bgparks.org.  847-459-2321                                     addisonparks.org 630-233-7275

BY: RORY SPEARS, ASSISTANT         EDITOR & SR. WRITER

It’s December, yes it is. But you can still play outdoor golf this weekend if you want to. The temperature is expected to be up near 50 and as a result, the Shiloh Park 9-hole golf course in Zion is open this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. the course will open each day at 8 AM, and there is power carts available if you need them.

For more information you can call (847)746-5500 or online visit shilohparkgolf.com. Come play the course some of the locals call Zion National this weekend. You have always wanted to say, I played golf in Illinois in December.

ERINHILLS.COM HOME OF THE                    2017 U.S. OPEN

Come 2015 registration will begin for the 5,000 volunteers who will work Erin Hills for the 2017 U.S. Open, updates on when to register will follow at a later date.

See the Erin Hills online store for holiday gift ideas. If you don’t know what to buy your favorite golfer from Erin Hills, don’t worry. Those gift cards are available.

Erin Hills is offering Stay & Play packages with discounts from May 11-July 19 and from October 16-25. Play one round at full price and spend the night, play the next day for only $145. During the holiday weekends of May 22-25, July 3-6, September 4-7 you can play one round at full rate, spend the night at Erin Hills, and enjoy a complimentary round the next day. See Erinhills.com.

Pga.com

There are only limited tickets remaining for the 2015 PGA Championship in Whistling Straits. Weekly tickets are sold out and only daily tickets still remain. Grounds tickets are priced as follows.

Monday $30, Tuesday $30, Wednesday, $30.                     Championship rounds on Thursday $90, Friday $95, Saturday and Sunday $95.

Buy your tickets today at PGAChampionship.com. The championship will be played from August 10-16.

The Buffalo Grove Golf & Sports Dome

This Saturday is the Holiday Hit-Around from 11 AM to 2 PM at the dome. Come by and have fun and enjoy an inexpensive afternoon of golf practice, education, demonstrations, and raffles, with some food to make this a fun day.

Rates on Saturday are $12 for 30 minutes, but it’s not too late to buy a 5-Hour pass for just $85, or a Season Membership for $525. Hours on Saturday are from 7 AM to 10 PM.

NORTHBROOK BASED Kempersports management has announced that the Olivas Links Golf Course in Ventura, California, has reopened it’s driving range after undergoing a renovation. The drought tolerant 12.5 acre range includes 29 hitting stations with both artificial and natural grass tee options. See olivaslinks.com for more information.

Sequoia management that has been managing the Royal Group Golf Courses was sold to Dallas based ClubCorp. As a result, for now some 288 workers will be layed off as of Jan. 1st. John Weiss still owns the courses Royal Fox, Royal Fox in St. Charles, Klein Creek in Winfield and the Grove in Long Grove.

The First Tee Ryder Cup Golf ball

The First Tee of Greater Chicago has announced some save the dates for 2015. The Masters Viewing Party on April 9th at John Barlycorn in River North.

Luke Donald’s taste of the First Tee will be held during the BMW Championship week at Conway Farms on September 14th.

The Golf Scene’s Steve Kashul

The Golf Scene produced by Channel Fore, begins airing it’s Winter Edition this Sunday on December 14th NOW AT 5:30 PM on Comcast Sportsnet. The show will run four times in December and again multiple times in January. Time has been changed because of the Blackhawks.

Where to practice golf all winter long is theme, with visits to several of the area golf domes. Golfers will see visits to the Buffalo Grove Golf and Sports Dome, Links and Tee’s in Addison. MCQ’s Dome/OTB in Bolingbrook, and the Golf Center in Des Plaines.

Tim Clarke, President of Wilson Golf will join Steve and discuss the golf industry and all the new Wilson Golf products for 2015. Steve also visits the Gregg Tengerstrom Golf Learning center at Silver Lake CC. Tengerstrom and partner Joe Copeland are your hosts of the Tinley Park Golf Expo coming in early February of 2015.

LETS SAVE THE GOLF COURSE

The Village of Buffalo Grove is still considering the total destruction of the Buffalo Grove Golf Course. At first they were going to just take out nine holes.

Now reports are, it will be all 18 holes. What’s bad here is that the Village has one course the Arboretum, that should be the course that closes if any. It’s not popular with golfers, and wasn’t Dick Nugent’s best work.

If the Village of Buffalo Grove is going to take out the 18 holes on Lake Cook Road, they should at least promise a full renovation of the Arboretum. But in the meantime lets save BG Golf Course.

For more news stay clicked in to the Gog Blog, that will return on Friday.

                    Monday to Friday 9 AM to 10 PM, Saturday 7 AM to 10 PM, Sunday 7 AM to 8 PM, Rates start at $11 per 30 minutes on weekdays before 6 PM. $12 at other times. Student discount’s and season memberships available. 801 McHenry Rd. in Buffalo Grove, call (847)-459-2321 or see Bgparks.org. Holiday Hit Around Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM this Saturday December 13th.

The New Cleveland Black Driver

The Cleveland/Srixon Holiday Gift Guide is up and running in time for the holidays. You can visit the guide. http://clevelandgolf.com/2014_holiday_gift_guide Through the Cyber times of the holiday season look for some great deals. Follow Cleveland on social media to find out when some of the best deals are to be had.

Cleveland is proud to announce that Cleveland Golf staff player Keegan Bradley, has singed a multi-year contract extension to remain with the company. Bradley the winner of the 2011 PGA Championship, will continue to play the Srixon Z-Star XV golf ball, Srixon Woods, and Cleveland irons and Cleveland wedges. Bradley’s headwear will be a Srixon logo in front with Cleveland on the sides. He will use a Srixon glove and carry a Srixon bag.

“We are extremely pleased that Keegan has once again chosen to remain a member of our PGA Tour staff,” said Todd Harman, President of Cleveland Golf/Srixon-U.S.A. “We have the pleasure to play a part in Keegan’s journey all the way back to his college days at St. John’s, and we are thrilled to continue to be a part of the journey moving forward.”

“I’m really happy about continuing the relationship I’ve had with Cleveland/Srixon,” said Bradley. “I think 2015 is going to be a big year for me. A major part of that comes from the confidence I have in my equipment and trust in Cleveland Golf/Srixon’s really great support staff.” Bradley is the son of a PGA club professional and nephew of LPGA World Golf Hall of Fame Pat Bradley.

Cleveland known for creating top level wedges for years, has introduced the new 588 RTX 2.0 Family of Wedges. Cleveland’s Rotex face technology changed the face of spin in golf last year. But the new 588 RTX 2.0 wedges, designed with sharper grooves and a new micro-milled Rotex face pattern, that takes spin and control to the next level. There are two head designs and three grind options. The new system allows golfers to build a set of wedges to improve their game and lower their scoring.

The wedges come in multiple lofts, bounces, finishes and shafts. Prices range from $129 (steel) to $139 (graphite).

SRIXON introduced a new line woods and irons called the Z series. Count Graeme McDowell, and Bradley among the PGA Tour players sold on these clubs. The Z series has now been available for 3 weeks to the general public.

The Line starts with the Z-745 driver. The compact 430cc Srixon Z 745 driver is designed for skilled players who like to work the ball with maximum distance and penetrating ball flight.

SRIXON 545 DRIVER

The Z 545 Driver is complete with sleek and aggressive design, the Srixon Z 545 driver is designed for players that demand maximum distance and a mid-high launch in a larger,more forgiving shape.

The Z F45 is the fairway wood is a mid-size design that is engineered to maximize launch conditions from all lies.

Z H45 is the new Srixon Hybrid. It’s new look provides a more confident feel at address, and gives the player a smoother turf interaction.

Srixon Z 745 Irons will give you the ultimate in ball striking. The irons have a muscle cavity design that feature a thinner topline and more compact shape for a traditional look that will encourage workability. Z 545 Irons are distance oriented clubs. They combine hot ball flight and a slightly larger more forgiving cavity-back profile. Z U45 Utility  club will help golfers find fairway off the tee, and will allow a more aggressive approach into greens.

This fall Cleveland launched the new CG Black Line. CG Black Drivers, Black Fairway Woods, CG Black Hybrids and CG Black Irons have been created specifically for seniors, women and players with slower swing speeds. The store availability has now been in place for 30 days.

The Cleveland Classic Collection HB Insert Putters.

The new Cleveland putter line is available in the stores.

The Smart Square Blade technology brings Dual Axis Alignment to the blade putter. Two squares create parallel lines that frame the ball at address and help provide that route to the hole.

Smart Square Blade and Smart Square Mallet putters carry a MAP of $139.99. The HB Insert putters feature a copolymer face insert, for enhanced feel and sound that gives any player an edge on the greens. There are four different tour-proven designs in a charcoal gray finish. They now come with a new and improved Winn grip. The MAP is $99.99.

For more information on Cleveland/Srixon products or XXIO products. See the following websites. Clevelandgolf.com, Srixon.com and xxiousa.com.

The Gog Blog returns tomorrow.

                    Links & Tee’s, Lake St. in Addison. (630)-233-7275 Addisonparks.org. Come see what Links & Tee’s the year round golf facility has to offer.

                Golfersongolf.com is pleased to be associated with two award winning Chicago area golf domes again this winter golf season. Area golfers are fortunate to have such great indoor facilities to work on their game all winter long.

For those up in Lake County, why not stop by the Buffalo Grove Golf and Sports Dome on McHenry Road (847)-459-2321, or in Dupage County try Links and Tee’s out on Lake Avenue in Addison (630)-233-7275.

BY: GOLFERS ON GOLF, ASSISTANT EDITOR RORY SPEARS

Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove Illinois, will host several top notch events in the coming years.

First up on the calendar is the 2015 Palmer Cup, that will be held from June 12-14. The Palmer Cup named after Arnold Palmer, is an international match played Ryder Cup style between Team USA and Team Europe.

The matches are presented by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). The 20 players will be named by the GCAA in mid-April of 2015. Both admission and parking is free of charge.

The clubhouse at Rich Harvest Farms

“We would love to see a large amount of spectators on our course in June,” said Rich Harvest Farm’s Tournament Director, Vicki McGowan. “With the tournament being just six months away, both the GCAA and Rich Harvest Farms are hard at work to make the tournament a huge success. This announcement only adds to the excitement on the property.”

The European Team named former Ryder Cup player Jean Van de Velde as it’s team coach.

European Team Captain Jean Van de Velde

Vande de Velde won the French amateur championship in 1986. He then launched his professional in 1987. Vande de Velde won his first European Tour event with a win at the Roma Masters in 1993. Then in 1999 he had his famous runner-up finish at The Open Championship. While he did not walk away with the Claret Jug, his second place finish helped him become the Frenchman to qualify for the European Ryder Cup Team.

Van de Velde will serve as the European Coach for the 2016 Palmers Cup matches at Formby Golf Club on England’s Golf Coast.

“I feel very honored to have been appointed coach of the European Team of the Palmer Cup,” said Van de Velde. “It is a privilege, as well as a responsibility, to try guiding some of tomorrow’s future stars of the game. I hope that everyone involved with Team Europe will continue the successes our predecessors established. It is a big task, but we will try our utmost best, in doing so prolonging the values the values of our wonderful sport.”

Bgparks.org

Team USA has named Georgia Tech coach Bruce Heppler to be coach for the second time in the history of the Palmer Cup. Heppler was the first American coach to face a team composed of European Players when the event was held at the Cassique in 2003.

Heppler has guided his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets to the NCAA Championship every year since 1998, and helped guide the team to 11 top 8 finishes in the finals. Some of his players have included Matt Kuchar, Bryce Molder and Troy Matteson. All were named national players of the year.

Bruce Heppler, Georgia Tech and Team USA coach

Heppler was a 2013 inductee to the GCAA Hall of Fame and serves as the associations treasurer.

“I am certainly honored to be selected as part of this year’s Palmer Cup,” said Heppler. “Any time you get a chance to represent your country and peers in any form it becomes a special opportunity. I know Rich Harvest Farms is committed to having a great event for these great players. I’m looking forward to a great week for these special players.”

The United States leads the Palmer Cup series 9-8-1.

Links & Tee’s putting green.                               Addisonparks.org.

The GCAA was formed in 1958 and is located in Norman Oklahoma. The GCAA is a non-profit organization and is the professional association of the men’s collegiate golf coaches.

Through its established events and programs, the GCAA maintains a goal of increasing awareness and the status of men’s golf. There are over 750 members in the GCAA representing all three NCAA divisions as well as NAIA and NJCAAA.

The organization also represents the United States in the Toyota Junior Golf World Cup. Rich Harvest Farms is rated in the Top 100 Golf Courses in America, by Golf Digest Magazine.

Stay clicked in to the Gog Blog for more updates on the Palmer Cup as they are announced.

 The BG Golf & Sports Dome is ready for winter golf. This coming Saturday December 13th is the Holiday Hit Around from 11 AM to 2 PM. It’s a holiday themed event, it will be fun and inexpensive. See bgparks.org or call (847)-459-2321, located at 801 McHenry Road in BG. Hours M-F 9 Am-10 Pm, Sat. 7 Am-10 PM, Sun. 7 AM-8 PM. Rates For 30 minute sessions $11 Weekdays before 6 PM, after 6 $12. Weekends $12. The 5 hour pass is only $85. Season membership $525, time to tune up your game.

  BY: RORY SPEARS 

JORDAN SPIETH is on fire. The former John Deere Classic Champion is ripping up the golf course, one week after shooting an incredible final round in Australia to win there. He ran away and hid at the Hero World Challenge, to win by 10 shots. It wasn’t even close as the 18 man field played some good golf, and then got ready for the holidays.

If there was one problem it was the coverage of the Hero event. Not enough Spieth, and too much Tiger Woods. Yes Woods was back, and good for him he was finally healthy. Then all of a sudden he wasn’t. No the back didn’t go out again, but by late Friday as Woods was sailing along in last place his fever rose to a reported 102. It is no fun doing anything but laying in bed, if you have a 102 fever. A credit to Woods for gutting out Fridays round. Woods thought he was better by Saturday, but then proceeded to throw up in the first fairway. Yes you have heard that saying about a guy throwing up all over himself, well Woods really did.

Believe it or not Twitter didn’t go crazy about what happened. Perhaps showing that the college football of the day or holiday shopping was more important.

Bgparks.org

What the story of the day really was, was yet another 63 by Jordan Spieth who ended the day by sinking a bomb off a putt on 18.

Spieth wasted no-time adding to his seven shot lead after three rounds, and built it to 11 shots at one point. In the middle of the final round at one point, Woods was only 26 shots off the pace, but yet the Golf Channel with the NBC crew aboard was only to happy to keep talking about and showing Woods.

MEMEO TO NBC, keep it up and down go the ratings. Dan Hicks, Woods unofficial PR guy kept gladly talking about Woods. None of this I might add is Woods fault. With the pressure off and on a course he knows very well, Woods did hit some good shots. What was impressive was some late putts he rolled in. If Woods keeps putting that way, at some point he will deserve plenty of conversation on the TV networks.

What was impressive was Woods final round booth interview after wrapping up golf, he was talking and funny. Making a great joke about not being in Hawaii, especially the tournament or champions. Tiger, nice job, lets see more of that side from you. it would be a great way to start 2015. Woods is about to turn 39, by the time the majors start next year, he will be closing in on 40.

JORDAN SPIETH and or Rickie Fowler your time has arrived to win a major in 2015, and I will have more on that right after Jan. 1st. Spieth says his new driver, the Titleist 915 was the key. BTW golfers, you too can now order the 915. My order will go in shortly (insert happy face here).

BIG 3 Partner Len Ziehm attended day 1 of the Hero event in Florida, he has a recap that says Woods is not ready at Lenziehmongolf.com. Woods opening round of 5 over par, after four straight days of hype from the Golf Channel was a dose of reality. The Golf Channel needs to realize all the stories that they are missing out on, because of over-hyping Woods. FYI, Woods comeback No.6 so far is going about like the last five. But lets let him have a holiday off and see where he is at in a few months. maybe by Augusta Woods will give everyone something to really talk about.

Coghillgolf.com

I went to the Cog Hill this past Saturday for the holiday sale and the 2-4 building was busy. I spent some time with owner Frank Jemsek, who is on the mend from surgery but looks good. Jemsek will have some work done on his left foot from and old basketball injury after the holidays. I hope you recover as quickly this time around. Golfers keep your thoughts and prayers with Frank for another successful stint with the doctors.

David Impastato is the new director of golf at Cog Hill, while Jeff Rimschneider moves out to the teaching barn alongside of Kevin Weeks and Garrett Chaussard. It seems like a good move for all. A reminder courses 1 & 3 are open year round at Cog Hill, and next weekend’s early weather report says it could be 50. Fingers crossed.

I keep getting asked by golfers when is Cog Hill going to get a tournament again, well that’s a tough question to answer. But one event they should get is a U.S. Open Sectional Qualifier, and it seems the door is open for that if the USGA is interested.

While I welcome the Buffalo Grove Golf & Sports Dome to the Golfersongolf website, I do have to mention I have seen the signs around Buffalo Grove, Keep Buffalo Grove Green, Save the Golf Course.

MEMO TO VILLAGE OF BG, that is smart advice. Blowing up all 18 holes of the best course in Buffalo Grove along Lake-Cook Road, is not a good idea. If you want to blow up 18 holes in Buffalo Grove, the Arboretum is the course that should go. The golfers are not big fans, and it’s not Dick Nugents best work.

THE GOLF SCENE’S STEVE KASHUL tells the Gog Blog that the winter edition of the Golf Scene, with visits to the area golf domes will be out shortly. Stay clicked in for details.

SPEAKING OF DOMES, welcome back Links & Tee’s Golf Dome for the winter season of Golfersongolf, Chicago’s No.1 golf news source for the winter months.

 Links & Tee’s, on Lake Street in Addison. Call (630)-233-7275, or visit addisonparks.org. Stay clicked in, the Gog Blog returns this week. Off to finish that Christmas shopping, and hit the domes. You should too. RS.

                    The Links and Tee’s Golf Dome on Lake St. in Addison is open for the winter. Come out now and work on your game in this outstanding indoor facility. Links & Tee’s not only has double decker hitting stalls, but a putting green and another green for chipping. Take a lesson and more at this year round golf facility, Links and Tee’s. Call (630)-233-7275 or visit addisonparks.org for more information.

BY: RORY SPEARS, ASSISTANT EDITOR & SR. WRITER

THE OFF SEASON is a great time to order new equipment and practice with them, so you are ready when the time comes to take them out on the golf course.

Chicago based Wilson Golf in 2014 in honor of it’s centennial year, has introduced or reintroduced a few items to it’s product lines.

One club that has a lot of history to it, is the famed Wilson Staff 8802 Putter. The 8802 was introduced in 1962 and won a major championship shortly thereafter, as a result it became very popular. As a result it didn’t take long for other companies to create putters that were “inspired” by the 8802. But to honor the success of the putter in Wilson’s centennial year, the company has crafted a retooled version of the 8802.

THE WILSON CLASSIC 8802 PUTTER

The putter was designed with the same heel-shafted head shape, the new head weight is 335 grams to more accurately fit todays green styles, speeds, and ball construction. Unlike the original putter, the current model is milled from 304 stainless steel for ultimate feel with a double-milled facing for true roll.

The new True Temper Head Speed shaft is shapeless and fluted for outstanding feel with a flared tip design that melts into the hosel. The grip and sole on the putter commemorate Wilson’s centennial anniversary.

A red, white and golf head cover has been created to fit with the look of the club.

WILSON GOLF did not stop with just putters. The new creation is the new line of distance woods, the new D200 Superlight. These new clubs will be set for a January of 2015 release. The technology is being called “The Right Light”, and it’s set for distance players that are seeking distance and more accuracy.

 Open today Sunday from 7 AM to 8 PM, 30 minute sessions start at just $12. See bgparks.org. or call (847)-459-2321.

The Wilson D200 Drivers, with a mass of just 268 grams, is one of the fastest, lightest adjustable drivers on the market. (MAP$299.00).

D200 Fairway Woods (MAP $249.00). Maximum distance can be obtained off the tee, in the fairway or rough with the maraging steel face insert combined with the Right Light technology.

D200 Hybrids (MAP $179.99) For maximum distance with a Carpenter Custom 455 managing stainless steel face insert gives both long distance and high ball flight. In lofts of 17-19-21-23-25-27 RH, 19-21-23 in LH.

D200 Irons (MAP $599.99 Steel $699.99 Graphite) With a new innovation called Speed Sole technology. Iron sets are 4-PW with either R or S-Flex shafts in Graphie A-R-S.

FOR THOSE IN NEED OF A GOLF BAG. Wilson has introduced neXus technology for it’s cart sized staff bags, complete with plenty of space for 14 clubs and enough pockets to store all the needs a golfer might have.

There is a cart bag, not quite staff bag size, that is perfect for golfers who are “Walkers with Wheels”. Then there is the lightweight Ionix carry bag, all bags come in different colors.

For more on Wilson Golf Clubs, Bags and more. Please visit Wilson.com.

                    The Buffalo Grove Golf & Sports Dome is open for winter indoor golf. If you’re ready to keep improving and keep practicing indoors, then hit the Buffalo Grove Golf Dome especially if you live in Lake County. Upcoming special events include the Holiday Hit Around on December 13th from 11 AM to 2 PM. Raffles, food, demonstrations, and more. Open Mon-Fri 9A-10P Saturday from 7A-10P and Sunday from 7A-8P. Rates per 30 minutes start at just $11 on Weekdays with discounts for students. If you need more information see bgparks.org or call (847)-459-2321.

COG HILL HOLIDAY SALE is today from 10 AM to 4 PM in the Dubsdread Building (2-4) building. Punch and Hors D’oeuvres will be served.

If you haven’t made your golf holiday purchases yet, you can do so today at the Cog Hill Christmas/Holiday sale from 10-4 in the 2-4 building at Cog Hill in Lemont.

Some items are even upto 60% off regular price. Do you still need a place for your holiday gathering, Cog Hill can host a holiday get together for your group.

Regardless of what your looking for, clubs, balls, hats, shirts,pants or other. Stop by the Cog Hill holiday sale today. Reminder the driving range is open at Cog Hill today from 8-5PM and courses 1 & 3 are open all year round. Yes you can still play golf outside if you wish. Coghillgolf.com.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT, Cog Hill is not the only golf course that is still open for outside play.

WHITE DEER RUN in Vernon Hills is open for golf. The Pins are in. Rounds of 18 holes from 9:30 to 1 PM,nine hole rounds from 1 to 2:30. The winter golf shop is on. For more information call (847)-680-6100 or visit whitedeergolf.com.

SETTLERS HILL in Batavia is open for play $29 for golf this weekend, and 425 in the weekdays ahead. Needs gifts visit the pro shop or the online store at Settlershill.com. Steelers Hill in Batavia (630)-232-1636.

TANNA FARMS in Geneva is open. Yes they are and they have a sale on passes for next year. (630)-232-4300 make you tee time now for today.

SANTA IS COMING NEXT WEEKEND to Orchard Valley Golf Club in Aurora. Seatings for breakfast with Santa are open at 10 Am, 11 Am and 12 noon. See Santa on Sunday Dec. 14th, Adults $14.95 ages 4-13 $7.95, Age 3 and under are free. Kids under 10 get a goody bag. Reservations (630)-907-0500 Ext 3. Or Orchardvalleygolf.com.

WOW..this just in. Santa has added another golf visit this Sunday 1-4 PM at Village Links of Glen Ellyn, the open house is 12-5 and refreshments are served. Call for more information at (630)-469-8180.

 Links and Tee’s Golf Dome is open now for golf, and keeping your game sharp all winter. Right now discounts on your multi visit play cards, check at the front counter. Lake Avenue in Addison. (630)-233-7275. Open house with Steve Kashul is Jan. 31st, 2015 prizes and more. Addisonparks.org.

THE GOG BLOG IS BACK TOMORROW WITH MORE NEWS.

Links & Tee’s Golf Dome on Lake Avenue in Addison is open for the winter season, mark your calendars now for the open house on Jan. 31 2015, Steve kashul from the Golf Scene TV program will be back to MC the event again. For more information on hours and rates visit Addisonparks.org or call (630)-233-7275.

BY: RORY SPEARS, SR. WRITER &              ASSISTANT EDITOR

                                          THE FRENCH LICK RESORT SEE FRENCHLICK.COM The Pete Dye golf Course at French Lick, home of the 2015 Sr. PGA Championship Presented by KitchenAid. May 19th-24th.

Just in time for the holidays, you can purchase your tickets now. Call (800)-742-4653 from Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM EDT.

Colin Montgomerie is the defending champion. Eligible to join Montgomerie in the field are Tom Watson, Kenny Perry, Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer, Davis Love III, Jay Haas, Tom Lehman, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Hale Irwin.

With the Any Day “Flex” grounds ticket, you can use one ticket for any one day of the championship. The perfect gift for those who may need to adjust their schedule.

French Lick Resort is open all year round for stays, shows, casino visits and more. Visit French Lick Resort, or call for your 2015 golf getaway today. (888)-936-9360.

                          THE BUFFALO GROVE GOLF & SPORTS DOME 801 MCHENRY RD. IN BUFFALO GROVE. (847)-459-2321. BUY THE SEASON LONG PASS FOR ONLY $525 DOLLARS. FIVE HOUR PASSES ARE ONLY $85.00, BGPARKS.ORG.

wgaesf.com

Special holiday ticket packages are now available for the BMW Championship, that has been named the best tournament on tour for three straight years.

The BMW Championship will bring a field of the top 70 players in the Fed Ex Cup Playoffs to the Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest Sept. 14-20 in 2015. From their the top 30 finishers will move on to the Tour Championship the following week in Atlanta.

Each ticket package includes two tournament round ground tickets, two lanyards and ticket sleeves, a voucher valid for a 10% discount on merchandise at the championship. The price for each package varies by tournament round. The Thursday and Friday holiday packs are available for $90 dollars each. The Saturday and Sunday packages are valued at $100 dollars each. Upon purchase, patrons also will receive an email certificate that can be given as a gift. the holiday ticket packages are only available through Dec. 31st.

“The response from Chicagoland golf fans since out ticket launch this fall has been tremendous,” said Vince Pellegrino, WGA senior vice president. “Given the overwhelming support we have received so far and the popularity of the 2013 BMW Championship at Conway Farms, we expect these holiday packages to sell out quickly. They are a great value and the perfect gift for any golf fan.”

To order today call (847)-724-4600 or visit BMWChampionshipUSA.com. General parking and shuttle service to and from the tournament is complimentary and is included in the ticket price. Since 2007 BMW has raised more than 416 million dollars for the Evan Scholars. Zach Johnson won the championship in 2013 at Conway Farms.

                                The Buffalo Grove Golf & Sports Dome at 801 McHenry Road in Buffalo Grove, is the best place in Lake County for golfers to work on their golf games this winter. It’s Open 93 hours a week to fit your schedule. Right now there are great deals for extended hitting time, the Five Hour pass only $85, or the season pass just $525.00. For more information call (847)-459-2321 or online at bgparks.org. 1/2 Mile West of Rt. 83.

BY: RORY SPEARS, SR. WRITER & ASSISTANT EDITOR

This begins our winter session of great golf on a cold day. Over the months ahead The Gog Blog will show you some of the finest golf courses around the country. Yes, some of them will be private, but it doesn’t mean you can never play them. There are ways to get on some private courses, if you are persistent and pursue opportunities.

Today’s feature the Atlantic City Country Club was a private club for many years, but has now changed ownership a couple of times and is open to the public. The club goes back to before the turn of the century, the 1900’s that is. The club is considered a William S. Flynn Course, but a few different architects have worked on the course over the years, including most recently Tom Doak in 2000. If you enjoy the old classic courses with some great history to them, you will enjoy ACCC. Play it in between your time in the casino’s in Atlantic City. For Chicagoan’s, United now has 1-Non Stop Flight per day to Atlantic City from O’Hare.

PLAYACGOLF.com. Over 20 courses within 20 minutes of the casino’s and hotels.

Charles Fahy is the General Manager of the Atlantic City Country Club, he was kind enough to give the Gog Blog some thoughts about the club.

FAHY: “It’s an honor to work at such a historic and magnificent club. Atlantic City Country Club is a special place that every golf visiting Atlantic City should experience.”

GOG BLOG : What’s it like bringing a classic style experience to golfers who normally do not get one ?

FAHY: “There’s a lot of touch points or interactions with our staff along your golfing journey. You’re greeted by the valet that takes your clubs, your car and gets you on your way. Once you step in the door you notice the history. The dark wood, the historic pictures on the wall, plaques, trophies and more. Then you walk into our “Tap Room” awarded Top 50 19th holes by Golf Digest. You’re greeted by the hostess who can get you you’re food or beverage. Then once in the locker room, the attendant will escort you to your locker, and explain history and traditions of the club and get you pointed to the pro shop. You’ll need a souvenir with the club’s famed “bell logo” on it. from there head to your cart and the chipping green, where the term “birdie” was coined in 1903. From their go play and then enjoy the same great service after your round.”

GOG BLOG: How about the history on the term Birdie ?

FAHY: “The term was coined right here on our old 12th green, now used as a chipping green. In 1903 a group that included architect A.W. Tillinghast, it was a large group and they had a helping wind. Normally a three shot hole, one player hit two long shots and got home in two. As a result in a story told by Tillinghast to Sports Illustrated 30 years later, either Bill Smith or his brother Ab exclaimed, “That’s a bird.” A so it was agreed that going forth a score cutting par by one shot will be a bird. The green has been kept because of the historic significance.”

GOG BLOG : How about your historic bell logo, and using bells as tee markers ?

FAHY: “Back in the day the bell was rung in front of the clubhouse to let members and guests know the last trolley was leaving for Pleasantville, from there they could catch a train to Philadelphia or Atlantic City. To date we ceremonially ring the bell at the end of each day.”

The bell still rings

Gog Blog: The wind can be a factor here at anytime, how does the course play with it changing so often ?

FAHY: “We have an amazing piece of property overlooking Lakes Bay with the AC skyline in the distance. The breeze off the bay keeps it cool in the summer and adds to playing conditions. We have par 3’s that are a pitching wedge in the morning and 4 punch 4-iron in the afternoon. When the wind is blowing it can be the longest 6,500 yards golfers will ever play.”

The 14th tee box with the bell tee markers.

Gog Blog : Which holes generate the most conversation.

FAHY : “The first hole called “Yea begin” is a unique and great conversation piece as you tee off from the putting green. The 14th hole right named “Salt Marsh” has a tee complex nestled on a peninsula with water on three sides. It’s only 339 from the tips, but a great rsisk/reward hole. Some players try and bite off more than they can chew, but there is a good chance for birdie here. It’s a fun hole with a large fairway and a large green.”

The short par 3, 17th hole has a green half hidden but is fun to play.

The Par 3, 17th hole is short but one of the best short par 3’s you will find. The green is partially hidden, and has some unique undulations in it. Just hitting the green does not mean you will be using the clubs famed phrase of birdie.

The golf season is just a little longer in Atlantic City, than it is here in the Chicago area. The flight is not a long one and the golf course is not far from the hotels, or the airport.

For more information on Atlantic City Country Club see ACountryclub.com or visit PLAYACGOLF.com. To call the club directly the number is (609)-236-4400.

BY: RORY SPEARS SR. WRITER &                                ASSISTANT EDITOR

THE CENTER OF THE BUFFALO GROVE                       DOME, SWING AWAY

                           The Buffalo Grove Golf & Sports Dome, 801 McHenry Road in Buffalo Grove. For more information call (847)-459-2321. The Holiday Hit Around Sat. Dec. 13th 11A-2P. The customer appreciation day Sat. Feb. 7, 11A-2PM. Online information bgparks.org. Hours M-F 9A-10P, Sat. 7A-10P, Sun. 7A-8P. Rates 30 Minutes, Weekdays before 6P $11, After 6P $12, Weekends $12-$1 off for students of all ages. The 5-hour pass $85, Season Membership $525.

MIKE KEISER (RIGHT) WITH BILL COORE & BEN CRENSHAW at Bandon Trails

The Morning Drive was the place where the second architect was named for the new golf property in Central Wisconsin called Sand Valley.

After much thought and some careful consideration, Mike Keiser, his family and part of the Founders Group have selected the architect who will design the second course at Sand Valley.

The three finalists were, Tom Doak who worked with Keiser twice at Bandon Dunes. First on Pacific Dunes and was brought back with Jim Urbina on Old MacDonald. David McLay-Kidd the scotsman who created the original Bandon Dunes Golf Course. Canadien Rod Whitman whose work on Cabot Links is getting more recognition all the time.

With that,”The Envelope Please”, and the winner is. David McLay-Kidd. ” David identified perhaps the most interesting part of our site and has routed the golfer through it in a very exciting way,” said Keiser. “I truly am looking forward to working with him again.”

Sand Valley in August of this year, with over 600 acres cleared. This area will be part of the first course.

Sand Valley is located just over 30 minutes south of Stevens Point in Central Wisconsin, and near Lake Arrowhead.

The property was found by Craig Haltom the Sr. Vice President of Oliphant Golf, who alerted Keiser of his finding. Keiser then sent KemperSports Management President Josh Lesnick up to view the property. Lesnick spent only 30 minutes onsite before he knew he would need to tell Keiser to come look for himself.

Once on property, Keiser didn’t take long to realize the property had outstanding potential. Keiser then closed a deal with the company that owned the property to acquire the roughly 1,800 acres of land.

In December of 2013, Keiser had closed the deal and after talking with his group of investors, known as Founders. He came to the decision of hiring Ben Crenshaw and his partner Bill Coore to create the first course. When the harsh winter finally broke this spring, land clearing started and Bill Coore came in and started creating possible routings.

Sand Valley’s sandy dunes will make for a great golf atmosphere, not found in many places over the Midwest.

After Coore put several routings together, Crenshaw made a site visit to add his input. Some changes were then made to help the potential routing plan for the second golf course in addition to the clubhouse location. It will be interesting how McLay-Kidd works around the routing Crenshaw and Coore have in place.

The plan is for the first course to open in late 2016 or early in 2017, after the PGA Championship at Kohler putts out, and before the 2017 U.S. Open at Erin Hills tee’s off. Mother nature will have a lot to say about this, but the question will be, can the second course open late in 2017 or into 2018. But it’s more likely to be summer of 2018 before the Kidd course is ready to play.

Craig Haltom stands on what’s likely to be the first hole ever played by golfers who visit Sand Valley, on the Crenshaw & Coore design.

What will be the end product at Sand Valley in terms of the amount of courses is still unknown, Keiser will have to play that by ear and see what kinds of response he gets to courses 1 & 2.

There is some calling from members of the golf media, and loyal fans of other Keiser courses, for Keiser to bring an architect that he has not used before. While it sounds like an interesting concept, others are quick to say it’s hard to move away from what works.

What has worked at places like Bandon Dunes, is the ability to tell that story walking. In Oregon you walk because there are no carts, in Wisconsin will cart golf be an option. At this time, even Keiser might not know the answer.

USGA Executive Director Mike Davis has now been to the property three times, and admits he is very impressed by the site. Davis calls Keiser a visionary, and if that magic vision Keiser has shown in the past works again at Sand Valley. There will be a need for more courses, 18 holes types, a par 3 course, a junior course and a creative practice area. One can bet that a USGA Championship of some sort, might not be far behind.

USGA Executive Director Mike Davis talks about Sand Valley and Mike Keiser.

Architect David McLay-Kidd explains his Sand Valley routing on the Golf Channel.

There will be a need for onsite housing and a theme restaurant or two. Instead of an Irish Pub like at Bandon Dunes, it’s likely to be a Midwest or Wisconsin style grill. But regardless of what the theme is, golfers are already sensing Sand Valley will be something special.

Stay clicked in for more news on Sand Valley as it happens.

BY: RORY SPEARS SR. WRITER &                              ASSISTANT EDITOR

CDGA.ORG

The Chicago District Golf Association has announced it’s tournament schedule for 2015. As the CDGA heads into it’s second century, it should be an exciting year.

“We have a great schedule lined up for 2015, including some changes and new events,” said director of rules & competitions Nick Scillia. “We would like to thank all the clubs that are hosting events, and we are looking forward to a great year.”

The 96th CDGA Amateur Championship returns to the Knollwood Club in Lake Forest for the ninth time, June 22-25. Knollwood, which has hosted championships like the U.S. Amateur and the U.S. Mid-Amateur championships, last hosted the CDGA Am in 2001, when former PGA Tour pro and Illinois player Joe Affrunti won his second of-back-to back titles.

801 McHenry Road Buffalo Grove                            (847)-459-2321

The 1924 design was originally done by Harry Colt and Charles Alison. It was renovated by Keith Foster in 2009 and 2010. The golf course can now play at over 7,200 yards to test the area’s top players.

“We’re excited to be coming back to Knollwood,” Scillia said. “It’s a classic course, and they have lengthened and updated some holes since the last time they hosted the championship. It will be fun to see the District’s best players compete at such a great course.”

The 85th Illinois State Amateur will tee off at a new location in 2015, Panther Creek Country Club in Springfield. The course was designed by Hale Irwin and first opened for play in 1992, it served as the course for the area’s LPGA tour stop for 5 years. It is the sixth time the state amateur has been in the town of the state capitol.

“Panther Creek is a great tournament course,” Scillia said. “In addition to the LPGA event, it has hosted many local city events, it will be a good test for the top golfers in the state.”

From the upper deck of the Buffalo               Grove Golf & Sports Dome

The CDGA Mid-Amateur event will have a format change in 2015. It will be played at Bowes Creek in Elgin from May 18th to May 20th. It will now be a match play championship in order to align with the other CDGA Championships.

Another change includes having the 14th CDGA Senior Amateur move from it’s traditional May dates, to the end of July 27-30 at the merit Club in Libertyville.

The biggest change will be the Better Ball of Pairs Series. In 2015 there will be a Better Ball Championship with four qualifiers and a Senior Better Ball Championship with two qualifiers.

The CDGA will help conduct three qualifiers for the U.S. Amateur, which will be played at Olympia Fields in August. They will be held July 6th at Ruth Lake, July 7th at Weibring Golf Club, July 9th at the Royal Country Club of Long Grove.

For more information on the CDGA 2015 tournament schedule, please visit online CDGA.org/tournaments. Questions email Scillia at nscillia@cdga.org.

The first event will be April 23rd at Coyote Creek in Bartonville, with a qualifier for the CDGA Mid-Amateur Championship.