golfscene spring 2013


▲ a visit to Modern Golf where we learned a whole about the fitting process (+ gained a few very valuable yards) page 54

◄ seek out your next challenge on any of our fantastic golf course facilities in our 2013 Places to Play section - starts on page 59

▲ #follow Geoff Tait as he takes us for an exclusive visit inside Arnold Palmer's Kingdom in Latrobe, PA - page 29

C O N T E N T S

SceneGolf TM

SPRING 2013 Volume 14 : Issue 1

... nothing like starting the season with some brand new swag for the bag (cart not included)

FREE SAMPLES OF SOME OF THE NEW GEAR- starting on page 18

GEAR

PLACES TO PLAY

SOCIAL MEDIA

NOTEBOOK : MESSAGE IN THE BOTTLESA few quick notes on a performance supplement that is starting to gain serious traction in the sports

world - including golf (which is almost a sport, we think, - or at least moving that way once we can remove the pants and collars). By Steve Woods ...... page 16

TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWING : GOLF NEEDS A RULING(S)"As much as I’ve gone on record as saying Tiger Woods should have DQ-ed himself for signing an incorrect

scorecard at the Masters, that’s only because he discovered he had done something wrong, not because there was any intent to cheat." By Ian Hutchinson ...... page 36

THE TARTAN CHAMELEON : THERE IS A COST TO INDECISION"The issue is pace of play, not just with golfers, but with rules officials, golf administrators, and the powers that

be in the upper echelons of our great sport." By Carolanne Doig ...... page 42

IN CONVERSATION : THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MUNIContributor Rob Foster sits down with the GM / Head Golf Professional for the City of London Golf Courses,

Steve Bennett, to talk about the golf industry, accessibility at municipal courses and helping a young Mike Weir develop his game prior to becoming a Canadian Golf icon. By Rob Foster ...... page 44

GREEN SIDE UP : CHALLENGING MOTHER NATUREThere is a lot of technology that goes into managing turf on a golf course. There are a lot of

techniques and strategies we as professional Turf Managers use to whip our course into shape as quickly as possible. Creating a plan and implementing it in a proactive way is a good recipe for

success in most cases. By Tom Margetts ...... page 48

ON THE SCENE

wait, can I get my caddie to read this for me?

Scenery »Scenery »Golf

Old world links style charm and impeccable conditioning are just a couple of the abundance of traits which make the Copetown Woods golf course a favourite among so many golfers (including us at GolfScene). So when we heard they were turning 10 this year, we thought what better a way to say 'thanks for the decade' than a card of our own - GolfScenery style.

▪ for additional info on Copetown Woods and other great area courses visit our PLACES TO PLAY section starting on page 59

Spring 20136SceneGolf TM

Copetown Woods - Copetown, Ontario

Spring 20137golfscene.ca


The soft shell membrane of Galvin Green's Windstopper is made from a versatile polymer (polytetrafluorethylene) which expands to create a microporous structure. Or, in terms we can all understand - it is capable of keeping the rain and wind out while also allowing vapour molecules (excess heat & perspiration) to pass through unhindered. Essentially, it's outerwear that keeps the inner you, warm and dry.A combination of technologically advanced fabrics and innovative designs are what separates the leaders from the followers in the golf apparel game. Comfort and performance start with the right cuts and the proper materials. Swagger, on the other hand, comes from confidence and wearing the right attire really, really well.


The Windstopper - from Galvin Green


Fast Forward - the 2013 US Open will be played at Merion Golf Club which reminded us ... that in 1966 Kitchener, Ontario's Gary Cowan captured the US Amateur there after

an 18 hole playoff with Deane Beman.

10 Spring 2013SceneGolf TM


©USGA Archives / photographer unknown

Newsprint attached to back of photo reads: "Gary Cowan holes putt on 18th green of play-off for the 1966 U.S. Amateur

Championship to defeat Deane Beman (seated on golf bag) by 1 stroke at Merion Golf Club, Ardmore, Pa."


Much has changed at the Barrie Country Club over the years (100 to be exact!) ... including a move from its original site, a 9 hole layout on the grounds now known as Sunnidale Park, to its current home (1970) in Springwater Township. A modern clubhouse (2007) overlooks the 18 hole championship design while more recent updates include additional tee decks and a casual lounge. Proof that some things can get even better with age.

Barrie Country Club - Barrie, Ontario

PHO

TO C

OU

RTES

Y : B

arri

e C

ount

ry C

lub


Happy Centena ry Ba rrie - Cheers : )


F R O M T H E E D I T O R

elcome to the spring - well - early summer some might attest. Crazy weather to start this our 14th season in print. Our apologies, this issue is out a little later than normal but we do 'work' closely with Mother Nature in

an effort to ensure it's on the shelves and in the hands of golfers (like you) when the flowers are blooming, the greens are rolling, and the season is truly underway.

And yes, we we still believe in the genuine magazine experience as we continue to believe in - and invest in - the game. Unfortunately, we can't say the same for a few of the other golf publications who it seems have chosen to lay it up in various digital formats and, ouch, flipping eZines (score it a WD or DNF). It's too bad because golf needs all of the media it can muster nowadays. Nevertheless, we wish them well and will simply play right through, address it where it lies, aim for the flags, and evolve accordingly.

What we've got are 60+ pages of curious golf content for you to pe-ruse between rounds in addition to information on lots of the great regional courses at which to tee it up. The heck with the so called shortened season, there are plenty of days ahead to squeeze in a few extra holes and circle a few more birdies.

And look for the format to change a little going forward as we nar-row the focus even further to the things golfers (at least our readers) want to see. More info on the cool stuff you need and the awesome un-rated and, hopefully, non-discounted courses to play. As always, we'll keep it light and keep it fun because that is what the game needs more than anything. And if that's not for you, no problem, feel free to dial in a rules violation - we'll happily add a few extra strokes to our card.

WServing South | West | Central Ontario Volume 14 | Issue 1 | Spring 2013 | golfscene.ca

+

NOT REQUIRED TO READ THIS MAGAZINE

ADD TO CART

THIS MAGAZINE IS DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF ITS

FOUNDER,NORM WOODS

COVER: we're playing through

(back issues can be difficult to find so we do maintain a digital

archive - golfscene.ca)

HUTCH talks a little about how the game needs to focus on the important stuff and cease with dragging it through the media mud with wasted words on rules violations and or indecisive equipment tribulations . TOM MARGETTS chimes in on the slow weather start and how it effects the turf we play on. CAROLANNE DOIG reminds us how pace of play in all areas of the game is plaguing participation. We also have details on some of the great new GEAR out there plus a few images and asides from a recent visit to MODERN GOLF. The LPGA is back again this year in Waterloo. The tournament had a stellar first year and there is little reason to think it won't, once again, be a great event to attend. ROB FOSTER chats with London golf pro Steve Bennett about the municipal golf experience and his ties to MIKE WEIR. Some great GOLFSCENERY, an awesome CONTEST and much more ... it's our biggest spring issue yet. Let's have great season. Thanks to all our supporters and, as always, enjoy your next round! And the one after that.

IN THIS EDITION

Q is for Qu agmire - whose co-fou nder a nd creative director Geoff Ta it contribute s some very cool behi nd the scen e s images a nd a necdote s to this issu e from the home of the K i ng - Mr. Arnold Pa lmer

C is for context - beca u se some thi ngs ju st ma ke more sense with a note or two

A is for a side s - or brie f thou ghts on a su bject which may or may not have been mea nt to be spoken

Opinions expressed in signed articles are those of the

author only and not necessarily those of the Publisher.

Unsolicited manuscripts are invited, but their return

cannot be guaranteed. Letters to the Editor may be

edited for legalities and only signed letters will be

considered for publication.

PRINTED IN CANADA | SUBSCRIPTION &

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 416 548 4143

212 Harvest Drive | Milton | Ontario | L9T 4T3Phone: (416) 548 4143 | [email protected]

www.golfscene.ca

PLEASE RECYCLE

SceneGolf TM

© GolfScene Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without

the expressed written permission of the publisher.

The reading of this magazine does not require a wifi connection, nor is it password

protected, and its pages can be conveniently turned without any impending fear of a video automatically starting up without permission.

The fixed screen size is for usability.

SPRING 2013 : Volume 14 : Issue 1

PUBLISHER: GolfScene IncTRUSTED CADDIE: Linda Woods

EDITOR: Steve Woods

COLUMNISTS

Ian Hutchinson | Tom Margetts | Carolanne Doig

CONTRIBUTORSGeoff Tait | Rob Foster | Mother Nature

We're ON THE SCENE at Horsehoe Valley Resort, Sawmill Creek Golf & Spa, as well as a visit to Niagara Falls. We'll also be dedicating a bunch of pages to apparel and fashion featuring many of the trending golf brands that look as good off the course as they do on. Plus, tips and tricks to improve your game and, as always, a few things that have not happened yet.

COMING IN THE SUMMER EDITION

@GolfScene

NOTEBOOK[ holding onto a smartphone while jotting down things with pencil - steve woods ]

SceneGolf TM Spring 201316

M E S S A G E I N T H E B O T T L E S

For the inquisitive onlookers (like us) wondering what that curious pink beverage being consumed by numerous touring pros is ... well? - that product is BIOSTEEL.

Perhaps, better known by its marketing slogan / online tag #DRINKTHEPINK ( powder + H2O = pink ) than by its trade name, BIOSTEEL, we've learned, is a performance based supplement with origins right here in Canada.

The product was created by certified athletic trainer Matt Nichol who, while working as the strength and con-ditioning coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs, decided that the ingredients in the supplements being used by his players might be doing more harm than good.

So in 2005, when the NHL unveiled a strict anti-doping testing policy, Matt decided it was time to find a better solution. Drawing upon his background in nutrition and together with a team of scientists the group came up with a safe, quick-absorbing formula consisting of essential

amino acids and electrolytes which yield sustained ener-gy, quicker recovery, and enhance overall performance.

And the results of that collaboration certainly seem to be 'speaking for themselves' as the product continues to be turning up, and upside down, in more and more places and in the hands of more and more competitive athletes. Most new products nowadays are launched - the theory being that if you make a big enough initial splash both interest and demand are sure to follow. While others, like BIOSTEEL, are born from the same desire that fuels competitive athletes - necessity (think Gatorade if you know the genesis of that product). The will to improve - to make or do things better. And that is a slow and de-termined climb measured not through hyperbole, but in-stead by results. And we're partial to the latter.

So if you too are a little curious and want to learn more? ... tee up your research at biosteel.com.

IMAG

ES :

cour

tesy

GO

LF W

RX


( a nd zero su ga r )

The Covert's prominent red crown and curiously hollowed out

sole (cavity back) really do make Nike's newest driver stand out

from anything else on the market. Big on adjustability and tech,

this driver is getting a lot of praise from the fitters we've talked

to - which means the numbers are making some noise.

The street style shoe is no longer a

trend but fast becoming the norm.

Welcome to the new traditional. And

while Ecco might not be leading the

way anymore, they are still lacing

up some quality kicks. Low profile,

stable, durable, and comfortable -

all traits you will find with the BIO

HYBRID.

GEAR

ECCO BIO HYBRID


NIKE COVERT DRIVER

just a random sampling of some of the cool new stuff out there trying to find space in the bag ....

whether it's lighter, faster, or just well 'better adjusted' ... here are a few of the things that should be on your radar this season and why ...


NEW 20XI

COBRA AMP CELL

When something is good the tendency is

to crave a little more. So the folks at Nike

decided to top up the new 20XI with a

little more RZN (innovative core) … which

essentially translates into more pop and

more stop.

Based on the premise that about 80% of golfers are using the wrong loft in their drivers,

TaylorMade’s R1 driver boasts the ability to make no less than 168 different tuning

adjustments - that’s a big and rather daunting number. Yet what it does is allow any golfer with

any swing characteristics to be fitted (and subsequently re-fitted) properly without the need to

change heads etc. And optimum performance is all about matching the tech to the player.

There is little doubt that the

Cobra brand has undergone a

super infusion of ‘life’ recently.

Big time tech meets big time

style. The AMP CELL driver

offers adjustability, innovative

face technology as well as a little

customization (choose from an

assortment of colours) right out of

the box.

NOTE: LIMITED EDITION US OPEN version shown

GEAR

TAYLORMADE R1and we'll stay away from too many of the technical terms ('cause

most of us don't quite

understand them anyway)

The 913 series offers a clubhead in the more traditional pear-

shaped deep face tour design (D3) as well as a more forgiving

yet equally teched-out (D2) option. Add to both the ability to

fine tune things via adustability and there is certainly an option

here that can be quickly dialed in for all players.

FootJoy’s newest footwear line is a minimalist design

with a focus on being lightweight and ultra-flexible in

an effort to maximize feedback and feel. This is a real

departure from the company’s more traditional designs

but another example of a company evolving and

providing golfers with options.

If you follow us on INSTAGRAM you’ve

probably already caught us drooling over the

fine lines of the new Callaway X-Forged irons.

Something about blades just speaks directly

to the golfing heart – even though we might

not have the game to use them. Oh well,

throw caution and a couple blades of grass to

the wind, these irons just scream fierce.

While there seems to

be a big push for colour

in the driver world

nowadays, we are really

diggin' the matte black

finish and uncluttered

design of the G25.

Ping seems genuinely

disinterested in keeping

up the 'Joneses' - and

maybe it's because in a

lot of ways they are the

Joneses.

TITLEIST 913

FOOTJOY'S M LINE

X FORGED

PING G25



GEAR

ODYSSEY TANK

CALLAWAY'S X HOT

STX PITCH BLACK

Odyssey’s newest putter model is a tank – literally. Well, actually

it’s more like a counterbalanced (new buzzword for 2013) model

that improves stability and happens to perform like its moniker.

Basically, increasing and balancing the weight in the club promotes

the use of the 'big' muscles and encourages a pendulum motion.

Less hands translates into a more consistent stroke.

The so-called lesser sibling to it’s RAZR Fit Xtreme family,

Callaway's X HOT line is certainly spinning more than a few heads

and launch monitors. Tighter curvature and stiffness across the

face translate into increases in energy transfer. And that is simply

creating siginificatnt distance gains for players at all levels.

Every golf bag needs a Sharpie. Mark your ball. Make some notes. Sign a few autographs. Well maybe not all of those

things, but with a special cap from More / Real you can also convert everyone's favourite marker into a tablet friendly

stylus. Great for mapping out how you'll indelibly play the hole you just doubled today, tomorrow - or, just black it out.

Combining modern and classic design elements like the

STX Black can work really well from both an aesthetics

and performance perspective. A stealth black finish

partnered with a high contrast yellow elastomer insert

improves sightlines and gets the ball rolling on line.

LEAVE A MARK - HAVE A SHARPIE

when nobody's looking, I play from the proper tees - easiest way I know to hit it farther

22

H i g H

S p e e d

d i S ta n c e

H i g H

S p e e d

d i S ta n c ew o r l d ’ s f i r s t H i G H s P E E d c a v i t y b a c k d r i v E r


H i g H

S p e e d

d i S ta n c e

H i g H

S p e e d

d i S ta n c ew o r l d ’ s f i r s t H i G H s P E E d c a v i t y b a c k d r i v E r

24

Independently choose your

loft and face angle. a sImple

adjustment fIts your club

to your game.

the world’s fIrst hIgh speed

cavIty back conformIng

drIver delIvers longer and

straIghter shots.

nexcor face technology

delIvers faster and longer

shots across a wIder area

of the face.

Jhonattan Vegas Nick WatNey Kyle Stanley

BALANCE ON AXIS

The AXIS putter works

on the theory of lowering

the torque ratio. In simple

terms many putters want to

‘open’ up at address due

to weighting etc. This takes

things off-line. Reducing

torque means that the

putter sets up and stays on

the intended path which,

provided you’ve read it

correctly, should end up in

the bottom of the cup

Here’s an interesting concept from ClubCrown. Our

guess is that this is something that might have been

snickered at years ago, but today with all of the

new paint and decals on the crowns of drivers it

just might fly. And the Canadian flag is one terrific

alignment aid, eh!

ADD YOUR OWN STRIPES


THE NEW BLACKBERRY

Independently choose your

loft and face angle. a sImple

adjustment fIts your club

to your game.

the world’s fIrst hIgh speed

cavIty back conformIng

drIver delIvers longer and

straIghter shots.

nexcor face technology

delIvers faster and longer

shots across a wIder area

of the face.

Jhonattan Vegas Nick WatNey Kyle Stanley

Quick access to accurate yardages not only makes the

game a little easier, but when readily available it can also

help to speed up play. Traditional handheld rangefinders are

fantastic tools, yet they still seem a little cumbersome on the

course at times. That’s why we are curious to see how these

new wrist-watch style units function. And all golfers really

need are the yardages - not sure a flyover helps anyone

(except maybe the company selling that service).

Though we don't actually hit any shots with a smartphone,

these addictive little devices are used for booking times,

keeping scores, checking the weather, or reading online

posts at GolfScene. And let's not forget sending an email or

two while waiting between tee boxes - the mobile office is a

very good thing for golf. Which is why the new blackberry is

something many have been waiting for (the one with the actual

keyboard). Maybe we can now speed up the slow play we've

been enduring while trying to type on a (backspace delete)

touch screen.

BUSHNELL NEO


NO NEW BULL

GEAR

TITLEIST UTILITY

SUNICE NAROOMA

NIKE METHOD DRONE

ADAMS SUPER HYBRID

For those who get lost right in between a long

iron and a hybrid, there is hope on the way. A

new utility category is emerging and Titleist,

as one might expect, is one of the brands

leading the way. Making a club that is easier

to hit than a traditional iron AND offering more

trajectory control than a hybrid is the secret.

Enough with the complaints

about the weather ... please.

Great outerwear takes care of

the elements.

Take these Narooma pants

from Sun Ice for example (part

of the 'Hurricane' Collection)

- nothing is getting through

these. And they are now

available in a myriad of sizes

(finally) so they can be bought

to fit as well as they work.

Many of these new fangled putter designs take a

little getting used to. At first glance, the new Nike

Method Drone is certainly a little different than

the norm (though the norm is evolving). Centre

weighting and wing tips ensure balance - keeping

the club on path - while the tour proven insert

generates a consistent forward roll.

Red Bull has gotten us through more

than a few 6 hour rounds, not to mention

plenty of late nights working on the

magazine. Now we sort of fancied

the original flavour but like all things

nowadays, including golf clubs, it’s nice

to have a few additional options. Enter

RED, BLUE, and SILVER to the energy

equation. No guarantees it will help you

drive it 300 yards, but if a golf ball could

grow wings ...

As the focus moves from off-the-rack-

standard to visit-a-fitter-custom the

numbers will begin to tell the story most

golfers have known the ending of for

a while now - hitting long irons is next

to impossible. And so companies, like

Adams, who know a thing or two about

hybrids will be well positioned (and

properly aligned) to fill that market.

Enter the new Super Series which resets

the ball speed benchmarks while being

even easier to hit.

For more information, visit www.Canada2Myrtle.com

America’s #1 Summer Golf Destination

With daily flights from Toronto, it’s never been easier for the enitre familyto enjoy America’s best collection of golf courses, 60 miles of sandy ocean front,

great food and nightlife. So, take a family trip this summer!

KIDS PLAY

FREE!KIDS PLAY

FREE!

MBGH-GolfScene0423_Layout 1 13-04-26 1:31 PM Page 1

• memberships, leagues• tournaments• weddings

• 27 Championship Holes• fully stocked Pro Shop• fine dining at Gators

71 Highway 52 North | Copetown | (905) 627-1743 | www.flamboroughhills.com

2013

Over $20,000 in Green Fee Savings

www.golfersredbook.ca

Only $44.95!Over 550 Great Golf Deals in Southwestern Ontario

GOLFER’SGREEN CARD

16 Rounds for $189!

Experience some of the most enjoyable golf courses in the beautiful

Southwestern Ontario region.

Limited quantities available Buy yours now!

www.golfersgreencard.ca

2013


olf has been great to me throughout my ca-reer and I consider myself very fortunate to have experienced some of the greatest events, places, and people in the game. And just when I thought it could not get any bet-ter, I received one of the rarest invitations in

golf ... Augusta? Pebble Beach? Nope, Latrobe Pennsylvania. Now some of you probably think I’m crazy and may have abso-lutely no idea what goes on in Latrobe and, to be honest, neither did I - but I can assure you that there is a little piece of heaven in that small sleepy town - and it is every bit a golfer's dream!

Lucky for me (and you) I was able to sneak in a camera and snap a few pictures while the greatest golfer of all time wasn’t looking. That’s right, I was in the home of the King - Arnie's Place. It’s where he grew up, where he learned to play, where he still works to this day in the summer months. I found myself in a mind blowing barn and office full of the coolest and largest collections of clubs, bags, photos, trophies and much, much more. Not open to the public, it was indeed a rare invitation -

#ANDIBROUGHTMYCAMERA#BRUSHWITHGREATNESS#ARNOLDPALMER

#BUCKETLIST

#BYINVITEONLY

#WALKTHROUGHHISTORY

G

Follow Geoff Tait, co-founder of Quagmire Golf and Creative Director for Arnie 2012, as he takes us on a golfer's dream visit

to the home of Arnold Palmer in Latrobe, PA.

IT'S GOOD TO BE

THE KING

IT'S GOOD TO BE

THE KING

SOCIAL MEDIA

Tractor used at Latrobe Country Club. Bags in the back are Ryder cup bags and the films are of the Masters from the 60’s and 70’s.

words & photos by Geoff Tait

and one that I will remember forever.


▲ Highlights in Mr Palmer's office include the table of medals he had custom built to hold the medals he won at events. One space remains empty - the PGA Championship medal.

On top of the table is a model of his current plane and a Presidents Cup trophy.


FIRST STOP WAS THE OFFICE. The place where Mr. Palmer goes ev-eryday when he is in Latrobe. The office is filled with pictures of Mr. Palmer with Presidents, pic-tures with trophies, the trophies themeselves, medals, and the keys to hundreds of cities (guess that’s why he was always hitching up his pants - too many keys on the ring). There are also models of the planes he actually owned and flew him-self. There is a very cool table he had custom made to hold all of the medals from each event he won. Unfortunately, there is one space that stands empty - a hole that he left for the elusive PGA Champi-onship. There is also a workshop attached which houses thousands of putters and drivers ... which he still tinkers with when he needs a break from the daily grind of running his businesses. Lucky for him, when he gets thirsty, he can stop and take a drink out of a beer bottle with his own picture on it. In my books that comes a close second to those four green jackets!

THE OFFICE


NEXT STOP WAS 'THE BARN'. Those of you who know me, know that museum is not a word that often comes out of my mouth but this so called 'barn' needs to one day be a museum. From the moment I walked through the door I barely blinked. There are 8000 golf clubs he played with in some sort of major or profes-sional golf event, bags from the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup, every pair of shoes he’s ever worn and every letter that has ever been written to him. There is information about every business he ever had a hand in. The pictures on the walls are just mind blowing- celebrities, Presidents, even the Queen! He even has a chunk of the score-board from his winning round at the Canadian Open, his first ever professional win.

▲ Above in round numbers there are approximately 1000 Drivers,

2000 Putters and 400 sets, for a total of 8000 clubs. All of which

Arnold Plamer played with at some point in time.

► These blue and white bags are from the Arnold Palmer Golf

Company, which he started after his endorsement agreement with

Wilson (1955-1963) expired. Based in Chattanooga, Tennessee he partnered with The First Flight

Company to start making Arnold Palmer clubs and bags.

◄ Things you'll find in Arnold Palmer's workshop include a Budweiser beer given to him by a friend for his 80th birthday and the champagne given to him to commemorate his 50th Masters. Shoes are his bronzed baby shoes.

► Mr. Palmer flew to Wake Forest to receive an honorary doctorate degree during a spring commencement ceremony. When he got home, this sign was in his yard. It was made by a friend and LCC club member, John Ridilla

THE BARN


AFTER I WAS FORCED OUT OF THE BARN and given a full pat down, my next stop was the rarest of them all - Arnold Palmer’s home. The house was beautifully decorated by the late Winnie Palmer, mother to Amy and Peggy, two of the kindest people I have ever met, and of course the wife to the greatest golfing legend of all time. Unassuming and elegant you can feel the love the minute you step through that door. What an incredible honour to be in the King’s home! Out of respect for the family, I am only sharing one picture, a sign hanging on the wall in Mr. Palmer’s basement beside his pool table. If that table could talk!

LAST STOP, after they woke me up from my nap in Mr. Palmer’s bed (just kidding), was the Latrobe Country Club. It was time for a little snack. With all of Mr. Palmers favorites on the menu and the clubhouse full of pictures, memorabilia and trophies this sure beat the Chilis down the road. Steeped in history and class Latrobe really is like something straight out of a movie. With Rolling Rock on tap and great company at the table, I can honestly say I never wanted this once in lifetime adventure to end.

► The neon sign that hangs on the wall alongside Arnold Palmer's pool table.

@QuagmireGolf

YOU CAN FOLLOW GEOFF TAIT ON TWITTER AND RUMOUR HAS IT THAT HE HAS SOMETING REALLY COOL BREWING FOR THE GOLF WORLD - SO STAY TUNED.

THE HOUSE

THE LAST STOP

It gave bucket list a whole new meaning.


and we've got 5 pretty good reasons to attend

July 10 -14 2013

WITNESS GREAT GOLF – great golf in our very own backyard! The Manulife Financial LPGA Classic is back in Waterloo Region and is the place to be to see the best of the best in the world compete! Come on out to Grey Silo to witness the top women’s golfers in the world.

PROMOTE & SUPPORT THE REGION – By attending the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic you will be showing your support of the LPGA and world-class events in Waterloo Region. You will be continuing to support a tradition made possible by Manulife Financial, who is committed to the community, and boasts the City of Waterloo as being home of their Canadian Division. You will also be showing your support for the St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation and helping them with the promotion of heart health.

FAMILY AFFAIR – looking for an excellent and affordable way to spend time with the whole family? - the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic is your answer. Kids 15 years and younger are free with a ticketed adult. And there will be no shortage of activities for the family to enjoy during the the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic in 2013. Check it out, and maybe even make it a family tradition.

SO MUCH MORE TO DO – You came in 2012, now there are even more reasons you won’t want to miss the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic in 2013! New for this year … check out the BlackBerry Family Zone, a family-oriented area on the course expected to include activities for the family to enjoy including plenty of games, swing analysis, mini-putt, and more!

GET OUTDOORS & ENJOY – Love being outside? The Manulife Financial LPGA Classic provides a great opportunity to take in a world-class sporting event while enjoying the sunshine and refreshing summer breeze. This outdoor event is perfect for golf enthusiasts as well as those new to the sport looking to take in the action, and learn more about the game. You will also love all of the great viewing areas being added for this year, providing more shade, and an even better overall experience.

once again, all eyes will be on the very best in the world when the LPGA returns to Waterloo

1

2

3

4

5


Had he done it on purpose after hitting the flagstick on 15 and watching it roll into the water, it doesn’t make sense he’d talk about his improper drop in media inter-views afterwards, which led officials to give him a two-stroke penalty and touch off the entire controversy.

“I wasn’t even thinking,” said Woods.“I was still a little ticked at what happened and I was

just trying to figure, `Okay, I need to take some yardage off this shot,’ and that’s all I was thinking about was trying

to make sure I took some yardage off it and evidently, it was pretty obvious I didn’t drop in the right spot,” he said.

Woods was either caught up in the moment and not thinking clearly, or just wasn’t clear on the rule, the latter of which isn’t that uncommon, even at the game’s highest level.

“I don’t know the rule book because I always call in the rules official,” said Bubba Watson, who was defending Masters champion when the Tiger incident went down.

TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWINGOPINION

Perhaps the 2013 Masters will be remembered more for the rules controversy than the game itself.

Golf Needs A Ruling(s)As much as I’ve gone on record as saying Tiger Woods should have DQ-ed himself

for signing an incorrect scorecard at the Masters, that’s only because he discovered he had done something wrong, not because there was any intent to cheat.

by Ian Hutchinson

whenever I join a group as a single, the first thing I tell them is that I have a rule book


There’s a lot of irony to this situation in a game that prides itself on being all about tra-dition, honour, integrity and doing the right thing.

The headlines in golf very often scream rules, regulations and rulings when all peo-ple want to do is watch the game’s top stars play -- or play it themselves.

If the top players don’t have a handle on golf ’s plethora of rules, or officials at one of the most prestigious events in golf have trou-ble identifying an infraction on their own, what does that say to the folks who play for fun?

At one of the most prestigious events in golf, it wasn’t even an official who busted Woods on the drop controversy. It was a tele-vision viewer that prompted the officials to check video while Tiger was still out on the course and even then, they didn’t see any-thing incriminating.

Then, they heard Woods’ comments to the media and invoked Rule 33-7, which basi-cally gives the tournament committee carte blanche on whether to waive, modify or im-pose a DQ if it considers it warranted.

The decision to keep Tiger in the tourna-ment, at the very least, conjures up a per-ception that he is being given preferential treatment as the No. 1 draw in golf. Rightly or wrongly, his decision to not DQ himself dented his public image even more in the eyes of many.

Fortunately, the Tiger incident, even if it did carry over past the final putt at Augusta, didn’t put a blemish on Aussie Adam Scott winning the Masters, where rules should be paramount so there is no question about the outcome.

The same holds true at amateur competi-tions or club championships, but between playing rules, equipment rules and dress codes, the people who play the game for fun, or the ones who are considering it, get a steady diet of what they can’t do, as opposed to what they can.

For a year or so, we’ve heard speculation that the USGA and R&A would come up with something to deal with the proliferation of long putters and anchored style of putting that goes along with them, a method used by Scott and three other recent major winners.

At the end of November last year, we got the official word of the proposed ban on the

If the top players don’t have a handle on golf’s plethora of rules, or officials at one of the most prestigious events in golf have trouble identifying an infraction on their own, what does that say to the folks who play for fun?

continued next page

anchoring, which touched off a three-month comment period in which it be-came arguably the biggest story during a winter downtime in the game.

The announcement by golf ’s govern-ing associations on that matter hadn’t come down as of this writing, but next on tap is a possible rollback on the dis-tance that a golf ball travels.

The fear is that the bombers on tour are making some classic, old courses obsolete, but that doesn’t apply to the masses.

One would think that means a specific dialed-back tour ball, but given the stand by the governing associations against bifurcation, or different sets of equip-ment standards, it’s no guarantee the governing bodies may not want rec golfers to use the same golf ball as the pros.

Over the years, controversies have also raged over hot-faced drivers, grooves and the size of clubheads, among other equipment-related top-ics.

In theory then, recreational players won’t be able to use long putters, or golf balls that will allow them to enjoy the game more and the argument is that the USGA and R&A are only mak-ing themselves irrelevant to the masses with every rule they dole out.

At a time when the game is attempt-ing to lure newcomers, take a second and pretend you’re somebody getting into golf.

How confused would you be if the PGA Tour, one of the most high profile entities in the game, allows anchored put-ting, but an event like the

British Open doesn’t? That’s a very real possibility at this point with the tour’s resistance to the proposed ban.

This isn’t a diatribe calling for anar-chy. Rules are a part of any game, but they aren’t the central focus in other sports that they are in golf and the cen-tre of one controversy after another.

By all means, teach the rules and eti-quette of the game to recreational golf-ers, particularly juniors, in the hopes

that they will want to get into competi-tion as they advance in the game, but fun is the primary motivation for get-ting into it. Put the emphasis on that instead.

About the only thing that rec golfers have with players in the upper echelon of the game and even officials at the elite level, is that they all don’t seem to have a complete grasp on the very rules that golf ’s governing bodies are attempting to force upon them. ▪

Ian Hutchinson

OPINION

Ian Hutchinson is a veteran Canadian golf writer,

whose history in the game includes an extensive

background with Canadian golf trade publications. A

golf columnist with Sun Media, Hutch is also a regular

contributor to publications and websites in Canada

and the United States.

M AT U R E 1 8 C H A M P I O N S H I P D E S I G N

G O L F & R I D E

FA M I LY G O L F

O P E N T O T H E P U B L I CM E M B E R S H I P S AVA I L A B L E

w w w. c a m b r i d g e g o l f c l u b . c o m

1346 Clyde Road, Cambridge | 519-621-5491

after 11am$48 weekdays$58 weekends

weekends after 3pmjuniors play FREEwith paying adult

F R I D AY - D AT E N I G H T

R E N O VAT E D C L U B H O U S E

9 holes, driving range& dinner for $35/person

expanded banquet hallequals more space fortournaments, weddings,meetings, parties

SEE

WHAT’S

NEW


Interesting design as the putter

essentially is faceless - instead

utilizing a smooth cylindrical

shape which should, in theory, all

but eliminate mis-hits due to loft.

Whether the hands are too far

forward or behind does not directly

impact the angle of the face at

impact.

The look takes a little getting used to,

but once we got comfortable over the

ball we did find that distance control

was not adversely affected by, for

example, shallowing the angle of

attack. So there is a direct benefit for

those who may suffer from changes

to effective loft.

We also found that the ball had

a little less 'pop' off of the face -

perhaps due to less actual surface

area contacting the ball, but like all

putters there is a courting period.

The upside to less pop and hop off

the face is also less spin which helps

to get the ball rolling toward the hole

with reduced skidding.

We did have some minor difficulty

with alignment (making short putts)

but chalked that up to the fact that

with us putters tend to be a 'visual'

thing, in addition to the fact that our

demo clubs were not specifically 'fit'

for us. Given more time we're pretty

certain that we could have gotten

things dialed in - which makes all the

difference when it comes to putting

and confidence on the short grass.

We were definitely making more putts

near the end of the session.

It's a solid putter - but the putter

more than any other club in the bag is

a personal thing, so next time you're

in a shop that carries the TRU ROLL -

you give it a twirl of your own.

a little time on the greens with a couple of TRU ROLL putters

the headcover is great, but what my putter really needs is a pair of ear muffs

DEMO DAYDEMO DAY

ROLLING IN THE DEEP

The Golf Club at

Lower Daily & Group Rates

A Top 50 Course You Can Play

A Thomas McBroom / Tom Lehman DesignTEXT LoraBay to 81018 to become a loya lty member& rece ive spec ia l of fers in 2013 !

109 East Ridge Drive, Thornbury, Ontario | 519.599.7500 x407www.lorabaygolf .com


STYLE

With only 7 being made worldwide, chances are pretty good that you are absolutely never ever going to actually see one – except right here. or where we fou nd it - i n the Style

section of golfscen e. ca

we're gu e ssi ng the golf setti ng wou ld be the slowest? - a nd that it wou ld be u sed the lea st?

The limited edition roadster is from Garia is called the Mansory Currus and it was designed in close collaboration with Mansory, the car customizer famous for customizing luxury super cars such as Bentley, Bugatti, and Ferrari. The Garia Mansory Currus, of which only 7 will be manufactured and available for

sale, comes with signature Mansory luxury features such as dashboard in genuine leather, custom seat, and carbon fiber rear body and many other details. For a genuine race car feel, it also comes with an adjustable setting for maximum motor braking and battery regeneration while driving as well as a speed switch with different driving modes called Golf, Street and Race, which adjust top speed and acceleration parameters. These settings are unique to Garia Mansory Currus and not available on any other golf cars currently on the market. It is fitted with lithium batteries for an extended range of up to 60 km and a speed package for increased speeds of up to 60 km/h.

LIMITED EDITION

GOLF IN THE FAST LANE


“CAROLANNE DOIG is a member of the Doig Family, Owners of the Seaforth Golf Club.

THE TARTAN CHAMELEON

The definition of a stroke does not identify

anything about anchoring the club to the chest, chin, or forearm.

LET’S qUIT WHINING AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! I’m not talking about the weather because in spite of the fact that as Canadians we’re always whining about it, truth be known

we can’t do a darned thing to change it. The issue is pace of play, not just with golfers, but with rules officials, golf administrators, and the powers that be in the upper ech-elons of our great sport.

As a former member of town council I am reminded that policies are not worth the paper they’re printed on unless someone has the intestinal fortitude to enforce them. It matters not whether we’re talking about double parking, speeding tickets, unkempt properties, or rules in golf. Write all you want, quote all you want, but unless rules are enforced they mean nothing.

Take slow play – yes, take it please – take it right out of the game. According to the rules of golf the player is responsible for not unduly delay-ing play and for playing in accordance with any pace of play guidelines set out by the committee. Most golf course operators think that a four hour recreational round is 'reasonable' and Golf Canada must agree as the Pace of Play sheet on display at our club allows for 4 hours and 1 minute. In actual fact we have a multitude of four-balls that achieve this time line and still score well but we also have a multitude that come no-where near this pace. Remember this pace is for a recreational round with four golf-ers of varying skill levels in a group! Pros are taking more than five hours! Yes they are playing for bigger bucks and on tougher courses but remember also that they are playing in three-balls and two-balls and they are the pros! What golfers see on tele-vision is what they emulate and this is the problem as both players and fans constantly

complain about excruciatingly long rounds yet nothing seems to be done.

The problem is that although slow play penalties are issued on occasion at amateur tournaments around the country the pros are seldom held accountable. The pen-alty for slow play, if someone can actually determine who the slow player is, is two strokes, a hefty penalty for sure whether it’s a friendly game with your buddies or a close competition for the trophy. A two stroke penalty for a pro has an almost immeasur-able cost, miss the cut make no money, miss your card make no money, or lose a title and who can measure it?

There are paid rules officials on the course during all competitive rounds on the

PGA Tour, yet these same rules of-ficials armed with their rule books, pace of play guidelines, decisions

books, and stop watches have not issued a two stroke penalty for slow play in twenty years! On the other hand the LPGA has chosen to develop a more stringent pace of play guideline and actually enforce the penalty outlined in the original rules of golf. The result has been that several women professionals have suffered the most griev-ous of penalties that have had serious impli-cations on the event’s outcome. To almost everyone’s delight most LPGA rounds have speeded up … so it works!

Each of the professional tours has modi-fied the slow play rule to suit itself some-what and this is where it gets confusing. PGA Tour players are given reasonable pace of play guidelines, are given a warning that they are 'on the clock' and in the end endure a monetary fine instead of strokes. Frankly, a few thousand dollars has little impact on a player winning millions, but a two stroke penalty that might cause him to miss the cut

OPINION


and make zilch would certainly get everyone’s attention. The LPGA Tour hands out the two strokes and allows the players less time on their pace of play guidelines. Research showed that The European Tour penalized Ross Fisher only a single stroke for slow play, plus a fine. Different modi-fications with, as expected, varying results. The game of golf has been played for hundreds of years and the basic goals and objectives have remained the same whereby rules are designed to protect the players and the integrity of the game. However, if the rules are not enforced promptly and consistently it simply causes confusion and apathy. After the slow play penalty of one shot was issued at the Mas-ters to the young Chinese amateur, it made me happy to see that slow play penalties were being enforced. However, although I hate to be cynical, I wonder if a fine might have been issued instead had the player been a professional and not an amateur. The controversy caused by this incident as well as the Tiger Woods water hazard drop only highlights the need for a better understanding of the rules as well as consistent enforcement of them.

This brings me to the proposed incoming rule about an-choring the long putter. The long putter has been used by golfers including pros for over twenty years. Players have tampered with shaft lengths and the posture, grip, and stroke that worked best for them. Tournaments including Majors have been won with the long putter. It has been used on every tour around the world and today even some of the younger generation have added it to their equipment. Success with the long putter has resulted in financial suc-cess for the equipment companies who are constantly try-ing to come up with innovative designs that help a player enjoy golf more. Once again, what golfers see on television is what they emulate so the long putter has become an op-tion for amateurs of all calibres and has also allowed many with back problems to continue to play.

Now after over twenty years of watching professional golfers, elite amateurs, and run of the mill Sunday morning hackers, use the long putter with varying degrees of suc-cess, the powers that be want to remove it based on the premise that it’s not the equipment but how it’s being used that is in violation of our rule book. The definition of a stroke does not identify anything about anchoring the club to the chest, chin, or forearm. In rule 14 it says that the ball must be fairly struck at with the head of the club and must not be pushed, scraped, or spooned. I have not seen any violation of this when watching golfers implement the belly putter or the long putter.

Although I disagree with the direction the numerous golf associations are taking on this controversial subject, including the possibility of bifurcation, my main concern is that the longer it takes for the final verdict to be presented, the more confusing and frustrating it will be for golfers at all levels. Waiting a few more years before the 'new rule', if it is approved, actually takes effect makes it even worse. The delay impacts everything from equipment sales to tournament rules to record keeping and ultimately to the plain and simple enjoyment of our game.


Access-ibility

the importance of the muni

Thames Valley Golf Club - image courtesy City of London


GOLFSCENE (GS): How would you com-pare municipal public courses to private clubs?

STEVE BENNETT (SB): Private courses have had to be very creative lately to at-tract the 'pre baby-boom' golfer. Where-as private clubs are typically more ex-pensive and less accessible, we at the municipal public course are able to satisfy all demograph-ics and income levels … how-ever a large amount of our golfer population is 55 plus in age. In some instances golfers have left the pri-vate clubs, migrated south for the winter and now split their membership dollar at a Florida club (winter) and here at the public course during the summer.

GS: So you are saying a percentage of golfers you see have decided to forego the private membership to play in the public system?

SB: Yes, but there are also members of private clubs that have been members for 30 years with a disposable income to support that membership … we will not see them moving. Recession or not, a golfer will always be a golfer and find a facility to play at. Golf is a game for a lifetime.

GS: What are the London Municipal courses doing to make golf more acces-sible and capture more junior play.

SB: Since I have started with the city of London in 2010, we have encouraged a strong junior presence. We took a look at the price structure and felt we were overcharging. Our limited membership now starts at $50 to our full junior mem-

bership of $250. We have approximately 250 junior members in the system today (up 30% since 2010, due in large part to price adjustments). We have 4 junior camps running in the summer and les-sons in the winter. However, I find we are really competing with technology. Meaning that we need to get kids on the

golf course rather than in front of a TV or a tablet playing video games. I see this being a big is-sue when it comes to physical

activity and sports. Golf teaches valu-able social skills, respect, trust etc … but we have to find ways to get more youth exposed to the game!

GS: I remember when I was a kid, a lot of juniors would strap their clubs on their back and ride their bike to the club. With you being located in the heart of London, do you see this?

SB: We see golfers taking bikes and buses to get here … however the city bus does not quite come to the club. We need an expansion of the LTC bus route. That would help us.

GS: What is your prediction when the 'baby-boomers' are no longer able to play?

SB: We have more leaving the game than those coming in. Golf has always been viewed as the rich person’s game … but the municipal courses are helping to combat that stereotype. Our mandate here is to be Affordable, Accessible and Amazing - we are still working on the amazing part. Every business strives for this. We would like to get into the Golf in School Programs, however we are still

@robfoster15

GolfScene contributor Rob Foster sat down with the General Manager / Head Golf Professional for the City of London Golf Courses, Steve Bennett, to talk about the golf industry, accessibility at municipal courses and helping a young Mike Weir develop his game prior to becoming a Canadian Golf icon.

The City of London Municipal Courses consist of 90 Holes of golf between three golf properties; Thames Valley, Fanshawe Golf Club & River Road Golf Club.

IN CONVERSATION

BACKGROUNDSteve Bennett's career in the golf industry started in 1978 in Sarnia at a place called Canterbury Country Club. There he worked under Neil Armstrong who was a linesman in the NHL at the time. In 1981 Canterbury was sold, but he stayed on and became the head golf professional at the age of 23, where he remained for 14 years.Next Steve took the opportunity to become the head pro of the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club where he stayed for 11yrs. In that time Huron Oaks (Semi-Private) went into receivership (2003) and Steve ended up there for 6 years to help rebuild the business. And took the membership to 500 members. In 2010 Steve arrived at Thames Valley Golf Club where he works today.

BIGGEST LESSONSteve's biggest business lesson coming from a private facility to a public one is that there are no guarantees in the public realm … members, green fee players, tournaments etc can move easily from year to year if they choose.

q&A


working on a good business plan mov-ing forward. There has been a lot of focus on our River Road property to ensure financial stability. It’s getting better!

GS: Steve you have been in the in-dustry for over 35 years. What do you see as the biggest change?

SB: (insert laughter) Where do you want to start?

GS: Let’s start with accessibility.SB: More accessible to the point

where we are over-saturated. Too many options and not enough golf-ers. When River Road GC was built in 1992, the industry was in a mode of thinking … 'build it and they will come' and it had some success. Every-one was building golf courses. Today think of the industry as a 'Pie' - how is it going to get cut? And who will get the largest piece?

There is a lot of choice for the con-sumer today. Pricing is getting to the point where operators are dropping discounting without a plan. The ques-tion remains … if I drop the price, will I gain that back plus a profit in vol-ume? The savvy operators know their customers, know when people are playing, and what inspires them to be loyal. Unfortunately for course opera-tors, we have 'giving golf away' for the same price we were charging 15 years

ago. And as a result we are seeing a lot of courses cutting expenses to stay profitable. We are asking our staff to do a lot more for the same money.

GS: Do you find that the London market is saturated with courses?

SB: Yes but we need to find a way to set ourselves apart from the competi-tor. We need to do this through value added programs and be price appro-priate. The city with multiple courses in 2012 did 128,000 rounds of golf.

GS: What is your view on coupon-ing?

SB: Don’t agree with it! The city is in the NGCOA Redbook which, as a member, we are proud to support. But we don’t do couponing as a general rule, rather I would like to enhance the customer experience by giving them something … the perceived value is what customers are assessing. One of our biggest programs was our 'Early Bird' membership drive in the fall of 2012. Ultimately, you need to understand your customer and know what will inspire them to be loyal to your business.

We need to get the story out that we are at the grass roots of the industry helping to keep golf affordable and accessible. We are the 'Foot Soldiers' of the industry. As a municipal public facility our purpose is to help golfers

grow within the game and perhaps be a member of a private club some-day. We are the starting point of golf. It is my belief that we are the 'staple' of the community to grow golf for the private clubs in the area. But as I mentioned earlier, this is also contin-gent on disposable income and the al-mighty entertainment dollar.

THE MIKE WEIR CONNECTION

GS: At what point where you intro-duced to Mike Weir? How did that relationship develop?

SB: I met Mike in 1981 at Huron Oaks, he was 11 years old. He even-tually worked in the back shop and as a range attendant at the club. He wanted to learn the game. At the age of 14 he told me that he wanted to play on the PGA tour. As a golf pro-fessional I started teaching him the game and we have developed a great friendship over the years. He left for BYU (Brigham Young University) to pursue a golf scholarship … I traveled with him in his college years.

Looking back I did not realize how strong minded he was. He had goals. He asked a lot of questions. His com-mittment to the game was exceptional at a young age to the point where he was on the range most of the day hit-ting balls, then he would chip and putt at night and his Mom would bring

Fanshawe Golf Club

comparing what we paid for the green fee has become the game within the game

him dinner … he knew what he want-ed. When he left for college, I said no matter what make sure you get a good education. He looked at me and said, “Pro, it won’t matter I’m gonna play on the PGA tour”

Mike simply wanted to learn and we communicated well. “We just clicked … he understood me and I understood him” Get the ball in the hole as quick as possible - that is the whole key to golf.

GS: The Masters this year (10th an-niversary of the win) must have been very special for Mike and a lot of Ca-nadians.

SB: It still seems like yesterday that Mike won the Masters and most peo-ple can still say, “On April 13th, 2003… I remember where I was watching the tournament” Through Mike, the Mas-ters has allowed me to meet people from all around the world. The game

of golf has brought us together. At the Masters I’m the house chef for Mike and his guests for the week. I love it!

GS: Through your access at the Masters, what has been your biggest 'brush with greatness?'

SB: Several celebrities have come to the house. Musician Tom Cochrane, baseball legend Joe Carter to mention a couple but the biggest thrill for me was when Mike won the Masters in 2003 … we entered the Butler Cabin and I had the opportunity to meet William 'Hootie' Johnson (Former Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club). When proceeding through the reception line I introduced myself to Hootie as Mike’s golf pro at Huron Oaks where Mike grew up as a junior … he looked at me straight in the eye and said “You should be so proud”. That is something I will always re-member.

GS: It says a lot about Mike’s char-acter to include you in his Masters ex-perience after all these years ...

SB: Mike hasn’t changed. He is the exact same person after all these years. He is a dear friend.

business.humber.ca

TURN THE GAME YOU LOVE INTO A BUSINESS CAREER.PROFESSIONAL GOLF MANAGEMENT DIPLOMA PROGRAM

13809 Golf Diploma Ad - Golf Scene:Layout 1 5/2/12 11:01 AM Page 1

GOLF | TOURNAMENTS | LESSONS | LEAGUES | PRACTICE DINING | BANQUETS | MEETINGS | WEDDINGS | AND MORE

Copetown Woods is more than just the area’s top public golf course. Our Victorian styleClubhouse is open year round to the public for dining, birthday parties, Christmas parties, BarMitzvah and meetings. Our practice facility is the perfect place to hone your skills, or get a golflesson from one of our qualified teaching Professionals.

Facebook.com/CopetownWoods

Twitter.com/CopetownWoods

For more information please visit www.copetownwoods.com or 905-627-4653

More than a golf course ... much more!

THERE IS A LOT OF TECHNOLOGY that goes into managing turf on a golf course. There are a lot of techniques and strategies we as profes-sional Turf Managers use to whip our course into shape as quickly as possible. Creating a plan and imple-menting it in a proactive way is a good recipe for success in most cases. How-ever, there is one teeny tiny ... well actually really big variable and that is the weather.

As a Turf Professional I try to consciously wear two hats. My 'Turf ' hat and my 'Golfer' hat. My 'Turf ' hat has me concerned about the turf day and night, looking for effective strategies to provide the best experience to the golfer, protect the asset which is the golf course and complain about the weather. My

'Golfer' hat can't wait to get on the course, doesn't think about the weather from two days ago and wants respectable playing

conditions always. Oh yeah, and It also has me complaining about the weather.

I believe as effective Superintendents we must do our best to understand both per-spectives and continuously wear both hats. Many golf courses opened later than they originally expected this spring. My 'Golfer' hat is still expecting the same conditions that I received last year at this time regardless of the comparison in the weather. My 'Turf ' hat is trying to get the course in shape, but also realizes that this spring has not even been comparable to last year and Mother Nature

GREEN SIDE UP

Mother Nature Can be a Real... Um Challenge

TURF

TOM MARGETTS is a soil and turf consultant.

He was a Golf Course Superintendent for 11

years, holds a Diploma in Horticulture from the University of Guelph in

addition to being a licensed Technicial Agrologist and

a certified independent agronomist.

@tommargetts

“My 'Golfer' hat wants to take a cart, would prefer nothing is aerated (although I do understand the importance) and putt on fast greens.

has been a real... um challenge lately. My 'Golfer' hat wants to take a cart, would prefer nothing is aerated (although I do un-derstand the importance) and putt on fast greens. My 'Turf ' hat is praying on my knees for four consistent days of warm weather to raise soil temperatures and start growing grass. You can have all the technology and tricks but nothing really happens until the soil temperatures increase and Mother Na-ture makes that decision.

As a 'Golfer' I will continuously try to appreciate the chal-lenges of the weather and the effort my Maintenance Staff does to prepare the golf course. With my 'Turf ' hat I will al-ways try to be aware of the impact on the golf course and the golfer.

Consistency is an important goal Turf Professionals strive for in an inconsistent environment where Mother Nature can be a real ... um challenge.

GOLF | TOURNAMENTS | LESSONS | LEAGUES | PRACTICE DINING | BANQUETS | MEETINGS | WEDDINGS | AND MORE

Copetown Woods is more than just the area’s top public golf course. Our Victorian styleClubhouse is open year round to the public for dining, birthday parties, Christmas parties, BarMitzvah and meetings. Our practice facility is the perfect place to hone your skills, or get a golflesson from one of our qualified teaching Professionals.

Facebook.com/CopetownWoods

Twitter.com/CopetownWoods

For more information please visit www.copetownwoods.com or 905-627-4653

More than a golf course ... much more!

wish they would have told me they'd be aerating these greens when I booked my discount online six weeks ago

Enjoy over a dozen courses including Santee National Golf Club during your Fall Stay in beautiful Santee, S.C. Stay in the convenient golf course villas, beautiful waterfront condos overlooking Lake Marion, or one of our full service hotels.

Santee, South Carolina • www.GolfSantee.com • 1-800-345-7888

3 Nights & 3 Rounds this Fall for $226 US

FALL SPECIALS

Instant Custom Quotes O

nline

Voted by Golf Digest Places

GOLFSOUTH CAROLINA

GSA-I173-Golf-Scene-Ad-FINAL.indd 1 4/19/13 2:29 PM

OTTER cREEk On facEbOOk andyOu cOuld win fREE gOlf!

Book a tee time today! Call 519-879-9800275 James Street, Otterville N0J 1R0

www.ottercreekgolfclub.comwww.facebook.com/OtterCreekGolfClub

GolfScene0514_Layout 1 13-05-15 4:44 PM Page 1


.caNEWS | TIPS | GEAR | STYLE | MEDIA | TRAVEL | PLACES TO PLAY

The region’s online source for golf news, new equipment, apparel, photos, videos,

destinations, and of course that next place to play

Our totally responsive website reacts to whatever screen size and/or device you choose to access us with ... no need to download anything

www.golfscene.ca/PLAY

MORE AT GOLFSCENE.CA


KNOW YOUR #s

G A M E I M P R O V E M E N T

Hey golfers! It is great to see that the weather has warmed up and the practice facilities are getting busier, but I'm curious ... are you working on the correct parts of your game? As coach of Whistle Bear's junior team and when working with touring professionals we always have a plan. One of issues we focus on is to actively assess and target the weaker areas of an individual's game. From here we can start to lower scores.

Here are our issues.

1. How do we know what areas of our game are the weak areas?

2. How do we tell how weak these areas of our game are?

To find the answer we have to find the key elements that make up the game of golf and we have to find a way to measure and track these elements. The parts of the game that are the most commonly tracked are,

• FAIRWAYS HIT

• GREENS IN REGULATION

• PUTTS PER ROUND

• SCRAMBLING (SAND SAVES & UP AND DOWNS)

Once the categories are in place, how do we measure each one? First you have to track these stats during or after each round. We are fortunate that in today's age there are software applications that will calculate our findings and give us results.

Once we start to track these stats and enter enough rounds we will begin to see a trend and with some averages will have something to compare these stats to. Here are some tour leaders.

• FAIRWAYS HIT 73.13%

• GREENS IN REGULATION 71.96%

• PUTTS PER ROUND 27.24%

• SCRAMBLING (SAND SAVES& UP AND DOWNS) 72.46%

These are the stats of the best players in the world but it should help you to set your own standards and allow you to target the areas of your game that need the most attention to improve your scoring. My professional staff and I would be thrilled to help you assess the areas that need improvement in your game. We can also help improve your mechanics as well as outline a practice schedule and necessary drills to help you on the path to lower scores.

Dave SmallwoodPGA of Canada Director of Instruction▪ 28 Year member of the CPGA▪ Ontario Tournament Director Maple Leaf Junior Tour▪ Swing Coach University of Waterloo Mens Golf Team▪ Head Coach Whistle Bear Junior PerformanceTeam

IF YOUR SERIOUS ABOUT YOUR GAME COME SEE US AT THE GPC

Photos : Steve Woods

ON THE SCENE

Spring 201354

BLACK TO THE DRAWING BOARDAN AFTERNOON AT MODERN GOLF

I M A G E S & A S I D E S

In this crazy game, most would agree just keeping the ball in play is challenge enough. Add to that the challenges of keeping up with the ever changing equipment technol-ogy and you've got an increasingly complex conundrum to solve and resolve nowadays. Yet, answers to these questions are precisely what helps us to keep that little white ball in play we suppose - and or keep it in the air a little longer. In a single afternoon at Modern Golf it's safe to say we ac-complished both. And all without changing a thing our swing.

To suggest Modern golf is just another fitting facility would require an asterisk* - this is about as advanced an operation as we've seen - anywhere. Completely brand ag-nostic, the goal of the Modern Golf team is to match any player (of any ability) with the equipment that best works for them. The process is to demonstrate results. Selling clubs is secondary, although be warned, it will be very tempting once you've seen the results. Not to mention the uber-cool custom options / finishes they have available. It's the ideal blend of show and sell without any of the retail pressure. Basically, you pay for an analysis of your swing and with that information you decide how to proceed. It's an investment in unbiased knowledge. Which in our books is a whole lot better safer than relying on somebody's agen-da and or HOT LIST.

ASIDE


* 13,000 square feet of game improvement technology in an urban style environment - where every tiny detail has been addressed - right down to the receptionist's Scottish accent

ON THE SCENE : INSIDE MODERN GOLF

First things first - getting an assessment of the clubs currently in the bag. This was interesting in the sense that many of our current sets base numbers were 'off' and inconsistent. Modern Golf calls this the BLUEPRINT.After the fitting process you will also receive a file called the PRESCRIPTION. This is the fix, the changes that will provide optimum results. In our case, an 8 yard increase in distance was quickly found with a newer (cavity supported) 6 iron. On the driver side we were working off of a current model and a 'fitted' club, yet were still able to find moderate distance gains and, more importantly, better dispersion yields via shaft change - and its effective decrease to spin rates.

SceneGolf TM Spring 201356

The final step in the process is the build shop - where even the smallest details garner big time attention. These guys have just about everything but the lab coats - no experimenting going on here though, just getting it absolutely right. To suggest the clubs that leave the shop are technically sound would be an understatement. And they can customize everything and anything - including changing the finish on drivers and irons etc - making it the ideal place to create a truly unique set of clubs.

Housed in the trendy 13,000 square foot facility are no less than 3 full size hitting bays. Trackman handles the calculations while expert fitters challenge the numbers as well as the traditional conventions ... Case in point - during our fitting a shorter driver shaft was suggested and tested - basic math would predict that shorter length shafts produce less clubhead speed and subsequent losses in distance - all true, and exactly why the standard driver shaft length has increased over the years, but what has that got to with smash factor? - well, everything and nothing.

Even with 460cc drivers hitting the sweet spot is still critical nowadays and terms like smash factor, spin rate, and effective loft will make much of a difference than the things you can tweak with a wrench.

And any single change to any of the individual elements effects all of the others simultaneously. Which is an extremely important bit of knowledge to remember the next time you decide to make changes without crunching the numbers.



400

40089

89

10

4

6

11

11

24

21

26

400

141

6

124

9

99

Barrie

Orillia

Gravenhurst

Bracebridge

Huntsville

Collingwood

Walkerton

Owen Sound

Southampton

Kincardine

Tobermory

Muskoka Lakes

Mount Forest

401

401

2

2

402

3

40

21

21

Sarnia

Grand Bend

Chatham

Windsor

Amherstburg

Arthur

Kitchener

Cambridge

Guelph

Hamilton

Brantford

Tillsonburg

Woodstock

London

Stratford

Seaforth

Goderich

Mississauga

Oakville

Brampton

Toronto

Niagara Falls

Waterloo

FergusListowel

St. Thomas

Orangeville

Fort Erie

Dunnville

St Catharines

Simcoe

Port Colborne3

3

QEW

401

400

10

QEW

25

20

5

40656

24

401

24

86

86

401402

8

403

6

404

7

6

407

9

9

7

As golfers, we are very lucky to be living within a region with so many great golf options. New and old. Parkland or links. Private and public. There is something for everyone - let’s get out and PLAY!

check out some of the great regional options on the next page

► and online as more courses are being added ...

PLACES TO PLAY

CHEDOKE is home to two wonderful city run 18-hole public courses (Martin & Beddoe). These mature, tree lined layouts are both nestled into the roll-ing parkland landscape of the stunning Niagara Escarpment. Location, location, location ... just five minutes from downtown Hamilton and easily accessible off Highway 403 at Aberdeen Avenue.

KING’S FOREST is located in the heart of the pic-turesque Red Hill Valley and at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment. Without a doubt one of the premier public golf facilities in the province and, subsequently, also one of the busiest, averaging 42,000 rounds annually over the last five years.

KING’S FOREST is located in the heart of the pic-turesque Red Hill Valley and at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment. Without a doubt one of the premier public golf facilities in the province and, subsequently, also one of the busiest, averaging 42,000 rounds annually over the last five years.

LOWVILLE is central to Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Hamilton and Mississauga. Built along the Niag-ara Escarpment, the course has many panoramic vistas and views. Lowville Golf Club blends natural beauty with a challenging 18 hole layout. The Toronto Star’s ‘Bogey Man’, gave it most scenic and most improved club honours.

BRAEBEN is, in simplest terms – beyond expecta-tions. The highlands links inspired 18 hole cham-pionship design boasts an overall imprint and at-tention to detail that can only be fully appreciated in person. A unique golfing experience, the City of Mississauga run BraeBen is as comprehensive a full-service public facility as you will find.

CHEDOKE

KING'S FOREST

CITY OF HAMILTON

KING'S FOREST

LOWVILLE

BRAEBEN

HIGHLANDS

CARDINAL GOLF CLUB is Canada’s largest golf facility, with 72 holes of golf including: three 18 hole championship courses, an 18 hole executive course, large driving range, 18 hole mini-putt, C.P.G.A. staffed Golf Academy, and two unique Clubhouses. Cardinal Golf Club is sure to exceed your expectations.

HORSESHOE RESORT

THE GOLF CLUB AT LORA BAY, nestled in the Blue Moun-tains, overlooking Georgian Bay, offers a playable round of golf that pays tribute to historic rural Ontario. Designed by the PGA Tour's, Tom Lehman and renowned Canadian Architect, Thomas McBroom, it was sculpted to inspire players both visually and technically.

THE VALLEY COURSE at Horsehoe Resort is an 18 hole, 6,202 yard layout with a 71 par and 131 slope. The perfect mix of challenging holes and playabil-ity make the Valley Course an ejoyable experience for all levels of player. Add to that an incredibly picturesque environment and you have the mak-ings of a memorable round.

THE HIGHLANDS COURSE at the Horseshoe Resort boasts spectacular views of rolling hills and lush grass which compliment the championship course's challenging design. Home to professional events such as the 2006 Canadian Tour Cham-pionship, the par 71 layout consistently ranks among the top courses in the province.

Here at GolfScene we know - what all of those self-titled social media experts are still learning - that it is less about the how than it is about the why and where ... so the why part is simple - you love this game - and the where part is, well, RIGHT HERE

PLACES TO PLAY

CARDINAL

LORA BAY

VALLEY

CAMBRIDGE GOLF CLUB is an inviting, golfer-friendly, 18 hole facility that is always well managed and manicured to ensure a consistently great golf ex-perience. Come in and check out the renovations to the clubhouse. At Cambridge, we are always finding ways to improve the facility and make your next round even more enjoyable.

WHIRLPOOL GOLF COURSE is one of Canada’s most highly rated and renowned public golf courses. Designed by famous golf course architect Stanley Thompson, the course officially opened on July 2, 1951. By mid-1980 this enduring classic, consistently rated one of the best public courses in Canada, course had seen its one-millionth player.

ELMIRA is located just outside Elmira in a quiet country setting approximately 15 minutes north of Waterloo. Situated in the Eldale Valley, the course rolls gently across the picturesque country-side, creating unique views from every tee deck. It’s the sort of place that reminds you why you play this game ... and leaves a yearning to return.

SEAFORTH GOLF CLUB is a mature and challenging golf course, with the rich tradition of hospital-ity and friendliness of small town Ontario. The course is located on 100 unspoiled, un-crowded and uncommonly beautiful acres in the heart of southwestern Ontario.

OAKVILLE EXECUTIVE is a 36 hole facility which runs adjacent to the scenic Sixteen Mile creek and valley. Both of which enhance an already beautiful natural landscape. 10 strategically placed ponds and 90 bunkers line the fairways and guard the greens making both Angel's View and Mystic Ridge formidable challenges and a joys to play.

COPETOWN WOODS represents not only one of the newest championship courses in south-western Ontario, but also one of the finest. The meticulous condition of the course, and the yester-year beau-ty of the Victorian-style clubhouse provide old world charm. The facility is consistently ranked among the top golfing values in all of Ontario.

BATTLEFIELD, on the north side of the Legends on the Niagara property, is Architect Douglas Car-rick's unique and challenging creation. Host to the 2004 Canadian Women's Open, Battlefield features fairways that sweep across a gently con-toured countryside, providing breathing from the tee and on approaches to the greens.

CROSSWINDS provides a majestic natural setting that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of today’s modern world. This 18-hole championship layout is designed to challenge the lowest handi-capper while rewarding a novice’s shot-making skills. Choose the correct tee blocks and Cross-winds will provide the test you’re looking for.

HIDDEN LAKE is a 36 hole semi-private facility that offers the public an opportunity to play the course of their choice. Golfers are split between the tradi-tional charm of the Old Course and the nouveau stylings of the New Course. Both courses have been painstakingly sculpted to create interesting and demanding contours. Challenge awaits.

USSHER'S CREEK, on the south side, is one of Tom McBroom's finest masterpieces. You'll encounter thick stands of deciduous trees, wetland hazards, knee-high fescue, and impeccable condition-ing from tee to green. A great mix of holes and numerous tee to green challenges ensures every shot is a memorable one.

SAWMILL CREEK

CAMBRIDGE

WHIRPOOL

ELMIRA OAKVILLE EXECUTIVE SEAFORTH

COPETOWN WOODS

LEGENDS ON THE NIAGARA

CROSSWINDS

HIDDEN LAKE

BATTLEFIELD USSHER'S CREEK

OTTER CREEK is located just 20 minutes from Woodstock. The stunning layout is deceptively hilly with several holes cut across the picturesque and wooded valleys of Otter, Cedar and Spittler Creeks. At just over 7,100 yards and with six sets of tees, the course plays to every golfer’s ability. Book your tee time today!

SAWMILL CREEK is located 5 minutes from the sandy shores of Lake Huron in Camlachie, Ontario fea-turing 18 holes of championship links style golf on impecably manicured bent grass tees, greens, and fairways. Our world class facility features over-night accomodations, practice range, spa retreat, and 3 superb dining venues.

OTTER CREEK

CALERIN GOLF CLUB is a 9 hole Doug Carrick design that is a real hidden treasure in the Niagara Escarpment. With two completely separate tee boxes, Calerin plays like a full 18. Fairways are first class at this course, as are the greens. There is an ample smattering of oddly shaped sand traps to watch out for throughout the course.

SCENIC WOODS GOLF CLUB is situated on the beautiful Niagara escarpment, just above Stoney Creek. The course offers an escape into the countryside, while being but a few minutes from the city.Designed by Rene Muylaert, Scenic Woods is a mature course, comprised of tree-lined fairways, intersected by the meandering Twenty Mile Creek.

BRANT VALLEY is a 5,493 yard championship layout nestled among rolling terrain that provides a unique experience for golfers of all abilities. Fairchild's Creek winds its way throughout the property and challenges players on 12 of the 18 holes. Elevation changes throughout add to the challenge and beauty of the course.

BURFORD GOLF LINKS is a quality 18 hole layout with a friendly atmosphere at an affordable price. Enjoy the challenge of this Par 71 design through both wooded and open areas. After your round, stay for a drink and some delicious food served at the Fairway’s Restaurant patio or lounge.

RIVER EDGE is a 9 hole public golf course designed by John F. Robinson with a championship attitude. Exquisitely maintained, River Edge offers golfers of a superlative golfing experience in the 21/2 hour range. Minutes from the 401 in Kitchener, River-Edge is surrounded by mature forest & unspoiled wetlands providing a sanctuary from city life.

BEAVERDALE GOLF CLUB is located eight kilometres north of the 401. A unique golfing experience, the course offers mature, well-treed fairways and has water in play on half of the holes. Beaverdale provides a challenge for golfers of every skill level and at 4759 yards the design demands shots of accuracy rather than length.

BROOKFIELD COUNTRY CLUB has been a local favourite for many years. Three challenging 9 hole courses offer multiple options for an 18 hole round. Brookfield is built on rolling terrain, so you might find some uneven lies and each shot poses a new shot selection. The fairways are wide, but water hazards come into play on 23 of 27 of them.

PARIS GRAND COUNTRY CLUB is only 15 minutes from the 401 and 403. Situated on a beautiful property bordering the Grand River, the course was redesigned by Azinger and Associates and is unparalleled in the area. Large greens, Ohio sand bunkers and bent grass tees and fairways offers the golfer an exceptional golfing experience.

ACTON GOLF CLUB was founded in 1968 and is an attractive course neatly tucked away on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment. The course plays through mature stands of oak, birch, maple and pine trees and was expanded to 18 holes in 1998.

PLACES TO PLAY

BURFORD

RIVER EDGE

BEAVERDALE

BROOKFIELD

PARIS GRAND

ACTON

CALERIN

SCENIC WOODS

BRANT VALLEY

There's little doubt that any one golf course operator can offer as much affordable golf with as many options in the area as

GolfNorth. More courses to play, more membership options, tournaments, weddings, banquets, etc - Serving up some of the very best semi-private and daily fee golf value right now, RIGHT HERE, AND HERE, AND THERE

CONESTOGA COUNTRY CLUB is a facility that features a number of attractive amenities including 27 holes of golf - being the main attraction. Professionally designed, Conestoga offers some of the most picturesque scenery anywhere in the province, along with lush rolling fairways and beautifully manicured greens.

FOXWOOD GOLF CLUB is a 27-hole facility located in Baden just 15 minutes from downtown Waterloo. It boasts an upscale practice range, putting green, chipping and bunker area. Considered one of the best in the region, there is a unique mix of holes over the vast layout, which proves to be a chal-lenging experience for golfers of all levels.

MYSTIC GOLF CLUB is a little different. And more than a little special. Located in Ancaster, Mystic broke the mold for daily fee golf in Ontario. Rather than trying to shoehorn a course between rows of fairway homes, or even selling a name architect, Mystic instead offers a unique experience for the serious, passionate golfer. A true test awaits.

ORANGEVILLE GOLF CLUB can be found nestled in the Credit River Valley. The 2800 yard design offers every challenge one could ask for while acom-modating every caliber of player who visits. Each hole of the 2800 yard course is well framed by large, matured trees. Large, undulating greens make putting an enjoyable challenge.

GREY SILO GOLF COURSE presents golfers with 18 breathtaking holes of championship golf. The links styled course has gained an outstanding reputation and respect from players of all abili-ties. The Grand River coupled with an unspoiled environment creates a setting for the game that is unprecedented.

OLIVER'S NEST is a championship 18-hole Graham Cooke designed course and practice facility. Built in 1996, the course and winds through 130 acres of gently rolling hills, among stands of century old cedar, oak, ash and pines. This picturesque course provides every level of golfer with a chal-lenging, yet fair game of golf.

KING'S BAY is a superb semi-private 3301-yard, 9-hole golf course located 10 minutes north of scenic Port Perry, in the town of Seagrave. Designed by Kevin Holmes, King's Bay opened its doors to the public in 2001 and is a design that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels and presents a formidable test from the right tees.

DUNDEE COUNTRY CLUB has provided golfers of the Kitchener/Waterloo area with a dignified combina-tion of scenic atmosphere and challenging golf since 1970. Thanks to almost four decades of maturation, Dundee is graced by many large and beautiful trees which provide both shelter and hazard for most of the 6,357 yards.

FERGUS GOLF CLUB offers 9 quietly sequestered holes laid out over 3160 yards. The course begins with 4 relatively open holes with few hazards, where golfers can usually extricate themselves from trouble. By the 3rd hole however, golfers must have their games settled for here the course tightens up significantly as it enters the trees.

COBBLE HILLS is a hidden gem in Southwestern Ontario that rests upon 110 acres of gently rolling terrain, weaving its way through majestic pine forests. The property boasts spectacular views of London to the southwest and stunning vistas of Oxford County to the southeast. Minutes east of London, Cobble Hills is an inviting getaway.

CEDAR CREEK'S most prominent feature is a winding creek that manages to affect shot making on four of the course’s nine holes. In addition to the wa-ter, large bunkers filled with Ohio sand have been strategically placed throughout the course making Cedar Creek a place where accurate shot making is required for a good score.

CANTERBURY GOLF CLUB is situated on the shore of Lake Scugog in the residential community of Canterbury Common. This Doug Carrick designed 9 hole course is Port Perry's most beautiful golf course. Ohio white sand bunkers and water haz-ards line the perimeters of fairways and greens to challenge players not at the top of their game.

CONESTOGA

FOXWOOD

MYSTIC GOLF CLUB OLIVER'S NEST ORANGEVILLE

GREY SILO KING'S BAY

DUNDEE FERGUS

COBBLE HILLSCEDAR CREEKCANTERBURY


1-A Doig Drive | Seaforth | Ontario | N0K 1W0

519-522-0985

www.seaforthgolf.com

Home of the # 1Rain Hood

in Golf

�e number one choicein rain protection among

pros on the PGA & LPGA Toursas well as amateur golfers

around the world

2013Seaforth Country

Classic OPENJuly 26-28, 2013

PRO-AM July 25th

COME AND VISIT US AT

HURON COUNTY’S

HOME OF GOLF

#1

Good enough for the world’s best golfer, good enough for us we suppose. Nike’s free inspired footwear gets a few tweaks to the tech (and already has a tour win). But more importantly

for us is the continuing evolution of golf from ho-hum recreational activity to full fledged sport. As for the FREES - the Nike TW’14s are designed to mimic and conform to the natural motion of the foot while still delivering all the protection and traction of a performance golf shoe. The innovative outsole allows close contact with the ground and promotes a better harnessing of the energy between the foot and ground. On the flipside, the new upper features improved ventilation delivering increased breathability. On a style note, these don't exactly go well with pants, but then again we're not playing on the PGA Tour so shorts will work (and look) just fine.

LIGHTERSTRONGER

FASTERFREE INSPIRED FOOTWEAR

NEW


CONTEST

THE AWESOME PACK10 ROUNDS AT ONE OF ONTARIO'S FINEST

10 PACK OF AWESOMEEnter to win a 10 pack of complimentary green fees to one of Ontario's finest championship courses (home to Nationwide and Telus skins events). The Golf Club at Lora Bay is located minutes from Collingwood making it a perfect spot for entertaining an ultimate stay and play getaway. Plan to bring the family or just the boys (or just the gals). Or, if you're local, you could always opt to keep them all to yourself and, having played the McBroom / Lehman design, we would totally understand. Any which way it's a win, win, win, win, win, win, win, win, win, and win.

TO ENTER VISIT www.golfscene.ca/contests

use the QR code on your smartphone to enter right now

SUMMERSceneGolf TM


LAST SHOTLAST SHOT

@jameslepp: It's true. Saucer pass deemed illegal by governing bodies. Thankfully, fun, birdies, and cart girls still allowed ... for now. #GoodRun

To no surprise the rules makers, in their infinite wisdom, have decided that the 'Saucer Pass' style of chipping made famous by Canadian golf pro, and founder of Kikkor Golf, James Lepp is in fact now illegal. We thought Lepp's response

via Twitter summed things up perfectly.

NO MORE SAUCE?

ok, back to whatever else I wasn't doing

The Ultimate Golf ExperienceThree exceptional courses, one spectacular location.

Only Ontario’s Niagara Parks offers three championship courses

in unparalleled scenic settings, just minutes from the natural won-

der of Niagara Falls. Play the classic Whirlpool course designed by

Stanley Thompson, or test your skill at the modern Legends on

the Niagara courses designed by Thomas McBroom and Doug

Carrick. A variety of great Play & Stay package options are available

with your choice of one or two nights’ accommodation at a pre-

ferred hotel partner, located close to casinos, night-life and all that

the Niagara region has to offer. Niagara Parks provides your best

shot at a great destination golf getaway.

Your Play & Stay Golf Destination

Sign up to receive VIP emails about special rates and download

our free Mobile App!

Go to: niagaraparksgolf.com/scene

Toll free: 866-465-3642

E-mail: [email protected]

HOME OF THE

FALLS

Play & Stay

$179

All Inclusive

Packages from

NPC_Scene Golf Ad_Layout 1 13-05-06 5:44 PM Page 1

Paula Creamer Michelle Wie Brittany LangDefending Champion

THE GIRLS ARE BACK IN TOWN!EXPERIENCE ALL THE EXCITEMENT AS THE MANULIFE FINANCIAL LPGA CLASSIC RETURNS TO WATERLOO!

Last year’s inaugural Manulife Financial LPGA Classic was the event of the summer in Waterloo, and players and spectators can’t wait for the 2013 tournament. Catch all the excitement as the top names in women’s golf including Stacy Lewis, Yani Tseng and Canada’s own Lorie Kane compete for the title once again at beautiful Grey Silo Golf Course. Children 15 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. Tickets are going fast, so purchase yours today!

July 10-14manulifeclassic.ca

golfscene spring 2013

Documents

golf administrators

golf industry

modern golf

copetown woods golf

pa page

canadian golf icon

city of london golf

valuable yards page