Golf Vacations Magazine October 2011

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contents I october 2011

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269 ChipShots

Updates From The World Of Golf & Travel

36 Sweet Stuff by Terry Ross

FootJoy, Sunice, Tifosi Optics

38 Golf Gear by Terry Ross

TaylorMade Introduces New Technology

d e p a r t m e n t s

on the cover: Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club outside Tampa, Florida

Teeing Up On The Peninsula de Cortezby Dave McKibben

Shelly Haywood, an LPGA pro, was having a hard time keeping her mindon her next shot. To her immediate left, two dolphins splashed about inthe Sea of Cortez’s tranquil and deep blue waters, just a lob wedge away.

Football and Foursomesby Steve Donahue

It doesn’t matter which part of the country golfers visit during fall –the locals are crazy about golf and college football – and not neces-sarily in that order.

5 Must Plays In Caribbean Paradiseby David Wood

Combine jaw-dropping seascapes, warm tropical trade winds waftingacross lush fairways and the elite of course architecture plying their crafton the prettiest of Nature’s handiwork and we’re talking golf to savor.

Resort Report: Innisbrook Resort & GCby James McAfee

If you haven’t been to Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club recently, itmight be time to go back as new owners Salamander Hospitality havespent almost $30 million in an effort to return it to its past glory.

c o v e r s t o r i e s

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6 GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 www.golfvacationsmag.com

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Y o u r S o u r c e f o r R a r e C o i n sa n d P r e c i o u s M e t a l s

Executive EditorJeffrey Diaz

Associate EditorTerry Ross

Features EditorLarry Feldman

Senior WritersTom LaMarreFred Robledo

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call: (760) 774-2655 e-mail: [email protected]

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Golf Vacations Magazine is published in digital format monthly and distributed online to over 1,000,000 golfer’s email inboxes each issue.

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Dave McKibben is a former award-winning sportswriter for the Los AngelesTimes who covered nearly every sport imaginable during his 20-year career,including the PGA and LPGA tours. He resides in Carlsbad, Ca., he has hisown media company, specializing in sports public relations. He has a passionfor golf and traveling, teeing it up in Scotland, Portugal and Hawaiian islands.He can be reached at [email protected]


James McAfee is a freelance golf and travel writer based in Wylie, TX. He was exec-utive director of the Northern Texas PGA for 17 years and executive director of theDallas District Golf Association for eight years. With editor stints at Golf ShopOperations, Golf Digest and Texas Golfer Magzaine he is currently the director of com-munications for GolfDFW.com. He has been a member of the Golf Writers of Americafor 37 years and was one of the founders for the Texas Golf Writers Association. Playingthe game for 56 years he was recently named to the U.S. Amateur Golf Hall of Fame.

David Wood In addition to writing on golf and travel, author and noted speaker DavidWood has made several appearances on Late Night with David Letterman as well asdozens of other television shows. His book - Around the World in 80 Rounds - was justreleased in paperback on www.Amazon.com. Currently he works in public relationswith Buffalo Communications in Vienna, VA. His website iswww.DavidWoodSpeaking.com.

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

Upda te s f rom t he Wor ld o f Go l f & Trave l >> chip shotsROATAN’S PRISTINE BAY RESORT’S‘GOLF IN PARADISE’ PACKAGE

ROATAN, HONDURAS – Pristine BayResort – located on the idyllic Caribbeanisland of Roatan -- announces its “Golf inParadise” stay-and-play package highlightedby luxurious villa accommodations androunds on the Perry and Pete Dye-designed Black Pearl course.

Offering savings of more than 30 per-cent (through March 31, 2012), the Golf inParadise package starts at $775 per person(plus tax, double occupancy). It includesfour rounds of championship golf onRoatan’s only course, the acclaimed Peteand Perry Dye-designed Black Pearl; fivedays’ / four nights’ accommodations in awell-appointed villa with private pool; anddaily breakfast.

Packages may be customized to includescuba diving, zip lining, deep-sea fishing andother activities.

“Our Golf in Paradise offer presents anexceptionally enticing opportunity to savorthe many wonders of Pristine Bay, The BlackPearl and Roatan,” says Mario Toriello,Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “The

splendid trifecta of championship golf, luxu-ry amenities and natural beauty of theCaribbean’s last ‘undiscovered’ islandmakes Pristine Bay an ideal escape.”

Pristine Bay’s luxury five-star resort hotelis scheduled for its grand opening later thisyear with 30 standard guest rooms, 11 two-bedroom villas, five-star restaurant “LasPergolas,” beachfront infinity pools andpalapa bar. The 25,000-square-foot BeachClub showcasing the largest infinity edgepool in Central America (18,000 squarefeet), two hard courts for tennis, privatebeach, international restaurant, pool bar andgrill, croquet field, movie theatre, pro shopand fully-equipped locker rooms will make aNovember debut.

Additional information about PristineBay Resort, The Black Pearl and Golf inParadise package may be gleaned by visitingwww.pristinebayresort.com or calling713. 489.2554.

FARMLINKS GC AT PURSELL FARMSHOSTS PORK & PIGSKINS EVENT

SYLACAUGA, AL – FarmLinks GolfClub at Pursell Farms www.farmlinks.org

– featuring the world’s only agronomicresearch and demonstration golf course – isholding the ultimate Pork & Pigskins tail-gating extravaganza on Saturday, Nov. 5,coinciding with the SoutheasternConference college football showdownbetween Alabama and LSU.

SEC football rules in this section of thecountry, so FarmLinks’ inaugural eventoffers a unique opportunity to combine oneof the biggest games on the 2011 collegeschedule with an outstanding barbecue, ledby Scott Jones, former Southern Livingexecutive food editor.

“Pork & Pigskins is a way to bringdiehard fans of SEC football and world-classbarbecue together in a beautiful setting andenjoy what promises to be a great game and

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 9www.golfvacationsmag.com

Pristine Bay

Upda te s f rom t he Wor ld o f Go l f & Trave l >> chip shotsfantastic event,” says Erle Fairly, presidentof FarmLinks.

For $99, participants will add a little siz-zle to the big game by enjoying a barbecueseminar with Jones. The event begins at 12p.m. CST, and all participants will receive abottle of their very own signature rub aftercreating it using a variety of salts, sugars,spices and heat sources. The Alabama-LSUgame will be shown while a mouth-wateringbarbecue supper is served, along withsnacks and beverages.

Guests can make an entire weekend ofthe Pork & Pigskin event by playing golf onthe state’s No.-1-ranked public course,going fishing or trying their hand at the 5-stand clay shooting range at FarmLinks.Overnight accommodations are also availablein FarmLinks’ luxury cottages or cabins.

Space is limited for the Pork & Pigskinsevent. To make a reservation, or for moreinformation, call 205.403.4653.

“UNLIMITED GOLF PACKAGE” ATLA COSTA GOLF COURSES

CARLSBAD, CA. – La Costa Resortand Spa, home to one of golf’s iconic ven-ues, has an irresistible offer for enthusiasticgolfers, with an “Unlimited” package thatincludes unlimited golf for two, encouragingguests to play all day, every day, during theduration of their stay.

Golfing guests can be among the firstto enjoy La Costa’s recently completedgolf course renovation project, whichincludes the new Champions Course(formerly the North Course) and modifi-cations to the South Course, whichtogether restore the legendary destinationto world-class standards. The golf courseproject caps off a $50 million total resortrenovation encompassing guest rooms,conference and public spaces, pools, spaand dining establishments.

The “Unlimited Golf Package,” avail-able for resort stays beginning November

11, 2011, is based on a two-night minimumstay and includes:

• Luxury accommodations for two • Unlimited golf for two daily • Golf cart (shared) • Breakfast buffet for2 at Legends Bistro• Custom Yardage Guide • Rates begin from $555 per night (double

occupancy), a 44% savings off a la carte rates.The Champions Course at La Costa is

once again a true reflection of the resort’srich golf history and tradition. Whileembracing the integrity of the originalDick Wilson design, which challenged thegreatest names in the game for more than40 years, the completely renovated layoutcaptures La Costa’s timeless appeal. Thedesign team of Damian Pascuzzo andSteve Pate (2P Golf Course Design(www.2pgolfdesign.com), in associationwith golf course architect Jeff Brauer,added new features including strategicallydesigned and repositioned bunkers,

refined fairway routing, expanded nativegrass areas, natural wetlands and subtleelevation changes that contribute to a chal-lenging and engaging golf experience.Four holes on the Champions Course arecompletely new designs.

While all the greens on the ChampionsCourse were replaced, four greens on theSouth Course have been relocated, withthe South Course routing remaining intact.Significant alterations to the contours ofthe fairways – which have been capped by3,000 truckloads of sand – along withadvanced drainage technology haveimproved water flow throughout the entire36-hole venue, significant to maintainingworld-class playing conditions year ‘round.

More than 30 acres of turfgrass havebeen eliminated to conserve water, with theChampions Course remodel incorporatingmore extensive use of native grasses. Thenew greens are Bentgrass, featuring inter-nal contours that create movement in the

putting surface. The fairways are 419Bermuda, while the rough and newly estab-lished native areas include paspalum, adrought- and salt water-tolerant turf.Several new lakes have been added, as well.

For more details about the “UnlimitedGolf Package,” or to make a reservation,visit the La Costa Resort and Spa websiteat www.lacosta.com.\

PRINCEVILLE'S PRINCE GOLFCOURSE TO REOPEN DEC. 14th

PRINCEVILLE, KAUAI, HI –Kauai’s acclaimed Princeville PrinceGolf Course, one of the top-rankedcourses in Hawaii and Top 100 in theUnited States, has announced a reopeningdate of December 14 to unveil the newlyrenovated course.

The Prince has been closed sinceJanuary 29 for an extensive renovationproject, including: complete reconstruc-tion of putting greens with SeaDwarfSeashore Paspalum turf and sub-surfacematerial to meet modern USGA specifica-tions; remodeling of bunkers to improvedrainage, playability, visibility, and strategicvalue; clearing of fairways, streams, andvisual impediments surrounding holes thathave encroached upon the design intent ofthe course over the years; widening of fair-ways and reshaping of greens; tee levelingand addition of new tees for added shotvalue and variety; and improvements toensure the course will be consistentlymaintained in superb condition.

In addition, the Prince’s spectacular60,000-square-foot clubhouse will com-plete its second phase of refurbishment tocoincide with the golf course reopening.The Tavern Restaurant by RoyYamaguchi and the Prince Golf Shop,both located on the lower level of thePrince Clubhouse, will continue to remainopen during the renovation.

Heritage Links has been carrying outthe construction and renovation work andwill manage all golf and club operationswhen the course reopens. The award-win-ning firm of Robert Trent Jones II, GolfCourse Architects (RTJ II) is serving as leadarchitect on the project under the directionof Chairman and Master Architect RobertTrent Jones, Jr., who designed the PrinceCourse, which was completed in 1990.

“Perhaps our most dramatic refinementefforts have been focused on the complete


reconstruction of every green complex,recapturing hole locations that have beenlost over time,” notes Jones. “We have gen-tly reconfigured the contours in the greensurfaces to accommodate the green speedsthat will be achieved by the newly plantedpaspalum variety of turf grass. In addition,fairway mowing patterns have been wideneddramatically to promote a more enjoyableexperience for players of all skill levels.”

The Prince Golf Course is known equal-ly for its challenging play, breathtaking

natural beauty, and magnif-icent layout that follows thenatural contours of the land,encompassing 350 acres ofrolling terrain, tropical jungle,gullies, streams, and waterfalls.In recent years, the Prince wasconsistently ranked as thenumber one course in Hawaiiand is recognized on GolfDigest's prestigious list of"America’s 100 GreatestCourses” for 2011/2012. Formore information on the

Prince Course, call toll-free 1-800-826-1105,direct (808) 826-5001, or visitwww.princeville.com

DRAMATIC WHISTLING ROCK CCOPENS OUTSIDE OF SEOUL

Chuncheon, South Korea – One ofthe most dramatic golf courses to emergein many years, Whistling Rock CountryClub, opens today (September 26) inChuncheon, 50 minutes east of Seoul.

The club showcases 27 holes of world-class golf by renowned international golfarchitect Ted Robinson, Jr. The routingat Whistling Rock follows strategic eleva-tion changes in mountain hillsides.Respecting the natural elements of thediverse landforms, Robinson has integrat-ed 15 lakes into this design. These lakesare connected by numerous streams andseveral cascading waterfalls that notonly enhance shot values, but defineWhistling Rock’s striking aesthetics.

A creative combination of choices andchallenges, Whistling Rock is a genuinegolf adventure that poses enticingrisk/reward scenarios throughout eachnine for players at all ability levels.

“If you are playing the golf coursefrom the back tees, it has every challengeyou can possibly think of,” Robinson says.“It will test your skills. But it is alsostraightforward, with sets of tees for everyplayer to have an opportunity to succeedon a golf course that is fun to play.”

An upscale, private country club,

TorreTHE CUISINE OF ITALY“Combining Old-World Italian comfort food with personalized service,a congenial atmosphere and an extensive wine list, La Torretta excelsas one of Arizona’s most impressive restaurants” — Dining Out

With a menu that utilizes the freshest and most authentic ingredientsand pasta made fresh in-house daily, the restaurant’s culinary fare isconsistently delicious and refreshing.Their Osso Buco,Taglio del VitelloFarcito con Quattro Farmagio and Veal Piccata have become locallegends and inspired positive reviews from the Scottsdale Republic,the New Times, Guest Informant, TravelHost, and Scottsdale Magazine.

The combination of La Torretta’s sophisticated interior and authenticfood make it a prime candidate for intimate dinners to groupcelebrations of special occasions.

LIVE WELL • LOVE MUCH • LAUGH OFTEN

LA TORRETTARistorante & Italian Steakhouse

16640 N. Scottsdale Rd • SW corner Frank Lloyd Wright/Scottsdale RdScottsdale • 480.991.2000 • www.latorrettaaz.com

Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-2pm • Dinner Daily 4:30-9:30pm

Upda te s f rom t he Wor ld o f Go l f & Trave l >> chip shots

Upda te s f rom t he Wor ld o f Go l f & Trave l >> chip shotsWhistling Rock has three nine-hole loops,each possessing its own distinctive traits,maintaining a strategic and artistic rhythmregardless of the order in which they areplayed. The loops are named Cocoon,Temple and Cloud for the three signa-ture tea houses that grace the golf course.Each nine plays to par 36, with comple-menting yardages – Cocoon measuring amaximum of 3,571 yards, with Temple at3,654 and Cloud at 3,646.

Integral to the design is Robinson’scapacity to vary the degree of challengefrom hole to hole.

On the Cocoon nine, the demanding,uphill third hole (474 yards, par 4) is fol-lowed by a sharp dogleg (359 yards, par 4),where the green is reachable from the teewith a bold carry across bedrock-linedwater. And while the green at the par-3eighth hole is nearly encircled by sand, thefairway on the par-4 ninth is wide open.

On the Temple nine, the par-3 8threquires maximum distance (256 yards)and accuracy, but the 9th is a 376-yard par4 that rewards a safe, short play off the tee.The 9th features one of the most identifi-able points on the golf course – a suspen-sion bridge that connects the fairway andgreen, stretching across a natural bedrockcanyon high above the water below.

The Cloud nine revolves around afive-hole stretch called “The Glen,” a


segment thatrepresents somuch of whatmakesWhistlingRock special:steep rockfaces, elevat-ed tees, cas-cading water-falls, lakeside

greens and dense forest throughout. Whistling Rock has been developed by

Donglim Resort Development Co., LTD.,a subsidiary of Taekwang Group, a leadingSouth Korean conglomerate with holdingsin textiles, chemical, industry, cable televi-sion and financial services (insurance).

A spectacular clubhouse, designed byFrancine Houben of Macanoo Architects(Delft, The Netherlands) is the anchor ofclub and has been inspired by beautifulmountain scenery. The building sits at thejunction between the existing mountain

ridge and the cultivated landscape of thegolf course. Formally in contrast with itslush, undulating surroundings, the rectilin-ear clubhouse appears as a beacon fromacross the golf course. The building con-cept consists of two strong Travertine stoneslabs floating above the surrounding land-scape. Internal and external patios crossthe stone slabs to create a diversity of out-door spaces and art gardens.

The tea houses at Whistling Rock cre-ated as sculptural objects that vary fromone another and serving as visual iconswithin the landscape, offer players aunique moment of relaxation during theround. Each tea house takes its cue fromthe natural surroundings and carries thetheme of each nine.

Landscape architects Ken Alpersteinand David Fisher of Pinnacle Design(Palm Desert, California) worked closelywith Robinson, Houben and other consult-ants to create a customized plant paletteand oversee construction details to meet

the project’s specific requirements. Pinnacle artfully blended the natural

surroundings of the project site with theshaping of the golf course and positioningof the clubhouse. The planting of thou-sands of native trees, including, JapaneseRed Pine, Korean Pine, native dogwood,oak and cherry, has reinvigorated the prop-erty. These species – mostly transplantsfrom original growth on site – weregrouped and placed in groves to maximizetheir influence on the natural appearanceof the golf course.

The mountainous resort area ofChuncheon sits in a basin flanked by lakesand rivers. The town and its environs, apopular vacation and festival destination, issurrounded by Lake Uiam to the west,Chuncheon Lake to the north and, fur-ther east, massive Soyang Lake.

Membership to the country club is byinvitation only. For additional information,visit the Web site at www.whistlingrock-resort.com

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • O C TOB E R 2011 13www.golfvacationsmag.com

DESTINATIONS WHERE TO STAYWHERE TO PLAY

Upda te s f rom t he Wor ld o f Go l f & Trave l >> chip shots

http://www.morganrun.com

Teeing Up On The Peninsula de Cortez

by Dave McKibben

Puerto Penasco • Mexico


It was a scene that even Jack Nicklaus and Jack NicklausII couldn’t have envisioned when they designedPeninsula de Cortez Golf Club in Puerto Penasco,Mexico. Standing on the 14th tee on a late Septemberday, Shelly Haywood, an LPGA pro, was having a hard

time keeping her mind on her next shot. To her immediate left,two dolphins splashed about in the Sea of Cortez’s tranquil anddeep blue waters, just a lob wedge away.

“That is pretty cool,” Haywood said. “I can’t believe how closethey are. They must be swimming in only a foot or two of water.”

As Haywood contemplated the daunting task ahead of her,carving a 6-iron 160 yards into a small green surrounded bybunkers, she glanced back at the balmy sea and the spectacletaking place just offshore.

“I don’t want to play golf,” she said. “I just want to watchthe dolphins.”

Somehow Haywood and her playing partner, MichaelHaywood, president of the Southwest Section of the PGA, wereable to focus their attention back to the 7100-yard, par 72 layout,one of only a handful of links courses in Mexico. Links style

courses, which originated in Scotland, are known for their unevenfairways and greens, sandy soil, deep bunkers and thick rough.

“It’s a true links course,” said Shelly Haywood, the formerwomen’s coach at the University of Arizona. “There’s not a flatlie to be found.”

Puerto Penasco’s hot and dry climate won’t conjure up mem-ories of Scotland, known for having all four seasons packed intoone day. But in its layout and topography, Peninsula de Cortezhas the look of a Scottish course, in particular, the 15th at NorthBerwick in Scotland—known as the historic Redan hole.

Arguably a golf architect’s favorite type of hole, a Redan issimilar to a fortress, sheltered on three sides.

“The entire course looks like a Redan; It’s protected by atidal estuary on its inside, the inlet to the south and the Sea ofCortez to its more exposed outside,” Jack Nicklaus II said. “Thisadds to the uniqueness, the beauty and the challenge of ThePeninsula.”

It’s not unusual for a hot and sweaty single-digit handicapperto trudge into the clubhouse at Peninsula de Cortez begging for


a cold Pacifico and a shoulder to cry on after barely breakingthree digits. But the four sets of tee boxes, welcoming fairwaysand receptive greens offer every level of golfer a chance tomake par on even the most treacherous holes.

“Most Nicklaus designed courses are known for their diffi-culty level,” said Michael Haywood, director of golf at theTucson Country Club. “But this is one of the playable Nicklauscourses I’ve seen. The fairways are very forgiving and the undu-lations in the greens aren’t quite as dramatic.”

The signature hole is the sixth, a par 3, 190-yard beast thatalmost always plays into a stiff breeze. The green is surroundedby four bunkers and a pond. In six shots, no one in our grouplanded a ball on the putting surface.

The sixth might be the toughest hole, but the 412-yard, butthe par four third hole is the most visually intimidating. Fromthe tee, all that can be seen is a mound in the middle of a nar-row fairway. The golfer is faced with a second shot to a narrowgreen with brush on both sides and the sea in the distance.

Arizona tourist Cory Norton spent the week staying at theMayan Palace resort, which sits a few hundred yards south of

the course. An avid golfer who has played St. Andrews andCarnoustie in Scotland and all over Hawaii and Arizona, Nortonwasn’t expecting much from Peninsula de Cortez.

“To be honest, I was expecting a course that wasn’t all thatkept up,” said Norton, 38, who belongs to a private club inGilbert, Ariz. “But between the unique layout, the finely mani-cured greens and fairways, it’s one of the best I’ve ever played.

“I’d give the course an A and the driving range and practicefacility an A minus. If you were to play this course in Hawaii,you’d pay $225. In Arizona, it would cost $120 and it would beone of the top courses in the state.”

The Peninsula is consistently ranked among the top 20resort courses in Mexico, but you wouldn’t know it by the greenfees. On any day of the week, you can play for under $100 andit won’t take five hours to navigate all 18 holes. It can be quiteeasy to lose balls in the desert or even on the endless beach, butmost rounds are completed in less than four hours.

In Cabo, a course such as The Peninsula, might run close to $300.


“There’s not a golf course in Cabo that’s as good as this one,” said Andrew Gilchrist Anderson, directorof golf at the Mayan Palace. “When you come here, it’s a great chance to play one of the top courses in thecountry without having to pay top 10 prices.”

There is more good news for visitors from Arizona. While Arizona’s courses overseed during the fall—sometimes for up to two months-there is no down time at Peninsula de Cortez.

“We want people in Arizona to consider us the overseeding getaway,” Anderson said.

The five-year-old Peninsula course is operated by Grupo Vidanta, the largest time share and golf coursedeveloper in Mexico. Vidanta’s other courses are located on the Riviera Maya, Acapulco, Nuevo Vallartaand Los Cabos. While the course is semi-private, the resort is offering special golf packages at a one-timeonly rate.

Golfers can pay for three rounds and get two nights of lodging and food included in the deal. FromTucson and Phoenix, the Mayan resort is less than four hours away. A Mexican coastal highway that openedsouthwest of Yuma last year has reduced the drive from San Diego and Palm Springs to less than six hours.A new airport, also owned by Grupo Vidanta, is open, but so far there are no commercial flights intoPuerto Penasco.

For more information on the course and the resort go to www.VidantaGolf.com or call 1-866-321-5480.

It doesn’t matter which part of the coun-try golfers visit during fall – the localsare crazy about golf and college football

– and not necessarily in that order.

That means diehard football fans mightwant to pack their sticks when either follow-ing their teams around the country or justenjoying a golf vacation in football country.After all, fall not only means perfect weath-er in most parts of the nation where big-time football rules, it also means the climateis also superb for golf, the courses are lesscrowded than in peak season (especially onSaturday afternoons) and green fees arelower than during peak season.As proof, here are some sweet golf deals

available in some of America’s hottestpigskin outposts:

SOUTHEASTFarmLinks Golf Club at PursellFarms, Sylacauga, Ala.www.farmlinks.org/Once college-football season rolls around,Alabamans focus on the state’s twoSoutheast Conference behemoths – theUniversity of Alabama and AuburnUniversity.

While SEC football is clearly king in thisneck of the woods, FarmLinks Golf Clubat Pursell Farms in Sylacauga is offeringfolks a chance to mix golf and gridiron with

its Pork & Pigskins “tailgating” event onSaturday, Nov. 5—Alabama vs. LSU gameday – beginning at 12 noon.

For $99, participants (call 205.403.4653)will enjoy a barbecue seminar with ScottJones (barbecue enthusiast and formerSouthern Living executive food editor), abottle of signature rub to keep, snacks andbeverages during the Alabama-LSU gameand a delicious barbecue supper.

Guests can even inquire about addinglodging, golf on the state’s No. 1-rankedpublic course (according to Golfweek),fishing and 5-stand clay shooting to theirFarmLinks visit.

FOOTBALL AND FOURSOMES

By Steve Donahue

FOOTBALL AND FOURSOMESAutumn’s a Winner When Great Golf

Deals and Gridiron Favorites Meet


Golf Gulf Shores, Ala.www.golf.gulfshores.com/stay/allrates.aspxSome 260 miles southwest of Sylacauga,golfers and college grid fans in GulfShores, Ala., have a variety of opportuni-ties to stay and play through both foot-ball and basketball seasons thanks to thelocal tourism bureau’s recent sponsor-ship of the SEC.

Prime fall golf conditions, affordable stay-and-play rates starting at $73 per personper night with golf and award-winningcourses continue to draw fans each yearthrough early December.

Golf Gulf Shores www.golf.gulfshores.com – which offersnine golf courses (including Kiva Dunes,rated Alabama’s second-best public layoutby Golfweek), countless lodging options,and a wealth of fishing and outdoor activ-ities on the 32-mile-long destination’swaterfront – is also entering each groupbooking a golf getaway in a drawing tohave their golf package’s value rebated,up to $4,000. Stays must be before Nov. 7to be eligible.

See www.golf.gulfshores.com/plan/quotes/for the “Win Your Golf Trip for Free” pro-motion entry/details.

Dancing Rabbit Golf Club,Philadelphia, Miss.www.dancingrabbitgolf.comDancing Rabbit Golf Club in Philadelphia,Miss. – where SEC allegiances are dividedbetween the University of Mississippi andMississippi State – is offering a “SEC TeeTime Special” $50 green fee for footballfans the three days prior to, the day of andthe day after the LSU-Tennessee (Oct. 15),LSU-Alabama (Nov. 5), Alabama-Mississippi State (No. 12) and LSU-OleMiss (Nov. 19) games.

The $50 green fee includes 18 holes of golfon the Azaleas (the state’s No. 2 publiccourse as ranked by GOLF and Golfweek)

OTBALL AND FOURSOMESOTBALL AND FOURSOMESAutumn’s a Winner When Great Golf

Deals and Gridiron Favorites Meet



or Oaks (GOLF’s fourth-best public layout inMississippi) course, shared cart and pre-roundrange balls. Accommodations are available forall fans at Pearl River Resort www.pearlriver-resort.com (Silver Star Casino & Hotel andGolden Moon Casino & Hotel), DancingRabbit Clubhouse, Dancing Rabbit FairwayHouse and Hilton Garden Inn/Choctaw, locat-ed in the Dancing Rabbit parking lot.

The only way to book the “SEC Tee TimeSpecial” is by contacting Mark Powell inadvance (tee times are subject to avail-ability) at 601.663.0011 [email protected].

MIDWESTBranson, Missouriwww.golfbranson.comUniversity of Missouri and University ofArkansas (which is actually 90 minutes clos-er to Branson, Mo., than is Mizzou) footballfans can expect blue skies, low humidity,temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and greatgolf specials this fall in the OzarkMountains oasis that is Branson.

For example, golfers putting two foursomestogether for Thousand Hills Golf Resort’snew, unique “League Partner Package”stay-and-play special will save nearly 50%.

This customized, progressivediscount package – goodthrough April 20, 2012(excluding Thanksgiving week-end) – is based on a minimumof eight people for one night(more players are welcome) intheir choice of 2-bedroomcondos or Queen Suites. The

package price for a group of eight stayingthree nights and playing three rounds candrop as low as $50 per golfer per night (andone round per day).

The resort will even book other Bransoncourses in conjunction with this packageand staying/playing at Thousand Hills.Contact Thousand Hills Golf Resort at800.487.0769 or 417.334.4553.

There are eight exceptional courses to playin the region, including Branson Creek(Missouri’s No. 1 public course, accordingto GOLF Magazine and Golfweek),Murder Rock, Payne Stewart Golf Club(Golfweek’s third-ranked public layout inthe state) and Ledgestone.

Longaberger Golf Club, Nashport, Ohiowww.longabergergolfclub.com

Central Ohio’s ideal fall weather – sunnytemperatures in the 60s – and brilliantfoliage give Midwest golfers looking forgreat fall getaways and tee times around

Dancing Rabbit Golf Club

Branson, Missouri


popular Ohio State football games theopportunity to play two rounds of golf atLongaberger Golf Club, Ohio’s No. 1-ranked public course by GOLF andGolfweek (and No. 56 in Golf Digest’s cur-rent “America’s 100 Greatest Public GolfCourses” ranking) starting at $163 with anovernight stay in October.

The Columbus-area layout, managed byBilly Casper Golf, has two fall packages,both available Oct. 3-30. The “LongabergerFall Stay-and-Play” features two rounds ofgolf at Longaberger and an overnight stay,starting at $163 midweek, and $190 onweekends – a savings of $30 over high-sea-son rates.

The “Nine Stars of Golf Package” includes around at Longaberger and a round at near-by EagleSticks, with overnight stay, startingat $137 midweek or $157 on weekends.

Sweetgrass Golf Club at Island Resort& Casino, Harris, Michiganwww.sweetgrassgolfclub.comSweetgrass Golf Club at Island Resort &Casino in Harris, Mich., surprisingly isn’tin University of Michigan or MichiganState University territory. It’s more than asix-hour drive to both schools from this

Paul Albanese-designed course locat-ed on Michigan’sremote UpperPeninsula, but only atwo-hour drive southto Green Bay, Wis.,home of the defendingSuper Bowl championGreen Bay Packers.Not surprisingly,Wisconsinites flock toSweetgrass – rankedMichigan’s 13th-best public layout byGOLF – in droves.

Despite cool temperatures, Sweetgrassremains open until late fall. In the mean-time, daily fee rates start at $75 and stay-and-play package rates at $95 per personper night, highlighted by the popularPerfect 4-Some package’s value-driven$265 rate, which includes rounds atSweetgrass, nearby Greywalls andTimberStone, and a two-night stay at theIsland Resort & Casino.

To make a tee time at Sweetgrass Golf Clubor to book the Perfect 4-Some package withstays at the Island Resort & Casino, visittheir website or call 877-ISL-GREEN.

PACIFIC NORTHWESTSalish Cliffs Golf Club at Little CreekCasino Resort, Shelton, Washingtonwww.salish-cliffs.comThe Seattle area lays claim to the Universityof Washington, which means expect a lot ofHuskies fans to tee it up at brand-newSalish Cliffs Golf Club at Little CreekCasino Resort in Shelton, Wash., about 75minutes south of Seattle.

Golf superstar Fred Couples, a Seattlenative, made an all-day appearance at SalishCliffs’ Grand Opening Weekend, Sept. 16-18, and loved renowned architect GeneBates’ design, which has a surefire top-100ranking in its future.

Sweetgrass Golf Club

Longaberger Golf Club


Farm Hills Golf Club


Salish Cliffs will offer stay-and-play pack-ages in 2012. For now, public rates throughSeptember are $89 for 18 holes and $50 fornine, including green fees and cart. MVPPlayer’s Card Holders pay $84. The newest-model Titleist rental clubs are available for$50 (18 holes) and $30 (nine holes).

Advanced tee-time booking up to 60 days inadvance is available for those with con-firmed Little Creek Casino Resort hotelreservations by calling the golf shop at360.462.3673.

NORTHEASTPocono Mountains, Pennsylvania www.800poconos.comPennsylvania’s four-county PoconoMountains region, within easy driving dis-tance from New York City, is primarilyPenn State/Big Ten territory, although it’salso close enough that there’s some alle-giance to Temple, Rutgers and Syracuse.

Golfers have more than 35 courses ofdifferent price points and styles fromwhich to choose in the Poconos, whichoffers brilliant foliage and crisp, cool fall

days. Among the many value-laden dealsat Pocono Mountains golf courses is the“Golf Package” offered by The ShawneeInn and Golf Resort, which is celebrat-ing its centennial this year. The package,valid through Nov. 20, includesovernight accommodations, breakfast,cart and green fees on the 18-holechampionship island course that hostedthe 1938 PGA Championship, sevendays a week. Midweek rates start at $108per person, per night, and include taxand service charge. Visitshawneeinn.com to book.

Shawnee Inn

Salish Cliffs Golf Club • photo by Brian Oar

Caribbean Escape5Must Plays in ParadiseCaribbean Escape5Must Plays in Paradise

By DavidWOOD

n Escapein Paradise

n Escapein Paradise

There is a glorious aspect to seaside golf. TheCaribbean islands have it in spades. Combinejaw-dropping seascapes viewed from puttinggreens, warm tropical trade winds wafting acrosslush fairways and the elite of course architecture

plying their craft on the prettiest of Nature’s handiworkand we’re talking golf to savor. Here are five “must plays”in the Caribbean:

1. The Black Pearl – Pristine Bay Resort – Roatan,Honduras

The Black Pearl is laid out on one of the best canvaseswe’ve worked with,” says legendary course architect PeteDye. Located 35 miles off the Honduran coast, Roatan isresplendent with unblemished, sugar sand beaches coexist-ing in harmony with azure Caribbean waters so shockingly

blue it almost hurts to gaze too long. Like its pirate shipinfluenced moniker, it’s all sinisterly enticing.

The par-72, 7,179-yard layout is Dye’s first project inHonduras. The course starts at the ocean’s doorstep andrises into the island’s rolling foothills before taking golferson a wild and woolly ride back to the seaside clubhouse.It features one of Dye’s signature island greens, and 14holes with unfettered views of the ocean and Meso-American Barrier Reef. This is championship golf in para-dise. www.pristinebayresort.com

2. Cinnamon Hill – Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa –Montego Bay, Jamaica

Cinnamon Hill is like a Whitman’s Sampler ofJamaica’s awesome beauty combining fragrant foliage,verdant mountains and tranquil Montego Bay vistas. Its15th green is serenaded by the smoothing cascade of anidyllic waterfall that was the site of a dramatic scene fromthe James Bond flick “Live and Let Die.” Like 007, you’rein for thrill after thrill as this course peaks at 350-feetabove sea-level and crescendos with holes so close to theocean you think you’ll need fins with soft spikes.

The Black Pearl

CARIBBEAN


Designed by RobertVon Hagge, painstakingcare was taken toensure the history andrich flora and fauna ofRose Hall Estate -- a for-mer sugar plantationbuilt in 1790 by awealthy British planter –was untarnished for the18. This splendid courseplays to 6828 yardsagainst a par of 72. It’sall the golf (and scenery)you’ll ever need.www.rosehallresort.com

3. Teeth of the Dog– Casa de CampoResort – La Romana,Dominican Republic

Like Pablo Picassomust have done, PeteDye seems to knock outmasterpiece designswith ease. "The oppor-tunity to carve out Teethof the Dog was a once-in-a-lifetime experi-ence," Dye says in hisbook “Bury Me In a PotBunker.” "Without prop-er heavy machinery tocrack the coral, the tire-less Dominican crewused sledgehammers,pickaxes and chisels."The result is aCaribbean golf Eden.

With devilishdoglegs and Dye’sclever slight-of-handcausing havoc thiscourse has captivated

golfers for 40 years. The trade winds up the ante (andhopes of a good score) even more. As Dye says modestly,"Seven holes were created by God.” The other 11 werefrom another design genius. Playing Teeth of the Dog is amust. www.casadecampo.com.do

4. La Cana Golf Course – Puntacana Resort and Club –Higuey, Dominican Republic

Golf courses don’t come much closer to the sea than LaCana Golf Course. Designed by P. B. Dye, La Cana fea-tures 14 ocean-view holes with four playing right on thewater’s edge. It’s not often one’s given a choice to eitherhit your next shot or snorkel – that’s how close the agua is.And like most of the magnificent Caribbean – the water isas blue as it gets.

The course is flat-out superb. With emerald green fair-ways juxtaposed against white sand bunkers; the Dye fam-ily’s love of ubiquitous railroad ties; and creative green

Cinnamon Hill

Teeth Of The Dog

CARIBBEAN

www.golfvacationsmag.com GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 29

complexes that are as beguilingto putt as they are smooth; thelayout has an innovative auraproving the Dyes’ sure what todo when given great land to plytheir dynastic skills. La Cana is7,178 yards of pure golf.www.puntacana.com

5. Tierra del Sol Resort &Country Club – Malmok Beach,Aruba

Designed by Robert TrentJones II, Tierra del Sol Resort &Country Club sits regally on thenorthwest side of Aruba. Openfor visitors play, this LesserAntilles gem has the unlikely, butthought-provoking, characteristicof being a "desert course withocean views.” The target-style design and constant tradewinds provide a unique challenge that calls for repeatedplay to master its numerous subtleties.

The 6,811-yard layout serpentines amid marshes and

native cactus with ocean views from 13 of 18 holes. Thereare many reasons to visit intriguing Aruba with its laidbackways and sunny climate, and now, golf is chief amongthem. www.tierradelsol.com

La Cana Golf Course

Tierra del Sol Resort & Country Club

CARIBBEAN


http://www.theprairieclub.com

RESORTREPORT

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 33

If you haven’t been to Innisbrook

Resort and Golf Club, located north

of Tampa, recently, it might be time

to go back as new owners

Salamander Hospitality have spent

almost $30 million in an effort to return

it to its past glory.

The fruits of the work were evi-

dent on a recent visit to attend the

International Network of Golf

spring conference. The resort now

has an expanded Osprey

Clubhouse, serving as the guest

registration center with a pro shop

for the North and South Courses

plus a sports bar and restaurant.

There are three other specialty

restaurants, including the Packard

Steakhouse at the Copperhead club-

house. There is a separate clubhouse

for the Island Course, too. Other

amenities include six swimming

pools, a fitness facility, a tennis cen-

ter with 11 courts and a new

20,000 square-foot Indaba Spa with

12 treatment rooms. Three meetings

areas with 65,000 square-foot of

space are great for conventions like

the one I attended.

The 609 guest accommodations

range from deluxe rooms to one and

two bedroom and executive suites in

28 lodges, named after other famous

golf courses, spread out to provide

tranquil settings. More renovations are

planned for the accommodations, too.

Missing are elevators, making the bell-

men’s tasks a little harder.

If you do not arrive in a car, don’t

worry. Innisbrook has a very efficient

shuttle service that was Johnny-on-the-

spot every time I called since my room

was a long ways from the meetings

and the two courses I played.

The main attraction remains golf

with 72 holes, featuring rolling terrain

different from other Florida courses.

By James McAFEE TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA

Innisbrook Resortand Golf Club72 Holes Of Perfect Play


RESORTREPORTRESORTREPORTThe Copperhead Course, where the PGA Tour players

play in March at the Transitions Championship is the fea-

tured course. It’s long even for the pros at 7,340 yards,

but it’s also a thinking man’s course with rolling terrain

and tall pines framing the fairways that are more like

North Carolina than Florida.

Most golfers shouldn’t even attempt to go back to the

tips, sporting a 76.8 course rating and a slope of 144.

The green tees at 6,725 yards with 73.7 and 136 num-

bers are enough for the lower handicappers, but I would

enjoy it more from the whites at 6,180 and 130. It’s still

a little too long for women at 5,605 from the reds with

73.6 and 130 numbers.

The Island Course, the first to be built back in 1970,

may be more difficult with tighter fairways bordered by

moss-draped trees and plenty of water hazards, especial-

ly after a $2 million facelift that stretched it 350 yards to

7,310 with a rating of -76.4 and slope of 143. The

greens were all rebuilt and lowered and replaced with

TifEagle grass, just like Copperhead, but approach shots

definitely need to be kept under the holes for the most part

on the undulating putting surfaces.

Playing it at 6,816 yards with 73.9 and 141 numbers,

I found it difficult to get home on many of the longer par

4s. My advice is to move up to the whites at 6,280 with

70.9 and 135 numbers if you don’t drive the ball more

than 250 yards. It’s too long for most women at 5,515

with 77.1 and 144 numbers.

While I did not get to play the other two courses,

opened in 1971 as the Sandpiper, it seems obvious they

are more player friendly based on the lengths, course rat-

ings and slopes. Who doesn’t like making more pars and

a birdie every once in a while? With water hazards, both

can be challenging.

TAMPA BAY, FLORIDAThe North, which also under went

some renovations to add length, will

remind you of the Copperhead—

nine holes were part of

Copperhead’s 27 holes—and so it

has some of the same characteristics,

but shorter. There’s one stretch of six

straight holes with water. It plays to

par 70, measuring 6,325, 6,070,

5,580 and 4,955 from the four tees.

The South starts out and ends like

the others, but there is a stretch in the

middle (5-13) where it opens up and is

largely devoid of trees. Higher handi-

cappers will enjoy it more as it plays to

par 71, measuring 6,620, 6,340,

5,900 and 4,975 from the four tees.

As an extra attraction during the

summer when more families come call-

ing, the resort sets up the Fox Squirrel

walking course after 4 p.m. It measures

only 1,236 yards on holes 1-4 and 14-

18 of the South or the back nine on the

North when the South is closed.

Larry Packard, 98, designed all

the four courses, and still lives at

Innisbrook. His trademark double

doglegs are evident at Innisbrook just

as they were elsewhere.

While some more work, especially

on the greens, is needed, Innisbrook

does appear to be making an effort to

move up a notch or two among

America’s premier golf resorts.www.golfvacationsmag.com GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 35


The burgeoning golf clothing industry is going to get evenmore competitive as FootJoy, which has held a dominateposition in the sales of golf shoes and gloves for many years,

is getting ready to make a full assault on the full-line apparel marketwith the introduction of a complete range of men’s golf apparel com-prised of performance fabrics to complement its existing line ofadvanced outerwear that has also been a leader in the market.

The new line will begin with a core range of essential perform-ance offerings that will be in-stock from season to season. Thisassortment will be supplemented by multiple color story collectionsfor the fall and spring that feature contemporary colors and patternsin a variety of styles and performance fabrics. The design focus willbe on one sport – golf, which is FootJoy’s sole passion.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to move into an adjacentbusiness and believe the timing is right,” said Jim Connor,

President ofFootJoy. “We’vetalked to golfersand our tradepartners, whoenthusiasticallysupport theplans and offer-ings. This repre-sents an impor-tant step forwardin FootJoy’s mis-sion to enhanceenjoyment of thegame for golferseverywhere.”

FootJoy firstentered the golfouterwear cate-gory in 1997 andlast year intro-

duced the layering system that was developed to meet the specificneeds of golfers who demand comfortable performance apparel thatregulates body temperature and adapts to changing weather condi-tions. Comprised of garments designed for wet, windy, cold andwarm conditions, the system allows players to “Layer Up”, consistentwith FootJoy’s mantra: Make Every Day Playable.

A variety of fabrics and colors highlight FooJoy’s new foray intoa full line of attire that is designed for comfort and protection on thecourse and for style off the course as well.

For the cooler fall conditions, the FJ Performance Sweater is astylish pullover made of luxurious Merino wool over a waterproofliner that makes this garment almost impervious from wind andcold, in addition to being water resistant. Designed for easy on/off,this golf sweater allows easy range of motion during the golf swingand sports a nice full cut in nine available colors.

For a little warmer conditions, or as an option under thePerformance Sweater, the ProDry Shirt features an easy care fabricthat avoids wrinkling and shrinkage along with double stitchedseams for added durability and reinforced construction with its lock-stitched hem. The ProDry stretch fabric has a luxurious and coolfeel, while the anti-microbial finish inhibits odor buildup when

ambient moisture is pres-ent. The extra long backand full fit in this line aretypical of the popularFootJoy styling.

Going back to its roots,FootJoy is also celebratingthe 30-year anniversary ofthe its StaSof golf glove linewith a new and improvedversion of what has beenthe company’s flagshipproduct since 1981 and isranked as the industryleader in that category.

Just as the golf swing has evolved into an athletic power move inwhich the hands lead the club shaft into an aggressive, downward,ball-compressing moment of impact, the new StaSof has evolved tocomplement that swing by improved feel and grip performance.

Launching the ninth generation of exclusive Pittards® LeatherTechnology with Taction 2™ Advanced Performance Leather®, thenew StaSof has a softer feel and improved grip performance in all-climate play. Moreover, the new Taction2 ™ APL leather has twicethe gripping power in humid, hot conditions.

The leather cuff of the new StaSof has been extended 1/4" to fitfurther up the wrist for improved fit and comfort. In addition, a new,proprietary ComforTab™ closure comfortably adjusts for a securefit and feel. PowerNet™ mesh inserts have been added across theknuckles to enhance flexibility and breathability.

For more information: www.footjoy.com

With the weather beginning to turn colder as the fall seasontakes over from the summer heat, golf is still on in mostparts of the country, but with an eye towards comfort as

the elements start to take their toll.Protection from the weather becomes paramount with rain, wind

and cold playing into the equation as much as birdies and bogeys.Sunice®, the Canadian company that is the official outerwear of the

PGA Tour, has added some new colors and styles for its fashion/ techni-cal outerwear line that will not disappoint for the upcoming fall and win-ter season of 2112. An updated Ultimate V4 Gore-Tex rain and windjacket in its Hurricane Collection represents the crème de la crèmewith a lifetime waterproof guarantee in Gore-Tex Performance Shell.

Ultra quiet with a soft-hand feel and the Pro-trim™ waist cinch-ing system, this jacket also sports a full top back stretch panel for

SWEETSTUFF

www.golfvacationsmag.com GOL F VA C AT IO N S • OC TOB E R 2011 37

freedom of movement,Lycra action cuffs,adjustable bungee at thehem and a patented Vcollar with neoprenefinish. Another nicetouch is the in-pocketball cleaner and theSunice® lock-down zip-per pullers. The X-Staticlining also provides thetechnical benefits ofactual silver fiberswoven within the lining.

A completely newdesign is on tap for thisline for 2012 with anarray of new colors,including the brightlycolored blue regattawith charcoal and whitedetailing, classic blackand shadow and real redand black. A bright oliveand charcoal color com-bination is also a veryimportant new additionto the Sunice men’s out-erwear line-up. Theseare jackets that areoffered in both a bothmen’s and women’s line,and Sunice® has taken

some cues from the women to design the official outerwear of theUnited States Solheim Cup Team that recently competed in Ireland.

A few other notable mentions from their newest collectioninclude a completely new fabric story for the Typhoon, three-yearwaterproof guarantee category. Zephal was introduced in 2011 as asuper lightweight waterproof fabric but has been upgraded for 2012with the addition of full stretch. Embossed prints for men add anadditional fashion statement along with vibrant colors for womenwith Bright White, French Blue, Petonia and Diva. Fun prints,color combinations, printed waterproof zippers and finishing detailsthat act as jewellery to the garment add the sophisticated edge andfemininity to the women’s collection.

Sunice®, founded in 1976 in Alberta, Canada as a skiwearbrand, successfully transcended its technical outerwear capabilitiesinto the golf market in the early 1990s as the golf industry gravitat-ed towards designing sport-specific garments that truly helpedenhance the game. Owned and run by Montreal, Canada-basedFletcher Leisure Group Inc., a company with 42 years of golf indus-

try experience-- Sunice® golf rainwear is worn by many PGA andLPGA Tour players around the world.

For more information on the new outerwear offerings fromSunice®: www.sunice.com

One of the fastest-growing brands of sunglasses across manysports has made recent in-roads into the golf accessory cat-egory with some spirited new models and eye-catching

fashion statements.Tifosi Optics, which now offers dozens of sport sunglasses in 38

countries and more than 3,000 U.S. locations in less than a decadein business, has loaded its current lineup of eyewear with not onlyprotection, but a sense of fashion as well.

“We set out to engineer top quality sports sunglasses that areloaded with technical features, aggressively priced and backed witha no-hassle lifetime warranty,” says co-founder Elizabeth Earley. “Butthe real success is due to our growing network of Tifosi retailers whobelieve in the brand enough to recommend it to their customers.”

One of its latest models—Mast—features three Interchangeablelenses made of decentered shatterproof polycarbonate to virtuallyeliminate distortion, give sharp peripheral vision, and offer 100%protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays, bugs, rocks, or whatevercomes your way. Lens installation/removal is fast and easy and allowsfor three different shade lenses in one sunglass. These Polarizedlenses block light reflecting off the water (or any horizontal surface)to reduce glare and eye fatigue.

The Golf/Tennis™ (GT) lens is color neutral, great for full sun,and high-contrast so you can quickly spot your ball in flight. TheExtreme Contrast™ (EC) lens filters blue light and was designed

specifically as a green-reader. Its unique properties help you pick upsubtle breaks on the green as you plan your next putt. AC Red™ isa great contrast lens for overcast conditions.

The frame is made of Grilamid TR-90, a homopolyamide nyloncharacterized by an extremely high alternative bending strength, lowdensity, and high resistance to chemical and UV damage. TheHydrophilic rubber ear and nose pieces are designed to increasegrip when in contact with sweat for a no-slip fit, while the adjustabletemples allow for a customizable fit and increased wearing comfort.

For more information visit www.tifosioptics.com

by Terry Ross

SWEETSTUFF


When TaylorMade Golf introduced its unique white-headed driver franchise earlier this year with theadjustable R11, the company probably never imag-

ined that within the first eight months that it would be celebrat-ing its one millionth sale.

That milestone has come and gone and coat-tailing on theheels of this wildly successful club are the white R11 FairwayWoods and Rescue Hybrids that have proven popular both in the

p r o f e s s i o n a land recreation-al ranks as acompanion tothe driver.

The con-trast betweenthe white crownand black club-face makes iteasier to alignthe R11 accu-rately ataddress, just asit does in thedriver, and thematte white fin-ish eliminateshot spots andglare to pro-mote improvedfocus. Thewhite head alsolooks larger topromote moreconfidence anda faster, freeswing with alighter feel.

The R11f a i r w a yimproves uponthe adjustabilityestablished inthe R9 version

by combining Flight Control Technology (FCT) with AdjustableSole Plate (ASP) Technology in a high-performance steel head.With up to 60 yards of side-to-side trajectory change, a newaerodynamic clubhead also allows for greater swing speed.

One significant improvement over the previous R9 fairwaywood is the 35% smaller sole area of the R11 that is designed tomake contact with the turf, which helps eliminate resistance at

impact and allows greater energy and longer shots. A deeperface and a front Center of Gravity provides a more penetratingball flight and longer distance, while the Adjustable Sole Plateallows you to open or close the face angle at setup by either twodegrees open or closed. The FCT allows you to adjust thelaunch angle by increasing or decreasing the R11’s loft by onedegree higher or lower with eight different adjustments. It alsoallows you to adjust the club’s lie angle from standard to up totwo degrees upright to customize it even further.

The R11 fairways come in five different lofts ranging from 14to 22 degrees and feature a Fujikura Blur shaft as stock, whilethe Tour Preferred version of the club has several shaft options,including the new Aldila ® Rip ® shaft that has proven popularon the professional tours.

The Rescue 11 incorporates steel, pull-face construction toallow for a thin, fast clubface that promotes fast ball speed andminimum weight. The Flight Control Technology (FCT) allowsyou to adjust the loft and it also has the white crown and blackclubface. Available lofts range from 16 to 23.5 degrees.

This hybrid does not have the adjustable sole, but with theFCT adjustment the face angle can be altered by 4 degrees (+/-2 degrees left and right); and you can adjust the loft by 2 degrees(+/- 1 degree higher or lower); adjust the lie 2 degrees (+/- 1degree more upright or flat). Thus you are able to alter the spinrate by 1,000 RPM (+/- 500 RPM higher or lower spin rate).

The Aldila ® Rip ® 65 HB shaft comes standard on the R11Rescue, while the TP version offers various custom options.

For more information: www.taylormadegolf.com

GOLFGEAR

by TERRY ROSS

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Golf Vacations Magazine October 2011

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Transcript of Golf Vacations Magazine October 2011