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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

New Black Magic Sand Wedge Brings Fast Lift to Short Shots


The sand wedge is a club that serves a precise, utilitarian purpose. It is a club designed to help golfers get out of a bunker and onto the green, accurately, efficiently, and without wasting any strokes. About this club, there is seldom any doubt: You can take one look at your shot and determine that you either need a sand wedge, or you do not. With this in mind, Black Magic Wedge announces its new 56 degree wedge, engineered to do its job as expediently as possible.

For the seasoned golfer or for the novice, a wedge like this one is worth its salt and then some: Nothing frustrates more than seeing a great drive nullified by a lousy short game, or by difficulties rescuing your ball from the bunker. With Black Magic Wedge's hybrid wedges, this is no longer an issue: The 56 degree wedge, in particular, is designed to save strokes and improve your short game, period.

Black Magic Wedge's sand wedge is designed to offer precision and control on shots made from 75 yards and in for the average golfer. While the yardage each player gets will likely remain unchanged, this sand wedge product offers significant opportunities for improvement in accuracy. Even the Black Magic Wedge logo, affixed to the head of the club, is designed with heightened accuracy in mind; the logo is an aligning tool, and when used properly ensures a smooth and precise shot.

Indeed, accuracy is the name of the game here. This sand wedge has a "No Hosel" design on the face, which means shanking is virtually impossible. The club also offers an extra wide sole, created to offer maximum bounce. In other words, it makes the experience of seeing clubs stuck in the turf or in the sand a thing of the past.

Like all Black Magic Wedge products, this one is made with reliability in mind. It is crafted with a stainless steel head and steel shaft. The head weight is 300 grams, and it has a D-5 swing weight. This club offers a standard length and regular grip, as well as a zero degree bounce angle, upon impact. It conforms to USGA Rules.

With all of its products, including this sand wedge, Black Magic Wedge is committed to helping players improve their short game. In fact, in addition to the club itself and a head cover, this product also comes with a booklet, offering tips for players seeking to improve their short game. Additionally, you can place a custom order for the length, flex, and grip thickness of your choice, all at no additional cost.

Ultimately, a good wedge will help you to slice through the turf and sink a clean, consistent, and smooth shot-and that is precisely what this 56 degree Black Magic Wedge product has to offer. For more information, or to order, visit blackmagicwedge.com.

OB Sports Unveils Winter Golf Packages

Three rounds/nights beginning at $250 and five rounds/nights at $350, valid 1-1-13 through 3-31-13

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) - OB Sports Golf Management announced two new winter stay-and-play packages valid January 1, 2013 through March 31, 2013 that feature a selection of golf courses in Phoenix/Scottsdale under their management. The "Top 20" golf package offers accommodations at The Inn at Eagle Mountain and golf at three courses currently ranked in the top twenty in Golf Magazine's 2012 ranking of the "Best Courses You Can Play in Arizona." They are the Scott Miller-designed Eagle Mountain Golf Club and both courses at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club-Cholla (also designed by Scott Miller) and Saguaro, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.

The new Scottsdale "Breaking Winter" golf package offers accommodations at The Hotel Valley Ho and golf at ASU Karsten Golf Course (designed by Pete Dye), Eagle Mountain Golf Club, Longbow Golf Club (designed by Ken Kavanaugh), We-Ko-Pa Golf Club's two courses and The Raven Golf Club - Phoenix (designed by David Graham and Gary Panks). Both packages can be customized and additional courses may be added.

Packages may be booked online at www.obsportsgolfvacations.com. For more information or personalized reservation assistance, call 866.561.4653 or email dcrawford@obsports.com.

"Top 20" AZ Golf Package
• 4 Days and 3 Nights, 3 Golf Rounds
• 3-Night Stay at The Inn at Eagle Mountain
• 3 Rounds of Golf at courses named to Golf Magazine's 2012 list of the: "Best Courses You Can Play in Arizona"- Eagle Mountain and We-Ko-Pa's Cholla and Saguaro Courses
• Packages starting at $250 per person per night, based on double occupancy, valid 1/1/13 through 3/31/13

Scottsdale "Breaking Winter" Golf Package
• 5-Night Stay at The Hotel Valley Ho
• 6 Rounds of Golf (ASU Karsten, Eagle Mountain, Longbow, We-Ko-Pa (Cholla and Saguaro) and The Raven
• Complimentary Breakfast
• VIP Access at Local Scottsdale Nightclubs (Axis Radius and Revolver Lounge)
• 6 Days and 5 Nights, 5 Golf Rounds
• Complimentary Breakfast
• $35.00 of any 90 minute regularly priced Spa treatment
• Shopping booklet worth $700.00 in coupons to Westcor Properties
• Packages starting at $350 per person per night, based on double occupancy, valid 1/1/13 through 3/31/13

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Orlimar Introduces Tour 2 Irons

Cavity Muscle Back, Soft Carbon Forged Tour Irons

(Flushing, Mich.) — Orlimar Golf Company has introduced a premium set of irons for the low-handicap player looking for a club that performs and feels like a traditional blade, but is more forgiving on off-center hits. The Tour 2 irons are a soft carbon forged (SCF) cavity muscle back iron that offers superior shot making for pin-point accuracy.

Orlimar Tour 2 iron is made from 1025 carbon forged stainless steel head, which provides outstanding feel and feedback that can only be achieved from forging soft steel. Internal muscle behind the sweet spot generates consistent power and control with just enough perimeter weighting for forgiveness on less than perfect shots. The nickel chrome-plated club head is designed with a thin top-line and sole to give the look and feel of a traditional blade. The club reduces drag through impact in all types of lies and adverse conditions. A uniform minimal hosel offset delivers consistent control throughout the set and CNC-milled grooves are USGA conforming.

“This product reaffirms Orlimar’s commitment to premium products for tour caliber players,” said John Runyon, Orlimar President and CEO. “The Tour 2 irons is Orlimar’s first entry into this category under the new ownership and we are very excited with the initial feedback from professionals and amateurs who have tested them. They give the irons high marks in control, feel and workability; all characteristics that the better player is looking for in a forged cavity back iron.”

The Orlimar Tour 2 irons are available in a 3 – PW set with True Temper Dynamic Gold S300 or R300 shaft options, Golf Pride grips and right-handed only. Custom fit shaft and grip options are also available. The suggested retail for a set of 8 irons is $799.99.

For information on Orlimar call 888.502.4653, visit www.orlimar.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

North Carolina’s Outer Banks Open for Golfers

(OUTER BANKS, N.C.) — While Hurricane Sandy continues to impact the East Coast and some parts of the Outer Banks were affected by sustained wind and rain, the area’s golf courses report no damage and are back open for play.

In fact, Kilmarlic Golf Club and The Carolina Club welcomed golfers on Tuesday (October 30), while The Currituck Club, Nags Head Golf Links and The Pointe Golf Club had some minor clean up and plan to reopen on Wednesday (October 31).

 “The Outer Banks and its people are very resilient,” said life-long resident Bryan Sullivan of Kilmarlic Golf Club and Outer Banks Golf Association. “We are open for golf again.”

The latest visitor information and travel updates can be accessed at www.OuterBanks.org and www.VisitCurrituck.com. Golf package information is available at www.PlayOBXGolf.com or 800-916-6244.

Best known as host site of the North Carolina Open in 2004 and 2009 and ODU/Outer Banks Collegiate golf tournament, Kilmarlic is nestled among 605 acres of maritime forest and sprawling wetlands. The course meanders through canopies of giant oak, pine and dogwood and features 15 acres of coastal ponds and lakes creating scenic natural hazards.

Located 10 miles north of Kilmarlic, the “locals’ choice” for great golf on the Outer Banks is The Carolina Club, which features superb bent grass greens and a picturesque par-3 island green. Five sets of tees and strong ocean breezes allow golfers to match their game to the challenge, ensuring that all skill levels will have an enjoyable time.

Designed by world-renowned architect Rees Jones on the northern end of the barrier island, Currituck Club stretches across nearly 7,000 yards of diverse coastal terrain, including towering sand dunes, wetlands, maritime forests and soundside shoreline. Golf Magazine awarded the course a coveted spot on its list of “Top 10 You Can Play.”

Nags Head, designed by Bob Moore on the southern end, is another true, Scottish, links-style course nestled into the natural, windswept environment of the Outer Banks. Sand dunes, wild sea grasses and rugged coastline create holes that Golf Digest labeled as “among the most beautiful in the eastern United States.”

As the last course on the mainland before crossing the Wright Brothers Bridge, The Pointe is recognized as one of the area’s most player-friendly and best conditioned golf courses, making it a “must play” on any Outer Banks vacation.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Cleveland Golf Introduces New Products for Fall


(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Cleveland Golf, a leader in wedges and equipment innovation for more than 30 years, is pleased to introduce four exciting new products slated for release in Fall 2012. They are: 588 RTX CB wedges, 588 Altitude irons, Classic Collection HB putters, and the T-Frame Belly putter.

588 RTX CB Wedge
588  RTX CB wedges combine the legendary performance of the original 588 wedge with added forgiveness and breakthrough ROTEX technology – Cleveland Golf's most advanced spin technology ever. Features include:
* 16% Larger Grooves. Through more precise manufacturing, these U-Grooves are 16% larger than previous Tour Zip Grooves to promote cleaner contact and maximize spin on critical scoring shots.
* Rougher, More Durable Laser Milling. Advanced surface roughness technology is now more durable and dimensionally optimized for even more friction at impact.
* ROTEX Face Pattern. Directionally milled face pattern adds roughness and imparts maximum spin, especially on open-face wedge shots where impact tends to be closer to the toe.
* Wedge Cavity Back. An undercut cavity promotes perimeter weighting for more forgiveness on off-center hits.
* Reverse C Sole. Inspired by Cleveland Golf's popular CG14 and CG16 wedges, this wide, constant-width sole combines heel and toe grinds to improve performance from bunkers and deep rough.

588 RTX CB wedges come in eight different lofts (46°-60°) with standard bounce in both Satin Chrome and Black Pearl finishes. Minimum advertised price (MAP) is $119.99. Women’s version is available.

For more information, visit www.clevelandgolf.com/US_wedges.html

588 Altitude Irons 
588 Altitude is a seamlessly blended hybrid-iron set with every iron engineered to be incredibly easy to hit for maximum playability and performance. Features include:
* Full Hollow Construction. Advanced internal weighting adds forgiveness and promotes a lower, deeper center of gravity for optimal launch and effortless distance.
* Face Forged Technology. Every iron has a forged club face to enhance ball speed and feel.
* Bendable Hosel. To fit different swing types, the hosel on 588 Altitude irons can be bent up to 3° upright or 2° flat and the loft can be bent 2° weaker or stronger.

588 Altitude irons are available 4-DW in graphite and steel shafts (3-iron and SW also available). MAP is $699 for 8-piece steel set and $799 for 8-piece graphite set. Women’s version is available.

For more information, visit www.clevelandgolf.com/US_irons.html

Classic Collection HB Putters (Models: #1, #3, #7, #10 and #6 Belly)
Classic Collection HB putters offer exceptional performance at an exceptional value. All five models combine traditional designs with softer, more responsive feel. Features include:
* Enhanced Feel. A new and improved Winn grip offers soft texture and responsive feedback. A slightly deeper CNC milling pattern on the face promotes a softer feel at impact for more control.
* Heel -Toe Weighting. This maximizes Moment of Inertia for minimal distance loss on off-center hits.

Classic Collection HB putters are available in four standard-length versions (#1, #3, #7, #10) with MAP of $89.99. Belly version is available in four different lengths – including a 39” Almost Belly – with MAP of $129.99. Women’s version of #10 model is available.

T-Frame Belly Putter 
The T-Frame Belly putter features advanced T-Frame performance in the stability of a Belly model. The putter is designed with a high Moment of Inertia, as over 70 grams of weight have been redistributed to the rear of the putter for maximum forgiveness on off-center strikes. A dominant “T” on the crown makes alignment easy, and a precision milled face promotes soft, solid feel. The T-Frame Belly putter is available in four different lengths – including a 39” Almost Belly – with MAP of $149.99.

For more information on these two new putters, visit www.clevelandgolf.com/US_putters.html

Each of these four products is now available for pre-booking and will be available in stores Nov. 16.

For more information on Cleveland Golf/Srixon, Never Compromise and Cleveland Classics apparel or their staff players, visit www.clevelandgolf.com, www.srixon.com, www.nevercompromise.com and www.clevelandclassicsapparel.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

McIlroy Leaving Titleist


(Fairhaven, MA) - Acushnet Company, which manufactures the Titleist and FootJoy brands, and Rory McIlroy, jointly announced that McIlroy's relationship with Acushnet will not extend beyond December 31.  McIlroy has trusted Titleist and FootJoy equipment throughout his professional career that commenced as an 18-year old in September 2007.

"Our goal has been to provide Rory with the best equipment and service that would help him be the best player he could possibly be," said Wally Uihlein, Chief Executive Officer, Acushnet Company. "He has been a great ambassador for the Titleist and FootJoy brands, and in turn, we are proud of how our equipment has contributed to his success. We wish Rory all the best, both personally and professionally, going forward."

"I would like to thank Wally Uihlein and all of the tour staff and employees at Titleist and FootJoy for everything they have done for me since I turned professional in 2007,” said McIlroy.  "I have enjoyed five very exciting and successful years with the company and I will always appreciate the contribution Titleist has made in helping me become the player I am today.”

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Monday, October 29, 2012

Han Lee Wins His Maiden Event


Han Lee, who is contracted with Dunlop Sports, won his first event at the “MyNavi ABC Championship Golf Tournament” on the Japan Tour. The event was held at ABC Golf Club in Hyogo Prefecture October 25-28.

Han started out tied for 10th, five strokes behind the leader on the last round and, despite the adverse weather condition, was the only player playing a superb round. He earned nine birdies and carded a 63. He was surprised with his own birdie approach shot on the eighth hole and his long 12-meter putt on the 14th hole.

With this win, he earned a spot in the World Golf Championship – HSBC Champion starting
November 1.

In his bag
* Ball:SRIXON Z-STAR Proto-type (Z-STAR3)
* Driver: Cleveland Black                                          
* Iron:Cleveland CG16(#4)                              
* Cleveland 588CB (#5)
* Cleveland 588MB (#6-P)
* Wedge:Cleveland 588PF (50, 56); Cleveland 588TA (60)
* Bag:Cleveland
* Cap:Cleveland
* Wear: Cleveland
* Glove:SRIXON

Lee’s Profile
* Birthday: Sept. 2, 1977
* Born: Korea
* Nationality: USA
* 2012 MyNavi ABC Championship Golf Tournament - Win
* Kansai Open Golf Championship - T6

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Athlete Suzann Pettersen Goes Back-to-Back with Victory at the Taiwan Championship

Pettersen won with a full bag of Nike Golf equipment including VR Pro wedges and the Nike Method Putter

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Nike Athlete Suzann Pettersen, secured her 10th LPGA title with back-to-back weekend wins.

Battling blustery conditions in the final round, Pettersen defeated the elements to claim victory at the Taiwan Championship. She capitalized on aggressive shots, utilizing her VR Pro wedges and Method putter to yield 23 birdies.

“My wedge game has been great all week,” said Pettersen as she broke down the success of her final round. The Nike VR Pro wedges, part of Pettersen’s Nike arsenal, utilize high frequency grooves - more grooves that are closer together. This groove formula ensures maximum flight control and shot-to-shot consistency.

After sticking it close with her VR Pro wedges, Pettersen sank crucial birdie putts with her Nike Method Putter. The Method franchise features Nike’s polymetal groove technology, generating a faster forward roll at impact for increased accuracy.

Pettersen also played with Nike’s 20XI X ball featuring Nike’s RZN Core technology.  This new innovative technology provides a lighter, faster and more responsive core than rubber core technology. RZN technology allows for less spin off the driver and more spin off the wedge, creating greater distance and control.

Pettersen also wore Nike Golf Apparel from the Performance line and the Nike Lunar Links, featuring Nike’s successful Lunar technology.

Pettersen’s Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Str8-FIT 9.5 degree
* Fairway Woods: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 3 Wood
* Hybrid: VR_S 18 degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro 4; Nike Pro Cavity 5; Nike Pro Split Cavity 6-P
* Wedges: VR 48 Blade; VR Pro 53 degree and 59 degree
* Putter: Nike Method 001
* Ball:  20XI X
* Footwear: Nike Lunar Links
* Apparel: Nike Tour Performance Women’s Collection

Nike Golf’s 2012 PGA Tour Victories
* Tiger Woods – AT&T National
* Tiger Woods – The Memorial Tournament
* Carl Pettersson – RBC Heritage
* Tiger Woods – Arnold Palmer Invitational

Nike Golf’s 2012 International Tour Victories
* Carly Booth – Deutsche Bank Swiss Open (Ladies European Tour)
* Francesco Molinari – Reale Seguros Open de Espana (PGA European Tour)
* Carly Booth – Abderdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottis Open (Ladies European Tour)

Nike Golf’s 2012 LPGA Victories
* Suzann Pettersen- KEB HanaBank Championship
* Suzann Pettersen- Taiwan Championship

Nike Golf’s 2012 Web.com Tour Victories
* Russell Henley – Chiquita Classic
* Russell Henley- Winn-Dixie Jacksonville Open

Linda Hartough to Exhibit Golf-Landscape Art at Cornell Museum of Art and American Culture

(HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C.) – Linda Hartough, world-renowned golf-landscape artist (www.hartough.com), will exhibit select original oil paintings and giclée canvas prints at the Cornell Museum of Art and American Culture at the Delray Center for the Arts in Delray Beach, Fla., Nov. 8, 2012 – April 21, 2013. Hartough’s works will be shown as part of the Academy of Golf Art’s joint exhibition with The Gary Wiren Collection of Dr. Gary Wiren’s collection of rare golf memorabilia. Hartough will attend the opening Nov. 8.

“It will be a pleasure to exhibit my art work in this special showing,” Hartough said. “The paintings will appeal both to those who appreciate fine art and those who love golf history.”

Hartough is a Founding Trustee of the Academy of Golf Art, a professional society of golf artists established in 2004 to create an awareness and appreciation of golf art as a valuable segment of fine art.

Included in the exhibition will be these works by Hartough:
Original Oil Paintings
 1. The 17th Hole, Black Course, Bethpage State Park, 2009 U.S. Open Championship
 2. The 18th Hole, Pebble Beach Golf Links
 3. The 10th Hole, Blue Course, Congressional Country Club, 2011 U.S. Open Championship
 4. The 8th Hole, Lake Course, The Olympic Club, 2012 U.S. Open Championship
Giclée Canvas Prints
 1. The 16th Hole, East Course, Merion Golf Club, 2013 U.S. Open Championship
 2. The 12th Hole, Golden Bell, Augusta National Golf Club
 3. The Swilcan Bridge, The 18th Hole of The Old Course, St Andrews Golf Links
 4. The 18th Hole, Harbour Town Golf Links
 5. The 9th Hole, Royal County Down Golf Club

The stunning collection of oils, watercolors and acrylics by America’s most recognized golf artists is on loan from the Academy of Golf Art and is presented in conjunction with the World of Golf exhibit.

Hours will be Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.

For more information on the exhibition, visit www.DelrayCenterForTheArts.org.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Devant Introduces PGA TOUR Licensed Collection

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Devant, known in the golf industry as the leading manufacturer of high quality custom golf towels, has added a PGA TOUR Licensed Collection to its 2013 line.

The PGA TOUR Collection features a 100 percent cotton Classic Edge towel that is ultra-soft and super absorbent. The towels are 16 X 25 inches and each design showcases the PGA TOUR logo complemented by a solid color border. The left corner of the towel has a solid brass Lock Clip attachment to make securing the towel onto the golf bag easy. The PGA TOUR logo is applied to the towel using Devant’s proprietary Image Dye process. The process uses eco-friendly soy-based dyes to infuse color into the fabric. This creates a luxurious towel with sharp logo that will outlast the lifespan of the towel. The towels are designed and finished in the USA.

The PGA TOUR Collection combines tradition and style in two designs −pinstripe and collage.  The pinstripe is available with the PGA TOUR logo in its more traditional form highlighted by a bold grey or green background. The collage design incorporates a stylish bright green or orange PGA TOUR logo into a unique and sporty background.

The PGA TOUR Licensed Collection is available at golf shops and golf specialty stores for a suggested retail of $19.95.

For information on Devant visit www.devantsporttowels.com, www.dynamicbrands.com or call customer service at 800.234.3487.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Boxgroove Adds The Woodlands Club

(BELLEVUE, Wash.) – Boxgroove (www.boxgroove.com), an inventive, reliable online network offering golfers the opportunity to play private golf courses of their choosing, has added The Woodlands Club, in Falmouth, Maine, to the selection of private courses Boxgroove members can play.

"Boxgroove members will love playing at the Woodlands Club, which has hosted many current and former PGA Tour players," said McRedmond Morelli, founder and CEO of Boxgroove. "And players won't want to miss the extraordinary practice facility at this course."

The Woodlands Club is a private, member-owned, recreational athletic and dining club established in 1988 for the social enjoyments of its members. The club's world-class 18-hole championship golf course, designed by George and Jim Fazio, is uncompromising in every detail. It was the site of the 1990-1993 Ben Hogan/Nike New England Classic. The course, featuring meticulously-maintained bent grass from tee to green, plays to 6,848 yards from the back tees and has a slope of 144.

"I've already received numerous comments from our membership on what a great program Boxgroove is," said Doug Van Wickler, PGA Director of Golf at The Woodlands Club. "We are always looking to differentiate our club from other private clubs, as well as provide more bang for our members' dues.

"While I am always happy to help our members locate a course and arrange a tee time while they travel, Boxgroove gives them almost 600 courses in 47 states to choose from. Boxgroove makes my job as the PGA Professional simpler.

"By offering Boxgroove to our members, it shows I am working to provide additional service to my members and looking outside the box to capture additional revenue for my club...all with the click of a computer. Thanks, Boxgroove, for making me look good."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

The 31st Superintendents Educational Institute in Nor Cal Nov. 12-13 at Oakhurst Country Club


(San Francisco, CA) - The Golf Course Superintendents Association of Northern California will host its 31st educational institute on Nov. 12-13 at Oakhurst Country Club in Clayton, CA.  The conference will showcase speakers covering topics which improve efficiency, communication, and compliance for golf course superintendents.

The speaker series will commence with Contra Costa County’s Department of Regulation Inspector Ralph Fonseca discussing worker safety and respiratory safety regulations with focus on compliance.

According to Institute Committee Chair Jon Christenson of Monarch Bay GL, day two will  commence with  co-presenters William Brown, CGCS, of Hartefeld National GC, and Brian Gilges, GCSAA IT Systems Manager, introducing the numerous features of Excel software--how it can streamline the budget process, increase efficiency in recording keeping and improve communication channels within a golf operation.  

Next, Speaker Brown will be joined by GCSANC Board Member Brian Boyer of Cinnabar Hills GC, and together they’ll address ways to take technology beyond Facebook and Twitter with focus on platforms that are well-designed for website development and/or a blog. They will demonstrate how to build a site and will share tech-driven tools (including mobile devices) which allow one to update content not just from the office, but from the course, too. Brown will wrap-up the tech tool session with an insightful presentation on the best iPad apps for today’s turfgrass manager.  As a superintendent who stays on the pulse of technology himself, Brown will share the very latest features in iPad applications spanning from financial management to irrigation control.

Equipment Manager Kevin Rendueles from the Olympic Club (home of the 2012 U.S. Open Championship), will take his session outside when he discusses mower setup, after cut appearance, quality of cut and sand mower management. This segment is slated to be hands-on and beneficial to turfgrass managers.

In addition to the speakers series the institute will include a trade show where industry representatives will showcase products and services.  The conference will culminate with team golf (5-person scramble) on Oakhurst’s Rod Fream-designed course.

“We’ve created a seminar that’s really a test drive of technology for attendees, packed with plenty of tech-based applications which they can easily add to their toolbox,” said Institute Event Chairman Jon Christenson. “These innovative tools will strengthen communication channels and improve efficiency for golf course superintendents both on-and-off the course.”

Conference fee is $175 for all sessions and which also includes the industry trade show reception, buffet lunch and afternoon golf. To learn more about the conference and/or for sponsorship opportunities please visit www.gcsanc.com/events/next/ or call GCSANC Association Manager Barbara Mikel at 877-942-7262. For more information on Institute Sponsor John Deere and their golf maintenance equipment plus soft goods and services, visit www.deere.com/wps/dcom/en_US/industry/golf/golf.page.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Saturday, October 27, 2012

SouthWood Celebrates 10th Anniversary


Award-winning Tallahassee golf course hosting two days of events, fundraising

(TALLAHASSEE, Fla.) - SouthWood Golf Club - the award-winning Fred Couples / Gene Bates-design owned by The St. Joe Company and managed by Billy Casper Golf - will celebrate its 10th anniversary November 18-19.

The celebration includes a number of special events for members and guests in the community. All activities are open to the public with funds benefitting golf programs at area high schools, Florida High and John Paul II.

The festivities commence November 18 with an evening social at the SouthWood House including food, raffle prizes and awards ceremony. On November 19 SouthWood will host a noon shotgun golf tournament and putting contest followed by a banquet and check presentation.

"We look forward to welcoming the entire Tallahassee community to celebrate the anniversary of SouthWood," says Beth Murphy, general manager. "It's been a tremendous 10 years, and we look forward to continuing to provide a great golf experience for our guests and our ongoing dedication to the local community."

The entry fee for the Sunday Social at the SouthWood house is $25 (complimentary for members) and $50 for the Monday Scramble Tournament ($20 for members). Sponsorships are available for $50 for families and $100 for corporate.

For more information or to sign up, call (850) 942-4652 or email info@southwoodgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Friday, October 26, 2012

Black Magic Golf Wedge Brings Ease to Any Short Game


The well-rounded golfer is the one whose skills at driving are equaled by his skills at their short game. In fact, without solid chipping and putting experience, even a 300-yard drive is likely to end in frustration, as the player loses stroke after stroke attempting to edge his way onto the putting green. For the golfer whose short game leaves something to be desired, Black Magic Wedge is proud to unveil its new 37 degree golf wedge, a next-generation chipper that is sure to appeal to golfers of every stripe and any caliber.

Black Magic Wedge's 37 degree chipper wedge is designed with just this goal in mind-to bring greater ease and efficacy to any player's short game. For those shots that make it clear that the work of a good chipper is in order, this is the golf wedge that players will want to reach for: It is designed to make these chip shots easier than ever before, as simple as that.

The golf wedge is very much in keeping with the usual high standard set by Black Magic Wedge, a premiere designer of hybrid wedges. Players will find that, remarkably, this wedge offers 7 iron power on full shots. At the same time, it delivers the ability to lay the face open for unparalleled height, bringing perfect spin and precision to your short shot without ever leading to shanking.

In fact, Black Magic Wedge has designed this wedge to be virtually impossible to shank, thanks to its precisely-engineered "No Hosel" design on the face. Meanwhile, the advanced "extra wide" sole lends this golf club exceptional bounce-meaning players are unlikely to find it getting caught in the sand or in the turf.

In all of its technical specifications, this Black Magic Wedge product conforms to all of the most recent USGA rules. It offers a head made of stainless steel; a 120 gram powder coated steel shaft, and a 284 gram head weight. This golf wedge also has a D-4 swing weight and an impact bounce angle of zero degrees.

All told, this golf wedge is designed to help players take their short game to the next level-period. In addition to a head cover, the club also comes with a booklet, offering up tips on how any player can bring greater precision and efficiency to his short game.

That is part of what Black Magic Wedge offers with this wedge: The chance to save strokes and improve your short game, making your way onto the green with greater ease than ever before.

The 37 degree wedge is available in custom lengths, ranging from 33 inches to 37 inches, at no additional cost. Information about ordering the product is available at blackmagicwedge.com.

Black Magic Wedge can be found on the web at www.blackmagicwedge.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

BrightSpot Solutions' Spotless Swing Golf Towel Now Available at Select Golfsmith Stores


(Boulder, CO) - Scott Salzman, inventor of the three-in-one Spotless Swing Golf Towel, and president of BrightSpot Solutions announced that their innovative towels are now in stock and available at select Golfsmith stores.

"We did a test run on Golfsmith.com and the sales were quickly successful. Golfsmith has now expanded the number of stores carrying Spotless Swing to 33 stores," said Salzman.

The revolutionary new Spotless Swing Golf Towel was introduced in January at the 2010 PGA Merchandise Show is now taking the golf accessories market by storm. It is being called the new "standard" in golf towels by industry insiders.

To view a list of Golfsmith stores which carry Spotless Swing, visit the store locator page at: www.spotlessswing.com/store_locator.

\Until Spotless Swing was developed, the only way to clean the mud and dirt off your golf clubs during your round was to water down a standard towel or use a brush. However, brushes are awkward and messy and a watered down towel dries out during your round rendering it useless.

Now there is an alternative. A portion of the inside of the Premium Multi-Use Spotless Swing Golf Towel is made of a uniquely designed MicroBrush fabric that easily cleans the grooves of the club-face where dirt hides from ordinary towels. The fabric is coarse enough to clean deeply into the grooves yet soft enough to not damage the golf club finish, and absolutely no water is needed. The ultra-high quality microfiber fabric that makes up main body of the Spotless Swing absorbs over 600% of its weight in dirt, mud and water.

The Spotless Swing Golf Towel functions as three golf towels in one:
1. Outside keeps the hands, face, glove and grips clean and dry;
2. Inside protects and preserves golf clubs by removing dirt, mud and water;
3. Revolutionary MicroBrush fabric cleans club grooves effortlessly preparing the club for its next shot.

The Spotless Swing is available in five colors: Black (with red trim), red (with black trim), solid black, pink and white. The golf towel conveniently attaches to any golf bag with the included carabineer clip.

Custom embroidery is available.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Junior Golf University Announces Skullcandy as a Sponsor of the PING Junior Interclub


(PHOENIX) – On the heels of completing the first season of the California PING Junior Interclub, Junior Golf University announced Skullcandy as a new sponsor of its flagship program.  Coincidentally, one of the company’s main offices is in San Clemente, Calif., the same area where the inaugural California PJI season launched earlier this fall.

Founded in 2003, Skullcandy is a leading audio brand with a passion for sports.  The company is focused on the youth lifestyle, providing innovative and distinctive products to the audio market in more than 70 countries.

The sponsorship will benefit both organizations.  In 2013, the PJI will expand to five new markets, introducing the Skullcandy brand and team-based tournaments to more than 1,000 junior golfers.

“We are excited to have Skullcandy as a sponsor of the PING Junior Interclub,” said John Souza, Executive Director of Junior Golf University.  “We both seek to reach youth, providing products, services and opportunities that complement their lifestyle.”

The PJI tournament series is managed by JGU, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization in Phoenix, Ariz.  The PJI provides junior golfers (boys and girls, ages 12-18) with team-based tournaments.  Five-person teams are formed by private, public and resort-style golf courses.  Each team competes in four or five PJI Divisional tournaments, one event hosted by each course within a Division.  Top finishers from each Division advance to post-season play.

JGU provides online tournament management for PJI events and administrative support to PJI teams. In 2008, eight teams from the Phoenix area participated in the first season of the PJI. The program has experienced tremendous growth, expanding in 2012 to 72 teams with more than 500 junior golfers in four states.
   
Skullcandy joins PING, Under Armour, Aldila, New Era, ECCO, Golfweek and CMC Golf as a sponsor.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

LPGA Legend Dottie Pepper Debuts as a Special Guest on GOLFBETTER


(FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla.) - Edwin Watts Golf Shops, one of the world’s largest specialty golf retailers, announced that LPGA legend and current NBC Sports/Golf Channel Reporter Dottie Pepper will be this week’s special guest on “GOLFBETTER,” the retailer’s popular Podcast series.

Pepper, who will serve as an Assistant Captain for the United States team at the 2013 Solheim Cup, joins “GOLFBETTER” host Tom Brassell to discuss a number of topics, including her role at the upcoming Solheim Cup; learning the game as a youngster in New York; her time at Furman University; and her memories of competing on the LPGA TOUR, highlighted by 28 professional victories, including two majors.

Additionally, Pepper, who is a huge proponent of the golf industry’s new growth of the game initiatives, discusses the new children’s book she co-authored, “Bogey Tees Off,” which encourages kids to play the game of golf.  Proceeds from her book sales support the Folds of Honor and LPGA Foundations.

Since its inception, the “GOLFBETTER” Podcast franchise has served as one of the leading voices in the industry, providing a platform for golf ambassadors and influencers, including executives from the game’s leading equipment brands, to educate, inform and entertain golfing consumers.  Interview topics have included innovative new products & services, the importance of custom fit products, golf history, growth of the game initiatives, and much more, while some of golf’s greatest names have shared interesting and entertaining stories with Edwin Watts Golf’s loyal Podcast audience.

To tune in to the latest episode of “GOLFBETTER,” visit www.edwinwattsgolf.com, and click on the “golfbetterpodcast” banner.  All episodes are available in the “GOLFBETTER” archives.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Nike Golf Releases New Method Technology with the Nike Method Core Weighted Putter


Polymetal Groove Technology combined with a weighting system

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – With professional wins across the globe, Nike Method technology delivers putting confidence. Creating and innovating never stops at Nike Golf with the newest edition to its Method franchise, the Method Core Weighted putter.

The Nike Method Core Weighted putter utilizes fixed weights on the heel and sole of the putter to provide proper weighting by putter length. The weights help to lower the center of gravity as well as move the center of gravity away from the face.

David Franklin, Nike Golf Master Modelmaker, stated, “Most people don’t realize that they are about 3/10 of an inch above the ground at impact. You need to keep the center of gravity of the putter as low as you can so that it never gets higher than the CG of the ball. This stops the putter from driving the ball down and creating backspin on the ball.”

The Method Core Weighted putter works to solve this potential putting inconsistency with its strategically designed weighting system. Franklin continued, “With the Method Core Weighted technology, we worked to get the center of gravity lower than the ball, enabling the putter to rise up at impact, lift the ball and turn it over quickly.”

The Method Core Weighted putter delivers stability and absolute confidence when every putt counts. Nike Method technology utilizes a milled face and Polymetal Grooves that have been proven on global professional tours to generate a more true and consistent roll, keeping putts on target.

The revolutionary Method putter technology was born of innovation and fueled by the demands of Nike Golf’s Tour athletes.  This major-winning innovation delivers the roll, feel, and sound necessary for clutch putts in big moments. The Method Core insert is a combination of aluminum face and polymer grooves to lessen impact and vibrations and provide pure sound and feel.

Nike Golf’s Method Core Weighted putters will be available Nov. 1 in five models, each with a lustrous tour satin chrome finish (4 blades; 1 mallet). The MC01w will also be available in a left-handed version.

Nike Method Core Weighted Putter
* Available: 11/1/2012
* MSRP/MAP: $169/$139.99
* Specifications: MC01w RH/LH 2.0˚ 33"/34"/35"; MCO2w RH 2.0˚ 33"/34"/35"; MC03w RH 2.0˚ 33"/34"/35"; MCO4w RH 2.0˚ 33"/34"/35"; MC11w RH 2.0˚ 33"/34"/35"/41"/43"

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Oxford Golf to Attend 2013 PGA Merchandise Show with New Women's, Men's Apparel Items

Oxford Golf, a leading golf apparel brand selling both men's and women's apparel, announced its plans to attend the 60th anniversary of the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla. The large trade show will give the golf apparel brand the opportunity to showcase new products for 2013 as well as meet with industry leaders. The show is Jan. 24 to Jan. 26, at the Orange County Convention Center.

"Oxford Golf looks forward to the PGA Merchandise Show each year, and for 2013 we are especially excited to bring new apparel items for pros and media alike to see for the first time," said Dave Leveille, President of Oxford Golf.

Included in this year's new items are:
• A larger-than-ever assortment of women's golf apparel pieces, including new feminine polos, golf shorts and golf skorts.
• New men's golf pants in a variety of great spring and fall colors.
• Outerwear pieces perfect for golfing in any weather
• New colors and styles of the signature Super Dry CoolMax Performance Polos Oxford Golf is known for.

Oxford Golf will be showing in the main exhibition hall for the week. Also of note, the company will have giveaways and some great deals for customers who place orders during the week of the event. For details, make sure to come by the Oxford Golf booth.

For more information, visit Oxford Golf Group's website at www.oxfordgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Tony Branham Named Head Golf Pro at Cobblestone Park Country Club in Columbia, SC


(Alpharetta, Ga.) - Affiniti Golf Partners (www.affinitigolf.com) has named Tony Branham head golf professional at Cobblestone Park Golf Club in Columbia, SC, according to Director of Operations Lee Andrea.

A Columbia native, Branham began his golf career as an assistant professional at Spring Valley Country Club in Columbia. He subsequently was head golf professional at Golden Hills Golf Club in Lexington, SC.

Branham most recently was head teaching professional at The Golf Club at Indigo Run on Hilton Head Island. While on the island Branham qualified for and competed in the PGA Tour's RBC Heritage Classic played on the Harbour Town Golf Links.

Branham brings an extensive knowledge in club fitting and launch monitor applications as game improvement tools in his instructional programs.

Says Andrea, "We're very pleased to have Tony on the Affiniti team. His vast experience in operations, golf instruction and Tour-caliber competition brings a unique set of skills to Cobblestone Park Golf Club."

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Gainey Wins McGladrey Classic with Callaway Equipment, Odyssey Putter


A stellar 10-under 60 in the final round propels Gainey to first PGA Tour victory

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) - Callaway Golf Company announced that Staff Professional Tommy "Two Gloves" Gainey won the McGladrey Classic at the Sea Island Golf Club on Sunday with a full bag of Callaway clubs, including the Company's flagship RAZR Fit Driver and its HEX Black Tour Ball. Gainey posted an incredible final round performance, shooting a 10-under 60 to come from seven shots off the lead to win. Gainey's 60 was the lowest round on the PGA Tour this year and it helped him secure his first career PGA Tour win.

Besides the RAZR Fit Driver and the HEX Black Tour Ball, Two Gloves used RAZR X Forged Irons, Callaway Forged Wedges (50°, 54°, 60°) and he caught fire with his Odyssey Backstryke Blade Putter to earn the victory. His Odyssey putter, which has been in the bag since 2010, is an innovative, T-shaped model with a stroke balance shaft. He ranked second in the field in putts per round, second in putts per GIR, third in strokes gained - putting, and he needed just 24 putts during the final round. The Camden, SC-native also hit 79.2% of greens for the week, including 16 of 18 greens on Sunday.

When asked post-round what had come around for him this week, Gainey was quick to answer: "Well, actually Callaway. Callaway has supplied me with a new set of golf clubs, a new set of irons, the RAZR X, and I'll tell you what, they worked out pretty well for me this week," he said. "So I'm happy to be on Team Callaway."

Gainey first gained national exposure as a contestant on Golf Channel's "Big Break V" and later won "Big Break VII". He developed the habit of wearing two gloves after playing baseball as a kid, and he made a living as an assembly line worker in South Carolina before he pursued a professional golf career. Gainey has competed on the Gateway Tour, Hooters Tour, Egolf Tarheel Tour, Nationwide Tour (now the Web.com Tour) and the PGA Tour. He first competed on the PGA Tour in 2008 and played full-time on the Nationwide Tour in 2010. He won two Nationwide events that year, finished fourth on the final money list and secured his PGA Tour card. Since joining the PGA Tour, Gainey has drawn plenty of fans with his humble attitude, homemade swing and preference for wearing two golf gloves when he plays.

For more information please visit www.callawaygolf.com or shop.callawaygolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Loudmouth Launches Solid Colored Pants

Loudmouth Golf launches a line of solid black and white Element pants to compliment their bright tops

(Foster City, CA) - Loudmouth Golf, the leader in bold golf apparel, has launched a line of solid black and solid white Element pants. No, the Loudmouth founder and chief designer didn't go on vacation; Woody simply wanted to create a line for guys who like to turn the Loudmouth design sensibility upside down and wear loud on the top and solid on the bottom.

"Designing black and white pants for the Loudmouth collection was ironic," says Loudmouth Golf founder and designer, Woody. "As we continue to expand our line of bright fancy tops, creating a solid pant for our customers was necessary. These are the loudest black and white pants ever made."

Loudmouth's Element pants are made in a new micro-tech stretch that is both comfortable and stylish. The pants are currently available at www.LoudmouthGolf.com

Chase54 Releases Spring Line


(Atlanta, GA) - Chase54 unveiled its 2013 Spring line, the Americano Collection. The collection features a modern take on American iconic styling like GT stripes, classic red, white, and blue colorways, while integrating the most advanced fabrics in the garment industry.

"The Americano Collection is our first full line introduction to the market and we couldn't be more excited. Both the men and women's lines look amazing," said Adam DeVille, the brand's Operations Director. "Consumers will love our take on some classic American imagery, and once they put the piece on, they will be blown away by how good it looks, feels, and performs."

Fabric highlights include:
* DryFuse: DryFuse Fabric Technology utilizes a weave process that produces the fastest moisture wicking fabric known to garment makers. The hydrophilic side of the DryFuse fabric comes in contact with the skin and sweat, absorbing any moisture and forcing it away from the body. The hydrophobic side pulls that moisture to the surface and wicks the moisture, allowing for faster evaporation.
* Moistex is an innovative fabric made from recovered cotton waste, which is knitted on the underside of the fabric for a cooling and soft touch to the skin. A moisture wicking yarn is used on the fabric surface, which moves sweat away from the body.
* Coffee Yarn Fabrics: An eco-friendly sustainable fabric is derived from 36% recycled coffee grounds and blended with 64% polyester. Fabric features include natural odor absorption, UV protection, and moisture wicking properties with an enhanced breathability and dryness from the pique stitching.

The Americano Collection will be available in green grass locations as well as online at chase54.com/shop/.

Chase54 is actively seeking sales representatives to grow the brand in the US market. Interested independent sales reps should contact Jay Baker at jay@chase54.com for more information.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Troon Selected to Manage The Gallery

Regarded as One of the Country's Top Golf Communities

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) - Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing, has been selected to manage The Gallery (www.gallerygolf.com) in Marana, Ariz. near Tucson. Set in the beautiful Tortolita Mountains, The Gallery is characterized by breathtaking vistas, a luxurious residential community and two highly acclaimed courses that offer the finest in desert golf.

The North Course, which is exclusively private to members, is marked by sweeping views of the high Sonoran desert landscape. Designed by John Fought and Tom Lehman, the North Course has been acknowledged as one of Golfweek's "Top 100 Modern Courses." The South Course, featuring subtle elevation changes among thousands of towering saguaros, is also designed by Fought and previously hosted the World Golf Championships - Accenture Match Play Championship in 2007 and 2008.

"The Gallery rivals some of the best golf communities in the country," said John Easterbrook, Troon's executive vice president, operations. "We are honored to have been selected by them and are confident that our management practices will contribute positively to the experience of the members and guests."

Along with championship golf, members of The Gallery also enjoy the Gallery Sports Club, one of the finest fitness and recreational facilities in the Southwest. The 12,000-square-foot multi-purpose facility offers a complete line of state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training equipment. Various programs are offered to meet the needs of members, including golf-specific training, yoga, pilates, personal training, a wide variety of group exercise classes and much more.

"Following an exhaustive search of top golf course management firms in the U.S., we selected Troon to manage The Gallery," said Art Powell, managing partner of The Gallery Golf Club. "We're excited to introduce new programs that enhance our club's overall experience. Members may also enjoy reciprocal play at other private Troon-managed clubs, and benefit from preferred rates at Troon's daily fee and resort facilities around the world."

Residents of The Gallery in Dove Mountain delight in a community placed at the center of year-round outdoor recreation, an array of fine dining and shopping opportunities, and, of course, world-class golf. Careful planning has preserved Dove Mountain's natural beauty, while creating neighborhoods that take full advantage of desert, mountain and golf course views.

The Gallery joins more than 30 elite private clubs that have already joined the ranks of Troon Privé, a division of Troon dedicated specifically to overseeing private facilities. The Troon Privé portfolio includes such private clubs of distinction as BallenIsles in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; Fieldstone in Greenville, Del.; Silver Creek Valley in San Jose, Calif.; St. James Plantation in Southport, N.C.; Pronghorn in Bend, Ore.; Ocean Club in Paradise Island, Bahamas; Settlers Run in Cranbourne South, Victoria, Australia; and Bearwood Lakes in London, England.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Keep Your Golf Game Hot in Casa de Campo

Casa de Campo’s fall/winter packages combine rounds on the Caribbean’s top courses with loads of amenities from this world-class resort

(La Romana, D.R.) - Just because the temperatures are dropping is no reason to put the golf clubs away. Casa de Campo—the best resort in the Caribbean, featuring the region’s number-one-ranked golf course—has ways to keep you having fun and your game sharp.

The “Golf Lodge” packages combine rounds on the 63 holes of Pete Dye-designed courses with accommodations, meals, and unlimited use of some of the resort’s most in-demand amenities. Both the four-night and seven-night packages include:

Golf
* Unlimited golf on The Links, an 18-hole Dye design featuring subtle elevation changes, lots of sand, and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea
* One round on the world-famous Teeth of the Dog course—ranked number-one in the Caribbean and 43 in the world by Golf magazine
* One round on Dye Fore, the wide and windy 27-hole layout located high above the Chavon River (for seven-day-package guests only)
* Shared cart for 18 holes daily
* Unlimited range balls
* Club storage

Accommodations, dining, and more
* A centrally located Golf Lodge room with complimentary wireless internet access
* Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
* Unlimited drinks by the glass at resort bars and restaurants
* Unlimited use of the gym/fitness center

Both Teeth of the Dog and The Links were recently renovated under Pete Dye’s guidance. As well, more than $40 million has been spent upgrading many other parts of the 7,000-acre resort, including new restaurants, public areas, and the main pool deck.

No surprise, then, that Casa de Campo was recently named the Caribbean’s Leading Golf Resort, for the fifth consecutive year, at the Caribbean and Americas 2012 World Travel Awards. The resort also was named among the top 20 family and top 20 golf resorts by the readers of Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report newsletter.

“Golf Lodge” packages begin at $1,128 for four nights, $1,997 for seven nights, per person, double occupancy, and are available from November 1-December 20, 2012, and again from January 4-April 30, 2013.

For more information, call 1-800-877-3643 or visit www.casadecampo.com.do.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

TaylorMade Golf Company Introduces RocketBladez Irons


King Calls New Iron Technology a 'Once in a Lifetime Innovation'

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) − TaylorMade Golf Company President and CEO Mark King announced the arrival of what he says is the biggest iron innovation to date. Today, via a global webcast (click HERE), King officially introduced RocketBladez, an iron with a remarkable new technology that promotes high launching, long, straight and quick-stopping performance for golfers of all abilities.

RocketBladez’ key new technology is its “Speed Pocket,” inspired by the distance-enhancing benefits of the RocketBallz fairway woods and Rescue clubs. TaylorMade engineers incorporated the Speed Pocket into RocketBladez irons to promote faster ball speed and a higher launch angle to promote longer, high-flying, quick-stopping shots. Altogether, the RocketBladez set consists of eleven individually designed clubheads, each tailored in size, shape and features to maximize distance, control and feel like never before.

“Metalwoods have advanced tremendously since TaylorMade introduced the first one in 1979,” said King. “The ball has advanced too, and even footwear and apparel have improved a great deal. But there hasn’t been a significant advancement in irons since the perimeter-weighted cavityback was introduced more than 50 years ago. The Speed Pocket changes that – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime innovation in the iron category. If your iron doesn’t have a Speed Pocket, your iron is out-dated.”
 
Incorporated into the 3- through 7-irons, the Speed Pocket is a 2mm-wide slot in the sole of the iron that flexes and rebounds at impact, increasing the speed of the face to promote faster ball speed, a higher launch angle and a higher, stronger ball flight that lands on a steep, quick-stopping descent angle.

The Speed Pocket advantage is especially effective on impacts made low on the face, TaylorMade studies indicate that 68% of iron shots by amateur golfers are mis-hits below the center of the face. The Speed Pocket helps to significantly increase ball speed and distance on those low-face mis-hits.

Tour professionals will also benefit from the distance benefits of the Speed Pocket, as TaylorMade is also offering a RocketBladez Tour model. Unlike other distance irons, the RocketBladez Tour iron delivers consistent distance and is void of “hot spots” on the clubface, to ensure predictability and distance consistency from shot to shot.

“We created RocketBladez irons for amateurs, but when our Tour Staff pros tried it, they wanted it,” said King. “We created a Tour version, and they love it. It’s the first distance-oriented iron to be played on Tour.  The genius of the Speed Pocket is that not only does it deliver more speed for more distance, it delivers consistent speed, so shots fly a consistent distance. That combination of speed and consistent distance is what made the eyes of our tour pros light up.”

The 3- through 7-irons boast the most sophisticated clubface TaylorMade has ever created for a Tour iron, fashioned from fast, high-strength stainless steel with improved Inverted Cone design. Consistent distance gaps throughout the set made possible by careful management of the Speed Pocket, Inverted Cone, face thickness, CG location, loft and shaft length.
RocketBladez irons are priced at $799 with steel shafts, $899 with graphite shafts, and are available for pre-order on October 23. The irons hit retail starting Dec. 3. RocketBladez Tour Irons will be available at retail Feb. 1, 2013 for $899. Learn more at taylormadegolf.com.

Tech Talk

Speed Pocket
The Speed Pocket flexes and reflexes at impact to add speed to the clubface, which increases ball speed and launch angle. The Speed Pocket is filled with a specially formulated polyurethane developed by 3M that quiets vibration without significantly slowing/inhibiting the flex of the pocket, while also keeping debris out. In conjunction with the highly sophisticated face design (11% thinner than our previous thinnest), adds up to 10 COR points to the face compared to Burner 2.0 irons, and promotes dramatically less drop-off in ball speed on impacts low on the face—where the majority of iron mis-hits occur. That means the COR low on the face is higher than it’s ever been in a TaylorMade iron, and the benefit is that thin shots carry significantly farther.

Ultra-thin clubface with improved Inverted Cone design
The RocketBladez clubface (both models) consists of strong, maraging stainless steel. It’s our most sophisticated clubface design yet, made possible by more evolved analysis and testing and our increasing mastery of the manufacturing processes. It’s the thinnest iron face TaylorMade has ever created, with the top section now 1.6 mm, down from 1.8 – that’s 11% thinner. Both new RocketBladez iron models also incorporate our most newest and most effective iteration of Inverted Cone Technology. The improved Inverted Cone design delivers two critical benefits. One, it increases the size of the clubface area that delivers high ball speed. Two, it influences how the face flexes and rebounds at impact to control the angle at which the ball leaves the face, promoting straighter shots and a tighter dispersion. This is a critical benefit that promotes significantly greater accuracy compared to previous high COR irons.

Low and centered CG location
Impacting the ball where the CG is located on the face is critical to achieving maximum ball speed. In both RocketBladez iron models, TaylorMade engineers fine-tuned the CG to a low and absolutely centered location on the face by shortening the hosel to save weight and taking additional weight from the top of the club, then redistributing it all in strategic areas within the head. In the RocketBladez clubhead design, 17.5 grams of redistributed weight enabled us to lower the CG by 2.5 mm compared to the Burner 2.0 iron.  Locating the CG lower and in the center of the face makes it easier to consistently find the sweetspot to achieve maximum energy transfer from club to ball, promoting a higher launch angle and maximum distance.

External and internal hosel-bending notches
RocketBladez irons (both models) feature a distinct external notch on the outer, rear side of the hosel and an internal notch inside that together make it easy to bend the head to change the lie angle. That’s a distinct advantage to bendability when employing high-strength stainless steel in the head construction.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Monday, October 22, 2012

Nike Athletes Pettersen, Henley Win Big for the Swoosh


Each won with a full bag of Nike Golf equipment including the Nike 20XI Ball and Method Putter 

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – The Nike Swoosh clenched two wins this weekend thanks to performances by Nike Golf Athletes Suzann Pettersen and Russell Henley.  Pettersen secured her ninth career victory on the LPGA Tour at the KEB Hanabank Championship and Henley captured his second victory in three starts on the Web.com Tour at the Winn-Dixie Jacksonville Open.  Both Nike Golf athletes won in sudden death playoffs.

Pettersen sealed her victory on the third playoff hole by sinking a five-foot birdie putt with her Nike Method Putter, which features Nike’s polymetal groove technology, generating a faster forward roll at impact for increased accuracy.

Along with the 14 Nike clubs in her bag, Pettersen also played with Nike’s 20XI X ball, which utilizes Nike’s Resin Core technology.  This new innovative technology provides a lighter, faster and more responsive core than rubber core technology. Nike Resin Core technology allows for less spin off the driver and more spin off the wedge, creating greater distance and control.

Henley, who recently joined the Nike Golf Tour staff, is becoming known for making clutch putts en route to victory.  For the second time in his young professional career, Henley made a crucial putt with his Nike Method putter to win. Playing with 14 Nike clubs and the Nike 20XI X ball, Henley is ranked first in greens in regulation on the Web.com Tour. Henley has now moved into the top five on the Web.com money list.

In addition to playing with Nike Golf equipment, both Pettersen and Henley wore Nike Golf Apparel from the Performance line and footwear that features Nike’s successful Lunar technology.

Pettersen’s Nike Golf Arsenal 
Driver: Nike VR Str8-FIT 9.5 degree
Fairway Woods: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 3 Wood
Hybrid: VR_S 18 degree
Irons: Nike VR Pro 4; Nike Pro Cavity 5; Nike Pro Split Cavity 6-P
Wedges: VR 48 Blade; VR 53 degree and 59 degree
Putter: Nike Method 001
Ball:  20XI X
Footwear: Nike Lunar Links
Apparel: Nike Tour Performance Women’s Collection

Henley’s Nike Golf Arsenal
Driver: Nike VR_S  9.5-degree
Fairway Wood: Nike SQ ll 13-degree,
Irons: Nike VR Pro Cavity 3, 5-6; Nike VR Pro Combo (7-9)
Hybrids:  Nike VR Pro 18-degree
Wedges: Nike VR Pro 47-degree, 51-degree, 55-degree, 59-degree
Putter: Nike Method 006 prototype
Ball: Nike 20XI X
Apparel:  Nike Golf Tour Performance
Footwear:  Nike Lunar Control

Nike Golf’s 2012 PGA Tour Victories
Tiger Woods – AT&T National
Tiger Woods – The Memorial Tournament
Carl Pettersson – RBC Heritage
Tiger Woods – Arnold Palmer Invitational

Nike Golf’s 2012 International Tour Victories
Carly Booth – Deutsche Bank Swiss Open (Ladies European Tour)
Francesco Molinari – Reale Seguros Open de Espana (PGA European Tour)
Carly Booth – Abderdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottis Open (Ladies European Tour)

Nike Golf’s 2012 LPGA Victories
Suzann Pettersen- KEB HanaBank Championship

Nike Golf’s 2012 Web.com Tour Victories
Russell Henley – Chiquita Classic
Russell Henley- Winn-Dixie Jacksonville Open

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Antigua Introduces Spring 2013 Women's Collection


(PEORIA, AZ) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of genuine sports apparel under its Antigua brand - is excited to unveil their Spring 2013 Women's collection.

The Antigua Spring 2013 Women's Collection offers a fresh new color palette - one that is brighter than past collections while still appealing to the sophistication of the traditional lady golfer.

Each garment in the Spring '13 collection has its own appeal - collar treatments range from stylized mandarin collars to the more traditional tipped flat knit. Scalloped trims & abstract prints are also just a few of the chic sporty details the collection features. Washed down florescent colors along with deep saturated brights mixed with khaki, white and black, allow for endless merchandising options.

"I really wanted to create a group of product that was innovative and refreshing. By offering new fabric textures and combinations of color, we were able to achieve that 'fresh' look I was searching for," said Danielle Dellios, Antigua Women's Head Designer.

COLOR DETAILS:
The Antigua Women's Collection color palette was developed based on only the most current trends, and for 2013 the overall market is screaming for color.

The new women's color palette has been expanded with a total of six hues ranging from hot pink to a soft purple called "pansy". Other color names such as 'fountain' and 'kiss' inspire memories of slow summer days and nights in the Caribbean.

"We've had great success with our white & black groups over the years, so by expanding our offering of fashion color with neutrals, the customer can purchase one or several items from the collection and mix it with their current wardrobe," said Danielle Dellios.

Black/White Collection:
Antigua's most successful color group, the Black/White collection has become a staple in the Antigua women's line, and pieces from this collection are essential in any lady golfer's wardrobe. These timeless colors bring together a sophisticated look, especially when paired with khaki bottoms. Or pair with bold colors and prints to create a variety of styling options.

A great addition to any essentials golf wardrobe is the GEM Desert-Dry™ polo offered in both black or in white, and features a tonal geometric jacquard print in a fabric that has been developed exclusively for Antigua.

Kiss/Strawberry Collection:
The Kiss/Strawberry collection is inspired by a dreamy Caribbean sunset, shades of pink slowly swirling together in the horizon. Two new hues of pink are introduced this season; 'strawberry' is lively in color and sure to be a bold and juicy addition to any wardrobe, while 'kiss' adds a calm uplifting touch of pink to the collection.

The Imprint Desert Dry Xtra-Lite D2XL short sleeve raglan polo in Strawberry Multi features multi-color graphic print cuffs on the sleeve and back insert. This polo is stylish and comfortable, allowing a full range of motion and manages moisture.

Fountain/Sapphire Collection:
The cool blues in the Fountain/Sapphire collection will add a splash of color to a lady golfer's wardrobe for spring 2013. This collection is inspired by the expanse of blue sky, water glistening in the sunlight, and the crash of waves in the ocean.

Cool off in the Delight Desert Dry sleeveless polo in the color Sapphire, with a dyed to match knit color and ribbon trim detail.

Pansy/Orchid Collection:
The inspiration for the Pansey/Orchid Collection is a peaceful botanical garden. 'Pansey' is calm and feminine, while the mystical 'orchid' is vibrant and energetic.

The Hypnotic Desert Dry jacquard bubble texture half sleeve polo in the color Orchid is the perfect combination of comfort and style. The Hypnotic Polo has a contrast mandarin collar and button placket, as well as a tee pocket on the sleeve in the color shore. The fabric construction is exclusive to Antigua, and features moisture management properties.

FABRIC:
When it comes to fabric, Antigua has always prided itself on innovation. Whether texture, yarn quality or chemical treatments, Antigua is always experimenting with new ideas.

This season new textures were developed & using finer yarns were used to create super lightweight textured knits that gives the traditional polo a unique appearance. By using the finest denier yarns available, Antigua has achieved super soft, super lightweight fabrics that provide the same coverage as other poly knits, but allow for faster wicking.

DESERT DRY Technology is a moisture wicking technology created exclusively for Antigua to absorb and wick moisture quickly & evenly to achieve the most efficient evaporation possible to keep you comfortable and dry.

DESERT DRY XTRA-LITE (D2XL) combines Antigua's exclusive DESERT DRY moisture-wicking feature with specially constructed ultra-light fabrics for maximum wicking performance and optimum comfort.

"It is because of these innovations in fabric technology that Antigua has really been able to expand on the "Desert Dry Xtra-Lite" concept," said Danielle Dellios.

For more information on Antigua, visit www.antigua.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

KemperSports Names Bob Swezey as General Manager of Andover Golf and Country Club


(NORTHBROOK, Ill.) - KemperSports, a leading golf course management company, has announced the appointment of Bob Swezey as General Manager of Andover Golf and Country Club in Lexington, Ky. Swezey has more than 30 years' experience in the golf industry, including previous positions with KemperSports from 2001-2005 as a regional director of operations and general manager..

"We are delighted to have Bob on board as the general manager of Andover," said KemperSports chief executive officer Steve Skinner. "Bob is a strong manager and very member focused."

Swezey most recently served as executive vice president of golf operations for Burroughs & Chapin Company in Myrtle Beach, S.C. from 2005-2012. At Burroughs & Chapin, Swezey managed operations for nine golf facilities in the Myrtle Beach-area, including Grande Dunes Resort, Tidewater Golf Club and Pine Lakes Country Club.

Prior to his tenure in South Carolina, Swezey's experience includes four years as the PGA Club Manager at Fawn Lake Country Club in Spotsylvania, Va. and two years as the PGA head golf professional at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

"I'm excited about returning to the KemperSports family and delivering a first-class experience for members and guests at Andover," said Swezey.

Opened in 1989 and designed by Clyde Johnston, Andover features an 18-hole golf course situated in the Bluegrass landscape of the Andover community, delivering a true test of golf with water in play on 11 of the 18 holes. Andover features additional amenities including a Junior Size Olympic swimming pool, tennis courts and clubhouse.

For more information about Andover Golf and Country Club, visit www.golfandover.com. For more information about KemperSports and its properties, please visit www.kempersports.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

STX Golf Fall Facebook Promotion to Give Away Free PGA Tour Proven Sync Series Putters


(BALTIMORE, MD) - STX Golf, world-renowned as an industry pioneer in putter innovation with its patented Soft Face Insert Technology, announced that the company has launched its Fall Facebook promotion.

According to STX Director of Golf Steve Henneman, "We will be giving away PGA Tour and Web.com proven Sync Series Putters to three lucky winners. Our goal is to have the winners experience firsthand the benefits of our putters and at the same time grow the brand though Facebook."

The STX Golf Fall Facebook promotion is easy to participate in. Simply visit the STX Golf Facebook page and click on the "Contest" icon which will forward the site to the registration form. Fill the information out accordingly and click - submit. It is that easy.

The randomly selected winners will be notified on Halloween, October 31st which marks the end of the Fall Facebook promotion.

"The winners can choose any STX Sync Series model. We think that they will probably want the STX Sync 7 Putter because of its Tour success or the STX Sync 5 Putter because of its retail success," adds Henneman.

The STX Sync Series has been used on the PGA Tour for decades and has been used to capture 12 PGA Tour events but is relatively new on the Web.com Tour. It was introduced this spring. In this short period of time, the Sync Series has been played to close six Top-10 finishes, including a second place finish at the WNB Classic and a third place finish at the Rex Hospital Open, one stroke behind the champion.

The STX Sync (SS) Line of Putters:

The original Sync Tour Pro now named the STX SS1 Putter has been credited with many PGA Tour victories including a PGA Championship. The STX signature bullet back design puts weight directly behind the sweet spot which is proven to keep any stroke on line and provide unprecedented balance and feel.

The award winning STX SS2 Putter resembles its predecessor, the Sync Tour Mallet. It is a contemporary mallet that features the signature STX bullet back design which is an element that the PGA Tour Professionals credit to its incredible balance.

The STX SS3 Putter is a contemporary blade putter that gracefully blends alignment aids with soft curves. This toe down or toe weighted model is heel shafted with a step-less shaft for those golfers with an arching stroke.

For the golfer who prefers a more traditional blade, the STX SS4 Putter will inspire their putting. It is visually appealing, particularly at address. To keep the hands forward during the entire putting stroke, the STX SS4 features heel-toe weighting with a plumbers neck hosel.

A flare neck hosel that seamlessly connects the head and shaft makes the SS5 Putter a true standout. This traditionally styled and inspired blade has been designed to slightly keep your hands forward during the stroke and as with the other Sync Series blade putters, the SS5 is toe weighted for those golfers with an arching putting stroke.

The STX SS6 Putter is a contemporary blade with an elegant exterior pad line and flange which creates a uniquely shaped head. Additional weighting has been precisely distributed to provide head stability at impact for greater accuracy. This heel shafted putter keeps the hands forward during the entire putting stroke.

The SS7 Putter features a heavier head with perimeter weighting, perfectly suited for both belly and long length putters. Its wing-like sections add balance with weight. These segments are also designed for an easy, non-drag take away. Optic openings aid with alignment as well as weight distribution.

The STX entire line of Sync Series is equipped with "F.E.E.L" technology (Friction Enhancing Elastomer Layer) inserts. This patented STX technology dramatically increases the coefficient of friction to put a greater amount of topspin on the ball and keeps the putt on line. The Soft Face Insert Keeps the ball in contact with the putter longer to also provide superior directional control decreased ball skid and reduced ball deformation.

Visit the company website, www.stxgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Royal Isabela Opens with Help from Leading Puerto Rican Officials

Tourism and local government officials participate in grand opening of spectacular golf community dedicated to protecting the local environment

(ISABELA, Puerto Rico) - Royal Isabela - the $100 million golf community and private membership club perched on dramatic bluffs at the northwest edge of Puerto Rico - has officially opened.

Present at the grand-opening ceremonies were Luis Rivera-Marin, Director of the PR Tourism Company (PRTC), the Honorable Carlos Delgado, Mayor of Isabela and other local politicians and officials. They joined the founders of Royal Isabela-brothers Stanley and Charlie Pasarell and Edwin Perez, a well-known business leader in Puerto Rico-in the traditional ribbon cutting ceremony.

Royal Isabela, which stretches along 426 oceanfront acres on top of cliffs that soar from 150 to 350 feet above the ocean, is the Pasarells' gift to Puerto Rico. Former collegiate and professional tennis stars, they became golfers after their tennis-playing days were over and vowed to develop a world-class golf course and exceptional community on their native island.

It took 10 years to find the land, secure permits, and build the wide variety of amenities, which include the golf course (designed with architect David Pfaff), clubhouse, 20 luxury casitas, restaurant and tennis courts. There also are 28 home sites on property and room for up to 50 fairway villas.

"Luxury has a new meaning altogether at Royal Isabela," said PRTC's Luis Rivera-Marin, at the event. "Not only is the location spectacular, but the casitas, the golf links, the restaurant, the whole concept behind this unique resort elevates the standard of accommodations in the Porta del Sol touristic region of Puerto Rico to a new level. We welcome this new addition to our hotel inventory and thank the partners of this paradise for their vision and commitment to the destination."

More than developing the land, the Pasarells are devoted to preserving it. To that end, they established the El Pastillo Conservation Trust to protect and nurture this beautiful and environmentally diverse corner of the island. Among the trust's responsibilities are an on-property nursery for trees, flowers, and golf turf grass, and an organic farm that gives work to homeless men with disabilities.

Every amenity at Royal Isabela is at the top of its class. The Golf Links at Royal Isabela opened in 2011 and was immediately named one of Golf Magazine's top courses to watch and "Best of the Best" by Robb Report. Award-winning chef David Pasternack of New York's famed ESCA created the main restaurant, La Casa. It features farm-to-table dining, with most of the fruit, vegetables, and herbs coming from local soil and the seafood from coastal waters.

With its official opening, Royal Isabela is ready to be enjoyed-now and for generations to come.

For additional information or to reserve rooms, access the web site at www.royalisabela.com or call (787) 609-5888 or (855) 609-5888.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com