Author: Mark Berry
How to Control Your Ball Flight in the Wind
COACH’S CORNER
by Crown Golf Performance
If you’re heading overseas for a golf trip, chances are the wind will become part of the round, especially on links-style courses across the UK and Ireland. The key isn’t to fight it. It’s to control your launch, spin and speed so the ball has less opportunity to get knocked around.
THE BIGGEST MISTAKE: SWINGING HARDER
When golfers see a strong headwind, the instinct is often to hit the shot harder. But extra speed can add spin and launch, which gives the wind even more influence over the golf ball. Instead, your goal should be a calmer, more controlled strike.



ON-COURSE THOUGHT
MORE CLUB. LESS SWING. LOWER FLIGHT.
You don’t need to manufacture a dramatic punch shot every time the wind picks up. For most golfers, simply taking more club and reducing effort is enough to bring the flight down and make distance more predictable. Let the club do the work and prioritize center contact.
COACH MARCUS’ TAKEAWAY
On your next golf trip, don’t try to beat the wind with speed. Make a balanced swing and control the ball instead of fighting the conditions.
Additionally: keep the ball position in the
middle/back of your stance.

Conquerors of Scandinavian Golf
July was host to our second annual Land of the Midnight Sun Experience. As one of our Signature Series Events it’s something we look forward to all year. 20 Golf Inspired Community Members from Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and Mississippi joined us North of the Arctic Circle for a 10 day experience across, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
For this experience we included five rounds of golf at top ranked courses in the region, including #80 in the world, Lofoten Links. But a Golf Inspired experience always has more than just golf. Our group also had the pleasure of experiences like a private chef dinner and guided tours of Copenhagen and Henningsvær. Our non-golfers experienced scenic hikes, a beach sauna, a visit to a viking museum, and more.
Scroll through this post to get the full vibe of the trip and contact us to plan your own. If this Summer Scandinavian Soiree catches your interest give us a shout, we’d love to have you for next years event. With the world’s most connected golf travel community, you won’t find better service.
Travel Smarter, Golf Inspired.
Day 1: Oslo Golf Club
After arriving in Norway the day before, the group set out for their first round of the trip, Oslo Golf Club. Oslo Golfklubb, the oldest club in Norway, is a premier par-72 parkland championship layout that blends a classic parkland style with advanced turf technology.
After the round, the group met up at Nodee Sky, a Japanese-Norwegian fusion restaurant.






Day 2: Midnight Golf
The day started with flying from Oslo to Evenes. From there they rode in chauffeured up to Lofoten Links. The jounrey there is one of the most breath taking journeys you’ll ever see.
After arriving the group checked into a Fjord-Facing 14-person house with first class amenities. Dinner that evening was a BBQ prepared by a private chef.
The highlight of the day came at the end. Due to it’s global position, the sun never sets this time year, which can only mean one thing…. midnight golf at one of the best courses in the world!








Day 3: Exploring Lofoten
The third day had an open morning to enjoy breakfast and explore the area. The Golfers had an afternoon tee time on Lofoten while the non-golfers went to the Lofotr Viking Museum.
Lofotr Viking Museum
At Borg, on the island of Vestvågøya, sits the site where a farmer’s plough struck the ruins of an 83-meter Viking longhouse in the early 1980s — the largest building of its era ever discovered in Scandinavia. The reconstructed chieftain’s hall, shaped like an inverted longship and rebuilt on the original foundations, anchors what’s become Lofoten’s biggest attraction and a must-see stop on a trip through the islands. Inside, costumed guides and craftspeople bring the Viking Age to life through demonstrations, artifacts, and a short film on the excavation, while ancient-breed animals graze freely across the grounds. In summer, visitors can walk down to the water to see a full-size Viking ship replica and try their hand at rowing, archery, or axe-throwing. It’s an immersive, family-friendly detour that pairs naturally with a golf trip to Lofoten — swap the fairway for the fjord and step thirteen centuries back in time.
Lofoten Links
Golf doesn’t get more dramatic — or more remote — than this. Set on the island of Gimsøya well above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Links is the most northerly golf course in the world, a true seaside links carved into a landscape of jagged peaks, white-sand beaches, and pounding North Atlantic surf. Designed by British architect Jeremy Turner and grown from a six-hole layout in the 1990s into a full 18 by 2015, the course has climbed steadily into Golf Digest’s World 100 rankings and is regularly cited among the top courses in Continental Europe. The signature moment comes early: the 140-meter par-3 2nd, where a two-tiered green perches on a rocky outcrop fronted by a single pot bunker — widely considered one of the most photographed holes in golf. Built into the rugged landscape, the course tests golfers against the elements like almost nowhere else, and it’s a walking-only experience by design, letting players feel every inch of the terrain.



Day 4: Henningsvær by Boat
The morning was open for those who wanted one more crack at Lofoten Links, with an optional 8am round for the golfers still chasing that scorecard. Non-golfers had their pick of a historic Viking walk, horseback riding along the beach, or a soak in the beach sauna — Lofoten has a way of making even a “day off” feel like an event.
In the afternoon, the group swapped clubs for life jackets and made the crossing to Henningsvær by RIB boat, weaving through the fjords to reach the “Venice of the North.” Known for its cluster of fishing houses perched across a handful of tiny islands, Henningsvær delivered exactly the kind of postcard scenery Lofoten is famous for.
Dinner that night was at Tobias Brygga, right on the quayside, before heading back for one last overnight at Lofoten Links.




Day 5: Farewell to the Arctic
After checking out of Kleppstad House, the group made the scenic four-hour transfer back to Evenes for their flight to Copenhagen, then continued on to Malmö, Sweden to kick off the next leg of the trip.
The group checked into Hotel Malmö Live, perfectly positioned steps from Malmö Central and the city’s beach, Ribersborg. That evening, everyone met up at Siesta Bar & Restaurant in the historic Old West neighborhood for dinner before an evening at leisure.



Day 6: Ljunghusens Golf Club
Golf day on the Falsterbo Peninsula. The golfers headed to Ljunghusens Golf Club, a heathland-links hybrid dating back to 1932, where the back nine plays out along the Baltic Sea. Meanwhile, the non-golfers set off for Fotevikens Museum, an open-air Viking village with 23 reconstructed buildings where guests could try their hand at archery, axe throwing, and Viking-era games.
The two groups reconnected for the evening at Badhytten Restaurant, a beach house tucked between the dunes at Skanörs Strand, starting with rooftop cocktails before sitting down to dinner.
Ljunghusens Golf Club
Ljunghusen means “house of heather,” and the course lives up to the name — dense clumps of heather and crowberry line the front two nines, while the closing holes run true links along the Baltic. The 27-hole facility has hosted its share of history too, including the European Men’s Team Championships in 2001, where Luke Donald set the course record with a 63.






Day 7: Barsebäck & Helsingborg
Another split day. Golfers headed to Barsebäck Golf Club’s Ocean Course, a 36-hole resort with championship-caliber golf and its own performance center, while the non-golfers made their way to Sofiero Castle in Helsingborg — the former summer residence of Prince Oscar and Princess Sophia, famous for its gardens and rhododendrons in bloom.
The non-golfers spent the rest of the morning walking Helsingborg itself, taking in the historic Sofiero Palace and the Norra Hamnen waterfront before regrouping with the golfers back in Malmö.
The group closed out the evening at Quan Restaurant, where Far East flavors met Continental European technique.






Day 8: Arrival in Copenhagen
After checking out of Hotel Malmö Live, the group made the short transfer into Copenhagen and checked into Hotel Sanders, a design-forward retreat just steps from Nyhavn and Tivoli Gardens.
With a few hours before official check-in, the group dropped bags and headed out to explore, starting with lunch at Café Sorgenfri, one of Copenhagen’s oldest pubs, tucked into a building rebuilt after the great fire of 1795. From there it was a walk past the Little Mermaid, the Royal Palace, and the harbour before an evening left open to explore the city at everyone’s own pace.






Day 9: Royal Copenhagen Golf Club
For the final round of the trip, the golfers teed off at Royal Copenhagen Golf Club — not just Denmark’s oldest club, but Scandinavia’s first, founded all the way back in 1898. Sixteen of the current 18 holes still carry the same routing they’ve had since 1928.
While the golfers were out, the rest of the group had a full day to explore Copenhagen on their own terms — shopping, canals, pastries, whatever the city called for.
Everyone came back together for a final night to remember at Café Victor, a Copenhagen institution since 1981 known as much for its people-watching as its French-Italian menu. A fitting last supper to close out ten days across three countries.






Day 10: Departure
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. With a short transfer to Copenhagen Airport, the group said their goodbyes and began the journey home, taking with them ten days of midnight tee times, fjord views, Viking history, and Scandinavian hospitality that will be hard to top.
If exploring Norway, Sweden, and Denmark under the midnight sun sounds like your kind of golf trip, give us a shout — we’d love to have you along for next year’s Land of the Midnight Sun Experience.
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The Irish Birthday Tour
This past month, one of our Inspired Community Members celebrated their 60th birthday on the Emerald Isle, hitting the links.
For such a milestone, we put together an itinerary that could deliver on even the highest standards of celebration. An eight night vacation from Dublin to Doonbeg, three rounds of golf at Jameson Links, Waterville, and Doonbeg Golf Links, and excursions to get the full Irish experience.
Scroll through this post to get the full vibe of the trip and contact us to plan your own. If this British Isles Birthday bash catches your interest give us a shout, we can duplicate this itinerary for you or craft something entirely unique. With the world’s most connected golf travel community, you won’t find better service.
Travel Smarter, Golf Inspired.
Day 1: Check-In & De-Stress
After landing in Dublin, the family took a quick ride to the nearby Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links. With an award-winning Links Golf Course, an award-winning Spa, and two award-winning restaurants, Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links appeals as much to the business traveller, as to the golf enthusiasts or the quiet-seekers in search of some coastal respite. From the more active to fitness fans, the doorstep-beach spans a five-mile, pristine sandy stretch for before-breakfast joggers or for long romantic sunrise or sunset strolls.
After checking-in the birthday man and his bride went to their scheduled spa appointment with a one hour de-stress massage. Golf Inspired can arrange and encourages spa treatments for your arrival. It shakes off air travel stiffness and gets you ready to play your best game.






Day 2: Jameson Golf Links
Jameson Golf Links is an 18 hole course spread across 203 acres and is set on the grounds of the old Jameson Estate of St. Marnocks. the course has played host to professional and amateur events including the 2008 and 2009 Ladies Irish Open and the 2021 Irish Challenge.
The course makes full use of the dunes and natural terrain to provide a layout that will please the most ardent of links purists. The elevated tees and greens, blind approaches and doglegs, not to mention the typical links sea breeze, will keep you thinking through every round.
After the mid-morning round the day was at their leisure until an evening dinner reservation. Town Yard, a modern bistro, has spectacular seaside views, glamorous Art-deco inspired interiors, and a striking bar design. it is the spot for you to relax in style while enjoying Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and one of the signature Town Yard cocktails.




Day 3: Guinness Storehouse
Ireland has more to offer than just golf. The Guinness Storehouse at St. James’s Gate is Dublin’s most iconic attraction, offering an immersive journey through the history, craft, and culture of Ireland’s most famous beer. Spread across seven dynamic floors inside a former fermentation plant, the Storehouse invites visitors to explore the story of Guinness from its humble beginnings to its global legacy.
Highlights of the Experience:
Gravity Bar: Conclude your visit with a complimentary pint at the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic 360° views of Dublin’s skyline—a perfect spot to relax and reflect on your experience.
Self-Guided Tour: Begin your adventure with a self-paced exploration of the brewing process, from the four essential ingredients to the art of fermentation. Interactive exhibits showcase the brand’s rich advertising history and its impact on Irish culture.
Guinness Academy: Learn the six-step ritual to pour the perfect pint of Guinness under the guidance of expert staff. Participants receive a certificate to commemorate their newfound skill.
Connoisseur Experience: Delve deeper into the Guinness portfolio with a guided tasting session, sampling a range of exclusive brews and learning about their unique flavor profiles.



Day 4: Cliffs of Moher
After checkout the family traveled in a private coach across the Island to Doolin Pier. From there, they would take a ferry for a quick tour of the iconic cliffs.
After the tour they checked-in at Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg in a private three bedroom links cottage. Doongbeg showcases old-world luxury and refinement in 5-star hotel suites, each uniquely crafted to ensure that every expectation is exceeded.



Day 5: Doonbeg Links
Designed by Open Champion Greg Norman and later refined by golf course architect Dr. Martin Hawtree, the 18-hole par-72 layout spans over 7,000 yards. It winds through ancient sand dunes along Doughmore Bay, offering 16 holes with ocean views and creating a course that feels both timeless and dramatically modern. With a traditional layout of nine holes out and nine back, and a unique mix of five par-3s and five par-5s, the course challenges players of all skill levels while showcasing the natural beauty of Ireland’s west coast.
For those who didn’t play that morning, we arranged a horseback leisure ride through the scenic Doughmore bay. Golf Inspired looks to find something for everyone, golfers and non-golfers alike.
They wrapped up the evening with a dinner at a Michelin-recommended, family-run restaurant and bar located in the heart of Doonbeg village.






Day 6: Waterville Golf Links
For the final round of the trip, the family headed to Waterville. In 1987, Waterville was sold to a small group of Irish Americans. They loved the game of golf and set about carrying on the history and tradition of the Links. The new owners brought together the 18th Century, four star Waterville House with the Links to create one of the finest golf and fishing resorts in the world.






Day 7: Family Photoshoot
Golf Inspired experiences are all about making once in a lifetime moments. There’s no better way to capture those moments than a family photoshoot. The rest of the day was open to explore the area.

Day 8: Luke Combs Concert
Despite the golf portion of the experience completed, the day before departure was still spectacular. The family transferred back to Dublin to end the trip with a bang at Slane Castle for a show-stopping Luke Combs Concert.

Day 9: Departure
Sadly, all trips must end. With a quick transfer to the airport, the family left Ireland with a week’s worth of laughs, golf shots, special moments.
If you are looking for an incredible experience to celebrate a special occasion or are just looking for an international getaway, Golf Inspired delivers on all expectations and lets you see the world through the eyes of a local. Don’t just take our word though, this was from the Birthday man after his trip
“What an AMAZING week! I’m on my flight home today looking at photos, reflecting on the memories and wearing a big smile. First thanks to Sean and Taylor for all the detailed planning. Especially Taylor with adjustments along the way. Noel (private chauffeur) made the trip most special. Always planning, thinking ahead and showing us the best possible spots in Ireland. Noel is a true professional!
Finally – the weather was pretty good! Big Thank You for making my 60th memorable and for taking great care of my Family. Time to start planning Julie’s 60!!!
Thanks for everything this week!!!
Slainte!!!“
Check out their itinerary if you’re looking for a Southwest Ireland experience. Also take a look at our upcoming Signature Series Events, those are guaranteed to be incredible.
We hope you’ll travel with us soon.



Why the Golf in Los Cabos Lives Up to the Setting
The setting in Los Cabos does a lot of the work for you.
Ocean on one side. Desert on the other. Light that changes throughout the day in a way that makes even a simple round feel more dramatic than it should.
But what makes a golf trip here actually come together isn’t just the location.
It’s the mix of courses.
Because when it’s done right, each round feels different—not just in layout, but in how you experience the place itself.
That’s what stands out about playing Solmar Links, Cabo del Sol, and Quivira Golf Club over the course of a few days.
They don’t overlap. They build on each other.

Solmar Golf Links
At Solmar Links, everything feels open from the start.
Set between the Pacific and the desert, the course has a kind of quiet to it, wide fairways, natural movement, and just enough challenge to keep you engaged without forcing anything. It’s the kind of round where you settle in quickly, take in the surroundings, and let the experience come to you.
The Cactus Island Green is maybe the most iconic hole in Mexico.

Cabo Del Sol
This is where the landscape starts to feel more defined. The routing moves you through a series of environments, desert stretches, elevation changes, glimpses of the ocean that come and go. It feels more structured, a little more deliberate, and you start to see how the terrain itself shapes the round.
It’s not just scenic, t’s thoughtful.
Quivira Golf Links
This is the one people talk about.
The course climbs, drops, and wraps along the coastline in a way that feels almost exaggerated at times. Clifftop holes. Views that don’t really make sense until you’re standing there. Moments where you stop mid-round just to take it in.
It’s dramatic, but in a way that still feels playable.
And that’s what ties it all together.
You’re not just playing three good courses, you’re seeing three different versions of what golf in Los Cabos can be.
Open and relaxed. Structured and varied. Elevated and unforgettable.
Each round shifts the perspective slightly.
None of them feel redundant.
And that’s usually the difference between a trip that’s good and one that actually stays with you.
Because when the golf is built this way, the rest of the experience starts to fall into place around it.
The trips that work here tend to lean into that balance—choosing the right courses, spacing them out properly, and letting the setting do the rest.
That’s exactly how the Los Cabos Golf Fiesta 2026 is structured.
A few rounds, each with a distinct feel, all connected in a way that makes the week feel complete without ever feeling rushed.
Because in a place like this, it’s not just about how much golf you play.
It’s about how different each round feels when you do.
Take a look at the full itinerary and see how the week comes together:
An Evening in Costa Navarino
It actually started that morning at breakfast.
We were sitting at Romanos Restaurant, which, on its own, is worth slowing down for. The kind of breakfast where you don’t feel rushed to finish, fresh fruit, local dishes, good coffee, and a setting that makes it easy to stay a little longer than planned.
Somewhere in the middle of it, the idea came up.
Nothing complicated, just a simple plan to head to the marina after our round at the The Bay Course and get out on the water.
There were ten of us, and that was enough.
By the time we finished the round and made our way down to the marina, the day had already settled into that easy rhythm. No one was in a rush. No one was trying to fit anything else in.
The catamaran was waiting when we got there.





We stepped on board, kicked off our shoes, and within minutes had champagne in hand and a spread of charcuterie laid out in front of us. The water was completely calm. The sky was clear. It felt like one of those afternoons that didn’t need anything added to it.
As we moved out into the bay, everything slowed down even more.
Our guide started pointing out different parts of the coastline, walking us through the history of the area, stories tied to the bay that you wouldn’t really pick up on otherwise. It added something subtle, but meaningful, to the experience.
At one point, we drifted toward a natural rock arch rising out of the water.
The boat slowed as we came into view of it, and at the same time, the sun started dropping toward the horizon. Everything lined up in a way that felt almost too clean to plan.
Someone put on “Keys” by Coldplay, and I felt me heart in my chest.
It was one of those moments where you’re aware of it happening while you’re in it.
On our we back, we passed a yacht that someone pointed out belonged to LeBron James, which felt surreal in its own way, but even that just blended into the moment.
By the time we got back to the marina, it didn’t feel like the night was over.
We walked over to Kochili, right along the water, and sat down without much of a plan.
When the server came over, we asked what he’d recommend.
He paused for a second, smiled, and said he’d take care of it.
From there, dishes just started arriving.
Fried zucchini. Greek salad. Calamari. Shrimp saganaki. Fresh grouper. Grilled mushrooms. One after another, without overthinking it, and all exactly what you’d hope it would be.







No one was checking the time. No one was asking what was next.
It just carried on.
It’s easy to think of a trip like this as being defined by the golf—and to a large extent, it is.
But it’s usually something like this that stays with you.
Not overplanned. Not overbuilt.
Just a simple idea in the morning that turns into a full day you end up talking about long after you’ve left.
It’s a good reminder that at Costa Navarino, the best parts of the trip don’t always happen on the course.




Take a look at the full itinerary and see how the week comes together:
The Golf That Defines This Scotland Trip
Not every Scotland golf trip feels the same.
The difference usually comes down to the golf you build it around.
Some itineraries try to check boxes, moving quickly, fitting in as many big names as possible. Others take a different approach, focusing less on quantity and more on the kind of experience each round delivers.
The Highlands lend themselves to the second.
Because the golf here isn’t just about reputation, it’s about variety, character, and the way each course shows you a different side of the game.
That’s exactly what this trip is built on.
It starts with something that feels close to the origin of the game.

Brora Golf Club
At Brora Golf Club, golf is still played in a way that feels almost unchanged. Sheep move freely across the fairways. Electric fences surround the greens. The conditions aren’t manufactured, they’re part of the landscape. It’s raw, a little unpredictable, and completely memorable.
From there, you get a different kind of links experience at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club.

Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club.
Set on a narrow peninsula along the Moray Firth, it’s more contained, more strategic, and shaped as much by wind and positioning as anything else. It’s the kind of course that doesn’t overwhelm you, but stays with you because of how it plays.
Then there’s Royal Dornoch Golf Club.

Royal Dornoch Golf Club – Championship Course
For a lot of golfers, this is the round they’ve been thinking about long before the trip ever takes shape. And it delivers in a way that’s hard to fully explain until you’re there, natural routing, firm ground, subtle greens, and a feeling that the course has simply existed that way for generations.
It’s followed by the Struie Course, which offers something slightly different.
Still set in the same landscape, but more forgiving, more open, and a chance to experience the setting without the same level of pressure. It balances the Championship Course in a way that makes the overall experience feel more complete.
And then there’s a shift.

Cabot Highlands – Castle Stuart Links
At Castle Stuart Links, the game takes on a more modern form. The views open up across the Moray Firth. The design feels intentional in a different way, built to highlight the setting, while still staying true to the principles of links golf.
It’s a contrast, but an important one.
Because what makes this itinerary work isn’t just the individual courses, it’s how they come together.
You move from raw and traditional, to strategic and understated, to one of the purest links experiences anywhere, and then into something more modern and expansive.
Each round adds something different. None of them feel redundant.
And that’s what defines the trip.
Not just that you’ve played Scotland, but that you’ve experienced the range of what golf here actually is.
The trips that stay with people tend to be built this way. Not overloaded, not rushed, but structured around courses that complement each other and create something more complete over the course of the week.
That’s exactly what this one does.
Take a look at the full itinerary and see how the week comes together:

When the Sun Doesn’t Set, Golf Feels Different
It’s a strange feeling the first time you look at your watch and realize it’s close to midnight, and the sun is still up. Not fading. Not setting. Just… there. At Lofoten Links, that’s not unusual. It’s the rhythm of the place during the summer months. And it changes everything about how you experience the game.
You don’t think about tee times the same way. There’s no rush to get out early. No pressure to finish before dark. The idea of “one more hole” doesn’t really apply, because there’s no clear end to the day.
You just play.










Rounds start late, almost by instinct. Dinner blends into golf. Golf blends into something that doesn’t feel tied to a schedule at all. At some point, you realize you’re teeing off at a time that would normally feel impossible.
10pm. 11pm. Even later. And it doesn’t feel unusual.
The light stays consistent, low, soft, stretched across the landscape in a way that makes everything feel a little more defined. The mountains, the water, the fairways, they all take on a kind of clarity that’s hard to describe until you see it. It’s not just that you can play at midnight.
It’s that it feels like the best time to.
There’s a quiet that sets in. Fewer people. Less movement. Just the course and the surroundings, without anything competing for your attention. You start to lose track of time in a way that doesn’t happen anywhere else. A round doesn’t feel like 18 holes, it feels like something you move through without thinking about when it ends. And that’s when it really clicks.
Once you’ve played golf with the sun still up at midnight, it’s hard to think of the game the same way again.
The trips that come together here are built around that idea—leaning into the midnight sun, rather than trying to work around it. Letting the experience define the schedule.
Take a look at the full itinerary and see what that week actually looks like:
Only two spots left!
Henrico County Transfers Crossings Golf Club to McConnell Golf
News Summary
Henrico County has transferred ownership of Crossings Golf Club to McConnell Golf for just one dollar, following unsuccessful investment plans. Originally purchased for $3 million, the county hopes McConnell Golf’s $6 million renovation will revive the 18-hole course and enhance community access. McConnell Golf plans to make the club a public facility with more amenities by 2027, fostering local amateur tournaments and possibly professional events in the future.
Henrico County Passes Golf Club’s Torch to McConnell Golf Amid Investment Challenges
In an unexpected turn of events, the scenic Crossings Golf Club, located just outside of Richmond, Virginia, is entering a new chapter after being handed over to McConnell Golf for the symbolic price of just one dollar. Yes, you read that right—a mere dollar! This decision comes after the Henrico County Economic Development Authority’s ambitious dreams of salvaging and renovating the aging 18-hole course didn’t quite pan out as they had hoped.
The $3 Million Dream
Back in 2024, the county made waves by acquiring The Crossings for a hefty $3 million. The plan was as bold as it was promising. With visions of significant renovations in mind, they teamed up with a private investment firm that was set to pour over $10 million into transforming the property. The goal? To not only revive the golf course but to also hold onto a prestigious PGA Tour Champions event in the region. However, dreams can sometimes collide with reality—and that’s exactly what happened here.
A Bumpy Two-Year Journey
Fast forward two years, and it became glaringly clear that those grand investment plans were falling apart. The expected collaboration simply didn’t come together, leading to the abrupt transfer of The Crossings to McConnell Golf. In a move that baffled many, the county decided to let go of the club for only a dollar. But wait—there’s more! McConnell Golf has pledged to invest more than $6 million in renovations for both the course and its clubhouse. Exciting, right?
What’s Next for The Crossings?
So, what does this mean for local golf enthusiasts? The renovations will not only enhance the course but also make it available to local high school golf teams and other amateur tournaments. This could even open the door for more professional-level events down the line. McConnell Golf is aiming to have The Crossings ready for play by the fall of 2027, and it will reopen as a public, daily-fee club. Talk about a win for the community!
Shifting Focus and Strategy
It’s worth mentioning that before this transition, Henrico County invested roughly $1 million in course improvements, including upgrades to the driving range and clubhouse renovations. However, the eventual departure of the PGA Tour Champions event from The Crossings—replaced by a Korn Ferry Tour at another location—made the county’s original vision feel a bit less justified. This situation highlighted the county’s evolving strategies regarding its economic development.
A New Hope for Henrico’s Golf Scene
As the company takes the reins, Henrico officials are expressing optimism that this transfer to McConnell Golf aligns perfectly with their broader economic strategy. The new leadership at the county’s Economic Development Authority is confident that this deal reflects the original intentions behind purchasing The Crossings. It’s more than just a golf club; it’s a vital piece of the region’s sports and entertainment puzzle.
The Future Looks Bright
All eyes will be on The Crossings in the coming years as the renovations get underway. The collaboration with McConnell Golf signifies a fresh start, aiming to bolster the local golf scene while providing an outlet for aspiring golfers. The community can look forward to a revamped facility that not only pays homage to the sport but also fosters the spirit of competitive play.
In closing, Henrico County’s journey with The Crossings Golf Club is a reminder that even the best-laid plans can take unexpected turns. But with McConnell Golf stepping in, there’s hope that this beloved course will flourish once again, keeping the spirit of golf alive and thriving in the Richmond area!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Four Golf Course Superintendents Honored for Sustainability
Additional Resources
Ping Reserve Stand Bag: A Stylish Companion for Golf Lovers
News Summary
The new Ping Reserve stand bag is capturing the attention of golf enthusiasts with its stylish design and functional features. Made from durable PU leather, it weighs 3 kg and offers a well-balanced carry experience. With seven pockets for storage and a sleek aesthetic, including navy blue and black options, it combines elegance with utility. Although some users have noted usability challenges with certain pockets, it presents an appealing choice for those valuing both practicality and style in their golf accessories.
Ping Reserve Stand Bag: A Stylish Companion for Golf Lovers
Golf enthusiasts, get ready to elevate your game with the new Ping Reserve stand bag. This recently launched bag is making waves in the golfing community with its blend of style, functionality, and comfort. Made from high-quality PU leather, the Reserve is not just a pretty face; it’s practical too!
Weight and Design
Weighing in at about 3 kg (6.6 lbs), the Ping Reserve is on the heavier side compared to many lightweight stand bags available today. But fear not! The weight is well-balanced, thanks to its well-padded carrying strap which distributes weight evenly and can be adjusted between single or double strap styles. This means you can carry your clubs comfortably, no matter how long your day on the course lasts.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Reserve stands out with its chic design. Available in Navy Blue and Black, there are whispers that more colors may be in the pipeline. The design features distinct nods to the Ping brand, with the logo elegantly stitched on the rear and a shiny metal badge perched above the ball pocket. These subtle touches add a level of sophistication that’s sure to turn heads.
Storage and Usability
The smallest pocket above the ball pocket appears to be designed for a quick-access rangefinder, although it isn’t magnetic. A bit of a head-scratcher for some, as a magnetic closure might have made it even more convenient. The total volume of the bag is 14 liters, providing enough room for your essentials, although some testers have reported that the interior may feel a bit cramped when trying to fit a full set of clubs.
One innovative feature is the detachable largest pocket on the right side. This allows users to reduce the bag’s weight if they don’t need to carry extra gear. It’s these clever modular storage options that help users customize their experience, adjusting both weight and storage capacity, depending on what they plan to bring along.
Quality Construction
When it comes to quality, the Ping Reserve shines bright. Its construction is undeniably solid, showcasing the soft yet durable PU leather that lends a timeless aesthetic. However, while stylish and eye-catching, some users have expressed concerns about certain pocket designs, particularly the glove pocket, which does not accommodate a rangefinder as comfortably as expected. This perplexing pocket configuration may pose usability challenges, especially when compared to other premium stand bags in the market, such as Vessel, Wilson, and Ogio.
Final Thoughts
The Ping Reserve stand bag has made a notable entrance into the world of golf accessories, capturing attention with its elegant design and sturdy features. While it may have some room for improvement in usage convenience and weight distribution, it certainly ticks many boxes, especially for those who value aesthetics alongside functionality. It seems that golf lovers who are in the market for a bag that bridges elegance and utility may want to give the Ping Reserve a closer look. Time will tell how this bag stacks up against its competitors, but for now, it stands as a refined option for anyone looking to make a statement on the green!
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Additional Resources
Engaging Conversations: The Future of Women’s Golf Culture
News Summary
Katie Dawkins, a prominent PGA Professional, convened a diverse group to discuss the evolution of women’s golf culture, reflecting on the need for greater inclusivity and support systems. The conversation highlighted traditional barriers in golf, the rise of female participation, and the necessity for cultural rethinking to align with modern lifestyles. Despite progress, challenges like feeling undervalued persist, yet a more inclusive golfing community is on the horizon.
Engaging Conversations: The Future of Women’s Golf Culture Unpacked
In an exciting exchange of ideas, Katie Dawkins, a seasoned PGA Professional with over two decades of coaching under her belt, recently gathered a diverse group of men to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of women’s golf culture. Recognized as one of Golf Monthly’s Top 50 Coaches in January 2022, Katie is passionate about not only improving the sports performance of her students but also examining the social dynamics at play.
A Catalyst for Change
This stimulating discussion was sparked by reflections shared by one of Katie’s students, Mark Slater, who returned from a trip in Northern England. He highlighted the unique experiences of female golfers in a largely male-dominated sport. It’s these kinds of dialogues that allow an opportunity to reimagine the way golf is perceived and played. While other sports like football and rugby have seen a surge in female participation over the last decade, golf still lags behind, suggesting that there’s a mountain of cultural norms to shift.
Unpacking Golf’s Traditional Structure
At some traditional golf clubs, familiar signals of a bygone era are still visible, like separate clubhouses for men and women. This clearly indicates a golf culture that hasn’t kept pace with other sports, where integration is increasingly common. However, there’s hope on the horizon. An interesting trend is emerging: an increasing number of male partners of female golfers are picking up clubs themselves. This shift hints at a burgeoning support system among couples that could help propel participation rates further.
Calls for Cultural Rethink
According to golf consultant Eddie Bullock, it’s time to take a comprehensive look at the way women’s golf is approached. The need for a cultural reimagining aligns with modern lifestyles, where many new female golfers, including business owners and professionals, are not looking to change their lives for the sport, but rather seeking to incorporate golf within their busy schedules. It’s not just about performance anymore; the social value of golf has risen significantly in importance among newer female players.
Creating Welcoming Environments
Women are increasingly attracted to group coaching and social formats that foster a sense of community and support. The introduction of the World Handicap System has made it easier for beginners to track their progress, making the sport more accessible than ever before. New data suggests that at various golf clubs, the number of events tailored to female participants is on the rise, a promising sign of progress.
Acknowledging Challenges and Progress
Despite these positive changes, many female members at golf clubs often feel undervalued, which clearly indicates the pressing need for improved inclusivity. More women are starting to join traditional male groups for play, signaling a gradual shift in attitudes. The visibility of professional women in golf is also gaining ground, thanks to organizations like the LPGA and positive media representation.
Bridging gaps for Future Generations
While the skill level of professional women golfers continues to impress, there’s a call for better-quality venues for women’s tournaments to match this growing talent. Additionally, challenges like cultural separation and a decline in young girls entering the sport only compound the need for investment in grassroots golf initiatives. Addressing these gaps is crucial in enhancing participation and performance for women, with a concerted effort needed from clubs to cater to the younger, working, and female demographic.
A Bright Future Ahead
Golf clubs are encouraged to adopt flexible membership options and create inclusive environments that attract a diverse range of players. As Katie Dawkins highlights, adapting the sport’s culture to be more welcoming is essential in making golf relatable to today’s new generation of golfers. With each thoughtful conversation, the course is being set for a brighter, more inclusive future in women’s golf culture.
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Additional Resources
- Golf Monthly: Women’s Golf Perspectives
- Wikipedia: Women in Golf
- Golf Monthly: Traits of Great Female Golfers
- Google Search: Women’s Golf News
- Golf Monthly: Lessons from Female Golf Pros
- Google Scholar: Women’s Golf
- Golf Monthly: Unsolicited Golf Advice
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s Golf
- Golf Monthly: Overcoming Nervousness in Golf
- Google News: Women’s Golf 2023


