The Masters Signals Spring & Golf Season FRED ALTVATER PUBLISHER Back 9 Media Group Also Publishes: Michigan Golf Journal Ohio Golf Journal Indiana Golf Journal Back 9 Report Welcome to the second issue of American Golf Journal. In the northern climes, The Masters signals the onset of Spring and golf season. The green fairways and beautiful flowers in full bloom, on the big screen, always gets any golfer’s heart pounding. It’s not all Pimento Cheese Sandwiches and Green Jackets at The Masters. We love this event and have devoted several pages to the major championship. Read about some of the unique names and historic spots around the Augusta National. We know you will enjoy the coverage on CBS. With all of the chaos in men’s professional golf, many are calling for the firing of PGA Tour Commissioner, Jay Monahan. We wonder if he is really the ‘bad guy’ here? Len Ziehm takes us to Jekyll Island, a quiet, relaxed destination off the Georgia Coast and Jon Glozek has a beautiful tribute to Sea Pines on Hilton Head. Ed Travis explains how SQAIRZ Golf Shoes provides a stronger base for you golf swing and will lower your scores. We hope you enjoy this issue of American Golf Journal and I will see you on the Back 9 real soon. American Golf Journal
American Golf Journal is Published By Back 9 Media Group Publisher: Fred Altvater, USGTF Teaching Professional Advertise with American Golf Journal, Contact us for more information Be sure to take advantage of the links to social media, videos and other content provided within the articles 24 FIND INSIDE 06 12 22 32 The Masters: “A Tradition Unlike Any Other” Even The Masters Can’t Control The LIV Golf News Is Jay Monahan Really The Bad Guy Here? 15 Year Old Amateur Golfer Receives NIL Deal Jekyll Transformation Honors Rich History 06 12 22 18 32 24 SQAIRZ Golf Shoes Will Improve Your Game Sea Pines Resort Is More Than You Can Imagine 30 35 Our Favorite Videos Our Contributors 51 50 American Golf Journal
The great thing about The Masters golf tournament is that you really don’t have to like golf to really enjoy watching it. This historic piece of eastern Georgia real estate contains an element of class and prestige that permeates the atmosphere at the Augusta National Golf Club. That feeling begins as soon as you tune into the broadcast, or when you park your car and start walking toward the club. The Masters is truly in a class by itself when compared to caddies, patrons, media, Augusta National’s membership, official sponsors, AT&T, IBM, and Mercedes Benz, plus the CBS/ESPN broadcast crews pay extra special attention. Perhaps, that’s because more than one television announcer has been banned from any future Masters telecasts, for saying the wrong thing. Receiving an invitation to play at Augusta National, or in The Masters is one of the most coveted invites in sports. Here are a number of facts about The Masters, which help make this event stand out from other events, not just in golf, but in all of sports. 1) Dinner Reservations. Winners of The Masters each year have a standing dinner reservation on Sunday night with the members of the club inside the Augusta National Golf Club. The meal starts soon after the awarding of The Masters Tournament: Truly Second-To-None other high-profile special events like, the Super Bowl, the World Series, the Olympic Games, a World Cup final, the Academy Awards, or a presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. Those events are ‘bucketlist’ items to attend for millions of people, The Masters is perched on a different level. Simply put, it’s second-to-none, ‘a cut above the rest’ and as CBS’ Jim Nantz states, ‘it is a tradition unlike any other.’ Everyone knows that The Masters is different, the players, By Mike May American Golf Journal
the Green Jacket, upon the conclusion of the tournament. 2) Sleepover Special. While it’s well known that amateurs who play in The Masters each year are invited to stay in the Crow’s Nest, which sits at the tip-top of the Augusta National clubhouse, many people would be surprised that it sleeps five and is 1,200 square feet of living space. 3) Trophy Time. The permanent Masters trophy weighs 100 pounds and features the names of the annual winner, plus the runner-up. In addition to the Green Jacket, the winner of The Masters receives a replica of the real trophy and a gold medal, both of which he is allowed to take home. The permanent Masters Trophy was built in England and features 900 separate pieces of silver. 4) The Clubhouse. The Augusta National clubhouse predates the building of the golf course as it was originally a private home built in 1854. though it was originally called Cherokee Rose, and concludes with Holly (the 18th hole). 7) Arnie’s Plaque. On April 4, 1995, a bronze plaque, in honor of Arnold Palmer’s play and contributions as the first four-time winner of The Masters, was unveiled. The plaque is affixed to the water fountain which sits behind the 16th tee. 8) Jack’s Plaque. On April 7, 1998, a plaque, in honor of Jack Nicklaus’ play and contributions, as the only six-time Masters champion, was unveiled. The plaque is affixed to a drinking fountain that sits between the 16th and 17th holes. 9) By Invitation Only. There are 19 different criteria which The Masters Committee uses to draft the list of players who are invited to play in The Masters each April. The Masters Committee, at its discretion, also invites 5) Keeping Up with the Jones’. In the first edition of The Masters, in 1934, then known as the Augusta National Invitation Tournament, Bobby Jones competed in the event, where he finished in a 13th place tie with Denny Shute and Walter Hagen. Jones’ 72hole score was +6, which was ten shots behind the inaugural winner, Horton Smith. 6) Naming Rights. The credit for the naming of each hole at the Augusta National Golf Club is given to Louis Alphonse Berckman, Bobby Jones, and Clifford Roberts, who adorned each hole with a plant for which it is named. The course starts with Tea Olive (the first hole),
the members wearing a green coat started in 1937. The jackets were purchased from the Brooks Uniform Company in New York City. Each Green Jacket is adorned with brass buttons with the logo of the Augusta National Golf Club. 12) Par 3 Tournament. The Par 3 Contest at The Masters was first held in 1960 and won by Sam Snead. To date, no player has ever won both the Par 3 Contest and The Masters in the same year. The course record is held by Jimmy Walker who recorded an eight-under-par round of 19 in 2016. 13) Winner Buys -- Next Year. On the Tuesday night of Masters week, all previous champions of The Masters gather for the Champions Dinner. The defending champion of The Masters selects the menu and hosts the dinner. The only non-winner to international players, not otherwise qualified. Previous winners of The Masters are normally invited to return and compete every year. 10) Who Is Rae? Rae’s Creek, which meanders through the course on the 11th, 12th, and 13th holes at Augusta National, is named after John Rae, who died in 1780. Rae’s house was the farthest fortress up the Savannah River from Fort Augusta. His house kept residents safe during Indian attacks when Fort Augusta was out of reach. 11) The Green Jacket. The tradition of awarding The Green Jacket to the winner of The Masters started in 1949, when Sam Snead won. The tradition of American Golf Journal
Both the Hogan and Nelson bridges were dedicated on the same day -- April 2, 1958. 16) Michelson’s Moment in Time. While on his way to winning his third Masters title in 2010, Phil Mickelson drove the ball through the 13th fairway and into the trees attend the dinner is the current chairman of the Augusta National Golf Club. This tradition started in 1952 with Ben Hogan. The meals have ranged from cheeseburgers, fries and a milkshake by Tiger Woods in 1998, elk and wild boar by Mike Weir in 2004, chicken panang curry by Vijah Singh in 2001 and Spanish seafood paella by Phil Mickelson in 2011. “You’re in a room amongst great players,” said Gary Player. “The ambiance of the whole place is remarkable. And, you hear so many stories. It’s something special.” 14) Dusk-to-Dawn Destination. For years, the premier accommodation option in Augusta has been the Partridge Inn, the grand dame of Augusta’s hotels. The P.I. Bar and Grill, the hotel’s famous restaurant, is the place to be and to be seen during Masters Week. 15) The Bridges Over Rae’s Creek. The Augusta National Golf Club has honored three golfers by naming bridges in their honor. The Sarazen bridge at the 15th green, was the first named for a former champion. It was dedicated on April 6, 1955, as a way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Gene Sarazen’s famous doubleeagle, “the Shot Heard Round the World,” at the 15th hole during the final round of the 1935 Masters, which Sarazen later won in a playoff against Craig Wood. The Hogan bridge crosses over Rae’s Creek, allowing players to reach the 12th green and is dedicated to two-time Masters champion Ben Hogan. The Nelson bridge crosses over Rae’s Creek, at the 13th green and is dedicated to twotime Masters champion Byron Nelson.
during the fourth round. Most players would have laid up short of Rae’s Creek, but Mickelson took his six iron and struck a perfect shot, from the pine straw, onto the green which he converted into a birdie four, which paved the way to his third Green Jacket. A commemorative plaque was placed on the spot, among the tall pines, at the 13th hole. One special part of The Masters tournament is the fact that it’s a reflection of golf’s global growth in the last 50 years, especially since 1980, when Seve Ballesteros became the tournament’s second non-American winner. The first, of course, was Gary Player, who prevailed on three occasions – 1961, 1974, and 1978. Since 1980, players from Germany (Bernhard Langer, twice, in 1985 and 1993), England (Nick Faldo, three times, in 1989, 1990, and 1996 and Danny Willett), Wales (Ian Woosnam), Scotland (Sandy Lyle), Argentina (Angel Cabrera), Canada (Mike Weir), Fiji (Vijah Singh), South Africa (Trevor Immelman and Charl Schwartzel), Spain (Ballesteros, again, in 1983, Jose Maria Olazabal, twice, in 1994 and 1999, Sergio Garcia, and Jon win the next Masters trivia contest. The Masters is truly ‘a cut above the rest,’ and ‘a tradition unlike any other.’ Rahm), Australia (Adam Scott), and Japan (Hideki Matsuyama) have won this event. Another note, only 17 players have won The Masters at least twice While so much attention is given to the winner, three players are tied with the most runner-up finishes, Hogan, Nicklaus, and Tom Weiskopf each finished in second place on four occasions. We hope you enjoy the 2024 Masters and that these few tidbits can help you American Golf Journal
Even The Masters Can’t Control The LIV The membership at Augusta National has been very good at controlling anything and everything that could distract from the pomp and circumstance of this annual rite of spring. Corporate signage is not allowed and they even dictate the timing of advertisements to the television networks that are broadcasting the event. The membership of Augusta National Golf Club is comprised of CEO’s, CFO’s and other leaders of corporate American, who are accustomed to controlling every aspect of their business and By Fred Altvater that mindset spills over the administration of the Masters tournament. This year the elephant in the room is the combination of LIV and PGA Tour players that are coming together for the first time this year. Fred Ridley, current Chairman of Augusta National and the Masters, can’t control who joins, or doesn’t join the LIV, but he does control who receives an invitation. Rory McIlroy has toned back his rhetoric, but a general chippiness is apparent among other American Golf Journal
players on both tours. The unpleasantness has continued both in media interviews, as well as on social media. The move by defending Masters champion, Jon Rahm to switch to the rival LIV has been an especially explosive topic in the golf world. Last year it was predicted that LIV players would not perform well at the Masters, due to their shorter schedule, 54-hole events and lack of competition against PGA Tour quality players. That prediction was never valid due to the fact that there are several major championship winners among the LIV membership namely, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cam Smith, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Martin Kaymer, Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel. Brooks Koepka, who always gets excited for the majors, led most of the way through the first three rounds of the Masters last year, but slipped in the final round on Sunday to let Jon Rahm pass him for the victory. Rahm was a member of the PGA Tour at the time. Koepka did come back to win the PGA Championship the next month. After the dust had settled on Sunday evening, at the Masters, Koepka and Mickelson finished tied for runner-up, behind Rahm, while Patrick Reed tied for fourth, giving LIV players three of the top six spots at the 2023 Masters. Even though the LIV Tour does not receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points and many of the top names on that tour are rapidly sliding down the world rankings, several LIV players will tee it up this year at the 2024 Masters. Top 50 in the OWGR is just one of several criteria to earn a Masters invitation, plus past winners are normally given an automatic invite. Past major championship winners like, Rahm, Johnson, Mickelson, Garcia, Reed and a few other LIV players have five-year exemptions into all
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four major championships, which includes the Masters. The LIV has split the loyalties of the players and it is unfortunate that we now only get to see the best players compete against one another on four occasions each year. Without OWGR points awarded to the LIV and as exemptions from winning previous majors expires, these opportunities will become even less rare. That is a huge loss for professional golf. The Masters can control a few special invitees and does have a tradition of inviting leading international players who are not otherwise qualified for the tournament. This year Chairman Ridley gave a special invitation to Joaquin Niemann, who qualified for the tournament in years past, before he switched to the LIV. Augusta National and The Masters can normally dictate everything that happens at the Masters Tournament, but they can’t mend the broken professional golf scene right now. They will still host The Masters and golf fans will still be amazed at the beauty and tradition of this annual harbinger of spring. Hopefully Augusta National and the other ruling bodies in golf, the USGA, the PGA and DP World Tour can find a solution to this rift in men’s professional game and get back to producing competitive golf featuring the biggest names and best players for golf fans to enjoy.
Is Jay Monahan Really the Bad Guy Here? Opinion By Fred Altvater American Golf Journal
PGA Commissioner, Jay Monahan seems to be the guy that everyone points to as incompetent during the recent LIV/PGA Tour impasse. But is he really? The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), led by Yasir Al-Rumayyan wanted to become financially involved with the PGA Tour to help offset negative publicity and world perception surrounding human rights issues, seemingly condoned by the Saudi government. Funded by quarterly profits of $40 billion, from the government-owned Aramco Oil, the PIF has invested in sporting events around the world to improve its image. When they wanted to put money into the PGA Tour, some control over how that money was spent. With visions of the falling twin towers and 9-11 still on everyone’s mind, PGA Tour officials did not see a partnership with the Saudi’s to be popular with golf fans. It could lead to negative press in this country and undermine the charitable efforts of the PGA Tour. The Saudi’s decided to start their own professional golf tour, the Commissioner Jay Monahan and the tour leadership told them, “Thanks, but no thanks.” When the Saudi’s originally met with PGA Tour, most of the questions asked by the tour were about Saudi human rights violations and their answers were not satisfactory to the PGA Tour brass and attorneys. The PIF wished to be supporting sponsor, not really take over, but be involved from a financial perspective. For anyone this would be a very scary business arrangement. You know the old saying, “He who has the gold rules.” In this case if the PIF put billions of dollars into the PGA Tour, you know they most certainly would want
LIV, led by Greg Norman and become direct competitors of the PGA Tour, in a fight to the death for control of professional golf. Greg Norman was the perfect person to lead the new start up. He was still stinging from a rebuke, by the PGA Tour, when he tried to start a new World Tour back in the 1980’s. Norman took to his new role like a duck to water and with no financial limits began luring the top talent on the PGA Tour with millions of dollars in guarantees. Phil Mickelson also became a pawn of the Saudi’s and helped Norman bring in more big names to the rival PIF. Other top names, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau joined Mickelson and jumped at the guaranteed money, leaving the PGA Tour. When a problem arises in large corporations, someone has to be the fall guy. Jay Monahan inherited a major problem, when the LIV came calling. If you were the leader of one of the most successful businesses in the world and someone with substantial past human rights violations wanted to jump in bed with you, How would you react? The PGA Tour had been on an endless string of successes dating back to 1968, when Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer led the split from the PGA of America and formed the PGA Tour. Deep-pocket Fortune 500 corporations were more than willing to sponsor tour events. Total purses for the tour continually grew annually, professionals had a full slate of tournaments in which to play and made millions. Why fix something that isn’t broken? Unless someone with unlimited funds decides to make you a deal you can’t refuse. Former PGA Tour Commissioners, Deane Beman and Tim Finchem successfully grew the PGA Tour, during their tenures. Monahan has been forced to deal first with the COVID pandemic and then with an invasion of not just another business takeover, but a foreign government’s deep pockets that is trying to destroy the PGA Tour. He may not be doing things the way golf fans, media, or even some of the PGA Tour membership want, but Jay Monahan should be commended for the fact that there is still a PGA Tour. Plus, he appears to have created a plan that will assure a place for professional golfers to earn a living for the foreseeable future. American Golf Journal
Golf News Gary Woodland Named Ben Hogan Award Winner The Golf Writers Association of America (GWAA) has named Gary Woodland as the Ben Hogan Award winner for 2024. Five Elected to USGA Executive Committee Andrew Biggadike, from New Jersey, David Dorton, from Atlanta, Virginia C. Drosos, of Dallas, David Leitch, Virginia and twotime U.S. Open Champion, Andy North were elected to serve on the USGA Executive Committee at the Association’s Annual Meeting, in Nashville. Additionally, Cathy Engelbert, of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, was elected to her second three-year term on the 15-person volunteer board that provides strategic and Woodland went from walking the lush fairways on the PGA Tour to an operating table to undergo surgery to remove a lesion on his brain. He has successfully recovered and returned to the tour this season. Woodland is a four-time winner on the PGA Tour and captured the 2019 U.S. Open title at Pebble Beach. The GWAA Ben Hogan award is annually given to a player who has continued to be active in golf despite a physical handicap or serious illness. Woodland will receive this award at the GWAA Annual Presentation Dinner held April 10 in Augusta. with extensive experience in the game of golf from both playing and administrative perspectives. They join a board tasked with guiding the organization’s efforts and initiatives for the good of the game, which includes unifying the golf community, showcasing the game’s best, governing without bias and advancing golf by creating a more inclusive and sustainable game. financial oversight as the Association’s policymaking and governance board. “I think I speak for the entire executive committee when I say that we are thrilled to welcome our newest members, whose careers and accomplishments speak for themselves,” said Fred Perpall, USGA President. “Their insights and experience will be incredibly valuable toward our mission to support this game for which we all share a deep passion.” The newly elected committee members represent a group of distinguished leaders American Golf Journal
Old Course Changes Tee Time Process You won’t see golfers camped out on the benches at St. Andrews in the early morning hours waiting for a chance to get onto the iconic course after the St. Andrews Trust announced that beginning in March there will be a new sign up procedure. Prospective singles, or twosomes must now register at either the pavilion beside the first tee at the Old Course, or at the St. Andrews Links Clubhouse between 9 AM and 5 PM the day before they wish to play. The Links Trust will then hold a lottery drawing to determine who will receive a tee time for the next day and notify the hopeful golfer via text of their good fortune. “We are excited to introduce the new digital solution for the Old Course Singles Daily Draw, which makes securing a tee time as a single golfer at the Home of Golf safer, more equitable and ultimately a more enjoyable experience,” said Neil Coulson, the Links Trust’s Chief Executive. “The significant growth in the number of golfers utilizing the singles queue in the past decade has been such that we felt it was impacting the customer experience and becoming increasingly challenging for our dedicated team to manage expectations.”
Jekyll Island Transformation Honors Rich History By Len Ziehm with Pictures by Joy Sarver American Golf Journal
Georgia State parks are impressive, but one in particular stands out, Jekyll Island is historic, plus it has a sparkling new look. There are only 600 residents on the entire island, located off the Georgia coastline, not too far from either Savannah, or Jacksonville. In addition to 63 holes of golf, Jekyll Island offers 22 miles of biking and hiking trails, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, the Summer Waves Water Park, The Wharf Restaurant, the enchanting Driftwood Beach, tennis, croquet and fishing, horse riding, a campground, plus a wide variety of lodging and gift shops, for retail therapy. What Jekyll is really all about, though, is history. The state recently invested $25 million renovation project to preserve those historic aspects. “There was a Master Plan put into effect 10-12 years ago,’’ said Kevin Baker, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Jekyll Island Club Resort. “That included a Convention Center and Beach Village, but it feels different here now because the majority of the big construction is done. A lot of things were completed last year and the Master Plan is pretty much
complete. Just little bits and pieces are still being upgraded.’’ The first residents included, J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, Vincent Astor, Joseph Pulitzer, William Vanderbilt and Marshall Field, when the Jekyll Club opened in 1888. It was considered “the richest, most exclusive and most inaccessible club in the world.’’ The island could only be accessed by boat, but electricity was available on the island before it became available to the rest of the country. Residents could design and build their own homes, or cottages. The variety of tastes and architectural looks added to the island’s beauty and mystique. There were originally 12 cottages and three of those were addressed in the most recent renovation. The biggest, the Crane Cottage, built in 1917, had 20 guest rooms and 17 baths. In the renovation it is a favorite for wedding parties, family reunions and corporate retreats. The San Souci Cottage, built in 1896 by J.P. Morgan, became the first condominium in the country and the first transcontinental phone call was made from Jekyll in 1915. More importantly, The Federal Reserve System was conceived in a secret meeting, among Jekyll’s rich and powerful, in 1907. The Great Depression signaled the club’s downfall and World War II sped up the process. Afraid that German submarines would invade the local waters, members sold their cottages, bringing an end to Jekyll’s “Club Era.’’ In 1948, Jekyll was declared a Georgia State Park. Old buildings were used by visitors, but the flavor of the good old days was missing until recently, when 200 guest room at the Jekyll Island Club were upgraded. American Golf Journal
“Every single guest room was completely renovated. More color was brought into the rooms. In the past everything was painted white. The exterior of the buildings hasn’t changed, but now the colors in the rooms really pop. We maintained the historic rooms. It was a modern take on history. It’s been more like a coastal eclectic look while honoring the past.’’ The rooms have all been tastefully updated. The Grand Dining Room was completely renovated and serves breakfast, as well as a delicious Sunday buffet. “By no means is it modern, but it’s very historic. That’s why people come here. Luxury and style were elevated to a level that it should be. The guest rooms are now at the level of comfort and style of the luxury hotels, but what makes us special is our history.’’ Tours are conducted daily beginning from the Mosaic Museum. While it is easy to drive around the island, bicycling, or walking is the preferred method of traversing the island. The historic Jekyll Island Hotel, or cottages are not the only accommodations available. Other lodging includes, Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Holiday Inn, plus Days Inn. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is an especially interesting attraction, and it is given extra
promotion with stuffed turtles in every guest room. Beach Village gives the island a major attraction apart from the Historic District. Located near the ocean, it features the Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar, plus retail shops and is an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll. One thing that you can’t miss are the magnificent trees. The one that stands out is a Plantation Oak estimated to be about 350 years old. Visitors also are amazed by the eerily twisted and gnarled trees on Driftwood Beach, easily one of the most distinct attractions on Jekyll. One quick note for pet lovers, Jekyll Island is very pet friendly. Most restaurants offer outside seating and dogs are welcome to join in your dining experience. To conclude, Jekyll Island has a unique history, but with the recent renovations it offers visitors a relaxed and modern vacation destination with everything a seasoned traveler could want. To book your next adventure to Jekyll Island visit GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com American Golf Journal
Three New SQAIRZ Performance-Based Golf Models for 2024 By Ed Travis SQAIRZ Golf Shoes squaretoe construction was first introduced at the 2020 PGA Show. Now just four years later the company has been one of the biggest success stories in the golf industry and are offering three new models for the 2024 golf season. They have even branched out into baseball shoes, worn by MLB players, plus a new Pickleball shoe, that will soon be finding their way onto pickleball courts near you. The wider shoe base and heel stabilizer construction provide improved balance and stability which are important keys in hitting better golf shots. Robert Winskowicz, SQAIRZ Founder and CEO, talked about the significance of the changes their technology has brought to the market. The idea for SQAIRZ golf shoes came from observing someone wearing square toed dress shoes at a driving range and was followed by extensive research in foot movement biomechanics and ground force reaction throughout the golf swing. The result is a patented square-toe design giving the wearer’s toes room to lie more naturally and comfortably, while creating a wider footprint. “SQAIRZ’s unique design broke the mold of traditional shoes to provide better balance and ground reaction force, resulting in increased swing speed and more consistent accuracy. Tour pros are winning while wearing SQAIRZ on tour, plus thousands of satisfied customers are playing the best rounds of their lives.” American Golf Journal
The new models are designed for 18-hole comfort, plus they are 100% waterproof. The outsole traction pattern was created using sophisticated artificial intelligence software programming with the nubs of varying heights located in a rotational pattern with Softspikes PIVIX cleats. The company says this creates remarkable traction having 290 points of contact with the ground and helping to create “optimal ground force production.” Wearers will also like the Sta-Put laces which have tiny nubs of silicone on each lace to assure a snug fit and do not come undone during your round. Each of the new models also has a breathable textured tongue and an external foot stabilizer running from the heel to the arch. In keeping with the goal of making golf shoes with the extra features golfers appreciate the new ProS2, Speed2 and Velo also have a removable compression foam footbed and side gussets around the tongue for complete protection from moisture or debris entering. The ProS2 retails for $199.97 in a choice of black, gray, white with black accents, or white with a blue accent. Speed2, priced at $179.97, is offered in five color combinations, while the Velo model, at $219.97, is available in either black/white, or blue/white combinations. All three of the new models will be available for preorder March 1, with shipment beginning March 14. If you are a serious golfer trying to gain any advantage on the course, try SQAIRZ performance-based golf shoes to create better balance and stability throughout your golf swing, then watch your handicap decrease.
Financial Investment Firm Signs NIL Deal With 15-Year-Old Amateur Golfer Junior Golf Transcend Capital Advisors has signed a multi-year Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) partnership with 15-yearold amateur golfer Miles Russell, currently ranked youngest-ever winner of the AJGA’s Rolex Junior Player of the Year Award in 2023, surpassing the record previously held by Tiger Woods for 32 years. No. 1 in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Boys rankings. Russell, from Jacksonville Beach, Florida, was the By Steve Pike American Golf Journal
Following an exemplary run on the Florida Junior Tour circuit, amassing 14 wins and 34 top-five finishes in 42 starts, Russell burst onto the national scene last year, when he won two AJGA Junior All-Star events – the TaylorMade TP5 Junior All-Star and Moon Golf Junior AllStar – by a combined 15 strokes. He was a member of Team USA at the 2023 Junior Ryder Cup in Rome, Italy, teaming up with fellow Team Transcend member Yana Wilson in foursome and fourball matches. become the youngest-ever champion in event history. Russell closed out his sensational year with a second-place finish at the South Beach International Amateur, including a course recordtying 10-under par round of 60 in his second round, finishing two shots behind fellow Team Transcend member, Ben James. The only amateur to advance to the final Monday qualifier for last week’s Puerto Rico Open, Russell fired a fiveunder par 67 and advanced to a playoff for the last qualifying spot, but fell just short in his effort to become one of the youngest players to qualify for a PGA TOUR event. Russell has emerged as one of the game’s most exciting young talents. At the beginning of August, he won the 2023 Junior PGA Championship, shooting 18-under par over four rounds, seven shots clear of his nearest competitor. A few weeks later, he followed up with a win at the Junior PLAYERS Championship to I am so excited to be a part of Team Transcend, said Russell. “Joining this team of exceptional amateur players is humbling and makes me want to work hard and get better every day. Thanks to Transcend’s support, I am able to pursue my golf dreams to the fullest and I couldn’t be more grateful for their belief in me.”
Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) financial arrangements are all the rage in college sports. It has been rumored that a Division I college football program is required to offer $3 million in NIL guarantees to sign a topnotch quarterback out of the transfer portal. It appears that amateur golfers are becoming attractive partners for large businesses, as well. In the previous story Miles Russell, a top-ranked 15-yearold amateur golfer from Florida, has signed an NIL Agreement with Transcend Capital Partners. Transcend has similar deals with other amateur golfers, but Russell is the youngest golfer they currently have under contract. The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) and the Amateur Golf Alliance (AGA) has had programs to cover expenses for deserving young amateur golfers for years, but the NIL aspect for amateur golfers is totally new. In the past the United States Golf Association (USGA) has stripped golfers of their amateur status for accepting financial rewards, or even expensive gifts. The answer to the question, Should a teenage amateur Opinion Should Teenage Amateur Golfers Receive NIL Money? By Fred Altvater golfer receive NIL compensation, is simple. It is now legal to do so and if someone wants to shell out money to a talented teenager, it would be irresponsible for a parent not to accept it. Competing in big-time amateur golf tournaments around the country is an expensive proposition and can be a hardship for many families. One only hopes that the young men and women that are receiving the NIL funds have families, or trusted advisors to help allocate the monies wisely and provide for future financial security. American Golf Journal
F E ATUR E By John Glozek, Jr. Photos: The Sea Pines Resort/Rob Tipton Sea Pines Resort So Much More Than I Could Have Imagined Somehow I must have missed the memo. I certainly knew that the PGA TOUR has an event in Harbour Town at the Sea Pines Resort (the RBC Heritage the week after the Masters); what I didn’t know (and I’m not sure how I missed it) is just what an amazing golf destination this is. Within one hour of arriving at the Sea Pines Resort (staying at the INN) and taking a walk over to the Clubhouse and the Quarterdeck restaurant (which is located right at the lighthouse (you know the one you see on tv on the 18th hole), I was amazed not only how spectacular Sea Pines Resort is but that it has so much to offer. American Golf Journal
Let’s Begin With This From Long Island to Savannah, GA it is an easy two hour flight. Once you land it’s a smooth 50 minute ride basically on two roads — a quick stint on 95 for a few exits then head straight on over to the island. Options for staying on property include the beautiful Sea Pines Resort (The Inn & Club at Harbour Town) or a variety of options — luxurious private homes or beach and golf villas. Any of these are great options. The Inn is elegant and it’s right next to the Clubhouse. Staying at any of the other options is perfect for that group getaway or family. Some of the villas are even pet friendly so bring fido. This would be a good time to mention that the Sea Pines Resort property is massive — over 5,000 oceanfront acres. It’s big, quaint and luxurious all at the same time. It has five miles of a sandy beach shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean. American Golf Journal
Let’s Talk About Why You Are Here — GOLF The Sea Pines Resort offers plenty of golf options, even a par-3 course that is free to play. There are three world-class layouts to choose from ...
Designed by Pete Dye in 1969 with input from Jack Nicklaus as a consultant, it is the number one golf attraction on Hilton Head Island. It has been a PGA Tour stop for over 50 years. Full disclosure — while I was here I did not get to play it — I was there just days after aeration and that’s OK. I did get to ride the golf course with PGA Professional and Assistant at Sea Pines Mike Connelly. He shared with me all of nuances of the layout and the shotmaking it takes to work your way through the course. What I found most interesting about Harbour Town Golf Links is just how small all 18 greens are. The layout is fantastic — tee shoots are at a premium. Approach shots need to be well thought out. And the green complexes are smallest I’ve ever seen. I loved everything about this golf course. This strategic masterpiece will thrill you right from the first tee until you make it to the 18th green with the red and white candy stripped lighthouse in the background. Par: 71. Yardage: 7,099 to 5,084. Harbour Town Golf Links American Golf Journal
Full disclosure again, this time a little different. I did get to play here. Redesigned by Pete Dye in 2007, it is a must-play during your golf visit. It was in perfect condition from tee to green. What I liked most about it was it’s playability. You could see where you needed to hit your tee shots, you could see the green on every approach shot and the rolling greens complexes were perfect. I especially liked how the balls rolled out on the greens. They keep pace right to the hole. When in Hilton Head this should be one of the courses you should choose to play. Par: 72. Yardage: 7,053 to 5,151. Heron Point American Golf Journal
Full disclosure number three — I didn’t play this course and I didn’t tour the course, but here is what the resort material has to say. Redesigned by Davis Love III (2016), a total reconstruction of the first course on Hilton Head Island. Spacious, scenic corridors; water hazards; large, welcoming greens. Par: 72. Yardage: 7,010 to 4,947. Atlantic Dunes American Golf Journal
American Golf Journal
Beyond Golf… Oh and There’s Food… and More! Sea Pines Resort and the Hilton Head Island is also a great option for the non-golf vacation or to keep yourself entertained before or after a round. It’s seems like there is a restaurant everywhere you turn, from Low Country offerings to taverns and pubs, a chocolate shop, a Kilwin’s for ice cream, a fudge shop, a bakery, arts and craft shows and more. There are seven restaurants on the resort property alone. Like I mentioned early, there is plenty to do here — tennis courts, biking along it’s 15 miles of trail and even along the hard packed sandy beach, pickle ball, para-sailing, dinner cruises, comedy shows, a jazz club, a music festival, kayaking, a Comedy Magic Cabaret… did I leave anything out? Oh the fitness center and all of the pools throughout the property, horseback riding, wagon tours, and then, of course, there’s that lighthouse (you could even go up in it). Food-wise at the Resort you can enjoy fine and casual dining at an array of restaurants including the reimagined Quarterdeck, Links, an American Grill, Coast, Oceanfront Dining, Ocean Lounge, Fraser’s Tavern, Truffle’s, Harbourside and many more.
Golf Destinations Magazine 10 Since I mentioned that Sea Pines Resort has everything — everything you could possibly need for a fabulous golf experience. And I have more good news for you. There are plenty of places to indulge in fabulous food and a post round cocktail or sip of wine. And there are numerous day spa options for pampering around the island. Sea Pines Resort certainly can make for a fabulous all ladies golf getaway. Give it a try and let me know what think. LADIES, THIS IS Your Next Golf Trip
Above is what others are saying about Sea Pines Resort. I, too, cannot say enough about what a fantastic piece of property Sea Pines Resort is and what a great golf destination Sea Pines Resort and Hilton Head is. If you haven’t been there before, now is the time to go. If have been there before, it’s time to go again. Top 12 hotels in the country Inn & Club at Harbour Town - 2022 U.S. News & World Report – Best Hotels The Top 10 South Carolina Resort Hotels #5, 2021 Travel + Leisure World’s Best The Top 15 Resort Hotels in the South #11, 2020 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Top 200 Residential Golf Courses in the U.S. Heron Point #189 - 2021 - 2022 Golfweek’s Best Top 200 Resort Golf Courses in the U.S. Harbour Town Golf Links #21 | Heron Point T136 2021, 2022 Golfweek’s Best Editors’ Choice Best Golf Resorts In The Carolinas 2022 Golf Digest America's Second 100 Greatest Golf Courses Harbour Town Golf Links #142 2021-2022 Golf Digest American Golf Journal
Our Contributors This Month Ed Travis Steve Pike Ed Travis is a national award winning golf journalist and has had a lifelong love affair with the game. He has competed in tournament golf both as an amateur and as a senior professional and though his competitive days are behind him, he still plays regularly and carries a handicap of 2. https://www.facebook.com/ed.travis.98 Steve Pike is a multiple award-winning journalist and author. He has written for Golfweek, Golf World, The New York Times Magazine Group, Golf Digest and as a golf business writer for PGA.com. You can find more from Steve at Spike’s Peeks: The Art of Travel, as well as, Links Magazine, Hotelinteractive.com, Coastal Star Newspaper, NewEngland.golf and Golf-Hound.com Len Ziehm Len Ziehm spent 41 years as a golf columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. He now free lances golf travel pieces and posts for http:// lenziehmongolf.com/. Find Len on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lenziehmongolf/ John Glozek John Glozek, Jr. is the Vice President and CoFounder of Golfing Magazine, the Publisher of Golfing Magazine / New York edition and President of The International Network of Golf. He is also the author of the popular book, “BUSINESS GOLF - Your Key to Business Success Through Golf.” Learn more at: https:// nygolfmagazine.com/ American Golf Journal
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