Adam Schenk, U.S. Open, IHSAA State Championship & Lexi Retires With the Indianapolis 500 in the rearview mirror and the Pacers out of the NBA Playoffs, Indiana golfers can now focus solely on golf. One Indiana dad, who deserves special recognition on Father’s Day, is PGA Tour professional Adam Schenk. He will be playing in the U.S. Open at held in Pinehurst. The last Indiana golfer to win the U.S. Open was Fuzzy Zoeller, who won in 1984, after defeating Australia’s Greg Norman in an 18-hole playoff. This year’s top Indiana boys high school golfers will be playing for the individual state medalist and the team title on June 12-13 at the IHSAA’s 87th Annual Boys Golf State Finals at the Prairie View Golf Club. All tickets, $15 each, can be downloaded with your phone. Children under age five will be admitted free. Follow live scoring at BlueGolf.com. The defending IHSAA team champion is Noblesville’s Guerin Catholic and the reigning individual champion is Guerin Catholic’s Leo Wessel. Ann Liguori’s new book, “Life on the Green” features lessons and wisdom from golfing legends, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Gary Player, Nancy Lopez, Annika Sorenstam, among others. Kudos to the LPGA’s Lexi Thompson who will retire from her full-time commitment to the LPGA Tour at the end of this year. One of her 15 LPGA Tour wins came in Indiana at the 2017 Indy Women in Tech Championship at Brickyard Crossing Golf Club. She will be missed on tour. Indiana Golf Journal wishes Lexi good luck in her future endeavors. 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
34 06 12 32 38 U.S. Open Returns to Pinehurst No. 2 Will U.S. Open Qualifiers Bring The Magic Purdue Women Advance To NCAA Championship UIndy Wins NCAA Women’s Division II Championship Purdue’s Hsiao Places 34th In NCAA’s Senior PGA Held At Harbor Shores For Last Time Notre Dame’s Beaudreau Qualifies For NCAA’s Has PGA Tour Forgotten Retired Players Indiana Adaptive Golf Results Our Favorite Videos Our Contributors Review: Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond MAX Driver Met PGA to Honor Ted Bishop Crystal Mountain: One of Michigan’s Best Resorts Q & A with Alison Mecalfe From Ireland Tourism Otter Creek To Host EPSON Event 06 10 14 16 12 22 18 20 24 41 40 30 34 32 38 28 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
There are a multitude of questions heading into the 124th U.S. Open that will be held on famed Pinehurst No. 2 later this month. -Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele captured the first two major titles of 2024, but will they add a U.S. Open Trophy to their collections? -Tiger Woods will give it one more go at famed No. 2. Will his injury ravaged body let him advancements to clubs and balls? These are just a few of the questions that golf fans ponder as the time for the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst nears. Past U.S. Open Champions at Pinehurst Payne Stewart famously won the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst, but was killed just a few months later, when the private jet he was rise to the occasion one more time, or will this just be another fruitless trip to capture major title number 16? -Will LIV players, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm or Cam Smith be in the mix to win a U.S. Open Trophy? -Will famed Pinehurst No. 2 remain a relevant test for today’s golfers and be able to weather the onslaught of technological The U.S. Open Returns to Pinehurst No. 2 Indiana Golf Journal
riding in, crashed killing Stewart and four other people. Golf fans remember his final round duel with a young Phil Mickelson and Stewart hugging Phil on the 72nd green, telling him he would have many more chances to grab a U.S. Open trophy. Sadly, we lost the colorful Stewart just a short time later. Mickelson, now 53 years old, has six major titles, plus six runner-up finishes in the U.S. Open, but it appears his time London by sinking a six-foot birdie putt on the final hole. Campbell found himself four shots behind the leader Retief Goosen after 54 holes, but a final round 69 gave the Kiwi the title. He was the only golfer in the final two groups to break 80 among the four contenders. Campbell became only the second New Zealander ever to win a major championship. Fellow countryman, Bob Charles won the 1963 OPEN Championship. Campbell was also the second winner to ever win the U.S. Open via qualifying in a sectional event. In 2014, Martin Kaymer fired a final round 69 to win the U.S. Open on Pinehurst No. 2 by may have passed to grab a U.S. Open Trophy and complete his career Grand Slam. Michael Campbell, from New Zealand had 20 career worldwide wins, but only one came in the United States, the 2005 U.S. Open held at Pinehurst. The Kiwi was a consistent contender on the PGA Tour and qualified for the 2005 U.S. Open at a sectional event held at Walton Heath Golf Club in
eight shots over Erik Compton and Rickie Fowler. Kaymer fired a 69 in the final round to record the second-lowest score in U.S. Open history. It was his second major title, he also won the 2020 PGA Championship at Whistling Straits. A huge part of the mystique surrounding the U.S. Open is the qualifying process that allows any golfer with a handicap of less than .4 a chance qualify via sectional and regional tournaments. Every young American golfer visualizes sinking a putt to win the U.S. Open. Scottie Scheffler’s brother-in-law, Andrew Paysse, who is married to Scheffler’s older sister, Callie, made it through a sectional qualifier in Texas and will compete in the U.S. Open Qualifier held in Springfield, Ohio. LPGA legend, Peggy Kirk Bell’s grandson, Michael McGowan carded a 3-under 68 in a U.S. Open local qualifier at Hillendale Country Club in Phoenix, Maryland last month. The former University of North Carolina golfer and Indiana Golf Journal
now 33-year-old professional has chosen to play his 36-hole final qualifier in Dallas, Texas. Francis Ouimet made golf history, when he defeated of Francis, made it through a local qualifier in Darien, Connecticut and will attempt to make it to the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst via a qualifier at Canoe Brook Country Club on June 3. What better setting than Pinehurst No. 2 once again hosting our national championship. Donald Ross lived on the course and spent his life tweaking and perfecting his masterpiece. No. 2 has been the site of phenomenal golf. The USGA always sets up the U.S. Open course to demand the very best from competitors and it will once again provide a stern test for today’s golfers. Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, the two most prominent British golfers of the era, in the 1913 U.S. Open at Brookline Golf Club. Another Ouimet, Arthur, a distant descendant
Will Magic Happen at the U.S. Open By Len Ziehm Golf’s third major championship of 2024, the U.S. Open, tees off this month at America’s Home of Golf, Pinehurst. Donald Ross’ lifetime pet project, No. 2 will host the U.S. Open for the fourth time. The USGA entered into a long-term agreement with Pinehurst to host several national championships over the next 20 years. Donald Ross was one of the most prodigious golf course designers of his day and his courses have stood the test of time. Famed No. 2 is recognized as one of the best courses in the country, as well as the world. June 13-16, 156 of the world’s best golfers will compete for the trophy. Over 10,000 entries, both amateur and professional, were received for the tournament. Making it through local and regional qualifying is Indiana Golf Journal
nearly impossible, but many are willing to try for a shot at golfing immortality. Young kids envision making a five-foot putt to win the U.S. Open while they are learning the game at their local track. The U.S. Open and the Open Championship are the two most democratic golf tournaments in the world. Anyone with a .4 handicap, or less, can enter a qualifier. Who knows where the next U.S, Open Champion will come from? That is the beauty of the event. Along with the commitment to bring the U.S. Open to Pinehurst on multiple occasions, it is also the new home of the United States Golf Association (USGA). Pinehurst has hosted the championship on three previous occasions and it will return to Pinehurst again in 2029, 2035, 2041 and 2047. Staging a U.S. Open is a massive project for the USGA. This year’s tourney requires 109 local qualifying sessions spread over 44 states and Canada. The survivors and players exempt from locals will go through the 36-hole final eliminations that begin May 20 in England, Japan and one U.S. site. Nine other U.S. sites will host the final stage of qualifying on June 3, “the longest day in golf,” and another will be held in Canada that day. Only two golfers have ever made it through qualifying and win the U.S. Open. Ken Venturi survived extremely hot conditions to win the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club and Orville Moody won the 1969 U.S. Open at Champions Club in Houston. Magic does happen golf, who knows maybe a local qualifier will defy the odds and hoist the U.S. Open trophy on Father’s Day.
Purdue’s Hsiao Finished Tied For 34th In NCAA’s Highest finish for a Boilermaker Since 2004. The Purdue University men’s golf team had a strong start to the beginning of the third round of this year’s NCAA Men’s Golf National Championships, but the young Boilermakers cooled off late and couldn’t gain any ground on the field, wrapping up their play and participation at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa. The Boilermakers recorded a 16-over-par 304 to finish the event in 30th place with a 54hole total of 904. final 15 teams and play in the fourth round on Memorial Day. However, Purdue played holes six through nine in nine-over par to squash any comeback hopes. Purdue was eight-under par through the first five holes during the third round. For a moment, the Boilermakers entertained thoughts of a miraculous rally to make the Indiana Golf Journal
The Boilermakers then played holes 13 through 18 in 14-over par to move Purdue further down the leader board. The story, however, of round three was junior Kent Hsiao, who fired a weekend-best, twounder par 70 to finish his tournament in a 34thplace tie at five-over par. Hsiao played the back nine in one-under par and had a chance on 18 to be part of a four-player playoff on Monday morning to gain a spot in the fourth round, but his 10-foot birdie putt just slipped by, ending his NCAA Championships run. His round of 70 was the ninth-best score in round three. His 34th-place finish was Purdue’s highest individual placing in the NCAA Championships since Shiv Kapur in 2004. Herman Sekne ended his Purdue career with a 95th-place finish at 12-over par 228 (73-79-76). Sekne started well in round three with birdies on his first and fourth hole, but suffered five bogeys in an eight-hole stretch midway through the round to drop him out of contention for a spot in Monday’s fourth round. Peyton Snoeberger finished tied for 101st at 13over par 229 (79-73-77). Snoeberger was threeunder par through five holes, but played his last seven holes in six-over par to also drop him out of contention for a spot in Monday’s round. Nels Surtani was 146th at 38-over par 254 (8686-82), while Nick Dentino played the final two rounds in 18-over par (81-81=162).
Purdue Women Advance to NCAA Tournament The 2024 Spring season for the Purdue University women’s golf team came to an end after 54 holes at the NCAA Championships in Carlsbad, California in 29th place, missing the fourth-round cut. For the third straight day, Momo Sugiyama led the Boilermakers in scoring. The Australian fired a 75 (three-over-par). She finished well by playing the final five holes in twounder-par in the third round. The young Aussie concluded the tournament at seven-over-par (72-76-75—223) for the tournament and in a tie for 57th place. Jasmine Kahler and Natasha Kiel added 77s for Purdue in the third round. Both players concluded their three rounds tied at 230 Indiana Golf Journal
We’ll do the hard work if you don’t want to. Custom or DIY Golf Simulator Sales & Installation. www.aceindoorgolf.com l 855-926-3283 (14-over-par) and finished in a tie for 106th place. Playing her 118th and final round as a Boilermaker, Ashley Kozlowski carded an eightover-par round of 80 in the third round of NCAA Tournament. Over her Purdue career, she appeared in 41 tournaments, registered 14 Top 20 finishes and nine Top 10 performances. The Lady Boilermakers finished the second season under head coach Zack Byrd with two wins and four topthree finishes throughout the 2023-24 campaign. The Lady Boilermakers won the Boilermaker Classic and the Mary Fossum Invitational. It was the first time in seven years that Purdue’s Lady Boilermakers golf team won multiple tournaments in a season. The Lady Boilermakers also recorded two of the lowest five-team totals (over 54 holes) second at the NCAA Las Vegas Regional to advance to the NCAA Championships for the 19th time in program history. Continuing with the successful tradition of Purdue women’s golf, at least two Lady Boilermakers -- Kozlowski and Sugiyama -- landed on the All-Big Ten list for the 16th time in the past 22 years. Both Kozlowski and Sugiyama earned second team All-Big Ten honors. in school history, a programbest 837 at the Schooner Fall Classic and an 852 at the season-opening Boilermaker Classic. This past season, Purdue placed fourth at the Big Ten Championships with an evenpar 864, the Lady Boilermakers’ best score in the league tournament since 2016. The Lady Boilermakers secured their ninth straight NCAA Regional appearance after finishing
UIndy Women Grab NCAA Division II Title By Ryan Thorpe The University of Indianapolis (UIndy) Women’s Golf Team is the top women’s Division II golf team in the country. Last month the Lady Greyhounds won the 2024 NCAA Division II National Championship in dramatic fashion in Winter Haven, Florida. After UIndy battled St. Mary’s (Texas) to a stalemate in the final of the match-play round, the Lady Greyhounds earned a single-stroke win in the first sudden-death playoff hole to claim its third national title since 2015. The teams ended the final round in a tie. Outside of Anci Dy’s impressive 67 and six-stroke win, the other four pairs were separated by a combined three strokes. Freshman Caroline Whallon earned a point for UIndy, thanks in part to a clutch birdie on the 16th hole. Jess Haines battled to a tie in her pairing, while Ava Ray and Matilda Cederholm each lost by a single stroke. The tiebreaker was once again in order, but unlike the quarterfinal’s total-score metric, the final demanded that the teams play it out on the golf course. The 18th hole was selected as the first sudden death hole and all 10 players—two fivesomes—returned to the 18th tee. In the playoff, UIndy’s combined team score was -1 (one-under-par) which was good enough to beat St. Mary’s by a single, solitary stroke. Well done to the Lady Greyhounds of UIndy. Indiana Golf Journal
Notre Dame’s Lauren Beaudreau Wins NCAA Regional Notre Dame graduate student, Lauren Beaudreau became the first Golden Domer to win an NCAA Regional. Last month in East Lansing she fired three rounds of 68-6967, 12-under par to qualify as an individual for the Women’s Division I NCAA Championship. “Lauren was unshakeable this week,” said head coach Caroline Powers Ellis. “Forest Akers West is a ball striker’s golf course and Lauren is one of the best ball strikers I’ve ever seen. She was locked in from the start of the week and was patient and poised through all three rounds.” By Fred Altvater In the NCAA Women’s Division I Championship held at the Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, California, Beaudreau’s great run came to an end. She posted three rounds of 72-73-79 and finished T-64, just a single stroke shy of making it to the final round. “It’s been fun to follow her this postseason,” said head coach Caroline Powers Ellis. “What an impressive way to end her career here.” Beaudreau finished her final year at Notre Dame strongly, recording five top-15 finishes with a win at the Bruzzy and a first place finish at the NCAA East Lansing Regional, the first regional title in program history. Beaudreau started off strong and continued her consistent play throughout all three rounds, breaking her own personal best of 10-under par, as well as setting a new 54hole record score. She recorded an impressive 14 birdies and one eagle. She recorded seven birdies in round three. “She has been playing great all season and what a time for everything to come together to break her own 54-hole scoring record en route to the victory,” said Powers Ellis. “The best part is, she is not done yet and is definitely one to watch out for at the National Championship. We can’t wait to get to California and represent the Irish!” Indiana Golf Journal
Has the PGA Tour Forgotten Former Winners? Opinion The PGA Tour recently received a large investment of $1.5 billion from several large sports team owners and is in the process of dividing much of it among current players to buy their loyalty to the PGA Tour. The tour seeking outside financing was prompted by the LIV Tour raiding top name players and signing them to guaranteed contracts. The Fenway Group, owners of the Boston Red Sox, as well as the Liverpool Football Club, along with the owners of the Celtics, Mets and Brewers, plus Arthur Blanc, owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, have invested $1.5 billion into the tour to bolster tournament purses. This huge windfall is to be distributed among 192 PGA Tour members, in an effort to keep them on the American tour. Negotiations are continuing with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, the owners of the LIV, that could bring in as much as an additional $2 billion of new investment. Does Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy really need another $50 million windfall when they have already earned millions over their careers? It seems the tour has completely forgotten about the players that helped build the tour in the past and do not have any plan to share the wealth with retired players. The PGA Tour has always been owned by the players, but it appears that the Commissioner and his administrative officers were making all the decisions. With recent changes to the Player’s Policy Board, the players gained control and have taken a more active role in the decision-making. The current plan is to split this new investment capital among current players. Back 9 Report talked with retired PGA Tour winner, Dan Pohl about being left out of the discussions and his thoughts on the current financial arrangements of the tour. View the complete interview HERE. Insert video Thumbnail Here It appears that current day players are once again being greedy and selfish, omitting former tour members from these current negotiations and revenue disbursement. By Fred Altvater Indiana Golf Journal
Senior PGA Visits Harbor Shores For Last Time By Fred Altvater Last month, the 84th Senior PGA Championship was held at Harbor Shores Golf Club in Benton Harbor for the sixth time in the last 12 years. It was also the last time it will be held there. Harbor Shores Golf Club is located in southwestern Michigan, not too far from the Indiana/Michigan border and has been a favorite destination for Indiana golfers. Roger Chapman won the title the first time the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship titles at Harbor Shores in 2014, when he beat Tom Watson by four strokes. Monty also won the Senior PGA the following year at French Lick. visited Harbor Shores with an impressive win over John Cook. Colin Montgomerie won his first of two consecutive Senior PGA Indiana Golf Journal
Rocco Mediate won the 2016 championship, besting the defending champion, Montgomerie by three strokes. In 2018, Paul Broadhurst beat Tim Petrovic to hoist the trophy. Harbor Shores hosted the 2022 Senior PGA won by Steven Alker, who fired a closing round 63 to capture the title by three strokes over Stephen Ames. Harbor Shores Golf Club has a unique history and helped change the economic fortunes for the Benton Harbor area, providing much needed jobs. In addition to the additional employment opportunities, the tournament has brought golf groups to the community that want to test their games on the Jack Nicklaus design, stay in the overnight lodging and enjoy dining in this southwestern Michigan destination. Padraig Harrington said about the course, “This golf course is quite a tricky course for me because there of the risk-reward. Players need to hit it pretty straight. A lot of 3-woods off the tee and not a lot of drivers. So, yeah, you don’t want to lose focus too often out here. There is trouble out there. If you are hitting good shots there are plenty of opportunities, especially with the way the greens are designed. There is a lot of collection areas, so if you’re hitting good shots the ball moves towards the flag and if you’re hitting bad shots, you’re leaving yourself in trouble.” Bernhard Langer shared these thoughts about Harbor Shores, “I thought this was a great golf course from the very get go. I think from tee-to-green it’s one of the best there is. Just some of the greens are a little bit severe, that’s all. But it’s always been in great condition and very well received.” Included in the field was Indiana’s Craig Bowden, a PGA Life Member, from Bloomington. He finished T-13 at the 2023 Senior PGA Professional Championship to earn a spot in this year’s Senior PGA Championship. Bowden played in 152 PGA Tour events 1997-2010. He also won the 1994 and 1995 Indiana Opens, qualified for seven major championships, five of those U.S. Opens to go along with two PGA Championship starts. He is a member of the Indiana Golf Hall of Fame. Last month’s KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship marks the last dance for the event at Harbor Shores under the umbrella of the PGA of America in Benton Harbor. Harbor Shores has been an every-other-year host since 2012. KitchenAid and the PGA of America have enjoyed an impactful 13-year run, making a huge mark in this Michigan community and leaving plenty to celebrate.
Indiana Golf Journal
Promoting Inclusivity Through Adaptive Golf By Renee Adam The Indiana Golf Association (IGA) hosted the highly anticipated third annual Indiana Adaptive Championship at the Golf Club of Indiana in Whitestown over the May 4th weekend. This year’s event saw an impressive turnout, with 28 competitors traveling from nine states and two Canadian provinces, underscoring the growing enthusiasm and participation in adaptive golf across North America. Evan Mathias of Indianapolis emerged victorious in the Overall Men’s Division, triumphing in a thrilling four-hole playoff against Robby Donarski of Franklin, Wisconsin. Mathias, the defending champion, praised the high level of competition and the challenging nature of the course. “Robbie really made the day fun,” Mathias said. “It was back and forth all day long, with anything possible. Just consistency was the strongest part of my game this week. I only missed four greens all weekend, I didn’t three putt, and only had one bad swing all day.” Mathias’s performance was marked by remarkable consistency. Over the weekend, he posted three bogeys, all in the first round, and recorded eight birdies and 25 pars, finishing with a score of five under par. Born with congenital defects to both legs, Mathias has used prosthetics since he was one year old. His impressive resume includes participation in the 2022 and 2023 U.S. Adaptive Opens, where he won the Multiple Leg division last year and finished 29th overall. Mathias also holds a ParaLong Drive record of 398 yards and will compete in the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open. This July, Mathias will represent Team USA in
the Cairns Cup at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Michigan, a “disabled Ryder Cup” between the U.S. and Europe. “It’s a disabled Ryder Cup between the U.S. and Europe so each team is going to have different sport categories in terms of disabilities,” said Mathias. “And then we have to build a team based on a different number of actual golf handicap ranges.” Playing in the 0-5 handicap range, Mathias is set to showcase his skills on an international stage. Other notable winners Nancy Towers of Downers Grove, Illinois, who claimed the title in the Overall Women’s Division, showcasing her skill and determination. Meanwhile, Alan Gentry from Louisville, Kentucky, emerged victorious in the Overall Senior Division, thanks to his consistent play, which included three birdies and 20 pars. Johannes Grames of Vancouver finished just three strokes behind Gentry, which highlighted the competitive nature of the event. The Indiana Adaptive Championship underscores the IGA’s dedication to promoting amateur golf through inclusivity and accessibility. Recent research conducted by the National Center on Accessibility at Indiana University, in collaboration with Clemson University, reveals promising trends in adaptive golf participation. Currently, 10 percent of individuals with disabilities play golf, but a significant 35 percent express interest in learning the sport, highlighting the potential for further growth and engagement. The Division Winners were: • Above Knee (G1): Johannes Grames • Below Knee (G2): Josh Williams • Multiple Leg (G3): Evan Mathias • Arm-Unassisted (G4): Alan Gentry • Arm-Assisted (G5): Jonathan Snyder • Arm & Leg Imp. (G7): Tracy Ramin • CP/MD (G8): Robby Donarski • Visual (G11, G12, G13): Kenny Gentile • Short Stature (G14): Ethan Crough • ID (G15): John Mullins • Overall Senior: Alan Gentry • Overall Men’s: Evan Mathias • Overall Women’s: Nancy Towers Many participants from this tournament competed in the United States Golf Association (USGA) Adaptive Open Qualifier at the Broadmoor Country Club. Indianapolis was selected by the USGA largely in part due to the IGA hosting the Indianapolis Adaptive Championship for three consecutive years. To be eligible for the qualifier, male and female professional and amateur golfers with a Handicap Index of 36.4 or less and an eligible impairment confirmed by a WR4GD Pass can play. The Adaptive Open features multiple sets of tees and is contested over 54 holes of stroke play. Qualifying for the USGA Adaptive Open was Joshua Williams in the Men’s Division and Sophia Howard in the Women’s Division. The IGA continues to champion adaptive golf, fostering a community where all players, regardless of their physical abilities, can experience the joy and camaraderie of the sport. Indiana Golf Journal
Callaway has expanded the Paradym Ai Smoke family with the Triple Diamond MAX Driver, a 460cc clubhead model, which the company claims has better workability. The low-spin Triple Diamond driver has been a favorite of touring professionals for the past several years and was used by Xander Schauffele for his win last week at the PGA Championship. The new Triple Diamond MAX, however, is turning heads on practice tees and has found its way into some Callaway staff players’ bags already. An addition to the Ai Smoke family (MAX, MAX D, MAX Fast and Triple Diamond) the new MAX compared to the regular Triple Diamond has a clubhead of 460cc versus 450cc. The MAX also provides less dispersion and is more forgiving. The club’s workability that better players prefer has been increased by adding slightly more spin to the Ai-designed face which has less face progression than the regular Triple Diamond. To help with precisely adjusting the center of gravity location to that desired by the user there are two sole weights, a 10-gram rear and 4-gram front, which may be switched to increase ball speed and lower spin. The Ai Smart Face that was designed with data from thousands of real players allows for micro deflections at impact to give the best launch possible when the ball strike is not in the exact center. Callaway claims, “the result is sweet spots not just in the center, but all over the face.” The clubhead’s body has also been tweaked to refine the weight distribution and the internal titanium supports have been reduced in weight by 15% to improve weight redistribution. Fast Facts: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond MAX Driver 460cc clubhead model, which the Callaway claims has better workability. Better player category Ai-designed Smart face Two sole weights, 10g rear & 4g front Lofts: 9°, 10.5° Stock shaft: Denali Project X Blue Available in Retail Stores: 6/7/2024 Pricing: $599.99 Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond MAX Driver By Ed Travis Indiana Golf Journal
TED BISHOP HONORED THE MET PGA SECTION The Metropolitan Section of the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (Met PGA) has proudly announced that Indiana’s Ted Bishop will receive the prestigious Sam Snead Award. This accolade recognizes Bishop’s exceptional remarkable foresight and dedication by spearheading the efforts to bring both the 2019 PGA Championship and the upcoming 2025 Ryder Cup to Bethpage State Park’s renowned Black Course,” said Stuart Waack, President Met PGA. “These major championships have not only elevated the profile of golf in the Metropolitan New York area but have also provided unparalleled opportunities for golf enthusiasts and professionals alike.” contributions to the Met Section and the broader golf community. “Ted Bishop’s impact on the Met Section has been profound and enduring. During his tenure as President of the PGA of America, Ted demonstrated Indiana Golf Journal
Even though Bishop lives and works in Indiana, his family has an active presence in the Met PGA. “Beyond his instrumental role in securing these landmark events, Ted Bishop has left an indelible mark on the Metropolitan golf community through his leadership and vision,” added Waack. “His daughter, Ambry, serves as a Met PGA Assistant at The Saint Andrew’s Golf Club in Westchester, New York, and as the coach of the St. John’s University women’s golf team. Previous Snead Award recipients include Harry “Lighthorse” Cooper, winner of 37 PGA Tour events; Joseph C. Dey Jr., USGA Executive Director from 1934-68; Claude Harmon, former Masters Champion; Gene Sarazen, seven-time major champion; Paul Runyan, two-time PGA Championship winner; Dave Marr II, legendary ABC sportscaster who was a PGA champion and Ryder Cup captain; Ely Callaway, founder of Callaway Golf and many other golf legends from the New York City Metropolitan area. “I was humbled beyond words when the Met PGA informed me of this great honor,” said Bishop. “My respect for the New York City area and its golf professionals is immeasurable. I’ve been very fortunate in my career to experience a lot of great things through golf, but absolutely nothing means more to me than receiving the Sam Snead Award from the Met PGA. This is really the pinnacle of my career and I am so grateful.” Bishop will be honored along with the other 2024 Special Award winners at a special dinner later this year which will include video tributes to the honorees with fellow PGA members, family, friends and club members in the audience. Ambry’s own achievements as an award-winning golf professional underscore the legacy of excellence and passion for the sport that Ted has instilled within his family and the broader golf community.” Originated in 1956, the Snead Award criteria was left intentionally vague although the intent was obvious. The award would be presented to an individual in recognition of his or her contributions to the game of golf, the PGA and the Met Section. While all of the other Special Awards are presented only to PGA members, the Snead Award could honor professionals or amateurs and its list of recipients reads like a ‘who’s who’ of golf in the Metropolitan area.
Q & A With Alison Metcalfe Of Tourism Ireland By Mike May During the Masters, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alison Metcalfe, an Executive Vice President for Tourism Ireland. Q: What is the big appeal of planning a trip to Ireland? Metcalfe: The (British) Open Championship is returning to Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland next year (2025) and the Ryder Cup will be held in Ireland at Adare Manor in 2027. Golf in Ireland is in a good Q: What are the popular times of the year to travel to Ireland for golf? Metcalfe: Most American visitors come to Ireland April through October. The best pricing is available in the ‘shoulder’ seasons, April, or October. position right now for visiting golfers. Q: What are some of the many appealing destinations for golfers who visit Ireland? Metcalfe: More than onethird of all the links golf courses in the world can be found in either The Irish Republic, or Northern Ireland. There are also many inland/parkland golf courses to play, such as the K-Club and Mt. Joliet. Indiana Golf Journal
Q: Besides playing golf, what are other sights to see? Metcalfe: Ireland is much more than just a golf destination. Visitors enjoy hiking along our coastline, bicycling through the countryside, visiting historic castles, attending the many annual festivals, sightseeing in Dublin, Belfast, and Shannon. Throughout Ireland, many old railway tracks have been turned into walking paths. In August, Dublin will host the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, a football game between Florida State and the Georgia Tech. Q: What are some of the iconic views that are the must-see destinations for golfers visiting Ireland? Metcalfe: The views from 14th hole at Royal Portrush, the entire front nine at Port Stewart, the many blind tee shots at Royal County Down, the landscaping at Carne in northwest Ireland, and the many views from the golf course at Ballyliffin. Q: Of the many pubs scattered around Ireland, can you name a few of memorable destinations? Metcalfe: In Dublin, I highly suggest visiting the Old Stand and Foley’s. In Belfast, two of the famous pubs are The Crown Saloon and Fibber McGee’s. The entire country is filled with Metcalfe: Delta, American, and United and Aer Lingus have several daily trips directly to Dublin or Shannon. There are17 U.S. airports that offer direct flights to Dublin. Q: What is the best way to book a trip to Ireland and do some research on where to go, where to stay, what to do, and where to play golf? Metcalfe: Visit www.ireland. com/golf. There are links to experienced travel operators that specialize in golf packages for golfers, as well as the casual traveler. and tourists who want to come to Ireland. Ireland was named Europe’s Best Golf Destination 2020 at the World Golf Awards. great pubs, many of which serve delicious food. Q: What are some of the more popular and historic sightseeing destinations in Ireland? Metcalfe: Dublin has been voted one of the top ten friendliest cities in the world. The Giants Causeway, in Northern Ireland is something that everybody enjoys seeing. The West Coast of Ireland is the the longest coastal touring route in the world. Not many people realize this, but Belfast was the home of the Titanic Q: What is the best way to travel to Ireland?
By David Theoret, The Golfinguy Crystal Mountain: One of Michigan’s Best Year-Round Resorts Depending on your favorite season, Crystal Mountain Resort is either a ski resort with 59 well-groomed downhill runs, or a golf resort with 36 holes of championship golf. Regardless of the season, it’s one of Northern Michigan’s best resorts. Crystal Mountain began as a school project when a geography teacher at nearby Benzonia High School tasked his students to find the best place in the county to start a ski area. The students determined the Buck Hills Range offered the best combination of terrain and snowfall. The Buck Hills Ski Area became a reality in 1956 with a rope tow powered by an old pickup truck engine and a warming hut built with donated lumber. In 1960, Buck Hills became Crystal Mountain Resort when it was purchased by 96 shareholders, many of whom had homes nearby. The new owners made substantial upgrades including a new lodge with dining and lodging for overnight guests. By 1966, the number of owners had dwindled to a small handful, who realized that the best way for the resort to be profitable was to make it a year-round destination. Fast forward to 1981 Indiana Golf Journal
and sole ownership of Crystal Mountain fell to the George Petritz family and the Petritz family has owned and operated the resort since that time. Golf entered the equation at Crystal Mountain in 1977 with the opening of the Betsie Valley golf course. A second course, Mountain Ridge followed in 1995. Both courses have received the prestigious 4-star rating from Golf Digest Magazine and are members of America’s Summer Golf Capital, a collection of resort properties that feature 26 golf courses across northern Michigan. The Thistle restaurant and bar, plus an outdoor patio oftentimes features live music. recognized as one of the best golf schools by Golf Digest. Since opening in 1977, the Betsie Valley course has received many upgrades, most recently in 2021. Renovations included widening the fairways, building new tee boxes, a forestry management project to The Crystal Mountain’s 10-acre learning center and practice facility features a targeted grass range, along with a short game area, featuring chipping and putting greens, complete with sand bunkers for practicing. The Learning Center is also home to Crystal Mountain Golf School, which has been
clear out brush, redesigned cart paths, and more. Even with all of these changes, the course still retains its original character and is now more playable than ever before. Betsie Valley is spread across the rolling terrain which is blanketed in mature forests of pine and hardwoods. Water comes into play on several holes, and although there are only a few bunkers on the entire course, the majority of golfers tend to find at least one during their rounds. The tight, tree-lined fairways are often accented with wildflowers and lead to small, severely sloped greens making Betsie Valley more of a shotmaker’s course. The Mountain Ridge course was carved from the mountainside, ranging from 6,973 to 5,018 yards to accommodate golfers of all abilities. With a course this beautiful there are many memorable holes but what I remember most are the par 3s; they were scenic, challenging, and fun to play. The second hole plays 143 yards, slightly downhill into an hourglass-shaped green with bunkers on either side as well as water on the left. The green is deeper than it is wide, so distance control is important. When it comes to lodging, Crystal Mountain offers a wide variety of accommodations. offering both a challenge and some terrific views. The golf course covers a range of elevation changes from subtle to spectacular. In total, navigating the course requires golfers to ascend over 200 feet during their round. Mountain Ridge is situated among huge Northern Michigan pine trees that frame many of the fairways and greens. Water is a predominant factor on the first four holes. Bunkers and sandy waste areas are more prevalent on Mountain Ridge than on Betsie Valley and usually factor into play. This course emphasizes brains over brawn, and having a sound strategy for each hole is important. Both Betsie Valley, Mountain Ridge offer four sets of tees and combo yardage with distances Indiana Golf Journal
Visitors can choose from hotelstyle rooms that sleep two or four guests to mountainside homes that sleep up to 14. There are also bungalows and cottages that are equipped with everything you will need during your stay. Crystal Mountain offers several dining alternatives from pizza and subs at Betsie River Pizza to casual fine dining at property where skiers can enjoy a cocktail and shareables outside under the twinkling lights of the Michigan sky. A golf vacation to Northern Michigan just isn’t complete without a visit to Crystal Mountain. Visit their website at www.crystalmountain.com to see everything they have to offer year-round and plan your next visit. The Thistle. As its name implies, this Scottish-themed venue has something for everyone. It’s best described as come-as-youare fine dining. The menu is eclectic with everything from burgers and fries to Cornish hen and rack of lamb. Breakfast is served daily at the Wild Tomato and they also serve lunch and dinner. During the winter, Wild Tomato adds several “igloos” to their
Otter Creek To Host Epson Tour Event The Epson Tour has two new events on its schedule this year and one of them is being held at Otter Creek in Columbus, June 14-16. The Otter Creek Championship will showcase the next generation of female golfers and will feature Indiana golfers. Zionsville’s Annabelle Pancake, Greenwood’s Erica Shepherd, and Westfield’s Cailyn Henderson are scheduled to compete. golf course was made to host high-level championships and will provide an unparalleled experience for the Epson Tour players and the Otter Creek Golf community.” “Adding Otter Creek Golf Course to our ground-breaking 2024 Epson Tour schedule was a no-brainer, given the course’s storied history of amateur championship golf,” said Keith Newton, Epson Tour Senior Director of Tournament The Otter Creek Championship is one of five Epson Tour events with at least a $300,000 purse, making it one of the top Epson Tour events. “We are excited to bring the Otter Creek Championship to Otter Creek Golf Course and give the amazing golf fans of Columbus and surrounding areas a chance to witness the future of the LPGA up close,” said Austin Wright, Director of Golf, Otter Creek. “This Indiana Golf Journal
Business Affairs. “We are confident it will present a test for the Epson Tour’s top golfers while celebrating its incredible and supportive community in Columbus, Indiana.” The Otter Creek Golf Course, the only Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design in Indiana, is a championship public golf course which is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, since opening in 1964. Otter Creek has hosted nearly 300 amateur events and of three will enjoy 18 holes at Otter Creek Golf Club, complete with meals, drinks, custom gifts, and tickets to the “Meet the Pros” dinner held on Wednesday, June 12. General admission is free to the public. As a testament to its commitment to the community, proceeds from the 2024 Otter Creek Championship will directly benefit Turning Point Domestic Violence Services, the event’s charitable beneficiary. The Epson Tour is the Official Qualifying Tour of the LPGA. In the last decade, it has grown to 20 events offering over $5 million in total purses. For more information on volunteering, joining a ProAm team, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact thegolfshop@ottercreekgolf. com. More details on the 2024 Otter Creek Championship can be found at www. ottercreekgolf.com/2024-ottercreek-championship. championship events during its 60-year history, but this will be the first professional event at Otter Creek in more than 25 years. More than 100 volunteers are needed to ensure the event’s success, with roles that include scoring, player services, and tournament operations. The volunteer registration fee is $60. Each volunteer will receive a tournament T-shirt, free parking, complimentary food and beverage, and behind-the-ropes access to the LPGA Tour’s future stars. Additionally, fans will have two opportunities to play with the pros. Monday, June 10, the Harrison Lake Country Club’s “Ladies Only” Pro-Am will be held. The event features a ninehole scramble, refreshments, and a clinic with Epson Tour players. On Thursday, June 13, teams of three golfers will play and learn alongside the lady pros who are competing in the Otter Creek Championship. Teams
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 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 Theoret 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 Indiana Golf Journal
VIDEOS BOYNE’s Director of Marketing and Sales, Ken Griffin talks about the International Association of Golf Tour Operators that will hold their annual convention at the resort this year. Even though Team Scotland won the actual competition, there were no losers at the Team USA vs Team Scotland Amateur Golf Championship held in Scotland. Back 9 Report chatted with Dan Pohl, former PGA Tour winner and asked about the $1.2 billion windfall for current tour players, while former tour players, that built the tour, have been completely forgotten. Boyne To Host The International Association of Golf Tour Operators Team USA Lost to Team Scotland, But a Good Time Was Had By All Has The PGA Tour Forgotten The Retired Players Watch Now Watch Now Watch Now
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