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Cut out the middleman.Reserve directly with the golfcourse and hotel operators.

Choose to stay at Bally’s, Caesars Palace,Flamingo, Harrah’s, Paris & Rio in Las Vegasand play at Cascata, Rio Secco, or one ofover 12 other fabulous golf courses.

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contents I early summer 2009

www.gvlinks.com6 GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009

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World-Class Alberta GolfVisit the Canadian Rockies golf and resort-lifestyle consortium - acollection of six acclaimed properties with breathtaking mountaingolf and an elevated lifestyle experience.

Fairmont Tees Up Summer Specialsby Larry Feldman

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hos-pitality brands, recently unveiled a host of outstanding values ongolf packages at its premier destinations just in time for summer.

On The Road In Tucsonby David R. Holland

The natural beauty of Arizona is on display here. Check out theArizona Sonoran Desert Museum and you will learn why this isone of the most special places on earth.

Florida’s Amelia Island Plantationby David R. Holland

Just 20 minutes north of Jacksonville, five miles south of theGeorgia border, and situated on the southern tip of AmeliaIsland, this is a spot in American history that is rich.

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

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on the cover: The Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club, Aventura, FL

12 Sweet Stuff by Terry Ross

Craftmanship Abounds in Miura Golf Line

26 Personal Postcard by Fred Robledo

Black Mesa Golf Club

28 My Turn by Brandon Tucker

Road to Golf Redemption

d e p a r t m e n t s

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009 7www.gvlinks.com

CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS

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.

Brandon Tucker is a Senior Writer and Special Projects Editor for the WorldGolf.comNetwork, where he contributes not only golf and travel articles, but photo essays, videosand more. His golf travels have taken him across the U.S., including more than 50 MyrtleBeach-area golf courses, and to such destinations as Scotland, Wales, Portugal, theCzech Republic, Poland, Germany and Malaysia.

Fred Robledo has been covering professional golf for more than 30 years. He wrote forthe Los Angeles Herald Examiner and the Los Angeles Times before moving into publicrelations where he promoted professional tour events for Brener Zwikel & Associates. Heis now semi-retired, traveling the country and reviewing golf destinations for GolfVacations Magazine.

David R. Holland is a former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, a football maga-zine publisher and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Multiple careers best describes thisworld traveler, who achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force reserve, servingduring the Vietnam and Desert Storm eras. His final Pentagon assignment took him toMonterey, California, where he started thinking about his next move – travel golf writing.

Larry Feldman is a nationally published freelance golf journalist of more than17 years. Based in Park City, Utah, his writing has appeared in such high-pro-file publications as Southern California Golf News, Palm Springs Life, Golf Tips,Sports Profiles and Men’s Look.

Executive EditorJeffrey Diaz

Associate EditorTerry Ross

Online Content EditorBruce Binder

Features EditorLarry Feldman

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

Advertising Representatives

New York • 518-789-3005Jon Meigs - [email protected]

Chicago • 630-871-9417Patrick Keane - [email protected]

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Dallas • 972-991-4994Phil Ganz - [email protected]

Hawaii • 760-774-1752Bruce Binder - [email protected]

San Diego • 619-709-4425Wayne McCollum - [email protected]

Inland Empire, CA • 951-237-5042Tony Smith - [email protected]

Mexico/Latin America • 949-547-7728Emilio Pedral - [email protected]

Published by

President Jeffrey Diaz

100 S. Sunrise Way., Suite 257Palm Springs, California 92262

1-800-940-7816 • fax 214-889-3667

and

Destiny Media, LLC

President/CEOJames A. Diaz

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

Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2009 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and

may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.


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 v LOVE MUCH v LAUGH OFTEN

LA TORRETTARistorante & Italian Steakhouse

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

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

GET GOLF READY AT BAY CREEKCAPE CHARLES, VA - Bay Creek Resort

& Club is bringing adults into the game of golfin a fast, fun and affordable way through the newGet Golf Ready in Five Days program.

The new industry-wide initiative is com-prised of a series of five introductory lessonsoffered by PGA Professionals in a small-group environment from June 29 -- July 3 forthe affordable price of $99.

The program is open to anyone whowants to learn the game or get a refresherafter having been away for a while. Bay Creekcan provide clubs to use for the program.

Significant on-course learning opportuni-ties will be a part of each lesson. Overall, par-ticipants will gain insight into techniquesregarding chipping, putting, full swing, halfswing and bunker play as well as the funda-mental guidelines regarding the use and main-tenance of golf equipment, keeping score andnavigating the course, among others.

For more information, or to register for theGet Golf Ready program at Bay Creek Resort& Club, visit www.GetGolfReady.com or callthe facility at 757-337-8623.

SUNSATIONAL SUMMER AT REUNIONORLANDO, FL - Get your foursome

together for the "Sunsational Summer GolfPackage" at Central Florida's ReunionResort & Golf Club. Golfpac Travel isoffering two nights and two rounds of golfstarting at $290.70 per person.

On this terrific package your foursomewill enjoy a spacious and handsomely appoint-

ed three-bed-room villa atReunionResort & GolfClub. Onproperty, you'llfind threechampionship

courses designed by Arnold Palmer, TomWatson and Jack Nicklaus.

To book your "Sunsational Summer GolfPackage" getaway, call a Golf Travel Expert at 888-848-8941 or visit www.golfpactravel.com. Referto code R-REUY3V to take advantage of this offer.

UNLIMITED GOLF AT HALF MOON BAYHALF MOON BAY, CA - Half Moon

Bay Golf Links, situated just 23 milessouthwest of San Francisco International

Airport, and The Ritz-Carlton, Half MoonBay are offering an unlimited, stay-and-playgolf package throughout 2009.

The package includes unlimited golf from 2p.m. the day of arrival to 7 p.m. the day ofdeparture on Half Moon Bay Golf Links' twoaward-winning, 18-hole courses: The OldCourse, designed by Arnold Palmer, and OceanCourse, an Arthur Hills links land design.

Accommodations are provided by TheRitz-Carlton and include: complimentary,overnight valet parking; resort fee (compli-mentary glass of wine at check-in, gratis WiFi,access to The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon BaySpa's co-ed Roman mineral bath and steamroom, group exercise classes, gym access, and

more); and acommemora-tive gift.

Ratesbegin at $399for one playeror $519 fortwo players

per night, during the week. Reserve by calling650.712.2228 or by visitingwww.ritzcarlton.com/hmb. For more infor-mation about Half Moon Bay Golf Links, visitwww.hmbgolflinks.com, or call 650.726.1800.

RESORTREPORT

www.gvlinks.com

ALBERTA, Canada - TheCanadian Rockies golf andresort-lifestyle consortium - acollection of six acclaimedproperties with breathtakingmountain golf and an elevatedlifestyle experience --announces new course fea-tures, unique facility upgradesand rates for the 2009 season,furthering the allure of thisworld-class destination.

The six properties --Canmore Golf & Curling Club, The FairmontBanff Springs, The Fairmont Jasper ParkLodge, Kananaskis Country Golf Course,Silvertip Resort and Stewart Creek Golf andCountry Club -- have chosen the tag line"Canadian Rockies Golf: Historic. Dramatic.Untamed." which reflects the area's attrib-utes, activities and resort lifestyle amenities.

On-course enhancements are highlighted

by Canmore's remodeling of the approach totwo of its holes -- the 1st and 10th -- with abrand-new entrance at 18. Kananaskis hasadded an entire fleet of Club Car carts forimproved access on both its Mt. Kidd and Mt.Lorette courses, while Stewart Creek createda Director of Instruction position responsiblefor coordinating lessons and clinics. This rolecomes a year after the facility constructed a

new clubhouse, golf shop,practice green and conces-sion area.

"Each of our six coursesare unique -- whether it bethe abundant wildlife thatroam free, hundreds of chal-lenging bunkers, or playingatop the majestic mountainscenery -- but the one unify-ing thread is to provide amemorable, life-changinggolf experience," says K.

Gordon Schultz, spokesman for the CanadianRockies consortium. "In addition to the spec-tacular golf, the Canadian Rockies feature aplethora of outdoor activities and summer-time daylight hours as late as 11pm so gueststruly get the most out of their visit."

At Silvertip, golfers will find one of thearea's most environmentally sound courses, asit recently earned one of four prestigious

10 GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009

World-Class AlbertaOffers 135 Golf Holes in Unspoiled Mountain Setting

Kananaskis Country Golf Course

www.gvlinks.com

GCSAA/Golf Digest awards given worldwidefor ecological stewardship, (Stewart Creekpreviously won this esteemed award). The twoFairmont properties -- Banff and Jasper --continue to uphold exceptional standards ofexcellence on classic courses designed by thegreat Stanley Thompson.

Off-the-course, visitors will find enhancedclubhouse facilities at Silvertip and Canmore.The former continues to grow its 600-acreStone Creek Resorts Club by building addi-tional world-class living and resort-rentalaccommodations while the latter has augment-ed its kitchen, washrooms and comfortable din-ing areas. Golfers will find a variety of deliciousdining options from first-rate chefs at all of theCanadian Rockies golf consortium members.

"Canadian Rockies Golf" is defined by his-toric, top-rated courses designed by iconicarchitects such as Thompson and RobertTrent Jones. It also features stunning modernlayouts by talented designers Les Furber andGary Browning. Hence, a mix of alluring clas-sical and alpine-style routings complementone another and enhance golfers' experiences.

What people are increasingly discovering,however, are the proximity of these propertiesto one another as well as the combined wealthof resort and lifestyle options accessible byCalgary and Edmonton airports -- from inter-national and commercial to regional and pri-vate. This allows visitors to conveniently comeand go, and to mention obtain desired teetimes and other activity reservations all while

enjoying majestic mountain-view sceneryspliced by glacier-fed tributaries.

To view the stunning topography, vacationoptions and learn more about the area visitwww.canadianrockiesgolf.ca or call 877.323.3633for more information.

THE L INEUPCanmore Golf & Curling Clubwww.canmoregolf.net 888.678.4785The Fairmont Banff Springswww.fairmont.com/banffsprings 800.441.1414The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodgewww.fairmont.com/jasper.com 800.441.1414Kananaskis Country Golf Coursewww.kananaskisgolf.com 877.591.2525Silvertip Golf Resortwww.silvertipresort.com 877.877.5444Stewart Creek Golf and Country Clubwww.stewartcreekgolf.com/golf 877.993.GOLF

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009 11

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The Fairmont Banff Springs Silvertip Golf Resort Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club


Miura Golf, which has developed a reputation among clubaficionados as one of the world’s finest manufactures ofcustom built irons in its 50-year history, has introduced

two new putter models to highlight some finely hand-crafted scor-ing tools that better golfers can appreciate.

Each putter will form part of Miura Golf's Series 1957. Series1957 will be a collection of Miura products which will reflect itsfounder— Katsuiro Miura's-- commitment to producing the absolutefinest golf equipment. The year 1957 represents the start of Miura’scareer in the golf business and his pursuit of the perfect set of irons.

First off the line will be two new putters. The KM 350 is a clas-sic Blade model while the MP 005 and MP 006 offer a traditionaldesign familiar to most golfers. Miura's Series 1957 putters confirmthat it is possible to match looks with performance. Miura puttersall undergo the same forging process as the Miura irons. Eachmodel's milled face is extremely forgiving resulting in uncommonfeel and distance control.

The forgiveness at impact also reduces skid, resulting in a truerroll of the ball. The Miura craftsmanship is evident in these newtoe-weighted offset putters, which each feature a classic oiled-chrome finish that complements each putter's soft visual features.

"We're very excited about these new putters," says Miura GolfVice President Bill Holowaty. "Katsuhiro Miura is a master crafts-man and his putters are works of art that feature looks and technol-ogy that will boost confidence and help golfers feel the ball and roll

their putts more smoothly and, consequently, improve their scores." Besides the new putter models, Miura Golf's current product

line also includes Blade (Tournament Blade Model); MC-102(Standard Cavity Model); CB-202 (Cavity Back Model) and CB 301(Progressive Cavity Back ) irons; and Wedges (Wedge Series andBlack Wedge Series, each available in six lofts).

Inspired by the eye of touring professionals, the Miura wedgeboasts a clean, classic shape. Forged means better feel. Feel meansmore control and better shots. Using his own coin forging process,

Miura has produced a forged wedge series with incredible feel. Minimal offset allows tremendous versatility on all shots

around the green. A rolled leading edge gives the player the con-fidence to be aggressive on full shots. Miura's forging techniquesrearrange the molecular structure of the mild steel in a pattern thatis uniform throughout the hitting area of the club in a manner thatis unique to his clubs. This tightness in the grain structure of themetal is what gives Miura-made clubs the controlled, soft feel thatother manufacturers cannot achieve.

Miura also uses a proprietary “spin welding” process to pro-duce the industries’ most consistent hosel. This unique procedureensures that the bore depths and hosel heights are identical onevery Miura made head and the shaft of every club will be perfect-ly centered. It is a painstaking hand process that makes these clubsin relatively short supply.

“We are a club company—not a marketing company,” addedHolowaty. “We are continuing to grow, but with our manufacturingprocess we can only build about 10,000 sets a year, whereas themajor companies may produce 50,000 to 100,000 sets a year.

“We listen to players to find out what they like and what worksbest—and we make changes in our design when we see that itimproves performance,” he added. “As Mr. Miura says, ‘our forgedclubs are made to perform first and sell second, while a lot of clubsare made to sell first and perform second.’”

Miura Golf's corporate office is located in Vancouver, BritishColumbia and Miura Golf clubs are sold at the finest custom-fittingshops in North America. More information on Miura products canbe found at www.miuragolf.com.

Terry Ross

SWEETSTUFF

www.gvlinks.com GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009 13


Scottsdale, Ariz. – As the global economy begins to show signsof life, golf travelers are discovering a silver lining among thedissipating storm clouds. Premier properties are offering

exceptional values, and once-in-a-lifetime golf vacations are nowwell within the reach of most golfers.

For example, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’sleading luxury hospitality brands, recently unveiled a host of out-standing values on golf packages at its premier destinations just intime for summer. Full details and booking information for thesepackages are available online at www.fairmont.com/promo/golf-packages or by contact Dan Cormier, Golf Coordinator, FairmontGolf Desk, toll-free 1-888-860-8282 or via [email protected]

The golf vacation packages include:Fairmont St Andrews, Five Rounds. Five NightsWho hasn’t dreamed of a storybook visit to the village of StAndrews, the home of golf? Fairmont St Andrews, in co-operationwith PerryGolf, is offering a summer golf package that can bringthis dream to life. Five nights accommodations; Five rounds of golf;Fairmont Torrance Course; Kingsbarns – two rounds; St AndrewsOld Course – subject to the daily lottery; St Andrews New Course;Free breakfast each day; Shared rental car; Golf concierge. Travel must be completed by Oct. 31, 2009. Prices start at just $2,195 pergolfer and $1,295 for each non-golfer.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Golf “Fore” FreeBlending iconic luxury, welcoming ambiance and stunning natural

beauty, Fairmont Chateau Whistler in British Columbia is an idealalpine golf destination. This summer, the resort’s Golf “Fore” Freevacation package provides: Luxury accommodations; Up to twocomplimentary rounds of golf per person, per day.The package is available from May through Oct. 2009. Rates start at $199,based on double occupancy.

Fairmont Turnberry Isle, Free GolfBeautifully manicured and located near Miami, the resort’s summerpackage includes: Luxury accommodations; Complimentary golf oneither of Fairmont Turnberry Isle’s two 18-hole golf courses;Complimentary daily breakfast buffet in the new Cascata Grille;Complimentary overnight valet parking ; A $50 resort credit perroom per night. The package is available from May 21st to Sept. 30th, 2009. Rates start at$309 per night, double occupancy.

Fairmont Banff Springs, Golf “Fore” FreeNestled amidst the resounding beauty of Banff National Park,Fairmont’s “Castle in the Rockies” is offering: Luxury accommoda-tions; Up to two complimentary rounds of golf per person, per day. The package is available from May through Oct. 2009. Rates start at $399,based on double occupancy.

Fairmont Mayakoba, Unlimited GolfLocated on Mexico’s beautiful Mayan Riviera, guests will enjoy:Luxury accommodations; One round of golf per adult per day onthe El Camaleon golf course (home of the PGA Tour MayakobaClassic); Breakfast buffet for two adults; Unlimited same-day access

Fairmont Mayakoba

Fairmont Algonquin

by LarryFeldman

Summer’s Best Golf GetawaysAre Tee’d Up At Fairmont Resorts

Free Golf and Much, Much More!


Fairmont Turnberry Isle

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Hamilton Princess

to golf per adult after one full round; Daily access to gym facilitiesfor two adults.Offer valid through Dec. 31, 2009. Rates start at $651 per room, per night,double occupancy.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Golf “Fore” FreeThe jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper Park Lodge is offering:Luxury accommodations; Up to two complimentary rounds of golfper person, per day.The package is available until October 2009. Rates start at $399, based ondouble occupancy.

Fairmont Orchid, Ultimate Golf PackageLocated on the Big Island in Hawaii, the property is offering guests:Luxury accommodations; Unlimited golf at the neighboring FrancisH. I'i Brown Golf Course per adult, per day (consecutive roundsmay be booked after completion of the first round); Complimentarybreakfast for two adults per day.The Package is valid through December 31, 2009. Rates start at $651 perroom, per night based on double occupancy.

Fairmont Algonquin, Golf “Fore” FreeBlending Old-World charm with modern luxury, this breathtakingTudor-style resort in New Brunswick is offering: Luxury accom-modations; Up to two complimentary rounds of golf per person,per day.Package is available from May 1 until Oct. 15, 2009. Rates start at just $199per night based on double occupancy.

Fairmont Southampton and Fairmont Hamilton Princess,Bermuda 400th Anniversary Ultimate Tee Time Package2009 is the 400th anniversary of the founding of Bermuda. Tocelebrate, these to exceptional resorts are offering: Luxuryaccommodations with private balcony; $400 resort credit to useduring the stay; Unlimited daily golf on the FairmontSouthampton Golf Course or one round, per day, per person atnearby Riddell’s Bay Golf Course.The package requires a four-night minimum stay and is available until August21st 2009. Rates start at $439 per night based on double occupancy.

Fairmont Scottsdale, Fourth Night FreeLocated in Scottsdale, Arizona, this AAA Five-Diamond property isoffering guests: Pay for three nights’ accommodation and get thefourth night free; Four rounds of golf on the TPC ScottsdaleStadium Course, host site of the PGA Tour FBR Open.The package is available until Dec. 31, 2009. Rates start at $1,559 per per-son, double occupancy.

Fairmont Acapulco Princess and Fairmont Pierre Marques,Acapulco Golf PackageIn breathtaking Acapulco, Mexico, these two exceptional resortsare offering: Pay for three nights’ accommodation and get thefourth night free; Pay for three rounds of golf and get the fourthround free.This offer is valid until Dec. 21st, 2009. Rates start at just $214 per night basedon double occupancy.

Geoff Ogilvy didn’t stare long, but he scanned thestark Sonoran Desert landscape of Marana, justnorth of Tucson. He saw a forest of giantsaguaros and the rocky, rugged, dry TortolitaMountains rising on a perfect, sunny 80-degreeArizona day.

It was Sunday of the 2009 World Golf Championship-Accenture Match Play, a two-round marathon with Paul Casey onMarch 1. His concentration was steely.

When his eyes reverted back to the rolling, curving puttingsurfaces of the Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed Ritz Carlton GolfClub, Dove Mountain, he didn’t aim for the flag on his 40-footputt at the sixth green. He zeroed in on a spot some 45 feet leftand his circuitous putt arched and twisted over a ridge, endingthree feet right of its goal.

Ogilvy, drew prowess from feeling at home, perhaps. He playedmany greens like this on the sand-belt layouts around Melborne inhis native Australia. He’d also had a bounty of experience on thecourses of Scotland, where golfers grow up keeping approaches onthe ground and learning how to read contours, bumps and humps.Those who aim for the flag are disappointed countless times.

Two days after Ogilvy hoisted the trophy at Dove Mountainmy college roommate and I were staring down the same fairwayswhere crowds watched Tiger Woods’ much anticipated returnafter knee surgery.

Not that the greater Tucson, Arizona area really needs anymore golf courses, but The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, DoveMountain, Nicklaus’ first area design in 25 years, is simply desertrugged and visually stunning.

“Stunning,” however, is different from being stunned once youtry to two-putt on these contoured, multi-level, tricky greens. Ifyou watched the telecast you heard PGA Tour player Paul Azingerconstantly talk about how they had to slow down the greensbecause of the contours. Finalist Casey said if the greens wereregular tournament speed they would be unputtable.

But why play golf unless you want to be challenged? If youhaven’t figured out that Nicklaus designs usually have generousfairways, taxing approaches, and problematic greens with multiplelevels, you probably haven’t played much golf.

The PGA Tour golfers played the Saguaro (3,894 yards) andTortolita (3,955 yards) nines, making it 7,849 yards, the longest par72 on tour. But there’s another nine, Wild Burro, (3,897 yards)

On The Road InTucson:

Loews Ventana Canyon

16 GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009

which is Nicklaus’ favorite, and one he originally thought would beincluded in the tournament.

“Having rolled in a long putt on the first hole, I came back toreality as the three-putt monster grabbed me on more than onehole, reminding me to stay focused,” said Gary McWilliams, a SanAntonio physician. “A forecaddie is a must here, and you'll bethankful when you realize he saved you five to six strokes. Abeautiful clubhouse serves as the backdrop.”

So if you are planning a golf vacation to Tucson keep this onein mind. It also includes the Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain, thatwill boast 250 lavish guest rooms, including 24 individual casitarooms and The Ritz-Carlton Club Level and suites, all offeringviews of the expansive desert terrain, the Jack Nicklaus SignatureGolf Course or mountain vistas. All of the guest facilities reflectthe local landscape, hues and cultures featuring natural elementsof stone, wood, fire and stars.

PGA Tour Not New To TucsonAnother must stop for Tucson golf is the Omni Tucson National

(Ogilvy bunked here and won the 2005 Tucson Open here), wherea $92 million renovation has this hotel exceptional again.

The long-standing Catalina Course, 7,262 yards, par 73, hometo the Tucson Open and Chrysler Open for 30 years, is a parklandbeauty with push-up greens. All the greats of the game starting inthe 1960s have walked these fairways, and in 2005 the resortopened the Sonoran Course, designed by 2006 Ryder Cup captain

Tom Lehman. It is a desert style layout with steep elevationchanges and some unusual uphill/downhill shot opportunities nottypically found in Tucson.

Old-timers have lots of stories of the days when Johnny Miller,Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Bob Charles, Miller Barber andLee Trevino played here. One remembered a day when membersrealized they knew better than to try to hustle a hustler.

"Lee Trevino was on the first tee during one of the practicerounds of the Tucson Open," said former head pro Bob Klewin,"and I called him over to tell him there was a group of membersbetting the pros that they couldn't reach the par-4, 438-yard firsthole in two. Well, you know Trevino, he was famous for hustling inhis younger days in Dallas. Lee went over to the members andtold him he'd gladly take that bet. Not one member was foolishenough to accept the challenge."

La Paloma Country ClubSo what was that design Nicklaus did some 25 years ago? That

is La Paloma Country Club with its three demanding nines – Hill(3,63 yards), Ridge (3,554 yards) and Canyon (3,534 yards, all par36). It includes a luxurious Westin Hotel and target, elevationchanging golf, once thought of as the toughest layout in town.

“I liked the third hole on the Canyon nine,” said TexanMcWilliams,” it is a demanding par three that plays about 10 yardslonger (178 yards) than the scorecard indicates, with a steep, deeprocky slope just in front of the green. Any ball that comes up short is

by David R. Holland

Play Where The Pros Tee It Up

Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain La Paloma Country Club

GOL F VA C AT IO N S • EA R LY SUM M E R 2009 17

best donated to those brave enough to walk the canyon. It's also easyto see why the seventh hole is the number one handicap hole (445yards) as a well struck drive still leaves you about 180 yards uphill to agreen protected by a hungry trap that catches anything hit short.”

Loews Ventana CanyonThe Mountain (6,898 yards, par 72) and Canyon (6,836 yards,

par 72) courses of Ventana Canyon are bumped up against theCatalina Mountains, and these foothills acres produces some quickand tricky greens. It is an unspoiled location with a luxuriousresort hotel of 398 rooms, a jogging course, nature and bikingtrails, two pools, lighted tennis courts and spa. Don’t miss diningat the Flying V Bar & Grill, a Southwestern steakhouse that over-looks the 18th hole, a cascading water and city lights.

Tom Fazio designed the courses and you won’t forget theMountain Course’s third hole, a par-three 107-yarder nicknamed“Hole in the Wall” by Fazio. It is one of the most photographedholes west of the Mississippi. The Canyon Course snakesthrough the rugged beauty of Esperro Canyon and incorporatesthe massive rock formation known as Whaleback Rock, situatedbeside the 10th green.

Arizona NationalFormerly The Raven at Sabino Springs, Arizona National,

6,785 yards, par 71, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., has hostedvarious collegiate golf tournaments over the years as the homecourse of the Arizona Wildcats golf team. The 18th, a reachablepar 5 with a tee box perched some 200 feet above the green, isamong the state's best finishing holes at 513 yards downhill.

“You need to know where your drives are going because there isalmost always 75 to 100 yards from the tee box to the fairway,”McWilliams said. “I particularly liked No. 5 (518-yard par five) withthe red, white and blue "A" across the pond from the green and thefinal hole is a nice finish with a great downhill view of the fairwayand city. It’s also fun when your good friend floats his long approachover the water for a great shot at an eagle on the 18th hole.”

The Golf Club at VistosoTom Weiskopf fans will like his Vistoso layout (6,935 yards, par

72) that recently replaced its greens with the new small-bladeBermuda. This one has great mountain views, yucca, mesquite,saguaros, deep arroyos, wide fairways, and multi-tiered greens.Golf Digest voted it the best golf course in Tucson in 1999. Water

Stone Canyon ClubArizona National Golf Club

is in play on only one hole, No. 8, a 389-yard, par four. This is anexperience for the senses, don’t forget the camera.

Stone Canyon ClubMoving to Tucson? Just minutes from Vistoso is my recom-

mendation for the best private layout in the area -- Stone Canyon,a 7,317-yard, par 72, designed by Jay Morrish.

“If ever a name fits a course, this is it,” said McWilliams.“Stones and boulders frame picturesque canyons of lush greenfairways that terminate at demanding greens. From an elevatedtee on the par-three sixth hole, the green seems to sit atop aperch, with waterfalls to the left and a collecting pond short andright. This course has a fun 19th hole at 107 yards to help settlethose pesky all even matches, or even better to give you an oppor-tunity to go double or nothing.”

Tucson resort golf is not cheap, but I find myself wanting tocome back here year after year. The natural beauty of Arizona ison display here. Check out the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museumand you will learn why this is one of the most special places onearth. It is like nothing you have ever seen. Try it. You will agree.

David R. Holland is a former sportswriter for

The Dallas Morning News and author of The Colorado Golf Bible.

WHERE TO STAY

Hilton El Conquistador, Tucson www.hiltonelconquistador.com; 800-325-7832

Omni Tucson National Resort & Spa, Tucsonwww.tucsonnational.com; 520-297-2271

Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain, Maranawww.ritzcarlton.com; 520-572-8000

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson loewsventanacanyon.com; 520-299-2020

WHERE TO PLAY

Arizona National Golf Club, Tucsonarizonanationalgolfclub.com; 520-749-3636

Golf Club at Vistoso, Tucsonvistosogolf.com; 877-548-1110

Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa, Tucson tucsonnational.com; 520-297-2271

La Paloma Country Club, Tucsonlapalomacc.com; 520-299-1500

Stone Canyon Club, Oro Valleystonecanyon.com; 877-219-9100 (private club, play onlywith invitation from a member or prospective members)

Saguaro #3 at Dove Mountain

Amelia Island Plantation Was Green Before Kermit The Frog

on Was Green Before Kermit The Frog

by David R. Holland

melia Island Plantation, FLWhen Jack Healan, president of Amelia IslandPlantation, says the resort was green beforeKermit the Frog, one has to investigate.

What he’s saying is Amelia IslandPlantation is a golf playground that even anenvironmentalist could love.

Just 20 minutes north of Jacksonville, fivemiles south of the Georgia border, and situatedon the southern tip of Amelia Island, this is aspot in American history that is rich. The firstinhabitants were the Timucuan Indians, datingback to 2000 B.C. White men arrived in 1562lead by Jean Ribault, a Huguenot Frenchmanand no doubt the basket of berries the Indiansgreeted the French with were organically grown.

Today, this is a sprawling campus of 1,300acres thick with vegetation and trees, restau-rants, a spa, hotel, and condos. And the threeand a half miles of Atlantic Ocean beachmakes for some special golf holes and oceanscenery from various accommodations.

But the greening of Amelia IslandPlantation starts with the properties’ four golfcourses -- Amelia River, Long Point, Oak Marshand Ocean Links – they are all AudubonSanctuary certified courses. That means birdsand critters appreciate Amelia Island Plantation,too. It is a grassland habitat, with marsh andcreek sanctuaries, and massive protected dunes

A


running along the ocean. Golf Digest took notice and named theresort to its Top 10 Green Golf Resorts of America list in 2008.

“We have focused on being in harmony with nature since ourfounding in 1971,” said Healan. “Our environmental record isunusually strong and our company’s “Green Team” has moved itto an even higher level for the environment, the resort and ourisland as a whole.”

Amelia Island Plantation, Florida’s premier island resort, covers1,350 live oak-canopied acres in northeast Florida, just 29 milesfrom Jacksonville International Airport. With 3 1⁄2 miles of wideuncrowded beach, 72 holes of championship golf, 49,000-plussquare feet of meeting and convention space, a two-tiered threepool Beach Club, 10 dining outlets, 23 tennis courts, state-of-the-art health and fitness center, award-winning Kids’ Camp Amelia,and much more.

Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Programestablishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to con-serve natural resources and prevent pollution. As reward for desig-nation, the state is recommending designated properties in theFlorida Green Lodging Program to companies and trade organiza-tions seeking environmentally conscious lodging and conventionfacilities. With the addition of Amelia Island Plantation, the pro-gram has more than 173 designated properties and more than 335applicants.

What else does the resort do to claim eco-friendly attriubutes?• Amelia Island Plantation uses reclaimed, or gray water to irri-gate its courses and its landscaping. • There’s resort-wide recycling in all of its food, beverage, lodg-ing and office venues.• It uses of biodegradable chemicals for pest extermination andplant fertilization.• It uses only green-friendly lighting and printing.• It also uses disposable corn- and potato-based containers forcarry-out products.

One can even hop aboard Segways to explore the many trails ofthe resort, and in the future they will be geared for golf bags, andwill make your trek around the golf courses something that israrely done today.

The golf at Amelia Island Plantation is scenic and formidable.Pete Dye designed Oak Marsh, a 6,580-yard par 72, that darts inand through corridors of Spanish moss-covered oaks and slashpines, forces you to carry the dangerous marsh bumped up againstcontoured greens, and then takes you out to the ocean, where thebreezes can make you think about club selection.

Amelia Island Plantation claims its seven seaside holes aremore than any other Florida resort that play directly on the ocean.Water comes into play on 14 holes, and an accurate short game isrequired to hit numerous bulkhead greens.

When you arrive at the 16th, a par-three island green withDye’s traditional railroad-tie bulkheads, you might be thinking ofhis TPC Stadium Course and its 17th island green less than anhour south in Ponte Vedra Beach.

Backwater Fishing

Segway Bridge at Amelia Island Plantation

Horseback Riding on the Beach


I arrived at the tee just as a fisherman was walking to the inletleft and behind the green, where he said redfish were awaitinghim that day. It also reminded me of the 12th, a par-three 193-yard carry over the marsh.

Most first-timers look at Ocean Links’ scorecard that says6,108 yards, par 70, and think of personal bests. But this BobbyWeed design with Dye is tight and difficult. Since there are sixpar-three holes, the length is a bit deceiving.

Prevailing winds and narrow fairways also add to its difficulty,but you will be admiring the five holes that include views of theAtlantic Ocean. Nos. 4 through 5 on the front nine and 15 and 16on the back nine take you right up to the sand dunes and withinsmelling distance of the ocean. Ten other holes feature marshesand lagoons and finishes with a 135-yard par three whose green isplaced strategically in the middle of Red Maple Lake.

Dye’s design elements have always reflected nature preserva-tion and Oak Marsh is no exception. Appropriately named for itslocation under the centuries-old Live Oaks and tall pines, throughserpentine marshlands and lush forest, the 6,500-yard par 72 OakMarsh has earned the reputation as the most demanding course atAmelia. Water comes into play on 14 holes, and an accurate shortgame is required to hit numerous bulkhead greens. Oak Marsh’spar-four eighth is typical Dye, challenging players to cross twotidal creeks before reaching the raised narrow green. The 441-yard sixteenth is an ideal layout for the novice and presents themore skilled golfer with a tantalizing risk-reward proposition, con-fronting each player’s skill level.

Designed by Tom Fazio, Long Point is actually a private lay-out, but you can get access if you are staying at the resort. It windsthrough marshland, natural dune ridges, and catches views of theIntracoastal Waterway, known as Nassau Sound. Long Point hasbeen noted as one of the "Top Twenty Courses in Florida" and hasbeen ranked fifth in the state by the Miami Herald. Rolling out to6,702 yards at par 72, the 18 holes include protective 50-foot talldunes, natural waste bunkers, large contoured greens and distinc-tive back-to-back oceanfront par-threes. Eight forced carries overwater also make you back off and make a solid swing. Manybelieve its signature hole is classic Fazio – a 540-yard par fivewinding between numerous deep, narrow bunkers. Putting sur-faces have been upgraded to new TifEagle Bermuda grass, theleading greens turf used on new courses today in the southeast,providing outstanding color, smoothness and the opportunity forstimpmeter quickness.

Long Point is also home to the Amelia Island Plantation GolfAcademy led by Ed Bowe, director of ESPN’s Golf School instruc-tors. The Academy offers one-on-one instruction to golfers ofevery skill level by PGA professionals under the direction of Boweand includes unlimited range balls. The school focuses on long-term development and improvement of the golfer's game.

Amelia River Golf Club, the newest addition to the AmeliaIsland Plantation Resort's portfolio, is located just three milesfrom the resort’s main entrance and could be the best-conditionedcourse in the area with smooth TifEagle greens. After playingthrough the tight fairways of Oak Marsh, Ocean Links and LongPoint, you will welcome the wider fairways, but still see a course

The Amelia Inn at Amelia Island Plantation


sculpted through a forest of southern pines, live oaks, Sabal palms,and wax myrtles. The first hole is located next door to theFernandina Beach Municipal Airport, as are holes five and 13.The final hole ends at the edge of the Amelia River and its expan-sive tidal marsh -- it is 550 yards strength and brainpower -- forc-ing you to lay up or negotiate a huge ravine on your second shot.And then the green is tucked left of all that earlier trouble.

Tom Jackson designed this par 72 that is 6,823 yards long withundulating fairways, tricky bunkers and a par-three at number 17that will make you take a big breath. Yep, here's that TPCSawgrass replica again, the one with the bulkheads and watereverywhere. But instead of hitting 130 yards like the pros do, thisone is 164 from the back tees.

The Amelia Island Plantation tennis program has been recog-nized as one of the finest resort tennis programs in the world,offering a variety of tournaments and facilities that cater to thewhole family and every level of play. With 23 Har-Tru® fast-dryclay courts shaded beneath live oaks in a beautiful Florida tennissetting, guests can enjoy day or night play. Teaching pros provideexcellent individual tennis or group instruction, and utilize ballmachines that provide topspin lobs to shots down the center line.

So besides superior golf, tennis, spa, wedding opportunities,nightlife, conference facilities, real estate and countless outdoorsactivities, Amelia Island Plantation is proud of the attitude thatpermeates the island. Dining is memorable at The Falcon's Nestor a nightcap at the Amelia Lobby Lounge.

“When we see people, they’re happy,” said Joe Wise, anAmelia golf ranger. "I love it when folks come in from all over thecountry to meet up here. They play like 1,000 holes of golf, andthey’re fun to watch because they’re yukkin’ it up, reliving theircollege days, hitting the bar afterwards and just enjoying theirdays gone by and their present days. It is always such a pleasantexperience to watch and almost be a part of it.”

That seems to be a theme here at Amelia Island Plantation -- slowto a snail's pace or race to 1,000 holes of golf. But it is always fun.

Amelia Island Plantation6800 First Coast Highway • Amelia Island, FL 32034

(866) 213-8045 • (888) 261-6161 • www.aipfl.com

Family Dining at Amelia Island Plantation

Oak Marsh Hole #16 at Amelia Island Plantation

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New Mexico, known as the Land ofEnchantment, will dazzle visitorswith its rich history of Indian and

Hispanic cultures, its spectacular array ofcolorful landscapes and some stunningmountain ranges.

Now it has another enticement that isdrawing attention, not only locally, but fromall over the globe.

It is the Black Mesa Golf Club, whichhas been gathering national acclaim sinceits inception in 2002. Golf Digest ranked itas the third best course in the state and No.55 among America's Greatest PublicCourses. Golf Magazine pegged it at No. 35among the top 100 courses in American youcan play. Golfweek calls it the second bestcourse in the state.

Located in Espanola, which is about a30-minute drive from Santa Fe, Black Mesais in the heart of the Santa Clara IndianPueblo, one of New Mexico's 19 pueblos.

When approaching the course fromState Road 399, the first thing one noticesare the hills and valleys which appear to bedraped by ribbons of lime-green carpet.Sprouting up from within and around arethe purple, red, gold and blue hues fromthe many species of desert flora. Risingabove the ground are many colorful sand-

stone rock formations.There is no majestic opening to the site

like many of the world-class resort golfcourses being built today. There is a sign atthe modest entrance and a dusty road thatwinds its way to a dirt parking lot next to thecart barn.

The small clubhouse and grill room sitatop a hill next to a creaky windmill thatspins noisily most afternoons, warning youof the kind of wind to expect.

Nothing, however, can prepare youfor the majestic beauty of the course thatwill unfold before your eyes 18 wonder-ful times.

“That's my baby,” says Eddie Peck, theproud owner of the course which haspanoramic views of the Sangre De Christoand Jemez mountain ranges as well as thebadlands of New Mexico. The most promi-nent view, however, is a rock formation inthe distance known as the Black Mesa, fromwhich the course got its name..

“Baxter Spann designed the course anddid a wonderful job,” Peck said. “It is every-thing we could have asked for and more.”

Spann didn't need to move much dirtwhen he routed the course. He only had tomove about 200,000 cubic yards in carvingout the 18 holes.

One unique feature of the design isthat no consecutive holes run in the samedirection. It's just pure golf with no visualdistractions.

When asked if the course had a signa-ture hole, one that would stand out abovethe others, one that would be used exclu-sively to market the course, Peck thoughtfor a moment and said, “You know, therereally isn't one single hole like that. Thereare a lot of holes that stand out.”

Peck is correct. Each hole has its owndistinctive feature. All have breathtakingviews. Some have blind or semi-blind teeshots depending on the tee you play, othersforce you to decide whether to try to drivethe green or play to a safe lay-up place inthe fairway. Some of the par-fives are reach-able in two but can leave you scratchingyour head if you spray your tee shot.

The four par-three holes are distinc-tive because they each play in differentdirections.

The greens are quite undulating, butfair because the speed of the greens stillallow a player to charge a putt without fearof the ball rolling too far past the hole. Thegreens are also large, providing ample tar-gets for iron shots, but you have to land inthe right spot to leave yourself makeable


by Fred Robledo

putts. Some of the longer putts can haveseveral breaks.

The fairways have humps and bumpsand wind seamlessly through the beautifulcanyons and desert.

Bunkers? Of course. There are 105 ofthem and they all are shaped by the existingcontour of the land. They remind you of thelinks courses in Scotland and Ireland wherethe bunkers are part of the natural land,created to give animals relief from the wind.

The good news is there is no out ofbounds. You miss the fairway and you canwander through desert to find your ball.

The bad news is there are rattlesnakesin much of the desert, so beware.

The course measures 7,307 yards fromthe tips and can be played as short as 5,157yards, but the key to enjoying a round is toselect the proper tee. At an altitude of5,400 feet, one must calculate about 10percent more distance on solidly struckshots. You also have to factor in roll on thefirm fairways.

There are decisions to be made on near-ly every hole.

From the first tee, you can see the halfof the fairway winding left toward thegreen. The left side is protected by anarroyo. There is small hill that blocks the

view of the right and center of the fairway.The perfect tee shot is aimed over the lowerthird of the hill.

From the safety of the fairway comesanother decision if the pin is tucked onthe left side because that means you haveto hit your shot over the corner of thearroyo to land on the green. Come upshort and you are in the arroyo. Hit it a lit-tle long and you can wind up is someheavy rough behind the green. When thewind swirls, as it often does, you must cal-culate how much the wind is going tomove your ball in the air.

From the blue tees, the 319-yard sev-enth hole and the 340-yard fourteenth holeare reachable for long hitters. But rockcroppings and bunkers make attempting todrive the holes a dangerous play. Thegreens are large enough to reward well-struck shots but danger abounds if a drive ispulled or pushed.

The 16th hole is called the Stairway toSeven because although it only plays 494yards from the blues, it is all uphill toplateaus, narrow, and filled with trouble onboth sides. One bad shot will result in adouble or worse.

The finishing hole is a dogleg right toan angled fairway. A deep arroyo is on

the right side of the fairway and youmust decide how much of the dogleg youthink you can cut to get you closer to thegreen. It is a great way to finish a coursethat is certain to make you feel like youwant to try it again.

BLACK MESA GOLF CLUB


ABOUT THE COURSE:• Public Golf Course• 7,307 Yards• Par 72• 74 Rating• 141 Slope• Multi-level driving range

with 7 target greens• Short game practice area

with green and bunkers• Two practice putting greens• Gas carts with GPS systems• Pro shop offering club fitting• Clubhouse Bar & Grill

with panoramic patio views

RATES:• $87 on weekends, includes cart• $82 on weekdays, includes cart• $55 twilight, includes cart


MYTURN

byBrandonTuckerWorldGolf.com

ST. ANDREWS, Scotland - Hitting a few practiceputts beside the first tee of the Old Course in St.Andrews, I can barely focus on the stroke.

My mind keeps wandering back to that damn shot: Oct.28, 2006.

In fact, practically every time someone asks me aboutthe Old Course, a nightmarish vision of that ugly, pathet-ic excuse for a tee ball on the first hole resurfaces.

On a calm, sunny October afternoon, with scores ofonlookers, from R & A brass in their sport coats toJapanese tourists behind their video cameras, my teeshot off the first flew so far right it went over the whitefence and practically onto the West Sands beach.

I'm a single-digit handicap and I missed the widest fair-way in golf. It wasn't even close.

The member I was with wouldn't even let me hit anoth-er tee ball. I had to drop a ball in the fairway. My scorewas officially bogus without finishing one hole.

I walked down about 220 yards, dropped a ball by thefence and bladed a 5-iron dead left and into the burn. Ifished my ball out with the embarrassingly large metalretriever, then gave the ball right back to the burn witha chunked wedge.

I walked off the first hole DQ'd, but gave myself a "10"for good measure. Then on the second, I blasted mydrive right into the gorse.

So much for the "Left is right, right is wrong" adviceon the Old.

Fast forward to the present. I'm on the practice greenwaiting to get paired up as a single, but my head is on acontinuous swivel toward the starter's hut. Havingplayed the new Castle Course in the morning, it's closeto 4 p.m. now, and I fear my window for a full 18 holesis shrinking on this late April day.

Minutes later, the starter finally emerges from his shack andtells me two Swedes have agreed to let me play with them.

Finally, I've got a shot at my ghosts.

I decide to let my partners, who were playing the Old forthe first time, go first. Peter, a kid who can't be more thana year or two out of college, stepped up to the tee. A 4-handicap, he gave a quick swing to the ball, which causeda hook that barely made it off the ground and scootedacross the 18th fairway, settling just a few feet from thewhite fence that separates the course from the road.

For some reason, this horrible shot from a good playercalmed me down. I walked up to the tee swelling withconfidence for some reason. Suddenly I felt like a mem-ber who'd played this shot a thousand times.

My hands still feeling a little too light for my liking, I pickedout a point in the distance on the left side of the fairway.

"Slooooooooow" I told myself in my backswing - and toswing through the ball toward my target on the follow-through. I looked up and the ball was in the air with a lit-tle fade, landing smack dab in the middle. I picked up mytee and strutted down the fairway like it was no sweat.Inside, I felt like I had just solved the stock market.

It didn't matter that I botched my approach shot and fin-ished the first with a bogey; I had stepped up to the firsttee and knocked one right down the middle like a griz-zled member.

Next up: The Road HoleI had one other ghost to slay that day: my tee shot on theRoad Hole 17th, which I blasted off the Old CourseHotel O.B. last time around. This time, I aimed especial-ly left, as wind was blowing balls straight to the right, andhit it safely into the left rough, like an OpenChampionship leader protecting a two-shot lead.

Though I had slain my two ghosts, a few more surfaced,like a slice on No. 9 into the gorse (causing a doublebogey), and an idiotic layup that landed inches awayfrom the Hell Bunker that didn't give me a stance on theball (you don't want to fall in about 10 feet).

So that's all the more reason to start thinking about howI can get back to the Old Course just one more time...

Road to Golf Redemption: Conquering Ghosts at the Old Course in St. Andrews

Mon-Fri

$40 Standard

$30 Twilight

SUMMER RATES THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25

Sat-SunHolidays

$45 Standard$35 Twilight

DESTINATIONS WHERE TO STAY • WHERE TO PLAY

Southern California


SUMMER RATES THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25

© 2009 ClubCorp USA, Inc. 2/09 CLB-2911a, SC

As a Golf Vacations Magazine subscriber, you are invited to receive a preferred invitation for golf membership at Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club.

• Enjoy 36 holes of championship golf• Extensive practice facilities• Our new spa and sports club • 10 lighted tennis courts• Active tennis leagues and programs• Swimming pools• A full schedule of social and dining events

Limited Memberships available. To find out more about Membership, please call the Membership office

949.858.4100

25291 Vista del Verde Coto de Caza, CA 92679www.coto-de-caza.com

You Don’t Have to Live Here to Play Here...

As a special invitation to experience the Spa at Coto de Caza, please call 949-858-2790 to reserve your

50-minute Swedish massage plus 50-minute deep cleansing facial for only $120. (Just call and mention this postcard.)

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