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Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Unboxing The OG Beer (805) from Firestone Walker
SkyGolf Celebrates Dads with a Father’s Day Promotion Featuring the Award-Winning SX Series Rangefinders and the LX Series GPS Smart Watches
(RIDGELAND, MS) — SkyGolf, maker of SkyCaddie, the most-trusted rangefinders in golf, is offering a special Father’s Day Promotion of $50 off their award-winning rangefinders, including the SX400 and SX550 handheld models and the stylish LX5 and LX5 with ceramic bezel smart watches. The LX2 smart watch is $20 off the reduced price of $149.95. The promotion runs from June 5 – June 26, 2023.
“If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your dad this year, we’ve got you covered,” said Jacqui Surman, SkyGolf Senior VP and COO. “Your dad will love our powerful SkyCaddie rangefinders that will help improve his accuracy, and provide him with detailed, reliable information that will help him have more fun on the course.”
All SkyCaddie rangefinders and smart watches are preloaded with over 35,000 best-in-class courses and feature Wi-Fi connectivity to streamline application updates and getting the latest course updates without connecting to a computer.
The large HD displays of the SX rangefinders, combined with HD quality course graphics, only available from SkyCaddie, provide the best view of the most-reliable information in the game to allow you to play your best golf. Unlike other rangefinders, which rely on satellite imagery that is often outdated and unreliable, only SkyCaddie walks the course to capture accurate and verifiable data to provide you with distances you can trust.
The SX550 and SX400 rangefinders include a host of patented technology and stroke-saving features developed by SkyCaddie to help its customers make better decisions on the golf course such as the new Dynamic HoleVue with IntelliPath Technology that provides the distance to target as well as every other relevant attribute of the course, along and beyond your target line, without aiming a laser.
So, now without wasting time to make multiple measurements, such as with a laser, you get distances instantly to all intervening hazards, end of fairways and other shot saving information in an instant to allow you to play like a pro and make the right club selection.
SkyCaddie’s new and patented Dynamic HoleVue feature rotates the fairway and orients the green from your current position and angle of attack as you move from the tee to the green. Now, you see everything between you and the green instantly without touching a button and get the distances you need to avoid hazards and play your best golf. So, in addition to SkyCaddie’s patented IntelliGreen technology, golfers can now see the entire hole from their point of view.
With SkyCaddie’s patented IntelliGreen technology, the exact shape of the green automatically rotates to match your angle of approach to provide all of the distances you need to hit more greens and avoid 3-putts. This proprietary feature gives you a chance to turn every shot into a scoring opportunity by providing front carry and back distances, depth of green, and distances to any other point on the green — simultaneously.
SkyCaddie PinPoint technology will obsolete lasers by providing the ability to get distances to the pin while getting all the benefits of IntelliGreen. Simply enter pin sheet or zone information into the SkyCaddie SX550 or SX400 to get distances to the hole, front, center and back PLUS the depth and true shape green... AND all of this information is on one screen that changes automatically based on your current position and angle of approach from anywhere on the course…whether you can see the flag or not. With the SX Series, you get more information, from more places, easier and faster and without aiming!
A new Shot Tracking feature allows you to track each shot you play, which clubs you used, how far you hit them, and where you hit them from. In addition, an array of automated features such as Auto-Course Selection, Auto-Hole Advance and Auto-Zoom, make the SX rangefinders basically "touch-free" from the parking lot to the 19th hole.
More features include: IntelliGreen Pro that adds the ability to display major tiers, contours, false fronts, and mounds from your angle of approach to the green on selective courses; Shot Distance Measurement to help track how far the ball goes and help golfers to learn club distances; Target List View to give a quick list of all the targets ahead of on the hole; digital scoring options for Stroke and Stableford with handicapping; and Tee Box Selection, Gender Selection, Dual Green Support with a yards or meters option, Stat Tracking and a North Indicator.
Using the same next generation technology found in the SX family of rangefinders, the SkyCaddie LX2, LX5 and LX5C GPS smart watches include most of the dynamic features that golfers rave about in the SX550 and SX400 handhelds, giving golfers the most accurate information conveniently located on their wrist.
Simple wireless connectivity allows for the collection and storage of critical performance data in the SkyGolf 360 Cloud Service, making it available instantly to the user, instructors, or friends.
The promotional period for the SkyCaddie spring discount runs from June 5 through June 26, 2023, and is subject to availability. The discount is only available on new SkyCaddie products, not pre-owned, open box or refurbished products. The offer is open only to U.S. residents and U.S. shipping addresses.
You can find these top rated SkyCaddie models at all leading golf retailers including Edwin Watts, Roger Dunne, PGA Super Store and authorized online retailers such as Play Better Golf. SkyGolf also offers Military/ First Responder and Teachers discounts direct by visiting verifypass.com/offers/website/www.skygolf.com.
For more information, visit www.skygolf.com.
Who is Responsible if a Golf Ball Hits a Passing Car?
In a situation where a golf ball hits a passing car, determining liability would depend on various factors, such as the circumstances surrounding the incident, applicable laws, and local regulations.
We entered a question into ChatGPT and this was the result. How accurate do you feel the answer is?
While stating that ChatGPT is not a lawyer, the artificial intelligence platform provided some general information on the topic. In a situation where a golf ball hits a passing car, determining liability would depend on various factors, such as the circumstances surrounding the incident, applicable laws, and local regulations. Liability could potentially be attributed to different parties involved, including the golfer, the golf course, or even the car owner.
Typically, golf courses have certain safety measures in place to minimize the risk of injury or damage caused by errant golf shots. If the golf course has taken reasonable precautions, such as warning signs, nets, or barriers to prevent golf balls from leaving the course, they may not be held liable. However, if the golf course has not implemented adequate safety measures or failed to enforce them, they could potentially be held partially or fully liable.
The golfer might also be held responsible if they were negligent in their actions. For instance, if they intentionally hit the ball in a reckless manner or failed to take precautions to avoid hitting passing vehicles, they may be held liable for any resulting damages.
The car owner may also have some responsibility depending on the circumstances. If the car owner was driving recklessly or in an area where they were not supposed to be, such as on the golf course itself, their actions might affect the liability determination.
It is important to note that liability laws can vary depending on the jurisdiction, and specific legal advice should be sought to understand the applicable laws in a particular situation. Consulting with a lawyer would be the best course of action if you are involved in a similar incident and seeking legal guidance.
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
SuperStroke Congratulates Emiliano Grillo on Playoff Victory at The Charles Schwab Challenge
Two-time winner uses Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip to outlast tight leaderboard.
(Wixom, MI) – SuperStroke, the No. 1 Putter Grip in golf and the leader in innovative Tour-proven golf grip technology, congratulates 30-year-old Argentina native Emiliano Grillo on his second-career victory at The Charles Schwab Challenge. Grillo secured a two-year playing exemption on the Tour courtesy of his two-hole sudden-death playoff win. He closed with a gutsy final-round 68, overcoming a double bogey on the 72nd hole to earn a spot in the two-man playoff. He then drained a tournament-clinching birdie on the second playoff hole to capture his first victory since his triumph at the 2015 Frys.com Open.
Grillo, who earned his spot in the 2024 Sentry Tournament of Champions, The Masters and Players Championship with this victory, used a SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip to close out the win and collect the $1.566 million winner’s check.
“The entire SuperStroke team congratulates Emiliano Grillo on capturing his first-career victory in dramatic fashion with his SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip,” says SuperStroke CEO Dean Dingman. “Emiliano putted brilliantly all week, gaining 7.439 strokes on the field with his putting over all four rounds and ranking second in Strokes Gained Putting. What a performance!”
Grillo finished eight-under-par over four rounds on the difficult Colonial Country Club layout, holding off the likes of world No. 1 golfer and the player who led the tournament after each of the first three rounds, to reach the playoff.
The SuperStroke Flatso putter grip features a distinct pentagonal “Flatso” profile: a wide, flat front grip shape with five pronounced edges. Now with Enhanced Spyne™ Technology and Multi-Zone Texturing, the Flatso™ Series has been refined to offer even better feel and feedback.
Available in wide array of colorways, the SuperStroke Flatso™ putter grip is one of the most popular grips played on professional tours. PGA TOUR professional Jordan Spieth trusted the Flatso grip for each of his three major championship victories.
As part of Zenergy, SuperStroke’s latest line of putter grips featuring enhanced Spyne technology, the Zenergy Flatso putter grip features new multi-zone texturing, and our patented no-taper shape for unmatched confidence to quiet your hands – and your mind.
Features Include:
Enhanced Spyne Technology – The new Spyne Technology has an improved, embossed ridge along the underside of the grip, engineered to make it easier to square the face at impact.
New Multi-Zone Texturing – Strategically placed textured in high-sensory areas designed to optimize feedback and comfort from the incredibly soft polyurethane outer layer.
Tech-Port – Located at the top of SuperStroke grips, Tech-Port allows golfers to easily add game-improvement options including the patented CounterCore weight system and performance tracking sensors.
SuperStroke grips are trusted by legions of top professional golfers. In 2022, SuperStroke users won 61 tournaments on golf’s major professional tours, totaling more than $58.5 million in first-place prize money in those events.
SuperStroke’s putter grip line is a product of relentless innovation, fueled by feedback from more than 450 tour pros. From signature shapes and sizes to the cutting-edge materials, SuperStroke delivers unprecedented features into every putter grip while connecting golfer and putter like no other product on the market.
For more details on SuperStroke’s range of innovative golf grips and to keep up with the latest news from the company, visit https://superstrokeusa.com/.
Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass Returns for 12th Year June 23-25
(HARRIS, MICHIGAN) – The exuberant energy of women’s professional golf will be returning to the Upper Peninsula June 23-25 for the 12th year of the Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass. As a part of the Epson Tour “Road to the LPGA,” 144 professional women golfers will once again descend upon the Island Resort & Casino to play Sweetgrass (2022 National Golf Course of the Year) and competing for prize money totaling $225,000.
“If you’ve never witnessed a pro golf tournament, the Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass is a great, inexpensive, family-friendly place to see one,” said Tony Mancilla, General Manager of Island Resort & Casino and Tournament Director. “And the Epson Tour golf play is excellent,” Mancilla added. “These athletes are working their way to an LPGA card, and the average score is just a stroke or two below the LPGA average. In some cases, the golfer may play on both the Epson tour and the LPGA.”
The winner of the Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass will take home a trophy, a tribal honor quilt handmade by an elder of the Hannahville Indian Community, and a check for $33,750. The winner will also be eligible for a share of the Potawatomi Cup - an additional $30,000 in cash prizes awarded to Epson players based on performance at the three Potawatomi Nation casino sponsored events—which includes the Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass.At the end of the 22-tournament season, the top ten money winners on the Epson Tour earn an automatic exemption onto the 2024 LPGA Tour. Mancilla noted that most of the Island Resort Championship winners have gone on to earn their LPGA card.
Fans are encouraged to bring a chair or utilize the bleachers by the nine and eighteen greens, as well as at the center of the course. They are also welcome to follow golfers as they play their rounds and can get autographs and photos taken with golfers at the end of their rounds. Food and beverages are available on the course, and everything is $2.
Tickets to the June tournament are $10 (kids are free) and are available at the gate or by calling 877-ISL-SHOW. For more information, visit www.IslandResortGolf.com.
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Swing Control Introduces Its Spring Capsule Collection for Men
Swing Control adds new pants and shorts to expand their men’s product line-up
(MONTRĖAL, CA) – Swing Control, manufacturers of the performance-based golf and lifestyle apparel brand, is proud to announce that the company has expanded its men’s collection for Spring 2023. The new men’s line is designed for golfers who want the look of tailored pants or shorts but with the comfortability of athletic wear.
“To keep things stylishly and on par with our women’s collection, we’ve launched, Swing for men, for spring,” said Swing Control Brand Manager Josh Mark. “The new collection of men’s bottoms delivers comfort and style. Our designers used stretchy performance-based fabrics that look good and feel even better. They are the perfect gift for Father’s Day.”
In addition to using top-quality technical fabrics with just the right amount of stretch and breathability, the men’s pants and shorts feature a five-pocket design with two in the front and three in the back. An elastic interior waistband provides comfort and the optimal range of motion for top game performance. A gel gripper binding keeps all tops neatly tucked in.
Cloud Golf Short is a classic piece with a timeless, performance-oriented aesthetic. The fabric is ultra-light and supremely comfortable, made with soft flexible fibers for maximum freedom of movement. A gripper gel waistband keeps a shirt in place, and a practical 5-pocket design offers plenty of space. Belt loops and a top button-fly inject a tailored sophistication. Perfect for warmer weather. Colors include Black, Mist, Navy, and Stone. MSRP $115.
Cloud Straight Leg Golf Pant provides comfort off and on the course with its midweight luxuriously soft stretch fabric that moves with the body. The 5-pocket design gives ample room to store golf gadgets, and the gripper gel interior waistband ensures a shirt stays in place, swing after swing. Belt loops and a classic top button-fly add a crip polish. Colors include Black, Mist, Navy, and Stone. MSRP $125.
Gingham Techno Golf Short is a classic addition to any golfer’s wardrobe. It’s made with a refined Techno stretch fabric and cut with a straight leg for maximum mobility. A comfortable elastic waistband with a hidden gripper gel ensures shirt stays put. For added practicality, the 5-pocket design offers ample storage space, complete with belt loops and a faux button-fly for a polished, tailored look and perfectly on-trend. Colors include Blue/White Gingham, Black/White Gingham, and Tan/White Gingham. MSRP $80.50
Striped Techno Golf Short features an iconic low-key look, with a timeless vibe and an endless versatility that works just as well on the street as it does on the fairway. Casually cool, this piece is a perfect blend of style and function, made with a crisp Techno stretch fabric for optimal range of motion and top game performance. The classic straight leg provides ultimate all-day comfort, complete with an inner grip gel to keep a shirt in place through each round. Belt loops and a faux button-fly inject a dose of tailored polish, with five practical pockets to hold tees and scorecard. Colors include Blue/White Ticking Stripe, and Black/White Ticking Stripe. MSRP $80.50.
Techno Golf Short is a classic piece that will stand the test of time, it’s made with a flexible-yet-refined techno fabric for maximum freedom of movement and top game performance. Featuring a gripper gel waistband to ensure a shirt stays in place, with a straight-leg silhouette that can be dressed up or down with ease. A 5-pocket design offers plenty of space, and is complete with belt loops, and a classic button-fly for a tailored aesthetic that looks just as crisp and cool off the green as it does on. Colors include Colors: Black, Navy, Stone, Dobby black, Dobby Grey, White. MSRP $80.50.
Ponte Straight Leg Golf Pant is designed for optimal game performance, this classic style has a sporty sophistication that works well both on and off the green. Made with a refined Ponte stretch fabric that moves as you do for uninhibited range of motion, it’s cut with a straight leg for a comfortable, relaxed fit and timeless wearability. A practical gel gripper binding and stretch waistband helps keep a shirt tucked in, with a classic 5-pocket design to stash all your stuff. This versatile piece has a polished edge that will be on heavy trouser rotation for years to come. Ideal for cooler days. Colors include Black, Navy, and Dark Charcoal. MSRP $96.60.
“The entire men’s collection travels well, is comfortable, so comfortable, I call them my constructed sweatpants,” added Mark. k.
For more information, visit the Swing Control website at www.swingcontrol.com.
A.I. Names the Five Best Golfers of All Time. Do You Agree?
According to ChatGPT, "Determining the five best golfers of all time is subjective, as opinions may vary based on personal preferences and criteria. However, here are five golfers who are often considered among the greatest of all time:
5. Gary Player: Gary Player, hailing from South Africa, is one of the most successful international golfers of all time. He captured nine major championships, including three Masters titles, three British Opens, and two PGA Championships. Player's incredible fitness, work ethic, and global impact on the sport have solidified his place among the golfing greats.
4. Arnold Palmer: Arnold Palmer, known as "The King," was one of the most charismatic and influential figures in golf. He won seven major championships, including four Masters titles, two British Opens, and one U.S. Open. Palmer's swashbuckling style, combined with his immense popularity, helped popularize golf and bring it to a wider audience.
3. Ben Hogan: Ben Hogan is renowned for his remarkable ball-striking and legendary work ethic. Despite a car accident that nearly ended his career, Hogan won nine major championships, including four U.S. Opens, two Masters titles, and one British Open. His precision and dedication to the game have inspired generations of golfers.
2. Tiger Woods: Tiger Woods is one of the most successful and influential golfers in history. He has won 15 major championships, including four Masters titles, three U.S. Opens, three British Opens, and four PGA Championships. Woods revolutionized the game with his exceptional talent, athleticism, and mental toughness.
1. Jack Nicklaus: Jack Nicklaus, nicknamed "The Golden Bear," is widely regarded as the greatest golfer in history. He won a record 18 major championships, including six Masters titles, five PGA Championships, four U.S. Opens, and three British Opens. Nicklaus dominated the sport throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
"It's important to note that several other golfers, such as Sam Snead, Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen, and more recently, players like Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy, have also made significant contributions to the sport and could be considered among the best depending on individual perspectives," ChatGPT wrote.
For what it's worth, Tiger is on top of my list. What do you think?
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, True Blue Golf Club Unveil Leading Fall Golf Package
(Pawleys Island, S.C.) – Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Golf Club, two of America’s top 100 resort courses, have unveiled their always anticipated Golftoberfest package, an offer that provides traveling players with maximum value during the Myrtle Beach area’s peak fall season.
The package, which runs from October 1-31, is a three-night, four-round deal that allows golfers to play the pair of Mike Strantz designs in any combination they choose. Award-winning golf is complemented by villa accommodations that include 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom units at True Blue Resort.
Groups that book early and travel Sunday through Wednesday, when ample tee times remain available, will relish the opportunity to play a pair of bucket list courses at a value price.
Golfers from across the nation flock to Pawleys Island to enjoy Strantz’ genius. Caledonia was the late architect’s first solo design, putting the man known as “The Maverick” on the fast track to stardom.
Caledonia, which plays through majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, is ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses by Golf Digest and it doesn’t take players long to discover why. The course is impeccably conditioned and the Lowcountry scenery is unforgettable, but most importantly, the layout is a treat to play.
A round at Caledonia reaches a crescendo on the par 4 18th, widely regarded as one of golf’s premier closing holes. The tee shot on the dogleg right demands accuracy as golfers look for the ideal angle for an approach that requires a carry over water to a green residing in the shadow of the clubhouse. It’s an unforgettable finish.
Located less than a mile away, True Blue offers a contrasting yet equally enjoyable experience. The fairways are among the area’s widest and often framed by sprawling waste bunkers that bring a native look to the layout.
Equally appealing are the course’s greens complexes, which are among the area’s largest, allowing for a range of setup options few layouts in golf-rich South Carolina could hope to match. With five par 5s and five par 3s, the challenges at True Blue are varied throughout a memorable round.
Even more impressive than the acclaim both courses have received from golf’s major magazines are the kudos they’ve earned from the game’s most important constituency, traveling players.
“Hands down our favorite course in Myrtle,” gushed one 5-star Google reviewer about Caledonia. “Staff is always very kind and the course is always in fantastic shape. The clubhouse is great and that back patio gives the perfect view of one of the best finishing holes you’ll find. Great time with our group of 16.”
Caledonia and True Blue are two of America’s premier public courses and the Golftoberfest offer allows players to maximize the good times the Mike Strantz gems deliver.
For more information or to book a tee time, visit CaledoniaGolfandFishClub.com or TrueBlueGolf.com.
Wednesday, May 24, 2023
TRUE linkswear Launches New ‘Tour Collection’ for Prime Golf Season
Featuring Five New Items Bringing Tour-Level Quality to Golfers’ Feet and Wardrobes
(TACOMA, Wash.) – Peak golf season is here, and TRUE linkswear (TRUE) is launching the new “Tour Collection” featuring the highly-anticipated LUX Tour and OG Tour golf shoes, the premium LUX Tour Polo Tour Logo Edition and midweight Quarter Zip Tour Logo Edition, and the breathable LUX Tech Tour 5-Panel Hat, providing golfers with high-performance, stylish options for the golf season.
“The Tour Collection was tailored around the needs of our Tour staff,” says TRUE CEO Jason Moore. “Through feedback from players like Joel Dahmen, Mark Hubbard and Chris Kirk we’ve been able to continue to elevate the premium nature of our footwear and apparel via countless upgrades and aesthetic improvements. The Tour Collection is our take on the fit, performance and style of a modern Tour player.”
The Tour Collection lineup:
LUX Tour
The LUX Tour is TRUE’s take on the modern performance golf shoe designed to the rigorous standards of its PGA TOUR staff, including co-founder Ryan Moore, Joel Dahmen and Chris Kirk. Building on the legacy of the LUX Pro, it boasts subtle-yet-significant improvements to style, quality, fit and function. LUX Tour includes the Achilles heel pad and TPU heel stabilizer for a more stable fit and features the all-new TRUE® Tour Signature Top Grain Napa Leather. Comfortable enough for TRUE’s Tour players to wear right out of the box, updates to the WANDERLUX® midsole compound and insert give it the best feel, grip and lateral stability to date. The upgraded metal logo and exotic genuine leather accents elevate LUX Tour’s luxury aesthetic.
OG Tour
The OG Tour combines the iconic TRUE Original with all-new premium construction built to the rigorous performance standards of TRUE’s PGA TOUR staff. Building on the TRUE Original legacy, the OG Tour delivers a distinctive minimalist fit, wide toe box and zero drop experience. Naturally enhancing comfort and engineered for walking, it generates more surface contact than any golf shoe, keeping golfers connected to the earth with ideal balance and traction. A flexible, ergonomically designed sole eliminates all inhibitions between golfers and the turf. Now featuring TRUE’s all-new TRUE® Tour Signature Top Grain Napa Leather, the OG Tour offers an upgraded metal logo and exotic genuine leather accents to elevate the luxury aesthetic.
LUX Tour Polo
With its minimalist design and maximum comfort, the LUX Tour Polo is created via Super Natural Materials offering unrivaled performance and a modern aesthetic transcending seamlessly to the golf course. The athletic modern cut is perfect on or off the links as the polo drapes naturally for a casual-yet-tailored fit. The ultra-premium LUX Tour Polo blend features a sustainable mix of industry-leading Tencel® (45%), REPREVE® Recycled Polyester (50%) and Spandex (5%) for maximum comfort and movement. It also includes TRUE’s high visibility logo on the front left chest along with the fan-favorite Dead Golfer on the left sleeve.
LUX Tour Quarter Zip
The LUX Tour Quarter Zip is the optimal mid-weight layering piece for the active and competitive golfer, built using Super Natural Materials delivering unreal performance, a premium look and feel, and next-level sustainability. This Quarter Zip is the perfect “all-season” weight to keep golfers feeling good during their pursuits on and off the course. The premium French-terry blend features a sustainable mix of industry-leading Tencel® (43%), Recycled Polyester (50%) and Spandex (7%) for maximum comfort and movement. It includes TRUE’s high visibility logo on the front left chest along with the Dead Golfer on the left sleeve.
LUX Tech Tour 5-Panel Hat
TRUE’s premium performance “take” on the 5-panel hat, the LUX Tech Tour 5-Panel Hat sports a brushed, broken-in coastal feel with a modern design and “stealth” detailing. The breathable foam front, laser perforated back, athletic sweatband and moisture-wicking shell will keep golfers cool and dry. Featuring TRUE’s new Tour tone-on-tone logo vinyl application on the front along with an embroidered Tour design underneath, TRUE fans can rock the hat the TRUE pros are wearing this season.
For more information on the Tour Collection and other TRUE products, visit www.truelinkswear.com.
Golf Inc. Magazine Judges Bestow “Development of the Year” Honor on Apes Hill Barbados
Distinction Complements Rave Reviews for Newly Opened Course at Luxury Resort Residential Community
(Apes Hill Barbados) – A panel of judges for Golf Inc., the international trade publication that provides owners and operators with industry trends, insights, and best practices, has voted Apes Hill Barbados runner-up in its annual Development of the Year competition.
The best-in-kind award “recognizes the finest private clubs and daily fee/resort courses with the best new traditional and non-traditional golf courses (including short courses) that opened during the past year around the globe.”
Winners were judged according to how well the vision of the project was executed, the course aesthetics, economic and environmental sustainability, course routing and land usage. The judges were Darryl Bartlett, senior project manager at NMP Golf Construction Corp.; Casey Paulson, project president at Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club; Kevin Norby of Norby Golf Course Design; Mike Nuzzo of Nuzzo Course Design; and Tripp Davis, president of Tripp Davis and Associates.
Stated the three Development of the Year judges about Apes Hill Barbados in their appraisal:
“A wonderfully conceived and executed vision with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Shaping of fairways, bunkers and green complexes are dramatic and unique.” – Kevin Norby
“Spectacular! Beautiful modern buildings, great golf, all in a luxury setting, this place has it going on!” – Darryl Bartlett
“Beautiful views in a tropical environment; impressive commitment to environmental sustainability.” – Casey Paulson
That the judges cited Apes Hill Barbados’ inspired vision and successful execution, commitment to environmental and sustainability best practices, and the scintillating golf course designed by Ron Kirby in this breath-taking setting is precisely what Apes Hill Barbados set out to accomplish.
Apes Hill Barbados is owned by Apes Hill (Barbados) Inc., a Barbadian company whose primary shareholder is Glenn J. Chamandy, a Canadian investor, founder, and CEO of leading clothing brand Gildan Activewear. Chamandy purchased the property in 2019 and embarked on an ambitious project to redefine golfing and estate living on the Caribbean Island.
“The Development of the Year honor is deeply appreciated because the judges touched on the essence of what is Apes Hill Barbados in their comments,” said Sunil Chatrani, Executive Chairman, Apes Hill Barbados. “We’ve taken great care to build a course and comprehensive golf experience that complements our first-class community. This is a place where people embrace the important things in life: family, friendships, health, and connection to nature.”
In addition to the Ron Kirby designed, 18-hole championship golf course, Apes Hill Barbados offers exceptional, complementary golf amenities including the short course, 19th hole, sleek clubhouse, and state-of-the-art Golf Performance Centre.
Apes Hill Barbados is a 475-acre property of incredible elegance located in the Parish of Saint James on the west coast of the culturally vibrant and historically rich Barbados. The island is famed for its history, beauty, designer shops and world class restaurants. It also boasts some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, with Apes Hill rating No. 5 in the Caribbean, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Atlantic Islands (Source: Golfweek’s “Best You Can Play”).
Sustainability is at the forefront of the resort’s long-term DNA – designed to make it the most environmentally responsible golf course and development in the Caribbean. Underscoring this mandate is Apes Hill Barbados’ work with Audubon International, the non-profit organization that helps places employ environmental best practices and protect the areas where people live, work, and play.
Golf fairways and tees have been re-laid using the more drought tolerant Zoysia Zorro grass and the greens with TifEagle. The resistance of these grasses to insects also further reduces the reliance on fertilization and use of pesticides, with a view to Apes Hill Barbados eventually becoming chemical-free.
Apes Hill Barbados has a uniquely tranquil atmosphere that provides the perfect setting for inspired living at a pace of ease. Home to a developing range of accommodation options, the elegant venue is home to a portfolio of stunning real estate on site alongside golf vacation properties set to allow guests to stay and play late this year or early next. There are several exquisitely designed residential options that offer something for everyone’s taste – from charming villas to brilliantly designed detached homes.
Amenities at Apes Hill Barbados will include a wellness centre, several kilometers of enchanting nature trails, flood-lit Padel courts, TigerTurf tennis courts, spa, dining, and bespoke outdoor and well-being activities as well as a dedicated concierge service, among other top-class amenities. Apes Hill Barbados’ golfing credentials are just as impressive – the 18-hole championship golf course that opened for play in November 2022, and the cutting-edge Golf Performance Centre debuted in January 2023.
For more information: www.apeshill.com
GolfForever Honors the Military with Promotion Benefiting Folds of Honor and Veteran Golfers Association
Industry-leading golf fitness brand donating a portion of sales between Armed Forces Day and Labor Day.
(Aspen, CO) – GolfForever, the leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, is kicking off an expanded focus on honoring our nation’s armed services personnel and their families with a limited-time sales promotion on the popular GolfForever Swing Trainer. From Armed Forces Day (May 20, 2023) through Memorial Day (May 29, 2023), $10 from every Swing Trainer sold on GolfForever.com will be donated to Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA). Those proceeds will be shared equally between the two organizations. All purchasers will also receive a free 30-day subscription to the 4.8 App Store-rated GolfForever golf fitness training app.
The influential and impactful Folds of Honor foundation is the renowned nonprofit organization founded by Lt Col Dan Rooney 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 also expanded its mission to include first responders. VGA, founded in 2014 by retired Army Capt. Joshua Peyton, is an acclaimed national organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Veterans and their family members through the camaraderie and sportsmanship of golf. GolfForever forged partnerships with both organizations in 2022 and this sales promotion marks the first of many strategic and promotional efforts the golf fitness brand will activate in 2023.
“We greatly value our relationships with Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association and we are constantly looking for ways to support their efforts and honor their members. This initial promotion is one of many initiatives our GolfForever team will use to bring awareness to these vital organizations,” says GolfForever VP of Communications and Strategic Partnerships, Jon Levy. “It has been a pleasure to work closely with both groups, and we are honored to play a small role in championing their advocacy for the military and their families.”
GolfForever is the first golf-specific training program to embrace the approach of home exercise equipment paired with streaming instruction that customizes each golfer’s exercise routines specifically for them, based on a proprietary strength and flexibility test. The GolfForever Swing Trainer, highlighted by its asymmetrical resistance training bar that can be anchored easily at home, the gym or the course, is a three-in-one training tool that additionally creates premium resistance bands with handles and a D3 swing weight-optimized heavy warmup club. All three uses, combined with guided instruction from fitness and medical experts that specialize in golf, directly benefit the strength, mobility and movement patterns in your golf swing.
GolfForever has experienced massive growth since releasing its marquee physical product now used by over 200 tour pros, including bringing on 2021-22 PGA Tour Player of the Year and World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler – a daily GolfForever user – as well as 2023 Ryder Cup Captain Zach Johnson and four-time PGA Tour winner Ryan Palmer, launching a pilot program with Invited, and landing in leading golf retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy and PGA Tour Superstore.
Retailing for $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.
For more information and to support Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association with the purchase of a GolfForever Swing Trainer, visit GolfForever.com.
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
Unboxing the Golf Breeze Cordless Stick Blower (with DEMO)
Monday, May 22, 2023
Brooks Koepka Wins 2023 PGA Championship
(HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.) – Brooks Koepka is the 2023 PGA Championship winner, earning his fifth major championship on Sunday at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. This is his third Wanamaker trophy and first major title since 2019. Koepka has 11 Srixon/Cleveland Golf clubs in his bag and plays the Z-STAR DIAMOND golf ball.
It was a dominant performance from the now five-time major champion as he rose to the top and fended off the field at the demanding Oak Hill. After an opening round 2-over par 72, Koepka followed up with a second, and third-round 66, despite tough conditions. He carded a final round 3-under par 67 to win the tournament by two strokes. Koepka becomes only the third player in the stroke play era to have won three or more PGA Championships.
“This is incredible. I look back at where we were two years ago, I’m just so happy right now, I’m at a loss for words,” Brooks Koepka said in his post round interview. “I don’t have a list of guys who’ve won five times, but to be with those groups of names is absolutely incredible, and something I couldn’t dream of as a kid, this is the coolest thing.”
Koepka ranked second in SG: Tee to Green and first overall in SG: Total using majority of Srixon and Cleveland Golf products. Koepka signed with Srixon/Cleveland Golf in 2021.
Here is a full look at Koepka’s Srixon/Cleveland Golf gear:
Srixon ZX5 LS Mk II 10.5° Driver
Srixon ZX7 Mk II Irons (4i-9i)
Cleveland Golf RTX ZipCore 46°
Cleveland Golf RTX 6 ZipCore Tour Rack (52°, 56°, 60° LB)
Srixon Z-STAR DIAMOND golf ball
To learn more about the product Koepka used at Oak Hill, visit us.dunlopsports.com/srixon
Thursday, May 18, 2023
Blue Tees Golf Partners with MST Golf to Expand Distribution in the Southeast Asia Market
MST Golf will introduce the Blue Tees Golf brand in their world-class retail stores
(SAN FRANCISCO, CA) – Blue Tees Golf, a rapidly growing producer of golf technology products and accessories, has entered into an agreement with the leading golf retailer and golf services provider in Southeast Asia (SEA) – MST Golf. The partnership will establish the Blue Tees Golf brand and its innovative products in Singapore and Malaysia.
MST Golf has over 30-years of experience in the golf retail space and has established itself as a leading golf retail and service provider in SEA. Their vision to elevate the shopping experience has been recognized. MST Golf was one of the recipients to receive Malaysia’s most prestigious business award, the 2022 Sin Chew Business Excellence Award – Retail Excellence Award. Their vision to redefine the shopping experience and “serve the best in everything” has firmly established the company as the largest golf retailer in the region.“We are excited to work with Blue Tees Golf and having their innovative products available in the SEA market,” said Tan Chai, Senior Manager – Marketing MST Golf Group. “We know that Blue Tees Golf will attract a new generation of golfers that are seeking cool, and stylish products that do not compromise on technology. And they offer more than rangefinders, their speakers and golf accessories will help to tell the brand story. It is time to ‘Play Different with Blue Tees Golf and MST Golf’.”
“We are incredibly excited about this new partnership. MST Golf provides Blue Tees Golf the best opportunity to expand the brand in Singapore and Malaysia,” said Drew Koehler, Co-Founder and Head of Business Development of Blue Tees Golf. “Their ever-growing retail footprint includes elevated store concepts, golf arenas, golf academies, golf labs, golf tech shops, corporate golf merchandise and event management, it’s unbelievable and Blue Tees Golf is now a vendor-partner with this world-class organization.”
For more information: www.blueteesgolf.com / Instagram: @blueteesgolf
Inside Nemacolin’s Elevated Golf in a Vacationer’s Paradise
Director of Golf Operations Chris Anderson offers a primer on golf season in Pennsylvania’s majestic Laurel Highlands.
Chris Anderson is no stranger to the wonderous Allegheny Mountains resort property known as Nemacolin. In fact, he’s been intimately familiar with each of the resort’s Pete Dye designs there since he joined the staff five years ago as the director of turfgrass, moving from The Greenbrier in West Virginia. In January, he was elevated to the director of golf operations and shares a distinct excitement for the 2023 peak golfing season at Nemacolin.
While Anderson arrived a year after Nemacolin opened its Shepherd’s Rock course, he’s seen plenty in his time. Two years ago, updates were made to Mystic Rock’s bunkers, playing surfaces and tee boxes with Pete Dye associate Tim Liddy on hand for the project. Last year, the resort celebrated its 35th anniversary and earned 22 Forbes Stars for the third consecutive year and with renovations to the property’s storied The Grand Lodge set be unveiled this fall, the future for this larger-than-life destination looks particularly bright.
With such anticipation for another terrific summer in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Anderson opened up about what his ideal golf trip would look like here, some of his favorite holes and what he tells his peers about what it’s like working at the 2,000-acre beauty.
When you talk to your friends in the golf industry, how do you describe to them the uniqueness of Nemacolin as a golf vacation destination?
I would describe it as a big property with more activities than you can accomplish in one stay. There are so many different things you can do on property, from golf, obviously, to the swimming pools, to jeeps, to rock climbing walls, paintball, and horseback riding. The variety of different things our guests can do from here is one of the things that attracts a lot of people.
Nemacolin is home to two Pete Dye courses, and some may assume that each course is exceptionally challenging. But playing from the proper set of tees makes the experience immensely enjoyable. How do you help set expectations for playing both Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock?
Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock to me are so different in the design concepts, you can see how Pete Dye designed courses in the 90s and how he was designing courses as his career was winding down. We basically offer two different time frames in his career. Mystic Rock (which opened in 1995) is a tighter, narrowed-fairway course with subtle greens. A little more shot-making and angles come into play there. We have tees for everybody. The bunkering on Mystic is a lot different than Shepherd’s as well – they’re a lot grander in size.
Shepherd’s (which opened in 2017) has 10 more acres of fairways, so they’re a lot bigger and wider. There are more fescue areas and bunkering, as I mentioned, there are more, pot-style and smaller bunkers. The kind he used later in his career. It’s a little shorter, but the front side is a lot longer than the back. It also offers tees for every level of play.
What are some of your favorite holes on Mystic Rock, and why?
I like No. 5, it’s a par-5 that’s a risk-reward. It’s short enough from the proper tees to go for it in two. But the risk you take to go for it – there’s a double green that we move the pin on, but the bottom green that we use a couple times a week is surrounded by water on two sides. So, if you’re going for it in two you have to mess with the bunker on the right and water on the left and backside of the green.
Thirteen on Mystic is a short par 4, but the bunkering is some of the best we have. It’s a nice little simple par 4 that if you hit a good drive, you should be able to make a good score on that hole.
Then, 18 really changed from a playability standpoint. We added a bunch of bunkers on the right-hand side, so it’s a good look for a nice finishing hole now.
Shepherd's Rock takes you through some distinct natural settings and landforms. There’s extreme variety. Which holes stand out as some of your favorites?
On the front nine, the par-3, No. 5. From the Resort Tees, it’s a 150- to 160-yarder, but it has an infinity green look where the green disappears into the big pond behind the green. It’s a nice look.
Playing No. 9 from the back tee, which plays 700 yards – playing that par-5 from the back tee is a pretty fun hole. It’s even uphill the whole way.
On the back nine, No. 11 has a nice wide fairway and a wetlands area down the left-hand side, and a wetlands area in front of the green that you have to carry. It’s in a great spot on the back nine there.
Eighteen has a good waterfall finishing hole there. It’s very nice.
What’s your career low score on both courses?
I shot 75 on Mystic once. At Shepherd’s, I think my low is 78. Maybe 79. That’s one of the unique things about the resort and having two Pete Dyes; they are vastly different. The concepts are the same but how they’re laid out and how they play are so different from each other.
Nemacolin offers one of the most complete golfing experiences in the country in a setting that has to be seen to be believed. How would you design the perfect three-day golf agenda for a foursome at Nemacolin?
You’d come in the first day, play golf in the afternoon on Mystic Rock, then go to dinner that night. The next morning – this is where you can go either way – but you can play Shepherd’s in the morning after breakfast and play Mystic in the afternoon again, then go to dinner. Finish the third day in the morning at either Shepherd’s or Mystic, whichever you prefer, then take off after that. We have a handful of places where you can enjoy dinner, some place different every night. You can encapsulate the entire resort that way.
In addition to golf, what are these essential experiences you like to see people put into their vacation time at Nemacolin?
The Field Club is fun to go shoot some sporting clays. The trappers out there a really good and make it enjoyable even if you don’t shoot that often. Everyone ends up hitting clays when they go out there. That’s how good it is. We have The Peak, which has a phenomenal outdoor pool area, lounge chairs, swim up bar, big screen TVs and live bands. You can pretty much hang out there all day. The spa would be nice, too, especially if you’re playing 54 or 72 holes while you’re here. Go get a massage after you play golf.
If someone’s never been to the Laurel Highlands and seen the particular natural beauty there at Nemacolin, how do you describe it to them?
Up here, on the mountain, it’s very mild. It doesn’t get extremely hot during the summertime. That last couple summers we may have gotten into the 90s a couple times. That’s all. Being at 2,000 feet elevation keeps the temperature down and makes it comfortable all year around. Then you have the views from the mountains and the foliage in the fall. We also have a lot of great things to do in the area – hiking, rafting, bike trails. You’re really able to enjoy a lot of the outdoors that this area has to offer.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Five Iron Golf Launches Franchising Program
Leading Urban Golf Operator and Trailblazer for the ‘Modern Golf’ Movement Continues Its Rapid Growth
(NEW YORK) – Five Iron Golf, the nation's leading urban golf experience, is excited to unveil its franchising program, opening up new avenues for expansion and growth both domestically and internationally.
Renowned for its authentic, accessible, and dynamic golf and entertainment experiences, the six-year-old company is now offering franchise opportunities for both single unit and multi-unit development. To date, Five Iron Golf has owned and operated all 18 of its U.S. locations across 11 cities.
“Independent data supports our position that the future is very bright for modern, non-traditional golf experiences,” says Jared Solomon, CEO and co-founder of Five Iron Golf. “According to the National Golf Foundation, for the first time, more Americans are playing ‘off-course’ golf than playing on green grass. This shift in consumer behavior mirrors our growth strategy, as we’ve opened eight locations since the start of 2022 with five more coming online later this year.”
Five Iron Golf’s expansion to a franchise model is similarly rooted in data, with early signs of success at its two current international locations in Singapore and New Delhi, India (opening this summer).
“Moving forward, our franchise program will serve as an accelerant for additional growth, so we can keep pace with increased consumer demand,” adds Solomon. “As operators ourselves, we have experienced and perfected all aspects of the business, from build outs to programming and service. We’re excited to attract franchisees who, like our team, are passionate about the game of golf and eager to increase its approachability and accessibility.”
Brand versatility is a key Five Iron Golf factor that makes it appealing to diverse audiences of avid golfers and entertainment seekers. Since opening its flagship Manhattan location in 2017, the company has been recognized as a leader in the "Modern Golf" movement as it seeks to make the game more inclusive and accessible.
This emphasis on making the game more welcoming for all is combined with a track record of operational excellence. All Five Iron Golf facilities feature world-class technology like simulators from TrackMan Golf, the latest club offerings from Callaway, and a wide range of programming options to cater to the diverse needs and interests of its customers.
“Five Iron Golf has built a strong brand and leadership position in the evolving indoor golf market by creating technology-driven, eye-catching venues appealing to avid golfers, pure entertainment seekers, and everyone in between,” says Chip Brewer, President and CEO of Callaway. “This innovative business aligns with Callaway’s belief that the future of golf will be more accessible and inclusive.”
In addition to its exceptional golf offerings, Five Iron Golf has perfected a premium food and beverage program, adding an extra touch of excellence to the overall experience. This ensures customers remain engaged and satisfied beyond their time in the simulators.
“We’ve established strong relationships with trusted suppliers in the industry,” says Solomon. “Franchisees will have access to these supplier relationships, enabling them to source high-quality equipment, products, and services to deliver a consistent and outstanding experience at their own Five Iron Golf venues.”
Franchisee support is comprehensive and covers various aspects of the business, including development advice, operational playbooks, marketing expertise, business development, and partnership support. Franchisees will have access to the knowledge and guidance of experienced professionals who have successfully navigated the challenges of establishing and operating Five Iron Golf venues. In addition, franchisees will benefit from Five Iron Golf's technology and enterprise systems, which have been refined and optimized to ensure seamless operations and an exceptional customer experience.
The current franchise investment range is set between $1.4 and $4.2 million, while initial franchise fees for a single-unit franchise are $50,000. The operating royalty fee is 7%. Inquiries for additional details about the franchising opportunity can be made here.
Five Iron Golf plans to host its first discovery days in June and October, inviting prospective franchisees to tour existing operations and attend presentations from department heads and senior leadership.
Adds Solomon: “With a diverse range of revenue streams, including memberships, simulator rentals, lessons, events, and a full food and beverage program, Five Iron Golf franchises offer exciting opportunities for dedicated operators to be part of a community that is revolutionizing the golf industry. We have worked hard to perfect a customer-centric model, catering to serious golfers and entertainment seekers alike.”
Thursday, May 11, 2023
Vokey WedgeWorks Introduces Limited Edition 58° and 60° V Grind
(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – Vokey WedgeWorks introduces the new Limited 58.10° and 60.10° V Grind, inspired by the collaboration of Master Craftsman Bob Vokey and Vokey Tour Rep Aaron Dill with tour players around the world.
The V Grind is designed for players seeking a wedge that provides increased bounce on square faced shots and enhanced relief on open faced shots. On full shots, the V Grind features high measured bounce forward on the sole. Yet when the face of the V Grind is opened, the wedge produces increased versatility through heel, toe, and trailing edge sole relief, allowing the leading edge to stay closer to the ground.
“This wedge is ideal for golfers that play in normal to soft soil conditions, as well as on courses where the bunkers have more sand,” Vokey said. “It is also ideal for players with neutral to steeper angles of attack who still like to open the face when hitting shots around the green.”
The WedgeWorks V Grind is visually similar to the SM9 T Grind due to the narrower forward sole – towards the leading edge – and aggressive heel, toe and trailing edge relief. The V Grind, however, plays to a higher effective bounce than the T Grind. It is also better suited to players who have a neutral to steep angle of attack around the green and on fuller swings, whereas the T grind is designed for players with a more shallow delivery.
Advanced Personalization and Custom Options: Limited Edition 58° and 60° V Grind features a modern, clean look, which provides a canvas for customization. The WedgeWorks custom options include:
- Six unique toe engravings
- Stamping options | 10-character Straight/Freestyle stamping; 15 characters around the toe and two lines of 10 characters each
- Flight Lines alignment feature
WedgeWorks Limited Edition V Grind can also be custom ordered with an industry-leading selection of shafts, grips, shaft bands and ferrules. For a complete list of options, visit www.Vokey.com.
Stock Shaft: Dynamic Gold S200 | Stock Grip: Golf Pride 360
Availability: The Vokey WedgeWorks Limited 58° and 60° V Grind, both with 10° of effective bounce, will be available on May 16 in Tour Chrome or Raw finishes. MSRP: $225 while supplies last.
Todd Snyder Partners with FootJoy to Introduce The Back Tees Collection
(RELEASE) — How would the most iconic players in golf history dress if they stepped onto the links today? The answer is the Todd Snyder x FootJoy Collection. Titled “The Back Tees”, the collection was inspired by the golf fashion of old-school greats on and off the course. The styles borrow from the traditional codes of American menswear and place them in performance technical fabrics.
For this collaboration, Todd and the FootJoy team set out to create contemporary interpretations of 60s and 70s golf style. The team emphasized refined fabrics--including pique polos, mercerized sweaters and cotton/cashmere sweatshirts--then reinterpreted these iconic athletic styles in a thoroughly modern way. The collection features apparel in blacks, blues, olives and as well as geometric and jacquard prints, and two new premium pebble-grain leather golf shoes based on FootJoy’s Wilcox and Field Premiere Series models.
“I am so excited to be working with FootJoy again to create a collection worthy of the pro tees, we’ve taken some of our favorite design details from the golden age of golf–including the luster of mercerised cotton sweater polos and the brogueing on a bespoke golf shoe–and combined them with state-of-the-art technology and modern style.” says Snyder. “Because one thing that I’ve learned in my years on the links is that you can’t always be the best player in your foursome, but if you’re wearing our collection you can certainly be the most stylish.”
“Todd has been an ideal partner for us,” says Chris Tobias, Vice President, FJ Footwear. "He understands both the world of modern men’s fashion and the needs of the modern golfer, allowing him to reinterpret classic, iconic looks into FootJoy products that are a pleasure to play in."
Since their debut collection in spring 2021, the duo’s partnership has filled a gap in the marketplace and has proven itself to be a strong customer acquisition and retention strategy. “We have seen consistent 50% year-over-year sales growth since our first launch in 2021, demonstrating the strength of our partnership with FootJoy. Our elevated menswear-inspired take on the sport continues to resonate with our existing customers and especially new customers.” says Alejandro Rhett, Chief Product Officer of Todd Snyder. “People discovering Todd Snyder for the first time through golf have proven to be a valuable long-term customer, returning back to convert through our mainline collections again.”
The FootJoy and Todd Snyder Collection drops May 18th, 2023 at 10AM ET. The collection will be available at ToddSnyder.com, FootJoy.com and select retail locations.
Baby Caddie Gets Moms & Dads Back on the Golf Course
(RELEASE) — Having a baby is life changing in many ways, but thanks to Babby Caddie, the innovative new golf bag for strollers, a return to the fairways might not be as far away as you would think for Moms and Dads.
“There are two types of golfer with a baby. Those who play less often and dream of a time when they can get back to the game they love; and those who leave their partner at home, hoping they’re not pushing their luck with one round too many,” explains Founder of Baby Caddie Ben Luffman. “We didn’t want to be either!”
Ben had already started taking his eldest daughter on to the course when she was old enough to sit on a golf cart. When his youngest arrived he decided to find a way to get out on course sooner, so started developing prototype designs for a golf bag that attaches to a stroller which lead to the formative design for Baby Caddie.
Using adjustable Velcro straps, the Baby Caddie attaches to the back of virtually any stroller. The Baby Caddie can adjust with the stroller so it works whether set up in a bassinet, forward facing, rear facing or lying down configuration. Holding up to 12 clubs and featuring two spacious pockets for accessories, the Baby Caddie is the perfect partner for a trip to the course or the range with your little one. From the comfort of their own stroller, your mini playing partner will glide the fairways and enjoy the time with you in the fresh air. And if you do want a quick trip out on your own, the Baby Caddie converts to a simple lightweight carry bag. When not being used, it rolls up for convenient storage.
Feedback from governing bodies all over the world has been fantastic, acknowledging the potential impact this could have on current golfers. As well as enabling parents to continue to play the game, the fact that Baby Caddie is introducing children to golf at such a young age will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the game.
“Every course I’ve taken the Baby Caddie to has welcomed us. We played 3 times a week, my handicap improved by 5 shots and we had some fantastic daddy/daughter time. The Baby Caddie is perfect for Moms and Dads who love golf, but struggle to justify the time away from home,” concludes Ben.
For more information visit www.babycaddie.golf
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
An Insulated Flask that Plays Music!
Scotty Cameron Introduces Four New Models to Super Select Putter Family: GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar
New Releases Complete the Super Select’s 10-Model Milled Putter Lineup
(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – The Super Select line of Scotty Cameron putters is now complete with the addition of four new models – the GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar – arriving in golf shops on Friday, May 19.
Inspired by the long-term success of tour professionals who have trusted prior generation GOLO models, Cameron has refined this sought-after design with the new Super Select GOLO 6 and GOLO 6.5 mid-mallet putter offerings. Revamped Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar models further bolster a Super Select milled putter lineup that features new dual-milled face technology and enhanced feel in a variety of head shapes and neck configurations to appeal to nearly every golfer’s putting preference.
Both the new GOLO 6.5 and Fastback 1.5 models feature a new, precision sculpted “I-beam” neck design previously only available on the worldwide tours.
The GOLO 6.5 and Del Mar models are also available in left-handed options.
QUOTING SCOTTY CAMERON: “While the GOLO has not been in our production putter line for several years, it has continued to be a winner across the worldwide professional tours. The LPGA Tour’s first major championship of the year – the Chevron Championship – as well the Honda LPGA Thailand, were won with GOLO models. J.T. Poston won the John Deere Classic last year with a GOLO, and we had four GOLO wins on the 2022 Japan PGA Tour. So, I’ve brought back the GOLO name and shape in a new size. It’s a classic mallet shape that offers a lot of forgiveness and alignment in a rounder, softer shape and low profile that’s really pleasing to the eye. And with the new GOLO 6 and 6.5 models, the size is my new favorite. Familiar models like the Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar have been refined with our new dual-milled faces for great feel, combined with the Super Select line’s performance weighting, finish and graphics. We now have a complete Super Select putter family with a model to suit nearly everyone who plays the game.”
2023 SUPER SELECT MODELS: The four new Super Select models offer golfers multiple options in 33", 34" and 35" lengths, each with a specific neck/shaft configuration – flow, jet or mid-bend shaft – and the proper sole weight designation for ultimate player flexibility, sizing and preference.
• Super Select GOLO 6: The GOLO returns in a new size as the Super Select GOLO 6, a rounded compact mallet precision milled from 303 stainless steel sized in between the previous GOLO 5 and 7 models. With a mid-bend shaft and an integrated sole plate machined from 6061 aircraft aluminum, the GOLO 6 includes the line’s new dual-milled face technology and stainless steel sole weights.
• Super Select GOLO 6.5: The Super Select GOLO 6.5 has a small I-beam jet neck and is precision milled from 303 stainless steel with a solid face and an integrated 6061 aircraft aluminum sole plate. It includes the line’s dual-milled face technology and adjustable performance weighting with stainless steel sole weights. A left-handed Super Select GOLO 6.5 is also available.
• Super Select Del Mar: The new Super Select Del Mar is a heel-shafted compact mallet with a flow neck precision milled from solid 303 stainless steel that includes dual-milled face technology and customizable stainless steel sole weights. It is also available in a left-handed configuration.
• Super Select Fastback 1.5: With a new precision sculpted I-beam jet neck – as well as the line’s new dual-milled face technology – the Super Select Fastback 1.5 is a mid-mallet with a solid milled putter face integrated with an engineered 6061 aluminum sole plate and stainless steel sole weights.
2023 SUPER SELECT OVERVIEW: The complete Scotty Cameron Super Select line includes 10 blade and mid-mallet models: Newport, Newport Plus, Newport 2, Newport 2 Plus, Newport 2.5 Plus, Squareback 2 and now the GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar. Introduced earlier in 2023, the Super Select family includes new “Plus” models, refined milling methods, revamped neck styles, better multi-material construction and engineered weight distribution.
• INNOVATIVE ‘PLUS’ DESIGNS: Scotty Cameron designed the Super Select Newport Plus, Newport 2 Plus and Newport 2.5 Plus models with slightly wider profiles than traditional blade dimensions to deliver mallet-like forgiveness and stability in slim, blade-like shapes. Plus models give players a familiar, blade-like view from address and increase MOI for a confidence-inspiring setup.
• NEW ‘DUAL-MILLED’ FACE TECHNOLOGY: The Super Select line introduced a new dual-milled face milling technology that takes sound, feel and feedback to a new level, combining the softness revered in previously released deep-milled putters with the feedback, consistency and roll of Scotty’s more recent mid-milled offerings. This new face technology brings a tour-inspired look and feel to every model in the Super Select line.
• NEW ‘I-BEAM’ NECK DESIGN: Super Select GOLO 6.5 and Fastback 1.5 models feature an "I-beam" neck design that Scotty adapted from putters he’s made for tour professionals. The precision sculpted necks give each model a racier, industrial look, but also allow for the removal and targeted repositioning of weight from the neck to the heel and toe of the putter head.
• PERFORMANCE WEIGHTING: Super Select GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Del Mar and Fastback 1.5 putters incorporate performance weighting technology featuring customizable sole weights precision milled in the United States from 303 stainless steel. Used in conjunction with purpose-built aluminum sole plates in the GOLO and Fastback 1.5 models, Scotty’s performance weighting concept allows for optimal weight distribution and proper performance at every length.
SUPER SELECT WEIGHTING & SHAFTS: Each new Super Select putter features performance weighting with two customizable heel-toe weights (stainless steel for latest models) and stepless steel shafts.
NEW GRIPS: Each Super Select model has a specific grip, designed to provide each putter’s proper swing weight, balance and correct in-hand feel. The new GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar, each come with a textured Pistolero Plus grip that carries through the line’s color scheme. The Pistolero Plus has a larger profile in the top hand location near the butt of the grip and is also slightly heavier and provides the appropriate complement to the mid-mallet putters’ head shapes.
FINISH & GRAPHICS: Super Select stainless steel putter heads all undergo Scotty’s silver mist process for a near-permanent, radiant, yet glare-resistant, appearance and texture. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum components have been misted and anodized in a clear, bright aluminum finish. Scotty’s familiar three-dot theme carries through to the back cavities as unpainted, raw circles milled into the stainless steel. The engravings and sight lines are painted asphalt gray, except on the soles where Scotty Cameron is accented in cherry red translucent paint.
AVAILABILITY: Scotty Cameron Super Select GOLO 6, GOLO 6.5, Fastback 1.5 and Del Mar putter models will be available worldwide beginning May 19, 2023, through Titleist authorized golf shops. MAP: $449
ON THE WEB: www.scottycameron.com
Monday, May 8, 2023
SuperStroke Congratulates Wyndham Clark on First-Career PGA Tour Victory at The Wells Fargo Championship
Resilient Tour veteran uses Zenergy Tour 3.0 17" “Off the Truck” putter grip in three-shot win
(Wixom, MI) – SuperStroke, the No. 1 Putter Grip in golf and the leader in innovative Tour-proven golf grip technology, congratulates Colorado native and PGA Tour veteran Wyndham Clark on his first-career victory at The Wells Fargo Championship. Clark secured a two-year playing exemption on the Tour and will be in the field at The Masters for his first time in 2024, courtesy of the three-shot win. Clark followed up a bogey-free 63 in the third round with four birdies on the closing nine to cap off a bold and composed five-birdie round of 68.
After carding top-10 finishes in five previous events this season, Clark broke through at the Wells Fargo using a SuperStroke Zenergy Tour 3.0 17” putter grip (from the brand’s new “Off the Truck” series) to race past the tournament’s deep field. By claiming the $3.6 million prize purse in this designated PGA Tour event, he also became the first player to win a PGA Tour event using the new SuperStroke Zenergy putter grip.“The entire SuperStroke team congratulates Wyndham Clark on capturing his first-career victory in dominant style with a SuperStroke Zenergy Tour 3.0 17” putter grip,” says SuperStroke CEO Dean Dingman. “It was fantastic to see how comfortable and confident he looked all week with a putter and grip combo he’s only had in play for a few short weeks. We’re also thrilled that Wyndham became the first player to use a Superstroke Zenergy grip in a PGA Tour victory. He will be the first of many to win with the enhanced feel, responsiveness, and trust Zenergy brings.”
SuperStroke brand ambassador Sungjae Im, using 1.0PT putter grip, logged his seventh top-10 finish of the season with rounds of 69-66-68-72 to close out the tournament tied for eighth.
At 3.6 inches longer than the standard grip, the Zenergy Tour 3.0 17" – released as part of SuperStroke’s “Off the Truck” series of grips that have been developed with crucial input from tour professionals seeking feel, comfort, performance, and a competitive edge – offers golfers a range of unique benefits. Like any of SuperStroke's extended length grips, the Tour 3.0 17" can be used to achieve an armlock setup by positioning the grip up the forearm. Additionally, the Tour 3.0 17" grip can serve as a counterbalance option, extending the grip above the hands. This allows golfers to shift the weight above the hands and elevate the balance point of the putter, resulting in a more consistent stroke.
Available in White & Black and Red & Black options, the Zenergy Tour 3.0 17" Tour Series putter grip features SuperStroke’s traditional and most popular putter grip profile. The Tour Series parallel design has a uniform lower hand profile to minimize grip pressure and maintain putter head path for a more consistent stroke.
As part of Zenergy, SuperStroke’s latest line of putter grips featuring enhanced Spyne technology, the Zenergy Tour 3.0 17” Putter Grip features new multi-zone texturing, and our patented no-taper shape for unmatched confidence to quiet your hands – and your mind.
Features Include:
Enhanced Spyne™ Technology – The new Spyne™ Technology has an improved, embossed ridge along the underside of the grip, engineered to make it easier to square the face at impact.
New Multi-Zone Texturing – Strategically placed textured in high-sensory areas designed to optimize feedback and comfort from the incredibly soft polyurethane outer layer.
Tech-Port – Located at the top of SuperStroke grips, Tech-Port allows golfers to easily add game-improvement options including the patented CounterCore weight system and performance tracking sensors.
Specifications:
Width: 1.23"
Length: 17"
Weight: 93g
Core: 0.6"
SuperStroke grips are trusted by legions of top professional golfers. In 2022, SuperStroke users won 61 tournaments on golf’s major professional tours, totaling more than $58.5 million in first-place prize money in those events.
SuperStroke’s putter grip line is a product of relentless innovation, fueled by feedback from more than 450 tour pros. From signature shapes and sizes to the cutting-edge materials, SuperStroke delivers unprecedented features into every putter grip while connecting golfer and putter like no other product on the market.
For more details on SuperStroke’s range of innovative golf grips and to keep up with the latest news from the company, visit https://superstrokeusa.com/.
Swing Control for the Ultimate Mother's Day Gift
Give the special person in your life, the gift of style. For golf. For life.
(MONTRĖAL, CA) – Swing Control, manufacturers of the performance-based golf and lifestyle apparel brand, celebrate the mothers, grandmothers, and all the people who have dedicated their lives to raising and developing the next generation. This Mother’s Day, give them the gift of comfort with style – Swing Control.
“The role of a mother is boundless. From a caregiver to a teacher, to chef to activity director. It’s an incredible privilege but demanding. Show your appreciation. Style them in comfort with Swing Control, an aesthetic line of apparel that transitions perfectly from the golf course to playground to the board room,” said Swing Control Brand Manager Josh Mark.
Swing Control’s new wide-ranging line of shorts, skorts, pants, and dresses from the 2023 Spring Collection offers plenty of options for the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Every piece from this collection is impeccably tailored and crafted to perfection, using luxe high-tech fabrics such as pique, bamboo, Cloud, Techno Stretch, and Ponte di Roma.
“Our design team prides itself in creating luxury performance pieces that reach new heights and the highly curated Spring 2023 Collection is no exception. They pushed creative boundaries to produce a color story that consists of four fresh and different groupings, keeping us stylishly above par,” added Mark.
For more information, please visit the Swing Control website at www.swingcontrol.com.
Friday, May 5, 2023
Tom Doak, Pinehurst Resort Release Must-See 10th Course Update Video
For those awaiting an update on the 10th course at Pinehurst Resort, the wait is over. To quote Doak, “It is going pretty fast. We’re pretty quick on shaping greens.” Not only shaping greens, but turfing green complexes, fairways, tees boxes and more. But if a picture is worth a thousand words, a 2:30 video might be worth 10,000.
Check out Pinehurst Resort’s just-released video featuring numerous drone shots of the 10th course and invaluable insights from Doak about the front nine, back nine, terrain and timing. Landscape architect Angela Moser is the lead design associate and has been heavily involved in all day-to-day operations. Moser’s impressive credentials include work at the Los Angeles Country Club’s North Course, which will host the 123rd U.S. Open next month.
Located four miles south of the main resort clubhouse, the 10th course will open in 2024, coinciding with the return of the U.S. Open to Pinehurst No. 2. Doak and Moser’s layout incorporates rugged dunes mined at the turn of the 20th century accented by native sand and wiregrass. With natural ridgelines, intriguing landforms, towering longleaf pines, streams and ponds, they envision a course that complements the resort’s other courses through its contrasts.
Keep up with the 10th course and more via Pinehurst Resort online:
Pinehurst News: www.pinehurst.com/news/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/pinehurstresort/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PinehurstResort
Twitter: twitter.com/PinehurstResort
Thursday, May 4, 2023
Bear Bryant Would've Been a Dandy Boy!
Rumbling Bald Spring, Fall and Weekday Golf Packages Available for Groups of All Sizes
Bald Mountain |
Golf Retreat on N.C.’s Lake Lure Features Apple Valley, Bald Mountain Golf Courses
(LAKE LURE, N.C.) – Rumbling Bald – the 36-hole golf sanctuary on Lake Lure an hour east of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains – offers Spring/Fall Packages on weekends and Weekday Packages for groups of all sizes throughout the year.
Spring/Fall Packages (Thursday – Sunday) start at $363 per golfer for two nights lodging in a vacation rental and two rounds on Apple Valley and Bald Mountain golf courses. Three-night, three-round and four-night, four-round options are also available for $501 and $640 per golfer. Rumbling Bald’s popular Weekday Packages (Sunday – Wednesday) began April 1, with rates starting at $330 per person for two nights and two rounds, $452 for three nights and three rounds, and $574 for four nights and four rounds.
Lodging options geared specifically for golfers include the Apple Valley Studios (across from Apple Valley) and two-bedroom Fairway Villas situated along Bald Mountain just steps from its first tee. Via its wide variety of spacious vacation rentals, Rumbling Bald can accommodate golf groups of all sizes. Luxury vacation homes are also available for extended stays and golf rounds can be added a la carte.
Apple Valley |
“As the days continue to get longer and sunnier, this is the peak golf season here in North Carolina and the Lake Lure area,” says Rumbling Bald General Manager Jeff Geisler. “The Bermuda turf grass has greened up, especially the Champion Bermuda greens on Apple Valley installed in 2020. For many folks, it’s been a busy start to the year. We’re excited to welcome golfers to Rumbling Bald for some real rest and relaxation.”
Rumbling Bald extends complimentary golf rounds to leaders of groups of 12 or more when booking their first trip to the property. The Large Groups 12+ Comp is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, small tournaments, or large golf buddy trips. The shoulder- and off-seasons are ideal for group play, with ample value and typically a faster pace of play than the peak spring and fall periods. While situated near the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald enjoys temperatures similar to Charlotte, the largest neighboring city.
To learn more about Rumbling Bald’s golf courses and packages, visit www.rumblingbald.com or email jdoran@rumblingbald.com. To book packages directly or to speak with a golf vacation planner, call (828) 694.3072. Golfers are advised to call, email or check the website for course maintenance and closure schedules. Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (four players in a two-bedroom villa or two in a one-bedroom studio). Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (blackout dates apply).