December2022 NewGolfRules for2023 CanLIV&PGATour Co-Exist? HapyHolidaysfromMichiganGolfJournal ’23PGAMerchandise ShowToReturnto FulProgram Bigestgolf storiesof 202
Merry Christmas Golfaholics!! FRED ALTVATER PUBLISHER Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Ohio Golf Journal Indiana Golf Journal Back 9 Report We hope that you have been a good little golfer and Santa brings you some great golf stuff. Speaking of golf gifts, if you need some help with a gift for your favorite golfer, we list a few that any hacker will love. This year was one of the most turbulent in golf history. The LIV Golf League was definitely the biggest golf story of the year and has become a true threat to the PGA Tour. It appears 2023 will be just as confusing sorting out the numerous lawsuits. Ed Travis agrees with Rory’s comment that both the LIV and the PGA Tour need to have some actual adults in the room to work to save the game for everyone’s enjoyment. Also, in this issue Len Ziehm takes us to Sand Valley and talks about Tom Doak’s new course, The Lido, that will open there next year. The USGA has approved a few new rules that will go into effect January 1, 2023. If you play tournament golf, it would be advisable to go over the changes to be ready for competition. The PGA Merchandise Show is scheduled for January. After being cancelled in 2021 and holding a limited show in 2022, it will be good to get back to a full representation of golf companies for the 2023 show. It is annually the largest gathering of golf-related businesses in the world, and we can’t wait to see it return to its full glory. As this is the final issue of 2022, we want to thank everyone for their support. Michigan Golf Journal has had one of its best years ever and we are looking forward to providing excellent golf news, information, and travel for our readers in 2023. I’m ready to head south. Hope I see you on the Back 9 of a Florida Golf Course. 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 28 FIND INSIDE 14 17 25 33 Biggest Stories In Golf From 2022 PGA Tour-LIV Controversy Needs An Adult in the Room Golf Offers a Variety of Ways To Enjoy the Game Last Minute Christmas Gifts For Golfers Home Is Where the Heart Is USGA Announces Rules Changes Effective in 2023 06 10 14 17 25 20 Michigan Golf News 22 Our Contributors What a Difference a Year Makes Wisconsin’s Sand Valley Continues to Grow & Impress Concession Cup Held in Spain News & Notes Our Favorite Videos 38 28 33 36 30 39 Michigan Golf Journal
1. LIV Completes First Year Greg Norman and the Saudi Investment Fund have definitely made a huge impact on professional golf. They only held 8 events around the world in 2022, but the LIV media people made sure they kept social media and golf news outlets filled with plenty of content all year long. Biggest Stories In Golf From 2022 Greg Norman appears to be a man on a mission to completely disrupt professional golf and with the help of Saudi Arabia Royal Family’s endless supply of money, he is succeeding mightily. Two questions remain for the LIV. The outstanding Lawsuits will determine if the PGA Tour illegally tried to stop the LIV from getting started and if As we reflect back on 2022, we have never experienced the division and unrest that is currently present in men’s professional golf. With the LIV Golf tour offering top names exorbitant sums to leave the PGA Tour, fewer events and larger purses it has thrown the golf world into a tailspin. The fighting between the LIV and the PGA Tour is definitely the biggest story in golf last year, but there are also a few more that deserve consideration. Michigan Golf Journal
the OWGR will grant LIV players World ranking points. Lawsuits have become as important as birdies and eagles with both tours keeping hundreds of attorneys busy churning out legal briefs and filing multiple suits. Ed Travis examined LIV versus the PGA Tour, and you can read his report beginning on page 10. 2. Dustin Johnson Earned $35 Million on LIV To Top All Golfers Dustin Johnson has been one of the best golfers in the world for 15 years. He has won two major championships and over 20 titles on the PGATour. When the LIV offered him $125 million to jump to the rival tour, he took the money, plus added another $35 million in prize money, topping the LIV money list. With $74 million in career earnings on the PGA Tour, Johnson earned nearly that much in one year on the LIV. 3. Tiger Woods Returns to Competition In February 2021, Tiger Woods was involved in a horrific car crash that nearly required amputation of one of his legs. Through hard work and rehabilitation, he was able to actually return to a golf course for the first time in December 2021 and enter PGA Tour events in 2022. Shuffling around the golf course on a pair of less than perfect legs he made the cut at the Masters but could not make it to the weekend at either the U.S. Open or PGA Championship. He is scheduled to play in three events this month and we look forward to gauging his progress and fitness as we move to 2023. 4. Rory McIlroy Took on a Much Bigger Role Rory McIlroy had a phenomenal year on and off the golf course. In 16 PGA Tour starts he racked up three wins, plus runners-up finishes at both the Masters and the OPEN championship. He earned over $8 million in prize money and pocketed another $18 million for winning the FedEx Cup.
earnings and ascend to the No. 1 spot on the World Golf Rankings for a few weeks. – – The second major of the year saw Justin Thomas add another Wanamaker Trophy to his collection. JT has 10 top 10 finishes last season, earned nearly $7 million in prize money and finished No.5 in the FedEx Cup standings. – – Matt Fitzpatrick has been a world-class golfer for several years. When the U.S. Open returned to the Country Club for the 2022 U.S. Open, Fitzpatrick liked his odds. He had won the 2013 U.S. Amateur on the same golf course and once again found the historic course to his liking. He bested Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris by a single stroke to capture the USGA’s biggest trophy. – – Cam Smith had a monster year on the PGA Tour winning bothTHE Players Championship & THE OPEN at St. Andrews before jumping He ended the year as the No. 1 player on the DP World Tour and on the Official World Golf Ranking. Throughout the year Rory also assumed a larger role as a spokesman and leader of the PGA Tour players speaking out against the rival LIV Golf League. He has lifted the PGA Tour on his shoulders and worked tirelessly to promote the American Tour. He has become the acknowledged leader of the PGA Tour players. Look for him to continue to expand that role in 2023. 5. Major Championships The LIV Golf League also had an effect on the majors, but the players were not banned from participating, if they had previously qualified for the tournament. – – Scottie Scheffler started off the year with his win at the Masters. He went on to win four times last year, lead the PGA Tour in Michigan Golf Journal
to LIV Golf Tour for a very big payday. Smith’s consistency in finding fairways and relying on his ever-trusty putter translated to making him one of the best players in the world last year. 6. Lydia Ko Returned To The Top Of Women’s Golf As a teenager, Lydia Ko shocked the golf world winning multiple professional titles while still an amateur. When she turned professional the winning did not stop. Changing golf coaches and styles she struggled over the past couple of years, but golf pundits could see near the end of 2021 that Lydia was returning to her old consistent fairways and greens style of play. In 2022 and now 25 years old, she appears to be ready to once again dominate women’s golf. She won the $2 million first place check at the CME Group Championship. Her average score of 68.988 earned her the Vare Trophy for the second consecutive year. Ko also won LPGA Player of the Year honors and is just two points shy of winning induction into the LPGA Hall of Fame. She was the model of consistency all year, amassing three wins, plus 11 more top 10 finishes. Lydia Ko is once again a must-watch player on the LPGA Tour. 7. Bernhard Langer Closes In on Hale Irwin’s Record Hale Irwin holds the record for most Champions Tour wins with 45 victories. At the age of 64, Bernhard Langer won two Champions Tour events in 2022 to finish the year with 44 titles, one win shy of Irwin’s record 45 wins. The seemingly ageless Langer has been one of the top players on the Champions Tour for 14 years. Smart money says he catches and surpasses Irwin before the 2023 season is over.
It’s always refreshing when someone you respect agrees with you, or is it the other way around? When the number one ranked golfer says exactly what you are thinking, it’s nice to know you aren’t completely alone. The current No. 1 golfer in the world, Rory McIlroy has taken a leadership role in the world of professional golf with a sensible suggestion to solve the unsustainable and stressful situation that exists between the PGA Tour and LIV. “There’s a few things that I would like to see on the LIV side that needs to happen,” McIlroy said. “I think Greg [Norman] needs to go. I think he needs to just exit stage left. He’s made his mark, but I think now is the right time to sort of say, ‘Look, you’ve got this thing off the ground, but PGA Tour-LIV Controversy Needs An Adult in the Room no one is going to talk unless there’s an adult in the room that can actually try to mend fences.’” For those who may have been spending the past few months perfecting their pickleball serve, or training 16 hours a day for a WWE comeback, LIV Golf is a competitor to the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, the former European Tour. It is a disruptor to the otherwise usually staid week to week tournaments run by the established tours. Again, in case you have not been following the controversy, LIV Golf gets its money from the Public Investment Fund which is the sovereign wealth fund of the Saudi Arabian royal family with Hall of Fame member Greg Norman as their front man. By Ed Travis Michigan Golf Journal
Three things, about LIV Golf, stick in the craw of many observers. First, is the over-the-top signing bonuses paid by LIV to lure PGA Tour stars. Fan-favorite Phil Mickelson reportedly received $200 million. The list includes Dustin Johnson ($125 million), Bryson DeChambeau ($125 million) and Sergio Garcia, who also banked $125 million, while British Open Champion Cameron Smith had to settle for $100 million. Not unsurprisingly those taking the LIV money were put on suspension by the PGA Tour losing their rights to compete, plus their status in the major championships is yet to be determined. Secondly, are the LIV tournaments real competition? Certainly, no one begrudges players winning huge sums because of their playing skill, but it would appear the line is drawn with payments based on reputation alone. Should LIV tournaments really be considered professional competition. The LIV events are closer to a series of exhibitions with limited 48-player fields and 54-hole no-cut tournaments. Plus, there is a team competition format inside each event that can assure some players big paydays even if they don’t play well. Pat Perez did not come close to a top ten finish on the LIV in 2022, but still finished in the top ten in total money earned because he benefitted from his teammate’s, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed and Talor Gooch, strong finishes, which paid Perez over $3 million in team payouts, giving him a total of $4 million for the season. Last season’s leading money earner on the PGA Tour, Scottie Scheffler, played in 25 events, won $14 million in total prize money, plus another $5.75 million from the FedEx Cup bonus pool, garnering just shy of $20 million. Rory McIlroy won $8.6 million in 16 events, but added the
FedEx Cup title, which paid him another $18 million for a total of $26.6 million. In contrast, the LIV’s top performer Dustin Johnson took home $35.6 million in just eight events. $9 million more than McIlroy and $15 million more than Scheffler in fewer starts. Plus, DJ got his big signing bonus, as well. Luring stars away from the PGA Tour simply lessens the product without a commensurate gain for fans not to mention the local charities, who receive substantial donations from every tournament. LIV has no broadcast contract leaving those interested to watch on the LIV social media channel and onsite event attendance has been minuscule. Third, the LIV doesn’t address the source of their money, namely the Saudi Arabian regime. Even considering Saudi’s sizable percentage of the proven world oil reserves and all the critical political factors, the Kingdom’s dismal record of human rights abuses is an overwhelming point of contention. Norman has become the focal point and seems to relish the spotlight. From the initial announcement of the LIV series, it was clear the former world number one was on a mission to “get” the PGA Tour. This likely can be traced back to the early 1990’s when Norman’s proposed world tour was vetoed by the PGA Tour. Norman doesn’t seem to be working towards any solution, simply making matters worse with antagonistic comments via social media and interviews. Don’t forget that according to Norman’s early statements, LIV’s goal was to grow the game by creating additional playing opportunities for a select number of players. This has not been accomplished since the defectors have lost their membership on their former tours. In fact, an acrimonious competitor to the established circuits has been created and professional golf seemingly thrown into a state of confusion. What has become crystal clear is that unless an amenable solution can be found, golf fans and the many charities supported by the PGA Tour are going to be the losers. McIlroy’s call for Norman to resign from LIV would be a good first step and bringing “an adult in the room” to open a dialogue between both sides is the only reasonable path. Michigan Golf Journal
Since the darkest days of COVID’s shelter-in-place, golf has seen a major uptick in the number of people visiting golf courses and finding the game to be a wonderful family-oriented pastime. With the advent of golf simulators, updated putting courses, new par-3 layouts, plus TopGolf there has never been more opportunities for people to get involved in the game. Indoor Golf Simulators Golf season does not end in the northern portion of the country. Nearly every town in the cold weather climates now have at least one golf simulator. In most cities, these indoor golf facilities offer several simulators in one location with food and beverage service available. Leagues, tournaments, closet to the pin and other competitions are held every week for serious golfers. Companies such as, Ace Indoor Golf constructs these public golf simulators but will also design a simulator to fit your personal needs at home. With digital readouts providing spin rate, launch angle, ball speed and distance for every shot, golf simulators are also the perfect venue to improve your game over the winter months. Golf Offers a Variety of Ways To Enjoy the Game By Fred Altvater Michigan Golf Journal
Par-3 Courses The renovation and new construction of par 3 courses at resorts is at an all-time high. High-end golf resorts like, Bandon Dunes, Sand Valley, Forest Dunes have added new par-3 courses. BOYNE Resort in Northern Michigan is renovating an older short course to make it more appeasing to their guests that need an emergency nine to settle those daily wagers. BOYNE’s Highland Resort will open their newly renovated par-3 to add yet one more option for their guests. Par-3 courses are the perfect place for beginners and junior golfers to learn the game. Many metropolitan golf courses have a par-3 configuration and families are finding that time spent on a shorter par-3 golf course makes for an enjoyable family outing. Nine-Hole Courses It is not a requirement to play 18 holes every time to enjoy time on a golf course. If a golfer should choose to walk, nine holes provides between 1.5 and 2 miles of exercise, just right to get those 10,000 steps into your daily fitness routine.
Putting Courses I’m sure nearly everyone has visited a putt-putt golf course in their lifetime. Tiger Woods and his new PopStroke locations have raised the bar for the traditional putt-putt. Covered with synthetic turf and contoured to provide tricky putting surfaces, the four PopStroke locations in Florida are just right for a family night out, date night, or a few wagers with friends. In addition, many resorts have added extensive putting courses for their guest to hone their short games. Many also have added lights allowing golf groups to hit the putting green after their round, or even after dinner to get in a few more whacks before bedtime. Private & Public Golf Courses Ardent Golfers still demand to play 18 holes and with tee sheets nearly full every day, general managers and owners are putting more money back into their courses. It seems nearly every course has a renovation plan in place. Every community has several public golf courses which offer affordable greens fees for daily play. These can be a family owned, or a local municipal track. Many of today’s professional golfers began their golfing odysseys on a local nine-hole golf course dreaming of holing a putt to win the U.S. Open. For the golfer that wants the benefits and can afford the higher cost, a private golf club could be the answer. A private club typically has much less demand for tee times, which means more availability and faster rounds. Private courses also offer social networking possibilities that can help widen your contacts and help grow your business. As you can see there is a greater variety of options to become involved with golf than ever before. Make it a priority to visit some type of golf facility in your area in 2023. Topgolf Serving more than 23 million guests annually at 70 locations, TopGolf has helped bring a new aspect to the game of golf. Many people, who would never set foot on a green-grass golf course, have enjoyed an evening of great food, drink and fun, while in a group setting at a TopGolf. If you have not yet tried an outing to a TopGolf facility gather up your besties and find a TopGolf location near you for an evening of laughter and conviviality. Michigan Golf Journal
OnCore Golf Balls OnCore Golf Balls have not been on the market for that long, but they are rapidly becoming the go-to ball for golfers around the world. They were born from years of development and the proprietary perimeter-weighting technology delivers performance advantages for every skilllevel. They have found the magic formula to increase Moment of Inertia with lower spin rates, tighter dispersion and better aerodynamic lift that yields a more stable ball flight. All this means that OnCore has created a better golf ball for the average golfer. Area 419 Putters Most golfers want to focus on finding that perfect driver and will spend well over $500 for a weapon of mass destruction, which is used approximately 14 times during an 18-hole round. Putting, however, is the area where every golfer can take shots off their handicap. The putter is Last Minute Christmas Gifts For Golfers If you haven’t completed your Christmas shopping and are struggling to find just the right gift for your favorite golfer, check out this list of great golf products that every golfer will love and will make you the perfect Santa.
used on every hole and once a golfer finally gets to the green reducing the number of putts during a round exponentially reduces the overall score. Not every golfer can hit it 300 yards, but every golfer can improve their putting statistics. Area 419 Golf uses their knowledge of design, metal characteristics and balance to create putters with thousands of variations that will conform to each golfer’s unique physical needs. Area 419 Golf putters are ‘American Made’ and their in-house precision manufacturing process allows them to design, produce, assemble and pack the highest quality parts with unmatched agility. SQAIRZ The rapid success of SQAIRZ Golf Shoes is based on the latest technology and performance where it counts, on the golf course. Balance and stability are necessary for an accurate swing. SQAIRZ’s wider sole provides a solid base to build your swing from the ground up. Longer and straighter shots result in lower scores while the FUN factor increases dramatically. If you want to see your favorite golfer play better, put a pair of SQAIRZ Golf Shoes under the tree. Putting Arc Are you tired of listening to your favorite golfer complain about three-putt greens? The Putting Arc has been helping golfers develop a confident and repeatable putting stroke for years. They understand the physics behind the stroke and their training aid will help you become more consistent on the greens. Over the years they have helped hundreds of professional golfer win championships and they can help any golfer putt better and lower their scores. In fact, Grant Waite, Charley Hull and Keegan Bradley all recently won professional titles after honing their putting stroke by using The Putting Arc. GearUp Sportswear Every golfer wants to look and feel their best both on the course and off. Gear Up Sportswear has a variety of great styles to fit every size for both men and women. These comfortable shirts are guaranteed to never shrink, fade or wrinkle, plus their unique design keep golfers cool, calm and collected even when staring down a five-foot putt. Michigan Golf Journal
Gear Up Sportswear shirts are available in a variety of sizes and their bold patterns keep you looking sharp while you are struggling to make a double-bogey. Golf Lessons A great gift for any current golfer, or someone who may want to learn the game is a series of lessons from a certified teaching professional. Don’t forget your kids. Golf lessons for children can open a window that will give them a lifetime of enjoyment, plus help them gain confidence, while getting away from the electronic devices and getting much needed outdoor exercise. Google search PGA, or USGTF Teaching Professionals in your area and a host of qualified instructors will instantly pop up to help your golfer improve their game and drastically increase their enjoyment level. PLAYthe M I DWE S T LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN Get started at frenchlick.com/golf or call (888) 936-9360. Tee up a 2023 road trip and experience the award-winning Pete Dye and Donald Ross courses. Play a little more at the casino, and unwind at two historic hotels. With free customized planning for groups of 8+, play time has never been such a breeze. 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! Find us here
The USGA and The R&A unveiled a regular update to the Rules of Golf as they continue to make the Rules easier to understand and apply. The new Rules will go into effect on January 1, 2023. The 2023 edition continues the modernization process, with an emphasis on both inclusion and sustainability. For the first time, the modified Rules for players with disabilities have been fully incorporated into the playing rules without the need to adopt a local rule. The governing bodies, supported by longstanding partner Rolex, will also promote digital and mobile app access to the Rules while significantly reducing the production and distribution of more than 4 million printed books. USGA Announces Rules Changes Effective in 2023 From USGA.org Several penalties have been relaxed and language has been clarified to help golfers at all levels of play. Key changes include: Modifications for Players with Disabilities: The modifications to the Rules for players with disabilities have been made part of the Rules and are in effect for all players who are classified in the categories covered in Rule 25. Handicap Usage in Stroke Play: With the continued growth of score-posting technology following the adoption of the World Handicap System™, players are no Michigan Golf Journal
longer penalized for failing to put their handicap on their scorecard in stroke play. The committee will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of each player’s handicap. Club Damaged During Round: The Rule has been amended to allow a player to replace a club that is damaged during a round, provided the player did not damage it through abuse. Ball Moved by Natural Forces: A new exception provides that a ball at rest must be replaced if it moves to another area of the course or comes to rest out of bounds after being dropped, placed or replaced. Back-on-the-Line Relief Procedure: The back-on-the-line relief procedure, often used for penalty area and unplayable ball relief, has been simplified so that the player now drops their ball on the line, and the ball must come to rest within one clublength of where it is dropped. Golfers will be able to learn more about the major changes and review the official 2023 Rules of Golf by visiting www.usga.org/2023Rules and RandA.org. Full updates to the official Rules of Golf digital applications will be available starting on January 1. Grant Moir, Director of Rules at The R&A, said, “We are continuing to improve and adapt the Rules of Golf to ensure they are in line with the way the modern game is played. That means making the Rules easier to understand, allowing access for all golfers and making the sport more inclusive and welcoming for golfers with disabilities. We are also working to ensure golf has a sustainable longterm future and making more resources available digitally is key to achieving that goal.”
NFL QB Kirk Cousins Buys Michigan Golf Course The Holland Sentinel reported that former MSU and current Minnesota Viking Quarterback, Kirk Cousins and his wife Golf News Michigan purchased Clearbrook Golf Course in Saugatuck from previous owners, Jim and Candy Jeltema. Cousins grew up in Holland wanted to keep the golf course in the community. “West Michigan is a special community, and we have enjoyed living in Saugatuck/Douglas since we built our home here in 2018,” Kirk and Julie wrote in a letter to local residents. “As Jim reflected on his future, he wanted to keep the golf course in the community. As we discussed the history of the golf club with Jim, we agreed it is a community treasure and should remain a golf course for the next generation.” “Our family would prefer it not become a housing development or summer rental community. We want to invest in this great community, and we see this purchase as an Michigan Golf Journal
Tom Doak Interviewed By Golf Course Architecture Magazine Superstar golf course designer Tom Doak had an interview with Adam Lawrence for Golf Course Architecture Magazine, and admitted he is trying to change his process for creating new courses. The travel and long stretches away from home has become a burden and he is trying to decrease his time away from family. He feels his biggest strength is in creating the correct routing for the land on which the course will be situated. He loves working in the dirt and running a dozer, but his time is too valuable to be spent on the course. He has also stepped away from much of his consulting work for individual courses, but when pressed he admitted, “I’m still signed up to do whatever we’re going to do at Crooked Stick. I spent time there with Mr. Dye, I know a couple of the members well and they really want me to. I never say never, but it’s really unlikely I would take on more.” Crooked Stick in Carmel Indiana has been the site of several major championships and PGA Tour events. Doak’s continued involvement in the course should be a very good sign for Indiana golfers. Doak resides in Traverse City and has been involved in several designs in Michigan. He was responsible for ‘The Loop,’ reversible course at Forest Dunes, in Roscommon. To read the full interview visit: https://www. golfcoursearchitecture.net/content/a-newapproach-an-interview-with-tom-doak opportunity to do just that, maintaining the life of a golf course that has been in place since 1926.” The Jeltema’s will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, plus the sale did not include the Grill Room restaurant. The course first opened in 1926 and can be stretched to 6556 yards. The 131 slope suggests a stern test for every level of golfer with an assortment of intriguing holes. In his four years at MSU, Cousins played in 45 games and threw for 66 touchdowns. In 2011, with Cousins at the healm, MSU was 7-3, played in the first-ever BIG Ten Championship game and beat Georgia in the Outback Bowl. Selected in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft, Cousins is in his 11th NFL season. He was with the Washington Commanders for six years before signing a free agent deal with Minnesota in 2018. Various water hazards await to swallow errant golf balls and the ever-present meandering “clear brook” creates additional challenges. Clearbrook also includes a driving range, two putting greens, a chipping green, a practice bunker and a renowned restaurant and bar. Some changes and upgrades to the course are in the planning stages, but no major changes are anticipated.
John Daly & Shooter McGavin Coming to Pohlcat Every entry will receive: • 18 holes with cart • Breakfast • Play a hole with John Daly • If Daly holes out, the team will split the $1,000 hole in one purse • Gift basket • Fore 20 golf towel • 517Golf Fore 20 custom event golf glove • 517Golf Fore 20 event t shirt • 517Golf Fore 20 custom event polo • Custom golf tees • Event Bag Tag With both John Daly and Shooter McGavin in the same event at Pohlcat, it should be a great day of golf and festivities. Get your foursome together and enter now at: bit.ly/3AR7AFg On Tuesday, August 29, 2023, PGA Tour legend, John Daly and actor Christopher McDonald, who played Shooter McGavin in the movie, ‘Happy Gilmore’ will be on hand at Pohlcat Golf Club in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, for a stop on the Fore 20 Golf Tour. Michigan Golf Journal
The Dormie Network understands and appreciates the adage, “home is where the heart is.” Your home will always be the place for which you feel the deepest affection, no matter where you happen to be. Which is why Dormie Network members, and their guests enjoy a home — and a home club — wherever they want to be. Dormie Network continues to expand its offerings with ongoing enhancements and additions at its collection of geographically diverse golf clubs. All six Dormie Network clubs create customized experiences that are ideal for entertaining family, friends, or clients. Take for instance, Hidden Creek, near Atlantic City. The clubhouse is classically styled, with a nod to the northeast in its shake siding and stone Home Is Where the Heart Is pillars on the exterior, and dark wood paneling and unique chandeliers throughout the interior. A round of golf on the Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design, widely considered one of New Jersey’s finest, is followed by a dining experience that includes fresh seafood from the Jersey Shore. Hidden Creek now includes mansion-style housing in a pair of differing styles. The new Houses at Hidden Creek can accommodate up to 16 people. The Houses each have eight bedrooms on the lower level and four suites on the upper level, with a living room, kitchen, bar, and deck on each floor. The eight-bedroom Lodge features two great rooms, each with an oversized, fully stocked
galley bar, dining and conference table, living room area appointed with leathers and premium textiles, fireplace, and flat screen television. Briggs Ranch in the Texas Hill Country outside of San Antonio recently completed construction of their new classic Southwestern accentedstyled casitas. There are 15 four-bedroom casitas with master suites, a fireplace and lounge, a fully stocked bar, and a walk-out patio with a firepit. Briggs Ranch is truly the perfect spot for teambuilding, family time, or a private retreat. Designed by Tom Fazio, Briggs Ranch just received a complete revamp of their greens. Dormie Network returned the putting surfaces to their former glory and original size. The new TifEagle Bermuda greens provide a sustainable, high-quality putting surfaces year-round. Briggs Ranch’s distinctively Texan clubhouse, replete with Spanish-style tiling and terra-cotta roof, serves up a variety of dining and meeting spaces to suit parties of all sizes.Tex-Mex influence weaves throughout Briggs Ranch’s menu with spice at the forefront. In addition, the new “Truck Stop” at Briggs Ranch is an all-new mobile bar experience made from an old truck, with beer on tap and plenty of fixings for cocktails. Dormie Network’sVictoria National in Newburgh, Indiana offers a variety of housing options. The course annually hosts the Korn Ferry Tour Championship. “The Vic” was carved from an abandoned coal mine and famously culminates in The Gauntlet: four of the most difficult holes found anywhere in golf. The cottages at Victoria National set the standard, including premium-appointed master king suites, a common great room, a snack bar or a kitchen, a dining area, and screened-in patios. Lodging at Victoria National include a total of 68 beds across 15 cottages and are Michigan Golf Journal
available in three options: Dormie, Executive, and VP. Arbor Links in Nebraska City, Nebraska was the first Dormie Network club. The 18th green features a drive-through silo along the South Table Creek and historic Arbor Day Farm is just a short hike away. The Arnold Palmer masterpiece at ArborLinks is regarded as one of Nebraska’s best layouts. And the clubhouse, true to its surroundings, procures modern farmhouse styling features throughout. Steakhouse-inspired, ArborLinks’ menu celebrates the best of Great Plains cuisine. Next spring, members can enjoy the allnew eight-bedroom and 12-bedroom houses at Arbor Links. ArborLinks also offers premium two-plex cottages featuring two bedrooms and one bathroom, as well as four-plex Dormie and Executive with four bedroom/bathroom suites and a common space. The cottages have a rustic aesthetic and offer space for small meetings, private dinners, and casual socializing. Not to be outdone, the best Southern comforts are found at a pair of unforgettable settings: Ballyhack in Roanoke, Virginia, and Dormie Club near Pinehurst, North Carolina, where PGA Tour standout Lanto Griffin, a Dormie Network ambassador, recently enjoyed his wedding celebration. The perks for Dormie Network members continue to impress. An all-new, pure golf destination club in the Nebraska Sandhills called GrayBull is currently being constructed from the ground up by master architect David McLay Kidd, with a projected open date of fall 2024. For more information about the Dormie Network and their locations visit: https://www. dormienetwork.com/
What a difference a year makes. Registration of golf professionals and industry members for the 70th PGA Show Jan. 24-27, 2023, has begun and a preliminary listing of exhibitors has been released. Indications are that the Show’s woes of the past two years may well be behind them. This time last year the prospect of a shrunken version of the industry’s leading show was being forecast due to the recovery from the worldwide pandemic. The virtual show in 2021 had met significant business event for the global golf community each and every year. It is a valued opportunity to experience and source the latest innovations, connect with peers and industry leadership, and grow your career and business. We are better from coming together at the PGA Show, and the sport and business of golf is in good hands from the cross-community collaboration.” The number of exhibitors for the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show is expected to exceed 800 with a significant number of the golf industry’s largest companies contracting for booth space. In addition to the two largest equipment makers, Callaway and Titleist, Bridgestone, Cleveland, Cobra, Mizuno, Ping, Srixon What a Difference a Year Makes By Ed Travis with little success and prospects for the 2022 Show were thought to be limited. The attendance last year was 40% less than that of pre-pandemic 2020 show, plus exhibitors fell from over 1,000 to less than 600 with most major equipment and apparel companies absent. That all seems to be changing for the 2023 Show which once again is being held in the Orlando Orange County Convention Center. In a release from the PGA of America President Jim Richerson was quoted, “The PGA Show is our largest annual gathering of PGA Professionals and the most Michigan Golf Journal
and XXIO have reserved space. Committed tech companies include, aboutGolf, Bushnell, Garmin, Foresight, FlightScope, Trackman and TopTracer. Apparel companies, Ahead, Antigua, Ashworth, FootJoy, Lacoste, Peter Millar and Puma Golf have reserved booth space. The PGA Show formerly was a primary marketing tool to introduce new products, affirm relationships with old customers and solicit new one. Computerbased ordering combined with inventory and production issues have made the Show less a vehicle for order taking and more an image and visibility opportunity that new companies can use to their advantage. Still to be heard from are several well-known equipment makers have found that alternative ways they were forced to use during the past two years to stay current are sufficient and an expensive company trip to the Sunshine State is not required. such as Tour Edge Golf, Wilson Golf and TaylorMade Golf, though TaylorMade has not exhibited for several years. The industry is booming and according to the National Golf Foundation counting on-course and off-course participants total over 40 million. Golf rounds are up, and equipment sales have continued to set records. It is a good assumption that more companies will sign up to display their latest and greatest, but the number could still fall short of the prepandemic count. Companies, industry insiders and professionals may also
TopGolf News From Steve Pike Topgolf Callaway Brands launched a new TopGolf marketing campaign and is adding new locations. Chip Brewer President and CEO of Topgolf Callaway Brands Corporation said, “You’ll begin to see increased advertisements in select markets, with a nationwide roll out early next year.” Topgolf Callaway Brands opened two new Topgolf venues in the 2022’s third quarter and will open six more before the end of 2022. That is the most in any quarter since Callaway acquired Topgolf in March 2021. “By the end of the year, we will have 81 owned venues worldwide,” he added. News & Notes Michigan Golf Journal
New Five Iron Indoor Facility in Detroit Features Bold New Design Recently, Ace indoor Golf completed a multibay simulator installation at the new Five Iron Golf location in Shelby Township, Michigan. The 6,000 square-foot space features six TrackMan golf simulators, a full bar, putting green and a graffiti wall painted by local artist Desiree Kelly. “We are committed to helping make the simulator bays at every Five Iron Golf location engaging for customers and durable, safe and optimally designed for years to come. The spectacular new Shelby Township location is the newest example of our fruitful collaboration with Five Iron,” says Ace Indoor Golf President Trevor Faust. “We are very pleased to lend our expertise in simulator bay design and installation to Five Iron Golf. Five Iron guests get to experience one of the most teched-out golf and entertainment complexes they have ever seen.” The Five Iron Golf space is designed with guests in mind to enjoy the good vibes of golf and can be optimized to be the perfect entertainment space. It’s alsoa golf oasis for all new and skilled players. The Tour-level technology gives golfers real-time feedback and analytics, such as ball speed, attack angle, club path, face angle and more, with nearly 100 world-renowned courses available to play virtually, as well as a dynamic range for golfers to practice on. Certified golf instructors offer private and group lessons for beginner and advanced players, and each lesson they give features advanced metrics and video analysis on TrackMan simulators. “Ace Indoor Golf has been a great partner to bounce ideas off of, when it comes to simulator design and material selection,” says Jason Sproat, general manager of the new Shelby Township location of Five Iron Golf. “They are well versed in what can and cannot work, hold up well, etc. We value their insight. Our simulators are very busy – and open for 16+ hours each day, 7 days a week, almost the entire year. They take a huge beating. Thus, durability and safety, because we have so many new golfers, are incredibly important to us. Ace helped us select materials for the screen, screen framing, and ceiling that can withstand our usage and keep guests safe.”
GOLFFOREVER Partners with Folds of Honor GOLFFOREVER announced a new partnership with the Folds of Honor foundation. GOLFForever is committed to improving the fitness of every golfer and Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen, or become disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. “GOLFFOREVER is humbled and excited to champion the vital work of Folds of Honor and Lt Col Dan Rooney,” said GOLFFOREVER managing director Jon Levy. “Supporting our military, and now first responders, is a core value of our business and has been personally for (Founder and CEO) Dr. Jeremy James in his practice for years. We’re ready to do our part to significantly impact this organization and can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get started.” The GOLFFOREVER web site now features an exclusive Folds of Honor GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer package priced at $219.99, with 20 percent of every sale going directly to Folds of Honor. Plus, customers who purchase the package will also receive a special Folds of Honor T-Shirt. Michigan Golf Journal
By Len Ziehm 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. Wisconsin’s Sand Valley Continues to Grow & Impress 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. Back 9 Report talked with Chris and Mike Keiser on opening day of the Sandbox. See the full interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNonoyTyIi4
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. 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 at Sand Valley is being touted as the real thing. To learn more about the new Lido Course at Sand Valley watch this video with Chris and Mike Keiser. Mou – insert black box for video Michigan Golf Journal
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 Sand Valley, 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.’’
Concession Cup Held in Spain Last month the Concession Cup, an international amateur team event, was held at Real Golf Valderrama in Southern Spain. The Concession Cup was created to celebrate the game through international competition while giving back to worthy causes. The event is a biennial team competition played between teams comprised of leading male MidAmateurs, Senior Amateurs and Super Senior Amateurs from the United States and Europe. Each team includes, Six MidAmateurs, age 25 to 54, Six By Fred Altvater however things became much tighter as the day progressed. TeamUSA turned around several matches on the back nine and took command in a couple of close matches as well. Mike McCoy, recently named Walker Cup Captain, entered the final hole even after a bogey at 17th, then made a 15-foot birdie putt to secure the win in his match against Ruppert Kellock. By late afternoon the top of the leaderboard was dominated in red, and the USA rebound was complete. Real Club Valderrama again proved to be a wonderful site Senior Amateurs, age 55 and older and Two Super Senior Amateurs, over the age of 65. Over three-days the teams compete in foursome, fourball and singles matches. The Campbell/Bonallack Trophy is awarded to the winning team and is named for two great amateur golfers, Bill Campbell and Sir Michael Bonallack. After the first two days and 12 team matches, Team USA trailed the International Team by five shots. However, the Americans completely dominated the 12 singles matches collecting 9.5 points to erase the fiveshot disadvantage and win the Campbell/Bonallack Trophy. Facing the large deficit for the final singles matches, American Captain Danny Yates and his assistants Alan Fadel, Bryan Norton, and Robert Gerwin, decided to load the top of the day’s play with those players who were at the top of their games, hopefully to cut into the lead early. This strategy proved to work very well. Quickly the leaderboard favored the USA, Michigan Golf Journal
for this prestigious amateur event and provided exceptional playing conditions. The final score Team USA 13, Europe 11 assured the Concession Cup would return back to America. To see the full results visit: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/8995975430313878733 Doug Hanzel Evan Beck Rusty Strawn Tug Maude Mike McCoy Joe Deraney Bob Royak Gregoire Schoeb Matthew Sughrue Brad Nurski Trevor Foster Matthew Mattare Stephen Jensen Michael McClean Martin Birkolz Caolan Rafferty Rupert Kellock Hugh Foley Jody Fanagan Scott Turner Mattias Pernheden Leon Breimer Robert Funk Moises Cobo 2&1 3&2 2&1 1 up 1 up Even 3&2 6&5 5&4 1 up 2&1 1 up defeated defeated defeated defeated defeated halved defeated defeated defeated defeated defeated defeated
VIDEOS Brothers, Chris and Mike Keiser talk about the new Lido Course designed by Tom Doak that will open at Sand Valley next year. Tiger and Rory will partner for the Match versus good buddies, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. Plus Tiger will play in the Hero World Challenge and PNC Parent/Child with his son Charlie. The Reunion Resort in Orlando, Florida is Perfect for Golf & Family Fun! If you are looking for a great golf resort in central Florida the Reunion Resort sits near the Disney Parks, with three Signature Courses by Nicklaus, Palmer and Watson. The Lido Course To Open at Sand Valley in 2023 Tiger To Play in 3 Events in December Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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