Nunchuk Shafts Finish in Top 5 at Valero in San Antonio

Second Week in a Row that NUNCHUK Shafts were in Top 10

(RELEASE) - Last weekend's results continue the strong tour performance by players using NUNCHUK shafts ... in their Drivers, Fairway Woods, Hybrids, Irons and Wedges.

“PGA Tour players rely on NUNCHUK shafts to help them perform at the highest levels, when the pressure is on,” said Arnie Cunningham, NUNCHUK PGA Tour representative. “When you’re competing against the best players in the world, accuracy is critical.  Every week, PGA Tour players tell me that the accuracy and consistency of NUNCHUK shafts give them the confidence to just aim and swing - no matter how narrow the fairway or how small the green.”

“Since its introduction, we have seen NUNCHUK shafts winning at all levels – from the PGA Tour and Champions Tour to D-1 College tournaments to junior golf tournaments and local golf courses around the globe. Golfers are seeing how the stability and consistency of the NUNCHUK line of shafts can help bring the fun back to their golf game,” said Mike McCall, nVentix Golf CEO.

The revolutionary technology in the NUNCHUK’s groundbreaking design allows the exact same shaft to be used by professionals and amateurs, men and women, juniors and seniors – the original NUNCHUK in their drivers and fairway woods, the NUNCHUK 370 in their hybrids and NUNCHUK xi in their irons and wedges. “When you’ve got a NUNCHUK in your bag, you’re playing EXACTLY what the pros play,” McCall added.

Penske, Golf Channel Activate Branding Campaign: #MovingDay Presented by Penske

(READING, PA and ORLANDO, Fla.) – Penske, a leading transportation and logistics solutions provider, has teamed up with Golf Channel for a new #MovingDay Presented by Penske multi-platform branding campaign that encompasses Golf Channel’s coverage of “moving day” across the world’s professional golf schedule each week this season. The new collaboration further enhances Penske’s digital marketing strategy, which supports its full-service truck leasing, truck rental and logistics business units, and includes digital, social and on air enhancements across Golf Channel’s platforms.

In golf, “moving day” is a commonly used term to describe the penultimate day, traditionally Saturdays, of a four-day tournament. Golf competitors on “moving day” strive to move up the leaderboard in order to set themselves up for success in the tournament’s final round.

“Activating our brand across Golf Channel’s coverage of golf’s ‘moving day’ is an organic and effective way to raise the profile of Penske, because every day is moving day for people working in transportation and logistics,” said Sherry Sanger, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Penske Truck Leasing. “This activation aligns closely with our brand and helps us reach key business decision-makers following the dramatic storylines each Saturday in the world of golf.”

“Penske’s #MovingDay is a prime example of Golf Channel providing creative solutions for our partners that showcases their brand within our high-quality content across Golf Channel’s suite of targeted multi-media platforms,” said Tom Knapp, Senior Vice President, Golf Sponsorships, NBC Sports Group. “In addition to utilizing significant digital and social media tactics, a strategic decision was made to promote the platform on television to raise further awareness of #MovingDay, amplifying the campaign while showcasing our deep commitment to our partner’s media and marketing strategies.”

#MovingDay Presented by Penske will be integrated across Golf Channel’s platforms, including a feature segment each Saturday on Morning Drive, Golf Channel’s daily news and lifestyle morning show; a weekly video segment via Golf Channel Digital; streaming video and banner ads; and promotion via Golf Channel’s social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and NBCU’s Social Synch platform, amplifying this content to reach Penske’s desired customer base at scale.

Visit www.GoPenske.com to learn more.

The Greatest Day in Golf Returns - 18 Holes, 18 Celebrities and 18 Million in Cash at The Preserve 18

(New York, NY) – The Preserve at Boulder Hills, a sporting community, invites celebrities and amateur golfers alike back for The Preserve 18 as The Greatest Day in Golf returns to New England from September 15-16, 2016.  The Preserve 18 is a unique golf event that gives participants a chance at over $18 Million in cash and prizes, as each of the course’s 18 par 3 holes offers an award of $1 Million for a hole-in-one. This event pairs amateurs with eighteen celebrities, all of whom are icons within the sports, music, and entertainment industries.

“I am excited to host this tournament as one of our first national events and we are looking forward to sharing our vast facilities, which are approaching 1000 acres of nature and diverse activity offering with the world” said founder Mr. Paul Mihailides. “The majestic beauty of the area and the preservation of some of Rhode Island's most glorious resources are among my highest priorities. I am certain that our diverse facilities, like The Preserve 18 hole executive course, will collectively become the major economic engine of Rhode Island tourism, generating significant revenues and employing over 500 people.”

The first day of The Preserve 18 will include a practice round and the opportunity for each of the participants to explore the property and all the activities offered. These include fly-fishing, bird hunting, ATV riding, and zip-lining among others.  The opening night will include a $1 Million celebrity shootout, with each of the 18 celebrities vying for a chance to win $1 Million for his or her charity of choice.

Amateurs can also qualify for a one of three spots in The Preserve 18 through a series of initial qualifiers starting in May 2016. There is a $250 entry fee, which allows amateur golfers a complimentary practice, entry into the qualifier, BBQ lunch, tee gift, and most importantly, a chance to secure a spot into The Preserve 18.  Participants can qualify via a number of ways: by winning one of the two flights, scoring a hole-in-one on any of the 18 par 3 holes, or winning the 19th Hole Shootout, which takes each of the closest-to-the-hole winners to a sudden death finale. Registration for The Preserve 18 and its qualifiers can be done at www.ThePreserve18.com.

“We are thrilled to create a truly fun, exciting event, that will showcase our beautiful property and the many activities we have to offer here at The Preserve,” said PGA Tournament Director, Matt Hall.

The 18-hole executive par 3 golf course at The Preserve stretches over 3,200 yards and was designed by famed landscape architect Robert McNeil. With over 200 feet in elevation changes and rolling hills, the course offers game-raising challenges for professionals and novices alike, testing their skills rather than their distance.

For more information about The Preserve 18, visit www.ThePreserve18.com.

Titleist Thursdays Fittings, Trial Events Have Begun

Complimentary fitting and trial events run every Thursday for next two months

(RELEASE) - As of April 28, every Thursday for the next two months, Titleist product experts will be available at more than 80 facilities across the United States to conduct complimentary Titleist club fittings, offer product trial and answer questions.

Golfers of all skill levels and swing speeds who are interested in testing or being fit for the latest in Titleist golf club technology – including Titleist 915 metals, 816 hybrids, 716 irons, Vokey Design SM6 wedges and Titleist Concept Products – are encouraged to attend a "Titleist Thursdays" event.

There is no cost to attend Titleist Thursdays events or register for a fitting.

Walk-ups for product trial are also welcome.

For a complete list of participating facilities, or to reserve a fitting, golfers can visit the following link: http://www.titleist.com/thursdays

TITLEIST THURSDAYS 
• Get fit for Titleist 915 metals, 816 hybrids and 716 irons, Vokey Design SM6 wedges or Titleist Concept Products
• Try the entire Titleist golf club lineup
• Have your Titleist product questions answered
• Fittings conducted with Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls
• Data collected with TrackMan ball flight monitor
• Walk-ups for trial welcome
•  Find your nearest Titleist Thursdays facility or register for a fitting at www.titleist.com/thursdays.

Golf GameBook Launches New iOS Version of Its Digital Scorecard, Adding Vast Social Media Element

(ESPOO, FINLAND) - The third generation of Golf GameBook, the industry's most sophisticated digital scorecard and leading live scoring app for golfers, was launched today, expanding the Social Community aspects of the free iPhone app.

The new version of Golf GameBook makes it easier for golfers to share their experience with others, before, during and after their rounds.

"We believe Golf GameBook will change the way people think of social golf," said Mikko Rantanen, CEO of GameBook, Inc. "Golf is the most social of all sports, but previously the social aspects were limited to your foursome. Golf GameBook expands that social reach."

Golf GameBook, available for free on the App Store, offers the most fun, effective and social way to keep score in golf, allowing you to connect with other golfers and share live results, comments, photos and videos - no matter where you are, on and off the golf course. The easy-to-use digital scorecard has now grown into a fully equipped social media platform for golfers. It's like having a clubhouse in your pocket.

"Making golf more fun through new social elements and different game formats as well as fulfilling golfers' dreams has always been - and still is - the core of what we do," said Kalle Väinölä, who co-founded Golf GameBook 10 years ago with Mikko Manerus. "This new version of Golf GameBook is the next logical step in delivering that promise."

Golf GameBook was first released in 2010 as one of golf's first proprietary hand-held live scoring devices. As golf scoring began to enter the digital age, and mobile apps became more prevalent, Golf GameBook evolved into an app as well, integrating GPS and social interaction elements through the years. The brand new version, the 3rd generation Golf GameBook, is the culmination of all the upgrades.

PGA Tour player and 2009 Open champion Stewart Cink, a teammate of Rantanen's during his collegiate playing days at Georgia Tech, has been involved in the development and promotion of Golf GameBook since its inception.

"While competing on the PGA Tour I have seen a major increase in the social aspects of our sport," said Cink, who has over 1.1 million followers on Twitter himself. "Golfers on and off the course are constantly sharing their experiences through Social Media. I believe Golf GameBook's Social Community platform is the perfect vehicle for golfers worldwide to do just that."

Golf GameBook's constantly growing database already covers approximately 95 percent of all the golf courses in the world. The majority of these come with GPS coordinates, which allows you to check the distance, plan your next shot and measure your most impressive drives.

Keeping score on Golf GameBook is simple. Golfers enter their gross score on each hole and the app does the rest. It supports 25 different game formats, and provides scoring and live leaderboards for each of the formats being used by the group or tournament.

Golfers can make comments throughout the round, elevating "trash talk" to a new level. Even friends who aren't at the course can follow along, sharing their comments as well. Golfers can also post photos and videos throughout the round, so their community of followers can share in the experience.

Once your round is over, the information becomes part of your golf history, as it is automatically archived into your Golf GameBook profile. You can also use the statistics and other stored information to improve your game. And now the brand new GameBook feed allows you to share your thoughts, photos and videos as well as links to interesting golf topics to spark conversations.

"Studies have shown that the golf industry needs to bring more fun to our sport," said Rantanen. "Otherwise, participation will continue to decline. That is the chief goal of Golf GameBook. We want to enhance the golf experience, not only during the round but long after it is over. That's the main reason our Golf GameBook Social Community continues to grow."

For more information, visit www.GolfGameBook.com.

Cure Putters New and Improved RX Series making a Big Impact on Tour

(Jacksonville, FL) - Cure Putters, "The Fastest Growing Putter on the Champions Tour," has recently experienced a big surge on the PGA and LPGA Tours as well. Top Tour Professionals are seeing the benefits of Higher MOI and adjustable weighting in their flat stick.

Cure Putters made its PGA Tour debut in the Dell Match Play event in March and also had a putter in play at The Masters. Cure has recorded Top 10 Finishes in the last three consecutive events on the LPGA Tour and more and more players are choosing to put a Cure putter in their bag each week. This past weekend, Cure captured a 2nd Place Finish in the LB: Legends Division of the Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf Tournament at Big Cedar Lodge with an RX3 putter in play. Cure had several putters in play at the event and remains "The Fastest Growing Putter on the Champions Tour".

"We had a lot of Tour players put us into play last season," said Jim Barfield, VP of Tour Operations for Cure Putters, "and the players saw some very significant improvements in their putting stats. Our more traditional Cure Classic Series won a Golf Digest Hotlist award and was the clear favorite early on, but our new 2016 RX Series is really starting to catch fire. The improvements we've made to the look, sound and feel of the RX Series has allowed more players to feel comfortable with the putter and take full advantage of our technology. Based on the number of PGA, LPGA and Champions Tour Players who currently have a Cure Putter in their bag, we're expecting 2016 to be a very big season for us."

About Cure Putters
Cure Putters is a golf putter manufacturer based in Flagler Beach, Florida. Guided by the principle that "Form Follows Function", Cure Putters takes a no-nonsense, performance driven approach to putter design. Cure 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 wide range of weight adjustability, allowing the golfer to find the perfect weight to suit their stroke and tempo. With a higher center of gravity, lower loft and deeper face that impacts the ball at the equator, 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.

All Cure Putters are CNC milled from a solid block of T-6160 Aircraft Grade Aluminum and 100% Made and Assembled in the USA. For more information on Cure Putters, visit cureputters.com.

Michigan’s Meadowbrook CC Celebrates Centennial Anniversary with Major Golf Course Renovation

Distinguished Detroit Area Club Experiencing Dynamic Growth

(Northville, MI) — Meadowbrook Country Club, one of suburban Detroit’s legendary private golf clubs, has embarked on a major renovation of its historic 1916 course to mark the milestone occasion of its 100th anniversary. Originally designed by Scottish classic architect Willie Park, Jr., with a later contribution by the renowned Donald Ross, Meadowbrook selected Arizona-based Andy Staples to direct the extensive makeover of its vintage course. Staples, a rising star, won the assignment over several top “name” designers who interviewed for the opportunity.

Meadowbrook Country Club enjoys a rich history and the club has hosted a number of prestigious national and state tournaments, including the 1955 PGA Championship won by Doug Ford. The former PGA TOUR Motor City Open also was contested for four years at Meadowbrook with Ben Hogan winning the inaugural tournament in 1948. Chick Harbert, the club’s most famous head professional, won the 1954 PGA Championship title and played on two Ryder Cup teams, including the 1955 squad as captain.

“Andy Staples' keen sense of vision and passion for golf architecture is allowing for something special to take shape here at Meadowbrook,” said general manager Joseph D. Marini. “Willie Park Jr.'s parkland features, which have been prevalent throughout the property for the past 100 years, are being paid homage through Andy's design work. I feel the Centennial design he has created will solidify Meadowbrook as one of the premier courses in the region.” ​

Meadowbrook is closed for play in 2016 as architect Staples implements the phases of his extensive master plan. Renovation work includes the rebuilding of greens, tees, bunkers, and a few holes are being re-routed in order to improve the course’s playability for all skill levels. Some new tees also will be added. Importantly, significant water conservation will result from better drainage. Staples visited a number of Willie Park Jr.’s finest heathland designed courses in England and he plans to incorporate some Park influences by planting tall fescue in rough areas and introducing ingenious mounding. The newly renovated golf course is expected to re-open in the spring of 2017.

“What Meadowbrook has going here in Northville is absolutely fantastic,” says architect Andy Staples. “I'm honored to be a part of their storied history and witness the energy and enthusiasm the members have for the game of golf and their club. Our plan for the golf course reflects the DNA of what makes Meadowbrook so special. Not only does it take into account the needs of today’s members but it positions the club to be truly sustainable for the future. I'm excited to see it come to fruition.”

As the metropolitan Detroit area now undergoes a renaissance, Meadowbrook Country Club also is poised for a vibrant future entering its second century. With the reputation as an exceptionally family-friendly club that values tradition and camaraderie, Meadowbrook’s comprehensive golf course renovation has it positioned to rank as one of the region’s finest private club membership experiences.

Golfpac Travel Free Replay Package Provides Golf All Day on Several Orlando Courses

(ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL) – Is there anything better than a round of golf on one of the outstanding golf courses in Orlando? How about a FREE second round in the afternoon?

That’s what Golfpac Travel is offering in its Orlando Play All Day package.

Travel to Orlando between May 1 and December 31 this year and enjoy free replay rounds at select area clubs. The golf and travel experts at Golfpac will book your morning round, and your afternoon round is free based on day-of-play availability. Just check with the pro shop after you finish your first round and, as long as tee times are available, they will let you out for another round at no charge. For those of you who like to play 36 per day, this package provides great value.

Orlando-area golf clubs on Golfpac’s "Play All Day" program include Celebration, ChampionsGate CC, ChampionsGate GC, DeBary G&CC, Eagle Creek GC, Eagle Dunes GC, Falcon's Fire GC, Grand Cypress GC, Hawk's Landing GC, Hunter’s Creek GC, Indian River Preserve, International GC, Kings Ridge GC, Kissimmee GC, Legends of Clermont, MetroWest GC, Mystic Dunes GC, North Shore GC, Orange County National, Orange Lake Resort, Redtail GC, Ridgewood Lakes GC, Rio Pinar CC, Sanctuary Ridge GC, Stonegate At Solivita, Stoneybrook West GC, The Ritz-Carlton GC, Timacuan G&CC and Venetian Bay GC.

Some restrictions may apply. The program runs through Dec. 31, and dates can vary by course.

Golfpac Travel has partnered with Orlando-area hotels to create several Play All Day stay and play packages that vary in price, location and length of stay.

For more information, visit Golfpac Play All Day special or call toll free 888-848-8941.

Golf Channel Kicks off 2016 Web.com Tour Schedule with the United Leasing & Finance Championship

Trick Shot Artist and Big Break Alumnus Wesley Bryan Leading “The 25” Money List in 2016 with Two Victories, Including Last Week’s Win in Mexico

(ORLANDO, Fla.) - Golf Channel's coverage of the 2016 Web.com Tour season begins Thursday with four-round coverage of the United Leasing & Finance Championship in Newburgh, Ind., the first of 10 Web.com Tour events that will air on Golf Channel in 2016.

The United Leasing & Finance Championship will be headlined by trick shot artist and Big Break alumnus Wesley Bryan, who won his second Web.com Tour event last week in Mexico and is leading “The 25” money list, where the top-25 players at the end of the season earn PGA TOUR cards for the 2016-17 wraparound season. He secured his card for the 2016-17 season with last week’s victory (he will finish in the top-25), and with one more win, will automatically move up to the PGA TOUR this season. Bryan, who along with his brother George are well-known trick shot artists (Bryan Brothers), will be featured in Thursday’s telecast.

Golf Channel air times for the United Leasing & Finance Championship are Thursday and Friday, April 28-29, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ET (Live stream on Golf Live Extra from 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET), and Saturday-Sunday, April 30-May 1, from 7-9 p.m. ET (Live stream on Golf Live Extra from 4-6 p.m. ET).

Golf Channel’s Web.com Tour team for 2016 includes the return of Grant Boone as play-by-play host. Boone served as play-by-play host for Golf Channel’s live tournament coverage from 2000-2007, and has covered the world’s biggest sporting events for a variety of national networks. Joining Boone is a veteran Golf Channel team that includes 2002 PLAYERS champion Craig Perks as booth analyst and Steve Burkowski calling select holes from a tower position. Multiple Web.com Tour winner and Golf Channel analyst Tripp Isenhour will join Kay Cockerill reporting from the course.

The Web.com Tour is the main path to earning playing privileges on the PGA TOUR, with 50 PGA TOUR cards being awarded through qualifying play. Twenty-five cards will be issued to the top-25 leading money winners at the conclusion of the regular season, with an additional 25 cards on the line during the Web.com Tour Finals, a series of four events concluding with the Web.com Tour Championship.

2016 Golf Channel / Web.com Tour Schedule
April 28-May 1 - United Leasing & Finance Championship; Newburgh, Indiana
May 19-22 - BMW Charity Pro-Am; Greer, South Carolina
June 9-12 - Rust-Oleum Championship; Ivanhoe, Illinois
July 7-10 - LECOM Health Challenge; Findley Lake, New York
July 21-24 - Utah Championship; Lehi, Utah
Aug. 25-28 - WinCo Foods Portland Open; North Plains, Oregon
Sept. 8-11 - DAP Championship; Beachwood, Ohio
Sept. 15-18 - Albertsons Boise Open; Boise, Idaho
Sept. 22-25 - Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship; Columbus, Ohio
Oct. 6-9 - Web.com Tour Championship; Atlantic Beach, Florida

Canada’s No. 1 Golf Resort Course to Open Early

(JASPER) – Every avid golfer eagerly anticipates the opening day of their favorite course and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club announce that this day will come early. Golf season at the club is set to begin April 30.

This early start is exciting news for both the course and golfers.

“With the warm temperatures and springlike weather, the course hasn’t looked this good in years,” RJ Cloutier, Golf Course Superintendent says looking down the 18th fairway.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club is set to have one of the best seasons yet.

“Golfers have been anxious to get out on the green, so, mark your calendars for April 30th because golf season will be in full swing in no time,” Director of Golf, Gregg Lown says.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club offers full food and beverage services including licensed premises, patio seating with BBQ, beverage cart and a Halfway House. Four sets of tees, a Golf Shop featuring a selection of clothing collections from the most current and popular brands available along with a wide range of souvenir items to commemorate your visit. Rental equipment, complimentary parking and club storage are also offered.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club is looking forward to another great season on Canada’s No. 1 Golf Resort Course, ranked by SCOREGolf magazine for the past 20 years.

Book your tee times today at: http://www.fairmont.com/jasper/golf/.

Restoration of the Plantation Course Complete

Reynolds Collection’s Initial Design Features New Flexible Playing Route 

 
(GREENSBORO, GA.) – The Plantation Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee reopens May 1 after a multi-phase restoration project to the award-winning design by architect Bob Cupp. As a component of the comprehensive restoration a flexible short course routing has been added for golfers who want to carry only a few clubs and play only a few holes.

The first course built at Reynolds Lake Oconee, The Plantation Course opened in 1988 as part of the new community along the shoreline of Georgia's second largest lake. Now one of six world-class golf courses at Reynolds Lake Oconee, the Plantation Course has been refreshed from tee to green.

Part of the Plantation Course renovation is the new “Quick Six”—a unique six-hole “course within the course” that offers a variety of tee box options while utilizing the existing greens on hole Nos.1-2-3 and Nos. 7-8-9. None of the “Quick Six” holes play longer than 130 yards, so a “round” will take approximately 60 minutes.

“We designed Quick Six to be fast, easy, and fun” said Mark Lammi, vice president of golf at Reynolds Lake Oconee. “We want golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy this wonderful game, and sometimes, an hour or so is just perfect. With Quick Six, they can play a few holes or more, if they want, and still have time to enjoy all the other things Reynolds has to offer.”

The updates and enhancements to the Plantation Course include:
- Restoring all 18 greens to their original size and shape and replanting them with Penn A-1 bentgrass
- Reshaping all tee box areas and adding forward tee boxes to seven holes
- Removing 11 non-strategic bunkers while adding three new bunkers
- Reshaping all the bunkers and installing the Billy Bunker system—to improve drainage and prevent erosion—previously implemented at two other Reynolds courses, National and The Landing
- Enhancing overall growing conditions with selective pruning that increases air flow and sunlight
- Rebuilding cart paths
- Refreshing and reinforcing creek banks
- Installation of nearly two miles of subsurface drainage
- Enlarging the practice area
- Adding nearly 10,000 ornamental grasses and plants

“Bob Cupp worked closely with our Vice President of Agronomy, Lane Singleton, to restore the course to its original character,” Lammi said. “The goal was to reanimate this terrific design in a way that could be efficiently maintained and also to give our guests and members, and first timers, an entirely new way to experience the game.”

“At 6,200 yards from the member tees, the Plantation Course is one of the most player-friendly golf courses at Reynolds,” Lammi said. “It complements the balance of our golf collection with great aesthetic value, as well as shot value.”

Reynolds Lake Oconee is a vibrant community of nearly 4,000 multi-generational families and their friends who share a passion for golf and the outdoors, while savoring their time together. Located along one of the most treasured lakeside settings in the country, Reynolds Lake Oconee has established itself as a leader in sports and leisure activities on land and water, as well as a cultural and culinary center with a passion for music, the arts, and regional cuisine.

Besides golf, Reynolds Lake Oconee features four marinas, the Lake Club wellness center, and an award-winning tennis center. Reynolds also has developed into a popular vacation destination, anchored by the The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, a 251-room lakefront resort and spa, which was named a 2015 AAA Five Diamond Lodging and 2014 Forbes Four-Star resort.

For additional information, visit www.reynoldslakeoconee.com.

First International Women’s Golf Day Set for June 7

Same Day, Same Time, Around the World, Golf Facilities Welcome Women to Golf

(New York, NY) — The inaugural International Women’s Golf Day (WGD) will be celebrated around the world on Tuesday, June 7, 2016.

Between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., this first-of-its-kind, global-growth-of-the-game event will welcome women and girls to golf facilities where they’ll be introduced to the game in a welcoming and spirited environment. The event also encourages existing female golf enthusiasts to attend and tee it up for nine holes of late-afternoon scramble-format golf.

International Women’s Golf Day was started by a group of golf-industry veterans working together to deliver an introductory golf experience to women and girls around the world. The four-hour experience consists of two hours of golf and two hours of socializing. From 4 to 6 p.m. the participant will have the option of two hours of lessons or an on-course, 9-hole experience. From 6-8 p.m., attendees will participate in a celebratory gathering  that will feature socializing, networking, speakers, information on more ways to play golf, and the chance to make connections through the game.

Organizers highly recommend facilities register by the end of May to maximize promotional exposure. To register a golf facility (course, club, driving range, practice center, or retail outlet), click here: http://womensgolfday.com/event-registration/. To learn more about the Women’s Golf Day as an attendee, host facility, or corporate sponsor, visit: http://womensgolfday.com/about/ or contact Hollie at info@womensgolfday.com.

“We are inviting all golf facilities to participate in this event to engage and encourage women and girls to play golf,” said WGD Founder Elisa Gaudet. “Women’s Golf Day is an opportunity for golf facilities to host a women-welcoming event that works for women in their community as well as for their facility. There is no charge to the facility and lots of upside and community engagement for golf courses.”

In the United States, Women’s Golf Day participants include: Leadbetter Golf Academy at PGA National Resort & Spa (West Palm Beach, FL); St. John’s Golf Club (Elkton, FL); Palm Beach Par-3 Golf Course (Palm Beach, FL); Anchorage Golf Course (Anchorage, AK); Rhodes Ranch Golf Club (Las Vegas, NV); Greg Norman Champions Golf Academy (North Myrtle Beach, SC); Arrowhead Country Club (Glendale, AZ); Fox Meadow Country Club (Medina, OH); and PGA TOUR Superstore’s from coast to coast.

“This is a great event to illustrate that every day, really, is Women’s Golf Day,” said Jim Oliver, Chief Operating Officer for Dallas-based Arcis Golf, which manages and owns 70 courses and clubs in the U.S. “From coast to coast, our Arcis Golf facilities are committed to providing a positive experience that encourages women and girls to play golf. Developing a relationship with the game, and the people who play it can lead to a lifetime of enjoyment.”

Women’s Golf Day has been well received. The prestigious Waterville Golf Links (Kerry, Ireland) was the first course in Europe to sign on, followed by other courses in Ireland including Galway Bay Golf Resort (Renville), Twin Oaks Championship Course at Moyvalley Hotel & Golf Resort (Kildare), and the historic Balcarrick Golf Club (Dublin). Other participating courses around the globe include: Punta Borinquen (West Coast of Puerto Rico); Turtle Hill (Southampton, Bermuda); Atlantic Beach Golf Club (Cape Town, South Africa); and several courses in Canada and England.
For additional information access the web site at www.womensgolfday.com or find in cyberspace: FaceBook - Women's Golf Day, Twitter- @womensgolfday, Instagram- Womensgolfday, Twitter- @womensgolfday and YouTube- Womens Golf Day.

Grayhawk Golf Club to Host 2016, 2017 PGA Junior League Golf Championships

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) - The 2016 and 2017 PGA Junior League Golf Championships will be held at picturesque Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. This year’s Championship will be played Nov. 19-21, on the Raptor course.

Eight PGA Junior League Golf Teams that advance out of the Regional Championships in September and October will contend for the title. The 10-player teams, matching East vs. West regions, will compete in a two-person-scramble format, with coaches allowed to substitute players every three holes, so that all team members can participate.

A key initiative of PGA REACH, the PGA of America’s charitable arm, PGA Junior League Golf is a fun, social and inclusive opportunity for boys and girls ages 13 and under to learn and enjoy the game. Kids play on teams with friends and wear numbered jerseys, learning golf with professional instruction and direction from PGA and LPGA Teaching Professionals.

“The PGA of America is delighted to bring the PGA Junior League Golf Championship to the beautiful Southwest and Grayhawk Golf Club,” said PGA President Derek Sprague. “This is yet another example of how PGA Junior League Golf is furthering its mission to connect kids with the game in a fun and recreational environment.”

Grayhawk has been the site of the PGA Tour’s Frys.com Open, Andersen Consulting World Championship of Golf, Williams World Challenge (which benefited the Tiger Woods Foundation) and the Thunderbird International Junior. The Tom Fazio-designed Raptor course at Grayhawk offers a thrilling challenge that commands a player’s respect through a game of risk and reward. The par-72 course unfolds over the gentle hills and across shaded natural washes typical of this corner of the beautiful Sonoran Desert. Last Fall, Fazio collaborated with Dennis Wise on a redesign and relocation of Hole Nos. 15, 16 and 17.

“We’re honored to host the 2016 PGA Junior League Golf Championship,” said Grayhawk Golf Club PGA Director of Golf Joe Shershenovich. “Growing the game of golf is a goal that we all share, and this program accomplishes that objective under the enthusiastic guidance of PGA Professionals with a wealth of knowledge and experience to pass on to the next generation of golfers. Grayhawk has a long history of hosting competitive tournaments at the highest level of play. When they compete here in November, we look forward to providing each team with the same prestigious experience that the world’s best receive.”

In PGA Junior League Golf, kids play regular-season games from April to July. They then assemble into 10-player, all-star teams that compete in sub-regionals for a chance to earn a spot at one of eight regionals. In 2015, Team California captured the Championship in a scintillating playoff over Team Georgia.

Superstars Rory McIlroy, Rickie Fowler, Michelle Wie and Lexi Thompson serve as Official PGA Junior League Ambassadors.

PGA Junior League Golf is one of the game’s fastest growing programs, with teams in all 41 PGA Sections and 48 states. Last year, 30,000 boys and girls participated on 2,500 teams nationwide. Over the last two years, PGA Junior League Golf participation has grown by 233 percent.

For more information about PGA Junior League Golf, visit PGAJLG.com.

Dynamic Brands Hires Five New Sales Reps

New hires will cover Bag Boy Company, Devant Sport Towels, Datrek Golf and Burton

(Richmond, VA) – Dynamic Brands, the parent company for a portfolio of premium brand name golf companies in the golf and travel industries including Bag Boy, Burton, Datrek, Devant Sport Towels, IGOTCHA, Pivotal, Riksha and Sir Christopher Hatton brands, announced the addition of five new sales representatives throughout the country.

Mike Giarratano represents Dynamic Brands in Colorado, Wyoming and Utah. Giarratano comes with over 33 years of experience in the golf business; 2 years as an off course golf store owner, 8 years as a club professional and the last 23 years as an independent representative for various golf manufacturers. “Dynamic Brands has well-known brands that are established in both the green grass and off course channels of distribution. They came highly recommended and I look forward to representing the lines,” said Giarratano.

Steven Sinclair represents Dynamic Brands in the Florida Panhandle and Alabama. Sinclair started his career with Wilson Sporting Goods in 1981. Throughout the 1990's he worked for Dunlop/Maxfli Golf before becoming an independent golf representative. Sinclair also owned several golf cart dealerships in Alabama covering the Southeast for 11 years. Currently an independent golf representative, Dynamic Brands is Sinclair’s number one line.

Bart Turner represents Dynamic Brands in Kentucky. Turner has over 25 years of industry experience; 10 years as a PGA club professional and 15 years in golf sales. Kraig Kesner represents Dynamic Brands in Ohio. Kesner comes to Dynamic Brands with over 27 years of experience in the golf industry.

Todd Vangellow represents Dynamic Brands in upstate New York. Vangellow started in the golf industry in 1991, all in the New York state area. Last year he became an independent representative for a golf equipment company and was looking for complimentary lines to offer his accounts. “Dynamic Brands was a great fit for my accounts; they offer high quality products with excellent leadership, back office support and customer service. I look forward to growing my business with Dynamic Brands,” said Vangellow.

Giarratano, Kesner, Sinclair, Turner and Vangellow have joined a sales force of over 40 professional golf sales associates representing the Dynamic Brands golf lines from coast to coast. “Our new sales representatives have over 140 years of combined golf industry experience. They are well respected, top performers with established relationships throughout the country. We’re fortunate to have them aboard,” said Perry Hilbert, Sales Manager at Dynamic Brands.

For more information, visit www.dynamicbrands.com.

Getting to Know: Darius Hicks of Aveo Golf

American Golfer: Why did you decide to enter the golf apparel market?

Darius Hicks: After becoming a golfer and getting better and better I received an invitation to play in my first pro-am and quickly realized that finding something to wear was incredibly tough and the brands that I could find from time to time were inconsistent at best. I needed a solution that I could go back to time and time again with consistent results – Aveo was born.

AG: How did you decide on the Aveo name?

DH: The company name started as Aveo Mor which really has two different meanings.  The word Aveo, which has multiple meanings and the Internet proclaims that Aveo is difficult to precisely translate in Latin, can be translated to mean want or desire. It also has a loose translation meaning Vast (which I relate to large or big). While the word mor can be loosely translated into long (which I relate to tall). So Aveo Mor is loosely another way to say I wanted more … or a fancy way to say Big & Tall. Plus the letter A pops on alphabetical lists much earlier than Huge Man Golf Apparel.

AG: What’s your favorite thing about being in the golf business?

DH: I am such a lover of the sport, the best thing about being in the business is how close I am to the business and some of the people that I get the chance to meet and speak with. I do have to laugh because I’m so busy I don’t get to play all that often, but I really enjoying being near the sport.

AG: When did you start playing golf?

DH: I started playing golf at my best friend and business partner’s wedding. It was his second marriage and instead of the normal bachelor party we decided to just get out on the course. He and I were not golfers and the only club I could hit was my 7-iron, but man could I crush it.

AG: What’s your “dream foursome” (living or dead, golfer or non-golfer)?

DH: First, for me, it would be an afternoon fivesome because I’m playing too and I don’t want to lose a golfer.

o Barack Obama

o Tiger Woods

o My father (he passed several years ago and we started playing golf together maybe a year before I lost him)

o Sam Snead

AG: What course tops your “bucket list” to play?

DH: The Old Course, Pebble Beach, Mission Hills Golf Course – China, Augusta National, The Extreme 19th – The South African Par 3 that requires a helicopter to get to the tee box.

AG: What’s the future of Aveo Golf?

DH: Our future is bright. I’m excited to grow our base business and meet the needs of big and tall male golfers, but also plan to expand into women’s golf clothes and over all big and tall sports apparel.

For more information on Aveo Golf, visit www.aveogolf.com.

Golfweek Releases Annual Best Courses You Can Play Guide

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Golfweek, the most authentic and authoritative voice in the game, today released its 11th annual Golfweek's Best Courses You Can Play guide. This digest-sized, dedicated issue offers golfers a state-by-state breakdown of the nation's top courses, making it the perfect resource for avid players seeking an unforgettable round at an award-winning layout anywhere across the country.

"Turns out it's not just everyday golfers who make good use of the public layouts on this Best Courses You Can Play list," said Bradley S. Klein, national director of Golfweek's Best Courses rating program. "Many course designers also grew up on daily-fee and municipal golf, and in this year's guide we look at how the influence of accessible golf helped designers build courses for the general public without compromising architectural standards."

In addition to the full state-by-state list and Klein's story on premium public courses, the guide delivers a special feature from Golfweek's travel editor, Martin Kaufmann, who takes an in-depth look at Tennessee's No. 1 course, Sweetens Cove in South Pittsburg, Tennessee – delving in to how this unlikely contender made it to the top of the list.

To compile Golfweek's Best Courses You Can Play list, an experienced team of nearly 850 evaluators rated each public layout on the basis of 10 criteria, including routing, conditioning, variety and memorability of holes. The result is an average of scores that determine a course's overall ranking. The number of courses per state varies on this list based on the course supply, population and level of play in each state.

Visit Golfweek.com/GolfweeksBest to view the complete state-by-state list.

Golf In New Jersey: Is it Time to Rename the Garden State the Golf State?

The 2016 PGA Championship highlights a long list of great golf events and venues

 
(TRENTON, N.J.) – Can you feel it? Spring is in the air, which means a new golf season is just around the corner. And for the best golf—whether to watch it or play it—the place to be is New Jersey.

The world’s best men and women pros are coming to New Jersey this summer. The key moment will be the playing of the 2016 PGA Championship at famed Baltusrol Golf Club, in Springfield, July 25-31. One of golf’s four majors, the PGA Championship will bring the world’s top male players, including Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson, Bubba Watson, and last year’s winner Jason Day.

The USGA Museum

There’s no doubt the PGA Championship will be a sell-out, but limited tickets are still available from the PGA of America website.

Just a few weeks earlier, the stars of women’s golf will be in South Jersey for the ShopRite LPGA Classic Presented by Acer, being held June 3-5 at Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club in Galloway. It’s an unbeatable opportunity to see the finest female golfers in the world up close.

And there’s much more great golf to come in New Jersey. The women compete in our national championship in 2017 when the U.S. Women’s Open comes to Trump National Bedminster. Later that same year, the Presidents’ Cup—pitting the top American men against the best of the rest of the world (except Europe)—comes to Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City.

Liberty National also will be the site for The Barclays, one of the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup Playoffs, in 2019 and 2022. Can’t wait that long? In 2018, The Barclays will be held at Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, while in 2020 it returns to Plainfield Country Club in Plainfield.

But what if you want to play the best of New Jersey golf? The state has hundreds of outstanding public and daily-fee courses. You can find a list at http://www.visitnj.org/nj/attractions/golfing.

To help you choose where to tee it up, start with this list of the state’s top 10 from Golfweek magazine. Note that Atlantic City Country Club is number 75 on Golf Magazine’s current list of “the best courses you can play”:
- Atlantic City CC, Northfield
- Crystal Springs Resort (Ballyowen and Wild Turkey), Hamburg
- Twisted Dune, Egg Harbor Township
- Shore Gate, Ocean View
- Neshanic Valley, Neshanic Station
- Ballamor GC, Egg Harbor Township
- Architects GC, Lopatcong
- Stockton Seaview Hotel & GC, Absecon
- Sand Barrens GC, Swainton

But that’s not all there is to know about golf in New Jersey. For example …
- The consensus number-one course in the country (and on some lists, the world) is Pine Valley, located in Clementon
- Other top-ranked courses in the state, as rated by the leading golf publications, include both the - Upper and Lower Courses at Baltusrol, Plainfield Country Club, Somerset Hills Golf Club, Trump National, Ridgewood, Galloway National, Bayonne Golf Club, Hidden Creek, and Hollywood.
- The United States Golf Association (USGA), which oversees 13 national championships and helps set the rules of golf, is based in Far Hills (Somerset County) in the center of the state.
- The USGA Museum and Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History houses one of the world’s premier collections of golf artifacts and memorabilia. Its exhibits tell the 100-plus-year story of golf in America. The Museum is open to the public.
- Among the notable golfers associated with New Jersey have been Byron Nelson (who was an assistant professional at Ridgewood Country Club in the 1930s), George Jacobus (the first American-born professional, and former caddie, to become president of the PGA of America), Maureen Orcutt (two-time runner-up in the U.S. Women’s Open and 1966 Women’s Senior Amateur champion, who played out of White Beeches Golf and Country Club in Haworth), and PGA Tour winner Jim McGovern (who grew up in Oradell and is now head golf professional at White Beeches).

For more on golf in New Jersey, go to the state’s official tourism website, visitnj.org.

Crystal Springs Resort Opens for the Season; 2016 Golf Packages Available for Booking

Buddies, couples, girlfriends and families can experience a quality and quantity of golf unsurpassed in the Northeast

(Hamburg, NJ) – Crystal Springs Resort, nestled among the Hamburg Mountains in northwestern New Jersey, has opened for the season and its array of great 2016 golf packages are available for booking.

As one of the largest golf resorts in the world with six courses and 90-holes of golf, Crystal Springs is able to offer an unprecedented variety of golf vacation getaways for players of all abilities. The packaging opportunities combine the best in golf, lodging, dining and activities.

Experience two of the premier luxury hotels in the Northeast, Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel, 10 restaurants highlighted by the 4-star Restaurant Latour and its award-winning (Wine Spectator Grand Award) 135,000-bottle Wine Cellar, and two full-service award winning spas.
Golfers and families will also want to try out the innovative Golf Boards, Golf Bikes and Foot Golf, as well as take advantage of the state-of-the-art Minerals Sports Club and the unique tropical Biosphere Pool Complex with its underground aquarium, lush foliage and freeform nature pools.

Whether it's a buddy trip, couples retreat, girlfriend getaway or a fun family golf vacation, it will be a truly one-of-a-kind golf getaway experience at Crystal Springs. Below are some golf package options to select from:
Crystal Springs Golf & Stay Package
Experience our standard overnight stay and play golf package. Golfers can select lodging at the luxurious Grand Cascades Lodge or Minerals Hotel, and play 18-holes on one of our six spectacular golf courses, including Ballyowen - the No. 1 course in New Jersey. The package can also be built with two or three night stays with options for 18, 36, or up to 72 holes of golf. Package prices start at $124.50 per person based on double occupancy.

Luxury Golf Escape
For golfers looking to experience the finer things in life, Crystal Springs Resort offers the Luxury Golf Escape. This package combines the beautiful Grand Cascades Lodge, golf on either Ballyowen, Wild Turkey, Crystal Springs, Black Bear, or Cascades, along with a variety of luxury activities.
Following your golf experience, pair together a distinct collection of world-class amenities and activities including scotch tastings, wine tastings, spa experiences, 5-course dinners in the Grand Cru Room of the Wine Cellar, 4-star Restaurant Latour, and the Chef’s Garden. Other activities include skeet shooting, BBQ cookouts with bourbon tasting, and Golf Academy clinics with Trackman. Consult your reservation specialist to build the ultimate luxury golf escape.

Flex 8 Packages with Reward Membership
Golfers who are looking to experience all of the championship golf at Crystal Springs, but seek flexibility on when to play, now have the Flex 8 Packages as the perfect option. This package includes eight rounds of golf on Black Bear, Crystal Springs, Cascades or the Minerals courses. Top that with becoming a Rewards Member and get an additional three rounds of golf, preferred member pricing and discounts on merchandise and lodging. Flex 8 Packages start at $338 with a Rewards Membership starting at $145.

For more information on golf and stay packages and to view more package options, visit http://www.crystalgolfresort.com/golf/stay/ or call (844) 330-1835.

Award-Winning Sweetgrass Golf Club Set to Open 2016 Season on Friday, April 29

(HARRIS, Michigan) – Thanks to the relatively mild winter, Sweetgrass Golf Club is set to welcome 2016 season players on Friday, April 29.

Designed by Paul Albanese, Sweetgrass is an award-winning amenity of Island Resort and Casino.  The 18-hole championship course hosts an annual Symetra Tour “Road to the LPGA” event, in which the rising stars of women’s golf compete.  The Sweetgrass layout features historic rescued bridges and a unique collection of greens (Redan, Biarritz, Island and Shared greens).

For players who enjoy organized golf events, Sweetgrass has the following two primed for May:
May 9: 3-Man Men’s Senior Scramble, including prizes, age divisions and Mexican Buffet
May 16: 2-Woman Scramble, including prizes, Italian Buffet and more.

The resort’s popular golf package, the Perfect Foursome, starts at $230 per person in spring 2016 and includes a 2-night stay and three rounds of golf at Sweetgrass, TimberStone and Greywalls. All three are ranked among Golfweek’s “America’s Best Courses You Can Play By State.” Various other package combinations – as short as one-night stay/one round of golf and as long as four-night stay/three rounds of golf – are also available.

Sweetgrass provides a dedicated on-site golf concierge and VIP Room where groups enjoy comfortable living room-style seating, private dinners, gaming tables, beverage service, televisions and direct access to the golf course, pro shop and open fire pit.

Sweetgrass will have a companion course that's of a completely different design and feel. As yet unnamed, it is undergoing construction with a planned 2017 debut.

For more information, see www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com or call 906.723.2251.

BIG MAX Autofold FF Push Cart Receives Golf Digest Editors’ Choice Award

(TACOMA, WA) – BIG MAX GOLF – the No. 1 golf trolley brand in Europe and global pioneer of the three-wheeled push cart – is proud to announce that its newly introduced Autofold FF push cart has received the Golf Digest Editors’ Choice Award for Best Golf Cart 2016. The cart will become available on July 1 with preorders accepted now at us.bigmaxgolf.com.

The Autofold FF ($269.99) features a unique folding mechanism that allows all three wheels to open and fold automatically with a simple hand movement. This eliminates the need to separately secure small moving parts seen on traditional push carts. New fold-flat technology makes the cart easy to store and transport, leaving plenty of room for clubs and gear in the trunk of any car, locker or garage. The durable frame holds all sizes of golf bags while carefully positioned storage compartments fit multiple accessories.

“Push cart mechanisms have been known to be complicated and cumbersome. With the Autofold FF, BIG MAX set out to change that notion,” says Kelly Walker, CEO of BIG MAX USA. “Every time we demonstrate how easy the Autofold FF is to open and close, we see nothing but astonished expressions. We’re honored that Golf Digest has recognized a push cart that truly represents the best of innovation within the industry.”

In addition to the Autofold FF, BIG MAX GOLF offers a wide range of premium push carts that includes the award-winning Blade+, the popular IQ+, the Autofold+, and the innovative Z360 that features a 360 degree rotating front wheel. BIG MAX GOLF also offers a range of popular accessories that include storage nets, and cooler bags.

The success and longevity of the BIG MAX GOLF brand is rooted in its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. By seeking to promote healthy habits among walking golfers, BIG MAX GOLF has become a popular push cart brand across the United States. Select items are currently available at popular golf retailers throughout North America and at www.bigmaxusa.com.

More information: www.BigMaxUSA.com or 888-510-0560.

Troon Selected to Manage The Club at Crested Butte

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in golf course management, development and marketing has been selected to manage The Club at Crested Butte in Crested Butte, Colorado.

The Club at Crested Butte is tucked along the Elk Mountain range at 9,000 feet in elevation. This rolling links layout with ample fairways, strategic greens and 7,208 yards of challenging Robert Trent Jones II design, is the perfect design for every level of play. The entire Club sprawls over 160 acres among a beautiful setting of trout-filled lakes, aspens, mountains and pristine wilderness.

“The Club at Crested Butte is set in an unbelievably gorgeous location,” said Ryan Walls, senior vice president, operations, Troon. “It’s a fantastic four-season club with world-class golf in the spring, summer and fall, incredible skiing in the winter and spring and tremendous year-round health and fitness options. We’re excited to welcome The Club at Crested Butte to the Troon family.”

The Club at Crested Butte offers a full-calendar of activities and amenities for members. During the summer months, a member’s day may start with a refreshing workout in the Club’s Health and Wellness facility or on the hard court for a fun tennis lesson. Lunch would follow on The Brush Creek Grill’s beautiful outdoor patio, then off to an afternoon tee time on the award-winning Robert Trent Jones II designed golf course. After golf, members love to gather in The Tavern to swap stories and share a cold beverage with friends.

Conversely, a typical winter’s day at The Club at Crested Butte may begin with a few laps in the indoor pool, then it’s off to the slopes and the Club’s exclusive and premier winter facility, SlopeSide. Located at the foot of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, SlopeSide offers members ski-in/ski-out access and extensive on-mountain amenities, including lockers, a social lounge and a full service bar. After a long day on the slopes, members can relax and unwind back at the Club in the hot tub solarium under starry skies and in the moonlit shadows of the Elk Mountains.

“We knew in order to continue growing the Club experience for our members we needed an expert operator and marketer to support our experienced management team and I believe we have found the perfect partnership with Troon,” said Rick Divine, owner of The Club at Crested Butte. “They will help us accomplish our vision of creating an unparalleled member experience that is unique to our region and celebrates the Crested Butte lifestyle, while still maintaining the limited accessibility for the visitors to the area. We are excited about the future with Troon.”

For more information on the various types of golf and non-golf memberships available at The Club at Crested Butte, contact Membership Director Stephanie Sandstrom at (970)349-8610. The Club at Crested Butte also affords visitors an opportunity to experience golf as public tee times are available after noon each day. For more information on The Club at Crested Butte visit www.theclubatcrestedbutte.com or call (970)349-6127.

For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.

Bionic Gloves Renews EWGA National Sponsorship

Company Joins Celebration at 25th Anniversary & National Conference

(Louisville, KY) – Bionic Gloves, the leader in golf glove technology, continued its national sponsorship of the Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA) as the group celebrated its 25th anniversary this past weekend, April 22 – 24, in Colonial Williamsburg, VA. Now in its fifth year, the partnership provides EWGA members with a custom Bionic glove designed for the nuances of women’s hands. In addition, Bionic donates part of the proceeds from sales to support women in golf.

Bionic had representatives at the National Conference’s Friday Night Marketplace and Welcome Reception where they provided glove fittings and sold gloves - including the custom Bionic Performance Grip glove with a magnetic ball marker featuring the EWGA logo  - as well as offering exclusive giveaways to attendees. This year's conference attracted more than 300 women representing 74 Chapters from 34 states and Canada. The EWGA is the largest women-focused national amateur golf association in the country with chapters in more than 100 cities as well as international chapters in Bermuda, Canada and Italy.

“At Bionic, our team looks forward to the opportunity to connect with the members of EWGA each year at the conference and national competitive events. It’s a great chance for us to get feedback on our products from some of the game’s biggest advocates,” said Cheryl Fink, Director of Marketing and Operations for Bionic Gloves. “This year was no exception and it was an honor to be on hand to celebrate EWGA’s 25th Anniversary as they continue to push for positive change on key women’s golf issues.”

Bionic’s PerformanceGrip is the most feature-rich glove every made and took more than three years of design and testing to get ready for market. Designed by an orthopedic hand specialist, they are the only gloves with patented pad technology to give you more comfort, a better grip and two times more durability than a standard leather golf gloves.

"We greatly appreciate our long relationship with Bionic Gloves," says Pam Swensen, EWGA CEO.  "They are a valued national sponsor. Our members are avid golfers who look for quality and performance. You will find a Bionic glove in most of their golf bags."

The EWGA 25th Anniversary Celebration and Golf Experience featured a star studded line-up that included golf legend Nancy Lopez, PGA of America board officer Suzy Whaley and keynote speaker Dawn Hudson, chief marketing officer of the National Football League. The conference package included a commemorative gift bag, two rounds of golf, admission to historic Colonial Williamsburg, several dinners and other meals, parties and numerous fun activities. For more details and to register ewgaconference.com/home

For more details on the EWGA glove, or any of Bionic’s technologically advanced gloves, visit www.bionicgloves.com or call 1-800-524-6642.

Antigua Named Official Apparel Sponsor for JTBC Volunteers of America Texas Shootout

(PEORIA, AZ) - The Antigua Group, Inc.-one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of lifestyle apparel under the genuine Antigua brand has announced that it has been named the official apparel sponsor for the Volunteers of America Texas Shootout Presented by JTBC.

Volunteers of America, one of the nation's largest national providers of housing and programs for homeless veterans and their families, serves over 2 million of America's most vulnerable each year by helping those in need live healthy, safe, and productive lives.  Through hundreds of human service programs, including housing and health care,  Volunteers of America serves people in over 400 communities, assisting veterans, at-risk youth, the elderly, men and women returning from prison, homeless individuals or families, people with disabilities or those battling addiction.  Through their partnership with the LPGA, Volunteers of America is looking to continue to raise awareness for their organization and initiatives.

Antigua will provide apparel for those working as gallery control, marshals, scorers, rovers and Pro Am gifts for the amateur participants at this year's tournament, being held April 28 through May 1 at the Las Colinas Country Club in Irving, Texas.

Antigua will be well represented at this event with eleven Tour Staff players entered including Solheim Cuppers; Stacy Lewis, Gerina Piller, Lizette Salas and Brittany Lang all wearing their 2016 Antigua apparel.

"Being chosen as the official apparel sponsor for the Volunteers of America Texas Shootout is a great honor," said Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "This is the third year that this great event is being held and Antigua is proud to be a part of it."

Find Antigua on the web at: www.Antigua.com and ShopAntigua.com. Like Antigua on Facebook at: facebook.com/Antigua. Follow Antigua on Twitter at: twitter.com/AntiguaWear. See Antigua YouTube videos at: youtube.com/AntiguaWear.

Soomin Lee, 22, Notches First Career European Tour Victory

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Srixon and Cleveland Golf congratulate staffer Soomin Lee for winning the European Tour Shenzhen International on Monday at Genzon Golf Club in Shenzhen, China. The 22-year-old Lee, making only his sixth career European Tour start, finished with a 16-under-par total to win his first title by two shots in wire-to-wire fashion. Inclement weather forced the tournament into a Monday finish, and with five holes remaining, Lee seized control with a birdie on the par-3 16th hole followed by an eagle on the par-5 17th.

“I’m really happy and really excited,” said Lee, a native of South Korea. “This is really good for me and really good for my golf life.”

The victory already marks Lee’s third top-3 finish on the European Tour, as he notched a tie for third and a tie for second in his first two events. A €412,353 first-place prize in Shenzhen moves Lee to 10th place in the European Tour Race to Dubai Rankings. Lee also jumps to 75th in the Official World Golf Rankings.

Soomin Lee won the Shenzhen International with the following Srixon / Cleveland Golf equipment: a Srixon Z-STAR XV golf ball; a Srixon Z H45 hybrid (19°); Srixon Z 945 irons (3-PW); Cleveland Golf 588 RTX 2.0 Precision Forged wedges (52°, 58°); and, a Srixon golf glove and staff bag.

For additional information on Srixon / Cleveland products and staff players, visit the following sites: www.srixon.com and www.clevelandgolf.com.

Product Review: GAME GOLF

I admit it ... Reviewing golf products had become a bit stale for me. There is just so much I can write about the latest this or the new-and-improved that. Beyond the marketing hype, there wasn’t a huge difference in products I was testing. They were all good. None of them sucked. And each had its merits.

I was stuck in a golf blogger rut. Then came a game changer ... GAME GOLF. Man, this was different. The GAME GOLF system is so much more than the sum of its parts - shot tracker, stat analyzer, rangefinder, etc.

These little red tags on the butt end of my grips and nifty device attached to my belt provided a level of excitement I hadn’t experienced since taking my favorite set of irons out for their maiden voyage.

That said, I was hesitant. As someone who sees just about every press release from today’s biggest equipment manufacturers, I’ve grown a bit skeptical. The newest drivers don’t really add 7 yards to my tee shots and golf ball spin typically matters only at the highest levels of play. Average golfers care more about making decent contact, finding their ball and making decent contact again.

So why is GAME GOLF so exciting? And why can it make a difference in your game?

Picture this: You’ve split the fairway and you’re 158 yards from the pin, which is protected by water in front. To the best of your knowledge, your 8-iron travels 155 yards in the air - perfect, considering you’ve got to carry 150 yards to stay dry.

Now imagine this scenario: When you pure your 8-iron, it actually does go 155 yards, but your typical shot generally travels 148 yards. You’d better get on this one or your perfect drive may be followed by a lost ball and double bogie.

Enter GAME GOLF. Accurate yardage for each of your clubs is just one of the many statistics this innovative system provides.

Two views of No. 16 at Mayfield (OH) Country Club

GAME GOLF also provides scoring insight. For example, as a golfer with an 8.8 handicap index, I generally par about the same number of holes I bogey and mix in a few doubles with a few birdies from time to time. Thanks to the system, I know I only par about 30 percent of Par 3s, but do much better on Par 4s (56 percent) and Par 5s (63 percent).

As a kid, I always thought Par 3s were much easier. They’re shorter, for one, and you have a controlled lie and perfect stance. Unfortunately, there’s also little room for error.

There’s a look inside putting statistics. as well. What used to be a strength has become my greatest weakness ... or so I thought. While I 3-putt 3 percent of the time, 11 percent of the time I manage a 1-putt. If I can convert more green-side up-and-downs, those 1-putts will increase and the additional par saves will quickly lower my handicap.

Another look into why I basically bogie every other hole ... I only hit 54 percent of the fairways off the tee (15 percent missed to the left and 31 percent to the right), which leads to a disappointing 42 percent Greens in Regulation number. I also have a tendency to leave my approaches from beyond 100 yards short of the intended target 42 percent of the time.

My scrambling percentage (19 percent) is in direct relation to my putting statistics, too. Increase one and the other improves, which will lead to more par saves and lower my handicap.

Strokes vs. Scratch show where improvement can be made

Perhaps the most useful function of GAME GOLF is “Strokes vs. Scratch” and the accompanying “Smart Tips.” As the name suggests, Strokes vs. Scratch tells you how many strokes  you’re losing per round on the Strokes Gained methodology. As you can see by the image above, my approach game and short game compare favorably, but I’m losing more than 2.5 strokes off the tee and more than 5 putting! “Smart Tips” offers me advice on targeted improvement through practice.

Target your improvement

If you’re a stat geek, you’ll love GAME GOLF for the numbers alone. If you’re serious about improvement, this device will help you get to where you want to be. The cost ($299.99) is comparable to a new driver, which will most likely fall short of its yardage promise. I’d recommend spending that money on technology that will help your game - GAME GOLF.

Visit www.gamegolf.com for more information.

Editor’s Note: GAME GOLF may have the best customer service in the industry. E-mail or tweet support and the company is quick to respond.

Inside the Valero Texas Open with Titleist

(RELEASE) - It's a home game this week for Titleist Brand Ambassador Jimmy Walker (Pro V1x), as the PGA Tour heads to the Lone Star state for the Valero Texas Open. This year, the return to TPC San Antonio is even sweeter for Walker, as he comes into the event as the defending champion.

"It was just awesome, it really was," Walker said of his 11-under-par 277 winning performance in 2015. "It was a lot of fun. Lot of fond memories. You bring that into this week, too."

The 7,435 yard, par-72 Oaks Course again plays host and Walker welcomes the difficult challenge that the course presents.

"It's a tough track. It's got some tough tee shots, got some tough second shots and the greens can be a little tricky to read. They've got some South Texas grain in them. It can play with you a little bit."

Rain hit the area early in the week, but according to Walker, the greens on the Oaks Course show no signs of softening.

"I still think the greens are going to stay relatively firm. Even after the rain, they were still getting some nice bounces and release."

In past years the Valero has been scheduled in late March, instead of April. Walker mentioned that the schedule change has resulted in some subtle changes in the course conditions, most notably with regards to the rough.

"The rough isn't like it was last year," said Walker. "Last year it was overseeded. This year they didn't and the bermuda has come back but hasn't all grown yet. Driving the ball in the rough isn't going to be, I don't think, a big deal this week, just because it's not very long. You can get some pretty nice lies."

With thinner rough, it could be anyone's tournament this week.

But whether it's a grind or an old-fashioned shoot-out, Jimmy Walker is confident about his chances. He's enjoyed early-season wins in each of the past two seasons and feels that a return to the winners circle is right around the corner.

"You never know when you're going to get hot. I've gotten hot in the last two years right out of the gate. It may start this week, maybe next week or the week after. Who knows? (But) it's not far off. It's close."

TITLEIST BY THE NUMBERS

A total of 101 players in the field are trusting a Titleist Pro V1 or Pro V1x golf ball for their success at the Valero Texas Open, more than seven times the nearest competitor with 14 and more than all competitors combined.

Titleist was also the top choice among players in the hybrids category (32) as well as the irons category with 38 sets in play.

Vokey Design Wedges also topped the approach, sand and lob wedge (185) category.

Golf Digest Names 18 resorts with Nicklaus Design Golf ‘Best Golf Resorts in the Americas’

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

(RELEASE) - Broken into 13 regions, Golf Digest has selected the Best Golf Resorts in the Americas, naming 18 resorts that feature Nicklaus Design golf as an amenity. Many resorts selected in the list offer multiple courses, as well as fun, frolics and dazzling scenery. As a priority, accommodations must be comfortable, neither spartan nor gaudy, with service that doesn’t make visitors feel self-conscious.

California
La Quinta Resort & Club, La Quinta

Carolinas
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island, S.C.
Montage Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, S.C.
Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Florida
Hammock Beach, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, Palm Coast
PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Beach Gardens
Reunion, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, Orlando

Hawaii
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kailua-Kona
Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Lanai City

Mid-Atlantic
The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, W.Va.

Pacific Northwest
Pronghorn Resort, Bend, Ore.

Rockies/Great Plains
Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Mo.
The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colo.

Southeast
Reynolds Lake Oconee, Greensboro, Ga.

Caribbean/Bermuda
Cap Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

Mexico/Central America
Cabo Del Sol, Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
One & Only Palmilla, San Jose de Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Quivira Golf Club, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico

2016 World Long Drive Schedule, Format Announced

Local, Regional Qualifying Returns with “Callaway World Long Drive Qualifying Series,” Featuring Dedicated Long Drive Weekend Events

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Golf Channel has released the schedule for the 2016 World Long Drive season, which will culminate October 6-12 with the World Long Drive Championship at WinStar World Casino and Resort north of Dallas in Thackerville, Okla.

The announcement was made on Golf Channel’s Morning Drive program with 2015 World Long Drive champion Tim Burke, who won his second title in three years last October under the lights at WinStar.2016 marks the return of local and regional qualifying with the “Callaway World Long Drive Qualifying Series.”

Six dedicated “long drive weekend” qualifying events are currently scheduled to take place for Open and Senior Division competitors, beginning with the WinStar Long Drive Launch May 12-14. Days 1 and 2 of local qualifiers will be narrowed down to 48 Open Division and 16 Senior Division competitors advancing to the regional qualifier on Day 3. Each regional qualifier will then award three Open Division and two Senior Division competitors with a spot in the 2016 World Long Drive Championship.

Registration for the Callaway World Long Drive Qualifying Series is now open at www.longdrivers.com, and dates and locations include:
- WinStar Long Drive Launch (WinStar World Casino & Resort, Thackerville, Okla.)
Thursday, May 12: Day 1 Local Qualifiers (Day 1 Senior Regional)
Friday, May 13: Day 2 Local Qualifiers (Day 2 Senior Regional)
Saturday, May 14: Open Division Regional Qualifier
- Bull’s Classic (Tillery Tradition Country Club, Mt. Gilead, N.C.)
Friday, May 20: Bulls’s Classic (Tour Event)
Saturday, May 21: Day 1 Local Qualifiers (Day 1 Senior Regional)
Sunday, May 22: Day 2 Local Qualifiers (Day 2 Senior Regional)
Monday, May 23: Open Division Regional Qualifier
- Tennessee Shootout (Graysburg Hills GC, Greenville, Tenn)
Wednesday June 8: (Tour Event)
Thursday June 9: (Tour Event)
Friday June 10: (Tour Event)
- Bluff City Shootout (Golf and Games Family Park, Memphis, Tenn.)
Thursday, June 23: Day 1 Local Qualifiers (Day 1 Senior Regional)
Friday, June 24: Day 2 Local Qualifiers (Day 2 Senior Regional)
Saturday, June 25: Bluff City Shootout (Tour Event)
Sunday, June 26: Open Division Regional Qualifier
- Rockwell Blast (Lakeside Golf Course, West Bountiful, Utah)
Thursday, July 28: Day 1 Local Qualifiers (Day 1 Senior Regional)
Friday, July 29: Day 2 Local Qualifiers (Day 2 Senior Regional)
Saturday, July 30: Rockwell Blast (Tour Event)
Sunday, July 31: Open Division Regional Qualifier
- Mile High Shootout (Park Hill Golf Club, Denver, Colo.)
Thursday, August 25: Day 1 Local Qualifiers (Day 1 Senior Regional)
Friday, August 26: Day 2 Local Qualifiers (Day 2 Senior Regional)
Saturday, August 27: Open Division Regional Qualifier
Sunday, August 28: Mile High Shootout (Tour Event)

Changes to competition in 2016
New to the format in 2016 is that local and regional qualifying sets will consist of eight (8) drives within a 3-minute time limit, whereas in previous years the sets consisted of six (6) drives within a 2-minute 45 second time limit.

World Long Drive Championship Field
The Open Division will consist of 80 players competing in a match play bracket. The field will be made up of exempt competitors, regional qualifiers, tour event winners, international representatives, and “Last Chance Qualifiers.” The Senior Division will be made up of a field of 48 competitors, also contested in a match play bracket that consists of exempt competitors, regional qualifiers and international representatives.

Last Chance Qualifying
Last Chance Qualifying will take place prior to the start of the World Long Drive Championship (**date TBD**) with a final opportunity for those competitors who have yet to qualify.
For more information, visit: http://www.longdrivers.com/news/2016-world-long-drive-season