Golf clubs were originally made by hand by blacksmiths and woodworking artisans. Iron heads and putter heads were hand forged from carbon steel, hand hammered into their blade shapes, hand ground and hand stamped with the blacksmith’s maker’s marks. Woods were fashioned from hickory, oak and persimmon hardwoods, with brass and other metals attached for weight and durability.

There was a golden era of innovation in the 1920’s and 1930’s, brought on by the popularity of the game and the advent of the industrial revolution. Charles E. Billings, a distant relative, ran Billings and Spencer manufacturing in Hartford Connecticut, and forged all kinds of equipment using his innovative forging hammers, from Colt firearms, to Singer sewing machines, to his own brand of patented wrenches, hammers, knives and other tools. And innovative golf clubs.

The large-scale forging hammers allowed C.E. Billings to forge irons with a tighter grain structure, more precision (and less waste) and greater consistency and tighter tolerances. He also developed a method of milling the score lines in innovative patterns, again aiding consistency over the older method of pressing in the grooves using a patterned die, which wasn’t always straight or even.  

And this milling improved the club’s quality, consistency and accuracy. Milling in those days was performed on what are called “manual mills” which are still used today, but in fewer and fewer numbers as they require vast skill, training and expertise to cut metal away from a raw block or billet of metal one step at a time, with one tool at a time, all controlled by a machinist operating the hand controls, often taking days to create one single golf club (usually putters). Manual mills are now replaced by more modern CNC Machining centers.  “CNC” is an anacronym for “Computer Numerical Control” where the milling machine (aka machining center) is controlled by a computer program, with great precision, repeatability and reliability.  

Computers now play a major role in the design phase of golf clubs as well. CAD, or Computer Aided Design, is now employed by the vast majority of equipment companies, with state-of-the-art software programs such as Solidworks, an industry standard in modeling programs. Once the designs are perfected and finalized, they are then converted into machining center programming using additional software such as Mastercam, which controls the machining operations via CAM or Computer Aided Manufacturing, to control the machining operations and tools to mill out the product from the stock materials. 

Today’s modern machining centers (including CNC Mills and CNC Lathes) can hold dozens of cutting tools, interchanged automatically, indexed and automatically checked for position and even wear, so numerous cutting operations can be performed with great precision and efficiency in a single setup or operation. 

Interchangeable pallets of stock materials allow multiple parts to be milled at one time, further increasing productivity and efficiency. And external robotic arms are also integrated and programmed to load and unload the parts and pallets with automatic doors, vise jaws, and start/stop commands and all the milling operations orchestrated by the CAM software programs. These programs and robotic tools increase capacity and decrease the costs of machine operators, and they work around the clock without the need for meals or breaks! 

Together these software and hardware systems make up “CAD/CAM” to design, create and manufacture today’s high-tech CNC milled golf club designs. 

Advancements in the machining centers also allow the mills to move the stock material in five different axis under or next to the cutting tools, versus three axis mills used previously. This allows more complex parts to be milled with less loading and unloading operations, and also increases the quality of the parts by reducing the incidences of mis-matched operations, operator error all while increasing efficiency, quality and productivity.  

MACHINE Putters are manufactured here in the DFW Metroplex using these state-of-the-art design and manufacturing processes, using Made in USA equipment such as Haas CNC machining centers, U.S.-sourced advanced materials such as 6-4 Titanium, super dense Tungsten and exotic materials such as hand-forged Damascus and Mokume Gane that are then CNC precision milled, marrying the ancient craft of hand forging and the precision of CNC milling. Intricate hand finishing helps soften the look and feel for the discerning eye and brings out the beauty and luster of the metals. 

Patented modular construction with interchangeable and adjustable components provide virtually endless fitting and customization options to suit each individual’s unique specifications, preferences, wants and needs.

By utilizing these advanced design, engineering and manufacturing technologies, we are able to offer more custom-fitting solutions and model, style, material, alignment and aesthetic options than any other brand, benefitting our customers with the very best in performance, look and feel … all improving confidence and enjoyment in their games, scoring and winning. 

Mill, Baby, Mill! Let the good times roll!  – Dave

About the author: David Billings is a 35-year golf industry veteran, has been credited with 19 U.S. and International Patents on his Golf Club designs and technology inventions, and is widely recognized for his pioneering designs, technologies and work in custom fitting and adjustable technologies. Billings’ golf club designs and technologies have been licensed by numerous brands, his companies’ putters have been used on tour by over 25 Hall-of-Fame players and celebrated in double-digit wins on all the major tours. Billings, a native Texan, is a graduate of the Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles and the Parsons School of Design. The SAM PuttLab and David Billings’ modern, high-tech and locally made MACHINE putters can be found, tested and fit by Travis Fussell at Integrity Golf Performance in Frisco Texas, by appointment. 

The post Golf Tech – Mill, Baby Mill! appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

VAQUERO CLUB

After several years atop the best country club category, Northwood Club was dethroned in 2025 by a previous titleholder. Vaquero Club’s course reopened last year after a herculean renovation that had as many zeroes as the average annual contract for an NFL superstar. Vaquero Club originally burst onto the Metroplex private club scene back in 2001. The Tom Fazio design was heralded as one of the area’s best, with its subtle elevation changes, massive dynamic bunkers and diabolical green complexes. 

A little over two decades later, the decision was made to renovate the golf course to eliminate some of its massive bunkers, rebuild every green, and reroute some holes to further enhance playability for members of all skill levels. Cue course architect Andrew Green, who was tasked with taking an already great golf course and improving it in hopes of once again making Vaquero the most desirable club in the area. 

The final product is world-class in every detail, with new greens that feature systems to keep them tip-top during harsh weather spells in the winter and summer, and several reconfigured holes, including a brand-new opening par 5 which essentially is flipped to play in the opposite direction. Although there are more bunkers than before, the total acreage was reduced by almost half, from almost seven to a little more than four, making upkeep simpler for agronomy staffers and members alike. The smaller, more plentiful bunkering was instituted with the idea that players will be required to more carefully choose their strategy for certain holes, thus making play a more enjoyable and thoughtful experience. Greens are now more accessible with a variety of shots, introducing more creativity to chip and pitch shots. 

Overall, the new course has earned rave reviews, and our team was gobsmacked to see Green was able to make an already great golf course that much better. 

While the new course is fantastic, the amenities at Vaquero are truly what set it apart from any other club in the area. Yes, the more than a third-of-a-million-dollar initiation suggests everything about this club would be top of the food chain, but even at that hefty price, it is better than you could ever imagine. On-course comfort stations have more drink and snack options than a Buc-ee’s, the food in the restaurant would get rave reviews from Zagat’s, and the locker room and wellness amenities rival those of the Dallas Cowboys. 

Vaquero Club has always been great, but with a new shiny course and every nicety and comfort you could dream of, it is once again at the top of the mountain when it comes to lavish, luxurious clubs. 

BEST OVERALL GOLF CLUB

TRINITY FOREST GOLF CLUB

With Dallas National closed for a multi-million-dollar renovation, this year’s top spot for best overall golf club was up for grabs. Preston Trail has long been considered one of the overall best, and we don’t disagree. But in the end, Trinity Forest emerged among our staff as the leader in 2025. 

To say Trinity Forest is unique would be an understatement. Located in the heart of south Dallas, in the Great Trinity Forest, you would think based on the name that this would be a tree-lined beauty, with rolling topography and plenty of parkland architectural elements. Well, you would be completely wrong, as the team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw took this site and carved out one of the most impressive links-style courses in the country with no notable trees to speak of, that is, except the massive forest that surrounds the property on all sides. 

The design of the course holds up as one of the most interesting in the state, with its massive greens, native grasses and playful, artistic bunkering. Fairways at Trinity Forest are generous, which makes for simple sightlines off the tee, but each hole becomes a bit trickier as you near the green complexes. Some of the greens at Trinity Forest can be downright comical in places, but it really makes for a fun time. 

There are a couple of things that make Trinity Forest’s architecture special. One, there are a variety of ways you can play almost every shot from around the greens. They are receptive to bump-and-run shots, low-spinning chips, or even the putter. Each time you stand over something around the greens, you have to think and then execute. The second thing that makes Trinity Forest unlike many other courses is the pure variety. One staff member here noted that he used all 14 clubs in his bag the afternoon we played, and that he could not remember the last time that happened. In addition, since Trinity Forest last hosted the Byron Nelson tournament a few years ago, the course has been slightly re-routed, making for, in our opinion, a more enjoyable layout. 

The practice facility, although a short cart ride from the clubhouse, is world-class. It is double-sided, so if you want to practice with or against the wind, you have that option. There are covered bays, and staff is welcoming and available to provide water or clean your clubs when you switch to a new wrench. 

The clubhouse at Trinity Forest is modern, but immaculate. The locker room is comfortable and perfect to unwind and clean up after your round. Food is rock solid, and you are never more than a couple of feet away from some kind of snack, if you need a little sugar fix or something to hold you over until you make the turn. 

We also think Trinity Forest has one of the best logos in the game, so loading up on merch in their pro shop is a must, should you ever be fortunate enough to play there. 

Best Country Club

Platinum Category • $150,000 and up

Northwood Club

Brook Hollow Golf Club 

Dallas Country Club

Shady Oaks Country Club 

Northwood Club had held our top spot for the last several years. We have always said that to be the champ, you needed to beat the champ, and Vaquero just edged Northwood out in 2025. Northwood is still a fantastic overall club, with a golf course that will go toe-to-toe with any other at the top of our list. In fact, if we could choose one course to play over and over again, we all agree Northwood would likely be our choice. Northwood admittedly wants to upgrade its club and amenities, as members recently approved a whopping budget to build a new clubhouse as well as renovate the pool, fitness center and other perks. We can’t wait to follow the progress as they embark on their journey. 

Northwood Club

Brook Hollow Golf Club might have the best overall architectural elements of any course in Dallas. Although it has undergone many updates and changes over the years, you still get the bones and feel of the original A.W. Tillinghast design, and for architecture purists, there is nothing like it. The thought-provoking shots and playful green complexes will challenge your game at every turn, while still allowing mid-handicappers to enjoy this parkland-style layout. The par-5 15th hole has a cap-tip to Pine Valley’s “Hell’s Half Acre,” with a massive great hazard that must be navigated. The clubhouse is sublime, with an old-school feel that offers modern amenities. This is a club for the upper crust and a true one-of-a-kind experience. Should you ever be lucky enough to be invited to play, drop everything and do so. 

Brook Hollow Country Club

It’s hard to explain just how special Dallas Country Club is. It is truly the elite of the elite in the most affluent part of the city. Nestled in Highland Park right along the banks of Turtle Creek, this golf course exudes wealth and power with every twist and turn. The clubhouse is one of the finest in the state, and you will routinely see the absolute upper crust of Dallasites dining in its magnificent restaurant. There are finer courses, architecturally speaking, but for the total package, DCC is second to none. 

Shady Oaks Country Club has been the gold standard for clubs in Fort Worth for many years. Ben Hogan spent much of his time at Shady. So much so that there is a bronze statue of his shag bag and clubs in a spot where he used to hit balls into the prevailing south winds to refine his notoriously remarkable ball striking. The course reopened after a Geoff Ogilvy renovation in 2020 and is still one of the best overall courses you will find in the area. The par-3 fifth is one of the best one-shot holes in DFW, playing from the highest point on property across a deep valley to an elevated, bunker-surrounded putting surface. The “Little Nine” par-3 course at the center of the property is arguably the best short course in the state, and the clubhouse is chock-full of every nicety you could ever desire as a member. Though Colonial has closed some ground since its Gil Hanse course renovation, Shady Oaks CC remains as Fort Worth’s best. 

Best Country Club

Elite Category • $100,000 – $150,000

Royal Oaks Country Club 

Colonial Country Club

Bent Tree Golf Club 

Lakewood Country Club

Royal Oaks Country Club is one of Dallas’ finest clubs. The course was renovated in 2023 by renowned architect Chet Williams, and feedback from members has been great. The course features a fun layout that is scorable if you’re playing well and won’t penalize you too much if you’re having an off day. It offers everything you could ever want in a membership, including access to one of the most decorated instructors on the planet in Randy Smith. It’s also the home course to his most decorated student, two-time Masters champ and Olympic gold medalist, Scottie Scheffler. 

Colonial Country Club finished its complete Gil Hanse overhaul of the course just before last year’s Charles Schwab Challenge. Tour pros and members gave the new Colonial rave reviews from top to bottom, with more playable options around the greens now that many have been lowered closer to ground level. That’s not to say it’s an easier Colonial, as some yardage was also added to beef up this parkland-style layout. Updates to the clubhouse are underway now and expected to be complete later in the year. With the new course and work being done to modernize the clubhouse, Colonial is forging ahead and figures to be one of the top clubs in DFW for years to come. 

As the arms race between Metroplex clubs continues, Bent Tree Country Club wanted to get in on the action. They are eyeing a full course renovation to go with the 66,000 square-foot new clubhouse that was completed a couple of years ago. We are very interested in what will be done to update the course, but for us, the clubhouse is what makes Bent Tree spectacular. This Hill Country-inspired space offers multiple restaurant and meeting spaces, ballrooms, golf shop, locker rooms, golf simulators and one of the best fitness studios we’ve ever seen. Bent Tree is the total package, and with a renovated 18 on the way, they could see a jump in coming years. 

Speaking of that arms race, Lakewood Country Club is another Dallas landmark club preparing to renovate its course. After some exterior renovations that are nearing completion, mainly to the brick wall and sign outside the club, a new underground parking garage is planned to begin construction in April, followed by a full course renovation beginning just after Labor Day. Andrew Green, the architect who is spearheading the renovation, has been recognized as a top-5 renovation expert by Golf Digest. This has the makings of something special. Stay tuned. 

Best Country Club 

First Class Category • $60,000–$100,000

Gleneagles Country Club

Stonebriar Country Club

The Nelson Golf & Sports Club 

River Crest Country Club 

Dallas Athletic Club

Ridglea Country Club 

Gleneagles Country Club features two superb courses, the King’s Course and the Queen’s Course. Both courses are really fun, with interesting architectural elements that will challenge the novice or the experienced player. Amenities are top tier, with a massive clubhouse, great family pool, huge practice area, fitness center, tennis, pickleball and multiple dining options. It’s perfect for families in the Plano area or for those looking to host a top-notch corporate or charity tournament. 

Gleneagles Country Club

With two courses at Stonebriar Country Club, the Country Club Course and the Fazio Course, this is a top-of-the-food-chain Invited property. The Country Club layout is a more user-friendly, classic design, while the Fazio … well, is a Tom Fazio. Both are fun, but the Fazio is far more demanding, which makes this a great club for those who want a relaxed round or the ultimate challenge. Take a moment to find the Men’s grill while you’re there … it’s speakeasy-ish and really nice.  

The Nelson Golf & Sports Club is still one of the top-notch overall properties in the Metroplex. Though it no longer holds the cachet of hosting the Nelson, the consistent dedication from management to update the facilities keeps this as one of the better options on our list. The TPC Course is a tough customer, while the Cottonwood course is a more user-friendly experience. The fitness facilities are world-class, and recent updates to the patio area and pool have the Nelson buzzing with Ritz-Carlton hotel guests and members alike. 

The Nelson Golf & Sports Club

River Crest Country Club is a lesser-known club in Fort Worth. Located just a few miles from Downtown Cowtown, it doesn’t get the accolades of Shady Oaks or Colonial, but the course and club are both every bit as fun. The 18-hole par-70 layout plays just north of 6,500 yards, which is short by today’s standards, but the perfectly manicured, slick greens will offer plenty of challenge for your flat-stick. And who knows? You might just see a celebrity or two on property, as scenes from Taylor Sheridan’s Landman were shot at River Crest last spring. 

With all the great clubs in Dallas, Dallas Athletic Club sometimes flies under the radar. DAC has two courses, and the Gold Course underwent a renovation just last year. Both courses are fun to play, and they also offer a great short game area to enhance your wedges. The resort-style pool overlooks the Blue Course and buzzes with activity all summer. This is a great club for young executives with families that are looking for a retreat with everything from golf and tennis to fitness classes and junior programs.  

Like DAC in Dallas, Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth is another property that can often go overlooked. Ridglea offers a pair of courses, the North and the South, and though they aren’t located together (the South Course is about four miles away), both offer unique challenges. The South Course offers some of the best pace of play anywhere in DFW, and the clubhouse is wide open and offers a great vibe. The North Course is equally fun, with great greens and tree-framed fairways. Ridglea also boasts a great pool, fitness center and racquet sports. 

Best Country Club 

Mid-Priced Category • $20,000–$60,000

Las Colinas Country Club

The Lakes at Castle Hills

The Clubs at Stonebridge Ranch 

Canyon Creek Country Club

Denton Country Club

Trophy Club Country Club

The Clubs of Prestonwood

Heath Golf & Yacht Club

Although Las Colinas Country Club will no longer host the Invited Celebrity Classic, this club is still one of the most member-friendly in the area. LCCC offers great conditions, some challenging par 4s and a great finishing par 5. The clubhouse, locker rooms and pool areas are perfect for families, and you just might be able to find a card game once your round of golf is complete. Las Colinas has it all and has become a great overall value in the Invited stable of properties.

Las Colinas Country Club  

The Lakes at Castle Hills is another wonderful value for those around Lewisville, Carrollton, The Colony, or even Plano and Frisco. This course went fully private back in 2014, and over the last decade it has really settled in and thrived with a great membership that loves their golf. This course is a real challenge, but good players are certainly capable of scoring, and with multiple tee options, it can be as tough as you want to make it. The resort-style pool, accompanied by a recent 19th Hole and patio renovation, really have Castle Hills shining bright. 

The Lakes at Castle Hills

The Clubs at Stonebridge Ranch has all the bells and whistles for both young executives and longtime members alike. After its Saddleback nine-hole renovation, the Cimarron Course (holes 10-18) is now open after a full renovation to greens, bunkers, fairways, irrigation systems and practice facilities. The next phase will see an update to the Chisolm (another nine holes), which will completely unify these three nines into a championship-style golf experience. On its website, they say they are “turning greens into dreams,” and we would agree. Stonebridge is a dream for its great courses, amenities and overall value. 

Canyon Creek Country Club is a Press Maxwell original that has seen some renovations over the years while still maintaining plenty of the Maxwell charm and demand. The waterfall on the 18th hole is a visual delight as you finish. Three swimming pools, including an adults-only option, make this a wonderful club for the family or some adult relaxation time. The recently renovated pool deck and cabanas are available to enhance the experience. 

Denton Country Club is a great option for those on the north side of the Metroplex. Denton offers rolling topography throughout its 18-hole layout, with beautifully tree-lined holes that frame the course and fit almost any eye. The clubhouse is stately with fine dining, and members also enjoy the full array of club amenities like tennis, pickleball, fitness center and pool with umbrella-shaded lounge areas. It is undoubtedly one of the most underrated clubs on our list year after year, and at this initiation and dues, it should be considered a real value.

Trophy Club Country Club is a great property in the Invited portfolio that offers a pair of courses. The Hogan and the Whitworth courses are both worthy and fun to play. In fact, the Hogan is Ben Hogan’s lone course design, so that alone is worth the price of admission. There is a great short game area and one of the largest practice putting greens anywhere to lock in your wand and make sure you aren’t losing strokes on the greens. The pool is great, and they even have an indoor golf simulator. Trophy Club offers it all, and with this total package, it’s a wonderful value. 

The Clubs of Prestonwood is another Invited property and has a pair of courses. The Hills is a tree-lined beauty that is truly fun to play. The Creek has some scenic views of White Rock Creek and some interesting architectural elements, making it interesting but quirky. As with most Invited properties, Prestonwood offers a fitness center, racquet sports and pool and plenty of dining options. They also offer their “Crush It” program for juniors, which stands for Confidence, Respect, Understanding, Self-discipline, Hard work, Integrity and Talent. 

Heath Golf & Yacht Club is still one of the newer clubs in the area, and it is a bit of a mystery to those who aren’t living in that area. Heath sits on Lake Ray Hubbard and offers members a multitude of activities with its resort-style pool, youthful vibe and marina next to the clubhouse. Although the course doesn’t feature any holes directly on the lake, there are some scenic views as you play. It’s an exciting development that has absolutely exploded with activity since it opened just a few years ago.  

Best Country Club

Executive Priced Category • $5,000–$20,000

Brookhaven Country Club 

Hackberry Creek Country Club

Rockwall Golf and Athletic Club 

Hurricane Creek Country Club

Diamond Oaks Country Club

The Retreat 

Walnut Creek Country Club

Oakmont Country Club

Brookhaven Country Club is another reasonably priced Invited club. With three courses, The Master’s, the Championship and the President’s, there is plenty of variety to test your game. Invited has really worked to promote Brookhaven as one of its most family-friendly clubs, with a massive pool constantly buzzing with activity over the summer and the Drive Zone, which is a Topgolf-powered outdoor entertainment center. 

Brookhaven Country Club

Hackberry Creek Country Club might be the most centrally located club in the Metroplex. It’s no more than about 30 minutes from downtown Fort Worth and only about 20 minutes from downtown Dallas, making this convenient for young executives who might want to host clients from all corners of DFW. The course was designed by the great Byron Nelson and features a wild par-5 finishing hole that plays back across Hackberry Creek for players’ second or third shot. Craft 11 Restaurant offers dynamite fare, like a lobster grilled cheese or Peruvian scallops, making it a great dining experience before or after your round. 

Rockwall Golf and Athletic Club is another one of our favorite underrated clubs out east. Course conditions are great, greens run pure, and there are some great lake views along the way. New clubhouse construction is planned for this summer, which will only add to its great atmosphere. Members are welcoming and friendly at Rockwall, making this a great option for anyone in that area. 

Keep your eyes on Hurricane Creek Country Club over the next couple of years. This once-rural club is now seeing a good bit of development crawling toward it. With all the activity, Hurricane is striking while the iron is hot with a complete course renovation by Beau Welling. Welling, known for many other projects including Fields Ranch West and the upcoming Bluejack Ranch development in Aledo, is a perfect designer for the updated course at Hurricane Creek.  The course is set to close in November and be down for a full year. If you live in that area, you might want to take advantage of this initiation while you can, because we can guarantee an increase when it reopens in 2026. 

Diamond Oaks Country Club might be the best overall value in North Texas. As prices for clubs continue to skyrocket, Diamond Oaks has remained a great entry-level club, even though the golf course and overall vibe doesn’t feel entry level. A renovation of the clubhouse a couple of years ago has breathed life into this almost 65-year-old club, with a 19th hole buzzing with activity and a card room where you can almost always find a game. 

The Retreat is a great resort-like property down in Cleburne. It’s a bit of a hike from the center of the Metroplex, but property owners there rave about the course conditions and the fun amenities they get with membership. It’s relatively affordable to join, but you must own property there to get those dues.  

Walnut Creek Country Club offers a pair of courses, the Oak and the Pecan. Both offer plenty of scoring chances with some challenge sprinkled in. If you are south of DFW, say in Arlington, Mansfield or Midlothian, this is a viable, affordable option that offers plenty of golf, a great atmosphere for families and a more relaxed feel. You’re never too far away from a fun round and an ice-cold beer among friends at Walnut Creek. 

Oakmont Country Club in Corinth not only has a nifty golf course designed by Don January and Roger Packard, it also features a great clubhouse that overlooks the first and 10th tee boxes and has a great wraparound deck which provides great views. Oakmont also offers the Game On! program, which provides new or players returning to the game to learn with structure to maximize their fun on the course. 

Best Country Club

Exceptional Value Category • Under $5,000

Eldorado Country Club

Shady Valley Country Club

Eldorado Country Club is another club planning on updating some amenities and its course in 2025. A green renovation is planned to begin in just a few weeks and should be completed by early fall. They are also adding a new pool bar and some stand-alone pickleball courts that will enhance their racquet sports program. Eldorado is a great club for those in the McKinney, and it will likely vault out of this category in 2026. 

El Dorado Country Club

Since Rolling Hills shut down, Shady Valley Country Club is now the only country club option in Arlington. Shady Valley still has a loyal membership, many of whom have been around for a while. It is also a great starter club for young execs who want fun golf and a place to take the family for some country club fun. The course won’t change your life by any stretch, but it is playable, and very walkable if you want to get out and get some exercise. Overall, for the price point, Shady Valley is a solid option.  

Best Golf Club

Platinum Category • Over $150,000

Preston Trail Golf Club

Maridoe Golf Club 

Preston Trail Golf Club has long been one of the most exclusive clubs in Dallas. The six-figure initiation and elite membership group make this one of the most desired clubs in the entire state. The course is immaculate, the food and beverage programs are hard to beat, and the members rave about pace of play and the relaxed on-course experience. Preston Trail is as tough an invite to get as anywhere in the country. 

Maridoe Golf Club is now on more radars than ever after hosting the 2024 LIV Dallas Team Championship. We must admit, for several years, we felt Maridoe was simply too difficult to justify the membership cost. However, the course has softened a bit, and after some re-routing, the layout is a lot more palatable for the average player. We finally get it. Maridoe is a place where the elite love to play because it’s a true test, but it’s also a place that really focuses on one thing … golf. We respect that. 

Maridoe Golf Club

Best Golf Club 

Elite Category • $50,000–$100,000

TPC Craig Ranch

Timarron Country Club

Add TPC Craig Ranch to the list of courses with planned updates in 2025. The home of the CJ CUP Byron Nelson plans to shut down after this year’s champion is crowned to do some major work to the course. This will include extensive sod work, irrigation updates and other changes. Expect to see a fresh new Craig Ranch for the 2026 Nelson. 

TPC Craig Ranch

Southlake’s Timarron Country Club is convenient to most anywhere in the area, making it another Invited course that is perfect for corporate memberships or those in the bustling Southlake/Westlake area. Champs 52 is a great scratch kitchen (we recommend the flatbread pizza), and the club offers all the perks you would expect from an Invited property. 

Best Golf Club 

First Class Category • $10,000–$50,000

Gentle Creek Golf Club

Lantana Golf Club

Gentle Creek Golf Club, managed by Arcis Golf, has been updated and improved in a remarkable way over the last several years. The course is fantastic, with interesting routing and dynamic elements throughout the round, highlighted by a gorgeous par-3 ninth hole over water. Some might make the case Gentle Creek is D.A. Weibring’s best design work in the area. And the clubhouse, which was updated last year, is a breath of fresh air. 

Another of Arcis Golf’s private holdings, Lantana Golf Club, was designed by Jay and Carter Morrish, and has always been one of the most economical, friendly clubs you could ever belong to. The course rolls along tree-lined terrain, with holes framed beautifully from opening tee shot to final putt. It also offers a great clubhouse, with one of the nicest bar areas that is consistently bathed in sunlight with its large windows throughout. Don’t believe us, take the virtual tour on the website to see for yourself. In our opinion, Lantana is a steal at their current initiation and dues. 

Not Rated for 2025

Dallas National Golf Club

Mira Vista Country Club 

Dallas National Golf Club is in the middle of a massive course renovation to the tune of a rumored $30 million. We are pumped to see the new golf course and changes. It was spectacular before, and we can only imagine how great it will be once the changes are complete later in the year. National will be tough to beat for the top spot as best golf club in 2026. 

Dallas National Golf Club

Mira Vista Country Club has always been a low-key fun golf course. At present, they are working on renovating the entire 18-hole layout, and early returns look great. We have been following the renovation on social media, which they update regularly, and we’re excited to see what the new Mira Vista will look like. We only hope they don’t renovate anything about the recipe for that locker room milkshake. 

The post Cover Story – Best of Private Golf 2025 appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Long before Yellowstone ever made its television debut, Arthur Blank, the co-founder of Home Depot, the owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC, Atlanta Drive GC of the TGL and PGA Tour Superstore, visited the area frequently, fell in love with Mountain Sky and eventually purchased it in 2001. Blank’s love for the game of golf is well known, and he added Rising Sun at the base of the property just a decade later. 

The ranch has been around in some form since 1866. Nelson Story, a frontiersman, once purchased 1,000 longhorns in Texas and drove them to the Montana territory that same year. This story eventually became the premise for the novel Lonesome Dove. In 1919 the property became a sheep operation before turning into the Ox Yoke Ranch in 1929. It remained the Ox Yoke until 1977, when it became the Rising Sun Ranch. Just two years later in 1979, it was sold to Dan Brutger, a contractor and builder who saw the potential in the property. Brutger changed the name to Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, updated the cabins and added new construction and infrastructure before his son Alan took over operations, making it more akin to what we see today. In 2001, the Brutger family sold Mountain Sky to Mr. Blank, who once again saw this opportunity to improve facilities and provide additional luxuries and activities for families to enjoy. 

Nestled a little more than an hour from Bozeman’s airport, Mountain Sky is one of the most unique overall vacation experiences in the entire nation. Make no mistake, this is not a resort. This is an active, working dude ranch with all the trimmings. Throughout the course of your stay, you will see Cowboys actively working, riding horses and maintaining the property. It’s their job, and they are all very proficient at what they do. Your stay at Mountain Sky offers a little taste of this without having to clean stalls, saddle horses or repair barbed wire fences … oh, and did I mention the golf? 

Mountain Sky offers weeklong stays during peak season and shorter stays during shoulder season. Once on property, activities like golf, sporting clays, ropes course, hiking and horseback experiences are included in the rate for your stay. Meals and gratuity are also part of your package, but alcohol and more extravagant outings, like a trip to Yellowstone National Park, which is about 45 minutes away, can be added a la carte. 

If I had to describe the accommodations at Mountain Sky, I would say luxurious rustic. I know that seems like an oxymoron, but I believe that is the best way to frame it. Some of the cabins date back to the early days of the ranch in the 1920s, but you would never know it. All cabins on property have been meticulously updated to provide maximum comfort and premium views during your adventure at Mountain Sky. You can choose from one-, two- and three-bedroom options to maximize space and comfort for you and your party. 

Since guests arrive and leave at the same time, you get to know names and faces while you’re there. Everyone staying for that week has a photo taken upon arrival, which is then placed on a bulletin board in the main cabin. You begin to learn names and faces before you ever meet them, so it’s easy to get to know those who are staying on property with you. After a day or two, you begin to call others by name, and it makes enjoying the views and dinners with fellow guests much more comfortable. And as for those activities, there are sign-up sheets next to the photos, so if you want to do the sunrise hike, just add your name to the list and then take a look at the other names and match them to a face that will be joining you. 

There is one nugget that you need to be prepared for while you’re visiting Mountain Sky, and that is the lack of technology. The main lodge building has Wi-Fi, but the guest cabins do not. There is only one TV on the whole property, and it is located at the base of the mountain in the golf pro shop. You are truly off the grid at Mountain Sky, as cell phones will drop service once you begin the ascent up the mountain. If you plan on the full week, don’t expect to get any work done, scroll social media when you wake up or watch your favorite team play in the evenings. It can also be tough to check in with relatives unless you plan on a trip down the mountain every day. At face value, this might seem like a pain in the rear, but in an era where everyone is constantly connected to their device, it is a truly refreshing change of pace. Although your phone won’t be able to make calls or send texts, be sure to keep it handy, because I promise you will take a hundred photos a day. 

The Rising Sun golf course is simply stunning. As you enter the property, it’s hard to recognize anything that resembles a place where you would find 18 holes. The usual brilliant emerald green grasses that accompany most properties that boast a course are camouflaged among the rolling Paradise Valley meadows, sagebrush and towering pines. As you gently climb in elevation from the main highway, you reach the clubhouse. It’s not your standard prodigious clubhouse, as the number of rounds Rising Sun sees annually doesn’t require a lot of square footage for guests. There is a small pro shop with some gear and a little sunroom to stock up on some snacks or drinks before you begin. 

Most days at Rising Sun, the number of grounds crew members outnumber the players on this 18-hole Johnny Miller design. When you think of some of the most prestigious, high-end golf clubs on the face of the Earth, they can see between 5,000 and 10,000 rounds per year. I would be shocked if Rising Sun gets more than a couple thousand annually. This is a true, choose-your-own-adventure golf outing. In addition to their extraordinary driving range, which offers views not to be believed, they also have a short course, which features a handful of greens and boxes with three sets of tees to maximize your creativity. 

The 18 holes at Rising Sun are astonishing. The opening nine winds and weaves along the gently rolling terrain of Paradise Valley, offering views of the Absaroka and Gallatin mountains and utilizing meandering creeks to provide both beauty and challenge. The course begins to climb on the inward nine to an unforgettable postcard finish. The final four holes are right up there with the most picturesque finishes anywhere on this planet. 

If you aren’t wanting to play 18, that’s fine. Want to play the final four holes three times? Go for it. Only want to play nine? You bet. There are so few players utilizing the course on any given day, you can pretty well do what you like. I can almost guarantee you won’t find another course in the country that offers this combination of awe-inspiring holes coupled with the freedom to engage them however you see fit. Every hole is a postcard, and the more shots you hit, the less you care about your score and the more you find yourself immersed in the surrounding nature scape. 

Horseback riding is a must for your adventure to Mountain Sky. Even having been born and raised here, I am embarrassed to say this was my first time riding a horse. I wouldn’t say I was scared for my first time, but I was a little anxious. My mount was named SoCo, short for Southern Comfort. SoCo is a big horse but wasn’t intimidating to ride in the least. He was great with commands and experienced. Short of a couple corrections when he wanted to stop and graze, SoCo was a joy to ride. 

The trail we embarked on was a climb to begin, then a jaunt across the tops of plateaued western wheatgrass meadows followed by a descent down into a tree canopy-covered creek bed. Each stanza of the ride was wondrous as you take in the natural, untouched beauty of the terrain, all while sauntering along atop your mighty steed. 

With over 200 horses on property and the guidance of wranglers like Jack and Jordan, who trot along with you and assist with your ride, this experience is one I will remember for a lifetime. This having been my first time on horseback, I fear it ruined me for any potential rides in the future. That is, unless I make it back to Mountain Sky for another ride atop SoCo. 

Mountain Sky offers lunch and dinner rides that are easy and worry-free. Or if you want to get the full ranch hand education, try their four-hour cattle drive, which will provide a first-person point of view on how a real cowboy makes a living. 

Speaking of lunch and dinner … Mountain Sky does their dining a little different from most other resorts or ranches you might visit. Breakfast is served each morning buffet style, and as you dine, someone with guest services comes by and asks what you would prefer for dinner. For example, you might have the choice of bison tenderloin or Tasman salmon (there is also a vegetarian option) that gets paired with a salad course, a side and a dessert. The options are different each night and are all equally well prepared, fresh and creative. An hour before dinner, in the saloon, beverages and hors d’oeuvres are served before the dinner bell rings. Dinners are served at the same time, and you dine with all the other guests on property. 

After dinner, feel free to head back to the saloon where Kaylee and Luke will sling some yellow jackets (Coors original) or some signature cocktails your way. By this time, the sun has usually set, but you can still mosey out to the large patio and take in the serenity of the cool evenings and look at one of the most impressive night skies I have ever been fortunate enough to see. I’ll tell you this, they don’t call it “Big Sky Country” for nothing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the wranglers playing an impromptu acoustic set with his guitar as you sit fireside. 

If it’s pampering you require, Mountain Sky has one of the finest wellness centers you will find anywhere. Guests arrive 15 minutes early to rinse off, preventing any clogging of pores during treatment. A great view of Emigrant Peak awaits as visitors are prepared for any number of treatments with herbal tea or a warm neck wrap. Once done with your treatment, don’t forget to check out the sauna or steam room. 

There is also the Grotto, which is one of the most unique spa features I have seen over the years. This hybrid sauna/hot tub/relaxation therapy room is perfect for some solitude and a soak. There are a handful of chaise lounge chairs next to a four-foot-deep hot tub. The wooden walls add to the ambiance, and a fireplace along the wall in front of the tub adds another relaxation element. In a small refrigerator just a few feet away are plenty of scented, chilled towels to help you cool off if you get a bit too steamy. It’s a perfect place to continue a day of pampering after your massage. 

There is an outdoor pool and spa as well; both come with a side of serenity and surrounding mountain and ranch views. When it comes to the ultimate in rest and relaxation, the spa and wellness center at Mountain Sky is second to none. 

If you enjoy a good workout, don’t forget about Mountain Sky’s fitness center. Cardio equipment, free weights, a dual cable crossover system and medicine balls will keep you in tip-top shape for your daily hikes, golf or rides while you’re on property. 

In addition to Mountain Sky, AMB West is in current development on another project at Dome Mountain. Just south of Mountain Sky, this addition to the Blank portfolio will sit near the Yellowstone River and offer 20 guest cabins, main lodge, restaurant, bar pool and other shared amenities. This project is set to open sometime in mid-2026 and will offer another option in the area for a luxurious stay in Paradise Valley. 

Mountain Sky Guest Ranch is one of the most all-encompassing adventures one could imagine. There is so much to do your week will sprint by. And not only that, but the backdrop for your activities is also one that can must be experienced to be understood. Despite taking a couple hundred photos while there, none of them fully do Montana’s abundance of natural beauty justice. It is one of the few places I have been that actually needs to be seen in person to fully get it. 

Customer service at Mountain Sky is as good as anywhere I have ever seen. Staff members are well versed in all aspects of the ranch and can offer recommendations on activities from day to day. There is almost no limit to what you can do, as I never heard a guest services member of the Mountain Sky team say “No, we can’t do that” while I was on their watch. 

Mountain Sky Guest Ranch will capture your imagination like nowhere else I have ever been. Everywhere you look you see smiling faces. I believe nature can do that. Nature can heal us from the constant battle with our concrete jungles. There is something about seeing the stars scattered across a huge black sky, riding a horse as our forefathers did, and there is something genteel about putting down your phone and talking to someone you’ve never met before while forging a bond in the presence of that kind of natural beauty. Mountain Sky offers that. The only thing I didn’t like about Mountain Sky is that ever since I left, I have been trying to figure out a way to get back.

For more information on Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, visit www.mountainsky.com

The post Travel – Mountain Sky Guest Ranch appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Located about 90 minutes east of Atlanta in the Oconee National Forest, this sprawling property offers world-class golf, a 19,000-acre lake, some of the most gorgeous homes you will ever see, fine dining, and a multitude of options for your stay, including a Ritz Carlton hotel. 

Travel is simple from Dallas, as there are plenty of flights to Atlanta daily, which, unlike some more remote resorts, offers plenty of options getting there fast. Once in Atlanta, a quick car or shuttle rental has you on property in just over an hour. This means it’s easy to travel in the morning, make it to Reynolds and tee it up in the same day if you so choose. If you want a more relaxed travel day, you can fly in, take your time getting to the resort and then find another activity for the afternoon, or simply explore and relax before you dive into the golf. 

As you retreat into Reynolds, you quickly realize just how expansive the piece of real estate is. Seven golf courses (including the newest Richland Course) a bevy of options for your stay, dining, their Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds, all nestled near the beautiful lake, where you can boat, fish, paddleboard or kayak. Your options for fun in the sun are endless at Reynolds. 

The Accommodations

There are scores of options when it comes to your accommodations at Reynolds. Whether you are looking for a family retreat, a golf trip with your friends, or a romantic getaway, you won’t be disappointed by a lack of options. 

For starters, there is the world-renowned Ritz-Carlton. If you have ever been fortunate enough to stay at a Ritz-Carlton property, then I need not say more. But if you have yet to see one of these majestic properties, then the Ritz at Lake Oconee is a wonderful place to amble into luxury accommodations at their finest. 

The Ritz-Carlton at Reynolds is the centerpiece to this community and is located lakeside to offer views as stunning as their guest rooms. You can choose something easy and straightforward like their 1 king resort view balcony rooms or go for something with a little more space like their Executive Suite. The single king is perfect for a swanky excursion with someone special, and the Executive Suite, which offers a king bed, sofa bed, and can come with a crib, is a great way to get the whole family settled for a few nights. 

Most would agree that any accommodations at a Ritz-Carlton are “signature,” but there are other places to hitch your wagon if you choose. A Lake House or Lakeside Cottage might be the way to go if you have a larger family or want the ultimate in luxury and privacy while you’re on property. 

The Landing Cottages are a perfect option for your next guy’s trip. With room for four per cottage, these offer plenty of square footage, a large open floor plan, and each person has their own single room and bathroom. I have to say, these are arguably the best accommodations our group has seen in almost 20 years taking golf trips all over the country. The Cottages are clean and located in the middle of the property, making it simple to get to and from your tee times. They are not more than a few minutes from a local grocery store, making securing provisions for your group simple and easy. Everything about the cottages just screams golf trip. We enjoyed them so much, one night on property, we decided to just order a whole bunch of pizzas and have a football-watching party rather than get off property for dinner and drinks. They are absolutely perfect for your next golf adventure. 

The Golf

As great as the accommodations are at Reynolds, golf is the main focal point. It is bold, beautiful and features multiple courses with architectural elements from some of the finest course designers in the world, each offering different challenges each day and course you play. While on property, we were able to play The Landing, The Oconee, The Preserve, The National and Great Waters. Each offers a different adventure that will test your full bag and keep you on your toes. It should be noted there are a couple other courses at Reynolds, bringing the grand total to seven. One is Creek Club, which is exclusively for members only, although if you know someone who knows someone, you might be able to secure a round there. There’s also the brand-new Richland, Tom Fazio’s newest design at Reynolds, which opened in October 2024. We were in town just a few weeks before Richland opened for play, but reviews over its first few months have been glowing. 

The Landing

The Landing was the first course ever constructed at Lake Oconee back in 1986. It would eventually be acquired by Reynolds in 2005 and was renovated in 2013. This Bob Cupp design weaves and winds through trees, offers stunning lake views and fun elevation changes throughout, making it one of the most interesting courses on the property. 

Cupp opens with a par 4, a par 5, and a par 3, each of which offer challenge before you begin your march toward the lake. No. 4 offers your first view of Lake Oconee as a backdrop to the green. A good tee shot down the right-center offers the best angle for your approach. Don’t miss left of this green, or you will need to re-load, although there are a couple of bunkers left of the putting surface that can catch balls before they meet their watery demise. 

No. 5 is one of the most fun holes at The Landing. A dogleg left with water all along that side, firing a hybrid or three-metal into the landing zone isn’t a bad play. This green, however, is the great equalizer, sloping severely from right to left toward the water; any balls that find the greenside bunker on the right will be almost impossible to keep on the green. Play to the right side with a wedge and let gravity work for you to find the middle of the green. 

After No. 5, the rest of the front retreats back into the pines and the stately homes surrounding this par-72 layout. No. 8 is another true beauty, with an elevated tee that falls into a fairway with bunkers on the left and a pond on the right. Finding the center of the green is paramount on approach, as there is a significant runoff to the right that presents a nasty up-and-down attempt. 

No. 11 is one of the best par 3s on the course that doesn’t feature water. It plays uphill to the narrow green, and at a muscular 203 yards, it can be very tough to judge which club to hit. Anything short will find a pair of deep bunkers set well below the green’s surface. Miss here and you will be faced with one of the toughest shots on the entire property. It’s a fantastic par 3, that nestles into a corner near where you might be renting a cottage for your stay. 

The final few holes at The Landing aren’t quite as scenic as some of the other layouts on property, but they offer opportunity to score, which is always a plus for any design. The 16th is a par 5 that offers a generous landing area off the tee and has no bunkers anywhere from tee to green. The putting surface can be a bit treacherous, with a large bowl in the middle that can make two-putts a challenge. 

No. 17 is a straightforward par 3 with a pair of pot bunkers that need to be avoided, but it plays just 160 yards, so it shouldn’t be much more than a short iron for most players. No. 18 is a short par 4, but water crosses the hole about 270 yards off the tee, which longer hitters can easily reach. The green sits slightly elevated but shouldn’t be anything more than a wedge with a good ball off the tee. Bunkers surround the green, so a precise wedge is required. 

The Oconee

Rees Jones, the acclaimed designer of The Oconee at Reynolds, has completed other notable projects like TPC Danzante Bay, Pinehurst No. 7, Cascata and The Golf Club of Houston’s Tournament Course. Jones was also the brains behind the Oconee Course at Reynolds, which has received awards for Best Courses in Each State from Golf Digest and Golf Week’s Best Resort Courses as recently as 2023. 

The Oconee is a tree-framed beauty that offers risk/reward holes at every turn, plenty of lake views and dynamic water features. Some of the notable holes include the par-3 fifth, which plays nearly 175 yards from the tips and requires a precise iron shot to cover a pond that can swallow anything short or right of the putting surface. It’s a beautiful first par 3 on this Jones’ layout. 

No. 9 is another majestic hole to round out the opening stretch. This par 4 offers a downhill tee shot that carries a meandering stream. Your first real look at the lake appears with the approach shot, giving you a preview of what you will see on the inward nine. The green butts up to the lake on the right, meaning any miss should be to the left, or you might be reaching in the bag for a new nugget. Back right pins are accessible with the left-to-right slope of the putting surface. 

No. 12, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful holes at Reynolds that doesn’t have a lake view. This par 4 features a landing area that has a stream that runs almost the entire length of the hole and then opens up into a pond just short and right of the green. Although it just plays 380 yards, a pinpoint tee shot is required, and Jones offers players the opportunity to be as conservative or aggressive as they choose. Sure, you can hit driver, but is it worth it?

The final pair of holes at The Oconee will challenge even the best ball strikers. At No. 17, players are faced with a long par 5. Longer hitters can take advantage of a speed slot that will add an additional 25-30 yards to their tee shots. The extra yardage can give players the chance to get home in two. The green is guarded by a large bunker on the left and a significant runoff into Lake Oconee over the back right. It’s another of Jones’ true risk/reward holes. 

The final hole at The Oconee might be one of the most challenging at Reynolds. Playing a muscular 481 from the plates, the tee ball must carry the lake and presents players the opportunity to take off as much as they are comfortable with. The approach doesn’t leave much room for error, as Lake Oconee is featured all down the left. It’s a hole where you really want to admire the scenery, but don’t lose focus, or you could be facing a big number to close. 

The National

The National is the first of two Tom Fazio courses at Reynolds. Fazio, the designer of hundreds of courses worldwide, including the great Dallas National here in the Metroplex, was tabbed to design The National in 2000, and recently completed his second course at Reynolds, called Richland. 

The National doesn’t offer the stunning lake views that some of the other courses feature, but the layout is all Fazio, with fun bunkering, native, wispy grasses in abundance, tall pines and plenty of water to navigate. The National definitely has that Augusta feel with its trundling terrain and whimsical green complexes. 

No. 6 is one of the best on the outward nine, playing at just over 550 yards. This three-shot par 5 offers a generous fairway off the tee, but twists and turns back to the right for your layup shot and then to a peninsula, kidney-shaped green which offers plenty of visual intimidation for a player’s third. 

If there is a single hole on The National that truly transports you to Alister MacKenzie’s Augusta National, it is the par-4 10th. This significantly downhill tee shot opens up the longer the tee shot travels and plays to a large green guarded by a single bunker short left. The pines lining the fairway from tee to green really offer a great Georgia feel. It’s a great golf hole to open the final nine at The National. 

As you wrap up your round at The National, you will meet one final test in the 462-yard par-4 18th. The hidden landing area also features a body of water on the right that can be reached by the longer hitters. Play to the left side of the fairway and be sure to choose enough club to carry both the bunkers and water on your approach. It’s a fun finishing hole to the Fazio gem. 

Great Waters

Of all the courses at Reynolds Lake Oconee, Great Waters offers the most stunning views. This Jack Nicklaus design offers a timeless look at golf architecture at its finest and will leave you walking off the 18th green wanting more. It’s a course that must be seen to fully understand its complexity and beauty. Of all the Nicklaus courses I have seen, it is right up there with the very best the Golden Bear has ever conceived. This is the signature layout at Reynolds, and from the opening tee shot, you can see why. Course conditions are immaculate, and the design, which debuted in 1992 and was restored in 2019, has withstood the test of time to delight golfers of all skill levels. 

From the back tees, Great Waters can tip at a whopping 7,400 yards, making this a true championship-caliber, par-72 test for even the most skilled players. 

The first few holes at Great Waters ease you though the pines with playful elevation changes, ponds, meandering tributaries and simply stunning local flora along the way. From the gorgeous par-5 second hole to the hard dogleg left with water guarding the green at No. 5, every hole is a photograph … a work of art, and at this point, the course hasn’t even begun to show off. 

No. 9 is where Nicklaus really begins to show his architectural genius on Great Waters. This par 4 that plays back to the water is a great challenge, especially on days where the breezes are up. Favoring the right center of the fairway is a must, but this offers a much tighter approach shot to a very narrow green. It can also lead to a hanging lie, as the fairway slopes right to left. If you get too cute, you could end up in the water, but there is a respite left of the green should you need a good place to miss. 

No. 11 is a drivable par 4, should you be bold enough to take on the narrow landing area. Finding the fairway with an iron or hybrid is a more conservative way to play this hole, as the green cuts back into the lake on three sides, and the serpentine green is one of the most challenging on the course. Hit the front left of the green when the pin is on the back right, and you will be faced with a putt that can be near 100 feet in length. It is the shortest par 4 on the course, but make no mistake, it can pack a punch. 

Of all the holes at Reynolds Lake Oconee, No. 12 at Great Waters might just be the most fun. This par 5 requires a carry over the corner of the lake and grove of pines. Unless you can hit a hard draw off the tee, you will have to challenge the corner of the water and the pine trees on the left. The fairway narrows as the hole begins to turn, climbing the hill to the left, so it can be easy to run tee shots through the fairway into the pine straw. The second shot, whether you are attempting to reach the green in two, or choose to lay up, is completely blind, which makes choosing a line tough if you haven’t played it before. A pair of bunkers sit on either side of the green, so be sure to avoid those to score. It’s a gorgeous hole and one of the best par 5s at Reynolds. 

More lake views appear behind the green at No. 13 which is a downhill par 4. The par-3 13th hole gives players one of the most complete looks at the lake while at Great Waters. Anything short or right of the green will drown, so play to miss in the collection area left and be very mindful of wind direction as you prepare to fire your iron into the green. 

As you turn for home, No. 16 presents players with one of the most challenging back-to-back shots on the inward nine. The tee shot must avoid pines both left and right, but finding the fairway is only half the battle. The approach, which even with a good tee shot can still be a mid-iron, will usually be fighting the breeze coming off the lake. And with nothing behind the green to block the wind, balls can routinely come up well short. But, hit one flush and you can send your approach long into the water. Left is also dead, as the lake comes into play there, as well. 

After a final par 3 that must carry more water, comes the final test of the day. No. 18 is a relatively short par 5, offering players one final chance to score. At just 495 yards, should you find the fairway, you could have a green light. But as is the theme for most of the back nine at Great Waters, the lake is eyeballing you the whole way in. Water left from tee to green eventually spills in front of the green complex. If you are sitting on a lead, you might consider laying up, but if you are playing from behind, you have an opportunity to be aggressive and try to make up a shot or two. It’s a wonderful final stanza at Great Waters. 

Nicklaus outdid himself with this design. It is challenging, yet playable for any skill level (when the appropriate tees are chosen) and offers some of the best course elements and views of any Nicklaus layout I have seen. If you can only play one course at Reynolds, be sure to make it Great Waters. 

The Activities

Of course, for the golfer, teeing it up is top priority, but at Reynolds, there is so much more to do and see, especially if you are traveling with family. There is an on-site spa at the Ritz-Carlton that offers massages and other treatments, seven outdoor pools, any of which are great for catching some rays with a beverage of your choice. They also offer pickleball, tennis, fitness classes, and 21 miles of hiking trails that will get you up close and personal with the Georgia pines and all the local animal life. 

The Sporting Grounds is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. They offer sporting clay shoots, archery, fishing outings and even a jeep off-road course. If you want a day away from the course, any of these activities is great for some stress relief and an afternoon of great entertainment. 

And you can’t complete your trip to Reynolds unless you can truly appreciate the massive lake that is the centerpiece of the development. Lake Oconee is over 19,000 acres of fun and endless possibilities, from the fishing just mentioned, to boating, jet skiing, kayaking or paddleboarding. You can inquire upon booking about any number of great experiences to add on to your stay and fantastic golf. 

The Dining

We have dedicated a lot of time to the golf at Reynolds, but in addition to the great accommodations, they offer some great dining, as well. On night one, we sauntered our way into Eighty8 Kitchen + Cocktails for some beverages and dinner after our round. It is perfect for some causal drinks in the bar or for a great dinner. In addition to an ice-cold beer or a Maple Ridge Old Fashioned, the pimento deviled eggs were a hit as an appetizer, and the crispy red snapper is hard to beat for a protein-packed meal that won’t fill you to the brim. Eighty8 also offers breakfast and brunch to fuel up pre-round. 

Overlook is another great option, especially if you are craving seafood. Their firecracker fried shrimp were gone almost as soon as they hit the table, and they offer a crisp and fresh wedge salad to work on before your meal. Offerings like grilled swordfish, grilled trout or pan-seared halibut all came out to the table, and each looked amazing. If you aren’t the seafood type, they also offer a great double smash burger, grilled pork chop and a 6 oz. tenderloin with truffle parmesan fries. Don’t forget to finish off your meal at Overlook with a blondie sundae or a slice of peanut butter pie. 

We also checked out Essê while on property, and it was another great culinary delight. The Szechuan shrimp were packed with chili oil flavor, and were so well received, we ordered another two plates for the table after the first two were devoured in less than five minutes. Crispy pork dumplings were also a great way to start the meal, served with some delicious Korean BBQ sauce. 

The grilled skirt steak was a popular choice among the group, served with smashed garlic potatoes, crispy onion straws, asparagus and some knee-buckling house-made steak sauce. The pan-seared salmon is another menu item we saw being brought out of the kitchen regularly, and those at our table who chose it, raved about it. Essê also offers any number of wines by the glass or bottle, plenty of beers to choose from and their own selection of signature cocktails. 

Final Thoughts

Reynolds Lake Oconee might not boast the same panache as some other highfalutin’ golf destinations you might have seen on social media like Bandon Dunes, Sand Valley or Pinehurst, but Reynolds definitely belongs in the conversation with those properties. For starters, it is very easy to get to. Flights aren’t crippling expensive, and you can travel and play in the same day, which is a huge plus for those who can’t spend five or six days away from work or family. There are also plenty of options for your stay, which can make this trip more economical. Of the resorts just mentioned, I would estimate that Reynolds comes in at half or less than half the price than any of the aforementioned properties. That makes it a more budget-friendly place compared to some of the other heavy hitters. If you are a trip planner, it should be added to your rotation or put on your list of places to see sooner rather than later. You won’t be disappointed. 

Reynolds Lake Oconee. Great golf, great accommodations, great friends, great fun. 

For more information on Reynolds Lake Oconee, please visit www.reynoldslakeoconee.com.

The post Travel – Reynolds Lake Oconee appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Everywhere you look, you see people on foot with their PGA Show lanyards and badges, heading to and from the show. Every sidewalk along International Drive is flooded with people. It’s a neat scene. When I say the area is flooded with people, I mean a LOT of people. There were an estimated 33,000 attendees, including industry professionals and representatives from almost 100 countries. According to the PGA of America, this was the largest show in 15 years. Of those 33,000, there were over 1,000 media members, including members of NBC and The Golf Channel, which broadcast live from the show each day. 

The whole thing is not only huge, but it’s a spectacle. On Wednesday morning, around 7:45 (doors officially opened at 8:30), there was a cover band playing in the main lobby near the entrance to the show, and there was even an artist speed painting a great golf-themed piece of artwork to watch as you prepared to head in. Around 8:00, ESPN’s Michael Collins took the stage as the emcee, introducing executives from the PGA of America, including new CEO Derek Sprague, who had some comments and then officially opened the show. There is a lot of pomp and circumstance, and there is a distinct buzz leading up to the start of the show.

At first sight, the number of booths is simply overwhelming. While it was basically what I was expecting, the sheer size of the exhibit hall is staggering, and knowing I would only be there for about eight hours, I hit the ground running. 

The Good

The PGA Show isn’t just for scoping out new merch and trying the latest equipment, although you could spend the whole week doing that, should you choose. For me, I enjoyed that aspect of the show, but I also really enjoyed connecting with friends in the industry and meeting new people. Sure, there are executives from the PGA of America, bigwigs from almost every country club in the United States, CEOs and executives from every major manufacturer on Earth, but for me, I really enjoyed talking to the little guys. The startup business owners who developed their own products with sweat and capital. I met lots of those types who are simply trying to get their ideas off the ground, and some of the stories were great to hear. Meeting new folks is a big part of the whole adventure, but connecting with friends I have met over the last 10 years was great, too. I saw everyone from City of Arlington Golf, a few guys from Invited Clubs and Arcis, many fellow writers who I have been on press trips with, and I even caught up with an old friend who moved to St. Louis a decade ago and wound up in the golf industry up there. 

One thing that becomes apparent very quickly at the PGA Show is the fact that golf is truly an international game. In just the first few minutes I was there, I heard people speaking Japanese, German, along with accents from Australia, the U.K. and Ireland. You will meet people from all over the world, and it’s pretty cool we all share the same passion for the game. 

The PGA Show runs like a Swiss Watch. There are shuttles that run every 15 minutes and make a continuous loop around to local hotels and bus stops. You are never more than a couple minutes away from catching one, should you need to go back to your hotel or are looking to get to the convention center. Everything is easy to find, and since there is so much to see, each badge has a unique QR code that can be scanned. At the end of the day, you get an email detailing all the companies who scanned your badge and all the companies you scanned. It keeps things very organized and makes it easy to reach out to those you want to work on doing business with. It’s genius. 

Speaking of the Orange County Convention Center, it is, without question, the largest I have ever seen. It offers 7,000,000 sq. ft. of total space and 2,100,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space. So, yeah, it’s MASSIVE. Despite that, there is plenty of signage and everything is very well organized, so it is easy to find your way around. 

As far as products go, there were a few that I found very intriguing. Sure, every manufacturer is on hand, and you can demo as much as you please. But I was only at the show for a little over 24 hours, so I didn’t have much time to demo new products. Mainly, it was a quick look and then move on. Of the new major brand equipment, I found the new Srixon irons, the new Callaway drivers and some of the Titleist gear to be most interesting. 

As I mentioned, the startup companies can be a goldmine for interesting additions to the golf equipment landscape. Of the new products I saw, there were a couple that stood out. I really enjoyed the Caddy Bar. This is a bracket system that attaches to your golf cart just above the dashboard and holds any number of accessories. You can have dual coolers, if you choose, a cooler and additional storage, a cooler and mobile device holder etc. For those who own their own cart, it would be perfect, and it would even be practical to attach to your cart before you play your local daily fee course. 

This next one is very simple, but also genius. The Swing Scribe is a handy notebook that allows players to write down course notes, swing thoughts, yardages and other strategic thoughts when you play. If you play the same course quite a bit, having these thoughts organized could be a game-changer. 

The Cadero golf grips are another product I found interesting. These grips originated in Tokyo by a company that also manufactured car tires. The grips are made with anti-slip materials, and incorporate a unique Pentagon Groove design that delivers exceptional feel and traction, as well as a multi-layer construction that promotes durability. They seem like they would be perfect for the hot Texas summers. 

Speaking of those hot summers, there are two more products that would also fall into the category of surviving Texas during the triple-digit heat. One, called Cool Spray, is a menthol-based body spray that is supposed to offer an instant cooling sensation. I didn’t try it, because it was actually pretty chilly in Orlando the week of the show. I plan to buy some and give it a whirl once it warms up. I will report back if it’s worthy. The other item, one that I found was one of the top items I demoed while at the convention center, is the Chalkless Grip Enhancer. I sweat when I play, and during the summer, I sweat A LOT. I often have to rotate gloves every couple of holes to ensure I can even grip the club. Chalkless is a powder that you rub into your hands that enhances your grip by more than 50 percent. I tried their demo at the show, and it was incredible. I will definitely be buying some when the weather warms up. 

Some of the major manufacturers have massive presences at the Show. Titleist, Callaway, Foot Joy, Cobra and TaylorMade have to spend hundreds of thousands on their setups, with huge signage, lots of representatives to answer questions, and the best new equipment. It is very interesting to see, and it can also be very overwhelming. 

I did see quite a few celebrities while I was there. Derek Jeter was there promoting his clothing brand Greatness Wins, and there were a lot of professional players roaming around. I personally saw Jim Furyk, Rich Beem and Matt Fitzpatrick. And, at one point, I saw rapper Ja Rule, who is an investor in the Atlanta team for the TGL. Long Drive phenom Kyle Berkshire was also there, along with the current world number one-ranked WLD competitor, Colton Casto. 

The Bad

One of the main reasons I went to this year’s show was to attend their Demo Day, which is the Tuesday before the show begins (the show itself runs Wednesday-Friday). Unfortunately, the weather was cold and rainy both Tuesday and Wednesday while I was in town. When I arrived, I went to collect my credential and immediately jumped on a shuttle to Orange County National, the venue for Demo Day. It took around 35 minutes to get there, but we did drive right through the heart of Disney World, so I got to see that. But once I arrived, I was a little disappointed in the turnout. Now, it was misty, overcast and the venue was muddy from the rains, so I am sure that was a major factor, but it did seem a little “meh.” Orange County National’s range is super cool, though, as it is a giant 500-yard circumference circle, meaning people are demoing clubs from all sides. I made a loop around, but I wasn’t looking to beat balls all afternoon and the weather was a mess, so it was a quick visit for me. I would definitely like to go back when the weather is nice, but this year was a wash. Also, most manufacturer tents were relatively small. I expected a bigger presence from Titleist, and TaylorMade wasn’t even there. Which I found to be odd. 

If you have sensory issues or get claustrophobic, the PGA Show can be a lot. As I mentioned, I was one of the first through the doors when the show opened Wednesday morning, so the first couple hours were relatively tame. But by around noon, there were so many people, even walking around became a challenge. No matter what you do, you feel like Barry Sanders juking and spinning to avoid people. But no matter how light on your feet you are, you are still going to bump into plenty as you try to navigate your way around. At the end of the day, I felt like I had been in a street fight. 

I was a little surprised at how few travel companies were there. As a writer, I am always angling to try to book my next golf adventure, but I was sad to see there weren’t a lot of resorts there to make contact with. 

Being an industry show, there are a lot of booths that offer things for country clubs and golf courses. For example, tee markers, range equipment, point-of-sale technologies, even course weather systems and robotic range pickers. Now, I wouldn’t necessarily call this “bad” per se, but that meant there was a whole section I had to navigate that really wasn’t in my wheelhouse. 

Again, labeling this as “bad” is probably not right, but there are a lot of products, especially in the new product section, that I would be shocked to see survive. I hate to say that, and I’m not going to name names, because oftentimes these people have a lot invested in their product; marketing and attending the PGA Show isn’t cheap. I would never wish failure on anyone (except the Philadelphia Eagles) but I can’t help but wonder what some of these people are thinking. 

The Interesting

For the first time ever, the PGA Show offered credentials to content creators and influencers. There was a special section to sign up just for them. There were 200 creators and influencers from 22 countries there. It is funny the disconnect between the older generation of attendees and the younger generation in attendance. For example, our President, Craig Rosengarden, was wandering by one booth and heard someone say Rory McIlroy was just there. Craig, head on a swivel, began scanning the crowd for the four-time major champ. Actually, Rory McIlroy was not in attendance, it was Rory BlakIlroy, an African American social media sensation who boasts over 40,000 followers on Instagram. I couldn’t help but giggle seeing the confusion on Craig’s face. Over the course of just a couple of days, I saw several of these creators on site, from Rory BlakIlroy to the DOD King, a creator who is famous for hitting driver off the deck in his videos. I even saw where the brains behind Zire Golf were there, although I’m not exactly sure who runs that account. Point being, golf YouTubers, Instagram creators and TikTok stars are becoming very prominent in the industry. 

The show isn’t just about connecting with those in the industry. It’s also a huge party. Bars and restaurants are packed in the evenings, as people cut loose with co-workers and clients. I regrettably didn’t get to stick around for this, but after the show closed Thursday evening there was a concert at the convention center featuring DJ Spencer Ludwig, Brian Vander Ark from The Verve Pipe, and Third Eye Blind. I love Third Eye Blind and would’ve loved to stick around for that. I may never forgive Craig for flying me home early. 

Overall, the PGA Show is a heck of a good time. I was able to attend a couple pre-parties the night before the show started, have a few drinks and catch up with some great colleagues. That part alone was worth the trip. I would love to go try the Demo Day again with better weather, and the show itself, although it’s a lot like drinking from a firehose, walking the almost 10 miles of aisles in the convention center was a blast. I can’t wait to go back. Hopefully this time, it will be for more than 26 hours. 

The post Cover Story – 2025 PGA Show appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

As you enter Cosm, you are immediately met with a venue that is part sports bar, part professional sports venue, and all state-of-the-art visuals. Cosm has several viewing options. First is The Hall. The Hall is an elevated sports bar taken to the max. High ceilings and a massive LED display take up an entire wall, taking your gameday-watching experience to the next level. This multi-view experience is perfect for an NCAA football Saturday or NFL Sunday, where you might be interested in keeping tabs on multiple games at once. 

The Deck is Cosm’s outdoor viewing experience. A terrace outside the top level makes for a great place to watch games during the beautiful spring months and would be a perfect place to catch some day baseball. Comfy seating and an outdoor bar make this a great place to meet up for some afternoon cocktails with friends or colleagues, even if there isn’t a game you are specifically wanting to watch. Cosm is open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday – Friday. 

Both of the previous options are fantastic for a great game-watching experience, but if you want the ultimate, then you absolutely must see The Dome. The Dome is Cosm’s full Shared Reality, immersive adventure that features an 87-foot diameter 12K+ LED dome, made of thousands of replaceable LED modules that snap into place and are individually installed to create a large, uniform CX Display. CX Display, powered by CX Engine, transports those in attendance to the actual venue via Shared Reality cameras, making you feel like you’re there. 

We were at Cosm for their first-ever virtual broadcast of the TGL (Tomorrow’s Golf League), and I cannot express just how spectacular it was. Multiple camera angles switch back and forth and offered a one-of-a-kind look at this startup league. While in The Dome, you really feel like you’re there, and I truly mean that. The LED display is so crisp and clear, it felt like we were right there with Tiger Woods, Max Homa, Kevin Kisner, Collin Morikawa, Sahith Theegala and Justin Rose. 

If you have been keeping up with the TGL, then you likely caught the viral moment from the match between Jupiter Links and Los Angeles where Kevin Kisner hit a bunker shot thin, which rattled off the flagstick and had Tiger Woods cry-laughing. At that moment, in The Dome at Cosm, the reaction from the crowd was the exact same as those actually watching at SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The laughter and cheers really made you feel like you were part of the live action. It was a sports moment I won’t forget. 

In addition to this initial TGL viewing experience, Cosm offers tickets to NFL games in The Dome, as well as Mavericks games, other NBA games, NCAA football, English Premiere League, UFC pay-per-views (I will definitely be going to one of these) WWE pay-per-views and many other events. 

If you’re not a huge sports fan and still want to check out Cosm, don’t fret, there are also other viewing experiences, like “O” by Cirque du Soleil, or Orbital, which is a trip through the cosmos narrated by the astronauts and cosmonauts of the Constellation Coalition. If you are looking for something kid-friendly and educational, you can’t go wrong with this show. 

There are three levels in the Cosm Dome: level one, level two and level three. We chose seats in level two, which was a great look at the Shared Reality screen. It should be noted that there are bartop tables at the back of level two that only offer limited views of the overhead part of the display, so be aware if you are looking at those seats. 

The food and beverages at Cosm are simple, yet delicious. Most are your standard bar fare but elevated to add to the overall experience. One thing I can tell you is Cosm is fast with their ticket times. The venue was fairly busy (for a Tuesday), and from the time we ordered our entrees until they came out was only about seven minutes. Now, it may be a little slower when, say, there is a primo football game on and the place is wall-to-wall spectators. But I still felt like the food came out very fast for the number of people in the venue. 

Beers and cocktails are staples of any sports-watching experience, and it is no different at Cosm. They have beers, wines and signature drinks, any of which will get you prepped for watching your team in the Shared Reality dome or on one of their hundreds of additional screens. 

Of course, they have domestics, many of which are on draft and served in a frosty schooner. Miller Lite, Coors Light, Shiner, Modelo and Blue Moon are just a few of the draft selections. If you are looking for something more exotic, there are a number of bottles and cans, as well, like the Revolver Blood & Honey or a Stella Artois. They even have a couple of non-alcoholic brews if you are serving as the designated driver for the evening, or just trying to cut back on alcohol. 

Cosm also offers nine signature cocktails, like the Zero-G espresso martini, which is a scrumptious combo of Townes Vodka, Monin Vanilla, Licor 43, Borghetti Café Espresso, Zero Gravity Cold Brew coffee, walnut and orange bitters. This drink is complex with multiple flavor profiles and will give you the caffeinated kick to root for your favorite team once the game begins. 

I went for the Pineapple Rum Noir, which is a blend of Meyer’s Rum, pineapple juice, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, simple syrup and bitters. Even though I tried this cocktail in January, it would be perfect for one of those warmer spring or summer days. It was light and refreshing without too much of a rum bite or too much sweet. I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

There are a few appetizers for the table if you are wanting a snack or something to share before you order your entrees. The chips and salsa are great. Smoky salsa can be paired with either guac or some house-made queso blanco. Wings are also available and can be served in Cosm dry-rub, original buffalo, a Cholula honey or lemon pepper flavors. They come with some creamy ranch or bleu cheese for dipping. 

One appetizer we saw go by our table multiple times were the smoked brisket masa fries. These crispy fries are smothered in brisket, queso, cotija cheese and some fresh pico de gallo. I will tell you this looked like far more than an appetizer. It is a huge plate of food and could be ordered as a meal for one (maybe even two) or a great shared plate for the whole table. 

If you are in the mood for something a little lighter, there are a pair of tuna apps that you might be interested in. The tuna wonton nachos are a refreshing combo of Ahi tuna, avocado chimichurri, some aioli, pickled fresno chilis, sesame seeds and scallions. Cosm also offers a spicy tuna sushi roll with avocado, cucumber, carrots and chives. Either offers come great protein-packed bites that won’t hit you quite as hard as the aforementioned masa fries with brisket. 

There also a trio of flatbreads that are perfect to split with a date or business partner. There is a simple margherita, with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and basil. If you want something meaty, then go for the spicy pepperoni. Or if you are one who likes the fungi, try the wild mushroom version with caramelized onions, fontina cheese and garlic confit. 

For main courses, I tried the Double Wagyu Smashburger, which came complete with a pair of well-seasoned beef patties, caramelized onions, white American cheese, lettuce and tomato on a brioche bun. The patties were well prepared and juicy, the cheese was melty, and the veggies tasted fresh. There is also a great burger sauce on top that really adds a flavor explosion to this handheld. The burger came with some crispy fries, which were salty and a great sidecar to the burger. 

My wife, Stephanie, opted for something a little lighter and went with the grilled chicken club. The breast was marinated, which kept it nice and juicy, and topped with cheddar, bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato and some creamy aioli. It was a rockstar chicken sando, and I would absolutely recommend it if you happen to be a fan of the yard bird. 

There are a couple of menu items I wanted to try, but ultimately chose the burger. The lobster grilled cheese is a best seller at Cosm, and rightfully so, as it blends buttery lobster with cheddar, Oaxaca and creamy aioli on sourdough bread. It’s a grilled cheese on steroids and looked amazing the couple of times we saw it flash by our table on the way to another diner. 

The steak frites also looked great, with grass-fed, juicy beef, seared to perfection and covered with a bright, fragrant chimichurri and served with those crispy fries. 

If you have a sweet tooth, the churros or the assortment of fresh cookies is a great way to end your meal. 

It should be noted that you will need to buy tickets to Cosm. The tickets come in different tiers. 

A “Cosm Access Pass,” which gives you access to Hall level 1, Hall Club level 2, The Deck level 3 and The Dome general access, costs around $40. The “Hall Club Pass,” which gives you access to everything in the Cosm Access Pass except The Dome general access, costs a little more than $20. 

Tickets for The Dome can get a little pricy, but the technology and the experience are worth it, especially if you plan to go with a larger group. Level 1 Reserved spots at the bottom of The Dome can easily fetch $100 depending on the event, and a booth that seats eight can venture into the high three figures or more, again, depending on the event. 

For Level 2 Club Reserved, a two-seat booth runs around $250, a three-seat booth costs close to $400, a four-seat booth is around $500, and the biggest of them all, a six-seater, can go for over $700, which isn’t much more than $100 per person. But, again, you need to buy the whole booth. 

For Level 3 Reserved, high-top tables are going for $50, two-seat tables run around $99 per seat for three- and four-seat booths. 

I know it seems like some of these prices are a little high, but when you factor it out per seat, it’s obviously much cheaper than, say, attending the National Championship game or trying to score tickets to watch Texas and Texas A&M play. 

Cosm is truly unlike anything I have ever seen. If you ever went to the Omni Theatre at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as a kid, then you have a little bit of an idea as to what you are walking into. But the technology and the overall size of Cosm makes the old school Omni look like watching a Zenith TV from the 1970s. 

Food is great, service was solid, and everyone there seems willing to help you if it’s your first time. Tickets aren’t super cheap, but the experience is well worth it if you want something truly extraordinary for your next date, corporate team-building event, or if you are a die-hard fan and want the next best thing to actually attending the event. Cosm is spectacular in every way, and you should m

The post Feature – Cosm Dallas appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

1 . Robert Rowling – Omni Holdings

Mr. Rowling is the founder of TRT Holdings, which owns and operates such companies as Omni Hotels, Gold Gyms and a host of others. Through Omni, Rowling operates a baker’s dozen of top golf resorts across the country and is currently building a mega golf resort in Mexico. Locally, he was the one person that made PGA Frisco work, and his company controls what happens there. Rowling has become a force in the golf business and can become as powerful as he wants. He is clearly the wealthiest person on this list, and if he wanted to put his billions to work, his influence in golf is just starting. 

2. David Pilsbury – Invited Clubs

In 2017, Invited, then ClubCorp, was acquired by Apollo Holdings, and thus the company was saddled with debt. Things were fine until the last few years when interest rates spiked, and Invited was in a bit of a cash crunch. However, business has been good, very good, in fact, and with some other creative financing on the horizon, look for Pilsbury to flex his muscles and get innovative. Invited still has over 400,000 members nationwide and controls the tee sheets of over five million rounds annually. Given Pilsbury’s past, look for Invited to makes some moves in 2025. However, it will likely not be locally, as they already own 13 clubs and 21 golf courses.

3. Blake Walker – Arcis Golf

We know Arcis locally as one of the stalwarts in running golf courses. With the acquisition of Lantana Golf Club and Gentle Creek Golf Club, they operate double-digit golf courses in town, with their signature club being Cowboys Golf Club (no, Jerry Jones does not own it). Nationally, Arcis continues to grow its portfolio, adding some signature clubs such as TPC Rivers Bend, The Mickelson-owned clubs out west, and their latest signature club, Champions Retreat in Augusta, Georgia, home to the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Walker has strong financial backing, and his quest for growing the company is still there. But as the company matures, his quest for acquiring only the right clubs gets stronger. When they make some purchases in 2025, expect to recognize the courses. 

4. Bryson DeChambeau – LIV Golf

It is remarkable how DeChambeau has changed his persona to the golf world. Once a bad boy of golf that many had a disdain for, DeChambeau has won over the golfing public through his social media channels, and becoming one of the most popular professional golfers, if not the most popular. Through all his social media channels, he has over five million followers. His influence in golf is growing astronomically, despite the limited attention LIV Golf gets. One wonders if he would have stayed on the PGA TOUR if he could have surpassed Tiger Woods in popularity. There’s still time. 

5. Jim Hinckley – Century Golf

Many of you may not know Century Golf, for up until last year, they didn’t run any courses in town. However, they recently purchased The Sports Club, now called The Nelson, and it is a nice fit to their portfolio. Hinckley is an icon in the golf world. He was a former president of ClubCorp before he partnered with Peter Ueberroth and went out on his own. Century owns prominent courses, such as PGA West, and has an exclusive management agreement with the courses at Disney. They also opened Atomic Golf in Las Vegas this year … a 100,00 square foot entertainment facility that, if successful, could be a major growth avenue for them in the future. 

6. Malcolm Holland – Veritex Bank

Proclaimed the “Golf Bank of Texas,” Holland has built a strong local bank by supporting the golf world in many ways. He sponsors a host of professional golfers, including Scottie Scheffler, and is the title sponsor of the local Korn Ferry Tour stop in Arlington. If you want to make it as a professional golfer, you need money, and Veritex has it to help the up-and-comers. They currently sponsor 26 professional golfers and three collegiate players through NIL. There are plenty of golf careers who can personally thank Malcolm Holland for their success. 

7. Matt Kendrick – Good Good Golf

The second brainchild of Kendrick, Good Good is a social media darling, with nearly two million followers on YouTube. However, Good Good’s model is different than what you expect, as it doesn’t rely on advertising or sponsorship money. Instead, Kendrick built the model on brand loyalty, and its apparel sales are startling, making Good Good a major player in the golf world.

8. Jordan Spieth & Scottie Scheffler – The Players

Two of the most popular players on the PGA TOUR, both Spieth and Scheffler have strong followings based on their play and their personalities. Spieth was a superstar before he even turned 30, winning over a dozen times with three majors in a short span. Injuries have hampered his success, but off-season surgery leaves him hopeful to get his game back. Scheffler is currently the No. 1 player in the world after a record season on Tour, and there is no reason to think he cannot repeat that success moving forward. While neither are social media darlings, they both are so popular, that they carry a big stick with the public and are big influencers based on their play. 

9. David McDonald – Escalante Golf

While they have never run or owned clubs in our market, Escalante owns nearly two dozen premium clubs across the country. Some you may know are Pumpkin Ridge (where Jordan Spieth won his Junior Amateur), Kingsmill Resort, Golf Club of Houston and The International. McDonald started the company nearly 30 years ago with some University of Oklahoma buddies, and while they stay off the radar, their success is legit. 

10. Walter Bettinger – Charles Schwab

Since Bettinger became CEO in 2008, Schwab has been the investment firm of the PGA TOUR. They have expanded their presence in golf since then, as they are the major sponsors of the Champions Tour, and are the title sponsor of the Colonial in Fort Worth. Schwab is totally committed to the game, as you can see on their Schwab Golf website.

11. Blake Smith & Jay Danzi – The Agents

If the players can influence the game, the ones advising the players certainly can make a difference. Smith has been Scottie Scheffler’s agent since he turned pro, and given his year and status, Smith stays busy fielding calls. Danzi has been Jordan Spieth’s agent since the beginning, and he is still a very popular voice on Tour and with the fans. 

12. Troy Denton, Cameron McCormick, Randy Smith – The Teachers

If you want to learn from the best, take lessons from the guys who teach the best. All three have numerous students, yet they each have a superstar that carries a lot of weight. Denton teaches Will Zalatoris, McCormick teaches Jordan Spieth, and Smith has taught Scottie Scheffler since he was a tot. 

13. Michael Tothe & Jon Drago – Tournament Directors

This market is fortunate to have two annual PGA TOUR events in town, and when you are good at what you do, you do it for a long time. Drago has run The CJ CUP Byron Nelson for over 20 years, and Tothe has run the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial for over a decade. Together they have raised tens of millions of dollars for charity and run two of the biggest sporting events in town every year. 

14. Bob Morse – Invited Clubs

Invited is so big, and has so many moving parts, it takes more than one person to make things happen at the top. David Pilsbury is fortunate to have Morse as his COO. Together, with the rest of their executive team, they turned around a fleeting company to one that is at its healthiest in years. Morse has a few more years in him until he retires and look for him to build on his legacy now that Invited is financially healthy again. 

15. Artie Starr – TopGolf

Operating over 100 locations internationally and generating nearly $2 billion in revenue, you would think that Starrs would be higher on this list. However, TopGolf considers itself more in the entertainment category than golf and rarely targets the avid golfer. Callaway has recently announced that they would split off TopGolf into a separate company, but keeping the Toptracer technology, which gets TopGolf further from the golf market.

The post Cover Story – The Golf Power Players of North Texas appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Since the stated 2023 debut of Black Desert Resort (Ivins, Utah), the region is now more apt to see travelers arriving with Titleists, instead of off-road tires, and soft spikes, in lieu of hiking boots. True, the area’s deservedly famed Zion National Park has enjoyed its own surge of outdoorsy popularity in the recent past (about a 90 percent rise in visitors since 2010), yet the unveiling of Black Desert has recast the Greater Zion spread as a nationally reputed true turf town. 

Texas travelers take note: Three-hour direct flights from Dallas to St. George, Utah, are seeing a whole lotta’ golf bags.

“I’ve been out here in this area for 26 years, and, yeah, there used to be a time of a pretty compact, select few golf destinations (in the country),” says Colby Cowan, general manager at Black Desert Resort. “Now, it’s more and more; and southern Utah has always been a destination, but now, with places like Sand Hollow and with us, it’s elevated the area. Years ago, you’d see groups, families out here and maybe they’d throw their clubs in the trunk. Now, it’s taking the clubs and finding a day to fit in for a show or a day in one of the parks; it’s flipped into more of a true golf destination.” 

The final design in the prolific career of Hall of Famer Tom Weiskopf, Black Desert wasted little time finding a Utah throne; upon its debut, the course charted by one national outlet as the state’s top public-access play, while another leading publication charted the grounds as the nation’s No. 2 new course. 

Just as the mid-handicappers took the Red Rock route to fresh play, so did the pros. In October, the Black Desert Championship (captured by Matt McCarty) represented Utah’s first PGA TOUR event since the JFK administration and, this upcoming May, the LPGA will end its own six-decade absence in the Beehive State with a same-named tourney from May 1-4, 2025. With the double-dip, Black Desert will become one of just two courses in the country to now host both tours.

A Palate of Play

Situated across a 600-acre property spread, Black Desert’s course and resort are, at present, both confirmed winner and vision-in-process. Per the later, the on-site hotel debuted in October (with the Tour players as first guests), as did a host of food and beverage offerings. As for the rest – including massive spa; ample commercial/retail; 36-hole night-lit putting course – guests should track progress in months to come.

As for what is completed, Black Desert proves worthy of its instant, national renown.

Sporting a bold palate of electric-green bentgrass routed with and cutting through couverture chocolate-colored, ancient basalt lava rock and with 360-degree framing compliments of southern Utah’s signature Red Rock Mountains, spires, arches and hoodoos – yeah, this property is a postcard stunner.

On-course, the design from Weiskopf and Phil Smith proves a scorecard of beauty, opportunity and trial. 

“The course, obviously, is pretty unique in its setting,” says Cowan. “From the green grass to the lava rocks and red rocks; it’s pretty remarkable. At the same time, I think it can be extremely playable, as well. The landing areas are a bit narrow in some locations, depending on tees, but if you play the right boxes, you’ll enjoy yourself. At the same time, if you get a little wayward, it’ll present some challenges.”

Per many, if not most courses traversed by both Tour pros and mid-handicap ams, the former tackle with seeming ease (McCarty won at 23-under) what the duffers suffer with askew. 

Coupling intimidation with aesthetic, Black Desert flows with natural contouring (i.e., balls often above/below one’s spikes), some blind boxes/approaches/sightlines, man-made water features and the unknown lava bounding which finds accompanying forecaddies waiting just an extra few seconds to sign off on either safe passage or reload. Well-manicured greens need but an earnest roll to take true course, though the tight-cut bentgrass putting surrounds all but demand that chippers keep the 60 in the bag and achieve the surface with either the flat stick or an 8-iron bump shot. 

While a pair of Weiskopf’s trademark, drivable par 4s (Nos. 5 and 14) and some getable par 3s present scoring opportunity for all levels, most players need to bring a few sleeves. 

Myriad guests will (or should) enter the round with “experiential” expectations, which the Black Desert brass has wisely sated with A-grade course grooming and ample in-round trimmings for a concierge-style resort experience. Along with the (needed) forecaddie per each foursome, the round comes compliments of a trio of snack stops along with way, with everything (breakfast sandwiches, tacos, sodas, candy, etc.) sans booze included with the rate. 

The Tour’s autumn visit no doubt galvanized what proves an exceptional commitment to service for the resort’s daily fee player. 

“It (Tour stop) reinforced the need for that real front-facing experience for the guest,” Cowan says. “It’s easy sometimes to get caught in the cubicle; we learned, or perhaps reinforced, the great importance of being super-attentive to the guest. We need to be sure to be on-point, at the top tier of service.” 

Golf & Rock

Replaced by Black Desert as the state’s longtime top public option, nearby Sand Hollow Resort in Hurricane sports a terrific Championship Course, along with a must-add, nine-hole Links play. Inspired by the game’s overseas origins, the John Fought-designed grounds route with subtle camber, and the Championship’s ledge-laden run across its latter nine prove among the best stretches in the entire southwest. While the property’s ongoing residential buildout has removed a bit of the grounds’ natural flow, Sand Hollow remains a required round for the destination golf guest.

To make it a trifecta golf tour, know that locals rave about Copper Rock GC, also situated in Hurricane.

For those seeking a highly recommended off-course addition to a Greater Zion trip, southern Utah’s “Mighty 5” park scene tracks among the most popular outdoor bounties in the nation. Guests of and visitors to Black Desert are situated near a quad of said destinations, in Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, respectively, along with Snow Canyon State Park. 

An ideal two-some day of golf & rock can be had with the veteran outfitters at Zion Guru, which presents an expert menu of guided hiking, e-biking, rock climbing and canyoneering tours for all levels and ages of guests. Wanna’ rappel a 100-foot rock wall a few hours before your tee time? No worries – this carabiner crew will have you instantly outfitted and box-checked in short time, with greenhorns fast breaking-maiden on a diverse descent of walls, slots and outcrops.

And while southern Utah may not own the rep of a drink & dine getaway (though Black Desert is working to alter said perception), travelers seeking some post-round or after-park respite will find quality quaff at Zion Vineyards in Leeds. Situated near the west entrance to Zion (and the east entry of Snow Canyon), the appellation produces some legit varietals in the ways of Cab, Zinfandel and Tempranillo, and will soon add to its visitor allure with an in-process, new tasting room set to debut in the spring of 2025.

The post Travel – Black Desert Resort appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Lucky for you, there’s a destination that’s both a golf lover’s dream and a wellness destination. That paradise is Mallorca, Spain – the largest of the Balearic Islands, where golf courses abound and wellness isn’t just a New Year’s resolution, but a way of life. That means that a golf trip to Mallorca isn’t just a fun way to lower your handicap, it’s a solid step in building a healthy lifestyle. Plus, it’s a gorgeous vacation destination full of more natural beauty, healthy Mediterranean cuisine, and recreational opportunities than you can count. So, start a text chain with your golf buddies, or get your spouse and family on board, and start planning your Mallorca trip now.

When to go? 

Since Mallorca’s golf courses are open 365 days a year, with over 300 days of sunshine and annual temperatures ranging from 59 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, you can “squeeze in” a trip to Mallorca whenever it works for you. Maybe you’d like to book a trip during the quieter season (November-March), which might be a bit cooler and wetter, but you’ll find lower prices and less competition for tee times. April until September is when most people visit Mallorca, as many Americans are taking advantage of United Airlines’ direct flight from Newark to Palma de Mallorca (available May until September.) This is a great option, as it lets you bypass a stop in Madrid and head directly from the US to Mallorca.

Golfers and non-golfers will find plenty to do in Mallorca

The great thing about Mallorca is that if you’re traveling with a partner or members of a group who don’t golf, it’s all good. Mallorca is perfect for golfers, and the island is also known for its vibrant culture, natural beauty, amazing food and recreation. Plus, let’s not forget about the beaches and spas, and the natural, relaxed vibe of the island.

Let’s start with golf 

With 23 courses throughout the island, many say Mallorca is one of the premiere golf destinations in Europe. It’s also a top spot for several European professional golf events, such as the Rolex Challenge Tour, played this year at the Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course, Golf Alcanada.

Traveling with golfers of all abilities? No problem. Mallorca’s courses include parkland, cliffside and coastal layouts. Plus, if “professional development” is on your itinerary, a number of the courses, such as Pula Golf Resort, Son Antem Golf Resort & Spa, Golf Alcanda, and Capdepera Golf, have golf academies. Those golf lessons can be a great perk if you’re traveling with young golfers – Junior can go to golf school while mom and dad play a round.

Planning your golf trip

As you’re putting together the essentials of your golf getaway, the Mallorca Golf Island Website is a great resource.  Here you’ll find information about the island’s four regions, where Mallorca’s courses are positioned for easy travel between each (similar to the RTJ Trail in Alabama). 

Speaking of the RTJ Trail, be sure to check out Golf Alcanada in Port d’Alcúdia. I had the pleasure of playing this 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr. course that’s known for its sea, mountain and lighthouse views. While the course was designed to challenge the seasoned golfer, it’s definitely accessible for golfers of varied abilities, and it was easy to see why it has been consistently named one of Europe’s top courses. High-end practice facilities, a golf academy, and restaurant with delicious Mediterranean food add to the amenities. Plus, you’ll want to check out their beautifully restored pro shop, which like many of the buildings on the property, is between 250 and 300 years old.

Can we mention an RTJ course without talking about the only Jack Nicklaus-designed course on the island? T Golf Palma is just 10 KM from Palma and is a great course to play if your foursome has newer golfers or those of varied abilities.

Learn how to say “stay-and-play” in Spanish, because Mallorca has a ton of great golf and accommodations packages 

As a golfer, you know there’s nothing like a stay-and-play. If this is your jam, try the Arabella Golf & Spa Resort in Son Vida and take a look at these three luxurious hotels:  Castillo Hotel Son Vida, Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel, or the St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Golf Resort. Choose from peak and off-peak package options, spa facilities, and multiple dining options. And the golf? Incredible, with three 18-hole golf courses; Son Vida, Son Muntaner (Mallorca’s oldest course), Son Quint, and a place to fine-tune your short game at the Palma Pitch-n-Putt. The resort’s proximity to Palma means non-golfers can find plenty to do in the city while the golfers hit the fairways. Discover more of the many hotel options courtesy of Mallorca Golf Island.

Maybe you’d like to stay right in Palma and “commute” to various golf courses. I can vouch for the HM Palma Blanc, a contemporary hotel in the heart of Palma, but there are plenty of options that allow you to experience all Palma has to offer.

From the majestic Catedral de Mallorca to unique, authentic experiences like a Spanish cooking lesson in a windmill to the many museums, shopping and parks, there’s so much to do in Palma. Plus, staying in Palma gives you access to golf throughout the island. And don’t forget that by staying in Palma, you’ll have easy access to the Palma de Mallorca Airport.

Outside of Palma, the island is full of excellent accommodation options. On the Northeast side is the Pula Golf Resort, located in Son Servera, offering an 18-hole championship course and an on-site hotel.  Other possibilities include the luxurious Hotel Illa D’Or, Hotel Uyal, or the Four Seasons Resort Formentor.

In addition to the island’s luxury hotels, choose from boutique hotels, contemporary urban options, and many charming rural tourism options like the family-owned Son Sant Jordi in the village of Pollensa.

Truly something for everyone in Mallorca

One way to experience Mallorca is to go all out on an 18-36 hole/day golf bender. There’s nothing wrong with that. But maybe not everyone in your group feels the same way.  In this case, the non-golfers can find ways to explore Mallorca’s history, culture, art, recreation, beaches, spas and more. Get a gameplan with help from the local tourist office, or investigate the various packages offered by area hotels and courses. The options are endless, including unique and unforgettable luxury experiences and retreats like this one for golfing yogis.

If you like sports and recreation (beyond golf), rest assured everyone can find an activity in Mallorca. Cyclists from around the world come to Mallorca, as do marathoners and triathletes. Plus, there are miles of trails and routes for those who like a good hike. There are even “spin-off” activities (pun) like Salty Cycling, that combine cycling with water for a unique experience with hydrofoil bikes. Nothing like cycling on top of the water—I tried it and loved it! If that doesn’t float your boat, there are plenty of traditional water activities, like windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving or fishing.

And, if all you’re looking for is a bit of peace and tranquility, Mallorca has been called the “island of calm” for its countless opportunities to disconnect and relax. Head to one or more of the 300 beaches, or relax at one of the many spas.

Okay, here’s another idea – why not combine business with pleasure and golf? Or, celebrate an event like a wedding or anniversary in Mallorca? Mallorca is a destination for many conferences, events and celebrations.  And, maybe you want a totally unique golf experience, consider a 2026 trip to Mallorca when the island will be in the Path of Totality for the Eclipse on August 12, 2026.

Is there an artist in your group? Then hop on the historic train from Palma to Soller, and enjoy Picasso, Miro and other Spanish artists and beautiful buildings throughout the charming village. Speaking of villages, don’t bypass Deià, a fan-favorite village for artists and creatives. Don’t miss the Belmond La Residencia, a unique artist retreat with a hotel, luxurious restaurant, gallery and unparalleled views. And for the film enthusiast, why not come for the Evolution Film Festival Mallorca and work some golf around catching a few flicks?

Finally, after golfing and touring your way around the island, you’re bound to be hungry. Be sure to try the local food and wine and see what products put Mallorca on the map. Don’t leave home without sampling a variety of seafood and local dishes, Mallorcan wines, tasting Mallorcan olive oil, or finding out why people can’t stop talking about the sobrasada (a raw, cured pork sausage from the Balearics) and the light, fluffy powdered sugar=covered ensaimada pastry.

Plus, for the shopper in the group (or if you’re bringing back souvenirs), Mallorca is known for textiles, leather, blown glass, and Mallorcan pearls are just some of the highlights.

The verdict? Mallorca is the place to go in 2025

Take charge of your wellness and your golf game with a golf getaway to Mallorca. While, yes, it’ll help your game, it’s also a chance to see one of the world’s premier destinations for wellness, recreation, relaxation and culture. A trip to Mallorca is an easy sell … so get your spouse, pals or family on board and book your trip today! 

The post Travel – Mallorca, Spain appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.

Welling is probably best known to Texans for his collaboration with Tiger Woods on Bluejack National near Houston and his work on the Fields Ranch West Course (ranked No. 1 public course by AVIDGOLFER in 2024) at the PGA Frisco development. But, to those who follow course architecture, Welling has become one of the most intriguing designers of the last decade, with his hands on numerous other projects nationwide as well as here in the Lone Star State. Under Fazio, Welling had his fingerprints on courses like Dallas National, Vaquero and Escondido, and now as the lead architect of his own firm, is working on new Texas projects like Freestone Club, Travis Club, and a new putting course at Cowboys Golf Club, which is expected in the coming months. 

This South Carolina resident admits he has a bit of a “Forrest Gump” type story that includes course design, land planning and, yes, curling. AVIDGOLFER spoke to Welling about his projects in Texas, his relationship with Tiger and his obsession with a sport that most people only see every four years. 

AVIDGOLFER: You are somewhat of a renaissance man. You have a physics degree from Brown, you worked in finance, you’re a poetry lover and have even served on the board of a ballet theatre. How did all that somehow parlay into a career in golf course design?

Beau Welling: I grew up a golfer. I have photos of myself at age 2 with sawed-off clubs my father made for me. So, I have been playing this game for 52 years now. But I was the kind of kid that would doodle golf holes, and the first time I remember discovering golf design was a thing was as a child. My family had friends that were members at Augusta National and Cypress Point, and to be able to see these cathedrals of golf and then to learn they were designed by the same man, Dr. Alister MacKenzie, was fascinating to me. 

AG: How did you continue to work to develop that love of course design and broaden your knowledge of MacKenzie’s work?

BW: Well, as a teenager, I went and tried to find every book I could about Dr. MacKenzie. There was no Amazon back then, so at the time it was quite the task, but I found as much as I could. I was really interested in learning about him, not because I wanted to be a course designer, but because I was kind of a nerdy teenager and wanted to know more. 

AG: You ended up at Brown University. At what point while at Brown did you choose this path? 

BW: I ended up going to play golf at Brown. Brown is kind of a wacky place where there isn’t really a curriculum and students are empowered to find their own course of study. Basically, anything is on the table, and I was debating as to whether to do something around physics, science, or maybe art. One day, I woke up with this epiphany that golf course design is a combination of artistic, creative, but also integrates some engineering and technical aspects I enjoy. Across the street from Brown was the Rhode Island School of Design, which, as Brown students, we had the ability to take classes there. They offered a course in landscape architecture, so I started taking some classes. 

AG: You eventually began working alongside Tom Fazio. How did that happen?

BW: Mr. Fazio was building a course in Greenville, South Carolina, and my father was on the development team for that project. I started calling Tom and picking his brain about how to become a course designer, and since my father was a client, he felt obligated to answer my calls. Ultimately, that led me to work around Tom for several summers while I was in college. Although I ended up getting my degree in physics, but I never really intended to do anything with physics since my interest was still in course design. Once I graduated, it was during the recession after the first Gulf War, and Tom wanted to hire me. But he was a bit worried about the immediate future of course design and the golf industry, so I went back and got a business degree from the University of South Carolina’s international business program, and that led me into my first real job in finance. 

AG: So, when exactly did you begin pursuing course design full time?

BW: I always stayed in touch with Tom, and one day out of the blue he called me up and coaxed me to come back and work for his company, and I spent about a decade learning from him. That’s when it really took on a life of its own. 

AG: Obviously, you draw inspiration from Tom, and you mentioned Alister MacKenzie. Are there any other architects that have inspired you over the years?

BW: Those two are at the top of the list, and in some ways, Tom took inspiration from Dr. MacKenzie. But my favorite quote in golf design is a MacKenzie quote, and I am paraphrasing a bit, but it is something along the lines of “the greatest golf course is surely the one that provides the greatest amount of pleasure to the greatest number of people.” So, that’s what we really aim to do is deliver a playing experience that is valued by as many people as possible. We try to process a lot of things from a lot of different people and try to make it into our own. 

AG: How do you manage that when designing a course? Making it a challenge but also making it enjoyable for the causal weekend player.

BW: A good player wants to be challenged and tested. They want it to be hard. A not-so-good player wants to have a chance. That’s high up on my priority list. Tom would be in that same universe of playable golf. Coming from a playing background and appreciating links golf as I do, being able to play golf shots on the ground is important, so there is a links golf inspiration there, as well. 

AG: You have done and are working on some real heavy-hitter projects around Texas. Escondido, Bluejack, Fields Ranch West. What are some of the advantages and drawbacks to working in the state of Texas?

BW: I love working in the state of Texas. And I think first and foremost the best thing about working in Texas is the mentality of the people. You know they want everything bigger and better in Texas. The aspirations are big, and there is a real ethos of wanting to do awesome, cool stuff and wanting to make that possible for designers to do. Right now, we have a project under construction an hour and a half south of Dallas called Freestone Club, and it’s spectacular. It’s a lakeside setting, and you can see water on almost every hole. We are also working on Travis Club outside of Austin, which is classic Hill Country, and we’re trying to tame that rock and topography. Fields Ranch West, even though it’s in North Texas, has lots of topography on certain holes, but other holes are down in a flood plain, so we have to try to maintain our philosophy based on what we’re given. At the end of the day, there are lots of possibilities in Texas.

AG: When you first take on a project, what are your first priorities after you maybe do a site visit?

BW: It really starts with some initial concept planning. It usually starts with a topographic map. We look at site boundaries and constraints. I am not one of those people who shows up to a site and immediately sees how it should ultimately look. I start with multiple concepts and figuring out the land. From there, you form opinions about where certain components might go, and that begets different options and opportunities. After that, you focus on a variety of holes that work right to left and left to right, uphill, downhill, solar orientation and, in Texas, certainly wind orientation. Then you have the geometry of golf you want to solve, and then you want to make sure that the course caters to the high swing speed players but also provides a good experience for slower swing speed players. So, it’s not unusual for us to have 20 or 30 iterations of plans before we choose the direction we want to go. There is some analytics and geometry and logic you start with and, ultimately, the artistic part starts to feed in and, hopefully, you end up with something special.  

 AG: You are working on a putting course at Cowboys Golf Club. Is it fun to step outside the box a bit and work on something a little different like a short course or putting course?

BW: We love being in a more innovative space. We’re big-picture thinkers. The rise of all this alternative golf to me is meeting the demand of what people want to do and, increasingly, people want experiences that are different from the traditional 18 holes of golf. There are a lot of factors. One, I think time is a factor. Take The Swing at Fields Ranch. You can play those holes in an hour or so, where the big courses will take four or five hours. Short courses and putting courses fit into that. Second, there is accessibility. I can take one of my non-golfing friends out to the Dancefloor at Fields Ranch, and that is an experience they can have. Whereas if they aren’t a golfer, they can’t get out on the big golf course and have an enjoyable time. Some of these alternative experiences are much more flexible. We are really excited about the putting course at Cowboys, and it will be different, innovative and unique and lean into the fun factor they have there with their branding they have there. AG: As you were developing relationships and a portfolio, did you ever imagine you would have the opportunity to work with someone like Tiger Woods or Mike Trout? How much fun has that been to get to collaborate with very recognizable figures like those guys?

BW: It’s great. My relationship with Tiger goes back to my Fazio days.  We helped the Tiger Woods Foundation with the golf elements of his learning center in Anaheim. When he started thinking about his first design effort, he reached out to me and others, asking our opinion on how to move forward. We ultimately developed a relationship, and I have been helping him and his design company since 2006. And every project he’s done to date, we’ve been involved in, and it’s been awesome to see the game of golf through the eyes of the greatest ever. He’s so passionate about golf and he has a very analytical mind, so watching him operate is great. But, at the same time, he is a client, so I am still hyper-focused on helping him achieve his goals when we work together. I guess to circle back to your original question, when I was studying landscape architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design, I never dreamed of doing things like that. But I guess the Lord works in mysterious ways. 

AG: Okay. I wouldn’t be telling your whole story if we didn’t get into some curling. How did your love of curling begin? 

BW: I first discovered curling when I was 18 years old, and it became a demonstration sport in the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. I was a senior in high school here in South Carolina and a sports fanatic, and suddenly here’s this sport I had never heard of. I went out of my way to learn a bit more about it and remember thinking how crazy it was. Fast forward 14 years later, and I saw it again in the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics. I remember watching it and becoming totally fascinated by it. I was working with Fazio at the time, and I remember talking about it in the office. There was another guy in the office named Andy Banfield who had grown up in Ontario and had grown up curling. He was able to explain it to me, and my fascination grew. It’s a very strategic game, and that fits my mind, as I think of myself as a strategic thinker. 

AG: Correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t curling originate in Scotland?

BW: Yes. Like golf, it started in northern Scotland about the same time as golf did. To me, it’s very obvious golf and curling come from the same Scottish ethos. Angles are important in both sports, they both have weird terminology and jargon, both are camaraderie-based, both are values based … you call your own fouls in both sports. Arguably, you could say both are great excuses to drink scotch, so they are very similar. 

AG: So, it’s fair to say you developed a little bit of an obsession with it?

BW: 2006 rolled around and there was a lot more Olympic coverage. I almost stopped working for two weeks because I was glued to my television watching it. I noticed that all the U.S. athletes were from Bemidji, Minnesota, and that struck me as odd. I went online and learned that Bemidji is this town that is super into curling and, lo and behold, they were hosting the U.S. National Championships two weeks after the Turin Olympics. Here I am in South Carolina watching these guys in Italy and in a couple weeks they were going to be back in Minnesota, so I just decided to go. Everyone up there was so shocked this redneck from South Carolina made the trip to Minnesota to watch curling, they kind of took me in. I ultimately got asked to be on the board of U.S. Curling, started a curling club in South Carolina, and from there I got invited to the Vancouver Winter Olympics. And from there, I got involved with the World Curling Federation on behalf of the United States, ended up on the board of World Curling, and then in 2022 was elected President of World Curling. So, I came a long way from my couch in 2006 to now; basically, another full-time job to fit in my ample schedule. 

AG: Beau, thanks for the time. And we really look forward to all of your projects here in Texas. 

BW: Thanks. We can’t wait for you to see them. 

The post Cover Story – Beau Welling appeared first on AvidGolfer Magazine.