LPGA VETERAN NICOLE JERAY is now part of the Mistwood Golf Club and Mistwood Golf Dome teaching staff, details on instruction at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome at (630)-739-7600. THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has improved their winter golf operation with the addition of several new Top 100 courses in the simulator bays. Find out where you can play all winter long, while at the Schaumburg Golf located at 401 N. Roselle Road. See SchaumburgGolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 #chandlersCH. _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears. Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. On the par 3 Cradle Course in Pinehurst

Do you wear glasses when you putt.

A German firm called Viewlicity thinks that you should and has created a set of special glasses to help you read the greens.

When your playing golf, golfers that wear PuttView Glasses can see the line and pace of a putt before they hit the ball, with the help of a computer-generated display that is overlaid transparently into the real golf world.

Golfers on the European PGA Tour tested it on the putting green.

Hinrich Arkenau tests out the PuttView Glasses.

“PuttView is an awesome practice tool. Visualising the ball starting off the right line gives the feedback you need to develop a consistent swing path and face angle throughout the stroke. It is impressive new golf technology, and I can see myself using it to practice my own putting.” said Hinrich Arkenau.

Tour Player Max Kieffer had this to say about the PuttView Glasses. “I tested PuttView both indoors and outdoors, and I’m excited about it’s potential. It gives constant, optimal feedback-literally at your fingertips-on green-reading,direction and pace control.

The PuttView immersive putting practice can be experienced in two products, the glasses for outdoor use, and an indoor version that is suitable for golf academies and private golf installations. Instead of using Augmented Reality Glasses, the indoor version projects animated light path directly onto the putting surface, enabling students to see the line and pace of a breaking putt.

For more information on PuttView visit puttview.com or email Lukas Posniak at posniak@puttview.com.

READY FOR YOUR MATCH, how about Ryder Cup venue vs Ryder Cup venue, 2018 Le Golf National (L) vs 2020 Whistling Straits, take on your friends in Ryder Cup style matches all winter long at the Schaumburg Golf Club, 401 N. Roselle Rd. just minutes from Woodfield Mall. For more details see Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 for your tee time, and while your there enjoy Chandlers Chop House right upstairs.

Click here to hear Schaumburg GM Jon Parsons describe the indoor golf facility at SGC

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook, can’t beat a day on Pinehurst #2.

Wanna Golf Away, from Chicago that it is. As winter continues to roll in, and your game is in shape from  practicing in the great indoor golf facilities in the area, you might be ready to head south for some outdoor golf.

Pinehurst the Cradle of American Golf located in North Carolina should be something on your hit list.

If you have never been to Pinehurst it’s a bucket list destination, and if you have not been there in a while, it is time to return. The resort has put together several upgrades around the property, that call for a visit, or a return visit.

The architect Gil Hanse renovation of the famed Donald Ross Classic Pinehurst #4, should be on every golfers must play list.

Pinehurst #4 a Donald Ross original that dates back a 100 years in 2019, is back in a big way.

Architect Gil Hanse has recreated the course in a full Ross-Pinehurst style, that shows some of the form that was put back into Pinehurst No.2, a few years ago by architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. No.2 has drawn rave reviews, and played host to two U.S. Opens since it reopened and is the home of the 2019 USGA Amateur Championship. Course #4 will be the second course for the U.S. Amateur  that is coming up in August.

But Pinehurst has done a lot more than renovate one of it’s 10 golf courses, did I say ten. Yes, there is a tenth golf course at Pinehurst, and Gil Hanse had a hand in that one as well.

   THE PAR 3 COURSE called The Cradle has produced hours of enjoyment for golfers of both sexes and all ages, Pinehursts play all day for one rate, and classic beverage cart complete with music, has golfers lined up to enjoy the Cradle, named after the phrase that, Pinehurst is the Cradle of Golf (birthplace) in America. (R) is the Donald Ross home to the left of the third hole on Pinehurst No.2. The Pinehurst Resort did finally purchase the home, and it’s available for special events.

WELCOME TO THE NEW HOT SPOT IN PINEHURST, The Pinehurst Brewery that is complete with it’s own smokestack, that has been rebuilt brick-by-brick. The brand new facility was once the old power plant in town. The plan to build it’s own brewery was one of genius by the resort, that comes on the heels of creating Deuces behind the 18th green of Pinehurst No.2. (brewery photo’s by Joy Sarver-from Len Ziehm on Golf).

   Pinehurst Resort President Tom Pashley (L) has overseen a transition of the Pinehurst Resort, that has preserved it’s tradition, while introducing options and activities for all age groups.

THE HISTORIC AND HAUNTED HOLLY INN one of the landmarks in Pinehurst, has just undergone a multi-million dollar renovation, that preserves the inn’s historic southern charm, while adding some of the newer and modern comforts of home. The ghosts are said to be approving of the upgrades. (R)-photo courtesy of the Pinehurst Resort.

The resort has built a new outdoor swimming pool, that has been a hit with members and resort guests on warmer days. The member clubhouse has been upgraded (yes there are memberships), and the main locker rooms have been renovated.

  THE CAROLINA HOTEL is the main hotel at the resort, and is home to the best breakfast in golf, period, bar none. It’s a variety of every breakfast delicacies you can imagine, while you enjoy music from the piano player. Golfers get fueled up before the days walk between the pines of the resorts golf courses.

Donald Ross still stands tall in Pinehurst. You can see more of the Ross history at the Tufts archives library in downtown Pinehurst.

The dining room in the main clubhouse has been known as the Donald Ross room for years, that has been part of what was known as the 91st hole.

With the addition of the Cradle, there are now 100 holes around the main clubhouse. The Donald Ross room has been under renovation and is being upgraded.

Ross courses 1&3 have seen changes, on a few holes due to the addition of the Cradle and the redone Thistle Dhu putting course. Across the scorecard in Pinehurst, are upgrades that are being welcomed, which also include Pork Chop Hill the practice range where the shots don’t end up on the scorecard. Another Pinehurst option when your off the golf course is to relax in comfort in the spa, that is currently undergoing some upgrades to both of the men’s and women’s steam rooms. But will be completed quickly.

Pinehurst offers a variety of packages all year round, so if you have had enough of cold and snowy Chicago weather, why not make a visit to Pinehurst, where the Cradle of Golf is rocking. See Pinehurst.com or call (855)-235-8507.                        

 THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has upgraded it’s simulator bays with several new TOP 100 Courses, get the details and book your tee times at (847)-885-9000 or go online to Schaumburg.com. THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME has been upgraded with the Toptracer technology, McWethy’s Sportsbar and the addition of LPGA veteran golf professional Nicole Jeray to the teaching staff. See Mistwoodgolf.com (630)-739-7600.   _____________________________________________________________________

Bob Spence at the Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta GA.

Bob Spence a former KemperSports executive, who went on to work with Davis Love III and his course design team has passed away after lengthy battle with cancer.

His wife Sheila of 35 years confirmed his passing tonight, through Len Ziehm on Golf.

Spence would be remembered by Chicago area golfers as the first head professional and Director of Golf at Kemper Lakes, when the club opened for public play in 1979. Spence was one of the main contacts for KSM, who worked with Kemper Lakes designing architects Dick Nugent and Ken Killian.

Spence worked on some 40 new course and renovation projects with Love III. In recent years Spence worked with the development of the Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta Georgia. Funeral arrangements are still pending. More details on Spence and history in golf in the Chicago area, are available at Lenziehmongolf.com.

Golfersongolf.com is written by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook.

 THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME (formerly McQ’s) is Chicago’s premier indoor golf dome, with the hitting bays now complete with Toptracer technology. For food and beverage McWethys Sportsbar is a great option, and the OTB to keep up with the horses. Play the ponies and take your winnings to the rest of the dome. For more details see Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600. THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB located at 401 N. Roselle Road just minutes from Woodfield Mall has upgraded it’s simulator bays. You can play Ryder Cup Style Matches with your favorite foursome on 2018 and 2020 Ryder Cup venues golf courses. Several other Top 100 courses have been added. Do visit Schaumburggolf.com or call for tee times at (847)-885-9000.  _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, and on Linkedin and Facebook. Over looking the 18th hole on the Pete Dye Course at the French Lick Resort.

Titleist has created a driver they feel is now superior in speed across the board. Now Available in pro shops and golf retail stores everywhere is the new Titleist TS Drivers.

Titleist has also created the same concept in it’s new fairway woods the TS2 and TS3.

The Titleist Speed Project, came from a challenge of top players to make the fastest Titleist Driver possible. The end result was the TS2 and TS3 drivers. That have been designed with the features of faster ball speed and higher launch, a lower spin and a increased MOI, for longer distance.

The first opportunity for Titleist staff players to play the new driver, was at the U.S Open last June at Shinnecock Hills. 17 players put them in their bag that week, including 2017 PGA Championship Justin Thomas who hit a 422-yard drive in Round 1. Three tournaments later Thomas won at Firestone, and gave the credit to his new TS3 Driver with a 9.5 degree set up. Michael Kim was the first player on tour to win with the new driver, when he won the John Deere Classic in July with a TS2 10.5, his average was 294.8 yards off the tee.

THE TS DRIVERS (L) and the new TS Fairway Woods (R). Titleist.com for details.

Titleist calls their new drivers made up from four top innovations. The Ultra-Thin Crown made of Titanium, that is 20% thinner than the 917 Driver, and this allows weight to be shifted lower and deeper. A thinner faster face, the fastest face Titleist has ever created, with a weight reduction of  6 grams, that helps create the faster ball speeds.

The new shaping of the club head reduces drag by 20%, that allows golfers to swing faster. New weight distribution has helped create higher launch and less spin. The new MOI is 12% higher than the previous 917 driver.

Josh Talge, VP, Titleist Golf Club Marketing says the new drivers and the TS project was about, “driving up ball speed and creating a new level of performance that golfers could not ignore. In order to do that we knew we had to look at things differently, We challenged ourselves to deconstruct the driver and then literally build it back up, piece by piece to be faster and longer in every way possible.”

Talge on the TS fairway woods. “The new TS2 fairway is unlike any fairway we have ever made. It’s a high launching, low-spinning distance machine that is forgiving and will change the way players look at a fairway wood with how easy it is to get the ball up in the air. TS3 is also fast and forgiving. It gives players who like to work the ball or need more shot control to really dial-in their performance.”

There is a variety of stock shafts that come with the clubs giving golfers options, that include Kero Kage, Tensei, Hzrdus and Even Flow. Driver lofts are 8.5, 9.5, 10.5 and 11.5 in the TS2, with the same options except the 11.5 on TS3. Fairway Woods come in 13.5, 15, 16.5 and 18, with the TS2 having a 21 degree in RH clubs only.

Several Titleist Tour staff players have put the new TS Drivers and Fairway clubs into play. Justin Thomas is using both, along with Jimmy Walker, Brian Harman, Chesson Hadley and Cameron Smith. Jordan Spieth has added the TS2 15 degree to his bag.

The Titleist TS2 and TS3 drivers have a MAP of $499.00 and the Fairway Woods are set at $299.00 per club.

 JIM MCWETHY’S COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE has made the Mistwood Golf Dome the #1 indoor golf dome in the Chicago area. Now complete with the Toptracer technology, the MGD provides golfers with everything they could need from an indoor golf facility. McWethy’s Sportsbar is another winner, with it’s new look and improved menu, see Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600 on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook.        ______________________________________________________________________

IT FEELS LIKE THIS TODAY, The Pinehurst Par 3 Course The Cradle in Jan. 2018, today there is No Snow in Pinehurst, unlike here in Chicago where winter has arrived. The Gog Blog by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, and on Linkedin and or Facebook.

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR, so they say. This morning the Chicago area has been blasted by a winter storm that has pretty much wiped out any last chance for outside golf before the end of the year.

Early in 2019 the Eskimo Open tee’s off at Cog Hill on Sunday January 6th, with tee times starting at 7 AM. For those of you who are ready to play outside again here in town.

While today seems to be a snow day, it is also Cyber-Monday for those of you who endulge in such things. If you are planning to purchase such golf related items at travel to destination properties, or perhaps some forms of apparel. This could be your day. Destination Kohler up in Wisconsin has specials today, and so does the Salamander resort/hotel chain, that includes properties like Innisbrook near Tampa and Reunion in Orlando. The online Greg Norman apparel people have sales at 35% off today, go hit it.

The hot golf sellers today online seem to be training aids, discounted golf balls, and golf shoes and bags. Enjoy your gifts if your buying.

MCWETHY”S TAVERN at Mistwood Golf Club has a breakfast with the Grinch Dec. 9th, Breakfast with Santa on Dec.16th, and a Murder mystery event on New Years Eve Dec. 31st. Check Mistwoodgc.com for details.

THE COG HILL Holida open house is Saturday Dec. 1st from 10-3 in the 2-4 building.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB is open for year round golf. The simulator bays have been upgraded with top new courses, find out which ones at schaumburgolf.com. or call (847)-885-9000

PPV-Pay-Per-View had issues last Friday during Tiger vs Phil, in fact some that paid the $19.95 didn’t get it, and some who didn’t pay at all did get it. Refunds are going out to those who did not get the feed. Can you say Mulligan.

It was unbelievable that some media actually wrote that this kind of event, is something that golf needs more of. SAY WHAT???

AH-NO!!! we don’t. PPV sets a bad precedent, and it certainly didn’t help boxing. If you missed it, Phil Mickelson won on the 22nd hole, after the last three holes (20-21-22) were played on a lighted 93 yard par 3 hole, since the event ran out of daylight. Something that TV should take note of going forward. By all accounts, the golf was bad, with both players spraying it around, and missing many short putts, the announcing was even worse, while those who paid or didn’t, had their issues as well.

The old Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf had some charm, while this event had $$$$ questions, and side bets, that apparently got regulated by the PGA Tour. I didn’t know this was a PGA Tour event. Long before an event like this happens again, and unfortunately another one probably will happen, there are a lot of bugs to get worked out.

BIG 3 partner Len Ziehm has the Ziehm Machine rolling through the South, and his posted travel stories on the Lake Charles Louisiana area, that has plenty of golf and casino related golf. Ziehm also took his travels to Texas, to visit an old GOG haunt, Horseshoe Bay Resort in Austin Texas, that is in the middle of some serious upgrades and renovations. See Lenziehmongolf.com.

GOOD NEWS for Wilson Golf, reports have the new Cortex Driver winner of the Driver vs Driver 2 show selling very well in it’s early days. Even at the $499.00 mark. For more details on the Cortex, visit Wilsongolf.com.

GOOD NEWS PART 2-The Lake Bluff Park District park board did vote to keep the golf course open for the future. The Park District did come to an agreement with GolfVisions Management Inc. and has them replacing Billy Casper Golf as the courses management firm. The new agreement over the next five years will save tax payers over $2.1 million dollars, and the park will use the savings to fund major repairs and improvements to facilities. More details at Lakebluffparks.org.

This is good news for golfers, and hopefully with more improvements on the golf course the play will pick up on what is a good public golf course.

With that, Go Shop ! or save it for the stores and pro shops, like I am going to do. The Gog Blog returns tomorrow. RS

 CHICAGO IS A YEAR ROUND GOLF TOWN thanks to these two facilities. The Schaumburg Golf Club has built simulator bays in the clubhouse basement, that are full of Top 100 Courses, and Ryder Cup venues of 2018 and 2020. Chip in with Chandlers Chop House right upstairs and you can’t go wrong. Make your tee times today by calling (847)-885-9000 or visit Schaumburggolf.com. The renamed Mistwood Golf Dome has added to it’s experience by adding an exclusive dome-deal with Toptracer technology that gives golfers plenty of options when hitting balls in the dome. The bar and grill is now McWethy’s Sports Bar that brings the same quality food and service found at McWethy’s Tavern at Mistwood Golf Club. Mistwoodgolfdome.com (630)-739-7600.         _____________________________________________________________________

It’s starting to look like this outdoors, just not in Pinehurst. The Gog Blog by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. You can follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, and on Linkedin and Facebook.

With 2019 quickly approaching you need to start planning ahead. Get your calendar for 2019 today, by ordering the 2019 Golf Calendar by Evan Schiller.

Evan captures courses like 2019 U.S.Open Course Pebble Beach, Sand Valley, Bandon Dunes, Mammoth Dunes and other top courses around the world, to your local favorite country club in ways never seen before. To order your 2019 golf calendar by Evan Schiller vs Golfshots.com. Visit that website, to see some of the best golf pictures you have ever seen.

INDIANA UNIVERSITY has announced the signing of Hanna Tanaka of Glenview and Glenbrook South High School, to play on their women’s golf team. Tanaka has won back-to-back IJGA Player of the Year titles, and finished 10th at this falls IHSA state championship.

Maple Meadows is open until Dec. 23rd weather permitting, so as soon as this weeks snow melts, be ready for outdoor golf.

DuPage Golf is still up and running, so don’t let the covers fool-you. In addition to the gift card specials now available in the pro shop, Maple Meadows is still open weather permitting.

It’s always special to play outdoor golf in the Chicago area come November and December. So as soon as this weeks snow melts, you can try and tee it up at Maple Meadows, until the 23rd of December. The Preserve and Green Meadows are closed for the season. Need a room for holiday parties, or a place for a golf outing in 2019, time to visit Dupagegolf.com and plan ahead. Work on the Preserve’s new clubhouse is expected to start next spring. Get your gift cards today.

STARTING ON THURSDAY for the next 10 weeks, the BAGS league starts in the Mistwood Golf Dome. Tee time is 8 PM, and fee per team is $40.00. BAGS, boys and girls, it’s a co-ed special. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

Rogue Driver Callawaygolf.com

From the folks at Callaway Golf, here is the breakdown of what Phil Mickelson had in his bag when he won “The Match” over Tiger Woods.

Rogue Driver-Sub Zero. Rogue Fairway Wood, 3-wood. X-Forged Utility Iron. X-Forged Irons 5-7. Apex-MB 18 (8-PW). Chrome Soft X Golf ball. Mack Daddy Wedges PM Grind 56-60-64 degrees. Phil used a new Odyssey Proto-type putter with a new proto-type shaft that’s stability leads to a more consistent putting stroke. visit Callawaygolf.com for more details on Callaway Golf products.

Nicole Jeray in the Mistwood Golf Dome, where she is now teaching as part of the Mistwood Golf professional staff.

Nicole Jeray a 25 year LPGA veteran has joined the Mistwood Golf Staff. Jeray is expected to draw more women and more junior girls to Mistwood and the Mistwood junior golf program.

Jeray won eight tournaments while playing for the Huskies of Northern Illinois University. She is a member of the schools 2002 Sports Hall of Fame Class.

Jeray joined the LPGA Tour in 1994 and played in three U.S. Women’s Open’s and two British Women’s Open’s. She has played in the first two Sr. LPGA Women’s Championships that were held at the French Lick Resort. She finished 6th in 2017. She has won the Phil Kosin Illinois Women’s Open twice and lost a possible third title in a playoff.

“I’ve always been a huge fan of Mistwood ever since they began hosting the Illinois Women’s Open in 1998,” Jeray said. “Once the renovations were completed and the amazing Performance Center was added, I could not imagine the opportunity to teach the game at a better facility. Combine that with the new award-winning renovated golf course, the amazing teaching staff and the programs they offer, I couldn’t be more excited.” For more information see Mistwoodgolf.com or call (630)-739-7600.

2019 Team Europe Captain Catriona Matthew (L) with Vice-Captain Laura Davies, with the Solheim Cup

2019 Solheim Cup European Team Captain Catriona Matthew, has made 2019 U.S.Sr. Women’s Open, and 2019 Sr. LPGA Championship winner Laura Davies a member of her staff.

Davies who won the Sr. Women’s Grand Slam (2-events) with a win at the Chicago Golf Club and the Pete Dye Course at the French Lick Resort, joins Matthews staff as a Vice-Captain.

Davies is the events leading points scorer with 25, and she has played on 12 European Solheim Cup teams. Suzann Pettersen and Kathryn Imrie are the other two Vice-Captain for team Europe.

“I’m delighted an honored to be asked to be a vice-captain for the first time by Catriona,” said Davies. “I got her invitation while I was doing commentary at the Ryder Cup, and I didn’t even have to think about it. The Solheim Cup has always held a special place in my heart. The 2019 Solheim Cup will be played at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire Scotland, from September 13-15th.

The Stadium Course at the Catalunya Resort in Spain.

Wanna Golf Away ? If Europe is on your hit list for 2019, why not try Spain and visit the Catalunya Resort.

The resorts Stadium Course is the #1 rated course in the nation. The resort itself is ranked by Golf World as the #2 resort on the magazines Top 100 list for all of Europe.

The golf course sits back in the middle of towering pine trees and several beautiful lakes. The resort is about a 1-hour drive from the Barcelona Airport it has two golf courses. See Pgacatalunya.com.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT-RETURNS ON MONDAY…RS

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME is now complete with Toptracer technology, that works much better than what was seen during the Phil vs Tiger Match. Mistwoodgolfdome.com Chicago’s premier golf dome on RT. 53 in Bolingbrook. SCHAUMBURG Golf Club on Roselle Road in Schaumburg is home to the best golf simulator set up in the suburbs. Three bays complete with TOP 100 courses and Ryder Cup venues give golfers plenty of great courses to play. See Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 for tee times

CLICK HERE to hear GM Jon Parsons talk about the year round golf program at SGC.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. On the new putting green at the Schaumburg Golf Club.

THE CLEVELAND GOLF company has introduced a new line of putters, named the Huntington Beach SOFT, that is now available in stores and pro shops.

“Cleveland Golf putters have always been a great value, but the Huntington Beach SOFT Putter, that features a speed optimized face and premium finish, takes it to a new level,” said Jeff Brunski, Vice President of Research and Development.

What powers this new design is the Cleveland Golf’s proprietary Speed Optimized Face Technology (SOFT). SOFT helps regulate ball speed across the face of the putter, that allows golfers to strike the putt, and get consistent speed and distance.

The SOFT group of putters by Cleveland Golf

The Huntington Beach (SOFT) have a custom face-milling pattern for each head shape, instead of the same face pattern for every putter shape. The SOFT pattern uses a gradual face milling pattern on higher MOI models, while using a rapid milling variation on lower MOI models.

The Huntington Beach SOFT putters have a coarse, diamond-shaped milling pattern to soften the feel at impact while increasing friction for a more consistent roll. The putter line is created from soft 304 stainless steel. Prices on the Huntington beach new SOFT putters range from $79 to $139 dollars. For more details see Clevelandgolf.com.

   THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has closed down it’s outdoor operation for 2018, but the indoor upgraded simulator bays are in full swing for winter months. Have your game ready for when the club opens in 2019, and then reopens the Baer Nine around July 1st to have 18 holes of it’s 27 holes restored. You think Tiger vs Phil is exciting, well how about you vs anyone in your match. Play Ryder Cup matches vs your friends on the 2018 Ryder Cup Venue Le Golf National, or 2020 venue Whistling Straits. Several other Top 100 courses have been added as well. See Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 to make your tee times. Also enjoy food & beverage from Chandlers Chop House

Hear-Schaumburg Golf Club GM Jon Parsons on the indoor simulator facilities @SGC

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Facebook, Twitter @GogBlogGuy and Linkedin. By the fire place in McWethy’s Tavern at Mistwood Golf Club.

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR, where I write the annual column about shopping for golfers around the holiday season.

It’s not hard to do in fact it’s pretty easy, so read along and I’ll have you tee off in the right direction.

I know there are those of you who just go out and buy, and figure it’s the surprise that counts, and if something doesn’t quite work out, well he or she can just return it.

Well save yourself the time and hassle and make sure you get it right the first time. There are plenty of things you can buy an avid golfer. Not just clubs or golf balls, or hats or a shirt, you the shopper have plenty of options, which is always a good thing.

Starting at the top, you can get clubs, but don’t even bother unless you know exactly what to buy. Don’t rely on the fact he or she always seems to like the Titleist, Callaway, Taylor Made or Wilson Ad’s. Did your favorite golfer love the Driver vs Driver 2 show on the Golf Channel, did they say the new Wilson Cortex Driver that won the contest looks cool. Well maybe so, but don’t get fooled by the adjustment slider on the bottom of the club and think that’s all your favorite golfer needs. You need to know shaft type, length, type of grip they are comfortable with, and in some cases the color of the club head they might want.

The Wilson Cortex Driver $499.00, is one of the hot new drivers that is just on the market. Wilsongolf.com

What if ? they don’t need a driver, it’s about fairway woods, or do they play Hybrids, what about Irons, wedges and putters. Do you want to buy a full set or one club.

If your buying any amount of clubs, get them fit first. You can buy your favorite golfer a fitting, and ask before you get a fitting certificate, if there is a discount for new equipment for golfers that have used a fitter and wish to buy direct from the location of the fitting. Would you buy a suit not fitted, would you buy a car without taking it for a test drive, the same applies with golf clubs.

There are fitting shops such as Chicago based Club Champion (multiple locations), True Spec Golf (Highland Park), the new PXG store in Northbrook is the place to go, for PXG clubs only. Three-time major winner Jordan Spieth and multiple top teachers are now endorsing Club Champion. You can get fit at PGA Tour Superstores, now with three locations (Downers Grove,Schaumburg, and Vernon Hills). The Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook is another outstanding option.

LESSONS…never a bad idea, regardless of how good your golfer might be. Mistwood now has LPGA veteran Nicole Jeray at the dome and at the golf course. Jeray is focusing on women and junior girls but is great option for any golfer. The rest of the Mistwood teaching and fitting staff is as good as it gets around town. But the Chicago market is fortunate to have plenty of great teachers around the area.

Mistwood instructor Dan Phillips (L) works with a student at the Mistwood Golf Dome.

Fitting is also something you can do with golf balls, get the right brand and the right type. Do you want just a certain brand, or that brand’s X-model- or soft model, or the distance ball.

Yes there are differences.

For those of you who are more comfortable shopping for apparel. There are plenty of options to pick from. It’s not just about shirts or hats anymore.

Pants, rain or all-weather suits are options. Sunglasses are getting designed for golf , what about golf gloves, tees, socks, shoes, pull-overs with long or short sleeves. Does your golfer need some decorations for the home or the office. Golf ball collection racks, and or golf art, golf glass-wear are just three more options. Does your die-hard golfer go play in the rain, if so they might need an a new umbrella, that also holds up on windy days. Waterproof golf shoes for wet or rainy days are a great idea.

Class inductee of the 2019 World Golf Hall of Fame Jan Stephenson is among the latest golfer to have their own line of wines and in Jan’s case, Rum.

Your favorite golfer probably enjoys a beverage after golf, and might enjoy some wine or other type of drink.

Golfers have been coming out with their own lines of wine for years. David Frost started the idea, but it was Greg Norman who really grabbed the ball and ran with it, coming out with several types made in Australia. Jack Nicklaus has his line of wine and ice-cream.

Ernie Els has his wines and so does Luke Donald and Jan Stephenson. Illinois PGA professional Fred Robinson has a distillery up in Lake Zurich north of Chicago (Copper Fiddle), with several types of flavors to pick from.

Pinehurst Resort now has it’s own brewery, and it’s a must visit. Photo by Joy Sarver, of Len Ziehm on Golf.

What about destination travel. There is nothing better you can do for your serious northern based golfer, than getting them down south this winter to a place where they can take the clubs.

A gift certificate toward a stay & play at a golf resort is a wonderful idea. Many of them have fantastic spas and fun casino’s.

There are several properties that host professional tournaments in the winter months, so plan accordingly.

Pinehurst NC. has just reopened Course #4 by Gil Hanse, #4 will be used as part of the 2019 USGA Amateur Championship next August. Innisbrook in Florida home of the Valspar Championship, is home to Copperhead a great course anyone can play, and recently renovated rooms that open this week. There are more options in Arizona if your headed through Las Vegas or out that way for Cubs or White Sox spring training. You can wait until next spring or summer to enjoy resorts a little more up north like the French Lick Resort down in Southern Indiana, that will be opening nice new suites in 2019 right alongside the casino.

If your golfer is a sports fan, there are plenty of stores that sell Zero Friction golf products, that include golf gloves with team, or college logo’s on them. Some golf facilities do give you more bang for the buck on gift cards. Buy $100 worth and get $125 worth, maybe a free round of golf for next spring. DuPage Golf has the holiday bonus gift cards available now at DuPagegolf.com.

There are plenty of ways to fix up your golfer by the 25th of December, just review your options of how to do it the right way, before you buy. RS

HAVE A GREAT THANKSGIVING FROM ALL OF US AT GOLFERS ON GOLF !!!

Golfers on Golf is L-R Ed Stevenson, Bill Berger, and Rory Spears.

All of us at Golfers on Golf wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.

As Black Friday shopping begins do remember that there are plenty of golf sales happening starting early in the morning.

Golfers on Golf reminds you to visit DuPagegolf.com for information on golf purchases. Bill Berger invites everyone to come order some pizza at Jakes on Grand Avenue in Franklin Park.

Locally tomorrow, the best sale is likely to be found at the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook, on Bolingbrook Drive (Rt.53). Doors open at 8 AM, and McWethy’s Sports Bar in the dome will show Tiger vs Phil for those who might be interested. The Black Friday dome sale included the main equipment companies, golf merchandise and more.

The Schaumburg Golf Club has shut down it’s outside operation for the season, but SGC is a year-round golf facility. The clubs simulators have been upgraded and now include the 2018 and 2020 Ryder Cup venues and some new Top 100 courses in America. Toss in Chandlers Chop House right upstairs for food and drinks and your all set. Schaumbrug Golf Club is located at 401 N.Roselle Road just minutes from Woodfield Mall. So why not golf while your significant other hits the mall. To make your tee time visit schaumburggolf.com or call (885)-885-9000, play your Ryder Cup Match.

The North Course at Innisbrook

The Salamander Hotel and Resort Chain has it’s Black Friday Sale starting at 6 AM tomorrow morning EST.

Where do you want to stay, in Florida, in New Orleans, in Virginia, Salamander has options for you.

For golfers you have plenty of warm options this winter. First on the tee is the Innisbrook Resort just north of Tampa, with three courses including the famed Copperhead Course home of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship. Innisbrook has just completed major room renovations and a restoration to it’s South Course, reopening next week. Reunion Resort just minutes from Disney World in Orlando has three courses. Hammock Beach on the East Coast of Florida has two courses, including the redone Ocean Course by Jack Nicklaus. See Salamander properties at SalamanderHotels.com.

GOLFVISIONS is having it’s 1-Day $124.95 dollar special on it’s 2019 Players Pass, tomorrow for Black Friday. See Golfvisions.net.

FREE GOLF..That should get your attention. Deerfield Golf Club on Saunders Road in Deerfield has it’s Black Friday sale going tomorrow. Buy a $50 gift card and get a free round of golf, two rounds if your spend $100. They need to be played on weekdays. Call (847)-955-8333 for information.

ONLINE SPECIALS on Greg Norman apparel tomorrow and this weekend. Please visit GregNormanCollection.com to place your orders.

Start your golf shopping tomorrow, and locally look for Zero Friction products, that include golf gloves, balls, bags and tee’s. Zerofriction.com.

The PGA TOUR Superstore with three Chicago Area locations, Downers Grove, Schaumburg and now Vernon Hills has Black Friday Specials, see them online or visit the stores.

The Gog Blog returns tomorrow with more on holiday shopping for your favorite golfer. RS.

SCHAUMBURG Golf Club’s Jon Parsons talks you through indoor golf season at SGC    RYDER CUP venues 2018 Le Golf National (L) and 2020 Whistling Straits (R) at SGC. The 2018-2019 winter golf season has begun at Schaumburg Golf Club (847)-885-9000 or Schaumburggolf.com SGC is located at 401 N. Roselle Road near Woodfield Mall.

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or Facebook and Linkedin. With Peakvision sunglasses. See Peakvision.com sunglasses made by golfers for golfers.

What started in 2001 as Excel Golf Products has come a long way. Excel is now known as Zero Friction, and it has created quite a few golf products, and even has golf great Johnny Miller on board.

Owner John Iacono has the Oak Brook Terraced based Zero Friction moving forward and growing all the time.

What started out as a tee company has moved forward into a full line of golf gloves and golf balls. Then there are golf bags too.

In addition the products in each of those lines has improved since they were first released. If you play golf and you want to show your support of your favorite sports teams, why not get your glove with the logo’s of the teams your follow. Are you military, how about gloves that show support for the branches of our armed services.

Dan Pady, Zero Frictions Director of Business Development stands with many of the items in the Zero Fricton Product Line, in Zero Frictions Oak Brook Terrace office.

Zero Friction products are available on line, and locally in PGA Tour Superstores and at many local area golf courses. If your out shopping for golf products starting Black Friday, or through the Christmas season and beyond for yourself or your favorite golfers, don’t forget to look for Zero Friction products. See the full line of what Zero Friction has to offer at zerofriction.com.