Epson Tour Championship Returns to Indian Wells Golf Resort Next Week

(INDIAN WELLS, CA) — The City of Indian Wells is proud to continue as the presenting sponsor of the Epson Tour Championship for the third consecutive year in 2026. The Epson Tour's season-ending showcase event will take place on the newly redesigned Players Course at Indian Wells Golf Resort the week of September 28 - October 4, 2026.

As the final tournament of the year, after the conclusion of the championship, the top 15 finishers on the Epson Tour's season-long "Race for the Card" will earn their LPGA Tour cards for the 2027 season. Exciting changes to the tournament format this year include the field being limited to the top 80 players on the Race for the Card standings, and the 72-hole championship will now feature a no-cut format. The total purse will be $250,000, with the winner earning $100,000, a first in the 46-year history of the tour.

In addition to attending the Epson Tour Championship, golf fans have a rare opportunity to be part of the action during the official Pro-Am held on Wednesday of tournament week, playing the course alongside a future LPGA Tour star.

"As a premier golf destination, we are excited to once again welcome the Epson Tour Championship to Indian Wells," said Dr. Toper Taylor, mayor of Indian Wells. "The Epson Tour brings some of the most talented professional women golfers to our community and provides an incredible opportunity for residents, visitors, and golf fans to experience championship-caliber competition right here in Indian Wells."

"Indian Wells has become the perfect stage for the Epson Tour to crown its season, and we couldn't ask for a better partner in the City of Indian Wells," said Jody Brothers, GM of the Epson Tour. "The newly redesigned Players Course gives our athletes a true championship test, and the backdrop of the Coachella Valley creates an unforgettable setting for the final push toward LPGA Tour cards. This is where dreams are realized, and there's no place we'd rather do it."

For more information on the Epson Tour Championship, visit www.epsontourchampionship.com. For more information about the City of Indian Wells, visit www.CityOfIndianWells.org.

Srixon Introduces All-New ZXi RKT Woods

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.) – SRIXON announces the launch of its all-new ZXi RKT Woods family, a complete reimagination of brand’s metalwood lineup engineered to deliver explosive ball speed, refined acoustics, and tour-validated performance for golfers of every skill level.

The new lineup, including ZXi RKT LS, ZXi RKT, and ZXi RKT MAX Drivers, along with ZXi RKT Fairway Woods and Hybrids, represents years of research, prototyping, and collaboration between Srixon’s engineers and Tour staff. Rather than pursuing a simple evolution of its previous generation, Srixon rebuilt its development process from the ground up, creating entirely new prototypes and gathering deeper player feedback to uncover every possible performance advantage.

Chasing the Perfect Formula

Powering the performance of ZXi RKT Woods is new RKT Face technology, a breakthrough system born from Srixon's pursuit of faster ball speeds and greater consistency. This new system includes VR-Titanium, a new proprietary alloy enhanced with silicon to create more flex throughout the face and body of the drivers. Combined with an enhanced i-FLEX face structure, the result is a more efficient transfer of energy at impact, helping golfers unlock greater speed and performance across more of the face.

Beyond raw speed, ZXi RKT Woods were engineered to deliver greater consistency when golfers need it most. A new Variable Roll Design helps keep misses on line by optimizing performance across the face, while Rebound Frame technology boosts ball speed and distance by utilizing two flex zones, instead of one.

Throughout testing, one of the most consistent themes we heard from players was the desire for more speed across a larger area of the face without giving up consistency. RKT Face was developed to answer that challenge. By combining several technologies into a single performance system, we were able to create a face that not only produces exceptional ball speed but does so more consistently across a wider range of impact locations. - Patrick Ripp, Srixon Tour Engineering Manager

Improving the face wasn’t the only design objective Srixon engineers targeted. Throughout the development process, engineers focused on creating a sound that inspires confidence. The new ACOUSTICORE chassis utilizes AI-optimized internal rib structures and lightweight carbon fiber crown construction to precisely tune the acoustic character of each model. Through advanced simulations and extensive testing, engineers refined every frequency until they achieved a crisp, controlled impact sound worthy of the performance behind it.

Dedicated Tour Development

Tour feedback played a critical role in shaping every ZXi RKT clubhead. Over two years of prototype testing in competitive environments worldwide, Srixon’s R&D team refined face depth, crown height, address profiles, face angles, and lie angles to create a more confident look and improved performance from the generation prior. Deeper faces and taller heads increase performance high on the face, while more compact shapes provide a cleaner, more player-preferred appearance at address. Additionally, a redesigned laser face milling pattern also improves alignment at address and helps maintain more consistent spin in challenging conditions.

One of the biggest differences with this generation of woods was how closely we worked alongside our Tour staff throughout the entire process. Every round of testing led to new insights, and those insights directly influenced the decisions our engineering team made. The final product is a lineup that reflects what elite players are asking for while delivering benefits that every golfer can appreciate.

Patrick Ripp, Srixon Tour Engineering Manager

ZXi RKT Woods Lineup 

The ZXi RKT Driver family offers three distinct performance profiles:

- ZXi RKT LS: Built for aggressive players seeking maximum distance and reduced spin through a low-spin profile and adjustable front-to-back weighting.
- ZXi RKT: Combines speed, forgiveness, and workability with adjustable heel-toe weighting for customized shot shape and trajectory control.
- ZXi RKT MAX: Srixon’s highest MOI driver ever, built to provide exceptional stability, confidence, and forgiveness while maintaining a powerful, athletic profile.

The innovation goes beyond the driver category. New ZXi RKT Fairway Woods and Hybrids feature the same RKT Face architecture while introducing Srixon’s most comprehensive adjustability system yet. For the first time, Adjustable Sole Weights and Adjustable Hosel Sleeves work together, allowing golfers to precisely dial in launch conditions, swing weight, and distance gapping to fit their game.

The result is Srixon’s most advanced woods lineup to date, shaped through years of tour validation, engineered for speed and consistency, and refined down to every detail golfers can see, hear, and feel.

To learn more about the new ZXi RKT Woods lineup, visit us.dunlopsports.com/srixon.

Pricing & Availability

- ZXi RKT, ZXi RKT LS, ZXi RKT MAX Drivers: $649.99
- ZXi RKT Fairway Woods: $379.99
- ZXi RKT Hybrids: $329.99

Launch Date: October 16, 2026

GOLF Magazine Names Apes Hill Barbados to its Top 100 Resorts’ List

Honor bestows distinction on the luxury venue’s golf and resort amenities

(St. James, Barbados) – GOLF Magazine (Golf.com) includes Apes Hill Barbados in its newly released list of “Top 100 Golf Resorts” – an aggregation of elite places around the globe where discerning travelers can relish “singular experiences.”

Wrote GOLF: “Set 1,000 feet above sea level, the golf resort and community of Apes Hill encompass 475 acres of stunning landscape: deep, winding gullies, coral rock formations and rare sand dunes, highlighted by the Scotland District, a rare underwater mountain range that is visible above sea level. Guests can enjoy panoramic vistas of both the Atlantic and Caribbean Oceans as they tee it up on the onsite, 18-hole championship course, or they can bring the family for a stroll on the 9-hole Little Apes par-3 course. Off-course activities abound, too, like guided hikes through the island’s lush surrounds, tennis and Padel courts, yoga, swimming, and a short shuttle ride to the property’s private beach club.”

The heartbeat of Apes Hill is its golf club – from 18 ingenious holes designed by Ron Kirby and ranked among the Top 100 courses internationally, to Little Apes, an island green 19th hole, and the Performance Centre where players can hone their game with state-of-the-art technology. The championship course is so worthy that the Legends Tour annually plays there, hosted by Apes Hill Ambassador Ian Woosnam, a Masters and Ryder Cup champion as well as being a Barbados resident.

“At Augusta, there were moments where you had to pick your line and live with it – no second guessing – Apes Hill gives you that same challenge,” said Woosnam. “There are holes where if you hesitate, you’re in trouble. But if you commit, it’s incredibly rewarding. That’s the mark of a world-class course.”

In addition to showcasing the finest golf resorts worldwide, GOLF/golf.com also judged the Top 100 resorts specifically for their accommodations, and Apes Hill was touted as having the “Best Lodging.” Guests can choose from 3- and 4-bedroom villas – named Courtyard and Hilltop respectively – that provide diverse yet complementary options. The new signature Hilltop Villas are single-story homes with 4 bedrooms and an open-plan design. Set beside the Little Apes par-3 course, they look westward across the Caribbean Sea, where sunsets fill the horizon.

The 3-bedroom Courtyard Villas feature views of the 18th fairway – a blend of thoughtful design spread across two spacious floors. Like the Hilltop Villas, they are designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, each villa includes its own garden and a private pool. Whether taking a morning dip, fine-tuning a golf swing at the range or heading to the 20th Hole for a drink, everything is close at hand.

Along with golf, sustainability defines Apes Hill’s essence. Its commitment to caring for the land and sea has garnered it World Golf Awards for its green friendliness, both for golf and the resort. Apes Hill also earned certification from Audubon International for its enviro and sustainability best practices. These include a bioswale system, a rain catchment reservoir, and farm gardens that produce fresh fruits and vegetables.

For more information, visit www.apeshill.com. 

Meadows Golf Club Opens Second Course in Sarasota, Welcomes Public Play

36-Hole Public Golf Destination in The Meadows Community Under Arnold Palmer Golf Management with Tee Times Now Available

(SARASOTA, Fla.) — Meadows Golf Club, formerly The Meadows Country Club, today announced that its second course, the Groves Course, will open for public play beginning Thursday, October 1. The opening of the Groves Course follows a major renovation and revitalization of the golf club, designed to enhance the overall playing experience and provide a more accessible golf destination for the Sarasota community and beyond.

Located within The Meadows, one of Sarasota’s most prominent lifestyle communities, Meadows Golf Club has been open for public play since June and is operated and managed by Arnold Palmer Golf Management (APGM) on behalf of Benderson Development.

The Meadows Course, the first course to reopen, features one of the finest layouts in the area, offering five sets of tees with yardage from 5,029 to 6,572. As part of the club’s revitalization, the course has undergone significant improvements, including the restoration of greens and tee boxes, along with enhancements to the practice putting green and driving range. The club has also introduced a brand-new fleet of Club Car Tempo golf carts equipped with GPS systems, adding convenience and technology to the on-course experience.

With the addition of the Groves Course, the club becomes a 36-hole public golf destination, open to residents, visiting guests, and golf enthusiasts alike.

The Groves Course

Designed by noted golf course architect Arthur Hills in 1987, The Groves Course spans 50 acres of natural Florida scenery just off I-75 and University Parkway — a short drive from Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice. The executive-style, par-65 layout features eight par 3s, nine par 4s, and a single par 5 across 18 holes. Narrow fairways and sloping greens reward shot placement and accuracy, giving the Groves the character and challenge of a championship par-72 course.

Tee times for the Groves Course are now available. For more information on Meadows Golf Club, to book a tee time, or to learn about the club’s loyalty programs, visit www.meadowsgolfclub.net.

J.J. Spaun Surges Late to Capture BMW PGA Championship Title

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.) – Srixon’s J.J. Spaun delivered a fiery closing stretch on Sunday to capture the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club, securing his second victory of the 2026 season and first Rolex Series win of his career.

Making his debut appearance at the prestigious event, Spaun finished at 17-under-par after birdieing four of his final five holes to claim one of the DP World Tour’s most coveted titles.

This means so much. I’ve kind of blossomed into this player that I never thought I could be. To take my game across the world, more specifically here in England, a place that’s dear to my family’s heart, the stars kind of aligned this week for me to come out on top. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity and played well, and come out with the win. - J.J. Spaun, Srixon Staffer

Known for his elite ball-striking, Spaun showcased that precision when it mattered most. With the championship coming down to the wire, he attacked the flagsticks throughout the closing stretch, highlighted by a pinpoint approach on the par-3 14th hole that settled within five feet of the cup. The resulting birdie sparked a dominant run that propelled him to victory.

Spaun’s performance was fueled by a trusted setup featuring Srixon’s ZXi Irons, a mix of Cleveland Golf Wedges, and the Z-STAR DIAMOND golf ball. Utilizing a combination set of ZXi7 and ZXi5 Irons, he consistently found his targets around Wentworth’s layout, while his Z-STAR DIAMOND provided the combination of distance, control, and greenside performance needed to navigate the historic course.

The win adds to Spaun’s growing list of accolades and further validates the performance of Srixon’s tour-proven equipment in golf’s biggest Take a look at Spaun’s winning setup:
- Srixon ZXi5 Irons (4i)
- Srixon ZXi7 Irons (5-PW)
- Cleveland Golf RTX ZipCore (50°), RTZ (54° Full), RTX 6 ZipCore (60° Low)
- Srixon Z-STAR DIAMOND Golf Ball

For more information of the clubs Spaun used to seal his victory, visit us.dunlopsports.com/srixon.  

3 Underrated Golf Resorts in the U.S. That Won’t Break the Bank

French Lick

Pebble Beach and Kohler offer some of the best golf in America. They also come with some eye-popping prices.

But you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy a great golf resort vacation. Here are three underrated golf resorts in the U.S. that combine quality golf, other activities and relatively easy access.

1. French Lick Resort — French Lick, Indiana

French Lick Resort

French Lick delivers a legitimate destination-resort experience, highlighted by the spectacular Pete Dye Course and the historic Donald Ross Course. There's also the nine-hole Valley Links and Sand Creek short course.

The Pete Dye Course isn't cheap, but the resort's multiple courses and stay-and-play packages give golfers plenty of options.

And there's much more than golf: a casino, multiple spas and pools, restaurants, bowling, sporting clays, archery and other activities.

It's also relatively easy to reach, about 75 miles from Louisville and roughly 100 miles from Indianapolis.

Why go? Big-time golf plus a full resort experience.

2. Omni Bedford Springs Resort — Bedford, Pennsylvania

Omni Bedford Springs

Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa

Hidden in the Allegheny Mountains, Omni Bedford Springs is one of those golf destinations that deserves more attention.

The resort's historic Old Course offers a memorable mountain golf experience. In 2026, resort-guest rates start at $99 in the offseason, with main-season rates starting at $209 Monday through Thursday.

Away from the course, there's a 30,000-square-foot spa, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, hiking, biking, restaurants, fishing and other outdoor activities.

It's also convenient for a road trip, about 90 minutes from Pittsburgh and roughly 2½ hours from Washington, D.C.

Why go? Historic golf, beautiful scenery and plenty to do beyond golf.

3. Talamore Golf Resort — Southern Pines, North Carolina

Talamore

Talamore Golf Resort

If you want the Pinehurst golf experience without necessarily paying Pinehurst Resort prices, take a look at Talamore.

The resort gives guests access to multiple courses and says its packages provide access to more than 30 courses throughout the Pinehurst/Southern Pines area.

Some 2026 stay-and-play packages start around $300 per person, making Talamore particularly appealing for golf buddies and groups.

There's also a Toptracer range, an 18-hole putting course, swimming pool, group-friendly accommodations and even resident llamas.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is about an hour away.

Why go? A more affordable base for exploring one of America's greatest golf destinations.

The Bottom Line

You don't have to spend Pebble Beach or Kohler money to enjoy an unforgettable golf resort vacation.

French Lick offers championship golf and a huge variety of resort activities.

Omni Bedford Springs combines historic golf with a relaxing mountain getaway.

Talamore puts you in the heart of the Pinehurst golf region without requiring a Pinehurst-sized budget.

None is necessarily cheap, but all three offer something that matters when planning a golf trip: great golf, things to do off the course and value for your money.

And sometimes the best golf trip is the one that gives you a little more value for your money.

#Golf #GolfTrip #GolfTravel #GolfResorts #PebbleBeach #Pinehurst #FrenchLick #OmniBedfordSprings #Talamore #GolfVacation

Spirit Golf Management Announces $25 Million Clubhouse at Five Ponds Golf Club in Warminster, PA

New clubhouse will expand dining and event capabilities, introduce an indoor teaching studio with four golf simulators, and support year-round play and community use

(Warminster, PA) – Spirit Golf Management, a division of The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), and a leading provider of golf management services, today announced a $25 million new clubhouse construction project at Five Ponds Golf Club (Warminster Township, PA), one of the premier municipal golf facilities in the region.

The 27,000-square-foot clubhouse is designed to elevate the overall experience for golfers, event guests and visitors to the Bucks County facility. The new clubhouse will feature an event space accommodating up to 250 guests for banquets, weddings, parties and other gatherings, along with a 1,400-square-foot pro shop offering golf equipment, apparel and accessories. Multiple kitchens will support both the event space and the new bar and grill, improving food-and-beverage service and operational efficiency. The event space and restaurant will each feature a large, covered patio, creating additional options for outdoor dining, private gatherings and smaller group events.

Golf operations are expected to continue throughout construction, with tee times, league play, golf instruction and player-development programs remaining available. A temporary tented hospitality space, supported by a bar and kitchen trailer, will provide food-and-beverage service for golfers, practice-facility patrons and outing participants during the project.

Municipal golf continues to play an increasingly important role in making the game accessible to local communities. According to the National Golf Foundation, the number of municipally owned and operated golf courses has increased by 7% since 2006. At the beginning of 2026, nearly 3,000 municipal golf courses were operating at more than 2,600 facilities—the highest totals on record.

“This project reflects our shared commitment with Warminster Township to enhance an already exceptional municipal golf facility,” said Mike Attara, president of Spirit Golf Management. “The new clubhouse will expand the ways Five Ponds serves golfers and the broader community while positioning the facility for long-term success.”

One of the project’s highlights will be an indoor teaching studio featuring four golf simulators and private seating. The space will support recreational play, special events, advanced club fitting and year-round instruction led by PGA Professionals.

Five Ponds Golf Club is home to an 18-hole championship golf course with a picturesque layout highlighted by five spectacular water features throughout the golf course.  The signature hole is the scenic Par-3 17th where golfers hit over water to a beautifully contoured green complex. 

To complement the Championship layout, Five Ponds Golf Club is equipped with a full-service practice facility, including a three-hole short course and practice area. Home to the Spirit Golf Academy, the facility offers a full line-up of player-development programs for golfers of all ages and levels and is home to a vibrant junior golf program with more than 200 participants annually.

Owned by Warminster Township (PA) and managed by Spirit Golf Management Powered by SFC, Five Ponds demonstrates how a public-private partnership can strengthen a municipal golf facility, enhance the guest experience and create lasting value for the community.

“This new clubhouse represents a major investment into the future of Five Ponds Golf Club and the community we proudly serve,” said Kenneth Hayes, chairman of the Warminster Township Board of Supervisors. “We are creating a modern, welcoming destination that will elevate the experience for golfers, families, and visitors while strengthening Five Ponds as a premier recreational and community asset.”