MISTWOOD GOLF DOME ON RT. 53 IN BOLINGBROOK is open daily. But with outdoor golf season coming soon, be ready with some practice on Toptracer. Grab a lesson or get fitted for some new clubs. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or (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 or Facebook.

NEXT WEEK the Valspar Championship of the PGA Tour visits Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor Florida. Valspar brings the “Most Colorful” tournament of the year to the Copperhead course, one of the favorite courses PGA Tour players play all year long.

WITH THE PGA TOUR IN TOWN the Innisbrook Resort becomes the center of the golf world next week, as what’s known as the “Florida Swing” wraps up. Innisbrook’s famed Copperhead course will be the main focus, and get all the television time on the networks. But did you know-Innisbrook has three other 18 hole golf courses that are right on property.

72 Holes presents members and resort guests, four rounds of both fun and challenging golf. So yes you can play where the pro’s play. But there are other options as well. They are the Island Course, and the North and South Courses. So do you need more. The resorts practice area’s are well sized and Innisbrooks golf schools that have been a staple for years, add even more.

The par 3, 13th hole on the Island Course.

ALL FOUR of the resorts golf courses were designed by Larry Packard, who lived his later years at Innisbrook until he passed away at age 101.

Packard’s Steak House restaurant is an outstanding place for food and beverage, it’s located in the Copperhead Clubhouse near the first tee of the golf course.

But before Copperhead became the flagship course of the resort, the Island Course was the major challenge on property.  The Island Course plays only 15 yards shorter than Copperhead (7,194 to 7,209) and has a little more water in play. The Island Course recently played host to the Big Ten Conferences Women’s Match Play Championship, won by Northwestern University in Illinois. But that’s not the only college event the course has ever hosted. Because in 1990 the course was home to the NCAA Men’s National Championship, won by a lefthanded player named Phil Mickelson.

The Island Hole on the Island Course- the par 4, 18th.

The resort is looking to have a big name championship back on the Island Course, but when or what remains to be seen. But prior to doing that, there might be some work to this aging beauty.

So since nothing is official, there is plenty of time for members and resort guests to go out and challenge the courses that runs through the trees and waterways of Innisbrook.

What is happening at Innisbrook besides next weeks Valspar Championship. For that side of the story, here is the interview with Innisbrook’s GM/Executive Director Mike Williams.

CLICK HERE to hear the interview with Mike Williams, on the plans for the resorts new Par 3-Short Course, and other changes in the planning stages.

The par-5 2nd hole on the Innisbrook South Course.

The South Course at 6,620 yards is longer in terms of yardage than only the North Course.

But it still plays with different challenges. The first three hole work their way between the trees. But the fourth hole sees the course open up, as it winds it’s way towards the homes the surround one-piece of the property. The closing holes see the course tighten up just a little.

The par-3 third hole is one of the best holes on the resort property. Playing only 180 yards from the back tee’s, the hole is not long. But there is a small creek that angles across the front of this shallow green.

The par-3 third hole. Playing 180 yards from the back tees.

Water comes into play on ten holes of the South Course, with six of them on the back nine. The 18th hole is currently a par 3, and that could change in the short future.

NOT TO BE LEFT OUT is the resort’s North Course, that is to have it’s routing changed with the addition of the new short course.

The North Course is the shortest course at Innisbrook, topping out at just 6,325 yards. But in this case, short does not mean easy. While the North Course won’t play as hard as Copperhead or the Island Course, it will test your game.

Right from the start on the par-4, 380 yard first hole, there is a need to get your ball out to the right side of the fairway past the trees that stick-out on the left. But being out on the right side of the fairway gives the golfer a better angle for approach in between the greenside bunkers.

The Par 4 465 yard third hole on the North Course, with a green guarded by the Black Lagoon. (R) Mike Williams is the Innisbrook Executive Director.

To finish up the closing holes on the North Course, requires some strategy. Because the par-3 16th hole, might be only 170 yards but it’s heavily guarded by front and rear bunkers. Seventeen is slight dogleg left, with a tight fairway and a green heavily protected by small but angled bunkers. Eighteen is a dogleg right to a slightly elevated green and bunkers left and right.

Welcome to Copperhead. The par-5, 560 yard first hole, the shortest par 5 on the golf course.

COPPERHEAD is more than just a one week stop on the PGA Tour. It’s one of the few courses on the PGA Tour that anyone can play.

Plus if your struggling to play four courses in four days, and the Florida heat is running high. The better news is that you can get a cart on all four of Innisbrook’s golf courses.

Copperhead mixes the challenge of the round, between doglegs-left and right. Bunkers large and small. Some water here and there, and fairways that wind between the trees. So what more as a golfer can you ask for in an 18 hole round of golf. It’s no wonder that many of the PGA Touring professionals rate Copperhead as one of the top 5 courses they play on tour.

Striker is there to greet you when you enter the snake pit, holes 16-17-18.

While many golfers will tell you about the “Snake Pit”, the closing holes (16-17-18) there is more to Copperhead.

The 607 yard par-5 fifth hole, requires some carry and is uphill off the tee. But the fifth hole is not the only hole with some serious elevation change. When you play Copperhead, you will learn that Florida is not as flat as you might think.

Recent renovations to Copperhead that included the new white tour-angle sand, and a replacement of the greens have been spectacular additions to the golf course. The greens are as good as you find anywhere and that’s not just near Valspar week.

So why not bring your favorite foursome to Innisbrook, and test the resorts foursome of  72 holes full of golfs challenges. Before or after it becomes Copperhead+4.

Before or after golf you can enjoy the Salamander Spa, or dining in the three clubhouses (North & South Courses share a clubhouse). There are multiple pools on the property as well. Book your next golf trip to Innisbrook at Innisbrookgolfresort.com or call (800)-492-6899.

SPECIAL NOTE next weeks podcast edition of Ziehm & Spears will have Len in the media center at the Valspar Championship.

INNISBROOK RESORT and it’s Fabulous Foursome-REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE for when you have Georgia on your mind. Two great destinations for golf and more. So stay clicked in all week and learn more about these properties. Combined more than 180 holes of golf. With some of the best golf courses in their respective states. #GreatGolf.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn or Facebook. On the Great Waters golf course at Reynolds Lake-Oconee in Greensboro GA.

THE WINTER TRIP-PART 2

Travel Time-after the PGA Show.

Once the PGA Show was over, it was time to visit the great golf properties of the Southeast. Before heading north and back home.

So this part of the trip started at the famed Sarasota Country Club Palm Aire, where Lake-In-The-Hills architect Mike Benkusky has just wrapped up a renovation of Dick Wilson’s Champions Course.

Our Len Ziehm who just posted a column today at LenZiehmongolf.com on the Florida Swing of the PGA Tour, lives on Palm Aire. Len and I played the course and I’ll have more in about 2 weeks on Benkusky’s work there.

But from there I spent time at the Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor Florida, home of next weeks Valspar Championship on the PGA Tour. So I’ll have a look at Innisbrook’s “Famous Foursome” of golf courses. Copperhead +3. Our next post here at Golfers on Golf.

Len Ziehm and I made our way to the World Woods property, which is now becoming Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville Florida. I have written stories already posted on the changes there, if you missed them feel free to double-back and read them. Because it’s pretty exciting what’s going to happen there in the next 20 months.

JEMSEK GOLF SOUTH-just south of Atlanta is the Jemsek families southern golf course called Summer Grove in Newnan Georgia. It’s a good track. But was recovering from some extremely heavy rain storms (15 inches in 48 hours before Christmas). But if your in the area, it’s worth playing. More on Summer Grove this weekend.

The Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Open daily. Home to McWethy’s Sports Bar, Toptracer, golf lessons and club fittings. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

SO DO YOU have Georgia on your mind. Because the Masters is 30 days out.

REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE is the Peachtree States top golf destination. I spent three days there, and both the villas and golf are among the best anywhere.

The Jack Nicklaus redesign of the Great Waters Course is really good. Plus the Oconee course by Rees Jones might be one his best designs ever.

I expect to have two days of reports on this major golf and residential communities by Wednesday and Thursday.

PINEHURST THE CRADLE OF AMERICAN GOLF, sits on the tee for the end of the week. Because the famed Carolina Hotel is under a major renovation, I’ll look at that. Before wrapping it up at the Southern Pines Country Club, now reopened from the Kyle Franz renovation. Southern Pines is part of the Ross Resorts along with Mid-Pines and Pine Needles golf courses. Three Donald Ross golf course, all really good and must plays.

So as Covid-19 restrictions lift, it’s time to travel. So if your asking where to go, no worries. I’ll take you there. RS

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME on Rt.53 in Bolingbrook is open daily. But cooler weather this week, dome golf is on the tee. So stop in and practice with Toptracer, get a lesson, or be fitted for the needed new clubs. 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 or Facebook. At the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando Florida.

TODAY’S SUNDAY SHORT GAME will wrap up our coverage of the 2022 PGA Merchandise Show.

Because all of the product stories are done. But Part 2 of the winter trip starts tomorrow, with review of the destination properties I saw on the way home.

There are a few, in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. I know you will enjoy them.

But before the road trip home starts, lets wrap up the PGA Show and some other news of the week.

Golf Shot-for when you need both focus and mental clarity on the golf course.

TAKE THE SHOT-GOLF SHOT.

So do you find yourself needing to keep your focus and trying to mentally sharp when your out on the golf course.

IF so, try a blast of Golf Shot.

Golf Shot has been developed through years of scientific research. Golf Shot’s patented formula gives the golfer the stamina needed during 18 holes of golf.

Tired of all the previous energy drinks that aren’t giving you what you need during your round of golf. Take the Shot-Golf Shot, learn more at GetGolfShot.com or call (877)-876-9378.

What’s new in apparel. Antigua shows you the options, and what’s new for 22.

GOLF & SPORTS APPAREL.

Antigua a leader in golf and sports apparel, has plenty of new options when your ready to look sharp, both on and off the golf course.

New colors, new patterns, and new styles that feel great in any temperatures, and look great in any setting.

To hear more listen to our feature on the 2022 line below. ShopAntigua.com.

Tommy Scott of the Antigua Sales Team takes you through what’s new for 22.

PINE MEADNOW GOLF CLUB in Mundelein has opened the Driving range for the 2022 season. But the golf course is still closed. GM Dennis Johnsen HOPES to open the golf course the weekend of March 19th. (847)-566-4653 (GOLF).

CHRIS CHARNAS and LINKS CAPITAL ADVISORS have announced the sale of the Cimarron Resort in Cathedral California. So if your looking to buy or sell a golf course, contact Chris at (312)-543-7192.

NORTHWESTERN SR. David Nyfjall from Sweden, was named the Big Ten men’s Player of the week. Nyfjall’s score of 218 +5, was good enough for a 7th place finish. Playing at the Prestige, played at La Quinta in California.

DEERPATH GOLF CLUB in Lake Forest, has won a Top 50 in America Golf Range Association of America Award for 2021. This is the first GRAA Award for Deerpath golf Club. The club started work on the Lawn this past July, and the 30,000 square foot practice area will open July of this summer.

CLUB CHOICE IRELAND has announced that you can download it’s 2022 brochure from it’s website, ClubChoiceIreland.com. So isn’t it time to visit Ireland-travel restrictions have been relaxed.

DUPAGE GOLF IS HIRING-Weather permitting all three golf courses, Maple Meadows, The Preserve at Oak Meadows and the 9-Hole course Green Meadows. But you can learn more at DupageGolf.com

FOXFORD HILLS in CARY has two spring events coming up. So you can now sign up for the Spring Scramble on April 2nd. $75 dollars per player, the outing is a shotgun start at 9 Am. Call (847)-639-0400. GOLF UNDER THE STARS is May 14th with a 7 PM tee time. But a 5 PM dinner. cost is $400.00 per foursome.

GOLF FANS can now get complimentary tickets for the Western Golf Association’s Korn Ferry Tour championship, the NV5 Invitational at NV5invitational2022.com/tickets. This years tournament is May 26-29 at the Glen Club in Glenview.

Club Champion Willowbrook-home of the largest club fitting company in the world.

WILLOWBROOK BASED Club Champion has acquires UK-based custom fitter Golf Principals.

So this new agreement allows Club Champion to expand again beyond the borders of the United States (after expanding to Canada previously).

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Jason (MacNiven) and his team to the family here at Club Champion,” said Adam Levy CEO of Club Champion. “Their mission to help golfers play their best aligns perfectly with Club Champion and our goals for the future.”

So you can learn more at Clubchampiongolf.com.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out-returns tomorrow. RS

MISTWOOD GOLF COURSE-MISTWOOD GOLFDOME a year round Chicago area based golf operation. MARCH 12th the Pinehurst #2 tournament at the dome, played on Toptracer. Sign up today. Buy 3 dozen Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Balls, and get a 4th dozen free. NOT available everywhere. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call 9630)-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. At the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando Florida.

MEDTERRA CBD Still in the Game.

There was a change this year in the presentation of CBD products at the PGA Merchandise Show.

Because back in 2020 when the last show was held, there was some six or seven companies in Orlando at the show promoting their products.

The gummies, the roll-on cream. The capsules and the mixing powder.

But 2022 was different. So yes the show was smaller, and many of the CBD companies come from out in the western states. Was it not worth-it to to travel to the Florida this year. Why these companies were not in Florida remains a mystery. But one leading brand was still front-and-center in Orlando-MedTerra.

Laura Bucko is the Sales and Marketing manager for MedTerra.

MEDTERRA is a leader in the CBD industry and Laura Bucko the Sales Director for MedTerra says it’s because of the quality and variety of products that MedTerra is producing.

Because having a good variety is important. Some people take CDB pills, why other enjoy the tasty gummies.

But for aches and pains, the roll on cream is what works for other people. CBD is a product that works well for some people, and then not as good for others. While one CBD company can make a product that works for you, and their next product not as well. But the results can be amazing, and help put your body back in position to help you perform at your best. Both on and off the golf course.

SIR NICK FALDO says “Medterra has been a game-changer for me in my wellness routine-it’s part of my day-to-day regime and essential in staying in peak performance shape both physically and mentally.”

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with MedTerra’s Laura Bucko

MedTerra’s product line includes Drops, Gel Capsules, Topicals for pain recovery, Gummies, Tinctures and Chews (also for pets). So to learn more about which Medterra products might be right for you, see medterracbd.com or call (800)-987-1288.

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME is located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Chicago’s premier golf dome is home to Toptracer, where you can practice and dial in your yardage numbers, or play golf on some great courses. Play matches against your favorite foursome. But with outdoor golf season around the corner, it’s not to early to get a lesson. Do you need new clubs to improve your over all game, get fitted at Mistwood by the fitting team of Eric Russell and Matt Carter. So book your hitting bay today at MistwoodGolfdome.com or call the dome at (630)-739-7600. STARTING MARCH 15th, at Mistwood Golf Club you can buy three dozen Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Balls, and get a 4th dozen free through April 17th. Not every golf facility can offer this deal. More at 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 Facebook or LinkedIn.

Copper Tech Golf Gloves, was an exhibitor at the 2022 PGA Merchandise Show.

Copper an interesting component to add to a golf glove. But it works, and what first started with Copper Tech a Pocketec Company in Stuart Florida, has spread across the industry.

Because Copper Tech first created a product that was not only a good solid golf glove, but it infused the technology of copper into a leather glove. So what does copper do, to help golfers wearing the glove.

Copper Tech says it supports improved circulation and oxygenation of working muscles and joints in the hand. The glove material keeps sweat away from the hand, to prevent chaffing, rashes and odor. Copper Tech Gloves stretch, so that one-size glove will fit most hand sizes.

The Spider Tacky Phantom Gripp.- A limited edition.

Copper tech gloves are available in both lefthanded and righthanded styles.

The Copper Tech gloves are available for both men and women. So for more information women’s products, please visit LadyClassic.com.

Do you hands suffer from arthritis, or other issues with your fingers or joints.

If so it’s time to look at gloves from an industry leader, that will help reduce pain or swelling while you golf, or use gloves for other chores.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Lloyd Cohn the CEO/President of Pocketec Inc.

Cohn broke two fingers at an early age, and the injury continued to affect him for years. So Cohn designed a glove to help relieve the discomfort he experienced for years, while golfing and doing other every day tasks.

So if you need more from your golf glove than just one that helps you grip the golf club. Check out Copper Tech Gloves at Coppertechglove.com

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME is located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook and open daily. So with outdoor golf season coming up quickly, now is the time to practice with Toptracer. But if your game needs a tune-up, get a lesson from the Mistwood professional staff or fitted for new clubs. Book a hitting today at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

ZIEHM & SPEARS IS LEN ZIEHM & RORY SPEARS. Len has covered golf for over 50 years, and is in the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame and won numerous ING awards for writing, podcasting and golf radio. Rory has covered golf in Chicago for over 30 years, and has won four ING awards for golf radio, podcasting and feature writing. After years in the Chicago area, Len now resides mostly in Sarasota FL, & Rory in Arlington Heights IL.

LEN ZIEHM (L) and RORY SPEARS (R) on the deck at Ziehm studio’s in Sarasota, overlooking Palm Aire Country Club. Photo by Joy Sarver.

ZIEHM & SPEARS PODCAST SERIES 2022-Volume 5 is here.

Ziehm and Spears are back with another week of golf talk, that covers the Chicago area and beyond.

This week Len and Rory discuss this weeks Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. Because the course set up is tough. Then what’s happening to keep the Bay Hill buzz going, without Arnold Palmer still around to add his touch to the weeks events.

Zach Johnson gets named Ryder Cup Captain for 2023. But was it his turn, Len and Rory think so.

Mike Benkusky heads up the renovation for Nickol Knoll Park in Arlington Hts.. But can the 9-hole par 3 course be named for late Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton. Because Payton used to train there in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.

The Chicago area local players competing on the Korn Ferry Tour, and the PGA Tour. The Western Golf Associations (WGA) Korn Ferry Tour NV5 tournament at the Glen Club.

CLICK HERE to hear this weeks edition of Ziehm and Spears Podcast Series 2022, Volume 5.

Thanks for listening-Len and Rory.

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME & MCWETHY’S SPORTSBAR in the dome, make for a great day of golf, food and fun. So bring your clubs and your appetite and get ready for the golf season ahead. Mistwood Golf Dome Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook (630)-739-7600 #MGD

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.

Talon Golf Founder Spencer Hadelman shows off some of the new apparel line, that features real comfortable clothing.

SPENCER HADELMAN

Chicago area golfers might not know the name. But Spencer Hadelman of Chicago is one person you will know more about in the months ahead.

Because Hadelman has taken his background in marketing, and used it to create a golf apparel line that not only looks sharp, but is really comfortable.

While part of Hadelman’s line is golf gloves and hats, the Beanie’s are great while outside in cold weather. But they are also as comfortable as the t-shirts and hoodies that one can sink into and relax.

With Hadelman’s marketing experience that’s already working with big name golf resorts in Central Wisconsin and the Coast of Oregon, add in the Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA) and one can see how the apparel side of Hadelman’s business should continue to grow.

The new Talon golf glove.

But one more reason Hadelman’s apparel line should continue to expand, is the cost.

During these inflationary times, and costs on many things getting higher, Hadelman’s vision is to sell good products at a better price.

That is something he is doing.

IS A $25 or $30 golf glove getting to be a little too much. Might the Talon-Eagle glove at $15.00 sound a little better. Talon-Eagle is solid and won’t wear easily in the places that gloves normally do.

When you paying $40.00 or more for a t-shirt, might a real soft one, with the Talon Golf logo work better at $30.00. So forget the $90.00 hoodies and enjoy Talon’s hoodies for $65.00, which are perfect to lay around in as you lower the thermostat this winter to avoid atrocious heating bills.

How does Hadelman do it, click on to the interview below.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Spencer Hadelman of Advantage Marketing.

So golfers if you need some really good looking and better yet comfortable golf apparel, check out Talongolfco.com. See the full range of products and look sharp for the golf seasons ahead.

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME is the place to be until Mistwood Golf Course opens next month. So be ready for outdoor season with a Toptracer practice session indoors, or get a lesson from the Mistwood professional staff. Time for new clubs? Then go get fitted at the dome. Details at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome at (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 or Facebook. On Payton’s Hill at Nickol Knoll Park in Arlington Hts. (Photo by Mike Benkusky)

THE ARLINGTON HEIGHTS PARK DISTRICT has given architect Mike Benkusky the green light, to start the master planning for a renovation of the Nickol Knoll Park par-3 golf course.

Because the late great NFL Hall of Famer and Chicago Bears running back, Walter Payton would train there when he was a resident of Arlington Heights, the park is often referred to as Payton’s Hill.

While there have been changes to the park over the years, the area Payton used to run-in, is partially still intact. But another part of the area, is now the golf course. The Arlington Heights Park District has put a few plaques and markers up to honor Payton, and his time spent running on the hill.

Architect Mike Benkusky gets the call from the Arlington Heights Park District to work on the northside of town this time, at Payton’s Hill.

While the golf course is fun and golfers can play it quickly, it has started to show it’s age.

So it’s time for golf course be improved, and the park to be reconnected with the Payton name.

But with Arlington Heights now a possible future home for the Chicago Bears. The time is right to renovate the golf course and promote it’s history with Payton.

Benkusky a golf course architect architect for 25 years, is based in Lake in the Hills. He did the popular renovation of the Arlington Lakes Golf Club. Benkusky just finished work on the Champions Course at the Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota. Additionally he is currently working with long time Western Amateur home, Point O’Woods Golf Club in Benton Harbor Michigan.

The par 3 third hole, could have some length and elevation added from the back tee boxes.

Current Daily Herald golf columnist and former Nickol Knoll neighbor Len Ziehm offered these thoughts on the renovation project.

“I’m delighted to learn that Mike Benkusky will be doing a renovation of the Nickol Knoll golf course in Arlington Heights. Nickol Knoll was one of my favorite places to golf, when I lived on Happfield Drive. Located across the street from the golf course for 16 years. By coincidence, Mike has just finished a well-received renovation at the Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota where I now have a membership. I’m sure he will do a similarly fine job in updating Nickol Knoll.”

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with architect Mike Benkusky. Benkusky will create the masterplan and oversee the upcoming renovation, at Nickol Knoll Park.

Golfers on Golf will continue to follow the renovation story for the Nickol Knoll as it develops. RS.