Golf Travel

Enjoy the Pocono Golf Course at the Fernwood Hotel & Resort

2008-10-26T08:14:00.001-04:00

Announcing from now until the end of the golf season, Fernwood Hotel & Resort is providing the Fernwood Fall Golf Package 2008. Now is the time to enjoy the 18-hole, par 71 Pocono golf course - all against the serene fall backdrop. Hotel guests can take advantage of the "Stay & Play" package throughout this golf season.

Get in touch with nature's beauty this fall and winter. Play at the perfect destination golf course in the Pocono Mountains, where every hole on the gently rolling fairways is unique. In this local Pocono golf course, certified PGA Professional instruction is available with a fully stocked golf shop and club rentals.

The fall "Stay & Play" Package includes hotel accommodations plus two rounds of golf per night, with prices starting from just $124 midweek. Stay in one of the suites, or the villas, and enjoy this Pocono golf course in true luxury.

In addition to golf, Fernwood Hotel & Resort is packed with enjoyable fall activities, including live entertainment, great food in the four themed restaurants, and shopping in The Crossings Premium Outlets. Enjoy what nature has to offer and don't forget to go hiking at Bushkill Falls. To complete your vacation, go horseback riding along the Fernwood Hotel & Resort and the Poconos.

About Fernwood Hotel & Resort

The Fernwood Hotel & Resort is located along the Delaware Water Gap in Bushkill, PA. With so much to do in the Pocono region, and its close proximity to New York and New Jersey, the Fernwood Hotel & Resort is placed within the heart of it all. For more information on rates and this Pocono golf course, visit http://www.fernwoodresort.com or call 1-888-FERNWOOD.

Camp Creek, Shark's Tooth Announce 2009 USGA, FSGA Schedule

2008-10-14T20:15:00.001-04:00

Camp Creek and Shark's Tooth Golf Clubs -- award-winning Tom Fazio and Greg Norman designs located along Northwest Florida?s stunning Gulf Coast - have been selected by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Florida State Golf Association (FSGA) to host qualifiers for the U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur in 2009.

On May 13, 2009, Camp Creek will welcome competitors to a U.S. Open local qualifier while Shark's Tooth will host a U.S. Amateur sectional qualifier on August 10-11. The courses share a history of staging USGA events: Camp Creek hosted a U.S. Open qualifier in 2007 and U.S. Amateur qualifiers in 2006 and 2008, when Drew Kittleson earned a spot in the national field en route to the final at Pinehurst Resort. Shark's Tooth was the site of U.S. Open qualifiers from 2003-06 and again in 2008.

Additionally, Shark's Tooth will host a local qualifier for the Florida Open on June 30, 2009. Conducted by the FSGA and state PGA sections, the Florida Open dates to 1942 and has produced champions including Bob Murphy, John Huston and Bart Bryant. It is open to amateurs and professionals.

"We are honored to continue our longtime partnership with the USGA and FSGA," says Will Hopkins, Camp Creek General Manager. "Camp Creek has proven that it is more than just a warm-up for the U.S. Open, it is a crash course in the skills and shots required to win one."

"Being selected to host USGA and FSGA events is a source of great pride for our club," says John Johnson, Shark's Tooth General Manager. "Shark's Tooth has earned a reputation as a superior test in all aspects of the game, and we look forward to great competition in next year's championship qualifiers."

Camp Creek and Shark's Tooth are part of the WaterColor Resort's premier golf collection, which also includes The Origins Course at WaterSound, designed by Davis Love III. Camp Creek and Shark's Tooth are private courses available to guests of the WaterColor Resort's 60-room boutique inn on the Gulf of Mexico, and its luxury vacation rental homes. The Origins Course -designed specifically for beginners and families - is open to the public and juniors 15 years old and under play free when accompanied by a paying adult. Together, the three courses form one of the only assemblies of Fazio, Norman and Love III-designed courses under one flagship.

The U.S. Open, the second-oldest USGA championship by a single day, is the jewel of USGA competitions. The event has evolved into one of the most prestigious championships played with many of the game's greatest players having captured this coveted title. The event is open to professionals and amateurs with a handicap index of 1.4 or lower. The Open is one of 13 national championships conducted annually by the USGA, 10 of which are strictly for amateurs. The 2009 edition will be contested at in the shadow of New York City at Bethpage State Park's famous Black Course, June 15-21.

The USGA's oldest championship, the U.S. Amateur was first played in 1895 at Newport Golf Club in Rhode Island. It is one of 13 national championships conducted annually by the USGA. Only non-professional golfers with a USGA Handicap Index of 2.4 or below are eligible to enter any of the U.S Amateur qualifiers. Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Okla., will host the 2009 championship, August 24-30.

Websites and Contact Information

USGA, http://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=5&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0
Camp Creek, http://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=6&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0, 850.231.7601
Shark?s Tooth, http://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=13&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0, 850.249.3015
WaterColor Resort, http://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=11&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0, 850.534.5000

About Camp Creek

Since opening in 2001, Camp Creek has been consistently cited as one of Tom Fazio's most thought-provoking, aesthetically-stunning design credits. Featuring a unique "dunescape" appearance, the course was created as a private club for members who are owners of St. Joe selected communities and resort guests of St. Joe?s WaterColor and WaterSound Beach resorts. From the back green tees, the course plays to a championship caliber yardage of 7,159 and a formidable slope rating of 152 (one of the highest in the state). Camp Creek's five-tee configuration, which also includes gold (senior) and red (women's) tees, accommodates players of all skill and experience levels. Travel + Leisure Golf recognized Camp Creek as "Florida's No. 1 Course of the New Millennium." It has also been recognized for its environmental stewardship through designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System (ACSS). Superintendent Larry Livingston was similarly distinguished as a certified Audubon Steward. Camp Creek is operated by Troon Golf, the leader in upscale golf course-management.

About Shark's Tooth

Designed by Greg Norman and voted the second best new private course by Golf Digest upon opening in 2002, Shark's Tooth Golf Club was recently purchased by The St. Joe Company to bolster its high-end, golf course holdings. The course stretches to 7,204 yards from the back tees and features five fairways that border scenic Lake Powell, two holes that play toward the water and numerous wooden cart path bridges that cross over streams and estuaries. Tucked among the oaks and pines along the shores of the historic lake, which has been designated an Outstanding Florida Waterway, Shark's Tooth is a challenging course that co-exists with its surroundings. Grass from the Greg Norman Turf Company was used on the fairways, approaches and rough. The course is a Silver Signature Sanctuary Course as accredited by the Audubon Signature Program and is operated by Troon Golf, the leader in upscale golf course-management.

About JOE

The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), a publicly held company based in Jacksonville, is one of Florida's largest real estate development companies. We are primarily engaged in real estate development and sales, with significant interests in timber. JOE's mission is to create places that inspire people and make the region an even better place to live, work and play. We're no ordinary JOE.

More information about JOE can be found at our website athttp://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=4&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0.

© 2008 The St. Joe Company. "Camp Creek," "JOE," "St. Joe," "WaterColor," "Shark's Tooth," "WaterSound" and the "Taking Flight" design are service marks of The St. Joe Company.

About Troon Golf

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Troon Golf is the world's largest golf management company, overseeing operations at more than 200 courses located in 31 states and 31 countries. Additionally, 36 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; Talking Stick Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; The Clubs at St. James Plantation, Southport, N.C.; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Cancun, Mexico; and The Grove, London, England. For more information about Troon Golf, visit http://links.mkt252.com/ctt?kn=9&m=2611150&r=MzcyMjE5NDU0NgS2&b=2&j=MTAwNTY0NjYyS0&mt=1&rt=0.

Five Troon Golf-Managed Courses Named to Esteemed List

2008-08-22T22:34:00.001-04:00

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Golf Magazine’s raters have spoken and Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing congratulates its owned and managed courses that have been named as the “Top 100 You Can Play” for 2008-2009. Featured in Golf Magazine’s September issue, the Pinnacle course at Troon North Golf Club was positioned at No. 21 in the nation and the best in Arizona. With the Monument ranked at No. 45, Troon North features two courses in the top 50. Both The Quarry course at Giants Ridge and the Lake of Isles’ North course improved their positions on the biennial ranking, which includes public-access courses from across the nation. Branson Creek Golf Club made its third consecutive appearance on the list as well.

Troon Golf courses that received recognition as the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” include:

No. 21 – Troon North Golf Club, Pinnacle – Scottsdale, Ariz.
No. 45 – Troon North Golf Club, Monument – Scottsdale, Ariz.
No. 50 – Giants Ridge Golf & Ski Resort, The Quarry – Biwabik, Minn.
No. 76 – Branson Creek Golf Club – Branson, Mo.
No. 85 – Lake of Isles, North course – North Stonington, Conn.

“We congratulate these properties for being named among the best golf courses in the country,” stated Hud Hinton, president and COO, Troon Golf. “These facilities continually strive to provide superlative golf experiences and we are especially proud of their accomplishments.”

Several of Troon Golf’s managed facilities were also recognized by Golf Magazine as “The Best Courses Near You,” in a state-by-state ranking. These courses include:

Arizona
No. 1 – Troon North Golf Club, Pinnacle – Scottsdale
No. 4 – Troon North Golf Club, Monument – Scottsdale
No. 14 – Talking Stick Golf Club, North – Scottsdale
No. 19 – Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass, Cattail – Chandler
No. 21 – Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass, Devil’s Claw – Chandler
No. 23 – Golf Club of Estrella – Goodyear
No. 27 – The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, Ridge & Canyon – Tucson

California
No. 26 – Maderas Golf Club – San Diego

Colorado
No. 7 – The Ridge at Castle Pines North – Castle Rock

Connecticut
No. 1 – Lake of Isles, North – North Stonington

Florida
No. 8 – Camp Creek Golf Club – Panama City Beach

Georgia
No. 7 – The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa – Savannah

Michigan
No. 5 – Forest Dunes Golf Club – Roscommon

Minnesota
No. 1 – Giants Ridge Golf & Ski Resort, The Quarry – Biwabik
No. 6 – Giants Ridge Golf & Ski Resort, The Legend – Biwabik

Missouri
No. 1 – Branson Creek Golf Club – Branson

Montana
No. 1 – Old Works – Anaconda

New Jersey
No. 9 – Sand Barrens Golf Club – Swainton

Oregon
No. 13 – Sandpines Golf Links – Florence

South Carolina
No. 13 – Daufuskie Island Resort & Breathe Spa, Melrose – Hilton Head Island

Texas
No. 4 – The Westin La Cantera Resort, Palmer Course – San Antonio
No. 11 – The Westin La Cantera Resort, Resort Course – San Antonio

Utah
No. 1 – Entrada at Snow Canyon Country Club – St. George

Vermont
No. 5 – The Golf Club at Equinox – Manchester Village

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon Golf is the world’s largest golf management company, overseeing operations at more than 200 courses located in 31 states and 31 countries. Additionally, 36 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; Talking Stick Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; The Clubs at St. James Plantation, Southport, N.C.; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Cancun, Mexico; and The Grove, London, England.

Desiring the Finer Things in Life: Resort in Las Vegas Makes Luxury an Affordable Reality

2008-08-16T11:04:00.001-04:00

HENDERSON, NV, August 15, 2008 - Strolling through cobblestone streets along the waterfront, wine glass in hand filled with the delectable nectar of the vines, perusing shops, delighting in scrumptious delicacies as musicians captivate with their melodies...sound like a dream? It can become a reality at the Vino di Lago Wine tastings through the MonteLago Village Resort in Las Vegas!

On August 30th, from 7 to 10 pm, meander through the picturesque Village tasting a variety of wines at 20 shops and restaurants, while the musical sounds of Azul entertain the ears. Tickets are $25 per person, available on-site the day of the event. Vino di Lago wine walks support both Par for the Cure, which raises money to support Breast Cancer Research, and Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada, which provides support for families touched with childhood cancer.

If you wish to make a weekend out of this fun and benevolent Lake Las Vegas event, a lodging package including two tickets to the event and accommodations for one night is available at a discount rate by calling 1-866-383-1592 or visiting http://montelagovillage.com/deals. Don't miss this relaxing and indulgent experience, for a good cause, once a month through October.

Plan now for your September golf getaway at the MonteLago Village Resort, surrounded by challenging championship courses, all with spectacular views of Lake Las Vegas. High Season is coming, so now is your chance to plan your Las Vegas hotel package ahead of time and get your best rounds in before the rush.

From September 1st to the 20th, MonteLago Village Resort is offering Low Season rates for the High Season dates. For as low as $149.50 per person, golfers can enjoy a one-night stay at the resort plus a round of golf at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Reflection Bay Golf course. Book early because tee times and accommodations will go fast! Call 1-866-383-1592 for reservations and more information.

About MonteLago Village Resort
MonteLago Village Resort in Las Vegas is a unique luxury Las Vegas resort and real estate opportunity located 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Set among the desert mountains of Nevada on the shores of Lake Las Vegas, the Mediterranean-themed village offers upscale shopping and dining, world-class golfing, European-style gaming and access to the championship golf and lakeside recreation of this Henderson, Nevada hotel and the surrounding area. For more information, call 1-866-383-1592, call the events hotline at 702-564-4766, or visit http://montelagovillage.com.

Nick Faldo to design golf course at Revelstoke Mountain Resort

2008-08-14T21:21:00.002-04:00

REVELSTOKE, BC, Aug. 14 /CNW/ - Nick Faldo, the British golfer and
captain of the 2008 European Ryder Cup Team, will design an 18-hole resort
golf course to open in summer 2011 at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. With more
than 40 tournament victories, six Major wins and a record 11 Ryder Cup
appearances, Nick Faldo is Britain's most successful golfer.
"Revelstoke Mountain Resort will offer a golfing experience that combines
breathtaking views with engaging and tactical golf," says Nick Faldo. "Set
amidst towering trees and meandering creeks, the course will incorporate
strategic features that take full advantage of the varied terrain and natural
characteristics of the site."
Opening last winter to international acclaim, Revelstoke Mountain Resort
now offers the longest lift-serviced vertical descent in North America at
5,620 feet. In addition, Hawkair Aviation begins scheduled service four times
a week between Calgary and Revelstoke this December.
The Revelstoke Mountain Resort course will sit at the base of the
mountain adjacent to the village base and the Nelsen Lodge condominiums.
Offering spectacular views of the Columbia River and the Monashee Mountains,
the valley location will ensure a long playing season from mid-April to
October. Crews will break ground in spring 2009.
"The development of the resort's golf course will take the resort from an
exceptional winter experience to the ultimate year-round recreational
destination," says Paul Skelton, president of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. "We
have created a pure skiing and riding experience that has captured the world's
attention. With Nick Faldo's understanding of golf and his record for
excellence, we will deliver that level of excitement on the golf course."
This ski season, the first of three buildings in Nelsen Lodge will open
with 59 condo units, ranging in size from studios to three bedrooms; it will
be managed by Boutique Hotels and Resorts of British Columbia. By 2009 there
will be over 200 condos in Nelsen Lodge plus 24 townhomes and 50 single family
lots, some with private helicopter landing pads.
The $1 billion, four-season Revelstoke Mountain Resort is expected to be
completed over 15 years and include over 5,500 new housing units comprising
top-tier luxury hotels, townhomes and single family homes, along with more
than 300,000 square feet of commercial and retail space.

Saddle Creek Offers Wine/Dine/Golf Packages

2008-08-12T14:55:00.002-04:00

Saddle Creek Resort (www.saddlecreek.com) is rolling out its summer vacation packages. Included are golf, tennis, wine tasting, local theater and culinary events … the resort’s most robust and diverse packages to date.

Guests stay in the fully-appointed Saddle Creek Bungalows, conveniently located along the first and second holes of the Carter Morrish-designed course. Bungalows feature full kitchens, flat screen televisions, relaxing back patios and complimentary wireless Internet. Easily accessible from the bungalows are Saddle Creek Resort’s miles of hiking and biking trails, the Sports Club with tennis courts, swimming pool and fitness facility, and the award-winning Copper Grille, showcasing more than 500 wines from around the world.

Single room, one-bedroom suite and two-bedroom suites (full bungalows) are available. Rates are based on single, double, triple and quad occupancy and require a minimum two-night, Friday and Saturday stay.

The Stay-Cation Package, July 26 – 28 and August 22-24: Includes two-nights lodging, dinner one night, a Friday sunset wine and cheese boat cruise on Lake Tulloch, preferred Saturday afternoon tee times at the twilight rate, and unlimited use of the Sports Club. Price: $92.50 to $355.

Ironstone Concert Series Package, July 27, August 2, 9, 17, September 5 and October 4 (Option 1): Includes two nights lodging, breakfast each morning, platinum seating tickets (with dinner) to concert of choice (limited to ticket availability), shuttle to and from concert with wine and cheese, preferred tee times at the twilight rate and unlimited use of the Sports Club. (Option 2): dinner one night and platinum lawn tickets (chairs provided). Price: $159 to $729.

Calaveras County Wine Tour Package: Two nights lodging, breakfast each morning, Friday night dinner with an introduction to Calaveras Wines by GM Bill Troyanoski, in-room wine and cheese upon arrival, tour and tasting at six local award-winning wineries (Saturday), and unlimited use of the Sports Club. Price: $257 to $467.

Outdoor Theatre Package: Two nights lodging, breakfast each morning, tickets to Murphy’s Creek Outdoor Theater at Stevenot Winery, wine and cheese with picnic basket dinner and two lawn chairs, shuttle transportation, preferred tee times for Saturday afternoon at twilight rate, and unlimited use of the Sports Club. Price: $262 to $487.

For more information or to book packages, visit www.saddlecreek.com or call 800.611.7722.

Sol Melia Vacation Club Launches First Club Resort Location in Tenerife and Fourth in Canary Islands, Spain

2008-08-04T21:57:00.002-04:00

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug 04, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Sol Melia Vacation Club (The CLUB) announces the opening this summer of "The CLUB at Gran Melia Palacio de Isora, Canary Islands in Spain. SMVC at Gran Melia Palacio de Isora features 200 one-and-two bedroom oceanfront suites with lavish amenities such as plasma TVs, full-equipped kitchenettes, and upscale wood and granite accents. The resort includes five restaurants, six bars, room service, a wine cellar, the world-class Yhi Spa, two tennis courts, a golf simulator, four adult swimming pools and two children's pools, including one of the largest swimming pools in Europe.
This newest Sol Melia Vacation Club in Tenerife, is the fourth location in the Canary Islands for the Orlando-based company, which is part of Spain-based Sol Melia Hotels & Resorts. "By adding more member resorts in the Canary Islands, we are responding to the increased demand for a luxury lifestyle product in Europe and a new, exotic location for our members," said Alain Grange, Chief Executive of Sol Melia Vacation Club.
Sol Melia Vacation Club is an internationally-branded membership club that focuses on providing leisure lifestyle experiences that include exotic destinations, designer-appointed luxury accommodations, exclusive services and unforgettable amenities. The lifestyle concept is designed to provide members with an entire lifetime of leisure experiences to meet their ever changing needs. All members have access through The CLUB to stay at any of the Sol Melia hotels and resorts worldwide, including those in destinations such as Paris, London, Madrid, Rome and more.
Sol Melia Hotels & Resorts is a 50-year-old international hospitality company with 350 hotels in 30 countries on five continents. Sol Melia Vacation Club members enjoy the best of both worlds: all the conveniences and amenities of a world-class resort, plus the value, flexibility and choice that vacation membership offers. Members have more vacation lifestyle options through global luxury accommodations in a variety of unique resort and urban destinations around the world, as well as the flexibility to choose the length of stay, season and size of unit. In addition, Members can save their vacation time from one year to the next if needed, borrow from future vacation years to create a special experience that could include airfare or a spectacular cruise, divide their vacation time into shorter getaway or nightly stays, or stay at any Sol Melia hotel or affiliated resort worldwide.
For Sol Melia Vacation Club details, call (407) 370-3671 or visit www.smvc.com.
SOURCE: Sol Melia Vacation Club

Take a Swing at Unlimited World-Class Golf and Bring the Kids...Orlando World Center Marriott Resort Golf Package is a Big Hit

2008-07-31T21:45:00.002-04:00

ORLANDO, Fla., Jul 31, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Bring the entire family and take a swing at world-class golf on the 18-hole championship Hawk's Landing Golf Club, located right outside the atrium lobby of the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort. From $249-$409 per room, per night now through January 1, 2009, the golf package includes:
-- One night's deluxe accommodations at the Four-Diamond Resort
-- Unlimited daily golf for two
-- Kids 15 and under play free with parents after 3:00 pm and get free club rental
-- Breakfast buffet for two in Solaris restaurant
Wrapping around the resort's 200 tropical acres, the par-71, 6,600+ yards course, with four sets of tees, brilliantly engineered by Robert Cupp Jr., offers players the opportunity to walk this green masterpiece. The layout challenges the heart and soul of every player with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards on 15 holes, including the entire back nine. The Bill Madonna Golf Academy, led by Bill Madonna, one of Golf Magazine's Top 100 Teachers, and his skilled team of professionals are ready to help any family member "par-fect" their game. Hawk's Landing Golf Club is also a Callaway partner and features an award-winning golf shop with the latest equipment, a driving range and an extensive practice facility.
There is something for everyone at this family-friendly vacation destination. The resort is home to one-million gallons of liquid refreshment encompassing the adventurous lagoon-shaped pool with its 106-foot curvy waterslide, secluded spa pool, indoor pool, two children's pools and six whirlpool spas. Experience the full service Spa, Har-Tru lighted tennis courts, basketball and volleyball courts and 10 diverse restaurants and lounges including a food court, and a Starbucks(R) for families on the go.
The Orlando World Center Marriott Resort is located 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World(R) and just minutes from SeaWorld(R) Orlando, Discovery Cove(R), Aquatica(TM), and Universal Studios(R) Orlando. For more information or reservations, call 888-99-WORLD and ask for rate code GOF, or visit www.worldsbestvacation.com.
Packages are based on availability and commissionable to travel agents.
SOURCE: Orlando World Center Marriott Resort

Sea Trail Golf Resort in North Carolina Boasts Top 100 Golf Course

2008-07-29T18:35:00.003-04:00

The Jones course at Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center, located in Sunset Beach, N.C., was named one of the top 100 courses along the North Carolina coast by the North Carolina Golf Panel. The Panel’s rankings were reported in the April issue of Business North Carolina magazine in a special section spotlighting the state’s 100 best courses.

Sea Trail's Jones Course is ranked number 64 among the state's Top 100, making it a part of a prestigious list that includes Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club, the site of the 2006 U.S. Women's Open and the renowned Pinehurst No. 2.

"We are very excited to be included in Business North Carolina's Top 100" said Tom Plankers, President of Golf at Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center. “It’s important to us that our guests and members know Sea Trail is ranked with the best North Carolina has to offer. We make every effort to offer a great golf experience and it is gratifying to see that the panel members appreciate our effort.”

The Jones Course debuted in spring 1990. Its namesake, Rees Jones, has earned the nickname “The Open Doctor” for his redesign of courses that were preparing to host major championships. He has remodeled seven U.S. Open venues, five PGA courses, three Ryder Cup sites, and one Walker Cup course. Jones, who is the son of the “father of modern golf course architecture,” Robert Trent Jones, skillfully applied his knowledge and experience in the design of his course at Sea Trail.

The Business North Carolina rankings are based on survey results from the North Carolina Golf Panel. Panel members can only vote on courses they have played.

(more)

About Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center
Sea Trail is a 2000-acre golf resort and residential community with three courses of distinction and the largest convention facility on the North Carolina coast.

A popular location for meetings and conventions, Sea Trail has over 60,000 square feet of meeting and function space. Sea Trail was the host site for the 2003 and the 2007 Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

The recreational heart of Sea Trail is its three courses designed by Dan Maples, Rees Jones and Willard Byrd. Other amenities include a Village Activity Center with indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpools, an on-staff licensed massage therapist, supervised children’s activities and Magnolias Fine Food & Spirits. Sunset Beach, known for its extraordinary beauty and serenity, is a short drive east of Sea Trail. In addition, a huge variety of entertainment, shopping, nightlife and cultural opportunities are just south of Sea Trail along the Grand Strand.

Sea Trail is located in Sunset Beach, N.C., which is between Wilmington, N.C. and Myrtle Beach, S.C. More information is available online at www.seatrail.com or by calling 888-675-9237.

Web Site: http://www.seatrail.com

Contact Details: Sea Trail Corporation
80 Mill Pond Rd.
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
888-675-9237

Sun Valley Resort Announces Opening Date for White Clouds

2008-07-28T07:41:00.002-04:00

SUN VALLEY, Idaho -- Sun Valley Resort – North America’s first ski resort and home to a large array of upscale, family friendly amenities – announces it will open its new White Clouds Golf Course on Monday, Aug. 11.

Tee times are now being accepted and can be booked by calling 208-622-2251.

Additionally, Sun Valley will open “The Clubhouse” on Wednesday, Aug. 20. A beautiful, 58,000-square-foot stone and wood structure, The Clubhouse will serve as both the pro shop for Sun Valley’s two golf courses in summer, and the Nordic Ski operations in the winter. It also contains a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating on The Clubhouse’s three-sided deck. Deck views include the surrounding mountains, the new practice facility and the new 18-hole putting course.

Designed by Donald Knott, a longtime chief architect for Robert Trent Jones Jr., the White Clouds Golf Course is an “Alpine links” design which rises up 300 feet from Sun Valley’s mile-high-plus base. However, the elevation changes occur primarily between the holes on White Clouds, which enable panoramic views and lessen blind shots to virtually nil.

Sun Valley, which has its own airport (SUN) and offers commercial and private jet service, will also unveil a new, 25-acre practice facility and 18-hole putting course named Sawtooths (patterned after the Himalayas putting course at St. Andrews), likely in September.

The Sun Valley Pavilion is scheduled to open Aug. 3 and will be home to the Sun Valley Summer Symphony, the world’s largest privately funded, free-admission concert series.

The existing Trail Creek Course at Sun Valley – named after the creek that traverses the course seven times – is a parkland-style design with narrow fairways bordered by beautiful Cottonwood trees. Originally opened in 1937, the course was redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Knott, his lead architect, in 1978-79.

For more information about Sun Valley Resort call 800-894-9941 or visit www.sunvalley.com.

About Sun Valley Resort

There can only be one original ski resort and since 1936 Sun Valley has held that distinction. Born out of a desire to bring the mystique of the European ski resorts to America, Sun Valley quickly became a phenomenon without peer on this continent or any other.

America’s first destination resort, where the world’s first chairlift was engineered, Sun Valley was built to enchant the nobility and celebrity of the day. Today the patina of old world charm blends beautifully with everything modern, easily accessible with non-stop daily air service.

Originated in 1936 by Union Pacific Railroad, Sun Valley is located in the Northern Rockies region of south central Idaho and is open year-round with four distinctly beautiful seasons. There are more outdoor recreations here than any other destination resort in the U.S.

Sun Valley Resort is privately owned by the R. Earl Holding family, owners of Sinclair Oil Corporation. Sister properties include Snowbasin Ski Resort, Grand America Hotel, Little America Hotel and Towers, all SLC, UT., Westgate Hotel, San Diego, CA, Little America Flagstaff, AZ, Little America, WY, and Little America, Cheyenne, WY.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Dan Shepherd, Buffalo Communications, 703.891.3320, dshepherd@buffalocommunications.com

Rob Thomas, Buffalo Communications, 330-696-1476, rthomas@buffalocommunications.com

Innisbrook Offers New Family Walking Course

2008-07-25T08:10:00.002-04:00

Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club is reaching out to families this summer with tremendous values on their spacious, condo-style suites, and the opening of a new 9-hole family walking course. In partnership with NIKE, the Fox Squirrel family walking course was created for all ages – no golf skills required. This 9-hole, par 32, 850 yard walking course, will open at 4 pm each afternoon (beginning Memorial Day Weekend) at no charge to resort guests, providing the perfect option to get the whole family together to relax and enjoy the great summer weather. Guests can also play miniature golf, take daily golf and tennis clinics (junior clinics are offered as well as adult) and sharpen their putting skills on a 9-hole natural grass putting course. This new family recreation area also offers shuffleboard, basketball and beach volleyball and all of these activities are offered at no charge. Families are also sure to love the NIKE Golf & Tennis Shop offering a complete line of junior’s golf, tennis and resort wear and accessories, as well as club rentals for adults and juniors of all ages from toddlers to teens for a nominal fee. Kids can even keep their Nike golf ball at the end of the day as a souvenir of a great time together.

“It’s all about keeping families together and creating great summer memories,” stated Innisbrook’s Managing Director Chuck Pomerantz. “Our suites are like having your own condo for your stay so you’re very comfortable and you’ve got our new complementary family recreation area that will make having a great time together truly effortless.”

Staying in a cramped hotel room will no longer be a consideration with Innisbrook’s Sweet Spot vacation packages starting as low as $149 per night for a comfortable suite with a full kitchen and private balcony or patio overlooking the golf courses and natural landscape). This special suite rate is available from May 22 – October 1, 2008.

In addition to all the fun in the new Family Golf and Recreation Center, resort guests can soak up the summer sun with swimming in one of six pools at the resort, including the Loch Ness Monster Pool with two winding waterslides, cascading waterfalls, sandy beach areas for castle building and poolside games, music and dining. Bike riding throughout the resort’s wooded 900+ acres is always a family favorite as well as lakeside fishing, jogging, a stroll down the Nature Walk, or tennis on any of 11 Har-tru clay courts, lighted for evening play. Innisbrook’s four championship golf courses are always a guest favorite including Copperhead, the PGA TOUR players’ favorite courses to play in Florida, and the newly renovated Island course. Junior golfers play for FREE with a paying adult all summer long.

If adults are looking for 18 holes of championship golf or a tennis match on their own, or maybe just some quiet time poolside, the kids are sure to enjoy CAMP INNISBROOK for supervised fun for ages 3-11. Activities include games, arts and crafts, swimming and special activities at the Loch Ness Monster pool, golf and tennis clinics, nature explorations, Tye-Dye parties, and much more. When making reservations be sure to ask about special themed weekends at the resort as well as the popular July 4th Sweet Spot package including a delicious barbeque and an amazing fireworks display.

Innisbrook is also just minutes from local attractions, such as Busch Gardens Amusement Park and beautiful area beaches including Caladesi Island – the #2 rated beach in America. To make you summer reservations at Innisbrook call 800-456-2000, or visit the web site at www.innisbrookgolfresort.com.

Situated on 900 wooded acres of rolling hills and 70 acres of lakes on Florida’s Gulf Coast near Tampa, Florida, Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club is located just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport and gorgeous Gulf Coast beaches. Innisbrook features 72 holes of championship golf, 620 spacious guest suites and rooms, four restaurants and three bars, the Innisbrook Golf Institute, 11 tennis courts, fitness and racquetball center, six heated swimming pool complexes, a nature preserve, and three conference halls with 65,000 square feet of meeting space. Innisbrook is owned and managed by Salamander Hospitality, a privately owned and operated company based in Middleburg, VA, just outside Washington, DC and built upon a uniquely entrepreneurial approach to the hospitality business. For additional information call (727) 942-2000 or visit www.innisbrookgolfresort.com.

Dominican Republic Golf Resorts

2008-07-24T01:13:00.002-04:00

In the massive new Cap Cana residential and vacation development in the Dominican Republic, the first of three Jack Nicklaus Signature courses, Punta Espada, is open, and a second, Las Iguanas, opens later in 2008. Punta Espada has already hosted a PGA Champions Tour event. Eight holes hug the oceanfront, with views of miles of dazzling white sand beaches and a busy new marina. The $500 million master plan includes the largest inland mega yacht marina in the Caribbean, a village of boutiques and restaurants, a luxury spa, tennis complex, beach club, polo grounds, casino, Trump Farralon estates, a Ritz-Carlton resort hotel and residences, and more.

Golf Resort News

2008-07-24T01:11:00.001-04:00

The 18-Hole Prospector Golf Course, designed by Palmer Course Design Co., is part of Suncadia, a new 6,300-acre resort community in Roslyn, Wash., 80 miles from Seattle. The Inn at Suncadia opened last August with 14 guest rooms, four suites, and 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space, accommodating up to 150 people. www.destinationhotels.com

The upcoming grand opening on September 9 of Rosen Shingle Creek is big news in Orlando. The 1,500 guest rooms and suites will feature 32-inch, flat-screen TVs with connectivity panels for laptop, iPod, and other devices. The TVs feature NXTV technology for setting up restaurant reservations, spa appointments, or tee times, as well as access the Internet to view meeting schedules. The technology also allows guests to use broadcast messaging if attending a convention, and for accessing an e-mail address issued during their stay. The resort's 250,000 square feet of meeting space includes a 95,000-square-foot, column-free ballroom. The 13,000-square-foot Spa at Shingle Creek will have nine treatment rooms. Golfers can tee off at the resort's David Harmon — designed, 18-hole, par-72 course, which opened in December 2003. www.rosenshinglecreek.com

In Brewster, Mass., ClubCorp-managed Ocean Edge Resort & Club on Cape Cod is embarking on a complete redesign of its 18-hole PGA Championship golf course by the Nicklaus Design Group. The redesign will begin with the back nine, leaving the front nine playable until it's their turn. www.oceanedge.com

The 330-room Celtic Manor Resort, 90 minutes from London and 30 minutes from Cardiff, Wales, well known for its three championship parkland golf courses, has been awarded a 5-Wave grading (equivalent to a five-star rating for a hotel) from the British International Spa Association for its Forum Spa. The Forum Spa has 16 treatment rooms. A satellite spa, The Clarins Health Spa, opened in January in the two-story lodge clubhouse with six treatment rooms. The resort's conference center has 24 meeting rooms accommodating from 10 to 170 people, as well as the Caernarfon Suite, which can accommodate 1,500. www.celtic-manor.com

Central Myrtle Beach golf on a budget

2008-06-16T07:34:00.003-04:00

Don't want to pay $100+ to play one of the premier resort courses in the Grand Strand area, there are some great tracks you can play that will keep your budget intact. Up and down the Myrtle beach area there are a number of enjoyable courses that you can play and still be able to enjoy dinner and sleep in a quality room. :)! You can also save significant dollars by playing Monday-Wednesday and during off-peak times of the year. The general prices I'm going to mention here are reflective of those conditions. In this first post, we'll cover courses that are in the vicinity of central Myrtle Beach. In later posts we'll move up and down the coast identifying other courses that won't tap your budget.

Arrowhead Country Club, a mile or so off 501 can be played for around $60 and is usually in great condition. With 27 holes, this Tom Jackson course opened in 1994, Arrowhead combines challenging golf with great conditioning.

Also near the 501 area, Man O' War has traditionally been in nice condition with an open layout, and a lot O' water. Built on a 100 acre lake, this Dan Maples layout can be played for around $60, and offers wide fairways, large greens and not much trouble (other than the water) and good pace of play. It's sister courses The Witch and The Wizard are also enjoyable tracks and occassionally you can find discounts available if you play all 3.

Just across 501 are the Legends Courses, (Heathland, Parkland and Moorland) which offer distinctive styles of play, and can be played for about $70. With great practice facilities, varying layouts, and lots of amenities, it's worth considering.

If you're looking for a no nonsense basic layout without a lot of tricks, Myrtle Beach National West course might be worth a look. For about $40, MBN-West is a great course for your first round where you want to take the rust off, play a course with friendly management, that offers an opportunity to score well and get your frame of mind right for the more challenging courses in your trip.

Further south of 501, John Daly's Wicked Stick is usually in good shape and doesn't strain the budget with it's $40 fees. Opening in 1995, this track features a lot of open fairways though you need to watch out for the deep bunkers.

There are other courses as well in the central area that are budget friendly, but some are also a step down in terms of quality, amenities, and interesting golf. But if you're staying in the 501 area, you should give a few of the courses above a look. Next time we'll venture south of MB and see what courses offer good value while still letting you afford to put gas in your car.

Going to Myrtle Beach, SC for Golf? Some insights from many trips to Golf Mecca

2008-06-15T08:46:00.002-04:00

Well, if you're thinking of heading to Myrtle Beach to play golf, by yourself or with a group, you've made a great choice. The golf selection in Myrtle Beach is incredible. Over a 100 courses are waiting for you to experience. But it pays to think ahead. If you're a spontaneous person that likes to grab the clubs and hit the road, you wont be disappointed but with a little planning, you can turn a good time into a great time.

First, think about the time of year you plan to go. Late spring is usually a great time to be at hte beach playing golf but it's also the most expensive time. Premier courses charge a premium during this peak time. For example, the Barefoot Resort courses, which play at a high of about $100 during May-Sept can run upwards of $160 during the winter and spring times. This is true for most of the courses down there. So if you're trying to play great courses on a budget, consider changing your time of year to save some money.

Also, if you are planning a group outing, consider using a booking agent like GolfDesk (http://www.goldesk.com) to arrange your tee times. Booking agents will generally get a better rack rate than you will if you're planning in advance.
They can assist you with accommodations and they can recommend courses based on condition, player's ability, etc.

So you're ready to go and you want to low down on what courses are great and which ones to avoid? Well, in general, all of the premier courses and resorts are well kept and good plays anytime. International World Tour, TPC, Dunes, Grand Dunes, True Blue, etc, all are great plays. But before booking tee times just off names, you might want to visit some review sites and read up on the courses just in case there's something that you find you don't like. For example, many courses have condos and golf villas that back up to the golf course. So if you don't like courses where you weave around and through condos and parking lots, you definately want to do some checking into the course specifics. This is very common at a lot o courses in Myrtle Beach. The more upscale courses have plenty of room in the fairways and off the tees, but some have pretty tight OB areas which I don't care for at all.

Another resource for you to look at is the Myrlte Beach Golf Association's web page (http://www.mbga.com/). This site gets updated periodically and lists local recommendations for the Top 20 and Bottom 20 courses. I would definitely make sure you avoid the courses listed in the Basement listing. But in addition to recommendations, the site also has course demographic and overall rating information for many of the courses in the Grand Strand area.

So with a little planning and research, you can identify some great courses to play and maybe save a buck or two doing it.

Next time, I will identify a number of courses in the Grand Strand talk about the course, the management, facilities, etc.

Thanks

Saddlebrook Resort Invites You and Your Foursome to Experience Golf the Saddlebrook Way

2008-06-14T11:02:00.001-04:00

Saddlebrook Resort is offering its guests a golf foursome package featuring accommodations and golf amenities at what Conde Nast called one of the Top 100 Golf Resorts.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) June 9, 2008 -- Saddlebrook Resort is reaching out to the Tiger in you! They are offering you and your foursome their Suite Deal at what the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler's Magazine named one of their Top 100 Golf Resorts. The 2-nights package offers alternating golf games on both of their courses, The Palmer course, which features firm, fast and undulating Tif-Eagle greens, and the Saddlebrook course with Tif-Dwarf greens and its low lying areas surrounded by Cypress trees. Also included are deluxe accommodations in one of their spacious 3-bedroom suites, sleeping four golfers -- including a separate living room, dining area, and fully equipped kitchen. There's plenty of room to relax, play cards, or just sit out on your private balcony or patio. Package includes:

* Accommodations in a 3-bedroom suite
* Daily Breakfast
* Daily golf (18-holes, cart & greens fees)
* Second golf rounds at cart fee of $25 (subject to availability)
* Nightly club cleaning and storage
* Practice range use (one bucket of balls daily)
* Advance tee times
* Resort Fee

Package is only $149.00 per person, per night, quad occupancy and is available from June 13 until October 4th, 2008.

"Any golfer would equate playing on our greens to playing on cloud nine. Our courses were designed by Arnold Palmer, and by getting your favorite foursome together, not only will your group appreciate playing on one of the finest courses in Florida, but they'll also appreciate the immense savings supplied by our offer," said Alberto Martinez-Fonts, Director of Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations at Saddlebrook Resort.

Any golfer would equate playing on our greens to playing on cloud nine. Our courses were designed by Arnold Palmer, and by getting your favorite foursome together, not only will your group appreciate playing on one of the finest courses in Florida, but they'll also appreciate the immense savings supplied by our offer
To read more about this offer and to book online, please visit their website.

About Saddlebrook Resort:
Saddlebrook Resort in Tampa is a luxury golf and tennis resort ideal for leisure and business travel. Located just 30 miles north of Tampa International airport, Saddlebrook offers an award winning resort setting with luxury accommodations and facilities for corporate events, meetings and conferences, spa getaways, family reunions, kids camp, and Florida golf and tennis vacations. The resort also features a unique Walking Village layout, so that guests can stroll from accommodations to meeting rooms, function space, recreation, restaurants and shops in minutes.

Golf Town to Host Second Annual Charity Tournament in Toronto Benefiting Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada

2008-04-27T16:35:00.001-04:00

(TORONTO) Golf Town, Canada's largest golf retailer with unequaled selection and competitive prices at 38 locations coast to coast announces the 2008 Golf Town Invitational charity tournament will be headlined by Tour stars Bernhard Langer and Tom Watson at Toronto's Magna Golf Club, on Monday, June 2.

Benefiting the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada (PCRFC), the 2008 Golf Town Invitational will raise funds to help fight prostate cancer and increase awareness of the most common cancer in men. The event is limited to 26 foursomes, with exclusive opportunities to participate still available by contacting the PCRFC at 416.441.2131.

"Based on the tremendous success of our inaugural Golf Town Invitational in 2007 we've decided to make this tournament an annual tradition," says Stephen Bebis, President and CEO of Golf Town. The event not only supports a tremendously worthy cause, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for passionate golfers to share an intimate day with two of the game's greatest players."

Sponsored in part by Rogers and Ericsson Canada, the event's highlights will include participant pictures with the headlining professionals, a nine-hole tournament, awards luncheon and clinic conducted by the Tour stars, followed by a nine-hole exhibition match and cocktail reception.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to interact with Adams Golf staff players Langer and Watson, who are both members of the World Golf Hall of Fame. A former European Ryder Cup captain, Langer is a two-time Masters champion. Watson has claimed eight majors and was the world's No. 1 player from 1978-1982.

Among the largest charitable givers in the Canadian golf industry, Golf Town has donated more than $2 million since opening its first store in 1999. Together, the Annual Golf Town Invitational and Golf Town Charity Classic raise hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to benefit the PCRFC (www.prostatecancer.ca).

Golf Town offers an unbeatable selection of clubs, bags, balls, apparel, footwear, accessories, gifts, logo merchandise, promotional services and more. This includes the world's leading golf brands, such as Adams, Bridgestone, Callaway Golf, Cleveland, Cobra, Dunning, ECCO, FootJoy, Founders Club, Gordon Cooper, Greg Norman, Honma, Hugo Boss, LaCoste, Liz Claiborne, LIJA, Mizuno, Nike Golf, Odyssey, Ogio, Paradise, Ping, Sun Mountain, TaylorMade adidas Golf, Titleist and Wilson.

For more information, please visit www.golftown.com or call 905.479.0343.

Sun Valley Resort Names New, Existing Golf Courses

2008-04-22T18:08:00.002-04:00

Iconic Resort Unveils Eye-Catching Logos, Keeping in Step with Glorious Tradition while Ushering in a New Era at the ‘American Original’

Close to Sun Valley Resort, the Sawtooth Mountains rise thousands of feet above the headwaters of the Salmon River, like saws set on edge. Just to the east of the Sawtooths above wrinkled, wooded foothills the White Cloud Mountains soar in summits which seem covered in vanilla ice cream.

These majestic peaks and their beauty are the inspiration for and namesakes of the new courses at Sun Valley Golf Resort, which will debut this summer.

The new, championship 9-hole layout – designed by Donald Knott of Knott, Brooks, Linn Golf Course Design Group of California – is named White Clouds Course and complements the original, highly regarded 18-hole course which sits amid towering Cottonwoods in the valley below. Likewise, the new, 18-hole putting course is named the Sawtooths because its layout and mounding resemble the adjacent Sawtooths mountain range.

The original 18-hole course at Sun Valley, which was redesigned by Knott in 1978-79 while with Robert Trent Jones Jr., has been renamed the Trail Creek Course. Trail Creek traverses the course seven times and along with narrow fairways bordered by beautiful Cottonwood trees and out of bounds, are the primary, and formidable, defenses of the course.

The new course names at Sun Valley pay homage to the breathtaking mountains which have silently and elegantly stood sentinel over the area for time immemorial.

"White Clouds is the perfect name for our new 9-hole course because it sits high above the valley with 360 degree panoramic views – one feels among the clouds on it and can literally be so on occasion," says Sun Valley Resort General Manager Wallace Huffman. "Sun Valley Resort Owner Earl Holding has always prioritized keeping Sun Valley pristine and not overdeveloped. Hence, he could have used this premium, elevated acreage with incredible views to build real estate, which would have been snapped up immediately. Instead, he wanted the course to be here and his vision was impeccable – the vistas, the seamless flow of the course and the hiking trails on the surrounding ridges have conserved the beauty and utility of the area for our guests and generations to come."

Similarly, the new, 18-hole putting course draws its inspiration from the area's unspoiled natural beauty and surrounding peaks. Additional inspiration for its name was derived by an experience General Manager Huffman had while at Scotland's St. Andrews, golf's hallowed birthplace. The 18-hole putting course there is named the Himalayas, also because of the mounding and design which resembles the namesake. And like at St. Andrews, the new Sun Valley putting course is for everyone – from accomplished golfer to beginner, individual to families.
"People who don't play golf and shouldn't play our championship courses can participate in the golf experience via the Sawtooths Putting Course," says GM Huffman. "Simultaneously, accomplished players will find the challenge to be top-notch as this is a true course and not simply several holes cut into a relatively flat, constricted putting green. I can see people enjoying cocktails and a round of putting before dinner on the Sawtooths."

The putting course is located by the new golf clubhouse which is currently being constructed and part of the expansive, new 25-acre practice facility which is also scheduled to debut this summer.
Also under construction and set to unveil later this year at Sun Valley is the Symphony Pavilion, which, like the outdoor ice rink, offers spectacular entertainment under the summer stars. Whereas the ice rink is home to legendary outdoor, summer ice shows that feature Olympic medalists and greats such as Scott Hamilton, Nancy Kerrigan, Sasha Cohen and the Canadian team of Jamie Sale and David Pelletier, the Symphony Pavilion shows are performed by top symphony orchestra members from around the country who come to Sun Valley for the season.

Back to the golf, the White Clouds Course rises up more than 350 vertical feet from the first tee to its highest point and ultimately affords 360-degree views. While other courses in the world have such panoramic views from on high, course architect Knott says he's never seen any as unspoiled or "less impacted" by man-made objects like power lines, development, etc. This is high praise indeed considering Knott, who was the longtime chief architect in the Trent Jones Jr. firm, has designed a multitude of courses around the world.

Trail Creek Course and White Clouds Course couldn't be more different and therefore more complementary for avid golfers who covet diversity and high quality. Whereas Trail Creek Course sits amid tall trees and tight, enclosed fairways and offers small greens via traditional or "parkland" style routing, White Clouds Course offers long-range sight lines, elevation changes, forced carries and large greens – an Alpine Links design, as Knott refers to it.

In conjunction with naming the resort’s championship layouts, Sun Valley has introduced a pair of eye-catching logos, each of which captures the essence of the resort with the iconic Sun Valley sun, while incorporating the inaugural seasons – 1937 and 2008.

An example of what awaits golfers at White Clouds Course is hole No. 5, which could also be called "685 yards of distant golf future." One of the longest par 5s in Idaho – and North America for that matter – from the back tees golfer can see the green over native desert sage though pine trees and sitting well down in a little bowl-like area. Then they must conjure a strategy which will take them safely to their destination while negotiating a serpentine-shaped path which wends its way home amid all sorts of peril.

White Clouds Course is full of dramatic views on every hole – no more so than standing on the eighth tee – a par 4 which measures an intimidating 520 yards from the back tee. The distance is made manageable by the added 7 percent carry provided by the elevation, plus an awe-inspiring 160-foot drop from tee to fairway below – creating an illusion of a golf ball being suspended in time.

The resort expects to break ground on another nine holes to complete White Clouds Course in the near future – bringing the total number of holes at Sun Valley Golf Resort to 36.
For more information about Sun Valley Golf Resort, please call 800-894-9941 or visit www.sunvalley.com.

About Sun Valley Resort
There can only be one original ski resort and since 1936 Sun Valley has held that distinction. Born out of a desire to bring the mystique of the European ski resorts to America, Sun Valley quickly became a phenomenon without peer on this continent or any other. America’s first destination resort, where the world’s first chairlift was engineered, Sun Valley was built to enchant the nobility and celebrity of the day. Today the patina of old world charm blends beautifully with everything modern, easily accessible with non-stop daily air service.

Long known for the world-class skiing on Bald Mountain’s 9,150-foot summit and the beginner-friendly Dollar Mountain, Sun Valley was originated in 1936 by Union Pacific Railroad. In addition to skiing and golf, Sun Valley is flush with activities including ice skating, horseback riding, hiking/biking, tennis, target shooting at the Gun Club, spa, summer outdoor symphony series, and many others.

It is located in the Northern Rockies region of south central Idaho and is open year-round with four distinctly beautiful seasons. There are more outdoor recreations here than any other destination resort in the U.S. Sun Valley Resort is privately owned by the R. Earl Holding family, owners of Sinclair Oil Corporation. Sister properties include Snowbasin Ski Resort, Grand America Hotel, Little America Hotel and Towers, all SLC, UT., Westgate Hotel, San Diego, CA, Little America Flagstaff, AZ, Little America, WY, and Little America, Cheyenne, WY.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Dan Shepherd, Buffalo Communications, 703.891.3320,
dshepherd@buffalocommunications.com

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort Offers Free Golf to Guests This Fall and Winter

2008-04-14T20:40:00.002-04:00

Destin, FL (PRWEB) November 7, 2007 -- Fall and winter are two of the best times of year for golf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and this year Sandestin is doing even more to make the fun affordable for guests. Beginning Oct. 1, 2007, guests who make reservations and stay at the resort between Nov. 16, 2007 and Feb. 2, 2008 will receive one free round of golf at Baytowne Golf Club or The Links Course during their stay. Guests who reserve a stay in any beachfront unit of two-bedrooms or more over the same time frame will receive an upgrade of one free round of golf at Raven Golf Club, the home of a 2006 and 2007 PGA Champions Tour stop.

The Destin golf resort is also rolling out a great deal on golf package trips this fall and winter with the $99 Golf Package, which includes accommodations and daily rounds of golf at either Baytowne Golf Club or The Links Course for only $99 per person per night from Nov. 16, 2007 through Feb. 2, 2008. Packages are based on four guests in a three-bedroom villa with a two-night minimum stay and one round of golf each day.

Unleash your skill at the Destin, Florida golf courses that have won more than 30 awards from respected golf publications and organizations. Baytowne Golf Club, Burnt Pine Golf Club, Raven Golf Club and The Links Course have been lauded as the best in Florida golf. Enjoy any or all of our four championship courses that offer the perfect blend of features and fun. Golf packages and tee times are available year round at Sandestin.

For more information on the Florida golf resort or to book a golf package or tee time, visit www.sandestin.com/pr.aspx.

About Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a 2,400-acre premier destination resort located in Northwest Florida, between Pensacola and Panama City. Sandestin invites guests to enter its world of 30 charming village neighborhoods featuring 1,800 condominiums, villas, town homes and a wide variety of hotel accommodations. The Destin beach resort boasts more than seven miles of sugar-white sand beaches and pristine bayfront, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 98-slip marina, water sports, children's programs, a fitness center and spa, 65,000 square feet of meeting space and a pedestrian village featuring a host of boutique shops, casual and fine dining restaurants, nightclubs and bars that come alive with strolling musicians, street performers, dancing fountains and lively festivals and events. In this complete vacation world, guests can create their own, one-of-a-kind memorable experience. For more information and to secure reservations at Sandestin, call 800/622-1084 or visit www.sandestin.com.

Golf Magazine Announces the 2008 List of "Best Golf Resorts"

2008-04-14T20:38:00.001-04:00

To celebrate the 20th Anniversary of "Best Resorts Awards" GOLF MAGAZINE debuts their platinum Medal Awards and invited their readers input in naming Golf's 75 greatest destinations. New York, NY (Vocus/PRWEB ) March 10, 2008 -- Want to know the ultimate golf destinations in North America? GOLF MAGAZINE has the answer. This year marks the 20th anniversary of GOLF's "Best Resorts Awards," an honor bestowed upon the 75 greatest destinations in North America which appears in the April issue on newsstands today. A complete listing is attached.

The Best Resorts Awards feature is a key initiative because it allows us to provide our readers with the answer to that age-old question: 'Where should I go on my next golf trip?' The 2008 list marks the first time that the magazine gave avid golfers the chance to become part of the process by allowing them to vote via the magazines digital arm, Golf.com. More than 8,000 golf enthusiasts offered their opinions. This year also marks the debut of GOLF's Platinum Medals, an elite award given to the upper echelon of golf properties that excel in course design and playability while providing luxurious accommodations. This year's Platinum winners include The American Club, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Four Seasons Resort Lana'i at Manele Bay, Pinehurst Resort, The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa, The Greenbrier, The Broadmoor, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Pebble Beach Resorts and Sea Island Resort. Furthermore, the magazine created the Green Awards, an honor given to the ten best eco-friendly destinations that have placed a serious emphasis on resource conservation and protection.

Among the 75 resorts listed readers will find nine from the shores of Hawaii, 14 Jack Nicklaus designed courses, four that have played host to a Major Championship, as well as The Lodge at Torrey Pines, the site of the 2008 U.S. Open. Additionally, GOLF MAGAZINE lists the top picks for quality golf and accommodations in each region of the country in "Best in Your Area," and features "Keep Your Eye On," a look at resorts that are up and coming and could find their way onto the list in the near future.

"The Best Resorts Awards feature is a key initiative because it allows us to provide our readers with the answer to that age-old question: 'Where should I go on my next golf trip?'" says David Clarke, Editor, GOLF MAGAZINE. "This year's awards are truly unique because we invited our readers to share their insight through a Golf.com poll. This is an exciting time at GOLF MAGAZINE."

The "Best Resorts Awards" is a biannual feature in the pages of GOLF MAGAZINE. The voting on Golf.com was based on four criteria: golf, lodging, food and drink and service. Forty percent of the resort recognition is based on golf, where voters considered factors such as challenge, playability, scenery, history, facilities and service. The rest of the score was equally weighed among lodging, food and drink and overall service at the resorts.

"The overwhelming insight from our loyal readers on Golf.com speaks volumes to the growing number of traveling golfers and the demand for these awards," says Joe Passov, Senior Travel Editor, GOLF MAGAZINE. "By creating Platinum Medals for the elite resorts in North America we can provide answers for that critical question of 'Which is the best?'"

GOLF Magazine is at the core of the most powerful media company in the game, the Si Golf Group. The magazine, which delivers a monthly circulation of 1.4 million golf enthusiasts and a readership of 6 million, provides the best instruction, equipment reviews and travel coverage in the category. With the combined resources of GOLF, SI's Golf Plus and their home on the web, Golf.com, the SI Golf Group delivers a monthly audience of 13 million avid golfers and fans. GOLF Magazine is published by Time Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc.

The above information must be properly credited as from the pages of GOLF Magazine.

Troon Golf to Manage the Links Hope Island Golf Club

2008-04-12T08:52:00.002-04:00

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to announce it has been appointed to manage The Links Hope Island Golf Club, one of Australia’s flagship golf facilities. Troon Golf will oversee the club’s transition to a fully private facility and further raise amenity and service standards.

Positioned on Queensland’s northern Gold Coast, The Links Hope Island Golf Club is the centerpiece of the Hope Island Resort – a luxurious integrated residential golf resort. The course features rolling green fairways and was designed by five-time British Open champion Peter Thomson and partner Mike Wolveridge. The layout and design of the course is reminiscent of the great courses of Britain and Ireland in the links-style tradition. Primarily, the course consists of two loops of nine holes – the front nine starts off to the southeast in an anticlockwise direction, while the back nine is played in a south-westerly direction finishing with an interesting challenging two holes bordered by a non-tidal lake.

"The Links Hope Island is one of Australia's flagship golf properties, making it an excellent addition to Troon Golf's growing management portfolio" stated Hud Hinton, president and COO, Troon Golf. "As we work with L2 Capital to transition the club to a fully private facility, we will build on the reputation of The Links Hope Island by utilizing our people and quality standards to deliver a truly world-class golf experience to members and their guests."

The front and back nines are separated by an extensive practice facility, consisting of putting greens, a driving range and a chipping green with bunkers. The driving range is unique in that it takes the concept of a driving lake, complete with target greens and bunkers. This area provides a spectacular view from the clubhouse, which is undergoing a million dollar refurbishment program scheduled to be completed in May. In various positions around the back nine holes of the golf course, chipping and putting courses are also available for residents’ use.

“Troon Golf is unquestionably the international leader in prestige golf course management worldwide and we are delighted to have them on board at Hope Island,” said John Thomas, executive chairman of L2 Capital, the property’s new ownership group. “The benefits for all those associated with Hope Island will be enormous as we move towards the full privatization of the club. Troon Golf’s experience, worldwide network and course maintenance, management and marketing systems, will take us to a totally new level.”

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Troon Golf is the world’s largest golf management company, overseeing operations at more than 190 courses located in 32 states and 32 countries. Additionally, 35 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; The Westin Turnberry Resort, Ayrshire, Scotland; The Clubs at St. James Plantation, Southport, N.C.; Troon North Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; Haig Point, Daufuskie Island, S.C.; Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Cancun, Mexico; and The Grove, London, England.

Mountain and Golf Community Currahee Club Named One of Top 100 Residential Golf Courses in the Nation

2008-04-11T09:25:00.001-04:00

Golfweek ranks the community's course as 48 and as one of the top golf courses in Georgia.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) November 27, 2007 -- Mountain and golf community Currahee Club's spectacular Jim Fazio-designed, 18-hole golf course has been named to Golfweek's 2007 ranking of the Top 100 Residential Golf Courses in the U.S. Located in northeast Georgia amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Hartwell, the 7,513-yard course ranked as one of the top golf courses in Georgia and was number 48 overall for the interest, variety and playability of its greens, as well as its dramatic elevation changes.

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Golfweek has again graciously praised Currahee Club's golf course, and we're proud to have this distinction from such an esteemed publication
Each year, Golfweek's panel of 400 golf experts critique 1,900 nominated courses across the nation, including many golf courses in Georgia. Each course is then judged on 10 criteria, including: variety and memorability of each hole; integration of the course with the clubhouse and real estate; trees and landscape management; overall quality of the course's maintenance, and more.

"Golfweek has again graciously praised Currahee Club's golf course, and we're proud to have this distinction from such an esteemed publication," said Chris Whitley - partner with Currahee Club. "To be chosen from among the 17,000 courses in the nation and the hundreds of golf courses in Georgia further establishes Currahee Club as a premier golf community."

The mountain and golf community also was one of the golf courses in Georgia recognized by Golfweek in the magazine's list of the Top 50 Best New Courses in the nation for 2006.

About Currahee Club:
Currahee Club, a mountain and golf community located on Lake Hartwell, is located just 90 minutes from Atlanta and 60 minutes from Greenville, S.C., off of Highway 17 in Toccoa, Ga. Currahee Club is a development of Whitley Development Group, Inc., a father-son team involved with successful, notable properties including The Bear's Club in Palm Beach, Fla., The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa in Jupiter, Fla., Colleton River Plantation near Hilton Head, S.C. and the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta. For more information on Currahee Club, please visit www.curraheeclub.com or call (706) 827-1000 or (888) 560-2582.

Beechtree's Lake Presidential Golf Course And Clubhouse To Open May 1st

2008-04-11T09:21:00.001-04:00

May 1, 2008 marks the official grand opening of Lake Presidential, the 18-hole championship golf course that winds its way throughout the best-selling lake and golf course community in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

Upper Marlboro, MD (PRWEB) April 9, 2008 -- May 1, 2008 marks the official grand opening of Lake Presidential, the 18-hole championship golf course that winds its way throughout the best-selling lake and golf course community in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

Beechtree's residents have been eagerly awaiting this grand opening, and they certainly aren't alone. "The course is going to open at a really good level, and we expect to do almost 4,000 rounds in May," said Nathan Presnal, Lake Presidential's Head Golf Professional.

In August, it will host the MAPGA Senior/Quarter Century Championship, and in May of 2009 it will host the qualifier for the Maryland State Open. The fact that Beechtree will begin hosting golf tournaments and events as early as this summer speaks to the readiness and quality of the course. "It's going to have a mature feel right out of the gate," noted Presnal. "If you look at our trees they're already 60 to 120-feet tall."

The course was developed by Landmark Land, a developer renowned for creating world famous golf courses, including Kiawah Island Ocean Course (host of the 1991 PGA Ryder Cup), Oak Tree Golf Club (host of the 1998 PGA Championship), and Doonbeg Golf Club in County Clare, Ireland.

"We knew the very first time we walked the land that this course was going to be special," said Aref Hinedi, Vice President of Marketing with Ryko Development, the developer of Beechtree. "With the stream valley lake, the rolling topography and, of course, the acres of mature trees, Beechtree is a dream setting for a PGA-quality golf course."

Lake Presidential's golf clubhouse will officially open its doors on May 1, as well. "The Clubhouse is approximately 11,000 square feet, which is a really good size for a public, daily-fee facility," added Presnal. "It's also going to offer amenities not usually associated with public facilities, such as a restaurant with full bar, conference room, and closed-door dining room where you could entertain clients after a round of golf. It gives the feel of a private club experience without having to pay dues."

Everyone from scratch golfers to those just starting out will appreciate the fact that Lake Presidential will have three PGA Professionals on staff from day one. "Having PGA members and proven, certified instructors here further speaks to our commitment to quality," said Presnal.

For more information about Lake Presidential Golf Club, visit LakePresidential.com

The community of Beechtree is located right off Route 301, about 10 minutes from the Beltway and 30 minutes from the Nation's Capital. Over 600 of its 1,200 acres are dedicated to the golf course, a 30-acre lake, mature woodlands, open space, and other amenities, including the Beechtree Swim & Racquet Club, which will overlook the golf course and lake. Upon its completion, Beechtree will be home to over $30 million worth of amenities.

7 decorated models are currently open. Executive Single Family Homes, Classic Single Family Homes and Grand Townhomes are now selling.

To learn more about Beechtree, and for directions to the community, please visit BeechtreeMD.com

World-Class Golf Resort and Spa in Tucson

2008-04-11T06:02:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to announce that our hotel is currently undergoing a transformation that will provide a new level of luxury and service to our guests! We are eager to unveil the first phase of our transformation in Winter 2008.
Please view on our transformation page for exciting details.

http://www.omnihotels.com/Home/FindAHotel/TucsonNationalGolfResortAndSpa/Transformation.aspx

The Omni Tucson National Resort has it all - from its picturesque setting in the foothills of Tucson's Santa Catalina Mountains to the lush fairways of its 36-hole championship and desert-style golf courses. This 650-acre desert hotel is one of Tucson's finest spa and golf resorts. It boasts championship golf, a world-class spa, lighted tennis courts, two sparkling pools and four-diamond accommodations and suites.

The Omni Tucson National Resort was recently selected as one of the "75 Best Golf Resorts in North America" by Golf Digest. If you're looking for an unforgettable golf and spa resort in Arizona, we'll make your dreams come true. The Omni Tucson National Resort is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes from Tucson International Airport and 90 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

TROON GOLF TO MANAGE ROYAL DUNES GOLF CLUB

2008-04-11T04:06:00.001-04:00

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to announce it has been selected to manage Royal Dunes Golf Club, a private club surrounded by the natural landscape of the Sonoran Desert and located in Maricopa, Ariz.

Built in 2002, this Fred Couples and Schmidt-Curley-designed golf course was created in the tradition of some of the world’s most coveted courses. Royal Dunes’ focus has always been to provide their members and guests with the finest playing surfaces and the ultimate challenge for their game. The course is spread over 320 acres, using about twice the land of a typical golf course, which has been transformed from flat terrain into a magnificent landscape of towering mounds, hollowed valleys and deep, sand-faced bunkering. The design team also combined wide, receptive fairways and stands of native grasses to create a course that is a visual departure from the desert golf layouts typical of the area.

“We are excited to be involved with Royal Dunes Golf Club and believe that our management practices will contribute positively to the experience of the members and guests,” stated John Easterbrook, executive vice president, operations, Troon Golf.

Royal Dunes was designed to offer a unique playing opportunity to test players of all levels of expertise. From the tips, this dunes-style design offers even scratch golfers a game that demands precise shots from tee to green. Playing at lengths up to 7,500 yards down to 6,500 yards from the forward tees, the imaginative layout includes strategic bunker placement, generous landing areas and multi-level greens that are often mentioned among the best in the Southwest.

“Troon Golf is unquestionably the international leader in exclusive club management worldwide and we are excited to have them involved at Royal Dunes,” stated Richard Zacher, owner, Royal Dunes Golf Club. “The benefits they bring to our current members and their proven ability to help grow membership and increase revenues will be key components to our future success. Troon Golf’s expertise in operations, agronomy and marketing, coupled with their commitment to excellence in member and guest services, will take Royal Dunes to a whole new level.”

The club, which recently changed its policy to welcome female golfers, provides a relaxed and welcoming environment intended to serve an intimate membership that is serious and passionate about the game of golf. In its short history, Royal Dunes has already earned the reputation of a “true player’s course” that provides a pure golf experience.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Troon Golf is the world’s largest golf management company, overseeing operations at more than 195 courses located in 31 states and 31 countries. Additionally, 37 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; The Westin Turnberry Resort, Ayrshire, Scotland; The Clubs at St. James Plantation, Southport, N.C.; Troon North Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; Haig Point, Daufuskie Island, S.C.; Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Cancun, Mexico; and The Grove, London, England.