THE SHACK IS GETTING BIGGER WITH MORE IN 24′. Four new simulators with stylish new hitting bays and a putting green. So coming in mid-to late January, what you have been waiting for is ahead in 2024. 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 Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect-LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram.

THE NEW WINGMAN WEDGE-with design from Bernhard Langer. Putting with the Wingman 703 series putter in the Tour Edge Batavia Plant.

THE NEW TOUR EDGE TEMPLATE PUTTERS-BIARRITZ MODEL SHOWN HERE.

THE WINNING CHAMPIONS TOUR PLAYER has spoken.

But not just on the golf course. Because Bernhard Langer’s talking is being done in the Tour Edge Batavia (IL.) plant.

Wedges-Wingman Wedges are what’s new form Tour Edge, and now in pro shops and retail outlets. So if you want to purchase online, you can do that as well.

Tour Edge President and Master Club designer David Glod, worked with Langer to design the latest line of wedges from Tour Edge.

Tour Edge calls the new “Langer Line” the most advanced line by Tour Edge to date. Because what the Wingman Wedge series brings to the table (or golf course) is a wedge with that provides more spin, improved precision, with an enhanced feel on full swings on approach to, and around the green. MSRP at $139.99 Now Available.

LANGERS main contribution to this new wedge, was the inclusion of offset technology in wedges. Because this is what helps keep your hands forward and in front of the leading edge. But it includes bounce that is more in an angle to the turf, leading to better contact.

The Lights Will BE Bright Tonight on Willow Hill, 1350 Willow Road-through Jan. 6th, get in the car and take a drive through. WillowHillLights.com The Golf Dome hours are now 8A to 8P-WillowHilldome.com.

“I am always looking for a forged wedge with the right amount of offset. So I eventually asked the R&D team what they could come up with,” said Langer.

“What came back astounded me with it’s performance. I put one prototype in play the first week I tested it. Because I could just tell that the design was easier to hit and far more consistent than my other wedges.”

The “winged” weight pad on the toe creates a higher Center of Gravity for lower launch and greater spin. Tour Edge Master Club designer David Glod says that after two years of focusing on a breakthrough performance wedge. So we are ready to release Wingman to golfers everywhere.”

THE NEW MISTWOOD GOLFDOME BAR-is not far from the tee line. Mistwoodgolfdome.com Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook (630)-739-7600 McWethy’s Sports Bar and Toptracer golf.

TOUR EDGE TEMPLATE PUTTERS

Are now here and available.

The new line has names of all the famous hole types, from the classic courses, and the famous golf course designers of years ago.

Because when you add names like, Alps, Biarritz, Eden, Maiden, Punchbowl and others. You have hit home with Template putters.

So each putter is milled with CNC Micro-groove face technology . But the grooves are milled with a 20% deeper grooves than in the previous series. So this leads to greater topspin and a more accurate roll.

EARLIER IN 2023-Tour Edge Golf rolled out the new 723 Series of Woods and Irons.

So learn more about Tour Edge 2023 at Tour Edge.com. Tour Edge has announced that the new product line will come out in late summer or early fall of 2024. So until then, enjoy the new changes with the 723 Series, plus the Wingman Wedges and Template Putters.

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook is open daily until 10 Pm. So sign up for lessons, club fitting, and Toptracer golf. Book your hitting bay online or enjoy the food & beverage in McWethy’s Sports Bar. See Mistwoodgolfdome.com (630)-739-7600

THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB-Getting Bigger and Getting Better with four new simulators and a putting green. So stay tuned for mid-January. TheShackgolfclub.com.

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

THE CONCEPT x 7.2 Limited Release Design, inspired by Phantom X 7.

SCOTTY CAMERON has added the new Concept X 7.2 to it’s product line. This new line was inspired by the Phantom X 7.

The Concept X 7.2 is now available in pro shops and retail outlets. MAP is $750.00.

“A tour only prototype we designed for professionals who want the best of both worlds. A putter that swings like a blade with the alignment benefit that comes from a plumbing neck, all with the stability of a mallet,” said Scotty Cameron. Titleist ambassador Davis Riley won his first title at the Zurich Classic in New Orleans with the 7.2 model. Lengths available are 33″, 34″, 35″ LH 34″. Grips are the new Pistolero Plus grip.

TITLEIST has introduced new performance alignment lines on Pro-V’s and Pro V1x golf balls Titleist.com.

U-505 and T200 Utility Irons. Now available.

U.505 is available in 1,2,3, and 4-Irons and is a high launching utility iron that looks and feels better.

T200 utility offered in 2,3, and 4 irons, provide a more solid feel across the face.

So both irons are now available in pro shops and retail outlets.

Shafts are Project X HZRDUS Black 4G 80g/90g. Grip is the Titleist Universal 360 Grip. Price is $269 MAP (Featured Graphite), $399 MAP/Club (Premium Graphite).

T100-T150-T200 and T350 have been on the PGA Tour since May, first being played at the Memorial Tournament. But now available are the T100-T100S-T200 black finished irons.

Scotty Cameron Champions Choice Putters-now available.

SCOTTY CAMERON has now introduced the Champions Select Putters.

The Champions Select Line is now available. So the line does come with a Pistolini Plus Grip and a custom headcover.

Scotty Cameron says,” with the demand of our original Champions Select line in 2021, I just had to do it again. But it had to be special. So it was natural to create some unique Newport and Newport 2 style models for the seasonal release. Lengths include 33″, 34″ 35″ inches. MAP $700.00.

THE VOKEY Wedgeworks 54M Grind

VOKEY WEDGEWORKS has launched the 54 M grind wedge. But which is now available in pro shops and retail stores.

Because the new 54 M Grind has been created for players who like to rotate the club face open and closed to manufacture shots around the green.

So the new 54 M Grind options include. The Six unique toe engravings. Flight Lines alignment feature. The stock shaft is the Dynamic Gold at $200, the grip Stock-Grip Golf Pride 360. MSRP is $225.00

Vokey Wedgeworks Introduce Limited edition 64W

THE NEW VOKEY WEDGEWORKS 64W WEDGE.

But this style comes with a collaboration of Bob Vokey and Vokey Tour Rep Aaron Dill. So players who need a high loft wedge, will have that option.

Because here is the new Black Wedge, with the Jet Black Premium finish. So 64W has a medium width with slight camber, which helps speed through the turf, with an effective bounce of 4 degrees. But now available at an MSRP of $275.00.

Willow Hill lights 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. Willowhilllights.com then Willow Hill Golf Dome current golf dome hours 8a to 8p. WillowHilldome.com

VOKEY WEDGES SM9 are now available. So SM9 is the lightweight wedge made for moderate swing speeds. But control around the greens remains important for these types of golfers. Three colors to choose from, different shafts for men and women. $175 steel shafts MAP and $195 MAP on graphite. Titleist.com or Vokey.com.

TSR1 Clubs for those who want lightweight clubs. So increase your speed when using drivers, irons and hybrids. These TSR1’s are now available in pro shops and retail outlets. See more at Titleist.com and get ready for new products in 2024.

LIGHTS-CAMERA-ACTION-Willow Hill Golf Dome has expanded it’s golf dome hours through Jan. 6th from 8a to 8p. So hit some golf balls and then see the lights show, now through Jan. 6th. Willow Hill Dome-Willow Hill Lights-1350 Willow Road Northbrook.

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

BOB WINSKOWICZ CEO of SQAIRZ Golf Shows (L) is offering a Year-End Blow Out Sale with up to 60% off on certain models-Now through Jan. 3rd. Visit Sqairz.com.

THE CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION-CDGA

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION-CDGA

The Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA) is gearing up for an exciting 2024 golf season.

So this coming year-the CDGA will add a women’s slate of golf events. Because the Illinois Women’s Golf Association, ceased operations earlier this year, after 90 years of service to women’s golf.

So as result, the the CGDA will operate almost 90 competitions during the upcoming year.

“We are excited and proud to conduct a diverse slate of competitions that mirrors the evolving popularity and demographics of golf,” said CDGA Executive Director Robert Markionni. “Our new Women’s Championships will complement our established Championships and Social Competitions in offering a bevy of first-class opportunities to compete and enjoy the game in a unique way.”

But making their debut in 2024 are two events that have moved over from the IWGA. First on the tee will be the 91st Illinois State Women’s Amateur from June 10-12 at the Grove Country Club in Long Grove. Sarah Arnold of St. Charles is the defending champion, winning over Illinois Women’s Open Champion Grace Curran in a one-hole playoff. So the dates for this years event at the Grove are June 10-12.

The Senior Women’s Amateur will be played September 16-18 will be contested at the South Side Country Club. “So we look forward to carrying on the rich tradition of the two State women’s event conducted by the IWGA for decades,” Markonni said.

The Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois, will host the 93rd State Amateur in 2024.

The Atkins Course at the University of Illinois, will be home to the 93rd Illinois State Amateur Championship. The dates are from July 16-18.

But before that, is the 104th CDGA Amateur from June 24-27 at the Beverly Country Club in Chicago.

So the remaining championships include six championships-two for mid-amateurs (25 and up), two for seniors (55 and up) and two for teams. But there will also be 12 USGA qualifiers conducted by the CDGA. 19 in all counting women’s qualifiers. But then in June there is the 62nd annual Radix Cup matches.

THE SEASON GETS UNDERWAY on April 22nd with a CDGA mid-amateur qualifier at Maple Meadows Golf Course. But concludes on October 3rd with the CDGA Senior-Amateur Four-Ball Championship at Ivanhoe Club. So registrations open on January 16th for championships. But then on February 5th for CDGA Social Competitions.

WRAPPING UP PLAY FOR 2023

GLENN PRZYBYLSKI and GREG SEELINGER won the 8th CDGA Senior Amateur Four Ball at Elgin Country Club. Przybylski (Sanctuary GC) and Seelinger (Village Links of Glen Ellyn) defeated David Feder (Conway Farms GC) and Larry Silvestri (The Grove CC) 4 & 3.

MARY ELLEN MARTIN of Winfield won the Illinois Women’s Senior Amateur at Coal Valley Country Club in the Quad Cities. Martin won by 9 shots, with a winning score of 214.

SCOT FRANKENREIDER of Peoria won the Illinois State Senior Amateur by seven shots over Glenn Pryzbylski with a final round 3 under par 68 at Rockford Country Club.

JOHN RAMSEY (Glenview Park GC) and CHADD SLUTZKY (The Grove CC) won their fourth CDGA Four-Ball Title with a victory over Joshua Kirkham (Hinsdale CC) and William Marshall (Hughes Creek GC) at Glen Flora Country Club.

MAC MCCLEAR the fifth year University of Iowa senior went back-to-back winning the Illinois State Amateur at Bloomington Country Club by carding a final round 7 under par 63. McClear was a five shot winner over T.J. Barger of Bloomington. So McClear was the 11th player to win the state amateur back-to-back.

JILLIAN COSLER of Orland Park won the Illinois Women’s Golf Association Junior Championship in a playoff over Nicole Johnson, at Aldeen GC in Rockford.

But for more information on CDGA events for 2024-please visit CDGA.org.

THE SHACK IS OPEN and getting bigger after the first of the year. So expected for mid-to-late January is the new edition to the Shacks-clubhouse. Four new simulators with more comfortable seating, and a new putting green. The Shack at 1717 Chestnut St. in Glenview, call The Shack Indoor Golf Club at (847)-904-2905 TheShackgolfclub.com.

Make it 14 times for Illini Coach Mike Small in the Illinois PGA Section.

THE ILLINOIS PGA IN 2023.

A group of Illinois PGA section professionals, came together in October in the annual Birdies for Charity event.

So with the final totals not in, the figure raised for charity was almost $300,000. Several charities benefit from this event, so great job IPGA.

MIKE SMALL DID IT AGAIN-14 times is doing it again. The head coach of the University of Illinois men’s golf team won the 36 hole-rain shortened Illinois PGA Section championship at Thunderhawk Golf Club in Beech Park. Because of a strong rain, first day play was stopped with no-players finishing their round.

SO HIT THE RESET BUTTON-Which is what several players did. Because Small had to hold off Mistwood Golf Club’s Andy Mickelson, Jim Billiter Ivanhoe Club, and Jeff Kellen Butler National, in a great final round to take home the title for the 14th time.

But Small did not stop there. Because Small carded a final round 8 under par 64, to win the Illinois PGA Section Senior title at the Merit Club. Dave Hannon was second and Roy Biancalana was third. So this allowed Small to lead a field of 8 other IPGA professionals to Port St. Lucie in October in the National Senior PGA Club Professional.

With Small’s top 3 finish in Florida, he advanced to the 2024 Senior PGA Championship at Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor Michigan next May 23-26.

HANNON AND BIANCALANA dueled again the Senior IL. PGA Players Championship with Hannon coming out on top to win the tournament. But it was Biancalana who ended up T-5. So that gave Biancalana enough points to be the 2023 IPGA Senior Player of the Year.

Biancalana won the 2023 IPGA Senior Match Play at the Ridge Country Club, with a 4 & 2 win in the championship match over David Paeglow. The win gave Biancalana a three peat in the event. Plus a tie with Jim Sobb as the only players to win the tournament three times.

MISTWOOD’S ANDY MICKELSON was named the 2023 Illinois PGA Player of the Year.

      THE MISTWOOD SIMULATOR SUITE at the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook on Rt. 53. (630)-739-7600 book it today at Mistwoodgolfdome.com. GRACE CURRAN won a playoff to win the Phil Kosin Illinois Women’s Open at Mistwood Golf Club on Renwick Road in Romeoville. McWethy’s Restaurant is open at Mistwood GC (815)-254-3333.

Brian Carroll of the The Hawk Country Club rallied from sevens back to win the 2023 Illinois PGA Players Championship. Photo by Nick Novelli.

Brian Carroll of The Hawk Country Club rallied to win the 2023 IPGA Players Championship.

So for Carroll it was his second IPGA Major Championship, after winning the 2022 IPGA Section Championship.

Chris Green of the Glenview Club shot an impressive 7 under par 63, in tough weather conditions to be in command after 18 holes.

But things changed during round two and Carroll shot a 3-under par 69, that allowed him to comeback and win.

The championship was held at the Twin Orchard Country Club in Long Grove, on both of the clubs courses.

WILLOW HILL LIGHTS and the Willow Hill Dome at 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook is the place to be this week. Golf hours have been extended this week from 8a to 8p. So then after golf hit the really good light show. WillowHillDome.com

Kevin Flack finished in fourth place, which for the second time in three years earned him the 2023 IPGA Assistant Player of the Year Award.

But for more information please visit IPGA.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM GOLFERS ON GOLF-Ed Stevenson, Bill Berger, Len Ziehm and Rory Spears.

THE GOG BLOG returns on December26th.

OUR SPONSORS ABOVE-The Shack, Willow Hill Dome, Heritage Oaks GC, and the Mistwood Golf Dome are closed on Christmas Day-but go visit them starting December 26th. Because they are great places to be during he winter golf season.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERY ONE. AND HERE is to wrapping up the 2023 golf season in the week ahead. RS

  WILLOW HILL DOME-WILLOW HILL HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW-This summer Willow Hill Golf returns. So now through Jan. 6 expanded golf hours in the dome 8a to 8p. But also through Jan. 6th the Willow Hill holiday light show-the best light show in the North Shore so enjoy the drive between the lights and put on the radio with the Christmas music that goes with the theme. But for the golfers, the largest golf dome in Chicago history at 160 yards, that allows you to track the ball flight. 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. Get more information at WillowHillDome.com or WillowHillLights.com #TisTheSeasonAtTheHill

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

Cabot Citrus Farms now in 2023-taking tee times for preview play from late January to the Grand Opening in fall of 2024. CabotCitrusfarms.com Brooksville Florida.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CALLAWAY GOLF-producers of the Paradym Driver, the winningest driver in 2023.

11 Wins on the PGA Tour, winners of three major championships. Plus the overall winningest driver in professional golf, that includes wins on the LIV Golf Tour.

So right now you can get discounts on Callaway Paradym, just visit your local pro shop, golf retail store, club fitter, or online Callawaygolf.com.

BLACKBERRY OAKS Golf Course in Bristol has 2024 Platinum Memberships at $250 off the normal price through Jan. 1st. See BlackberryOaks.com (630)-553-7170.

DALLAS BASED TOPGOLF has now officially broken ground on it’s new facility in Greensboro North Carolina, the new facility will open along Interstate I-40. Topgolf Greensboro will open sometime in late 2024. Details at Topgolf.com.

THE TRUE Links wear winter collection is out, with a variety of options, whether the weather is cold, rainy, windy or otherwise. Plenty of styles and colors to choose from. So visit TRUElinkswear.com for more information or to make an order.

Woodlake Country Club expands partnership with Bobby Jones Links

Bobby Jones Links has expanded it’s consulting agreement with the Woodlake Country Club in Vass North Carolina.

Seven years ago the club was devastated by flooding from hurricane Matthew. So the rebirth of the club continues under General Manager Jeff Crabbe who joined the club last August.

Woodlake is reopening in phases, but the soft opening so far includes the 18-hole par 72 Kris Spence renovation of Woodlake’s golf course. So learn more about the reopening of the community of Woodlake at WoodLakeCountryClubNC.com.

The Sun Mountain C-130 golf cart bag. Sunmountain.com

Sun Mountain’s best selling C-130 golf bag is now available in a stand bag version.

With a growing abundance for pocket space and continually evolving golfer-friendly features have kept the C-130 in the top spot for over 10+ years.

But if you a golfer that wants a cart bag-but needs a stand bag for the practice range.

The C-130 golf stand bag offers nine pockets plus cart friendly features like a leg lock system, quick-release carry strap, cart strap tunnel, and cart friendly bottom. C-130 comes with a 15-way top with a putter well. So the bag available in five colors, is now available at $289.99. So see more details at Sunmountain.com or (800)-227-9224. But while checking out Sun Mountain-see the website for Sun Mountain Tour Series rainwear, available for both men and women. Prices range from $239.99 to $299.99.

Pawley’s Plantation Golf and Country Club has reopened after a Jack Nicklaus design group renovation. Details at myrtlebeackgolftrips.com

PAWLEYS PLANTATION inn Myrtle Beach S.C. is open again after an extensive greens and bunker project.

Founders Group International (FGI) contracted with the Jack Nicklaus Group to restore the golf course, and preserve the original integrity of Jack Nicklaus’ work.

Pawley’s Plantation opened in the late 1980’s, and when the courses is attached to one of games great icons. “You want to make sure the course continues to fulfill it’s potential going forward,” said Steve Mays, President of the Founders Group International.

The golf course closed on May 2nd, and was reopened five months later on October 2nd. Nicklaus returned to the property in 2018 on it’s 30th anniversary, and starting taking notes on what could be improved. “We worked exclusively from Jack’s notes said Troy Vincent lead design architect for the project. So see more details about the project at FoundersGolf.com and visit MyrtleBeachgolftrips.com.

The course is part of the 12 course Hammock Coast Golf Trail. Learn more about the trail at HammockCoastGolfTrail.com.

LONG BAY GOLF CLUB in Myrtle Beach another Jack Nicklaus design, reopened on August 14th after a redesign of it’s greens. So learn more at LongBayGolfClub.com.

The Battlefield-a new par 3 course on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in Monkey Island Oklahoma.

THE SHANGRI-LA RESORT in Monkey Island in Oklahoma.

Has now opened “The Battlefield” a $15 million dollar par-3 course, is the latest addition to the resort.

Owner Eddy Gibbs has spent over $100 million dollars on his property in the last 13 years.

So with the addition of The Battlefield, the Shangri-La resort now has 45 holes, spread out across the lakefront.

Tom Clark and Kevin Atkinson-designed the 3,000 yard Battlefield layout, that comes with over 100 feet of elevation change. The short course has a 165 yard warm-up area that comes complete with a 10,000 square foot layout. This fun design has recorded 12-holes-in-one in the short period after the opening. The course is a par-54 with holes playing from 110 yards to 245 yards.

The resort has 119 rooms, plus indoor and outdoor pools. Shangri-La offers plenty of other activities in addition to golf. So learn more at ShangrilaOk.com

THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB 1717 Chestnut Street in Glenview-expansion is underway and coming into play by Mid-to late January. 4 NEW simulators and a new putting green. Theshackgolfclub.com 847-904-2905.

ST. JOHNS RESORT in Plymouth Michigan outside of Detroit has announced Stan Witko as the new Director of Golf. The resorts golf operation has been undergoing changes and improvements to the golf courses, including a new putting course that will open in 2024, by architect Ray Hearn. Details at StJohnsresort.com.

CHERRY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB in Denver Colorado, celebrated the opening of it’s new 95,000 square foot clubhouse. 2023 marked the clubs 100th centennial anniversary. This past August the club hosted it’s third USGA-Amateur championship. See more at CHCC.org.

The Asheville Municipal golf project.

SO THE TIME HAS ARRIVED-FOR THE DONALD ROSS DEISGNED ASHEVILLE NC. Municipal Golf Course. The renovation has started as of October of 2022.

But the work will continue through fall and winter of of 2023-2024. The golf course is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Cost will run at $3.5 million dollars, and will be funded by the City of Asheville, user fees and grants.

So the renovation comes at a time where infrastructure has deteriorated over the course of a century.

Architect Kris Spence has been retained by the Donald Ross Society in returning the golf course to form. “This project has been a long time coming and was very much needed,” said Pat Warren, course general manager and head professional. ‘We’ve gotten so many favorable comments from our regular golfers who cannot believe the transformation. So there is a lot of excitement about what’s happening and what is to come.”

The golf course will celebrate it’s centennial in 2027. Ross himself knew the experience of public municipal golf, would be a money-maker. Records found this quote from Ross about municipal golf. “It is the greatest step ever taken to make it the game of the people, as it should be. The municipal courses are all money makers. So I am naturally conservative, yet I am certain that in a few years we will see golf played much more generally than it is being played now.”

So the overview of the scope of work includes. Thinning out of trees, cart path repair, sodding of trees and fairways where needed, new signage and pin-flags, upgrades to the golf shop, restoration of 10 bunkers. So to learn more please visit ashevillegc.com.

THE GOG BLOG returns with more golf news on Tuesday December 26th. RS

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME now offers the simulator-or in the shell. So take your pick from where you want to hit. But you can sign up today for individual lessons or get fitted for new clubs. See all the sports in McWethy’s Sports Bar. Toptracer golf events are going on all winter long. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome (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 Facebook/Instagram/LinkedIn

THE RIBBON IS CUT-We are open. Golf architect Bill Coore (L) helps Ben Cowan-Dewar open Cabot Saint Lucia Golf.

THE GRAND OPENING IS IN THE REVIEW MIRROR.

CABOT SAINT LUCIA is now open, along with the latest breathtaking golf design from Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.

The Cabot Collection that started in Eastern Canada, and has spread to the Caribbean, the West Coast of Florida, and Northwest Canada under the direction and leadership of Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and Co-Founder of Cabot, continues to blossom with properties of paradise.

While golfers across America anxiously await the opening the most amazing new golf destination of 2024, Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville Florida. They now have a new location to travel to in the Caribbean. Because of the now open Cabot St. Lucia, the latest from the Cabot Collection.

The 16th hole on the Point Hardy Golf Club-Cabot St. Lucia, designed by Coore and Crenshaw.

CABOT ST. LUCIA is 1 1/2 miles of coastline that will leave one speechless, or simply saying-wow. Because it has that kind of factor in it.

The Point Hardy Golf Club which is an 18-hole Coore and Crenshaw design, has numerous dramatic views of the Caribbean Sea.

But Cabot St. Lucia offers more than just golf, the real estate opportunities create a location for the home of a lifetime. Because those opportunities are spread out over 375 acres on the northern tip of Saint Lucia, over crowding will never be an issue. So while the property is now “open,” there are still more amenities to come. They include a beach club, restaurant, expansive clubhouse, luxury residences, and world class fitness facilities.

A rendering of the new Point Hardy Clubhouse.

“When I first saw the land that would be come Cabot St. Lucia. I knew it was the perfect canvas to create something truly awe-inspiring,” said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO Co-founder of Cabot. “Opening Cabot St. Lucia and Point Hardy Golf Club has been a dream come true. I am honored to work alongside dedicated, created and talented team whose vision and hard work has brought us here today.”

So what is the Point Hardy Golf Club. It’s 18 holes of Coore and Crenshaw pure breathtaking golf. Because the holes sit above the Atlantic Ocean, while winding through the St. Lucia terrain. Coore and Crenshaw’s first Caribbean design has already been called a masterpiece that cuts through rocky cliffs and jutting into the ocean.

Point Hardy Golf club has nine holes that run along the ocean, but the final holes come with forced carries that will create exciting finishes to everyone’s round of golf.

THE WILLOW HILL GOLF DOME in Northbrook is expanding it’s golf hours for the next couple of weeks. THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB in Glenview is expanding its building in a couple of weeks. 8 to 8 golf at Willow Hill coming this week. But 4 new simulators and putting green are coming next month at The Shack-WillowHillDome.com ShackIndoorGolfClub.com. In the dome or in the simulator, golf season is not ending.

The par 4-8th hole at the Point Hardy Golf Club.

“So it’s very possible that Cabot St. Lucia is the most visibly stunning piece of land we have ever worked with,” said Coore.” co-principal of Coore and Crenshaw.

“It was a privilege to work with the Cabot team on this one-of-a-kind site, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have accomplished. So this project was truly a labor of love, and initial feedback on this enchanting property as one of the world’s most sought-after golf destinations is very special to Ben and and me.”

Cabot St. Lucia has already sold over $160 million in real estate sales. Phase One was sold out quickly and Phase 2 sales (priced at 2 million to 11 million) are moving swiftly.

Golf will not be the only activity at Cabot St. Lucia. Because there will also be hiking, tennis, pickleball, basketball and plenty of water options. So to learn more about Cabot St. Lucia please visit cabotstlucia.com.

IN THE SIMULATOR SUITE or IN THE DOME SHELL-golf either way at the Mistwood Golf Dome, on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Book a hitting bay and play Toptracer golf, get a golf lesson, or club fitting-tis the season for new sticks. Don’t forget to hit the new bar in the dome, or McWethy’s Sports Bar with the Best Wings in Bolingbrook. (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-LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram

Reynolds Lake Oconee in Greensboro GA.

HE’S BAAACK!

So back in 1996, architect Tom Fazio was at Reynolds Lake Oconee (called Reynolds Plantation at that time), and was overseeing the dirt being moved around on his latest design.

But one year later in 1997-The National Golf course opened at RLO. The two nines were called the Ridge and the Bluff.

So then in 2000 the third nine-called The Cove joined the National 18. This allowed for variations of play.

The large amount of bunkers, that exceed the count of bunkers on RLO’s other courses, has left The National one of America’s top residential courses by one national publication.

But Fazio has now created a new nine holes that will be combined with the Bluff-Nine and become a new 18-hole golf course.

The National-Bluff Nine-hole 5.

“My goal is always to create distinctive, one-of-a-kind golf courses,” says Fazio. “There’s a lot of terrain variation-lots of up’s and down’s, in’s and outs, twists and turns-which is great for golf. That’s what makes this a fine natural setting.”

So the first five holes will use the existing Bluff routing, followed by the nine new holes. This will include a new ninth green that will sit along Lake Oconee. Then the final four holes will connect back to the Bluff.

Fazio adds,” members will enjoy this golf course because it will have character and never play the same way. So this new course will provide a challenge and have endless possibilities of capturing your emotions and feelings.”

“We are fortunate that Tom Fazio again has applied his vision to Reynolds Lake Oconee to create nine new holes and integrate them with the world-class golf course he originally designed. So it’s an honor for our community,” said Robert Merck, global head of MetLife Investment Management, investment manager of Reynolds Lake Oconee. “Our members and their guests are certain to be challenged and energized by his latest design.”

This new course will open in expected to open in late 2024 (hope is for September), it will be private, and accessible to Reynolds Lake Oconee members. So with this addition, Reynolds will expand to having seven golf courses.

Willow Hill Golf Dome on Willow road in Northbrook, is expanding it’s golf hours to 8a to 8p for a short window through the holidays-likely from Dec. 26 to Jan 6. Stay tuned for details Willowhilldome.com

PROJECT UPDATE: Work on property has been advancing for several months now. The new nine has been shaped, graded and some of cart paths are in the preliminarily stage. Some rye grass has been spread on several fairways to retain soil.

Fairways and greens will be sprigged in mid-June. Greens will be tif eagle, with bunkers similar to Great Waters course designed by Jack Nicklaus. The fairways will be what is on the rest of the National Course. So the bunkers and greens have been dug up and reshaped. So they will match the new nine.

But for more information visit Reynoldslakeoconee.com/seventh-course.

THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB is about to expand to seven simulators and a new putting green. Book your hitting bay at TheShackGolfClub.com 1717 Chestnut Street in Glenview. The Shack’s expansion is expected to be complete in Mid to late January.

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

The surviving members of the 2023 Illinois Golf Hall of Fame (L-R) Dr. Randy Kane-Dave Ryan-Tim O’Neal and Bruce Patterson) and or representatives of those inducted who are deceased. Photo by Nick Novelli.

THE ILLINOIS GOLF HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2023 HAS BEEN INDUCTED.

Last month it became official. The Illinois Golf Hall of Fame inducted the Class of 2023 into the Hall of Fame at the Glen Club, in Glenview Illinois.

This year six new members were inducted.

“This esteemed 20th Illinois Golf Hall of Fame class captures the breadth of golf in the state, with early pioneer and Olympian Margaret Abbott Dunne, modern day standout player Dave Ryan, behind the scenes innovator Dr. Randy Kane, multi-tasker Harry Collins, and charity-minded PGA professionals Tim O’Neal and Bruce Patterson,” said Selection Committee chair Tim Cronin. “It couldn’t be more diverse or vibrant.”

Tim Cronin (L) with inductee Tim O’Neal (R), O’Neal spent 22 years of his golf career as the head golf professional at North Shore Country Club in Glenview. Photo by Nick Novelli.

THE INDUCTEE’S…

MARGARET ABBOTT-DUNNE-who honed her game at the Chicago Golf Club. Abbott Dunne was the first woman to win and Olympic competition during the year 1900 in Paris France.

But when it came to handicaps, she went from a 19-to scratch in one year.

HARRY COLLIS was a golfer, club professional and course architect. Collis also held the role of superintendent and turf grass innovator for some 40 years. So his strain of Bentgrass was planted on Midwest courses from his Flossmoor nursery for decades. Collis had four top 10 finishes in the Western Open.

Work is moving forward on the new simulators at The Shack in Glenview. Coming in mid-to late January. THE SHACK GOLF CLUB 1717 Chestnut Street. 847-904-2905.

DR. RANDY KANE-known as “The Family Doctor” for his work monitoring turf conditions at CDGA courses.

Kane was the first director of turf programs for the CDGA, a position he held for 21 years.

TIM O’NEAL the long time head golf professional at North Shore Country Club. So with O’Neal’s career attached to his mentor the famed NSCC professional Bill Ogden, O’Neal returned to NSCC in 1995 and stayed 22 years. O’Neal was named section professional of the year twice, first in Florida in 1994, then in Illinois in 2005. But still today while retired from NSCC, O’Neal is still serving as President of the Illinois PGA Foundation.

BRUCE PATTERSON is a two-time Illinois PGA Professional of the Year (1993, 1996). But Patterson played a large role in creating the Illinois PGA Foundation, and was President of the foundation for a decade.

But Patterson is widely known for his role as head golf professional/director of golf at the Butler National Golf Club in Oak Brook. So during that time in 1995-96 he served as the Illinois PGA Section President. Patterson earned the designation of Master Professional, and was known for teaching his student how to escape from bunkers.

the new look in the Mistwood Golf Dome Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600. Lessons, Toptracer, club fittings-McWethys Sports Bar.

DAVE RYAN of Taylorville Illinois was a major player in senior amateur golf. Because Ryan won the Illinois Senior Amateur four times (2009, 2013, 2015 and 2016. But the crown jewel of his amateur career was winning the USGA U.S. Senior Amateur at Old Warson Country Club in St. Louis. Because of his stellar senior amateur play, Ryan won the CDGA Senior Player of the Year-seven times in eight years. So Ryan also carries a winning record in the Radix Cup, of 8-5-2, also recording a hole-in-one in Radix Cup play at Oak Park Country Club.

But you can learn more about the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame at IPGA.com. Visiting the IGHOF is free daily at the Glen Club in Glenview Illinois.

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME has some new looks this season. So come enjoy the  new bar in the dome, and the three Mistwood Golf Simulators in the dome. So play it either way at the dome, in the shell or on the screen. The Mistwood Golf Dome is on Rt.53 in Bolingbrook and home to TopTracer and McWethy’s Sports Bar. Call today and book your bay, or simulator at Mistwoodgolfdome.com or by calling (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-LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram.

Medinah’s flag pole remains in place near the 18th green of Course #3

MEDINAH’S COURSE #3 IS DONE

Well at least the construction is done, and what’s left is just for the course to go through the grow-in stage.

So if Mother Nature is not too harsh this winter, the course could reopen by late June. Fingers are crossed by the club and the members that, that will happen.

GOLFERS ON GOLF was the first media outlet to be allowed to walk the golf course, since it changed from dirt-piles to a golf course with at least some grass on the fairways, greens, and tee boxes. Sand has arrived in the bunkers, and to aide the grow-in process, the greens were mostly tarped over. But they were allowed to get some air and sun on the 60+ degree day, that GOG did it’s walk through.

From the tee of Hole #5, or is it #1 for at least a week in 2026. The new OB fence is on the left side of the fairway, but inside the new service road for maintenance vehicles.

The 2+ hour tour started on the fifth hole, a hole that could be hole #1 come late September in 2026.

Because with the bulk of the realignment of the golf course coming on what had been holes 12-18, the PGA Tour is looking to bring the new holes into play late in matches during the Presidents Cup.

But in match play, many matches end around hole 14 or 15. So Medinah’s holes 1-4, will likely play as holes 15-16-17-18 during President’s Cup week, with Hole #5 being the first tee box. Routing thousands of patrons to the fifth hole area during championship week to see opening tee shots could be an adventure. But the PGA Tour has almost 2 years on how to figure it out.

A bunker nest guards the right side of hole 6, with the OB fence on left.

Course #3’s hole numbers have changed. But not all of them, so let’s see if this confusing or not.

Ready-here we go!

Holes 1-6 are numbered the same. But now the new hole #7, is the old #10 that runs east to west along Lake Avenue. The former hole #7, is now hole #10. A flip-flop is also true for holes 8 and 11. Hole #8 is the old hole #11. The old hole #11 is now #8. Got that. Okay hole #9 is still #9, and hole #12 is still #12. Holes #13-14 are new holes. But hole #15 is the old hole #16. With holes 16-17-18 now being new holes.

The new hole #7 (old10) has changed slightly. There is more sand coming into the green. Plus some elevation changes in the fairway that previous was flat.

CREDIT AUSTRALIAN DESING FIRM OCM-in being very creative in putting some BITE back into Course #3.

So the members that told the renovation committee, they wanted a championship golf course, a course ranked in the Top 100, and one that could hold the type of tournaments it has hosted in the past. Well it seems that OCM has delivered just that.

OCM that stands for Ogilvy (Geoff) the 2006 U.S. Open champion, partners Ashley Mead and Michael Cocking looked to eliminate the knock on course #3. Which was that the par-3 holes all looked alike and played the same way. That has now changed.

Work is moving along at The Shack Golf Club in Glenview. Owner Nick Larkin is adding 4 new simulators and a putting green by mid-to late January. TheShackGolfClub.com 1717 Chestnut Street in Glenview.

The risk-reward pond on the old 14th hole is gone. But the water area that was short and right of the 12th green, has gotten bigger. Because the green has been moved close to the water.

Par-3 13th, is now the short 135 yard par-3, water is no longer in play. Holes 14 and 15 are new holes, with the 15th green in the area of the old 16th green.

16 is now a dogleg right over the water, and heads back towards the middle of the golf course. Not Medinah Road as it previously played.

Hole 17 is still a par-3, it plays over the water, but not towards the clubhouse, instead it plays away from the clubhouse heading south. Finally, 18 plays more like the routing prior to the 1988 U.S. Senior Open. Hole #18 runs east to west and towards Medinah Road and not the club house.

Hole #18 from the back tee. 485 yards-par-4. Welcome to Medinah.

So for the record, the renovation was not just done because Justin Thomas shot 25 under par at the 2019 BMW Championship.

Even Thomas hopes Course # 3 was not blown up because of his score that week, Thomas told Golfers on Golf.

But when you add up the cost of the work that needed to be done, due to an aging infrastructure, which will tear up the course anyway. It was smart play to make all changes at once. The par-3 design can no longer be a bone-of-contention among course raters and media critics. But the par-3 routing is different, because three par-3’s are now on the back side. So there is only one par-3 on the front nine. The overall par for the course is still 72, but it plays 37-35=72.

OCM is (L-R) Ogilvy-Mead and Cocking.

So besides the hole routing, what else changed or got improved.

Here are the new stats for Medinah #3.

87% increase to green size (4.75 Acres).          68% increase to tee boxes (3.75 Acres)            157% increase to fairways (57 Acres)                116% increase to bunker size (4.6 Acres)        71% decrease to mowed rough (32.5 Acres)

OLD COURSE #3 Square footage. Greens 103,089-New Course footage 208,986.

Tees Old Course 98,500, 165,000 on the new course #3. Fairways 953,000 old course #3, new course #3 2,450,000. Bunkers Old course #3 94,000-new course #3 203,000. Rough old course #3 rough, 4,900,000, new course #3 rough 1,433,000. Fescue/Native Grass old course #3 footage 0 feet. New course #3, 1,750,000 square feet.

DRAINAGE WILL BE MUCH IMPROVED: Because when you add over 40 miles of drainage, even to a big spread out property like Course #3, it does make a difference. The renovation costs were over $20 million, but not as high as the $30 million spent at 2023 PGA Championship course Oak Hill in New York.

When the golden fescue grows in, the wispy thin fescue won’t force golfers and caddies to step on the golf ball to find it. Medinah will have a new look to it, different than in the past. But when the course opens in 2024, some things will change for a while. 100 rounds per day in 2024, no carts in 2024, no guest play for 2024-members only, for now. So even the halfway house will be different, new chairs, tables, carpeting and a paint job. Toss in some grab and go items for golfers, which will help keep the pace of play moving.

So throw in new short course-full of par-3’s, and a new Himalaya style putting green (found on the ground of the previous 18th hole fairway), and Medinah has really added to it’s already great golf experience.

Golfersongolf.com thanks the members of the Medinah renovation committee and the OCM team who have helped our work in covering the project. So for details see MedinahCC.org.