golf vacations magazine february 2014

www.golfvacationsmag.com Golf Vacations • February 2014 1

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GOLF VACATIONSGOLF VACATIONSFEBRUARY 2014

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Plus: GOLF, GUINNESS AND GLORIOUS WEATHERPlus: GOLF, GUINNESS AND GLORIOUS WEATHER

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2 Golf Vacations • February 2014 www.golfvacationsmag.com


GOLF VACATIONSGOLF VACATIONSFEBRUARY 2014

The stunning 17th at St Helens Bay Golf Club in Ireland

8 Healthy Game by Terry Ross Enjoyment of the game of golf—especially as one gets older---normally follows along the lines of maintaining a functional fitness level and spending more time and effort in preparing the body for handling the twists and torqueing required in the golf swing and moving around the golf course.

12 La Cantera Hill Country Resort by David R. HollandThe land was deemed “hilly, rocky and valueless” in 1840, when Horace Beall, a private and physician in the Republic of Texas Army, was deeded the hilltop land that is now part of the La Cantera Hill Country Resort.

16 Golf, Guinness and Glorious Weather by Clive AgranIreland is undoubtedly one of the very best countries in the world in which to play golf. The scenery is spectacular, the roads are un-crowded, the Guinness is plentiful and the people are incredibly friendly.

18 Charleston, South Carolina by JD LatorreHome to 19 championship golf courses and 60 miles of pristine coastline, the Charleston area paints the perfect picture for pairing water sports with the sport of golf. The area’s seaside courses offer endless opportunities for players to cruise the waterway and the fairway in the same day.

22 Hot Golf Travel Geat for 2014 by JD Latorre


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

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

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

Executive EditorJeffrey Diaz

Associate EditorTerry Ross

Features EditorLarry Feldman

Senior WritersJD Latorre

Andy ReistetterFred Robledo

For Editorial:call (760) 774-2655

e-mail: [email protected]

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Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801

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Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500

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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS

Clive “Silky Swing” Agran rather immodestly describes himself as ‘the most gifted golf writer either side of the Urals’. His sports writing career began in 1989 when he joined Eurosport. He then joined Screensport and produced a program called ‘The Golf Report’. His immensely popular ‘Single Figures or Bust’ series in Golf Monthly both reduced his handicap and raised his profile. Said to have more columns than the Parthenon, his whimsical musings and sparkling travel features can be read in a number of publications including Golf International, Golf Monthly, Golf World, Today’s Golfer and Golf News.


HEALTHYGAME by TERRYROSS

Enjoyment of the game of golf—especially as one gets older---normally follows along the lines of maintaining a

functional fitness level and spending more time and effort in preparing the body for handling the twists and torqueing required in the golf swing and moving around the golf course.

Dr. Jenni Martin, who has been in the medical, fitness and health profession for more than 30 years, has taken her unique and varied background in both medicine and golf and developed a program called the Golf Gapper to help players to understand how their body reacts to various physical demands of the game and give them actual customized feedback on what they need to do to stay fit and healthy, which translates to better performance and most important—increased enjoyment in playing the game.

She has also combined her fitness evaluation program--that utilizes her expertise of bio-mechanics, injury rehab, LPGA teaching and fitness training, chiropractic training, Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) fitness evaluations, 3D K-vest (Kinematic Sequencing animation), two Doppler Radar units, Swing Catalyst balance plates, high-speed video and training aid--into a mobile unit that can be moved from golf club to golf club. This saves the host institution upwards of $100,000 in set-up costs yet provides a state-of-the-art facility for clubs and a sure-fire amenity for its members on the club’s driving range, which is also utilized for the sessions.

“This is a win-win for private clubs,” says Dr. Martin. “Clubs can now offer the ‘full team’ approach that most high level clubs utilize for their members, saving them set-up costs and space. And golfers are wowed by the information I give them, as it truly helps them become better players while minimizing future injuries.”

Dr. Martin outlines a personalized plan for each golfer that encompasses golf fitness, injury prevention and rehab, exercise and swing development during the three-hour evaluation session. She concentrates on players 50 and older—and many are in their 60s and playing with various ailments and physical limitations.

“I try to create an understanding of what you can do to counter the age related changes in the body and create an efficient, pain free swing,” added Dr. Martin.

Martin claims the golfers describe the process as “fun and game changing,” as they are able to take advantage of the latest science and knowledge in health and bio mechanics. “You have to see it, feel it, understand it and be able to physically do it, in order to make

meaningful, pain free and lasting improvement in the game of golf.”

Understanding an individual’s goals, physical needs, limitations, body and swing, Dr. Martin believes, is the only way to make permanent, goal-oriented, and effective swing changes and improvements. Martin’s method is fun, entertaining and informative. She will work directly with a golfer’s current coach, medical provider and trainer, if necessary.

One of Dr. Martin’s most effective tools to help players with one of the more important aspects of the game—balance—is something she has developed called the Ground Force Trainer that is used to train golfers in their backswing, where power is developed when the golfer creates ground force with their trailside leg and gluteal muscles. This sensation is difficult to create without an unstable surface.

This training device includes the patent-pending square rotational disk, power pole, DVD, lead leg support foam pad and heightens awareness of strength and muscular awareness to enhance balance.

Square disks are much more effective than round disks here because the square front side gives immediate feedback to the loss of proper muscular and power position of the trail (right side for right-handed golfers) when any movement from front parallel is seen. Seeing any movement from parallel front boards, gives the golfer specific guidance for correction. This creates proper muscular development and motor learning for strength and coil.

“The Ground Force training disks create this instability, causing a specific muscular reaction that exactly mimics the sensation and strength necessary to motor learn the proper load in the back swing and feel the connection with the ground,” said Dr. Martin. “The gluteus medius muscle is responsible for hip rotation and hip stability. These muscles also help the golfer maintain balance. The rotational square disks act similarly to a ‘lazy Susan’ found in the kitchen. They’re used in Pilates to teach exercises that require movement of the lower and upper body in opposite directions, and to exercise the balance muscles.”

During the early part of 2014, Dr. Martin, who is headquartered in Sacramento, will have her Golf Gapper mobile unit on the road for stops in Southern California at the Palms Country Club in La Quinta as well at the Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club in South Orange County, and will be available for sessions by appointment.

For more on Golf Gapper and Dr. Martin’s programs, visit: www.thegolfgapper.com

The Golf Gapper


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSPGA GOLF CLUB UNVEILS 2014 SPRING TRAINING “STAY-AND-PLAY” PACKAGES

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – With pitchers and catchers reporting back to Florida over the next few weeks,

PGA Golf Club – which features 54 holes of championship golf by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye in Port St. Lucie, Fla. – is offering baseball fans and golfers alike a unique Spring Training “Stay-and-Play” package through Mar. 31, 2014.

The offer includes two rounds of golf at PGA Golf Club and three nights of accommodations at the nearby Hilton Garden Inn. Guests also receive a complimentary daily golf clinic ($35 value) at the onsite PGA Center for Golf Learning & Performance – an instruction, practice, technology and fitness golf park that provides the ultimate learning environment for players of all levels. With 100 swing stations and nine bunker types simulating play from around the world, the highly acclaimed facility is an ideal destination to tune up for the 2014 season. In addition, guests can tour the adjacent PGA Museum of Golf with complimentary admission year round to see the four major Championship trophies of golf.

PGA Golf Club is located just three miles from Tradition Field, the Spring Training home of the New York Mets and the summer home of the Class “A” Affiliate St. Lucie Mets. With a short distance between first base and the first tee, this pure golf destination features three diverse, challenging layouts along Florida’s Treasure Coast. With average high temperatures in the mid-to-high 70s during February and March, PGA Golf Club serves as an ideal setting for fans to escape frigid temperatures, as they tee it up in South Florida and cheer on their favorite team.

“PGA Golf Club is one of America’s premier destinations for golfers around the world, with ideal temperatures and course conditions this time of year,” said PGA Golf Club General Manager Jimmy Terry. “Our Spring Training Stay-and-Play package offers an escape from the weather up north, as well as a great opportunity for you to take a buddy trip, a weekend getaway or even a family vacation to combine your passions for golf and baseball into one.”

The Wanamaker Course by Fazio provides a stunning backdrop against breathtaking palm trees and palmettos. His distinct Carolina touch is also evident on the Ryder Course with rolling hills, majestic pines and challenging water hazards. Weaving through 100 acres of wetlands, the Dye Course is a links-style layout with pine straw rough, vast coquina waste bunkers and grass-based bunkers.

The PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance is provides the ultimate learning

environment for players of all levels. With 100 swing stations and nine bunker types simulating play worldwide, the acclaimed facility is an ideal destination to tune up for the 2014 season.

In addition to golf’s most storied trophies, the PGA Museum of Golf features Donald Ross’ workbench from circa 1900; vast Ryder Cup and PGA Championship memorabilia; a tribute to 2013 PGA Champion Jason Dufner; and the PGA Golf Professional Hall of Fame.

PGA Golf Club Spring Training Stay and Play Packages start at $629 per person, with double occupancy at the Hilton Garden Inn. For reservations, call (866) 580-0884 and reference “Mets Spring Training” or visit pgavillage.com/springtraining.com.

For more information on PGA Golf Club and the PGA of America, visit www.pgamediacenter.com.

BAY HILL NAMED TO PRESTIGIOUS CONDE NAST TRAVELER GOLD LIST 2014

ORLANDO, FL – Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge is proud to have been named a recipient of the highly regarded 2014 Condé Nast Traveler Gold List Award. The Gold List is considered to be the authoritative index of the world’s highest ranking hotels, resorts, and cruise lines selected by nearly 70,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers. It is especially exciting to note the service related aspects of the Bay Hill guest experience received a well-deserved 100% ranking. For more information or reservations call (888) 422-9445 or visit www.BayHill.com.

“We are extraordinarily proud to receive this award and be in the company of such highly respected resort destinations throughout the world, shared Ray Easler, Vice President Hospitality and Operations. Our guests consistently rate our amenities and service among the finest in the industry and we are committed to always providing an unforgettable experience. ”

Bay Hill is the winter home of legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, and the host site of the PGA TOUR’s Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard. Visit this link to see the complete story of this treasured destination: History of Bay Hill.

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Orlando, Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge is the site of the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard golf tournament. The 70-room property features 27-holes of golf, the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy, tennis on four Har-tru courts, a full service spa and salon, fitness center, four dining locations, and 9,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space. For reservations or membership information, call (888) 422-9445 or (407) 876-2429.


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTSMISSION INN RESORT & CLUB CELEBRATES WITH50TH ANNIVERSARY GOLF PACKAGE

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, FL – Mission Inn Resort is celebrating a big birthday in 2014 - 50 years of Beucher family ownership and operation. To mark the occasion, a 50th Anniversary Golf Package, pairing the resort’s two award-winning championship golf courses with an overnight stay and generous resort credits, is now available.

Nestled among the rolling hills of Central Florida’s Lake County, Mission Inn Resort & Club is in the town of Howey-in-the-Hills, just a 35 minute drive northwest of Orlando. In addition to golf, the Spanish colonial style resort offers 190 graciously appointed guestrooms, suites and villas, three restaurants, two lounges and poolside bar.

Mission Inn’s 50th Anniversary Golf Package includes:

Club Suite accommodations18 holes of golf daily, with shared cartRange balls, club storage, advance tee

timesBreakfast buffet following each night’s stay$50 credit to use toward dinner each night$50 total credit per person in the Golf ShopCommemorative gift itemPackage rates, which range from $260

to $310 depending on the dates of stay, are per person, per night and based on double occupancy with a two-night minimum.

Mission Inn’s two championship courses include 36 holes of rare tee-to-green elevations of 85 feet, towering forests and sparkling spring-fed lakes. Revered as one of Florida’s finest, El Campeón (The Champion) was

designed by George O’Neil of Chicago in 1917 and further enhanced in 1926 by Charles E. Clarke of Troon, Scotland. The course is consistently ranked in the top 10 of Florida’s 1,500+ courses. Las Colinas (The Hills), the resort’s second 18-hole layout, was designed by former PGA Tour Player Gary Koch and opened in 1992 to immediate acclaim. Both courses are rated Four Star and recognized as “Best Places to Play” in North America by Golf Digest.

For additional information, call Mission Inn Resort & Club at 800-874-9053 or 352-324-3101 or visit www.missioninnresort.com.

PEBBLE BEACH RESORTS CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW GOLF ACADEMY & PRACTICE FACILITY

PEBBLE BEACH, CA – Pebble Beach Resorts officially opened the new Pebble Beach Golf Academy & Practice Facility on Thursday, January 23, marking the beginning of a new standard for instruction, training and technology for golf destinations around the world. In front of numerous dignitaries, guests and colleagues, Pebble Beach Company Chief Executive Officer Bill Perocchi cut the ceremonial ribbon and welcomed invited guests to tour the new Golf Academy building and practice facility.

“Today marks an important milestone for Pebble Beach Resorts,” said Perocchi during the grand opening event. “We now have a practice facility and golf academy that rivals any in the world, but most importantly, one that is befitting the legendary golf, unparalleled customer service and stunning beauty of Pebble Beach.”

Located across the street from the former Pebble Beach driving range, the new practice

facility features a 350-yard, double-ended driving range with natural grass hitting areas spacious enough to accommodate up to 85 golfers. Nearly twice the size of the old range, the new range also features multiple, sculpted target greens with surrounding bunkers which offer a look and feel to mimic shots found throughout Pebble Beach Golf Links, America’s number one public golf course. A 40,000-square-foot short game complex with bunkers, chipping areas and a 4,500-square foot practice putting green also allows guests an unparalleled venue for perfecting shots on and around the greens.

The Practice Facility is also home to the new 3,000-square-foot Pebble Beach Golf Academy, which features three instruction studios. The Academy boasts some of the most substantial and extensive golf learning and training technology found in one location. From beginners learning the basics to scratch golfers looking to fine tune their game, guests are offered a wide-ranging menu of personalized tools designed not only to lower scores, but to ensure a better experience on the course. These include the revolutionary robotic swing trainer, 3D motion capture system, HD video analysis, computerized putting stroke evaluation and indoor golf simulator. The Academy will also host numerous golf school programs throughout the year, ideal for those players looking to improve their game and experience the legendary golf courses and accommodations at Pebble Beach Resorts.

For more information on the new Pebble Beach Golf Academy & Practice Facility, the new Pebble Beach Golf Schools, or to book individual or group instruction, visit www.pebblebeach.com or call 831-622-8650.

Pebble Beach Golf Academy


GLENEAGLES CAPTURES THE GOLFING SPIRIT OF THE 1920’s WITH NEW HICKORY EXPERIENCE

As it prepares to celebrate its 90th anniversary, Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire, Scotland, has teamed up with Golf & Thistle Ltd to offer visitors the chance to experience golf as it would have been played in 1924.

From now until the end of July, hotel guests and visitors can take to the fairways with hickory clubs to recreate the authentic early 20th century golfing experience on Gleneagles’ PGA National Academy Course. Alternatively, individual and corporate groups can be transported to Fife to play a round on the 9-hole Kingarrock Course, lovingly restored in 2008 for traditional hickory golf.

“As we prepare to celebrate our 90th anniversary and host the Ryder Cup in September,” said Gleneagles Head Professional, Andrew Jowett, “it’s fantastic to be able to give our guests the opportunity to experience golf as it would have been played in the early days of the hotel. It’s an excuse to get out on the course and have a bit of fun – either as a family, or as a team-building activity - and maybe even try some plus fours on for size.”

Hickory golf is available for groups of up to 12 people from about $80 per person, including club hire and green fee on the PGA National Academy Course.

For booking information, contact Gleneagles Resort Sales at US toll-free: 1 866 881 9525 or visit Gleneagles.com

CANADIAN ROCKIES GOLF ANNOUNCES NEW FACES, GOLF EXPERIENCES FOR 2014 SEASON

CANMORE, ALBERTA – Canadian Rockies Golf – the collection of elite mountain golf courses in Banff, Jasper and Canmore – welcomes Gregg Lown as the new Director of Golf at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

Lown brings a wealth of experience to the team, including leadership positions at El Cameleon Golf Course at The Fairmont Mayakoba in Mexico, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler in British Columbia and The Fairmont St Andrews in Scotland.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is ranked the No. 1 resort course in Canada in 2013 by SCOREGOLF. Canadian Rockies Golf Packages with play at the celebrated course start at $309 per person, per night.

For booking information, see canadianrockiesgolf.net or call 855.835.8484.

Silvertip Resort Appoints New Executive Chef

Silvertip Resort will feature the culinary expertise of its new Executive Chef Laura Hansford as it welcomes golfers this spring.

Hansford, who has worked at Silvertip since 2010 as Chef de Partie and Executive Sous Chef, has placed her own stamp on the menus of its famed Rustica Steakhouse and Stoney’s Bar and Grill. Open to the public, both dining venues have consistently been added to “Best Of” lists in Canmore.

Golfers are encouraged to call 1.877.877.5444 for advance reservations.

Make Golf an Adventure with 2014 Vacation Packages

Canadian Rockies Pins & Fins (starting at $1,019) – Perfect for anglers, this trip includes a round of golf at The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course and choice of round at Canmore Golf & Curling Club, Silvertip Resort or Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club, as well as a seven to eight-hour Bow River float and wade fly-fishing trip, and four nights’ accommodations.

Fairmont Open Golf & Spa (starting at $1,159) – Features four nights at The Fairmont Banff Springs, a round of golf at The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course and at either Silvertip Resort or Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club, vehicle pass to Banff National Park and an afternoon at The Fairmont Banff Springs renowned Willow Stream Spa, with a side-by-side couples massage.

For more information please visit www.canadianrockiesgolf.net or call 1.855.835.8484.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS

Gleneagles Golf Professionals Matthew Galley and Cameron Tortolano channel the spirit of the 1920s as they prepare to try their hand at hickory golf. The 1920s golf experience is being launched at Gleneagles to coincide with the resort’s 90th anniversary.


La Cantera Hill Country Resort

Palmer Course #10, Resort in background


By David R. Holland

La Cantera Hill Country Resort


SAN ANTONIO, TX – The land was deemed “hilly, rocky and valueless” in 1840, when Horace Beall, a private and physician in the Republic of Texas Army, was deeded the hilltop land that is now part of the La Cantera Hill Country Resort.

Beall died a year later and had no decendants willing to claim his Boun-ty Warrant of this property, situated in Bexar County on a branch of the Leon Creek, a tributary of the Medina River, 15 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio.

Today as you stand on that hilltop, with the massive La Cantera Hill Country Resort surrounding you, look westerly out and downward across the valley. Your view is Texas golf heaven -- two verdant golf-course gems Beall and Brannon could have never visualized.

Formerly home to the Texas Open, the Resort Course (7,021 yards, par 72) was designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish. The Palmer Course (6,926 yards, par 71) was designed by Arnold himself.

It is one of the highest points in all of San Antonio and the AAA Four-Diamond resort is entering a new era. Effective Dec. 12, 2013 USAA Real Estate Company announced Denver-based Destination Hotels & Resorts is now in charge of management taking over for Westin.

The 1,645 acre master-planned development is comprised of 508 rooms, including 38 casitas. The hotel’s impressive Spanish Colonial architec-ture makes it one of the most beautiful hotels you will ever experience. Check out the limestone elegance, views, amenities and little touches to honor its quarry and Texas heritage.

The Resort CourseLa Cantera, which means “quarry stone” in Spanish, was carved from a limestone quarry and you see evidences of that all during your round at The Resort Course, which was once No. 48 on Golf Magazine’s Top 100 You Can Play List.

“Everyone likes the course for its playability, elevation changes, views and Texas hospitality that you will find in the entire complex,” said Steve Shields, Director of Golf Operations for the Troon Management facility.

“When the Texas Open was played here the PGA Tour wanted a course that could be set up for length and the ability to speed up the greens and make it even more difficult,” Shields said. “But I think the novice can tee it up from a forward tee and have fun here without being too frustrated.”

Opened for play in January 1995, La Cantera’s Resort Course features a climb to the No. 7 tee that rewards the golfers with a view of Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park and an 80-foot perch atop a quarry wall.

Your tee shot can be aimed at the “Rattler” roller coaster and a gener-ous landing area creates a spectacular drive with the hang-time of a pro football punter. The hole is only 316 yards from the back, but there is a bunker square in the middle of the fairway that will gobble up mis-hits. If you fly this trap you only have 100 yards or less, but the approach is to a green guarded by a lake on the right and traps on the front, middle and side.

No. 12 is a 415-yard par-4 with a limestone-rock wall and church-pew


bunkers left. The approach shot is all carry to an elevated green guard-ed by a rocky ravine and running creek. Anything short of the putting surface is not going to go forward, so take enough club.

The Palmer CoursePalmer knew when he first saw the land it was unique for Texas. “The topography of La Cantera exhibits is beautiful and unique,” Palmer said on his first site visit. “The natural beauty includes existing rock out-

croppings, dry creeks, hills and incredible views of San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country.”

The elevation changes, and up-and-down holes, many blind shots, are equal to many mountain layouts.

No. 18, Palmer’s favorite hole, is a memorable view and challenge. It is a 426-yard, par 4 with the tee shot blind, but just aim for the bell tower of the beautiful mission-styled clubhouse. The second shot is an 80-foot drop with lake and waterfall right and terraced landing areas on the steep hill for the average golfers. Only the longest of hitters will be marking down 4s on this hole.

The Palmer Course front nine features the par-3, 183-yard, No. 4 signa-ture hole, which tests you to clear a creek and pond in front and a trick-ling waterfall to the right. The bridge to the green has been dedicated The Winnie Palmer Memorial Bridge, in honor of Palmer’s wife, who died of cancer in 1999.

Two downhill, breathtaking par-3s await on the back nine. No. 13 is 209 from the rear with just a slim shaft of green to drive though. On the left is a limestone cliff, stationed to knock down hooks. On the right is a drop-off of unrecoverable status -- a hill-country ravine, deep and dark.

No. 17 is a beauty, 166 yards downhill with the ground slanting abrupt-ly to the right. The long, narrow green can be a three-putt invitation should the flag be planted right and your tee shot finds the left side of this enormous green.

Resort Course #7

Palmer Course - 18th hole and clubhouse


Ireland is undoubtedly one of the very best countries in the world in which to play golf. The scenery is spectacular, the roads are un-crowded, the Guinness is plentiful and the people are incredibly friendly.

On top of all that, there are far more outstanding courses than the Irish know what to do with and so they’re more than happy to share them with visitors.

Perhaps the only slight downside to playing golf in Ireland is the weather, which can be rather unreliable and is rarely as warm as the welcome visitors receive. The very best of whatever decent weather is going is frequently to be found in and around the south-eastern corner of the country. And so that’s where we headed for what proved to be a truly great week of golf.

Just along the beach from Rosslare Harbour where the ferries from France and Wales dock, is splendid St Helen’s Bay Golf Resort. A glorious seaside course that takes full advantage of its splendid location right on the coast with some simply breath-taking holes by the water’s edge, magnificent views and an almost ever-

present breeze to make a truly challenging course even more excit-ing. With numerous tropical trees carefully sited, the occasional historic wall built during the famine to provide work for the unem-ployed and a sprinkling of attractive water hazards, the course provides plenty of visual appeal.

Just along the coast there’s a real gem which those with a real feel for golf’s rich heritage will certainly enjoy. Rosslare Links is a genuine links’ course from the tips of its sizeable tees, through its fast and undulating fairways to its wonderfully true but tricky greens.

Blessed with all the authentic characteristics of golf amongst the dunes including tough bunkers, springy turf and the occasional unpredictable bounce, it’s tough enough that even the soothing sound of the surf won’t entirely settle your nerves.

In between rounds you should take a little time and enjoy some of the delights that Ireland has to offer away from the course. It seems you’re never far from a castle and the historic towns of Wex-ford and Kilkenny offer much in the way of entertainment.

Golf, Guinness and Glorious Weather

Knightsbrook is a top quality course not too far from Dublin


Golf, Guinness and Glorious WeatherFishing is a popular sport and the Irish love their horses, par-

ticularly if they finish in front. And whatever you do it’s more or less compulsory to enjoy a pint or two afterwards.

Right on the edge of town you’ll find the enormously attrac-tive Wexford golf club. With plenty of elevation and no shortage of big boulders to punctuate the scenery, there’s much to admire about this well-maintained and appealing course.

The Irish, of course, make their own rules and it takes a brave man to argue with them as they’re as good with words as they are at golf. Quite a few of the members genuinely believe Carlow Golf Club is a links course even though it’s a good way from the sea.

With its fascinating dips and hollows, you can easily see what they mean even if you don’t necessarily go along with everything they tell you. As a general principle in Ireland, it’s not altogether a bad thing to be a little sceptical.

For example, we were told we wouldn’t struggle around Cal-lan golf club but we did as it’s a lot tougher than it at first appears.

A lovely parkland course with some truly outstanding holes it com-fortably won the day.

We travelled quite a long way north for our final round. But it was well worth the effort as Knightsbrook Hotel and Golf Resort is right up there with the very best. Close to the historic town of Trim and the beautiful River Boyne, it’s a joyous parkland course that leads you through what was once evidently a truly impressive estate and former home of Jonathan Swift, who wrote Gulliver’s Travels.

The specimen trees and lovely lakes have helped create an atmospheric setting for what is a top quality course.

Clive traveled to the South East & Midlands of Ireland with Club Choice Ireland, an Alliance of Resorts, Hotels & Golf Clubs coming together to offer you Tailormade golf packages to Ireland. For more information contact:

Email: [email protected]: www.clubchoiceireland.com

By Clive Agran

The stunning 17th at St Helens Bay Golf Club


CharlestonCHARLESTON, SC – Home to 19 championship golf courses and 60 miles of pristine coastline, the Charleston area paints the

perfect picture for pairing water sports with the sport of golf. The area’s seaside courses offer endless opportunities for players to cruise the waterway and the fairway in the same day. With activities ranging from fishing to boating to kayaking, golfers can explore

the waters before perfecting their swing. A sampling of exceptional spots to experience a Charleston area sea-to-tee trip includes: Kiawah Island Golf Resort - The Ocean CourseHost site for the 2012 PGA Championship and the 2007 Senior PGA, this Pete Dye design has more seaside holes than any other

course in the Northern Hemisphere. Exposed to the area’s unpredictable sea breezes, players have been known to experience up to an eight club difference on certain holes depending on the day. Tricky hazards that require sharp focus when firing at the pin, further test a golfer’s skill.

Wild Dunes Resort- The Harbor Course


Charleston Seabrook Island Club - Ocean Winds and Crooked OaksEnclosed by lush marshland and maritime forests, the seclusion

and tranquility of Seabrook Island makes it the perfect location for a relaxing round with friends. These uncrowded courses are deemed a golfer’s paradise, as players can zip along wait-free. Challenging a player’s precision and accuracy, the fairways are dotted with century old oak trees adorned with Spanish moss.

Patriots Point LinksSituated on the edge of the Charleston Harbor in Mount Pleas-

ant, this course remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Playing differently each day thanks to ever-changing wind condi-tions, a golfer’s talent is tested every time the course is played. One should pay particular attention to their drives, as thick rough and high Bermuda grass often turn a missed fairway into a lost ball. Golf-ers often consider the signature par-three 17th hole worth the cost of the round by itself.

The Links at Stono FerrySet amidst centuries-old live oaks, this course is home to the


Kiawah Island Golf Resort - The Ocean Course

Patriots Point Links


revolutionary Battle of Stono Ferry in 1779. Designed by Ron Garl, its signature 14th hole sits on the site of the plantation’s original ferry landing. Hugging the Stono River on several holes, keeping one’s ball dry is half the battle. With sharp doglegs and marshes requiring lengthy carry, The Links at Stono Ferry offers one of the most historic tests of skill in the Lowcountry.

Wild Dunes Resort- The Harbor CourseWith holes bordering the Intracoastal Waterway, this Tom Fazio de-

sign is nestled on the northern tip of Isle of Palms, a lush barrier island. Featuring a variety of long and short holes, severely undulating greens, salt marshes and large lagoons, this resort course challenges all aspects of a golfer’s game.

Dunes West Golf & River ClubLocated on the site of the historical Lexington Plantation, this Ar-

thur Hills designed course is set amongst a landscape of lush palms, Bermuda-covered dunes and meandering creeks. Aesthetically stun-

ning and always kept in pristine condition, wide-open holes allow golf-ers the chance to score low.

The hardest is saved for last with the 18th hole’s steeply sloped, dual green split by the marshes of Wagner Creek.

To arrange a Charleston area sea-to-tee trip, call 800-774-4444 or visit www.charlestongolfguide.com.

The Charleston Area Golf ExperienceMore than 200 years ago, Charleston was the site of America’s first

golf club. This heritage of golfing excellence is evident today. Guests have convenient access to more than 19 championship courses, cre-ated by legendary architects including Arnold Palmer, Rees Jones, Gary Player, Arthur Hills, Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The area also offers plenty of year-round activity off the course. They range from historic tours and attractions to inshore and offshore fishing and award-winning dining, as well as a year-round calendar of festivals and events.

Seabrook Island Club - Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks Dunes West Golf & River Club

The Links at Stono Ferry


Golfers throughout the East and Midwest take solace: there are only so many polar vortexes this winter can deal out before the spring golf season arrives. And when it does, there’s no sense in wasting anytime. Get the golf shopping done now.

The recently wrapped PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando is to golf what the Consumer Electronics Show is to the techie world. For have-clubs-will-travel types, the annual trade show with 40,000-plus attendees is the place to discover – and test – the latest golf travel products. Here’s a round-up of some of the buzz-worth offerings from the 2014 edition.

Blunt Umbrellas G-1MSRP: $99www.bluntusa.comReplace that tired old corporate logo umbrella in the golf bag with a new state-of-the-art Blunt G-1 “Personal Weather Canopy.” It might just be the last and only one you’ll ever need. The “Blunt technology” is a uniquely tensioned canopy with a flatter aerodynamic profile eliminating sharp edg-es and weak points. One of the main reasons umbrellas break is the fabric tears away from a tip or separates from the ribs running through the struc-ture. With some of the greatest golf destinations stateside and abroad locat-ed in tumultuous weather regions, the G-1 is the perfect road companion.

Club Glove Last BagMSRP: $299www.clubglove.comFor golfers making equipment purchases based on PGA Tour player use, Club Glove is the only option when looking at a travel case. The company’s award-winning Last Bag is used by more than 90% of PGA Tour players. Its popularity stems from amazing durability, extremely high quality ma-terials and American made craftsmanship. Utilizing Invista™ Cordura® 1000 D water resistant nylon, the Last Bag is more tear resistant than the polyester used by many competitors. It is available in 16 colors, including new military-themed camouflage and an eye-catching black/pink combo.

ECCO Men’s Street EVO OneMSRP: $160www.eccousa.comDanish company ECCO continues its leading cleat-less footwear advances with the introduc-tion of the Street EVO One. The next evolution of ECCO’s best-selling golf shoe, the Street EVO One boasts performance and style elements for Tour players and amateur golfers alike. Built atop the award-winning E-DTS hybrid outsole and two-colored up-pers, the Street EVO One is fashionable both on and off the course. With a slightly wider rear construction, Street EVO One is designed to wrap around a player’s heel for a more stable platform to power through each shot. Other upgrades include a superior cushioned TPU base and hybrid outsole with approximately 100 molded traction bars and 800-plus traction angles for superior grip in all conditions.

Scheyden Precision Eyewear C130MSRP: $309-345www.scheyden.com Handcrafted in Japan with the world’s finest materials, Scheyden offers superior functional and quality sunglasses. New for 2014 is the C130 model with hand-welded titanium frame and spring-loaded hinges to provide a comfortable flex-fit. The mineral glass lenses are hand-ground and pol-ished with anti-scratch and water repellant features for ultimate clarity.

GALVIN GREENAron GORE-TEX Paclite Full-Zip Jacket with Stretch FabricMSRP: $460www.GalvinGreen.comThe world’s leading maker of functional golf clothing for serious players, Galvin Green adheres to a “We Never Compromise” mantra. Founded in 1990, the Swedish company is a pure golf brand specializing supplying high-performance clothing in more than 20 countries. It formally launched in the U.S. for Spring/Summer 2014 and is available exclusively at better green grass shops.

New for 2014, the Aron GORE-TEX Paclite Full-Zip Jacket with Stretch Fabric is totally waterproof and guaranteed to keep golfers bone dry. It fea-tures an ideal combination of lightweight weather protection and extreme breathability that enables the release of excess heat and moisture. It’s styled to avoid unnecessary fabric at the front of jacket that could impede the swing motion. Specifically developed for golfers to provide a perfect fit and maximum freedom of movement, the jacket is extremely durable and hard-wearing.

Hot Golf Travel Gear for 2014Annual PGA Show is the Epicenter of Buzz-Worthy Products


Hot Golf Travel Gear for 2014by JDLATORRE

SKLZ Gold FlexMSRP: $69.99www.sklz.com Imagine a harmonic convergence of cutting-edge, light-weight fitness gear and golf performance train-ing aids and you have SKLZ. New for 2014, the Carlsbad, California-based company is offering the Gold Flex warm-up and temp training aid. A whippy shaft with a polyurethane-weighted head improves golfers’ swings while strengthening their cores. It claims to flight slices by flattening the swing plane. Just as importantly for traveling golfers, it is easy to take on the airplane, as the Gold Flex fits easily into a golf bag and is legal to carry on course.


G/FORE Delta Force Golf GloveMSRP: $40www.gfore.com G/FORE’s design and array of color delivers on comfort and style. With premium AA Ca-bretta leather in a precision cut and embroi-dered patch detail, the G/FORE golf glove is unparalleled in construction, quality and fit. The gloves, which conform with USGA rules, are worn by Tom Watson (PGA & Champions Tours), Jonas Blixt (PGA & European Tours), Ricky Barnes (PGA Tour), Robert Rock (Eu-ropean Tour), Alex Cejka (European Tour), Shingo Katayama (Japan Golf Tour), Tommy Armour III (Champions Tour), Kathleen Ekey (LPGA Tour) & world-renowned golf instructor Rick Smith.

KENTWOOL 19th Hole CollectionMSRP: $19.95www.kentwool.com Made in the USA, KENTWOOL 19th Hole Collection fashion per-formance socks offer sophisticated style and comfort on and off the golf course. The proprietary blend of natural and high-tech fibers create an innovative, micro-cli-mate system for superior moisture management and odor control. Travelers take note: The mois-ture-wicking technology and odor control allows for fewer washes, ideal for packing light. Enhanced cushioning at strategic micro-stress points along the foot and engineered heel, toe and bridge elements result in abrasion-proof comfort. KENTWOOL socks are worn by scores of athletes con-stantly on their feet, including pro golfers Bubba Watson and Matt Kuchar. The 19th Hole Collection boasts a 100% blister-free guarantee and is available in a variety of styles for both men and women.

KENTWOOL Pro-Light and SportMSRP: $20.95www.kentwoolsocks.com Worn on Tour by Bubba Watson and Matt Kuchar and scores of other elite professionals, the 170-year-old wool innovator, KENTWOOL, uses a proprietary blend of natural and high-tech fibers to create an innovative, micro-climate system for superior moisture management and wicking, as well as odor control. The result is a sock that stays dry and odor-free with-out washing for multiple wears. In addition to the brand’s performance and fashion socks, KENTWOOL is releasing two new styles for 2014, the Ultra Lite and Generation 2. Updated with sleeker silhouette, faster designs and new fabric blends, both performance styles retain the brand’s signature blister-free guarantee and are made entirely in the USA.

TRS Ballistic Luggage from Club GloveMSRP: Check-In XL, $799; Check-In, $750; Carry-On, $699; Shoulder Bag, $349; Backpack, $349; TravelRX, $399www.clubglove.com http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trYnuH0EsG8This new ultra-premium, Made-in-the-USA collection from Club Glove is designed with military-grade ballistic nylon material (INVISTA CORDU-RA® 1050), providing vastly superior abrasion resistance than other premi-um brands. It features the renowned Train Reaction System, which allows travelers to link multiple bags together to create one rolling unit, making it extremely easy to navigate airports and hotels. Six bags in varying sizes are part of the line-up, each is available in black or a new black/bronze combo. Nylon mesh packing modules are included to help travelers stay perfectly organized and custom embroidery is available for a small upcharge.

WOLSEY Insulator JacketMSRP: $370www.Wolsey.comWolsey – one of the world’s oldest existing clothing brands and a pio-neer of premium men’s apparel for sporting endeavors – is re-launch-ing its historic Sportsman line this year, and has appointed Johan Lindeberg “Golf Brand Ambas-sador.” Sportsman’s sophisticated modern garments use traditional British menswear colors in a clean and subtle manner.

The Insulator Jacket is a must for golfers traveling to cooler climes. It features 100% polyester ripstop with Prima Loft Tech details. Light weight, high-performance and fully insulated for exceptional warmth and comfort, the jacket is windproof and water-resistant with two-way stretch and wrist cuffs for freedom of movement.

Francis EdwardMSRP: $150 - $509https://www.facebook.com/FrancisEdwardUSAFounded by PGA TOUR player Paul Stankowski, Francis Edward produc-es colorful and luxurious exotic belts and accessories for men and women. Belts are highly customizable, including leather-type, color, border and width. They can be sized in-shop with Francis Edward’s unique fitting system. Featuring Alligator, Crocodile, Lizard, Shark, Python, and other leather types, Francis Edward belts are as unique as they are stylish.

Hot Golf Travel Gear for 2014

golf vacations magazine february 2014

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