Golfers on Golf Radio
the blog between the broadcasts . . . with news and notes from Rory Spears
Spears on Golf
THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW..WITH LEN ZIEHM DAY 3
BIG 3 LEN ZIEHM IN ORLANDO
BIG 3 PARTNER........Len Ziehm continued to make to the rounds at
the PGA merchandise show, for one final day. His report came to us
from outside the convention center, so pardon some windy noise
picked up by the phone during the interview. It does get better as
the interview progresses.
THE GOG BLOG...will have some thoughts on the show come Monday
during the Gog Blog Speaks Out Column, plus a few other tidbits and
tap-ins.
CLICK HERE..FOR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH LEN ZIEHM FROM
THE 2012 PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW..
Download | Duration: 00:09:10
59TH PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW RECAP WITH LEN ZIEHM
THE BIG 3 GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO
CRONIN-ZIEHM-SPEARS STEVENSON-SPEARS-MUNRO
BIG 3 PARTNER LEN ZIEHM IS ATTENDING THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW
IN ORLANDO FLORIDA.....
Ziehm's recap of the first two days via podcast is here.The
Golden Bear Jack Nicklaus was the keynote speaker for
the show on Thursday.
More later today at www.lenziehmongolf.com as well.
CLICK HERE FOR RORY'S PODCAST INTERVIEW WITH LEN ZIEHM
REGARDING DAY 1 AND 2 OF THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW IN
ORLANDO FLORIDA.
Download | Duration: 00:15:14
THE SEATTLE AREA'S SALISH CLIFFS..GOLF AND CASINO
SALISH CLIFFS, HOLE # 4 ON THE GOG BLOGS TRAVEL DESTINATION TOUR..
SALISH CLIFFS JUST OVER ONE HOUR FROM SEATTLE WASHINGTON,
(above: The par 4 15th hole-photo by Brian Oar)
There is a new member to the Seattle area golf scene and
Salish (Say-lish) Cliffs has already opened some eyes.
This 7,300 yard par 72 Gene Bates design has made an
immediate, impact earning several awards including a
Best New Casino Course from Golfweek Magazine. Not
bad for a course that just celebrated it's "Grand Opening
Weekend", last September 16-18.
Salish Cliffs is part of the Little Creek Resort which is
operated by the Squaxin Island Tribe. There are over
200 rooms on site, and this property is far from done.
For those of you traveling by RV, the new RV park will
open later this year.
THE 15,000 SQUARE FOOT GREEN COMPLEX FOR HOLES 9 AND 18.
(photo by Brian Oar)
Salish Cliffs will put the golfer out in the middle of lush
great northwest forestry, for 16 of the 18 holes. While
on the course elevation change will become apparent,
as Salish Cliffs has over 600 feet of smooth transitions.
As a result, the club does not allow walking and carts
are mandatory. But the views from various points of the
course are stunning. Golfers can see Puget Sound and
the top of Mt. Rainer.
" It's a neat layout of 18 different holes, " said David Kass
the head professional at Salish Cliffs. " There is an big
elevation change, but landing area's are generous. That
makes the course enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels
and handicaps."
TO HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH DAVID KASS
FOR MORE ON SALISH CLIFFS CLICK HERE:
Download | Duration: 00:10:20
The Clubhouse at Salish is made from cedar Logs, the
second floor mezzanine looks out over the 9th and 18th
holes.
THE PAR 4 SECOND HOLE AT SALISH CLIFFS, AT THE LITTLE CREEK
Resort and Casino outside of Seattle Washington.(photo Brian Oar)
Architect Gene Bates followed a theme that would ensure
the course could be enjoyable for all players.
"I made the course large because the surroundings are
so big and beautiful, " Bates said. "The fairways are a
comfortable 40-50 yards wide, but there are plenty of
bunkers."
Kass feels holes 14 through 16 are a great stretch of
holes that will really challenge players.
"Fourteen is a great risk reward hole, " said Kass. "A
kind of blind tee-shot, with a demanding second shot
into the green that requires a carry over a wetland area.
Fifteen is a downhill drive and a uphill approach that
must carry bunkers right, or a false front left. While
sixteen is a tough long demanding dogleg par 4 right."
When done golfing, there are restaurants and a casino
on the property. A new spa should be completed this
year.
The drive out to Little Creek Resort is just over an hour
from Sea-Tac(oma) airport. For more information on
the golf and tee-times visit www.salish-cliffs.com or
call (360)-462-3673.
For more information on the resort and casino, you can
visit www.little-creek.com.
THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT, RANTS, RAVES & MORE
RORY SPEARS-LEN ZIEHM
IF YOU HAVEN'T..by now read my story on the Architect finalists for
the renovation project at Oak Meadows, you should. It's just the story
below this one.
The Dupage County Forest Preserve District has made some tough
choices already, and the job to pick the winner will be even harder.
GOOD LUCK.....To Ed Stevenson the DCFPD Director of Golf
Operations, the staff and board in making the best choice. All five
finalists have done work in the area with various municipalities, and
seem well suited to take on this job.
OAK MEADOWS..will be one of the premier jobs in not only the
Chicago area, but in the entire country. While the board of directors
has not yet voted to approve any set cost figure, millions could be
spent to redo the classic style golf course, improve the driving range
and rebuild the burned down clubhouse. A well done job could be
worthy of some national type awards.
THE CONSTRUCTION WORK..might start very late fall in 2013, but
will roll in 2014. In the meantime, go play and enjoy Oak Meadows
in it's original classic form. Play will not be interrupted in 2012, and
for most if not all of 2013.
THE 2013 CHICAGO GOLF SEASON, is apparently about to receive
a big boost. A little birdie tells the Gog Blog that the announcement
should now be close, of the host site for the 2013 BMW Championship.
While it's not clear if the ink on the contract is dry yet, we are told it's
location is a "done deal".
Chicago golf fans, the championship doesn't seem to be driving off to
another state either. In a year where Chicago is starving for golf events,
2013 will see the BMW Championship drive into Lake Forest. Near
the corner of the Tri-State Tollway Rt. 294 and Rt. 60. It seems that
Luke Donald for one, will be very happy with the announcement. So
will all the northsuburban BMW dealerships too. I send a congrats
to all parties involved.
BIG 3 PARTNER LEN ZIEHM...will begin his daily podcasts from the
PGA show in Orlando right here starting this Wednesday. Check into
the Gog Blog for all the latest..and visit www.lenziehmongolf.com for
more information.
For full recaps of the show. Everything you want to know, equipment,
clothes, accessories and more in golf.
ZIEHM..has already posted a preview story on his site, with a look at
what's new at Chicago based Wilson Golf...a long putter...hmmm.
BIG 3 PARTNER TIM CRONIN..has posted his "Front Nine" Column
today at www.golfinchicago.wordpress.com Tim has more on the
BMW Championship move up north and away from Cog Hill. Plus
fallout from the decision to "open" the Illinois Open to all.
ARCHITECT KEITH FOSTER...a good friend of yours truly has a
new venture going on. Foster who has been traveling like crazy in
recent years around the county, for his golf course design and
renovation work. Has been collecting antiques, furnishings, and
other great artifacts. No all of them are not just golf related things.
Check out, The Keith Foster Outpost www.keithfosteroutpost.com
to see the what's in the Outpost.
RAVES.........
A TIP OF THE CAP OR GOLF VISOR TO...Elmhurst's Mark Wilson
his third PGA Tour win in less than 13 months. It's obvious that with
early wins by Steve Stricker and Wilson, the midwest area guys are
going all out to make the USA Ryder Cup team at Medinah this
coming September.
TO FORMER NORTHWESTERN PLAYER DAVID LIPSKY..who
won the Asian Tour Q-school tournament. Lipsky will compete on
the Asian Tour starting with it's first event in Yangon, Myanmar
Feb. 2-5. Lipsky shot a four under par 68 final round to capture
the title. He credited NU coach Pat Goss and World #1 NU Alum
Luke Donald for sending him encouraging messages all week long.
TO GEOFF SHACKELFORD AND CRAIG DOLCH..for the work
put into surverying 81 PGA Tour Players, on the best and worst
PGA Tour Courses.
Poor Cog Hill..got pummeled. Finishing 46th out of 52 courses.
Comments about Cog included "worst redesign in history of the
PGA Tour" and that the late "Joe Jemsek must be spinning in
his grave."
The news was better for the D.A. Weibring designed TPC Deere
Run course in the Quad Cities, home of the John Deere Classic.
Deere Run finished 24th, with comments that included. " Fun
course even with soft greens." I wonder if that quote came from
the three-time defending champion Steve Stricker.
RANT........
AT THE GOLF CHANNEL...Concluded the final round on Sunday
by announcing their coverage from at the Farmers Insurance
Championship at Torrey Pines this week, okay. Then more
coverage with Tiger Woods at Abu Dhabi. ZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Only one player talked about again, why couldn't they mention
the good players who will be at Abu....geez.
Please visit the Gog Blog this week, for more travel destinations
and all the best via Len Ziehm at the PGA Show in Orlando.
Winter is speeding past us...stay in golf shape at the White Pines
Golf Dome, owned and operated by Mike Munro one of our Golfers
on Golf Radio partners...WPGD is located in Bensenville.
All the best,.....RORY SPEARS...The Gog Blog Guy.
OAK MEADOWS NAMES COURSE ARCHITECT FINALISTS
*******************GOG BLOG EXCLUSIVE********************************
OAK MEADOWS IS RISING FROM THE ASHES, THE FLOODS AND THE RUBBLE
Recent events at Oak Meadows GC in Addison, including a fire
that destroyed the clubhouse in 2009 and devastating floods from
summer storms have brought this classic Chicago area golf
course to a crossroad. With the insurance claim for the loss of the
clubhouse building settled, the immediate replacement of a
permanent clubhouse building may have seemed like a logical
next step. However, golf course officials have taken the opportunity
to step back and look at the bigger picture. Instead of starting a
search for a clubhouse architect, Oak Meadows began a search
for a golf course architect to create a new "master plan" for the
entire property.
Originally built and operated as the private Elmhurst Country Club,
Originally built and operated as the private Elmhurst Country Club,
this traditional tree-lined course became open to the public as Oak
Meadows in the mid-1980's. According to Director of Golf Ed
Stevenson, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
"acquired the course in 1985, recognizing its value for storm water
retention, open space, and recreation." Salt Creek runs through the
golf course and in recent summers Oak Meadows's ability to hold
flood water has been tested.
HEAVY RAINS LAST JULY INTERRUPTED PLAY AT OAK MEADOWS
(notice 150 yard pole in the middle of flooded area)
Stevenson says a new clubhouse for Oak Meadows is important,
"but as the old saying goes, nobody goes to the golf course to play
the clubhouse." The development of a master plan by a golf course
architect gives Oak Meadows a chance to realize multiple benefits.
"A successful re-design would position Oak Meadows as one of the
best public courses near Chicago for decades to come. It would
improve the course layout and make it less vulnerable to flooding.
It would also increase the ability to hold storm water, create high
quality environmental areas, and allow Oak Meadows to take
advantage of modern environmentally friendly maintenance
practices." An integrated multi-use trail, improved practice center,
and a junior golf area could all be part of the mix too. Knowing the
options for re-routing the course will let Oak Meadows make sure
that a new clubhouse is built in the right place.
When the Forest Preserve announced they were looking for a golf
architect to design a master plan for Oak Meadows, over 20
submitted their qualifications for the job. Many were well known
names in the industry. That list is now narrowed to five finalists,
whose names will be familiar to local golfers. A few of them are
hard at work currently in the Chicago area.
The Finalists are:
1. Greg Martin/Art Schaupeter.
Martin is currently doing renovation projects in Wheaton at
Arrowhead GC, with the second nine holes expected to reopen
this May. Martin has started work at Fox Run GC in Elk Grove.
Martin's work at Phillips Park in Aurora has been well received
by area golfers. Martin did renovation work at Settler's Hill GC,
run by the Kane County Forest Preserve District. His master
plan is also complete for a renovation project at the over 100
year old Wilmette Park District GC. Art Schaupeter who served
as assistant to Keith Foster at Shepherd's Crook in Zion, and
took over for Foster in the early stages at "The Highlands of
Elgin" to finish the course, has been named to Martin's team for
the project. Schaupeter was the lead architect for "The Club at
Old Hawthorne" in Columbia Mo., the home course for the
University of Missourri golf teams. He has several highly rated
course designs in Texas.
this May. Martin has started work at Fox Run GC in Elk Grove.
Martin's work at Phillips Park in Aurora has been well received
by area golfers. Martin did renovation work at Settler's Hill GC,
run by the Kane County Forest Preserve District. His master
plan is also complete for a renovation project at the over 100
year old Wilmette Park District GC. Art Schaupeter who served
as assistant to Keith Foster at Shepherd's Crook in Zion, and
took over for Foster in the early stages at "The Highlands of
Elgin" to finish the course, has been named to Martin's team for
the project. Schaupeter was the lead architect for "The Club at
Old Hawthorne" in Columbia Mo., the home course for the
University of Missourri golf teams. He has several highly rated
course designs in Texas.
2. Ray Hearn
Hearn who is an Evans Scholar is best known in Chicago for his
work at Mistwood GC in Romeoville, the site of the Phil Kosin Illinois
Womens Open. Hearn is also currently taking the course through a
renovation and Mistwood is expected to reopen at some point this
May. Hearn's work on the south suburban Flossmoor CC earned
him "Best Renovation of 2009 Award" by Golf World Magazine.
Hearn was the original architect at Island Hills GC in SE Michigan
that many Chicago golfers have traveled to play. Hearn is currently
making changes to Island Hills under the new ownership group.
3. David Esler
Esler is best known for his natural prairie style design in west
suburban Sugar Grove called the Black Sheep GC. Black Sheep
has been named by Golfweek Magazine as one of the America's
Greatest 100 Courses (Modern List/courses built since 1960). Esler
has done renovation work at Elgin CC, The Glenview Club, and the
recently made public south suburban Ravisloe GC. He also did
renovation work at Twin Orchards in Long Grove, after flooding
(like at Oak Meadows) damaged the course. Twin Orchards was
designed by C.D. Wagstaff, who was the same architect back in
the 1920's at Oak Meadows (then called, The Elmhurst CC).
(like at Oak Meadows) damaged the course. Twin Orchards was
designed by C.D. Wagstaff, who was the same architect back in
the 1920's at Oak Meadows (then called, The Elmhurst CC).
4. Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Jones has two projects in the Chicago area that golfers have
enjoyed for years. In DuPage, Jones designed Prairie Landing GC
in West Chicago, while up in Lake County Jones worked with the LC
Forest Preserve District in designing Thunderhawk in Beach Park.
Another RTJ Jr. project at Fort Sheridan is still on hold by the county.
Jones Jr. has worked at Crystal Tree in Orland Park. He is a finalist
for the 2016 olympic games course in Rio, and his Chambers Bay
GC near Seattle will host the 2015 US Open. Jones also designed
the home course for the University of Wisconsin Badgers, University
Ridge near Madison. His design at the Hyatt Regency Poipu Bay on
the Hawaiian island of Kauai; is the former home of the PGA's Grand
Slam of Golf, that brings together the winners of that years four major
championships.
the Hawaiian island of Kauai; is the former home of the PGA's Grand
Slam of Golf, that brings together the winners of that years four major
championships.
5. Bob Lohmann
Lohman has done several projects in the Chicago area, but his
renovations in Wheeling at "The Traditions at Chevy Chase" are
maybe his best known work. Lohmann also designed Boulder Ridge
in northwest suburban Lake in the Hills. Lohmann also renovated the
Deerpath GC in Lake Forest. Lohmann was the designer that
produced the Merit Club in Libertyville, that hosted the 2000
US Womens Open. He also did a 2003 renovation at the south
suburban Midlothian CC.
produced the Merit Club in Libertyville, that hosted the 2000
US Womens Open. He also did a 2003 renovation at the south
suburban Midlothian CC.
The five architects will come and meet DuPage Forest Preserve staff
to do a presentation and sit for interviews with the panelists working
on the project. Those are expected to start happening before the
month ends. According to Stevenson, the District will attempt to
negotiate a contract with the top candidate and get final approval
from the board of Forest Preserve Commissioners.
The Gog Blog will have a follow up story announcing the architect
who will design the Oak Meadows master plan as soon as they
are hired.
who will design the Oak Meadows master plan as soon as they
are hired.
Oak Meadows has an old classic course look and feel to it, because
that's exactly what it is. So many times these days the great classic
course renovations are done at private country clubs, and when the
renovations are complete the general public can't play them. That
won't happen at Oak Meadows. As a public facility operated by the
DuPage Forest Preserve, public golfers will continue to get access.
If Oak Meadows is on your list of courses to play this season, don't
worry. The existing course recovered nicely from last summer's
flooding and the design, approval, and permitting for any project like
this is expected to take time. The GOG Blog speculates that it would
be late 2013 or early 2014 before any construction would interrupt play.
However, if approved, golfers can at least look forward to seeing the
architect's vision of future plans on paper by sometime this summer.
In the meanwhile if you haven't played the existing classic Oak
Meadows layout where Ben Hogan won the 1941 Chicago Open,
you should while you still can. Course officials promise that any new
designs for Oak Meadows will be sure to retain the traditional and
historic feel of the former Elmhurst Country Club. But for now you
can still test your game on the layout where Hogan beat Snead, so
when the snow melts ; head to Oak Meadows and GO PLAY!
can still test your game on the layout where Hogan beat Snead, so
when the snow melts ; head to Oak Meadows and GO PLAY!
FIRE UP FOR FARMLINKS GOLF AND HUNTING
THE GOG BLOGS WINTER GOLF DESTINATIONS, HOLE # 3..FARMLINKS. ALABAMA
5TH HOLE, FARMLINKS GC AT PURSELL FARMS SYLACAUGA ALABAMA
FARMLINKS GC located at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga Alabama,
is now ranked in the Golf Digests 75 Best Golf Resorts in North
America. Farmlinks came in at # 39. Golfweek Magazine rates
Farmlinks the #1 Public course in Alabama.
Pursell Farms is 3,500 acres, located less than 50 miles from
Birmingham. Farmlinks GC is just part of the Pursell Farms
package.
Guests can come and fire at the flag sticks, or at quail. Golfers
can hunt for birdies on or off the course. Year round fishing is
another option, and we don't mean fishing your Titliests out of
a creek or pond. But largemouth bass and bream in FarmLinks
lakes.
THE PAR 3 17TH HOLE AT FARMLINKS GC
The Farmlinks golf club was designed in 1999 by architects
Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Frey (designers of Erin Hills).
Farmlinks is a par 72 championship golf course that plays
7,444 yards from the back tees.
Public play is always welcome and the green fees are an
all-day rate. So once you pay, you can play the rest of the
day. Top fee is only $135 prior to 10:30 AM. $100 dollars
after 1 PM. Fees include green fees for unlimited golf, and
unlimited use of practice facilites, range balls, cart and a
southern style lunch, snacks, beverages and ice-cold
apples on the course.
Farmlinks is more than just a golf course. It is a testing
ground for agronimic research and demonstration. Over
1,000 golf course superintendents come visit Farmlinks
each year to see the latest things to keep golf courses
at a premium. As a result, Farmlinks will be one of the
best condtioned courses you will ever play. Multiple
course product manufacturers have ties with Farmlinks,
to test the newest products there on site.
THE PAR 5 18TH HOLE AND CLUBHOUSE AT FARMLINKS.
Farmlinks does not have a hotel on the property, just more
relaxing and comfortable cottages and cabins. In addition
Farmlinks can provides guests with high-tech meeting
spaces, for those individuals or groups that need to conduct
business before or after golfing, hunting and fishing.
TO HEAR MORE ABOUT FARMLINKS...CLICK HERE TO
HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH FARMLINKS DIRECTOR
OF GOLF JOHN TRAWICK.
Download | Duration: 00:08:22
The weather in January has been holding in the 60's so far
and will start to get better in the weeks ahead. So bring your
golf clubs, your rifle, or fishing pole and visit Farmlinks.
Erle Fairly, presdient of Farmlinks promises that guests
will receive unparalleled customer service and fine southern
cuisine. While enjoying great golf on a PGA Tour-quality
course.
For more information on Farmlinks call (877)-292-FARM
(3276), or visit www.farmlinks.org. Farmlinks can be found
on all social media outlets, such as Facebook, Twitter,
and Linkedin. Visit and LIKE the FB page to receive special
deals the general public does not get.
GOLF THE GULF, IN GULF SHORES ALABAMA
THE SECOND HOLE OF OUR WINTER GOLF TOUR....GULF SHORES ALABAMA
THE SHORELINE IN GULF SHORES ALABAMA. HOME TO NINE GREAT GOLF COURSES
Look out the window Chicago golf fans. Look at the photos above
and below, where would you rather be. I thought so. Gulf Shores
Alabama has nine golf courses and more just waiting for you to
arrive. The temperature today is 73 degrees.
In a place where the locals yell "Roll Tide", golfers can watch the
tide roll by as they make their way around an area complete with
180 holes of golf.
Gulf Shores Alabama is a 32-mile stretch of Gulf Coast beach that
has mild winter temperatures, great golf, great food, nice places
to stay and plenty to do when off the course.
CRAFT FARMS IS HOME 36 HOLES OF ARNOLD PALMER DESIGNED COURSES,
(Cotton Creek GC on the left, and sister course Cypress Bend above right)
"The Gulf Coast's winter weather is very pleasant, especially
for folks who otherwise be shoveling snow in bitter wind chills,"
said Duncan Millar, executive director of Golf Gulf Shores. "The
attractive rates on our nine courses, great food and beverage
options and a host of area activities make Gulf Shores the perfect
winter golf destination."
TO HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH DUNCAN MILLAR ON
GOLF GULF SHORES..CLICK HERE
Download | Duration: 00:08:43
Those other activites include. Fishing, winter is a great time
for catching Bull Redfish. Why not hit a early morning fishing
charter, and your bag full of Titleists in the afternoon.
If you love seafood Gulf Shores has plenty of seafood restaurants,
or pick up the "catch of the day" at Blalocks Fish Market and
cook them yourself at the condo.
If shopping is your thing, try both the Foley and Tanger Outlets,
popular for deals and specials. Orange County Art Center is
known as a must see venue, it has artists in residence. There
is also the Ten-Mile slow drive through the Bon Secour National
Wildlife Refuge. Or try the popular pub crawl..it' starts at Lulu's
the sister of Jimmy Buffett. Tours of historic Fort Morgan that
will celebrate it's 151st anniversary on Jan. 29th, are always
enjoyable.
Arnold Palmers signature designed courses at Craft Farms,
Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend are both fun and challenging
for any golfer. Cotton Creek is lined with Southern Hardwoods
while Cypress Bend has it's share of cord-grass accented lakes.
Glenlakes Golf Club is a scottish style links course designed
by Count Von Hagge, the course is complete with extensive
bunkering and postage-stamp size greens.
THE 16TH HOLE AT THE AWARD WINNING KIVA DUNES GOLF CLUB.
Kiva Dunes a Jerry Pate design is rated a "Top 100 Golf Course
in America by Golf Digest.
Lost Key Golf Club, was redesigned by the Arnold Palmer Design
group in 2006, the course winds through woods and wetlands. It
also features a new clubhouse.
The Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, complete with 27 holes
and chilled apples on the tee. The course has 30 lakes and
wraps around the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve.
Rock Creek Golf Club has rolling terrain and fairways lined with
pine trees. Designed by Earl Stone.
Timber Creek Golf Club, another Earl Stone design that has a
Carolina course feel to it. Complete with pines, dogwoods, and
magnolias.
Gulf Shores Golf Club, this course was formerly known as the
Golf Club of the Wharf, and was the first course in Gulf Shores.
Orignally opened in 19060, was redigned by Jay and Carter
Morrish in 2005.
With the weather great for golf, and plenty of good food,cold
beverages and more to enjoy. Why not make Gulf Shores a
winter getaway for you now.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GULF SHORES ALABAMA.
Please visit www.golfgulfshores.com. Or call (888)-815-1902.
There are package rates valid with Golf Shores accommodation
partners through Feb.26.
Gulf Shores will be present at the Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont
Feb. 24-26. See their booth there.
THE GOG BLOGS SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME
THE BIG 3 GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO
CRONIN-ZIEHM-SPEARS STEVENSON-SPEARS-MUNRO
SPEARS-ZIEHM
Will team up on daily podcasts
from the PGA show Jan. 26-28.
BIG THREE NEWS......Len Ziehm www.LenZiehmOnGolf.com will report daily
from Orlando at the PGA of America merchandise show coming up later this
month Jan. 26-28. The PGA merchandise show is the biggest golf show of
the year.
This year for the first time in years, almost all of the major golf equipment
makers will be in the house. The show not only has equipment, but many
top professionals stop by various show booths to help out products they
endorse. Apparel and golf items galore are on hand to be seen by buyers
and media from everywhere.
As each day winds down Ziehm will call in, and the Gog Blog will post a
Podcast recaping Ziehm's observations and other news of the day. Ziehm
will have a full story at his site as well. But for daily updates from the PGA
Show, keep it right here at the Gog Blog.
CANTIGNY GOLF WILL HOST THE FIRST CHICAGO SHOW OF 2012 ON THURSDAY FEB.2ND
(Golfers hit all winter at the new Cantigny golf academy)
YES..thats' correct Thursday Feb. 2nd. From 11 AM- 8 PM, admission
is $10, but parking is FREE. Eight of the top equipment manufacturers
are already signed up to take part. It will be Cantigny's first golf show.
In addition to the equipment makers, there will be seminars from the
Cantigny professional staff and a golf fitness demonstration. There are
prize drawings every 30 minutes.
"This event provides a great chance to see the new product lines for
2012, but our guests will have access to the experts in the field, that
includes the equipment reps and our own clubfitters, Everett Lockenvitz
and Pat Hickey, " said Patrick Lynch, Cantigny head golf professional.
"We're also looking forward to showing off our year round academy,
especially to first time visitors."
Preregistered guests can enter to win a free foursome of golf at Cantigny.
Registration is open at CantignyGolf.com. by phone at (630) 260-8199.
GOLF SHOW #2...Is at the Timley Park Exposition Center I-80 and
Harlem Avenue Feb. 17-19 more info. (708)-990-3379.
GOLF SHOW #3...The big one. The Chicago Golf Show. Feb. 24-26,
at the Donald Stephens Convention Center Rosemont. More info is at
www.chicagogolfshow.com.
THE ILLINOIS PGA..put out the 2012 playing schedule last Friday, there
are some changes from past years.
FIRST UP CHANGES ON THE ILLINOIS OPEN...for a look at the process
story, visit BIG 3 partner Tim Cronin's www.golfinchicago.wordpress.com.
It's an interesting behind the scenes look at what happened when the
motion was made to make the Illinois Open..a real OPEN..to everyone
from anywhere championship, was proposed.
OTHER ILLINOIS OPEN CHANGES INCLUDE...dates and location. First
up is the date, which has been moved up. To July 16-17-18 which means
it starts the day after the John Deere Classic ends. It will tee off this year
at another Kemper Sports property in 2012. No more Hawthorn Woods
and hello again Glen Club. Phil Arouca is defending champion.
More changes..the IPGA Match Play at Kemper Lakes is May 14-17
(defending champion Jim Sobb), will be held two weeks before the IPGA
Senior Match Play Championship at Shoreacres May 29-31. Where
the defending champion is..again Jim Sobb.
THE 51ST RADIX CUP MATCHES..are June 13th at Oak Park CC. The
amateurs currently hold the cup. The Illinois PGA Championship will
be held August 27-29 at Stonewall Orchard GC, in Grayslake. Frank
Hohenadel is defending champion.
CANTIGNY GOLF'S RICH DUKELOW..is expected to defend his title
at the IPGA Players Championship on Oct. 8th and 9th at Eagle Ridge
in the seasons final major. For more on IPGA events visit IPGA.com.
THE COG HILL CORNER......Course #4 Dubsdread has been named
the 22nd toughest course in America by Golf Digest that used it's
rating panelists to vote on the top 75 toughest. Only Butler National
#11 and Medinah's 3 course at #16 in Illinois were rated harder.
REMINDER..Cog Hill is open all year round. Courses 1 & 3 anyway.
In the proshop all apparel is 40 % off in January.
GOLF RATES AT COG HILL...for 2012 will be the same as 2011. No
price increase. Thank You Jemsek Family. No word on the Jemsek
golf run Pine Meadow GC rates in Mundelein yet. 1-(866)-COG-HILL
or visit www.coghillgolf.com.
GOLF ON SUPERBOWL SUNDAY...LAS VEGAS...at Bali Hai GC,
18 hole shotgun 9 AM followed by super bowl party. Sun. Feb 5th.
Only $299 per player, golf, food, drinks included. (888)-427-6678.
NBA ALL-STAR WEEKEND AND GOLF..Orlando FL. at Arnie's
very own Bay Hill Lodge and Golf. It's the All-Star Invitational on
Feb. 24th. 40 names from the sports and entertainment world join
amateurs for golf. All proceeds go to the various Arnold Palmer
Foundation Charities. The event will be hosted by Anthony Anderson.
For info. Call Ty Devallade (407)-656-1655 Ty@golfquests.com.
WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME..you can do so at the Pinehurst
Golf Advantage School at the Pinehurst Resort. Two amateurs named
Mike McClanahan and Bill Friese are trying to drop ten shots off
their game in one week. Follow their progress on FB-Twitter and on
YouTube more info. www.pinehurst.com.
FOR THE BEST IN GOLF CLAENDARS..And other golf pictures,
that can be sent to your I-phone/pod/pad. visit www.golfshots.com.
By Evan Schiller.
TEACHER CHRIS SPALLA.. now has a second Illinois Winter home
for teaching. The Bridgeview Sports Dome 8900 South 77th Ave.
For instruction (708)-710-2005. Spalla is still found at TPC Chicago
in Justice.
MIKE MUNRO'S WHITE PINES GOLF DOME IN BENSENVILLE (630)-422-1060
The best in town for winter golf practice has more club demo days
coming up. January..Titleist Jan.19 5-9 PM. Ping Jan. 18th 6-9 PM,
more dates are coming soon. Five dates are confirmed for Feb., stay
linked in here for more info.
GOG Blog readers..on your next visit to the White Pines Golf Dome
if you don't see our sign at the counter advertising the Gog Blog.
Please give owner Mike Munro a hard time for not having it up yet.
LOL.
In the meantime..Thanks to everyone that has been reading us of
late.Our numbers are way up this winter. You the golfer have made
us the number #1 golf news website in Chicago. Again Thank You.
The snow has fallen..but GO Practice in the Dome or hit the warm
weather destinations and GO Play. Another warm weather spot in
Alabama called The Farm..appears this week on the Gog Blog.
12 REASONS FOR CHICAGO GOLFERS TO BE EXCITED FOR 2012
THE GOG BLOG PRESENTS..12 REASONS FOR CHICAGO
TO BE EXCITED ABOUT GOLF IN 2012.
#12 THE BIG 3...TIM CRONIN,LEN ZIEHM & RORY SPEARS...over 100
years of golf reporting experience in Chicago. The trio plans on bringing
Chicago the golf coverage it deserves. Found on three big websites is all
the golfer needs.
Golfersongolf.com. Rory Spears Lenziehmongolf.com. and from Tim Cronin
Golfinchicago.wordpress.com.
#11..MAY 29TH MEDINAH PATRIOT DAY. MEDINAH COUNTRY CLUB
WILL BE ONE OF THE BEST..golf outings this year in the Chicago area.
IPEF..headed up by Chairman Mark Slaby will put on a great show for a
great cause. It's expected there will be again some limited opportunites
to play Medinah's Course #3 at this outing. Only 120 days before the
Ryder Cup tee's off. More info MedinahPatriotDay.com.
#10.OAK MEADOWS GC RISES FROM FIRE AND FLOOD WATERS.
THE RUBBLE GETS CLEARED AWAY AT OAK MEADOWS...Now the plan
to renovate the course, eliminate the flooding and build a new clubhouse are
going forward. Dupage County is hoping to name the archtiect that will lead
the project in the upcoming weeks. Then the new master plan can be done.
Oak Meadows GC (630)-595-1800. Dupagegolf.com for more info.
#9. COG HILL. With no BMW Championship at Cog Hill for the first time in
years, and with no renovations going on. Cog Hill will have more open tee
times on Dubs (course #4) than anytime in years. No tournament week,
no advance shutdown, no cleanup. No cart path restrictions. Just pure golf
everyday, enjoy. The Jemseks will welcome you with open arms, they are
great hosts.
THE PAR 3 6TH HOLE ON DUBSDREAD. www.coghillgolf.com or please
call 1-(866)-COG-HILL.
#8. THE CANADIEN PGA TOUR MIDWEST PRO-AM. Sept. 10-16 at
The Grove CC, in Long Grove. (was previously Royal CC of Long Grove
in 2011, and Hillcrest CC in 2010).
THE CLUBHOUSE AT "THE GROVE". If you have ever wanted to play
in a pro-am, like the one you see at Pebble Beach. Here is your chance
and you don't have to fly to California. Okay, no ocean here either but
you don't want to play shots from there anyway.
A few years back. The Gog Blog Guy, played in one of these pro-ams
with the Canadien PGA Tour at Barton Creek in Texas, and it was one
of the best golf experiences ever. Even with missing the cut by 2 shots.
This event will be one very fun week. www.dogwoodsports.com or call
(312)-560-5509.
#7.MISTWOOD GC IN ROMEOVILLE REOPENS,after renovations.
ARCHITECT RAY HEARN..and crew got a good early start last summer
and that will payoff this spring. Re-opening expected mid-late May and
golfers will enjoy the new renovations complete with some 30+ British
Open style bunkers. It will be a great test for the players in the Phil
Kosin Illinois Womens Open. www.mistwoodgolf.net. (815)-254-3333.
#6. ARROWHEAD GOLF CLUB IN WHEATON..reopens it's South 9
after renovations by Greg Martin.
Martin and crew redid the Arrowhead GC East 9 in 2010, that already reopened
in 2011. The South nine has just a little sodding to finish up in the spring. But is
expected to reopen in mid-late May. Once it does, golfers need to go play the
finished 18 holes. It will be a treat. www.arrowheadgolfclub.org (630)-510-5070.
Arrowheads third nine the West 9, will start renovation in the fall of this year.
White sand bunkers, some tree removal and really improved greens await those
who visit Arrowhead in 2012.
#5..Big time tournaments within driving distance. The BMW Championship, The
Womens US Open, The Senior PGA Championship.
THE BMW CHAMPIONSHIP THE US WOMENS OPEN SENIOR PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
CROOKED STICK BLACKWOLF RUN HARBOR SHORES GC
WITH IN..only a couple of hours driving time from Chicago, golfers can
see the BMW Championship at the Pete Dye designed Crooked Stick
GC, just north of Indianapolis Sept. 3-9. The US Womens Open from
July 2-8 in Kohler Wis., From May 22-28 The Senior PGA Championship
In Benton Harbor MI. at the Jack Nicklaus designed Harbor Shores GC.
All events well worth the drive. More info.www.bmwchampionshipusa.com.,
2012uswomensopen.com.,pga.com/seniorpga/2012.com. Get your tickets
now while you still can.
#4 THE USGA MID-AM AT CONWAY FARMS AND KNOLLWOOD.
THE PAR 3 17TH AT CONWAY FARMS THE CLUBHOUSE AT KNOLLWOOD
THE USGA RETURNS TO THE CHICAGO AREA..from Sept.10-16 in Lake Forest
with the Mid-Amateur Championship. Hosted by the Tom Fazio designed Conway
Farms GC, with Knollwood CC serving as the second course. Knollwood was
recently renovated by Keith Foster. For more information visit www.usga.org.
312 PLAYERS..will battle over the course of a week, in stroke and match play
to determine the champion.
#3. THE WESTERN AMATEUR AT EXMOOR CC IN HIGHLAND PARK.
ETHAN TRACY DAVID CHUNG JOHN HAHN
2011 NORTHSHORE CC 2010 SKOKIE CC 2009 CONWAY FARMS GC
WHO WILL JOIN..these three Chicago area champions as the next
Western Amateur Champion by winning the Western Amateur this
summer at Exmoor CC, in Highland Park. For more information call
(847)-724-4600 or visit www.wgaesf.com. Dates July 30-Aug 4th.
#2. STEVE STRICKER GOES FOR THE SLAM AT THE JOHN DEERE CLASSIC
THIS IS GETTING TO BE A FAMILIAR SIGHT IN JULY AT THE JOHN DEERE
CLASSIC, at the TPC Deere Run golf course.
Steve Stricker just keeps on winning, and winning, and winning in
the quad cities. After already winning in 2012 at Kapalua, he just
might do it again this July 9-15. It's very rare a PGA Tour player
defends his title, much less twice at the same event.
Four in a row can he complete, the Stricker Slam or the Quad
Deere Championship in the Quad Cities. Get in the car and go,
it's history in the making. Tournament Director Clare Peterson
and staff always put on a great show, it's time for you to go if
you haven't been there. For more information please visit,
www.johndeereclassic.com. Always a great event.
#1. THE 2012 RYDER CUP CHAMPIONSHIP SEPT.28-30 AT MEDINAH CC.
THE 2012 RYDER CUP AT MEDINAH CC..is one of those one in a
lifetime events you don't want to miss. Team USA headed up by
Captain Davis Love III, will try and regain the cup that was lost in
2010 to the European team that will be lead by Captain Jose
Maria Olazabol. For more information www.pga.com.
THERE YOU GO CHICAGO GOLF FANS. PLENTY TO LOOK FORWARD
TO, GO OUT ENJOY AND PLAY. IT SHOULD BE A GREAT 2012.
THE GOG BLOGS BREAKING GOLF NEWS
GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO THE BIG 3
Ed Stevenson-Rory Spears-Mike Munro Tim Cronin-Len Ziehm-Rory Spears
CANTIGNY GOLF.....Will host the First golf show in Chicago for the
new year. It's THURSDAY FEB. 2 2012. At least eight equipment
manufacturers will be on hand.
HOURS..will be 11 AM- 8 PM. There will also be seminars, prizes,
and more. You can register to attend NOW.. at CantignyGolf.com or
by phone at (630)-260-8199. Pre-registered guests will be entered to
win a FREE foursome for 18 holes of golf at Cantigny.
ADMISSION IS $10..Parking is free. Full details will be here on the
Gog Blog's Sunday Morning Short Game this Sunday Jan. 15.
THE PGA TOUR STORE..is coming to town. At 1321 East Golf Road
in Schaumburg. A second store at a unknown location will open this
year in Chicago. No date is set for when either store store will open.
The Gog Blog is awaiting word from both the WGA/BMW Championship
and the John Deere Classic, the two Illinois PGA Tour stops. If they
will sell merchandise there.
PGA TOUR COMMISSIONER...Tim Finchem has agreed to a new
four year deal with the tour. It's not clear yet if Finchem who turns 65
in April will finish out the entire contract.
THAT'S THE BREAKING GOLF NEWS OF TODAY........