Welcome to the August edition of the Indiana Golf Journal It seems that just a couple of weeks ago it was spring and golf season was just beginning. Now its August and another summer is rapidly coming to an end, but never fear, there are plenty of opportunities remaining to play golf in Indiana, before Mother Nature indicates otherwise. Here are some newsworthy golf notes to consider as we transition into September. Indiana Girls HS Golf. The first official day of practice was August 2 with the first official matches held August 5. IHSAA Sectionals will be staged, September 20-23. Regionals will be conducted on September 28, with the State Finals to be played, October 4-5 at the Prairie View Golf Club. Up-and-Coming LPGA Standouts. The EPSON Tour will make another ‘pitstop’ in Indiana for the Four Winds Invitational at the South Bend Country Club, August 30-September 1. That’s a great weekend for watching golf in South Bend, since the Notre Dame football team is away at Texas A&M. Future Stars of the PGA Tour. Make plans to attend The Korn Ferry Tour Finals this year at French Lick’s Pete Dye Course, October 3-6. The top finishers will earn PGA Tour cards for next year. In addition to watching the golf, bring your clubs and play The Valley Course, or The Donald Ross Course, a historic championship course. Ace-in-the-Hole. I’d be remiss if I didn’t congratulate Indiana Golf Journal correspondent Len Ziehm for his recent hole-in-one. It took place on August 2 at the Cadillac Country Club’s annual memberguest on the 16th hole. His second lifetime hole-in-one was struck with an eight-iron from 120 yards. His other ace came at the age of 15, 65 years ago. Well done, sir! We hope you enjoy the wide variety of stories in this month’s edition of the Indiana Golf Journal and thank you to our advertisers, whose financial support makes it all possible. MIKE MAY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SUBSCRIBE Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Ohio Golf Journal Michigan Golf Journal American Golf Journal Back 9 Report Indiana Golf Journal
26 06 10 22 34 PGA Tour Storylines Saint John’s Resort Is One Of Michigan’s Best Charlie Woods Misses Cut At U.S. Junior Amateur BOYNE Golf Expands International Reach Treetops Donates Over $1.5 Million To Charity Kadin Gibson Wants Career In Golf Thank A Golf Course Superintendent Tips For Better Golf Health Reynolds Lake Oconee Voted Top 50 For Women Two Great Courses In Mid-Michigan Three Great Golf Destinations 06 10 18 22 26 14 16 30 34 36 24 White Wines Perfect For Apres’ Golf 29 Our Favorite Videos 39 FIND INSIDE Indiana Golf Journal is Published By Back 9 Media Group Publisher: Fred Altvater, USGTF Teaching Professional Advertise with Indiana Golf Journal, Contact us for more information Be sure to take advantage of the links to social media, videos and other content provided within the articles Indiana Golf Journal
Football season is about to start and that means the end of the PGA Tour regular season is rapidly approaching. After the Olympics, the Wyndham Championship, August 8-11, will be the final event before the season-ending playoffs. The Playoffs will begin with the FedEx St. Jude Championship in steamy Memphis, August 15-18 followed by the BMW Championship at Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado. The season will come to a conclusion following the Tour Championship at East Lake, August 29-September 1. With outside investment of $1.5 billion, the PGA Tour now has a sufficient war chest and does not need to rush to a compromise with Saudi-backed LIV Tour. A deal is still being worked out between the rival leagues, but a complete solution has not been completed yet. Television numbers are down across the board, so that can’t make current PGA Tour Storylines From The 2023-24 PGA Tour Season Television Viewership Declines sponsors happy. The ratings for the four major championships, when players from both the PGA Tour and the LIV were in the field, were the worst in recent memory. Golf fans have been negatively affected by the greed of the players and the split between the rival golf leagues. They are not watching their big screens as they have in the past. No one watches the LIV, even with the big names, they lured away from the PGA Tour. Fans seem to have lost enthusiasm for the PGA Tour broadcasts with names like, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, Cam Smith and Jon Rahm not available for PGA Tour events. This is a major issue for the PGA Tour, as well as all of golf going forward. Hopefully common sense will eventually win out and a deal that works for both leagues and fans will happen sooner than later. Indiana Golf Journal
This season saw the advent of the Signature events with purses of $20 million. They were an attempt to keep more players from defecting to the rival LIV and the top players were required to attend. The PGA Tour rewarded the big names that remained with eight limited field, huge purse events and gave fans a reason to watch. The Signature events were, The Sentry, AT&T Pebble Beach, The Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational, RBC Heritage, Wells Fargo, the Memorial and the Travelers Championship. Four were won by Scottie Scheffler with Rory McIlroy, Wyndham Clark, Hideki Matsuyama Signature Events and Chris Kirk capturing the remaining four events. This seems to have been a workable strategy for the PGA Tour and will continue in 2025. donned a second Green Jacket, in April, after winning The PLAYERS in March. In addition, he won the Arnold Palmer Invitational, RBC Heritage, The Memorial and the Travelers, all four were Signature events. He made the cut in all 16 events he entered this year and amassed 14 top ten finishes. He has a huge lead in the FedEx Cup point standings and has earned over $28 million this year. It appears that the Player of the Year race will come down to these two players and the winner will be determined by their respective performances in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Who is the Player of the Year? One of the decisions to be made, heading into the FedEx Cup Playoffs, is who will be named Player of the Year? By winning both the PGA Championship and The OPEN Championship last month at Royal Troon, Xander Schauffele may have the edge in the voting. Scottie Scheffler has been the number one ranked player in the world for nearly two years and won six events this year. He
Bryson DeChambeau What’s Wrong With Rory? The short answer to that question is nothing. He has two wins on tour this year, plus six top ten finishes, plus he earned over $10 million. He teamed with fellow Irishman, Shane Lowry to win the Zurich Classic and won the Wells Fargo Championship for the fourth time. He nearly won the U.S. Open, but missed putts on the 16th and 18th holes in the final round handed the title to DeChambeau. Critics point to these two putts as an issue for the three-time major champion, Ludvig Aberg One of the surprising players who has had a meteoric rise on the PGA Tour is Ludvig Aberg. Only one year removed from Texas Tech, the Swedish born Aberg has already played on the European Ryder Cup team, won a PGA Tour title and performed well in major championships. Currently he is ranked sixth in the FedEx Cup standings and fourth in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR). He only missed two cuts in 16 starts and has earned over $8 million. His runner-up finishes at Pebble Beach and The Masters, plus top five finishes at The Memorial and Troon, prove that his game is perfect for difficult golf courses and big events. He is already one of the best players on tour and could very well hoist the FedEx Cup Trophy at the end of the month. game with a deft touch around, as well as on the greens. Even though LIV players do not receive OWGR ranking points for LIV events, Bryson is ranked No. 9 in the world because of his performances in the four major championships this season. He recorded a sixth-place finish at the Masters, was runner-up at the PGA Championship to Xander Schauffele and won his second U.S. Open on Pinehurst No. 2. In addition, Bryson went out of his way to engage the crowds at Pinehurst and has become one of the more popular players. One of the surprises this golf season has been the maturation and dominance of Bryson DeChambeau’s game. He seems to be at the peak of his game right now and has successfully blended his prodigious long Indiana Golf Journal
but in reality, he is ranked third in the world and is still one of the most consistent players on tour. Rory has been one of the best golfers in the world since he turned professional and even It is dangerous to count out one of the two best golfers to ever play the game. He has proven time and time again that his drive to succeed and win is unmatched. Although his 2024 was not pleasant he will still be competing next season and fans will hang on every shot. In fact, the PGA Tour added an 80-career-win qualifier to their Signature tournament criteria which assures Tiger will get an invite to the big events. Is Tiger Woods Done? It appears that the PGA Tour has come through the worst of the LIV raiding parties, although I won’t be surprised if a few more take the guarantees and leave. New stars are being crowned on the PGA Tour and it is financially set for at least the next few years. The 202425 season will begin with the fall events, after the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Remember, the Masters is only 240 days away. It does appear that at 48 years old (turns 49 December 30) time and his surgically repaired body will not allow him to practice and perform at the optimum level. Walking a golf course is difficult for him and his stiff body does not respond well to adverse weather conditions. Fans should enjoy seeing him every time he tees it up and respect his career accomplishments, because his competitive years are well behind him. though he has not won major championships by the bunches, he still has a lot of game and a fourth Tour Championship at the end of the month could be just what the doctor ordered.
The Cardinal At Saint John’s Resort Is One Of Michigan’s Best Indiana Golf Journal
Golf architect, Ray Hearn has created a beauty at Saint John’s Resort in Northville, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. Saint Johns is a former Catholic Seminary that was converted into a high-end lodging, dining and golf resort. The Pulte Family Charitable Foundation purchased the resort several years ago and recently invested over $50 million in renovations and updates to make this one of the best resorts in the country. Conveniently located between downtown Detroit and Ann Arbor, it is perfect for sports fans coming into southeast Michigan for the Tigers, Lions or even University of Michigan events. Back 9 Report visited Saint John’s Resort last month and chatted with their Director of Golf, Nick Becks. Watch the full interview HERE. There were 27 holes of golf available at Saint John’s, but Hearn ripped up the old holes and created a wonderful 18-hole championship course, a seven-hole par 3, plus the largest putting green in the state of Michigan. “This new championship golf course, combined with the short course and putting course, creates the perfect golf entertainment venue for golfers of all abilities, golf groups, and families to enjoy
together. The facility serves as a foundation for building a passion for the game and offers a welcoming entry point into the world of golf. Plus, 100% of the profits from the resort, including golf, goes to charity.” The Cardinal presents an original experience with no two holes that look, or play alike. Hearn’s routing factors in elevation, wind, terrain, and scenic beauty for optimal shot values. The course also takes full advantage of the trees that golf experience. I believe we have achieved that, and then some, with this project.” Also designed by Hearn, The Little Cardinal provides golfers with a variety of short shots. Ranging from 44 yards to 112 yards with names such as Punchbowl, Volcano, and Postage, the course provides a unique experience for all ages and abilities. The Cardinal Putting Course is 18 holes packed with challenges. The resort also has a first-class driving range and practice facility, plus there is Carl’s Golfland retail shop and Trackman driving range on the premises. Doyles Irish Pub, an authentic two-story Irish pub restaurant makes the perfect place for a pre-or post-round meal, or libation. Lodging options are all first class and Saint John’s can accommodate any size of group, or function. Stay-and-play packages include resort credit to Doyles Irish Pub and FIVE Steakhouse, reduced fees on Little Cardinal, and unlimited access to The Cardinal Putting Course. For more information, or to book your next golf getaway visit: SaintJohnsResort.com. frame many fairways to provide a classic design aesthetic from the golden age of golf course architecture. “The land was a perfect setting for me to draw on my inspiration from previous Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and Willie Park Jr. projects and one of my favorite courses, The Old Course at Sunningdale by Willie Park Jr, which I implemented on both the championship course and the short course,” said Hearn. “Our goal was to create a fun Indiana Golf Journal
KADIN GIBSON: IN PURSUIT OF A CAREER IN GOLF “It remains a dream,” admits Kadin, who is a lefthanded golfer. Kadin graduated from Franklin Community High School, where he played on the varsity golf team and was the number-one golfer on the team, coached by the legendary Ted Bishop. He is heading to Vincennes University to study business management and play on the men’s golf team, under head coach Dennis Chattin. This summer, Kadin has been busy playing tournaments in Indiana. He qualified for his third consecutive Indiana Open, held at The Pete Dye Course in French Lick, but didn’t make the cut. He competed in the Boys Junior PGA Championship at the Rock Hollow Golf Club in Peru, shot 75-77 and finished tied for 35th place. In the IGA Match Play at the Ackerman-Allen course at Purdue’s Birck Boilermaker Golf Club, he shot 81 and failed qualify for the match play portion. At the Indiana Junior Masters at the Broadmoor Club in Indianapolis, he rebounded and fired two rounds of 72-72 to finish seventh. Last month, he finished in a By Mike May As a golfer, Kadin Gibson, 18, has plans to work in the golf industry, just like his father Eric, who is a sales representative for Tour Edge Golf. But, for right now, Kadin is immersed in just being a golfer albeit a very good golfer, currently sporting a +1 handicap, playing out of the Legends Golf Club in Franklin. He doesn’t rule out playing professional golf for a living. Indiana Golf Journal
tie for third at the annual club championship at the Legends Golf Club. When he plays, Kadin considers the strength of his golf game is putting with his Odyssey, but he’s also very confident with his Tour Edge driver, Callaway APEX irons, and Mizuno wedges. He is also very particular about the golf ball he uses. “I like playing the Titleist Pro V1,” notes Kadin, who has two holes-in-one on his golf resume. According to Eric, he is optimistic that his son will find a professional opportunity in the golf industry because of his mature, golf-centric mindset. “Kadin has always embraced the integrity of the game and he respects the rules and players at each and every tournament,” says Eric. “In one of his first IGF Junior Tour events, he hit in the woods and after the hole, he made sure he scored a stroke that happened back in the trees that nobody saw. I knew then, at 14 years old, he loved the game. Respecting the history and integrity of the game has always been a talking point for us. At the end of the day, he knows his dad wants him to be a better man than a golfer.” Eric is excited about his son’s future, but he’s not thrilled about his son going off to college. “I’m not ready for my boy to leave, but I am excited to see what his next chapter brings though.”
Thank a Golf Course Superintendent Day Sept. 10 By Fred Altvater The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), in conjunction with other global superintendent groups, is recognizing those who are essential to golf’s success with an international “Thank a Golf Course Superintendent Day,” encouraging all golfers, those who are in the golf business, or anyone who benefits from the game to thank superintendents for their hard work and dedication to the game. “Thank a Golf Course Superintendent Day” 2024 will be celebrated Sept. 10. Other groups taking part in the global event include the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA), the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) and The Federation of European Golf Greenkeepers Associations (FEGGA). All together the groups represent more than 31,000 golf course management professionals in 78 countries around the world. The celebration will include television commercials and social media posts that demonstrate the many ways superintendents benefit the game and their communities. Golfers and others are encouraged to join in the conversation on social media using the hashtags #ThankASuper, or #ThankAGreenkeeper. In addition, golf courses and other groups are encouraged to provide special recognition for their superintendent and course maintenance staff on September 10. During the 2023 Thank A Golf Course Superintendent Day, social media messages reached more than 14.7 million followers around the world, plus broadcast media reached an additional 18 million people. To learn more visit www.gcsaa.org and show your support on social media using #ThankASuper. Indiana Golf Journal
Tiger Woods visited Oakland Hills Golf Club last month to watch his son, 15-yearold Charlie compete in the U.S. Junior Amateur. Charlie did not advance out of the 36-hole medal play portion of the tournament, but larger than normal crowds turned out to watch the action. Normally the crowds at a U.S. Junior Amateur are not large, just a few friends and family Charlie Woods Misses Cut at U.S. Junior Amateur Indiana Golf Journal
If you are hosting a trivia contest and want to stump most people simply ask, How many USGA events did Tiger Woods win before he became a professional golfer? They say that records are made to be broken, but here is a record that will never come close to being challenged. From 1991-1996, Tiger won six consecutive USGA National Championships. In 1991, as a 15-year-old in his first USGA Championship, Tiger Woods' Amateur Record Will Never Be Broken Tiger defeated Brad Zwetschke at Bay Hill Golf Club. In 1992, Woods secured his second consecutive U.S. Junior Amateur title at Wollaston Golf Club in Milton, Massachusetts. Woods found himself two-down with just five holes to play, but rallied to win the match on the 18th hole. attend. Young Charlie’s group had such a large following of fans that gallery ropes were placed on each hole as his group made their way around the course. We have watched Charlie compete with his dad on television in the PNC Father/Child event. We have seen him hit bombs off the tees and be an integral part of the two-man team. Charlie has won numerous junior events and earlier this year his high school team won the Florida High School State Championship. The younger Woods found Oakland Hills to be a challenge posting rounds of 82-80 and finishing well outside the top 64 players that went on to the match play portion of the tournament. The U.S. Junior Amateur includes two rounds of medal play to determine the 64 players that will play match play to decide the winner. Blades Brown, from Nashville, fired two rounds of 66-68 to finish six-under par besting Huntsville, Alabama’s Tyler Watts by a single shot to claim the top seed heading into match play. Charlie Woods didn’t prevail this time, but in golf, as in life, we learn much more in defeat than in victory. Plus, he will have two more chances at the U.S. Junior Amateur before he turns 18.
The following year, 1993, Woods won his third consecutive U.S. Junior Amateur at Waverly Country Club in Oregon. He defeated another future PGA Tour winner Ohio-native, Ryan Armour. Woods had also defeated Armour in the 1992 semi-finals. Before the age of 18, Tiger had won three consecutive U.S. Junior Amateur titles a record that will never be equaled, but he was not finished. Playing in the U.S. Amateur for the first time in 1994, Woods defeated Trip Kuehne at TPC Sawgrass for his fourth consecutive USGA National title. Kuehne went on to be a threetime All-American and 1995 Ben Hogan Award winner. As an amateur, he was a three-time Walker Cup player and qualified for four U.S. Opens and two Masters. In 1995, Woods took down Buddy Marucci, an accomplished amateur golfer, 2-up at Newport Country Club in Rhode Island to clinch the title and give him five USGA National championships in a row. In 1996, at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in Oregon, Woods won his third consecutive U.S. Amateur title and sixth consecutive USGA National championship. From 1991 to 1996 Tiger amassed six consecutive USGA National titles. Three U.S. Junior Amateurs and three consecutive U.S. Amateurs. With the amazing things that Tiger Woods accomplished in his golf career, these six consecutive USGA titles as an amateur are something that will never be repeated. Indiana Golf Journal
BOYNE Golf Expands Its Reach Internationally Last month BOYNE Golf welcomed international golf travel professionals to the 15th annual North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC), staged by International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). It was attended by 280 delegates from 29 countries, making it one of the most internationally diverse tourism events ever to have taken place in a region known as ‘America’s Summer Capital of Golf.’ Event host BOYNE Golf has 10 golf courses, appropriately named “Michigan’s Magnificent Ten,” including the Links/Quarry course at Bay Harbor Golf Club and the Arthur Hills golf course at The Highlands. Both received high praise from the convention participants. There are seven golf resorts offering a total of 29 courses within a 90-minute drive of Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport. Those are in addition to numerous individual golf clubs set amidst a landscape brimming with lakes, forests, hills, islands and rivers, complemented by vineyards, lake resort towns, open roads and ideal summer golfing weather. Indiana Golf Journal
Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO said, “For 95% of these well-traveled delegates, this was their first visit to northern Michigan, and it has really opened their eyes to the possibilities of developing summer golf programs for their golf traveling clients who are always on the lookout for new experiences.” The event served brought the region’s golf tourism industry together, with the support from the Petoskey Area, Traverse City, Gaylord, and the State of Michigan, as well as the America’s Summer Capital of Golf Association of courses. Walton also added, “NAC has a long-established record as the single most important golf tourism event in the USA. During two days of meetings between golf tour operators and golf tourism suppliers, primarily from across North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean, first-hand the quality and variety of our 10 courses, as well as the variety of activities available when they were not on our courses. The best golf travel experts from around the world experienced just how incredible a Northern Michigan golf experience at BOYNE Golf can be.” Birmingham, Alabama, was announced as the host destination for the next NAC, which will take place June 1719, 2025. new business and destinations were embraced that will set the course of golf travel throughout the Americas over the coming 15 months.” Ken Griffin, BOYNE Golf’s Director of Golf Sales and Marketing, said, “It was an honor for BOYNE Golf to host the IAGTO 2024 NAC at Boyne Mountain Resort. It was rewarding to see the delegates take advantage of our long days, to experience
Visit These Three Great Golf Destinations! As you travel around the country, three destinations that cater to golfers include, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Alabama’s Gulf Coast, and North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands . Public-access golf is in bountiful supply at all three locations with readily available tee times, as well as affordable greens fees. Each destination ranks high on the ‘fun-factor scale.’ Escanaba, in Michigan’s U.P., includes a casino, plus an indoor water park, while both Gulf Shores and Brunswick Isles have miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, plus deep-sea fishing offers a refreshing change of pace. is an annual stop on the LPGA’s EPSON Tour. If it’s good enough for the lady pros, it’s certainly good enough for you. Three other attractive courses in the Upper Peninsula are Greywalls, Timberstone, and Sage Run. A Mike May When you make plans to visit any of those three destinations, each location has must-play courses. Sweetgrass Golf Club, adjacent to the Island Resort & Casino, Indiana Golf Journal
one-day 36-hole Sweetgrass-Sage Run experience will make a lasting memory. Island Resort and Casino has also announced plans to add a third course. When you travel to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, make it a priority to play Kiva Dunes. This Jerry Pate creation is one of the best designs in the state of Alabama. Make sure to include Peninsula and Craft Farms on your Gulf Shores itinerary. We recommend the Turquoise Resort by Spectrum Resorts and the Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort for your lodging. Both resorts are a joy to visit, but it’s tough leaving the paradise-like existence. At Brunswick Islands, I have a two-way tie for my favorite, Rivers Edge Golf Club, an Arnold Palmer classic and Carolina National, where two of the course’s marketing phrases encourage you to ‘Embrace the Experience’ and ‘Admire the Adventure.’ Both courses are so alluring that you might be tempted to move to the Brunswick Islands and play both courses all year. Other great designs nearby are the Thistle Golf Club, Pearl Golf Links, Crow Creek, and the Sea Trail Resort. Both Thistle and Sea Trail have 27 holes. For your golfing pleasure, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Alabama’s Gulf Coast, and North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands await your arrival.
Treetops Donates Over To Charites & Scholarships Treetops Resort has an exciting line up of activities for the 2024 Treetops Fall Charity Invitational, proudly sponsored by Pepsi which will take place from Sunday, September 29th to Tuesday, October 1st. Treetops Resort has given over $1,500,000 to causes ranging from health care to youth programs, veterans’ programs, scholarships, and various local programs. Treetops Resort’s Annual Fall Charity Invitational Event is the primary event responsible for raising these funds. Over 400 players from around the globe participate in three days of golf, camaraderie, and giving. In addition, many local businesses also help sponsor the event. Within the past few years, the focus of our giving has moved to 100% on scholarships for students from Otsego County. Since 2018, Treetops Resort has raised $309,800 for the Treetops Resort Endowed Fund and awarded $134,000 in scholarships. Treetops General Manager Barry Owens said, “I have seen the impact of what an education can do—whether it be a traditional four-year school or learning a trade at a two-year school. I know I would not be where I am today without the assistance of scholarships.” Scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors from Otsego County, with priority given to the current Treetops Resort family of employees. Preference is given to employees with multiple years of employment and students earning a $1.5 Million Indiana Golf Journal
degree in hospitality, food and beverage, PGA golf management, turf management, or hotel management. Students are currently eligible for $1,000 annually for four years. The 2024 awardees are: • Isaac Hopp, who is attending Central Michigan University • Donovan Blust, who is attending MidMichigan Community College • Sophie Wieber, who plans to attend the University of Michigan • Avery Huston, who plans to attend Northwood University By sponsoring or participating in the annual invitational, guests are increasing the Treetops Resort Endowed Fund, which is instrumental in funding more students. This is crucial to allowing us to continue providing our local students with the assistance they need. Scholarships are awarded through the Otsego County Foundation, and students can apply on their website https://www.otsegofoundation. org/apply/scholarships/ The three-day tournament and its amenities begin at $750 for individuals and $2,500 for a team of four Space is limited Participants receive: • 54 Holes of Golf Over 3 Days • Two Breakfasts • Three Lunches • Two Dinners • Skins and Prize Bets • Lodging Options Includes Sunday and Monday Lodging Treetops Resort is truly the Midwest’s “Must Play” resort and arguably the best collection of golf anywhere in the country, boasting five different courses from renowned designers Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Tom Fazio. Treetops Resort is also proudly recognized as having the # 1 Par 3 Course in North America: Threetops. Guests can also experience world-class instruction, a spectacular spa, downhill skiing, and meetings & conventions. Treetops Resorts’ winter offerings include some of the finest terrain perfect for families to enjoy all season long. Treetops Resort boasts 24 ski runs, a terrain park, cross-country skiing, and extreme tubing. To reserve a Treetops Resort Getaway, visit Treetops.com.
Summer White Wines Perfect for Apres’ Golf Finger Lakes Riesling The Finger Lakes in central upstate New York, provide a unique and ideal microclimate for grape-growing. In the 1970’s, Dr. Konstantin Frank planted the first Riesling vines on the shale stone sublayers surrounding these lakes. The result was a dead ringer for a German Riesling, oozing with fruity and slatey taste. Today, there are literally hundreds of wineries in the Finger Lakes region producing affordable, world-class Rieslings. Spanish Verdejo Verdejo is a wine which hails from the Rueda region in north central Spain. If you like Sauvigon Blanc, you will also like Verdejo with its fresh citrusy notes and lip-smacking acidity. Verdejo is a complex and interesting white wine, with alluring notes of guava and chamomile on the nose, bright citrus and white peach on the palate, and a lingering pithy finish. With the sunny 80 degree days in August, get out there, play some golf, and pursue these elusive white wines along with those birdies! Warmer weather has arrived, it’s time to come out of our golf hibernation and find some white wines to drink on your patio, or deck. If you like fruit flavors, such as apple and pear, then white wines are right up your alley. Here are a few intriguing, off-the-beaten-path, white wines that have impressed me. South African Chenin Blanc Chenin Blanc is historically well-established in the Loire Valley of France, but few places in the world have grown Chenin Blanc as successfully as South Africa. In fact, many 50-year-old Chenin vineyards still exist in South African wine regions such as, Swartland and Paarl. The soil type here is decomposed granite rich in quartz, which lends an interesting mineral quality to the wine. A classic old-vine Chenin from South Africa delivers rich pear notes buttressed by vibrant acidity, along with hints of jasmine and mineral. By Kurt Wieneke
GEN-X ATHLETES: STAY ACTIVE AND INJURY-FREE As we age, our approach to physical activity and sports needs to evolve. This reality is especially true for athletes in their 40s, 50s and 60s. Many aging athletes assume they should avoid vigorous exercise. Recent research shows that short bouts of moderate-to-high intensity exercise can increase muscle strength in older athletes, reducing their risk of injury. By Franciscan Health Indiana Golf Journal
“A misconception with aging athletes is that aches and pains should be an accepted part of staying active,” said Jenna Walls, MD, with Franciscan Sports Medicine in Indianapolis. “Pain may actually suggest an injury, weakness or biomechanical disturbances, improper form or overtraining, and you shouldn’t consider it a ‘normal’ part of exercise.” Common Sports Injuries In Gen-X Athletes Common sports injuries that older athletes face include muscle strains, Achillies tendon overuse, and stress fractures. Aging And Risk Of Injury Physical changes can affect athletic performance and injury risk. These may include: • decreased bone density, raising the risk of fractures and injuries; • diminished coordination and balance, increasing the risk of a fall and related injuries; • lessened flexibility, leading to stiffness and reduced range of motion; • reduced muscle mass, impacting your strength and endurance. As we age, our heart and lung health can change, too, making it harder to do long, intense activities without straining these organs. “It’s important to adapt your exercise routine and activities to ensure you remain safe,” added Dr. Walls. “These adjustments are not just about maintaining performance, but about safeguarding your health and minimizing the risk of injury.” Which Sports Pose A Risk? Gen X athletes should reconsider sports and athletic endeavors such as football, tennis, high jumps and high-intensity interval training. Athletes can protect themselves by regularly assessing their physical condition and considering lower-impact alternatives. Exercises For Injury Prevention The American Heart Association and American College of Sports Medicine offer specific recommendations for aging athletes regarding aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening, flexibility and balance training. Activities such as riding a stationary bike, swimming, walking, tai chi, yoga, and Pilates are great forms of exercise which will help avoid injury.
(stretching, jumping jacks, cycling, jogging or walking) will help prepare your body for exercise. Recover Slowly Recovery is important for athletes of any age, but our bodies may need extra attention as we age. To recover and recuperate from workouts, keep in mind nutrition, hydration, sleep, and active recovery. Strategies To Manage Previous Injuries Pay attention to any aches or pains during physical activity and modify your exercise routine to avoid increased pain. Adjustments may involve taking more rest days or focusing on lower-impact activities instead of ‘pushing through’ pain. “It is important to start slowly when returning to exercise and to consider cross-training to help avoid re-injury,” said Dr. Walls. “Gen-X athletes should also understand that mental adjustment is important to the return-to-sport process. Maintaining a positive outlook can help with recovery.” Seek medical advice for any severe pain, swelling or bruising. Maintaining a positive outlook and setting realistic goals will help athletes overcome fear and hesitation when returning from an injury. Talking with a therapist and relaxation techniques also can help athletes identify mental blocks to their recovery. Other Injury Prevention Tactics Injuries can set back a fitness enthusiast at any age. But, with the right approach, you can often prevent them. Follow Good Form Using the wrong technique, especially in weightlifting and strenuous exercise, can put added stress on your joints, ligaments and muscles. Having good form is not just about avoiding injury but about making every move count and ensuring your body works as one unit, which enhances overall fitness and health. Warm Up And Cool Down Research shows that cold muscles may be more prone to injury, so doing five to ten minutes of light aerobic activity Indiana Golf Journal
Reynolds Lake Oconee has been named among the top 50 U.S. golf destinations for women by Golf Digest. In addition to the seven golf courses at Reynolds Lake Oconee, they offer various lodging and dining options, a stunning lakefront location, and a wide choice of other activities and amenities. Jack Nicklaus completed a renovation of the Great Waters Reynolds Lake Oconee is a luxurious lakeside resort situated on 30 acres of shoreline. The resort’s 257 accommodations include spacious guest rooms and suites, a Ritz-Carlton Club Level, stand-alone 2 and 3-bedroom cottages, and a grand 3-story lake house. Guests may enjoy a newly renovated 27,000-square-foot, full-service spa and fitness center, setting a new standard for luxury wellness experiences. The resort features three dedicated pools, including options for adults only, and a beach for relaxation and lake activities. Dining options include authentic Italian cuisine at Amore del Lago, updated classics at Linger Longer Steakhouse and casual fare at Gaby’s by the Lake. Oconee Cove, the resort’s newest addition, is a sophisticated speakeasy lounge where guests will find an ambiance reminiscent of a stately library while savoring handcrafted cocktails, curated spirits, and delectable small plates. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the array of activities Course and it is one of the best courses in the south. Click HERE to view a report from Back 9 Report TV about the new Nicklaus renovation. Put Nicklaus video thumbnail here The Oconee course is an easy walk from The Ritz-Carlton Indiana Golf Journal
Reynolds Lake Oconee Named Top 50 U.S. Destinations For Women available including fishing, swimming, waterskiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, biking, and nearby Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds featuring sporting clays, off-road driving, archery and falconry. Additional lodging in the resort community includes cottages and condominiums that offer quiet, comfortable lakeside living at its best. Each of the facilities is well suited to host a girls’ golf retreat, complete with kitchen, dining and living areas, plus multiple bedrooms. As more women join the game they want to gather their and visit upscale golf destinations. Golfers looking to improve their games will want to take advantage of The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee, a unique training facility offering state-of-the-art instruction and same-day club-fitting. A favorite of both PGA and LPGA Tour pros, The Kingdom utilizes the latest technology and two TaylorMade equipment trailers on site to provide expert coaching and on-the-spot clubbuilding for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Reynolds Lake Oconee is located one-hour east of Atlanta and can be easily reached from Atlanta Harshfield Airport. For additional information or to book accommodations at Reynolds Lake Oconee, visit www.reynoldslakeoconee.com.
Two Great Courses In Mid-Michigan August and September are two great months to play golf in Michigan. There are so many wonderful courses in the ‘Mitten State’ and two of the best are often passed by. Bucks Run and Pohlcat, near Mt. Pleasant, are two courses that should be on your short list when you head north. Bucks Run Golf Club large lake that sits in the center of the property. The course is always well maintained and in tournament condition every day. This course has to be one of the best values in the state. For golfers heading farther up in northern Michigan, Bucks Run makes the perfect place to break up your trip and play a quick 18. To make a tee time visit: https://www.bucksrun. com/. By Fred Altvater Bucks Run Golf Club is located between Mt. Pleasant and Midland on M20. Michiganbased golf course designer Jerry Matthews built a wonderful 18-hole championship course on the site of a former stone quarry. Matthews sculpted fairways and greens in and around the Chippewa River that flows through the property. Holes No. 9 and 18 play along the Indiana Golf Journal
Pohlcat Golf Club One of the highlights of playing a round at Pohlcat is catching Dan in the clubhouse and listening to his stories of life on the PGA Tour. For more information, or to book a tee time visit: https://www.pohlcat.net/. Both Bucks Run and Pohlcat are near Mt. Pleasant, the home of Central Michigan University. If you are heading to CMU for a football game this fall, tee it up at one of these great courses, while you are there. Dan Pohl is a local Mt. Pleasant resident who made it to the PGA Tour. Dan won twice on tour and finished runner-up in the 1982 Masters, losing in a playoff to Craig Stadler. He had 70 career top 10 finishes and was inducted into the Michigan Hall of Fame in 2004. Dan built Pohlcat Golf Club in 1992 along the Chippewa River wetlands and was determined to offer the best shot values possible. Back 9 Report recently chatted with Dan about his Pohlcat Golf course and issues surrounding the PGA Tour. To watch the full video, click HERE. Place video thumbnail here
VIDEOS Christy Walcott highlights a few of the courses and activities in Gaylord, Michigan and the Gaylord Golf Mecca. Director of Recreation and Head Golf Superintendent at Treetops Resort, Tim Matty talks about recent upgrades and the 81 holes of golf at Treetops. Nick Becks, the Director of Golf at Saint John’s Resort, talks about the recent Ray Hearn renovation to the Cardinal Course at Saint John’s, plus the lodging and dining options available at the top-shelf resort in Detroit. Gaylord Golf Mecca Still Going Strong Treetops Resort Continues To Improve Saint John’s New Cardinal Course Is Open Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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