Golf Journey Update: A Year of Reflection and Adventure

In the scenic town of Central Coast, there’s an intriguing story unfolding—a tale of a golf enthusiast whose heart took precedence over his favorite fairways. Like many, our golfer was eagerly anticipating what seemed to be another phenomenal year of golf travel, but then life threw a curveball. The stark reminder of our fleeting time on this planet hit home when his father suffered a stroke last October. It was a day the family will never forget.

Finding What Matters Most

“Tragic events will change your perspective in a hurry,” he reflected. The worry for his father’s health became the priority, leading to the cancellation of much-anticipated trips to iconic destinations like Cabot St. Lucia, and of course, the legendary Pebble Beach. “Looking back, it was the best decision I ever made,” he shared. Being there for his dad during such a crucial time helped him put life’s priorities into perspective. “Family and friends are what really matter—not golf or work,” he said, and indeed, he won’t take those relationships for granted again. With his father now recovering well at 79, the journey continues.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As 2024 wraps up, he finds himself filled with a renewed enthusiasm for life and golf, filled with appreciation for the journey he’s had so far. “After 25 years in this career, I’m looking forward to the next 25, God-willing,” he said with a hopeful smile. So, let’s take a look at his 2024 golf travel awards, reflecting a year that balanced highs with profound personal growth.

Top Picks From 2024

• Pacific Dunes at Bandon Dunes remains his all-time favorite. Celebrating its 25th anniversary meant he got to play all seven courses—a memory etched beautifully in his mind.
• North Berwick’s West Links received high praise as a top-10 course, especially after playing it for the first time in a decade. “It hasn’t lost its charm,” he remarked.
• He relished the chance to play both Newport Country Club and Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. “These East Coast treats were special for a left coaster like me!”
• Kingsbarns was a fortuitous experience after a fellow golfer gifted his spot. “What a stroke of luck,” he chuckled.

Unique Experiences and Memorable Moments

From playing captivating courses to attending major events like the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, 2024 was packed with golden moments. He had a treat engaging with celebrities at the American Century Championship and couldn’t help but share, “Larry the Cable Guy tossed my wife a souvenir ball!”

Even in the world of luxury stays, he took note. The Omni Homestead outshined past favorites like the Breakers thanks to the gorgeous restoration of the historic property. “I loved every creak and crooked stairway,” he gushed.

His love for golf doesn’t overshadow his appreciation for exquisite destinations as evidenced by his stay at Nobu Los Cabos, which blew him away with its luxury. But he still holds fondness for Pechanga Casino Resort in Temecula, a hidden gem amidst SoCal hotspots.

A Year to Remember

Transforming Golf at Dormie Club in West End

Once upon a time in West End, North Carolina, a modest trailer greeted golf lovers pulling into the Dormie Club, with a parking lot that was nothing to write home about. But let’s skip ahead to today and marvel at the transformation! What used to be a simple entrance has turned into a stunning experience, featuring a grand gate and a sleek driveway that leads to a modern clubhouse with sharp angles and expansive glass walls. Talk about a glow-up!

The Driving Force Behind the Changes

According to Zach Peed, the president of Dormie Network, the secret sauce to their success lies in their keen eye for clubs that are begging for a little TLC. By improving golf courses and enhancing lodging amenities, Dormie Network is fulfilling a real need in the golfing world—an unforgettable, distraction-free golfing getaway.

From Fairways to Friendliness

Rising to the Occasion

Memberships That Fit the Bill

A New Golf Course to Explore

Hold onto your golf clubs—this September, Dormie Network unveiled the GrayBull course in Nebraska’s picturesque Sandhills. Renowned architect David McLay Kidd, creator of the original Bandon Dunes course, has designed a gem that “is neither too flat nor too steep.” Sounds like the perfect spot to swing a club!

The Future of Golf at Dormie Network

Suspension Shenanigans at Tiburón Golf Club

What Did He Do?

According to the DP World Tour, Penge placed bets on various golf events, which goes against their strict Integrity Program. An Independent Disciplinary Panel found that he violated Regulation 3(a)(i) of the integrity guidelines. The good news? Penge was not betting on himself or on any of the tournaments during his participation. The panel confirmed that this meant the integrity of those events remained intact. Phew! Still, it’s a serious breach, and Penge is now paying the price.

Penge’s Punishment

A Troubling Trend

Penge’s History

His Side of the Story

Community Reaction

Looking Ahead

Final Thoughts

Gurugram Gears Up for a Star-Studded Golf Showdown!

Hey golf fans! Get ready to mark your calendars because the excitement is real in Gurugram, India! From January 30 to February 2, the buzzing city will play host to the International Series India presented by DLF. This isn’t just any other golf tournament, this is where big names come to swing it out, and this year, we’ve got a special treat for you!

Meet Bryson DeChambeau: The Powerhouse

Brace yourselves as Bryson DeChambeau, the reigning champion of the U.S. Open, is set to take center stage! Yep, you heard that right. DeChambeau, who recently snagged his second U.S. Open title, is teaming up with Indian superstar Anirban Lahiri for this thrilling event. How cool is that? The aura of the defending champion adds an extra layer of jazz, making this tournament a milestone moment as it’s the first time a major champion is competing in an official event on the Indian subcontinent. Can you feel the buzz?

What’s Cooking in Gurugram?

The tournament, boasting a whopping prize purse of US$2 million, is just the tip of the iceberg as it marks the first of 10 elevated events on the 2025 Asian Tour calendar. Expect a mix of players from all around the world as they flock to the gorgeous DLF Golf and Country Club. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this spectacular display of talent, skill, and showmanship!

The Dynamic DeChambeau

Now, let’s get back to Bryson DeChambeau for a moment. This 31-year-old isn’t just your average golfer. He’s become a sensation thanks to his unique approach to the game. From his significant efforts to gain weight for driving ranges that leave everyone in awe, to crafting his own clubs, he’s anything but typical. With a whopping 1.6 million subscribers on YouTube and over 2.1 million followers on Instagram, DeChambeau is breaking the mold and introducing a new generation of fans to the thrills of golf.

More Tournaments Coming Up!

The International Series India isn’t a standalone occurrence. It’s the first tournament backed by LIV Golf that will be hosted in this region, setting the stage for even more exciting events in places like **Macau**, **Morocco**, **Hong Kong**, **Indonesia**, and **Saudi Arabia**. How about that for a globe-trotting sports adventure? This series promises to keep the excitement alive as players vie for a pathway to the prestigious LIV Golf League!

Why Golf Fans Should Tune In

Catch the Action!

So, grab your hats and sunblock, because this golf fiesta is just around the corner. The vibes in Gurugram are sure to be electric as players from various backgrounds come together for a once-in-a-lifetime golfing event. For more details, you can keep an eye out for updates as we get closer to the dates. Let’s get ready for some unforgettable swings and spectacular shots!

Golf Travel Writers Gear Up for a Big January in Orlando!

BOSTON – Mark your calendars, golf aficionados!

Big things are happening this January for the Golf Travel Writers of America as they prepare to celebrate their 20th anniversary in 2025. That’s right, the organization is kicking things off with two exciting events planned during the annual PGA Show taking place in sunny Orlando, Florida. So if you’re into golf travel, you might want to keep your eyes peeled for what’s on the horizon!

Networking and Fun Await!

The stage is set with a member outing tentatively scheduled for **Friday, January 24** at the beautiful Heathrow Legacy Country Club, located just south of Orlando. This will not only be a chance to enjoy some fabulous golf but is likely to be the **first of several events** coming up this year, all thanks to a fresh leadership team taking the helm.

Another important date to mark on your calendars is the association’s **annual business meeting**, which is taking place just a couple of days earlier, on **Wednesday, January 22**. This meeting will kick off at **11 a.m.** in Room 312C, the Media Work Room at the Orange County Convention Center, where the PGA Show is being held. It’s the perfect place for writers and editors to discuss what’s next for the organization and the industry as a whole.

But wait, there’s more! The business meeting will also lead into the much-anticipated **International Network of Golf’s Media Awards presentation**, starting at **12:30 p.m.** This will be a terrific opportunity for networking, celebration, and honoring those who’ve made a mark in the world of golf media.

All Eyes on Heathrow Legacy Country Club!

Now let’s talk about where all the action will be happening. The Heathrow Legacy Country Club is owned and operated by Concert Golf Partners, which has quite the portfolio, managing **36 upscale private clubs** across the U.S. Recently, they put in a whopping **$3 million into upgrades** at this two-course facility that boasts both stunning scenery and top-notch amenities!

One course at Heathrow was designed by the well-known golf course architect Ron Garl, while the other features the renowned designs of Tom Fazio. Both courses promise an exhilarating experience for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the atmosphere is sure to be friendly and welcoming.

Excited Faces Expected!

The excitement in the air is palpable. According to the association’s executive director, Len Ziehm, “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.” This is not only about camaraderie; it’s also an opportunity for writers to gain fresh insights into the world of golf travel, network with fellow writers, and even catch a glimpse of what’s to come in 2025.

So whether you’re attending for the networking, the golf, or just the love of the game, January in Orlando is shaping up to be a blast! With all the events lined up, who wouldn’t want to be part of this golf extravaganza?

In Conclusion

As the Golf Travel Writers of America gear up for a lively start to 2025, there’s no doubt that these events during the PGA Show will be memorable. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to mingle with industry folks, enjoy some spectacular golf, and be part of the excitement surrounding such a vibrant group of golf enthusiasts. So grab those clubs, polish those writing tools, and get ready for what promises to be a fantastic start to the new year!

Golf Fever: A Year of Triumphs, Trials, and Course Adventures

As we wave goodbye to 2024, it’s hard not to feel a little nostalgic—especially for the golfing highlights that came with this year. For one lucky golfer, 2024 was filled with numerous achievements on the greens, even hitting the wave-your-golf-clubs-in-the-air milestone of playing over 600 golf courses. Yes, you heard that right! The calendar year closed with almost 700 courses under the belt, with hopes of kicking off 2025 at the first new course this January.

A Year Full of Lessons

Through this golfing journey, our golf enthusiast discovered a valuable lesson: bigger does not always mean better. After spending time on courses like Pinehurst No. 3 and Sedge Valley—both clocking in at under 6,000 yards—the notion became a firm belief. Golf can be invigorating when it’s quicker, quirkier, and free from the pretension that often accompanies larger, sprawling courses. After all, who wouldn’t love a round that feels more like a charming adventure rather than a daunting trek?

Tax-Free Memories

Florida added a spice of excitement this year too, with trips to witness golf in its live and unfiltered glory. Peter Malnati’s triumphant win at the Valspar was emotional and thrilling, and following it up with a round at Innisbrook’s Copperhead course only ramped up the excitement. The beauty of the course and its challenge stood as a testament to the vibrant golf scene in the Sunshine State.

Year-End Roundup

By the end of 2024, our golfer had played a whopping 96 rounds, including 87 regular 18-hole rounds. A staggering 79 different courses were explored, of which 54 were completely new. Among the most memorable moments was a jaw-dropping low score of 55 at Mountain Shadows—but let’s be real, that was a par-3 course! The highlight rounds included 67 and 68 at Sand Valley’s original course and County Louth Golf Club, respectively, where sleep-deprived and fresh off the plane, the magical swing was just right. Who knew sleepwalking could reap such rewards on the golf course?

The Ups and Downs

Of course, not every round came with a smile. A dismal score of 81 at Sandridge after a busy week of travel served as a a tough reminder: even seasoned golfers have off days. But resilience is key, right? By the year’s end, the golf handicap index stood at a respectable +1.1.

Course Highlights

International Adventures

Food, Drinks, and Golf

No golfing adventure is complete without some hearty meals and refreshing drinks! From the top-notch offerings at PGA National Resort’s Sushi by Bou to the casual indulgence of a classic burger at Kopp’s, the culinary side enriched the golfing rendezvous. And, let’s not forget the nostalgic sip of Magner’s hard cider during rounds in Ireland—nothing like a cold drink to kick back after a day on the course!

Looking Ahead

Golf Watches: Elevate Your Game in San Diego

Hey there, golf enthusiasts! If you’re looking to up your game this season right here in sunny San Diego, you might want to consider investing in a golf watch. We’re diving into the latest and greatest in golf technology, and trust me, these watches are packed with features to help you hit that perfect shot.

Why Golf Watches are Game Changers

Let’s face it: golf can be a tricky sport. You’ve got to navigate course layouts, select the right club, and, of course, keep an eye on your score. This is where golf watches come into play. With amazing GPS capabilities and course tracking, these watches provide maps right on your wrist, making it easier than ever to make smart decisions as you swing away. Plus, they come loaded with features like swing speed measurement and game metrics tracking, giving you insights into your performance.

Popular Picks to Consider

For those of you on a budget but still wanting some serious features, the Garmin Approach S12 is an excellent choice. With detailed maps of over 42,000 courses worldwide, it syncs with the Garmin Golf app for a ton of data right at your fingertips, making it practical without breaking the bank. Plus, its battery life will leave you worry-free, lasting for weeks!

If you are all about the luxury experience, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition is your go-to. It’s sleek, chic, and super robust. Not only does it look fabulous on your wrist, but it’s also got more than 40,000 preloaded courses and a virtual caddie that remembers your shots. Just be ready to shell out some serious cash.

More Features, More Fun

One standout is the Garmin Approach S62. So, what makes it special? It packs a Virtual Caddie feature that considers not just distance but also wind speed and direction to help you choose your clubs wisely. Plus, you get touch targeting on an extra-large screen, making it easier to see where you hit the ball. The battery life? It lasts up to 14 days in smartwatch mode. Need I say more?

Now, if shot detection is your jam, you might want to check out the Shot Scope V3. This sleek and slim watch features automatic shot detection and comes with 16 tracking tags that identify your clubs. However, the screen resolution is on the lower side, so while you get excellent functionality, you may find the display less appealing.

Considerations Before You Buy

When picking the right golf watch for you, consider a few factors. First, think about what features you actually need. If you’re just starting, advanced features might not be worth splurging on. Do you find yourself struggling to choose clubs? Go for a watch with higher-end options like the virtual caddie. On the other hand, if you’re a weekend player, the Garmin Approach S12 could suffice.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on a Year of Golf, Family, and Adventure

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s hard not to dive into those bittersweet memories that shaped this past year, especially for our golf-loving community. From stunning greens to the heartfelt challenges of family, this year was a rollercoaster ride for many. Here in the vibrant city of Newport, I had a front-row seat to the ups and downs, and I can’t wait to share it all!

A Wake-Up Call

Anyone who’s ever faced a health scare within their family understands how life-altering it can be. In October, I almost lost my father to a stroke. Just when I thought I was gearing up for another stellar year in golf travel, everything changed instantly. Trips to exciting places like Cabot St. Lucia and Pebble Beach had to take a backseat. Instead of chasing birdies, I was focused on something far more important—being there for my dad during a tough recovery.

Golfing Highlights

• Pacific Dunes at Bandon Dunes – Always my favorite, I had the joy of playing six of the seven courses during its 25th anniversary. Such memories!
• North Berwick’s West Links – It had been a decade since my last visit, and it easily reaffirmed its spot among my top 10 courses ever.
• Newport Country Club & Robert Trent Jones Golf Club – What an East Coast treat! Both courses gave me that extra thrill I didn’t know I was missing.

And surprising myself, I had the opportunity to play Kingsbarns, thanks to the generosity of a fellow golfer who won a spot and passed it to me. Isn’t that what golf is all about?

Warm Memories

When I think of locations that truly impressed, the mansion at Newport Country Club stands out. It’s pure classic charm! Meanwhile, the unique holes at the Club at Lac La Belle, located in the quiet corners of Wisconsin, took me aback. It’s the little surprises in overlooked spots that keep us golfing, right?

Eventful Experiences

This year also brought some exciting events. For instance, I attended the American Century Championship right by the stunning shores of Lake Tahoe, where I had the chance to snag a selfie with Charles Woodson—what a weekend!

Then, there’s the magic of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Every time, I find something new to admire. Plus, who could forget the spectacular comeback of the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event? A wonderful showcase of culinary delights that truly rejuvenated the senses.

A Passion for the Game

As a lifelong golfer, I can’t help but wonder about the beautiful and unique adventures golf holds for all of us. The thrill of nearly sinking my putt at Pasatiempo or executing that breathtaking sand shot at North Berwick reminded me why I fell in love with the game in the first place.

Looking Ahead

Exciting Golf Course Collaboration Unfolds in the World of Sports

In a significant move shaking up the golf landscape, a shiny new partnership has blossomed. Global sports and entertainment agency 54 and well-respected golf course development company Turfgrass have decided to team up. Together, they’re offering an impressive array of services that cover everything from construction planning to long-term management of golf courses. For golf enthusiasts and stakeholders, this collaboration could mean so much more than just a pretty green backdrop!

A Winning Combination

Born back in 1997, Turfgrass has built up a reputation that spans across the globe, with offices in key regions like Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. After recently announcing plans to expand into Asia, their goal is clear: guide golf projects every step of the way. Whether it’s the earliest planning stages, navigating through construction, or focusing on sustainable maintenance and operations, Turfgrass’ seasoned experts offer unmatched guidance.

The company has already made its mark by advising over 270 golf courses worldwide, including legendary venues like Adare Manor—set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup—and Wentworth Club, known for hosting the prestigious PGA Championship. As golf continues to grow and evolve, partnerships like this are vital to support both sides of the sport.

Room for Growth

On the other side of the partnership, 54 has been on a spectacular growth trajectory, especially in the last 18 months. Their advisory and operations divisions have expanded, allowing them to provide quality services to various sports clubs, rightsholders, and even governmental bodies across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. With their ability to connect sports development to national initiatives, the sky seems to be the limit!

Expert Insights

Ed Edwards, CEO of 54, lauded the success of their advisory and management services. He shared, “Our approach gives clients a turn-key solution that covers everything from initial feasibility and business planning through to operational management of sustainable assets.” It’s clear that both companies recognize the importance of collaborating for the betterment of golf.

Turfgrass is viewed as an all-star when it comes to course development and agronomy. Edwards believes that joining forces with Turfgrass is a strategic move that signals their commitment to leading the industry. Not just for golf, this partnership aims to be the partner of choice for a wide variety of facilities seeking enhanced standards and operations.

Charting New Territories

The founder of Turfgrass, John Clarkin, couldn’t be more thrilled about this new venture. He expressed genuine excitement about what this collaboration will bring. “Uniting our business acumen and international reach with our depth of both development and agronomic expertise, we can now offer end-to-end solutions,” he said. They aim to provide not just strategic guidance but also ensure top-tier conditioning of courses and operational efficiency.

What’s more, the emphasis on environmental stewardship in their mission symbolizes a trend toward sustainability that’s increasingly important in today’s world. Clarkin asserts that this partnership redefines possibilities within the golf industry, paving the way for venues to reach their full potential while enriching the game itself.

The Future of Golf

Breaking News from the World of Golf: Exciting Partnership in the Making!

In a bold move that’s sure to create buzz in the golf community, a global sports and entertainment agency, 54, has announced its strategic investment in Turfgrass, an international golf course development company. This new partnership aims to revolutionize the way golf courses are developed and maintained, integrating 54’s extensive experience in strategic planning and operational solutions with Turfgrass’s impressive track record in delivering end-to-end golf course development.

A Win-Win Collaboration

Founded back in 1997, Turfgrass has built a strong global presence, boasting offices in Europe, the Middle East, and the United States—and plans to expand into Asia soon! With more than 270 golf courses under its belt, Turfgrass has consulted on some of the sport’s most prestigious venues, including the renowned Adare Manor, which is set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, and the iconic Wentworth Club where the BMW PGA Championship takes place.

The partnership aims to offer golf projects guidance from the early planning phases all the way through construction, sustainable maintenance, and ongoing operations. This kind of comprehensive approach is rare in the industry and is backed by a team of seasoned experts, including renowned figures like Brad Owen, the former senior director of agronomy at Augusta National.

The Growing Demand for Expertise

54 has seen impressive growth in its advisory and operations divisions over the past 18 months, extending its services to facilities and destinations worldwide. They’re not only assisting leading sports clubs and rightsholders but also advising government bodies and investment funds on how sports can drive national development. This investment in Turfgrass signifies their commitment to being a leader in the golf course development sector.

“Our tremendous growth and success have allowed us to widen our services—not just for elite golf courses but for a variety of sports facilities and organizations,” said Ed Edwards, CEO of 54. He continued, “By combining our strategic development and business planning skills with Turfgrass’s expertise in construction and management, we aim to provide investors and clubs with a turn-key solution to elevate their business performance.”

Turfgrass Brings Expertise to the Table

For Turfgrass, this partnership isn’t just a business move—it’s a chance to take their operations to the next level. “We are honored to embark on this exciting partnership with 54,” stated John Clarkin, founder of Turfgrass. He added, “By merging their business skills and international reach with our development and agronomy knowledge, we can provide an all-encompassing solution. This partnership will redefine the possibilities in the golf industry.”

What Lies Ahead?