THE GOG BLOG’S SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME-EARLY EDITION

GREAT WATERS at Lake Oconee, Greensboro Georgia. The renovated Jack Nicklaus design is among Georgia’s best golf courses. ReynoldslakeOconee.com 6 golf courses

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.

LAB Special Edition putters-for the green week.

LAB PUTTERS

A  special edition or three are now available from LAB Putters.

LAB is calling these three new limited edition models, a Trio unlike any other.

But with names like DF 2.1 Augusta. A-Mezz Corner, and B.2 Magnolia, who can go wrong.

Each of these special edition putters comes with the Breakthrough Technology Shaft and special edition putter cover. So go build your LAB Putter starting at $999.99. LABGolf.com

TAYLORMADE CARBON WOODS Fitting Days at Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein are now schedule for April 21st and June 2nd from 1-5 PM. So call the pro shop for an appointment at (847)-566-4653 (GOLF).

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS Senior Tommy Kuhl is the Big Ten Men’s Golfer of the Week. Kuhl finished in sixth place with a -9 score at the Augusta Haskins Award Invitational. Illinois is action this weekend at the Purdue Boilermaker Invitational in West Lafayette Indiana.

SHOT SCOPE’S new PRO LX+

SHOT SCOPE has launched the new PRO LX+, the first range finder in golf to include GPS-Powered Distances.

PRO LX+ is three innovative devices sold as one unit. But there is a PRO LX and the H4 Game Tracker.

Because what PRO LX+ offers, is all the on-course technology golfers need in one system.

“Shot Scope is thrilled to unveil this game changing device to golfers worldwide, as we introduce GPS distance and performance tracking technology to laser rangefinder users,” said David Hunter, CEO Shot Scope. “Our V3 Smart Watch was a tremendous success when it launched in 2020, and now we are bringing that same artificial intelligence to rangefinders. With a price point for every budget.”

Pro LX+ System was announced at the 2022 PGA Show in January and received rave reviews. The Shot scope PRO LX+ is available for $349.99 SRP. Colors are blue, gray and orange.

Shot Scope PRO LX is sold for $249.99. The H4 Game Tracker is $149.99. But features on the devices include, Tour-Level Statistics such as Strokes Gained, Interactive features, Course Hub and Social Share. Shot Scope products can be purchased at Dicks Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, PGA Tour Superstores. But for more information see Shotscope.com.

WILMETTE BASED LINKS CAPITAL ADVISORS and Chris Charnas have made the largest sale of a Wisconsin golf course since 2009, with the sale of Troy Burne in Hudson Wisconsin. Charnas says the market is hot and it’s time to buy or sell. But for more information call Chris at (312)-543-7192 or Linkscapitaladvisors.com.

HAYLEY HARFORD a rookie on the LPGA Tour with connections to the Myrtle Beach area, has partnered with Golf Tourist Solutions to be a Myrtle Beach golf ambassador. But for more information see Playgolfmyrtlebeach.com

Club Champion studio’s in Willowbrook.

WILLOWBROOK BASED CLUB CHAMPION.

Has announced the opening of four more locations across the country, bringing the national total of stores to 93.

So new locations include Sanford FL., Ann Arbor Michigan, Mt. Pleasant SC., and Charlottesville VA. So learn more at Clubchampiongolf.com. More studio’s and more options.

THE RIVER HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB in Little River South Carolina part of the Founders Group Network, will close this June 20 and reopen on August 21st. The closure is part of a course renovation. Because the course will redo it’s greens with TifEagle Bermuda and bunkers Capillary Concrete bunker liners.

Founders Group International worked with original course architect Tom Jackson, to create the new master plan. Because there is a need to increase green size and restore surfaces by up to 40%, this will increase pinnable areas. So learn more about the renovation at FoundersGolf.com, or RiverHillsGolf.com.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out will return on Monday. RS

KATIE KEARNEY TO JOIN GOLF360 TV

REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE For when golf in Georgia is on your mind. Six courses and plenty of activities, with homesites still available. Details at Reynoldslakeoconee.com.

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf, follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, or connect with Rory on LinkedIn or Facebook.

Chicago’s Katie Kearney joins Golf 360 TV.

“Links” Dave Lockhart creator of Links Lager Beer, and Golf360TV has now announced the Chicago’s very own Katie Kearney has joined Golf360TV.

Kearney a model and social media influencer is an avid golfer, and has almost 450,000 followers on Instagram.

Kearney’s father Tim, played with various NFL teams between the years of 1972-1980.

Golf360TV will return in June, and issues will be shown up to 10 times per month on NBC Sports Chicago.

Former Chicago Bear long snapper, Patrick Mannelly returns for another year. Golf 360TV is now entering it’s 8th season. So check local listings for air-times and dates.

WHITE EAGLE TO HOST 2023 WOMEN’S WESTERN AMATEUR

GREAT WATERS CLUBHOUSE (L) AND THE 18TH GREEN AT GREAT WATERS (R). When Georgia’s on your mind. reynoldslakeoconee.com Georgia’s top golf destination.

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.

DIRECTOR OF GOLF CURTIS MALM (L) and the White Eagle Golf Club are going to welcome another top amateur golf championship to the club.

White Eagle Golf Club in Naperville will host the 2023 Women’s Western Golf Associations (WWGA) amateur championship. Coming up this August, the club will host it’s second Illinois Open Championship in three years.

White Eagle was awarded the 2022 Illinois Open last fall by the Illinois PGA, after an extremely successful hosting of the open in 2020.

Last fall, Director of Golf Curtis Malm, announced White Eagle’s over 10 million dollar series of improvements. Work will be spread out over the remainder of the decade.

But there is no announcement yet, of the 2023 WWGA Junior Championship. But this years WWGA Championships will both be in the Chicago area.

The WWGA Amateur Championship will be played in July, at the Sunset Ridge Country Club in Northfield. While the WWGA Junior Championship will be held in June at the Prestwick Country Club, in South Suburban Frankfort.  This years junior girls championship at Prestwick, is the 50th anniversary of the first of three straight wins in the event by the great Nancy Lopez. Lopez won her first title at Prestwick in 1972.

More details at wwga.org.

KEMPERSPORTS HIRES TWO NEW GENERAL MANAGERS

GREAT WATERS by Jack Nicklaus (L) and The Oconee Course by Rees Jones (R). So when Georgia is on your mind-Reynolds Lake Oconee. Georgia’s top golf destination only 64 miles from Augusta National. Six golf courses-see ReynoldsLakeOconee.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 or Facebook.

The Clubhouse at Royal Melbourne in Long Grove IL.

NORTHBROOK BASED KEMPERSPORTS has announced the hiring of Chris Stewart as the new general manger at Royal Melbourne Country Club. The club is located Long Grove Illinois.

Stewart will be leading the club in it’s efforts to deliver a best-in-class experience for it’s members. Stewart will oversee it’s business, food and beverage and golf, plus other recreation operations.

“Chris brings more than 20 years of private club experience to Royal Melbourne. He believes in delivering unique personalized experiences. That blend past tradition with modern expectations,” said, KemperSports Executive Vice of Operations Mark Freemott. “He is committed to helping both current and future members find their path of enjoyment within the club. So this will make him an excellent fit for Royal Melbourne.”

Stewart joins Royal Melbourne with years of experience in working corporate-owned clubs. But also in single owner facilities and developer owned clubs. Both as a general manager and in other roles. More recently Stewart was general manager at the River Club in Mequon Wisconsin.

ROYAL MELBOURNE is home to an 18 hole par 72 championship golf course. The club has played host to the Illinois Open and the Women’s Western Amateur Championship. So for more information visit Royalmelbourne.net.

Canal Shores is located in Evanston Illinois.

KEMPERSPORTS has announced Tom Grey as the new general manager of Canal Shores Golf Course in Evanston Illinois.

Grey will oversee the business and golf operations. But will lead the Canal Shores team in providing an exceptional guest experience for all golfers.

“Tom is a proven industry veteran who brings a variety of experience in the golf industry. Which include previous roles with KemperSports municipal golf facilities and the Chicago Park District,” said KemperSports Vice President of Operations Vince Juarez. ” Because of his ties to the local community and game of golf. This makes Grey an excellent fit for Canal Shores.”

Grey rejoins KemperSports after serving as the sales and golf operations manager at Marriott Lincolnshire’s-Crane’s Landing Golf Club. Additionally, Grey has had several roles at various clubs in Illinois and Florida. But Grey also had the honor in 1993, to caddie for Jack Nicklaus in several tour events. Including both the U.S. Open and PGA Championship.

Grey is a native of Winnetka and an alumnus of New Trier High School. Grey played on the golf team all four years. But for more information on Canal Shores, please visit Canalshores.org or call the course at (847)-475-9173.

ZIEHM & SPEARS THE PODCAST SERIES 2022-VOLUME 8

HERITAGE OAKS IN NORTHBROOK now open in April for the first time in two years, and with a newly built clubhouse and remodeled driving range. Learn more about the new golf facility by visiting HeritageOaksgc.com or by calling the club-(847)-291-2351.

LEN ZIEHM (L) & RORY SPEARS (R) at the Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota Florida.

ZIEHM & SPEARS THE PODCAST

Len Ziehm who has covered golf in for over 50 years and is a 2019 inductee into the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame, teams up with long time Chicago area golf media member Rory Spears for the Ziehm and Spears Podcast Series.

Both Ziehm and Spears are multiple ING award winners, including a 2021 ING award for podcasting.

THIS WEEK Ziehm and Spears discuss Masters Week and make their picks to win (hint it won’t be the comeback guy).

But the weeks big topic is golf course and golf club improvements. Len and Rory talk many of the area facilities that have spent the money to get better. Because in today’s competitive golf market, if your not innovating, renovating, or restoring your golf facilities you are being left behind.

Because like most things in life, golfers are anxious to practice and play at new facilities and new courses. Both Len and Rory are looking forward to visiting the new Kelpie’s Pub at Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville. Golfers can take the new stone bridge out to the pub, built on the lake off the 8th hole fairway.

CLICK HERE to hear this weeks Podcast of Ziehm and Spears. Series 2022-Volume 8.

Thanks for listening-Len & Rory.

TITLEIST ANNOUNCES NEW SCOTTY CAMERON PHANTOM X

HERITAGE OAKS in Northbrook is open in April for the first time in two years. Walking for now. But carts are coming back soon. HeritageOaksGC.com or (847)-291-2351. So does our cold and rainy spring weather have you down. Visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com. The indoor season is not over quite yet, book a bay (630)-739-7600 Rt. 53 Bolingbrook

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.

New from Scotty Cameron the Phantom X Putters.

TITLEIST HAS ANNOUNCED the latest from custom putter designer Scotty Cameron.

Seven new models hit the stores and pro shops on April 15th. But three more options are coming out on June 17th.

The 2022 Phantom X mallet putter line has new head shapes, and there are updates to the popular models of the past.

Because the new Phantom X grips have a new texture, new graphics and a premium style. But the Tour-preferred milled 303 stainless steel face construction carries through on every model.

“Each time I develop a line of putters, the new models go into the hands of the best players in the world. So from Tour players, we get critical insight into what works for them-what they are looking for-both overall and specifically. From the type of neck configurations to topline thickness, to the sound and feel from the various types of materials we use, professionals know what they want.” said Cameron.

“I’ve always taken my design cues from what the best in the world demand. But with these new Phantom X mallets, I have the benefit of the past few years of input from players and a line that’s already established on tour. The 2022 Phantom X mallets feature the ‘greatest hits’ of what we’ve developed-the solid stainless-steel faces, new necks. The new shapes-rolled out high-end, premium precision milled mallets designed to inspire us all to play better. But I believe there’s a putter in this line that will appeal to just about every mallet player.” said Cameron.

So what arrives in April 15th. Phantom X 5. Phantom X 5.5, Phantom X 7, Phantom X 7.5, Phantom X 9, Phantom X 9.5, Phantom X 12. But coming on June 17th is the Phantom X 5’s, the Phantom X 11, and the Phantom X 11.5.

Scotty Cameron is already the winningest putter brand on the PGA Tour for 2021-2022, with nine victories. Justin Thomas, Max Homa, Garrick Higgo, C.T. Pan and Will Zalatoris all play various models of the Phantom X putter.

The MAP is $429.00. Putter lengths can be 33-34-35″ inches. So learn more about the Phantom models that could be right for for you at ScottyCameron.com

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT-LEFTY WINS AT AUGUSTA

HERITAGE OAKS IS OPEN IN APRIL for the first time in two years. But while it’s currently walking only-that could change soon. So stay tuned. IF YOU haven’t checked out the new clubhouse it’s time to do so, and range now has Trackman. Check out Heritage Oaks Golf Club on Dundee Road in Northbrook and visit HeritageOaks.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 or Facebook. Putting is the real key this week. On the 14th hole at Southern Pines Country Club in NC.

LEFTY WINS IN AUGUSTA!

What a headline that is. Too bad it’s not likely to happen this Sunday, instead of last Saturday.

Congratulations to Anna Davis the 16 year old left-handed golfer from California who won the Augusta Women’s Amateur.

Not bad being 16 years old and having won a championship at the Augusta National Golf Club, live on network television. With a final round 69 (-3) I might add.

Davis the new queen of bucket hats still doesn’t have a drivers license yet. So she has had to bum some rides to tournaments from her friends and teammates. As of now everyone is probably willing to drive her around if needed.

THE NEXT CHALLENGE is for the Women’s Western Golf Association (WWGA) to make sure they get Davis in the field for one of their tournaments this summer. The WWGA Amateur is in July (18-23) at Sunset Ridge in Northfield. The WWGA Junior Girls is June 20-24 at the Prestwick Country Club in Frankfort. 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Nancy Lopez’s first win in the event (Lopez won the title three times).

Boys 12-13 year old national champion Michael Jorski of Clarendon Hills, who plays much of his golf at Cog Hill.

CONGRATULATIONS to all of the local juniors who made it to Augusta National for the finals of Drive-Chip and Putt. All five of our Illinois locals did pretty good, even if their age in their age bracket worked against them a bit. Because it can be tough when some kids you are competing against, are almost two years older than you.

But kudo’s to Michael Jorski of Clarendon Hills, who won the national championship. Jorski needed to make up ground in the final stage, which was the putting. Jorski drained the 30 footer and after a fist-pump, he left his second try on the 15 foot putt, only 8 inches short. But that only got Jorski into a playoff. His 1-putt playoff, saw him get his putt less than two feet from the cup and beat out his opponent by about 1 inch. So not a big margin of victory, but enough to get the job done.

Kelpie’s Island Pub at Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville.

IT WAS REALLY NEAT to hear about the new Kelpie’s Island Pub at Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville.

For years I would like to tell the late Jim McWethy who owned Mistwood, that he should do something with the lake, that runs along the 8th hole of the front nine, and 14-17 (Kelpie’s Corner) on the back side.

Now all the island is missing is an architect Ray Hearn sod wall bunker. The stone bridge enters the pub from the 8th hole. So learn more at Mistwoodgc.com.

NOW WHO is the distraction? I hear that the ANGC might have politely asked Phil Mickelson not to play in this years Masters. They didn’t tell him he couldn’t, but suggested they didn’t want somebody making a comeback that week, and being a distraction to the tournament.

So Phil drops out and what do we have now. Another guy potentially making a comeback and being a real distraction Masters week. Think about that one for a minute or two. It kind of leaves you wishing Phil would say, I’m playing.

The Gog Blog returns tomorrow. RS

THE GOG BLOG’S SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME-NEWS COLUMN

HERITAGE OAKS for the first time since 2020, is open in April. But walking only for a few days, the range is open. Learn more and visit HeritageOaksgc.com (847)-291-2351

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MARCH 24: L-R Willy Borkowski, Bob Tierney of PXG and Rory Spears Golfers on Golf at the PXG Chicago West Grand Opening Celebration on March 24, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear).

WHAT A MORNING…

CONGRATULATIONS to all of our local Drive-Chip and Putt Augusta National qualifiers.

But Michael Jorski of Clarendon Hills, is the National Champion in the Boys 12-13 age group. Michael well done.

THE FIGHTING ILLINI sit in 4th place as they head into the final round of the Haskins Award Invitational at the Forest Hills Golf Club in Augusta Georgia.

Tommy Kuhl with rounds of 71 and 65 leads the Illini, as they head into Sunday’s final round of play.

THROUGH APRIL 10th, you can save $50.00 on the Callaway 250+ range finder, complete with both Slope and Pulse technology. But for more details or information call Pine Meadow at (847)-566-4653.

PINE MEADOW also welcomes Ray Juskas as it’s new club fitter. Juskas who has done over 1500 club fittings in his career, will be at Pine Meadow on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 Am to 6 Pm. PineMeadowgc.com.

CLUB CHOICE OF IRELAND announces that the Taste of Wexford golf event is on for September 18-22 of 2022. But the event is limited to 22 teams. So for more information view ClubChoiceIreland.com.

The evolving Edison Wedges over the years.

EDISON GOLF WEDGES have made a change in their standard graphite shafts.

While Edison had been using the KBS TGI 80 in three flexes. But now has upgraded to a KBS PGI (Players Graphite Iron) Series shaft.

As a result there are three new shaft options available. The new options include KBS PGI 80 in ‘A’ flex. A KBS PGI 90 in Regular Flex, and the KBS PGI 100 in Stiff flex.

“We believe there should be a seamless transition from the shafts in your irons to your wedges,” said Terry Kohler, Edison Chairman and Director of Innovation. “But the only way to get that is by making sure the material weight, and flex of the shafts are consistent from your short irons into your wedges. Learn more at EdisonWedges.com

VOLVIK USA has announced the release of the new VIVID Line of golf balls. VIVID is the #1 matte finish ball in golf. Because with this release Volvik continues it’s visual appeal of golf balls. See more at Volvik.com.

“For golfers accustomed to the outstanding characteristics of the Volvik VIVID ball, as well as for players who will be discovering VIVID for the first time, the new 2022 line will provide superb distance, accuracy and visibility,” said Wes Whittingham, vice president of sales for Volvik USA. VIVID is a 75 compression 3-piece construction golf ball. Color options include green, red, orange, pink, yellow, pink, blue, white and purple.

The Nemacolin Resort in Nemacolin PA. south of Pittsburgh.

NEMACOLIN RESORT in Nemacolin PA. just south of Pittsburgh, has announced a Golf watch party for April 9th and 10th.

The party will be hosted by nine time winner on the PGA Tour/PGA Tour Champions Rocco Mediate and Swing Clinic co-host Taylor Cusack.

The party runs from 2-7 p.m. each day, and is $150.00 per person per-day, it includes open bar, plenty of bites, with come and go seating. Guests can enjoy the academy’s four simulators, that have Trackman and Swing Catalyst. But for those needing work on their putting stroke, the Putting Room is open. So to reserve a place at the watch party, call the resort at (866)-344-6957. To learn more about Nemacolin see Nemacolin.com.

New Balance Blue with Fresh Foam Contend

BOSTON BASED NEW BALANCED, has announced the release of it’s new Fresh Foam Content shoes.

Fresh Foam Contend comes with a reengineered midsole, to add support and comfort in each step.

The latest from New Balance are both waterproof and spikeless.

Fresh Foam Contend weight only 12.2 oz. and come in the colors of White, Black/Grey, Navy/Blue, Grey/Red, and White/Green* a limited edition. Sizes are 8-12, 13, 14 Widths are D, 2E, 4E. 45 day Comfort warranty, priced at $99.95. But more details can be found at newbalance.com.

See the Highlands at Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena Illinois.

ARE YOU READY For a GOLFCATION

So yes you are. It’s time to put Eagle Ridge on your summer of 2022 calendar.

Because Eagle Ridge has made many improvements in the last couple of years. Covid has not slowed down progress at the Eagle Ridge Resort.

Whether it’s on the golf course, or in the clubhouse or the spa. So it’s time to return to Eagle Ridge, or make it your first visit if you have never been a guest. Because there are special rates for those who come and visit from Sunday to Thursday. Learn more at EagleRidge.com.

DUNLOP SPORTS AMERICAS is coming to golf, and working it’s name along with Srixon, Cleveland and XXIO products. So look for logo changes on professional golfers including the defending champion Hideki Matsuyama at this years first major coming up this week.

THE ILLINOIS JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION has announced it has created it’s own Hall of Fame.

THE IJGA board of directors has voted to create a HOF, and will induct six inaugural members on July 25th. PGA Tour player Kevin Streelman originally from Wheaton, will be one of the six inductee’s.

“The Illinois Junior Golf Association (IJGA) is excited to announce the creation of the IJGA Hall of Fame to recognize the most significant people in the history of junior golf in the state,” said Ed Stevenson, president of the IJGA Board of Directors. “We are proud to honor the players, the administrators, teachers and others who have played vital roles in growing golf in the state of Illinois.”

Inductee’s in addition to Streelman, include Mike Spinello a former resident of Buffalo Grove who founded the organization in 1967. He grew the number of tournaments from 3 to 21. Spinello is a member of the IPGA HOF.

John and Jean Barney of Glenview, who were volunteers for 23 years, and John Barney served as the first president and executive director. The Barney’s were inducted into the IPGA HOF in 1997.

Frank Jemsek, owner of Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Palos Park. Jemsek is a member of the IPGA HOF.

Blue Kinander Kelly of Wheaton, who served on the IJGA board for years, before coming President. Kelly’s son Tee-K is the reigning Illinois Open champion.

Dan Kochevar of Glen Ellyn, the 2015 IPGA Teacher of the Year. Kochevar founded the DuPage County Junior Classic, a major event on the IJGA calendar. Kochevar has served on the IJGA board for years and is a past president.

The induction ceremony will be July 25th at Cantigny Golf in Wheaton. Streelman will be the featured guest in a Q & A with former IJGA president Barry Cronin. Information on dinner tickets for the induction ceremony will be released at a later date.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out returns tomorrow. RS

ILLINOIS SENDS 5 TO AUGUSTA NATIONAL FOR D-C AND PUTT

THE NEW ISLAND PUB at Mistwood Golf on Lake Kelpie. So just off the 8th fairway, is the new pub at the Mistwood Golf Club. BUT THE NEW PXG GOLF STORE is now open in Oak Brook Terrace. South of Roosevelt Road. Clubs & Apparel visit PXG.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 or Facebook.

Martha Kuwahara of Northbrook will compete in the Girls (14-15) year old age bracket. Michael Jorski from Clarendon Hills is in the Boys (12-13) year old age group.

Martha Kuwahara who plays most of her golf at the Glen Club, advanced to Augusta for the first time after advancing from the Medinah Country Club Regional Qualifier.

CLICK HERE to hear the interview with Martha Kuwahara-Girls 14-15 age group.

Michael Jorski plays his golf out of the Cog Hill Golf & Country Club. But for Jorski this is his second trip to Augusta for Drive-Chip and Putt. Because Jorski qualified in 2018 while his family still lived in Kansas. So he does know what competing at Augusta National is like.

CLICK HERE to hear the interview with Michael Jorski of the Boys 12-13 age group.

Eloise Fetzer (L) of La Grange will compete in the Girls (7-9) year old age group. Ledius Felipe from Popular Grove heads to Augusta and is in the Boys (10-11) age group.

But recorded interviews with Eloise and Ledius are not available due to a technical difficulty*** GOG regrets the situation.

Eloise Fetzer makes her first trip to Augusta, after advancing through the Broken Arrow GC local qualifier, the Sub-Regional at Royal Fox CC and the Regional Qualifier at the Medinah Country Club. She finished first at all three qualifiers. Fetzer plays her golf at the La Grange Country Club. Eloise says she is best at Chipping.

Ledius Felipe makes his first trip to Augusta. Felipe was third at the Beloit Club in Wisconsin. But he was first at the Sub-Regional at the Legend at Bergamont, and First at Medinah in the Regional Qualifier. Ledius says he plays most of his golf at Aldeen Golf Club in Rockford, and putting is his best strength.

LISA COPELAND was not able to attend media day. Because Copeland is being home schooled so she could work on her game this past winter in Florida. Because this is her second trip to Augusta she knows what it’s like at Augusta. But she last competed in 2017. Lisa says her chipping is the best part of her game.

THE Drive-Chip and Putt finals are Sunday morning at the Augusta National Golf Club, but will be shown on The Golf Channel.

PXG GOLF OPENS IN OAK BROOK TERRACE

THE NEW PUB AT MISTWOOD GOLF CLUB (L) Kelpie’s Pub off the 8th tee, is now open. A great spot to enjoy a Mistwood 100. MistwoodGC.com or call for your tee time at (815)-254-3333. HERITAGE OAKS in Northbrook is open for season. But for now it’s walking only, carts coming soon, range open. HeritageoaksGC.com or (847)-291-2351.

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.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MARCH 24: Willy Borkowski-Bob Tierney of PXG and Rory Spears (L-R) of Golfers on Golf attend the PXG Chicago West Grand Opening Celebration on March 24, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty for PXG)

PXG OAK BROOK TERRACE IS OPEN.

The Grand Opening is in the books, and PXG Golf now has it’s second Chicago area store now open.

Last week opening night took place with a store full of VIP’s on-hand.

Several media members from the Chicago area, joined avid golfers and a few social media influencers, PXG Golf owner Bob Parsons for fun times and plenty of golf talk.

But Parsons made it clear to his guests, that PXG is better than ever, both in golf and apparel.

One thing that stood out, is the amount of apparel now found in a PXG Golf store. Because the line is expanding.

THE NEW PXG store is located just into Oak Brook Terrace, just over the border from Lombard. On the southside of Roosevelt Road, in the plaza behind the Anyways Restaurant.

NEW PXG DRIVERS (L) new PXG Irons (R) what Generation are you these days, a Gen. 4 or a Gen. 5.

NEW PXG shirts in the apparel line.

BECAUSE IF YOUR thinking of ordering new golf clubs this year, supply chain issue’s are not setting back PXG.

But Parson’s says that with his clubs, there is no need to wait a long period of time to get your new PXG’s.

PXG says they will ship newly fit and ordered clubs within a week.

So to learn more about PXG, listen in on our exclusive interview with PXG owner Bob Parsons at the new Oak Brook Terrace store.

CLICK HERE to hear the Voice of those PXG ad’s Bob Parsons as he talks everything that is PXG Golf.

The new PXG Oak Terrace Store has multiple hitting and fitting bays, with plenty of apparel to try-on. But fittings are by appointment only Monday-Saturday 9 Am to 7 Pm. 10 Am to 5 pm on Sunday. So learn more at PXG.com.