San Diego’s Own Golfing Legend: Phil Mickelson’s Rise and Controversy

San Diego, California, has always been proud of its own, and when it comes to golf, Phil Mickelson is as local as they come. Born on June 16, 1970, Mickelson’s remarkable journey started when he was just an 18-month-old toddler, swinging his first golf balls with a natural flair. Watching his father swing, Phil picked up the game left-handed, which gave him the famous nickname, “Lefty.” Little did anyone know, this young boy would become one of the most celebrated names in professional golf.

A Promising Start at ASU

Growing up, Mickelson dominated the amateur scene, clinching a variety of tournaments around San Diego. His talent was undeniable, earning him the prestigious title of Junior Player of the Year three times in a row from 1986 to 1988. This burgeoning talent secured him a full scholarship to Arizona State University, where he became a household name in amateur golf. Over four stellar years, Mickelson was a first-team All-American and snagged three NCAA championships, putting him on track for greatness.

Breaking onto the Scene

In the early 1990s, things began to heat up as Mickelson joined the PGA Tour in 1992. His first professional win came the very next year at the Northern Telecom Open. Can you imagine? An amateur winning on the pro circuit! That budding rivalry with Tiger Woods added even more excitement to every match. With their contrasting styles—Mickelson’s outgoing persona matched against Woods’ more reserved demeanor—their rivalry made golf more thrilling for fans everywhere.

The Chase for Major Glory

Despite his dazzling displays, Mickelson was often overshadowed by a different title—the best player never to win a major tournament. It was a heavy label, especially since he finished as a runner-up in six majors between 1999 and 2003. But then came 2004, a year to remember! Mickelson finally broke through, winning the Masters by a single stroke, and not just that, he kept riding the success wave with additional major victories in 2005 and 2006, including a third green jacket at the Masters in 2010.

Controversy Strikes in 2022

However, life in the spotlight isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. In early 2022, Mickelson stirred the pot when he publicly backed LIV Golf Investments, a Saudi-backed tour known for offering jaw-dropping payouts to golfers. Critics slammed LIV, claiming it was an attempt by the Saudi government to “sportswash” its human rights issues. Mickelson described the Saudis as “scary” but believed it could shake things up in the PGA, accusing them of “obnoxious greed.” His words didn’t sit well with many, leading to an apology, withdrawal from events, and even a two-month suspension from the PGA for allegedly trying to recruit players for the new tour.

The Legal Battle and Merging Futures

As if that wasn’t messy enough, Mickelson and other suspended golfers filed an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA. But hold on, things took another twist! When LIV Golf joined the suit, Mickelson withdrew, claiming his part was no longer necessary. Fast forward to 2023, and a surprising turn of events unfolded—the PGA and LIV decided to merge, bringing to an end all pending lawsuits.

What’s Next for Phil?

For Phil Mickelson, this ongoing saga has been filled with ups and downs, yet his impressive golf career continues to etch his story into the sport’s history. As he navigates his next moves in this new chapter, one thing’s for sure: golf fans, both locals in San Diego and around the world, are excited to see how this left-handed legend will rewrite his legacy.

Partnership on the Greens: GameAbove Sports Teams Up with Sports Travel Group

DETROIT – A new chapter is unfolding in the world of sports as **GameAbove Sports** just announced an exciting partnership with **Sports Travel Group** that is sure to shake things up in the golf tourism industry. This collaboration isn’t just a casual handshake; it’s the result of a multi-million dollar investment geared towards expanding Golf Traveller’s operations across North America.

All About the Partnership

GameAbove Sports, a sub-brand of GameAbove known for its keen eye on transforming the sports industry, is looking to bring a fresh approach to golf tourism. With its operations, **GameAbove Sports** is stepping firmly into the spotlight as a business development firm that specializes in strategic capital investments, marketing, and youth sports development.

Leading this partnership is none other than the **Hogan Lovells** law firm, specifically its private equity partner and New York office managing partner, Michael Kuh. He had a solid team behind him, including private equity partner James Cross, M&A counsel Grant Munyon, and associates Andrew Klokiw and James Scott, who all played pivotal roles in bringing this collaboration to fruition.

Golf Traveller at the Forefront

So, what’s in it for Golf Traveller? This luxury golf travel and events business, part of the Sports Travel Group, is poised to benefit massively from GameAbove’s investments. The synergy between GameAbove’s thorough understanding of sports investments and Golf Traveller’s expertise in crafting unique golfing experiences presents a golden opportunity for both parties.

Industry Leaders Speak Out

Keith J. Stone, the founder and chairman of GameAbove Sports, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to partner with Sports Travel Group and Golf Traveller as they continue to broaden their reach and impact within the global golf community. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of joining forces with transformative companies that deliver exceptional value to sports.”

On the other side of the partnership, **Euan Gillon**, CEO of Golf Traveller, couldn’t hide his excitement either: “Teaming up with GameAbove Sports opens incredible opportunities for us. We are eager to deliver innovative solutions in golf and beyond.” His optimism points to a promising future as both companies aim to redefine the landscape of golf tourism, making substantial contributions to it globally.

Looking to the Future

This partnership is not just a standalone event; it signifies GameAbove Sports’ growing presence in various sports arenas. The firm has also recently emerged as the title sponsor of the **2024 Detroit-based college football bowl game**, and even made headlines with their acquisition of the Australian basketball team, **Brisbane Bullets**.

As the partnership takes flight, many are eager to see how GameAbove Sports and Sports Travel Group can blend their talents and resources to create, innovate, and lead the golf tourism industry into a new era.

Changing the Game

In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, the move into golf tourism represents an opportunity to promote not only thrilling sports experiences but also responsible travel practices. With ecstatic golf fans expected to flock from various regions, this collaboration could set the benchmark for future partnerships in the sports tourism domain.

As both GameAbove Sports and Sports Travel Group gear up for this new venture, all eyes will be on how they capitalize on this partnership to enhance golfing experiences for enthusiasts and casual fans alike. Will Detroit become the next hotbed for golf travel innovation? Time will tell, but this partnership has certainly paved the way for something quite exciting ahead!

Excitement Grows for the 2025 Blue Canyon Ladies Championship in Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand – The buzz surrounding the 2025 Blue Canyon Ladies Championship is palpable! Scheduled from March 13-16, 2025, this prestigious golf tournament is set to tee off with a whopping total prize money of $800,000. That’s an increase from the $650,000 offered in 2024, and it’s clear that this event is becoming more significant each year. It’s also the second straight year Thailand has stepped up to host this spectacular event, and they couldn’t be more thrilled!

A Star-Studded Line-Up

Golf enthusiasts are in for a treat as the tournament will feature an exciting mix of competitors. Expect to see top talent from the KLPGA Tour, alongside 40 invited players from across Asia, making this an unmissable event for fans of the sport.

Invitations have been dispatched to a slew of talented golfers. This impressive group will include:

• The top 8 golfers from the Thai LPGA Tour Order of Merit
• The top 4 players from the Japan LPGA Tour Order of Merit
• Promising golfers from a variety of countries, including India, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, Taiwan, Australia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Malaysia. In all, 18 players will emerge from this diverse pool!
• Three qualifiers derived from National Qualifiers, consisting of two Thai golfers and one international player.
• Seven lucky sponsor invitees.

Last year’s inaugural event was a sensation, with Lee Ye-won triumphing with an impressive score of 9-under-par 207. This marked one of her three wins that season, and set the bar high for the upcoming tournament.

Chairman Enthusiastic for a Bright Future

Praphant Asava-aree, Chairman of the Blue Canyon Country Club, expressed his enthusiasm for the anticipated 2025 championship. He said, “The 2024 tournament was one of the most exciting and vibrant golf events in Thailand, and we’re thrilled to continue hosting the KLPGA Tour.”

He continued to share his vision for the championship by stating, “In 2025, we aim to elevate the experience, bringing in even more top-tier players from the Thai LPGA and leading female golfers from across Asia.” But that’s not all! The introduction of National Qualifiers is set to expand opportunities for both Thai and international golfers, allowing them to showcase their skills at this grand stage.

A Golfing Paradise

Blue Canyon Country Club is revered for its stunning beauty and challenging course design. Just recently, this outstanding venue was named the Best Golf Course in Thailand at the World Golf Awards 2024 held in Madeira, Portugal. This is the second time they have debuted with this accolade, having secured it previously in 2022. The club has also snagged awards like the ASEAN Golf Awards in 2018, and was recognized as Asia’s Best Golf Course on multiple occasions.

But that’s not all! The Blue Canyon Country Club has also snagged the honor of hosting the Annika Invitational Asia, another fantastic international women’s amateur golf tournament scheduled for April 2025.

About the KLPGA

The Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) holds a prestigious reputation as one of the top five women’s golf tours worldwide. Established back in 1977, this dynamic tour is an essential contributor to the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. With its 46th season wrapping up and a lineup of 32 thrilling events, the KLPGA has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of women’s professional golf.

With its world-class players, beautiful venue, and towering prestige, the Blue Canyon Ladies Championship 2025 is set to become one of the highlights of the golfing calendar. Golf fans, mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

Golf’s Latest Buzz: LIV Golf’s New Promo Star Emerges from Saudi Showdown

In the vibrant city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, something exciting just went down in the world of golf! LIV Golf wrapped up its Promotions event with a thrilling finale that saw a total of 92 players battling it out for a coveted spot on the tour. After an intense 36-hole shootout, the spotlight shone on one extraordinary player, Chieh-po Lee, who’s also known as “Max.” He’s not just your average golfer; this 30-year-old Asian Tour pro made waves by becoming the first Taiwanese player to snag a place on LIV Golf.

How did he do it, you ask? Well, Lee kicked off the day with an impressive score of seven-under 64 in the morning round, giving him a solid two-stroke lead. He didn’t let up in the afternoon either, adding another three-under to his card, all while keeping his cool and sealing the deal with a birdie on the par-3 17th. Lee expressed how monumental this win is for him, sharing, “It means a lot to me because I was playing on the Asian Tour many years, and LIV Golf, I think it’s every player’s goal, every player’s target.”

What’s Next for the Relegated Pros?

However, this thrilling new addition to LIV Golf also signifies a tough ending for a few players who got relegated at the season’s close. The likes of Branden Grace, Kieran Vincent, Scott Vincent, Kalle Samooja, and Bubba Watson had their shot at redemption through this Promotions event. Grace was the closest to reclaiming his spot, finishing in a T2 position with a score of eight under par. These players have not gone home empty-handed, though; they will receive exemptions into the International Series on the Asian Tour for 2025.

But wait, there’s still a glimmer of hope for some of them! LIV Golf mentioned that if a team makes a “business case” to keep a relegated player, he could return for the next season. For instance, it’s reported that Bubba Watson, who skipped the Promotions event, could come back as captain of the Range Goats team, largely due to his star power following his Masters win. Similarly, Grace may also return if his case is strong enough!

A Rising Star Gets Back in the Game

The week was also a revival for Ollie Schniederjans, an American pro who graced the PGA Tour a few years back. After some ups and downs since his last Tour appearance in 2019, Schniederjans made a strong statement during the Promotions event, ending T4 at five under par. “I’m very confident about where everything is heading,” he shared, highlighting how the pressure-packed putts and shots boosted his belief in himself.

Along with Schniederjans, other players like Brett Coletta and Jack Buchanan, who also finished tied for fourth, alongside Germany’s Max Rottluff, have earned their place in the International Series, giving them a chance to climb back into the limelight!

The Future of Promotions at LIV Golf

Now, what’s the game plan for the Promotions event moving forward? This was its second run, created to add a bit of flair to LIV Golf amid criticism about it being a closed league. Last season had three promotion spots, but this year only offered up one due to the absence of a quest for Official World Golf Ranking points.

Interestingly, two players promoted last year faced relegation this season, making the future of this event somewhat unclear. With most of LIV’s teams filled through free agency, mixing in newcomers might stir the pot a bit regarding team dynamics. With the Saudi PIF still in talks with the PGA Tour, anticipation builds for the 2025 season, which kicks off back at Riyadh Golf Club on February 6-8.

So, what’s next on the horizon for LIV Golf? Only time will tell, but fans can surely expect more thrilling golf and surprises as the league gears up for its next chapter!

New Beginnings for Kieran Vincent in Mauritius

This week, the tropical vibes of Mahe, Mauritius welcome the thrilling action of the Mauritius Open, and one golfer who’s making a comeback is none other than Zimbabwe’s rising star, Kieran Vincent. After a rollercoaster year in the golf world, Vincent is ready to tee off in his debut on the DP World Tour as he aims to revive his career away from the now-familiar grounds of the LIV Golf League.

Adapting to Change

Reality check: Kieran’s stint with LIV Golf came to an unexpected halt after he ended up in a disappointing 54th place in the 2024 standings. His best showing? A T18 finish back in Nashville. As a player for Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII, which clocked in at a respectable 2nd place overall and snagged four titles, the journey had its highlights. Unfortunately, after a tough Promotions tournament in Saudi Arabia, where he lagged behind Lee Chieh-po by 10 strokes, Vincent found himself on the outside looking in.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

In an emotional twist, Legion XIII took to social media to bid farewell to Vincent: “Kieran’s hard work, talent, and one-of-a-kind personality will be missed. It’s been an unforgettable year together!” With that, a spot opens up for a new player for 2025, but details are still under wraps. Meanwhile, Vincent is gearing up for the Mauritius Open, where he qualified through the National Spots category—a glimmer of opportunity to shine once again.

Rebuilding from the Ground Up

So, what’s next for Kieran after leaving LIV Golf behind? He could either continue his journey in the DP World Tour or perhaps explore options in the Asian Tour or the Sunshine Tour. Having turned professional just last year, in 2022, after showcasing his skills at Liberty University in Virginia, opportunities to play competitively remain crucial. Kieran already marked his name on the stages of the Asian Tour by winning the International Series Vietnam in 2023 and also bagged a title on the Sunshine Tour in 2024. If these past triumphs are anything to go by, the future could look bright for him.

Family Ties and Shared Paths

Interestingly, Kieran isn’t the only Vincent facing this transition; his older brother, Scott, also found himself relegated from the LIV Golf League after his stint with Iron Heads GC. Scott has already seen his spot filled by South Korea’s top player, Yubin Jang. The two brothers have had quite the experience in this rapidly-changing golf landscape, and now both are ready to carve out their own paths, proving that family blood can truly run deep in the sport.

Looking Ahead

With the Mauritius Open on the horizon, there’s a palpable sense of excitement surrounding Kieran Vincent. As he prepares to take on this new challenge, fans and fellow golfers alike are eager to see how he’ll adapt and thrive in this fresh environment. Will he reclaim his spot among the best or venture into new territories? Only time and his performance on the course will tell.

For now, as Kieran gears up for this pivotal tournament, all eyes are on him. This week in Mauritius isn’t just about golf; it represents a new start, a chance to rewrite his narrative, and maybe—just maybe—a step toward a glorious comeback.

Riyadh Welcomes a New Star in Golf!

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – A wave of excitement swept through Riyadh Golf Club as Lee Chieh-po, known to friends as Max, clinched his spot in the prestigious LIV Golf League for the 2025 season. It was a thrilling showdown that wrapped up in dramatic fashion this Saturday, where the 30-year-old came roaring out of the gates with a stunning morning round that included nine birdies and showcased his exceptional talent on the course.

Hitting It Big

This victory is historic as Lee becomes the first golfer from Chinese Taipei to earn a full-time role in LIV Golf, a groundbreaking achievement that has not only set the stage for his future but also put a spotlight on his home country. His triumph is not just a personal milestone but a significant dose of motivation for other aspiring golfers back home. “It means a lot for our players,” Lee said with a smile. “LIV Golf is many players’ dream. If I can do it, I believe they will come too!”

How It All Went Down

Lee’s performance over the two rounds was nothing less than spectacular. He achieved a two-round total of 10 under par, finishing two strokes ahead of fellow Asian Tour player Taichi Kho and LIV Golf’s Branden Grace. The competition kicked off with an impressive field of 92 players, all vying for a coveted acceptance into the elite league. However, it was Lee’s skillful shot-making that set him apart, particularly a jaw-dropping 7-under 64 in the morning round that included birdies galore.

After his dazzling start, Lee held onto a slim lead throughout the afternoon, even pulling ahead by three strokes at one point. A minor misstep at the par-4 16th where he made a bogey had fans on the edge of their seats as the competition tightened. “I hit it way poor to the left, and I was laughing, like, what am I doing?” he recounted humorously about that moment.

A Nail-Biting Finish

With the pressures mounting, Lee managed to deliver when it mattered most. As he approached the par-3 17th hole, already known as one of the toughest on the course, he stepped up with a tee shot that almost went straight into the hole! Making that crucial birdie helped him breathe easier going into the final hole.

Despite the mounting tension and the chase from Grace and Kho, Lee held his ground, finishing strong and keeping his composure under pressure. “Just tried to reset my mind,” Lee expressed. “That shot on 17 was very important. I hit a very good tee shot.”

What’s Next for Lee?

Now, Lee is ready to embark on this new chapter with LIV Golf, feeling more confident than ever. After dealing with a hip injury last year that caused him to modify his swing, he’s bounced back with solid performances this season, including a recent win at the International Series Thailand. “I think I can learn something,” he remarked eagerly about competing in this competitive new league.

A Bright Future for Golf in Chinese Taipei

In the end, the victory represents more than just an individual win — it signifies hope and inspiration for golfers from Chinese Taipei. As Lee himself stated, “Now it’s getting better, and the swing is easier,” reflecting the hard work and perseverance that’s gotten him to this point. Who knows, maybe this is just the beginning for Lee and a brighter future for golf in his homeland!

Suspended for Betting: Marco Penge’s Golf Career Takes a Hit

In a surprising twist for fans of professional golf, the golf world has been rocked by news from Tiburón Golf Club as 26-year-old English golfer, Marco Penge, has been suspended due to gambling violations. Yes, you heard that right! In an announcement that came down from the DP World Tour this week, they revealed that Penge had crossed the line by placing bets on various golf events, which flouted the tour’s strict regulations.

What Happened?

The DP World Tour released a statement confirming that an Independent Disciplinary Panel found Penge guilty of breaching Regulation 3(a)(i) of their Integrity Program. Apparently, while Marco didn’t bet on himself or on any tournaments during days he was actively participating, the panel still ruled that his actions were inappropriate. It’s a tough break for the rising star, who has made waves on the Challenge Tour, having clinched victory not once, but twice!

The Consequences

As a result of his actions, the pro golfer has been handed a three-month suspension, but the good news for Penge is that one month of that suspension has been postponed for a year. This means he could potentially avoid additional penalties if he behaves himself, but still, that’s a long time to be away from the competitive green. The suspension officially kicked in on December 13, which means Penge can hit the links again when it rolls around to February 13 next year. Oh, and let’s not forget about the £2,000 fine that came along with the suspension!

Penge’s Apology

In a recent statement, Penge expressed regret over his actions and provided some context. He mentioned that most of his bets happened back in 2022, well before he took part in the integrity program. It’s always tough to see an athlete stumble, especially one who seemed to have a bright future ahead of him. After all, Penge is currently sitting at No. 414 in the Official World Golf Ranking, and this sort of setback could be a significant detour in his career.

A Growing Trend

Interestingly, Penge isn’t the first golfer to find himself in hot water over gambling. Last year, two players from the Korn Ferry Tour—Vince India and Jake Staino—also faced suspensions for breaching the PGA Tour’s Integrity Program. In fact, Staino later publicly disclosed that his total betting amounted to a mere $116 back in 2021. So, it’s clear this isn’t just an isolated incident; there’s a bubbling issue in the professional sports arena regarding betting ethics.

Moving Forward

Fans and supporters of Penge are left hoping this incident won’t overshadow his talent. He has proven himself on the golf circuit with a couple of Challenge Tour wins under his belt, but this suspension could change the trajectory of his career if he’s not careful. A lot of eyes will be on him when his suspension ends to see if he can keep his nose clean and focus on what he does best: golfing.

What’s Next?

As we look ahead, both Penge and the golf community are at a crossroads. Will the golfer use this setback as a learning experience, or will he struggle to regain his former glory? Either way, it marks a pivotal moment not just in Marco Penge’s career, but in the realm of professional golf where integrity remains a critical cornerstone.

To wrap things up, keep your eyes peeled for updates as the golf world continues to shift and evolve. Who knows what the future holds for Marco Penge and other players facing similar dilemmas in the sport?

BOSTON, MA – Big Plans on the Horizon for Golf Travel Writers

As the golf world prepares for an exciting January, the Golf Travel Writers of America is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone—their 20th anniversary in 2025! To kick off the year, they’ve announced two key events during the bustling PGA Show in sunny Orlando, Florida, promising a mix of networking, fun, and a touch of friendly competition.

Mark Your Calendars!

The first event, tentatively scheduled for Friday, January 24, is set to take place at the stunning Heathrow Legacy Country Club, located just south of Orlando. This outing is expected to be the kick-off for at least three exciting events throughout 2025, hosted by a brand new leadership team that is eager to make their mark.

But that’s not all! The annual business meeting of the association will take place earlier in the week on Wednesday, January 22, at the Orange County Convention Center. Set to start at 11 a.m., this meeting will unfold in Room 312C, known as the Media Work Room. It’s a great chance for members to gather and discuss the future of golf travel writing before the International Network of Golf bestows its prestigious Media Awards starting at 12:30 p.m..

A Prime Location for Golf Enthusiasts

If you’ve ever wanted to check out a top-notch golf venue, you won’t want to miss Heathrow Legacy Country Club. This gem is owned and operated by Concert Golf Partners, a privately held company that boasts a portfolio of 36 upscale private clubs across the United States. The club recently underwent an impressive $3 million upgrade, making it even more appealing to golf lovers.

Heathrow features two remarkable courses—the Heathrow Country Club course, designed by renowned architect Ron Garl, and the Legacy Club course, crafted by the legendary Tom Fazio. With two clubhouses located just a mile apart, you’ll have plenty of space to mingle, play, and enjoy the lush greens.

A Gathering of Golf Writers from Near and Far

“A good portion of our writers and editors will be attending the PGA Show, so we expect a good turnout for our annual meeting and the first formal outing of the new year,” says Len Ziehm, the association’s executive director. The excitement in the air implies that gathering for these events will be a fantastic opportunity for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike to network and share ideas in the ever-evolving world of golf travel.

As members of the Golf Travel Writers of America prepare to convene in Orlando, the enthusiasm around their planned activities is palpable. With an agenda that balances business, networking, and a bit of fun on the course, these events are poised to be a delightful start to the new year in golf travel.

Looking Ahead

With all these exciting plans on the horizon, 2025 promises to be a banner year for the association and its members. Whether it’s meeting new colleagues, sharing captivating stories about golf travel, or simply enjoying a round in the sunshine, the upcoming events are sure to spark inspiration.

So, mark your calendars and get ready! The golf community is ready to come together for a series of events that are sure to inspire and motivate all involved.

Fort Myers Welcomes New Golf Tourism Partnership

In sunny **Fort Myers, Florida**, exciting news is on the horizon for golf enthusiasts across North America! A fresh partnership has just been announced that aims to expand the operations of Golf Traveller, a premier player in the world of golf tourism. This collaboration brings together the innovative team at GameAbove Sports and the travel experts at Sports Travel Group, all focused on creating unforgettable experiences for golf lovers.

A Multi-Million Dollar Investment

The partnership comes with a hefty multi-million dollar investment, specifically designed to enhance Golf Traveller’s offerings throughout North America. If you’ve ever dreamed of swinging clubs on prestigious golf courses while staying at luxurious hotels, this is the news you’ve been waiting for. Golf Traveller has built its reputation on crafting customized travel packages that include not only unique golfing experiences but also exclusive perks that truly elevate a trip.

What Golf Traveller Offers

So, what can you expect from Golf Traveller? Picture this: Playing on some of the **world’s best golf courses**, taking part in unforgettable events, and enjoying top-notch accommodations—all tailored to fit your personal desires. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Golf Traveller is dedicated to making your golf vacations a reality. This exciting partnership with Troon, which named Golf Traveller its “Preferred International Travel Partner,” just shows how well-regarded the company is within the golf community.

GameAbove Sports Steps Up

GameAbove Sports isn’t new to the game either. They are well-known for their commitment to enhancing the sports experience through strategic investments and initiatives. Keith J. Stone, the Founder and Chairman of GameAbove, expressed immense enthusiasm about this latest partnership. “We are thrilled to partner with Sports Travel Group and Golf Traveller,” he shared. “This collaboration fits perfectly with our vision of teaming up with transformative companies that inspire and engage.” With such a solid backing, Golf Traveller is poised for even greater success.

Looking Ahead

Golf Traveller’s CEO, Euan Gillon, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the significant opportunities that this partnership brings to both organizations. “We are excited to expand our reach and deliver innovative solutions within the world of golf,” he said. This collaboration promises not just to benefit Golf Traveller but also aims to uplift the entire golfing community by connecting more people to the sport and creating pathways for growth within golf tourism.

A Broader Vision

But the ambitions of GameAbove Sports extend beyond just golf tourism. They have a keen interest in expanding their strategic portfolio. Recently, they made headlines by acquiring a significant stake in the **Brisbane Bullets** of Australia’s National Basketball League and taking majority ownership of the **BIG3’s Detroit basketball team**, set to begin play in summer 2025. They are also the title sponsor of the **2024 GameAbove Sports Bowl** in Detroit, demonstrating their versatility and commitment to various sports.

Join the Movement

As the golfing world continues to evolve, this partnership heralds a thrilling new chapter for golf lovers everywhere. With innovative travel experiences based on personal storytelling and excellence, Golf Traveller is ready to set a new standard in global golf travel.

So, if you’re itching to tee off at some breathtaking courses, keep an eye out for what’s next from this partnership. You might just find yourself on the trip of a lifetime, swinging your clubs in style with all the luxuries included! Golf enthusiasts, get ready—your next adventure is on its way!

Golfers Pick Sides: St. Andrews or Augusta? The Countdown to TGL Begins!

Golf lovers, get ready because the debate is heating up between two of the most iconic golf courses in the world! In a recent poll, star players from the PGA Tour—Rory McIlroy, Collin Morikawa, and more—shared their thoughts on whether they prefer St. Andrews or Augusta. As the countdown to the much-anticipated TGL series approaches, fans are hanging on every word from these pros.

What’s TGL About?

For those who may not be in the loop, TGL stands for The Golf League, and it’s set to kick off in January 2025, after a slight delay from its original 2024 launch date. This groundbreaking series is expected to bring a unique format to the game, where 24 elite PGA Tour players will team up in groups of four, competing on state-of-the-art simulators. It’s a mix of traditional golf and high-tech gaming, making it a must-watch event for any golf enthusiast!

The Great Course Debate

Recently, the TGL shared a fun video where players were asked to choose between St. Andrews, known as the “home of golf”, and Augusta National, famed for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament. The results were as varied as the players themselves! Rory McIlroy didn’t hold back and made his affection for St. Andrews crystal clear by selecting it as his favorite. Meanwhile, Collin Morikawa called it a balking “tie,” trying to straddle the line between two legends of golfing history.

Justin Thomas also sided with St. Andrews, saying it has a timeless charm that just can’t be beaten. But on the flip side, Rickie Fowler threw his hat in the ring for Augusta, clearly loving the energy and excitement of the Masters. Max Homa faced a tough choice, calling the selection “hard,” while Sahith Theegala found the task “brutal.” It’s clear that for these players, choosing between two legendary courses isn’t as easy as picking your favorite ice cream flavor!

Course Credentials

St. Andrews isn’t just any golf course—it has hosted famous events like the Open Championship, where the likes of Tiger Woods boast two victories in 2000 and 2005. The last time the Open graced St. Andrews was in 2022, and Cameron Smith walked away the champion, adding to this iconic course’s storied history. On the other hand, Augusta is the birthplace of the Masters, where golf dreams come to life every April. The green jacket symbolizes success, prestige, and the sweet taste of victory at one of golf’s four major tournaments.

The TGL Roster

For the inaugural TGL season starting January 7, 2025, golf fans can expect six teams of four players each, with notable names like Tiger Woods, Hideki Matsuyama, Tom Kim, Keegan Bradley, and Adam Scott also ready to tee off. With this impressive lineup, the TGL is shaping up to be one of the most exciting experiences in golf, blending technology with the classic game we all love.

The Countdown Begins!

As we gear up for the launch of TGL, one thing’s for sure: the anticipation is palpable. The players have given us a taste of the excitement, and it’s hard not to be thrilled about what’s coming. Whether you prefer the dusty old charm of St. Andrews or the manicured greens of Augusta, there’s something for every golf lover in this series. The debate will rage on, but one thing is certain: golf is taking a thrilling leap into the future!