Golf Vacations Magazine December 2014

www.golfvacationsmag.com Golf Vacations • December 2014 1

OUR 12th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: M y T u r n • S w e e t S t u f f • C h i p S h o t s

GOLF VACATIONSGOLF VACATIONSDECEMBER 2014

BOOT RANCH LUXURIOUS PRIVATE GOLFBOOT RANCH LUXURIOUS PRIVATE GOLF

QUIVIRA GOLF CLUB LOS CABOSQUIVIRA GOLF CLUB LOS CABOS

Plus: CHARLESTON: ULTIMATE THREE-DAY GETAWAYPlus: CHARLESTON: ULTIMATE THREE-DAY GETAWAY

2 Golf Vacations • December 2014 www.golfvacationsmag.com


8 Chip Shots

12 Texas Hill Country’s Boot Ranch by David R. HollandFredericksburg, Texas – Boot Ranch, the Texas Hill Country’s emblem of luxurious private golf course communities, breaks a formula many Texans have followed since tourism became popular. The development, a dream of PGA Tour player Hal Sutton, says you don’t have to go to Colorado to cool off in summer and have a beautiful getaway.

14 Quivira Golf Club: Los Cabos by David R. HollandLOS CABOS, MEXICO – Jack Nicklaus was back on the spectacular Baja California peninsula again in December to christen his sixth golf course here and celebrate an area that is a deep-sea fisherman’s paradise, a whale watcher’s haven and a destination golf resort mecca.

18 Charleston: Ultimate Three Day Getaway by JD LatorreCHARLESTON, SC. – Home to 19 championship golf courses, miles of pristine beaches, a buzz-worthy restaurant scene and a bounty of historic tours and attractions for all ages, the Charleston area is the premier destination for an unbeatable golf vacation. Below is the ultimate itinerary for 72 hours and 72 holes in the Holy City by the Sea and Tee:

20 Sweet Stuff by Terry Ross

GOLF VACATIONSGOLF VACATIONSDECEMBER 2014

Quivira Golf Club - Los Cabos, Mexico


Terry Ross has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities. He has been a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal and is based in Orange County, California.

JD Latorre is a freelance travel writer currently calling South Florida his home base. He has a knack for finding himself in some of the world’s most exotic locations, including Bangkok, Montego Bay, Bogata, Havana, Cabo San Lucas, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.

David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Holland, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine, and Fairway to Green (UK). He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, United Press International and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Executive EditorJeffrey Diaz

Associate EditorTerry Ross

Features EditorLarry Feldman

Senior WritersJD Latorre

Andy ReistetterFred Robledo

For Editorial:call (760) 774-2655

e-mail: [email protected]

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Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801

[email protected]

Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500

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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS

Chuck Miller (The Traveling Guy) is a resident of the golfing community of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. For the past 20 years he has traveled extensively throughout the US and around the world writing about “Places to Play and Places to Stay”. In 2012 he played golf in every state during a 50-week, 50-state driving tour of the US.


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSSt. Kitts Named in Top 25 Islands for Golf Globally

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – As published in the Fall 2014 issue of LINKS Magazine, St. Kitts & Nevis is ranked among the Top 25 Islands in the world purely on the strength of its golf.

“As a golfer myself, who has played on a number of courses in the Caribbean and around the globe, I’m extremely pleased to see the high quality of our own golf offerings recognized,” said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism & International Transport. “This is really good news for our decision to develop our destination with golf as one of our niche target markets, and with our third world-class course scheduled to open this winter. Our golfing visitors typically have a higher than normal per-person-per-day spend, which fits nicely into our strategic shift toward a more upscale tourism product.”

St. Kitts & Nevis is one of just seven Caribbean islands to rate among the LINKS Magazine Top 25. Listed at #25, the “lucky 7” destination is listed with just six other Caribbean islands that are well-known and established golf destinations – Hispaniola, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Bahamas and Barbados (in that order). St. Kitts & Nevis is ranked together as one island, with the Royal St. Kitts noted as the Best Course for play.

The Royal St. Kitts Golf Club was also recently recognized as one of eleven Fantastic Father’s Day Gifts in the Caribbean in an article appearing on May 31, 2014 in USA Today. In addition, it was the first Caribbean golf course to earn Audubon Certification for its environmental practices and is a natural haven for both native and migratory birds. Further to the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club and, on Nevis, the Robert Trent Jones II course at Four Seasons Resort Nevis Golf Club, the twin-island federation will soon be home to the hillside Irie Fields championship course designed by Ian Woosnam at Kittitian Hill debuting in Winter 2014/Spring 2015 and a Tom Fazio championship course at Christophe Harbour on St. Kitts’ southeast peninsula scheduled to open in Winter 2016/Spring 2017, which together create a collection of championship courses unmatched in a destination of St. Kitts and Nevis’ size.

In recent years, St. Kitts has been making a concerted drive into the lucrative golf tourism market. A premier event showcasing the destination’s golf product is the St. Kitts and Nevis Admiral’s Cup Pro-Am, a five-day team tournament for professionals and amateurs from golf clubs across the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. The 5th annual tournament will be played February 17-21, 2015. The St. Kitts-Nevis Admiral’s Cup

Pro-Am is the only golf event of its kind that is hosted simultaneously by two Caribbean islands featuring play on two world-class golf courses. For more details or to enter online, visit www.stkittsproam.com.

Hilton Head Golf Island Announces Warm Weather Winter Escape Stay-and-Play Packages

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. – Hilton Head Golf Island – a collection of 31 of the Lowcountry’s premier golf courses – announces an assortment of warm weather winter escape stay-and-play packages at the area’s marquee resort and golf destinations.

With average temperatures in the 60s and 70s during its coldest months, Hilton Head offers a welcome respite from the freezing weather found in most of the country. The perfect destination for golf enthusiasts seeking year-round play, the winter months welcome incredible value and plentiful tee times.

Ranked top 10 in seven categories by Golf Digest including ““Best Courses” and “Best Weather,” Hilton Head Golf Island has a variety of seasonal vacation packages available:

The Heritage Golf Collection – “Couples Winter Golf Escape:” Enjoy five

The Royal St. Kitts Golf Club.


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSnights in an ocean-view room at the newly-renovated Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and five rounds of golf at any of seven Heritage Collection courses including Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club, Shipyard Golf Club, Palmetto Hall Plantation Club and Oyster Reef Golf Club. Package also includes daily breakfast at The Westin, 10 percent off spa services at The Heavenly Spa by The Westin, complimentary range balls and a $100 card for use at the golf shop and clubhouses. Based on double occupancy, packages start at $155 per person, per night. Valid through February 2015. For package and reservation information: 843.681.1706, [email protected].

Palmetto Dunes – “Unlimited Golf Vacation Package:” Stay four days and three nights in a resort view villa and play two days of unlimited golf at each of the resort’s championship courses, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills and George Fazio. Guests also enjoy two hours of complimentary tennis court time (daily), preferred rates on all other resort activities as well as dining and merchandise discounts. Rates start at $140 per golfer, per night and include all taxes and resort fees. Valid through Feb. 28, 2015. For package and reservation information: 877.567.6512, www.PalmettoDunes.com.

Old South Golf Links – “Par 5 Package:” Just over the bridge in the charming mainland town of Bluffton is the acclaimed Old South Golf Links. Package includes four nights at the Hilton Garden Inn with complimentary breakfast, and five rounds per person including one round each at Old South Golf Links; Hampton Hall Golf Club, The Country Club of Hilton Head or Bear Creek Golf Club (choice of two); Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills or George Fazio (choice of one); and Sea Pines Resort Heron Point or Ocean Course (choice of one). Starting at $675 per person in a double occupancy standard room, price includes sales and accommodations tax. Valid through Feb. 2015. For package and reservation information: 843.837.2610, www.OldSouthGolf.com.

The Sea Pines Resort – “Stay-and-Play Villa Golf Package:” Experience three nights in private villa accommodations and one round each at Harbour Town Golf Links, Ocean Course and Heron Point by Pete Dye. Offer is full of extras including complimentary green fees on afternoon replays on the Ocean Course and Heron Point (cart fee not included), range balls and 10 percent discount on retail merchandise and food and beverage at the resort’s pro shops and restaurants. Packages start at $177 per golfer, per night,

inclusive of all taxes and fees, based on quad-occupancy. Rate valid through Feb. 28. 2015. For package and reservation information: 1.800.SEAPINES, www.SeaPinesGolf.com.

“The comfortable temperatures and lower humidity in the traditionally off-season months of December, January and February make the island a popular destination year-round,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association and Vice President of Sports and Operations at Sea Pines Resort. “These stay-and-play packages from the area’s finest resorts and courses are offered at an incredible value this time of year, and we encourage everyone to come enjoy the Lowcountry sunshine.”

As one of the nation’s foremost golf capitals, Hilton Head Island is the preferred vacation destination of golfers seeking a high-concentration of world-class quality courses, an unspoiled natural environment, beautiful resorts and inns, and old-fashioned Southern hospitality The legendary coastal Carolina destination has invested more than $200 million in upgrades in the past two years that are already finished, or under construction, transforming Hilton Head Island into the freshest resort town in America.

For additional information or to receive a quote: www.HiltonHeadGolfIsland.com, 800.523.3373.


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSWinter Golf Getaway Deals at Two of America’s Top Courses

PAWLEYS ISLAND, S.C. – Sick of the cold yet? Itching to get away? Longing for a game of golf with friends and family? On the Waccamaw Golf Trail just minutes south of Myrtle Beach S.C., golfers from around the world can get their game on at two of the 2014 top-ranked courses in America by Golf Magazine - True Blue Golf Club and Caledonia Golf and Fish Club.

Caledonia Golf Vacations is offering winter vacation getaway rates featuring incredible quality, variety and seasonal affordability.

“Winter Getaway” available from 12/1/14 through 1/31/15

• Stay at True Blue Resort in Pawleys Island and select an option below.

- 2 Nights, 3 Rounds at Caledonia and True Blue Golf Clubs (1 Round each, 3rd your choice) $249 per person*

- 3 Nights, 4 Rounds at Caledonia and True Blue Golf Clubs (1 Round each, 3rd, 4th your choice) $339 per person*

- 4 Nights, 5 Rounds at Caledonia and True Blue Golf Clubs (1 Round each 3rd, 4th and 5th your choice) $429 per person*

“Fore Star Golf Getaway” available from 2/1/15 through 2/15/15

- Play four rounds of golf at Caledonia and True Blue in a combination you like for $399 per person*. Getaway also includes three night accommodations at The True Blue Resort.

“March Mania” available from 3/2/14 through 3/15/15

• Play four rounds of golf at Caledonia and True Blue in a combination you like for $499 per person* Getaway also includes three nights accommodations at your golf group choose to play. Golf fees on all seasonal packages include cart, taxes, resort fees and range balls. *Fee is based on quad occupancy in a 2 bedroom, 2 bath golf villa at True Blue Resort.

True Blue and Caledonia Golf Clubs are land-adjacent courses designed by award-winning golf course architect, Mike Strantz. Both Caledonia and True Blue were developed to fully embrace the natural beauty of their Lowcountry surroundings and are carefully maintained to provide players with world-class golf experiences. Both courses are annually ranked in all major golf publications “Best of” and “Top 100” Lists.

For more information about Caledonia and True Blue, visit www.FishClub.com or call 1-888-483-6800

Billy Casper Golf’s ‘Women on Course’ Grows Participation by 400 Percent

VIENNA, VA – Women on Course (WOC) has grown participation by 400 percent in 12 months since the nation’s premier golf-lifestyle networking organization was acquired by Billy Casper Golf (BCG).

Adding more than 1,000 events, roughly 20,000 women enjoy golf, lunch, happy hour and wine-spa activities in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Hartford, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Washington, DC and other major markets. “Play Days,” “Signature” and “Destination” gatherings highlight the programming.

Corporate America is playing a large role in WOC expansion. Wells Fargo, Merrill Lynch, Golfsmith, Accenture and others are active nationally and in regions strategic to their businesses, leveraging WOC through corporate memberships, employee development programs and event sponsorships.

“Women on Course provides access for

Caledonia Golf and Fish Club


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSgolfers of all skill levels to connect in fun and unintimidating environments,” says Donna Hoffman, President of WOC which she founded in 2005. “Thousands of smiles and new faces reflect the surge in members.”

WOC annual membership has never been more affordable. In addition to event privileges, “Individual” members ($129) receive a pair of Nike Golf shoes or a $50 gift card for Sport Haley, GG Blue, LIJA or Just4Golf merchandise. “On Course” members receive Individual member benefits plus a set of Wilson clubs (Ultra model, $299; Profile model, $359) and golf bag for up to a $600 value.

Members enjoy free gifts; special access to private clubs; discounts on greens fees, apparel, equipment, wine and other products; golf and educational resources; contests; and forums. Fashion, fitness, travel and luxury components surrounding the world of golf are incorporated into the WOC experience.

“Billy Casper Golf is committed to growing female participation,” says Peter Hill, Chairman and CEO of BCG. “Women on Course has the perfect recipe to introduce the golf lifestyle and its many wellness and career benefits.”

With women comprising one-third (33.2%) of all new golfers, WOC attracts and retains

golfers by shifting focus away from score and competition. Members and guests are encouraged to learn and play golf at their own pace through:

• A “Play Your Own Way” choice allows beginners to add their own rules to relieve stress and keep up with more experienced golfers

• A “Score 5 to Survive” format – tee shot, fairway approach, chip, two putts – promotes using different clubs without slow play

More information: www.billycaspergolf.com, 703.761.1444.

Salish Cliffs GC in Golfweek’s 2015 ‘Best Resort Courses’

SHELTON, WA – Salish Cliffs Golf Club (www.salish-cliffs.com) – the award-winning amenity course at Little Creek Casino Resort – soared 12 spots in Golfweek’s “Best Resort Courses” rankings, rising to No. 43 on the annual top-100 list.

Located within an easy drive of Olympia and Seattle, Salish Cliffs is the lone Washington course on the 2015 list and one of only two Pacific Northwest resorts to be honored.

“This is a humbling honor and a credit to our staff, Little Creek Casino Resort and the unwavering support of our owners, the Squaxin

Island Tribe,” said Salish Cliffs Head Golf Professional David Kass, PGA. “Salish Cliffs is increasingly being recognized as a ‘must-play’ by discerning golfers and casino-resort aficionados.”

This is the latest of numerous national awards earned by Salish Cliffs since opening in 2011. The Gene Bates design was No. 4 on GOLF Magazine’s biennial “Best Courses Near You” state rankings earlier this year. The course, which is open year-round, also garnered top-10 distinction on Golfweek’s “Best Casino Courses in America” and “Best Courses by State”.

Adjacent to Salish Cliffs, Little Creek Casino Resort offers a poker room, Las Vegas-style gaming, and one of the state’s newest and largest non-smoking spaces. A variety of fine and casual dining options along with 190 immaculate guest rooms and suites complement the casino.

Popular amenities include the invigorating Seven Inlets Spa, Skookum Cigar & Wine Bar and state-of-the-art Skookum Creek Event Center, which regularly hosts big-name music acts and shows, including Little Creek Brawl VI, a Showtime Boxing event, on Dec. 20 and Jenny McCarthy’s Dirty, Sexy, Funny on Jan. 29.

For more information on the course, or to book a tee time or stay-and-play package, call 1.800.667.7711 or visit www.salish-cliffs.com.


Fredericksburg, Texas – Boot Ranch, the Texas Hill Country’s emblem of luxurious private golf course communities, breaks a formula many Texans have followed since tourism became popular.

The development, a dream of PGA Tour player Hal Sutton, says you don’t have to go to Colorado to cool off in summer and have a beautiful getaway.

Sutton, who hails from Louisiana, was in Fredericksburg one day with wife Ashley when a light bulb went off. He was thinking about the distinctive beauty of the Texas Hill Country and said, “This is your Aspen, Colorado right here in Texas.”

His golf course architecture experience includes the 27-hole Olde Oaks in Haughton, La., and a career-long vision of creating a golf course community started churning. But he wanted to do it differently. He’s been heard saying he developed Boot Ranch “bass-ackward”. That’s southern speak for backwards.

He built the golf course first – a beautiful rolling experience of 7,250 yards from the championship tees for a par of 71. Veteran golfers and novices find it a challenge with constant options and decisions to make each time one plays.

”I think a pivotal decision was made by Mr. Sutton to leave the hilltops (2,000 feet in elevation), for homes and views and build the golf course on the lower elevations,” said Sean Gioffre, Boot Ranch Director of Real Estate Sales and Marketing. “Also on a hilltop we built Clubhouse Village. It’s like an old European Village. It’s not just one building – there are six – including pro shop, locker rooms, ReStore Spa & Fitness, member guest rooms and restaurant with spectacular views.”

There is a 34-acre practice park, which includes a short game range and an executive Par-3 course. The Director of Golf is Emil Hale, a Texan, hand-picked by Sutton himself.

Sutton, who is no longer an owner, but still visits and owns property, hired a development dream team planned for 387 home sites of various sizes, shapes, and prices, all with a definite Texas Hill Country look and flavor. He chose a beautiful spread of 2,050 acres with the Palo Alto Creek winding through about five miles north of Fredericksburg, on the road to Llano and not far from Enchanted Rock.

The terrain is Texas rugged. Hills are covered with cedars and live oaks with countless curves of the land and the winding creek is used for traversing during your round.

There are twin 40-foot waterfalls in front of the 10th green, a spot used for the pivotal scene in the movie Seven Days in Utopia starring Robert Duval as a golf mentor and aspiring pro golfer Lucas Black.

Numerous PGA Tour pros visited Boot Ranch to participate in the filming of the movie during July, the middle of summer, and K.J. Choi, who spent hours on the massive 4-sided practice area, kept saying, “I no sweat. I no sweat.” That’s a testament to the lower summer temperatures and humidity you find in nearby San Antonio.

Another tribute to the down-home friendliness, and laid-back atmosphere was PGA Tour player Rickie Fowler, who was seen several times asking members on the range if they wanted to tee it up with him. Stewart Cink and Rich Beem also came to participate.

Boot Ranch: the golf experience Sutton made mental notes all during his golfing career. He thought

today’s golf-course architect made most of the decisions for you. What he studied for Boot Ranch was a layout where you, the golfer, became


The Texas Hill Country’s emblem of luxurious private golf course communities

By David R. Holland

the decision-maker. Some call it “multiple shot options” but during your round here you get to constantly decide the best route. Sutton says those players who choose correctly are the smart players.

One hole loaded with options is the dogleg left 528-yard, par-5 No. 8. From the tee you must decide what distance is needed to fall short of Palo Alto Creek. A series of bunkers on the right can be aimed at as the ball will bound left. A successful tee shot leaves you with a layup over the creek, maybe over trees or tall creek grasses where a perfect execution still leaves a tricky chip to a substantially elevated green.

The most beautiful hole is No. 10, a 364-yard, par-4. Drive one down the left side of the fairway toward a bunker and novices will have a 100- to 130-yard approach over the creek to a green surrounded by the waterfalls and bunkers. A bunker in back gets lots of action and will challenge you just to keep the sand blast on the green. Or scratch handicappers can be bold like Choi in the movie and just bomb one to the green.

Sutton delivered five par-3s that point in different directions. Frequent Texas winds will create even more thought processing along with the decision to have an open side to every green. Falloff greens and tight lies demand you to be a proficient chipper. Another feature experts and beginners will like is the fact and equal number of holes bend right and left.

Boot Ranch: the real estate options Both golf membership and ranch membership options are available.

Members can host non-members for golf and lodging ($100 per round).

• Estate Homesites range in price from $300,000 to $2,500,000 (two acres – 18 acres) inclusive of club membership, with residences starting at 2,500 to 15,000 square feet. Builders and architects need approval by the Architectural Committee.

• Overlook Cabins are on 1/2 to 1-1/2 acres properties with all-in-prices starting in the $800’s, including lot, membership and completed structure of from one to eight bedrooms. The cabins are located behind the tenth hole.

• Sunday Houses are inspired by weekend residences shared by the original Fredericksburg settlers when they attended Sunday services in town. A limited number of fractional ownership shares are available, starting at $350,000 per share, inclusive of club membership. At about 3,800 square feet, each complex has a gathering house and four master bedroom suites.

Boot Ranch is rustic luxury in a rugged Texas setting. You won’t see many as good as this.


Quivira Golf Club


Quivira Golf Club

By David R. Holland


LOS CABOS, MEXICO – Jack Nicklaus was back on the spec-tacular Baja California peninsula again in December to christen his sixth golf course here and celebrate an area that is a deep-sea

fisherman’s paradise, a whale watcher’s haven and a destination golf re-sort mecca.

Quivira Golf Club is stunning, fun, and a treat for the visual senses. Located on the southernmost point of Baja California, this 7,139-yard, par 72, is marked by steep granite cliffs, massive windswept sand dunes and rolling inland desert punctuated by wild tropical growth and tower-ing cardón cactus of the Sonoran Desert – a cousin of the saguaros of southern Arizona.

This is where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean and the blue water panoramas from every hole are the most of any course in Los Cabos.

“This is one of the great pieces of property in the world,” Nicklaus said. “We tried to create some excitement on the mountain and in the dunes, and I believe we’ve created a golf course that plays as spectacular as it looks.

“I think Quivira is loaded with good golf holes and unique golf holes. There is good golf even before you get to the ocean holes, which will be unlike anything else in Cabo,” said Nicklaus. “I’ve never seen any place that has three holes hanging out over the ocean like this golf course does. They are unbelievable. This is a diverse golf course with inland settings, its got desert, its got ocean, its got rocks. It has a little bit of everything.”

And the future includes another 18-hole golf course. Just for the record, this will be Nicklaus’ 26th golf course in Mexico, more than any golf course designer, with five of these courses ranked in the Top 10 in Mexico.

Playing conditions are pristine enhanced by sunny 85-degree days. And the platinum paspalum grasses can be found on greens, tees, fair-ways and rough in this unique mountain-desert-ocean ecosystem.

Quivira Golf Club: It’s all about the downhill drives and viewsMany holes have downhill tee shots that are absolute fun. And

what’s different about this layout is that it has the fewest bunkers (the entire landscape base is sand) and the smallest green (at No. 13) of any course in Mr. Nicklaus’ portfolio. The front nine is par 34, the back nine is par 38 —another change from the typical.

“The 12th hole is a spectacular par 5,” Nicklaus continued. “You are standing way up on top of this dune, and the hole is nearly 600 yards from the back tee, but it won’t play like that simply because you have a 150- to 200-foot elevation change that goes down to the ocean. (It is an S-shaped journey with ocean view the entire way down).

“Then we’ve got a spectacular little par 3 at No. 13 with tees along the edge of the cliff playing into a rock outcropping that comes out into the ocean, and the green sits right in the middle of these rock outcrop-pings high above the sea. Then we’re off the ocean until we get back to the par-4 18th. From start to finish, I’d say Quivira has as much pace, variety and spectacular beauty as any course I’ve ever designed.”

Another superlative vista par 3 is No. 6, a 180-yarder that has two tiers. Bang it too far right and you might get a great kick to the pin. Too far left and you are ocean bound.

The only nerve-wracking hole is No. 5, a 310-yard par 4 that goes severely downhill to a green on a manufactured shelf. Many will go for the green from the forward tees, but this hole is being changed to include more friendly and receivable green grass once the fairway turns left and heads straight down to the green.


But perhaps it is the cart drive to No. 5 that will have many talk-ing. This takes almost 10 minutes, crosses rock bridges, built by stone masons, that span tropical gulches and switchbacks your route up the side of a mountain.

“I think the pleasure will come from the fact that we tried not to make it really difficult. I don’t think you’re going to find Quivira to be a long-playing golf course. We tried to make it so the average golfer not only plays the same holes (as the pros), but has the same experience,” Nicklaus said. “Only 1.8 percent of golfers worldwide play the back tees. So, 98.2 percent of the play is on the forward tees. That’s the audience we designed the golf course for.”

Quivira Golf Club: the “comfort” level is rare for any golf course

Included in your golf day are three comfort stations along the way that include gourmet food and sandwiches and just about any beverage you can imagine.

Behind the tee boxes at the fifth hole, at more than 200 feet above the ocean, is the “Cliffs” comfort station with ready-to-go refreshments.

A halfway house situated near the eighth green, called the “Oasis,” showcases the culinary talents of the resort’s chefs, with flavorful region-al cuisine dishes and inventive takes on classic Baja cuisine. In addition, a full bar, including a deluxe tequila bar will feature blanco, reposado and anejo tequilas.

There’s a final refreshment station named ‘Cañada” with drinks, granola bars, and various kinds of nuts next to the No. 16 tee, where your tee shot will go downhill on a par 4, 493-yard beautiful hole, punc-tuated by a huge rock formation in the middle of the fairway.

Quivira Golf Club: Clubhouse, practice facilities and lodging Quivira’s thatched-roof clubhouse offers a large rectangular bar, a

casual steakhouse, and ample outdoor seating overlooking the sea. Be-side the clubhouse is a spacious double-ended practice facility that par-allels the ocean, as well as an elongated practice putting green and an expanded short-game practice area.

Quivira Golf Club is accessible to guests of the four Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas in Los Cabos, and to owners of properties in Copala, Montecristo Estates Luxury Villas, and Novaispania Residences. Select the all-inclusive feature that pays for all your food and beverages.

A $295 golf green fee rack rate (with discounts depending on where you stay) includes the food at the comfort stations. My favorites were the ceviche, barbecued shrimp quesadillas, shrimp tacos, flank steak tacos and tuna sliders.

Each of the Pueblo Bonito Resorts welcomes guests with luxury accom-modations, fine dining and a host of on-site amenities. The Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort & Spa is right on the beach. Complimentary shuttle service to and from Quivira Golf Club is included within the Quivira development.

Nicklaus laughed when someone asked about Tiger Woods’ (and Davis Love III’s) next-door private El Cardonal at Diamante golf course opening this month.

“Who?” Jack chuckled.

You will be smiling ear to ear also when you get your first glimpse of Quivira Golf Club. It should be your first stop when visiting Los Cabos. You will not regret it.

Visit http://quiviragolfclub.com for more information.


CHARLESTON, SC. – Home to 19 championship golf cours-es, miles of pristine beaches, a buzz-worthy restaurant scene and a bounty of historic tours and attractions for all ages, the

Charleston area is the premier destination for an unbeatable golf vacation. Below is the ultimate itinerary for 72 hours and 72 holes in the Holy City by the Sea and Tee:

DAY 1:Morning: Explore Charleston’s top must-see spots in a single

leisurely morning stroll starting at the majestic White Point Gar-dens, historic Battery and Rainbow Row, and ending at Waterfront Park. Stop for brunch at Virginia’s on King for their famed Southern specialty- Shrimp and Grit Benedict with Creole Hollandaise. It’s as dangerously delicious as it sounds.

Afternoon GOLF: Journey a quick five minutes across the Ar-

thur J. Ravenel Bridge to Mount Pleasant to sharpen your skills at Patriot’s Point Links, nestled on the edge of Charleston Harbor. Of-fering players spectacular views of Shem Creek, Fort Sumter and the downtown skyline, Patriot’s Point is a favorite among golfers of all handicaps.

Evening: Take a pedicab to the rooftop of the newly-renovated

Vendue Inn, Charleston’s art hotel, for the best view & craft cocktail the city has to offer. After reminiscing on your stellar golf shots from earlier, head downstairs to the Drawing Room Restaurant for an unforgettable dinner featuring dishes that are just as gorgeous as they are delectable. Order the Foie Gras with Brandied Fruit & fresh catch of the day such as the Seared Tilefish and prepare to be amazed.

Day 2:Morning: Begin the day with a morning horse-drawn carriage

tour around America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens at Middleton Place. A National Historic Landmark, the property has remained un-der the same family stewardship for some 320 years and today brings to life the sights and sounds of a true Lowcountry rice plantation.

Afternoon GOLF: Escape downtown to Charleston’s barrier

island Resort, Wild Dunes Resort for a round of golf on either of the resort’s two Tom Fazio designed courses, The Harbor Course or The Links Course. Offering distinct challenges for distinguished golfers as well as forgiveness and fun for novices, Wild Dunes Re-sort’s 36 holes are home to some of the most beautiful fairways in the Lowcountry. Both courses also feature massive dunes, marshes and

bunkers situated along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Evening: Unwind off the links with a delicious dinner at Wild Dunes Resort’s Sea Island Grill, tucked inside the Boardwalk Inn. Featuring local and regional fare creatively prepared with seasonally changing menus, the Sea Island Grill offers upscale yet casual dining in an intimate setting. Diners are treated to a view of the Boardwalk Inn’s posh pool with mouthwatering dinner options such as Atlan-tic Grouper with Pickled Crawfish, Collard & Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin and New England Scallops with Carolina Pepper Relish.

Day 3:Morning: Spend the morning moseying down King Street for

the best in shopping, including a number of charming boutiques teeming with quintessential southern charm. Venture to The Old City Market, open seven days a week and home to scores of talented artisans selling authentic Charleston gifts and collectibles.

Afternoon GOLF: Journey to Kiawah Island Golf Resort which

claims 90 holes of competitive play on five different championship courses including Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Oak Point and host site for the 2012 PGA Championship, The Ocean Course. A Pete Dye design and home to more seaside holes than any other course in the Northern Hemisphere, The Ocean Course promises players panoramic views in addition to tricky tests of skill.

Evening: Enjoy a post-round sunset celebration at Kiawah Is-

land Golf Resort’s Ryder Cup Bar & Restaurant, offering floor to ceiling views of the surrounding Ocean Course. Sip a signature cock-tail and reminisce about the day’s unforgettable round before in-dulging in an entrée such as their heavenly Crab Cakes with Old Bay Remoulade or Pork and Broccoli Rabe Sliders.

Charleston & Resort Islands GolfMore than 200 years ago, Charleston was the site of America’s

first golf club. This heritage of golfing excellence is evident today. Guests have convenient access to more than 19 championship cours-es, created by legendary architects including Arnold Palmer, Rees Jones, Gary Player, Arthur Hills, Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The area also offers plenty of year-round activity off the course. They range from historic tours and attractions to inshore and offshore fishing and award-winning dining, as well as a year-round calendar of festivals and events. For reservations or more information on these packages and others available in the area, please visit www.charlestongolfguide.com or call 800-774-4444.

72 HOURS & 72 HOLESThe Ultimate Three-Day Getaway

Charleston


Wild Dunes Resort

Patriot’s Point Links

Kiawah Island Golf Resort


Miura Golf, the family-owned Japanese golf company that is fa-mous among club aficionados for producing some of the finest forged irons in the world through their carefully hand-crafted

process, has introduced a more advanced version of its successful cavity-back series with the release of the Limited Edition 1957 CB irons.

Named after the year that Miura company founder Katsuhiro Miura began his career in golf club building and design at the age of 16 in cen-tral Japan, the CB57 model is considered a benchmark in the history of the 50-year old company that has produced iron forgings for some of the top names in professional golf and continues to be known for its hand-crafted attention to detail and quality for connoisseurs of fine clubs.

“We are a boutique company and our philosophy is to introduce new product only when we feel we can produce a better club,” said Bill Ho-lowaty, the Executive Vice President, Product Strategies for Miura Golf, which runs its North American operations from an office in Vancouver, British Columbia. “The development of the CB57 came from Mr. Miura and his sons watching and talking to many professional players on the practice range and even listing to the sound of the clubs hitting the turf to gain feedback for building a better iron.”

The Series 1957 line of Miura clubs, which includes the famous small (or “baby”) blade and the K-Grind wedges, is a special class of Miura dis-tinction, reserved for the most favored designs of the company.

The CB57 head features a medium-sized cavity and a progressively sized weight bar to provide the benefits of perimeter weighting and so-lidity behind the hitting area. Still, the cavity is not so big as to interfere with the forged look and feel, especially from the address position. The weight bar keeps the center of gravity low, and changes size club-to-club as needed to position the CG not just down, but exactly where it needs to be.

The clean, narrow top line is Miura all the way. The sole of the club incorporates the decades of lessons Miura has learned from watching and talking to golfers, resulting in efficient, powerful turf interaction and the best chance of a square face at impact. The overall size of the head is a bit smaller than Miura’s successful CB-501 cavity back iron.

“We have made a lot of improvements with the leading edge and sole to create better contact,” added Holowaty. “It produces cleaner contact, better feel and a better launch by helping players get the club back to square. We have some of the tightest tolerances in the industry with our

forging process and each club is hand made.”The 14-step forging process used by Miura also dictates that the raw

forging be struck three times instead of the usual one, and is one of the key ingredients that making hitting one of these irons a true experience.

The smooth, silky feel and buttery turf interaction makes mass-pro-duced clubs seem clunky in comparison. The look at address of the CB57 is like a fine player’s club or muscle-back iron, but the cavity-back design gives a good amount of forgiveness while not taking away from the excel-lent feel, workability and control that these irons exhibit.

The other key factor to the Miura experience is the company’s rela-tionship to its network of club fitters throughout North America, noted Holowaty—and the relationship that the club fitter has with each of its customers. Miura clubs are only available from certified club fitters who personally fit their customers to the right club, shaft and make all of the minute adjustments that make a big difference in performance.

“We look for as much feedback as we can from a customer when we build a set of clubs for them—a lot like a mechanic when he brings a car in,” explained Jerry Molinar, owner of Marc’s Golf in Palm Desert California and one of the premier Miura club fitters on the West Coast.

“We want to know if you are hitting it right, low—tell us what is go-ing on with your game and let us diagnose it. We want to build that relationship with the customer so that it is an on-going dialogue to help their game.”

Molinar, who has been fitting clubs in this golf resort-heavy area of Southern California for 15 years and worked with the likes of Lee Trevino and Chi Chi Rodriquez who frequent the desert, noted that Miura irons are a favorite of his clientele who know about their history of quality.

“Many of my customers are better players who know the quality of the Japanese forging process by Miura,” added Molinar. “For them it is like looking for a Rolls Royce instead of a Mercedes. “With these CB57’s we get a lot of feedback about the clean top line, soft feel, satin finish and how well they get through the turf.”

For more information, visit the Miura website at: www.miuragolf.com

There is nothing like a shiny new golf bag as a holiday gift, and with that in mind TaylorMade Golf is introducing its most stylish and performance enhanced lineup yet for the coming year in its collec-

tion designed to accommodate just about any golfer. The stand bags in the 2015 collection feature intriguing asymmetri-

cal panels and contoured top designs with integrated handles in a wide range of colors. In addition, the bags feature a Velcro glove tab, scorecard pocket for easy access and a 4-point comfort shoulder strap system. Se-lect bags feature a large pocket with a double-zipper to allow the golfer to avoid cart straps from blocking access.

All zippers have been redesigned for ergonomic enhancement. The inclusion of lightweight yet durable materials have allowed for weight reductions across the entire offering.

Cart bags feature refined top designs with optimal storage and func-tionality. Partially exposed top constructions provide an aesthetically ap-pealing and bold update to the conventional cart bag. All bags feature double zippered garment pockets, velour lined valuables pockets, pass through cart straps, push-cart compatible bases and can accommodate oversized putter grips.

“When we talked with golfers about their current bags, we found room for improvement among the ‘little things’ from a design and func-tionality standpoint,” said Paul English, Senior Director, TaylorMade

SWEETSTUFF


Golf Accessories. “And as golfers ourselves, we agreed and focused our efforts on the details and design. By adding more color, double zippers where appropriate and unique features like the glove tab and integrated umbrella slot, we created attractive and functional bags for any golfer.”

Highlighted by the TourLite, Supreme Hybrid, and Catalina, Tay-lorMade has an option for the walker, the rider or the player who enjoys both with its new collection.

Weighing less than four pounds, the TourLite’s ergonomic straps with air mesh ventilation, anti-split stand system, scorecard slot and glove tab make this the ultimate walking bag. Available in a variety of colors, the TourLite includes additional compartments and zippers that make access to equipment faster and easier.

Designed for a golfer who enjoys walking the course on occasion, but also enjoys cart riding, the Supreme Hybrid features the storage space of a cart bag with the mobility of a lightweight stand bag.

A great bag that can accommodate walking or riding, The Supreme Hybrid is complete with two slots to accommodate oversized putter grips, double zippered garment pocket, a four-point shoulder strap with air mesh for ventilation, an anti-split stand system and a cart compatible base. The 14-way top with full length dividers is a nice touch to keep your clubs separated for easy in and out, and the 10 pockets includes a valuables pocket, water pouch and plenty of room for sunglasses, outer garments and accessories, in addition to the glove tab.

The Catalina cart bag boasts style, functionality and durability. Com-prised of a 15-way top with an integrated water-resistant umbrella slot, oversized integrated putter well, double zippered garment pockets and four full-length dividers, the Catalina is an excellent bag for any cart. It also features 10 pockets; integrated top and trunk handles; cart-lock strap and a push-cart, compatible base.

Another choice in the new TaylorMade Golf bag line is the Quiver, which features a 2-way top, ergonomic shoulder straps and four total pockets for a simple, lightweight, “Sunday” bag. The PureLite weighs less than five pounds, and has a 5-way top with integrated handle and four point shoulder straps with air mesh for ventilation. The San Clemente

has two slots for oversized putter grips, has a push cart compatible base and seven total pockets including double zippered garment pockets.

For more information: www.taylormadegolf.com

Despite all of the technological ad-vances available in

today’s sunglasses, the prob-lem of glare when looking up towards the sun continues to be very real for golfers play-ing in bright conditions.

Polarization for sunglass lenses has been around for over 50 years and has been very popular, but the process also creates issues with blotchiness when looking towards the sun, difficulty reading GPS, cellphones, watches and electronic readouts and only blocks reflective glare, not direct glare.

The F.A.A. has even banned polarized lenses for pilots in flight be-cause they interfere with reading digital instruments that are required

to operate planes safely. Po-laroid lenses are outdated and deemed “unsafe” in the digital age by many.

That is why Bruce Hold-en, the owner of Zurich Ex-treme Glare in Northern California, has developed a breakthrough sunglass lens product to alleviate these deficiencies with polarized lenses and other systems. Zurich International’s Ex-treme Glare Swiss Technol-ogy (XG) was originally de-

SWEETSTUFFby TerryRoss


SWEETSTUFFveloped for extreme high altitude skiing and mountain climbing where one can be blinded quickly (in a few hours or less) from the sun, plus exposure to all the harmful rays.

Polarization is a method developed to reduce glare from reflective sur-faces. Extreme Glare technology blocks a tremendous amount of reflective glare (from off water, snow, metal surfaces, etc.) AND direct glare from the sun. It makes it possible to fly/drive/look directly into the sun and not lose sight of what you’re looking at. You can look into the bright sun’s glare and still be able to see your golf ball down the fairway. “Our lenses not only reduce the glare but also enhances the color of the greens, makes the ball look sharper and provides better contrast,” said Holden. “You can’t read anything with a polarized lens—with these lenses you can.”

Another unique quality of Extreme Glare is Holden’s ability to tailor his product for many individual uses, including prescription glass wear-ers, contact lens wearers or those that have a favorite frame—he can cre-ate a lens utilizing this anti-glare product into some of the of the finest frames on the market included Bolle, Maui Jim’s or Oakley.

Holden notes that more than half of all golfers wear prescription glasses, which is a key reason that he offers his RX solution for his sun glass products.

For prescription wearers, there are two styles of Zurich/EXtreme Glare (XG) sunglasses to choose from. The first style is the “Original” style which will fit over most RX glasses. The second style is the “Pilot” style which is for fashion wear only and are not designed to fit over RX glasses. However, both styles can be worn comfortably for those that wear contacts.

All of the company’s sunglasses have full 100% blockage protection against ultraviolet rays (UV A/B), no matter what color, shade/density, or style. The gray base lenses are for bright sunny days, and the rose base lenses for color enhancement, contrast, some sun, overcast, and hazy weather. The rose lenses will block glare too, but the shading/density will be lighter and brighter and is an excellent choice for most golfers. Gen-erally speaking, the gray lenses are for bright sunny weather, and the rose lenses are for multi-condition (from hazy to sunny) weather.

For more information: www.extremeglaresunglasses.com

Having your golf yardage measuring device also serve as a fashion-forward wearable watch is just the role for the Golf Buddy WT4 GPS watch, the newest in the lineup for one of the leaders in

golf GPS accessories.This watch, which is sleek and modern looking, sheds the often bulky

golf GPS frame without sacrificing functionality. The WT4 is loaded with new features showing more course details than most products on the market including bunkers, water hazards and even some large trees and fences with very accurate and precise course measurement as well as be-ing a fashionable and functional wristwatch.

The WT4 incorporates the supreme functionality of its predecessor, the WT3, into a slimmer, more stylish design that allows for a more com-fortable wearing experience, and an unencumbered swing.

Remarkably light and easy to wear, the WT4 features all of GolfBud-dy’s advanced features including Dynamic Green View, pin placement in-formation, and full target and hazard information. It also has a shot mode to track how far you hit your clubs--another very nice feature.

This versatile and powerful device boasts a 14-hour battery life in GPS mode and a 20-day battery life in watch mode. The WT4 also features analogue and digital watch modes, including time, date, and stopwatch functions. It is complete with more than 37,000+ pre-loaded

verified golf courses worldwide, offering superior accuracy.

Featuring GolfBuddy’s Au-tomatic Course & Hole Recogni-tion technology, the WT4 device always knows exactly what course and hole you’re playing on. The Digital Scorecard feature can be used on any of the 37,000 + pre-loaded courses from around the world. The WT4 has a maximum capacity of 40,000 courses.

Suitable for everyday wear, the GolfBuddy WT4 boasts a subtle yet elegant color scheme of black and grey, accented in red. The WT4 is 100% fee-free with no an-nual subscriptions or course down-load charges to pay after purchase.

For more information about GolfBuddy visit:

www.golfbuddyglobal.com

The merging of the physics of golf and fitness training is something that has been embraced on the professional tours for some time. For recreational golfers this is a concept that continues to get in-

creased awareness and traction in the market place as players discover they can enjoy the game longer and feel better with fitness programs built around preparing the body for the physical demands of the game.

Now, probably the top maker of indoor golf simulators--San Diego-based Full Swing Golf--has struck a global partnership with Germany-based gym solution LogicalGolf to bring both the driving range and in-door fitness studio together in one place where players that are serious about their game can work on both aspects in the comfort of their home or in a studio.

“We’re excited to enter this partnership with Robert Baker, who is the founder and creator of LogicalGolf,” said Chad Coleman, vice presi-dent of sales and marketing at Full Swing Golf. “Robert is one of the world’s most renowned and forward-thinking golf instructors. His gym solution, LogicalGolf, is the best golf fitness solution we’ve ever seen and it’s an ideal complement to our simulator and Swing Catalyst offerings.

“Our customers can use our simulators and Swing Catalyst to iden-tify common weaknesses, such as slow clubhead and ball speed, poor hip rotation, early hinge release or limited range of motion, and then turn to LogicalGolf’s tools to strengthen their golf muscles, improve flexibility, and groove perfect swing movements into muscle memory. Then they can measure the results of their fitness efforts, using our simulators and Swing Catalyst. This combined package gives golfers everything they need to make lasting improvements in their game.”

Baker, who helped train Ernie Els while he was the world’s top-ranked golfer, believes that his company’s Gym Solutions golf training equipment is an ideal complement to Full Swing Golf. With Gym Solu-tions, Baker has isolated perfect golf swing movements and developed training equipment to help strengthen and improve those movements for golfers, and improve their muscle memory in these areas.

“We now have the perfect partnership with Gym Solutions and Full


SWEETSTUFFby TerryRoss

Swing Golf simulators,” added Baker. “The Full Swing simulator allows you to measure the characteristics of every shot, and the Gym Solutions allows you to train individual movements for the swing. Gym Solutions gives you the muscle memory and allows you to build an entire swing. You can take your improvements back to the simulator, measure yourself again, and see what you’ve developed. It’s the perfect platform, and us-ing them in combination with each other you’ll be able to develop your perfect game.”

For more information about the Full Swing Golf simulators and LogicalGolf fitness programs and products, visit their websites at www.fullswinggolf.com and www.logicalgolf.com/en/

New adjustability options along with refinements in the center of gravity (CG) have made the new E8 Exotics driver line by Tour Edge even longer off the tee and easier to hit.

Tour Edge is well-known for making drivers that are among the longest in the marketplace. The E8 drivers--available in two options--E8 and E8 Beta--both feature new adjustability features with loft modifications and an interchangeable sole weight. A discerning fea-ture of the E8 models involves the center of gravity (CG) location focusing on faster ball speeds. Compared with previous models, the E8 both feels and sounds more explosive off the tee with noticeably higher launch to maximize distance.

Engineers positioned E8’s CG slightly lower and forward for a higher launch, and faster ball speed with less spin. The Beta utilizes a higher, more forward CG position to produce a more penetrating trajectory, increased ball velocity, and minimal spin.

The standard E8 clubhead is customized with a 460cc titanium head and improved weighting with a noticeable lower profile. The driver’s forgiving construction also produces an easy-launching, high trajectory design for maximum accuracy and forgiveness.

The Beta driver is highlighted by a Beta Titanium that features

a 440cc low-spin, deeper-faced head that produces a slightly lower, and more boring trajectory.

The Power Grid on the bottom of the club has been refined in both models of the E8. The E8 clubhead’s channel is remark-ably deeper, further enhancing the accordion effect and increasing spring-effect at impact and creating more distance. The Power Grid on the Beta models are strategically narrower than on the E8. This allows the center of gravity to be positioned closer to the face in the

Beta, creating a powerful launch with minimal spin.In both models the cells within the Power Grid are aligned in

offsetting rows, strengthening the design and allowing the cells to be made thinner for added flexibility and a more powerful launch.

Variable face thickness technology offers multiple levels of thick-ness that maximize the spring-like effect from more points on the face, especially in the heel and toe areas.

The E8 clubheads can be adjusted easily with its torque wrench to include loft options from 8.5 to 12 degrees in ½ degree incre-ments. This advanced versatility gives players a wide latitude of ad-justments to allow for greater control in achieving optimal distance and accuracy.

The E8 collection also showcases an added adjustability option by incorporating an interchangeable sole weight. The club comes standard with a 7-gram weight in the sole, but can be changed with the purchase of an optional weight kit. The three-piece weight kit includes a 5-gram, 10-gram and 12-gram weights. The driver’s swing weight can be adjusted by altering the weight in the sole in a man-ner of seconds, allowing players to further dial in their desired flight and feel.

For more Information: www.touredge.com

Golf Vacations Magazine December 2014

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Transcript of Golf Vacations Magazine December 2014