Aaron Rai’s Brilliant Back-Nine Charge Put a Fitting Finish on a Wild PGA Championship

The 2026 PGA Championship had everything: star collapses, impossible pin locations, angry exchanges with fans, LIV-vs.-PGA tension, and a Sunday leaderboard that looked ready to turn into total chaos. And then, through all of it, Aaron Rai delivered the kind of closing stretch that instantly becomes part of major championship history.

Rai’s final-round 65 at Aronimink wasn’t just enough to win his first major championship. It was historic.

Over his final 10 holes, Rai played them in 6-under par, becoming just the third player in modern major championship history to finish that strongly and still win the tournament. The other two names on that list tell you everything you need to know about the company he joined: Cameron Smith at the 2022 Open Championship and Jack Nicklaus during his legendary 1986 Masters victory.

That closing stretch transformed what had been a tense, crowded Sunday into a coronation.

Rai entered the final round chasing, not leading. But while bigger names stumbled around Aronimink’s punishing setup, he got steadier as the pressure mounted. His tournament scores — 70, 69, 67, 65 — made him the first player in PGA Championship history to improve his score in every single round en route to victory.

That almost never happens in major championships because majors are designed to break players down physically and mentally as the week progresses. Instead, Rai got sharper.

The victory also carried broader historical significance for European golf. Rai became the first player representing England to win the PGA Championship since Jim Barnes captured the first two editions of the event in 1916 and 1919. And in the modern era of the four current majors, this is the first season in which Europeans have captured both of the first two majors of the year.

The week, though, will also be remembered for how brutally Aronimink tested the world’s best players.

Players spent much of the championship openly complaining about course setup, particularly the hole locations. Scottie Scheffler called one Friday pin placement among the hardest he had ever seen. Rory McIlroy unraveled late Thursday, then boiled over Sunday during a heated interaction with a fan after a “U-S-A!” chant from the crowd.

And still, amid all the carnage, somebody nearly stole the championship outright.

Kurt Kitayama fired a stunning final-round 63, tying the major championship record for the lowest final round ever recorded. He became just the second player to shoot 63 in the final round of a PGA Championship, joining Brad Faxon in 1995.

For a few hours Sunday afternoon, Kitayama’s charge looked like it might become one of the great major comebacks ever. Instead, it became the final obstacle Rai calmly stepped over on his way to the Wanamaker Trophy.

That’s ultimately what made this PGA Championship memorable.

It wasn’t dominance from start to finish. It wasn’t survival golf. It was escalation. Every hour brought more tension, more volatility, and more opportunities for the tournament to spin sideways.

And when the dust settled, the player standing tallest was the one who improved every single day and played his best golf when the pressure was greatest.

Aaron Rai didn’t just win the PGA Championship.

He closed it like a major champion.

Trump-Backed East Potomac Renovation Plan Revealed, Sparking Fresh Debate Over D.C. Muni’s Future

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on Thursday unveiled a new rendering for the future of East Potomac Golf Links, offering the clearest look yet at the controversial overhaul of the historic municipal golf facility.

The proposed redesign, created by renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, features a par-72 championship course stretching 7,660 yards across the manmade peninsula in southwest Washington, D.C. The plan also includes three new water features, a large practice complex and what appears to be a nine-hole short course north of the main layout. A sizeable section at the southern end of the peninsula would remain dedicated green space rather than golf development.

Additional details about the project have not yet been released by either Burgum’s office or Fazio.

The future of East Potomac has become one of the most debated golf projects in the country. The century-old muni currently offers affordable public golf, with greens fees hovering around $40, but critics worry the proposed transformation could dramatically change both the character and accessibility of the property.

The controversy intensified after the Trump administration terminated the lease of the National Links Trust in December. The nonprofit previously held long-term leases for East Potomac along with D.C.’s other municipal courses, Langston Golf Course and Rock Creek Golf Course, with plans to restore all three facilities.

Federal officials cited missed payments and delayed improvements as reasons for ending the agreement, though the NLT disputed those claims and said it strongly disagreed with the administration’s characterization of the situation.

Just last week, however, the administration shifted course again, announcing that the National Park Service would partner with both private and public groups — including the NLT — to begin immediate renovations at East Potomac while returning oversight of Langston and Rock Creek back to the nonprofit.

Officials say the goal is to create a nationally recognized public golf destination while maintaining affordable access for local players. Burgum compared the vision for East Potomac to celebrated municipal venues like Bethpage Black Course and Torrey Pines Golf Course, promising “championship-quality golf” at discounted local rates.

Still, many local golfers and preservation advocates remain unconvinced.

Advocacy group Save East Po criticized the proposal Thursday, arguing the community was excluded from the planning process. The organization also objected to reducing the facility from 36 holes to 27 and questioned whether the redesign adequately honors the original architecture of legendary designer Walter Travis.

Fazio’s proposed routing bears little resemblance to the historic layout that has existed at East Potomac for more than a century.

Despite the backlash, the NLT praised the administration’s pledge to keep the facility affordable, pointing to successful public golf models like Memorial Park Golf Course and Bethpage State Park as examples of high-quality municipal golf that remains accessible to local communities.

Donald Trump has said little publicly about the redevelopment plans, though he told The Wall Street Journal in December that if his administration moved forward with the courses, “we’ll do it really beautifully.”

Colonial Country Club Unveils Newly Renovated and Expanded Amenities

(Fort Myers, Fla.) – Colonial Country Club has completed a comprehensive, multi-million-dollar renovation of its amenities, including the golf shop, cart barn, pool area, and community center. This project follows the recent $9 million golf course renovation, further elevating the member experience at the club. 

The golf shop underwent a complete remodel, focusing on offering quality apparel and goods at member-friendly prices. The cart barn was rebuilt and expanded, reopening with a new, upgraded fleet of carts; a new storage mezzanine with double the bag storage capacity; a club fitting room; additional merchandise storage and a staff break room. The wellness center now features additional meeting spaces, a revamped selection of athletic wear, new gym equipment, an enhanced sound system, acoustic paneling in fitness areas, complimentary daily coffee and fruit stations, and digital signage. The pool deck has been remodeled to include weekend DJ entertainment, chef-attended grills, and drink specials. 

These enhancements have significantly contributed to the club’s vibrant atmosphere, leading to the largest revenue month in Colonial’s food and beverage history this past March.

“Over the last several years, Colonial has remained focused on making thoughtful investments that enhance the overall member experience while also positioning the club strongly for the future,” said Colonial Country Club Board President Dan Casciano. “We committed ourselves to doing these projects the right way the first time. Through strong planning, teamwork, and oversight, these projects were completed on schedule, under budget, and without sacrificing quality. We are extremely proud of the outcome and appreciative of everyone who played a role in bringing this vision to life.”

“We wanted every enhancement to feel intentional and member focused. What makes me most proud is not just the physical transformation, but the people behind it,” said Colonial Country Club General Manager and COO Robert D. Podley CCM, CCE, CAM. “Our team remained incredibly committed throughout the process, continuing to deliver exceptional hospitality and service while operating through construction and change. Their passion, adaptability, and dedication to our members are what truly brought these enhancements to life.”

Earlier this year, golf course architect Gordon Lewis led course renovation work that focused on improving playability, aesthetics, and sustainability of the 24-year-old course.

Colonial Country Club is recognized as a Distinguished Club by BoardRoom Magazine;  one of the Top Four Most Sustainable Clubs in the U.S. by Vivid Leaf; one of ‘America’s Healthiest Clubs’ by Prevo Health Solutions; a Top 100 Golf Shop by the AGM Platinum Awards; achieved Top-Ranked status in culinary and racquet operations from Club and Resort Business Magazine. For more information on Colonial Country Club, visit www.colonialcc.com or call (239) 768-9421.

What Are the Worst Golf Courses in Minnesota?

Hiawatha

Minnesota is often celebrated as one of America’s hidden golf gems, home to pristine public layouts, lush fairways, and legendary destinations like Hazeltine National Golf Club and Rush Creek Golf Club. But not every course in the Land of 10,000 Lakes lives up to the hype.

Dig through enough online reviews, golfer forums, and travel sites, and a few names repeatedly surface for all the wrong reasons: poor conditions, frustrating management, and layouts players describe as “unplayable.” Here are the three Minnesota golf courses that have earned some of the harshest criticism from golfers.

1. Hiawatha Golf Course — Minneapolis

If there’s one Minnesota course that inspired truly venomous reviews, it’s Hiawatha. One reviewer called it “quite possibly the worst golf course in Minnesota,” blasting the greens, tee boxes, and overall maintenance. Complaints focused on bare patches, deep ruts, inconsistent putting surfaces, and pricing that golfers felt was wildly out of line with the conditions.

The frustration seems magnified because Minneapolis is known for several solid municipal layouts. Golfers expect better — and many reviewers felt Hiawatha fell dramatically short.

2. Bluff Creek Golf Course — Chaska

Bluff Creek

Bluff Creek’s reputation suffers less from catastrophic course conditions and more from golfer experience. Reviews repeatedly mention slow pace-of-play disputes and negative interactions with course staff. One Tripadvisor reviewer described being followed by a ranger and threatened with removal despite only being slightly behind pace.

Players also criticized the course layout and upkeep, calling it “mediocre quality” and not worth the hassle. In a state packed with affordable public golf options, many golfers simply believe there are better places to spend a Saturday afternoon.

3. Westfield Golf Course — Winona

Westfield

Westfield may be the definition of a “love-it-or-hate-it” local muni, but online reviews lean heavily toward the latter. One golfer described it as “the worst golf course I have ever played,” citing poor maintenance, repetitive holes, flooded sections, and unpleasant customer service.

Several complaints centered around inconsistent operations, including partially closed holes and disagreements over cart usage and tee times. For golfers traveling through southeastern Minnesota, Westfield has become one of those cautionary tales golfers warn each other about online.

The Bigger Picture

Even the worst-rated courses usually have defenders. Cheap greens fees, nostalgia, location convenience, or beginner-friendly setups can keep struggling municipal courses alive. And golf reviews are famously subjective — a scratch golfer and a casual weekend player may have completely different experiences on the same course.

Still, when the same complaints appear over and over — poor conditions, pricing concerns, and bad customer experiences — reputations stick.

That’s especially true in Minnesota, where golfers know just how good golf in the state can be.

Troon Selected to Manage Kiahuna Golf Club in Kauai, Hawaii

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services, has been selected to manage Kiahuna Golf Club, a daily-fee facility in Poipu, Hawaii on the island of Kauai. Troon Golf, the resort and daily-fee division of Troon, will oversee operations, agronomy, retail and sales and marketing.

Located in Poipu, near Kauai’s southern shore, Kiahuna Golf Club features an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course. The 6,787-yard, par-70 course winds through lush tropical landscapes, lava rock formations, and ancient Hawaiian archeological sites, creating a one-of-a-kind blend of history and sport. With warm ocean breezes, rolling fairways, and panoramic mountain views, Kiahuna is a scenic destination just minutes from world-class resorts and beaches.

“Kiahuna Golf Course is more than a place to play. It reflects rich history, natural beauty and people who have shaped it for generations,” said Tom Donahue, founder and CEO of True North Companies, owner of Kiahuna. “Our ownership group sought a partner committed to community, sustainability, best-in-class hospitality, and elevating the playing experience, all while honoring Kauaʻi’s heritage. Troon shares that vision. Together, we aim to position Kiahuna as a standout daily-fee golf experience and a valued member of the community.”

In addition to the beautiful golf course, Kiahuna includes an expansive practice area and a clubhouse with a well-appointed golf shop and Paco’s Tacos Cantina. The 144-acre property originally opened in 1984, then was rebuilt in 1992 after being damaged by Hurricane Iniki.

“Kiahuna embodies 18-holes of Aloha, which are enriched by cultural landmarks such as ancient heiau and historic plantation remnants,” said Troon Director of Operations – Hawaii, Melissa Dupuis. “We feel great gratitude and responsibility in beginning management of Kiahuna. We are committed to improving the guest experience, investing in sustainability and strengthening our connection with the island community.”

For more information on Kiahuna Golf Club, visit www.kiahunagolf.com or call 808-742-9595.

FootJoy Launches Exclusive Legends Series Collection

The assortment of limited edition footwear is designed to celebrate golf’s most iconic moments

Greatness isn’t given. It’s earned on golf’s grandest stages. In 2026, walk in the footsteps of modern legends and take part in golf’s storied legacy with Legends Series, featuring limited releases that draw inspiration from world-class designers and their love for the game. 

This exclusive collection of Premiere Series golf shoes will showcase three separate product drops, with each release thoughtfully designed and inspired by unique elements of major championship locales. Premiere Series remains the leader in modern classic golf footwear for the ideal combination of modern performance and classic silhouettes. It is the preferred choice for more Tour players than any other shoe. 

The first drop of Legends Series takes us to Philadelphia — a city defined by craftsmanship, conviction and an enduring symbol of independence. Philadelphia represents a living legacy: rooted in tradition and authenticity, yet continually shaping the modern era. From cobblestone streets to modernized championship venues, its past is not preserved in museums alone — it lives, evolves, and pushes us forward.

Packard & Marquis 1776 are grounded in premium grey and white hand-selected leathers selected to honor the structures that stand as quiet reminders of the birthplace of America. Respecting where the game has been and setting the tone for where it is going. To mark the moment, subtle patriotic detailing lines these styles to honor the nations upcoming 250th birthday.

The shoe is supercharged for today’s player with the new ARCTrax outsole technology, delivering more Tour-level traction and stability on any surface, in any condition. This new anti-channeling design and the flex-promoting concentric circles optimize ground forces to help deliver power through the golf swing. 

The first drop is available in two timeless upper silhouettes - Premiere Series Packard and Premiere Series Marquis - beginning Tuesday, May 12 on footjoy.com and at select retailers, while supplies last. 

Additional drops from the Legends Series collection are scheduled for release in June and July 2026, each celebrating a defining moment in the game of golf.  

Learn more at www.footjoy.com and follow @footjoy on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

Coeur d'Alene Casino Spa Celebrates 15th Anniversary Throughout May

Golf resort guests are gifted surprise presents commemorating award-winning amenity’s milestone  

(WORLEY, Idaho) – Given that golfers cannot live by the game alone – although it’s tempting to try when the course being played is Circling Raven Golf Club – and a stress-free body produces smoother swings, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel is ideally suited to help players rejuvenate and enhance their rounds. This is particularly true this month when in recognition of its 15th anniversary, Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel’s Spa Ssakwa’q’n (pronounced Sock-wah-kin) is thanking customers with value-added giveaways.

“Our spa is designed to help our guests relax and refresh themselves, and we’re grateful for having the opportunity to help them do so for 15 years,” said Laura Penney, CEO, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel.

“Giving them tokens of our gratitude continues our commitment to their well-being.”

Following a spa service, guests can choose an envelope to reveal one of the following gifts: $15 Off Services, $15 Extra Play Cash in Casino, Retail Savings, Sweet Treats, or Grab Bags. One lucky winner will win the grand-prize basket. The offer is available May 1st to May 31st, 2026, and not valid with any other offers or discounts (while supplies last). Consult the spa for complete details.

Spa Ssakwa’q’n earned its reputation as a premier wellness destination, offering a harmonious blend of advanced technology and serene luxury in one of the region’s largest spas (15,000 square feet). Providing a variety of rejuvenating experiences – facials, massages, pedicures, manicures and body treatments – the spa serves guests’ relaxation needs. The trained and experienced staff enable guests to eliminate stress and relax mind and body.

The spa is open 7 days a week. Call 1-855-232-2772 to book appointments, or visit cdacasino.com.