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Page 1: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

W W W . F L O R I D A G O L F C E N T R A L . C O M

...Don't Call It A Comeback!Pgs 36-39

Page 3: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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13-G

O-0

354

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Page 4: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum

Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates

Executive Editor: Joel Jackson–Director of Communications

for the Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association

North Florida Regional Editor: Stephen Trendler

West Coast Regional Editor: Chris Karamitsos

Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson

Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan

Public Relations & Social Media Director: Green Gazelle Marketing

Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.

Media Muse: Mike Gooding

Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA;

Greg Wise, Ed Gilbert, Bob Bolton, Elisa Gaudet, Jackie Henson

Leonard Finkel, Mike Jamison, Greg Howard, Marge Vale

Business Manager: Debbi Westbrook, [email protected]

Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, [email protected]

Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com

Magazine Printing:Sundance Graphics9580 Delegates Drive, Orlando, Florida 32837 • 800.617.5532

Florida Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by:Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations

1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

NEW PHONE: 321.765.4215fax: 407-365-3436 • toll-free: 877.208.5972

E-mail: [email protected]

One year (12 issues) subscription price is $42.99

Associate Publisher, Arizona Golf Central Magazine: Jason Keesling

3461 East Acoma Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85032phone 602.387.0616

E-mail: [email protected] or

[email protected]

©2013 Florida Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publish-er. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Florida Golf Central Maga-zine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Florida Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

Volume 14, Issue 2

from

the pu

blish

er

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year

Terrie Purdum would never

consider the idea of failing or

question my self-worth, or the

idea that I have a strong sense

of purpose. Lately, I’ve not really

been myself, just a tick off; not

attending celebrity charity golf

events, pairings parties, wimping out on golf dates. To be successful

and survive in this world, sometimes you need to be demanding. I’ve

been in business for myself my whole adult life, so I know when to be

demanding and when to defend my style. Don’t ever tell me “can’t”,

because can’t is the new C-word! Lately though, I’ve found myself

coming up with reasons to not do things I normally would, like at-

tending functions and skipping lunch meetings with people who

actually want to pick my brain…REALLY?!? I lay awake wondering,

“Who is this person and what has she done with the real Terrie? “

Sometimes in life, it is necessary to be the biatch. Life isn’t all aces

and eagles. FGCM didn’t get to where it is today by taking things per-

sonally, backing down and being afraid to be different. Our goal has

always been to be fun, and promote and maintain a strong identity

with our readers. Don’t you know who we

think we are?

Thanks as always for your

love and support! Happy Moth-

ers’ Day!!!

Mom, you have always provided

for me and shown me that hard

work is the key to success. And

that without living a passion-

ate life is not really living at

all. THANK YOU FOR ALL OF

THE DRAMA AND HARDSHIP

THAT HAS GIVEN ME LAY-

ERS. But most of all THANK YOU

FOR ALWAYS BEING THERE

FOR ME AND WANTING THE BEST FOR ME. YOU ARE A TRUE ROLE

MODEL AND A WONDERFUL MOTHER!

Stolen Identity – Do you know who you are?

A note from My daughter Tonyia, with Grandchildren Sydney and Tyler

Page 5: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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BURN UP MORE THAN THE GREENS WITH CELSIUS, THE GAME CHANGINGHEALTHY ENERGY DRINK.

www.celsius.com†Celsius alone does not produce weight loss in the absence of a healthy diet and moderate exercise. Whether you walk the dog, play tennis or exercise at the gym, make Celsius Your Ultimate Fitness Partner.® Visit www.Celsius.com to read the clinical studies that show the benefits of drinking Celsius.

Award winning Celsius has been clinically proven to Improve Endurance, Boost Performance and Rev Up your Metabolism. This great tasting fitness drink helps burn up more than the greens... it burns calories too. Give your game the winning edge with Celsius!

HEALTHY LASTING ENERGY†* CLINICALLY PROVENBOOST PERFORMANCE†*

IMPROVES ENDURANCE†*

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Page 6: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Departments 4 Letter from the Publisher 8 Golf Central Station 10 Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association 18 Two Good Rounds 40 Live Golf 44 Competitive Spirits 50 Duffer Dan

52 PGA of America 54 North Florida PGA 58 LPGA 60 South Florida PGA 62 Central Florida 64 Central Florida 66 Gold Coast 68 Platinum Coast 70 Product Showcase 72 Aces & Eagles

19th Hole 16 Nona Blue

Cart Girl 14 Yulia Medcalf

Course of Dreams 22 Golf Academy of America

Feature 36 RIFE Golf

Fore Your Health 46 Edith Straub

Golf Bachelor 12 Darren DeCarlo

Golf FORE Charity 48 Fairway Warriors

Golf Travel 24 Horse Stamp Inn

Improving Performance 28 Saddlebrook Resort

28 Swing Jacket

Player Profile 42 Mike McBath

Player Development 32 Little Linksters

Special Events 20 Med School Classic

34 World Golf Hall of Fame

Stay & Play 26 Villas of Grand Cypress

Young Guns 30 JJ Qualkenbush

Volume 14, Issue 2

floridagolfcentral.com22

44

50

52

Page 7: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

7Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

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Page 8: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

8 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla.-WCI Communities, the Bonita Springs-based lifestyle community developer and luxury homebuilder, announced today that it has purchased Sarasota National, a 2,400-acre golf course community located approximately 20 miles south of downtown Sarasota in Venice, Fla. Sarasota National is approved for 1,584 homes, including 800 homes surrounding the golf and country club portion of the community. About 30 homes have been completed to date. Sarasota National’s existing 18-hole golf course, designed by Gordon Lewis, is an Audubon International Certified Signature Sanctuary, and includes a golf pro shop, driving range, and chipping and putting greens. More than 1,300 acres of the development are designated for preservation, conservation and open space. Future amenities are likely to include a main resort-style clubhouse with fine

and casual dining, a spa and fitness facility, tennis courts and pools overlooking the golf course. WCI anticipates opening the community for sales late this year. The company did not disclose the sale price. WCI Communities is a lifestyle community developer and luxury homebuilder, catering to move-up, second-home and active adult homebuyers. WCI offers traditional single- and multi-family home choices with prices from approximately $160,000 to more than $1 million. In addition to homebuilding and development, WCI generates revenues from its real estate brokerage business, the second-largest brokerage in Florida. Learn more about WCI Communities and the company’s premier lifestyle communities and experiences by visiting www.WCICommunities.com or calling 800-WCI-2290.

WCI Communities golf promotion supports

All Faiths Food BankVENICE, Fla.– For the fourth consecutive year, WCI Communities has partnered with All Faiths Food Bank to create a unique funding opportunity: Supporters who donate $100 to the food bank through the www.WCIGolf.com website will receive a complimentary foursome at one of four WCI golf courses in Southwest Florida. In three years, the golf promotion has raised nearly $5,000 for the All Faiths Food Bank and provided approximately 40,000 meals for families in need. The complimentary foursome certificates are valid for play June 1 through Sept. 30 and are available for purchase now through Sept. 15. Tee time reservations are available two days in advance at the following WCI golf courses:•Venetian Golf & River Club in Venice (www.VenetianWCI.com) •Pelican Preserve Golf Club in Fort Myers (www.PelicanPreserve.com)•Raptor Bay Golf Club in Bonita Springs (www.RaptorBayGolfClub.com) •The Colony Golf & Country Club in Bonita Springs (www.TheColonyGolfCC.com) All Faiths Food Bank solicits, collects, processes and distributes food to nonprofit agency partners offering hunger relief. In cooperation with more than 190 partner agencies, AFFB distributes more than 88,000 meals in Sarasota and DeSoto counties. For more information or to donate, visit www.WCIGolf.com and select the All Faiths Food Bank icon or contact Bob Radunz at 239-390-4703, [email protected]. WCI Communities is a lifestyle community developer and luxury homebuilder, catering to move-up, second-home and active adult homebuyers. WCI offers traditional single- and multi-family home choices with prices from approximately $160,000 to more than $1 million. In addition to homebuilding and development, WCI generates revenues from its real estate brokerage business, the second-largest brokerage in Florida. Learn more about WCI Communities and the company’s premier lifestyle communities and experiences by visiting www.WCICommunities.com or calling 800-WCI-2290.

WCI Communities purchases Sarasota National

Venetian Golf & River Club golf course hole #2

Bird's Eye View of Sarasota National

Page 9: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

9Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

the moment you arrive.

YO U ’ L L B EI M P R E S S E D

J A C K S O N V I L L E / S T . A U G U S T I N E

888-740-7020 • RenWGV.com

Getaway to the Renaissance World Golf Village Resort and Beach Club – home of the World Golf Hall of Fame. You’ll stay in a newly remodeled room and play on one of two world-famous layouts – King & Bear, the only course ever co-designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, or Slammer & Squire, created by Sammy Snead and Gene Sarazen.

*Valid through 12/31/12. Valid Florida/Georgia Drivers License required. Per room, per night, based on availability. Advanced reservations required. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Tax and gratuity not included.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Luxurious, freshly renovated room• Round of golf on King & Bear or Slammer & Squire• Breakfast at our new Villagio Italian Grille• Free range balls• Complimentary shuttle to Serenata Beach Club

Florida/Georgia Resident STAY & PLAY PACKAGE

PER ROOM PER NIGHTTWO GOLFERS

$259from

PER ROOM PER NIGHTONE GOLFER

$184from

* *

King & Bear Clubhouse–18th Green

WGV32469 FLGolfCentralAD.indd 1 1/19/12 10:25 AM

the moment you arrive.YO U ’ L L B EI M P R E S S E D

J A C K S O N V I L L E / S T . A U G U S T I N E

888-740-7020 • RenWGV.com

Getaway to the Renaissance World Golf Village Resort and Beach Club – home of the World Golf Hall of Fame. You’ll stay in a newly remodeled room and play on one of two world-famous layouts – King & Bear, the only course ever co-designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, or Slammer & Squire, created by Sammy Snead and Gene Sarazen.

*Valid through 12/31/13. Valid Florida/Georgia Drivers License required. Per room, per night, based on availability. Advanced reservations required. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Tax and gratuity not included.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Luxurious, freshly renovated room• Round of golf on King & Bear or Slammer & Squire• Breakfast at our new Villagio Italian Grille• Free range balls• Complimentary shuttle to downtown St. Augustine

Florida/Georgia Resident STAY & PLAY PACKAGE

PER ROOM PER NIGHTTWO GOLFERS

$259from

PER ROOM PER NIGHTONE GOLFER

$184from

* *

King & Bear Clubhouse–18th Green

WGV32469 FLGolfCentralAD.indd 1 1/19/12 10:25 AM

Page 10: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

FL R

estau

rant &

Lodg

ing A

ssoc

.

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging As-sociation is proud to celebrate with its

members, Russ and Tracy Libby, who

recently celebrated their 10th year of

ownership of Hidden Hills Country

Club in Jacksonville, Florida. Since

purchasing the club in 2003, the couple

has restored the privacy of the beauti-

ful country club which is situated in a

vibrant community near historic Fort

Caroline. The club offers membership

opportunities to fit the varying life-

styles of its members who live inside

and outside of the community gates.

With active tennis, golf, fitness and

aquatics programs, Hidden Hills offers

something for everyone, but the club’s

Arnold Palmer Signature Golf course

does take center stage. The course

sits on a unique piece of property and

nowhere else in North Florida does

nature grace a golf course with such

varying terrain and dramatic elevation

changes with rolling fairways guarded

by stately oaks and towering pine trees.

The club was the host to the Greater

Jacksonville Open in the early 70’s –

the forerunner of today’s PLAYERS

Championship – and has a longstand-

ing tradition of excellence in Jack-

sonville since 1966.

Perhaps the most enticing thing

about Hidden Hills is the warm, cozy

feeling that you recognize when

you walk through the front doors.

“Our members are the most loyal

and supportive group that I have come

across in my 25 years in the business”,

said Russ Libby, PGA professional,

owner and manager of the club. “We

are blessed to have such a caring and

devoted membership and supportive

neighborhoods who undoubtedly can

attest that the success of the club

positively impacts the entire com-

munity. I also believe that they enjoy

the cozy atmosphere that we have

nurtured through the years and the

personal touches that come along

with a family owned and managed

club. We are truly thankful to be a

part of this great country club and

plan to be here for many more years.”

For information on Hidden Hills

Country Club, please call them

at 904-641-8121, visit their web-

site at www.hiddenhillscc.com or

view the club on Facebook.

Tracy and Russ Libby

Page 11: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Golf Tours to Scotland and Ireland in 2012 to suit all budgets. Tayleur Mayde Golf Tours was established in 1999. Play St Andrews, Ballybunion, Turnberry,

Muirfield, Carnoustie and many more.

Play Golf in Scotland and Ireland

Call free on 800-847-8064 or see www.tayleurmayde.com

Page 12: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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lf ba

chelo

r

Darren

DeCarloDarren

DeCarlo

12 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Born in cornfields of IL, about 50 miles south of Chicago which will always be home to me. I visit as much as I can. Moved to Orlando in 94’ and loved the Florida lifestyle. As far as “growing up” that has never happened anywhere…

What do you do for a living? I became a PGA Professional in 1999’ and current Owner & CEO of Spike Golf LLC. We man-ufacture The Perfect Club Golf Collection. The Perfect Club Collection consists of a series of clubs all designed to replace the most difficult clubs to hit; mid-irons, long-irons, fairway woods, wedges, chipping clubs and the driver. The best part of my job is getting feedback from golfers on how our clubs have greatly improved their game and having fun on the course again. See for yourself at www.theperfectclub.com

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Aside from golf, I like to Ocean fish, play poker, hang out with friends and relax on the beach or poolside.

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? Of course my awesome mother! She’s the most caring, giv-ing and supportive person in the world. Hi Mom!

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? When a golfer picks up a 5 foot putt and says “that’s par”. Seems like every year the “gimmie” has gotten longer and longer.

What do you fear the most? I will ride any roller coaster on this planet, go 35 miles out on the Ocean swim with sharks and probably jump out of an airplane, but a Ferris Wheel I just won’t do! That, and 1 foot birdie putts.

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Payne Stewart- I met Payne at Lake Nona during a charity event, an amazing and inspiring per-son; Tiger and my dad.

Have you ever witnessed sex on the links? Lets just say, when I was Director of Golf at a course here in Orlando, I let Rachel’s have their golf tournament at our course. To say it was wild and crazy is a complete understatement! It was way out of control… I’ve never seen so many “carts” behind trees, behind bushes and just a few groups were actually what we call “playing golf”. The cart guys and staff were riding all over the golf course to catch all the “action”. I received a hundred angry calls from home owners telling me what they were seeing outside their windows. Well, some home owners called to ask how they could sign up next year! Out of 36 groups only 4 turned in a score card. It was like Bushwood CC from Caddyshack. And of course, I let them play the following year!

Page 13: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

“No Houses – Just Pure Golf”5 Sets of Tees – 5,045 yards to 7,221 yardsExpansive Range – Practice and Chipping GreensFriendly Staff – Group and Individual Lessons AvailableRusty Niblick Pub & GrillJunior Clinics – Tuesday Evenings June -August 5-9 year olds – 5:00pm 10-14 year olds – 6:00pmLadies League 1st Tuesday of each monthWednesday Twilight League – 2 man Best BallCouples and Cocktails – 3rd Friday of each month 4:00-5:00 Happy Hour 5:00 Tee Times

Book Tee Times Online at Forestlakegolf.comor phone 407-654-4653

Located off the 429 between Ocoee and Apopka

Architects – Clifton Ezell Clifton Golf Desing Group

Page 14: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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l

Where did you grow up?I grew up in Russia, all over the country as my dad was in the Army. I moved to Florida 11 years ago.

What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?I like ice skating (the only thing I’m missing here in Florida) and kickboxing. Love to watch hockey and American football.

Do you enjoy playing golf?Yes! Im not very good at it, but it’s always a fun time :)

What do you feel makes this club special?Our staff is amazing! Everyone is working as a team and we are more like a family here. It gives me a good feeling every day I come to work.

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl?I LOVE my job! I have THE MOST BEAUTIFUL OFFICE and I get to meet people from ALL OVER THE WORLD! And it’s always great to see them coming back year, after year.

If you weren›t a cart girl, what would you be doing? I am good with numbers so probably an accountant

What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?Meeting Michael Jordan (who is a pretty good golfer) and the boy band NSYNC who actually asked me (!?!?) to take a picture with them

Relaxing evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?Relaxing evening at home with glass of wine is my heaven.

Favorite comedian?Robin Williams

Favorite type of movie?Comedies, Drama

Favorite charity to support?Any kid’s charity deserves support!!!

What else would you like for us to know about you?Pistachio ice cream is my biggest weakness

Yulia Medcalf

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 214

Page 15: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Yulia Medcalf

Page 16: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 216

19th

hole

16

The restaurant was slightly more than a con-cept in March, 2012, but founding partners Bill Bona and Joe Davi had al-ready joined forces with 2010 U.S. Open Champion Graeme McDowell. A few names had been kicked around for the “modern tavern” that was about to begin con-struction just outside the gate of Lake Nona Golf & Country Club when lightning struck in the form of yet another Lake Nona victo-

ry on home turf in the Tavistock Cup. Clad in Team Nona’s iconic blue and celebrating with his team-mates, McDow-ell shouted, “Nona Blue!” to a gathering of supporters, including Bona, and a signature name was born. By the time the restaurant opened in March of this year, McDow-ell’s name had become inextri-

cably linked with Nona Blue. Post-round interviews with Graeme on network televi-sion inevitably led to men-tion of his new venture with Bona and Davi, and Nona Blue became legend at birth. A pre-opening VIP event drew many of McDowell’s friends and European Ryder Cup teammates, including Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter, Peter Hanson and Henrik Stenson. On any given night, touring professionals, cad-dies and golf television personalities are scattered about the indoor – outdoor layout, enjoying everything that Nona Blue has to offer. But there’s far more to Lake Nona’s newest destination than food, drink and golf’s glitterati. Bona, Davi and McDowell agreed at the outset that the restaurant was destined to become an integral part of Lake Nona. “It gives me great pleasure to know

that Nona Blue is a part of our com-munity,” McDowell said. “I have a home here at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, and we are all proud that Nona Blue is not just a social hub for our neighbors and everyone in the surrounding com-munities, but is also poised to contribute to the academic and athletic programs of our schools and the schools and re-search centers of Medical City.” Part of the community approach for

Nona Blue includes playing host to “The Leaderboard,” a weekly radio show that bills itself as “Golf, more golf and anything even remotely related to golf.” The show airs Monday nights 7 – 8 pm EST on 740 The Game, Orlando and has featured McDowell and LPGA Tour pro Jacqui Concolino as live guests in the past few weeks. Poulter and Annika Sorenstam are slated to appear later this season. Listeners and guests are welcome to watch the show live every Monday night. Since opening, the hospitality driven philosophy adopted by the founding partners has served the restaurant well. Innovative modern cuisine and fresh seasonal cocktails are served in a tavern setting that fits the eye and soothes the soul. The display kitchen is complemented with exposed brickwork and rich, dark mahogany, creating a warm and invit-ing atmosphere. The indoor dining area offers a number of options, including a

40-seat bar, two captain’s tables, wrap-around booth seating throughout and a seating area with drawn curtains for pri-vate events. An outdoor patio features a fireplace, intimate bar and al fresco dining. “When executed properly, great restau-rants become more than simply a location to have dinner and drinks,” Bona said. “They become ingrained in the fabric

of the community as a place to gather, meet and make friends, and truly be-come a local amenity.” Nona Blue is located in Lake Nona Village on Narcoossee Road, between the entrances to Lake Nona Golf & Coun-try Club and NorthLake Park. To treat yourself, your friends and your regular foursome to the Nona Blue experience, call 407.313.0027.

Lake Nona’s Newest AmenityGolf Blends with Cuisine

at Nona Blue

Page 17: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Join us for breakfast before your round, enjoy lunch on our outdoor terrace, or a casual dinner overlooking the golf course.

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Page 18: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 218

Spring signals the start of the golf

season for many in the north east of

the US and there is nothing better to

kick it off than the Masters. Augusta

National can best be described as golf’s

cathedral. The pristine lush green

grass and pink azaleas are its calling

card and a welcome sight after a long

winter. Just as an art collector walking

into the Louvre in Paris so is the feeling

for any golfer walking on the grounds

of Augusta National.

“What other people may find in poetry or art museums, I find in the flight of a good drive.”~Arnold Palmer

While making the trip to Augusta for

the Masters is on most golfers bucket

list of “must do” it may not be in the

cards every year. A Masters a party

with fellow golf fanatics is a great way

to spend the Sunday and it is always

nice to bring a bit of the south to any

area. If you can’t join them create your

own signature 19th hole. First start

with the Masters signature cocktail,

The Azalea. (1 part lime or lemon

juice, 1 part canned pineapple juice, 3

parts gin, Grenadine to color pink, Mix

in cocktail shaker with ice and shake).

*Note I adapted it to my Two Good

Rounds liking and used Ketel One

vodka in lieu of gin.

The much talked about food item

at the Masters is the pimento cheese

sandwich. This can best be described

as spicy cheese whiz on white bread.

You can find recipes on line for this

cheese concoction but truly this is

Augusta’s secret recipe and clearly a

southern thing as Colonel Sanders has

a lock down on chicken. I had been at

Augusta early week so I purchased 8 of

these well wrapped pimento sandwich-

es (at $1.50 each sparing no expense for

my guests) as I was leaving the course

and then bought a cooler bag from the

local supermarket and carried them on

the flight home.

“The first time I played the Masters, I was so nervous I drank a bottle of rum before I teed off. I shot the happiest 83 of my life.”~Chi Chi Rodriguez

While you may not want to wait until

next year to create your own 19th hole

party there is still plenty of time as the

Masters marks the first of the four ma-

jors. No reason why you can’t repeat

for each major and don’t forget The

Players, golf’s fifth major, in May with

Sunday play on Mother’s Day. Basi-

cally you can have a party a month for

the rest of the summer. June is the US

Open held at Merion Golf Club in Penn-

sylvania, July is The Open (the British

Open) held at Muirfield in Scotland

and in August the PGA Championship

at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester

New York. I am thinking some kilts and

little Scotch on Sunday in July may not

be a bad idea.

Masters Party Essentials: Azalea

Plant for decoration, Azalea drinks,

wines by notable golfers: Ernie Els,

Luke Donald, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus,

Pimento sandwiches, deviled eggs, fried

chicken, and caramel pecan popcorn.

Add some fellow golf friends and a

great golf outfit. Mix together, Enjoy

and remember...

“If you drink, don’t drive. Don’t even putt.”~Dean Martin

two g

ood r

ound

sBy Elisa Gaudet

Azalea and Pimento Cheese

Page 19: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

19Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

PERFORMANCE SUNWEAR

On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most

important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt

to changing light to help golfers see more

comfortably in all light conditions and help

protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Visit your local Vision Source doctor,

Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa

Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL

32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.

transitions.com

Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelmanhave made Transitions® lenses part of their game.

Voted by Golf Digest Places

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The Inaugural Med School Classic at Lake Nona was played April 22, 2013, and raised $35,000 for the UCF College of Medicine Scholarship Fund. The shotgun start, best ball scramble included 26 foursomes from across Central Florida. The winning teams were Thomas Lynne Properties (1st place), First American Title (2nd place) and Fifth Third Bank (3rd place). The tournament was hosted by a group of 30 Central Floridians who came together in 2012 to form a non-profit with the express purpose of raising funds for the UCF College of Medicine Scholarship Fund. Founding sponsors are Dan DeCubellis of Carlton Fields, Jim Warmus of Averett Warmus

Durkee and Joe Vetter of PNC Bank. Dr. Deborah German, Dean of the College of Medicine, accepted the $35,000 check at the Awards Ceremony and Reception following

the tournament at Lake Nona Country Club. Dean German commented, “Our goal is to provide economic impact and build a medical city that is there for all of us.” Dan DeCubellis replied, “We want to do everything we can to support that because our whole region benefits from the Medical School.” Additional sponsors included: Family Physicians Group, Jefferies, The Vaughan Group, First American Title, The PFM Group, Barclays, Wyndham Vacation Ownership, Spine and Brain Neurosurgery Center and Blown Away. The Med School Classic will return in the spring of 2014. Information is available at www.medschoolclassic.com.

Inaugural Med School Classic Raises $35,000

Page 21: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Plan your next Orlando golf getaway with ease with Starmark Vacation

Homes. We’ll hook your foursome up with a spacious, well-appointed

private home with four bedrooms or more, pool and other amenities — for

less than a hotel suite. All you need to do is bring your clubs. Simply visit

StarmarkVacationHomes.com or call 800.921.4590.

Reference code FLGOLF4 to receive a 4th night FREE, plus a discount of $60 per foursome, per round at Orange Lake Club.

Play like you’re at home.

Stay in a Starmark Vacation Home.

SPM148_GolfAd_FLGolfCentral_05C.indd 2 5/29/12 1:11 PM

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cours

e of d

reams

A total of 185 students from Golf

Academy of America (GAA) campuses

in Myrtle Beach, Orlando, Phoenix and

San Diego earned an associate degree

in Golf Complex Operations and Man-

agement during separate graduation

ceremonies on April 19.

“These students put in a lot of hard

work and all of them are now well-pre-

pared to step into golf career oppor-

tunities anywhere in the world,” said

Jim Hart, president of Golf Academy of

America. “Our students are some of the

best-trained and most knowledgeable

golf career professionals in the indus-

try. When they leave Golf Academy of

America, they are recognized as the

future golf professionals who will lead

this industry.”

The GAA is the largest and longest-

running two-year golf career college in

the world and prepares graduates for a

wide array of golf career opportunities

in the $76 billion a year industry. Golf

Academy of America is a golf course

management school offering a com-

prehensive curriculum of golf instruc-

tion and business management and is

accredited by the Accrediting Council

for Independent Colleges and Schools

(ACICS). The 16-month program balanc-

es classroom studies, practical experi-

ence and a comprehensive understand-

ing of both the game and the business

of golf.

The GAA boasts an exceptional

career placement record for gradu-

ates for opportunities including: golf

teaching professionals, tournament

organizers, club managers and owners,

golf manufacturing representatives,

product development specialists and

golf professionals at golf-related com-

panies, among many other golf career

options.

For more information about

Golf Academy of America, go to

www.GolfAcademy.edu, or call (800)

342-7342.

Golf Academy of America Announces Graduating Classes For Spring 2013Total of 185 Students Earn Associate Degrees in Golf Complex Operations and Management

Page 23: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Golf Talk From “Inside The Ropes”

Holly G & Rich B

To advertise call:321-303-9684

Listen Live!!Wednesdays 6:00 - 7:00 pmLive Radio, Online or Mobile Device!

www.TheGolfInsiders.com

Perry’s has been a family favorite for generations. Our spectacular indoor garden and heated pool make your vacation weatherproof. Kids and grandkids love the Kids Beach Suites. And grownups love the Perrycation package that includes dine-around certificates good at outstanding restaurants. But best of all . . . Perry’s knows golf! Our reservations team can craft a custom golf package with any of the many choice courses. So visit perrysoceanedge.com or call (800) 447-0002.

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Only 25 miles north of the Florida border from Jacksonville off I-95, this Southern plantation style mansion is a first class inn. Although the mansion itself looks like a fully restored Civil war residence, it is in fact an incredibly designed newer home with the feel of history. The long entrance driveway to the mansion provides an immediate feel of Gone with The Wind and knowing you have arrived at a very special place. A large porch entrance greets you where you can spend hours on the rocking chairs taking in the beautiful horse farm-like setting surrounded by woods. Although it looks like you will be greet-ed by Rhett Butler and Scarlet O’Hara, you are warmly welcomed by owners Tom and Chris Hutcheson. Then, you enter into an environment where ever room is a major “WOW” of impressive

southern charm, comfort, relaxation, and knowing you definitely came to the right place. Main floor living areas are perfectly decorated and furnished to invite you to put your feet up, kick back, and en-joy your getaway. Your only challenge

is having to pick which couch, chair or rocker to start with. 2nd floor bedrooms are elevator accessible and all uniquely designed with every comfort you could ask for including a wonderful verandah to enjoy the outdoor surroundings of your quiet getaway. Your day starts with a home cooked breakfast in the expansive modern country kitchen where you can just hang out around the center island and chat with other guests and owners Tom and Chris while they prepare your breakfast. It doesn’t get better than this to appreciate the welcome feeling throughout the Inn. And yes, the breakfast eggs are fresh from the on-site resident chickens. And their breakfasts are amazing. Your on-site day can be spent at the pool (in season), walking the grounds to enjoy the lake where fishing can be done, a small shooting range in the back of the property. Try a visit with Belle Fleur- the resident horse. Carrots are always welcome. You can help feed the chick-ens. And you can kick back with a good book in the many well-appointed first floor living rooms, or on the expansive front porch complete with rocking chairs, Off site, St. Simons and Jekyll Islands are a short hop away and are some of the best beaches you will find on the east coast. Local upscale restaurants are abundant and within short driving distance. But we do recommend the dinners at the Inn as well. For golfers, their Stay and Play package includes golf at Sanctuary Cove Golf Club which is only 8 minutes away. If you haven’t played there, it is a must play and is as good as it gets for every golfer’s playing level. The only other challenge you need to prepare for is leaving. It’s tough to do although you can always go back for more. For additional in-formation, visit their website at www.horsestampinn.com.

The Horse Stamp InnA wonderful B&B with a terrific

Stay and Play package

By Stephen Trendler

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The Villas of Grand Cypress, located

in the heart of Orlando, Florida, just

unveiled a $16 million renovation

of its new Villas. The legendary golf

resort spent four months transform-

ing its Club Suites and one-, two-, and

three-bedroom Villas. The renovations

were overseen by Florida-based interior

designer Lori Rapport, and showcase

spacious new guestrooms that offer

modern interiors and feature stream-

lined decor, natural materials and

neutral palettes that create a sense

of serenity and calm that mirrors the

natural beauty of the resort. The one

to three bedroom villas range be-

tween an expansive 1,150-square-feet

to 2,800-square-feet and all include

a living room, dining room, and fully

equipped kitchen, as well as a large

outdoor patio overlooking the fairways

or waterways (the resort offers 45 holes

of Jack Nicklaus’ signature golf design).

The living areas throughout the new

Club Suites and Villas are spacious,

inviting and residential in style. Fine

furniture in Italian and Mid-Century

Modern styles include American Leath-

er sofa sleepers and club chairs. Pulling

inspiration from the area’s surround-

ings, custom-designed woven carpets

from Axminister feature the magnified

lines of topographic maps that evoke

the natural landscape. Artwork includes

eye-catching original bronze sculptures,

custom chandeliers and expressionist

designs. Select villas offer sleek dining

room tables generously sized for ten

and gas-lit fireplaces. Oversized base

moldings, doors and window cas-

ings are framed by natural American

Walnut. Stylish beds with upholstered

headboards illuminated by ambient

bedside lighting are inviting with el-

egant bedding and plush pillows.

Fore more information and reserva-

tions: www.grandcypress.com.

Legendary Golf Resort Unveils Renovations

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Tampa’s Saddlebrook Resort, well-known for its 45 tennis courts in every Grand Slam surface and the tennis pros who train there, is set to match the tennis facilities and receive praised for its new Golf Training Center. Saddlebrook Golf Academy’s new 20-acre Golf Training Center is now open for play. It encompasses playing practice of every element of the game, with multi-faceted training areas where golfers may enjoy lessons or may choose to score themselves and rotate through the many practice sites and stations which simulate golf course play. The Training Center’s East Tee has multiple hitting stations on a driving range area which allows hitting over 300 yards. It also features a large fairway bunker as well as specially designed mounds to practice every type of uphill and downhill shot. The East Tee also has the Arnold Palmer designed Scoring Zone with a 10,000 square foot green, a bunker and multiple chipping areas. The Lesson Tee is designed for group or private lessons to practice shots to multiple target greens. A 14,000 square foot Tif-Eagle putting green, as well as a 5,000 square foot Wedge Green with multiple levels and two green-side bunkers, designed by K.J. Choi, are part of the Lesson Tee area. The area also has a 7,000 square foot Chipping Green with multiple mounding and two green-side bunkers also designed by K.J. Choi. This area enables practice of every shot in the short game, from bunker shots and chipping to putting, and from every angle and lie 360 degrees around the green. The West Tee covers one acre

including multiple hitting stations to multiple target greens with fairway bunkers, with hitting up to 300 yards. Featured on the West Tee is a red clay teaching area, designed by K.J. Choi for use in his training regime to perfect ball contact and golf swing. The resort’s golf academy is home to BannLynch Golf, led by Steve Bann and Dale Lynch, known as the number one coaching team in the world, offering the most comprehensive player development and instructional programs to golfers of all abilities. Steve Bann and Dale Lynch developed juniors into current PGA TOUR players to include Geoff Ogilvy, Aaron Baddeley, Stuart Appleby, and also coach K.J. Choi. The BannLynch Master Instructors work with adults and juniors at the new Training Center as well as on one of the resort’s two Arnold Palmer signature courses. Junior golfers are welcome year-round for week-long golf camps, where they train with BannLynch Master Instructors, play on the resort’s golf

courses and also meet junior athletes from all over the world. Juniors who want to pursue golf during the school year, have the opportunity of enrolling in Saddlebrook Preparatory School, a fully-accredited, college preparatory school for junior golfers and tennis players. The prep school offers boarding and non-boarding programs which allow student-athletes to pursue both a rich academic curriculum and train in their favorite sport every afternoon. Saddlebrook is 30-minutes north of Tampa International Airport, one mile east of I-75 at exit 279.

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improving performance

Golf is a difficult game. We all seek that unbridled joy of consistently hitting the ball long and straight. Golfers rarely experience the elusive feel of a fluid swing, let alone implant it in their muscle memory. At a recent media event, I tried an innovative product called the Swing Jacket. I was very impressed because it’s the only product I’ve ever tried that physically guided me through a connected, on-plane swing, much like those you see on Tour. It was literally teaching my body what a fundamentally correct swing should feel like while I was hitting balls. For me, it was an AH HA moment. Efforts to improve my swing in the past often took a lot of time and led to frustration when I couldn’t seem to get it. With no assurance the time was going to be well spent it discouraged me from putting in the work. The toughest part for me was figuring out how to implement a swing change. All too often I’d deal with one thing and something else would go awry. As I stood on the range hitting balls with the Swing Jacket, it occurred to me that all I ever really wanted was to feel the correct motion. It was an enlightening experience because I didn’t have to focus on improving any part of my swing. I was hitting balls wearing this

contraption, but I could instantly tell that my swing was different, more in control with a better ball flight. I could feel the swing. Praise for the Swing Jacket is everywhere. Golf Magazine awarded Swing Jacket Four Stars, whose equipment editors wrote, “The jacket is particularly good for golfers who come over the top. It’s worth trying.” The magazine quoted Scott McCarron stating, “The Swing Jacket taught me how to swing the club down properly from the top with my body…I’m swinging on a better plane now…I’m definitely hitting the ball much

straighter.” Equipment guru Rick Young found, “The Swing Jacket flat out works and users will see a massive benefit. It was a godsend for me. The key to the Swing Jacket is the level of consistency it can ingrain into your golf swing. “ The Swing Jacket corrects problems by allowing any golfer to experience what a great swing actually feels like. “Scott Johnson, (Seattle Wa) boasted, “I tried the Swing Jacket. It took 15 minutes of half swings to get comfortable. I started hitting the ball right at the target. The next day I shot 74 at my home club, hitting 14 greens. I again practiced one afternoon and

shot 75. The two best rounds of the year! This is the best training aid I’ve ever tried!” Noted instructors confirm the product’s effectiveness. Dan Pasquariello, Associate Director of the Pebble Beach Golf Academy wrote “You folks have created the best learning device that I have ever encountered, since it does allow the student to feel the correct motion and gives them immediate feedback. In this case, the feel is real.” The company confirms more than 50 Tour players have used Swing Jackets. Whether you are an experienced player looking to refine your swing or a raw beginner who

wants to develop sound fundamentals right out of the gate, Swing Jacket could be the fastest, easiest way to the improvement we all seek. Swing Jacket offers a risk-free “Great Swing Guarantee.” If you’re not hitting the ball longer, straighter and more consistently, just return it for a refund. Looking to improve your game quickly and easily? Swing Jacket is worth trying. Use coupon code FGC613 to get your discount, bonus items valued at $180 plus free shipping To buy your Swing Jacket at a 20% discount or for more information visit www.swingjacket.com/finkel or call 877-219-6124.

By Leonard Finkel

An Easier Way to Better GolfCan Latest Technology Groove Your Perfect Swing?

“Before I used the Swing Jacket, I had never broken 80. I broke 80 fifteen times last summer and almost shot par. The Swing Jacket has turned my game around and dropped my handicap from 18 to 10”– Bernie Nault (Calgary, Canada)

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There is truth to the statement, “It’s

not if you win or lose, it’s how you

play the game.” But it’s more fun to

win. Isn’t it?

Adults have a saying, “A bad day on

the golf course is better than a good

day at work.” But it’s even better to

have a good day on the golf course.

Isn’t it?

Yes, trying your hardest on every

shot when you’re playing badly

builds character. But I’d rather feed

my confidence by hitting good shots.

Wouldn’t you?

Two days after holding off a de-

termined Palm Desert High School

team, our La Quinta Blackhawks golf

team again beat the Aztecs to com-

plete an undefeated Desert Valley

League season. “We’ve been working

hard and we’ve been playing well

most of the time,” La Quinta head

coach John Shelden said after this

team’s 191-205 victory over the Az-

tecs. “They grew up a lot this week.

It was great they got to play some

really tough competition.”

The 14-shot win on the front nine

of SilverRock Resort, the Blackhawks’

home course, gave La Quinta a 14-0

record in league dual matches. Palm

Desert finished 12-2, the only losses

coming back-to-back to La Quinta

this week.

Coach Shelden continued, “The

Blackhawks were very consistent on

a breezy day at SilverRock, producing

three scores under 40. Medalist for

the match was La Quinta’s J.J Qual-

kenbush with a 1-under 35.” “I’ve

just been playing really good lately,”

Qualkenbush said, who birdied the

difficult ninth hole. “I played aggres-

sively today and it paid off.”

That was my quote for the local

newspaper but between me and

you, all the work that I put into

my game for the past few years

is paying off and there’s nothing

like “THE THRILL OF VICTORY!”

By JJ Qualkenbush

The Thrill of Victory

Jay Golden and JJ Qualkenbush

Page 31: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Inner CoreHigh-energy titanium core made of a poly-butadiene rubber compound blend. Molded to create superior feel, durability and elasticity.

Outer CoverTTranslucent soft durable and stain-resistant Surlyn® cover provides soft feel in and around the green.

Dimple DesignThe patented 482-dimple design optimizes trajectory, distance and spin while providing optimal control.

Compression and Spin Rate90 compression Medium spin rate

Colors Electric Green and Galactic Gold

Price $42 per dozen

Chromax’s High Visibility Technology Metallic layer helps reflect sunlight providing excellent visibility in all lighting conditions allowing golfers to easily track the ball in flight and on the course. The illuminating color assists golassists golfers in seeing the line and improves putting.

New

Approved by USGA and complies to R&A rules

Never Out of Sight!

High-energy Large Titanium Core

High Visibility Technology Metallic Layer

Translucent Soft Surlyn Cover

chromaxgolf.com 303-219-0868 [email protected]

Chromax Metallic Golf BallsDISTANCE

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The Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development 2nd Annual 100 Hole Marathon Fundraisers

The nonprofit’s 2013, “Little Golf, Big Purpose” events to be played at six prominent Orlando area courses to raise funds for future expansion. New local program locations added as well including the Deltona Club.

”We are very excited about our up-coming 100 hole marathon series and scholarship fundraiser program” says PGA Golf Professional Brendon Elliott, Founder of The Little Linksters Associa-tion for Junior Golf Development. “In our first year as a 501c3 we made some tremendous strides forward” Elliot says. In 2012, the nonprofit received a grant from the Florida State Golf As-sociation License Plate Program as well as the Barbara & Jack Nicklaus Junior Golf Endowment fund which is admin-istered by the PGA Foundation. It also had other donations come their way in 2012 including a sizable check from the Eric Baker Fund which is administered through the Orlando Golfweek Ama-teur Tour. “It was very encouraging to have the support of these organizations and companies in 2012 and we were so very grateful. After last year’s 100 hole marathon and nearly $13,000 raised we are very hopeful that we will be able to have a very, very fruitful go at it in our 2013 campaign” Elliott adds. Participants will pledge to play 100 holes of golf at any of the locations listed above. All those interested in playing will register through the http://littlelinksters.org/home/little-linksters/website. Once registered, a participant will create their own personal fund-raising showcase page. On this page they will find tools that will help them broadcast to the world their fundrais-ing efforts and channel folks to their fundraising page where donations can be made. It is suggested that emailing friends, family and co-workers and broadcasting through social media is the best way to direct traffic to a participant›s personal page. Donors will be able to contribute with credit card or Paypal directly to the participant and this cause. All money collection, thank you letters, and tax receipts are handled automati-cally online. All they need to do is go play some golf! All donations are 100% tax deductible and all donors will re-

ceive a tax receipt and thank you letter automatically through the website. The fee for participation is $0 for anyone raising over $1,000. Otherwise the fee will be $65 at Orange Lake Re-sort or $115 at all other facilities. These fees must be paid by way of making a starting donation in the appropriate amount to the participant›s personal fundraising page. Top fundraisers can earn great priz-es. Last year the prizes included but were not limited to: a two hour private lesson with Sean Foley, signed Tiger Woods memorabilia, PGA Tour event ticket packages, PGA Championship weekly ticket packages, equipment from Nike and STX, rounds of golf and much more. Prizes for 2013 are posted on the http://littlelinksters.org/home/little-linksters/ website. “We are also adding a Scholastic Golf Team fundraiser component as well as a new Little Linksters Scholar-ship Program fundraiser as part of our offers through www.LittleLinksters.org this year.” Added Elliott. You can log onto: http://littlelinksters.org/home/little-linksters/rules-of-participation/ for more details or e-mail [email protected].

The Events

The “Little Golf, Big Purpose” 100 Hole Marathon had its inaugural event in 2012 at Orange Lake Resorts

Legends Walk course. For 2013, the fundraising effort will grow to a six event “series” which will benefit the

Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Develop-ment. The marathons will be played at the following

Central Florida courses: June 17th - Harmony Golf Preserve June 30th - Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes July 7th - Reunion Resort July 8th - Heathrow Country Club July 22nd - West Orange Country Club July 28th - Orange Lake Resort - Legends Walk Course

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The World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum celebrated the arrival of five more members on Monday. Masters and PLAYERS champion Fred Couples, Eu-ropean Tour and Ryder Cup superstar Colin Montgomerie, two-time Open Championship winner Willie Park, Jr., former European Tour Executive Direc-tor Ken Schofield and U.S. Open cham-pion and broadcast legend Ken Venturi were inducted at the annual Induction Ceremony.The evening’s events were held at World Golf Village, with the Ceremony at the St. Johns County Convention Center and the Gala afterward within the Hall of Fame. The Ceremony, which kicks off THE PLAYERS Championship week, will air on Golf Channel on Mon-day at 10 p.m. ET.“It is an honor to welcome the Class of 2013,” said Jack Peter, Chief Operating Officer of the World Golf Hall of Fame. “The accomplishments of this group, both on and off the course, are remark-able. We are thrilled to have them in the Hall of Fame family and are proud to tell their wonderful stories.”The Class of 2013:

Fred Couples – PGA TOUR BallotCouples is one of the game’s most popular players and revered for his pic-turesque golf swing. It carried him to the top of the game, winning the 1992 Masters Tournament and becoming the first American player to reach No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking. He dominated in the early 1990s, winning PGA TOUR Player of the Year and the Vardon Trophy in 1991 and 1992, on his way to 15 career PGA TOUR wins.

Couples is also a fixture for the United States in team competitions. He played on five Ryder Cup teams, helping the Americans to victories in 1991 and 1993. The Presidents Cup has been another important competition for Couples – he played on four U.S. Teams, with three emerging victorious. He also captained the winning U.S. Presidents Cup teams in 2009 and 2011 and will once again lead the Americans at the 2013 Presidents Cup at Muirfield Village.

Colin Montgomerie – International BallotMontgomerie was The European Tour’s top player in the 1990s, leading the Order of Merit a record seven times in succession from 1993-99. He captured another Harry Vardon Trophy in 2005. The Scot won 31 European Tour titles

– a record by a British player – and, in total, 40 tournaments worldwide. Despite that success, his impact may be even greater on the Ryder Cup. In eight successive Ryder Cup appear-ances from 1991, Montgomerie helped Europe to five victories while creating an unprecedented record of being un-beaten in the singles with a 6-0-2 mark. He went on to captain the European Team, which regained The Ryder Cup at The Celtic Manor Resort in 2010.

Willie Park, Jr. – Veterans CategoryPark is one of the Open Champion-ship’s most distinguished players, win-ning in 1887 and 1889 while compiling 12 top-10 finishes in golf’s oldest major. Park, whose father Willie, Sr. is also in the Hall of Fame, used his prowess as a player as a springboard to other facets

World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum welcomes theClass of 2013 at Induction Ceremony

Couples, Montgomerie, Park, Schofield, Venturi enter the Hall of Fame

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of the game. He did pioneering ball and club design, registering several patents. Park’s seminal 1896 book “The Game of Golf” was the first about golf written by a professional golfer. His widely acclaimed “The Art of Putting” was published in 1920.His lasting impact may be from his course design. He designed or modified more than 200 courses in Europe, the U.S. and Canada, including Sunningdale Golf Club outside of London, Maidstone Club in New York and Olympia Fields in Chicago.

Ken Schofield – Lifetime Achievement CategorySchofield pushed The European Tour and the Ryder Cup to new heights. He became The European Tour’s Executive Director in 1975. Under his leadership, the Tour grew from 17 official events to 45 official events with a prize fund of more than £106 million when he retired in 2004.Schofield initiated global expansion for

the game when he took The European Tour outside of the European continent for the first time in 1982 with the playing of the Tunisian Open. That began a struc-ture whereby the Tour positioned itself internationally with more opportunity and incentive for the players in first the major championships then the World Golf Championships. Schofield was also heavily involved in the decision to open the Ryder Cup up from Great Britain & Ireland to all of Europe, which was a ma-jor catalyst for that event becoming one of the biggest in the world.

Ken Venturi – Lifetime Achievement CategoryVenturi forged an iconic career in the game, both on the course and in the broadcast booth. As a player, Venturi won 14 times on the PGA TOUR. He made his most dramatic mark in the 1964 U.S. Open, where he overcame 100-degree temperatures at Congressional Country Club and severe dehydration to win his

major championship.After carpel tunnel syndrome forced him out of competitive golf, Venturi joined the CBS television team in 1968. It began a 35-year career that saw him become one of the most respected voices in the game. In 2000, he received the PGA of America Lifetime Achievement in Journalism Award. That same year, he captained the U.S. Team to victory in the Presidents Cup competition.The Class of 2013 brings the Hall of Fame’s membership to 146. Each of the five newest Inductees donated memo-rabilia from their standout careers for inclusion in the Inductee Exhibits at the Hall of Fame. They include a case in Shell Hall and a permanent space in the Member Locker Room. The exhibits will be open to the public on May 7.For more information about the World Golf Hall of Fame, the Induc-tion Ceremony or to learn more about the 2013 Class of Inductees, visit www.WorldGolfHallofFame.org

About the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum The World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum preserves and honors the history of golf and the legacies of those who have made it great. The Hall of Fame and Museum, located at World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla., serves as a steward of the game through engaging, interactive storytelling and exhibitions featuring artifacts, works of art, audio, video and photography significant to the history of golf and its members. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 nonprofit institution and is allied with 26 national and international golf organizations, including The European Tour, LPGA, the Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, The R&A and USGA. To learn more about the Hall of Fame or to lend support, visit www.WorldGolfHallofFame.org.

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On Top Of The World The years were 2005-2008 and the place was THE GOLF CHANNEL. If you watched regularly or even sporadically, you’ll remember seeing the infomercial for the “#1 Putter on the Champions Tour.” It was called the RIFE 2-BAR Putter. It was the first self-adjustable putter the golf industry had ever seen and it featured two stainless steel bars that you could switch out to adjust the weight of the putter to accommodate faster or slower greens, a Lie-Aline Cus-tom Fitting System that allowed you to self-adjust the lie angle of the putter to correctly fit your individual setup and a unique face with horizontal grooves that were said to “lift and press the ball forward into an instant forward roll.” It was the hottest putter on the market and its quick rise in popularity led to annual sales of $11 Million in 2008.

Where Did They Go By the end of 2009, however, with the economy stall-ing, RIFE struggled along with many other small to medium size golf companies and fought to keep its doors open. In fact for two years, 2010-2011, the company was dormant and many people were wondering what had happened to RIFE?

The Beginning Of The Comeback In November of 2011, successful businessman, Ben Zylstra purchased RIFE from its former group of investors and the reemergence of RIFE began. Zylstra re-launched RIFE and is cred-ited for turning the company around in

a MAJOR way. 2012 was a real turning point for RIFE. Zylstra decided to put full-time Tour Reps back on the PGA and Cham-pions Tours and it paid off in a big way. RIFE, who had already collected 50 victories on the Professional Golf Tours since 2004, captured wins on every Tour in 2012, including two Major Victories. Matt Kuchar – 2012 Players Championship (PGA TOUR) Roger Chapman – 2012 US Senior Open (CHAMPIONS TOUR)* MAJOR Shanshan Feng – 2012 LPGA Champion-ship (LPGA TOUR)* MAJOR Lee Williams – 2012 Mexico Open(NATIONWIDE TOUR) Steven Fox – 2012 US Amateur(US AMATEUR TOUR)

What Sets RIFE Apart What sets RIFE apart

from every other putter manu-

facturer

out there is its RollGrooveTM Technology Face. RIFE is the true innovator behind horizontal grooved face putter technology with a patent on specifically sized grooves since 1997. These precisely spaced grooves allow the putter to

gently press into the cover of the ball and grip and lift it into an instant for-ward roll. Just as grooves in irons help control spin so do grooves in a putter face. RIFE’s grooved face has become so popular that other putter companies like PING, TaylorMade, Bobby Grace and Bettinardi are trying to imitate this technology. However, the patented spac-ing of the grooves is the TRUE key to the gripping and lifting effect of RIFE’s grooved face putter technology. Hori-zontal RollGrooveTM faced putters create the truest “no skid” roll in golf no matter where you hit the ball on the putter face.

New VAULT.001 Series In 2013, RIFE introduced its new VAULT.001 Series of putters which just recently won a Golf Digest Hot List Award. There are 6 new models in the Vault.001 Series; the Legend, which is a tribute to RIFE’s original 2-Bar Mallet Putter and retains the stainless steel interchangeable weight bars that put RIFE on the map. The Iconic, which is a traditional blade style putter with a plumbers neck. The Phenom is a belly length blade style putter with a goose

neck that makes it ideal for those who arc their swing path. The

Prodigy, which is part of RIFE’s Bi-Metal Series, is a mid-mallet with a steel face and body that is complimented

by an aluminum chassis that provides extraordi-

nary feedback on im-pact. The Titan, a full size

mallet and also a Bi-Metal blend of steel and aluminum, and the Hero, which is a whole new take on a

...Don’t Call It A Comeback!

Page 37: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

37Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2 37

The V MOTION TOUR is a 3-piece premium ball designed for golfers who demand Tour Level performance and playability. It features a cast urethane cover for high spin along with a compensating speed core for distance. It is built to compete with the best golf balls on the market and it does. The V MOTION received a 2011 Golf Digest Hot List Award including 4 stars in the Performance and Innovation cat-egories. The target audience of the V MOTION is lower handicap golfers looking to improve their game and to reduce their costs as well as mid handicap golfers who want a better ball at a mid-price point. This golf ball competes against the Titleist ProV1 and TaylorMade Penta but costs about $12.00 LESS. Price: $32.95 per dozen

RIFE has also introduced its new V MOTION TOUR and E MO-

TION golf balls for 2013

The E MOTION is a 3-piece surlyn perfor-mance ball, designed with a Progressive Motion Dual Core to fly farther, spin faster, and feel softer all while offering great durability. The E MOTION just received a 2013 Golf Digest Hot List Award as well. The proprietary Aeroblend Cover features Aerocontrol parallel dimple dividers that smooth airflow for increased flight distance and stability while roll promoting dimples enhance putter feel and confidence. RIFE’s engineering team has designed this ball to be the best ball for all weather conditions and to offer you a tour caliber ball with excel-lent durability at a very affordable price. Price: $19.95 per dozen

Page 38: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

38 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

Lee Williams

ShanShan Feng

Roger ChapmanSteven Fox

Matt Kuchar

Page 39: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

39Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Bi-Metal blade style putter that features a unique sight line that connects the top line to the tail and provides a visual break between the two materials. All of RIFE’s putters feature their patented RollGrooveTM Technology Face and are available at Edwin Watts, Golfsmith and other stores and shops where profes-sional equipment is sold.

Back On Top RIFE is back on top in the golf world and just recently celebrated another victory on the Champions Tour when Esteban Toledo used his RIFE Island Series Aruba putter to win a three way playoff at the 2013 Insperity Championship. “I met Esteban at the final event of the 2012 Champions Tour season in San Antonio,” said Jim Barfield, V.P. of Tour Operations for RIFE Golf. “He picked up one of our Island Series Aruba putters and couldn’t put it down. He said he loved the way the ball came off the grooves on the face of the putter. It’s been in his bag ever since.” This story about Toledo falling in ‘love at first sight’ is not unusual. In fact, if you roll a few putts with a RIFE putter, don’t be surprised if you’ll believe in, “RIFE FOR LIFE!” For more information on RIFE Golf or their product lineup for 2013 visit their

website at www.Rife-Golf.com.

Esteban Toledo

Page 40: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 240

live g

olfBy Joel Jackson, FGCSA Communications Director

Photos by Joel Jackson

”All-In-One“ Beach Getaway For GolfersMy Favorite

If you are interested in taking a get-away this summer, you should con-sider heading to The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Set on 125 lush acres, complemented by seven miles of pristine white sandy beach, the resort is Southwest Florida’s only beachfront resort with an on-site championship golf course, a world-class spa, and an award-winning tennis center. Mak-ing it even more appealing, the resort completed a $5 million renovation in January 2013, which followed an im-pressive $40 million spent by the resort over the last five years. The multi-phase project included the renovation and remodeling of the resort’s 317 guest rooms and suites, enhancements to the golf course, the renovation and expan-sion of The Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, and the addition of a beautiful beach-front pool complex (with two pools, two whirlpools, a pool bar with food service, restrooms, locker facilities, and a pool shop). Want more reason to visit? The resort is offering the 3rd night free from May 28 – September 30, 2013, based on availability, with holiday weekends excluded. For holiday weekends the

resort is offering the 4th night free. For more information or for reservations, call (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222 and ask for the “3rd Night Free Promotion.” Blackout dates may apply, and the pro-motion may not be combined with any other offer. Also, the promotion is not applicable to groups. Rich in hospitality and tradition, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has resided on the Southwest coast in Naples since 1946. Owned and oper-ated by the Watkins family for three generations, the resort features: 1,000 feet of white-sand beach; the 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course; the world-class spa; a fitness center (with complimentary admission for guests); the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center with six Har-Tru courts; Beach Kids Club, a complimentary recreational program for children ages five to 12; an Orchid House, home to over 3,000 tropical plants; retail shops; and beach rentals. The resort also features multiple restaurants and lounges, including: the signature beachfront HB’s on the Gulf; Broadwell’s, providing panoramic views of the golf course; and the Seminole Store, which serves deli sandwiches, ice cream, gourmet coffees and a variety of

freshly baked pizza, pastries and des-serts in a café atmosphere. The resort’s recently renovated Sunset Beach Bar & Grill is consistently named “Best Place To View A Southwest Florida Sunset,” and was named “Naples’ Best Beach Bar” by Travel Channel. Situated just blocks from Naples’ renowned shopping districts of fashion-able 5th Avenue South and historic 3rd Street South, the resort is also within minutes of shopping at Venetian Vil-lage, Waterside Shops, Bayfront and Tin City. Guests can also experience the area by taking tours of the Everglades, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Cork-screw Swamp, The Botanical Gardens, or the Conservancy Nature Center. Boat and fishing trips also can be arranged at the hotel. Other leisure time activi-ties can include Naples’ outstanding museums, theatres, and art galleries. Providing a comfortable, friendly at-mosphere, the resort is an exceptional tropical getaway. Resort guests benefit from no resort fees, and complimen-tary self and valet parking. The resort is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North in Naples, Florida. Contact the resort at (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, or visit www.NaplesBeachHotel.com.

Page 41: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

41Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Tim Hiers, (left in blue shirt and khaki pants give U.S. EPA regulators and Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection regulators a tour of his Old Collier GC maintenance facility. For the past 16 years the Florida GCSA has been part of the Annual Spring Regulator Tour, a one-week tour of Florida Ag and Green Industry operations including plant nurseries, sod farms, cattle ranches, dairy farms, row crop farms, citrus groves and sugar cane farms to get regulators from out behind their desks and see some of the real world.

From left) Todd Lowe of the Florida USGA Green Section presents Quail West CC superintendent Mark Black with the 2013 Irv Grainger Award for 25 years of service on the Florida USGA Green Section Committee. The USGA Green Section conducts turfgrass research and golf course conditioning evaluation visits to USGA member courses.

(From left) Ralph Dain, the GCSAA Regional Representative for Florida and Darren Davis, GCSAA Director and superintendent at the Olde Florida GC in Naples, made a presentation about GCSAA resources and member benefits to a group of Central Florida Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at the Orange County Sportsman Association in April.

Page 42: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 242

Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

playe

r profi

le

Mike McBath graduated from

Penn State University in 1968 with a

Bachelor’s Degree in Managment. Ex-

celling in both academics and sports,

he was invited to play in the pres-

tigious Senior Bowl College All-Star

Game. Impressed with his skills, Mike

was drafted by the Buffalo Bills. Dur-

ing his time as a player, Mike earned a

Master’s Degree in Economics from

the University of Florida.

At the conclusion on his football

career, Mike turned his sights and

talents to Wall Street and for 38 years,

has been a Financial Advisor at UBS

Financial Services. While enjoying

a successful career as a Financial

Advisor, however, he could not let his

entrepreneurial spirit rest. Mike started

the Orlando Predators, one of the most

successful franchises in Arena Football

history.

Mike is also very involved in the

community and has worked with

numerous organizations. In 2000, the

Clermont YMCA honored Mike as «Man

of the Year» for his charity work and

fund- raising. Much of this fund-raising

was the direct result of NFL Celebrity

golf outings.

As a former player, Mike has taken

a very active role with the NFL Players

Association (NFLPA) and has been a

member of the National Steering Com-

mittee for nine years. He started a Cen-

tral Florida chapter for retired NFL

players and was awarded the NFLPA›s

«National Award of Excellence.” That

same year, Mike was elected President

of the NFL Retired Players Association›s

3600 player membership.

After serving as President, Mike›s

commitment to the NFLPA did not end.

In 2008, Mike was elected to a two year

term as President of the Central Florida

Retired NFLPA chapter. After his first

successful two year term ended, he was

unanimously re-elected for another

two year term. During this period, he

was chosen to go to Washington to

speak to Congress.

Mike is presently very proud to be

the first former player to be elected to

the NFL Former Players Board of Direc-

tors for a 4th term. Present and former

NFL players as well as the ‘community’

of Central Florida, have been blessed by

the efforts of Mike McBath.

By Jay Golden, PGA

Hail To Michael McBath!

Page 44: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

44 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

comp

etiti

ve sp

irits

Nominate your favorite bartender to showcase his/her signature drink with a recipe and photos. Readers will also find a discounted price for that drink so they can visit the bartender to sample the true taste of the libation.

Grey Goose Original 19th HoleIdeal For: after dinner, afternoon, casual friends, cocktail hour, night cap, special occasion.

Mixing Skill: EasyFlavor Profile: Citrus, Dry

A toast to golf’s ultimate destination, this delicious cocktail com-bines the Word’s Best Tasting Vodka with a burst of fresh citrus. Ingredients: 2 Parts GREY GOOSE® Original 2 Parts Orange Juice 2 Parts Pineapple Juice 1 Part Lemon-Lime Soda Mix GREY GOOSE® Vodka with pineapple and orange juices.

Top with lemon-lime soda and present with a lemon slice.

Page 45: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2 45

competitive spirits

GREY GOOSE®, the “World’s Best Tast-ing Vodka” is pleased to announce its continuing collaboration with profes-sional golfer and five-time PGA tour winner Matt Kuchar. Kuchar serves as an official spokesperson for the GREY GOOSE golf program, a leading consumer activation platform for the brand. “GREY GOOSE Vodka has main-tained a long-standing commitment to excellence and a strong presence in the golf arena. Our brand is honored to work with such a stellar athlete,” said Michelle D. Beauchamp, Brand Director of GREY GOOSE at Bacardi USA. “Matt Kuchar’s sportsmanship, athleticism and competitive drive represent the best of the sport.” The partnership also marked a new and exciting era of “GREY GOOSE 19th Hole,” a GREY GOOSE ENTERTAIN-MENT® original television program that debuted exclusively on the Golf Channel. Kuchar appeared on the pre-mier episode of the series in January of last year and has represented the brand in all facets of its golf program including retail point-of-sale, meet-and-greet sessions at events and the development of GREY GOOSE Collec-tion golf gear. “As a longtime fan of

GREY GOOSE off the course, I am really excited about continuing to be part of the GREY GOOSE family and represent-ing the ‘World’s Best Tasting Vodka’ as an official spokesperson,” said Kuchar. “I am proud to be affiliated with GREY GOOSE as the leading premium vodka brand continues its longstanding alli-ance with golf.” Known as the all-American family man with a striking smile and whole-some demeanor, Kuchar has demon-

strated arguably the most consistent golf performance on the course since 2009. He is one of only two golfers to have had 20 top-ten finishes in 2010 and 2011, and is the winner of five PGA Tour events. Most recently, Kuchar cel-ebrated his first World Golf Champion-ship victory; defeating Hunter Mahan in the final of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in February. Kuchar holds an impressive reper-toire of high-profile victories. In 2010, he won the PGA’s Vardon Trophy and the PGA Tour’s Byron Nelson Award, both recognizing the player with the lowest scoring average, as well as the PGA Tour’s Arnold Palmer Award for leading the money list in 2010. In December of 2011, Kuchar was a member of the victorious United States Presidents Cup and World Cup teams. In 2012 he won The Players Champion-ship, the flagship event of the PGA.

GREY GOOSE® Vodka and Flavored VodkasSIP RESPONSIBLYwww.GREYGOOSE.com©2013 GREY GOOSE AND THE GEESE DEVICES ARE TRADEMARKS AND/OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS. IMPORTED BY GREY GOOSE IMPORTING COM-PANY, CORAL GABLES, FL. VODKA 40 % ALC. BY VOL.; FLAVORED VODKAS 40 % ALC. BY VOL.- DISTILLED FROM GRAIN.

GREY GOOSE® The World's Best Tasting VodkaSigns Top-Ranked Pro Golfer Matt Kuchar To Represent Brand

This Relationship will kick-off the re-launch of “GREY GOOSE 19th Hole” on Golf Channel

Page 46: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 246

Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

fore y

our h

ealth

Edith Strub, a six year resident of Del Webb Stone Creek in Ocala , looks out every day at the rolling hills, tree-lined streets, pleasant homes and smiling neighbors knowing that one day she’ll likely give it all up. Strub suffers from Retinitis Pigmentosa, an incurable degenerative eye disease that could eventually result in her blindness. But Strub won’t let that stop her from her daily exercise regiment. She is determined to improve her fitness everyday. “Edith is an inspiration to

me,” says Judy Helfin, fitness director at the Elan Spa at Del Webb Stone Creek. When Strub moved to Del Webb Stone Creek six years ago, one of her first stops was the fitness center. “She began exercising from the start,” Helfin said, “And she has been devoted to it ever since.”When Del Webb Stone Creek opened its state-of-the-art Elan Spa five years ago, Strub was one of the first visitors, and she has been a regular since that time. “Edith’s eye disease causes progressive loss of vision, and eventually it could

affect her central vision,” Helfin explained. Diagnosed in 1974, Strub was still driving when she moved to Del Webb Stone Creek, but she has since been forced to give up that pleasure. Over the past several months she has noticed more progressive changes. But she won’t accept sympathy from anyone. “When I first met Edith a few months ago, I noticed she doesn’t want any special treatment,” Helfin observed, “She just wants to fit in, work out and feel good,” she said. “Fitness training is important to me to keep up my inde-pendence,” Strub explained. “Exercise helps me physically and mentally. I feel better, I think more clearly, and enjoy the rest of the day even more,” she said. Strub is something of a connoisseur of fitness clubs, and she prefers Elan Spa at Del Webb Stone Creek over all the others she has visited in Florida . “All the instructors and staff have been very accommodating for my special needs. They make me feel like I fit in,” Strub said. Del Webb Stone Creek is one of the largest Del Webb communities in the U.S. featuring Reflection Bay – an amenity center encompassing almost 50,000 square feet with fitness and event gathering areas – the Stone Creek Grille, Stone Creek Golf Club with an 18-hole championship golf course and a planned 29 acres of open space and common areas. Models are open daily for viewing.

Edith Strub Won’t Let Degenerative Eye Disease Slow Her Exercise Regimen

Page 47: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

New Greens Coming in 2013

Page 48: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

48 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Fairways for Warriors, an Orlando

based non-profit, hosted a golf clinic

for disabled military personnel at Eagle

Creek Golf Club on Wednesday, May 8.

LPGA Tour player Jacqui Concolino,

Golf Ambassador to the organization,

conducted the clinic. Concolino was

also recently named to the Board of

Directors of Fairways for Warriors

“This means a lot to me. These guys

served our country,” Concolino said.

“The very least that I can do is get in-

volved and try to give something back.

Golf has benefitted a lot of charities

through the years, and this is one that

I’m passionate about.”

Fairways for Warriors is dedicated

to providing a better quality of life to

wounded military service personnel

by teaching them to play the game of

golf. Through golf, Fairways for Warriors

strives to aid in the physical and emo-

tional rehabilitation of soldiers who

have fought for freedom.

Concolino, who will wear the Fair-

ways for Warriors emblem on her shirt

during LPGA Tour events this season,

worked one-on-one with wounded

service personnel before taking to the

course and participating with each

group during an afternoon scramble.

B.J. Jackson, Army Specialist, Ret., had

played golf for 21 years before being

wounded in action. His challenge is to

re-learn the game as a double amputee

and to help raise funds for and aware-

ness of Fairways for Warriors. “The

relationships that Jacqui is developing

and the time that she’s taken to help

us means so much to all of us,” Jackson

said. “This is something competitive

that we can still do on our own and

she’s helping us get better at that.”

Teaching professionals throughout

Central Florida have donated their time

and services to Fairways for Warriors,

including Kenny Nairn, Vice President

of Celebration Golf Management. Nairn

serves on the organization’s board of

directors and has been teaching Jacqui

since she was in her early teens.

“It’s all about giving back,” Nairn

said. “There is nothing better for me

than to have someone who plays the

game professionally educating and

helping our wounded personnel. And

it gives me even greater pleasure to

have one of my students involved with

Fairways for Warriors.”

For more information about Fairways

for Warriors and future events, please

go to www.fairwaysforwarriors.org.

Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

LPGA Pro Tutors Wounded VeterensConcolino Supporting Fairways for Warriors

All photos courtesy: Justin Cohen

LPGA Tour player Jacqui Concolino hits a drive during the Fairways for Warriors Scramble at Eagle Creek GC.

Jacqui Concolino will wear the Fairways for Warriors logo on her shirt during LPGA Tour events this season. Jacqui serves on the organization's Board of Directors.

Fairways for Warriors Golf Ambassador and LPGA Tour player Jacqui Concolino instructs B.J. Jackson, U.S. Army Specialist, Ret.

Page 49: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Page 50: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

50

head

er

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Donald James Ross was one of the

games more influential golf course

designers. Born in Scotland, we in

the United States were very fortunate

that he graced us with his presence

for most of his adult life. One of

Ross’s most famous designs is

Pinehurst No. 2, and his signature

crowned, or “turtle back” greens are

a trademark that makes every golfer

give greater attention to how and

where they hit their approach shot.

I had the pleasure of enjoying an

absolutely gorgeous day in May playing

the Donald Ross designed Belleview

Biltmore Golf Club. Snuggled neatly

inside the quaint community of Belleair

(near Clearwater), this 6614 yard

(from the tips) par 71 golf course was

in great shape, challenging, and fun.

My afternoon was further enhanced

by temperatures that hovered in the

high 70’s, with a persistent breeze that

made playing a bit more interesting,

and an engaging golf partner.

What else can you ask for…

maybe a round in the 70’s?

The front nine includes some

moderate length par 4s, one par 5

and two par 3’s that measure 180-

199 yards. My eyes were drawn

to the very visually appealing #6,

measuring only 338 yards from the

tips, it is a “thinking man’s” short

par 4. A dogleg right, with an attractive

pond on the left, and sand traps down

the right hand side, you have to pick

your line and consider how to “not” hit

it too long. I came off the tee great –

265 yard draw off the bunkers to the

left hand side of the fairway. You would

think – easy par, maybe even birdie. I

did say, “You would think”. That was

before the Donald Ross “turtle back”

- trouble behind the green curse took

over. Doesn’t it make you nuts when

it takes you 5 to get down from 70

yards? At least I recouped and birdied

the following hole, the par 5 – 7th. I

finished the front with a very nice, 38.

The back nine plays a little longer

than the front and includes two

par 5’s. The tee boxes and fairways

throughout the course were thick and

well maintained, which made the

experience even more pleasurable.

Donald Ross may have “built more” than 400 courses, but the Belleview “Biltmore” Golf Club is certainly one of a kind

duffe

r dan

By Bob Bolton

Page 51: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

51Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

My playing partner chipped in for

a very nice birdie on the par 3 – 12th,

while I birdied the par 4 – 16th. Number

17 is another “thinking man’s” par

4. Water on the left, dogleg left, with

a bunker staring you right in the face

down the right hand side of the fairway.

I fortunately avoided all of the pitfalls

of the hole, and felt lucky to do so.

The 18th hole, the #1 handicap hole on

the course, a 438 yard par 4, which from

the tee box looks right up the fairway to

the “Augusta like” white clubhouse was

tough playing right into a headwind. The

438 yard hole played like it was nearly

500. With sand traps on the left and a

pond on the right, I decided to play it

safe, lay up and hope to hit the one putt

for par. I took a 5, but finished with a 78,

and a great respect and appreciation for

the design and playability of the course.

I celebrated my sub-80 round with a

couple of adult beverages in the very

roomy and comfortable clubhouse, which

is a great destination for everything from

private functions to a casual lunch.

For more information about

the Club, or to book a tee time,

call 1-800-237-8947, or visit

www.belleviewbiltmoregolf.com.

Page 52: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

52

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Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

By Ted Bishop, PGA38th President The PGA of America

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

I can trace my life in golf back to a hardware store in Logansport, Ind. As a teenager, I bought a George Fazio7-iron there so that my friends and I could play between light poles at a local park. I didn’t play golf on an actual course until my dad helped me land a job at a local par-3, where I picked up a set of clubs and began to play. The opportunity to learn the game at my own pace while playing that small course opened the door to an enjoyable and rewarding career as a PGA Profes-sional and then to leadership opportu-nities with The PGA of America. Now as the organization’s president, I›m charged with helping our Profession-als introduce the game to people of all ages and abilities. Therefore, I’m very pleased that The PGA of America designates May as Wel-come to Golf Month. Free introductory lessons, clinics, bring-a-friend events and many other initiatives are avail-able to new golfers in May, and unique programs created by our talented PGA Professionals will be offered at indi-vidual courses as well. There is great opportunity in golf. For me, it became a career. But to others it can be a competitive sport, an enjoy-able hobby, tremendous exercise, a social activity or a personal passion.

The beauty of our game is that it can be played throughout life. I spend countless hours working on how The PGA of America can grow the game and how we can share the benefits of playing golf. I keep coming back to my own experiences in the lo-cal park and then the opportunity I was given by my father and his friend at the local par-3. I play golf and I love golf because I was able to learn the game in an environment that was right for me. PGA Professionals across the country are asked to create that environment for new players, and many of those ideas, programs and teaching tech-niques are shared throughout our asso-ciation every day. Golf is for everyone, and our organization demonstrates that through the programs it offers those interested in learning the game. There are national PGA of America programs for women and children as well as for players with challenging economic circumstances. There are programs such as Get Golf Ready for those who have never touched a golf club and those who gave up the game and would like to return. At the local level, individual PGA Professionals and golf courses host events and programs designed to make the game more fun and accessible every day.

My message to anyone interested in giving golf a try is that now is the time. If busy schedules stand in the way, inquire with a local PGA Professional about programs that require brief time commitments or are available through-out the year. While May is our “open house”, growing the game is our mis-sion 365 days a year. More than 40 years ago, my intro-More than 40 years ago, my intro-duction to golf didn’t include a full set of clubs or an actual golf course. Today, The PGA of America has taken promising steps towards improving the accessibility of golf so that opportunity exists for anyone to enjoy the game. As Welcome to Golf Month ap-As Welcome to Golf Month ap-proaches, I offer these simple words of encouragement: explore the opportu-nity to play golf, a game of a lifetime.. Visit www.playgolfamerica.com to

find programs in your area.

Welcome to GolfNew Year’s Resolution...

PLAY MORE GOLF IN 2013!

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Page 54: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

54 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

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Let’s set it up...It’s Friday, cut line +2 or +3. Zero chance of rain...It’s raining! Getting dark too! Rod at +3 with 3 holes to play and finishing on the front nine at Bay Hill. Rod comes to #7 and almost makes a hole in one! The ball ends up 10 ft past the hole. He makes the putt and heads to the tough #8. Getting dark and still raining. His drive ends up in fairway but on right side. He has to hit a draw around the trees and over the water. Knocks it on the green, 2 putts and heads to the long par 4, #9. Drive in fairway. Approach shot comes up just short in the bunker, semi-buried! Rod gouges it out to about 20 ft. At this point the scoreboard says projected cut is +2! We noticed a bunch of caddies standing around the 18th green and realized that he will set the cut line! He doesn’t know this, but if he makes par the cut will remain at +2. If he makes bogey, all the +3’s are in. You know what the caddies are hoping for! Rod misses putt and makes bogey. There is stunned silence from all the fans of Rod and Rod thinks he missed cut by one! 5 seconds after the putt drops, the scoreboard updates to projected cut +3! He’s in! Jubilation and relief! Rod Perry, Crane Lakes Golf & CC and 2012 PGA of America Player of the Year made the cut at The Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. While the cut line bounced from hole to hole, Rod made a dramatic putt on his 18th hole to secure his weekend and compete with the best! Rod needed 2 birdies on his final nine to reach the cut line and he made 2 on both of the tough par 3’s! Rod also competed at the Tampa Bay Championship the week before. It’s quite a feat for a club professional to make the cut in such an elite invitational field of PGA TOUR players because “these guys are good.” Well, so is Rod Perry! The Section is proud to have him live the dream of most club professionals. The North Florida PGA was on hand at the Arnold Palmer Invitational Pro Am on Wednesday, March 20 with PGA volunteer chaperones for each group. Our Members walk along with the players to assist with rulings, tips and conversation to make the day a bit more enjoyable for

the TOUR Players and amateurs. The PGA chaperones look forward to spending the day at Bay Hill assisting in this fun day for all. This unique touch is courtesy of our Members getting involved and giving back to the game they love. Thank you to

all who gave of their time.

Rod Perry Makes The Cut at Bay Hill

By Steve Morris

Bob Lynch,Rod Perry, and Lowell Thaler

PGA Tour Pro Brian Gay with his team of ama-

Page 55: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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CONTACT US TO REGISTER407.697.8058 | [email protected]

Page 56: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

56 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

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The North Florida Section is proud to announce that we are uniting with Reunion Resort as our new Homesite! This collaboration has been in the making for some time and it is now final. We are looking forward to our new relationship to grow the game and promote wellness! The Salamander Hotel & Resorts along with the ANNIKA Academy will now join forces with us to promote the game and realize the critical growth we need for our futures! We thank Salamander CEO & President Sheila C. Johnson and An-nika Sorenstam for helping us achieve our visions together. We are proud to announce that Annika Sorenstam is now a PGA Member, too! Thank you to our Executive Director/CEO Rich Smith for his passion and effort to make this happen! A historic and epic day for the North Florida PGA, our members and the game of golf! Visit nfpga.com for more details. April 26, 2013. A day that will be remembered in NFPGA history! It started with the press conference in the morning announcing our alliance with Reunion Resort as our new home-site and ended with our celebration in the evening! Fellow PGA Professionals, spouses, family & friends gathered Fri-day evening for our annual celebration and extravaganza. There were plenty of smiles, handshakes & hugs! It’s was wonderful to see the kinship and pride among our members. Congratulations to our Section Award Winners! They are:

PGA Professional of the Year, Bill Hughes, TPC Sawgrass. Teacher of Year, Steve Whidden, Rosedale CC. Horton Smith Award, John Hughes, Golf Digest Schools, Bill Strausbaugh Award, Bill Hughes. Junior Golf Leader, Brendon Elliott, Little Linksters. Patriot Award, Ken Juhn, Terrace Hill Golf. Player Development Award, Jon Johnson, The Downs Golf & Practice Facility. Merchandiser of Year Public, Mark Verkey,

Palmer Legends, The Villages. Merchan-diser of Year Private, Marc Carter, Old Memorial. Merchandiser of Year Resort, Kevin Baker, Reunion. Assistant of Year, David Williams, Dunedin CC. Sales Rep of Year, Gary Vanover, FJ. Amateur of Year, Brent Martineau, FOX 30 Jacksonville, Superintendent of Year, Duane VanEtten, Cypress Run. Senior Player of Year, Freddy Gibson, Golf ED. NFPGA Player of Year & 2012 PGA Professional Player of Year, Rod Perry, Crane Lakes.

Congratulations to our Hall of Fame Inductees! Boots Farley, Jeff Hollis, Craig Shankland and Craig Smith. Truly Leg-ends and mentors! Thank you to our presenting part-ners Pepsi, PGA National Resort and Re-union Resort. Thank you to BJ Jackson for his inspirational conversation about Folds of Honor and Patriot Golf Day. Of course GW ended the special day with some comedy and song! Thank you to all who attended. It was great to see

you all!

Sheila C Johnson, Annika Sorenstam, Rich Smith

Annika Sorentstam and Rich Smith

Annika Sorentstam

Annika is now PGA! For the Good of the Game, Together!

By Steve Morris

Page 57: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

57Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Rich Smith, Sheila C Johnson, Annika Sorenstam

Craig Smith (left) with Tony Johnson

Craig Shankland (left) with Tony Johnson

NFPGA Golf Professional of the Year: Bill Hughes (right) with NFPGA President Tony Johnson

North Florida PGA Board

Folds of Honor: Mr. BJ Jackson

GW Bush entertainingBoots Farley (right) with Tony Johnson

Player of the Year and National PGA Professional Player of the Year Rod Perry with Tony Johnson

Craig Smith (left) with Tony Johnson

Page 58: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Nancy Scranton earned her fifth ca-reer win today at The Legends Tour’s inaugural $225,000 Walgreens Charity Championship. The first-round leader fell behind in today’s final round, but scrambled on the back nine to win by one shot. The Illinois native carded rounds of 67-69 to finish at 8-under 136 to earn the winner’s check for $30,000. She edged out runner-up Jane Crafter of Australia, who posted rounds of 68-69 to finish one shot back at 7-under 137. “I was just really patient today,” said Scranton, who now lives in St. Augus-tine, Fla. “You never know which holes you’re going to birdie. I was fortunate to birdie holes 16 and 17 to get back in there.” Scranton rolled in birdie putts on hole Nos. 8 and 9, but stumbled with her only bogey on No. 13. That gave Crafter a chance to make a run at the leaderboard. The Australian toured the Nancy Lopez Legacy Course at The Vil-lages bogey-free today, while recording

birdies on holes 6, 9, 12 and 14. But Scranton, who celebrated a birth-day earlier in the week, joined Crafter in a tie for the lead when she birdied the par-4 16th hole. At No. 17, she laced a 5-iron to within a foot on the par-3 hole to set up her tap-in birdie. That putt gave her a one-stroke advantage heading into the final hole. Knowing she had to birdie the 18th hole for a chance to tie the lead, Crafter made a run with her 12-foot birdie attempt, but the ball didn’t drop. The Aussie tapped in for par to finish solo second. “I saw that I had a chance, but I didn’t put the best stroke on it,” said Crafter, who won the Legends Tour’s Fry’s Desert Classic team event in March with Hall of Famer Betsy King. “I was a little nervous over the birdie putt on 18, and I think I just misread it.” While Crafter’s birdie chance failed to drop on No. 18, Scranton layed up on the par-5 finishing hole and two-

putted for the win. “I didn’t know I was in the lead until I got up to the 18th green and saw that Jane was at seven under,” admitted Scranton. “Sometimes that’s the hard-est thing to do – to two-putt instead of just trying to make it for birdie.” Tied for third at 6-under 138 were Cindy Figg-Currier (70) of Texas, a three-time Legends Tour winner, and Sweden’s Liselotte Neumann, who fired the day’s low round of 6-under 66. Neumann is the 2013 European Solheim Cup Team Captain. Ohio’s Barb Mucha (69) and Wiscon-sin native Sherri Steinhauer (69) tied for fifth at 5-under 139. Weekend crowds of 22,000 in The Villages retirement golf community set a fan attendance record that hasn’t been matched since the Legends Tour’s inaugural event in 2000, in Green Bay, Wis. For complete tournament re-sults and more information, log on to www.thelegendstour.com.

Scranton Takes the Villages

Photos by Kay Bagwell

Page 60: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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In April 2010, the South Florida PGA Foundation created Smiling Fore Life, a program encouraging SFPGA Profes-sionals to visit local children’s hospitals weekly. These visits help bring golf into the lives of children who may be expe-riencing hardship, and it allows them an opportunity to forget about their challenges and enjoy a pleasurable new activity. A recent success story comes from our original location, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood. Joel, a 15 year old young man, had become a regular in the weekly program, always excited when it was golf time. After the SFPGA Foundation installed a put-ting green at the hospital last fall, this young man received a putter as a gift and could often be found practicing his putting, even during non-golf times. Dave Cunliffe, PGA Teaching Profes-sional at the Don Law Golf Academy, visits Joe DiMaggio weekly, and noticed that Joel had been absent for a few weeks. When he inquired about Joel, Dave learned that he had undergone a heart transplant and was not able to participate due to his recovery. Dave understood that when he was able to, Joel would be back at golf, and wanted to do something that would cheer him up and help him to get excited and ready to play. Dave decided to put to-gether a set of clubs for the young man. After a few weeks, while Joel still wasn’t healthy enough to participate in the class, he would go and watch his friends participate, just to be around the game he was learning to love. While presenting Joel with his new set of clubs, Dave was able to speak with him about PGA Tour Profes-sional Erik Compton, who has success-fully undergone 2 heart transplants, and is now a successful Tour Profes-sional. On April 23, Joel met Dave at Planta-tion Preserve Golf Course for his first outdoor golf lesson. Also on hand for the day, were a few signed gifts from Erik Compton, who wrote Joel an encouraging message about staying strong.

During his lesson, Joel built on the skills that he had learned at Smil-ing Fore Life, including aiming and distance control. He was also able to see how the real green differed from the hospital’s practice green in length, speed, and undulation. Dave and Joel stayed on the practice putting green to work on putting and chipping skills. After a few reminders about posture, grip, and alignment, Joel went to work. He was able to build on his consis-tency and saw improved ball control after only a short amount of time. “Joel has a real talent for the game, and was able to adjust quickly to the new sur-roundings” stated Dave. When asked what he thought about being at the course compared to his Smiling Fore Life lessons, Joel said “it’s a lot bigger!” Even though the sun was strong, Joel kept a smile on his face for the entire lesson. He’s feeling healthy and loving the ability to have a golf club back in

his hands. Before he left for the day, Joel asked his dad when he could come back to the course for more practice. One day a week just isn’t enough! Because of the South Florida PGA Foundation’s Smiling Fore Life pro-gram, Joel has found a new focus for his rehab, golf. Through this program, he has also found a new role model in Erik Compton, who has been through similar health struggles and has en-joyed success as a professional athlete. The Smiling Fore Life program has been able to impact juniors and their families, while giving them an enjoyable experience to look forward to every week. For more informa-tion on the program, please visit our website here. If you would like to be involved with or make a contribu-tion to the Smiling Fore Life program, please contact Meredith Schechter at

[email protected].

Smiling Fore Life Participant Hits the Links

Dave Cunliffe, PGA with Smiling Fore Life participant Joel

Page 62: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Twenty-nine golfers dedicated a day of

marathon putting and driving skills to

support the Doug Spencer 17th Annual

Golf Challenge on Friday, April 19,

2013, raising over $75,000

to benefit Coalition for

the Homeless of Central

Florida. The event took

place at Falcon’s Fire Golf

Club in Kissimmee. Golfers

challenged each other

for the most holes played

in five hours and the most money

collected for the Coalition. They raised

a minimum of $1,500 each, with their

donors pledging either a flat amount or

on a per-hole basis.

Again this year,

top fundraiser was event

namesake and chair,

Doug Spencer, President

of Spencer Consulting

Services and Coalition

for the Homeless Board

member, who single-

handedly raised $12,390 for his 102-

hole afternoon. Mike Schiappa of

Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) was next,

raising $8,210 for the cause. Other

major fundraisers included Neil Peroga,

also of HGV; Brian Wilson, partner at

Dellecker Wilson King McKenna Ruffier

and Sos law firm; and Tony King of

Zerion Group. Kevin Aust, of AECOM

topped the charts as to number of

holes played at 168 holes!

Coalition for the Homeless is

grateful to Golf Challenge corporate

sponsor Hilton Grand Vacations; event

sponsor Zerion Group; event and lunch

sponsor, Spencer Consulting Services;

dinner sponsor Stephens-Barrios;

beverage cart sponsor Tews Company;

as well as the golfers, supporters,

prize donors and hole sponsors for

their commitment to supporting the

programs and services that provide

homeless men, women and families

with children in Central Florida the

tools to return to self-sufficiency.

(Thomson Environmental manned

their hole all day!)

Golf Challenge for Homeless

(L to R) Golf-ers David Cross, Walter Nason, Fred Kittinger and Brian Wilson combine fun and serious fundraising at the Coalition for the Homeless marathon-style Golf Challenge.

17th Annual Golf Challenge Chair and name-sake, Doug Spencer, single-handedly raised $12,390 for the Coalition during his 102-hole afternoon. The event raised over $75,000.

(L to R) - Luis Llop, Dave Borer, Joe Harmer and Darell Bright - playing on behalf of Coalition commu-nity corporate partner Bright House Networks – enjoyed themselves while

Page 63: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

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Page 64: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

64 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

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Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort, a 2,478-villa vacation resort located in Kissimmee, will host the Bright House Networks Celebrity Golf Tournament on June 7 at their 18-hole Legends course, one of the resort’s four courses open for public play. The resort is pleased to play host to important fundraising events like this one, where local Orlando stars will tee off to improve the lives of families in Central Florida. Over the past 10 years, Orange Lake Resort has served as the host site to charitable golf tournaments that have raised more than $6 million towards important causes. From professional bowling Hall of Famer Norm Duke to Central Florida News 13’s reporter and anchor Allison Walker, celebrities from the world of sports and entertainment will rally together at the Celebrity Golf Tournament at Orange Lake Resort for a foursome tournament with on-course games, a putting contest and other surprises to benefit Kiwanis Club of South Lake. Kiwanis, through guidance

and example, works to develop future generations of leaders. The Kiwanians’ work goes towards revitalizing neighborhoods, organizing youth sports programs, tutoring, building playgrounds, and performing countless other projects to help children and communities. Jody Seifert, senior director of golf operations for Orange Lake Resort says, “The game of golf provides the perfect environment for conversation, camaraderie, decision and deal-making and networking. It’s an ideal ecosystem for fundraising because it’s entertaining and also easy on the eyes, especially at our resort where we keep the Legends course in pristine condition, year-round. We’re proud that our courses play a part in the fundraising strategy for local—and sometimes global— organizations.” Following the Celebrity Golf Tournament, on June 10 the resort will host the RCI Christel House Open for the 11th consecutive year to support the foundation’s mission of helping children around the world

break the cycle of poverty. Considered the largest multi-day charity golf tournament in the world, the Christel House Open is spread out across 14 tournament sites, with 11 played in the United States and three international – in Mexico, the United Kingdom and South Africa. For more information on

Orange Lake Resort’s golf courses and tournament services, please contact Kimberly Chase at kchase@orangelake.

com or visit OrangeLakeGolf.com.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations® at Orange Lake Resort Plays Host To Past Events Raising More Than $6 Million For Charitable Causes Through The Game of Golf

Upcoming Bright House Network Celebrity Golf Tournament to Benefit Families in the Central Florida Area

Page 65: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

TUSCAWILLA COUNTRY CLUB….MAKING YOUR SPECIAL DAYS

COME TO LIFE

Weddings and Rehearsal Dinners Birthday and Anniversary Parties Bar & Bat Mitzvahs Business Meetings Golf Outings And much more!

Call Linda, our Wedding and Event Specialist, at 407-366-1851, ext. 305 or [email protected] to reserve space for your Special Event!

Tuscawilla…Make Our Family, Part of Your Family 18-hole Joe Lee-designed Championship Golf Course Game improvement area with driving range, chipping green, bunker area, and practice putting green Nine lighted Har-Tru Clay Tennis Courts Jr. Olympic Swimming Pool, home of the 14-time Champion Tiger Sharks Swim Team Fully equipped, on-site Fitness Center Casual and Fine Dining with live entertainment And Much More!

GOLF, TENNIS AND SOCIAL MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE!

Ask about our 90-Day Trial Memberships with ReducedDues and Deferred Initiation Fees!

NEW!Introductory

TENNIS Memberships

Tennis and Dining Only $120/month

(One-Year Program)

1500 Winter Springs Boulevard • Winter Springs, FL 32708

www.tuscawillacc.comPhotos courtesy of Kelly Canova Photography

Contact Lindsay Kaye at (407) 366-1851, ext. 307 or [email protected] for a tour of the Club and

to become a member of our family today!

Page 66: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

66 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

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Turnberry Isle Miami, committed to providing guests with unforgettable, enriching experiences, invites travelers to take advantage of new golf pack-ages - Unlimited Golf and Couples Golf & Spa. Now available for booking, there’s never been a better time to discover Turnberry Isle Miami’s renowned golf, featuring two 18-hole courses designed by golf Hall of Fame recipient, Raymond Floyd. A golf-lover’s “Fairway to Heaven,” Unlimited Golf features18-holes of golf per night’s stay with green fees, cart fees and forecaddie fees included. For all additional replay and arrival-day rounds, players receive complimentary green fees. Guests looking to perfect their swing can take advantage of unlimited access to the resort’s practice facilities. Additional offers for this package include accommodations, golf club storage, daily buffet breakfast for two at Cascata Grill, overnight valet parking and 20% off any purchases made at the Retail Pro Shop. Rates starting at $224.50 per person per night (based on double occupancy) now through May 31 and October 1-December 21; starting at $145 per person per night June 1-September 30.

Couples Golf & Spa provides the “Par-fect” combination for couples to enjoy one 18-hole round of golf and pamper-ing at Turnberry Isle Miami’s Forbes-rated Four Star Spa & Fitness Center with a complimentary spa treatment. Couples Golf & Spa also features accom-modations, 20% off any additional spa services, daily buffet breakfast for two at Cascata Grill and overnight valet parking. Rates starting at $224.50 per person, per night (based on double occupancy) now through May 31 and October 1-December 21; starting at

$174.50 per person per night June 1-September 30. Additionally, guests can experience the Miller and Soffer courses with Fore the Love of Golf. This classic Turnberry Isle Miami package includes an 18-hole round of golf per night’s stay with greens fees, cart fees and forecaddie fees included, unlimited use of practice facilities, golf club storage and buf-fet breakfast for two at Cascata Grill. Rates starting at $209.50 per person, per night (based on double occupancy) now through May 31 and October 1-De-cember 21; starting at $135 per person per night June 1-September 30. Designed with a diverse range of elevation changes, contoured fairways, sharp changes within holes and strate-gically placed water features, Turn-berry Isle Miami’s golf courses provide a tropical, oasis-like setting, featuring varied flora and trees indigenous to the South Floridian climate. With one of the highest slope and course ratings in South Florida from the back tees, the Soffer Course is intended for champi-onship play. The shorter, yet equally challenging Miller Course is a classic resort spread. For more information, please visit www.turnberryislemiami.com or call 305-932-6200. Click here to learn the seasonal rates for these packages and view the restrictions.

Legendary resort features Unlimited Golf, Couples Golf & Spa and Fore the Love of Golf

Hole #18 Miller Course

Page 67: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Have a special event on the horizon? So do we.

Around here, non-members get the VIP treatment, too. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering or golf tournament, your special event will be well above par. For over 27 years our world-class amenities, award-winning restaurants and exceptional personal service have made us Seminole County’s premier Country Club.

FOR TOURS AND PERSONALIZED EVENT PLANNING: Contact Toni Curlin at 407.562.0172 or [email protected] Bridgewater Drive • Heathrow, Florida 32746 • www.heathrowcc.com

Weddings Corporate & Special Events Tournaments

HEATHROW EVENT AD-HIRES TO SPECS.indd 1 12/10/12 9:55 AM

Page 68: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

68 Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

Don’t forget to add the flag at the end of the article!!!

Double holes-in-one appear to be

a trend at Bonita Bay Club. Club

members Jim and Pat Ingledue each

aced the same hole of the Creekside

course on the same March day, and

Bonnie Speer made not one, but two

holes-in-one during an interclub match

at a neighboring Bonita Springs club in

November.

“The odds for the Ingledue feat

were 15 million to 1, but Mrs. Speer’s

holes-in-one equated to 67-million-to-1

odds,” said Bonita Bay Club Director of

Golf Mike Weiler. “All the aces created a

huge buzz around the club.”

Both Jim and Pat Ingledue used seven

irons, Jim from 158 yards and Pat from

108. This marked Jim’s second lifetime

hole-in-one and Pat’s fifth.

Speer’s holes-in-one were her first.

She has played golf for 55 years and

typically plays three or four times a

week.

Bonita Bay Club, located between

Naples and Fort Myers, boasts the

widest range of amenities of any club

in Southwest Florida. Three Arthur

Hills-designed courses within the

2,400-acre Bonita Bay community and

two courses by Tom Fazio at nearby

Bonita Bay Club Naples provide 90

holes of championship golf. The club’s

tennis and swim center has 18 Har-Tru

courts, a fitness center and one of the

most active tennis programs in the

region, directed by two United States

Professional Tennis Association master

professionals.

Bonita Bay Club was established in

1985, and members took ownership

in 2010. The club offers a limited

number of golf memberships to those

who live outside the community. To

learn more, call Membership Director

Dianne Rambo at 239-949-5036, or visit

www.bonitabayclub.net.

Hole-In-One Streak

Pat and Jim Ingledue at Bonita Bay Club Bonnie Spear at Bonita Bay Club

Page 70: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 270

produ

ct sh

owca

se➊ Volvik Vista iV The new 4-piece Vista iV from Volvik is one of the top new golf balls of the year. It was recently given a Golf Digest Hot List award and is in ply by 16 LPGA Tour players. So what makes this ball so good? For start-ers, it provides world leading technology with 12 world-wide patents and features a soft feel and longer distance achieved by a the world’s first patented dual core featuring a soft outer layer and a hard inner core. The Zirconium/Urethane outer creates optimal spin separation generated by the more solid inner core creates longer distance off the driver and long irons while the spin increases closer to the green due to the soft outer core, producing higher spin in short irons for total control. Available Yellow, Or-ange, Green and Pink, and is also available in White. www.volvik.com

➋ Bushnell Golf Tour Z6 Wingman Pack Bushnell Outdoor Products, makers of the No. 1 Laser Rangefinder on the PGA Tour for more than a decade, introduced the 2013 Tour Z6 Wingman Pack. Similar to Bushnell’s Tour v3 Patriot Pack, a portion of the proceeds for each Tour Z6 Wingman Pack goes to support the Folds of Honor Foundation (FHF). Since the original Patriot Pack launched in 2010, Bushnell has contributed more than $450,000 to the foundation, supporting the spouses and children of disabled or fallen soldiers. The Tour Z6 Wingman Pack is available immediately at retail and features Bushnell’s smallest, most technically advanced golf laser rangefinder – the Tour Z6. With its ultra-compact size and increased power, the Tour Z6 is engineered with Vivid Display Technology™ and E.S.P.™ technologies. In addition to the Tour Z6, the Wingman Pack comes equipped with a limited edition Bushnell Golf/FHF embroidered microfiber golf towel, premium carrying case and battery available for $399 (MSRP). The Tour Z6 has become a favorite among golfers because it offers optimal distance measuring performance with the look and feel of a finely tuned precision instrument. For more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders, visit the company’s website at www.bushnellgolf.com.

➌ ECCO Tour Hybrid Wingtip Golf’s fi rst classic-crossover shoe – ECCO Tour Hybrid show-Golf’s first classic-crossover shoe – ECCO Tour Hybrid show-cases elegant leather uppers paired with the brand’s award-win-ning Street outsole for a sophisticated look combined with superb performance. This versatile style works perfectly with any office outfit and then transitions seamlessly to the golf course. Built with a highly-durable TPU wear-resistant material, the approximately 100 molded traction bars provide more than 800 traction angles for optimal grip on all surfaces. Tour Hybrid offers a touch of class in the boardroom, on the first tee or for an evening out. www.ec-cousa.com MSRP: $190

Page 71: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

71Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 2

➎ Nike Golf's Women's Verdana Club Line Nike Golf brings performance designed specifically for women to its latest women’s club set, the Nike Verdana. Designed from the grip down, the Verdana line is the lightest women’s set ever produced by Nike Golf. Lightweight materials and construction from top to bottom combine to deliver faster swing speeds and more control. The Nike Verdana set is a total game solution that includes 11 clubs: driver, 3 fairway wood, 4-6 hybrids, 7-PW, SW, putter, and a matching carry bag. This holistic full-set design takes distance gapping, trajectory, and spin profiles into account, producing a set engineered just for women. The Nike Verdana set also includes a fashionable carry bag, which utilizes a lightweight ergonomic design for ease of use, even weight distribution and improved comfort. The bag is highly ver-satile as it was designed to be used on a cart, but includes a stand with a dual strap for carrying. The Nike Verdana set is available in standard and petite (-1”) lengths stores around the globe now.

➍ Barber Pole Golf Barber Pole Golf, based in Dublin, Ireland, manufac-

tures solid brass precision-made putters. Each world-class putter incorporates patented Radius Face Technol-ogy designed to stroke the golf ball above the equator. The connection produces immediate topspin and a true, forward roll for improved control and accuracy. Barber Pole putters achieve “true roll” in just 9 inches, which is 3-4 inches better than the competition. Barber Pole’s Irish Links Series has four distinctive putter models: Ballybunion, Portrush, Lahinch and Waterville. Each engineered putter face is carved from 100 percent c360 solid brass, eliminating any possible “dead spots” or “air pockets” which can occur with casted putters. Using Computer Numerical Control milling tech-nology, Barber Pole guarantees the quality and integrity of each of its putters. Ballybunion incorporates the ever-growing popularity of the mallet design using a double bend shaft to help align the shaft of the putter with the center of the face, making the putter face balanced. Portrush is a classic plumbers neck design introduced to golf in the 1950s, which is offset. Waterville is a mallet putter with the di-vide between the face and the rounded off cavity at the back a little thicker so it gives a solid feel. Lahinch has a flow neck design allowing you a clean view of the ball at address, which gives you a more connected feeling to the putter. Both the Ballybunion and Waterville putters are face balanced for players who prefer that type of design. For more information or to order, visit www.BarberPoleGolf.com

Page 72: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 14, Issue 272

pro vi

sions Aces & Eagles

Matt Hibbs is the new Director of Golf for both On Top of the World Golf Club and Candler Hills Golf Club. Matt has been the Head Golf Professional at Candler Hills Golf Club for the past three years. Before that, he graduated from Ferris State University in Michigan with a Professional Golf Manage-ment/Marketing degree in 2005. After gradu-

ation, he spent five years as a golf operation manager at Walt Disney World Golf, where he became a Class A PGA member in 2006. Matt proudly said about his recent promotion, “I am honored to be the Director of Golf for On Top of the World and Candler Hills Golf Clubs and will strive to create the best golf experience for everyone”.

Matt Hibbs, PGA, Named Director of Golf, On Top Of The World Communities

After selling 41 golf courses during the last 30 months, with six more currently under con-tract and seven exclusively listed golf courses for sale, Marcus & Millichap’s National Golf & Resort Properties Group, the nation’s largest golf course brokerage and real estate invest-ment services firm, has once again expanded their operation with the addition of Robert Waldron, Sales Associate, Investment Advisor. Mr. Waldron is a golf and hospitality indus-try veteran with more than 25 years of experi-ence. He has held management positions with well-respected firms such as Marriott Corporation, Legg Mason Real Estate Services and Billy Casper Golf. Steven Ekovich, Director of the firm’s National Golf & Resort Properties Group based in Tampa, Florida, said “we are excited to have an industry veteran of Rob’s caliber join our team. Rob is well-known, well-respected and well-liked in the Golf Indus-try and complements our team which now totals five golf course brokers facilitating golf

course transactions throughout the U.S. His extensive background in finance, operations, acquisitions, brokerage, debt placement, busi-ness development and consulting, provides a unique perspective to both underwriting and the sale of golf course assets.”Mr. Waldron has been directly involved with more than 150 golf courses in an advisory capacity including 10 golf course transac-tions. He is a published author of numerous articles for golf trade publications and has been a featured speaker for more than 15 years at Golf Industry events. Rob served on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Chapter of the National Golf Course Owners Associa-tion and the Washington Metropolitan Golf Association and is a member of the Golf Digest “100 Greatest Courses in America” Panel. Rob volunteered as a Rules Official for USGA, MSGA, MAGA and WMGA golf events. Mr. Waldron holds a BS in Finance from Penn State University.

The Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden has appointed veteran culinary executive Rick Schneider kitchen supervisor. Tano Malentin, general manager at Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge, said Schneider is a former Disney chef who was a student at the University of Cincinnati when he launched his culinary career as an appren-tice at the venerable Kenwood Country Club. A chance to serve as executive chef at Plan-tation Bay Golf & Country Club in Ormond Beach lured him to Florida , then Walt Disney

World Resorts, and the Hyatt Grand Cypress Golf Resort next door. “We’re delighted that one of the bright young stars of our industry is joining us and we are proud to present him at Orange County National,” Malentin said. prize for a developer once again at the annual event for Nocatee, its master-planned com-munity that continues to break records and reach new milestones. To learn more about the Nocatee lifestyle, call 1-800-Nocatee or visit www.Nocatee.com.

Marcus & Millichap's National Golf & Resort Properties Expands

Orange County National Golf Center Appoints Former Disney Chef Rick Schneider Kitchen Supervisor

Robert Waldron

Page 74: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

Golf is Your Passion… ProvidinG Great exPeriences is oursA hidden gem located on the Nature’s Coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico awaits your party’s arrival. The resort’s 27 holes of competitive and challenging golf originally designed by Mark Mahannah in 1957 provide a rewarding golf experience in the traditional “Florida” style with a variety of water and bunker obstacles. Challenging fairways lined by mature emerald pines and oaks with water hazards creating a unique Florida golf experience, our course is set on 232 acres of lush preserve land surrounded by the waters of Kings Bay. All of our links are beautifully manicured, well-groomed, and provide a traditional mix of the best golf Florida has to offer.

Make us your Stay & Play headquarters. There are 10 additional area golf courses to challenge you, as well as other activities such as: fishing, boating, dining, nature and spa. So come for as long or as little as you like, a la carte or at great savings with packages like our Golf & Breakfast Package.

See Your Travel Agent, Visit Us Online or Call 800-632-3232

Southern Hospitality with Florida Charm

9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com

Golf & Breakfast PackaGe

Starting From $98

per person per night*

*Subject to availability; based on double occupancy; high season rates will be higher. Includes accommodations, one 18-hole round of golf and breakfast for two per each night of stay. Group rates are available on request.

PCR full-pg Golf ad.indd 1 12/18/12 2:52 PM

Page 76: Florida Golf Central Magazine Volume 14 Issue 2

www.floridagolfcentral.com

“The Squire” “The Bear”

“The King”“The Slammer” “The King”

Golf HereAnd take advantage of our

summer golf specials!

The 7-day Double PlayCome visit the World Golf Village Resort and play both the

King & Bear and Slammer & Squire golf courses within 7 days for 1 low price!

Tee Times: (904) 940-6088

Visit www.golfwgv.com for more information and to view our latest golf specials and Stay and Play Packages.

WORLD GOLF VILLAGE RESORTWhere legends come to play.

(904) 940-6088 : TWO WORLD GOLF PLACE : ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA

FL Golf Central - March 2013 - WGV.indd 1 2/28/2013 12:36:17 PM