Titleist Top Ball at The Deutsche Bank Championship

(RELEASE) - The second event of the FedEx Playoffs is underway and the top 100 players in the race will be looking to go low in order to capture the Deutsche Bank Championship. The 7,241, par-72 TPC Boston layout in Norton, Massachusetts is designed with wide fairways and many risk-reward holes, forcing the players to stay aggressive in hopes of keeping pace with the leaders.

"If you're in position out here, you can be aggressive...everybody knows you're going to have to go out and make birdies" said former champion and Titleist Brand Ambassador Charley Hoffman, who ranks 33rd on the FedEx Cup points list.

"You've got to get to 20-something under. There are guys shooting 60, 61, 62, every year out here"
Points leader and Pro V1x loyalist Hunter Mahan realizes that while there are many opportunities to be make birdies, players still need to properly plan and execute.

"The wind blowing right now should dry out the course quite a bit and dry out the greens. We'll really have to think about our approach shots and how we want to come into the greens, and angles become very important"

In order to shoot low scores, golfers need complete control and confidence in their equipment, especially their golf ball.

BY THE NUMBERS: 2014 DEUTSCHE BANK CHAMPIONSHIP

This week at the Deutsche Bank Championship, Titleist is the overwhelming golf ball choice with 54 players in the field trusting a Pro V1 or Pro V1x golf ball for their success. That’s more than four times the nearest competitor with 13 and more than all competitors combined.

Titleist was also the top choice in the iron (25) and approach, sand and lob wedge (84) categories.

Troon Challenge Amateur Golf Event Concludes at Troon North Golf Club

Champions Crowned after National Finals at Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – After several months of hard-fought competition contested on 26 courses, spanning eight states and drawing more than 1,000 amateur golfers, the 2014 Troon Challenge recently culminated with an exciting National Finals Event held at Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz.
The Troon Challenge is a series of amateur golf tournaments hosting two-person, modified best-ball (shamble) competitions at world-class Troon Golf® facilities across the United States. Beginning in April 2014, two-player teams competed in local qualifying events with a record total of 48 teams (96 players) eventually vying for the championship at the Troon North-hosted finals event held August 23-24, 2014.

In the Gross division, the team of Michael Kaufman and Jason Moore, who qualified for the finals at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Ariz.,  got off to a hot start by shooting a blistering 62 on Troon North’s Monument course.  The 10-under par round was good enough for a one stroke lead with several other teams just a couple shots shy.  Teams arrived for round two on Sunday knowing that in order to win, they would need to post a great number on the Pinnacle course.  The battle was fierce and in the end, the team of Chad Hossack and Sean O’Malley, who qualified at The Boulders in Carefree, Ariz., came through shooting 61.  This gave them a two-day total of 127 which was good enough to tie Kaufman and Moore. Hossack and O’Malley’s stellar day-two round led them to victory in a scorecard playoff!

In the Net division, the team of Philip Bowker and Tommy Harrison, who qualified at Palmilla Beach Golf Club in Port Aransas, Texas, took a commanding lead after shooting 60 in round one.  On Sunday, several teams made a strong effort to catch Bowker and Harrison, but their score of 62 showed they would not let up. Their two-day total of 122 led them to an eight-shot victory. The battle for second place came right down to the end with five teams finishing within a shot of each other.

“Congratulations to all of the champions and of course all of the national finalists, as they all were ‘winners’ as they got the chance to come to Scottsdale and compete in this National Finals,” stated Kris Strauss, vice president, sales and marketing, Troon.  “The Troon Challenge delivers a fun and competitive environment for amateur golfers at many of our prominent courses across the country. With the support of our sponsors and loyal golf followers, this event will continue to grow as an important element of our ‘Play Troon’ initiative, designed to grow the game of golf by offering players a diverse range of playing options.”

2014 Troon Challenge National Finals Results
Gross Division
*1st – Chad Hossack & Sean O’Malley (The Boulders): 66-61 = 127
2nd – Michael Kaufman & Jason Moore (The Phoenician): 62-65 = 127
3rd – Mike Bristoll & Jake Sessions (Whirlwind Golf Club): 67-62 = 129
4th – David Bates & Pete Lugowski (Troon North Golf Club): 64-65 = 129
5th – Steve Blackford & Joseph Fox (Golf Club of Estrella): 64-66 = 130
Net Division
1st – Philip Bowker & Tommy Harrison (Palmilla Beach Golf Club): 60-62 = 122
2nd – Mark Nelson & Dale Banda (Yocha Dehe Golf Club): 68-62 = 130
3rd – Tim Christensen & Warren Nichols (Poston Butte Golf Club): 69-61 = 130
4th – Ryan Beeney & Joe Cuff (Lookout Mountain Golf Club): 65-66 = 131
5th – Ray Williams & Peter Dallas (PGA West): 67-64 = 131
*- Team won on first playoff hole

The 2014 Troon Challenge is presented by Callaway Golf, along with supporting partners that include Imperial Headwear (featured as the events official headwear sponsor), TRUE linkswear, Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, THINQ Golf, Mobicoach, Pepsi, American Hole ‘n One and Infiniti of Scottsdale.

For more information on the 2014 Troon Challenge presented by Callaway Golf, visit www.TroonChallenge.com or search #TroonChallenge14.

NBC Sports Group’s ‘Road to the Ryder Cup’ Begins Sunday

U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson & Europe Captain Paul McGinley’s Picks to Air Live on Golf Channel, Sept. 2

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – With anticipation building for the 2014 Ryder Cup, NBC Sports Group on Sunday will begin an unprecedented, month-long slate of Ryder Cup-themed programming leading into the Friday, Sept. 26 through Sunday, Sept. 28 matches from Gleneagles in Scotland.NBC and Golf Channel will take viewers inside the ropes for a look at everything that makes this event one of the most compelling in sports when the three-part series, Road to the Ryder Cup, premieres Sunday at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC, with replays of each episode airing on Golf Channel.

On Tuesday, Europe Captain Paul McGinley will announce his captain’s picks live on Golf Channel during Morning Drive (7-10 a.m. ET). And later that night in primetime, U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson’s Captain’s Picks press conference will air before an audience of fans and invited international media at NBC’s famed Studio 8H, the home to Saturday Night Live for nearly 40 years at NBC’s “30 Rock” headquarters. Coverage begins at 6 p.m. ET with an hour-long special edition of Golf Central, hosted by Rich Lerner and featuring invited guests, who will break down the current roster and analyze the potential picks available to Watson. This will be followed by live coverage of the PGA of America’s press conference with Watson and live via satellite interviews with his three additions to the 2014 U.S. Ryder Cup team.

Road to the Ryder Cup
Golf Channel on NBC on-course reporter Mark Rolfing, who will be working his 12th Ryder Cup since his debut event at the famous “War by the Shore” in 1991, serves as host of the Road to the Ryder Cup series that will feature in-depth conversations with golf’s most influential Ryder Cup players, recount some of the Ryder Cup’s most incredible stories and introduce viewers to Gleneagles where USA and Europe will compete for pride and country.

"This series is truly a look behind the curtain with some of the highest profile Ryder Cup personalities – the Captains Tom Watson and Paul McGinley; the players, Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter and Keegan Bradley – and even Tiger Woods and “His Airness,” himself, Michael Jordan,” said Rolfing. “I think people will be surprised by what they will see and hear in this Road to the Ryder Cup.”

- Episode 1
Sunday, Aug. 31, 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 6:30 p.m. ET on Golf Channel
Rolfing begins the series by explaining everything fans need to know about the Ryder Cup, and soon segues into telling one of the most amazing stories in recent Ryder Cup history. The incredible European comeback in 2012 at Medinah Country Club just may have been influenced by one of the greatest athletes of our generation, Michael Jordan. A huge Ryder Cup fan, Jordan was brought in by U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III to help motivate his team, but his actions, instead, may have motivated Ian Poulter, who has become known over the years as a Ryder Cup force for the Europeans. As Saturday’s afternoon matches were underway, the Americans were dominating on the scoreboard, and Poulter and playing partner Rory McIlroy were facing Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson in a must-win match. Jordan, sensing this match could turn the tide for the Europeans, followed the group and verbally taunted Poulter along the way, even going as far as poking him in the chest. In a rare sit-down interview, Jordan tells the tale of the battle inside the battle, which, ultimately, was won by Poulter (Video Sneak Preview). Later in the episode, Tiger Woods tells Rolfing what it’s like to miss another Ryder Cup due to injury and what he thinks are the keys to a U.S. victory.

- Episode 2
Sunday, Sept. 7, 1:30 p.m. ET on NBC
Wednesday, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m. ET on Golf Channel
Known for his candid commentary, Golf Channel on NBC analyst Johnny Miller sits down with Rolfing to discuss the U.S. and European Ryder Cup Teams. Who made it and who didn’t, and what fans can expect from their renewed rivalry.   Then, Rolfing will meet with U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson in New York City – just hours after making his three picks to complete his 12-man roster – to get the golfing legend’s take on the tough decisions that had to be made and why he thinks he has the right team to win back the Ryder Cup. World No. 1 Rory McIlroy explains how another Ryder Cup victory will cap off what has already become for him one of the greatest in golf history.

- Episode 3
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6:30 p.m. ET on Golf Channel
Sunday, Sept. 21, 1:30 p.m. ET on NBC
Rolfing introduces the men who will lead their teams into competition: Tom Watson for the USA and Paul McGinley for Europe. Then, the show will take a look at the 2014 rookies for both sides, including Jordan Spieth and Jimmy Walker for the USA, and Victor Dubuisson for Europe, and what they have to do to contribute to the success of their teams. And wrapping up the series, Road to the Ryder Cup will showcase Gleneagles and its Centenary Course, which will serve as the competition grounds for the 2014 Ryder Cup.

2014 Ryder Cup Coverage on Golf Channel and NBC
NBC and Golf Channel will provide live coverage of the 2014 Ryder Cup from Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland, Friday, Sept. 26 through Sunday, Sept. 28. This will mark the first European-hosted event to be televised live in its entirety in the United States. Earlier this year, Golf Channel acquired the exclusive Ryder Cup telecast rights in North America for Friday’s matches, which will be the first time the network has provided live coverage of this event. Both networks combined will air 26.5 hours of live golf – the most ever for a European-hosted event – from the opening tee shot on Friday through the final putt on Sunday. Live from the Ryder Cup and Morning Drive also will showcase all the news surrounding the Ryder Cup, offering more than 50 combined hours of live coverage, Monday, Sept. 22 through Sunday, Sept. 28.

KZG Releases DS-2, Limited Edition Forged Putter

(NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif.) – KZG, the #1 Custom ProLine, just launched the DS-2 Limited Edition Forged Putter, a blade style putter to add to its limited edition “Designer Series” of putters.

Each putter in the Designer Series will be designed by one of the Top 100 ClubFitters in the World. KZG believes that highly experienced and exceptionally skilled fitters who have worked with many of the top touring professionals, as well as many average golfers, know what golfers actually need to play their best.

The DS-2 was designed by Gary Tozer who was a scratch player by the time he was 15 years old; thereafter he played on the tour. He currently is a coach, teacher, professional fitter and owner of the Aussie Custom Golf Centre just NE of Sydney, Australia. As Gary reports: “I learned at a very young age that if you want to win in golf, you better have great equipment.”

In designing the DS-2 putter, Gary reports: “The basic profile is a blade style reminiscent of the 8802 and 8813 preferred by the purist, but with a slightly beveled section at the heel to prevent drag on the green. This design is more suitable for the golfer with a rotational type stroke. The micro-milled face assures that the DS-2 rolls the ball immediately without skipping or hopping.

“I chose a triple-forged process so that the putter is extremely responsive and guarantees repeatable consistency” Gary adds. “The face is dead center and perfectly square, with no offset. And the muscle arrangement at the back is higher at the center of the impact area of the putter. The result is that the feel is soft yet ‘meaty.’”

“KZG has always worked with the elite of professional tour players, teachers and fitters around the globe” reports Jennifer King, President of KZG. “With our elite network of professionals, we have the best in research and design ideas. We are very grateful to Gary Tozer for his design ideas for the DS-2 and already the golf world is responding with rave reviews.”

Each DS-2 putter will be custom fit to the golfer’s unique specifications as KZG products are solely available through qualified professionals (listed on the KZG Dealer Locator at www.kzg.com). MSRP for the DS-2 Putter is $299 and available in brushed satin or matte black.

Troon Facilities Support Patriot Golf Day this Labor Day Weekend

Donations Support Families of Military Service Members Who Have Been Disabled or Lost their Lives in the Line of Duty

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon announced its support of the eighth annual Patriot Golf Day, a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the United States Golf Association. Golfers playing at many Troon-managed facilities around the country will have a unique opportunity to donate a minimum of $1 to benefit the Folds of Honor Foundation (FoldsofHonor.org). The donations will be collected August 29 – September 1, 2014 to provide post-secondary educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled in the line of duty. The mission of Folds of Honor is to help ensure that no family is left behind in the field of battle by honoring their sacrifice and educating their legacy.

"As we all know, freedom is not free, and we are proud to partner with Troon to help the families of our wounded and fallen heroes," said Major Dan Rooney, Founder, Folds of Honor.  “Through Patriot Golf Day events held at thousands of facilities across the country, including Troon-managed facilities, we have given golfers a way to provide their support.”

Since its inception in 2007, PGA Professionals have helped raise millions of dollars through Patriot Golf Day events, allowing Folds of Honor to award more than 7,500 educational scholarships. Patriot Golf Day allows the Folds of Honor Foundation to present an ongoing tribute to the brave service members by ensuring that the families of fallen and wounded warriors have hope for the right educational start to life and best future possible.

“It is an honor to support the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides the perfect opportunity through Patriot Golf Day to give back to the families of those who have given so much through their brave service,” stated John Easterbrook, executive vice president, operations, Troon. “Like the efforts from previous years, I believe the golf community will make a major impact for this cause.”

Participating Troon facilities will proudly fly an American Pin Flag on the 18th green to celebrate the occasion. Additionally many Troon facilities will host special Patriot Golf Day events to increase fundraising efforts with specific tournaments, raffles and more. A number of properties will also expand upon the Troon’s Troops playing benefits over the weekend to show their appreciation to active duty U.S. military personnel and severely injured U.S. combat veterans.

Major Dan Rooney, a former F-16 fighter pilot, PGA Professional and USGA member, came up with the concept of Patriot Golf Day and founded the Folds of Honor Foundation in 2007, following his second of three tours of duty in Iraq. After returning from his second tour, Major Rooney witnessed a profound display of a family’s grief as they welcomed home the remains of Corporal Brock Bucklin. Inspired by this tragic homecoming of a fallen American solider, Rooney started the Folds of Honor Foundation to provide support to military families in the aftermath of their tragedies.

For more information about Patriot Golf Day or to make a donation, visit www.foldsofhonor.com.

Product Review: ClubCrown Stripe

In 2012, ClubCrown introduced itself to the golf market with a bang. The ability to customize a driver or 3-wood - with your favorite collegiate team, national flag, personal style, etc. - was terrific.

Because of the process, it was necessary to either send your driver to the ClubCrown offices or locate an certified dealer nearby. That inconvenience has been addressed with the ClubCrown Stripe. Not only will the Stripe spruce up the look for your club while serving as a helpful alignment aid, but it can be done at home with minimal effort.

How does it work? I can go into step-by-step details that will mean very little to you ... or you can click HERE to watch the process for yourself. Either way, suffice it to say that it’s quick, easy and the results look as though you had a professional on call.

You’re interested. Click HERE to see the style options. Choose from Flags, Colleges, Super Aim (pictured), Military or Stripes for Causes (like Breast Cancer Awareness).

The ClubCrown Stripe costs $19.99, ships for free and can be returned within 30 days - no questions asked. With the Stripe, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain - like accuracy, style and the envy of your foursome.

For more information, visit www.clubcrownstripe.com.

To read our review of the original ClubCrown, click HERE.

Test Confirms That Kick X TourZ is Longest Premium Golf Ball in the Game

New Ball with 'Tour Soft Feel' and Superior Distance Edges Top Brands on the Market

(VISTA, Calif.) – In an independent comparison conducted at the highly respected Golf Laboratories, Inc. testing site in San Diego, the new Kick X TourZ golf ball by Medicus proved it is the longest premium model now on the market.  Matched against the Srixon Z Star, the Callaway SR3 and Titleist’s ProV1, ProV1x and NXT TourS, the Kick X TourZ by Medicus traveled up to four yards longer in a set of controlled drives from a robotic hitting machine.

The TourZ features a Metal Fuzion Core that creates an exceptionally high coefficient of restitution, which is the “spring effect” found in premium golf balls.  Thanks to a fusion of three proprietary metals that concentrates mass in the center of its core, the ball rebounds more quickly when compressed at impact of a clubface, producing additional launch speed and distance. An aerodynamic cover with a 318-dimple pattern provides unmatched accuracy on tee shots, exceptional spin control on approaches and triple-layered construction is engineered to deliver a soft, Tour-like feel around the green.

The Kick X TourZ is part of a new line of performance golf clubs and products created by Medicus Golf, which for more than 20 years remains the leading developer of golf swing training products, including its best-selling hinged club.  The new brand represents more than three years of exhaustive research, development and testing.

“We believe that our training aids, clubs and balls make it easier for people to play golf, play it better faster, and ultimately get the maximum enjoyment out of the game,” said Medicus Founder Bob Koch.  “It’s very rewarding to see the TourZ ball stand out in the distance challenge.”

Established in 1989, Golf Laboratories has developed leading standards for testing clubs, shafts and golf balls. It provides complete and often confidential tests that inform research and development projects within the industry.  For this particular ball test, the computer controlled robotic hitting machine was programmed to launch drives with a 110-mph swing speed.

While a Trackman analysis system measure spin rates, launch angles and speed, 10 balls from each model were hit and then measured on Golf Laboratories’ grass range.

“With exactly the same swing, the TourZ had longer distance than all of the others,” said Koch.  “We chose several popular and high quality golf balls for the comparison.  As a result, we’re now even more convinced that the TourZ is one of the game’s leading premium balls.”

Kick X Golf by Medicus also offers four models of Zball putters, with lines that match those on the TourZ balls, for pure alignment during putting. The Kick X TourZ balls retail for $59.95 per dozen.

For more information on all Kick X Golf by Medicus products, visit www.kickxgolf.com.

Nationwide Patriot Golf Day Events Support Military Families Over Labor Day Weekend

Jack Nicklaus Named 2014 Honorary Chairman of Patriot Golf Day

(OWASSO, Okla.) – Golf facilities across the country will host special events and collect donations this Labor Day weekend (Aug. 29 – Sept. 1) for Patriot Golf Day, the primary fundraiser for Folds of Honor, a charitable organization that provides educational scholarships and assistance to the families of military members disabled or killed in service to our country.

Thanks to the support of PGA Professionals nationwide, nearly 5,200 facilities are registered to host Patriot Golf Day nationwide. Golfers can find participating courses and make donations at PatriotGolfDay.com, while non-golfers can participate by learning more and donating at FoldsofHonor.org.

“For the past seven years, the golf industry has supported Folds of Honor in positively impacting the lives of our American heroes by helping their families realize their educational dreams,” said Major Dan Rooney, Folds of Honor founder. “We encourage golfers across the country to hit the links this Labor Day weekend and pay tribute to our military and the sacrifices they make to preserve our freedoms.”

Patriot Golf Day was launched in 2007 and is jointly supported by the PGA of America and the United States Golf Association (USGA). Jack Nicklaus serves as the 2014 Honorary Chairman of Patriot Golf Day.

“I’m proud to serve as Honorary Chairman for Patriot Golf Day, as this is an effort that speaks volumes about how the game of golf and the people who play it rally to support a cause that greatly impacts the families of the service men and women who have sacrificed life and limb for our country,” said Nicklaus, a long-time supporter of causes aimed to support disabled veterans, including the donation of his time to renovate and expand American Lake Veterans Golf Course near Tacoma, Wash. “For what these heroes have given to us and for us, I consider it an honor and privilege to be involved with Folds of Honor.”

Nicklaus will appear on FOX & Friends Aug. 29 at 7:50 a.m. EST alongside Major Rooney and PGA of America CEO Pete Bevacqua to discuss Patriot Golf Day and Folds of Honor at the Golden Bear’s Florida home club, The Bear’s Club in Jupiter. Rooney will also appear at 6:30 a.m. EST with Folds of Honor scholarship recipient and nursing student Kallie Santos. Santos’ father, Richard Santos, was a decorated United States Navy Vietnam Veteran who was diagnosed with metastatic cancer to the brain related to Agent Orange and passed away in April 2000.

Last year, a record amount of more than $5 million was raised for Folds of Honor through Patriot Golf Day donations and events hosted by PGA Professionals. Since its inception, Folds of Honor has awarded more than 7,500 educational scholarships to military families. Thanks to donations received through Patriot Golf Day events and partner support, more than 2,050 scholarships totaling over $10 million were awarded in 2014.

Major Rooney, a PGA Professional, USGA Member and former F-16 military pilot with the Oklahoma Air National Guard, founded Folds of Honor in 2007 following his second of three tours of duty in Iraq. Rooney witnessed a profound display of a family’s grief as they welcomed home the remains of Corporal Brock Bucklin, inspiring him to create the organization and honor Bucklin’s son, Jacob, with the first Folds of Honor scholarship. An annual award was named in honor of Corporal Bucklin and Jack Nicklaus was the 2013 recipient, joining the likes of President George H. W. Bush.

As of January 2014, there are more than 1.4 million dependents of fallen and wounded service members from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts alone, and 85 percent do not qualify for federal scholarship assistance.* Folds of Honor’s mission is to ensure that no family is left behind in the field of battle, by honoring their sacrifice and educating their legacy.

*Source: Veterans Administration

About Folds of Honor:
Folds of Honor was founded in May 2007 by Major Dan Rooney, a former F-16 Fighter Pilot in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, PGA Professional, and USGA member. Based in Owasso, Okla., Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a mission to empower military families by providing educational scholarships and assistance for the children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our great nation. Since its inception, Folds of Honor has awarded more than 7,500 educational scholarships to military families. For more information or to make a donation, visit FoldsofHonor.org. Connect with Folds of Honor on Facebook (www.facebook.com/foldsofhonor) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/foldsofhonor).

IJP Design Tees Off Weekend Early with Five Deals over Five Days

(RELEASE) - IJP Design is offering customers huge discounts on selected products over five days, starting on August 28.

The five-day sale will see one iconic piece of IJP Design clothing reduced to 50% from 9:00 (BST) each day for just 24 hours, with complimenting items from the same collection being discounted by 10% allowing customers to complete their look.

Each day will see a new set of products available at the discounted rates however customers are urged to place their orders quickly as once 24 hours have passed those products will no longer be part of the limited timed sale.

The products set for sale include contemporary and functional takes on classic chinos, high performance and lightweight polo shirts including the hugely popular striped Albatross polo shirt, and unique ‘Poulter Tartan’ trousers which are designed in accordance with the Scottish Tartan Authority and set those who wear them apart from every other golfer on the course.

IJP Design follows Ian Poulter’s mantra of ‘look good, play great’ by combining style and functionality to create contemporary items that perform to the highest standards and stand out on the golf course with a fashionable edge. The brand’s philosophy is to ‘lead with the legs’ by designing the trousers first and then coordinating the rest of the outfit around them.

The IJP Design five days, five deals sale starts on August 28 and all discounted products as well as the latest 2014 collections are available at www.ijpdesign.com.

Tom Watson Productions Selects Booklegger

Watson Pegs Booklegger to Distribute "Lessons of a Lifetime II" DVD 

(Westwood, Kansas) - Eight-time major champion and 2014 U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson has selected The Booklegger - the largest distributor of golf books, DVDs and golf related products - to distribute his latest DVD series to retailers.

Watson's new DVD set is an addendum to the popular "Lessons of a Lifetime" original that was released in 2010. While that version became one of the best-selling golf instructional video programs of all time -- selling 70,000 DVD sets in 40-plus countries -- the latest series covers many advanced topics, including pre-shot routine, the importance of the bottom of the arc, head movement, getting maximum benefit at the practice tee, handling pressure, the 40-yard wedge shot, controlling trajectory on chips, chipping with a putting set up, and much more.

These new 2014 lessons are being sold separately and also combined with the original 2-disc program.
* Tom Watson Lessons of a Lifetime II With New Advanced Lessons (3 discs and a 20-page booklet) sells for $49.95.
* Tom Watson Lessons of a Lifetime II: The New Advanced Lessons (1 disc and a 4-page booklet) sells for $24.95.

The Booklegger, now a division of Golf Gifts & Gallery, has been a wholesale distributor of golf books, DVDs and other golf-related products since 1974. To place orders, retailers may contact Robert Kraut at 530-272-1556 or by e-mail at rkraut@booklegger.com. Or, call Golf Gifts & Gallery customer service at 800-552-4430 ext 2607or by e-mail at custserv@golfgiftsgallery.com.

Retailer customers may purchase these DVD sets at golf retailers, Amazon or TomWatson.com.

To read our review, click HERE.

Sweetgrass Golf Club Earns ‘Best Course in Michigan’ Honor from GOLF Magazine

(HARRIS, Mich.) – Sweetgrass Golf Club – the award-winning amenity course at Island Resort & Casino – has again been ranked a top course in Michigan by GOLF Magazine.

Judged by a national panel of raters, the biennial “Best Courses Near You” by state list appears in the September issue. Twenty of the nearly 1,000 public-access courses in Michigan were chosen, with Sweetgrass (No. 17) joining Greywalls Course at Marquette Golf Club as the only Upper Peninsula courses included.

“We’re excited to earn this critical distinction from an esteemed national publication like GOLF Magazine,” said Director of Golf Dave Douglas. “Combined with the array of after-golf amenities available at Island Resort & Casino we continue to solidify our place among the country’s best golf getaway destinations.”

Since opening in 2008, Sweetgrass has collected numerous accolades, including “Best New Course” and “Best Casino Course” honors from Golfweek. Each spring the course plays host to the Island Resort Championship, a Symetra Tour “Road to the LPGA” event, and has drawn high praise from players and media for its beauty and creative layout.

Owned and operated by the Hannahville Indian Community, Sweetgrass Golf Club was designed by Michigan-native Paul Albanese. The course features unique green complexes and beautifully crafted rockwork while winding through native wetlands and five reclaimed Michigan Department of Transportation bridges.

Along with nearby Greywalls and TimberStone Golf Course, Sweetgrass is part of the popular “Perfect 4-Some” package, which starts at $215 per person (double occupancy) and includes 18 holes and cart at all three courses with two-night’s accommodations at Island Resort & Casino.

For more information, or to book a tee time, visit www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com.

Troon Expands Global Footprint in Kazakhstan

Company’s Worldwide Portfolio Grows to Include 29 Countries

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing has once again demonstrated its position as the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing, following its selection to manage Burabay Golf Resort – an all-new facility near Astana, Kazakhstan.

With the city of Astana hosting a major international exposition called Expo 2017, the creation of Burabay Golf Resort is part of Kazakhstan’s tourism development efforts that coincide with this prestigious event. The resort becomes the 41st venue within the ever-growing Troon international division and the 29th country globally with an active Troon presence.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Burabay Golf Resort to our international portfolio,” said Bruce Glasco, chief operating officer, managing director, Troon international division. “This will be an exciting addition to golf in the country and the first golf resort to be built there. With unique developments of this nature, there are real opportunities to grow and heighten Kazakhstan’s position on the golfing map.”

Scheduled for completion in late 2015, the facility will be a central hub to the town located on the northern shoreline of Lake Shuchie, which is part of the stunning Lake District. The district is due to receive a substantial renovation in line with the government’s concentrated casino plans. A 150-room hotel and clubhouse are being designed by the French firm Archetype, while the 18-hole golf course is being constructed by the acclaimed Korean firm In-Sung.  The course will have several holes that wind along the lakeshore with stunning views of the mountains in the backdrop and will certainly elevate the standard of golf available within the emerging destination.

With dense pine woods, distinctive rock formations and lakes, Burabay provides a new golf frontier, to be accompanied by two nearby marinas, 15 chalets and two artificial lagoons. The surrounding area also creates a unique leisure offering with several attractions including a rustic nature museum, native zoo and the Burabay National Park. With its relatively short summer season, the region is also a prime location for hiking, rock climbing and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Burabay Golf Resort is Troon’s second development in the region, joining The National Azerbaijan Golf Club. Located across the Caspian Sea, the venue which in only in its first full year of operation has already hosted the European Challenge Tour’s elite. Through events such as this, Troon helps ensure golf plays an integral role in the framework of each destination’s tourism activity.

Bridgestone Kicks Off College Football Season with New Team Logo Caps

(COVINGTON, GA) – To celebrate the start of the 2014 college football season, Bridgestone Golf, the #1 Ball Fitter in Golf, announced that it would begin offering collegiate team logo caps to complement its popular college team logo golf balls. The Bridgestone Collegiate Caps are constructed of 100% Washed Cotton Twill, and offer a relaxed fit.  The caps showcase vivid 3D team logos on the front, the Bridgestone “B” on the back and the Bridgestone Golf logo on the right side panel, and are adjustable by buckle closure.   The Bridgestone Collegiate Caps will be available in 29 major colleges and universities.

Bridgestone’s collegiate cap team logo offering will feature Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Auburn, Boise State, Clemson, Connecticut, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Kansas, Louisville, Louisiana State, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon State, Penn State, South Carolina, Stanford, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Utah, Virginia Tech, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

“Throughout the country on Saturdays in the fall, college football fans love to show their school allegiance wherever they go, including the golf course,” said Josh Kinchen, Golf Clubs & Accessories Marketing Manager - Bridgestone Golf, Inc. “Our college team logo balls have been so well received and so popular among fans, the next logical step was to extend the Bridgestone collegiate program to headwear.  The caps we’ve chosen are high quality and offer a stylish relaxed fit that any fan can be proud to wear on and off the course.”

Bridgestone’s Collegiate Team Logo caps have a suggested retail price of $30 each and will be available at retail beginning September 1.

For information on Bridgestone Golf’s entire offering of licensed products, visit www.bridgestonegolf.com.

EWGA Welcomes 2,000 Women to the Game This Year

(Palm Beach Gardens, FL) - Inviting women to discover golf through the EWGA is paying off. This year, 2,000 women have joined this golf community for women to get engaged, learn to play and have fun. With EWGA Chapters located in more than 120 cities worldwide, the organization is dedicated to inviting and welcoming women of all skill levels into the sport to enjoy all that the game has to offer.

"For the second year in a row, 2,000 new members have joined our Association to experience what golf is all about and to have fun," said EWGA's CEO Pam Swensen. "This is exciting for our organization and the industry to be able to invite women to the game and help them get comfortable playing. We are constantly striving to provide meaningful, organized golf experiences and business connections that open doors and give women tools to be successful on and off the course."

With more than 3,500 events annually, EWGA members have access to many grassroots connections to play golf, elevate their game, competitive play, golf travel as well as a built in community of thousands of women who share similar interests. Conveniently organized activities to meet a busy women's schedule are key to EWGA's success.

For more information about the EWGA and its membership, visit ewga.com.

Antigua Debuts Spring 2015 Women's Golf Collection

(PEORIA, AZ) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of lifestyle and golf apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand - has introduced its Antigua Spring 2015 Women's Golf Collection.

"We're very excited about our Spring 2015 Women's Golf Collection," said Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "Response to the bright colors, fantastic new styling, and the advanced moisture-wicking technology has been outstanding. This promises to be our best-selling women's collection to date."

The new collection is inspired by the concept of mixing comfort and trend. It features a blend of neon colors with black and white -- in fresh new fashion-forward styles. And it's all made using Antigua's Desert Dry and Desert Dry XtraLite technologies that keep golfers dry and comfortable.

"There's so much lifestyle apparel out in the marketplace right now," says Danielle Dellios, Antigua Women's Head Designer. "Many customers are looking for something to wear on the course but also to social events, out running errands, etc. That in mind, I combined a professional-yet-relaxed look for this line. Women want new necklines, collar treatments and styles - which led me to play with the idea of a non-conventional polo silhouette."

The 2015 line combines trim details and flirty necklines with soft and stretchy fabrics, in multiple textures and contents that give a fresh feel to the product. This includes non-traditional polo styles, such as Envy with its soccer-style collar and neckline and sporty color-blocked silhouette; and Zoom, a sleeveless mini-stripe polo that blends polyester/cotton/spandex jersey plus a cut-out at the placket that reveals some skin without being inappropriate. "Geometric shapes and details are trending, and by adding small details like a triangle cut-out on the placket, the once-mundane silhouette now offers something fun and unique," says Dellios.

Neon colors continue running strong with women, and there's a wider acceptance of this somewhat retro-color palette. Dellios believes consumers are drawn to brights after so many years of wearing washed-out pastels and neutrals. "By mixing black and white in with fun colors such as calypso, electric and papaya, I'm providing older customers with a neutral base and a pop of color to make them feel trendy while still maintaining a wide demographic," says Dellios, who for this line used brights with their corresponding deeper tones, to give a more tonal effect and playful feel to stripe patterns and color-blocking.

Thus, the new Clever style uses a three-color braided trim that mixes bright shades into the garment without being overpowering, while Excite blends a white ground stripe with multiple pop colors, allowing customers to choose multiple bottom colors while mixing and matching.

Technology is also featured in the collection. For example, our exclusive Desert Dry technology absorbs and wicks moisture quickly and evenly, achieving the most-efficient evaporation possible to keep golfers comfortable and dry. The Desert Dry family now includes poly/cotton blends. Customers have been requesting a more casual fabric, without compromising the wicking capabilities of the poly fabrics. Thus, it's included in our two new blends -- one in the Clever, which is a super soft poly/cotton solid jersey, and the other in the Zoom, which is a poly/cotton/spandex mini yarn dye stripe.

Meanwhile, Desert Dry XTRA-LITE (D2XL) combines the Desert Dry moisture-wicking feature with specially constructed ultra-light fabrics for maximum wicking performance and optimum comfort. New additions to this category are 100% poly fabrics that feel and look like cotton. For instance, the Jubilee style uses a slub yarn that gives the hand-feel and drape of cotton, but the wicking capabilities of poly. And the Thrill style uses a popular multi-colored nap yarn. The garment feels like cozy cotton, but handles perspiration like poly.

These new cotton-like poly fabrics open up a whole new world to our consumers, who can have the comfort of their favorite tee while maintaining the ease of poly's wear and wicking power.

For more details on Antigua's Spring 2015 Women's Golf Collection, visit: www.Antigua.com and ShopAntigua.com.
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Hilton Head Golf Island Announces Fall Stay-and-Play Packages

Prime Course Conditions, Perfect Weather Ideal for End-of-Season Golf Trip

(HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C.) – Hilton Head Golf Island – a collection of the Lowcountry’s 30 premier golf courses – announces an assortment of fall stay-and-play packages ideal for end-of-season vacations and golf buddy trips.

Autumn is when Hilton Head Island is at its best with warm air and water temperatures, low humidity and the best course conditions of the year. Golf enthusiasts can hit the links or the beach and enjoy the island’s plethora of leisure activities as well as unique seasonal culinary delicacies, including soft-shell crab and Lowcountry oysters.

Ranked top 10 in seven categories by Golf Digest including ““Best Buddies Trip Destination” and “Best Weather,” HHGI has numerous golf getaway packages available for fall:
The Sea Pines Resort – “Stay-and-Play Villa Golf Package:” Experience three nights in private villa accommodations and one round each at Harbour Town Golf Links, Ocean Course and Heron Point by Pete Dye. Offer is full of extras including complimentary afternoon repeat rounds on the Ocean Course and Heron Point, range balls and 10 percent discount on retail merchandise and food and beverage at the resort's pro shops and restaurants. Packages start at $164 per golfer, per night and based on quad-occupancy. Rate valid through Dec, 31. For package and reservation information: 1.800.SEAPINES, www.seapinesgolf.com.
Palmetto Dunes – “Fall Stay-and-Play:” Stay three nights in a two-bedroom villa and play three rounds at each of the resort’s championship courses, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills and George Fazio. Enjoy two hours of complimentary tennis court time (daily), preferred rates and priority access on all other resort activities and amenities as well as dining and merchandise discounts. Based on quad-occupancy, rates start at $135 per golfer, per night and include all taxes and resort fees. Valid through October 31. Additional rules and restrictions apply.  For package and reservation information: 877.567.6507, www.PalmettoDunes.com.
The Heritage Golf Collection – “Four Nights, Four Rounds:” Enjoy four nights at the newly-renovated Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and four rounds of golf at any of seven Heritage Collection courses including Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club, Shipyard Golf Club, Palmetto Hall Plantation Club and Oyster Reef Golf Club. Package also includes complimentary range balls, tee gift on first day of play, discounts at golf pro shops and clubhouses and 10 percent off spa services at The Heavenly Spa by The Westin. Based on double occupancy, packages start at $175 per golfer, per night. Valid Sept. 13 – Nov. 7. For package and reservation information: 843.681.1706, vcastaneda@heritagegolfgroup.com.
Old South Golf Links – “Par 3 Package:” Just over the bridge in the charming mainland town of Bluffton is the acclaimed Old South Golf Links. Package includes two nights at the Hilton Garden Inn with complimentary breakfast, one round at Old South Golf Links and two rounds at Hampton Hall Golf Club, The Country Club of Hilton Head or Bear Creek Golf Club. Starting at $385 per person in a double occupancy standard room, price includes sales and accommodations tax. Valid September 21 – November 30. For package and reservation information: 800.257.8997, www.oldsouthgolf.com.

“This time of year is Hilton Head Island’s best-kept secret and brings those days on the course that golfers live for,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association and Vice President of Sports and Operations at Sea Pines Resort. “These fall getaway packages allow guests to experience the finest of what the Lowcountry has to offer at an exceptional value.”

As one of the nation’s foremost golf capitals, Hilton Head Island is the preferred vacation destination of golfers seeking a high-concentration of world-class quality courses, an unspoiled natural environment, beautiful resorts and inns, and old-fashioned Southern hospitality The legendary coastal Carolina destination has invested more than $200 million in upgrades in the past two years that are already finished, or under construction, transforming Hilton Head Island into the freshest resort town in America.

For additional information or to receive a quote: www.HiltonHeadGolfIsland.com, 800.523.3373.

FootGolf Spreads across United States with More Than 200 Certified Courses

(PALM SPRINGS, Calif.) - As the quickly emerging sport of FootGolf continues to grow in popularity throughout the United States, the sport’s governing body, the American FootGolf League, has been busy making sure FootGolfers have plenty of opportunities to play.

Recognized by the Federation for International FootGolf as the exclusive governing body in the United States, the AFGL has certified more than 100 courses to date in 2014, bringing the total to more than 200 in almost 40 states.

A combination of golf and soccer played with a regulation soccer ball on a shortened golf course, FootGolf is played much like golf, with the goal being to get the soccer ball into the 21-inch hole with as few kicks as possible.

“FootGolf is the sport of the future,” said Roberto Balestrini, who, along with his wife Laura, introduced FootGolf in the U.S. in 2011. “As we saw with the World Cup, the popularity of soccer is incredible in the United States and it will only grow. FootGolf provides a new fun – and competitive – outlet for the more than 24 million soccer players here.”

The sport has grown so much in popularity since its introduction in the United States in 2011 that the AFGL will stage its inaugural U.S. Pro-Am Tour later this fall with a national championship to follow in 2015. The Pro-Am Tour features an East Coast event at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ, from Sept. 14-16 with a West Coast event being held at River Ridge Golf Club in Oxnard, CA, Sept. 19-21.

This tour will offer a total cash purse of $25,000. The tournaments will be multi-day events to attract players at all level and categories with the intention of creating more awareness about FootGolf nationwide and around the world. More than 50 players from 10 different countries are already registered. AFGL officials have confirmed participation of top players worldwide in both the East and West Coast Tournaments.

The AFGL has recently introduced a handicap system similar to golf in order to provide a foundation for competitive events. “Our vision is that FootGolf will evolve into a competitive national sport,” Balestrini added. “We are hosting the first pro-am events in the history of our sport this fall and are already working on national and international events for 2015. The momentum behind this movement is amazing.”

FootGolf players are not the only ones showing enthusiasm for the game. Golf facilities continue to line up to receive certification and official equipment from the AFGL.

The sport is proving to not only drive much-needed revenue for the golf industry by filling up unused tee times but also bringing new demographics out to their facilities. Haggin Oaks, long considered an innovator in the golf industry, has embraced FootGolf at its facility in Sacramento and is reporting more than 1,000 rounds per month.

“We have been a proud partner of the AFGL since we started our own FootGolf course last year,” said Mike Woods, director of golf at Haggin Oaks. “Their growing and diverse player profile is an ideal fit for our facility.”

The AFGL made the strategic decision to sanction only existing golf courses as official FootGolf facilities. “We felt that golf courses were a natural fit as the basic layout is already in place and they are run in a professional manner,” said Balestrini. “As we’ve seen with Haggin Oaks and many others, this strategy is definitely working.”

The golf industry has also embraced FootGolf as an alternative way to grow the game. FootGolf and the AFGL have been recognized by many national organizations. The soccer industry is also supportive of FootGolf. The US Youth Soccer is promoting FootGolf through a video on its social networks and the MLS recently conducted a FootGolf tournament with AFGL officials in attendance at its 2014 All-Star Game 2014 presented a FootGolf Tournament in Portland, OR.

For information on the US Pro-Am FootGolf Tour 2014, visit www.footgolftour.com. For more information on the AFGL and FootGolf, visit www.footgolf.net.

PGA Tour Pro Hunter Mahan, Winner of the The Barclays, Installs Full Swing Golf Simulator at Home

(SAN DIEGO, CA) - Golf simulator leader, Full Swing Golf, congratulates Hunter Mahan on his hard fought victory at The Barclays in Paramus, NJ.  Mahan installed one of its golf simulators featuring Ion Vision Technology in his beautiful new home in the Dallas, Texas area.      

"I use it several times a week to fine-tune my game," says Mahan. "I like to practice on my simulator in range mode, where the data feedback is very extensive and always reliable. It gives me the tools and data I need to analyze my game, make adjustments and consistently improve. It's great to have this technology in my own home where I can practice when I want and how I want."

"Full Swing Golf is proud to claim PGA TOUR superstar Hunter Mahan as a customer," said Chad Coleman, VP of Sales and Marketing for Full Swing Golf. "Hunter uses his machine several times a week to tune-up and dial-in, that's a lot of trust and confidence in our technology. We're proud that TOUR pros like Hunter trust FSG for our accuracy and realism. In addition to Hunter's busy TOUR schedule, Hunter is a new dad with a young family. His FSG sim offers highly-technical feedback and fun with unparalleled convenience ... right down the hall."

For more information on Full Swing Golf: www.fullswinggolf.com.

Golf Channel Reveals 12-Member Cast for Big Break Myrtle Beach

Premiering Tuesday, Oct. 7, Big Break Myrtle Beach to Feature Cast of 12 Aspiring Professional Golfers - Six Men and Six Women

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – The cast for Golf Channel’s 22nd season of its popular Big Break reality competition series – Big Break Myrtle Beach – was revealed today, featuring six men and six women hoping to take that next step in their professional golf careers.  They will compete for a grand prize of more than $100,000 in cash and prizes, including an exemption to either the 2015 Valspar Championship on the PGA TOUR or the 2015 Portland Classic on the LPGA Tour.

Big Break Myrtle Beach premieres Oct. 7 at 9 p.m. ET on Golf Channel.Produced in partnership with Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday and South Carolina Tourism and filmed at Barefoot Resort and Golf in Myrtle Beach, S.C., Big Break Myrtle Beach features a cast of 12 who are at different stages in their professional golf careers.  Several are playing full time on the Symetra Tour and various mini tours throughout North America, while others turned professional solely to qualify for Big Break Myrtle Beach. All 12 will compete against each other in hopes of making their lifelong dream of walking the fairways on the PGA TOUR or LPGA Tour a reality.

The contestants are:
Jimmy Brandt (31, Auburn, Ala.) – Competing full time on the mini tour circuit, Brandt accumulated six victories and 16 top-10 finishes on the Hopkins Tour in 2012 and 2013.  Brandt earned conditional status on the Web.com Tour in 2011 and 2012 via PGA TOUR Q School, and is looking to return to golf’s biggest stages.  His father, who introduced him to the game, also is his full-time caddie.
Katie Detlefsen (25, Eagan, Minn.) – One of the top female junior golfers to come out of Minnesota and a recipient of the prestigious Dinah Shore Award in 2010, Detlefsen has been an LPGA Class A Teaching Professional since graduating from the University of Central Florida in 2011.  A college teammate of fellow Big Break Myrtle Beach competitor Carolin Pinegger, Detlefsen is using her teaching skills in pursuing her dream of competing on the LPGA Tour. Detlefsen also was a recipient of the prestigious Dinah Shore Award in 2010, an award given annually to a female collegiate golfer who excels in academics and athletics, while also demonstrating outstanding leadership skills and community service.
Katy Harris (35, Humble, Texas) – A top amateur golfer and All-American at Louisiana State University, Harris hung up her golf clubs following graduation in 2001 due to a hand injury. Nine years later, in 2010, Harris decided to give professional golf another try.  Since returning to competitive golf, she qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open three consecutive years (2011-13), recorded victories on the Cactus Tour, CN Canadian Women’s Tour and the Symetra Tour and earned conditional status on the LPGA Tour for the 2014 season.
Charlie Harrison (23, Atlanta, Ga.) – A graduate from Wake Forest University in 2013, Harrison is currently competing on PGA TOUR Latinoamerica and the mini tour circuit.  He recorded his first victory as a professional in 2013 on the Open Atlanta Golf Tour.
Christian Heavens (25, Orlando, Fla. / East St. Louis, Ill) – An alumnus of the First Tee of Greater St. Louis, Heavens credits golf for saving his life and as an avenue that helped him escape from the pressures of the streets of East St. Louis.  A graduate of Georgetown College in Kentucky where he competed on a First Tee Scholars scholarship, Heavens currently is competing on the mini tour circuit and the Florida Professional Golf Tour.
Dave Markle (29, Shelburne, Ontario, Canada) – One of the top amateur golfers from Canada (12th ranked amateur in the world in the R&A World Amateur Golf Rankings in 2008), Markle is competing on PGA TOUR Canada and the mini tour circuit.  Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2011, Markle is an ambassador for the Canadian Diabetes Association, helping raise awareness and funds for Diabetes research.
Toph Peterson (28, Gilbert, Ariz. / Logan, Utah) – A graduate from Utah State University, Peterson is giving professional golf another push after stepping away from the game to start up a designer walking bag company. He currently is competing full time on various mini tours.
Carolin Pinegger (23, Orlando, Fla. / Schladming, Austria) – One of the more decorated junior golfers out of Austria, Pinegger moved to the United States at age 16 and played college golf at the University of Central Florida (where she was a teammate of fellow Big Break Myrtle Beach competitor Katie Detlefsen).  She turned professional following graduation in 2013 and is competing full time on the Symetra Tour.
Krista Puisite (23, Austin, Texas / Riga, Latvia) – A decorated junior golfer from Latvia where she was a member of the Latvian Junior National Team, Puisite turned professional in early 2014 after graduating from Texas State University. She is competing on the mini tour circuit and the Symetra Tour.
Anthony Quezada (19, Phoenix, Ariz.) – One of the youngest competitors in Big Break series history at age 19, Quezada turned professional in 2013 to achieve his dream of competing on the PGA TOUR.  An alumnus of The First Tee of Phoenix, Quezada recorded 33 victories with the Junior Golf Association of Arizona circuit. He, along with fellow Big Break Myrtle Beach competitor David Markle, has Type I Diabetes, and wants to use golf as a platform to spread awareness for Diabetes research.
Tessa Teachman (24, Baton Rouge, La.) – Currently a member of the Ladies European Tour, Teachman is playing competitive golf in good health for the first time since college at Louisiana State University, where she finished third individually at the 2012 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championships as a senior.  Following graduation in 2012, she underwent wrist surgery to repair multiple torn tendons in her right wrist – an injury that plagued her throughout college.  Following rehabilitation, she earned status on the Ladies European Tour in late 2013 and is playing a full schedule on the LET and the mini tour circuit in the United States in 2014.
Emily Tubert (22, Burbank, Calif.) – A three-time All-American at the University of Arkansas, Tubert is competing on Big Break Myrtle Beach fresh off of graduating from college in May.  While she might be one of the younger competitors on the series, on paper she is one of the favorites. Her resume includes: winning the 2010 U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship, member of the 2012 U.S. Curtis Cup Team, three-time All-American at the University of Arkansas, and a participant in the 2013 U.S. Women’s Open as an amateur.  Earlier this year, she was the recipient of the prestigious Dinah Shore Award, an award given annually to a female collegiate golfer who excels in academics and athletics, while also demonstrating outstanding leadership skills and community service.

PAIGE MACKENZIE JOINS AS CO-HOST: Serving as co-hosts for Big Break Myrtle Beach will be Tom Abbott and Paige Mackenzie. Mackenzie, a seven-year veteran of the LPGA Tour who also currently serves as a Golf Channel analyst, will make her Big Break co-hosting debut, providing analysis from a player’s perspective and detailing the pressure the competitors will face with each challenge.

GRAND PRIZE: The winner of Big Break Myrtle Beach will receive more than $100,000 in cash and prizes, including:
* An exemption to the 2015 Valspar Championship or the 2015 Portland Classic on the LPGA Tour.
$75,000 in cash, including $5,000 courtesy of Dick’s Sporting Goods, $10,000 courtesy of Macanudo and $10,000 courtesy of Adams Golf.
* Full, exempt status to the 2015 NGA Pro Golf Tour or the 2015 Symetra Tour with all entry fees paid.
* An endorsement contract from Adams Golf.
* $10,000 in car rental credit courtesy of Avis Car Rental.
* $10,000 in travel credit courtesy of Travelocity.
* A seven-day, six-night all-expenses paid return trip to Myrtle Beach with accommodations provided by North Beach Plantation and six rounds of golf that can be played at any of Myrtle Beach’s 100 premiere golf courses.

HOST GOLF COURSES: Filmed on location in June, the series will unfold on three of Barefoot Resort’s award-winning golf courses – The Dye, Fazio and Love Courses – as well as Pawleys Plantation on Pawleys Island.

The Dye Course, a classic Pete Dye layout, has been ranked among the nation’s top 100 public courses by Golf Digest and was recently named 2013 South Carolina Golf Course of the Year by the South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association.

The Fazio Course, designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio, has been ranked as one of America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses by Golf Digest.

The Love Course, designed by Carolina native Davis Love III, has been ranked among America's Top 100 You Can Play by Golf Magazine for years and as the top-ranked golf course in Myrtle Beach by Golf Digest.

Pawleys Plantation, the award-winning Jack Nicklaus design just south of Myrtle Beach on Pawleys Island.

The Marina Inn and Resort at Grande Dunes served as official host resort for the competitors and production team during the filming of the series.

SERIES FORMAT: Golf Channel’s Big Break show concept pits highly skilled golfers against each other in a variety of challenges that test their physical skills and mental toughness.  During Big Break Myrtle Beach, the competitors will be subject to skills challenges from tee-to-green, including the popular “Glass Break” and “Flop Wall.”  One contestant will be eliminated each week, with the last player standing awarded his or her Big Break, an opportunity to compete on the PGA TOUR or LPGA Tour in 2015.

For the past 21 seasons, Golf Channel’s Big Break competition series has proven to be the launching pad for many aspiring professional golfers looking to take that next step in their golf careers, including PGA TOUR winners Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey and Matt Every, and U.S. Solheim Cup participants Kristy McPherson, Gerina Piller and Ryann O’Toole, all playing full time on the PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour, respectively.  Several other past Big Break competitors are currently competing on the world’s top tours, including Anya Alvarez, Nicole Smith, Jackie Stoelting and Kim Welch on the LPGA Tour and Tony Finau, Hugo Leon, James Nitties and Mark Silvers on the Web.com Tour.

Become a fan of Big Break on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BigBreak
Follow Big Break on Twitter @BigBreak

Mystical Golf Offers Gold and Silver Stay-and-Play Packages

Highlights Include Deluxe Villa Lodging, Three Acclaimed Courses, Numerous Extras

(MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.) – Mystical Golf – owner and operator of The Witch, Man-O-War and The Wizard courses and celebrated by media like Golf Digest, GOLF Magazine and GolfChannel.com – announces its “Gold” and “Silver” stay-and-play packages ideal for Grand Strand golf vacations.
                                       
Called the “best 54 holes of golf in Myrtle Beach,” the Mystical Golf trio of diverse Dan Maples-designed layouts all feature superlative design elements, excellent year-round course maintenance and gracious customer service that is second to none.

Starting at $258 (per person, taxes included), the Gold Package features:
* Three rounds with cart on each of The Witch, The Wizard and Man-O-War
* Three nights’ lodging in well-appointed three-bedroom golf villas (four beds)
* Free extra fourth round on any Mystical Golf course
* Complimentary iHOP breakfast daily
* Free steak dinner at Logan’s Roadhouse (includes non-alcoholic beverages, taxes)
* Lunch and two beers free at the course each day (excluding complimentary round)
* Free daily range balls
* $15 gift card toward a golf shirt
* Instant replay round for cart fee only
* Extra night stays available at moderate cost per person

The Silver Package starts at $228 (per person, taxes included) and features all the offerings of the Gold Package except daily breakfast, steak dinner and complimentary round.

“Our Gold and Silver stay-and-play packages offer the finest golf in Myrtle Beach as well as nightly accommodations perfect for total rest and relaxation,” says Claude Pardue, President and CEO of Mystical Golf. “No matter which option is selected, a great vacation awaits at the premier ‘golf buddy’ destination in North America.”

The Witch sits on 500 acres of tranquil cypress groves and wetlands teeming with flora and fauna. Tactical play is rewarded on the par-71, 6,702-yard layout. With 4,000 feet of bridges wending through swamps (front nine) and rolling hills (back nine), golfers may spy cranes, bald eagles, alligators and black bears.

Man-O-War is revered for its back-to-back island greens and water features touching every hole.  With a commanding 141 slope rating, the par-72, 6,967-yard layout is offset by straight-forward shots and excellent, bent-grass greens.

Reminiscent of classic, wind-swept links courses in Scotland and Ireland, The Wizard presents deep bunkers, mound-framed fairways and dramatic elevation changes. Trademark stone bridges and an Old-World, castle-style clubhouse add character to the par-72, 6,721-yard shot-maker’s course.

For Mystical Golf information: www.mysticalgolf.com, 843.282.2977.

KemperSports to Manage La Gorce Country Club

(NORTHBROOK, Ill.) – KemperSports has been selected to manage La Gorce Country Club, an iconic private equity club in Miami Beach, Fla.  Widely recognized as one of the preeminent clubs on the east coast of the United States, the Board of Governors and membership at La Gorce selected KemperSports for its reputation for award winning customer service, high standards for operations and course conditioning, and the industry’s largest portfolio of Top 100 courses and clubs.

La Gorce is a member owned club with a storied history dating back to 1927 when the original golf course was built from dredgings from the Biscayne Bay.  Along with an 18-hole, par-71 layout that has seen additions by Robert Trent Jones and a 1995 redesign by Jack Nicklaus, the club also includes a new 50,000 square-foot clubhouse that opened in 2005.  Men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, six har tru clay tennis courts, a fitness facility, tropical pool, croquet lawn, full practice facility and multiple casual and fine dining options round out the club amenities today.

“We look forward to the leadership and command of the club business that lead the Board of Governors and members to select KemperSports to usher La Gorce to continued success,” said Scott Copeland, President of the Board.  “We welcome their proven ability to guide our staff of dedicated professionals to the next level of service. “

Located in the heart of South Beach, La Gorce Country Club’s history of long time celebrity members like Joe DiMaggio, Will Rogers, Jack Dempsey and Babe Zaharius helped make the club a popular retreat for those fortunate enough to receive an invitation to membership.  The Club planted itself as a key fixture on the national golf scene by hosting the Miami Beach-La Gorce Open which was won by Gene Sarazen in 1931. In addition, teaching professional Jack Grout, the long-time mentor and only instructor to Jack Nicklaus, spent 13 years as the head professional at the club, bringing with him many visits from Nicklaus and his counterparts on the PGA TOUR.

“La Gorce Country Club is revered as one of historic private clubs in the eastern United States,” said KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner. “It is our pleasure and an honor to be tasked with the stewardship and operation of the club working closely with the Board of Directors.  We look forward to developing programs with the membership to enhance the experience for members and their guests as the club writes the next chapter in its remarkable history.”

La Gorce is poised to increase its national prominence with an upcoming redesign of the course by Jack Nicklaus in 2015 and a proposed clubhouse renovation with KemperSports’ assistance.  For more information on La Gorce Country Club, visit www.lagorcecc.com.

3 Up Golf Launches Its Newest Ball - 2S14

(RELEASE) - Not everybody plays a 3-piece premium golf ball like the 3F12. Two layers is more than enough for many golfers out there. That's why 3 Up Golf is introducing a 2-piece golf ball. They've stayed true to their mission and built a 2-piece golf ball that feels and performs like nothing you've teed up before. One clean strike with an 8-iron and you'll know exactly what the "S" stands for in 2S14 - SOFT.

Stop by the newly redesigned 3upgolf.com and read more about the 2S14 to see if it's the right fit for your game.

The Most Worthy of Causes
In case you're new to 3 Up Golf, you may not know about one of the pillars of the company - philanthropy. For every dozen balls sold, $3 goes directly to a golf-related charity. It's not something the company does for promotional purposes, but rather something out of a deep desire to give back to a game that's given so much to so many.

Their latest contribution is one that founder Rob Zimmerman hopes all will consider donating to very soon: The Folds Of Honor Foundation. Every year, FoH runs a nation-wide campaign, Patriot Golf Day, to raise money for the families of wounded or fallen service members. The funds are used to provide scholarships to recipient families from all across our great nation.

You can read more about the Folds Of Honor, why 3 Up Golf donated to their amazing organization and what you can do to help by reading this blog post.

CHAMP Spikes Trusted by Winner at The Barclays

(MARLBOROUGH, MA) - CHAMP/MacNeill Engineering Worldwide – The World Leader in Sport Cleat Technology and maker of innovative CHAMP spikes, high-performance golf tees and accessories – confirms the winner of The Barclays, the first of four FedExCup Playoff events, relied on its renowned spikes.

The 32-year-old victor utilized the CHAMP Zarma spike, which features patented Lotus technology to soften the impact of walking and ensure the ultimate in comfort and traction. This win at the difficult Ridgewood Country Club marked the player’s sixth PGA Tour title and vaulted him to the top of the FedExCup Playoff standings.

“There is a great deal of money and prestige on the line for these playoff events and every player is making sure their equipment is dialed in,” says Harris MacNeill, President and CEO of CHAMP/MacNeill Engineering Worldwide. “Those advancing each week can be confident that their CHAMP spikes offer superior traction, stability and comfort to get them all the way to the Tour Championship.”

CHAMP spikes are strongly preferred by the world’s greatest players, but the technology is equally beneficial to amateurs of all skill levels who are looking to optimize performance.

The #1 Brand on Tour, CHAMP spikes have been used by nearly 75 percent of all major winners over the past 12 years and are available in an assortment of models, including the popular ScorpionSTINGER and Zarma.

Beyond its wide range of technically-advanced cleats, the company’s signature products include the Zarma FLYtee series and recently launched C Grips line. Designed with a strong emphasis on technical innovation and game-improving performance, the C Grips collection consists of five models. It has gained a loyal following among Tour players who recognize its superior feel, durability and performance characteristics.

For more information: www.champspikes.com, 1-800-OK-CHAMP.

Boccieri Golf’s Secret Grip Used by Top-five Finisher at Boeing Classic

Industry’s First Counterbalanced Grip Rapidly Adopted at all Levels

(SCOTTSDALE, AZ) – Boccieri Golf’s award-winning Secret Grip continues to build momentum on professional Tours worldwide, as a top-five finisher at the Boeing Classic relied on the counterbalanced grip in his driver, fairways woods, hybrids, irons and wedges to navigate the difficult TPC Snoqualmie Ridge in Snoqualmie, WA.

A Champion’s Tour rookie, the player began using the Secret Grip at the beginning of the season and has notched six top-10 finishes, including two in major championships. He joins a large and growing number of Tour players who are reaping the performance benefits associated with the Jack Nicklaus-endorsed product.

Designed to be installed quickly and affordably, the grips’ heavier weight (92 grams) raises the club’s balance point, promoting consistently crisp contact for greater control and distance.

“The benefits of our innovative counterbalanced technology speaks for itself, as we continue to see great results from players on all major professional Tours,” says Stephen Boccieri, President and CEO of Boccieri Golf. “These grips are not just beneficial for professionals, however, as players of all levels will experience are more repeatable and reliable swing, resulting in lower scores.”

For a limited time, the company is offering a no risk replacement guarantee on the full-swing versions of the Secret Grip. This bold, never-before-seen promotion puts the Secret Grip to the test by offering a trial period wherein customers can return the products if not completely satisfied and receive replacement grips of their choice at absolutely no cost. New models for 2014 include a specially-designed full-cord option, patriotic color updates – red, white, blue – and a thicker midsize option.

Not only endorsed by the legendary Nicklaus, who relied on counterbalanced clubs to capture 73 PGA Tour titles and 18 major championships, the Secret Grip also has a strong proponent in famed teacher Rick Smith. Consistently ranking among the world’s top-10 instructors, Smith appears in company marketing and integrates the benefits of the Secret Grip into curriculum at his renowned academies.

The Secret Grip range is currently available at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, PGA TOUR Superstore and www.SecretGrip.com.

For more information: www.boccierigolf.com, 888.788.8374.

Star Power at Hilton Head Island's Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

As some of golf’s greatest champions like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson can attest, there is no better time than autumn for world-class golf at the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort on Hilton Head Island

(HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C.) — Before they became two of golf’s greatest champions, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson made their mark at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, the venerable home of great golf on Hilton Head Island.

It was the the mid-1990s when Stanford’s rising star, Woods, hit what he referred to as one of his greatest shots ever en route to an eagle on the par-5 13th hole of Palmetto Dunes renowned Arthur Hills Course, which for years played host to the prestigious Golf World/Palmetto Dunes Collegiate Invitational.

A few years earlier, Arizona State’s Mickelson had driven the green at the dogleg-left, 380-yard, par-4 17th, a hole crisscrossed by a lagoon left of the fairway and short of the green.

Woods, on the other hand, made a quadruple bogey eight on 17 — one of the toughest golf holes on Hilton Head Island — in one of the few lowlights in his illustrious two-year college career.

Indeed, while Hilton Head Island is a four-season golf getaway for families and buddy trips alike, during the Fall months the resort overflows with reasons to play golf. And just to play, period.

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

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

Palmetto Dunes recently scored a rare three-peat as its George Fazio Course was named South Carolina’s “Course of the Year.” All three Palmetto Dunes courses have now received this prestigious honor.

The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course has been rated by readers of Golfweek magazine among the best courses in the Southeast. Its signature hole, the dramatic par-five 10th, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and is widely considered one of the most spectacular holes in the United States. One of only two oceanfront holes on Hilton Head Island, the course’s legendary 10th delights golfers of every skill level. In addition,  the Jones course is a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” for its commitment to providing a sanctuary for wildlife.

The George Fazio Course, the island’s only par-70 course, is regarded by many golfers as Hilton Head Island’s most challenging championship course. Designed by George Fazio, whose name it proudly bears, the Fazio Course has been ranked among America’s Top 100 Courses. The Fazio layout, which recently underwent a complete greens replacement, demands a combination of long play and precise golf shots. From its 432-yard 1st hole to its 462-yard 18th hole, the Fazio Course plays 6,873 yards from the championship tees.

The aforementioned Arthur Hills Course, where Tiger and Philly Mac honed their talents takes full advantage of the natural beauty of this South Carolina sea island. Named the 2009 Course of the Year by the South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association, this spectacular layout represents a careful blend of beauty and challenge. Stands of palmetto trees line the graceful fairway.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort caters to golfers of all level, having installed permanent junior tees on its Robert Trent Jones golf course, while the George Fazio course caters to juniors with markings of 150 yards or less. In addition, kids play free at the Robert Trent Jones Hilton Head golf course and the Arthur Hills golf course after 4 p.m. with an adult paying regular rate. There are free club fittings performed by Rod Thompson and golfers can play the latest demo clubs from TaylorMade, Nike, Titleist and Cleveland.

Hilton Head Island is world-renowned for its golf and its beaches, and Palmetto Dunes has both in abundance. It also has Doug Weaver, a former PGA TOUR professional and the highly respected director of instruction for Palmetto Dunes. Doug Weaver knows golf – and Hilton Head golf – as well as anyone and his free Monday golf exhibition every week is a popular attraction.

Palmetto Dunes proves a most popular group golf destination given the variety of its courses, accommodations, amenities and special programs ideal for the golf buddy getaways or corporate outings.  The Ryder Cup Group Golf Package is available for groups of 12 or more and includes three rounds of golf, breakfast, three nights stay, team shirts and more and starts at $589 per person.

The resort also offers a variety of other golf, accommodations and activities packages. Three-round stay-and-play packages start at $135 per person per night (quad occupancy) and drop to $108 for two rounds over the three nights.

The Monthly Golf Membership provides guests with a 30-day golf pass for all three championship golf courses, along with discounts at the golf pro shops, golf grills and more starting at $650 for a single and $1,080 for a couple. Hilton Head Outfitters offers month-long bike passes starting at $49.99, as well as weekly passes for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. The Monthly Stay & Sports Membership puts everything together by offering 30-days of accommodations, 30 days of unlimited golf, 30 days of bike rentals, two 2-hour kayak rentals and two hours of tennis court time daily. Rates start at $1,434/per person per month.

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