april 2014 south texas golf

[Southtexas Golf #1] 1

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September 2013Free edition

PROFILE: DR. ARMANDO MONCADA * PINEHURST NO. 2HARLINGEN’S MORGAN MCLAUGHERTY * GOLF GRUB: HCC

FREE!TAKE ONE

LORENA OCHOACOMING TOCIMARRON

RAUL GARZA:DRIVING

CHANGES ATTIERRA DEL SOL

2 [Southtexas Golf #1]

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20 [Southtexas Golf #1] [Southtexas Golf #1] 21

FEATURE NAME ››COVER STORY - RAUL GARZA, TIERRA DEL SOL

Tierra del Sol700 E. Hall AcresPharr, Texas(956) 702-2320www.phargolf.comPar-72

Yardage:Blue tees: 6,827White tees: 6,266Gold tees: 5,820Red tees: 5,252

Raul Garza talks to offi-cials, guests, local resi-dents and other supporters at the grand re-opening of Tierra del Sol in Pharr.The City of Pharr invested $1 million to give the course a major facelift.

NOT DONE YETCity of Pharr, Garza continue to work on the newly re-opened (and improved) Tierra del Sol

BY HENRY MILLER

For Raul Garza, it's a perfect job.It's not an easy job. In fact, it could be considered multiple jobs

with plenty of challenges. But as director of golf at Tierra del Sol golf course, it's a job he

loves as much as a kid in a candy store. If you ask him why, his answer is twofold.

“I love helping people, the golfer and the people are my favorite part of this,” he''ll say before you can finish asking the question. “And I love my city. This is where I grew up. This is my course. I'm so fortunate of have a city with leaders who believe in me and support us here. I'm just grateful.”

The City of Pharr has invested more than once in Tierra del Sol, most recently spending $1 million giving it a brand new look. From tee to green it's not the same golf course it once was.

“But we're not finished,” Garza said. “This isn't a one-and-done deal. There's a lot more I want to do and the city wants to do. This is about our customers, the people. We want them to come out here and have the best possible experience. That starts from customer service at the front door to an end-of-the-night banquet in our banquet room if need be.”

More plans are in the way to work on the weeds so they have to maintain them instead of battle them. There's also the vision

of changing the entrance and possibly expanding the park-ing lot so when golfers first enter the course, they see others putting, chipping are at the driving range and they take in a aesthetic look at the course and the remodeled clubhouse.

Garza is a Pharr native. Tierra del Sol is his home course. He started golf later in life but remembers bringing his two sons on the course at very early ages – 3 and 1 ½. He even changed diapers on the course.

“Everything was disposed of properly,” Garza joked. “This city and this course has been my life.”

Back then he would've laughed if you told him he'd be di-recting the show at the course.

“No way,” said Garza, who graduated from Pan American University with a degree in Accounting and worked with the Pharr EDC as well as the Pharr Events Center before taking over the 18-hole municipal course.

“I worked for now City Manager Fred Sandoval years ago and we've known each all our lives,” Garza said. “He knows how I work and he and the city has trusted me with this pro-ject.”

Don't be fooled, though. Running a golf course is more than just about the “golf.” With employees (human resources), a pro shop (retail), a restaurant (food & beverage), golfers and tour-naments (actual golf) and landscaping there's a lot of juggling involved. Garza said the toughest part has been learning the landscaping, but with the help of Golf Course Superintendent Gabe Cabrera, Garza said he'd learned a lot.

“We have more work to do and I need to be able to use all the resources that are available and to do that I have to listen and learn constantly,” Garza said. “But you couldn't ask for anything better than the people around me and the leadership of this city. They are forward thinking.”

City Commissioner Adan Farias is quick to point out that quality of life is an ongoing major issue. The Last year the city also opened an aquatic park, with water slides, a lazy river and an area for toddlers.

“Quality of life issues are one of the most important things a city can be involved with,” said Farias, who is also on the Tierra del Sol advisory board. “We believe that having quality places to do family thing are critical to a city. We continue to work on this golf course and we will continue to address and improve quality of life here.”

The city is also looking at attracting some type of major golf event to Tierra del Sol and is addressing other improvements, such as tennis.

Garza said the response from golfers has been more than

what he anticipated and has been humbled by it. As he drives around the course, checking everything from fairways to greens, water to weeds golfers regularly stop him to share a word and they don't hold back when it comes to the course.

“We have a large and very involved and wonderful Winter Texan base,” Garza said. “When they came back and came to play they were very excited. We even had some of our biggest critics tell us how much they enjoyed the course – and that says a lot.

“We're here for the people. That's my favorite part of this job. I love helping people and I listen.”

Unfortunately, the one thing he doesn't do as much now that he runs a golf course is... golf.

“I don't get out as much as I used to,” Garza said. “But it's great to be able to walk out of my office and know that the golf course is right there. I can't stress enough how much I enjoy working here, with the people here and with the lead-ership at the city.”

Garza and Golf Course Superintendant Gabe Cabrera look over one of the new greens as it’s being water at Tierra del Sol in Pharr.


FEATURE NAME

COURSE NAME: Meadow Creek Golf Club

ADDRESS: 1300 Circle DriveMission, Texas 78592

PHONE: Pro Shop (956) 350-4000; Office (956) 581-6262

EMAIL: [email protected]

DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION: Otis Hesteness

ANNUAL TOURNAMENTS: 22 Annual Tournaments

PAR: 70

YARDAGE: Blue - 6,059White – 5,488 Red - 4,747

FAIRWAY GRASS: Bermuda

GREENS: Bermuda

ABOUT THE COURSE: Lots of water on the back 9. No. 18 as tough a finishing hole around from the blues. Course is a good test for any level of golfer.

OTHER INFORMATION: Driving Range, Pro Shop, Pro Shop Grill and the 19th Hole is Open Daily

Meadow Creek is rebuilding its reputation as a challenging course

MEADOW CREEKGOLF CLUB

GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY

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ON THE RISE

SOARING CARDINAL MEADOW CREEK

Raul Garza is a blessed man - just ask him. He is working on his home golf course in his home city. He has the support of his city and is focused on the continued improvement at Tierra del Sol.

8A SPECIAL SPORT:Golf might be a perfect sport - for all ages, for all levels, for all everything.

Harlingen High School’s Morgan McLaugherty just keeps getting better day by day.

Mission Golf Course poses challenges for all level of golfers.

10COUGAR ON THE PROWL:U of H and former Harlingen South star Roman Robledo mak-ing news in a great way.

12WHAT’S HAPPENING: See what golf events are happening in the Valley and beyond.

24SAY IT IN A PHOTO:Check out some of the tournaments we visited recently.

44HAPPY MOTHERS DAY: Mothers Day is always a special day. Make this one even more special.

What’s Inside

18 30 46 50BIG NAME:Former No. 1 Lor-ena Ochoa coming to the RGV.

FOOD & DRINKWhat’s Spring taste like?

GOLF GRUB:Grubbers get treated like royalty at HCC.

TRAVEL: You can play Pinehurst No. 2.


FEATURE NAMELORENA OCHOA

Lorena Ochoa’s time on the LPGA Tour wasn’t one of the longer timelines when compared to many of the top golfers in the world.

But her time clearly was one of the most – if not the most – dominant times in the history of the LPGA Tour. Ochoa, born in Guadalajara, Mexico, was ranked the No. 1 Player in the World for more than three years, was the LPGA Player of the Year for four straights years, won 27 LPGA events... the list goes on and on.

When Ochoa retired in 2010 at the age of 28, she was still the top-ranked player in the world.

And now she’s coming to Cimarron Country Club for the Copa Maxwell 2014, sponsored by Maxwell Magazine.“We are excited to welcome Lorena to the RGV,” said Guillermo Cruz, Director of the event. “We have no doubt that this event will be remembered.

The event will be held Friday, May 23 and Saturday, May 24. A portion of the pro-ceeds will donated to the Angels of Love and Valley Migrant Student Scholarship Foundations.

The two-day event includes a conference on Friday with Ochoa entitled “Una Actitud Ante La Vida, Mi Vision.” It focuses on companies and is based on the life experi-ence that led Ochoa to be one of the most successful sports figures in the world. That is followed up with a private dinner with Ochoa at 8 p.m. Friday exclusively for players and sponsors.

Saturday’s highlights include a Golf

Clinic with Ochoa. This will be an inte-grated even with golf and activities that include setting objectives, team building and execution shooting.

The big highlight is the Tournament, which begins at 10 a.m. Saturday. The tournament will be a three-player format with only one single digit handicap player per team. A 3-person team is $2,250.

There will be prizes for the first three places as well as hole-in-one and closest to the pin prizes.

For more information call (956) 313-1709.All tournament entry fees include tick-

ets to the Ochoa Conference and Clinic, the

tournament, breakfast, lunch and bever-ages tournanent day, an official tourna-ment cap, duffle bag and golf balls and the opportunity to win a 2014 Maserati for a hole in one.

“Our vision in Maxwell Cup 2014, is to promote sports in children, youth and adults as well as to educate and entertain our community with values focused on an active life style,” Cruz said. “At the same time we want to contribute to society by allocating part of the revenue generated by the tournament to non profit organiza-tions, this year Angels of Love foundation & VMSS will be benefited.”

FORMER WORLD NO. 1COMING TO CIMARRON

HIGHLIGHTS/AWARDSFOR LORENA OCHOA

2002Futures Tour Rookie of the YearFutures Tour Player of the Year

2003LPGA Rookie of the Year

2006Mexico National Sports AwardAP Female Athlete of the YearMexico Athlete of the YearLPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money Winner

LPGA Vare TrophyGolf Writers Assoc. of AmericaFemale Player of the Year

2007LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money WinnerLPGA Vare TrophyWomen’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the YearMexico National Sports AwardGolf Writers Assoc of AmericaFemale Player of the YearAP Female Athlete of the YearEFE Sportswoman of the YearHeather Farr Player Award

2008Best International Athlete ESPY LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money WinnerLPGA Vare TrophyGolf Writers Association of AmericaFemale Player of the Year

2009LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Vare Trophy

2011Bob Jones Award


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FEATURE NAMELEISURE - FOOD & DRINK

Tastes of Spring are in The Patio airEach season has its own colors,

scents and tastes.So, what does Spring taste like?Honey, berries, lime and coconut.

Just the names probably send you on a visual exotic adventure. But you don't have to go far – just to The Patio on Guerra at

Winter has its own tastes, that of cin-namon, tea, wood and spices but now we enjoy being in the middle of Spring. As a bartender here at The Patio on Guerra I try not to set the rules but rather improve upon the guidelines for our guests.

Our approach to “perfect pairings” combines the best seasonal selections with interesting new beer, wine and spirits for a dining experience that will be as tantalizing as it is memorable. As a bartender, I dance to the beat of your drum and prepare our signature, premium cocktails feature seasonal selections made just for you. Extra lime, not too tart, extra dry, no citrus, however YOU like your drink…

That being said our drinks are always conceived from a greater abstract idea and we start chipping down from there, deconstructing that idea until we come to a common denominator and build a drink from there. The best tasting drinks – and food for that matter – are made from simple, delicious ingredients.

This Spring, we are taking a really fun light-hearted approach to our cocktail menu. As a bartender, there's nothing better than coming up with mixtures that tantalize your taste buds. Check out some of the delicious mixtures that we are featuring.

This season we will be mixing straw-berries, cilantro and dragon fruit rum to create a Rio Grande Valley version of a mojito. We also are featuring a Mexi-can chocolate, coconut and caramel bourbon iced coffee that’s a perfect after dinner drink. We're also show-casing a mixed berry, limoncello and honey syrup martini. Of course, there are many others that we are featuring to complement our existing lineup of

award-winning drinks.All the cocktails in our menu are craft

cocktails. We take as much pride in our jack and cokes as we do in our old fash-ioned. There is no cocktail more impor-tant than yours. Whatever it may be, let us take care of you. Join us at The Patio on Guerra and enjoy McAllen’s live music at its best! Try a cocktail or two from our exceptional bar menu while listening to the best live entertainment.

Patio on Guerra features the best in South Texas with delicious savory dishes, award-winning wines, exotic cocktails, and the best in live entertain-ment. Whether you are looking for a great place to wind down after a hard working day or for a business meeting, an anniversary, a proposal, or “just be-cause” come enjoy the beautiful colors, scents and flavors of Spring.

The Patio on Guerra is located at 116 S 17th St, McAllen, TX 78501. Call them for reservations at (956) 661-9100 or visit them at www.patioonguerra.com.


FEATURE NAMELEISURE - TRAVEL

Pinehurst No. 2, the centerpiece of Pinehurst Resort, remains one of the world’s most celebrated golf courses. It has served as the site of more single golf championships than any course in America and, in 2014, will make history again, becoming the first to serve as host to the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Champion-ships in consecutive weeks.

Opened in 1907, No. 2 was de-signed by Donald Ross, who called it “the fairest test of championship golf I have ever designed.”

Ross was associated with the course for nearly a half-century, improving the course continually until his death in 1948.

No. 2 is best known for its crowned, undulating greens, which are some of the most complex and widely hailed in the world. In March 2011, No. 2 reopened following a yearlong, $2.5 million restoration by the design firm of Coore & Crenshaw that restored the course’s natural and historic character.

More history makingat Pinehurst No. 2

Championships on Pinehurst No. 2

U.S. Open Championship1999, 2005, 2014Ryder Cup Matches1951PGA Championship1936U.S. Women’s Open Championship2014U.S. Men’s Amateur Championship1962, 2008THE TOUR Championship1991, 1992U.S. Senior Open Championship1994Maxfli PGA Junior Championship1993USGA Women’s Amateur1989Independent Insurance Youth Classic (Big I)1987, 1992Men’s & Women’s World Amateur Team

Championship1980North & South Junior Tournament(since 1979)World Golf Hall of Fame Classic1973-1982PGA Club Professional Championship1971-74, 1988Western Golf Association Amateur Cham-pionship1966Southern Golf Association Amateur Championship1965, 1977North & South Senior Women’s Amateur(since 1958)North & South Senior Men’s Amateur(since 1952)Donald Ross Memorial Junior(since 1948)North & South Women’s Amateur(since 1903North & South Open Championship1902-1951North & South Men’s Amateur(since 1901)

PLAY PINEHURSTPinehurst Resort, the site of the U.S. Open and

U.S. Women’s Open Championships in June, has unveiled three unique opportunities to experi-ence its championship summer - before, during and after the big events.

Championship Preview PackageTake an advance look at the course that will

decide two national champions in June. Available June 1-8 beginning at $199 per person, the package includes accommodations, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet and one round of golf on Pinehurst No. 6, 7 or 8.

U.S. Women’s Open Golf PackageStay a short walk from the 18th green and

receive a Trophy Club ticket to the first U.S. Women’s Open to be conducted on Pinehurst No. 2. Available June 16-22 beginning at $341 per person, the package includes resort accommoda-tions, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet, one round of golf on No. 6, 7 or 8 and a ticket that offers Trophy Club access.

Champions Challenge PackageWalk in the footsteps of Pinehurst’s newest

champions and experience the same champion-ship conditions that will have tested golf’s best men and women. Available June 26-29 following the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Champion-ships, the Champions Challenge starts at $2,014 per person and features three nights and four rounds of golf, including one on No. 2 with a cad-die, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet, dinner and a commemorative U.S. Open gift.

Guests can make reservations by calling 800-487-4653. For more information, including pho-tos and video, visit pinehurstmedia.com. Connect with Pinehurst Resort on Facebook and Twitter.

14 [Southtexas Golf #1] [Southtexas Golf #1] 15

FEATURE NAME ››

THE MORGAN FILES

NAME: Morgan Jean McClaughertyAGE: 17SCHOOL: Harlingen High SchoolGRADE: 11th gradeDAD: Glen McClaughertyHOME COURSE: Treasure Hills Golf ClubBEST ROUND: 67 (-5) Fort Brown Golf CourseFAVORITE COURSE: The Maxx Golf Club in Laredo, Texas

FAVORITE PROS: Tigers Woods, Bubba Wat-son, Jordan Spieth FAVORITE FOOD: Grilled Chicken Caesar SaladHIGH SCHOOL COACH: Chris MilliganHOBBIES: Play golf, practice, work outNOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THIS: “in the last couple years I realized my calling in life, is to play golf, is to change the world of golf forever

MORGAN MCLAUGHERTYStronger, Straighter...Better

Watch out world. This is the new Morgan McLaugherty. The girl who may have been a little content with hovering around 70 is no longer around. The Harlingen Lady Cardinal who is aiming for perfection – and has a goal of making the LPGA one day – is now realizing that the sky is the limit.

“Morgan is the only one I know who gets up at 5:30 in the morning and is at the golf course by 6:30, practicing for an hour,” said the

Palms at Mid-Valley Golf Pro Joe Powell, who also works closely with Morgan and her swing. “She goes home and then she goes to school then after school she's back out on the course.

“I don't know any other high school player that's doing that. That's why she's surpassing these others.”

Morgan started playing at the age of 8, hitting the golf course with her dad Glen on a regular basis. She “just played” until she was 10 and then started competing in

events like the South Texas PGA or events like the Texas, Oklahoma Championship.

She quickly learned that playing outside the Valley was a whole different ballgame.

“You need more height when you get out of here,” said Morgan, a junior at Harlingen High School. “When you leave here there's a lot more undulation and more bunkers and you have to be able to hit it high and stop it more.”

It's been a subtle, bot roller-coaster ride for The Lady Cardinal, who first noticed her game climbing to a new level when she was in junior high school while working with the school's coach daily. When he left the school, Morgan said her game started to get away again. In between her sophomore and junior years, however, if came back with the help of both Powell and Joe Cardenas at Treasure Hills Golf Course. .

This year, however, it has soared. McLaugherty has watched her scoring average drop from 78 to 71. This season, she broke her person best three times, the most recent a 67.

One time Morgan and Powell played a round. Powell finished with a 68. Even though Morgan shot a 72, Powell told her she could've been him that day.

“The sky is the limit for her and she could make it to the Tour if she keeps it you. She shot a 67 andit came in a tourna-ment setting.

“A lot of it is in between the ears and she's mentally tough. She would try to steer into the clubhouse with blowing up. That last time we played she got tight when she was 2- or 3-under. I told her when you get there start shooting at the pins more. She could be shooting in the mid-60s quite

Morgan McLaugherty walked off the No. 18 green at Fort Brown Golf Course in Brownsville after fir-ing off a personal best 5-under 67 during the first

day of the Texas high school district tournament earlier this month.

“I didn't make a birdie putt longer than 8-feet,” McLaugh-erty said. “Imagine if I had been putting well.”

Morgan says her improved short game has made a dif-ference in her scoring his year.

STORY BY HENRY MILLERPHOTOS BY JOEY DOWDEN

TABLE OF CONTENTS


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Feature nameFROM THE PUBLISHER

One of my greatest joys about 25 years in the media has been interviewing so many people.

Often times someone will say some-thing to me that makes me reflect on my life -- good and bad times both.

Recently while interviewing Harlingen High School’s Morgan McLaugherty she mentioned something about how she loves golf because it’s an individual sport. She doesn’t need to play against or with anybody because she can always compete against herself.

I love the sport for the same reason. Then I thought to myself “wow, I love the sport for so many more reasons too.”

I love to compete. When you think about it, every single swing is a different competition as you aim for longer distanc-es, more accuracy, hitting the green.... whatever your goal is right then and there.

I love playing it with others. Sharing times with friends - whether it’s in an official competitive setting or just to see who’s buying drinks at the end of the round.

I love playing it by myself. There’s something about being on the course alone. There’s nothing like being able to put all your worries of the day to the side and just be able to reflect and have a peaceful round of golf. (Other than having to wait on the slow group in front of you).

I have a couple friends who always seem to have their best rounds when they play alone... wonder how that happens.

I love being able to take my daughter to the course. There’s no greater joy on the golf course for me than watching her take a swing that could chop a small tree down. She may not always hit the ball clearly but somehow her swing is still picture perfect. It’s way better than mine and I’ve been playing for 20 years.

I especially love just being able to spend the time with her there. She was first exposed to the sport at Palm View Golf Course with her plastic club at age 5. When-she’s 85 she’ll still be able to play, God willing. I love that about the sport.

All in all, it might just be a perfect pasttime, a perfect sport.Yeah, that’s why I love the sport. In fact, I think I may go play right now.

Henry Miller - [email protected](956) 607-9210

Joey Dowden - Advertising [email protected](956) 607-0853

David DeLeonHenry MillerDesigners

Tiki Tillman PhotographyPhotographer

Volume 2, Isssue 2. April 2014. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form with-out the prior written consent of the publisher. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are strictly those of the writers, photographers and contributors, and are not necessarily those of South Texas Golf or its publisher. Every effort has been taken to ensure the correctness and accu-racy in the material published in this magazine. South Texas Golf reserves the right to edit, rewrite and refuse editorial materials and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors, omissions or consequence arising from it. South Texas Golf shall be held harmless and indemnified against any third-party claims. Advertisements appearing in South Texas Golf present only the viewpoint of the advertisers. South Texas Golf is printed in the U.S.A. All correspondence to the publication be-come the property of South Texas Golf Magazine.South Texas Golf Magazine is published by H&J Publications. Copyright 2013. To advertise in South Texas Golf call (956) 607-0853 or email [email protected]


››

September 2013Free edition

PROFILE: DR. ARMANDO MONCADA * PINEHURST NO. 2HARLINGEN’S MORGAN MCLAUGHERTY * GOLF GRUB: HCC

FREE!TAKE ONE

LORENA OCHOACOMING TOCIMARRON

RAUL GARZA:DRIVING

CHANGES ATTIERRA DEL SOL

On the cover: Raul Garza couldn’t be any happier than he is now, working with the City of Pharr to improve Tierra del Sol by leaps and bounds. Photo by: Henry Miller

Staff

GOLFCOULD IT BE THE PERFECT SPORT?

Henry Miller is Publisher of South Texas Golf. He has more than 25 years of publishing experience, has written sports for more than 150 newspapers, covered the Olympics, NASCAR, Major League Baseball and other sports. He has been syndicated on radio in more than 70 markets and loves to golf.His 9-year-old daughter Camilla has a wicked left-handed swing and also enjoys track, volleyball, karate and fashion. They live in McAllen, Texas.

WHO HIT AN ACE?Gord Morrish scored a Hole-In-One

recently at Valley International Coun-try Club in Brownsville on the No. 5 hole using a 9-iron.

Send your photo and hole-in-one-information to [email protected] Gord!


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Our enduring commitment to our customers and our

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Feature nameFeATURe NAMeSHORT SHOTS

SHORT SHOTSA collection of tidbits brought to you by...

WIZARD’S WORDBuying used clubs

obviously can save you money…but there can be many headaches and sometimes a complete bust on a purchase if a few simple details are overlooked. When it comes time to purchase used golf clubs, there are primarily two areas you’re going to get them. You can either buy them at a golf shop or a retail outlet, or you can buy them online.

The benefit of go-ing to a retail store or a local golf shop to buy a set of used golf clubs is you see and touch them. You might even be able to hit a couple and you know exactly what you are purchasing. You can thoroughly inspect used club shafts for straight-ness or any kinks. Next determine if the shaft is the original equipment or a replacement shaft…any

sets with a club with an unmatched shaft replace-ment would not make a good set to purchase. Think about re-gripping immediately if you like the clubs as most used clubs have worn grips and you can get it done right on the spot.

If you are going to buy a set of used or even new clubs online be sure you are dealing with a repu-table company that you have confidence in buy-ing. Otherwise, you just don’t know exactly what

you are going to get…there are tons of counter-feits we see them more and more as online pur-chasing grows. Also, used clubs purchased online can have shaft changes and club lies that may have been adjusted and cannot be brought back to standard, a couple of issues that could lead to a useless club and an unhappy golfer.

…So, if you want to just simplify the search for re-ally good used clubs, stop by one of our two Golf Headquarters locations in McAllen or Brownsville and check out the “Con-signment Corner” display of gently used clubs that have been inspected by our pros.

Bill Hayter - Golf Head-quarters owner, has been helping RGV Golfers improve their game and their equipment for more than 37 years.

facebook.com/southtexasgolf

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?ROMAN ROBLEDO

Harlingen South graduate Roman Robledo has had a huge impact on the University of Houston golf team.

Robledo has twice beeen recognized as the American Athletic Conference Player of the Week and was named Golfweek’s National Player of the week in mid-March.

Recently, Robledo posted a score of 7-under-par 209 to win the Border Olympics individual title and lead the Cougars to their third straight team cham-pionship at the start of April. He posted three consecutive sub-par rounds - including a second-round 68 - for his fourth title in 2013-14 and the fifth title of his career.

It also was his fifth individual championship in his last nine events.

This season, Robledo leads the Cougars with a sparkling 70.86 scoring average and 15 rounds of par or better. He has posted eight sub-par scores in his last nine rounds and totaled 10 rounds of par or better dur-ing his last 11 rounds.

UH boasts 16 team national titles and eight individual na-tional champions, a list that includes PGA regulars Fred Couples, Steve elkington and John Mahaffey.ROBLEDO

SWINGING FOR STATEAs of presstime, the following teams and individuals had avanced to the Texas Regional Golf Tournament with the hopes of advancing to the state tournament in Austin, April 28-29:BOYS32-4ATeams: Mission Veterans A; edcouch-elsa. Individuals: Jorge Ibarra, Valley View; Thomas Zomorrano, Donna North30-5ATeams: Shary A; edinburg Vela A. Individu-

als: Phillip Garza, edinburg North; Amancio Acosta, edinburg31-5ATeams: Weslaco east, McAllen Memorial. Individuals: Alan Alanis, McAllen High, Francesco Guerra, San Benito32-5ATeams: Harlingen A, Brownsville Veterans A. Individuals: Adrian Saenz, Brownsville Porter; Cesar elizando, Brownsville HannaGIRLS32-4ATeams: edcouch-elsa, Roma. Individuals: Leah Lerma, Mission; Kimberly Calderon,

Mission Veterans

30-5ATeams: Sharyland A, edinburg Vela. Indi-viduals: Carina Hernandez, Sharyland B; Ariel Chavana, edinburg Vela (ind)

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AMERICA’S TOP BRANDS

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Visit Our Large Showrooms In:McAllen n Corpus Christi n San Antonio

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Feature nameSCHEDULES

PGA SCHEDULEApril 17-20 RBC Heritage CBS, ESPNApril 24-27 Zurich Classic CBS, ESPNMay 1-4 Wells Fargo Champ. CBS, DirTVMay 8-11 The Players Champ. GOLF/NBCMay 15-18 Byron Nelson Champ. CBS/GOLFMay 22-25 Crowne Plaza Invitational CBS/GOLFMay 29-June 1 The Memorial Tourn CBS/DirTVJune 5-8 FedEx St. Jude Classic CBS/GOLFJUNE 12-15 U.S. Open (Pinehurst No. 2)CBS

LPGA SCHEDULEApril 16-19 LOTTE Championship, Kapolei, HawaiiApril 24-27 Swinging Skirts Classic, Daly City, Ca.May 1-4 North Texas LPGA Shootout, Irving, TexasMay 15-18 Kingsmill Champ., Williamsburg, Va.May 22-25 Airbus LPGA Classic, Mobile, Ala.May 30-June 1 ShopRite LPGA Classic, Galloway, N.J.June 5-8 Manulife Financial Classic, Waterloo, Ont.June 19-22 U.S. Women’s Open, Pinehurst No. 2

CHAMPIONS SCHEDULEApril 18-20 Greater Gwinnett Champ.p, Duluth, Ga.May 2-4 Insperity Invitational, The Woodlands, TxMay 15-18 Regions Tradition, Shoal, Creek, Ala.May 22-25 Sr. PGA Champ.,, Benton Harbor, MichMay 30-June 1 Principal Charity Classic, Des Moines, IAJune 2-8 Big Cedar Lodge Legends,, Ridgedale, Mo.June 20 Encompass Championship, Glenview, Il.

LEGENDS SCHEDULEMay 1-4 Walgreens Classic, Sun City West, Az.June 27-20 Judson Collegiate Pro-Am, Atlanta

FED-EX CUP STANDINGS1) Jimmy Walker 2,046 pts2) Bubba Watson 1,8403) Patrick Reed 1,3434) Duston Johnson 1,3345) Harris English 1,253

6) Jordan Spieth 1,1157) Chris Kirk 1,1098) Zach Johnson 1,0319) Matt Every 99410) Webb Simpson 971

RGV GOLF CALENDARALAMO COUNTRY CLUB 956-787-0907MAY 16-17 MeMORIAL DAY

BROWNSVILLE GOLF CENTER 956- 541-2582APRIL 26 CHIeF OF POLICe

CIMARRON COUNTRY CLUB 956-581-7408JUNe 6 AUDI QUATTRO CUP FORT BROWN GOLF CLUB 956-541-0394APRIL 27 FORT BROWN JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIA-TION

HARLINGEN COUNTRY CLUB 956-412-4100APRIL 25 BLUe SUNDAYMAY 9 HARLINGeN CHAMBeR OF COMMeRCe

LOS LAGOS GOLF CLUB 956-316-0444APRIL 26 PIGA 26 KOReAN CHURCH OF MCALLeN 26 SUNDOWNeRS (eVeRY TUeSDAY) MAY 3 ROBeRT MAHeR MONSIGNOR 23 AGC 24 RGV THUNDeR SOFTBALL 31 A.C. CUeLLAR JUNe 7 PIGA 21 DOUBLe POINTSCOMe VISIT THe ALL NeW LOS LAGOS LIGHTeD DRIVING RANGe MARTIN VALLEY RANCH 956-585-6330HAVe A BeAUTIFUL SUMMeR WINTeR TeXANS

McALLEN COUNTRY CLUB 956-686-0823APRIL 30-MAY 3 MeMBeR/GUeST MAY 5 HADASSAH

MEADOW CREEK 956-581-6267APRIL 26 TeXAS A&M AGGIeS MOMS MAY 3 NATIONAL HISPANIC INSTITUTe

MONTE CRISTO GOLF COUNTRY CLUB 956-221-3480APRIL 12 FOOD BANK 26 eDINBURG ISD SUPeRINTeNDeNTS MAY 12 eDINBURG BOYS/GIRLS CLUB

THE PALMS AT MID-VALLEY 956-565-3211APRIL 12 FOOD BANK 26 MeRCeDeS CHAMBeR CROWNe CLAS. MAY 4 WeSLACO KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

PALMVIEW GOLF COURSE 956-681-3444APRIL 25-27 API MAY 3 MCHI BOOSTeR CLUB

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RIVERBEND GOLF COURSE 956-548-0192HAVe A BeAUTIFUL SUMMeR WINTeR TeXANS

SHARY MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 956-580-8770APRIL 11 AIA 17 MISSION JUNIOR HIGH 19 MISSION LeADeRSHIP 26 MISSION KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

MAY 3 JeSSIe LeRMA GOLF/6K RUN 10 MISSION JUNIOR DISTRICT JUNe 7 MISSION JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMeNT

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND GOLF CLUB 956-943-4653MAY 3 LAGUNA MADRe BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

STUART PLACE GOLF COURSE 956-428-2000HAVe A BeAUTIFUL SUMMeR WINTeR TeXANS

TIERRA DEL SOL GOLF COURSE 956-702-2320APRIL 12 BASILICA OF SAN JUAN 19 FRIeNDS OF HIDALGO 26 SeNIOR NCOMAY 17 PSJA NORTH RAIDeR 24 VALLeYVIeW ISD FOR SCHLORSHIP

TIERRA SANTA GOLF COURSE 956-973-1811APRIL 11 SANTeX 12 eDCOUCH eLSA ROTARY 18 ARMY/NAVY CReDIT UNION 26 FCA MAY 3 WISD SCHLORSHIP FOUNDATION 17 PICO De GALLO 24 BORDeR PATROL JUNe HeB (CALL FOR DeTAILS)

TONY BUTLER GOLF COURSE 956-216-5970HAVe A BeAUTIFUL SUMMeR WINTeR TeXANS

TREASURE HILLS 956-365-3100APRIL 5 PAGA 16 STPGA JUNIOR

VALLEY INTERNATIONAL CC 956-546-5331TUeSDAYS HOT 9 @ 5:30SATURDAYS VICC MeNS GOLF ASSOCIATION


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STORY BY HENRY MILLERPHOTOS BY JOEY DOWDEN


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THE MORGAN FILES

NAME: Morgan Jean McClaughertyAGE: 17SCHOOL: Harlingen High SchoolGRADE: 11th gradeDAD: Glen McClaughertyHOME COURSE: Treasure Hills Golf ClubBEST ROUND: 67 (-5) Fort Brown Golf CourseFAVORITE COURSE: The Maxx Golf Club in Laredo, Texas

FAVORITE PROS: Tigers Woods, Bubba Wat-son, Jordan Spieth FAVORITE FOOD: Grilled Chicken Caesar SaladHIGH SCHOOL COACH: Chris MilliganHOBBIES: Play golf, practice, work outNOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THIS: “in the last couple years I realized my calling in life, is to play golf, is to change the world of golf forever.”

MORGAN MCLAUGHERTYStronger, Straighter...Better

Watch out world. This is the new Morgan McLaugherty. The girl who may have been a little content with hovering around 70 is no longer around. The Harlingen Lady Cardinal who is aiming for perfection – and has a goal of making the LPGA one day – is now realizing that the sky is the limit.

“Morgan is the only one I know who

gets up at 5:30 in the morning and is at the golf course by 6:30, practicing for an hour,” said the Palms at Mid-Valley Golf Pro Joe Powell, who also works closely with Morgan and her swing. “She goes home and then she goes to school then after school she's back out on the course.

“I don't know any other high school player that's doing that. That's why she's surpassing these others.”

Morgan started playing at the age of 8, hitting the golf course with her dad Glen on a regular basis. She “just played” until

she was 10 and then started competing in events like the South Texas PGA or events like the Texas-Oklahoma Championship. She quickly learned that playing outside the Valley was a whole different ballgame.

“You need more height when you get out of here,” said Morgan, a junior at Harlingen High School. “When you leave here there's a lot more undulation and more bunkers and you have to be able to hit it high and stop it more.”

It's been a subtle, but roller-coaster ride for The Lady Cardinal, who first noticed her game climbing to a new level when she was in junior high school while working with the school's coach daily. When he left the school, Morgan said her game started to get away again. In between her sophomore and junior years, however, it came back with the help of both Powell and Joe Cardenas at Treasure Hills Golf Course. .

This year, however, it has soared. McLaugherty has watched her scoring average drop from 78 to 71. This season, she broke her person best three times, the most recent a 67.

One time Morgan and Powell played a round. Powell finished with a 68. Even though Morgan shot a 72, Powell told her she should've beat him that day.

“The sky is the limit for her and she could make it to the Tour if she keeps it up. She shot a 67 and it came in a tournament setting with all the pressures.

“A lot of it is in between the ears and she's mentally tough. She would try to steer into the clubhouse without blowing up. That last time we played she got tight when

Morgan McLaugherty walked off the No. 18 green at Fort Brown Golf Course in Brownsville after fir-ing off a personal best 5-under 67 during the first

day of the Texas high school district tournament earlier this month.

“I didn't make a birdie putt longer than 8-feet,” McLaugh-erty said. “Imagine if I had been putting well.”

Morgan says her improved short game has made a dif-ference in her scoring his year.


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she was 2- or 3-under. I told her when you get there start shooting at the pins more. She could be shooting in the mid-60s quite often before you know it.”

The next tournament after the two played, Morgan went out to Tony Butler and shot 69-69 over a two-day tournament.

“I think she was 5-under at one point and bogeyed No. 17,” Powell said.

“But she realized that when she gets that cushion, that's the time she can go for it.”

Morgan said that her work ethic was a huge factor in helping her scores drop.

“I worked really hard last summer,” said Morgan, who also works hard in the class-room and is in the top 10 percent of her class with her grades. “I thought I had al-ways been working hard, but I hadn’t been. I worked harder than ever in my entire life last summer. I lived at the golf course and the gym.

“There are so many things that work to-gether to become a better golfer – practice, working out, eating. You have to incor-porate all those things. Between June and

August I saw a huge different in my game.”Another thing that helped was making a

grip change – even though Morgan fought it for the first few weeks.

“My right hand was very weak and Joe (Powell) wanted me to get it more on top. It was like an inch of movement but it com-pletely altered my swing. It took me a solid three weeks to get used to it. My feeling was that if it wasn't broke, don't fix it,” Morgan said. “But that's part of the mental game. You can't give up on something. It was a humbling experience – a teaching profes-sional knows more than the player.

“It's definitely helped me. I'm not a long hitter but it's given me more distance and more accuracy.”

Powell said that Morgan was in a position where she needed to do something differ-ent. Her grip was only going to allow her so much distance.

“She could shoot par her way but under pressure she started hooking the ball and that's hard to avoid,” Powell said. “You want to be aggressive and hit it further and for

a right-handed player to get optimum dis-tance she needed to use the right hand and she really wasn't.

“Now, the way she hits her driver dead straight on some of those par 4s she can hit driver and chip on the green. It’s a ot easier to get birdies from 50 yards than 150 yards out.”

Morgan's plans after high school are to play college golf, but she hasn't given out any verbal commitments yet. She said she will major in business and marketing.

But for now it's keep on working and keep on improving. While Morgan claims that there wasn't any real breakthrough round that catapulted her from good to bet-ter, she admits that the district round of 67 was a good deal.

“That was really good, but to do that and not make any long putts and to wonder what I could've shot if I was making some putts.... that's scary.”

“She has always been a good little player and with her work ethic she just passes everyone,” Powell said. “The sky's the limit for her.”

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Feature nameLORENA OCHOA

Lorena Ochoa’s time on the LPGA Tour wasn’t one of the longer timelines when compared to many of the top golfers in the world.

But her time clearly was one of the most – if not the most – dominant times in the history of the LPGA Tour. Ochoa, born in Guadalajara, Mexico, was ranked the No. 1 Player in the World for more than three years, was the LPGA Player of the Year for four straights years, won 27 LPGA events... the list goes on and on.

When Ochoa retired in 2010 at the age of 28, she was still the top-ranked player in the world.

And now she’s coming to Cimarron Country Club for the Copa Maxwell 2014, sponsored by Maxwell Magazine.“We are excited to welcome Lorena to the RGV,” said Guillermo Cruz, Director of the event. “We have no doubt that this event will be remembered.

The event will be held Friday, May 23 and Saturday, May 24. A portion of the proceeds will donated to the Valley Migrant Student Scholarship Foundation.

The two-day event includes a conference on Friday with Ochoa entitled “Una Actitud Ante La Vida, Mi Vision.” It focuses on companies and is based on the life experi-ence that led Ochoa to be one of the most successful sports figures in the world. That is followed up with a private dinner with Ochoa at 8 p.m. Friday exclusively for players and sponsors.

Saturday will be a day full of fun activi-ties for the kids as businesses will be giv-

ing away samples and much more will be happening.

Also Saturday there will be a Golf Clinic with Ochoa. This will be an integrated event with golf and activities that include setting objectives, team building and ex-ecution shooting.

The big highlight is the Tournament, which begins at 10 a.m. Saturday. The tournament will be a three-player format with only one single digit handicap player per team. A 3-person team is $2,250. Men-tion this article to receive a 10% discount when you buy a team up until May 2.

There will be prizes for the first three places as well as hole-in-one and closest to the pin prizes.

For more information call (956) 313-1709.All tournament entry fees include tick-

ets to the Ochoa Conference and Clinic, the tournament, breakfast, lunch and bever-ages tournanent day, an official tourna-ment cap, duffle bag and golf balls and the opportunity to win a 2014 Maserati and a Rolex watch for a hole in one.

“Our vision in Maxwell Cup 2014, is to promote sports in children, youth and adults as well as to educate and entertain our community with values focused on an active life style,” Cruz said. “At the same time we want to contribute to society by allocating part of the revenue generated by the tournament to the Valley Migrant Student Sholarship Fund.”

FORMER WORLD NO. 1COMING TO CIMARRON

HIGHLIGHTS/AWARDSFOR LORENA OCHOA

2002Futures Tour Rookie of the YearFutures Tour Player of the Year

2003LPGA Rookie of the Year

2006Mexico National Sports AwardAP Female Athlete of the YearMexico Athlete of the YearLPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money Winner

LPGA Vare TrophyGolf Writers Assoc. of AmericaFemale Player of the Year

2007LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money WinnerLPGA Vare TrophyWomen’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the YearMexico National Sports AwardGolf Writers Assoc of AmericaFemale Player of the YearAP Female Athlete of the YeareFe Sportswoman of the YearHeather Farr Player Award

2008Best International Athlete eSPY LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Tour Money WinnerLPGA Vare TrophyGolf Writers Association of AmericaFemale Player of the Year

2009LPGA Rolex Player of the YearLPGA Vare Trophy

2011Bob Jones Award


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Feature nameCOVER STORY - RAUL GARZA, TIERRA DEL SOL

Raul Garza talks to offi-cials, guests, local resi-dents and other supporters at the grand re-opening of Tierra del Sol in Pharr.The City of Pharr invested $1 million to give the course a major facelift.

NOT DONE YETCity of Pharr, Garza continue to work on the newly re-opened (and improved) Tierra del Sol

BY HENRY MILLER

For Raul Garza, it’s a perfect job.It’s not an easy job. In fact, it could be considered multiple jobs

with plenty of challenges. But as director of golf at Tierra del Sol golf course, it’s a job he

loves as much as a kid in a candy store. If you ask him why, his answer is two-fold.

“I love helping people, the golfer and the people are my favorite part of this,” he’’ll say before you can finish asking the question. “And I love my city. This is where I grew up. This is my course. I’m so fortunate to have a city with leaders who believe in me and support us here. I’m just grateful.”

The All-America City of Pharr has invested more than once in Tierra del Sol; most recently spending nearly $1 million giving it a brand new look. From tee to green, it’s not the same golf course it once was.

“But we’re not finished,” Garza said. “This isn’t a one-and-done deal. There’s a lot more I want to do and the city wants to do. This is about our customers. We want them to come out here and have the best possible experience. That starts from custom-er service at the front door, to an end-of-the-night banquet in our banquet room, if need be.”

There’s also a vision of changing the entrance and possibly ex-


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Tierra del Sol700 E. Hall AcresPharr, Texas(956) 702-2320www.phargolf.comPar-72

Yardage:Blue tees: 6,827White tees: 6,266Gold tees: 5,820Red tees: 5,252

panding the parking lot; so when golfers first enter the course, they see golfers putting, chipping or at the driving range and they get an aesthetic perspective of the course and the remod-eled clubhouse.

Garza is a Pharr native. Tierra del Sol is his home course. Raul Garza started playing golf late in life; but remembers bringing his two sons to the course at very early ages – 3 and 1 ½. He even changed diapers on the course!

“everything was disposed of properly,” Garza joked. “This city and this course have been my life.”

Back then he would’ve laughed if you told him he’d be direct-ing the show at the course.

“No way,” said Garza, who graduated from Pan American University with a degree in Accounting and worked with the Pharr eDC as well as the Pharr events Center before taking over the 18-hole municipal course.

“I worked for City Manager Fred Sandoval years ago and we’ve known each all our lives,” Garza said. “He knows how I work and he and the city have trusted me with this project.”

Don’t be fooled, though. Running a golf course is more than just about “golf.” With employees (human resources), a pro shop (retail), a restaurant (food & beverage), golfers and tour-naments (actual golf) and landscaping, there’s a lot of juggling involved. Garza said the toughest part has been learning the landscaping; but with the help of Golf Course Superintendent Gabe Cabrera, Garza said he’s learned a lot.

“We have more work to do and I need to be able to use all the resources that are available. And to do that I have to listen and learn constantly,” Garza said. “But you couldn’t ask for anything better than the people around me and the leadership of this city. They are forward thinking.”

Mayor Pro-Tem Adan Farias is quick to point out that quality of life is an ongoing major issue. Over the last year, the city of Pharr also opened an aquatic park with water slides, a lazy river and an area for toddlers.

“Quality of life issues are one of the most important things a city can be involved with,” said Farias, who is also on the Tierra del Sol advisory board. “We believe having quality places to do family things are critical to a city. We continue to work on this golf course and we will continue to address and improve quality of life here.”

The city is also looking at attracting some type of major golf event to Tierra del Sol and is addressing other recreational interests such as tennis.

Garza said the response from golfers has been more positive than what he anticipated; and is humbled by it. As he drives

around the course, checking everything from fairways to greens, golfers regularly stop him to share a word - and they don’t hold back when it comes to the course.

“We have a large and very involved and wonderful Winter Texan base,” Garza said. “When they came back this year and came to play at Tierra Del Sol, they were very excited. We even had some of our biggest critics tell us how much they enjoyed the course – and that says a lot.” You can see the energy and enthusiasm Raul Garza brings to his role as the individual responsible for keeping the community happy.

“We’re here for the people. That’s my favorite part of this job. I love helping people . And I listen.”

Unfortunately, the one thing he doesn’t do as much now that he runs a golf course is golf.

“I don’t get out as much as I used to,” Garza said. “But it’s great to be able to walk out of my office and know that the golf course is right there. I can’t stress enough how much I enjoy working here, with the people here and with the leader-ship at the city.” Tierra Del Sol has come a long way and in-vites you to experience the advantage of this newly renovated jewel of south Texas.

Garza and Golf Course Superintendant Gabe Cabrera look over one of the new greens as it’s being watered at Tierra del Sol in Pharr.


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VAMOS PROFILE

BY HENRY MILLER

Dr. Armando Moncada has affected many children’s lives.

There will be many more to benefit from his care of others.

Whether it’s through cleft-lip surgeries in Guatemala, Nicaragua or the Valley, or as the driving force behind the fundrais-ing efforts of the annual VAMOS Cup Golf Tournament, Moncada has made it a mis-sion, a life-long goal, to help.

As you talk with him you also realize one thing, he believes that this is what he’s on earth to do. There’s no gloating, no bragging, just a matter-of-fact realiza-tion that there are others in need and he, along with others, should provide.

“Maybe it’s part of my DNA,” said Mon-cada from his office at Moncada Hand & Plastic Surgery in McAllen. “My grand-mother would treat people in town when there were no doctors. Or she would bring food to the sick and poor patients and I would go with her bringing pans or whatever else I could carry.

“That’s how she was. That’s how I grew up. I knew from when I was 6 or 7 that I wanted to be a doctor.”

Moncada has been the VAMOS Cup Golf Committee Director since its inception. In May the tournament was held for the 18th straight year. More than 200 golfers, plenty of food, prizes and volunteers filled Palm View golf course en route to more than $700,000 beinf raised.

“Years ago we had a conversation with Alonzo (Cantu, VAMOS founder) and he wanted to create a foundation to assist students. I suggested a golf tournament as a good way to do it.”

Moncada already had plenty of experi-ence with tournaments, running Docs for Tots for 15 years. That event would raise upwards of $80,000. Volunteers and com-mittee members would spend most of a day using that money to buy toys for the Marines to pass out to children.

“It takes a lot of time to spend $80,000 on toys,” Moncada said. “The Valley has always been good when it comes to giving

for kids.”And they’ve come out in full force for

VAMOS, which raised more than $300,000 in the first event.

The Valley Allliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) mission is to provide renewable scholar-ships to all deserving students in Hidalgo, Cameron, and Starr counties for the purpose of completing a post secondary education.

“This takes a lot more than one person. We have not only a great committee but an amazing group of volunteers,” Monca-da said. “This is really two tournaments in one, with the same prizes and everything in the afternoon flight as in the morn-ing flight so it takes twice the amount of work. But the committee and volunteers get it ready every year.”

Moncada has played in all but one of the VAMOS Cup tournaments and picked up golf at a young age. He didn’t play regularly until he moved to Nebraska in 1975 and played with his then in-laws. One of the family members still travels to McAllen to play in the McAllen Country Club member-guest.

Likewise, Moncada plays away from the Valley – being a member of a team at country club in Managua, Nicaragua. each year different clubs from Central America compete for bragging rights. This year they played in Panama and Moncada’s team finished second, behind the host club.

“Home course advantage,” Moncada said. “But we played well.”

Golf is a great bridge for Moncada and he has used it – abroad and here at home – to help others, especially those who can’t help themselves.

“It’s not me, it’s the donors and people who give so much for kids,” he said. “Al-truism is something everybody should do. A lot of people don’t understand that. My primary joy is addressing children when they have congenital anomalies – cleft lips, cleft palettes. I’ve worked with all kinds of deformities and kids with trauma from burns or dog bites or amputations. Without good people we couldn’t help these kids the way we do.

“Likewise, without good committee members and volunteers we couldn’t give away the scholarships we do either.”

DR. ARMANDO MONCADA

PUTTING OTHERS FIRST

Blessed are those who give without remembering and take without forgetting. – Princess Elizabeth (Asquith) Bibesco, from the book Haven, 1951


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Feature name18TH ANNUAL VAMOS CUP AT PALM VIEW GOLF COURSE


››ON THe LINKS18TH ANNUAL VAMOS CUP AT PALM VIEW GOLF COURSE

Little black dress

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Feature nameTEXAS RED GRAPEFRUIT DAY GOLF BENEFIT AT MCALLEN CC


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Feature name62ND LIFE BEGINS AT 40 TOURNAMENT AT HARLINGEN CC

Ron Kilby, left, came from 2-down to win his eighth Life Begins at 40 Golf Tournament on the first playoff hole at Harlingen Country Club. L.D. Clopton, right, the defending champion, was seeking his third title.


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››GOLF GRUB: HARLINGEN COUNTRY CLUB

FOOD FIT FOR KINGS(and a 9-year-old girl)

I recently read a book where during one chap-ter two people were being fed by some mytho-logical Mayan gods (not so mythical in the book of course).

They were mere mortals being treated like gods - and fed by them as well.

I know how they felt after eating at Harlingen Country Club.

Chef and Food & Beverage Director Adam ezzell and Restaurant Manager Ashley Levin (photo at right) treated us (us being two adults and a 9-year-old girl) to an exquisite smorgasbord of amazingly pre-pared and presented dishes.

Obviously, being a country club, the food reaches a different level than most golf courses with more choices and more complex dishes.

every one of these dishes were amazing.Let’s put it this way - my 9-year-old daughter

ate beef ribeye nachos, some filet mignon, per-fectly cooked and seasoned asparagus, grilled onions and most of her own steak, cooked to perfection and then had dessert.

Of course, if you’ve followed golf grub over the previous editions you know I have not a sweet tooth but a meat tooth - I love beef.

That leads me straight to the filet mignon, medium rare (seen at left). every bite was a lesson in how to make a simple filet -- seasoned with just salt and pepper - blackened to perfec-tion.

To me, the thicker the piece of meat the more complicated it is to give it that consistent level of pink throughout. That wasn’t the case here and this steak was crispy, juicy and filled with flavor. The asparagus, crispy onion straws and a twice-baked potato was a perct combination, both for my visual enjoyment and moreso for my taste bud enjoyment.

The other adult party is as big a fish, chicken, pork eater as I am a beef eater. He tore into his Gulf snapper and crab picatta pan fried with jumbo crab meat, capers, tomatoes, white wine and lemon butter (top right photo).

He’s a critic when it comes to food and ex-tremely picky.

Not a word was spoken as he ate this more complicated, but spectacularly prepared and presented meal. This was served with a side of rice - and more aspargus (rice and asparagus

mostly eaten by my daughter - gotta love it!)“Featuring the Snapper is a must here in

South Texas with being so close to the Gulf, Chef Adam said. “Show-casing this dish topped with lump crabmeat and picatta sauce has definitely enhanced it”

Chef Adam told us that the asparagus runs out faster than anything be-cause diners just love it. I can’t say I disagree. I could seriously take a large plate

full of the divine stalks and just eat them throughout a day (lets make that several large plates.

On of my my problems with fish is that I grew a major dislike for it as a child. I just never could get into the taste and I remember always being hungry afterwards.

Most of those memories quickly dis-appeared as I tried the snapper. Light and easily breakable in your mouth, all the flavors mixed together were amaz-ing. And while it was light, it was also very satisfying in regards to the portion.

It’s definitely something I would or-der next time - if I could pull away from the filet mignon.

Another dish that Adam and Ashley brought out for us to try included the Diablo Chicken sandwich grilled with onions and pep-per on jalpeno bread. This was servied with sweet potato fries and an amazingly fresh, crunchy wedge salad with house bleu cheese, bleu cheese crumbles, tomatoes, red onions and bacon (bottom right photo).

If you’re not looking for a big dinner-style meal, this is more than enough for a great lunch. The combination was perfect. (And the house peppercorn dressing might be worth getting a membership... imagine eating that with a filet... oh, sorry, I digressed).

This was all topped off with some bread pud-ding topped with white chocalate and whiskey sauce (middle right photo).

Clearly this was enough food for three or four adults (and a 9-year-old), but I’m glad it was just us three on this occasion.

After all, how often do mere mortals get fed by cooking gods?


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COURSE NAME: Meadow Creek Golf Club

ADDRESS: 1300 Circle DriveMission, Texas 78592

PHONE: Pro Shop (956) 350-4000; Office (956) 581-6262

EMAIL: [email protected]

DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION: Otis Hesteness

ANNUAL TOURNAMENTS: 22 Annual Tournaments

PAR: 70

YARDAGE: Blue - 6,059White – 5,488 Red - 4,747

FAIRWAY GRASS: Bermuda

GREENS: Bermuda

ABOUT THE COURSE: Lots of water on the back 9. No. 18 as tough a finishing hole around from the blues. Course is a good test for any level of golfer.

OTHER INFORMATION: Driving Range, Pro Shop, Pro Shop Grill and the 19th Hole is Open Daily

Meadow Creek is rebuilding its reputation as a challenging course

MEADOW CREEKGOLF CLUB



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FEATURE NAMEGOLF COURSE DIRECTORY


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Adolfo Cubriel

Adolfo Cubriel


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››MISSION JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMENT“Help Make That Dream Possible”

SATURDAY, JUNE 78:30 A.M.

SHARY GOLF COURSE

Help Us Send The Kids To The TAAF Games, July 30-Aug. 2

The Mission Junior Golf Program Goals:-- Instruction -- Etiquette-- Management -- Rules

-- Fun

TO REGISTER: SHARY PRO SHOP (956) 580-8770COACH OCANA (956) 821-5185EMAIL: [email protected]

This fundraiser pays for: bus, hotel, meals, shirts, caps & chaperones

CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS “HOME OF THE GRAPEFRUIT”

SPONSORSHIPS (what you receive)HOLE - $200 (Sign)PAR - $400 (1 Team & Sign)BIRDIE - $600 (2 Teams & Sign)HOLE-IN-ONE - $1,000 (3 Teams and 2 Signs)

INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS: $75 per person

HANDICAP FORMAT: First Flight (one player 0-5, two players 6-11) Second Flight (three players 12 and above)


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Chris Meade

Chris Meade


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Place:Flamingo Bowl / Tierra Santa Golf Course

Dates:June 21 Bowling (Saturday, 2 p.m.)June 22nd Golf (Sunday, 11 a.m.)

Format:3-person Bowling Team / Florida Scramble

Cost:$240.00 Per Team...36 Teams

Fees Include: Green Fees, Lane Fees, Golf Cart, Lunch on Saturday and Sunday and Awards

Bowl Format: 1st Game Regular, 2nd Game 9 pin no tap, 3rd Game 3, 6, 9

Deadline to register is June 18, 2014

Contacts:Andy Flores

(956) 495-6716 or (956) 686-1286David Garza

(956) 533-5772

6TH ANNUAL


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That special time of the year is here again. MOTHeRS DAY!!!

Mothers are the backbone of the family. We know dad is the strong one and the wanna be leader of the pack but it’s mom who keeps the family together. She is the force behind every good decision we make…..she puts a band aid on our cuts, she reassures us when we make a bad grade in school, she holds us in our time of need and she praises the good we do.

My mother died not long ago and I miss her dearly. I remember all the wonder-ful things my mother did for me. Those special surprises for a good grade in school, the manners placed in me for the way I treated others and the punish-ments when I needed them the most. Yes, punishments are good at times as they mature us for life. Oh and yes, the boom-a-rang slipper. My mother had a slipper (a really flimsy soft slipper) that when us kids misbehaved we would take off running and that slipper would somehow find our rear end, only to turn around and there she was holding that same slipper. HOW?!!! Yes, the fond memories I have of

my mother will live forever.South Texas Golf Magazine wants to

wish all the mothers a HAPPY MOTHeRS DAY! Following a poem that depicts what my mother meant to me.

Guiding Light MomMom, from the time I was really young,I realized I had someone...you,who always cared,who always protected me,who was always there for me no matter what.You taught me right from wrong,

and pushed me to do the right thing,even when it was hard to do.You took care of me when I was sick,and your love helped make me well.You had rules,and I learned that when I obeyed them,my life was simpler, better, richer.You were and arethe guiding light of my life.My heart is filled with love for you,my teacher, my friend, my mother.

--By Karl and Joanna Fuchs This Mothers Day give mom the biggest and the most awesome hug you could ever give. She deserves it. After all…MUM’S THe WORD!!!

MUM’S THE WORD

JOEY’S CORNER

“Hi I’m Madison and I’m from Pensacola, Florida. Just to let you know…That’s my dad in the other picture. I love to shop, sing and, well… shop. I hope you enjoy South Texas Golf Magazine as much as I do. Be seeing you…..Madison.”

-- Joey Dowden is COO and Advertising Director of South Texas Golf.


››2014 GOLF DIRECTORY

HONORED ONCE AGAINMillerCoors added to its unmatched

collection of brewing honors when the 2014 World Beer Cup awards were an-nounced in Denver earlier this month.

Seven MillerCoors beers received in-dividual honors, including a sweep of the “American-Style Lager or Light Lager or Pilsener.” Those wins give the brewer a combined 278 awards in the bien-nial World Beer Cup and annual Great

American Beer Festival, both hosted by the Brewers Association.

Following is a complete list of brand medals won by MillerCoors:

GOLDCoors Light - American-Style Lager or

Light Lager or PilsenerGeorge Killian’s Irish Red - Iris-Style

Red AleWinterfest (AC Golden Brewing Com-

pany - American-Style Amber Lager

SILVERMiller Genuine Draft - American-Style

Lager or Light Lager or PilsenerIcehouse - American-Style Cream Ale

BRONZECoors Banquet - American-Style La-

ger or Light Lager or PilsenerHenry Weinard’s Blue Boar (Blitz-

Weinhard Brewing) - American Style Cream Ale.

FOLLOW GLAZERS ON FACEBOOKwww.facebook.com/glazersrgv


Feature nameLEISURE - FOOD & DRINK

Tastes of Spring are in The Patio aireach season has its own colors,

scents and tastes.So, what does Spring taste like?Honey, berries, lime and coconut.

Just the names probably send you on a visual exotic adventure. But you don't have to go far – just to The Patio on Guerra.

Winter has its own tastes, that of cin-namon, tea, wood and spices but now we enjoy being in the middle of Spring. As a bartender here at The Patio on Guerra I try not to set the rules but rather improve upon the guidelines for our guests.

Our approach to “perfect pairings” combines the best seasonal selections with interesting new beer, wine and spirits for a dining experience that will be as tantalizing as it is memorable. As a bartender, I dance to the beat of your drum and prepare our signature, premium cocktails feature seasonal selections made just for you. extra lime, not too tart, extra dry, no citrus, however YOU like your drink…

That being said our drinks are always conceived from a greater abstract idea and we start chipping down from there, deconstructing that idea until we come to a common denominator and build a drink from there. The best tasting drinks – and food for that matter – are made from simple, delicious ingredients.

This Spring, we are taking a really fun light-hearted approach to our cocktail menu. As a bartender, there's nothing better than coming up with mixtures that tantalize your taste buds. Check out some of the delicious mixtures that we are featuring.

This season we will be mixing straw-berries, cilantro and dragon fruit rum to create a Rio Grande Valley version of a mojito. We also are featuring a Mexi-can chocolate, coconut and caramel bourbon iced coffee that’s a perfect after dinner drink. We're also show-casing a mixed berry, limoncello and honey syrup martini. Of course, there are many others that we are featuring to complement our existing lineup of

award-winning drinks.All the cocktails in our menu are craft

cocktails. We take as much pride in our jack and cokes as we do in our old fash-ioned. There is no cocktail more impor-tant than yours. Whatever it may be, let us take care of you. Join us at The Patio on Guerra and enjoy McAllen’s live music at its best! Try a cocktail or two from our exceptional bar menu while listening to the best live entertainment.

Patio on Guerra features the best in South Texas with delicious savory dishes, award-winning wines, exotic cocktails, and the best in live entertain-ment. Whether you are looking for a great place to wind down after a hard working day or for a business meeting, an anniversary, a proposal, or “just be-cause” come enjoy the beautiful colors, scents and flavors of Spring.

The Patio on Guerra is located at 116 S 17th St, McAllen, TX 78501. Call them for reservations at (956) 661-9100 or visit them at www.patioonguerra.com.


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Feature nameLEISURE - FINANCE

Calculating a retirement savings goal is one of the most important steps investors can take to help determine if they are on pace to meet that goal. However, most American workers haven’t tried to figure out how much money they will need to accumulate for retirement. What about you?

PLANNING MATTERSWhat’s important to realize is that

the exercise of calculating a retirement savings goal does more than simply provide you with a dollars and cents es-timate of how much you’ll need for the future. It also requires you to visualize the specific details of your retirement dreams and to assess whether your current financial plans are realistic, comprehensive, and up-to-date.

ACTION PLANSThe following four strategies will

help you do a better job of identifying and pursuing your retirement savings goals.

Double-check your assumptions. Be-fore you do anything else, answer these important questions: When do you plan to retire? How much money will you need each year? Where and when do you plan to get your retirement income? Are your investment expectations in line with the performance potential of the investments you own?

USE A PROPER CALCULATORThe best way to calculate your goal

is by using one of the many interac-tive worksheets now available free of charge online and in print. each type features questions about your financial situation as well as blank spaces for you to provide answers. An online ver-sion will perform the calculation auto-matically and respond almost instantly with an estimate of how much you may need for retirement and how much more you should try to save to pursue

that goal. If you do the calculation on a paper worksheet, however, you might want to have a traditional calculator on hand to help with the math. Remember that your ultimate goal is to save as much money as possible for retirement regardless of what any calculator might suggest.

CONTRIBUTE MORE Do you think you could manage to

save another $10 or $20 extra each pay period? If so, here’s some motivation to actually do it: Contributing an extra $20 each week to your plan could provide you with an additional $130,237 after 30 years, assuming 8% annual invest-

ment returns. At the very least, you should try to contribute at least enough to receive the full amount of your employer’s matching contribution (if of-fered). It’s also a good idea to increase contributions annually, such as after a pay raise.

MEET WITH AN ADVISOR A financial professional can help you

determine a strategy -- and help you stick to it.

Retirement will likely be one of the biggest expenses in your life, so it’s important to maintain an accurate price estimate and financial plan. Make it a priority to calculate your savings goal at least once a year.

The result shown is for illustrative pur-poses only. The hypothetical returns used do not reflect the deduction of fees and charges inherent to investing. Taxes are due upon withdrawal. Your results will vary.

Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by S&P Capital IQ Finan-cial Communications or its sources, neither S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in con-nection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content.

© 2013 S&P Capital IQ Financial Com-munications. All rights reserved.

How much do you need to retire?Let’s Calculate

Harvey Lopez brings more than 15 years experience of Wealth Management, business solutions and Insurance experience serv-ing the entire Rio Grande Valley. His office is located at 801 E. Fern, McAllen, Texas, 78501. If you have questions, you can call Harvey at (956) 874-8750


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Feature nameLEISURE - TRAVEL

Pinehurst No. 2, the centerpiece of Pinehurst Resort, remains one of the world’s most celebrated golf courses. It has served as the site of more single golf championships than any course in America and, in 2014, will make history again, becoming the first to serve as host to the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Champion-ships in consecutive weeks.

Opened in 1907, No. 2 was de-signed by Donald Ross, who called it “the fairest test of championship golf I have ever designed.”

Ross was associated with the course for nearly a half-century, improving the course continually until his death in 1948.

No. 2 is best known for its crowned, undulating greens, which are some of the most complex and widely hailed in the world. In March 2011, No. 2 reopened following a yearlong, $2.5 million restoration by the design firm of Coore & Crenshaw that restored the course’s natural and historic character.

More history makingat Pinehurst No. 2

Championships on Pinehurst No. 2

U.S. Open Championship1999, 2005, 2014Ryder Cup Matches1951PGA Championship1936U.S. Women’s Open Championship2014U.S. Men’s Amateur Championship1962, 2008THE TOUR Championship1991, 1992U.S. Senior Open Championship1994Maxfli PGA Junior Championship1993USGA Women’s Amateur1989Independent Insurance Youth Classic (Big I)1987, 1992Men’s & Women’s World Amateur Team

Championship1980North & South Junior Tournament(since 1979)World Golf Hall of Fame Classic1973-1982PGA Club Professional Championship1971-74, 1988Western Golf Association Amateur Cham-pionship1966Southern Golf Association Amateur Championship1965, 1977North & South Senior Women’s Amateur(since 1958)North & South Senior Men’s Amateur(since 1952)Donald Ross Memorial Junior(since 1948)North & South Women’s Amateur(since 1903North & South Open Championship1902-1951North & South Men’s Amateur(since 1901)

PLAY PINEHURSTPinehurst Resort, the site of the U.S. Open and

U.S. Women’s Open Championships in June, has unveiled three unique opportunities to experi-ence its championship summer - before, during and after the big events.

Championship Preview PackageTake an advance look at the course that will

decide two national champions in June. Available June 1-8 beginning at $199 per person, the package includes accommodations, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet and one round of golf on Pinehurst No. 6, 7 or 8.

U.S. Women’s Open Golf PackageStay a short walk from the 18th green and

receive a Trophy Club ticket to the first U.S. Women’s Open to be conducted on Pinehurst No. 2. Available June 16-22 beginning at $341 per person, the package includes resort accommoda-tions, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet, one round of golf on No. 6, 7 or 8 and a ticket that offers Trophy Club access.

Champions Challenge PackageWalk in the footsteps of Pinehurst’s newest

champions and experience the same champion-ship conditions that will have tested golf’s best men and women. Available June 26-29 following the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Champion-ships, the Champions Challenge starts at $2,014 per person and features three nights and four rounds of golf, including one on No. 2 with a cad-die, Pinehurst’s famed breakfast buffet, dinner and a commemorative U.S. Open gift.

Guests can make reservations by calling 800-487-4653. For more information, including pho-tos and video, visit pinehurstmedia.com. Connect with Pinehurst Resort on Facebook and Twitter.


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THE OFFICIAL AND ONLY AUTHORIZED CLUB CAR DEALER FOR CLUB CAR CARRYALLTM

PRODUCTS IN THE RIO GRAND VALLEY!


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april 2014 south texas golf

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