The Traveling Golfer Visits Tucson

Tucson and Casino del Sol Resort Featured on January Traveling Golfer Show

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa.) - When people think of golf in Arizona, the first locations that usually come to mind are Phoenix or Scottsdale. But, if they travel a bit farther south, they will discover a treasure of desert golf riches in Tucson.

That's exactly what the Traveling Golfer did, as part of a 24-man Ryder Cup-style trip to Tucson. It proved to be an eye-opening experience that sparked stories that will be re-told for years.

     

The base of operations was the spectacular Casino del Sol Resort, on the south side of Tucson. Great restaurants, a lively casino and large luxurious guest rooms made the stay memorable.

     

And then there was the golf, which exceeded all expectations. The new Notah Begay-designed Sewailo golf course, adjacent to Casino del Sol, is a stunning example of modern desert golf architecture. The Westin La Paloma and Arizona National golf courses provided stunning views from the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The recently renovated Randolph North golf course, which dates back to 1924, is an exciting example of classic design.

     

"For a lot of the people on the trip, this was their first visit to the Tucson area," reported Traveling Golfer host Tony Leodora. "They were blown away by the resort, the quality of the golf courses, the culture and the food. It was definitely a different golf experience for most."

     

The episode from Tucson begins airing January 1 and runs throughout the month on The Traveling Golfer Network ... including the new Golf Director Network (see full list of sites on www.travelinggolfervideo.com). It also will air on Monday, January 12 as part of the Press Box television show in Myrtle Beach, 5 to 7 p.m. on HTC Ch. 4, and as part of the Inside Golf television show on Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia and Comcast SportsNet in Baltimore/Washington at the end of January.

     

Responding to golfers' never-ending demands to learn more about interesting golf courses and golf resorts across the country and around the world, well-traveled host Tony Leodora created the Traveling Golfer so he could take viewers on video golf trips to some of the most exciting golf locations.

     

The Traveling Golfer appears as a series of monthly shows hosted by Leodora, who has 15 years of experience in televised golf shows. The featured destination stays on the website for one month, before being replaced by a new show. The old shows are archived on the home website, www.travelinggolfervideo.com.

     

A network of golf websites, of all sizes, has been created to host the show. The show has its own website -- www.travelinggolfervideo.com. The network of additional websites includes www.golftalklive.net, the website of the award-winning GolfTalk Live radio show that also is hosted by Leodora.  Affiliate websites that also air the show are www.thegolfdirector.com, www.myphillygolf.com, www.sportsnetwork.com, www.louguzzi.com, www.yetigolf.net, www.golfbuckscounty.com, www.phillygolffiles.com, www.playaroundgolf.net, www.awaywegogolf.com, mynegm.com, www.golfxpress72.com and americangolfer.blogspot.com.

OnCore Golf Announces Addition of Key Sales Representatives

(RELEASE) - OnCore Golf, leading innovators in golf ball technology, have brought on two sales representatives - Andy Hyjek and Jeff Mauricio. Both bring decades of experience to a team of 25 professional sales representatives working to expand OnCore’s reach into green grass pro-shops across the country

Jeff Mauricio has covered Northern Florida for over 20 years in various sales related capacities. He has sold Antigua, in addition to working as a Golf Professional at Ibis Golf and Country Club in West Palm Beach Florida. Jeff has also managed and grown sales in his role as assistant golf professional and shop manager of the PGA National Resort and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens.

Andy Hyjek attended the University of Tennessee and played on the golf team there. He got his start in sales by launching Taylor Made Golf Co. with Gary Adams, then went on to work for other great companies like FootJoy, Reebok-Greg  Norman, Yonex and Sun Mountain.

“Through my experience in selling innovative golf products from the start of my career, it has become easy for me to identify innovative technology and brands. That is what I clearly recognize in OnCore and I’m so thrilled to be part of the team,” commented Hyjek.

OnCore Golf Technology developed and patented the first USGA Conforming Hollow Core Golf Ball that aims to have golfers play a longer, straighter golf ball by integrating into its design, for the first time, the benefits of true perimeter weighting. This exclusive design feature allows the OnCore MA 1.0 hollow core golf ball to impart significant "Rifle Spin" when executing a golf shot and makes the golf ball to go longer and straighter, even on mishits. Co-founders Bret Blakely and Steve Coulton are dedicated to making golf more enjoyable to the masses. OnCore is based in Buffalo, NY and is sold in all 50 States and 21 Countries worldwide.

For more information go to: www.oncoregolf.com

Bobby Jones Unveils Spring Layering to Help Golfers Weather the Season's Changing Temperatures in Style

Bobby Jones Offers Sleek Spring Layering Options for Comfort and Style On-and-Off the Course

(Atlanta, GA) – Bobby Jones, the leading purveyor of authentic luxury golf products for more than a quarter century, today unveiled it’s Spring 2015 Collection of layering pieces ideal for providing comfort and style for cool Spring sunrises on the course that fade into balmy afternoons. Characterized by a stunning combination of ¼ zips, vests, sweaters, and V-necks, the Spring 2015 line of layering pieces provides much needed warmth to early morning golfers who are all too familiar with the need to combat the chill of early spring golf, while accommodating shedding of layers as the morning dew vanishes.

Featured in the Spring 2015 collection is the Bobby Jones RTJ2 ¼ Zip Pullover. Available in an expansive palate of spring colors, this popular water-shielding garment utilizes a polyester and spandex blend to reach peak performance when facing the various climates of spring. The pullover presents top of the line color detailing around the zippers and is obtainable in 10 classic colors (Black/Charcoal, Cambridge Red/Summer Navy, Cranberry/Summer Navy, Ember/Summer Navy, Key Lime/White, Marine/White, Purple/Summer Navy, Sapphire/White, Summer Navy/Cambridge Red, and White/Summer Navy).

The RTJ2 line becomes complete with the full zip vest and a full zip jacket. The full zip vest is available in 8 astonishing shades (Black, Cambridge Red, Ember, Key Lime, Marine, Sapphire, Summer Navy, White) while the RTJ2 full zip jacket is exclusively available in Black, Cambridge Red, Sapphire and Summer Navy.

Bobby Jones introduces its newest collection of staple items for any golf course regular in their Merino Sweater line. The sweaters are available in two styles, the Wind ¼ Zip Pullover and the Wind ¼ Zip Vest. Both garments are carefully woven with 100% extra fine Merino wool, which provides the wearer warmth without overheating, perfect for days when the temperature seems to change by the minute. These essentials are available in five classic colors - Flag Red, Light Blue, Heather Grey, Pale Pink, Summer Navy.

The Leaderboard ¼ Zip is available as a traditional long sleeved pull over or as a vest. Both options contain long staple 100% Peruvian Pima Cotton premium fiber interlock that provides warmth, durability, and added comfort to the Leaderboard Line. The Leaderboard collection is designed with rib panels at the side seams and underarm, tonal Bobby Jones Signature embroidery on back neck and a contrast zippered placket. The traditional pullover boasts 13 eye-catching tones (Black/Heather Grey, Cambridge Red/Heather Grey, Charcoal/Purple, Emerald/White, Grape/Green Grass, Green Grass/Grape, Heather Grey/Summer Navy, Lemon/White, Marine/White, Navy/White, Purple/Summer Navy, Sapphire/Summer Navy, and White/Heather Grey) and the vest stands out with 6 traditional tints (Black, Cambridge Red, Grape, Heather Grey, Navy and White) making it an indispensable piece for any gentleman’s wardrobe.

The Players V-neck Vest is also made of 100% Pima Cotton and is engineered for slightly warmer days on the course. This piece comes in an astounding 14 conspicuous colors (500 Purple, Black, Charcoal, Cambridge Red, Ember, Emerald, Grape, Green Grass, Lemon, Marine, Navy, Pale Pink, Raspberry, and Sapphire) allowing for golfers to select their own signature color.

In all, Bobby Jones offers a compilation of more than 18 different styles of layering pieces including unique zipper cardigan options and an Open Mock Neck made of a premium cotton cashmere blend.

“Our incredibly comfortable and versatile layering items are designed to seamlessly coordinate with a wide array of pieces in the Spring 2015 collection, giving men a sophisticated look that can easily transition throughout the round to accommodate changing temperatures, ” said Andy Bell, President/CEO of Jones Global Sports. “The Bobby Jones brand has long been praised for its distinguished sweaters, and this line certainly continues that tradition.”

For more than a quarter century, Bobby Jones has provided luxury men’s and women’s sportswear, including polo shirts, button downs, shorts, slacks and sweaters/knits to demanding consumers looking to exude a classy, cool confidence on and off the course.  The Bobby Jones brand can be found at the finest golf clubs, resorts and haberdasheries in the world.  For more information on the Bobby Jones brand, visit www.bobbyjones.com.

Year in Review(s) - 2014

We were very fortunate during 2014 to test and review quite a few products. We fell in love with the Cobra Bio Cell and Bio Cell+ drivers and dove in head first with all the features on the Leupold GX-4i rangefinder. Loudmouth Golf continued to impress with their over-the-top brand and CHASE54 added another level to the fashion-forward golfer.

One of our favorite companies - 3 Up Golf - expanded its offerings this year with the 2S14, joining the impressive 3F12. A few companies took personalization to new heights, as well. It has never been so easy to add a logo to a ball as it is with Golfballs.com and Teecil (part pencil/part tee) makes an excellent corporate gift for outings. Photo Ball Markers may be our favorite item to personalize, however. What could be better than looking at your favorite person's smile before making a putt?

There were far too many new products for us to list them all - from Daphne's Headcovers and Nexbelt to New Balance golf shoes and TruRoll Putters - but we enjoyed sharing our thoughts with fellow golfers.

Looking forward to 2015, we're already excited about the possibilities of GAME GOLF and curious to see where additional technology takes us.

Happy New Year!

Another Honor for Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course

Laredo’s Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course Cited as One of “The Most Beautiful Courses in Texas” by GOLF Magazine

(Laredo, TX) — The Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course, designed by world-renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., has captured yet another accolade.

GOLF Magazine has named The MAX as one of the 12 “Most Beautiful Golf Courses in Texas” that the public can play.  The MAX was rated seventh.  Five resort property courses and two TPC facilities were listed.

In writing about The MAX, the publication stated: “It’s a tribute to the Robert Trent Jones II firm that the design and the aesthetics mesh seamlessly.”  The par-3 15th hole was pictured and called a “crowd-pleaser” for its dramatic view of the Rio Grande.

Earlier this year GOLF Magazine published its ranking of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play,” along with a listing of the best courses in each state.  Of the 20 Texas public facilities cited, The MAX earned the 15th position.

Other significant rating awards for The MAX include Golf Digest’s designation as “One of the Best New Courses of 2013;” and Golfweek’s listing in 2013 and 2014 as “One of the Best Municipal Courses in the U.S.”

For additional information, visit www.themaxlaredo.com.

Little Linksters 'Best Pee-Wee Golf Swing in the Worl' Video Contest Celebrates 5th Year

Jack Nicklaus & Keegan Bradley Join Star-Studded Panel of Industry Judges

(Orlando, FL) - Kids from across the world get ready. Little Linksters, The Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development and The Littlest Golfer Inc. announced the fifth installment of their Annual Best “Pee Wee” Golf Swing in the World Video Contest. This is the five straight year Little Linksters, LLC, along with the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development (501c3) and The Littlest Golfer, Inc., have hosted the kid-centric contest for children 8 years old and under. Once again this year, some very heavy hitters from the golf world have joined the cause, including 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus and PGA Tour star Keegan Bradley.

The popular contest allows parents to upload a video to YouTube of their “Little Linksters” swing. Videos will be submitted over the following two months, and prizes will be awarded in four age groups—ranging from ages 3 to 8. Voting will be conducted by a panel of industry veterans and experts.

“In our first two years, we were very excited to have such a successful launch of what we wanted to continue to grow into an annual showcase of what very young golfers are capable of doing,” explained PGA Professional Brendon Elliott, founder of Little Linkster’s, LLC and Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development. “After last year, we knew we had something special, as almost 200 entries poured in from over 14 countries from around the world.

“We have been very honored to have such a recognized and esteemed celebrity panel of judges in our past contests, including Annika Sorenstam, Hank Haney, Kelly Sheehan, Lexi Thompson, Jim McLean, Win McMurry, Paula Creamer, Nicole Weller, Chuck Evans, Brittany Lincicome, Gary Player, Allen Wronowski, Frank Nobilo and Holly Sonders. This year might take the cake in terms of our judges!”

Elliott, who was a US Kids Golf Top 50 Kids Teacher (2010, ‘11 and ’12), a 2013 US Kids Golf Top 50 Master Kids Teacher, a four-time NFPGA Junior Golf Leader award winner (2011-14), as well as a two-time Top 50 Growth of the Game Teacher as named by the Golf Range Association, will lead the judging. He will be assisted by this year’s celebrity panel of judges, which is arguably one of the best assembled groups the contest has seen in its five years. Taking part in the 2014-2015 campaign:
Jack Nicklaus—Considered by many as the greatest that has ever played the game, Jack has set the standard in professional golf. His record 18 major championship wins continue to be the benchmark by which the best in the game measure their careers. Jack was inducted into the inaugural World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974, was named Sports Illustrated’s Individual Male Athlete of the 20th Century, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest honor bestowed on a U.S. civilian. He is a global businessman, acclaimed course designer, philanthropist and advocate for junior golf programs worldwide.
Keegan Bradley—In the short time Keegan has been a PGA Tour professional, he has quickly risen to the top of the golf world. In 2011, Keegan won the PGA Championship and was named Rookie of the Year. He is and will likely be a Ryder Cup and President Cup member for many years to come.
Mark Bradley, PGA—PGA professional at the Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club in Jackson, WY, Mark is the father of PGA Tour standout, Keegan Bradley.
Frank Nobilo—A proud native of New Zealand, Nobilo had a very successful playing career that included 15 worldwide wins. Nobilo was an International Team member for the 1994, ‘96 and ‘98 playings of The Presidents Cup. Today, Nobilo is a prominent Golf Channel personality, anchor and analyst on the all-golf network.
Allen Wronowski, PGA—The 37th President of the PGA of America, Allen now serves as Honorary President of the largest working sports organization in the world. Allen recently retired from Hillendale Country Club in Phoenix, MD, where he served for 35 years. Allen now serves as the Director of Golf Development & Resources for the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides scholarships to family members of service men and women who have died or were disabled while defending our country.
Nicole Weller—Multiple award-winning PGA and LPGA professional. Most recently, Nicole was named the 2013 PGA and LPGA National Youth Player Development award winner. Nicole is the Director of Instruction at the Landings Club in Savannah, GA. Nicole is the author of Stick to Sports “Let’s Play Golf,” as well as the company’s new Golf Flash Card Game.
Chuck Evans—Golf Magazine Top 100 Golf Instructor, Golf Digest Top Teacher in America, and the Face of Medicus Golf. Chuck is the author of the acclaimed golf book “How to Build Your Golf Swing.”

Parents are encouraged to participate in this contest by uploading a video (no longer than 60 sec) to YouTube of their “Little Linksters” swing. Once the video is posted to YouTube, parents must share that video link to the Contest Entry Form on the contest page on www.LittleLinksters.com. The contest entry period began on Nov. 7 and will run through Jan. 9, 2015. Contest registration, complete details and instructions will be available at http://littlelinksters.com/best-pee-wee-golf-swing-in-the-world/ on Friday.

Prize packages will be awarded in four age categories: Under 3; 3–4 year olds; 5–6 year olds; and 7–8 year olds. Each prize package is valued at more than $1,000 and includes items from some of the industry’s best children’s golf apparel, equipment and training aid companies:
The Littlest Golfer gift pack
* U.S. Kids Golf Set of UL Clubs and other accessories
* Cleveland/Srixon gift pack
* MVP Sports training aids package
* Golfer’s Footprint
* Almost Golf play anywhere pack
* Athlete Nation online lessons
* Little Linksters Membership pack
* Sticks to Sports “Lets Play Golf” Book & NEW “Match Play” Game
* Kwik Golf gift pack
* My Mini Golf gift pack
* Swinggait Swing Trainer
* Star Putter Training Aid
* Exemption & Tournament Entry for each age group winner to the 2015 FCG World Championship in San Diego

Winners will be announced at the 2015 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando at the Littlest Golfer Inc. booth.

The Little Linksters golf program in Central Florida is designed specifically for children ages 3 to 8 years old. The program is taught in a fun and interactive way, using both traditional and non-traditional instructional methods to ensure children’s first introduction to golf is FUN! The Little Linksters mascots Floppy, Birdie & Bogey are featured in the programs instructional coloring book and training aids.

The Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development, a 501c3 nonprofit in conjunction with AAU, is continuing to develop a national program that will enable teaching professionals from across the country to grow their business and the game of golf with a proven program that combines a child-friendly approach, a complete program curriculum, and uses items from some of the industry’s best training aid and junior golf equipment companies.

The Association’s newest project, called G.O.A.L.S. (Golf Outreach Advances Life Skills) is specifically aimed at introducing children ages 3-12+ with special needs to the game of golf. In doing so, children will learn valuable life skills that will help them throughout their life.

To help the nonprofit, Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development contact them at nonprofit@littlelinksters.com.

To donate go to: http://littlelinksters.com/little-linksters-associatio-for-junior-golf-development/

For more information about the “Best Pee-Wee Golf Swing in the World” Video Contest or the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development, visit www.littlelinksters.com or contact Brendon Elliott at Brendon@LittleLinksters.com or by phone at (321) 278-1612.

Team Titleist Offers Exclusive Sweepstakes

There’s still plenty of time for us to have a little more Team Titleist fun before we ring in the New Year.

In their exclusive end-of-the-year sweepstakes, Titleist has assembled another impressive Team Titleist prize pack that is overflowing with great gear including:
* One (1) Dozen Pro V1 or Pro V1x Golf Balls
* One (1) Team Titleist Performance Fabric Hat
* One (1) Limited Edition “I’d Rather Be Driving a Titleist” T-Shirt
* One (1) Set of Team Titleist Alignment Rods
* One (1) Team Titleist Bag Tag
* As a special bonus will also include one (1) visor or one (1) practice green pin flag autographed by a Titleist Brand Ambassador or Golf Ball Loyalist

And to celebrate 2014, they’re going to randomly select 14 winners.

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER: To enter the contest, add a comment to this blog post (click HERE, you must be logged in to leave a comment) with your golf ball model of choice (Pro V1 or Pro V1x) by December 28 at 11:59 pm EDT. Yes, it’s that easy.

SAMPLE ENTRY: Pro V1

MORE IMPORTANT DETAILS:
* They’ll randomly select 14 winners from all approved entries
* All approved and completed entries will be eligible for the random drawing. Incomplete entries will not be eligible
* Only one entry per person. If you send in multiple replies, you'll be disqualified from the contest. Don't forget to include all of the details outlined above or your entry will not be considered eligible.
* Keep in mind, all comments are moderated and it may take some time for your comment to appear.

Team Titleist will do its best to approve comments quickly but if you enter more than one reply, they have to disqualify you from the drawing (sorry to repeat this but they want to make sure it's clear).

United States only. No purchase necessary. View complete rules here: http://www.titleist.com/company/Community-Policy.aspx#sweepstakes

U.S. Recreational Golf Association Launches New Website Aimed at Making Golf More Fun

(Carlsbad, CA) - The U.S. Recreational Golf Association (USRGA), founded in May of 2014 by industry veterans, John B. Hoeflich and David L. Felker, announced the launch of a new version of its website www.usrga.org.

The new site displays a modern intuitive feel and updated content including membership information, golf etiquette, the USRGA Rules of Golf, blogs, equipment reviews, deals and promotions for members.

"Golfers are some of the most active participants in seeking information about their sport on the worldwide web," said USRGA founder David Felker. "Having a vibrant interactive website is a key to spreading the USRGA message to recreational and serious golfers worldwide. Our new website provides a forum for golfers to access simplified rules, special deals only available to our members, and information on equipment and ways to make the game more fun."

"There are 40 million golfers worldwide. A small percentage of those players have a handicap and play by the USGA and R&A Rules of Golf and most never play in high level competitions," states John B. Hoeflich, Executive Director. "For too long these golfers have lacked representation when it comes to determining the etiquette and rules for play and equipment that more accurately reflect the way they play the game. The USRGA is now that voice."

The USRGA appreciates any and all support from the golf community and wants to work in partnership with all organizations and companies to help grow the game of golf. Anyone interested in becoming a member of the USRGA should go to www.usrga.org for more details or to enroll directly. Those wanting to become a Friend or Sponsor of the USRGA are asked to contact info@usrga.org to request more information.

About the US Recreational Golf Association
Founded in 2014 the USRGA is an organization serving the needs of recreational golfers, golf courses and golf companies. Its focus is on working to grow recreational golf awareness and participation. The USRGA was established to create a community, forum and voice for recreational golfers who embody the original spirit of the game. The USRGA will endeavor to grow the game by making it more fun, faster pace, less expensive and less complicated for the majority of golfers who love the game but do not participate in competitions played under the USGA Rules of Golf. From its headquarters in Carlsbad, California the association provides information services and benefits for its members, developed and maintains simplified USRGA Etiquette and Rules of Golf and offers deals and promotions to enhance members' enjoyment of the game. Membership in the USRGA is free and golfers and non-golfers are urged to find out more about the USRGA at www.usrga.org or on Facebook (US Recreational Golf Association) or Twitter at @usrga.

Cure Putters Set to Introduce 5 New Models at 2015 PGA Merchandise Show

(Flagler Beach, FL) - Cure's RX Series Putters have been gaining a lot of attention from the Tour Players, and the company has recently been featured on both the Golf Channel and BACK9NETWORK.

Today, Cure Putters announced that they will be introducing five new putters in Booth #801 at the 2015 PGA Merchandise Show, scheduled for January 21-23, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida as well as participating in the Demo Day, Tuesday, January 20th at Orange County National GC.

"We've gained a lot of momentum over this last year and proven that our unique Higher MOI design combined with adjustability and customization will benefit anyone from high handicappers to TOUR players and everyone in between," said CEO of Cure Putters, Jim McCarthy, "With the feedback and lab testing we've done over the last 12 months, we've come out with five phenomenal new RX Series putters that will appeal to a wider range of players. We are redefining the category of High MOI putters with some smaller profile TOUR models, and more traditional designs - A lot of golfers think you have to use a big mallet or a heavy putter to get the increased stability and forgiveness. We've got a blade coming out with more MOI than the leading mallets!"

Cure RX Series putters all feature an Extremely High MOI design, which is very stable and offers incredible forgiveness for much greater accuracy and distance control, even on extreme mishits. The adjustable weighting system allows a far greater range of weight than any other putter on the market, allowing the golfer to find the perfect weight to suit their stroke and tempo. The Triangulation Alignment, invented by Deane Beman, helps you line up your putt like an arrow for deadly accuracy. With a higher center of gravity and lower loft, Cure Putters deliver a superior roll - getting the ball rolling sooner, helping it stay on the intended line. Cure Putters' innovative design takes several problematic variables out of the equation and offers incredible forgiveness and control, resulting in a tighter shot dispersion. Golfers of every skill level will putt more consistently, build confidence and achieve better results with a Cure RX Series putter.

For more information on Cure Putters visit www.cureputters.com.

Product Review: CHASE54

From left: Billie, Clooney and Grant from CHASE54

Gone are the days of ugly, ill-fitting golf shirts (at least we hope they’re gone). You remember the victorious 1999 US Ryder Cup team, right? Thankfully, companies like CHASE54 are combining fashion-forward appearance with state-of-the art fabrics to create incredible clothing that looks as great as it feels.

From left: Dylan and Luke

CHASE54 refers to 54 as the “perfect score.” The designers’ pursuit of perfection has led to myriad pieces as functional on the course as they are stylish off it. The “StaCrisp” pocket, brass collar stays and pewter buttons are just a few details that set this brand apart.

Some of the other technology CHASE54 boasts include:
* Dry Fuze - a patented moisture-wicking fabric keeping players cool and dry;
* Sorona by DuPont - a renewable sourced fiber made from corn, bringing color brilliance, stain and odor resistance, and stretch recovery;
* High Gauge – a micropolyester unlike any other. Finer yarns and a tighter weave equal featherweight top performance comfort; and
* Heat Retention – this actively absorbs energy from the sun, transforming it into heat to stay warm without heavy, thick insulation.

We’ve tried various pieces from the CHASE54 collection and have yet to find a flaw. The shirts (above from left: Billie, Clooney, Grant) and jackets (pictured: Dylan, Luke) are incredibly comfortable and meticulously detailed.

Far too often we find jackets that look great, but are constricting on the course. At CHASE54, appearance jibes perfectly with performance. And, considering the shirt you wear on a hot day can be just as important as the driver you tee off with, it’s nice to know Dry Fuze will keep the shirt flowing, as opposed to sticking to your sweaty skin and binding your swing.

Wearing CHASE54 on the golf course is tantamount to making the statement: I look great, feel great and will play great. Now you just need your confidence to coincide with lower scores.

Check out everything they have to offer at www.chase54.com.

SwingThought.com Tour to Open 2015 Season February 23-28 at Kinderlou Forest in Valdosta, Ga.

Former South Georgia Classic host Kinderlou Forest Golf Club to host SwingThought.com Tour 2015 Season Opening event with $140,000 Purse and Web.com Tour event exemption on the line

(Myrtle Beach, S.C.) – The SwingThought.com Tour announced today they will open their 2015 Pro Series season February 23rd through 28th at former Web.com Tour South Georgia Classic host Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta, Ga. The event will be the first of sixteen (16) $140,000 guaranteed purse Pro Series events conducted by the SwingThought.com Tour in 2015. In addition to the guaranteed purse, the SwingThought.com Tour will also be awarding an event exemption into a Web.com Tour event at the Valdosta event on a yet-to-be-determined competitive basis.

Created by Davis Love III Designs, the professional course opened in April 2004, serving as host to six PGA Nationwide Tour events and two PGA Web.com events in ten years. The South Georgia Classic was one of the largest events on the tour, with one of the richest purses on the PGA qualifying circuit. In an area known for flat terrain, the topography of Kinderlou Forest is unusual for the region. Undulating hills lend a unique element not found in southern Georgia, and the signature #4 with its deep, all natural ravine is one of the most challenging, yet beautiful, holes on the course. With five tee boxes on each hole, the course plays as short as 5,315 yards or as long as 7,781 yards. 

The SwingThought.com Tour is currently taking memberships for the upcoming 2015 Pro Series set to begin in late February and continuing through to early September. The Pro Series will consist of 16 72-hole events with $140,000 Guaranteed Purses and 6 54-hole Qualifier/Q Prep events. Fields are limited to 132 players with the top 55 and ties making each cut. Also a minimum of six (6) 2015 Web.com Tour "event" exemptions will be awarded throughout the 2015 Pro Series season on a yet-to-be determined competitive basis. To join the 2015 SwingThought.com Tour Pro Series, players need only contact the SwingThought.com Tour offices at 800-992-8748 and sign up (memberships are granted on a first come first serve basis, no ranking schools or qualifiers are needed). Membership is $1500 running through January 15th and will increase to $2,000 after that date.

SwingThought.com Tour alumni have won an amazing 16 Major Championships and include 2012 and 2014 Masters champion Bubba Watson, 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley, 2010 PGA TOUR Player of the Year and 2003 US Open Champion Jim Furyk, 2007 Masters Champion Zach Johnson, two-time U.S. Open Champion Lee Janzen, British Open and PGA Champion John Daly, and recent PGA Tour winners such as Robert Streb, Ben Martin, Kevin Streelman, Michael Thompson, Ted Potter Jr, Gary Woodland, Russell Henley, Mark Wilson, George McNeill, Scott Stallings, Scott Piercy, current FedExCup Points Leader Robert Streb, and many more. More recently 89 of the 150 players competing in the 2014 Web.com Tour Q School Final Stage this past week were past players on the SwingThought.com Tour.

For more information on the new SwingThought.com Tour, visit swingthought.com or call 800-992-8748.

PING Signs Brooke Henderson, Former World No. 1 Female Amateur

(PHOENIX) – Canadian golf sensation Brooke Henderson has signed an agreement to play PING equipment, PING Chairman & CEO John A. Solheim announced today.

Henderson, 17, will play the upcoming LPGA season on sponsor invites, with the goal to earn exempt status for the 2016 season. Among her 14 victories worldwide, Henderson won the individual title at the 2014 Women’s World Amateur Team Championship. She was runner-up at last summer’s U.S. Women’s Amateur and she earned a top 10 at the U.S. Women’s Open. In 2012, at age 14, she became the youngest person ever to win a professional tour event when she won on the Canadian Women’s Tour.

“Brooke has captured the attention of Canadian sports fans, who are very proud of her long list of accomplishments as she’s become the face of women’s golf in Canada,” Solheim said. “She’s been a force in the amateur ranks for years, she’s won pro tournaments in Canada, and she’s made a big splash in the U.S. at major events. We’re pleased she’ll be representing PING as she takes the next step in her golf career.”

Henderson, a native of Smiths Falls, Ontario (pop. 9,000), said that she’s competed at a consistently high level for years, thanks in part to an experienced PING team that fits her with technology suited to her individual game. “I have a comfort level with PING because they spend the time to understand my game, and their clubs are awesome. PING clubs make me longer, more consistent and give me the confidence I’ll need to succeed as a professional. I’m excited to be part of the PING team.”

As part of a multi-year agreement, Henderson will display PING logos on her hat, carry a PING staff bag and play 14 PING clubs. Financial terms and the length of the agreement were not disclosed.

GCAA Interviews K-State, SwingThought.com Tour Alumnus, FedExCup Points Leader Robert Streb

Streb was victorious earlier this fall at The McGladrey Classic and currently sits atop the FedExCup Standings

(Norman, Okla.) - The Golf Coaches Association of America, in cooperation with its long-time corporate partner, the SwingThought.com Tour, will feature a monthly Q&A with former collegians who are currently playing or have played on the SwingThought.com tour. Long considered the premier developmental tour in the United States, thousands of former college players have started their professional careers there. Hundreds of SwingThought.com Tour alumni have or continue to play on the PGA TOUR.

This month we spoke with Robert Streb, a SwingThought.com Tour alumnus currently playing on the PGA TOUR. Streb was victorious earlier this fall at The McGladrey Classic and currently sits atop the FedExCup Standings. He played collegiately at Kansas State University, where he had 12 career top-5 finishes and was named an All-American in 2009.

GCAA: How long have you been playing golf? At what point did you realize you wanted to play golf professionally?

Streb: I have been playing golf since I was about 2 or 3 years old, I used to tag along to the driving range with my dad when my mom was traveling for work. I started thinking about professional golf toward the end of high school and start of college but didn’t take the idea seriously until my last year of college. I had a good last season and it made feel like if I worked hard I might be able to reach the PGA TOUR.

GCAA: You played collegiately at Kansas State, where you were named an All-American. What about your time playing in college do you think has helped you the most as a professional?

Streb: Our coach Tim Norris played on the PGA TOUR for 9 years, which kind of fueled me to want to keep playing. I would generally ask questions about what the courses were like and what I needed to improve to succeed. Also, playing against some of the best in the country at conference every year also fueled the desire to improve.

GCAA: Is there something you know now that you wish you had known when playing collegiate golf?

Streb: How to better manage my game and my misses. I am still learning but feel like I have a much better grasp on it now.

GCAA: What about the college experience, outside of golf, helped prepare you for life as a professional golfer?

Streb: I met my wife there, which was a big bonus! I feel like she has helped my game improve. She has helped me with my temperament and getting away from the game when I am tired after a long stretch.

GCAA: You played on both the SwingThought.com Tour (NGA Tour) and Web.com Tour before playing on the PGA TOUR. What did the chances to play on those tours mean to you and how did they impact your game?

Streb: I was not sure exactly what I was getting into when I started on the SwingThought.com Tour. The Tour was a tremendous help to me because I realized how many great players are out there! In addition, I learned how to manage my schedule, travel, and how to practice. I knew that there was a pedigree of players that started on the SwingThought.com Tour and were succeeding at the highest level.

The Web.com Tour was a shorter stint but also a nice building block as well. I didn’t have great status but kind of hit this hot streak and before I knew it I was right in the thick of it to get my PGA TOUR card. On the Web.com Tour the scheduling and travel gets a little more complex with the luxury of equipment trailers and more time management.

GCAA: What are some of your best memories of your time on the SwingThought.com Tour?

Streb: It was really nice when my wife could come out and travel. I still have plenty of friends from when I played out there and I still keep in touch with the Tour staff. I also met some great people in the pro-ams that we are still good friends with. There is a lot of camaraderie out there, which is comforting on the road.

GCAA: Have you changed the way you prepare for a tournament at all between your time playing in college and now on the PGA TOUR?

Streb: Yes, it has changed quite a lot over the years. My warm up is still very similar but I feel like I practice differently and more efficiently. It takes a little time to figure out what works for you and how to prepare. I still hardly ever write anything in my yardage book and my caddie gives me a hard time about it, and rightfully so!

GCAA: You had your first PGA TOUR win earlier this year at The McGladrey Classic and are also sitting atop the FedExCup Standings. How does the early season success set you up for the remainder of the season?

Streb: I feel like the quick start has opened some really cool doors for 2015. I earned an exemption into the Masters (my first major), The PGA Championship, and the WGC at Firestone. Leading the FedExCup is something I didn’t really expect but every golfer is striving for. I am hoping to continue the good play and hope to be able to make a run at the Tour Championship in Atlanta.

GCAA: What are some of your interests outside of golf? Do you find that you need some time away from the course now and then?

Streb: I took about a 2 week break after the fall season and did not touch my clubs. I feel like everyone needs a break at some point to recharge their batteries. I like to follow Kansas State sports, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In my off time we hang out with our family and we are pretty busy preparing for our little girl due Feb. 9!

GCAA: What advice would you offer current collegiate golfers that would like to turn professional?

Streb: To ask as many questions as you can from current professionals, and try to tee it up in a couple tournaments that pros are competing in. Most importantly, enjoy the golf and don’t make it feel like work.

The SwingThought.com Tour is currently taking memberships for the upcoming 2015 Pro Series set to begin in late February and continuing through to early September. The Pro Series will consist of 16 72-hole events with $140,000 Guaranteed Purses and 6 54-hole Qualifier/Q Prep events. Fields are limited to 132 players with the top 55 and ties making each cut. Also a minimum of six (6) 2015 Web.com Tour "event" exemptions will be awarded throughout the 2015 Pro Series season on a yet-to-be determined competitive basis. To join the 2015 SwingThought.com Tour Pro Series, players need only contact the SwingThought.com Tour offices at 800-992-8748 and sign up (memberships are granted on a first come first serve basis, no ranking schools or qualifiers are needed). Membership is $1500 running through January 15th and will increase to $2,000 after that date.

SwingThought.com Tour alumni have won an amazing 16 Major Championships and include 2012 and 2014 Masters champion Bubba Watson, 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley, 2010 PGA TOUR Player of the Year and 2003 US Open Champion Jim Furyk, 2007 Masters Champion Zach Johnson, two-time U.S. Open Champion Lee Janzen, British Open and PGA Champion John Daly, and recent PGA Tour winners such as Robert Streb, Ben Martin, Kevin Streelman, Michael Thompson, Ted Potter Jr, Gary Woodland, Russell Henley, Mark Wilson, George McNeill, Scott Stallings, Scott Piercy, current FedExCup Points Leader Robert Streb, and many more.

For more information on the new SwingThought.com Tour visit swingthought.com or call 800-992-8748.

Bridgestone Golf Becomes Official Equipment Sponsor of GolfTalk Live Radio Show

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) - Bridgestone Golf, the number one ball fitter in golf, has announced their largest media partnership in Philadelphia, southern New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic regions - becoming the new equipment sponsor of GolfTalk Live, the award-winning weekly radio show based in Philadelphia.

With ambassadors on all major professional golf tours, Bridgestone has built a strong presence throughout the world.  Within a decade, Bridgestone Golf's output has been consistently increasing to meet the demand of the amateur golfer.
   
Bridgestone Golf has successfully moved all manufacturing of their premium golf ball lines to the United States.  This in turn has created jobs and offered golfers premium quality in golf ball selection.
   
"The growth of Bridgestone Golf in such a short period of time is one of the most impressive of any equipment company to date," exclaims show host, Tony Leodora.  "Their products continue to get better and I look forward to serving as their brand ambassador in the Delaware Valley and beyond."
   
Through Bridgestone's partnership with GolfTalk Live, products will be widely available at various events throughout the year and at live remote broadcasts of the show.  Bridgestone is also the official equipment sponsor of the GolfTalk Live Winter Invitational Series, the nine-hole better-ball of partners competition at Play-a-Round Golf in Malvern, PA.
   
"Bridgestone Golf is proud to partner with Tony Leodora and his team at the GolfTalk Live radio show," said Corey Consuegra, Director of Marketing - Bridgestone Golf.  "It is hard to find someone as widely respected and trusted as Tony is both by listeners and industry professionals, as well.  We know he is the right man to help educate Delaware Valley golfers and the rest of his listeners on the importance of choosing a golf ball that is right for their swing.  In addition, we love that we're partnering with a media outlet who truly values our company's efforts to bring manufacturing back to the U.S."
   
Bridgestone Golf, Inc., based in Covington, GA, manufactures and markets premium golf balls, clubs and accessories under the Bridgestone and Precept brand names. Bridgestone is represented on a world stage by a number of internationally famed golfers including Fred Couples, Paula Creamer, Matt Kuchar, Davis Love III, Brandt Snedeker, Hudson Swafford, Lee Trevino and Karrie Webb.  Bridgestone Golf, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bridgestone Sports Co. Ltd., whose headquarters are in Tokyo.  For more information visit www.bridgestonegolf.com.
   
Bridgestone Golf, Inc. is proud to be the #1 Ball-Fitter in Golf as the industry leader in live launch monitor fittings. Bridgestone provides three ways for golfers to find the ball that best fits their game: live fittings through the Bridgestone Ball Fitting Challenge, live online chats with ball fitting experts through its B-FIT service, and an easily accessible Online Ball Selection Guide that utilizes aggregate data from real world fittings to recommend the best ball for you. For more information on ball fitting including a complete schedule of Ball Fitting Challenge events visit www.bridgestonegolf.com.
   
The GolfTalk Live radio show, hosted by Tony Leodora, is the award-winning weekly radio show that was named No. 1 Golf Radio Show in America by the International Network of Golf at the PGA Merchandise Show in three of the last six years. The show airs 52 weeks a year from 7 to 8 a.m. each Saturday on WNTP 990-AM and on www.wntp.com.

The show also is syndicated. The first affiliate, added in 2012, was WOND 1400-AM in Atlantic City. It airs there at 3 p.m. every Saturday. The show took another leap forward when it was added to the daily lineup on www.TheGolfDirector.com. GolfTalk Live also can be heard any time following each show on its official website, www.golftalklive.net.

Premier Golf Announces Exclusive Partnership with Streamsong Resort

(DULUTH, GA) – Premier Golf – the licensed golf travel company of the PGA of America for more than two decades – announces today that it will become the preferred golf tour operator for all-inclusive travel packages to Streamsong Resort in Florida, one of the top-rated golf experiences in the country and home to two of Golfweek’s top resort courses in the U.S. (Source: Golfweek’s Best Resort Courses, 2015).

With a wealth of golf travel expertise to both domestic and international destinations such as St. Andrews, Bandon Dunes and Pinehurst, Premier Golf will leverage Streamsong’s critically-acclaimed golf courses, luxury accommodations and world-class resort amenities to provide guests with unrivaled itineraries.

Tucked away on 16,000 natural acres in central Florida, Streamsong features two award-winning courses – Streamsong Red, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw and recently named the best public golf course in the state of Florida by Golf Digest, and Streamsong Blue, designed by Renaissance Golf Design (Tom Doak). Since their grand opening in January 2013, both courses have garnered an impressive list of awards and accolades for their pure golf experience.

In addition to golf, resort guests can experience guided excursions on the property’s prolific bass fishing lakes, test their aim at the resort’s sporting clays facility; indulge in relaxing spa treatments at AcquaPietra; explore the natural surroundings and wildlife along a tranquil nature trail; and take a dip in the lakeside infinity pool. Guests and avid golf travelers will marvel at the resort’s luxurious rooms, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows and stunning views of the property’s lakes and surroundings, and a diverse mix of cuisine and fine dining at Streamsong’s four restaurants.

“We’re honored to be chosen by Streamsong for this exclusive partnership,” says Premier Golf President, Jim Ward. “The well-appointed accommodations, contemporary dining options and luxury resort amenities that complement Streamsong’s highly-acclaimed golf courses will deliver some of the most memorable travel packages for PGA professionals and their guests.”

A licensed partner of the PGA for 25 years, Premier Golf is a division of Georgia-based Travel Incorporated and provides all-encompassing travel services to some of the world’s greatest golf destinations. Travel packages include tee times, accommodations, ground transportation and more.

Premier Golf has also been the only official source for Ryder Cup travel and ticket packages since 1991 and has sent more than 25,000 fans to golf’s greatest event. The 2016 matches at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota will mark Premier Golf’s 13th consecutive Ryder Cup.

For additional package details, or to receive a free quote, visit www.premiergolf.com or call 866.260.4409.

Jerry Kelly Joins CHASE54 as TEAM54 Lead and Strategic Advisor

Partners Mean Business as They Form Groundbreaking Ambassadorship Model 

(RELEASE) - CHASE54, the evolving apparel brand named for the pursuit of the perfect score in golf, proudly announces its collaboration with PGA Tour Player Jerry Kelly.

Kelly, a fan favorite who is in the Top-30 all-time on the PGA Tour money list, will work directly with company executives to elevate the brand while wearing CHASE54 on Tour. Kelly is currently ranked 29thth in the FedEx Cup and has three PGA Tour Wins. In 2014, Kelly had two third-place finishes and four top-10 finishes.

“What a rare opportunity to integrate Jerry’s deep industry knowledge, business acumen and hands-on experience to move our fabric technology and style development forward,” says Lulu Faddis, Chief Designer and Creative Director of CHASE54. “We could not find a better fit, as Jerry exudes the brand perfectly…he is established with nearly 20 years on the PGA Tour, yet possesses a fresh energy and solid vision,” she adds.

“While CHASE54 has unstoppable momentum as a likeable new brand, our foundation is solid with 30 years of apparel manufacturing experience. By coining this new model for an ambassador partnership, together we are showing the world we mean business,” Faddis says.

“As soon as I tried on my first piece from CHASE54, I felt they had something incredibly unique,” Kelly says. “I love the fabrics and will help them innovate in the designs with my perspective,” he adds. “Nobody has the capacity to do what they do, since they create their own fabrics and own their manufacturing. This is going to be a dynamic partnership and the world should get ready, because they’re going to experience golf apparel like never before,” Kelly says.

The partnership commences on January 1 and the parties intend to work together for the long-term, engaging in a three-year agreement. Kelly will first appear wearing CHASE54 at the Sony Open in Hawaii on January 15 and has met with CHASE54 leadership to kickoff the partnership.

To learn more about the brand, visit www.chase54.com.

Product Review: Tour Edge Hot Launch

Golfers are always looking for the hot, new driver, but too often suffer from sticker shock when looking at the latest models. Wouldn’t it be great if there was an adjustable driver with all the bells and whistles at about half the price? Tour Edge thought so, and introduced the Hot Launch for only $199.99.

The Hot Launch is a titanium driver with adjustable loft options ranging from 8.5 to 12.5 degrees in one-degree increments. The adjustability gives players ultimate control in choosing the most efficient loft for optimal performance.

With a 460cc titanium, four-piece forged club head, the Hot Launch’s deep face design and variable face thickness technology provides maximum power from more contact points on the face. And weight positioned in the rear center of the sole of creates a deep center of gravity for easy launch and greater forgiveness on off-center hits. The internal sole design incorporates additional weight in the heel and toe to maximize stability and performance.

What does all this mean? In a nutshell, the Tour Edge Hot Launch offers premium performance at a budget-friendly price point. Extremely forgiving, this driver provides terrific distance and the freedom to hit low “stingers” or send the ball into orbit. All the benefits at half the cost ... the Hot Launch has raised the bar while lowering the price.

Learn more at www.touredge.com.

Robert Trent Jones II Renovations Earn Impressive Awards

Poppy Hills, SentryWorld Named To 2014 “Best” Lists By Major Publications

(Palo Alto, Calif.) – Two renovations by Robert Trent Jones II Golf Architects (RTJ II) – at Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach and SentryWorld Golf Club in Wisconsin – have been named to the “Best of the Year” lists by both GOLF and Golf Digest magazines.

Poppy Hills, originally built by Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1986, is named 2014 “Best Semi-Private Renovation” by GOLF in its January edition, which followed an honor for best Newly Remodeled Courses by Golf Digest in November. SentryWorld, an RTJ II original from 1989, also earned an honor for best Newly Remodeled Courses by Golf Digest in November.

Poppy Hills, owned and operated by the Northern California Golf Association, began its extensive, 13-month renovation in March 2013, reopening for public play on April 4, 2014. Each hole was returned to its natural elevation along the forest floor, doglegs and contours were softened, and all 18 greens were redesigned.

Jones introduced native waste areas that help reduce irrigated turf by nearly 25 percent. Drainage and irrigation were updated, and the entire course was sand capped, further promoting firm and fast conditions year-round.

Co-host of AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am from 1991 to 2009, Poppy Hills returned to tour competition only five months after reopening, hosting the 2014 Nature Valley First Tee Open, a Champions Tour event.

SentryWorld, which blazed the trail as Wisconsin’s first destination golf course, was renovated in 2013 by the RTJ II team. Upgrades, improvements, and changes to the 200-acre course included everything from its layout, greens, turfgrasses, and bunkers, to its irrigation system and water features.
Regarded as the premier parkland golf course in the state, SentryWorld is wall-to-wall turf, except for No. 16, its famous “flower hole.”

These are among the latest honors for RTJ II courses, which have appeared on all of the most respected “best of the best” rankings for the past five decades. A global leader and innovator in all aspects of golf course design, from master planning through design implementation, RTJ II serves as a trustee of the great tradition of golf course architecture. Its passion and commitment is to building environmentally responsible golf courses that are challenging, innovative, and enjoyable to play.

Eighty-nine SwingThought.com Tour players earn status at Web.com Tour Q School

Thirty past SwingThought.com Tour players finish T43 or better, earn exempt status

(Myrtle Beach, S.C.) - Eighty-nine past and present SwingThought.com Tour players competed in the 150 Final Stage field of Web.com Tour Q School earning at least conditional status on the premier developmental tour designated as the only path to the PGA TOUR. 30 of those 89 players finished tied for 43rd or better earning exempt status to start the season. The top 45 finishers and ties earn exempt status through the 2nd reorder which will take place after the 8th event of the 2015 season. Six of those 30 finished inside the top 10 earning exempt status through the 3rd reorder which will take place after the 12th vent of the 2015 season.

The six alums to finish T8 or better include past SwingThought.com Tour winners Rhein Gibson and Rick Cochran III, 2015 players Andrew Landry and Dustin Bray, and past members Stephan Jaeger and Matt Fast.

The 2nd tier running from 11th to 43rd included past and current SwingThought.com Tour members such as 2012 Golf Achievement Award Winner & Big Break Greenbrier Champion Mark Silvers (T14), 2010 Rookie of the Year Ryan Spears (T16), 2011 Player of the Year Jeff Corr (T21), 2014 SwingThought.com Tour Money Title runner-up Patton Kizzire (T21), 2014 Winter Series Money Leader Brian Richey (T35), 2014 Rookie of the Year Runner-up Richy Werenski (T43), and past winners Andy Winings (T11), Rob Oppenheim (T43) and Matt Atkins (T43) .

Those finishing after the 43 and ties earn conditional status and will have their numbers alternate with those players that finished 76th to 100th on the 2014 Web.com Tour Regular Season Money list and 2nd thru 5th on the PGA TOUR Canada, China, and Latinoamerica tours. The higher a player finished at the Q School Final, the more likely his number is called to compete. Fifty nine past and present SwingThought.com Tour players find themselves in this position, including 2014 SwingThought.com Tour winner J.C. Horne (T64), 2014 SwingThought.com Tour PLAYER OF THE YEAR Dominic Bozzelli (T64), 2013 Rookie of the Year runner-up Trent Whitekiller (T71), 2010 SwingThought.com Tour Money Title Winner Matt Harmon (T87), Palmer Cup team member and 2014 ST Tour member James White Jr. (T103), and past SwingThought.com Tour winners Ryan Sullivan (T54), Adam Long (T54), Chris Baker (T64), Jamie Sindelar (T64), Frank Adams (T71), Roberto Diaz (T71), Brent Witcher (T71), Chas Narramore (T79), Bubba Dickerson (T79), Chris Naegel (T87), Jason Millard (T94), Scott Parel (T94), Brian Maurer (T103), Josh Broadaway (T109), Vince India (T109), Lanto Griffin (T114), Tim O'Neal (T124), Mike Welch (T135), David Chung (T142), and Robert Rohanna (144).

The SwingThought.com Tour is currently taking memberships for the upcoming 2015 Pro Series set to begin in late February and continuing through to early September. The Pro Series will consist of 16 72-hole events with $140,000 Guaranteed Purses and 6 54-hole Qualifier/Q Prep events. Fields are limited to 132 players with the top 55 and ties making each cut. Also a minimum of six (6) 2015 Web.com Tour "event" exemptions will be awarded throughout the 2015 Pro Series season on a yet-to-be determined competitive basis. To join the 2015 SwingThought.com Tour Pro Series, players need only contact the SwingThought.com Tour offices at 800-992-8748 and sign up (memberships are granted on a first come first serve basis, no ranking schools or qualifiers are needed). Membership is $1500 running through January 15th and will increase to $2,000 after that date.

SwingThought.com Tour alumni have won an amazing 16 Major Championships and include 2012 and 2014 Masters champion Bubba Watson, 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley, 2010 PGA TOUR Player of the Year and 2003 US Open Champion Jim Furyk, 2007 Masters Champion Zach Johnson, two-time U.S. Open Champion Lee Janzen, British Open and PGA Champion John Daly, and recent PGA Tour winners such as Robert Streb, Ben Martin, Kevin Streelman, Michael Thompson, Ted Potter Jr, Gary Woodland, Russell Henley, Mark Wilson, George McNeill, Scott Stallings, Scott Piercy, current FedExCup Points Leader Robert Streb, and many more.

For more information on the new SwingThought.com Tour visit swingthought.com or call 800-992-8748.

Sunice Adds to Its Growing Team

(Montreal, Canada) - Conrad Tappert, president of Sunice Inc. is pleased to announce the arrival of Marc Gagnier, vice-president of marketing effective December 8. Mr. Gagnier will be responsible for all of the global marketing activities for the Sunice, AUR and Tommy Hilfiger Golf brands. He will be based in Montreal, Canada.

Gagnier (52) has had a long and successful marketing track record on the agency and client  side. Prior posts include vice-president of Convergence at Cossette and vice-president, managing director of Publicis Montreal.

"He is equally comfortable with traditional as with digital media," said Conrad Tappert. "Mr. Gagnier is well positioned to help drive our brands to the next level."

Under Mr. Gagnier's guidance, very successful international, national and regional campaigns were produced for leading brands such as Coca-Cola, McDonalds, The Home Depot, Molson, Nike, Ubisoft, Bombardier Aircraft and L'Oreal.

"Sunice products are fantastic because they permit sport enthusiasts to play outside in literally any weather without compromise on freedom of movement or style. My mission is to spread the word" said Gagnier with a smile and added. "It's a job made in heaven for a guy like me"

KemperSports to Manage Fountains Country Club

Premier Florida Private Club Remains the Centerpiece of Active Lifestyle Community

(NORTHBROOK, Ill.) – KemperSports announced today that it has been selected to manage Fountains Country Club in Lake Worth, Fla. KemperSports, who was initially engaged to perform a 360-degree operations assessment, will oversee all aspects of the Club’s extensive golf, tennis, fitness and dining amenities.

The Club, which serves as the centerpiece of an 865-acre gated community, includes three 18-hole golf courses (North, South and West Championship layouts) designed by notable golf course architects Bruce Devlin and Robert von Hagge, recently renovated 45,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, 12 Har-Tru tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The world-class fitness center offers nutrition counseling, private wellness instruction as well as a private class studio with aerobics, yoga and pilates instruction with massage and spa treatments available.

The golf courses have withstood many tests of golf while hosting qualifying events for the Honda Classic on the PGA Tour and the Allianz Championship on the Champions Tour. The course has also hosted numerous regional U.S. Open qualifiers.

“In today’s competitive market, it’s important for us to seek leadership from industry professionals,” said Board President Paul McGinn. “The Board and I are confident that KemperSports is the right partner to ensure the long-term health of our club.”

“We have enjoyed working with Fountains Country Club and are pleased to expand our relationship,” said KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner. “We look forward to enhancing the members’ experience at Fountains.”

Founded in 1968 on a former tomato farm, Fountains Country Club has grown in to one of the most active and vibrant private clubs in the region. In addition to the world-class golf, tennis and fitness facilities, the club offers three diverse dining experiences, including a formal dining room with views overlooking the golf course and the South Gate Grill with patio dining.

KemperSports now manages eight courses in the state of Florida. Fountains Country Club will also join KemperCollection – KemperSports’ growing portfolio of private clubs.

For more information on Fountains Country Club, visit www.fountainscc.com.

KemperSports Named Club Management Company of the Year by The BoardRoom Magazine

Honor Comes for Third Consecutive Year

(NORTHBROOK, Ill.) – KemperSports announced today that, for the third consecutive year, it has been named the Club Management Company of the Year by the BoardRoom magazine. The three consecutive years of being honored is unprecedented in the 16-year history of the magazine’s “Excellence in Achievement” awards.

“Each of the recipients of the BoardRoom magazine “Excellence in Achievement” awards are clearly leaders in their respective industries,” said John Fornaro, publisher of the BoardRoom magazine.

The honor comes during a year in which the organization added numerous private clubs to its portfolio, including Apple Ridge Country Club, Greeley Country Club, San Jose Country Club, The Fountains Country Club and La Gorce Country Club. The clubs all joined KemperCollection, KemperSports’ growing portfolio of private clubs.

In addition to the portfolio’s growth with private clubs, KemperSports continued on its long-standing mission to grow the game of golf. To commemorate the organizations commitment to player development, KemperSports launched a Player Development Program that introduced the game of golf in a fun and unintimidating manner to thousands of new golfers around the country.

“To be named as Club Management Company of the year for the third year in a row is a wonderful honor for our dedicated staff throughout the country who work tirelessly to deliver exceptional experiences for members and their guests,” said KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner.

KemperSports representatives will accept the award in March at the Club Manager’s Association of America (CMAA) Conference in San Antonio, Texas.

For more information on KemperSports, visit www.kempersports.com.

Ian Poulter Launches Social Media Fundraising Campaign

(RELEASE) - Ian Poulter and IJP Design are encouraging golf fans across the country to don their golf jumpers December 18th, donate to the charity Dreamflight and share images across social media using the hashtag #ChangingLives.

Poulter, who is a long-term supporter of Dreamflight and recently raised over £45,000 for the charity via an online auction of old equipment, launched the social media fundraising campaign earlier this week with his own photo from his home in Florida. Other IJP Design ambassadors including Phil Golding and Dreamflight Co-Founder Patricia Pearce MBE have followed suit.

On launching the campaign Poulter said, "If I can do anything with what I do in the game of golf to see these kids benefit, I’m happy to do more and more, to make sure we get more and more children to Orlando having the time of their lives."

IJP Design is asking golf fans to donate whatever they can afford this Christmas via the IJP Design JustGiving website and share a photo across social media with, “I’m wearing my @IJPDesign Xmas jumper & donating to @Dreamflight this Xmas. #ChangingLives”

Dreamflight is a UK charity that changes young lives by taking children with serious illnesses or a disability, without their parents, on the holiday of a lifetime to Orlando, Florida. Established in 1987, Dreamflight believes that fun and joy are just as important as medical research and equipment - especially for children who perhaps can't wait long enough for the breakthrough they need or whose illnesses and treatments have brought pain, distress and disruption to their lives.

To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/ijpdesign-jumper and find out more about Dreamflight at www.dreamflight.org.

For the latest news, competitions and special offers sign up to IJP Design’s Clubhouse: www.ijpdesign.com/clubhouse.

Auburn’s Jimmy Brandt Wins Golf Channel’s Big Break Myrtle Beach Reality Competition Series

Brandt Earns Exemption to the 2015 Valspar Championship and More Than $100,000 in Cash and Prizes

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Jimmy Brandt (Auburn, Ala.) defeated Toph Peterson (Logan, Utah) 3&1 in the championship match on Tuesday’s finale of Big Break Myrtle Beach, Golf Channel’s 22nd season of its competition franchise.

Contested at the Fazio Course at Barefoot Resort & Golf in North Myrtle Beach, S.C., the match was all square through nine holes, with Brandt winning three out of the first five holes on the back nine to take a commanding lead.  After Peterson failed to convert his par on 17, he conceded the hole to Brandt, who closed out the match 3&1.

“I can’t believe it, this is surreal right now,” said an emotional Brandt following the conclusion of the match.  “This is going to change my life.  Biggest win of my career and the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.”

As champion of Big Break Myrtle Beach, Brandt will receive an invitation to compete in the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship, March 12-15, 2015.  In addition, he will receive:
· $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 SwingThought.com 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.

As a result of winning challenge prizes during the course of the series, Brandt also earned:
· $7,500 cash, courtesy of Macanudo
· $2,500 in car rental credit courtesy of Avis Car Rental

Peterson earned the following challenge prizes during the course of the series.
· $10,000 cash, courtesy of Macanudo
· $2,500 shopping spree, courtesy of Dick’s Sporting Goods
· $500 in travel credit, courtesy of Travelocity
· $2,500 in Avis Car Rental credit

SERIES FORMAT: Produced in partnership with Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday and South Carolina Tourism and filmed at Barefoot Resort and Golf in Myrtle Beach, S.C. in June, Big Break Myrtle Beach featured a cast of 12 (six men and six women).  Contestants were eliminated each week, with the last player standing being awarded his or her Big Break.

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.  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 will be competing on the world’s top tours in 2015, including Tony Finau (PGA TOUR), Mallory Blackwelder, Katy Harris, Sadena Parks and Jackie Stoelting (LPGA Tour) and Rich Cochran, Hugo Leon, Justin Peters and Mark Silvers (Web.com Tour.)

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

SwingThought.com Tour Schedules $40k Event at PGA TOUR Latinoamerica Q School Host Site

Minimum $40,000 Purse on the line at premier Florida host, Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club

(Myrtle Beach, S.C) – For the second straight year Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club in Seibring, Fla. will play host to PGA TOUR Latinoamerica Q School, this year’s event to be contested January 20-23. However, just two weeks earlier on January 6-8, Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club will kick off their pro golf season by hosting the fourth $40,000 Guaranteed Purse event of the SwingThought.com Tour (formerly the NGA/Hooters Tour) Winter Series season making a great prep event for those wishing to earn status.

This is the first season in the 26 year history of the SwingThought.com Tour they have guaranteed purses for their Winter Series, making a nice lead-in for the upcoming 2015 SwingThought.com Tour’s main Pro Series which will feature 16 72-hole events with $140,000 Guaranteed Purses in each. While the SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series is regarded as the top developmental tour for winter play, the SwingThought.com Tour Pro Series is widely recognized as the No. 3 men’s professional golf tour in the United States having produced Major Champions (16 in all) such as Zach Johnson, Keegan Bradley, and Bubba Watson, and current FedExCup Points Standing Leader Robert Streb.

The purse for the Sun ‘N Lake event will be a guaranteed minimum $40,000 but can jump to $50,000 if the field reaches 80 players or more. Entry into the event is $800 for SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series members, $1,100 for nonmembers who wish to compete as professionals or $295 for those wishing to compete as an amateur. Players may still join the Winter Series to take advantage of the discount pricing. The event will be contested over 3 days with 54 holes of play. There will be a cut to the low 33% and ties after the completion of the first 36-holes. Players may still join the SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series for only $500. The top 60 members of the SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series will have the opportunity to compete in the Winter Series Tour Championship for a guaranteed $50,000 minimum purse (entry fee to be determined). The Sun ‘N Lake $40,000 minimum guaranteed purse event is the 4th of six to be played on the SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series this season on some of the top golf courses in the Orlando area including the Shingle Creek Golf Club, Disney Magnolia Course, Red Tail Golf Club, Metrowest, and Orange County National.

In addition to the three-day 54-hole event, Sun ‘N Lake will play host to a special one-day 18-hole SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series event January 5. This event is open to all SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series members, nonmembers, and amateurs. In addition to the first place prize check, the winner of the one day event will receive free entry into the 3 day guaranteed purse event. Altogether there are still 12 events remaining on this year’s SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series schedule making this season’s membership one of the most valuable of all time. For more information on the SwingThought.com Tour Winter Series, or to join, please visit www.SwingThought.com or call the SwingThought.com Tour offices at 800-992-8748.

The SwingThought.com Tour is also currently taking memberships for the upcoming 2015 Pro Series as well. Players may join by contacting the SwingThought.com Tour offices at 800-992-8748. The 2015 schedule consists of 16 72-hole $140,000 Guaranteed Purses events and 6 54-hole Q-School/Qualifier Prep events played primarily throughout the southeast and southwest running February through August. The sixteen (16) 72-hole events and over $2.5 million in purse money paid out will by far be the largest for a Pro Series in the United States for 2015!

SwingThought.com Tour alumni have won an amazing 16 Major Championships and include 2012 and 2014 Masters champion Bubba Watson, 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley, 2010 PGA TOUR Player of the Year and 2003 US Open Champion Jim Furyk, 2007 Masters Champion Zach Johnson, two-time U.S. Open Champion Lee Janzen, British Open and PGA Champion John Daly, and recent PGA Tour winners such as Michael Thompson, Ted Potter Jr, Gary Woodland, Russell Henley, Mark Wilson, George McNeill, Scott Stallings, Scott Piercy, current FedExCup Points Leader Robert Streb, and many more.

For more information on the new SwingThought.com Tour visit swingthought.com (new site coming soon), ngatour.com, or call 800-992-8748.

GolfTalk Live Headquartered at Mystic Dunes Resort During 2015 PGA Merchandise Show

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa.) - For the seventh year in a row, Mystic Dunes Resort in Orlando, FL will serve as the official headquarters of the award-winning GolfTalk Live radio show during the annual PGA Merchandise Show.

GolfTalk Live will be providing three weekends of coverage from the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.
   
Coverage begins with the PGA Merchandise Show preview, broadcast live from Mystic Dunes Resort, on Saturday, January 17. Mystic Dunes general manager Nick Dunleavy will serve as co-host to explain what the mammoth golf show means to the area in terms of business and exposure. In addition, show host Tony Leodora will have preview interviews with Tour Edge president Dave Glod, golf course architect Ron Garl and PGA professional Lou Guzzi. All will give their personal view of this year's show.
   
Also, beginning Tuesday, January 20, Leodora will write a Blog story - giving an inside look at what is happening at the PGA Merchandise Show. He will cover the Manufacturers' Preview Day at Legacy Club at Alaqua Lake, Demo Day and the three days of action with 1,000 exhibitors at the Convention Center.
   
On Saturday, January 24, 7 to 8 a.m., another GolfTalk Live show will come from Mystic Dunes. Scheduled interviews include celebrities from the PGA Show as well as executives who will report on the latest news about equipment, apparel and accessories.
   
On Saturday, January 31, one of the real highlights of the year takes place with the unveiling of "Tony's Top Ten," the top new products from this year's PGA Show.
   
GolfTalk Live airs 52 weeks a year, 7 to 8 a.m. Saturday on flagship station WNTP 990-AM in Philadelphia,  as well as 3 to 4 p.m. on WOND 1400-AM in South Jersey and worldwide on The Golf Director Network. It also airs live on www.wntp.com, as well as any time during the week, by going to the website, www.golftalklive.net.