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2020

RTJ1213GreenerDays_GolfChicago.indd 1 6/8/20 11:41 AM Media sponsor of Dave Summer 2020 Vol. 24 No. 2 Opening Shot and contents Tim Features Once More, with (Distant) Feeling The Interview: Neil Funk As we were saying, here we go again! The retiring Bulls announcer is a golf nut, and that’s good Only centenarians had lived through a pandemic before. The rest of Visit our 18 Departments us had little clue what we were in for in spending day after day in quiet GOLFChicago 5 Opening Shot Streamsong Sings a Siren’s Song neighborhoods looking at quieter streets and dreaming of such mundane Florida’s finest inland resort offers 54 holes of sultry magic 6 The Good Stuff Magazine 22 delights as getting a haircut or shopping without a mask. Todd Mrowice Prowls the Aisles Or playing golf. Remember golf? Fan Page Not Your Father’s Club Fitting 10 Instruction It’s back. Foursomes included, though it’s still nix on high fives after a on facebook. Club Champion has become America’s top club-fitter 24 Matthew Nations birdie or pulling flagsticks. GOLFChicago is also back, with a passel of 12 Instruction features that we had at Harbor Shores Is More Than A Golf Course Anne Badamo-Connors on 26 From a brownfield comes a standout Nicklaus design Post-round Yoga the ready in the spring, but with nobody at 14 Sweet Home Chicago courses, no easy way to 16 Profiles Todd Mrowice on distribute. Schaumburg’s New Look We start with an 28 Video Village interview with Neil CBS is Bunkered, says Funk, whose 29 years as Tim Cronin the Bulls’ play-by-play 31 GOLFChicago Map man, first on radio and and Directory How to Get There more recently television, 37 On The Corkscrews included five of the six Stephen Hawk toasts championship years, and Tony Lombardi the endless rebuilding 38 Final Putt era that goes on even as Neil retires, and gets to spend more time than Neal Kotlarek on Golf in a Pandemic ever on the links. You’ll find Neil is very much one of us. Club Champion Want to get away? Who doesn’t after these months of isolation. One of the great spots to go is Streamsong, the multi-course facility in central Florida built on the remains of an old phosphate mine. We have a review SUBSCRIBE TO Chicago’s Premier Multimedia Golf Source & Authority of both the golf and the cuisine available there. GOLFCHICAGO Founder: Bill Daniels Editorial Inquiries Publisher: Dave Weretka Tim Cronin Need new clubs? The cover story on Club Champion, whose fitting [email protected] Editor: Tim Cronin Free Golf* with Your PO Box 541 centers have multiplied like rabbits in recent years, takes you through Paid Subscription Art Director: Stephen Hawk Worth, IL 60482 the process. Senior Writers: Neal Kotlarek and Advertising and Marketing Inquiries Instruction by Matthew Nations and yoga tips by Anne Badamo- Chicago’s Premier Todd Mrowice Dave Weretka Multimedia Golf Source [email protected] Connors will take the squeak out. Instructional Staff: Andy Mickelson, PO Box 9745 & Authority Delivered Andrew Ogata, and John Platt There are also a few thoughts on how most of us get the great major- To Your Door Naperville, IL 60564 815-741-8005 ity of our tournament golf – television, and how CBS bogeyed the start of Editorial Contributors: Stephen Hawk, Visit Rory Hughes, Dave Lockhart, Greg Martin, the season. www.GOLFChicagoMagazine.com and John Morrissett Finally, our Neal Kotlarek takes you on an introspective journey of for details Photography: GOLFChicago Staff golf in a pandemic – one you might well have made yourself.

© Copyright 2020 Welcome back. 4 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 5 Comfy Walking from Skechers THE GOOD STUFF Like golfing on the clouds, Skechers just knows Compiled by Todd Mrowice how to make golf shoes comfy and light. The new GO GOLF Elite V.4 has a waterproof leather upper with all new Grip Flex spikeless technology, so you never sacrifice traction. The low drop design keeps your foot stable and low to the ground, and the Goga Mat cushioned insole keeps your dogs from barking all the way to the 19th hole and beyond. Available in gray/lime, black/white, Mizuno and white/navy. Mizuno has always been $105 skechers.com known for producing unreal feeling Play Golf like an NHL All-Star irons. More recently, drivers and fairway metals. Now, Mizuno drops on the Hockey stick technology makes its way to golf with the GELSTX shaft powered by equipment world some amazing putters. Fujikura. This weighted shaft is the only swing trainer that works with your existing driver. The M Craft Type I is a square back/ At 2.5 times heavier than a standard shaft, simply pop your driver head on, swing mid slant for exaggerated putting arcs. away, and then pop it back onto your shaft. All main manufacturer adapters available. Forged from premium 1025 mild carbon Encourages consistent tempo and produces increased club head/ball speed. steel and then CNC milled to perfection. $149.99 and up gelstx.com Also available in Type II (classic plumber’s neck design) and Type III (mid- Wilson’s D7 Line Expands A Walker’s Bag Unlike mallet) models. All available in blue ion, black ion, and white satin finishes. Chicago’s own, Wilson, comes out Any Other strong in 2020 with the D7 Forged irons. Sun Mountain has a knack for $300 mizunousa.com Complementing the immensely popular producing some of the best golf bags D7 irons, the forged version is for the on the market. The 2.5+ 14-Way carry slightly better player. Tour-level distance bag is not only spacious, it has features and feel paired with Power Hole and on top of features. Weighing just under Power Chamber technologies make these four pounds, this bag gets its namesake A Rangefinder sticks long and forgiving. Ideal for those from the 14 full-length individual club for Everyone that want a thinner top line without going dividers. The X-Strap System is ideal Precision Pro is known for rangefinders that to blades. Standard shafts are KBS Taper for walkers, as is the beverage are as good as the competition, but much more Lite (steel) and True Temper Catalyst 80 pouch and full-length apparel wallet friendly. The NX9 Slope is new for 2020 and (graphite). pocket. Available in six has adaptive slope technology in addition to pulse $899.99 (4-PW steel) wilson.com colors! technology and a 400-yard range. Water-resistant, $239.99 shock-proof design, at a shock-proof price. sunmountain.com $269.99 precisionprogolf.com

Another way to get an Edge TourEdge touts the Exotics EXS 220 fairway club, lighter than its previous iteration, as the best for the price on the market. “Talk about a ‘wow’ factor!” said TourEdge founder David Glod. “Just a couple swings with the EXS 220 will prove why we are an industry leader in fairway metals.” The weight change allows for easier launch off the fairway, combined with lower spin. It’s available in five lofts, from 13.5 degrees to 21 degrees, the head size decreasing as the loft increases. All the usual shaft flexes are available. $249.99 www.touredge.com 6 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 7 THE GOOD STUFF Compiled by Todd Mrowice A Push Cart That’s Not Pushy Say “goodbye” to heavy push carts that never seem to cooperate when opening and closing. The Nitron from Bag Boy is the fastest opening push cart out there. With Nitro- Piston Technology, this cart opens in one easy step. When folded down its compact design fits into any trunk for easy transport. Top-Lok Technology keeps your bag securely fastened on the course, while utilizing the Be like Rickie convenient scorecard console, extra-large For the younger lads that accessory bag, and handle mounted brake. resemble Rickie Fowler, $259.95 bagboy.com or the older gents that just want to be Rickie Fowler, at least you can dress like him! PUMA has a new line of CLOUDSPUN clothing that feels better than anything you currently own. This Taylor Clean your Grooves Properly Golf Polo is designed for fashion-conscience We’ve all experienced a ball washer that is out of H2O. players, featuring a Very frustrating. So stop spitting on your towel and grab Chew This Over colorblock pattern. The ultra-soft feel keeps you comfy and yourself a Grooveit. The wet club cleaner was a hit at the dry well beyond your round. Available in six colorways. Just when you think you’ve seen it all PGA Merchandise Show and deserves a place in your $70 cobrapumagolf.com in decorative head covers – the Tiger bag. Patented pump action sprays water or your choice of head, the Pink Panther, every sport cleaning solution onto the face. Detachable magnets keep team logo in captivity – along comes the brush securely fastened, and an ergonomic-designed Daphne’s Headcovers of Phoenix with pistol grip is strong and durable. a driver cover that resembles a taco, $19.99 grooveitbrush.com complete with guacamole oozing from the sides. It’s no small-size taco, either. This novelty fits a 460cc driver, keeping it safe from scratches, but not from dogs with no sense of smell. And there’s room for your name if you so desire. $33.99 ($7.99 extra for embroidery) daphnesheadcovers.com

A Wallet for the Techie Age A Proper Cold Shoulder The hunt for the perfect wallet ends here. Get back out there this summer with Your New Top Gun The Ridge is not only sleek, it’s practical and confidence. No need to fear harmful sun protective. This wallet holds up to 12 cards MAVRIK drivers from Callaway are rays with SParms Shoulder Wrap and blocks RFID (wireless theft) to boot. A making their mark. The new Cyclone Aero Sleeves money clip option is available to those that like headshape produces faster ball speeds . They offer UPF 50+ sun protection and a more traditional look, while a cash strap is across a larger face that offers FS2S titanium. are made of Italian Micro Meryl fibers also available and is slightly slimmer. Available This lighter face accounts for a tighter dispersion and Spandex. Comfortable, cool, and in aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber with a and max forgiveness on off-center hits. Its game- stylish. No more pinching on your arms or variety of finishes in each model. changing Jailbreak internal technology and a new sagging at the wrist. So comfortable you’ll $75 - $125 ridgewallet.com lighter carbon crown will land your drives in places forget you’re wearing them. that leave you shaking your head. We can attest to $34.99 - $39.99 that, and have even left mouths agape. sparmsamerica.com $499.99 callawaygolf.com 8 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 9 INSTRUCTION Ready? Golf! Matthew Nations TEN COURSES.THREE RESORTS. ONE AWARD-WINNING DESTINATION. ecently I took some time to think players. However, they do contribute to question the easiest way to solve some of Rabout why we all feel “golf is too slow,” the over-socializing aspect of golf that golf’s biggest issues: Just be ready to hit and then pondered, is it too hard? Does can sometimes distract players from their when you get to your next shot. it require too many practice swings? Do ultimate intent while on the golf course: Compare it to any other sport. Imagine you feel like there are too many holes? to golf. standing on a field during a game and talking All right, so the point is that there are As we venture into the months ahead, on your phone while the game is playing a lot of reasons golf can take so long, and we need to evolve the social distancing around you. Playing golf is so much more although we can help with most, we can’t guideline into thinking about how we can than just a golf swing. It’s quite literally help with all of them. distance ourselves from social distraction. every moment before and after the golf However, that hasn’t stopped our Slow play. A result of players not swing too. Every time you take more than friends at the USGA from trying. being ready to hit their shot when they a minute to stop and answer a text, you The USGA implemented new rules need to. disrupt the momentum of your own play. 2019 NATIONAL (options) last year regarding the removal Slow play does not guarantee high Golf isn’t a game you master. It’s a GOLF COURSE OF THE YEAR of the flagstick from the cup in an effort to scores but high scores almost always come game you have to continuously work at. The Heather help improve playability and ease pacing from slow play. We’re all familiar with what Your time on a golf course is a series of concerns. Now, COVID-19 has taken away Ready Golf means and one of the most routines that, if executed properly, produce the option and mandated all flag sticks common pace-related questions busy frequent applications of extreme focus in BEST GOLF RESORTS must remain in the cup. clubs get are in regards to pace of play. order to execute a brief one or two second IN AMERICA COVID-19 has also created even more So why couldn’t Ready Golf be a rule that motion. Those routines have very little to BOYNE Golf guidelines to improve pacing – er, safety: could be enforced on courses? do with the actual swing. Spend more time Social Distancing. You may have There will always be circumstances that focusing on the moments leading up to — Forbes.com — heard of it. call for the player that’s farthest away to go and after the swing, and your enjoyment In a sport that was designed to allow next, which is often the right thing to do, and success on the course will be limitless. players to escape into a serene landscape but not always. There is a time and place So, let’s be Ready! And Golf! Because 100 GREATEST and forget about their daily grind, it has for everything (and there is plenty of time when you love the game, you should spend PUBLIC COURSES evolved dramatically into a mixed bag of to socialize while playing golf) but when more time playing it! The Heather #92, Links/Quarry #80 hover boards, Bluetooth speakers, and players don’t always follow reasonable A helpful golf instruction from your beverage cart service. Individually, there’s pace of play standards in our game, they PGA Professional, without a swing tip. — — nothing wrong with these things. They often lead to an afternoon of that iconic are welcome additions to the culture and hands-on-hip pose for the 4, 8, 20, 50, 100- Matthew Nations is a PGA Head Professional effective at attracting new generations of plus players behind them. This is without at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton. EDITOR’S CHOICE BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor

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10 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 11 INSTRUCTION The New 19th Hole: Anne badamo-connors Post-round Stretching!

ost golfers know the importance of the round, so they will be more supple When performing them, make sure Ma dynamic warm-up. A pre-round and agreeable to a stretching routine. you hold your core muscles in and do not stretch increases core temperature, warms The following stretches will help ensure forget to breathe. Hold all stretches for up the joints, and increases flexibility. joint functionality and mobility, meaning 30 seconds. You can repeat two or three Between muscles and bones there you will feel better and look forward to times. Be kind to your body and make sure are critical connections that make our golf your next round of golf. you stretch before you cool down! swings possible, and they need all the care we can give them. The golf swing is a very athletic move- ment that starts from a static position and creates an explosive move in under two seconds! Throughout a regular round, golfers make extensive use of their muscles and joints. To prevent muscle soreness and help you recover for your next round of golf, you must stretch your body after you play. A post-round stretch is a time for your mind and body to relax and return to a calm resting state. The most common complaint of a golfer at the end of their game is often low-back stiffness. Several muscle groups For a deeper stretch, try this floor version: kneel down into a lunge position with your can contribute and be the culprit, includ- hips and knees bent at 90 degrees. Contract ing glutes, hip flexors, hamstrings, and Hip Flexor Stretch: standing, lunge left your glutes so your pelvis is tilted beneath quadriceps. foot forward and bend your knee. With you slightly. Push your hips forward, but do chest high, straighten rear leg by pushing not lean backwards into your spine. You The best time to stretch after a round hips forward. Reach your arm toward the should feel a stretch in the front of the hip of golf is immediately after you get off the sky. Hold for 30 seconds, and repeat with and down the quad. Hold 60 seconds, and course. Your muscles are still warm from opposite side. repeat other side.

Standing Back Stretch: stand with feet apart, a little wider than golf posture at address. Place both hands just above your knees. Quad Stretch: stand on right leg and hold Glut Stretch: stand on right leg, holding on Turn just your torso to the right and look at a stationery object. Grab your left foot with to a stationary object, cross opposite foot your right foot as you press your knees back your hand and pull towards butt. Be sure over knee and gently sit as if sitting in a and press your left shoulder forward. Hold to lift your chest up and keep your hips chair. Lengthen spine and reach arm up over 20 seconds and repeat on the other side. forward. Hold for 30 seconds, then repeat head. Breathe, hold 30 seconds, and repeat Do several reps. on the other side. other side.

12 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 13 Locally, the BMW Championship at Olympia Fields was College Seasons Go Unfulfilled moved back a week, to Aug. 27-30, sliding in the week after It’s been a bizarre season for everyone, the 500 and the week before the Kentucky Derby. but perhaps most bizarre for college (We told you this was crazy.) players. The spring season stopped We’ll have a PGA in August, a U.S. Open in September almost before it started. and the Masters in mid-November, just in time for the col- take Chicago State, for instance. Sweet ors to change at Augusta National – assuming that sort of The often-overlooked Division I thing is allowed within the haughty confines. And the U.S. school in the city took fourth place Women’s Open will land on our television screens like an early at Alabama State’s tournament, and Christmas present, finishing on Dec. 13. was set to play tournaments at Prairie Home if someone wins all three, that would be the Triple Crown, View and Butler in March, and never there being no Grand Slam possible this year. Fie on anyone got there. First-year men’s coach Mark The Bluffs is unlike any other course in the who dares to complain. Haines – the Lincoln Oaks owner who area. Designed by noted architect Dick As for being allowed to play in Illinois, we were until coached Governors State for four March 21, were again from March 24 to 26, and then not until years – had to tell his players the sea- Nugent, The Bluffs provides a challenging Chicago May 1, first walking and no more than a twosome, and finally son was over. So did women’s coach and enjoyable space for golfers to foursomes with individual carts on May 29, followed by out- Angela Rayhill. door dining and two to a cart on June 28. It’s a start. Marty Schiene had to do the same reconnect with nature and their golf game! Maybe someday we’ll be trusted to use the on-course at DePaul. Schiene’s squad, who took Masters of a Golf Domain restroom. second in the Big East last year, never 18 hole Certified Audubon Sanctuary It’s one thing to be a PGA Professional. There are about got a chance to improve on that finish. Par 72 3 lakes, wetlands, and 36,000 scattered about the country. A Century of Golf in Highland Park Likewise, perennial Big Ten cham- to be a PGA Master Professional? That’s rare air, and It was 1919 that Highland Park bought 120 acres of farmland pion Illinois will have to wait a year to 5 Tee Yardages mature trees recently Vince Juarez of Deerpath Golf Course and T.J. Sullivan on the edge of town for a municipal golf course. By 1922, play- grab a sixth straight conference title of Golftec’s Oak Brook office made the grade, joining just over er-architect Stewart Gardner’s first nine holes of what today is and 11th in 12 years. Mike Small’s 400 others who have earned the distinction since 1969. known as Sunset Valley Golf Club were ready to open. team scattered when classes went Juarez earned his masters in general management, while naturally, the centennial of the course, which expanded to online and seasons for every team, Sullivan scored his in teaching and coaching. 18 holes in the 1920s, is being celebrated this year. from golf to baseball, were canceled. Fittingly, Juarez is the general manager at Deerpath, and there’s much to celebrate, whatever the year, thanks to Their streak is intact, but on hold until (815) 467-7888 HeritageBluffs.com thus puts his knowledge into practice every day, one reason the $7 million rebuild conducted by Rick Jacobson in 2017-18. 2021 – we hope. why the Lake Forest municipal course enjoys a vaunted reputa- The reopened course was properly hailed as a layout that tion. He also shares his knowledge with his fellow pros. was both fun and challenging, and environmentally sensitive “I would like to continue to mentor and inspire other PGA as well. The operation was in the black in 2019, confirming Two Irreplaceables Leave Us the cost, start to finish? At least $16 The teacher members who wish to further their career through advanced the decision of the town’s park district to shutter Highland Park Jim McWethy and Peter Longo had million. and trick-shot PGA certifications,” Juarez said. Golf Course and keep Sunset Valley, at the prodding of Illinois different orbits in the world of golf, the benefit? Mistwood became a artist taught Sullivan is one of the area’s go-to guys for learning the Golf Hall of Famer Joel Hirsch, rather than close Sunset Valley but they shared something that made destination for playing golf, for learn- many and game, honored as such within Illinois by Golf Digest in 2018- and keep Highland Park open. them stand out: a passion for the ing how to play better, and for dining. gave countless 19, and by Golftec for six years. game. Jim McWethy put Mistwood on the others a laugh “To be in the same group as the other Master For McWethy, map. along with a Professionals is a huge honor, as I’ve learned a tremendous first class was his death on June 22 at 76 is not lesson during amount about golf, the golf swing, and myself through the the only way to only crushing for his family, it creates a show. process,” Sullivan said. go. a void in Chicago’s golf landscape. the PGA Life member taught that’s why, McWethy was one of the few to see the at White Pines in Bensenville, but Back to Play – and Business when he took future of the game, and then shell out that was just the start. He created Time was – all the way back to last December – that you could sole control of real money to create that future. a teaching program for disabled write the following year’s schedule in ink and not give most Mistwood Golf A friend to many in the game, veterans, then added a teaching of it a second thought. Masters in April? Check. U.S. Open in Club in 2003, golf was only a sideline for him. He video as well. He was a long-time June? Check. British Open in July? Check? the first thing on his mind was replac- expanded a family business, then sold staple of Sergio Garcia’s clinics in the PGA jumped into May last year, but otherwise, golf’s ing the clubhouse, a crazy-quilt it and expanded into things as diverse Spain. calendar was as immutable as the four seasons. structure that looked like it was con- as software and a blueberry farm. A he was also a television sta- not this year. One pandemic scattered tournaments demned while under construction. car buff, he had a collection of classics ple, appearing for over 20 years about the calendar like a bowling ball crashing into pins. The Don’t let the “golf club” portion of the name fool you. it would have to go. that few knew about. A golf buff, he on WGN-TV’s sportscasts with British Open was bounced out entirely, and locally, the CDGA Sunset Valley is open to all, and welcoming. There’s a loyalty But for McWethy, improving belonged to Chicago Golf Club, but golf nut Dan Roan, giving advice Championship and Illinois Amateur befell the same fate. It also program with benefits for regular players, and the park district the golf experience came first. He spent more time at Mistwood, where while using an unending array of became apparent to tournament director is thinking a generation ahead, planning, once the pandemic brought back course designer Ray his attention to detail was evident. equipment that couldn’t be found Clair Peterson there was no way TPC Deere Run could host is over, a Youth Golf Development and Short Game Center. Hearn for a major renovation, built a he leaves wife Susan, grown chil- on any store’s shelf. He added the Deere, if only because there was no way the smallish club- Hirsch, one of Illinois’ greatest amateurs, is behind that as well, top-rank teaching building to house dren Todd and Gretchen, and more mirth to a game too often too house could take care of the players. He pulled the plug on saying the center will provide “an opportunity to learn and his staff, and only then knocked friends than can be counted. serious. The story of Peter Longo, 2020 and the attendant 50th anniversary celebrations, push- love the game and enjoy the lifelong benefits only golf can down the old clubhouse and built a the story of Peter Longo, who died who died May 28 at 75, goes ing everything back to 2021. It’ll still be 50 years after the first provide right here at our hometown golf course.” sumptuous new one. on May 28, goes around the world. around the world. playing, so cake will be in order. For more information, see www.sunsetvalleygolfclub.org. 14 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 15 profiles Schaumburg Puts on a New Face Todd Mrowice LIVING & PLAYING IN CHICAGO JUST GOT BETTER Schaumburg Golf Club is nearing completion where the true challenges are.” Parsons is course on everyone’s “must play” list for of a project that broke ground in 2017 and confident that all of the enhancements will many years ahead. has kept the attention of Chicago-area significantly improve the William Langford golfers ever since. The course enhance- and Theodore Moreau-designed course. If You Go ment plan, when all is said and done, will Prior to the project, Schaumburg Golf Schaumburg Golf Club encompass all 27 holes in addition to the Club was already one of the highest rated 401 N. Roselle Road practice facilities and Academy teaching public courses in the area. The improve- (847) 885-9000 center. At $7 million, it is also the first time ments that were made should keep this www.schaumburggolf.com real structural change has been made to the course since the Schaumburg Park District purchased it 30 years ago. After completion of the Players and Baer nine-hole courses the past two seasons, 2020 is the year for the Tournament course. visiting Slated to be ready at the end of July or INTRODUCING early August, the Tournament course was chicago? inside Chicago online the most requested side to be played, said Jonathan Parsons, Schaumburg’s general manager of golf operations. “Consistency Access exclusive FREE money-saving offers for top notch dining, upscale salons and spas, between all 27 holes was something we home services and more by visiting www.insidechicago.online really wanted to accomplish when we started this project, and from my eyes I think we’ve accomplished that and I think people will notice it,” Parsons said. “We tried to be really smart in our plan of attack and now “Pure Golf at its Finest” the course will challenge better players, but still be fair for higher handicaps. Plus, now when we have qualifier tournaments we can really make it a test.” If you’ve been out to play the revamped Players or Baer courses, you’ll know the significant changes that were made by renovation architect Todd Quitno to approach areas around the greens, as well as the bright white bunkers. Those are “Billy Bunkers,” which means they actually have a geo-textile liner at the bottom which (847) 740-4890 keeps the bunkers from flooding, and Located 1 mile east of allows them to play consistently. This will Volo on Highway 60 also continue to the Tournament course. (1 mile west of With any golf course work being Fairfiled Road / done these days, length is the hot topic. ½ mile east of Route 12) With equipment and golf balls producing unbelievable numbers, many courses find adding length is the answer to combating the lack of challenge. “Length was, of • Host to US Open Sectional Qualifier (final stage) course, part of the conversation, but we • Home of Illinois PGA Sectional Championship chose to get much more creative with our (on rotation with Medina and Olympia Fields) bunker play, especially on tee shots,” said www.stonewallorchard.com “One of Chicago’s top public courses you can play”—Golf Digest Parsons. “The different angles players are going to see going into greens, plus the “One of America’s best public courses”—Zagat Guide to Golf areas and hazards around greens will be 16 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 17 The GOLFChicago Interview

In a time of crisis, you never know where a small source of inspiration or happiness will

come from. For Neil Funk, who found himself,

like most Illinoisans back in late March,

sheltering at home – it was holding his trusted

MLA putter that brought a smile to his face,

pondering whether his 44-year career as an

NBA broadcaster was over. April 11 was supposed to be when the Bulls Neil Funk announcer of 29 years was to be honored

after announcing his retirement at the start by Dave Silbar

of the season. Whether it was “Jordan at the

buzzer,” “Paxson for three,” or his signature Photo: Bill Smith /

“kaboom,” Neil Funk was there to witness “Once I saw the virus had reached the U.S., I thought we with golf around the age of 10. A basketball, baseball, and were probably going to end up playing a handful of games football player in high school, it was at age 13 when Neil every moment since the fall of 1991. without fans,” Funk recalled. “But once Rudy Gobert (of the really got into golf. Utah Jazz) tested positive we knew that there was no way we The game would take a backseat to basketball, though, could continue and that the season would be in jeopardy.” during his playing days at Syracuse University – a season’s Instead, he would spend the evening And in the blink of an eye came an end to a storied career worth – in the late 1960s. “It was a completely different of announcing games in the NBA that began back in 1976. culture back then. We had a lot on our minds at the time at home with his wife of 50 years, Renee, “I was hopeful the season would continue because it’s my but having fun was always No. 1,” he laughed. last year, but once it was suspended you had the feeling that After landing a job at WITY, a small radio station in hunkered down due to the COVID-19 this crisis was going to be much worse than anybody first downstate Danville that broadcast roughly 250 sporting thought here in the U.S. and that’s exactly what happened,” events a year, Funk honed his craft by handling play-by-play pandemic. he said. duties for University of Illinois basketball and football, along A native of Indianapolis, Funk’s dad got him started with local minor league baseball and high school games. 18 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 19 Jordan. He also knows that it was only extenuating circumstances that brought Jordan back to the court for three more championships. “You’re always going to wonder if they haven’t had the MLB lockout, would Michael have stayed with baseball?” he said. “He had a good chance after that particular year of Discover the game the lockout, but we’ll never know. Master your skills As competitive as he was, you think Enjoy the serenity Michael would have found a way to succeed with the White Sox.” And as far as that signature line that CANTIGNY has made Funk’s voice a familiar one to Chicago Bulls fans young and old, he revealed: “It came from a guy in a bar GOLF in Syracuse who would parody play by play calls. He would pretend there were 10 seconds left in a game and it would Photo: Bill Smith / Chicago Bulls always end with “kaboom.” Years later I was doing a game for the University His first big break came in 1976 and R&A officials traveling down tees. And it’s been a Godsend.” of Illinois and Nick Weatherspoon hit a when he landed a job in Philadelphia during Masters week. “Golf is supposed to be fun, but it’s shot and it just came out.” working for a 76ers team that was led Designed by the great Alister not a lot of fun when you are playing a A scholar of the game of basketball, by Julius Erving, and advanced to that MacKenzie, Palmetto is one of the medium length par 4 and hitting driver you get the feeling that although his year’s NBA Finals where they would oldest clubs in America. Founded – fairway wood trying to get home. broadcasting career has come to an lose to the Portland Trailblazers. in 1892, it’s located about 20 miles That’s the biggest difference. I finally abrupt end, Neil Funk will have no Following a brief stint with the northeast of Augusta in Aiken, and got the message that if you want to have problem adjusting to life after the Kansas City Kings which included opens one week a year to non-members. fun you’ve got to move up and play the NBA, especially when he’s back in a visit to the Eastern Conference “It’s pure golf, no tennis, no pool,” right tees, no matter who you are.” South Carolina. Let’s just hope that his Finals, Funk found himself back Funk explained. “It’s the kind of What’s in his bag these days? Well, first birdie post retirement is followed in Philadelphia in 1982 and was course you can play 200 days in a row that’s always a loaded question. “I’m by a hearty “Kaboom!” Where one great course leads to another along for the ride as the 76ers beat and never get tired of. Like Augusta a diehard club junkie,” he laughed. the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA National, it’s fairly wide open with “I change wedges like people brush Finals. While in Philly, Funk worked a lot of rough. Palmetto’s secret to their teeth. Wedges, putters, drivers, Neil Funk Stat Sheet alongside , Doug Collins, longevity is the unbelievable green I always try to get the latest and and Steve Mix. complexes. You can play a hole 100 greatest. I mean, I’ll find stuff on What’s In The Bag Funk found himself working for the times and depending where you are Japanese websites that they don’t even Driver: TS1 Bulls in 1991 after longtime friend on your approach, it can look different sell here in the U.S.” Fairway wood: Tour Edge Exotics EX9 Jim Durham announced that he was every time you play.” And while his bag is a revolving Hybrid: 25-degree leaving his position as broadcaster for A current 9-handicap, Funk, 73, door of weapons, his go-to putter is the Irons: Miura Genesis Irons (6-pw) It’s close to home... And, with 13 incredible courses at the team. seems relegated to the fact that he’ll Swiss-made MLA. “I’m holding it right Wedges: Vokey (58), Cobra King MIM one unforgettable destination, it’s a golfing experience And the rest is history, with Funk probably never see his handicap now which makes me feel good,” he (54), Cleveland CBX (50) you’ll treasure. You’ll spend less time traveling and more calling the last five of the six NBA reach the lowest it’s ever been [4]. said. “I’ve had it for about seven years, Putter: MLA time doing what you love to do... Playing tons of golf. titles in the Bulls’ big run. “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned [my and while I usually go through five or Dream Foursome Come PLAY and STAY with us. Book your Golf Trail During the short offseason, Neil handicap] is not going down anymore. six putters during any given season, I Arnold Palmer, , Ben Getaway today. Visit GolfAtLakeOfTheOzarks.com. and Renee reside in South Carolina, When I hit 70 that was pretty much always seem to go back to the MLA.” Hogan where Neil has been a member of it. Two years ago, I started playing Having center stage to arguably the historic Palmetto Golf Club since from the senior tees because I greatest NBA player in history, Funk Favorite Chicago Courses 1993. The course is a favorite of realized if I want to keep having fun has played golf in front and in back of, River Forest C.C., Shoreacres, Chicago corporate chieftains and USGA, PGA, I would need to move up to the right but surprisingly never with, Michael Golf Club 20 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 21 The Taco Stand

tand atop the elevated first tee of Pacific Dunes in 2001, Lost Dunes Golf Club in Bridgman, Mich., in 1999, and Cape the Blue Course at central Florida’s Kidnappers Golf Resort in 2004. Once awarded the contracts, the two design firms were SStreamsong Resort and stare out at given free rein to pick and choose the landscapes they would develop. Among the options the horizon. Look to your left, then over were uplands-prairie areas, forested regions, and sand dunes. Not surprisingly, both chose to your right. Next, gaze straight down the dunes lands. Coore/Crenshaw’s course would become known as the Red and the middle. Sand dunes stretch across Doak’s course would be the Blue. the landscape in between emerald green While both the Red and the Blue courses were built over sand and Streamsong fairways, rugged sand fields, and patches have Bermuda grass fairways and greens, each has a distinctive look and of wild grass. You can’t help but won- feel. Streamsong Director of Golf Scott Wilson stated that this contrast der aloud, in unison with the rest of is one of the resort’s great strengths. your foursome, “Where the heck is “The courses are built on land with unique characteristics. I think that’s the ocean?” what makes Streamsong such a special place,” Wilson said. Putting surfaces on Sings a Siren’s While geologists trace the origins the Red course are flatter, longer and gentler. Its bunkers, though large of Streamsong’s sands to the last ice and dramatic, are not nearly as vast as those on the sister course. The The Tin Can age, the fascinating topography of bunkers on the Red course are also pulled back away from the greens, this vast resort near Bowling Green which allows for easier access to the flagsticks. As all of Streamsong’s Song is in fact the result of a huge phos- courses are walking-preferred (carts are available for late morning and phate fertilizer mining operation afternoon rounds), and caddies are highly recommended. Most have executed throughout much of lots of experience navigating the tricky greens and offer insights and the last century. The extraction stories about the property’s intriguing history. By Neal Kotlarek process requires the separation The first hole on the Red course provides players an excellent of the phosphate from soil and indication of the many challenges they will confront during their entire sand. Once the extraction was stay at the resort. Rolling hills, sweeping sand dunes, a vast waste area, completed, over 15 million cubic and crossing fairway bunkers all reside in front of the tee. As if on cue, yards of sand was returned to our foursome’s walk to the first fairway was interrupted by an alligator the land and then dispersed. lumbering toward a pond on the left side of the hole. My colleagues tried Red No. 6 / Photo: Larry Lambrecht Blue No. 7 / Photo: Streamsong Resort/Nile Young The project was completed sometime in to convince me it was an animatronic reptile who sings “Don’t Worry, the 1960s, and the land was essentially Be Happy” when you pressed his snout. But I wasn’t buying that story. returned to nature. And as one decade Not at all. led to another and yet another, dunes The highlight of the front nine is the amazing 147-yard No. 8. The and all sorts of fascinating landscapes green measures over 62 yards deep but is less than 10 yards wide when formed over a wide swath of the 16,000- playing from one of the tees that offer a left to right angle to the flagstick. acre property owned by The Mosaic So miss short or long and you’re pretty much assured that you’re putting Company. Richard Mack, executive for birdie. Miss right or left and you’ll probably be hitting out of a deep vice-president of the enterprise, pitched bunker. After completing the hole, tee off on the short No. 9 and then head a unique repurposing of the dormant to The Shack just to the right of the tee. An authentic barbecue pit serves estate to the corporate board. His vision up slow-smoked pulled pork sandwiches and other delicacies. Food, as it was a golf resort that served up similar turns out, is an important theme of the entire Streamsong experience with bucket-list experiences to those offered a unique and tasty cuisine offered at halfway houses on each course. at renowned destinations like Whistling The 16th on the Red course is often cited as the layout’s signature Straits, Pebble Beach, and Bandon Dunes. hole due to both its rugged good looks and its Biarritz-style Considering its rural location about an green which features a natural swale. Hit short hour’s drive southeast of Tampa, the concept on this 184-yarder and find yourself Black No. 5 / Photo: Larry Lambrecht seemed as unlikely as it was intriguing. in the towering bunker Once the wheels for the project were that stares down the golfer Black No. 5 / Photo: Larry Lambrecht put in motion, a wide array of golf architects from the tee. Hit left of were invited to visit the property. The logical the green and a depression choices for the first two courses were the duo of Bill Coore will funnel your ball away and Ben Crenshaw, and Tom Doak. They boasted impressive from the flagstick. resumes for transforming sand terrains into world-class golf Even though its first tee courses. Coore/Crenshaw’s portfolio includes Sand Hills is on the same grounds as its Golf Club in Mullen, Neb., in 1995 and Oregon’s Bandon sister layout, the Doak-designed Trails in 2005. Doak’s projects are highlighted by Oregon’s Blue course is markedly differ-

continued on page 29 Blie No 12 / Photo: Larry Lambrecht 22 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 23 So how does that apply to club fitting? The principle is the same: If your father’s version of a fitting found equipment that yielded better results, does that mean the Star Trek-level technology is just hype? Or does an innovative, modern version of Dad’s fitting really give you a competitive advantage? Sherburne’s brand is in the data-driven camp. Club Champion uses technology every step of the way, from TrackMan swing analysis during the club fitting, Science and Motion PuttLab to Not Your Father’s optimize the putter, to PUREing machines that orient each shaft optimally into each clubhead during the build process. The mentality is show-not-tell: Let the golfer see Club Fitting the improvement in real-time because the data doesn’t lie. By Cassandra Bausch “Think about it like this – you wouldn’t invest in a nice suit without trying it on and having it tailored,” says Sherburne. “You want to know how f you were to define a “golf club fitting,” your definition would it fits, is the material comfortable, is it likely vary from that of your playing partner, your father or even I high-quality. Then you want an expert the local pro you use for lessons. You may have been fitted at to take all the measurements and make your club a decade ago for your current set, while your playing the suit look and feel perfect for you. partner might swear by their futuristic swing analysis session Your investment in your golf game is no and new sticks purchased every three years. In an industry with different.” simultaneously so many innovations and so many traditions, it can The standard fitting practice be hard to know when modernization is truly the best option for of years past equates to trying on the your game. suit jacket, but gets nowhere near a Take , for example. Each year, tailored experience. Previously, a club manufacturers release a new model touting faster ball speeds, fitter might apply tape to your clubhead longer carries, and more accurate shots. From a marketing and have you hit off a lie angle board. perspective, this makes complete sense – brands want the They’d eyeball your swing and suggest consumer to believe their best golf can only be played with that a change in the stiffness of your shaft, model … even if they have the most recent predecessor in their or maybe a different grip. They may bag. But from a practical standpoint, is there evidence to support have had a swing-speed meter, but the claim that new equals better? that was the extent of technology’s role. “In short, the answer is yes,” said Nick Sherburne, This abbreviated approach is how you master fitter and founder of Club Champion, the nation’s No. end up with short sleeves on a suit and 1 custom club fitter. “We’re in a unique position since we see shorter drives on the course. every model from every brand. Independent club tests back the claims and so do our informal findings.” continued on page 30

24 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 25 n ways small and large, resort community complete with planned southwest Michigan’s Harbor housing, a luxury hotel, and a marina. Its Shores Resort is a miracle. Just name would be Harbor Shores. And the Harbor Shores Ias the gospel story celebrates aggressive construction plan called for the how Lazarus was raised from the course to be opened in 2010 and readied dead, the community of Benton for tournament play two years later. In total, Harbor worked with a local over $900 million was spent to transform is more than a appliance manufacturer along the property and its surroundings into a with state and federal regulators stunning and versatile resort. to resurrect a desperate parcel Today, a mere 20 years after the golf course of land to create a golf course, a funding was approved, the property bears real estate property and, most literally no resemblance to its former self. critically, a hopeful future. The massive clean-up effort included the Some 60 years ago, Benton demolition of three million square feet By Neal Kotlarek Harbor was a thriving industrial of dilapidated buildings. Portions of the city of 20,000 replete with Paw Paw River that border holes on the a fighter plane components back nine were cleaned up, with 140,000 manufacturer, a steel mill, a car tons of waste material removed from its battery recycling plant, and an banks and bottom. Contaminated soil automotive brakes producer. that topped the property was taken off Starting in the late 1960s, those the land and replaced. businesses started to lose The centerpiece of the property is ground and jobs to international a Jack Nicklaus Signature 18-hole cham- competition. Flash forward to pionship course that the Golden Bear the mid-1980s and the town previously declared was one of his proud- had quickly transformed into a est achievements as an architect. There virtual ghost town. Along with are plaques on each tee commemorating virtually every factory closing, Nicklaus’ 18 pro major titles. so too did the downtown shops A mere four years after funding was and businesses, which had few approved, the course hosted the 2012, people left to buy their goods 2014, 2016, and 2018 KitchenAid Senior and services. Tumbleweed PGA Championships. While the course had could be found rolling across been scheduled to host this year’s cham- the city’s streets after residents pionship again, the event was cancelled fled the run-down city, by then due to the pandemic, but is scheduled to plagued by violent crime and return in 2022 and in 2024. the drug trade. The Harbor Shores golf course serves Throughout all of this tumult, up a fascinating palette of environments. local appliance manufacturer Holes 1 through 6 traverse over inland ter- Whirlpool Corporation steadfastly rain. Then they give way to dunes terrain held its position to maintain its which feature breathtaking views of Lake national headquarters in the Michigan. Holes 10 to 13 climb through city. Indeed, even as Benton woodlands, while the dramatic finishing Harbor’s struggles made national holes encounter the Paw Paw River, Ox headlines, the company, whose Creek and wetlands. brand names would eventually Harbor Shores general manager Joshua include Maytag and KitchenAid, Doxtator called the job “an opportunity outlined plans to revitalize of a lifetime” after he took his position its home city. In May, 2008, in February, 2019. “Harbor Shores is not an elaborate financing deal just a golf course or a resort or a marina,” anchored by Whirlpool along he said in an on-course interview. “It is with a consortium of nonprofit the foundation of a community which development companies was went through a very difficult time and is closed. The deal involved state emerging as a place people want to visit and federal funds to clean up and live in and even open a business at.” a 530-acre site abutting Lake During the interview, Doxtator walked Michigan which would afterwards over to various spots around the course and be transformed into a golf course referenced their prior history. “There was

continued on page 36 26 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 27 Streamsong a two-acre 18-hole putting course located and somehow fooled myself twice that I continued from page 23 just outside the clubhouse. had achieved the goal. In fact, both shots Video Village ent in character. Most critically, wide-open With gigantic wide fairways framed landed well short of the green to set up CBS Lands in a Bunker fairways allow for players to rear back off by snaking sand bunkers and breathtaking heroic wedges out of the aforementioned Tim Cronin the tee and take advantage of the firm and vistas, the Black dares golfers to hit the bunker. “Take an extra club here to make fast fairways. Greens across the course are ball up the fast and firm fairways as far it over the bunkers,” Wilson stated. I just severely undulating as one would expect as possible, and then challenges them wish I had asked him before I began my from a Doak-designed course. In April, the to locate flagsticks placed in precarious round. grasses on both this course and the Coore/ spots on massive, rolling greens. Land Every aspect of Streamsong Resort elevising golf is hard, and everyone Macatee bounced from the commentat- analyze what happened, but, oops, he was Crenshaw track were being transferred to your approach too short or too long on was designed to provide the player with a Tknows why. Briefly, there’s more than ing crew and Davis Love III, Frank Nobilo let go, and Love, a fine fellow, isn’t about to a revolutionary new ultradwarf Bermuda any particular hole and be prepared to “bucket list” experience. The dining area of one ball in play at once, the ball is small, and Trevor Immelman coming in, even as say anything interesting. Alas, , the grass, which is purported to offer super calculate a putt with at least two or three the clubhouse on the Black course offers the play is conducted over hundreds of Barrow yielded to Shy. lead analyst, was also AWOL on the subject. fine texture and smoothness on greens. breaks involved. Your caddie will come in an almost 360-degree view of the club- acres, and most of the time, those who Thanks to the coronavirus, it’s become That was the tip of Capt. Barrow’s Known as “Mach 1,” the strain is renowned handy on virtually every shot. house and the Gaunlet putting course. The play are walking or standing, not playing. a truncation year, but even before the iceberg. Botched scoreboards and high- for being both heat and drought tolerant – My favorite aspect of the Black course clubhouse for the Red and Blue courses , whose directing style world of sports stopped spinning, CBS lights from other tours – things that can be a true asset given central Florida’s steamy is the wide variety of green sites across was designed by Alberto Alfonso and for CBS won raves for years, called the game was in a grand funk. Blimp shots of Pebble checked in advance – were glaring errors. summer conditions. both nines. Many are built atop mounds. features an outdoor terrace overlooking inherently dull, as far as television went. Beach aside, the broadcasts have lacked While Chirkinian also famously said, It makes a lot of sense that on such A few are tightly guarded by sand. A few a lake and the golf course. He livened it up by cutting from player to something crucial: quality. “We’re not doing journalism here,” he knew an unlikely place for a golf resort, the others are wide open. My favorite is the As referenced by the cuisine at the player, using close-ups of players reacting All the 100-1 zoom lenses and Trackman how to follow a story, whether it was a Jack Blue course’s signature seventh hole is intriguing ninth. Before teeing off, head halfway houses, food is a centerpiece to their shot, placed microphones on tees, toys in the world can’t hide a bad show. A Nicklaus charge or a player’s collapse. On atypical of any other hole at Streamsong. pro Wilson highly recommends that the attraction at the resort. In an interview, and adapted the over-under par scoring bad show is what CBS has too often provided Saturday, he’d cut from player to player, A photogenic pond rests between the tee player look at the magnetic board next Executive Chef Michael Ford said that system to live TV. He also told announcers this year. The nadir was reached during giving the viewer a feel for the course and and the huge, undulating green of this to the tee which indicates the day’s hole even in the resort’s developmental stag- to shut up. As a result, Chirkinian, as much the final round at Riviera, that cathedral the field. Stars received more time, espe- intimidating par 3. Bushes, wild grass, position. Rear up and hit your drive as far es, the board agreed that guests should as Bobby Jones or Clifford Roberts, made in a valley near Hollywood, where Bogie cially if they were leading. On Sunday, the and massive bunkers frame the putting up the fairway as possible here to set up expect premier eating experiences to go the Masters the Masters. once leaned on trees watching bogeys. cameras would focus in on the contenders. surface. The opportunity to make a par an approach to one of the most memo- along with golf experiences. “Our goal Chirkinian, who died in 2011, would Inexplicably, Barrow, Shy & Co. managed If someone made a few bogeys and fell here is basically a do-or-die proposition: rable greens you’ll ever play. Just over a is to match the great golf with fantastic wince if he watched CBS’ golf production to default on their duty when the leaders off the leader board, Chirkinian put him in Land on the green and you have a chance mound protecting the front of the green, food,” the chef said. He pointed out that these days. It is, to use a technical term, made the turn. Harold Varner III topped the witness protection program. He’d not for par or better. Miss the green and your the flagstick rests in a punch bowl. the barbeque offered is slow-cooked for a slog. his tee shot on the 10th hole. Viewers were be seen again unless he was in the final handicap rating might just spiral. In his “The windmill sitting behind the green 10 hours. The executive chefs performed The current production team, headed told about it by Ian Baker-Finch, never group, and then only on the 18th hole. Little Red Book of Golf Course Architecture, should be used as a guide to approximate seven taste-testings to agree on the by Lance Barrow – with Sellers Shy at his mind the many replay units available. The These days, the leader disappears. published in 2016, Doak referenced how the direction of your shot,” said Wilson. bacon prepared at the breakfast station. right hand and taking over at the end of key shot and the video was under house This isn’t how Barrow wanted to go out. he and his younger associates discussed, The windmill was found on the property “No burger across the property is alike,” the season – has all the gadgetry Chirkinian arrest for 90 minutes. Or maybe they had The good news is, the PGA and Masters more than once, the idea of putting in a zip as the course was built, and today serves Ford said. Each dining area has a slightly had, and then some, starting with high to take it to Fotomat for development. were shoved back several months, so line to get across the pond following this as the centerpoint of the green. Once the different spin on this clubhouse staple. definition. Shot-tracing and super-slow- The jackals on unsocial media howled, CBS ends up with the last two men’s very tee shot. The dream was scratched, ball disappears over the mound into the “Who wants the same burger day after motion swing analysis is instantly on tap. but this time, they were right. Varner’s mis- majors of the season. By late summer however, for multiple reasons: “1) Mosaic spacious punch-bowl green, the race is day?” the chef asked with a laugh. Along This was going to be a transition year, cue should have been replayed promptly. and early fall, perhaps CBS’ black eye is a very risk-averse company, and 2) There on to find out just how close or far you with great steaks at the Bone Valley Tavern with Peter Kostis, Gary McCord and Bill It would have been perfect for Kostis to will have healed. are alligators in that pond, which might be are from a birdie. While blind approach and amazing Italian food at Sottoterra a problem if anyone fell off the zip line.” shots aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, this hole (the finest braised pork shank anywhere), Nick Faldo and , together but apart. (CBS) Before heading to the 10th tee, make and its massive green complex will most the chef’s team avails its services to large a quick stop at the halfway house taco assuredly become a topic of conversation groups seeking unique custom dining. shack to enjoy barbequed fish or meat at the bar following your round. “After you A 216-room lodge offers elegant guest tacos. Made, of course, only with fresh hole out, spend a moment appreciating rooms and suites with views of surround- ingredients the Streamsong way. this rolling green from behind the hole,” ing lakes and wildlife habitat. The main My favorite hole on the back nine is Wilson recommends. clubhouse also features 12 guest rooms, No. 13, a short par 4 teeming with dunes, Enjoy a cold beverage and a lobster roll a hospitality room, and conference and sand bunkers, mounds, a pond, and wild at the Black’s halfway house, affectionately meeting spaces. grass. The only goal off the tee is to avoid known as the Tin Can. Then head out for By the time you complete your unfor- two ominous bunkers protecting both a final nine filled with memorable holes. gettable experiences along the sand dunes sides of the landing area. From there, just No matter how well you do over the first and sand bunkers of Streamsong Resort, a wedge or 9-iron will put you in position 17, your entire round’s fate could very well you’ll forget the Atlantic Ocean is about for a birdie. be sealed on No. 18, a par 5 that after a 89 miles away. After both the Red and Blue courses decent drive leaves the player with an were made with wide acclaim, Gil Hanse interesting conundrum: play at safe far If You Go was brought onto the scene to design left of the raised green to set up a deli- Streamsong Resort the Black course, which opened in 2018. cate approach, or bring out the 3-wood 1000 Streamsong Drive, Situated on land far removed from the or 5-wood to loft a daring second shot Bowling Green, Fla. 33834 other two courses, the Black has its own over wetlands and a huge bunker to give (888) 294-6322 clubhouse and practice facilities. Arrive yourself a shot at an eagle. I chose the www.streamsongresort.com early for your round to enjoy The Gauntlet, latter approach during both of my rounds, 54 holes: Red, Blue and Black 28 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 29 University Ridge GC Club Champion doesn’t even address the improvement – measuring parameters like club path, Shepherd's Shiloh Park Highway 173 continued from page 25 Crook GC GC GOLFChicago in control and overall accuracy found face angle and even swing direction. Highway 83 with a fitted set. The second radar system tracks the Directory Just as there are club tests to support Technology is key in those findings. ball flight from launch to landing. Ball Highway 12 manufacturer claims about new equip- TrackMan swing analysis, the gold stan- measurements include launch angle, Golf Facilities of Interest Highway 59 ment, there are studies confirming that dard of launch monitors, can be found spin rate, and draw/fade ball curvature. to Every Golfer data-driven fittings at Club Champion in every Club Champion fitting bay. It is Trackman’s Dual Radar Technology is a Highway 120 Make sure when Highway 134 Village do outperform the alternatives. A Golf the same system the PGA Tour uses to significant milestone in the evolution of Green GC you play a course Butterfield Digest study found that eight out of nine show a player’s ball flight on TV and to custom fitting. Stonewall Winchester from our directory Orchard GC The flat stick gets its own system, that you mention track statistics. Club Champion uses it Highway 31 custom-fit golfers lowered their scores Highway 176 Highway 176 Lake Bluff Highway 83 you saw it in the by as much as six strokes per round and to take precise club and ball measure- called Science and Motion PuttLab. This GC added an average of 21 yards off the tee. ments in a controlled environment. One ultrasound-based system analyzes 28 GOLFChicago Crystal Lake Rd Rawson Bridge Road Roberts Road Course Directory. Highway 12 Rand Road That same study found over 13 yards radar system tracks everything the club important parameters of a putting stroke Highway 22 Half Day Road extra distance with fitted irons. And that does before, during, and after impact and then displays the results in graphic Randall Road reports. Within seconds, SAM delivers Lake Cook Road

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Lemont Silver Woods GC Ask about our generous rain both an art and a science. Every level All information in this directory is Mistwood Lake CC GC Cicero provided by participating courses. 151st Street of golfer can see massive improvement 159th Street River Oaks check policy. GOLFChicago is not responsible or Lockport Street Highway 53

LaGrange Road Highway 45 GC Highway 59 with a club fitting when they’re willing liable for errors or incorrect information. Archer Avenue George Dunne Weber Road Highway 47 to embrace a modern fitting process Map © Copyright 2020 GOLFChicago National GC Restaurant & Bar Open for Lunch and Dinner Ravisloe Glenwoodie – even if it looks a little different than Magazine. All rights reserved. CC GC Gouger 183rd Street with Outdoor Patio it did back in the day.” Course Managers: For inclusion in this directory, or In short, this is not your father’s Flossmor club fitting, and thank goodness for to update your listing, pleaseHighway 52 call / Jefferson Street Open to the Public 815.741.8005 or email us at Lincoln Highway Highway 30 that. [email protected] Harlem Avenue / Highway 43 26W151 Butterfield Road | Wheaton, IL |630.653.5800 For more information about Club arrowheadgolfclub.org Champion, please call (888) 340-7820 or visit clubchampiongolf.com. Heritage Bluffs GC Balmoral 30 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Morris Summer 2020Woods CC 31 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 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. 32 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 33 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.” 34 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 35 Harbor Shores is also the most beautiful hole and the even a double bogey on this hole seems continued from page 27 most difficult. Starting from a tee perched like an acceptable result. On THE among wetlands, the dogleg right stretches The 493-yard No. 10 may be the CORKSCREWS Come and Listen to my Story debris everywhere across this development toward large bunkers on the right side of most memorable hole on the course only when the project started,” he said. “Today, the landing area, ready to catch any tee because of a single moment caught on Stephen Hawk people are lining up to live somewhere shot aimed for a shorter approach to the tape during the grand opening in 2010. ‘bout a Man Named Lombardi along the golf course fairways or close green. The tiny putting surface, 436 yards Playing in a foursome with Arnold Palmer, to the marina. I’m just very proud to be distant from the back tee, is located on Tom Watson and Johnny Miller, designer part of this story. In 2008, this land had an the top of a sand dune towering 25 feet Nicklaus proudly extolled the intricacies equalized value of $0. Today, only a little above the fairway. Hit short and watch of the hole’s 10,500 square-foot green. To ony Lombardi was born into a family story. Wine has over a decade later, the same property your approach go tumbling back down show off the green’s massive undulations, Tof small business owners, and grew always been a part has a taxable value of over $25 million.” the fairway. Hit long and you may find twists and turns, Nicklaus practice putted up in Sonoma County. His first job in of my family’s his- The seventh hole, the par-4 signature yourself playing Beach Blanket Bingo on from the front side of the green toward the wine business came in 1998 when he tory, starting from hole on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course the shores of Lake Michigan. Somehow, the hole on the other side after Miller joined the hospitality team at Clos Du Bois my great-grand- complained that the putt was an impos- Winery, located in Geyserville, California. father Nazzareno sible stroke. “Show me how to do it,” the From 2001 to 2013, Lombardi held Lombardi and his former U.S. Open champion challenged senior leadership positions in marketing, childhood friend the Golden Bear. public relations, and sales for such compa- Cesare Mondavi The thousands of spectators who nies as Allied Domecq Wines, Beam Wine and their story of surrounded the green for a glimpse of the Estates, J Vineyards & Winery, Ascentia coming to America superstar foursome were stunned as the putt Wine Estates, and Kosta Browne Winery. together in 1914.” somehow found the back of the cup from In partnership with his wife Christine, The winery is about 100 feet. “From the day it happened Lombardi founded Lombardi Wines in not open to the until right now,” PGA Professional Ross Smith 2013 with a barrel of Chardonnay and a public and does told PGA Magazine, “it’s by far the greatest barrel of Pinot Noir. He describes himself not have a tasting thing I’ve ever witnessed in golf.” as a storyteller/connector at heart, and room. The wines Enjoy a cold libation in the spacious loves to tell the unique and interesting are sold through and elegant clubhouse after the round. personal stories of Sonoma and Napa an allocated mailing Another option is a visit to The Livery wineries and winemakers, and connect list. This limited pro- Brew Pub located just off the golf course them and their wines to people across duction is by design, grounds on the front nine. (Your cart ride the country. As part of that effort, he as Lombardi wants to the next hole takes you right by, so feel was encouraged to take the leap of the winery to grow free to stop in.) Along with tasty micro- faith in creating his own label from his “organically.” Newly brews, a beer garden, and live music, the former employers Dan Kosta and Michael active members converted stable also serves up gourmet Browne. They told him, “We did it, so are first offered the [email protected] appetizers, pizza, and pub food. should you!” Appellation Series While Chicagoans can play Harbor Lombardi hired Cabell Coursey in and a small allocation of limited produc- 13.5%. Like all Lombardi selections, this Shores as a single-day road trip, accommo- 2015 to be his winemaker and viticulturist/ tion single vineyard designates. Consistent is a limited-production wine, with 240 dations are available at a 92-room luxury grower relations manager after he had ordering gains members access to a wider cases made. hotel that towers above the St. Joseph held those jobs for three years at Kosta selection of wines. 2018 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast $48 River. The Inn also features 14 suites, two Browne. Well traveled, he has made wines Lombardi actively participates in This wine was fermented in 100% French top-floor condominiums and a rooftop all over the world, including Burgundy, charity wine auctions across the country. oak barrels (25% new). It then saw 14 meeting space. New Zealand, Oregon, and California. He believes that connecting through wine months of aging in custom barrels. It “While Harbor Shores might be con- Coursey and Lombardi make small helps raise much-needed awareness and shows a very transparent ruby in the sidered the end of the next chapter of lots of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from funds for worthwhile causes. glass. The nose features aromas of rich Benton Harbor by some,” said Doxtator, vineyards in the Sonoma Coast AVA. 2018 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast $44 black cherry, currants, and a hint of “we think of it as only the start of a new However, the winery owns no acreage The fruit was sourced from the Sangiacomo marshmallow. On the palate there is book of the city. Take a stroll around the or vineyards itself. Rather, the Pinot family of growers (and winemakers) in a silky mouthfeel, with flavors of tart marina village and the riverwalk. Or take a Noir fruit is sourced from growers in Petaluma. Fermented in 100% French cherry, blackberry, and a bit of cocoa. ride into town and visit the various shops the greater Petaluma area, where the oak barrels, of which only 10% were The focused acidity is complemented by and restaurants that [have] opened up Lombardi family has been since 1947, new, this Chardonnay was aged for 14 delicate tannins. It all wraps up with a there in recent years. With continued and Lombardi himself has cultivated months in custom barrels sourced from medium-long finish. The ABV is 14.2%. growth and development, Benton Harbor many close relationships. He says, “I’m French cooperages. 300 cases made. is on track to become one of Michigan’s most proud of the interconnections I It is a very pale yellow, with aromas Although Oregon and Washington greatest renovation projects.” have with grower families that provide of melon and honeysuckle, and just a hint state are justifiably famous for their Just as Saint Lazarus rose to life after access to incredible fruit and that I can of vanilla. The dominant flavors are lemon Pinot Noirs, Lombardi’s selections prove four days of being put to rest, the mira- make a style of wine that I love to drink. and tangerine, backed up by peach. Not that with high-quality fruit and a skilled cle of Benton Harbor shows promise of The greatest satisfaction is seeing that surprisingly, with so little new oak during winemaker, Sonoma can do equally well. extending many decades into the future. enjoyment from people who try the wines fermentation, there is just a whisper of Much to the delight of city managers, area I love to make. I founded my winery to wood. The wine finishes with an ideal For more about Lombardi and many other businesses, and, of course, golfers. honor my Italian roots and immigration level of refreshing acidity. The ABV is wine reviews, be sure to visit winervana.com. 36 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 37 final putt Golf in the Time of COVID-19 Neal Kotlarek

few days before he died at 89, my dad sat up we emerge like cicadas from a time of darkness, A in his bed and began to talk. He complained doubt, and despair, we all need a vaccine made about his failing health. And he complained of some spiritual elevation, musical or otherwise. about the food at the senior-care facility where While some might find respite in reading a good he stayed. And he complained about the lighting book in the backyard, and while others might by his bed that was too dim to allow him to read. haul in a crawl full of blue gill from a rural lake, or When he finally finished complaining, he took a perhaps toss around some horseshoes at the local deep breath. park, golfers want to golf. To the unenlightened “So,” he said, “how’s your golf game?” around us, the game probably appears trivial, I’ve thought a lot about that last conversation time-consuming, and maybe even dangerous with my father over these past painful months given the possibility of contracting the virus from while the world has faught through the COVID- other golfers in our twosomes or foursomes, or 19 coronavirus. Like pretty much everyone else, I maybe even from someone else’s stray golf ball didn’t get very good sleep during these months. found in the woods. While golf was not Indeed, I don’t think I spent more than a moment I have no doubt that playing golf carries lost in thought without considering the potential with it some risk. Just as does grocery shopping, loss of my friends, family, or neighbors to this picking up carryout meals and visiting a clinic essential during terrible disease. As vicious as the illness is, I found for an unrelated issue. While the surest way of my heart breaking over the vision of anyone all to prevent the disease is total isolation, we being strapped to a ventilator at McCormick (hopefully) have chosen as a society to now move this dark period, forward with our lives while exhibiting proper Place all alone while they waited for their immune distancing strategies and limiting ourselves to systems to kick in – or not. Could there be any small social gatherings. just the thought more miserable way to die? The game of golf, fortunately, is a game made And that’s where my final discussion with for social distancers. Get within 10 feet of us as my dad comes in. Even as he knew that his time we swing and be prepared for a toothectomy. As of one day again on this Earth was coming to an end, he nobly for those times between swings, we have been transitioned the dialogue to talk about golf – not forewarned to keep to ourselves and to either his golf; not tournament golf, but my golf. I’m walk or rent individual golf cars. Not a big deal. enjoying the game pretty sure I told him that I was still desperately Even as these past months in home quarantine clinging to a single-digit handicap but was hold- have been painful, many of us have found that the ing hope out that with a new driver and some extra time with family has tightened bonds and with family, friends, inspiring swing thoughts, I had great ambitions reminded us of our good fortune to have others for the coming season. And I’m pretty sure he to engage us, support us, and love us. My first few accepted that answer with a knowing smile and rounds of golf this season were shared with my and colleagues was a nod. older son in between hours I spent on the tennis Eugene loved to play the game. Both he and court with my younger one. Somehow, someway, Mom got me hooked on it when I was 9. Until we have along with my wife made it through the enough to endure. he was in his early 80s and struggling with bad throes of the worst pandemic in recent history knees, my dad relished golf in an almost unholy and still have our health, our jobs, and even our manner. One night I entered his basement and wits about us. In short, we have survived. was shocked to discover he’d spent a significant While golf was not essential during this amount of time cleaning and polishing his golf dark period, just the thought of one day again shoes for his next day’s adventure. Who polish- enjoying the game with family, friends, and es their golf shoes? Even when he couldn’t get colleagues was enough to endure. And when through 18 holes on his own ball, Dad hooked that day comes when I am called upon to meet up with a group of fellow seniors for weekly the Great Superintendent in the Sky, I pray that scramble events. Golf was an integral part of his I have the grace and patience to gather my sons life – so integral that he wanted to talk about it around my hospital bed and, after complaining even when his time was near. about the food and the grouchy nurses, I take Sir Paul McCartney once said that the pur- a deep breath and ask each of them: “So, how’s pose of music was “to lift the spirits.” Now that your golf game?” 38 GOLFChicagoMagazine.com Summer 2020 39