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ADVOCATING FOR THE GAME: NATIONAL GOLF DAY PUTS GOLF’S IMPACT IN THE SPOTLIGHT

The true impact of golf is rarely measured solely on the scorecard; it is found in the economic engine, environmental stewardship, and community resources that the game provides. This summer, Southern California PGA Executive Director/ CEO Nikki Gatch, PGA, and Advocacy Manager Matt Rogers traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent the Southern California PGA at National Golf Day. Joining nearly 300 passionate individuals from across the country, they participated in a dynamic multi-day event designed to showcase golf’s massive societal footprint and ensure our voice remains influential in federal policy.

The week kicked off with a dedicated community service project on the National Mall, followed by a PGA of America Government Affairs meeting to align on industry priorities. The cornerstone of the week, however, involved direct, face-to-face advocacy on Capitol Hill. The delegation met with numerous congressional offices to brief lawmakers on several vital, timely issues currently facing the golf community.

Among the primary legislative topics was the Personal Health and Investment Today (PHIT) Act, which would allow pre-tax medical accounts to cover youth sports and fitness expenses, making golf more accessible to the next generation. They also advocated for the Protect Access to Recreation (PAR) Act to protect golf

courses during times of economic impact, and pushed for H-2B Visa Cap Relief to address critical seasonal labor shortages that heavily impact daily golf course operations. Additionally, the delegation voiced strong support for Permanent Daylight Saving Time, a move that would extend evening daylight hours to boost both recreational play and local economies.

For golfers and supporters in California and across the nation, this trip serves as a vital reminder that the future of our fairways is deeply intertwined with public policy. Decisionmakers need to understand that golf facilities are crucial community

assets, major employers, and drivers of charitable giving. When leaders like the Southern California PGA take our message directly to Washington, they pave the way for a more resilient industry. However, true advocacy requires a grassroots effort. The next time you see a policy alert from your local golf association, remember that your voice is the most powerful club in the bag—and protecting the game we love depends on all of us stepping up to the tee.

Want to support advocacy in SoCal? Contact Matt Rogers at mrogers@pgahq.com with your questions or comments.

RODEA BREAKS THROUGH TO CAPTURE 126TH CALIFORNIA STATE OPEN

Isaac Rodea returned to Bear Creek Golf Club with unfinished business and left as the 126th California State Open Champion. The Temecula native fired rounds of 69-70-64-68 for a 17-under-par total of 271, finishing three shots clear of the field.

Held June 22-25 at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta, the championship is conducted by the Southern California PGA and annually attracts many of California’s top professionals and elite amateurs.

After finishing just one shot shy of the title a year ago, Rodea used his familiarity with Bear Creek’s Jack Nicklaus-designed layout to capture one of California’s most prestigious championships.

“It feels really good to win this Championship here at Bear Creek,” Rodea said. “To get redemption after coming so close last year means the world to me.”

Laguna Niguel’s Hudson Vedder earned Low Amateur honors at 14-under-par 274, highlighted by a tournamentbest 10-under 62 in the third round.

First contested in 1900, the California State Open is California’s oldest professional golf championship. Past champions include Walter Hagen, Gene Littler, Jerry Barber, Roger Maltbie, Kirk Triplett and Jason Gore. Complete results and tournament information are available at scpga.com and BlueGolf.com

39 HOLES TO GLORY: KAILER STONE WINS CALIFORNIA AMATEUR

The 115th California Amateur Championship delivered a dramatic finish at historic Hacienda Golf Club in La Habra Heights, where Kailer Stone of Alameda captured the prestigious Edward B. Tufts Trophy after an epic 39-hole championship match.

The tournament began with 36 holes of stroke play before the field was cut to the top 32 for match play. Mitchell Hoey of Alamo earned medalist honors with brilliant rounds of 65-66 (-13), finishing nine shots clear of the field. His opening 65 came within one stroke of the Hacienda course record set by Tiger Woods during the 1994 SCGA Amateur Championship.

The final paired Team California members Max Emberson of Thousand Oaks against Stone, an incoming Pepperdine freshman and two-time defending Northern California Junior champion. Emberson held a two-hole lead with three holes remaining, but Stone rallied by winning the 16th and 17th holes before both players bogeyed the 36th sending the match to extra holes, the first California Amateur final playoff since 1999.

After two playoff pars, Stone buried a birdie on the 39th hole to secure the title and earn an exemption into the 126th U.S. Amateur Championship at historic Merion Golf Club, capping one of the most memorable finishes in championship history.

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FOWLKES CAPTURES HISTORIC SCGA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

Representing host club Valencia Country Club, Luke Fowlkes made the most of his exemption by capturing the 127th SCGA Amateur Championship, winning the nation’s second-longest continuously contested amateur championship by three shots. With his father serving as caddie, Fowlkes delivered a memorable hometown victory and earned a place alongside some of the game’s biggest names.

Fowlkes entered the final round with a two-shot lead over Coy Dobson of Del Mar. Dobson briefly narrowed the gap with an opening birdie, but Fowlkes answered immediately and regained control when Dobson stumbled with a double bogey early in the round.

Despite battling inconsistent ball striking in the final round, Fowlkes relied on a steady putter and timely shotmaking to card an even-par 71. His four-round total of 5-under-par 279 was enough to finish three shots ahead of runner-up Cole Kim of Orange, while Dobson finished among the championship’s top contenders.

Fowlkes overcame three front-nine bogeys before settling in on the back nine, highlighted by a birdie on the 17th hole that effectively sealed the victory. He closed with a routine par on the 18th as a gallery of spectators followed him home to celebrate the biggest win of his amateur career.

The victory earns Fowlkes a 10-year exemption into the SCGA Amateur Championship and a coveted exemption into the 2026 U.S. Amateur Championship. His name now joins an impressive list of past champions that includes Tiger Woods, Patrick Cantlay, Sahith Theegala, Beau Hossler, and Rico Hoey.

Luke Fowlkes

ISHIYAMA WINS SECOND SCGA WOMEN’S AMATEUR TITLE

Megan Ishiyama added another chapter to her impressive amateur career, capturing her second SCGA Women’s Amateur Championship with a one-shot victory at Valencia Country Club. Ishiyama, who also claimed the prestigious Fischer Trophy in 2024 at The Saticoy Club, held off a strong field that included former champion Ashley Yun and Sophia Lin in a dramatic final round.

The championship remained undecided until the closing holes as Ishiyama, Yun, and Lin were tied on the back nine. Lin’s title hopes faded after trouble on the par-5 15th, while Yun, the 2022 SCGA Women’s Amateur champion, briefly moved into the lead before Ishiyama answered with a birdie on the 16th to pull even.

The two finalists arrived at the 18th hole tied for the championship. After both narrowly missed birdie opportunities, Yun was unable to convert a par putt, leaving the door open for Ishiyama, who calmly holed her own par putt to secure the victory.

The win earns Ishiyama an exemption into the 2026 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship, along with spots in the 2026 California Women’s Amateur Championship and the 2026 SCGA Women’s Match Play Championship. Yun’s runner-up finish and Lin’s strong performance made for one of the most competitive SCGA Women’s Amateur Championships in recent years.

Maggie Hathaway’s Remarkable Rebirth

GIL HANSE

TRANSFORMS A

HISTORIC MUNICIPAL COURSE INTO ONE OF CALIFORNIA’S MOST INSPIRING PUBLIC GOLF DESTINATIONS.

For more than 60 years, Maggie Hathaway Golf Course has introduced thousands of golfers to the game in the heart of South Los Angeles. Long known as one of Southern California’s most affordable places to play, the historic nine-hole, par-3 course has undergone a remarkable transformation led by acclaimed golf course architect Gil Hanse, creating one of the country’s most exciting municipal golf renovations.

Known for designing and restoring some of golf’s most celebrated courses—including the Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janeiro, Los Angeles Country Club, Merion, and Winged Foot—Hanse approached Maggie Hathaway with a unique vision. Rather than simply modernizing the layout, he created a course that introduces

golfers to many of golf architecture’s most celebrated design concepts while preserving the character that has made Maggie Hathaway a neighborhood favorite for generations.

“The most important thing we can do with this golf course is also the most difficult,” Hanse said during the renovation. “We need to make it better, but we don’t want to change it. We want to make sure that this golf course is still recognizable and enjoyable to the people who have been here for 30 or 40 years.”

Each hole now reflects design inspiration from some of golf’s most iconic courses. Players will encounter a classic Redan, a Reverse Redan, a Double Plateau green inspired by National Golf Links of America, and green complexes influ-

enced by George C. Thomas masterpieces such as Riviera Country Club and Los Angeles Country Club. The result is a fun, educational experience that allows golfers of every skill level to appreciate timeless architecture.

The renovation extends well beyond the greens. Every bunker, tee and fairway was rebuilt, while new Bermuda turf and a state-ofthe-art irrigation system improve year-round conditions and reduce water consumption. Expanded practice facilities, including a redesigned driving range and short-game area, further enhance the experience for beginners, juniors and accomplished players alike.

Made possible through a partnership between Los Angeles County, the USGA, the Southern California Golf Association, Los Angeles Country Club and numerous private donors, the project demonstrates what can be accomplished when the golf community invests in public golf.

Today, Maggie Hathaway stands as far more than a beautifully renovated municipal course. It is a celebration of affordable golf, timeless architecture and community—a shining example that world-class golf experiences don’t have to come with a private club membership.

BUILDING ON A PROUD LEGACY, HORSESHOE BAY RESORT IS BETTER THAN EVER

PREMIER CENTRAL TEXAS VACATION DESTINATION IS READY FOR PRIME TIME

Horseshoe Bay Resort has never been a modest proposition. The place has a lot to offer its guests, including opportunities to play 54 holes of golf, attend a golf school, and take part in all sorts of water recreation, racquet sports, and enjoy exquisite dining along with an action-packed sports bar.

But Horseshoe Bay Resort, founded more than 50 years ago in the Texas Hill Country on Lake LBJ, about 45 minutes from Austin, Texas, never stands pat. The owners and management there continue to refine all aspects of the resort year after year. There’s no better example of that than the golf experience itself, which is arguably in its golden era.

This year, the whole nation will be able to witness how good the golf is firsthand as the Golf Channel’s Big Break returns with a full season of

episodes filmed at Horseshoe Bay Resort, featuring all four courses, three of which are open to resort guests. (Horseshoe Bay’s fourth championship course, Summit Rock, is members-only) These championship layouts have never been better and continue to improve.

“The thing I’m most excited about is showcasing the variety and quality of golf that we have,” said Anthony Holder, PGA director of golf operations at Horseshoe Bay Resort.

Holder added that Big Break X Good Good (sponsored by the popular golf influencer group, Good Good) really showcases the 7,000acre Texas Hill Country resort, which is situated around a beautiful lake and all its amenities.

“For a long time, I think we’ve been this sleepy little secret,” he

said. ”I think hosting this season of Big Break, called Big Break X Good Good, really puts us out there in a resonant way that brands Horseshoe Bay Resort as a national bucket list destination.”

The event will begin to air on Golf Channel in August, bridging the gap between the long-running reality show’s legacy viewer and Good Good Golf’s growing legion of YouTube golf fans.

Horseshoe Bay Resort being ready for its closeup coincides with the continuing upgrades of the resort itself, which most recently have included the popularity of a new dining yacht, on-water obstacle course, playground, and the new 10,000 sq ft Live Oak Pavilion near the Whitewater Putting Course, which sits adjacent to the 250-room tower hotel.

It’s also paramount that conditions across the three resort courses are consistent with each other. They all have bentgrass greens, zoysia collars, and 419 Bermuda on the fairways and tees. The goal is for all three courses to play the same in terms of conditions and green speeds, Holder said, which is made easier by having a director of agronomy who oversees individual course superintendents.

One of the biggest game changers recently has been the addition of the new Horseshoe Bay Resort Golf Academy, headed up by Director of Instruction Bobby Steiner. The stateof-the-art 3,000-square foot facility is equipped with indoor/outdoor lesson bays as well as eight covered practice bays equipped with Toptracer Range technology.

Horseshoe Bay officials knew it would help attract guests who wanted to improve their games through clinics and schools as well as enhance the member experience, but it proved to be far more valuable. They’ve been able to tie it into their men’s and women’s golf association functions as well as their nine-holers and introductory classes.

The impetus of Big Break X Good Good goes back to the Good Good Lone Star Shootout, an event Horseshoe Bay did with the influential social content creator collective last June. It was a 12-hole event that featured Good Good Golf Creators and celebrity athletes (like Reggie Bush and Matt Ryan), who formed two-man teams in a competition, exhibition, and even a concert.

Big Break will include a members from Good Good as well as 10 other male players. The winner of the competition will get a spot in the upcoming Good Good Championship on the PGA Tour to be conducted this November in nearby Austin.

And while Big Break is another milestone for Horseshoe Bay, you can expect the resort to keep on growing and evolving. There has been talk about possibly adding even more courses, like a tour-level championship layout and perhaps a shorter course for resort guests. So stay tuned.

To see everything that is new at Horseshoe Bay Resort, visit HSBResort.com

La Valle Coastal Club

A $50 MILLION TRANSFORMATION ELEVATES RANCHO SANTA FE

Rancho Santa Fe has long been one of Southern California’s premier golf destinations, and La Valle Coastal Club has reestablished itself among the region’s top private clubs following an impressive $50 million transformation.

Formerly known as Morgan Run Club & Resort, the property has been completely reimagined since Meriwether Companies acquired it three years ago. The extensive renovation includes upgraded guest accommodations at Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle, dining venues, spa, pools, racquet sports facilities and event spaces, but the centerpiece of the investment is the club’s 27-hole golf facility.

“Golf is the asset in any private resort that drives revenue,” said General Manager Fernando Fry. “We wanted to create a new practice

facility, driving range, short-game area and renovate the three nines.”

The improvements begin with one of San Diego County’s finest practice facilities. Golfers will find a 40-bay driving range, expansive target greens, dedicated short-game areas, a championship putting green and a lively social putting green that has become a popular gathering place before and after rounds.

The club’s three nine-hole layouts—Olivos, Cedros and Palmas— have each received significant upgrades, including rebuilt greens, renovated bunkers, improved irrigation and outstanding turf conditions. Paspalum fairways and kikuyu rough provide exceptional year-round playing surfaces, while thoughtful design enhancements have added both strategy and playability.

LA VALLE COASTAL CLUB GOLF GETAWAY PACKAGE

Escape to Rancho Santa Fe and experience one of Southern California’s premier private golf destinations. The Golf Getaway Package includes 10% off accommodations at Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle plus one round of golf per guest, per day on La Valle Coastal Club’s beautifully renovated 27-hole golf facility.

Whether you’re planning a weekend golf trip or a relaxing coastal escape, the package offers the perfect opportunity to experience the club’s championship-caliber golf, exceptional practice facilities and welcoming resort atmosphere.

For more information visit: www.LaValleCoastalClub.com and www.guesthousehotel.com

The transformation extends well beyond the golf course. Gather California Kitchen offers a fresh California-inspired menu in a relaxed setting, while the renovated clubhouse, resort amenities and welcoming atmosphere reflect the club’s vision of creating a modern private club experience that’s both upscale and approachable.

The investment is already paying dividends. Membership has grown significantly since the renovation began, and La Valle Coastal Club has quickly become one of North County San Diego’s most desirable private golf destinations. For golfers looking to experience one of Southern California’s most impressive club makeovers, La Valle delivers a memorable blend of championship golf, outstanding amenities and coastal hospitality.

Oceanside Twins Janae and Jasmine Leovao Inspire the Next Generation of California Golfers From Goat Hill Park to the NCAA Championships

Every great golf journey begins somewhere.

For Janae and Jasmine Leovao, that journey began on the fairways of Goat Hill Park in Oceanside, California.

Long before they helped lead Eastern Michigan University on a remarkable run to the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship semifinals, the twin sisters were simply two young girls learning the game at one of Southern California’s most beloved municipal golf courses.

What started as a love for golf would eventually carry them from Oceanside to Long Beach State University and ultimately to one of the biggest stages in collegiate golf.

GROWING

UP AT GOAT HILL

Goat Hill Park has long been known as one of California’s most unique golf experiences. With its welcoming atmosphere and strong community focus, the Oceanside course has introduced countless juniors to the game.

For Janae and Jasmine, Goat Hill became much more than a golf course. It became their classroom.

The sisters spent countless hours practicing, competing, and learning the game. They also worked as caddies, carrying bags and walking the fairways alongside some of golf’s biggest names.

One of the most influential experiences came through Goat Hill’s annual Wishbone Brawl, a one-of-a-kind event

that has featured major champions, celebrities, and world-class athletes.

As young caddies, Janae and Jasmine worked alongside players such as Xander Schauffele and Geoff Ogilvy. One year they even worked in the event’s hot dog stand, helping wherever they could.

Years later, they returned not as caddies or volunteers, but as competitors.

The twins earned spots in the Wishbone Brawl field, teeing it up against Schauffele, Ogilvy, Bill Murray, Kelly Slater and other notable participants. Playing in front of crowds approaching 1,000 spectators gave the sisters a level of competitive experience few junior golfers ever encounter.

Learning to perform under pressure in that environment helped prepare them for the biggest moments that would come later in their careers.

RISING THROUGH THE JUNIOR RANKS

As their skills improved, Janae and Jasmine established themselves as two of Southern California’s top junior golfers.

Their success earned them the opportunity to continue their careers at Long Beach State University, where they spent three seasons competing at the Division I level.

Representing the Beach allowed them to test their games against elite competition while continuing to grow as golfers and as young women. Throughout their time at Long Beach State, the twins gained valuable experience traveling, competing, and learning what it takes to succeed at the collegiate level.

After three seasons, they decided to take on a new challenge.

A NEW CHAPTER AT EASTERN MICHIGAN

Seeking a fresh opportunity and a chance to help build something special, Janae and Jasmine transferred together to Eastern Michigan University for their final collegiate season.

At the start of the year, Eastern Michigan was ranked No. 122 nationally.

Few outside the program could have predicted what would happen next.

Led in part by the experience, leadership, and competitive spirit of the Leovao sisters, the Eagles steadily climbed the rankings and finished the regular season ranked 17 nationally, the highest ranking in the school’s history. By the time the NCAA Championships arrived, Eastern Michigan ranked 27th nationally and of the 30 teams that punched their ticket to the championship, they were the 21st highest ranked team.

Simply qualifying for the NCAA Championship was a milestone for the program.

But the Eagles were not finished.

A Cinderella Run at the NCAA Championship

At the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship, Eastern Michigan became one of the stories of the tournament.

After four rounds of stroke play, the Eagles posted the low team round of the day and vaulted into fifth place, securing a spot in the match play quarterfinals against powerhouse Texas.

The quarterfinal matchup would showcase the competitive fire that had carried Janae and Jasmine from Goat Hill Park to the national stage.

Janae delivered one of the tournament’s biggest individual victories when she defeated Texas star Farah O’Keefe—the nation’s No. 1-ranked player and NCAA medalist—by an impressive 5-and-4 margin.

Meanwhile, Jasmine found herself locked in a tightly contested match that came down to the final hole.

With Eastern Michigan’s hopes hanging in the balance, Jasmine rolled in an 18-foot putt on the 18th green to secure her match and send the Eagles to the NCAA semifinals.

For a team that began the season ranked 264th in the country, it was one of the most remarkable runs in college golf.

For Janae and Jasmine, it was the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and belief.

A STORY BIGGER THAN GOLF

While tournament results and championship appearances tell part of the story, the journey of Janae and Jasmine Leovao is about much more than scores and trophies.

Their story highlights the opportunities that public golf can create. It shows what can happen

“The

whole Leovao family has been a fixture and part of the Goat Hill Park family since we took over in 2014. To watch the girls grow up has been a real treat and I still can’t tell them apart!!” – John Ashworth

when talent is supported by a community that believes in young players and provides them with opportunities to learn, grow, and compete.

From carrying bags at Goat Hill Park and working the Wishbone Brawl to competing against the nation’s best players at the NCAA Championship, the twins have become role models for the next generation of California golfers.

Every day, young golfers arrive at Goat Hill Park dreaming about what might be possible.

Thanks to Janae and Jasmine Leovao, they now have a blueprint.

Their journey proves that greatness can begin anywhere—even on a municipal golf course overlooking Oceanside.

And for the Leovao sisters, the journey is still far from over.

FASHION

SUMMER STYLE: LOOK GOOD. PLAY BETTER.

Summer golf is all about staying cool, comfortable, and confident from the first tee to the final putt. This season’s newest apparel, footwear, and accessories blend lightweight performance fabrics with modern styling, making it easier than ever to look as good as you play. Whether you’re walking 18 holes, enjoying a resort getaway, or relaxing after the round, these standout products deliver the perfect combination of comfort, function, and style. Here’s a look at some of our favorite fashion finds to help elevate your game—and your wardrobe—all summer long.

PUMA Golf – SHOWTIME Ignite Elevate 2

PUMA Golf’s limited-edition SHOWTIME Ignite Elevate 2 brings bold style and Tour-proven performance to the course. Part of the new SHOWTIME Pack, the eye-catching design features vibrant pink, purple, and yellow accents inspired by iconic moments across sports. Built on PUMA’s popular Ignite Elevate platform, the shoe delivers responsive cushioning, exceptional energy return, and all-day comfort with proprietary IGNITE foam. Designed for golfers who play with confidence and embrace self-expression, the SHOWTIME collection proves performance and personality can go hand in hand. www.pumagolf.com

Centerline Athletics – Airlite Polo

Stay cool and comfortable all summer with the new Airlite Polo from Centerline Athletics. Designed for golfers who demand performance in the heat, the Airlite features lightweight stretch fabric, precision ventilation, UV protection, moisture-wicking, cooling technology, and quick-dry performance to keep you comfortable from the first tee to the final putt. An Airlite mesh collar, invisible zip-front closure, and dropped hem provide a modern look with unrestricted movement for every swing. www.centerlineathletics.com

OluKai – ‘Ohana

The OluKai ‘Ohana is the perfect blend of island style, all-day comfort, and everyday versatility. Designed with water-resistant materials, quick-drying jersey knit lining, and a supportive anatomical footbed, it’s equally at home on the golf course, at the beach, or around town. A nonmarking rubber outsole delivers excellent traction on wet surfaces, while the lightweight construction keeps every step comfortable. Inspired by the Hawaiian spirit of family, the ‘Ohana is a sandal you’ll reach for every day. www.olukai.com

ACEGOLFS – More Than Basic Ruffle V-Neck Tank

Stay cool, comfortable, and stylish this summer with the More Than Basic Ruffle V-Neck Tank from ACEGOLFS. Crafted from lightweight EzeeCool™ fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection, the tank features moisture-wicking, quick-dry performance and four-way stretch for unrestricted movement on the course. The feminine ruffled neckline and flattering V-neck design transition effortlessly from golf to pickleball, tennis, or everyday wear, delivering performance and style in one versatile piece. www.acegolfs.com

Melin Links Collection with MagnaLink™ Ball Marker

Palm Golf Co. – Cart Cruisin’ Tee

Melin continues to raise the bar in premium golf headwear with its new Links Collection, featuring the innovative MagnaLink™ Magnetic Ball Marker. Hidden beneath the visor, the magnetic ball marker stays securely in place yet is instantly accessible when needed. Combined with waterand sweat-resistant materials, four-way stretch, breathable micro-perforated panels, and an integrated tee holder, the Links Collection delivers premium performance with thoughtful on-course functionality. www.melin.com

Inspired by two things they love the most, the ocean and the game, the Cart Cruisin’ Tee from Palm Golf Co. delivers casual style that’s equally at home, on the golf course, the ocean, or a relaxing day around the town. Made from a premium brushed fabric blend, the midweight tee offers an incredibly soft feel with all-day comfort and a modern unisex fit. Whether you’re teeing it up at your favorite muni or enjoying a weekend getaway, this versatile shirt combines effortless style with everyday comfort. www.palmgolfco.com

SUMMER GEAR: PERFORMANCE MEETS INNOVATION

Every season brings new technology, but this year’s lineup raises the bar with equipment designed to help golfers play their best while looking the part. From precision-milled putters and a versatile mini driver to a premium stand bag built for ultimate performance, these standout products blend cutting-edge innovation with exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re searching for more consistency on the greens, greater confidence off the tee, or premium functionality on every round, these are some of our favorite new releases for the summer season.

Tour Edge Exotics Mini Driver Tour Edge has expanded its Exotics lineup with the new Exotics Mini Driver, offering golfers a versatile option that bridges the gap between a driver and fairway wood. Designed for players seeking more control off the tee without sacrificing distance, the Mini Driver features advanced face technology, exceptional forgiveness, and a compact, confidenceinspiring profile. Whether used as a fairway finder or an alternative to a traditional driver, the Exotics Mini Driver delivers the ball speed, accuracy, and playability golfers expect from Tour Edge. www.touredge.com

Vessel Player V Pro Stand Bag

Engineered for golfers who demand premium performance and exceptional craftsmanship, the Vessel Player V Pro delivers luxury without compromise. Featuring redesigned 7- and 14-way tops for superior club organization, dedicated putter storage, and patented technologies like the Equilibrium Double Strap and Rotator Base, the bag offers outstanding balance and stability while walking the course. A convenient cart strap pass-through also protects the bag when riding. Thoughtfully designed from top to bottom, the Player V Pro is built to perform at the highest level while looking every bit as impressive. www.vesselgolf.com

Odyssey Damascus Milled Putters

Odyssey has elevated premium putter design with its new Damascus Milled Putters, combining exceptional craftsmanship with precision performance. Each putter features a stunning Damascus steel face, prized for its distinctive layered pattern and remarkably soft, responsive feel at impact. Precision milled for outstanding consistency, the collection delivers the performance serious golfers expect while offering a truly unique look that stands out on the greens. For players seeking tour-level feel, premium materials, and timeless style, the Damascus Milled series is a standout addition to any bag.

www.odysseygolf.com

Bettinardi Hexperimental Antidote #7 & #9

Bettinardi’s new Hexperimental Antidote #7 and #9 combine the consistency of zero-torque technology with the look and feel of a traditional putter. Featuring Simply Balanced™ technology, the shaft aligns with the putter’s center of gravity to help keep the face square through impact for greater stability and accuracy. Precision milled from 303 stainless steel, both models feature Bettinardi’s soft-feeling F.I.T. Face™ milling and a durable Black Armor finish with distressed blue accents. It’s a premium option for golfers seeking modern performance without sacrificing classic styling. www.bettinardi.com

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CHIPPING LIKE A CHAMPION: WHAT EVERY GOLFER CAN LEARN FROM NELLY KORDA

Nelly Korda’s chip shot on #17 at Riveira CC during the final round of the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open

By ERIC WOODS

Photos By USGA/LOGAN WHITTON

When watching the world’s best players, it’s often the short game—not the long drives—that separates great golfers from everyone else. The photo of 2026 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Nelly Korda provide a perfect example of fundamentally sound chipping technique and offer valuable lessons for golfers of every skill level.

One of the first things you’ll notice is how much of Korda’s weight remains on her lead (left) side throughout the motion. This forward pressure allows the club to strike the ball before the turf, producing the crisp contact that every golfer is trying to achieve.

Just as important is the position of her hands. Notice that the clubhead never passes her hands through impact. Her left arm and the shaft work together as one unit, maintaining a square clubface through the hitting area. There is no flipping or scooping of the club to help the ball into the air.

This is one of the biggest mistakes amateur golfers make.

Many players try to generate power with their hands and wrists. As the hands become overly active, they flip the clubface closed through impact, causing inconsistent contact, heavy shots, thin shots, or chips that come off the face with little control.

Instead, Korda demonstrates what every golfer should strive for: quiet hands and active shoulders.

The motion is powered by the rotation of the shoulders while the arms and club move together as a connected unit. Because the hands remain passive, the loft of the club does the work, producing predictable trajectory, consistent distance control, and solid contact.

Another key takeaway is balance. From start to finish, Korda remains centered and stable. There is very little unnecessary body movement, allowing the club to return to the ball on the same path every time.

The next time you practice your chipping, focus on these simple fundamentals:

 Keep your weight favoring your lead foot.

 Let your shoulders control the motion.

 Keep your hands soft and passive.

 Maintain a square clubface through impact.

 Allow your lead arm and the club to move together as one unit.

You don’t need extraordinary touch to become a better chipper—you need sound fundamentals. As Nelly Korda demonstrates, great technique creates consistency, and consistency is what saves strokes around the green.

ERIC WOODS

Golf Lab Academy Founder

2 Time Canadian Tour Leading Money Winner

Canadian Tour Low Stroke Average Winner

South American Leading Money Winner

Tour Member:

Asian Tour, Australian Tour, Canadian Tour, South African Tour, South American Tour www.golflabacademy.com

THE BEST INVESTMENT IN YOUR GOLF GAME ISN’T A NEW DRIVER

Personalized coaching from former touring professionals with more than 60 years of combined teaching experience.

Why Golfers Choose Golf Lab Academy IT’S BETTER INSTRUCTION.

Every golfer has a different body, different athletic ability and different goals. That’s why we don’t believe in teaching one golf swing. WE BELIEVE IN TEACHING YOUR GOLF SWING.

Whether you’re looking to break 100, win your club championship or simply enjoy the game more, every lesson is built around sound fundamentals, modern technology and a personalized improvement plan designed specifically for you.

EXPERIENCE

FORMER TOURING PROFESSIONALS

Combined playing experience on professional tours around the world provides insights that only years of competition can teach

RESULTS

TRUSTED BY GOLFERS

Hundreds of golfers have improved their games through our personalized coaching, earning Golf Lab Academy a reputation as one of Orange County’s premier instruction facilities.

TECHNOLOGY

ADVANCED INDOOR TEACHING STUDIO

Professional video analysis, launch monitor technology and a controlled learning environment allow you to improve faster than practicing alone.

TUCSON’S BEST TUCSON’S BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE PUBLIC

Set in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Arizona National Golf Club combines a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, breathtaking views, and championship-caliber golf. Voted Tucson’s Best Public Course, it’s a must-play destination for golfers seeking an unforgettable Arizona experience.

Book your tee time and discover Arizona National Golf Club.

technology, professional instruction and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that keeps golfers coming back. Whether you’re looking for a competitive round or a relaxing day on the course, Native Oaks delivers a memorable golf experience just minutes from San Diego.

After your round, be sure to stop by Shawii Kitchen, the club’s popular restaurant that has become a favorite gathering place for golfers and locals alike. Named after the traditional Kumeyaay word for a sacred acorn dish, Shawii Kitchen offers a diverse menu featuring fresh breakfast, lunch and dinner options, from hearty burgers and sandwiches to flavorful seasonal specialties. The combination of outstanding golf, genuine hospitality and great dining makes Native Oaks Golf Club one of Southern California’s hidden gems. Native Oaks Golf Club 14616 Woods Valley Road Valley Center, CA 92082 www.NativeOaksGolfClub.com.

DESERT GOLF AT ITS FINEST

ship programs that build confidence, independence, friendships, and life skills—all at no cost to athletes or their families. More than 90 percent of every dollar raised goes directly toward these life-changing programs, making your participation an investment that has a lasting impact throughout the community.

Whether you’re gathering friends for a foursome, entertaining clients, or simply looking for a meaningful day on the golf course, the Orange County Golf Classic is an opportuni ty to make a difference while enjoy ing one of Orange County’s premier private clubs.

To register, become a sponsor, or learn more, visit: www.sosc.org/OCgolfclassic

Discover 45 holes of championship golf set against the breathtaking Catalina Mountains. With three unique layouts, pristine course conditions, and unforgettable Sonoran Desert scenery, El Conquistador Golf delivers an Arizona golf experience you'll want to play again and again.

Book your tee time and experience one of Tucson's premier golf destinations.

TEQUILA KOMOS REPOSADO ROSA:

REDEFINING THE ULTRA-LUXURY TEQUILA CATEGORY

Tequila Komos has redefined the ultra-luxury tequila category by combining traditional tequila-making with techniques borrowed from the world of fine wine. At the heart of that innovation is Reposado Rosa, the world’s first ultra-luxury rosa tequila, an expression that continues to challenge expectations while celebrating the character of agave.

Created by former Master Sommelier and winemaker Richard Betts, Tequila Komos was founded on the belief that tequila deserves the same level of craftsmanship as the world’s finest wines. The portfolio has been recognized by The Tasting Panel as the highest-rated tequila collection in the publication’s history, including its first-ever 100-point tequila. Every expression begins with 100% mature Blue Weber agave, roasted in traditional stone ovens, crushed using both tahona stone and roller mill, fermented with native yeast, and distilled in copper pot stills to preserve the agave’s natural character.

Reposado Rosa reflects that philosophy. Rested for 65 days in French oak barrels that previously held red wine, the tequila develops its blush hue from the grape skins. The barrels contribute elegant notes of ripe berries, cocoa, and citrus while allowing roasted agave to remain the defining characteristic.

“It looks like a great Provence rosé, but it’s redolent of ripe roasted agave,” says Richard Betts, describing the expression that introduced an entirely new style of luxury tequila.

Innovation at Komos extends beyond the bottle. Through the Komos Foundation, the brand invests in the communities where its tequila is made. In 2025, the Foundation completed a classroom in Amatitán using adobe bricks made from repurposed agave fiber, demonstrating how production byproducts can create lasting community impact. As Richard Betts likes to say, “Do good while you’re trying to do well.”

That same attention to detail is reflected in Komos’ exclusive bottle embossing program. Each handcrafted ceramic bottle can be customized with the logo of a private club, golf course, or special event, creating a keepsake for members and collectors alike.

“Tequila Komos is perfectly at home on a golf course. It’s one of our favorite places to be,” says Ria Soler, Global Advocacy Director for Tequila Komos. “Golf brings people together to celebrate achievement, friendship, and memorable moments. Those are the same occasions that great tequila was made for, and creating bottles exclusively for a club makes those experiences even more meaningful.”

Reposado Rosa demonstrates that luxury can be innovative, purposeful, and rooted in tradition while leaving a positive impact beyond the glass.