August202 Pinehurst Continues toExpand Georgia’sSkyValeyis aMountainParadise AlAboutCharityFor theAlyChalenge WMU’sKimMore WinsUSGAAdaptive Women’sOpen
July saw the successful completion of the Rocket Mortgage Classic and the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational. While the Dow was the beneficiary of many of the LPGA’s top names. Women’s golf legend Anika Sorenstam teamed with her friend Madalene Sagstrom to allow Midland golf fans to see the Hall of Famer and she did not disappoint. Her grace and winning attitude is something every young athlete should strive to emulate. August will see the PGA Tour Champions invade Warwick Hills Golf Club in Grand Blanc for the fifth Ally Challenge presented by McLaren. Although the golf should be entertaining, two concerts during tournament week from Grand Funk Railroad’s Mark Farner and Country Music star Kane Brown, should get golf fans rocking. The Ally Challenge mission is to raise charitable funds for area non-profits. In the first four years alone they have generated over $4.5 million to that effort and are to be commended. We took the time to visit BOYNE Resort in July and enjoyed watching a local qualifier for Drive, Chip & Putt. It is always great to see the kids competing and trying their best. The PGA, The USGA and The Masters have done a marvelous job of making this one of the most successful junior golf programs ever. Finally, our friend and Editor of the Indiana Golf Journal, Mike May spent some time filling divots on two golf courses in the Indianapolis area and we added his experience in this issue. For those of us who know Mike, he is adamant about filling old divots left by uncaring golfers and hopefully his ardor will rub off on a few more golfers. Hope you enjoy the August issue of Michigan Golf Journal and I hope I will see you on the Back 9 of your favorite golf course. Concerts, Charity & Divots FRED ALTVATER PUBLISHER Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Ohio Golf Journal Indiana Golf Journal Back 9 Report Michigan Golf Journal
NOW, THIS IS GOLF Go to BoyneGolf.com or cal l 855-554-0289 BRING YOUR “A” GAME. With 10 magnificent courses, and non-stop flights to TVC from 17 popular destinations, why wait? Lock in your 2022 golf plans today.
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 30 FIND INSIDE 16 22 28 33 Pinehurst ‘The Home of American Golf’ Continues to Expand Michigan Golf News Western Michigan’s Kim Moore Wins Inaugural U.S. Adaptive Women’s Open Ally Challenge Generates Millions for Flint-Area Charities Boyne Golf: Where Golfers Gather For Great Golf & More Please Replace Your Divots: For the Health of Golf 06 19 10 13 16 28 Trouble Around the Greens? Try PING’s NEW ChipR Wisconsin’s Sand Valley Continues to Grow & Impress 26 22 Our Contributors Find Friendly People & Great Golf in Sky Valley Georgia SQAIRZ Releases New Mesh Design Reynolds Lake Oconee Has It All Our Favorite Videos 38 30 36 33 39 Michigan Golf Journal
Calling these “the best of times” around the Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area of North Carolina might seem like it’s saying a lot, but sometimes the shoe simply fits. Just take a look at everything that is currently happening around the ‘Home of American Golf.’ Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club recently celebrated its fourth U.S. Women’s Open; it was Pinehurst ‘The Home of American Golf’ Continues to Expand a rousing success, crowning another worthy champion, Minjee Lee. The 26-year-old Australian joined her mentor, 2001 champion Karrie Webb, along with Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam and Cristie Kerr on the Pine Needles Wall of Champions. Soon after the final putt dropped at Pine Needles, thoughts around the Sandhills turned to its next national championship, the 2024 U.S. Open at By Brad King Michigan Golf Journal
Pinehurst No. 2. It will be one of five U.S. Open Championships in the area by 2047, including another back-to-back Men’s and Women’s U.S. Open at No. 2 in 2029. The USGA also staged the inaugural U.S. Adaptive Open in July on Pinehurst No. 6; the event will return next year, as well. All of which is part of the USGA’s historic move to establish its second home in Pinehurst. In an effort to expand its impact in golf and extend its mission to champion and advance the game, the USGA is in the midst of constructing “Golf House Pinehurst,” a six-acre campus that will be completed by the end of 2023. It will include a new equipment-testing facility, innovation hub, museum and visitor center, and offices housing 50 full-time USGA staff members. The USGA Experience will present an immersive viewofgolfandtheUSGA’sworktounify,showcase, govern and advance the game. Designed by Luci Creative, the Science of Golf and Championship galleries will feature interactive multimedia displays that incorporate augmented reality, interactive touch screens, sculptures and trophies. The USGA Golf Museum Special Exhibitions will uncover the organization’s deep collection of golf artifacts – the most comprehensive collection in the world.
The USGA’s Research and Test Center will be the only one of its kind in North America solely dedicated to testing golf balls and clubs for conformance to the Rules of Golf. At the USGA Shop, golfers will be able to purchase various products with the USGA championship logo of their choice as well as exhibit-related specialty items. The USGA is also partnering with Pinehurst Resort to construct an outdoor testing pavilion and STEM education space near the resort’s main practice facility, including a mechanical golfer and ball launcher to demonstrate and evaluate golf ball aerodynamics. “We love being a part of the Home of American Golf and bringing this vision to life,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. In addition, the 2023 Atlantic Coast Conference Men’s Championship will be contested at The Country Club of North Carolina’s Dogwood Course, originally designed by Ellis Maples and Willard Byrd and considered one of the state’s top five courses. CCNC has a long history of hosting elite golf championships, including the U.S. Amateur, U.S. Girls and Boys Junior Championships, Southern Amateur and North Carolina Amateur. For fans of the latest in golf technology, Talamore Resort has recently debuted its Toptracer Range. Talamore guests can experience interactive golf powered by Toptracer Range technology, which uses high-speed cameras, coupled with sophisticated computer algorithms, to provide instantaneous ball tracking information. “There are so many different things you can do with it. You can play other courses including Pinehurst No. 2 or Pebble Beach, you can play Topgolf, you can do long drives, you can do closest to the pins,” said Talamore Golf Resort General Manager Matt Hausser. “We have so much repeat business, it’s nice for them to keep Michigan Golf Journal
coming back and finding something else here. We have 10 bays, so 40 people can use Toptracer Range at one time. It will be open till dark and the halfway house is conveniently located for food and drinks.” In addition, the entire Talamore practice range has been upgraded and a new, 15,000-squarefoot putting course is being installed between the driving range and the 10th tee boxes that is expected to open in early fall. Guests can warm up or practice on the putting course, while waiting for Toptracer, or simply settling a few friendly wagers, after their round. Longtime Pinehurst resident and golf legend, Peggy Kirk Bell’s family owns Pines Needles, Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club, and Southern Pines Golf Club. They recently renovated Southern Pines and are planning to build a large practice putting green, as well as a handful of new cottages there, as well. Pinehurst Resort has reportedly been planning to announce Pinehurst No. 10 at some point soon, while a new distillery and a new hotel are also on the drawing board for the area. In addition, the North Carolina DOT has recommended replacing the Pinehurst Traffic Circle with a traditional interchange, which is expected to smooth the flow of traffic around the area. “This destination is always evolving, always building for the future,” said Phil Werz, president and CEO of the Pinehurst, Southern Pines Aberdeen Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). “We’re not a bucket list destination, we’re a place we want people to keep choosing because there’s something new to see and do every time they return.” The best of times in the Home of American Golf? That time is now. Learn more at www. HomeofGolf.com.
Women’s Division Western Michigan University Head Women’s Golf Coach, Kim Moore won the inaugural U.S. Adaptive Women’s Open at Pinehurst last month. Moore was born with a clubbed left foot and spina bifida, but that did not prevent her from playing collegiate golf for the University of Indianapolis. She took a four-shot lead into the third and final round but stretched her lead to eight shots. “I knew if I just kept making pars, it would be tough to catch me, because birdies were hard to get out there. It’s humbling to be a part of golf history.” Moore posted rounds of 76-80-76 on Pinehurst No. 6 for the victory over Ryanne Jackson, from St. Petersburg, Florida. Moore said, “I just think what has been seen this week around the world, around the country, is going to elevate the amputee community, the adaptive community and it’s pretty cool to see.” Moore has been at Western Michigan since 2020 after spending seven years at Saint Mary’s College, where WesternMichigan’s Kim MooreWins Inaugural U.S. AdaptiveWomen’s Open “A Disability is Not an Inability.” the Belles earned trips to the NCAA Division III Championships, in 2017 and again in 2018. Back 9 Report talked with Kim Moore about her historic win and coaching golf at Western Michigan. Mou – insert black rectangle for video Moore coached one All-American, two AllRegion selections and 14 First Team All-MIAA selections during her time at Saint Mary’s. Three of her student-athletes also went on to win the league MV, plus her players have accumulated 14 Academic All-Americans awards. Michigan Golf Journal
Men’s Division The Men’s Division Champion, Korean Simon Seungmin Lee is autistic and was in a competitive battle with Felix Norrman, of Sweden. Both were tied for the lead, at threeunder par, after 54 holes of regulation play. Lee had held a two-stroke lead after the second round, but Norrman, who suffers from tuberous sclerosis, a neurological condition, erased the deficit to gain the tie. Lee birdied the first hole of a two-hole aggregate playoff to take a one up lead. Norrman, forced to play aggressively, bogeyed the final hole, while Lee made a comfortable par to seal the win. Lee is a remarkable story. He became the first golfer with a developmental disability to gain conditional status on the Korean PGA Tour in 2017. At the age of 20, he was assessed to having the communication skills of a 10-year-old. watch their joy and the desire to play in a legit national championship. This is as good as it gets. I’m ecstatic that I could be here.” The first U.S. Adaptive Open Championship for both men and women was a total success. The USGA has scored a home run with this new venture and should be commended for getting this done. Kudos also to Pinehurst for hosting this important golf championship. To learn more about the U.S. Adaptive Golf Championship visit USGA.org Lee’s symptoms were first diagnosed early inhis childhood, and he has attributed golf as, “The light of the world to me and a way to communicate with people.” In all, 96 golfers from 29 states and 11 countries competed in the eight impairment categories. Former PGA Tour Professional Ken Green, who lost his leg in an accident in 2009 placed sixth overall and second in the leg impairment category said, “I got to meet so many new people and to
On August 22-28 historic Warwick Hills Golf Club in Grand Blanc will once again come alive with the roars from golf fans as the PGA TOUR Champions will compete in the 5th Ally Challenge presented by McLaren. In all 78 professionals will compete for a piece of the $2 million purse. The event benefits local charities in the greater Flint area and all three rounds will be televised on the Golf Channel. The defending champion Joe Durant will be joined by other former Ally Challenge champions, Ally Challenge Generates Millions for Flint-Area Charities Jim Furyk, Jerry Kelly, and Paul Broadhurst. Fan favorites Bernhard Langer, David Toms and Retief Goosen will also be on hand to entertain golf fans. Following the first day of play on Friday, August 26, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort will present the Concert @17, featuring Mark Farner. Farner, a member of the rock group Grand Funk Railroad, is the son of a highly decorated World
War II veteran, plus his mother was the first woman to be a welder making Sherman Tanks for the war effort. He is a true patriot and works tirelessly to honor all service personnel. “The Concert @17 presented by Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort is a great addition to tournament week at the Ally Challenge,” said tournament representative Rob Frederick. “Building a first-class experience for our spectators has been a primary goal of the tournament from the beginning, and to bring classic rock legend and Michigan native Mark Farner to the famed 17th hole at Warwick Hills on Friday night is a big win for our fans.” After the conclusion of the second round of play on Saturday, Country Music star Kane Brown, will take the stage Birdies for Charity presented by Ally is a grassroots charity platform, now in its fifth year, that serves as an extension of The Ally Challenge’s mission to positively impact nonprofit organizations. This successful program has helped 80 participating Michigan charitable organizations and has raised more than $1.6 million since it began in 2018. Each time a ticket, purchased with a charity’s special promo code, is scanned at a tournament admissions gate on Sunday, August 28, The Ally Challenge presented by McLaren will donate $10 to that designated charity. In addition, a $5,000 bonus pool will be split amongst the top three charities receiving the most scanned tickets. to entertain the fans. Brown signed with RCA Nashville in 2016 and is one of the bright new stars in Country Music. Tickets for both concerts can be purchased at https:// theallychallenge.com/tickets/ ticket-information/ The primary purpose of the Ally Challenge is to generate funds to support Flint-area charities. The primary beneficiary of the 2022 Ally Challenge will be the United Way of Genesee County. In its first four years, Ally Challenge presented by McLaren has raised more than $4.5 million in support of local charities. Michigan Golf Journal
Golfers dream about playing Pebble Beach, hope to play St. Andrews, and pray for the chance to play Augusta National. Those dreams, hopes, and prayers may never come true, but every golfer who craves a classic golf getaway should visit northern Michigan to play all Magnificent 10 courses at BOYNE Resort. Located 90 minutes north of Traverse City, near the lakeside community of Petoskey, BOYNE Resort is one of America’s most appealing and accessible golf destinations – especially in the late spring, summer, and early fall. BOYNE Golf can be summarized by three numbers: Ten, Three, and One. Ten golf courses, Three resorts, in One destination. It’s not an overstatement to say that BOYNE Golf may well be the standard by which all U.S. golf resorts are nowmeasured. BOYNE’s ten golf courses are well designed and are maintained with meticulous attention to detail. Their three locations, Bay Harbor, The Highlands at Harbor Springs, and Boyne Mountain are first-class. When bundled into one package, BOYNE rises to the top of anybody’s wish list. Back 9 Report recently visited BOYNE and chatted with Director of Sales & Marketing Ken Griffen, Director of Golf, Casey Powers and Director of Tournaments & Competition, Scott Pussehl. Watch the video to learn more about the recent happenings at BOYNE. Mou make a black rectangle for the video Boyne Golf: Where Golfers Gather For Great Golf & More By Mike May Michigan Golf Journal
Bay Harbor Golf Club: Lakeside Jewel The Bay Harbor Golf Club features 45-holes -- three ninehole golf courses (Links, Quarry, Preserve) and the 18-hole Crooked Tree Golf Club. The Inn at Bay Harbor and the Bay Harbor Golf Club are both set along a scenic five-mile stretch of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline. Several of the holes on the Links course hug the Lake Michigan coastline with jaw-dropping views. The Quarry course was designed within the remnants of an old shale quarry with several tee shots struck from elevated tees. TheQuarry routing brings golfers back to the Lake Michigan coastline for both the 17th and 18th holes. The Preserve starts in the presence of a hardwood forest and concludes with a par three overlooking Little Traverse The Highlands at Harbor Springs: Four Brilliant Courses Highlands at Harbor Springs is an impressive destination with four 18-hole golf courses: The Heather, Arthur Hills, Donald Ross Memorial, and The Moor. The Heather is the oldest course in BOYNE’s impressive portfolio. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., it opened in 1966. The most recent accolade bestowed upon The Heather speaks for itself as it was named the 2019 National Golf Course Operators Association’s Course of the Year. The Arthur Hills course hosted Big Break X on Golf Channel. Standing on the 13th hole’s elevated tee, over 4,000 acres of non-inhabited forest is visible in the distance. The Donald Ross Memorial is a creative collection of some of Ross’s finest holes from 14 of his classic golf course designs. Of the 14 courses used to build the Ross Memorial, they have hosted 14 U.S. Opens, 11 PGA Championships, eight U.S. Amateurs, and five Ryder Cups. Bay. The Preserve has spacious fairways surrounded by tall grasses, native wetlands and wildflowers. The 18-hole Crooked Tree Golf Club is situated on the bluffs overlooking the Inn at Bay Harbor. The front nine at Crooked Tree winds its way through the forest, while the back nine provides amazing views overlooking Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. The Inn at Bay Harbor is a beautiful, iconic hotel. In addition to the contemporary look inside the Inn at Bay Harbor’s rooms, guests enjoy unobstructed views of Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. If you are traveling with a group, 22 modern lakeside cottages area also available at Bay Harbor.
Courses represented at Donald Ross Memorial include Pinehurst #2, Plainfield Country Club, Oak Hill Country Club, Scioto Country Club, Inverness Golf Club and Charlotte Country Club. Twists and turns are a common theme at The Moor, especially the front nine, which has four left-to-right doglegs. Accommodations at The Highlands at Harbor Springs range from private, on-site cottages to spacious rooms inside the lodge. The lodge’s breakfast buffet is first-class. BOYNE Mountain: Two Loops Boyne Mountain features two dynamic 18-hole courses -- The Monument and Alpine -- along with the charming Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa. Boyne Mountain is perfect for families with the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, junior golf camps, and various kid’s golf programs. Golf Digest named BOYNE Mountain one of its “Top10 Destinations for Family Golf Trips.” With the elevated mountain setting the Alpine course has a number of photo ops especially looking down to Deer Lake. The Alpine is fairly open, which allows wayward drives to be found. The Monument course at BOYNE Mountain was designed by borrowing the design tendencies and philosophies from great golf course architects like Donald Ross, Dr. Alister Mackenzie, George Fazio, Pete Dye, and Robert Trent Jones, Sr, plus it also pays tribute to some of America’s most accomplished and memorable golfers. BOYNE GOLF Awaits Again, you don’t have to dream, hope, or pray about visiting BOYNE Golf, you just have to pick the dates, reserve tee times, and go play. The Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City receives direct flights from 20 different major U.S. airports and is a short drive to BOYNE once you land. Access BoyneGolf.com for complete details. Michigan Golf Journal
Golf News Michigan Renovated Chalets at Treetops Now Open The six newly renovated Chalets at Treetops offer two- and three-bedroom designs, each with its own bathroom! Each Chalet has an upper and lower unit. These beautifully crafted Chalets include modern amenities and spacious living areas perfect for skiers and golf groups alike. In the middle of the units is a large putting green for late evening practice, or to settle the odd wager. These units are booking fast visit: https://www.treetops.com/, or call 866-348-5249 to book now for ski season, or to schedule your favorite golf foursome in 2023. Women on Fairways has organized a fall golf trip to Boyne Resort in September Women on Fairways and Boyne Resort in Northern Michigan will host a ‘Swing & Sip’ fall golf experience, September 6-11. Twelve women will taste the delicious wines along the Petoskey wine trail, visit historic Mackinac Island, as well as enjoy a unique shopping experience in Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Harbor Springs. The all-inclusive Package Includes: ~ 5-nights in a 2-bedroom Lakeside Cottage at Inn at Bay Harbor ~ 3 rounds of golf - The Heather, Arthur Hills, Links/Quarry ~ Daily breakfast & lunch at the golf courses ~ Welcome reception & final night dinner ~ Group activity to Mackinaw Island & Petoskey Wine Trail ~ Round-trip airport transportation ~ $100 resort credit For more information: www.womenonfairways. com/golf-trips To book email: info@womenonfairways.com or call 602-750-7070
Kupcho & Salas Win Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational LPGA Tour veteran Lizette Salas teamed with one of the hottest young stars on the women’s golf tour, Jennifer Kupcho to win the 2022 Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational last month. Salas has been a stalwart women’s professional golfer since she joined the LPGA in 2011. This was Salas’ second tour victory. She has earned over $7 million in her career, plus has been a member of five Solheim Cup Teams. Most recently Salas and Kupcho teamed up to record a 2-0-1 record in the 2021 Solheim Cup held in Toledo last year. Kupcho is one of the brightest stars of the LPGA with three wins this season. Earlier this year she won the Chevron Championship, for her first major championship. Most recently she captured the Meijer Classic in Grand Rapids. Her second win in Michigan this year brings her season total to $1.8 million and is currently No. 2 in the Race to the CME, behind only Min Jee Lee. Ohio Golfer Wins JOHN SHIPPEN Invitational Wyatt Worthington, from Reynoldsburg, Ohio earned an exemption into the Rocket Mortgage Classic by winning the JOHN SHIPPEN National Golf Invitational. Worthington also competed in the inaugural SHIPPEN last year and has played in two PGA TOUR events previously. He qualified for two PGA Championships, the 2016 PGA at Baltusrol and the 2022 PGA at Southern Hills. Worthington II carded a first round one-overpar 73 and started the final round five shots back of first round co-leaders Chase Johnson and Everett Whitten Jr. Worthington II rode a hot putter en route to eight final-round birdies, including four on the final nine holes, to capture the tournament title. His 36-hole total of 138 was one stroke better than Michael Herrera, who placed second. “I’m excited to get more experience inside the ropes. This opportunity was earned and I’m excited to compete.” THE JOHN SHIPPEN Invitational is designed to showcase Black amateur and professional golfers. John Shippen was the first Americanborn golf professional and also the country’s first Black golf professional. Michigan Golf Journal
Laopakdee & Meng Win Titles at BOYNE AJGA Event The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) made its 22nd annual stop at The Highlands at Harbor Springs for the Coca Cola Junior Championship. This tournament is open to AJGA members between the ages of 12-18. It began with an 18-hole qualifier followed by 54-holes of stroke play on the Moor Course at BOYNE Highlands. Meng is an AJGA veteran, this was her second AJGA victory, plus she was a member of the 2020 Junior All-Star Team. Maxwell VanderMolen and Lorenzo Pinili both from Michigan tied for third. Two more Michigan golfers Connor Fox and Leandro Pinili finished tied for sixth. Jessica Jolly from Rockford, Michigan finished T-10 and was the highest ranking Michigander in the Girls Division. The AJGA is the most respected junior golf association in the country with alumni such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jordan Spieth, Paula Creamer, Stacy Lewis and countless others. This is how the game should be played. Ambitious challenges. Stunning views. An old-school Donald Ross layout, and Pete Dye’s modern gem. It all comes together at Indiana’s favorite golf destination. frenchlick.com/golf • 888-936-9360 Just the way golf intended. Management reserves the right to cancel or modify any event without notice. Must be 21 years or older to enter the casino. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.9.WITH.IT or text INGAMB to 53342! The elite field of young amateur golfers was comprised of players from 19 states and five countries. Ten players have made college commitments, there were 45 competitors from Michigan and 26 players in the field had won AJGA previously. Pongsapak Laopakdee of Thailand posted 14-under par for 54 holes on the Moor Course to win the Boys Division for his first AJGA victory. Laopakdee has signed his letter of intent to play collegiately for the Arizona State University Sun Devils and is a member of the Thailand National Golf Team. Megan Meng from New Jersey won the Girls Division with a total of 9-under par for the three rounds.
Wisconsin’s Sand Valley Continues to Grow & Impress Sand Valley’s two 18-hole championship courses, Sand Valley and Mammoth Dunes, are lauded by every golfer making the trek to the middle of Wisconsin. However, when we asked some of the locals to pick their favorite course they didn’t hesitate to go in another direction. The Sandbox was the overwhelming favorite. The par-3 short course forces a player to both think his way around and have fun at the same time. The Sandbox The 17 holes on the Sandbox measure between 50 and 150 yards. There is even an extra shoveldesigned tee marker on each hole for those wishing to have the extra challenge of playing the course as putting only. By Len Ziehm Michigan Golf Journal
Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed the Sandbox with interesting humps, bumps and elevation changes, plus several deep bunkers to keep things interesting. They have done several golf projects at Keiser’s other golf properties. Short courses have become very popular at resorts and choosing a favorite isn’t easy, but for me, it comes down to either the Sandbox, or the Cradle at the Pinehurst. They are both unique, but the Sandbox gets my nod as more fun of the two. Keiser is responsible for Bandon Dunes on the Oregon coastline that set a new trend in mustplay golf resorts in the United States. He became enthralled with links courses in Scotland and Ireland and brought that passion back to the United States. Sand Valley opened in 2017, the courses are now mature and hosted the Wisconsin State Amateur, the most significant event to be held there thus far. Keiser’s Bandon Dunes has contracted to host several USGA Amateur Championships, we expect Sand Valley to join the list of USGA host sites in the future. The Lido The next course to open at SandValley will be the highly anticipated, The Lido, in 2023.
Michigan Golf Journal
The original Lido Golf Club was a private facility built in 1917 on Long Island with Charles Blair Macdonald as its designer. It was called “the most demanding course ever built.’’ It only measured 6,693 yards from the back tees, a respectable distance for hickory-shafted clubs, but not so much for modern technology. The Lido was demolished by the U.S. Navy during World War II and Tom Doak’s recreation of it at Sand Valley is being touted as the real thing. Sledge Valley Scheduled to open in 2024, Sledge Village will add something new to the resort. A residential complex with 36 homes will be constructed along with the Sledge Valley golf course, six-acre putting course, a tennis center, bistro restaurant, pool house and an arcade with golf simulators. Along with the work being done at SandValley, Keiser has just come out with a new book, “The Nature of the Game – Links Golf at Bandon Dunes and Far Beyond,’’ written with Stephen Goodwin. The book provides insight into all of Keiser’s creations, including what’s in the works at Sand Valley and is available on Amazon. It doesn’t appear that Mike Keiser is finished creating new and interesting golf travel destinations, the final sentence of the book may be the most revealing: “The most interesting chapter is always the next one.’’
Trouble Around the Greens? Try PING’s NEW ChipR It’s not a putter with lots of loft, nor is it a funny looking wedge, it’s a bit of both. The ChipR is designed to use a putting stroke to hit shots traveling a minimum distance in the air with lots of roll out. It solves the problem of chunked, bladed, or shanked shots around the green. The ChipR has added weight around the perimeter with an offset shaft. The loft at 38.5 degrees is PING understands the issues average golfers face when attempting to hit delicate chips. Shots with a wedge that require less than a full swing and lots of touch. The company had previously addressed the problem with the original Chipo over 40 years ago. The new ChipR, part putter and part wedge, borrows from that previous experience with the Chipo. This new club, however, is different and easier to hit. By Ed Travis Michigan Golf Journal
similar to a nine iron, but the 35-inch length and 70 degree lie angle, are comparable to a putter To further smooth turf interaction during the stroke, ChipR’s sole has a decided camber to promote a clean impact, even when hitting from long grass. The hosel is notched to reduce both the overall weight, shifting the center of gravity to the center of the clubhead and also to facilitate customization. The grip is longer with less taper than a normal club. John K. Solheim, President and CEO of PING told us, “Golfers who fear chunking or blading their chip shots are really going to benefit from the new PING ChipR. We’ve learned a lot since my grandfather, Karsten Solheim, invented the Chipo, but his insights were spot on as always. Our research indicates 1/3 of all golfers who tested the ChipR saw better results compared to a traditional wedge. We’ve engineered a lot of technology into the ChipR to help golfers avoid the poor chip shot and save strokes around the green. It represents another score-lowering option from our engineers for golfers in search of game improvement and more enjoyment on the golf course.” Fast Facts PING ChipR – Cast 431 stainless steel head – Cavity back, shallow face – Weight adjustment screw in toe – Loft: 38.5°, bounce: 8° – Stock shafts: Ping Z-Z115 steel, Ping Alta CB graphite – Stock grip: 360 Dyla-wedge Lite – MSRP: $180 per club steel, $195 per club graphite
Please Replace Your Divots: For the Health of Golf As a golf writer who gets a chance to play a wide variety of courses around the country, I have come to the conclusion that golf courses are true national treasures, which should be cherished and preserved. To that end, one of By Mike May I make it a habit to replace several times more divots than I make and usually run out of sand by the time I reach the turn. I make sure to reload with enough sand to fill in divots on the back nine, as well. I am the self-proclaimed ‘Divot King.’ To draw attention to this issue of replacing divots, I recently visited two Pete Dye designed golf courses in central Indiana, Maple Creek Golf & Country Club in Indianapolis and Plum Creek Golf Club in Carmel, with the sole purpose of filling as many divots as possible. my goals, when I play golf, is to make sure that I replace every divot I make, as well as, repair ball marks on the green. While in the fairway, I also take the time to replace a few other neglected and unrepaired divots. Michigan Golf Journal
Approximately three hours were spent at each course and they welcomed me with open arms, while secretly wondering why someone would want to spend several hours filling divots. They offered to pay me for my time, but I assured them that I simply wanted to give back to the course and help them maintain a quality golf experience for the next golfer. While Maple Creek and Plum Creek are very wellmaintained, they would be in even better shape if everyone made it a priority to fill their own divots, plus a couple more, for good measure. The tally for total divots repaired at the two courses came to over 1,100, which is a sad commentary on the behavior and playing habits of golfers. Former GCSAA Superintendent of the Year Dick Gray explains how to correctly refill a fairway divot. Mou – insert a black rectangle for the video Fixing divots is not just a problem in Indiana. I see similar patterns at golf courses in other states, as well. I hope the next time you make it out to a golf course, you better understand the importance of filling old divots, so the superintendent and his staff aren’t required to spend an inordinate amount of time doing that rather mundane task. Next time that you play in a competitive match where rolling the ball in the fairways is prohibited, you’ll understand what I mean when your ball stops in a divot. While I may be the ‘Divot King,’ I welcome everyone, scratch golfer to high handicapper, to join my team to help preserve our golf courses and make them better for the next golfer. I’m sure, the late, great Pete Dye, as well as, other golf course architects, would appreciate it.
Find Friendly People & Great Golf in Sky Valley Georgia On a recent visit to SkyValley, in the mountains onNortheasternGeorgia, we found a friendly village of people totally committed to their fellow residents as well as to the visitors that come to this paradise in the sky. Being among such an outwardly accommodating community, I was reminded of mymother’s favorite musical, Brigadoon. Two young men on a hunting trip encountered a Scottish community that was only on earth for a one day every 100 years. It was a magical village where everyone was happy, cared for each other and lived in harmony. The sort of things that only happen movies and fiction. That, however, describes Sky Valley. We have never been treated to such wonderful hospitality and inclusion into a community. “Sky Valley, one of the stops on the Georgia Golf Trail, is like heaven on earth and we in By Fred Altvater Michigan Golf Journal
Georgia are lucky to have such an outstanding destination for golfers in our state and for those visiting from the nearby surrounding states,” said Doug Hollandsworth, founder of the Georgia Golf Trail. Sky Valley sits 3,500 feet above sea level in the Georgia mountains and is surrounded by the Nanthala National Forest. The views of the surrounding mountain tops and hillsides are jaw-dropping. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise with hiking, biking, fishing, boating, camping, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, bird watching and zip lining. In addition to golf, one of the more popular recreational sports for Sky Valley members is Croquet. Back 9 Report chatted with the President of Sky Valley Howard Beckert about the club, the golf course and the many activities for visitors to Sky Valley. Mou – insert black box for video The centerpiece of the Sky Valley community is the country club. The clubhouse, opened in 2013, features a natural stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace, glass window walls, exposed beams, and hardwood floors. The outdoor terrace allows guests to enjoy the jaw-dropping views, weekend, you’ll want to stay for a month.” At 6,900 yards the course is not long by modern-day standards, but with the elevation changes, a few well-placed water hazards and wonderfully designed green complexes it provides a challenge for any skill level of golfer. The practice facilities, including a driving range, with target while dining in a comfortable, casual setting that creates the perfect end to the day in the mountains. Sky Valley has a strong reputation for its locally grown produce and is known as the ‘Farm-to-Table Capital’ of Georgia. For connoisseurs, local vineyards produce delicious wines for tasting. The club has an active social calendar, and the chef is constantly creating exciting culinary adventures for their edification. Being at altitude in the mountains, summertime temperatures are very comfortable. In fact, several residents come north from Florida and other more southern areas to enjoy the cooler climate at Sky Valley. “Simply put, we have terrific mountain golf opportunities in Georgia,” said Hollandsworth. “If you come for a long
greens, plus the putting and chipping greens, are first class. Steve Heher, Head Professional at Sky Valley told us the course provides many memorable moments. “Sky Valley is a fantastic mountain golf course that winds its way through the valley. It features great views from the elevated tees at the 2nd, 8th, 12th, 15th, and 17th holes. Our signature hole, the par-3 15th, has a 60-foot elevation drop from tee to green.” According to Heher the course is always immaculate and features bent grass from tee to green. “Our superintendent Steve soon recognized by the United States Croquet Association as the 2018 New Club of the Year. Unlike Brigadoon, however, Sky Valley can be enjoyed every day of the year and if you should find you would like a little slice of mountain life for yourself, there are lots available to build your own heaven among the clouds. We felt so at home there that we can’t wait until our next visit to this small community of wonderful people and great golf. To find out more visit: https:// www.skyval leycountryclub. com/. Mason has been here since 2007. He does a great job to keep this course in great shape throughout the year. He and his veteran crew know what they are doing.” Sky Valley is a true country club owned and operated by the membership, but it also offers public play with stay & play packages available. Numerous cabins and cottages along the hillsides surrounding the course offer Airbnb and VRBO rental options, plus the nearby Gateway Inn & Suites, plus the Highlands Inn Lodge also offer golf packages. We found the people, the golf, as well as, the surroundings at Sky Valley to be first-class. There is always something to visit, a new trail to explore, or another birdie to hunt. There’s even an active croquet club. The Country Club designed and installed a championship size croquet lawn in 2018 and was Michigan Golf Journal
Reynolds Lake Oconee Has It All There is so much to do at Reynolds Lake Oconee it is difficult to know where to start. With 12,000 acres of lake front property, six outstanding championship golf courses, 11 various dining options, outdoor activities galore, plus a Ritz Carlton on property, one can see that Reynolds Lake Oconee truly has it all. The Great Waters course recently underwent an extensive By Fred Altvater Mou insert black rectangle In addition to Nicklaus, Bob Cupp, Rees Jones, Tom Fazio and Jim Eng have all designed courses for Reynolds Lake Oconee. On our last visit to Reynolds Lake Oconee, we happened to renovation by the original designer, Jack Nicklaus. It hosts several tournaments every year. The Linger Longer Invitational collegiate tournament has hosted some of the top amateur golfers before they became household names on the PGA Tour. Watch this Back 9 Report TV video that talks about the Great Waters Course and golf at Reynolds Lake Oconee.
play with two gentlemen that had moved from Kiawah Island to Reynolds a few years ago. They told me that Kiawah has become too popular and crowded. Tee times are hard to come by, traffic is horrendous and the roads are constantly filled with tourists, as well as, locals. They both said, the atmosphere at Reynolds Lake Oconee is much more relaxed and the local population outgoing. They can always find friends to share a bite or play a round of golf. Several membership options are available that allow members to play all the courses in the complex. Stay & Play packages are also available for travelers wanting to play the courses inside Reynolds Lake Oconee at: https://www. reynoldslakeoconee.com/visit/offers Every one of the 11 restaurants and dining options at Reynolds is a delight. Executive Chef, Zouhair Bellout, uses locally grown ingredients and consistently changes menus to assure diners always have something to look forward to. We recommend lunch at Gaby’s by the Lake; it offers great views of the lake and beach. Gaby’s provides a relaxing atmosphere that adheres to a, “No Shirt, No Shoes, Our Pleasure,” motto. Michigan Golf Journal
The menu features items such as Low Country Fish Tacos and Handcrafted Burger accompanied by old favorites including Salads, Sandwiches, Stone Baked Pizzas and the infamous Lobster Grilled Cheese. We also like the National Tavern located just off the ninth hole of the Bluff nine at The National Golf Course. The bar area is warm and inviting. From soup and salad, appetizers, sandwiches, or some of the best pizza in the area, the National Tavern will make your dining experience a culinary delight. We aren’t the only one who think the National Tavern is a winner. It was honored several times as an outstanding dining venue in Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Awards. With the lake fishing, boating and swimming always in season at Reynolds Lake Oconee. From March to late November the weather is normally warm and suitable for outdoor activities at Reynolds Lake Oconee. We visited the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds, which is spread out over 100 acres of the rolling Georgia countryside. We encourage hunters and shooters to check it out. There they will find a multifaceted selection of shooting challenges with professionals on staff to help even novice outdoorsmen and women. We have only mentioned a few of the enjoyable features of Reynolds Lake Oconee. If you decide to visit and want to stay longer, their real estate division will help you find the right property for you to “Linger Longer” at Reynolds Lake Oconee.
The fastest growing golf shoe brand, SQAIRZ just released their newest high-tech design the Mesh. Combining the breathability of a mesh shoe with the superior performance of SQAIRZ technology, the Mesh line is based on the award-winning men’s SPEED and women’s FREEDOM. Most mesh golf shoes are too flexible causing golfers to lose energy in their swing. SQAIRZ Mesh shoes maintain a stable structure and SQAIRZ Releases New Mesh Design allow golfers to maximize their energy transfer, producing more consistent contact and additional yardage. “We set out to create the next generation of SQAIRZ to accommodate players that prefer a light, more breathable shoe without sacrificing the comfort and performance of our patented technology. This is the first time that stability has been available in a mesh shoe and we are proud to expand our line of performance golf footwear.” - Bob Winskowicz, SQAIRZ CEO Michigan Golf Journal
SQAIRZ is the fastest growing golf shoe brand and the first golf shoe designed to increase distance, balance, stability, and speed. The patented toe design, spike positioning, specially placed comfort padding, Sta-Put laces, and other performance innovations have been proven to improve golfers’ biomechanics, comfort, balance, and stability. These innovations help golfers to consistently achieve greater accuracy as well as increased ground force connection and swing speed for greater distance. The new Mesh shoe is available for both men and women at sqairz.com. Also connect with the SQAIRZ on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Our Contributors This Month Ed Travis Mike May 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. Golfscribe@outlook.com Mike May is a freelance golf travel writer based inWellington, Florida. As you would expect, he is a “Golfaholic” focused on beating ‘Old Man Par’ each time he steps on a golf course. Contact him at mmaymarketing@gmail.com Len Ziehm Len Ziehm spent 41 years as a golf columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. He now free lances golf travel pieces and posts for http://lenziehmongolf.com/. Find Len on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ lenziehmongolf/ Michigan Golf Journal
VIDEOS Even announcers are leaving the PGA Tour broadcasting booths to jump to the rival LIV Golf Tour. David Feherty becomes the latest casualty as he leaves NBC for greener pastures, or the Saudi Arabian desert, if you please. As Tiger and Phil are fading into the sunset, there is a changing of the guard and young guys like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, Cam Smith and Xander Schauffele are becoming the stars of today on the PGA Tour. WMU’s Kim Moore Wins Inaugural U.S. Adaptive Women’s Open WMU Head Golf Coach Kim Moore was born with a clubbed foot and a clubbed left foot and spina bifida, but that did not prevent her from playing collegiate golf for the University of Indianapolis, becoming a college golf coach and winning the first-ever USGA U.S. Adaptive Women’s Open. Feherty Joins Greg Norman on the LIV No Tiger, No Phil, No Problem Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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