Tag: pinehurst

7 Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Procrastinators
If you are anything like me, you tend to wait to the last minute for everything. Father’s Day is almost here once again, and if you haven’t thought of any father’s day gifts yet, here are a few ideas. Now hurry! There’s no time to lose!

Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS

The Phantom 3 builds off the success of the previous generation by introducing new features to go with all the beloved features of the Phantom 2, including the BITE magnetic mount, “GreenView” with moveable pin placement, and more than 38,000 preloaded courses. The features include:
- NEW Patented Slope Compensated Distances
- NEW Touchscreen with Intuitive UI
- NEW Auto Course & Hole Recognition
- NEW Auto-Prompt Score Entry
- NEW Round Timer & Odometer
- Front, Center, Back Distances
- Up to 6 Hazards per Hole
- GreenView with Moveable Pin Placement
- Shot Distance Calculator
- 38,000+ Preloaded Courses
- Integrated BITE Magnetic Cart Mount
- 14+ Hour Battery Life
- Bushnell Golf Mobile App Included
Offered in four colors (Red, White & Blue, Neon Green, Orange and Black), the Phantom 3 Slope will be available at Bushnell Golf and retailers nationwide beginning in June and will retail for $149.99.

Foresight QuadMAX

Foresight’s GCQuad launch monitor set the standard for camera-based launch monitors and continues to prove itself with extensive use on the professional tours. The new QuadMAX, built on the same advanced four-camera photometric data capture technology, packs even more features into a compact, ruggedized form factor. At $20,000 it’s not likely to be an impulse purchase for most people, but if you want the best, sell one of your kidneys or tap into the kids’ college fund and get the Foresight QuadMAX. Go to https://www.foresightsports.com/ for more info.

Club Champion – Free Fittings!

Club Champion, the world’s leading custom golf club fitter, is celebrating dads by offering FREE custom club fittings (with a club purchase) from June 13-17!

Whether Dad is an avid golfer or a casual player, it’s time for a visit to Club Champion! Why spend $600 plus on a driver if it isn’t fitted for your swing? Maximize your return on investment by getting fitted by some of the best brand-agnostic fitters in golf. In addition to the free fitting offer, Club Champion is also offering 20% bonus cards on any gift cards purchased now through June 16, 2024. Terms apply. Gift cards can be purchased online at clubchampion.com.

Payne Stewart Collection

If you were born in the 90s and beyond, there’s a good chance you don’t know who Payne Stewart is. However, any golfer born in the 70s and 80s (like your dad) will know the name. Stewart was one of my favorite golfers ever, and his untimely death in 1999 rocked the golf world. Visitors to Pinehurst Resort cannot miss the statue erected in his honor, depicting the iconic fist-pumping scene of his 1999 US Open victory with a clutch par putt on the 72nd hole to beat a young Phil Mickelson. Payne Stewart holds a special place in my heart as a player and a gentleman, and I’ll always cherish our brief interaction in 1998 at TPC Sawgrass.

The 25th anniversary of Payne Stewart’s unforgettable victory at the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort will be commemorated this week when Pinehurst No. 2 course again plays host to our national championship. Stewart’s fashion made him one of the most identifiable players on the PGA Tour and, fittingly, his legacy will again take center stage with the official launch of the Payne Stewart Collection.

The men’s luxury clothing line will honor the indelible style and grace of one of the game’s most revered figures, whose life was tragically cut short in a plane crash four months after his dramatic victory at Pinehurst. Dubbed the “All-Time Best Dressed Golfer,” Stewart’s influence went beyond his sporting achievements. His personality, charisma, and class left an enduring mark on the world of golf and fashion, now immortalized in a selection of clothing and accessories that capture his iconic look. For more info, go to https://paynestewartcollection.com/

STNKY Laundry Bags

If you’ve ever been on a golf trip, you’ve probably had to scramble around to find a way to bring your dirty laundry back without making your suitcase stink. STNKY Bags are the solution for sorting, carrying, washing, and drying everything that gets dirty or sweaty during your travels. They effectively lock in germs, moisture, and odors. Plus, the built-in wash net offers easy no-touch washing, making post-travel laundry a breeze.
- Put dirty clothes in the STNKY Bag by opening the bottom zipper.
- Turn the bag inside out and it becomes a wash bag.
- Pack the bag with dirty clothes in your luggage, then throw it directly into the washer and dryer when you return home.
- When it’s laundry time, you never have to touch dirty clothes again!
STNKY laundry bags are conveniently available on Amazon, so while you’re grabbing other must-haves for your excursion, STNKY is the travel companion you don’t want to leave behind. The STNKY Pro ($30 standard/$37.50 large) is available in five colors.

TRUE FS-Tour Golf Shoes

Throw out your dad’s old wingtips, it’s time to modernize his golf shoes! True Linkswear has a classic looking shoe called the FS-Tour with “fly under the radar” styling yet is loaded with modern tech and comfort. They are as appropriate for a backyard BBQ or casual Fridays at the office as they are on the golf course. Check them out at https://truelinkswear.com/

Features
- Two-year Waterproof Guarantee (TRUE PNWProof bootie construction)
- Top Grain Nappa Leather Wing Tip Upper
- WANDERLUX Ultra Plush Insole for cushioned, comfortable ride
- Microsuede Insert Topper providing a soft on-foot feel
- Classic, Wax Coated Laces
- Versatile FS Tread, ready for a night out and the course
- Metal Tour Logo Accents
“With the FS-Tour we wanted to offer a timeless look with hidden performance detailing to create a new staple for your wardrobe, on or off the golf course,” said TRUE Footwear Designer, Jeremy Santana. “Versatility has become a trademark of our brand and the FS-Tour brings all-day style, function and performance to a new level.”

Stretch Zone

Is stretching the new wellness trend? If you want to improve your game and gain yardage, Stretch Zone could be the answer! Stretch Zone, the leader in practitioner-assisted stretch therapy, is experiencing a huge spike – especially with golfers! Help unlock your golf potential by enhancing flexibility, prevent injuries, and improve performance. Stretch Zone’s tailored stretches increase range of motion, boost circulation, and speed up recovery, ensuring you’re always at the top of your game. With locations nationwide, getting started is easy. Swing better, play longer, and stay injury-free. Go to https://www.stretchzone.com/ for more info.

Hurry!

Father’s Day is almost here, but there’s still time for one of these Father’s Day gift ideas to make his day! Hope everyone has a great week and enjoy the 124th US Open Championship at Pinehurst Resort!
June 12, 2024
Father’s Day – 5 Last Minute Gifts

Father’s Day 2023 is a week away, and if you haven’t already found a golf gift for dad, here are five suggestions for that perfect gift! From gadgets to golf clubs to an amazing golf getaway, there’s something here that’ll he’ll love.

Bushnell Wingman View

Bushnell’s updated Wingman Bluetooth speaker now includes an LCD screen to quickly get GPS yardages for over 30,000 courses, built right in to the speaker. It still sounds great and has enough battery to last for 36 holes, and can even help charge other devices in a pinch.

Pinehurst Resort

It may be a bit too late for a Father’s Day weekend golf trip, but there’s never a bad time to book the popular Donald Ross package at Pinehurst Resort. There’s no better time than this summer to play the host venue of the 2024 US Open! With 9 golf courses and a tenth opening next summer, along with the Cradle short course and world-class dining and accommodations, there’s no wonder why they call Pinehurst “the cradle of American golf.”

Zoom Broom Golf Breeze

Unless you are on a links course, it’s likely there will be trees on the course where you are playing. Trees have leaves, and leaves fall on the course. Especially in autumn, it can be frustrating to clear the line of your putt of debris, but Zoom Broom has a fix – The Golf Breeze blower. Designed to be light weight and fit in your golf bag, this surprisingly powerful blower will easily clear a path from leaves, pine needles, loose sand and other debris that may find its way into your line.

Golf Forever

Your dad probably wants to get back in shape, he just hasn’t told you yet. Why not give him a gentle nudge by getting him the Golf Forever swing trainer and fitness package subscription? For Father’s Day you’ll even save $100 on the package. It seems to be working for Scottie Scheffler – He shot to world #1 shortly after becoming a brand ambassador. Like your dad, I’m going to get in better shape using Golf Forever’s program. I’ll start any day now…

Takomo Golf Irons

If you haven’t heard of them before, Takomo Golf is a direct-to-consumer brand that makes irons and wedges. Really, really good irons and wedges. I have a set of the 301MB forged blades and I’m head over heels in love. After only 3 or 4 swings on the range, they went right in my bag and are there to stay. I challenge anyone to find a new set of Japanese forged irons with KBS shafts for less than $700, yet that is exactly what Takomo is doing. But it’s not just about forged blades – Takomo has a set of iron for every dad and every handicap. Give them a look. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

June 12, 2023
Off Season Golf at Pinehurst – Play More, Spend Less
2020 was a crazy year. While COVID-19 was a huge downer for the economy, it hit the tourism industry especially hard as people’s travel plans had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. But golf didn’t seem to take as much of a beating. In many places, golf was one of the more popular outdoor activities that you could safely participate in during the lockdown, thanks to the game’s built-in social distancing.

According to the National Golf Foundation, Golf rounds in June 2020 were up in every state in the continental U.S., including an increase of at least 20% in golf-rich states like Arizona (+29%), Florida (+25%), Georgia (+24%), Texas (+23%), Pennsylvania (+22%) and Ohio (+21%).

The results of this increase in golf led to a boom in golf club & accessory sales also. According to research firm Golf Datatech, sales of all categories of golf equipment set new records in July 2020. Golf equipment and accessory numbers were the highest for a single month since the company began tracking information in 1997. Sales at on and off-course retailers were $388.6 million, which easily surpassed the previous best two months (June 2007 at $368.1 million and June 2006 at $364.0 million).

Pinehurst Resort – Offseason Play in the Cradle of American Golf

I witnessed this mini boom in golf firsthand when I visited Pinehurst Resort in July 2020. Bookings at the resort were through the roof, with near 100% occupancy at the resort’s hotels and tee sheets that were booked solid at all 9 courses. With a packed house and people everywhere, I thought the resort did a really nice job with social distancing and found a good balance between safety, sanitation and hospitality. With ten courses (9 courses + The Cradle short course), three hotels, villas & condos and 10 restaurants, it’s pretty easy to spread people out, and nothing ever feels crowded except at peak meal times.

The Carolina Hotel

Pinehurst is a special place, and with some time off and nothing better to do, I decided to return and spend Thanksgiving week in the sandhills of North Carolina on a solo pilgrimage. Not only are the crowds light at this time of year, but the Village of Pinehurst and the surrounding area were in full holiday mode when I arrived, which adds to the overall experience. The resort is just a 7 hour drive from home, so I was able to avoid the rush of holiday travelers at the airport.

The weather was ideal for a holiday golf getaway, with daytime highs in the 70s and evening lows in the high 40s for perfect “sweater weather.” The area was noticeably less crowded than my first trip four months prior in July. It almost felt like I had the whole place to myself. In fact, one morning when I showed up for an early tee time on Pinehurst #4, I literally had the entire practice tee, chipping area and putting green to myself for a while. It was an a amazing sight, given how busy that same area was the first time I was there.

Pinehurst at Dawn

For several reasons I think a Thanksgiving visit to Pinehurst is very much worth considering for a family trip or solo getaway. Not only is the weather great and the crowds light, the cost is way cheaper too. For example, from November through February the rates for Pinehurst Resort’s popular Donald Ross Package drop more than 50%!

The weather cools off in the winter, but most golfers (and especially those living north of the Mason Dixon line) will not be dissuaded, with December and January highs usually in the 50s and February highs climbing into the 60s. Of course there can be big swings in highs and lows, so be sure to check the weather before packing.

Beyond Pinehurst Resort – North Carolina’s Sandhills

Pinehurst Resort may be the crown jewel and the center of attention for the region, but there are plenty of other options near by that add to the experience of golf in the Sandhills of North Carolina. My Thanksgiving trip included warm-up stops at Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club and Pine Needles, both fantastic Donald Ross designs that have tons of character and history. The best part? Tee times at both courses were only $85 – A steal if you ask me. Mid Pines is a classic Ross design that is meticulously maintained and virtually unchanged from the original 1921 design, making it an absolute blast to play. Pine Needles will soon be the first course in the nation to host four U.S. Women’s Opens and is the #4 rated course in NC by Golfweek.
Tobacco Road GC #1
Tobacco Road GC #8
Tobacco Road GC #9
Tobacco Road GC #13
Tobacco Road GC #14
Tobacco Road GC #18
30 minutes north of Pinehurst Village is a golf experience that is unlike anywhere in the world. In 1998, the late Mike Strantz crafted a masterpiece of golf design called Tobacco Road Golf Club. Challenging yet playable, this unique design can be visually overwhelming and playing it can feel a little like riding a roller coaster. It’s not long by modern standards at just over 6500 yards from the longest tees, but it’s very fair. Good shots will be rewarded, but bad shots will be severely punished. I think it must be played to really understand the mystique of the place. In my experience, you either love it or hate it, but most love it. Personally, I think Tobacco Road is in my top 5 golf courses I’ve played in the world. Rates during the winter months vary, but most are under $100 and get cheaper when booked as a package.

Conclusions

The sandhills of North Carolina are a mecca for golf in the Eastern United States, and there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the cradle of American golf year-round. The weather may not always be perfect, but with golf there’s never a guarantee of perfect weather, even at the peak times in spring and early summer. The biggest benefits of visiting Pinehurst in the late fall and winter are twofold – There are less people, and it’s as much as 50% cheaper. My solo trip for Thanksgiving 2020 was fantastic. I enjoyed good weather, uncrowded courses that were still in fantastic shape, equally uncrowded restaurants, and prices that made the entire experience feel like I was stealing.

Pro Tip: During your stay at Pinehurst, be sure to take advantage of the BMW Guest Drive Program that allows guests of the resort to choose any vehicle from a fleet of new BMWs for a free 3-hour test drive. I spent one very entertaining evening in the fantastic 550 horsepower, twin-turbo V8 powered BMW X5 M550i.
January 24, 2021
12 Days of Christmas Gift Guide – Last Minute Ideas

Our 12 days of Christmas gift guide series was off to a great start, but unfortunately got derailed last week due to a family emergency. With just a few days left until Christmas, we still have a few last minute gift ideas for you!

V1 Sports – V1 Golf App

V1’s free golf swing analysis and instruction app helps golfers play their best by capturing and reviewing your swing with powerful analysis and playback tools. The V1 golf swing app also allows you to connect with one of thousands of instructors who teach with V1 Sports.

I recently connected with perennial Top 100 instructor Brian Mogg using the V1 app. I sent him 2 videos of my swing for analysis and in a few days he responded with his feedback and some drills to work on what I needed to improve upon. The results were immediate. Now I can send follow-up videos to make sure I’m progressing well and we plan on getting together in person at some point to reinforce what I’ve learned.

The V1 app really is the perfect way to improve your game, contact free, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Did I mention the app is free? OK, your lessons won’t be free obviously – That’s between you and your pro, but you can use the V1 app for free as long as you want to capture swing videos and use it to analyze your own swing videos.

For those of you that want more (who doesn’t), there’s the premium upgrade that costs $6.99 per month, or $59.99 per year. The premium version removes ads and adds a huge HD model swing library, allows you to compare two swings side by side in slow motion, overlay two videos for close inspection, and you get priority in-app support should something go wrong.

GolfLogix Green Books & App

We’ve written about GolfLogix before, and their golf GPS app has been one of the most complete and popular GPS apps available for several years, with over 5 million users worldwide. With the introduction of their Green Books, they’ve taken things to the next level.

GolfLogix Green Books provide yardage guides, but the real star of the show are the detailed heat maps and putting break maps of each green for over 14,000 golf courses. I brought one of the books to Pinehurst and they were especially useful on the famed #2 course with their extreme upside-down bowl greens.

For those that prefer to take advantage of more modern technology, GolfLogix also has their aforementioned phone app that provides accurate GPS distances, in-round pro-level stat tracking, approach view and the new Putt Line feature. It’s basically like having the green books on your phone. Membership for GolfLogix Plus is only $49.99 per year.

Bushnell Wingman GPS Speaker

If you are one of the lucky ones that can still find them in stores, the Bushnell Wingman is one of the most sought after golf gifts in all the land. Bushnell is already well known for their industry leading golf GPS and laser rangefinders, but the Bushnell Wingman was one of the most attention getting products introduced at the 2020 PGA Merchandise show, and it has lived up to the hype as they have been having trouble keeping it in stock all year!

The Bushnell Wingman is a high quality bluetooth speaker combined with a golf GPS that works with the Bushnell Golf app on your phone to briefly mute your music while speaking out distances to the front, middle and back of the greens, as well as water hazards. It’s all controlled by a little magnetic remote. You can even program it to spout sarcastic comments for your buddies. The Wingman also has a powerful magnet to stick it to any metal surface without falling off. Now the only thing you have to worry about is not offending your playing partners with your selection of music on the course! the Bushnell Wingman retails for around $149.99 and is available at most golf retailers, big box stores and Amazon.

December 22, 2020
Pinehurst Resort Trip Log – Day 2
Our first full day at Pinehurst Resort for this trip was packed full, starting with a full, hearty breakfast an the Carolina Hotel in one of the great restaurants called the Carolina Room. The breakfast buffet includes all the usual items like scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage and they add some distinctly southern charm with fresh grits, griddle cakes and biscuits & gravy. The omelet bar is also fully stocked. You won’t leave the Carolina Room with an empty stomach, that’s for sure.

Catch up on our trip by reading the Trip Log from Day 1 here.

INSIDER TIP: Since we’re on the topic of food – I highly recommend adding the meal plan when you book your visit to Pinehurst get access to this great breakfast and a full dinner each day. Everything I ordered during my stay was fantastic, and with 6 restaurants to choose from, you really can’t go wrong.

To start the day we had a tee time lined up at The Cradle – A 9-hole short course that’s nestled in a valley behind the main clubhouse where the first holes of the #1 and #3 courses used to be. Designed by Gil Hanse who also recently redesigned the #4 course, The Cradle’s nine holes range from 56 yards up to 127 yards. Most players carry a few wedges and a putter to navigate this little gem. Even though we played it in the morning, the best time to go is after dinner.
Up at the top of the hill between the 3rd and 4th holes and along the walk between 8 and 9 sits a small teardrop trailer bar called The Acorn. It’s a very popular spot in the late afternoon when players come off one of the big courses and want to enjoy a few adult beverages while settling some bets on the short course. The atmosphere is similar to that of a low-key college block party, with music playing, drinks flowing and people navigating the fabulous par three course in various sized groups, attire and states of mind. It’s not uncommon for groups of 5 or 6 to play the course barefoot with a drink in hand. It’s all about unwinding at The Cradle.

We teed off on the No. 4 course just after lunch for a nice walk with our caddie and were fortunate to avoid any bad weather the rest of the afternoon. It had rained quite hard the previous evening, but the course drained very well. Being in the sandhills region of North Carolina has immense benefits for golf, and good irrigation and drainage is just one of them.
Unfortunately I had never played the No. 4 course prior to the renovation by Gil Hanse but from what I saw the accolades Mr. Hanse and Pinehurst Resort received for their work are well deserved. The layout of the No. 4 course caught me off guard, with dramatic elevation changes and water features I was not anticipating. The routing is quite brilliant at saving the player from having to walk up too many steep slopes, even though there are several holes that play very much down hill. The steepest slope is on the monstrous Par-4 5th hole that measures 489 yards from tha back tees. It takes a bomb off the tee to reach the top of the hill, but if you do you’re rewarded by a downslope that can add 20+ yards to your tee shot.

After a grueling test of golf from the back tees on the No. 4 course, I understand why this course (along with the No. 2) was selected as host venue for the 2019 US Amateur Championship.

Enjoying a drink at “The Deuce” behind the 18th green of Pinehurst No. 2

After 9 at The Cradle and 18 on the No. 4 course, our evening started with a few drinks at The Deuce, which is the restaurant & bar located in the clubhouse right behind the 18th green of the No. 2 course. The patio is a fantastic place to sit in an old rocking chair and watch the late groups coming up the 18th hole. Later in the evening as the alcohol starts to flow more liberally, the folks on the patio are a little less reserved and have a habit of cheering or clapping for good shots, and jeering and booing the poor ones. It’s a great atmosphere, and I look forward to my own walk up the 18th hole, hoping to get cheers from the crowd.

Our final stop for the day was dinner at the famed Pinehurst Brewing Company. It’s not only the best microbrew in the sandhills, but it’s also the best smokehouse. They serve up pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs and chicken smoked on site. I got the sampler to try everything, and it was fantastic. The great thing is, Pinehurst Brewing Company is also included in the meal plans as part of your package.

Day 2 was a full day, and wore us out. Time for a restful sleep to recharge, because tomorrow we take on the legendary No. 2 course!
July 7, 2020
Pinehurst Resort & JSX Partner for All-Inclusive Summer Golf Getaway
The Cradle of American Golf and Leading Hop-on Jet Service Offer Direct Flights to Pinehurst from Dallas and New York

Pinehurst Resort and JSX are offering the ultimate, all-inclusive summer golf getaway featuring non-stop, roundtrip service from Dallas Love Field and Westchester County (N.Y.) Airport to Moore County Airport, just 10 minutes from the resort and historic Village of Pinehurst.

The limited time, direct route service from these two golf hotbeds is bundled with Pinehurst’s “Summer Tee Golf Package,” one of the resort’s most popular stay-and-play options for golfers looking to experience as much world-class golf as possible over three or four days.

“We’re proud to partner with Pinehurst Resort to provide crowd-free, worry-free flights to America’s most historic golf destination,” says JSX CEO Alex Wilcox. “By offering a safe and efficient travel experience, we eliminate the uncertainty and hassle of commercial flying to give golfers peace of mind and the absolute fastest way from takeoff to tee time.”

All-Inclusive Packages Highlights:
- Roundtrip airfare on JSX’s 30-seat luxury jets with business class service and no middle seats
- Airport transfers from SOP to Pinehurst Resort and back
- Accommodations at the majestic Carolina Hotel, the “Queen of the South”
- Three or four rounds of golf on any of the resort’s nine 18-hole courses, including famed No. 2
- A full breakfast and hearty dinner each day
Dallas Package Snapshot (Three Nights):
- Three night-stay, three rounds of golf
- June 25-28, July 2-5 or July 9-12 (Thurs. – Sun.)
- Thurs. depart DAL 8 a.m., arrive SOP 11:30 a.m.
- Sun. depart SOP 6 p.m., arrive DAL 7:30 p.m.
- Price: $2,499 (double occupancy)
New York Package Snapshot (Three Nights):
- Three-night stay, three rounds of golf
- June 25-28, July 2-5 or July 9-12 (Thurs. – Sun.)
- Thurs. depart HPN 2:30 p.m., arrive SOP 4 p.m.
- Sun. depart SOP 2 p.m., arrive HPN 3:30 p.m.
- Three-Night Price: $2,499 (double occupancy)
New York Package Snapshot (Four Nights):
- Four-night stay, four rounds of golf
- June 28 – July 2 or July 5-9 (Sun. – Thurs.)
- Sun. depart HPN 4 p.m., arrive SOP 5:30 p.m.
- Thurs. depart SOP 12:30 p.m., arrive HPN 2 p.m.
- Price: $2,899 (double occupancy)
“JSX helps us to deliver an all-inclusive and efficient seasonal travel experience that’s incredibly easy to book and enjoy,” says Tom Pashley, President of Pinehurst Resort. “We look forward to welcoming golfers to the North Carolina Sandhills and the Home of American Golf.”

For more information or to book the Dallas Package, visit www.pinehurst.com/jsx-dallas-to-pinehurst/; for New York, visit www.pinehurst.com/jsx-new-york-to-pinehurst/.

About Pinehurst

Established in 1895 in the Sandhills of North Carolina, Pinehurst Resort & Country Club is a 2,200-acre property featuring nine outstanding golf courses, a 9-hole par-3 course, 16 clay tennis courts, an award-winning spa, other recreation and social activities for families, and elegant accommodations across one hotel, two inns and condos.

Widely known as the Cradle of American Golf, Pinehurst hosted more single golf championships – including the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, PGA Championship, the Ryder Cup and PGA TOUR Championship – than any other site in North America.

In 2024, it will again welcome the U.S. Open. The resort is slightly more than an hour from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, 90 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport and only a half-day drive from many east coast cities. To book tee times and golf packages: www.pinehurstresort.com, 855.235.8507.

About JSX

Founded in 2016, JSX is a hop-on jet service that’s faster on the ground, more comfortable in the air and competitively priced with flights starting from $89 each way. The company was recently honored by Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) as the 2020 “Best Overall Regional” air carrier in North America and by Fast Company as one of the “Most Innovative Companies” of 2020.

JSX flights may be booked directly through www.jsx.com, the newly launched JSX mobile app, or through codeshare partner JetBlue on multiple online travel sites (note: “Escape” package is not available through JetBlue). TrueBlue members may earn points on JSX flights.

JSX currently serves six destinations daily from Burbank (BUR), Orange County (SNA), Oakland (OAK), East Bay/Napa/Concord (CCR), Las Vegas (LAS), and Phoenix (PHX) as well as seasonal and pop-up service to Pinehurst, Mammoth Lakes, Monterey and Coachella Valley.

JSX’s luxuriously appointed Embraer 135 and 145 jets may also be chartered for group trips, corporate events or other travel. For a custom quote, contact 800-iFLYJSX.
June 26, 2020
Pinehurst Resort Trip Log – Day 1
My buddy and I left Daytona Beach, Florida this morning for the 485 mile drive to the village of Pinehurst, North Carolina for a weekend in the cradle of American golf and the amazing courses it has to offer. The drive took just over 7 hours (not including a stop for lunch) and we made it in less than a full tank of gas.

We arrived just before dinner and checked in to the Carolina Hotel, then headed straight to the main clubhouse to roll some putts around the “Thistle Dhu” Putting Course, which is simply a huge extremely sloping putting green with 18 holes to challenge you and your buddies. The tee markers are also cup holders, which comes in handy because it’s the perfect place to consume a few adult beverages, trash talk and settle some outstanding bets after a round.

After 18 holes on the putting course and a quick tour of the clubhouse and pro shop, we enjoyed dinner at the Pinehurst Brewing Company, which is a must when coming to town. The food is fantastic, the beer selection is diverse and the atmosphere is laid back. Insider Tip: Get the smoked chicken wings!

Tomorrow we will warm up with a quick round on the “Cradle” short course, followed by 18 holes on the newly renovated No. 4 course. Stay tuned!
June 19, 2020
3 Unique Gift Ideas for Father’s Day
Father’s Day is only three weeks away and if you haven’t thought of anything for dad, here are a few ideas that are sure to bring a big smile to his face. We’re keeping it simple this year with one club, one service and one destination.

Full bag Fitting from True Spec Golf

https://youtu.be/t8KqXOACe1M

I’ve lost track of how many times I have emphasized the importance of fitting when buying new golf clubs, but it’s a lot! Golf clubs are expensive, so if you are going to spend upwards of $2000 for a new set, it’s going to be worth a few extra hundred buck to get those clubs dialed in with the right shaft and specs.

I’ve been to a couple of True Spec Golf’s locations for fittings and on every occasion they’ve knocked it out of the park and helped my golf game. A few years ago a fitting with True Spec Golf in Jupiter led to them building me a three-wood that goes almost 10 yards further than the last, without losing accuracy. Most recently at True Spec in Orlando I discovered a new iron shaft that will give me half a club more distance by optimizing launch and spin conditions for my swing. We’re talking 6-8 yards more distance. That’s a huge gain for irons by just changing shafts!

If you are buying new clubs or simply want to dial in your existing clubs, a fitting professional from True Spec Golf can and will help your game. They guarantee it! To schedule your fitting today, visit https://www.truespecgolf.com/

Summer Tee Golf Package at Pinehurst Resort
Nestled in the sandhills about 70 miles south of Raleigh, North Carolina is the village of Pinehurst, and the surrounding area has some of the best golf in North America. At the center of this Eastern golf mecca is the famed Pinehurst Resort. With nine golf courses (and a great short course) designed by some of the game’s most iconic designers, world-class accommodations and top-notch dining, Pinehurst has it all. Why not send dad and his buddies on a golf trip they’ll never forget?

Pinehurst Resort’s Summer Tee Golf Package includes resort accommodations for three nights, breakfast and dinner each day, three rounds of golf and – a fourth round for free. There’s a surcharge for the no. 2 course, but it’s probably worth it just to walk in the footsteps of the 2014 US Open Champions from the PGA and LPGA Tour.

I’m heading up to Pinehurst myself on Father’s Day weekend, so stay tuned for lots of social media coverage on our Instagram & Facebook pages. For more information about Pinehurst golf packages and to reserve your spot today, visit their website here: https://www.pinehurst.com/offers/

Timeless Golf Company – Carbon Steel Putters That Won’t Break The Bank
To say I’m a putter enthusiast would be a bit of an understatement, as I own no less than 30 flatsticks. I also love learning about new companies and their products, so I was pretty excited when I found out about Timeless Putters.

Timeless manufactures affordable carbon steel putters and offers two models – The Tradition and the Legacy, each shaped like classic putters from Karsten Solheim (Tradition) and Scotty Cameron (Legacy) that truly have stood the test of time and have become “timeless.”

Carbon steel is soft and heavy – A great combination for a precision milled putter. Head weights come in at about 350 grams, and plenty of customization options are available such as finish (Black, Satin or Blue PVD) length, lie, loft, shaft and stamping. I personally recommend spending the money to upgrade to the amazing BGT Stability Tour shaft.

I’ve had my Timeless legacy putter in blue PVD for 6 weeks and have been on a tear with it lately. The feel of a carbon steel putter is second to none, the putter sits perfectly square at address, rolls the ball great and the finish is unique and very attractive.

The greatest thing about Timeless putters is that they are affordable. Most companies that make customizable carbon steel putters will charge well over $500 for their putters, but Timeless sells their stock models for only $299. This is a disruptive and unbeatable price for this kind of putter. Take a look for yourself – You won’t be disappointed. https://www.timelessputters.com/
June 5, 2020
Golf Groups, Buddy Trips Find a Home at Pinehurst Resort’s Reimagined Manor Inn

There’s no shortage of world-class accommodations at Pinehurst Resort. The famed Carolina Hotel with its sweeping verandas, regal white exterior and signature copper roof, exudes the very essence and spirit of Pinehurst.

The charming, intimate Holly Inn located in the heart of the Village is Pinehurst’s oldest hotel, having opened in 1895. It’s wildly popular with returning guests who relish a taste of vintage Pinehurst, as well as cocktail in the Tavern and four course dinner at the 1895 Grille.

And now, Pinehurst Resort’s Manor Inn has been reborn as a haven for golf groups and buddy trips. Fitting, considering the 43-room hotel on the corner of Magnolia and Community Roads was a favorite of a young Arnold Palmer when he visited the “Cradle of American Golf” during his salad days.

The King was always the life of the party during his days on the PGA Tour and would no doubt approve of the Manor Inn’s new look and esprit de corps positioning. One can almost envision him holding court in the Inn’s Library or embroiled in a poker game in the cozy Club Room.

First opened in 1923 and acquired in 1990 by the resort, golfers like Palmer and his father Deacon have gravitated toward Manor Inn’s relaxed vibe, cozy enclaves and off-the-beaten-path location a short walk from The Carolina Hotel and resort hub.

Now, that gravitational pull is even stronger, buoyed by a spacious, communal lobby, larger king and double queen rooms with hardwood floors and two finely appointed hospitality suites that accommodate groups up to 20 (available for the entire length of stay).

The centerpiece of lobby is the North & South Bar. Featuring a vast selection of fine whiskey and craft beers from Pinehurst Brewing Co. next door, the bar is adorned with vintage advertising and photos paying homage to the historic North & South Amateur Championship, played at Pinehurst since 1901.

The bar’s signature element is the dramatic ceiling, with an illustration of the original routing of Donald Ross’ first four courses at Pinehurst.

And it’s not just what’s inside the renovated Manor Inn that will astound guests. A new patio outside the North & South Bar features three firepits, seating for 20 and a soothing water feature (a full day of golf can be a strenuous endeavor).

Sipping a single malt Scotch or fresh IPA on the patio, the view is slightly downhill to Pinehurst Brewing Co., below. Opened in 2018, “PBC” quickly emerged as the Village of Pinehurst’s most popular gathering spot. Housed in the old steam plant building, it serves up award-winning brews, barbeque smoked onsite and handcrafted pizza.

The lone original component to the Manor following the renovation is its fabled exterior structure of the unique Kellastone, a special stucco-style building material that was new to the era and known for its permanence.

“Our intention was to improve upon and modernize the guest experience while still preserving the Manor’s unique charm,” said Bob Dedman, Jr., Pinehurst Resort’s chief executive offer. “I think we’ve accomplished that in fine fashion. Our mantra is simple: always Pinehurst, but always better.”

For Pinehurst Resort, “better” has included an astonishing run over the past decade, bookended by the restoration of its famed No. 2 course by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw in 2011, and renovation of No. 4 by Gil Hanse in 2018.

Pinehurst No 4 – 11th hole

Also, during this historic span, the resort opened the country’s most talked about short course, The Cradle, acquired nearby National Golf Club and rebranded it as No. 9 and expanded its 18-hole putting course (Thistle Dhu).

Golfers now have more dining options than ever before, with the aforementioned PBC (owned by the resort) and addition of The Deuce, a full-service bar and grill in the clubhouse overlooking the 18^th green of No. 2.

The resort’s Donald Ross Golf Package is an excellent option for experiencing the Manor Inn and a sampling of Pinehurst’s championship golf lineup. It includes a two-night stay, three rounds of golf, overflowing breakfast buffet and dinner, daily.

For more information or to check rates and availability, visit www.pinehurst.com.

March 10, 2020