Golf Travel News June 8, 2024

Golf Travel News June 8, 2024

In golf travel news this week are items from Horseshoe Bay, Pinehurst and Sweetens Cove, Nemacolin, Kempinski Hotels and The Buckinghamshire and more.

Anticipation for the New State-of-the-Art Cap Rock Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort is Running High

A Conversation with the resort’s Director of Instruction Bobby Steiner

Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Director of Golf Instruction Bobby Steiner has spent the better part of three decades helping players of every skill level improve at the game they love. Over his past six years at the renowned destination in the heart of the Central Texas Hill Country, Steiner has become a part of the extended family to the members he’s helped reach their swing and scoring goals.

If Steiner can’t seem to contain his excitement lately, how could blame him? Later this year, the instructional experience at Horseshoe Bay Resort will take a giant leap with the 3,000 square foot Cap Rock Golf Academy – complete with two indoor bays with Trackman and Toptracer technology, club-fitting services, a club repair room, and a demonstration area with shafts, grips and clubheads from top manufacturers like Titleist, TaylorMade and Callaway – opens in the fall.

How will the new academy change your day-to-day activities?

It’s going to be a nice place to do private golf instruction away from the rest of the crowd. We’ll be able to have an opportunity take lessons from indoors or outdoors, or vice versa, which is awfully nice during the Texas heat. And having the Trackman technology and a private place to teach is going to really be a big change for us.

What new programs are you going to offer members and guests?

I worked for Golf Digest schools for about a dozen years and at the Westin Mission Hills in Palm Springs for 18 years, and we taught golf academies. That’s something we just haven’t done here, the one-, two- and three-day golf schools where people come and take lessons as an accompaniment to a vacation. Three hours of instruction on the range followed by lunch, followed by a nine-hole playing lesson followed by unlimited golf. We’re excited to offer this at the resort. Daily clinics will be an attractive offering, too. To give students the chance to focus on different parts of their games: short game clinics, chipping, pitching, putting, bunker play, will be a big benefit.

What do you enjoy most about teaching and what do you think your strengths are as an instructor?

I especially love teaching golf because it’s so exceedingly difficult. You’re really helping someone do something that’s going to bring them a whole lot of joy and a higher standing in the eyes of others, or at least that’s the way it feels. And, to be able to play golf with just anybody is a great gift that not everybody has, so to be part of that is awfully special to me.

I particularly like working with a spouse, so the couples can go play together. I know this is going to be something that can go do together. The game is so hard and there’s so much information, it’s nice to be able to straighten out a golf swing. Golf swing mechanics are not difficult to understand. But what is difficult is for a person to get online and self-diagnose and think that they found the answer from a teacher that they can’t really even see one-on-one. So, it’s nice to bridge that gap between the golfer and what they perceive to be just an overwhelmingly difficult sport.

You’ve spent time at several top resorts in your career. What sets Horseshoe Bay apart?

People don’t say much about this, but there aren’t many places in the country where you can play and teach golf all year round, but Horseshoe Bay is one of them. My job in Southern California was too hot in the summer, so I had to go to Ohio for my summers and my winters there in Palm Springs. Now, it’s nice to be at one place where we can have members who live there all year round, as well as hotel guests who’ve come stay and enjoy the resort all year round. It’s not as seasonal as other places.

Other than that, The Central Texas Hill Country is just the most special part of the world that I’ve been to. If someone blindfolded you, and then you suddenly wake up and they take the blindfold off again, and ask you to guess what state you’re in. You would never guess Texas. It’s green, rolling and beautiful. There are rivers and lakes. This looks more like something you’d see in the Carolinas. It’s just absolutely beautiful. They’ve got all the wineries around here and wonderful restaurants. It’s just a special place and only an hour from Austin and an hour and a half from San Antonio, so if you need to go somewhere, it’s not far away.

What are you most excited about for the summer season there?

The thing that’s got my attention is the academy due to open this fall. I’m most excited about this. It’s something I have been looking forward to and we’ve been talking about for the entire time I’ve been here. And we’re finally doing it now. And they’re doing it the right way, and that’s what I’m excited about. We’ve got two indoor hitting bays, as well as a short game area as well as eight outdoor hitting bays with Toptracer range. It’s widely considered top of the heap in all of the range technology. So that’s what I’m most excited about, the new Cap Rock Golf Academy, because it’s going to blow off the hinges and make Horseshoe Bay a place where people are really excited to come learn golf.

Kindred Spirits: Pinehurst and Sweetens Cove Link Up at The Cradle 

Sweetens Cove Bourbon Co-Founder Andy Roddick Kicks Off the Kindred Spirits Signature Cocktail Program at Pinehurst’s New Short Course, The Cradle

PINEHURST, N.C., May 22, 2024  — Pinehurst Golf Resort and Sweetens Cove Spirits Company are joining forces to add an extra shot of fun at The Cradle, Pinehurst’s 9-hole par-3 short course designed by Gil Hanse, with a signature Sweetens Cove bourbon cocktail and seasonal programming series for 2024. 

The Kindred Spirits partnership between Pinehurst and Sweetens Cove includes a cocktail program at Pinehurst’s open-air bar, The Cradle Crossing. Kindred Spirits launched in May with a signature Sweet Tea Old Fashioned created with award-winning Sweetens Cove Bourbon, which is the only bourbon directly connected to and inspired by a golf course. 

“Four years ago, we had a crazy idea to start a bourbon company based around a magical place in South Pittsburgh, Tennessee, called Sweetens Cove Golf Club which has become one of the most beloved 9-hole courses in the country. The Kindred Spirits connection with Pinehurst and The Cradle emphasizes fun and accessibility in the game golf while building new friendships and traditions—with a splash or two of hand-crafted bourbon,” said Roddick, who co-owns Sweetens Cove Golf Club and Sweetens Cove Spirits Company with NFL great Peyton Manning. 

In 2024, Pinehurst will also host informal seasonal events with Sweetens Cove involving bourbon, BBQ, music and short course golf competitions. 

“Golfers enjoy The Cradle and Sweetens Cove for a lot of the same reasons – the golf is fun and there is an emphasis on the joyful camaraderie of your playing partners,” says Gonzague Muchery, Pinehurst Resort’s Director of Food & Beverage. “The Kindred Spirits cocktail is a great first step in bonding these two golfing destinations together. We’re excited for more opportunities in the future.” 

The Nemacolin Golf Academy Announces Summer Series of Premier Golf Schools with Mike LaBella and Guests

Upcoming Premier Golf School sessions include:

Wednesday, June 12, 2024 | 8am-1pm, or 2pm-7pm
FlowCode with Mike LaBella and Dr. Rick Sessinghaus

PROGRAM DETAILS – LIMITED TO FIRST 10 STUDENTS:

Session 1 — Geared toward tournament level players; 8am-1pm

Session 2 — Open to all other players; 2pm-7pm

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
Training and coaching apps | walk away with personalized lesson notes and fitness information | Access to FlowCode training page | Learn FlowCode… an educational presentation from Rick on FlowCode frameworks and stories from working with Collin Morikawa | Train FlowCode… Mental drills and games using FocusCalm EEG technology on the range, short game area and putting green | Integrate FlowCode… Put the FlowCode principles to the test in simulated pressure situations on the range and on the golf course.

Hosted by The Nemacolin Golf Academy’s Director of Instruction Mike LaBella with special guest instructor: Dr. Rick Sessinghaus, Golf Digest Best Teacher in America, is a PGA member who has been coaching for more than 28 years. He has combined his coaching of technical skills with his expertise in the mental performance side of golf to help all level golfers play better and enjoy the game more. He authored Golf: The Ultimate Mind Game and is the founder of FlowCode, a neuroscience-based system of performance strategies, principles, and techniques.

$799/person, per session (tax included)

July 18-19, 2024 | 8:30pm – 5pm

Two-Day Golf School With Mike LaBella & Andrew Rice

PROGRAM DETAILS: This two-day school is an all-encompassing program that touches on critical aspects of the game while getting the player out on the course in real-life golfing situations.

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
Full-swing analysis with Swing Catalyst and Trackman Technology  | Chipping, pitching, greenside bunkers, and trouble shots around the green | Putting & driving | How to practice effectively | Scoring strategy | 9-hole course management daily with coaches | Coaching app: walk away with your lesson notes | Breakfast & Lunch

Hosted by The Nemacolin Golf Academy’s Director of Instruction Mike LaBella with special guest instructor: Andrew Rice, Golf Digest 50 Best Teachers in America, 2022: Rice is the director of instruction at The Club at Savannah Harbor, located at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa. He has been teaching golf for almost 25 years and uses current teaching technology to help golfers of all abilities improve.

$2,295/person (includes tax)
Class limited to 12 participants

August 8 – 9, 2024 | 8:30am-5pm

Strike & Score With Mike LaBella & Devan Bonebrake

PROGRAM DETAILS: Two-Day Golf School | Full-Swing Analysis with Swing Catalyst and Trackman Technology | Distance wedges (50-120 yards) | Finesse Wedges (50 and in) | Putting | Define and develop a better understanding of consistency in golf | Develop a practice routine that has purpose and challenge | Build a purposeful pre/post-shot routine | Learn how to pick targets for your game | 9-hole scoring strategies on the course with coaches

PROGRAM INCLUDES: Training & coaching apps — walk away with your lesson notes and fitness information | Breakfast & Lunch

Hosted by The Nemacolin Golf Academy’s Director of Instruction Mike LaBella with special guest instructor: Devan Bonebrake, current host of The Golf Fix, the #1 Instructional show on Golf Channel: Devan has worked with many notable players including, Greg Norman, Keegan Bradley, Lexi Thompson, Eric Compton, and Vaughn Taylor. In this school, you will learn how to hit the ball more solidly from tee to green while understanding better strategies to score better on the course and avoid those blow-up holes. You will gain an understanding of how to best utilize your practice time and make practice more effective.

$2,395/Person (includes tax)
Maximum of 12 guests

September 14, 2024 | 9am-5pm

Golf + Power with Mike LaBella & Andrew Dulak

Catering to every level of golfer, Golf + Power will deliver coaching and expert insights to elevate your game. Whether you’re an amateur seeking to hone your skills or an experienced golfer looking to refine your technique, this golf school will positively impact your game.

PROGRAM DETAILS: Ball striking — hit the ball more solid | Ball flight control (club face control) | Increase speed | Increase power | Find why your body moves the way it does | Learn how your body needs to swing to maximize your full potential | Functional movement and biomechanics screening

PROGRAM INCLUDES:
• Training & coaching apps — walk away with your lesson notes and fitness information | Lunch | 3:1 student/coach ratio

Hosted by The Nemacolin Golf Academy’s Director of Instruction Mike LaBella with special guest instructor: Dr. Andrew Dulak, Business of Golf Fitness, Health & Wellness Award Winner, 2022: Dr. Andrew Dulak is the owner of Dulak Physical Therapy and Golf, located in Pittsburgh, PA. He’s a golf body movement specialist helping all levels of golfers maximize their fitness to perform their best on the course, stay free of injuries, and deliver more consistent shots.

$97/Person (includes tax)
Maximum of six guests

Students in these special school sessions receive discounts on luxury room accommodations. Learn more at Nemacolin.com.

To register for these Premier Golf School sessions, please email [email protected].

EAGLE RIDGE RESORT DEDICATES FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND TO VETERANS

Charity Highlights include Golden Knights Army Parachute Team Demonstration, FireCracker 5K Run, Golf Tournament, and WWII Reenactments, all Benefiting Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States

WHAT:	Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa in The Galena Territory hosts a Fourth of July weekend jam packed with ways to honor veterans. The weekend features these charity activities: – Presentation of Colors with Galena American Legion – FireCracker 5k & 10k Run/Walk Pancakes & Parachutes Breakfast – 2nd Infantry Division, WWII Reenactors featuring living historians onsite, encampment, displays, vehicles, carrier pigeons and educational talks, as well as a mock battle. The tents and displays will be set up on July 2 for previewing. – An awe-inspiring US Army Parachute Team, The Golden Knights demonstration. – The 2nd annual Honor Flight Golf Tournament, a 9-hole scramble golf outing benefiting Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States, followed by an award ceremony
WHEN:	Wednesday, July 3, 2024 – 7:45 a.m. Presentation of Colors – 7 a.m. Check-in with 8 a.m. Start of the FireCracker 5k & 10k Run /Walk – 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.: Pancakes & Parachutes Breakfast – 8 a.m.: 2nd Infantry Division, WWII Reenactors – 10 a.m.: Golden Knights Army Parachute Team demonstration – 1 p.m.: Shotgun and Honor Flight Golf Tournament with registration from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and award ceremony at 3:30 p.m.
WHERE:	The North Course at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL 61036
ENTRIES:	The FireCracker 5k & 10k Run/Walk is $35 per person and registrations can be made here. The golf tournament is $110 per player & $440 per foursome for the public, $70 per player & $280 per foursome for Golf Members of Eagle Ridge, and $100 per player & $400 per foursome for Territory Property Owners. To register and more information, click here. All other events are free to attend. Hole sponsorships to honor veterans are available and can be purchased by contacting Jackie Richardson at 815-776-5041 or [email protected].
ABOUT EAGLE RIDGE:	Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa is located 150 miles west of Chicago within The Galena Territory, a 6,800-acre recreational, residential and resort community six miles southeast of the historic town of Galena, Ill. The resort’s grounds include 63 holes on four award-winning golf courses, and accommodations that range from quaint Inn rooms to over 100 villas and distinctive homes. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa has 15,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space and beautiful conference homes, which regularly accommodate corporate groups, banquets, and weddings. Other features include award-winning restaurants,  Highlands restaurant, Lounge 289, pro shop, Country Store and a gas station, the new Stonedrift Spa, and an incredible selection of outdoor seasonal activities including miles of biking, hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as tennis, hot air balloon rides, boating and fishing on the picturesque 225-acre Lake Galena. For reservations or additional information, call (800) 892-2269 or visit www.eagleridge.com.

From Tee-off to Hole-in-one: Kempinski Hotel Guests Enjoy World-Class Golf Courses

Unwinding or energising with a golf getaway at the luxurious 5-star resorts of Kempinski

Geneva, 3 June 2024 – Enjoying a round of golf, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the stunning surroundings – for a growing number of hotel guests, this is the perfect leisure experience or vacation. Numerous scientific studies have confirmed the benefits of golf: it is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing ways to improve one‘s overall health and well-being. Few other sports offer such a comprehensive opportunity to enhance both physical and mental state.

“We are thrilled to see the growing interest from our guests in exclusive golf getaways, which confirms the value of our investments in this thriving leisure sector. Across our portfolio of 82 international luxury hotels, we offer access to brilliantly designed golf courses in stunning locations, with some even hosting prestigious tournaments”, says Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer of the Kempinski Group and member of the Executive Board. Here is a carefully curated selection of Kempinski’s finest golf-related hotels around the globe.

Belek, a town characterised by its Seljuk-style architecture and crystal-clear waters, offers golf enthusiasts an abundance of choice with its impressive selection of courses. Nestled within the Antalya Golf Club complex, Kempinski Hotel The Dome is a charming Mediterranean resort with lavish pools, a private beach, and the spacious Sanitas Spa complete with a Turkish Hammam. For the ultimate golfing holiday experience, the PGA National Antalya Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course spanning 6,477 metres that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding forests. The shorter Pasha course also entices golfers, with strategically placed bunkers inviting experienced players coupled with generous fairways to ease the impact of wayward shots from higher handicappers. Other notable courses include the impressive 7,200-yard championship Carya Golf Club. With Belek’s proximity to the ancient world, guests must not miss the opportunity to visit Aspendos, where the remarkably well-preserved theatre continues to host memorable opera and ballet performances.

On any golf trip, it’s worth dedicating a few days to pure relaxation, and that can easily be achieved at Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol Kitzbuehel Alps, with its indoor and outdoor pools and a spacious Spa. This Austrian hideaway, nestled in the stunning landscape of the Tyrolean Alps is a true destination for golfers, with four courses set in the heart of the picturesque Wilder Kaiser Range, all just a mere five minutes from the town centre. Golf Course Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith offers majestic mountain views and, especially on the final six holes, fairways that demand precision. This outstanding golf course unfolds through deciduous forests and beneath towering rock faces. The Kaps course at Kasper Castle is a fun, a nine-hole course that includes island greens on holes eight and nine.

The Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo is conveniently located near the fascinating ancient monuments that make Egypt’s capital city a popular destination for the entire family. During their stay guests can practice their swing on the 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr. Championship course or take things easy with a fun round of footgolf. The Madinaty Golf Club offers an exceptional experience both on and off the course. Guests are encouraged to take time to stroll along the banks of the famous River Nile and explore the historic palaces and mosques along Al-Muizz Al-Dean Street. Of course, a stay in Cairo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Great Pyramid of Giza. With its prime downtown location, the Kempinski Nile Hotel promises tranquillity amid Cairo’s lively ambience. Four extraordinary dining options tempt every guest’s taste buds, while Kempinski The Spa and the rooftop pool invite them to relax and unwind.

Reminiscent of an open-air theatre, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is perched atop a cliff at Nusa Dua. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, more than half of the rooms have private plunge pools. Guests can indulge in indigenous-inspired treatments at the Apurva Spa, or enjoy a sunny stroll through the fragrant gardens that epitomise the beachfront luxury for which Bali is renowned. The Bali National Golf Club has been ranked as one of the top courses in Indonesia and the Asia Pacific region. Its 18 holes offer golfers a diverse range of distinct zones and challenges – from creeks and canyons on the front nine to then lush, mature groves on the back, all wrapping up with an island green on 17th followed by a lakeside hole on the 18th. For golf enthusiasts seeking a rewarding and beautiful round, New Kuta Golf combines 18 challenging holes with breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and the ocean. While there’s plenty to do on the coast – from snorkelling to sunbathing – guests should not miss the chance to explore the vibrant interior of this tropical island.

At the foot of Bulgaria’s Pirin mountains, Bansko is a hidden gem that appeals to more than just those seeking winter sports and natural beauty. Guests of the Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko can take in spectacular views of the surrounding summits. The hotel’s Spa offers three relaxing pools, while guests can choose from four bars and three enticing restaurants, including a sushi bar and teppanyaki grill. The course at Pirin Golf & Country Club is designed by and bears the name of Welsh golfer Ian Woosnam, a former Master’s champion, previous captain of Europe’s Ryder Cup team and a World Golf Hall of Fame inductee. Set amidst a rough and rugged mountain terrain, the course challenges players to navigate 18 holes set winding through four lakes, a river and 80 bunkers. Bansko provides a variety of summer activites, such as hiking along the undulating trails of Pirin National Park, or taking gondola rides to the top of Bunderishka Polyana for breathtaking panoramic views.

Meticulous restoration has breathed new life into The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore. Originally built in 1904, Stamford House boasts a Venetian Renaissance style and now belongs to a uniquely charming 155-room hotel, complete with an elegant spa and a saltwater relaxation pool. Situated on the private island, the Sentosa Golf Club offers two challenging courses. As the host venue for the Singapore Open since 2005, The Serapong course pairs beautiful views with large lagoons and striking rock formations, including the iconic ‘Dragon’s tooth’. Inspired by the sand belt golfing experiences, The Tanjong course has an unparalleled personality featuring waterfalls, lakes and creeks, proving the perfect background for weddings. The Sentosa Golf Club promises exceptional views of Singapore at every turn. Guests may also take a tour through the Night Safari, which offers a rare opportunity to observe nocturnal creatures at their most active.

More inspiring golf-related travel ideas and 18 carefully selected Kempinski Hotels for golf lovers, can be found here.

The Buckinghamshire: Grand Reopening of Historic House Follows 
More Than £10 Million Investment to Create World Class Private Members’ Club & Plan to Grow Golf Portfolio

Doors open to reveal luxury private club amenities including orangery restaurant, wine and whisky bars, and seven new bedroom suites

Exquisitely styled contemporary interiors created by renowned designer Kim Partridge

Arora family welcome Chairman K.P. Singh to cut ribbon

(The Buckinghamshire – May 8, 2024) The Buckinghamshire welcomed VIP guests and members to the grand reopening of its 17th century house (Friday May 3) following an investment of more than £10 million.

The transformation of the historic country estate just 15 miles from Notting Hill and 10 miles from Heathrow Airport is part of a major investment to create a prestigious private members’ club on London’s doorstep – and signals plans by the Arora family to develop a portfolio of world class golf venues.

As the doors opened at The Buckinghamshire, members were invited to wander freely through the exquisitely renovated house and explore new luxury amenities, including a stylish contemporary orangery restaurant, snug wine bar, iconic whisky room, spacious lounges and locker rooms and seven beautiful new bedroom suites.

Following a golf course reconfiguration and the switching of front and back nine holes, the homely comforts of the Heron’s Bar and patio awaits members, with views over the finishing hole and River Colne, making it the perfect place for relaxing post-round drinks and long, sunny lunches.

“While the golf course is the centrepiece of the estate, the house is the heart of our club and whether members are golfing, spending time with family, lunching with friends and business contacts, or spending the day working, the house has been designed as a home-from-home in a relaxing environment, surrounded by natural beauty.”

As a world class private members’ club, The Buckinghamshire, which is also home to the Ladies European Tour, is set to become the centrepiece of a growing portfolio of golf clubs and destinations within the Arora Group.

Plans to develop a new golf course at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, less than 50 minutes’ north of Central London, have already been approved as part of an official bid to host a future Ryder Cup.

ON THE ASCENDENCY: ANTOGNOLLA CROWNED ITALY’S JOINT LEADING GOLF COURSE

Umbria, Italy [05 June 2024] Antognolla Resort and Residences, the coveted retreat nestled in the Umbrian hills, has proudly established itself as one of Italy’s premier golf courses, courtesy of Leading Courses, a trusted consumer platform.

Renowned for its stunning blend of natural beauty and challenging course design, Antognolla Resort and Residences has captivated golf enthusiasts with its tree-lined fairways and undulating greens, earning top ranking in both “Best 18 Hole Golf Course in Italy” and “Best Maintained Golf Course in Italy.”

Rated ‘Outstanding’ in Golfer’s Choice 2024, the Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed course now sits within the top 100 Leading Courses in Europe, and joint-first in Italy. This accolade is one of the most transparent rankings in the golf world, derived from reviews by the Leading Courses community.

A testament to its commitment to excellence, Antognolla Resort and Residences underwent extensive renovations in 2018, including bunker upgrades and state-of-the-art drainage systems. These changes have been recognised by visitors, as the course sits as Italy’s best-maintained golf course in Leading Courses rankings.

Earning an exceptional score of 8.8 out of 10, Antognolla Resort and Residences has captivated golfers globally with its natural beauty and impeccable course maintenance, with this new recognition continuing to assert the course as one of Europe’s rising stars.

With its unrivalled charm, championship-calibre course, and commitment to excellence, Antognolla Resort and Residences stands ready to captivate the hearts of golfers and luxury travellers alike, solidifying its status as Italy’s leading golfing destination.

Antognolla Resort and Residences has been the subject of further acclaim, with nominations at the 2024 World Golf Awards in the categories of Italy’s Best Golf Course, and Europe’s Best Golf Course.