2023 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship to be Hosted by Alabama’s Shoal Creek

Shoal Creek Club

The Championship will be held at Shoal Creek and Bent Brook Golf Course from May 8-10.

(FRISCO, Texas) – The PGA of America today announced that Shoal Creek Club and Bent Brook Golf Course, both outside Birmingham, Alabama, will host the 2023 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship (PWCC), May 8-10. 

The PWCC, the most culturally significant championship in collegiate golf, features Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and other Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) from all over the country. More than 200 student-athletes representing approximately 30 teams, along with 52 individuals, will compete in five divisions. 

The PWCC was founded in 1986 by the National Negro Golf Association when HBCUs did not have the same postseason opportunities as other institutions. Today, the Championship retains its founding vision to open doors for student-athletes from HBCUs and MSIs as well as other athletes from diverse backgrounds.

“The PWCC is an influential Championship that goes beyond the golf course, so it is important to the PGA of America that we have a host site that understands its importance in collegiate golf and its long-term effects on these student-athletes,” PGA CEO Seth Waugh said. “Shoal Creek and Bent Brook fit the bill, and we are excited to head to Alabama where the athletes, the Championship and venues can be showcased.”

In conjunction with the PWCC, PGA WORKS will host Beyond the Green, a career-exploration event designed to educate and inspire talent from historically underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in the golf industry and to understand the important role golf can play in their careers overall. The event will be held May 7, 2023.

In addition to providing a first-class venue for the PWCC, Shoal Creek and its membership have committed to helping support the PGA WORKS HBCU Golf Scholarship endowment, with 50% of those funds staying in Alabama. The PGA WORKS HBCU Golf Scholarship endowment has been created to provide men’s and women’s golf scholarships to underfunded HBCU and MSI institutions in an effort to sustain those programs for the long-term. 

“Shoal Creek is honored to host the 2023 PWCC. We look forward to welcoming student-athletes from across the country representing HBCU and MSI men’s and women’s collegiate golf programs,” said Shoal Creek Club president Greg King. “These young men and women are tremendous ambassadors of the game and truly represent the positive impact it can have on a young person’s life. We are thrilled with the opportunity to bring such a prestigious and significant event to Shoal Creek and the great state of Alabama.”

“Alabama is home to 15 HBCUs, making it the state with the most in the country,” added Bent Brook owner Jimmy Lee. “It is an honor to join PGA WORKS and Shoal Creek in hosting the PWCC. The Bent Brook Golf Course is looking forward to welcoming all teams and student-athletes to this historic event.”

The Championship is also a point of pride for the city of Birmingham and its mayor, who graduated from Morehouse College, an HBCU in Atlanta. 

“We're proud to host the 2023 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship here in our city, and we're even more proud that HBCU student-athletes will have an opportunity to compete at one of the most beautiful golf courses in our state," said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. “As an HBCU graduate myself, I’m excited that the PGA and Shoal Creek are creating more inclusive spaces for minority golfers while providing scholarships to student-athletes. This is a great step in the right direction.”

Shoal Creek is a Jack Nicklaus design that opened in 1977. It has hosted the 1984 and 1990 PGA Championships, the U.S. Amateur (1986), the U.S. Junior Amateur (2008) and the U.S. Women’s Open (2018), among other events. It is currently ranked among the top courses in the U.S. by both Golf Digest and Golf.com.

For more information, visit PGAREACH.org.  

Titleist Introduces Next Generation Tour Speed Golf Ball

Features Reformulated High-Speed Core and High Flex Casing Layer with Proprietary Titleist Performance Urethane (TPU) Cover 

(FAIRHAVEN, Mass.) – When the original Tour Speed was introduced two years ago, it was the first Titleist high performance, multilayer golf ball with a proprietary Titleist Performance Urethane (TPU) cover, and immediately provided golfers the fastest, best performing model in its category.

The reformulated Tour Speed continues to produce consistently fast speed, penetrating flight, and exceptional short game control golfers have come to trust and expect from this model. All of this was accomplished while adhering to the rigorous quality and consistency standards required to be stamped with the Titleist script.

The reformulated core delivers high speed, and a proprietary high flex casing layer, uniquely designed for this golf ball to maintain low long game spin. The reformulated Tour Speed golf ball maintains its proprietary Titleist Performance Urethane (TPU) cover – specifically formulated by Titleist Golf Ball R&D chemists - and 346 quadrilateral dipyramid dimple design, a combination engineered to generate a penetrating, consistent flight, and optimized greenside spin for short game control.

The result is a combination of speed and spin to help execute any shot, tee through green.

“The key to the development process was successfully reformulating the core and high-flex casing layer to perform in conjunction with the proprietary Titleist Performance Urethane (TPU) cover to our stringent quality tolerances, so the golf ball performs consistently on every shot,” said Frederick Waddell, Director of Product Management.

“The Titleist Performance Urethane cover material is innovative and best in class,” said Mike Madson, Senior Director, Research and Engineering. “We did maintain the 346 quadrilateral dipyramid dimple pattern based on feedback from the Tour Speed golfer who prefers its penetrating mid-flight trajectory and long distance.”

2022 TOUR SPEED TECHNOLOGY FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

• REFORMULATED, high speed, high compression 1.550” CORE generates fast speed on full swing shots to deliver maximum distance.

• REFORMULATED, PROPRIETARY high flex CASING layer helps maintain low, long game spin.

• PROPRIETARY Titleist Performance Urethane (TPU) COVER is engineered to deliver exceptional greenside spin for short game control.

• 346 quadrilateral dipyramid DIMPLE DESIGN provides a penetrating flight trajectory for long distance.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: $40/dozen MAP | The Titleist Tour Speed will be available in the U.S. on May 20th in White (#1-4) and on June 21st in Yellow (#1-4). It will be available in global markets beginning May 20th in both White and Yellow (#1-4).

New Titleist Tour Soft Optimizes Aerodynamics for Exceptional Tee-through-Green Performance

(FAIRHAVEN, Mass.) – Titleist introduces its third generation Tour Soft golf ball, responding to golfer feedback with a new aerodynamic design for longer distance off the tee combined with a large, fast core for a responsive soft feel.

“The Tour Soft golfer prioritizes feel and seeks the softest possible, but they are also looking for all around performance,” said Jeremy Stone, Vice President, Titleist Golf Ball Marketing. “The new Tour Soft has been reengineered for improved performance from tee through green.”

At 1.600”, the Tour Soft retains one of the largest core sizes in the Titleist golf ball portfolio and the same soft compression as the current generation. Such a large core requires an extremely thin cover, and Titleist developed the thin 4CE grafted cover which helps generate reliable greenside spin for short game playability.

The Tour Soft golf ball features a new aerodynamic design – the 346 quadrilateral dipyramid dimple design – that delivers optimized ball flight for longer distance.

“Just like any of our golf ball products, we are always looking for a dimple pattern that is specific to each model and works best for that design,” said Mike Madson, Senior Director, Research and Engineering. “In the new Tour Soft, we saw an opportunity to improve upon the aerodynamics and improve upon the longer distance players were seeking.”

According to Madson, the 346 quadrilateral dipyramid dimple design was not on the original radar for the new Tour Soft golf ball:

“Our team developed many designs and went down a myriad of paths from a research standpoint, but it wasn’t until the Tour Speed golf ball when we tested and determined the quadrilateral dipyramid dimple pattern made for a really efficient way to process an injection molded cover. We never planned to put the same pattern on the Tour Soft, and we looked at a multitude of other dimple counts and patterns within the same family that might work better. But when it came to optimized ball flight and total performance, the 346 quadrilateral dipyramid pattern was clearly the best.”

While it may have the same aerodynamic package as reformulated Tour Speed, in comparison, the Tour Soft will fly slightly lower due to the unique construction, primarily the large soft core as compared to the multi-layer Tour Speed.

2022 TOUR SOFT TECHNOLOGY FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

• Large and fast 1.600” CORE delivers long distance and responsive soft feel.

• Thin 4CE grafted COVER formulation provides reliable short game control.

• New 346 quadrilateral dipyramid DIMPLE DESIGN delivers optimized ball flight for longer distance.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: $35/dozen MAP | The New Titleist Tour Soft will be available in golf shops worldwide beginning May 20 in White and Yellow (#1-4).

RBC Joins Women’s Golf Day as Global Partner and Lead Sponsor of Inaugural WGD RBC Toronto Event

Registration now open for June 7 event, taking place at Scarboro Golf and Country Club

(TORONTO) — RBC announced its new sponsorship as a Global Partner of Women’s Golf Day (WGD) and lead sponsor of the inaugural WGD RBC Toronto event, taking place June 7 at the historic Scarboro Golf and Country Club. The Women’s Golf Day movement, recognized each year in June, includes more than 1,000 events in over 80 countries, and celebrates women and girls learning valuable skills that will empower them on and off the golf course.

With a shared vision of advancing the game of golf for women, RBC is proud to partner with WGD, a global network of women dedicated to supporting golf and one another in the pursuit of excellence in the game. As lead sponsor of the WGD Toronto event, RBC will help provide new and experienced golfers across the greater Toronto area with resources, networking opportunities and access to the game.

“We are thrilled to partner with Women’s Golf Day for the launch of the inaugural WGD RBC Toronto event and to further our commitment to supporting women in sport,” said Shannon Cole, Vice-President, Brand Marketing, RBC. “WGD’s passion for championing the advancement of women in golf is inspiring, and we are excited to be joining their incredible global network.”

“As Women’s Golf Day continues to evolve and expand globally, we are excited to welcome RBC, an organization that shares our passion for advancing women through the sport of golf,” said Elisa Gaudet, Founder of Women’s Golf Day. “We look forward to launching this initiative in Toronto and continuing to empower Canadian women to get involved in golf no matter what their level and explore the benefits for themselves, family and friends.”

Golfers can participate in the WGD global initiative by registering for the Toronto event, taking place on Tuesday, June 7 at Scarboro Golf and Country Club from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EST. The event will include a panel discussion featuring prominent women in the sport including Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Member Lorie Kane, a choice of participation in either a 9-hole shotgun game or golf clinic, as well as networking opportunities with leading golf industry professionals.

Additionally, event participants will receive complimentary tickets courtesy of Golf Canada, to the RBC Canadian Open taking place from June 6-12 at the iconic St. George’s Golf and Country Club in Etobicoke. Tickets to the WGD event are limited and registration will close once all spots have been filled.

“Scarboro Golf and Country Club is thrilled to host the Toronto event for Women’s Golf Day and to partner with RBC and WGD on this amazing initiative,” said Carol-Ann Goering, Chief Operating Officer, Scarboro Golf and Country Club. “Our Club aims to engage a diverse community of golfers and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the WGD network this June.”

RBC is a proud supporter of women’s golf on both the professional and grassroots level, demonstrated through longstanding sponsorships including: Team Canada; CP Women’s Open; RBC PGA Scramble; and RBC Community Junior Golf. RBC is also the official financial services partner of golfers on the LPGA TOUR including world no. 9 Brooke Henderson, Alena Sharp and Morgan Pressel.

Key Facts:

What: Women’s Golf Day in partnership with RBC

When: Tuesday, June 7 from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EST

Where: Scarboro Golf and Country Club, Toronto, ON

How: Register for the inaugural Toronto event here. Registration includes complimentary tickets to the RBC Canadian Open, courtesy of RBC and Golf Canada. Spots are limited and registration will close once all spots have been filled.

Learn more at rbc.com and womensgolfday.com.

Bartow Golf Course to Host 59th Consecutive Florida Sheriffs Youth Villa Classic

Top State Amateur Tournament to Benefit Polk County Youth Villas

(Bartow, FL) – The 59th annual Florida Sheriffs Youth Villa Classic will be contested again at Bartow Golf Course on May 28-30. The popular three-day charity tournament also includes a practice round on May 27.  A field of 120 golfers is expected to participate, including a number of Florida’s top men’s amateurs. Tiger Godwin from Bartow, the 2021 Florida Amateur Public Links champion, is looking to win his sixth Youth Villa Classic title. The golf event is run in conjunction with the Polk County Sheriff’s office and the City of Bartow. 

The Florida Sheriffs Youth Villa Classic is a major fundraiser to support the operation of the Youth Villa, which currently serves as a scholarship campus for young men and women graduating from the traditional residential program of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.

The facility in Bartow’s Peace River Park provides a safe and stable location for the youth attending a college or trade school with the adult supervision needed for these students to stay focused and thrive. Proceeds generated from the golf event have helped build, furnish and maintain the five cottages, plus provide administration and activity buildings, a chapel, a barn, sports courts and boat dock. 

“It’s truly an honor and a pleasure to be part of this long lasting event of 59 years,” said Tami Waring, Bartow Golf Course’s Manager. “The Villa Classic is the largest tournament we host here, and the dedicated effort of many people helps bring the event together. It’s truly awesome witnessing how this tournament continues to unite a community for the sake of a great cause!”

Former winners of the Youth Villa Classic who went on to play on the PGA TOUR include Andy Bean (1973) and Bob Murphy (1964 and 1965). Fred Ridley, current chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, also won the tournament in 1972 and 1974.

For more information about this year’s tournament and to register to play in the 2022 Youth Villa Classic, please visit the website at www.bartowvillaclassic.com or call Wayne Witczak at the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches 800-765-3797.

Naples Golf Resort Offers Golf Packages Just in Time for Summer

(RELEASE) — LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort welcomes hotel guests and club members only to one of Florida’s best private scenic golf courses and clubhouse, offering the perfect escape for the golfer who appreciates both a challenge and tranquil golf experience free of bustling city distractions. It’s easy to see why Naples, Florida is one of the world’s top golf vacation destinations.

LaPlaya Golf Club boasts one of the finest 18-hole, 72 par golf courses in the destination, featuring undulating fairways, rolling hills and water features designed by renowned golf course architect, Robert Cupp. The Club’s atmosphere reflects casual elegance and offers impeccable course conditioning, unmatched playability and superlative customer service, ensuring an unparalleled round of extraordinary golf.

Tee off on private, lush fairways at LaPlaya Golf Club, whose meticulously manicured greens wind around 14 lakes are guaranteed to provide a day filled with friendly competition, stunning views and fun under the Florida sun. You may witness the occasional eagle soaring above if you’re lucky. For a truly memorable golf getaway, opt to play a round while enjoying the resort’s golf escape package.

Exclusive for LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort guests, LaPlaya’s Perfect Golf Escape package* offers 1 golfer one Round of Golf at LaPlaya Golf Club, including a golf cart, practice balls and waived green fee.

*Package and tee times subject to availability. Tee times must be booked by calling 239-254-5001 prior to arrival to guarantee play. Standard $39 nightly resort fee and $39 nightly valet parking fees not included.

For rates and availability, call the resort’s reservations line at (239) 597-3123.

Unboxing the Honma TW757 3-Wood

Classically styled with a player approved compact footprint, the TW757 fairway woods and hybrids rom Honma Golf provide everything the player demands, and nothing they don’t.

All models feature a sole slot for higher launch and added speed and are built with an SUS630 stainless steel body paired with a 455-carpenter steel face. These premium materials also support a new Vertical Slot Face Insert to more effectively manage both centered and mishit shots alike.

In the lower lofted models, the TW757 3-Wood features a carbon crown to save weight and to generate higher launch conditions. While a cup face insert design in the 3-Wood and #3 Utility also helps increase initial ball speed to help players get home in two. 

Playable from a variety of lies, the TW757 Fairway Woods and Hybrids/Utilities are designed with progressive internal sole weighting to generate consistently long carry distances. As an added benefit, the Fairway Woods feature an adjustable sole weight to fine-tune swing weight.

Retail pricing for Honma’s new TW757 Fairways starts at $415 and varies based on customizations and shaft selection. TW757 Hybrids retail for $350 with custom shaft options available for a slight upcharge.

Learn more at us.honmagolf.com.