington, Iowa, to the private courses Boxgroove members can play.

"Boxgroove members will enjoy playing this top-ten Iowa golf course," said McRedmond Morelli, founder and CEO of Boxgroove. "As the oldest continuously-operating golf club west of the Mississippi River, it is a perfect blend of beauty and tradition."

The club's crown jewel is the challenging 6,515-yard golf course, a frequent choice of site committees for state and regional tournaments. The golf season runs from April 15 through September 15, although weather and grounds conditions often permit the club to allow play before and after those dates.

"Burlington Golf Club is excited to join the Boxgroove family," said Joe Butler, PGA, head golf professional. "We look forward to sharing our club with other private club members, while affording our members access to other fine clubs across the country."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

University of Colorado Dominates at Inaugural Clover Cup at Longbow Golf Club

(MESA, Ariz.) - University of Colorado women's golf team blistered the field by 31 strokes (largest margin of victory in school history) to win the 2012 Clover Cup, a three-day collegiate women’s golf competition at Longbow Golf Club March 16 through 18. The Buffs finished 1-2-3 on the leader board and shot a team score of 9-under-par 855.  Senior Jess Wallace edged out sophomore Alex Stewart and senior Emily Talley for medalist honors.

Perhaps the Rocky Mountain type weather appealed to the Buffs, as play was halted on three occasions due to heavy rain including a pelting of hail that prompted one of the stoppages.

“Despite some rough spring weather on Sunday, we were able to close out a successful 2012 Clover Cup,” said Jay Larscheid, General Manger of Longbow Golf Club.  “Although CU ran away with it, the competitors continued to grind it out on a golf course that was set up to challenge every part of their game.  We look forward to building on the momentum from this event and turning it into one of the premier events in the country.”

The 2012 Clover Cup’s field included Notre Dame (No. 58, Golfweek/Sagarin ranking), Iowa State (No. 33), Oklahoma (No. 30), Colorado (No. 15), Minnesota (No. 93), Tulsa (No. 35), SMU (101), Furman (84), Florida International (62), Cincinnati (126), Michigan (59) and Texas Tech (No. 29).

“We are very excited about being a part of the Clover Cup tournament,” says Irish head coach Susan Holt. “Serving as hosts of the tournament is a great opportunity for our program.  Longbow Golf Club reached out to us last year about being a part of this.  It’s a fantastic golf course and gives us an opportunity to compete in that part of the country, early in the spring.”

Longbow Golf Club is a nationally recognized daily fee golf course located in Mesa, Arizona within Longbow Business Park.  Often described as the “Essence of Arizona Golf,” Longbow Golf Club serves up a desert golf experience that is firmly tied to the traditions of the game.

Designed by Ken Kavanaugh, Longbow is consistently rated top notch by leading golf writers and publications, and was honored as one of the Top 100 Resort Courses in the Country, Golfweek 2009; Top 20 Best Public Access Courses in Arizona, Golfweek 2010; Top 25 Courses in Arizona, Golf Magazine 2010 and has received numerous other awards and top rankings.

Longbow Golf Club is Another Daedalus Development.  To learn more about Longbow Golf Club or to book a tee time, call 480.807.5400 or visit www.longbowgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Robert Trent Jones II To Renovate Poppy Hills Golf Course

Renowned firm adds to its portfolio of high profile renovation work

(Pebble Beach, Calif.) - The Northern California Golf Association (NCGA), which owns and operates the Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, has announced that plans to renovate the course have proceeded through the Monterey County Permit Process.

All formal appeals processes - including that of the California Coastal Commission - also have been completed. Work on the project is to begin in early 2013.

According to Lyn Nelson, CEO of the NCGA, the impetus for the renovation was a recognized need to replace the golf course's irrigation system. "We're really trying to create a golf course that takes into account the water issues and irrigation constraints of the future," Nelson said. We all need to manage golf courses in a greener fashion."

Robert Trent Jones II (RTJ II), known for building environmentally responsible golf layouts throughout the world, designed the original layout at Poppy Hills in 1986 to use 100 percent recycled water. The renovation will cut water consumption by reducing the area of irrigated turf by 14.5 acres while simultaneously lengthening the golf course from 6,857 to more than 7,000 yards-a modern standard for championship layouts.

RTJ II is coming off several major renovation projects, including the two highly-ranked layouts at Princeville on the island of Kauai; The Wisley, in England; Hyatt Regency Coolum in Australia; Ponduk Indah in Indonesia; and Royal Calcutta Golf Club, in India. Chairman and Master Architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., says, "Older golf courses are much like historic buildings, which often require various levels of attention - whether to restore original charm and design features, or to adapt to a more modern world. We are thrilled to be returning to Poppy Hills to make the golf course even more efficient in its use of resources. We'll also help develop an enhanced forest management program and help the course sit more naturally on the site. "

The entire golf course will be sand-capped to improve drainage. New green and bunker complexes will be designed and constructed. RTJ II will significantly modify five holes and modestly modify the remaining 13 holes.

Nelson says that going forward, Poppy Hills will look to host national tournaments such as the USGA's Amateur Public Links, or Men's Mid Amateur.

"At Poppy Hills we pride ourselves on delivering an affordable, championship golf experience within the gates of Pebble Beach - to NCGA members and to the golfing public."

Between 1991 and 2009 Poppy Hills was one of three courses used to host the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am on the PGA Tour, and also hosted the 1991 NCAA Men's Division I Golf Championship.

The renovated Poppy Hills will re-open in 2014.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Pete Dye, Donald Ross Courses at French Lick Resort Ranked Top Two Courses in Indiana

(French Lick, IN) - The award winning Pete Dye course at French Lick Resort in Southern Indiana once again has been selected the No. 1 course in the state of Indiana in Golfweek's 2012 "Best You Can Play, State-by-State" rankings. In addition, the resorts historic Donald Ross course is also ranked No. 2 on the state list again.

This latest accolade, ranking both resort courses as the top two in the state, appeared in the March 19 issue of the leading national publication. Golfweek's course evaluators submit ballots grading courses all over the country on a 10-point scale to determine the country's finest golf courses. Raters take into account factors such as routing of the course, feature shaping, greens, variety and memorable holes, conditioning, maintenance, and landscape management.

"We are very honored to be recognized by Golfweek Magazine and having both of our courses ranked No.1 and No. 2 in the state of Indiana," said Dave Harner, French Lick Resort's director of golf. "These rankings and the combination of the Dye and Ross courses continue to solidify French Lick Resort as one of the elite golf resort destinations in the country."

The Pete Dye course is regarded as one of the most breathtaking and exciting 18 holes of golf in the country. The course was carefully carved on a dramatic hilltop offering a variety of elevation changes, rugged and dramatic terrain, narrow fairways and challenging bunkers. There are spectacular views from every hole, some that stretch for over 40 miles.

Complimenting the award winning Pete Dye course, is the recently restored Donald Ross course, a parkland gem meandering up and down the rolling hills a few miles from the main resort. The wonderful routing of the holes take full advantage of the many elevation points for the classic Ross greens which slope dramatically from back to front. It is one of only two public Ross courses in the state of Indiana and played host to the 1924 PGA Championship won by Walter Hagen.

The resort has been on the national radar in recent years hosting such events as the 2010 the PGA of America's Professional National Championship and the United States Hickory Open Championship. In 2012, the Big Ten will host the Men's and Women's Championships and in 2013 the LPGA Legends will visit French Lick.

French Lick is the only resort in the world that combines the classic history of Donald Ross and the modern day design of the legendary Pete Dye. Golfers can now experience these two top-rated courses through a variety of spring golf package offerings including the "Early Bird Tune Up Package" starting at just $369, or "The Ultimate Spring Golf Escape" for $609.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Odyssey Debuts New Metal-X Putters

Putter Line Features Newest Insert Technology With Dual-layered, Textured Insert

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) - Callaway Golf Company announced the April 13 retail availability of the new Odyssey Metal-X line of insert putters, representing the latest in the brand's storied history of game-changing innovations surrounding the most important club in the bag. With a lightweight aluminum face in front of a urethane backer layer, Metal-X putters provide golfers the crisp feedback of a metal striking surface with the benefits of a softer feel for optimal touch. Aesthetically pleasing with a sleek midnight black finish, the putters also offer a textured face that delivers a truer, more consistent roll.

"The idea for the new Metal-X putters came from working with several Tour players who liked the look and performance of our putters, but wanted the feel of a more metallic face," said Austie Rollinson, Principal Designer for Odyssey Putters. "We took their feedback and decided to create an aluminum face with a urethane backing layer in order to maintain a lightweight face that helps us optimize the weight distribution in our designs."

However, in an effort to improve feel and performance, Rollinson added another key feature. The lightweight aluminum outer layer on the Metal-X putters has a face pattern unlike any other putter in golf, with oval depressions that create a mechanical lock with the ball's dimples at impact. This mechanical lock creates more friction, which delivers a lower launch with optimized topspin for reduced skidding and the truest roll in the game through steady ball deceleration. The urethane inner layer provides soft touch and saves weight to optimize performance. Together, the two layers combine for crisp responsiveness and sound.

"The texture on the face does two things-it reduces surface contact and increases edge contact between the face and the ball. Reducing the surface contact during impact helps us create a solid, yet soft, sound at impact. That sound equates to feel, so it's a great feeling insert," Rollinson explained. "I came up with the oval design on the aluminum insert to also create a lot of edges, which increases the friction between the face and the ball and helps create a very smooth and consistent roll."

Taking specific feedback from Tour players, Rollinson incorporated a midnight black finish to increase durability and reduce glare on sunny days. First introduced on professional tours in early February, Metal-X putters have already been put in play by numerous players, including PGA Tour pros J.B. Holmes and Danny Lee. In fact, in the very first week of its availability on the European Tour, 13 players put various Metal-X models in play.

"Feedback from Metal-X's first few weeks on the world's tours has been phenomenal," said Chris Koske, Global Director of the Odyssey Business. "Every tour professional we have spoken to has told us not only how good the insert feels, but also about how the ball seems to hug the green."

Each Metal-X putter comes standard with a Lamkin 3GEN Pistol Grip, made of Lamkin's proprietary 3GEN material, which is their softest synthetic rubber compound and reduces vibration without dulling the feel of the putt. The material allows golfers to keep their forearms relaxed, apply very light grip pressure, and minimize hand tension for smooth, consistent strokes.

The Metal-X putters will be available on April 13 in a wide variety of models. Core models (#1, #6, #7, #8, #9, and Rossie) will be available for a new product introduction retail price of $149; 2-Ball and D.A.R.T. models will be available for a new product introduction retail price of $179; and Belly and Long Metal-X putters will be available for a new product retail price of $189. (The D.A.R.T. and #7 Metal-X models will be available in both Belly and Long putters, while the #1 will be available in a Belly model.)

For more information about the Metal-X Series of Putters, visit www.odysseygolf.com/metal-X. For more on Odyssey's line-up of popular Belly and Long putters, visit www.odysseygolf.com/bellyputters, and to see Odyssey's complete product lineup, click here: www.odysseygolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cleveland Golf Introduces 588 Forged Black Pearl Wedge

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) - Cleveland Golf announced the introduction of the 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge, an extension of its highly-successful 588 Forged wedge line that was released in the fall of 2011. The 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge maintains the popular, tour-proven shape of Cleveland Golf's original 588 wedge while offering the same technological breakthroughs featured on the 588 Forged line of wedges. It also boasts Cleveland Golf's highly-popular Black Pearl finish, which helps reduce glare to make it easier to frame the ball at address.

Precision Forged from 1025 carbon steel, the 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge offers golfers an incredibly soft yet solid feel, as well as the highest level of manufacturing consistency for supreme confidence and trust over every shot. The 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge's Tour Zip GroovesT and Laser MilledT technology help to maximize spin in accordance with USGA regulations. The 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge comes with a Tour Concept Wedge steel shaft, co-developed and engineered by Cleveland Golf and industry leader True Temper. With a unique stiffness profile that features a less active tip, this shaft promotes a more penetrating ball flight, increased spin and optimal distance control along with superior feel.

"Our latest introduction of the 588 Forged line of wedges has been a huge success for us," said Todd Harman, President of Cleveland Golf/Srixon - U.S.A. "With Black Pearl historically being our most popular finish in past wedge lines, we're really excited to bring the unique look and performance of the 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge to golfers."

Cleveland Golf's 588 Forged Black Pearl wedges will begin shipping in April 2012 with a listed minimum advertised price (MAP) of $139.99. Available in a variety of loft and bounce options, the 588 Forged Black Pearl wedge can also be ordered with personalized aesthetics and performance at MyCustomWedge.com.

For more information on Cleveland Golf/Srixon and their products, visit www.clevelandgolf.com and www.srixon.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Golf Shifts into Full Throttle with its Speed Trials Campaign for Consumers

Consumers can take the head-to-head distance challenge and experience the new Nike VR_S line of clubs

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – In one of the most robust consumer trial programs Nike Golf has ever introduced, the company is conducting Speed Trials at hundreds of golf courses and retailers across the country. Throughout the season, Nike Speed Trials will offer consumers the opportunity to experience Nike’s fastest lineup ever: the VR_S club line.

Nike Speed Trials will allow consumers to compare the speed and distance of clubs in their current bag, as well as other demo clubs, to the new Nike VR_S products on a launch monitor. With participants’ accumulative distance tallied and recorded on a national leaderboard, individuals can see their results featured on www.nikegolf.com.

“The Speed Trial program is the most aggressive consumer trial campaign in the history of Nike Golf,” said Cindy Davis, President, Nike Golf.  “Our VR_S club line is the new face of speed – our fastest family ever.  That simply means massive distance gains. We’re saying to the golfer, we have such confidence in this technology that we invite you to experience how it performs against your current clubs and other products.”

Beginning March 31 in the U.S., consumers will be able to participate in Nike Golf’s Speed Trials at five key retailers including, Golfsmith, Golf Town, Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstore and Worldwide Golf Shops. There will be various major sweepstakes at each of these locations and participating consumers will also receive a 20XI two-ball pack, while supplies last. Similar Speed Trial events are already taking place at other key regional and green grass account partners across the country.

The VR_S family includes drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, and irons. The award-winning VR_S driver and fairway woods feature NexCOR variable face-thickness technology for more speed at impact and greater distance.

Generating more distance for every shot, the Nike VR_S is an extension of the original VR line, which has more than 85 worldwide professional wins including three major championships.

To find a location nearest you, visit the Speed Trials section on www.nikegolf.com.  To learn more about Speed Trials go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou8PciAf62Y.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Fallen Oak Ranked No. 48 on Golfweek's Top 100 Modern Courses for 2012

MGM Resorts International Tom Fazio-designed masterpiece once again places in top half on list of best courses designed since 1960

(BILOXI, Miss.) - Garnering more praise for its beauty, brawny bunkers and brilliant design, Fallen Oak earned two more honors when Golfweek recognized the course as one of the country's best modern courses and the top course you can play in the state of Mississippi.

The publication ranked Fallen Oak 48th on its prestigious list of Top 100 Modern Courses, its annual list that rates courses designed since 1960. It debuted on the list in 2009 at No. 55. Meanwhile, the five-year-old course - which will play host to the Champions Tour's Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic this week - stayed steady with a score of 7.3 out of a possible 10 points.

Golfweek also re-affirmed Fallen Oak's place as the No. 1 Course You Can Play in the state of Mississippi - the fourth consecutive year Fallen Oak has occupied that top spot. That is the 20th award bestowed on the Tom Fazio-designed masterpiece by the respected publication and the 31st overall since the course opened in November 2006.

"As Fallen Oak continues to mature and enhance its reputation as a must-play, destination course, we are proud of what golfers from the legends of the game to our guests have discovered - that a round at Fallen Oak remains a total golfing experience," said George P. Corchis Jr., president and chief operating officer of MGM Resorts International's Regional Operations. "These latest honors illustrate the complete effort our staff puts into making a round at Fallen Oak something to remember for our guests."

These latest honors came right before many of the game's legends return to Fallen Oak for the third Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic. And once again, the game's best over-50 players had nothing but respect for the course's challenge and layout.

"It's a great, great test of golf. The bunkers are very penal, much like if you played in a British Open or somewhere in Scotland or Ireland, where if you drive into a bunker, you're going to pay a penalty," said defending MGRC Champion Tom Lehman, who set Fallen Oak's course record with an 8-under-par 64 in last year's second round."I would have to say it's got to be in the very top echelon of the courses we play."

Fallen Oak more than held its own among courses that play host to a professional tour stop. The course ranked ahead of courses with longer pedigrees as either PGA TOUR host courses or sites of major championships, such as Sea Island's Seaside Course in St Simons Island, Ga. (No. 51), Kapalua's Plantation Course in Maui (No. 63), Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, N.C. (No. 64), Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel, Ind. (No. 76), Hazeltine National in Chaska, Minn. (No. 86), Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville (No. 90) and Shoal Creek in Birmingham, Ala. (No. 98). The latter four courses have all played host to PGA TOUR major championships.

Once again, Fazio's presence on the Modern Course list is impressive in its prolific status. Fallen Oak is one of 23 Fazio courses on the Top 100 Modern List.

The magazine's raters ranked courses on 10 criteria: Ease and Intimacy of Routing, Quality of Feature Shaping, Natural Setting and Overall Land Plan, Interest of Greens and Surrounding Contours, Variety and Memorability of Par 3s, Variety and Memorability of Par 4s, Variety and Memorability of Par 5s, Basic Quality of Conditioning, Landscape and Tree Management and the "Walk In The Park Test."

"It's a very good golf course. It's right up there with all the best courses we play out here," said Champions Tour mainstay John Cook. "This is a good test of golf and that's what you look for out here."

Unique among Gulf Coast courses, Fallen Oak features dramatic elevation changes, which Fazio incorporated among the more than 4,000 oaks, magnolias, pines and other hardwood trees that join the ponds, streams and wetlands that frame the course.

Aside from those elevation changes, remarkably true-rolling greens and Fazio's dynamic design tactics of using the DeSoto National Forest and all its inherent natural elements as a template, the multi-million dollar course features gently rolling terrain and pecan orchards.

The clubhouse and practice facilities alone put Fallen Oak among the top courses in the region. Built to resemble an Acadian-style Southern mansion, the 12,000-square foot clubhouse houses a 1,000-square foot pro shop and locker facilities. The 70-seat lounge and restaurant features top-level dining and a panoramic view of the 18th hole, as well as the majestic live oak that gives Fallen Oak its name. In 2008, that clubhouse was voted one of the "Best 19th Holes in Golf" by Golf Digest.

Fallen Oak is available exclusively for guests of Beau Rivage. Greens fees for this elite MGM Resorts International golf experience are $200. To make reservations, call (877) 805-4657 or visit www.beaurivage.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

KG:3 is Heavy in Features and Light in Weight

(Missoula, Montana) – For the new KG:3 cart bag, the inventors at Sun Mountain took principles honed over 30 years of making the lightest carry bags and applied them to a cart bag. Weighing in at 6.5 lbs, the new for 2012 KG:3 is light in weight but heavy in features offering individual club protection, multiple lift assist handles and pockets specific to the needs of the 21st century golfer.

KG:3 will be in golf shops March 2012 with a retail price of $229. For the retailer nearest you, call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

The new KG:3 cart bag includes a 10.5”, 15-way divided top offering full-length club protection and a separate putter well for easy access. The top of the KG:3 also includes Sun Mountain’s patent-pending three handle-holds offering convenient spots to grab with both hands when lifting the bag onto a cart. An additional hand-hold incorporated into the base of the bag offers an easy place to hold when lifting the bag in and out of a car trunk.

In keeping with a priority at Sun Mountain, the nine pockets on the KG:3 are all forward facing and accessible when the bag is on a cart. Access to the zippers is further aided by a cart-strap tunnel that allows the strap on the cart to pass under the bag’s pockets so not to cover up the zipper or squish the contents of the pockets. The nine pockets on the KG:3 include a beverage pouch and a pocket specifically to protect a mobile phone (ringer off, of course!), and offer space to store rain suits, balls, gloves, and accessories. KG:3 also includes a single shoulder strap and a hip pad for comfortable carrying from car to course.

Graphics on the KG:3 are noticeably modern, in keeping with the new-from-the-ground-up design philosophy used on this bag. Color combinations for 2012 include: black/white/lime, black/yam/gunmetal, navy/blue/yellow, blue/titanium/lava, and black.

For 30 years Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts. Sun Mountain's many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain's "Ahead of Time Design" motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment.

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

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Hireko Golf announces launch of new Power Play Caiman X2 Driver

(CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif.) - Hireko Golf announced the arrival of the new Power Play Caiman X2 Driver. The second generation is even more raw and powerful than before.

The new Caiman X2 Driver still has the geometric shape reminiscent of its namesake - an Amazonian Black Caiman or the most feared beast in all of South America. But this new version has a more refined shape by softening the toe area.

What makes the Caiman X2 Driver outperform the original is what you can't see. The designers eliminated approximately 9 grams of weight from the crown using a new manufacturing technique which allows even a greater amount of weight to be shifted lower and deeper farther within the head for an astonishing combination of power and accuracy.

Aerodynamic, geometric and high MOI, the Caiman X2 driver is also smokin' hot with the lustrous black PVD finish to create the ultimate driving machine.

The new Power Play Caiman X2 Driver can be purchased custom assembled online for $109.95 each at www.hirekogolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Bermuda Revolution

Greensboro’s Sedgefield Country Club unveils new set of green complexes featuring a more heat-resistant strain of grass for the Wyndham Championship in August

(RALEIGH, N.C.) — When McConnell Golf purchased Greensboro's venerable-yet-aging Sedgefield Country Club in early 2011, its new owner recognized significant improvements to the longtime host site of the PGA TOUR‘s Wyndham Championship would be necessary in order to help restore the club to its former glory. Numerous, well-publicized upgrades were made prior to the 2011 Wyndham Championship, while others are ongoing.

Now, with an eye on having Sedgefield's Donald Ross-designed golf course ranked among the state’s Top 10 within the next five years — and preventing the club’s maintenance staff from having to worry about hot weather and its effects on bent grass greens every summer — McConnell Golf CEO John McConnell has announced that Sedgefield will convert its green complexes to a more heat-resistant strain of Bermuda grass.

McConnell said the decision followed considerable research and after his company sought the advice of its maintenance supervisors and Sedgefield’s advisory board. Sedgefield will close the golf course on May 14, and McConnell promised the facilities would be in pristine condition prior to the August 16-19 Wyndham Championship.

"It is my conclusion that Bermuda greens will become the norm for the golf putting greens in the Carolinas," said McConnell in a letter to the Sedgefield membership, in which he also said the total project is estimated to be a $400,000 investment in club improvements.

Bobby Long, chairman of the Piedmont Triad Charitable Foundation Board of Directors, issued the following statement on behalf of the Wyndham Championship: “This news is fantastic for the members of Sedgefield Country Club," said Long. "They already had a beauty of a golf course, but now John McConnell is shining it up so it can truly reveal itself. People tend to think the greens should be soft so a player can scream a low 3-iron into a green and have it stick, but that is not what Donald Ross had in mind when he designed this golf course.

“Bermuda greens will transform Sedgefield into a true test of golf, and we are ecstatic that John has made this decision,” said Long. “Sedgefield is one of the finest courses in North Carolina, and we are honored to play the Wyndham Championship on such a wonderful course.”

In addition, PGA TOUR golfer and two-time Wyndham Championship winner Davis Love III said he was equally pleased about the decision: “Changing the Sedgefield greens to Bermuda grass is great news for the members at Sedgefield, but it’s also great for the Wyndham," said Love, who in September will captain the U.S. Ryder Cup squad. "I thank Mr. McConnell for having the vision and leadership to make this change. The new greens will allow the course to be played the way Donald Ross intended most of the year. I look forward to playing Sedgefield’s new greens in August.”

2011 Wyndham winner Webb Simpson offered similar thoughts: “With Bermuda greens, Sedgefield becomes one of the great golf courses on the PGA TOUR," said Simpson. "Even in the heat of August, the greens will be hard and fast, and that means the course will play much tougher. I think it's safe to say that the days of 20-under par are over. I’ve always loved Sedgefield, but I’m really looking forward to playing the Wyndham this August on the new greens.”

For John McConnell, the big question was not “if” but “when.” In his letter to the Sedgefield membership explaining the timing of the greens renovation, McConnell mentioned the long list of items at Sedgefield that were in need of repair and maintenance when McConnell Golf took over ownership, and that the company was steadily reducing that list as it strives to complete these property improvements.

"The [new Sedgefield] activities building currently under construction will be a gem when completed," McConnell said. "Each time I visit I am impressed with all the design detail and functionality that this building will offer our members. I can hardly wait to sit on that patio and watch the birdies being made on No. 9. The Boardroom will be updated this spring with new furnishings and audio visual equipment so I hope these changes will be beneficial to future business meetings held at the club."

McConnell said that Sedgefield’s golf course is a prime candidate for a changeover to Bermuda because there is a minimum of tree cutting that needs to take place, and that green complexes would not need to be rebuilt. Therefore, the bent grass could be quickly burned out and Bermuda sprigs planted that will grow quickly in the hot summer months.

"[Sedgefield] enjoyed great greens last summer due to a mild July and August, but I vividly remember how the previous summer had left these same putting surfaces very stressed," said McConnell in his letter. "Many other North Carolina golf courses have converted to Bermuda greens or are in the process of converting so we need to get on board with the future of golf in our region.”

McConnell said that in addition to changing the grasses on the greens, the company would be doing other work to the course as well. Golf course architect Kris Spence will oversee the project, which will include enlarging the second green in the back for a better pin position and modifying the front of the 17th green. Spence will also oversee adding bunkers to holes 5 and 15 to better reward great shots and penalize bad ones on the tournament’s two par-5s.

"I would like to stress that we are making this decision for the benefit of Sedgefield’s long term facility improvement plan without any influence from the Wyndham Championship and the Piedmont Triad Charitable Foundation," said McConnell. "Certainly the tournament and the PGA TOUR players will prefer to play Bermuda greens in August’s heat and it will be interesting to see what the winning scores will be in the future with the new greens. Sedgefield’s golf course deserves better than having these skilled players shoot 21-under on our beautiful old layout.

"Bottom line is when you consider the long term maintenance savings that these Bermuda greens provide, this is a decision that is easy to make. And having other McConnell Golf courses in close proximity to play, we hope the inconvenience for our golfing members this summer will be minimal."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

aboutGolf Congratulates Luke Donald on Win, Ranking

(MAUMEE, OH) - aboutGolf, world leader in indoor golf simulator and golf performance technology, congratulates customer and honorary Board of Innovation member Luke Donald on his win at the Transitions Championship, as well as his reclaimed World No. 1 Golfer title.

"aboutGolf is extremely proud to work with Luke Donald," says Bill Bales, CEO, aboutGolf. "We wish him great success in 2012 and congratulate him on yet another win."

Donald, who purchased a PGA TOUR Simulator in 2009 for his Chicago home and joined the aboutGolf Board of Innovation in 2011, captured the win at Transitions with a 5-under 66 and a birdie on the first hole of a four-man playoff.

"My aboutGolf Simulator allows me to practice course management and visualization before an event and work on shot performance for every type of shot," says Donald.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Metedeconk Named To Golfweek's Top 100 Modern Courses List

(JACKSON, N.J.) - Metedeconck National Golf Club has been named among Golfweek's "Top 100 Modern" golf courses in the bi-annual rating in the March 13 issue of this prestigious golf publication.

Golfweek's Top 100 Modern (1960 to present) and Top 100 Classic (pre-1960) golf courses in the U.S. are selected by a group of 675 panelists who evaluate private, resort and daily-fee golf courses on the basis of 10 architectural criteria. Among features reviewed are quality of the routing, variety and memorability of the hole designs, playability and conditioning.

Metedeconk, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2012, is nestled in the upper region of the New Jersey Pinelands and was created as a golfing oasis, a departure from the hustle and bustle of New York City and Philadelphia. World-renowned golf course architects Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Roger Rulewich designed the private, 27-hole facility. The NJ Golf Course Owners Association recently recognized Metedeconk as the 2012 Club of the Year.

For additional information on Metedeconk, access the web site at www.metedeconk.org or call the club at 732/928-0111.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sweetgrass Golf Club Among Nation's Best In Golfweek Annual Rankings

(HARRIS, MICHIGAN) - Sweetgrass Golf Club (www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com) will open it s 2012 season with a recent accolade: it has been named to Golfweek's 2012 Best Courses list.

The official ranking was released in the leading golf magazine's print edition last Friday. More than 400 of "America's Best" raters review thousands of courses annually on a ten-point system, noting features such as course routing, natural setting, and conditioning. Sweetgrass took 14th place honors in the Best State-by-State list.

"With over 1,000 courses in Michigan alone, we're honored that Sweetgrass would be named to this prestigious list among our peers," says Tom McChesney, CEO of Island Resort & Casino, which operates the course.

Sweetgrass will officially open its golf season in April, with value-based green fees starting at $75 and overnight golf packages starting at $95 midweek. Its most popular golf package, the Perfect Foursome, includes a two-night stay and rounds at Sweetgrass, TimberStone and Greywalls courses - all ranked in Golfweek's Top 15 in Michigan. Golfers can call 877-ISL-GREEN or visit www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com for booking information now.

Sweetgrass will also host the Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass June 28-July 1, a Symetra Tour - Road to the LPGA - golf tournament, welcoming 144 professional women golfers to vie for a $110,000 purse.

The course, opened in 2008, is situated at the Island Resort & Casino, a 24/7 gaming facility with 315 guest rooms, three restaurants and a 1,327-seat Showroom that features nationally recognized entertainers. The resort recently opened its new $2 million conference center to accommodate corporate golf outings and groups, and adds the new 5 Bridges Pub & Restaurant this year. The facility is accessed via both Escanaba and Marquette airports with daily flights from Detroit.

For more information, see www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com or call 877-ISL-GREEN.

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TaylorMade-adidas Golf Company to acquire Adams Golf

(Herzogenaurach and Carlsbad, Calif.) – The adidas Group and Adams Golf, Inc. announced that the TaylorMade-adidas Golf business segment has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Adams Golf for $10.80 per share in cash. The transaction value is approximately $70 million, which represents a premium of approximately 71% to the share price prior to Adams Golf’s announcement that it was examining strategic alternatives on Jan. 4.

Through the acquisition of Adams Golf, TaylorMade-adidas Golf reinforces its position as the world’s number one player in golf. The addition of Adams Golf enables TaylorMade-adidas Golf to broaden its product range and to extend its presence across a wider array of golfers.

“This acquisition reflects our commitment to continued growth in the golf category,” said adidas Group CEO Herbert Hainer. “The proposed combination of Adams Golf and TaylorMade-adidas Golf brings together two highly complementary sets of brands, combining Adams' focus on game-improvement as well as senior and women golfers with TaylorMade-adidas Golf’s focus on the younger and the low-to-mid handicap golfer.”

“We are very excited to team up with Adams Golf, whose management team we have respected for many years,” commented Mark King, President and CEO of TaylorMade-adidas Golf. “Our mission is to be the best golf company in the world across all geographies, products and customer demographics, and adding Adams Golf is another important step in achieving that goal.”

"This merger provides strong opportunities for our employees, suppliers and partners,” said Barney Adams, Interim CEO of Adams Golf. “The Adams Golf brand will fit nicely into TaylorMade-adidas Golf’s stable of brands, and together we will be able to increase our reach and better serve our customers by leveraging a wider set of resources. We are also excited that TaylorMade-adidas Golf has decided to maintain Adams Golf’s headquarters in Plano, Texas.”

The Board of Directors of Adams Golf has unanimously approved the transaction. Certain insiders, who include John M. Gregory, Joseph R. Gregory, SJ Strategic Investments LLC, B.H. (Barney) Adams, Russell L. Fleischer, Mark R. Mulvoy and Robert D. Rogers, collectively own approximately 35% of Adams Golf’s outstanding shares and have agreed to vote their shares in favor of the transaction. The adidas Group plans to finance the acquisition with cash on hand or through existing credit lines. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals as well as approval by Adams Golf shareholders. The transaction is expected to close mid-2012.

In connection with the transaction, Barclays is acting as financial advisor to the adidas Group, and Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP is serving as legal counsel. Morgan Stanley is acting as financial advisor to Adams Golf and Haynes & Boone, LLP is serving as legal counsel.

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