Laguna Lăng Cô Continues to Push the Boundaries after Being Awarded EarthCheck Gold Certification


Laguna Lăng Cô remains one of Vietnam’s leading resorts and a leader in worldwide sustainable tourism by being awarded EarthCheck Gold Certification

(RELEASE) - Laguna Lăng Cô has continued to enhance its reputation as one of Vietnam’s leading resorts and a leader in environment protection, after being awarded a Gold Certification by EarthCheck, a leading scientific and environmental benchmarking, certification and advisory group for the travel and tourism industry.

Since 2013, Laguna Lăng Cô has partnered with EarthCheck to integrate scientifically proven and critically defendable systems for the benefit of environmental preservation and conservations across operations. The resort has previously been awarded ‘Silver EarthCheck Certification’ in 2016 and before that ‘Bronze EarthCheck Certification’ in 2015, which positioned the venue as a leader in a worldwide group of sustainable tourism operators.

Laguna Lăng Cô boasts an 18-hole championship golf course that is a Sir Nick Faldo Signature design, host venue of the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, and widely regarded as one of the most environmentally friendly courses in the world.

A family of water buffalo, who act as Bio-mowers, help to protect the traditional landscape, whilst managing the rice paddies by eating the excess weeds surrounding the course that would otherwise need machinery to manage. The unique nature of the course also means it provides for the local community with the rice paddies being harvested twice a year, producing up to 20 tons of rice of which the majority is donated to support local families in the area. Laguna Lăng Cô is fast-growing a reputation as one of the most spectacular and unique courses in Asia.

Gareth Williams, Director of Design & Operations at Faldo Design said, “Laguna Golf Lăng Cô is a unique destination that shows off the very best of Vietnam and provides golfers with an alternative challenge. We are delighted that all the hard work put into our Sir Nick Faldo Signature design course, to make it environmentally sustainable, has been recognised by EarthCheck through the awarding of this gold certification. Everyone associated with Faldo Design is determined to make sure that Laguna Golf Lăng Cô continues to set high standards in order to remain as an industry leader for tourism and travel. We also can’t wait to welcome all of our Faldo Series participants, in March 2020, for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final and show off what makes Laguna Golf Lăng Cô so special.”

Laguna’s four precincts, that include Banyan Tree Lang Co Hotel, Angsana Lang Co Hotel, the Laguna Lăng Cô golf course and Laguna Lăng Cô Service Centre, were assessed for meeting EarthCheck Gold Certificate requirements for five continuous years.

There are 10 key performance areas that are addressed in order to make this standard – Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Energy Efficiency, Conservation and Management, Management of Freshwater Resources, Eco-system Conversation and Management, Social and Cultural management, Land Use Planning and Management, Air Quality Protection, Wastewater Management, Solid Waste Management and Environmentally Harmful Substances.

Laguna Golf Lang Co’s Director of Golf, Adam Calver, said “We are extremely proud to have been awarded gold certification by EarthCheck. Laguna Lăng Cô focuses heavily on environmental sustainability and this certification is testament to all the hard-work and effort shown by everyone making sure the resort maintains its position as a leader in environmental stewardship for the travel, golf and tourism industry.”

Stewart Moore, CEO of EarthCheck, believes Laguna Lăng Cô in Vietnam has taken a significant leadership position in sustainability. He said: “I would like to congratulate the whole team at Laguna Lăng Cô on their achievement. Adam Calver and his team are a valued member of a global group of tourism operators who dare to make a difference. Laguna Lăng Cô have now joined other industry leaders in taking the meaningful steps towards resolving some of the very real issues that our planet faces.”

Laguna Lăng Cô is the first and largest world-class integrated resort in Vietnam and is home to a 280-hectare community, which marks the first project in Vietnam for Banyan Tree Group, and is famed for its 3km beach that overlooks the East Sea, an area renowned for its natural scenery and close proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The community includes Banyan Tree and Angsana branded hotels and spas, private villas, residences called Laguna Park Lăng Cô available for sale and rentals, conventional facilities and an array of recreational activities for guests to enjoy. It offers guests the chance to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul, whilst enjoying memorable experiences in a breath-taking location.

Founded in 1987, EarthCheck science and products were developed by the Australian Government Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre (STCRC). Their products are built on the Agenda 21 principles for Sustainable Development endorsed by 182 Heads of State at the United Nations Rio De Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992. EarthCheck has helped travel and tourism organisations to increase efficiencies, maximise guest experience and minimise their environmental footprint. EarthCheck helps organisations by providing them with the expertise needed to move forward in a world where changing regulatory environments, rapidly evolving markets and complex risk implications are a massive threat. They have completed over 40,000 performance reports, thousands of on-site audits and certified clients in more than 70 countries.

More information: lagunalangco.com

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Happy Thanksgiving from our house to yours!

@AmGolferBlog

TecTecTec Unveils Special Offers for Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Sale Includes Popular ULT-X Laser Rangefinder, ULT-G GPS Watch and More 

(Vannes, France) — TecTecTec – maker of technologically-advanced yet affordable laser rangefinders for golf, which are Amazon’s No. 1 category seller – is offering special pricing on select products in celebration of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Available exclusively through the TecTecTec website, the brand’s leading golf laser rangefinder – the ULT-X – will be on sale for $199.99 (normally $249.99) from Wednesday, November 27 through Cyber Monday, December 2. Additionally, the popular ULT-G GPS golf watch will carry a $10 discount from November 27 through December 3 on the company’s website, and the VPRO DLX laser rangefinder is on sale for just $99.99 from November 25 through December 18 on the TecTecTec website and through Amazon.com.

“Shoppers can treat themselves and save on gifts for friends and family with our seasonal specials,” says Renan Lore, Director of TecTecTec. “From top-performing rangefinders to our GPS watch – we have high-quality gear at unbeatable prices.”

Along with the holiday discounts, customers can take advantage of TecTecTec’s customary free shipping, two-year warranty and 30-day full refund guarantee offered exclusively online at www.US.TecTecTec.com.

TecTecTec is comprised of a highly talented team of industrial engineers, who are devoted to helping customers save money while providing access to some of the most tech-forward products in golf. This includes the new ULT-X, which is the most advanced rangefinder model to date. It features Target Lock Technology (TLT), which vibrates when a target is identified, as well as optional slope function. Advanced optics and state-of-the-art components provide exceptional clarity and the most precise distance readings of any rangefinder on the market – accurate plus or minus 0.3 yards up to 300 yards.

Exceptionally durable, stylish and comfortable, the new ULT-G GPS watch provides golfers quick and accurate distances to the front, middle and back of greens, as well as hazards and doglegs. Available for a one-time purchase with no subscription required, TecTecTec is giving users instant access to precise satellite-measured yardages at over 38,000 courses around the world.

More information: www.us.tectectec.com.

USGA Invites 12 Players to Curtis Cup Practice Session

Three-day session to take place at Loblolly in Hobe Sound, Fla., in December

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The USGA’s International Team Selection Committee has invited 12 players to participate in a practice session in advance of the 2020 Curtis Cup Match. The session for prospective players will take place Dec. 15-17 at Loblolly in Hobe Sound, Fla.

A biennial competition, the 41st Curtis Cup Match will be contested June 12-14, 2020, at Conwy Golf Club in Caernarvonshire, Wales. The USA Team defeated the Great Britain & Ireland Team by a record-setting 17-3 margin in the 2018 Match at Quaker Ridge Golf Club in Scarsdale, N.Y.

The following 12 players have accepted invitations to the practice session (with current college affiliation):
- Allisen Corpuz, 21, of Honolulu, Hawaii (University of Southern California)
- Mariel Galdiano, 21, of Pearl City, Hawaii (University of California, Los Angeles)
- Lauren Greenlief, 29, of Ashburn, Va.
- Lauren Hartlage, 21, of Elizabethtown, Ky. (University of Louisville)
- Auston Kim, 19, of St. Augustine, Fla. (Vanderbilt University)
- Gina Kim, 19, of Durham, N.C. (Duke University)
- Emilia Migliaccio, 20, of Cary, N.C. (Wake Forest University)
- Alexa Pano, 15, of Lake Worth, Fla.
- Kaitlyn Papp, 21, of Austin, Texas (University of Texas)
- Aneka Seumanutafa, 19, of Emmitsburg, Md. (Ohio State University)
- Natalie Srinivasan, 21, of Spartanburg, S.C. (Furman University)
- Rose Zhang, 16, of Irvine, Calif.

Two USGA champions – Greenlief (2015 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur) and Papp (2016 U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball) – are among the players who have accepted invitations. Gina Kim was the low amateur in the 2019 U.S. Women’s Open, while Galdiano is the lone player to have previously competed in a Curtis Cup Match, having played for the USA in both 2016 and 2018, compiling a 4-3 record.

Sarah Ingram, a three-time U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur champion (1991, 1993, 1994) who was a member of three USA Curtis Cup Teams (1992, 1994 and 1996), will serve as captain of the USA Team. A Duke University graduate, Ingram was a two-time All-American and four-year letter winner for the Blue Devils from 1985-1988. Ingram, who was the low amateur in the 1995 U.S. Women’s Open, is a member of the Duke University Sports Hall of Fame, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. She recently advanced to the Round of 16 in the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur, her first USGA competition in more than two decades.

“The talent level surrounding women’s amateur golf in this country is incredible, and I’m so excited to bring these 12 impressive players together for this practice session,” said Ingram. “My experience participating in three Curtis Cup Matches both fueled my competitive nature and formed lasting relationships. I am eager to help guide and be a part of that journey for a new group of young women.”

Invitation to the Curtis Cup practice session does not guarantee selection to the eight-player USA Team that will compete in June. Players not invited will also be considered for inclusion on the team. As of 2018, the USGA provides automatic selections to the reigning U.S. Women’s Amateur champion, along with the McCormack Medal winner, if eligible. Gabriela Ruffels, of Australia, the 2019 U.S. Women’s Amateur champion, is not eligible for the team, while 2019 McCormack Medal winner Andrea Lee, of Hermosa Beach, Calif., declined the invitation due to her intent to turn professional prior to the 2020 Curtis Cup Match. The USGA will automatically select the top three USA players in the Women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking on April 8, 2020. The remainder of the team will be selected the following week.

The Curtis Cup Match is contested by two teams of eight female amateur players, one from the United States of America and one from Great Britain and Ireland, which is comprised of England, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The USGA’s International Team Selection Committee selects the USA Team, while The R&A selects the GB&I Team.

Elaine Ratcliffe will serve as GB&I captain. Ratcliffe, a native of Cheshire, England, was a member of the victorious GB&I team in the 1996 Curtis Cup Match.

The USA Team leads the overall series, 29-8-3.

Arcis Golf Properties Shine on Avid Golfer Dallas 2019 'Best' List

Cowboys Golf Club Retains No. 1 Spot in Metroplex

(DALLAS) – Continuing market dominance in its hometown, Arcis Golf’s portfolio of courses in the Dallas metro area has been recognized and applauded by Avid Golfer Magazine in its annual “Best of Public Golf” edition. The accolades for Arcis Golf courses came both for courses segmented by geographic sections as well as in numerous specialty categories, including food, practice facilities, and retail.

Cowboys Golf Club, the first and only NFL-themed golf club in the world, received considerable praise as the Best Overall Golf Club.

“I know it seems repetitive, as Cowboys has been the No. 1 spot for as many years as it’s been open, but the more things change, the more they stay the same,” wrote Avid Golfer’s editors in the cover story. “Cowboys has been and is still the gold standard that all other golf properties strive to replicate.”

Other Arcis Golf notables included two courses on the west side of the Metroplex: The Golf Club at Fossil Creek (#10) and Bear Creek Golf Club (#13), as well as honorable mentions for Iron Horse and Mansfield National Golf Clubs. On the east side, Lake Park Golf Course, Plantation Golf Club, and The Golf Club at Twin Creeks received honorable mentions.

In the specialty categories, three Arcis Golf properties earned top honors:
- Next Year’s Most Anticipated Renovation – Iron Horse Golf Course
- Best Overall Food – Cowboys Golf Club
- A True Underrated Challenge – Lake Park Golf Club

Arcis Golf has skyrocketed in under six years from a small start-up to the second-largest owner and operator of private, resort, and daily fee clubs in the United States. The current Arcis Golf portfolio features nearly 65 clubs and golf courses in 14 states, positioned in or near major metropolitan areas from coast-to-coast. The company has invested more than $60 million in upgrades, amenities, personnel, training, and systems to maximize the growth and future success of its collection of private, resort, and daily-fee clubs throughout the United States.

In addition to its nine public or resort courses in the greater Dallas area, Arcis Golf purchased Lantana Golf Club earlier this year. The centerpiece of a master-planned community and designed by the venerable team of Jay and Carter Morrish, Lantana is highly regarded among the top private clubs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

An industry leader in providing inventive direction and unrivaled lifestyle amenities that complement exceptional playing experiences, Arcis Golf focuses its resources on creating extraordinary experiences and forging emotional connections with members and guests.

Arcis Golf has built a best-in-class leadership team that is reinventing the modern club experience, making it more relevant to the lifestyles of today’s consumer by customizing amenities and programs based on what its contemporary membership desires. The company is committed to enhancing service levels, amenities, and programming to further broaden the appeal for members and guests.

The company is on the Inc. Magazine 5000 list of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. As well, in 2018, CEO Blake Walker was recognized by EY as the Entrepreneur Of The Year in the hospitality category for the Southwest region.

For more about Arcis Golf, visit www.arcisgolf.com.

To read Avid Golfer Magazine’s complete “Best of Public Golf” cover story visit www.myavidgolfer.com

Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop Announces Topgolf Swing Suite Bays as Part of Expansion

Destination Kohler is first resort to offer both leading simulation technologies – Topgolf Swing Suite and aboutGolf

(KOHLER, Wis.)  – The Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop, located in the Shops at Woodlake Kohler, today announced the anticipated opening of two Topgolf Swing Suite bays along with expanded food & beverage options. The expansion is set to open on December 2 and will bring an all-new challenge to those seeking interactive social experiences, fun late-night entertainment options and unique league play.

The two Topgolf Swing Suite bays are positioned on the north side of the Swing Studio, with a convenient corridor connecting the original studio to the newly-expanded space. Each of the two bays are large enough for eight people to play, eat and socialize in a lounge setting. In addition to golf, the Topgolf Swing Suite experience boasts games such as TopContender, Zombie Dodgeball, Hockey Shots, Baseball Pitching, Carnival Classic and others. The bays will be available to rent.

The new food and beverage menu crafted by Matt Bauer, Executive Chef for Destination Kohler includes upscale pub fare with highlights including fried meatballs, an array of delicious sliders and pizzas.

“The Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop is one of the top indoor facilities in the state,” said Mike O’Reilly, Director Golf Operations – Destination Kohler. “The new Topgolf Swing Suite bays are known for their approachability and entertaining experiences – which is sure to excite both our non-golf and golf guests.”

The year-round Swing Studio opened in 2016 with two aboutGolf Simulators (aG), the official golf simulator provider of the PGA TOUR and Golf Channel. The aG Curve and aG Widescreen Simulators offer guests the opportunity to play Kohler’s top-rated courses, Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run, as well as more than 60 other notable courses. It continues to be a popular venue for local community play as well as resort guests.

The Kohler Swing Studio is available for private events, corporate outings and as a venue for celebrations – birthdays, family reunions, wedding events, retirement parties, and more. Open daily, Monday-Saturday from 10am to 10pm and Sundays from 11am to 7pm. Open golf hourly rates start at $55 per hour.

For more information on Destination Kohler’s offerings or reservations, please call 800-344-2838 or visit DestinationKohler.com.

Peter Hill Named 'Sixth Most Powerful Person' in Golf by Golf Inc.

(RESTON, Va.) – Billy Casper Golf (BCG) – the highly respected and innovative manager of over 160 golf courses in 26 states – announces Chairman and CEO Peter Hill has been ranked No. 6 on Golf Inc. magazine’s “Most Powerful People in Golf” list.

Peter Hill

Hill joins PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan, Topgolf Executive Chairman Erik Anderson and professional golfer Tiger Woods on the prestigious list. This marks the 15th consecutive year he has been named in the top-10.

Golf Inc. states: “Few companies have been as aggressive in embracing the changing face of the golf industry as Billy Casper Golf under Peter Hill’s leadership.”

This year, BCG celebrates its 30th anniversary. Hill co-founded the company in 1989 with business partner Robert Morris and PGA TOUR legend Billy Casper. Under Hill’s leadership, the company has become one of the largest privately-owned golf course management companies in the United States.

2019 highlights include:
- BCG spun off its public relations division into a separate company in February. The new holding company, Buffalo Groupe, has already acquired three companies, while BCG remains its largest shareholder.
- Embracing change in the evolving golf industry and partnering with GOLFZON for their expansion into North America under the umbrella of their new brand, ZSTRICT. A retail location in Stamford, Connecticut, ZSTRICT features 10 simulator bays for off-course enjoyment complete with real life experience, advanced data and online competitions.
- Raising over $400,000 through the World's Largest Golf Outing (WLGO) for Fisher House Foundation – a national organization providing a “home away from home” for families of patients receiving treatment at major military and VA medical centers. A simultaneous charity outing managed by BCG and conceived by Hill, WLGO has raised more than $4 million to support military charities since 2011.

“As a golf course owner and operator we have a responsibility to continue to innovate and evolve for our clients and customers,” says Hill. “Billy Casper Golf is committed to enhancing the future of the game and making it accessible to everyone.”

More information: www.billycaspergolf.com, 703.761.1444

PXG Signs GRAMMY Winning Artist & Golf Fanatic Darius Rucker

PXG and Rucker Share a Love of the Game and Relentless Pursuit of Performance

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – PXG, the bold, performance-focused golf equipment company, today announced GRAMMY award-winning artist, Darius Rucker, as its newest ambassador.

Rucker is famous for his multi-Platinum status in the music industry and loved for his down-to-earth character and generous non-profit work. He’s a musical genius on stage and a golfer at heart, making him a perfect addition to the PXG Troops.

“Darius is more than another big name sporting our clubs. He’s a friend. And, quite possibly, a bigger golf fanatic than I am,” PXG founder and CEO, Bob Parsons shared. “He is already doing great things for golf through his relationship with the PGA TOUR and I know he will do great things for PXG too. I couldn’t be more proud to have him on board.”

Brought together by shared love the game, relentless pursuit of performance, and a friendship
formed on the golf course, Rucker currently has a full set of 14 PXG clubs in play.

"I play a lot of golf, and since switching to PXG clubs I’ve gone from an 8 handicap to a 4, and I broke 70 for the first time without changing any other part of my game,” Rucker noted.

What’s in Darius’s bag?
- 0811 XF GEN2 10.5 Driver - Fujikura Speeder Evo V 569- R
- 0341 X GEN2 3 Wood - Aldila-NV2KXV-Blue-70-R
- 0317 X GEN2 19 Hybrid - Accra iSeries 80i
- 031 7X GEN2 22 Hybrid - Accra iSeries 80i
- PXG 0311P 5-9W AeroTech SteelFiber 110cw
- PXG Sugar Daddy 52° and 56° Wedge - AeroTech SteelFiber 110cw S
- PXG Romeo 60° Wedge - AeroTech SteelFiber 110cw S
- PXG Gunboat GEN2 Putter

Rucker added, “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Bob – who he is, what he has accomplished and how he operates his businesses. I particularly love what he has done for the game of golf since launching PXG. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced."

To learn more about PXG or to schedule a custom golf club fitting, visit PXG.com.

Golfballs.com Now Offering NCAA, NFL, MLB, NHL and Military Logo Merchandise

Christmas Eve Delivery Guaranteed for Orders Placed by December 18th

(LAFAYETTE, LA) – Golfballs.com – the world leader in golf customization – unveils new personalization options featuring the official team logos of universities and colleges, three major sports leagues and five branches of the United States Armed Forces, just in time for the holidays.

Licensed through Team Golf, customers can purchase top golf ball brands, ball markers, divot tools, and more featuring team logos from the NCAA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as custom options celebrating our veterans and active-duty military personnel within the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

“Holiday shoppers can celebrate the biggest sports fanatics in their lives as well as family, friends and loved ones in the service both on and off the course this season,” says Tom Cox, CEO of Golfballs.com. “Partnering with Team Golf has given us the ability to offer a wider selection than ever of the most notable logos and emblems in collegiate and professional sports, as well as the Armed Forces.”

Beyond these new offerings, golfers and gift-givers can choose from a plethora of custom options available at Golfballs.com this holiday season. This includes photo-printed balls for no upcharge, as customers simply upload a picture through the online store which is then printed directly on the make / model ball of their choice. Other gift ideas include custom text, monogram, logos, a variety of images and the AlignXL alignment aid, designed to improve accuracy on the green. Customized orders placed by December 18th are guaranteed to arrive by Christmas Eve in the U.S.

For a limited time during the holiday season, golf’s top brands are offering special pricing on their most popular golf ball models, including Titleist Pro V1, TaylorMade TP5, Callaway Chrome Soft and Bridgestone TOUR B golf balls. These popular models can be personalized free and ordered through Golfballs.com.

A variety of special holiday boxed sets are also available, featuring individual golf balls and customizable accessories, such as a Bottle Opener, Poker Chip Set, Classic Divot Tool and more. To view, check out the Golf Gifting Guide at www.golfballs.com/Golf-Gifting-Guide.html.

Over the past two decades, Golfballs.com has grown into the industry’s leading provider of custom equipment, producing nearly 100,000 personalized golf balls each week, as well as a variety of other gear. Full details on all available options can be found at Golfballs.com.

FJ Players Dominate Global Tours with Full Range of Products

(RELEASE) — FootJoy, the #1 shoe and glove in golf and on the worldwide professional tours, dominated leaderboards this weekend with the full range of shoes, gloves and apparel on display.

Different players require different products based on performance, fit and style requirements which is why FJ offers a wide range of options to suit any player.

FJ players have the flexibility to choose what suits them from the entire range of shoes, gloves and apparel which is why so many different options are represented at every tournament.

To find the golf shoe that’s best for you, visit the FJ Shoe Finder.

At the RSM Classic, FJ players occupied the top four positions, including both playoff participants - Tyler Duncan and Webb Simpson - who wore FJ from head to toe.

• Duncan, who earned his first profession victory on the second playoff hole, chooses Tour-S for ultimate underfoot stability; StaSof®, the glove chosen by more Tour players than any other for ideal fit, feel and performance, as well as FJ Apparel.

• Finishing second was Webb Simpson, who opts for the timeless, iconic style and first class craftsmanship of ICON Black™ golf shoes as well as the Pure Touch Limited glove, the standard in product leadership, innovation excellent and pure feel. Webb also wears FJ apparel from head to toe.

• Brendon Todd, winner of the previous two PGA Tour events, has worn FJ FURY since it was launched earlier this year. FJ FURY features the TruFit System that delivers stability where you need it and comfort where you want it. He also wears the Pure Touch Limited glove.

• Sebastian Munoz finished solo fourth in a prototype FJ shoe and the RainGrip® glove. RainGrip is often chosen by players who want the ultimate moisture management solution to ensure a secure grip on the club.

A woman’s version of the same prototype shoe Munoz wore was also chosen by CME Group Tour Championship winner, Set Young Kim, who captured her tenth career title and the largest payout ever for an LPGA event at $1.5 million.

And the domination continued outside the US as well where PROSL was the shoe of choice for winners on both the Asian Tour and the Japan Tour. PROSL is the best-selling shoe in golf and also the shoe chosen by more Tour players than any other for its superior feel, comfort and traction.

Jon Rahm Wins DP World Tour Championship with 14 TaylorMade Clubs and Ball

Rahm wins another Rolex Series event on the European Tour and tops the Race to Dubai rankings collecting the €5m first prize.

(Carlsbad, Calif.) - Team TaylorMade athlete, Jon Rahm, wins for the fourth time in 2019 using an M5 driver, featuring Injected Twist Face technology, a 5-layer TP5 golf ball and Spider X putter, as he collected the season-ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

With a final round of 68 and the only player to shoot four rounds in the 60s, Rahm added another Rolex Series title to take his tally to four. Rahm has now won three times a year since turning professional and joining TaylorMade in 2017.
Earlier this year, Rahm switched to the TP5 golf ball for greater spin and control with his irons and around the green, as well as adding the Spider X putter and a new MG2 60° wedge with the TW11 Tiger grind as recently as last Friday on a trip to TaylorMade HQ.

RAHM "NEED TO KNOW"
Rahm has now won the DP World Tour twice in 3 years
Has won 6 times in 15 starts (40%) on the European Tour (exc. majors/WGCs)
Rahm finished in the Top 5 in 11 of those 15 events
Now has 4 Rolex Series titles
Has won at least once a year on the European Tour since turning professional
Moves to world no.3 in the OWGR

RAHM "WHAT'S IN THE BAG"
M5 10.5° driver
M5 15° fairway
M5 19.0° fairway
P750 4-PW irons
MG Hi-Toe 52° and 56° wedges
MG2 60° with TW11 grind wedge
Spider X copper putter
TP5 golf ball (#10)
Check out Rahm's WITB here: RAHM

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
The Top 4 players in the world now trust and use TaylorMade M5 and M6 drivers featuring Twist Face technology
Three of those players all choose TaylorMade's 5-layer TP5 and TP5 golf balls

Unboxing IWON Organics Plant-Based Snacks

(VIDEO) - IWON Organics is making snacking easy with a grab-and-go collection of snacks that balance carbohydrates, fats and protein ideally in crave-worthy Protein Chips, Protein Stix and Protein Puffs. With flavors including Nacho Cheese, Mesquite BBQ, Sriracha and Sea Salt, these snacks taste like they should only be eaten on a cheat day, but each serving has at least 10g of protein and 5g of fiber with low sugar and less than 200 calories. Every IWON Organics snack is made with plant-based protein from ingredients like green peas, black beans and navy beans, and they are organic, gluten free, non-GMO, soy free, kosher and vegan.

Contact IWON Organics at www.iwonorganics.com.

Golf Life Navigators Enters Real Estate Market with Addition of PJ Smith

(NAPLES, Fla.) – Golf Life Navigators (GLN) – the world’s only virtual marketplace for consumer-to-club connections – announces noted real estate expert PJ Smith is joining its executive team as broker of record.

Boasting remarkable credentials in the real estate and digital marketing sectors, Smith has over 20 years experience both in private business ownership and real estate investing. In addition to being a realtor and licensed broker, Smith currently owns Cyber Digital Marketing Agency. She also co-founded Smartview Imaging LLC and Digital Motion X-Ray (DMX) Clinic in Florida, and worked for the State of Minnesota.

In her new position with Golf Life Navigators, Smith will be responsible for building the real estate industry’s first team of “Golf Certified Real Estate Agents,” which will specialize in understanding typical golf operations, connecting with local membership directors and building an inventory of market data for consumers to leverage during the decision process. Smith will create and lead teams of golf certified real estate agents across the country in Sun Belt markets populated with multiple club communities.

An avid golfer who has played many of the world’s best courses, Smith has won 10 private club championships and was an executive in the Minnesota Women’s Golf Association. She also attended a rules training seminar at the United States Golf Association headquarters in New Jersey.

“Leadership is so key to any successful business and Golf Life Navigators has very talented executives who know the golf lifestyle and real estate markets, as well as having proprietary data for those respective industries,” says Smith. “While doing my research and learning more about the company, I knew it would be a perfect fit.”

Research conducted by Golf Life Navigators showed that 76% of consumers plan to combine their search of club and home. These findings emphasize the need for golf certified real estate agents who work on behalf of the consumer to fine-tune the search and lay the path to a seamless transition process.

“We are ecstatic to have PJ join us and pioneer the industry’s original team of golf-centric real estate agents.” adds Jason Becker, CEO of Golf Life Navigators. “Over the past three years, we have seen a growing trend of consumers wanting to combine a search for both a golf club and home in the Sun Belt,” Becker adds, “In some cases, filtering the club communities is just the first step for consumers. A deep dive into the real estate available within a consumer’s search results can really expedite the process. One team, working on behalf of the consumer to help find their ideal club and home.”

A month ago, GLN disclosed intriguing real estate statistics on new home construction highlighted by a continued appeal to live within a golf community or near a private club. The desire for new construction by consumers in the marketplace rose 150% in 2019. For resale buyers, 57% prefer to live within a gated golf community, and their median budget increased to $510,000.

Also, statistics show demand for non-resident memberships increased almost 8% in the past two years; thus, 65% of clubs report they now have a non-resident membership option, which gives consumers the chance to build in a non-golf community and become a non-resident member.

In September, GLN also released its new consumer buying trends report showcasing industry defining data for golf communities and the private club sector. Among the key highlights of this compelling report: 94% of buyers indicate the practice facility is the top-ranked amenity within the golf operation; 46% of buyers indicate a preference to live outside the gates of golf communities, a 4% uptick since 2018; and women value the private club investment aspect as five times more important than the men surveyed.

Based in South Florida with an active presence across the U.S., GLN showcases “best-matched” potential members with golf and country club options in Florida, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, California, Texas and Georgia. GLN’s real estate experts, Golf Life Properties, identify primary and secondary residences in golf and non-golf communities.

GLN’s next generation of its marketplace provides unprecedented flexibility and access to its platform for clubs seeking exposure and connection with highly qualified prospective members. The updated GLN marketplace now features three levels of participation to provide clubs with an experience tailored to their membership recruitment needs: Marketplace Entry and Marketplace Link. Marketplace Pro will be GLN’s premier level offering clubs a series of data and analytics programming.

Its proprietary Membership Sales Solutions program assists private clubs in automating their existing sales systems, improving salesperson performance, as well as devising and systemizing personally tailored visits for prospective members. The unique and forward-looking program is a sales system with many aspects that, if desired, can be implemented, customized and fully functional within 24 hours.

Other prominent features of the Membership Sales Solutions Program include social media and digital marketing, website evaluation and recommendations, as well as executive candidate searches and prospect experience audits. The unique “Prospect Experience Audits” act as a “secret shopper” highlighting aspects where clubs both thrive and need improvement in turning tours into members.

More information: www.golflifenavigators.com 800.447.8707.

Give Ann Liguori’s Hamptons Rope Collection by Dune Jewelry for the Holidays

Collection features sand from your favorite golf course or beach, expanding collection

(Westhampton, N.Y.) — Ann Liguori, renowned sports talk show host, golf correspondent, business-woman and co-collaborator of Dune Jewelry’s Hamptons Rope Collection with Holly Daniels Christensen, the CEO & Founder of Dune Jewelry, announces the expansion of the Hamptons Rope Collection. This collection, consisting of sophisticated, handcrafted, sterling silver designs has recently expanded from six designs to twelve. The additional designs include a bracelet, earrings, and necklace in sterling silver and in 18k vermeil.

All Dune Jewelry designs can be customized with a sentimental element or sand from one’s favorite golf course, beach or travel adventure. The sand can either be selected from Dune’s  vast Sandbank you can view online (www.dunejewelry.com/sand-and-elements) or you also have the option to send in your own memory for your own custom design.

“With the success of our original Hamptons Rope designs, it only made sense to continue adding to our array of experiential jewelry using Ann's vision as our guide," says Holly Daniels Christensen, Founder & CEO of Dune Jewelry.  “Her refined style is everything this collection embodies and we are thrilled to add-on to this beautiful collection.”

Ann has also collaborated on the Dune Golf Collection (dunejewelry.com/collections/golf-jewelry-accessories) which features ball markers, divot repair tools, tie bars, cufflinks, key chain, wine stopper and more. Every design is handmade to order in the USA and most can be engraved with a meaningful message.

Liguori, who has lived on the East End of Long Island since the mid-nineties, knew how to match the sophistication and beauty of the East End of Long Island into a jewelry collection.

“Holly asked me what I love about The Hamptons and what kind of jewelry I fancy,” explained Liguori. “When I described the beautiful area and the inspirational natural surroundings, the prestigious golf courses and the scenic waterways, Holly came up with designs that perfectly reflect this breath-taking area. Each piece has roping around the circumference, giving it a nautical feel. The sand or natural element is featured in the circular center of each piece. You’ll fall in love with the designs the moment you see them. And it’s a great way to savor the memory of something very special.”

For more information and to shop the Hamptons Rope Collection visit: https://dunejewelry.com/collections/hamptons-long-island-rope-jewelry

For the golf community we have a special 10% off your order code to use online at www.dunejewelry.com: AL2019

Defeating the Odds: Reflection Bay Golf Club Named Top Golf Destination in Las Vegas

Photo: Reflection Bay Golf Club

(Henderson, Nev.) — Reflection Bay Golf Club, an award-winning Jack Nicklaus designed course, has made a comeback unlike any other. The course, which was closed during the recession and reopened in 2014, was recently recognized as the Gold Winner in the Best of Las Vegas awards. In the past two years, the course has made a comeback for the books, with improved golf course conditions, updating and expanding its clubhouse offerings, launching a golf academy with PGA Tour professionals as instructors and making overall improvements to create the resort golf experience Lake Las Vegas residents and visitors have come to expect.

“It’s very satisfying, not only to have received this recognition, but also to see how far Reflection Bay has come in the last two years,” said Eric Dutt, Reflection Bay’s manager of operations. “The club’s success is solely due to our staff members who have all worked diligently to bring the golf course back to a truly great guest experience from start to finish.”

Dutt also pointed to Raintree Investment Corporation and its leaders Cody Winterton and Patrick Parker, for re-establishing the reputation of Reflection Bay as an integral part of their real estate vision at Lake Las Vegas. Raintree currently directs the development of the 3,600-acre Henderson community, along with developments in California, Arizona and Colorado.

“The team at Raintree saw the value of providing a resort-style golf experience for a new generation of players,” Dutt said.

“Reflection Bay’s success mirrors the growth we’ve seen throughout the Lake Las Vegas community,” said Parker. “Our residents told us they wanted a world-class golf experience and we worked diligently to deliver it.”

In the last two years, Reflection Bay has become a top destination for high-profile national tournaments and world-renowned athletes. The club also offers more than just a round of golf – it announced the opening of its golf academy, The High Performance Golf Institute, last year and now coaches more than 100 junior and adult athletes.

“We’re proud to have three of the nation’s top elite junior golfers training here with our instructors,” Dutt said. “The club has come a long way in offering the best facilities, PGA Tour professional instructors, all-new technology in our golf carts and training amenities and so much more.”

To learn more about Reflection Bay Golf Club, visit www.reflectionbaygolf.com or call 702-740-4653.

PGA National Resort & Spa Unveils Cyber Week ‘Flash’ Sale

Offer Features Best Rates for 2019 - 2020 Season

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA National Resort & Spa – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation and spa destination – announces a cyber week “flash” sale with up to 25% off rooms and suites or 10% off select golf and spa packages from Friday, Nov. 22 through Monday, Dec. 2, 2019.

To receive the discount for stays through April 28, 2020, book from 9 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) on Friday, Nov. 22 to 11:55 p.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) on Monday, Dec. 2 by calling 800.863.2819.

\The exceptional cyber week “flash” sale includes all dates during PGA National’s upcoming “12 Days of PGA” which begins on Dec. 21 with a dozen continuous days of delicious dining, live entertainment and family-friendly programs culminating on New Year’s Day. The joyous events include breakfast with Santa, holiday preview collections, beauty demonstrations, holiday-inspired spa treatments, children’s activities, tennis round robins, golf clinics and much more.

Recently named in Condé Nast Traveler’s coveted 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards, PGA National is home to 90 holes of championship golf on five distinctly diverse courses including its famed Champion Course, current venue of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic. The resort has the distinction of featuring both the David Leadbetter Golf Academy and Dave Pelz Scoring Game School for its members and guests.

All guestrooms now feature 55" Samsung televisions. Plus, enjoy the “Best Sleep in The Palm Beaches” on all new Simmons Beautyrest Black NAPA Recharge mattresses in all rooms and suites complete with a luxury bedding package.

This offer is based on availability for new bookings only and not valid on existing reservations, group reservations, or with any other offer. A one-night, non-refundable deposit applies at the time of booking. For stays Dec. 24 – 31, 2019 and Feb. 24 – March 1, 2020, a two-night, non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Tax and resort fees not included. Blackout dates may apply.

For more information, visit www.pgaresort.com or call 800.863.2819.

Indi Golf Launches New Website

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) — Indi Golf, design and manufacturer of high-performance golf clubs, is pleased to announce the launch of its website at www.IndiGolfClubs.com. The new website has been designed with a new look and a more user-friendly experience.

The site features intuitive navigation to help users quickly and easily find the product and company information they need. An updated fitting guide allows golfers to answer a few questions and instantly receive suggestions for the best wedges to add to their bag. Wedge customization has also been updated to make it easier to select options. In addition to its wedges, Indi Golf’s new line of putters are prominently featured on the site.

“We are thrilled to launch our new website,” said Rob Lang, General Manager, Indi Golf. We feel it will provide visitors with engaging, easy-to-access information about our products, technology and services. Our refreshed new look mirrors the exciting direction we are taking our products and company.”

Indi Golf, which is known for its line of wedges that add more spin, more control and more fun to the short game, is introducing a new line of putters along with the website launch. The putter line includes a blade, Ramone, and a mid-size mallet, Allison, in a choice of matte black or satin chrome finishes. Both putters feature: Precision CNC milled technology; Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction with Tungsten weighting for phenomenal quality, consistency, stability, and feel; Colossal Sweet Spot Technology, which means no matter where the ball is struck on the face the ball will roll the same distance; and Toe and Heel Tungsten Weighting for increased stroke stability for unmatched consistency.

“The introduction of our putter line was the ideal time for us to launch our new website and educate golfers about our advanced Colossal Sweet Spot Technology featured in both our wedge and putter lines,” added Lang. “We are excited to expand our offerings to help more golfers improve their short game and make golf fun again.”

The putter line joins Indi Golf’s wedge line which includes StingRay, StingRay TT, ATK SR and ATK TT wedges. The StingRay TT and ATK TT wedges have been engineered with grooves which run along the entire length of the face to optimize launch, improve control, and increase spin. This design increases spin by 20% on a full swing and conforms to the Rules of Golf. The StingRay and ATK SR wedges feature large open square grooves that increase spin by 50% and do not conform to the Rules of Golf, making them ideal for recreational golfers.

All wedges are designed with Indi Golf’s proprietary ScoopBack, TractionFace, and LaunchControl technologies, maintaining Indi’s legendary forgiveness, spin, and control.

The StingRay and StingRay TT wedges feature a FLX Grind, which is Indi’s original bounce and sole configuration and is optimized for each individual loft for maximum performance. The ATK wedges are designed with more heel, toe and trailing edge relief to allow for increased shot making. This allows the player to open the face and the leading edge will remain the same distance from the ground as if in a square club face position, yielding a consistent look and increased confidence.

For more information about Indi Golf products, and to explore the new website, visit www.indigolfclubs.com.

STITCH Golf Congratulates Ambassador Brendon Todd on Capturing the 2019 Mayakoba Golf Classic

First Back to Back winner on TOUR since 2018

(Apex, N.C.) —STITCH Golf, known for designing handcrafted premium golf bags, headcovers and apparel, congratulates ambassador Brendon Todd on capturing the 2019 Mayakoba Golf Classic for his second consecutive PGA TOUR victory.

“We congratulate Brendon on winning back–to-back events on the PGA TOUR, the first player to win consecutive events on TOUR since 2018,” said Brad King, CEO of STITCH Golf.  “Getting up and down on the 72nd hole for the win secured the victory and propelled Todd to the top of the FedExCup standings. We look forward to partnering with Todd on what has already been a great 2019-2020 season.”

With over 120 PGA and LPGA professionals, including Major winners, using STITCH gear on tour, STITCH has confirmed itself as the leading provider of golf products for the world’s best golfers. The STITCH Tour Bag used by Brendon is a super luxe recognizable bag featuring colors and details that represent the STITCH brand and features STITCH’s proprietary Touring Fabric that has the strength of leather, but is more durable, lightweight and waterproof.

“This win is super special for me. This win means more to me than the last one being a full FedExCup Cup event and a full purse,” stated Todd.  “It’s just amazing how fast this game can turn around. It turned fast in the wrong direction for me in 2015, it turned fast the other direction for me, so I’m enjoying it and just going to keep grinding.”

STITCH products are available at leading golf, country clubs and select retailers around the world and at: www.stitchgolf.com.

The USGA, R&A Announce Modifications to World Amateur Golf Ranking

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. and ST ANDREWS, Scotland) — The USGA and The R&A announced the World Amateur Golf Ranking will be determined by a new system called the Power Method beginning with the first update in January 2020.

The Power Method aims to better reflect the current performance of golfers by placing greater emphasis on current form and results by improving the algorithms used to determine the WAGR.

In the new structure, every event in the world will earn a Power based on the strength of its starting field which will then determine the total number of ranking points on offer to the field. This will extend to a maximum of 1000 for amateur events with players also able to gain ranking points from playing in professional tournaments.

The Power Method can be applied to all competitive events: amateur, professional, stroke play, match play, and can also cater to formats the previous system would not accommodate, such as Stableford.

Ranking points will be allocated to players based on their overall finishing position in the tournament rather than on the previous round-based allocation.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Power Method which will significantly improve the World Amateur Golf Ranking,” said Jeff Holzschuh, Chairman of the WAGR Committee. “We have listened to feedback about WAGR since its inception and we believe this change addresses many of the challenges within the previous system.”

Professor Steve Otto, Director of Equipment Standards and Chief Technology Officer for The R&A, commented, “The simplicity and elegance of the revised WAGR system will be of great benefit to competitive players at every level.

“It will be easier for players to become ranked under the Power Method but with the system recognizing current form and rewarding recent top results it will be tougher to remain ranked compared to the previous system.

“The Power Method will make WAGR a true indication of the ranking of the world’s best and leading amateur golfers.”

To ensure WAGR is truly representative of the current competitive environment, event aging will also be introduced as part of the Power Method to best reflect and reward players’ current form. Points from events within the most recent 52 weeks of a player’s record will count at full value. From there, event points will reduce proportionately, approximately two percent, per week before their removal after 104 weeks.

The divisors under the Power Method will also become event based versus the previous round-based divisor scheme. Like the points, divisors will also be aged after 52 weeks. The new minimum divisors will be seven for women and eight for men. Due to the aging of points and divisors under the Power Method, unlike the previous system, minimum divisors will be the same for newly ranked and long-established players.

“We are grateful to our colleagues at The R&A for their work in developing this effort and their partnership in bringing it to life,” said John Bodenhamer, USGA Senior Managing Director, Championships.

“As we have begun to discuss the upcoming changes to WAGR with various constituents, we have received great feedback and believe this will be very warmly received by players and event organizers.”

For more information, visit usga.org and randa.org.

Special ‘5th Anniversary Package’ at Quivira Golf Club

Experience showcases world-class golf, superb accommodations, VIP perks

(Los Cabos, Mexico) – To commemorate the 2014 debut of Quivira Golf Club, the epic Jack Nicklaus-designed course etched across a dazzling site at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts has put together a special package for golf enthusiasts.

Opened to acclaim on Dec. 4, 2014, the Jack Nicklaus Signature course at Quivira has been recognized as one of the finest resort venues in the hemisphere. It has been voted to Golf Digest’s elite roster of the “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” and is ranked No. 2 on Golfweek’s list of the “Top 50 Courses in the Caribbean and Mexico.”

Created as an exclusive amenity for guests of Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts and Quivira Los Cabos residents, the bold risk-reward design, marked by sheer granite cliffs, massive windswept dunes and rolling desert foothills, features breathtaking views and dizzying drops from tee to fairway. In a sun-splashed destination celebrated for its unique ocean-desert-mountain ecosystem, Quivira boasts more oceanfront exposure than any other course in town. This 7,085-yard, par-72 tour de force presents an unforgettable test from any set of tees and offers players the biggest “wow” factor in Cabo.

“Our team worked with the canvas Mother Nature provided to create what we hope is one of the most spectacular courses in the world,” Nicklaus said when the course opened five years ago. “This property afforded us a rare opportunity because of its topographic diversity and natural environment.”

Completing the experience at Quivira Golf Club is a stylish, thatched-roof clubhouse that offers a large rectangular bar, a casual steakhouse and ample outdoor seating overlooking the sea. Adjacent to the clubhouse is a spacious double-ended driving range that parallels the ocean within earshot of the thudding surf. There’s also an elongated practice putting green and a short-game practice area.

In addition to two rounds of golf and deluxe accommodations at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort, an adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront property located within Quivira Los Cabos, a range of enticing perks and amenities boosts the appeal of the ‘5th Anniversary Package.’

Course Primer. Players are treated to a ‘local knowledge’ briefing before the round by director of golf Antonio Reynante and his staff on how to play the course successfully. Topics include proper tee selection for one’s ability level and prudent risk-reward strategy at key holes.
Hole-in-One Sweepstakes. Make an ace at the par-3 ninth hole, and you’ll win a complementary 7-night VIP golf vacation for four players at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica and Quivira Golf Club. Anniversary Cocktail. At the beachfront Quivira Clubhouse, players can toast the club’s 5th birthday with a special “Cocktel” created by the staff’s expert mixologists: Pitaya soda, vodka and Damiana infusion, mango foam with smoked morita pepper salt.
Anniversary Dish. The culinary team at the Quivira Clubhouse has created a unique Baja dish made with locally sourced ingredients to celebrate the club’s anniversary.  This exceptional “Platillo” is composed of braised octopus with shrimp from the Sea of Cortes, chickpea hummus, pickled kabuchi and red onion.
Golfer’s Massage. The ‘5th Anniversary Package’ package also includes a one-hour Golfer’s Massage at Pacifica’s award-winning Armonia Spa. The treatment, designed to relieve tension and fatigue, also heals and stimulates sore muscles. The spa’s exclusive line of organic products is used in all body treatments.
Sunset Golf Cart Tour. Traveling with non-golfers who want to see for themselves what all the fuss is about? The package features a nightly Sunset Golf Cart Tour that transports guests from sea level to the Cliffs comfort station, an exalted perch 275 feet above the thrashing surf. The cart tour also swings by the old lighthouse (circa 1905) and stops at the Oasis for complimentary refreshments.

Pricing for the ‘5th Anniversary Package’ starts at $2,367 per person for a deluxe room at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica or at $3,605 for a Private Pool Suite at The Towers at Pacifica, double occupancy, depending on dates and choice of accommodations. The package offer runs from now through April 30, 2020, subject to availability.

For additional information or to book the 5th Anniversary Package, call 1-800-990-8250. For more information regarding Quivira Golf Club and Pueblo Bonito Resorts, visit www.quiviraloscabos.com and www.pueblobonito.com.

Giants Ridge Unveils Gift Cards for the Holiday Season

(BIWABIK, Minn.) – Giants Ridge – the Upper Midwest’s leading golf resort set in the rugged beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range – offers gift cards perfect for those visiting the award-winning resort.

During and through the holidays, Giants Ridge presents gift cards valid for dining, shopping, skiing, lodging and other recreation opportunities at the resort. The gift cards, which are available in any denomination, can be purchased online at www.giantsridge.com.

“We offer everything needed for a fun getaway – no matter the season – and the gift cards are perfect presents for anyone planning to visit Giants Ridge,” says General Manager Fred Seymour. “Recipients can use these toward any of our winter or summer activities, or for dining, shopping or lodging throughout the resort. They make the perfect gift for those wishing to wrap experiences instead of presents this holiday season.”

Earlier this year, Giants Ridge placed 11th in the Best Resorts For Families category in GOLF Magazine’s inaugural ranking of North America’s Top 100 Golf Resorts. The rankings were based on the publication’s online poll of 3,700 golfers rating 243 resorts in North America on categories such as golf experiences, accommodations, service, food and ambiance.

A convenient three-hour drive along I-35 from the Minneapolis – St. Paul metro area, Giants Ridge boasts two of the highest-ranked layouts in state, The Quarry and The Legend. The aptly-named Quarry is built on the site of a former sand quarry and iron ore mine, and dramatically raised tees and hazards provide dramatic Iron Range vistas. Carved out of the Superior National Forest, The Legend is a true “northwoods” course featuring towering pines, giant fairways and majestic views of Wynne and Sabin Lakes.

Besides its two award-winning golf layouts, Giants Ridge offers numerous crystal-clear lakes, rivers and streams ideal for swimming, boating and fishing. Hiking and biking trails also cut through the towering pines of the Iron Ridge, and chairlift rides offer breathtaking views of the stunning Iron Range.

Giants Ridge is also revered as the Midwest’s top-rated skiing and snowboard hotspot. Snow adventures abound with 35 downhill ski runs, over 60 km of fine-groomed Nordic ski trails (which once served as Olympic training grounds) and some of Minnesota’s hottest snowboarding terrain parks.

For more information: www.giantsridge.com, 1.800.688.7669

NBC Sports Group Acquires EZLinks Golf, Expanding Digital Portfolio of Golf-Related Lifestyle Businesses

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – NBC Sports Group today announced it has acquired EZLinks Golf, a PGA TOUR-affiliated company, including its online tee time marketplace for golfers and its technology platforms, business solutions and customer service for golf course partners. The addition of EZLinks will complement NBC Sports Group’s existing portfolio of golf-related lifestyle brands dedicated to enhancing the golf experience though technology, including GOLF Business Solutions, GOLFNOW, and GOLFPASS.

“As an innovative leader that is at the intersection of golf and technology, NBC Sports continues to invest in our portfolio of golf lifestyle businesses to better serve golfers and golf courses,” said Will McIntosh, executive vice president, NBC Sports Digital and Consumer Business. “Incorporating the technology and services of EZLinks into the comprehensive digital solutions we already offer will enhance our ability to help golf courses operate more efficiently and make the game more accessible for golfers.”

For more than 20 years, EZLinks has provided software and services that power the unique operations and marketing needs of the golf industry, as well as TeeOff, an online tee time marketplace for golfers. EZLinks brings deep experience in working with independent golf course operators and management companies, as well as resorts, municipalities, and private clubs, and its addition will further bolster GOLF Business Solutions’ comprehensive offerings for golf course partners.

“Like GOLFNOW, EZLinks has been committed to maintaining an open platform for golf operators,” said Gary Cohen, chief executive officer of EZLinks Golf. “The combination of our two organizations will only enhance that shared commitment as we work more closely together to serve the needs of our clients and golfers everywhere.”

NBC SPORTS’ PORTFOLIO OF DIGITAL BUSINESSES ARE DRIVING INNOVATION AT THE INTERSECTION OF SPORTS AND TECHNOLOGY 

“Simply put, our strategy is to make golf more accessible, simpler and more enjoyable to play by using tech and services that help better connect golfers and golf courses,” said Jeff Foster, senior vice president, GOLFNOW and Emerging Businesses. “Teeoff and EZLinks Golf will round out our comprehensive portfolio designed to help courses elevate the golf experience at their venues and to better serve needs of the modern golfer.”

NBC Sports’ portfolio of lifestyle businesses is tailored to the specific needs of passionate participants and valued partners looking to enhance the experience of playing sports:
GOLF Business Solutions offers course partners access to a portfolio of business-to-business solutions and technology, highlighted by:
- G1 and GOLFNOW Reservations, which are golf course management and point-of-sale platforms developed for courses’ technology needs.
- GOLFNOW Central, which provides marketing, engagement and reputation solutions.
- GOLFNOW Payments platform, which allows a golf course to seamlessly accept every form of payment from everywhere at their facility.
- GOLFNOW, an online tee time marketplace featuring more than 6,000 golf courses in 24 countries, making it easy for golfers to find a course that best fits their taste, budget and needs. GOLFPASS+ members receive additional Play benefits, including no booking fees, cancellation protection and 25% more rewards points.
- GOLFPASS digital membership program, co-founded with Rory McIlroy, which offers exclusive benefits and perks encompassing the things golfers love to do most – Play, Learn, Shop, Travel, Watch. Now available in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, and Australia.
- Shop with GOLF, an e-commerce platform giving golfers new ways to engage with their favorite brands, shows, personalities and content, and an integral part of GOLFPASS’ Shop benefits. The platform is a partnership with NBCUniversal Ad Sales.
- SportsEngine, the leading provider of Sport Relationship Management software, serves more than 1.2 million sports teams and 40,000 sports leagues, resulting in 16 million coaches, parents and athletes using the platform. SportsEngine is the largest integrated amateur sports technology platform in the world and provides SportsEngine Safety, the largest youth sports background screening and abuse prevention training company in the market.
- NBC Sports Gold, a direct-to-consumer live streaming product, features tailored passes across Premier League, PGA TOUR Live, Notre Dame Football, cycling, track and field, snow sports, ice skating, rugby, - Pro Motocross, and Premiere Lacrosse League. NBC Sports Gold is powered by Playmaker Media and is available on Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex, Apple iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast and online at NBCSportsGold.com.
- Rotoworld, the industry leader in fantasy sports information as the highest-trafficked site, which features news, headlines, fantasy columns and premium draft kits via the web, the NBC Sports mobile website, Rotoworld Fantasy News app and two paid Draft Guide mobile apps for football and baseball.

Indi Golf Introduces New Line of Putters

(VISTA, Calif.) — Indi Golf, design and manufacturer of high-performance golf clubs, introduces two new putter designs to its arsenal of short game improvement clubs. The new putter options include Allison, a face-balanced mid-size mallet, and Ramone, a toe-hang blade. These will be available for pre-sale starting immediately.

“After designing wedges for the past few years, the putter category was the most logical next step for us in our mission to help golfers make their short game their best game,” said Rob Lang, General Manager, Indi Golf. “We’ve been developing the technology for these putters for over a year now and we’re confident they will help golfers make more putts. We’re excited to finally introduce them.”

Allison features a double-bend shaft that creates a perfectly face-balanced putter for the player that uses a straight back, straight through putting stroke. Ramone was designed with a 30-degree toe-hang, which is ideal for a player that favors an arced putting stroke.

Features of the high-performance Allison and Ramone putters include:
- Precision CNC milled for phenomenal quality, exceptional feel and feedback
- Constructed from Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Toe and heel tungsten weighting for increased stroke stability and feel for unmatched consistency.
- Colossal Sweet Spot Technology, which eliminates miss- No matter where the ball is struck on the face, the ball will roll the same distance.

The putters are currently available for pre-sale at www.indigolfclubs.com. The MSRP is $449.99 and during the pre-sale the price is $329.99.

The putters are available with matte black or satin chrome finishes in 33”, 34” or 35” lengths. Indi Golf offers the Lamkin Deep Etched Pistol putter grip as their standard offering. Golfers can also select a Super Stroke Traxion Tour 2.0, Traxion Pistol GT Tour or Traxion Claw 2.0 grip, Golf Pride and other Lamkin grips for an upcharge. For more information, visit www.indigolfclubs.com.

Christmas Comes Early with BIG MAX

(RELEASE) — Europe’s leading push cart and golf bag brand BIG MAX are celebrating Christmas early this year with the introduction of holiday deals on three of their award winning push carts and bags, starting on Black Friday.

The award winning BLADE Quattro push cart from BIG MAX combines 4-wheel stability and Fold Flat technology to deliver unrivalled levels of practicality on the course, in the car and stored away at home. And when purchased in White/Red this holiday season, BIG MAX will gift a Rainsafe full bag waterproof cover and Quick Lok Towel accessory worth $64.49 absolutely free.

A host of features such as footbrake, organizer panel, storage compartment and height adjustable handle complete this stylish practical package, making it the perfect gift for the golfer in your life or yourself.

The lightweight AQUA golf bag line from BIG MAX is 100% waterproof, featuring sealed seams and waterproof zippers that keep golfer’s gear dry, whatever the weather. And this holiday season BIG MAX are offering another layer of protection with a free AQUA Umbrella worth $39.99 with every Aqua Sport 2 cart bag and Aqua Wave stand bag.

The AQUA Sport 2 cart bag features a 9.5-inch organizer top with 14 full length dividers, 7 spacious pockets, oversize putter well for large grips and an ultra-light weight of just over 5 lbs.  The AQUA Wave stand bag has an 8 ½” top that extends into 4 full length dividers and features 6 waterproof pockets, air channel straps and an ultra-light weight of just over 4lbs. Both bags are packed with features and come in a range of colors suited to every type of golfer. With added protection from matching umbrella, BIG MAX Aqua really has you covered this Christmas.

To purchase, visit www.us.bigmaxgolf.com.

BLADE Quattro: $299.99
Aqua Sport 2: $299.99, available in Black/silver, Charcoal/Black/Red, Silver/Black/Cobalt, Red/Black/Silver, Navy/Black/Silver
Aqua Wave: $249.99 available in Black, Red, Yellow, White/Orange, Petrol

For more information about BIG MAX, visit www.us.bigmaxgolf.com/.

Sir Nick Faldo Marks 10 Years of Knighthood by Injecting New Energy into the Faldo Brand

The new logo and brand motif will mark the start of a new era for Faldo Series and Faldo Design

(Windsor, UK) — Sir Nick Faldo, the most successful British golfer of all time with six Major titles, is celebrating a decade of knighthood by giving his Faldo Enterprises brand a complete facelift.

Launched 10 years after being invited to “Arise, Sir Nick” by Queen Elizabeth II in 2009, the new logo and modernised branding will be rolled out across all of Faldo’s business operations, including his global juniors’ programme, the Faldo Series, and golf course design business, Faldo Design.

The contemporary logo design retains the trademark Faldo shield and six stripes which have become synonymous with the Faldo brand.  The shield represents heritage, knighthood and the symbol of a champion, whilst the stripes represent Sir Nick’s six Major Championship wins in order of occurrence. The claret stripes signify Open Championship wins in 1987, 1990 and 1992, with green representing Faldo’s Masters victories in 1989, 1990 and 1996.

Golf fans will first see the new logo featured across branding for the Faldo Series, set up by Sir Nick after his last Masters win in 1996, and widely recognised as the only global amateur series for junior boys and girls.  Now spanning Europe, Asia and America, with 40 events taking place in 30 countries worldwide each year, the Series supports Sir Nick’s vision to give young people opportunities through golf and to help identify and nurture the next generation of champions.  Over 40,000 boys and girls have competed since its inception.

The launch coincided with the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final, which took place this week at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in Abu Dhabi.  Sir Nick attends every Grand Final of the Faldo Series and speaking from Al Ain, he said: “The new logo and brand design marks the start of the next stage for Faldo Enterprises. Businesses evolve, so I felt it was an important transformation to undertake, especially with the ventures we have in the pipeline for Faldo Enterprises.  For me, the new logo also acts as a celebration – it’s 10 years since I received my knighthood, we’ve got the 23rd edition of the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final and some exciting course design projects happening, so what better time to make the Faldo brand even more visible across the globe.”

Faldo Design is an award-winning international golf course design firm, with an emphasis on strategy and memorability. With more than 50 design projects around the world, either open for play or in development, Faldo Design creates courses that respect and sit in harmony with the natural environment.  The firm’s most notable current project is the Sir Nick Faldo Signature design in Pakistan, Rumanza Golf Club, which will see construction of the country’s first ever championship golf course.  Faldo’s Signature work will also receive a new logo.

Sir Nick was helped with his redesign by Performance54, specialist global golf sales and marketing agency, who are also reputable for their expertise in services such as PR & Communications, Trade Strategies, Brand Development & Design, Content Production and Digital Marketing.

To find out more about the Faldo Enterprises brands visit: www.nickfaldo.com.

Michigan PGA Section Awards BOYNE Golf Academy’s Mike Fay 2019 Player Development Award

(Petoskey, Mich.) — Acclaimed golf instructor and BOYNE Golf Academy Director of Player Performance Mike Fay was recently chosen to receive the Michigan Section PGA’s 2019 Player Development Award. The award recognizes a PGA professional who has displayed extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievement in the area of player development. An innovator across multiple media platforms and with students of all ages, Fay has built a reputation as one of the most trusted golf coaches in Michigan and beyond.

“To receive the recognition for player development from my peers means everything to me. My fellow PGA professionals understand the long hours that go into building a successful instruction business and serving a loyal clientele,” Fay says. “We have an amazing staff at the BOYNE Golf Academy and unmatched support from our management and ownership, so it’s a blessing to share this honor with them.”

This is the second time the Michigan PGA Section has awarded Fay the Player Development Award, having also singled him out in 2016. This award also considers the PGA Professional’s growth of the game leadership, commitment at the Section and National levels in the player development arena, and the meaningful impact made at the facility. Fay, a three-time Northern Michigan Teacher of the Year, is a tireless educator and is prolific across video, social media and interactive platforms. His weekly “Mike Fay Golf Show,” which is promoted as “Golf’s Most Interactive Online Show,” can be seen live at 9pm Eastern on YouTube, Facebook and Periscope.

Fay has been named one of the best teachers in Michigan by Golf Digest, a U.S. Kids Golf Top-50 Lifetime Master Kids Teacher, a Future Champions Golf Top-25 Junior Elite Instructor. In 2012, he was Michigan’s first and only “Golf Channel Swing Fix” instructor.

The Michigan native has 25 years of teaching experience and has become a leader in the world of golf instruction. Fay received a degree in professional golf management the University of New Mexico in 1996 and become a PGA member in 1997. One of Fay’s many special interests is in developing junior golfers. He serves on the board of The First Tee of Northern Michigan and runs year-round programming for young golfers, including a beginning “Learn the Game” program, a Drive, Chip & Putt Training Camp, an advanced Nike junior Golf Camp and the Boyne Mountain Junior Cup, a unique tournament series that is driven by a season-long points race.

“Getting entire families to play golf is important to me. If kids get hooked on the game, there’s a good chance they’ll influence their parents and siblings to play with them,” Fay says. “I want kids to have so much fun in our programs that they don’t even realize they’re learning golf. The game should always be fun first, so that’s a huge emphasis in our programs.”

Fay and the BOYNE Golf Academy can improve every aspect of a golfer’s game from short game to the long game utilizing the top state of the art teaching technology including Trackman and GEARS Club and Body Tracking System. Guests can also learn from the best instructors through weekly resort clinics and customized private and group lessons.

“Mike Fay is the consummate golf instructor and an exemplary ambassador for the game,” says Boyne Resorts’ Vice President of Golf and Resort Sales Bernie Friedrich, recipient of the Michigan PGA Section’s 2019 Bill Strausbaugh Award. “We’re very proud that Mike has spent more than a decade building his teaching career here at Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highlands and continues to be the kind of leader the golf industry needs.”

The BOYNE Golf Academy, one of the leading golf instruction schools in the country and part of Boyne Resorts, has been named an Editor’s Choice Award by Golf Digest as one of the Best Golf Schools & Academies. The BOYNE Golf Academy has been one of the top golf schools in the country since 1986. Based at both Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highlands, the academy features nationally recognized professional instructors who have developed a variety of programs for juniors, adults, and ladies of all skill levels.

For more information, visit BOYNEGolf.com.