Page 463 – African American Golfer's Digest

TROON ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH UBER

by Debert Cook February 3, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Troon,^®the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is excited to announce a new partnership with Uber, the innovative technology company known for seamlessly connecting riders to drivers through its mobile apps and evolving the way the world moves.

The partnership is set to launch in February during golf’s highest-attended professional tournament, the Waste Management Phoenix Open. There, Troon will serve as a title sponsor of the Uber Lounge where golf fans can participate in fun golf activities as they wait for their Uber rides. Further collaboration between the two influential brands is aimed at improving the overall golf experience for Troon customers and members with special Uber offers and promotions.

The partnership will also introduce new players to the game through creative messaging aimed at Uber customers.

“We are thrilled to partner with Uber,” said Ryan Walls, Troon’s senior vice president, operations, sales & marketing. “By collaborating together, we are able to enrich the experience of our customers and members while showcasing what makes both Troon and the game of golf unique to people we traditionally might not reach.”

As a part of the program, Uber will also conduct social giveaways for Troon customers and members, providing opportunities to win free rides. Uber users will have chances to win free golf, club rentals, and food and beverage offers. Likewise, Troon customers and members will also benefit from UberEvents services at participating Troon locations, making it easier than ever to get to and from the golf course.

“Uber is thrilled to partner with Troon to offer riders a world-class experience in our rider lounge during the Phoenix Open,” said Steve Thompson, Uber Arizona General Manager. “We look forward to facilitating safe and reliable rides throughout the tournament.”

February 3, 2016 0 comment

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Is it Time to More Fittingly Honor the Famed Caddies of Pinehurst?

by Debert Cook February 3, 2016

written by Debert Cook

African American caddies (men, women, boys and girls) have been part of the life and landscape of Pinehurst for 118 years, starting when 9 holes of golf were established in 1898, growing to 18 holes one year later. Jim Crow fostered it and the advent of Civil Rights saw it change to what it is today. As the former historian of the Pinehurst Golf and Country Club, I’d like the significant contributions to the game of golf by all caddies more fully recognized.

In 2001, Don Padgett, Pat Corso and Mike Granuzzo, owner of Caddiemaster, Inc., created the Pinehurst Caddie Hall of Fame with nine famous black and one white caddie inducted and honored at a formal dinner. The nominees were, “All outstanding citizens of the community and long-term contributors to Pinehurst’s caddie program.” The Hall of Fame was a good beginning, but no other caddie has been so honored in the past 15 years. It is high time to continue that noble tradition.

In 1933, Pinehurst Caddy Master Donald A. Currie reported that 550 caddies had been employed in the ’20s. Even during the Great Depression, Pinehurst engaged 190 caddies. Currie said, “They went out twice a day, with some carrying two bags. On good days they made $3.00 plus tips, but the average was between 75 cents and a dollar daily.” Caddies were fed palatable food at a minimum cost. They were examined, vaccinated, given medical treatment annually and checked for contagious diseases. Currie reported some pretty big names on the caddy roster, including, “George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, William McKinley, Martin Luther, Teddy Roosevelt, William H. Taft, Thomas Jefferson and Jesse James.”

Currie said they, “Banked their earnings in the local savings bank, but that many gambled, often betting 50 cents a hole, while the golfers might be betting only 10 cents a hole.” An important date was January 1, 1939, when the U.S. Golf Association ruled that not over 14 clubs were to be in a bag. Before then a golfer might carry 20 clubs, or more. It was a happy day for caddies, particularly the younger small ones.

The arrival of the golf cart hastened the end of caddying at most American golf courses. Carts were first tested here in 1947, becoming popular in the fifties. The tradition of providing top notch caddies to Pinehurst members and guests has remained in place. They are always available on Course No. 2, and can be reserved for the other courses.

The 2001 Hall of Fame black inductees were Fletcher Gaines, Robert “Hardrock” Robinson, Jimmy Steed, Teddy Marley, Robert Stafford, Hilton “Doctor” Rodgers, John T. “Barney Google” Daniel, Jack “Caddie Master” Williams, and Willie McRae. Jeff Ferguson is the lone Caucasian.

Only two of the honorees are alive, and remarkably both are still caddying.

Photo: Willie McRae, Courtesy of Tufts Archives and Donald McKenzie

Willie McRae, began his profession at age 10, in 1943, and still serves golfers, albeit he’s allowed to ride a cart on Course No. 2, the only person permitted to do so. Willie was enlisted in the 1951 Ryder Cup Matches for European team member, Fred Daley and was on the bag for North & South winner Gary Cowan in 1970.

Jeff Ferguson began his career in 1976 at age 17. Jeff helped Davis Love III win the 1984 North & South Amateur, joining the winners in an unprecedented 12 North & South Championships. He served in the 1994 U.S. Senior Open, the 1999 and 2005 U.S. Opens, and the 2015 Women’s U.S. Open.

Fletcher Gaines, starting in 1938 served for 57 years and was an accomplished golfer in his own right winning seven consecutive Caddie Championships and 10 victories overall.

Photo: Jeff Ferguson, Courtesy of Tufts Archives and Donald McKenzie

He carried Curtis Strange for back-to-back North & South championship wins in 1975 and 1976. “Hardrock” Robinson started in the mid-’20s and was famous for his tap dancing ability as a member of the original caddie band. He once carded a 64 on No. 1, and was featured in the 1927 film, “The Sun Sets In Pinehurst,” staring Gloria Swanson.

Jimmy Steed, who caddied for 30 years, was Sam Snead’s favorite caddie. He scored a hole-in-one in a Caddie Championship. Ted Marley, who first caddied here in 1937, gave Pinehurst 25 years of dedicated service before retiring in 2000. He caddied for Payne Stewart prior to the 1999 U.S. Open Championship. Robert Stafford started in 1934 and caddied for golf legends like Donald Ross and Sam Snead.

He retired in 2000 after 66 years, winning thousands of friends for Pinehurst. Hilton Rodgers began carrying in 1950, and gave Pinehurst 51 years of masterful caddying. Legend has it that he could read a putt from inside the clubhouse. John Daniel helped the remarkable Harvie Ward win the 1948 North & South Championship by one-putting 18 times over 36 holes to beat Frank Stranahan. Jack Williams was a congenial Caddie Master who died on duty during the final round of the 1955 North & South.

Richard Mandell, a prominent golf course architect has written, “Caddying to me provides so much to the experience of a golf round, especially at Pinehurst. Not just the aura that it creates but the ability to walk alongside someone with intimate knowledge of the golf course is so much better for one’s game than riding in a golf cart.”

At Pinehurst Country Club there are life-size bronze statues of famed course architect Donald Ross, former club president Richard Tufts, U.S. Open champion Payne Stewart, and late resort owner, Robert Dedman, Sr. looking over Course No. 2, its premier course. I’d like to see the resort and club members erect another bronze, this time to honor the thousands of dedicated caddies, black and white, men and women who’ve heightened the pleasures of the sport of golf here.

For golfers who would like to experience what it is like to play No. 2 with Willie McRae and Jeff Ferguson, please know that you can still do so.

Paul R. Dunn, author of Great Donald Ross Golf Courses You Can Play, lives in Pinehurst.
Pictured with statues of Golf Course Architect Donald Ross (left), and Richard Tufts (right), operator of Pinehurst Resorts.

February 3, 2016 0 comment

Blog Featured Blog News

Color Brave

by Debert Cook February 2, 2016

written by Debert Cook

February is Black History Month, as we all know. The shortest month of the year, yet (allegedly) our lone month to officially commemorate and celebrate the rich and important history of African American trailblazers and pioneers. Personally, I’ve never bought into that notion!

My belief is that these same trailblazers and pioneers are not only worthy of mention during February, Black History Month, but praiseworthy enough to be included full-time, and on a permanent basis as part of American history, and major contributors to society and the world we live in today. Unfortunately, these stories are typically not captured as part of American history through our public education systems, and seldom adequately captured in secondary and post-advanced levels of public education, either.

So, my monthly blog, this February 2016 will be longer than most, so as not to conform to the shortest month of the year to celebrate African American history, and an earnest attempt to bring perspective to a serious matter we are facing every day in America. The serious matter is that RACE MATTERS!

I’ll begin from a larger, worldly perspective, and funnel down to a smaller and less significant, yet deeply personal, perspective that includes golf, the common topic among this audience of readers and followers of the African American Golfers Digest.

On March 14, 2014, Mellody Hobson gave a sensational presentation on TED Talk.

The title of her speech was “Be Color Brave, Not Color Blind.” Mellody Hobson is a 46 year old, black female from Chicago, IL. She is an extraordinarily successful businesswoman who is currently the president of Ariel Investments, a financial management firm with over $10 billion in assets.

She was raised by a single mother, and went on to graduate from Princeton University prior to her stunning career as a financial investment guru and entrepreneur. She serves on numerous corporate board of directors, including Estee Lauder, Starbucks, and DreamWorks Animation. She is married to George Lucas, billionaire filmmaker, and creator of Star Wars.

Hobson’s list of clients and/or friends includes politicians, social activists, humanitarians, and entertainment celebrities such as Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Samuel Jackson, Harrison Ford, and many more.

The overriding message from her TED Talk was “maybe we should be a little less anxious, and a little more bold in our conversations about race.” She stated that “the first step to solving any problem is to not hide from it…and the first step to any form of action is awareness.” Hobson contends that too many people practice color blindness, as opposed to being color brave.

Color blindness, to her, means ignoring problems with race. Instead, she says we should be color brave, embracing diversity and seeking occasions to proactively have open and honest dialogue about our similarities and differences regarding race. She went on to say that most blacks in corporate American spend their days trying to be comfortable being uncomfortable, a state of being nobody asks for, but necessary to successfully navigate the environment where we are so dramatically outnumbered, and culturally excluded.

In May 2012, the African American Golfers Digest published a blog I submitted titled “Race Matters.” In the blog, I referenced Dr. Cornell West, the Princeton University professor and author of the book with the same title. In the book, Dr. West introduced a the notion of double-consciousness, a phrase he described as a world where Black-Americans struggle for self-consciousness, and often times are measured, and even (sometimes) measure themselves, through the eyes of the majority race. They live “betwixt and between the Black and White worlds – traversing the borders between them yet never settled in either…they crave peer acceptance in both, receive genuine approval from neither.”

In the blog, I likened my career in the golf industry to the double-consciousness and betwixt and between phrases used by Dr. West in his book. As a junior golfer, born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, I vividly recall being an outcast, of sorts, for playing competitive golf. I stood out like an oddball as a black contestant in all-white competitions. Interestingly, I also stood out as an oddball in my black neighborhood for the exact same reason…a black golfer in an all-white sport.

As my career path led me to the business of golf, I quickly learned it would be no different. Maybe even worse! Imagine constantly walking into an environment where you are the only person of color, not on one occasion, but on nearly every occasion. Talk about learning to be comfortable being uncomfortable.

In her TED Talk, Mellody Hobson stated that people would find it weird to walk into a board meeting with only black men sitting around the table. Yet, they become accustomed to walking into the board room with only white men. Nobody questions the weirdness of that, and Hobson contends that it won’t change until we intentionally strive to change the environment, and speak up when we observe that sort of environment.

Twenty-five years ago, in 1990, it was time to speak up. The world of golf was shamed into investigating and exploring ways to bring more diversity into the game and industry. The incident that catalyzed this was the upcoming PGA Championship, at Shoal Creek in Birmingham, AL. At the time, the private club had no black members, and their president said they wouldn’t be pressured into allowing one to join. The controversy spread like a brush fire, and discriminatory practices in golf escalated beyond sports pages, to front page news. Individuals and corporations spoke up, and programs designed to create diversity sprouted up throughout golf communities.

Fast forward to 2016, and it’s still time to speak up again! Economically, the sport of golf is soaring, as indicated in a recent Forbes Magazine article. The author wrote: “golf is a $68 billion industry with a total U.S. economic impact of $167.8 billion. Approximately 24.7 million people play the game, two million people are employed within the golf industry, earning $55.6 billion in annual wage income.”

Yet, the demographics of the golf industry has not changed. The industry reeks of white power and privilege, and the beneficiaries of this economic boom are void of a significant sector of America…specifically, females and people of color. Thus, I can’t refrain from speaking up!

My good friend, Pete McDaniel, spoke up in his recent blog that asked: “Where is the Diversity?” He asked the question after attending the annual PGA Merchandise Show, January 2016, in Orlando, FL. In the article, Pete was apologetic in having to constantly repeat and bring attention to the lack of diversity in the business of golf. I commented to Pete that I feel his pain, and I, too, feel ashamed (and annoyed) that I must continue to be one who makes it a point to bring attention to the lack of diversity in a sport that is rising in popularity, economic strength, and social capital at every level of the corporate environment and structure.

The blatant lack of diversity in golf is disheartening to me, a person of color whose life evolved from playing the game competitively, to becoming a student/teacher of the game, promoting the game, and earning my living from involvement in the game. The exposure to golf has provided lasting memories for me and my family, and I’d like to see more individuals of color (and females) have similar experiences. Diversifying the sport would not only be the right thing to do, it would be the smart thing to do, since the demographics in America are ever-changing, and becoming more diverse and inclusive every day. The leaders in the golf industry need a wake-up call from those of us who refuse to be color-blind. Instead, we have chosen to be color brave!

February 2, 2016 0 comment

Historic Freeway Golf Course is for sale

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The Historic Freeway Golf Course Closed and Up For Sale

by Debert Cook February 2, 2016

written by Debert Cook

The first African American-owned 18-hole golf course in America, Freeway Golf Course, located in Sicklerville, New Jersey, is in the process of being sold. At an asking price of $2.4 million dollars, a local developer has made a offer to purchase the property with intentions to reconstruct it and build housing units on the 150-acres.

UPDATE >> HELP SAVE FREEWAY GOLF COURSE: LISTEN LIVE, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2016 AT 11:00 PM (Eastern) when radio talk show host Terrance Taylor speaks with Freeway Golf Course Board Member Joe Thomas on developments surrounding the pending sale of America’s first African American-owned 18-hole golf course. Tune in online at http://tobtr.com/s/8282637. Note: Once the show is completed, you can listen in the following morning. >> TO LISTEN CLICK HERE

Open since 1967, Freeway has been frequented notable golfers including Jim Dent, Lee Elder, Calvin Peete, Charlie Sifford, Jim Thorpe and other prominent individuals. The course is a 6,536-yard Horace Smith design bearing two distinct 9 holes that has played host to the inaugural Sammy Davis Jr. Open, which became the PGA TOUR’s Hartford Open.

Over the years, course maintenance and updates have waned, then following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, it faced severe flooding. The course has been owned and operated by the Greater Philadelphia Golf and Country Club and headed by President Paulette Copeland-Bolton. Floyd Bagby is listed as manager and Bill Bishop as the golf professional. There are more than 300 shareholders.

Conveniently located near new outlet stores in Gloucester Twp. (NJ) Freeway had the perfect layout for attracting weekend recreational golfers and a round could easily be obtained for around $25. At the writing of this article, the golf calendar on the website was empty and the telephone goes unanswered.

“We here in the local community are trying really hard to keep it as a golf course,” said Keller William Realty, Broker/Manager Jerry McCarthy who lives in the area. “We hope that somebody who does not know about the course being for sale will step-up and take interest in buying it.” McCarty has received five offers on the property, with some buyers seeking financing, grants, and other means to acquire it.

McCarthy says that there is a board meeting today to see what the next steps will be. “So, this property may be back up to sale. The Freeway Golf course family is trying hard to keep this an historic African American golf course” He continues, “I am really surprised that no members of the African American community have not shown any interest in the course. It is listed on all of the MLS listings, golf course owners association and on loopnet.”

Hopefully, word will spread in time for someone to see the opportunity that exists and Freeway Golf Course will continue to operate in service to the community.

“As a community, we should have been in a position to take this on,” said Joe Thomas, an economic and business development representative and Freeway Golf Course board member. “Now, we are back at the end of the line, again. You can bet that non-black America is watching this happen. It’s the end of an era. At Freeway we had our own network; we were able to govern our own course. There must be enough of us (blacks) out here with money, so that we can do something to maintain this national site.”

arris M. Ginyard. (Montford Point Marines Association)

According to the African American Golfer’s Digest list of Black-owned, operated and managed golf courses in America, only 13 courses fit this status. “The game of golf is about protecting golf. We have to protect our own or this is what happens. If we can boycott the Oscars, why can’t we all support these courses with a national tournament of our own? Freeway is a national treasure—The death of this course would be like a funeral. But, perhaps it should be our awakening,” said Thomas.

Persons interested may contact:

Jerry Mccarthy
Keller William Realty,
Broker/Manager
[email protected]
Telephone: 609-634-1729

February 2, 2016 0 comment

Entertainment

King Tut, The Golden Age of the Pharaohs

by Debert Cook February 1, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Face the boy king, King Tutankhamun, and behold the massive treasures of his tomb. Regal and surrounded by all the best that Egypt had to offer his short life, of just 18-years, would become one of world’s most sought-after exhibitions.

The legendary treasures of King Tut, first time in a generation, permit visitors to the exhibition with an extraordinary opportunity to revel in the splendor of the ancient Egyptian world.

The journey back in time begins as you enter a corridor of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs surrounded by a dazzling array of possessions unearthed from this tomb of treasure. Priceless antiquities are displayed, exactly as English archaeologist Howard Carter discovered them inside of the 3,000-year-old tomb on November 1922.

Some visitors may be disappointed to find out that none of the original treasures would be on display. However, once inside, you will be amazed at how authentic the handcrafted reproductions are. Some of the world’s most skilled artisans have done an impressive job in detailing every item. Even without the original artifacts being displayed, the exhibit is definitely worthwhile for those who are interested in Egyptian history.

New scientific findings about King Tut will also be on display for the first time in a gallery devoted to the latest DNA studies and other forensic information about his life and death.

News of Carter’s discovery in the Valley of the Kings spread rapidly across the globe. This exhibition, through 10 galleries and 130 artifacts, gives visitors an opportunity to experience the world of the 18th Dynasty and world of the pharaoh like never before with highlights that include:

King Tut’s chariot has arrived at Discovery TSX. In its first appearance outside of Egypt, see the chariot that may have caused the death of King Tutankhamun.

See the Boy King’s golden canopic coffinette and the crown found on his head when the tomb was discovered

Learn about the extraordinary discovery of Tut’s tomb and the beliefs and funerary processes of ancient Egypt

February 1, 2016 0 comment

Heard & Scene

Champions Tour Player Jim Thorpe and Comedian Steve Harvey Enjoy a Saturday Round

by Debert Cook February 1, 2016

written by Debert Cook

(L-R) Pro Golfer Jim Thorpe and Comedian Steve Harvey

Two golfing buddies got together by change to enjoy a quiet (yet competitive) round of golf on Saturday, January 30, 2016. There nothing more mattered than hitting perfect strokes on the back nine. Course: Ritz-Carlton Grand Lakes. The tournament level golf course in Orlando, Fla., is laid out a fantastic resort setting

Thorpe was a three time winner on the PGA Tour in the mid-1980s. He has surpassed this at senior level by winning over ten times, including one senior major championship (the 2002 Tradition) and making the top ten of the Champions Tour’s career money list in 2004.

Thorpe was born in Roxboro, North Carolina, the ninth of the twelve children of a fairway superintendent. He attended Morgan State University before turning pro in 1972.

Thrope is well-known and loved for his dynamic personality, humble attitude and strong philanthropy in helping youth across the country thorough his golf clinics and life advice.

Comedian Steve Harvey is best known for his early Chicago (Ill) beginning and stand-up routines. Today he is an avid golfer who likes to attend celebrity tournaments and fundraisers.

Harvey has extended his professional talents to successes that encompass a wide range of areas including television host, radio personality, actor, and author.

He hosts The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Steve Harvey (the talk show), and Family Feud. He is the author of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, which was published in March 2009, and the book Straight Talk, No Chaser: How to Find and Keep a Man.

Curious to see that scorecard between him and Jim? Well, inquiring minds want to know how the round turned out.

February 1, 2016 0 comment

News Photo Gallery Featured 2 Women's Round

A Woman Cave Fit For a Queen

by Debert Cook January 31, 2016

written by Debert Cook

As narcissistic as it may sound, pampering oneself is the ultimate pleasure in self-gratification. But, notwithstanding the temptations to resist, one such lady golfer did exactly this. As a personal Christmas gift to herself Marguerite Acker-West designed and built her very own ‘Woman Cave’. That’s right, a unique retreat in her own home that contains a plethora of golf treasures, trinkets and mementos. The space is clearly comparable to the popular “Man Cave” environment that—for so long—men have enjoyed having for themselves. “It was my Christmas gift,” says the Marguerite. The converted room is a self-enclosed patio that is just perfect for serving all of her needs, from meditation to reading to putting practice. She also enjoys the space for playing Wii and singing karaoke with friends. “My motivation stemmed from a shoulder impingement injury that had me out of the game for two weeks,” says the Red Bank, New Jersey native who now resides in Hinesville, GA.

As her injury healed, Marguerite diligently worked on completing her dream woman cave. Making the best of fluctuating seasonal weather changes in the area, whenever temperatures dipped into the 30’s, or lower, she was all-in, in getting things done. A local contractor that she worked with was able to complete the enclosure in merely two short days, finishing up on a Wednesday, just before Christmas 2015. “Amazingly, the total cost for the new woman cave space came to only $4,785.00, because we already had the concrete slab of 19’x16’ square feet,” she states. The frame: metal. floor: concrete. Marguerite used her creativity to efficiently put everything she needed together. From Lowes, she purchased two gallons of concrete paint at a total of 55.96. “It comes in a grey color, but I customized it to my liking by adding a bit of Pine Forest.”  It took one full day to paint the concrete floor and let it dry. For the floor covering, she laid down a large, beautiful 10’x10’ green grass carpet—ideal for providing that outdoor golf course feeling. bench Around the room she added two relaxing a tall Turtle Bay table ($145.00) with two chairs, a sitting bench ($78.00 purchased with her military discount) along with comfy cushions ($39.96 from Big Lots).

additional furnishings include a floor lamp ($24.00 at Lowes) with shades ($475.00 Lowes), a peaceful rocking chair ($50.00 Ollies) and compact storage cabinets ($80.00 Lowes). Together the furniture really sets the tone for the space and gives her guests great seating options. On the walls, she prominently placed her large wooden plaque that showcased her profile feature as “Golfer of the Week” (July 2015) by African American Golfer’s Digest. table 300 “I love to paint! The deck box is 20-years old and it will be painted real soon,” chuckles Marquerite.    This Jersey gal loves to design on a dime.  A large ceiling fan and screened in walls completes the room. “My favorite spot in the room?” —Well this is very hard for her to discern. “I love putting on the green, I guess my rocking chair is relaxing. Thanks be to God, I entered 2016 debt free with all my credit cards paid in full. MY only bill is my mortgage and basic utilities.” “My home is truly now mine and it is a happy home. I serve cookie’s that look like the green. And, oh yes, Marguerite will be playing this weekend. This Jersey mom, living in South East GA, prefers to play when its 55 degrees, and above. ” I have nothing to prove by playing in 29 and 40 degree weather.”

January 31, 2016 0 comment

Blog Heard & Scene

An Aggie Land Junior Golf Experience As Never Before

by Debert Cook January 30, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Thanks to Coach Wendi Wiese for hosting an incredible trip to Aggie Land for our group of junior golfers during the last weekend of January 2016. The spectacular outing wrapped up the month of January activities for our Grand Prairie/Arlington LPGA-USGA Junior Golfers.   So far, our young golfers have visited three of the top Division I University Golf programs in the state of Texas. SMU, TCU, and Texas A&M, with hopes to visit University of Texas, ASU, Stanford , Duke and Wake Forest.

Gladys Lee Group-2 Youth gather outside the shuttle bus (l-r) Cam, Kylie, Luke, Jonathan, Maia, and Kennedi

Our visit to Aggie Land began early Saturday morning arriving at the Traditions Golf Club and Aggie Learning Center for a guided tour led by Coach Wendi Wiese. Personally–even though I love SMU and TCU, the golf facilities in Aggie Land are ” Too Legit to Quit! ”

Youth stand with Coach Gladys Lee (far right) and Wendi Wiese (red Shirt)

After the tour at Traditions everyone jumped into their cars to caravan for the short trip over to the beautiful “Pebble Creek Country Club”, where the kids warmed-up on the range before taking to the course for a two-person scramble match play format against the Aggie Jr. Texas Team.

Congrats to the Jr. Texas Team who defeated us with, style and much class, 11 to 1. Even though our team took a royal whipping, the kids held their heads high, had a ton of fun, met new friends, enjoyed a gourmet burger dinner with french fries along with delicious home-made chocolate chip cookies, Oregano coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, all provided by Coach Wendi Wiese and her Texas Team in one of their gorgeous dinning rooms at the Country Club.

Musically accomplished pianist Kennedi plays “Try” for guests

Coach Wendi is a lady with much class! The kids were served on china, with real silverware, crystal glasses and beautiful linen napkins; WOW! … CAN’T TOUCH THIS! (no paper of plastic for this Classy Coach) And to top it off, everything, all day long, was absolutely FREE for the kids. WOW…did I already say, CAN’T TOUCH THIS!

Wendi Wiese, (pictured left) is a PGA Professional and Director of Instruction at Pebble Creek Country Club, College Station, TX. She has developed a Texas Team Junior Golf an after school golf program in her local schools with the intent of offering access into the game of golf through a fun, educational environment in which golf skills, long term athletic development, character, and conﬁdence are built. Wendi spent 11 years as the Assistant Women’s Golf Coach at Texas A&M University.

After dinner and an exciting awards presentation, but before some of the members hit the highway to return to the Metroplex, and others of us retired to our hotel rooms, I was so very proud of all of the kids and their parents, as the night ended with our very own Kennedi Lee and Cam Alexander, sitting down to entertain and play for everyone on a beautiful baby grand piano in the dinning area.

Kennedi choose a piece called “Try “–I assumed she was letting me know that even though the putts didn’t drop as expeced it wasn’t because she didn’t TRY.

Lawrence “Lil Cam” (sitting at piano) chose a moving and soulful rendition of “Our God is an Awesome God!”

After listening to the virtuosity of these youngsters and learning of the many talents and skills they all possess, there is no doubt in my mind just as their small hands and, tiny10 fingers, glided and stroked the 52 white and 36 black ivory keys of the piano –producing the beautiful music they entertained us with–I sincerely believe, those same small hands and tiny ten fingers will take the required number of graphite (or steel) clubs to produce the music we as golfers love to hear:

The clack sound that a golf ball makes when solid contact is made, when it hits the sweet spot on a club; and the plop sound a ball makes when gently stroked and it finds it way to the bottom of the cup.

Photo: Youth prepare to tee off for tournament match

Kids and parents Coach Lee loves you to pieces, so keep rocking!

Texas A&M Aggie Jr. Team Texas, Coach Wendi and all your staff, this trip has been one of the best and we are looking forward to reciprocating with the same style and class when you visit the Metroplex during the North Texas LPGA Shootout in April.

Thank you Wendi for rolling out the Red Carpet. And thanks to everyone who worked to hard to make it all possible; I love you Girl!

With the greatest of respect!  Coach Lee.

Coach Gladys M. Lee
LPGA Professional Teacher & Coach
Founder / Executive Director
Roaring Lambs International Junior Golf Academy
www.roaringlambsjrgolf.com
[email protected]
Telephone: 214-212-9475

January 30, 2016 0 comment

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2016 PGA Merchandise Show: Where is the Diversity?

by Debert Cook January 29, 2016

written by Debert Cook

The Fountain of Optimism–
(by Pete McDaniel)

pgashow-3 I’ve known several golf equipment geeks but none more fanatical than my late golf partner Leroy Posey. Leroy had plastic head covers for his irons back in the ‘70s when it first became fashionable. His always immaculately polished golf shoes never left their little leather bags until they were unpacked in the locker room (or the parking lot of courses much too discriminating about those allowed in their locker room).

Leroy was one helluva trumpeter in several R&B bands back in the day. I penned lyrics and worked the lighting for one of them, traveling up and down the East Coast on a Silver Eagle touring bus customized to accommodate the 10-piece band. Leroy was also a clothes horse, who matched his hard-collared golf shirts perfectly with his hard-creased Sans-A-Belt slacks. One of the best clutch putters ever, Leroy would have loved the PGA Merchandise Show in the Orlando Convention Center with its assortment of golf equipment, action wear apparel and swing aids. Pure paradise to the got-to-have-the-latest golf nut.

What Leroy would not have liked, however, is the ever-growing lack of diversity of the show. I know it’s an old saw, but 10 years ago the show had a nice sprinkling of black faces (vendors and floor walkers) to suggest a welcomed shift in the industry’s demographics. Now the only African-American presence at the show is a lone golf writer, a couple of PGA of America officials, a small cadre of PGA professionals, a handful of convention employees in uniform and the occasional hack testing the latest driver guaranteed to deliver on the promise of 20 extra yards off the tee. No, Leroy would not appreciate the mostly vanilla landscape of the show. And neither do I. But you already know that from my previous rants against the wind.

However, I do appreciate what the show represents: the eternal hope that brand, spanking, new equipment will help the average hack improve their overall score and appear impeccably dressed while doing so. I’m all for that. Still, the business of golf devoid of persons of color remains the white elephant in the massive room.

Unlike Leroy, I’ve never been much of a golf equipment geek, but I must admit the show (my 22^nd, I believe) has always intrigued me. The sheer enormity of it is certainly impressive. And the new innovations are mesmerizing to even the most ornery hack. I’ve seen octogenarians jockey for position in line against starry-eyed juniors to test drive the new center-shafted, heel-to-toe-weighted, never-miss, see-more-putts-fall putter; and little old ladies with notepads sizing up the new next-generation, hip-hugging, eye-popping, drop-it-like-it’s-hot skirt and top set in every color imaginable. The show is replete with enough swing gurus, swing aids and snake oil salesmen (and women) to provide a carnival atmosphere.

This year my trek around the convention center floor revealed a bevy of new and interesting products, including a golf club carrier that holds six clubs for the player who prefers walking, a collection of jumbo-sized grips, an electronic cigar for those who enjoy puffing away the pressure of that three-foot par putt with six inches of break, and a Euro Body Shaper supposedly developed by NASA that promises great results in only a 10-minute daily workout.

Although I never attend as a consumer, this year a putting aid caught my attention sparked by the USGA’s ban on anchoring which took effect a few weeks ago effectively shelving the long putter I’ve used to skin opponents the past 15 years.

It’s an arm-lock grip for belly putters patterned along a similar concept as the one employed by Matt Kuchar. I can’t wait to take it to the practice green for a test run. If it works as well as advertised, my golf partners will start quaking in their soft spikes again whenever I stand over a 20-footer. Well, perhaps “quaking’’ is a little strong; more like exhibiting a modicum of concern. If it doesn’t enable me to start dropping putts again from all over the place, at least I can be assured that Leroy would have approved of my having sipped from the fountain of optimism.

ABOUT PETE McDANIEL Pete McDaniel is a veteran golf writer and best-selling author. His blogs and books are available at petemcdaniel.com Comments on this topic may be emailed directly to Pete at: [email protected]

January 29, 2016 0 comment

News Videos

The Ted Contee Story (VIDEO)

by Debert Cook January 28, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Relive the life and times of African American PGA Instructor Ted Contee who has been involved in golf for 62-years. Contee left employment with the Federal Government to be involved as a pro in the golf industry. Today he teaches at the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, D.C. and, has seen quite a bit of things that have happened during his time surrounding the game, diversity, competition and golfing organizations.

Listen as Contee talks with interviewer Lorenzo Hobbs and recounts his experiences of working in the professional ranks and of enjoying relaxing rounds with fellow avid golfers, where he has touched innumerable lives with his devotion to the game. Hear what he has to say about his ‘most frustrating thing in golf’ and of opportunities for Blacks on-and-off the field and why he ‘gave up’ trying to be on Tour. (Originally published on May 28, 2014.)

Lorenzo Hobbs is an avid golfer and serves as a Program Manager with the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs OSDBU. He resides with his family in Fredericksburg, VA.

January 28, 2016 0 comment

News

International Junior Golf Festival Veritas World Shutters It’s Program

by Debert Cook January 27, 2016

written by Debert Cook

We are sad to report that Veritas has gone dark following the 2015 event.

We are sad to report that Veritas World Junior has gone dark following the 2015 event. Veritas came to life because lots of great kids are not being offered an opportunity to participate in a big international event. Veritas World Junior was a California Non-Profit 501(c)3 Organization under the corporation Aletheia Project.

According to the organization, Veritas always felt the test to participate should be competency and that participating in a BIG EVENT was a very positive experience for a young person on many different levels. The intended purpose of the Veritas World Junior to operate in a manner to maximize the charitable giving potential through collection of entry fees, merchandise sales, licensing fees, sponsorships, donations and other means.

“Our team worked very hard for almost five years to make Veritas a success over the four events operated. Veritas has been successful on many levels having hosted 1,300 players and their families from 40 countries,” reported the organization’s press release.

In December 30, 2011, the Junior Golf Association of Northern California held the first US based Veritas qualifier at The Bridges Golf Club in San Ramon California hosting 174 athletes.

Unfortunately Veritas never reached the required level of players, about 500 annually, necessary to cover the high costs of operating a world class event. The big entities in the golf industry apparently could not see the value being created and would not offer any meaningful support to allow Veritas to continue.

“We cannot thank enough those that supported Veritas.”

View 2015 Leaderboards

January 27, 2016 0 comment

News

Avid Golfers Reveal Their Top-50 U.S. Courses

by Debert Cook January 26, 2016

written by Debert Cook

The Top-50 golf courses in the United States – as determined by more than 121,000 reviews from avid golfers in 2015 was revealed this week on Golf Advisor, the world’s leading golf course ratings and review website.

Above: Yocha Dehe Golf Club – Brooks, Calif.

More than 75,000 golfers in 2015 took the time to share their golfing experiences on Golf Advisor, resulting in the site’s Top 50 golf course list, which was developed by golfers, for golfers.

“You’ll find our Top 50 list features a handful of courses you’re used to seeing in on a top 100 list somewhere, while others you may have never heard of,” said Brandon Tucker, managing editor, Golf Advisor. “That’s precisely what we hope makes our list useful. An affordable, over-achieving municipal course in rural Texas has as much of a chance of receiving a strong review as a $300 resort course in Arizona.”

Unlike rankings published by various golf publications, which normally are geared toward architecture or history and conducted by a panel of industry insiders, the Golf Advisor Top 50 is totally consumer-driven. Ages, handicaps and budgets of golfers using Golf Advisor run the gamut, so the more than 450,000 reviews the site has accumulated over the past two years showcase the golf course characteristics that are most important to avid golfers across the country.

Although courses in Florida, California, Arizona and Texas comprise half the list, states from other U.S. regions also are well represented, including the Midwest, West, Great Lakes, New England and the Mid-Atlantic.

Yocha Dehe Golf Club, located in Brooks, just west of Sacramento, Calif., topped the list. Yocha Dehe delivered on all criteria – value, service, facilities, course conditions, scenery, food, and an interesting and challenging layout – receiving an average five-star rating.

Courses that often are regular candidates for top-100 public rankings – including Maderas Golf Club in Poway, Calif., TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course in Arizona, Pine Barrens Course at World Woods in Brooksville, Fla., and Bayonet Course at Bayonet & Black Horse in Seaside, Calif. – prove that they are able to meet the high expectations not just with industry panelists, but for paying golfers on a daily basis.

Some of the lesser-known, value courses on the list like Delaware Springs Golf Course in Burnet, Texas; Gunter’s Landing in Guntersville, Ala., and Royal Hylands Golf Club in Knightstown, Ind., prove that a course can earn excellent reviews if golfers find the experience both on the course and off to be far superior than other courses they play.

Below is Golf Advisor’s list of Top 50 Courses. To read about the methodology behind the list, as well as see the review pages for each course included, click here.

Yocha Dehe Golf Club – Brooks, Calif.
Mission Inn Resort & Club (El Campeón Course) – Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla.
La Cantera Golf Club (Palmer Course) – San Antonio, Texas
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort (Sun Mountain Course) – Las Vegas, Nev.
Waldorf Astoria Golf Club – Orlando, Fla.
Sewailo Golf Club – Tucson, Ariz.
FarmLinks Golf Club – Sylacauga, Ala.
World Woods Golf Club (Pine Barrens Course) – Brooksville, Fla.
Candler Hills Golf Club – Ocala, Fla.
Cross Creek Country Club – Mt. Airy, N.C.
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort (Wolf Course) – Las Vegas, Nev.
Royal Hylands Golf Club – Knightstown, Ind.
Ram’s Hill Golf Club – Borrego Springs, Calif.
Scotch Hall Preserve – Merry Hill, N.C.
Cedarbrook Country Club – Elkin, N.C.
Gunter’s Landing – Guntersville, Ala.
The Club at Eaglebrooke – Lakeland, Fla.
Macatawa Legends Golf & Country Club – Holland, Mich.
Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons – Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
Maderas Golf Club – Poway, Calif.
Canterbury Woods Country Club – Canterbury, N.H.
Bedford Valley – Battle Creek, Mich.
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort (Snow Mountain Course) – Las Vegas, Nev.
The Golf Club at North Hampton – Fernandina Beach, Fla.
Hawk Hollow Golf Course – Bath Township, Mich.
Blackstone Golf Club – Marengo, Ill.
The Hideaway Country Club – Fort Myers, Fla.
Grand Cypress Golf Club (New Course) – Orlando, Fla.
The Trophy Club – Lebanon, Ind.
Grand Bear Golf Course – Saucier, Miss.
TPC Las Vegas – Las Vegas, Nev.
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa – Ojai, Calif.
Twin Lakes Golf Course – Canton, Texas
Delaware Springs Golf Course – Burnet, Texas
TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course) – Scottsdale, Ariz.
The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort – St. Simons Island, Ga.
Verrado Golf Club – Buckeye, Ariz.
Maryland National Golf Club – Middletown, Md.
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club – Grayslake, Ill.
Copper Canyon Golf Club – Wittmann, Ariz.
The Wilderness Golf Course – Lake Jackson, Texas
Aviara Golf Club – Carlsbad, Calif.
St. James Bay – Carrabelle, Fla.
Oakcreek Country Club – Sedona, Ariz.
Bayonet & Black Horse (Bayonet Course) – Seaside, Calif.
Pole Creek Golf Club – Granby, Colo.
Niagara Frontier Country Club – Youngstown, N.Y.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa – Young Harris, Ga.
Stonegate Golf Club – Twin Lake, Mich.
Wolfdancer Golf Club – Lost Pines, Texas

About GolfAdvisor.com

GolfAdvisor.com is the leading source of golf course ratings and reviews by golfers, for golfers.

January 26, 2016 0 comment

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