Golf Days Are Getting Shorter in Michigan FRED ALTVATER PUBLISHER Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Ohio Golf Journal Indiana Golf Journal Back 9 Report September is the beginning of the end of the 2023 golf season in Michigan, but there is still plenty of time to get your appointed rounds in before the weather becomes cold. In this issue we highlight several courses around Michigan that are currently engaged in renovations. The golf industry has seen a gigantic increase since the COVID pandemic. Resort and course owners are putting money back into their properties to make even better golf experiences going forward. With weather becoming cooler in Michigan, golfers may want to consider heading to Pinehurst, the ‘Home of American Golf.’ Tom Doak has begun work on the 10th course at Pinehurst and the resort is finalizing plans for the 2024 U.S. Open that will return to the North Carolina sandhills next year. If you are thinking about heading farther south, Brian Weis writes about five things to know to plan a golf trip to Northeastern Florida. Ed Travis explains that because the PGA and PGA Tour are not backing the USGA’s proposed golf ball rollback, the proposed rule change may be DOA. I had the chance to play the Tradition course at Treetops and it is a real joy. Check out the unique dining opportunity at Treetops coming October 6,7 and 13. We also visited Pennsylvania’s Nemacolin Woodlands Resort last month and we came away very impressed. It is a first-class destination in every respect. Two Pete Dye classics await golfers, but there is every amenity and activity available for every family member to have a wonderful experience at Nemacolin. We are trying to get in several rounds in Northern Michigan and we hope we see you on the Back 9 of your favorite course. Michigan Golf Journal
Michigan Golf Journal is Published By Back 9 Media Group Publisher: Fred Altvater, USGTF Teaching Professional Advertise with Michigan Golf Journal, Contact us for more information Be sure to take advantage of the links to social media, videos and other content provided within the articles 32 FIND INSIDE 14 22 28 34 When They Were Young Is USGA’s Proposed MLR DOA? Michigan Courses Investing In Upgrades Thank A Superintendent Day Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Golf Nemacolin Provides the Ultimate In Luxury & Amenities Treetops Continues to Grow & Improve 06 11 18 32 14 28 22 ZeroFit Baselayers Keep Golfers Warm & Comfortable 5 Tips For Planning Your Fall Golf Trip To Northeast Florida 25 34 Our Favorite Videos Our Contributors Shot Scope’s NEW PRO LX+ 41 40 38 Michigan Golf Journal
When They Were Young By Lee Pace Ben Hogan was a 30-year-old journeyman when the PGA Tour came to Pinehurst in March 1940. Hogan had been playing for eight years and didn’t have a win to show for it. He was out of money — and confidence. If he didn’t crack the winner’s circle that year, he was going to go back home to Fort Worth, Texas, and work full-time as a club pro. But with a lesson from good friend Henry Picard that helped eliminate his dreaded hook, with hours-on-end putting practice in his hotel room late at night and a driver on loan from Sam Snead, Hogan put together a magical week on No. 2, bolting into the lead with a 66 in the first round and cruising to his first professional win. “I won one just in time,” Hogan said. “I had finished second and third so many times I was beginning to think I was an also-ran. I needed that win. They’ve kidded me about practicing so much. I’d go out there before a round and practice, and when I was through, I’d practice some more. Well, they can kid me all they want because it finally paid off. I know it’s what finally got me in the groove to win.” And what a groove it turned out to be. The volcano had erupted. Hogan proceeded to win the Greater Greensboro Open and then the Land of the Sky Open in Asheville. Three straight tournaments in North Carolina, three straight wins. The rest, as they say, was a Hall of Fame career and a victory in every major championship. “I always loved to play Pinehurst,” Hogan said. “I thought it was a great place. I thoroughly Michigan Golf Journal
enjoyed every minute I stayed there. The whole golf course was a most pleasant and testing golf course. It’s a real test of golf. The North and South Open was a ‘major’ then. Pinehurst was a golf mecca.” Many more luminaries in golf have won at Pinehurst in the early stages of their respective careers. Tiger Woods was a high school senior when he competed in the 1992 Independent Insurance Agents Junior Golf Classic at Pinehurst No. 7. Pat McGowan, a tour pro and Southern Pines resident (his wife Bonnie was the daughter of Pine Needles owner Peggy Kirk Bell), had heard about the young phenomenon from California and made a point to find him on the golf course. There was a gallery of some 75 people already curious as well. “Tiger hit a one-iron off the tee to the same place I hit my driver,” McGowan said. “At the time, I was driving the ball 255 yards or so. I said, ‘You’ve gotta be kidding me.’ I turned to someone and said, ‘This kid is for real.’ “He hit that that one-iron pure and high. It climbed up and up and up. You just don’t hit a one-iron 255 yards that high. That just doesn’t happen.” McGowan followed Woods for two holes and had seen enough. “He strikes the ball like a 25-year-old man,” McGowan said. “He is going to be a real hero
someday. People are going to follow him like they do Michael Jordan.” Jack Nicklaus won the 1959 North & South Amateur, beating Gene Andrews 1-up, and ever since has had a soft spot for Pinehurst and the Donald Rossdesigned No. 2 course. “I think it’s a very enjoyable golf course to play,” Nicklaus said. “I’ve said many times it’s my favorite golf course from a design standpoint. It’s extremely difficult around the greens, but it also gives you an opportunity to play. Pinehurst and Augusta probably give you the two toughest sets of greens I know. I think Pinehurst’s are more difficult than Augusta’s.” The North & South in the mid1900s was dominated by the “career amateur,” the elite golfer who rejected the vagabond and not particularly lucrative pro tour in favor of a good job and stable home life. Billy Joe Patton of Morganton won three North & Souths while selling lumber across the Carolinas, and Bill Campbell of Huntington, W.Va., won four times while owning an insurance agency. But after Campbell won in 1967, the North & South became the bastion of the college golfer on the way to the pro tour. Joe Inman, Gary Cowan, Eddie Pearce, Danny Edwards, George Burns, Curtis Strange, Gary Hallberg, Hal Sutton, Corey Pavin, Davis Love III and Billy Andrade won from 1968-1986. The Donald Ross Memorial Junior held each December and the North & South Junior for Michigan Golf Journal
boys and girls conducted each summer have produced future pros as well. Leonard Thompson from nearby Lumberton won the Donald Ross Memorial Junior in 1963 and ’64. Chip Beck from Fayetteville won in 1972 and ’73. Donna Andrews won the 1984 North & South Junior Girls and Beth Bauer won in 1996. Woody Austin won the 1981 Junior Boys and Hunter Mahan was the 1999 champion. The USGA has conducted three U.S. Amateurs and one Women’s Amateur at Pinehurst, with Labron Harris Jr. winning in 1962 and later collecting two PGA Tour wins; Danny Lee prevailing in 2008 and notching one win each on the PGA, European and Nationwide Tours; and Vicki Goetze winning in 1989 before launching a 15year LPGA career. In recent years, the North & South Women’s Amateur and the U.S. Kids Golf have been the notable incubators for future stardom. U.S. Kids Golf, headquartered at Longleaf Golf & Family Club in Southern Pines, runs the U.S. Kids National and World competitions each July and August. Allisen Corpuz, who won the U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach in July, was medalist in the 2019 North & South, runnermost disappointing loss he’d ever had. He answered that no, finishing second in the U.S. Kids World was more heartbreaking. Indeed, collecting a Putter Boy trophy or other piece of hardware by winning at Pinehurst is a special moment. “Some of my proudest moments were the scores I shot at Pinehurst,” says Curtis Strange, who won the North & South in 1975 and ‘76. “When you go to a place like Pinehurst and do well, it means so much more than winning on a golf course that no one’s ever heard about. My name will be on that plaque in the clubhouse for a long time.” Lee Pace is a freelance golf writer who has written about Sandhills area golf for four decades and is the author of club histories about Pinehurst Resort & Country Club, Mid Pines, Pine Needles and Forest Creek. up in 2020 and semifinalist in 2021. She won the U.S. Kids three times in different age brackets. Brittany Lang, Morgan Pressel and Yani Tseng were an impressive triumvirate of North & South winners from 2003-05, with Lang posting two LPGA wins, Pressel four and Tseng 15. Similarly, Danielle Kang (2011 winner with six LPGA wins), Austin Ernst (2012, three wins) and Ally Ewing (2013, three wins) used Pinehurst as resume builders before professional success. Since first conducting its national and international championships in Sandhills area courses in 2006, U.S. Kids has seen a slew of future stars come through, including Justin Thomas, Patrick Reed, Brooks Koepka and Lexi Thompson. Later as a professional, Thomas barely missed winning a major and was asked if that was the
Is USGA’s Proposed MLR DOA? By Ed Travis A letter penned by the PGA of America and sent to the USGA and The R&A may have sealed the fate of the Model Local Rule (MLR) placing limits on the carry distance of golf balls played by elite professional and amateur golfers. The two-page letter signed by Seth Waugh, CEO of the PGA, the organization representing the club golf professionals that run our game day to day, said, “The proposed changes could seriously interrupt the current momentum in the game and be fundamentally damaging and detrimental in the long run.” The golf industry, according to National Golf Foundation (NGF) data, continues to see increases, even after the unprecedented growth spurt during the COVID pandemic. Learn more about NGF’s findings in last month’s Michigan Golf Journal https://michigangolfjournal. com/2023/August/10/. Waugh added, “We are also very aware that there are sets of data that conflict with the R&A and USA materials. This is confusing and, in our view, needs to be considered fully, reviewed, and clarified prior to any final decision being made.” The point in contention is the creation of MLR, which effectively rolls back the allowable performance of golf balls. The rule does not apply to recreational play, thus it would effectively
way to save face and revive their relevancy to a game, that seems to have passed them by? Heads of both organizations, the USGA and R&A, have publicly repeated the stance that doing nothing is not an option. The fifth major player in the golf world is the Augusta National Golf Club, host of The Masters. Their Chairman, Fred Ridley has said they support a ball roll back. MLR has produced a split in golf’s major championships. The U.S. Open, the OPEN Championship and the Masters will play the new shorter ball. The rest of the professional tournaments run by the PGA Tour (The PLAYERS, Presidents Cup, regular Tour events) and PGA (PGA Championship, Ryder Cup) will still use the current golf ball. The distance the ball travels is not the crux of the problem. As roll back proponents cite stats about driving distance, as well as a myriad of other data, anyone who has ever played, or watched golf on television knows it’s birdies and low scoring that brings attention to the game. Even with the longer ball, new scoring records are not being set every week. Below are PGA Tour scoring statistics for the lowest annual scoring average, the 100th place player scoring average and the Tour overall scoring average, for the past 20 years. Draw your own conclusions, but the differences do not seem to be great enough to make gameshattering conclusions such as limiting golf ball performance, or a roll back justifiable. split golf into an “us” versus “them;” something most of golf’s stakeholders say is fraught with negative consequences. An earlier memo to the USGA, from PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, also used similar language about MLR, “It is not warranted and is not in the best interest of the game.” The operative question today though is what will the USGA and The R&A do? Will they stick with the MLR, drop it, or try for a compromise? Is there any other Year 2022-2023 68.28 70.47 70.70 2012 69.63 71.01 71.32 2002 69.00 70.98 71.29 Lowest Scoring Avg 100th Scoring Avg Tour Average Michigan Golf Journal
The solid core ball, Titleist’s Pro V1 was introduced in 2000, is dramatically longer than previous golf balls of wound construction. It is generally acknowledged that driver design has reached its maximum yardage possible within the present equipment rules. Additional gains can be attributed to course conditioning—firmer for bifurcating equipment into an elite category. Additionally, 77% said the distance pros hit the ball is not a problem. It seems golf’s ruling bodies are backing a very unpopular change. Where does that leave the USGA and R&A in this mess they created? The quick answer is out of touch with golf and golfers by focusing on a problem that doesn’t exist. more roll—and the increased athleticism of elite players. Insiders know that given better training and athleticism, pros are attaining faster swing speeds producing more clubhead speed, thus more distance. According to a survey, conducted by TaylorMade, of 45,000 recreational players 80% do not agree with the MLR concept and are against
Michigan Golf Journal
Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Golf By Brian Verdugo We are witnessing an artificial intelligence (Ai) revolution in our everyday lives. Some people are excited, while others are skeptical and concerned about a future dominated by machines. Even if you’re not ready to adopt the technology – it’s a good time to start wrapping you arms around the topic, as Ai is poised for an even bigger impact in the years to come. The golf industry is currently adapting to the use of Ai and will come to depend on it even more in the future. The current widespread conversation about Ai evokes memories of Cloud-based technology going mainstream two decades ago with similar concerns about data security, access permission and storage. Media misconceptions surrounding the technology created widespread concerns for business and individuals. Early on, people didn’t fully grasp what was taking place and how cloud technology would ultimately change their lives. There is a huge difference between true artificial intelligence and the chatbot technology that 99.9% of business and individuals currently state they use; the latter reliant on preprocessed, template-dependent systems and algorithms that process human interaction and direction for a response. Processing is a better term used than learning. Most solutions currently in market are not true artificial intelligence. Ai is already playing a huge role in the pharmaceutical industry. Medicines are being developed for Alzheimer’s, lymph cancers, inflammatory disease and many more, up to this point, incurable diseases. Deploying this technology helps streamline diagnoses and efficiencies in clinical outcomes sometimes in a matter of weeks or months, not years. Ai
can analyze a vast amount of data with the intent of learning through success and failures recognizing patterns through learned behavior. Consequently, the technology is becoming smarter and more efficient as pharmaceutical companies rely on Ai to help speed up clinical outcomes on humans. TESLA is another example. Most people think of TESLA as an electric car manufacturer. Far from it. The vehicles are simply a part of the platform providing transportation for humans while also collecting indefinite amounts of data through a sophisticated number of sensors. As Tesla’s are being driven daily, racking up millions of miles, each vehicle provides real world data to a complex AI system which analyzes the data to provide simplified processed models deployable back to each individual vehicle. In essence, the vehicles are slave devices to the Ai system which has an endless appetite for data to build complex modeling for vehicle safety, autonomy and reliability. With all of this in mind, for many people, the biggest question is the likely impact of artificial intelligence on certain professions. Will humans be replaced by machines? The short answer right now is “no” but with a strong message that everyone embraces the world of artificial intelligence and gets comfortable in their own personal effort to learn how to use and embrace it. Every industry will assess artificial intelligence’s influence in their respective space, even the golf industry. The two most prominent and promising examples for golf, in my opinion are: Michigan Golf Journal
– How golfers learn to play the game – How courses can more efficiently manage their operations. Ai is the future when it comes to training aids. How many beginners would prefer to avoid judgement by better players as they start learning the game? There is a massive appeal in the ability to enter a private room with a simulator and work with a friendly avatar customizable to one’s personal style of coaching. The result: positive affirmation instead of a tougher, more motivational approach. A fit for everyone? Of course not. However younger generations will likely be more comfortable with newer approaches to learning, and Ai will be one of them. Even as digital golf has grown substantially, golfers by nature still want to play on an actual golf course whether a local public, country club, or travel destination. Historically golf courses have struggled to maintain a consistent profitable financial model due to the high costs of developing and maintaining vast amounts of land golf courses require. Ai may be the longterm solution. Computer systems now analyze when people visit a golf course and highlight areas that are unused. The USGA has been leading the way in this technology for several years. Un-trafficked parts of a course could be identified as areas that no longer need water, fertilizer and maintenance. By using golf carts, autonomous lawn mowers, motion sensors and a connected irrigation system, Ai would be able to monitor patterns and behavior 24 hours a day 7 days a week providing both real time changes and recommendations on how to improve efficiency for golf course owners and operators. The game of golf remains only one of many examples of an artificial intelligence revolution that will continue changing the world as we know it – and in future articles on the subject, I look forward to discussing other industries and areas where change is not only inevitable, it is welcomed. As some are excited about the possibilities and others have their concerns, the common denominator is that AI will continue its growth and become a bigger part of our everyday lives, whether humans are ready for it or not.
Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomfield Hills renovation work started last month. The course will remain open but will have temporary greens and several holes will close through the rest of the 2023 golf season. Michigan-based architect, Chris Wilczynski is working with superintendent Ryan Moore on the project Forest Lake project. The original 1926 design, by William Diddel, an Indiana-based architect, was one of the founding members of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA). Jeff Racher, head golf professional, said the primary goal is to expand the practice range by 50 yards. The sixth green will be moved to a spot behind No. 18 green. “It’s changing the yardage a little bit and changing the elevation some but it will have a similar green complex with a few bunkers added.” They are also reworking the staging area, adding fairway bunkers, plus moving fairway bunkers to address the landing areas. Tree removal and the Michigan Courses Investing In Upgrades While golf participation and demand for more golf continues to increase across Michigan so has the investment in the game by clubs and resorts in the state. Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomfield Hills, White Lake Golf Club near Muskegon in Whitehall, Pine Lake Country Club in West Bloomfield, BOYNE Golf in Northern Michigan and Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth have significant course construction projects in progress. By Greg Johnson, GAM.org Michigan Golf Journal
addition of mowed collection, or chipping areas near greens is part of the work. “It’s a refresh, a modernization,” Racher said. “We have been open almost 100 years and very little has been done to the course over the years in terms of renovation. Art Hills did some work on a few holes in the 1990s. That’s it that I know of. I think this will refresh things. We are landlocked, so we will stay at just under 6,300 yards. But the presence of the place will change.” The renovation and restoration work at White Lake Golf Club is part of a master plan created by Holland-based architect Raymond Hearn. The club first opened in 1916 and includes an original nine holes designed by the legendary Tom Bendelow. A completely new third hole along with dramatic changes to the fourth hole will emerge this summer. Both the third and fourth holes have been closed for the season. The third hole will become and an entirely new par 3. White Lake is blessed to be located in an area of natural sand and Hearn has added dramatic sand and natural grass waste areas to the fourth hole. “The original nine on the north side of the road is the Bendelow nine, while the holes on the south side were the addition added by the club members, but all the holes look like they are Bendelow inspired,” Hearn said. “He clearly influenced the entire design and I feel the greatest tribute you can make to a designer is to honor the routing of the course and also honor the original shapes and forms of the greens and bunkers.” A aerial photograph from 1930 was used by Hearn to create the renovation plan. Hearn said work on the second hole last summer, which included shifting the fairway for playability and adding a significant runoff area on the right side and behind the green, produced positive feedback from the club. “We are excited about the designs and work Ray Hearn is doing because they fit perfectly with our goals of attracting new members and restoring
the classic features of our course and improving what we feel is a hidden gem,” Don Nellis, a club board member and chairman of the renovation and restoration effort said. “The renovations completed at this point have already been called a remarkable success by our membership and we have great anticipation for this next phase.” Toledo-based Drew Rogers is working with the Pine Lake Country Club’s superintendent, Terry Poley to restore thid Willie Park Jr. classic that dates back to 1919. The storied club, which is also doing a significant renovation of its clubhouse and other facilities, has closed its golf course until next year to address infrastructure drainage issues, irrigation, cart path improvements and extensive work on bunkers and greens with new turf for sustainability and less water use. “The story of this club is one of continual transformation and influence,” Rogers told Golf Course Architecture magazine. “To say the course has been ‘tinkered with’ since 1924 would be an understatement. Holes have been repositioned and greens have radically changed shape. Holes have been re-bunkered and loads of trees planted. Today, it feels like you’re playing three to four different golf courses out there. The aerial photographs make it clear that Pine Lake in the 1930s was a superb, cohesive layout. My job is to refurbish the course to that high standard, while also creating a greater consistency of this vintage style and character.” BOYNE Golf includes ten courses on three resort properties, Bay Harbor Golf Club, The Highlands and Boyne Mountain Resort. Bernie Friedrich, director of golf course renovations and development, is working with Raymond Hearn on several projects to update and improve courses. BOYNE Golf most recently announced that construction is underway on a Hearn-designed nine-hole short course and an adjacent Himalayanstyle putting course near its Main Lodge at The Highlands resort property. Hearn said his favorite parts of the new par 3 project are the green complexes he is creating. “Drawing inspiration from some of my favorite greens in Scotland, Ireland, and America (Eden, Punch Bowl, Short, Redan, Reverse Redan, Partial Volcano, Steep Slope, Postage Stamp, and Biarritz) that I have played and studied over the years, I was able to create fun, ‘kinda-sorta’ scaled-down versions of the originals and route them along the ski slope with uphill, downhill, and sidehill holes creating some thrilling golf shots.” The new yet-to-be-named short course will be lit for nighttime rounds. Hearn said it is designed to first and foremost be fun and allow golfers of all levels to enjoy the experience. The course will feature downhill, flat, uphill and sidehill fairway lies, generally moving horizontally back and forth across the slope. The new Himalayan-style, ninehole putting course is being designed to be fun for all as well. The undulations will challenge and entertain all ages in a relaxed setting. Construction started in mid-July and is expected to be completed on the short course this fall. A planned course opening will be in the spring of 2024. Saint John’s Resort is planning to unveil its new championship 18-hole golf course, short course and putting course in 2024 creating what they are billing as the ultimate golf entertainment venue. Ray Hearn and LaBar Golf Renovations have completely altered the golf facilities in the last two years as part of a $50 million resort transformation under the property’s new ownership group, the non-profit Pulte Family Charitable Foundation. The new 18-hole golf course will be named “The Cardinal.” A seven-hole Par 3 course and a twoacre putting course aimed at entertaining all Michigan Golf Journal
ages and skill levels, are also part of the overall project. Hearn said he wanted to keep the scenic beauty of the property and deliver optimal shot values and strategy in the design while also featuring what he calls classic Golden Age green contours and bunkering. A five-tee system has been created on each hole of The Cardinal with the aim of creating a variety of options and yardages. “It has been a thrill to be able to work on this project for Saint John’s Resort and the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation,” said Hearn. “The land, with its natural glacier forms and beautiful hundred-year-old trees, was a great foundation to work with. We were able to save many of the old mature trees and create a routing that kept them in play around green sites and along fairways, which is a bit unique in today’s golf course architecture that focuses more on tree removal.”
Treetops Continues To Grow & Improve Treetops Resort has been one of the leading golf destinations in Northern Michigan for over 40 years. With four championship golf courses, plus the popular Threetops par 3, it has something for everyone. The natural sandhills, rolling terrain and forests provide the perfect landscape for these enjoyable courses. Barry Owens, General Manager of Treetops told Back 9 Report about the recent renovations to the courses, as well as the accommodations and dining. Treetops is continuing to improve their facilities to offer their guests the best possible experience. Michigan Golf Journal
When Rick Smith designed the Tradition course it was to be for golfers that liked their golf the old fashioned way, without carts. Over the years the trees had encroached the sight lines and too many trees make maintaining a course difficult. As part of their longrange plan, Treetops decided to cut down most of the trees surrounding the Tradition course and what they have created is a true gem. Back 9 Report talked with Doug Hoeh, who was recently named Director of Recreation for the resort and was instrumental in overseeing course renovations. With his extensive background in turf management and course maintenance, Hoeh also serves as the President of the Michigan Golf Course Superintendent Association. on the Jones Masterpiece Course. Each stop features an appetizer and after guests will return to the clubhouse for the main course of either Steak Oscar, Michigan Pork Chops, Wild Mushroom Ravioli, or Legends Airline Chicken Breast. There will also be the opportunity to take photos of the beautiful fall foliage across hillsides of Northern Michigan’s Most Spectacular Resort. The evening will wrap up at Legends restaurant overlooking the fall foliage, enjoying live entertainment, the main course and dessert. Reservations are required for this dining experience. Don’t wait seating is limited and this will fill up fast. To reserve your spot visit: www.treetops.com, or call 888-TREETOPS. Under the guidance of Barry Owens and Doug Hoeh Treetops continues to improve the golf experience at Treetops and create a bright future for the resort. Treetops to Host A Delightful Culinary Experience October 6, 7 and 13, Treetops culinary team led by Food & Beverage Director Greg Jones is celebrating Michigan’s most colorful season – autumn with a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. The first ever Fall Color Tour and Progressive Dinner will highlight the beauty of the Fall paired with mouth-watering cuisine that should create a memorable dining experience. Guests will be assigned a golf cart to visit four food stations
3962 WILKINSON ROAD GAYLORD, MI 49735 866.348.5249 The view from the top will mesmerize you. Take it all in. Play 81 holes of spectacular terrain with dramatic views, contours, and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. And once you get to that horizon, you’ll see why we’re called Treetops. CALL TO BOOK YOUR TEE TIME | 866.348.5249 Jones Masterpiece, #6
Cooler weather is rapidly approaching the Midwest and for those of us that want to get as many rounds in before the snow flies, it is important to have proper wardrobe layering for protection, while on the course. ZeroFit was founded in 2005 and has been providing comfortable baselayer clothing to keep golfers warm on those cool days. enthusiasts that enjoy the comfort of ZeroFit products. Motorcyclists, anglers, runners, hikers, sailors, gardeners, birdwatchers and equine enthusiasts all benefit from the innovative technologies that keep athletes and outdoorsmen protected from the elements. Wayne Johnson loves his ZeroFit Heatrub Ultimate baselayer, “Got the heatrub ultimate and has got to be warmest layer yet. Snug fit feels like a hug, warm and cozy. Also got golf sleeves and work super well, used while driving car to keep arms protected from sun. super product. Neck cover works real well also, covers the area but does not block breathing and loose enough does not affect head movement.” Whatever your sport, or outdoor activity, ZeroFit should be your baselayer brand of choice. For more information visit: https:// zerofitusa.com/. The award-winning Heatrub Ultimate baselayer was first unveiled in 2011 and since then hundreds of thousands of golfers and outdoor enthusiasts have discovered the benefits of wearing ZeroFit baselayers under their outerwear. Cynthia Blanche said of her ZeroFit experience, “An excellent product with great customer service and timely delivery. Well done ZeroFit!” ZeroFit has expanded their lineup to include leggings, socks and hoodies, as well as other products designed to cool users down in hot summer weather, plus offer protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Golfers are not the only sports ZeroFit Baselayers Keep Golfers Warm & Comfortable
two Pete Dye designed courses, a world-class spa, plus every amenity and activity imaginable. Mr. Hardy has passed, but left a lingering legacy to his love of golf and the outdoors. His daughter, Maggie now runs both 84 Lumber and the Nemacolin Resort and has continued to follow her father’s mantra to provide the best possible vacation destination The Nemacolin Resort was founded in 1987, when 84 Lumber owner, Joe Hardy bought 500 acres in the rolling hills of southwestern By Fred Altvater Pennsylvania to give his daughter opportunities to practice Fly Fishing in the nearby streams. Located approximately one hour southeast of Pittsburgh, it provided a convenient location for family getaways. Over the years Hardy continued to expand the property and today it encompasses 2,200 acres with three luxurious hotels, 18 dining opportunities, Michigan Golf Journal
Nemacolin Provides the Ultimate In Luxury & Amenities and each visitor’s experience memorable. Golf As a golf resort Nemacolin is unsurpassed. It boasts two of the finest Pete Dye designs to be found, Shepherd’s Rock and Mystic Rock. Mystic Rock is a true delight and hosted the 84 Lumber Classic, a stop on the PGA Tour, for seven years, 20002006. Past champions include; Chris Demarco, Robert Allenby, Dan Forsman, J.L. Lewis, Vijay Singh, Jason Gore and Ben Curtis. Michelle Wie was invited to compete in the 2006 tournament. She missed the cut, but made headlines competing with the men on the PGA Tour. Mystic Rock was ranked the ‘Best Course in Pennsylvania’ in both 2021 and 2022. It is slightly more difficult than its sister the 13th is nearly an impossible task. With five sets of tees any skill level golfer can enjoy playing either course and will have delightful stories to tell after their round. We found it difficult to choose which course we preferred, but it is safe to say, we look forward to going back and playing both again. course, Shepherd’s Rock, which opened for play in 2017 and was one of Dye’s last designs. Rock walls, waterfalls and statues are placed throughout Mystic Rock. Low areas, as well as steep hillsides combine to make every shot on the Mystic Rock course memorable. At 7,290 yards, from the back tees, it provides a true test for even the best golfers and provides jawdropping vistas of the Allegheny Mountains as you wind your way through the valleys and hillsides. Shepherd’s Rock has been ranked inside the top five courses in Pennsylvania on several occasions. Be sure to check out the cavernous hazard to the left of the 13th green. Two huge bunkers sit 12-14 feet below the putting surface and are surrounded by Dye’s signature railroad ties. If you miss the green left, saving par at
First-Class Lodging There are three excellent lodging options at Nemacolin. The Grand Lodge is currently undergoing a massive renovation and upgrade. The Chateau harkens back to the grandeur of French Royalty. One expects to see Marie Antoinette walking the hallways. Falling Rock is located closer to the golf courses and is perfect for any guest coming to the resort for golf. The pro shop is attached to the hotel and just a short walk puts you at the practice range, or the first tees of Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock. Home and condominium rentals are also available for larger groups, or families. I should mention that the service at Nemacolin is off the charts. A personal Butler can be requested to attend to a guest’s every need. Back 9 Report had the chance to chat with Donna Herto, Chris Anderson and Mike LaBella about everything that Nemacolin has to offer. Aqueous, inside the Falling Rock Hotel, is set in architectural artistry inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. This Forbes 4-star and AAA 4-Diamond restaurant features fresh seafood providing an unforgettable culinary experience. Lautrec is one of only 35 restaurants worldwide that have received both a 5-Star and 5-Diamond awards. Their culinary team delivers a sixcourse chef’s tasting menu that showcases the freshest ingredients of the season. It is known for farm-to-table delights from local and regional growers. Complementing the cuisine at Lautrec is a 1,200-bottle wine list from the resort’s own prized wine cellar. The sommelier will assure your selection goes perfectly with your menu selection. Fawn & Fable features a menu filled with steakhouse classics grilled to perfection. Timeless American fare is prepared from the finest locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. This restaurant combines the traditional steakhouse with a fairytale castle. Fawn & Fable is one of the most magical dining experiences in the land. In addition, Barattolo serves traditional Italian fare. Rockwell’s Bistro pays homage to a French Bistro and offers the best cuts of meats from local producers, plus it has an extensive wine collection. Delicious Dining There are 18 various dining options at Nemacolin. Fine dining is available at Aqueous, Lautrec and Fawn & Fable. Michigan Golf Journal
Mulligan’s, in the Falling Rock Hotel, serves sandwiches and classic summer favorites poolside, as well as to golfers making the turn on the Mystic Rocks Golf Course. There is also dining at The Peak, Sunset Terrace, the Patisserie and P.J’s Ice Cream Parlor for quick bites and cool desserts. Spa & Wellness Nemacolin places a special emphasis on Health and Wellness. The Woodlands Spa & Salon, Holistic Healing Center and Fitness Club focus on the entire body. Get a good workout at the Fitness Center and then relax at the Woodlands Spa & Salon. It offers a complete range of relaxing treatments, rejuvenating therapies and luxurious salon services. Specialists at the Holistic Healing Center provide guests with an innovative and personalized approach to life balance and integrated wellness. Services available include; acupuncture, specialty massage, yoga, salt-water float, infrared light, cryotherapy and NovaTHOR PBM therapies. The Peak The Peak delivers limitless, year-round fun for the entire family. It sits near the ski slope for winter fun and the pool is always heated for outdoor swimming and relaxing even when temperatures drop. In the summer cabanas, live entertainment, delicious drinks and dining can all be enjoyed poolside. The Peak is always an adventure just waiting to happen. Lady Luck Casino When you are not in the pool, spa, or on the golf course, the Lady Luck Casino has all your favorite games of chance. There are 600 gaming machines to choose from, plus 26 tables provide blackjack, roulette, craps and other popular games. Summary As you can see the Nemacolin Resort is everything you are looking for in an allencompassing vacation getaway. If you are looking for the finest food, golf, spa and dining options with a complete list of activities to fill up your visit, Nemacolin should be at the top of your wish list. Visit https://www.nemacolin.com/#real-lifemagic to plan your fantastic adventure.
During the celebration commercials will appear on the Golf Channel and other media outlets, as well as social media messages sharing the many ways superintendents benefit the game and their communities. Golfers, who depend on their course superintendents to keep their courses playable, are encouraged to join in the conversation on social media using the hashtags; “#ThankASuper,” or “#ThankAGreenkeeper.” Courses are encouraged to provide special recognition for Thank A Golf Superintendent Day By Fred Altvater Every golfer loves the feeling of walking down a pristine fairway, striking that perfect iron shot that lands softly on the short grass and then sink the birdie putt that had traverses over a perfectly manicured green. For that you should thank your golf course superintendent. September 12th has been designated for just that purpose, “Thank A Golf Course Superintendent Day.” The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) will be celebrating its 97th birthday on that day and everyone is encouraged to thank their course superintendent. This is an international event. The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), the Australia Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA), the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) and The Federation of European Golf Greenkeepers Associations (FEGGA) are also joining in the celebration. These groups together represent more than 31,000 golf course management professionals in 78 countries around the world. Michigan Golf Journal
their superintendent and course maintenance staff on that day. Show your support on Social Media, use the hashtag, #ThankASuper. The GCSAA The Golf Course Superintendents Association was officially founded in 1926, but the first meeting of American greenskeepers and golf course maintenance workers was actually held at Sylvania Country Club in Toledo, in 1916. S.P. Jermain, who was responsible for designing and building Ottawa Park Golf Course in 1898, saw a need for golf course superintendents to share ideas and study best turf practices. He invited several golf course workers to the meeting and from this first meeting in Toledo the GCSAA was formed ten years later. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas, the GCSAA provides education, information and representation to more than 19,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Do your part on September 12, Thank your local Golf Course Superintendent. To learn more about GCSAA and the essential role superintendents play in the enjoyment and sustainability of the game, visit www.gcsaa.org.
Tips For Planning Your Fall Golf Trip To Norheast Florida September is the harbinger to colder weather in the Northern portion of the country and golfers from Michigan, Ohio and Indiana are beginning to think about heading south for a winter golf getaway. There are plenty of great golf opportunities in Northeastern Florida. Here are a few tips to make your winter golf vacation more enjoyable. By Brian Weis 5 1. Enjoy Everything The First Coast Has To Offer! Florida’s First Coast is at its very best in the autumn. The leaves might not change colors, but there is still plenty of blue water, white sandy beaches, green golf courses and other colorful attractions along the northeastern coast of Florida. Michigan Golf Journal
What’s brighter and more colorful than juicy-ripe fruits and veggies at a local farmer’s market? The farmer’s market season is in full swing in the fall, and one can find farmer’s markets in every county in Northeast Florida. Fall would not be fall without college football. If you need a college football fix while in Florida, catch a Florida State of University of Florida game. Northeastern Florida also has a vibrant local beverage scene. To learn more about the local establishments take the Manifest Distillery tour, the Jacksonville Ale Trail, or the Clay County Coffeehouse itinerary. By the way, northeastern Florida has a large variety of golf courses that are perfect in the fall. 2. Don’t Forget The Kids! Don’t leave the kids at home, three North Florida resorts are child-friendly. as surf camps and kayak, paddleboard, surfboard, boogie board, and Hobie Cat rentals ** The Mighty Oaks Kids Zone, an outdoor venue where parents and kids of all ages can play and spend quality time ** Miniature golf and ping pong The Omni Amelia Island Resort This spectacular resort on Amelia Island is home to the Oak Marsh golf course, a classic Pete Dye-designed course known for its tight fairways and small greens lined with the signature moss-draped heritage oaks. The resort also offers a variety of activities for children, teens and young adults, including the following: ** A gigantic poolscape with a family pool and splash park, perfect for small children The Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa This resort is one of Florida’s most celebrated golf destinations. But did you know that in addition to worldclass golf, it also offers a whole range of family-friendly activities? You and your kids will have access to all of these amenities and more: ** Multiple swimming pools, including a kids’ pool ** Pristine beaches and the Cabana Beach Club, offering activities such
** Pristine beach with chair, cabana, boogie board, and beach game rentals ** Miniature golf ** Camp Amelia, where guests aged 4 to 10 can discover nature and learn about sea life during interactive learning excursions ** A state-of-the-art gamer’s lounge ** Movie nights ** Family bonfires & s’mores Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa For a truly unique experience that will thrill all members of the family, head to this beachfront resort set against pristine, natural wetlands. While the parents test their skills on one of the resort’s two award-winning golf courses, kids can enjoy fun-filled days as part of Kids Crew, with activities such as scavenger hunts, beach games, pool activities, and more. Morning and evening drop-off times are available. to enjoy North Florida, too. The sheer number and range of golf courses ensures that, whether your senior is experienced, or simply a casual golfer, they will be able to find a golf course to suit their preferences. The Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches Senior Games are held every fall, this year September 15-30th, with the golf event scheduled to take place on September 23rd. Anyone over the age of 50 can participate in the games, regardless of skill level. Kids and adults alike will also love the 91,000 square foot water park featuring a lazy river and water flume, plus the opportunity to explore the area on bikes. One-hour bicycle rentals are included in the resort fee. Beyond these three resorts, you will find plenty of fun activities for your whole family to enjoy in Northeast Florida. If you are thinking of visiting with the kids in November, plan to head to Jacksonville. During Kids Free November, kids under 12 will have free access to many of Jacksonville’s most famous attractions, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Catty Shack Ranch and Wildlife Sanctuary, museums and historical sites, and more. 3. Golf For Every Age There are plenty of opportunities for senior golfers Michigan Golf Journal
Seniors who stay at the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa will not only be near the Senior Games venues, they can also enjoy access to the full range of amenities that this world-class resort has to offer. Senior golfers may particularly enjoy golfing at the famous Palm Harbor Golf Club, where they can bask in the full glory of historic Florida. The club’s 18-Hole, 72 par course is conveniently located between Daytona Beach and Historic St. Augustine area and offers a daily play fee. 4. Perfect Golf Weather With an average daytime high of over 60 degrees and nearly 1,000 of the best golf holes of the Sunshine State, Northeast Florida is the perfect fall destination. A word to the wise ** Bring lightweight jackets and long sleeve shirts ** Bring warm weather, high-compression golf balls as well as some softer, low-compression balls, which are more effective in cooler weather. ** Bring sunscreen AND an umbrella. In changing weather conditions, you might need both items on the same hole Traveling in the area and realize you forgot an essential? Don’t worry! The PGA Tour Superstore can supply you with anything you need. 5. Choose A Course To Enhance Your Game Northeast Florida is the perfect place to perfect your game. With a variety of courses to choose from, there’s something for every skill level. Looking to play like a pro? Choose TPC Sawgrass and play where the champions play. For a short game, try one of the area’s 9-hole courses, a great place to really improve your technique. Practice your chipping at an oceanfront club or strengthen your left-handed swing in the marshlands of Florida. Fall into Florida’s First Coast of Golf this Year and Don’t Miss Out! There is something for everyone and there’s no better time of year to take a golf vacation with the whole family. Are you ready to start planning? Check out our vacation packages here.
performance tracking—all in one package. They combined the PRO LX laser rangefinder with their H4 GPS distance measuring device and individual club tag performance tracking in the new PRO LX+ package. A common on course scenario might be using the PRO LX laser rangefinder to determine that it’s exactly 153 yards to the pin, but the built-in slope correction feature pegs the distance more accurately at 151. The H4 GPS breaks down the front, middle and back yardages, plus lets you know 120 yards are needed to clear the creek in front. Once you decide on the correct iron, a tag located in the butt end of the club sends the information to the Pro LX+. When your round is completed, the data can be uploaded to the Shot Scope’s NEW PRO LX+ By Ed Travis Shot Scope, based in Edinburgh, Scotland, makes and sells a wide selection of GPS watches, laser rangefinders and GPS handhelds. With their new PRO LX+ they have combined a laser rangefinder with a GPS yardage device plus club and Michigan Golf Journal
mobile APP to provide a more detailed analysis of your round. This pretty much covers it all, just leaving you with the task of hitting the shots. Users will like the easy-to-handle shape of the PRO LX rangefinder and that the H4 GPS battery Shot Scope says lasts for 15+ hours. David Hunter CEO of Shot Scope was quoted in the press announcement saying, “2023 has been an exciting year for Shot Scope as we launched a full suite of innovations and truly created an ecosystem for golfers to choose the distance measuring and/or performance tracking product that best fits their game, as well as their budget. The centerpiece of our product lineup is the PRO LX+, a 3-in-1 multi-function system that features advanced distance measuring technology with unprecedented performance tracking.” Fast Facts Shot Scope PRO LX+ –– 7x magnification—900 yard range –– Red or black optics –– Slope on/off –– GPS front/middle/back green yardages –– Hazard carry and layup distances –– 36,000 courses preloaded –– 16 tracking tags –– No subscription cost for the mobile app –– 100 game & swing stats –– Two year warranty –– Choice of blue, grey, orange –– Cart magnet –– Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price: $369.99
Our Contributors This Month Ed Travis Brian Weis Brian Verdugo Ed Travis is a national award winning golf journalist and has had a lifelong love affair with the game. He has competed in tournament golf both as an amateur and as a senior professional and though his competitive days are behind him, he still plays regularly and carries a handicap of 2. https://www.facebook.com/ ed.travis.98 Brian Weis travels the world to help golfers find the best destinations and resorts. His website, GolfTrips.com contains all the information necessary to help plan your next golf adventure. Find him on Facebook. Brian Verdugo is the CEO and Founder of iGolf. His idea began as a golf GPS company, but morphed into a portfolio of advanced technologies licensed and deployed into millions of products in the golfing sector, primarily focused around its database of GPS mapped golf courses. Learn more at www.igolf.com Michigan Golf Journal
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