Escalante Golf Acquires World-Class Mountain Golf Community, Tumble Creek

Gated Enclave Adjacent To Suncadia Resort Includes Tom Doak-Designed Golf Course, Hart Howerton-Designed Clubhouse, Luxury Homesites for Development

(FORT WORTH, Texas) – Escalante Golf – a boutique owner and operator of luxury golf properties nationwide – has acquired its 27th property, Tumble Creek, in Cle Elum, Washington.

Adjacent to the renowned Suncadia resort, Tumble Creek is a private, gated residential golf community situated approximately 80 miles from Seattle via Interstate 90. Given its location on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, the Cle Elum region is sunnier and drier than the Seattle metro area, making it a sought-after recreational retreat. Outdoor activities like golf, skiing, fishing, kayaking, hiking and wine tasting are noteworthy attractions.

As part of the acquisition, Escalante Golf assumes ownership of the club, golf course and remaining real estate within the community; this includes approximately 330 homesites still available for development. Current Tumble Creek members will continue to enjoy access to the club and Suncadia’s resort amenities, including its two 18-hole championship courses.

Designed by acclaimed architect Tom Doak, the Tumble Creek golf course opened in 2006 and features many of the characteristics that have made Doak one of the most respected designers in the game. Its player-friendly experience appeals to a wide range of golfers, with well-placed bunkers and penalty areas presenting a greater challenge for more skilled players from the championship tees. Golf Digest ranked Tumble Creek No. 5 in its 2025-26 list of the Best Courses in Washington, while Golfweek named it the state’s No. 3 private golf course.

With the golf course entering its third decade of play, Escalante plans several golf course enhancement projects that will improve day-to-day playability and maintenance, and create a foundation for long-term agronomic excellence. Updates to the club’s fitness area, which is located in the community’s original clubhouse, are also planned.

Tumble Creek’s current clubhouse experience is anchored by a spectacular 17,000-square-foot facility designed inside and out by celebrated architecture and design firm Hart Howerton. Opened in 2019, the mountain-inspired Great House serves as the social heart of the community, offering indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, dining establishments and panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade landscape. Family-oriented amenities – including bowling lanes, a golf simulator, casual recreation areas and spaces for year-round programming – reinforce its role as a central hub for members and residents.

“Tumble Creek has always been something special, a place where world-class golf, a stunning mountain setting and a genuine sense of community come together,” said Mark Thorne, Managing Director of Suncadia. “We’ve watched it grow into one of the premier private golf communities in the Pacific Northwest, and we couldn’t be more pleased to see it pass into the hands of an owner who shares that commitment to quality. Escalante Golf has a proven track record of preserving what makes these properties exceptional while investing thoughtfully for the future, which makes them exactly the right next steward for Tumble Creek.”

“We’re strongly committed to maintaining Tumble Creek as a world-class golf and residential community,” said David McDonald, President, Escalante Golf. “This is an exceptional property with a beautiful golf course, an incredible clubhouse and a passionate membership. Our focus will be on preserving the high standards that already exist here and continuing to enhance the experience for members and residents.”

The acquisition of Tumble Creek marks Escalante’s expansion into an 18th state. The team enjoys familiarity with the Pacific Northwest through its 2015 purchase of Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in North Plains, Oregon, 25 minutes northwest of Portland.

“Entering the Washington market is especially meaningful to me personally,” McDonald added. “I have family roots in Yakima, so this region has always been close to my heart. We’re excited to bring Escalante’s approach to member-focused service and high-quality golf experiences to Tumble Creek.”

For more information about membership at Tumble Creek, visit www.tumblecreekclub.com.

Hawai‘i Golf Courses Unite To Launch Play Hawai‘i Golf Initiative

Kapalua Plantaion

(HONOLULU, HAWAI‘I) – Twelve premier resort golf facilities across Hawai‘i have collaborated to launch Play Hawai‘i Golf, a unified initiative aimed at elevating the state's status as a top global golf destination and supporting local communities.

This alliance seeks to enhance Hawai‘i's appeal to golf and resort travelers, ensuring the state remains prominent in the minds of golfers worldwide. Additionally, Play Hawai‘i Golf will also be focused on philanthropy and supporting local junior golf efforts with plans to donate back to Hawaii junior golf programs.

“With more than more than 70 golf courses featuring dramatic Pacific Ocean backdrops, fairways carved through volcanic rock, and lush tropical greenery, Hawai‘i is one of the world's top golf destinations,” said Kapalua Golf General Manager Alex Nakajima. “Recent decisions by the PGA TOUR and the state legislature could result in negative impacts on the Hawai‘i golf community and the state’s economy. Play Hawai‘i Golf was formed to promote this incredible golf destination, our courses and all the good golf does for the Aloha State.”

The founding members include Mauna Lani Golf, Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf, and Mauna Kea Golf Course on Hawai‘i Island; Po‘ipū Bay Golf Course, Princeville Makai Golf Club, and the Ocean Course at Hōkūala on Kaua‘i; Manele Golf Course on Lana‘i; Kapalua Golf, Ka‘anapali Golf Courses, and Wailea Golf Club on Maui; and Ko Olina Golf Club and Turtle Bay Golf Course on Oahu.

Poipu Bay

Play Hawai‘i Golf will be promoted through a comprehensive marketing strategy, including digital campaigns, public relations efforts, influencer partnerships, broadcast media, events, and traditional marketing channels. Play Hawai‘i Golf partners will fund initiatives through annual contributions and from allied supporting partners. The Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) is supporting the partners in 2026 by funding content capture and broadcast production for the group's television, digital storytelling, and paid social media efforts, helping bring Hawaiʻi's golf offerings to a national audience. HVCB's robust support reflects a broader, strategic partnership in the years ahead.

The golf industry is a significant economic driver for Hawai‘i, contributing an estimated $3.4 billion annually to the state's economy through direct, indirect, and induced impacts. Golf tourism and related retail spending generate over $1 billion per year, underscoring the sport's vital role in Hawai‘i's visitor economy. Operational spending of $393 million, encompassing facilities and capital investments, supports numerous jobs and stimulates local businesses, including suppliers, service providers, and the hospitality sector.

Beyond its economic contributions, golf offers substantial health benefits for Kama‘aina (Hawai‘i residents) and visitors. Engaging in the sport can improve cardiovascular health, enhance strength, balance, and mobility, and support cognitive function. The social and outdoor aspects of golf also contribute to improved mental well-being by reducing stress and promoting long-term mental health.

For course and tee time information, visit www.PlayHawaiiGolf.com.

World Tour Golf Links to Open The Bridge, Bringing a New Golf Entertainment Experience to Myrtle Beach

(MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.) — Golf has evolved beyond just what happens on the course, and World Tour Golf Links is embracing that evolution with the opening of The Bridge, a state-of-the-art 16-bay Toptracer range that combines game improvement, entertainment, and social experiences.

The Bridge will celebrate its grand opening July 11, introducing golfers and non-golfers alike to the game’s premier ball-tracking technology. Every shot is captured in real time, providing instant feedback on distance, ball speed, launch angle, shot shape, and more, allowing players of every skill level to practice with greater purpose.

But The Bridge is designed to be much more than a practice facility.

Players can compete in interactive games, challenge friends in closest-to-the-pin contests or play virtual rounds on some of the world's most famous courses. Whether stopping by before a round, spending an evening with friends, or introducing someone to golf for the first time, The Bridge offers a welcoming environment that blends technology with fun.

"We wanted to create more than just another driving range," said Shane Peters, World Tour’s head golf professional. "The Bridge is a place where golfers can improve, families can spend time together, friends can enjoy a night out, and people who have never picked up a club can discover just how much fun golf can be."

The addition also enhances instruction and player development. Andrew Cheek, World Tour’s head teaching professional, can use Toptracer's detailed shot data to improve lessons, while beginners and junior golfers benefit from immediate feedback that helps accelerate learning.

Beyond practice, The Bridge will serve as a gathering place for group outings, birthday celebrations, corporate events, leagues, and casual get-togethers. The combination of golf, friendly competition, and interactive entertainment creates an appeal that extends well beyond traditional golfers.

For nearly three decades, World Tour Golf Links has offered players the opportunity to play versions of many of the game's most iconic holes, creating one of Myrtle Beach's most distinctive experiences. The opening of The Bridge reflects the facility's continued commitment to providing innovative ways for people to enjoy the game while welcoming new audiences to golf.

"The game continues to evolve, and golfers are looking for experiences that are both enjoyable and engaging," Peters said. "The Bridge allows us to serve golfers looking to improve while also creating an environment where anyone can come out, have fun, and experience the game."

For more information about The Bridge or to reserve a hitting bay, visit TopTracerMyrtleBeach.com.

TRUE Expands Antigravity Collection with Three Performance Models

(Tacoma, Washington) – TRUE linkswear (TRUE), creator of ultra-comfortable, modern golf footwear designed for walking on and off the course, continues to expand its Antigravity collection, giving golfers three distinct performance options built on the brand's most advanced footwear platform. Leading the lineup is the Antigravity Pro, a tour-caliber model engineered for players seeking maximum traction, stability and all-weather performance.

The Antigravity Pro pairs TRUE's responsive Pebax® Superfoam midsole with an aggressive TPU outsole featuring integrated spikes, a premium TRUEdura laminated waterproof upper backed by a two-year waterproof warranty, a full-length Nylon Speedboard and an innovative bathtub midsole design to deliver confidence from the first tee to the final putt. ($225, Colors - Glacier White, Glacier Grey, Classic Black)

Joining the lineup is the NEW Antigravity Leather, which blends premium full-grain Napa leather and suede detailing with the same responsive Pebax® cushioning for golfers looking for elevated style and comfort on and off the course. Rounding out the collection is the original Antigravity, featuring a durable ripstop upper, versatile on- and off-course tread, and the lightweight performance that launched the platform. (Leather: $225, Colors - Glacier White, Grey, Black. Original: $199, Colors - Sunset, Fade to Grey, Glacier Navy, Cloud White and available in women’s)

Whether golfers prioritize tour-level performance, premium leather styling, or everyday versatility, the expanded Antigravity family offers an option for every style of play. For more information, visit the website for additional specs.

The Country Club of North Carolina Readies for National Father-Son Invitational

(PINEHURST, N.C.) – John Long and Jeffrey Long, of Murrells Inlet, S.C. are vying for their sixth consecutive division title at the 57th edition of the National Father-Son Invitational at The Country Club of North Carolina’s Cardinal and Dogwood Courses on July 10-12.

The Longs won the 2021 Senior Division and have claimed four straight Super Senior Divisions (2022-2025), which is a tournament record for a single division.

Notable past winners of the National Father-Son Invitational, conducted annually by CCNC, that began in 1970, include Tom and Tom Kite, Jr; Arthur and Scott Hoch; Rod and Steve Spittle; and Kelly and Blair Miller.

The tournament was conceived by Dale Morey, a CCNC member and a noted amateur player who was also a basketball All-American at LSU. He won the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship in 1974 and 1977. 

The field consists of 41 teams from 10 states (Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia). 

The format for the 57th Invitational consists of three flights, all gross – Championship, Senior (Fathers must be 55 or older), Super Senior (Fathers must be 70 or older). The scoring format is better ball of each team for the first two rounds from division-designated tees (July 10-11) and then combined score on the event’s final day (July 12). The Dogwood Course will be used on July 10 and 12 and the Cardinal Course on July 11. 

The complete field list by division follows. Past champions (regardless of division) are indicated in bold italics (with specific championships and year).

Championship Division (16 entries)

Patrick Amburgey & Eli Amburgey, Charleston, W.Va.

Justin Bode & Jackson Bode, Pinehurst, N.C. – 2021, 2022, 2023 Championship Division

Jason Brewer & Beau Brewer, Dexter, Mich.

Chad Dollander & Bear Dollander, Savannah, Ga. 

Mark Donnelly & Landon Donnelly, Houston, Texas 

Kevin Halligan & Colin Halligan, Savannah, Ga.

Kevin Halligan & Sean Halligan, Savannah, Ga. 

Rodney Hill & Cody Hill Clemmons, N.C.

Darrin Hotts & Jack Hotts, Troy, Mich. 

Jason Lina & Brady Lina, Alpharetta, Ga. -- 2024 Championship Division

Larry Lis & Austin Lis, Avella, Pa. 

John Maniaci & Joey Maniaci, Rochester, Mich. 

Michael Pricer & Brandon Pricer 

Chris Templeton & Christopher Templeton, St. Simon's Island, Ga. 

Paul Threlkeld & Hamp Threlkeld, Savannah, Ga. 

Tad Tomblin & Nik Tomblin, Alum Creek, W.Va.

Senior Division (13 entries)

Andy Andrews & Bo Andrews, Raleigh, N.C. – 2023 Senior Division

Kevin Bentley & Mark Bentley, Wake Forest, N.C. 

Steve Berry & Chris Berry, Jackson Springs, N.C. 

Steve Berry & Matthew Berry, Jackson Springs, N.C. 

Steve Berry & Thomas Berry, Jackson Springs, N.C. 

Moore Councill & Jack Councill, Pinehurst, N.C. 

Thaddeus Grzywacz & Brandon Grzywacz, Pinebluff, N.C. 

Alex Moore & John Moore, Dallas, Texas 

Howard Peterson III & Howard Peterson IV, Weirton, W.Va.

Jason Radtke & Zachary Radtke, Dublin, Ohio 

Thomas Rogers & Ryan Rogers, Raleigh, N.C. 

LD Simmons & Andy Simmons, Charlotte, N.C. 

Chuck Tickle & Chase Tickle, Raleigh, N.C. -- 2016 Championship Division, 2025 Senior Division

Super Senior Division (12 entries)

Ben Brundred III & John Brundred, Potomac, Md. 

Peter Cook & Robbie Whiteside, Anderson, S.C. 

Jack Gornall & Andy Gornall, Erie, Pa. 

Charles Green III & Charles Green IV, Bristol, Va. 

Charles Green III & Garland Green, Bristol, Va. 

Charles Kane & Drake Kane, Raleigh, N.C. 

John Long & Jeffrey Long, Murrells Inlet, S.C. -- 2021 Senior Division, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Super Senior Division

James Martin & Wes Martin, Dallas, Texas -- 2020 Super Senior Division

Frank Puckett & Mike Puckett, Southern Pines, N.C.

Frank Puckett & Todd Puckett, Southern Pines, N.C. 

David Reutinger & Colin Reutinger, Southern Pines, N.C. 

Cliff Seastrunk & Jason Seastrunk, Raleigh, N.C. -- 2018, 2021 Super Senior Division

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club Earns Place Among Golfweek's Top 100 Public-Access Courses in America

(PAWLEYS ISLAND, S.C.) — Caledonia Golf & Fish Club has once again been recognized among America's premier layouts, earning a place on Golfweek's prestigious list of the Top 100 Public-Access Courses in the United States. The annual ranking celebrates the nation's finest daily-fee courses, reinforcing Caledonia's standing as a bucket-list destination.

Designed by the late Mike Strantz and opened in 1994, Caledonia is one of the game's most celebrated modern designs. Framed by centuries-old live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, the Lowcountry layout blends strategic shot-making with unforgettable scenery, culminating with one of South Carolina’s most recognizable finishing holes, a par 4 along the Waccamaw River.

Golfweek's Best rankings are determined by a nationwide panel of course evaluators who assess layouts on factors including routing, conditioning, memorability, variety, strategy, and overall design quality.

"To be recognized among the nation's top 100 public golf courses is an honor that reflects the timeless vision Mike Strantz had for Caledonia," said Bart Romano, PGA, Director of Operations at Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. "Our team is committed to preserving that vision while delivering the type of experience that keeps golfers coming back year after year.”

The latest accolade adds to an already distinguished résumé for Caledonia, which is the Myrtle Beach area’s highest ranked course. The layout has long been recognized among America's finest public designs and continues to receive acclaim from golfers and national publications alike for its architecture, conditioning, and unforgettable setting.

Located in the heart of the Hammock Coast, Caledonia is built on the site of a historic rice plantation. The course is renowned for its intimate scale, distinctive bunkering, immaculate conditioning, and thoughtful use of the property's natural beauty. From the iconic oak-lined entrance to the clubhouse overlooking the 18th green, every detail contributes to an atmosphere that has made Caledonia one of the country's most beloved public courses.

For more information or to book a tee time, visit www.caledoniagolfandfishclub.com.

The Quiet Growth of Municipal Golf

(RELEASE) — As the U.S. golf market has experienced a supply correction over the past two decades – with a net reduction of more than 2,000 golf courses – there’s quietly been a curious trend: a slow, upward climb in the municipal golf space.

Dating back to 2006, the number of municipally owned and operated golf courses has increased by 7% while the two other ownership segments (daily fee public courses and private clubs) have undergone notable contraction.

At the start of this year, there were nearly 3,000 municipal golf courses at over 2,600 facilities, the highest totals on record.

This muni momentum predates the pandemic. And it isn’t the byproduct of states, counties or cities building new courses. In fact, the last new 18-hole, regulation-length municipal golf course built in the U.S. from the ground up – and unaffiliated with a resort or entity beyond the local municipality – opened in 2023.

Conversions instead are the primary contributor, with municipalities acquiring former private or daily fee public courses. Over the past decade alone, hundreds of private and daily fee public courses have re-classified as municipal properties, with cities or counties adding them to their recreation or park programs.

The first municipal golf course opened in New York in 1895. Not long after the game arrived in the U.S., municipalities first became involved in the golf business to provide an affordable recreation amenity to residents.

Municipal golf today is serving the same purpose it did more than a century ago — providing affordable, accessible golf to local communities. The difference is that many municipalities have been (and are) expanding their golf footprints while the broader market has shrunk.

While some communities will continue to evaluate the role of golf within their broader parks and recreation systems, others are moving in the opposite direction — acquiring facilities, preserving green space, and ensuring affordable access to the game for future generations.

Municipalities still face significant challenges when it comes to golf courses, perhaps most notably aging infrastructure – from irrigation and the courses themselves to clubhouses. Almost 70% of muni facilities in the NGF database are more than 50 years old. There’s also maintenance and labor demands, capital reinvestment and rising customer expectations.

Despite challenges in some areas, municipal golf is in an unprecedented place.

During a 20-year period when overall golf course supply has contracted by almost 13%, municipal golf has quietly become one of the game’s most important stewards.

And NGF, the industry’s foremost expert on the municipal space for decades, is currently working on a comprehensive study on the municipal side of the game – from its history and benefits to its economics. We live it and we’ll continue to study it. Stay tuned.