Discover Golf, Dining, Fitness, Tennis, Pickleball, and More in Ormond Beach, FL!
Come Play Our 5 Championship Gardens This Summer.
If you’re planning to summer in place, make Fairfield Glade the place. You won’t find five more beautiful and challenging golf courses anywhere. Our summer weather is beautiful too. Thanks to our 2087 feet of elevation, temperatures and humidity are milder than most places this time of year.
Our cooler temperatures make golf, hiking, tennis, pickleball, fishing, boating or lounging by one of our several pools especially comfortable and fun.
Our Stay & Play Packages are beautifully affordable too. So don’t settle for just any garden variety getaway. Come play all five of our beautifully challenging 18-hole gardens. And while you’re at it, stop and smell the roses, lilies, zinnias, blue indigo, daisies, blue violets, periwinkles…
Conveniently located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322) For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233 or visit fairfieldglade.com Now the fun begins.
June 21st – a Monumental Day!
This day marks the first day of Summer, Shannon’s 24th Workiversary, Father’s Day, and Liza Mae Willey’s Birthday, RIP!
It’s hard to imagine, but Shannon Coates, my Editor-in-Chief, came to Golf Central Magazine 24 years ago in the magazine’s formative years. Through the years, we have developed into a cohesive team and I depend on her more than anyone. She has been with me through hirings and firings of some ridiculously inadequate staff members. She always councils and consoles (bitches) me about the endless faith I have in people. Ironically, this was a note received from the Universe while crafting this LFP.
Why not pretend, Terrie, just for today, that I am beside you in every moment (Through the shining and the sh*tty)?
That I will gladly carry your every burden. (Monday thru Friday)
Be your very best friend. (Only when you really need one)
Wanting for you whatever you want for yourself. (and all of us too)
Feeling only love, honor, and respect for your every choice. (LOL)
Laughing when you laugh and crying when you cry. (Always or at least 10 of the 24 years)
Talking to you through whispers, hunches, and instincts. (On a daily)
Loving you always, The Universe! But, who needs the universe when I have Shannon!!
Father’s Day June 21st is historically one of the busiest, and most profitable single days of the year for the golf Industry. It moves the needle in a massive surge in participation, thanks to families hitting the links together. Obviously, retail spending increases as loving children buy gear, apparel, and certs for rounds of golf to celebrate their dads. As we honor all the wonderful men in our lives, the fathers, step-fathers, and men who step up as a father-figures, be generous and patient, especially if you’re playing a round of golf with them. I have had (and still have) in my hive some fabulous fathers and you know who you are, way too many to mention. These men encourage, inspire, support, make us accountable both on and off the course. Being tangible role models, practical teachers, and most importantly protectors, is what they do every day without hesitation and for this I Am Forever Grateful!
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com)
Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com)
Graphic Design: Melahn Cable
Solutionist: Sara Rogers
Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams
Photojournalist: Greg Corbo
Videographer: Ronald Malone
Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Angela Kiska, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.
International Correspondent: Dave Finn
The Needle: Bill Bona
Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Lauren McMillin
Anthony Williams, Tres Fenton, Ronald Malone, Paul Kiska, Tim King, Rocky Miller, Sara Rogers, Dave Walker
Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Nick Geddes, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, George McNeilly, Traveling Golfer, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists
Discover the Ultimate in Luxury and Exclusivity at
Where the good life comes to play.
Welcome to Plantation Bay, the premier private golf course community in Ormond Beach, Florida, where luxury, sophistication, and active living blend seamlessly. Our recent rebranding and the introduction of our new 40,500-squarefoot golf and lifestyle center, The Founders Club, have elevated the community to new heights, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an unmatched lifestyle. Here, every day is an opportunity to indulge in the finest amenities, enjoy exceptional activities, and become part of an exclusive community where family values and premier membership take center stage.
A New Era of Excellence
Our new ambiance marks the dawn of a new era in which we’ve meticulously crafted a community that caters to the discerning tastes of our members. The Founders Club stands as a testament to this commitment, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a myriad of luxurious amenities that promise to elevate your lifestyle. Plantation Bay is designed to provide an unparalleled experience for every member.
The Ultimate Family Experience
We understand the importance of family. Our community is built on the principles of inclusivity, activity, and togetherness. Whether you’re a family with young children or a retiree, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Imagine a place where your children and grandchildren can explore, play, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment while you relax and unwind in our world-class spa and fitness center. With a plethora of family-friendly activities, sports memberships, and events, Plantation Bay is the perfect place to create lasting memories.
Championship Golf Courses
Golf enthusiasts will revel in the 45 distinct holes set among Florida’s natural beauty. Our courses offer a unique and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens, combined withbreathtaking scenery, make Plantation Bay a golfer’s paradise. Whether you’re perfecting your swing or enjoying a leisurely round with friends, our courses provide an unforgettable golfing experience.
Unmatched Amenities & Activities
Life here is an endless adventure filled with op-
portunities for pampering, staying in shape, and playing. Our 7,000-sq. ft. Spa and Fitness Center is the epitome of relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a wide range of services to help you look and feel your best. But the amenities don’t stop there. Plantation Bay boasts a variety of activities and clubs designed to engage and entertain every member. From tennis and pickleball to swimming and fishing, our community offers a wide range of activities. Enjoy culinary classes, social events, and more. Our vibrant events calendar caters to diverse interests, ensuring there’s always something exciting for everyone.
The Perfect Membership
Being a member of Plantation Bay means more than just access to exceptional amenities; it means becoming part of a close-knit, sophisticated community where every detail is designed with you in mind. Our membership options are tailored to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families, offering a range of benefits that enhance your lifestyle. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to all our facilities, including our dining establishments, and invitations to special events that bring our community together.
Discover Plantation Bay Today
Plantation Bay is more than just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle that you’ll fall in love with. The moment you enter the gates, you’ll understand why our members never want to leave. From the lush landscapes and meticulously maintained grounds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, our community is the epitome of luxury living. We invite you to visit us and experience the lifestyle for yourself. Take a tour of our stunning community, explore our new club, and see why so many have chosen to call Plantation Bay home.
For more information about membership and to schedule your visit, please contact us at 844-325-1658 or visit our website at PlantationBayGolf.com
Exclusive Golf Clinic with
Annika Sörenstam & Lydia Ko at Mystic Dunes
Women’s golf is having a moment, with female participation having hit a record 7.9 million on-course players, and nearly a third of all golfers worldwide are now women.
Hilton Grand Vacations
Ambassadors Annika Sörenstam and Lydia Ko lead an intimate golf clinic at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Kissimmee, FL. The event included a demonstration, Q&A, hands-on practice on the driving range with one-on-one tips from Annika and Lydia, followed by dinner and drinks.
Between the two of them, they brought a combined 95 LPGA Tour wins, 13 Major Championships, three Olympic medals, and two Hall of Fame inductions to the lesson tee. The clinic was part of HGV Ultimate Access, a signature member benefit that gives HGV’s 720,000+ Club Members exclusive access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences across the world.
Where did you grow up? I’m from a small town called Culpeper, Virginia. Growing up there really taught me to appreciate community and genuine connections with people.
What motivates you every day at work? What motivates me every day is the people. I genuinely enjoy creating a positive experience for members and making people smile. I also love that every day is different. I get to be outside, make new friends yuck, and build relationships while doing something I truly enjoy.
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? I absolutely love playing volleyball. I grew up playing with my dad and brother, so it’s always been something special to me. I also really enjoy golfing myself, and when it comes to watching sports, golf is definitely my favorite whether it’s the pros or YouTube golf content.
What do you feel makes this club special? What makes this club so special is definitely the people. We have an incredible staff and amazing members, which is honestly hard to find these days. I feel really grateful to be surrounded by such a positive community. My manager, Dana, also plays a huge role in that. He genuinely cares about both the team and the members, and that creates such a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? The members are truly one of my favorite parts of the job. They are my friends; they are my people. I love getting to know people and building relationships with them. Being outside every day, interacting with people, and having my own space out on the course makes work really enjoyable. It is the best 9 to 5 and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Karina Chismar
What is your idea of the perfect date?
A picnic on the beach watching the sunset or a nice dinner with live music sounds perfect to me.
Favorite comedian? It’s honestly a tie between Adam Sandler and Will Ferrell.
Favorite type of movie? Comedy, without a doubt. I love movies that make me laugh the entire time.
Favorite charity to support? I love supporting people through GoFundMe campaigns whenever I can. Helping others, even in small ways, is really important to me.
What else would you like for us to know about you? I also work as a caddy, which has given me even more experience in the golf world and helped me better understand the game, the pace, and how to connect with different types of players. Between caddying and working on the cart, I’ve really grown to love being part of the golf community and everything that comes with it.
What has this job taught you about people? This job has taught me that kindness and genuine conversation go a really long way. You never know what kind of day someone is having, and sometimes just taking a minute to talk and make someone smile can mean more than you realize. It’s also shown me how important relationships and community are, which is a huge part of why I love what I do.
If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? Definitely something involving people because I’m such a people person. I also work in social media and promotional modeling, so I’d probably pursue those full-time.
What is your most memorable moment working as a cart girl? One of my favorite memories is talking with one of our members, Don Wood. Even though he never buys anything, he always takes the time to chat with me and reminds me how much kindness and conversation can brighten someone’s day. Those little moments really stick with me.
What’s your go-to drink or snack recommendation from the cart? I’d definitely recommend a PB&J and a Water Hazard, it’s one of my favorite drinks to make. Personally, since I don’t drink alcohol, I’d go with a Gatorade and a PB&J. It’s simple but always hits the spot.
What type of music do you prefer? Country music, all the way. It’s definitely my favorite genre, and I could listen to it nonstop.
What hobbies do you enjoy? I love being outdoors, so going to the beach and playing volleyball is probably my favorite combination.
A few weeks ago, Terrie Purdum, the publisher of GCM, and I attended a gathering at Mystic Dunes Golf Club for the press and owners of Hilton Grand Vacations. This was a function that featured a question/ answer session, a demonstration and a clinic for the attendees. This event featured World Golf Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam and LPGA star Lidia Ko. Both of these Ladies are outstanding Ambassadors for Hilton Grand Vacations (see pg 12). At this function we accidentally met a couple from Charlotte N.C., Tim Hammer and his wife. On Tim’s shirt was a logo of Fairways for Warriors and he told us he was the Squad Leader of the Charlotte chapter. Tim gave us the short story of Fairways for Warriors and it certainly intrigued us both. If you know anything about the publisher of GCM, you know Terrie is always dedicated to promoting the men and women of our military services and charities that help veterans. After a little research we found that an old friend Kenny Nairn was the Chairman of the Board of this organization. With this in mind Terrie could not
pass up an opportunity to meet with Kenny and Kate Wujek the Director of operations to see how GCM might help in promoting their cause. It was a very informative meeting and Terrie committed to help thru GCM. Now let me introduce you to this outstanding organization by telling you the “Why” Fairway for Warriors exist and the “How” they are going about accomplishing their mission. It is widely reported that there are 22 suicides a day by returning combat vets, that’s 8,000 annually! 1 in 5 returning combat veterans are diagnosed with severe posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD. PTSD as well as mild to moderate traumatic brain injuries, cause damage to the frontal lobe. This damage causes loss in fine motor skills, problem-solving, memory,
judgment, social behavior and increases sorrow, sadness, and anger. Recreational therapy has been proven as an adjunct to clinical therapies, and in many cases, successful in its own right as a treatment protocol. They have found that the camaraderie and challenges of golf provides a bridge into a new way of life. This popular sport provides crucial opportunities necessary for each combat wounded veteran’s journey towards
rehabilitation and healing. Golf is beneficial for the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of each combat wounded veteran’s rehabilitation processes.
Physical Health Benefits: Improves hand-eye coordination; increases functional independence, balance, strength, endurance, motor skills, and flexibility; reduces risk of secondary medical complications.
Cognitive Health Benefits: Improves frontal lobe stimulation; increases focus and attention; improves strategizing, visualization, and creative thought for problem
solving; improves fine motor skills.
Emotional Health Benefits: Increases level of serotonin in the brain, which leads to a calm/ relaxed feeling; enhances selfesteem; assists with managing stress and anxiety; alleviates and/ or decreases risk of depression.
Social Health Benefits: Encourages meaningful experiences and relationships that contribute to healthy lifestyle behaviors; provides sense of community and belonging through shared experience.
How to Help: $1,000 sponsors the cost of a one weekend golf clinic for
up to 40 combat wounded veterans and their families. $1,000 supports two combat wounded veterans for 8 mental health therapy sessions. They also accept gently used golf equipment that is 3 years or less in age. They are always in need of golf instructors and the local community and businesses who would like to volunteer their time to teach or provide support for our clinics, tournaments, and events. Since 2010, an average of 90¢ of every dollar donated goes towards their mission, services and the combat veterans we support.
June is officially designated as PTSD Awareness Month. It is an annual campaign dedicated to raising public understanding, reducing the stigma around mental health, and highlighting that effective, evidence-based treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are available. Should you or a family member have a need, there are 12 chapters located in 7 states including Orlando and throughout Florida, San Antonio TX, Raleigh NC, Charlotte NC, Scottsdale AZ, Richmond VA, Tidewater VA. East TN/Tricities and Grand Strand, SC.
Fairways for Warriors believes in leaving no wounded combat veteran behind!! Contact Info: Fairways for Warriors Inc. PO Box 342 Plymouth, FL 32768 info@fairwaysforwarriors.org
the return for another Challenge
By: Greg Wise, Golf the Wise Way
The Three Generation Challenge, beginning in 2018, during a family trip to see our son Travis, daughterin-law Charlotte, and Grandson Chase Wise in Catania, Sicily, Italy.
The original challenge was contested on the Siracusa Golf Monasteri (Golf Central Magazine – Volume 19, Issue 2) and would truly lead to an eye-opening experience for me that I knew had to be repeated whenever possible.
Because of Covid, we were delayed for the second installment. Once travel restrictions opened up in Italy… a trip to Rome was planned. We selected Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, in Guidonia, Rome, 10 miles from the city center (Golf Central Magazine - Voume 23, Issue 4). After attending the 2021 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in Wisconsin… we wanted to experience the course that the 2023 Ryder Cup would be played on.
The second day in Rome was played on the Country Club of Castelgandolfo. A unique design to the world of golf course architecture. Designed by Robert
Trent Jones, Sr. The course boasts… 18 holes, 3 lakes, and 93 bunkers. What makes it unique? It is built inside an extinct volcano.
But where to play this year?
We planned a long vacation stay in Sicily… because of
Chase’s Sigonella High School - DoWEA (Department of War Education Activity) Baseball Spring Championship in Germany in mid-May and his High School graduation in early June, we had time to plan for the perfect
Greg Wise,Travis Wise and Chase Wise
The walk up to the clubhouse… let the Challenge begin.
golfing day. Graduating?… Wow - where has the time gone?
We selected an amazing location… Sicilia’s Picciolo Etna Golf in Castiglione Di Sicilia. Where the landscape becomes part of play.
Designed in 1989 by architect Luigi Rota Caremoli, it was the first 18-hole par-72 golf course to be built in Sicily. This 5,870-meter course (6,321 yards) is truly the most technical challenging course for your golf game, that I have seen in a long time.
Don’t let the short distance make you feel like you are not going to get a good challenge. Around every turn there is something different to have to make a
decision about. Iron off the tee… or maybe 3-wood at the most. Architect Luigi Rota Caremoli was playing you… to make a mistake. This is not a “one-and-done” golf course. You need to play it at least three times to appreciate that power alone will not beat this course. With a 2,400 to 2,600 feet above sea level… you need to learn the proper placements on each hole to produce your best score. My problem was always looking over my shoulder, and in many cases, Mt Etna was acting as a frame with the trees to create the perfect golf picture for your eyes. Mt. Etna can be seen from every hole on the golf course – Well… unless you are in the bottom of the ravine on
Chase Wise – Ready for solid contact – Photo by Greg Wise
Travis Wise from the edge of the gorge… Now let’s go in the gorge to find my ball.
Short par 4 – Risk Reward… or you are in the gorg.
number 13 – a risk reward 250-yard par 4. Guess they forgot to tell me that if you don’t make the green what lurks in front of the green. The bottom of the ravine… you can only see up… to blue sky.
Playing Sicilia’s Picciolo Etna Golf means entering into a unique dialogue with the power of the volcano and the tranquility of its landscape… add green grass and your game is set for a real adventure.
At the end of the day… Chase and I played a scramble format. With his schedule of focusing on Baseball… it would be a distinct disadvantage to play heads up best ball… boy… I guess he got the short end of the stick with me as his partner.
One tremendous shot from Chase was the 3rd hole. 235-yards off the edge of a cliff. A real tight par 4… his drive hit the middle of the fairway… bounced over the bunker guarding the front edge of the green and rolled to the back of the green about 12-feet from the hole. “DO I HEAR AN EAGLE” attempt? Coming
up short on his eagle putt… Chase learned an interesting phrase from his dad you had done the same thing years ago… “Never leave an Eagle putt short!” – but the sure tap in for the birdie and seeing his smile, made it all worthwhile.
Oh… by the way… Chase and I lost by 2 strokes over Travis and his playing partner… so there is a “NEXT TIME!”
Would I return to the foothills of Mt. Etna to Stay and Play… You Bet! Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa Curio Collection by Hilton is a welcoming retreat that invites guests to savor time well spent. Whether you come to relax, play golf, explore the surrounding landscape, or simply recharge, every moment feels authentic and timeless.
10th hole – Trying to stay focused on the green! – Photo by Greg Wise
10th hole – Trying to stay focused on the green! – Photo by Greg Wise
Where were you born? Bridgton, Maine
Is “acting your age” overrated? A bsolutely! If we all acted our age motorcycles, concerts, bad decisions, and of course Taco Bell after 10pm would disappear overnight.
What do you do for a living? I work for Veterans Affairs as a police officer.
What would you like to do for a living? I’d probably want a job where I can travel, ride motorcycles, listen to live music, avoid meetings, and occasionally use my police voice on idiots. Basically, retired… but somehow still getting paid.
What golf apparel do you like to wear? A neon paisley golf polo that looks like it was designed by a psychedelic tax accountant. The base color is electric lime green, but it slowly fades into flamingo pink sleeves covered in tiny alligators wearing sunglasses and sipping martinis.
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? I have a real and not real. For not real: James Bond. Not for the gadgets or the tux, but for the calm under pressure while everything is actively going sideways. For real: Theodore Roosevelt. The original “do hard things on purpose” guy.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. Only my closest friends know I build police car models with bomb tech precision.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Someone who won’t stop talking when it’s your turn to hit, especially if it’s a long explanation about wind, grass, and “feel”.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. Lucas, Conor, Kai, and Jayce. Yes, I know that’s four.
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? I’d pick love. But, only if it doesn’t mess with my golf tee times, motorcycle rides, or ability to still chase success and money… just in case.
What do you fear the most? Probably the fear of losing independence, ending up in a life where you can’t make your own choices or move freely on your own terms.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Bill Murray and Bob Hope for the laughs; and then George W. Bush to keep it fun and full of good-natured trash talk on every hole.
What are some of your great accomplishments? Well first my children!! A few more accomplishments are probably my 35 years of public service in the military and my career as a policeman and bomb technician. The pride I take in that work and the camaraderie that came with it and the fact that I’ve had a hand in touching and protecting a lot of lives along the way.
Favorite television channel? Fox, home of the Simpsons.
Last book you read? The Demon of Unrest
Favorite charity to support? I’m skeptical of most charities because of overhead, so I prefer ones like the American Cancer Society that focus on the patients and research.
What else would you like for us to know about you? I spent many years in the military and law enforcement, where I learned to value trust and keeping things simple. I try to carry that same mindset in everyday life, be honest, stay grounded, and don’t overcomplicate things. I enjoy being out and about when I can, whether it’s a motorcycle ride, a round of golf, live music, or just a relaxed night out.
Henry Small
Henry with his sons, Luke and Conor
Where were you born? Huntington, New York (Long Island) Did you grow up there? Yes
Is “acting your age” overrated? Not at all. Every year brings more wisdom, confidence, and perspective. I’m having the best time in my 30s because I know who I am, what matters most, and how to enjoy life to the fullest.
What do you do for a living? I am the Events Manager at Mayfair Country Club, where I have the privilege of creating memorable experiences and bringing people together for life’s most special occasions.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I love staying active through fitness, ballroom and Latin dancing, reading, relaxing by the pool, spending time outdoors, traveling, and making memories with my two daughters. I also enjoy trips to New York to visit family whenever I can.
What golf apparel do you like to wear? Adidas, Tail, NVO, Callaway, and Nike. I love pieces that combine style, comfort, and performance on the course.
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My mom. She is the strongest, most compassionate woman I know and has shaped so much of who I am today. She’s beautiful inside and out, leads with kindness, and has taught me the value of integrity, resilience, and love.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I have a knack for fashion and design. Friends and family regularly call me for wardrobe advice, styling tips, and even interior decorating ideas.
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? My family, a phone with unlimited battery and signal to call for help, and a boat to get us back home!
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? My brother to captain the boat, my sister for endless laughs, and my dad for his wisdom and ability to solve just about any problem.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. My two daughters—they are my greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. Meaningful relationships built on trust, loyalty, laughter, and genuine connection. Growth and creating memories through new experiences, travel, and sharing life with the people I love.
What are some of your great accomplishments? Raising two incredible daughters, earning my degree in Marketing and Fashion Merchandising, becoming the top salesperson in the Northeast shortly after graduating college, building a successful career in hospitality and events, and making a positive impact on the people around me both personally and professionally.
Favorite charity to support? Organizations that support children and families. Helping people build brighter futures is a cause that’s always close to my heart.
What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m caring, loyal, compassionate, and fun-loving. I’m deeply family-oriented and value meaningful connections. I approach life with gratitude, optimism, creativity, and faith. Whether I’m planning an event, dancing, traveling, or spending time with loved ones, I believe the best moments in life are the ones we share with others creating meaningful memories.
Making Moves in Mississippi Dancing Rabbit Golf Club
Making Moves in Mississippi Dancing Rabbit Golf Club
at Pearl River Resort and Casinos
at Pearl River Resort and Casinos
Photos and story by Greg Corbo
Just when you think you’ve been to some really neat places and seen it all, unexpectedly, somewhere else grabs your attention and leaves a lasting impression. In 2026, do yourself a favor and take our advice. Treat yourself to a premier stay and play golf experience in the Southeast at a first-rate facility that rightfully deserves more notoriety. Dancing Rabbit Golf Club at Pearl River Resort and Casinos (Philadelphia, Mississippi) showcases two of the best golf courses in the Magnolia State sitting pretty side by side. Owned and operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, this 700-acre parcel of land in East Central Mississippi is considered “sacred ground” where golfers of all abilities become
immersed in isolation through an action-packed adventure of hills, valleys, lakes, streams, ponds, and local wildlife. Carved out of an ancient forest with massive oaks, towering pines and tumbling terrain, each hole at Dancing Rabbit is considered an individual masterpiece. The Azaleas (1997) and The Oaks (1999) courses, co-designed by Tom Fazio and Jerry Pate are both award winning beauties ranked within the TOP 100 “You Can Play” public. No homes, nothing out of place, you can see only the hole being played making it visually engaging and uninterrupted.
“These golf courses are so natural looking the way they fit into the landscape it appears as if they just fell out of the sky a long
time ago,” said Sean Walker of Fort Walton Beach, Fl. “I was in this area on a business trip years ago and then realized Dancing Rabbit was within reach. I played the Oaks course late afternoon, stayed the night at Pearl River and played the Azaleas course early the very next morning. I was incredibly pleased and impressed with the entire set up they have between the golf and resort amenities. I’ve been back here on business and with my family because it makes travelling easy. Once you get here, you don’t need to go anywhere and who doesn’t like that?”
The Azaleas Course is often compared to Augusta National for its floral appeal and overall similar aesthetics with rolling unspoiled land. The Oaks course
which speaks to you off the tee might even be better. Hard to say, either way both courses present a collection of downhill Par-3’s that are remarkably fun to feast your eyes on. We all cherish championship conditions; Dancing Rabbit is tightly manicured with Tifway 11 Bermuda fairways and Tif-Eagle greens covering over 7,000 yards each with five sets of tees.
After golf you will retreat to the Pearl River Resort where an array of nighttime activities await with
anticipation. The Choctaw Band of Indians are so generous and accommodating, Pearl River is actually two hotels and casinos connected by a bridge over Highway 16 housing up to 1,000 rooms and suites. The Silver Star and Golden Moon Casinos feature a boatload of slot machines, table games, and Sportsbook along with banquet and meeting spaces just in case things get serious. A multitude of dining options are within footsteps of your newly renovated room including a sports
bar and grill. The award-winning Phillip M’S Steakhouse comes in highly recommended especially the SAFFRON CHOWDER soup oozing with shrimp, lobster and crabmeat. Add in live entertainment, retail offerings, full-service spa and a 24acre water park -- Pearl River Resort has you covered from top to bottom all within a remote rural setting allowing you to disappear for a few days or more. The Rabbit is worth a dance or two -- Thanks for your understanding and cooperation on this important golf matter.
The epic downhill par 3-No. 13 on The Azaleas Course.
Each hole at Dancing Rabbit is considered and individual masterpiece.
State parks in Georgia offer some of the most diverse sights worth seeing, scenes worth enjoying, and things worth doing, especially with families.
“In Georgia, we have more than 60 state parks, of which nine of them actually have golf courses, all of which are part of the Georgia Golf Trail,” said Georgia Golf Trail Founder Doug Hollandsworth. “Overall, the state park system in Georgia does a great job of catering to the recreational needs of its visitors.”
Georgia’s state parks offer many natural attractions and entertaining options such as camping, fishing, boating, canoeing, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, bicycling, backpacking, and golfing, among others.
Here are a few of my favorite memories while traveling around a handful of Georgia’s state parks in pursuit of the opportunity to unwind, relax and enjoy time with friends and family members.
Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge (McRae, Georgia)
Fun in the Sun. Visitors to the Little Ocmulgee State Park enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool, playing miniature golf,
taking bike rides around the park, and spending the night in one of the 60 air-conditioned rooms in the lodge. BTW: Here, the sweet ice tea is delicious.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (Young Harris, Georgia)
Time for R & R. The atmosphere at Brasstown Valley is refreshing, relaxing, and re-energizing. Here, you can go horseback riding, book a massage at the Equani Spa, play tennis, swim in the indoor pool, or enjoy
hiking around the surrounding North Georgia Mountains. BTW: Brassie’s Grill has great burgers, salads, and sandwiches.
Hard Labor Creek State Park (Social Circle, Georgia)
Gone Fishin.’ Fishermen are attracted to Hard Labor Creek State Park because of the presence and access to Lake Rutledge and Lake Brantley. A day on the water of Lake Rutledge and/or Lake Brantley is time well spent. BTW: Both lakes here were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Richard B. Russell State Park (Elberton, Georgia)
Camping Out. Many visitors to the Richard B. Russell State Park enjoy coming here because of the camping opportunities – in campers and motorhomes -- along Lake Richard B. Russell. This park, which also has spacious and modern cabins to rent, has a large swimming beach along the lake which is a popular destination for families with children. Lake Richard B. Russell also provides some of the best boating and fishing opportunities in Georgia. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, as well. BTW: Richard B. Russell State Park is known for its first-class disc golf course, which is free to play.
Horseback Riding at Brasstown Valley
Richard B. Russell camping options
Georgia Veterans State Park (Cordele, Georgia)
Military Might. Established as a memorial to U.S. veterans and operating under the theme, “Serve the Living: Honor our Heroic Dead,” Georgia Veterans State Park is home to an indoor and outdoor museum that pays tribute to veterans from the Revolutionary War through the present day. Visitors may visit the museum and learn about the history of our veterans and walk the outdoor static
displays which include: a B-29A Superfortress, jets, a helicopter, tanks, landing craft and artillery. This educational experience is ideal for families and school groups as we celebrate America’s 250th year of independence. BTW: Here, you can also find the 8,700-acre Lake Blackshear which is a fishing and boating paradise where you
can bring your own boat or rent one at the on-site marina. You now have a few great reasons to make a trip to visit many of the more than 60 state parks scattered around Georgia. If it’s your first visit, I can guarantee you that it won’t be your last. Georgia’s 60+ state parks (www.GaStateParks. org) await your arrival.
Fishing is a popular pursuit at Georgia State Parks
Lake Blackshear Marina
Richard B. Russell Disc Golf Hole
Lake Blackshear Tank at outdoor museum
THE PGA SHOW
Since 1954, the PGA Show has served as the world’s largest golf trade show and the epicenter of golf innovation. The first show started as an informal gathering of PGA professionals selling merchandise out of the trunks of their cars in the parking lot of the Dunedin Golf Club, in Dunedin, Florida during winter tournaments. Dunedin Golf Club was the home of the PGA of America from 1945 until 1956.
Fast forward twenty years, the PGA Show moved indoors to Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Orlando. In 1985, as attendance continued to grow and the game expanded globally, the Show moved to an even bigger venue, the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), also in Orlando, where it remains to date.
Held annually in the third week of January, the PGA Show was originally organized by the PGA of America, composed of more than 30,000 club professionals and coaches dedicated to growing the game of golf. In 1988, the PGA sold an equity stake to Reed Exhibitions (now called RX), a global leader in events and exhibitions
management. Together, they formed PGA Golf Exhibitions, the entity that produces and manages the show today.
Ever-evolving, this past January PGA Golf Exhibitions took a bold and innovative leap when it decided to open the doors to its exclusive, industry-only trade show to golf fans and consumers worldwide through
the development and production of a three-part, on demand video series called, UNLOCKED THE PGA SHOW.
For the first time in its 73-year history, consumers can now watch and experience this four-day legendary event online at pgashowunlocked. com and buy the hottest new products and tech launched at this year’s show.
UNLOCKED THE PGA SHOW was produced in partnership with NBTV, a content production and technology company that has developed a ground-breaking shoppable technology called the BUY BAR™. The patented BUY BAR allows seamless in-video shopping with featured product placement. Golfers can buy while watching. No scanning, no second screen, no QR code. Products are instantly shoppable with BUY BAR on any mobile device, laptop, or connected TV.
The three-episode series, hosted by golf influencers Doug Smith and Maiya Tanaka, brings viewers into the energy and vibe of the Show Floor, Demo Day, and behindthe-scenes moments through fastpaced segments, interviews, contests and hands-on product testing.
“Think Shopify meets Netflix,” said Nick Buzzell, Co-Founder and CEO of NBTV. “BUY BAR enables viewers to shop directly within video content. By combining premium production with our V-Commerce technology, UNLOCKED transforms the PGA Show into an interactive experience that benefits fans, brands and the industry alike.”
UNLOCKED: Day One spotlights the largest outdoor equipment testing lab – known as PGA Demo Day –staged at Orange County National Golf Center, and some of golf’s legendary coaches and players.
UNLOCKED: Day Two brings viewers onto the 1.1 million sq. ft. convention floor to experience golf’s grandest “candy store.” Special segments include the indoor Equipment Testing Center, the New Product Zone and the PGA Fashion Show.
UNLOCKED: Day Three takes an even deeper dive into game-changing innovation and emerging brands.
UNLOCKED showcases more than 50 brands and products hitting retailers right now. Improve your game with the latest balls and sticks for ‘26 from Callaway, PING, PXG, Bridgestone, Titleist, L.A.B Golf and more. Launch monitors and range finders including Flight Scope and Blue Tees. Indoor simulators from Full Swing and Uneekor.
Keep your game jamming with Bushnell’s Wingman and Turtlebox outdoor speakers. Need a new bag?
UNLOCKED has the latest from Vessel, Izzo, and Sun Mountain; match it up with a Club Glove travel bag and Dormie handcrafted headcovers.
If you’re looking to freshen up your fits, UNLOCKED features top trending apparel from Malbon, Fore All and Students along with performance footwear from Adidas, Nike and Footjoy. Plus a potpourri of must have golf accessories.
“ UNLOCKED gives golfers everywhere a front-row seat to the PGA Show,” said PGA Show Vice President Marc Simon.
“The PGA Show is where the industry launches the season, and now fans can experience that momentum firsthand seeing the newest innovations, hearing directly from brands and inventors, and shopping the products shaping the future of the game.”
With the BUY BAR it’s all at golfers’ fingertips with just one click.
UNLOCKED is streaming at pgashowunlocked.com.
It will be another year of memorable finishes on the iconic 18th hole at Stonehenge Golf Club as the Tennessee Golf Association and Tennessee PGA Section are excited to continue their agreement with the Fairfield Glade Community Club for the 2026 season.
Fairfield Glade will once again be the title sponsor for the Tennessee Women’s Open and the Tennessee Senior State Open, with Stonehenge Golf Club as the host course for both. The 28th Tennessee Women’s Open will be held from July 23-25 at Stonehenge “We’re proud to welcome the Tennessee Golf Association and the Tennessee PGA Section back to Fairfield Glade this summer for the Tennessee Senior State Open and Women’s Open—events that showcase great competition while creating a meaningful impact for our community and Cumberland County,” said Bill Ward, General Manager/COO of the Fairfield Glade Community Club.
“After every final round, we consistently hear from players how the Tennessee Women’s Open is their favorite tournament of the year, and that is thanks to the Fairfield Glade community,” Tennessee Golf Association Executive Director Allison Brown said. “Having this partnership with Fairfield Glade just goes to show even more how much this event is embraced by the residents here,
and we are incredibly thankful for that support year after year.”
Since the partnership began in 2024, both events continue to draw large crowds on the 18th green and overwhelming support from volunteers. This year, all three organizations look to continue growing those numbers to make the events the best in the country.
“We always love hosting these two incredible tournaments. With great volunteer support and more fans getting involved each year, we hope players feel at home and have a memorable experience here,” said Jeff Houston, Director of Golf at the Fairfield Glade Community Club.
For those interested in volunteering at the 2026 Tennessee Women’s Open, please contact Jeremy Jones at jjones@ fairfieldglade.cc or 931-484-3731; or Jeff Houston at jhouston@ fairfieldglade.cc or 931-707-2158.
Additionally, we are currently
seeking host housing for players participating in the Tennessee Women’s Open. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jeff Houston at jhouston@ fairfieldglade.cc or 931-707-2158.
The 28th Tennessee Women’s Open will be held from July 23-25 at Stonehenge.
About the Tennessee Women’s Open:
Started in 1999, the Tennessee Women’s Open is one of the longest-running women’s Open tournaments in the country. The 54-hole event is split into two divisions, the Championship Division and the Senior Division. The tournament has been held at Stonehenge Golf Club in Fairfield Glade since 2009. Celebrating over 25 years of competition, the Tennessee Women’s Open has consistently attracted top talent from around the globe.
Past winners include current LPGA Professionals Ashli Bunch, Lauren Coughlin and Karlin Beck as well as some of the top amateur golfers in the world like Tennessee Players of the Year Sophie Linder and Lynn Lim.
Competitors at the tournament tell the Tennessee Golf Association that the Tennessee Women’s Open is one of their favorite tournaments of the year because of the community behind it.
Walking up to the 18th green at Stonehenge with the area around
the green packed with spectators makes their summer season.
About the Tennessee Senior State Open:
The Tennessee Senior State Open is celebrating its 17th year, all of which have taken place at Stonehenge Golf Club. The 36-hole tournament welcomes 126 seniors from around the state, split into two divisions. 100 seniors make up the Championship Division, while 26 other golfers will compete in the Super Senior Division.
The Tennessee Senior State Open brings in the top professionals and amateurs from the Volunteer State every year. Past winners include a host of Tennessee Golf Hall of Famers, including Tim Jackson and Danny Green.
About Fairfield Glade:
Fairfield Glade is an affordable 12,000+ acre golf, tennis, pickleball and lake resort community located on the Cumberland Plateau near Crossville, TN. Situated between
Nashville and Knoxville, 2000 feet above sea level, it is the highest point between the Rocky and Smoky Mountains. This resort community has five championship golf courses, including Stonehenge Golf Course, home of the Tennessee Women’s Open and Tennessee Senior Men’s Open Championships. At Druid Hills Golf Course, the Golf Garage features two indoor/outdoor hitting bays for lessons, fittings, clinics, and virtual play, along with the Quarry Putting Course—a 23,000-squarefoot green with 18 challenging holes.
There are 11 spring-fed lakes for boating and fishing along with two full-service marinas and sandy beaches on lakes Dartmoor and St. George. There are miles of paved walking and hiking trails that take advantage of the incredible natural beauty and beautiful mountain views. The Center has 36,000 sq. ft. with meeting space to satisfy the needs of any event. The Center also has an indoor Junior Olympic-sized pool, hot tub, sauna, basketball
courts, Sip & Savor Café and Classroom meeting space. There is an on-site Wellness Center with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, another indoor pool and exercise classes. Fairfield Glade has indoor and outdoor tennis courts, pickleball courts, two outdoor pools, Mini-Golf, parks and a Library. In addition to all the outdoor amenities and activities, Fairfield Glade offers resort casual dining in Stonehenge Grille along with excellent food options at each golf course snack bar.
Fairfield Glade is located at 7827 Peavine Road, near Crossville, TN, just 6 miles off I-40 and within a short drive of three metropolitan cities- less than an hour from Knoxville and less than two hours from Nashville and Chattanooga. For more information, please contact Mary Jo Paige, Director of Marketing & Events at 931-707-2167. For additional information about Fairfield Glade Community Club, visit our website at www.faifieldglade.com.
Jessica Welch, Tennessee Womens Open Winner 2025
Many Losers on Social Media Continue to Bash Vanna White
By Chuck Cavalaris
Way too many people on social media need to get a life. Or learn some manners. Pronto.
For the better part of two decades, it has become fashionable to criticize Vanna White on social media. Of course, she might be an easy target after being on national TV almost every week night since 1982. That’s about 8,800 episodes. Take your pick of platforms: Facebook, Instagram or TikTok have made the long-time “Wheel of Fortune” cohost a frequent target.
Some claim her arms are too skinny for a sleeveless dress. Or she doesn’t stand or walk just right in 6-inch heels. Maybe her elegant gowns have too much glitter or too many sequins — or too few. It honestly doesn’t take much to get her critics going.
It seemed to get worse late in 2019 when Vanna took on host duties because Pat Sajak had emergency surgery for a blocked intestine (his life-threatening medical condition was not initially disclosed). Vanna also has been lambasted for having the easiest job in broadcasting history. It’s a role the North Myrtle Beach native has held for 44 years. There seems to be some jealousy to it. After all, she works as the letter revealer for just 34 days a year and six shows a day.
After renegotiating her salary from $3 million a season to $10 million when Sajak retired in 2024, Vanna now makes about $48,000 per show. But that’s not her only source of income. She’s also been a savvy real estate investor, including flipping houses in Los Angeles. It adds up to a staggering net worth estimated between $85 Million and $90 Million. That’s pretty good work, if you can get it!
So, a critic on social media can make hurtful comments, then click a button and feel better. Why can’t they do like almost everyone else and complain about politics, the weather or a rival sports team? The negative posts about “Vanna’s
appearance” went viral after the first Wednesday in May, following the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic Pro-Am. Vanna was ripped on social media because of her “appearance“ — apparently without makeup — in television interviews and photographs. This included a brief interview on The Golf Channel at least an hour after her round.
To Vanna’s credit, she had played 18 holes as the recently named ambassador for the PGA Tour event at Dunes Golf & Beach Club. She was awarded an honorary membership to the exclusive oceanfront club earlier in the week. She also received a custom tour golf bag with familiar “Wheel” letters RSTLNE on the strap and NWB TO LA on the bottom of the bag.
Here’s what the critics missed: During the Pro-Am, Vanna made time to sign countless autographs and graciously posed for all sorts of selfies. She was easy to locate because she had the largest gallery.
So, what happened with the whole makeup thing? After the round, Vanna did not ask to visit the powder room.
Vanna White and long time boyfriend and real estate developer John Donaldson announced their marriage on Jan. 21st after a private ceremony
It has been almost 30 years since “Vanna Speaks” arrived at book stores and it quickly became a best seller.
She has a daily workout routine and may have gone to the fitness center instead of the media center. Her workouts with 10 pound weights and a stationary bicycle are well documented. Truth be known, Vanna does not go overboard with makeup anyway, especially away from studio tapings.
Here’s a news flash for the nasty crowd on social media: Vanna Marie White turned 69 on Feb. 18th. How eye-opening is that? She definitely was energized to return home to the 60-mile Grand Strand area billed as “The Golf Capital of the World.” She has been one of the biggest fans of the tournament from Day One in 2024. She was the perfect choice as tournament ambassador and it was Myrtle Beach Week on “The Wheel” during tournament week. No doubt about it — it was great to have Vanna back. She started playing golf again about six years ago after a 40-year layoff. She has worked diligently to break 100 and has a career best score of 84. She is determined to shoot in the 70s and soon.
The celebrity lineup featured five-time major champion Brooks Koepka; tour veteran Brant Snedeker, who had
an emotional comeback victory at age 45 for his 10th PGA Tour victory; actors Kevin Costner, Kurt Russell and Greg Kinnear; tennis great John McEnroe; Formula One world champion Lanto Norris; and John Stamos, who joined The Beach Boys for a Friday night concert.
Everything seemed to go extremely well … until the social media criticism about “Vanna White with no makeup” exploded online.
When you think about it, “The Wheel of Fortune” averages more than 8 million viewers per episode. So, if just one percent of the viewers post negative comments that’s at least 80,000 people. To her credit, Vanna does not respond publicly and has a huge following of devoted fans. Many are aware of her
charitable work, including helping raise or donate more than $2 Million for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. She also active in wildlife rescue, especially birds.
Vanna’s fans also know she is about as down-to-earth as a person can be. Most would gladly accept the real-life version of Vanna White — with or without makeup after the round, for goodness sakes. After all, the cute little girl that grew up at 1414 Madison Lane in North Myrtle Beach has become a national treasure. She’s just as like-able as homemade ice cream at a church picnic. You can even find the famous “Vanna Banana split” at the Original Painter’s Ice Cream shop in North Myrtle Beach.
That’s about as good as it gets — no matter how many stupid things continue to be posted about her on social media.
Vanna White wore a stylish “casual golf glam” outfit for the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic Pro-Am at the Dunes Golf & Beach Club
Vanna White signed dozens of autographs during the Pro-Am and had just been named the ambassador for the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic.
The Brella
Brella Brella LLC (“BB”), a veteran-owned business, makes The Brella®, a unique, unisex one-size-fits-most, high performance, waterproof rain wear designed for the fashion/lifestyle, ad promotions, collegiate and ML branding, and outdoor sports markets.
The Brella is user customizable with several unique features as you can tighten the fit around the waist; release the side snaps for cross ventilation; retract the hood for 180 degree peripheral vision improving user safety; a non-restrictive, freedom of motion for the upper body and arms; lightweight and packable; affordable; and unisex, one size fits most. Users are women, men, plussizes, youth and persons with a disability. Being unisex reduces inventory, returns and markdowns.
www.brellabrella.com
Shot Scope
For the number one Dad in your life, Shot Scope has the most popular launch monitor ready to buy; it’s the gift every golfer wants. The LM1 retails for $199.99, no subscription fees, and is a compact training device designed for golfers who want reliable data without complexity.
Five metrics are measured: club speed, ball speed, smash factor, carry distance, and total distance. Test and measure how fast you are with the dedicated speed training mode, which works with clubs and speed sticks.
If Dad is looking for a rangefinder or watch Shot Scope has a few specials this Father’s Day: PRO L5 Rangefinder: RRP $229.99, on SALE $179.99, save $50; PRO L2 Rangefinder: RRP $149.99, on SALE $129.99, save $20; and the V5 GPS and Shot Tracking Watch: RRP $249.99, on SALE $199.99, save $50. (Sale ends: June 30) Visit https://shotscope.com/us/.
TRUE Linkswear
TRUE linkswear wishes every Dad a Happy Father’s Day with a special promotion: spend $100+ and get a free Vacay Slide or FS Slide. Help your dad enjoy the walk on and off the golf course with TRUE shoes or something from the apparel collection. This special begins on June 4 and runs through June 21. (Promo code is FOREDAD26 both items must be added to cart, not combinable with any other offers or promotions).
www.truelinksweear.com
SuperStroke
His hands are Dad’s only connection point his body has to the golf club, so the feeling his club grip gives him has to inspire confidence, control and deliver consistent performance. SuperStroke’s line of REVL Player, Element, and Comfort grips are designed for golfers who rely on that enhanced comfort and control. From tee-to-green and on all of those critical short game shots, REVL Element grips offers unprecedented performance, durability, control, and feel for golfers who demand it – like your Dad.
SuperStroke also offers several Father’s Day gifting options with custom personalization on its popular Zenergy putter grips. You can personalize SuperStroke putter grips by uploading a custom image (such as family photos, pets, or logos) during checkout on SuperStrokeUSA.com. This option is available in popular styles including Pistol, Flatso, Tour and WristLock models. Visit SuperStrokeUSA for more great Father’s Day gift ideas.
www.SuperStrokeUSA.com
LIFE SPECTACULAR
Set on a pristine white sand beach, Baha Mar perfectly balances an array of spectacular experiences with luxurious relaxation in the pure Caribbean sunshine. Exquisite dining experiences from world-renowned chefs, lush tropical pools, The Bahamas’ top golf course, and our new 15-acre luxury water park Baha Bay await you.
The Golf Crypt announces Grand Opening of Port St. Lucie Location
The new location offers an upscale and innovative approach to practice with Trackman simulator
The Golf Crypt, the premier Trackman indoor golf club, today announced it will celebrate the grand opening of its new location in Port St. Lucie, Fla. at 320 NW Enterprise Drive, Suite 117, Port St. Lucie, Fla. The facility is located directly off St. Lucie Blvd. West, east of I-95, and across from Clover Park, the spring training ballpark for the New York Mets.
Since 2022, The Golf Crypt has been providing an upscale and relaxing space for golfers of all experience levels. By removing the challenges of cost, weather, and availability, each location offers a private space where members can practice, play, and perform — 365 days a year. With an elevated play experience, The Golf Crypt is a franchise partner with Trackman, the leading simulation technology for realistic gameplay and precision data analytics for better golf practice. Trackman is also the official launch monitor system for the PGA Tour.
The newest location will give members access to Trackman’s simulator technology, featuring play on more than 500 world-
renowned courses along with in-depth shot analysis, game modes, and a variety of performance-enhancing tools. The Golf Crypt welcomes Port St. Lucie residents to celebrate the opening and uncover the value of an engaging, precisionbased training experience.
Trevor Freeman, owner of The Golf Crypt’s newest franchise, is a PGA professional instructor, fitter, and player, providing swing instruction through physical assessments and technology. He also spent seven years as an LPGA caddie and as a player consultant for up-and-coming PGA tour players. The Golf Crypt at Port St. Lucie will provide members and non-members access to private instruction from Freeman at a reduced rate.
“The elevated playing experience at The Golf Crypt is invaluable in improving a player’s skillset,” said Freeman. “Golfers can realize their full potential and improve their games faster when they engage with the cutting-edge Trackman technology found in our facility.”
In addition to long game
training, the Port St. Lucie location offers an elevated 17-foot putting green for short game training.
“There’s no doubt, practice inside will result in better play outside,” Freeman added.
The Golf Crypt is headquartered in Jupiter, Florida. The Port St. Lucie location marks the newest franchise in the premier indoor golf training facility’s network, which is currently available to Gold Coast and Treasure Coast residents.
“We’re eager to give more golfers access to a premier training experience,” said Frank Drago, owner of The Golf Crypt franchise company. “The grand opening of the Port St. Lucie location marks another step in connecting golfers to the power of Trackman in a facility designed for the ultimate play and practice experience. Using this innovative golf simulation technology, players will be amazed at this unparalleled, meticulous golf experience.”
The Ultimate Indoor Golf Experience Arrives in Clearwater
Clearwater residents no longer need to worry about unpredictable weather or scorching afternoons to enjoy a world-class round of golf. Golf Social Clearwater has officially arrived, redefining the local sports and entertainment scene by bringing the world’s best courses right to the neighborhood.
What
Golf Social Offers
Golf Social is a premium, 6,100-square-foot indoor facility designed for both serious golfers looking to sharpen their skills and social seekers looking for a vibrant night out. The venue boasts stateof-the-art Trackman simulators, allowing players to tee off on hundreds of legendary golf courses worldwide. Additionally, visitors can master their short game on a cutting-edge, 1,000-square-foot PuttView interactive putting green.
Beyond the greens, Golf Social serves as a premier entertainment hub. The facility features a fully stocked bar serving beer, wine, and seltzers, alongside a delicious menu of handcrafted sandwiches, salads, and more. With its spacious layout, it is the perfect venue for corporate events, birthday parties, and milestones.
Who is Involved & How It Started
The concept was born out of a shared passion for the sport. Golf Social was founded by Gary Patrick, Ferdinand Haag, and Matt Wirsing—three local golf enthusiasts who recognized a gap in the community. They envisioned a place where the local community could gather, practice, and socialize regardless of the weather outside.
“Golf Social was created to provide Clearwater residents with a high-tech, local indoor golf
center that blends top-tier athletic technology with a relaxed, social atmosphere.”
By combining cutting-edge technology with excellent hospitality, the founders have successfully created a welcoming environment where community, competition, and celebration seamlessly come together. Whether you are aiming to lower your handicap or host an unforgettable private event, Golf Social is Clearwater’s new go-to destination.
Our Father’s Day Special:
Buy a Golf Social gift card for $100 or more, and we’ll add a 25% bonus to it!
Spend $100 Get $125
Spend $200 Get $250
It’s the perfect all-in-one gift valid for simulator time, handcrafted sandwiches, seltzers, wine, and beer. Purchase a card by going to www.golfsocialfl.com and clicking on the Father’s Day Gift card button, or swing by the facility at 23250 US HWY 19N, Clearwater, to pick up a physical card!
The Club at Olde Cypress Unveils Greenside Grille
The Club at Olde Cypress has completed the final phase of its highly anticipated clubhouse renovation with the debut of the Greenside Grille, a vibrant new dining and social hub that brings the entire project to life.
By day, the space captures the essence of why so many residents flock to the area: a round of golf followed by a relaxed gathering over a cold beverage in a sports bar setting. It’s a place where members can unwind in an environment that feels both familiar and elevated.
As the sun sets, the Greenside Grille transforms into a lively yet approachable destination.
Members enjoy casual dinners in a resort-style atmosphere enhanced by live music, dancing, and an easygoing social vibe. The trendy design blends sophistication with comfort, creating a space that is as stylish as it is inviting.
“This area is truly the heartbeat of the club,” said Jerrod Tumbleson, general manager of The Club at Olde Cypress. “It’s where the Olde Cypress lifestyle comes together, from golf to dining to social connection. The Greenside Grille has elevated the member experience and has become the gathering place where members feel at home.”
The outdoor setting has become a standout feature,
offering soft seating and fire pits, covered dining, and an open-air atmosphere. The result is a social space that reflects both the energy and elegance of Naples living.
With the completion of the Greenside Grille, The Club at Olde Cypress has fully realized its vision for a modernized clubhouse, one that enhances everyday experiences while strengthening the sense of community among its members.
For more information about The Club at Olde Cypress, contact Melissa Hansen, Director of Membership and Marketing at mhansen@oldecypress.com or visit www.OldeCypress.com
Mordisco Steakhouse Brings Its Celebrated Venezuelan and Caribbean Wood-Fired Cuisine to Orlando’s International Drive
This Father’s Day, let Dad skip the backyard grill and leave the fire cooking to Mordisco Steakhouse on International Drive. The popular new Miami-born VenezuelanCaribbean steakhouse is serving up an elevated Father’s Day experience featuring premium cuts slowly roasted over open wood embers and shareable wood-fired parrillas. Dad can indulge in the “Best of the Best” Parrilla, which includes tenderloin, flap meat, picanha, pork belly, and homemade artisan sausage with shareable sides. Pair these with handcrafted cocktails and a lively indoor-outdoor atmosphere perfect for celebrating with family. Whether local or visiting Orlando for the weekend, guests can treat Dad to a bold, fire-driven dining experience that goes far beyond the traditional steakhouse dinner.
and modern industrial design into one unforgettable destination.
At the heart of Mordisco is a concept rooted in connection. The name “Mordisco,” meaning “bite” in Spanish, was inspired by the idea that the very first bite is where the magic begins, a moment when flavors surprise, senses awaken, and lasting memories are created.
Curated by Corporate Chef and Sommelier Cesar Gonzalez, Mordisco’s menu pays tribute to Venezuelan and Caribbean culinary traditions while incorporating contemporary techniques and globally inspired touches. At the heart of the experience is the restaurant’s signature Carne en Vara — a time-honored Venezuelan method of slowly roasting premium meats over open wood embers to create the bold, smoky flavors and exceptional tenderness
Already a favorite in South Florida’s dining scene with its flagship location in Doral, Mordisco has quickly established itself as one of Orlando’s newest dining hotspots since opening on May 19, welcoming more than 18,900 guests within its first 30 days of opening. The Latin-Caribbean steakhouse now brings its immersive culinary experience to Orlando with a sophisticated yet approachable restaurant that blends fire-driven cooking, elevated hospitality, handcrafted cocktails,
that define Mordisco’s cuisine. In its first month alone, the restaurant served more than 6,800 pounds of wood-fired Prime meats.
Mordisco Steakhouse is now open daily: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m., Friday –Saturday: 11:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m., and Sunday: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Address: 11030 International Dr Orlando, FL 32821. Phone: (407) 2860031. Reservations are available through OpenTable. Website: https://mordiscoorlando.com/
Caribbean Seafood Soup - Fosforera
Chief Asador
Seminole Legacy Golf Club Hosts 2026 NCAA Regional
Seminole Legacy Golf Club recently hosted the 2026 NCAA Tallahassee Women’s Golf Regional from May 11-13, solidifying its status as a premier collegiate golf venue. The Florida State women’s golf team leveraged their home course advantage to secure a second-place finish, marking their 10th consecutive trip to the NCAA Championships, played May 22-27 in Carlsbad, California. At the NCAA Championships, the Seminoles finished tied for 23rd overall.
“Hosting the NCAA Regional is a testament to our club’s commitment to providing a championship-caliber venue,” said Seminole Legacy Golf Club General Manager Jaxon Hardy. “We are proud to support the Florida State golf teams and celebrate their continued success on the national stage.”
The 2026 Women’s Regionals marked the fourth time that Seminole Legacy Golf Club has hosted NCAA Regionals. The Florida State University-owned club has hosted the 2025 NCAA Tallahassee Men’s Golf Regional, the 2022 NCAA Women’s Division
I Regional Championship, and the 2021 NCAA Men’s Regional. Seminole Legacy Golf Club, recognized as one of the ‘Top 30 Golf Courses’ in Florida by GOLF. com, underwent a $10 million renovation in 2020 led by the Nicklaus Design Company. The comprehensive redesign included a complete overhaul of the course, with only one hole remaining from the original layout. The updated course spans 174 acres, measures 7,800 yards, and features two practice ranges and a new 12-hole par-3 course for the university’s golf teams. Originally designed by Bill Amick and opened in 1962 as the Don Veller Seminole Golf Course, the club has long served as the home for Florida State University’s men’s and women’s golf teams. The 2020 renovation enhanced the facility’s reputation, making it a sought-after venue for prestigious tournaments such as the NCAA Regional.
Troon Privé, the private club operations division of Troon, manages Seminole Legacy Golf Club. For information on Seminole Legacy, visit www. seminolelegacygolfclub.com.
South Florida PGA Foundation Awards $30,000 Scholarships to Natalia Conte and Maria Serrano
The South Florida PGA Foundation has awarded two $30,000 scholarships to Natalia Conte of Coral Springs and Maria Serrano of Miami as the 2026 SFPGA Foundation Scholarship recipients.
Now in its tenth year, a combined $60,000 are given out annually to support South Florida youth with their higher education. The South Florida PGA Foundation Scholarship is a merit-based award created to assist individuals with ties to the South Florida PGA Foundation and to recognize leaders in the local community.
Natalia Conte
Conte recently graduated from Coral Springs Charter School in Broward County. During her high school career, she was President of the National Honor Society and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, while competing on the varsity golf and flag football teams.
Conte shares a passion for journalism and photography which has given her the opportunity to capture the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club and the ANNIKA Pro-Am at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida. She also involved herself with the school’s broadcast program, serving as associate producer and coanchor for CTV2. In this role, she worked on broadcasts such as “Spotlight,” collaborating with the City of Coral Springs Marketing team to cover local events.
This fall, Conte will attend Ave Maria University studying Communications & Theology, with plans to work as a photographer on mission trips.
“This will help me share the love I have for helping others, as well as the love I have for journalism,” said Conte. “There is so much power in pictures, and knowing that I have the ability to bring awareness to things going on around the world is such a blessing.”
Conte comes from a family with deep roots in the game of
golf and the PGA Professional community. She is the daughter of Stephen Conte, PGA, Director of Instruction at Conte’s Golf Academy in Pompano Beach, Florida, and a dedicated South Florida PGA Member since 1995. Her mother, Michele Conte, is also a golf professional and proud LPGA Member, further reflecting the family’s lifelong commitment to the sport. Natalia’s passion for golf and service is also inspired by her late grandfather, John Conte, who was also a PGA Professional.
“We are all so happy for Natalia, as she is the glue that holds our family together with her loving and generous heart,” Stephen Conte stated. “She helps us to keep things in proper perspective and makes the simplest things in life great joy.”
Regarding her academic future, Conte added, “This scholarship will help me achieve my career goals by providing me with a balanced environment of the highest education, service opportunities, and the training and experience needed to pursue my life and career aspirations.”
Maria Serrano
Serrano graduated from Pinecrest Glades Academy in Miami, is an active competitor on the SFPGA Junior Tour, and works under John Moscoso, PGA, at the Trump Golf Academy of Miami. At the academy, Serrano coaches youth
players in group and individual settings. She also serves as the Social Media Manager for the academy, creating content and managing event promotions and marketing campaigns.
“Maria is a natural leader and someone who leads by example and with integrity,” Moscoso said.
As Serrano coached and interacted with families, she discovered how meaningful it is to work in an environment that is inspiring.
“Golf has become much more than a sport to me; it is the place where I found confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging,” Serrano said.
Serrano will attend St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, Florida, where she will be a member of the women’s golf team and study Sports Administration. Upon obtaining her undergraduate degree, she has aspirations of working for the LPGA Tour in hopes to inspire and support future generations of girls golf by creating opportunities for young players to grow both on and off the golf course.
“I want to continue giving back to the sport that changed my life and helped shape me into the person I am today,” Serrano explained.
The South Florida PGA Foundation will follow both recipients’ academic and professional progress in the years ahead.
Natalia Conte
Maria Serrano
Zack Potter wins the 2026 NFPGA Assistant Professional Championship; Zach Potter and Andrew Hammett, PGA qualify for the 2026 Assistant Professional Championship
Hosted at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate – National Course, the NFPGA Assistant Professional Championship included 36 holes of great golf and warm weather. In the end, Zach Potter needed one extra hole in a playoff to earn the victory.
Zach shot 68-70 for a 6-under par total, getting him into a threeway tie for first with Andrew Hammet, PGA and Michael Visacki. The playoff started on the 1st hole at the National Course, a straight away par 4 with two fairway bunkers and water bordering the right-hand side. The playoff didn’t take long as Zach hit three good shots to make birdie and claim the victory!
In addition to the win, Zach earned one of the two qualifying spots in the 2026 Assistant Professional Championship.
Joining Zach was Andrew Hammet, PGA. Andrew played two solid rounds, shooting 70-68 for a two-day total of 6-under. His second round included 6 birdies!
The 2026 Assistant Professional Championship will be hosted November 12th – 15th at the beautiful Wanamaker Course at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, FL. Best of luck to Zach and Andrew in November!
PGA HOPE Play Day at MacDill Air Force Base
On Saturday, April 25th, the Bay Palms Golf Complex at MacDill Air Force Base hosted an unforgettable North Florida PGA HOPE Play Day, bringing together a remarkable group of PGA HOPE Graduates for a day centered on connection, community, and the game of golf. With over 50 PGA HOPE graduates in attendance, the event truly embodied the
mission of PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), using golf as a vehicle to foster camaraderie and support among veterans and active-duty service members. The atmosphere throughout the day was defined by encouragement, laughter, and shared experiences. From the practice area to the final holes, participants connected not just as golfers, but as a community united by service and a passion for the game. Whether teammates met for the first time or familiar faces reconnected, the Play Day created meaningful moments that extended well beyond the scorecard. With more than 30 teams participating, the event showcased the continued growth and impact of PGA HOPE programming. The overwhelming turnout is a testament to the community’s strength and the value these events bring to participants.
The success of this Play Day reinforces the importance of creating opportunities for veterans to come together in a welcoming and supportive environment. We are grateful to everyone who participated and helped make the day so meaningful.
2026 NFPGA Assistant Professional Championship Winner - Zach Potter
Show Your TurfLove!
Love the game? Live on the field? Our TurfLife gear is more than cool style – it’s your way to support the unsung heroes of all pitches and greens, and show your passion for sustainable sports turf.
Ready to join the TurfLife crew?
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History Repeats: Luke James Prevails in Playoff at 2026 Yamaha Atlanta Open
By Sloan Aubrey
Luke James secured his second Yamaha Atlanta Open presented by Audi Atlanta victory in three years at Pinetree Country Club on Tuesday. James, the 2024 champion and PGA Professional at Jennings Mill Country Club, defeated Adam Cooper in a playoff on the par-5 18th hole to become the 14th player to win the tournament more than once.
James and Cooper, who battled each other in a six-hole playoff in the 2024 Yamaha Atlanta Open at The Standard Club, once again needed more than 36-holes to determine a winner after each finishing the competition at 5-under-par 139. Both players shot 72-67, surging
to the top of the leaderboard on day two after finishing Monday tied for 15th place.
Despite an even score after day one, James holed 12 birdies total in the tournament and sunk seven on Tuesday. The champion carried his hot play into the playoff with a birdie four to defeat Cooper on hole 18. James credited the identical 2024 scenario for preparing him for another high-pressure playoff.
“I’ve been in this position before. I have a lot of experience, which was definitely beneficial for me to do that. But yeah, I just grinded and kept my composure,” he said.
After a disappointing T-39 and 5-over-par finish at last year’s Yamaha Atlanta Open, James relishes his return to championship glory.
“Oh man, I feel great. It feels good to be back in the winner’s circle,” said James.
Despite past days of rainy weather, Pinetree offered impeccable conditions for the
tournament’s two-day contest. Pinetree Country Club Director of Golf and Georgia PGA At-Large Director Tyler Johnson expressed his club’s delight in hosting one of Georgia’s oldest golf tournaments.
“We’ve been really honored to host this 92nd version of the Atlanta Open. I know our members have been excited about this for months,” he said.
The 2026 Yamaha Atlanta Open marked Yamaha’s 30th year as title sponsor of the event, with its first sponsorship beginning in 1997. Richard Warren, Southeastern District Sales Manager at Yamaha Golf Car Company, described how meaningful the company’s relationship with this tournament and the Georgia PGA has been.
“We’re just very honored and privileged to be the title sponsornot only that, but the relationships that we have. I really want to thank the Georgia PGA section. We have a special relationship as well, and it’s a really exciting time of the year,” he said.
Luke James and Richard Warren from Yamaha
Luke James, 92nd Yamaha Atlanta Open Champion
A Turf Pirate's Journal
$ Rare Moments $ Agave Blooms at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson
Greetings Turf Pirates and welcome to the longest daylight day addition of A Turf Pirate’s Journal. Yes, that means that the first day of summer or the summer solstice is June 21st and that is a high holiday for the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates as we are able to be outside doing productive things under the sun for the longest total minutes of the year, so celebrate accordingly Turf Pirates. Now this month’s spin is a bit different as we celebrate tournament-golf and the often-unpredictable blooming of the Blue Agave. I was able to spend advance week and tournament week this year working with my Invited Agronomy brothers and sisters at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson PGA event at TPC Craig Ramch in McKinney, Texas. Craig Ranch was one of my first properties as a Regional with Invited Clubs and historians note that I also hosted the 2017 Byron Nelson at TPC Four Seasons in Las Colinas. Enough waxing let us get to it. This month’s main picture is of a recently transplanted Blue Agave in front of the CJ hospitality build-out at the Byron Nelson. The Agave decided to bloom right on time like an Azelea in Augusta just a lot rarer. Now this plant is a relative of our Tequila producing Agave and there are many Agave that are called Blue Agave by the common folks that may or may not be known scientifically accurately, as such. That does not matter what matters is that a plant that only blooms every five to ten years found the strength to bloom on stage and me as a seeker of such things was there
to catch the moment and now share it with you. Will it be an inspiration to you? I certainly hope it will and that you will reflect on the odds of this alignment and realize that life is after-all what
we make of it and there are times when the universe just gets things right. As Master Gardeners we strive to see the order of things and work towards horticultural excellence and appreciate the craft as we see the results.
If you have done tournament golf, then you know the agronomy folks have poured over 100 hours a week into the craft for the last few weeks and that TPC Craig Ranch went through a major renovation and that the course is less than one year old and she will mature a lot over the next few years, but she is pretty special right now. What I am reminded of Turf Pirates is that when great sacrifice is shared it makes for memories and bonds that are very deep. I did my first televised golf event in 1986 and now that I am in my 60’s I am blessed to have done one more with a great team and work with my old friend Mike Crawford, Tour Agronomist for the Byron Nelson (see photo, and yes Mike is really tall). Congratulations to Tyson Thill, GCS, and his team at TPC Craig Ranch and thanks to our leader, Jay Abbott, SVP of Agronomy for organizing the chaos and letting us lend a hand and build the memories. The moral for this month Turf Pirates is to look around for experiences and opportunities that will make you and those around you better and be sure to be at your best. Timing is everything so much like the Blue Agave be sure to bloom your best and brightest when the stage is the biggest. Be sure to tune in next month Turf Pirates as we reveal the first pictures of the new Galactic Headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates!
Blue Agave in Bloom in front of the CJ Hospitality Tent at the Nelson
Anthony Williams and Mike Crawford, Tour Agronomist at the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
In 2026, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America proudly marks 100 years of innovation, dedication, and growth for the golf course management industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the industry, our journey has been one of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our members.
COLONEL JOHN MORLEY
CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN
Donor Wall Plaque
To support the Colonel John Morley Centennial Campaign, please donate to receive your personalized plaque on the plaza at GCSAA Headquarters.
Scan to donate, or call (800) 472-7878.
$500 LEVEL
WALL PLAQUE with three lines of text and front entrance placement at GCSAA headquarters
GCSAA
HAT AND GOLF BALL
REPLICA PLAQUE
As we reflect on the past century, we are filled with gratitude for the incredibly loyal members, valued allied and industry partnerships, and talented team members who have helped shape our success. We have always been driven by a single mission:
“Dedicated to serving our members, advancing their profession, and improving communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf.”
And we are just getting started!
Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement as we look back on a century of milestones and forward to the exciting possibilities ahead. Together, we have built something extraordinary — and the next 100 years are sure to be even more remarkable.
The GCSAA Foundation has embarked on a Centennial fundraising campaign to establish a new endowment honoring GCSAA’s founder, Colonel John Morley, with a goal of raising $1 million to fund new and innovative initiatives for the next 100 years. Please consider supporting the Foundation in its mission to ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry.
$300 LEVEL
WALL PLAQUE with three lines of text and premium wall placement at GCSAA headquarters
Partners is proud to announce the recipients of its inaugural 2026 Turfgrass Management Scholarship, an initiative designed to invest in the next generation of leaders in the golf course management industry. Selected from a competitive national pool of 32 applicants, this year’s scholarship recognizes three individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the profession, a willingness to learn, and the potential to lead in an evolving industry.
2026 Scholarship Recipients:
1st Place ($6,000): Taylor Posner
2nd Place ($2,000): Dionicio Azuara Jr.
3rd Place ($1,000): Gavin Wilson
Taylor Posner, a graduate of Syracuse University currently enrolled in Rutgers University’s Professional Golf Turf Management Program, earned top honors for her compelling journey into the industry. What began as a summer job quickly evolved into a clear career path, driven by curiosity, mentorship, and a growing understanding of the complexity behind golf course operations.
“I am fully committed to what I need to do in this industry. I’m on that path, and this is helping push me forward.”
Her story reflects a broader reality facing the industry: many of the most promising future leaders are not initially on a turf track, they are developed through exposure, hands-on experience,
and intentional guidance.
Second-place recipient Dionicio Azuara Jr., a student at Texas A&M University, brings a non-traditional entry point into the industry. Originally pursuing a degree in computer science, Azuara’s path shifted after gaining hands-on experience working on a golf course, an experience that ultimately led him to change direction and commit to turfgrass management. His application reflected both technical curiosity and a clear understanding of the discipline required to build a long-term career in the profession.
Third-place recipient Gavin Wilson, a student at Penn State University, began his journey in the game as a caddy before developing a deeper interest in the broader landscape of golf operations. Now focused on a future in golf course construction and design, Wilson demonstrated early leadership potential and a thoughtful, forward-looking approach to his development. His submission highlighted both respect for the craft and an awareness of the long-term impact of wellexecuted golf course design.
Applicants were required to submit an essay outlining a defining moment that shaped their perspective on the turf industry, along with two letters of recommendation. Submissions were evaluated based on industry
commitment, leadership potential, and alignment with the future needs of golf course management.
“This scholarship is about paying it back,” said Tyler Bloom, Owner and Founder of Bloom Golf Partners. “The future of the golf industry depends on identifying, developing, and supporting individuals who are serious about the craft, the science, and the leadership required to sustain it.”
The scholarship program reflects Bloom Golf Partners’ broader mission to modernize how the golf industry attracts, develops, and retains talent. As workforce challenges continue to impact clubs nationwide, initiatives like this are designed to strengthen the talent pipeline and raise the standard of leadership across the industry.
In addition to financial support, the first-place recipient will also receive travel and accommodations to attend the 2027 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, providing direct exposure to industry leaders and continued professional development opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Bloom Golf Partners will release details for the next round of scholarship applications in Fall 2026, available at https:// bloomgolfpartners.com/ scholarship-program/. Aspiring turf professionals, students, and earlycareer individuals are encouraged to begin preparing now and engage with the industry intentionally. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bloomgolfpartners.com/ subscribe-here/ to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Talyor Posner
Dionicio Azuara Jr.
Gavin Wilson
Beyond Tournament Week at Bay Hill
By Cecilia Johnson
Since 2014, Chris Flynn has served as Director of Grounds at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, one of golf’s most recognizable family-run properties. Growing up around the game, both his father and grandfather worked as golf course superintendents, and Flynn spent much of his childhood on New York golf courses learning the business firsthand.
He was also raised around major golf events, including the Buick Classic at Westchester Country Club, where he first learned about tournament preparation.
Along with that upbringing, Flynn studied plant science, recreation management, environmental science and construction management before building experience
at several high-profile clubs and tournaments, including TPC Sawgrass and the Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
After years in the industry, Flynn learned that a prerequisite meeting before being hired at Bay Hill Club & Lodge would take place inside Arnold Palmer’s home. Arriving on a Saturday to meet Palmer for the first time, he wasn’t sure what to expect.
“I walked in the house into the living room and literally his entire family was all there, his daughter, all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was a family gathering. Mr. Palmer was sitting on the couch with his newest great grandchild, who was his first time meeting the baby, and he had the baby in his lap. They sat me down next
to him on the couch, and that’s how we had our conversation.”
Palmer’s younger daughter, Amy Saunders, who now owns and operates Bay Hill, was also there that day. Flynn said Palmer was every bit the family man he was portrayed to be and admires how Saunders and her husband, Roy, have continued that atmosphere while living on the site yearround and remaining heavily involved in operations at both Bay Hill and Latrobe Country Club in Pennsylvania, where Palmer was born and raised. “That’s how they do things. It’s a family business and it’s special,” he said.
Built in the early 1960s, Bay Hill spans more than 400 acres, including golf, lodging and a marina with 100 member boats leading into the Butler Chain
Chris Flynn overlooks Bay Hill, home of the Arnold Palmer Invitational
of Lakes. Palmer purchased the property after falling in love with the course and helped establish Bay Hill as a PGA TOUR stop through the Citrus Open, now known as the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Today, Flynn manages a 40-person grounds team with many employees having worked at Bay Hill for decades. “We have a great team, and it’s just a great place to work in such a family-oriented atmosphere. In some ways, we are really a mom-and-pop operation. It’s the most opposite you could get from a corporate-type atmosphere or stuffy private country club.”
Work Behind Tournament Conditions
Most golf fans know Bay Hill through one week each March when the PGA TOUR arrives for the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Television coverage focuses on firm greens, demanding rough and one of the more recognizable tournament setups in professional golf. What viewers rarely see is
the constant preparation required to maintain those conditions across the club’s 27 holes, which goes on throughout the year.
Preparations for tournament season begin long before grandstands arrive.
The team performs aggressive verticutting once annually in June, then dials back moisture in October ahead of overseeding in mid-November. From then through March, the course shifts fully into tournament preparation mode.
PGA TOUR players are highly aware of turfgrass differences and how playing conditions change depending on grass type. “Even with rough, if you have a really tall bermuda versus tall ryegrass, that’s a whole different ballgame.”
That attention to detail helped shape Bay Hill’s 2016 no-till conversion to Celebration® Bermudagrass on tees, fairways, approaches and collars. After consulting with PGA TOUR agronomists, Celebration quickly emerged as the preferred choice,
a variety now used at more than 8 PGA TOUR stops.
“It was really a short process in landing on Celebration,” Flynn explained. “Taking everything into account — the wear tolerance and transition — Celebration was kind of a no-brainer for us and it has met every expectation. It’s been a homerun for us.”
Despite tournament pressure and constant play, the course rarely requires large-scale resodding after the event. Most repairs come from vehicle traffic associated with tournament infrastructure rather than spectator wear. He credits part of that durability to Celebration Bermudagrass along with dependable support from Sod Solutions Professionals, a company that assists Bay Hill with sourcing and delivering consistent, highquality sod products within narrow maintenance and repair windows.
“We’ve gotten tremendous service. With sod, you’re utilizing something that you’re so dependent on and from a timeliness standpoint,
Sod replacement work on a bunker and lake edge at Bay Hill Club & Lodge
you’re doing projects, you need it and things happen last minute. That’s huge having somebody there that can support you.”
Inside the Ropes at Bay Hill
In 2025, during filming for Celebration on Tour, a video series highlighting Celebration Bermudagrass at PGA TOUR stops, Flynn drove through Bay Hill discussing maintenance and tournament strategy.
Summer months shift his crew’s focus toward renovation projects across Bay Hill, and as he stopped at the 11th hole, Flynn pointed out where they removed a front greenside bunker due to its proximity to a tree. “We decided to remove it, and it probably makes the hole play easier. But 11 is a very difficult hole,” Flynn said with a laugh. “For handicappers, it makes them very happy. Not many golfers complain about one less bunker on the golf course.”
At the par-four 15th, he described it as a “sweeper hole,” one that ranks among the most difficult holes because tee shots struggle to hold the fairway. “This is a hole they should go down a club. But they take out the driver because the whole landing area slopes away.
They can’t keep their ball in the fairway and getting to the green becomes a problem,” Flynn shared.
Bay Hill’s closing stretch remains one of the more recognizable finishes on the PGA TOUR schedule, with the extremely short par-five 16th followed by the narrow par-three 17th stretching beyond 200 yards.
Members often play many of the same pin locations used during the Arnold Palmer Invitational, although TOUR officials rotate placements from year to year. The only recurring exception is the 18th green, where the pin is traditionally on the far right. The finishing hole demands precision off the tee toward one of the narrowest landing areas on the course.
This spring, Flynn and Bay Hill were featured in the Celebration on Tour video series, offering a behindthe-scenes look at the preparation, maintenance and people responsible for PGA TOUR stops using Celebration Bermudagrass. Nearly a decade after Bay Hill’s conversion, the variety continues to perform well under heavy member play and Florida stress.
For Flynn, the job is not about preparing for a single week
each March. It’s about creating consistent conditions yearround while continuing the culture and environment Palmer established decades ago.
Go behind the scenes at Bay Hill and watch Episode 3 of Celebration on Tour on YouTube: https://youtu.be yMJcLz9xyfs?si=8BfKapW17Db3yq3
If you’re considering a grass that the PGA TOUR trusts, visit CelebrationBermudagrass.com
Chris Flynn drives through Bay Hill during filming for the Celebration on Tour video series
FOR ALL GOLF IS AND ALL IT CAN BE
GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans to conclude nearly two decades of leadership in 2027
Chief Executive Officer
Rhett Evans will conclude his tenure as CEO of the Golf Course Superintendents Associationof America (GCSAA) effective Sept. 29, 2027, following nearly two decades of leadership and service to the association and the golf course management profession.
Evans will continue serving fully as CEO throughout the transition period, providing organizational leadership, strategic oversight, and direction for the association’s ongoing initiatives, member programs and industry partnerships.
During his tenure, Evans helped guide GCSAA through a period of growth and expanded influence across the golf industry, including strengthened partnerships, enhanced advocacy efforts, increased member engagement, educational and career development initiatives, and continued leadership in environmental stewardship.
The transition timeline was developed collaboratively between Evans and the GCSAA Board of Directors to provide ample time for a thoughtful and strategic leadership succession process while maintaining continuity across the association, its membership and the broader golf industry.
“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this association, its members and the golf course management profession,” Evans said. “I care deeply about GCSAA, the people within this organization and the golf industry as a whole. GCSAA has an incredibly bright future, and because the association is operating from such a strong position today, this is the right time to begin a thoughtful and wellplanned leadership transition.”
Working alongside GCSAA members, volunteer leaders and staff, the association has continued to elevate its visibility, influence and reputation throughout the golf industry and the communities it serves.
“Rhett has led this association as CEO with vision, passion and integrity for many years,” said GCSAA President Paul L. Carter, CGCS. “As the longest-tenured
CEO in GCSAA’s 100-year history, his impact on the association, our members and the profession has been significant. He will certainly be missed in this role. We also have a number of important initiatives underway, including the completion of GCSAA’s Centennial year and several long-term strategic priorities that Rhett will continue to lead during this transition period. This timeline gives the organization the ability to approach the future thoughtfully while continuing to build on the momentum GCSAA has established.”
During the transition period, Evans will maintain his regular travel schedule, industry engagement, leadership responsibilities, and ongoing work on behalf of the association while also working closely with the GCSAA Board of Directors
to help ensure a smooth and successful leadership transition.
“GCSAA has meant a tremendous amount to me and my family and will always hold a special place in my life and career,” Evans said. “While this transition represents the closing of one chapter, I am excited about the next chapter ahead and future opportunities to lead, encourage, and help make a positive difference in the lives of others. It has been an incredible run, and I look forward to continuing to serve GCSAA over the next year and finishing strong.”
Additional details regarding the succession process and future leadership decisions will be shared at a later date.
Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.
CHANGING LIVES
THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF
Patriot Golf Day® has become the largest grass-roots golf fundraiser in America – a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the USGA, Patriot Golf Day enlists the support of public and private golf facilities across the country. Funds support Folds of Honor, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of service members killed or disabled while serving in America’s Armed Forces.
Although the national promotion of Patriot Golf Day is over Labor Day weekend, you can play golf any time of the year to support the families of our fallen and disabled service members. Here are a few ways to get involved.
