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Thecareer of Holly Kennedy is one of purpose, perseverance, and an unrelenting passion for growing the game of golf in important ways. As the 2025 Southern California PGA Golf Professional of the Year, Kennedy embodies the qualities of leadership, service, and inclusiveness that represent the very best of the PGA profession.
Growing up, Holly Kennedy knew that golf was not simply a game, but a lifelong experience and vehicle for connection. This understanding has been the driving force behind her career of teaching, mentoring, and fostering an environment of inclusiveness for golfers of all kinds. As a PGA Professional, Kennedy has devoted her life to the development of golfers of all skill levels, from the beginner looking to establish confidence to the veteran golfer looking to refine their craft within the context of an approach that emphasizes the fundamentals, encouragement, and enjoyment of the game.
“We have so many incredible, talented, experienced golf professionals in the Southern California Section. To be considered worthy of this award by my peers whom I respect so much - and to be the 4th woman to receive it! - was truly the greatest honor of my career thus far.” – Holly Kennedy, PGA
A significant part of the professional career of Holly Kennedy has been her role at the Emerald Isle Golf Course, an experience that has been both transformative and lasting. As an owner/ operator of the facility, Kennedy has been instrumental in the growth of the course, ensuring that the spirit of inclusiveness and community-focused approach has endured. It has been her hands-on approach to the operation of the facility that has made the Emerald Isle Golf Course one of the preeminent
facilities of its kind, an environment where golf thrives at all levels and where the young, women, and new golfers of all kinds feel genuinely welcome.
While Kennedy’s accomplishments are impressive, her dedication to women’s golf is also noteworthy. She has played an active role in the development of opportunities for women to participate in the sport, whether it is on the course or behind the scenes, and has become a mentor and role model to the next generation of PGA Professionals.
While Kennedy’s accomplishments are impressive, her dedication to women’s golf is also noteworthy. She has played an active role in the development of opportunities for women to participate in the sport, whether it is on the course or behind the scenes, and has become a mentor and role model to the next generation of PGA Professionals.
Kennedy’s contributions to the sport go well beyond the facility at which she worked. She has continually used the sport of golf to teach life skills and strengthen the communities in which she worked.
Being awarded the Southern California PGA Golf Professional of the Year is a testament to Kennedy’s life and career, which have been marked by integrity and influence. Holly Kennedy’s life and career are a testament to the idea that the true measure of success in the sport of golf is the contributions made to the sport and the individuals who share her passion.
“This legislation prevents exploitation of reservation systems and protects access for local residents who fund these public facilities,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) as he introduced the “Blocking Illegitimate Reservations and Protecting Equitable Access to California’s Publicly Owned Golf Courses Act.” Numbered AB 1954, the “Act” gives the state’s municipal golf courses a tool they don’t now have and only the state can provide to manage their parkland golf properties for the maximal benefit of the communities they are intended to serve.
There are over 220 golf courses in California that are municipally owned by cities, counties, charter cities, and the state. As part of publicly owned park systems, these courses operate per business models that eschew maximal revenue generation in favor of making them uni-
versally available to local residents, seniors, juniors, school athletes, local clubs and civic organizations. Because California’s urban areas are among the most golf-starved in the nation, this model creates a demand for tee times second to none. It also creates opportunities for 3rd party tee time brokers to capture and resell tee times at inflated prices and in the process substantially reduce the already strained supply of recreational opportunities available to California residents.
When the prevalence of 3rd party brokering became a front page story in Los Angeles and other California urban areas in 2024, municipalities adopted various forms of reservation protocols at the expense of the public that mitigated the problem but in the end were not capable of solving it. That is where AB 1954 would come in.
To be 100% clear; It’s important to emphasize that this bill does NOT
in any way affect agreements that are freely entered into for ostensible mutual benefit. It ONLY affects brokering without the consent of the public agency that owns the golf course or the management group that the public agency has put under contract to operate its golf course. There are many well-known and popular vendors in that space. They operate by written agreements that bring benefit to both municipality and vendor, not to mention golfers, and would NOT be affected by AB 1954.
“The preservation of affordable, accessible public golf is always at risk, but it is a California value –consistent with California’s ‘better angels’ of an open, opportunity-forall society,” said California Alliance for Golf Executive Director Craig Kessler. “AB 1954 is not just fully consistent with those values; its passage would be a facilitator of them.”
This Earth Day, the fairways of one of Southern California’s most breathtaking coastal courses will serve a purpose far greater than par. On April 22, 2026, philanthropist Oracle Maureen and Angels Among Us Foundation will host ‘18 For The Rhinos’ Charity Golf Tournament at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, California. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific coastline, the tournament shines a spotlight on a crisis unfolding thousands of miles away. Rhino populations across Africa continue to face devastating threats from poaching and habitat loss, and the funds raised that day will go directly to charity partner Over & Above Africa’s frontline efforts to turn the tide. Tournament proceeds support population monitoring, humane dehorning programs designed to deter poachers, educational outreach to local communities, and rehabilitation care for orphaned rhinos whose mothers have been lost to the illegal wildlife trade.
Monarch Beach Golf Links is no ordinary backdrop for a charity event. The Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course delivers breathtaking ocean views, challenging coastal terrain, and world-class amenities that rival any championship venue in the region. Guests will find the full experience thoughtfully curated from start to finish — registration and hospitality open at 11:30 AM, with a 1:00 PM shotgun
start sending players out across one of California’s premier courses. Throughout the day, all inclusive premium food and beverage service keeps the energy high, while on-course contests offer professional-level prizes for those moments of brilliance on the fairway. The day culminates with a celebratory awards dinner overlooking the Pacific at 5:00 PM.
Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a passionate weekend player, this is a rare opportunity to experience a course of this caliber while contributing to something that matters well beyond the 18th hole.
For those looking to make the most of the experience, the tournament’s official hotel partner Le Petit Pali makes a compelling case for extending the trip. Perched along the bluffs of South Laguna Beach just moments from the course, this stunning luxury boutique hotel is an ideal home base for arriving the night before, waking up unhurried, and settling into tournament day with ease. Post golf, there’s little reason to rush home. Guests can sink into the laid-back elegance of Le Petit Pali — shoes off, glass raised, the sound of the ocean doing the rest.
As the official hotel partner, Le Petit Pali is extending exclusive benefits to tournament participants and their guests, including exclusive savings on accommodations, an elevated continental breakfast with unlimited champagne, and complimentary parking. It’s the kind of add-on that quietly transforms a great day of golf into a full Earth Day experience worth remembering.
To book and receive these exclusive benefits, guests should mention ‘18 For The Rhinos’ at time of reservation.
Early-bird registration is open now at AAUF.org/Golf, with sponsorship opportunities available for businesses and individuals seeking to amplify their conservation impact. Angels Among Us Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to protecting vulnerable species and supporting humanitarian causes worldwide, ensures tournament proceeds flow directly to frontline conservation efforts where they are needed most.
For registration, hotel and sponsorship information, visit AAUF.org/Golf
By DAVID WEISS
I f American golf destinations were dinner guests, Scottsdale would be the guy who shows up in a pressed linen shirt, a tan that seems medically impossible, and a grin that says he knows exactly where the night is headed. He’s confident, a little flashy, but never tries too hard. And he always—always—picks up the check. I like this guy already! That’s the thing about Scottsdale: it’s fun without apology. The golf is big, the landscapes are bigger, and the number of courses per square mile suggests the city council is paid in Pro V1s. But beneath the easy swagger is something more interest ing: a surprisingly thoughtful golf culture that blends architectural ambition, meticulous condition ing and a range of price points that won’t make you have to call your accountant from the first tee. Golf is hard enough without needing to bring a calculator and a bitcoin wal let.
This is desert golf with depth. And if you’re planning a trip, con sider this your unofficial, unfiltered, and occasionally cheeky guide to the courses that define the Valley’s appeal.
We‑Ko‑Pa Golf Club: The Desert, Unfiltered
If Scottsdale golf has a spiritual center, it’s We‑Ko‑Pa. Not because it’s the oldest or the flashiest, but because it’s the purest expression of what desert golf should be: wide horizons, zero houses, and fairways that look like they were laid down by a benevolent deity with a laser level.
We‑Ko‑Pa’s two courses—Cholla and Saguaro—are the rare siblings who both grew up to be successful. Cholla is the older, more dramatic one, full of elevated tees and sweeping views that make you forget you’re sup posed to be concentrating. Saguaro, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is the minimalist younger brother: walkable, strategic, and so naturally routed you half expect to see
hoofprints from the architects’ horses. Good thing backhoes and tractors don’t eat oats — they’d go bankrupt just grading the place.
Architectural interest? Off the charts. Conditions? Consistently among the best in the state. Affordability? Surprisingly reason able for a facility that could eas ily charge more and still fill every tee time. And the landscape — raw Sonoran desert, untouched by real estate developers—is the kind of scenery that makes you wonder why you ever agreed to live anywhere with humidity. If you play only one round in Scottsdale, make it Saguaro. If you play two, add Cholla. If you play three, congratulations — you’re living large and aware that golf comes first in life — who cares about death and taxes?
TPC Scottsdale: The Stadium, the Spectacle, the Show TPC Scottsdale is the opposite of We‑Ko‑Pa in almost every way, and that’s precisely why it belongs
on your itinerary. This is the home of the WM Phoenix Open, the most raucous, unapologetically un‑golf golf tournament on the planet. The Stadium Course is famous for its amphitheater‑style 16th hole, where fans cheer, boo, and occasionally behave like they’re at a college foot ball game. Long live alcohol, the great disinhibitor. Without cold beer on tap, this tourney would be more like a Sunday service than golf’s answer to Woodstock. But here’s the thing: strip away the circus hoopla, and the Stadium Course is a legiti mately fun layout. The fairways are generous, the greens are interesting without being sadistic, and the fin ishing stretch—15 through 18—is one of the best risk‑reward sequences in the Southwest. It’s the rare course where you can shoot a number or shoot your ego, depending on how aggressively you swing.
Affordability? Let’s be honest: you’re paying for the experience. But the conditioning is excellent year‑round, and the bragging rights alone are worth a small surcharge. If you want a slightly more afford able option, the Champions Course next door is a strong, underrated alternative—less famous, more for giving, and still very Scottsdale. TPC is where you go to feel like a Tour pro for a day. Or at least to pretend you could handle the 16th hole crowd without chunking a wedge into the hospitality tents. But hell, getting booed here is a badge of honor to be worn proudly.
Grayhawk is the rare place that manages to be both trendy and timeless. It’s where Scottsdale’s golf culture feels most fully realized: polished but not pretentious, lively but not chaotic, and always ready with a good cocktail or two after the round. I have mine with an order of the chicken and hatch chile enchila das at Phil’s Grill. Legit grub makes one forget about shanked chips and missed 3 footers, at least temporar ily. The club’s two courses—Raptor and Talon—offer distinct personali ties. Raptor, a Tom Fazio design, is the more muscular of the two, with bold bunkering, sweeping fairways, and greens that reward confident iron play. Talon, co‑designed by
David Graham and Gary Panks, is more intricate, weaving through des ert washes and natural hazards with a kind of quiet sophistication and an eerie quiet.
Both courses are impeccably maintained, and both offer enough architectural nuance to keep serious golfers engaged. But Grayhawk’s real magic is the vibe: the practice facility is excellent (with dad rock piped in at a modest volume), the clubhouse is lively without being loud, and the entire place feels like the kind of golf club you’d join if you suddenly came into a modest fortune. Affordability? Mid‑to‑high, depending on the sea son. But the value is strong, espe cially given the conditioning and the overall experience. And if you’re the type who appreciates a good post‑round scene, Grayhawk is your kind of place.
Troon North: The Desert Classic That Still Has Its Fastball
Troon North is the course your buddy played 15 years ago and still talks about like it was a religious awakening. And to be fair, the place has earned its reputation. The Monument and Pinnacle courses remain two of the most visually strik ing desert layouts in the country,
with massive boulders, dramatic elevation changes, and fairways that look like they were carved with sur gical precision.
The Monument Course, originally designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, is the more theatrical of the two—big carries, big views, big everything. Pinnacle is slightly more restrained, but no less compelling, with a routing that feels more inti mate and strategic. Architecturally, Troon North is classic desert golf: forced carries, target‑style landing areas, and greens that demand both touch and nerve. But the condition ing is consistently excellent, and the scenery—towering saguaros, granite outcroppings, and sunsets that look Photoshopped—is worth the price of admission. As for cost, It’s on the higher end, but the experience matches the cost. If you want the quintessential Scottsdale postcard round, Troon North delivers and then some.
Papago Golf Club: The People’s Champion
Not every great Scottsdale round requires a premium price tag. Papago, a municipal course with a pedigree, proves that affordability and quality can coexist without com
promise. Originally designed by Billy Bell and later renovated by the team behind Arizona State University’s golf program, Papago is a spacious, classic layout with wide fairways, subtle greens, and a landscape that feels more parkland‑meets‑desert than pure target golf. It’s also one of the best‑conditioned muni’s in the country, thanks in part to its role as the home course for ASU’s golf teams. The practice facilities are top‑tier, the routing is walkable and the overall vibe is refreshingly unpretentious.
Architecturally, Papago is less dramatic than Troon North or We‑Ko‑Pa, but that’s part of its charm. It’s honest golf—no gimmicks, no forced carries designed to ruin your day, no real estate developments lurking behind the greens. Just a solid, thoughtfully designed course that rewards good shots and forgives the occasional misfire. Value? Off the charts. If you want a break from resort pricing without sacrificing quality, Papago is your guy.
Easier on the Budget, Still Great Golf
If you want a break from Scottsdale’s higher end headliners, start with Desert Canyon in Fountain
Hills—elevated tee shots, hon est routing, and peak‑season rates that won’t make you wince. Eagle Mountain sits just up the road and delivers a more polished version of the same appeal, with strong greens and a routing that feels adventurous without drifting into gimmicks. And then there’s Talking Stick’s O’odham Course, a Coore & Crenshaw mini malist outlier in a market obsessed with sculpted desert drama. Wide corridors, subtle contours, and strat egy over spectacle. Together, they’re the Valley’s quiet counterargument to the resort‑golf narrative: afford able, architecturally interesting, and rooted in the actual landscape rather than the marketing around it.
And finally, a nod to one of the best layouts in the vicinity: Ak Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club in near by Maricopa. The championship, Australian Sand Belt style layout on 320 pristine desert acres is consis tently rated in the top 100 resort and casino courses in the country and has a world class practice facility. Seriously good golf, good enough to host PGA qualifying and top colle giate tourneys. There’s also a 6 hole “Mini Dunes” lighted short course for added practice and bet-settling.
If you’re planning a golf trip with the posse, Scottsdale is the rare des tination that satisfies every person ality in the group. The architecture nerd gets his Coore & Crenshaw fix. The bucket‑list chaser gets his TPC moment. The value‑seeker gets Papago and the scenery lover gets Troon North. And the guy who just
wants a cold beer and a well‑condi tioned fairway gets — well, every thing. Scottsdale isn’t just a golf town. It’s a golf mecca. Confident, sun‑soaked, a little mischievous, and always ready for another challenging round. Last word of warning: leave that errant drive to the rattlers and scorpions. They love a good hacker for lunch....
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
18 Holes at the Scenic Monarch Beach Golf Links
All-Inclusive Dining & Premium Cocktails From Start to Finish
Choice of Scramble or Best Ball Tournament
On-Course Contests with Pro-Level Prizes & Bragging Rights
Post-Round Party with Dinner & Open Bar
Exclusive Savings on Boutique Accommodations at Le Petit Pali in Laguna Beach
By ED TRAVIS
Each year as the golf season approaches, California Golf staffers research what is new on the market for players of all skill levels and here are some of the latest products that caught our attention and we think are worth your attention too.
Cobra tells me their latest, the OPTM driver series makes use of a new measurement called POI which measures twisting at impact along the diagonal axis of the face. In conjunction with the usual MOI, POI was used to design the clubhead retaining the forgiveness we all want while significantly reducing dispersion by up to 23%. Four OPTM versions for various skill levels are each priced at $599.
Bushnell’s rangefinders are the most used on the PGA Tour and at $399.99 the new Tour V7 Shift has many must-have features. The Dual-Color OLED Display with Slope First Technology shows the slope adjusted distance instantly for positive club selection and there’s a slope on/off switch to make it tournament legal. Golfers will like the 500+ yard range and magnetic cart mount.
Bettinardi Golf has added the Antidote putter SB (Simply Balanced) to their zero-torque line. The fang-style mallet priced at $450 has a milled face with negative offset and 3° of loft. The hosel connects to the shaft over the center of gravity of the head and combined with the head weight distribution tends to keep the face square to the putting arc from start to finish.
Srixon’s successful ZXi irons for better players now have been joined by two new models the ZXiR and ZXiR HL for players needing game-improvement and super game-improvement sticks respectively. Priced at $1,099.99 for 7-piece set with steel shafts and $1,199.99 for graphite, they use Srixon’s new i-Alloy in the clubheads and their V.T. Sole design for consistent turf interaction.
PGA Show attendees were wowed by this personal launch monitor for its simplicity, ease of use and certainly by the price at $199.99, thousands less than is typical. It sets up quickly either indoors or outdoors and the 3.5” color display is visible even in strong sunlight. Using Doppler radar six data points are recorded for each swing and oh yes, another huge plus, Shot Scope does not charge a subscription fee.
Vessel has done it again with a Tour-grade synthetic leather carry bag receiving rave reviews. There’s a choice of a 6-way top (6.6 lbs.) with 3 full-length dividers or a 14-way (6.95 lbs.) with 14 dividers and the special strap attachment design prevents clubs falling out and better carry balance. Vessel is known for their attention to detail such as the Player V Stand Bag ($439) has a cart strap pass through and nine pockets.
Tour Edge, a company known for golfer-friendly priced lines of clubs and more recently for the premium category Exotics woods and irons, has leapt into the hyper-competitive golf ball market with the highperformance Exotics golf ball at $39.99 dozen. This three-piece premium category ball has a 318-dimple urethane cover and an ionomer mantle, a combination giving distance off the driver and scoring shot control.
By ED TRAVIS
Winterdoesn’t last forever and with spring just around the corner here are a few fashion forward items for on and off the golf course. We know you’ll look good.
The G.112 golf shoe comes in a wide variety of styles and colors for men or women priced at $225. All are water repellant with a seamless upper and a exquisitely comfortable midsole. G/Fore put their extensive knowledge into the spikeless design putting a priority on traction for the entire length of the sole and stability in any terrain enhanced by the low-drop silhouette.
Price at $108 for the pants and $88 for the shorts the 101 Premier collection has something for every man who wants to look great on and off the course. Each is made from Puma’s LUXKNIT fabric that’s 5-% recycled materials. They are 4-way stretch for easy wearing with a stretch waistband and silicone shirt gripper. Breathable naturally with nice-to-have features like a shank button closure and coin pocket.
Golf Calculus Baggy Pants and Shorts
The freshest new look this spring comes from Students Golf in their Calculus Baggy Pants ($138) and Shorts ($108). Reminiscent of the early 90s look worn by Tiger Woods and David Duval, the Calculus fabric is a comfortable stretch of 70% polyester, 27% wool and 3% Spandex with a half fixed, half elastic waistband. The four-pocket design has pleats in front and even a carabiner clip on waistband.
Antas by Dormie Workshop. Italian leathers. American craftsmanship. Timeless design for life on and off the course. Defined by clean lines and considered texture, the Antas collection brings together hand-selected Italian basketweave, suede, pebble grain, and exotics—each crafted in the USA with reinforced stitching and handburnished edges for structure and longevity.
Sure, spring weather sometimes means a sweater and this quarter zip from Straight Down is just the one you need. Select from seven colors all manufactured with a waffle-knit micro-polyester fabric that checks all the boxes. It’s breathable with ribbed cuffs, lined collar and a drawcord hem. The Optic Quarter Zip ($125) also is a great layering piece should a jacket also be required.
Set along the active rim of Kīlauea at 4,000 feet above sea level, Volcano Golf Course offers one of the most extraordinary golf experiences in the world. Blending cool mountain air with dramatic volcanic scenery, this historic course delivers a round unlike anything found at a typical seaside resort.
Carved directly along the edge of the Kīlauea crater, the course features sweeping panoramic views of both Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. The setting alone makes it a true bucketlist destination. Surrounded by lush rainforest, striking lava rock formations, and native ‘ōhi‘a trees, golfers
are immersed in the natural beauty and geological power that define Hawai‘i Island. It’s not uncommon to spot the nēnē, Hawai‘i’s state bird, or experience shifting mist rolling across the fairways, adding to the dramatic atmosphere.
Originally established more than a century ago, Volcano Golf Course proudly holds the distinction of being Hawai‘i Island’s oldest golf course. Generations of locals and visitors have walked these fairways, creating a legacy deeply rooted in the island’s history. In 2022, the course reopened under Troon Golf’s management team, ensuring thoughtful stewardship
while preserving its authentic charm. Today, the course balances its historic character with improved conditions and a welcoming experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Conveniently located near Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Volcano Golf Course is perfectly positioned for visitors looking to combine outdoor adventure with a memorable round of golf. After exploring lava tubes, hiking scenic crater trails, or visiting nearby attractions, a round at Volcano offers both relaxation and awe-inspiring views. Several locally owned restaurants and shops are also just minutes away, making it easy to turn a golf outing into a full day experience.
The facility includes an open driving range and hosts tournaments, group outings, and special events throughout the year.
For those seeking a round that combines history, nature, and truly unique scenery, Volcano Golf Course stands as one of Hawai‘i’s most distinctive places to play.
For more information visit www.volcanogc.com
• Free Callaway Rental Set
18 Holes of Bucket List Golf
• Cart Included
• 2 sleeves of Callaway Golf Balls
• Rates: Mon-Thur $100, Fri-Sun $125
Oceanside, CA
Goat Hill Park in Oceanside, California, is a beloved public golf course with a rich and resilient history. Originally built in 1952 as Center City Golf Course, it was San Diego County’s first golf course— a regulation-length 9-hole, par-36 layout. In the early 1990s, Ludwig Keehn redesigned it into an 18-hole short course, and it soon became affectionately known as “Goat Hill” to locals. With sweeping ocean views, cool coastal breezes, and a raw, authentic golf atmosphere, it is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and unique short courses in the country.
In the 1980s, the Lacey family ensured the land would remain protected as public space, preventing development without a public vote. After Keehn’s passing in 2004, the course faced mismanagement and redevelopment threats. But in 2014, the Oceanside community rallied at a historic Town Hall meeting to preserve “the people’s park.” Since then, under the leadership of local resident and golf industry veteran John Ashworth, Goat Hill has flourished. Today, it serves as a welcoming community hub—home to the North County Junior Golf Association and Caddie Academy—offering affordable golf, youth programs, a free kids’ course, and an inclusive, “World Class / Working Class” spirit for all.
GOAT HILL PARK
2323 Goat Hill Drive
Oceanside, CA 92054
(760) 433-8590
goathillpark.com
Trilogy Golf Club at La Quinta’s newly reimagined restaurant, Kitchen Ten Eleven, has been named the 2026 Golden Fork Award recipient for Best Remodeled Food & Beverage Facility in the Public/Resort category.
The global competition honors the top new and renovated dining facilities at golf clubs worldwide, judging projects on vision, design excellence, menu creativity, and their overall impact on the member and guest experience.
Opened in May 2025, Kitchen Ten Eleven marks the culmination of a multi-year restoration of Trilogy Golf Club and its amenities. Once home to the Skins Game from 2003–06, the property faced years of ownership changes and eventual closure in 2022. Homeowners ultimately united to reclaim the club, partnering with BlueStar Resort & Golf to revitalize the property.
A full-service hospitality management company known for its food and beverage expertise, BlueStar now celebrates its third Golden Fork Award, joining previous winner’s V’s Taproom (Peoria, AZ) and Stone & Barrel (Sun Lakes, AZ).
Named in tribute to the homeowner vote that secured the club’s future, Kitchen Ten Eleven operates under the philosophy “Dining for All.” The menu ranges from burgers, craft beer, and house-made pizzas to elevated chef-driven dishes, cocktails, and rotating specials. Today, the onceshuttered space thrives as a vibrant gathering place for residents, golfers, and the local community alike.
60-151 Trilogy Pkwy
La Quinta, CA 92253
(760) 303-0491
mytrilogylife.com/laquinta/dining
Nestled in the heart of sunny Carmel Valley, the Bernardus Lodge & Spa is a 28-acre oasis offering unparalleled luxury, romance and rustic elegance against the backdrop of the Santa Lucia Mountains. With just 73 opulent guestrooms, suites and villas, this premier boutique resort provides an intimate retreat featuring fireplaces, two-person soaking tubs and private terraces.
Guests can immerse themselves in wine country living, starting with morning yoga or strolling through lush gardens and vineyards. The experience is defined by impeccable service, from relaxing treatments at the full-service spa—including a warming pool and steam room— to championship-level tennis and croquet courts. Also, guests can avail themselves of a round at TPC Monterey at Pasadera, a nice perk.
Culinary excellence is central to the Bernardus experience, where guests can enjoy world-class California cuisine and local wines by the fire at Lucia. Bernardus balances a serene atmosphere with charming luxury, making it a premier, pet-friendly destination. Whether it’s a “wine by the fire” evening, a dip in the junior Olympic-sized pool, or exploring nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea just 15 minutes away, this resort offers a perfect, rejuvenating escape.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
415 W Carmel Valley Rd Carmel Valley, CA 93924 (831) 298-5389
bernarduslodge.com
Positioned on the eastern shore of Hawai‘i’s Garden Isle and right next to Līhuʻe Airport (LIH), Hōkūala features the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront golf in the state. From mauna (mountain) to makai (ocean), every round delivers panoramic coastal views.
The front nine winds through jungles and guava groves, where lush fairways are framed by inland lagoons and bunkers. Trade winds intensify on the back nine, adding challenge to numerous risks vs. reward holes that are among the most photographed in the world.
Travelers can easily pair worldclass golf with luxury accommodations in the “4x4 Experience,” offered with OUTRIGGER Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa. The bundle includes four nights and four rounds. The best part? Golf is not person limited. One single can play four times, a twosome can play twice, or a foursome can tee it up together.
Starting at $1,868 and making a strong case as Kaua‘i’s most valuable golf package, the offer can be booked through May 4 for stays through Dec. 31. Make reservations at info@golfhokuala.com
For West Coast travelers seeking consistent warmth, great golf, spectacular scenery and effortless convenience, Hōkūala is as easy as it is extraordinary.
The Ocean Course at Hōkūala 3132 Ninini Point St Lihue, HI 96766 (808) 241-6000 golfhokuala.com
BLENDING CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF WITH TUSCANY-INSPIRED STYLE
Classic Club, located in the heart of Southern California’s Coachella Valley, delivers a premier desert golf experience anchored by its par-72, 7,305-yard Arnold Palmer-designed championship course. Known for its rolling terrain and strategic layout, the course features elevated tee boxes that provide dramatic sightlines and memorable shots.
Palmer’s design is both challenging and visually striking. Pine, olive, and pepperwood trees frame the fairways, complemented by flowering bushes, native shrubs, and pine straw ground cover. The landscaping contrasts beautifully with rugged mountain backdrops and sweeping valley vistas unique to the Coachella Valley, creating a setting that is as scenic as it is playable.
As a former host site of the PGA Tour, Classic Club offers a tournament-caliber layout with multiple tee options, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels. Beginners appreciate its playability and thoughtful design, while low handicappers can test their games from the championship tees.
Beyond the course, Classic Club recently unveiled its 63,000-squarefoot Tuscan Village-inspired clubhouse. The facility features elegant architecture, upscale amenities, and versatile event space. With banquet facilities accommodating up to 400 guests, Classic Club is an ideal venue for weddings, corporate meetings, group outings, and business conferences — blending championship golf with refined hospitality.
Classic Club
75200 Classic Club Blvd
Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 601-3600
classicclubgolf.com
Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club is a premier public-access daily fee facility in South Orange County, offering an 18-hole championship course designed by PGA Tour professional Tom Lehman in collaboration with acclaimed architect Casey O’Callaghan. Spanning 240 scenic acres alongside Trabuco Creek and The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, the course delivers a private-club feel with the accessibility and value of a daily fee property.
The layout blends strategic shotmaking with natural beauty, creating an experience comparable to the region’s most prestigious high-end clubs. Mature trees, rolling fairways, and a tranquil, park-like setting define the landscape, while the surrounding foothills provide a dramatic backdrop. Conveniently located just off Avery Parkway, Arroyo Trabuco is easily accessible yet feels worlds away from the bustle of everyday life.
Designed to challenge and reward players of all abilities, the course features five sets of tee boxes ranging from 5,045 to 7,000 yards. Trabuco Creek comes into play as a lateral hazard on seven holes, demanding accuracy and thoughtful course management, while lakes influence strategy on three additional holes. The result is a layout that balances risk and reward, offering both playability and competitive challenge.
With exceptional conditioning, memorable design, and outstanding value, Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club stands as one of South Orange County’s most enjoyable and respected public golf destinations.
Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club 26772 Avery Pkwy Mission Viejo, CA 92692 (949) 305-5100
arroyotrabuco.com
After a standout collegiate career at Stanford, Karl Vilips has wasted no time establishing himself at the professional level. Turning pro in 2024, he quickly earned his PGA Tour card through the Korn Ferry Tour, highlighted by a breakthrough victory at the Utah Championship and a series of strong finishes that secured his promotion. He carried that momentum into his rookie PGA Tour season, capturing his first Tour title at the Puerto Rico Open and cementing his status as one of the game’s rising young talents. After breaking down his swing, it’s easy to see why he’s quickly becoming a rising star on the PGA Tour.
Photos by Gordon Seay
1. Balance Starts at Setup
Karl’s knees, hips, and shoulders are square and aligned parallel to his intended target line.
His hips are positioned to create balance through the middle of his feet — not on his heels and not on his toes. His posture allows the arms to hang naturally beneath the shoulders with ample space from the body. That freedom and structure at address promote consistency and improved face control at impact.
2. Control the Takeaway, Control the Swing
The first foot of the takeaway sets the foundation for everything that follows. It should be driven by body motion — not hand manipulation. As the club moves away, pressure shifts into the trail side while the hips and shoulders rotate together. The arms respond to the turn; they do not initiate it. When the hands become active too early, face control and sequencing begin to break down. Build the swing from the ground up, and the rest can unfold naturally.
At the halfway point of the takeaway, the arms remain relaxed and comfortably away from the body. There is no manipulation of the hands, allowing the club face to stay aligned with his spine tilt.
The club travels naturally through his hands and remains parallel to the target line. Because the motion has been driven by the body rather than the hands, everything stays in sync. It’s a simple position — and very close to perfect.
At three-quarters of the way back, the hips and chest continue to load into the trail side while maintaining balance through the middle of the feet. The hands remain in front of the chest, a key indicator that the swing stays connected and structured. The shaft points toward the ball, placing the club on an excellent plane. With balance, depth, and structure intact, the swing is built to deliver from a powerful and repeatable position.
At the top, his trail leg is athletic and fully loaded, with balance centered through the middle of his feet. The club stops just short of parallel — a sign of efficient fundamentals and no wasted motion. Because the weight shift and rotation are properly sequenced, there is no need to overswing to create power. His right elbow points down, supporting the structure, while the shaft remains on plane and aligned toward the ball. A compact, efficient position built on balance and control.
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In transition, he shifts the weight from his trail foot onto his lead leg while keeping his chest closed to the target. This move allows the hands and club to drop naturally into an excellent position to approach the ball from the inside.
The shaft continues to point toward the ball, maintaining a strong, on-plane delivery.
It’s a powerful move built on sequence and control.
Maintaining posture and balance well past impact reduces the tendency to pull or push shots. When the swing is properly sequenced, the weight of the club and the centrifugal force of the motion naturally carry the body into a tall, balanced finish. A controlled follow-through is the final confirmation of a fundamentally sound golf swing.
He demonstrates excellent balance as his weight shifts almost entirely from the trail foot onto the lead leg. By maintaining posture and stability through the hitting area, the hands and club extend naturally toward the target rather than working across the body.
It’s a centered, powerful position that delivers both control and consistency.
Asian Tour, Australian Tour, Canadian Tour, South African Tour, South American Tour www.golflabacademy.com 6 7 8
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:
Empress 1908 Indigo Gin was inspired by tradition but created with a modern twist. Handcrafted in small batch copper-pot stills, Empress 1908 Gin is made by Victoria Distillers and inspired by the legendary Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. Its name pays tribute to the hotel, which opened in 1908 and is famous for its afternoon tea service. Master Distiller Phil Lecours crafted the spirit to reflect both the elegance of the Empress Hotel and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Aside from its award-winning flavor, what truly sets Empress 1908 Indigo Gin apart is its signature indigo color. Discovered in another bespoke Empress tea blend, the butterfly pea blossom imbues the gin with a distinctive earthy note that balances traditional citrus notes and yields a rich pigmentation. This deep indigo hue changes to bright lavender, soft pink, or fuchsia depending on the mixer, adding to the rich sensory experience that has made it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts.
Beyond its striking appearance, Empress 1908 is widely praised
Your favourite childhood treat, reimagined. The freshness of homestyle lemonade sings alongside the lightly floral lavender honey, keeping you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
1 oz Lavender Honey Syrup
2 oz Homemade Lemonade Lavender Sprig to garnish
for its balanced and layered flavor profile. It features eight carefully selected botanicals, including juniper, grapefruit peel, rose petal, and butterfly pea blossom. The result is a gin that delivers classic juniper structure with bright citrus notes, warm spice, and delicate floral undertones. It’s smooth enough for a simple gin and tonic yet complex enough for refined cocktails. Empress 1908 stands out because it combines heritage, craftsmanship, visual appeal, and exceptional taste — making it both a conversation piece and a seriously well-made gin. The Empress 1908 Gin range includes Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin, Empress 1908 Cucumber Lemon Gin and their newest release, Empress 1908 0.0 Indigo
Method: Fill a stemless wine glass with crushed ice. Shake the lemonade and syrup with ice, then strain into the glass. Layer Empress 1908 Indigo Gin on top and add more crushed ice. Garnish with a lavender sprig.
