THE SHACK GOLF CLUB 1717 Chestnut Avenue Glenview. WILLOW HILL LIGHTS WILLOW HILL GOLF DOME 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. check online for New Years Day hours.

                                                                      THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Enjoy winter golf at all three above locations-see online for New Years Day Hours.

HAPPY NEW YEAR-Here’s to a Great 2024, with more golf and fun on the golf course.

ENJOY THE DAY-THE FOOTBALL AND THE HOCKEY-Kapalua is coming up this week.

Happy New Year from Ed Stevenson-Bill Berger-Len Ziehm and Rory Spears. The Gog Blog returns tomorrow-looking ahead to 2024. RS

  THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB IS GETTING BIGGER IN 2024-Owner Nick Larkin is expanding the Shack-from 4 to 7 simulators and the addition of a putting green. So the bigger Shack is expected to be complete by the end of January. Right now you should plan your simulator time or special event before everything gets booked. Golf and the football playoffs are a great combination. But you can plan a golf trip while playing the course in advance at the Shack-plenty of options to pick from. So call the Shack at (847)-904-2905 or visit TheShackGolfclub.com 1717 Chestnut St. Glenview.

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

TWO of my favorite pictures from 2023-were taken early in the year. First on the left in the Sqairz Shoe booth at the PGA Merchandise Show. (R) with Angela Moser the lead associate designer for Tom Doak in the construction phase on the new Pinehurst #10.

PUTTING OUT FOR 2023…

GOLFERS ON GOLF had a good year in 2023-the 33rd year for the three time award winning (soon to be four) radio show on WNDZ AM 750. Golfers on Golf-DOT COM missed a beat with me being both sick and then injured. But finished strong over the last two months of the year.

NOT BEING able to play very much this year was a killer. So that will not happen again in 2024. My new Callaway Paradym’s didn’t get the use I was hoping for, but they are great clubs. I think I only got about 15 rounds in with them, so they still feel new. I am not sure what will be in my bag by April of 2024, but still time to figure that out.

BUT IF YOUR THINKING NEW CLUBS for 2024-it’s not too early to get fitted. The Mistwood Golf Dome is a great place for fittings-see Eric or Matt. But there are other options, such as Heritage Oaks GC in Northbrook. But for putter fittings Bettinardi Studio “B” in Oakbrook is a great option. So if it’s one thing I learned, you can’t learn enough about putting. 2024 will be plenty of practice putting and putting study. Because it’s time to get the ball in the hole quicker.

  (L-R) at Bettinardi Studio B-in the Tour Edge Plant-in the Sam Putt lab at Mistwood Golf.

With LAB Putters CEO & Highland Park IL. native Sam Hahn at Rich Harvest Farms-watch for DF3 putters coming out in 2024. LAB Golf makes really good putters, even if some are a little funky looking.

SO THERE IS plenty of social media chat, about favorite rounds for 2023, best new courses played, etc.

Here are some of my lists.

BEST NEW COURSES PLAYED. 1. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. 2. Cypress Course-Bonita Bay Club. 3. True Blue. 4. The Preserve at Reynolds Lake Oconee 5. The Landing at RLO.

BEST ROUNDS OF 2023. 1. Pinehurst 8, the new renovation is really good. 2. CCNC-Dogwood, one of the great courses in the Pinehurst area. 3.The Grove CC, final round of 2023, was starting to feel more like myself after a long layoff. 4. Cypress Course-Bonita Bay Club, Tom Marzoff’s work on the restoration was really good. 5.Mid Pines-the Kyle Franz renovation of the old Donald Ross classic is outstanding.

WILLOW HILL LIGHTS-the holiday show through Jan. 6-The Golf Dome with expanded golf hours through Jan. 6. 8a to 8p, hit balls in Chicago’s largest dome, 160 yards long the Willow Hill Golf Dome. Range balls supplied by Illini Guy Kent Knebelkamp. Willow Hill 1350 Willow road in Northbrook. WillowHillDome.com or WillowHillLights.com.

WEIRD THINGS COME IN 2’S. So one day in Pinehurst, my morning round on Dogwood at CCNC is the Par-3 third hole. 157 yards, and my 7-Iron one-hops the flagstick. No-ace, just a putt from the fringe for birdie, nope, a ho-hum par and on to the 4th hole. THEN IN THE AFTERNOON at Mid Pines on the par-4 12th hole. PW from 125, bang off the flag stick-no Eagle-but then missed the 18 footer for 3 and I’ll take the par-again. My crazy 36 hole day in Pinehurst-Sothern Pines.

HAVE YOU EVER tried playing golf hitting off a mat all day. Because I did for the first time at the U.S. Sr. Open media day at Sentry World. Sentry World is a great course, but hitting off mat’s is a really bad experience. Don’t try this at home or ever on a golf course. Not worth the time or the money to play golf that way. A few divots on the course 6 weeks before the open, would not have been a major disaster.

GOLF TOURNAMENTS-I had a great deal a fun working the John Deere Classic, the BMW Championship and LIV Golf Chicago. I wish BMW was back in town in 2024 and as of now, it won’t return until 2028.

GOLF RENOVATION PROJECTS-Cog Hill #4 is underway, Medinah #3 was closed all year, so both will start 2024 on the bench. I’ll talk the 2024 projects next week when I look ahead.

PGA TOUR-LIV GOLF the surprise was the deal bringing both sides together that still has to be finalized. I’m for Jay Monahan PGA Tour commissioner (for now) being shown the door. But for all you anti-LIV cry babies-you should go too-grow up.

THIS YEAR working at two courses was fun-but cut down my golf play. I was told once, you want to play less golf-work in the golf business. In 2023 I found there is some truth in that statement. But I wouldn’t trade the experiences and the people I met both at Heritage Oaks GC and The Grove CC for anything. 2023 will be the year I didn’t play enough golf. So that won’t happen again next year.

WHAT THE NUMBERS TELL US-in 2023 we learned the numbers from 2022 were as follows. GOLFS money portrait is $226 Billion dollars, which ties in purchases, travel and homes bought on golf courses. GOLF brings 1.65 million jobs, with over 1 million directly tied to the industry. THE GOLF INDUSTRY raised $4.6 Billion dollars for charity- a 16% increase from 2016. GOLF now has 41.1 million players, up from 32 million in 2016. GOLF is not an old persons game anymore-48% of golfers are between ages 6 and 34. THE SPORT OF GOLF is getting healthier for the environment, now using 29% less water in 2022, than it did in 2005.

IN CLOSING Golfers on Golf wishes all of our readers and listeners a Happy New Year. So from Ed Stevenson, Bill Berger, Len Ziehm and yours truly Rory Spears, we look forward to talking golf with you in 2024, and seeing you on the golf course. The Gog Blog returns January 2nd-2024. RS

  Ai-ONE PUTTER BY ODYSSEY IS HERE-NOW Available. So come see Mistwood’s Matt Carter (L) or Eric Russell (R) in the Mistwoodgolfdome.com on Rt. 53 located in Bolingbrook. (630)-739-7600 So it’s the time to get started for 2024 with a new putter.

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

YES YOU CAN-PUTT SMARTER. Ai now available through Odyssey. More models available in February.

YES YOU CAN!

So now is the time to putt smarter. Because it’s time to get better on the greens, lower your handicap and win some bets.

So do you need 21% of your off center putts struck-to end up closer to the hole. Because the simple answer is, yes you do.

So do take a look at the Ai-One insert and give it chance before you buy another flat-stick.

Willow Hill Lights now through Jan 6th. 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. WillowhillLights.com

THE AI WINDOW designed and called the Panlite Window, a unique automotive polymer, allows a showcase on the back of the insert. SL 90 Shaft is a lightweight steel shaft 20-230 grams of counterbalance weight in the butt end. COLOR is the Navy Blue PVD Finish, a sharp look that sets them apart from other putters. INTERCHANGEABLE Front Weights the 5-10-15-20 gram weights are removable. So golfers can dial in the head weight of their preference.

THE Ai-Milled Putter-the Titanium milled putter will produce more consistent ball ball speeds even on off-center hits. Leaving the ball closer to the hole. All putter heads in this line are 100% milled, and come with the Navy Blue PVD Finish.

THE Ai line of putters. Photo’s for this story courtesy of Callaway Golf.

THE FIRST of this release of new putters, came out in early November.

But there will be another group of them coming out in early February.

So which putter is right for you. Go test them out at your favorite club fitting location.

But for those of you, wanting to know more. IF YOU are in the Chicagoland area, visit the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook on Rt. 53. (630)-739-7600. See Eric Russell or Matt Carter for fittings of a new Odyssey Ai-Putter. Because it’s not too early to get started for the 2024 golf season, Callawaygolf.com.

MISTWOOD GOLF DOME-on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook is rolling out the new, to end the 2023 golf year. VIP Simulator suites, new dome bar, Toptracer golf, McWethy’s Sports Bar and more. Individual lessons, group lessons, club fittings, team golf events, that include the upcoming Icebowl. So learn more Mistwoodgolfdome.com (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

THE CARDINAL MASTER PLAN for St. Johns-by architect Ray Hearn.

ST. JOHN’S RESORT DEBUT’S NEW PUBLIC GOLF-IN DETROIT METRO.

BECAUSE IT hasn’t happened in over 20 years, adding new public golf to the Detroit Metro area is special.

So how is it happening. Thank the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation.

The Plymouth Michigan project is the first of it’s kind in over 20 years. So the golf and the resort are combining to be part of a $50 million dollar resort transformation.

“It’s hard to believe that a golf rich state like Michigan and the Metro-Detroit area has not had a new high-end public golf facility in so long,” said Paul Wegert, CEO of Boutique Hotel Professionals managing director of St. John’s Resort. “We believe the area is prime for new high-end golf product, and we are very happy that we have elevated the golf experience to match our resort transformation.”

ARCHITECT RAY HEARN has dome the master plan for the newest Michigan golf design.

HOLLAND MICHIGAN ARCHITECT RAY HEARN, has done the master plan for St. Johns Resort.

Hearn’s creation of “The Cardinal” is an 18 hole course-that sits along with a new seven hole par-3 course. The par-3 course will have template greens, and sit to the side of a two-acre putting green/course.

Cardinal spreads out over 200 acres and opens for play in 2024. But to make room for the new Cardinal Course, the entire former 27 hole design was removed. So what has remained are groups of 100 year old trees, to shape and frame the holes.

“It has been a thrill to be able to work on this project for St. John’s resort and the Pulte Family Charity Foundation,” said Hearn. “The land with it’s natural glacier forms and beautiful hundred year-old trees gave us a great foundation to work with. So we were able to save many of the old mature trees and create a routing, that kept them in play around fairways and greens. So this is something that is a bit unique in todays golf architecture, that focuses on tree removal.”

WILLOW HILL LIGHTS-THROUGH JAN. 6TH-Willow Hill Golf Dome-New hours through Jan. 5th 8 Am to 8 Pm. Closed on New Years Day 8-4 New Years Eve. So see more on the WillowHilldome.com and WillowHillLights.com 1350 Willow Rd. Northbrook.

HEARN ADDED,” This project has allowed me to draw on my inspiration from previous Donald Ross and Tom Bendelow projects. So our goal was to create a fun golf experience for players of all skill levels and I feel we have done just that.”

The Par-3 third hole at St. Johns-redesign by Ray Hearn.

So what Hearn did, was to create a five-tee set, that creates a strong variety of options from different yardages.

But the renovation work at St. Johns has not been just on the golf courses.

The resort rooms and hotel have been upgraded in many areas.

So while the resort has been a great wedding destination in the past, the upgrades to the grand ballroom and wedding pavilion. Will make St. Johns an even more popular place for weddings and special events going forward. So for more information see StJohnsresort.com.

THE SHACK IS OPEN-come enjoy simulator golf at it’s best. 1717 Chestnut Street in Glenview. Owner Nick Larkin is expanding the Shack next month. (847)-904-2905.

YEAR END WRAP UP’S from Golfers on Golf all weekend long. So keep clicked in.

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