MemorialDraws AnotherStrongField OhioGolfHalofFameto Induct2NewMembers may202 SQAIRZ: BeterBalance +LesSway +BeterGroundConection =MoreDistance
May Flowers Mean Golf Balls Soaring in Ohio FRED ALTVATER Golf never forgets you and is always awaiting your return.” ~ Tommy Barnes, from Jim Dodson’s book........... Yes, the weather has been less than cooperative for golfers in Ohio this spring, but that is about to change. It will get warmer, the sun will shine, the rains will stop and Golfaholics will be able to lose golf balls once again. With flowers blooming and warm breezes moving the flags around all will be right in the golf world. We have had great responses to our earlier contests this year for French Lick and Firestone and are happy to announce the newest contest, compliments of SQAIRZ Golf Shoes. In June we will draw the name of a lucky person to win a Special Edition Collector’s Pair of SQAIRZ signed by threetime Masters Champion, Sir Nick Faldo. At the end of the month The Memorial Tournament hosted by Jack Nicklaus will hold it 47th edition. In addition to always drawing one of the strongest fields on the PGA Tour, it has raised millions of dollars for Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. Some ticket packages are already sold out, but other options are still available. Greg Norman has been in the golf news quite a bit lately and Global Golf Post publisher, Jim Nugent has the opinion it is time for LIV Investment Group to FIRE their CEO and find someone that can build a bridge between the new Saudi-backed golf tour and the PGA and DP World Tours. We are saddened by the death of one of the 13 original founders of the LPGA, Shirley Spork. She was a pioneer in women’s golf and will be missed. Finally, we want to congratulate Charles Chernock from Hamilton, who was the lucky winner of the 3 day/2 night golf package to Firestone. We know he will have a wonderful time at one of Ohio’s best golf destinations. The sun is shining and its not raining, I gotta make my tee time. Hope I see you on the Back 9. ~ Range Bucket List Ohio 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.
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 31 FIND INSIDE 10 18 25 36 For Distance & Comfort Choose SQAIRZ Golf Shoes Memorial Tournament to Have Another Strong Field LPGA Legend Shirley Spork Passes 06 10 16 2022 Ohio Golf Hall of Fame Inductees Announced Ohio Golf News World Amateur Handicap Championship Finale Moves to TPC Myrtle Beach PXG 0311 Gen5 Club Family Senior PGA Championship Returns to Benton Harbor Opinion: Jim Nugent Says It’s Time to Get Rid of Greg Norman Charles Chernock Wins Firestone Country Club Contest 18 20 22 25 29 31 12 Our Contributors Austin Greaser Reflects On Masters Appearance Lake Charles, Louisiana Always Bounces Back Our Favorite Videos 40 33 36 41 Ohio Golf Journal
Can a Golf Shoe actually help you Play Better Golf? Robert Winskowicz, Founder of SQAIRZ golf and former golf industry executive, loves golf and is constantly searching for ways to improve performance on the course. He, along with, three highly recognized footwear designers, one of which was the previous Director of Golf Footwear Design for Footjoy, developed SQAIRZ Golf Shoes to maximize stability and speed in the golf swing. Phil Stotter, Director of Sports Science at V1 Sports & Ground Force, one of the top experts in biomechanics and the use of ground force stated: “When we talk about biomechanics of the golf swing, it all starts with the body and its contact with the ground. The feet are the only two objects that actually touch the ground. If there are limitations in balance or stability with the ground, the golf swing will be affected and result in less than satisfactory performance.” For Distance & Comfort Choose SQAIRZ Golf Shoes Ohio Golf Journal
Testing has proven that weight distribution and stability are two key factors in creating a consistent golf swing. Golf shoes should allow for limited slippage and provide stable contact with the ground, but also have structure to permit adequate movement for correct weight distribution. Today’s lightweight – sneaker like shoes cannot hold up to the weight shifts and forces created during the swing. To create distance and balance during the swing, you need to use the ground and your only connection to the ground is your golf shoe. In a recent interview about SQAIRZ Golf Shoes, Mr. Winskowicz stressed the importance of ground contact and maintaining balance and stability throughout the golf swing. Learn more from the full interview, shown here as well as on Back 9 Report TV https://youtu.be/PPXBy-1Xgcg - Mou make a black box for video Before the first shoes were sold, months of independent testing of SQAIRZ versus competitive golf shoes with over 200 golfers proved that SQAIRZ produced more surface area connection with the ground than any other golf shoe, which produced greater ground force reaction, balance and stability, resulting in more accuracy and distance. Terry Hashimoto, co-founder of BodiTrak, a leader in pressure mapping, has worked with over 7,500 PGA Professionals and coaches to rapidly add distance using pressure mapping technology. Hashimoto was the first to realize that distance is created from the ground up. In extensive testing with SQAIRZ Golf Shoes he found that they have the highest contact surface area with the ground, which improves balance and stability throughout the swing. Plus, pressure mapping proved that much higher vertical forces were present on the lead foot, which is the number one way to gain distance. Hashimoto reached these conclusions from BodiTrak’s scientific analysis: • SQAIRZ allows pressure to move to the trail heel portion of the foot more rapidly during the backswing, generating more acceleration to the lead side quicker and creating a much greater “brake effect”, generating more vertical power on the
lead side prior to impact with impressive distance gains. • SQAIRZ’s greater balance and stability translated to less sway and better accuracy and energy transfer. • SQAIRZ resulted in a significant increase in hip and shoulder rotation. • SQAIRZ eliminated inefficiencies witnessed in sneaker like golf shoes. When six-time major Champion and Hall of Fame member Nick Faldo tried SQAIRZ for the first time, he immediately contacted the company and raved about the improvement he received in his golf swing. “Once I tried SQAIRZ, I’ve never worn any other golf shoe. The new SQAIRZ Speeds provides more distance, as well as more comfort.” Faldo has become a spokesperson for the company and extolls the virtues of SQAIRZ to everyone he talks with. Two-time major champion, John Daly is a believer in the benefits from SQAIRZ, plus top golf instructors, Rick Smith, Nick Bradley and Jim McLean teach the importance of ground force to improve performance, and all urge their students to wear SQAIRZ shoes. Golf instructor to the pros, Jim McLean feels that balance is key to a good golf swing. “The downswing begins with the feet, knees and hips. It is important to have proper balance Ohio Golf Journal
between the feet and heels to create the correct weight shift throughout the golf swing.” Sepp Straka joined the PGA TOUR in 2019 and was one of only eight rookies that made it to the FedEx Cup Playoffs. He had successful years in 2020 and 2021. Wearing SQAIRZ Golf Shoes, he recently garnered his first win at the Honda Classic and followed up with a top ten finish in The PLAYERS Championship. “SQAIRZ Shoes allowed me to really go after it, make three birdies in the final five holes, plus hit the longest drive of the week on the final hole to win the Honda Classic.” After comparison testing with 29 other golf shoes, My Golf Spy recently named SQAIRZ the most stable golf shoe on the market. “The SQAIRZ Speed wide base is perfect for those golfers wanting to use the ground to increase distance off the tee.” Others in the golf industry have noticed the game improvements provided by upgrading to SQAIRZ. Golf Digest named them the best golf shoes in 2020 and again in 2021. Winskowicz stresses that the two main connections in golf are the hands on the club and the feet to on the ground. “SQAIRZ’s unique design broke the mold of traditional shoes to provide better balance/ stability and ground reaction force, resulting in increased swing speed and more consistent accuracy. This is all documented with proven science and independent testing.” It has been scientifically proven that for distance and comfort SQAIRZ can’t be beat. The proof, however, is how they perform and improve your game. To find out more visit their website, plus check out their informative videos on SQAIRZ Golf on YouTube.
PGA Tour’s BEST will be at Muirfield Village, May 30June 5. The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday has accepted entries from 2021 Memorial winner Patrick Cantlay, along with Collin Morikawa, Cameron Smith and Xander Schauffele to assure another strong field for golf fans to watch in the 47th edition the Memorial Tournament. With the strength of Muirfield Village and host Jack Nicklaus most of the top golfers in the world want to come to Columbus to compete. Memorial Tournament to Have Another Strong Field Past champions at the Memorial have included many major champions. Over the past four years the winners have been young stars like, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Patrick Cantlay, who won for a second time last year. Cantlay picked up four of his seven career PGA TOUR victories last year. He finished the year strong by winning the TOUR Championship and the FedExCup title. He is currently ranked No. 4 in the world, as well as in the FedExCup points race. He has a total of six top10 finished over 10 starts this season. We asked Nicklaus about continually drawing a strong field for the Memorial and he told us, “When you put on a good event, when you take care of the players and compete on a good golf course, the players will come.” You can watch a full interview with Jack Nicklaus on Back 9 Report: Mou put video rectangle here Ohio Golf Journal
Two-time major champion, Collin Morikawa won the Workday Charity Open at Muirfield Village in 2020, but has not been able to add a Memorial win to his resume. Morikawa has had a solid 2022 campaign thus far, with six top-10 finishes in ten starts. He is currently ranked No. 3 in the world and No. 13 on FedExCup points list. He will be looking to improve from his loss to Cantlay in a playoff last year. Cam Smith won The PLAYERS and was a close challenger at Augusta National until Rae’s Creek ended his hopes of donning the Green Jacket in April. Smith’s hot streak this year includes five top-10 finishes in 10 starts and is ranked No. 5 in the world. Fan favorite Xander Schauffele has racked up 34 top-10 finishes in his six-plus seasons on TOUR, including five victories. Schauffele is currently ranked No. 21 in FedExCup points to go with his No. 12 world ranking. “Central Ohio has some of the best fans on the PGA TOUR,” said Memorial Tournament Executive Director Dan Sullivan. “Reaching a sellout in Golden Bear Club badges in early May not only speaks to the public’s excitement for the return of the full Memorial experience, without the restrictions we’ve faced the past two years, but is also a testament to their support of this community and passion for world-class golf.” To purchase badge options for the 2022 Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, visit www. memorialbadges.com, or call the Tournament Ticket Office at 877-682-2343.
A detailed piece written by Global Golf Post’s Publisher, Jim Nugent calls for the firing of Greg Norman, who has failed to deliver on any of his promises to the LIV Investment group. Thus far, his attempts to lure any of the top names in golf to defect to the new super league have been futile. Watch an interview with Jim Nugent on Back 9 Report: Mou – leave black rectangle for video Opinion Jim Nugent Says It’s Time to Get Rid of Greg Norman By Fred Altvater Ohio Golf Journal
Jim Nugent, founder and publisher of Global Golf Post reports that the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, with Greg Norman at the helm, seems to be in full retreat. Norman’s claims that top name players would jump at the chance to join a rival tour offering guaranteed money, plus fewer tournaments in which to compete, has not enticed any of the top players to jump from the PGA Tour, or DP World Tour. In fact, every attempt to recruit a big name has been thwarted. When it appeared Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau were ready to sign on with the LIV Golf Invitational Series, they instead decided to stay home and pledged their loyalty to the PGA Tour. Norman has been left with older players, who’s time at the top is well past. It has also been reported that the LIV Investment Series is offering top amateur collegiate players Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) guarantees to fill spots in tournaments. Nugent surmises that Augusta National Golf Club may have been a catalyst to influence players to shun the new league. The Masters is an invitational tournament. Augusta National officials have always invited past major champions to compete, but that is a tradition, not an official policy. Former past champions, like Dustin Johnson, may not be welcome at future Masters Tournaments, if they jumped to the rival league. “Norman tried to schedule a meeting with Augusta National Chairman, Fred Ridley, but was rebuffed until he made it good with the other institutions, meaning the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.” The absence of two-time Masters Champion, Phil Mickelson from the 2022 event, whether of his own accord, or at the behest of Augusta National, strongly confirms the fact that future appearances at The Masters are not guaranteed. This final fact seems to have put an end to the rebel uprising.
When the dealing was done, it seems Augusta National held all the aces in this high-stakes game. Phil’s attempt to lure other PGA Tour members to the new league solely to gain leverage to obtain personal media rights from the PGA Tour, left players with a sour taste in their mouth and has caused Mickelson’s exile from the tour, for the time being. Norman’s Saudi bosses at the LIV Investment Fund must be disappointed and embarrassed. “The Saudis didn’t sign up for a circuit of amateurs and aging tour players. They expected Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, DeChambeau and Mickelson. Instead, they have to settle for Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood, Kevin Na and a bunch of American college players.” LIV’s investment in the Asia Tour is a plus for that part of the world, but it is outside the parameters of the existing order of golf in the world. The ultimate winner of the Asian Tour will not be welcome in major championships, the DP World Tour, or the PGA Tour, thus there is no natural progression. “Despite stating over and over by Norman that his involvement is about growing the game and providing more and better playing opportunities for tour professionals, there always has been a sense among those paying attention that his (Norman’s) involvement is about one thing and one thing only: settling a 30-year-old grudge with the PGA Tour.” Nugent surmises, LIV Investments may be best served to lookelsewhere for anewleader. Someone experienced in international professional sports and media that can offer a return on their $500 million investment, rather than a sharp stick in the eye. Quotes from April 18, 2022, Global Golf Post, “Golf Saudi Must Jettison Norman,” written by Jim Nugent: https://bit.ly/3JU1shn Ohio Golf Journal
LPGA Legend Shirley Spork Passes In last month’s issue we wrote about the LPGA changing its rules for induction into the Hall of Fame to include Lorena Ochoa, as well as the original founders of the LPGA Tour. Just a few days after that announcement, Shirley Spork, one of the 13 original founders, died at the age of 94. She traveled the United States in the 1950’s with her other founding members and enjoyed seeing the country. Back 9 Report had a chance to chat with Shirley during the 2021 Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club in Toledo. You can watch the interview on Back 9 Report TV: Mou – insert black rectangle for video By Fred Altvater Ohio Golf Journal
Spork grewup inDetroit, Michigan, attended Eastern Michigan University and taught physical education at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). She taught golf to the young women at BGSU and along with legendary professional golfer, Peggy Kirk Bell, established the first women’s collegiate golf competitions between BGSU and the University of Findlay. Teaching golf was Shirley’s first love, and she convinced the LPGA to create the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional division to foster the growth of women’s golf. The road to the LPGA for Spork started during the Depression. Her family lived off the 17th fairway of Bonnie Brook Golf Course near Detroit, where they moved after her father lost his job and exchanged caretaker work for free rent. She bought her first golf club when she was 12, a putter she got for a dollar with money earned from selling golf balls she had found. She was forced to endure the laughter of the boys who caddied at Bonnie Brook because she used that putter to hit full shots. It was her only club. “Through the years I have met a lot of people and made a lot of dear friends,” Spork said. “It was fun to go to work every day and teach because people who came to me wanted to learn how to play. Learning to play the game of golf is like eating an elephant. It’s overwhelming unless you eat just one bite at a time and slowly digest it.” Shirley lived through the Great Depression and World War II, she helped found the most successful women’s sports leagues in the world and was one of the leading teachers of her time. She did it all with a quick wit and flair for life. JUST ASK OUR COURSE RECORD HOLDERS: PHIL MICKELSON, FRED COUPLES, LEE JANZEN & AN UNKNOWN AMATEUR. (We’re not kidding!) Can’t Top That. WWW.TREETOPS.COM | 81 SPECTACULAR HOLES BY GOLF’S GREAT DESIGNERS. EASY. GOLF IS
Charles Chernock Wins Firestone Country Club Contest The winner of the Firestone Country Club drawing was Charles Chernock, from Hamilton, Ohio. Charles plays to a 17 handicap and competes in a league on the Mill Course at Winton Woods. He enjoys playing several courses in the Cincinnati area: Miami Whitewater, Sharon Woods, Circling Hills and Indian Ridge. Two of his favorites are Stonelick Hills in Batavia and Harbor Links Golf Club in Liberty, Indiana. When he isn’t on the golf course, Charles is involved in coaching and refereeing soccer. Historic Firestone Country Club Firestone Country Club’s South course opened in 1929 as a park and golf club primarily for the use of Firestone employees. Robert Trent Jones designed the North Course and it opened in 1969. The Fazio Course (formerly known as the West Course) was created by Tom Fazio and opened in 1989. The three courses offer their own unique golf experience and provide golfers a variety of scenic views, as well as, challenging golf shots. No course has hosted more professional golf events than Firestone. In 1974 the club hosted three televised PGA Tour events, the American Golf By Fred Altvater His love for the game of golf has been passed down to his son, Nick, who is currently enrolled in the PGA Management Program at Eastern Kentucky. Charles and a partner will enjoy three days at Firestone, including a round of golf on all three courses, North, South and Fazio. Plus, he and his partner will also stay two nights on site at Firestone. Thanks to all who entered the contest and congratulations to Charles. We know he will enjoy his time spent at one of the most historic and beautiful golf destinations in the world. Ohio Golf Journal
Classic, the CBS Golf Classic and the World Series of Golf. The first professional tournament held on the South Course was the Rubber City Open, 19541959. Three PGA Championships, 1960, 1965 and 1975 were contested on the South Course, plus the WGC Invitational was held on the South Course 19992018, except for 2002. Tiger Woods has been very successful at Firestone, winning eight WGC Invitationals on the South Course. Since 2019 the South Course has hosted the Senior PLAYERS Championship a major tournament on the PGA visit: https://www.clubcorp. com/clubs/firestone-countryclub/stay-play. Learn more about Firestone Country Club from this Back 9 Report interview with General Manager Jay Walkinshaw: Mou, put a black rectangle for the video Tour Champions. Winners have included, Reteif Goosen, Steve Stricker and Jerry Kelly. Professional golf tournaments held at Firestone have generated over $30 million for Northern Ohio charities, since 1984. Although Firestone Country Club is for members only, stay and play packages are available for golfers that want to experience the history of this iconic golf venue. For more information
Bob Sowards and Gary Taylor to be inducted into the Ohio Golf Hall of Fame in August. The Hall of Fame was founded in 1992. Former members include, Jack Nicklaus, Bob Hope, Tammie Green, John Cook and Ben Curtis among others. The induction ceremony will be held at Plum Brook Country Club, in Sandusky, Monday, August 1. Bob Sowards Long time PGA teaching professional, Bob Sowards has played in 41 PGA Tour events including 11 PGA Championships and was a member of the PGA Tour in 2022 Ohio Golf Hall of Fame Inductees Announced 2008. He has also played in 76 Korn Ferry Tour events and was a member of the Korn Ferry tour in 1998, 2004, 2009. Sowards was PGA National Club Professional Player of the Year in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2014 and PGA National Club Professional Champion in 2004. He has continued to win big events as a senior golfer. He was the PGA National Senior Club Professional Player of the Year in 2018, 2019 and 2021 and was PGA’s National Senior Club Professional Champion in 2018. Sowards is an 18time PGA of America Southern Ohio Section Player of the Year and won the Southern Ohio PGA Section Championship ten times. Sowards has won three Ohio Open Championships and three Senior Ohio Open Championships. He was the CoChampion of the AA Ohio High School State Championship in 1986 and is a member of the Southern Ohio PGA Hall of Fame. Gary Taylor Gary Taylor attended Lakewood High School and continued his education at Eastern Kentucky University. He has been married to his wife, Linda (McGill) Taylor for 46 years. A Vietnam veteran he served in the Army 19671970. Ohio Golf Journal
Taylor began his career in golf in 1974 at Tates Creek Golf Club, while he was still a student. He served as an Assistant Professional under PGA member Don Shock at Columbus Country Club. In 1978 he became the Assistant Professional at Marietta Country Club under Bernie Wentis. Taylor got his first Head Professional job at Miami Shores Golf Club in 1979 and continued through the 1980 season before moving onto Marysville Country Club. He was Head Professional at Oakhurst Country Club, 19851986. In December 1986, Taylor was hired as the Head Golf Professional at Columbus Country Club following the retirement of Shock and remained the Head Golf Professional for the next 27 years until his retirement in 2013. Following his retirement Columbus Country Club named their Annual Member Guest, The Taylor Cup. During his 37 years as an active PGA member, Taylor served the Southern Ohio PGA Board holding the positions of Secretary, Vice President, and President. He also held the positions of Vice President and President for the Columbus chapter of the Southern Ohio PGA. He served on the PGA’s National Board of Directors from 19931995. Taylor is a four-time Horton Smith Award Winner for continuing education and twice was named Southern Ohio PGA Professional of the Year. Since retirement Taylor has served as a starter and official for Ohio Golf Association Championships and Society of Seniors Championships. Taylor is a member of the Southern Ohio PGA Hall of Fame. For more information regarding the Ohio Golf Hall of Fame, or the Ohio Senior Amateur Hall of Fame Tournament, contact the Ohio Golf Association at 614-698-0014.
OhioGolf News New Albany High School Teammates Make It to Semi-Finals of Women’s Amateur Four-Ball Kelly Hollenbaugh and Anna Ritter members of the New Albany Girls Golf Teamwere the 27th seed after the medal round of the USGA Women’s Amateur Four-Ball Championship in Puerto Rico. They made it all the way to the semifinals before being defeated 4-3 by the eventual winners, Thienna Huynh and Sara Im. Gianna Clemente fromWarren Back in USGA Women’s Four-Ball Fourteen-year-old Gianna Clemente from Warren, Ohio once again teamed with 15-year-old Avery Zweig, from McKinney Texas, in the USGAWomen’s Four-Ball Championship. The pair reached the semifinals last year as the youngest team in the field at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas, before falling to eventual champions Savannah Barber and Alexa Saldana. This year they made it through medal play as the 8th seed but were defeated in the first round of match play by Michelle Ho and Michelle Woo. Ohio Golf Journal
Country Music Star Eric Church to Perform at Memorial The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, an official PGA TOUR event founded and hosted annually by Jack Nicklaus, announced that 2020 Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year and 10-time GRAMMY nominee Eric Church will headline the 2022 edition of the Tournament’s annual benefit concert, Thursday, June 2, at KEMBA Live! in Columbus. Since its inception, the benefit concert has raised more than $800,000 for Nationwide Children’s thanks to the continued support from NetJets, who joined the benefit concert in 2018; IGS Energy, now entering its 12th year as the concert’s title sponsor; and City of Dublin, which has backed the event from its start in 2007. The 2022 Memorial Tournament presented by Workday is scheduled for May 30 – June 5 at Muirfield Village Golf Club. The public may call the Tournament Ticket Office 9 a.m.-5 p.m. EDT weekdays at 877-877-682-2343, or visit www.memorialbadges.com to purchase badges. Kids 18 and under can attend the Tournament for free with a ticketed adult. Daily practice round tickets for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are also available. The cost is $45.00 and they are valid for all three practice-round days. Seven Ohio Golfers Qualify Advance to Regional U.S. Open Qualifier Seven golfers led by Jackson Chandler qualified to advance to Final Round Qualifying for the 122nd U.S. Open that will be held at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, June 16-19. Final U.S. Open qualifiers will be held in Ohio on June 6 in Columbus at Kinsale Golf Club and Wedgewood Golf Club, as well as Springfield Country Club.
Celebrities Help Raise Funds for Children’s Miracle Network Through Golf Fifty celebrities including, Rob Riggle, Steve Young, Bo Jackson, Roger Clemens and Brett Hull have joined forces with ‘Play Yellow’ to participate in a celebrity golf auction to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Jack and Barbara Nicklaus created ‘Member for a Day’ and ‘Play Yellow’ to unite the golf community to help the 10 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. Inspired by Jack’s family friend Craig, who was diagnosed with childhood cancer, and his lucky color yellow, ‘Play Yellow’ engages golfers in raising critical funds for children’s hospitals. Once-in-a-lifetime rounds of golf with participating celebrities including the following: • Brett Hull at Troubadour Golf Club (College Grove, TN) • Clyde Drexler at Lochinvar Golf Club (Houston, TX) • Eric Dickerson at Wood Ranch Golf Club (Simi Valley, CA) • Gary Sheffield at Grove XXIII (Hobe Sound, FL) • Jack Wagner at Bel Air Country Club (Los Angeles, CA) • Mike Eruzione at Tedesco Country Club (Marblehead, MA) • Rich Beem at Horseshoe Bay (Horseshoe Bay, TX) • Rob Riggle at Sherman Oaks Country Club (Sherman Oaks, CA) • Shane Battier at Riviera Country Club (Coral Gables, FL) If you are interested to learn more, or would like to join the auction, Click HERE. Ohio Golf Journal
World Amateur Handicap Championship Finale Moves to TPC Myrtle Beach Grande Dunes was scheduled to host the finale until the decision was made to conduct a massive renovation. Long one of the area’s most acclaimed layouts, Grand Dunes will close on May 16th and not re-open until September 15th. Architect John Harvey, who worked with Roger Rulewich on the original design and construction of the course in 2001, will lead the renovation project. The greens will be restored to their original size, reclaiming nearly 40,000 square feet of putting surface, that had been lost through the ravages of time. TifEagle ultradwarf bermudagrass will be installed on the greens, plus every bunker will be renovated with a Capillary Concrete liner installed to eliminate washouts and drastically improve drainage. The clubhouse will also be expanded with the pro shop to grow by 400 feet. An indoor/ outdoor bar will be added, plus the outdoor seating will be greatly expanded. “Grande Dunes is one of Myrtle Beach’s crown jewels, and this renovation project will ensure the Golf is always in season in Myrtle Beach, where the lead-in to the 39th annual Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship is underway, even though the tournament will not be held until September. Early entries are already at 1,400 and will reach over 3,000, assuring once again, that it will remain the world’s largest golf tournament. In a major announcement, organizers have moved the Flight Winners Playoff, the climax of five days of competition, from Grande Dunes Golf Club to TPC Myrtle Beach. By Len Ziehm
FLORIDA: Saddlebrook Resort, inWesley Chapel, has new owners with big plans and the course will be closed for a major overhaul. Saddlebook opened in 1981 and includes two Arnold Palmerdesigned golf courses, as well as the 45 tennis courts with the Harry Hopman Tennis Academy. Camilo Miguel, chief executive officer of new owner Mast Capital, said his firm is in the early stages of a major renovation of the entire property. “There is a lot of opportunity in elevating the property and bringing back some of its luster,’’ said Miguel. “There hasn’t been much investment in the property in decades.’’ course continues to provide the type of experience golfers have come to expect,’’ said Steve Mays, president of Founders Group International, the course’s parent company and owner of 21 Myrtle Beach courses. Scott Tomasello, the World Am tournament director, has no qualms about the move to TPC Myrtle Beach, a Tom Fazio design that displays many of Dustin Johnson’s trophies in its clubhouse and hosts DJ’s World Junior Championship among many big events. “We knew TPC would be a perfect landing spot,’’ said Tomasello. “We look forward to showcasing their beautiful property.’’ The final shootout follows 72 holes of age group net competition that begins on August 29th. Over 50 otherMB courseswill be used in the preliminary rounds. For more information checkout www. myrtlebeachworldamateur.com. Golf Travel Notes: Ohio Golf Journal
WISCONSIN: Sand Valley is adding a third course and will eventually a fourth. Plus, there is The Sandbox, a short course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. Sand Valley, the namesake course is also a Coore/Crenshaw creation and David McLay Kidd designed Mammoth Dunes. Tom Doak will begin work on Sedge Valley this year and is scheduled to open in 2024. The more intimate par 68, Lido will open to members and resort guests in 2023. “The golf experience at Sedge Valley is completely different from anything else on the property,’’ said Sand Valley co-owner Michael Keiser. “Tom Doak moves so easily from the large-scale engineering project of the Lido to this much more intimate design. Watching him identify and work his routing to these incredible natural green sites was a true `pinch me’ moment. This is how the great ones have always done it.’’
PXG 0311 Gen5 Club Family By Ed Travis marketing them at a premium price. To a degree they have succeeded, and founder Bob Parsons has gained the reputation of making bold moves. When the company began marketing their clubs in 2014 every club was required to be professionally fitted to the individual. Plus, a full set of clubs cost upwards of $5,000.00. For the company to grow some things had to change. That pricing and commitment for the average weekend warrior golfer was not sustainable. The overall golf club manufacturing business has expanded to record levels in the past two years. PXG made the decision to reduce pricing, which increased their market share. Today they fall into the middle range of cost, although the “club company maverick” is still appropriate and the brash promotion hasn’t decreased. If you are looking to upgrade your old set of sticks that have been stuck in the corner of your garage over the winter, you may want to check out the new 0311 Gen5 club family, woods, hybrids, irons, from PXG. They have improvements over previous models that create faster ball speeds, less dispersion, plus have a higher MOI and better feel. PXG initially promoted itself as a maverick shaking up the traditional world of golf club manufacturing with innovative design and
Fast Facts PXG 0311 Gen5 Driver Aluminum vapor coated carbon fiber crown Adjustable hosel +/- 1.5° Improved aerodynamic shaped crown Three sole weights Face Ti412 titanium Head design dampens vibration Stock shafts: choice of four Stock grip: PXG Z5 Company President, Parsons extolled the introduction of the 0311 Gen5 models, “We absolutely killed it with these clubs. GEN5 is better in every way possible. From explosive distance to tight dispersion, to the oh-so sweet feel of forgiveness on every shot, these clubs are a master class in performance!” The technology of the drivers is interesting. PXG is the only company that applies the aluminum vapor coating to the carbon fiber crown inside a vacuum chamber. They contend this process stiffens the crown, thus lessening distortion at impact to increase the head’s Coefficient of Restitution to create faster ball speed as less energy is lost from crown deformation. For golfers that are not rocket scientists, Coefficient of Restitution, or COR is defined as the ratio of the final velocity to the initial velocity between two objects, after their collision. Basically, COR is a measurement of the energy loss, or retention when two objects collide. The bottom line is that there is less give in the crown of the club head, which creates a better launch off the face of the PXG Gen5 models, to make the ball go farther, as well as straighter. The XF model is longer from heel to toe with a larger profile, which makes it even more forgiving for those off center hits. Find out more at: https://www.pxg.com/en-us/ full-bag-deals Ohio Golf Journal
Senior PGA Championship Returns to Benton Harbor The Senior PGA Championship will celebrate the 82nd edition at the Golf Club at Harbor Shores, in Benton Harbor, May 25-29. The first Senior PGA Championship was held at Augusta National Golf Club in 1937. Now, as then, it recognizes the best professional golfer over the age of 50. Alex Chejka is the reigning Senior PGA Champion as he won last year at Southern Hills in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Chejka recorded his best month ever as a professional golfer when he won the Tradition on May 9 and finished the month by winning the Senior PGA Championship. His first two wins on the Champions Tour were majors times and when Jack Nicklaus was contracted to design a unique golf test. It has brought an economic rebirth to the area. Kerry Wright, Harbor Shores’ director of real estate sales, described the unlikely chain of events that brought Mr. Nicklaus to Michigan. “Whirlpool’s nonprofit division saw this land on the water that it wanted to transform. It was the idea of the company’s and quickly established him as a force on the senior circuit. In an interview with Back 9 Report Chejka talked about playing around the world, staying fit and winning two majors on the PGA Champions. Watch the full video here: Mou – leave a box for video Located in the Southwestern corner of Michigan on the Lake Michigan coast, Harbor Shores is a beach, golf and residential waterfront community. Benton Harbor had fallen upon hard
former CEO David Whitwam to build a golf course. Former board chairman Jeff Fettig had a friend from his alma mater of Indiana University who knew Jack Nicklaus. The only question was, would Jack come here and take a look?” Jack did come and the final result is a one-of-a-kind golf destination that is a must-play for every golf aficionado. The Senior PGA Championship offers the golfing public a chance to see these great professionals and walk the Nicklaus creation. One of the most popular attractions at the Senior PGA is the ‘Makers Trail 19th Hole Pavilion.’ This upgraded ticket option offers a fan experience like no other, providing Flex Ticket packages are also available and for the fan that is all in, check out the Champions Club ticket package. The list of familiar names in the field for the Senior PGA Championship is long and distinguished. Twenty-seven former major champions will tee it up including; Rich Beem, Mark Brooks, Mark Calcavecchia, Darren Clarke, John Daly, David Duval, Ernie Els, Jim Furyk, Retief Goosen, Padraig Harrington, Lee Janzen, Bernhard Langer, Tom Lehman, Larry Mize, Corey Pavin, Vijay Singh, David Toms and the everpopular Fred Couples. To purchase your tickets and find out more visit: https:// www.srpgachampionship.com/ attend/2022/tickets attendees with special access to a covered pavilion with comfortable seating, views of play, TVs to keep an eye on the action and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy specially crafted beverages. This year the pavilion represents some of the finest in the Southwest Michigan area: • North Pier Brewing (Benton Harbor, MI) • Watermark Brewing (Stevensville, MI) • Dablon Vineyards & Winery (Baroda, MI) • Round Barn Winery (Baroda, MI) • Journeyman Distillery (Three Oaks, MI) • Peats Cider Social (Stevensville, MI) Ohio Golf Journal
Austin Greaser Reflects On Masters Appearance As the runner-up to James Piot in the U.S. Amateur at Oakland Hills last summer, Austin Greaser, from Vandalia, was invited to compete in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National in April. “I realized that I’m now standing on the first tee at Augusta, playing in The Masters. This is what The Masters nerves feel like, this is what The Masters first tee feels like with all the people, and this is what the atmosphere feels like.” Although a member of the University of North Carolina golf team and a former Ohio Amateur Champion, walking the rolling hills of Augusta National still gave him chills. “That was the number one highlight, taking a deep breath there and walking down and trying to soak it in before getting into the competitive mindset and understanding all the late nights and early mornings and extra work made it all worth it. That was a highlight, to fulfill one of my highest goals of being a golfer.” For a college student it was a humbling experience. “It was a lot to swallow leading up The Masters. Being twenty-one and trying to juggle college,
golf, school, and also trying to prepare for The Masters was quite a bit. Trying to get all the details ironed out. I really learned a lot in terms of how to delegate things to other people,” Greaser said. “Sometimes you have to say “no.” You only have so much time in the day. It was a tough lesson to learn.” Greaser will need to use his experience atAugusta National to compete in the U.S. Open at The Country Club in Boston next month. “I need to focus a little bit more on me before the U.S. Open. Let the details be ironed out by somebody else, just focus on golf. Everyone else will take care of the little things and I’m the only person that can go play,’ Greaser said. “I’m the only person that has a tee time. I need to focus on the golf side of things and have some of the closest people around me focus on the rest.” None of the six amateurs made the cut in the Masters, but Greaser’s two-day score of sevenover par was the best among the amateurs. Greaser has one more year of college remaining at North Carolina. Taking the lessons he learned this year from the Masters and the U.S. Open, he should be ready to turn professional next year. *Quotes taken fromMiamiValley Golf Association Ohio Golf Journal
Lake Charles, in the southwestern corner of Louisiana has had a difficult couple of years. Since August 2020 the city has suffered through two hurricanes, a devastating flood, and a shocking deep freeze. The property damage has been massive, almost inconceivable. Add a pandemic to the mix and you might expect the ongoing misery to defeat its population, but Lake Charles always bounces back. Survival is imperative, because the nation depends on the wealth of natural resources from the region. The tourism industry around Lake Charles Lake Charles, Louisiana Always Bounces Back By Jim Grosjean can offer every visitor a wealth of opportunities to enjoy nature, play a game of chance at one of the modern casinos, or enjoy a round of golf on some truly spectacular courses. On a recent visit to Lake Charles, I found the golf to be better than ever. At the National Golf Club of Louisiana, a public course, that offers the friendly feel of a private club, I enjoyed a beautiful course full of lakes and well-maintained bunkers with ample opportunities for pars and birdies. I was thrilled by the new clubhouse and fabulous restaurant, The Max. The menu includes Ohio Golf Journal
Louisiana delicacies such as, crab cakes, oysters, gumbo, and etouffee, as well as plenty of craft burgers and sandwiches. It would be a shame to play here without a stop at The Max. Entertainment in the area centers around the L’Auberge Casino Resort and Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, both just a short drive from Lake Charles Regional Airport. Activities for the entire family include swimming in world class pools, floating on the Lazy River at the L’Auberge, as well as boating along the canals and lakes, or the Calcasieu River, which flows directly into the Gulf of Mexico. Throw out a line and fish along the way, or just enjoy the scenery. Louisiana is well known for its cajun and creole cooking, but I must give a special shoutout to
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Chef Lyle at Barstool in L’Auberge for preparing a tasting menu that was simply outstanding. All the restaurants we visited in Lake Charles, The James 710, Darrells, plus the Crying Eagle Taproom and Bistro provided mouthwatering Louisiana fare. Contraband Bayou is a Tom Fazio designed gem at the L’Auberge. Hurricanes have thinned out the trees considerably, since a previous visit, but the course is very challenging and a joy to play. The marsh and lowland foliage add to the beauty, plus some of the sightlines have actually improved. Any course with the Fazio name attached is always a treat! Next door lies the Country Club at the Golden Nugget which is more open than its neighbor. Its primary defense is water, pretty to look at, but a nemesis for golf balls. InMarch, the Country Club at the Golden Nugget hosted the inaugural Lake Charles Championship, a stop on the Korn Ferry Tour. It was a treat to play with the pros even though I embarrassed myself in the pro-am. Due to unusually wet conditions, we could only play nine holes at the new Mallard Golf Club. I enjoyed the back nine immensely and look forward to playing the entire course. Only six months old, the future for this new course is very bright. Mother Nature hasn’t been kind to Lake Charles recently, but the casinos, restaurants and courses are open. The friendly staff and Louisiana hospitality are off the charts. Come down to Lake Charles and be a part of its resurgence, plus have a great time doing it. As they say down there: “Laissez le bon temps rouler!” Let the Good Times Roll! For more information visit: http://www. visitlakecharles.org
Our Contributors This Month Ed Travis 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/ 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 Jim Grosjean Jim Grosjean is a former Buckeye, an avid golfer, who plays to a 7 handicap, and now resides in Tucson. He retired from his day job, that spanned over 50 years, as a professional musician in Nashville. During that time, he performed with Frank Sinatra, Garth Brooks, Itzhak Perlman, Bruce Springsteen and hundreds more familiar names. You can find out more at: https:// www.facebook.com/jim.grosjean Ohio Golf Journal
VIDEOS Back 9 Report chatted with Global Golf Post Publisher, Jim Nugent about Greg Norman’s failure to lure top name talent to the new Saudibacked LIV Investment Series Golf League. Jack Nicklaus talked with Back 9 Report about learning the game from the greats and Tiger’s phenomenal performance at The Masters. Ben Crenshaw Talks with Back 9 Report Ben Crenshaw won two Green Jackets but is better known today for his golf course design company in partnership with Bill Coore. He talked with Back 9 Report last month about a couple of his best. Back 9 Report and Jim Nugent Discuss Greg Norman’s Future Jack Nicklaus Talks Tiger Woods at The Masters & How He Learned from Golf’s Greats. Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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