ohio golfjournal August202 OhioGolfNews USGAHolds InauguralU.S. AdaptiveOpen Championship
A Historic Event Happened at Pinehurst Last Month A landmark tournament took place last month, but little notice was made of it. The USGA held the first-ever U.S. Adaptive Open at Pinehurst. A woman who is the Head Coach of the Western Michigan University Golf Team won the event and will forever have her name on the trophy. The men’s winner, Korean Simon Seungmin Lee is autistic, but plays the game at a high level. His is a remarkable story, as 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. Lee’s symptoms were first diagnosed early in his childhood, and he has attributed golf as a way for him to communicate with other people. We have followed the work of the U.S. Adaptive Golf Association for several years and applaud them and the USGA for working together to get this tournament started. It will become an annual national championship conducted by the USGA, just like the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Open. This is what we feel the USGA is all about, bringing a diverse group to the game and providing a venue for them to compete at the highest level. Golf travel continues to be a booming business post-COVID. This month, in addition to our Pinehurst feature, we have articles talking about Michigan’s BOYNE Resort, Sand Valley in Wisconsin and a very welcoming Sky Valley in northeastern Georgia. We urge you to visit all these wonderful destinations. Finally, we visited a new putter manufacturer right here in Ohio. Area 419 is producing high-quality putters that we know will improve your short game. That’s all for now. Thanks for checking out the August issue and I hope I see you on the Back 9. FRED ALTVATER PUBLISHER Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Michigan Golf Journal Indiana Golf Journal Back 9 Report Ohio Golf Journal
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Ohio Golf Journal is Published By Back 9 Media Group Publisher: Fred Altvater, USGTF Teaching Professional Advertise with Ohio 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 Western Michigan’s Kim Moore Wins Inaugural U.S. Adaptive Women’s Open Wisconsin’s Sand Valley Continues to Grow & Impress 06 10 22 Find Friendly People & Great Golf in Sky Valley Georgia Sowards & Taylor Inducted Into Ohio Golf Hall of Fame Boyne Golf: Where Golfers Gather For Great Golf & More Ohio Golf News Area 419 Putters Can Help Reduce Your Scores Please Replace Your Divots: For the Health of Golf 26 28 30 13 16 19 Our Contributors Reynolds Lake Oconee Has It All SQAIRZ Releases New Mesh Design 38 33 36 Our Favorite Videos 39 Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio 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. Ohio 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
In August the Ohio Golf Hall of Fame inducted two new members, Bob Sowards and Gary Taylor. The Ohio Golf Hall of Fame dates back to 1992 and includes golfers who have made an impact on the game, plus achieved the highest levels of competition, while devoting their lives to the game of golf. A few of the names that have been inducted into the Ohio Golf Hall Of Fame are, Jack Nicklaus, Peggy Kirk Bell, Pete Dye, Jack Grout, TomWeiskopf, Renee Powell, John Cook, Ben Curtis, Meg Mallon and Rosie Jones Bob Sowards It seems like Bob Sowards is in the news every month for winning yet another event. He has achieved success in both state and national events. When competitors see Bob’s name in the field, they know they are playing for second place. HisthreeOhioOpenChampionships, along with three Ohio Senior Open Championships are strong enough credentials to earn a spot in the Ohio Golf Hall of Fame. In addition, Sowards competed on the Korn FerryTour and competed on the 2008 PGATour. In his tour career, he played in 41 PGA Tour events, including 11 PGA Championships. Bob was named the PGA National Club Professional Player four times and won the PGA National Club Professional Championship in 2004. Sowards & Taylor Inducted Into Ohio Golf Hall of Fame By Fred Altvater
He continued to win even after he turned 50 and joined the senior ranks. He has been named the PGA National Senior Club Professional Player of the Year three times and won the National Senior Club Professional Championship in 2018. In 2021 Bob led the Senior PGA at Southern Hills for 31 holes, eventually finishing in a tie for fifth place. In an interesting turn of events, Sowards nearly withdrew from that 2021 Senior PGA. He wanted to see his daughter’s high school graduation the same weekend, but his wife reminded him, “If you play well, you could pay for a year or two of college.” That was the deciding factor, his high finish is being used for her college expenses. Gary Taylor Gary Taylor is a pros pro. He spent 27 years as the Head Professional at Columbus Country Club, served in Viet Nam and has been married to his wife, Linda for 46 years. He began his club professional career as an assistant first for Don Shock at Columbus Country Club and later at Marietta Country Club under Bernie Wentis. His first Head Professional job came at Miami Shores Golf Club in 1979, before moving to Marysville Country Club and then to Oakhurst Country Club. Over the years, Shock stayed in close contact with Gary and followed his career. When Shock decided to retire in 1986, he recommendedTaylor be hired as his replacement. Gary spent the rest of his career at Columbus Country Club, until he retired in 2013. In honor of his long tenure, Columbus Country Club named their annual member-guest tournament, The Taylor Cup. During his 37 years as a club professional and PGAmember, Gary was very active in the PGA. He served as Secretary, Vice-President and President of the Southern Ohio Section of the PGA. He was also a member of the PGA’s National Board of Directors from 1993-1995. First and foremost, Gary was always a teacher and won the Horton Smith Award on four occasions, plus was named Southern Ohio PGA Professional of the Year twice. Since his retirement, Taylor has served as a starter and official for Ohio Golf Association Championships and Society of Seniors Championships. He was previously inducted into the Southern Ohio PGA Hall of Fame. Ohio 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 Ohio 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. Ohio Golf Journal
Ohio Golf News The newly named Dana Open presented by Marathon will be held over Labor Day Weekend, August 29-September 4 at Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania. This year the women will be trying to grab a piece of the $1.75 million. The tournament raises funds for local children’s charities. During the tournament’s 37-year history, have this historic northwest Ohio company as our new title sponsor. At the same time, we’re also grateful to Marathon Petroleum for their generous support over the past nine years as title sponsor and decision to continue supporting the tournament as the presenting sponsor.” For more information visit: https://danaopen.com/ close to $13 million dollars have been raised for more than 200 children’s charities in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. “We’re extremely grateful to Dana Incorporated for this major commitment,” stated tournament director Judd Silverman. “Dana has been a loyal sponsor of the tournament since its beginning in 1984, and we couldn’t be happier to LPGA Tour Visits Toledo and Cincinnati Dana Open Ohio To Host 3 Professional Events
The Kroger Queen City Open The very next week the LPGA moves down I-75 for the Kroger Queen City Open presented by P&G. It will be held at Kenwood Country Club, which was recently completely renovated by Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design. This will be the first time in over 30 years that the LPGA has held an event in Cincinnati. Tickets for the event are $20 for a single-day ticket for Tuesday and Wednesday’s practice rounds, $25 for single-day tickets during tournament play (Thursday through Sunday) and $80 for a ticket for the entire week. There are also packages available for the Commissioner’s Club with access to special viewing areas and upscale food options. The Commissioner’s Club pays homage to three former LPGA commissioners, all of which have ties to Cincinnati, Charlie Mechem, Ty Votaw, and Michael Whan. To purchase tickets online visit: https:// queencitylpga.com/ Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship The 16th playing of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship will showcase the best talent on the Korn Ferry Tour, August 22 – 28, 2022, at The Ohio State University Golf Club’s Scarlet Course. Big names have won the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship in the past. Two of 2022 major championship winners on the PGATOUR have hoisted the Nationwide Trophy in the past. The current World No. 1 and reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler, and Justin Thomas, who won his second PGA Championship title in May at Southern Hills Country Club were winners in Columbus. On the current FedExCup points list, seven of the top-10 players, and 17 of the top-25, have competed in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship. In addition to Scheffler and Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Xander Schauffele, Cam Smith, Tony Finau, Sam Burns, Viktor Hovland, and Will Zalatoris all teed it up in this event. See tomorrow’s PGA TOUR stars today at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship. For Ticket information visit: https://ncc-golf.com/ Ohio Golf Journal
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! 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 American-born golf professional and also the country’s first Black golf professional.
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 Ohio 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.
Ohio 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.’’
Area 419 Putters Can Help Reduce Your Scores green, three putts, or more, are a common problem. Reducing the number of putts during a round exponentially reduces the overall score. A professional golfer normally accumulates 27-35 putts, but Joe Hacker will flail away with a putter over 40 times during his round. Are you beginning to see the problem here? 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 Ohio has long been a center for golf equipment innovation. Continuing that tradition, an Ohio-based company, Area 419 Golf, is bringing hi-tech design to the putter industry. Area 419 Golf is located just outside of Delta, in the northwest corner of the state. Area 419 is very well known among competitive marksmen for their high-quality rifles, firearms and reloading equipment. They send their products to every corner of the world. The owners of the company are avid golfers and recently By Fred Altvater brought their expertise in metal manufacturing and developing performance rifle barrels to creating a putter that will help take strokes off every skill-level of golfer’s game. Most golfers want to focus on finding that perfect driver and will spend well over $500 for such a weapon of mass destruction, which is used approximately 14 times during an 18-hole round. Putting, however, is the area where golfers can really take shots off their handicap. The putter is used on every hole and once a golfer finally gets to the Ohio Golf Journal
create putters with thousands of variations that will conform to each golfer’s unique physical needs. Heel and toe weighting alleviates off-center hits. The Maybe you aren’t a bad putter, you’re just using the wrong type of putter. If youare tiredof buyingChinesemade golf equipment and don’t want to spend a fortune on a driver, why not check out an Area 419 Golf putter, that will actually improve your scores? Learn more at their website. back can be customized with a blade, mallet or fang design. Plus, the putter face can be purchased with stainless steel, brass or copper inserts for maximum feel and roll. Area 419 Golf putters are ‘American Made’ and their inhouse precision manufacturing process allows them to design, produce, assemble and pack the highest quality parts with unmatched agility. “Our northwest Ohio employees assure that the box you open from Area 419 Golf delivers unsurpassed quality and performance. We make our products in America, from American materials, and we do it the American Way!”
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. Ohio 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 of Northeastern Georgia, 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 happens in movies and in 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 Ohio 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 Ohio 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. Ohio 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 hightech 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 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 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. SQAIRZ Releases New Mesh Design Ohio Golf Journal
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/ Ohio 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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