MISTWOOD FITTING DEPARTMENT-(L) Matt Carter-(R) Eric Russell-Middle Matt Carter works a Callaway Paradym fitting. Spring golf is coming soon, get your clubs repaired, regripped, or get fitted for new sticks. Now is the time to get ready for the season ahead. Mistwoodgolfdome.com (630)-739-7600 or soon it’s Mistwoodgc.com.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Tee it up on No.8-the newly rebranded Course No.8 tees.

PINEHURST GIVES CENTENNIAL 8- A TUNE UP.

The famed Pinehurst Resort-The Home of American Golf, has tuned up it’s No.8 golf course. Centennial has never looked so good.

The course that opened in 1996, had not been touched in 25 years and was due for some work.

But everything that’s been done, or is getting done to the facility, is not just getting done on the golf course.

Because most recently a recent zoning approval, gives the Pinehurst Resort a chance to build some cottages on the golf course.

Pinehurst President Tom Pashley has spoke about creating rooms that have views of golf, when one looks out the window. Because that’s something the resort has not had in the past. That will change.

  PINEHURST NO. 8 the old entrance (L). PINEHURST NO.8 a new rebranded look (R).

What changed in a hurry was the golf course. No.8 was closed down in spring of 2022, around Memorial Day. The goal was to have No.8 back up and running by Labor Day weekend. Which was about 100 days. Credit Pinehurst for getting it done.

The new grass and reseeded range, starts the golfer in the right direction, before they hit the first tee box.

While the restoration work wasn’t a major overhaul, the course needed enough upgrades to get it playing faster and firmer.

Which is just the way design architect Tom Fazio wanted it to play.

So improvements include, new TifEagle greens. Brand new sand in the bunkers. Better drainage and irrigation in the re-grassed fairways. Tree removal or trimming was done, to open up and restore views around the golf course, that existed in the early days of the courses original opening.

The branded look, includes a new No.8 logo. With the new No.8 on the entrance sign and the pin flags. There is no doubt which Pinehurst course you are playing.

The Par 3-8th hole (L) has some carry over a ravine of wetlands. (R) The Par-3 15th green front, with the par-4 16th hole in the background.

BUT ALL THE WORK was not done on the golf course. Because Course No.8 golfers will enjoy the list of improvements to the clubhouse.

The dining area is being recreated-the new bar looking out on the 18th hole (L), with the newly redone locker room (R). The clubhouse pro shop has been restocked with new merchandise, carrying the rebranded No.8 logo.

There are no dates on when the cottages will get built and opened for over night stays. But the clubhouse work will be finished shortly and will be fully reopened this spring.

Course No.8 has five sets of tees, with back tees playing at 7,099 yards. The front tees top out at 5,153 yards.

But for more information on rates, and making a tee time at Pinehurst No.8, please visit Pinehurst.com.

  THE COLD IS STILL HERE. But not for much longer. So be ready for outdoor golf season. Because you can tune up inside at the Schaumburg Golf Club, on all three simulators. Chandlers Chophouse is open-so is the pro shop. Call (847)-885-9000.

TTHE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect at LinkedIn and Facebook. Swinging in the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook. Mistwoodgolfdome.com (630)-739-7600.

SO AFTER A CRAZY WEEKEND OF HOOPS!

I bring you March Sadness. Because with golf courses on the verge of opening, there was a setback this weekend.

Because I didn’t expect on Saturday morning to wake up to a temperature of 12. But then the wind chill was even worse, below zero at O’Hare Field.

So then the door buzzer rings on Saturday morning, you open the door and a dusting of snow is coming down. I’m just glad it really didn’t stick. Because the almost 5 inches of snow I got just over a week ago, is finally gone.

Sunday morning the temperature was 22 when I got up, not much better. Then the high temperature yesterday, was only 37. So what do you do. Stay inside and watch NCAA hoops and the Valspar Championship.

THERE WAS GOOD NEWS for Arlington Heights PGA Tour player Doug Ghim, he made a cut at Valspar, along with Wheaton’s Kevin Streelman. Both made just over $50,000 for their efforts on the golf course. But the news was not as good for Northbrook’s Nick Hardy who missed another cut, by only 1 shot. Luke Donald the Northwestern alum missed by a lot more. All of our locals have missed two many cuts this year. Here is hoping that changes.

VALSPAR IS SUCH a good tournament to watch, the people there do a wonderful job wrapping up the Florida Swing. The Copperhead course is not a birdie-fest. Sam Burns who was trying for the three-peat in the win column-had a great final round of 5 under 66. Burns however only finished in 6th place.

OUR LEN ZIEHM has a great story coming up in the Daily Herald this week, on how two-time Illinois Open champion David Cook, is the caddie for Valspar runner-up Adam Schenk. Schenk’s 40 foot par saver to earn a spot in the playoff yesterday hit the hole but didn’t fall in the cup.

AS WE MOVE towards golf season, the battle between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf is still simmering. Last Friday there were reports-again-that Greg Norman was on his way out the door at LIV Golf. But by Saturday those phony reports were again proven false.

SO WHO-keeps starting these false rumors about Norman. But better yet-who is dumb enough to keep falling for the bad gossip, and even dumber to keep writing that stuff. What is interesting is how much online social media comments, are giving LIV their props for the coverage. Plus they ask the fans what they would like to see more of during the broadcast.

ANYTHING WOULD BE BETTER than listening to Dan Hicks on NBC keep trying to mention Tiger Woods during every broadcast, even when Woods isn’t playing. Does NBC pay Hicks by the amount of times he says Woods name.

A FEW interesting things got posted online over the weekend. SO IS IT TRUE that during the rain delay at The Players Championship, NBC showed the 2019 Rory McIlroy win. Because the 2022 edition had LIV players finishing 1-2-3. Did LIV golfer Pat Perez with borrowed clubs, really beat Woods by 9 shots at the 1993 USGA Junior. IF SO why don’t we ever see footage of that.

WORD IS that the PGA Tour has 27 corporate partners that do over 40 Billion-that’s Billion dollars a year, of business with Saudi Arabia. Nobody at the tour office seems all to concerned about that.

NEXT ON THE TEE is the Match Play Championship this week in Austin Texas. But enjoy it if you like match play. Because sadly, it’s the final year for the event.

WORD IS THE 2024 Senior LPGA Championship is headed for Sultans Run Golf Couse in Indiana, 35 minutes from the French Lick Resort. I have played Sultans Run and it’s a good golf course, done by Pete Dye disciple Tim Liddy.

UPCOMING THIS WEEK- I will wrap up the stories from the winter golf trip. Which includes the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando Florida. At weeks end I will give out my picks and awards for best products at the show. From the property visit side, our features on both the work done on Pinehurst No.8. Then on the amazing job done at the Bonita Bay Club’s Cypress golf course-by Tom Marzoff from Tom Fazio Golf design.

The Gog Blog returns on Tuesday. RS

THE SNOW AND COLD ARE STILL HERE-so it’s time for you to get to Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Rd. Three simulator bays are open daily, and the pro shop is filling up with summer needs. So visit Schaumburggolf.com or (847)-885-9000.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

In the Mistwood Golf Dome with the new Callaway Paradym Driver.

THE SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME has some catching up to do, this news column will be on of our longest ever. RS

IN THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME starting on Thursday with the start of March Madness, Sauce madness returns.

The dome is located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook, (630)-739-7600. So bring your clubs and bring your appetite.

MISTWOOD GOLF CLUB on Renwick Road in Romeoville is announcing that registration is open for the April 8th-Pick Your Pin Scramble. (815)-254-3333 or visit Mistwoodgc.com.

OUR GOLFERS ON GOLF PARTNER LEN ZIEHM has written recent stories about what’s happening with the Mission Inn. Located in Howey-In-The-Hills Florida, the resort has undergone an ownership change. Ziehm breaks down some planned improvements. While other columns by Len include the Ryder Cup Captains, and PGA Champions Tour player Bernhard Langer. Because Recently Langer tied Hale Irwin’s record for most wins on the 50 & over tour. See Lenziehmongolf.com.

BY DAY or NIGHT-The lights are on at the Cog Hill practice Center in Palos Park.

COG HILL HAS plenty going on.

Callaway Fitting day on Wednesday March 22nd, Mizuno Fitting Day on Friday March 24th.

So there are golf ball deals in the pro shop on major brands. Because if you buy three dozen, you can get a 4th dozen for Free. But available on certain dates only.

SO HAVE YOU booked where you Easter brunch is going to be. Because if not it’s not too late to enjoy Easter dining at Cog Hill on Sunday April 9th from 10 Am to 3 pm. So for details on all these Cog Hill events, including golf scrambles and more. See Coghillgolf.com or (866)-264-4455.

PINE MEADOW GOLF CLUB in Mundelein (Part of Jemsek Golf) has opened for the season. Golf events and scrambles/fitting days are coming up.But for more information see Pinemeadowgc.com or call the pro shop at (847)-566-4653 (golf).

CRYSTAL WANG has been named B1G Ten Women’s Golfer of the Week, by the conference. Wang a graduate student at U of I, had a fifth place finish at the Briar’s Creek Invitational.

THE ILLINI MEN finished 4th at the NIT Tournament at the Omni Tucson golf course. Matthis Besard and Jackson Buchanan led the way for Illinois. The Illini moved up from fourth place to first place, briefly in the final round. But over-par scores on the final two holes dropped the Illini back to fourth place. Coach Mike Small said,” I like the way we played most of the day, but we didn’t finish the tournament the way we would like to.”

LAST MONTH the Illini men’s team rallied from 10 shots behind in the final round, to win the Southern Highlands Collegiate in Las Vegas. Senior Adrien Dumont de Chassart lead the comeback with a 5 under par 67. Tommy Kuhl’s final round 6 under par 65, helped Illinois pull away to win the Hal Williams Collegiate in Mobile Alabama.

ILLINI Senior Tommy Kuhl has been named to the Fred Haskins Award Watch list, that includes 15 of the top NCAA golfers in the country.

GOLF360TV is back-coming in June. ING award winners Dave Lockhart (L) and Patrick Mannelly are back for another season.

GOLF360TV is back.

Golf 360 TV has announced that they are returning for another season, on NBC Sports Chicago.

Dates and times are TBA.

Along with Dave (Links Lager) Lockhart, and former Chicago Bear Patrick Mannelly, will co-host and social media influencer Katie Kearney.

The first show in June, will include a feature on the Klein creek Golf Club in Winfield.

So for more information on Golf360TV visit Linksvideo.net/golf360tv.

THE GREENWAY TAP at the Preserve of Oak Meadows was recently honored with a “Diners Choice” award for Top-10 restaurants in the Chicago area. But the golf course is not yet open for the 2023 golf season but will be soon. Visit Dupagegolf.com for information on opening day for all the DuPage Golf courses. #MapleMeadows #Greenmeadows

Welcome to True Blue Golf Club-Top 100 resort course. Pawleys Island SC. Home of the 2023 Girls Short Par 4 Championship Sept. 16-17. High school teams from North and South Carolina will compete.

Golfers are now racing toward one of the new hot destinations in Florida.

Daytona Beach Florida, near the famed Daytona Motor Speedway.

The new Max Beach Resort is open and offering Luxury accommodations with rooms of up to 1,000 square feet.

So do you choices on where to play golf. Because of you do, there are over 20 courses in the area to pick from. But there is even more to do, once your off the golf course for the day. So for more information, visit Daytonabeachgolf.com or Maxbeach.com.

PLAYGOLFMYRTLEBEACH.COM has announced a record breaking year for golf in 2022, in the Myrtle Beach South Carolina area. Close to 2.5 million rounds of golf were played at the Myrtle Beach golf courses. Visit Myrtle Beach on your next golf trip.

CJ checks the Sam Putt Lab in advance of a putter fitting at the Club Champion Willowbrook Store.

WILLOWBROOK BASED

Club Champion Golf the largest golf fitting chain in America, with 18 new stores opened in 2022.

Three new openings have begun in Destin and Fort Myers Florida. The third opening is in Westlake Ohio.

Reached several new milestones in 2022.

Club Champion completed over 94,000 fittings.

The lines of clubs that Club Champion can now fit golfers into, has increased again in 2022. So currently right now through the end of the month, you can get a free fitting with an equipment purchase of $499 or more (full bag fittings are excluded in this offer). For more information see Clubchampiongolf.com. (offer for returning Club Champion customers only).

POWER TEE has announced that long time legendary instructor Rick Smith has signed with the company as a brand ambassador. Smith is currently operating two teaching facilities. The Rick Smith Performance Center at Trump Doral in Miami Florida, and the Rick Smith Golf Academy at Oakland University in Rochester Michigan. For more details see Powertee.com.

IPGA Birdies for Charity.

THE ILLINOIS PGA SECTION membership set a record amount raised in the 2022 Birdies for Charity event, on the Tuesday after Labor Day. The total of $608,000 was 208,000 more than the previous record set in 2019. 48 IPGA Section Professional took part in the event-that returned to the River Forest Country Club in Elmhurst, after a 1 year absence from River Forest. Because the club was having upgrades done to the golf course. So for more information on BFC see IPGA.com.

Boyne Resorts Senior Vice President of Golf Operations, Bernie Friedrich.

BOYNE GOLF RESORT’S Bernie Friedrich named 2023 PGA of America Golf Executive of the Year.

The honor recognizes outstanding services in an executive management position. Those services include leadership, vision, courage, moral character and a substantial record of service to the association and game of golf.

Friedrich has been a PGA member for almost 40 years, he has worked for Boyne since 1976.

Friedrich has been honored by the PGA of America over 10 times and in 2019 was inducted into the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame. But for more information visit Boynegolf.com.

A new Top Golf in Memphis Tennessee is under construction.

DALLAS BASED TOP GOLF has announced more new locations are getting built in southern states.

In addition to the previous announced location in Memphis Tennessee, Top Golf has announced two more locations.

The first location is in Mobile Alabama, with the second location in Lafayette Louisiana. So for more information on all three new Top Golf locations, see Topgolf.com.

TITLEIST GOLF has released a 4-part documentary mini-series called We-Go-Farther, which covers the increase in speed by Titleist Drivers and the TSR series of clubs. So to view this 4-part series, see the Titleist YouTube channel or visit Titleist.com-We-Go-Farther.

The Chicago District Golf Association CDGA.org

The CDGA has announced registration is underway for 2023 championships.

2023 marks the 110th year for Chicago District Golf Association competitions to be held.

The 92nd Illinois State Amateur will be played from July 18-20 at the Bloomington Country Club.

From June 26-29 the 102nd CDGA Amateur will be played at the Lake Shore Country Club in Glencoe.

Social competitions are now also open for registration, visit CDGA.org for information on all CDGA competitions.

SuperStroke putter Grips with technology advancements.

Wixom Michigan based SuperStroke has released a new Multi-Zone Texturing and Reimagined Spyne line of grips.

This is SuperStrokes first new hero line in three years.

But the new Zernergy line replaces the mega-popular Traxion line that has seen numerous wins on multiple professional tours, including majors championships since it’s original launch.

The new line has a soft but tacky outer layer for a better grip, with a firm rubber inner core for crucial stability. SuperStroke grips are now available to retailers. So you can learn more at SuperStrokeUSA.com.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out returns tomorrow. RS

ReseacHERS FIGHT CANCER Golf Classic-Monday August 21-On Medinah’s Course #1. Sign-up today to golf or sponsor, Researchersgolfclassic.org. THE Mistwood Golf Dome is open until 10 Pm today and everyday. So did you wake up to a 13 degree temperature, with a morning of a snow dusting. SO it’s time to take your clubs and your appetite to the dome. See Mistwoodgolfdome.com Rt. 53 Bolingbrook (630)-739-7600.

THE SITE OF THE OLD PIT COURSE is a busy place these days. Located 4 miles from the main clubhouse at the Pinehurst Resort, The Pit property is buzzing again after being closed for over a decade. But with Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw having a full schedule, architect Tom Doak (R) got the call to build the tenth course at Pinehurst.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIN and Facebook.

Angela Moser is Tom Doak’s lead associate on the Pinehurst #10 project.

THE OLD PIT COURSE IS BUZZING.

Who would have thought that. After years of the golf course being closed. Fairways, greens and bunkers now grown over.

IT’s BEEN a decade since the Pinehurst Resort brought in golf architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, to walk the land and give the resort a new routing for the property.

SINCE the presentation of the routing, the Pit golf course has just sat there, waiting for something to happen. For years Coore and Crenshaw have been tugging at the sleeve of Pinehurst owner Bob Dedman Jr. and Pinehurst Resort President Tom Pashley, to get the project rolling.

But with the Covid-19 pandemic growing the demand for golf, Pinehurst finally decided it was ready to build the 10th course. So last year Pinehurst reached out Coore and Crenshaw and said “let’s go”. But the problem was that Coore and Crenshaw weren’t ready to go. Because like many top golf architecture firms these days, they are busy. Really busy.

The tree removal phase is well underway on the land of the former Pit Course, in addition to adjoining land now owned by the Pinehurst Resort.

So with a reputation of playing well in the sand, top course designer Tom Doak got the call from Pinehurst.

Much to the relief of Pinehurst, Doak had a window to do the project. But Doak made it clear, he needed the permits and all in place to start by early 2023.

So when everything was in place, work got started.

Doak sent his top associate designer for the project Angela Moser out on site with a crew to get the clearing started. Doak himself arrived right after the Super Bowl wrapped up. So now, it’s full speed ahead.

Bulldozer’s and other heavy equipment are hard at work, clearing and shaping the ground of the new course routing.

Pinehurst gave Doak the option to take any land he needed at the site, even if it crossed paths with what Coore and Crenshaw had previously staked out. But for the most part, Doak liked land not already chosen by Coore and Crenshaw. So for now, it appears there will be little, or no cross-over between the two routings.

PARTS OF the former Pit Course now still remain, but are being cleared away for the new routing by Doak.

But there is good news for fans of Coore and Crenshaw courses. The Doak course will not be the only course on this site. Because once Coore and Crenshaw have time on their schedule, the next 18 holes gets built (time table-TBD). Along with villas for overnight stays, and likely another large putting green and possible par-3 course.

So Pinehurst will now create another separate area for golf and more, a short distance from where the main resort stands. Which could fully remain open for play and stay. Even during times the resort is hosting a major USGA championship, like a U.S. Open.

The Old Pit Course clubhouse still stands-for now (L). (R) From the site of a proposed tee box, the elevation change back to a previous hole stands out. The tenth course has places where elevation change can be as much as 65 feet, according to Doak.

When golfers who played the original golf course return to the site, they will likely enjoy what has evolved from a course once called “The Pit”. The site of the tenth course has unlimited potential. So it will be interesting to see what becomes of it. Pinehurst is hoping the Doak Course will be open and ready for play by the time the 2024 U.S. Open comes to town. Doak and his team feel they can make the deadline, Pinehurst expects that they will.

Follow the progress of the building of the “Tenth Course at Pinehurst” both here, and at Pinehurst.com. Pinehurst will host the U.S. Open in June of 2024.

FITTING TIME- or maybe just club repair as outdoor golf season is almost here. See Matt Carter and Eric Russell at the Mistwood Golf Dome. IT’s time to get a grip or 14 on your clubs, don’t let your clubs fly away. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

GOLFHOUSE PINEHURST BY THE USGA is under construction at the entrance to the main clubhouse at the Pinehurst Resort and Country Club, Pinehurst North Carolina.

SO DURING A WEEK where the USGA speaks about rolling back the golf ball, they continue to roll forward with the building of their latest buildings in the Pinehurst area.

What many people don’t know, is that the United States Golf Association (USGA) which has offices in the downtown Pinehurst area, is adding even more out at the Pinehurst Resort.

Many visitors to Pinehurst walk right past the current USGA offices, and never notice them. But even better is that people eat lunch downstairs from the USGA, and still don’t notice them. OKAY-Need a hint! they are upstairs from the Pinehurst Deli, in the middle of downtown. Do read the tenant list the next time you stop for lunch in the deli, it’s on the wall by the stairs that head up to the second floor.

Workers continue to build the new USGA Golf House at Pinehurst-The home of American Golf.

The two buildings will house the USGA-museum, looking at a history of golf. But there will be a testing center will be on site. So if your looking forward to watching the engineers test golf balls to stay within limits. If needed to cut back the flight of the ball (should this rule pass and change). So see the approval of RFB’s (restricted flight balls) you could be able to do so.

Because it will take time to finish the project, then transfer parts of the USGA operation from New Jersey. Golf House Pinehurst will not open until 2024. Between the two buildings, there will be a walkway bridge over an open area for guests on the ground level.

Workers work on the new USGA campus at Pinehurst.

WITH PINEHURST now being an anchor location for a variety of USGA Championships going forward for almost 50 years. One can bet there will be a fair amount of history from those championships on display in the USGA-Pinehurst museum.

ON A SEPERATE NOTE-the World Golf Hall of Fame is returning to Pinehurst and will be part of the new USGA Golf House Campus. The WGHOF was formerly in Pinehurst, behind the 4th green of the Pinehurst No.2 golf course. That building was torn down after the hall of fame was moved to Jacksonville Florida. But it’s now returning to Pinehurst after 25 years.

For more information on what part of the USGA golf operation will move to the Pinehurst campus. Plus details on important dates going forward towards the grand opening, and drawings with planed views. Please visit USGA.org.

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB 401 North Roselle Road-three simulators are open, and they include the indoor version of the Schaumburg Golf Club. The pro shop is filling with your golf needs for the season ahead. Book your time at SchaumburgGolf.com or call the pro shop at (847)-855-9000. Get a lesson or club fitting-try Chandlers Chophouse.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

The U.S. Flag flies over the 18th green and first tee box of Medinah’s #3 golf course, that’s started under going change once more.

ONE MORE TIME-FOR NO. 3

When the 1975 U.S. Open was played at Medinah-it took until Monday to decide a winner.

Finally Lou Graham defeated John Mahaffey by two strokes to win the title. But when the U.S. Open returned 15 years later in 1990, the golf course was different, even better said onlookers.

The only thing that stayed the same was that another Monday playoff was needed. This time it took extra holes on Monday for Hale Irwin to complete his rally to defeat golf journeyman Mike Donald.

In between the two U.S. Open’s was the 1988 U.S. Senior Open, once again it took a Monday playoff to settle the championship. Gary Player defeated Bob Charles to capture the title, take home the winners check and the trophy. To win big at Medinah, it was taking champions an extra day and extra holes to be crowned a champion. One could say that players didn’t win a championship on No.3-they earned it.

The drain pipes are piled up behind the 18th green.

But by the time the 1999 and 2006 PGA Championship’s arrived, Course No.3 had changed once more.

Rees Jones came in and tinkered with things, by 1999 and in 2006 the feeling was by most that No.3 was once more better than it was in 1990. The 18th green had been raised, surrounded by deep bunkers. The green that Irwin made his famous long putt on during Round 4 of the 1990 U.S. Open-was now gone. But the drama continued.

But before the 2012 Ryder Cup came to Medinah, Jones returned again. Jones removed more trees and created a risk-reward pond by the short par 4-15th green.

Then in 2019-the PGA arrived as the BMW Championship drove into town. Course No.3 didn’t look like it did in 2012. Because the bunkers had been redone, the sand in those bunkers and was now white-sand. Medinah 3 was prepped for a FedEx Cup Playoff event, and the top 70 players on the PGA Tour were expected to be in for a challenge. A challenge that never developed.

The 18th tee box sits alone in front of the water, while on the other banks trees are gone from around the 17th tee box.

But there were plenty of good reasons for that. Because conditions were perfect that week for low scoring, very low scoring. There was some lift-clean and place rounds, and the wind was non-existent that week. The temperatures were perfect, and the golf ball flew as the pro’s bombed away.

Current PGA Champion Justin Thomas won that week in 2019, Thomas shot 25 under par and holed an eagle shot from the fairway. Thomas seemed to make every putt he had over the four rounds. During championship week, fans and golf media wondered how long it would take Medinah to respond to a 25 under par winner on Course No.3. The answer was-not very long. A committee was formed in under 60 days after the BMW drove off, and the discussions about a new look No.3 started.

Trees have been cleaned out left and right of the landing area on the par 5, 14th hole.

The process wasn’t under way for very long, when the Covid-19 pandemic arrived. So interviews with various golf architects and their firms, ended up on Zoom links, and through electronic ways of communication.

Through the process one thing that stood out to the committee, was how the Australian firm of OCM was able to make it’s online presentation. The story goes that only the “O” in OCM, Geoff Ogilvy the 2006 U.S. Open Champion, had ever been to Medinah, and that was for the 2006 PGA Championship. 14 years before his design firm was looking for another project and one of the first projects it would do in the United States. So after many meetings and much debate-OCM landed the Medinah Course No.3 project.

The master plan submitted by OCM may look a bit radical to some outsiders, and maybe to some of the clubs membership. But if history is any record to Course No.3’s growth and evolvement over the years. One can only believe that latest round of improvements, will bring another exciting chapter to Course No.3’s championship legacy. Not mention rounds of fun for the clubs members and their guests.

The banks around Medinah’s back nine par-3 holes.

During the 2022 BMW Championship Golfers on Golf spoke with Thomas regarding the current renovation. “I hope Medinah isn’t blowing up Course No.3 because of what I shot that week,” said Thomas. “Conditions were perfect, and when you have the top players in the world playing in those conditions. They will tear apart any golf course, even Course No.3 at Medinah. Medinah is a great golf course and I’ll be anxious to see how it turns out.” Thomas added he hopes to be part of Team USA, when the team comes to Medinah for the Presidents Cup in September of 2026.

The Medinah No.3 master plan by OCM.

OCM is headed up by Ogilvy, and partners Ashley Mead and Michael Cocking. Their resume of work from around the world is growing, with some great results.

ResearcHERS Charity Golf Classic. August 21, 2023. Played on Medinah No.1. Sign up at Researchersgolfclassic.org

While work has started on Medinah No.3, it’s far from being done. Because much of it remains for the spring-summer and fall months ahead this year.

Currently the planed reopening date for golf, is late summer or early fall of 2024.

The Medinah membership overwhelmingly approved the new renovations to it’s classic, historic golf course, allowing the course to continue to evolve. When the President’s Cup arrives, it will interesting to see how Course No.3’s next chapter of history is plays out, and how more of the world’s best players think the changes have improved Medinah’s famed No.3 golf course. But here’s hoping the President’s Cup ends up with an exciting finish-on Sunday.

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has all three simulators open for tee times. So come play the Schaumburg Golf Club’s indoor version OF-The Schaumburg Golf Club. Chandlers Chop House is open and the pro shop is filling with everything you need for the season ahead. Schaumburggolf.com or call the shop at 401 North Roselle Rd. (847)-885-9000.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

BOMBS AWAY-here comes the USGA and the R & A. Roll back the ball-is it the answer.

THE BALL or the GOLF COURSE.

Which goes longer. As the golf ball companies try and make the golf ball go further, the golf course architects say they have to build the courses longer.

So with that, the battle goes on and on, and back and forth.

What’s not clear is if the governing bodies are tired of watching players hit, Driver-7-Iron into 575-yard par 5’s. But maybe the issue is 20 under par scores at courses like TPC Sawgrass or U.S. Open venues.

USGA CEO Michael Whan and R & A CEO Martin Slumbers announced the two organizations are working together, while still listening to feedback from within the industry. Which it appears both organizations will do for several months. So no immediate action will be taken. There is currently no time table to install any roll back of the distance the golf ball could fly.

So please do remember, this is for “upper level” event only. These possible new restrictions would not affect normal play by amateur golfers. But the question remains-where would the cut off be. Could Illinois based golf organizations such as the Chicago District Golf Associations (CDGA), the Illinois PGA (IPGA) and the Western Golf Association (WGA) bring these rule changes to their events. It’s said that some of the longest hitters in golf, are college aged players, most of them still being players with amateur status.

“Golf is an aspirational sport, and we believe at it’s very best when equipment and playing regulations are unified. Golf’s health an vibrancy are at historically high levels,” said David Maher, President and CEO, of Acushnet Company (Titleist). “As we see it, existing golf ball regulations for Overall Distance and initial Velocity are highly effective. During the past two decades, PGA Tour average course playing length has increased by less than 100 yards. While scoring average has remained virtually flat. Average PGA Tour clubhead speed of 114.6 mph in 2022, was well below the 120 mph and proposed 127 mph testing conditions. The proposal of golf ball bifurcation is in many respects a solution in search of a problem.”

THE RESPONSE SO FAR-from the PGA of America is that they are still looking for more information. But don’t seem on board with the proposal so far. The PGA Tour has been quiet, with no official statement. The LPGA does not feel that distance has become a problem so far on it’s tour.

BRIDGESTONE GOLF-makers of the Bridgestone Golf ball have basically sided with the comments made by Titleist-Acushnet. CALLAWAY GOLF: offered no comment at this time, until they study the proposal further.

PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS both Justin Thomas on the PGA Tour and Bryson DeChambeau on the LIV Golf Tour both came out against changes that would hinder golf ball flight. Thomas speaking at the Valspar Championship at the Innisbrook Resort just North of Tampa. LIV Golf is playing out in Tucson Arizona.

ONE question remaining is who would make the golf ball. Because current major golf ball companies would have to spend money building a ball they could not sell. Why waste R&D time building a ball they would give free to their tour players.

So might the USGA and the R&A have to contract a company to make the new ball. So in the end, somebody is going to a get a bill for producing a ball they don’t want to make, and nobody is going to buy.

IT’S BEEN SUGGESTED that the golf ball companies “say no.” Then refuse to make any restricted ball. So if players can’t get a RFB (restricted flight ball) how could a tournament be played, unless the USGA and R&A gave the players the golf balls at the start of tournament week. Fan polls today-showed 70% of golf fans don’t want the players restricted.

***FROM RORY SPEARS** My view is that limiting the flight of a golf ball some 10-15 only forces the pro’s or top amateurs to hit one more club. Not really a big deal. Then the cost of building a new golf ball for limited use in certain events, is not worth the start up costs.

But it would be good to see the USGA and R&A produce a nice logoed championship golf ball, with the players favorite number on the ball. So here’s six dozen for the week, go play. It would be funny or not, to see local muni’s run a 4-man restricted flight ball scramble.

THE DEBATE here is first starting-let’s see how long it runs-RS.

THE MISTWOOD GOLF FITTING TEAM- Eric Russell (L) and Matt Carter (R) have the Mistwood club fitting operation ranked Top 100 in the country by a national publication. So with spring approaching now it’s time to get your clubs ready. New clubs, club repair, new grips. See Eric and Matt and visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook. Swinging a Paradym Iron in the Mistwood Golf Dome.

CALLAWAY vs CALLAWAY

When the golf equipment keeps getting better, there is reason to keep upgrading what’s in your bag.

***Last Week I underwent a club testing at the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook-under the eye of Mistwood fitter Matt Carter. One of my golf group Ryan Krebs of Chicago joined me in the fitting session, to under-go his own fitting of the Callaway Paradym golf clubs.

The story below is the results of what we found during that session, in the Mistwood Golf Dome located on Rt 53 in Bolingbrook.

(L) Matt Carter breaks down the numbers for me. (R) Ryan Krebs tests a new Callaway Paradym club.

In 2022 I got new clubs over the course of the year. I upgraded from my Callaway Mavericks, to the new Callaway Rogue ST’s. The process started with the Rogue ST driver and irons in March. Then I added Rogue ST fairways woods, that arrived in October.

I had held off getting fairway woods because the 5 year old Callaway Steelheads were still as good, or better than the new product Callaway was coming out with. Plus for me, from a visual standpoint, the higher-faced surface on the Steelheads, gave me more confidence giving the ball a real rip when hitting. But additionally, Trackman was still showing strong numbers for me with the Steelheads.

The new Callaway Paradym driver might be the best driver I have ever hit.

Finally that changed last year, when late in the summer, I decided to test my Steelheads against the Rogue ST fairway woods.

This time after wins against the Callaway Rogue’s-Epic Flashes, and the Mavericks, the Steelheads got beat. In fact pounded by Rogue ST fairway woods. I was surprised. So I made the switch.

My new Rogue ST fairway woods arrived in Mid-October just in time for a fall team event at Heritage Oaks in Northbrook. So after hitting a few range balls I put them in play. The results were mixed, the 5-Wood was really good, and the 3-Wood had mixed results. Which was probably due to my swing more than anything else. But I did head out that week to the recently renovated Settlers Hill in Batavia, where my two new fairway woods performed much better.

Ryan Krebs studies the numbers on the Trackman board, after hitting Callaway Paradym fairway woods.

The Rogue ST’s played even better in a early December round at Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein.

Then during my winter golf trip around the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show. My Rogue’s were more effective, especially in 75-85 degree weather.

But all that being said, ever since I first saw and hit the Paradym’s. There was an interest in seeing if they worked for me. I was able to hit them before they were released, then again at a Callaway Day recently in the Mistwood Golf Dome. So I set up a testing time to see if their was much of a difference from the ST’s.

  vs        CLUB FITTING-some golfers hear the word “fitting” and think it means they have to buy new clubs. But you don’t. Even though some locations give you a better price on new clubs, if you purchase that day. Never be afraid to see how much more the new equipment gives you, over what’s currently in your bag.

My feeling is to look at it this way. Test your current clubs against what’s new before you buy. Because maybe it’s a case of just needing new grips. To get that feel you like back with a certain club.

But if the Trackman numbers tell you the latest and greatest on the market, is so much better than what you have. Then it’s time to make the change. Because ask yourself this question. Do you want to keep losing the bets, the club matches, having to buy the post round drinks. Watch the rest of your foursome get better, while your game stands still.

To the best of Carter’s memory, I was the first to come in with the 2022 version of Callaway Golf, maybe looking to upgrade to the 2023 Paradym’s.

CALLAWAY GOLF CEO CHIP BREWER tells me, he will not let Callaway release anything new. Until it’s a significant upgrade from what is currently out on the market. So I decided to put that theory to the test.

CARTER IMMEDIATELY found improvements to my numbers in distance. Both carry and roll-out. My dispersal patterns were even better, on the Paradym driver, fairway woods and irons. I do realize that everyone’s golf budget doesn’t allow for new clubs every year. But even if you bought last year, it might not be a bad idea to upgrade at least part of your bag, in 2023. I found Paradym to have a great new feel, while standing over the ball and getting ready to swing. They feel really good during the swing and-at impact.

My average gain was 10 yards of carry, with about 6 more yards of roll-out with Paradym. Likely in part due to a reduced spin rate. Plus I’m using range balls, that have been hit all winter in the dome. So a new Callaway Chrome Soft golf ball, on a warm day, will add even better numbers.

Questions answered. New Paradym’s are ordered and will be delivered within 2-3 weeks. Which is Callaway’s current turn around time for new orders. That’s not bad if you want new equipment for when the courses open around April 1.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Mistwood Golf Club fitter & IPGA professional Matt Carter, and Ryan Krebs of Chicago on his Mistwood Golf and Callaway Paradym club fitting process.

RYAN’s numbers with Paradym were eye-popping. His current woods were the Callaway Epic Flash series, a few years old. So this summer he is looking forward to hitting it longer and straighter, with his new Paradym driver and 5-wood.

When it comes to Callaway Golf and the new Paradym equipment-what a difference a year makes.

THE SNOW IS HERE so lets take it back indoors to the Schaumburg Golf Club, where you can play the Schaumburg Golf Club-Indoors, on one of the clubs three simulators. The bar is open at Chandlers Chophouse upstairs, so book a tee time, a lesson or even get a club fitting or regripping done before the spring is here. Schaumburggolf.com The Schaumburg Golf Club is located at 401 North Roselle Road. Call (847)-885-9000.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. With the Callaway Maverick Driver at Reynolds-Lake Oconee on the Great Waters course by Jack Nicklaus. (R) with the new Callaway Paradym driver in the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook. Mistwoodgolfdome.com.

Callaway vs Callaway coming tomorrow-my Callaway Paradym fitting with Mistwoods Matt Carter in the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook (630)-739-7600. Fitting services will switch to Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville in a couple of weeks.

THIS MORNING I’m finally glad to see the results of the fantasy golf league I’m a part of, because I finally picked the winner. So back in the first week of January. I had to pick the winner of every tournament through the BMW Championship. Today for the first time this year, I got it right. The standings are determined by $$$$, not points by a corporate sponsor. So I did pick a great week to get it right. Thanks Scottie-congrats on winning “The Players Championship.”

Scheffler put on a dazzling exhibition of golf yesterday at TPC Sawgrass. There was never really a feeling that he wouldn’t win, even when tied after three holes. Tyrell Hatton had a great finish, but even when he posted his 12 under par I never thought it would be good enough to win. In fact I wasn’t sure it would hold up for second place. Scheffler is really a player on the course.

THE PLAYERS OFF THE COURSE: Guess who is in trouble again. With women of course. Because some animals never change their stripes. Tiger Woods has been sued by his former girl friend of six years Erica Herman. Herman was duped by Woods handlers to leave the house, and go on a short vacation. Then she was told she was locked out of the house she shared with Woods. Herman claims Woods people stole $40,000 from her. Woods team wonders where she got the money in the first place.

Herman wants the NDA she signed voided, suggesting she was not sexually assaulted. But maybe sexually harassed. Herman is seeking a settlement of $30 million. This one should get interesting before it goes away.

WHAT WAS interesting how NBC golf mouthpiece Dan Hicks didn’t talk much about his idol Woods. Woods name was only mentioned through out the Players, when there was statistical comparisons to be made. So did the bosses tell the announcers to avoid the topic. Then again since LIV Golf came along, PGA Tour broadcasts only knock players associated with LIV. Because nobody on the PGA Tour does much of anything wrong anymore-especially Woods.

THERE WAS TWITTER COMMENTS on how Brandel Chamblee no longer rips PGA Tour guys anymore, just LIV golfers. There is an element of truth to that.

The Landings Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee in Greensboro GA. The par 4-fifth hole.

So now with the Players in the books, The Valspar championship is on the tee this week.

Then there is the match play championship before a warm-up tourney, and then the Masters.

When the Masters week arrives, so does golf in Georgia.

ICYMI our Saturday story is how you can enjoy Masters week, at Georgia’s top golf destination, Reynolds-Lake Oconee. For when Georgia is on your mind.

DURING MY WINTER GOLF TRIP-that wraps around the PGA Merchandise Show, I visited a few destination properties. Reynolds-Lake Oconee was one of them.

This visit allowed me to play the last two courses I had not played at RLO, the Landing and the Preserve. The first two courses built at Reynolds-Lake Oconee, by architect the late Bob Cupp.

Both courses are nice, but I saw them off-season and after 8 1/2 inches of rain fell the previous 7 days. So there was some standing water in places. One great thing about the Preserve Course, is that the clubhouse is home to one of the great breakfasts in golf. Dining looks out on the putting green and first tee box. So on your next visit to Reynolds-LO and the Preserve course don’t miss it.

NOW WORD IS that the National Course by Tom Fazio-currently 27 holes, will begin work on another 9-holes. Making National two different courses, stay tuned for more details.

THIS WEEK I hope the remaining snow melts away, and it’s a step is towards opening area golf courses. The Gog Blog returns all week-RS.

THE SNOW IS BACK-So you should be back at the Schaumburg Golf Club where three simulators are waiting to host your tee time. Because you can’t play the Schaumburg Golf Club outside, you can play it inside. Book now at Schaumburggolf.com or call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000. The pro shop is filling up with merchandise for golf season.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.

RITZ CARLTON-(L)-THE LINGER LONGER STEAK HOUSE-(M)-NATIONAL VILLA-(R)

APRIL is the Masters-NOW you can make Reynolds Lake Oconee in Greensboro GA. your home for Masters week. Augusta National Golf Club is about 70 miles away. Just over a 1 hour drive from the tournament.

IT CAN’T be Masters week without a round of golf on the Great Waters Golf Course, designed by the greatest masters champion ever-Jack Nicklaus.

REYNOLDS-For when Georgia is on your mind.

Reynolds has 6 golf courses, 5 of those are open for guest play. But all five of them are national award winners.

SO IF your looking to make Reynolds Lake-Oconee your home for Masters week. Call now and the reservation sales team will price your stay. Masters week runs from March 31st through April 10th. (800)-901-1204.

WHERE YOU STAY: The Reynolds Lake Oconee Cottages and Condominiums. Two to four bedroom lodging units. But the famed Southern-style breakfast is included each morning at the Eighty8 Kitchen+Cocktails. Daily housekeeping service. So you can order what else you might need through the Reservation-Sales team.

The first hole on the Oconee Course by Rees Jones.

Reynolds Lake-Oconee has five award winning golf courses.

They are all ranked by Golfweek magazine in the top 13 best you can play in state.

Great Waters by Jack Nicklaus #2. The Oconee by Rees Jones #4. National by Tom Fazio #10. Preserve by Bob Cupp #12. The Landing by Cupp #13.

But Masters Week does have restrictions and prices are subject to change.

The 1st hole at the Preserve-by Bob Cupp.

The Preserve Golf Course was designed by Cupp. But Cupp had help from two U.S. Open Champions.

Because both Fuzzy Zoeller and Hubert Green worked with Cupp as player consultants.

So while the Preserve is not a long golf course. There is plenty of challenge from the back tee’s are 6,674 yards. But for golfers of all skills, there are eight sets of tees, something rarely found on top rated courses.

The par 4 fifth hole on the Landing Golf Course, the first course built at Reynolds Lake-Oconee.

The Landing Golf Course was the first golf course built at Reynolds, it opened in 1986.

But it’s a longer course than the Preserve Course, with the back tees playing at 6,991 yards. So like the Preserve Course, the Landings course has 8 sets of tees.

Both courses by Cupp, set the tone for each course that followed to take Reynolds golf to the next level.

The most recent work at Reynolds was by Nicklaus, when he returned to do a recent renovation of Great Waters. Tree removal was a big part of the project, with over 1,000 trees removed. But with new sightlines around the golf course, Great Waters has become one of the best courses in Georgia.

So take your enjoyment of green jacket week to Reynolds Lake-Oconee, have Georgia on your mind. Five award winning golf courses. ReynoldsLakeOconee.com or call (800)-901-1204.