World Golf Resorts

Happy Blogiversary

2009-05-19T06:15:00.003-07:00

Happy blogiversary? Yep, this month marks the 2-year anniversary of the launch of Golf Babes. And we celebrate by re-posting the very first photo we posted back on March 16, 2006. Natalie Gulbis, of course.

Over these two years, we've had far more visitors than we ever expected, and had the pleasure of meeting many great folks.

Thanks to everyone who has helped make Golf Babes a success.

And thanks especially to all the female professional golfers (and aspiring ones) out there who, through their commitment to the game and very hard work, help bring more women into golf and help bring more fans to women's golf. We hope that Golf Babes, in some tiny little way, helps bring more fans to women's golf, too.

Christina Lecuyer

2009-05-19T06:15:00.001-07:00

We'll be posting about some of the "Big Break: Kaanapali" golfers over the coming weeks, leading up to the April 15 series debut on the Golf Channel. And starting with the ones we haven't posted about before.

Such as Christina Lecuyer. Christina is a native of Edmonton who played college golf at the University of Central Arkansas. Lecuyer made it to the finals of LPGA Q-School last year before her run ended. She's been playing the Cactus Tour early in 2008, and we should see her in some Futures Tour tournaments this year, too.

You can learn more by taking a look at her "Big Break" bio.

Susan Choi

2009-05-19T06:13:00.000-07:00

Susan Choi is one of the lesser-known and least experienced - at least in professional tournaments - cast members of "Big Break: Kaanapali." A New York native, Choi first played tournament golf when she went to college at Division III Wellesley in Massachussetts. She won more than a dozen tournaments while in college. She also won the Boston men's amateur championship in 2006 and 2007.

At the time of the "BBK" taping, Choi was still an amateur, but she has since turned pro. She has low status on the Futures Tour this year, but may get into a handful of Futures tournaments. She's been playing some Suncoast Series events up to this point in the season.

Natalie Gulbis

2009-04-25T10:08:00.001-07:00

The Natalie pic above is one featured on the Natalie Gulbis profile page over at AskMen.com. And kudos to our friends at AskMen.com (who once featured Golf Babes as their "Site of the Day") for including more golfers. They have pages now for Paula Creamer, Annika Sorenstam, Anna Rawson and Michelle Wie. And some guy named Tiger Woods. Although personally, I've never considered him very attractive.

Morgan Pressel in "Golf for Women"

2009-04-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

Morgan Pressel in "Golf for Women"

The above photo is from a Golf For Women magazine profile of Morgan Pressel that appears in its current (May/June 2008) issue. The article is headlined "Princess at Play" and includes "20 things you didn't know about Morgan Pressel." It's a good read, check it out.

Here is one of those 20 things:

18. The single woman. "There aren't any hot guys hanging around the LPGA Tour," she mock-complains. Herb fixed her up at least once, but she won't talk about it. Daniel Radcliffe, the young British actor, would be a definite consideration. The mention of his name makes her blush. She's a Harry Potter wonk: The original movie poster is on her wall.

Folks, I think it's long past time for me to reveal the true identity of the man behind Golf Babes. I am, in fact, Daniel Radcliffe. And so now, Morgan, I await your call ...

Lesslye Perry

2009-04-25T10:05:00.001-07:00

Lesslye Perry

Kenny Perry won The Memorial on Sunday. His daughter, Lesslye Perry, won a spot on the Tennessee Titans cheerleading squad prior to the 2007 season. Go team!

Elizabeth Stuart

2009-04-17T05:37:00.001-07:00

Trivia question: Who was the first golfer to go through the "First Tee" youth program and later join a pro golf tour?

Answer: Elizabeth Stuart

Before hitting "Big Break: Kaanapali," Stuart had two years of Futures Tour experience under her belt, and she's playing the Futures in 2008. Stuart turned pro in 2006 after a collegiate career at Florida International. Her best finish to date on the Futures Tour is 13th.

Samantha Head

2009-04-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Samantha Head is the Englishwoman on "Big Break: Kaanapali." She's also a twin; her sister Johanna has LPGA Tour status.

Samantha is an accomplished player in her own right, having won twice on the Ladies European Tour. Since turning professional in 1995, Samantha has played on the LET and the Japan Ladies Golf Tour, plus a season on the Futures Tour.

Kim Welch

2009-04-17T05:35:00.000-07:00

"Big Break: Kaanapali" cast member Kim Welch got 2008 off to a great start: She finished second in the Futures Tour season opener, the Bright House Networks Open. In fact, she tied for first, getting into a 3-way playoff that Sunny Oh wound up winning.

Welch was a star at Washington State University, winning 11 tournaments and posting 29 Top 10 finishes in her time there. She turned pro in 2005, and played on the Futures Tour in 2006 and 2007. She also has competed in some long-drive competitions. Last year on the Futures Tour, Kim had five Top 10 finishes and wound up 21st on the money list.

If the season opener is any indication, 2008 is the year in which Kim Welch makes the move into the Top 5 of the Futures Tour money list, securing an LPGA Tour card.

Adrienne Gautreaux

2009-04-08T08:51:00.001-07:00

Adrienne Gautreaux is the fiery redhead on "Big Break: Kaanapali" with the thick Texas twang. A Texas native and Dallas resident, Gautreaux began her college career at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and finished it at the University of South Carolina, where she was teammates with past Big Breaker Kristy McPherson.

She turned pro in 2004 and has played primarily on the Futures Tour, with a high Futures Tour-tournament finish to date of fourth.

Sophie Sandolo

2009-04-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

A coup for the Golf Channel was landing Sophie Sandolo as a cast member for "Big Break: Kaanapali" - a golfer who already has a large international profile. That noteriety for Sandolo is mostly due to her modeling career, and more specifically to the racy calendars she's been doing for a couple years.

Her golf gets overshadowed by her "outside activities," but Sandolo can play. She's been a member of the Ladies European Tour since 2000. While she's yet to win on the LET, Sandolo has posted numerous Top 10s and finished in the Top 20 on the money list.

Cirbie Sheppard

2009-04-08T08:49:00.000-07:00

Now here's something Lorena Ochoa can't do: Pull off that outfit on the golf course. Lorena doesn't play barefoot, either, like Cirbie does.

Cirbie is the "rocker chick" of the "Big Break: Kaanapali" cast. Click her name just below to find our previous posts about Cirbie, one of which is a detailed bio.

Courtney Erdman

2009-04-04T04:49:00.000-07:00

California girl Courtney Erdman loves her Anaheim Ducks. But if I remember correctly from previous conversations with Courtney, she also loves the baseball team I love, the Cincinnati Reds.

Courtney played at College of the Canyons and turned pro in 2006. Last year on the Futures Tour, she made 10 of 15 cuts and was 45th on the money list. According to her "Big Break" bio, Courtney and her husband/caddie/coach Kevin travel to Futures Tour tournaments in a van that other golfers have dubbed the "Love Shack."

Tina Miller

2009-03-27T11:33:00.000-07:00

It's premiere night for "Big Break: Kaanapali" on the Golf Channel. April 15 at 10 p.m. ET, with hosts Stina Sternberg and Andrew Magee. So to celebrate, let's wrap up our series of posts on "BBK" contestants with our gorgeous friend Tina Miller.

It's been a momentous last few months for this former All-American and Futures Tour player. Tina took part in "Big Break: Kaanapali," and then she got engaged . During the series, keep an eye on Tina's journal, where she'll probably be sharing some experiences from the show.

Blair O'Neal

2009-03-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

We told you a few weeks ago that Blair O'Neal had recently completed a modeling shoot in Los Angeles, at Zuma Beach. Here's another outtake from that shoot.

Have we mentioned lately that Blair is now part of Play Golf Designs?

Claudine Foong

2009-03-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

Claudine Foong is a native of Aurora, Ontario, who is in her first full season as a professional. She played collegiately at Gardner Webb University in North Carolina, where she posted one victory and five other Top 10 finishes. She was also a four-time member of the All-American Scholar Team, majoring in public relations. Foong made the All-Conference team in 2006 and was second-team All-American in 2007.

She turned pro last year and got in a few events on the Women's Canadian Tour. In 2008, Claudine has limited status on the Futures Tour. But she has managed to pick up a sponsor - something very important for young female professionals - in clothier Quagmire Golf .

Sandra Gal Launches Web site

2009-03-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Sandra Gal Launches Web site

The photo above is from Sandra Gal's new Web site, www.sandragal.com. Gal is a native of Germany who is a rookie on the LPGA Tour in 2008. She played collegiately at the University of Florida, where she won four tournaments and was a two-time All-American in her three seasons there. In 2007, she was the No. 1-ranked European amateur. At the beginning of her senior season, she decided to enter the LPGA Qualifying Tournament, and zipped right through it, earning her full Tour card.

So she wound up leaving school a year early, but does plan on finishing her degree in advertising. The 6-footer got off to a solid start in her rookie year, making the cut in her first three LPGA events with a best finish of 25th.

Kaisa Ruuttila

2009-03-17T18:15:00.000-07:00

Kaisa Ruuttila

Minea Blomqvist is the most famous Fin in women's golf. But Kaisa Ruuttila is another Fin to keep an eye on. I'd love to read her blog, which looks like it includes some great details of Kaisa's golf, and comes complete with photos. Alas, I don't speak Finnish. If you do, check out Kaisa's Web site. If not, you can check her LET profile.

Kaisa won the 2006 Finnish Match Play Championship, and on the LET has Top 10s in the 2005 Ladies Finnish Masters and the 2007 Finnair Masters.

Tina Miller

2009-03-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo of Tina Miller taken during one of her shoots for Play Golf Designs.

If you're following Tina on "Big Break: Kaanapali," be sure to check out Tina's journal on her Web site. She's writing about her experiences on the show, including some stuff that didn't make it onto the air.

Update: Check out Tina's interview with Golf for Women blogger The Golf Gal. Tina talks about Episode 3 (where she was in the elimination challenge against Cirbie) and Episode 4 (where she had immunity).

Kristina Tucker

2009-03-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Kristina Tucker

(Photo courtesy of Neil Boyd Photography)

Congratulations to Kristina Tucker on her first career Futures Tour victory, which came this past week at the El Paso Golf Classic. Kristina is well-known for her appearance on "Big Break V: Hawaii." But don't overlook her golf. Her best finish on the Futures Tour in 2006 was third; her best finish last year - when she had non-exempt status on the LPGA Tour - was second. And now, she has that first she's been looking for. She also had an excellent U.S. Women's Open in 2006 after playing her way in through qualifying.

Courtney Erdman

2009-02-27T03:41:00.002-08:00

Courtney Erdman

Courtney Erdman was eliminated from "Big Break: Kaanapali" in the episode that aired this past Tuesday. While we wish the best for all the contestants on the show, Courtney and Tina Miller, as friends of Golf Babes, were two we were particularly pulling for. And now they are both gone, alas.

Courtney went out strong, however, making birdie on the final hole she played in the series.

In-Kyung Kim

2009-02-27T03:41:00.001-08:00

In-Kyung Kim

In-Kyung Kim opened the Ginn Tribute Hosted by Annika with a 65. Alas, she had a 76 in the second round. Still, the 65 is her best round yet in 2008, and comes on the heels of several other recent good rounds. Perhaps "I.K." is on the verge of regaining her 2007 form after a slow start to this season.

Seon Hwa Lee

2009-02-27T03:40:00.001-08:00

Seon Hwa Lee

When the final round of the Ginn Tribute began, Seon Hwa Lee was nine shots off the lead. When it ended, she was the champion.

Here's something I wouldn't have guessed: Before Seon Hwa's win on Sunday, it had been 26 tournaments since a Korean golfer won on the LPGA Tour. That golfer was ... Seon Hwa Lee. She won last year's match play tournament.

W7: Kim Hall

2009-02-17T10:01:00.001-08:00

Kim Hall is one of the "Wilhelmina 7," or W7, the group of seven LPGA Tour golfers who've signed with Wilhelmina Artist Management, a division of the famed Wilhelmina Models agency.

Kim is a graduate of Stanford, where she majored in American Studies, and where she was a three-time all-conference selection. She first earned non-exempt LPGA status in 2006. Last year, 2007, was her first year as a fully exempt member of the tour, a designation she maintains in 2008.

Last year Kim finished 76th on the money list, and had one Top 10 finish. Her second career Top 10 came earlier this year at the MasterCard Classic in Mexico. Kim's scoring average is down more than half a stroke so far in 2008 compared to 2007, and she ranks in the Top 20 in fairways through this point in the season.

W7: Mikaela Parmlid

2009-02-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

Our Wilhelmina 7 post of the day is Mikaela Parmlid. It makes sense that Wilhelmina would want to sign Mikaela - she's a player who always makes interesting (and sometimes unusual) fashion choices).

Mikaela is a Swede who played collegiate golf at the University of Southern California. She studied economics and graduated in 2003 - the same year she won the NCAA individual championship and USC won the team championship.

Mikaela's rookie season on the LPGA Tour was 2004, when she had non-exempt status. She has maintained membership since then, finishing 86th and 84th on the money in 2006 and 2007, respectively. She is 95th so far on the 2008 money list, through 11 events.

Check out her Web site.

W7: Minea Blomqvist

2009-02-17T09:59:00.000-08:00

Continuing our series on the Wilhelmina 7: Minea Blomqvist. Did you know that Minni shares the record for lowest round ever posted in a major championship (men's or women's)? And that she posted that score first? Yep, Blomqvist shot a 62 in the 2004 Women's British Open, a record later tied by Lorena Ochoa, and a score not yet posted by anyone in any of the men's majors.

Blomqvist, who is Finnish, was once asked in a "Quick 18" interview on LPGA.com:

3. Is there anything you won't eat?
Oh, I eat everything, but there is one food that doesn't go down "makasalaatikko". I don't know what that is in English.

We don't know what that is in English either. And from the sound of things, we don't want to know.

Minni turned pro in 2003 and had two strong seasons on the Ladies European Tour (rookie of the year, 2004; second on money list, 2005) before earning LPGA status in 2006. She has five international victories, but hasn't won yet in the U.S. She's off to a strong start in 2008, however, with three Top 10s, including a third and a fifth, and as of this writing is 22nd on the money list (through the Ginn Tribute).

The Royal Golf & Country Club

2009-02-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

The Course is located near Bangkok-Chonburi (Motorway) and On Nut Road, around 30 minutes from the city centre.

The majestic golf course is designed to preserve the natural environment throughout and to give golfers a scenic, yet refreshing atmosphere in which to enjoy their game surrounded by colourful flowers and shading trees.

On each step in this 18-hole course you'll encounter not only challenge but beauty for your eyes. Perfect for all standards of golfer, the course is fairly flat, has spacious greens and utilises water hazards on all holes but No 14, which in turn demands 2 very long shots on the green. A spacious clubhouse with its own hotel adds sheen for perfect after-match comforts.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72

Designer: Mr. Chohei Miyazawa
Opened:April 1993
Phone:02 73 80 131 - 7 ext. 11, 10
69 Moo 7, Sukhumvit 77(Soi On Nut)
Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan 10540

The Rosegarden Golf Club

2009-02-10T11:42:00.001-08:00

This beautiful golf course has been rated in the top 50 of the world's courses by international golf magazines. Superbly maintained and lush with mature trees and thick vegetation, the Rose Garden more than lives up to its name in substance as well as tranquility.

The course is rather flat, with narrow tree-lined fairways and heavily-bunkered greens. The par-five holes are perhaps the highlight of the round, particularly the 11th, where the player must hit to the right from the tee in order to be able to negotiate the left and dog-leg, and an extemely difficult second shot, after which a highly skilled third shot is called for. Service here is top drawer and the course has its own hotel nearby.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72

Designer:Visut Junnanont
Opened:1972
Reservation:
Tel: 02 29 53 261 - 4 02 29 46 842
53/1 Moo 4, Petchkasem Highway Road, Sam Phran
Nakhon Pathom

Almyra, Paphos, Cyprus

2009-02-10T11:36:00.001-08:00

Almyra
Poseidonos Avenue
CY-8042 Paphos
Phone: +357-26 888 700
Fax: +357-26 942 818
almyra@thanoshotels.com
www.thanoshotels.com

W7: Stacy Prammanasudh

2009-02-04T05:41:00.001-08:00

The biggest name among the "Wilhelmina 7" is Stacy Prammanasudh. Stacy P has two wins on the LPGA since joining the Tour in 2004, and has moved up the money list each year. Last year, she finished 14th. And at one point in the early part of 2007, one could make an argument that she was the best American female golfer. She was a member of the U.S. Solheim Cup team last year, too.

So far in 2008, Stacy has three Top 10 finishes in 12 starts.

W7: Anna Grzebien

2009-02-04T05:38:00.000-08:00

Continuing our series on the "Wilhelmina 7," this is Anna Grzebien. A 2007 graduate of the powerful Duke University women's golf team, Anna has non-exempt status on the LPGA Tour in 2008, her rookie year.

Anna won three team championship in college with Duke (2005-07). In 2005, she was the individual NCAA champion, and was named National Player of the Year for that season. She also won the Massachussetts Women's Open and the New England Women's Open in both 2006 and 2007.

And she'll be playing in the U.S. Women's Open this year after earning a berth in sectional qualifying earlier this week.

Amber Prange

2009-02-04T05:32:00.000-08:00

Amber Prange is one of the newest golfers in the stable of Play Golf Designs, the Las Vegas-based company that does event management and pairs up professional golfers with corporate clients, company outings and the like.

Amber is in her rookie season as a tour professional. She's playing on the Futures Tour after completing her collegiate career at the University of Washington. She had seven Top 10 finishes with the Huskies, and was a two-time All-Pac 10 honorable mention selection.

Hotel Le Saint Alexis

2009-01-26T02:54:00.001-08:00

Hotel Le Saint Alexis

Hotel Le Saint Alexis
44, route de Boucan Canot
97434 Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains
Phone: 00262-24 42 04
Fax: 00262-24 00 13
reception@hotelsantalexis.com
www.hotelsaintalexis.com

Taylor Leon

2009-01-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

The image above is from the Brooks Brothers Country Club Collection catalog. Taylor Leon recently signed with Brooks Brothers, becoming the first LPGA golfer to have an endorsement deal with the clothier.

Ms. Leon will not only represent the brand on the course but also will make her debut in the Brooks Brothers Country Club Spring 2008 catalog, which features her in a variety of active looks, notably from the recently launched ProSport range within the Brooks Brothers Country Club collection.

"Taylor is a natural fit for Brooks Brothers," said Claudio Del Vecchio, Chairman and CEO. "She demonstrates great passion and ability. We are thrilled to have her join our winning team as she embarks on her professional career."

Taylor has non-exempt status this year, her rookie season on the LPGA Tour. Thus far she has gotten into eight tournaments, with a best finish to date of 14th.

Leon was a member of the 2003 U.S. Junior Solheim Cup team and the 2006 U.S. Curtis Cup team. In two seasons at the University of Georgia, she was named All-American both years. She turned pro in 2007, and despite only getting into eight Futures Tour events last year still finished ninth on that tour's money list. She also earned her first professional victory at the 2007 Futures Tour American Systems International.

Thai Country Club

2009-01-19T15:15:00.001-08:00

Thai Country Club

This course can be reached in a 50 minutes drive. Take the Bangna-Trad Highway, Elevated Highway Exit Nr. 5. After 6 km turn left to the golf course.

Tiger Woods has won the "Honda Classic" in 1997 and celebrated in the elegant clubhouse. But this fact alone is probable not the reason for the high green-fees.

As one of the most expensive courses in Thailand, this one is accurately maintained.
The white bunkers are harmoniously integrated in the hilly fairways and the magnificent greens.

A real gem for an adequate price.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72

Designer: Denis Griffiths
Opened: 1996
88 Moo 1, Bangna-Trad Highway, KM 35,5, T.
Pimpa A., Bangpakong

Tanya Tanee Country Club

2009-01-19T15:11:00.001-08:00

Tanya Tanee Country Club

The course is situated North of Bangkok and can be reached over the elevated Airport highway. Behind the Airport take the 1. exit and continue below in the middle lanes. After e few kilometers turn left direction Laem Luka. The course is located after 11 km on the left hand side of Laem Luka Road.

An average course at a fair price. There are 3x 9 holes at course A, B and C. The fairways are usually not very long but they are quite diverse with several water hazards which require precise play. The greens are quite easy because of the huge size.

In the past few years, the once remotely located course was slowly surrounded by housing projects which narrow the view. Hundreds of flowering frangipani trees compensate for the urbanization of the area.
The clubhouse offers good Thai and international cuisine.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Length: 6.681 yards (from blue)

Designer: Dr. Sukit Khranwisai
Opened:1993
26/13 Moo 3 Tambol Ladsawai Amphur Lamlukka
Pathumthani 12150

Subhapruek Country Club

2009-01-19T15:07:00.001-08:00

Subhapruek Country Club

Formerly known as the Bangna Country Club, this conveniently-located course is very popular with Bangkok based golfers. Fairways are lined with palm trees and water comes into play on almost every hole.

This is definitely not a course for hookers and a shorter, controlled game will generally prevail over a long, errant one. From the whites, the par 4 are generally short and can offer some good scoring opportunities.

Although the par 3 are short, they are all over water and very tricky - mastering them will be the secret to a good card. The clubhouse is massive and has every facility imaginable.

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72

Designer: Pete Dye of Dye
Opened: 1993
102 Moo 7, Bangna-Trad Km.26, Bang Bo, Bangplee,
Samutprakarn 10560

Royal Lakeside Golf Club

2009-01-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

Royal Lakeside Golf Club

The course is situated at the Bang Na-Trad-Highway, shortly before Chonburi. The best route is over the Elevated Highway. Take the u-Turn at the end, after 5 km turn left (follow the signs) into the golf course.

The location of the course, directly at the mouth of the Bangpakong River, is absolute unique. Members can enter the private Yacht Club of the golf course by private boat. The large Clubhouse is amazing, its reminds of a mixture of the US Capitol and the Peters Dom of the Vatican.

The well maintained fairways are decorated with palm trees, tropical flowers and bushes and partly lead along the river.
Often strong winds from the sea provide a special kick for the game.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72

Designer: Sumitomo Construction Co., Ltd.
Opened: 1993
Lenght: 6.815 yards (from Blue)
150 Moo 3 Bangna-Trad Km 51, Tambol Takham, Amphur
Bangpakong, Chachoengsao 24130

Royal Army Sport Center

2009-01-12T17:22:00.001-08:00

The course can be reached quickly from the city by Express Way direction to the Airport and then turn into Ram Inthra Road. Shortly behind the Anutsawari Thahanasa Course lies the Army Sports Center with 2x 18-holes course on the right hand side.

The course is relatively low priced but the attractive West Course is reserved exclusively for members. The East Course has been added later and is of medium difficulty. The fairways are all very straight (not one dogleg) and got a fair amount of water hazards along the sides. The condition of the fairways and greens is excellent.

The best time to play this course is during the week because the weekends are very busy. The nearby shooting range should not distract you - as well as the Don Muang Airport.

Pinehurst Golf & Country Club

2009-01-12T17:19:00.001-08:00

Approximately 15 minutes drive from Bangkok's Airport in Northern direction is this elegant golf course with it's "North", "West" and "South" courses located.

The "North" course rather resembles a Scottish feeling, the other two are build more like their American originals.

The course has been designed for large tournaments (Johnny Walker Classics) and expectedly generous is the clubhouse with it's lodge.

Something unique: VIP golf carts with Rolls Royce outfit are available!

The clubhouse restaurant servers excellent food.

Golf Course Info: 27 Holes - Par 108

Designer:Yoshihara Aihara
Opened:1990
73 Phaholyothin Road, Km 37, Klong Luang
Phatumthanee, 12120

Panya Indra Golf Club

2009-01-12T17:15:00.000-08:00

The Panya Indra lies outside the city at the Ram Indra Road. Directly before the Outer Ring Road turn left to the golf course (signs).

Nice trees, bushes and flower beds - the 1991 opened course developed in the past years to one of the most well known golf courses in Bangkok. The 3 9-hole courses A, B and C offer the usual difficulties: undulating fairways and greens and lots of water hazards. Only bunkers are rare. Suitable for all players and handicaps. After sun set 18 holes provide flood light.

All in all, considering the good name and the relative high price, one would expect more. A typical city course with rather modest landscape. Only the luxury club house stands out.

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72

Designer:Ronald Fream Design Group Ltd.
Opened:1991
Length from blue:A: 3608 yards, B: 3652, C: 3501
99 Moo 6, Ramindra Rd. KM 9 Kannayao Bangkok 10230

The Women of "Highway 18"

2009-01-05T04:37:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Mark Ashman/Golf Channel)

Say hello to the women of Highway 18 (from left to right): Ashleigh Korzack, Ashley Davis, Keri Murphy, Jameica Duncombe and Charlotte Campbell.

What is Highway 18? It's the newest "reality golf" series from the Golf Channel, and it premieres on July 22. It will air for 10 episodes in the 10 p.m. (ET) time slot on Tuesday nights.

Think of it as "The Amazing Race" for golfers. The Golf Channel explains "the contending teams ... will race down Florida's highways, fairways and byways spanning more than 1,000 miles over 10 weekly episodes. The contestants will compete in challenges both on and off the course that will demand cooperation and ingenuity in order to survive elimination."

As for each episode's format:

Each episode of Highway 18 will feature three sets of golf challenges: a Start Challenge, a Road Challenge and a Clubhouse Challenge. Murphy will kickoff each episode by revealing the Start Challenges to the contestants, ranging from tests of skill or trivia on golf courses, beaches or a swamp.

Road Challenges can comprise either quick stops – such as target practice at a highway driving range – or well-known, but non-traditional settings, including Daytona International Speedway, Florida Field and Donald Trump’s ultra-exclusive Mar-a-Largo Club.

Clubhouse Challenges will take place at various golf destinations, ranging from famous championship venues – including TPC Sawgrass, Innisbrook and Trump International Golf Club – to municipal facilities off the beaten path. Teams will be eliminated if they finish last in two clubhouse challenges (double elimination).

Keri Murphy is familiar to Golf Babes readers as the video host on GolfNow.com. The other women pictured above are the four female contestants on the series. (There are guy contestants, too, but hey, this ain't Golf Dudes!).

We'll be featuring each of these contestants and telling you more about them as the premiere date draws closer. For now, watch the video trailer.

Tina Miller

2009-01-05T04:37:00.001-08:00

Tina Miller's focus is on golf. She's looking forward to LPGA Q-School at the end of the year. And this week she is taking part in the CVS Charity Classic in Rhode Island.

But out of the corner of her eye, Tina is also looking at modeling. And why not? The Golf Channel chose to end its "Big Break: Kaanapali" intro with a shot of bikini-clad Tina emerging from a swimming pool. Tina has the "it" factor.

The photo above is from one of Tina's first photo sessions unrelated to golf, as she continues building her portfolio.

In the meantime, Tina and husband-to-be Rhys Lloyd (NFL placekicker with the Carolina Panthers) continue planning their wedding. The location has been chosen and a date in February 2009 selected.

Check out TinaMillerGolf.com for recent updates including photos, Q&A's, journal entries and podcasts. You can also look for Tina on MySpace.

Christina Lecuyer

2009-01-05T04:36:00.000-08:00

Christina Lecuyer is one of the "final four" on "Big Break: Kaanapali," airing on the Golf Channel. The Edmonton, Ontario, native played collegiately at the University of Central Arkansas. She had some good showings on The Cactus Tour (a Phoenix/Scottsdale-based tour) earlier in the year, including fourth- and sixth-place finishes. She's also played a few Futures Tour events in 2008, with non-exempt status on that tour.

Se Ri Pak

2009-01-05T04:35:00.000-08:00

Perhaps the most surprising thing I've seen in the lead-up to the 2008 U.S. Women's Open is that Se Ri Pak is in the second group off on Thursday morning, playing with Jill McGill and Kelli Kuehne. Way to disrespect one of the greats of the game, USGA!

The lovely and talented Se Ri deserves better. And "talented" is a bit of an understatement, isn't it? She's a U.S. Open champion, a five-time major winner, a Hall of Famer, one of the all-time greats. And the fact that Se Ri is one of the nicest people out there, well, that shouldn't be overlooked, either.

And I mean no disrespect to McGill or Kuehne, whom I admire as fine players, fine professionals and fine people. But between them they have only a handful of wins, no majors. Se Ri has been struggling this year, and it's as if, with this grouping, the USGA is saying, "here, let's put her with two other players who have no chance of winning."

Shame on you, USGA. Se Ri Pak deserves better.

Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort

2008-12-29T20:12:00.001-08:00

Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort

Information & Booking

Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Indoor pool, Sauna, Gym, Tennis, Solarium, Conference room

Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort (Logo)
Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort
Bel Ombre
Phone: 00230-601-55 00
Fax: 00230-601-55 55
info@letelfair.com
www.letelfair.com

Palmerston Etna Golf Resort & Spa

2008-12-29T20:09:00.000-08:00

Palmerston Etna Golf Resort & Spa

At the “Palmerston Etna” hospitality and tradition are combined with the highest standards and especially an attentive and outstanding service will make every stay an unforgettable one.

Information & Booking

Amenities: Restaurant, Indoor pool, Sauna, Gym

Palmerston Etna Golf Resort & Spa
Ss. 120 Km. 200
I-95012 Castiglione di Sicilia
Phone: 0039-0942 986384
Fax: 0039-0942 986501
info@palmerston-etna.com
www.palmerston-etna.com

Hoteldorf Grüner Baum

2008-12-29T20:06:00.001-08:00

Hoteldorf Grüner Baum

Fünf Häuser mit 80 liebevoll ausgestatteten Zimmern, bilden am Fuße der naturbelassenen Gasteiner Bergwelt das Hoteldorf Grüner Baum. So individuell wie unsere Gäste sind auch die einzelnen Häuser. Das Hoteldorf verfügt über 70 ha großes Gesamtareal - mitten im unverbauten und autofreien Natur- und Grünlandes des Kötschachtales.

Information & Booking

Family-owned, Wellness

Amenities: Indoor pool, Sauna, Gym

Hoteldorf Grüner Baum
Kötschachtal 25
A-5640 Bad Gastein
Phone: +43-64 34 25 16-0
Fax: +43-64 34 25 16-25
urlaub@hoteldorf.com
www.hoteldorf.com

Hipotels Hotel Hipocampo Palace

2008-12-29T20:04:00.001-08:00

Hipotels Hotel Hipocampo Palace

Am elegant and luxurious five star hotel found only 150 metres away from the Cala Millor beach. Surrounded by an enormous garden area over 19.000 m2; the ideal environment for the demanding guest looking for tranquility and service quality during their holidays.

Hipotels Hotel Hipocampo Palace
Avda. S´Estanyol, s/n
E-07560 Cala Millor
Mallorca
Phone: +34 971 58 70 02
Fax: +34 971 58 70 30
hipopalace@hipotels.com
www.hipotels.com

Gallia Palace Hotel

2008-12-29T20:01:00.000-08:00

Gallia Palace Hotel

Situated within a large park 500 meters from the sea, with a well-equipped private beach with the finest white sands, the Gallia Palace Hotel is in a position of absolute exclusivity, what one would expect of a hotel created for the opening of Punta Ala at the beginning of those years known as “the fabulous sixties”.The facade of the building is considered a historic piece of architecture given that it is still preserved in 60’s style. The rebuilding and modernization, recently completed in the light-filled panoramic lobby and rooms with traditional materials and furniture, has brought back an intimate and inviting Tuscan atmosphere.

Information & Booking

81 rooms with balcony, thereof 7 suites, 4 deluxe rooms, 5 single rooms, 63 double and family rooms, park, big pool, private beach, beachclub, watersports, 2 restaurants for hotel guests only, pianobar, spa with hammam, massage and beautytreatments, fitness center, hairdresser.

Family-owned, Wellness

Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Indoor pool, Gym, Conference room

Gallia Palace Hotel
Via delle Sughere
I-58040 Punta Ala, Grosseto
Toscana
Phone: + 39 0564 92 20 22
Fax: + 39 0564 92 02 29
gallia@relaischateaux.com
www.galliapalace.it

Fashionable Paula Creamer

2008-12-29T19:59:00.001-08:00

Fashionable Paula Creamer

Golf for Women magazine this month has an article about Paula Creamer's love of fashion. The photo above is from the article. Check out the shoes. They add about 8 inches to Paula's height. They look like the spaceboots worn by members of Kiss. Read the article.

Inbee Park

2008-12-29T19:58:00.001-08:00

Inbee Park

Congratulations to Inbee Park, your 2008 U.S. Women's Open champion. Two weeks shy of her 20th birthday, Inbee is the youngest winner in the history of the tournament.

Sandra Gal

2008-12-29T19:56:00.000-08:00

Sandra Gal

Sandra Gal is another of the "Wilhelmina 7" golfers, the group of LPGA Tour players signed by Wilhelmina Artist Management, a division of Wilhelmina Models.

Gal is in her rookie season on the LPGA Tour in 2008 after qualifying through Q-School. She's had five Top 25 finishes so far in Year 1, and has already earned enough to secure her tour card again for 2009.

Jane Park

2008-12-29T19:53:00.000-08:00

Jane Park

Jane Park didn't win the P&G Beauty NW Arkansas Championship - but she came this close after starting the final round tied for 32nd, eight strokes off the lead. She wound up tied for second after shooting a 62 that included 10 birdies. That's a new career-low round for Jane, her secoind runner-up finish of 2008 and fourth Top 10 of the year.

Jane also recently announced that she would donate a portion of her winnings from each tournament to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which helps fund research into Parkinson's disease.

Navatanee Golf Course

2008-12-24T04:26:00.001-08:00

Navatanee Golf Course

The private-club Navatanee is one of the most exclusive courses in Thailand, located at the Outer Ring Road. Coming from Bangkok it can be reached in half an hour. From the Pattaya Motorway turn left into the Outer Ring Road direction Bang Pha-In.
4 km behind the toll station take the exit "Seri Thai". Right behind the exit (direction Bang Kapi) the court appears on the right hand side (U-turn).

Beautiful old trees surround the nice designed fairways. Difficult water hazards, strategically placed bunkers and quick greens are the distinguish this course.

1975 the "World Cup" was played here. Long time non members could only play on invitation from members. During week days it is now possible to play this course.

Distinguished is also the luxurious club house. The first class Thai cuisine is also part of the noblesse of this course.
Unfortunately carts are compulsory - not very beneficial for the condition of the fairways.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72

Designer:Robert Trent Jr.
Opened: 1973
Lenght: 6.902 yards (from blue)
Tel: 02-37 61 031
Fax: 02-37 61 685
22 Navatanee Serithai Rd., Kannayao, Bangkok 10230

Muang Kaew Golf Course

2008-12-24T04:21:00.001-08:00

Muang Kaew Golf Course

The course has been reopened 2002 after a complete renovation and construction of a club house. The excellent managed course is a 20 minutes drive away from the city of Bangkok over the Bangna-Trad Highway. At km 7,7 take a U-turn from the frontage Road.

The 18 holes offer a challenge for golfer of any level. The old trees provide a particular beautiful and natural environment.

During weekends and public holidays the course is usually quite crowded and early reservation is recommended.

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72

Tel: 02 31 63 918 - 21
Fax: 02 31 63 922
52 Moo8, KM 7,7 Bangna-Trad Highway, Samuthprakan 10540

Muang Ake Vista Golf Course

2008-12-24T04:17:00.001-08:00

Muang Ake Vista Golf Course

This relative short course is located 10 minutes drive from Bangkok Airport.

If you take the Elevated Airport Highway, take the 1. exit after the Airport and continue below in the middle lanes. After 3 km you will see the sign for the left turn. The course is situated behind the sister course Muang Ake GC, after 6 km at the right side.

There are six Par 3 out of the 18 holes, the longest Par 5 is just 510 yards long. The relaxed course is surrounded by canals and a few dangerous water hazards but rather moderate bunkers.

For players who are busy during the day, the course provides flood light until 21.00 h (except on Sundays).

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72

Designer: Univest Property Co., Ltd.
Opened: 1992
Lenght: 5.706 yards (von Blau)
Tel: 02-99 78 501 -6
Fax: 02-53 39 915
52/999 Phaholyothin Rd., Tambol Luk Hok, Amphur Muang,
Pathumthani 12000

Kim Welch

2008-12-21T17:29:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Kim Welch for winning "Big Break: Kaanapali." Kim defeated Sophie Sandolo, 4 and 3, in the championship match that aired this week. Now Kim can finally stop holding it in, and publicly celebrate.

Kim has two Top 10 finishes on the Futures Tour so far in 2008, including a runner-up. At the time of this writing, she ranks 11th on the money list. Her scoring average continues to drop, too. Her scoring average in 2007 was a stroke lower than in her rookie year of 2006; so far this year, it is a stroke lower than it was in 2007.

Watch for Kim in the Navistar LPGA Classic coming up in September.

Paula Creamer Goes Low

2008-12-21T17:28:00.000-08:00

Way low. All the way down to 60 low. Paula Creamer's first-round score in the 2008 Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic was 11-under 60, a score reached (or bettered) only four times previously in LPGA Tour history. Here's the list.

Highway 18: Keri Murphy

2008-12-21T17:27:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Matthew Mitchell)

This is the first of a series of posts we'll be doing this week on the women of "Highway 18," the Golf Channel series that debuts on July 22 and will air on Tuesdays for 10 episodes.

Readers of Golf Babes are familiar with Keri Murphy as the very likable, very charming video host for GolfNow.tv. Hmmm, charming and likable ... could those qualities be the reasons the Golf Channel chose Keri to host "Highway 18"?

"It was such an awesome experience," Keri said of her first assignment with the network. "The Golf Channel was looking for a new face for the show and while doing some research found me on the golfnow.tv site."

"Gorgeous" probably didn't hurt Keri's audition, either. Murphy has a long background in modeling. A two-time Miss Oregon contestant, she now runs her own agency, Wilhelmina MTG, in Portland, Oregon.

Keri has also spent quite a bit of time in front of the camera, acting in regional and national commercials and independent films. She also owns an actors' studio in Portland called The Lime Lab.

Her blooper clips from GolfNow are very popular on YouTube and even played a role in Keri landing the "Highway 18" hosting job.

"One of the producers, James Ponti, said he loved my bloopers and could tell I would not be a 'diva' to work with," she said. "If he only knew ... (just kidding!)"

Keri will also be appearing in an MTV modeling series later this year, and is heavily involved in charitable work, as well.

"We had a great time taping the show. I really hope I get to continue to work on the show and the with the Golf Channel."

Highway 18: Ashley Davis

2008-12-21T17:27:00.001-08:00

(Photo by Mark Ashman / Golf Channel)

Ashley Davis is one-half of the "Ash & Ash" team on the Golf Channel's "Highway 18," which debuts on July 22. Ashley Davis, pictured here, and Ashleigh Korzack (still to come in our "Highway 18" series) are longtime friends who grew up together in Toronto, and like to play the "ditsy blonde" part. But they are just playing.

Davis began her collegiate career at Tennessee State before finishing it at Old Dominion. She now works in business development for the United States Olympic Committee in Colorado Springs.

Davis comes from a family of athletes. Her father was a three-time All-America golfer at Ohio State University, and her grandfather, Frank Davis, is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Highway 18: Ashleigh Korzack

2008-12-21T17:26:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Mark Ashman / Golf Channel)

The partner of Ashley Davis (featured in the previous post) on the Golf Channel's "Highway 18," Ashleigh Korzack is also a Toronto native. She currently lives in Starkville, Miss., where she is a grad student at Mississippi State University and plays out of Old Waverly.

Korzack was a competitive volleyball player for several years, in addition to her pursuit of golf. That was a pursuit that began late: Korzack didn't take up golf until her junior year of high school. But she learned so quickly that she wound up earning a golf scholarship to Mississippi State.

Ji Young Oh

2008-12-21T17:26:00.001-08:00

Let's take timeout from our "Highway 18" series to congratulate Ji Young Oh for winning the LPGA State Farm Classic. Oh parred the first playoff hole to get the better of Yani Tseng.

Oh is in her second season on the LPGA Tour, and this is her first win. She won six times as an amateur on the Future Collegians World Tour in 2006, then tied for ninth in the 2006 LPGA Q-School. In her rookie season last year, Oh finished 72nd on the money list. This year, Oh had already bested last year's money total before her State Farm Classic victory.

Highway 18: Jameica Duncombe

2008-12-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

(Photo by Mark Ashman / Golf Channel)

We continue our series on the women of "Highway 18," the Golf Channel series that debuts at 10 p.m. ET on July 22, with Jameica Duncombe.

Duncombe, age 25, is a native of the Bahamas who currently lives in Coconut Creek, Fla., and plays out of Bonaventure Country Club. A marketing professional and a golf professional, Jameica is the daughter of a teaching professional. Her father, in fact, taught for many years alongside the individual Jameica is paired with in "Highway 18."

The Golf Channel bio of Jameica relates:

She started playing golf at 3, and competed in her first event at 5. By her 10th birthday, she won her first of seven Bahamian Junior Amateur tournaments and first of nine Bahamian Women's Amateur events.

Jameica left the Bahamas at 14 to attend the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy in Tampa, Fla., and became a two-time, All-North Suncoast Player of the Year her junior and senior years of high school. She attended the University of South Florida on a full golf scholarship, where she was an All-Regional NCAA selection her sophomore year. Following graduation, she won the Caribbean Amateur Championship in 2003 and competed for two years on the Duramed Futures Tour. Currently, she works in the golf marketing department for the Bahamas Tourism Board.

Muang Ake Golf Course

2008-12-15T23:26:00.001-08:00

Located near the city, this course can be reached easily. After the first exit after the Airport, leave the elevated highway. After a few kilometers follow the sign for the left turn. After a short while the golf course will appear at the right hand side. Total driving time approximately 30 minutes.

It is one of Bangkok's private clubs and looking back at a longer history. It is relatively flat but recommended for the considerable number of frontal and side water hazards. The undulated greens are spacious and provide an interesting challenge.

The clubhouse with its facilities is moderate but offers outstanding Thai cuisine.

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72

Designer: Asadang Maneerat
Opened: 1986
Tel: 02-53 39 335
Fax:02-53 39 345
52 Moo7, Phaholyothin Road, Tambol Luk Hok, Amphur Muang
Pathumthani 12000

Lakewood Country Club

2008-12-15T23:22:00.001-08:00

Aptly named, the course comprises 'Lake', 'Wood' and 'Rock' nines. The relatively flat terrain is enhanced buy a profusion of flowers and shrubs. Water features on twenty-two of the twenty-seven holes and there are perhaps more dog-leg holes at Lakewood than any other course in Thailand.

It is the clever use of water which makes so many holes play as dog-leg, particularly from the teeing ground. At the seventh hole on the 'Wood' nine, most players will opt to play their tee shot well left, in order to avoid the huge lateral water hazard which streches right across the fairway.

Golf Course Info: 27 Holes - Par 108

Designer: J. Michel Poellet
Opened: 1992
Phone:02 - 312 6276 - 7
Fax:02 - 312 6270
99/1 Moo 11, Bangnga-Trad Road, Bangchalong
Bangplee, Samutprakan

Highway 18: Charlotte Campbell

2008-12-15T23:20:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Mark Ashman / Golf Channel)

We wrap up our series on the women of "Highway 18" with Charlotte Campbell. Don't forget - the series debuts tonight (July 22) at 10 p.m. ET on the Golf Channel, and will air for nine more episodes in the same Tuesday night timeslot.

Charlotte was a dominant player at NCAA Division II Rollins, where she won 10 tournaments during her career, including back-to-back victories at the NCAA Division II National Championship tournament (2003-04). She was the NCAA Division II Player of the Year all four years at Rollins (2003-06), and Rollins won the team title all four of Charlotte's year. Yep, that's dominating.

Charlotte is teamed with her brother, Rob, for "Highway 18." The Campbells are Floridians, with Charlotte currently residing in Heathrow. Charlotte currently competes on the Futures Tour, where her rookie season was 2007.

As with most golfers playing the Futures Tour, expenses require almost as much attention as golf. But Charlotte has come up with a way to help offset her expenses, and you can easily help her develop her fledgling career.

Charlotte makes Swarovski ball marks (for the fellas - at least the ones as cloistered as me - Swarovski is a type of crystal) in a rainbow of colors - the type of ball marks you clip onto your cap, as is very popular on the LPGA Tour. She calls them "Blingo" ball marks.

If you want to buy some Blingo - use one yourself, buy a few as gifts, or inquire about corporate or bulk orders - check the Blingo Web site. Any money you spend will be helping Charlotte pursue her career.

Chris Brady

2008-12-15T23:20:00.001-08:00

Chris Brady is much smarter than me. She graduated from Vanderbilt in 2007 with degrees in civil engineering AND economics. Meanwhile, I can't even remember to put the seat down for my wife. But I digress ...

Chris has non-exempt status on the LPGA Tour in 2008, her rookie season. That status has gotten her into just four LPGA events thus far, but she's made the cut in two of them.

She took up golf at age 2, and must have started tennis around that time, too, because by age 12 she was a two-time Georgia state tennis champion in her age bracket. In addition to golf and tennis, Chris was recruited to play college basketball, and her LPGA bio says her hobbies include "slalom skiing, tennis, basketball, track, jetskiing, snowboarding and watching baseball." Makes me tired just reading it.

In golf, Chris won the 2000 North Carolina high school championship, the 2002 North Carolina Women's Amateur, was a 5-time winner in college and a 3-time All-SEC selection.

Chris turned pro in 2007, and when not competing on the LPGA can also be seen on the Futures Tour.

Seema Sadekar

2008-12-15T23:19:00.001-08:00

This is one of the photos resulting from Seema Sadekar's shoot for her new sponsor VTech Communications. VTech sponsors several other women golfers, too, including Christina Kim, Becky Morgan, Amy Hung and Alena Sharp. We'll share some more photos of Seema from this shoot in the future.

So, what has Seema, a Toronto native now living in Las Vegas, been up to since last we checked in with her? She's been having a great season on the 2008 Canadian Women's Tour, that's what. Seema finished fourth on the tour's points-based Order of Merit, while leading the tour in earnings. And the most amazing thing is, she did it all while playing in those high heels she's wearing in the photo above. (OK, I made up that part ... imagine the spike marks ...)

As a result of her Order of Merit finish, Seema earned a spot in the field at the 2008 LPGA Canadian Women's Open in August.

The Long and Short Of It

2008-12-15T23:18:00.000-08:00

Is it that Anna Nordqvist is tall, or that Ji-Yai Shin is short?

Answer: It's both! Anna and Ji-Yai pose with their trophies, the low-amateur silver plate for Nordqvist, and championship trophy for Shin, after completion of the 2008 Women's British Open on Sunday.

Shin won 10 times on the KLPGA in 2007, and four times so far this year, plus once in 2008 on the JLPGA. The Women's British Open win counts as her first victory in an LPGA tournament, but at age 20, she'll be winning plenty more. She now has membership in the LPGA Tour, too, and should be playing the LPGA full-time in 2009.

Nordqvist will be entering her junior year at Arizona State University coming up, and may well be the next big Swede on tour. She was runner-up in the British Ladies Amateur in 2006 and 2007 before winning it earlier this year.

(Oh, and Anna is 6-foot, Ji-Yai 5-foot-2.)

Krung Kavee Golf Course & C. C.

2008-12-09T12:41:00.001-08:00

Krung Kavee Golf Course & C. C.

The golf course is located 15 km from Bangkok International Airport along the Rangsit-Nakornayok Rd., a 40 min. drive from downtown.
Manabu Sakamoto has designed over 40 interesting golf courses all over the world. At the Krung Kavee he has realized the concept of "giving highest priority to environment and nature".

The relatively long Par 4's require skilled use of the wood's on the fairways. The greens are fast and many water hazards with beautiful tropical water plants require a concentrated game.

Golf Course Info: 18 Hole - Par 72
Designer:Manabu Sakamoto
Tel:02 57 74 143 -9
Fax:02 57 72 894
km 9th Rangsit-Nakornayok Rd, Klong 4,
Thanyaburi, Phrathumthanee

Krungthep Kreta Sports Club

2008-12-09T12:37:00.000-08:00

Krungthep Kreta Sports Club

One of the older Bangkok course Krungthep Kretha is a very pretty layout which has recently undergone a total rebuild. There are several hidden water hazards and numerous OB's on the course. Trees alongside nearly every fairway call for accurate tee shots. The greens , many of which are elevated, are among the truest in Thailand. A pleasant new clubhouse has been opened and the food and service are as good as ever.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:James R. Vaughn
Opened:1968
Reservation:
Phone: 02 - 37 93 717
Fax: 02 - 37 93 768
516 Krungthepkreta Road, Huamark, Bangkapi
Bangkok 10240

Kiarti Thanee Country Club

2008-12-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

Kiarti Thanee Country Club

A truly beautiful course with water everywhere you look and hit. The water and perfectly placed bunkers make this a very challenging course.

The fairways are perfectly manicured and wide. The greens play fast and are difficult to read without the proper assistance from a very good knowledgeable caddy.

The water acts as another optical on almost every hole.

Overall one of the nice golf courses in Thailand, located at Bang Na-Trad Highway (Km 27).

The clubhouse is grand and the food is good.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:	Yoshiharu Aihara
Opened:	1990
Reservation:	Phone: Fax:	02 - 70 71 700 - 9 02 - 70 71 710
199 Moo 5 Bang Bo, Samutprakharn

Rates in Thai Baht (THB)
Green Fee	Weekdays	2,100.-
Green Fee	Weekend & Holidays	2,800.-
Caddy Fee	(for 18 holes)	250.-

Maria Verchenova

2008-12-09T12:26:00.001-08:00

maria verchenova pictures

Maria Verchenova - shown above in a pose for a Russian magazine - is among the first wave of Russian golfers to make an impact on the world's major tours. Maria made it through Ladies European Tour qualifying in 2006, joining the LET for the 2007 season. She made four of 12 cuts in that rookie season, but did post her first top 10 that year. In 2008, Maria has cashed in all but one "regular" tour event she's played so far, and also qualified for her first major, the Women's British Open. She finished fifth at the Ladies Tenerife Open.

Before turning pro, Verchenova was the Russian amateur champ in 2004 and 2006, and also won the amateur championships of Austria, Latvia and Slovenia.

Johanna Head

2008-12-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

johanna head pictures

Johanna Head is part of the "Wilhelmina 7" group of LPGA golfers signed by the Wilhelmina Modeling Agency. She's the twin sister of "Big Break Kaanapali" golfer Samantha Head. And as I write this, she's in second place in the LET's Scandinavian TPC hosted by Annika.

Johanna turned pro in 1995, and in 1997 joined the predecessor to the LET. She won her first professional title in 1998, the Malaysian Open. She first gained non-exempt status on the LPGA in 2000, but competed mostly on the LET that year and returned to LPGA Q-School, where she again earned non-exempt status. In 2001 and 2002, she played about half the time on the LPGA, then in 2003 got in close to a full season. That was the first year Johanna had exempt status on the LPGA. A sixth place at the 2005 Canadian Women's Open is her best LPGA finish to date, but she has posted several LET wins during this time period.

Mindy Kim

2008-12-09T12:24:00.000-08:00

mindy kim pictures

Mindy Kim is playing the Futures Tour this season, but based on her play there she'll be a fully exempt member of the LPGA in 2009. That's because, with four tournaments remaining on the Futures Tour schedule, Mindy is second on the money list, nearly $30,000 ahead of the third-place golfer. She's guaranteed to finish in the Top 5 on the money list, thus earning her LPGA Tour card for next year.

Mindy, who turned 19 a month ago, is a native of Seoul now living in California. She turned pro in 2007, making 10 of 12 cuts on the Futures Tour.

This year has been a breakout season for Mindy, who has three Futures Tour victories - including at the Falls Auto Group Classic, completed Aug. 10 (she's holding the trophy above). She has nine Top 10 finishes in 14 starts, ranks second on the money list and second in scoring average.

In an interview posted on the Futures Tour Web site, this exchange took place:

Q: You must have really missed your parents when you won your first tournament as a pro this year in Kansas.

Kim: Yeah, I called my sister and she asked me if I made a lot of money. I said, "Not a lot, but I can get you a puppy."

Inquiring minds want to know: Mindy, have you ponied up a puppy for your sister yet?

Ekachai Golf & Country Club

2008-12-03T11:55:00.001-08:00

The best route is over the Rama 9 Bridge, direction to Samut Sakhorn. At the Outer Ring Road junction take the middle lane at the exit to Bang Kae. After a few kilometers you will reach the exit to Samut Sakhorn. After another 7 km turn right after a klong Bridge. Total driving time around 50 minutes.

The course offers 3 x 9 holes with a lot of water hazards at the B-Course. Here precise play is required because there is always water to the right or left. Course A and B got flood-light and makes it possible to add a round in the evening (not every day).

The generous sized clubhouse offers excellent Thai cuisine.

Golf Course Info: 27 Holes - Par 108
Designer:	Gray Gerry Nazch
Opened:	1982
Reservation:	Tel: Fax:	02-41 65 557 -8 02-41 65 559
8 Moo 5, Ekachai Road, Tambon Bangnamchued, A. Muang Samutsakorn 74000

Prices in Thai Baht (THB)
Green Fee	Weekdays	700.-
Green Fee	Weekends & Holidays	1,400.-
Caddy Fee	(for 18 Holes)	200.-

Green Valley Country Club

2008-12-03T11:53:00.001-08:00

The course is located near the city at the Bangna-Trad-Highway - approximately 30 minutes drive from the Silom Road. There are several other beautiful golf courses nearby - Green Valley is one of the oldest am most popular courses.
The course requires accurate drives - the most fairways are defined by water hazards and got slopes. Another score-killer are the quick greens.

The clubhaus restaurant servers excellent Thai, European and Japanese cuisine. The pool and sauna with Jacuzzi and Thai massage offer relaxation after the game.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:	Robert Trent Jones. Jr.
Opened:	1988
Reservation:	Phone: Fax:	02 - 31 25 883 -9 ext.105 02 - 31 25 890
92 Moo 3 Bangna-Trad Rd. Km. 15 Bangplee Samutprakarn 10540

Rates in Thai Baht (THB)
Green Fee	Weekdays	2,000.-
Green Fee	Weekend & Holidays	3,000.-
Caddy Fee	(for 18 holes)	250.-

Chuan Chuen Golf Club

2008-12-03T11:51:00.001-08:00

The course can be reached relatively easy from the city. At Chang Wattana Highway outbound appears after 25 km the exit Si Saman, leading into the 307, which turns right after 6 km. After another 300 m the course is situated at the left hand side.
This very pleasant course is suitable for all skill levels. Well maintained fairways, usually embanked by side water hazards, require straight shots. The greens are fast but not undulated.

All in all a very attractive course, golf with style in midst nice nature close by the city of Bangkok. A lot of old trees and rich bird population make a golf day to a good experience. A generous club house provides all facilities and a restaurant with excellent Thai food.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:	Nick Faldo
Opened:	1997
Lenght:	6.747 yards (from blue)
Reservation:	Tel: Fax:	02-59 82 839 - 9 02-59 82 879
719 Akhan Mankong, Tanon Bantat Thong, Pathumwan Bangkok 10330

Prices in Thai Baht (THB)
Green Fee	Week days	860.-
Green Fee	Week end & holydays	1,450.-
Caddy Fee	(for 18 holes)	200.-

Bangpakong Riverside Country Club

2008-12-03T11:48:00.001-08:00

Thailand's first riverside course measures 6,683 yards with bunkers found around landing areas and greens.
The river whips round the course and weaves into some holes. Thick rough impinges, even though fairways appear wide.
Strong winds can add extra yardage, particularly so on the par three holes where players have to contend with water carries.

Clubhouse facilities are good and there is a good choice of hotels in neighboring Chonburi, and the coastal resort of Bang Saen.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:	Chird Booyaratevej
Opened:	1990
Reservation:	Tel: (038) 513-523-5 Fax: (038) 513-526
9 Moo 2, Bangkok-Chachengsao Road, Saenpudart, Banpoh, Chachengsao

Rates in Thai Baht (THB)
Green Fee	Weekdays	1,450.-
Green Fee	Weekend & Holidays	2,500.-
Caddy Fee	(for 18 holes)	250.

Jeong Jang

2008-12-03T11:47:00.001-08:00

Another excellent season in progress for JJ. Jang currently stands ninth on the LPGA money list, seventh in scoring average, ninth in Player of the Year points. She's still looking for LPGA win in '08, but has been runner-up three times and third-place twice.

Henrietta Zuel

2008-12-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Henrietta Zuel - who may still be better-known to some under the name she used to go by, Henni Brockway - had the best showing of her very young professional career in the Ladies European Tour S4C Wales Ladies Championship. Zuel was the second-round leader, and finished tied for third, one stroke off the lead.

Henrietta first played LET events at the age of 16. She won the 2007 British Girls Championship and turned pro at age 18.

Katherine Hull

2008-12-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

Katherine Hull won the Canadian Women's Open for her first LPGA Tour victory. It was Hull's third Top 10 finish of 2008 and jumped her into the Top 20 on the LPGA money list.

Katherine is one of the Aussies on tour. She was part of Australia's winning team at the 2002 World Team Championships. She played collegiately for Pepperdine, where she was a two-time first-team All-American selection, won eight tournaments, was named 2003 NCAA Player of the Year and won the Dinah Shore Award in 2003.

She turned pro in 2003 and headed to the Futures Tour, where she quickly won twice - including her very first tournament as a pro. Later that year at Q-School, Katherine earned non-exempt status for the LPGA, and 2004 was her rookie season.

In that rookie season, her best finish was sixth; and in 2005, she had a runner-up. Both years Katherine was inside the Top 70 on the LPGA money list. But 2006 was a struggle, with only five cuts made. She rebounded in 2007, finishing 60th on the money list, and is having a breakout 2008.

Below, Hull (left) hangs out with fellow golfer Catherine Cartwright prior to a New York Mets game.

(Photos via LPGA.com)

Lotta Wahlin

2008-12-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

Lotta Wahlin is having a great season on the Ladies European Tour: Seven Top 10s, three wins, including her playoff victory at the Wales Ladies Championship this past weekend.

Lotta, from Linkoping, Sweden, has consistently improved in each of her seasons on the LET. She finished third on the Telia Tour Order of Merit in 2005, earning LET membership. In her first full LET season, 2006, she was 39th on the money list. In 2007, she moved up to 21st on the strength of seven Top 10s. And this year has notched her first LET victories and currently stands fifth on the Order of Merit.

Golf Resort Konopiště

2008-11-04T15:22:00.001-08:00

Golf Resort Konopiště, Benešov, Czech Republic

The 27 holes, planned by John Burns, are situated in Prague. The course is famous for its hilly fairways and its wooded and very long courses. The greens are very and are compared with the best greens of the world. The Public Course with 9 holes ist also open to golf enthusiasts without course maturity.

Golf Resort Konopiště
Bystřice-Tvoršovice 27
CZ-25601 Benešov
Phone: +420 317 784 044
gcko@gcko.cz
www.gcko.cz

Alpine Golf & Sports Club

2008-11-04T15:17:00.001-08:00

The course can be reached in around 50 minutes driving time, using the elevated highway past the Bangkok Airport. At the end of the elevated part, it leads into road No. 1. Behind the Pinehurst Golf Course take a left turn into road No. 3214 (direction Khlong Luang), after 8 km until you pass the Outer Ring Road. After 1 more km take a left turn and continue 5 km to the golf course (right hand side).

This course is perhaps the most fine course in Thailand, dreamlike maintained and with beautiful sights. Each one of the 18 holes is a unique photo motive and one should not forget to enjoy the visual experience.

In the year 2000 the course was the venue for the Johnnie Walker Classic (won by Tiger Woods). In 2004 it will be organized again.

Golf Course Info:18 Holes - Par 72
Designer: Ronald M. Garl
Opened: 1996
Reservation:
Tel: 02-57 73 333
Fax: 02-57 77 100

99 Moo 9, Khan Satani, Vitthayu Road, Tambol Klong 5
Amphur Klong, Luang, Phatumthani 12120

Bangkok Golf Club

2008-11-04T15:13:00.001-08:00

This high class golf course is located in Pathumthani, around 50 minutes drive from Silom or Sukhumvit Road in Northwest direction.

A lot of water, many bunkers and quick greens - a demanding course for good golfers. A special attraction: The 8. fairway 560 m, Par 5, HCP 1) got an elevated green in front of an artificial water fall.

The club house with well equipped pro shop and a restaurant offering Thai, Chinese, Japanese and European cuisine.

Golf Course Info: 18 Holes - Par 72
Designer:Gerd Boonyarattanvej
Opened:1993
Reservation:
Phone: 02 50 12 828
Fax: 02 50 12 810

99 Moo2, Tiwanon Road, Bangkadi, Pathumthani 12000

Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa

2008-11-04T15:02:00.001-08:00

Luxurious Golf Resort in beautiful nature - ATN Recommendation!

Location:
The resort is located in splendid natural environment. directly at the foot of the Khao Yai National Park mountains. The quietness and remoteness of this place give it a unique ambience.

Coming from Bangkok, take the route through the National Park, via Nakhon Nayok (3 1/2 hours) or via the Friendship Highway (2 ½ hours)

Facilities:
2-story buildings are distributed in midst the nature. A pool with whirr pool with nice panorama view over the 10th fairway is placed in the middle. A stylish restaurant offers excellent Thai and international cuisine. Breakfast buffet is served at the nearby club house restaurant.

Accommodation:
The Plantation View Rooms are located at ground floor and offer the view of the title image above. The Horizon View Rooms are located at the upper floors and provide a panorama view over the golf course.
All rooms are comfortable furnished and offer bath/WC with separate shower, A/C, Tel., Sat-TV, balcony and mini bar.

Jodi Ewart

2008-11-04T15:01:00.000-08:00

It's been a great summer for English amateur Jodi Ewart, if you don't count the British weather:

She was a member of the Great Britain & Ireland team taking on the U.S. in Curtis Cup at The Old Course.

She was a member of Team England at the European Team Championships, and set a course record during the competition.

She successfully defended her title in the English Ladies Stroke Play Championship, coming from seven strokes down in the final round to win in a playoff.

She played in a professional tournament for the first time, making the cut (and tying Laura Davies) in the LET Wales Ladies Championship.

As for that British weather, Jodi won't have to worry about it soon enough: She's due back in Albuquerque for her junior season at the University of New Mexico, where she is the two-time WAC Player of the Year.

Below is an interview with Jodi after her title defense at the English Stroke Play.

So-Hyun Park

2008-11-04T14:59:00.000-08:00

So-Hyun Park will soon embark on her sophomore season as a member of the Notre Dame women's golf team. Her freshman season? Only perhaps the best in the history of the school's women's golf program.

A native of Seoul who attended high school in Florida while working with Leadbetter instructors, So-Hyun became the first-ever All-American golfer for Notre Dame's women's program following the 2007-08 season.

So-Hyun set the school record for scoring average, posted the second-best tournament score in school history, and the third-best rounds in school history last season. She was named All-Big East Conference. She finished in the Top 7 in nine of her 11 tournaments last year, including two victories and four runners-up.

The Notre Dame athletics Web site describes her as "a special player that wants to help the Notre Dame program reach unprecedented heights ... a very focused and motivated golfer ... a very consistent golfer who hits a lot of quality golf shots that allows her to be more aggressive on the course."

Cristie Kerr

2008-11-04T14:58:00.000-08:00

(Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier)

It was career win No. 11 for Cristie Kerr at the LPGA Safeway Classic. Kerr bested Helen Alfredsson and Sophie Gustafson in a playoff, after getting into the playoff with a closing round of 65 (the best round of the day). It's the first win of the year for Cristie, who is closing strong after what was - by her lofty standards - a lackluster first half of the season. Since mid-May, Kerr has finished no lower than 21st, and has five Top 10s in that span.

Minea Blomqvist

2008-11-04T14:57:00.000-08:00

Minea Blomqvist is a LPGA Tour player these days, but you know she's going home every year for the LET's Finnair Masters in Finland. And this year she went home and won the tournament. Minea beat fellow Finn Ursula Wikstrom by one stroke, birdying the final hole.

"Hopefully we are going to have a big party. Everyone is welcome!" she said after winning.

Woo-hoo! Party at Minnie's place!

Amy Lepard

2008-11-04T14:56:00.000-08:00

Amy Lepard is the wife of PGA Tour golfer and Ryder Cup team member Chad Campbell, and Chad and Amy are now the proud parents of their first child, son Dax Phillip Campbell.

Amy is a singer/songwriter. You can check out some of her tunes on MySpace Music at myspace.com/amylepardmusic.

Congrats to Chad and Amy!

True North Golf Club in Harbor Springs among Michigan's best golf courses, reader says

2008-10-28T07:16:00.001-07:00

True North Golf Club of Harbor Springs, Mich., is a fabulous golf course. The greens are amongst the best I have ever played, including anything in Arizona or Las Vegas.

The layout is stunning hole after hole, with elevation changes both up and down, and it is challenging from any set of tees.

I paid $95, and it goes to $130 on July 1, but I would pay this any day compared to any of the courses at Boyne Highlands Resort for the same money.

The only drawback was it's a little off the normal golf course path, but it is absolutely a hidden gem.

I don't think they are anywhere near getting enough members to go private as there is still not a single house built, and we were amongst only two to three other foursomes on a Thursday in mid June.

I have played them all in the Petosky/Harbor Springs area, including the golf courses in Bay Harbor, and this is at the top of the list, with Black Lake Golf Club being a close second.

Rate: 5
Design: 5 (Great design and use of the terrain.)
Service: 3
Condition: 5 (Immaculate greens and everything finely trimmed right up to the boundaries of the course.)
Facilities: 3 (Club house nothing special and very basic food and beer choices.)

Greywalls Golf Course at Marquette Golf Club

2008-10-28T07:10:00.001-07:00

Greywalls Golf Course is the newer of two golf courses at Marquette Golf Club in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It's entirely different from the classic original course, playing on rugged and rocky land and features some very dramatic holes.

It was designed by golf course architect Mike Devries, who is a Michigan native and interned under Tom Doak. Devries has a similar minimalist approach, moving very little land here. That's apparent, as there are few flat lies to be found and the course can make a golfer's first time here a little uncomfortable, especially considering some of the course's most difficult holes come right out of the gate.

Many of the holes play on high ground and bring in views of Lake Superior. It also means the winds can pick up often around here, and coupled with fescue and bluegrass, can play much like a links-style design, though this is a golf course that hardly looks "traditional".

Timber Ridge Golf Club in Lansing: The unexpected height of central Michigan golf

2008-10-28T07:07:00.001-07:00

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Standing on the tee, looking 80 feet down at a rolling fairway, only seeing trees and a green tucked back up another hill in the shadows, you suddenly want to check one of those GPS systems.

No, not to see how far you have to hit the ball to get above the dip in the fairway. Rather, to make sure that you're still anywhere near Lansing's capital region.

Tom Tom, where oh where did you bring me?

The 10th hole at Timber Ridge Golf Club brings about the kind of elevation change you expect to see in a Las Vegas or a Tucson. At the very least, it looks like it belongs among Northern Michigan's towering, tree-top, up-and-down courses. This is central Michigan, though, minutes away from Michigan State's bustling 40,000-plus student campus, an area where everything is flat (except for the co-eds who got some enhancement surgery as a high school graduation gift).

Except at Timber Ridge. This Jerry Matthews design brings the hills into Lansing area golf. No. 14 is another hole with a towering view from a big ridge tee. All you see are trees stretching out below you. All your hear are birds chirping away.

If this is golf gone to the birds, you're more than fine with that.

"It's like you've been dropped off in the middle of nowhere," local Tom Jacobson, a first-time Timber Ridge player, said. "I had no idea there even was scenery like this so close to my home."

Yes, Timber Ridge can be a welcome jolt for even people who've lived in this area for years.

Even better, it is one of the least pretentious - and most inexpensive - good golf courses you'll ever play. Timber Ridge's greens fee maxes out at $56 with cart (you can play for $46 walking) during summer-high season. Its summer twilight rate is only $37. And this is one course with a staff that goes out of its way to treat its twilight customers with respect, rather than the second-class, second-citizen approach too many courses take in dealing with golfers seeking a discount.

On the day of this play, golfers were still putting out at 9:15 p.m., not being rushed at all by Timber Ridge's staff, even as Michigan's late summer sun all but completely faded.

Timber Ridge is the type of golf course that actually grows the game. It's hard to leave here not feeling good about golf - even if you're not feeling so good about the shots you hit into the trees.

There aren't a ton of forced carries, but when Matthews does introduce water, it's a real danger. Take No. 16; this downhill par 3 puts water in front of a big, sloped, sideways green that actually tilts toward the wet stuff. Short and on can still mean in the pond as you helplessly watch your ball roll down from back on the tee box.

Timber Ridge can be as unconventional as a pair of Ian Poulter's pants. There are short par 4s that give you a real chance at birdie (like the 310-yard 12th). There are plenty of climbs uphill - starting with No. 3, a hole that swerves around a lake and puts you right below a hulking house that lords over the green.

This course doesn't beat you up with distance (it's 6,595 yards from the back tees, and no par 5 measures longer than 545 yards). Timber Ridge doesn't try to beat you up, period. Its 144 slope rating is somewhat deceiving. This is a fun course and anything but root canal golf.

Timber Ridge Golf Club: The verdict
If you're in Lansing for business, or East Lansing to see a Michigan State football or basketball game, you'll want to make time to play Timber Ridge. It's much better than its neighbor that's almost equally highly rated in many golf magazines, Eagle Eye Golf Club.

You're not completely lost in the woods by any stretch at Timber Ridge. There are a few houses around parts of the course. But it often feels like you're deep in the woods. Cart rides in-between holes can take you through stretches where the trees are so thick they almost block out the sun.

About the only annoying thing about Timber Ridge is a GPS system on the carts that often acts like an overbearing mother. You'll get messages about following the 90 degree - even if you've been following the 90 degree rule. You'll get way-off reports on your playing pace even when there is no group close to you. It could have been a temporary cart glitch.

Either way, it's not going to temper your enjoyment of Timber Ridge. Not when the actual humans in the clubhouse are so nice, and the golf's so fine.

You pass right by exclusive private course Walnut Hills Country Club - the former site of an LPGA Tour event - on the road to Timber Ridge. But there's no need to envy the golfers on those fairways. Not when you're getting to play as high as it gets in central Michigan golf.

Michigan State-area hotels
There's a Marriott right in the heart of East Lansing that puts you smack dab in the middle of the student nightlife scene (yes, most golfers hate to see tipsy coeds), while still giving you a business hotel retreat with a pretty good hotel restaurant in Bistro 43.

New Sweetgrass Golf Club at the Island Resort "sweetens" golf in Michigan's UP

2008-10-28T07:01:00.000-07:00

Island green? Check. Waterfalls? Check. Fescue? Check. Swerving, who-knows-where-your-ball-is-going greens? Check. Old historic bridges? Check.

That sounds like a list of all the different things you might want in one golf trip. You can find them all, however, in one new golf course in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The very ambitious Sweetgrass Golf Club at the Island Resort & Casino, which recently opened, packs all those obstacles into its 7,273 yards.

Set on 320 acres on Hannahville Indian land in a largely unspoiled nature region, Sweetgrass is a design from Michigan architect Paul Albanese that's geared toward making this spot a genuine golf destination. Two hours from Green Bay, three and a half hours from Milwaukee and five and a half hours from Chicago, Sweetgrass and the Island Resort definitely offer a secluded getaway.

The goal is to make it a retreat that will bring golfers close and far.

For Sweetgrass is not opening as just a stand-alone golf course. Island Resort is offering stay-and-play packages that include the chance to play the highly-rated Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club and TimberStone Golf Club as well. It's the three golf courses as a combination that could vault this area into the upper echelon of Michigan's often underrated golf scene.

Greywalls, TimberStone and Sweetgrass Golf Club are all within an hour of each other, which qualifies as a very short commute in this part of Michigan.

"With Greywalls, Timberstone and Sweetgrass, that's three top-notch places to play," Sweetgrass Director of Golf Dave Douglas said. "It's a reason to come and golf here."

Douglas grew up in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and has spent his golf career in the region too. This Yooper (that's what many people in the U.P. proudly call themselves) is seeing a drastic change in the golf in his home region.

"It's building to a lot more upscale golf area," Douglas said. "The majority of golfers we're seeing now travel in from outside the region to come in and play. It's definitely more of a destination."

Which doesn't mean it's become expensive yet - especially by the standards of other golf hot spots.

Two nights at the Island Resort & Casino and three rounds of golf broken up any way you wish (you can play one on each of the three courses, all three on Sweetgrass or whatever combination you choose that adds up to three rounds) starts at $229 per person in double occupancy packages.

Sweetgrass itself is starting out charging a $75 greens fee, though that drops to $56 if you sign up for the casino's frequent-player card. For that you get a golf course with some ultra wide fairways (a few are more than 80 yards across) that will probably look older than it is. That's in no small part because a number of old Michigan bridges have been rescued from planned destruction and placed around the course.

So much for cookie cutter.

"It kind of has a links appearance," Douglas said. "But it's obviously not a true links course."

The tall fescue grass and the water (wet stuff's on 10 of the 18 holes) add another dimension to Sweetgrass, the course where they seemingly tried to fit everything in. The Island Resort already has a 1,300-seat auditorium and 275 rooms from a major 2005 expansion. Now the plan is for the golf course to help fill those rooms and draw people to the casino and the Upper Peninsula in general.

As with many Native American Indian courses, the sheer amount of space at Sweetgrass can catch golfers by surprise.

"It's very playable with very generous fairways," Douglas said. "There are 47 acres of fairways here. On a typical golf course there is about 28-30 acres of fairways. So there's almost 50 percent more fairway space than your average course. You have a great chance to get a good drive out there and put yourself in a good position."

Two nearly 10-foot waterfalls running near the shared ninth and 18th green have already made for a nice conversation starter. Both No. 9 and No. 18 are par 5s at Sweetgrass.

"Nine and 18 are really unique," Douglas said. "It's a tiered pond with a number of falls in-between each tier."

Still, the par-3 15th island green figures to have golfers talking the most. It's only 165 yards from the back tees, going to as short as 100 yards from the forward tees, but the water's there to make it seem much longer.

Albanese also served as the lead architect on TimberStone, a Jerry Matthews design which received five stars from Golf Digest when it opened. Now Timberstone has company, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula could have a much stronger golf draw.

Janell Howland

2008-10-28T07:00:00.001-07:00

I know nothing about fashion - golf or otherwise - but I know great golf pants when I see 'em. And those are great golf pants. Janell Howland was wearing them in Lafayette earlier this year, where she was defending champion in the Futures Tour tournament played there.

Janell is heading to California next week to play in the LPGA Q-School sectional qualifier at Mission Hills Country Club (Dinah Shore Course) in Rancho Mirage. She'll be trying to get back to the LPGA Tour, of which she was a member in 2005.

She also just launched her Web site. Check it out at janellhowland.com.

Shiho Oyama

2008-10-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

Shiho Oyama is a Japanese player ranked No. 43 in the official world rankings as of this writing. She has played almost exclusively on the JLPGA up to now - although she did share the lead in the 2008 U.S. Women's Open at one point - but is in California this week taking part in the LPGA Q-School sectional.

Cheyenne Woods

2008-10-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

Cheyenne Woods - the niece of you-know-who - has started her collegiate golf career at Wake Forest University. She did pretty well in her first tournament, too, making the playing roster as a freshman and contributing some solid scores. Wake Forest finished ninth in the 2008 Fall Season opener, the NCAA Preview, and Cheyenne's 74 lead the team in the final round. Woods posted 75-76-74--225 and finished just outside the Top 25.

The Associated Press released an article about Cheyenne's college debut today. She'll always draw attention because of who her uncle is, and the fact that she is pretty good at the same sport in which he is the all-time best. But here's hoping Cheyenne isn't overburdened with outsized expectations, that she is allowed to grow and develop as a golfer and a person at her own pace, and to her own drummer. (Her nose and belly-button piercings might be indicators she's doing a good job of that already.)

(More photos here.)