Famous Golf Quotes - Part 2 of 2

More "Famous" Golf Quotes

Jimmy Demaret: "Golf and sex are about the only things you can enjoy without being good at."

Jack Lemmon: "If you think it's hard to meet new people, try picking up the wrong golf ball."

Lee Trevino: "If you're caught on a golf course during a storm and are afraid of lightning, hold up a 1-iron. Not even God can hit a 1-iron."

John Updike: "Golf appeals to the idiot in us and the child. Just how childlike golf players become is proven by their frequent inability to count past five."

"Silk Stockings" TV Show: "The people who gave us golf and called it a game are the same people who gave us bag pipes and called it music."

Gerald Ford: "I would like to deny all allegations by Bob Hope that during my last game of golf, I hit an eagle, a birdie, an elk and a moose."

P.G. Wodehouse: "The least thing upsets him on the links. He missed short putts because of the uproar of butterflies in the adjoining meadows."

Bob Hope: "If I'm on the course and lightning starts, I get inside fast. If God wants to play through, let him."

Ken Harrelson: "In baseball you hit your home run over the right-field fence, the left-field fence, the center-field fence. Nobody cares. In golf everything has got to be right over second base."

Chi Chi Rodriguez: "The first time I played the Masters, I was so nervous I drank a bottle of rum before I teed off I shot the happiest 83 of my life."

Chi Chi Rodriguez: "After all these years, it's still embarrassing for me to play on the American golf tour. Like the time I asked my caddie for a sand wedge and he came back ten minutes later with a ham on rye."

Tommy Bolt: toward the end of one of his infamous high-volume, temperamental, club-throwing rounds, asked his caddie for a club recommendation for a shot of about 155 yards. His caddie said: "I'd say either a 3-iron or a wedge, sir.""3-iron or a wedge?" asked Bolt. "What kind of stupid choice is that?""Those are the only two clubs you have left, sir." said the caddie.

Golf Zoo Welcomes Todd Massie!

Golf Zoo is very pleased to announce the addition of Todd Massie to the Phoenix / Scottsdale Team. Todd joined Golf Zoo as the Golf Group Sales Manager for the Phoenix / Scottsdale market on October 1st. He will also be training over the next year in the other Southwest markets (Palm Springs, Las Vegas, Mesquite, and Tucson) in order for him to offer those destinations as well.

Golf Zoo has enjoyed a relationship with Todd for the past 5 years at lodging partner Resort Suites, and jumped at the chance to have him as part of the Golf Zoo team for their Phoenix / Scottsdale market. "With Todd's 15 years experience in the golf travel industry, corporate group know-how, and sterling reputation here in the Scottsdale market, he's a perfect fit for us, and we couldn't be happier to have him" stated Vice President Chris Parcell.

Todd can be reached at 888.867.6956 or tmassie@golfzoo.com

Welcome to the Golf Zoo Team Todd!

Which is Better at Kiawah Island, Homes or Villas?

There are a few main things to consider. First, how important to you is camaraderie on a golf vacation? When everyone stays under the same roof, this generally leads to maximum bonding and fun. Of course, this assumes that everyone gets along well and is easygoing.

If you have guys in your group (I'm assuming this is a buddies trip) who like having things "their own way," it might be best to divide them up into villas. Kiawah Island Resort has one- to four-bedroom villas available.

Second, with respect to Kiawah in particular, if you're looking for the ultimate in luxury and amenities, you may want to stay in a home. Kiawah Island Resort has four- to eight-bedroom homes available.

The "premier" homes all have pools; plus, bicycles and access to the fitness center are included. And while some of the villas are luxurious, too, I don't think they can quite match the overall luxury experience — and privacy — of the homes. If this isn't important to you, the villas might be the way to go. continued...

By: Craig Better of GolfVacatonInsider.com

The Crossings at Carlsbad (San Diego) Newest Gem

We have recently added The Crossings at Carlsbad for our San Diego clients by world renowned golf course architect Greg Nash. It's quite unique in that it's set on 400 acres, there's ample natural reserves throughout the course. Located in the upscale coastal community of Carlsbad, it's only 30 minutes from downtown San Diego, close to the Pacific Ocean and offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean on some holes. The views of rugged southern California canyons, protected natural habitats, wetlands and distant views make this a must play while in San Diego. The clubhouse is one of the most spectacular I've seen anywhere, and offers great dining after the round with views of the Pacific Ocean.

What Friends do on a Myrtle Beach Golf Vacation …..

Never been to Myrtle Beach? Well tune into the Golf Channel this January and you will see what goes on first hand. A film crew is currently on the south end of the Grand Strand shooting four of 12 episodes that will depict the exploits of a group on a somewhat typical golf trip.

The foursome is made up of former PGA Tour pro and ESPN commentator Charlie Rymer, singer/songwriter Josh Kelley, Hootie & the Blowfish guitarist and solo artist Mark Bryan, and Perry Swenson, a member of the women's Duramed Futures Tour, the developmental tour of the LPGA.

Each episode will air in prime time and include several holes of golf and of course their nightly activities.

"The idea is: Here is a day in the life in Myrtle Beach," said Mickey Holden, who was hired by the Golf Channel to produce the series. "There's always golf, but there's always stuff off the course. I know from my own travels, when I go play golf I want a whole experience. ... I want to listen to some music and have some fun. That's what this show is all about ... showcasing golf in Myrtle Beach in a new way. Instead of telling people, 'Hey man, you can have a lot of fun in Myrtle Beach,' we're going to show people having fun."

If you are looking for further insight into Myrtle Beach call one of our local sales representatives at 888.765.0809 or go to http://www.golfzoo.com/.

Golf Packages - What a Great Gift Idea!

'Tis The Season! Once again you are searching for the perfect gift for that special golfer on your list. Golf Zoo designs Gift Certificates for any amount to any destination that we offer, complete with pictures, for any occasion- Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday! Happy Anniversary! New this year - we have made buying your gift certificate for that special someone even easier - you can now buy your gift certificate online via Google Checkout, just click here to begin. Or you can still give Golf Zoo a call @ 800-929-7300, and let us design a great golf travel gift for you!

Happy Holidays!

Linda

New Indian Wells Course to Play in Palm Springs

I don't envy the staff at the Indian Wells Golf Resort right now. First, they have to help host the Skins Game this weekend, the nationally televised event being played on their Celebrity Course, and then they have to follow that up next week by unveiling the newest course to play on a Palm Springs golf vacation, their John Fought-designed Players Course. Talk about needing a breather.

Technically, Fought, who did the restoration work at Pine Needles prior to this year's U.S. Women's Open, redesigned the course, but the resort makes a point of pointing out that, "the mature tree cover and geographical location are about the only two things that the original East Course (opened in 1986) and the new Players Course have in common. By design, the Players Course is completely different than the original golf course." continued...

by Craig Better, GolfVacationInsider.com

Famous Golf Quotes - Part 1 of 2

Famous Golf Quotes ... so we're told.

Winston Churchill: "Golf is like chasing a quinine pill around a cow pasture."

Jack Benny: "Give me the fresh air, a beautiful partner, and a nice round of golf, and you can keep the fresh air and the round of golf."

Lee Trevino: "You can make a lot of money in this game. Just ask my ex-wives. Both of them are so rich that neither of their husbands work."

Unknown: "Golf is not a game, it's bondage. It was obviously devised by a man torn with guilt, eager to atone for his sins."

Babe Ruth: "It took me seventeen years to get 3,000 hits in baseball. I did it in one afternoon on the golf course."

Lee Trevino: "I'm not saying my golf game went bad, but if I grew tomatoes, they'd come up sliced."

Sam Snead: "These greens are so fast I have to hold my putter over the ball and hit it with the shadow."

Paul Harvey: "Golf is a game in which you yell "fore," shoot six, and write down five."

Tommy Bolt, about the tempers of modern players : "They throw their clubs backwards, and that's wrong. You should always throw a club ahead of you so that you don't have to walk any extra distance to get it."
Lee Trevino: "Columbus went around the world in 1492. That isn't a lot of strokes when you consider the course."
Tommy Bolt: "Putting allows the touchy golfer two to four opportunities to blow a gasket in the short space of two to forty feet."

New Restaurant - Metro West/Orlando, Florida

Blazing its way onto Orlando's restaurant scene, the new Dan Marino's Tavern on the Lake in Veranda Park achieves the ultimate upscale casual dining experience in a true neighborhood restaurant setting. Dan Marino's already has established itself as THE place where people are connecting - on the waterfront patio, in the stylish bar, in the elegant dining area.
At Dan Marino's, Chef Patrick Steele brings an imaginative approach to the menu that is remarkable in casual dining. His menu elevates traditional American dishes - steaks, pork chops, roast chicken, meat loaf - with innovative twists and the freshest ingredients to create the restaurant's hallmark American Contemporary Fare.
For wine enthusiasts, the wine list offers familiar favorites and exciting alternatives by the bottle and glass. Beer lovers have plenty of reasons to love Dan Marino's - nearly 100 beers in many styles, from ales and pilsners to stouts and porters, including several hand craft selections.
The stylish and welcoming bar area at Dan Marino's is a destination in itself. Friendly and attentive bartenders make every patron feel like a regular. And true to its namesake, Dan Marino's provides deluxe sports viewing with seven flat screen, high definition televisions spaced throughout the indoor and outdoor bar area.
With a menu that elevates traditional American cuisine and an inviting environment for lakefront dining, Dan Marino's had created a neighborhood tradition that is anything but traditional.
So when planning you next golf package to Orlando, visit us at http://www.golfzoo.com/ or call me at 888.333.6103 (glen@golfzoo.com). I will make sure to set up a round of golf near Dan Marino's, so you can enjoy 18 holes of golf - followed by a great meal.

South Carolina Golf Vacations Rule!

Myrtle Beach nabbed second place in a recent Golf Digest survey that asked 4000 avid golfers & affluent travelers where they planned to vacation in 2008. Myrtle Beach was on the top 10 list of places that provide a high quality golf and overall vacation experience provided.

Hilton Head Island and Kiawah Island were also on the top ten list, The survey found that 73 percent of golfers research and plan vacations online.So hear is the good news: Linda and Craig both book these top ten destinations, give us a call @ 1-800-929-7300 and visit our website at http://www.golfzoo.com/, to customize your own dream golf vacation getaway.

Linda

The online survey was conducted in September by the Golf Digest Research Resource Center for the Travel Industry Association of America. Results were announced at the recent TIA Outlook Forum in Charlotte, N.C.

South Florida at it's Finest

I have been to Augusta National, Cypress Point, Laural Valley and now in Florida we have the same caliber of pampered care. It's name is The Fairmont Turnberry Isle. I had the opportunity to not only play this great course, but also to stay at this world class resort. From the moment of arrival to departure, I can truly say I have never been so spoiled. First let's talk accommodations, from the marble entryways to the custom bathrooms to the scenic views from every window and vantage point - this place exudes class and comfort. Second, the golf experience is second to none on the planet. With its tour-quality caddies and its unmatched manicured courses, it is sure to be a hit with even the most particular golfer. Lastly, the food was a culinary experience with the fork-tender steaks and the unrivaled attention to detail. This is the energizer of all resorts to recharge your battery.

Impressive Golf Course Water Conservation Measures

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – OB Sports Golf Management, management group for Angel Park and The Legacy Golf Clubs, recently completed an ambitious turf removal project designed to limit the amount of out-of-play turf on two of its Las Vegas Golf Clubs. Angel Park Golf Club is a 36-hole facility located in the Summerlin area of Las Vegas. Its Mountain Course and Palm Course were both designed by Arnold Palmer. The Legacy Golf Club, a true test of golf at 7,233 yards from the back tees, is conveniently located 10 minutes from McCarran International Airport. The 10th hole may be the most recognizable in Las Vegas with tee boxes in the shape of a spade, club, diamond and heart.

The project, conducted in conjunction with the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA), removed approximately 70 acres of turf at Angel Park alone, which translates into nearly a 28 percent reduction of turf overall at the 36-hole facility. Angel Park and The Legacy were built in the late 1980’s when water was less of a critical issue, both have always been extremely conscious with efficient irrigation practices. Now with Southern Nevada in a drought, replacing the turf with desert/xeriscape landscaping is the responsible thing to do. Roughly 33 acres of turf was removed from Angel Park’s 18-hole Mountain Course and nearly as much from the 18-hole golf course at The Legacy Golf Club.

The new Southwest Desert look has received rave reviews by the golfers, not only does it look great, but it will conserve a staggering 80 million gallons of water per year. We are impressed with this pro-active measure by Angel Park and Legacy Golf Clubs and encourage more golf clubs to do the same.

Courtyard by Marriott-Rancho Bernardo Golf Packages

What a great location, what a great hotel! Golf Zoo is now offering for San Diego area golf packages at the Courtyard by Marriott in Rancho Bernardo. As good as all Courtyards' are, I have to say that this one is the most beautiful I've seen. Within a short driving distance the golf offerings include Maderas, Rancho Bernardo, Eagle Crest, The Vineyard at Escondido, Mount Woodson and not too far North are CrossCreek and Temecula Creek. What a great selection, what a great package I can put together for you. Head to the wineries in Temecula, the Wild Animal Park, Sea World, the Gaslamp District downtown San Diego, or there's plenty of great dining and nightlife in Rancho Bernardo itself.

Call me for some personal input and I'll be happy to help you plan your golf package.

Lawrence Heraty
Southern California Office
Tel: 888.333.6195 Direct

The Nicer Side of Golf...

We thought this was worth posting:

The following is not intended to offend fans of other sports. It is, rather, an attempt to put everything in its proper perspective. Ever wonder why golf is growing in popularity and why people who don't even play go to tournaments or watch it on TV?
The following may shed some light:

• Golf is an honorable game, with the overwhelming majority of players being honorable people who don't need referees.
• Golfers don't have some of their players in jail every week.
• Golfers don't kick dirt on, or throw bottles at, other people.
• Professional golfers are paid in direct proportion to how well they play.
• Golfers don't get per diem and two seats on a charter flight when they travel between tournaments.
• Golfers don't hold out for more money, or demand new contracts, because of another player's deal.
• Professional golfers don't demand that the taxpayers pay for the courses on which they play.
• When golfers make a mistake, nobody is there to cover for them or back them.
• The PGA raises more money for charity in 1 year than the NFL does in 2.
• You can watch the best golfers in the world up close, at any tournament, including the majors, all day every day for $25 or $30. The cost for even a nosebleed seat at the Super Bowl costs around $300 or more, unless you buy it from scalpers, in which case it's $1,000+.
• You can bring a picnic lunch to the tournament golf course, watch the best in the world, and not spend a small fortune on food and drink. Try that at one of the taxpayer funded baseball or football stadiums. If you bring a soft drink into a ballpark, they'll give you two options - get rid of it or leave.
• In golf, you cannot fail 70% of the time and make $9 million a season, like the best baseball hitters (300 batting average) do.
• Golf doesn't change its rules to attract fans.
• Golfers have to adapt to an entirely new playing area each week.
• Golfers keep their clothes on while they are being interviewed.
• Golf doesn't have free agency.
• In their prime, Palmer, Norman, and other stars, would shake your hand and say they were happy to meet you. In his prime, Jose Canseco wore T-shirts that read "Leave Me Alone."
• You can hear birds chirping on the golf course during a tournament.
• At a golf tournament, (unlike at taxpayer-funded sports stadiums and arenas) you won't hear a steady stream of four letter words and nasty name-calling while you're hoping that no one spills beer on you.
• Tiger hits a golf ball over twice as far as Barry Bonds hits a baseball.
• Golf courses don't ruin the neighborhood.

And Finally: Here's a little slice of golf history that you might enjoy:
Why do golf courses have 18 holes-not 20, or 10, or an even dozen? During a discussion among the club's membership board at St. Andrews in 1858, a senior member pointed out that it takes exactly 18 shots to polish off a fifth of Scotch. By limiting himself to only one shot of Scotch per hole, the Scot figured a round of golf was finished when the Scotch ran out. "TRUE STORY"

Golf / Wine / Art

I've never been a big art guy, but that's all changed. There are two things I really enjoy in life, a good glass of Red Wine and Golf. Now I know that most guys will sit down and have a beer with their buddies after a round of golf - I've done the same. I really think there is nothing more relaxing than sitting outside in the late afternoon early evening with a glass of wine on a golf course.

Well, I met an individual out one night with my wife. We got to talking about what we do for a career and so on. When I told him that I sold golf packages, he proceeded to tell me about his own passion - ART. He has been painting very abstract art in his spare time over that last few years. He told me he painted golf and wine art. I know what your thinking, that's two of my great passions in life.
We proceed to see each other out at local establishments over the next few weeks. We had some people over our house one night and invited him to bring some of his paintings. I was blown away by the paintings he brought. They were basically golf and wine type abstract paintings. The paintings are along the line of Leroy Nieman type - really different and really cool.
I've bought some of his paintings for my house, as some of my friends have. If you enjoy Golf and Wine like I do - you owe it to yourself to check out his website - http://www.cadenliams.com/. You will not be disappointed with the quality and type of art he has. If you have any questions or interest, please call 888.333.6103.
Oh, one last note - remember that one of my passions in golf - so check out our website, http://www.golfzoo.com/, or call 888.333.6103. My email is glen@golfzoo.com
CHEERS!

Torrey Pines - Now offered by Golf Zoo

Golf Zoo now is now proud to offer golf packages at one of the premier 36 hole facilities in all the US at Torrey Pines, San Diego. The South Course is the venue for the 2008 US Open Championship. The North Course I feel is the more scenic of the two, but the South, like the North, is set high above the cliffs over Torrey Pines State Beach and the scenery is simply spectacular. South is tough at the best of times, the North is no slouch but does play easier.When planning your golf vacation package to San Diego, this is a must. As you might expect, it is expensive for non San Diego city residents, but promises to be a memorable experience.

But It's A Dry Heat...

Summer is the best time to golf in Scottsdale. The temps are hot, but the deals are hotter. Here's a few one liners to help you get through it:

It's so hot in Arizona that......the birds have to use potholders to pull worms out of the ground....the potatoes cook underground, and all you have to do to have lunch is to pull one out and add butter, salt and pepper....farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying hard-boiled eggs.
...the cows are giving evaporated milk....the trees are whistling for the dogs....you no longer associate bridges (or rivers) with water....you can say 113 degrees without fainting....you eat hot chilies to cool your mouth off....you can make instant sun tea....you learn that a seat belt makes a pretty good branding iron....the temperature drops below 95, you feel a bit chilly....you've experienced condensation on your butt from the hot water in the toilet bowl....you would give anything to be able to splash cold water on your face....you can attend any function wearing shorts and a tank top....the 4 seasons are: tolerable, hot, really hot, and ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!!...you discover that in July, it takes only 2 fingers to drive your car....you discover that you can get a sunburn through your car window....you notice the best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance....hot water now comes out of both taps....it's noon in July, kids are on summer vacation, and not one person is out on the streets....you actually burn your hand opening the car door....you break a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m....before work....no one would dream of putting vinyl upholstery in a car or not having air conditioning....your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death?"...you realize that asphalt has a liquid state.

Got Golf?

It's summer time here in Myrtle Beach, which means family vacationers and golfers who would like to sneak in time on the links. Whether you are a single or a foursome, let Golf Zoo pre-book your tee times for you. Play premium golf at off season rates and check out a course your fall or spring group is planning to play. If you are staying in South, Central or North Myrtle Beach, no problem - We Cover It All! So make sure you bring your sticks and we will take care of the rest. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call @ 800-929-7300, Linda and Craig, your golf vacation specialists, will take great care of you!

The Newest Cat in Myrtle Beach

Leopards Chase is the newest course at the now 72 hole facility of Ocean Ridge Plantation. The resort is located in the north end of Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand just over the border into North Carolina. Tigers Eye has been their top offering which is consistently on the list of top 100 public courses by Golf Digest. Leopards Chase however was designed to take that top spot and further strengthen the quality of the resort.

The course was designed by Tim Cate, who designed all four courses at Ocean Ridge. Leopards Chase has everything from a man made waterfall to an island green and beautiful landscaping.

When planning your next trip to the Myrtle Beach area give one of our golf specialists a call and be sure to ask out the new Leopards Chase Golf Course.

Taylor Made Performance Lab is Best I've Seen

I've just been to the Taylor Made Performance Lab at Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad, California and what an amazing experience. If you're thinking of buying a new set of irons or the whole set and you don't invest in this great experience first you're missing out and not getting what you need or want in a new set of clubs.Tom Fuller was fantastic, knowledgeable, courteous, professional and a very good player himself. Next time you're planning a golf package vacation to San Diego area, make a point of getting there, it's reasonably priced and offers invaluable insights to your swing, posture, strengths and weaknesses. At the end of your session your club specs are emailed to Taylor Made and your clubs are shipped to your address.
Aviara Golf AcademyFour Seasons Resort – North San Diego, 7447 Batiquitos Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92009
(619) 297-8700 Ask for Tom Fuller, he's simply the best.

Orlando / Jacksonville Ultimate Golf Excursion

If you don't mind being a road warrior for a couple of days, have I got a great package for you. Golf Zoo and Ginn Resorts is offering the Ginn Challenge. This package is based on 4 players in a three bedroom villa and 5 rounds of Championship caliber golf. Package rate is $750.00 per person. I will give you some details on the resorts and the golf courses they have on property.
GINN REUNION RESORT - ORLANDO, FLORIDA:
The resort at Reunion has just been named a "Distinguished Member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts. Reunion Resort hosted the "Big Break Reunion", seen on The Golf Channel. The facility also host the LPGA Ginn Open.
The 3 courses on site are designed by Nicklaus, Palmer and Watson. The Legacy course made Golf Digest's #21 of America's Top 4 new courses, 2005. It also made Golf Weeks #12 Florida's Best Public Golf Course, 2006. The Independence course received the following rewards: Golf Digest #10 America's Best New Resort Course, 2005. Golf Magazine Top 10 best new courses you can play. Golf Week #4 Florida's Best public access, 2006.
GINN HAMMOCK BEACH RESORT - PALM COAST, FLORIDA:
Cond'e Nast Traveler - "Top 100 Golf Resorts", 2006. Resort and Great Hotel's - "Connoisseur's Choice Award", 2006. AAA Four Diamond Award, 2004 - 2006.
The 2 courses on site are designed by Nicklaus and Watson. The Nicklaus Course (Ocean Hammock) host the Senior PGA Tour Ginn Championship. Here are some of the awards the golf courses have received: Golf Week - "America's Best Courses you can play, Rated # 3 in Florida, 2006 and "Top 100 Resort Courses", 2006. Golf Digest - "America's 100 Greatest public courses, 2005. Golf Magazine - "Top 100 you can play", 2006.
These are two of the best golf resorts in Florida. The two resorts are located about 1 and 1/2 hours apart. Don't let the travel discourage you - it is well worth the drive.

Cathedral Canyon Country Club- Great Value

On my recent visit to Cathedral Canyon Country Club I came away very pleased to be able to offer the facility to our Golf Zoo clientele as part of their Palm Springs golf package. Offering 27 holes, I have to say my favorite 9 was the Arroyo, the latest addition. It's as if you're on a links nine. The other two nines, Mountain and Lake are also very enjoyable and offer a good, fair challenge. This is one of our best golf values in a Palm Springs golf package with great pricing, a friendly, down home atmosphere and a comfy restaurant and bar facility to enjoy after your round. The surrounding mountain views are spectacular and the 27 holes of golf can be enjoyed by any handicap golfer without breaking the bank.

Golf Zoo seeks qualified Golf Travel Salespeople

Golf Zoo, one of the fastest growing Golf Tour Providers in America is seeking experienced Golf Travel Salespeople in the following destinations:

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

These individuals will be responsible for daily sales and service of customized golf vacations, as well as maintaining relationships with vendors in the applicable region. This is NOT an entry level position - Only those with golf, travel, or previous sales experience need apply. We are seeking enthusiastic and hard working individuals with a strong interest in the golf travel industry. Exceptional communication skills are a must.

Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation plan with bonuses
• Medical and dental plans
• 3 weeks paid time off annually
• Telecommuting
• Discounted travel and golf
• and more...

If you are interested in joining the Golf Zoo team, please send cover letter with resume to Chris Parcell at chris@golfzoo.com

Gain More Distance!

If you have been playing golf for years or just taking up the game of golf you may be searching for a way to hit the ball farther. There is a simple, low-cost way to gain more distance on your golf shots – stretching! If you obtain a golf specific exercise book, either at your local bookstore or library, work hard and follow the suggested stretching regimen you will gain the valuable yards you are looking for in your game.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Hot Stix Opens new Performance Facility

Hot Stix has recently opened its new Performance Center located at Legend Trail Golf Course in North Scottsdale. The Performance Center is the most elite and advanced fitting experience in golf, and is absolutely the best fitting offered.

It is a four hour process which is basically separated into two parts. The first part is called Tour level Game fitting. This is a 6 six stage fitting that gets into set makeup and is the first part of the information gathering for the fitting. The six stages are driver, long game, mid game, scoring irons, short game, and putting. The second part of the fitting is the complete launch monitor analysis of your woods and irons and the putter fitting with the lasers and cameras.

The cost for this session is $795. The address where the course is located is 9462 East Legendary Lane in Scottsdale and the zip code is 85262.

Maryland is Seeing Blue

This past weekend while in Ocean City, I enjoyed one of the Eastern Shores delicacies; “The Blue Crab”. It can be enjoyed in many ways such as crab dip, imperial, soup, fritters, cakes, even salads but I enjoy it most in its original form, steamed with lots of Old Bay. It is messy and time-consuming but if you have never had this Maryland staple, it’s well worth trying. I wanted to share with you what I think is the best way to enjoy this meal:

First, pull off all of the legs and the claws. Then pull the tab back and this will help you pull of the top of the crab. Just to let you know, the male crab has a "tab" which looks like the 'Washington Monument' as opposed to a female crab which has a tab that looks like the US Capitol. At this point you are almost there. I usually take a knife and cut off the lungs or “devils fingers”, don’t eat them (I was always told they would make you sick)! Now you want to clean out anything that is in the cavity and if you want, there is something that looks like mustard inside. Try it if you haven’t but don’t worry if you don’t like it, not everyone does. Then break the crab in half and work on one side at a time. I have found if I break it in half again the meat comes out easier. While doing this, make sure you watch out for shells. Now comes the hard decision and there are many ways this is done. Some say that you just eat the meat plain as it comes out, others dip in melted butter or vinegar and then there are people like me who pick their crabmeat into a bowl and then sprinkle with vinegar and enjoy all at once!

So if you have not tried this Maryland treat when you travel to Ocean City make sure you stop at one of the many places that serve this tasty seafood. I like Hooper’s Crab House next to the Route 50 Bridge in West Ocean City. They have a great all you can eat with sweet corn!

The Stonegate Experience

In our quest to provide our customers with the best of golf and accommodations nationally, once and a while we come across a venue that even we as experts find ourselves saying, "WOW! This is special." Stonegate Golf Club is such a facility.
It's not just the magnificent 36 hole layout - it's the entire experience. There are quaint Carmel style shops as you first drive in. The multi-functional clubhouse with elegant furnishings is spectacular. Even though I am a non-member, two of the full-time members struck up a conversation to make me feel welcome. During my four hours of snooping around, not once did I see a thing out of place or anyone discontented. It is a picture perfect place to relax. On your next visit to Orlando, treat yourself to something both extraordinary and affordable and visit Stonegate Golf Club.

Golf Idol

If you're one of the 29.5 Bazillion viewers of American Idol weekly or The Grammy's annually or hundreds of other TV shows, musicals or concerts, this fine lookin' group below are the ones responsible for the sound/audio you hear on those productions.
Paul Sandweiss, 2nd from left in the rear and his group has been booking their golf trip with me to Palm Springs for a couple of years now and they're great guys to deal with. They haven't actually faxed signed, eraser smudgefree scorecards to me as of yet, despite my requests, but they have dropped thank you notes and have had always had a great time staying for a few days and enjoying the golf and sun in Palm Springs. So next time you watch American Idol, say thanks guys and good golfing!

Back Row L to R: Mikael Stewart, Paul Sandweiss, David Bellamy, Danny Harris and Scott Harmala. Front Row L to R: Andrew 'Fletch' Fletcher, Michael MacDonald and Mike Parker.

Cheeseburgers In Paradise!

After a day on the Links while in the Myrtle Beach area, head to Hamburger Joes - a locals & golfers favorite. Great burgers & wings with a great atmosphere to boot! You can't beat the $1.00 drafts all day long & they were voted best Burgers on the Beach 3 years in a Row! Kick back on the outside deck overlooking the Marsh in North Myrtle Beach Right accross from Barefoot Landing. I promise you won't leave hungry!!

Linda

Widen The Fairway

If you normally hit the ball from left to right off the tee try the following strategy to effectively double the size of the fairway. During your next round, tee off next to the right tee marker and aim at the left side of the fairway. By doing so, you will double the amount of fairway to hit into than if you had teed up in the middle of the tee markers and aimed straight down the middle of the fairway.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Junk the Jet Phil!

Dear Phil;

You're very talented, but you can't keep flying that Gulfstream home at night after a tournament round such as at the Nissan Open flying home each night from L.A. to San Diego. Just this last week, you missed the Pro-Am in Dallas at the Byron Nelson Classic. The PGA Tour didn't disqualify you from the tournament, which now has all the other players riled up, as they would have been disqualified for the same infraction of the rules. Phil, you just changed coaches from Rick Smith to Butch Harmon. Now sell the Gulfstream on eBay already and work more on the game.

Joe Fann

South End Beauty

This past weekend I played Willbrook Plantation and the new greens look great! They are still a bit firm yet but rolled very true and are in perfect shape. The course was renovated this past summer and had the new Champion Bermuda greens put in. There were also several projects completed to enhance the aesthetics of the course and many others planned to take place over the next few years.

For those of you who have not played this track you are missing out on a wonderful plantation style course. I consider Willbrook as one of the best values on the Grand Strand. It has beautiful live oaks, lakes, superb landscaping and wonderfully manicured greens, fairways and tees.

On your next trip to Myrtle Beach be sure to add Willbrook Plantation to your list. If your looking for a great 36 hole day consider adding River Club or Litchfield, both of which are with-in a few minutes drive.

Winter Golf in Florida

Peak season golf package time in Florida runs between middle of January to the middle of April. Yes, the weather up north has been pretty bad for a couple of months and golfers are anxious to travel to warmer destinations.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret - November and December are some of the best times to play golf in Florida. The weather is perfect, you don't get that January or February cold snap. The rates are very attractive and not yet into high peak season rates. The golf courses are not as busy, due to the fact that most package groups are coming during peak times. Savings could be as much as a couple hundred dollars per person for a package.

During this time of year you bring in Jacksonville, which is typically 10 degrees colder than the Orlando area. In mid January/February - it can get a little chilly in northern Florida. November/December is typically warmer and you can enjoy some great Jacksonville golf.

I know that winter up north hasn't hit to hard in November/December; but take it from a former Upstate New Yorker, it's a nice way to finish off the year - with a golf package to Florida.

I live in Orlando and I have played golf all over the state of Florida. Please feel free to contact me at 888.333.6103 to plan your next golf vacation to Florida, also check out our website - www.golfzoo.com.

"Grease is the Word!"

After being in the Golf Vacation Business for 7 years, and the Vice President of Golf Zoo Inc., you probably expect me to be a tradionalist with a USGA bag tag and a copy of the Rules of Golf in my bag.

Not even close.

I'm a weekend hackin' chop who looks for every advantage (legal or not) I can get on my weekend buddies who often will make ridiculous "double down" bets on the tee at 18 to avoid buyin a beer or 7. I have a full time gig, and a three year old daughter who is heavy into activities... Who has the time or the patience to practice? Gimme a break.

I have found the answer.

I recently read Rick Reilly's "Who's Your Caddy" where he caddies for a number of different characters - one of them being the infamous Dewey Tomko, the most notorious golf gambler on the planet. Dewey explains that the gamblers frequently "grease up" their clubs with various lubricants to take the spin off the ball and get more distance, so I figured what the hell - if it's good enough for Dewey......

I proceed to Walgreens, pick up a tube of Vaseline intensive care and immediately start talkin' trash on the first tee at Eagle Mountain. I cover the entire clubface of my driver with a generous portion and stripe it 260 down the middle. There was no talkin' to me the rest of the day. I was greasin' up anything from the driver down to 8 irons. It was beautiful. I typically hit a pretty serious fade, and I promise you that a little vaso did the trick. Walked outa there with a nifty little 81 where I don't believe I've ever broken 85.

I don't think the boys at the PGA would agree, but it sure was fun free swingin' and not having to bother the snakes...

Thanks Dewey. You're my hero.

An Eagle at PGA National

Most golfers do not realize that the PGA National has changed ownership from a private individual to a large investment group. This is great news for all concerned. The new owners have committed 23 Million Dollars to renovate an already great facility. Combined with a world class staff and five-star atmosphere, this resort is launching itself into a class never seen in South Florida. Stay tuned!

When Sports Planets Converge

The University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona is hosting Super Bowl XLII on February 3, 2008.

FBR officials have decided to hold their annual golf tournament January 31 - February 3, 2008. The tournament at TPC Scottsdale will open on Thursday and finishes on Super Bowl Sunday.

It's going to be a busy week out here in Scottsdale, so my best advise is to book your rooms early...

Pressure Putting Practice

If you need help to make more of those testy 3-5 foot putts, then try the following drill. Place 9 golf balls on a flat spot on the putting green in three rows at 3, 4 and 5 feet from hole. The goal of the drill is to make all 9 putts in succession. If you should miss one start over. In order to make the drill more challenging choose a hole on a slight slope.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Grip Pressure Check

If you are not striking the golf ball as solidly as you would like maybe the problem is your grip pressure. Proper grip pressure allows you to maintain proper balance throughout your golf swing. Here is a simple test to determine proper grip pressure. After you have taken your grip hold your club out in front of you so that the club shaft forms a 90 degree angle with your forearms. The club should be held just tight enough so that it does not fall out of your hands.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Precise Wedge Distance Control

One of the quickest ways to lower your scores is to control the distance you hit your wedges. A great way to develop feel is to find out how far you hit your pitching wedge when you let your left arm rise only to the 7:30 position in your backswing. If you can determine the distances for the 7:30, 9:00 and 10:30 positions with your wedge you will turn one club into three. If you choke down 1 inch and 2 inches you will have the equivalent of six more clubs at your disposal.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

Orlando's Northern Star

Just north of Orlando, situated outside the quaint town of Deland, Florida, is Victoria Hills Golf Club. This magnificent layout features whispering pine lined fairways, extreme elevation changes, beautiful white sand traps and lightening fast greens. The friendly and professional service rendered by the golf course staff is second to none in our area. This course is well worth the 50 minute drive north on I-4. For a great package that includes Victoria Hills, check Golf Zoo's Hot Deals section of the web site.

Life in the Trap Golf Comics Are Back!

After a year without, we are bringing back the "Life in the Trap" golf comic back to our blog for the enjoyment of our readers. Expect a new comic 2 times a month! Without further ado::

(click comic for a larger version)

CrossCreek Golf Club - A San Diego Masterpiece

Golf Zoo just added CrossCreek Golf Club in Temecula Creek, CA to our San Diego offerings. Not only is this one of the most impressive golf courses in all of Southern California, but it's only an hour from downtown San Diego and the same from Los Angeles. The course is easily accessible off the I-15 yet tucked back in the foothills surrounded by beautiful countryside with no homes and 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains.The historic Temecula Valley itself offers so much, an array of great wineries, hot-air ballooning and the Pechanga Casino is one of the very best. The creation of renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills, CrossCreek is another masterpiece from the man who was entrusted to renovate such national treasures and US Open venues as Oakmont, Inverness and Oakland Hills. Come to Temecula, stay at the wonderful Temecula Creek Inn, play 27 holes of golf at the Inn, play CrossCreek, visit the wineries and the casino and you'll be sure to return.

Aim For Success

Proper aim and alignment are vital to successful shotmaking. To insure you are aimed properly, the next time you are on the practice range try the following procedure. Stand behind the ball and look out at your target. Then bring your eyes back toward the ball and pick out a spot 2-3 feet in front of your ball. This spot will serve as your intermediate target. Lay a club down parallel to the line to your intermediate target. Make sure your feet are parallel to the club on the line and you will be aimed for success.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

New Saguaro Course at WeKoPa!

I had the opportunity to play this course and it was, in a word...inspired! This is a must play! Worth the trip to Phoenix in itself, but I have even a better idea...

Tie your WeKoPa experience into a Major League Spring Training Game! The Cactus League hosts 12 great teams including the Cubbies, the Padres and the Giants. I can not think of a better vacation this spring! Call me at 888-867-6956 or create a quote online to start the process!

- Vicki

Balanced Set-up

It is very important to have good balance at the start of your swing. In order to establish a strong foundation at address make sure your feet are shoulder width apart and your weight is on the inside of your feet more toward the balls of your feet. Imagine you are on top of a tall building and want to look over but not fall over.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club

No-Peek Putting

If you are having trouble making short putts maybe the problem is you are looking up before your stroke is complete. Try the following drill. Place your ball on a dime on the putting green three feet from a hole. When making your stroke concentrate on looking for the dime. By the time you see the dime your stroke will be over.

By Jeff Allen, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Longbow Golf Club