new england golf monthly - march 2009

Where to Watch Your Favorite Tour Players in 2009

Vol II Issue I www.NewEnglandGolfMonthly.com March 2009

RIGolfMonthly.com - MassGolfMonthly.com - CTGolfMonthly.com - NHGolfMonthly.com - VermontGolfMonthly.com - MaineGolfMonthly.com

September 9, 2009 September 28 - October 4, 2009

Story on 8

“THE #1 TEST IN GOLF”The Pines Course

atThe International ~ Bolton, MA

June 21 - 232009

2 March 2009 newenglandgolfmonthly.com

New England Golf Monthly

newenglandgolfmonthly.com March 2009 3


Publisher: Timothy R. Branco

Assistant Publisher: David Adamonis

Managing Editor: Timothy R. Branco

Production: Sally BriereRobin Sampson/Greg Sampson

Administration: Mary L. Hullett

ContributorsTom Gorman Tim GearyDavidAdamonis Parker SmithJohn Lyon Pam BorgesJay Nomakeo Bob DiCesareRichard Kelley Robert MartinBill Geiring Katherine DysonMatt Adams Jim HammondBurgess Houston Greg SampsonJeff Dantas Gary TraskJohn Molori John MagginisWayne Mills Derek HooperBrad Reading Robert SkuraHal Philips Barry Palm

FashionWriterElle Brec

[email protected]

Sales & MarketingGreg Sampson - Manager

[email protected]

Timothy R. Branco - Corporate [email protected]

David Sampson - Intern

Real Estate SalesBetsy Griffin

[email protected]

New England Golf Monthly is published 8 times year-ly by The New England Publishing Group Inc.Reproduction of the contents, images and editorial isstrictly prohibited without written permission fromthe publisher. Neither advertiser or publisher will beheld liable for errors or omissions in any content ofthis publication. All rights reserved.For product marketing distribution and/or direct mail infor-mation contact us at [email protected]

New England Golf MonthlyThe New England

Publishing Group, Inc.P.O. Box 357

Swansea, Ma 02777800-736-9020

ADivision of The New England Publishing Group, Inc.

CONTENT

“New England Golf Monthly the Official Show Guide For 2009”

www.NewEnglandGolfMonthly.comMarch 2009 Volume II Issue I

New England Golf Monthly We Are Ready For 2009It is almost spring, just a few more weeks and we have turned the page on this long cold winter that just would not

quit. I am not sure if it is just me, but the older I get the longer the winters seem to get. We are at the beginning of a newjourney this year. After a year of publishing as Bay State Golf Magazine we have now changed our name to New EnglandGolf Monthly. Same great content, we are all about New England golf and every aspect of the game throughout the region.

Its an exciting year ahead with The CVS, The Travelers, and The Deutsche Bank Championship all bringing some ofthe best in the game right here to New England.

And for the first time ever The U.S. Women’s Public Links Championship will come to New England and be held inJune at Red Tail Golf Club in Devens Massachusetts.

For the first time in history a New Englander Jim Remy from Vermont has been chosen as the new President of thePGA. Kirk Hanefeld former PGA Professional at The International in Bolton, Mass has won The PGA Player of The YearAward, and Jay Monahan former Tournament Director at The Deutsche Bank Championship and executive with the BostonRed Sox is now the Tournament Director of The Players Championship. And oh yes Tiger is Back.

In addition Connecticut native Jim Nantz has again won the National Sportscaster of The Year Award. New Englandcontinues to have a major impact on golf with more than 10 player on the various professional tours, lets all wish themluck in the up coming year.New England Golf Monthly will be here with 8 issues March through October to cover it all from tee to green. Our newweb-site is the most comprehensive site ever launched in New England Golf will be updated weekly with current news,travel, and instructional tips and The New England Golf Marketplace will provide all the tools you need to get the bestdeals on all things golf in the region. Visit us at newenglandgolfmonthly.com

I wish you all a very healthy and enjoyable golf year. In a good economy or bad I say, let’s play golf!All The BestManaging EditorTimothy R. [email protected]

~ In This Issue ~6 New England Golf News

8 Some Fine Nines by Jim Hammond

9 U.S. Women’s Public Links at Red Tail by Gary Trask

12 The N.E.P.G.A. Pro File by Bob DiCeasar

14 Florida Golf Travel

16 Explore Puerto Rico Golf by Pam Borges

21 The Players Championship by Barry Palm

23 Molori Unplugged on Jim Nantz

24 Good Looks on the Course Fashion by Elle Brec

27 Stroke Savers 2009

34 Gorman Vs. Geary on the LPGA



JIM REMYELECTED PRESIDENTOF PGA OF AMERICA

By Wayne Mills

For the first time in their history, the PGA of America has elected a NewEnglander as President. Jim Remy, General Manager of Okemo Valley Golf Clubin Ludlow, Vt. was elected in November, 2008 for a two year term. He had previ-ously served on the PGANational Board of Control for six and one half years start-ing in 1997 before being elected Secretary and Vice President of the organizationin 2004 and 2006 respectively.The PGA ofAmerica was founded in 1916 and is headquartered in Palm Beach

Gardens, FL. They represent over 28,000 men and women golf professionalsthroughout the United States.

Remy’s career in recreation didn’t start out in the golf business. He came toVermont in 1979 as a pro ski racer and then an instructor and pursued golf only asa means to fill up his summers. He calls it “the perfect life; skiing all winter andplaying golf all summer.”

Originally from Leominster, MA, Remy started his golf professional career asan assistant at Worcester Country Club inWorcester, MAwhich coincidentally wasthe site of the first Ryder Cup, one of the PGA of America’s crown jewels. He wasan assistant pro there before moving nearby to Mount Pleasant Country Club. Afterearning his Class A designation from the PGA in 1984, he took his first head projob at Killington Golf Resort in Vermont’s Green Mountains in 1985, eventuallyascending to Director of Golf for not only Killington but the other golf resorts thenowned by S-K-I Ltd in Vermont.

In 1997 he was enticed by the owners of another Vermont resort, OkemoMountain, to join them in the development of their new golf course, Okemo ValleyGolf Club. Remy jumped in with both feet and was involved from the beginning inthe entire concept and development of the project. Not only was he also finishingup his two year term as New England PGA Section President in 1997, he was laterthat year elected New England Section Golf Professional of the Year by his peers.

He hasn’t stopped working at Okemo since becoming PGA President, he onlyworks more, having only five days off since being elected President. He credits agreat staff and his bosses, Tim and Diane Mueller for giving him their full supportto pursue the very important job of being President of the PGAofAmerica. Not badfor a country boy from Vermont.

President, PGA

Red Tail Golf Club • 35 Miles West of Boston Route 2 Exit 37 • Devens, MA 01432 • 978-772-3273

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the chance to familiarise themselves with a stunning golf course which isbound to create high drama during the fevered atmosphere of The RyderCup. With water hazards on half of its holes, some driveable par fours andreachable par fives, The Twenty Ten contains a host of risk and reward

dilemmas which golfers will never tire of playing.Two more championship courses – Roman Road and The Montgomerie – also form part of the member-

ship package and, with so much golf to enjoy, international members will be keen to take advantage of the fourcomplimentary room nights per year for two people in the five-star Resort Hotel which is another fantasticadvantage of joining. Paul Williams, PR Manager, The Celtic Manor Resort, T: 00 44 1633 410288, M: 00 447920 05825 , E: [email protected]

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~ New England Golf News ~

The MGA is gearing up for another season.Despite the economic downturn, I’m anticipating that a lotof people will still want to play golf. We recognize thatmany golf clubs and golf courses are really feeling thestrain of the times and will attempt to help when we can.

The MGA is partnering with the New England ClubManagers Association (NECMA) and invited speakers from the NationalClub Association (NCA) to speak to officials from our member clubsabout the current golf environment. There will be two sessions – March31 at Marshfield CC and April 14 at Mount Pleasant CC in Boylston –where an NCA representative will deliver a talk entitled “Club IndustryTrends and Essentials of Marketing.” There is no silver bullet to curesome of the current challenges facing clubs, these sessions will allow clubofficials to hear from industry experts while also providing a forum toexchange ideas and best practices.

On the championship front there will be a few changes for 2009.Distance measuring devices will be allowed at all MGA tournament playwith the exception of the Junior Amateur Championship. All six stateassociations in New England now will be allowing these devices in theirevents in 2009. Players competing in USGA qualifying in New England– or for that matter anywhere – are still not allowed to used DMD’s fornational championship play.With the growing popularity of senior golf, the MGA Senior Amateur

Championship will be conducting a sectional qualifying round for the firsttime for entry into the Senior Am. There will be a fair amount of exemp-tions based on good play and high finishes in the 2008 MGA Senior Am,NEGA Senior Am and MGA Senior Player of the Year, but a majority ofavailable spots for the championship proper will be through qualifying.By the start of the golf season the MGAweb site will have a new look,

so please go to our web site – www.mgalinks.org – for the latest news andinformation.Wishing everyone a great season on and off the course.



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2009Sprin

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Maine State Golf AssociationPlayer Of The YearRicky Jones

Connecticut State Golf AssociationPlayer Of The YearJeff Hedden

NewHampshire Golf AssociationPlayers Of The YearCraig CyrMark Stevens

Vermont Golf AssociationPlayer Of The YearBrian Albertazzi

Rhode Island Golf AssociationPlayer Of The YearCharlie Blanchard

Cape Cod OpenThe 18th Cape Cod Open will be played June 3,2009 at Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds and June 4,2009 at Hyannis GC.

The 11th Cape Cod Senior Open will be played atthe usual sites, September 156, 2009 at Cape CodCC and September 16, 2009 at Hyannis GC.

Joseph J. SpragueExecutive Director

MGA Gearing Up For2009 Season.

Brian Higgins 2008MGA Player Of The Year

Brian Higgins Captures 2008 Richard D. Haskell MGAPlayer of the Year Honor. Joe Keller and Bradley KushnerNamed MGA Senior, Junior Players of the Year.For the first time in eight years, the Massachusetts Golf

Association (MGA) has crowned a new Player of the Year. Brian Higgins(Bellingham, MA) captured a total of 903 points this past season and hasearned the right to call himself the 2008 Richard D. Haskell MGA Playerof the Year.Higgins takes over the crown, which had been worn by perennial Bay

State standout Frank Vana, Jr. (Marlborough CC) for the past seven years.

Joe KellerMGA Senior Player Of The YearGeorge M. Cohen MGA Senior Player of the Year, JOE

KELLER.It seems only fitting that Joe Keller, one of the most pro-

lific and consistent golfers on the Bay State senior cir-cuit,earned George M. Cohen MGA Senior Player of the Year honors thispast season. Keller, 59, made a strong statement this year as he posted 585points to finish 205 points ahead of Paul Murphy (Arlington, MA).

Bradley KushnerMGA Junior Player Of The YearChristopher Cutler Rich MGA Junior Player of the Year,

BRADLEY KUSHNER.This past season, Bradley Kushner picked the right

event to win. The 17-year-old who resides in Mendham,New Jersey and plays out of Country Club of New Seabury, was victori-ous at the Massachusetts Junior Championship at Brae Burn CountryClub. Kushner’s three-day total of 3-over par 219 was good enough for afour-stroke victory over second-place finisher Dan McQueen (BellevueGC). As a result of his win, Kushner picked up 300 Junior Player of theYear points and secured himself as the year’s top junior player.


~ New England Golf News ~New England Golf Monthly

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Come meet at the River in 2009, That’s Beaver River Golf Club343 Kingstown Road, Rt 138, Richmond, RI

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Come Enjoy Great Conditions & Scenic Views

KIRK HANEFELDWINS 2008 PGAPLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Kirk Hanefeld, 52, is a PGA Life Member and formerPGA director of golf at The International Golf Club inBolton, Mass. He capped his season last October by win-ning the Senior PGA Professional National Championshippresented by Callaway Golf in Palm Desert, Calif., collect-ing 200 points.

He finished with 1,371.84 over points, which included1035.51 points for making the cut in the 10 ChampionsTour events he entered. He also tied for 34th in the Senior

PGA Championship, earning 111.33 points, and picked up an additional 25points for local U.S. Open qualifying.

"That [the Senior PGA Professional] National Championship was a terrificwin," said Hanefeld. "To win something of that magnitude was a surprise, apleasant surprise. I have continued to work on my game the past couple of years.I am proud to be among a select group of club professionals who have won thisaward. I have had the pleasure to have played with several of them. I have beena PGA member for 25 years and am proud of that. The PGA of America offersus many playing opportunities that enable me to keep my game in shape."

RIGA APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENT FOR 2009Rhode Island Golf Association elects Steve Sampson as the

new president.He is an expert at organization. He had to be, to successful-

ly build and then run his auto parts business for so many years.Recently, at age 57, Sampson retired and now can devote

most of his time and energy to helping the RIGA continue togrow.Each year the Rhode Island Golf Association installs its new

president at the annual awards banquet held in December.Each year the incoming president says pretty much the same thing. "I tell everybodythe people we have running the organization (Executive Director Bob Ward, hisassistant Jim McKenna and secretary Kate McCurry) are absolutely great at whatthey do," said Sampson. "They have things well under control and I'm not one torock the boat."Ward, McKenna and McCurry not only put in countless hours to make each golf

season memorable, but they truly know what makes things run smoothly. They arethe constant.

Currently the RIGA only has the state senior amateur and four-ball. Sampsonwould love to place a senior division in a couple of other major Rhode Island golftournaments (a tournament within a tournament), with senior divisions in both theBurke Memorial and the state stroke play.

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New England AmateurChampionships

Massachusetts Amateur Championship

Connecticut Amateur ChampionshipJune 22 – 26Woodway Country ClubDarien, CT

Maine Amateur ChampionshipJuly 7 – 9Martindale Country ClubAuburn, ME

Vermont Amateur ChampionshipJuly 7 – 9Kwiniaska Golf ClubShelburne, VT

Massachusetts Amateur ChampionshipJuly 13-17The Country ClubBrookline, MA

Rhode Island Amateur ChampionshipJuly 13 – 17Crestwood, CCRehoboth, MA

New Hampshire Amateur ChampionshipJuly 13 – 18Cochecho Country ClubDover, NH

New England AmateurJuly 21-23, 2009Portsmouth Country ClubPortsmouth, NH

Some Fine Nines’By Jim Hammond

Time is money and these days people are concerned about both. But these tough economic times do notmean that we have to eliminate our recreational activities; instead, we need to take advantage of the uniqueopportunities that the great game of golf provides. Why not give nine hole courses a try. You save money andtime and still get your golf fix. So to help our loyal readers we offer some of the finest nines in our neck of thewoods.

I have always thought of Jamestown as a quiet version of Newport. Like the venue of the Vanderbilts,Jamestown provides dramatic views of the ocean and a center that offers unique shops and restaurants but at aless frantic pace. Just over the bridge from Newport you will spy the Jamestown Golf Course. The lounge, rem-iniscent of a VFW hall, is a combination pro shop and tavern where everybody is treated as equals. The sign overthe bar says, “We give you hamburgers our way. This ain’t Burger King.” This is not the commodore’s club!

The first hole is a wide open affair that at 270 yards begs you to drive the green and putt for eagle. The sec-ond hole is a short 480 yard par 4 with a generous fairway, but the wind is often a factor. The remaining par 4’sare in the 350 yard range but the wind can play havoc with your shots. The par 3’s are short but the greens aresmall and well bunkered. If you execute the knock-down shot this is the place for you. Jamestown Golf Courseis always in good condition and the hamburgers are some of the best in the state. Call 401-423-9930 for moreinformation.

I have only played Scituate Country Club once, but this short nine hole course south of Boston has a lotto offer. The course is private, but the public is allowed on Monday afternoons. The track is a links style designwith ocean views and rolling terrain.

The condition is the same that you would find at most private clubs and the staff were very accommodat-ing to me when I visited. Call 781-545-9768 for more information.

If you want to take a long road trip, go north towards Worcester and pick up route 2. Follow the signs to thelittle town of Petersham where you will find a most unlikely treasure: a nine hole course designed by DonaldRoss. The operation is quirky (there is no parking lot, you have to pull up alongside the ninth green and changeinto your spikes) but the design is a true masterpiece by the great Scot.

The Petersham Country Club rests on a on a hill that provides spectacular views and holes with major ele-vation changes that demand you use every club in the bag. The greens, typical of most of Ross greens, arecrowned placing an emphasis on your approach shots. The ninth hole is a 511 yard par 5 and like all the holes itis fair to players of all skill levels, but tempts the big hitter to try to overpower the course. Fun for everyone.Phone: 978-724-3388.

One of my favorite nine holers in Massachusetts is located near the tip of Cape Cod. Highland Links inTruro is a little bit of Scotland in the Bay State. The fairways are hard and sand dunes surround the course. Thefirst hole is a short par 4 at 250 yards, but miss the green and your recovery shot is a blind shot, uphill to a tinygreen. If you know the bump and run shot you will score well here. Despite your final score the ocean views andthe sea air will make it a truly unique experience. If you like the beach the Cape Cod National Seashore is onlyabout a 20 minute drive down route 6. Phone: 508 252-9761.

Pine Oaks Golf Club in Easton is a short nine hole course with wide fairways and large greens. It is a goodcourse for the novice golfer and the staff is very friendly. What makes this course unique is the pro shop. It isabout 4 times the size of a pro shop that you would find at a private club. Their prices are great and they have alarge used club inventory that is typically marked at half the usual retail price. Phone 508 238-2320.

East Greenwich Country Club has had a reputation of reaching out to female and junior golfers: twogroups that are sometimes snubbed at other courses. The condition is great for a public course and the staffknows how to make you feel like an old friend of the club. The second hole is a 320 dogleg left that seems likeit should be an easy birdie, but the elevated green is a small target. The 3rd hole is one of the most picturesquepar fives you can find anywhere. Phone: 401-884-5656.

Hopedale Country Club in Hopedale, MA is another private club that allows the public access on week-days. The course has fast greens and lush fairways and a beautiful clubhouse that overlooks the ninth green. Thefirst hole is a par 4 straight up a hill, and is followed by a par 5 back down the hill to a heavily bunkered green.The par 3 is a tight hole with a tiny green and is reminiscent of the 12th hole at Augusta. Call for details at 508473-9876.Chequessett Country Club is hard to spell, but easy to play. The course, only 2600 yards from the back tees,

is located just off route 6 and pro-vides spectacular views of the bay.The longest hole is a par 5 that is only435 from the Tiger tees, but the seabreezes and water hazards makes it avery challenging track. Phone 508349 3704.The last of the fine nines is Bungay

Brook located in Bellingham, MA.Bungay is not a very long course, butthe greens are big and the bunkerseven bigger. The condition is alwaysvery good but what makes Bungayspecial is the amenities not usuallyassociated with public 9 hole courses.There is a 300 yard long practice areawith full grass tees, and a large prac-tice green. The clubhouse has highceilings and low prices on food. It isa family owned business and theywork hard to provide courteous serv-ice to all. Phone 508 883-1600.


COURSE REVIEWS

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Bungy Brook Golf Course

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Highlands Links

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Jamestown Golf Course


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One ofSouthern New England’sFinest Golf Courses

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U.S. Women’s Amateur Public LinksTo Be Held At Red Tail June 24-27th

By Gary Trask

Jim Pavlik looked out his office window in late February and all he couldsee was mountains of snow and very little green. But if you think the Red TailGolf Club Director of Golf was even a smidge nervous that in just four monthshis club will play host to the prestigious U.S. Women’s Amateur Public LinksChampionship, guess again.

“We don’t have any worries at all,” Pavlik said confidently. “Our course isalways in championship condition, whether we’re having a big event or if it’sjust your average weekday. And I think that’s exactly why the U.S.G.A. choseus for the tournament. They know what kind of condition the course is going tobe in.”

Of course, this isn’t just your average championship that we’re talkingabout. In fact when some of the best amateur players in the country head to RedTail on June 22-27 for the Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship, itwill mark the first time in the storied 32-year history of the event that it is beingplayed on New England soil.

“We’re humbled, excited, proud…any positive adjective you can think of,that pretty much describes how we feel about hosting this,” said Pavlik. “TheU.S.G.A. only holds 13 championship events each year. There are plenty ofgreat public courses in this area so for them to choose us as the first NewEngland course to host their champi-onship, that makes it that much more spe-cial.”

Pavlik, 55, has been a PGA profes-sional for 30 years. He is originally fromPennsylvania, but was hired by Red Tailthe year before the course opened in2002. He was there before the course waseven seeded. He was there for the grandopening and he’s witnessed first-handhow the Brian Silva-designed layout hasquickly matured into one of the most highly acclaimed public courses in theentire country.

Just last fall, Golf World magazine ranked Red Tail 47th on its list of theTop-50 Public Courses in America.

“We’re right up there with places like Torrey Pines and Bethpage; it’s pret-ty special,” Pavlik said. “For me, it’s just nice to see 30 years of learning frommistakes and trying to be the best you can be pay off by working at a course asspecial as Red Tail. It’s a tribute to the ownership, the superintendent’s crew andthe entire staff that we’re getting national recognition and getting the honor tohost an event like the Public Links Championship.”The par-72, 7006-yard course was built on a piece of land at Fort Devens, theformermilitary base that served as a training ground for U.S. soldiers as far backas 1914. Its name is derived from the red tail hawks that nest throughout theproperty.

The layout and feel of the course for the Public Links Championship willremain the same as it has always been at Red Tail. The only major difference isthat the rough will be raised to just a little more than two inches. Also, the backtee on the 10th hole has been transformed into a putting green to accommodateplayers at the start of each nine holes.

“Other than that it will play like it always does: firm and fast,” Pavlik said.“That’s what the U.S.G.A. wants and that’s what we’re going to give them.”

The U.S.G.A. decided to select Red Tail as its venue for this year’s cham-pionship back in 2007 after Tournament Director Teresa Belmont made a visitto the course and played a round with Pavlik.

“Red Tail has all of the qualities we look for in a club,” said Belmont, whohas been with the U.S.G.A. for 14 years. “We look for a club that has excellentpractice facilities, a good location and, above all, a great course. Of all the clubswe looked at in the area, Red Tail was the one that had all of those elements.”

Practice rounds for the event will be held on June 20 and 21. Stroke playfor the 156 qualifiers will begin June 22 with 64 players advancing to the begin-ning of match play on June 24. The 36-hole final will be held on Saturday, June27.

The event is open to female golfers who have been public-course playerssince Jan. 1, 2009 and have a USGAHandicap Index that does not exceed 18.4.Two of the most notable past winners of the event include Michelle Wie, whowas 13 when she triumphed in 2003, and Jill McGill, who won it in 1994.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun watching some of the best in the country comein here and show us their stuff,” Pavlik said. “We can’t wait to get it going.”

Gary Trask is a freelance writer based in the Boston area who has beencovering the local golf scene for the last 10 years. He is the former editorof North Shore Golf magazine and is a regular contributor to FairwayLiving magazine, the Golf Course Superintendent Association of NewEngland newsletter and GolfObserver.com. Gary is also the senior editorat the Casino City Press in Newton.

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Tom Watson to be Honoredat Ouimet Banquet



NORTON, MA - Tom Watson, winner of eightmajor championships, will be the guest speakerand honored with the 14th Francis OuimetAward for Lifelong Contributions to Golf at theFrancis Ouimet Scholarship Fund’s 60th AnnualBanquet. The banquet will be held Monday,April 27, 2009 at the Marriott Boston CopleyPlace Hotel. Morgan Stanley will again be thepresenting sponsor.

"It is great to have Mr. Watson accept our invitation. This gives ourdinner an amazing lineup over the past five years – Greg Norman,Peter Jacobsen, Barbara and Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player – and nowTom Watson,” said Ouimet Fund President Rich Barrett. “We arethrilled to honor Mr. Watson with our highest award.” He went on toexplain Mr. Watson is one of the biggest legends in the history of thegame of golf. He is a winner of eight major titles, including fiveBritish Open Championships, two Masters, and one U.S. Open. He isalso known for epic battles with Jack Nicklaus in the British Open atTurnberry in 1977 and the US Open at Pebble Beach in 1982 - someof the greatest moments in golf history.

The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund is proud toannounce that Ted Hansberry has been selected as the 2009recipient of the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund's RichardF. Connolly, Jr. Distinguished Service Award which will bepresented at The Fund's 60th Annual Banquet on April 27,2009. The highlight of the banquet will be the presentationof the "Francis Ouimet Award for Lifelong Contributions toGolf" to Tom Watson. The event will be held at the Boston

Marriott Copley Place Hotel.Mr. Hansberry was a member of the Board of Directors from 2000-

2008. During that time he served on numerous committees and wasPresident from 2004-2006. He served on the finance and developmentcommittees, started the Board Governance Committee with DickConnolly, and also was the key driver in the development of the Spirit ofGolf events since their inception in 2003. A special highlight was his roleas Spirit of Golf Chairman when The Fund honored Dick Connolly inNovember. It was one of the largest fund raising events in the history ofThe Fund, and created its largest endowed scholarship in Mr. Connolly'sname.

Ted Hansberry to be presented Richard F. Connolly,Jr. Distinguished Service Award - Ouimet Fund PastPresident becomes 14th recipient of prestigious honor

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Norton, MA - At the 1913 US Open at The Country Club inBrookline, Francis Ouimet, a 20 year old caddie, defeated two of thegreatest British golfers of all time in a playoff. Not only did he win,but he did so with 10 year old fellow caddie Eddie Lowery carryinghis bag. This victory was a catalyst for golf in America, and began alifelong amateur career that is still one of the best ever, as well as alifelong dedication to helping young people. To honor the man thatwas credited with sparking the boom in American golf, a scholarshipfund was created in his name in 1949 to help those who had workedas caddies obtain higher education. What was known then as TheFrancis Ouimet Caddie Scholarship Fund is now known as theFrancis Ouimet Scholarship Fund. While the premise remains thesame, it has expanded to those who work on the grounds staff or inpro shop operations, as well as caddies.In 1949 the inaugural class had 13 members, each receiving on

average just over $350. Today, with over 325 current scholars, theaverage student receives $6,000 towards college expenses. In total,the Fund will have awarded $19.2 million to over 4,500 scholars over60 years! In the last five years alone, the Fund has more than doubledits total scholarship dollars awarded from $700,000 in 2004 to $1.5million in 2008.For information regarding the Fund, please call 774.430.9090 or

visit www.ouimet.org.

Ouimet Fund Turns 60The Golf Charity of MassachusettsCelebrates 60 Years of Giving Back

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2009 NEPGA Event ScheduleAPRIL

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By today's standards, you could say Brian Bain was alate bloomer to the game of golf.Bain was a hockey player growing up and didn't give

golf a thought until he attended a practice round during the1988 U.S. Open at The Country Club in Brookline at age16."I loved the atmosphere and fell in love with the game,"

said Bain.A couple of ironic twists have evolved since that time.First, Bain is entering his seventh season as the head golf

professional at Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course (formerly BrooklineGolf Club), which is adjacent to the hallowed grounds of The Country Club.

Last fall, Bain received the 2008 Junior Golf Leader of the Year Awardat the NEPGA Special Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet. It is an honor whichBain feels tremendous pride, given the fact that he never experienced juniorgolf instruction in his youth.

"I'm very fortunate to work under an NEPGA Hall of Famer, JackNeville (director of golf), everything he's taught me that I'm able to passon," said Bain, 36, a Walpole, MA native. "His leadership has helped pro-duce big advancement in the (NEPGA) Section and has encouraged me todo likewise."

"Working with (assistant pro) Larry Coletti, junior golf is very impor-tant here at a public facility such as Lynch Municipal. Juniors are the futureof the game. The greatest challenge today still remains not just getting jun-iors involved in the game of golf, but keeping them involved."

Bain has certainly carved his niche with junior golfers in the last sixyears. From 2004-07, he was named a U.S. Kids Top 50 Junior Instructorand in 2006 he was presented with the inaugural NEPGA President's Plaquefor initiative and leadership in growing the game of golf to junior players.

Last year, Bain was also selected to the inaugural class of U.S. KidsMaster Instructors, of which there are only 18 members in the country. He'salso been appointed to the National PGA Junior Golf Committee.

"It's fun to be able to make a kid's day, to see the happiness on theirfaces," said Bain, who has also introduced his six-year-old daughter,Abigail, to golf. Bain estimates that 60 percent of his instruction is gearedtoward juniors during golf season. That has led to his being instrumental inhosting the final event of the U.S. Kids Boston Tour in the summer, whichsends a qualifier to the national event. He also oversees a PGA JuniorChampionship sectional for NEPGA junior qualifiers which also sends qual-ifiers to a national competition, and he is active with Play Golf America ini-tiatives.

Bain especially prides himself at the promotion and development ofjunior golf at the club level. There are two sets of junior tees installed onevery hole at Lynch Municipal and juniors also have their own scorecard.

Through Bain's efforts, Lynch Municipal now hosts the NEPGA Pro-Junior Tournament, a summer Junior Fourball League with six other areacourses, and Friday Night Junior Golf which gets junior golfers on thecourse playing golf under adult supervision.

Last year, Bain spearheaded a new program Starting New At Golf(SNAG), which is special instruction for younger junior golfers, and thisseason he will expand his four-and-five day junior clinics.

"There are a lot of junior programs out there, but minimal access to thegolf course," said Bain. "Here (Lynch Municipal), we have access. It's achallenge. Instruction is great, but the kids also want to play."

Bain maintains tunnel vision when looking ahead to his future in golf."In five years, I still see myself doing the same thing. I do like the instruct-ing aspect of junior golf."

"Brian is a true leader with his service to junior golf," said Neville."His integrity, his image as a mentor in the junior golf community is wellestablished."

THE N.E.P.G.A. PRO FILE

By Bob DiCesare

NEPGA


Brian Bain

Winter Pro - Pro ResultsCongratulations to the team of Jeffrey Martin and Jeff Seavey who shot 10 under towin the NEPGA Winter Pro Pro sponsored by Terry Frechette at Port St. Lucie's Ryder GCon February 1st.

Here are the results: 1 Jeffrey Martin, Pt Judith CC and Jeff Seavey, Samoset Resort GC 62 T2 Rusty Gunnarson, Rochester GC and Chip Johnson, Hatherly CC 67 T2 Jim Sheerin, Anenaqui Club and Peter Norton, Thorny Lea GC 67 4 Frank Dully, Kernwood CC and Terry O'Hara, Cyprian Keyes GC 68 5 Bob Miller, The Club at Yarmouthport and Gene Mulak, The Vineyard GC 69

Get Golf Ready This latest program to fall under the player development initiative

from the PGA of America features a series of 5 lessons for $99 (priceis flexible) designed to take beginning golfers slowly from the golfshop, to the putting green, to the practice range, to the golf course. TheNew England Section has been selected as one of the regions whichwill be highlighted with additional promotion and financial support. Goto www.playgolfamerica.com for more information.

Running a Golf Tournament?Contact the Golf Event Specialists

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GOLF INSTRUCTIONEffective Putting Practice

Good putting comes from sound fundamentals thatcan be consistently repeated under pressure. Toimprove your putting it is important to practiceboth your technique and performance in a way thatreinforces sound fundamentals while placing youunder some pressure like you will encounter on thegolf course.

Technique Practice

Two of the most important putting funda-mentals that can be worked on duringtechnique practice are putter face align-ment at address and impact. Train Track Drill – Find a level section

on the putting green and place two golf clubs on the ground par-allel to each other, three feet from a hole. One club should pointat the right edge of the hole, the other at the left edge. The clubswill allow you to firstly see if the putter face is aligned correctlyat address and secondly if the ball rolls parallel to the clubs andinto the hole then the face was square at impact. Performance Practice

During performance practice the focusbecomes more about green reading anddistance control. A great drill to improveyour distance control is the leap frogdrill.Leapfrog drill – Pace off 30 feet (point 2)

and 40 feet (point 1) from the edge of the green and place a tee inthe green at each place. Starting from point one, your objective isto putt the first ball past point 2. Your second ball must go pastball 1, ball 3 past ball 2, and so on. Your goal is to get as manyballs as possible in sequence between tee 2 and the edge of thegreen. Derek Hooper is the Director of Instruction at Lake of IslesGolf Academy. Derek has a college degree in teaching and over14 years experience conducting lesson programs in Australia,Japan and Taiwan. Before moving to the United Sates Derekwas the Director of Instruction at the David Duval GolfAcademy in Miyazaki, Japan. Derek can be contacted at1.888.475.3746 or [email protected]

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Just 2 miles south of the theme park capital of the world lies theMystic Dunes Resort and Golf Club. Even though the resort itself offersan escape from the many attractions of Orlando the golf course bringsany golfer on a thrill ride of their own.

From the resort gate you will soon realize that you are driving into a600-acre paradise filled with first-class villas and rolling hills. Every 50yards or so there are speed bumps that I found ironically fitting to the 18hole championship style golf courses greens. Both will test your speedcontrol, imagination, and patience. But don’t worry, the posted signson the road and GPS unit on your cart will help guide you through theever changing elevation that is Mystic Dunes.

The Mystic Dunes Resort and Golf Club opened its doors to vaca-tion owners and guests built on one of the highest elevations in theOrlando area. The resort features 717 one, two, and three bedroom vil-las conveniently supplied with all the comforts of home, but the luxuriesof first-class living, such as the private whirlpool situated in every mas-ter bedroom. While on site there are 4 pools for your enjoyment withthe Dunes Lagoon featuring a two-story water slide and private cabanas.

The Dunes Lagoon is also the home of the Caddyshack Bar &Grille serving great food and ice-cold beverages. When vacationing atMystic Dunes remember to carry your latest copy of the Mystic Dunes

Tribune close to your side.The newsletter offers thelatest information fornightly dining experiences,activities for the wholefamily such as a MiniatureGolf Tournament, GolfTips, and much more. Theresort and golf club staffare visible everywhere andtheir hospitality is sure tomake your stay an enjoy-

able one.The Mystic Dunes Golf Club, although very playable for all skill

levels, is truly designed totest the top players in theworld; hence the namebehind the design,Champions Tour Playerand NBC Analyst, GaryKoch. Gary was asked bythe owners of the resort todesign a course that is likeno other in the area. Withthat said, Gary createdsome of the most difficultgreens in all of golf. Almost every green on the golf course is tiered andif the green is missed your imagination with your wedge, 7 iron, orhybrid is a must, to give yourself a saving chance. From theChampionship tees the course measures 7,012 yards in length with a parof 71. On the front nine you will travel through ancient oaks while try-ing to keep your ball out of the surrounding marsh lands and whiskeybarrel shaped bunkers. On the back nine the same is true, but the terrainhas a much more natural flow to it similar to a links course. There areonly two water hazards on the course so your chance of finding errantshots is feasible allowing you to spend more time reading your puttsfrom all angles. Regardless of the tees you are playing from, my adviceis to manage your distance off the tee to the widest part of the fairway,approach on the safe side of the flag, and play more break than you seeon the greens. By sticking to that game plan Mystic Dunes is sure toprovide you the thrill of a life time on the course and a most enjoyableone at that. Who needs Disney World when you can ride the greens ofMystic Dunes Resort and Golf Club.

Mystic Dunes Golf Club, a high-end daily fee course, is open to thepublic and is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club inCelebration, Florida, which is owned and operated by Tempus ResortsInternational, Ltd. Designed by Champions Tour player and NBC GolfAnalyst Gary Koch, this premier Central Florida course is a par 71,7,012-yard golfer’s dream. The course is ranked a four-star facilityamong Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play,” is listed among Golfweek’stop 100 “Best Resort Golf Courses,” and is ranked #2 among“Orlando’s Top 5 Golf Courses” by TravelGolf.com. Tee times can bebooked online at www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling the pro shopat 1-866-311-1234 or 407-787-5678.


FLORIDA GOLF TRAVEL

Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club:A Theme Park in its Own Right

By Greg Sampson

FIDDLESTICKS COUNTRY CLUB: Prestige for the Privileged!36-Hole, Gated Golf Community for Members & Invited Guests Only

by Tom GormanFT MYERS, Florida – Mention southwest Florida, and anyone who’s ever purchased a sleeve of Titleists,laced up a pair of Foot Joys and checked in with a starter immediately knows the name of at least two golfcourses. Although the annual invasion of the snowbirds from the North begins in November, March is the really

high, holy season for tee times. From the Panhandle to the Keys, no state can compare with the number ofcourses available (over 1,000) than the Sunshine State. On a recent trip south, I decided to try to find at leastone Florida course that is memorable, since my biggest complaint about golf in Florida is that they are allpretty much the same: flat, boring and with lots of water.After a little research, the general consensus directed me toward a 36-hole, gated golf development called

Fiddlesticks Country Club, located just off Route I-75, about 8 miles from the airport, and 15 miles north ofNaples. A brochure described it as “one of southwest Florida’s premiere country clubs,” while also boastingthat it “is renowned as a discriminating club for approximately 600 equity members.”With low expectations and highly cynical of Florida real estate values, I secured a tee time with assistance

from Ron Garl, the golf course designer, who over the course of three decades has been involved in over 130 golf design projects. Garl never promised dra-matic elevation changes and small, elevated greens surrounded by bunkers like we have throughout New England, but he did predict correctly that the roundwould be filled with challenge and tradition, and that his trademark is to allow players of all skill levels to leave with a lasting, favorable impression.“I really believe both courses at Fiddlesticks are special. The ‘Long Mean’ and Wee Friendly’ courses are two of my all-time favorite projects,” said Garl,

who has gained an international reputation of bringing golf and nature together in a compatible environment. “We wanted to build two courses that areunique, unusual, and enjoyable whether it’s a game for the single digit or high handicapper. The two courses have everything from waste bunkers, to potbunkers to the classical traditional bunkers. We have lots of water visible and tried to give every hole a different look. Of course, the two most scenic holesat Fiddlesticks is No. 9 on Wee and No. 18 at Long Mean, which are island greens that are located front and center of the clubhouse.”Fiddlesticks Country Club is a community of expensive single family homes starting at $400,000 and a few condos starting at $250,000. The average ageis 54 and about half of the 600 members are year-round residents. Equity ownership means you pay upfront at the time of purchase and you get 80% ofyour money back when you sell. The current equity fee here is $81,000; monthly dues are $907 and there are lots of rules covering rentals, dining at the40,000 sq ft clubhouse and guests. If you’re a baby boomer looking to retire to an upscale golf community in southwest Florida, Fiddlesticks Country Club is the place. It is the best privategolf community experience in these parts. I’m even beginning to change my stereotypical thinking about golf in the Sunshine State. – Tom Gorman

It is often said you should travel well and be rested in places that stimulate yoursenses and arouse your appetite for relaxation. You often know when you are atthe right place when you constantly forget the day and the time. Each day shouldalways pass slowly and leave us with a complete feeling of being somewhere spe-

cial as a reward for our time in the trenches. Sarasotaand her Islands are such a place, a mid sized city on theGulf offering it all. The eclectic mix of great golf, lux-urious hotels and resorts and wonderful restaurantswill keep you coming back for more.

Sarasota is located just 50 minutes south ofTampa on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The region isblessed with some of the most pristine Islands andKeys and offers some of the most spectacularscenery in the state. The charm of Siesta Key and

the elegance of Long Boat Key will give you all the choices you will need for yourindividual taste. There is literally something for everyone here, and it is all good.We stayed at the newly renovated Hyatt on Sarasota Bay looking out over Long

Boat Key. The hotel has just undergone a 22 million dollar renovation from top tobottom. Lively colors and sophesticated designed schemes are blended together inthe new Hyatt to create a feeling of relaxation through art.

The lobby greets you with a bright and open atmosphere with a kind of trendyArt Deco Florida feel. The guest rooms were equally bright and alive in colors that

brought out the fantastic views of the bay. Inthe Hyatt tradition a top designer was com-missioned to transform the property to it’snew life in Sarasota, designer Lilly Pulitzer’schoices are a fresh new statement that workwell. If service is what you expect from aHyatt, the staff was at every level pleasant andprofessional.

The Hyatt sits just steps from the RitzCarlton also on Sarasota Bay. The Ritz is a top class hotel that will offer you allthe indulgence necessary for a great get away. There is nothing like a SundayBrunch on Super Bowl Sunday at The Ritz. Just minutes from the Hyatt and theRitz is one of the regions best resort hotels: Hiltons Longboat Key Club. The prop-erty is a 410-acre beachfront resort and private country club on the barrier island

of Longboat Key. The club is anexclusive and very private resortoffering all the amenities of an islandgetaway yet just minutes from the cityof Sarasota. It is rare to have a choiceof so many high quality exclusiveresort properties in such a small geo-graphic region, but it speaks volumes for the Sarasota area and her islands.

There are many choices for some of the best golf in the Sunshine State in theSarasota Bradenton area. While on the trip we played University Park just min-utes from the hotel, designed by Ron Garl. The 27 hole layout is one of the regionsbest bets offering great golf in a relaxing, elegant atmosphere that offers plenty ofchallenges for all levels of players. On day two we ventured out to the Long BoatKey Club. The club offers two distinctly different playing experiences with theirHarborside and Islandside golf courses.

The Islandside course, designed by Bill Mitchell in 1960 is an 18 hole cham-pionship course playing at about 6,800 yards with water coming in to play onevery hole, a very intimidating but fair course that required good club selectionand attention to course management.The Harborside course was designed by Willard Byrd in1982 and had a redesign

in 2006 by Ron Garl. The course has three 9 hole tracks that play a little shorter,but again target golf comes into play on almost all holes. The course is strategi-cally set up to force the player to think through the round. The challenges of thistype of golf will stimulate your senses and test your skills. Both courses offer mag-nificent views of the gulf and bay. There are plenty of other choices in the regionas well for all levels of players. We visited StoneyBrook, Pelican Point, HeronCreek and Lakewood Ranch, great facilities that are just minutes from downtownSarasota.

You can find it all in Sarasota and her Islands,great accommodations, wonderful golf, great shop-ping and some of the best spas anywhere. Therestaurant choices are endless and there are plenty ofnightlife and cultural events to choose from. Oh andyes, there is something special about watching thesun disappear into the ocean after a full day of golfand a massage with a cool drink in hand, cheers!!

Special thanks go out to Jason Cabral and Erin Duggan from the SarasotaConvention & Visitors Bureau for their help and expertise in getting us acquaint-ed with all the region has to offer. They can be contacted at 941.955.0991 or atgobeyondthebeaches.com


FLORIDA GOLF TRAVELGolf in Style on the Cultural Coast:

Sarasota and Her Islands

Explore Puerto Rico’s Picture Perfect Golf ResortsBy Pam Borges

With nearly two-dozen championship golf courses stretching from coast to coast, Puerto Rico is recognized as the Golf Capital of theCaribbean. With year-round temperatures averaging 80 degrees, no hassle with customs or money exchange, it’s the perfect venue to taste glob-al golf at its best. For those who resort to only the very best—here are some of Puerto Rico’s finest golf resorts, which combine superlative gameplay with world-class lodging, fabulous beaches, tantalizing cuisine, casino gaming and sizzlingnightlife. Trump International Golf Club (www.trumpgolfpuertorico.com)

Located on the northeastern shore, a short drive from San Juan, the newly inaugurated TrumpInternational Golf Club in Rio Grande (formerly Coco Beach Golf & Country Club), is the host venueof the Puerto Rico Open, a PGA Tour event. Golf course renovation of the former Coco Beach GolfClub converted four Tom Kite designed nines into two 18-hole championship-grade courses.Stretching over 1200 acres of dazzling waterfront property, each course meanders through mountains,palm groves, lakes and along ocean bluffs, offering panoramic views at every turn.

Linked to the Gran Melia family of resorts, this halcyon haven offers a cornucopia of pleasuresfor golfers and nongolfers alike: a lagoon-style swimming pool, in-house casino, and world-class spa.

Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa (www.wyndhamri-omar.com) A short drive east from the Trump will land you on the doorstep of the Rio Mar Beach Resort,

which lies at the base of El Yunque, the only rainforest of its kind in the US National Forest system.This Windham Grand Resort provides a total family vacation package on their magnificent 500-acrebeachfront estate. Its complete with two oceanfront swimming pools, spa, tennis, casino, array of culi-nary delights and of course, golf!

Rio Mar features two 18-hole championship courses. The Ocean Course, a Tom & George Faziodesign, is continually rated as one of the top courses in PR by Golf Digest. It lays claim to a par-3,240-yard signature hole (#16) that runs along the Atlantic, and is cited as one of the most beautifulyet challenging in the Caribbean, because fierce trade winds make golfers struggle with club choice.The wider, parallel fairways make the Ocean course more appealing to beginner golfers. Its sistercourse, designed by Greg Norman, aptly named The River Course, follows the twisting MameyesRiver, which comes into play on several holes. Although the corkscrew fairways and numerous water

features offer picturesque scenery, they demand precision ball striking, making this course one of the most challenging on the island.El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa (www.elconresort.com)

The island boasts a number of excellent resort courses, but by far, I found El Conquistador the most dramatic. This upmarket facility locat-ed near the eastern coastal town of Fajardo, sits atop a 300-foot bluff overlooking the ocean. Amongthe many amenities that top-shelf resorts offer, this resort boasts top-shelf entertainment, private vil-las, catamarans that whisk guests to the private Palomino Island for sunbathing, water sports, horse-back riding, and recently constructed Conqui Water Park.

However, the first dramatic sight you see upon entering this guarded facility is the uniquelydesigned golf course. This swank Arthur Hills layout moves you 200 vertical feet from start to fin-ish--rare among typically flat Caribbean golf courses--with inspiring views of the majestic El YunqueRainforest and crystal blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean (which you can see from fifteen holes). ElConquistador is not a course for beginners. The daunting hills, never-ending array of sloped fairways,uneven lies and complicated green complexes challenge the most accomplished golfer. With its dra-matic elevation change and climactic 18th hole where splashing fountains lead to a waterfall overwhich the last shot of the game is made, El Conquistador delivers golf with a flash-and-fanfare fewcourses in the Caribbean can rival. It recently was voted among Conde Nast Traveler’s “75 Top GolfResorts.

This resort sits close to some thrilling adventures available on the island -- the tropical El Yunque Rainforest, Rio Camuy Cave Park, andLaguna Grand, a bioluminescent bay known for its glow-in-the-dark waters. Palmas Del Mar Country Club (www.palmasdelmar.com)

Situated on six miles of PR’s eastern coastline in the town of Humacao, Palmas Del Mar Country Club offers the ultimate golf lifestyle. Aself-contained community with its own schools, marina, 18 restaurants, exclusive beach club, tennisclub, nine pools and equestrian center is a home-away-from-home for some. Guest lodging includesoceanfront villas or Four Points Sheraton Hotel, which embraces its own amenities including an in-house casino.

The two 18-hole courses at Palmas Del Mar were cunningly crafted to challenge a pro, but laidout so that even beginners can enjoy. The Flamboyan Course, a links-style designed by Rees Jones,and the Palm Course, a Gary Player creation, meander through wetlands, undulating palm-lined fair-ways and along the ocean creating different looks amid a tropical splendor. The Palm Course, themore difficult one, features more oceanside holes, multiple elevation changes, deceptively slopinggreens and steady trade winds that test players’ skill from drives to the short game.

Decide to explore beyond our shore… make Puerto Rico your next golf travel destination! Pam Borges is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and International Network of Golf.

She is a regular contributor for New England Golf Monthly (formally Bay State Golf) and a freelance writerfor the Golf Reporter and Golf Insider.


GOLF TRAVEL



Granite Links Golf Club at Quarry Hills

Located just 7 miles south of Boston, Granite Links is easily reached by locals and out of town visitors seeking to play this Golf Digest “Top Ten Best New Upscale Golf Course in the Country.”

www.granitelinksgolfclub.com 617-689-1900

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It has been rated by many as the toughest test in golf in the country and still holdsthe top position as one of the longest golf course in the world, quite simply it is just agreat golf course with a rich history. Of all the newly designed courses throughout thiscountry and the world the Pines Course still holds a mystique about it, which isspellbinding in the eyes of most mortal golfers. Lets face it the Pines comes in atnearly 8400 yards with a par 73, a rating of 80 and a slope of 154 which is just the

beginning.There are three par fours over 525 yards as well as three par three’s over 250 yards and

two par fives over 650 yards and a par six at 715 yards. This course brings a whole new meaning to “technology has short-ened the game of golf” you could not get home in two on some of these holes with a howitzer. Just the same this golf courseis a wonderfully designed facility that has deep roots in New England golf and is a fixture in the great history of this game.The International’s began its storied journey over 100 years ago in 1901 when the Pines course was designed as a short

nine hole golf course called Runaway Brook Golf Club. It is noted that the 66 acres of land was originally purchased for$1. In 1954 the club was purchased by Bert Suprenant who they hired Geoffrey Cornish to redesign the course as it existstoday with input from Francis Ouimet. In 1972 Robert Trent Jones Sr. was hired by the club to modify greens and bunkersto make the course even more challenging. Later on the Oaks Course, which was designed by Tom Fazio, rounded out the36 hole facility, completing, the only 36 hole private golf course in New England and one of the finest facilities nationwide.The name the Pines originated from the tall stately evergreens that line the course. This is a very peaceful place to play

golf surrounded by the quiet town of Bolton in the Nashua River Valley. If you come to the International bring you’re “A”game but more importantly bring what ever club you can hit straight and be patient, you will eventually get to that green.

There is one thing for sure , not many golf courses old or new will demand the respect and test of ones skills as thePines. We all should be very proud to have such a great facility right here in New England with such an international rep-utation for excellence. This is where the game of golf began in this country, it only seems fitting that one of the toughestcourses in the world is still right here. The Pines Course at The International, The #1 Test in Golf.


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NEW ENGLAND GOLF MONTHLY

Team New England On The Tours

Brad Faxon Billy Andrade

Brad Faxon Barrington, R.I.Joined Tour 1984PGA Tour Victories 82009 isBrads 26th year on the PGATour and nearly 18million dol-lars in earning make him the one to chase for PGA tour veteransfrom the New England region. He approaching NEGM Iron Manstatus even though he has had a long recovery from knee surgery.In five events this season so far Brad has not made a cut, but don’tcount him out yet. He knows how towin and is a proven top playerwho could break out at any time. If Kenny Perry can play at 49 andwin with the kids on the tour so can Barrington Brad.

Billy Andrade Bristol, R.I.Joined Tour 1988PGA Tour Victories 4Billy Andrade: In 2008 Billy finished with$243,490 dollars inearnings in 24 events and finished outside the top 125. So far in2009 he has played only three events and has yet to make a cut.Billy is trying to get back to the 2006 form that won him over amillion dollars on the tour and solidify a position for the next fewyears. Billy is still very strong in driving accuracy and sand playin the top 25 on tour in both categories but his iron play and put-ting have hurt his scoring average in the last year.

Brett Quigley Patrick Sheehan

Brett Quigley Ft. Devens, MaJoined Tour 1991PGA Tour Victories 1Brett Quigley: Bret ended up 2008 with a solid year earning$878,216 and finishing 72nd in FedEx Cup Points and 120th onthemoney list, a great year overall with 2 top tens and 7 top 25 fin-ishes. In 2009 so far Brett has played in 4 events onlymaking onecut in the FBROpen in Scottsdale and finished with a solid 66 onthe final day. Earning for this year is currently at just over $20,000.Look for Brett to get it going on the Florida swing.

Patrick Sheehan Providence, R.I.Joined Tour 2002PGA Tour Victories 02008 was a solid season for Patrick with over $800,000 in earn-ings but ended up just outside the top 125 by just three spots at128.In 2009 Patrick has played in just two events The Buickand TheAT&T at Pebble Beach and has been unable to make acut thus far. Look for Patrick to get it going soon, he is a strongcompetitor and will play well this year watch Patrick pick it upbefore the next reshuffle.

Brad Adamonis James Driscoll

Brad Adamonis Cumberland, R.I.Joined Tour 2008PGA Tour Victories 1Brad Adamonis: Brad finished his Rookie season off at $862,413dollars in winnings and made the top 125 in his first season on thetour. Goal number one as a rookie was achieved, a job well done.Like 2008 Brad had a quick start out of the gate and shot 26 underpar in theBobHope for a 9th place finish, a top ten in his first event.In his first 5 events he hasmade 4 cuts and earned $173,184 and sitsat number 69 on the money list for 2009. He will start back thisweek at the Honda Classic in Palm Beach.

James Driscoll Brookline, MaJoined Tour 2002PGA Tour Victories 1James Driscoll: In 2008 James earned $708,549.00 for the yearand ended up outside the top 125 at 141 on the money list. Intwo events in 2009 the Buick and The AT&T at Pebble BeachJim made the cut and earned $23,364 dollars. In 2008 Jim hadstrong finishes in his last 2 months of the year. He is workingto get better status in the reshuffle after the Florida swing. Jimhad a good year in 2008 making 15 cuts look for him to bebound.

J.J. Henry Dana Quigley

J.J. Henry: Fairfield, CT.Joined Tour 2001PGA Tour Victories 1J.J. Henry : In 2008 he has played in 27 events and made 13cuts and earned $931,162 dollars and finishing 111 on the PGAtour money list. He is back at it in 2009 making three cuts infour events thus far and getting in the top 25 twice. In 2009 hehas earned $186,687 dollars already in just 4 events. He sits at63 on the tour money list and is the top earning PGA playerfrom the New England region so far this year. He has been aconsistent player on the tour for the last five years, look formore of the same.

Dana Quigley Lynfield, MaJoined Tour 1980PGA Tour Victories 3

Dana Quigley: The Ironman in 2008 built his war chest by$450,195.00 on the Champions Tour and finished 41st on themoney list. Thus far Dana has played in the last two events TheAllianz and The Ace Group Classic and earned just over$10,000 in winnings. In his career. Dana has now earned over14.5 million dollars on the Tour and is the number three in alltime earnings. In April Dana turns 62 and those that know himwell say he has only a few more decades left on the tour.

Elizabeth Janangelo Hartford, Ct.Joined LPGA Tour 2008

Elizabeth Janangelo:In 2008 her rookie year on the LPGA tourLiz has played in 18 tournaments and made the cut in 8 of themearning $34,025 which left her at 147 on the money list at sea-sons end. She has only conditional status on the Tour in 2009and has yet to play in any event. Anna Grzebien

Anna Grzebien Point Judith, R.I.Joined LPGA Tour 2008

Anna Grzebien: In her rookie season had condition status onthe LPGA Tour and earned $39,109. Dollars in winnings fin-ishing 142 on the money list. In 2009Anna has full status on theTour and has played in just one event to date The SBS Open atTurtle Bay where she finished T75 for just over $2000.00 inwinnings. 2009 will be her first full status year on the tour, wewill be watching Anna.

On ThePGA Tour

On The LPGA Tour

Liz Janangelo

On The Champions Tour

J.J. Henry

New England Golf Monthly Tour PlayerOf The Month

Congratulations to J.J.Henry


NEW ENGLAND JUNIOR GOLF

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The New England PGA, which runs the Titleist Junior Tour and Titleist TournamentPlayers Tour, will be running the U.S. Kids Golf Boston Local Tour this upcomingsummer. Local Tours are designed to allow boys and girls, ages 4 to 12, an opportunityto compete against kids their own age and gender on courses set up for ageappropriate play where parents or other family members are encouraged to participateas caddies. 29 Local Tours will be in operation this summer and some of the othercities include Atlanta, Chicago, Baton Rouge, Cincinnati, Phoenix, Columbus (OH),Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Orlando.

Bryan Leskowitz, Manager of Junior Golf Operations for the New England PGA, will bethe Local Tour Director of the Boston Local Tour and newly this year the Rhode IslandLocal Tour. The host sites are TBA. An unique component to U.S. Kids GolfCompetition is parents are encouraged to caddy for their juniors which makes this avery family oriented experience if parents are looking to do something different thissummer with their children.

A Local Tour consists of 8 one-day tournaments including a season ending Local TourChampionship. Local Tour Players of the Year in each of the 12 age/gender groups(who play in at least 4 of that Local Tour's events and meet the scoring requirement)will receive a coveted exemption into the 2009 U.S. Kids World Championship inPinehurst, N.C.,as well as an invitation to compete in a U.S. Kids Golf RegionalChampionship. This year’s World Championship is expecting over 1200 kids from 47states and 32 countries. As of late July, membership of the Boston Local Tour reached155 children and all tournaments are full. This places Boston as one of the leaders inreaching younger children across the nation within the U.S. Kids Golf Tours.

NEWAGE DIVISION FOR 2009!!

Starting this season, we will be opening up registration for 18-21 year olds. Wewill call this the Graduates Division. We feel that this will provide these playersthe opportunity to prepare for collegiate athletics, as well as assist them in thegrowth of the game.For NEPGA Junior Tour Membership registration ($125) please visit:www.NEPGA.com and you will receive some great tee gifts along with adiscount on Junior Tour and TPT events

March 28Junior Match Play Championship -Qualifying

Entry Fee: Members $65, Non Members $70

Various Sites – MA & RI Entry Deadline: March 21Boys 15-18, Boys 14 & Under, Girls Open www.uschallengecup.orgMarch 29 Players advance from previous roundJunior Match Play Championship – MatchPlay

Woodland Greens GC – North Kingstown, RI Boys 15-18, Boys 14 & Under, Girls Open www.uschallengecup.orgApril 4 Players advance from previous roundJunior Match Play Championship – MatchPlay

Newport CC – Newport, RI Boys 15-18, 14 & Under, Girls Open www.uschallengecup.orgApril 5Scott Robertson Sectional Qualifier Entry Fee: $65Swansea CC – Swansea, MA Entry Deadline: March 27Boys 15-18, Boys 13-14 www.uschallengecup.orgApril 10 InvitationalJunior Preview Championship Entry Fee: Members $50, Non Members $55Montaup CC – Portsmouth, RI Entry Deadline: March 27Boys 16-18, 14-15, 13 & Un, Girls Open www.uschallengecup.orgApril 11 Players advance from previous roundJunior Match Play Championship – MatchPlay

Rhode Island CC – Barrington, RI Boys 15-18, 14 & Under www.uschallengecup.orgApril 13-14Challenge Cup Championship Entry Fee: $45Alpine CC – Cranston, RI Entry Deadline: April 6Boys High School, Middle School, GirlsOpen

www.uschallengecup.org

April 15Adamonis Cup Entry Fee: $150 per teamCranston CC – Cranston, RI Entry Deadline: April 8Top 8 Teams RIIL www.uschallengecup.orgApril 18-19FCWT Red Tail Golf Open Entry Fee: $379Red Tail GC – Devens, MA Entry Deadline: March 13Boys 16-18, Boys 13-15, Girls 13-18 www.fcwtgolf.comApril 18-19IJGT Gillette Ridge Entry Fee: $355Gillette Ridge GC – Bloomfield, CT Entry Deadline: March 13Boys 16-19, 13-15, 12 & Un, Girls 13-18 www.ijgt.comApril 19 HS players must play with teammatesJohnson & Wales Team Challenge Entry Fee: $50Firefly GC - Seekonk, MA Entry Deadline: April 14High School, Boys 13-14, 12 & Un, GirlsOpen

www.uschallengecup.org

April 19 Players advance from previous roundJunior Match Play Championship – MatchPlay

Ledgemont CC – Seekonk, MA Boys 15-18 www.uschallengecup.orgApril 20Hornblower Junior Classic Entry Fee: Members $45, Non-Members $50New England CC – Bellingham, MA Entry Deadline: April 13Boys 14-18, Boys 13 & Under, Girls Open www.uschallengecup.orgApril 23-24 InvitationalTournament Players’ Championship Entry Fee: $150 includes cart feesPoint Judith CC – Narragansett, RIWarwick CC – Warwick, RI Entry Deadline: April 13Open, Legends, Junior www.uschallengecup.orgApril 25 InvitationalNew England Junior Ryder Cup Entry Fee: $60Ledgemont CC – Seekonk, MA Entry Deadline: April 13Boys 13-18 www.uschallengecup.orgApril 26 Players advance from previous roundJunior Match Play Championship Wannamoisett CC – Rumford, RI Boys 15-18 www.uschallengecup.org

Junior Golf Schedule March & April 2009

THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP The PGA TOUR’s “Bigness” EpitomizedBy Barry J Palm

JayMonahan is man on a mission. As vice president and tournament director for THE PLAYERS Championship, he has the formi-dable undertaking to maintain the status of THE PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl, as the premierevent on the PGA TOUR. He’s also charged with ensuring that the tournament, set for May 7-10 on Florida’s First Coast outsideJacksonville, continues its lobbying efforts as one of golf’s majors, although this is not an official “charge” for Jay. THE PLAYERS hadthe biggest purse ($9.5 million in 2008), and traditionally brings together the best field in golf.But purse, venue, and field strength do not a major make. It takes tradition and the tacit approval of golf writers who determine these

things. Nonetheless,THEPLAYERScontinues to build on these intangible tenets year after year to assume its rightful place amonggolf’stournament elite.Monahan is a former executivewith the BostonRed Sox organization and recent tournament

director for the PGATOUR’s Deutsche Bank Championship in the Bay State. Now, as THEPLAYERS vice president and executive director, the transplanted NewEnglander residing in the heart of Dixie is becoming accli-mated to the South having traded clam “chowda” for Mayport shrimp.

As tournamentdirector, heoversees everyaspect of the championship fromcourse set-upandplayingconditions, player needsand their familes’ requests, placating and accommodating corporate sponsors, managing more than 200 committees, a legion ofvolunteers, directing community relations activities, tournament logistics, and a plethora of other responsibilities too numerous tomention here. All the while being under the microscope of PGATOURCommissioner, Tim Finchem, and senior TOUR staff ontheir home turf. But above all else, perhaps,Monahan has to tackle the formidable task of insuring that charity contributionsmeetor exceed the $3 million level set in 2008. Not easily done in today’s unsettled economy.

Yet, in his new role, he remains undeterred when promoting THE PLAYERS and is extremely optimistic. “I am very pos-itive about our event this year thanks largely to the commitment of our presenting sponsors and the exposure that NBC’s television package affords us to a global audience,”

saidMonahan. “Florida’s First Coast is a fantastic place with the many amenities and the lifestyle the area has to offer, and one ofmy goals is to see that THE PLAYERS continues be an ambassador for promoting the region as well as maintaining its position asthe premier championship on the TOUR.”

When Commissioner Finchem coined the phrase “Bigness” in professional golf back in the late 90’s, he certainly had the tour-nament in his own backyard in mind. Everything about the THE PLAYERS is big…from the opulent brand new 70,000 squarefoot clubhouse to the 7,200 yard layout designed by Pete Dye that optimizes spectacular spectator viewpoints from all angles on thegolf course.Couple numerous corporate hospitality staging opportunities with the fan-friendly natural “stadium” seating scattered across the

TPC course, and you’ve got a winning recipe for a big event. The tournament annually attracts more than 40,000 golf fans per day.Not quite the numbers the FBROpen in Phoenix enjoys, but THE PLAYERS limits its ticket sales on a daily basis tomaximize the

enjoyment of the few, the proud, and the golf-hearty ticket holder.Of course, TPC Sawgrass is internationally known for its par-3 17th hole – the famous island green where PLAYERS Championships have been decided since its

inceptionmore than 25 years ago. It’s the holewhere scores of golf balls untimely splash down during the event occasionally sinking the hopes of potential championswithjust one hole to play.

Just ask Jacksonville native son and local favorite, Len Mattiace. In 1998 with just two holes to play, and leading the tournament on his home turf, Mattiace hit twoballs in the water and made 8 and finished T-5. [Justin Leonard won the event].

There is a sign on the teeing ground that says, “After hitting two balls in the water, please proceed to the drop area.” No one paysattention to it. Consider this:. More than 100,000 golf balls every year find a watery grave as a result of errant tee shots from amateurswho pay a hefty price for a round on the StadiumCourse and the pleasure of loosing a couple of Titleists in themurky swampwater thatsurrounds the diabolical green.

The 17th hole of TPC Sawgrass is just one hole in what are arguably among the most exciting four finishing holes on the PGATOUR tournament schedule. “It’s golf’s greatest stage,” says Monahan referring to holes 15-18 at Sawgrass. “I can’t think of a bettervenue for a more exciting and unpredictable scenario in golf,” he adds. Indeed, the thrill of winning nearly $2 million as THE PLAY-ERS Champion and all the benefits and playing exemptions that come with the title, more than compensate for any potential agony ofdefeat on these closing holes. Talk about your adrenalin rush. In truth, it epitomizes what is most exciting about the PGATOUR.

Visitors to Ponte Vedra Beach can experience the same excitement of a round on the Stadium Course under the identical playingconditions TOUR players enjoy inMay. Contact PGATOUR Experiences at 800-766-7939 or visit www.pgatourexperinces.com to arrange an affordable package with avariety of stay and play options. They can also arrange packages at all the nearly two dozen other courses in the TPCNetwork as well.

When Fred Funk secured his place in THEPLAYERS history by becoming the oldest winner at age 48, he outwitted his rivals with some precision golf.With his vic-tory, the Ponte Vedra Beach resident declared, "I can't comprehend how big this really is for me. They can't take it away fromme. I always will cherish this win."

Whomever wins THE PLAYERS this year remains to be seen, but Jay Monahan is optimistic that the event will better than ever. “I have a mandate to maintain theintegrity and tradition of THE PLAYERS, and every indication is that we are on track to do just that,” saysMonahan. “With the help of our volunteers, the support of thecommunity and our corporate partners, not to mention the commitment of my dedicated staff, there’s no reason why the 2009 PLAYERSwon’t be the best event in its sto-ried history.” If his beloved Red Sox can win twoWorld Series so far this decade, there’s no reason to doubt him.

baystategolfinc.com May 2008 23

PGA TOUR NEWS


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The bounce on the sand wedge is the flange on the sole that extendsbelow the leading edge. It holds the key to you becoming a consistentbunker player. Here’s how to bounce your way onto the green.

TILT THE GRIP Play the ball up in your stanceeven with your left heel. Set up with the grip of the clubpointed behind your belt buckle. You’ll know if you’vegot the correct position if the club shaft is roughly paral-lel to your left leg. This lays the face back and exposesthe bounce to the sand. You don’t want to open the face.With your wedge’s bounce pre-set like this you will beable to hit behind and into the sand with little concern ofthe leading edge hitting first.

WITH THE HANDS On the downswing, lead the bounce intoimpact with your hands which allow for maximum effect. The bounceprevents the club from digging to deep into the sand, sodon’t worry about hitting it fat. Go ahead and make anaggressive swing, and follow all the way through. Theball will float out on a cushion of sand.

HIGH OR LOWAfter you get a better feel for theshot you can start adjusting how much you lay the clubback to hit different length and height shots. Laying itback more will hit is shorter and higher. Laying it backless will hit it farther and lower.

BOUNCE OUT OF BUNKERSBy Brad ReadingPGA Professional

GAME IMPROVEMENT & READING


Bob Skurka

Fore ThoughtMental Tips For a Better Golf Game

“A Zone Of Your Own”by Bob Skura

Paul Goydos had a zone experience in the 2008 Tour Championship.How else do you explain the 169th ranked player leading the best prosin the world for four days? Sergio Garcia also found the zone. His driv-ing accuracy was 80.5 percent, the best in the field that week despite hisyearly average of 58.8 percent. Not to be outdone Jeff Quiney claimedin an interview with reporter Mark Rolfing to have had that special feel-ing too. But how can this be? Isn’t a zone experience limited to the per-son who wins an event?No. These men got into a zone of their own because they performed

at a level of excellence measured against their own achievements ratherthan those of other people. Goydos achieved it by hitting his baby fade.Quiney did it with his chicken wing pre-shot routine and Sergio did itwith determination. You can have zone experiences too if you under-stand that it’s really not magic.Research by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Ph.D., tells us that the condi-

tions common to zone experiences are feedback, clear goals, challengesmatched to ability, concentration, unselfconsciousness, time distortion,self control and total absorption. Very importantly they all work togeth-er like a team of horses. When one condition advances it pulls the oth-ers along.

Let’s say you face a task that appears to be overwhelming. If youbreak it down into portions small enough for you to handle you’ll makea start that is matched to your ability. This approach will give you clearfeedback and direct your next step. Accurate feedback will lead to smallsuccesses helping you to repeat the cycle and draw you in so deeply thatyou’ll keep advancing while hardly noticing.So start anywhere you want. Improve your goals, feedback, self-con-

trol or any other condition and the others will follow. Your developingskills will allow you to knock on the door of zone experiences moreoften and occasionally it’ll open. Bob Skura is author of the award-win-ning book, How Great Golfers Think – Perfecting Your Mental Game.For more information visit: www.howgreatgolfersthink.com

From February toApril 2007, starting with his play-by-play call of Super Bowl XLI, Jim Nantz had a historic 63-day broadcasting run as he became the first commentator tobroadcast the Super Bowl, the NCAA Final Four, and theMasters® all in the same year. Yet the man who inspiredhim to pursue his broadcasting dream, his father, wasunable to share the voyage with him. In Always By My Side: A Father'sGrace and a Sports Journey Unlike Any Other, 2007 Sportscaster of theYearNantz recounts how he felt his father’s presence every step of the way – andthrough this championship journey, he celebrates the people and momentsthat tap into all the goodness that his dad – and his dad’s generation – repre-sent.

Always By My Side traces Nantz’s career, from creating his own imagi-nary TV studio he created as a boy to his college days rooming with futurePGA Tour golfers to his chance meeting with NBC Sports producer DonOhlmeyer that started him on a path that led to a successful CBS networkaudition at the age of 26. Along the way, he remembers his friendships withsuch sports royalty as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, PhilMickelson, Peyton Manning, Tony Dungy, Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, MikeKrzyzewski, and Bill Walton – as well as Hollywood A-listers like ClintEastwood and Sean Connery, all the time remaining humble and grateful forthe opportunity to be afforded such an amazing life.

Nantz also recalls father-figures he found throughout his life when hisown ailing father was unable to be physically with him: George H.W. Bush,Ken Venturi, Jim McKay, Pat Summerall, Billy Packer, Frank Chirkinian,and others.

Ultimately, Always By My Side is a collection of poignant stories thatexplore the theme of fathers and sons who have bonded through a commonlove of sports. It turns every day into Father’s Day.

Always By My SideAFather'sGraceandaSportsJourneyUnlikeAnyOther

Jim Nantz - Author

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TRAVELERS CHAMPIONSHIPCELEBRATES TITLE SPONSOR-SHIP EXTENSION THROUGH 2014

HARTFORD, Conn. - Governor M. Jodi Rell, Travelers executives,PGATOUR executives, Connecticut business leaders, multiple charitiesand Travelers Championship organizers gathered today in Hartford toannounce and celebrate the extension of Travelers' title sponsorship ofthe Travelers Championship through 2014. During today's announce-ment, it was also revealed that Governor M. Jodi Rell would serve asHonorary Chairwoman for the 2009 Travelers Championship.

"Now, more than ever, our state can truly benefit from the positiveeconomic impact and charity funds that result from this tournament. Asone of just 21 states to host a PGA TOUR event, our community isindebted to Travelers for their commitment to this event, which bringssuch tremendous benefits to our community," said Governor Rell. "I'dlike to commend Travelers for their commitment to the community andalso note that this event cannot be fueled by Travelers alone. This tour-nament presents an opportunity for everyone to be involved, rangingfrom fans to volunteers to corporate sponsors. I hope residents willattend as fans and I urge businesses to carefully consider how they cansuccessfully utilize the event. With statewide support, this tournamentwill continue to grow and to have an even greater impact on our com-munity each year. I am honored for the opportunity to take on the role ofHonorary Chairwoman and I truly hope everyone will consider a way tobe involved as well."

The Travelers Championship contributes 100% of net proceeds toConnecticut charities, primarily The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp,which serves children suffering from cancer and other serious diseases,and the Greater Hartford Jaycees, a leadership development and com-munity service organization. In addition, the tournament offers fundrais-er programs so that every charity in the state may utilize the event as away to raise funds."The PGATOUR is an incredibly unique professional sporting event,

in that every ticket purchased, parking fee paid or sponsorship investedhas a direct tie to the amount of funds this event is able to generate forConnecticut charities. Therefore, I am happy to share today's announce-ment with our fans by providing a great reason to purchase a TravelersChampionship ticket now. In celebration of Travelers extension through2014 and to kick off our charitable fundraising, the tournament will offerall general admission tickets for just $14 for the next 14 days," saidTournament Director Nathan Grube.

Complete details on the 2009 Travelers Championship and orderinginformation about the special ticket offer are available now onwww.TravelersChampionship.com .



A few years ago, I wrote a column criticizing CBS golf sportscaster Jim Nantz. Thegist of the critique was that Nantz was very blasé and even kind of boring in his approach.In response to the column, CBS Sports and News president Sean McManus emailed tovoice his displeasure at the column.

It made me wonder if I was missing something. Time hasshown that I was. The versatile Nantz covers golf and otherevents with an understated grace that has become the exception,not the rule in sports television.

Nantz has no catch phrases, no desire to exceed the volumeof a police siren and no political agenda. In this the age of “Lookat me, I’m on TV!” sportscasters, Nantz has become a fascinat-ing anomaly.

“I never will go there,” says Nantz, whose 2008 book“Always By My Side: A Father’s Grace and a Sports Journey UnlikeAny Other” climbedto #3 on the New York Times Bestseller list. “For young kids who want to break into thebusiness, there is a feeling that you have to be goofy or, in some similar way, attention-grabbing.

“There is this in-your-face attitude that many sportscasters have, like they are on thebrink of a tantrum. If you look at them the wrong way, they will explode.”

Nantz compares his own style to that of Patriots coach Bill Belichick. He states,“Belichick is a wonderful role model for his players and the public. It is a rarity to see mensucceed in a role of leadership without raising their voices. He barely talks above a whis-per. He doesn’t cheapen the message by falling back on a swear word. He is a dignified,distinguished gentleman.”

In the winter and spring of 2007, Nantz enjoyed a 63-day stretch that saw him workSuper Bowl XLI, the NCAAmen’s hoop tournament and the Masters. This year, he willagain work the latter two. In all these endeavors, he maintains a terrific consistency.

“I don’t say, ‘It’s time to turn on my football voice.’ It’s more of a natural thing. If thecrowd is stirred to frenzy, you talk louder to cut through it. In golf, we are only a few yardsaway from the action. Sometimes, we get ridiculed for whispering, but if not, we’d be dis-turbing play.”

Nantz has won multiple National Sportscaster of the YearAwards, including the 2008honor. He has covered a vast array of events including the Olympics, US Open Tennis andthe NBA, but he considers golf the most difficult to broadcast, this from a man who haspartnered on the course with former Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton.

“Golf broadcasters get the least amount of credit,” says Nantz, who will turn 50 inMay. “It’s the most difficult sport to do. When you are at the 18th hole and you have 20-minute stretches to fill, it’s a challenge to hold the audience’s attention. Media writersdon’t watch golf, so it doesn’t count to them. They wouldn’t recognize the work ifShakespeare was in the booth.”

With his unique class and unquestioned versatility, Nantz has become our genera-tion’s Curt Gowdy, a compliment he relishes. “I was smitten by the voices in my livingroom on weekends,” says Nantz, who played golf and graduated from the University ofHouston in 1981, and started his career at CBS at the age of 26 in 1985.

“Before there was cable TV, ESPN or VCR’s, broadcasters had a knowledge of lan-guage and did not draw attention to themselves. There was an elegance to the broadcastsof men like Gowdy, Ray Scott, Jack Whittaker, Dick Enberg and Jack Buck. They werestorytellers with a graceful style. I have a reverence for this profession.”

Nantz, a Fairfield County, Connecticut resident, moved from CBS “NFLToday” stu-dio host to lead NFL play-by-play announcer in 2004. Change has become natural to theveteran broadcaster. “Sean McManus wanted me to do it. He thought I should be doinggames.

“I’ve been at CBS for 22 years and we used to have all the major events. We acquiredMajor League Baseball in 1990 and it was a bad deal for the network. I lost a lot of col-leagues.” Nantz has seen it all at CBS and has climbed to the top of his profession, shar-ing that current rarified air with an elite trio of contemporaries, Al Michaels, Bob Costasand Joe Buck.

Michaels is the best football play-by-play man in the business, but he cannot matchNantz’s studio hosting skills or versatility. Buck’s forays into what he considers humor andcommentary detract from his overall performance. The same can be said of Costas who,while immensely gifted, tends to impose himself on a story too frequently.

Nantz’s approach to a big game or tournament is typically cerebral. “This is how I seeit. On Sunday, I’m going to watch a football game with a great friend of mine, Phil Simms.Oh, and there will also be 100 million people eavesdropping.”

While football holds its lofty place in American sports culture, Nantz’s voice hasbecome synonymous with golf. The game is indelibly woven into his life, from his collegeroommates and future PGATour stars Fred Couples, Blaine McCallister and John Horne,to his personal friendships with Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Ken Venturi, Tiger Woodsand Phil Mickelson, to his prominent role in Kevin Costner’s 1996 golf film “Tin Cup.”

Moreover, golf served as a means for Nantz to cope with his father Jim’s battle withAlzheimer’s disease. In fact, Nantz dreamed of having his dad accompany him on hisSuper Bowl, March Madness and Masters grand tour, but the illness precluded that dreamfrom becoming a reality. Nantz’s father eventually succumbed to the disease in June of2008.Still, the love of sports ingrained in the younger Nantz is eternal.At the end of the book,

Nantz surveys the Mt. Holly, North Carolina place where his dad would be laid to rest andstates, “In one panoramic sweep, I could take in most of the formative sites of my father’syouth. I could hear the sounds that made him happy, from the cheering of the fans to thespirited football fight songs. It all felt so right.”The same can be said of Nantz’s voice and the love of sport that lies within its tones

and sentiments.John Molori is a syndicated columnist and hosts the “J-Team Radio Show” at AM

980 WCAP and jteamradio.com. Email John at [email protected].

MOLORI UNPLUGGEDBy John Molori

Nantz shoots straight and true frombroadcast booth


GOLF FASHION

Good Looks on the CourseBy Elle Brec

Theuniversalattraction to thegameofgolf ismuch like thatofBarackObama in that it has the ability to transcend generations, gender, class,race,andgeographical locations.Therisingpopularityofgolffashionhasbecome so remarkable that people are nowwearing golf-inspired looksoff-the-course such as argyle patterns, polo shirts made with innovativefabrics, golf inspiredaccessories, andbrandsdevelopedbyPGAplayers.The game was made for expression, what better backdrop for color

than the absolute serene beauty of dark green fairways and lush green-ery. Golf is one of the only sportswhere the player is allowed to choosetheir own uniform. It’s time to get away from the vision of four guyswearing the same plain polo shirts with khakis and embrace new cloth-ing trends. Professional and amatuer alike, which is better a great swinglooking sharp or just a great swing? Look better, feel better, play better.Traditionally the sportwas played in heavywool and cotton clothing

thatrestrictedmovementandlackedtheflexibilityofmoderndayfabrics.While woolen knickers may have been a sign of the times in the earlydaysofgolf, fabricsandstyleshaveevolved toenable theplayer toadaptto almost all playing conditions and temperatures. Technology has pro-duced moisture wicking fabrics to stay dry, breathable fabrics to staycool, fabricswith uvprotection to block sunlight, stretch fabrics for flex-ibility, softer fabrics for comfort, sleeker cuts for appeal, invisibondinginstead of stitching for better performance, gear that is completelywaterproof, jacketswith vents for regulatedwarmth, and zipper pocketsfor added convience. The possibilites are endless, you name it and it’sout there.DougSanderswasoneof theearlypioneersof extremecolorwithhis

nicknamePeacockof theFairways. Everyone remembers, he had shoesdyed specifically to match the color he was wearing that day. IanPoulters followed wearing a pink shirt with matching pink pants, pinkshoes, pink hat, and pink golf bag. Paula Creamer may look stunningin this outfit, but for some reasonPoulter can not pull it off quite aswell.Men do look attractive in pink shirts, but limit this to the only pink itemof clothingyouown. Onecould argue theydressed thisway todistract,annoy, or intimidate their opponents. Invision a classy gray shirt thatappears silver when it catches the sun. A piece of advice, never wearpants that look like theyweremade fromanational flag! WhenPoulterwears outfits that are not as radical he can look stylish. The uniquedesignsonhis clothing, boldcolors, andplaidpantsmakeshim look likehecouldbeagolf fashionmodel. JesperParnevikalsodressesabsolute-ly fabulously with the exception of his flipped brim hat. He makes itwork, but it should not be imitated.TigerWoods, SergioGarcia,AaronBaddeley, andAnthonyKim are

the leaders in setting the fashion statements of today. If you are lookingfor fashion inspiration, check out the outfits. Admit it, you have a cer-tain power color or style that you feel most comfortable in to play yourbest. Or one you wear to intimidate your opponents for an importantround. Who doesn’t want to be like Tiger in his famous red polo onSundays?

The best dressed women golfers include Natalie Gulbis, PaulaCreamer, Michelle Wie, and Christie Kerr. Their form fitting apparelcomprised of bright colors, skirts, and matching accessories give themtheperfect athletic yet chic look. AnnaRawson also has excellent fash-ion sense, she has striking similarities to Anna Kornikova with theircareers transitioning frommodels to athletes.At thisyear’sPGAshowNike,Adidas,Calloway,Norman,Ecco, and

Ping showcased their new line of men’s apparel which are consistantlytop quality and the most popular brands.. Standouts of the show weresmaller companies. Brands likeQuagmire, TravisMatthews, Sligo, andCapito, showcased new innovative colors and textures for 2009. Forladies, Lija, Nike, Nicole Miller, and Puma lead the way with some ofthe.Accessorizing in golf is importantwith shoes, belts, hats, umbrellas,head covers, and golf bags with matching handbags. Also for 2009,high fashion brands are releasing new golf apparel and accessory lines,names such asChanel, Gucci, andBurberry.It’s a new time for the game, it’s hot, it’s exciting, art hasmet expres-

sion in golf. In 2009 atAugustaNational, instead of the traditionalwhitecaddycoverallsmaybe they shouldgowithbrightyellowwithgreen let-tering. A bad day at golf looking great is better than just a bad day atgolf, that 19th hole simply feels better. Then after you earned thoseBirdies, insteadof theusualGreygoose, in the spirit of the thememakeaswitch to Malibu’s Parrot Bay. And hey Mr. President what's up withthose khakis and cotton polo?For fashion [email protected]. President

Barack Obama

Natalie Gulbis

Paula Creamer

Michelle Wei

Tiger Woods

Sergio Garcia

Ian Poulter

PayneStewart

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Best in theMarkerplace,Vermont Stay & PlayBy Wayne Mills

Vermont is well known for its great ski resorts forgood reason. What might be a little less well known ismany of those ski resorts also have great golf coursesassociated with them.Also, while Vermont is known forits winter and fall foliage seasons, summer turnsVermont into a lush, green, Garden of Eden with warmdays and cool mountain evenings.

Starting in Southern Vermont in the Mount SnowRegion you will find the Mount Snow Country Club in West Dover. Designedby the dean of New England architects, Geoffrey Cornish, Mount Snow is achallenging up and down mountain course.

Slightly down the valley is a hidden gem, Haystack Golf Club, inWilmington. Although built on a ridge area, this Desmond Muirhead designplays on reasonably level terrain except the exhilarating par 5 11th hole that has

a “hit-off-the world” tee shot that drops 200’ in eleva-tion. Great views and a great staff headed by Head ProJack Tosone ensure an enjoyable visit.

Headed north up the eastern slope of the GreenMountains is the gorgeous 27 hole Stratton MountainCountry Club. Located just below the ski area andmountain village, Stratton rolls and tumbles over hillsand brooks and around lakes all the while keeping the

ski slopes in view.Traveling further north along the mountains brings you to the town of

Ludlow, home to Okemo Mountain Resort and Okemo Valley Golf Club.Okemo Valley was designed by Vermont native Steve Durkee and opened ear-lier this decade to rave reviews. Located across Route 103 from the ski area, thecourse winds itself up and across the ridge in an artful way without creating agreat many uphill or downhill hikes. The golf club is runby Jim Remy, the current PGA of America President.

Heading up Route 103 from Ludlow will bring youto the Rutland area which includes the giant KillingtonResort. The ski area, known as the Beast of the East,includes the 18 hole Killington Golf Club, an early1980’s Geoffrey Cornish design that is a true mountaingolf course replete with big elevation changes and a fewblind shots. Although not technically affiliated with themountain the Town of Killington owned Green Mountain National Golf Course

is a great take while in the area. True to its ski resort pedigree,Killington is an area that likes to party. You’ll find many a funvenue along the Access Road heading to the mountain basearea from Route 4.Taking Route 100 north from Killington along the eastern

edge of the Green Mountains will bring you to the incredibleMad River Valley and the Sugarbush Resort. Boasting thefirst ski resort golf course in the state, the Sugarbush GolfCourse was designed by the legendary course architectRobert Trent Jones, Sr and opened in 1962. The current resortowners have made substantial improvements to the courseover the past several years and if you want true mountain golf

in all it’s full blown beauty then Sugarbush is a must play. TheMad RiverValleyis a mix of charming towns and villages with inns, restaurants and pubs forevery palette. It is Vermont at its purest and completely free of any fast food orother franchises.

Again heading north on Route 100 and across Interstate 89, will bring youto our final destination, the Stowe Mountain Resort. Many visitors considerStowe Vermont’s finest resort area. Home to the VonTrapp Family Lodge, Stowe has a decided Europeanalpine area feel. Home to the highest peak in Vermont,Mount Mansfield at 4,393 feet above sea level, the skiarea has been in operation since the 1930’s.

For golf, Stowe has two excellent options; theStowe Country Club, a 1950’s era William Mitchelldesign, located down in town, and the incredible newStowe Mountain Club located at the base of the SprucePeak portion of the ski area. Opened in 2008, the Bob Cupp designed StoweMountain Club is a rollicking uphill, downhill, side hill adventure with superbconditions and first class service. The views across to Mount Mansfield areworth the price of admission alone. If you’re feeling kind of flush, stay at theultra elegant Spruce Peak Lodge and enjoy a truly 5 star experience.

Anyone visiting Vermont in the summer will not only enjoy the manyresort golf courses but the quiet, casual, and relaxed atmosphere of the GreenMountain State.

Call Allan Newman at516.680.5986 or visit www.JetBlueChallenge.com

You are invited to Step Up to The Challenge! Announcing The 2009JetBlue Challenge Program.

All of our Golf Tournament Packages Include aJetBlue 5-day/4-night golf vacationfor two as a hole-in-one prize.

Certain JBC prize packages come with round-triptravel on JetBlue Airways, 3-day Vacation Getaways,Fairway & Greene Golf shirts and various Callawaygolf product to give away as you wish.

We Challenge You to ask your current golftournament provider to match or beat our programs,and when they say that they cannot, contact us!

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WILTON, Maine -Harris Golf, the Bath, Maine-based coursedeveloper and club operator, has acquired Wilson Lake Country Clubhere in Wilton, thereby rescuing another classic-but-distressed Mainegolf club from the uncertainties of receivership.The Board of Directors at Wilson Lake Country Club had for sev-

eral years faced the prospect of dwindling revenues and growingdebt. Board chair Alan Morison summed it up best: “Our expensesare much more than our income,” he said prior to the sale. “We can’tafford to keep it going.”The recent financial turmoil renderedWilson Lake’s situation even

more dire, and so the Board voted Feb. 1 to approve the club’s sale toHarris Golf for $249,500. Harris Golf has entered into a purchase andsale agreement and will assume ownership sometime in mid-March,according to Harris Golf Vice President Jason Harris .“The way we do business, we really consider ownership as a form

of stewardship,” Harris explained. “We'll operate the club as a semi-private facility, servicing both the members and the public. We'regoing to return the club to the original vision of [course architect]Wayne Stiles via a low-key form of restoration."26 March 2009 newenglandgolfmonthly.com

GOLF INDUSTRY

GCSANE Elects Board of Directors

NORTON, Mass. – The Golf Course Superintendents Association of NewEngland elected its new slate of officers for the 2009 season.Patrick J. Daly, CGCS of Framingham County Club will serve as President;

Jason S.Adams of Blue Hill Country Club as Vice President; Russell E. Heller,CGCS of Franklin Park Golf Course is the Past President; Michael W.Stachowicz of Dedham Country & Polo Club as Treasurer; Michael Luccini,CGCS of Franklin Country Club as Finance Chairman;Mark Gagne ofWalpoleCountry Club as Secretary; Richard T. Gagnon of Segregansett Country Clubas Newsletter Chairman; David Stowe, CGCS of Newton Commonwealth GolfCourse as Golf Chairman: David Johnson as Education Chairman.Three other individuals were elected as Trustees. The Trustees include Scott

Lagana, CGCS of Oak Hill Country Club, Peter Hasek of Tedesco CountryClub and Carl Miner of Presidents Golf Course.

NEGCOA elects newboard members

At the recent New England Golf Course Owners Associationmembership meeting at Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, the NEGCOAelected new officers and board members. Kevin Osgood, SterlingGolf Management, was elected president of the organization. Osgoodhas served as a member of the board of directors and most recentlyas NEGCOA vice president. David Frem, Cyprian Keyes Golf Club,was elected vice president. Frem has been engaged with the organi-zation for many years and most recently served as treasurer. SteveBoutet, Dunegrass Golf Club, continues as NEGCOA secretary. RonLavoie, 1921 Golf/The Wellesley Companies, is the new NEGCOAtreasurer.Incoming board members are Peter Clark, The Ranch Golf Club,

Mark Lombardi, Easton Country Club, and Ann MacDonald,Brookmeadow Country Club.Continuting on the NEGCOA Board are Dudley Darling, Juniper

Hill Golf Course, Walt Lankau, StowAcres Country Club, and LeighBader, Pine Oaks Country Club.

Harris Golf answers the call at anotherMaine club

U First, Financial GuidanceWithout the Risk

Our country clubs are being deeply compromised by our financialcrisis. What compels me to write this article is based on my personalexperience and success with a new financial product from a compa-ny called United First Financial.Last year I was introduced to an interactive software that can eval-

uate income, debt, and interest rates. A plan is created that is flexibleand utilizes current income to pay down any debt up to 70% fasterthan can be done on your own.The software cannot compromise you or your business because it

only reacts to your input. Every time you use it your future is reeval-uated. You do not have to make more money or change your dailylife. You will use your money the same way the bank uses it andappreciate more because math does not lie.It will appreciate every penny you give it access to. More impor-

tantly you can objectively appraise your financial situation as often asyou like forecasting your true cost numbers based on current interestrates.

Video has changed everything about golf and learning about theswing. UFF has changed everything you think you know about usingyour money. When your money is moved in specific amounts, in atimely way, for an alloted time, you will actually appreciate morethan you might think possible. It is very motivational, and inspira-tional to see debt diminish at a new pace. Timing is everything. Whowould have thought your money can be worth more than face value?Expose yourself to the newest technology in finance, United FirstFinancial software a GPS system for your finances. We live in aworld of opinions, egos, and historical perspectives. If we keep doingthe same thing over and over nothing changes but the pressure thatcomes from inefficient action. My family and I are saving over200,000 dollars by using this product and you can too. My name isKregg Moyer. I have been a PGA member for 20 years and an inde-pendent sales representative for 15 years. Compromising myself isout of the question.If you would like to know more:

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I have been playing golf for a long time and I wasnever a very good putter. I have spent many hours on theputting green trying to get better with limited success.One day I decided to tape my practice session. SomethingI noticed was that I spent very little time looking at thehole or target. In every sport when the ball or object is notmoving towards you, your eyes are focused on the targetnot the object (hockey-net) (baseball-glove) (football-

receiver) and in most cases it is about distance (basketball-hoop) (horse-shoes-pole). Your eyes need to train your brain on distance; thereforeyou need to spend as much time as possible looking at the hole not theball or putter. There are many strokes on the golf links because everyoneis searching for the major putter – “There is no such thing”. Tiger hashad the same putter for the last 8 years. When I hear the announcers onSunday, I always hear what great speed control the leader had.

I use a little simple drill with my students at Elite.Drill: Place 3 balls on the green and stroke them to different holes

while looking a the hole, not the ball. This will train your brain on theproper amount of force you need to make the ball travel to the acquireddistance. Try this drill for 10 to 15 minutes every time you are at the golfcourse and your putting will improve dramatically.


Equipment ReviewsSpend Your Dollars WiselyFrom my experience as a teacher, I’ve learned many players

have made decisions to buy equipment that hasn’t helped theirgame and sometimes has even hurt it. Ask yourself the question“Has the last set of irons, woods, wedges or putter I bought actu-ally lowered my score?”The answer is plain and simple: buy your equipment from a

qualified golf professional who understands your game. If youdon’t have an instructor you trust, find one. New England is

loaded with quality golf professionals who can help you make WISE equipmentdecisions.While your driver, fairway woods, irons and wedges combined make up 60%

of your score, your putter makes up 40% of your score. One club in your bagmakes up nearly half your score! The smartest thing any golfer can do is makesure their putter is right. The two most important specifications to a putter arelength and swingweight.The length of the putter influences a player’s posture at address, as well as how

far they stand from the ball. A putter that is too long causes a player to stand tootall where their arms don’t have the freedom to move under their body. The effectis usually a wristy or excessive body motion during the stroke.Aputter that is tooshort typically causes the player to bend over too far. In effect, this positionmovestheir eyes past the golf ball and disconnects their arms. The correct length putterallows the player to set-up in the proper posture with their eyes over or just insideof the golf ball and their elbows connected to their sides. From there, a player canlearn to make a stable consistent putting stroke where the body and wrists staypassive resulting in solid and consistent contact. The swingweight of the putter isthe feel of the putter head as it travels back and forth during the stroke. It relatesto the tempo and the rate of acceleration. Great putters have a consistent tempoand a constant or smooth rate of acceleration. When a player grips down or hastheir putter cut down, they lose swingweight and in effect lose feel of the putter-head during the putting motion. If a putter is too heavy, it can create too muchforce during the stroke encouraging the player to quit on their putts.With our current economy, it is now more important than ever to spend your

dollars wisely. Before you go out and buy the “latest and greatest,” consult a golfprofessional who is a skilled teacher and knowledgeable fitter. You will get thebest advice in matching up the proper technique with the correct equipment spec-ifications so that you get real results from the dollars you spend.Todd began his golf career in 1981. After working as a club professional for

15 years, he decided to completely turn his attention to teaching golf, openingImpact Golf in 1998. Scott McCarron, Robert Gamez, Shaun Micheel, JayWilliamson, Steve Jones, Paul Goydos, Stephanie Louden, and Hillary Lunkeare among the PGA/LPGA professionals who have worked with Todd. Toddhas been voted one of the Top 100 Golf Instructors in America by GolfMagazine since 1995, as well as one of the 50 Greatest Teachers in America byGolf Digest. He has twice been named Teacher of the Year in the Illinois PGA.Todd has published over 70 articles in major publications, such as Golf DigestandGolfMagazine. Todd has also published two successful books; “Lights OutPutting” and “Saving Par”.

Instruction

ByTodd Sones,PGA

Professional

Distance Control is King

By Jeff DantasDirector ofInstruction

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SeeMore, FGP Bronze – Hide the Red Dot & Putt Like a MajorChampion – www.seemore.com• Patented Riflescope Technology alignment system(RST), allows a golfer to set up perfectly square to theintended putt line every time

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Exclusive Links Passports 800.639.1941 www.linkspassport.comHow Great Golfers Think 877.748.1135 www.howgreatgolfersthink.comNew England Custom Putting Greens 800.618.9670 www.newenglandsyntheticturf.comOrange Whip 877.505.9447 www.orangewhiptrainer.comPerfect Release 800.860.0923 www.perfectrelease.comSonocaddie 800.336.6264 www.sonocaddie.comSwingroove 800.796.4416 www.swingroove.comSwing Rite 866.660.7387 www.swingrite.comWedgewood 888.833.7371 www.wedgewoodgolf.com

GOLF SERVICESGOLF SERVICES

Gina Cigar www.ginacigar.comGolf and Gamble 508.970.0066 www.golf-n-gamble.comJet Blue Challenge 516.680.5986 www.jetbluechallenge.comL.T.S. Leader Boards of New England 781.784.6508 www.ltsleaderboard.comTournament Headquarters 508.734.2186 www.tournamentheadquarters.comWorldwide Golf Vacations 800.946.5318 www.worldwidegolfvacations.comU First 914.277.1822 [email protected]

GOLF SGOLF SHOWSHOWS

National Golf Expo Boston, MA March 6-8 www.paragonexpo.com

GOLF TOURNAMENTSGOLF TOURNAMENTS

BJ Charity Classic Quincy, MA September 9, 2009 www.theledgendstour.comCelebrity Pro Veteran Invitational Boston, MA June 29, 2009 www.celebrityproveteran.comCVS Charity Classic Barrington, RI June 21-23, 2009 www.cvscharityclassic.comDeutsche Bank Championship Norton, MA September 1-7, 2009 www.deutschebankchampionship.comMembers Cup September 2009 www.memberscup.comTravelers Championship Cromwell, CT June 22-28, 2008 www.travelerschampionship.comTurning Stone Resort Champion. Verona, NY October 1-3, 2009 www.turningstoneresortchampionship.com

New England Golf Monthly Directory



GOLF INSTRUCTORSGOLF INSTRUCTORSAnthony DeQuattro Swansea, MA 508.675.8767 www.colesrivergolf.comBill Kay Swansea, MA 508.675.8767 www.colesrivergolf.comChris Costa Middleton, MA 978.774.4075 www.middletongolf.comDeLayne Pascal Sandwich, MA 508.428.5577 www.hollyridgegolf.comDennis Sales Cumberland, RI 401.787.7040 www.DennisSalesGolf.comEd Hanley Cranston, RI 401.826.1683 www.cranstoncc.comJeff Dantas Seekonk, MA 508.336.EPRO www.elitegolfcenter.comKeith Allcock Seekonk, MA 508.336.6622 www.FireFlyGolfCourse.comRick Holcomb Seekonk, MA 401.862.4119 Seekonk Driving RangeTom Wecal Smithfield, RI 401.766.1151 www.iwgolf.comTony Lauro Warwick, RI 401.821.1115 www.valleycountryclub.net

GOLF PRACTICE FACILITIESGOLF PRACTICE FACILITIESAtlantic Golf Center South Attleboro, MA 508.761.5484 www.atlanticgolfcenter.comColes River Driving Range Swansea, MA 508.675.8767Elite Golf Center Seekonk, MA 508.336.EPRO www.elitegolfcenter.comGolf Shots Wareham, MA 508.295.8773Mulligans Island Cranston, RI 401.454.8855 www.mulligansisland.comSeekonk Driving Range Seekonk, MA 508.336.8047The Harmon Club Rockland, MA 866.942.7666 www.harmongolf.com

MASSACHUSETTS GOLF COURSESMASSACHUSETTS GOLF COURSESSouth ShoreSouth Shore

Acushnet River Valley Acushnet 508-998-7777 www.golfacushnet.comAllendale Country Club No. Dartmouth 508-992-8682 www.allendale Countryclub.comChemawa Golf Course No. Attleboro 508.399.7330 www.chemawagolf.comCrestwood Country Club Rehoboth 508.336.8582 www.crestwoodcc.comFall River Country Club Fall River 508.672.0280 www.fallrivercc.comLakeville Country Club Lakeville 508-947-6630 www.lakevillecountryclub.comLedgemont Country Club Seekonk 508.761.6600 www.ledgemontcc.comMaplegate Country Club Bellingham 508.996.4040 www.maplegate.comNew England Country Club Bellingham 508-883-2300 www.newenglandcountryclub.comOlde Scotland Links Bridgewater 508-279-3344 www.oldescotlandlinks.comPine Oaks Golf Club South Easton 508-238-2320 www.pineoaks.comPine Valley Golf Course Rehoboth 508.336.5064Poquoy Brook Golf Course Lakeville 508-947-5261 www.Poquoybrook.comRehoboth Country Club Rehoboth 508-252-6259 www.rehobothcc.comRiver Bend Country Club W. Bridgewater 508.580.3673 www.riverbendcc.comScituate Country Club Scituate 781.545.7666 www.scituatecc.comShadow Brook Golf Course South Attleboro 508.761.5484Southers Marsh Golf Club Plymouth 508.830.3535 www.southersmarsh.comThe Back Nine Club Lakeville 508.947.9991 www.thebacknineclub.comTouisset Country Club Swansea 508.679.9577 www.touissetcc.comWampanoag Golf Club N. Swansea 508-379-9832Waverly Oaks Country Club Plymouth 508-224-6016 www.waverlyoaksgolfclub.com

Boston AreaBoston AreaBrookmeadow Golf Course Canton 781.828.4444 www.brookmeadowgolf.comGranite Links Golf Club Quincy 617.689-1900 www.granitelinksgolfclub.com

Cape CodCape CodSouth Yarmouth 508.398.9079 www.golfyarmouthcapecod.comBay Pointe Country Club Onset Beach 508-759-8802 www.BayPointeCC.netBayberry Hills Golf Course West Yarmouth 508.394.5597 www.golfyarmouthcapecod.comCranberry Village Golf Club Harwich 508.430.7560 www.cranberrygolfcourse.comFarm Neck Golf Course Oak Bluffs 508.693.3057Holly Ridge Golf Course Sandwich 508.428.5577 www.hollyridgegolf.comHyannis Country Club Hyannis 508.362.6936Little Harbor Country Club Wareham 508.295.2617 www.littleharborcc.comOld Barnstable Country Club Marshen Mills 508.420.1141 www.obfgolf.comPaul Harney Golf club East Falmouth 508.563.3454 www.paulharneygolfcourse.homstead.comThe Captains Course Brewster 877.843.9081 www.captainsgolfcourse.com


MASSACHUSETTS GOLF COURSESMASSACHUSETTS GOLF COURSES

North ShoreNorth ShoreAndover 978-475-9484 www.indianridgecountryclub.usMeadow Golf Course Peabody 978.532.9390 www.peabodymeadowgolf.comMiddleton Golf Course Middleton 978.774.4075 www.middletongolf.comMyopia Hunt Club S. Hamilton 978-468-4433 www.myopiahuntclub.orgSterling Country Club Sterling 978-422-0275 www.sterlingcc.comWinchester Country Club Winchester 781.729.4085 www.winchestercc.org

Worcester-Springfield-BerkshiresWorcester-Springfield-BerkshiresPittsfield 413-447-9429 www.berkshirehillscc.comBlackstone National Golf Club Sutton 508.865.2111 www.bngc.netBlissful Meadows Golf Course Uxbridge 508.278.6110 www.blissfulmeadows.com Crumpin-Fox Club Bernardston 800.943.1901 www.golfthefox.comCyprian Keyes Golf Club Boylston 508-869-9900 www.cypriankeyes.comPetersham Country Club Petersham 978.724.3388 www.petershamcc.comQuail Hollow Golf & Country Club Oakham 508.882.5516 www.quailhollowgolf.netRed Tail Golf Club Ayer 978.772.3273 www.redtailgolf.netShaker Hills Golf Course Harvard 978-772-3273 www.shakerhills.comStow Acres Country Club Stow 978.568.1100 www.stowacres.comThe Ledges Golf Club S. Hadley 413.532.2307 www.ledgegc.comThe Ranch Golf club Southwick 413.569.9333 www.theranchgolfclub.comWachusett Country Club West Boylston 508.835.4484 www.wachusettcc.com

Rhode Island Golf CoursesRhode Island Golf Courses

Beaver River Richmond 401-539-2100 www.beaverrivergolf.comBristol Golf Club Bristol 401.253.9844Crystal Lake Golf Club Harrisville 401-567-4500 www.crystallakegolfclub.com Green Valley Country Club Portsmouth 401-847-9543 www.greenvalleyccofri.comMontaup Country Club Portsmouth 401-683-0955 www.montaupcc.comNewport National Golf Club Middletown 401-846-1489 www.newportnational.comTriggs Memorial Golf Club Providence 401-521-8460 www.triggs.usValley Country Club Warwick 401.821.1115 www.valleycountryclub.netWest Warwick Country Club West Warwick 401.821.9789 www.westwarwickcc.comWoodland Greens Golf Club N. Kingstown 401-294-2872 www.woodlandgc.com

Golf ResortsGolf Resorts

Camelback Inn & JWM Resort Scottsdale, AZ 800.242.2635 www.camelbackinn.comResorts Suites of Scottsdale Scottsdale, AZ 888.222.1059 www.resortsuites.comFoxwoods Resort & Casino Mashantucket, CT 888.475.3746 www.foxwoods.comDoral Golf Resort & Spa Miami, FL 800.713.6725 www.doralresort.comGinn Reunion Resort Orlando, FL 888.418.9611 www.reunionresort.comGreater Atlantic City Golf Assoc. Atlantic City, NJ 609.449.7133 www.acgolfvacations.comInnisbrook Resort & Golf Club Palm Harbor, FL 727.942.2000 www.innisbrookgolfresort.comJW Marriott Grande Lakes Orlando, FL 407.206.2300 www.grandlakes.comMarriott’s Marco Island Resort Marco Island, FL 239.394.2511 www.marcoislandmarriott.comPGA National Resort Palm Beach Grdn, FL 561.627.2000 www.pgaresort.comPGA Village-Perfect Drive Golf Villas Port St. Lucie, FL 772.873.0515 www.PerfectDriveatPGAVillage.comSawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 800.228.9290 www.sawgrassmarriott.com Ocean Edge Resort and Club Brewster, MA 800.343.0674 www.oceanedge.comPinehurst Resort Village Pinehurst, NC 800.487.4653 www.pinehurst.comThe Mount Washington Resort Bretton Woods, NH 800.314.1752 www.mtwashington.comPeek’n Peak Resort & Spa Findley Lake, NY 888.475.8502 www.pknpk.com The Sagamore Bolton Landing, NY 800.358.3585 www.thesagamore.com Turning Stone Resort & Casino Verona, NY 800.771.7711 www.turning-stone.com Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa Hilton Head Island, SC 843.686.8400 www.hiltonheadmarriott.comKiawah Island Golf Resort Kiawah Island, SC 843.768.2121 www.kiawahresort.comLitchfield Beach & Golf Resort Litchfield Beach, SC 888.766.4633 www.litchfieldbeach.comPawley’s Plantation Pawley’s Island, SC 800.367.9959 www.pawleysplantation.comMt. Snow Golf Club & Resort West Dover, VT 800.451.4211 www.mountsnow.com



GOLF TRAVEL


Bobby D's Insider Guide To A Spring Golf Trip In Scottsdale

By Bob DiCesareIt's no secret that Scottsdale, Arizona is one of the world's finest golf destinations. And the early spring months of

March and April are still a great time to experience this wonderful vacation spot and enjoy its warmth and beauty beforethe sizzling heat settles in. If you're planning an upcoming trip to the greater Phoenix area, here's a personalized Top10 list of things to consider – David Letterman style.10. Get A Good Deal On A Set Of Wheels.Before you even land at user-friendly Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, you need to be savvy when reserv-ing a rental car. Phoenix is harsh when it comes to airport rental taxes and fees compared to other large metropolitanareas because you're helping to fund its new sports stadiums. 9. The Wonder of SedonaIf you are planning a 5-to-7 day visit, take some time off from the golf course and travel north on I-17 to experiencethe enchantment of Sedona. The red rock monoliths are natural wonders and there are also some great trails to hike and

Hummer tours through the surrounding desert. It is an especially awe-inspiring experience for first-time visitors from the East Coast.8. But It's a Dry Heat . . .OK, 90-to-100 degree temperatures from May through September is HOT, regardless of whether it's dry or humid conditions. However, blue skyand pleasant warmth can be expected for most of the rest of the calendar year. The latest figures show that there are329 days in a year with at least some sunshine. They don't call it the Valley of the Sun for nothing. 7. March Also Means America's PastimeThis is a great time and place to catch Major League Baseball spring training games. 2009 also happens to be one ofthe longest spring training periods in recent years (until April 4). Ticket sales are a little slower because of the econ-omy, but prices are also more reasonable.There are 14 MLB teams which call the greater Phoenix area their springtraining home. 6. Eat, Drink, And Be MerryGolfers who also happen to be "foodies" will be delighted with southwestern cuisine, along with numerous other din-ing options. I'm going to recommend a few places that are in the "can't miss" category. The Rusty Spur Saloon on E. Main Street in the Old Townsection of Scottsdale bills itself as the area's last real cowboy saloon. Just a couple of blocks away on E. Main Street is the Old Town Tortilla Factory,featuring a firewater patio and a tequila bar that offers 80 premium tequilas. A great place to unwind and enjoy a few drinks after a round of golf isO'Donoghue's Irish Pub on N. Hayden Road in North Scottsdale, which is located within minutes of several of the most popular golf courses in thearea.5. At Your Service

The people of Scottsdale know a good thing when they see it and embrace their visitors. I can't say enough aboutmy experience at the Xona Resort Suites. Every member of the staff made eye contact and offered a pleasant greet-ing. If you had your hands full, they would stop what they were doing and assist you to either your car or room.Golfcourse attendants are meticulous in whisking away your golf clubs when you arrive and setting you up on a cart,and likewise cleaning your clubs upon return and moving them to the bag drop for your convenience.Sometimesit's the little things that go a long way in helping to remember the good times away from home.4. Go Ahead, Pamper YourselfSome of us are not as young as we used to be. If you're planning to play three-or-four consecutive days of golf,there's a good chance that you'll feel a few aches and pains. My boss and I like a good deal, therefore we're partialto the Hand and Stone Massage Spa of Scottsdale. Ask for the $39.95 introductory special, in which they'll amaz-ingly twist and turn your body like a pretzel – and you'll love it !!! Or, opt for the more luxurious hot stone mas-

sage for $59.95, which is really worth double that price. Either way, your body will love you later when you're ready to crank it up again on the golfcourse.3. Oh Yeah, Let's Not Forget The Golf . . .Golf, golf, and more golf than you have the time or days for. Imagine over 200 courses in the Scottsdale area alone, plusmore in other neighboring towns. Xona Resort Suites specializes in golf vacations with a Golf Bank program that partnerswith 27 golf courses at 18 properties, some of them the finest in the world. The Golf Bank allows guests to "custom fit" theirScottsdale golf experience with preferred tee times, reduced rates, complementary breakfast buffet, dinner reservations, andleisure activities. 2. Decisions, Decisions, Decisions . . .Our itinerary included Legend Trail, We-Ko-Pa (Saguaro Course), The Boulders (South Course), and Papago Municipal,with a little side trip to Troon North (Monument Course). What we got in return was a wide variety of layouts ranging fromchallenging, target-style desert designs to a solid mix of traditional, tree-lined courses, and all come with scenic mountainviews.Just like the restaurant scene, there will be people who'll say that Camelback, Desert Canyon, The Golf Club at EagleMountain, Grayhawk, The Phoenician, Sanctuary, TPC Scottsdale, and Trilogy are a must.Do some homework and cater your golf course selections to your playing ability in order to get the most enjoyment. Also,keep in mind that The Boulders South Course is consistently rated among the top three courses in the country for women based on user-friendlycourse design and beauty.1. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is the Favorite PickLocated on land owned by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, the Saguaro Course at We-Ko-Pa was designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw,who integrated design elements not commonly seen on most courses in the area.The emphasis here is on serenity since there are no homes, roads, or commercial development on the property. The Saguaro course is much like theolder, traditional courses, where the layout follows the natural movement of the land, making it very walking friendly. A complete repertoire of shot-making skills is needed to find solutions to its challenges. Nowhere is that more evident than the par-5, 513-yard, 14th hole, which features a dou-ble fairway. Pick your poison.The combination of cacti, thorny underbrush, and desert flora line both sides of nearly every fairway, giving the course a pleasant feeling of isola-tion. There's also the commanding views of Four Peaks Wilderness Area in the background that'll keep your camera constantly within reach.There's something about this place that oozes charm and personality everywhere you look, and a golf course that you'd love to play again - eventhough there's dozens of other courses in the area that you want to, but haven't, played yet.Then again, there's always next year . . .(Bob DiCesare is the golf writer for The Enterprise in Brockton, MA, and is a member of the International Network of Golf)


GORMAN VS. GEARY

GORMAN VS. GEARYShould English be required language for the LPGA’s young & the restless?

LPGA Ladies Should LearnEnglish or Be Gone!

One thing the sports world needs more of is women likeCarolyn Bivens. She brings to the 19th hole the kind of hard-charging, take no prisoners, winner-take-all businessapproach that deserves applause.

Carolyn Bivens oversees the longest-running women’ssports organization in the world – the Ladies Professional Golf Association– and last August she made a decision that I support 110%. She wants to sus-pend LPGA Tour players who cannot speak English well enough to beunderstood at pro-ams, in interviews or in making acceptance speeches attournaments in the United States. Unfortunately, she softened her position after three weeks due to the factthat the politically-correct crowd, as well as whining, angry foreigners lam-basted her decision and threatened legal problems and a slew of negativepublicity that would have ultimately hurt the Tour. Biven’s reign, so far, has been successful, but it has also been filled with

controversy, bloopers, bleepers and surprises. Let’s start with her bold announcement, shortly after taking control in

2005, that the LPGA will institute a drug-testing policy for participants inLPGA Tour events beginning with the 2008 season. With that announce-ment, the LPGA became the first tour in professional golf to develop a pro-tocol and to design a plan to administer a drug-testing program.Those who follow women’s professional golf know that over the past few

years, the LPGA has developed a perpetual problem with teenagers trying toplay golf better than adults. Every time we look there is another teeny-bop-per (usually foreign and non-English speaking) trying to play golf betterthan an accomplished woman pro. And adults don’t like it when they arebeaten by kids in a game of high stakes, prestige and money.So in her first year on the job, Bivens, a/k/a the “queen of mean” rejectedrequests from three budding superstars to join the LPGA Tour before reach-ing the mandatory age of 18. Teenage phenoms Michelle Wie, PaulaCreamer and Morgan Pressel all made inquiries or sought exemptions to becard-carrying members of the LPGA Tour before age 18 and all three wereissued the same response: No! No! and No!The LPGA is an organization made up of 500 women, so there’s going to

be some serious screaming, bitching, backstabbing and nagging going on!Despite Annika Sorenstam’s class act for the past dozen years, some femalelegends don’t appreciate where the Tour is headed and have not hesitated tospeak out.The 2009 LPGA Tour currently has 45 players from South Korea and 121

players from 26 different countries. Nearly half of the top-25 players areAsian, including nine Koreans. Five are American, five from Europe and oneeach from Mexico (Lorena Ochoa), Brazil and Australia. Of the 21 rookiesqualifying for Tour spots for 2009, in a class that includes Michelle Wie, 13are Asian. And all four LPGA major championships were won by non-Americans this past year. Ms Bivens made the right decision by adopting a policy that will require

its member golfers to speak English or face suspension. All players whohave been on the Tour for two years could be suspended if they fail to passan oral evaluation of their English proficiency starting at the end of the 2009season. The Tour announced the policy to its South Korean membership onAugust 20, 2008.The LPGA’s policy did not need much translation after the announcementsince the Asian American community went berserk, into back flips andcrazed chaos, condemning the possible suspension-penalty policy, whichwould affect many of its top players. “The LPGA has received valuable feedback from a variety of constituentsregarding the recently announced penalties attached to our effective com-munications policy. We have decided to rescind those penalty provisions,”wrote Carolyn Bivens, in a statement available on the LPGA website. “Afterhearing the concerns, we believe there are other ways to achieve our sharedobjective of supporting and enhancing the business opportunities for everyTour player. We will continue communicating with our diverse Tour playersto develop a better alternative. The LPGA will announce a revised approach,absent playing penalties, by the end of 2008.”This issue is pure dynamite and I hope Carolyn Bivens prevails. However,

it also makes me wonder if a video will be out soon titled: “Girls Gone Wild– Golf Edition.”Tom Gorman, a member of the Golf Writers Association of America,International Network of Golf and Golf Travel Writers of America, is aBoston-based freelance golf writer.

The LPGA Is Global

It would be inappropriate (not to mention libelous) tosay that LPGA Commissioner Carolyn Bivens was stupid forfirst announcing that members of her tour would be suspend-ed if they could not speak the English language with enoughfluency as to please the media, potential rich-cat pro-ampartners and tournament sponsors. Inappropriate but hardlywithout merit.To her credit Bivens backtracked from that stance quicker than a mouseconfronting a hungry alley cat when legislators and other right-mindedpeople began pointing out that a language requirement flew in the veryface of what America stands for (ever hear of the first amendment?).At first blush it would seem prudent for the financial well-being of theLPGA that its members be able to communicate smoothly with the vastmajority of those from whom they derive their income.Upon deeper review it’s extremely arrogant for any organization to

infringe upon an individual’s right of free expression (or in this case lan-guage) just because it might cost a few $$$$.The LPGA’s biggest problems are that its best players are largely Koreanand the vast majority of tournaments are primarily held in the UnitedStates, one of the few developed nations that does not teach its students to(actually) learn another language (hell, we barely teach our kids to speakEnglish).That would be fine if the majority of the better players were American (orat least spoke fluent English), but over the past 10 to 15 years the LPGATour has become dominated by foreign players, particularly those fromSouth Korea.Statistically there were 121 international players from 26 countries,including 45 from Korea participating on the LPGA Tour in 2008 andAsians won three of the four majors.They play well but do not speak English well enough to make sponsorshappy.Sponsors like to feature major championship winners in ads and other

promotions and it helps if they can appear in the advertisement and saysomething witty like, “I thought my best drive of the year came on the finalhole of the U.S. Open but that was before I got behind the wheel of a 2009Buick.”The scary part of this whole myopic philosophy is that it could be onlythe first step. What’s next? If the Korean ladies continue to dominate playare we going to do what Little League Baseball tried back in the 1980swhen the Taiwan teams were winning all of those world titles inWilliamsport, namely ban them from participating because they’re toogood?The Little League ban only lasted a year or two, but it gave the world avery keen insight into our national insecurity, which seems to be, “If youcan’t beat ‘em, ban ‘em”.From a personal point of view I get very frustrated when I pick up thephone and try and get some information on a product or service only to begreeted on the other end of the line by somebody who speaks brokenEnglish.But their English is certainly far superior to my Spanish, French, Germanor anything else. After four years of studying French (including a year incollege) my mastery of the language only allows me to order French fries,say yes and utter a few phrases to women that are guaranteed to get myface slapped.Imagine being a 19-year old girl from Korea, who begins hitting golf ballsat age six, works extremely hard, becomes proficient enough to turn pro,has to leave her family and culture and travel to a very, very foreign landto try and earn a living. She does very well and then has to deal with somemoron who dictates that her play alone isn’t good enough. Now she has tolearn to speak one of the most difficult languages on the planet just so shecan crack a few jokes while playing with some bank executives fromDesmoines during a pro-am.The sad thing is that most of these young ladies work very diligently attrying to learn enough English to get by whereas American players whocompete abroad expect everyone in the woarld to speak our language andtherefore never make an attempt to learn a new language.Tim Geary is a freelance writer with over 33 years of experience, thelast 24 of which he served as a sports writer for the Fall River HeraldNews, before retiring last October. He contributes to several golf maga-zines on a regular basis.

By Tom Gorman By Tim Geary

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