SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has three simulators that are open daily. So now is the time to start getting ready for the outdoor golf season. Come and enjoy Chandlers Chophouse and play the Schaumburg Golf Club on the simulators before the club opens for the outdoor season. Lessons and Fittings are available. For more details please visit Schaumburggolf.com or call the club 401 N. Roselle at (847)-885-9000.

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

Welcome to the Country Club of North Carolina in Pinehurst NC.

PINEHURST NORTH CAROLINA is known as “The Home of American Golf” starting at the Pinehurst Resort with courses created by the famed architect Donald Ross.

Pinehurst has and will continue to host tournaments like the U.S. Open’s and the U.S. Amateur.

The Pinehurst and Sandhills area is great place for golf, and Pinehurst is not the only resort in town. But it’s not the only great golf facility either. Because just down the street from the resort, sits one of the great private clubs in America. The 36 hole Country Club of North Carolina is a private facility, but has a great history in addition to the two outstanding golf courses within the club.

Because golfers can’t go wrong on either of CCNC’s two-championship golf courses, Dogwood and Cardinal. Dogwood has been on several Top 100 lists over the years.

The first green on the Dogwood Course at CCNC.

The clubs rich history starts in 1962 when a group of local businessmen, found the right piece of property.

That piece of property was 900-acres of land, with plenty of sand and pine tree’s and sits on a stretch of land between Pinehurst and the neighboring town of Southern Pines.

The original owner John Warren Watson, a Philadelphia engineer had a dream to build a golf course and hotel on the property. But those plans never came to be before Watson passed away, but his home still stands today on the property.

The par-3 third hole on the CCNC-Dogwood course.

Raleigh account Dick Urquhart, Greensboro investment banker Hargrove “Skipper” Bowles, Greensboro builder Griswold Smith, and attorney James Poyner became the four founding members.

But it didn’t take them long to recruit over three dozen other charter members, that represented a Who’s Who of North Carolina to join the club.

From there Atlanta based planner Willard Byrd, and Donald Ross Protege’ Ellis Maples, to design the community and golf course.

The par-4 11th hole on the Dogwood golf course.

Golf at the club started in December of 1963, with two nines-Longleaf and Dogwood.

These proved to be so popular that Byrd was brought back to build a third nine hole course. The land was acquired in a property trade with the Tuft family who owned Pinehurst.

But by 1970, more land was needed, and then acquired from Robert Trent Jones. But as part of the deal, Jones was hired to build nine more holes, the two 18 hole courses were then re-named Dogwood and Cardinal.

Dogwood plays to a par of 72, and over 7,300 yards from the back tees. But Cardinal isn’t much shorter at a par of 72, and yardage that plays over 7,200 yards.

Championship golf arrived in 1965 with the club hosting the North Carolina State Amateur. By 1971 and 1972 it played host to the U.S. Professional Match Play Championships (Jack Nicklaus won in 1972). Hal Sutton won the U.S. Amateur in 1980, the first of the USGA championships the club has hosted.

The club has kept up with the times by having architects Arthur Hills renovate Cardinal in 2001, and Kris Spence update Dogwood in 2016. Jeff Dotson the clubs head golf professional, has been there over 30 years.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with the Country Club of North Carolina’s long time head golf professional Jeff Dotson.

The club offers several activities in addition to golf. Because other options include hiking, fishing, racquets, health club, and a swimming pool. Dotson says there are multiple categories of membership, with openings in some of the membership categories.

Dotson says the club has hosted numerous North Carolina amateur championships, but a USGA Championship could still be years away.

But since the club is private, visitors wishing to play CCNC would need a member invitation. Because the area of Pinehurst and Moore County is quickly seeing it’s population growing, the club’s membership could grow as well. For more information on the Country Club of North Carolina please visit ccofnc.com.

Sitting in the shadow of the Pinehurst Resort, the Country Club of North Carolina provides one of the top private golf experiences in America.

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB 401 North Roselle Road-minutes from Woodfield Mall has three simulators open daily. The simulators sit downstairs from the award winning pro shop and Chandlers Chop House, that brings your food to your hitting bay. So this week on Wednesday from 3-7 Pm is a Callaway fitting event. But you must pre-register. For more information visit Schaumburggolf.com or call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook. In the Sqairz booth at the 2023 PGA Show in Orlando FL.

PAIGE & SHOE TIME!

The 2023 Chicago Golf Show is in the books, but it’s a three day successful event that shows Chicago golfers are ready for the season to start.

I spent the show working with a 30 year+ long time friend & golf professional Mike Weiler, now the Director of Golf at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena.

In fact I worked with Weiler in Milwaukee the weekend before. But in the last 9 months it’s been great to see how things are changing at the one and only real golf resort in Illinois. New owner Mark Klausner is making more than material improvements. Because Klausner is building a culture of great options, better golf courses, better accommodations, better services for the guests. Stay tuned because each month a new chapter is unfolding- and the new spa is fully opened.

WHAT WAS REALLY GREAT TO HEAR is the amount of people that are coming to Eagle Ridge this spring-summer and fall. But this is a continuation of what I have been writing since the winter golf trip. Destination properties are getting better in many places. Golfers are taking notice and are making trips and planning getaways.

Paige Spiranac a social media influencer and good golfer as well, had plenty of followers at the show.

THE CHICAGO GOLF SHOW saw a turn out much stronger than the Milwaukee show. So properties that did not have a booth. Really lost out on reaching an audience that’s ready to travel, ready to golf, ready to have some fun. Not to mention-ready to spend money and improve your bottom line. There were numerous show patrons that left carrying a new golf bag, gloves, shoes and a club or two.

I PUT THE ATTENDANCE for the Milwaukee show at nearly 7,000 for the three day total. The Chicago show number was likely double that with 14 to 15,000 being a real number. I do believe there were few people that just came out this past weekend to see social media golf star Paige Spiranac. Yes-I don’t blame them either.

In my opinion one of things that golfers who attend the show like to do. Is gather all the brochures from destination properties, and head back to their clubhouses and start comparing prices. From talking to plenty of show-goers the last three days. It appears there will be plenty of golf trip planning over the next two or three weeks. The Illinois PGA and the Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA) had booth’s. Plenty of golfers enjoyed the free IPGA golf lessons, free golf from GolfVisions and CDGA handouts.

Sqairz golf shoes-the best shoe on the market.

THIS PAST WEEK it was reported that both Sergio Garcia and Dustin Johnson parted ways with Adidas, their brand of golf shoe on tour.

There was different reasons for that. Garcia’s deal expired and was not renewed, Johnson and Adidas parted ways on mutual agreement.

Because in Johnson’s case it likely had something to do with him playing on the LIV Tour. However as a long time Adidas guy off the golf course, their shoes are lacking these days. The last pair of Adidas golf shoes I got, and the last pair of regular Adidas I bought. I found the soles to be too thin and lacking both support and comfort. Especially the Boost golf shoes. The mesh look isn’t very good either.

So I would hope that both players go looking for a better built shoe. The first one that comes to mind is the shoe I wear, Sqairz.

Since another media member referred me to Sqairz, I have been wearing them. The first pair of Sqairz was heavier than I wore at the time. They reminded me of some old NFL place kicker shoes from back in the day. But that’s not the case anymore. They are more stylish, lighter weight, great show laces that don’t untie every two holes (FJ). Spikes that hold up better, and the traction is really good. All-in all they are a solidly built, sturdy, dry and stylish shoe. So I don’t just stand by them-I stand in them when I practice and play.

SO SERGIO AND DJ get your agents on the phone and give Sqairz CEO Bob Winskowicz a call. Try out some Sqairz shoes and take even more of the LIV Golf money.

The Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Open daily until 10 Pm, book a hitting bay at Mistwoodgolfdome.com. or call (630)-739-7600. Home to McWethy’s Sports Bar.

IT WAS DISAPPOINTING to see the strength of the final field for the last Honda Classic this past week. When so many top names that didn’t play, actually live near the golf course. Real touring professionals will tell you, to never pass up a home game. NBC had Jack Nicklaus on-air to talk about the event next year, that likely will have a new sponsor. Honda which was the longest running sponsor on the PGA Tour, apparently had enough of the PGA Tour and commissioner Jay Monahan. Which PGA Tour sponsor will be next, could it be the John Deere Classic. Stay tuned.

LIV GOLF started this past week, and Charles Howell III was the winner. There are a few new names on the LIV Tour this year including former Illini guy Thomas Pieters. Pieters agent Mark “Whiney-Steiny” Steinberg who also represents Tiger Woods, dumped Pieters for jumping to LIV. Pieters is better off without him. LIV GOLF has a new TV deal with the CW Network and a new global sponsor. Long time PGA Tour professionals Brendan Steele and Danny Lee have joined LIV.

THE MADISON WISCONSIN Golf Show that had been scheduled for next week, has been cancelled. So after three golf shows in the last five weeks, I’m ready for hitting the links. But in the meantime, I still have plenty of stories still to post from the winter trip.

So stay tuned-a look at the Pinehurst area Private Club experience tomorrow. CCNC Golf, 36 really good holes of golf. RS

IT’S TIME TO HIT THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB and plat the Schaumburg Golf Clubs winter edition on the three simulators. But you can get a lesson or fitted for clubs while you enjoy food and beverage from Chandlers Chophouse right upstairs. The pro shop is ready with your golf needs as outdoor season approaches and the clubs 27 holes reopen for play. Book a simulator time at Schaumburggolf.com or (847)-885-9000.

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

The 123rd U.S. Open will played on the North Course at Los Angeles Country Club from June 15-19.

THE United States Golf Association (USGA) has now officially opened online registration to enter this years U.S. Opens.

There will be thousands of entrants attempting to qualify through the two-stage process for most applicants.

But players with no exemptions will be able to attempt qualifying, via 109 local sites around around America, with one site in Canada.

Around 1,000 players will got through final qualifying at 13 locations worldwide. The breakdown is one site in England (May 16), Japan (May 22), Canada (June 5), and then 10 U.S. locations. But one is on May 22nd, and the other sites on June 5.

The U.S. Open has 24 categories for exemption into the U.S. Open, with four new categories this year. They are the Latin America Amateur champion (must be an amateur). 2023 NCAA Division 1 men’s individual champion (must still be an amateur), 2022 Korn Ferry Tour season points leader. Plus the top 5 players in the 2022-2023 Fed Ex Cup point standings, who are otherwise not exempt.

Applications to apply can be found at champ-admin.usga.org. with entries being accepted until Wednesday April 12th at 5 PM-EST.

But since 2010 the U.S. Open has averaged 78 players in the final field (50 percent).

So now entries are being accepted for the 78th Women’s Open July 6-9 at Pebble Beach. The 43rd U.S. Senior Open June 29-July 2 at Sentry World in Stevens Point Wisconsin. The 5th U.S. senior Women’s Open at Waverley Country Club in Portland Oregon. Plus the 2nd U.S. Adaptive Open from July 10-12 at the Pinehurst Resort on Pinehurst Course No.6., will accept entries on Monday February 27th at 9 Am.

The Los Angeles Country Club will host the U.S. Open for the first time. but the championship is returning to the area for the first time since 1948. Ben Hogan won his first of four U.S. Open’s in 1948 at the Riviera Country Club.

But to learn more about the USGA or the U.S. Open Championships, visit USGA.org.

PARADYM CALLAWAY GOLF CLUBS were the talk of the day-at the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Book a hitting bay or get fitted for the new Callaway Paradym golf clubs with Matt Carter and Eric Russell. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome-the home of McWethy’s Sports Bar-at (630)-739-7600 #Simulatorsinthedome

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

The Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook.

Golfers on Golf was the only media outlet on hand for todays Callaway Golf Seminar in the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook.

The 3 1/2 hour event had members of the Callaway staff presenting the new Paradym clubs (available Friday).

But there were sessions on the No.1 putter in golf-Odyssey ( bet you didn’t know that) the golf ball-Chrome Soft played by the No.1 men’s player, the No.1 women’s player, the No.1 Amateur women’s player ( did you know that). Bet you didn’t know that the Paradym driver has more wins this year than you know.

Callaway can’t say the name of two players that have won or made a playoff on the PGA Tour this year. Because those players are not under contract to Callaway. But GOG can give you a clue-the winner won at Pebble Beach.

Rory with Michael Vrska at the Callaway booth in Orlando Florida. Photo by Cassy Tully.

Callaway’s Director of Fitting and Player Development Michael Vrska was on hand at the Mistwood Golf Dome to be part of the presentation.

But Golfers on Golf spoke with Vrska at the PGA Show in Orlando last month.

For todays seminar at the Mistwood Golf Dome. There were over 175 golf professionals in attendance, in spite of the bad weather that made travel in the area difficult.

Callaway Golf brought golf balls, golf bags, shoes and other apparel for the professionals to review. But the winner of the day, was amateur golfers. Who can now gather more information about Callaway Golf products from their local PGA professionals.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Callaway Golf’s Director of Fitting and Player Development Michael Vrska-click here.

A section of the Illinois golf professionals in attendance at the Mistwood Golf Dome.

There is now great news. Because Paradym is available as of this Friday February 24th.

But one of the best places to be fit for Callaway Golf clubs in the Chicago area, is at Mistwood Golf Dome, or the Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville in summer.

So if your ready to upgrade your Callaway Golf Clubs, or switch to the Callaway brand. Now is the time to do it, and be ready for the summer golf season before it arrives. Go test the Callaway Paradym golf clubs at the Mistwood Golf Dome.

So for more details, see Callawaygolf.com or visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com. Paradym a new way to enjoy golf and improve your golf game.

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has three simulator bays open daily, where you can play the Schaumburg Golf Club indoors in the winter. Chandlers Chophouse is open and takes orders while your golfing. Schaumburg Golf Club is located at 401 North Roselle Road in Schaumburg-847-885-9000 or SchaumburgGolf.com. IN THE DOME is the Mistwood Golf Dome Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook, home to Top Tracer Golf and McWethy’s Sports Bar. So book a hitting bay at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

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

Welcome to Southern Pines Golf Club in Southern Pines North Carolina. (L) is the first tee box. (R) is the new Kyle Franz designed large putting green, right of the first tee.

Southern Pines Golf Club part of the Ross Resorts group of courses that includes Mid Pines, Pine Needles and Southern Pines GC, all three Donald Ross designed courses, has added a new feature.

OPENING UP in April of 2023 is the new large putting green next to the first tee at the Southern Pines Golf Club. Ross Resorts has elected to give the new surface a little more time for grow-in. There is no official date in April to open as of yet. But April is the current timeline to open the green-that has not been named so far.

While other improvements have been taking place, including cart path improvement. The putting green has been developing.

THE NEW KYLE FRANZ DESIGNED putting green will add all sorts of fun adventures while you putt, and practice for your round at the Southern Pine Golf Club.

BUT IN other news from Southern Pines Golf Club, comes word that new villa’s are in the works for the club. The current plan is to have them constructed off to the right side of the first fairway.

So book your next golf trip to Ross Resorts at Rossresorts.com or call the resort at (800)-747-7272.

ANDY MICKELSON (L) Director of Golf at Mistwood Golf welcomes everyone to the Mistwood Golf Dome on RT. 53 in Bolingbrook. Book a hitting bay-try out Top Tracer Golf, get a lesson or club fitting from Matt Carter (R). The dome is home to McWethys Sports Bar. For details see 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 and Facebook. Behind the 18th hole at the Caledonia Golf & Fish Club on Pawley’s Island South Carolina.

BREAKING NEWS…

Tim Clarke the President of the Chicago based Wilson Golf, has left the company.

Clarke has posted this information on his Facebook page. But just moments ago I spoke with Clarke, who is ready for a break from the golf business and will recharge his batteries.

Clarke has not accepted a position with another company.

Three time PGA Tour Winner Brendan Steele a Wilson Golf Staffer-has left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf.

CONDOLENCES to Tour Edge Golf Marketing Director Jon Claffey, on the passing of his father last week, and to Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, Director of Golf Mike Weiler on the passing of his mother back on January 29th.

This past weekend, another win for Jon Rahm and his equipment company Callaway, as the Paradym clubs are off to a great start on the PGA Tour with four wins this year.

Schaumburg Golf Club-three simulators open daily. Come play the Schaumburg Golf Club year-round. While playing enjoy food and drinks from Chandlers Chophouse upstairs. Schaumburggolf.com or call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000. Located at 401 North Roselle Road.

SPEAKING OF THE GENISIS Tiger Woods played in the tournament. But was showing signs of wearing out on the weekend, after just barely making the cut. So by teeing it all four days, his World Golf Ranking (OWGR) is back in the top 1,000. So Mr. December is now additionally Mr. 985. Woods took a pasting on social media after outdriving his friend Justin Thomas on one hole. Then while walking down the fairway Woods handed Thomas a Tampon. Woods did later apologize after it was caught on camera.

SHOWTIME-The Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont tee’s off on Friday at the Donald Stephen’s Convention Center. The show that features Social media influencer Paige Spiranac, and broadcaster Colt Knost runs through Sunday. Knost won the USGA Publinks Championship in 2008 at Cantigny Golf in Wheaton. Spiranac and Knost will appear on the main stage both Saturday and Sunday.

LAST WEEKEND I was at the Milwaukee Golf Show. The show wasn’t as big as in recent years, but had a nice turnout. Crowd count was 1,500 for Friday, almost 3,000 on Saturday, and just over 2,000 for Sunday. But what was surprising was that many of the top courses in state did not have a booth. But both Kohler and Lawsonia golf did send prizes for giveaways.

THE MADISON WISCONSIN GOLF SHOW appears that it will be cancelled. It was supposed to be held the first weekend of March.

PGA SHOW stories are coming out soon, there are plenty of products I found at the PGA Show, that I will be writing about in the next week or two. Stay tuned. The Gog Blog returns all week. RS

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road has three simulators open daily, where you can play the SGC indoors. The pro shop with plenty of golf supplies is there to stock you up for the season. So book a tee time at SchaumburgGolf.com or call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000. Schaumburg GC is just minutes from Woodfield Mall.

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.

David Perkins is the defending champion at the Illinois Open.

THE ILLINOIS PGA has announced it’s playing schedule for the 2023 golf season, including four major championships, highlighted by the Illinois Open.

But first on the tee is the Match Play Championship from May 9-11, which will return to the Bull Valley Golf Club in Bull Valley/Woodstock. Chris Nieto of Exmoor Country Club is the defending champion.

The Illinois Open will be played for the Third time at the Flossmoor Golf Club (previously known as the Flossmoor Country Club that hosted in 1984 and 1955, both times with a winning score of 209 or 9 under par). David Perkins is the defending champion, dates are Monday-Wednesday July 31-August 2nd.

QUALIFIERS for the Illinois Open are as follows: Deerfield GC June 21. Willow Crest GC June 29. Maple Meadows July 5. Ironwood GC July 13. Sunset Valley GC July 17. The Hawk CC July 19. Last chance qualifier is July 26 at Countryside GC (Prairie).

The Illinois PGA Section Championship will be played from August 14-16 for the first time at the Thunderhawk Golf Club in North Suburban Beech Park. Brian Carroll of The Hawk Country Club is the defending champion. The championship serves as the National PGA Professional Championship, 10 Illinois PGA members will qualify for that event in 2024.

TWIN ORCHARD COUNTRY CLUB in Long Grove will host the Illinois PGA Players Championship, October 9-10. It’s no longer an invite for the sections top 36 players in the point standings, any IPGA Section Class-A professional can play. Kevin Flack of the Mauh-Tee-See-Club is the defending champion.

The Preserve at Oak Meadows will host the Illinois Senior Open for the second straight year.

So after a successful hosting in 2022, the Illinois Senior Open returns to the Preserve at Oak Meadows.

University of Illinois Men’s golf coach Mike Small is the defending champion.

Because if you’re a professional or amateur with a verified handicap index of 10.0 or less, you can attempt to qualify. But you must be 50 by June 26th.

The other senior majors include the Illinois Senior PGA Professional Championship at the Merit Club August 7 & 8. But the IPGA Senior Match Play is moved to October 2-4 at Ridge Country Club. So dates are posted for the for the Senior Players Championship (Oct. 16-17). But the location is TBD.

There are six IPGA Stroke Plays starting on May 8th, at Bull Valley Golf Club. So after a recording breaking year in 2022 for Birdies for Charity (raising $600,000), the event returns to River Forest CC. But the date remains the Tuesday after Labor Day on September 5th.

The 61st Radix Cup is Wednesday June 15th. Teams of 12 players from the IPGA and the CDGA square off for the cup.

So for more information on IPGA events, see IPGA.com.

THE TIME IS NOW to visit the Schaumburg Golf Club located at 401 North Roselle Road, just minutes away from Woodfield Mall. Schaumburg has three simulators and you can play Schaumburg Golf Club on the indoor version. Schaumburg’s pro shop is filling up with all your golf supply needs for the summer ahead. So book a simulator time get a lesson or club fitting by visiting SchaumburgGolf.com or call (847)-885-9000.

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

TRUE BLUE by Mike Strantz is just half of a great 36 hole golf experience on Pawleys Island just South of Myrtle Beach-Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is right around the corner.

TRUE BLUE is the fourth signature designed by the late Mike Strantz, and the club opened four years later than it’s sister course The Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. Strantz designed True Blue during while he was still working at Tobacco Road north of Pinehurst.

Mike Strantz style of sliding the edge of bunkers into water hazards, shows here, on the par-3 third hole. What’s hidden is the hour glass shaped green that may or may not receive shots that clear the deep faced front bunker.

True Blue like it’s sister property Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, is or has been rated in the Top 100 courses by multiple publications.

At 7,126 yards True Blue plays longer than the 6,526 yards that Caledonia plays at from the tips.

But True Blue does offer wider fairways than Caledonia. Because off the tee it’s not hard to get your golf ball in play. But it’s second shot requires more from the golfer, as one navigates the Strantz green complexes.

The par-3 16th hole has a heavily fortified green from both sand and water. Multiple tee boxes play from longer that 200 yards.

Because of the where the water comes into play. True Blue’s par-3 holes require some of the golfers best tee shots they will hit all round.

Because of long running waster area style bunkers. The par-3 7th and 11th holes play just as challenging as the par-3 holes with water.

Director of Golf for both True Blue and Caledonia, Bart Romano says,” Ture Blue gets unfairly called a hard golf course.”

While Romano is correct that True Blue is not overly hard. There are places, more so around the green where golfers have to be on their game to score.

There is plenty of sand to carry on the par-3 11th hole.

The closing hole No. 18 is a 437 yard par-4. It gives one the feel of playing the 18th at TPC Sawgrass. Water running down the left side of the fairway.

But the approach is to a green guarded by sand to the right, and water to the left. A par here is great score, and likely could win a match with other players.

The Southern style plantation clubhouse is a great place for post round food and beverage. But the grill room is open daily for food and breakfast, for those with an early tee time.

The Caledonia Golf and Fish Club has a long history that dates back before golf. If you enjoy the drive-in to a nice club. Caledonia’s driveway rivals (R) a famous club in Georgia.

The Caledonia Clubhouse behind the 18th green, is a popular place for post round relaxation.

The Caledonia Golf and Fish Club is built on the site of an old southern plantation.

Dr. Robert Nesbit, a Scotsman named the old plantation Caledonia, a Roman name for Scotland.

But what’s not known is whether Nesbit acquired the land through purchase or marriage. Nesbit married Elizabeth Pawley in 1797.

Historical records indicate that Caledonia at one time, was one of the largest plantations in the area. Because what was at one time 2,542 acres, dropped to only 152 acres after the Civil War. The current owners started the property as a hunting and fishing club, until golf came along in the 1990’s.

The Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook, open daily until 10 PM. The dome is home to McWethy’s Sports Bar. See Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600. #Lessons #Clubfittings #Toptracer.

Caledonia is mostly about golf these days, but the charm of the south hits you during the drive in. 150 year old trees covered in Spanish Moss, line the driveway.

Strantz made the courses four sets of tees, play from 4,975 to 6,526. The tee markers are various types of ducks or mallards. To play the back (Pintail) tees, you must prove your handicap is six or better.

The par 3-third hole at Caledonia.

Strantz gave this modern designed golf course, a real old club feel which is why golfers feel the club is much older.

There is water on some holes, but it’s not a strong presence all around the course.

The folks at Caledonia will tell you that they have 18 “signature holes”. But the hole most people talk about is the 18th hole. There is a strategic lay-up off the tee and water carry on the second shot.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Caledonia Golf and Fish Club and True Blue Director of Golf Bart Ramono.

The short par-3 ninth hole, from the back tees at 118 yards.

Caledonia leaves the golfer with more strategic decisions off the tee, that at True Blue.

But Strantz, like at True Blue has used high faced bunkers, deep bunkers and strategically place creeks to enhance green complexes.

Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, has earned it’s multiple Top 100 rankings, it’s classic golf at a 30 year old club.

So to golf at True Blue or Caledonia-only 2 minutes apart, please visit Caledoniagolfvacations.com or call (866)-954-8331. But you can call either course directly or visit each clubs website. Truebluegolf.com or Caledoniagolfandfishclub.com.

IN THE DOME or in THE SIMULATOR golf season never ends anymore in the Chicago area. Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook-home to the dome and McWethy’s Sports Bar. So book a hitting bay at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600 and try Toptracer, get a lesson or club fitting. SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road is open year round. Because you can play Schaumburg Golf Club on the clubs simulators, and Top 100 golf courses. See Schaumburggolf.com (847)-885-9000.

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

The PGA Tour and the Valspar Championship return to Innisbrook from March 13-19.

INNISBROOK RESORT the final stop of the Florida swing on the PGA Tour, will host the “Most Colorful Tournament on Tour” when the Valspar Championship returns from March 13-19.

Innisbrook and the Valspar Tournament are one of the most popular stops on the PGA Tour. But this year there is a rare chance to see history, as Sam Burns goes for a three-peat at this years tournament. Because that is something that does not happen very often on the PGA Tour. Two years ago-Burns stopped Paul Casey’s bid for a three-peat at Valspar. Past champions at Valspar include golfers with Chicago area ties, Luke Donald and Kevin Streelman.

Copperhead is one of the PGA Tour courses that you the amateur golfer can play. So sign up for your play and stay at Innisbrook, part of the Salamander Hotel and Resort chain.

The opening tee shot on Copperhead.

But while the excitement builds for another week of championship golf at Innisbrook, there is excitement building on where the direction of the property is headed.

While everything is not yet official, the resorts master plan of improvements is taking shape.

But the remainder of those plans will become official later this spring.

Mike Williams is the Innisbrook Resort’s Executive Director and General Manager.

Already confirmed by resort Executive Director Mike Williams, is that the resort will tear apart the inside of the Copperhead Clubhouse this summer (about July 1st).

The famed Packards Steakhouse inside will be temporarily relocated to the second floor of the Island Golf Course clubhouse. Packard’s is expected to reopen in the Copperhead Clubhouse around October 1st of this year.

Striker is ready to greet golfers who venture into the Snake-Pit, holes 16-17-18 on Copperhead.

Williams says the resort has spoke with all the top names in the golf architecture industry, in regards to building a par-3 course at the resort.

The resort is working with Toll Brothers in revamping the property. The North and South Courses, will have some rerouting done to work around other resort projects, including the building of some homes and villas on the resorts property.

CLICK HERE to here the full interview with Innisbrook Resort Executive Director Mike Williams.

The resorts four courses were all designed by later-in-life resident Larry Packard, who lived to be 102.

Copperhead is not the only championship course at Innisbrook, as the Island Course has hosted numerous championships. Among them the NCAA Men’s Championship won by six-time major champion Phil Mickelson.

But for more information on Innisbrook please visit Innisbrook.com. plus don’t forget to watch the Valspar Championship next month from March 13-19.

MISTWOOD STOCKING CAPS for when it’s still a little frosty outside. But as outdoor season approaches, get a golf lesson from Mistwoods professional staff like Nicole Jeray. The dome is home to McWethy’s Sports Bar and Toptracer golf. It’s located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. So book a hitting bay at 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 and Facebook.

The welcome to Cabot Citrus Farms, is 9 months away-in Brooksville Florida.

BROOKSVILLE-FLORIDA.

Is the new home to Cabot Citrus Farms, the latest destination property by Ben Cowan-Dewar, already known for his Cabot properties in Canada, and the Caribbean.

Worldwoods is gone in more ways than one. First up the name has changed, and two there is no longer many “woods” on the property. This after a massive tree clearing effort with the rebuilding of the new golf courses.

Project architects Southern Pines North Carolina based Kyle Franz and Texas based Mike Nuzzo say, they don’t know exactly how many trees were removed, but do admit it was a good amount.

To the left of the front entrance is the new look of Cabot Citrus Farms, limited trees and big sand dunes.

A preview of the property in advance of the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show, came with one major announcement.

A change in the architects working on the golf courses. Kyle Franz is still working on the course that was the Pine Barrens course. Mike Nuzzo is still working on the practice area’s and short courses.

Keith Rhebb and Riley Johns originally selected to renovate the Rolling Oaks course, have stepped back from the project. Rhebb and Johns currently have a large workload with much of it overseas. This limited the commitment they could make to the Cabot Citrus Farms project.

So Cowan-Dewar combined his on site team to take over Rolling Oaks. But with help from Ran Morrissette formerly of the USGA and Co-Founder of Golf Club Atlas, and more recently the architecture editor of Golf.com.

The digging in some area’s of Cabot Citrus Farms is quite extensive in some area’s.

But while there is plenty of dirt and sand to see at this stage of the project. It is being quickly shaped into some really neat golf holes, that will turn Cabot Citrus Farms into a high demand Florida golf destination.

So it’s not like courses Erin Hills or Chambers Bay that have less than 10 trees left. But the number of remaining trees is not a large one.

Architects Kyle Franz (L) holds a drawing of the new Cabot Barrens course while Mike Nuzzo (R) shows off “The-21”.

THERE IS PLENTY OF SAND around the Cabot Citrus Farms project that is located in Brooksville Florida.

Pine Barrens Golf Course is now called Cabot Barrens, and Rolling Oaks is renamed Cabot Oaks. The 21 designed by Nuzzo, is a combination of a 11 hole par-3 course, that will play “under the lights” at night called “The Ace”.

Part two of the 21, is a 10 hole executive course. The breakdown of The-21 is as follows. There are 14 par-3 holes, 6 par-4 holes, and 1 long par-5 hole, that according to Nuzzo will be about 560 yards. The Ten will circle around The Ace, but golfers can combine the two courses and play the 21 hole routing together. The totals of the 21 holes are a par-71 course, with a yardage total of 4,160 yards. There will be four sets of tees.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with architects Kyle Franz and Mike Nuzzo, on the Cabot Citrus Farms project.

Cabot Citrus Farms will open in December of 2023. A new clubhouse and overnight villas will begin construction this summer.