Boyne Golf’s Bernie Friedrich receives Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award

A golf career that spans 50+ years in Michigan earns its highest honor from the MGCA

(Harbor Springs, MI) — Bernie Friedrich, Director of Golf Course Renovation and Development for BOYNE Resorts, has been named the winner of the 2026 Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award by the Michigan Golf Course Association (MGCA). 

Bernie Friedrich

Friedrich will be honored at the Annual MGCA Awards Banquet on Tuesday, Dec. 1, during the 2026 Michigan Golf Business Conference and Vendor Fair at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant. 

The Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded to an individual or organization that, over a lifetime, has provided steadfast leadership, outstanding service, and continuous commitment to the Michigan golf industry.

“I’m humbled and honored to receive the Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Friedrich. “I’ve been fortunate to spend my career in an industry and a state I love, surrounded by incredible people who make this work so rewarding. This recognition belongs to every colleague, mentor and teammate who helped along the way. Boyne Resorts and Michigan golf have given me so much, and I’m grateful for the chance to give some of it back.”

Friedrich began his career with BOYNE 50 years ago, embodying company founder Everett Kircher’s philosophy of developing year-round employees capable of leading both golf and ski operations. A 45-year PGA of America member, Friedrich has overseen BOYNE’s 14 golf courses and semi-private clubs across Michigan, Maine and Montana, managing golf operations, staffing, agronomy, marketing, memberships, and retail operations. Now serving as director of golf course renovation and development, he continues to help shape the future of golf experiences at one of North America’s largest golf and ski resort operations.

Friedrich’s contributions to the game have earned him numerous honors, including the MGCA Lyle Leeke Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and induction into both the Michigan PGA Hall of Fame and Michigan Golf Hall of Fame. He has also served on the MGCA Board of Directors, held committee roles with the Michigan Section PGA, and received two Michigan PGA Golf Professional of the Year awards. In 2023, the PGA of America recognized Friedrich with its prestigious PGA Golf Executive of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, vision and service to the game.

“Boyne Resorts is built on our people, and for 50 years Bernie has been the best example of what that means,” said Stephen Kircher, President and CEO of Boyne Resorts. “He has developed talent, led with integrity and cared deeply about our guests, our teams and the communities we serve. His impact reaches well beyond our 14 golf courses, from the golf professionals he’s mentored to the young people who’ve benefited from The First Tee and the Harbor Cup Fund. There is no one more deserving of this honor, and we’re proud to call him one of our own.”

Friedrich’s most rewarding achievement has been the charitable efforts he implemented, which BOYNE Golf’s PGA professionals continue to carry out. He is a founding member and board member of The First Tee of Northern Michigan and is a co-founder of Harbor Cup Fund, a Michigan-based charitable fund that has raised more than $1 million since its 1997 inception.

GolfN Welcomes G/FORE as Retail Partner, Making the Brand’s Premium Footwear, Apparel Available for GolfN Rewards Redemption

G/FORE joins leading equipment and apparel brands in GolfN’s rewards-driven Pro Shop.

(MERRILLVILLE, Ind.) – GolfN, the innovative golf rewards platform and digital caddie app that pays golfers to play, proudly announces that luxury lifestyle brand and golf footwear innovator G/FORE is the newest retail partner that can be found in the growing rewards-redemption Pro Shop found on GolfN’s highly rated mobile app.

“We’re extremely pleased to welcome G/FORE as a retail partner and we’re just as excited to report their golf shoes and apparel have been an instant hit in the GolfN Pro Shop,” Co-founder and CEO Jared Phillips said. “We’re proud of every single brand we work with because we take a strategic approach to offering our members the golf items they truly want when it comes time to redeem their GolfN points or just purchase from a trusted brand. G/FORE makes some of the industry’s most trendsetting men’s and women’s product lines that bring a distinctive style and functionality to the golf fashion game and golfers really love their products.”

G/FORE is a luxury golf footwear, apparel and accessories brand. Founded in 2011 in Beverly Hills, Calif., its long-running tagline is “disruptive luxury.” Popular G/FORE golf shoe models like the MG4+, the MG4X2, the Gallivanter, the Gallivan2r Longwing, and the women’s lace-free G/DRIVE. G/FORE was the first golf shoe brand to introduce removable, washable massaging insoles. In apparel, the Tour 5 Pocket trousers are lightweight, breathable, stretchy and comfortable, and its jackets, polos and caps (such as the Wreath Trucker) remain staples for well-dressed golfers. G/FORE makes golf fashion feel edgy and modern, with bold colors and street-style design in place of traditional looks.

The golf community’s first true rewards app, GolfN allows members to redeem points they accrue by playing rounds with the GolfN mobile app engaged – with or without its dynamic GPS yardage and digital caddie mode engaged. Additionally, the 4.5-Star-rated app’s Daily Grind feature rewards users points toward golf merchandise for everyday things like practicing at the driving range, the indoor golf venue, local Tour event, visit to the golf retail store, or almost any golf-related activity.

With the incentive to redeem top-tier golf merchandise from leading L.A.B. Golf, Miura, Cobra Golf, Bettinardi Golf, Srixon, and Cleveland Golf, Vessel, Holderness & Bourne, and TRUE linkswear, GolfN users are taking the credit card rewards model and cashing in on points earned from doing the things they love doing the most.

Since the GolfN app launched in 2025, more than 200,000 rounds have been tracked by members engaging with the in-round scoring, GPS, and social features. An Apple Watch version of the GolfN app is in development and is expected to be in the App Store in late 2026.

The GolfN app is free to use, ensuring that any golfer can begin earning immediately. For those seeking to accelerate their rewards, GolfN offers optional membership tiers that provide points multipliers and enhanced earning potential — without compromising the core free experience.

As GolfN continues to scale, its mission remains clear: to make every round more rewarding, every golfer more engaged, and every moment connected to the game more valuable. The app is available to golfers everywhere in Apple and Android versions.

Learn more at GolfN.com.

ROKFORM Launches Rangefinder 18X: The Rangefinder That Stays Put, Sees More, and Is Hard to Lose

Featuring up to 3X stronger magnetic holding power, built-in Apple Find My and Google Find Hub tracking, and adjustable 8X–18X magnification.

(IRVINE, Calif.) – ROKFORM today announced the launch of the Rangefinder 18X, a premium golf laser rangefinder designed to solve three common frustrations: rangefinders falling off golf carts, getting lost, and struggling to clearly see distant targets.

At the heart of the Rangefinder 18X is ROKFORM’s MAGMAX™ magnetic technology, delivering up to 18.5 pounds of holding force — more than three times the strength of leading competitors failing at six pounds. Whether driving over bumpy cart paths, or navigating rough terrain, the Rangefinder 18X is built to stay securely attached to the golf cart.

“We spent two years developing the Rangefinder 18X, and I personally lost two expensive rangefinders we purchased during testing,” said Jeff Whitten, ROKFORM CEO. “The reality is, when you leave a nice rangefinder behind, there’s a good chance you’re not getting it back. We wanted to solve that problem with incredibly strong magnets and built-in tracking. We also wanted more magnification because I like knowing exactly where the flag is, and being able to spot my bad shots is also a great bonus.”

The Rangefinder 18X features adjustable 8X to 18X magnification, providing exceptional visibility for identifying flags, hazards, and distant landmarks. It measures distances up to 1,200 yards, vibrates when locked onto the flag, and includes a slope switch that can be disabled for tournament play.

Built-in Apple Find My and Google Find Hub compatibility adds another layer of protection, allowing golfers to locate a misplaced rangefinder using their smartphone even from miles away. Unlike rechargeable rangefinders, the Rangefinder 18X uses a replaceable CR2 battery. Golfers can keep a spare in their bag and swap it in seconds, eliminating the frustration of a dead rechargeable battery in the middle of a round.

Weighing 16.2 ounces, the Rangefinder 18X is intentionally more substantial than many conventional rangefinders, prioritizing powerful optics, exceptional magnetic strength, and rugged construction over minimum size and weight. Its IP54-rated housing provides protection against dust and rain.

The ROKFORM Rangefinder 18X is available now for $499.99 at rokform.com.

Book Review: Golf’s Ultimate Guide to Respectable Cheating Is a Must-Read for Weekend Golfers

Finally, a golf instruction book that teaches you everything you need to know about lowering your score without actually improving your game.

Let’s be honest. We’ve all been there. You hit one into the woods, take a mulligan off the first tee, improve your lie just a little (or a lot), and somehow walk off the 18th green with a score that looks considerably better than the round you actually played.

Sound familiar? Then have I got a book for you. Golf’s Ultimate Guide to Respectable Cheating, written by Mark Goldman, Ross Greenburg, and Michael Greenburg, is an absolute treat for anyone who enjoys golf but doesn’t necessarily enjoy being held accountable for every shot.

This isn’t your typical golf instruction book. You won’t find swing tips from Butch Harmon, putting secrets from Dave Pelz or advice on how to add 20 yards to your driver. Instead, this illustrated guide tackles the real challenges facing recreational golfers: How do you properly justify a mulligan? When is a putt officially a gimme? And what’s the appropriate procedure when your ball disappears into the woods and you suddenly remember you have a dinner reservation?

The authors have answers for all of it.

The book introduces readers to the philosophy of Respectable Cheating, including such essential concepts as the Mullie, Point of Entry, Safety Drops, strategic amnesia and the ever-important scorecard pencil equipped with an eraser.

There’s even guidance on club slamming and other forms of emotional maintenance. Because occasionally, a golfer needs to express himself without causing permanent damage to an expensive piece of equipment.

What makes this book particularly enjoyable is its recognition of something every weekend golfer understands: Golf is supposed to be fun. Sure, the official rules matter, and nobody is suggesting you bring these philosophies to the U.S. Open. But when you’re playing with friends on a Saturday morning, sometimes preserving the group’s happiness is more important than accurately documenting that seventh shot from the bunker.

And that’s the beauty of this book.

It’s a quick, easy and thoroughly enjoyable read, filled with humor, illustrations and plenty of situations that will make you think about your own questionable decisions on the golf course. You’ll probably recognize yourself, your regular playing partners or that one buddy who somehow manages to shoot 82 despite spending half the round in the woods.

My verdict? Give this book a mulligan-free five stars.

Golf’s Ultimate Guide to Respectable Cheating would make a terrific gift for your regular foursome, golf buddies, dads, husbands, grandfathers or anyone who has ever uttered the immortal words, “That one didn’t count.”

It’s also a great conversation starter for the next golf trip. Just don’t be surprised if everyone suddenly has a much better understanding of the rules.

After all, the official rules protect the game. These rules protect the people playing it.

How to Get Your Copy

Ready to improve your golf game without changing your swing? You can order Golf’s Ultimate Guide to Respectable Cheating in Kindle and other available formats.

Visit the official website at www.golfrespectablecheating.com to learn more about the book and find ordering information.

My advice? Pick up a copy for yourself and another for your favorite golf buddy. Just make sure you agree on the rules before your next round.

Your scorecard might never be the same.

The Experience Golf Combines Premium Ryder Cup Packages With Iconic Tee Times

Official Tour Operator unveils three premium packages combining admission to golf’s greatest team event with rounds at some of the UK and Ireland’s most celebrated courses

(ST ANDREWS, Scotland) — As the Ryder Cup celebrates its centenary in 2027, The Experience Golf, an Official Tour Operator for the event, is offering golf enthusiasts the opportunity to combine official tournament admission with rounds at some of the most iconic courses in Ireland.

Three premium packages are now available, bringing together the excitement of golf’s greatest team event at Adare Manor, County Limerick, with the chance to play some of the sport’s most celebrated courses.

The three itineraries feature a choice of destinations, including Dublin, Northern Ireland and Southwest Ireland, with each package combining tournament admission, accommodation, championship golf and travel arrangements.

The packages include:

2027 Ryder Cup Eight-Night Tour with Golf in Dublin: Running from 12-20 September 2027, this package includes eight nights, four rounds of golf and two days’ admission to the Ryder Cup, from £12,730 per person. Combining championship golf with one of sport's greatest spectacles, guests will play Royal Dublin, Portmarnock, Brittas Bay (formerly the European Club) and Killarney (Killeen Course) before attending the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.

2027 Ryder Cup Nine-Night Tour with Golf in Northern Ireland: Running from 11-20 September 2027, this nine-night itinerary pairs world-class golf on Northern Ireland's celebrated Causeway Coast, including Royal Portrush (Valley and Dunluce courses) and Portstewart, with four days at the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. From £12,558 per person, the experience combines iconic links golf with the unrivalled atmosphere of golf's greatest team event.

2027 Ryder Cup 8-Night Tour with Golf in Southwest Ireland: Running from 12-20 September 2027, this extended itinerary includes eight nights, three rounds of golf and three days’ admission to the Ryder Cup, from £12,714 per person. The itinerary features golf at Dooks Golf Club, Dingle Golf Links and the renowned Tralee Golf Club, where Arnold Palmer famously declared, "I may have designed the first nine, but surely God designed the back nine."

Packages also include luxury accommodation, daily breakfast, clubhouse lunches on golf days, selected group dinners, transfers to the tournament and golf courses, sightseeing experiences and dedicated support from The Experience Golf team.

Richard Payne, Director of Commercial Strategy and Golf at Lyvera Group, said: “The Ryder Cup is one of the most sought-after experiences in world golf, and we wanted to create packages that allow guests to make the most of their time in Ireland and beyond. 

“By combining access to the biennial event with rounds at some of the game’s most iconic courses, we can offer a truly memorable golf trip that brings together world-class sport, exceptional golf and outstanding hospitality,” he added.

The Experience Golf specializes in curated golf tours across the UK and Ireland and is the longest-standing authorized provider of Old Course tee times through the St Andrews Links Trust. Its Ryder Cup packages build on this expertise, bringing together access to major golf events with exceptional courses and carefully planned travel experiences.

The 2027 Ryder Cup marks the 100th anniversary of the tournament, which was first staged at the Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts, USA in 1927.  It takes place from 17-19 September at Adare Manor, Ireland, with Europe and the United States set to compete in one of the most anticipated events on the sporting calendar.

To explore the packages and find out more, visit www.theexperiencegolf.com/uk/golf-tournaments/the-ryder-cup/.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection, to Unveil New and Enhanced Golf Amenities This December

More than $4 million investment introduces Hawai‘i Island’s first Toptracer-powered driving range, a new 18-hole putting course and a refreshed retail space

(Kohala Coast, Hawai‘i) – Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection will unveil a new era of island golf this December, reinforcing its position as a leading luxury golf destination through a distinctive blend of advanced technology, expert instruction, social play and island hospitality for golfers of every level. The more than $4 million investment includes The Bays, Hawaiʻi Island’s first Toptracer-powered driving range; The Wave, a new 18-hole putting course; a refreshed retail experience; and The Academy, a dedicated instruction program offering personalized lessons and clinics led by nationally recognized golf professionals.

Designed for serious practice and social play, The Bays will reimagine the resort’s driving range with solar-powered Toptracer technology, 16 covered hitting areas, comfortable group seating, music and food and beverage service. The lively setting will welcome golfers and non-golfers alike while also serving as a versatile venue for group outings, meetings, receptions and custom activations. The Academy will deliver personalized instruction directly within The Bays, pairing expert coaching with immediate Toptracer feedback to help golfers refine their game. Together, The Bays and The Academy will combine advanced technology, professional instruction and elevated hospitality to create a first-of-its-kind golf and gathering experience on Hawaiʻi Island.

Spanning more than 50,000 square feet, The Wave will offer a new 18-hole putting course designed to bring together skill, strategy and playful competition. Its rolling contours, inspired by the movement of the Pacific, create an engaging and approachable experience for guests while providing a dynamic setting for concerts, receptions and private events. The refreshed clubhouse and retail space will complement the resort’s contemporary island style with modern comforts and an elevated shopping experience. A redesigned entryway will create a welcoming sense of arrival for resort guests, visiting golfers and kamaʻāina.

“Golf has long been part of the Mauna Lani experience, and these enhancements create even more ways for guests to enjoy their time here,” said Pete Alles, General Manager of Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection. “With The Bays and The Wave, guests can take a lesson, enjoy a friendly competition or simply spend time together. Alongside our ocean, dining and cultural experiences, they offer another reason to visit and a new way to shape a stay at Mauna Lani.”

Set amid ancient lava fields, kiawe forests and the dramatic Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani’s golf experience continues to evolve with these new experiences complementing the award-winning North and South Courses and the family-friendly, nine-hole Wikiwiki Course.

For more information about Mauna Lani Golf and its forthcoming experiences, visit Mauna Lani Golf.

Circling Raven Caps 2026 Season on High Note

With acclaimed 18-hole course closed for year, Indoor Golf Suites beckon

(Worley, Idaho) – Among several 2026 season objectives, Circling Raven Director of Golf Don Rasmussen included increasing the number of women playing the award-winning golf course, mirroring the national trend of female golfers being one of the fastest-growing segments.

Having recently shuttered the course for winter and with the final numbers tallied, Rasmussen reports that the strategic plan was successful. More women played Circling Raven in 2026, their clinic participation increased, and women’s merchandise sales grew. These achievements helped Circling Raven increase total revenue by 5% year over year.

“It’s gratifying to have Circling Raven continue thriving in part by tapping into industry trends,” said Rasmussen. “It’s important to make research-based business decisions to succeed and grow the game simultaneously. We can’t wait for the 2027 season to build on our momentum and guest satisfaction.”

While the 18-hole course is closed, the Circling Raven Indoor Golf Suites will open on Nov. 4 –  1-9 pm Wednesday-Saturday, 12-7 pm on Sunday – providing guests with a state-of-the-art indoor golf and entertainment destination. Golfers and non-golfers alike can immerse themselves in a multi-faceted virtual experience of fun, skill-building, and relaxation.

With access to over 80 iconic courses like The Old Course at St. Andrews and Pebble Beach, the simulators bring every slope, tree, and green realistically to life with breathtaking detail. Non-golfers can enjoy virtual putt-putt or other virtual games, including darts, soccer shootouts, home run derbies, and virtual football. Play is enhanced on the 15-foot widescreens or the dazzling 31-foot curved screen – perfect for groups of up to eight people.

Between games, guests can relax in style with plush lounge seating, HDTVs and music, while savoring food and drinks delivered from select casino eateries. Guests aged 18 and older can enjoy video gaming machines, explore putting greens, and shop the latest Circling Raven Golf Club merchandise.

For more information, visit cdacasino.com.