Golfers on Golf Radio
the blog between the broadcasts . . . with news and notes from Rory Spears
Spears on Golf
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........
THE WGA NAMES JIM BUNCH AS NEW CHAIRMAN
THE WESTERN GOLF ASSOCIATION NAMES JIM BUNCH OF
DENVER, THE NEW WGA CHAIRMAN. (photo courtesy WGA)
Jim Bunch of Denver Colorado will serve as the next Chairman
for the Western golf Association. Bunch will serve a two-year
term.
Bunch has been a WGA Director since 1992, in addition he
has been a USGA Volunteer. Bunch was a member of the
USGA Executive Committee from 2003-2010. Bunch resigned
his USGA position to spend more time working with the WGA.
The WGA Board of Directors elected Bunch in December after
he served as Vice Chairman. Bunch is the first WGA Chairman
from Colorado, and he succeeds Roger Mohr of Lake Forest.
Bunch became aware of the WGA at age 12, while caddying
at the Glen View Club.
"Caddying is in my DNA, and the Evans Scholars program hits
all my hot buttons-caddying, golf, education and helping to build
a better future for our young people, " said Bunch, who also was
a caddy and worked in the golf shop at Evanston Country Club.
"When I caddied I met and gained a tremendous amount of
respect for the men who were the leaders of the WGA. I thought
that if they were motivated to volunteer for the WGA, it would be
something that I should do."
Bunch has made it clear that he plans to continue the strong
effort being made by the WGA, to help raise more money to
cover rising the costs of keeping 825 caddies in college.
Bunch hopes to increase the number of caddies on scholarship
going forward.
"I'm going to focus primarily on fund-raising and telling our
success story to potential donors," Bunch said. "I want to
build greater awareness of the good we are doing and give
people the opportunity to support this wonderful program."
WGA President and CEO John Kaczkowski feels the large
network of friends in golf Bunch has built over the years, will
help him accomplish what he wants to do while serving as
WGA Chairman.
"Jim has been an invaluable contributor to the Western Golf
Association and Evans Scholars Foundation, " said Kaczkowski.
"His commitment to our scholarship and championship programs
and his experience as a leader at the USGA, make him well
equipped to guide our organization the next two years."
Bunch is a member of the Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle
Rock Colo., and the Denver Country Club in Denver Colo.,
but is not a member at Cherry Hills CC, the site of the 2014
BMW Championship.
THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT..WELCOME TO GOLF 2012
THE BIG 3
CRONIN-ZIEHM-SPEARS
THE BIG 3...Chicago's top golf writing tandem has joined forces
to bring Chicago the great golf coverage it deserves.
BIG 3 golf coverage is found on line here at the Gog Blog, at
the revamped www.lenziehmongolf.com. In addition to the
website www.golfinchicago.wordpress.com by Tim Cronin.
WHAT IS THE BIG 3...it's over 100 years of golf coverage in
Chicago, teaming up to provide the windy city with coverage
that is only found at websites like this. In addition to Golfers
on Golf Radio summers on AM-1530 WJJG, and in print at
Val Russell's Chicago Area Golf/ chicagogolfonline.com.
BIG 3 NEWS...HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEN ZIEHM...stealing
one from Ziehm's Sun-Times pals..Ziehm is now "Ageless".
The big Ziehm golf travel machine is now in Florida, but on
the way stopped in West Virginia. LenZiehmOnGolf.com has
a story about Len's efforts to find out more about the country's
oldest golf course Oakhurst. It reads more like a Scooby-Doo
mystery.
Ziehm will also be reporting at the end of January from the
PGA show in Orlando. On his site and maybe something
here as well. Stay tuned.
MORE BIG 3, Tim Cronin Golfinchicago.wordpress.com.
was quick on the scene with a story about the passing of
TNT and CNN golf commentator Jim Huber. Tim also has
more on the 2012 golf schedule. Including information on
what has now become Chicago's first winter golf show of
2012. The Tinley Park Golf Expo Feb. 17-19, at the Tinley
Park Convention Center I-80 and Harlem Ave. More info
(708)-990-3379.Looking forward to seeing some of you
southside golfers out there next month.
REMINDER..golfers feel free to follow us on Twitter
@GogBlogGuy. Become a follower, or friend me on
Facebook Rory Spears. Gog Blog updates appear
at both places.
IT'S GO(LF) TIME..FOR 2012..and what a great year it
should be for Chicago area golfers and courses. The Gog
Blog will have the 12 reasons to be excited about golf in
2012, coming this Thursday Jan. 12th (of course).
2012 is starting off at great at Kapalua..Steve Stricker
wins the PGA Tours first event of 2012, with a 3 shot
win over Martin Laird on the Plantation Course. To hear
Stricker talk about his win please click here:
Download | Duration: 00:00:55
TIP of the cap or golf visor to Kapalua Golf GM, Chicago's
very own Mike Jones. Kapalua looks great and the players
seem to love it.
HANK HANEY.. a former guest on Golfers On Golf Radio,
and sit down guest of yours truly, has written a book that
will come out the week prior to the Masters about his
time as swing coach of ol' TW.
From chatting with Haney, it became apparent those time's
for him were a real grind. It appears that the book explains
that, Haney says it's not a book to take "a jab at anyone."
Of course that didn't stop the Woods camp and agent
Mark Steinberg from saying, he knew about a book and
that Tiger would have "no comment".
NO COMMENT ABOUT WHAT MARK..!!!..some agent
you are. You apparently haven't seen the book, neither
has your client and your in the lock down mode. What
are you afraid of. If that's the way you're going to approach
this season, then I really feel sorry for Pebble Beach that
they are getting stuck with your client being in the field.
THE GOG BLOG LOOKS FORWARD to reading the
book when it comes out. A review will also get posted
on this site as well.
THE ILLINOIS PGA..will post it's tournament schedule for
2012 coming this Friday Jan. 13th at noon. Hopefully at
that time there will be more information on this years
Illinois Open, and IF it's returning to Hawthorn Woods CC.
STILL NO WORD FROM THE WGA..on the location of
the 2013 BMW Championship. Expected to be here in
Chicago, but who knows. The delay in announcing a
site continues to drag on.
There is speculation now, that the WGA had considered
a return to the 2008 BMW Championship site Bellerive CC
just outside of St. Louis. The location proved to be a good
one for the WGA and profitable for the Evans Scholars.
But late last fall the PGA of America named Bellerive as
host for the 2013 SR. PGA Championship and the 2018
PGA Championship. That announcement most likely
forced the WGA to jump back in the car and continue
looking for another course.
WORD HAD REACHED US..that our good friend and golf
pro Chris Spalla is now working at two locations this winter
around the Chicago area. First at the Mike Mandakas run
TPC Chicago on 79th street in Justice. Spalla has also
added a new location at the Bridgeview Sports Dome,
that is located at 8900 South 77th Ave. For more info.
www.bridgeview-IL.gov/dome. For instruction call (708)
710-2005. Or email at highoctanegolf@aol.com.
A TIP OF THE CAP AND GOLF VISOR TO...Dave Harner
one of the good guys in the Indiana PGA section. Dave
was just named Indiana PGA Section pro of the year
for 2011. Dave is the Director of Golf at the French Lick
Resort, home of the Pete Dye and the Donald Ross
Courses. www.frenchlick.com.
THE GOG BLOG RETURNS..Thursday..with 12 in 12,
on the 12th and on Sunday with the first Sunday Morning
Short Game column of 2012. More travel golf coming soon.
The temperature should be over on Tuesday...hmm if so
GO PLAY..or hit balls in the White Pines Golf Dome.
THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT...are the opinions of
Rory Spears, and not always my partners at Golfers on
Golf Radio.
A WEISKOPF WINNER FOREST DUNES IN MICHIGAN (updated)
THE FOREST DUNES CLUBHOUSE THAT SITS BEHIND THE PAR 3 9TH AND YES THE PAR 3 19TH. (Arkansas trucking maganate Lew Thompson has bought Forest Dunes)
EDITOR NOTE...from the Gog Blog Guy. This was my original story from
August 8th, 2010. But it is now updated with the sale of the course to Lew
Thompson, an Arkansas trucking magnate.
Thompson is a managing partner to, The Bridges Golf and Country Club. A
Jack Nicklaus course in Colorado. Thompson plans improvements to the
property to make the highly rated course more attractive to daily golfers
and members alike.
Plans have already been drawn up for a new 22-room hotel, that is complete
with four luxery suites. The new hotel will be attached to the clubhouse.
"A lot of our members live out of state so when they come in they will have
a nicer place to stay than a hotel room," Thompson said. "From research I've
done, for many golfers we are a stop off for players heading north or south.
That's because we have had no place to stay, so that's why we have decided
to build the hotel."
Thompson has also purchased seven model homes on the property. Thompson
will also retain Jim Bluck superintendent of grounds, and Donny Fisher the
Forest Dunes head golf professional. More improvements are expected as
time goes on.
THE FOLLOWING...is the original story.
There are times when one plays a golf course and wonders why the course
or club has the name that it does, that confusion does not exist at Forest Dunes
in Roscommon Michigan. The clubs names spells out exactly what you will get
for all 19 holes.
This Tom Weiskopf design which one national publication rates as the best
public facility in America, is a fantastic combination of holes that run through
a northern Michigan forest and a sandy dune type piece of property. They provide
a mix of classic holes that best describe both of the sport of golfs two favorite
ways to enjoy the game.
If you like the old traditional classic course feel of, keep it between the trees and
out of the bunkers Forest Dunes has that. You like the seaside links style golf,
with sand dunes and the option to play some bump and run golf, you will find
that at Forest Dunes as well. Forest Dunes is surrounded by 400,000 acres of
wilderness in Michigan's Huron National Forest.
The course does have 19 holes not just 18, if you wonder why it's because of
and old tradition at some courses to have an extra hole. Or a Bye-hole as it's
called to settle bets or sometimes matches, in the case of Forest Dunes it's a
par 3 117 yards with a bunker in the center of the green. Kind of like the sixth
hole at Riviera in Pacific Palisades California (near LA). As a result the cold
one your waiting to have at the end of your round will be served at the 20th hole.
Weiskopf a former British Open and U.S. Senior Open Champion, calls Forest
Dunes one of the best courses he has ever designed. "I would put Forest Dunes
in the top three courses I have ever been involved with."
THE PAR 4 17TH HOLE 302 YARDS AT FOREST DUNES, BIG HITTERS SHOOT FOR THE GREEN
Forest Dunes offers a complete golf experience. In addition to 19 challenging holes of
golf, the clubhouse is one to be enjoyed many ways. Either for dining, pro shop, or just
relaxing and if scheduled getting a massage.
The practice facility is long and double sided, it also has a complete with a two-and-a-half
acre putting course that is fun for all.
THE 375 YARD PAR FOUR SIXTH HOLE CALLED GAMBLE HAS SPLIT FAIRWAYS AND OPTIONS
FOR THE PLAYERS.
The five different tee boxes provide challenges for all skill levels. The tee's are I, II, III,
IV, and V. With the V tee's being the layout for junior golfers. The tips are tee box I
playing at 7,141, with II at 6,579, III tees are 5,920, IV the front tees are 5,032.
CLICK HERE TO HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH FOREST DUNES HEAD
PROFESSIONAL DONNIE FISHER:
Download | Duration: 00:03:40
The first hole a par 4 399 yards called Eagles Perch, takes one out from the clubhouse
and heads them towards the forest. Off the tee one must carry a dune area, keeping the
tee shot right of the bunkers and wastelands. It must also play left of the trees, a good
opening hole.
Welcome to the forest part of Forest Dunes. Aspen is the par 4 451 yard second hole,
bring your driver you will need it. Be careful of a few long hanging branches from trees
down the leftside, the right side is the best approach anyway.
The golfers first par 3 of the round is Table Top, it plays 203 yards and is surrounded
by four bunkers but there is room to run the shot up. These bunkers are deep.
Lone Pine is the 402 yard par 4 fourth hole, that plays left to right. Just avoid the left
bunkers on your tee shot and your approach is good.
The par 5 602 yard fifth hole called Mason Trail is the longest hole on the course. It
starts out left to right and then just goes straight for a long way. Bunkers front left and
right guard this tricky green.
After playing Gamble the par 4 sixth hole, that leaves the players several options on
how to gamble for their score, the next par 5 at 531 yards Goal Posts is waiting at the
upcoming tee box.
THE GOAL POSTS ON THE PAR 5 531 YARD SEVENTH HOLE AT FOREST DUNES GC
The eighth hole called Forests Edge is just that. A tee shot from the forest that takes one
back out towards the water and dunes area. Just be careful a bunker guards the right side
of the dogleg,and water sneaks in around the right side of hole by the green.
A great view of the clubhouse with a well guarded four bunker green, awaits golfers as
they head towards the ninth tee of "The Point". A par 3 playing 203 yards, carry the water
and sand and you will be fine. If the wind is blowing have fun hitting this green.
THE PAR 4 479/439 YARD 10TH HOLE IS CALLED DECISION WITH A SPLIT FAIRWAY, THAT IS
DIVIDED BY A SANDY DUNE BUNKER AREA.
Prairie is the par 3 192 yard 11th hole. Your tee shot must clear the prairie area, and avoid
the five bunkers that guard the green. Don't go long, the forest is coming back into play.
The forest is back in full force one last time on White Tail the par 4 397 yard 12th hole. The
tee shot calls for left to right, followed by a shot to a green with water front right and a big
bunker left.
Twin trees pinch the approach shot here, at the 373 yard par 4 13th hole. Ample room to
land the drive then split the "Twins" at 90 yards and one is home free. If the well undulated
green doesn't get you.
The 14th hole a par 4, 464 yard test of your long and strategic game. Not too far off the tee
right, a big bunker awaits, aim left and the water starts to creep in. Water left and bunkers
front and back guard this narrow green.
It's time to turn for home and the 558 yard par 5 Hideaway puts you in the right direction.
There is some area to cover off the tee, bring your driver and HIT IT.
Hell's Half Acre...HA..how about Hell's (full) Acre. It's found at the par 3, 231 yard 16th hole.
Blast it long, bunkers left and right too. A real test into the wind, that normally blows right
to left.
Wild Dunes is one of the most talked about holes in Northern Michigan. A short par 4 of
302 yards has..Go For It, written all over it. Most people do from about 280, there is room
to miss it short.
The 18th hole called Eagle Chance does not yield many, even though it plays only 531
yards. The fairway is narrow with sand dunes and water left and right. The fairway also
angles between some bunkers, the green has water left and back. Oh yeah a sand
bunker short and right.
The Bye Hole at number 19 really needs a cooler full of cold ones. With a bunker in the
center of the green, putting gets interesting when one hits the green on the wrong side.
Forest Dunes is a full test of your golf game. It ranks in Golfweek Magazine's Modern
Course America's Greatest 100 list. The General Manager is Mark Gurnow.
For information on Forest Dunes and memberships. Please call 1-(866)-DUNES-MI. Or
visit www.forestdunesgolf.com. Forest Dunes 6376 Forest Dunes Drive Roscommon MI.
SADDLE CREEK RESORT..WARM WEATHER GOLF
THE GOG BLOG PROMISED WARM WEATHER GOLF
ideas this winter, so here is our 1st hole of 2012. Thanks
to Glenn Gray and our friends at Buffalo Communications
for passing on this special.
THE 10TH HOLE AT SADDLE CREEK RESORT COPPEROPOLIS CA. Take
advantage now of an early season 2 for 1 deal through Feb. 29th.
If heading west is in your plans for early 2012, then why not think of
starting out at the Saddle Creek Resort in Copperopolis California.
Saddle Creek is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Calaveras
County. Starting today through Feb. 29th, a "Two-for-one Stay and
Play Package begining for only $223 a per-person is available.
The 18 hole championship golf course, opened in 1996 and was
designed by Carter Morrish. There are five sets of tees, ranging
from just over 4,400 yards up front. To the tips playing at 6,826.
There is a fair amount of water on the course, that makes any
round even more challenging. The course has 100 bunkers and
no two holes run parallel to one another.
In 2006 Golfweek Magazine named the course the 8th Best Public
Access Course in California. Since then Golf Digest has given the
course a 4.5 star rating. Only Pebble Beach in California rates
higher. From the course there are views of the historic Yosemite
National Park.
The package includes two nights of accommodations (double occ),
two rounds of golf, complimentry breakfast and cart fees; unlimited
range balls.
"Our package offers the perfect opportunity to experience one of
Northern California's best golf resorts at an incredible value, " said
Bob Higgins, Saddle Creek General Manager. "The course is in
excellent condition and our bungalows provide an ideal getaway
for couples or golf groups of all playing abilities."
The bungalows sit along holes one and nine. They come equipped
full kitchen and dining areas, complimentry Wi-Fi and a living room
with fireplace and satellite TV. After your round, golfers can dine in
the Copper Grille. Being located in Northern California the grille is
stocked with over 500 of worlds best wines.
Saddle Creek Resort is located two hours from the downtown Bay
Area or 90 minutes from Sacramento. Guests are also encouraged
to visit nearby Copperopolis Town Square for shopping, done in a
"Gold Rush" era theme. Visit www.CopperopolisTownSquare.com.
for more information.
For more information on Saddle Creek Resort or the two-for-one
special, please call (209)-785-7415. Or visit the resorts website
at www.SaddleCreek.com.