Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Terravita Golf & Country Club Reopens Golf Course Following $8.5M Renovation


(Scottsdale, Ariz.)
– Terravita Golf & Country Club in Scottsdale, Ariz. recently reopened its newly renovated golf course to member play following an $8.5 million renovation and enhancement project. Golf course architect Phil Smith led the seven-month renovation while Heritage Links performed the construction work.

Originally designed by Billy Casper and Greg Nash, Terravita opened for play in 1994. In developing the renovation master plan, Smith focused on the outdated irrigation system, bunkers and green complexes as well as turf improvements on the 28-year-old course. Membership approved the renovation project in 2021 and course work began on April 1, 2022.  During construction all 18 greens were re-designed, rebuilt and grassed using TifEagle Bermuda grass; tee boxes were repositioned; fairways were reshaped; and a new state-of-the-art irrigation system was installed. All bunkers were also strategically repositioned, reshaped and rebuilt incorporating a technically advanced drainage and liner system featuring Capillary Concrete. This new generation lining method increases the speed at which water flows through the bunker, minimizing washouts, reducing maintenance and producing superior playability.

"It has been my honor to work alongside Troon, Terravita and Heritage Links to renovate the Terravita golf course,” said Smith. “During the renovation process I was able to design a new golf course that rewards good shots and fairly challenges all levels of play. I am proud to say Terravita Golf & Country Club now has a golf course the members can enjoy, uninterrupted, for many years to come."

Located in North Scottsdale, Terravita is set in one of the most scenic and colorful parts of the Sonoran Desert. The par 72 golf course now stretches 7,112 yards, an increase of 37 yards from the previous design. 

“Terravita Members are rediscovering their golf course like an old friend that has come back, but even better than they remember.  What Phil Smith and the Heritage Links team has accomplished is truly magnificent, and the Terravita Members are so proud of their new surroundings,” said Terravita Golf & Country Club’s General Manager Rich Riffle.

Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon, manages Terravita Golf & Country Club.  For more information on Terravita Golf & Country Club, visit www.terravita.com.

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

Thursday, November 17, 2022

Iconic Ashworth Golf Apparel Brand Makes a Comeback…Returning to US Marketplace


2023 Apparel Line will Blend Tradition and Innovation; Respected Leadership Team Led by Eddie Fadel and Global Operations Backed by Newtimes Group

(La Quinta, CA) – Newtimes Group, a global leader of retail supply chain management, today announced the iconic Ashworth Golf Apparel Brand will return to the US marketplace, with plans for a new innovative and classic line of golf polos, bottoms, outwear and accessories throughout 2023. 

Revered by passionate players since 1987, Ashworth is the original, authentic golf apparel brand.  It is this distinction and extraordinary heritage that sets the brand apart, as it is born off an innate understanding of the golfer’s movements. Ashworth is backed by a decades-long reputation for creating golf clothes that deliver a full range of motion and comfort all day.  

The re-launch of the Ashworth Brand in the US marketplace is led by Eddie Fadel, a highly respected 30-year veteran golf apparel executive, who serves as Company President, along with Kate Cunningham, SVP of Sales and Business Development - coming home after working for Ashworth in the 90’s and early 2000’s. 

The new-look Ashworth Golf Brand is epitomized by the famous Golfman embroidery logo, which signifies Ashworth quality, style, and performance. Outfitted by some of the most recognizable names in the sport, the brand has always been aspirational, while commanding the respect of those who value the pure, classic and authentic Golfman logo.

“Ask any passionate golfer 45+ what the Ashworth brand means, and most will say it was their favorite golf polo,” said Fadel.  “Golfers revered Ashworth and remember when Fred Couples wore our brand to win the Masters in ‘92. Now, we’re bringing this brand back in a big way for both our loyal customers and a new generation of players, so they too can wear the Golfman logo like a badge of honor.”

Now, thanks to Newtimes Group, the brand will have additional resources, and a competitive advantage in supply chain operations. The Company will officially unveil its 2023 line of products in January at PGA Show in Orlando, Florida. 

The Spring and Fall 2023 lines will be developed to withstand the rigors of the course and the elements, integrating a mix of tradition and innovation, while offering golfers the ultimate in fit, function, style and performance. The new line will feature a modern-day version of the original cotton polos from Ashworth, combining technical fabrics with natural fibers, while offering an authentic yet classic look that meets the demands of today’s discerning golfer at every level of the game. Blending the highest quality cotton and just the right level of performance microfiber enhances fit and all-day comfort, and the proper amount of stretch during the golf swing.

Adds Cunningham, “I’ve been on the road visiting with some of the most respected and influential Green Grass Shops across the country, and there is still such strong sentiment and nostalgia for the Ashworth brand.  It’s refreshing to see the groundswell of excitement for the iconic Golfman logo to be back on shelves.”   

Adds Fadel, “At Ashworth, it’s always been more than a game and more than a brand. It’s a lifestyle, a conversation, a culture, a tribe. The golf industry loves a comeback story, and I’m excited to say, we’re back and better than ever.” 

For more information on Ashworth Golf visit https://us.ashworthgolf.com/, or check out the brand’s social media pages located at @ashworthgolf.

BigShots Golf in Akron to Officially Open to the Public on November 19


Tech-driven “eatertainment” venue boasts 44 interactive tee boxes, Anthem Kitchen + Bar, private event and meeting space

(DALLAS) – BigShots Golf® – Invited’s tech-driven entertainment and culinary experience offering fun for all ages and skill levels, announces BigShots Golf at Firestone Country Club, its newest facility located at the legendary Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio, will officially open on November 19.

Located at 600 Swartz Road, BigShots Golf at Firestone encompasses 22,500 square feet and is situated along the Raymond C. Firestone Public 9 Golf Course. Open to the public year-round, BigShots Golf at Firestone includes a two-story tee-line with 44 climate-controlled tee boxes, a private event space and Anthem Kitchen + Bar, an elevated sports bar featuring unexpected menu items, signature cocktails and craft beer.

BigShots Golf at Firestone also marks the first free-standing outdoor location that is connected to one of the clubs in the Invited portfolio, demonstrating the company’s continued commitment to diversifying the game by making it accessible to more people.

“We are thrilled to usher in a new level of golf entertainment and dining to Akron and its surrounding communities with BigShots Golf at Firestone,” says Jay Walkinshaw, General Manager at Firestone Country Club. “This cutting-edge golf, dining and entertainment venue has it all – innovative gameplay, an elevated dining experience with Anthem Kitchen + Sports Bar, and exciting events suitable for the entire family.

“Plus, as the first golf entertainment venue connected to one of our clubs,” Walkinshaw adds, “BigShots Golf enhances the golf experience at Firestone and allows everyone in the community to enjoy this fabulous game at night, during inclement weather, whenever, all-year round.”

BigShots Golf features cutting-edge technology powered by TrackMan Range and can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. Avid golfers can play full rounds on virtual golf courses all over the world, while beginners, families and children can take part in interactive games designed to give every player the chance to win.

BigShots Golf’s location next to the Firestone Public 9 golf course and its interactive and family-friendly activities are an attractive option for new players, and follows the trend of how modern golfers consume the game. All of this exists alongside the history and legacy of the traditional Firestone Country Club, and this contrast offers an exceptional experience for golf purists and newcomers alike.

“Our focus is golf, and there’s not a more iconic name or venue in the sport than Firestone,” says BigShots Golf Chief Operating Officer TJ Schier. “We are excited to bring our cutting-edge entertainment and dining experiences that both fuels a passion for the sport and brings people together in a comfortable atmosphere. BigShots Golf at Firestone is destined to become a major sports and entertainment attraction for residents and visitors of Northeast Ohio.”

For more information on BigShots Golf at Firestone, visit our location page.

In addition to Firestone, BigShots Golf is open in Vero Beach, Fla., Fort Worth, Texas, Springfield, Mo., and Northwick Park, UK. Earlier this year, BigShots Golf opened in Bryan, Texas and St. George, Utah, and currently under development is a BigShots Golf in Naples, Fla., with a planned opening set for the end of 2023.

Myrtle Beach’s Leading Golf Providers Unveil Exclusive Black Friday Package

King's North Gambler

(MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.)
— The leaders in the Myrtle Beach golf industry - Founders Group International (FGI) and Brittain Resort Management (BRM) - have partnered to create an exclusive Black Friday package that will deliver unmatched value to traveling golfers.

The Black Friday All-Inclusive will allow players to choose among FGI’s 21 courses, including Grande Dunes, TPC Myrtle Beach and King’s North at Myrtle Beach National, while saving an additional $5 per round, per golfer. In addition to golf, players will receive range balls, lunch and two drinks tickets, good for draft beer, soft drinks and tea, each day at the course.

Group leaders will also have their choice among BRM’s 15 luxury hotel properties, including the recently renovated Breakers Resort and the Caribbean, two of Myrtle Beach’s most popular oceanfront resorts, and they can save up to 50 percent off the cost of lodging. Golfers will enjoy complimentary breakfast each morning at the hotel as well.

The Black Friday All-Inclusive, which began on Monday, November 14 and runs through 11:59 p.m. on November 28, requires a minimum of a two-night stay and three rounds of golf. The offer can be booked for play anytime between Feb. 1 and Dec. 31, 2023, with the only blackout dates being April 13 - May 6.

This package is available through MyrtleBeachGolfTrips.com and MBN.com, among other area providers.

The Black Friday All-Inclusive package will allow players to book tee times during the spring and fall seasons, when weather and course conditions are ideal in Myrtle Beach. Players dealing with dreary weather elsewhere in the country can head to the Golf Capital of the World to enjoy 75-degree days and good times on and off the course.

Founders Group International, Myrtle Beach’s leading golf course operator, provides the best combination of quality and value in all of golf travel. Grande Dunes, which has five holes that play along Intracoastal Waterway, TPC Myrtle Beach, and King’s North, the iconic Arnold Palmer design, have all been ranked among America’s top 100 public courses.

Pawleys and Long Bay, a pair of Jack Nicklaus designs, are among the area’s most popular layouts, and historic Pine Lakes Country Club was Myrtle Beach’s first course. FGI’s family of courses have the ability to meet the needs of any golf group, magnifying the of the Black Friday All-Inclusive.

For more information on the Black Friday All-Inclusive, visit www.MyrtleBeachGolfTrips.com.

GOLFFOREVER Launches Black Friday/Cyber Monday Offer and New TV Campaign Through the Holidays


(Aspen, Colorado)
— GOLFFOREVER, the industry-leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, enters the holiday season with a new TV campaign launching on cable networks nationwide and starring reigning Masters champion, Scottie Scheffler. Additionally, it will offer consumers a special Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal of $174.99 (a $25 discount) on the GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer for its retail carriers, as well as on Golfforever.com. All purchasers receive a free 30-day subscription to the GOLFFOREVER golf fitness training app and free shipping if purchased on Golfforever.com. The offer will run from Wednesday, November 23, 2022 through Monday, November 28, 2022.

“With more than 100 tour players and thousands of golfers of all skill levels now using the GOLFFOREVER Training System, we’ve had an amazing year that we wanted to celebrate with a special offer,” says Managing Director Jon Levy. “Together with our new TV campaign running through the end of the year, we’re excited to widen our reach even further so golfers everywhere can improve their bodies, stay out of pain and play the game without limits.” 

Over the past year, GOLFFOREVER has experienced massive growth since releasing its groundbreaking Swing Trainer and solidifying partnerships with leading golf industry institutions and retailers. It brought on reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler as an official brand ambassador, launched a pilot program with Invited, a marquee charity partnership with Folds of Honor, and landed in leading golf retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods/Golf Galaxy and PGA Tour Superstore.

The GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer embodies three golf training tools in one and is a key piece of equipment used in the 4.9 App Store-rated GOLFFOREVER app, which delivers users personalized video workout and recovery plans from PGA Tour doctors and trainers. It’s an asymmetrical resistance training bar that builds strength and mobility for your swing at home. It’s a premium exercise band with handles and two resistance options for versatile training and stretching. It’s also a heavy warmup club optimized to a D3 Swing Weight that promotes thoracic mobility to loosen up at the course properly. Like every piece of equipment used in the app, the Swing Trainer comes to life with hundreds of step-by-step pre-round warmups, stretching routines, strength workouts and pain-relief protocols.

Retailing at $199.99, the Swing Trainer includes a 44.5-inch training bar; two power-grade, soft, sweat-resistant 15-inch rubber grips with five specialized training zone demarcations; two easy-to-attach polymer carabiners; light- and medium-resistance latex training cords with nylon safety sleeves; a universal nylon door anchor; two quick-interchangeable weighted balls for warming up and speed training; two interchangeable hand grips that transform the training cords into universal exercise resistance bands used in the GOLFFOREVER app’s warmups and workouts; and 30 days of full access to the GOLFFOREVER app for free. 

Earlier this year, Scheffler, the 2021-22 PGA Tour Player of the Year, started working with the first-of-its-kind product just weeks before winning four PGA Tour events, including the Masters, which catapulted him to the top of the world rankings. He is prominently featured in the TV campaign and other advertising, and appears in the GOLFFOREVER app using the Swing Trainer in a similar capacity to how he uses it in his own daily routines.

For more information, visit GolfForever.com.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Tiburón Golf Club Begins Run Of Hosting Three Professional Golf Events


(Naples, Fla.)
– Tiburón Golf Club at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples begins an incredible run this week of hosting three professional golf events over a four-month stretch. Tiburón is the only golf facility in the world to host LPGA Tour, PGA TOUR Champions and PGA TOUR-sanctioned tournaments. The LPGA Tour’s season-ending CME Group Tour Championship will be played this week (November 17 – 20, 2022), followed by the QBE Shootout, a PGA TOUR Challenge Event, December 7 – 11, 2022. After a two-month break, Tiburón will then play host to the PGA TOUR Champions’ Chubb Classic presented by SERVPRO, February 13 – 19, 2023. The CME Group Tour Championship and QBE Shootout will both played on Tiburón’s Gold Course, while the Chubb Classic will be contested on the Black Course at Tiburón.

LPGA Tour players have been accumulating points throughout the 2022 season to qualify for the CME Group Tour Championship. The top 60 points earners and ties will be competing in the Championship, vying for the $7 million purse and the $2 million winner’s check, the largest single prize in the history of women’s golf. Jin Young Ko is the event’s defending champion.

The QBE Shootout will feature 12 two-person teams consisting of 24 professionals, including PGA TOUR stars Jason Day, Max Homa, Billy Horschel, Kevin Kisner and Cameron Young, as well as LPGA TOUR stars Nelly Korda and Lexi Thompson. Team Troon member Matt Kuchar will again pair with teammate Harris English at the 2022 QBE Shootout. The most successful duo in Shootout history with three wins, Kuchar and English have also recorded two runner-up finishes.

2023 will mark the Chubb Classic’s 36th anniversary and the third straight year the event will be played at Tiburón. Bernhard Langer is expected to return to defend his 2022 title against many of the game’s biggest names, including Jim Furyk, Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, and Jerry Kelly as well as World Golf Hall of Fame and Team Troon member Colin Montgomerie.

“Our team is honored to once again have the privilege to host these three professional events in such a short period of time,” said Tiburón Golf Club General Manger Kevin DeDonato, PGA. “As our area recovers from the impact of Hurricane Ian, we are very proud to showcase the resiliency this market has in pressing forward.  Our entire team at Tiburon is grateful for the support we receive from all of our partners and we look forward for three successful events.” 

For more information on Tiburón Golf Club at the Ritz-Carlton Resort, Naples, please call (239) 593-2214 or visit www.tiburonnaples.com.

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

GOLF+ Announces Major Updates for the Holiday Season, Including New Courses and Swing Data


Playable Versions of Pebble Beach Golf Links and Pinehurst No. 2 Among Updates Aimed at Innovating the Virtual Reality Platform 

(AUSTIN, TX.) — GOLF+ – the leading VR golf application on the market – announces upcoming updates  to the GOLF+ experience in time for the holiday season, including the ability to play lifelike recreations of Pebble Beach Golf Links and Pinehurst No. 2, new equipment from Callaway Golf and TaylorMade, and game improvement capabilities like putting analysis and mini training games.

Using the Meta Quest 2 VR headset, GOLF+ users can now experience the subtleties of Donald Ross’s turtleback greens at Pinehurst and the wind-whipped tee shot at Pebble Beach’s 7th hole, all from the comfort of home. Pinehurst No. 2 will be available on the GOLF+ platform to play on Nov. 18, while Pebble Beach will be available Dec. 9. 

“GOLF+ provides an opportunity to introduce Pebble Beach to completely new audiences”, says David Stivers, CEO of Pebble Beach Company. “We are excited to bring one of the most iconic experiences in golf to life via the GOLF+ platform. Golfers will have the opportunity to walk virtually in the footsteps of golf’s greatest champions at one of golf’s most historic courses, Pebble Beach Golf Links.” 

“It’s exciting that players anywhere can experience the beauty and challenge that the No. 2 course has presented to the greatest golfers to ever play the game, all without leaving their living room,” says Pinehurst President, Tom Pashley. “GOLF+ has a chance to reach an unprecedented number of future golfers and we’re excited to introduce them to Pinehurst.”

Available in December, a groundbreaking new feature gives users the ability to analyze and understand every swing they take in GOLF+. The platform is able to collect and report more than 20 specific swing attributes — the same metrics used by tour pros to finetune their swings — to help users understand what they are doing well and where they can improve. GOLF+ is the first VR platform to equip golfers with swing visualization tools and insights that can help golfers of any skill level better understand the fundamentals of their swing.

“Our vision for GOLF+ has always been that it will allow golfers of all skill levels to deepen their relationship with the game,” says Ryan Engle, Co-Founder and CEO of GOLF+. “The platform is an on-ramp for those who have never picked up a club, a way to enjoy the sport again for elderly or disabled individuals, and now through the game improvement elements we’ve designed, a place where golfers can obtain useful guidance on how to improve their swing and have more fun on the course.” 

Additional updates include new team modes that will allow players to compete with friends anytime, any place in Stableford, Skins or Match Play formats. Golf junkies will be able to select from hundreds of unique items to build out their ideal bag setup, including the most popular new equipment from leading manufacturers, such as Callaway Golf and TaylorMade.

Fresh off investments from some of the biggest names in sports and business, including Breyer Capital, Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, Tom Brady, Stephen Curry, Mike Trout, Ben Crenshaw, and many others, the revolutionary platform is fulfilling its vision of making golf more accessible for everyone. 

Designed to be complementary to traditional golf, the GOLF+ VR experience removes typical barriers such as time restraints, greens fees and weather to allow users to play anywhere, anytime. For those who have never picked up a club in the real world, it offers a stress-free way to learn, play and practice at their own pace. Avid golfers can enjoy realistic physics and life-like recreations of some of the most iconic courses in the world. In less than a year since launch, the platform’s hundreds of thousands of golfers have played over six million rounds on the platform. 

GOLF+ is currently available on the Meta Quest 2 platform for $29.99. The game comes standard with Valhalla Golf Club, host of the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup, as well as three other fictional course designs. Users can add the famed Ocean Course at Kiawah Island and Wolf Creek Golf Club for just $7.99. The Pro Putt mini-golf game and virtual Topgolf hangout are also available free of charge. GOLF+ allows for both single-player and multiplayer options, making it ideal for solo practice or a social round. 

For more information, visit https://www.golfplusvr.com/.

Monday, November 14, 2022

Stewart Golf Partners with ORCA Golf


(Gloucester, U.K.)
— Leading British golf caddie manufacturer Stewart Golf has announced an exciting partnership with premium golf bag company, ORCA Golf. 

Founded in 2019, ORCA Golf is the only women-owned golf equipment company in the United States. Its principals, Deborah Bennett and Erica Bennett, are devoted to creating high-quality, lightweight golf bags that allow golfers to convey a personalized message or brand rather than carrying the name of a golf equipment company.

The boutique enterprise has been growing steadily, with sales doubling since ORCA Golf showcased its products at the 2022 PGA Exhibition and Trade Show. 

The partnership comes at a time when Stewart Golf continues its own growth and category dominance. Earlier this year, the company was included in the Sunday Times 100 Fastest Growing UK Businesses list, for its steady sales increases during a three-year period.

Mark Stewart, CEO of Stewart Golf said, “This is such an exciting new venture for Stewart Golf and this partnership with ORCA Golf opens the door for endless opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, with a brand that so closely matches our company ethos of providing golfers with the very best quality equipment.”

Firmly established as the ‘Leader In Follow,’ Stewart Golf’s innovative caddies use Bluetooth technology that enables them to follow the golfer down the fairway at the touch of a button. 

To kick off the partnership, Stewart Golf and ORCA Golf have launched a collaborative giveaway, giving customers the chance to win a prize package worth over $3000, including a new Stewart Golf X10 follow caddie and a personalized ORCA Golf bag. The giveaway is now live for a two-week period, ending November 25. Entries can be submitted via ORCA Golf’s website.

Deborah Bennett, co-founder of ORCA Golf said, “This partnership brings together two companies aligned in their commitment to produce the highest-quality products that meet the demands of today’s golfer. We are so happy to be working with Mark Stewart and his team.”

For more information, visit www.stewartgolfusa.com.

Unboxing the Clinch Golf Tactile Glove

Clinch Golf introduced the Clinch Tactile Glove, an all-weather modern performance golf glove designed to perform year-round, in rain or shine. Golfers whose grip is affected by moisture, whether from rain, sweat, or a frosty beverage will benefit from the glove’s superior fit and grip under all weather conditions.

Leather golf gloves slip when wet, trap moisture, and wear out quickly. The Clinch Tactile Glove’s modern design and innovative fabric enable the glove to grip when wet, breathe and last up to twice as long as regular golf gloves.

“Golf equipment is constantly evolving, and most everything has been innovated on except the golf glove,” said Matt Mahoney, co-founder of Clinch Golf. “Moisture will always be a factor in a golfer’s game. Hands get wet, and it affects the grip. We wanted to solve this problem through thoughtful design and innovative fabrics. We believe we’ve achieved that and more with the Clinch Tactile Glove.”

The Clinch Tactile Glove combines a proprietary CrushGroove fabric, for a no-slip grip with a poly-spandex blend fabric for a flexible fit and maximum breathability. An internal thermoplastic urethane (TPU) overlay supports a snug feel and inhibits wear and tear. Additionally, the gloves are machine washable and phone-friendly.

“The Clinch Tactile Glove is a modern performance glove that delivers a long-lasting, all-conditions grip for core golfers,” continued Mahoney. “The traditional golf glove was due for an upgrade.”

The Clinch Tactile Glove comes in blue, black and gray and sizes XS through XL. It retails for $25.

Learn more at www.clinchgolf.com.

Direct-to-Consumer Golf Brands Tee Up Huge Black Friday, Cyber Monday Deals

TRUE linkswear

When it comes to golf equipment and apparel, no channel has grown like direct-to-consumer over the past two years. This exponential increase was partly out of necessity during the pandemic, sure. But as an unintended byproduct, consumer comfort level with buying anything from full sets of golf clubs to hoodies and hats online has reached an all-time high and shows no signs of slowing down.  

Never is this more evident than the approximate two-week shopping extravaganza that kicks off a week before Black Friday and typically ends on Cyber Monday at midnight. Rather than two singular points in time, these two mega-shopping dates have morphed into a fortnight of fun for savvy Internet shoppers. In fact, all golfers really need to do is sit back and watch the emails hitting their inboxes over the next few days.

Here’s the early scoop on a few white-hot brands offering epic savings as we approach the holiday and peak gift-giving season.

TRUE linkswear

Pacific Northwest TRUE linkswear has flexed hard during the latter half of 2022 with the drop of its new Future Staples golf shoe line and foray into the apparel realm with the introduction of its All Day Pants. This coming off a banner year in 2021 in which the brand received a multi-million-dollar private equity infusion and announced a series of high-profile ambassadors like Joel Dahmen and Christina Kim. 

And the iconic brand helmed by brothers Jason and Ryan Moore is rewarding its legions of fans who #EnjoyTheWalk this season with 20% to 70% off sitewide through Nov. 28th. Additionally, “Featured Deals” include the All Day Knit II starting at $79 and the Lux Sport starting at $89. TRUE’s also offering 10% off orders of $250 or more with code BF10 and 15% off orders of $500 or more with BF15.

For more information visit www.truelinkswear.com.

RADMOR

RADMOR

To borrow a phrase from Ron Burgundy, RADMOR co-founder Scott Morrison was “kind of a big deal” in the denim industry before launching the Seattle-based brand with his former University of Washington golf teammate Bob Conrad. With an unwavering commitment to the underlying environment, Morrison brings that same style and function to golf apparel. RADMOR is the first golf apparel brand to focus on eliminating virgin polyester in its wares.

Its crisply-designed polos, pants, shorts and outerwear are primarily made from extra-long-staple cotton. While it can take polyester hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill, cotton will break down in a fraction of that time. For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, RADMOR keeps it simple: 25% off sitewide starting on Thanksgiving Day, including its new Fall / Winter line which just dropped.

For more information visit www.radmorgolf.com.

OnCore Golf

OnCore

If financial guru Charles Schwab and All-Pro Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen are both investors, the average golfer can rest assured their game (and their money) is in good hands. Buffalo, N.Y.-based OnCore Golf was a vaunted “first mover” in the DTC golf ball category. It tapped into its team of nano scientists to create a proprietary perimeter weighting technology that produces golf balls that fly longer and straighter.

In 2022, OnCore dropped two brand new models – the three-piece ELIXR 2022 and the four-piece VERO X2. For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, OnCore is rolling out one of its biggest sales of the year: buy two dozen, get a dozen free. The offer is valid on any of its five high-performance golf balls: AVANT 55, ELIXR 2020, ELIXR 2022, VERO X1 and the aforementioned VERO X2, which just landed on Golf Digest’s vaunted Hot List. OnCore has also hinted a killer deals on branded merch, like polos, hoodies, golf gloves, tees and more. 

For more information visit www.oncoregolf.com.

Friday, November 11, 2022

Jack Nicklaus Once Again Surprises Military Veterans with a Golf Lesson in Honor of Veterans Day and the PGA National Day of HOPE


(JUPITER, Fla.)
– Imagine being invited to play a round of golf at Jack Nicklaus’ Florida home club and getting a surprise lesson from none other than the 18-time major champion himself.

For the third straight year, Nicklaus gave some hometown military heroes who participate in the South Florida PGA Section PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program a memory for a lifetime at The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, Florida. 

In celebration of both Veterans Day and the PGA National Day of HOPE, Nicklaus thanked the playing group of Veterans for their service and shared instructional tips, before inviting them out as his guests for a day on the championship golf course that he designed and is played regularly by up to 30 PGA TOUR pros who are members. 

As the military pillar of PGA REACH, PGA HOPE is designed to introduce golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. PGA REACH and PGA HOPE aspire to create a physically and emotionally healthier Veteran community through a six- to eight-week curriculum led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. 

U.S. Army Veteran First Lt. (Ret.) Robert Truckenmiller received a Purple Heart after being shot in the Vietnam War. Other than hearing from other Veterans from time to time, he said that when he got a call from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) inviting him to take part in the PGA HOPE program, it was the first real “welcome home” feeling he ever received for his service. 

“The PGA of America reaches out to Veterans, they reach out to all different people,” explained Nicklaus, who is the only sportsman and just the fourth person in history to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005), the Congressional Gold Medal (2015) and the Lincoln Medal (2018). “It is a great organization. PGA HOPE is impactful on its own, but they also collaborate with other organizations, such as partnering with Folds of Honor for Patriot Golf Days. I have great admiration and respect for the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country’s freedom, and try to get behind efforts to help our Veterans, as well as their families. For me to do my little part—even to a small group—I am delighted to do so, especially for the PGA HOPE program.”

PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the VA, which enables Recreational Therapists to refer Veterans to PGA HOPE as a form of therapy.

Truckenmiller was quite surprised when Nicklaus stepped out on the driving range. 

“I’m a little bit awestruck,” said Truckenmiller. “He’s probably the best golfer ever, and he was most gracious. He helped me with my putting, on lining my ball up, and to stop moving my head. He told me to stare at it when I hit it.

“I lost my wife of 54 years three months ago. This is a remedy for some of the loneliness.”

U.S. Air Force Sgt. (Ret.) Pamela Carter, of Wellington, Florida, lost her brother, Bruce, in the Vietnam War. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously, and the VA Medical Center in Miami is named after him. When Nicklaus approached Pamela and gave her a lesson, she quickly reached in her pocket and handed him a challenge coin with her brother’s photo on it.

“I was just shocked he was here,” said Carter. “I stumbled on PGA HOPE and signed up for it. Meeting true war heroes who are now being respected puts a new spin on it. PGA HOPE reaches out and makes us feel welcome.”

U.S. Army/Air Force Reserves Sgt. (Ret.) Homer Watts Jr. had the thrill of a lifetime. 

“Oh my goodness,” Watts said. “He’s a legend. It was a total shock. I was very surprised. PGA HOPE is such an amazing program. It gets people out of the hospital and into other activities. You meet great instructors who take their time with you. It’s almost like family. Actually, it’s just like family.”

Joining them for instruction and the round of golf was 2022 South Florida PGA Section Patriot Award recipient Jerry Impellittiere, PGA Director of Instruction at Monarch Country Club in Palm City. Impellittiere originally learned the game from PGA Professionals at West Point Golf Course and now pays it forward by teaching two PGA HOPE Programs.

He is known as “The Collector,” as he collects donated golf clubs to give to Veterans for them to learn and play the game. Ironically, Impellittiere once played in a grouping with Nicklaus and Dave Stockton at the B.C. Open, two players renowned for their putting.

“I didn’t make the cut, but I led the PGA TOUR in putting stats that year,” said Impellittiere. 

Nicklaus has a long-held fondness for the nation’s military and the incredible sacrifices made by service members.

“These people have earned the help of all Americans,” said Nicklaus. “I enjoy doing this. I want to be a part of it, especially if it makes a difference. I am very honored.”

This year, PGA HOPE aims to impact the lives of over 7,500 Veterans through its transformational program led by PGA Professionals, and has set a goal of 36,000 annually by 2026.

In its sixth year, PGA National Day of HOPE is a month-long campaign running through Veterans Day. The campaign celebrates our nation’s heroes who protect our freedom, while raising awareness and support for PGA HOPE.  

‘THE ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican’ to Feature $3.25 Million Purse in 2023, Largest on the LPGA Tour Outside of Majors and CME

Hall-of-Famer Annika Sorenstam to Host Tampa Bay’s Signature LPGA Tour Event in new Multi-Year Partnership, Benefiting the ANNIKA Foundation

(BELLEAIR, Fla.) – The Pelican Women’s Championship and the LPGA Tour announced today that starting in 2023, THE ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican will feature a tournament purse of $3.25 million – the largest on the LPGA Tour outside of the major championships and the CME Group Tour Championship – with proceeds benefiting the ANNIKA Foundation.

A new multi-year partnership with World Golf and LPGA Hall-of-Fame member Annika Sorenstam and LPGA Tour partners Gainbridge and Pelican Golf Club, THE ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican will take place Nov. 6-12, 2023. The championship will feature a 120-player field competing at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla., for a share of the elevated $3.25 million purse and continuing to serve as the penultimate event on the LPGA Tour schedule. As the sole namesake event on the LPGA Tour, Sorenstam will serve as tournament host, which will allow her to further integrate the ANNIKA Foundation’s initiatives and programs into Tampa Bay’s signature LPGA Tour event.

“I’m incredibly honored to host one of the premier events on the LPGA Tour schedule starting in 2023 and give back to the game I love while mentoring the next generation of players,” said Sorenstam. “I look forward to working alongside my friends at the LPGA Tour, Pelican Golf Club and Gainbridge in continuing to elevate this championship to one of the premier events on the LPGA Tour.”

“Today’s purse increase announcement at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican is a gigantic step forward for the LPGA and a fitting tribute to Annika’s enormous impact on women’s golf and on women’s sports more broadly. It is also a significant nod to the world-class talent of the current LPGA players,” said Mollie Marcoux Samaan, LPGA Commissioner. “We are grateful to Dan Towriss, Dan Doyle Jr., and our friends at Gainbridge and Pelican for honoring and supporting Annika, her foundation and all our amazing LPGA Tour athletes. We look forward to this unique championship continuing to elevate the LPGA and the women’s game for many years to come.”

“The opportunity for us to create ‘THE ANNIKA’ in partnership with Pelican Golf Club and increasing the tournament purse to $3.25 million allows Gainbridge to continue its longtime support of the LPGA Tour and its world-class athletes, while at the same celebrating the legacy of the greatest woman golfer in the modern era,” said Dan Towriss, CEO and President of Group 1001, the parent organization of Gainbridge. “By supporting THE ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, alongside our recent partnership with tennis legend Billie Jean King and the Billie Jean King Cup, Gainbridge will continue to showcase women’s sports and the contributions of these legendary athletes both in and outside of the competitive arena.”

“Having a global icon in Annika teaming up with Gainbridge and us at Pelican Golf Club to elevate the tournament purse to $3.25 million as we head into 2023 is an amazing start to our long-term partnership,” said Dan Doyle Jr., Pelican Golf Club. “You want to make this the best championship it can be? You bring in one of the biggest names in golf. We look forward to the continued teamwork and collaboration in celebrating these world-class players both on and off the golf course.”

During her 15-year Hall-of-Fame career, Annika rewrote the LPGA and Ladies European Tour record books, and amassed over 90 worldwide wins, including 72 on the LPGA Tour and 10 major championships. She won a record eight Rolex Player of the Year awards, was the first woman in 58 years to play on the PGA TOUR, the only LPGA player to shoot 59, and is still the LPGA’s all-time money leader with over $22 million in earnings. Following her Hall of Fame career, Sorenstam started the ANNIKA Foundation in 2007 with the goal of developing women’s golf around the world and encouraging children to lead healthy, active lifestyles. The ANNIKA Foundation hosts seven global events for girls, with more than 600 juniors from 60 countries competing annually. Nearly 90 ANNIKA Foundation alumni are competing on the LPGA Tour.

Pelican Golf Club has hosted The Pelican Women’s Championship since 2020, with Sei Young Kim capturing her 12th LPGA Tour victory at the inaugural championship. The 2021 Pelican Women’s Championship was contested last November with fans in attendance for the first time. Nelly Korda defeated Lexi Thompson, Lydia Ko and defending champion Kim on the first playoff hole to capture her fourth victory in 2021 and seventh overall.

The 2022 Pelican Women’s Championship, taking place Nov. 10-13, will feature a 120-player field competing for a share of a $2 million purse. The event will be the penultimate event on the 2022 LPGA Tour schedule and the final opportunity for players to qualify for the CME Group Tour Championship.

For the past three years, Gainbridge has served as title sponsor for LPGA Tour events contested at Boca Rio Golf Club in Boca Raton, Fla., in 2020 and 2022 as well as at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando in 2021. Gainbridge served as the sponsor for the LPGA Tour’s Indy Women in Tech Championship in Indianapolis from 2017-2019.

In September, Gainbridge and the International Tennis Federation announced a long-term partnership with global tennis icon Billie Jean King as title partner for the Billie Jean King Cup, the largest women’s team tennis competition worldwide. Through partnerships with two of women’s sports biggest icons, Group 1001 and its subsidiaries, including Gainbridge, are focused on service and community transformation with investments in key partnerships that help transform lives through sports and education.

For more information on the 2022 Pelican Women’s Championship, visit PelicanLPGA.com and on social media: @PelicanLPGA on Twitter, @PelicanLPGA on Instagram and Pelican Women's Championship on Facebook.

Pinehurst Area CVB, SkyNav Launch Immersive 360-degree Virtual Tour


State-of-the-Art Technology Takes Visitors on a 3D Tour of the Pinehurst Area

(SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.) – The Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has announced the launch of the first of its kind virtual tour for the Pinehurst area, using advanced virtual and augmented technology produced by SkyNav. Visitors and event planners can now experience the Home of American Golf using high-definition panoramic imaging that creates a 360-degree world including 3D objects, interactive text and image galleries, video integrations, and augmented reality.

SKYNAV’s exclusive sky-to-ground technology is designed to keep viewers engaged, improve click-through rates, and skyrocket ROI for their clients, which in this case are visitors and events coming to the Pinehurst area. Points of interest in the tour include Pinehurst Resort, the Village of Pinehurst, downtown Southern Pines, downtown Aberdeen, Carthage, and dozens of other places. By clicking a mouse, travel from town to town from above and also check out street level scenes and businesses.

“We are proud to partner with SKYNAV to highlight our destination for our visitors and meeting planners in a way never seen before in the history of the CVB,” said Phil Werz, president and CEO of the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area CVB. “The immersive technology allows people to navigate the destination with amazing aerials and ground level views. For people that are thinking about a visit to the Home of American Golf, this is a great way to understand the area better before arriving here.”

The SkyNav 3D tour consists of six aerial and 21 ground 360° panoramas that encompass select areas of interest in Moore County. The tour uses the latest developments of interactivity with more than 40 information beacons that are strategically placed throughout the tour. This 3D technology allows visitors to either “fly” or go “ground level” to explore an area, fully immersing themselves via one of the CVB’s multiple videos, hotspots, view imagine galleries, or click-throughs to partner websites. Users can also share the tour via social channels and email, view the areas via Google maps, and follow the CVB’s social media channels.

To take the tour, go to the CVB website at HomeofGolf.com and click 360 Tour at the top of the homepage. 

Stewart Golf Offers Special Pricing For “Black Friday” Week


World’s Best Electric Golf Caddies At Least 20% Off All Online Purchases

(Gloucester, U.K.) – Black Friday has wheels.  Stewart Golf—the British-based manufacturer of the world’s best electric caddies—is giving a 20% discount, and sometimes more, on any online order placed between during the week of Black Friday, from Monday, November 21 to Monday, November 28.

They’re calling it “The Glitch,” letting the Stewart Golf website (www.stewartgolfusa.com)

take control, potentially giving buyers even greater savings—if they’re lucky.

“Stewart Golf’s electric caddies are very much like Bentleys,” said Today’s Golfer. “They’re made in Britain with high-quality materials, you don’t see them at every turn and new models only come to market after years of hard work and innovation. And that’s exactly the case with the Q Follow.”

Stewart Golf’s Q Follow, a market leader in electric golf caddies, comes loaded with an impressive array of features: 

The Q Follow features Stewart Golf’s industry-leading Follow technology – truly the best way to play golf. This electric caddie also features full Remote-control functionality, with a Remote distance of up to 55 yards.

When folded it measures just 23.6 x 21.5 x 12.5 inches, making it the most compact follow caddie available—small enough to fit in the trunk of a Porsche and weighing only 31 pounds.

The all-new SmartPower battery is available in 18-hole and 36-hole models and has enough juice to conquer even the hilliest courses.

An automatically retracting stabilizer wheel keeps the Q Follow safe and steady over all terrains.

Q Follow electric caddies start at $2,699 and also come in Remote models (non-follow) from $2,199.

The Stewart Golf X10, also comes in Follow or Remote. Using 7th Generation Follow Technology, the X10 stays in control with a remote-control range up to 55 yards. Battery options include 18- or 36-hole options. Prices for the X10 start at $1,999.

Stewart’s top-of-the-line pushcart, the R Series, is also included in the online promotion, and is priced at $299.

For more information, visit www.stewartgolfusa.com.

Power Tee Poised for Aggressive Growth in North America


Golf practice innovator continues expansion with next-level driving range experiences

(PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL) – Power Tee, innovators in technology that drives game improvement, golfer engagement and practice facility revenues, is positioned to expand its presence in the United States in the coming year. Already the most-commonly used hitting mats in most of the United Kingdom, the company is implementing its proven formula in North America with a growing number of valued partnerships. The Power Tee business concept is now evolving to make that a tangible reality in the not-too-distant future.  

Driving range and golf course owners are seeing increased revenues from Power Tee hitting bays versus traditional grass or mat bays because Power Tee users hit more balls per practice session and spend more time at Power Tee stations. In turn, food-and-beverage and retail sales increase at these facilities.

Featuring patented technology that’s been perfected through years of engineering, Power Tee ensures a perfect automatically teed ball every time a golfer swings. Whether at a stand-alone driving range, on-course practice range, private club, indoor golf entertainment complex or in private home golf studios, golfers are quickly discovering the merits of having a ball teed up for them in seconds. Moreover, each ball is positioned to the exact height the player needs for every lie and swing. The user experience enables more consistent swings and the ability to find a productive practice groove more quickly during each range session.

“We’re in more than 80 percent of U.K. driving ranges,” says Martin Wyeth, founder and CEO. “I believe that within 20 years, it will be almost unheard of for practicing golfers to tee up their own ball. Once you've experienced Power Tee and understand its benefits and the swing mechanics for actually grooving in a swing change, there's very little point in practicing any other way.” 

U.S. facilities have already begun converting their tees, and Power Tee is now installed at 400 ranges and clubs across 18 countries. In the past six months, alone, there have been 15 new installations of 208 total machines. Some 6 million golf balls are now teed up daily on a Power Tee.

The concept is simple: Load up to 100 balls in the hopper. A ball will pop up on the tee automatically after loading, and then again after each hit. To ensure realistic lie conditions, the tee offers up to 40 tee heights that can be quickly adjusted at the push of a control panel button. The Fiberbuilt Strike Mat and cushioned standing mat that Power Tee uses are the highest quality golf mats in the industry, ensuring a comfortable experience. Golfers find far better results hitting off Power Tee by never having to get out of position while build confidence and consistency. Power Tee also provides a clean platform to hit shots from every time, minimizing injuries to wrists, forearms, and elbows from repeated harsh impact on a hardened range mat or damaged grass. For golfers who value clean contact, pleasing turf interaction and efficient practice time, Power Tee is a gamechanger.

One owner/operator who has seen immediate benefits is Magnolia Golf Management CEO Adam Owen. Magnolia’s three Austin, TX golf courses, Avery Ranch Golf Club, Falconhead Golf Club and Teravista Golf Club, have all had Power Tee range stations since May and impact on business and customer satisfaction has been significant.

“The opportunity to take our ranges – which already featured Toptracer Range – to a new experience and a new quality level, attracted to us to Power Tee,” Owen says. “We installed nearly 100 Power Tee units across our three courses, and it’s been fantastic. Our average ROI - with Power Tee versus without it - yields an increase in revenue of about 18 to 20 percent monthly. To have consistent turf conditions every day and mats that people truly enjoy hitting off of is a game-changer as is not having to move the practice tees around constantly based on heavy use.”

Power Tee is endorsed by PGA Tour professional Jim Furyk who is also a company shareholder. “Jim likes the product and has one at home. He hits a lot of balls off it. Obviously with his wrist injury, he likes to have a surface that doesn't hurt it. And he’s been immensely supportive,” Wyeth adds.

2018 Team Europe Ryder Cup Captain Thomas Bjorn, and elite golf instructor Mitchell Spearman also endorse Power Tee.

This year, Power Tee installations have begun with machines featuring a prefabricated deck – allowing Power Tee to drop the deck right into place on the range – up to 10 at a time – and complete a full installation in as little as four hours. This will also help reduce costs.

“Our mats are engineered to feel good, and to last well,” Wyeth says. “Under our operation program where we lease the equipment, we replace those mats every 20 months, so they never get hard or compacted. They never feel bad. We have a customer up in Canada, who has a huge grass tee line with 21 mats under cover. And when we met him, 80 percent of his business was done on grass. Within a year of Power Tee being installed, 80 percent of his business was done on the Power Tees. It was a complete reversal. Once facilities try it and see their customers’ enjoyment of the product, it's a one-way street. They see that it's such a good way to practice and operate their tee line.”

For more information about this revolutionary technology, visit PowerTee.com, or email the team at info@powertee.com.

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Eastside Golf and Jordan Brand Drop Second Co-Branded Sneaker Collaboration


(ATLANTA)
— Following the debut collaboration between Eastside Golf and Jordan Brand on the 2021 Air Jordan 4 Golf, officials from Eastside Golf hosted an exclusive kickoff party in Atlanta to debut their latest co-branded sneaker collab with off-course sneakers the Air Jordan 1 Low and the Air Jordan 12 Mid along with on-course golf shoes the Air Jordan 1 High Golf, the Air Jordan 12 Low Golf and the Jordan ADG Golf.  

The theme for the collection is OUT OF THE MUD: For the second time, Jordan Brand and Eastside Golf have partnered in developing a capsule collection to inspire young professionals and show that golf can be used as a tool to help them progress in life. 

Olajuwon Ajanaku, the Founder of Eastside Golf grew up in East Atlanta. He gained a golf scholarship to Morehouse College and won a National Championship alongside his co-founder, Earl Cooper. Together, the two formed Eastside Golf with a mission to build a lifestyle golf brand developed to raise awareness about golf among youth and non-golfers and to inspire the culture, promote diversity and continue to be authentic.

While mud is almost universally regarded as negative, many young entrepreneurs are flipping the narrative and embracing the mud as the inspiration for their achievement and the ground floor from which it only gets better.

Not only has Eastside Golf embraced the concept of getting it "out of the mud," the use of red clay on the product as a visual cue is a direct nod to their own journey of overcoming adversity through the game of golf.

The collection is a tangible artifact showing that golf can be, and is, a way to help you win in life. Jordan Brand and Eastside Golf come together to drive a movement around the game of golf. A movement that authentically adds diversity to the game and breaks down barriers by creating an alternative to the sport’s inherent elitism that feels not only aspirational, but also representative of the future.

Out of the red clay, out of the mud…into your goals:

Air Jordan XII Low Golf - Eastside Golf

Returning to Michael Jordan's game-winning classic—but this time built for golf—the AJ12 Low gears up for the course with a springy, full-length Zoom Air unit, plus a hybrid outsole with integrated traction and 7 removable spikes. Transcending traditional golf attire, the design's Metallic Gold accents add flash to your step while sunrise-inspired stitch lines on the upper recall the original '96 design. The Burnt Sunrise outsole symbolizes red clay mud —a reminder that you can overcome adversity, no matter where a bad shot lands you. With legendary looks, all-star features, and Eastside Golf branding throughout, there's nothing stopping you from hitting the back 9.

Air Jordan 12 - Eastside Golf

Transcending traditional golf attire, the AJ12’s design's premium leather and neutral colorway pair with Metallic Gold accents takes a unique pivot from the course to the basketball court. The Burnt Sunrise outsole has a "mud-splatter" effect—a reminder that you can overcome adversity, no matter where a bad shot lands you. Eastside Golf branding, a special edition hangtag, and a custom shoebox add an authentic finish to your game. 

Air Jordan 1 High Golf - Eastside Golf

Tailoring the timeless look of MJ's first signature shoe for the golf course, the AJ1 High will keep you comfortable for 18 holes (or even 36). The design's crisp leather gives a premium feel while Metallic Gold accents add some flash to your swing. The grippy Burnt Sunrise outsole symbolizes red clay mud —a reminder that you can overcome adversity, no matter where a bad shot lands you. Eastside Golf branding and a custom shoebox add an authentic finish to your game.   

Air Jordan 1 Low - Eastside Golf

The AJ1 Low’s supple Midnight Navy nubuck gives a premium feel while Metallic Gold lace tips add flash to your stride for wherever life may take you. The Redstone outsole symbolizes red clay mud —a reminder that you can overcome adversity, no matter where a bad shot lands you. Eastside Golf branding, a special edition hangtag, and a custom shoebox add an authentic finish to your game. 

Jordan x Eastside Golf ADG

The Jordan x Eastside Golf ADG 4 infuses a classic silhouette with nods of Jordan soul. Full-grain, waterproof leather adorns the upper and is coupled with the iconic elephant print on the heel. A tonal Eastside Golf tongue label and red-clay accents connect the silhouette to the “Out the Mud” collection. The rubber sole has an integrated traction pattern that perfectly pairs the grip you need with the versatility and comfort you want.

This is the next generation of golf. You ready?

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

USGA, R&A Announce 2023 Rules of Golf Update


(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J., USA, and ST. ANDREWS, Scotland)
– The USGA and The R&A have unveiled a regular update to the Rules of Golf as they continue to make the Rules easier to understand and apply. The new Rules will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

The 2023 edition continues the modernization process, with an emphasis on both inclusion and sustainability. For the first time, the modified Rules for players with disabilities have been fully incorporated into the playing rules without the need to adopt a local rule. The governing bodies, supported by longstanding partner Rolex, will also promote digital and mobile app access to the Rules while significantly reducing the production and distribution of more than 4 million printed books.

Several penalties have been relaxed and language has been clarified to help golfers at all levels of play.

Key changes include:

- Modifications for Players with Disabilities: The modifications to the Rules for players with disabilities have been made part of the Rules and are in effect for all players who are classified in the categories covered in Rule 25

- Handicap Usage in Stroke Play: With the continued growth of score-posting technology following the adoption of the World Handicap System™, players are no longer penalized for failing to put their handicap on their scorecard in stroke play. The committee will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of each player’s handicap.

- Club Damaged During Round: The Rule has been amended to allow a player to replace a club that is damaged during a round, provided the player did not damage it through abuse.

- Ball Moved by Natural Forces: A new exception provides that a ball at rest must be replaced if it moves to another area of the course or comes to rest out of bounds after being dropped, placed or replaced.

- Back-on-the-Line Relief Procedure: The back-on-the-line relief procedure, often used for penalty area and unplayable ball relief, has been simplified so that the player now drops their ball on the line, and the ball must come to rest within one club-length of where it is dropped.

Golfers will be able to learn more about the major changes and review the official 2023 Rules of Golf by visiting www.usga.org/2023Rules and https://www.randa.org/. Full updates to the official Rules of Golf digital applications will be available starting on January 1.

“The growing popularity of golf continues to guide our decision-making, and modernizing the Rules to promote inclusivity and accessibility is clearly a great step in the right direction,” said Thomas Pagel, USGA Chief Governance Officer. “This latest evolution is especially important to the community of golfers with disabilities, and we hope it will encourage more people to play and enjoy the game.”

Grant Moir, Director of Rules at The R&A, said, “We are continuing to improve and adapt the Rules of Golf to ensure they are in line with the way the modern game is played. That means making the Rules easier to understand and access for all golfers and making the sport more inclusive and welcoming for golfers with disabilities. We are also working to ensure golf has a sustainable long-term future and making more resources available digitally is key to achieving that goal.”

Players are reminded that the current edition of the Rules of Golf (2019) still applies when playing or posting scores for the remainder of 2022.

As an extension of their support of the Rules of Golf worldwide, Rolex has made a commitment to support The R&A’s and the USGA’s efforts to modernize golf’s Rules. The Swiss watchmaker’s contribution to excellence in golf is based on a rich heritage stretching back more than 50 years, forged through pivotal partnerships at every level of the game, from the sport’s leading professional and amateur competitions and organizations to players at the pinnacle of their sport worldwide.

GOLFFOREVER Partners with Folds of Honor


Leading golf fitness brand supports military families with promotions, video training, live events

(Aspen, Colorado) — GOLFFOREVER, the industry-leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the influential and impactful Folds of Honor foundation; the renowned nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Beginning in 2022, Folds of Honor expanded its mission to include first responders.

GOLFFOREVER will publicize and support Folds of Honor in several ways beginning this fall, while building toward Folds of Honor-branded products in 2023. The top golf fitness brand will also produce motivational and exercise series with Folds of Honor Founder and CEO Lt Col Dan Rooney that will be incorporated into the GOLFFOREVER app and future Folds of Honor programs.

Founded in 2007 by Lt Col Rooney, the only F-16 fighter pilot to also be a PGA Professional, Folds of Honor has awarded about 44,000 scholarships to military spouses and children, totaling about $200 million in all 50 states. Among the students served, 41 percent are minorities. It is rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and Platinum on GuideStar.

“GOLFFOREVER is humbled and excited to champion the vital work of Folds of Honor and Lt Col Dan Rooney,” says GOLFFOREVER managing director Jon Levy. “Supporting our military, and now first responders, is a core value of our business and has been personally for (Founder and CEO) Dr. Jeremy James in his practice for years. We’re ready to do our part to significantly impact this organization and can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get started.”

“Every Folds of Honor story is a message of sheer inspiration, and I couldn’t be prouder to align with an organization like this,” added James. “We’re honored that Lt Col Rooney has embraced this partnership and is willing to work proactively with our team to help impact even more families. It’s the start of a great and impactful partnership ahead.”

The GOLFFOREVER web site now features an exclusive Folds of Honor GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer package (at golfforever.com/folds-of-honor/) priced at $219.99, with 20 percent of every sale going directly to Folds of Honor. Customers who purchase the package will receive a special Folds of Honor T-Shirt.

GOLFFOREVER will be participating in Folds of Honor events to share the benefits of the GOLFFOREVER Training System, starting with the Folds of Honor Cup on November Feb. 13., 2023 at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando. Future plans also include an exercise and motivational series featuring Lt Col Rooney, who is a longtime fitness and wellness advocate himself.

“We are grateful to GOLFFOREVER for helping provide a life-changing education for military and first responder dependents,” said Lt Col Rooney. “GOLFFOREVER is committed to improving peoples’ lives through better fitness and longevity. We are pleased to align with this forward-thinking and dynamic brand as we partner to better the lives of families across the nation.”

GOLFFOREVER is the first golf-specific home training program to embrace the approach of home exercise equipment paired with streaming instruction, customizing each golfer’s exercise routines specifically for them, based on a proprietary strength and flexibility test. Over the past year, the company has experienced massive growth since launching its groundbreaking Swing Trainer and solidifying key partnerships with golf industry institutions and leading golf retailers. It brought on World No. 1 golfer and reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler as an official brand ambassador and has made a significant impact on tour with more than 100 PGA Tour, PGA Tour Champions and LPGA Tour pros using the GOLFFOREVER Training System. With its 4.9 App Store-rated app – the engine delivering users personalized daily workout and recovery plans from top PGA Tour doctors and trainers – and other training and recovery products launching soon, GOLFFOREVER is poised to accelerate its growth trajectory further.

Learn more at GolfForever.com and foldsofhonor.org.

Blue Tees Golf Introduces the Limited-Edition Whiteout Collection


Both the Series 3 Max rangefinder and Player speaker are NOW available in a fresh and minimalistic white color

(LOS ANGELES, CA) – Award-winning producer of golf rangefinders and accessories, Blue Tees Golf, announced today that the company has expanded the color offerings of both the Series 3 Max rangefinder and Player speaker to include a limited-edition white option.

“White is clean, fresh, and compliments the contemporary styling of both the Series 3 Max rangefinder and Player speaker. It is a color that golfers from any demographic will gravitate toward,” said Blue Tees Golf CEO Chris Markham. “Color plays a big part in consumers’ buying decisions, so we decided we should offer colors to match any golfer’s style, and that includes white.”

New color, same innovation. The white Series 3 Max includes the same advanced features  as the original Series 3 Max rangefinder colors — adaptive slope switch, built-in magnet, Auto-Ambient Display, advanced flag lock and pulse vibration, 900-yard range, and a weatherproof case.

The Player is a portable, magnetic, and wireless speaker engineered to deliver a rich audio experience. The Player magnetic speaker delivers superior sound, dual pairing, 100 ft Bluetooth range, IPX-7 waterproof durability, and a power bank — and can be used on or off the course with indoor and outdoor modes.

The limited-edition white Series 3 Max retails for $269.99, and the limited-edition white Player speaker retails for $129.99. Both are available now for the holiday season. For more information on the Blue Tees Golf Whiteout, visit the https://www.blueteesgolf.com/pages/whiteout.

Swing Control to Participate in the Atlantic Buying Show


The sophisticated apparel brand will showcase its new 2023 spring collection 

(MONTRĖAL, CA) – Swing Control, manufacturers of the performance-based golf and lifestyle apparel brand, continues to support the PGA of Canada and their buying shows. The company proudly announces it will exhibit at the Atlantic Buying Show in St. John, New Brunswick, Canada from November 8-10 at the Hilton Saint John.

“We’ve enjoyed a busy and successful buying season. Last month we exhibited at the PGA of Canada Alberta Show and the BPG Show where the new fall styles and 2023 spring catalog helped to drive existing and new business,” said Swing Control Brand Manager Josh Mark. “The company opened new accounts as well as strike new and exciting deals with high-profile clubs. We look forward to the same success at the Atlantic Show.”

The PGA of Canada Atlantic Buying Show welcomes PGA Members and buyers from Atlantic, Canada which includes New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, and Labrador. Swing Control’s objective in participating in the Atlantic Buying Show is to gain traction and brand awareness in these regions within Atlantic territory.

“If you are attending the Atlantic Buying Show, please visit the Swing Control booth. Our team would be happy to show our performance-based and stylish lines with you.” If you would like to schedule a meeting, feel free to reach out to Josh Mark at josh@swingcontrol.com.

Monday, November 7, 2022

Cleveland Golf Announces New HB SOFT Milled Putter Line


(HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.)
— Cleveland Golf, is proud to introduce the new HB SOFT Milled line of putters. Discover how milling is available for all with the HB SOFT Milled, officially launching on Nov. 18, 2022. 

“The HB SOFT Milled putter line delivers milled precision at a remarkable value,” said Haley Wian, Business Planning Manager at Cleveland Golf. “With a variety of head shapes, alignment options, and a fitting system to match any stroke type, there is an HB SOFT Milled putter to help upgrade your putting performance.”

The new line of putters provides a premium combination of features and technologies at an irresistible price point. HB SOFT Milled starts with each putter shape being cast in molten steel before the face and back are precision milled for performance purposes – the face for consistent distance and the back for a razor-sharp address view. Then, the sole is hand polished to an exacting tolerance before completing the process.

Featuring a refined Speed Optimized Face Technology (SOFT) which helps to alleviate the issue of distance control, SOFT offers model specific milling that normalizes ball speeds across the entire putter face for a pure, consistent roll regardless of putter shape.

Depending on stroke type and alignment preference, there is a new model to fit every stroke. For Slight Arc stroke types, the Golf Pride PRO ONLY Red Star is a tour-preferred pistol shape grip that is designed to help turn the putter over through the putting stroke. For Straight stroke types, the Golf Pride PRO ONLY Green Star has a rounded, oval-back shape for comfortable hand positioning and to help keep the hands quiet through the stroke. 

With this new release, we’re featuring the new UST Mamiya All-In shaft as an upgraded offering for HB SOFT Milled. The All-In shaft features a 26% stiffer profile to help minimize shaft flex during the putting stroke for more consistency. Meanwhile, the proprietary nanotechnology strengthens the shaft for better feel and response, while delivering a 10% more consistent face angle at impact.

Choose from any of the 10 tour-proven shapes and sink more birdies with premium steel, precision milling, and score-dropping face technology with HB SOFT Milled.

Key Technologies:

Milled Putter Heads: First cast, then CNC Milled for precise weighting and crisp lines. It’s smarter milling that reduces waste for an attainable cost.

Speed Optimized Face Technology: Ensures consistent speed control and distance performance by normalizing ball speed across the face of the putter, now with a more responsive feel.

Stroke-Fit Alignment and Grip: Each shape features a specific alignment scheme and grip designed to fit the stroke of that putter.

Retail Information and Pricing

Pricing: $199.99 (Standard), $249.99 (UST Mamiya All-In Shaft)

U.S. Retail Launch Date: November 18, 2022

Friday, November 4, 2022

Traveling Golfer TV Show Provides Special Look Inside the Gates of Exclusive Ft. Lauderdale CC


(PHILADELPHIA, Pa.) – The private country clubs of America provide the rock-solid foundation for the development of golf, as well as giving us much of the game’s history. These two components are among the most important ingredients for the growth of the game.

Nowhere is this more evident than at Ft. Lauderdale Country Club, the private club that was founded in 1924 and has served as a cornerstone of golf in Southeast Florida.

With 36 holes of championship golf, an enormous clubhouse that caters to every need of its extremely active and engaged membership, and a tradition of involvement with the surrounding community, Ft. Lauderdale CC stands as model for the American private country club.

For all of those reasons, Ft. Lauderdale CC is the subject of the November episode of the award-winning Traveling Golfer television show.

“We are very fortunate to be in the midst of an amazing upswing,” says Michael Cofer, Ft. Lauderdale Country Club’s general manager. “It seems like everyone is trying to move to South Florida and Ft. Lauderdale is no exception. With two equally great courses, we can accommodate a lot of members and their guests. The best part is that the membership never stops trying to improve and refine our golf product.”

The North Course, the newer of the two layouts at Ft. Lauderdale CC, was totally renovated in 2020. The result is a modern layout that plays firm and fast, as well as providing a sustainable maintenance situation for the course superintendent. The historic South Course has undergone some tweaking over the years but is scheduled for a full renovation in the near future. However, former club president and longtime member Tommy Williams vows, “We would like to re-do the South Course but without changing the layout or its historic style.”

To say that the two courses – built on the same piece of property – present totally different challenges is an understatement.

“I have been fortunate to play Ft. Lauderdale Country Club a number of times over the years,” says Traveling Golfer Host Tony Leodora. “Both courses are so entertaining. The one thing they have in common is that both are always in incredible condition. This is definitely a private club where, when visiting, you put on your finest golf outfit, polish your clubs and try to put your best foot forward.”

In addition, Ft. Lauderdale CC places its visitors, its snowbird members and its full-timers in the middle of all of the local action. The beaches, outstanding restaurants and shops of Ft. Lauderdale are only minutes away, as well as the Hard Rock Casino.

The November episode of the Traveling Golfer airs as a scheduled weekly feature show on NBC Sports and NBC Sports + throughout three markets in the Mid-Atlantic regions. NBC Sports airings are 10:30 a.m. on Sundays, 10 p.m. on Tuesdays and 11 a.m. on Thursdays. NBC Sports + airs the show at 8 p.m. Mondays and Fridays. In addition, the show airs nationally, two times every day, on the Fun Roads Network (funroads.tv/schedule) – in the San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Wichita, Detroit, Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, Washington State, North Dakota, Raleigh, Orlando, San Jose, Albany and Boise markets.

Additionally, national and international expansion has taken place via the new wingding™ Network, which reaches more than 275 million households. It is available on Roku (50 Million), Amazon Fire TV (55 Million), Apple TV (40 million), Chromecast (56 million) and iTunes (28 million). 

The Traveling Golfer also airs a number of times throughout the month on “Rivertalk” on HTC-4 in Myrtle Beach. 

The show also airs on the Traveling Golfer network of websites, including The Golf Director Network and The Myrtle Beach Golf Channel (see full list of sites on travelinggolfervideo.com).

As part of every Traveling Golfer show there is the feature, "Tech Talk", hosted by Tour Edge Golf experts, such as President Dave Glod. With years of experience as a club maker, Glod presents an inside look at the research and development of high-quality golf equipment.

Responding to golfers' never-ending demands to learn more about interesting golf courses and golf resorts across the country and around the world, well-traveled host Tony Leodora created the Traveling Golfer so he could take viewers on video trips to some of the most exciting golf locations. In each of the last eight years, the show has been honored by the International Network of Golf with one of its prestigious awards. In four of those years the Traveling Golfer was named the No. 1 Golf Television Show in America.

The Traveling Golfer is a series of monthly shows hosted by Leodora and his partner, Jeff Gilder. Both have many years of experience in televised golf. The featured destination stays on the website for one month, before being replaced by a new show. Alternate shows also air in a two-month rotation. All old shows are archived for continued viewing on the YouTube Network and on the home website, www.travelinggolfer.tv.

Cobra Golf Launches New Version of Its Popular T-RAIL Hybrid Irons with New H.O.T Face Technology


(Carlsbad, Calif.)
- Cobra Golf, a leader in golf club innovation, today released its third generation T-RAIL hybrid-iron combo set. The next evolution of T-RAIL is the latest COBRA product to debut H.O.T Face Technology that delivers next level ball speed and distance.  The new version continues to utilize a hollow, hybrid-iron shape with innovative Hollow Baffler Split Rail Technology, giving players an impressive combination of high launch, longer distance, and extreme forgiveness.

Aimed at players looking for immediate improvements to their game, the uniquely designed T-RAIL combines the best attributes of a hybrid and an iron into one incredibly easy-to-hit club, enabling players to enjoy better golf without having to change their swing.  The design features a hollow, hybrid-like shape with a flatter, iron-like face, creating the ultimate blend of high launch, distance, and forgiveness, without sacrificing accuracy.  The full set uses a hollow, wide sole design to help get the ball airborne with ease on all shots into the green. 

The latest innovation added to the T-RAIL product line is H.O.T Face Technology, an Artificial Intelligence design. The new face insert utilizes a variable face thickness pattern that is designed using AI and features multiple thickness areas that have been optimized to increase the Sweet Zone by 30%.  The result is faster ball speed across the entire face to reduce distance loss on off-center hits.  Additional improvements include thicker internal rib structures that were used to significantly improve both sound and feel at impact.

Each T-RAIL hybrid and hybrid-iron carries over its successful Hollow Baffler Split Rail Technology.  The Baffler Rails, paired with the wide sole design allows the club to glide effortlessly through any turf condition so golfers can launch the ball high and straight more consistently. The front portion of the rails is fully hollow, which creates up to 70% more flex on the sole right behind the face to further increase launch and distance.

To ensure the most forgiving set configuration, T-RAIL is designed as a combo set that includes a 4-hybrid in place of a 4 hybrid-iron (a 5-hybrid replaces the 5 hybrid-iron in the women’s set).  The T-RAIL hybrid has a lower and deeper CG than a hybrid-iron, which results in higher launch, and longer distance, making it a more forgiving alternative to a long iron.  In addition to making longer approach shots easier and more consistent, the T-RAIL 4-hybrid also improves gapping between the longer clubs in the set to prevent distance overlap.

The T-RAIL hybrid-iron combo set is available in men’s & women’s set make-ups.  The Men’s T-RAIL Graphite 7-piece Combo Set ($999), features a chrome finish with black and red color accents and comes with a 4-hybrid and 5-PW hybrid-irons, in both RH and LH options.  Each set is equipped with a COBRA ULTRALITE (50g) graphite shaft in Stiff and Reg or Lite flex (45g) and a COBRA Lamkin Crossline grip.  A COBRA ULTRALITE steel shaft is also available through custom only.  The Men’s T-RAIL Combo Set is also available with optional 5- and 6-hybrids as well as GW and SW through custom order (hybrids are not sold as separates).  The Women’s T-RAIL Graphite 7-piece Combo Set ($999), features a chrome finish with black and lilac color accents, and comes with a 5-hybrid and 6-PW and SW hybrid irons SW in RH and LH options.  Each set comes standard with a COBRA ULTRALITE 45g graphite (Ladies flex) shaft and a COBRA Lamkin Crossline grip. A 6-hybrid and GW are also available through custom order (hybrids are not sold as separates). Both the Men’s and Women’s T-RAIL sets will be available beginning November 4, 2022. 

For more information on the new T-RAIL Hybrid Irons and all of COBRA’s innovative products, visit www.cobragolf.com