Schmidt-Curley Master-Planned Mission Hills Golf Club (China) Named 'Best Golf Resort' by Asian Golf Monthly

Schmidt-Curley Design today announces that Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen, China -- master-planned by principals Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and featuring ten courses designed or co-designed by the firm -- was voted "The Best Golf Resort in Asia" by Asian Golf Monthly magazine.

The Pete Dye and Olazabal Courses at Mission Hills were also recognized by the magazine as the "Best New Course in Asia" and "No. 2 Course in China," respectively. Schmidt-Curley collaborated with the designer-legend on his namesake credit, and are the architects of record on the Olazabal Course, which recently hosted a top-flight international field for the OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup.

On the heels of opening a new full service office in Haikou, Hainan Island, China, Schmidt-Curley was also voted the "No. 2 Golf Course Architecture Firm" in Asia by the magazine. With an established 15-year presence in the Asian golf industry, the satellite office provides enhanced professional, administrative and logistic support for its ever-increasing portfolio of overseas projects.

"Lee and I are both honored that our work in Asia, and specifically our work at Mission Hills, has once again been recognized by Asian Golf Monthly," says Curley. "Our ranking above renowned names such as Nicklaus, Player, and Norman speaks volumes about the quality of our designs and the customer satisfaction they continue to stimulate."

Working closely with Dr. David Chu and son, Ken Chu, Schmidt and Curley developed the master-plan for Mission Hills' 12 golf courses, practice facilities and clubhouses in the 1990s when golf was in its embryonic stage in China. Over the past decade and a half, the firm has overseen the design and construction of each of the club's vaunted layouts.

The Dye and Olazabal courses are two remarkable feathers in a rapidly expanding Asian design cap.

The Pete Dye Course, the first Dye design in Asia, offers a marked departure from Mission Hills' other 11 designs. Dye trademarks are all present and accounted for throughout the par-72, 6,800-yard layout, including small pot bunkers, long tee-to-green waste areas, railroad ties used as sleepers and walkway steps framed by tall native grasses to provide a sharp, visual contrast.

The Olazabal Course is a par-72, 7,251-yard layout, sprinkled with nearly 160 bunkers and marked by significant elevation changes that yield numerous majestic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The signature hole is the 555-yard, par-5 15th, a right-to-left dogleg that features 26 bunkers while curling around a large lake. The 18th is also particularly strong, a 460-yard, par-4 that, like 15, has its left flank menaced by water from tee to green. A stern test, the track is slated to host the OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup through 2018.

The firm's award-winning Asian credits also include Amata Spring G.C. in Chonburi, Thailand. Amata, named Asian Golf Monthly's Best New Course in Asia for 2006, will for the third straight year host the Royal Trophy, a "Ryder Cup" format competition involving teams from Europe and Asia, captained by Seve Ballesteros and Jumbo Ozaki, respectively.

Other acclaimed Schmidt-Curley designs include Agile C.C. (North Course) in Zhongshan, China, named one of the top five courses in China by Golf Digest in 2004, and Chiang Mai Highlands G.C., the # 3 course in Asian Golf Monthly's 2006 "Best New Course" ranking.

Also of great importance to the firm's success are the contributions of its sister company, Flagstick Golf Course Construction Management.

The challenges an owner faces to construct a golf course on time, on budget, and to world-class standards are daunting, which makes Flagstick's range of services invaluable. Flagstick's pre-construction preparation ensures that clients will have a precise understanding of the overall construction process, which reduces the inherent risks involved in the project and maximizes efficiency and project execution, making it more rewarding for all involved. Additionally, Flagstick's ability to manage the myriad administrative tasks associated with any golf course construction project, such as staffing, budgeting and scheduling, is unmatched.

Schmidt-Curley is presently engaged with projects in South Korea, China, Thailand, and Vietnam, the latter of which is located near the famous Cu Chi tunnels on the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

For more information, visit www.schmidt-curley.com or call 480.483.1994.

About Schmidt-Curley Design, Inc.

Founded by partners Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Schmidt-Curley is a full-service, international golf-course architecture and master-planning firm with more than 100 layouts in 24 countries, including the U.S., Thailand, China, Sweden, Vietnam, Mexico, Egypt, Sweden, and Korea. The tandem is responsible for crafting 10 of the 12 courses at storied Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen, China -- the largest golf complex in the world.

At Mission Hills, Schmidt-Curley teamed with long-time partner Nick Faldo, as well as Ernie Els, Jose Maria Olazabal, David Duval, Annika Sorenstam, Vijay Singh, David Ledbetter and Jumbo Ozaki to create a golf experience unlike any other globally. Other high profile, award-winning projects from Schmidt-Curley include Bali Hai and Siena Golf Clubs (Las Vegas), Amata Spring Golf Club (Chonburi, Thailand, host of The Royal Trophy), Terra Lago Golf Club (Indio, California, site of the Skins Game for four years) Twin Creeks Golf Club (Cedar Park, Texas), and Crosby National Golf Club (Rancho Santa Fe, California).

Schmidt-Curley has also worked extensively with golf's biggest names -- including Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Fred Couples and Faldo on numerous high-profile projects. Producing demanding yet beautiful and enjoyable courses, Schmidt-Curley strives to create golf experiences that stir the senses and elevate golfers' appreciations for the land and the game. By balancing classic golf course architecture with ever-changing contemporary technology, Schmidt-Curley places an emphasis on site-adaptive courses, memorable and enjoyable for all levels of play and always designed for cost-efficient maintenance and operations.

Breadsall Priory Country Club - Derby, England

Located on 400 acres of parkland in the heart of England, Breadsall Priory Country Club offers 36 holes of challenging golf for players of all skill levels. It is set on the grounds of a 13th century estate with incredible views of the surrounding countryside. In 2003, Breadsall Priory hosted the Euro-Pro Tour.

To reserve a tee time at Breadsall Priory Country Club, please click here.

Adjacent to the golf club is the Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel, offering the subtle charm of the original 13th century residence along with modern luxurious accommodations and amenities such as a pool, fitness center and health spa. Discover more about the historic elegance of the Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel.

English Golf Resorts: Meon Valley Country Club - Meon Course, Southampton, England

Another championship course to visit during your English golf holiday. Meon Valley Country Club is sure to please. Check it out below:

Hamilton Stutt designed the 18-hole championship Meon Course, which successfully hosted the Philips PGA Senior European Tour Championships in 1998 and 1999. Located on beautiful undulating Hampshire countryside and cut through an ancient English oak forest, the course features many tight tree lined fairways, large bunkers and numerous water hazards. Every hole on the Meon Course offers a challenging test of golf to discerning golfers of all standards.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Hamilton Stutt
* Yardage: 6,520
* Par: 71

Golf Resort & Spa Vacations: Golf Travel by Travelocity

Hey gang, just a little heads up. Travelocity is offering what they call "Putt and Pamper" packages which are essentially golf resort vacation deals. They normally will put together the airfare and accommodations for you and all you basically have to do is show up. From what I've been seeing, it sounds like there are some pretty good deals for those of you that may be planning a holiday or vacation to a golf resort or golf club in an exotic or international destination. Your best bet would be to check out what they have. You can get there by clicking on the link below.

Tee Time and Me Time: Golf and Spa Resorts

England Golf Resorts: Forest of Arden Country Club

Were specifically referring to the Aylesford Course in Meriden, England. The Forest of Arden - Aylesford Course is a jewel. Set on 10,000 acres of parkland in the heart of the Midlands, this distinctive Warwickshire hotel is close to the motorway & rail networks, and is just 10 minutes from Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC). But did we mention golf?

Complementing the Arden Course is the recently redesigned Aylesford Course, which offers golfers of all abilities an enjoyable challenge. Kept to the same high standard as the Arden Course, the Aylesford is shorter in length but remains a test for golfers of all abilities.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Donald Steel
* Yardage: 5,801
* Par: 69

Worsley Park Country Club, Manchester, England

If you ever have the pleasure to visit Manchester, England and you're not too busy after catching a Manchester United footie game, give yourself the opportunity to play Worsley Park. Marriott's Worsley Park Country Club was designed by Ross McMurray and opened in 1999. It has been built to USGA specifications and has utilized the natural contours of the terrain. The indigenous water features create a challenging layout to suit golfers of all skill levels. At 6,797 yards from the back tees, the Worsley Park Course possesses many memorable holes, including the signature 7th hole consisting of a short par three over a lake, surrounded by colourful woodland.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Ross McMurray
* Yardage: 6,611
* Par: 71

Rocky Gap Honored with Greens of Distinction Award

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort - home to the state's only Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed golf course - today announces Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine has honored the facility with its prestigious Greens of Distinction award. This marks the fourth time Rocky Gap has received the highest commendation.

For the Greens of Distinction, subscribers select hotels, resorts and conference centers that are committed to their golf courses, meeting facilities, food and beverage offerings and consistent customer service. The winners received high marks in overall facilities and amenities, hospitality, golf course conditions and design, tournament and teambuilding arrangements and golf staff assistance.

"We are extremely proud of all we do here at Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort and accepting awards such as the Greens of Distinction provides further evidence that we have our guests in mind in every aspect of the resort," says General Manager Tim Grambley. "Whether it's on the golf course, in the restaurants, spa or with our corporate and meetings guests, we're committed to excellence."

Winners of the Greens of Distinction award were determined as a result of an open ballot issued with the May issue of Corporate & Incentive Travel. Rocky Gap is among a very select group of only 46 winners nationwide this year, including Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club and Lodge, Kiawah Island Golf Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Winners were honored and presented with an engraved plaque at a black-tie gala in New York Nov. 10.

Corporate & Incentive Travel - an industry trade publication targeted at professionals who plan corporate meetings and incentive programs - focuses on site selection, accommodations and transportation, current legislation, conference, seminar and training facilities, budget and cost controls, and destination reports, and more.

Rocky Gap was also recently named an AAA Four-Diamond resort for the seventh consecutive year.

In addition to the championship golf course, luxurious spa and fine dining options, the popular multi-amenity resort offers:
215 guest rooms, including suites and ADA-certified accommodations
Extensive meeting programs encompassing 15,000+ square feet of banquet and meeting space and numerous service options
Family and children's activities: horseback riding, paintball, climbing wall, rappelling, whitewater rafting, canoeing and a Scales & Tales animal program by the campfire
Corporate team building programs through Western Maryland Adventures
Special weddings programs by the lake with both indoor and outdoor settings
Beautiful lakeside pavilions

Conveniently located within two hours of Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Washington D.C., Rocky Gap is nestled at the base of Evitts Mountain, on the pristine shores of Lake Habeeb and sits at the gateway to beautiful Rocky Gap State Park.

For more information on Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort, visit www.rockygapresort.com or call 800-724-0828.

About Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort is a 215-room resort located on 243-acre Lake Habeeb in the lush forested mountains of Western Maryland. Amenities include the Rocky Gap Garden Spa which features the renowned line of Eminence spa products, miles of marked hiking trails highlighting Mother Nature's glory, a 7,000-yard Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course with five sets of tee boxes to match the skill level of any golfer, and an on-property adventure outfitter for horseback riding, hiking and biking, whitewater rafting and corporate team building.

About Crestline Hotels & Resorts

Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is one of the nation's largest independent hospitality management companies. Founded in 2000, the Company presently manages 50 hotels, resorts and conference and convention centers with nearly 11,500 rooms in 13 states and the District of Columbia. Crestline Hotels & Resorts manages properties independently and under such well regarded brands as Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Renaissance, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza and Wyndham. Additional information about the hotel management company is available at the company's web site: www.crestlinehotels.com.

Men's Journal Names Osprey Meadows at Tamarack Resort The Nation's 'Best New Golf Course'

Tamarack Resort CEO Jean-Pierre Boespflug and Chairman Alfredo Miguel envisioned an amenity-rich resort destination.

Not just any amenities mind you.

"The best," said Boespflug

Top of the bell curve or not at all has been the operating principle for these dynamic men who, along with a deep and talented team led by Director of Golf Tom Altmann, are painstakingly building a masterpiece in the Payette River Mountains of Idaho.

The word - and critical acclaim - is getting around.

The latest objective endorsement for Tamarack Resort comes from Men's Journal , which named Osprey Meadows the "Best New Golf Course" in its annual "The Best Issue" (December 2007), which is currently on newsstands.

Men's Journal - the national adventure, travel and leisure lifestyle magazine - stated this about Osprey Meadows at Tamarack Resort.

You can play golf at your dull-as-divot local 18, or you can play it the way God intended: surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and followed by any adventure sport you can possibly think up. Splayed across 400 acres wedged among Tamarack's great new ski mountain, wakeboard-friendly Lake Cascade, and a wildlife preserve, the course teems with elk, bald eagles, and the namesake ospreys. Oh, and the golf's great too: The course is pleasantly eccentric, with extra par 5's and par 3's, plus a 4,800-foot elevation that makes you want to unload on every shot. The highlights include a maddening 608-yard split fairway fourth and an intimidating 246-yard par 3 17th that somehow plays short. And for after the 18th, there are more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails, hiking, fishing, rafting, six ziplines, and always another round (from $75; tamarackidaho.com).

"We are gratified, of course, by this honor," said Miguel. "But honestly we would have been disappointed with anything less. From Day One we told Tom and his team to build the best in the country and they have delivered."

The Men's Journal accolade comes nearly one year after Osprey Meadows' first "Best New Course" honor by Golf Digest. GOLF Magazine and ZAGAT Survey have also singled Osprey Meadows out for distinction.

Osprey Meadows lies in a sweeping meadow between the forest of the steep-rising Tamarack Mountain and shimmering Lake Cascade. The course borders a bird sanctuary and is home to a wide array of wildlife including osprey, bald eagles, and sandhill cranes.

While showcasing panoramic views, the course is spread over 400-acres of varied terrain featuring rolling meadows, creek crossings and forested holes. The par-72 course utilizes multiple tees at each hole to provide a variety of lengths - from 7,319 for experienced players to 5,003 for more casual players.

Osprey Meadows is at an elevation of 4,800 feet—ideal for carrying the ball and providing a longer mountain golf season, yet eliminating the need for acclimation.

About Tamarack Resort

Tamarack Resort, the first all-season resort to open in the U.S. in more than two decades, has received national attention for its world-class mountain for skiing, hiking and mountain biking; Osprey Meadows, a Robert Trent Jones, Jr., signature golf course named America's Best New Course in its category for 2006 by Golf Digest; and beautiful Lake Cascade, ideal for swimming, sailing, fishing, sea kayaking, and boating. A key element of the Tamarack community is The Club at Tamarack for homeowners, their families and guests. Nestled in Idaho's Payette River Mountains, Tamarack is a luxury boutique resort with a variety of lodging options all within walking distance of the four-season amenities.

For more info about the resort, real estate offerings and acclaimed golf course, which is scheduled to reopen for play in mid-May, or to book your stay-and-play getaways, visit www.tamarackidaho.com or call 877-747-5676.

Schmidt-Curley Master-Planned Mission Hills Golf Club (China) Named 'Best Golf Resort' by Asian Golf Monthly

(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) -- Schmidt-Curley Design today announces that Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen, China -- master-planned by principals Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and featuring ten courses designed or co-designed by the firm -- was voted "The Best Golf Resort in Asia" by Asian Golf Monthly magazine.

The Pete Dye and Olazabal Courses at Mission Hills were also recognized by the magazine as the "Best New Course in Asia" and "No. 2 Course in China," respectively. Schmidt-Curley collaborated with the designer-legend on his namesake credit, and are the architects of record on the Olazabal Course, which recently hosted a top-flight international field for the OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup.

On the heels of opening a new full service office in Haikou, Hainan Island, China, Schmidt-Curley was also voted the "No. 2 Golf Course Architecture Firm" in Asia by the magazine. With an established 15-year presence in the Asian golf industry, the satellite office provides enhanced professional, administrative and logistic support for its ever-increasing portfolio of overseas projects.

"Lee and I are both honored that our work in Asia, and specifically our work at Mission Hills, has once again been recognized by Asian Golf Monthly," says Curley. "Our ranking above renowned names such as Nicklaus, Player, and Norman speaks volumes about the quality of our designs and the customer satisfaction they continue to stimulate."

Working closely with Dr. David Chu and son, Ken Chu, Schmidt and Curley developed the master-plan for Mission Hills' 12 golf courses, practice facilities and clubhouses in the 1990s when golf was in its embryonic stage in China. Over the past decade and a half, the firm has overseen the design and construction of each of the club's vaunted layouts.

The Dye and Olazabal courses are two remarkable feathers in a rapidly expanding Asian design cap.

The Pete Dye Course, the first Dye design in Asia, offers a marked departure from Mission Hills' other 11 designs. Dye trademarks are all present and accounted for throughout the par-72, 6,800-yard layout, including small pot bunkers, long tee-to-green waste areas, railroad ties used as sleepers and walkway steps framed by tall native grasses to provide a sharp, visual contrast.

The Olazabal Course is a par-72, 7,251-yard layout, sprinkled with nearly 160 bunkers and marked by significant elevation changes that yield numerous majestic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The signature hole is the 555-yard, par-5 15th, a right-to-left dogleg that features 26 bunkers while curling around a large lake. The 18th is also particularly strong, a 460-yard, par-4 that, like 15, has its left flank menaced by water from tee to green. A stern test, the track is slated to host the OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup through 2018.

The firm's award-winning Asian credits also include Amata Spring G.C. in Chonburi, Thailand. Amata, named Asian Golf Monthly's Best New Course in Asia for 2006, will for the third straight year host the Royal Trophy, a "Ryder Cup" format competition involving teams from Europe and Asia, captained by Seve Ballesteros and Jumbo Ozaki, respectively.

Other acclaimed Schmidt-Curley designs include Agile C.C. (North Course) in Zhongshan, China, named one of the top five courses in China by Golf Digest in 2004, and Chiang Mai Highlands G.C., the # 3 course in Asian Golf Monthly's 2006 "Best New Course" ranking.

Also of great importance to the firm's success are the contributions of its sister company, Flagstick Golf Course Construction Management.

The challenges an owner faces to construct a golf course on time, on budget, and to world-class standards are daunting, which makes Flagstick's range of services invaluable. Flagstick's pre-construction preparation ensures that clients will have a precise understanding of the overall construction process, which reduces the inherent risks involved in the project and maximizes efficiency and project execution, making it more rewarding for all involved. Additionally, Flagstick's ability to manage the myriad administrative tasks associated with any golf course construction project, such as staffing, budgeting and scheduling, is unmatched.

Schmidt-Curley is presently engaged with projects in South Korea, China, Thailand, and Vietnam, the latter of which is located near the famous Cu Chi tunnels on the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

For more information, visit www.schmidt-curley.com or call 480.483.1994.

About Schmidt-Curley Design, Inc.

Founded by partners Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley and based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Schmidt-Curley is a full-service, international golf-course architecture and master-planning firm with more than 100 layouts in 24 countries, including the U.S., Thailand, China, Sweden, Vietnam, Mexico, Egypt, Sweden, and Korea. The tandem is responsible for crafting 10 of the 12 courses at storied Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen, China -- the largest golf complex in the world.

At Mission Hills, Schmidt-Curley teamed with long-time partner Nick Faldo, as well as Ernie Els, Jose Maria Olazabal, David Duval, Annika Sorenstam, Vijay Singh, David Ledbetter and Jumbo Ozaki to create a golf experience unlike any other globally. Other high profile, award-winning projects from Schmidt-Curley include Bali Hai and Siena Golf Clubs (Las Vegas), Amata Spring Golf Club (Chonburi, Thailand, host of The Royal Trophy), Terra Lago Golf Club (Indio, California, site of the Skins Game for four years) Twin Creeks Golf Club (Cedar Park, Texas), and Crosby National Golf Club (Rancho Santa Fe, California).

Schmidt-Curley has also worked extensively with golf's biggest names -- including Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Fred Couples and Faldo on numerous high-profile projects. Producing demanding yet beautiful and enjoyable courses, Schmidt-Curley strives to create golf experiences that stir the senses and elevate golfers' appreciations for the land and the game. By balancing classic golf course architecture with ever-changing contemporary technology, Schmidt-Curley places an emphasis on site-adaptive courses, memorable and enjoyable for all levels of play and always designed for cost-efficient maintenance and operations.

South Korea Golf Resort: Hilton Namhae Golf & Spa Resort

Have plans to be in Asia anytime soon? Your days on the enchanting Island of Namhae, off the coast of South Korea, are spent amongst some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the whole of the Asia Pacific. Surrounded by mountains, forests and waterfalls, the island has been preserved as a National Park. The architecture of this golf & spa resort is stunning; from the cliff side villas with breathtaking views to the innovative clubhouse that unfolds like a prism. Tee off on the pristine seafront 18-hole championship golf course, with year round playability.

The private marina offers a wealth of water and boating activities, whilst the resort’s world-class spa provides a full range of treatments to nurture the body and soul.

After a day full of activity, your villa is the perfect oasis to unwind in, with panoramic views over the Straits of Korea, and contemporary design. This truly is paradise.

UAE Golf Resorts: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

If you are lucky enough to afford vacationing in Dubai, you should definitely check out the Hilton Dubai Jumeirah. Try your hand at windsurfing, snorkelling, water-skiing and parasailing. Or take a dip in the fresh waters of our beautifully warm outdoor pool. The duty-free shopping of Dubai is fantastic – the choice and bargains have to be seen to be believed. We also recommend taking a 4x4 jeep safari into the desert or spending an exhilarating day on tour watching some of nature's more beautiful and exotic birds.

Recuperate from all that activity with a visit to the resort's excellent sauna and massage rooms, followed by an evening enjoying some of the most exciting nightlife to be found in the Emirates.

Hilton Cancun Golf Resort

I just returned from Cancun a few weeks ago and although I did not visit this facility I rode (and walked) past it a few times. It really looks like it's in top notch condition so I decided to feature it here. Check out the Hilton Cancun Golf Resort if you happen to be in the Cancun area, more details from the Hilton site are noted below:

Reminiscent of ancient Mayan ruins, the hotel rises, pyramid-like, to the sky. Following a superb renovation, each fresh and spacious room is a delightful haven with wonderful ocean views.

Nearby in vibrant Cancun, discover excellent shopping from traditional markets to malls. Back at the resort, wander the 160-acre grounds – where lush gardens, palms and cascades are elegantly sprawled – to discover six restaurants and bars. Or spend a lazy afternoon in one of the seven swimming pools, including a vast infinity pool.

Golfers will love the 18-hole golf course weaving around the lagoon, while the spa is a calming environment in which to unwind. For beach lovers this is heaven, with 700 yards of exclusive beachfront and every kind of aquatic pastime available in wonderfully clear waters.

Tudor Park Country Club

Another gem in the English countryside is Tudor Park Country Club. This is another one of Marriott's pristine golf properties and anyone that has an opportunity to golf in England should consider this golf resort. A few details about the resort can be found below.

The 18-hole Tudor Park Course is bordered by mature pine trees, incorporating many natural features. This parkland style course is a challenging, yet fun layout, testing golfers on every shot. The fourth hole features an elevated tee, with a semi-island green surrounded by water. The course itself provides a stunning backdrop that is unique to this part of the world, with Oast House architecture, a fly fishery and the beautiful Milgate House.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Donald Steele
* Yardage: 6,085
* Par: 70

England Golf Resort: Hanbury Manor Country Club

Hanbury Manor Country Club, the prestigious golf course, was the first to be designed by Jack Nicklaus II and still incorporates features from an earlier 9-hole course designed by the great Harry Vardon. The Course is now widely recognized as one of the best in England, with each hole offering a different challenge.

Hanbury Manor provides an exciting experience for golfers of all skill levels. From the championship tees, the course measures 7,052 yards. The USGA greens and numerous tee boxes provide excellent playing surfaces and year round playability.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: Jack Niclaus II
* Yardage: 7,052
* Par: 72

Perfect your swing at Maui’s best golf resort with Creative Holidays (and still keep your wife happy)

Picture this: Two premiership golf courses set among 1650 acres of pristine forest. Smell the frangipanis. Listen to the sound of the surf. Feel the ocean breeze on your skin. It is just you and your Nine Iron. What could be more perfect? Well, your wife will be happy with this golfing package too!

Kapalua Villas on Maui, Hawaii’s second largest island, is a golfer’s dream. Creative Holidays’ exclusive Golfers Paradise Mini Stay packages are priced from $916 per person (twin share) and include two nights in a spacious one bedroom villa as well as a choice of one round of golf at either Plantation or Bay course, a one hour golf lesson with digital video analysis at the Kapalua Golf Academy or a 55 minute in-villa massage (per person per day). The price also includes two days car rental with unlimited mileage.

So, while your playing golf, you can rest assured that your other half will be entertained enjoying a daily massage. Then there are the luscious forests, misty mountains, ancient lava flows and pineapple fields which you can both enjoy.

You’ll also both appreciate the luxuriously appointed Kapalua Villas with first-class furnishings including a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, two TVs, VCR and private balcony.

As a special bonus Creative Holidays are also offering an exclusive special bonus – book the Golfers Paradise Mini Stay before 31 March, 2008 and get a free car upgrade (from compact size to intermediate size).

Creative Holidays’ Hawaii brochure is packed with many other great holiday ideas on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii and Kauai, from value options to luxurious spa options, romantic packages, family getaways and more, making it easier to find a holiday that suits your needs.

Creative Holidays is also the only Australian wholesaler with fully operational customer service offices in Hawaii to assist with any holiday questions and tour bookings. This means you can rest assured your trip will be smooth and hassle-free.

Creative Holidays’ Hawaii holiday program is a comprehensive information source and research tool to help you plan your holiday and features impartial destination information supplied by Lonely Planet including temperature charts, country and area maps, event details, currency and dining information, travel facts, country highlights and much more throughout.

As a SPECIAL BONUS, Lonely Planet is offering significant discounts on their range of travel guides to Creative Holidays’ customers, if you wish to learn more about Hawaii. Check out www.creativeholidays.com where you can save 20 per cent off all full priced Lonely Planet guides.

Creative Holidays great deals are available through travel agents. See www.creativeholidays.com for more information.

Laser Link Golf Welcomes Firestone Country Club and Southern Hills Country Club to a Fast Growing List of Laser Linked Courses

MADISON, WI - Laser Link Golf continues to pad its already impressive resume with the addition of two courses well known to golfers around the world -- Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, OK, and Firestone Country Club in Akron, OH. Southern Hills most recently hosted the 2007 PGA Championship won by Tiger Woods, one of its unprecedented four PGA Championships, and has also been the site of three US Opens. Firestone Country Club hosted the best players in the world during the 2007 World Golf Championships - Bridgestone Invitational, the seventh time it has done so, and is known as one of the best golf courses played during the PGA Tour season.

"It really is exciting to see such famous names like this join our list of Laser Linked courses," said Rob O'Loughlin, President, Laser Link Golf. "Our list continues to grow and grow, not only in quantity, but in quality as well. These two additions, along with the recent addition of Sunningdale Golf Club in the UK, help to solidify our position as the choice of the best clubs in the world."

As their reflector option, Southern Hills chose the Laser Link SmartSticks. The SmartStick is a regulation flagstick with reflective prisms built directly into the body of the stick, resulting in a seamless integration of utility and reflective performance. Firestone Country Club chose the Smarty reflector. The Smarty screws onto the top of the flagstick, and incorporates the same reflective prisms as the SmartStick. Both are the best reflectors available in golf today, and both are available only from Laser Link Golf.

To learn more about the Laser Link Distance System, visit www.laserlinkgolf.com.

About Laser Link Golf

Laser Link Golf is the producer of the Laser Link Distance System, the revolutionary distance measurement system designed specifically for golf. The laser-based system utilizes two components - a handheld laser rangefinder and a flagstick-based reflector - to determine the exact distance to the flagstick. Laser Link Golf products include the popular QuickShot™ rangefinder, the SmartStick™ reflector system, and the Smarty™ flagstick reflector. The System is designed to speed up play and add enjoyment to the game. It is in use at more than 1,400 private clubs around the country, and several more daily fee courses. Laser Link Golf is based in Madison, WI, and is owned and operated by many of the same individuals that started SoftSpikes®. They are involved in Laser Link Golf for the same reason they got involved in SoftSpikes® - both are good for the game!

England Country Club: Hollins Hall

Any golf vacation in Europe must at least include a stop in England. Nestled in the British Isles, England ranks right up there with Scotland, Ireland and Wales as a destination spot for golfers looking for a great spot for vacation or holiday. Furthermore, Hollins Hall is part of the Marriott Golf network so if you've got points or are a member of the Marriott Rewards club you might qualify for special deals. Check out the details below for Hollins Hall!

The golf course at Hollins Hall has an ever-increasing reputation as one of the most exciting and enjoyable golfing venues in the area. It commands spectacular views over Baildon Moor and the Yorkshire, leaving those fortunate enough to play the course with unforgettable golfing memories.

Multiple tee boxes on each hole help provide a challenge to golfers of various skill levels. The USGA designed greens are simply remarkable, ensuring playability year round.
Course Characteristics

* Designer: -
* Yardage: 6,671
* Par: 71

Scotland Golf Resorts: Dalmahoy Country Club - East Course

I'm not sure about many of you, but I know I've always dreamed of playing golf in Scotland. Primarily at St. Andrews, but I'm not so sure my game would warrant the expense at this point. So I was looking around the other day for other options throughout this golf mecca and came across Dalmahoy Country Club's East Course. This is a Marriott Golf property, so package deals and specials are available through them. Check out some of the details below, this certainly could be one of those places on your list if you're planning an upcoming golf vacation or holiday.

The prestigious East Course has recently undergone a £1 million redevelopment and is now the longest course in Scotland at 7,475 yards. The charm, character and challenge inspired by James Braid in 1927 have been retained, yet the extended and beautifully altered course provides a test of nerve for every golfer.

The East Course has hosted major championships such as the Solheim Cup in 1992 and other notable tournaments such as the Scottish PGA Championship on 9 occasions.

Course Characteristics
Designer: James Braid
Yardage: 7,475
Par: 72

Turtle Bay Resort Receives 2007 “Greens of Distinction” Award

Corporate & Incentive Travel, a magazine for corporate meeting and incentive travel planners, presented the Turtle Bay Resort with its 2007 “Greens of Distinction” Award. The presentation was made last night in New York City at the magazine’s annual black-tie awards gala.

Turtle Bay Resort was selected by magazine subscribers as the overall winner in the category of “best resort, hotel, or conference center” that best served their needs with an incentive golf program. The selections were based on meeting facilities, overall hospitality, golf staff assistance, course condition and design, and tournament arrangements that effectively hosted their meetings and incentive travel programs.

“This is a tremendous honor,” said Bob Boyle, vice president and general manager of Turtle Bay Resort. “This award reflects the quality of not only our golf courses and facilities but also the tremendous effort by our staff in ensuring that our guests receive the best possible service.”

The resort offers business travelers and guests who attend meetings two championship courses – The Arnold Palmer Course and The George Fazio Course – that are nestled among 880 acres of beaches, ironwood trees and unspoiled wetlands on Oahu’s legendary North Shore. With Hawaii’s perfect weather providing excellent year-round golf conditions, guests staying at Turtle Bay Resort for business find this to be an added bonus that enhances their experience.

“We take great pride in our golf program and to be recognized for our efforts is truly gratifying,” said Matt Hall, Turtle Bay Resort’s director of golf. “Our guests are very important to us and to be picked as a winner is a great honor.”

The resort’s $70 million renovation project completed in 2006 included new greens and course improvements on the Palmer course and a restored back nine on the Fazio Course. Also, the golf

shop was completely upgraded, Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill – a scenic clubhouse restaurant opened, and a world-class practice facility was built adjacent to the Palmer Course.

Famous for world-class surfing, pristine white sand beaches, and its charming country setting, the North Shore also offers colorful cultural attractions, innovative ecological endeavors, and environmental adventures.

For reservations or more information, visit www.TurtleBayResort.com; e-mail TBRreservations@benchmarkmanagement.com or call toll free (866) 827-5327.

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, the 880-acre Turtle Bay Resort is operated by Benchmark Hospitality International and is a Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide property – a collection of the world’s finest independent luxury hotels.

Benchmark Hospitality International, an independent hospitality management company based in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, operates resorts, conference centers, hotels and condominium resorts both domestically and internationally.

Griffin Gate Resort's Unlimited Golf Package

Hey guys, wanted to pass this one along to you as well. If anyone is going to be in the Lexington, Kentucky area, Griffin Gate is running a nice package right now. Details are below (hurry up though, there's only about a month left for the offer)

Details
With gaping bunkers guarding every green, breathtaking water views on 12 of 18 holes and few flat putts, golfers will enjoy this unique golf course located in the heart of Kentucky. Package includes deluxe accommodations for two people, unlimited rounds of golf for two, including green fees and cart, and breakfast for two in the Griffin Gardens. Rates vary from $309 - $369.

Booking
Please call 1-800-228-9290 and ask for promotional code GFP or book online at www.marriott.com and enter promotional code GFP in the Corporate/Promotional code box.

Terms & Conditions
For advance tee times, please call 1-859-288-6193. This package does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms and blackout dates may apply.

Valid Until
12/31/2007

Wildfire Golf Club in Phoenix, Arizona - a must see..

Hey folks, I was travelling again last week and happened to be in the Phoenix Arizona area. I was fortunate enough to be taken to Wildfire Golf Club, which I have to say was quite memorable. I was so excited to get back and tell everyone that I'm going to post a little information below on this club. Enjoy, it's highly recommended..

Wildfire Golf Club is situated in the rugged Sonoran Desert of Northeast Phoenix, and features two picturesque 18-hole courses designed by two of golf's greatest legends--Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo.

The Palmer Signature Course at Wildfire Golf Club offers scenic and expansive fairways allowing the ball to remain in play even on an errant shot. The Faldo Championship Course features generous fairways, large bent grass greens and tee boxes. Surrounding both courses are the majestic McDowell Mountains and century-old saguaro cacti, providing a spectacular setting for golfers. The two courses of Wildfire Golf Club are an integral part of the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, voted one of the Top 75 Resorts in North America by Cond? Nast readers.

Reserve a tee time at Wildfire Golf Club.

Discover more about the spa, recreational and dining amenities of JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa.

PGA Tour's Nationwide Tour And Wayne Gretzky Announce Premiere Event In Canada

The PGA TOUR's Nationwide Tour and Wayne Gretzky announced today that the Wayne Gretzky Foundation will host a new tournament in Canada beginning in 2008, sponsored by Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited.

The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic will be held June 23-29 at The Georgian Bay Club and the Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay, located on the shores of expansive Georgian Bay, 150 km northwest of Toronto. The Nationwide Tour features PGA TOUR stars of the future with 25 PGA TOUR cards awarded at the conclusion of the season to its leading money winners.

Ford of Canada, a long-time supporter of the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, has signed a three-year agreement to be the title sponsor of the event through 2010. Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc., also a long-time supporter of the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, will be the presenting sponsor.

The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic will feature a unique format with 160 Nationwide Tour players paired with 160 celebrities/amateurs for a minimum of two days. One professional will be paired with one celebrity or amateur on Thursday and Friday, June 26 and 27 and the teams alternating between The Georgian Bay Club and Lora Bay courses both days. Ten pro/amateur teams will compete on Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th for the Pro-Celebrity/Amateur title at The Georgian Bay Club.

The 160 professionals will vie for one of the Tour's largest purses, $800,099 (U.S) over 72 holes of stroke-play competition. All four rounds will be televised by Golf Channel.

Gretzky, an avid golfer who has enjoyed participating in celebrity events on both the PGA TOUR and Nationwide Tour, has committed to play in the Classic and is excited to host an event on the Nationwide Tour. "I have always had tremendous respect for the Nationwide Tour and the platform it provides for aspiring golfers," said Gretzky. "I am thrilled to host an event that will recognize the hard work and dedication these players put in week after week on Tour."

"The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic is a terrific addition to the Nationwide Tour schedule," said Nationwide Tour President Bill Calfee. "It is exciting to have Canada's premiere sports legend partnering with the Tour. Golf fans of Canada will get to watch PGA TOUR stars of the future and have the unique opportunity to get close to Wayne and the many celebrities who will be participating."

The Wayne Gretzky Foundation, founded by Gretzky in 2002, will be the primary beneficiary of the event. David Greenberg, vice president, general marketing, Ford of Canada said "Ford of Canada has a long-standing commitment to hockey. Through our relationship with Wayne Gretzky, we are proud to support his foundation to help bring Canada's sport to kids who may not otherwise get the chance to play."

The Georgian Bay Club, designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and opened for play in 2004, was named Golf Digest's top-ranked New Private Course in Canada in 2005. The Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay, which opened in 2006, was co-designed by 1996 British Open champion Tom Lehman and prominent Canadian golf course architect Thomas McBroom.

The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic will be managed and operated by the Blake and Bosworth Group, Canada.

About The Wayne Gretzky Foundation:
Founded in 2002, the Wayne Gretzky Foundation's mission is to provide less fortunate youth with the opportunity to experience the sport of hockey. This goal will be accomplished through the donation of hockey equipment and ice time, as well as providing the opportunity for young people to attend professional hockey games. The Wayne Gretzky Foundation believes that hockey instills many positive life skills and contributes to the physical, emotional and social growth of young people.

About Ford
Ford of Canada's operations include a national headquarters, three regional offices, two branch offices, four vehicle assembly and engine manufacturing plants, two parts distribution centres, and affiliates including Ford Credit, Jaguar, Volvo, and Land Rover. Ford employs more than 10,000 people in Canada, while an additional 18,600 people are employed in the more than 450 Ford and Ford-Lincoln dealerships across the country. For more information, please visit www.ford.ca.

About the Nationwide Tour
As an extension of the PGA TOUR, the Nationwide Tour identifies and transitions those select golfers whose games are ready to compete and win on golf's greatest stage. Collectively, Nationwide Tour alumni have won 217 PGA TOUR events, including 21 in 2007, and a grand slam of the major championships. Twenty-five PGA TOUR cards will be at stake over the course of the 2008 Nationwide Tour season. Recognizing this growing stature and the PGA TOUR's commitment to charity, Nationwide, one of the largest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the world, renewed its umbrella sponsorship of the Nationwide Tour through 2012. The PGA TOUR, through the efforts of its three tours and their tournaments, sponsors, players and volunteers, supports over 2,000 local charities and has surpassed $1 billion in charitable giving. To learn more about the Nationwide Tour's rich history and the PGA TOUR's next stars, visit www.PGATOUR.com.

About Nationwide
Nationwide, based in Columbus, OH, is one of the largest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the world, with more than $160 billion in assets. Nationwide ranks No. 104 on the Fortune 500 list. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, motorcycle, boat, homeowners, life, commercial insurance, administrative services, annuities, mortgages, mutual funds, pensions and long-term savings plans. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Nationwide and the Nationwide Framework are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. On Your Side is a service mark of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

La Costa Invites Golfers To “Take A Swing At History”

Golfers at La Costa Resort and Spa can “Take A Swing At History” and win a custom-fitted Nike driver, by beating Tiger Woods’ legendary shot that clinched the 1997 Mercedes Championship.

Throughout November, every golfer who comes closer to the hole at the par-3 16th on La Costa’s North Course than Woods did during his famous sudden-death victory will win a Nike Sasquatch SUMO driver. Men do not have to play from the tournament tees; they can play from any of the designated men’s tees, with women allowed to play from the either of the two sets of forward tees.

The catch? Woods’ shot was only two inches from the hole. If no golfer gets inside two inches during the month, the closest certified shot will earn a free driver. Also, on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 22) the golfer who is closest to the hole at the North Course 16th wins a driver.

Maintaining a rich tradition that began with golf’s tour stars of the 1960s, La Costa Resort and Spa is also offering a Fall Golf Package that includes golf and overnight accommodations for two for $349 – more than a 50 percent savings. And, of course, each package includes a “Swing At History.”

“It should be fun for golfers to look across the pond to the green and try to replicate what arguably is the greatest moment in La Costa tournament history, as well as one of the most memorable shots in golf,” said Dave Doerr, the Director of Golf at La Costa Resort and Spa, part of the family of KSL Resorts destinations. “They’ll probably have to ace it to beat Tiger, but what a way to do it.”

In 1997, when rain forced Woods and Tom Lehman to return Sunday morning to break the tie, play started on the 189-yard hole near the clubhouse. Woods hit first, virtually sealing the competition immediately. Woods tapped in for birdie and the playoff ended with just one swing.

La Costa has hosted the world’s premier golf professionals during the prestigious Tournament Of Champions (1969-1993), Mercedes Championship (1994-1998) and through the Accenture Match Play Championship (from 1999-2006).

“We realize golfers enjoy walking in the footsteps of the legendary champions who created a storied history on our golf courses,” Doerr said. “We want to remain faithful to that legacy and this package is a great way for golfers to make a personal connection to the history and tradition La Costa has enjoyed with the best players in the world, dating back to 1968.”

For tee times and golf package reservations, call (800) 854-5000 or (760) 438-9111.

Founded in 1992, KSL Resorts operates six time-honored resorts with outstanding recreational amenities, including spa, golf, tennis and ski. Each is refined yet unpretentious, rich in legacy, and genuine in service. The KSL resorts are:

Hotel del Coronado (San Diego, CA)
La Costa Resort and Spa (Carlsbad, CA)
Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa (Rancho Mirage, CA)
Vail Mountain Lodge & Spa (Vail, CO)
Barton Creek Resort & Spa (Austin, TX)
The Homestead (Hot Springs, VA)

For more information, call 1-866-KSL-7727 or visit www.kslresorts.com.

Hershey Country Club Adds Fourth Course to Its Collection

(Hershey, PA) – Hershey Entertainment & Resorts announced today that it will assume the management of the golf course formerly known as Wren Dale Golf Club.

Carrying on the tradition and prestige of championship golf that are at the heart of the Hershey Resorts golf experience, Hershey Links (formerly Wren Dale Golf Club) has been added to the Hershey Golf Collection and will be managed by Hershey Country Club.

“Hershey Links is regarded among the most challenging courses in Pennsylvania and now forms a compelling trio for our members and guests of Hershey Resorts,” said Ted J. Kleisner, President and CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company. “The addition of Hershey Links to our golf collection allows us to enhance the exceptional service and amenities our guests and members expect.”

Overlooking Hershey from nearby Hummelstown, Hershey Links was designed by the noted golf course architectural firm of Hurzdan-Fry. Hershey Links, which opened in 2000, provides a contemporary design to the Hershey Golf Collection, already known for the East and West courses at historic Hershey Country Club.

The general public, guests of Hershey Resorts and Hershey Country Club members will have the opportunity to play Hershey Links.

Hershey Links stretches along natural bluffs and ravines that create a peaceful setting overlooking Hershey, while providing ample shot-making challenges. Playing to 7,009 yards from the longest of five sets of tees, the par 72 features Bentgrass greens, fairways and tees accented throughout the course by tall, golden-brown fescues. An expansive practice facility centrally located on the property includes a double-sided range more than 300 yards deep, three target greens that replicate the demands of the golf course and complete short-game areas. A new clubhouse at Hershey Links is scheduled to open in the spring of 2009.

Consistently ranked among the top golf resorts in the United States, the Hershey Golf Collection now features 63 holes of golf, including three championship courses and the historic Spring Creek Golf Course. Spring Creek, which opened under the name “The Juvenile Course,” is a family-friendly, nine-hole layout renowned as the nation's first public golf course opened to boys and girls under the age of 18. Located on 40 acres along Chocolate Avenue, the par-33 course was completely renovated in 2006 and features three new holes and now plays to 2,200 yards. Spring Creek is open to the public and Hershey Resort guests.

The West Course at Hershey Country Club is a classic par-72 layout that winds its way through tree-lined fairways and challenging hazards. The signature hole of the West Course is the par-3 fifth hole with High Point Mansion, Milton S. Hershey’s former home, as a spectacular backdrop.

On the East Course, a par-71, designer George Fazio captured the natural beauty of central Pennsylvania's countryside with spectacular views that golfers can appreciate on every hole. The 7,061-yard course boasts numerous natural hazards, rolling fairways and difficult greens. The East Course hosted a Nationwide Tour event for eight years.

For details about the Hershey Golf Collection, visit HersheyGolfCollection.com.

Hershey, Pennsylvania, is known the world over as The Sweetest Place On Earth. The destination’s wide array of attractions includes Hersheypark, ZooAmerica, The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hershey Highmeadow Campground, Hershey Country Club, Hersheypark Stadium, Hersheypark Arena, Hershey Bears professional hockey team and Giant Center.

Hershey is located in central Pennsylvania, three hours from New York City, two hours from Philadelphia, and 90 minutes from the Washington/Baltimore metro area.