Golf Range Association of America Ranks the Practice Facility at Deerpath Golf Course Among the Best

(LAKE FOREST, Illinois) – Deerpath Golf Course has been recognized as a Top 50 Public Range as part of the 2021 Golf Range Association of America (GRAA) Awards. This marks the first time Deerpath has been honored with this award.

“It is an honor to have Deerpath Golf Course recognized for its commitment to providing a premier practice facility,” said Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry at The City of Lake Forest, Sally Swarthout. “This award recognizes Deerpath Golf Course and our city’s commitment to bringing residents and community members together through the game of golf.”

“We are proud to join other premier public golf facilities on this list of top public ranges,” said Patrick O’Donoghue, general manager at Deerpath. “With the addition of The Lawn to our practice facility, we are excited to continue inspiring the local community to learn the game of golf and refine their skills.”

The Deerpath Golf Course driving range features a beautifully kept grass tee hitting area with target greens to simulate on-course shot making. The facility broke ground on The Lawn in July 2021 and is slated to open in July 2022. The Lawn covers more than 30,000 square feet, consisting of a world-class bentgrass putting and chipping experience providing practice options for both novice and avid players alike. The Lawn’s impressive footprint will offer an 18-hole putting course and three-hole chipping course and is surrounded by a 15-foot chipping fairway surface and synthetic practice tee stations. Deerpath Golf Course will be one of the only municipally owned facilities to feature such a world-class amenity, making the course a destination for golfers across the Chicagoland area and beyond. 

Every year the GRAA honors the top 50 ranges and practice facilities that cater to the public golfer, the private facilities that serve an exclusive membership, and those that offer a stand-alone experience. Criteria for the top 50 looks at each facility’s amenities and services, technology integration, clinics and workshops, revenue and more.

Sepp Straka Wins First PGA Tour Event Wearing SQAIRZ Golf Shoes

(WINDHAM, N.H.) — SQAIRZ, the fastest growing golf shoe company, congratulates SQAIRZ Brand Ambassador, Sepp Straka, for winning his first PGA Tour Event. The Honda Classic is the first PGA Tour Event won by an athlete wearing the new SQAIRZ golf shoes.

Straka made birdies on holes 14, 16, and 18 to shoot 66 and best Shane Lowry by a single stroke. Straka ranked first in strokes gained off-the-tee and gained nearly five shots on the field. His combined distance (310-yard average) and accuracy (a field-leading 83.9% fairways hit) led him to his inaugural PGA Tour win.

After his massive 334-yard drive on the 18th hole, the longest drive of the week, SQAIRZ served Straka well as the rain began to fall, allowing him to nail his second shot and putt to secure the birdie and the win. SQAIRZ’s traction, waterproof material, stability, and comfort all came into play during that 18th hole.

When asked about his victory, Sepp Straka responded, “I can’t believe what a difference my SQAIRZ made on the 18th hole. Even with the poor conditions I was still able to get great traction to hit that great drive and nail that six iron, setting up the winning birdie.”

After hearing Sepp’s comment, Bob Winskowicz, the Founder and CEO of SQAIRZ responded, “That’s great testament to the performance of our new Speed golf shoes and we’re so glad to have been a part of this tremendous moment. All of us at SQAIRZ would like to congratulate Sepp on his amazing come from behind victory.”

For his win, Sepp Straka took home the winner’s share of the 8 million dollar purse, $1.44 million. Not only was this Straka’s first PGA Tour Event win, this is also the first time an Austrian has won a PGA Tour Event. Straka has moved up to 14th on the current FedExCup points list and has secured his place in the Masters Tournament in April 2022. This first PGA Tour Event won by an athlete wearing SQAIRZ golf shoes comes on the heels of John Daly and son’s Champions Tour victory at the recent PNC Championship.

For more information, visit sqairz.com.

Announcing the Pete Dye World Golf Championships

(RELEASE) — A novel golf tournament honoring one of the great names in golf course architecture will provide golfers around the globe an opportunity to compete for a world championship.

The Pete Dye World Golf Championships is a new competition to determine the best golfers from the toughest golf courses in the world. Golfers will be playing for the “Pete and Alice Dye Trophy.”

The competition will include two phases. Local qualifiers will be held at any course designed by a member of the Pete Dye family. These one-day, stroke-play tournaments will produce the top four players in one or all six divisions of the tournament. The divisions are: Men’s Net and Gross, Women’s Net and Gross, Senior Men’s Net and Gross. There will also be team best ball formats and a pro-am.

Winners of the local qualifiers conducted at Dye-designed courses will advance to the Word Finals, set for Oct. 23-25 at Pete Dye Golf Club in Bridgeport, WV, which Dye himself called “My best 18 holes on one golf course.” Competition at the World Finals will be two-day Individual Stroke Play and Team Best Ball and Pro-Am. The private Pete Dye Golf Club has been ranked among the top 100 courses in the world.

Benefits for Dye-designed courses hosting a local qualifier are numerous. The competition provides fun for members while generating revenue for the club. These are turn key, branded events with national exposure, marketing support, an operations manual and trophies provided for local winners.

“There is a threefold purpose to this tournament,” said Phil Immordino of the Pete Dye World Golf Championships. “It serves as a tribute to Pete and Alice Dye, allowing their legacy to live on. Two, it will determine the best golfers on the toughest golf courses in the world. And three, a portion of the proceeds will raise money for Alzheimer’s research and treatment.”

Local Dye-designed clubs will charge entry fees into the qualifying tournaments. A portion of those fees will be used to cover the cost of sending the qualifying players to the World Championship. The more teams a club sends to the World Championship, the less the cost is per team, starting at $7,500 for one team, then dropping to $7,000 per team for two teams, and $6,500 per team for three teams.

For the World Championship there is onsite housing – 32 rooms available for 64 people. All rooms have two beds, private bathroom, and shared living space between 4 rooms. Single Occupancy - $325/person/night, Double Occupancy - $225/person/night. There will also be a wide range of offsite hotels available from $100 to $150 per night including: Hampton Inn, Wingate, Springhill Suites, Hilton Garden, Townplace Suites, Hawthorne Suites, Holiday Inn Express and others.

For more details, go to: www.petedyecup.com

PGA TOUR Announces Content and Sales Agreement with GolfWRX

TOUR, GolfWRX commit to enhancing equipment related coverage through 2026

(PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA) – The PGA TOUR and GolfWRX announced the signing of a content and sales agreement that will support GolfWRX’s creation of increased equipment coverage at PGA TOUR events through 2026.

As part of the agreement, GolfWRX will leverage assistance from the PGA TOUR in developing an enhanced equipment content strategy, while providing GolfWRX with on-site video footage captured from its tournaments, focused on equipment played by PGA TOUR members. The PGA TOUR will represent sales and marketing opportunities for both properties as well as advertising operations for GolfWRX.

“The PGA TOUR and GolfWRX are committed to creating compelling and unique content for golfers and golf fans around the world,” said Jeff Tomback, PGA TOUR Vice President, Media Sales. “Equipment related coverage is extremely popular with golf fans and this relationship will enable us to deliver more robust content. This new arrangement will increase the amount of content dedicated to equipment used by the best players in the world each week on the PGA TOUR.”

Founded in 2005, GolfWRX has had a long tradition of putting its audience first and working with the PGA TOUR will further its aim to provide the golf public with increased access to the in-depth and objective coverage its readers expect. Every month, millions of golfers and golf fans trust GolfWRX for their information including an active user forum, breaking TOUR and original equipment manufacturer news throughout the golf season.

“The PGA TOUR is no doubt the world’s premier golf organization, and we couldn’t be more excited to join forces with them,” said GolfWRX founder, Richard Audi II. “Together, we can become the world’s largest online golf platform and continue to grow the game and the coverage of its tournaments and athletes.”

Enhanced TOUR coverage will start immediately through all GolfWRX digital platforms. Sign up to become a GolfWRX member today.

Follow GolfWRX on GolfWRX.com, Forums, and on social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter as well as Podcasts.

USGA Announces Entry Process, Field Composition and Format for 1st U.S. Adaptive Open

Entries open today for inaugural championship at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club on July 18-20, 2022

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced additional details regarding the U.S. Adaptive Open – a new national championship that will showcase the world’s best golfers with disabilities – including information on the entry process, field composition and competition format. 

The U.S. Adaptive Open will serve as the association’s 15th national championship, joining such iconic longstanding events as the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur. Champions of this new event will see their names recorded in the annals of golf history alongside many of the game’s storied figures. It will be held July 18-20 at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club’s Course No. 6. 

“The USGA has long been committed to providing the world’s greatest golfers a platform to showcase their skills, and we are proud to give the adaptive golf community the same opportunity to compete for a national championship,” said John Bodenhamer, USGA senior managing director, Championships. “Pinehurst will serve as a wonderful backdrop as these incredible athletes compete to leave their mark on this great game.” 

Entries into the championship open today, Feb. 28, and close on Wednesday, May 4, with the final field to be posted on May 18. Eligibility is open to both male and female professional and amateur golfers with a World Handicap System (WHS) Handicap Index® of 36.4 or less and an eligible impairment confirmed by a WR4GD Pass. Those interested in applying to play can do so at usaoc.usga.org. 

The field will include 96 players, with at least five male players and two female players per impairment category. Impairment categories are: 

- Arm Impairment 

- Leg Impairment 

- Multiple Limb Amputee 

- Vision Impairment 

- Intellectual Impairment 

- Neurological Impairment 

- Seated Players 

- Short Stature 

A player’s individual Handicap Index will be the primary factor for determining the field. Additionally, up to 20 spots will be filled by a USGA Selection Committee to assure representation from key demographics. 

The championship will be contested over 54 holes of stroke play. Multiple sets of tees will be utilized. Carts will be permitted for all players and caddies. 

In addition to determining overall male and female champions and runners-up, there will be a male and female winner in each impairment category. 

Additional information on the U.S. Adaptive Open can be found here. 

To learn more, visit usga.org. 

All-Star Field Set For Seventh Annual Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship

70 of the Tournament’s 90 Players Enjoy a Top 100 Ranking

(MURRELLS INLET, S.C.) — The seventh annual Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship presented by LA Golf, which will be played March 4-6 at TPC Myrtle Beach, will again feature one of the strongest fields in youth golf.

A 54-hole, college-style event, 90 players (60 boys, 30 girls) secured invitations to the DJ World Junior, including some of America’s premier young talent. On the boys side, 44 of the 60 players are ranked among America’s top 100 by either Golfweek or Junior Golf Scoreboard, while 26 of the 30 girls are top 100 players.

The boys field will be headlined by Ben James (Milford, Ct.), America’s No. 1, according to Junior Golf Scoreboard, No. 4 Luke Clanton (Hialeah, Fla.), and No. 7 Johnathan Griz (Hilton Head, S.C.). All three players are seniors and have signed to play collegiate golf - James at the University of Virginia, Clanton at Florida State University, and Griz at the University of Alabama.

The girls field will be headlined by junior Bailey Shoemaker (Dade City, Fla.), America’s third-ranked girl, No. 13 Gianna Clemente (Warren, Ohio) and No. 33 Alice Zhao.

“We can’t wait for America’s premier juniors to challenge themselves at the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship,” tournament director Scott Tomasello said. “The goal when we launched this tournament, with Dustin’s unwavering support, was to make it America’s premier junior event, and we believe we are close to fulfilling that goal.”

With Johnson’s support, the tournament provides players a PGA Tour-like experience, and the opportunity to test themselves against a premier field.

A significant part of the event’s appeal is TPC Myrtle Beach, one of the Grand Strand’s most decorated layouts. TPC Myrtle Beach has hosted the Senior PGA Tour Championship and been ranked among “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest, making it an ideal venue to test golf’s rising young stars. 

The Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship is being sponsored by LA Golf, Founders Group International, the Dustin Johnson Golf School, and Golf Tourism Solutions.

Johnson’s involvement with the tournament reflects his long-time commitment to junior golf, particularly in South Carolina, where he grew into one of the world’s best players. Through the Dustin Johnson Foundation, which is headquartered in Myrtle Beach, Johnson has donated more than $500,000 to junior golf, sponsoring numerous events throughout the state and helping cover entry costs for kids who need financial assistance.

For more information, visit www.worldjuniorgolfchampionship.com.

Zach Johnson Named United States Captain for 2023 Ryder Cup

Ryder Cup veteran will lead U.S. in pursuit of second straight victory; Steve Stricker to serve as U.S. Vice Captain; Selection criteria for 2023 U.S. Ryder Cup Team also announced

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA of America President Jim Richerson today announced that Zach Johnson will serve as the United States Ryder Cup Team Captain for the 44th Ryder Cup, which will be played September 25-October 1, 2023, at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome, Italy. 

Johnson becomes the 30th U.S. Captain since the Ryder Cup’s inception in 1927.   

A native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Johnson made his Ryder Cup debut in 2006 and played in five Ryder Cups (2006, ‘10, ‘12, ‘14, ‘16). Johnson has served as a U.S. Vice Captain in the last two Ryder Cups. 

“I am confident that Zach's appointment will be wildly popular with the players as well as throughout American golf circles," said Richerson.  "But more than that, Zach is the caliber of individual that the PGA of America wants representing the United States and our 28,000-plus PGA Professionals on the global stage. He has performed on the biggest stages as a player, a teammate and as a Vice Captain.  He checks every conceivable leadership box and we anticipate that the U.S. Team in Italy will reflect the hard work, grit and selfless determination that have long defined his stellar playing career” 

The 46-year-old Johnson posted a 8-7-2 overall match record and was part of winning Ryder Cup efforts as a player in 2016 and as a Vice Captain in 2020. Johnson’s two Major Championships, in the 2007 Masters and the 2015 Open, highlight 12 career worldwide victories. 

“To accept this Captaincy, to lead this United States Ryder Cup Team abroad ー after what we accomplished last year at Whistling Straits ー is simply the greatest honor of my professional career,” said Johnson. “I want to thank the PGA of America Ryder Cup Committee for this special opportunity. As exciting as this is for both my family and me, it is equally sobering to understand the scope of our challenge in Rome, as we have not won on the road in three decades. To win, we will have to outplay a European Team that will have both ample talent and motivation on their side. I am anxious to dig in and begin the process of putting our team in the best possible position to succeed.” 

In his first appointment as Ryder Cup Captain, Johnson named Steve Stricker the first of his Vice Captains. Stricker served as U.S. Captain for the 2020 Ryder Cup, which the U.S. won, 19-9, recording the largest margin of victory since continental Europe was included in 1979. Stricker previously served as a Vice Captain three times (2014, ‘16, ‘18).

The selection criteria for the 2023 U.S. Ryder Cup Team was also announced by Johnson in coordination with the PGA Ryder Cup Committee, which includes Richerson, PGA of America Vice President John Lindert, PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh, Stricker, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas.

All U.S. players will have the opportunity to earn points beginning in 2022 and concluding immediately after the second FedEx Cup Play-Off event (BMW Championship) on August 20, 2023:

2022 Major Championships

- 1 Point per $1,000 earned 

   The Masters, PGA Championship, U.S. Open, The Open 

2022 WGC Events and The Players Championship

- 1 Point per $2,000 earned 

   WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play Championship, The Players Championship, WGC-HSBC Champions 

2023 Regular PGA Tour events

- 1 point per $1,000 earned 

   Beginning January 1, 2023, through the end of the second FedEx Cup Play-Offs (BMW Championship), August 20, 2023; includes the Zurich Classic of New Orleans team event and WGC events

   2023 Opposite Field PGA TOUR events will NOT receive points

2023 Major Championships 

- 2 Points per $1,000 earned for the Winner

- 1.5 Points per $1,000 earned for all others to make the cut 

   The Masters, PGA Championship, U.S. Open, The Open

The points system for the American team will conclude on August 20, 2023, with the top six players on the points list securing spots on the U.S. Team.

The six remaining slots on the U.S. Team will be Captain’s Selections and will be announced by Johnson following the 2023 Tour Championship.

For more information about the Ryder Cup, visit RyderCup.com.

Pepsi Little People’s Golf Championships Partners with Agogo Active

(Quincy, IL) — Pepsi Little People’s Golf Championships is delighted to announce its relationship with Agogo Active, a new leader in the performance sock industry.  Agogo Active’s new collections are constructed to wick away moisture and reduce odor.

Agogo Active will offer all participants in the 2022 Little People’s a coupon code for 20% off their entire order of socks, as well as a $20 Gift Certificate to the winner of each of the 14 age divisions, to be used on the Agogo Active website.

The 49th annual Pepsi Little People’s Golf Championships is an international event and will be held June 20-22, at two golf courses in Quincy, IL.  It is open to boys and girls ages 3 through 18.

Contestants in Pepsi Little People’s have the opportunity to qualify for several other major junior golf tournaments, as well as gain national rankings, so important to their college resumes.

“We are delighted to form this partnership with Agogo Active,” stated Nan Ryan, Founder and Executive Director of Pepsi Little People’s.  “I have been delighted with my first pair of Agogo Active socks, and I know that our players will be eager to try them also.”

“We are beyond excited to introduce the Little People’s participants to Agogo socks,” said Megan Prince, Director of Marketing and Social Media at Agogo Active. “It’s not often that you find a pair of socks that you fall in love with,” she added.  “ Our socks will provide the players with all-day comfort, allowing them to play their best game with happy feet! We hope our socks are everything you didn’t even know you needed.”

To shop for your perfect sock, visit agogoactive.com.

More information and entry forms are available at www.littlepeoplesgolf.com, or by contacting Nan Ryan, Tournament Director, at jrgolfer@littlepeoplesgolf.com, or text or call 217-257-5718.

PGA TOUR player Sam Burns reflects on Compassion’s Fill the Stadium initiative

Pro athlete drives effort to deliver life-saving aid for more than 76,000 children worldwide struggling in the wake of COVID-1. 

(COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.) — Compassion International’s Fill the Stadium is still celebrating their impressive success—in less than two years, Fill the Stadium surpassed their goal to raise $35 million and provide lifesaving aid to 70,000 children who have been affected by the pandemic. Today, over 76,000 registered children in the Compassion program have received food, supplies, and other necessary items.

This extraordinary effort was headed by Compassion CEO and President Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado and Steve Stenstrom, president of Pro Athletes Outreach, along with many notable professional athletes. Professional PGA golfer Sam Burns is proud to support Fill the Stadium and joins the rest of the pro-athlete team in celebrating the success of the initiative.

“Since the start of the pandemic, everyone has experienced some type of adverse change in their lives,” stated Burns. “The children who receive help through Fill the Stadium experienced circumstances that were devastating, yet through this initiative, those negative circumstances are starting to reverse. This effort truly makes a difference in the lives of these children. My wife, Caroline, and I are so thankful for the opportunity to support this critical need and serve God well.”

Mellado commented, “Now that the goal for this initiative has been met, my prayer is that the resourced world won’t move on too quickly and forget about the rest of their under-resourced brothers and sisters who desperately need their assistance. They continue to need our support both financially and spiritually.”

Joining Burns in co-leadership roles for Fill the Stadium efforts are such standout professional athletes as Carson Palmer, former NFL quarterback; Chris Davis, former Baltimore Oriole first baseman, Nate Solder, New York Giants offensive tackle; Case Keenum, Cleveland Browns quarterback; Nick Foles, professional football MVP quarterback; Adam Engel of the Chicago White Sox; Alyssa Naeher, a member of the U.S. Olympic and World Cup Women’s Soccer Team; Nick Ahmed of the Arizona Diamondbacks; Jordy Nelson, former professional wide receiver; Devin and Jason McCourty, NFL defensive backs; Jaccob Slavin of the Carolina Hurricanes; Brock Huard, FOX sports broadcaster and former professional quarterback; and many others.

To learn more about Fill the Stadium, visit fillthestadium.com.

Indian Wells Golf Resort Recognized by GolfPass as Best in U.S. and California for 2022

(Indian Wells, Calif.) – Indian Wells Golf Resort in Indian Wells, Calif. was recently recognized recently by GolfPass in the website’s “Golfers’ Choice 2022: Top 50 U.S. Courses” and “Golfer’s Choice 2022: Best Golf Courses in California” annual rankings.

Indian Wells Golf Resort’s Celebrity Course ranked No. 27 in “Golfers’ Choice 2022: Top 50 U.S. Courses”. GolfPass rankings are created by user reviews. The best public golf experiences in the country are based on more than 320,000 reviews from the GolfPass golf community. Scores are based on a course’s overall rating and six subcategory ratings including value, conditions, layout, pace of play, staff friendliness and off-course amenities as voted on by GolfPass readers. GolfPass is the leading source of golf course ratings and reviews by golfers, for golfers. GolfPass’ community of golfers share their first-hand experience at thousands of courses worldwide to help other golfers decide where to play their next round.

“It is a true honor to be included in the Top 50 in the country by GolfPass reviewers, those that have played and experienced Indian Wells Golf Resort,” said Sven Wiedenhaupt, general manager, Indian Wells Golf Resort. “It is a credit to each and every one of our Indian Wells Golf Resort associates who work tirelessly every day to make the property a top destination.”         

In addition, both the Celebrity and Players courses were featured among the “Golfer’s Choice 2022: Best Golf Courses in California.” The Celebrity course ranked No.3 in the state and the Players Course was ranked No.13. To determine the best in California, GolfPass totaled more than 40,000 reviews to honor the Golden State’s best public golf courses.

For more information on Indian Wells Golf Resort, visit www.indianwellsgolfresort.com or call 760-346-4653.

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

Junior Golf Hub Launches New ‘College Match’ Feature

Instantly Pairs College Golf Hopefuls with Their Ideal School 

(RIDGEFIELD, Conn.) – Junior Golf Hub (JGH) – the leading online community for junior golfers, their parents and college coaches – announces the launch of its new “College Match” feature, which helps members of get started with the college golf programs that best fit their golf or academic abilities.

“College Match” compares a student-athletes’ data to over 2,200 college golf programs across the country to deliver a list of the ten ‘closest’ college matches. The feature considers GPA, standardized test scores, tournament results, scoring averages and more. JGH’s priority algorithm automatically updates the recommended list of programs as members make changes to their profiles.

To try the new feature at no cost and find out five of your top ten schools, click here.

“Junior Golf Hub’s unique ability to seamlessly find and connect aspiring student-athletes with college programs became much smarter with the launch of College Match,” says JGH’s founder, Roger Knick. “In response to frequently asked questions, we continuously look for ways to improve the Hub ensuring that we are the most trusted resource in the industry, keeping players and parents informed while navigating the complex journey to play college golf.”

At just $129 per year, all members have full access to the platform which helps connect recruits with college golf coaches through tailored, searchable online profiles. Player pages present to coaches their athletic measurables such as verified tournament scores, swing speed, tournament schedules and academic information such as GPA, test scores and academic honors.

A membership to JGH, which also tracks a player’s growth and development as they move through their junior golf journey, is not only a beneficial tool for burgeoning young golfers, but it also hosts an invaluable suite of resources and education that supports parents throughout the complicated process of recruiting. 

Outside of the A.I.-powered College Match, JGH has a “Find a College” function with filters that narrow down results based on the program’s scoring average, acceptable test scores, tuition, majors offered, size of enrollment and more. College golf hopefuls are instantly notified via JGH mobile app or desktop portal when a collegiate program starts following them.

To date, nearly 10,000 athletes have created a profile on JGH, while more than 1,000 members have gone on to play golf at an NCAA DI, DII, DIII or NAIA school. The current collegiate database consists of 2,300 men’s and women’s golf programs.

To sign up via mobile, download the Junior Golf Hub App in the App Store or Google Play Store.

To access the platform and learn more, visit www.juniorgolfhub.com.

For questions about the Junior Golf Hub, contact Rick Dowling at rick@juniorgolfhub.com or call 203.530.9342.

2Thumb Grip Selects The Media Group to Handle Public Relations Efforts

(NOVI, MI) — 2Thumb, “The Grip That Wins” selected The Media Group, a golf specific communications firm based out of Chicago, to handle its Public Relations efforts.

2Thumb Grip strives to make putting easier for golfers of all levels. They produce a range of ergonomically designed putter grips that aid grip alignment, help prevent grip twist and ensure an easily repeatable stroke.

2Thumb Grip North America launched officially at the 2022 PGA Merchandise Show this past January where they unveiled two brand new grips, the OCTOGRIP and the PISTOL 7E, designed by Darin Dingman, former owner of Super Stroke, who is now heading up operations.

“The Media Group has a long and successful track record of launching brands in the golf industry,” said Darin Dingman of 2Thumb Grip. “The contacts they’ve acquired and the relationships they’ve established with the golf media are second to none. We’re excited to be working with them and look forward to taking this company to the next level with their help.”

For more information on 2Thumb Grip North America visit https://usa.twothumbgrip.com/.

The Path to The Country Club Begins

Entry applications are available for 122nd U.S. Open Championship from Feb. 23 to April 13

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced that online entry applications are available now for the 122nd U.S. Open Championship, to be contested from June 16-19 at The Country Club (Championship Course), in Brookline, Mass.

Thousands of golfers will once again attempt to qualify for the championship through a two-stage process in which eventually 156 players will advance to The Country Club and one will be crowned U.S. Open champion. Non-exempt players will compete in one of 109 local qualifiers hosted throughout the United States (with one in Canada) between April 25 and May 23. Nearly 1,000 players will then compete in final qualifying, scheduled at 11 sites worldwide on May 23 and June 6.

Final qualifying will not take place in England for the second consecutive year due to continued international travel requirements, but as was done in 2021, an exemption category will allow players to earn entry based on a four-event U.S. Open 2022 European Qualifying Series. The top 10 aggregate point earners from those DP World Tour events (Betfred British Masters, Soudal Open, Dutch Open and Porsche European Open, which take place between May 5-June 5), who are otherwise not exempt, will earn spots in the U.S. Open field. 

Exemptions will also be awarded to the 2020-21 top finisher on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, the 2021-22 top finisher on the ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit and the 2021-22 top finisher on the Sunshine Tour Order of Merit, who are not otherwise exempt as of May 23.

Entry applications along with a list of qualifying sites can be accessed at champ-admin.usga.org, and entries will be accepted through Wednesday, April 13, at 5 p.m. EDT. To be eligible for 2022 U.S. Open qualifying, a player must have a Handicap Index not exceeding 1.4, or be a professional.

Allied Golf Associations (AGAs) in the United States, the Japan Golf Association and Golf Canada are working together to provide thousands of entrants from across the globe and from all backgrounds with the opportunity to compete for a spot in this major championship. This collaboration with AGAs allows for an open qualifying process in all four USGA Open championships. Since 2010, the U.S. Open has averaged 79 players in the final field who have advanced through one or both stages of qualifying.

Entry applications for the other three USGA Open championships are also available. The 77th U.S. Women’s Open Championship will be played June 2-5 at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club, in Southern Pines, N.C. The 42nd U.S. Senior Open Championship will be contested June 23-26 at Saucon Valley Country Club (Old Course), in Bethlehem, Pa., and the 4th U.S. Senior Women’s Open Championship will be held Aug. 25-28, at NCR Country Club (South Course), in Kettering, Ohio.

The Country Club will host the U.S. Open for the fourth time. The champion was determined in a playoff in all three previous Opens at the club, with amateur Francis Ouimet (1913), Julius Boros (1963) and Curtis Strange (1988) winning the title.

To learn more, visit usga.org.

Los Angeles Set to Host Consecutive LPGA Tour Events for First Time in April

Tickets on Sale Now for Both the JTBC LA Open on April 18-24 and the Newly Minted JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes on April 25-May 1

(LOS ANGELES) – The LPGA Tour and Outlyr jointly announced today that Los Angeles will host back-to-back LPGA Tour events for the first time, taking place in April 2022. The JTBC LA Open returns for a fourth year at Wilshire Country Club on April 18-24, followed by the inaugural JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes, taking place as Palos Verdes Golf Club, April 25-May 1. Both events will feature fields of 144 of the world’s best female golfers competing over 72-holes for overall purses of $1.5 million each.

Tickets are on sale now for both the JTBC LA Open and the JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes. Tournament Officials also announced the “LA LPGA Dual Ticket” – a weekly grounds pass that provides access to both tournaments, marking the first time that spectators will have the opportunity to purchase one pass for back-to-back LPGA events. Tickets will be sold exclusively via the tournament’s official websites; the JTBC LA Open at www.la-open.com and the JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes at www.jtbcchamp.com.

In addition, all service personnel, including military (active, retired, reserve and veteran), fire, police, and EMS and their immediate family (up to four tickets) will receive complimentary admission to both tournaments. The JTBC LA Open will once again include the Hero Outpost on the 18th green, compliments of SERVPRO. The complimentary SERVPRO Hero Outpost tickets must be downloaded in advance from www.la-open.com and proper ID is required at the main entrance. Children under 17 also will be admitted free into the tournament with a paid adult.

“We are very excited to expand our footprint in Los Angeles with back-to-back events in the area for the first time, adding to the Tour’s already prominent presence in Southern California,” said LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan. “We want to thank our friends and longtime partners at JTBC for providing us the opportunity to bring the stars of the women’s game to the heart of Los Angeles, one of the largest broadcast markets in the world.” 

“Los Angeles has a rich history in professional golf, and we look forward to strengthening the LPGA Tour’s presence in embarking on a new spring tradition in women’s golf with these consecutive events in Los Angeles,” said Patrick Healy, executive director for the JTBC LA Open and JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes. “We look forward to working with JTBC in showcasing Wilshire Country Club and Palos Verdes Golf Club to the LPGA Tour’s global audience.”

Historic Wilshire Country Club returns as the host venue for the JTBC LA Open for a fourth  year and will welcome fans back to the championship for the first time since 2019. The tournament made its debut in 2018, marking the LPGA Tour’s return to Los Angeles in more than a decade. Brooke Henderson captured her 10th LPGA Tour win at 16-under par at the 2021 edition of the championship, contested without fans in attendance. The 2020 edition was canceled due to the pandemic. Wilshire Country Club, which opened in 1919, is one of a select few venues to host events on the LPGA, PGA TOUR and PGA TOUR Champions, as well as the PGA Championship.

“Wilshire Country Club has been a strong proponent of women’s golf and our members are excited about the return of the game’s best players – and the return of fans – to the JTBC LA Open,” said Mark Beccaria, President of Wilshire Country Club.

Palos Verdes Golf Club, often referred to as a “hidden gem” in Southern California, has a rich history hosting women’s golf events. Palos Verdes has hosted the Northrup Grumman Regional Challenge women’s collegiate championship for the past 25 years. Past individual winners include Carlota Ciganda, Natalie Gulbis, Brittany Lang, Bronte Law, Andrea Lee, Leona Maguire, Lorena Ochoa and Annie Park. The JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes will mark the first professional tournament taking place at Palos Verdes Golf Club.

“We are privileged to welcome the LPGA Tour for this year’s JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes,” said David Klein, President of Palos Verdes Golf Club.  “Our membership is excited to welcome back many familiar faces who competed at Palos Verdes during their collegiate careers, and we look forward to working with the LPGA Tour, JTBC and Outlyr in conducting a first-class event.”

Volunteer registration for both the JTBC LA Open and JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes is now open. Registration for both tournaments is $55, which includes a polo, hat or visor, food, and beverage, and two daily tickets. For those who register to volunteer at the JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes, $5 will be donated to the Race to End Alzheimer’s Association. For more information on how to volunteer, visit JTBC LA Open at www.la-open.com; and the JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes at www.jtbcchamp.com.

The JTBC LA Open and the JTBC Championship at Palos Verdes are owned and operated by Outlyr, a global event management, sponsorship consulting and activation agency.

Original Penguin by Munsingwear Announces Re-Signing of Cameron Smith

(Miami, FL) — Original Penguin Golf, a division of Perry Ellis International, is pleased to announce the re-signing of PGA TOUR winner Cameron Smith as a brand ambassador. 

“Cameron Smith is a proven winner on the PGA TOUR and we are thrilled to continue our relationship and have him as an Original Penguin brand ambassador for years to come,” said Oscar Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International. “Cameron’s four victories on tour, including a victory in each of the last three years, 2 Australian PGA Championships, member of the 2019 International President’s Cup team and participant in the 2020 Olympics solidifies his position as a true international star.  With his record setting win at the 2022 Sentry Tournament of Champions, and a rise to 11th in the Official Golf World Rankings, 2022 is already shaping up to be a very exciting year for Cameron.”  

Building on its appeal to youth culture, Original Penguin leverages the brand’s mantra to “Be An Original.”  Original Penguin pays homage to its rich brand heritage, having been  adored by countless icons for more than 60 years. A strong influence of humor, fun and  attention to detail can be seen in its products. The brand reworks its archive of mid-century classics with seasonal updates to reflect a modern lifestyle.

"I'm excited to continue my partnership with Original Penguin as they have been a huge  supporter of mine over the years," said Smith. "I love the new looks they come up with every season, as they perfectly match my personality on and off the course.  As an athlete, Original Penguin offers breathability, comfort, style and protection from the elements - helping me to play my best golf.”   

Original Penguin’s design inspiration represents a fusion of retro heritage style with a  modern “original” twist. Fabrics include luxe sustainable recycled yarns with elastane  blends such as Repreve and 4 way stretch, extremely lightweight blends and moisture wicking UPF sun protection. Invoking the feeling of spring, the designs come with a new modern tailored fit, both sophisticated and trim yet roomy enough to swing uninhibited.  The Original Penguin Spring/Summer 2022 Golf collection fully encompasses the lifestyle of what it means to be an original. 

Original Penguin offers a full range of men’s and children’s clothing, accessories and fragrances with retail stores worldwide as well as a dedicated e-commerce website: www.originalpenguin.com.

NextLinks Partners with SknVue

NextLinks to provide support for SknVue’s Skn in the Game campaign

(SAN DIEGO, CA) – NextLinks, a new revolution in indoor golf, and SknVue, a nonprofit organization promoting global awareness and early detection of skin cancer, today announced a partnership in support of SknVue’s Skn in the Game campaign. 

Through this partnership, NextLinks will become an annual sponsor of the SknVue “Skn in the Game Golf” Tournament and SknVue will provide NextLinks with educational materials and cutting-edge tools to educate visitors to its facilities and help halt the epidemic of skin cancer in the golf community. 

“Skin cancer is the fastest growing cancer in the world,” said NextLinks CEO and Chairman, Dave Shultz. “Currently, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. These statistics are staggering, and we want to help stop this trend. We are thrilled to join the Skn in the Game campaign to raise money and awareness for SknVue and help educate golfers about the hidden and silent dangers of skin cancer.”

The Skn in the Game campaign is designed to help reduce the growth and incidences of skin cancer with forward-thinking education, early detection programs, health screenings, and breakthrough technologies to slow the alarming rise of skin cancer. According to experts, golfers face a significant health risk from habitual sun risk that can lead to skin cancer. When detected early, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. Education and early detection are of paramount importance.

“We are grateful to partner with NextLinks to further our Skn in the Game campaign initiatives,” said Randy Wyant, SknVue Co-Founder and CEO. “Having them as a premium sponsor of our charity golf tournament along with their commitment to education will help us in our efforts to fight skin cancer globally.” 

One of the latest SknVue initiatives has been the introduction of a groundbreaking new mobile app for the general population to aid in the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. The SknVue Tracker App powered by MetaOptima integrates MetaOptima’s DermEngine intelligent dermatology software for the imaging and documentation of skin conditions, and empowers consumers to track skin wellness, promote prevention and early detection of skin cancers, and expedite a doctor’s appointment if needed.

“Everyone who visits the NextLinks facilities will have access to information, resources and tools such as the SknVue Tracker App that can help them manage their skin and detect problem areas that need further consultation,” added Shultz. “Early detection saves lives and will help us get ahead of this fast-growing disease.”

To contribute to SknVue and their efforts to combat skin cancer, visit their website at www.sknvue.org. All donations are appreciated and are tax deductible.

Island Set to Host PGA TOUR, Top Golf Professionals Feb. 28-March 6, 2022

Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve

Puerto Rico Open Tees Off Unprecedented Year for the Ascending Caribbean Golf Destination

(SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO) – When the PGA TOUR arrives for the 14th playing of the Puerto Rico Open next week, not only will many of the best players in the world be competing on the Championship Course at Grand Reserve Golf Club, but they’ll be kicking off the first of several elite championships that are combining to make Island golf history.

Following the Puerto Rico Open, the U.S. Women's Amateur Four-Ball Championship will be played at Grand Reserve, April 20-24, 2022. This marks the first time a United States Golf Association championship is being held outside of the U.S. mainland in a U.S. territory.

Making it three extraordinary golf events in less than 12 months will be the 2023 Latin America Amateur Championship (LAAC), to be held Jan. 12-15 at Grand Reserve. Like the USGA Women’s Four-Ball, this will be the first time the LAAC will be held in Puerto Rico. The tournament champion will receive an invitation to compete in the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club and the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool in England.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Puerto Rico Open is poised to crown yet another exceptional champion amid the Island’s tropical splendor. Some of the PGA TOUR’s biggest names and rising stars have won or finished runner-up here. These include Bryson DeChambeau, Viktor Hovland, Jordan Spieth, Daniel Berger, Jason Day, Tony Finau and Retief Goosen, all either winners of Major Championships or currently ranked in the top 20 of the Official World Golf Ranking.

The tournament will be contested on the Championship Course (Tom Kite design) at Grand Reserve, an amenity of the Hyatt Regency in Rio Grande. Among other events, two Pro-Am competitions – in which amateur golfers play with the PGA TOUR professionals – will take place prior to the tournament, which will be played March 3-6. The Puerto Rico Open prize purse increased to $3.7 million this year.

The Island’s own Rafa Campos nearly set off a country-wide celebration in last year’s Puerto Rico Open. Leading after three rounds, he narrowly fell to eventual champion Branden Grace of South Africa. Perhaps this will be Campos’ year. He’d be a hugely popular and fitting champion.

“The PGA TOUR is home to the world’s greatest players, and Puerto Rico is a wonderful setting for them to showcase their talents while basking in our Island’s welcoming culture and sun-kissed weather,” said Brad Dean, CEO, Discover Puerto Rico. “Our Destination Marketing Organization’s mission is to highlight Puerto Rico’s global brand, and the PGA TOUR, USGA, Latin America Amateur Championship and Golf Channel coverage will help golfers throughout the world learn about our courses and golf resorts, miles of beaches, and many other attributes.”

Campos and will strive to add to Puerto Rico’s rich golf history. Island native and legendary champion Chi Chi Rodriguez won eight times on the PGA TOUR.  He designed El Legado, a popular 18-hole course in Guayama, within minutes of the ocean on the south coast.  It is one of Puerto Rico’s 18 golf courses, including four of the top 50 rated courses in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and the Atlantic Islands (source: “Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play”).

Other course designers represented on the Island include Tom and George Fazio, Greg Norman, Gary Player, Rees Jones, Tom Kite, Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and his son Robert Trent Jones, Jr.  Many of the courses are amenities of beautiful resorts, including Royal Isabela; Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino; The St. Regis Bahia Beach; Wyndham Grand Rio Mar; Palmas del Mar; Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve; and the forementioned Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve.

Golf courses are located throughout the Island with many in the Northeast near San Juan. Puerto Rico is an enchanting destination where history, gastronomy, nightlife, and natural wonders abound. It requires no passport for American citizens, is bilingual, uses the U.S. dollar for currency, and is the air hub of the Caribbean. There are more than 4,000 restaurants, and lodging options range from top hospitality brands to being named a top 10 Airbnb world destination.

Players, fans and Golf Channel viewers will get to see why Puerto Rico has received numerous accolades as a top golf and travel destination, including being highlighted in LuxeGetaways, Golf, Golfweek, Golf Digest, NY Times, Coastal Living, Forbes, Vogue, and many more.

The Puerto Rico Open is airing on Golf Channel Thursday through Sunday of tournament week. Specific times to be announced closer to the tournament.

Learn more about visiting Puerto Rico at DiscoverPuertoRico.com, including:

Travel Advisory and Q&A

The Island’s golf venues include:

TPC Dorado Beach (36 holes) – 787-626-1020

Costa Caribe (27) – 787-812-2650

Fort Buchanan (9) – 787-707-3980

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar (36) – 787-888-6000

Rio Bayamon (18) – 787-740-1419

Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve (36) – 787-657-2000

The St. Regis Bahia Beach (18) – 787-809-8000

Caguas Real (18) – 787-653-1573

Royal Isabela (18) – 787-609-5888

Deportivo del Oeste (18) – 787-851-8880

Palmas Athletic Club (36) – 787-656-3000

Punta Borinquen (18) – 787-890-2987

El Legado (18) – 787-866-8894

El Conquistador (18) – 787-863-1000

New Home Announced for the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters

(ORLANDO, Fla.) — Golfzon Leadbetter and Reunion Resort and Golf Club are proud to announce a partnership that will establish Reunion Resort as the new home of the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters.

Situated on more than 2,300 pristine acres, Reunion Resort has been consistently recognized for providing a premier golf experience in Central Florida since 2005. It is the only resort in the world to feature three championship, signature golf courses designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson. And now, Reunion Resort is adding another golf name to its long heritage of legends, David Leadbetter.

David Leadbetter and the Leadbetter Golf Academy has been synonymous with world-class instruction for nearly 40 years, developing 26 Major winners and 7 World number 1 players, many of whom trained and perfected their skills at its Academy Headquarters in Central Florida. Since 2018, under the Golfzon Group, Golfzon Leadbetter has further expanded its operation to 36 academy locations in 15 countries and as well as developing new technology to make golf easier to learn.

“I have taught golf all over the world and there are few places as well suited for golfers to learn and play as the Reunion Resort and Golf Club. We share Kingwood International Resorts’ vision for offering the very best golf experience at Reunion. Reunion already has 3 great golf courses, now they’ll have a golf academy to match. I can’t wait to give the first lesson from the new facility.” says David Leadbetter.

Golfzon Leadbetter’s World Headquarters at Reunion will feature the latest golf technology for instruction and practice including lesson studios with launch monitors, 3D swing analysis, radar ball tracking on the range, club fitting, golf fitness and biomechanics. The facility will also feature a state-of- the-art Golfzon TwoVision simulator studio to host virtual golf tournaments. Leadbetter’s award winning team of instructors will offer instruction to all levels of player including US and international Tour players, elite juniors as well as a range of programs to help amateurs and beginners.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club gives us the perfect location to expand the Golfzon Leadbetter business as well as offering golfers a unique facility to work on every aspect of their game, whatever their level of play.” Says Benedict Riches, CEO, Golfzon Leadbetter.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club has always been globally respected for its excellence in championship golf. Nowhere else in the world can you play three signature golf courses designed by legends Palmer, Watson and Nicklaus. This new partnership is a natural fit, bringing yet another legend to our resort with the

Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters.” Says Anthony Carll, General Manager, Reunion Resort. “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to offer this experience this fall with such a respected legend in the golf community.”

For more information on Reunion Resort, visit www.reunionresort.com or call 833.258.0472. For more information on the Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters, visit www.leadbetter.com or call 407.787.3330.

Visit Carlsbad: The Golfing Gateway to Southern California

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Top travel destination promotes courses and resorts as a leading golf destination

(Carlsbad, CA) – Visit Carlsbad, the destination marketing organization for the Pacific Coast town of Carlsbad, California, invites golfers from across the country to experience the area’s top golf resorts, golf courses, and leading hotel properties as the organization further promotes the sunny region as one of America’s top golf destinations.

Carlsbad is home to top golf resort destinations Omni La Costa Resort & Spa and Park Hyatt Aviara, along with The Crossings at Carlsbad. The oceanfront town showcases world-class golf, luxury resort destinations, world class culture and cuisine, and some of the finest year-round weather anywhere. Golf Digest already recognizes Carlsbad among its “23 best summertime buddies trip golf destinations.” 

“When you combine the world-class golf at La Costa, Aviara, and The Crossings, together with our resort destinations and over 5,000 hotel rooms, wonderful attractions, restaurants, breweries, beaches, outdoor activities, and great weather, why wouldn’t you want to put this on your bucket list of golf destinations?” said Mark Rudyk, Vice President Marketing & Communications of Visit Carlsbad. “We are very excited to promote our great golf partners and create more awareness about our golf product and attract even more golfers to this beautiful oceanside golf destination.”

Carlsbad features a rich golf history

Originally developed as an amenity-driven playground for well-heeled celebrities and athletes, OMNI La Costa Resort & Spa has a warm, relaxing vibe that charms you from the moment you step onto the property. You can feel the rich history, which dates to the early 1960s, echoing through its grounds.

By the mid-1960s, La Costa had become the go-to spot for Hollywood’s elite. The golf course received international praise and was routinely played by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Bob Hope. In the early 1970s, renowned Pancho Segura was the resident tennis pro and La Costa became the tennis epicenter with Charlton Heston, Johnny Carson and Desi Arnaz exchanging rallies during their visits.

The crown jewel of La Costa, The Spa, was a refuge for some of the world’s most powerful people, including Richard Nixon, Jackie Kennedy and Chief Justice Earl Warren. La Costa had quickly established itself as the top destination for Hollywood stars who wanted to experience “The La Costa Lifestyle.” Omni La Costa is home to 36 holes of historic championship golf on its Champions and Legends Courses, having hosted the PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Champions from 1969 – 1989.

Park Hyatt Aviara

Aviara plays host to the LPGA

The Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club and Spa is a premier luxury resort featuring the region’s only Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. Since 2013, the resort and golf club has played host to the LPGA JTBC Classic. The resort spreads across 200 acres and features a stunning sophisticated Spanish colonial-style hotel. The luxe getaway recently underwent a major $50 million transformation that included new dining concepts, reimagined rooms, pool areas, and fresh stunning ocean views from the new lobby. Golf Digest has named the resort among its “33 most female-friendly golf trip destinations.”

Opened in 1991, the highly acclaimed Palmer design overlooks the beautiful Batiquitos Lagoon, a three-mile stretch of inland water ranked among the finest private wilderness preserves in the country. With its scenic setting, the course layout boasts undulating greens and wide fairways that meander through the coastal hills with dramatic vegetation scenic rock outcroppings, and cascading waterfalls and streams.

The Crossings at Carlsbad, located just one mile from the Pacific Ocean, was designed by Greg Nash. The popular municipal course is regarded as one of the best in Southern California. With the Pacific to the west and the southern California Peninsular Mountain Ranges to the east, the course’s scenery is truly jaw-dropping. Named for the five bridges golfers cross over canyons during the round, the course will take you across rugged terrain and through canyons and wetlands accentuated with sagebrush and native flora. The course also sits adjacent to the luxury Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, a convenient spot for golfers to stay and play.

Complementing Carlsbad’s championship golf experiences is the fun local establishment Rancho Carlsbad Golf Club. Located two miles inland, the 2,056-yard, par-54 18-hole short course is an ideal place to hone your short game or settle the day’s buddy trip bets in a relaxing atmosphere.

Along with the Park Hyatt Aviara and La Costa golf resorts, Carlsbad features other sensational resort destinations like Cape Ray, Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa, nestled on the coast and just steps from the Pacific Ocean. Hilton also operates the beautiful Cassara Carlsbad that also overlooks the ocean. The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Aviara Residence Club, and Sheraton Carlsbad are also perfect spots for golfers to base themselves when playing the areas world-class golf. If resorts are not your vibe, make sure to check the variety of hotels in the area for stay and play packages.

Golf Equipment Capital

Carlsbad is also known as the golf equipment capital of the world, playing home to most of the top club manufacturers like Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, Cobra and Honma, among other golf brands. Golf aficionados and club geeks who visit the area can also experience the best in custom club fitting through some of the game’s top performance centers like the Titleist Performance Institute, Ely Callaway Performance Center, TaylorMade Kingdom and Scotty Cameron Putting Studio.

For more information about Carlsbad’s top golf experiences or to book a golf buddy trip, visit https://visitcarlsbad.com/best-golf-courses/.

Tetherow Academy Announces New Golf Partnership, Director of Instruction Leading into the 2022 Season

(BEND, ORE.) – Surrounded by natural beauty and an abundance of outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise that Tetherow Resort is on Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses. Just in time for spring, the award-winning David McLay-Kidd gem announces its new Director of Golf Instruction, Mary Jacobs. This new partnership will bring Jacobs and her successful  One, Two, Follow Through Golf Academy to Tetherow.

Mary Jacobs

The enhanced programming at the Tetherow Academy has a renewed focus on youth golf development. Jacobs’ One, Two, Follow Through approach provides a simple framework that allows young golfers to grow and evolve naturally while focusing more on the simplicity of the game. The programs are also available for adults year-round. Upgraded technology at the Academy includes a new simulator space with projector, cage and screen.

Jacobs brings an impressive résumé of wide-ranging golf experience to the Tetherow Academy, including golf competition, sports development, and coaching. Jacobs first competed on the LPGA at the age of 16, played as an All-American Golfer at The University of Arizona, won a bronze medal in the World University Olympic Games in Bangkok, and has been a Class-A LPGA instructor for 13 years. She has coached at the prestigious Wilshire Country Club in Los Angeles. She has guided a number of her players to the collegiate level, including Division 1 and the professional tour level. In 2021, Jacobs became a published author of the best-selling children's book 'One, Two, Follow Through Starring Polly Pivot' in five countries and counting. 

"It's important to enhance a golfer's skill along with their love of the game, all while introducing new players to the sport," says Katie Burnett, Tetherow's Director of Golf. “The expanded programming and new One, Two, Follow Through programming will do just that. Golf is a rare sport that you can play your entire life. Jacobs’ fun and simple approach to the game can set a young player up for a lifetime of success on the course."

With endless Cascade views and located on the eastern edge of the driving range, the versatile Tetherow Academy offers two indoor bays for golf instruction. Large garage doors allow for indoor and outdoor hitting and one exterior bay for purely outdoor golf instruction. This building serves as a hub for golf instruction programming for Tetherow. It is available for private or group instruction, and updated offerings can be viewed on the website.

While the Tetherow Academy is open year-round, Tetherow's 18-hole, award-winning golf course opens for the 2022 season on March 28. 

For more information visit www.tetherow.com or call 541-388-2582.

Mauna Lani Golf Earns Multiple Awards

(Kohala Coast, Hawai‘i) – 2022 is off to an amazing start for Mauna Lani Golf as the picturesque golf resort located on the Kohala Coast has received accolades from GolfPass, Golfweek and the Association of Golf Merchandisers.

GolfPass recognized Mauna Lani Golf’s North and South courses in the website’s “Golfers’ Choice 2022: Top Golf Courses in Hawaii” annual ranking – the North Course is ranked No. 5 and the South Course is ranked No. 6 in the Aloha State.  In addition, the South course was ranked No. 6 in the “Golfers’ Choice 2022: Top 25 Courses for Pace of Play.” Rankings are based on GolfPass user reviews and scores are based on a course’s overall rating and six subcategory ratings including value, conditions, layout, pace of play, staff friendliness and off-course amenities as voted on by GolfPass readers. Courses need a minimum of 10 reviews over the calendar year to be considered for their Best-of rankings. GolfPass is the leading source of golf course ratings and reviews by golfers, for golfers. GolfPass’ community of golfers share their first-hand experience at thousands of courses worldwide to help other golfers decide where to play their next round. 

The North and South courses were also featured in Golfweek’s newest ranking of the “Top 200 Best Resort Courses in the U.S.” found in the recently published “Ultimate Guide of Best Courses” for 2022.  Golfweek raters had the North course ranked T122 and the South course T194, in the listing of best resort courses. Every year, Golfweek’s team of course 850 raters surveys more than 3,600 courses – grading each nominated course on the basis of Golfweek’s 10 strict standards of evaluation. Collectively, these knowledgeable raters have turned in more than 75,000 votes to compile Golfweek’s Best Courses lists.

In late January, Mauna Lani Golf also received a 2022 Platinum Award presented by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM). The AGM Platinum Awards honor the “best of the best” public, private, resort and off-course specialty shops. Recipients of this prestigious award consistently demonstrate efficacious business practices in their retail operations. The program, a combination of the former 100 Best Golf Shops (Golf World Business) and the AGM Front Nine Awards, attracts entries from facilities worldwide.

“It is an honor to be recognized by each of these organizations,” said Dave Ulm, general manager, Mauna Lani Golf & Tennis. “It is a true credit to the hard work and dedication of our retail, agronomic, service and golf ops teams to curate the best experiences for our guests.” 

Mauna Lani’s North Course, a Flint, Cain and Nelson design, was built on an ancient lava bed.  Overlaying the rugged brown pahoehoe lava flow, the North Course features rolling fairways and through kiawe forests.  A 230-acre protected archeological district lies on the northern edge of the North Course, while feral goats roam the course, cropping the grass and providing a unique neutral hazard.  The par-3 17th is the signature hole on the North Course as a series of elevated tees form a natural amphitheater with the green at the base of a lava bowl. 

The South Course, a Homer Flint, Raymond Cain and Robin Nelson design, was built on the 16th century Kaniku lava flow snaking through stark, rugged a‘a lava.  A pair of par 3s – the 7th and 15th holes – are Mauna Lani South’s signature holes and are two of the most photographed golf holes in the world. The South Course was home to the Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000.

For more information on Mauna Lani Golf, visit www.maunalanigolf.com or call 808-885-6655.

For more information on Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, visit www.aubergeresorts.com/maunalani.

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

Pebble Beach Resorts, USGA Unveil Logo for the 78th U.S. Women’s Open

Design details convey the history of the moment, as the legendary resort prepares to host the premier championship in women’s golf for the first time in 2023

(PEBBLE BEACH, CALIF.) – 500 days before the best women golfers in the world arrive at Pebble Beach Resorts to vie for the most coveted title in women’s golf, Pebble Beach and the USGA have unveiled a logo to commemorate the history of the occasion. The 78th U.S. Women’s Open presented by ProMedica, coming to Pebble Beach, July 5-9, 2023, will be the first ever hosted at America’s #1 public golf course.

The new logo features three iconic images:

· Lone Cypress: a symbol of resilience that has stood on its rocky perch above the Pacific Ocean for hundreds of years. The tree has become synonymous with a golf course that has hosted 13 USGA championships.

· Sunrise: conveying the dawn of a new era as the best in women’s golf are set to compete on the championship course that has shaped so many legacies.

· Undulating red waves: evocative of the stripes of the American flag, represent the impact the event will make in women’s golf for generations to come.  

The 2023 U.S. Women’s Open adds to the rich heritage of women’s championship golf at Pebble Beach, which has hosted two U.S. Women’s Amateurs as well as the annual TaylorMade Pebble Beach Invitational, the premier pro-am where female professionals compete for the same purse alongside the men.

For more information, call 800-654-9300 or visit pebblebeach.com.

Blue Tees Golf Receives ING Industry Honors Award for Product Ingenuity

Blue Tees Golf recognizes that the Series 3 Max Rangefinder with its contemporary styling and engineering features contributed greatly to the company receiving this prestigious award

(SAN FRANCISCO, CA) – Blue Tees Golf, a rapidly growing producer of golf rangefinders and accessories, proudly announced today that it received the ING Industry Honors Award for Product Ingenuity - Technology at the 69th PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, FL. The company attributes much of the recognition by golf industry experts to its flagship rangefinder, the Series 3 Max. 

“We are honored to win this respectable award. It means the world to our entire team,” said Chris Markham, CEO and Co-Founder of Blue Tees Golf. “As soon as we received the ING Industry Honors Award, we captured a picture of it and shared it company-wide. I wanted everyone at Blue Tees Golf to know they ALL contributed to this moment of recognition.” 

The International Network of Golf (ING) Industry Honors program recognizes outstanding achievements in the golf industry. The non-profit, media-based networking organization accepts nominations throughout the year. Experts in each category narrow down the entries to the top three in each category. ING members then vote to determine the winners. 

This year’s Industry Honors Award presentation was held on January 27 at the PGA Merchandise Show. The Blue Tees Golf team was thrilled to be on the final ballot with power houses like NBC Sports Next Round-Up and SwingU. Co-founders Markham, Drew Koehler, and Brandon Francisco accepted the award together. 

“This was a special moment for us. We three have been friends since childhood and to share this milestone together is priceless,” added Markham. 

For more information, visit www.blueteesgolf.com.

Panther National Breaks Ground

A vision of Swiss developer Dominik Senn, the modern lifestyle/golf/wellness community will feature a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course in partnership with PGA TOUR star Justin Thomas, sustainable initiatives including homes and amenities powered by Tesla, and more

(Palm Beach Gardens, FL) – Swiss developer Dominik Senn announced the groundbreaking of Panther National, slated to open in late 2023 in the heart of upscale enclave Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Designed in partnership with world-renowned architect Max Strang, legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, PGA TOUR player Justin Thomas, and in collaboration with Tesla Energy, the luxury golf and lifestyle community marks the first of its kind in Florida and the first golf development in Palm Beach County in almost two decades.  

Panther National combines 218 custom, modern estates with a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in collaboration with Justin Thomas and premium community amenities for an unparalleled modern luxury living experience unlike anything else in the country. The development—envisioned by Senn, a retired Swiss alpine ski racer and president and founder of international sports management agency 4sports & Entertainment—is now accepting reservations for the first collection, including 78 estate homes and sites, officially released for contract this summer. 

“More than five years in the making, my vision for Panther National was initially inspired by what I believe is a void in the market,” says Senn. “I feel strongly that there is a desire for a new modern, lifestyle-driven golf community that redefines luxury living. I’m thrilled to collaborate with world-class partners such as Max Strang, Jack Nicklaus, Justin Thomas and Tesla Energy to bring that vision to fruition here in Palm Beach Gardens.” 

MODERN DESIGN WITH EUROPEAN SENSIBILITIES 

After evaluating five different land plots throughout South Florida for the development, Senn and team finalized an agreement for the last desirable, buildable plot in the Palm Beach Gardens, a total of approximately 400 acres surrounded by a 2,400-acre conservation area. Comprised of 139 third-acre sites, 58 half-acre sites, and 21 one-acre sites, Panther National’s residences will pair sleek, modern elegance with visionary, environmentally sensitive engineering for a sustainable and effortless luxury living experience. Prospective homeowners can choose from multiple floor plans ranging from 4,700 to more than 10,000 square feet with ultra-luxury residences featuring three to six bedrooms across one or two stories. All residences will feature a two or three car garage with electric car charging units, space for a golf cart, an outdoor kitchen, and private pool. 

Reflective of Strang’s focus on environmental stewardship and modernist design approach, the estates at Panther National will utilize ecologically sensitive construction products, LEED certified materials, and green building practices. In addition, Panther National will collaborate with Tesla Energy, a leading innovator in the industry, to provide power wall back up systems within the estates and amenities throughout the development enhancing the community’s commitment to clean energy. 

“Panther National is creating modern residences that blend elegant architecture and energy sustainability,” says Strang. “I am pleased to collaborate with the Panther National development team and Tesla as they share the goal of building cleaner, more resilient communities.”

NICKLAUS AND THOMAS DESIGNED GOLF EXPERIENCE

In partnership with iconic golf champion Jack Nicklaus and current PGA TOUR star Justin Thomas, Panther National will feature a Jack Nicklaus Signature 18-hole course with elevations and features unlike any other course in the state. Combining the best of Nicklaus’s traditional design approach with the modern perspective of Thomas, one of the most talented young players in the world today, Panther National’s championship course will offer an unparalleled new golf experience. The collaboration between the two golfers represents the first time Nicklaus and Thomas have teamed up to work together on a golf course project. The course will be complemented by world class training facilities, featuring state-of-the-art ball tracing technology, elite pros to provide tailored instruction, an indoor simulator, putting room, and high-end fitness training equipment. In addition, members can take advantage of Panther National’s fitting facility with custom fitting, stocked premium clubs and shafts from all major equipment manufacturers. Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy playing on the community’s 9-hole, par-3 practice course with a short game area and hitting bays. 

“Developing the first private golf club community in Florida with a contemporary architectural style has been a vision of mine for some time,” says Senn. “Partnering with Jack and the Nicklaus Design team, as well as Justin Thomas, was an easy decision. Nobody does a better job in creating a golf experience that can challenge the top touring professionals in the world, while offering an enjoyable experience for members and guests of all ages and skill levels.”

UNMATCHED COMMUNITY AMENITIES 

Panther National emphasizes a luxurious, wellness-oriented lifestyle with a host of first-class amenities. Homeowners and their guests will enjoy an expansive, contemporary Clubhouse featuring European-style service with progressive, health-forward cuisine and a premium, curated selection of wine and spirits. A wellness lifestyle center designed with the whole family in mind will offer a range of experiences, including a stunning spa providing holistic wellness, rejuvenation, and beauty services in addition to saunas and innovative water therapy treatments; a state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga studio; tennis complex; and resort-style pool. 

“Panther National will offer a complete lifestyle – from food and architecture to golf and work-life balance with European-style service and modern, Scandinavian inspired design elements,” Senn notes. “I think the pandemic has reminded people that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and enjoying regular outdoor activity is critically important to overall wellness, and that’s exactly the mentality with which we’ve designed Panther National.”

For more information on Panther National, visit www.panthernational.com or follow @panthernational. For more information about sales, contact IMI Worldwide Properties at www.imiliving.com.

Bobby Weed Golf Design Launches All-New Website

New platform is rich in storytelling and authenticity

(PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Florida) – The game of golf is played differently today.

The business of golf is managed differently today.

Bobby Weed Golf Design (“BWGD”) is countering this growing complexity by proudly launching a new website. The award-winning golf course design firm – featuring an extensive portfolio of original designs and comprehensive renovations – has crafted a new site that is rich in storytelling and authenticity.

“In an era where branded styles are all too commonplace, BWGD offers clubs a refreshingly different approach,” said golf course designer and builder Bobby Weed. “In the same vein, our new website better showcases the custom-made approach that we offer on every project.” 

BWGD looks beyond the 18th hole to consider and influence every aspect of a golf course’s development. The new site provides an in-depth look at Bobby Weed’s acclaimed career in golf course architecture, as well as the many facets of planning, design, construction and land development. 

“We are honored to be an extension Bobby Weed Golf Design’s continuous growth,” said Nick Leonard, founder and creative director of Fable Heart Media. “This progressive site, paired with modern technology and beautiful imagery, will serve the firm well for years to come.” 

More information: bobbyweed.com.