Product Review: Zero Friction ZFT Maxx Tees

American Golfer ran a poll on +Google asking what type of tee golfers used the most. The majority of those who answered prefer wood (55 percent), which wasn’t surprising - after all, wooden tees are cheap, plentiful and have been around for generations.

What was surprising, however, was that 28 percent of golfers didn’t care. Using whatever they pull out of their bag suited them just fine. Golf is an expensive game, but if something inexpensive (like a tee) could improve play, I would think more people would be interested in putting the right one in their bags.

If you’re reading this and keeping score, you know there are 17 percent of responders unaccounted for. Those are the golfers who preferred “performance” tees. I’ve fallen into this group for the last decade, which is why I jumped at the opportunity to take the new Zero Friction ZFT Maxx tees for a test drive.

These 3-prong tees greatly reduce contact area with the golf ball (by 66 percent). The theory behind that - less contact with the ball leads to longer, straighter drives. Who wouldn’t want that? The ball settles inside a traditional tee - adding the possibility of unwanted side spin. Problem solved with these 3-prong beauties.

The ZFT Maxx tees are larger, thicker and more durable than their predecessors. There’s also a height-striping system, which is perfect for those who want consistent placement of their ball.

While they come in both 2 3/4” and 3 1/4”, I’m a fan of the longer. You can always push it in the ground a bit more to lower, but you can’t pull the shorter tee out, obviously. Still ... It’s nice to have options.

Speaking of shorter options ... My sample packs each included a stubby hybrid tee - awesome for par 3s.

For golfers with an environmentally friendly mindset, the ZFT Maxx tees are made of bio-composite and recycled materials. Not only will you save some trees, but you’ll also be kinder/gentler on the mower blades for the maintenance staff.

I hate to contradict myself, but the only negative I can see with the ZFT Maxx is price. Golf Galaxy sells a 24-pack for $8.99. Compare that to a 75-pack of wooded tees for $6.99 and the budget-conscience may have second thoughts. Again, take into consideration the durability of synthetic tees, as well as the added distance and accuracy. Can you put a price on those?

On a related note, because the tees are slightly flexible, there’s a chance they’ll slingshot in front of or behind you. While this adds to the durability, keep that in mind if you’re worried about losing one.

Learn more about the ZFT Maxx or other 3- or 4-prong tees the company offers at www.zerofriction.com.

The Traveling Golfer in Quivira Los Cabos

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa.) - The Traveling Golfer television show is dedicated to going to the "end of the earth" to provide golf and lifestyle programming for its viewers. In the October episode of the Traveling Golfer, host Tony Leodora literally stands on a piece of land at the end of the earth during shooting of the show from Quivira.
   

Quivira is a golf, luxury hotel and residential community at the southernmost point of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. It is the latest addition to the rich golf landscape in Los Cabos and provides a stunning backdrop for this month's show.
   
The Baja Peninsula of Mexico is the longest peninsula in the world. Longer than Italy.
   
It is a collection of mountains, desert, cactus and wide beaches that stretches 747 miles from top to bottom. To the east is the Sea of Cortez. To the west, the Pacific Ocean. And to the south there is not another piece of land until Antarctica comes into sight.
   
The first European travelers to reach the Baja were adventurers - Hernan Cortes and Francisco de Ulloa. They were in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. They never found them.
   
But gold finally was found on the Baja Peninsula - in particular in the Los Cabos region - in 2014. It came in the form of the latest creation of the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus.
   
The spectacular Nicklaus-designed layout at Quivira is now the gold standard for golf in a region that boasts 14 golf courses.
   
In producing the latest Traveling Golfer show, many hours of footage were shot on the rugged windswept slopes of Quivira ... as well as in the colorful surroundings of the Los Cabos region. The show is a mixture of dramatic golf and luxurious Baja lifestyle, the kind of image that leaves the viewer longing to slip away to this exotic world.
   
"When people watch this show, they will be unable to resist the yearning to visit Quivira," Leodora said. "There is a magical setting to the golf course and the entire environment. It is Mexico at its very best."
   
Quivira is part of a master planned community that includes the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort and Spa and Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach luxury hotels, the Novaispania interval ownership estate homes, the ocean-view Copola condominiums and the Coronado single family homes. And at the center of it all is one of the most scenic, exciting, wildest and dramatic seaside golf courses in the Western Hemisphere.
   
"There are many golf courses in Los Cabos but Quivira is an experience," explains Antonio Reynante Vega, director of golf at this cross between a golf course and a roller coaster ride. "It can be strikingly beautiful one moment and then, when the wind rises, it can strike fear into the greatest golfers on earth."
   
Fortunately, Nicklaus took into account the wind. He designed extremely generous fairways. Placing a tee shot in the short grass is a fair proposition on even the windiest days.
   
The challenge increases when it is time to zero in on the greens. Elevation comes into play when calibrating most approach shots.
   
Speaking of elevation ... there is more elevation change on Quivira - 275 feet of elevation change - than can be found on all but a handful of golf courses in the world. As a result, in addition to the 14 clubs allowed in every golf bag, one mandatory additional piece of equipment is a camera.
   
The episode from Quivira began airing October 1 and runs throughout the month on the Traveling Golfer network of websites ... including The Golf Director Network (see full list of sites on travelinggolfervideo.com). It also will air on Monday, October 10 as part of the Press Box television show in Myrtle Beach, 5 to 7 p.m. on HTC Ch. 4. The Traveling Golfer also airs as a scheduled weekly feature show on Comcast SportsNet and The Comcast Network throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Comcast SportsNet airings are 10:30 a.m. Sundays and 4:30 p.m. Thursdays. The Comcast Network airs the show at 6 p.m. Mondays and Fridays.
   
As part of every Traveling Golfer show there is the additional feature, "Tech Talk", hosted by Tour Edge Golf experts, such as President Dave Glod. With years of experience as a clubmaker, Glod presents an inside look at the research and development of high-quality golf equipment.
   
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 trips to some of the most exciting golf locations. The show won first place for golf television broadcasts in the prestigious International Network of Golf Awards, presented at the PGA Merchandise Show in January.
   
The Traveling Golfer is a series of monthly shows hosted by Leodora, who has 16 years of experience in televised golf. The featured destination stays on the website for one month, before being replaced by a new show. The old shows are archived for continued viewing on home website, www.travelinggolfervideo.com.

Devereux Americana Collection Offers Fresh New Layering Looks to Beat the Autumn Chill

Americana Showcases Trendy New Sweaters and ¼ Zips That Keep Devereux Men Warm While Looking Classically Cool

(SCOTTSDALE, AZ) – Devereux, an innovator in properly styled men’s resort and golf clothing founded by brothers Robert and Will Brunner, recently unveiled its Americana Collection layering items for Fall 2016. Americana features an array of sweaters and ¼ zip pullovers that offer a sophisticated and stylish solution for beating the chill.

James Pullover

Complementing the classically cool tops of the Americana collection, Creative Director Robert Brunner, designed the new layering items in a quartet of trendy looks and rich colorways that provide a stylish contrast to the softer color palette found in the tops and bottoms in the Fall portfolio.  

“Designing layering items for resort-inspired looks was a fun challenge for me, because I had to come up with pieces that work with a pair of shorts for a hot look on a boat, but still offer something stylish and practical enough for a weekend at a ski lodge,” said Robert Brunner, Creative Director and Co-Founder – Devereux. “In addition to the classic layering hues of blacks and greys that are quite versatile, we added in pieces with pops of color and subtle design nuances that really make this collection one that stands out from the crowd.  There truly is a sweater for every resort occasion you can think of from a cool dewy morning on the Gulf Coast to a Pacific Northwest mountain cabin getaway.”

Devereux’s Americana Collection layering items include:
Collin Crewneck Sweater  ($120)
· Constructed from 100% luxurious Pima Cotton, this Lux Knit is a lightweight, two-toned, rolled crewneck sweater for stylish men.  It is finished with raw seams and ribbed side vents to provide for an excellent fit. The Collin is the perfect casual layering piece for a day at the resort. Available in Navy and Victory Red colorways.
Edison Shawl ($180)
· The Edison Shawl is made of 100% fine Pima Cotton and provides its wearer with a contemporary shawl look with contrasting color for a cool heather visual effect.   For added style and maximum comfort, the Edison offers a ribbed cuff, hem and neck.  Available in Caviar and Mojave colorways.

James Pullover ($100)
· Crafted from a 95% Polyester/ 5% Spandex blend, the James is a performance ¼ zip pullover that is engineered to maintain comfortable body temperature on cool days.  The James is enhanced with a sueded hand feel and camo placket to help you stay comfortable and stylish when layering.  Available in Graphite, Navy and Steel colorways.

Preston Pullover: ($185)
· The Preston is a luxurious, mid-weight ¼ zip made from 100% fine Pima Cotton.  It showcases sophisticated elements with a diamond-knit pattern, Horn buttons enclosure and faux suede detail – making it a stylish statement piece.  Available in silver.    

Devereux apparel is crafted for resort lovers and golf enthusiasts, and features an array of polo shirts, pants, shorts, various luxurious layering items and headwear that is designed to seamlessly transition from the course to the street. For more information on Devereux’s entire selection of proper threads, visit www.dvrxthreads.com.

PGA Value Guide to Host Fall Trade-In Blitz Throughout October

Golfers Can Access the PGA Value Guide to Find Fair Market Trade-In Values for Their Current Golf Clubs

(Raleigh, NC) - The PGA Value Guide, the National Standard for Golf Club Values, announced a Fall Trade-In Blitz program that will run the entire month of October at valueguide.pga.com. Thanks to a flood of great golf club technology in the marketplace and strong trade-in values, golfers can access the PGA Value Guide to find the fair market trade-in value for their current clubs and help offset the cost of a new equipment purchase.

As part of the October Fall Trade-In Blitz, golfers visiting the PGA Value Guide will receive an extra 20% on the value of their existing clubs toward the purchase of new clubs.  In fact, the PGA Value Guide website offers a convenient online trade-in tool which allows golfers to print a free shipping label, ship their clubs in and receive cash or credit for their trade-ins.  Golfers can then visit any one of over 5,000 PGA Professional-staffed facilities in the PGA Trade-In Network where they redeem their cash or credit towards the purchase of new properly-fit golf equipment from the top brands in golf.

“PGA Value Guide is the destination where golfers come to find the value of their existing clubs, as well as past purchases that may be gathering dust in the garage,” said Doug Smith, PGA Value Guide VP – Business Development.  “Today’s high performance drivers, fairway woods, irons and putters are generating a great return on investment in-trade. Fall is the perfect time for golfers to trade-in their existing clubs to help offset the cost of new golf club innovations hitting the market.”

Just like determining the resale value of a preowned vehicle, the PGA Value Guide provides a detailed valuation of existing equipment for trade-in. Consumers have a mechanism to make an easy, turn-key new product purchase. Today, the PGA Value Guide features everything from benefits to reviews, product specifications to pricing. It is recognized as THE Source for providing current fair market values for all golf clubs, as well as in-depth research and information on new equipment in the market.

For more information on the PGA Value Guide’s Fall Trade-In Blitz, visit valueguide.pga.com.

Sports Turf Managers Association to Host 28th Annual Conference & Exhibition

Leading Industry Event Returns to Orlando for First Time Since 2010

(LAWRENCE, Kan.) – Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) – the professional organization for 2,600 men and women managing sports fields worldwide who are critical to the safety of athletes and coaches – will host its 28th annual Conference & Exhibition January 24-27, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Approximately 1,200 leaders in the sports turf industry will gather at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort for more than 75 hours of cutting-edge sports turf education, dedicated networking functions and exhibitor demonstrations. This marks the first time the event has returned to Orlando since 2010.

Close to 50 educational sessions and panel discussions will feature sports turf managers along with academic and commercial representatives from schools, colleges and universities, parks and recreational facilities, and professional sports stadiums.

With eight educational tracks, sample topics include agronomics, water, professional development, facility management, construction/renovation, industry developments, synthetic, and K-12.

"Each year we look forward to sharing best practices, networking and learning about new industry trends," says Kim Heck, CAE, CEO of STMA. "We’re excited to return to the ‘Sunshine State’ for the 2017 Conference, which will offer comprehensive educational opportunities and inspire sports turf managers to re-energize for the upcoming year."

Laura Katen, President of Katen Consulting, has been tapped as the event's highly anticipated keynote speaker. A New York-based professional development training company, Katen and her team travel nationally conducting seminars for Fortune 500 companies to not-for-profit companies. Katen will address the topic of professionalism, and how communication at an individual and organizational level influences how you are perceived by your peers, employer and community.

New additions to the Conference include Chapter Board Members' Reception, multiple “Fun Run/Walk” times, led by chair Tom Nielsen of the Louisville Bats, and an educational track created specifically for K-12 sports turf managers

Returning for 2017, the always-popular “Seminar on Wheels Tours” will visit Raymond James Stadium, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Practice Facility, Barnett Park, the Citrus Bowl and Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Conference attendees can also take advantage of continuing education units from the American Sports Builders Association, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, National Association of Landscape Professionals, National Recreation and Park Association, Professional Grounds Management Society and STMA.

The SAFE Foundation – STMA’s charitable arm enriching communities by championing safe, sustainable sports and recreation fields – will host a variety of fundraising activities throughout the Conference. It also presents awards to the winners of the Student Challenge, a competition between teams of undergraduates in turfgrass programs with two groups taking home $5,000 each.

Registration for the Conference opens Saturday, October 1. Receive complimentary entrance with new membership dues. Be sure to book online before January 6 to take advantage of “early bird” rates.

For more info: www.stma.org, www.twitter.com/fieldexperts, 800.323.3875.

Dramatic Renovation of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

The Jack Nicklaus redesign is in collaboration with noted architect John Sanford; Renovation began in April, and will be completed this November

(NAPLES, FL) – Interested in taking a getaway?  Then you should consider heading to the AAA Four-Diamond The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Southwest Florida. Set on 125 lush acres, complemented by seven miles of pristine white sandy beach, the 319-room resort is Southwest Florida’s only resort directly on the beach with an on-site championship golf course, a world-class spa, and an award-winning tennis center. Want more reason to visit? The resort will complete the dramatic renovation – almost reinvention – of its championship golf course this November. The resort’s course is being redesigned with input from golf icon and acclaimed course designer Jack Nicklaus, who has a historical tie to the resort.

The Jack Nicklaus redesign is being done in collaboration with noted course architect John Sanford of Sanford Golf Design. This major $9 million project follows $50 million in impressive renovations and enhancements at the resort over the last few years. The total redesign of the resort’s course began in April, and the entire project will be complete this November, with the course fully operational and reopening on November 17, 2016, according to the beachfront resort’s General Manager Jason Parsons. According to Parsons, this is almost a month ahead of schedule.

Jack Nicklaus is helping to celebrate his past and that of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club by reshaping the future of this iconic golf course. It was in 1951, on a family vacation to Naples, Florida, and a friendly round of golf alongside his father, that the Ohio native accomplished the very impressive feat of first breaking 40 over nine holes on the resort’s course, shooting a 37. At just 11 years old, he came within a shot of shooting par, and just one year after he picked up golf clubs for the first time. This round, in particular, is what drew Nicklaus to the project–the scorecard is even archived in the Jack Nicklaus Museum, the 24,000-square-foot facility on the campus of The Ohio State University.

“Being back at The Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club is like a walk down memory lane for me,” Nicklaus said. “Returning to the same course where I broke 40, with my father by my side, brings back a lot of very special and very fond memories. At the same time, I am enjoying the opportunity to work with John (Sanford) on this rebirth, if you will, of a wonderful layout. I think we have some great ideas and people will be excited about the end product.”

The resort’s golf course brings together two of the world’s finest designers, who celebrated the grand opening of their collaboration on Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx, New York, in 2015. Sanford served as project manager for the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, and among the many honors bestowed on the design, it was named to Golf Digest’s Best New Courses 2015 and recognized by Golf Magazine as the Best New Course You Can Play. It was also a top-three global selection by Golf Inc. as Development of the Year.

“We are very proud and excited about the completion of the dramatic renovation and redesign of our 18-hole championship golf course,” Parsons said. “The redesign is a unique collaboration between the greatest player of all time Jack Nicklaus, who also is one of the world’s most celebrated golf course designers, and the very talented John Sanford. It truly has been a pleasure to see them collaborate on this totally new, par-71 course, which features five tees, ranging from 4,800 yards to over 6,900 yards. Our guests, groups, and golfers of every skill level will absolutely love the truly beautiful new course. The new course will be a terrific addition to the experience for our guests.”

Golf Course Architect John Sanford said, “The course has been redesigned to challenge the best players but also be enjoyable for all golfers. The redesign takes advantage of the sandy soils so the course will play ‘firm and fast.’ The ball will roll out so tee shots will be longer and approaches are open to accept running shots to the greens. The greens are gently contoured to allow for multiple hole locations but have continuous movement that will challenge all skill levels. Many of the large trees were cleared to ‘open up’ the course and various types of palm trees have been planted to extend the beachfront character of the resort. We are very excited about the reopening of the course in November.”

Sanford added, “We have a number of great new holes at the resort course, which includes the ‘signature hole’ #16. It is a medium length ‘Redan’ par 3. The green is a peninsula with water in front, on the right and behind the green. It’s not long but will require accuracy to hit the green.”

In addition to the new course, the resort has added a 300-yard practice and teaching range, and will have new golf carts with GPS tracking systems to aid golfers with yardages on each hole, thus helping pace of play.

“The completion of this renovation will bring our golf course in line with the rest of our AAA Four-Diamond resort and enhance the overall guest and group experience,” said Henry B. Watkins, co-owner of the resort. “The added bonus of having Mr. Nicklaus collaborate on the redesign of the course where he first broke 40 for nine holes is wonderful, and further enriches the deep history of our property.”

Rich in hospitality and tradition, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has been part of the Naples community since 1946. Owned and operated by the Watkins family for three generations, the resort also features: 1,000 feet of soft white-sand beach; the world-class spa; a fitness center; the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center with six Har-Tru courts; Beach Kids Club, a complimentary daily recreational program for children ages 5 to 12; retail shops; beach rentals; 34,000 square feet of meeting space; and a variety of picturesque outdoor venues for receptions and events.

In addition, the resort features multiple restaurants and lounges. The selection includes:  the signature beachfront restaurant HB’s on the Gulf; Broadwell’s, serving breakfast daily and providing panoramic views of the golf course; and the Seminole Store, which serves deli sandwiches, ice cream, gourmet coffees and a variety of freshly baked pizza, pastries and desserts in a café atmosphere. The Sunset Beach Bar & Grill has been recognized as the “Best Place To View A Southwest Florida Sunset,” and was named “Naples’ Best Beach Bar” by Travel Channel.

Guest rooms and suites feature cool tropical-colored linens, fabrics and carpeting; flat-panel televisions; patios or balconies (with a view of the Gulf, the golf course or the lush resort interior); coffee makers; and refrigerators.

Among the recent enhancements was the November 2015 replacement of the brick balconies in the main Tower Building with beautiful glass balconies to showcase the gorgeous Gulf views.

Situated just blocks from Naples’ renowned shopping districts of fashionable 5th Avenue South and historic 3rd Street South, the resort is also within minutes of shopping at Venetian Village, Waterside Shops, Bayfront and Tin City.

Guests can further experience the area by taking tours of the Everglades, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Corkscrew Swamp, The Botanical Gardens, or the Conservancy Nature Center. Boat and fishing trips can also be arranged at the hotel. Other leisure-time activities can include Naples’ outstanding museums, theatres, and art galleries.

Providing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, the resort is an exceptional tropical getaway. Guests always benefit from no resort fees, complimentary self-parking and valet parking, and complimentary access to the resort’s fitness center. The resort is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North in Naples, Florida.

For reservations or for information about rates, contact the resort’s Reservations Department at (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, and visit NaplesBeachHotel.com. For golf rates and tee time information, as the course will be open to the public, contact the resort’s Golf Pro Shop at (239) 435-2475.

Four Teams Tied for the Lead at USGA Men's State Team Championship

Defending Champs Among Teams Tied at the Top After Round 1

(BIRMINGHAM, Ala.) - Birthday magic, local knowledge and some good old-fashioned shot-making all went a long way on Wednesday in the first round of the 12th USGA Men’s State Team Championship.

Ohio, Missouri, Connecticut and Texas each took advantage of at least one of the aforementioned elements to finish in a four-way tie for the lead, posting 2-under 140 on the 7,162-yard, par-71 West Course at the Country Club of Birmingham.

The United States Golf Association conducts the USGA Men’s State Team Championship on a biennial basis. It features teams of three players from all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Eighteen holes of stroke play are conducted over three days, with the two lowest scores of the three individuals counting as the team’s score for the round. Following Thursday’s second round, the field will be cut to the low 21 teams and ties.

Defending champion Texas was the lone team to post an under-par score during the afternoon wave, led by a 3-under 68 from Joshua Irving, who was celebrating his 30th birthday. Competing in his first Men’s State Team, Irving, of Dallas, carded six birdies during his round, with four of them coming during a five-hole stretch between Nos. 8 and 12. Feeling the pressure of representing a state that owns a record four titles, Irving made an 8-foot par save on No. 1 and then watched his 40-foot birdie try on No. 2 roll down a slope and sneak into the hole. His round, especially on the greens, gained momentum from there.

“It was a really special day. It kind of hit me last night during the [flag procession] ceremony how special of an occasion this was. It was the most pressure I’ve felt in a golf round in my amateur career,” said Irving, who has advanced to the quarterfinals of the last two U.S. Mid-Amateurs, including earlier this month at Stonewall in Elverson, Pa. “[The putt on No. 2] went in and everyone cheered and I raised the putter and it just got me into the zone of really competing.”

The putt would foreshadow the key to Irving’s round, as he also made birdie putts from approximately 30 and 25 feet on his way to matching the low individual score of the day. His lone rough stretch came on the inward nine, when his tee shot on the par-3 13th hole went into the hazard to the right of the green, leading to a double bogey, and he followed that up with a bogey on the par-4 14th.

Texas’ second counting score came from the lone returnee from the Lone Star State’s 2014 title squad, Zach Atkinson. The 34-year-old from Colleyville shot 1-over 72.

Irving’s 68 was matched by Connecticut’s Geoff Vartelas, who parred the first 11 holes before making birdies on Nos. 12 and 13. The recent Penn State graduate capped his round by dropping an 18-foot birdie putt on 18. Vartelas, along with his two Connecticut teammates, are all first-time Men’s State Team competitors, and Connecticut is the only team among the four leaders without any previous experience nor someone who played in the  in the 2013 U.S. Mid-Amateur at Birmingham.

Vartelas substituted experience for steady play and good shot-making.

“I just played really solid today. I hit a lot of greens, just played a lot of really good iron shots, and kind of got lucky. I put it in the right spots on the greens out here. There’s a lot of undulation [on the greens] and you’ve got to put it in the right position to give yourself a good look, and I managed to do that pretty well today,” said Vartelas, 22, of Cromwell.

Teammate John Flaherty posted 1-over 72 for the squad’s other counting score. “I got on a little bit of a roll on the back nine,” said Flaherty. “It was just a really solid round, didn’t hit many bad shots, and just took advantage of some opportunities.”

Missouri and Ohio were able to take advantage of previous West Course experience. Ohio’s Bill Williamson, who shot 2-under 69, was the runner-up to Michael McCoy in the 2013 Mid-Amateur, and was happy to relive the good vibes he got from his deep run three years ago.

“I’ve got a good golfing memory. I remember everywhere I hit it in every match. Just being comfortable on the property helps,” said Williamson, 39, of Cincinnati. “I hit it close a lot, which is good. That [birdie putt on No. 18] from maybe 15 feet was the longest putt I made.”

Jeffrey Scohy, 39, of Bellbrook, Ohio, missed the cut in the 2013 Mid-Amateur in 2013, but managed an even-par 71.

Missouri’s Richard Berkmeyer also missed match play in the 2013 Mid-Amateur, but was very comfortable on Wednesday, firing a 2-under 69. The 42-year-old from Wildwood has also competed on the Donald Ross layout in several other competitions, and used the experience to card four birdies.

“The great thing about this course, the greens can be a little confusing at times, but it’s pretty straightforward from tee to green,” said Berkmeyer, who combined with teammate Brad Nurski, the 2014 Mid-Amateur runner-up, for the Show-Me State’s two counting scores. “It’s firmer and faster this year, and that’s better for my game. If you hit it on the fairway, hit it on the green, that makes it a little easier, and I did that today.”

Pennsylvania, which features five-time USGA champion Nathan Smith, 2015 U.S. Senior Amateur champion Chip Lutz, and 2016 U.S. Open qualifier Chris Crawford, is two strokes behind the co-leaders at even-par 142. Crawford, 22, of Bensalem, led the way for the trio with a 2-under 69, one of just six individuals to break par in Round 1, joining Vartaleas, Irving, Berkmeyer, Williamson and Delaware’s Jay Whitby, who posted 2-under 69.

Host state Alabama struggled to an 8-over 150 and currently sits outside the cutline in a tie for 26th.

adidas Golf and Dustin Johnson Agree to New Long-Term Deal

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – adidas Golf and Dustin Johnson announced a new multi-year apparel and footwear deal. 2017 will mark the company’s 10th year collaborating with the 2016 PGA of America Player of the Year Award and Vardon Trophy recipient, 2016 US Open Champion, Top American and #2 Player in the World.

adidas footwear and apparel are designed to optimize an athlete’s performance. In golf, the most important measure of performance is speed, which translates to distance and Johnson’s jaw dropping drives have him hunting for titles every week. adidas Golf apparel frees Johnson’s 6’4” frame to produce his Tour-leading distance, while his use of TOUR360 BOOST shoes have helped catapult adidas Golf footwear to the #2 market share* position.

“DJ’s scoring and legendary ball striking draw huge galleries and substantial television exposure, which are critical to the promotion of our apparel and footwear. We believe his US Open Championship is the first of many Majors to come, which will make him an even bigger star. He is the perfect athlete for our team to test innovative product solutions and his feedback will continue to influence our design decisions.”
- Jeff Lienhart, Executive Vice President of adidas Golf

“adidas Golf is more than a sponsor.  They have been with me since the start of my career; we’ve collaborated, created and celebrated together. I’m grateful for the support adidas Golf has given me and look forward to seeing what we can do together moving forward.”
- Dustin Johnson

*Market Share information is based on Golf Datatech US Retail Reporting (golfdatatech.com) – On/Off Course dollar share from January – August, 2016

Betenly Golf's 3 Day Flash Sale Extended - Savings up to 80%

(Ontario, California) - Betenly Golf, known for the distinctive style and sophisticated design of its golf apparel, has extended its end-of-season $19.99 and Under 3 Day Flash Sale.

Visit the Betenly Golf website (http://shop.aristo18.com/catalog-betenlygolf/betenly-golf-flash-sale/extended-3day-betenlygolf-flash-sale?___store=aristo) and check out the "Bellingham" Flat Front Hybrid Tech Shorts (Reg. $105.00) now just $19.99, or the selection of Betenly Polos (Reg. $64.99) also on sale for $19.99.

Betenly Golf Palm Beach Tech Belts (Reg. $125.00) right now just $19.99 and Betenly Golf Five Panel Hats (Reg. $24.99) are only $9.99.

Don't forget to click the "Select Your FREE Gift" link while completing your order and receive a FREE Betenly Golf Hat with your purchase of Betenly Golf apparel.

Loudmouth Unveils 'Flavor Saver'

(RELEASE) - Mustache pants are here!

You've heard of face furniture (aka a mustache!), now you can have LEG furniture ... Introducing Loudmouth's new mustache pant, "Flavor Saver." For that guy with the mo, the soup strainer, cookie duster, face furniture, lip rug, etc., these pants are a MUST(ache) HAVE! Get ready for National Mustache Month!

Shop HERE.

Re-Visit the Arnold Palmer Villa Grand Opening at Trump National Doral

Donald J. Trump announced the opening of the Arnold Palmer Villa on March 4, 2015. At the grand opening ceremony, the Trump family welcomed Arnold Palmer with a key to the villa and a tour of its 2,500 sq. ft. Presidential Suite.

Nexbelt Congratulates Mr. 58, Jim Furyk, Recipient of the 2016 Payne Stewart Award

(RANCHO CUCAMONGA) - Nexbelt, "The Fastest Growing Belt in Golf," congratulates Nexbelt Tour Staff Professional, Jim Furyk, on being named the recipient of the 2016 Payne Stewart Award.
 

Just days after shooting 58 to break the record for the lowest single-round score in PGA TOUR history, the PGA TOUR and Southern Company announced Jim Furyk, the 17-time PGA TOUR winner and 2010 FedExCup Champion, as the recipient of the 2016 Payne Stewart Award. Furyk was honored September 20, at the Payne Stewart Award Ceremony in conjunction with the TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola in Atlanta. The ceremony from East Lake was televised live on Golf Channel as part of a "Golf Central" special.

The Payne Stewart Award is presented annually to a professional golfer who best exemplifies Stewart's steadfast values of character, charity and sportsmanship. Stewart, an 11-time winner on the PGA TOUR and World Golf Hall of Fame member, died tragically the week of the TOUR Championship in 1999. Southern Company, the "Official Energy Company of the PGA TOUR and PGA TOUR Champions," was the TOUR Championship sponsor the year of Stewart's passing. A year later, the PGA TOUR created the Payne Stewart Award in his honor, and Southern Company has supported the annual presentation since its inception.

The past winners have all distinguished themselves through their respect for the game, the TOUR's tradition of charity and their ability to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

"I am incredibly honored to receive the Payne Stewart Award," said Furyk.  "I was fortunate enough to know Payne as a colleague and friend, and I always admired the character and spirit he brought to the game of golf.  The Payne Stewart Award is an important part of the TOUR's efforts to honor Payne's legacy.  Knowing my name will be forever linked to him through this honor is extremely humbling, and I am very grateful."

"There's no finer player on the Tour and no one more deserving than Jim to receive this award," said Eddie Rowland, Co-Founder and CEO of Nexbelt. "Jim and his wife Tabitha have done so much to help so many people over the years. Through their Foundation, they've raised millions of dollars to help children and families in need and we couldn't be more proud to be associated with him than at this moment."

It's been a banner year for Furyk when it comes to achievements. Jim was selected by United States Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III as one of his Vice Captains for the 2016 Ryder Cup, which will take place this week at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota. Furyk has played in nine consecutive Ryder Cups (1997, '99, '2002, '04, '06, '08, '10, '12, '14), which is the second-most in U.S. Ryder Cup history. A West Chester, Pennsylvania native, Furyk was a member of winning U.S. Ryder Cup efforts in 2008 and 1999. A 17-time winner on the PGA Tour, Furyk also played in seven Presidents Cups and served as a Vice Captain at the 2015 Presidents Cup.

Nexbelt is the "The Fastest Growing Belt In Golf". Its team of Staff Professionals for 2016 includes PGA Tour Players, Jim Furyk, Kevin Na, Marc Leishman, Jason Bohn, Jarrod Lyle, Greg Chalmers and LPGA Tour Player Katie Burnett.

Nexbelt is known for their innovative technology and providing golfers with the maximum comfort and minimal adjusting. The unique ratcheting system called PreciseFit allows the wearer to adjust the belt in ¼ inch increments, providing the golfer with the best fit, feel, and fashion.

Nexbelt is 100% committed to offering its customers superior customer service and the most innovative and technologically advanced products available.

Nexbelt's DRIVE Vision ...
Deliver what we Promise with Integrity.
Retain the Human touch
Invest in Good People generously.
Value our Customers Unconditionally.
Embrace Change with Innovation.

For more information about Nexbelt, visit www.Nexbelt.com.

For Hazeltine National Superintendent, the Bar is Always Set at Championship Conditions

Superintendent Chris Tritabaugh (right) and top assisitant Ryan Moy host the Ryder Cup

Chris Tritabaugh is ready to welcome the world's best players for the Ryder Cup with the help of other Golf Course Superintendents Association of America members

(CHASKA, Minn.) - Minnesota native Chris Tritabaugh loves the passion of preparing for the Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club.

Tritabaugh, 37, is the golf course superintendent at Hazeltine, where preparing for major golf events comes with the territory. The club has been the site of two U.S. Opens, two U.S. Women’s Opens, two PGA Championships and a U.S. Amateur.

This 41st Ryder Cup will be held Sept. 30 – Oct. 2, and the format is Team USA versus Team Europe. But one more team deserves a mention: Team Tritabaugh.

“This is Hazeltine’s and Minnesota’s event,” Tritabaugh told associate editor Howard Richman for a preview story in Golf Course Management magazine, the flagship publication of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. “We all know what the goal is. The message will be the same as I tell my staff every day: We’re all great at what we do. Enjoy what you are going to be part of. Enjoy the company you are with. And enjoy the product that you are going to produce. We will do this as a team — and it will be something special.”

U.S. Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III has Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson and other familiar names on his roster. Captain Tritabaugh’s team includes Ryan Moy, Steve “Rollie” Giesen, Ralph Arnt and Keith Conway.

Moy, who arrived at Hazeltine as an intern in 2007 and is now the top assistant, once thought he’d be a businessman.

“Hosting an event of this magnitude brings our team closer together,” says Moy, who loves the frequent brainstorming sessions over lunch, when ideas for improving their efforts are welcomed and shared.

Giesen, 55, has been at Hazeltine since it hosted the 1991 U.S. Open.

“We’ve got a good core, and we have great camaraderie,” says Giesen, a golf course technician. “We think we keep the course in condition like they would have for a major event all the time.”

Tritabaugh is a 17-year GCSAA member who says he learned a lot from observing his father, a Minnesota school district superintendent. But his journey in the golf course superintendent profession started with picking up range balls and loading a Cushman with gravel so he could fill potholes on cart paths at Albany Golf Club in Albany, Minn.

Gary Deters, superintendent at St. Cloud (Minn.) Country Club, worked alongside Tritabaugh at Albany Golf Club.

“We did a lot of things as teammates. It was so much fun because of the working environment,” says Deters, a 16-year GCSAA member. “A lot of it was attitude. Chris is intelligent, willing to take risks and learn. It’s taken him to a great place.”

Hazeltine green chairman Reed Mackenzie often sees Tritabaugh walking the course. A former USGA president, Hazeltine president and a Rules official in 38 U.S. Opens, Mackenzie doesn’t need a ruling when it comes to Tritabaugh, who writes a blog to keep members informed of course maintenance.

“He’s probably the best hire we’ve ever made,” MacKenzie said. “Chris and his crew are the perfect example of environmental stewards — (through) water reduction, naturalized turf areas.”

From the day it opened its doors in 1962, Hazeltine was prepared for major events. The first 22 words of its 300-word mission statement make that clear: "The Mission of the founders of Hazeltine was to build and maintain a golf course suitable for the conduct of national championships."

They did just that.

To Read more about Tritabaugh and Hazeltine National see the the September issue of Golf Course Management magazine (GCM). To hear more from Tritabaugh tune in to "Katrek and Maginnes On Tap" at 6 p.m. (Eastern) Sept. 28 on Sirius channel 208 and XM channel 92.

Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org.

Golf Pride Completes Sweep of 2016 FedEx Cup Postseason Events

(SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.) - Power management company Eaton announced that its Golf Pride Grips Division was the winning grip brand at all four 2016 FedEx Cup Playoff events. At the season ending TOUR Championship, The #1 Grip in Golf claimed 3 out of the top 4 finishers, including the 2016 Champion, who used Golf Pride’s MultiCompound Cord (MCC) model grips on his way to winning the $10 Million Dollar first prize in the FedEx Cup points race.

In fact, three of the events in this year’s FedEx Cup postseason were won by players who used Golf Pride’s MCC model grips. As the PGA Tour season concludes the MCC grip, which is the #1 Grip model at retail, accounted for a total of 23 global tour wins in 2016.

“Since its inception, 8 out of 10 FedEx Cup Champions have trusted their games to Golf Pride, including the last four winners,” said Brandon Sowell, global sales and marketing director for Golf Pride. “2016 has been a banner year for our brand, sweeping the Majors, winning all four FedEx Cup playoff events and recording 31 victories on the PGA TOUR.  We are proud that so many of the world’s top players continue to trust our grips, based on the products’ performance alone.”

Through the finale of the 2016 FedEx Cup season, 90% of the top ten players in the current Official World Golf Rankings trust their games to Golf Pride grips. To view Golf Pride’s entire line of products played at the 2016 PGA Championship visit www.golfpride.com.

San Diego: An Affordable Paradise for Golf

(RELEASE) - With San Diego’s year-round, nearly perfect climate consisting of sunny skies and an average daily temperature around 70 degrees, San Diego is an idyllic “sweet spot” for golf any time of the year.

Visitors can take advantage of the region’s golf-friendly weather on more than 90 outstanding courses, several of which feature reasonably-priced green fees, located in every conceivable setting including the shores of Mission Bay, riverside Mission Valley, the picturesque Point Loma peninsula and rolling hills of the North County Inland region.

Mission Valley/Mission Bay
In centrally-located Mission Valley and Mission Bay, San Diego offers exceptional value with outstanding golf offerings.

Designed by world-renowned golf course architect Ted Robinson, Sr., Mission Bay Golf Course on Mission Bay is San Diego’s only golf course to feature stadium lighting at night. The 18-hole executive course, a longtime favorite for locals, is where Tiger Woods won a Junior World title and guests can still occasionally golf next to local resident Phil Mickelson. Green fees are $29 on weekdays and $36 on weekends and holidays.

Established in 1932, Presidio Hills Golf Course at the westernmost part of Mission Valley is one of the oldest golf courses in San Diego. Its clubhouse in the storied La Casa de Carrillo (built in 1817) is the oldest surviving house in San Diego. The perfect place for beginners and experts alike, the course features 18 funky, challenging holes of short-course golf. Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods won junior titles here. Green fees are only $10, Monday-Thursday, and $12, Friday-Sunday and holidays.

Designed by Ted Robinson, Sr. and Jr., Riverwalk Golf Club in the heart of Mission Valley features 27 holes and is recognized as one of the region's premier semi-private golf courses. An array of picturesque water features includes four lakes and the San Diego River, creating strategic diversity and a visually stunning backdrop. Green fees are $29-$89, Monday-Thursday, and $29-$99 on Friday-Sunday and holidays.

At Town and Country Resort, conveniently located adjacent to Riverwalk Golf Club, guests can enjoy preferred course access, rates and tee times.

Located in Mission Trails Regional Park, the William Bell-designed Mission Trails Golf Course features a unique blend of scenery as it traverses a valley on the first nine holes then wanders the shores of Lake Murray for a challenging second nine. The course also features a lighted driving range with grass hitting stalls. Green fees are $15-$23, Monday-Friday, and $15-$36 on weekends and holidays.

North County
Budget-friendly golf offerings can be found throughout San Diego’s North County, an expansive region known for its diverse terrain ranging from rolling hills and verdant valleys to scenic mesas and mountains.

As the headquarters of TaylorMade Golf, Callaway Golf and Cobra Golf, as well as Titleist Golf’s research, development and assembly facility, the North County city of Carlsbad is the Silicon Valley of the golf equipment industry. TaylorMade, manufacturer of golf clubs, accessories and balls used by professionals and amateurs worldwide, offers regularly scheduled, free public tours every Thursday at 10 a.m. Visitors can call (760) 918-6000 to register for the tour.

Located north of downtown San Diego in Clairemont Mesa, Tecolote Canyon Golf Course, the only Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Sam Snead-designed golf course in San Diego, features hazards on almost every hole, several elevation changes and shots over Tecolote Creek, which winds through the 18-hole course. Named “Best Challenge at an Executive Golf Course” by Southland Golf magazine, Tecolote Canyon offers affordable green fees at $15-$21, Monday-Friday, and $15-$27 on weekends and holidays.

Recently renovated, the 18-hole Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course nestled in the pastoral hills of Rancho Bernardo has hosted PGA and LPGA events and presents golfers of all skill levels with a challenging and rewarding course. Green fees are $35-$75, Monday-Thursday, $45-$85 on Friday and $50-$103 on the weekend.

Welk Resorts San Diego in Escondido is home to two scenic 18-hole golf courses, designated by Golf Digest as one of the “Best Places to Play”: the Oaks Course, lined with beautiful oak trees and ideal for golfers looking to improve their short game, and the Fountains Course, featuring 600 acres of beautifully manicured grounds. Green fees for the Fountains are $45 on weekdays, $49 on the weekend. Green fees for the Oaks are $20 on weekdays and weekends.

Located at the base of the mountains in Escondido, Reidy Creek Golf Course, designed by course architect Cal Olson, maximizes its natural valley setting to offer 18 distinctive holes. The undulating greens are protected by dramatic bunkers and water features, providing a challenge to experienced golfers, but also extremely playable for beginners. Green fees are $39 on weekdays and $45 on weekends and holidays.

Pala Mesa Resort Golf Course in Fallbrook is one of Southern California’s most challenging golf courses. The beautifully manicured 18-hole championship course features a backdrop of mountain views and offers challenges at every turn with tree-lined fairways, seemingly narrower front nine holes, dramatic changes in elevation and visually wider fairways dominating the gentler back nine holes. Green fees are $29-$54, Monday-Thursday, and $29-$74 on Friday-Sunday.

Tree-lined fairways and beautiful rolling slopes highlight the 18-hole championship Woods Valley Golf Club in Valley Center. The course weaves through the surrounding community, following the natural contours of the countryside. Green fees are $22-$59 on weekdays and $30-$79 on weekends and holidays.

Point Loma
Located west of downtown San Diego, Point Loma is a classic golf destination on San Diego Bay.

Dating back to the early 1900s, The Loma Club at Liberty Station features gorgeous fairways, greens and practice facilities designed by renowned San Diego architect Cary Bickler. The landmark course features nine holes and a couple of dramatic elevation changes that treat golfers to panoramic views of downtown San Diego and the bustling harbor. Green fees are just $14, Monday-Thursday and $15 on Friday-Sunday and holidays.

Happiness is calling in San Diego. For more information on the region’s golf courses and offerings, visit www.sandiego.org/golf.

Antigua Announces Spring 2017 Women's Golf Collection

(PEORIA, AZ) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of lifestyle and golf apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand - debuted its Spring 2017 Women's Golf Collection.

Sterling

"The 2017 ladies golf collection is a continuation of the simplicity that the '16 line embodied," says Danielle Dellios, Antigua women's designer. "In the new collection, fabrics and colors play a key role versus styling and silhouette. The market was calling for a fresh take on primary color, which was made possible by mixing colors together. Thus, each grouping consists of two primaries. For example, our new green color, Cypress, is mixed with a bright blue color, Cabana. There are a total of four color combos, each mixing two primary colors. Every printed, striped or colorblocked style within the collection mixes the two colors, instead of using traditional neutral accents like grey or khaki. Combining two complementary primary shades really pops. Prints are as strong as ever in the marketplace, which meant creating unique artwork that could also be used to mix colors and give new life to basic styles."

Styles
One of the new sleeveless styles, Mischief, features an asymmetrical fabric blocking detail using a printed geometric pattern run at an angle across the top of the garment and a solid poly mesh fabric for the bottom half. Not only does the multi-color print allow women to wear multiple different-colored bottoms, the print's asymmetry perfectly highlights a logo.

Another unique style, Sterling, is a long sleeve, half-zip pullover. It features ultra-soft peached jersey fabric, run in solid color for the body, and a space dye pattern for the insets. The space dye fabric incorporates two primary colors along with black and white, and also offers a new type of "heather" effect with the start and stop of the multi colored yarn.

Trust features an ultra-light, high-stretch woven fabric, along with a few feminine details such as rounded tail bottom and pin-tucks at the top shoulder. "For the first time ever, we've introduced a lightweight stretch woven polo," says Dellios. Trust is a prime example of the big on-and-off-course trend currently going on. A woman can wear this stretch woven polo on the course and also on the weekends. It's casual enough to don running errands but also sophisticated enough with its no-stitch self-fabric collar and covered button placket.

Rogue

Haven is one of the line's more technical styles, combining a few simple details that make it appear more sporty and athletic. Silicone printing has been popular for a while. "But instead of running an all-over print, I used a single line of printed color around the zipper placket and collar," says Dellios. "The color silicone print is placed on an all-white-bodied garment. The print on the collar gives the illusion of tipping with the tech feel of silicone, while the pointelle mesh pattern insets and sleeves ensure that the garment keeps the golfer cool and dry."

Rogue is the most creative and fun polo style in the '17 line. It mixes the entire color palette in an all-over linear sublimation print. This style can be worn with any color of our bottoms, along with any white or black bottom that a woman might already have at home. "Since the print is bold, I kept the styling traditional with a button placket and open cuff," says Dellios. "I also ran the bold print from Rogue in our knit skort called Cinch. We have carried Cinch in solid colors for years, and it's one of our best-selling bottoms, so it was a given to run it in the print."

Leggings has become a popular trend in golf wear -- many women prefer to wear leggings on the course, either by themselves or with a skirt over. "With the ath-leisure trend still big, I decided it would be a good opportunity to put a basic legging and skirt in the line," says Dellios. The Backspin legging features a heavy peached jersey that provides maximum coverage and soft handfeel. It comes in solid black and black heather. Its counterpart is the Enclave skirt, a basic, lightweight stretch woven with a high-low hemline and zipper hip pockets at the front. It comes in black only.

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.

Olympic Great Michael Phelps Unveils the PLANET OMEGA Exhibition at the Ryder Cup

(CHASKA, Minn.) – OMEGA Ambassador and most-decorated Olympian in history, Michael Phelps, helped launch the “PLANET OMEGA” exhibition at the 41st Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club on Monday. OMEGA President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann joined Phelps for a ribbon cutting ceremony to kick off this iconic event “where legends are forged”.

As Official Timekeeper of the Ryder Cup, OMEGA partnered with Phelps to present each member of the U.S. Ryder Cup Team with an OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra “Ryder Cup” limited-edition timepiece. Spouses and significant others also received one of the limited 616 timepieces that were designed to mark the occasion.

Phelps, an avid golf fan, will also participate in the Ryder Cup Celebrity Matches Tuesday afternoon at Hazeltine.

“I’m excited to be at the Ryder Cup both as an OMEGA Ambassador and a fan of golf,” said Phelps, who has been an OMEGA ambassador since 2004. “The brand has such a long history in sports timekeeping, which has been so important in my career, and really comes alive through the Planet OMEGA exhibit.”

The OMEGA exhibition at Hazeltine National Golf Club offers a unique insight into a truly iconic watch brand. Seven modules inside the space tell the story of OMEGA’s diverse heritage as well as the many present-day activities of the brand, all displayed through engaging visuals and dynamic timepieces. The surrounding walls highlight OMEGA’s involvement in golf, the brand’s role at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and celebrate OMEGA Ambassador Michael Phelps’ final Olympics.

Phelps, the most-decorated Olympian in the history of the Games, holds the all-time records for Olympic gold medals (23). At the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, his fifth Olympics, he won five golds and one silver. Phelps was chosen to be a captain of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team and was also voted by his team to be the flag bearer of the United States at the 2016 Summer Olympics Parade of Nations.

Fans at home will be able to experience Planet OMEGA and the Ryder Cup through the eyes of a champion, by following Michael Phelps as he takes over the OMEGA Instagram page @omega to share his experiences at the exhibition and throughout the Celebrity Matches.

OMEGA, proud Patron Partner of the PGA of America, now looks ahead to resuming its role as Official Timekeeper at the 2017 PGA Championship, set to be played Aug. 7-13, 2017 at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, N.C.

Sentio Golf Announces 'Century Edition' Putters

Limited run of 100 available starting September 27

(Acton, MA) – On the heels of last week’s launch of the Sierra 101 line, Sentio Golf is making available a limited run of tour-prototype putters called the “Century Edition.” These individually numbered putters were the first 100 ever made by the company.  

Each Century Edition has a back section fully CNC milled from a billet of 303 stainless steel and finished with a durable, low-glare black/bronze PVD coating. The soft green durometer core provides a supple feel while the precision MIM 304 stainless steel face provides a crisp contact. The two-tone finish helps to heighten the perpendicular alignment formed by the face and rear alignment line.

“We wanted to commemorate our company’s launch with something special” explains Jim Varney, President of Sentio Golf, “so we set aside our first 100 production putters and called it the Century Edition. We found in early testing that a lot of our better players liked a darker finish and a softer feel, so we created this special run to their preferences.”

The Century Edition putters feature Sentio’s unique construction which separates the entire stainless steel face from the rest of the putter head with a vibration-dampening thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) core, through a process called insert molding. A proprietary TPE formulation bonds the two metal parts permanently together while keeping them separated from each other without any contact.  

The geometry of the TPE core has been engineered to provide several performance benefits, including:
- TPE-filled grooves, visible in the back of the face, compensate for off-center hits by gradually softening the sweet spot from the ends to the center.
- A high Moment of Inertia (MOI), provided by the lower density TPE in the center of the head.
- A perpendicular alignment aid created by the visible TPE layer helps line up putts.

Century Edition putters are available only through the company’s web store at Sentiogolf.com for $399 each. All feature 350g head weight, 2 degrees loft, 72 degrees lie, full offset plumber hosel, 4:00 toe hang, and PURE midsize grip. Customers can specify their preferred shaft length at checkout. Other special requests may be possible.

For more information: sentiogolf.com, @sentiogolf, and facebook.com/sentiogolf.

Gary Player's Emotional Tribute to Arnold Palmer

(STATEMENT) - Vivienne and I just woke up on the farm this morning to the sad news that our friend Arnold Palmer passed away peacefully last night in the USA.

I have so many vivid memories of our time together competing around the world, with our families, helping each other’s charities, and just being together. Arnold was many things to many people and undoubtedly made golf more popular, but to me he was simply a dear friend for over 60 years. Of course, like anybody we had our differences but these never stood in the way of our relationship and I will miss him terribly. He could be difficult and demanding but also blessed with charisma, charm and patience. Arnold Palmer simply transcended the game of golf. He was inspirational to so many and lived his life to the fullest. He had a slashing, dashing style accompanied with a knowing smile. He was loved by all even when they did not know him. He always made an effort, even when the odds were stacked against him. Our prayers go out to Kit and his entire loving family.

Muff, I will raise my glass and toast your life tonight my friend, and hope to be reunited for another round together in time. Rest In Peace. I love you.

- Gary Player

Sports Illustrated Remembers Arnold Palmer on This Week's Cover

(RELEASE) - This week’s national cover of Sports Illustrated features the late Arnold Palmer, with the cover line, “KING OF KINGS.” This marks the 12th time that the iconic professional golfer has graced the cover of Sports Illustrated.

See all 12 of Arnold Palmer’s SI covers HERE.

SI senior writer Michael Bamberger writes an ode to "The King" and his legendary career, during which he won 62 times on the PGA Tour, 10 times on the senior tour and put the sport of golf on the map. Palmer passed away last Sunday at the age of 87.

Read SI senior writer Michael Bamberger’s obituary: "Arnold Palmer, Beloved Golf Legend and International Icon, Dead at 87” HERE.

See SI’s best photos of Arnold Palmer HERE.

Watch Golf.com look back on Palmer’s life HERE.

Read SI’s 1961 article on Sportsman of the Year Arnold Palmer HERE.

Golf Writers Association of America, United States Golf Association on Arnold Palmer's Passing

"There’s not a golf writer on the planet who can type the words 'Arnold Palmer' without a warm memory or timeless encounter coming to mind. He was generous and giving, and exhibited great patience to those of us holding pens and notepads who were seeking a story. He always delivered.

"Those of us who were privileged to sit in on Mr. Palmer’s annual 'state of the union' addresses to kick off the week at his beloved tournament at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Orlando, Fla., never will forget them. They were filled with life lessons, incredible stories and many laughs. Our most sincere and caring thoughts go out to his family at this time. From Mr. Palmer’s many friends at the Golf Writers Association of America, we wish you peace and strength for the days and months ahead. It’s a sad day for our game. There never will be another like him. Godspeed, Mr. Palmer."

– Jeff Babineau, GWAA President

"With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Arnold and recognize his life and legacy, remembering his great championship moments and his incredible humility. We are grateful for his contributions to the USGA as a champion for the game, our member program and our museum, which is named after him.  He always had a twinkle in his eye, and a smile of encouragement for all of us. His history is our history, and  his impact on the game transcends generations.”

– Diana Murphy, USGA President

“Arnold never wavered in his love for the game, from his time as an amateur until my last visit with him a few weeks ago. His legacy reaches far beyond his playing career, as a lifelong ambassador for our sport. It is hard to think of anyone who had done more for golf. The game is better because of him, and in many ways will never be the same.”

– Mike Davis, USGA Executive Director/CEO

Wilson Golf Unveils FG Tour V6 Irons

The Ultimate Feel, Feedback and Forgiveness

(RELEASE) - Wilson Golf unveils the newest addition to the award-winning FG Tour line, the Wilson Staff FG Tour V6 Irons.

Engineered to enhance the Feel player’s game, the V6 Irons are an evolution of the highly acclaimed V4 Irons, our most played iron on the PGA Tour by two-time champion Kevin Streelman, Tour winner Troy Merritt and three-time major winner Padraig Harrington.

“There is no feeling that compares to hitting a ball pure o the face of a forged FG Tour Iron,” said Streelman.“The V6s are the best looking irons I’ve ever played and the tungsten sole technology helps make every shot count.”

The newly added 20-gram tungsten insert is built to increase launch angle without increasing spin rate, which adds forgiveness in the long irons.
This makes for a well-balanced and consistent iron with accuracy, impact stability, and generous distance. The insert on the split heel and toe on the 3, 4, 5 irons and centered on the 6, 7 irons.

Mass concentrated in the impact area delivers a solid, muscle back-like feel and helps players shape their shots. It is also complemented by a back cavity design that provides feedback and some forgiveness on off-center hits.

“It’s not easy to incorporate real innovation and technology in a forged, but the FG Tour V6 Irons do just that. From the tungsten inserts, to what was done to enhance feel and feedback in the impact area, to the sole design and thinner topline, every aspect was refined for better amateurs and tour players,” said Michael Vrska, Global Director of Golf Innovation.

Forged from 8620 carbon steel, the V6 Irons are clad in a nickel-chrome plating, a high-end mirror finish and completed with True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT shafts.

The FG Tour V6 Irons are available on WILSONGOLF.COM and select retailers in 4-GW stock sets on January 9, 2017 (MAP $999.99)

TUNGSTEN WEIGHTING 
20 grams of tungsten, split heel and toe
in the long irons and centered on the mid irons, lower the center of gravity and provide optimal forgiveness across the iron set.

IMPACT AREA MASS 
Maintains a solid, muscle back-like feel and workability, but with a back cavity design to provide feedback and forgiveness on off-center hits.

FORGED FEEL 
The 8620 carbon steel is forged for the ultimate in feel, feedback and response. forgiveness across the iron set.

Nike Golf Club Collection: Charge the Cup

(RELEASE) - The Nike Golf Club Charge the Cup collection celebrates the Ryder Cup, a biennial match play contest between the United States and Europe.

The Charge the Cup collection is designed for off-course style with on-course functionality. Including the Nike Classic 99 hat, Nike Range Sweater and Nike TR Dry Blade polo each piece in the collection celebrates this storied competition. The U.S. team, represented by the stars and stripes, is primed for an eighth win since 1979.

“I’ve been watching the Ryder Cup ever since I was a kid and it’s always been a goal of mine to earn a spot on Team USA," recalls Brooks Koepka. "I’m excited to finally have the opportunity to represent my country and I will do whatever I can to help our team win the cup.”

For the European team, a bold 10 and a hidden 11 in the graphic toasts the reigning champs and honors their prior victories and Cup retention.

“Playing in the Ryder Cup has been one of the best experiences I’ve had on a golf course. I love being part of a team," states Rory McIlroy. "I’m excited to come together with my teammates for the chance to win my fourth consecutive Ryder Cup.”

The Nike Golf Club Charge the Cup collection is available now on nike.com and at select retailers.

Deadline Approaching for PerryGolf Cruise Giveaway to the British Isles

(WILMINGTON, NC) – PerryGolf is encouraging golfers to enter its current giveaway, a 13-night golf voyage for two to the British Isles next summer, before the deadline on midnight (EDT) on September 30. To enter, complete and submit the registration form located at the Sweepstakes website at http://www.perrygolf.com/WinTheOpen.

The golf travel company is giving away a stateroom for two (2) on the PerryGolf / Azamara “2017 Open Championship Golf Voyage” which will take place July 19 to August 1, 2017, inclusive of dining and drinks, six rounds of golf plus admission to the final round of The 146th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on Sunday.

The lucky winner and a guest will receive a Club Oceanview Stateroom for two on the voyage, which features ten ports-of-call throughout England, Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. This golf voyage will be hosted by PerryGolf co-founder, Colin Dalgleish. The PerryGolf staff will oversee all aspects of your golf experience from daily pairings to caddie arrangements and the handling of your golf clubs, which will be set up at each club awaiting your arrival from the ship. (A complete list of inclusions is available online).

The biggest decision the winner will have to make, besides deciding who to bring along on the exclusive golf voyage, is whether to join the Arnold Palmer flight or the Lee Trevino flight when selecting which golf courses to play. Either way, the winner is assured six fabulous rounds including a mixture of Royal Clubs, Open Championship and Ryder Cup venues.

The onboard experience with Azamara is to want for nothing. The refurbished 690-passenger Journey is large enough to provide every comfort and amenity, yet nimble enough to navigate smaller harbors. Forty-four suites are available on Journey, each attended by English-style butler service. Dining, wine, beer, spirits, coffees and sodas plus shuttle service to and from port communities, and more is inclusive along with all gratuities.

Bonus entries are available by correctly answering three golf-related questions and/or by sharing the contest on social media. Full terms and conditions can be found on the sweepstakes page.

For more information, visit www.PerryGolf.com.

CareerBuilder Challenge Statement on the Passing of Legend Arnold Palmer

Ernie Dunlevie, Arnold Palmer and Bob Hope. Courtesy CareerBuilder Challenge

(STATEMENT) - Golf legend and icon Arnold Palmer passed away on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA – 15 days after his 87th birthday. A winner of 62 PGA TOUR titles and seven major championships, and a 1974 inductee into the World Golf Hall of Fame, Palmer is the CareerBuilder Challenge’s only five-time champion – winning in 1960, 1962, 1968, 1971 and 1973.

Statement from John Foster (Chairman of the Board, Desert Classic Charities) on the Sept. 25, 2016 passing of Arnold Palmer:

“It is with immensely heavy hearts that the entire CareerBuilder Challenge staff mourns the passing of Arnold Palmer. Arnold was golf’s ultimate people’s champion and, as a five-time winner of our tournament, our most decorated champion. His golfing history is indelibly linked to ours and spans every generation of golfer who has played the CareerBuilder Challenge – from winning our inaugural tournament in 1960 and making the 1973 edition of our tournament his 62nd and final PGA TOUR victory, while holding close his friendships with Bob Hope and our numerous celebrity players, to serving as host to our 50th tournament in 2009. Yet, as we came to know, Arnold the man was exponentially greater than his countless golfing accolades. Arnold’s spirit will continue to live on in the Coachella Valley through his triumphs and fans, the moments and stories his many pro-am partners hold near and dear, and that famous, warm smile that shone as bright as the La Quinta sun to every person he gave an autograph to and posed for a photo with. Our deepest and most sincere thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to his wife, Kit, his kids, grandkids, great grandchildren, and all of his family.”

Arnold Palmer and the CareerBuilder Challenge
- Palmer is the CareerBuilder Challenge’s only five-time champion, winning in 1960, 1962, 1968, 1971 and 1973.
- Palmer won the tournament’s inaugural competition in 1960 (then known as the Palm Springs Golf Classic) when he shot 22-under-par 338 to win $12,000. The purse that year was $70,000. His score would stand as the tournament record for 17 years.
- Palmer won his 62nd and final PGA TOUR title at the 1973 Bob Hope Desert Classic in a showdown with Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus was already golf’s all-time leading money winner and Palmer was a four-time event champion. Palmer shot 17-under-par 343 and defeated Nicklaus and Johnny Miller by two strokes to become the tournament’s only five-time champion.
- Palmer became the tournament’s first three-time winner when he defeated Deane Beman in a sudden-death playoff at Bermuda Dunes Country Club in 1968.
- Palmer played in three of the CareerBuilder Challenge’s 18 playoffs. He lost to Doug Sanders in 1966, defeated Deane Beman in 1968, and defeated Raymond Floyd in 1971.
- Palmer served as the official host of the 50th edition of the tournament - the Bob Hope Classic hosted by Arnold Palmer - in 2009. That event was won by Pat Perez.

Rory McIlroy Claims TOUR Championship and FedExCup

McIlroy wins in sudden death playoff for victory at East Lake Golf Club

(RELEASE) - Rory McIlroy shot a final-round 64 and came from three back with three holes remaining on Sunday to claim both the TOUR Championship and the FedExCup at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia.

“It was incredible,” McIlroy says of the win. “All I wanted to do was concentrate on winning the TOUR Championship. I couldn’t control what anyone else did, I just needed to come out here and play a really good round of golf.”

Finishing at 12-under, he entered a three-way tie for a sudden death playoff. He started off strong as he blasted a 357-yard drive with his Nike Vapor Fly Pro driver then went on to outlast the competition after four holes. McIlroy, who tallied 20 total birdies, hit his driver well all week as he led the field in strokes gained off the tee (6.606) and finished third in average driving distance (314.7 yards).

McIlroy ended the season with two wins in the month of September, notching his 12th and 13th career PGA Tour victories.

Fellow Nike athlete Kevin Chappell finished third.

MCILROY'S NIKE GOLF GEAR
- Apparel: Nike Performance
- Footwear: Nike Lunar Control 4                  
- Driver: Nike Vapor Fly Pro 9.5° (MRC Diamana S+ 70 XTS)
- Fairway Wood: Nike Vapor Speed 3-wood 15°, 5-wood 19°
- Irons: Nike VR Pro (3-9)
- Wedges: Nike Engage 46°, 56°, 58°
- Ball: Nike RZN Tour Platinum

NIKE GOLF'S 2016 PGA TOUR VICTORIES
- Rory McIlroy – TOUR Championship
- Rory McIlroy – Deutsche Bank Championship
- Jhonattan Vegas – RBC Canadian Open
- Tony Finau – Puerto Rico Open

NIKE GOLF'S 2016 INTERNATIONAL VICTORIES
- Francesco Molinari – Italian Open (European Tour)
- Paul Peterson – D+D REAL Czech Masters (European Tour)
- Dylan Frittelli – Rolex Trophy (European Challenge Tour)
- Joël Stalter – Swedish Challenge (European Challenge Tour)
- JJ Spaun - News Sentinel Open (Web.com Tour)
- Ryuko Tokimatsu - Dunlop Srixon Fukushima Open (Japan Golf Tour)
- Ryuko Tokimatsu - Nestle Inviational Match-Play (Japan Golf Tour)
- Rumi Yoshiba – Nippon Ham Ladies Classic (JLPGA)
- Rory McIlroy – Dubai Duty Irish Open (European PGA Tour)
- Jordan Smith – Red Sea Egyptian Challenge (European Challenge Tour)
- Hao-Tong Li – Volvo China Open (European PGA Tour)