HERITAGE OAKS IN NORTHBROOK on Dundee Road in Northbrook is open for the fall season. But then all winter long with simulators in the Acorn Grill, for golf, golf lessons and club fittings. Club championships are next weekend, so sign up today for the fall events. The new Trackman range can help your game in shape. Heritage Oaks is much more than a new name, see what’s new HeritageOaksgc.com (847)-291-2351.

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

Bryson Dechambeau with trophy wins the Chicago LIV Golf event at Rich Harvest Farms-after a closing round of 63 on Sunday. Photo by Rory Spears.

THAT MAKES 3 IN ILLINOIS

Bryson DeChambeau has won for the third time in Illinois.

All of the above have been meaningful wins in DeChambeau’s career.

Because shortly after good finish at Rich Harvest Farms in the 2015 Western Amateur at Rich Harvest Farms, DeChambeau went on a tear and won the 2015 USGA-Amateur at Olympia Fields.

The party hole-17 at Rich Harvest Farms.

So during his week at Olympia Fields DeChambeau spoke how the Western Amateur was a great tune-up for the US-Amateur. That his play at RHF elevated his game to where he wanted it to be to come amateur week.

DeChambeau says he hoping that his play in Chicago puts him where he wants to be, when LIV Golf arrives in Miami for the LIV Golf tour’s final USA event at Doral Resort.

But while Dechambeau’s final round 8 under par 63, over-took his Crushers teammate Anirban Lahari for the overall win. DeChambeau finishing before Lahari thought he would come up one shot short. But then after seeing Lahari struggle with an approach shot that came up short of the 18th green, DeChambeau started thinking playoff. But then Lahari’s approach to the pin, came up 9 feet short leaving him a slick putt for par.

Team Crushers GC L-R Charles Howell III, Anirban Lahari, Bryson DeChambeau and Paul Casey.

But Lahari’s putt to save par and force a playoff never had a chance. Because it slid past the hole, some 4-5 inches wide left of the cup.

So the next thing DeChambeau knew he went from runner-up to playoff-to winner.

DeChambeau was pulling for his Crushers teammate Lahari to make the putt and force the playoff. Where DeChambeau hoped the tournament would get settled. But the playoff was not needed. Crushers now only trail 4Aces for the team championship lead.

Talor Gooch’s 7th place finish earned him $660,000 and allowed him to keep sole possession of first place in the individual money race.

DeChambeau’s other win on the LIV Tour this year came at the Greenbrier on the famed old White Course. DeChambeau’s final round 12 under par 58, was amazing golf but it’s not known if his 63 today tied or beat the course record here at Rich Harvest Farms.

For more information stay tuned in here or visit LIVGolf.com

HERITAGE OAKS GOLF CLUB 3535 Dundee Road in Northbrook. A new clubhouse, a new range, new greens, new tee’s, new look, and brand new name. So come see what golfers from around Chicago are coming out to enjoy in record numbers. The new Heritage Oaks Golf Club-now open year round with indoor simulators during the winter season. But several weeks of outdoor play still remaining. Visit HeritageOaksGC.com.

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

GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO WEEK #20. The 2023 season finale. LIV Golf talk, 2023 review and 2024 preview all driven into one putt.

GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO 10 AM ON WNDZ-AM 750-CHICAGO.

Golfers on Golf Radio is L-R ED STEVENSON the only Illinois PGA Professional hosting a local golf program. LEN ZIEHM the longest tenured golf writer in Illinois history and the only member of the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame hosting a local golf show. BILL BERGER the only former PGA Tour professional hosting a local area golf program. RORY SPEARS the only local show host working in both the public and private golf sectors in the Chicago area. Spears is a national award winner for his work in golf broadcasting, golf writing and golf podcasting.

Come see the final major golf event in the Chicago area this year. LIV Golf at Rich Harvest Farms-final round play on Sunday.

Because 20 Weeks of golf talk have raced by, today marked our final LIVe  radio show of the year.

There were no guests. So the year end round table could tee off, with thoughts on this weeks LIV Golf, next weeks Ryder Cup, this weeks Solheim Cup.

But included was a recap of golf in 2023, and a look at 2024. Which could be lacking without the PGA Tour or the Western Amateur in town.

But at Rich Harvest Farms on Friday Len and Rory caught up with Sergio Garcia for an exclusive interview about Garcia’s thoughts about being left off of Team Europe next week in Italy.

Rory spoke with Brooks Koepka and it’s obvious that there is no-love loss between Koepka and the PGA of America. So how it will show it’s head this coming week in Italy remains to be seen.

DURING THE SHOW  you will hear from all 5 of the first leaders including Garcia, Louis Oosthuizen, Jed Morgan, Sebastian Munoz and Anirban Lahiri. So comments include, the crowded leaderboard, the team race, and course conditions at Rich Harvest Farms.

SO IF YOU MISSED IT LIVE-CLICK HERE to hear the replay of this years final edition of Golfers on Golf Radio.

SPECIAL THANKS to our listeners, and all in the golf industry that help make our show, one of the best golf radio programs in America.

Sponsors Mistwood Golf, Erin Hills Golf Club, LIV Golf and Heritage Oaks Golf Club for supporting our work-Thank You.

Golfers on Golf is the only year-round golf news source in the Windy City. So stay clicked in all fall-winter-and spring, until the radio edition returns in 2024.

Thanks everyone-from Bill-Ed-Len and Rory. So go enjoy fall golf, it’s a pretty time to play. You season is not over, neither is ours. See you on the links. RS

LIV GOLF CHICAGO IS UNDERWAY-Sergio Garcia and four others are tied for the lead after Day 1. But many more players are within two shots of the lead. So there is plenty of excitement at Rich Harvest Farms. Get the group together and come out all this weekend, when the weather is even better. So catch the details here and LIVGolf.com.

THE GOG BLOG BY RORY SPEARS-Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect at LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram

Sergio Garcia one of your 5 first round leaders at Rich Harvest Farms.

Sergio Garcia is one of the five first round leaders at LIV Golf Chicago-Rich Harvest Farms.

Garcia is tied at 5 under par with Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa, Judiah Morgan of Australia, Sebastian Munoz of Columbia and Ainrban Lahari of India.

Garcia and Oosthuizen said post round that Rich Harvest Farms is playing in great condition considering the amount of rain fall that has landed in the last week in Sugar Grove.

But there are 12 players within two shots of the lead. So this sets up for a wild shoot out this weekend.

Because both players and teams are fighting for position, as the LIV Golf Tour gets ready for the tour championship in a few weeks at Doral Golf in Miami.

***Sergio Garcia speaks exclusively with Len Ziehm of the Daily Herald/Golfers on Golf and Rory Spears of GOG on not being a part of this years Ryder Cup team from Europe.

Sergio Garcia speaks with Rory Spears and Len Ziehm of Golfers on Golf, and the Daily Herald. Photos by Joy Sarver

Several players thought the scores could be lower. This in spite of the heavy rains that have fallen in the last week at Rich Harvest Farms.

Multiple players said that Rich Harvest Farms  owner Jerry Rich, stopped at dinner on Thursday night to apologize for conditions. But the players to a man, said there was nothing to apologize for because the conditions were fine.

Multiple players in the post round press conference spoke about how they enjoy Rich Harvest Farms, and look forward to returning in 2024.

Golfers on Golf plans to speak with Jerry Rich on possibility of that happening. But as of now it seems likely that they will.

Simulator season will soon be starting at Heritage Oaks in Northbrook. So lean more at HeritageOaksgc.com or (847)-291-2351.

Post round interviews are coming soon here to this story. So stay tuned for more in the next few hours. The Shotgun start is at 12:15 tomorrow afternoon for Round 2. So for more information see LIVGolf.com.

Golfers on Golf Radio returns for it’s final week of 2023 tomorrow.

WNDZ 750 AM with a tee time of 10 AM, with Len Ziehm, Bill Berger, Ed Stevenson and Rory Spears. So there is complete coverage of this weeks LIV Golf event at Rich Harvest Farms. Golfersongolf.com.

BRING THE GROUP to Rich Harvest Farms this week for LIV Golf. Because it’s back in town, and Cam Smith is ready to defend his title. BAR 54 is open and the post round concerts are happening. Tickets at LIVGolf.com. TIME to ROLL THE ROCK at Heritage Oaks located 3535 Dundee Road in Northbrook. So while your at it, get a new putter cover in the pro shop. Enjoy the Acorn Grill-Trackman Range and 27 holes of wonderful Parkland Style golf. So call the pro shop at (847)-291-2351 or see Heritageoaksgc.com.

The Gog Blog by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. In the media center at LIV Golf-Chicago, on site at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove.

LIV GOLF IS BACK for year No.2 at Jerry Rich’s-Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove.

Today is great time to buy tickets before the deal expires-tonight.

Cam Smith is back to defend his title, and Dustin Johnson is looking to win the team championship one more time.

There are concerts on property after Rounds 1 & 2-with Nelly on Friday night, and Tiesto on Saturday. But the golf should be even better. Because Brooks Koepka will be tuning up to go play the Ryder Cup in Italy the following week.

PRO-AM is Thursday, with Rounds 1-2 & 3 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

I am anxious to see a larger and more wild crowd than even last years group. So the atmosphere will be more fun than some local college football teams. But even more fun than our local football team on Sunday.

The action should be really good at “The Farm” as players fight for the position they want heading into the LIV Tour Championship at Doral in Miami. That is just a few weeks away. But hospitality is almost sold-out, so grab what tickets you can, and go out to Rich Harvest Farms for all the fun.

STRETCH DRIVE-IT’S BEEN A FUN YEAR for Golfers on Golf Radio Saturday mornings on WNDZ 750 AM with a 10 Am tee time. So it’s hard to believe this Saturday is Week No.20 and at 11 Am, we are done for the year. We hope that you can join us for the last live broadcast of the season.

LEN ZIEHM will have a arrived in town and plans on being in studio for the first time this year, fresh off a visit from Pinehurst. I can’t wait to hear all the details. 2024 will be exciting in Pinehurst, with course #10 opening and the U.S. Open in town come June.

THE DEBATE is still on over Ryder Cup picks. If players are upset over not being selected, they could announce they won’t play Ryder Cup’s in future years. IF PLAYERS from both teams started dropping out across the board for 2025-27 and so forth. Teams or captains might have to start selecting better.

CONGRATS TO IPGA PRO Don Wegrzyn has been selected to the PGA of America Hall of Fame. Congrats Don.

THE UNIVERSITY of ILLINOIS held it’s annual invitational at Olympia Fields Country Club. The 54-hole event was shortened to 36-holes, when heavy rains fell on Sunday morning. Illinois entered ranked No.9, but finished in tenth place.

NEWS FROM STREAMSONG is that the new 3,000 yard 19 hole golf course by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw opens for play on December 1st. Tee times at Streamsong.com. Can’t wait to play there, this will be a fun one.

PHIL MICKELSON has made a personal announcement on his website, that he is not gambling on football this fall. Mickelson has admitted that he went through a gambling addiction, and that he is no longer gambling as a result. Good for Phil-it appears that gambler Billy Waters book on Mickelson has had an impact.

The Gog Blog returns all week, and I look forward to seeing everyone at LIV Golf this week. Rich Harvest Farms will host a quite a party. RS

TRACKMAN TECHNOLOGY now a part of the new double-sided practice range at Heritage Oaks at 3535 Dundee Road in Northbrook. But there’s more, golfers can now enjoy the new clubhouse with the Acorn Grill, that offers specials like Taco Tuesday’s    and Wings on Wednesday’s. The 27 Parkland style holes are both challenging and fun to play. But even better is because of two simulators indoors, Heritage Oaks is now a year round golf facility. So learn more at HeritageoaksGC.com or call (847)-291-2351.

*Club Championships are coming up in just 2 weeks. So sign up before the deadline.

THE GOG BLOG is written by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation, follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook.

  GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO Chicago’s longest running golf program now in it’s 33rd year and three national award winner is L-R Ed Stevenson, Len Ziehm, Bill Berger and Rory Spears. You can join us live every Saturday through September 23rd at 10AM on WNDZ 750 AM Chicago.

THIS WEEK #19 Michala Mika Director of the Illinois Youth Golf Foundation based at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove. Speaks to how this weeks LIV Golf event will impact the work and the growing of golf programs at the foundation.

LIV GOLF is back this coming week at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove September 22-24.

BUT THEN after the mid-show break, architect Greg Martin joins us live to discuss the plan coming together for Maple Meadows Golf course in Wood Dale.

Martin the past president of the ASGCA (American Society of Golf Course Architects). Was the designer of the multi award winning Preserve at Oak Meadows across the street in Addison.

Maple Meadows is also part of the three course DuPage Golf System. Which is part of the DuPage Country Forest Preserve District.

Architect Greg Martin at the Preserve at Oak Meadows.

Martin speaks to the new master plan coming out for the renovation of Maple Meadows.

But Martin talks about some of the new hot ideas in golf design  and why they have become so popular.

Martin will be working a joint project in Wisconsin with fellow ASGCA member Todd Quitno. So check out the show’s rebroadcast for all the details if you missed it live.

LEN ZIEHM checks in LIVE from Pinehurst, with updates on the new USGA Golf House being built at the entrance of the Pinehurst Resort.

CLICK HERE to hear the rebroadcast of Golfers on Golf Radio Week 19 on WNDZ AM 750-Chicago.

THANKS FOR LISTENING-Ed, Billy, Len and Rory.

BUT DO MAKE SURE-you tune in for next weeks 2023 season finale. With updates from Rich Harvest Farms on LIV Golf Chicago 2023.

TRACKMAN RANGE ONE OF THE NEW Additions to Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook on Dundee Road. So learn more at HeritageOaksGC.com (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 at Instagram/LinkedIn/Facebook

LIV GOLF returns to Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar grove September 22-24. Tickets LIVGolf.com

LIV GOLF at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar grove is now just two weeks out.

So do you have your tickets yet?

Cam Smith will return to defend his title won last year in 2022.

Dustin Johnson and his team return to defend their team title won last year.

Brooks Koepka’s final event before he heads off to Italy to compete in the Ryder Cup.

So are you ready to walk Rich Harvest Farms, or do you want to be part of Club 54, or the new LIV Bar. LIVGolf.com for tickets and more. Because hospitality is going quickly.

PINE MEADOW GC in Mundelein is holding it’s annual fall scramble on Saturday September 30th-with a shotgun start at 9 Am. Teams are 4-players and cost to enter is $115.00 per person. But this includes, golf/cart range balls, and a hotdog lunch with chips and a soft drink. So to sign up call the club at (847)-566-4663 (GOLF).

VOLVIK USA announces a new leadership team.  The golf ball company based in Orlando has named Pete Kinney, PGA, president. John Holst is now the VP of Sales. Both Kinney and Holst have worked at other companies in the golf ball side, each of them at Maxfli and other companies.

“We look forward to leading the Volvik team as we expand the presence and scope of this exciting brand,” Kinney said. “Volvik has always been known for leading the way in color, quality and innovation appealing to golfers of all skill levels. But our focus will be to continue developing groundbreaking technology, and enhancing the products that we are known for. Our sales team is out in the field already meeting with our valued customers and presenting the best lineup of products and pricing that we have ever offered in the United States.” So for more details see Volvik.com.

THE GOLF HERITAGE SOCIETY has announced the groups schedule for the annual convention that runs from October 11-14 in Lexington Kentucky. So for a full list of events see GolfHeritage.org.

CLUB CHAMPION has announced that for a limited time, there are FREE fittings available with a purchase of over $499.00. See Clubchampiongolf.com for more information.

The teams for the Hickory Grail matches at Belvedere Golf Golf-won by Team USA.

TEAM USA WINS.

BUT NO the Ryder Cup has not started. But the 2023 Hickory Grail Matches, one of the worlds premier events with hickory shafted clubs has been won by Team USA 18-10.

The matches that were contested at Belvedere Golf Club in Charlevoix Michigan, saw the USA defeat Europe by 8 points.

Because on Day 1, the USA won 5 of seven matches to jump out to a 5.5-1.5 lead and never looked back. So for more information see thehickorygrail.com.

CHRIS CHARNAS and Links Capital Advisors based in Wilmette, has announced the sale of 7 Lakes Golf Club in West End North Carolina. 7 Lakes is just a few miles west of the famed community of Pinehurst. Details at Linkscapitaladvisors.com.

IRVINE CALIFORNIA-Uneekor announces savings of up to $3,000 for it’s simulator products through the end of September. Learn more at Uneekor.com.

THE NEW PINEHURST 10 is opening April 3rd of 2024. So book now at Pinehurst.com

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

CHICAGO’S FAVORITE FOURSOME IS ED STEVENSON-LEN ZIEHM-BILL BERGER and RORY SPEARS.

Tee-Time is 10 AM today on WNDZ-750 Am Chicago. So listen in because there are only two more shows remaining after todays show.

WEEK 18 includes.

The Homestead Resort-Hot Springs Virginia-1766 land, the resort that’s older than America.

THE HOMESTEAD RESORTS Managing Director Mark Spadoni on the resorts extensive renovation.

The Omni Hotel Homestead is still undergoing one of the most extensive renovation projects ever for a destination property.

Because so far over $150 million dollars has been spent on upgrades and repairs to various parts of the property. The hot springs baths are now back fully restored and in operation. Spadoni joins us at about 10:10 to break down this wonderful renovation of one of America’s historic properties.

LIV GOLF broadcaster Jerry Foltz-talks LIV Golf and the upcoming Chicago stop at Rich Harvest Farms.

JERRY FOLTZ

LIV broadcaster after year at The Golf Channel jumps in about 10:30.

Foltz who has been with the LIV Golf tour since the start, shares with us about making the change off the PGA Tour to work with LIV.

But what it’s like to work with LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman.

What the players have told him about the LIV Tour, the individual side and the team side of the tour.

Foltz talks about LIV golf success at this years majors and Brooks Koepka making the Ryder Cup team.

LIV GOLF returns to Rich Harvest Farms from Sept. 22-24, with post round concerts on the 22nd and 23rd.

CLICK HERE to hear this weeks edition of Golfers on Golf Radio.

Golfers on Golf is the longest running golf show in Chicago history now in it’s 33rd year. But it is also the only show in Chicago with a member of the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame, a member of the Illinois PGA, and a former member of the PGA Tour.

Golfers on Golf Radio is a three-time national award winner for being among the best golf radio shows in America. Because Golfers on Golf Radio looks at the Chicago market and beyond.

So enjoy this edition of the rebroadcast if you missed live, and thanks for listening. Ed, Bill, Len and Rory.

JANUARY OF 2023 the former Pit Golf Course in Aberdeen NC. was being torn apart. What a difference nine months makes. Today the Pinehurst Resort announced the new course-the tenth course at Pinehurst will open for play on April 3rd of 2024.

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

Rory Spears (L)- with Tom Doak’s lead associate Angela Moser on the site of the new 10th course at Pinehurst in Jan. of 2023. Photo by Bob Farren of Pinehurst.

APRIL 3rd, 2024 the date golfers have been waiting for.

PINEHURST 10 or The Tenth Course at Pinehurst will open.

Architect Tom Doak’s Pinehurst masterpiece will showcase his work in the sandhills of North Carolina.

The Pinehurst Resort can now say it’s list of architects is Donald Ross, Tom Fazio, Gil Hanse, Jack Nicklaus, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and Doak. But there a few others from over the years you could add to the list.

PINEHURST 10 is shaping up for a 2024 April opening.

PINEHURST 10 will be the first new course the resort has opened in nearly 30 years (Pinehurst 8 in 1997).

Opening day is just over 60 days ahead of the 2024 U.S. Open on Course No.2.

“Pinehurst Resort has been fortunate to be hailed as the Cradle of American Golf, and we’re grateful for all the major championships and historic moments that have come before,” says Pinehurst Resort CEO Bob Dedman Jr. “We’re delighted to have a date to begin presenting this incredible design by Tom Doak to our guests. So April 3 will not only be another great day in Pinehurst’s history, but for our future as well.”

The 17th hole on Pinehurst 10.

PINEHURST 10 is expected to be unlike any of the other Pinehurst Resort Courses.

The land for Pinehurst 10 is over a century in the making. Doak found elevation change of over 75 feet on a site that years ago was a mining operation.

AKA The Pit. Because in later years was the creation of the Pit Golf Course.

“No. 10 starts out fairly gentile, then it starts going into an old quarry works where it gets downright crazy for a little bit, then the course gets up on the hill and there’s a beautiful sweeping view,” Doak says. “All of  the holes coming in are challenging, even when you move down into the gentler terrain. It’s a dramatic golf course, more than I originally thought.”

LIV GOLF CHICAGO-September 22-24 at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove. Tickets at LIVGolf.com

Golfers looking to be the among the first to play No.10, can reserve their stay by calling 1-800-ITS-GOLF. But see more information see Pinehurst.com.

“We’re excited to show off Tom Doak’s masterful interpretation of Pinehurst golf,” said Tom Pashley, President of Pinehurst Resort. “From the initial routing of Pinehurst No. 10 to the shaping and design. So we can’t wait for everyone to see it.”

So if your ready to travel to Pinehurst, book your golf packages at (855)-235-8507. Pinehurst the home of American Golf is expanding once more.

LIV GOLF CHICAGO-September 22-24 at Rich Harvest Farms-tickets at LIVGolf.com. (R) The McWethy Cup at Mistwood Golf Club Thursday September 14th, benefitting the veterans of America. Learn more at Mistwoodgc.com or call Mistwood-(815)-254-3333

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

Rory Spears with the Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in Haven Wisconsin.

TODAY WAS LUKE DONALD’S Turn to make his captains picks, for the 2023 Ryder Cup coming up in Italy.

So now the debate is on, who made the better picks. Donald or Team USA Captain Zach Johnson.

Donald’s picks included recent John Deere Champion Sepp Straka, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowery, Justin Rose, Ludvig Aberg, and Nicolai Hojgaard. I know, the last two players are people American fans are saying-Who.

JOHNSON LAST WEEK selected Sam Burns, Rickie Fowler, Brooks Koepka, Collin Morikawa, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. YES KUDO’S to Johnson for picking Brooks Koepka off the LIV circuit, the but the reigning PGA Champion, his 5th major title. The PGA that runs the Ryder Cup, loves having it’s champion on the Ryder Cup team.

The selection of Thomas really ticked off plenty of American golf fans. Because Thomas hasn’t played well this year, in fact he missed the cut in three of four majors. Thomas had rounds in the 80’s. Thomas missed the Fed Ex Cup Playoff’s, he should have missed the Ryder Cup as well. Defenders of the Thomas pick-are calling Thomas the American version of Europe’s Ian Poulter. Guess what-he isn’t.

BUT WHAT had emerged as another American rout on Euro-soil. Doesn’t seem to be headed that way now. Because this Euro team is really stacking up pretty good. So any Team USA win won’t come easy.

THE TEAM USA WALKER CUP TEAM pulled off a great rally to beat the Great Britain and Ireland squad. Down 3 points headed to the final day, Team USA cut the gap to 1 point, before the singles matches. Which is where lead by World-Am #1 Gordon Sargent Team USA found it’s game and brought home the Walker Cup from the Old Course at St. Andrews. Well played guys.

BUT OFF THE COURSE the controversy was Team USA wearing “W” hats before the matches. Seriously a “W” hat. The hat stood for Walker, as in Walker Cup, not the “W” we see at Wrigley Field. So end of story.

THE B1G TEN or soon to be B1G TEN x2 conference is getting no respect form those who vote on rankings. Because on the men’s side only #9 Illinois is ranked in the top 25. But on the women’s side it’s Northwestern as the only B1G Ten representative in the Top 25. Last year’s champion Illinois is NR. I don’t think the Illini ladies got that bad over the course of summer.

2023 Senior masters award winner Dave Erickson-St. Andrews Golf & Country Club.

THE ILLINOIS PGA honored St. Andrews Golf and Country Club professional Dave Erickson with the 2023 Senior Masters Award.

Erickson says he is transitioning into retirement after 53 years of working in some capacity for the Jemsek family at one location or another.

But the last 32 years Erickson has been at St. Andrews in West Chicago. A few years back before I left for the PGA Show in Orlando, Erickson was kind enough to let me hit his personal Callaway driver.

I knew the new Maverick Driver was good, but I had not yet seen one or hit one in person. So on a 30 degree day in December I stood out on the St. Andrews range hitting balls with Erickson’s driver. I knew then that I would have to get one, and two months later I did get a Maverick. One of the best drivers Callaway has ever made.

Frank Jemsek spoke on behalf Erickson. The IPGA Senior Masters Award is presented to a long standing section professional, for years of service to the game.

GET WELL WISHES to former Wilson Golf staffer and 2019 U.S. Open Champion and all-around good guy Gary Woodland who will undergo brain surgery. Woodland’s surgery includes the removal of a lesion on the side of his brain. Fingers crossed here for a full return to health and golf.

TOM DOAK has been named architect for a new project in Spain, on the site that was previously known as “Valderrama II”. Golfers here in the USA are anxiously awaiting Doaks new projects in Pinehurst NC. Sand Valley Wisconsin, and in Michigan. I am one of those golfers.

THE GOG BLOG returns this week. RS

LIV GOLF IS BACK SEPTEMBER 22-24 at RICH HARVEST FARMS. So you can order tickets now at LIVGolf.com. But also stay for the post round concerts-Nelly and Tiesto. So can Cam smith win it all again, what about Dustin Johnson on the team competition.

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

Welcome to the Pine-Pine Meadow in Mundelein.

PINE MEADOW in Mundelein is going to hold it’s final Titleist Thursday, on Thursday September 7th-from 11 Am to 5 Pm.

But these fittings are by appointment only. So there are no walk-ups.

Titleist fitting specialist Brad Nelson will conduct the fittings. TSR products and the new T-Series Iron will be present. So call to schedule your fitting at (847)-566-4653 (GOLF).

THE CASH MONEY SCRAMBLE at the Pine on September 23rd. 3-person teams which can be male or female. But all players will play the course in the 6,400 yard range. $175.00 per player, and $525.00 a team. Prizes are cash payouts. To register call Pine Meadow at (847)-566-4653.

The Rambo Scramble is Back-October 14th at Maple Meadows-tough set up and tough pins.

THE RAMBO SCRAMBLE is back for another year at Maple Meadows Golf Club in Wood Dale.

So do you like the challenge of tough pins. Because the superintendent gets to show off his evil side here, and test your nerves and your putting skills.

So Saturday October 14th is the day, and you can sign up at DuPagegolf.com or at Maple Meadows. $90 per player is the green fee and all that comes with it. BUT MORE NEWS from DuPage Golf. So have you been to the Greenway Tap, if not check-out the video at DuPageGolf.com the food is yummy good.

The Labor Day Weekend Sale at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook.

THE LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALE is now underway at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook through Monday.

Shop now. Because this weekend, you can find a variety of items at various % off.

But don’t forget even when the course closes for the year, the professional team is there for lessons, and club fittings all winter long. So don’t forget that every day from 3-5 Pm, is happy hour or 2, in the Acorn Grill. But now with discounts on Taco Tuesday’s and Wings on Wednesday. Men’s and Women’s Club Championships coming up on Saturday September 30th for the ladies, and September 30th and October 1st for the men. (847)-291-2351 or visit HeritageoaksGC.com.

CHRIS RAINEY of Drums PA. is this years Flight Winner at the 40th World Amateur Championship in Myrtle Beach South Carolina. Rainey survived the 5-man playoff to win the title. But for all the flight winners in this years competition in various divisions visit MyrtleBeachWorldAmateur.com.

SEPTEMBER IS ALS Awareness month at Blackberry Oaks in Bristol. The Wally Boughton Senior Open is September 26th & 27th. Raffle tickets now available for some great prizes. So learn more at BlackberryOaks.com where #KidsRule (630)-553-7170. 2-Man Scramble September 9th, the 4-man scramble is October 8th.

LIV GOLF IS BACK at Rich Harvest Farms September 22-24, tickets LIVGolf.com

SO ARE YOU TIRED of paying for over priced tickets for sporting events.

Because if so, why not buy your tickets for the LIV GOLF Weekend at Rich Harvest Farms September 22-24, this weekend.

Because this weekend there are specials on tickets for the upcoming LIV Golf week.

So punch into the LIV Golf.com site and get your deals today.

But did you know there are post round concerts after golf on Friday with Nelly, and on Saturday with Tiesto.

So come out and enjoy another year of top level professional golf at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove September 22-24.

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS has announced Women’s Golf Team member Isabel Sy, has been named to the Big Ten Women’s Golf-Watch List for the 2023-2024 season. Details at Fighting Illini.com.

THE MEN’S TEAM #9 has three players on the pre-season watch list. Junior Jackson Buchanan, Senior Piercen Hunt, 5th year Senior Jerry Ji. FightingIllini.com.

CALLAWAY GOLF fitting event at Cog Hill on Wednesday September 20th from 11 Am until 4 Pm. Fitting fee is $60. But you  receive a dozen golf balls. So to book your appointment call Cog Hill at (866)-264-4455.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 29th is Cog Hill’s Night Golf. Which is a walking only event. Call Cog Hill to sign-up. Coghillgolf.com.

OAK BROOK TERRACE based Zero Friction Golf, has a full line of products, with logo’s of your favorite football teams. Both college team and NFL teams. But if you need a glove with a Cubs logo on it, as they try to make the playoffs. Maybe a Blackhawks glove as the Connor Bedard era begins. So for more information see Zerofriction.com.

Pawley’s Plantation old and new 2024 look.

DATELINE MYRTLE BEACH SC.

Pawley’s Plantation will introduce a renovation starting in April of 2023, the course will be reimagined by the Jack Nicklaus design team. Which is headed up on this project by Troy Vincent.

Currently the planned reopening is set for October in 2023. Design work started on May 22nd and by early last month, the greens had been restored to their original size after having been re-grassed. Improvements on this popular golf course that opened in 1988 included greens, bunkers and clubhouse work.

Bunker work on 10 of the courses holes has been extensive. “There are a lot of changes to the course, and they will be very noticeable,” said Vincent. ” The majority of the large bunkers are gone and in their place will be expanded fairway, and more traditional fairway bunkers and native areas. The layout will be more playable, but the teeth have not been taken away for better players.”

“Watching the work at Pawleys Plantation take shape has only served to heighten our excitement about the project,” said Steve Mays, President of Founders Group International. “The restoration of the greens will infuse the layout with creativity, and the reimagination of the bunkers will help ensure that Pawleys Plantation maintains its place among the best courses in South Carolina for years to come.”

Work has continued in the clubhouse, where Pawley’s Pub will have more space and better views of the par-4 18th hole. So for more information see Pawleysplantation.com.

SuperStroke announces Ryder Cup golf bags.

SUPERSTROKE GRIPS

SAYS you should get a grip on these Ryder Cup themed golf bags.

PRE-ORDERING is now underway.

These new styled golf bags, have everything golfers need in todays modern world of golf.

So if you purchase one of the Ryder Cup styled bags, you receive a free SuperStroke Ryder Cup styled putter grip.

Prices are $399 on the Ryder Cup Cart Bag. But only $349.00 for the Ryder Cup Stand Bag. So to learn more about the Ryder Cup series of golf bags, please visit SuperStrokeUSA.com or http://superstrokeUSA.com/.

19-Year Old Dylan Horowitz now captain of the golf team at Chapman University in Southern California, has created the Kavooa Pro.

SO IF YOUR A COLLEGE STUDENT and your stuck in your dorm during the pandemic, what do you do.

Well if your Dylan Horowitz and your on the schools men’s golf team, you help build a training aid that helps remove your major swing flaws.

Kavooa Pro, will be the first training aid by Kavooa Golf.

Horowitz realized that the hockey he played from his early days in sports, had given him some bad habits with his golf swing.

Eventually after building some tripod prototypes, Horowitz involved his dad Andy Horowitz who had experience building companies, later bought by Fortune 500 companies.

Kovooa Pro sells for $129.99 weighs only 3.5 pounds, and easily collapses into side pockets of most golf bags. Kovooa Pro comes with a phone clip holder, so you can easily take video of your golf swing. So learn more about the newest unique training aid on the market at KovooaGolf.com. You can see some video’s online of Kovooa Pro in action.

THE GOG BLOG returns this week. RS