Hideki Matsuyama Makes History With Srixon Z-STAR XV Golf Ball

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Trusting the tour-validated performance of his Srixon and Cleveland Golf equipment, Hideki Matsuyama dominated a strong field with a seven-shot win in the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai, China. The third career PGA TOUR victory for Matsuyama was a scoring clinic, as he made 29 birdies for the week en route to rounds of 66-65-68-66 and a 23-under-par total. He did not make a single bogey over his final 45 holes and achieved the largest margin of victory in tournament history.

A native of Japan, the 24-year-old Matsuyama becomes the first Asian-born player to ever win a WGC PGA TOUR event, doing so at the tournament commonly known as “Asia’s Major.”

“Winning today I feel has got me closer to being able to compete a lot better in the major tournaments,” said Matsuyama, referencing the season’s four traditional majors. “And so my next goal is, of course, to win a major, and I’m going to do all that I can to prepare well for that.”

With this victory, the 10th global triumph of his professional career, Matsuyama also ties the record for most PGA TOUR wins ever by a Japanese golfer. Besides taking home a $1,620,000 first-place check, he vaults to the top of the PGA TOUR FedEx Cup standings and moves to No. 6 in the Official World Golf Rankings, a career-high position.

This continues an absolutely torrid stretch of play from one of the world’s best players. Two weeks ago, Matsuyama won the Japan Golf Tour’s Japan Open Golf Championship by three strokes, and last week he finished second at the PGA TOUR CIMB Classic in Malaysia.

In Hideki Matsuyama’s Bag:
· Srixon Z-STAR XV golf ball
· Srixon Z 945 irons (4-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts
· Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 Precision Forged wedges (52°, 56°, 60°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts
· Srixon staff bag, glove and apparel

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

Cody Gribble Notches First PGA Tour Win at Sanderson Farms Championship

In just his eighth career start, Gribble earns his first PGA Tour victory

(RELEASE) - PGA Tour rookie Cody Gribble claimed his first win on Tour at the Sanderson Farms Championship this weekend. Gribble, who won the 2012 NCAA Championships with the University of Texas, shot 20-under with a bogey-free final-round, including five birdies on the back nine. Over the weekend, he also led the field with 26 birdies and ranked first in total strokes gained and strokes gained putting.

“There’s no words right now. It’s just an unbelievable experience,” Gribble said of his win.

Gribble has worn the Swoosh since his days as a junior golfer, went pro in 2013. He now wears the Nike Lunar Control 4.

GRIBBLE’S NIKE GOLF GEAR
- Apparel: Nike Performance
- Footwear: Nike Lunar Control 4                  
- Driver: Nike Vapor Fly Pro 10.5°
- Fairway Wood: Nike Vapor Fly 3-wood 15°
- Hybrid: Nike Vapor Fly 17°
- Irons: Nike Vapor Pro Combo (3), Nike Vapor Pro (4-9)
- Wedges: Nike VR X3X 53°, Nike Engage 60°
- Putter: Nike Method 006
- Ball: Nike RZN Tour Platinum

NIKE GOLF'S 2016 PGA TOUR VICTORIES
- Cody Gribble – Sanderson Farms Championship
- 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)

Product Review: Under Armour Gameday Sunglasses

For years, I thought I was serious about sun safety on the golf course. My sunburned neck, nose and forehead were replaced by hats and SPF 30. Problem solved, right? Wrong. I was still subjecting my eyes to the sun’s brutality.

Next step: Find a pair of sunglasses. That was easier said than done, however. I found that most sunglasses - even high-priced golf-specific shades - were distorting my vision. Golf is hard enough without trying to hit a moving target.

Multiple failed experiments led to a bit of frustration, but I didn’t give up. My persistence was rewarded when I came across the Game Day lens collection from Under Armour. We looked at the Octane ($114.99) and Igniter 2.0 ($89.99) models.

First, and foremost, all Under Armour Performance Eyewear lenses block 100% of UVA, UVB & UVC rays. Wear these and your eyes or protected.

Next, both models feature ArmourSight lens technology. According to the company, this delivers up to 20 percent more undistorted peripheral vision. They’re also stronger than ordinary polycarbonate lenses and are coated to guard against scratches and smudges.

So you’re happy that your sight won’t be impaired and thrilled that your eyes will be protected from harmful rays ... But your face is round, or narrow, or your nose is big, or crooked. Or worse, you’re a sweaty mess on the course. Under Armour has you covered.

These frames come equipped with an adjustable, self-ratcheting nose pad and “AutoGrip” temples for a custom and secure fit. Bonus: A flared temple tip design for easy slide-on comfort and hat compatibility. No more scratching the side of your face while trying to put your shades on with one hand.

Protection: Check. Performance: Check. Comfort: Check. Now, take your credit card to www.underarmour.com or your nearest sporting goods store and grab a pair of these sunglasses for yourself or the golfer on your Christmas list.

Major Series of Putting Event Planned Adjacent to Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

(LAS VEGAS) – Major Series of Putting (MSOP) plans to build a spectacular temporary sports venue one block off of the Las Vegas Strip, adjacent to Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, specifically to house the largest putting tournament in history starting March 10, 2017.

“We are thrilled to host MSOP in such an exhilarating location, right in the heart of Las Vegas,” said Guillaume Béland, president and general manager of MSOP.

With millions in prize money, participants will compete for their share of the purse on a 20,000-square-foot, 18-hole par-36 putting course created by Nicklaus Design, arguably the world’s most acclaimed golf course design firm. Nicklaus Design, founded by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, has created more than 400 golf courses in 41 countries. A rendering of the course design is available at MSOP.com/2017.

“Designing the official 18-hole putting course for MSOP presented unique challenges and opportunities for Nicklaus Design. This is the first artificial 18-hole course we have designed strictly for putting,” said David Savic, design associate at Nicklaus Design.

The course will feature surfaces from Southwest Greens’ exclusive Golden Bear line of turf, which is available only to those installing Nicklaus Design greens.

"Installing our PRO System on the MSOP stadium course will provide the participants world-class performance that our customers have become accustomed to expect,” said Kevin Holinaty, president of Southwest Greens Construction. “We are proud to be a part of such an ambitious undertaking. Working alongside Nicklaus Design allows us to build a unique design concept within a stadium setting – something definitely not seen before.”

MSOP plans to construct a Populous-designed temporary venue at 110 E. Harmon Avenue, adjacent to Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The venue is anticipated to feature amenities such as state-of-the-art live leaderboards, grandstand seating, club house, restaurant and sports bar and more.

“Our vision is to design a sports venue where spectators will have clear views of all 18 holes from every seat in the house,” remarked Jeff Keas, senior principal at Populous. “Our goal is to create an atmosphere that is welcoming to professional and amateur golfers alike.”

The biggest putting tournament in history, the 2017 MSOP Championships are scheduled to start March 10, 2017 in Las Vegas. The event will offer a wide variety of putting tournaments including singles and team events in stroke play and match play formats with exclusive events for women, amateurs and professional golfers.

Entry fees and potential prize purses vary by event. To view a list of MSOP events featuring direct registration, visit MSOP.com/2017.

Southwest PGA Section to Host 'A Conversation with Johnny Miller'

Miller is a partner of Zero Friction Golf Products

(OAK BROOK TERRACE, IL) – Zero Friction will host “A Conversation with Johnny Miller” at next week’s Southwest PGA Section Meeting in Scottsdale, Ariz. The Hall of Fame golfer and Zero Friction business partner will address approximately 300 PGA members at the semi-annual meeting November 2.

The presentation will include an interview with Miller conducted by Golf Channel’s Brian Crowell. After the interview, Miller will take questions from the audience.

Miller joined the Zero Friction team in 2015 as a business partner and endorsee. The first collaboration was the Johnny Miller Motion-Fit Glove which was released earlier this year. Last month, Miller gave his official endorsement to the company’s golf balls which includes a 2-piece and a 3-piece construction ball.

For more information, visit www.zerofriction.com, or call 847-436-4262.

President George H.W. Bush’s Golf Gear Up for Auction

(BOSTON, MA) – A golf club and equipment that belonged to former President George H.W. Bush will be auctioned by Boston-based RR Auction.

The collection is highlighted by Bush’s Titleist Scotty Cameron ‘Big Sur’ chest putter, engraved on the face with white text, “George Bush.”

Also included is his Callaway ‘Big Bertha’ golf bag, which has an attached Cape Arundel Golf Club membership tag, engraved, “President George H. W. Bush, Member.”

Within the bag are his well-used size 11 Nike Air golf shoes, as well as four of Bush’s personalized golf balls featuring his facsimile signature and the presidential seal, one Cape Arundel golf ball, and a box containing five Cape Arundel golf balls with presidential seals made to commemorate the 41st and 43rd presidents.

President Bush originally gave these items to one of the workers at the Cape Arundel Golf Club, in Kennebunkport, Maine, who frequently assisted the Bush family with their golf equipment and even had the chance to play a round with the former president.

Included is a copy of the scorecard from his round with “Pres. G. Bush,” dated July 16, 2003, which had been signed by the president as well as PGA golfer Brad Faxon, who also played.

Further evidence is provided in copies of photographs showing him with George Bush and Bill Clinton together at Cape Arundel, and another that had been inscribed to him by President Bush.

Known for his love of golf—President Bush is enshrined in the World Golf Hall of Fame in recognition of his ‘Lifetime Achievement.’

“This is a remarkable collection of his personal equipment,” said Robert Livingston, Executive VP at RR Auction.

Among other items to be featured:
John F. Kennedy’s personally-owned and used golf ball, originating from a lot of twenty-three balls kept in a canvas tote bag gifted to Elijah N. Jones, a lieutenant who worked alongside Kennedy in the District Security Office of the 6th Naval District Headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina.

The Fine Autographs And Artifacts from RR Auction began on October 21 and will conclude on November 9. For information, visit the RR Auction web site at www.rrauction.com.

The Bush family's golf lineage runs deep. The elder Bush's maternal grandfather, George Herbert Walker, was president of the U.S. Golf Association and founded the Walker Cup. His father, Prescott Bush, was also USGA president. And now, the 41st President is a World Golf Hall of Fame inductee. The golf abilities of father and son were roughly similar, but their rounds were marked not so much by good shots but alacrity: A three-hour round was considered too long.

“You put your track shoes on when you’re playing with him,” said fellow World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum member Hale Irwin.

“I am a great believer in moving pretty fast around a golf course,” said World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum member Arnold Palmer. “Well, President Bush made sure that happened.”

After his presidency, Bush became even more involved with the game. He was given the PGA of America Distinguished Service Award in 1997, the USGA’s 2008 Bob Jones Award and the PGA TOUR Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

In 1996, Bush served as honorary chairman of The Presidents Cup and attended every one of the biennial competitions through 2009. He is also an honorary member of the PGA and honorary chair of the USGA Museum and Archives President’s council.

Bush was also on hand when PGA TOUR Commissioner announced the formation of The First Tee in 1997. As The First Tee’s first honorary chairman, Bush presided over the organization as it expanded into one of the country’s most impressive, wide-ranging youth outreach programs. The First Tee reaches more than 4.7 million participants in 50 states and six international locations, as well as 120 U.S. military installations.

And he has even carried on the family tradition of passing the game on. In 2011, he took on an emeritus role and passed the honorary chairman’s torch to his son, President George W. Bush.

“I do love the game,” Bush said.

Cure RX Series Putter Helps One Armed Golfer Xander 'Robot' Dobreff Win on Golf Channel Am Tour

(JACKSONVILLE, FL) - In 2009, Xander Dobreff was in a terrible car accident. During the wreck, a part of the car went through his elbow creating a compound fracture that was nearly unrepairable. One of his biggest passions in life was playing golf. It appeared that the accident would keep him from being able to play the game that he loved so much.

"The first question I asked the doctor was how soon I could play golf again," said Dobreff.  "He  told me I would never play again because my left arm couldn't withstand any vibrations, at all. I started to cry thinking about all the great memories I'd made on the golf course. Thinking of never golfing again with my Dad shook me up pretty bad. A couple weeks later I was with some friends who lived near me, they had been helping me get around and take care of myself while I was recovering from my traumatic injury. A few of the guys suggested that the doctor may have thought I was a quitter and that I didn't have the strength to recover from this injury.  My friends knew how mentally strong I was and challenged me to go across the street to the golf course and give it a try. My left knee was in severe pain all the time, walking was very difficult and a little dangerous as I face planted into the cement sidewalk quite a few times during my recovery. Being on the golf course and falling down in the grass when my knee gave out was a lot softer than the pavement.  The first time I went to the golf course I walked 9 holes and shot a 10 over par 46, with a couple mulligans, using only my right arm. Since that extremely difficult time in my life, God has truly blessed our family. I have become a loving husband, father of two wonderful children and have an amazing life.  I have become one of the best one-armed golfers in the world and been welcomed into the amazing family of other one-armed golfers through the (North American One Armed Golfers Association (NAOAGA)."

This past weekend, Xander accomplished another goal. He captured a victory on the Golf Channel Am Tour, and more importantly, he did it against able bodied golfers. Xander credits his Cure RX5 putter for playing a big part in his success and for helping him capture this latest victory.

"The Cure RX5 putter has been a fantastic addition to my game," said Dobreff. "For me, equipment is all about performance, especially under pressure. I have never in my life found a golf club that performs like the Cure putter does. I am currently rolling the RX5 with a straight shaft. I have the head weight somewhere around 600 grams and at a 79 degree shaft angle. The way this putter sets up...it simply can't miss. I'm a one armed golfer and I'm pretty good. But no one in their right mind would want me on their scramble team...until I got my RX5 that is. Now, people invite me to play on their scramble team all the time because they know I can help them win. I'm playing on the Golf Channel Am Tour against normal, able bodied golfers with handicaps ranging from 0 to 20, and I'm holding my own. I've been told by more than one person that I possess the best short game they have ever seen. Putting in golf is the great equalizer. When you're golfing with a disability that's what you need a great equalizer. My RX5 is exactly that, it's my great equalizer. One thing I know for sure is after people see me rolling my RX5, they immediately ask where they can buy one!"

You can follow Xander Dobreff on Twitter at https://twitter.com/xanderdobreff as he pursues his dream playing competitive golf on the Golf Channel Am Tour.

"We'd like to congratulate Xander on his amazing victory this past weekend," said Jim McCarthy, CEO of Cure Putters. "His is a truly inspirational story and we're so happy that our putter has helped him achieve his dream of continuing to play the game that he loves so much."

For more information on Cure Putters visit cureputters.com.

PAUL by Paul Betenly: A Casual Approach to Menswear for Today's Modern Man

(Ontario, California) - PAUL, a division of Paul Betenly, has created a new offering for 2017 to complement their existing collection. PAUL, named as such because it's as casual as being on a first name basis with someone, offers completely unconstructed sportcoats intended to be worn with jeans, cotton pants, premium t-shirts, and sportshirts.

PAUL is a universal collection of menswear perfect for whatever life throws at you. From a weekend getaway to corporate meetings, Paul's approach toward fashion is easy-craft fine clothing that fits the life of today's modern man.

The first product in the collection, "The Weekender", will be available in January 2017 in five colors: Cobalt Blue, Navy, Black, Sand, and Ruby.

The Weekender:
- 100% Wool
- Garment Washed
- Garment Dyed
- Casually Crafted
- Modern Fit

For Fall '17, PAUL will continue to expand the collection offerings by introducing jersey cotton, and technical blended fabrics to create a refined, yet casual aesthetic.

For more information on Paul Betenly visit www.pbetenly.com.

Get Social 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulbetenly/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/paulbetenly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulbetenly/

Exotics XJ1 Fairway Woods Sheer Power Benefits the Majority

Lighter club, faster swing speed, more distance

(Batavia, IL) – Today Tour Edge Golf officially announces the new Exotics XJ1 fairway woods. Always at the forefront of technology, Exotics research and development has once again brought to market a groundbreaking material that benefits players — but this time, it benefits real-world players with real-world swing speeds. The material behind the new XJ1 fairway woods is a titanium so powerful, Tour Edge engineers refer to it as SUPERMETAL.

Once again, our engineers are the first to bring new material combinations to the market. The ultimate combination of a new ultra-lightweight 9-1-1 titanium body and a heavy tungsten sole exceeds all design platforms. The XJ1 fairway wood body is constructed entirely of the brand new 9-1-1 titanium which is remarkably light, 10 percent lighter than 6A4v titanium, allowing engineers to save significant weight in the body. The unprecedented strength of 9-1-1 enables it to be thinner and more reactive, even at lower swing speeds.

“The Exotics brand was created to bring the best technology to the market. In previous models that benefitted players with faster swing speeds,” said David Glod, president and founder of Tour Edge Golf. “I am thrilled that the XJ1 fairway woods perform better for all golfers, but especially for low to mid swing speeds. Finally, an advanced technological club, with the Exotics stamp of approval, that improves the game for those who need it most.”

The XJ1 fairway wood’s lightweight body allows the majority of the weight in the club to be in the sole. The heavy Tungsten sole holds 124-grams, two-thirds of the entire mass of the clubhead. The added weight generates high launch angels and produces a low center of gravity for extremely easy to hit shots from any lie with optimal results. The Tour Edge R&D team utilized combo brazing in the XJ1 fairway woods to adhere the titanium body to the tungsten sole. Experience dictated that combo brazing was the most effective method to combine the two materials and maintain our notoriously high level of Tour Edge quality control.

The XJ1 face technology is streamlined for effectiveness, featuring SP 700 Beta Titanium to create super high C.O.R., all over the face for impressive distance gains. The face is laser bonded to the body for consistent weighting along the seams and allowing for a larger face. Double V variable face thickness (VFT) technology offers multiple levels of thickness that maximizes the spring like effect from more points on the face. By thinning and thickening the face, the v-shapes produce a powerful launch for explosive distance even on off-center hits.

Designed with the real-world golfer in mind, technicians of the XJ1 fairway woods also included a 12-gram tungsten screw in the heel positioned strategically for draw enhancement and faster release of the club head through impact. Additional weights are available in a kit; 10, 14, 16 grams.

Ultra-stable lightweight Fujikura AIR SPEEDER shaft is 45 grams of added power. Tour Edge is the first company to put this shaft in production. Projected ship date is November 15, 2016. The XJ1 fairway wood is available in 3-wood (15 degree), 4-wood (17 degree), 5-wood (18 degree), and 7-wood (21 degree), right hand only. Suggested retail price: $449.99.

Every Tour Edge club comes with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day play guarantee.
For more information, call (800) 515-3343 or visit touredge.com.

Nation's Top-Ranked College Golf Programs Headline 2016 East Lake Cup

Eight of the Nation’s Top Programs to Compete in Expanded Three Days of Competition at Renowned East Lake Golf Club

Men: Oregon, Texas, Illinois and Vanderbilt

Women: Washington, Stanford, UCLA, Duke

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Eight of the nation’s top-ranked golf programs will convene to compete in the second-annual East Lake Cup presented by Hewlett Packard Enterprise collegiate match play championship, Monday-Wednesday, Oct. 31- Nov. 2 at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Ga., airing live on Golf Channel and benefitting the East Lake Foundation.

The elite eight team field will be headlined by the two reigning NCAA national champions (Oregon men and Washington women); the two current top-ranked programs in the country (Vanderbilt men and UCLA women); and the 2015 East Lake Cup men’s champions, Illinois. The field also will feature the top ranked collegiate golfers in the country, including Oregon’s Wyndham Clark and Stanford’s Andrea Lee [based on Golfstat and Golfweek/Sagarin Rankings].

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS: The men’s division of the East Lake Cup will include the 2016 reigning NCAA National Champions University of Oregon; runner-up University of Texas; the 2015 East Lake Cup champion University of Illinois, coming off a school-record nine-tournament-win season; and Vanderbilt University, currently the top-ranked program in the country with three top-five finishes – including one win – thus far in the 2016-17 season.

The women’s division will feature all four teams from the 2016 NCAA National Championship semifinals, headlined by reigning national champions University of Washington; 2016 runner-up and 2015 national champions Stanford University; three-time national champions and current top-ranked program in the country, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA); and six-time national champions Duke University.

EXPANDED FORMAT FOR 2016: The East Lake Cup will expand to three days of live tournament action, following a format from the NCAA men’s and women’s Golf National Championships. On Monday, Oct. 31, the eight teams will compete in individual stroke play competitions to determine the individual champions and to seed for two days of match-play competition. On Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 1-2, two match-play tournaments will be hosted simultaneously for the men’s and women’s divisions, with the semifinals taking place on Tuesday and the finals and consolation matches on Wednesday.

Teams for the East Lake Cup will compete on the championship golf course at East Lake Golf Club, home of the TOUR Championship, the season-ending event of the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup Playoffs. The East Lake Cup benefits the East Lake Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to helping families build better lives and children reach their highest potential through its holistic approach to community revitalization incorporating mixed-income housing, cradle-to-college education and community wellness. The inaugural East Lake Cup, in association with presenting sponsor Hewlett Packard Enterprise and associate sponsors BMW, CSX and Rolex, raised $475,000 for the East Lake Foundation.

GOLF CHANNEL NEWS AND TOURNAMENT COVERAGE: Live tournament coverage of the East Lake Cup will air on Golf Channel from 3-6 p.m. ET each day and will replay in primetime. In addition, Golf Central and Morning Drive will be live and on-site at East Lake, surrounding live tournament coverage with pre- and post-event news coverage.

GOLF CHANNEL BROADCAST TEAMS: Golf Channel’s on-air team for the East Lake Cup will feature Hall-of-Famer Lanny Wadkins as lead analyst and Bob Papa as play-by-play host. Curt Byrum and Steve Burkowski will serve as hole announcers, with Notah Begay, Billy Ray Brown and Kay Cockerill reporting from the course. Lisa Cornwell and Charlie Rymer will host Golf Central, with Paige Mackenzie hosting Morning Drive. Chantel McCabe and Golf Channel Digital senior writer Ryan Lavner will report for both Golf Central and Morning Drive throughout the week.

DIGITAL COVERAGE: Golf Channel Digital senior writer Ryan Lavner will report on-site from East Lake with daily reports, blogs and features. News and tournament coverage will be streamed live on Golf Live Extra. Complete information on the East Lake Cup can be found on the tournament website here. Fans also can stay connected with the championship on social media using the hashtag #EastLakeCup.

Golf Channel East Lake Cup News / Tournament Coverage (live, all times ET)
Monday, Oct. 31 Morning Drive 7-9 a.m.
Monday, Oct. 31 Golf Central Pre Game 2-3 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 31 Individual Stroke Play Championship 3-6 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 31 Golf Central 6-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 1 Morning Drive 7-9 a.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 1 Golf Central Pre Game 2-3 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 1 Semifinals, Match Play 3-6 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 1 Golf Central 6-7 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 2 Morning Drive 7-9 a.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 2 Golf Central Pre Game 2-3 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 2 Finals, Match Play 3-6 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 2 Golf Central 6-7 p.m.

TOM COUSINS AWARD PRESENTATION, SATURDAY, OCT. 29: The East Lake Cup features the presentation of the Tom Cousins Award, an annual recognition of an outstanding male and female golfer who exemplify the values of the East Lake Foundation: excels in academics, engagement in his or her community and overcomes adversity. The 2016 Tom Cousins Award presentation will take place at the East Lake Cup Celebration Saturday night, Oct. 29 at the College Football Hall of Fame. This award is named after Tom Cousins, founder of the East Lake Foundation, which transformed a community in despair into a thriving neighborhood, now a national model for community redevelopment through Purpose Built Communities. Baylor’s Laura Lonardi and Illinois’ Alex Burge were the first recipients of the Tom Cousins Award.

FEATURES:
· Illinois’ Dylan Meyer’s rise to become one of the world’s top amateurs – Illinois junior Dylan Meyer had a breakout summer, capturing the 2016 Western Amateur and the Tri-State Amateur championships to position himself among the top amateur players in the world.
· UCLA’s Bronte Law, the LPGA’s next superstar -- To find the next LPGA superstar in the wings, a good place to look is to the reigning NCAA player of the year and the 2016 Annika Award winner, UCLA senior Bronte Law.
· Duke’s Leona Maguire, 2016 Olympian – Leona Maguire was one of three collegiate golfers to have an opportunity to represent their country in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Duke junior reflects on her trip to Rio that she shared with her twin sister, Lisa.
· 2016 Men’s National Champions Oregon – The 2016 NCAA Men’s Championship was a storybook finish for host school Oregon. Golf Channel takes a look back at the dramatic conclusion between Oregon and Texas in June in Eugene, Ore., where Oregon captured its first national championship.
· 2016 Women’s National Champions Washington – In one of the most dramatic finishes of the year in women’s golf – professional or amateur – Golf Channel will look back at the exciting championship between Washington and Stanford, where Washington won its first national championship in school history.
· East Lake Foundation and History of East Lake Golf Club – East Lake Golf Club’s rich history and legacy was overshadowed by the deterioration of the community in the late 1980’s-1990’s. Golf Channel takes a look at the vision of Tom Cousins and the East Lake Foundation’s revitalization of the East Lake Community, which today is a benchmark for Purposed Built Communities currently in development nationwide.

MASCOTS TO INTERACT WITH FANS AT EAST LAKE CUP: The mascots for the respective universities will be in attendance at East Lake Golf Club on Monday, Oct. 31 and Tuesday, Nov. 1, interacting with fans and participating in Golf Channel’s news and tournament coverage. In addition, Northern Illinois’ mascot – the host school for the 2017 NCAA Division I Golf Championships – will be on-site at East Lake Golf Club.

FREE GENERAL ADMISSION FOR EAST LAKE CUP: General admission and parking for the East Lake Cup is free and open to the public. Complimentary tickets are available here and free parking is located at the Charles R. Drew Charter School: 301 East Lake Blvd., Atlanta, Ga. Shuttle service will be provided to and from East Lake Golf Club.

About the East Lake Foundation
Founded in 1995 on the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed, the East Lake Foundation collaborates with public and private organizations to provide tools that enable Atlanta’s East Lake residents to build a better future through its model for community revitalization.

The East Lake model includes cradle-to-college education at Charles R. Drew Charter School and its early learning partners, mixed-income housing at The Villages of East Lake and community wellness through programs including The First Tee of East Lake, the Resident and Community Support Program, the East Lake Community Learning Garden, Start ME: East Lake micro-entrepreneur program and East Lake Healthy Connections. This approach to building a strong community not only helps break the intergenerational cycle of poverty, but creates a place where people of all ages and incomes choose to live. East Lake has become a national model for holistic community revitalization programs through its sister organization, Purpose Built Communities. Additional information is available at www.eastlakefoundation.org.

Sonoma-Marin-Napa EWGA Chapter Wins 2016 Cal-Cup Championship

(RELEASE) - The Sonoma-Marin-Napa (SMN) Chapter of the international Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA), won the 2016 California Cup tournament for the second year in a row, and for the fifth time in the 10-year history of the event. The 2016 tournament was the 10th Annual EWGA California Cup competition consisted of 8 teams from EWGA chapters located throughout California and northern Nevada. The competition was held on October 22 & 23, 2016 at Rancho Canada Golf Club in Carmel Valley, California.

Captain Jennifer Yount lead the 12-member SMN team through a highly competitive field over the two-day match play event. The format for the tournament is similar to the LPGA Solheim Cup & PGA Ryder Cup.

At the end of Day One with matches in Four-Ball Match Play formats the Santa Barbara Chapter was in first place with 5 points; while the Sonoma-Marin-Napa and San Diego Chapters were tied for second place with 4 points each. Twelve Singles matches were held on Day Two with the Sonoma-Marin-Napa team winning 8 matches, and tied with Santa Barbara with a total of 12 points. For teams whose tournament scores were tied, the scorecard for the Singles match of their lowest handicap player was used in a “card off” using the last 9 holes played. Sonoma-Marin-Napa’s player, Carolyn Stull was 2 holes up for the last 9 holes while Santa Barbara’s Lori Kibbie was all square, awarding the win to the victorious SMN Chapter!

The 2016 SMN team pictured left to right includes Kathy Tindal, June King, Linda Fong, Denise Rose, Karri Haven, Lynn Sletto, Jennifer Yount, Carolyn Stull, Carolyn Hummer, Tina Nuestel, Lin Repola and Linda Hauck.

The 2016 California Cup tournament included the following California and Nevada chapters of EWGA and their final point score: Sonoma Marin Napa (12 points), Santa Barbara (12), San Francisco Bay Area (10 ½), Orange County (9), San Diego (8), Northeast Bay Area (7 ½), Northern Nevada (7), and Sacramento (6). Competition is based on Chapter teams and is conducted over two-days: Day One is Four-Ball Match Play and pairings played either “best ball” or “alternate ball” as determined by the team captain. Day Two is Singles Match Play format and pairings are determined by the tournament chair. Scoring is determined by a hole-by-hole competition.

Founded in 1991, EWGA is the only women’s golf community with a national chapter footprint in more than 100 major cities in the United States, as well as international chapters in Bermuda, Canada and Italy. The EWGA golf community for women is comprised of a broad range of golfers from beginners to experienced players who take fun seriously. Annually, EWGA hosts thousands of golf, social and networking opportunities throughout the country as well as major national competitions and events. Members are accomplished, interesting professional women from a collection of diverse backgrounds. EWGA is locally connected and nationally respected non-profit organization.

How a Snowmobile and a Trip to the Bahamas Helped Rory McIlroy Get His Groove

Rory McIlroy will lace up the new Nike Lunar Control Vapor at WGC-HSBC Champions

(RELEASE) - In mid-August, Rory McIlroy and his performance team escaped to the Bahamas for five days of concentrated practice and training. McIlroy hit the range, the weight room and, of course, the links. The effort paid off: he ended the summer with a brace of wins — the Deutsche Bank Championship and the TOUR Championship — and claimed the 2016 FedExCup.

McIlroy also used the relative seclusion for final testing of Nike Golf’s latest shoe: The Nike Lunar Control Vapor, putting to paces its Articulated Integrated Traction outsole.

After an initial trial on the driving range, McIlroy played nine holes and deliberately hit extra shots from all possible angles — side-hill, down-hill lies, bunkers and more — to push the limit of the shoe.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve played golf in spiked footwear, and up until two years ago those spikes were metal,” McIlroy recalls. “Through its drive to innovate and bring the sport to new places, Nike has created a new traction system that provides me with a stable base to push off the ground and deliver the distance I need off the tee.”

Inspired by the tread on snowmobiles, the new traction system, which was first introduced in the Nike Flyknit Elite, decouples the medial heel and lateral forefoot area to help propel the athlete through the swing. The articulated channels also allow for better balance while keeping the golfer lower to the ground. A unique TPU tread features a protruding series of tooth-like tracks allowing for more points of contact for maximum traction that continuously engage with the ground as weight shifts from heel to toe.

“From the beginning, our goal was to help athletes perform at the highest level,” said Gentry Humphrey, VP Nike Golf Footwear. “Nike Articulated Integrated Traction’s geometry provides great traction on any surface and disperses stud pressure. Not having to place receptacles on the outsole means more room for extra foam underfoot to provide amazing cushioning.”

That means it is both effective in a bunker and friendly on the green.

In the Nike Lunar Control Vapor, Nike’s new traction system is married to a full-length Lunarlon midsole and Nike Flywire. Combined these elements help keep the foot stable, and cushioned, through the swing. A lightweight premium microfiber upper with a 2-year waterproof guarantee to keep feet dry.

Combined, these elements form a winning formula: One which four-time major winner McIlroy is excited to debut this week at the WGC-HSBC Champions.

The Nike Lunar Control Vapor, available in men’s and women’s sizing, will first be available in the United States in limited colorways via the Nike+ App on November 22. Additional colorways will launch on nike.com on November 25.

GolfTEC Providing Complimentary Lesson with Donation to PGA REACH

Redeemable at Participating U.S. Locations Nov. 7-13

(Centennial, Colo.) – GolfTEC – the world leader in golf lessons and largest employer of PGA Professionals – is supporting PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America, by offering one complimentary lesson to anyone who first makes a small donation to the foundation.

Redeemable at all participating GolfTEC locations in the United States between Nov. 7-13, interested parties can sign-up online at pgareach.com/GolfTEC. To complete the process, customers simply follow instructions on making a donation and must show their receipt upon arrival at GolfTEC. Each 30-minute lesson is valued at more than $85 and individuals are asked to make a $25 suggested minimum contribution, but can donate more, if preferred.

Through the game of golf, PGA REACH fosters inclusion and positively impacts youth, military veterans and diverse communities. Aligned with the PGA’s 41 Section offices and charitable partners, PGA REACH leverages the game of golf to make a difference in the communities it serves.

“One of our biggest initiatives each year is ensuring we do our part to help grow this wonderful game,” says Joe Assell, Co-Founder and CEO of GolfTEC. “Through our work with PGA REACH we’re able to bring golf and its positive impacts to an ever-expanding audience.”

Highly efficient and boasting a 96 percent success rate, GolfTEC lessons are taught one-on-one by Certified Personal Coaches, mostly in indoor bays that utilize proprietary teaching technology. Developing a comprehensive improvement plan for each student is the foundation of GolfTEC’s philosophy. This is embodied by the company’s popular game plans and lesson packs, which are available in a variety of options to suit all budgets.

“As the largest employer of PGA Professionals and with so many instructional centers around the world, GolfTEC is uniquely positioned to truly impact our mission,” said Scott Kmiec, Senior Director of PGA REACH. “We are excited to be partnering with them to positively influence the lives of youth, military and diverse communities through this promotion.”

GolfTEC has taught more than 6 million lessons at over 200 locations worldwide. Committed to strengthening the industry and hiring only the best staff, GolfTEC coaches are comprised of experienced professionals, most of whom have taught thousands of lessons. Each goes through a rigorous multi-week certification at GolfTEC University, including continued advanced training to master the analysis of golf swing mechanics, the technology of the GolfTEC system and the most productive teaching techniques.

Each GolfTEC student undergoes a Swing Evaluation to assess their skill, followed by a certified personal coach recommending a specific game plan, which includes fundamental elements like course strategy and a TECfit club fitting session. While the majority of lessons are taught indoors in private bays, coaches also accompany players for on-course/outdoor lessons to ensure they are comfortable in real world situations.

To learn more about the GolfTEC PGA REACH promotion, visit www.golftec.com/PGA-Reach-2016 or call 877-446-5383.

PGA TOUR Winner Kevin Streelman Joins Golf Channel's Driver vs. Driver Series as a Judge

Tonight’s Episode Takes the Six Finalists Behind the Scenes at Wilson Global Headquarters to Begin Prototype Development and Marketing Plans

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – In a series that began with 11 finalists taking their first steps towards winning a grand prize of $500,000 and their concept sold as a Wilson Staff Driver, Driver vs. Driver presented by Wilson has narrowed the field down to its final six.

Two-time PGA TOUR winner and Wilson Advisory Staff member Kevin Streelman joins the series on tonight’s episode as a judge, helping to evaluate and critique the driver concepts. Streelman joins former Chicago Bears linebacker and avid golfer Brian Urlacher, former USGA Technical Director Frank Thomas and President of Wilson Golf Tim Clarke on the panel.

Tonight’s new episode at 10 p.m. ET will go behind the scenes at Wilson Global Headquarters in Chicago, where the final six will work with Wilson LABS engineers in developing their concepts into prototypes, as well as working with the company’s brand and golf marketing team to develop driver concept launch plans, including a two minute commercial. One team will be eliminated at the conclusion of this new episode.

DRIVER VS. DRIVER “FINAL SIX”: Following the first two episodes of presentations, the field has been narrowed to the final six. Some of the finalists are well-versed in the sport of golf, while others have never taken up the game but have extensive engineering and design backgrounds.
- Richard Gischer, Crowley, Texas; and Kimberly Leonard, Pinckneyville, Ill. (Prototype: Wilson Staff Neoforce) – A brother-sister team with golf, sales and communications expertise.
- Kyle Hanquist and Kevin Neitzel, Ann Arbor, Mich. (Prototype: Wilson Staff Energy) – Colleagues and friends at the University of Michigan who are PhD students in aerospace engineering.
- Jimmy Huynh, Brian Mar, Patrick Soriano, Sheila Pancani and Matt Ulery, Long Beach, Calif. (Prototype: Wilson Staff Magnus) – Seniors in the industrial design program at California State University.
- Weston Maughan, Draper, Utah (Prototype: Wilson Staff Fulcrum) – A former golf professional now working in the business sector.
- Eric Sillies, Cincinnati, Ohio (Prototype: Wilson Staff Triton) – A product designer who interned at Dick’s Sporting Goods in college, helping the aesthetic direction for the 2012 Nickent golf club line.
- Gavin Wallin, Eagle Mountain, Utah (Prototype: Wilson Staff Pivot) – A product designer who has extensive experience in golf club design with multiple manufacturers.

LIFE-CHANGING GRAND PRIZE OF $500,000: The seven episode series airs on Tuesdays this fall, concluding Nov. 22, where a life-changing grand prize will be awarded: $500,000 in cash, the largest grand prize in Golf Channel history. Three days later on Black Friday (Nov. 25), the newest Wilson Staff driver inspired by the winning concept will be available for purchase at hundreds of retail and golf course pro shop stores across the country.

SERIES PREMISE: Wilson Golf issued an open call and declared an unprecedented challenge to develop an innovative concept that could be transformed into Wilson Golf’s newest driver. Driver vs. Driver will give viewers an exclusive inside look at the golf club design process from taking prototypes to reality, taking viewers from the company’s Global Headquarters in Chicago and its manufacturing facility in Southeast Asia to on-location at various golf events, where PGA TOUR professionals and stars from the world of sports and entertainment will test out several of the driver concepts. In addition, visits to the hometowns of the finalists will be packaged into special features interspersed throughout the series. Sports broadcaster Melanie Collins hosts Driver vs. Driver.

Last Chance to Experience Fall Golf & Gaming at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

(Traverse City, MI) - Golfers and travelers looking for that final fall escape to see the changing colors and play one last round before putting the the golf clubs away for the winter, should head to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa before the month ends.

The Resort, your one-stop spot for 24-hours of vacation fun, leisure and relaxation, has everything you could possibly need for at least one more excursion of fun under the sun before the snow flies. Championship golf courses? Check. Top-shelf accommodations? You bet. Dining options for any palate? Absolutely. Indoor pools for swimming? Of course.

And don’t forget about Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel just a few minutes down the road, where table games and slots await guests 24 hours a day.

“We’re lucky to have Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel just four miles away, with 24 hour a day shuttles for our guests,” said Resort General Manager Tim Norman.  “It provides our guests with a nearby gaming option that other properties cannot offer.”

Check into the Resort’s comfortable six-story Hotel or recently renovated 17-story Tower, which features the absolute best views of Grand Traverse Bay – and let the fun begin starting as early as sunrise on one of three championship golf courses.

The Bear is a Jack Nicklaus design that will test golfers of all skill levels. Measuring 7,078 yards from the back tees, The Bear lives up to its name and will challenge scratch golfers while the forward tees give casual players an opportunity to create memorable moments on a championship course.

The Wolverine, designed by Gary Player, offers another strong test and Spruce Run – the oldest of the three layouts – completes a trifecta that unlike anything else in Michigan.

After golf, grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cocktail or cold brew at one the Resort’s restaurants.

There’s Jack’s Sports Bar or The Grille inside the clubhouse next to The Bear’s 18th green for pub grub. Sweetwater American Bistro offers more upscale fare, and of course the gem of dining options, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge atop the Tower, where the food is as good as the scenic views that go on for miles.

To cool off, take a dip in any of four pools – two outdoor, two indoor – or soothe those tired muscles in one of the hot tubs before its time to play your favorite games just down the street at Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel, where a 56,000 square foot gaming playground awaits you.

“It truly is a winning combination with our two properties in such close proximity, providing all of our guests with exceptional accommodations, golf, spa, dining and gaming a quick shuttle from one another,” said Rob Sineway, General Manager of Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel. “There's something for everyone – with endless possibilities for leisure, recreation and entertainment in one of the most popular travel destinations in the Midwest.”

Get on roll at the Craps and Roulette tables, double down at BlackJack, grab a seat to compete in Poker, or check out Michigan's first new Electronic Gaming Room for a no-pressure, play-at-your-own-pace good time. Slot players will find the latest and greatest of over 1,200 machines that offer everything from slots to video poker and keno from a penny to $100 denominations.

If you're looking for a great meal, you'll hit the jackpot at Turtle Creek Casino. From the recently renovated award-winning premier steakhouse Bourbons 72, to Season's Buffet with endless choices, to The Deli for a quick bite between bets, you'll find something to satisfy every taste. And at the end of your play, you can rest steps away in over 130 hotel rooms and suites.

Interested in taking a quick fall color tour? You’re covered there, too.

Check out all of Northern Michigan's beautiful colors during a leisurely 30-minute drive along the bay on M-22 to Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge, in the heart of Leelanau County with 400 slot machines, Craps, 3-Card Poker, Roulette, BlackJack, Bingo and pub-style dining at Dex’s Restaurant.

With fall here, what are you waiting for? Plan that final G&G getaway today by calling Grand Traverse Resort and Spa at 800-236-1577 or book online at www.grandtraverseresort.com.

Minjee Lee Wins Third Career LPGA Event Using New Cleveland Golf RTX-3 Wedges

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Srixon, Cleveland Golf and XXIO would like to congratulate staffer Minjee Lee for winning the Blue Bay LPGA over the weekend at Jian Lake Blue Bay Golf Course in Hainan Island, China. The 20-year-old Australian made a deft up-and-down birdie on the par-5 18th hole to win by one stroke, clinching her second victory of 2016 and third career LPGA Tour triumph. After seeing her six-stroke lead halfway through the event erased heading into the final round, Lee showed steely nerves in shaking off a bogey on the par-3 17th hole to make the closing birdie and finish with a 2-under-par 70.

“It was a good fight out there, and I fought to the end,” Lee said. “[On 18] I thought to myself, ‘I need to make birdie here.’ I just put myself in good spots and then I ended up making birdie. Just stuck to my game plan.”

Lee earned $315,000 for the win, climbing to 10th on the LPGA official money list with $1,164,514 and 15th in the Rolex Rankings.

This marks the first LPGA Tour victory for the new Cleveland Golf RTX-3 wedges. Lee has three RTX-3 Tour Raw wedges in the bag: 50° V-MG, 54° V-MG and 58° V-LG. The new RTX-3 wedges feature three innovations to help players get closer to the hole than any wedge Cleveland has ever made: Feel Balancing Technology, V Sole grinds, and the third-generation Rotex Face.

Minjee Lee won the Blue Bay LPGA with the following equipment:
· XXIO8 driver (9.5°) with Miyazaki Kusala Blue 61R shaft;
· XXIO8 3-wood (15°) with Miyazaki Kusala Blue 61R shaft;
· Srixon Z H45 3-hybrid (19°) with Miyazaki Kusala Blue 61R shaft;
· Srixon Z U45 4-utility iron (23°) with Aerotech SteelFiber i80cw S-flex shaft;
· Srixon Z 745 irons (5-PW) with Aerotech SteelFiber i80cw S-flex shafts;
·Cleveland Golf RTX-3 Tour Raw wedges: 50° V-MG, 54° V-MG, 58° V-LG with Nippon N.S. Pro 950GH R-flex shafts; and a
· Srixon Z-STAR golf ball. Lee has used the Z-STAR golf ball since turning professional and always makes sure she is using a ball with a “1” on it.

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

PING President & COO Doug Hawken Announces Retirement after 45 Years

(PHOENIX) – After a distinguished 45-year career that saw him advance from assistant to the production manager all the way to PING’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Doug Hawken announced his retirement today, effective January 31, 2017. He will remain on the PING Board of Directors.

“I speak for the entire Solheim and PING families when I say how extremely grateful we are for the impact Doug has had on the company in the last 45 years,” said John Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “His accomplishments are too long to list, but we all agree his leadership and contributions are evident company wide. He’s led countless efforts and initiatives to help build PING into the industry-leading company we are today. He has a way of connecting with our employees at every level, mentoring and challenging them while still being a friend. His strong relationships throughout the industry, including with our accounts, media and vendors, have earned him great respect in every facet of our business.

“His retirement signals a transition that’s been in the works for some time,” Solheim added. “We’ve been preparing the third generation of the Solheim family to assume executive management roles for the last few years. Under my guidance, that process now moves forward. Our team is stronger and more collaborative than it’s ever been. I look forward to leading the next generation of executive management at PING.”

Hawken’s passion for quality manufacturing set him on a path that included overseeing various departments within the club production and assembly areas, eventually earning the title of Production Manager. Under his leadership, the company transitioned to lean manufacturing, which played a significant role in PING becoming the first and only U.S.-based golf equipment company to achieve ISO certification – a globally-recognized quality management system dependent on continuous improvement throughout an organization. He’s also been instrumental in evolving the company’s supply chain management strategy at a time when the industry experienced significant challenges to sourcing and manufacturing processes. In 1994, Hawken’s role was expanded to oversee the marketing efforts, leading to the development of an account visitation program that brought thousands of club fitters to PING headquarters for advanced education on PING’s product development and custom-fitting processes.

“When I first showed up at PING in 1971 after graduating from Arizona State University, I was like most 22-year-olds at the time, unsure of my future but needing a job,” said Hawken, a native of Rialto, California, who was appointed President and COO by the company’s board in 1999.  “I was blessed that Allan Solheim offered me a job. I’ll never forget what he wrote on my application: ‘This guy has potential.’ It turned into a 45-year journey that allowed me to work and share leadership responsibilities with Karsten and John Solheim, who empowered me to become more visible throughout the company and within the industry. I’m grateful to them and their family for the opportunities they provided me and I’m honored to continue to serve on PING’s Board of Directors. We’re in the business of creating and sustaining meaningful jobs. We accomplish this by designing and manufacturing the best golf equipment in the world. It’s an innovative approach that I’m passionate about and one I’ll endorse over any other. I’m proud to be associated with a company that puts the well-being of its employees and their families above all else. I’ll miss the daily interaction and the challenges that come with leadership, but mostly I’ll miss the friendships I’ve enjoyed with the thousands of employees over the years. I now look forward to spending more time with my wife Susan, our children and grandchildren.”

Former Collegiate Golf Player, Master Endurance Athlete Crowned 2016 Speedgolf World Champion

Kenosha’s Jamie Young Wins Event and Donates First Place Prize Money to Charity

(GLENVIEW, Illinois) – Speedgolf International, the organizing and governing body for the sport of Speedgolf, hosted the 2016 Speedgolf World Championship at the Glen Club in Glenview, Illinois, October 17-18. Jamie Young from Kenosha, Wisconsin claimed the 2016 title as he blazed through the course, shooting 72 in 50 minutes and 13 seconds on Monday’s round one and 77 in 51 minutes and 10 seconds on Tuesday’s final round for a combined total Speedgolf score of 250:23.

Jamie Young

Young, a former pro turned amateur, chose to donate his $10,000 first place prize to charity – the Kenosha Rotary-West Club and Youth for Christ of Southeast Wisconsin. A former collegiate golfer at the University of Oklahoma, Young started competing in Speedgolf five years ago. It was the perfect fit for Young, an endurance athlete who was looking to combine golf with fitness.

“I enjoy Speedgolf because it presents a different challenge than traditional endurance sports,” said Young. “The biggest difference between this tournament and last year’s event is this year I focused more on breathing and shooting a good golf score. For me, Speedgolf is a great way to stay in shape and I look forward to continuing to help raise awareness for the sport and to come back next year to defend my title.”

The 2016 Speedgolf World Championship drew athletes from 19 states and six countries, including Finland, Japan, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Australia. Those participating in the professional division competed for a purse of $40,000.

Scores for Speedgolf, a combination of golf and running, are calculated by adding the total number of strokes and total time played (in minutes and seconds). 2016 New York Speedgolf Open Winner Wesley Cupp finished in second place for a combined total Speedgolf score of 253:32 and Golden Colorado’s Mack McLain finished in third with a score of 254:10.

For more information on Speedgolf and the 2016 Speedgolf World Championship, visit SpeedgolfInternational.com.

Tathata Golf Growing Quickly, Top Pro’s & Amateurs Signing Up for Revolutionary Instruction Programs

(NEW YORK) – Tathata Golf (www.tathatagolf.com) announced that demand for its martial arts and movement-based golf training program is growing quickly with more than 500 LPGA and PGA top teaching professionals signed up to participate in its revolutionary training program. Since its launch, there have been nearly 100,000 hours of instruction provided to golfers of all abilities worldwide.

Tathata’s revolutionary golf training program introduces world-class golf instruction and movement training routines into your home for the first time. Combining the ageless teachings of martial arts (structure of learning and movement/striking fundamentals) with the dynamic movements of the greatest golfers and athletes in the world, Tathata Golf takes a radically different approach than the typical 1-hour golf lesson and today’s highly technical, “quick fix” teaching methods.

Tathata Golf takes a revolutionary approach to golf instruction, integrating mind, body and swing offering a culmination of 30 years of research and five years of testing with golfers of all ages, body types and abilities.

500+ Top LPGA and PGA Teaching Professional Signed Up for Tathata Golf
This significant response from top LPGA and PGA teaching professional comes just a few months following Tathata’s offering of its 60-day training program free to all LPGA and PGA teaching professionals and apprentices. This offering is part of Tathata’s commitment to help grow the game. With an estimated 30,000 teaching professionals Tathata’s in-kind donation represents a $5.4 million total value.

"We remain very honored to share our program with all instructors for the betterment of the game,” said Bryan Hepler, Founder of Tathata Golf. “And we are extremely pleased and humbled that so many teachers have signed on in such a short period of time. More and more LPGA and PGA professionals will now see for themselves why so many golfers desire our training and more importantly they will be able to speak with strength about the program as they support their clientele’s success with Tathata Golf.”

Tathata Golf has quickly gained the respect and support of many notable teaching professionals and industry experts, including: Charlie Epps, VJ Trolio, Josh Zander, George McNamara, Sue Wieger, Deb Vangellow, President of the LPGA’S Teaching and Coaching Program, Cindy Miller, Gary McCord and Brandel Chamblee.  In addition to the 500+ LPGA and PGA professionals signed up for the 60-day program, 100 teaching professionals are currently in the Tathata Certified Movement Specialist Program and 25 professionals have completed the certified training.

“The Tathata teacher training program could not be more timely and relevant for me at this point in my teaching career, a teacher/student win-win for sure,” said Deb Vangellow, LPGA Master Professional and Teaching and Club Professional National President.

Josh Zander, a Top 100 Teacher in America (Golf Magazine) and 2015 Northern California PGA Teacher of the Year, also supports Tathata. “For the first time in golf, I have a program to build a champion.”

George McNamara, a PGA Master Professional says the Tathata program is extraordinary.  “I have never seen anything like this and I have been teaching golf for almost 50 years.”

Any LPGA or PGA professional or apprentice can contact Tathata Golf directly via TathataGolf.com/InstructorGift to claim their free program.

Golfers Worldwide Signing Up for Tathata Revolutionary Training Program
Thousands of golfers worldwide also are signing up for Tathata Golf.  In just a few short years, golfers of all levels enjoyed more than 100,000 hours of the Tathata 60-day program, equating to 50 years of instruction provided to date.

Get to know more about Bryan Hepler HERE.

CHAMP PiviX Named ‘Techiest Spike’ by GOLF Magazine

(MARLBOROUGH, MA) – CHAMP/MacNeill Engineering Worldwide – The World Leader in Sport Cleat Technology and maker of innovative CHAMP spikes – announces its popular PiviX model was named the “Techiest Golf Spike” by GOLF Magazine, as featured in the publication’s November issue.

PiviX features spring-flex traction technology which ergonomically feeds the spike into the turf to provide optimum traction. A favorite choice of PGA Tour superstars, it has been trusted by winners of the U.S. Open, FedExCup and many more elite events. Coupled with the new SLIM-Lok fastening system, PiviX allows golf shoe manufacturers to develop lighter, lower-profile designs for improved stability, feel and balance.

“Since our company’s inception it has been our goal to remain on the forefront of innovation and PiviX represents the culmination of our commitment to this goal,” says Harris MacNeill, President and CEO. “Our spikes provide players of all skill levels the confidence they need to play at their best.”

CHAMP, The #1 Brand on Tour, produces spikes that are preferred by the world’s best golfers and have been used by 70% of all major champions over the past 10 years. Beyond its wide range of technically-advanced spikes, the company’s signature products include the Zarma FLYtee series and innovative C Grips line. Designed with a strong emphasis on technical innovation and game-improving performance, the C Grips collection has gained a loyal following among players who recognize its superior feel, durability and performance characteristics.

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

SeeMore Global Tour Fitting Experience

(Franklin, TN) - In the fall of 2011 SeeMore Putter Company launched a SeeMore Putting system to golfers in the form of the SeeMore Putter Institute (SPi), where golfers and instructors come together in person and online to share these fundamentals ideas about how to improve putting performance.   Presently there are over 325 global SPi instructors and 600 SPi fitters that spread the knowledge of proper putting fundamentals through the use of a SeeMore putter.  

SeeMore is proud to announce the Global Fitting Experience.  Our SeeMore Tour Fitting Experience features world class fitting from a member of the SeeMore Putter Institute (SPi) staff instructors and an introduction on how the golfer can use the SeeMore putter to become more solid with fundamentals and make a more repeatable, consistent putting stroke.  

Tour Fitting Studio – world-class fitting experience – tour fitting studios exclusively fit and sell SeeMore putters with expert analysis and instruction from SPi certified instructors.  Features the use of revolutionary interchangeable fitting system as well as stroke analysis software to identify and recommend a SeeMore putter best suited for each individual.

Authorized Custom Fitting Center – first class fitting experience - fit and sells SeeMore putters with expert analysis and instruction from SPi certified instructors.  Features the use of revolutionary interchangeable fitting system to perfectly fit each individual into a SeeMore putter based on his/her setup and stroke tendencies.  

During the global fitting experience, one will explore different head designs and how this can influence stroke mechanics.  This will also include identifying the perfect length, lie and loft.  Once completed one will have the specifications of the SeeMore putter that best fits the golfer and will allow him/her to build solid mechanics for years to come.

All Global Tour Fitting Experience locations will offer SeeMore's finest milled Nashville Studio Series models as well as occasional tour limited models allowing golfers to experience an unmatched level of customization and service.

All visits are by appointment only.  To visit a list of locations - CLICK HERE.

This is the exact same process that is used when working with Tour players. The visit will truly be one of a kind. The golfer will be treated to an unbelievable putting experience. Our SPi staff wants to be a part of the journey to become the best putter one can be for years to come.

Locations (2016 more to come):

- SeeMore Putter Company World Headquarters (Franklin, TN) ~ Studio

- Pat O’Brien – SeeMore Ambassador  - Lakewood Country Club (Dallas, TX) ~ Studio
- SeeMore Tour Fitting Studio (Tokyo, Japan) ~ Studio
- SeeMore Tour Fitting Studio (Bangkok, Thailand) ~ Studio
- Precision Golf (Perugia, Italy) ~ Studio
- CoreGolfUK (Oxford, England) ~ Center
- Andy Gorman Golf Academy (Sutton Coldfield, England) ~ Center
- Steve Watanabe, Jr - The Bridges Golf Club (San Ramon, CA) ~ Center
- Shintaro Ishiyama – PFit Golf  (Irvine, CA) ~ Studio
- George Connor – Connor Golf (Hartford, CT) ~ Center
- Adam Brack – Experience Better Golf (Panama City Bch, FL) ~ Studio
- Tim Overman – Golf In Motion (Chicago, IL) ~ Center
- Mark Christensen – Christensen Golf Academy (Quincy, IL) ~ Studio
- Frank Hesson - Frank Hesson Golf Academy (Medford Lakes, NJ) ~ Center
- Paul Kaster – Forsgate Academy of Golf (Monroe TWP, NJ) ~ Studio
- Fairway Custom Golf (Fishers, IN) ~ Center
- Kelly Crumpler – H2C Golf (Spokane, OR) - Center
- LOFT GOLF Performance Center (Palm Beach Gardens, FL) - Center

2016 ODU/Outer Banks Collegiate Golf Tournament Set for Oct. 23-25 at Kilmarlic

(OUTER BANKS, N.C.) — The 36th-annual ODU/Outer Banks Collegiate Golf Tournament will be played October 23-25 at the par-72, 6,560-yard Kilmarlic Golf Club.  It’s the only Division I golf tournament contested in the iconic Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Host squad Old Dominion is joined in the 18-team field by Akron, Ball State, Bowling Green, Campbell, Delaware, Drake, Drexel, George Mason, George Washington, Hartford, LaSalle, Longwood, Nebraska Omaha North Dakota State, St. Francis, St. Joseph and UNC Wilmington.

Campbell returns to defend its 2015 title against last year’s runner-up Bowling Green and third-place finisher Old Dominion.

Rated No. 24 among North Carolina’s Top Courses You Can Play, Kilmarlic is a popular Tom Steele design that hosted the prestigious North Carolina Open in 2004 and 2009, and began hosting the ODU/Outer Banks Tournament in 2010 — the same year the tournament moved from a 36-hole to a 54-hole event, which has helped attract a stronger field of teams.

According to longtime Old Dominion head coach Murray Rudisill, who has led the Monarchs golf program for 40 years, Kilmarlic has been the perfect venue for the country’s top collegiate players.

“Kilmarlic has tremendous par-5s and par-3s,” Rudisill said. “That’s the beauty of the course — great risk-reward. They’ve had two North Carolina Opens [at Kilmarlic] so it is a challenge for the college guys. It’s not a seaside, links-type of course. It’s more of a traditional course in a nature environment playing through canopies of giant oak, pine and dogwood that exemplify the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. The facilities are beautiful and it’s always in pristine condition.”

“Kilmarlic is an ideal tournament course offering a little bit of everything,” said Bryan Sullivan, Kilmarlic’s Director of Golf. “It’s equally daunting and exciting on the back nine with three par-5s, a drivable par-4 and trouble left and right on most every hole. Anything can happen with birdies and bogeys lurking on every swing.”

VICE Sports: Jim 'Bones' Mackay Shows What It Takes To Be Phil Mickelson's Caddy

VICE Sports meets with Phil Mickelson's caddie to learn the ins and outs of being a professional golfer's right-hand man 

(BROOKLYN, NY) - VICE Sports today debuts the newest episode of VICE Sports Guide to Pro Golf, the series exploring the intricacies of professional golf and the significant figures on the green turf. Presented by Callaway, VICE Sports’ Fernando Perez had the chance to meet with Jim “Bones” Mackay, Phil Mickelson’s caddie for the last two and a half decades. He’s been a significant part of one of the top careers in professional golf and gives his unique perspective on Phil's career.

VICE Sports’ Fernando Perez had a chance to play a quick round with "Bones" in Arizona and learns the technical side of the business from the caddy. During their time on the course, Bones shows Perez the basics of caddying, including advice on how to not put anything negative in a golfer's head. Bones also recounts the time not having food for Phil when he was starving at the 1995 US Open that still haunts him today and details what it was like being next to Mickelson when he won his very first Masters back in 2004.

Check out more for VICE Sports HERE.

2016 Island Resort Championship Winner at Sweetgrass Golf Club Earns LPGA TOUR Card

(HARRIS, Mich.) - Thailand’s Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong – winner of the Island Resort Championship in June – is one of the top 10 finishers on the Symetra Tour’s “Volvik Race for the Card” money list this season and will play full-time on the LPGA Tour in 2017.

“I’m excited to play on the LPGA Tour because I’ve never played on [it] for a whole year,” Santiwiwatthanaphong said upon securing her coveted playing status for next season after the Symetra Tour Championship at Alaqua Country Club on Sunday, Oct. 16.

This was the 19-year-old’s first full season on the Symetra Tour as she missed three months of the 2015 season due to visa issues. Santiwiwatthanaphong’s victory at the 2016 Island Resort Championship was the second win of her young career.

“Everyone at Island Resort and Casino, Sweetgrass Golf Club and the many volunteers and fans who support our Symetra Tour event are thrilled for Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong,” said Tony Mancilla, Island Resort & Casino general manager and event co-chair. “This is the second year in a row that the winner of the Island Resort Championship has earned status on the LPGA Tour at season’s end. We can’t wait to see if next year’s winner continues the streak. We’re already looking forward to 2017, our seventh consecutive year hosting the event.”

Last year’s IRC winner, Dani Holmqvist of Sweden, earned her LPGA Tour card.

Island Resort Championship has consistently ranked as a Symetra Tour player favorite on end-of-season surveys. All proceeds from the tournament go to local non-profit organizations.

The Island Resort Championship is part of the Potawatomi Cup, a collection of four Symetra Tour events sponsored by Potawatomi nation tribes, which awards cash bonuses to players based off performance in the four tournaments.

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

Product Review: Teecil

What Bennifer did for celebrity couples ... What PB&J did for kids’ lunch ... Could Teecil do for golf? Ben Affleck, Jennifer Lopez, peanut butter, jelly - make room for tee and pencil.

The father-son team of Stephen Squillante Jr. and Sr. are the brains behind this clever combination. Dad would golf with a tee behind one ear and and a pencil behind the other. More times than not, he’d reach for the wrong one when recording a score or teeing up a ball, driving the son crazy. Out of frustration came inspiration - the Teecil.

So, what is Teecil? It’s what you’d expect - a standard, 3.25-inch wooden tee that just so happens to also have a graphite point. Simple, yet brilliant.

Need another reason to try Teecil? How many times have you gotten off the first green and realized that nobody in the group had a pencil to record the scores? I’m guessing everyone had tees. All it takes is for one to know about Teecil and the dreaded “no-pencil problem” is null and void.

Look, my brother-in-law used to play with a chipper - a chipping iron that resembled a putter. That’s a good example of a golf combination that failed. At the opposite end of the spectrum sits the Teecil.

Order your Teecils HERE. Get them plain, with the company tag line and website or personalized with up to three lines and 22 characters per line. They make a great gift or promotional item. You can even get a bag of 10 personalized Teecils with your company card topper - perfect for tournament sponsorships.

Find out more at www.teecil.com.

Major Golf Associations Announce Limited Ticket Deal

Single Day Pass for Three Professional Golf Tournaments in Phoenix

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) – The LPGA Bank of Hope Founders Cup in partnership with the Charles Schwab Cup Championship and Waste Management Phoenix Open announce the Go Green Go Often ticket promotion. For $50 individuals can purchase a single day pass to each of the professional golf tournaments in the Valley - Charles Schwab Cup Championship, Waste Management Phoenix Open and  Bank of Hope Founders Cup. Limited tickets will be sold. Notable golfers attending may include former winners such as Billy Andrade, Hideki Matsuyama and Stacy Lewis.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our one-of-a-kind ticket promotion offering all three of these world-class tournaments at one price. This is a great opportunity for Valley golf fans to enjoy these tournaments for a great value," said Scott Wood, Tournament Director of the JTBC Founders Cup.

WHAT
One single day admission ticket to three professional golf tournaments - Charles Schwab Cup Championship, Waste Management Phoenix Open  and Bank of Hope Founders Cup

WHEN
Charles Schwab Cup Championship: Friday, November 11th – Sunday, November 13th, 2016
Waste Management Phoenix Open: Monday, January 30th – Sunday, February 5th, 2017
JTBC Founders Cup: Tuesday, March 14th – Sunday, March 19th, 2017

WHERE
- Charles Schwab Cup Championship: Desert Mountain Golf Club
10550 Desert Hills Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

- Waste Management Phoenix Open: TPC Scottsdale Champions Course
17020 North Hayden Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

- Bank of Hope Founders Cup: Wildfire Golf Club at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
5350 Marriott Drive Phoenix, AZ 85054

For more information on purchasing tickets, visit their website at go.lpga.com/phxtickets.