Troon Selected to Manage Achasta Golf Club in Georgia

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services, is pleased to announce it has been selected to manage Achasta Golf Club, a semi-private club in Dahlonega, Georgia. Achasta Golf Club was recently purchased by Legacy Golf Properties, a Kerrville, Texas-based ownership group. Troon will assist with managing club operations, agronomy, retail, food and beverage, as well as sales and marketing for Legacy Golf Properties.

Located an hour north of Atlanta, Achasta Golf Club features an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature design golf course that plays 6,900 yards and to a par of 72. The course is nestled in the North Georgia Mountains and winds around the beautiful Chestatee River. Open since 2000, Achasta has hosted qualifiers for the PGA TOUR’s AT&T Classic and Bell South Classic Open as well as the U.S. Open. An expansive practice facility with a driving range and practice putting green are available for members and guests to enjoy.

“Achasta is breathtaking – nestled in a valley and completely embraced by the mountains of Dahlonega, Georgia, one of the state's top-rated tourist destinations,” said Troon Vice President of Operations Dana Schultz. “We're thrilled to partner with the new ownership team and take the experience to a whole new level for members and guests."

The 10,500 sq. ft. clubhouse is home to The Achasta Grille, a full-service restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the club’s event space that is capable of hosting weddings and events of up to 250 guests. In addition to golf, Achasta Golf Club members enjoy amenities such as two tennis courts, six pickleball courts, and a resort-style pool.

For tee times and more information on Achasta Golf Club, visit www.achasta.com/dahlonega-ga-golf.

Ghost Golf Reaper SL by Payntr Golf Unboxing | Performance Meets Style

In this unboxing, Rob Thomas of American Golfer takes a first look at the new Ghost Golf Reaper SL by Payntr Golf — a collaboration that combines Payntr's performance-focused golf footwear technology with Ghost Golf's bold, modern style.

The Reaper SL definitely doesn't look like a traditional golf shoe. From the sleek design and Ghost Golf-inspired colorways to the performance-focused construction, this shoe is designed for golfers who want comfort, stability, traction and style.

In this unboxing, Rob takes a closer look at:

Ghost Golf × Payntr collaboration

Reaper SL design and styling

Microfiber upper

Waterproof protection and breathability

Autoprene tongue

Cushioned midsole with energy return

OrthoLite footbed

Spikeless traction technology

Available colorways

Performance and comfort features

The big question now: How does the Reaper SL perform over 18 holes?

Rob is taking these shoes to the course this week, so stay tuned for a full on-course look and more thoughts after putting the Reaper SL through its paces.

What do you think of the Ghost Golf Reaper SL by Payntr Golf? Let us know in the comments!

#GhostGolf #PayntrGolf #ReaperSL #GolfShoes #GolfUnboxing #GolfGear #GolfEquipment #AmericanGolfer #GolfFashion #GolfTechnology

La Réserve Golf Links Earns Important Place Among World’s Most Beautiful Courses in Inaugural X Factor Ranking

Indian Ocean’s first and only contemporary links layout adds to its growing list of global accolades, celebrated for its jaw-dropping aesthetics and pure golfing drama

(Bel Ombre, Mauritius) – La Réserve Golf Links, at Heritage Resorts & Golf in Mauritius, has secured further international recognition, adding to its growing list of honors, by earning a place in Golf World’s inaugural Top 100 World X Factor Courses.

This latest accolade further reinforces La Réserve Golf Links’ position as the #1 golf course in the Indian Ocean and celebrates the layout among a curated selection of the planet’s most visually spectacular and thrilling golf courses.

Designed to honour courses defined by jaw-dropping aesthetics and dramatic landscapes, the X Factor ranking highlights layouts that prioritise pure golfing drama over traditional architectural subtlety.

Unfolding across a dramatic split-level hillside landscape alongside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, La Réserve Golf Links delivers an exhilarating setting where every hole offers sweeping Indian Ocean views, far-reaching vistas over tropical bays, elevated tees, and infinity greens set against the horizon.

Highlighting the course’s breathtaking design, Chris Bertram, Top 100 Courses and Resorts Editor at Golf World, described La Réserve Golf Links as a: “Split-level hillside course where the holes on the top tier offer a succession of varied scenes – elevated tees and infinity greens – with the Indian Ocean background the common theme.”

Co-designed by acclaimed course architect Peter Matkovich and Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, La Réserve Golf Links was inspired by the wild open spaces of traditional seaside links. A two-time host of the DP World Tour’s AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, the layout plays hand-in-hand with nature, transforming former sugarcane fields into rich, rolling grasslands that deliver world-class championship golf in an unrivalled tropical setting.

“To have La Réserve Golf Links recognised in this inaugural global X Factor ranking is a proud moment for our entire team and for Mauritius,” said Raoul Maurel, Chief Operations Officer of Heritage Resorts & Golf. “This list celebrates courses that deliver an unforgettable thrill and jaw-dropping aesthetics. From our elevated tees to the sweeping Indian Ocean backdrop, La Réserve Golf Links was crafted from day one to offer an exhilarating experience of pure golfing drama.

“This recognition is a testament to the ambitious vision of our team and further cements Mauritius, and the Bel Ombre estate, as a must-visit destination for discerning golfers worldwide.”

Earning its place at #89 in the inaugural global X Factor list, this latest distinction builds upon a wider story of international acclaim for the layout. The course was also recently ranked 28th in Golfweek’s Top 100 International Courses (outside the US) for 2026.

Together with the critically acclaimed Le Château Golf Course, La Réserve Golf Links forms a 45-hole championship offering within the 2,500-hectare Bel Ombre estate. Paired with the luxury of Heritage Le Telfair, Heritage Awali, and Heritage The Villas, Heritage Resorts & Golf retains its elite status as a World Top 25 Golf Resort where championship courses, heartfelt hospitality, and immersive experiences come together in perfect harmony.

Why It’s Worth Your Time to Visit

For golfers seeking more than simply a great round, La Réserve Golf Links offers an experience that is difficult to match. The combination of world-class golf, dramatic Indian Ocean scenery and Mauritius’ natural beauty makes every hole memorable, while the Bel Ombre setting provides an ideal base for a luxury golf getaway. With two championship courses, exceptional resorts and a wealth of activities beyond the fairways, La Réserve Golf Links is a destination where the quality of the golf is matched by the overall experience.

Miyu Yamashita Claims CPKC Women’s Open Title With Commanding Victory

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.) – Srixon staffer Miyu Yamashita captured the CPKC Women’s Open at Royal Mayfair Golf Club, securing a dominant victory and her second LPGA Tour title of the 2026 season.

Yamashita set the tone from the opening round, firing a tournament-record 8-under 62 to take the early lead. She followed with rounds of 64 and 65 to build a commanding six-shot advantage heading into Sunday’s final round. Her three-round total of 19-under 191 established a tournament record for 54 holes. Shooting a final-round 4-under 66 to finish at 23-under 257, tying the LPGA’s 72-hole scoring record.

Throughout the week at Royal Mayfair, Yamashita showcased the consistency, precision and shot-making that have become a marker of her game. Her commanding performance allowed her to remain atop the leaderboard from start to finish. The victory continues an impressive run for Yamashita, who earned her first LPGA Tour win of the season at the Meijer LPGA Classic in June.

Take a look inside Miyu Yamashita's winning set up:
- Srixon ZXi 9° Driver
- Srixon ZX Mk II (3, 5) Fairway Wood
- Srixon ZX Mk II (4, 5) Hybrid
- Srixon ZXi5 Irons (6i)
- Srixon ZXi7 Irons (7i-PW)
- Cleveland Golf RTZ Wedge (48°, 52°, 58°)
- Srixon Z-STAR XV Golf Ball

To explore Yamashita’s winning bag, visit us.dunlopsports.com/srixon.

LIV Golfer Harold Varner III Asked to Leave Indiana Golf Club After Sixsome Dispute

LIV Golf's Harold Varner III was asked to leave an Indiana golf course earlier this week after he and five other golfers allegedly violated the club's rules by playing as a sixsome.

Varner was in Indiana for LIV Golf Indianapolis and had a tee time Tuesday at Bear Slide Golf Club in Cicero. According to a statement posted by the club on social media, Varner had reserved a tee time for four golfers but arrived about 30 minutes late with a group of six.

Bear Slide said it accommodated the group but instructed the golfers to split into two threesomes. The group reportedly asked multiple times if they could play together as a sixsome and was told that groups of that size were not permitted.

According to the club, Varner asked the pro shop three separate times for permission to play as a sixsome and was told no, particularly because other golfers were playing behind them.

The six golfers initially teed off as two separate groups and continued that way through the first three holes. However, Bear Slide said the groups joined together on the fourth hole, a par 3 away from the clubhouse.

One member of the group reportedly told staff they had joined together only to watch the group ahead of them tee off. The club disputed that explanation.

"Our staff watched all 6 tee off and putt out together," Bear Slide said in its statement.

After the fourth hole, course officials informed the golfers that they needed to leave the property. The club said the golfers were given refunds for their tee time and denied claims that its staff told the group to "Get the hell off the course."

Bear Slide also said there were multiple groups playing behind Varner's group at the time, including golfers on the second, third and fourth holes.

The club emphasized that its decision was based on enforcing the same rules for every golfer.

"Perhaps this group felt like they should get special privileges because of who they are and the organization they belong to," the club said. "But we believe that everyone should be treated fairly and should follow the same rules, regardless of your playing ability or connections."

Bear Slide did not identify the other golfers in Varner's group. Varner is a member of LIV Golf's OKGC team, which was previously known as Smash GC. Other members of the team include Talor Gooch, Jason Kokrak and Graeme McDowell.

Varner joined LIV Golf after playing on the PGA Tour from 2015 through 2022. He won his first LIV Golf individual title at the 2023 LIV Golf Washington, D.C., event.

Varner entered Sunday's final round of LIV Golf Indianapolis tied for 16th at 9 under par.

Circling Raven Golf Club (ID) Superintendent Completes Certification Program through GCSAA

Kal Zaranec achieves professional distinction from Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

(Worley, Idaho) — Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel is proud to announce that Kal Zaranec, Superintendent at its award-winning Circling Raven Golf Club, has earned his Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) accreditation from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. 

Kal Zaranec

To achieve this designation, superintendents must qualify as an applicant by satisfying specific education and experience requirements. They must then successfully complete a rigorous examination and submit to a peer evaluation of the golf course facility. 

“Circling Raven Golf Club is fortunate to have one of the approximately 1,000 Certified Golf Course Superintendents,” said J. Rhett Evans, GCSAA CEO. “Attaining certification demonstrates Mr. Zaranec’s desire for personal advancement and a wish to provide [Circling Raven] with the best playing conditions possible. His willingness to be judged by the standards of fellow professionals and to assume a position of leadership in the game of golf should be commended.”

Zaranec became the head superintendent at Circling Raven in 2022. Prior to his promotion he was first assistant. This is the second major industry education program he has completed since taking the helm on all things agronomic at the golf club. He graduated from the EXCEL Leadership Program presented by Nufarm and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) in 2024. Zaranec was one of six graduates recognized for completing the 3-year program.

“The program is designed to challenge you, identify your weaknesses, and provide a clear path for continued growth and development. That process has made me a better Golf Course Superintendent and a stronger leader,” Zaranec said. “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the leadership team at Circling Raven Golf Club and the Coeur d’Alene Casino for their support and for allowing me the time and opportunity to pursue and achieve this designation.  It’s great to have a leadership team that values continuing education and professional growth.”

Circling Raven Director of Golf Don Rasmussen, PGA, views Zaranec as a crucial component of the operation – both on and off the course.

“Kal's leadership has become one of the cornerstones of Circling Raven's success. His commitment to excellence, transparent communication, proactive planning, and genuine care for both the golf course and his team consistently produce outstanding results. He exemplifies the values of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and our casino resort hotel operation through his integrity, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to providing our guests with an exceptional golf experience every day.”

Opened in 2003, Circling Raven’s many accolades garnered include Best Public Course in Idaho, Top 20 U.S. Casino Course, and Top 100 Resort Course. It hosted the LPGA’s Epson Tour for three years (2021-23) through which top women golf professionals from around the world unanimously praised the course conditions and its design (by golf course architect Gene Bates).

For more information, visit www.cdacasino.com/golf or call 800-523-2464.

JumboMax Golf Grips Selects JDPR as Public Relations Agency-of-Record

Independent strategic communications agency expands golf brand portfolio with JumboMax partnership.

(GREENVILLE, S.C.) – JumboMax Golf Grips, the industry leader in golf grip innovation, has named independent strategic communications agency JDPR as its public relations agency-of-record to support the expansion of its brand and product lineup across North America. JDPR, a nationally renowned agency known for its presence in the golf category, will provide strategic planning, brand support, media relations and product launch expertise to amplify the brand’s position and drive measurable impact.

Founded in 2009, JumboMax Golf Grips helps golfers play better with grips designed for a proper ergonomic fit. Tour-validated by players such as Bryson DeChambeau and Jason Day, the brand has proven that selecting grip size, shape and weight based on fit and performance is the fastest and easiest equipment change for measurable improvement.

“We chose JDPR because of their deep knowledge of the golf category, extensive media relationships and true understanding of our brand’s mission,” said John Mazzanoble, president of JumboMax Golf Grips. “JDPR’s strategy-first approach and creative ideas made us confident in this partnership and we are excited to work together as JumboMax enters a new chapter.”

The new partnership expands JDPR’s portfolio of golf brands and reflects continuation of the agency’s 35-year legacy in the category. In addition to strategic PR services, JDPR also supports golf brands such as Cobra Puma Golf, Bridgestone Golf and FlightScope with full-funnel marketing capabilities, including paid digital and traditional media, SEM/paid search, online reputation management, SEO and AiO/GEO.

While JDPR will support JumboMax Golf Grips’ earned media efforts, Rooted Solutions will continue to lead brand and growth marketing for JumboMax, a role it has held for more than six years. Rooted works from a simple premise: passionate golfers make equipment decisions over time, not in a single moment. Belief accumulates through the product, the people they trust and everything the brand says and does. Rooted’s role is to make sure it all adds up.

“The opportunity to work with JumboMax is an exciting one; they are a true disruptor in their category with years of research and data-backed innovation,” said Matt Lochel, president and CEO of JDPR. “This partnership reflects our commitment to elevating brands through intentional and impactful communication strategies, and we look forward to many shared successes as JumboMax continues to grow.”

To learn more about JumboMax, visit jumbomax.com.