DUMBARNIE LINKS: So New, So Old

Chicago’s Premier Multimedia Golf Source & Authority Fall 2020, Vol. 24 No. 3

DUMBARNIE LINKS: So New, So old

MONTEREY: THE ULTIMATE TRIP

SHOUT OUT TO SHORT COURSES

GOLFChicagoMagazine.com TITO’S PLAY IT TEE TIME SAFE

2019 NATIONAL GOLF COURSE OF THE YEAR The Heather

BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA BOYNE Golf

— Forbes.com —

100 GREATEST PUBLIC COURSES The Heather #92, Links/Quarry #80

— Golf Digest —

EDITOR’S CHOICE BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor

— Golf Digest —

TOP 100 RESORTS Buddies Trip BOYNE Golf Luxury Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor

— GOLF Magazine & GOLF.com — BOOK 2021 NOW

Northern Michigan’s Best BOYNEgolf.com/chicago 8888.64.0861 Media sponsor of Dave Fall 2020 Vol. 24 No. 3 Opening Shot and contents Tim Features Feeling Cooped Up? The Drive of a Lifetime Even with the ability to play golf, there’s been a confining feeling to this The Monterey Peninsula is more than golf. But what golf year ever since the COVID-19 virus reared its ugly head. Visit our 14 Departments there is, from Pebble Beach to nearby Pasatiempo It was tough to go somewhere when there was nowhere to go. GOLFChicago 5 Opening Shot That’s changed, and that’s great. Not only have local courses opened, Magazine Dumbarnie Links: So New, So Old so have resorts, and, with proper social distancing, you can have as 6 The Good Stuff Just around the bend from St. Andrews is a new links course 16 Todd Mrowice Prowls good a time now as you could last year. Fan Page that looks and plays as old as its better-known neighbors the Aisles Perhaps better, because our cover subject, Dumbarnie Links, wasn’t on facebook. open last year. Located on a 5,000-acre estate overlooking the Firth of The Short of It 10 Instruction Forth about 10 minutes outside of St. Andrews, Scotland, it looks like it’s 20 Why the par-3 and short course phenomenon has grown Katherine Marren been there forever. We and is here to stay 12 Sweet Home Chicago have an exclusive interview with architect Clive 13 Profiles Clark, who should be Neal Kotlarek Tours over the moon about the Royal Fox reviews. 22 Off the Shelf It opened at the end Inside The Masters of May. This year, that is, not 1703, but it’s one 23 GOLFChicago Map more course to add to the and Directory Scotland bucket list, and How to Get There the more of those, the 29 On The Corkscrews better. All we need now Stephen Hawk is the green light to trav-

30 Final Putt el outside the country. Good Riddance to 2020 Back in the States, our Neal Kotlarek covers another five-star destina- Cover: Dumbarnie Links 6th Hole. Above: Dumbarnie Links 8th and 9th Holes tion, the Monterey Peninsula. From Pebble Beach to Pasatiempo, the golf there is sublime. Neal also dug into the recent trend to build short courses, wheth- SUBSCRIBE TO Chicago’s Premier Multimedia Golf Source & Authority er fewer than 18 holes or a par-3 layout, as exemplified by the recent GOLFCHICAGO Founder: Bill Daniels Editorial Inquiries opening of a short course at Forest Dunes in Michigan, and Kohler’s Publisher: Dave Weretka Tim Cronin [email protected] announcement of a similar venture at Blackwolf Run in Wisconsin. Free Golf* with Your Editor: Tim Cronin PO Box 541 We also look forward to the final men’s major of the season, the Paid Subscription Art Director: Stephen Hawk Worth, IL 60482 Masters, the calendar having turned the traditional opener into the sea- Senior Writers: Neal Kotlarek and Advertising and Marketing Inquiries Chicago’s Premier Todd Mrowice Dave Weretka son closer. There won’t be any fans hanging out at Amen Corner, but a Multimedia Golf Source [email protected] review of Mark Cannizzaro’s new book on the toonimint will help take & Authority Delivered Instructional Staff: Andy Mickelson, PO Box 9745 Andrew Ogata, and John Platt Naperville, IL 60564 you there. To Your Door 815-741-8005 Editorial Contributors: Stephen Hawk, Additionally, there’s another super-sized helping of The Good Stuff, Visit Rory Hughes, Dave Lockhart, Greg Martin, instruction from Katherine Marren of Carmel, Calif., and more. www.GOLFChicagoMagazine.com and John Morrissett Thanks to the pandemic, we only presented you three issues this for details Photography: GOLFChicago Staff

Seemore Putter, Sink More Putts SeeMore’s unmistakable design is incorporated into its latest Bamboo Pants Are Here model, the Platinum M7 Tour. A heel and toe weighted putter, Bamboo isn’t just for panda this classic looking putter has enhanced forgiveness and multiple bears, it’s for making super milling patterns for buttery contact. Made of 303 stainless steel, comfy pants. The Bamboo the M7 Tour has the brand’s Rifle Scope Technology which is Stretch five-pocket pant from that little red dot that gets you aligned. Linksoul is everything you never $350 www.seemore.com knew you needed in your wardrobe. These pants are perfect for the course, work, and anywhere in-between. 69 percent cotton, 29 percent Swagger in a Sleeve Adidas Stripes Without Spikes bamboo, 2 percent spandex, “It’s not a dozen balls, it’s a box of The new Codechaos line from Adidas brings machine washable, and a swagger.” What else can TaylorMade a light and energized experience to your modern fit. Available in five say about a golf ball that was designed golf shoe game. These spikeless kicks colors. in tandem with Rickie Fowler? High-level have a waterproof textile upper, INSITE $130 www.linksoul.com performance meets a truly unique design. sockliner, and Fitfoam cushioning. A Strategically placed graphics frame the spikeless shoe doesn’t need to sacrifice TaylorMade logo to form ClearPath traction, and Chaos Traxion with Twist Alignment for immediate feedback. Grip gives you superior stability no matter $44.99 www.taylormadegolf.com what the playing conditions may be. $150 www.adidas.com

Cleveland Rocks Wedges Death, taxes, and Cleveland wedges. Isn’t that how it goes? The Kube for Your Bag The new RTX ZipCore wedges Where is your golf travel are a sleek design with intense bag? Probably somewhere performance. A lightweight core inconvenient due to its paired with a newly positioned inconvenient size and center of gravity makes finding awkwardness. Weighing only the sweet spot easier, which means 6.8 pounds, the Sun Mountain controlled distance and better spin thanks Kube is made from ballistic-style to new UltiZip Grooves. Available in nine fabric in combination with plastic lofts and three sole grinds. half-shells. The Kube folds down to only $149.99 www.clevelandgolf.com 9” x 13” x 14.5” for convenient storage. Available in eight colors to make it as bright and noticeable as possible. $229.99 www.sunmountain.com

6 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 7 THE GOOD STUFF Compiled by Todd Mrowice Hat’s on to Arnie PUMA’s tribute to Arnold Palmer’s life and style is showcased in the PUMA x Arnold Palmer A Near-Weightless Golf Bag Collection. The AP Rope With our golf weather fleeting, does it get Snapback has the AP any better than taking advantage of a umbrella patch which beautiful fall day and walking nine or highlights this cap, and 18 holes? The Ping Hoofer Craz-E Lite has a moisture-wicking bag makes carrying your sticks so sweatband and Flexfit 110 much easier by weighing only three Technology. Available in pounds, but without sacrificing four classy colors. quality. High tensile strength $35 www.cobragolf.com fabric is beyond durable and the four-way top easily holds your club cargo. $249.00 ping.com Too A Glove Unlike Any Other TRUE to The thing about wearing a premium golf Believe glove is that once you’ve experienced it, Has it really been 11 years since our last review it’s hard to go back to value. Wearing an of TRUE shoes? They are really frontrunners Asher glove is like wearing a Bentley on your when it comes to comfort and quality for a shoe hand. Do you really want to go back to that to “Enjoy the walk,” as TRUE urges. The OG ’92 Sable? Made from a single piece of Premium is constructed with a natural platform to AAA Cabretta-Leather and precision cut to increase balance and feel. High-quality leather perfection. There’s just no substitute. and coordinating sock liner allow flexible comfort $24 www.ashergolf.com on and off the course, and they come with a two- year waterproof guarantee. A Wristful of Yardage $179 truelinkswear.com A high quality GPS watch doesn’t need to cost you, well, the arm you wear it upon. The new V3 from Shot Scope is a lightweight and comfortable watch with a full-color display. Preloaded with 35,000 courses, the device gives front, middle, back, and hazard distances. It comes with 16 Smart GPS tracking tabs to record all of your shots and can also act as your everyday watch. $219.99 shotscope.com

Rah-rah Grips Golf Pride wants you to share your allegiance with every shot. The new MCC Teams grips are designed with the color schemes of just about every major Now Hear This pro and college Why spend the money on a GPS team so you can and a Bluetooth speaker when rep your squad. you can have both in one unit? Brushed cotton cord The new Wingman speaker from on the upper hand, Bushnell features crystal-clear premium rubber for high quality audio, and the the lower hand. The battery life is 10 hours. The best of both worlds. speaker also includes a built- Available in standard in USB port for charging other and midsize. devices. With 36,000 courses, $10.49 per grip one push of a button and you’ll have www.golfpride.com front, back, and center distances. $149.99 bushnellgolf.com

8 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 9 INSTRUCTION Considering the Chip Shot Katherine Marren LIVING & PLAYING IN CHICAGO

here is nothing like a perfectly struck The Set-Up If this mistake has been derailing The Plane Tchip shot. You have to make solid The set-up is the most important part of your chips, try focusing on keeping the Even in chipping the swing plane is JUST GOT BETTER contact, start the ball on the correct line your chip shot and it is the most distinct grip ahead of the ball through to the important. I see most golfers struggling and control the distance of the ball. When set-up in golf. You should always be finish. If you are successful you will see with chipping when their path or plane all three of those skills come together it able to tell from observing a player’s the shaft in line with your lead forearm is too up or vertical or way too low and can feel immensely satisfying. set-up if they are trying to chip. The and your lead wrist flat (stick drill picture). inside. I tell my students that I rank the chip feet are very close together with the You can even try to bow the lead wrist Remember chipping is like your full swing. shot as the most important shot in the lead foot slightly open. The golf ball is down as you swing through the ball to There is a tiny arc so as you swing back bag because the correct fundamentals off the inside of the back foot and the keep that lead wrist flat through impact. the club head goes slightly up and in. of this small swing teaches them a Tour golfer’s hands are ahead of the ball, When golfers struggle with chunked, player-like impact they can use to help causing a very distinct look of the club The Swing topped or skulled shots it is often their improve their full swings. Plus, we all shaft leaning forward. The swing motion in chipping is often swing path or plane. INTRODUCING know how critical good chipping is to Here is the most critical part of the described as an arm swing or a put- visiting lowering our golf scores, yet chipping set-up: Lean your head or upper body ting-like swing. That’s a good descriptor Practice tends to be an elusive shot for many slightly forward to get your weight on to start and keeps the length of the The best chipping practice I can chicago? ONLINE golfers to master. your front foot, the foot closest to the swing manageable, but there are some assign my students is to try to take their I’m going to share with you my favorite target. This is the secret for getting the key differences to note. most lofted wedge and to learn to hit the Access exclusive FREE money-saving offers for top notch dining, chipping tips, but first it’s important to bottom of the swing in front of the ball First, because you are using a regular ball as low as you can. At your practice upscale salons and spas, home services and more by visiting describe a chip shot. A chip shot is a low and avoiding chunks and thin shots. full swing grip in chipping, it is possible green, find a 20-yard chip shot, take shot played close to the ground, and by that your wrists will break ever so slightly your sand wedge and hit low trajectory www.insidechicago.online definition has less air time than ground The Key to Solid Contact on the backswing. That’s okay; it helps shots. Land the ball halfway to the hole time. Think bump and run. There are The most important skill in chipping is you create some power and the ability to about 10 yards and make it run the other also two distinct chipping techniques keeping the grip ahead of the clubhead hit down on the ball. With that said your 10 yards. Chipping the ball with a low :one that mimics putting (and uses a through the ball. Almost all misses in backswing is only about knee high. I like trajectory helps you keep the grip in putting grip) and one that is more like a chipping occur because the clubhead to think of the chipping swing as being front of the ball and helps eliminate the mini-golf swing. I am going to describe passes the grip before ball contact. about the same length back and through, miss of scooping the ball which sends the mini-golf swing version that uses a Another way of describing that for and the finish has some specific looks that the ball sailing across the green. regular full-swing grip because it is a right-handed golfers is that the right you can easily train into your motion. One, As you hit chip shots, monitor your technique you can use to get the ball hand passes the left hand before ball the club head finishes low, and two, the trajectory. When you see a higher shot over small obstacles like rough or green contact which makes the club head shaft of the club is in line with your lead with less roll out, you may have indeed Where one great course leads to another fronts when used with your most lofted swing up into the ball – the dreaded arm. This makes your lead wrist appear broken down your wrists, so challenge wedges and irons. skulled shot. flat and your lead arm long or straight. yourself on the next shot to hit the ball lower and build better awareness of the Good Set Up Bad Set Up Good Inside Path Bad Outside Path Finish left wrist staying flat and the right wrist bent back slightly through impact on the next shot. It’s close to home... And, with 13 incredible courses at Katherine Marren one unforgettable destination, it’s a golfing experience is the director of you’ll treasure. You’ll spend less time traveling and more instruction at Quail Lodge & Golf Club time doing what you love to do... Playing tons of golf. in Carmel, Calif. Come PLAY and STAY with us. Book your Golf Trail (www.quaillodge. Getaway today. Visit GolfAtLakeOfTheOzarks.com. com), and was the 2008 Northern California PGA Teacher of the Year. She can be reached at (831) 620-8859. 10 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 11 Travis Johns and River Forest’s Chris Gumbach a decade ago, this year’s one-day bash, profiles combined with one downstate conducted by the Central The Renaissance of Royal Fox Illinois Chapter of the Illinois Neal Kotlarek Sweet PGA, raised over $350,000 despite a late start because of downpours. the 40-player haul via Rachel Oberheide grins after hree years of painstaking renovation “The sand bunkers add strategy while a formidable tee shot over a large pond to making a birdie during the Birdies 1,042 birdies brings the total to work, redesign, and a multi-million-dollar at the same time increasing the course’s a large tiered green also protected by an Home for Charity marathon. (Tim Cronin) T about $2.31 million in the 10 investment has helped put the “royal” back beauty,” said PGA head professional Alex L-shaped bunker on the back side. The 550- years it’s been held, thanks to pledges by members of the clubs in Royal Fox Country Club in St. Charles. The Mendez, who joined Royal Fox after a long yd. eighteenth is an intriguing par-5 that the pros work at. Proceeds go to the Illinois PGA Foundation, private club is nearing completion of a regal stint at Butterfield Country Club. provides a thrilling approach shot whether Laurie Children’s Hospital, JDRF of Illinois and Ronald McDonald renaissance performed with the singular The Royal Fox golf course was built in going for the green in two with a wood or Chicago House Charities of Chicagoland. goal of upgrading every aspect of the facility 1989 by the late legend Dick Nugent, whose using a short-iron on the third shot. The vast including the golf course, the clubhouse, the credentials include Michigan’s five-star The putting surface is protected by water, a large The Silent BMW restaurants and multiple amenities spread Dunes Club and both Harborside International embankment and three snaking bunkers. Usually, a 66-foot, 3-inch birdie putt across a green and down across the grounds. The vision by manage- courses on Chicago’s south side. At Royal No visit to Royal Fox is complete without Emory Takes Charge at Illinois Open a slope that falls into the cup to win a tournament is accompa- ment and ownership was to make Royal Fox Fox, Nugent utilized the property’s naturally a stop inside the renovated clubhouse. The Bryce Emory is one of those guys who keep teeing it up, looking nied by a roar you can hear from the other side of the course. the premier country club and residential rolling terrain to construct a challenging layout facility’s multiple dining areas offer both for the breakthrough. Jon Rahm received a couple of cheers and prolonged but polite community in the western suburbs. replete with sprawling bunkers that can make casual and fine dining options. Adjacent to the 29-year-old Auroran may have found it at nearby White applause when the putt described dropped into the cup at “Time is a precious commodity,” explained approach shots a test of nerves. One of the the clubhouse’s oversized patio is an enclosed Eagle Golf Club in winning the Illinois Open. He won by four Olympia Fields during sudden-death in the BMW Championship. club general manager and PGA professional noticeable improvements made to the course elegant outdoor swimming pool which strokes after seeing his 36-hole lead evaporate during the round, Ranked No. 2 in the world, he was the winner after top- Brian Tulk. “When our members enter the is the use of fine white sand that glistens in the recently underwent a $300,000 renovation. collecting $19,928 and a huge dose of confidence before a gal- ranked Dustin Johnson, whose 44-footer from a similar angle club, they deserve a first-class experience, sun. Over $500,000 was spent to upgrade the “After it reopened,” said Tulk, “the patio has lery of several hundred. on the 72nd hole had forced extra holes, missed a 30-footer whether that experience involves playing property’s maintenance equipment. become the club’s premier outdoor social “In all honesty, I kind of thought this could be the last year (of that came up about a foot short. Thus ended four rounds in the golf course, relaxing with their family Royal Fox’s two nines contrast and gathering spot for our members. We can also chasing the dream),” Emory said. “Then throw on the coronavirus which Olympia’s North Course was the real winner. Only five at the swimming pool, or enjoying a great complement one another. The tree-lined expand that area with canopies to allow for stuff and I had time to think about it. You realize there are bigger players finished under par, and the scoring average was over meal in the evening.” and bunker-filled front nine gives way to a larger occasions,” he added. Amenities at the things than golf. But I’m playing well this summer so I’ll probably the strict par of 70 all four days, even Sunday, when the wind The club’s centerpiece is a scenic, rolling water hazard-laced back nine. Along with patio include a fire pit, heaters, and regularly play a little bit longer.” was a whisper. 6,816-yard championship course that over two spectacular par 3s, the front nine is scheduled live music. emory’s total of 8-under 208 beat second-year pro Jack Could this mean the course proved tough enough for anoth- the years has hosted seven Illinois Opens highlighted by the challenging 416-yard The club maintains an active social cal- Korzon of Downers Grove, whose closing 69 jumped him into er U.S. Open? Perhaps, but there’s much more – including bad and multiple CDGA qualifying events. While (white tees) ninth. Following a straightaway endar for couples, families, and avid golfers. solo second. Charlie Netzel of Western Springs and Tim “Tee-K” USGA memories of Cook County politics – involved. More likely, most of the original design remains intact, tee shot to avoid trees along the left side of The Royal Fox Junior Coaching Programs Kelly of Wheaton tied for third at 3-under 213. Olympia will get a future BMW, one filled with spectators. subtle enhancements were made to improve the landing area, the hole veers diagonally are geared to juniors 6 to 13 and promote aesthetics and course playability. Phase 1 to a large green made much tighter by team-building athletic skills; programs are open Sort of a Three-peat for Sluzas Stix Breaks Club Design, Sales Mold of the project involved back nine cart path large bunkers protecting its left and right to children of members and non-members. The high school season was altered like everything else this They look like branded clubs. They play like branded clubs. But pavement and grass replacement around sides. When the flagstick is placed near the Regularly scheduled events include holiday season, with the IHSA eliminating the championship playoffs when you check out the price tag on a 12-piece set of clubs the greens where multiple varieties had front of the green, the long approach shot celebrations, summer soirees, “nine and dine” for boys and girls. A shortened regular season will be capped offered by Stix Golf, you immediately understand the difference. taken root. Phase 2 incorporated bunker has to be carefully placed to avoid these evening events geared toward couples, and by a regional playoff. That eliminated the chance of Lockport Leave it to a team of entrepreneurs from Chicago’s western renovation, the addition of grass bunkers strategic bunkers. golf clinics. Township’s Ben Sluzas to win a third straight IHSA state 3A title, suburbs to shake up the golf industry with a motto of “premium and waste bunkers, and the completion of The layout’s final two holes are extremely “Royal Fox Country Club is unique in matching Mason Jacobs, who did so in 1A for Massac County quality and minimalist design at a fair price.” new cart paths on the front nine. memorable. The par-3 seventeenth calls for the Chicago metro area,” said Tulk. “The club High from 2005-07. Stix Golf uses a direct-to-consumer model to offer equip- But Sluzas more than made up for that by capturing the ment at $799 for the entire set, consisting of a driver, two continued on page 28 IJGA’s 51st Illinois Junior by going around Makray Memorial in woods, a hybrid, five irons, two wedges and a putter. The clubs even-par 213 in mid-August. Playing in the penultimate group, are made with high-elastic graphite shafts, are all-black and he beat Dominic Scaletta of Inverness (and Barrington, where have a sleek, elegant look. Makray is located) by two strokes with an eagle on the par-5 “We saw an opportunity to save our customers a lot of 18th in the final round, while Scaletta, in the final threesome, dou- money even with a high performance product line,” said ble-bogeyed to fall out of the lead and hand the title to Sluzas. Stix Golf co-founder and CEO Gabriel Coyne. “We’ve truth be told, summer golf, from the IJGA’s wide-ranging had a great response to the product line from all series of tournaments to national play, has long surpassed the levels of players,” he added. “We think one of the high school-connected season for those seeking college scholar- reasons some people don’t play the game is due to ships. But Sluzas, headed for Northern Illinois, now has the best the high cost of equipment. So maybe Stix Golf can of both worlds, titles in each over three seasons.. play a role in bringing more people into the game.” the price includes free shipping and a 100 Birdies Fly for Charity percent satisfaction guarantee. For now, the clubs It’s the biggest little fund-raiser around, the annual Birdies for are only available in right-handed models. Visit Charity bash at River Forest Country Club. Brainchild of Medinah’s www.stix.golf for order information. 12 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 13 ne-hundred-and-one years ago, Pebble Beach Golf The Drive of shot selection on the approach shot, as a ball on the wrong side of Links opened to the public after two outstanding ama- this green could leave a putt almost a half of a football field long. teur golfers, Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, designed Following the fifth hole, the course weaves into the mature one of the wonders of the golf world. Unlike many oth- a Lifetime pine trees of the lush Del Monte Forest. While the fairways are Oer links courses that abut great bodies of water, their layout hov- generously wide over this stretch of holes, Jones placed strategic ered above a rugged coastline. To maximize the number of holes fairway bunkers on every par 4 and par 5. These hazards reduce on the ocean, the links were routed in a figure 8. Ten years after Why the Monterey landing areas significantly to thus bring the trees lining the fair- it opened, Pebble Beach hosted the U.S. Amateur. Since then, the Peninsula is worth ways into play. now legendary course has hosted six U.S. Opens (with a seventh The highlight of the back nine is the intimidating No. 14. A slated for 2027), a PGA Championship, the perennial AT&T Pebble the trip double dogleg, this par 5 bends severely right over the final 150 Beach Pro-Am – the old Crosby Clambake – and, in 2023, is sched- yards. The green is tucked behind a pond and a deep snaking bun- uled to host the U.S. Women’s Open. While the competition seems By Neal Kotlarek and Dave Weretka ker on its right side. to get stiffer each year, Pebble Beach has been ranked as the No. 1 Greatest Public Golf Course in America by Golf Digest since that Arguably, there are only two iconic path- The Links at Spanish Bay category was introduced in 2003. ways leading to a pair of America’s great- While Pebble Beach Golf Links remains the 17-Mile Drive’s est golf courses. The first is Magnolia premier attraction, the peninsula is also home to three other Lane, the stunning 330-yard entryway into great championship courses, all of them accessible to the pub- Augusta National Golf Club that is protect- lic, along with one of the world’s greatest private courses, the ed by 61 towering magnolia trees, most of ultra-exclusive Cypress Point Club. Indeed, any itinerary to the which date back to the 1850s. Most of us, Monterey Peninsula should incorporate two or more other courses of course, will never have a chance to per- to create lasting memories. Following are summaries of the best form a test drive, as the driveway is only beyond Pebble’s lure. used by the members and guests of one of the country’s most exclusive clubs. Spyglass Hill The other iconic pathway is joyous- Lodge serves up great scenic views of the verdant hills surrounding ly accessible to the public and may argu- most holes. Impeccable conditioning makes the course a joy to play. ably be the country’s most scenic roadway. The most interesting hole on the front nine is No. 6, a short It is 17-Mile Drive, which hugs the Pacific par 4 with a candy cane-shaped green fronted by a creek. Make Ocean coastline and takes drivers through birdie here and you’ll feel as if Christmas arrived early. The 17th parts of California’s Del Monte Forest, Just as cliffs are the theme of Pebble Beach and the Del Monte hole is a terrific par 3 featuring a large green protected by waste- past barking sea lions near Bird Rock, Forest dominates Spyglass Hill, sand dunes are the predomi- land on the left and three massive bunkers on the right. The entire and even past a lone cypress tree that has nant characteristic of Spanish Bay. Designed by Robert Trent hole is framed by trees and hills in the distance. stood guard over the ocean for 250 years. Jones Jr. with input from Tom Watson and former USGA presi- The painter Frances McComas called Point dent Sandy Tatum, the course has a distinctly Scottish feel as Pasatiempo, Santa Cruz Lomas, along the two-lane road, “the its fairways consist of fescue grass. This feature adds a strate- greatest meeting of land and sea in the gic element to the course with many approach shots calling for world,” a quote almost always attributed a pitch-and-run to the green. to the author Robert Louis Stevenson. All Site of an abandoned sand quarry, Spanish Bay zigzags along avid golfers can echo the sentiment, as the the ocean for all but four holes. While some of the fairways are Monterey Peninsula is not only a spectac- extremely wide, hazards abound across the course. These include Located just a mile away from Pebble Beach Golf Links, the course ular drive, it’s also home to Pebble Beach, pot bunkers, marshlands, waste areas, and deep fescue grass. PGA was designed in the 1960s by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and has a vast- Spyglass Hill, and a host of other stunning Champions Tour star Scott McCarron won the 2016 TaylorMade ly different feel from its sister course. Long considered the toughest championship courses. Pebble Beach Invitational and praised the course afterwards. golf course in northern California, Spyglass Hill begins with a dog- “Spyglass Hill and Pebble Beach are my two favorite courses,” he leg left par 5 that opens to sweeping views of Monterey Bay and the said. “And Spanish Bay probably has the best views of any golf Santa Cruz Mountains. The ensuing four holes include ocean views course I’ve ever seen.” as they wind through, alongside, atop, and over sand dunes. The tee Each evening at Spanish Bay, a lone bagpiper plays a box of the 172-yard third hole includes views of the aforementioned mournful tune and paces across the course to signal the sunset. Cypress Point Club along with a backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Few traditions in golf are more inspiring. While perhaps not as famous as No. 7 on Pebble Beach, this par 3 Even though this course is situated an hour’s drive away from Pebble includes many more obstacles than its counterpart, including waste Quail Lodge Golf Club Beach and is not on the Monterey Peninsula, this fabulous and historic areas teeming with native grasses. A saving grace is that the green Located seven miles inland from Pebble Beach, Quail Lodge Golf course deserves your consideration when scheduling a golf trip to is large and forgiving. Club is a gently rolling parkland-style course designed by Robert this area. Indeed, if your flight from Chicago takes you into San Jose, Robert Trent Jones referenced No. 4 as his favorite par 4 of Muir Graves and restored in 2015 by Todd Echenrode. The layout I recommend you make this your very first stop. Everything about his long and celebrated career. Nicknamed “Blind Pew,” the hole plays to a modest (by today’s standards) 6,464 yards,but is plen- this semi-private course (with limited tee times available to the ends with a fascinating 55-yard long putting surface that is only ty challenging due to the presence of 10 lakes, scores of bunkers, public) makes it a must-play. For starters, the layout was the vision of 10-yards wide and is sunk between sand dunes. Be careful with and the Carmel River. Nestled in the secluded Carmel Valley, Quail continued on page 28

14 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 15 Dumbarnie Links Scottish Course Makes Inaugural Impact By Tim Cronin

Dumbarnie Links 4th Hole

he golf architect has a difficult job. He The property, suggested to him by friend Malcolm has been created with the Dumbarnie Links 6th Hole must satisfy several constituencies: the Campbell, who lived a mile away and happened to walk to it dune landscape being so sig- owner from the start, the regulatory one day, would be the site of Clark’s first venture into design- nificantly enhanced, but also bodies during construction, the mem- ing a links course. by the focus on the wildlife, bers or customers as they play it, and Dumbarnie Links, he would call it, and, open only since plants and birds. finally, himself. May 27, it has received considerable acclaim as a course the “It has been a joy to see He has to take what nature gives golf tourist besotted with playing The Old Course must add the project unfold.” him and improve upon it, accentuat- to his list to go with nearby Kingsbarns as well as the other St. Balniel is the rare Scot ing the features present and adding those necessary to make a Andrews links. who does not play golf, but he Tjourney from first tee to 18th green feel challenging, entertain- Clark, working with a split-level property that gently recognizes excellence when ing, and, for casual play, relaxing, all at the same time. tumbles from the clubhouse 90 feet above sea level to with- he sees it. Putting his faith And he has to meet the budget. in a flip wedge of a mile-long beach, has taken slanted ground in Clark, who assembled a Ideally, the property is in an accessible location – though where cows had grazed for hundreds of years and turned it group of investors to finance Chicago-based developer Mike Keiser, master of the far-away into a lively rumpled carpet of golf. Holes sit between dunes the project, was a wise move. getaway, will tell you otherwise. If there’s something of a view, both natural and conjured up by his mind while living at the Clark, 75 and anything so much the better. site for the best part of four months. but retired, was a success- Architect Clive Clark, born in The result is that most welcome of golf creations, a new ful amateur and profession- England, more recently anchored in links to go with the some 246 worldwide that Campbell and al player who had studied art La Quinta, Calif., but always with an fellow author George Peper identified in their 2010 book, and architecture – building eye to the roots of the game, found “True Links.” architecture, that is – in col- an accessible property with a view of The property itself is unusual, in that it was created on lege for a time before deciding the Firth of Forth in Scotland, scant 345 acres of the 5,000-acre Balcarres Estate, lovingly tended he wanted a club in his hand miles from St. Andrews. by one family since the 1500s, about when golf itself began. rather than a triangular ruler. “I had always wanted to do a “There was an air of uncertainty when my family was “I realized it was it links course, and you very seldom find first approached about building a golf course on our land,” wasn’t quite the same as Clive Clark a genuine links site,” said Clark, his said Lord Anthony Balniel, leader of the family. “Fast forward playing golf, which I loved,” voice and accent from working several several years and we simply could not be more pleased. What Clark recalled. “It was a sev- Masters telecasts in the 1980s still familiar. He sat behind the Clive Clark and his team have done is nothing short of out- en-year course.” 16th hole after Henry Longhurst and before Jim Nantz. standing. I have been struck not only by the beauty of what He escaped into the

16 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 17 world of amateur golf and won four “It’s a constructed golf course but important tournaments that summer, it looks very natural,” Clark said in a landing on the 1965 Walker Cup team, recent telephone conversation. “If you where he went 2-0-2 at Baltimore Five went there today and looked out across Farms, and was a threat from then on. it, you’d probably think it had been Fast-forward a couple of decades, there for 100 years. The holes are very and Clark, by now the head profession- secluded. On the high part of the site, al at Sunningdale while moonlighting there are some holes you can look over on BBC’s golf telecasts, slid into golf ar- the whole golf course.” chitecture by working with Peter Alliss, The black tees – the back tees a broadcasting colleague. Clark coaxed on the scorecard – play to about 6,900 Alliss back into the business, and their yards, not long in this era, but sure- partnership lasted through 22 course de- ly long enough for 99.5 percent of signs. Then the market in the U.K. dried Dumbarnie’s clientele. That’s especially up and Clark moved here to ply his trade. true when one remembers the wind has His great asset in entering the a tendency to blow in Scotland. business? But, Clark revealed, and a close “Because I’d studied architec- look at the course map confirmed, there ture and been to art school, I can draw,” are 13 holes with unlisted tees. Those, if Clark said. “If you’re designing any- used in a championship, would stretch thing, whether a fashion designer or golf the layout to some 7,600 yards, likely architect, it’s very helpful. I’d learned to long enough for even the biggest hitters do grading plans when studying archi- to take a deep breath. tecture. It’s very similar to being a golf Clark calls himself “a chameleon” course architect.“ when it comes to course design, preferring The former Walker and Ryder to enhance the features of the land rath- Cupper could also use his imagination. er than impose a single style upon it. That Beyond the beauty – five holes play to- brings in imagination even more. A Clive Dumbarnie Links 10th Hole Dumbarnie Links 16th Hole ward the Firth, across which on the rare Clark course isn’t cookie-cutter golf. exceptionally clear day it is said one can “It’s a thinking man’s golf course, see Edinburgh – Dumbarnie Links is and I think that’s also been a factor in Dumbarnie Links 3rd Hole filled with imaginative shots. the popularity,” Clark said. “And it’s a There are three short par-4 holes thinking man’s course where you see which dare the bold player to attempt everything.” driving the green, a particular favorite Clark is too modest to say this is of Clark’s, as it gives everyone a chance his best design, but allowed, “It will be at a birdie. He compares it to “shopping the best-known one, since it’s a links.” at Harrod’s when there’s a 60-percent Because of coronavirus-induced sale. You’re getting something for noth- travel restrictions, almost nobody outing. It’s a bargain.” The drivable third, side of Scottish and United Kingdom a shade over 300 yards, has already re- residents have seen Dumbarnie Links. corded that rarest of golf birds, the al- That makes the acclaim from those who batross ace on a par 4. On the 17th, one have all the more legitimate, for links must contend with a 300-year-old stone golf is in the blood of the Scottish golfer. wall that you can drive over if you dare, “I’m absolutely thrilled,” Clark at the risk of finding one of the sev- said. “We’ve had a lot of days with full en “gnarly pot bunkers,” to use Clark’s tee sheets.” term. There’s a safer route, but what fun One can only imagine the trum- is that? pets will sound tenfold when the rest of There are two holes, one a par 5, us get to visit the land that started it all. that emulate the double-fairway hole of Charles Blair Macdonald’s long-gone Dumbarnie at a Glance Lido, where the narrower fairway, hard- Dumbarnie Links er to hit, offers a several-club lesser ap- Upper Largo, Fife, Scotland proach to the green in comparison to the U.S. phone: 1 (833) 691-0403 safer but longer route. Several holes are www.dumbarnielinks.com bisected by small streams, while dunes Green fee: U.S. $371 (as of September are everywhere, guiding the golfer about. 11, 2020); resident rate lower

18 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 19 lmost 30 years ago, golf architect Rick toward a green positioned 145 feet down, in a As befits his personality, Thompson is planned to open in summer 2021 and rests Smith had a cool idea. Even as a sec- glen surrounded by the towering mature trees vastly understated the quality and enjoyment in the middle of the Blackwolf Run complex. ond championship course was about that inspired the Treetops Resort name. In a of the 10-hole 1,135-yard course designed by The name is an homage to Kohler Company’s to open at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, calm wind, assume three clubs less than you’d Keith Rhebb and Riley Johns. Presumably in- design history and is the work of Chris Lutzke. Mich., where Smith also served as normally use from this distance. spired by the dramatic green contours of the Holes will stretch from 60 to 160 yards. Top of the Rock Hole #4 head instructor, he thought it would The 135-yard No. 7 is called “High resort’s Tom Doak-designed The Loop course, “The par-3 and putting courses will be neat if guests at the resort had Five” due to the reaction fans and the ESPN the putting surfaces on most of the holes fea- provide a dynamic experience for our inter- something else to do after making it Shoot-out participants had after Trevino’s ture strategic slopes and banks which can be national guests and local community,” said throughA an arduous round of championship momentous ace. The severe 90-foot drop can, used to nudge tee shots toward the flagstick. Kohler Co. executive chairman Herb Kohler. golf. Inspired, perhaps, by the Par 3 Course according to the course guide, “lead to a club Forest Dunes is a world-class golf “It is important for these courses to aid in our built in 1958 at famed Augusta National, Smith selection swing of up to four to five clubs.” The Short Course – Forest Dunes resort nestled on an isolated property just out- continuing efforts to grow the game by creat- wanted to build nine holes that took maximum While you probably won’t pocket $1 million side the tiny community of Roscommon. The ing opportunities for players of all skill levels. advantage of the property’s hills and dales. from your friends on this hole, a shot close to original Forest Dunes course was designed by The Baths will do it with the Kohler touch to The end-result was a dramatic layout brilliant- the pin is, as the credit card commercials used former British Open champion Tom Weiskopf create a unique experience.” ly named “Threetops” that received national to say, priceless. and is perennially ranked nationally among Blackwolf Run is a Destination exposure in 2001 when Lee Trevino rang up a Treetops Resort is home to 81 holes the top five courses in Michigan. The Loop is a Kohler resort property that features the hole-in-one on No. 7 to earn a cool $1,090,000 in of championship golf designed by the afore- reversible championship course that plays one River Course and the Meadow Valley Course. the ESPN Par-3 Shootout. The course features mentioned Smith, Robert Trent Jones Sr., and way on odd days and the other way on even Nearby, overlooking Lake Michigan, is intriguing short holes with tees that dramatical- Tom Fazio. Another resort golf amenity avail- days. Three times during the summer, when Whistling Straits, with the Straits Course and ly tower above large greens – some designed to able at the four-season resort is a dramatic months stretch to 31 days, the course hosts the Irish Course. All were designed by legend- funnel a tee shot toward the flagstick. 17,000 square-foot putting course appropriate- The Duel which allows teams of two to play the ary architect Pete Dye. Flash forward 28 years after the ly known as “The Himalayas..” course in both directions over a single day. opening of Threetops. The golf world – not The Short Asked in an interview if the addition Tiger Woods Par 3, to mention the rest of the world – is a differ- The Sandbox – Sand Valley of The Short Course along with expanded ac- Pebble Beach Resort ent place. While some resorts have come Rome, Wisconsin commodations at the resort will complete the Pebble Beach, California and gone since 1992, a number of spectacu- Designed by the formidable duo of Bill Coore property, Thompson was coy. “We never stop Perhaps the most intriguing par-3 course in lar “bucket list” golf resorts have opened and and Ben Crenshaw in 2018, this 17-hole short thinking about how to improve this beautiful America is now under construction at the thrived. Besides great championship golf and course is as playful as its name indicates. property,” he said. “There’s lots of interest- famed Pebble Beach Resort in California. luxurious accommodations, each looked for a Holes are positioned over 25 acres on a sandy of It ing ideas about what we can do next to make While the 670-yard course is officially called a unique amenity that would make visits to their ridge and stretch from a diminutive 40 yards up Forest Dunes even better.” redesign of an existing par-3 course designed properties extra special. What better amenity to 140 yards. Golfers familiar with the game’s by Peter Hay, the TGR design firm owned by than a short, nifty and uber-fun par-3 course? architectural legacy get to enjoy some fasci- By Neal Kotlarek Top of the Rock – Big Cedar Lodge Tiger Woods has basically reconfigured the If there is a single parallel be- nating green complexes, including a Redan, Branson, Missouri course which had played counter-clockwise tween the par-3 courses at Bandon Dunes, a Biarritz, and a punch bowl. As the 25 acres Threetops – Treetops Resort 6th Hole Leave it to Jack Nicklaus to take on the chal- away from the ocean and will now play clock- Sand Valley, Big Cedar Lodge, Threetops and used for the course are relatively flat, the put- lenge of building a par-3 course that features wise toward the ocean. In an exclusive inter- Forest Dunes, it is the priority placed on pro- ting surfaces serve as the greatest defenses lakes, waterfalls, massive rock formations, view, John Sawin, VP and Director of Golf at viding golfers a fun and thrilling experience. against par. Fortunately, the short distances wandering creeks, bass-filled ponds and even Pebble Beach, said the entire concept of the Most everyone can hit a wedge shot 60 or 70 on many holes allow players to dial in tee shots Arnie’s Barn – a 150-year-old storehouse re- course is to make it accessible to players of all yards onto a large, gathering green. As this near the flagstick to prevent against long lag located from Arnold Palmer’s backyard in skill levels. distance levels the playing field, high-hand- putts over multiple undulations. Latrobe, Penn. Say what?!?!?!? “Tiger’s philosophy is welcoming icappers have a decent chance of winning Sand Valley is located just outside While every golf hole has been lov- and friendly to juniors and beginners,” Sawin closest-to-the-pin contests against sin- of Wisconsin Rapids in central Wisconsin. ingly crafted by Nicklaus, the primary charac- said. “You won’t lose any balls on the course gle-digit competitors. While Judge Smails The complex is home to two acclaimed cham- teristic of the course is breathtaking scenery. and you can use almost any club in your bag, would surely disapprove, these courses have pionship courses: Sand Valley, designed by Stand on the 1st hole green and enjoy the view depending upon how the wind plays on any a tendency to generate wagers between indi- Coore and Crenshaw, and Mammoth Dunes, of the Chapel of the Ozarks above you and particular day.” viduals and teams. Throw in some on-course designed by David McLay Kidd. Both courses Table Rock Lake in the distance. The course The signature hole on the course, cold beverages and you have a veritable are lovingly laid out across unlikely prehistor- stretches to a modest 1,420 yards and includes scheduled to open next spring, will undoubted- Happy Hour for Hackers. ic sand dunes previously covered up by a tree a few holes that look suspiciously inspired ly be No. 2, a virtual replica of the famous 7th Here is a look at some of the newest farm. Elegant accommodations include suites, by Augusta National, home of The Masters, hole on Pebble Beach. “We wanted to create and best par-3 courses across the Midwest, cottages and lodge rooms. where Nicklaus won six times and finished in the opportunity for all visitors to experience along with a preview of two courses now un- the top 10 an amazing 22 times over his career. one of (golf’s) most famous holes,” Woods said der construction, one of which is out West. The Short Course – Forest Dunes Big Cedar Lodge is promoted as in his announcement of the project. Roscommon, Michigan “America’s Premier Wilderness Resort.” Even the yardages of each hole will Threetops – Treetops Resort Resort owner Lew Thompson looked out over Owned by Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro carry meaning. “We connected the yardag- Gaylord, Michigan the horizon of the short course a day prior to Shops, the sprawling property features cham- es with some significant dates in our history,” It’s still amazing that after all these years, this its grand opening in August. His eyes sparkled pionship courses designed by Tiger Woods, said Sawin. The 9th hole is 100 yards long. Tiger Woods nine-hole northern Michigan course stands as he observed the rolling topography of the Par 3, Tom Fazio, Coore-Crenshaw, and Gary Player. Tiger, of course, won the 100th US Open at out among all others due to the dramatic land- course, the sprawling sand bunkers, and the Pebble Beach Pebble Beach.” scape which makes for disorienting yardage vast forest in the distance. “Pretty good stuff, Resort Baths of Blackwolf Run The Par 3 course will also be com- calculations. The 3rd hole, called “Devil’s don’t you think?” he asked rhetorically before Kohler, Wisconsin. plemented by a 20,000 square-foot practice Drop,” plays 207 yards from the middle tees he addressed his tee shot. Just announced in August, this 10-hole course green and a 5,000 square-foot patio.

Big Cedar Lodge 20 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 21 University Ridge GC

Shepherd's Shiloh Park Highway 173 Crook GC GC GOLFChicago On THE Highway 83 shelf Inside the Tradition Directory Highway 12 Golf Facilities of Interest Tim Cronin Unlike Any Other Highway 59 to Every Golfer

Highway 120 Make sure when Highway 134 Village Green GC you play a course Butterfield

Stonewall Winchester from our directory Orchard GC that you mention or a golfer, the Masters is the equivalent annual Tuesday gathering of Masters even tickets to practice rounds – and even Highway 176 Highway 31 Highway 176 Lake Bluff Highway 83 you saw it in the Fof comfort food. It’s familiar, welcome, winners, and what and why the defending the herculean work The Augusta Chronicle, GC and altogether satisfying. champions selected as the menu for the the tournament’s paper of record, goes GOLFChicago Crystal Lake Rd Rawson Bridge Road Roberts Road Course Directory. Highway 12 Rand Road This year’s Masters will be different, of evening. (He does not mention that only through to produce an 80-page preview Highway 22 Half Day Road course, played in November and without a few went for the Haggis defender Sandy section each year, those these days without Randall Road spectators. The combination means azaleas Lyle, a English-born Scot, offered in 1989. stalwarts David Westin and Scott Michaux, Lake Cook Road

nowhere near in bloom and roars silenced Steak was the safe alternate choice.) each of whom has been laid off in recent Highway 47 by the absence of the 40,000 or so fans that The book is divided into seven days, years, victims of the industry’s retrenchment Highway 66 Dundee Road Sportsman’s Chicago CC Executive Milwaukee Road Glenview flood the leafy grounds in a normal April. with several chapters in each. Some of in the Internet era. Airport Sheridan Road Whisper National Creek GC Nine GC Mark Cannizzaro, golf writer for the the book seems to be a light rewrite of November brings with it more than a Highway 72 Highway 12 Rand Road Rob Roy The Glen New York Post, takes us there in Seven Days Cannizzaro’s Post coverage – at one point, hint of winter, not the promise of spring, Highway 31 GC Club Euclid Shermer in Augusta Randall Road Higgins Road Highland , a lively addition to the lengthy he writes “last month” when detailing a but “Seven Days in Augusta” is comfort Woods GC Glenview list of literature on the yearly gathering at recent Masters, a clear indication of copy writing for the Augusta faithful in this year Park GC Highway 25 Bridges At Highway 59 Poplar Creek Golf Road

Augusta National. and paste at work – but there are enough of the long wait. McLean Boulevard G & CC Chick Evans Weber If you don’t know a great deal about fresh nuggets within that even those GC Park GC Highlands Tam O’Shanter Touhy Avenue Seven Days in Augusta Lake Street / Route 20 GC Robert Black the Masters beyond the pablum CBS serves who have devoured volumes of Masters Bowes Road of Elgin Highway 19 / Irving Park Road GC

Woodale Road Edgebrook up annually, this is the book for you. And reporting and watched hour upon hour Behind the Scenes at the Masters Bowes Eaglewood Resort GC Billy Caldwell Creek CC GC Sidney if you do know something of the inner of television coverage learn something By Mark Cannizzaro O’Hare Marovitz GC International Airport workings, the book’s subtitle, “Behind the new on most every page. Triumph Books Orchard Road

Randall Road Maple Harlem Avenue / Highway 43 $26.95 Meadows GC Indian Scenes at the Masters,” serves up a bevy Did you know that PGA Tour player Boundary GC Oak of stories that you might not have heard. Scott Brown, an Augustan who has yet to St. Andrews Meadows GC DuPage Diversey Highway 59 G & CC Airport Range

Links & Tees Mannheim Road Highway 12/20 For instance, Cannizzaro reveals just play in the Masters, is the grandson of the Highway 53 A Wizard Beyond Golf GC Sheridan Road Lake Street / Route 20 who the Butler was for whom Butler Cabin, Highway 38High octogenarian couple that owns the last Author Jeff Wallach turns to fiction with CBS’s studio for the week, was built. He goes house remaining in the neighborhood Columbus “Mr. Wizard,” the complicated tale of Park GC into fascinating detail about the Champions immediately west of the course that two brothers, or at least half-brothers, Roosevelt Road Roosevelt Road

Highway 25 Fresh Dinner, the Augusta has bought up, house-by- Randall Road Meadow GC looking for their father, or fathers. Cantigny Oak Brook 22nd Street house, and turned into a parking lot? GC GC Wallach spins this Highway 56 Or that the Thatchers have turned down 31st Street

Highway 47 Arrowhead Meadow tightly-woven yarn GC Lark GC seven-figure offers for their modest Wolf Road Jackson across greater New Marquette Park GC bungalow? Orchard Park GC Highway 31 York, Long Island, Valley GC Harlem Avenue / Highway 43 South Shore Did you know there’s a New Yorker, Flagg GC Creek GC Midway Seven Airport Oliver Katcher by name, who goes to Dublin, Oregon, New York Street Bridges GC Aurora / 75th Street Sugar Grove the Masters each year – but drives and within their Airport Plainfield / Naperville Road Village Zigfield 83rd St Greens GC Troy GC

back to the Big Apple on Saturday own fantasy worlds. Highway 59 Highway 34 / Ogden Avenue Highway 53 Springbrook Harborside night and throws a party for his pals Fox Bend GC The connec- 111th Street International GC GC Blackberry Boughton on Sunday, complete with Masters Waters Edge tion to golf? Aside Oaks GC Naperbrook Ridge GC 90 GC GC McCarthy Road sandwiches? Cannizzaro calls him 111th Street Highway 6 from a few stops State Street Bolingbrook Ruffled “the patron,” playing off Augusta’s Feathers GC Joe Lewis at New York-area clubs, they chase GC GC Highway 25 135th Street highfalutin’ name for its fans. Halstead Street / Highway 1 82nd Avenue their family’s past at an Irish course 143rd Street 147th Street There is a revealing interview Renwick Road Burnham with an unpronounceable name that Lemont Silver Woods GC All information in this directory is Mistwood Lake CC

with Ernie Els, who should have GC Cicero their mother had hinted at before she provided by participating courses. 151st Street won the Masters at least once on 159th Street River Oaks GOLFChicago is not responsible or Lockport Street Highway 53

LaGrange Road Highway 45 GC

died. There the search gets even more Highway 59 liable for errors or incorrect information. Archer Avenue George Dunne Weber Road talent alone, but is remembered Highway 47 complicated. Map © Copyright 2020 GOLFChicago National GC more for six-putting the first green Ravisloe Glenwoodie Magazine. All rights reserved. CC GC in the first round in 2016. Other The search, of course, is also for Gouger 183rd Street chapters cover Tiger Woods’ first themselves. And Mr. Wizard. Course Managers: For inclusion in this directory, or and most recent victories, and Flossmor Mr. Wizard to update your listing, pleaseHighway 52 call / Jefferson Street what each meant to the game, the 815.741.8005 or email us at Lincoln Highway Highway 30 influence Arnold Palmer had on By Jeff Wallach [email protected] Harlem Avenue / Highway 43 the tournament and vice versa, the Open Books ends to which scalpers go to get $17.95 paperback; $9.99 Kindle Heritage badges for the tournament – and Bluffs GC Balmoral 22 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Morris Fall 2020Woods CC 23 CC Highway 6 Arrowhead Balmoral Woods Golf Blackberry Oaks Bowes Creek Maple Meadows The Preserve at Forest Preserve Golf Fox Bend Golf Course 630-653-5800 Club Golf Course Country Club Golf Club Oak Meadows Courses | Cook County 630-554-3939 26W151 Butterfield Rd. 708-672-7448 630-553-7170 847-214-5880 630-616-8424 630-595-0071 800-460-0010 3516 Route 34 Wheaton, IL 60189 26732 S. Balmoral Woods 2245 Kennedy Rd. 1250 Bowes Creek Blvd. 272 Addison Rd. 900 N. Wood Dale Rd. forestpreservegolf.com Oswego, IL 60543 arrowheadgolfclub.org Dr. Bristol, IL 60512 Elgin, Illinois 60124 Wood Dale, IL 60191 Addison, IL 60101 Affordable GOLF. Friendly www.foxbendgolfcourse.com Crete, IL 60417 Arrowhead Golf Club is www.blackberryoaks.com bowescreekcc.com DuPageGolf.com DuPageGolf.com SERVICE. Fantastic Fox Bend is Oswego’s own recognized for its beautifully www.balmoralwoods.com Located just forty minutes Ranked as Golfweek’s Best After extensive renovations, EXPERIENCE. welcoming and challenging Maple Meadow’s Forest Preserve Golf maintained course and A fun public golf course west of Chicago, Blackberry Courses You Can Play, Championship “West 18” the 288-acre The Preserve public course. This 18-hole, inviting atmosphere. on IL-394 in Crete 40 Oaks Golf Course was Bowes Creek Country Club at Oak Meadows is a offers something for every par-72 course boasts plush features a modern prairie golfer. PLUS … save EVERY Arrowhead is a public minutes south of Chicago. built to blend and enhance gives you every option to design, and is honored to new world-class 18-hole fairways, mature trees and course which offers The 18-hole course with a the natural assets of the play your ideal round of course, practice facility and DAY with the FPG Golf and challenging greens. With be a qualifying site for the Rewards Card! impeccable golfing driving range is spread out property, such as Blackberry golf. Along with annual Illinois Open and the host environmental haven— 34 well-positioned bunkers conditions at affordable over undulating terrain and Creek, the wetlands, the memberships, we offer a course for the DuPage designed by golf architect • Billy Caldwell: 9 Holes and water coming into play rates on three separate features a number of holes prairie lands and mature oak “member-for-a-day” pass, Junior Classic. Greg Martin. • Burnham Woods: 18 Holes on 11 holes, the course par 72 18-hole layouts with mature oak trees. groves. Blackberry Oaks is allowing you the privilege tests skills of all levels. Choose from four sets of • Golf Digest Green Star • Chick Evans: 18 Holes surrounded by forest Also the annual home to a true “Link with Nature.” to play unlimited golf with tees and enjoy immaculate Award Winner USFGA FootGolf is also • Edgebrook: 18 Holes preserve. The West, East the Will County Amateur in Blackberry Oaks Golf cart as well as full use bent grass fairways and • Golf Inc. Renovation of available on select days. and South Courses feature the Spring. A “must play” Course features 18 holes of the practice facility. If greens. the Year • George Dunne National: Enjoy a drink or dinner on new bunker renovations and course on the south side of golf, a practice range, playing a quick round of Maple Meadows’ 18 Holes the deck overlooking the enhancements. The practice and a great venue for your an exceptional junior golf nine or eighteen holes suits • Golf Digest Best Courses scenic course at Pearce’s convenient location features You Can Play • Harry Semrow: Driving area includes a lighted next event or function. academy and a fantastic your game better, we offer easy access from O’Hare, Range & Mini Golf restaurant, or book the driving range, putting green Book tee times online or restaurant. Please visit that as well. Bowes Creek I-290, I-355, I-294 and Route • ASGCA Design Pavilion for your next and chipping green. Group check out other information allows the public golfer Excellence Award • Highland Woods: outing or special event. www.blackberryoaks.com 83. 18 Holes and individual golf lessons about the property at www. to learn more and to reserve to experience the private The Preserve’s location Take advantage of tee time Find our best specials and • Indian Boundary: 18 Holes are available. balmoralwoods.com. a tee time. club, without an annual promotions only on www. features easy access from specials and book online. Home of the Blackberry membership. DuPageGolf.com. O’Hare, I-290, I-355, I-294 • Joe Louis: 18 Holes Amateur, the premier and Route 83. • Meadowlark: 9 Holes Midwest amateur golf For news and tee times • River Oaks: 18 Holes event. visit DuPageGolf.com www.blackberryamateur.com

Cantigny Golf Chicago Park District Coyote Run Green Meadows The Glen Club Glenview Park Glenview Prairie Club Glenwoodie Golf Club Golf Club 630-668-8463 Golf Golf Course Golf Club 847-724-7272 847-657-1637 708-758-1212 847-724-0250 27w270 Mack Rd. 312-245-0909 708-957-8700 630-810-5330 2901 W. Lake Ave. 2800 W. Lake Ave. 19301 S State St. Shermer Rd. Wheaton, IL 60189 cpdgolf.com 800 Kedzie Ave. 18 W. 201 W. 63rd St. Glenview, IL 60026 Glenview, IL 60026 Glenwood, IL 60425 Glenview, IL 60025 cantignygolf.com Great Golf in the Heart of Flossmoor, IL 60422 Westmont, IL 60559 theglenclub.com golfglenview.com glenwoodiegolf.com golfglenview.com Designed by Roger Packard, the City. www.coyoterungolf.com DuPageGolf.com Chicago’s finest semi- • Meticulous conditions Glenwoodie, just 25 minutes Cantigny is both challenging With six courses, three Coyote Run, which opened Green Meadows is a fun private golf experience. Experience pure golfing like no other 9-hole from Chicago, has been and breathtakingly scenic. driving ranges and two in 2005, sits on the former nine-hole gem that offers The Glen Club is a enjoyment at the Glenview course a favorite championship miniature golf courses, stunning Tom Fazio Park Golf Club. After a Cantigny Golf’s Red site of Cherry Hills. It quality conditions in a • Affordable Rates. course for serious and Oak Club loyalty program there’s golf enjoyment for has been completely traditional parkland setting. designed championship complete renovation in recreational golfers in rewards customers with the whole family. redesigned by Greg Martin. Featuring three par 4s course located on the 2014-2015, the course has • 4 sets of tees to meet all Chicago and Northwest free golf and other benefits. A hidden gem in the and six par 3s, the Green former site of the historic re-opened to rave reviews. skill levels Indiana for over 90 years. The Young Executive PLUS…save EVERY DAY, southern suburbs, Coyote Meadows layout is the Glenview Naval Air Station. Bent grass from tee to • 90 minute pace of play Consistently ranked in the Program offers reduced secure early tee time access Run’s course conditions perfect blend of challenge, In the heart of a 195-acre green, rolling fairways and for a quick 9 top 35 public courses, the green fees for golfers 39 and more with the CPD rival that of the best country enjoyment and value for all refuge, The Glen Club meticulous landscapes • Challenging, fun and 18-hole, par-72, 6902-yard and under. Players Advantage Card! clubs in the area. Only 20 skill levels! features rolling terrain, await you on this 18-hole, enjoyable for all. course features bent-grass Cantigny’s 27 holes are • Robert A. Black: 9 Holes minutes from Chicago, Senior discounts are dramatic elevation changes, 6,133 yard par-70 course. After your round stop fairways and large rolling ideal for outings ranging • Sydney R. Marovitz: Coyote Run is conveniently available every day, and tranquil lakes and striking The Glenview Park Golf in for a cold beverage in greens surrounded by from 16 to 220 golfers. The 9 Holes accessed from I-80, I-294 DuPage Golf Discount vistas. Club offers the amenities of our beautiful clubhouse groves of majestic oaks. a private club, but is open course employs a full-time • Jackson Park: 18 Holes and I-57. Great senior Card holders save on every Enjoy the grand 48,000 setting overlooking the 9th • 14,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse square-foot clubhouse, to the public and close to golf-event coordinator to • Columbus Park: 9 Holes rates are available Monday round. green. Craft Beers, Fine and Community Center ensure an exceptional through Friday. Visit www. Look for Green Meadows superb dining, 21 overnight home. Wines sport and soft drinks with Fully Stocked Golf experience for planners and • Marquette Park: 9 Holes coyoterungolf.com for the behind the Westmont water guest rooms, a grand Golf Inc. magazine voted available. Shop guests. • South Shore: 9 Holes best rates available. tower on 63rd St. ballroom and the finest in the Glenview Park Golf Make Glenview Prairie Club the Best Renovation • Full Service Bar and Grille Cantigny Golf Academy • Diversey Range Find our best specials and corporate amenities and Club your home club for a and Outdoor Patio offers clubfitting, all-weather promotions only on www. membership. of the Year in 2016. Come premier 9-hole experience! The only double-deck out to see what everyone • Electric Cart Fleet practice, golf fitness and range in Chicago. DuPageGolf.com. more. is talking about. Host of the • Lighted Practice Range/ USGA - 2017 U.S. Women’s PGA Professional Staff Amateur Four-Ball Qualifier. 24 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 25 T H E B L U F F S C H A N N A H O N , I L E S T . 1 9 9 3

Golf Center Harborside The Bluffs The Highlands of Elgin Ravisloe Country Club St. Andrews Golf & Springbrook Stonewall Orchard Des Plaines International G.C. Public Golf Club 847-931-5950 708-798-5600 Country Club Golf Course 847-740-4890 847-803-GOLF 312-782-7837 815-467-7888 875 Sports Way 18231 Park Ave, 630-231-3100 630-848-5060 25675 West Highway 60 353 N River Rd. 11001 S. Doty Ave. East 24355 W. Bluff Rd. Elgin, IL 60123 Homewood, IL 60430 2241 Route 59 2220 W. 83rd St. Grayslake, IL 60030 Des Plaines, IL 60016 Chicago, IL 60628 Channahon, IL 60410 highlandsofelgin.com ravisloe.com West Chicago, IL 60185 Naperville, IL 60564 stonewallorchard.com GolfCenterDesPlaines.com harborsidegolf.com heritagebluffs.com The Highlands of Elgin Ravisloe Country Club standrewsgc.com golfnaperville.org Cutting through hundred- Located just south of the 18 Holes: Par 72 has become a premier has been one of the most 36 Holes: Springbrook Golf Course year old oak and pine trees, 9 Holes: Par 27 acclaimed golf courses Yardage: 80 - 210 loop in the City of Chicago, Yardage: 5,035- 7,171 destination for thousands Course #1: par 71, commands some of the Stonewall Orchard Golf Club Harborside features two Located near the of golfers throughout the in Chicagoland since 5116 - 6920 yards finest views of Naperville’s has quickly become one Chicagoland’s only fully- championship-style links region. Nine new holes its inception. Bearing Course #2: par 72, open space and trails. of Chicago’s most prolific lighted 9-hole course is intersection of Interstates courses designed by 80 and 55 just south of reclaim an old stone the signature of world- 5341 - 6818 yards The facility features a public golf courses. open late year-round, and renowned architect Dick quarry, and take maximum renowned course designer Since 1926, golfers have challenging, parkland-style Since opening in 1999, until midnight Fall–Fall. The Joliet, Heritage Bluffs is Nugent. the pride of the Channahon advantage of the unique Donald Ross, it has sought out St. Andrews championship course, the Arthur Hills-designed 80-bay lighted and heated Harborside is home to and dramatic landforms that played host to many great for its two championship a practice facility with a gem located in northwest Driving Range is one of Park District. The tranquil Chicago’s largest practice surroundings make a day were left behind, including golfers and features rolling courses. With its vast one-acre turf practice tee, suburban Grayslake has the Top 50 Ranges in the facility, a prairie-style a twelve-acre quarry lake. mounds, deep bunkers and rolling terrain and mature a large practice putting served as Final Stage country: automatic ball tee- playing golf fun and relaxing. clubhouse and The Pier at Along with our award- Four holes hug the top of challenging greens. Located trees, St. Andrews offers a green, and two short- Qualifying site for the U.S. up, 300-yard outdoor landing Harborside restaurant. the bluff thirty to forty feet just 25 minutes from high-quality golf experience game practice greens Open, and currently sits in area, plus 11 grass tees. The winning course we also Harborside’s Port and feature a large all-grass above the water, providing Chicago, 10 miles from for players, golf outings, with bunkers. Golfers of rotation with Olympia Fields 1-1/2 acre Short Game Area Starboard courses rank golfers with incredible the Indiana state line and leagues and permanent all skill levels return time and Medinah Country Club features three sand bunkers practice range along with annually among the a large putting green and a views and numerous shot across the street from the tee-times. Guests will also and again to play. Enjoy as host site for the Illinois and multiple putting greens; Midwest’s list of best options on each hole. The Homewood Metra Station, enjoy the award-winning post-game refreshments PGA Section Championship you can practice chip shots separate chipping green and courses you can play. bunker. After your round you prairie-style clubhouse Ravisloe is your one stop 32-acre Practice Center with on the expansive patio held every Fall. from up to 60 yards out. features an expanded golf destination. Wine-Dine- premium range balls and with great views of the Unlimited Memberships are can relax in our Grille Room or out on the patio, enjoying shop, locker rooms, event Stay-Play with Ravisloe, La 10 heated, sheltered hitting course. Springbrook also available for the Course and rooms and a full-scale food Voûte Bistro and La Banque bays. Other amenities: golf offers lessons, outings, a Short Game, and the Driving a full menu of delicious food and beverage choices. and beverage operation. Hotel. carts with GPS, J.J.’s Bar well-stocked golf shop, and Range. Restaurant, Sports & Grill, exquisite lakeside more. Bar, Pro Shop and GolfTec ceremony site and live Lessons. entertainment.

Mistwood Golf Club Naperbrook Orchard Valley Golf PGA TOUR Superstore Tam O’Shanter Golf University Ridge Golf Water’s Edge Golf Weber Park Golf 815-254-3333 Golf Course Course 1017 Butterfield Rd. Course & Learning Course Course Course 1700 W. Renwick Rd. 630-378-4215 630-907-0500 Downers Grove, 60515 Center 608-845-7700 708-671-1032 847-674-1500, ext. 3600 Romeoville, IL 60446 22204 W. 111th St. / 2411 W. Illinois Ave. 1319 E. Golf Rd. 847-965-2344 9002 County Road PD 7205 West 115th St. skokieparks.org mistwoodgc.com Hassert Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506 Schaumburg, 60173 6700 West Howard Street Madison, WI 53593 Worth, IL 60482 9 Holes: Par 27 Mistwood Golf Club, Plainfield, IL 60585 orchardvalleygolf.com 295 Center Dr. Vernon Hills, Niles, IL 60714 universityridge.com watersedgegolf.com Yardage: 1,095 with its recent multi- golfnaperville.org 6th Best Public Course in 60061 golftam.com University Ridge is Rated Best Places To Play Located just twenty million dollar renovations Located in Plainfield, scenic Illinois by GOLF magazine. PGA TOUR Superstore One of the most important home to the University by Golf Digest. minutes north of Chicago and new state of the art Naperbrook Golf Course is One of Chicagoland’s best carries the largest selection courses in popularizing the of Wisconsin Men’s & Water’s Edge is Chicago’s on I-94, all ages will enjoy golf-learning center, has a “links style” course that public courses, Golf Digest of golf clubs, clothing, game of golf in America Women’s Golf Teams. Since south side destination Skokie’s Weber Park Golf become one of the premier features rolling hills and ranks Orchard Valley 4½ footwear and accessories is located right here in 2016, University Ridge course. This championship Course. This 9-hole, par-3 golf experiences in the wide fairways. Challenges Stars! A true championship for your game. With the Niles, Illinois. In 1953, has been the host site of 18-hole golf course offers golf course features bent Chicagoland area in the way of ponds, a layout featuring wetlands, most advanced technology Tam O’Shanter Country the PGA Tour Champions, bent grass greens and grass greens, beautiful Mistwood, host of the double green and hidden lakes, roughs, water for club fitting, we also offer Club hosted the first-ever American Family Insurance fairways and a complete landscaping and is ideal Illinois Women’s Open, bunkers await golfers hazards, marshes and the Fitting Van Experience nationally televised golf Championship, which day/night practice and range for learning to play golf, features new Scottish-style of all levels. Additional more. which is a TOUR caliber tournament. is hosted by Ryder Cup facility, along with The Edge working on your short stacked sod-wall bunkers, amenities include a ten-acre assessment. With three Today, a public 9-hole Captain Steve Stricker. A Bar & Grill for great meals game, or gathering a few which are not something driving range, separate PLUS…a program for Chicagoland locations, par-33 course remains, public golf course, designed and daily specials. friends for a fun round of seen in traditional American lesson tee and practice everyone! come see why nothing maintained with the goal of by Robert Trent Jones II, FootGolf. golf. Other amenities putting greens. Enjoy • SAVE on every round compares to PGA TOUR providing playing conditions University Ridge is yours PLUS…a program for include a full-service pro post-game refreshments with the OV Rewards Superstore. reminiscent of those to play with all green fees everyone! shop, golf instruction and on the picturesque patio; PLUS program. Hogan, Palmer and Nicklaus under $100. Play where the • SAVE on every round wonderful dining. Naperbrook also offers • UNLIMITED twilight golf enjoyed years ago. Swing Badgers and the Pros play, with the Edge PLUS Pass lessons, outings, a well- and range with the PPP out for a scenic round and University Ridge!!! • UNLIMITED twilight golf • Golf Magazine’s “2013 stocked golf shop and much walk in the footsteps of Best U.S. Renovation You card. and range with the Edge more. legends at Tam O’Shanter! Practice Club Can Play” • Annual Memberships Year-round instruction • Golf Range Association and MORE! available! of America “2013 Top 50 Golf Ranges.” 26 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 27 Monterey Peninsula of time” in Spanish, but the course serves with tall grass and two classic MacKenzie continued from page 15 up ample shares of drama from hole to bunkers. Still two more bunkers protect the On THE Hey Man, Dig These Marion Hollins – the only American woman hole to hole. back side of the large green. If the flagstick CORKSCREWS who carried a men’s polo handicap, and Considered by many golf critics as a is placed on the far left side of the hole, be who was a guiding force behind the great classic of golf’s early Golden Age, prepared to hold your breath as the fronting Stephen Hawk Coursey Graves establishment of Cypress Point. the course’s features include sprawling bunkers snuggle up to the green’s fringe. Pasatiempo was designed in 1929 bunkers, rolling hills, small ravines ,and The better play here is to aim for the center by the great Alister MacKenzie, with a large barranca. A joyous romp from of the green and hope to sink a long putt later updating performed by Jim Urbina start to finish, it seems appropriate that to end your round with a bang. and Tom Doak. Interestingly, MacKenzie Pasatiempo’s signature hole is its last one. Few golf trips in America can match abell Coursey is a busy guy these days. time temperatures owned a home set just off the sixth fair- While few championship courses end on the exhilaration of a visit to the Monterey CIn addition to being the winemaker at and slower ripening. way and made it his primary residence a par 3, this 169-yard hole can truly make area. Great golf, comfortable temperatures Lombardi Winery (profiled last issue), he I have now had until he passed away in 1934. Set in the or break one’s round. From an elevated and even a great oceanside drive provide is also consulting winemaker at Flanagan the opportunity to rolling southern hills near Monterey Bay, tee, the player must weave a long-iron travelers with memories that will last a Wines, and winemaker and co-owner, with try eight of Cabell Pasatiempo might mean “relaxed passage or middle-iron over a barranca teeming lifetime. John Graves, at Coursey Graves Winery Coursey’s wines. in Santa Rosa, California. He began his They all have a Royal Fox career in wine in Burgundy, and went on smooth and silky continued from page 13 to toil in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and mouthfeel. Thinking has a reciprocity program with the sister club New Zealand. this had to reflect The Grove that allows players to experience He is committed to constantly improv- the intervention a second course.” Tulk pointed out that The ing the wines he makes from vintage to of the winemaker, Grove also has an active tennis program fea- vintage by understanding his vineyards I asked him about turing two tennis instructors. “Both properties and maximizing their quality. He also feels how he achieves have amazing social environments that truly obligated to mentor young winegrowers that, and he had make members feel like part of an extended by teaching parameters they can use to this to say, “First family. We offer lots of diverse programs and customize and improve grape farming is vineyard work. events geared toward every member of a for better produce. I get up-front and family – even those who don’t play golf.” Although there are plenty of renowned mid-palate con- Designed by Robert Bruce Harris, The wineries and vineyards throughout Sonoma, centration through Grove is an impeccably manicured course that of course, the lesser-known vineyards of diligent effort in stretches to 7,000 yards from the back tees Bennett Valley quietly yield some of the the vineyard, by but offers multiple tee options for all handicap area’s most highly concentrated fruit. This managing fruit load levels. Harris is a member of the Illinois Golf is because the well-drained volcanic soils to the amount of Hall of Fame. His acclaimed designs include of the area ensure that the vines grow vine canopy, and the Country Club of Florida in the Village deep root systems in search of hydration. careful applications [email protected] of Golf, Illinois State University Golf Course Ultimately this leads to concentrated, of irrigation. I have in Normal, and The Brute at Grand Geneva complex wines, as the water-stressed some control over berry size, and there- Coursey Graves Chardonnay 2018 $60 Resort in Lake Geneva, Wis. vines will focus their attention on grapes, fore juice to skin ratio, by controlling The fruit for this wine was sourced from Along with outstanding championship rather than luxurious foliage. The rocky how much water-stress the vines have the Durell and Heintz vineyards on the golf, The Grove places emphasis on its soils coupled with the cool weather mimic at various times during the growing Sonoma coast. It was fermented in oak dining experience. The club’s culinary team the austere conditions of Bordeaux. season. Extra stress at flowering and and stainless-steel barrels. It is light is anchored by two Chicago legends: Joe Coursey Graves is located on vineyard fruit set limits berry size, while more bright lemon yellow in the glass, which is Roireau, former corporate chef at Phil Stefani’s sites 800 to 1500 feet above sea level on water increases berry size. I don’t have appropriate as it opens with the smell of Signature Restaurants, and Luigi Garcia, former Bennett Mountain overlooking Sonoma, on a standard plan each vintage, but rather lemons, paired with a hint of melon and executive chef at Riva seafood restaurant on the western edge of the ancient, volcanic change according to conditions. crushed stone. Those flavors continue Chicago’s Navy Pier. “We wanted to provide Mayacamas Range that separates Napa and “Second is tannin management during on the palate, abetted by a zippy acidity a top-tier food experience for our members Sonoma. The winery, estate vineyards, and the winemaking process. Certain tannins and a suggestion of oak. It wraps up in and guests,” said Tulk. “With two of Chicago’s caves are built into the slope overlooking (phenols) extract from grapes at different a brisk finish. Only 91 cases were made. top chefs now on our staff, we are confident the Bennett Valley below. Eighteen acres are ranges in temperature. Also, they bind Coursey Graves Syrah 2016 $65 that goal has been realized.” planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, at different temperatures. I manage the This 100% Syrah hails from Coursey Graves’ Regular membership at Royal Fox Country Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Syrah. temperatures during fermentation very estate vineyard in Bennett Valley. It is an Club provides unlimited golf and amenities to In addition to the estate vineyard, closely and change to either extract, not opaque but brilliant purple color. It features access to members and their families to both Coursey Graves relies on two others as extract, or bind, depending on taste and aromas of dark red fruits. The rather lean Royal Fox and The Grove. Family membership well. Nestled on the sloped edge of an mouthfeel. I do use lab numbers to double palate offers flavors of blackberry and includes the primary member, spouse, and ancient volcano, Coombsville Vineyard check what I taste. However, it’s mostly by olive, with a bit of pepper at the end. It’s children under 25. Young Executive mem- is home to sixteen acres of Bordeaux taste. After working with these vineyards all complemented by good tannins and berships (age 40 and under) are available for varieties growing between the red and and my cellar for a few years, I’ve started a moderately long finish. Production was individuals and families seeking a networking black igneous basalt and the white, ashy to learn where the wines’ tannins need limited to 268 cases. hub and social gathering spaces. volcanic tuff. At two thousand feet above to be at the end of fermentation to age For more information on Royal Fox sea level, Cabernet from Howell Mountain properly upon the wines’ release and For more about Coursey Graves and many other Country Club, visit www.royalfoxcc.com. Vineyard benefits from much cooler day- subsequent aging.” wine reviews, be sure to visit winervana.com. 28 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 29 final putt The End of an Endless Year Tim Cronin

t was the silence that was most noticeable. When restrictions were lifted, first out of state IThe lack of cars rolling by at almost all hours. and then in Illinois, playing golf became more The quiet of evening in the middle of the day. than recreation with, depending on your game, The Pandemic of 2020 silenced the world. a dash of competition thrown in. It became an Sadly, hundreds of thousands are silent forev- outlet, a release from working at home and the This bizarro world er. That is the biggest loss, but everyone and weekly pressure cooker of going to the super- everything was affected, including golf, the market at the right time, when few were about quietest sport. and you didn’t have to worry about someone where the Masters With nobody on the course, the sounds of walking the wrong way down the snack aisle. the game disappeared. All that was left were In the great outdoors, far apart from humanity, the birds chirping away and singing their songs. you could clear your throat while clearing your is played after the Gone was the smack of a driver. The crisp click head. On the tee, on the fairway, on the green, of an iron meeting ball. The thump of a wedge even in a bunker, socially distant was just part against the sand. The rattling of clubs in the of the regular routine, not a mandate. A mask, Kentucky Derby, bag. The whir of a helicoptered iron after a standard dress now in public, wasn’t needed shank. The plunk of the ball dropping into the when you were routinely 75 feet away from the cup. rest of the gang. which is run after We didn’t even get the latter at first when the There was a new-found joy in the old rou- world began to reopen and tees were allowed tines, from picking the right club to clear that to be planted into the ground. The plunk was pesky creek to lining up a long putt with a pair the Indy 500, a replaced by the thunk of ball against the plastic of breaks. (Remind us to take a lesson from Jon 2020 donut. Not quite the same. Rahm.) It was unsettling, as has been almost the The combination of pent-up demand and planet where the entire year. The calendar ceased to matter, and little else on the schedule meant tee sheets were then, at least in sports, was shuffled beyond filled almost everywhere, from private clubs to recognition. We still await the 2020 Masters, public munis. If restaurants weren’t open right great summer that rite of spring. Playing in November is away, at least players were on the course. And a certainly a tradition unlike any other. Amateur funny thing happened. Once pro shops opened, horticulturists worldwide are eager to see what equipment sales jumped to record levels. double of the Augusta National looks like a couple of weeks According to market research company Golf before Thanksgiving. But only once. Datatech, July’s sales of equipment – everything This bizarro world where the Masters is from balls to gloves to drivers to putters – set a John Deere Classic played after the Kentucky Derby, which is run record for the month, with $388.6 million in sales, after the Indy 500, a planet where the great breaking the record of $368.1 million set in June summer double of the John Deere Classic and 2007. That might not have made up completely and British Open British Open is put on hold, is not something for March and April, when most of the country anyone wants to get used to. was in time out, but it helped. (Sales had been Likewise the U.S. Open in September. That down over 31 percent from 2019 through May.) is put on hold, worked when Francis Ouimet knocked off Harry Similarly, there were 10 million more rounds Vardon and Ted Ray in 1913, igniting the first played in July this year than in July last year. Some national craze for golf, but not now. The U.S. of those rounds were played by new golfers, is not something Open is difficult conditions under sweltering people who turned to the game because they heat and differing winds for long hours before couldn’t do anything else but walk the dog. large and – when in New York – rowdy crowds. The mini-boom might continue. If the weath- anyone wants This year’s delayed competition, while welcome er in fall is good, what traditionally is the most to have taken place at all, had the atmosphere enjoyable time of the year to play should be as of a member-guest without the Calcutta or popular as summer. The lack of college football to get used to. Saturday night party. in much of the midwest eliminates Saturday’s Topsy-turvy is something for fairy tales, not excuse to play the couch potato role, and if the reality. Next thing you know, Alice will climb Bears are what they usually are on Sunday, there’s out of a rabbit hole on the 14th hole and tell no reason not to tee it up then. us we’re 2-down. It certainly beats the silence. 30 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Fall 2020 31 READY FOR YOUR ARRIVAL Great golf happens on great courses. And courses don’t get better than the ones on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. With 11 locations, 26 courses and more than 400 championship holes, the toughest challenge may be deciding which one to play first. Download the new RTJ App and start planning your next trip to the Trail. Our golf courses and staff are ready to welcome you back to the legendary Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. FALL PACKAGES AVAILABLE » rtjgolf.com » 800.949.4444

RTJ1220ReadyYourArrival_GolfChicago.indd 1 9/17/20 4:06 PM