Spring Is Getter Closer Despite the cold, frosty, and, at times, frigid conditions outside, let’s all ‘encourage’ the thermostat to inch a little higher so everybody can play golf in Indiana in March. In the meantime, I suggest hitting chips in your back yard off artificial turf, putt inside on your carpet, and take full practice swings inside your garage. If you are headed south for your spring break and you are bringing your golf clubs, the many golf courses along Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama, the 20+ golf courses along the Georgia Golf Trail, and the 53 golf courses which comprise the Florida Historic Golf Trail are all venues worth playing. In this issue get a glimpse of some interesting products on display at the PGA Show in Orlando, Franciscan Health shares words of wisdom which specifically apply to golfers, and Ed Travis provides us with a golf equipment update. The International Network of Golf (ING) presented the French Lick Resort with an award for its television commercial known as Carved Into History, plus an award for the Best TV Commercial. Finally, good luck to Zionsville’s Annabelle Pancake who is in the field for this year’s Augusta National Women’s Amateur which will take place from April 3-6 at the Augusta National Golf Club and Champions Retreat Golf Club Augusta, Georgia. As I say every year in February in this column, spring will soon be here. I look forward to seeing you on a practice putting green, the driving range or on the first tee at a golf course near you. Mike 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
Treetops Golf Resort: Still One of America’s Best PGA Recognizes 3 Indiana Pros USGA Revised 2024 Rules Hoosiers On The LPGA Tour Reasons To Visit French Lick in 2024 TaylorMade Qi10 Drivers Introduced A New Pinehurst Welcomes The World in 2024 06 12 18 30 15 28 20 Most Noteworthy Products From 2024 PGA Show Vintage Port Explained Pickleball Continues Its Unparalleled Growth 23 32 34 Our Favorite Videos Our Contributors Improve Golf Performance Through Better Health 39 38 36 30 06 20 23 36 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 FIND INSIDE Indiana Golf Journal
Treetops Golf Resort in Gaylord helped put Northern Michigan on the map as a great golf destination. Although there are several golf resorts in the area with multiple courses, Treetops emerges each year as one of the most recognizable golf resorts in the midwest. In 1983, Harry Melling, an auto industry parts supplier attracting golfers to the resort. While studying the beautiful landscape of what would become the course, Jones observed the millions of trees in the Pigeon River Valley and the name for the resort became Treetops. The Masterpiece was the first of five award-winning golf courses. Melling additionally built the only Tom Fazio Treetops Golf Resort: Still One of America’s Best and owner of a NASCAR team, purchased the old Sylvan Ski Resort near Gaylord and decided he needed more activities to sustain a yearround vacation destination. In 1987, Melling contracted Robert Trent Jones Sr. to create the Masterpiece and the rest is history. The Masterpiece quickly became a must-play destination By David Theoret, The Golfin Guy Indiana Golf Journal
designed course in Michigan and hired Rick Smith as the resort’s first Head Professional. With his student list full of PGA Tour stars, Smith’s students also fell in love with the resort. The Golf Channel launched its popular “Big Break” series at Treetops. Over the years, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, Raymond Floyd, and Jack Nicklaus ventured to Treetops to compete in ESPN’s “Par 3 Shootout,” an exhibition made for television. In 2007, Lee Trevino holed his tee shot at the seventh hole and was rewarded with a cool $1 million. It is still regarded as the richest payday for a single shot and a plaque marks the spot on the tee box still today. Today Treetops has 81 holes of wonderful golf, 226 guest rooms, suites and cottages. Weddings, family reunions and corporate outings can take advantage of the 25,000 square feet of meeting space that can be configured to accommodate any need. Golf is not the only amenity available at Treetops. Outdoor activities such as, biking, fly fishing, tennis, disc golf, and horseback riding are all on the to-do list while visiting Treetops. When the white stuff starts to fall, Treetops transforms into one of Northern Michigan’s top ski resorts, with 23 expertly groomed ski runs, and 14 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Over the years Treetops has received its share of accolades from the golf world. Golf Magazine recognized it as one of the finest resorts in the United States, seven-times. In 2002, Treetops was
ranked #32 on Golf Digest’s list of “America’s Top 75 Golf Resorts”, and in June 2000, Conde Nast Traveler named them as a “Top 50 International Resorts.” Year in and year out Treetops is awarded at least 4 stars by Golf Digest’s Places to Play. Back 9 Report talked with General Manager Barry Owens about all the new attractions at Treetops. View the full interview HERE. In addition to great golf, there are two other qualities necessary for a golf resort to earn high marks. Delicious dining and comfortable accommodations are also important to attract and keep golfers returning to the resort. Treetops does not disappoint on either of those requirements. With three restaurants on the main property, the Legends on the Hill, Hunter’s Grille, and the Sports Bar, the food is outstanding. Hunter’s Grille offers a menu of eclectic cuisine and offers spectacular views from the top of the ski hill. Legends on the Hill has a pasta dish that features a giant elk meatball and handmade herb pappardelle pasta covered in a rich tomato Indiana Golf Journal
sauce and served with shaved Parmesan, and garlic toast. There’s also fresh Michigan rainbow trout and a Sous Vide Pork Chop that is incredibly delicious. At the Sports Bar, you can indulge in your favorite madeto-order pizza, or a hot and spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich to compliment your favorite cold beverage. The Southfork Ranch Steak Sandwich is eight ounces of prime rib, sauteed onions, fresh spinach, and garlic aioli, served comfortably, making them perfect for small groups and outings. All are outfitted with modern amenities and the twofloor layout provides added space and unbeatable views. As far as the golf goes all the courses are maintained to tournament standards. Golf Digest named The Masterpiece to its Top 10 list of Favorite Fall Foliage Courses in the nation. The Masterpiece has a slope rating of 147, making it one of the state’s toughest courses, but if you play the tees that best suit your game, you’re sure to have a fun and challenging round. The views, especially in the fall, can create a distraction from your golf game and many return year after year to catch the “Fall Color Season.” Treetops’ other courses, The Smith Signature, The Tradition, The Premier and Threetops are all located at the Treetops North location, just a few minutes from the lodge. The Signature was the second 18-hole layout built on the resort property. It was also the first golf course designed by on fresh rosemary Herb Bread. It is truly a delicious treat after a day on the links. The Jones Tavern at Treetops North is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. It’s primarily a graband-go menu with items like a Signature Burrito, Smith Breakfast Sandwich, the Fazio Grilled Ham and Cheese, and the Traditions Southwest Wrap. Bar 81 is located on the main floor of the lodge just past the reception area and has become a popular gathering spot for those staying in the lodge. Several televisions make it the perfect spot to relax with your friends, recap the day, and watch your favorite sports teams. The rooms in the lodge are some of the largest I’ve stayed in. The lodge also features an indoor pool, hot tub, and a fitness center, as well as the Treetops Spa. The newest addition to the Treetops lodging collection is the Jones Cottages. Each cottage sleeps eight people
Rick Smith who then went on to design the Tradition Course and Threetops. Smith used the insight and knowledge he gained from his numerous trips to Scotland and Ireland to help him shape the courses, giving them the look and feel of some of the world’s best courses. The Premier Course at Treetops Resort is the only Tom Faziodesigned golf course in Michigan and is as challenging as it is forgiving. It’s a very player-friendly course with many wide and rolling fairways. Treetops has completed a major renovation to The Tradition which will appeal to golf enthusiasts who want to experience the game as it was intended to be played, “a good walk spoiled by a little white ball!” holes may look intimidating on the scorecard, but they play significantly downhill. Each hole is unique, and the course conditions are the same as any of the championship 18-hole courses. The greens are the most challenging aspect of the course; some have severe slopes with severe undulation. With the proliferation of par 3 courses at top-flight resorts around the country, Threetops is one of the originals and is still a must-play. Treetops Resort is easy to reach and with great golf, fantastic dining, as well as spacious, comfortable rooms, you won’t go wrong in choosing Treetops as your next golf getaway destination. For more information on this outstanding golf resort, visit their website at www.treetops.com. Smith incorporated many of the traits of a links-style golf course even though it is nowhere near an ocean. The conversion resulted in the removal of many trees, which brings to life subtly rolling fairways and native grasses. The rough areas have been cleaned up and seeded with various fescue grasses. According to General Manager Barry Owens, “With these links-style changes, you can see up to fifteen different greens on different parts of the golf course.” Threetops is the most challenging par 3 course in North America. AARP named Threetops the #1 Par 3 Course in North America. From the back tees, yardages on Threetops range between 140 and 219 yards. The longer Indiana Golf Journal
leadership, moral character, and unwavering commitment to the game of golf: a perfect summary of all three Indiana PGA professionals. Tony Pancake, PGA Professional of the Year Tony Pancake, the Director of Golf at Crooked Stick Golf Club, is the recipient of the 2024 PGA of America Golf Professional of the Year Award. This is the highest annual honor given to a PGA of America Golf Professional, which is awarded for leadership, strong moral character and a substantial record of service to the Association and the game of golf. A PGA of America Member for 36 years, Pancake has helped steer Crooked Stick’s efforts on the national and international stage since 2003, as the facility played host to several championship events, highlighted by the 2005 Solheim Cup, 2007 USGA Women’s Amateur, 2009 U.S. Senior Open and the 2012 and 2016 BMW Championships. The Club will host the U.S. Senior Open Championship in 2028. A native of Seymour, Indiana, Pancake attended the University of Alabama on a golf scholarship and earned an accounting degree. He served for nine years as PGA of Honors 3 Indiana Pros With National Awards By Santana Shipley In a testament to the talent and dedication of its members, the Indiana Section PGA proudly announces that three of its esteemed professionals, Tony Pancake, Robert Koontz and Crystal Morse, have been recognized as recipients of the 2024 PGA of America Awards. These awards, presented annually, acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated exceptional Indiana Golf Journal
America Head Professional at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. He then worked at Hurstborne Country Club in Louisville, before being named Head Professional at Baltimore Country Club in 2002. Pancake just finished his 20th season at Crooked Stick, serving as Head Golf Professional and Director of Golf & Club Operations since 2010. Pancake has served the PGA for more than 30 years at both the Section and National Levels. He has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including Indiana PGA Section’s PGA Golf Professional of Year in 2009 and 2019. life and be very successful,” said Indiana Golf Executive Director Mike David. Robert Koontz, PGA Merchandiser of the Year - Resort Category Robert Koontz, PGA, Head Professional at the Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort, is the recipient of the 2024 PGA Merchandiser of the Year Award-Resort Category. A two-time Indiana PGA Section Merchandiser of the Year - Resort (2017, 2023), Koontz has worked at French Lick Resort since 2016. He served as the Head Professional of the Donald Ross course until 2021, when he received his current position as Head Professional of the Pete Dye Course in French Lick. In addition to this role, Koontz is the Assistant Director of Golf at French Lick Resort and the Director of Golf Merchandise at all three venues of the resort. Koontz is focused on studying the retail world, researching lifestyle trends, watching for social trends, building partnerships and learning from fellow PGA Professionals. These actions, along with analyzing the sales data, create an on-hand supply of high demand that produces Koontz’s successful golf shops. Pancake is one of Golf Digest’s top 10 Teachers in Indiana, as well as an accomplished player. He qualified for a PGA Professional Championship and won the 2015 Indiana Senior Open Championship. Tony and his wife Libby have been married for 36 years. They have four children and five grandchildren. “To me, Tony is the epitome of what a PGA Professional should be. He’s involved in every facet of the club operations, is active with Indiana Golf, is active in his community and always finds time for his family. He is proof that you can have a balanced
“Rob has done a tremendous job since coming to French Lick’s Pete Dye Course,” notes Indiana Golf’s Mike David. “He is tremendously dedicated to his facility and his profession.” Crystal Morse, PGA Player Development Crystal Morse, a 15-year PGA of America Member in the Indiana PGA Section, and Head PGA Professional at The Legends Golf Club in Franklin, Indiana, is the 2023 PGA Player Development Award recipient. This honor bestows special recognition to a PGA of America Golf Professional who has displayed extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of player development. A native of Greenwood, Indiana, and a former standout junior golfer, Morse went on to play at Western Kentucky University, where she was named to the All-Sunbelt Conference team and served as captain of the WKU team her junior and senior years. Upon graduation in 2003, she spent two seasons as an Assistant Professional at The Legends, before moving to Palm Desert, California, where she earned her PGA of America Membership and spent nine seasons as the PGA Assistant Professional at The Lakes Country Club, a 36hole private club before moving to The Club at Morningside, where she became the lead teaching instructor. She returned to The Legends in 2017 as the Director Player Development and then quickly became the Head PGA Professional. In addition to her position at The Legends, Morse serves as Co-Head Coach of the Franklin boys and girls High School Golf Teams and is co-owner of the Morse Golf Academy at The Legends with her husband Jim, a fellow PGA of America Golf Professional, where they teach more than 1,500 private lessons per year. Morse runs one of the top PGA Jr. Leagues in the Section, being awarded the PGA Jr. League Gamechanger Award in 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023. She also runs First Tee Junior programs, is an LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Site Director, organizes “Adult Get Golf Ready Programs,” and a summer PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) Program for Military Veterans. A longstanding, dedicated PGA of America Member, Morse has served on the Indiana PGA Board of Directors, currently serves on the Indiana Section Player Development Committee and has been a two-time recipient of the Indiana Section Youth Player Development Award (2019 and 2020). “Crystal understands that even though the game of golf is riding a high right now, we still need to focus on where the future golfers are coming from. She is not afraid to try new programs and is truly an innovator,” says Mike David. Indiana Golf Journal
Reasons To Visit French Lick Resort In 2024 ANOTHER GOLF OPTION In 2024 French Lick will expand its golf offerings by developing a totally new golf experience located near the existing Valley Links Course. Stay tuned for more information on that later. Korn Ferry Tour Coming to French Lick The future stars of the PGA Tour will compete for 2025 PGA Tour cards at the Korn Ferry Tour Championship presented by United Leasing & Finance. The Pete Dye Course will host the Korn Ferry Tour’s seasonending tournament October 3-6, highlighted by the celebratory PGA Tour Card Ceremony. REOPENING OF THE BILLIARD & BOWLING PAVILION For the first time in more than 90 years, guests will be rolling strikes and sinking 8-balls in this historic recreation building on the West Baden Springs Hotel grounds. The Billiard & Bowling Pavilion is coming back to life and should be ready in the fall. The building has been vacant for decades, but the revival will be worth the wait. It will feature 6 lanes of bowling plus billiard tables and there will also be a dining area serving pizza and sandwiches. HEALTH, SPA & RECREATION FFrench Lick has added new hiking and walking trails around our 3,000 acre property. With the popularity of Pickleball, more courts have been added for guests to work up a sweat. With Yoga classes and two world-class spas French
Lick is taking your health and wellness seriously. West Baden Dome Repair The West Baden received substantial damage to the glass dome during a severe hail storm last year. French Lick staff, as well as local contractors have been working feverishly to replace 12,000 square feet of glass panels that were destroyed. The timeline for completion remains on track, and the work should be complete by late April. The first section is already complete and allows the sun to shine once again in the West Baden awe-inspiring atrium. NEW ON THE MENU One of the all-time reasons to visit French Lick is the excellent dining opportunities within the resort. Always looking to improve, French Lick has added more menu options for the popular Power Plant Bar & Grill. A new awning has been added to 1875; The Steakhouse for outdoor dining and a food trailer will offer tasty treats for swimmers splashing around in the French Lick Springs Hotel outdoor pool. Dinners at Sunset will also return for this year. Enjoy a world-class dining experience while taking in a gorgeous Southern Indiana Sunset. As you can see there is a myriad of reasons to visit French Lick this year. Their staff is always looking for new ways to create the perfect vacation for their guests. Click HERE to find out more. Indiana Golf Journal
Must be 21 years or older to enter the casino. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.9.WITH.IT or text INGAMB to 53342! MAKE IT COUNT IN 2024 Yep, big things are on the horizon. With a modern Pete Dye gem and a classic Donald Ross layout, this road trip packs quite a 1-2 punch. Experience two elite courses together at one must-play resort. French Lick Resort’s Pete Dye and Donald Ross Courses #1 and #2 in Indiana for 13 straight years, Golfweek’s “Best You Can Play” GET STARTED AT frenchlick.com/golf SECURE YOUR TEE TIME (888) 936-9360 GROUP PLANNING (8+) (812) 936-5825 Scan to play
USGA Revised 2024 Rules What you need to know about 2024 Rules Changes. The United States Golf Aassociation (USGA) sets and defines the rules of golf and have announced three rules changes for 2024. The World Handicap System was first introduced in 2020 in an effort to make golf inclusive for all skill-levels, provide a consistent measure of ability, plus remain current with trends. Now four years later the USGA is making their first revision to those original set of rules and there are three changes that will affect your scoring going forward. 1) A lower minimum length for a golf course to obtain a Course Rating™ and Slope Rating™ Under the current system, an 18-hole course must be at least 3,000 yards to receive a Course Rating and Slope Rating (or 1,500 yards for 9 holes). Starting in 2024, the yardage requirements will be cut in half, to 1,500 and 750 yards, respectively. This is good news for golfers who regularly play par-3 and shorter-length courses and have wanted those scores to count toward their Handicap Index®. Indiana Golf Journal
2) A new treatment of 9-hole scores Today, 9-hole scores are combined in the order posted to create an 18-hole Score Differential™. This means that a 9-hole score shot today could be combined with a 9-hole score from days, weeks, or even months before – which can lead to volatile results. Beginning in 2024, when a player posts a 9-hole score, it will be combined with their expected Score Differential over 9 holes to create an 18hole Score Differential for immediate use – with expected score based on the player’s Handicap Index at the time the round is played as well as a course of standard difficulty. 3) An updated approach for holes not played At present when a hole isn’t played (due to darkness, for example), the score recorded is a net par. When the 2024 revision goes into effect, when 10-17 holes are played, an 18-hole Score Differential will be determined by adding the player’s Score Differential from the holes played to an expected Score Differential for the number of holes not played. Since a player’s expected score is not specific to a course or reliant upon the course’s stroke index allocation (as net par is today), this will lead to more consistency. If you plan on playing competitive tournament golf, it is imperative that you know and understand the rules of golf. Proper handicapping is essential to maintain a level playing field for all contestants in a handicap event. For more clarification visit: https://www.usga. org/.
A “New” Pinehurst Welcomes the World in 2024 The latest developments in a place as steeped in history as the “Home of American Golf” — North Carolina’s Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area — only accentuate all this region has to offer. Most notably, the United States Open championship returns to Pinehurst Resort following a 10year absence. About a quarter of a million people are expected to descend upon the area for this men’s major championship, which will be held at venerable Pinehurst No. 2, June 10-16. By the time the world’s best are teeing it up at No. 2, the USGA’s Golf House Pinehurst Even if you’ve made a recent visit to the Sandhills region of the Tar Heel State, you will quickly discover that Pinehurst ‘24 is a decidedly different destination. The year ahead will be filled with numerous creations and attractions to enjoy on and away from the golf course. Indiana Golf Journal
will be open and with it the return of the World Golf Hall of Fame to its original and rightful place inside the Home of American Golf — the perfect way to welcome the world to this destination as it once again makes its mark on the global stage. The USGA campus and World Golf Hall of Fame at Pinehurst Resort tee up a “mustsee” experience for any visitor to the area. The other dominant golf headline around the Sandhills in 2024 is the arrival of Hill Farm in nearby Asheboro received a refurbishing under new ownership. Away from the course, retired Army veterans Brad and Jessica Halling have opened the BHAWK distillery headquarters in Southern Pines, where they are raising the American spirit and expressing gratitude for extraordinary service through two premium brands, Sergeant’s Valor and Madam Colonel. In addition, Southern Pines Brewing Company plans to turn the old Tyson and Jones Buggy Factory, located in downtown Carthage, into a twostory brewery and restaurant featuring more than 50 taps, a downstairs speakeasy, a worldclass cocktail program and pizza flights. The Pinehurst area has a storied legacy of golf unlike any other place in the country. And it keeps getting better. See the latest packages and other news at HomeofGolf.com. Pinehurst No. 10. The Pinehurst Resort is set to open its 10th course on April 3. It’s the first original course built by the resort in nearly three decades. No. 10 is a Tom Doak design on land that once housed The Pit. The landscape underlying Doak’s layout features native wiregrass, sweeping landscape and rolling hills formed by geology. Midway through the course, Doak also takes advantage of rugged dunes carved out by mining operations around the turn of the 20th century. No. 10 is now taking tee time reservations. Of late, Southern Pines Golf Club unveiled the 18-hole Overhills Putting Course, designed by Kyle Franz. Kris Spence “resurrected” Woodlake Country Club in Vass, while Mike Strantz’s Tot
Most Noteworthy Products From 2024 PGA Golf Show By Len Ziehm Every year the giant PGA Show, held in Orlando, is the same thing – only different. The 71st rendition, held in January, once again showcased the newest must-have golf gear and attire. More than 1,000 golf companies and brands enticed approximately 30,000 industry members who gathered for the traditional Demo Day, and at the Orange County Convention Center for three days of total golf immersion. The golf industry is in a very good place at the moment. The 41 million Americans playing golf generate $22.6 billion dollars to the total economic impact in this country alone. We always find it interesting to check out all the new products and here is our list of the Top 10 for 2024. Popticals Sunglasses Popticals sunglasses are hand-made in Italy and are specifically designed for various sports and needs. ``Our most popular is our golf line,’’ said Gary DiSalvo, chief executive officer for the company’s headquarters in Ellisville, Mo. ``These glasses are specifically made for golf. The lens focus is on green and golf courses are overwhelmed by green. We wanted them to focus more on the ground, and the green color will help you see better. As soon as you put on a pair on a golf course you’ll see different shades of green. They delineate miniscule differences in the grass, elevation changes and where the break might be.’’ Click HERE to find out more at their website.
Wheel Pro Stride Zero Friction introduced their newest innovation, the Wheel Pro Stride electric bag trolley. The Stride is an update of the Wheel Pro, which won industry honors at this year’s PGA Show. The Stride’s 35-pound bag has a pocket-sized remote control that uses Smart Technology to follow within three feet of the golfer. It’s a versatile product, though, as you can push it, carry it or put it on a cart. It comes with an umbrella holder, a cooler that can hold up to six cans or bottles, two invisible magnets to secure a rangefinder or Bluetooth speaker and a built-in USB port. Click HERE to visit their website for more information. Omnix Golf Bags Omnix specializes in customized golf bags and some of their creations were the most eye-catching items at the show. They had an interchangeable outer shell, seven multiple pockets, 14-way club dividers – and a distinctive appearance. The company calls their bags ``revolutionary’’ with their combination of advanced technology, functionality and edgy style. The models that caught my eye the most were in the company’s Rainbow Series. The Black Vodka and Sex on the Beach models in that series are both priced at $540. ``Omnix bags will illuminate the course and feed free spirits,’’ according to the company’s website. No argument there. Find out more about Omnix Golf Bags HERE. Perfect Hands Golf Perfect Hands Golf is billed as ``the world’s first ever swing and strength trainer.’’ The training aid comes complete with a belt, four acceleration bands in 10, 20, 30 and 40-pound increments, gloves for both hands, plus a handy carry case. If used as suggested, this device helps a player get his swing on plane, increase strength and range of motion. In short, Perfect Hands can develop proper technique and increase swing speed. Click HERE to visit their website. Indiana Golf Journal
Zigit Beer And Drink Dispenser This Phoenix-based company touts their features: • Provide golfers with immediate, gratuity-free access to the alcoholic beverages • Generates larger margins for courses because it requires less overhead and staffing headaches • Upholds compliance controls, including drink limits per day, per user • Tracks real-time inventory • Reduces alcohol inventory shrinkage which often reaches 30% • Speeds up pace of play ``We’re targeting golfers because they could use it year-around,’’ said Zigit’s Chris Hurry. Golf course management decides which beverages are offered, plus Zigit has technology that can screen out under-age buyers and limit the daily intake of others. You can find out more at their APP. One Club Training Device The One Club Training Device provides instantaneous tactile, audible and sensory feedback to promote correct swing consistency. Alcides Deschesnes, a Canadian-born mechanical engineer, developed the One Club Device designed to increase golfers’ swing speeds. ``It’s more than a weighted club,’’ said Deschesnes. ``It combines the principles of dynamic inertia resistance with instant feedback and can be used as an exercise tool.’’ Click HERE to find out more. Dial Ball Marker Toweltag, a Canadian company that also manufactures popular golf towels, intrigued me with their ball marker. It helps golfers draw straight lines on their balls for identification purposes but is more valuable after play begins. ``It can be used as an alignment tool,’’ said Craig Holub, who introduces himself as TowelTag’s ``founder and visionary.’’ The ball marker comes with a dial that can help line up putts, either on the practice green, or on the course. Order online at TowelTag.
Lagmaster A training aid shaped like a drainpipe under your kitchen sink can accomplish big things for golfers. The Lagmaster is said to ``teach movement that gets the body, arms, hands and club synced correctly and trains the power swing, weight shift, sequence, low point and finish.’’ And, according to promotional material, ``it keeps it simple.’’ Click HERE to learn more. Golf Breeze Designed by Randy Kuckuck, the Golf Breeze is the golf version of his popular Zoom Broom. This battery-powered gadget fits nicely in your golf bag and quickly removes leaves, or other debris from your line on the green. Learn more about Zoom Golf Breeze at their website. Indiana Golf Journal
TaylorMade Q 10 Drivers Introduced TaylorMade Golf has introduced three new models in their Qi10 series, including the Qi10 Max with a MOI (moment of inertia), or resistance to twisting. The big news from TaylorMade this season is the extremely high MOI value of their new Qi10 Max driver, which is much greater than many competitors’ drivers. MOI or resistance to twisting when impact with the ball is not in the center of center tee shot. Hitting it longer is nice but if you can’t find the fairway chances are your scoring will suffer. Brian Bazzel, Vice President of Product Creation for TaylorMade offered his opinion about the new line, “We’re all about breaking barriers and never looking back. From the first metal wood to 60X Carbon Twist Face, once we commit and the face is very important for players at all levels but especially those occasional recreational golfers. Less twisting at impact results in a increased ball speed which provides more distance and accuracy from each off By Ed Travis Indiana Golf Journal
Fast Facts TaylorMade Qi10 Driver Series Shallow shaped carbon fiber head Infinity crown covering 97% of top surface 60-layer carbon fiber Twist Face Sole slot behind face Adjustable hosel +/- 2° Qi10 Max Driver Game-improvement category MOI 10,000 g-cm2 Stock shafts: Fujikura Speeder NX TCS, MCA Diamana T+ Stock grip: Golf Pride Z-Grip MSRP: $599.99 Qi10 LS Better player category Sole slot behind face Sliding 18g weight in separate slot Stock shafts: Tensei AV Limited Blue or Black Stock grip: Golf Pride Z-Grip MSRP: $629.99 Qi10 Driver Game-improvement category Stock shafts: MCA Diamana T+, Fujikura Ventus TR Blue Stock grip: Golf Pride Z-Grip MSRP: $599.99 cross a threshold, we continue to push the boundaries of innovation. Achieving the 10K inertia mark is yet another one of those in the long history of TaylorMade driving the industry forward.” The Qi10 LS is for players with higher swing speeds, who generate more spin off the driver. It is engineered for reducing the spin rate for additional carry accompanied by lower trajectory. The LS also has a sliding sole weight to adjust the draw/fade bias. A lightweight High & Light (HL) version of the Qi10 Max both at 10.5° and 12.0° lofts can be ordered for custom manufacture targeting those with slow to moderate swing speeds such as ladies and seniors.
Hoosiers Making An Impact On The LPGA Tour Paula Reto, who was a member of Purdue’s 2010 NCAA Championship team, was in the field at the LPGA Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions and finished in a tie for 27th. Reto was a three-time First Team All-Big Ten Conference selection and a First Team All-American in 2013. Good luck to Paula Reto on the LPGA Tour this year. Indiana Golf Journal
Three-time U.S. Open champion Hollis Stacy played in the pro-am in late January at the LPGA Tour’s Drive On Championship at Bradenton Country Club. She is pictured here alongside Golf Channel anchor Grant Boone. Stacy has fond ties to Indiana as she won the 1978 U.S. Women’s Open at the Country Club of Indianapolis. Seven-time LPGA winner Debbie Austin was a volunteer on the driving range at this year’s LPGA Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at the Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando in mid-January. Two of Austin’s seven wins came in Indiana, the 1977 Hoosier Classic at the Plymouth Country Club and the 1981 Mayflower Classic at the Country Club of Indianapolis. She was the 1977 LPGA Player of the Year. Tim Prichard, who grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Lawrence Central High School back in 1982, remains a key cog on the production crew as a mobile unit engineer for NEP, the world’s largest provider of facilities (i.e. production trucks) for all the TV networks, including Golf Channel. Prichard was on-site at the LPGA Tour’s first two 2024 Florida events in Orlando and Bradenton.
Types of Vintage Port By Kurt Wieneke Port wines are custom-made for winter, the season where you need the warmth! Real port is from Portugal, and the vineyards used to produce port are located along the steep, rocky slopes during a certain year, for example, 1997 or 2007. Vintage Port – Also known as VP, Vintage Port is the flagship wine and brand representative for all port producers. The most famous and well-known port producers are Taylor, Fonseca, Graham, and Dow, but, of course, there are many other port houses. Vintage Port is made only in the best years, where annual climate conditions were exceptional. On average, there are only three times in a decade that a vintage is “declared,” meaning the port producer has decided to select the best barrels from all of their quintas (vineyards), and issue their supreme blend from that year – dubbed as Vintage Port. Single Quinta – Known simply as SQVP, Single Quinta Vintage Port is produced only from a single year and a single vineyard. The port houses are in business to make money, so they need to issue a port to the market every year. In these interim years where the vintage is not declared, the producers will release a port from their most famous of quintas. Each house has their finest vineyard of the mighty Douro River in northern Portugal. Interestingly, the name “Port” actually refers to the coastal city of Oporto, at the mouth of the Douro, where port wines are exported. The red grape varieties used in making port are mainly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, and Tinta Barroca. These grape varieties are native to Portugal and have been grown there for centuries, dating back to the mid-1700s. Many types of ports are blended, but I would like to cover three different types of vintage ports, and by the term vintage, I mean ports that were made with grapes grown Indiana Golf Journal
based on location, aspect, and soil – Taylor’s has Vargellas, Fonseca has Guimareans, and Graham’s has Malvedos. Late Bottled Vintage – LBV is the moniker for this type of vintage port. Late Bottled Vintage Ports also show the year on the label and are solid examples of port from a single vintage. They are also very affordable ports that run about half the price. The process for making LBV’s is different – these ports age in the barrel for four to six years before they are bottled, and in some cases are allowed to age a few more years in bottle before being hitting the market. This “pre-aging” process essentially smooths out the port and renders some aged flavor characteristics, making LBV’s ready to drink upon release. If you are finding yourself in golf hibernation and looking for some warmth this winter, why not settle next to the fireplace with a “vintage” glass of port?
Pickleball Continues Its Unparalleled Growth By Jack Barrett Pickleball has swept the nation and more than 36 million Americans have taken up the game. Played on a court roughly one fourth the size of a tennis court Pickleball is a cross between Ping Pong and Tennis. The game is played with a wiffle ball roughly the size of a baseball and a paddle used to swat the ball to and fro over the net. According to USA Pickleball, the governing body of the sport, their membership increased by 15% in 2023. New pickleball courts are constantly being added to municipal parks, country clubs and senior citizen retirement communities. All strata of the population are enjoying the fast-moving sport. More than 50,000 pickleball courts are accessible at 11,885 locations around the country. Over 1,000 new locations were added in 2023. USA Pickleball sanctioned 195 tournaments last year, including the National Championship and National Indoor Championship. In addition, USA Pickleball was directly involved in the development of over $300 million in new facilities in 2023, including over 35 regional venues. Nearly 3,500 players registered to compete in the National Championship and were rooted on by 50,000 spectators in attendance. USA Pickleball also awarded 165 grants to support community, collegiate and youth pickleball programs. They added 35 newly trained referees to bring the total to 2,271 certified referees to preside over sanctioned competitions. As more and more people discover the benefits of the sport, pickleball is expected to continue its rapid growth in 2024. Golf and Pickleball have become entwined as many country clubs and upscale golf clubs have added courts for their players. If you would like to learn more about pickleball, visit the USA Pickleball, or the Pickleheads websites for more information and resources. Indiana Golf Journal
Improve Golf Performance Through Better Health As golfers strive to perfect their swings and lower their handicaps, they often encounter a challenging companion: injuries. Repetitive motions, asymmetrical stresses and torque applied to the body during a golf swing can lead to a range of injuries that not only hinder performance but also threaten to sideline even the most devoted players. Thankfully, there’s a sports program available to show golfers how to maintain their form, recognize and avoid potential injuries, and even improve their overall performance. services and resources for golfers, including: • Golf fitness and conditioning • Biomechanical analysis • Injury prevention • Customized golf instruction • Research and education What Golf-Specific Training Does Franciscan’s Golf Performance Program Focus On? “The golf performance program focuses on training areas designed to enhance a golfer’s overall performance by addressing the physical aspects that contribute to an effective and efficient golf swing,” said Enomoto. A golfer’s proper movement and positioning can be impacted by several factors, including TPI-certified Franciscan Health physical therapist Jimmy Enomoto explains how Franciscan Health’s golf performance program can keep you away from potential injuries like golfers elbow, all while maintaining a proper form for those crucial golf swings. What Is A Golf Performance Program? “The golf performance program focuses on the study and improvement of golf-related performance, including the physical, biomechanical and physiological aspects of the game,” said Enomoto. Franciscan’s golf performance program offers a range of Indiana Golf Journal
general flexibility, age and a history of injuries that cause changes to how the body functions. While a person’s range of motion can get in the way of their golfing goals, Franciscan’s golf performance program can help golfers recognize their movement limitations and find effective ways to improve. These training areas for golfers can include: • Functional movement screening • Flexibility and mobility • Strength training • Core stability • Balance and coordination • Posture and body alignment • Injury prevention • Swing mechanics • Integration with golf instruction “The golf performance program’s approach with its training areas combines fitness, biomechanics and golf instruction, providing golfers with a comprehensive strategy to elevate their game and reach their full potential on the course,” said Enomoto. How Can Golf Performance-Trained Professionals Assist With Treating And Preventing Golf Injuries? “TPI or Titleist Performance Institute certified therapist involves coursework that allows for a deeper understanding of the biomechanics of the golf swing, common golf-related injuries, and effective treatment strategies,” said Enomoto. “The specialized knowledge from these courses enables these professionals to better diagnose, treat and prevent golf-related injuries, ultimately helping golfers maintain their health and optimize their performance on the course.” How Can Golf Performance Training Help Prevent Common Golf Injuries? Enomoto explained that the most common golf injuries typically involve the areas of the body that are subjected to repetitive stress, awkward movements, and the rotational forces associated with the golf swing. These potential injuries can include: • Lower back pain • Golfers elbow • Shoulder injuries • Knee injuries “By using a functional movement screening, we can address areas of dysfunction and tailor interventions to the individual golfer’s needs, thus helping prevent or recover from injuries.” With some dedication to hone your craft along with the assistance of trained professionals, you’ll be able to confidently spend time playing golf casually or professionally while progressing golfing skills steadily and avoiding injuries that could take you out of the game.
Our Contributors This Month Ed Travis Steve Pike Ed Travis is a national award winning golf journalist and has had a lifelong love affair with the game. He has competed in tournament golf both as an amateur and as a senior professional and though his competitive days are behind him, he still plays regularly and carries a handicap of 2. https://www.facebook.com/ed.travis.98 Steve Pike is a multiple award-winning journalist and author. He has written for Golfweek, Golf World, The New York Times Magazine Group, Golf Digest and as a golf business writer for PGA.com. You can find more from Steve at Spike’s Peeks: The Art of Travel, as well as, Links Magazine, Hotelinteractive.com, Coastal Star Newspaper, NewEngland.golf and Golf-Hound.com Len Ziehm David Theoret Len Ziehm spent 41 years as a golf columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. He now free lances golf travel pieces and posts for http://lenziehmongolf. com/. Find Len on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ lenziehmongolf/ David grew up playing hockey in Canada and after taking one too many pucks to the head, he decided Golf was a better alternative. He now resides in Lakeland, Florida and much of his time is spent on a golf course or practice range. You can find him at www.thegolfinguy.com or email him at: thegolfinguy@ gmail.com Jack Barrett Jack Barrett is a former Executive Director of The First Tee. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, Florida, plus a Certified Els for Autism Golf Coach. He has become a rabid Pickleball fan and player. Contact Jack on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ jack.barrett.pb Indiana Golf Journal
VIDEOS Top names performed well at the Sentry Championship, LIV & PGA Tour battles continue. The LPGA is set to start 2024 in Florida and television ratings down for PGA Tour coverages. Amy Lillibridge talks about recent events and goals of the Evans Scholarship Foundation which awards full-ride college scholarships to caddies. Team USA is set to travel to Ireland in April of 2024 to compete on Irish links courses. The very best of Irish parkland golf and castles will play host during their trip! Amateur Golfers NO USGA GHIN Handicap required to play in Team USA Qualifiers! You could win a trip and play for Team USA in Ireland in 2025! To register visit: https:// www.usairelandgolf.com/#/ Kirk Wins, No Deal Yet with LIV, LPGA set to Start 2024 Season Amy Lillibridge Talks Current Happenings at Evans Scholarship Foundation Preview Team USA vs Team Ireland in 2024 Amateur Golf Championship Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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