April 8, 2024 News No Comments

The Home Course Duo Prevails

PGA Professional Mitch Runge, Head Professional, and Shane Prante, Assistant Professional from The Home Course in DuPont, WA, clinched victory in the PNW PGA Pro-Assistant Championship by a mere stroke. Their collective prowess culminated in an impressive 17-under par four-ball score over the two-day tournament, held on March 18-19, 2024.

Basking in spring sunshine and enjoying temperatures ranging from the high 50s to the lower 60s, players were treated to optimal conditions for a riveting competition at beautiful Tacoma Country & Golf Club.

Mitch Runge previously won the championship in 2022 alongside Assistant Professional John Cassidy. Shane Prante brings his own winning history to the table, having secured victory in the same event back in 2017, partnering with Head Professional Mike Fosnick.

The team hailing from Oswego Lake Country Club in Lake Oswego, OR, led by Director of Instruction Scott Erdmann and Assistant Professional Brady Sharp, secured second place honors.

This event wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our esteemed sponsors. We extend our gratitude to Farmers Insurance – Jared Bouchey Agency, our title sponsor for the third consecutive year. Additionally, we warmly welcome back Sally Schmitz representing Bushnell Golf and Bryan Dickson of Sterling Cut Glass. We are proud to introduce Jake Sowby from Titleist and Jake Gordon, Zac Keener and Dathan Wong from Noteefy as our presenting sponsors. We are equally appreciative of the continued support from Matt Pollitt and Les Veres of PTE Golf, and Patrick Coughlin and Mitch Bourgault of GT Golf Supplies, serving as supporting sponsors.

The PNW PGA Pro-Assistant Championship is a testament to the camaraderie and skill displayed by golf professionals. This two-man team competition pairs a head golf professional with their assistant golf professional, engaging in a four-ball format that showcases their collective talent and strategic acumen on the course.

History of the Championship

In 1992, the Pacific Northwest Pro-Assistant Championship began with an exciting showdown between Progress Downs’ Jerry Minor and Ralph West and Royal Oaks’ Steve Bowen and Michael Wilkerson, stretching to an intense seven-hole sudden-death playoff at Tacoma Country and Golf Club. Despite both teams firing remarkable 14-under scores, the playoff remained deadlocked as birdie putts stubbornly refused to find the cup. Fast forward to 1995, where the dynamic duo of Scott Williams and Mike Barnett from Redwood Golf Center etched their names into history books, setting an enduring tournament record with a blistering 18-under 126 at McCormick Woods GC, securing victory by a commanding three-stroke margin.

Since its inception, this championship has become a beacon of camaraderie between Head Professionals and their Assistants, earning its place as one of the most cherished events in the Pacific Northwest Section PGA calendar. Notable moments continued to shape its legacy, such as in 2008 when Head PGA Professional Steve Prugh and his Assistant Corey Prugh etched their names in history as the first father-son duo to seize the coveted title, further cementing the tournament’s rich history and significance.

April 8, 2024 Cover No Comments

Augusta on their minds

The Masters means so much to so many people. For some, it’s simply the first major tournament of the year (unless you count The Players Championship), For others, it marks the start of the golf season. For the rest, it’s an event steeped in tradition that they love to watch. Regardless of which category you fall into, a trip to Augusta, Georgia and a badge to get you into the tournament is likely a bucket list item that seems unattainable.

A group of golf industry workers from the Pacific Northwest found a unique way to get access to Augusta National and see the tournament from just about every angle.

In 2022 and 2023, Anthony Shipman and Nyk Pike – both managers at clubs in the Puget Sound area – attended The Masters as part of the volunteer security force. Hired by Securitas, the pair and several of their colleagues made their way to Augusta and were given tasks to keep the grounds safe for patrons and players.

“It was a pretty incredible experience,” said Pike, “not only because we could be on the grounds for as long as we wanted to be, but because once we got there, Securitas took care of the rest. They put us up in a hotel and even had a driver that made sure we could get to the course for the start of our 3:30am shifts.”

Pike said that, even after flying to Atlanta, driving to Augusta, and making a generous donation in the merchandise pavilion, he felt like he broke even when he received his check from Securitas.

When asked what they had to do during their shifts, Shipman said it was a pretty relaxed gig. “We would start the day making sure the employees got in without any contraband, and then we’d move over to start screening patrons. We really just had to make sure no one was bringing in phones or trying to use a fraudulent tournament badge (ticket).”

After getting patrons through the gates, the pair were free to go to different areas of the facility and relieve their fellow security guards for breaks. That gave them plenty of time to get a behind-the-scenes tour of things like the media tunnels and clubhouse.

“We came up with a scavenger hunt with things to find on the grounds,” said Pike. “We looked for things like the lone palm tree on the grounds – it’s on hole four – or turtles in the pond on 16. I feel like the only thing I still need to check off my list is the Crow’s Nest (where Amateur players stay during the event).”

While this may sound like something the average fan may never get to do, Shipman said it’s not. He added that, starting in September, Securitas will begin taking applications for security at The Masters. The force is pretty big, too, simply because it’s a week-long commitment of long days that some folks simply don’t make it all the way through. You can keep an eye out for more information at www.securitas.com.

Both Shipman and Pike were guests on the new Combo Tees Podcast, where you can hear more details on their time at Augusta. Click here for the episode or download it wherever you listen to podcasts.

April 8, 2024 News No Comments

2023 PNW PGA Award Winners

Each year, the Pacific NW Section (PGA of America) recognizes the golf professionals throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana who are helping grow the game of golf by working with players of all abilities.

Special Award Winners

Roger Wallace, of Polson Bay Golf Course, is honored as the 2023 Golf Professional of the Year. This is Roger’s fourth time receiving this prestigious award.

Carrie De Gree, from Royal Oaks Country Club received two awards: Assistant Golf Professional of the Year and Professional Development Award for Education. 

Eugene Country Club’s Christopher Smith was named 2023 Teacher of the Year.

Chas Holmes, from Bear Creek Country Club, received the Bill Strausbaugh Award for Mentoring. Chas was recognized for his work to help mentees become better pros.

The 2023 Player Development Award went to Ryan Young. The Chambers Bay professional was honored with the same award in 2020 and 2016.

2023’s Youth Player Development Award was given to Sara Griffin, who was also awarded for her work with PGA Jr. League.

Perry Williams Awards (For Rules) 

Mike Miller, of Kent, WA was recognized for his unwavering dedication to the rules of golf. 

Merchandisers of the Year 

Running a golf shop means different things to different types of facilities. That’s why the section awards those high performing professionals from three different categories. 

Public Category 

Sean Arey, of Trysting Tree, is one of the few pros who own his golf shop. He’s excelled at highlighting college sports, thanks to his close proximity to Oregon State. 

Resort Category 

Kalispel Golf & Country Club’s Nick McCaslin snagged his third consecutive merchandiser award by always making his customers feel special in his shop. 

Private Category 

Trevor Fox, from the Golf Club at Black Rock, rose to the top for private club merchandisers. Creativity and commitment to service have contributed to his club’s success. 

Player of the Year

Liam Kendregen’s outstanding season was punctuated when the Sand Point CC professional finished tied for 3rd at the PNW PGA Professional Championships.

Senior Player of the Year

Semiahmoo’s Jeff Coston won the Senior Washington Open, and logged two more top three finishes in some of the section’s biggest events of 2023.

PGA Assistant Player of the Year

Shane Prante, of The Home Course, won the Pelzer Golf Oregon Open Invitational and finished second in the National Car Rental PNW PGA Assistant Championship. 

Patriot Award 

Bill Morach, of Eugene Country Club, earned the 2023 Patriot Award, emphasizing his dedicationto serving members and veterans of the US Armed Forces.

Deacon Palmer Award 

Ryan Cutter, born with leg deformities, was recognized for his resilience in the face of personal challenges. Ryan inspires through his PGA Hope program. 

 

Paynes Valley - Hole 18
April 6, 2024 Course Features, News No Comments

Big Cedar – Best of the Ozarks

Unless you’ve lived or visited the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, your introduction to the area was likely on Netflix, with the award winning series “Ozark.” While many of the overhead shots of the area are accurate, you miss out on all the charm and beauty that you see when you’re on the ground. That’s especially true of the Big Cedar resort.

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and world-class amenities, Big Cedar has emerged as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe. Boasting a collection of meticulously designed courses, each offering a unique blend of challenge and natural splendor, Big Cedar is a haven for both recreational players and seasoned pros alike.

The spotlight on Big Cedar got brighter in 2020 when Payne’s Valley, the first public access course designed by Tiger Woods, opened. Described as the 19th Wonder of the World, the course is a tribute to the late Payne Stewart, who hails from the area. The course integrates the rugged terrain of the Ozarks with strategic elements that test every golfer.

As players navigate through the course, they encounter captivating vistas, including dramatic rock formations and pristine water features. The signature “Big Rock at Payne’s Valley” serves as a memorable backdrop for the challenging par-3 19th hole, offering a thrilling climax to the round.

Even when you walk off the island green off the 19th hole at the end of the round, the treat continues. The drive back to the clubhouse winds through the sandstone caves and caverns of the Big Rock, taking roughly 10 minutes and giving you one last look at the course you’ve just played.

The other two courses on the property, Ozark National and Buffalo Ridge, are not to be underestimated.
Ozarks National Golf Course feels like a truly classic golf course, something you’d expect to find in the British Open rotation. Designed by the team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this masterful layout pays homage to the classic courses of Scotland and Ireland while showcasing the Ozark landscape.

From the moment golfers set foot on the first tee, they’re immersed in a golfing experience unlike any other. The wide fairways and strategic bunkering challenge players of all skill levels, while the undulating greens demand precision and finesse on every putt.

As players make their way through the course, they are treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside, with panoramic views of Table Rock Lake and the rolling hills. Whether navigating doglegs like the par four 5th hole or tackling the daunting par three 16th, every shot at Ozarks National is an adventure unto itself.

Buffalo Ridge, formerly the Branson Creek Golf Club, has undergone a remarkable transformation at the hands of designer Tom Fazio. Getting its name from the herd of bison roaming its perimeter, Buffalo Ridge may be the best test of golf on the property.

Golfers are treated to a sensory journey as they traverse the undulating fairways and meticulously manicured greens. Each hole presents a unique set of challenges, requiring strategic shot-making and precise course management. Challenging holes, like the par five 13th hole, can be played in a variety of ways and give players the opportunity to use every club in the bag. It’s truly an unforgettable golfing experience.

In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Buffalo Ridge is committed to environmental sustainability, employing innovative practices to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Ozarks. Through initiatives such as native grass restoration and water conservation efforts, the course remains a model of responsible stewardship for future generations to enjoy.

It’s hard to believe that Big Cedar has more golf to offer on top of the three championship courses, but it’s true. The resort sports a top notch practice facility – located at Ozark National – that gives players the opportunity to hone their games before and after their rounds of golf. For those looking to play more golf without heading out for a full 18 holes, Big Cedar has two options: The Top of the Rock Golf Course and Mountain Top Golf Course. The former is a Jack Nicklaus par three course and home to Arnie’s Barn, a 150-year-old barn relocated from Arnold Palmer’s home in Latrobe, Pennsylvania and full of memorabilia from his historic career. The latter course was designed by Gary Player and sits atop the rock formation at the high point of the property. The 13-hole short course plays up and down and has some of the most challenging greens on the property.

Most importantly, don’t forget to visit the snack shacks every chance you get for the opportunity to eat a complimentary bison dog, produced right on the resort property.

The Rest of the Resort – Not Just for Golfers

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and pristine forests of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, Big Cedar Resort stands as a beacon of tranquility and luxury. This idyllic retreat offers guests a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting them to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying world-class amenities and unparalleled hospitality.

At the heart of Big Cedar Resort lies its breathtaking natural surroundings. Guests are greeted by the serene waters of Table Rock Lake, whose crystal-clear depths offer endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Surrounded by lush forests teeming with wildlife, the resort provides an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore hiking trails, go horseback riding, or simply unwind in the beauty of nature.

For those seeking adventure, Big Cedar offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from zip-lining through the treetops to exploring the rugged terrain on an ATV tour. Guided nature walks and wildlife tours allow guests to discover the rich biodiversity of the Ozarks, while lake cruises offer a leisurely way to soak in the scenery and spot bald eagles soaring overhead.

Big Cedar Resort is home to an array of luxurious accommodations, ranging from cozy cabins nestled along the lakefront to spacious lodge suites with sweeping views of the mountains. Each room is meticulously appointed with modern amenities and rustic-chic décor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind.

The resort’s commitment to hospitality is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, from the attentive service provided by staff to the thoughtful touches that ensure a memorable stay. Whether indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, savoring gourmet cuisine at one of the onsite restaurants, or simply lounging by the pool with a refreshing cocktail, guests are treated to the highest standard of comfort and care.

Big Cedar Resort caters to guests of all ages, with a wealth of family-friendly activities and entertainment options to enjoy. The Kids’ Adventure Club offers supervised activities and games for children, allowing parents to relax and unwind knowing their little ones are having a blast under the watchful eye of trained staff.

Families can bond over a friendly game of mini-golf or challenge each other to a round of bowling at the onsite entertainment center. Evening bonfires and marshmallow roasts provide the perfect opportunity to gather around the fire and share stories under the stars, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Above all, Big Cedar Resort is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering guests a chance to escape the stresses of modern life and reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. Whether seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply unwinding in the comfort of a luxurious cabin, visitors to Big Cedar are sure to find peace, serenity, and a sense of renewal in this enchanting mountain retreat.

April 6, 2024 News No Comments

Honma Golf upgrades wedges, debuts new finishes

Honma Golf, the leader in exquisitely crafted performance golf equipment, announces the new enhanced T//World W5 Wedge, an elite club design that showcases the ultimate in wedge innovation and craftsmanship.

The W5’s reimagined face design and sole options create exceptional play plus Honma’s legendary artistry and craftsmanship.

Honma engineers designed the T//World W5 wedges with a slightly larger head size and advanced high-spin performance by incorporating design characteristics that allow golfers of varying abilities to benefit from greater spin. The increased club head size improves forgiveness with a widened sweet spot for better aim and impact.

Two elegant finishes are available in this wedge line with a system of bounce and grind variations to suit different shot characteristics and wedge-swing styles. The chrome finish model features Honma’s unique and proven-popular double milling pattern on the face which holds and controls the golf ball and “bites” even on short finesse shots for optimal spin performance. The sophisticated brushed copper finish contributes to improved feel, reduced glare, rust prevention, and a unique visual appeal. Prices start at $209 for chrome, and $229 for copper.

The brushed copper model features a protrusion-shaped RIB positioned between the score lines by precision milling. The Full Score Line design of these wedges’ face design allows skilled wedge players to open and close the face at will and achieve a broad array of scoring shots. With grooves spanning from the heel to the toe, it is easy for golfers to use the versatile face surface with forgiveness and confidence in a variety of shot situations.

Golfers experience even more spin and precision with Honma’s latest advancements in its three strategic sole options, the I, C, and S.

I Sole (Available in 48-, 50- and 52-degree lofts, each with 8 degrees of bounce; and 54-degree loft with 10 degrees of bounce): Features slight trailing-edge relief across the back for full sole performance with improved turf interaction on takeaway and impact.
C Sole (Available in 56-, 58- and 60-degree lofts, each with 12 degrees of bounce): Utilizes aggressive heel-to-toe trailing edge relief with a flat bounce design and an easy-to-open face for optimized shot-making versatility whether the face is open or closed.

S Sole (Available in 56-, 58- and 60-degree lofts, each with 8 degrees of bounce): With a wide sole for four-way relief, the S Sole delivers shot making with more forgiveness and reliable spin. This wide, full-sole design enables forgiveness and playability from a variety of sand and turf conditions.

The exclusively designed VIZARD IB Wedge Shaft comes standard in the T//W W-5 wedges for low launch angles and high spin and consistently faster dynamic face closure for consistent loft at impact. The low launch achieved by this design equals longer contact time between the ball and the face.

Learn more at HonmaGolf.com.

April 6, 2024 The Lesson Tee No Comments

Stop the Slice

 

Let’s face it, most players’ shot shape is a big fade, or if we are being honest a slice. If this is you, it’s because the club face is open at impact to the target.  

This can be maddening, and you can spend hours trying to remedy this problem. In an effort to do less harm to your game, do not try to fix this via YouTube. Instead try this drill on the range the next time you want to work on your slice. 

Make practice swings with your hands split apart on the grip.

To achieve this, assume a normal grip with your lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers). Next slide your trail hand down the grip 2-3 inches so there is noticeable separation in your hands. 

Separating your hands will make it easier to release the club through impact thus minimizing slice/fade movement. After a few practice swings, try hitting wedges in this fashion. Again, after a few shots you will begin to feel the club release.

 The next step is to move your hands back to a normal grip and start hitting them straight. 

Good luck and enjoy hitting more fairways.

Alan Reese, Golf Lab



1 2 3 … 9