ERIC-SCOTT AND MATT comprise the Mistwood Golf Dome club fitting team (L). Oliva (R) is taking orders in the shell-bar in the in dome. So come see what else is new at the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. So visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome today, and book a bay. Where you can play Toptracer Golf (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/LinkedIn/Instagram.

Susan Hess stands in her Golftini booth at the recent PGA Merchandise show in Orlando. Yes Golftini for men has arrived.

GOLFTINI WEAR FOR WOMEN

Because that’s what it was for many years. But then-change has happened.

So for Golftini Wear founder-owner and lead designer for Golftini Wear Susan Hess, there became a time she needed to grow her line of apparel.

Hess has her own rendition of the old TV show called, “My Three Sons”. So when the three boys kept saying, MOM when are you adding Golftini for Men, she finally gave in to her sons ideas, of what’s next for Golftini.

Susan Hess in Golftini White with a Golftini Pink Sweater.

“Golftini For Men.”

SO YES-Golftini for men has arrived, not in a big blast. But it’s here, so guys can you wear pink.

Not a ton of pink, but at least a little pink anyway. That’s for starters, and that’s coming in May of 2024. So the wait is almost over.

The Pink color, is a way to show support for Breast-cancer awareness. Hess originally was thinking 2025 for the men’s line, but moved things up in order to get men in the fight against cancer, and raise more money sooner.

Hess, armed with idea’s from trips to warmer climates like Arizona and Down-Under in Australia, got to work on the what the look for men should be in the Golftini line. As usual, Hess hit the new pitch right out of the park.

IT IS TIME to start getting your game ready for the 2024 outdoor season. So it’s time to get over to the Schaumburg Golf Club 401. N. Roselle Road and hit the simulators. Facility improvements have wrapped up, so Chandlers chophouse, the SGC pro shop and the three simulators are now all open. Book your time at (847)-885-9000 and visit Schaumburggolf.com.

But that shouldn’t be any surprise, because it’s what Hess has been doing for almost 20 years, when she first got into the business.

Frustrated at what the options were for her, when she headed out to the golf course.

Hess simply took matters into her own hands. Women golfers have been happy and styling ever since.

Since her first PGA Merchandise Show, Hess and Golftini have continued to grow.

So has the Golftini booth at the show, it’s not just 10×10 anymore. It takes the full Golftini to handle all that needs to be done during show week.

  Chicago’s largest dome over 150 yards long-The Willow Hill Dome at 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook, is open for golf from Monday-Friday from 8a to 3p. Golf lessons for individuals and groups by Bob and Kim Dickman. So to learn more-WillowHillDome.com

BUT IF YOU LIKE MORE than just golf, Golftini is still for you. Because if you are part of the new Pickle Ball Craze-you can now order a Martini Pickle Ball-Golftini logoed Pickle Ball Paddle.

  THE TINI GLASS returned for the 2024 PGA Show-So did the new lines of Golftini.

CLICK HERE TO HEAR the full interview with Susan Hess-Owner, founder and lead designer of Golftini Wear-based in Chicago.

When you visit the Golftiniwear.com website, you will find out how munch the product line has grown in recent years. Skorts and tops, now have slacks, dresses, vests, pants, polo’s, hats, caps, Golftini golf balls with logo. Belts, pullovers, quarter zips and poncho’s.

Now there are Golftini wear items built for boy’s and men. So guys are you up for the challenge of wearing pink. plenty of pink or just a little pink. Regardless the challenge is down, guys get your Valentine some Golftini. Gals get your Valentine Guy a little Golftini too.

Golftiniwear.com or call (908)-654-0252 or (800)-930-4377 and shop@golftiniwear.com.

  THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Avenue in Glenview is in the final stages of expanding it’s location to have a new putting green. But then there is the four new simulator bays. Owner Nick Larkin says the best is yet to come. So plan your next group event or drop in to hit balls and grab a bite to eat. TheShackGolfClub.com or call the Shack at (847)-904-2905. The Shack Golf Club where golf season just got longer.

The Gog Blog by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect on LinkedIn-Facebook or Instagram. At Tot Hill Farm inn Asheboro NC.

I’M HOME after 26 days on the road.

This trip seemed to be one of the longest I have endured, from heading down and back to the PGA Merchandise Show.

When the cold weather strikes and it does down south in the winter months, it can cause it’s share of issues.

So do Chiggers, kind of like No-See’ems but more like Fire Ants. They do chew up your feet, and they got mine. So there have been too many days of big sized band-aids, and now after taking other pills and lotions, it’s Chigger Cream. Best found in the pharmacy at Walmart, because Walgreens does not sell the product-trust me. You toss in a few car issues a broken suitcase, 14 degree photo shoots in Pinehurst and it adds up.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB SIMULATORS are now open once more. Facility improvements have been completed, so it’s golf time, chow time in Chandlers Chophouse next to the pro shop, that’s stocking up for the 2024 outdoor golf season. SchaumburgGolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 located at 401 N. Roselle Road.

THE REASON for the winter golf trip is to get a grip on what’s new, and what lies in the front of us in the fairway for the year ahead.

SO IN the next few weeks, I will have some additional stories on the topics discussed here. But here is some of what I learned.

The Mike Strantz designed Tot Hill Farm in Asheboro NC., should get added to all golfers bucket list. But even if you don’t get there in 2024-just get there at some point. It is really good golf-challenging, but good. My hunt for learning more about the late Strantz, took me to Bulls Bay, a private club near Charleston SC. Bulls Bay is pretty good, in fact it just keeps getting as the round goes forward. The club’s membership is full, and there is a six-year waiting list to get in. Because the list is so long, the club is not currently adding anyone to the waiting list. As for Strantz courses you can play, if your in South Carolina, North Carolina or Virginia, you have six great options. Play as many of them as you can.

The Mistwood Golf club fitting team-L-R Eric Russell, Scott Hogan and Matt Carter. See them in the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600

PINEHURST!

The Home of American Golf-or as some say The Cradle of American Golf, continues to get even better.

Tom Doak’s Course #10 is opening April 3rd, you do want to add this one to your hit list. But I predict Course #11 by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw on the site of the old Pit Golf course, will open by late 2025 or early 2026.

Pinehurst just keep finding ways to improve every year. Because at this point, nobody would blame the Dedman family or resort president Tom Pashley if they wanted to take a break from all the projects they have taken on in recent years. But they just keep pushing forward. IF only more golf properties would have the drive that Pinehurst does, to keep getting better.

I will have more on the projects Pinehurst is doing shortly, but whether it’s in the halls of the historic landmark the Carolina Hotel, or the main clubhouse. Pinehurst workers will keep working hard to make sure everything is just perfect by the time the U.S. Open arrives in June.

THE USGA and the WG-HOF are getting their buildings in order across the parking lot from the main Pinehurst clubhouse. Most of both buildings should be operational by June. Patrons at the open will have some interesting tours to take in the USGA museum and the World Golf Hall of Fame. The new USGA-Pinehurst museum will house present history, and what happens going forward. As the USGA New Jersey museum will be home to the past history, of USGA golf.

The Willow Hill Golf Dome 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook-Chicago’s largest dome is open 8a to 3p Monday through Friday for golf. See WillowHilldome.com for more information and the Dickman-Golf lessons and clinics.

NEW COURSES ARE COMING.

Because for years architects only had renovation projects to do. But now new courses are making a comeback, as land becomes available and people with deep pockets are building their own courses.

Plus those people are building clubs to fit their mission or vision in life, which includes giving back to golf.

I did visit Old Barnwell in South Carolina, but sadly there was not time to play OB or see The Tree Farm which is about 30 minutes away. What I did see is Nick Schreiber’s vision of a club (Old Barnwell) that expects members to do more than just show up, golf and enjoy beverages. Because Old Barnwell’s members will need to be active in the goals of the club set by Schreiber. They include junior golf, women’s golf and projects within the sport. Currently Old Barnwell is 18 holes, but it’s far from done. Here’s to Schreiber vision and I hope it and Old Barnwell keeps expanding.

THE NEW COURSES at Cabot Citrus Farms, Pinehurst and Streamsong are good ones. While Cabot has 38 open holes now, there will be 18 more before too long, stay tuned. But the Karoo course and the Par-3 golf course (Wedge) under the lights is really fun. There are other new projects in Florida that have just opened, or are under construction. This includes one course with two time Western Open Champion Nick Price on the design team. I’m looking forward to seeing more of them next year. The Chain at Streamsong currently has only 13 holes open, but there are more Chain holes coming soon, and they look pretty darn good. Coore and Crenshaw with another winner.

FROM THE PGA SHOW and I will have more stories on new products found at the show before long. But just to preview, Chicago based Golftini has expanded from just women’s wear, to some men’s wear. Owner Susan Hess has outdone herself again on the design side, with a push from her three-sons.

There is always a food angle-or energy beverage, from the show and that was present again this year. A new pretzel, and new good tasting sports energy drink that I did find and try. I have been a fan of the First-Tee energy bar sold at courses. But now the same folks have brought a First-Tee jerky to their product line. I did a taste-test and I would say-Yum. Get some where you can.

THE MAJOR PLAYERS in Equipment have released new lines, so if your in the market for new clubs-anything from drivers to putters. Now is the time to be ready for the year ahead-start hitting demo days and test clubs at your favorite golf facilities. It’s always a good time for a club fitting.

PUTTERS-the putter industry is really heating up. Because I can’t remember a time there was so many good options to choose from, if your in the market for a new putter.

Callaway’s new AI line, Titleist Cameron putters, Oak Brook IL. based Bettinardi putters, the new DF3 putters from LAB Golf, the Wingman series by Tour Edge. Plus gaining a following in the putter market is the Makefield putter line based in Philadelphia. Two of the last three winners of the PGA National Club professional championship, have used Makefield putters. So getting the right putter in your bag will now require some research and testing, so get to it and make more putts.

MYRTLE BEACH has been a good golf destination for a long time. But now it’s even getting better with recent renovations. Pawley’s Plantation is good, but Pine Lake Golf and Country Club is a winner. Straight forward golf from this 1927 course, that’s the home and birthplace of Sports illustrated Magazine. The clubhouse is a real classic, a must on anyone’s M-B hit list.

AS I REPORTED YESTERDAY-Innisbrook in Palm Harbor Florida continues to be a property that is in transformation. Projects including Packard’s Steakhouse and the Copperhead Clubhouse is part of the project-but I can’t wait for more news on the announcement of the par-3 course. Chris Walling takes over for retiring Mike Williams as the man in charge, he seems ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work.

SO WHILE there might not be as many professional tournaments or top amateur events in the Chicago area to see this summer, there are plenty of new things in the golf world to keep golfers busy-all through 2024. Now it’s time get ready for our season to begin, and then go play. Because no matter where that might be-there has never been a better time to travel to old or new golf destinations, or head down the street to your local club. RS.

   ARNIE USED TO LOVE HITTING THE PUTTING GREEN-You should too at The Shack Indoor Golf Club in Glenview. Four new simulators are getting ready to open soon. So book your hitting bay and enjoy golf fun at The Shack. 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.

Christopher Walling is the VP-Operations and Managing Director of Innisbrook.

THE 2024 VALSPAR CHAMPIONSHIP is coming soon. But Innisbrook will be ready.

So with other Florida golf properties adding courses, opening new courses and creating new buzz, Innisbrook Resort is not being left behind. They are getting ready for Valspar week on the PGA Tour by creating a buzz of their own.

Because the resort that anchors the end of the PGA Tour’s “Florida Swing”, is swinging away at getting bigger and better. There is no back-seat setting in at Tarpon Springs.

Christopher Walling is the new Vice President of Operations & Managing Director of Innisbrook Resort. Walling knows he has “big shoes” to fill replacing retiring Executive Director Mike Williams, but is ready for the challenge.

THE TIME IS NOW to hit the simulators at the Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 North Roselle Road in Schaumburg. Just minutes from Woodfield Mall. The clubhouse improvements are done and the golf is back. Chandlers Chophouse is open as well. So book a bay at Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-855-9000. The clubhouse is stocking up for the season ahead, so be ready to fill-up your golf bag and the season ahead. But you can play the SGC now live, or other Top 100 Courses.

But Walling is just rolling up his sleeves as the projects begin.

Because before the PGA Tour arrives in March, plenty of resort guests will come to stay and play at the resort.

Starting on the food and beverage side the resort’s longtime famed Packard’s Steakhouse, still sits at a temporary location on the resort property.

But moving forward at good speed is the renovation of Packard’s. Originally after closing early last summer, the hope was for Packard’s to reopen in it’s old location next to the Copperhead pro shop.

But that has not happened yet, with the opening date planned for early next month. But Packard’s is expected to host special events during Valspar week.

  PACKARD’S STEAKHOUSE named after the great course designer Larry Packard. Packard who created all four of the golf courses at Innisbrook, is under full renovation at the resort. But will reopen shortly. Yes-of course Packard’s red tartan American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) jacket will have a place in the new restaurant.

  THE WORK CONTINUES in the newly rebuilt and expanded Copperhead Pro Shop (L) expected to reopen in early March. (R) The resorts famed Stirling Ballroom has been refinished with new carpeting, painting, chandeliers and more. It is now open for hosting large meetings and other special events.

Toll Brothers construction teams are clearing land that was formerly nine holes of the resorts North Course.

The north end of the resort is seeing some changes as well.

Currently Innisbrook is only a 63-hole golf property, after being 72-holes for many years.

Toll Brothers is clearing 9-holes of the North Course, and that land will be used for a new housing development.

But for golfers that are looking for what’s new on the golf side of things. Innisbrook is still moving forward on having a par-3 golf course. When that happens-the golf hole count will return to 72, OR maybe even a few more. So stay tuned for announcements regarding the building of the resorts newest course, and who will design the course.

  (L) NORTH SHORE GOLFERS from 8a to 3p Monday to Friday the Willow Hill Golf Dome plays home to the biggest indoor golf range in the Chicago area, at over 150 yards long. So visit WillowHillDome.com for more information, on hours, golf lessons and more special events. (R) Welcome to the Valspar Championship coming up next month at Innisbrook. See a strong field of PGA Tour professionals try and tame the Copperhead Golf Course, and conquer the closing holes known as “The Snake-Pit.”

Hospitality tent set up is well underway on Copperhead for the Valspar Championship.

But while all the current upgrades are going on Innisbrook, other changes from recent years are taking hold.

Those changes have been being enjoyed by resort guests, home owners and other visitors to the property.

Because over the last several years, room improvements have taken place across the entire resort. Rooms have been updated and modernized to current standards and expectations of all who stay on property. Golf membership plans have been added and upgraded.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Innisbrook’s new VP of Operations and Managing Director Chris Walling-on everything Innisbrook.

SO IF YOUR LOOKING for a fun place to spring break, will relaxing and enjoying some golf. Visit InnisbrookgolfResort.com or call (888)-794-8627. Innisbrook Resort is part of the Salamander Group Collection, of destination properties and luxury hotels.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB at 401 North Roselle Road has reopened it’s simulators for the winter golf season, after finishing clubhouse improvements. So now you can play the winter edition of SGC or over 100 other top venues. So to book a simulator bay-the call the pro shop at (847)-885-9000 or visit Schaumburggolf.com. Chandlers Chophouse has reopened and the pro shop is stocking up. Open 9-8 daily.

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.

Pinehurst Resort Director of Golf Matt Barksdale stands at the hole location of Payne’s Putt on the 18th green Pinehurst No.2 as the US Open returns in June.

MATT BARKSDALE’S last 8 years at Pinehurst have not been like 2024 will be.

The Director of Golf for the Home of American Golf, or the Home to the Cradle of American Golf, spends plenty of time these days doing his best that Pinehurst’s Golf operation is ready for just about anything.

So as 2024 begins, the countdown is on to a busy year ahead. Because in less than 60 days the new Pinehurst #10 course by architect Tom Doak and lead associate Angela Moser opens for public play. Then just over 60 days later, the U.S. Open comes back to town for the first time in 10 years. But it also marks the 25th anniversary of Payne Stewart’s famous open winning putt on the 18th green of Pinehurst No.2. Sadly it would be Stewarts last win before being killed in a tragic plane crash that October.

  NORTH SHORE GOLFERS have two great winter golf options. In the simulators at The Shack in door golf club 1717 Chestnut Avenue in Glenview (847)-904-2905. Book a bay today-The new putting green is open at TheShackgolfclub.com. WILLOW HILL GOLF DOME at 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook is the largest dome in the Chicago area, at over 150 yards long. So see the ball fly longer indoors-WillowhillDome.com 8a-3p daily.

Matt Barksdale gets a moment to relax in his busy office inside the famed main clubhouse of Pinehurst.

While the new Pinehurst #10 and the U.S. Open will earn much of the focus this year. Barksdale and his team still have eight other 18 holes courses, and the 9-hole par-3 Cradle course to keep their eyes on.

As one might guess, the golf operation is in fifth straight year of rolling along, since the golf-boom restarted during the pandemic months of 2020. The resort has been nothing but busy ever since.

2024 will be no different. Barksdale is anxious to hear what the golfer will have to say about Course 10 when it opens. Barksdale adds it’s been great having Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw on property, as they work on getting Course No.2 ready for the U.S. Open.

Because the B&B team has been out walking the land formerly known as “The Pit” course. Where Course 10 is, and Course 11 will be. As golfers flock to play the new Course 10. Some of them might get lucky to run into Bill and Ben, who will be at the same location building yet another course for the historic Pinehurst Resort.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interview with Pinehurst Resort’s Director of Golf Matt Barksdale.

  (L) the Pinehurst Pin Flag on Course #2. (R) Hole-10 on Course 10 is a 600 yard plus par-5 hole.

The NEW-bar in the Shell at the Mistwood Golf Dome is being enjoyed by golfers all winter long. Mistwood Golf Club and Mistwood Golf Dome ranges have been awarded another GRAA Top 50 award.

Barksdale has shed some light on what patrons attending the U.S. Open will find this June.

Because the hospitality on the course will be different than found at past U.S. Opens held on Pinehurst No.2.

Hospitality tents will be found in different area’s course, that did not have them before.

But during the U.S. Open golf will continue around the resort, at courses that don’t rub shoulders with course No.2. So Barksdale and his team will have Courses 6,7,8,9 and 10 operating for members and corporate guests, still wanting to play golf.

But as the U.S. Open approaches the good news for Barksdale, is that the USGA will do more of the heavy lifting on Course No.2. So with the USGA now with it’s own campus across the parking lot from the main Pinehurst Clubhouse. Barksdale says it’s not uncommon to see USGA staff wondering the halls of the clubhouse, or on the putting green, the range, or Cradle holes that are right outside the front door.

But while things will be hectic the next 150 days or so, Barksdale will enjoy the ride. Because if you love golf, there aren’t any other places better to be than Pinehurst in 2024. To visit Pinehurst or play the new Course 10-See Pinehurst.com. But for more information on the 2024 U.S. Open, and or tickets to attend the U.S. Open championship. Visit USGA.org.

  THE SHACK-where Arnie is looking  down and around. So the new putting green is open, the new simulators are coming soon. The Shack is where the golf season just got longer. Book a bay today for a special event, or on the day of a big sporting event. THE SHACK is at 1717 Chestnut Ave. in Glenview. Theshackgolfclub.com or (847)-904-2905.

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

IT’S BEEN NEARLY 3 weeks since I hit the road for the annual winter golf trip.

So the 2024 PGA Merchandise Show is in the books already. Because heading into the show it seems like such a big week, and it is.

IT ALWAYS seems like a big long week with too much to do, and not enough time to do it. Because that’s always what it turns into, and so quickly it’s over and it’s time to return to your club or your course, and begin the year ahead. But armed with new products, to sell your members or customers. In less than 60 days most courses in the Chicago area will open for 2024, and the golfers return.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB 401 North Roselle Road has it’s three simulators open again. the pro shop is filling up with everything you need for the 2024 golf season. Play the indoor version of the Schaumburg Golf Club, by booking a bay today at (847)-885-9000 or Schaumburggolf.com.

GOLF in 2024 has an interesting season ahead.

Because it starts at the professional level. Will there be a major tour event in Chicago.

BMW have driven off to Colorado, LIV can’t figure out whether or not they want to be at Rich Harvest Farms this year in Sugar Grove.

Which is sad, because it would be great to have Jon Rahm back at RHF, some 9 years after he first played the course as part of the International Team during the 2015 Arnold Palmer Cup.

The amateur level will see the Western Amateur head off to Ohio, at the Moraine Country Club. Which is a great course, and looks stellar since architect Keith Foster got his hands on it a few years back.

LOOKING BIG is the Willow Hill Golf Dome at 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. Chicago’s largest and longest dome at over 150 yards. Golf hours are 8a to 3p daily. Book a time at WillowHillDome.com

GOLF COURSES are reopening or are closing for improvements.

Chicago’s flagship golf club Medinah will celebrate it’s centennial year. But then somewhere in late June, the championship course #3 reopens from renovation.

Then in Evanston later in summer Canal Shores will reopen with a new look. So take a walk around the course and enjoy a fun old, but new golf course. Cantigny Golf in Wheaton will shut down 9 holes (Hillside) as the four year upgrade project begins. So stay tuned as the year moves forward, as I update courses that are opening or closing down for improvements.

kudo’s to Andy Mickelson and the golf team at Mistwood for winning yet another Golf Range Association of America (GRAA) Top 50 Range in America. Well deserved Mistwood, keep up the good work. Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook (630)-739-7600 eat at McWethy’s Sports Bar and hit some golf balls. Lesson’s, Club Fittings, Toptracer and more. Mistwoodgolfdome.com.

STILL TO COME..

Are more stories right here of the products I found at the PGA Show.

Clubs-golf balls-putters, apparel, golf gloves and snacks, of course the latest in golf energy drinks.

Because every year there is a new drink, that claims to be better than everything we had in the past.

But then a year later that product is gone, not at the show and not found anywhere.

SINCE LEAVING THE SHOW-I have explored some golf properties. Which includes Streamsong’s new Chain Course, by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. 13 holes open, with a few more to go.

BULLS BAY another adventure into my learn more about Mike Strantz, and 9 courses he created before sadly passing of cancer in 2005.

NOW IN MYRTLE BEACH where weather is okay but not great, I saw the recently renovated Pawley’s Plantation Golf & Country Club a Jack Nicklaus design.

NEXT STOP Pinehurst- followed by my two cancelled stops on the way down. Tot Hill Farm and the Asheville Municipal Golf Course. Then it’s time to take the golf cart and head for home. It’s been a tough trip this year. The home clubhouse even in 50 degree weather will look good. RS

  THE SHACK INDOOR GOLF CLUB at 1717 Chestnut Avenue in Glenview is expanding and has already added a new putting green. But better still are four new simulators that will have improved seating. Book your group event today because sports days are now filling up quickly. Call the Shack at (847)-904-2905 or now visit 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 Pawley’s Plantation Clubhouse.

PAWLEY’S PLANTATION IS OPEN

Pawley’s Plantation an original Jack Nicklaus design from 1998, has now reopened for play.

So should you be visiting the Myrtle Beach or Pawley’s Island area, put this club on your hit list.

The club closed May 22nd of 2023 for both clubhouse and course renovation work. But was able to reopen in late October of last year. The project helped reopen the course for better play, after 25 years of growth had taken away corridors originally designed by Nicklaus for challenging play.

The challenging par-3 13th hole plays like an island green, and even 115 yard shots are testing of one’s game when a strong wind blows.

The Nicklaus signature design course has been a favorite of golfers visiting the Low-Country and Grand Strand area for years.

Nicklaus design associate Troy Vincent’s work will help keep it that way.

But one feature that will have golfers trying to figure out their next play on some holes, will be large tree’s that still remain in the fairways. Because some tree’s are protected and can not be cut down without facing penalty by the law. No this does not mean the USGA rules of the game.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has reopened it’s three simulators for use-following clubhouse improvements. So book a simulator today and play the indoor version of the Schaumburg Golf Club or over 100 other Top golf courses. Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-882-9000. Chandlers chophouse has reopened. Plus and the pro shop is quickly filling up with everything needed for the outdoor season ahead.

So one of the keys to this renovation was to restore green sizes to their original sizes.

As a result over 40,000 square feet of green space was reclaimed, and the number of locations to pin the the holes on any given day has increased.

But the bunkers were also a part of what needed to be done. So Vincent changed the bunker styles, from long running lengthy patterns to tighter traps.

The bunker changes were made to traps that are located on ten different holes around the golf course.

Six of the holes around Pawley’s Plantation do play around the waterways that center near the back nine of the golf course.

  STRATEGIC TREE LOCATIONS will still play a role in shot selection on the course at Pawley’s Plantation.

Kent knebelkamp has created the largest indoor golf dome in the Chicago area with Willow Hill at 1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. Golf daily from 8a to 3p see WillowHillDome.com for more details.

The removed brush and trees, have provided more area for play and more fairway space.

Vincent says,” the course will have more space for golfers. But the teeth of the golf course will still be there for better players.”

So while the golf course will have a share of improvements. The clubhouse has not been forgotten during the restoration plan.

Pawley’s Pub has been enlarged with new options on the menu for hungry golfers to pick from. So if it’s been a few years since your last visit to Pawley’s Plantation, or you have never played the course. It’s time check out Pawley’s Plantation one of the top courses in the Myrtle Beach area.

So for more information see PawleysPlantation.com or call (843)-237-6000. There is also lodging options to choose from.

  THE WILLOW HILL GOLF DOME is now open for golf daily from 8a to 3p. So come hit balls in the largest dome (150+ yards) in the Chicago area. Bob and Kim Dickman are doing lessons and clinics this winter. So call the dome or visit WillowHillDome.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.

  SO WHY NOT-have Arnie come and watch you putt at The Shack Golf Club 1717 West Chestnut Avenue in Glenview. The new putting green is open, more simulators will follow soon. So visit TheShackGolfClub.com or call The shack at (847)-904-2905.

WRITING FROM BULLS BAY GOLF CLUB-A Mike Strantz design in Awendaw SC.

CHAIN 10-where the flag was flapping.

THE CHAIN has been unlocked for play.

So it’s now open, or most of it anyway.

Northbrook IL. based Kempersports Management has another winner at it’s Streamsong Resort, in Central Florida (A little south of Lakeland).

Red, Blue, then Black-now it’s a foursome, with the new “Short Course” The Chain. Fleetwood Mac should be singing about the course, and maybe they already did. But if your play well-this Chain can be broken.

The closing hole #13-for now anyway.

So for now-the Chain is only 13 holes. That is because this Bill Coore-Ben Crenshaw creation, the second on the property (Red Course the first) is not fully opened.

There are a few holes in the middle of the linksy style track, that are done but still growing in.

But they do appear they are not very far away from opening, even better is that they look like good holes, very good holes. So when The Chain fully unlocks, there will be 18 holes, if not 17 or 19. See the thing is with Crenshaw and Coore, they are known for finding places on a routing, that can squeeze in one more hole.

Building improvements at the Schaumburg Golf Club are done. The three simulators are open. Book a simulator bay today at (847)-885-9000. the pro shop and Chandlers are open as well. SchaumburgGolf.com.

So in case you wondering. The Chain is not a replay of either the Preserve at Bandon Dunes, or the SandBox at Sand Valley.

Because the style and sand land-look have a strong sense of “scruffy” to it.

IN FACT the white sand and it’s sweeping style around the hills of Streamsong, almost loo more like it’s Streamsong neighbor. Gil Hanse’s Black Course.

But while there is no official par for the course at this time, it plays to a yardage of 1130 from the front tee’s. With a bolder 2017 yards from the Back tee’s. So of the 13 holes, 12 are par 3’s with one hole playing as a par four (293 yards).

The Shack indoor golf club is open, and will be getting bigger in the short future. The new putting green is open, and four more new simulators are coming soon. so book a bay by calling (847)-904-2905 or go to The Shackgolfclub.com. Over 100 courses to play, top sports dates for group events are selling out quickly.

Current hole 8 is  the only par-4 hole in play now. But it won’t be the only par-4, once the course fully opens.

Coore and Crenshaw did such a great job designing the current batch of par-3’s.

That these holes could be interchanged with par-3 holes on the other Streamsong Courses and fit right into play.

One thing that is nice for guests that just want to slip out for a few holes, on arrival or departure day is that the Chain located right in front of the Lodge.

So you can walk there right from the front door in a few minutes. The Chain is “exactly” what it is supposed to be, a fun course and timely course for golfers to play. All age and skill level groups will enjoy The Chain. So go play, and try to “unlock” or “break” The Chain.

So learn more at Streamsongresort.com. More pictures at Rory Spears Facebook and other social media platforms.

  ALL IN THE SHELL-Toptracer golf and a new bar. So what more can you ask for. All winter long the perks just get better at the Mistwood Golf Dome. Located on RT. 53 in Bolingbrook the Mistwood Golf offers, lessons, club fittings and more. Plus the best “dome food” you will find in the area. Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600.

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

The 2024 Cleveland Halo XL Woods.

CLEVELAND HALO XL WOODS

Because it’s time to end the bad long fairway shot. But you can hit the green and be looking at Birdie.

Cleveland Golf partnered with Arccos Data, and learned the most feared shot for some golfers, is the long fairway shot into the green. So Cleveland is putting and end to that.

Because if your handicap is between 10-25, you are relying on your long game 37% of the time, on Par-4 approach shots. So how does one end the Mis-hit long second shots.

NOW IT’S TIME to head inside at the Schaumburg Golf Club at 401 N. Roselle Road. All three simulators now open, and so is Chandlers Chophouse on the main level. So call (847)-885-9000.

Cleveland’s Xl Halo Woods. Fairway woods or Hybrid Woods. But there is also a Hy-Wood club, which fills the yardage gap between fairway woods.

Pricing is set at HALO XL Fairway $249.99. The HALO XL Hy-Wood $239.99. HALO XL Hybrid $229.99. The Launch date is January 19th of 2024.

CLEVELAND GOLF PARTNER XXIO announces Pittsburgh Sportsnet reporter, and Pittsburgh Penguin’s sideline reporter Hailey Hunter a college golfer, will join XXIO as a brand ambassador.

YOU CAN LEARN MORE at Clevelandgolf.com or XXIO.com or HALOXL.com.

  OLIVA SAYS WELCOME TO THE DOME BAR-Right in the center of the Shell. So while the winter season continues, come out to the Mistwood Golf Dome located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. Toptracer Golf, golf lessons, club fittings. While you are there stop in and enjoy food & drinks at McWethy’s Sports Bar. Mistwoodgolfdome.com (630)-739-7600.

RORY SPEARS on the Karoo Course at Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville Florida, now open for preview play. Photo by John Billiter. Cabotcitrusfarms.com.

SHOWTIME…

ONE OF THE BIG WEEKS for the PGA of America, is this weeks PGA Merchandise Show.

IT IS A MAJOR in the world of golf. SO IF YOUR NOT HERE, you are missing out. Taking a step back, or being left behind in the business.

Because for many companies, that have spent months or even years, working and developing new lines or products. This becomes their stage to show you what they got, and what you could have in your bag or pro shop.

The Schaumburg Golf Club simulators are open are you ready to tee it up. 401 North Roselle (847)-885-9000. Schaumburggolf.com.

BUT ONE OF the main things are the networking that comes from this show. The chance to meet all the right people who work in various forms of the golf industry, this is the best chance to find them.

The crazy thing is. The merchandise show can play like a really fast round of golf.

No slow play here, because so much is happening so quickly, there is normally not enough time to see everything you want so to see. Many reunion conversations are on walk ways between the booths, as people run into people they know. New golf industry relationships are formed here, that last for years or a lifetime.

THE NEW PUTTING GREEN is open at the Shack. The new simulators aren’t far behind. Thegolfshack.com or call and book a bay at (847)-904-2905.

DEMO DAY TODAY-starts it’s all off at the Orange County National golf range.

So here is your chance to hit the clubs, of your choice.

Do some putting outside on the big mats. But there is more. Some golf groups have booths there. Most years demo day is fun in the sun and a chance to hit some new clubs.

Because you can do plenty at demo day, it’s hard to believe there are more options the next two days in the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).

The Willow Hill Dome-1350 Willow Road in Northbrook. Willowhilldome.com Golf hours in Chicago’s largest dome are 8a to 3 p daily. Lessons available with Bob and Kim Dickman.

DEMO DAY and the next three days are more than just hitting balls.

There are fashions plenty of fashions, by new and old to check out. So one of the things I’m anxious to see to the new version of Chicago based Golftini for Men.

Because Golftini founder and creator Susan Hess is one of the most creative people I’ve seen in the golf design world.

Hess has nailed it on the women’s fashion side, now let’s see how she did with men’s wear. But I do suspect one or more of here three-son’s might be involved here.

BUT SOME OF THE things that are worth watching, is show attendance. So will it go up again this year, as it bounces back from the pandemic. Then it’s which companies are here, and which ones are not. Those that are not here, do get left being on the industry.

So build your network, build your membership or customer base. Sherry Major and the tea, do a great job of putting the show together, lets go enjoy. Because it’s showtime. RS.

  IT’S ALL NEW in the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook. The new bar in the shell, and the new simulators in the old OTB area. So come out and hit some balls, take a Toptracer Challenge get fitted for clubs or enjoy the food in McWethys Sports Bar. The best wings in town-So visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call the dome at (630)-739-7600.

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

the Villa’s at Cabot Citrus Farms are going up, but are still under construction.

NO MORE WORLDWOODS…

But it is a place that already is a world of fun, and has plenty of potential to be even better.

So by late May or early June there will be golf on all of the 50+ holes of Cabot Citrus Farms.

Someday there could be golf on yet another 18 to 36 holes. Because the preview day revealed just that there is more land. So time will tell what Ben Cowan Dewar chooses to do with that option.

Ben Cowan Dewar-speaking at Cabot Citrus Farms media preview day. Photo by Rory Spears.

But for now-what was once WorldWoods is now Cabot Citrus Farms. So if you liked WorldWoods, you will love CCF.

What was done, was a total clean up of the property, and while the new views of sand seem to be everywhere, so the sand adds a sparkle and gleam to the property that hasn’t existed for some time.

The golf is still blending in with the new mix, but give it time, because Cabot Citrus Farms will mature into a solid golf destination. But unlike what was the previous property, there will be some places to stay on site. The new Cabot Citrus villas will allow stays on property. But with porches that will leave guests with the feeling that top level golf is part of their front or back yard.

SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB 401 North Roselle Road, the three simulators are open again. So book your bay today, while you are there, Chandlers Chophouse is open, so is the pro shop that is stocking up for all of 2024. Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000.

So how did Cabot Citrus Farms become the first American based golf project for Cowan-Dewar.

Well I won’t spoil the surprise, I will let him tell you in the interview below.

The other question is, how did the former Pine Barrens Course, get a new name of the Karoo Course. Both Cowan-Dewar and architect Kyle Franz have more to say on that topic.

The former Rolling Oaks Course, is lagging behind because of the change of architects. But as soon as Franz teamed up with Mike Nuzzo, already on property to do the Squeeze and the Par-3 wedge, the course named “The Roost”  got rolling once again.

Par three holes on the Karoo’s front nine, have plenty going on. Even some water in one case.

Some architects will tell you that a project has moving parts. Cabot Citrus Farms is one of those projects.

With addition of more golf, the real Estate side of the property, and other projects that will allow guests other options besides golf. Cabot Citrus Farms will continue to evolve as the years roll past.

While the focus is currently the courses that have been built. What remains very interesting, is what the property’s full potential really is. There is more land, enough to build another 36 holes of regulation golf. So if golfers make a stampede to the first tee of CCF, and the demand exceeds what the current property can offer. It would be safe to say that more golf will get built before too long.

CLICK HERE to hear the full interviews back-to-back with Ben Cowan-Dewar and architect Kyle Franz.

  THE 9TH HOLE in the Karoo Course with CCF Real Estate not far behind (L). The new putting green (R) is open at the Shack Indoor Golf Club 1717 Chestnut Avenue, call today for a simulator bay at (847)-904-2905 and visit TheShackgolfclub.com. The top sporting event dates, for group events are filling fast, so plan ahead and book it today.

Golf in the next few months will be preview play. But you can visit the Cabot Citrus Farms website and request tee times. Cabot Citrus Farms has brought an exciting new look to what once was something else.

Golfers will really enjoy the new look. All 18 holes on Karoo, on the Squeeze, and under the lights on the par-3 Wedge course. Under the lights golf is a neat way to sepnd an evening. See CabotCitrusFarms.com

More photo’s at Rory Spears on Facebook and Twitter(X).