LINKS CAPITAL ADVISORS-HAS SOLD OR IS SELLING GOLF COURSES

    THE SHACK GOLF CLUB AT 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview is your North Shore home for winter golf. Seven simulators and a putting green. So then join owner Nick Larkin, All-World Caddie master Greg Kunkel and Arnie at the bar for a beverage and some great tasting flatbread pizza’s. TheShackGolfClub.com or call (847)-904-2905.

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

The Blackstone Golf Club is up for sale. Located in Marengo IL.

Chris Charnas and Links Capital Advisors is helping broker golf course sales, both in the Chicago area, and out of state.

Currently a couple of the courses up for sale include the Blackstone Golf Club in Marengo IL.

The profit making golf course is mixture of holes that run through both wetlands, and some thick forest area’s of both Hickory and Oak trees.

Because the club has easy access to I-90, and the opportunity to grow events and outings, on a well kept golf course. Blackstone is a great opportunity for either a first time owner, or current course owner looking to add to their portfolio.

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH LINKS CAPITAL ADVISORS INCLUDE:

The Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road is open daily with three simulators. The pro shop is starting to fill up with items for the summer season ahead. including the new Pro-V1’s by Titleist. Chandlers Chophouse with great burgers is open as well. So visit SchaumburgGolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 and book a simulator time today.

THE NORTHERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY GOLF COURSE is now for sale for a great price. The well kept golf course has a small but stylish pro shop. So the course is for sale as the university foundation is divesting it’s current real estate assets.

Northern Michigan University golf course is a 6,800 yard par-72 Bruce Mathews design that first opened for play in 1992. It is located in the UP of Michigan, in Marquette Michigan.

LCA is currently handling the sale for four other clubs, both in and out of the state of Illinois.

RECENTLY SOLD CLUBS by LCA include.

The 36-hole Knollwood Country Club in Granger Indiana. Now also sold is the Par-5 Michicot Resort in Wisconsin.

SO IF YOUR looking to buy or looking to sell a golf course. Now is the time to reach out to Chris Charnas at chris@links-cap.com. now based on River Road in Des Plaines.

HARBOR SHORES ADDS NEW WEE COURSE BY”MONTY”

  THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook is home to Toptracer Golf, and McWethy’s Sports Bar. So right now check now Mistwoodgolfdome.com schedule and see what companies are bringing demo days to the dome. Because maybe it’s time for a new club or more. So book your hitting bay today by calling the dome (630)-739-7600.

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

  WELCOME TO THE HARBOR SHORES RESORT in Benton Harbor Michigan-(R) the Harbor Shores Clubhouse.

THE WEE COURSE is coming to Harbor Shores Resort in Benton Harbor. The Harbor Shores Golf Course, a signature Jack Nicklaus designed course, has been home to the Kitchen-Aid Senior PGA Championship on a every other year basis since 2012.

Nicklaus and his design team created an amazing 18 holes that winds through a 550-acre development. That mixes the traditional Northern Michigan style woodlands, through a wetland area, a dunes around the edges of Lake Michigan, and removal of a garbage dump, and small deserted buildings.

But now the Nicklaus influence at Harbor Shores will be recreated by Sr. PGA Champion at Harbor Shores Colin Montgomerie, on a smaller scale.

The INN at Harbor Shores is just two minutes from the clubhouse at the golf course.

Because while the five acre site might seem small, the area will be complete with both a 9-hole par-3 pitch and putt style course.

The course will sit alongside of the cottages by the first hole. these 9-holes will be inspired by the most iconic holes of the Harbor Shores Nicklaus design.

So all of the holes will measure 60 yards or shorter. The course will have two sets of tee boxes, so 18 holes can be played in different ways from different yardages. But that’s not all the project includes. Because an 18 hole putting course will be added, similar to designs found at both St. Andrews and Pinehurst.

Owner Nick Larkin invites all golfers to come and enjoy The Shack Golf Club, where golf season just got longer. 7 simulators and a putting green. So book a time today at TheShackGolfClub.com or call (847)-904-2905.

So while construction will start in the spring of this year, some limited preview play could happen by this fall.

A formal grand opening will take place in spring of 2026.

The visionary behind the project is former Whirlpool CEO Jeff Fettig who said, “it’s a perfect use for the land. It’s been in discussion for years on what types of other amenities we could add to the property. This project will fit that need. It will be a fun pitch and putt course that anybody can play.”

The Wee Course supported by donations from Corewell Health Foundation of Southwest Michigan, a large non-profit healthcare system. So through the support of the Corewell HF, kids will get to play for free. Serious golfers will find the Wee Course a great place to practice short shots, before hitting the Harbor Shores Championship golf course.

Three simulators and Chandlers Chophouse, all part of Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road. So book a time at Schaumburggolf.com or (847)-885-9000. Where you can play the Schaumburg Golf Club indoors all winter long.

Joshua Doxtator, General Manager of Harbor Shores Golf Club, sees the creation of the Wee Course as a way to further enhance the value of Harbor Shores.

“We’re very excited to create something that will be so much fun and unique while enhancing the value and overall experience for our guests, members, and the community,” said Doxtator. “The Wee Course will provide a much more accessible and less intimidating experience for youth and beginners to learn and play the game. But guests will enjoy the night life around the lighted area course and putting green.

So for more information on Harbor Shores, visit harborshoresresort.com.

USGA ANNOUNCES QUALIFYING SITES FOR 2025 WOMEN’S OPEN

  THE SHACK GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview is open daily until 10 Pm except Sunday’s 8 pm. So now is the time to book your party, league, lesson or club fitting. Hourly rates vary from Peak to Off Peak times. Call (847)-904-2905 or visit TheShackgolfclub.com. Shack memberships are available. #Golfseasonjustgotlonger

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

The U.S. Women’s Open Trophy-photo courtesy of USGA.

THE ROAD TO ERIN HILLS IS ABOUT TO BEGIN!

Erin Hills will host the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open, the clubs fifth USGA Championship.

The U.S. Women’s Open will be the 80th and will be played from May 29th-through June 1st.

So the USGA has announced the list of the 23 qualifying sites in the United States. But there will be three additional sites one each in Canada, Japan and Italy.

So the qualifying is now open for registration and the 36-holle rounds to qualify will be held from April 15, and May 13.

The Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road, has three simulators open daily. But the pro shop is starting receive items for this summers golf season, Titleist Golf Balls, new hats, and towels. Chandlers Chophouse is open for food and beverage. So book a simulator time at Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000.

“The collaboration between Allied Golf Association in the United States, International Federations and Tours is significant in the qualifying process and provides thousands of professional and amateur golfers, an opportunity to earn a place in the U.S. Women’s Open field, said USGA Chief Championships Officer John Bodenhamer. “So we know that Erin Hills, the surrounding community and the State of Wisconsin have been ardent supporters of championship golf and will once again create an outstanding atmosphere for the world’s greatest players.”

Druid Hills Golf Club in Atlanta GA., and Sugar Mill Country Club in New Smyma Beach Florida, lead the way, as each club is hosting a qualifier for the seventh time. 17 different states are hosting qualifiers.

The United States Golf Association see USGA.org.

In 2024 the USGA accepted 1,897 entries for the championship, second only to 2023 when the entry count was 2,107 for Pebble Beach.

Erin Hills will become the 16th club have hosted both the U.S. Open, and the U.S. Women’s Open.

But while there will be no qualifiers in the state of Wisconsin, the will be two qualifiers in the State of Illinois. The first is on Monday April 28th in downstate Belleville, at the St. Clair Country Club. But the second qualifier is on Monday May 12th at the Elgin Country Club.

Welcome to the Elgin Country Club-home of the May 12th U.S. Women’s Qualifier.

Defending champion Yuka Saso won her first U.S. Women’s Open in 2021 at the Olympic Club in San Francisco.

But in 2024 she won her second championship at Lancaster Country Club in Pennsylvania.

Birdie Kim (2005) was the last U.S. Women’s Open champion, who advanced through the qualifier that year.

This will be the 18th USGA Championship contested in Wisconsin, and the third U.S. Women’s Open. So for a full list of qualifier sites please visit USGA.org.

STREAMSONG TO ADD FIFTH COURSE BY DAVID MCLAY KIDD

  THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road-just minutes from Woodfield Mall is a great location for indoor simulator golf. But while you are there check out the pro shop for what’s arrived for 2025, and Chandlers Chophouse for great food and beverage. So book simulator time at Schaumburggolf.com – (847)-855-9000.

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

Welcome to Streamsong-Central Florida’s Golf Destination, with a fifth course on the way.

STREAMSONG TO BUILD ANOTHER!

Streamsong Resort in Streamsong Florida has announced the building of a 5th golf course.

Construction is expected to begin early this year, and architect David McLay-Kidd has been tapped to head up the design.

Kidd is best known in the United States for his designs of Bandon Dunes, Mammoth Dunes at Sand Valley, plus Gamble Sands in the State of Washington. This new course (still not named) will be located on the Streamsong property, between the Red Course (Coore & Crenshaw) and Black Course (Gil Hanse).

David McLay-Kidd takes questions from a live audience at the recent PGA Show, about being picked to design the new course at Streamsong Resort.

“I have read many times how great players have a love for the majors. I was not sure what that meant when I was younger, but now I get it. In the world of golf design, there are certain properties, locations and even owners that working for can be like playing in the majors. Streamsong for me is a Major,” said Kidd.

“The destination is world renowned and KemperSports gets it. To be included in that group of architects requires my team and I to do something exceptional. That opportunity both excites me and makes me nervous, but in a good way. My team and I are so excited to add to the history of a place so young and yet rooted in a tradition of exceptional golf architecture.”

The Streamsong property map.

Streamsong first opened for play 13 years ago, in 2012. At that time the resort had two courses the Red and he Blue (Tom Doak).

2017 saw the opening of the Hanse Course the Black Course.

But more recently was the opening of the Bucket Course, a 2.5 acre putting course. In 2024 the Chain by Coore and Crenshaw a short course has mostly par-3 holes.

The Shack at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview is open daily with 7 simulators and a putting green. So book a hitting bay today at TheShackGolfClub.com or call (847)-904-2905.

“We are excited to partner with David to lead the continued evolution at Streamsong Resort,” said KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner. “He is one of the most talented architects of his generation with a unique ability to design golf courses that are visually appealing, challenging, and great fun to play. I know the entire world will be excited to see what he creates on some of the best property of the resort.”

There is no time table for the course to open and construction to be complete. When asked about a name for the course, Kidd shrugged and Skinner’s response was we don’t have one yet. But Skinner added, we have three courses that are named Red, Blue and Black. So maybe go from there. Well Gold, White, and Green are still available. Another option is the Sand Dunes at Streamsong.

But for more information on Streamsong please visit Streamsongresort.com.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT-SNOWING ON ALL FAIRWAYS

  THE SHACK GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview has seven simulators and a putting green. Plus a full sized bar and grill. So now is the time to book your special event or start getting ready for the summer season ahead. Lessons and club fittings are available. Call (847)-904-2905 or online at TheShackGolfClub.com Open daily #TSGC

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on X @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram At The Keep Golf Course at McLemore Resort, in Rising Fawn GA.

THE SNOW IS COMING!

So while there has not been much snow all winter, which has been a good thing.

The run of luck we have been on seems to be coming to an end on Wednesday, and this Saturday night.

So any thoughts of outdoor golf coming soon, might have to be put on hold for a few weeks, unless a warm stretch comes to town before long.

Because it has been nice that some courses have stayed open all winter long, but that’s because there hasn’t been any snow. That seems to be changing.

The Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road has three simulators. Lessons and club fittings are available. Chandlers chophouse with outstanding burgers, is right upstairs and will bring food down to your hitting bay. So book your time at SchaumburgGolf.com or call (847)-885-9000.

So it’s time to take the game inside for the next few weeks.

Some of our favorite places to do that are, The Shack Golf Club in Glenview, call (847)-904-2905. Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road, call the club at (847)-885-9000.

But on the dome side, in Bolingbrook it’s the Mistwood Golf Dome, with award winning club fitter Eric Russell. The dome is home to McWethy’s Sports Bar, with outstanding beverage selections and chicken wings.

You can’t go wrong at any of these places, for both food and golf.

MORE GOLF NEWS-good things are happening in the Pine Meadow Golf Club clubhouse. The walls and ceiling have just been painted, and new carpeting is on the way in about 10 days. So stay tuned for pictures when things are complete.

The Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Toptracer golf and fittings and lessons. Chipping and putting area’s. So book a hitting stall at (630)-739-7600 or at Mistwoodgolfdome.com

CONDOLENCES TO TIGER WOODS on the loss of his mom Kultida Woods, she was 78.

As a result, Tiger has withdrawn from this weeks Genesis Tournament, that was moved from Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines GC, due to the Pacific Palisades fires.

THE LIV GOLF SEASON started in the Middle East. But better news was the announcement that both the USGA and the R&A have awarded LIV Golf players exemptions into both the U.S. Open and the Open Championship, for players not previously qualified. It was time for both of these organizations to step up and do the right thing.

PRESIDENT TRUMP has been meeting with a few golf people in recent weeks. Hopefully he can help broker the long, long awaited for deal between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf or the PIF Saudi backed group. Trump has golfed with Brandel Chamblee, and meet with Commissioner Jay Monahan and Adam Scott. Before he took office there was a round with U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau. LIV Golf will return to Trump Doral in Miami this year, and it’s time the PGA Tour does the same thing.

THE SHACK GOLF CLUB in Glenview is open daily. So come try the simulators and the pizza breads in the grill. (847)-904-2905 The Shack where golf season has got longer.

DUSTIN JOHNSON has ended his over 20+ year equipment deal with Taylormade golf.

So the former U.S. Open and Masters Champion is a free agent in the equipment market. It will be interesting to see where Johnson ends up next.

SO ARE YOU READY FOR VALENTINES DAY, if not check out what’s cooking in the clubhouse at the Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison.

The chefs are cooking up some special Valentine’s Day delights in the Greenway Tap. A reminder from DuPage Golf, all three golf courses are closed for the winter golf season. DPG is hoping to reopen the courses for the start of the summer season around April 1st (no joke) weather permitting.

EQUIPMENT many of the companies are starting to get their new lines of clubs for 2025 into Pro Shops and retail stores. So if your thinking a new club or clubs for this season, starting checking to see what equipment is already in stock for you to hit.

THE GOG BLOG is back all week. RS

TITLEIST ANNOUNCES UPGRADES TO PRO V1 AND PRO V1X

  THE SHACK GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview. Seven simulators and a putting green, where you can test the line of Bettinardi Putters. With snow on the way, warm up your game for the summer season ahead at The Shack. Where Arnie is always at the bar. theShackGolfClub.com or call (847)-904-2905. Golf season just got longer.

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

THE NEW PRO V1 and PRO V1X-when there is a need for speed and distance.

THE TWO YEAR WAIT IS OVER!

So when there is a need for more speed, more distance and more or less spin. Welcome to the world of the Pro V golf ball by Titleist.

The NEW Pro V line is now available in pro shops and retail stores.

Titleist says the key to the latest edition of the Pro V line, is a faster high gradient core in the ball. Which adds low long game spin, more speed and spin around the green.

“The golf ball has to do everything,” said Frederick Waddell, Titleist Director of Golf Ball Product Management. “It’s never just about maximizing one area-golfers need performance on every single shot. Each of our golf ball models is optimized for distance off the tee, and with 2025 Pro V1 and ProV1x in particular, we’ve realized a speed a gain while unlocking even better iron and wedge performance. All of which helps players shoot lower scores.”

The 2025 edition of the Pro V1x Titleist golf ball.

“We’re always trying to improve the golf ball in some way, and that’s all driven by golfer feedback,” said Mike Madison, Vice President, Titleist Golf Ball R&D. “We start by talking with the best players in the world, who help us define what better is for both Pro V1 and ProV1x. The goal is to help golfers score better, and to do that, we’re going to use every tool we have in the toolbox.”

So with the core reformulation, the Titleist engineering team was able to steepen the so-called “spin slope”. Because this helps maintain a lower spin off the tee, but increasing spin with the scoring clubs. So-far over 40 players on the PGA Tour have made the switch to the new Pro V1 or Pro V1x golf ball.

The new 2025 renovations are built upon the innovations the were part of the 2023 innovations, says Jeremy Stone Senior Vice President of Golf Ball Marketing and U.S. Sales.

The Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road, has three simulators open daily. With snow in the week ahead, come enjoy indoor golf and food from Chandlers. So book a simulator at (847)-885-9000 or see SchaumburgGolf.com.

So if your wondering the difference between both golf balls, Titleist provides a breakdown.

Pro V1 offers the best combination of speed, spin and feel in the game of golf.

Pro V1 has mid-flight trajectory, low long game spin, maximum short game spin and soft feel. Compared to Pro V1, the Pro V1x will fly higher, and spin more on full swing shots and have a firmer feel.

On one day alone data collection on both golf balls is nearly 20,000 data points. Which totals more than 5 million per year. Titleist now has over 1,700 golf ball patents on the walls of golf ball R&D. But it was just 34 patents that went into the original Pro V1 design. Since the original design Titleist has experimented over 2,500 dimple patterns, since the original Pro V1 was created.

Colors available on the new Pro V1 and Pro V1x balls are White and High Optic Yellow. The MAP is $54.99 per-dozen balls.

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Frederick Waddell and Golfers on Golf at the PGA Merchandise Show.

So for more information please visit Titleist.com and find more information on custom logo’s or ball numbers.

MCLEMORE-A CLOUDLAND WITH TWO KEEPERS

  THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road is open daily and has three simulators to choose from. But whether you are golfing a Top 100 course of the indoor version of the SGC, you can enjoy great food and beverage from Chandlers Chophouse upstairs across from the pro shop. It’s not to early to grab a lesson or get fit for clubs, with many new options to choose from. Schaumburggolf.com (847)-885-9000.

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

Welcome to McLemore-Georgia’s newest golf destination property.

GOLF VISIONARY MIKE KEISER will tell you, that when you have one golf course, you are a curiosity. When you have two courses, you become a destination.

So welcome to one of golfs newest destinations, located in Northwest Georgia, in the town of Rising Fawn.

The destination property game in the Peachtree state, is no longer about what’s east or south of Atlanta. The northside has now entered the game, with a home run property, just south of of Chattanooga Tennessee.

Welcome to “The Keep” by Bill Bergin and Rees Jones.

ENTER MCLEMORE

Which has a hotel called “Cloudland” and now two-plus golf courses. The first course is the Highlands Course, part 1 of the Bill Bergin-Rees Jones designs on property.

But now there is a second Bergin-Jones design at McLemore, called “The Keep”. While both courses are ‘keepers’, The new Keep is the one starting to get a lot of attention. Because some folks in the golf industry already think “The Keep” will be the “Best New Course of 2025”. So if you have a chance, take that bet and your likely to be a winner.

THE CAIRN COURSE that sits behind the main clubhouse, is a short six-hole par-3 course.

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the interview with McLemore courses designer Bill Bergin.

“The atmosphere is so pleasing across the property. I made over 100 site visits to McLemore while building The Keep. Normally when you travel a lot, there are times your just ready to go home. But when I was there, I didn’t want to go home. I just wanted to stay.”-Bill Bergin course architect-ASGCA.

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Toptracer golf, simulators, McWethy’s Sportsbar, putting and chipping greens. Your dome home for winter golf in Chicago. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600

GETTING TO MCLEMORE is a bit of adventure, if your coming through Georgia on Interstate 75, just head west on State Road 135 at Exit 320 and you can find your way to McLemore. It’s scenic drive around a few mountains and some farms. One can only imagine the late John Denver singing “Country Roads” in background, as one drives past plenty of white ranch houses, red barns, and a Baptist church or three. There is a historical marker at Snake Gap Creek, and a national forest as well to see.

But once you arrive at McLemore it’s a place you really don’t want to leave. The views from the hotel, and the golf courses are nothing short of breathtaking. So while the Highlands Course and the new Keep course are solid 18 hole designs, there is the short 6-hole par 3 Cairn course, designed by Bergin that sits behind the clubhouse at the Highlands. The longest hole plays 100 yards and the course is a great warm up upon arriving on property. But some golfers that have not had enough golf after a round on the Highlands or The Keep, might grab a wedge or two from their bag, along with a putter and go hit the Cairn Course that opened in 2019. A perfect course for the junior golfers, beginners, or seniors that don’t bomb it that far anymore.

“What we have here at McLemore on Lookout Mountain is a little slice of heaven,” says Director of Golf Greg Lecker. “It’s a place where you look forward to coming to work each day.”

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with McLemore Director of Golf, Greg Lecker.

The par-3 third hole on the Highlands Course.

MCLEMORE WAS PURCHASED by it’s current ownership in 2017 the Scenic Land Group, and the name of the resort was changed to McLemore. Then in 2018 Rees Jones and Bill Bergin were hired to renovated the existing golf course. Which they did and the course with some changes and upgrades became a top course you could play. The name was changed to the Highlands Course and play reopened in early 2019.

BUT WHAT WAS NEEDED was a better finishing 18th hole. Bergin noticed an area that had some trees and brush, and thought there could be potential for a great new 18th hole. So he scaled down the side of the rocks, and through the brush with thorny stickers on them, wearing shorts to give things a closer look. So when Bergin emerged back on top with legs bleeding, he was still smiling because he knew right there he had room to create an amazing finishing hole. Which is exactly what he did, and the par-4 18th hole has been named a top 10 finishing hole in the country. A real signature hole if there ever was one. One national golf publication called the 18th hole, the “Best New Finishing Hole in Golf designed since the year 2000. It would be hard to argue against that.

“The Keep course is built on a special piece of property,” says Keep head golf professional Doug Amor. “There is an old saying in golf about playing it where it lies. But what Bill Bergin and Rees Jones did, was to build it where it lies. The Keep is a great walking course, not always found on mountain designs. The Keep has a chance to be one of the best courses in Georgia and the Southeast.”

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with The Keep head golf professional, Doug Amor.

The par-4 17th hole at the Keep. The green sits in a natural small valley in between rock formations.

THE HIGHLANDS COURSE can play over 7,100 yards. But that’s mostly for championships, the standard scorecard for the average golfer has the tee’s at 6,332 yards and a par-71. If you play the Highlands at 6,332 yards, your probably playing one of the best 6300 yard golf courses you have ever played. So while the 18th hole on the Highlands gets much of the attention, the opening hole a par-5 at 548 yards is a really good opening hole. The first tee shot is downhill and takes the golfer right past the front of the stunningly designed Cloudland Hotel.

BUT FROM THERE the design maneuvers around some ponds, rock cropping’s and fescue waste area’s and some tall trees. Golfers who have played the famed Mike Strantz designs Tobacco Road and Tot Hill Farm near Pinehurst and enjoyed those courses, will love The Highlands.

The par-3 11th hole on the Keep, that plays like a partial island green.

STARTING LAST YEAR, The Highlands Course and the Cairn Course earned a new partner, as McLemore evolved into a golf destination. The Keep is one of the most amazing designs one will ever play. Even with no oceans or large lakes alongside, the views from the course can stretch over 60 miles on a clear day. The Keep is a perfect example of what you can find, when you strip down a property to it’s natural self, leaving only some trees. But with holes that run along a cliff, around a ravine, and through area’s that have rock formations or had the trees removed. The on course and surrounding trees and been canopied upwards, so there are no low-hanging branches.

Dining is always warm and cozy in the McLemore Clubhouse, where multiple menu’s offer guests plenty of selections.

Bergin calls the views around “The Keep” breathtaking, and that is another point that’s really hard to argue against. Currently the course is walking only, but carts will come along later this year as the course matures. But those in carts will be restricted to cart-path only.

“The Keep course sits on one of the top 5 pieces or property, I have ever had the chance to build on,”-Rees Jones.

ONE DOESN’T NEED TO BE on the first tee to realize your about to golf one special golf course. The par-72 course that plays 6,654 yards from the tips, plays longer due to the elevation change. While it’s not often the first hole is the #1 handicap hole, the 441 yard par-4 first hole is just that. Three of the first four holes are handicap seven or lower, so do be ready to play, when your round starts.

THE HOTEL A 245 ROOM Curio design and part of the Hilton Hotel network opened in 2024, complete with a conference center and a spa. Should one need to go for a swim, the outdoor Olympic size pool sits right behind the hotel, and there are dining options like “The Creag” inside the hotel. There are other options for staying on property, including a limited amount golf villas and relaxing cottages.

McLemore might need to build more golf cottages than what is currently on property. Because more golf courses could be coming in the years to come.

“The master plan for the property has the possibility of two more new courses getting built in the future,” says Lecker.

owner Nick Larkin invites golfers to keep their winter golf season rolling at The Shack Golf Club at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview. So call (847)-904-2905 to book a simulator. TheShackGolfClub.com

But some suggest that some of the best food on property is found at the McLemore Clubhouse at the Highlands. There are different menu’s for lunch and dinner, both with plenty of tasty options to choose from. The views from various different area’s in the clubhouse, provide an enjoyable setting for dining. But if the night is on the cool side, there are tables near the fire place, to warm you up.

MCLEMORE IS HEATING UP as a true golf destination. But offers plenty of other activities for after golf, or the non-golfers. Real estate options are now available. So to book a play and stay at America’s newest destination property a real keeper, visit themclemore.com or call (800)-329-8154

MAKEFIELD GOLF PUTTERS LAUNCH THE DEFIANT

  THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook is open daily until 10 Pm. So come check out Toptracer golf, and start getting your game ready for the outdoor season ahead. Because it’s not too early in the year for a lesson or to get a club fitting. McWethy’s Sports Bar located in the dome, is your home for Sunday’s big game, and some outstanding burgers and award winning chicken wings. So book your hitting bay at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome at (630)-739-7600. MGD a home for golf.

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

Nick Biglasco the Director of Brand Development for Makefield putters, shows off the new Defiant Putter by Makefield Golf.

MAKEFIELD GOLF is making a move.

That move is right up the chain in the world of putters, and for the 2025 Makefields newest entry is, “The Defiant.”

Defiant is not a super high tech putter, like a Federation Starship. But one putter with a great balance that will put a steady roll on your golf ball.

Defiant comes with Makefields X-3 weighting system, that gives the golfer a chance to change the balance and set-up of the putter.

But interchangeable neck attachments add a new feature to Makefield’s latest putter. So do you want a straight down look, center shafted, heel shafted, or a slanted neck, Plumbers bend or Double Neck. You have the choice.

Makefield’s Defiant putter, new for 2025.

Defiant is milled in the USA, and made from aircraft 6061 aluminum.

Loft angle is 1.8 degrees, with Lie Angles at 70 degrees.

The standard weighted head is 340-370 grams. With the head of the putter at 4.5 inches wide, and putter depth at 2.5 inches deep.

The putter shaft is a KBS Tour Black with a standard Makefield STD midsized rubber grip. Cost at $349.99.

   THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road, is open for year round golf, having three simulators on the lower level of the clubhouse. So you can play many Top 100 courses, or one of the areas best clubs, The Schaumburg Golf Club indoors on the simulator. Chandlers Chophouse is right upstairs across from the pro shop, which is filling up with supplies for the summer season. SchaumburgGolf.com (847)-885-9000

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Nick Biglasco of Makefield putters on the new Defiant putter.

           THE DEFIANT PUTTER (L) and (R) The Shack Golf Club and owner Nick Larkin (L) and caddie master Greg Kunkel invite you to come to 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview to try out the new putting green, or the seven simulators. The Flatbread pizza’s are very good if your hungry. So book a simulator at TheShackGolfClub.com or (847)-904-2905.

BUT FOR MORE information on Philadelphia area based Makefield Putters, please visit the new website Makefieldgolf.com or call Makefield at (215)-245-5570.

ORCA CUSTOM GOLF BAGS-BUILT FOR YOU

  THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB 401 NORTH ROSELLE ROAD with three simulators is open daily. Schaumburg’s pro shop is starting to fill up with everything golfers will want for the summer season ahead. But while at the club you can enjoy Chandlers Chophouse, home to great burgers. Schaumburggolf.com or (847)-885-9000 #SGC

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

THE PGA Merchandise Show-from the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando Florida.

WHAT’S IN THE BAG!

Well that depends on what you want in or on your golf bag.

So if your looking for something more specialized in golf bags, or personal bags, ORCA golf bags is the place to find exactly what you want in a personalized design. There are plenty of color options, and styles. So if you want a bag you walk with, or one just to throw in the back end of a cart, you can let ORCA create the bag that fits your needs or the look you want.

THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Ave in Glenview. Seven simulators and a putting green. Lessons and club fittings are available. (847)-904-2905 or see TheShackgolfclub.com.

So have you looked at the state of your golf bag lately, is it worn out. Might the strap be ready to break. Do the zippers on the pockets still work. Does the inside of the bag still smell from the all rain that settled in the bottom of your bag, during that round of golf on a bad weather day.

A selection of bags for golf and of the course uses.

ARE YOU one of the many golfers that needs a lighter golf bag for 2025.

IF SO-it’s time to view the ORCA collection.

Do you need a golf bag that’s designed for you. Perhaps one with your name on it, the name of your golf club, the name of your business, or the name of the products your represent. With ORCA golf bags, any of those options can be provided for you.

One of the best things about ORCA golf bags, is that your request for a specialized design, can be created.

ORCA’s bags for every day use, or ones that you can take on your travels, many easily fit in overhead compartments on airplanes.

So if you have client who plays golf, a supplier or a distributor that sells your products. You can give them a way to promote what they do for their business or yours.

ARE YOU planning to play professional golf at some level, get the bag that sells who you are and who you represent.

Golf bags make wonderful gifts at golf outings. ORCA can design those bags, with the name of the tournament, the charity or the organization putting on the event.

WHAT MAKES ORCA so special, is the materials that are used to make the bag. They are bags that do not tear easily, and they do clean up quickly.

SO IF your looking for a bag, that shows your colors, or if your a little more patriotic these days. The red, white and blue combinations are something that ORCA can design for you.

One of the several styles of USA bags, created by ORCA Golf.

SO DOES THE NAME ORCA sound familiar. Because ORCA is often confused as being a ‘Killer Whale’.

But it’s actually the largest member of the dolphin family, more information on the connection to the ORCA dolphins, can be found on the companies website.

ORCA Golf is based in Boca Raton Florida, it is the only women-owned company in the custom golf bag business. CEO Deborah Bennett and chief designer Erica Bennett, are the companies two co-founders.

So if 2025 is the year you need to have a new golf bag. Don’t just go buy the first bag you see in a retail store. Stop and visit orca-golf.com first, see all the options that you can add to your very own personalized golf bag.

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview on ORCA golf products with CEO Deborah (Deb) Bennet.

Coming out this spring, is the companies new Bourbon collection of bags. So if you need a carry-bag, stand alone bag, full sized cart bag, Orca golf bags can provide the bag of your choice. Orca-golf.com or call (754)-216-3065.

SENSATIONAL SOLETA-NICK PRICES NEW DESIGN OPENING EYES

THE SHACK GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview is open daily with seven simulators. Owner Nick Larkin with all-world caddie master Greg Kunkel welcome you to join them and Arnie at the bar. So book your tee time today, or come in to get a lesson or club fitting through the Shack’s professionals.  See TheShackGolfClub.com

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

THE RECENT SOLETA GC MEDIA DAY saw Golf Travel Writers Executive Director Len Ziehm, with Nick Price.

SENSATIONAL SOLETA…

NICK PRICE who carded his fair share on wins on the PGA Tour (18), and three major championships. Is now being a major player in the world of golf course design.

Price’s latest design in Myakka City Florida, shows just how far the 68 year old Price has come in golf course architecture. because during his time on tour, Price played all over the world (41 wins) and saw courses in many countries.

Those experiences show in his design at Soleta, a course that members and their guests will enjoy for years. Currently Soleta has some limited outside play, as the club continues it’s search for new members.

WHEN SOLETA opened for play last November, 150 members had already signed up. that number is now closing in on 200. The membership will cap out at 275-with room for another 25 International members, says head golf professional Aaron Crooks. So if one is looking for a club to join in Florida, Soleta still has room for new memberships. Which is something that is getting harder to find these days in the sunshine state. But those remaining memberships are moving quickly, so if your interested, don’t wait too long.

The 435 yard par-4 first hole at Soleta Golf Club.

While Price’s name is on the club for his design work, another big name from the golf world has put his signature on the practice facilities.

That would be world renown instructor David Ledbetter. Crooks says the practice area is something Ledbetter calls the “Field of Dreams.” Ledbetter did the design work on the practice area, and was on-site through much of construction.

SOLETA HAS a style that looks like Florida, but has wide shaped sandy waste area’s with sweeping dunes that would fit in other places in the golfing world, such as South Africa or Australia. But what’s really amazing is how fast the property came together once construction started. Work was completed in less than one year, and would have been finished sooner, if not for a short hurricane delay.

Audio Player

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview on Soleta Golf Club with head golf professional Aaron Crooks.

The 186 yard par-3 third hole is surrounded by sand, but only requires a straight forward tee shot.

So while there is water on the course, a majority of it does not come into play. But in some cases it does, if you really hit a poor shot at least 40 yards off the fairway.

One thing that puts a damper on a great course design, is homes stacked on top of the course.

That will not be an issue at Soleta. There is only a couple of places that golfers will even see homes from the course, and it will take a solid mid-iron shot to reach the backyards of the houses.

The Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road, is open daily with three simulators to choose from. Courses to pick from include the SGC design, renovated by Todd Quitno. Chandlers Chophouse is right upstairs in the clubhouse. Lessons and club fittings are available. So call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000 or  Schaumburggolf.com.

Price did a nice job in creating ample wide fairways, so there is room to create shots. But those fairways will be nice on windy days, when the ball is moving to the left or to the right.

Another strong feature of Soleta, is the greens. They are plenty large enough to catch golfers approach shots. But Price did not go crazy with wild humps and bumps that one will need to put over.

What is amazing is how the golf course does not look like it just opened. It’s well grown in and looks to have been place for more than a few months.

When the Soleta membership continues to grow, work will start on the permanent clubhouse. Currently there are trailers, serving as locker rooms and the pro shop. Myakka City Florida is straight inland from the Sarasota/Bradenton area, on the east side of Interstate 75. So for more information see Soletagolf.com.