News Summary

Dream Golf is set to unveil Old Shores, a new 18-hole public golf course in the Florida Panhandle, inspired by traditional Scottish designs. Located 30 miles north of Panama City Airport, this course promises a unique golfing experience amidst stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity. With the approval of a Development Order, construction will begin once environmental permits are secured, fulfilling the growing demand for golf destinations in Florida.

New Golf Course Coming to the Florida Panhandle

Excitement is in the air as Dream Golf, a name synonymous with creating some of the most acclaimed golf courses, has received the green light to proceed with a fantastic new project. Get ready, golf enthusiasts, because Old Shores, a spectacular 18-hole public golf course, is set to grace the beautiful landscapes of the Florida Panhandle.

The Approval Process

This thrilling development comes with the approval of a Development Order from Washington County. With all the necessary permissions in place, Dream Golf is ready to embark on this exciting journey. The course aims to meld the stunning surroundings with the game’s rich history. The dream team behind this course includes the talented golf architect, Tom Doak, renowned for his masterful designs found at places like Bandon Dunes and Sand Valley.

A Taste of Scotland

Location, Location, Location

What’s the scoop on the location? Well, the course will occupy an impressive area of approximately 1,400 acres situated just 30 miles north of the Panama City Airport. This spot boasts sandy soils and unique topography, including karst depressions that promise to create some dramatic golf holes. With such a foundation, it’s no wonder that Michael Keiser from Dream Golf describes the location as simply gorgeous.

Natural Beauty

The Future of Old Shores

The Growing Golf Demand

Final Thoughts

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A small plane made an emergency crash landing on a golf course during a Sunday afternoon. Miraculously, both occupants walked away with only minor scratches. Witnesses described the alarming scene as golfers ducked for cover. Following the incident, emergency services arrived promptly, and an investigation into the cause of the plane’s power loss has begun. Despite the chaos, the golf course continued operations, showcasing the resilience of the community.

Two Unharmed After Plane Crash-Lands on Golf Course

What was supposed to be a leisurely Sunday afternoon turned into a surprising scene for golfers on a beautiful course when a small plane made an emergency crash landing right on the greens! The incident unfolded around 3:45 p.m. near the driving range, as a small aircraft lost power mid-flight, leaving two individuals to execute a desperate landing maneuver. Luckily, both occupants walked away with just minor scratches!

A Close Call for Golfers

Imagine this: you’re enjoying a sunny day, swinging your clubs under the big blue sky. Suddenly, you hear the ominous roar of an engine going bad! That’s exactly what happened to several golfers who witnessed the plane’s flamenco out of control. Richard Peters, a witness, noted that the airplane was struggling before it descended toward the green. Golfers scrambled to find cover, some ducking out of the way, while others just stood wide-eyed at the unexpected aerial drama unfolding right before them.

Help is Just a Swing Away

After the plane made its rough landing, the duo inside was in a bit of a pickle. Fortunately, quick-thinking bystanders sprang into action. Equipped with nothing but a golf club, they smashed a window to help the passengers escape. With adrenaline pumping, the pilot and the passenger crawled out of the wreckage, relieved to have avoided serious injury after what could have been a disastrous incident.

The Aftermath on the Course

Once outside, the pilot managed to contact emergency services. When first responders arrived, they found the aircraft flipped upside down beneath a low-lying tree limb near a practice putting green. The entire scene prompted a rapid response from local authorities, with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department quickly cordoning off the crash site with yellow tape. Golf balls were scattered amidst the debris, creating an almost surreal scene as the investigation kicked off.

Initial Worries Put to Rest

Initially, fire officials reported that the plane’s occupants were headed to the hospital for further evaluation. However, reports soon confirmed that neither of the individuals required hospitalization after being assessed by L.A. County Fire personnel. Luckily, they escaped with only minor injuries, which is a relief given the circumstances!

Cleaning Up and Investigating

As the initial excitement began to fade, a HAZMAT team also showed up to check for potential leaks from the damaged aircraft. Safety always comes first, and these professionals ensured that everything was under control. Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have started their investigation to determine exactly what caused the aircraft to lose power and crash onto the green. They are working diligently to figure things out, making sure that similar situations can be avoided in the future.

Business as Usual on the Golf Course

Against all odds, the golf course remained open during the ongoing investigation. Players continued to swing clubs nearby, undeterred by the earlier chaos. In fact, for those on the course, it became a talking point—a mere chapter in a day that was expected to be filled with chip shots and putts.

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Jim Suttie and Mark Durland, two esteemed golf instructors from Southwest Florida, have gained national recognition. Suttie was inducted into the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame, while Durland appeared on the Top 100 Teachers list. Their contributions to the local golf community are celebrated, alongside various upcoming tournaments that invite golfers to participate and support charitable causes.

Two Local Golf Instructors Swing into the Spotlight!

In the world of golf, it’s always exciting to see our local talent getting national recognition. Recently, Jim Suttie and Mark Durland were highlighted by a prominent golf magazine as two of the best instructors in the game. Isn’t that fantastic? Both instructors are making waves in Southwest Florida and putting our area on the golf map!

Jim Suttie: A Legendary Instructor

Jim Suttie isn’t just your typical golf instructor; he’s a real legend in the business. He runs the teaching academy at TwinEagles, where golfers of all skill levels come for expert advice. What makes him even more remarkable is his twice-monthly tips column in the Daily News, offering practical guidance for everyone, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro.

To make his accolades even sweeter, Suttie was inducted into the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame in 2019. This special honor is reserved for the elite of golf instruction, including other big names like Hank Haney and Dave Pelz. It certainly speaks volumes about his skill and dedication to the game! Suttie’s long list of accolades includes being named the National PGA Teacher of the Year and ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 50 Teachers. Plus, he’s also shared his knowledge as a former golf coach at Florida Gulf Coast University and Northwestern University.

Mark Durland: A Rising Star

Mark Durland is also making waves with his own academy at Naples Grande. For the third time now, he has made it onto the Top 100 Teachers list. Durland is recognized among the best, having previously been titled a Golf Digest Best Teacher in Florida in 2015 and repeatedly mentioned as one of the Best Young Teachers in America. It’s clear he’s got a knack for helping golfers improve their game!

Tee Off with Tournaments

Mickey Moore and Eric Fredbeck, both scored a hole-in-one on No. 8. Talk about a lucky day!

Beyond local accolades, the charity golf scene is buzzing with activity. Mark your calendars for the Fairways for the Future tournament happening on April 22 at Lely Resort’s Flaming Island Course. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the event, and don’t forget – if you register after March 27, the entrance fee jumps from $250 to $300!

Another event to look out for is the Marine Corps League tournament set for April 6 at Glen Eagle Golf and Country Club, benefitting local MCL activities. Then, just a couple of days later on April 8 is the St. Vincent de Paul Golf Tournament at Quail Creek Country Club. This event supports the “Meals on Wheels” program, so swing those clubs for a good cause!

More Exciting Events Ahead

A youth-focused tournament will take place on April 22 at Lely Resort, along with the Vasari Cares Foundation Golf Championships on April 15, supporting the Golisano Children’s Hospital and Habitat for Humanity. These events highlight the amazing community spirit within the golf world.

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Yeamans Hall Golf Course in South Carolina is more than just a golfing venue; it’s a treasure trove of memories and personal growth. The author reflects on their journey from a college freshman struggling to qualify for a major tournament to finally enjoying a day at one of America’s top golf courses. Their story encapsulates the challenges and beauty of Yeamans Hall, highlighting its breathtaking views and strategic complexities. As they return a decade later, the course symbolizes not just personal achievements but the relationships and experiences forged over the years.

Yeamans Hall Golf Course: A Personal Journey Through Memories and Championship Challenges

A Newcomer’s Challenge

The author’s journey with Yeamans Hall began back in the fall of 2013 when they kicked off their college life as a freshman at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. As many young golfers do, they dreamed of making a name for themselves on the course. However, their first encounter with Yeamans Hall didn’t go as planned. They didn’t qualify for the Cougar Classic, a significant tournament played at Yeamans Hall that year. Meanwhile, their teammates couldn’t stop raving about the course’s wide fairways and challenging features, creating a sense of envy and determination in the author’s heart.

Teammates painted vivid pictures of their rounds, describing the delightful undulations of the greens and the stunning views of the water. With each story, the author felt a growing desire to experience this legendary course for themselves. Fueled by their teammates’ excitement, the author dove into practicing harder than ever.

Reaching the Goal

Fast forward to 2014—the hard work paid off, and they finally qualified for the Cougar Classic at Yeamans Hall! Just imagining stepping onto that revered course thrilled the author. Their experience was nothing short of magical, especially when they were greeted by the soulful sound of a bagpiper playing somewhere in the distance as they approached the first hole engulfed in morning fog. It set the tone for a day filled with challenges and breathtaking beauty.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Fast forward to October 2024, and the author found themselves returning to Yeamans Hall, filled with nostalgia. They reflected on a decade of personal growth, achievements, and fond memories of fantastic rounds logged throughout the years. What a difference ten years make! This time around, they were ready for the challenges that lay ahead.

Yeamans Hall is dotted with formidable features including pesky cross bunkers, elevated greens that dare golfers to take risks, and iconic par-3 holes that demand precision and finesse. Each swing on this majestic course requires not just skill, but also strategic thinking, especially when it comes to navigating those elevated greens. A miscalculated shot could lead to the ball dangling in collection areas or trapped in deep bunkers—definitely not an ideal spot for any golfer!

Achieving a two-putt par on those expansive, undulating greens felt like a major victory, a testament to the dedication and skill developed over the years. After all, a good ball-striking game is a must on this glorious course.

Scenic Splendor and Refreshing Breaks

As the author navigated their way through the course, they couldn’t help but be constantly awed by the breathtaking views around every corner. From the picturesque waterfront vistas to the Spanish Moss swaying gently from the towering trees, every sight was a feast for the eyes and added to the overall experience of being at Yeamans Hall.

For a little refreshment, the halfway house was a delightful pitstop. The author indulged in cold Gatorade and tasty Nekot crackers, which were just the pick-me-up needed to keep them energized and focused for the remainder of the round.

Closure on the 18th

Wrapping up the day on the 18th fairway felt symbolic. The enchanting clubhouse that awaited was a perfect capstone to a round that would be etched in memory forever. The author couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had brought them back here—from a young student struggling to qualify for a tournament to someone capable of cherishing a full day at one of the nation’s top golf courses.

In the end, Yeamans Hall is more than just a beautiful course; it’s a place full of memories, growth, and relationships forged over something as simple and enjoyable as a round of golf. As the author stepped off the last green, they carried away a treasure trove of memories, eagerly anticipating their next round at this spectacular venue.

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Evan Beck has claimed victory at the 2024 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship held at Kinloch Golf Club, defeating Bobby Massa by an impressive margin of 9 and 8. Beck’s exceptional performance included a bogey-free round and a 6-foot putt that sealed his win. This victory marks the second largest margin of victory in the tournament’s history and secures Beck a spot at the 2025 U.S. Open and possibly the Masters. His maturity and focused gameplay have set a promising stage for his future in golf.

Big Win for Evan Beck at the 2024 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship!

In an exciting showcase of skill and determination, Evan Beck emerged as the champion of the 2024 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship held at the stunning Kinloch Golf Club. On September 26, Beck delivered an impressive performance, defeating his opponent Bobby Massa with a staggering margin of 9 and 8. Talk about a decisive victory!

A Knockout Performance

The match came to an end on the 28th hole, where Beck confidently rolled in a 6-foot putt for par, sealing his fate as the champion. Beck’s day started off excellently, as he played a completely bogey-free morning round, posting a score that was the equivalent of 3-under 68. By the time it was lunchtime, he had built a remarkable 8-up lead, showcasing his sheer talent on the course.

It’s also worth noting that this victory was one for the history books, marking the second largest margin of victory in U.S. Mid-Amateur history. It’s safe to say, Beck made quite an impression!

A Bright Future Ahead

With this win, Beck has secured his spot in the much-anticipated 2025 U.S. Open at the prestigious Oakmont Country Club. There’s also a likely invitation awaiting him at the Masters in 2025. These opportunities are a testament to Beck’s years of dedication and hard work in the competitive world of amateur golf.

A Journey Worth Celebrating

It’s not Beck’s first time achieving success within the sport. He has a solid history, having previously claimed the runner-up position in the 2008 U.S. Junior Amateur and finishing as a runner-up last year at the U.S. Mid-Am at Sleepy Hollow Country Club. Ranked No. 32 in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, Beck is also a two-time Virginia State Open champion, which further underscores his impressive credentials.

A Special Venue

Beck’s victory is particularly poignant as the Kinloch Golf Club holds a special place in his heart. Originally slated to hold the U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship in 2020, the event was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s championship even more significant. Recognized as the best golf course in Virginia by Golf Digest, Kinloch has earned its reputation through a blend of classic design with modern architectural elements, featuring dazzling split fairways and a breathtaking layout.

Luxurious Amenities and Pride of Place

The Kinloch Golf Club offers top-notch amenities, including multiple practice greens, a comprehensive clubhouse, and meticulously maintained practice facilities that keep golfers coming back for more. Co-designer Marvin “Vinny” Giles, a celebrated figure in amateur golf, takes pride in the club’s esteemed reputation, which has frequently earned national recognition in top courses lists.

Maturity on the Course

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