Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection featured on cover of Hemispheres Magazine

The United Airlines Lifestyle Publication Spotlights the Property and its 12,000 Blue Ridge Mountain Acres

(MEADOWS OF DAN, Virginia) – Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, the latest addition to Auberge’s portfolio of award-winning hotels, resorts and residences, has been featured in the June 2021 issue of Hemispheres, United Airlines’ inflight publication. The magazine’s ‘Three Perfect Days: Virginia’ highlights the Commonwealth, recommending stops at a variety of sites, including Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection. 

“The article showcases the finest places that Virginia has to offer,” said Julee Midden, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We look forward to welcoming guests who discover Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection through the trusted Hemispheres’ article.”  

The majestic all-season mountain retreat is located at the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains on 12,000 expansive acres. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection offers luxurious accommodations, a championship golf course, exquisite farm-to-table cuisine helmed by executive chef Elliot Cunniff from Soho House in New York City, a serene spa and a level of outdoor adventure that is unrivaled on the east coast.

An array of outstanding year-round activities awaits the entire family, including horseback riding, fly fishing, alfresco yoga and meditation, kayaking, hiking, sporting clays, archery, deep-space stargazing in the observatory, RTV trail riding and tennis. With Auberge Resorts Collection’s highly personalized service, Primland is the quintessential escape destination.

Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection features 62 rooms, including standalone cottages, cabins and treehouses. At the center of the property sits the Lodge, featuring a soaring great hall with twin fireplaces, a full-service spa, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, private theatre, game room and one of the largest telescopes and observatories in the Eastern U.S. The resort’s exceptional culinary program boasts three regional cuisine restaurants, a two-story wine cellar and private dining experiences for intimate gatherings and celebrations.

The resort is conveniently located two hours from Charlotte, N.C., five hours from Washington D.C, and just 90 minutes from two regional airports, Piedmont Triad (PTI) in Greensboro and Roanoke Regional. The resort’s partnership with NetJets provides guests with special benefits when flying privately through two nearby airports, Blue Ridge and Mt. Airy-Surry County, only 45 minutes away. The property also features a helipad located at the North Gate.

Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection is now accepting reservations. For more information, visit aubergeresorts.com/primland.

Bryson DeChambeau and Aaron Rodgers Early Betting Favorites in The Match

Oddsmakers have weighed in on “The Match,” returning on July 6 and featuring Phil Mickelson and Tom Brady vs. Bryson DeChambeau and Aaron Rodgers.

MyBookie, a leading online sportsbook, has posted an assortment of odds for the marquee event.

Check them out below. 

Who will win The Match

Mickelson/Brady                         +110

DeChambeau/Rodgers                -150 

Will all 18 holes be played?

Yes                +100

No                  -140 

Will Dechambeau hit a 450+ Yard Drive

Yes                  -170

No                  +130 

Will Mickelson hit a 375+ Yard Drive

Yes                 +110

No                  -150 

Who will hit the longest drive

Tom Brady              -150

Aaron Rodgers        +110

Team to get the first birdie

Mickelson/Brady                +105

DeChambeau/Rodgers      -145

Who will be leading after 9 holes

Mickelson/Brady                   +120

DeChambeau/Rodgers         -160

PXG Kicks Off Women’s Golf Month with Special “Day Off” Announcement

Renee Parsons invites the ladies of PXG to take the day and go play on June 1

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) – In honor and celebration of Women's Golf Day, and as a catalyst for Women's Golf Month, PXG has announced that it will give nearly 100 female employees across the globe June 1st off to enjoy the golf course. 

Led by Renee Parsons, President & Executive Creative Director of PXG Apparel, the ladies of PXG – approximately 20% of the company's team – will join forces with thousands of golfers to raise awareness and support for women playing golf. This is a natural initiative for PXG which has always championed unequivocal inclusivity as a core value for the company and its leadership.

Renee Parsons and her husband, PXG Founder & CEO Bob Parsons, have long supported issues related to women and girls. On average they donate a million dollars every 14-days through The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and, since the Foundation’s inception, have donated more than $9.5 million specifically to women and girls related causes. Beneficiaries of the Foundation's support include organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley, Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine, Chrysalis Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence, Women Moving Millions, and Live & Learn.  

The couple's focus on supporting marginalized populations extends beyond philanthropy to include everyday business practices and partnerships too. 

In an email to the PXG team, Renee Parsons shared, "From club building and operations to retail and marketing, the women of PXG make us a stronger company." 

She also explained the importance of Women’s Golf Day, "For PXG, this day is about togetherness. We want to give the ladies of PXG the opportunity to connect with a global movement that encourages women to join forces in support of each other's wins, on and off the course." 

Bob Parsons further added, "In every business I've built, strong women have helped pave the way to company success. This is no different for PXG. I am proud to count so many women among our #PXGTroops and am thrilled to give them the day to play golf – a sport that definitely needs their increased participation."  

The decision to support Women's Golf Day with meaningful action was met by a collective cheer across the organization. Women and men alike celebrated PXG’s public commitment to helping raise global awareness, advocating for inclusivity, and encouraging participation. 

Many of the ladies of PXG offered insight into their personal relationship with golf and touted what makes PXG different. 

"Women's Golf Day highlights much of what I love about fostering inclusivity in the game worldwide. It's about bringing together golfers from different walks of life (race, gender, age, occupation, etc.) and enjoying a four-hour round. If I can use my platform as a female fitter and leader with PXG to help grow the game and provide others a role model in their journey, I consider that a huge success personally and professionally." - Jasi Archaya, PXG Sales Specialist

"For the PXG Accounting team, which consists of 75% women, several of whom are new to the sport, the Women's Golf Day initiative allows us to become part of the PXG team of golf fanatics." - Ronda Altvare, PXG AR Specialist

"I’ve been in the golf industry for over ten years. Before joining PXG I never had another teammate or colleague who was female. It's amazing to be part of a company where 20% of the workforce is women, especially when many of the roles held by women are senior and management! I also love that PXG reflects inclusivity in our workforce and our product lines by 'making golf clubs for golfers' and not categorizing clubs into men's and women's brackets. This new initiative, whereby we get to kick off Women's Golf Month by being encouraged to take the day off and go play golf is the icing on the cake!" - Rebecca West, PXG UK Territory Sales Leader

"As a team, diversity makes us more interesting and a better reflection of the world today. The opportunity to do better and be better through our work unites us as PXG Troops. I look forward to spending Women's Golf Day on the course to enjoy the spirit of camaraderie and fun that golf so perfectly supports." – Leela Brennan, PXG VP of Brand Communications & Engagement

"When I first started at PXG six years ago, it was truly a startup. Since then, I have been given the opportunity to work on various projects, from club assembly equipment and our club packaging program to a golf glove and a magnetic putter slot on our hybrid stand bag. I am proud to be a part of a company that's not only experiencing insane growth but also a company that makes inclusivity a consistent priority along the way." - Candace Chen, Design Engineer

"Having been in the golf industry for the last 15 years of my life - from Outside Service to Head Pro, Director of Golf to Director of Operations and now the Director of Supply Chain - I have seen first-hand how few programs and leagues are available for women, especially beginners. Anything we can do to help drive interest amongst female golfers, regardless of skill level, the better off the industry is as a whole." - Nikki Nielsen, PXG Director of Supply Chain

With the entire female workforce out of office on June 1, PXG Social Media Director Colby Villa is planning ahead. "I manage a team of female golfers and am beyond excited for them to have a day off to enjoy the game they love and support daily. On 6/1, we may have to put up a 'Gone Fishing Golfing' sign for social media support!"

If you share PXG's values of inclusivity and fun and are interested in being part of a world-class brand, click here to learn more about joining the team. 

For additional information about PXG, visit PXG.com or call 844.PLAY.PXG. 

Precision Pro Golf Hires Charles Woodward as PGA Tour Representative

(CINCINNATI) – Precision Pro Golf  – a technology company that creates innovative products to help golfers of all skill levels enjoy the game more – has hired Charles Woodward as its representative on the PGA Tour to help service demand for the company’s innovative, tech-forward rangefinders among the world’s top professionals and their caddies. 

Woodward is a veteran Tour representative who has had great success growing the profiles of a variety of brands amongst the game’s elite players. Starting in May, Woodward will be on-site at select events, where he will introduce players to the company’s latest products and share the features and benefits of Precision Pro Golf’s rangefinders.

The hiring comes on the heels of the PGA of America announcing rangefinders will be allowed during tournament rounds at this year’s PGA Championship, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship. Players can use their devices to determine distance to the hole, hazards and more. The PGA of America is the first major body to permit the use of rangefinders at all its premier professional events. 

“This season marks the first time in history golf fans will see how the best golfers in the world utilize rangefinders during a tournament,” says Clay Hood, CEO of Precision Pro Golf.  “Having a respected veteran like Charles on our team and working with these athletes every week will shine a light on the innovations and groundbreaking technology we’re making in the category, as well as drive awareness for how golfers of all skill levels can improve by using Precision Pro Golf rangefinders.”

Woodward will have the opportunity to share Precision Pro Golf’s newest R1 Smart Rangefinder and other innovative designs with the world’s best golfers.

“I have no doubt that the high-quality and inventive nature of Precision Pro Golf’s products will convert many Tour players into brand evangelists,” says Woodward.

Beyond the R1, Precision Pro offers a variety of rangefinders and accessories, including the popular NX7, NX9 and NX9 Slope models. On all rangefinders, Precision Pro offers free shipping, a 90-day money back guarantee and the only free lifetime battery replacement program in the industry.

Customer service is a hallmark of Precision Pro, as indicated by its Precision Care Package. Beyond the 90-day money back guarantee and free lifetime battery replacement, the company also offers a two-year warranty and guaranteed trade-in allowance, wherein they provide customers a 30% discount for trading in existing Precision Pro Golf product toward the purchase of new ones. 

To learn more, visit www.precisionprogolf.com.

GolfNow Announce Youth on Course Scholarships

Collaboration Recognizes Outstanding High Schoolers by Providing College Tuition Support and Continued Access to Golf

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – GolfNow and GolfPass joined Youth on Course today to announce two sponsored scholarship awards, further bolstering the companies’ recently formed partnership with YOC to help grow the game of golf. The two award recipients join a cohort of 18 other 2021 Youth on Course annual scholarship winners from a competitive pool of member applicants.

The GolfNow and GolfPass Scholars each will receive a $20,000 award, which will be administered as $5,000 payments for every year they are enrolled at their intended university.

GolfNow Scholar

Michelle Kashia Yang (Woodbury, Minn.), University of Wisconsin-Madison

Intended Major: Marketing and Finance

Woodbury, Minn.-native Michelle Kang has earned recognition as the 2021 Youth on Course GolfNow Scholar. Her outstanding high school achievements include being named an AP Scholar with Distinction, four years of service as Student Council President, serving as Concertmaster on her school orchestra, and honored as Player of the Year and Top All Conference for the Woodbury High School Girls Golf Team. Kang will continue her studies and golf career at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

GolfPass Scholar

Viveka Kurup (Redwood Shores, Calif.), Bucknell University 

Intended Major: Computer Science

2021 Youth on Course GolfPass Scholar Viveka Kurup of Redwood Shores, Calif., will join the women’s golf team at Bucknell University this fall. As a decorated high school player, Kurup served as Captain of the Carlmont High School Girls Golf Team for four years and won the school’s Hall of Fame award during her sophomore and junior years. She recorded wins across several Northern California Junior Tours and served as a staff writer for her school newspaper, receiving a Best of SNO Journalism award for her work.

“We are more than honored to provide financial support to these two outstanding high school students, so they can continue their education and help achieve their future goals,” said Jerramy Hainline, GolfNow senior vice president and general manager. “Providing our services to help ease the financial burden for the next generation of golfers is extremely important and something our organization prides itself on.” 

"College students graduate with an average debt of nearly $30,000 and we believe cost should not be a barrier to pursuing higher education, just like it shouldn’t be a barrier to playing golf." says Michael Lowe, vice president of programs for Youth on Course. “We are so proud of Viveka and Michelle for their accomplishments in the classroom, on the golf course, and in their communities and thanks to the generous support of our partners at GolfNow and GolfPass, these outstanding students can continue their education in college and are on a path to graduate without the financial burden so many struggle with.” 

The continued support from GolfNow and GolfPass contributes to Youth on Course’s mission to provide youth with access to life-changing opportunities on and off the course. GolfNow and GolfPass are committed to providing added resources that facilitate accessibility to golf for young people through initiatives, such as the GolfNow “Round Up” campaign, launched in December 2020, which helps raise funds to support subsidies for rounds of golf; complimentary GolfPass video subscriptions for YOC members; and, now, through the scholarship expansion. This collaboration continues to take major steps toward ensuring the vitality of golf as a recreational alternative for kids, as well as using technology to create more affordable and equal access to the sport for youth in all socio-economic circumstances.

Robert Jones Black Announces Launch of Generation Next Project

Great-Grandson of Bobby Jones Draws Upon Golf Legend’s Intellect, Emotional Intelligence to Invest in Youth Social and Emotional Development   

(Greensboro, N.C.) – Robert Jones Black – great grandson of Bobby Jones, businessman and entrepreneur – today announces the official launch of the Generation Next Project, dedicated to investing in the social and emotional development of the next generation to build the business leaders and innovators of tomorrow. 

An immersive digital lifestyle, combined with the isolative effects of a global pandemic has created a mental health epidemic among children, teens, and young adults.  The Generation Next Project aims to bridge this disconnect through partnering with specific organizations providing tools and resources for social and emotional development through the lens of golf’s values and Bobby Jones’ legacy.

“Many people only know Bobby as a golf icon, but he possessed exceptional emotional intelligence and understood sacrifice and dealing with adversity, which are critical skill sets for today’s youth,” says Black, Chairman of Generation Next Project.  “Our mission is to partner with organizations who align in teaching the mental strength and character of my great grandfather to help our children successfully navigate life’s challenges and, in his words, learn to play the ball where it lies.”  

Among the organizations selected as partners of the Generation Next Project are:

- AJGA Leadership Links — Imparts strong leadership qualities as it empowers its’ more than 7,500 members to embrace social responsibility by implementing charitable drives to help their communities

- Dream Tank — Empowers young people to create their own social entrepreneurial ventures and collaborate to solve global problems. Their youth ecosystem and programming incorporate frontier technology, a discovery learning curriculum, and a holistic focus on well-being

- Positivity Project — Focuses on bringing the hope and positivity our children need to feel ready to work together to impact their futures as an individual and a global citizen

Golf will serve as the central activation pillar for the Generation Next Project, as an individual sport, players learn to understand how to control emotions and how to overcome challenges, character traits which align with the foundation’s core issues of social and emotional development. 

For more information, visit: www.generationnextproject.org

Patriot Golf Days Moves to Memorial Day Weekend For First Time

Annual golf fundraiser benefiting military members and their families will support both PGA HOPE and Folds of Honor

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – For the first time in its 15-year history, Patriot Golf Days will be held over Memorial Day weekend (May 28-31) as a way to further honor our nation’s heroes. 

PGA REACH, the 501(c)3 charitable foundation of the PGA of America, and Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members, will jointly host the nationwide annual fundraiser. This marks the second year the two organizations have come together to expand and grow fundraising efforts for both PGA HOPE and Folds of Honor through the game of golf. 

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces golf to Veterans with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The program includes a six-to-eight-week developmental curriculum taught by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. In 2019, PGA HOPE programming impacted 2,500 Veterans nationwide.

“We’re using golf as a form of dedicated rehabilitation and therapy for our Veterans, and we couldn’t be more proud of the vital work PGA HOPE does,” said Corp. (Ret.) Chris Nowak, PGA HOPE Military and Veteran Liaison. “Our partnership with Folds of Honor to expand the reach of Patriot Golf Days means we can impact more families of the men and women we serve. And to be able to have it during Memorial Day weekend is a perfect way to continue living our mission of supporting our nation’s heroes.”

Through its first 14 years, Patriot Golf Days has raised more than $50 million to help fund educational opportunities for Veterans, their spouses and children.

“We're very excited about moving Patriot Golf Days to Memorial Day weekend,” said Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, PGA, Founder and CEO of Folds of Honor. “It's exactly the right time for this event. The commitment and generosity of golfers across the country is going to raise significant funds for academic scholarships for military dependents and assist our Veterans who deserve and need our help.”

Patriot Golf Days began as a grassroots fundraising initiative over Labor Day Weekend in 2007, with golfers across the country encouraged to add an extra dollar to their green fees to fund Folds of Honor scholarships for families of fallen or disabled Veterans. Over the last 14 years, the effort has grown to encompass a variety of fundraising events, tournaments and golf marathons led by PGA Professionals and golfers in all 50 states and 41 PGA Sections. These events, and other related yearlong activities, have funded more than 10,000 scholarships.

To find participating courses around the country, donate or to register a course for Patriot Golf Days, visit patriotgolfdays.com.

Stanford Freshman Rachel Heck Wins 2021 ANNIKA Award Presented by Stifel

Recognizing the Most Outstanding Female NCAA Division I College Golfer, Heck Becomes 2nd Freshman to win ANNIKA Award; Earns Exemption to 2022 Amundi Evian Championship

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) – Stanford Freshman Rachel Heck continues to re-write the record books in college golf by becoming the second Freshman to win the prestigious ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel, recognizing the most outstanding female NCAA DI college golfer. The announcement was made today by Hall-of-Famer Annika Sorenstam and Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel on GOLF Channel.

As a result of winning the 2021 ANNIKA Award, Heck receives an exemption to compete in the 2022 Amundi Evian Championship, one of the LPGA Tour’s five major championships.

“Every time someone asks my who is my favorite golfer and who is my biggest role model, Annika is the easiest answer,” said Heck after receiving the award and a congratulatory phone call from Annika. “She is incredible. What she did with her career in golf alone speaks for itself, but what she has done after that is unbelievable. She has given so much back to the game. After she finished her career, she has spent the rest of her life just giving back to the game, growing golf and growing girls golf. So, to receive the award from her is so special. 

“A huge thank you to all of the coaches and especially the players for voting,” continued Heck. “These are my best friends. These are girls I grew up playing with, and to get their vote is really special. They are the reason I come out here, want to play and are the reason why I love golf so much. To win an award voted on by them means the world to me.”

“It makes me super proud and warms my heart when I hear her comments,” said Annika after hearing Heck’s interview on GOLF Channel. “I’ve seen her play the last few years and I have seen her grow up and mature. I think golf is in good hands when you have players like Rachel. It validates what we do. It makes me want to do more and celebrate these wonderful young women and what they do both on and off the golf course.

“She has had an amazing season, and I think it says a lot about not only her performance on the course but a lot about her personality,” continued Annika. “Thank you to Haskins Commission and Stifel in presenting this award. It is very special for us. This is the eighth year, and every year we have had some incredible winners, many who have gone on to great success on the LPGA Tour and are great ambassadors for the game.” 

“Stifel has been a proud supporter of college golf for more than a decade, and our commitment grows stronger each year,” said Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel. “As an organization with an abundance of top women performers, we are honored to be a presenting sponsor for such a prestigious award. This year’s recipient has gracefully handled the challenges of a very unconventional golf season and we salute her remarkable resilience and achievements.”

Heck became Stanford’s first individual national champion on Monday by winning the NCAA Women’s Golf Individual National Championship, finishing at 8-under par 280. The victory was Heck’s sixth title of the season, where she became the third collegiate woman to sweep postseason competition by winning conference, regional and the individual national championship. 

Heck, the 2nd ranked player in the country on GolfStat and the 6th ranked player in the Women’s World Amateur Golf Rankings, enrolled in the Air Force ROTC this semester, with her ultimate goal of becoming the first woman to serve in the military reserves while playing on the LPGA Tour. She will compete next week in the U.S. Women’s Open at The Olympic Club after earning low medalist honors at the Marin Country Club qualifier in early May.

Prior to teeing off in her final round at the NCAA Women’s Individual Golf Championship on Monday, Heck paused after she heard the name Victoria Pinckney by the first tee starter. Every player in the field at the championship on Monday played in memory of a fallen U.S. serviceman or servicewoman. Air Force captain Pickney – a wife and mother – passed away serving her country in Krygyzstan during Operation Enduing Freedom eight years ago. Heck walked over the starter to write down Pinckney’s name on her scorecard. 

“We’re playing a golf tournament; that doesn’t matter,” Heck told GOLF Channel following her individual championship victory. “These people gave their lives for this country, so I didn’t want to lose sight of that. When I missed a putt that I thought was going in and looked down at my scorecard and saw her name, it kind of brought me back to real life and reminded me of what’s important.”

GOLF Channel’s live coverage of the NCAA Golf Championships continues today and tomorrow with the NCAA Women’s Golf Championships team match play competition in primetime, followed by live coverage of the NCAA Men’s Golf Championships, May 31-June 2. Complete information about GOLF Channel’s television coverage of the NCAA Golf Championships can be found HERE.

Voting for the ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel was compiled and verified by the Fred Haskins Commission, which oversees the award. Past winners of the ANNIKA Award include Natalie Srinivasan (Furman, 2020); Maria Fassi (Arkansas, 2018-19); Leona Maguire (Duke, 2015, 2017); Bronte Law (UCLA, 2016) and Alison Lee (2014). These past ANNIKA Award recipients tallied 33 wins during their collegiate careers; have been collectively recognized as First Team All-Americans 10 times; and have accumulated three professional wins (Bronte Law – 2019 Pure Silk Championship; Leona Maguire – two Symetra Tour wins). GOLF Channel and Golfweek are media partners for the ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel.

Original Penguin by Munsingwear and Grand Slam Brands Announce Exclusive Apparel Partnership with USA Pickleball

(Miami, FL) — Original Penguin by Munsingwear and Grand Slam brands (divisions of Perry Ellis International) have signed an extensive, multi-year partnership with USA Pickleball. The brands will serve as the Official Apparel Partner and exclusive Referee Program sponsor. The partnership establishes Original Penguin by Munsingwear and Grand Slam as industry-leading paddle brands for all genders and ages to one of the fastest growing sports, pickleball. USA Pickleball will launch a new online store, https://shopusapickleball.com with exclusive co-branded merchandise.

Pickleball has great appeal with over 4.2 million players in 2020, an increase of 700,000 participants over 2019, despite the pandemic. Pickleball is fun, family-oriented, socially distanced and has cross-generational appeal. 

At Original Penguin by Munsingwear, we believe in heritage and unique fashion... it’s what you wear to be original and for the good times. With classic silhouettes and unique prints, the brand will launch a refreshing new apparel line in Fall 2021. 

These brands represent spin-offs of the legendary Munsingwear brand. They epitomize leading sport and leisure apparel distributed worldwide... from bowling to golf & tennis and now pickleball, its legacy continues to maintain authenticity and future relevance. 

“We are ecstatic to be at the forefront of one of the fastest growing sports, and see a tremendous opportunity to expand our footprint in a growing paddle sport industry. The collection will offer functional style and iconic logoed apparel to pickleball players,” stated Oscar Feldenkreis, Perry Ellis International CEO and President. “Additionally, sponsorship of prominent USA Pickleball tournaments will generate additional brand awareness and exposure through various marketing platforms and activations.” 

“To partner with a premier fashion house such as Perry Ellis International and the Original Penguin by Munsingwear and Grand Slam brands for our pickleball community, staff and referees is a great honor. We are excited for this new partnership and the opportunities that lie ahead,” said Stu Upson, USA Pickleball CEO.  “As an organization, we are thrilled to see the exponential growth in the number of players throughout the United States and the opportunity to attract and retain the best referees through this partnership.” 

Additional information is available at www.pery.com and usapickleball.org.

Belmont Celebrates Grand Re-Opening

Course will reopen to the public on Saturday, May 29 

(HENRICO, Va.) – First Tee — Greater Richmond, Henrico County and Love Golf Design celebrated the grand re-opening of Belmont at a ceremony on Monday, May 24. 

Officials from all three parties offered remarks at the event, with Davis Love III saying, “We [Love Golf Design] have never created a course that will have such an impact on golf.” 

Henrico County Board of Supervisors Chairman Dan Schmitt commented, “I have been honored to represent Henrico on First Tee’s Board of Directors and have seen firsthand how committed [First Tee – Greater Richmond Board Chairman] Ben Pace and his team are to their mission.

“I cannot wait to see it in action, with kids, adults and families out here enjoying and learning this wonderful game on this beautiful, majestic course.”

First Tee – Greater Richmond CEO Brent Schneider said, “We are extremely thankful to be here today and have so many groups and people to thank for their belief and help. To the Henrico County officials here with us today, Love Golf Design, our First Tee - Greater Richmond Board of Directors, donors and staff – thank you for all your efforts in getting us to this point.”

Six First Tee – Greater Richmond participants hit the course’s first shots on Little Bell No. 1, with World Golf Hall of Famer member and 1997 PGA champion Love displaying the coaching that led him to be a two-time Ryder Cup and 2022 President’s Cup captain. First Tee – Greater Richmond participant Meg Lavinder nearly aced the hole, while D’Yan Robinson provided a chip in from the back bunkers of the 80-yard “Tiny Tim” template hole.

Love also “rang in” the course with a new bell that represents First Tee – Greater Richmond’s community-centric ethos at the facility while also calling to mind the old bell on Belmont’s fifth hole.

Belmont will formally open to the public on Saturday, May 29, with tee times now available at PlayBelmontRVA.org.

Love Golf Design led the renovations at Belmont that started in May 2020, culminating in Monday’s event. Designed by famed architect A.W. Tillinghast in 1917 and renovated by Donald Ross a decade later, Belmont Golf Course hosted the 1945 Richmond Invitational, won by Ben Hogan, and the 1949 PGA Championship, won by Sam Snead.

Belmont remains the only golf course in Virginia that has hosted a men’s major championship and one of only two Tillinghast courses nationwide that has hosted a major and is still open for public play — the other being Bethpage Black in New York.

New Sun Mountain Rainwear is 2X More Breathable

(Missoula, Montana) – The new for 2021 Sun Mountain Cirque is the company’s top-of-the-line rain gear featuring its most breathable waterproof rain suit to-date. The waterproof/breathable membrane has a 20k waterproof rating and an elite 50k breathability rating. That's nearly double the breathability rating of past rain suits. Cirque is extremely lightweight, waterproof, quiet, and breathable due it’s three-layer construction. As an extra bonus the four-way stretch fabric makes this rain suit ultimately playable. Cirque is available in Men’s Full-Zip Jacket at $299.99 and Pants at $259.99. 

For the nearest Sun Mountain retailer, call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

Cirque Jacket is a full-zip rain jacket constructed with a three-layer Japanese fabric that boasts an elite 20K/50K waterproof/breathable rating. Additional features on the jacket include high-quality, waterproof YKK zippers; adjustable cuffs; and a cinch system at the waist. Cirque Jacket is available in Black or Navy in sizes Small – XXXL. 

Cirque Pant features an auto-fit stretch waist with zipper fly and belt loops, four pockets including two front pockets with zippered pass-through, and two rear pockets: one with zipper closure and one with Velcro closure. Cirque Pant is available in Black in sizes Small – XXXL.

Cirque comes with a two-year waterproof guarantee.

2021 marks the 40th year Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear, and golf carts. Sun Mountain's many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart® golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain's "Ahead of Time Design" motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment. 

For the Sun Mountain retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

Brooks vs. Bryson ... Who Wins a Fight?

The rift between Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau was raised to a new level after DeChambeau walked behind Koepka during an TV interview at the PGA Championship. The video of Koepka rolling his eyes and losing his "train of thought" is priceless.

So, that got the oddsmakers thinking ... who would win in a charity boxing match between these two behemoths? 

SportsBetting.ag set odds for the hypothetical fight, and Koepka is listed as a -180 favorite while DeChambeau is a +140 underdog.

There are a few other Brooks-Bryson prop bets on the board, which you can see here: https://www.sportsbetting.ag/sportsbook/futures-and-props/golf---specials 

Charity boxing match winner

Brooks Koepka -180

Bryson DeChambeau +140

Will Koepka and DeChambeau be paired together at 2021 Ryder Cup?

Yes +600

No -1500

Will Koepka and DeChambeau meet in a playoff during 2021 season?

Yes +200

No -300

Will Koepka walk through background of DeChambeau interview in 2021?

Yes +800

No -2500

U.S. Open head-to-head matchup

Brooks Koepka -110

Bryson DeChambeau -110

Will Brooks Koepka win a major in 2021?

Yes +550

No -1000

Will Bryson DeChambeau win a major in 2021?

Yes +750

No -2000

Shot Scope Celebrates Air Force Veteran Michael Sember, Villages (FL) Resident and Avid Golfer, For Recording 100 Millionth Shot with Shot Scope GPS Smart Watch

Shot Scope Teams Up with Ben Hogan Golf Equipment to Present Sember with $1000 gift voucher to spend on a variety of products at www.benhogangolf.com

(Edinburgh, UK) – With tens of thousands of golfers across 100 countries using Shot Scope GPS Smart watches to track their game performance, Michael Sember, an Air Force and resident of The Villages in Florida, was the lucky individual who recorded the Company’s 100 millionth shot.  Shot Scope (www.shotscope.com), a leading international manufacturer of GPS-based golf management systems, including the award-winning V3 Smart Golf Watch, is celebrating the milestone shot by presenting Sember with a $1,000 gift voucher, courtesy of Ben Hogan Golf Equipment Company, to spend on a variety of products at www.benhogangolf.com.

Michael Sember

Sember, 77, a 28-year Air Force Veteran who flew the F-4 and the F-15 fighters in Vietnam, started his golf journey just five years ago at age 72. He was playing at Bonifay Golf and Country Club at The Villages when he recorded the 100 Millionth Shot Scope shot while wearing his V3 Smart Watch and hitting his 3rd shot out of a fairway bunker on Par 5 using a 24-degree hybrid club.

"That happened to be one of my better shots of the day,” said Sember. “I only started playing golf 5 years ago and I continually strive to get better and using Shot Scope gives me excellent feedback on my shortcomings."

"It is hard to put into words what this 100 million shot milestone means for Shot Scope as a company, and we want to thank Michael Sember, as well as every one of our more than 50,000 golfers who helped us reach this historic mark in performance tracking,” said David Hunter, CEO, Shot Scope.  “Capturing golfer swing data is the key to helping players see rapid improvement and thanks to the tracking capabilities of our smart golf watches, thousands of players have reduced their handicaps.”

In addition to helping golfers lower their scores, the data captured by Shot Scope has enabled the Company to create a wealth of information that highlights where golfers are trending with shot making and how they manage their game on the course.

Among the key data points aggregated from Shot Scope’s 100 million recorded shots include:

- Under-club on approach shots … golfers are missing the green short 46% of the time.

- Use less loft around the greens … Lower handicap players are using a wider range of clubs around the greens, while higher handicaps elect for lob wedge too often.

- Scores are made with long and short putting … For higher handicap players, lag putting and getting inside 4ft is key to improvement, while lower handicaps have better rounds when holing out inside 6ft more often.

- Golfers should avoid the sand … Fairways bunkers cost an average of 1.4 shots per hole and at first attempt the ball is left in a greenside bunker by a staggering 20% of golfers.

- Across all abilities the smallest difference in performance, surprisingly is on fairways hit accuracy … lower handicap players don’t hit as many fairways as assumed, for they are better from the rough and better when out of position compared to higher handicaps.

Adds Hunter, “What makes Shot Scope data so important is that we track golfers of all handicap levels across 100 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Argentina. Thus, we have our finger on the pulse of game improvement worldwide and our GPS Smart Watch technology is showing measurable success among every type of player.”

As part of its Performance Tracking Platform, Shot Scope recently unveiled its 2021 Strokes Gained e-Book, which offers a complete benchmarking of traditional performance statistics, comparing golfers of handicap levels and how they perform in the following areas: Average Score to Par; Fairways in Regulation; Greens in Regulation; Short Game Up & Down; Average Putts Per round; and Average Number of Penalty Shots Per Round. The book, which is available for free download at https://shotscope.com/golf-ebooks/, includes a detailed analysis on the limitations of these traditional statistics, as well as an in-depth presentation on strokes gained and how to best evaluate data for marked game improvement.

Shot Scope products can be purchased at Dicks Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstores, TGW.com, golf specialty stores or online at www.shotscope.com. 

Giants Ridge Layouts Reign Supreme in Golfweek’s 2021 Course Rankings

The Quarry Retains No. 1 ‘Best You Can Play in Minnesota’ Honor and Lofty Spots in ‘Modern Courses’ and ‘Top 100 You Can Play’ Lists; The Legend Jumps to No. 8 in State Rankings

(BIWABIK, Minn.) – Giants Ridge – Minnesota’s premier golf destination set in the rugged beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range – announces its golf courses maintained its high rankings in multiple categories in Golfweek’s 2021 Course Rankings list.

The Quarry finished No. 1 in Golfweek’s annual “Best: State-By-State Courses You Can Play” rankings, maintaining its dominance as the best public course in Minnesota for the seventh consecutive year. Built on the site of a former sand quarry and iron ore mine, the Jeff Brauer design features dramatically raised tees and hazards forged from reclaimed and repurposed mine land, and dramatic Iron Range vistas.

The Quarry also solidified its status as one of the premier layouts in the country, ranking 47th in Golfweek’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” list and No. 121 in the “Top Modern Courses” category.

The Legend at Giants Ridge also moved up two spots to eighth in the “Best State-By-State Courses You Can Play” rankings. Carved out of the Superior National Forest, The Legend is a true “Northwoods” course featuring towering pines, giant fairways and majestic views of the Wynne and Sabin Lakes.

An easy drive from the Twin Cities, Giants Ridge was the only resort in Minnesota to boast multiple courses in the top-10 of Golfweek’s “Best: State-By-State Courses You Can Play” rankings.

“We are extremely honored that both courses at Giants Ridge continue to receive numerous accolades from Golfweek,” says Director of Golf John Kendall. “These honors help generate exciting buzz as we welcome back golf travelers to one of the most scenic getaways in the country.”

Giants Ridge opened its golf season on April 30, and is extending its spring rates – $79 seven days a week with a special $35 rate for juniors – through June 3. All rates include a golf cart rental, range balls and a yardage book.

Beginning June 4, Giants Ridge will reinstate its widely popular 37-Hole Special. Dubbed “Minnesota’s Greatest Value in Golf,” the 37-Hole Special includes golf on both The Quarry and The Legend with lunch for $160 Monday – Thursday and $175 Friday – Sunday. Both rounds of golf and lunch must be redeemed on the same day, and other restrictions may apply. Lunch options are available at either Bunkers or the Wacootah Grille.

To book tee times at Giants Ridge, call 218.865.8030.

The Golfweek honors continues Giants Ridge’s incredible start to 2021. A month ago, GOLF Magazine ranked The Quarry 68th in its Top 100 Courses You Can Play rankings. Earlier this year, Golf Digest bestowed its highly coveted “Editor’s Choice Award” in the Best Golf Resorts in the Midwest Category to Giants Ridge. Celebrating the “best of the best” golf destinations, Giants Ridge was one of only eight resorts listed in the Midwest and the only destination in Minnesota. The 2021 award marked the third consecutive year Giants Ridge has received this honor from Golf Digest.

For more information: www.giantsridge.com, 1.800.688.7669.

Circling Raven Schedules ‘High School Championship’ for Golfers whose Season was Affected by Pandemic

(Worley, Idaho) – Circling Raven, the No. 1-rated public course in Idaho, has room for additional players in its “High School Championship” tournament on June 1. The event helps fill the void created for student-athletes whose spring golf season was affected due to the pandemic.

“We’re happy that life is beginning to get back to normal, but we know that many golfers have missed out on their traditional post season tournaments and championships,” said David VonBrethorst, Circling Raven Head Golf Professional. “We want to provide them with a memorable final high school event, and we invite players to grab their peers and join the fun.”

Players can choose from one of two different formats:

- Individual Stroke Play (Male and Female Divisions)

- Two Person Team Best Ball (Male, Female, and Co-Ed Divisions)

To register, players can sign up here or call 1-800-523-2464 and ask for Circling Raven Golf Club.

Play will begin with tee times starting at 1 pm. There will be lunch provided for all participants and prizes for individual champions and the top three teams. The registration fee is $50 – almost one-half of what a round would typically cost.

This is the second straight year that the “High School Championship” is being held at Circling Raven, which is owned and operated by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe.

Visit www.cdacasino.com for more information on golf and other resort options.

Willing to Work Harder ... On My Putting

While alone in the WTWH Media offices, I did what any red-blooded American man would do ... worked on my putting.

Second-Place Finish at PGA Championship Using Stability Tour Putter Shaft

(Dallas, TX) — Breakthrough Golf Technology, announces that one of the second-place finishers at the PGA Championship on the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island in South Carolina used the BGT Stability Tour Putter shaft. 

“Congratulations to the second -place finisher at the PGA Championship, a great international player, who ranked 1st in putting at the event,” says Breakthrough CEO and Founder Barney Adams. “More pros on all the tours are using the Stability Tour shaft and realize that it can make a huge difference in their game.”

The Stability Tour shaft is the result of feedback from the best golfers and coaches in the world and offers state‑of‑the‑art performance with a slim profile and crisp, responsive sound and control preferred by better players.

Breakthrough Golf Technology website: breakthroughgolftech.com

2,700 Players Already Registered For 38th Annual PlayGolfMyrtleBeach.com World Amateur Handicap Championship

(MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.) — Golf rounds have surged over the last 14 months and it appears that players, having worked on their game at home, are ready to return to the competitive arena.

Two thousand seven hundred and twenty players have already registered for the 38th annual PlayGolfMyrtleBeach.com World Amateur Handicap Championship, which will be played August 30 - September 3 on 60 Myrtle Beach area courses. Players from all 50 states and 10 countries have signed up for the 72-hole, net stroke play event.

“We are delighted with registration numbers and can’t wait for the return of the complete World Am experience in 2021,” Tournament Director Scott Tomasello said. “Last year was a difficult one, but people are eager for a return to normal and for thousands of golfers, that means the opportunity to compete in the World Am. We look forward to welcoming players to Myrtle Beach in a safe, fun environment.”

In addition to the opportunity to claim the mantle of World Champion, the reopening of the World’s Largest 19th Hole has certainly driven interest in this year’s event. The 19th Hole, which takes up all 120,000 square feet of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, is the heartbeat of the event, providing players free food and drink, live entertainment, a golf expo and more.

Entry into the tournament, which includes at least four rounds of golf, nightly admission to the World’s Largest 19th Hole and a gift bag, is $559 through June 3rd a $120 savings off the regular cost.

While much of the 2021 tournament will look familiar to players, there will be two new women’s divisions this year. For the first time, there will be a women’s gross division, and the ladies, who previously had just one age group, will be split into two groups - 59 and under and 60 and older.

The World Am, which flights players based on age, gender and handicap, is open to all golfers 17 years of age and older.

The World Am flights players into 11 divisions – men 49 and under, senior men (50-59), mid-senior men (60-69), super senior men (70-79), seasoned seniors (80+), women (59 and under), senior women (60+), the gross division, senior (50+) gross division, mid-senior (60+) gross division, and women’s gross division. There is also a “Just For Fun” flight, created for players who want to enjoy the World Am experience without the pressure of competition.

After four days of competition, all flight winners and ties advance to the World Championship Playoff at Grande Dunes Resort Course for an 18-hole shootout that crowns the event’s winner.

While the competition is initially what lures players to the tournament, it’s only part of what keeps them coming back. At the heart of the World Am’s appeal is the camaraderie among its participants and much of that kinship is fostered at the World’s Largest 19th Hole.

Among the big names that have appeared at the 19th Hole in recent years are David Feherty, Brandel Chamblee, Charlie Rymer and John Daly.

Players will also receive a gift bag that includes a polo, a pullover, a golf towel, a logo’d hat, a PGA Tour Superstore gift card and an assortment of other goodies valued cumulatively at $250.

For more information, please visit www.MyrtleBeachWorldAmateur.com.

Puerto Rico Robust in Tourism Rebound; Golf Niche Follows Trend

Palmas Athletic Club

Eased Travel Restrictions for Visitors Go into Effect May 28, 2021 

(SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO) — Statistics show that as domestic travel begins its revival Puerto Rico is faring far better than the U.S. average according to the April Travel Recovery Insights Dashboard from the U.S. Travel Association. This holds true for many of the Island’s travel niches, not the least of which is golf.

The Recovery Dashboard, developed in partnership with Tourism Economics, includes not only a national overview of where key indicators stand but also a state and territory breakdown. In this, it is evident Puerto Rico is faring far better than the U.S. average, with travel spending in March 2021 only 17% lower than the same pre-pandemic period in 2019. 

Discover Puerto Rico, the Island’s Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), is sharing updates for U.S. inbound travelers stemming from the local government’s latest Executive Order. The order, which goes into effect on May 28, 2021, includes modified restrictions such as the elimination of negative COVID-19 PCR molecular test requirements for fully vaccinated travelers on domestic flights and the ability to utilize a negative antigen (rapid) test result when entering the Island, for passengers who are not vaccinated or those arriving internationally. As of May 24, the local curfew is lifted, which was established in March 2020.

These encouraging facts bode well for overall travel to Puerto Rico going forward, as well as for the golf niche, which has been thriving during the pandemic due to the inherent safeness and ideal social distancing found in the game and on the Island.

“It is fantastic to see the increased volume of inbound Island visitors coming to enjoy Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort,” said Seth Henrich, PGA, Wyndham Grand’s Director of Golf. “The increase in tourism coupled with a membership boom has set the stage for banner years to come.”

TPC Dorado Beach is doing so well that it has shifted strategy due to growth and demand.

“We are seeing a significant increase in resort golf rounds and membership sales for the club,” said Jeff Willenberg, PGA, Director of Golf at TPC Dorado Beach “Due to the growth of our membership over the past six months, the club now only allows members, their guests, and hotel guests from Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. We expect the momentum of resort rounds and membership sales to continue to grow as the year progresses.”  

While both TPC Dorado Beach and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar are on the northeastern coast near San Juan, courses and resorts throughout the Island are experiencing similar success.

Located on the northwestern tip of Puerto Rico, boutique resort Royal Isabela reports increased demand for its Links Golf Course and luxury casitas. “It is exciting to have tourists traveling again to enjoy Puerto Rico,” said Eugenio Lopez, Royal Isabela Sales Director. “We are maximizing this opportunity by continuing to improve our golf facilities and services.”

Palmas Athletic Club in Humacao on the eastern coast is home to two 18-hole courses designed by Gary Player (Palm Course) and Rees Jones (Flamboyan). Like TPC Dorado Beach, handling the high demand has required the club to proactively balance needs.

“We have seen exponential growth in our rounds and membership levels,” said General Manager Seth Bull. “We are open to the public on Monday through Thursday, with tee times available by calling our Golf Pro shop. Play on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings is reserved for members. However, non-members may play after 11:00 am when accompanied by a member. This schedule has allowed us to serve well our continually growing membership.”

There are 18 golf courses on Puerto Rico. Sixteen are open to the public. The other two – at TPC Dorado Beach – allow play by guests staying at the Dorado Beach, Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Island courses range from luxury resort to municipal, spread throughout Puerto Rico with several clustered near historic San Juan. Oceanside views, coconut trees, and mountain and rainforest vistas frame their settings. Price points, terrain, layout style, and related amenities are varied and complementary.

Traveling to the Island is convenient with many choices as it is the air hub of the Caribbean. Further traveler friendliness is found in Puerto Rico’s bilingual culture, U.S. currency, and no passport required for American citizens.

For more information on Island golf courses, resorts, and other destination attractions, visit: DiscoverPuertoRico.com.

Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge Rate as Top Two Public Courses in State by Golf Digest Ranking Panelists

Ozarks National

Ozarks National also Garners Status as one of “America’s 200 Greatest Courses” in Esteemed Biennial List

(BRANSON, MISSOURI) – Golf Digest rates Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge as the state’s top two public courses in its just-released “America’s Greatest Courses by State, 2021-22” compilation.

Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw and Tom Fazio and Johnny Morris, respectively, Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge are two of five golf courses at Big Cedar Lodge, the stunning wilderness resort in southwest Missouri.

Ozarks National was also rated No. 155 – out of approximately 15,000 total – in the national magazine’s “America’s 200 Greatest Courses,” which was also just released. 

To arrive at its ranking of Best Courses by State and America's 200 Greatest Golf Courses, Golf Digest panelists play and score courses on these eight criteria: shot options, challenge, layout variety, distinctiveness, aesthetics, conditioning, character, and fun.

This latest distinction follows a similar result for Ozarks National from GOLF Magazine via its biennial “Best Courses in Every State, 2020-2021.” Ozarks National ranked third out of five courses listed for Missouri, the only public course that was included.

These aren’t the first top rankings for Ozarks National, which garnered “Best New Public Course in America” upon opening in 2019. Earlier this year – along with three other Branson Golf venues – it was rated No. 1 in Missouri by Golfweek. Buffalo Ridge, Branson Hills (Chuck Smith-Bobby Clampett) and LedgeStone (Tom Clark) joined it to hold four of the state’s top 10 spots, including the top three.

“Branson has long been appreciated as an ideal place to escape for fun vacations and a variety of recreational activities and attractions,” said Lynn Berry, Director of Communications, Branson CVB. “That’s truer than ever now that the golf destination is home to 10 wonderful public courses that are all near one another and hold a number of best-in-kind accolades.”

Branson’s six other courses include Payne’s Valley (Tiger Woods) which opened in September 2020; Top of the Rock (Jack Nicklaus); Mountain Top (Gary Player); Thousand Hills (Bob Cupp); The Pointe; and Holiday Hills.

For more information about Branson Golf, visit www.explorebranson.com/golf or www.facebook.com/bransongolf

USGA Welcomes 135 P.J. Boatwright Interns in 30th Anniversary Class

Annual internship program has created a pathway to a career in golf for more than 3,000 men and women of all backgrounds 

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The USGA will fund 135 internships across its network of 59 Allied Golf Associations (AGAs) in 2021 through the P.J. Boatwright Jr. Internship Program, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Since the program’s inception in 1991, the USGA has invested more than $30 million into cultivating future leaders of the golf industry by providing qualified applicants of all backgrounds with paid, hands-on experience as staff members at state and regional golf associations. The program has helped launch the careers of more than 3,000 individuals, with alumni holding leadership positions throughout the golf and broader sports industries and beyond.

The value of the internship funding in 2021 totals $1.7 million.

“Providing a pathway to a career in golf through the P.J. Boatwright Internship Program is one of the most important annual investments the USGA makes in the game’s long-term sustainability,” said Mike Davis, CEO of the USGA. “Our 59 AGAs play a critical role in advancing the game at the local level and provide interns with some of the most valuable experience our industry has to offer.”

All 59 AGAs in the United States and Puerto Rico were granted funding for the 2021 class. Lasting between three and 12 months, the internships provide experience in managing all aspects of the game, including conducting competitions and junior golf programs, and supporting membership initiatives.

One-third of all current state and regional golf association staff members are Boatwright alumni, including 21 AGA executive directors, as well as 16 USGA staff members.

The internship program includes a two-day summit, in which interns from across the country visit the USGA campus for interactive professional development sessions and to network with USGA staff and each other. Due to the circumstances caused by COVID-19, the 2021 summit is being conducted virtually for the second straight year through a series of sessions running from May 19-26. The sessions are led by USGA staff members and include firsthand introductions to each of the association’s key service functions, including Championships, Rules, the Museum and Library, Green Section, and Equipment Standards, as well as Communications and Marketing.

The program honors the contributions of P.J. Boatwright Jr., the USGA’s third executive director, who played a pivotal role in the development of both the USGA and golf in the United States. An accomplished amateur player and one of the game’s foremost Rules experts, he served as executive director of the Carolinas Golf Association for five years before joining the USGA in 1959. He served the association until his death in 1991, leaving a legacy of sportsmanship and service.

In addition to being a recipient of the Bob Jones Award, the USGA’s highest honor, Boatwright’s legacy is celebrated through his enshrinement in the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame, Wofford College Hall of Fame and Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame, among others. In 1990, the Golf Writers Association of America presented him with the William D. Richardson Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to golf.

The internship program is part of the USGA’s annual $70 million investment back into the game fueled by revenues generated by the U.S. Open Championship.

To learn more, visit usga.org.

Register for Larry Holmes' Heart of a Legend Celebrity Golf Tournament

The night of June 9, 1978 was like no other for Larry Holmes. He had only three minutes left in his first championship boxing match. Ken Norton, the reigning champion, had gone toe to toe with him for fourteen grueling rounds. Larry knew that his career depended on this 15th round.

Seated not too far from the ring, rooting for him like she did at every one of his 27-0 professional career fights, was Diane Holmes. She knew that Larry’s talent and hard work had brought them from their small city in Pennsylvania to Las Vegas. Time and time again she watched that night as the advantage would flip from one fighter to the other. She also realized, as did everyone at Caesars Palace, that the fifteenth round would determine the winner.

Larry, with Diane by his side, walked away that night as not only “The Easton Assassin” but as the WBC champion. Although only 28 years old, Larry did not succumb to the pressure of the venue or the national television audience. Somehow, during that exhausting fifteenth round, Larry found the energy and strength in the final 30 seconds of the fight to stagger Norton with a right cross and a stinging uppercut. Those final seconds secured his victory as the world’s champion.

Larry Holmes knew, later that evening, that he was now the focus of professional boxing in America. Make that the world. Over the course of seven years, from 1978 to 1985, Larry would successfully defend his title 19 times. He would face great boxers like Muhammad Ali, Earnie Shavers, Mike Weaver, James “Bonecrusher Smith” and Carl “The Truth” Williams. For his title defense against Gerry Cooney, on June 11, 1982, Caesars Palace specially constructed a 32,000-seat stadium, and millions more watched on television around the world as Larry again successfully defended his world’s title.

The night of June 9, 2018, will also be very special because it marks the 40th anniversary of Larry winning the world’s boxing championship. And he is still fighting and holding the title of “The People’s Champ”. The Champ supports organizations that assist disadvantaged Americans. And not surprisingly, Diane is right there by his side. Their only goal – to leave behind a legacy of community support outside the ring that is just as important as Larry’s successes in the ring.

Larry and Diane formed a charitable foundation Heart of a Legend in 2015. The mission of Heart of a Legend is to help the underprivileged, without regard to age. But Larry and Diane were also not going to forget their chosen hometown of Easton, Pennsylvania. As the organization says on its website: Our purpose is to continue supporting and assisting local agencies and community organizations in meeting their needs while keeping our city BEAUTIFUL!

With Heart of a Legend, Larry and Diane gladly joined a movement in America recognized as "a growing national awareness of black philanthropy." They have not just supported but have led the way for “Heart of a Legend” to help those in need in the Easton area. It goes unsaid that they have pledged their financial support on occasions too numerous to mention. More than their money, they have donated their time and talents to causes that benefit children and needy members of their community. They work to give local students the opportunity for a post high school education. They are ardent believers in protecting older Americans, and have supported organizations which seek elder justice. They have joined with others to combat sexual violence.

This should not be a surprise to anyone. A little research shows that philanthropy has long been a stable characteristic of African-American society. The esteemed researcher and author, Mary-Frances Winters, wrote, in Reflections on Endowment Building in the African-American Community, that “Black Americans have been compelled to share and give back from the moment they arrived on the shores of this country. When they have money to give, they give; when there was no money to give, a generous heart, a strong back or a keen mind. As a value, ‘giving back’ is firmly rooted in black history.”

Nor does the story end with an appreciation of black philanthropy. With Larry and Diane’s guidance, Heart of a Legend takes a leadership role to encourage diverse participation in community projects. A look at the organization’s board members shows that Heart of a Legend crosses many cultural lines. The only commitment is to give something back to society.

Heart of a Legend has already helped many worthwhile charities. In 2016, it donated computers to The Third Street Alliance for Women and Children, which provides, among other services, a shelter for homeless women, women with children, and families. In 2017 Heart of a Legend helped raise money and awareness for the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, a statewide group working to eliminate sexual violence and to advocate for the rights and needs of sexual assault victims, and the SeniorLAW Center, whose mission is to protect older Pennsylvanians with legal representation, education and advocacy. Heart of a Legend has provided financial support for Safe Harbor, a facility in Easton that provides safe and secure housing and case management for homeless men and women.

And in 2018, for the first time, Heart of a Legend is awarding financial grants to high school students from the Easton area. They call the program “Tomorrow’s Legends Awards” and the numerous honors are designed to recognize moral character, achievement, humanitarian leadership skills. There are many other projects that Heart of a Legend, still in its infancy, has started. And many others are on the drawing board.

Larry Holmes’, quicker than lighting jab took him to the world’s championship of boxing in 1978. But it is his passion to promote the well-being of all his neighbors, and of all citizens, that makes him still a Champion in 2018.

Learn more at www.HeartOfALegend.org.

Innovative V1 Game App Named “Best Golf App for Apple Watch”

GolfPass Lauds V1 Game’s Strokes Gained Data, Auto Shot Tracking and Detection

(Novi, MI) — V1 Game, the innovative mobile app from V1 Sports that delivers on-course GPS and robust post-round performance analytics (including numerous Strokes Gained statistics), has been named Best Apple Watch Golf App for 2021 by GolfPass (https://www.golfpass.com/). The app also captured the top spot in several sub-categories, including auto shot tracking, strokes gained data, and auto distance measuring.

“It's great to see the industry take notice of the V1 Game app’s depth of inventive features,” says V1 Sports CEO Bryan Finnerty. “You are going to be hearing more and more about how V1 Game leads the way as the number-one GPS app with mind-blowing Auto Shot Detection, robust performance data analytics, and Virtual Coach and Virtual Caddie functions that make golfers better. The focused and articulated Strokes Gained reports give golfers the ability to practice smarter and lower their scores – that clearly sets us apart. Our V1 Game developers Dallas Webster and Ryan Hebert are rock stars in this business and V1 Game is going to continue to turn heads and help people play their best golf.”

Affiliated with NBC, GolfPass is a popular paid membership service that connects golfers to tee times credits, exclusive video content, world-class instruction and travel tips. The GolfPass review mentioned that V1 Game “has vaulted up the ranks of established app makers to become the best app for serious golfers using Apple Watch. Its shot tracking is the clear-cut winner among the apps that don't require club tags, while the app dashboard provides illuminating strokes gained and traditional analysis using your scoring and shot data.” It goes on to add that shot tracking really matters when the statistics dashboard isn't insightful, and V1 delivers by slicing and dicing rounds and shot data in a multitude of ways - telling users which facets of their game are losing the most shots and where they should spend practice time.

Click https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/articles/best-apple-watch-golf-apps-2021 to read the full article. 

In addition to greatly enhancing the ability of an Apple Watch on-course, V1 Game can also transform a mobile phone into a golfer’s personal caddie, game performance tracker and pocket golf coach. V1 Game’s powerful GPS data provides accurate yardages to greens, hazards and landing zones to help you navigate the course like a professional. After a round is completed, V1 Game’s intuitive performance analysis technology provides a wealth of articulated statistics that reveal the user’s strengths, weaknesses and paths to improvement. With unique features such as Virtual Caddie and Virtual Coach, the sky’s the limit on GPS- and A.I.-powered game improvement. What’s more, V1 Game functions without the need for wearables, attachments or any external hardware other than a smartphone or Apple Watch.

“If you're serious about game improvement, V1 Game should be something you use every round to track your shots and gain a crucial understanding of the shots and skills you need to effectively lower your scores,” says Webster. “I was struggling a few years ago to find specific areas of my game to work on that would lead to lower scores, so I developed V1 Game. By following my Strokes Gained data in V1 Game and having it guide my practice, my handicap improved by over six shots. I couldn't have gotten this far this fast without V1 Game’s simple and effective insights. Golfers owe it to themselves to find their own journey to success with V1 Game.”

Visit https://v1sports.com/athletes/v1-game-app/ to learn more about V1 Game.

Belmont Announces Corporate Partners

Course will reopen to the public May 29

(RICHMOND, Va.) – First Tee — Greater Richmond has announced its corporate partners for Belmont, which will open to the public on Saturday, May 29.

Included among the corporate partners are CapTech Consulting, Dynamic Brands, Peebles Golf Carts, Peter Millar and Revels Turf and Tractor.

“These partnerships reflect the vision of First Tee – Greater Richmond: to strengthen the character of our community,” First Tee – Greater Richmond CEO Brent Schneider said. “All of our partners are locally and regionally based, and we are grateful that they share in our mission of making Belmont an entry point to the game of golf for all.”

CapTech, a Richmond-based national technology consulting firm, will be part of the Phase 2 developments at Belmont which will include the development of a state-of-the-art golf technology lab in the former pro shop.

With an emphasis on inclusivity, the lab will support training and development for all skill levels through the innovative use of data, design and technology. A central goal of the lab is to connect and integrate data from golf training tools, mobile devices and third-party sources.

Additional details, including renderings of the lab, will be shared later this year with an anticipated opening in the spring of 2022.

Dynamic Brands will be providing Bag Boy push carts and Devant Sport Towels at Belmont, including the award-winning Nitron auto-open push cart. The Nitron’s revolutionary, one-step auto open technology makes it the easiest opening cart in golf, and Devant Sport Towels is known as the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality custom towels. In addition, Bag Boy will be the exclusive rental cart provider to Belmont.  Dynamic Brands will also be hosting a special 75th anniversary "Walk the Course" event at Belmont on June 5. 

Established in 2004, Dynamic Brands is the Richmond-based parent company for a portfolio of premium brands committed to the development of innovative, quality products and outstanding customer service in the sporting goods industry. Golf and recreational products are offered through Bag Boy, Burton, Datrek Golf, Devant Sport Towels, Haas-Jordan, IGOTCHA, SEARCH 'N RESCUE and FLAGPOLE-TO-GO brands, and include walking carts, golf bags, travel covers, umbrellas, custom sport towels, bag tags, golf ball retrievers, flags and accessories.

First Tee – Greater Richmond’s partnership with Peebles Golf Carts also extends to The Tattersall Youth Development Center, with the Glen Allen-based business delivering a fleet of Club Cars at both facilities. The Belmont-branded golf carts will also be equipped with dual USB ports for the ease of charging phones and speakers.

Peter Millar will be the official apparel provider and retailer at Belmont. The Raleigh, N.C.-based company will outfit Belmont staff, while patrons of Belmont will also be able to purchase Peter Millar polos, belts and additional apparel on site.

The Official Golf Equipment Supplier for the PGA Tour, Revels Turf and Tractor is providing Belmont with a full line of John Deere golf turf equipment, including fairway and green mowers, Gator utility vehicles and aerators.

Additionally, the partnership will provide funding for four scholarship positions designed to bring people into the world of golf course maintenance. The scholarships will fund two technical, mechanical positions at Belmont along with two agronomy-focused jobs at the course.

Love Golf Design, co-founded by World Golf Hall of Fame member and 21-time PGA tour winner Davis Love III, led the renovations at Belmont that started in May 2020, with a grand re-opening ceremony on May 24. The course will open to the public on May 29, with tee times available later this spring at PlayBelmontRVA.org.

Designed by famed architect A.W. Tillinghast in 1917 and renovated by Donald Ross a decade later, Belmont Golf Course hosted the 1945 Richmond Invitational, won by Ben Hogan, and the 1949 PGA Championship, won by Sam Snead. Belmont remains the only golf course in Virginia that has hosted a major championship and one of only two Tillinghast courses nationwide that has hosted a major and is still open for public play — the other being Bethpage Black.

Kauai Anticipating Busy Travel Season—Urging All Travelers To Be Prepared With Pre-Travel Testing Program

Poipu Bay

(Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i) – With many Americans ready for a return to normalcy, Kaua‘i hotels, resorts and golf courses are reporting a pent-up demand for summertime travel to the Garden Isle. Pre-bookings for rounds of golf in June and July are approaching pre-pandemic levels, while hoteliers are pleased with the increased booking pace of summer hotel and resort reservations. Kaua‘i tourism officials are requesting that all travelers to be prepared for their visit by becoming familiar with and participating in the state’s mandatory Safe Travels pre-travel testing program, and ensure you have a rental car reserved far in advance of arrival.

With Hawaii’s Safe Travels pre-travel testing program, travelers from the U.S. mainland, even those who are fully vaccinated, must have their negative test results prior to departing as an alternative to Hawaii’s mandatory 10-day quarantine. A 10-day mandatory quarantine will be required for transpacific travelers arriving WITHOUT a negative result from an accepted COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) test taken within the 72 hours before departure of the final leg of their trip to Hawaii. Travelers will not be able to obtain an accepted COVID-19 test upon arrival at any Hawaii airport. To qualify, transpacific travelers must do the following:

- Create a Safe Travels account as soon as you get your airline reservations and complete the mandatory State of Hawaii Travel and Health Form 24 hours before departure at: https://travel.hawaii.gov/

- Take a pre-travel test from one of the State of Hawaii’s U.S. Domestic, International, or Airline Trusted Testing and Travel Partners within the 72 hours before departure of the final leg of their trip to Hawaii. A list of transpacific Trusted Travel Partners can be found at https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel-partners/

- For transpacific travel, the state of Hawaii will ONLY accept a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) PCR test from a certified Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) lab test results from the specific U.S. Domestic, International, or Airline labs on that list. If a traveler arrives with a test from any non-qualifying lab on the list, or a test that is not a NAAT PCR test, you will have to quarantine for 10-days (or the length of your stay whichever is shorter), or participate in the Resort Bubble program, or leave the state.

- Travelers arriving from out of state MUST have their negative test results BEFORE flying to Hawaii. If you don’t have your test results in hand before boarding, you best postpone your trip. If you receive your results after traveling to Hawaii, you will still have to quarantine for 10-days (or the length of your stay whichever is shorter), participate in the Resort Bubble program, or leave the state.

- The negative test result MUST be uploaded onto Safe Travels prior to departure or printed out prior to departure with hard copy in hand when arriving in Hawaii.

”We are welcoming back our visitors and asking them to be mindful of the current COVID rules so we can keep Kaua‘i safe and enjoyed by all.  Golf continues to be one of the best outdoor experiences with incredible views,” said Sue Kanoho, Executive Director of the Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau.

Nicknamed the Garden Isle for its lush tropical foliage, waterfalls and ever-present Pacific Ocean scenery, Kaua‘i boasts numerous daily-fee and resort golf courses. The destination is perennially recognized for its beaches, award-winning golf courses, ideal playing weather and stunning natural beauty. For more information on Kaua‘i golf, visit www.gogolfkauai.com.

For the latest information on travel guidelines to COVID-19 pandemic, please go to: www.kauai.gov/covid-19. For a list of Resort Bubbles, please go to: https://kauaiforward.com/travel/.