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Discover Paradise at The Hideout Golf Club & Resort in Brownwood, Texas The Secret’s Out. The Hideout’s In. For those fortunate enough to experience it, there’s another word for paradise: *home*. Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Brownwood, The Hideout Golf Club & Resort offers an idyllic escape for anyone seeking the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, luxurious relaxation, and Central Texas charm. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of championship golf, a peaceful lakeside retreat, or the dream of calling this stunning destination home, The Hideout promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s why this hidden gem is one of Central Texas’s favorite destinations. Championship Golf Like No Other At the heart of The Hideout is an 18-hole championship golf course that offers both beauty and challenge. Designed to take full advantage of the rolling Texas landscape, the course features lush fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and breathtaking views of Lake Brownwood. It’s a place where every swing feels like a step closer to paradise.Whether you're an avid golfer or a weekend warrior, The Hideout’s course is perfect for sharpening your skills or simply enjoying a leisurely day on the green. Lakefront Living & Luxurious Stays But The Hideout isn’t just for golfers—it’s for anyone looking to unwind in style. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from charming cabins to elegant vacation homes, all designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. With Lake Brownwood as your backdrop, you can enjoy stunning sunsets, tranquil mornings, and endless outdoor activities right at your doorstep. Guests can take advantage of fishing, boating, or just lounging by the lake. The resort also boasts a pristine pool, spa services, and casual dining options, making it a haven for rest and relaxation. A Place to Call Home For those who fall in love with The Hideout—and it’s hard not to—the resort offers the opportunity to make this paradise your permanent address. The Hideout features a variety of homesites and real estate options that allow you to build your dream home right on the shores of Lake Brownwood. Imagine waking up to the serene beauty of the lake, enjoying a round of golf, and embracing the best that Texas living has to offer—all in one place. Your Central Texas Paradise Awaits Whether you’re here to play, stay, or live, The Hideout Golf Club & Resort in Brownwood, Texas, is a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered. From its award-winning golf course to its luxurious accommodations and homesites, The Hideout offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and easy living. The secret’s out—paradise is closer than you think. Experience The Hideout, and find your own version of home. For more information on making the Hideout an open secret for a weekend, a week or much longer, you can go to www.thehideouttexas.com or call 325-784-8000.

Enjoying a round of golf, savoring delicious Texas cuisine, and taking in breathtaking views make for an unforgettable trip to the Glen Rose Golf and Somervell Country area in North Texas.One of the leading attractions here is the public championship Squaw Creek golf course, first opened in 1992 by Texas architect Jeffrey Brauer and later updated by Fort Worth’s John Colligaan. The two courses, Comanche Lakes and Apache Links, serve as a grand golf introduction to the scenic area. “We keep improving the courses, but also what’s around the layouts as well,” said Kelly Harris, tourism director for Glen Rose and Somervell County. “That’s one of the items which keep people coming back to this wonderful area.”Squaw Valley is located in Glen Rose, just 60 miles southwest of the DFW Metroplex. It’s home to 36 holes of Championship Golf, and are consistently rated as one of the top courses in the state, including a 4 1/2 star rating from Golf Digest Magazine. It is also home to the  #1 and  #4 municipal courses in Texas as ranked by The Dallas Morning News in its annual statewide survey. Plus, the Rooster Bar & Grill are good any time to fuel up before or after 18. For more information go to https://www.squawvalleygc.com .

I had the pleasure of interviewing Cowboy Balladeer, Buck Shannon, who serves as the Entertainment Director at The Flying L Ranch Resort in Bandera, Texas. Buck is known for his captivating performances and deep connection to the cowboy lifestyle, bringing authentic Western entertainment to the resort's guests. With a passion for storytelling through music, Buck creates an unforgettable experience, sharing the spirit of the Texas Hill Country with all who visit. His dedication to preserving cowboy traditions shines through in every performance, making him a beloved figure at the resort.

The 2024 college golf season is upon us. The first week of September marks the first tournament for many programs across the US, both men's and women’s. The Preseason number 1 is no surprise as the Auburn Tiger’s men’s program is widely regarded as the best team in the nation claiming all but 3 first-place votes. They Kick off their run to repeat as national champions in Ohio at the prestigious Inverness Club on September 9th where their young and talented roster looks to prove their believers right. On the Women’s side Stanford’s national championship team leads off the season as the number 1 team in the nation they don’t jump into the action until later this month but when they do, they dive in head-first at Cals invitational then less than a week later play number 3 ranked Texas in a match play. This early match up will serve as a good measuring stick for both teams who have a national championship in sight for this season. This 2024 season will be a test of endurance for both the men's and the women’s side as the season starts this week but won’t stop until late May that’s 9 months of competition and practice these players will need to care of not only their body’s but their minds if they wish to win it all. The national championships this year take place for the men in Carlsbad, California Omni La Costa Resort & Spa – Champions Course and as for the women it will take place on the same course just a week prior.

Fort Worth is home to many outstanding golf courses from public to simi private and showcases all that golf has to offer. With over 40 golf courses in Fort Worth and the surrounding area, there is no shortage of amazing courses to play. If you're in the spirit for some competition the first weekend in September Fort Worth Golfs has its 3rd summer event at Rockwood Park. Rockwood Park is a Municipal course that challenges players of all skill levels. The CFW Men’s championship takes place on Saturday the 7th and Sunday the 8th on this par 72 course. This is a chance to test your skills in a competitive environment one more time before the summer ends. This tournament has 8 flights based on handicaps so that players of all skill levels can compete and win. Prizes will be given out to each of the winners after the conclusion on Sunday. Players will be given lunch on Saturday as part of the entry fee. The best part is that there are only 2 requirements: Be at least 18 years old and have a USGA handicap. Don’t miss out on your chance to play this prestigious event to conclude the summer season. We hope to see you at the beautiful Rockwood Park. https://fortworthgolf.org

Unforgettable Moments at Hazeltine: A New Amateur Champion Emerges The 2024 US amateur championship concluded Sunday at Hazeltine, a course that has seen many legendary Sunday finishes like the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in 2019 or the Ryder Cup in 2016, and of course, how could we forget the legendary duel between Tiger and Rich Beem in 2002. This week an amateur wrote his name in the record books at this historic course, Jose Luis Ballester became the first from Spain to win the US Amateur. Not only did he win, he did it against one of the strongest fields in the world with a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) event rating of 996.2581 to add context the average event holds around a 20-35 rating on WAGR. So how did he do it? By doing what we are always told to do in match play "try and make pars." In the championship match, he won 5 holes by just making par. He stayed patient and let his opponent make mistakes while seizing the opportunities when he had them. This coupled with his good deminer, and pro-level course management helped put the Sundevil over the top. This event gives us a glimpse of the future of the college golf world where almost half of the best amateurs are from outside of the USA. 24 of the 50 best amateurs in the world are from other countries. This new wave of young golfers will come from all over the world. College coaches seem to be the first to notice this, as the number of international golfers in the NCAA has seen an upward trend. With Jose Luis Ballester’s victory this week a whole new wave of Spaniards has been motivated to take on the game of golf and as more internationals write their name in the history books a plethora of motivated kids shall follow them to the college golf level.

New Braunfels, Texas is about to become even more thrilling as the groundbreaking entertainment venue, TopGolf, is set to make its debut in the bustling Boomtown. This exciting announcement has sent ripples of anticipation through the city, heralding a new era of entertainment that seamlessly blends golf, delectable cuisine, and vibrant socializing opportunities. Unveiling TopGolf: A Tech-Savvy Entertainment Haven For those unfamiliar, TopGolf isn't your run-of-the-mill driving range. It's a high-tech, upscale entertainment destination that masterfully merges cutting-edge technology with the timeless allure of golf. Picture a space where avid golfers, social butterflies, and food enthusiasts converge to create unforgettable memories under one roof. With TopGolf's arrival in New Braunfels, residents and visitors alike are in for a treat. The city's entertainment landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, promising endless fun and excitement for all who step through its doors. Why TopGolf is a Game-Changer Innovative Gameplay : At TopGolf, traditional golf gets a modern twist with interactive games and challenges suitable for players of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice swinger, there's something for everyone. Gastronomic Delights : Say goodbye to boring concession stand fare. TopGolf elevates the dining experience with a menu that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies cravings. From mouthwatering appetizers to gourmet entrees, their culinary offerings are sure to impress even the most discerning foodies. Social Hub : More than just a golfing destination, TopGolf is a vibrant social hub where friends, families, and colleagues come together to bond over a shared love of fun and camaraderie. It's the perfect setting for memorable gatherings and celebrations. The TopGolf Experience: What to Expect Prepare to be wowed by TopGolf's state-of-the-art facilities, featuring climate-controlled hitting bays, plush lounges, and a lively atmosphere that exudes energy and excitement. Whether you're looking to hone your golfing skills, enjoy a night out with friends, or host a corporate event with a twist, TopGolf offers something for everyone. Join the Fun in Boomtown As the countdown to TopGolf's grand opening in New Braunfels begins, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. Excitement is in the air, and residents are buzzing with speculation about what this new addition will bring to their city. So, if you're ready to swing into fun and experience golfing like never before, make sure to mark your calendars for the much-anticipated opening of TopGolf in Boomtown, New Braunfels. Get ready to tee off on a whole new level of entertainment! In conclusion, TopGolf's imminent arrival in New Braunfels is poised to usher in a new era of excitement and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. With its winning combination of golf, gourmet dining, and social ambiance, TopGolf is set to become the go-to destination for fun-seekers of all ages. So, gear up for an unforgettable experience at TopGolf - the place where entertainment hits the sweet spot!

Welcome to the 2nd Annual Coby Stevens Charity Golf Classic! The tournament will be held at the beautiful Northgate Country Club in Houston, on Monday, November 11th. The event will be benefiting Intrepid Care. Intrepid Care is a nonprofit organization created to empower veterans through nature and sports. At Intrepid Care, their mission is to ignite transformation. They believe that nature heals, camaraderie strengthens, and friendships blossoms when veterans step into the great outdoors. The funds raised will support multiple programs taking veterans, service members, first responders or their families on outdoors activities like hunting and fishing trips, support sports activities, as well as provide financial support. Established in 2024, they are more than an organization; they are a movement of compassion. Intrepid Care is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Tax ID: 93-4403306 Last year, our goal was to raise $20,000 and we achieved it and MORE! This year, we would like to set the goal at $30,000 and be able to write a big check to Intrepid Care and plant seeds of hope. "Together, we'll create forests of healing, rivers of connection, and mountains of possibility." Your willingness to help make a difference will be greatly appreciated and we'll commit to 100% of the profits go straight to those deserving veterans! We'll also continue to work with the nonprofit organization, Remembering All Warriors (RAW), and help raise funds to purchase a service dog for a deserving veteran. We cannot think of a better day to hold a charity golf tournament raising money for veterans, than on VETERAN'S DAY, November 11th! Your generosity will go right to work helping deserving veterans. Please join us for a fun-filled day on the course and helping to raise money to achieve the goal. If you can't attend the event, please donate an act of kindness and rise your helping hand under open skies. You can visit the "Make A Donation" tab on the site today! REGISTER NOW at www.birdease.com Coby Stevens Apparel

There is a reason the Texas Golf Hall Of Fame flag flies so high, twenty five of its members are in the World Golf Hall Of Fame, the most of any state. Their members have won 83 major championships. From Ralph Guldahl’s 1937 Masters win to Angela Stanford’s 2018 Evian Championship, Texans have been making their mark on the game’s most important Championships. And the numbers, plus members, continue to grow with the 2024 class of inductees. The honorees will be celebrated during the formal induction ceremony,which will take place at the prestigious Houston Country Club, Houston, TX onMonday, October 21, 2024. This year’s class represents a remarkable group ofindividuals who have made significant contributions to the game of golf inTexas. Each inductee will be commemorated with a granite marker on the Texas Golf Walk of Fame at the historic Bracken-ridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio,Texas and at our newest Anchor Site at NTPGA The Ronny Golf Park in Frisco,Texas.“We are thrilled to welcome the 2024 class of inductees into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame,” said Board Chairman Reid Meyers. “These individuals have not only excelled in their respective categories buthave also significantly contributed to the legacy and growth of golf in Texas. We look forward to honoring their achievementsand celebrating their impact on the sport.”Alli Jarrett, Executive Director ofthe Texas Golf Hall of Fame, added,“This year’s inductees embody the spirit and excellence of Texas golf. Their dedication, talent, and contri-butions have left an indelible markon the sport, and we are honored torecognize their accomplishments. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their remarkable careers at the induction ceremony. About the Inductees: AMATEUR PLAYER Randy Sonnier Randy Sonnier, a native of The Woodlands, Texas, is an accredited pilot and amateur golfer. Throughout his career, he is a two-time Texas State Amateur Champion (1986, 1991), the Texas State Mid-Amateur Champion (1985), played on the World Amateur team (1984) and the Walker Cup Team (1985). In addition to his state and international accomplishments, Sonnier made multiple appearances at the Masters and U.S. Open from 1987 through 1994. Sonnier’s letter of recommendation was written by 1979 inductee Jack Burke, Jr. PROFESSIONAL PLAYERD.A. Weibring D.A. Weibring, a na-tive of Quincy, Illinois, and a resident of Texas for over 45 years, has an impressive resume of professional accomplish-ments and accolades.The Illinois State University graduate and member of the ISU Golf Hall of Fame has 10 combined victories on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions from 1979 through 2008. Weibring also founded the Byron Nelson Classic Junior Class and has been involved with it for the last 23 years.As the Founder of Golf Resources (Weibring Wolford Design), D.A. has designed/renovated, managed, or pro-vided agronomic consultation to 100+ courses in 25 states and four countries. LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTC. Malcolm Holland IIIC. Malcolm Holland III, a native of Dallas, Texas, is known for impacting the game of golf through personal service. He dedicated his time to improving the game at the national, state, and local levels. Holland’s talent is exemplified by innovating the competitive landscape of Junior golf, with a major impact made in efforts such as the College Golf Fellowship and the Legends Junior Tour. He’s given meaningful assistance to organizations dedicated to professionals, amateurs, and those just starting their journey. Holland was also the President of the Texas Golf Association and served on the USGA Executive Committee. Holland now serves as the Chairman of the Board, CEO and President of Veritex Holdings, Inc and Veritex Commu-nity Bank since the originations began in 2009 and 2010 respectively. PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Mike Ray, PGA Mike Ray, born in Borger, Texas, has made significant contributions to golf, particularly through his roles as Director of Member-Section Operations for the PGA of America and as Executive Director of the Southern Texas PGA.During his tenure, he grew the STPGA’s budget from $100,000 to over $4 million, established STPGA Scholarships awarding over $1 million, and built one of the most ro-bust junior programs in the country. One of Ray’s biggest accomplish-ments was his work around the Texas Junior Golf Alliance. Ray’s idea was to create one membership for juniors to play either STPGA or NT-PGA Junior Golf and receive a free membership to the Legends Junior Tour. This model continues to thrive today, with close to 100 2-Day Cham-pionships for the best junior golfers in Texas. Additionally, Ray was instrumental in reconstituting the Texas Golf Hall of Fame and a proponent of bringing the PGA of America Headquarters to Texas. Known as the “Head Pro of the STPGA,” he has mentored countless professionals and junior golfers. His legacy is marked by his dedication to growing the game and supporting the golf community. REGISTRY OF HISTORIC COURSES Royal Oaks Country Club (Dallas) Royal Oaks Country Club, established in 1967 and managed by Todd Harbour, has a storied history beginning at Glen Lakes Country Club.The club has remained true to the original layout and designs of Don January, Billy Martindale, and J. Press Maxwell, who hailed from a prestigious lineage of course architects. Royal Oaks boasts a pedigree that includes influ-ences from Southern Hills and Augusta National. Despite initial design challenges, the course opened in 1969 and has continually evolved, with notable redesigns by D.A. Weibring and Chet Williams.The club underwent a significant renovation in 2023, updating irrigation and replanting fairways, greens, and roughs. Renowned for nurturing talent, Royal Oaks is home to top golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Justin Leonard and Ryan Palmer and has been shaped by Pro Emeritus Randy Smith’s 46-year legacy. Smith’s dedication has fostered countless junior golfers who have achieved collegiate and professional suc-cess. With its rich history, commitment to junior golf, and welcoming environ-ment, Royal Oaks remains a vibrant and beloved community.The induction ceremony is open to the public, and tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit 2024 Gathering of Eagles Info, Tickets & Sponsorships.The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring individuals and courses that have significantly impacted the game of golf in Texas.

JAY HERNANDEZ, DENNIS QUAID, AND CHEECH MARIN STAR IN THE UPLIFTING SPORTS FILM, BASED ON THE TRUE STORY THAT HAS AUDIENCES CHEERING OWN OR RENT IT TOMORROW APRIL 30, 2024 THE ONLY WAY TO WATCH AT HOME WHILE STILL IN THEATERS ALSO AVAILABLE TO OWN ON DVD JUNE 11, 2024 Universal City, California, April 29, 2024 – Dare to dream! Earning an incredible 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, the inspirational true story by Mucho Mas Media, THE LONG GAME, will be available exclusively on digital platforms to own or rent tomorrow, April 30, 2024, and available to own on DVD June 11, 2024 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Described as “uplifting and thoroughly engaging” (Variety), THE LONG GAME boasts an incredible cast including: Emmy Award® nominee Dennis Quaid (The Hill, A Dog’s Purpose), Jay Hernandez (Suicide Squad), Cheech Marin (Champions), Jaina Lee Ortiz (“Station 19”), Brett Cullen (Joker) and Emmy Award® nominee Oscar Nuñez (The Proposal). The Long Game is a heart-felt and uplifting true story about five young Mexican-American caddies in 1957 who, barred from playing on the courses where they caddied, decided to build their own golf course in the South Texas desert with the help of their superintendent-turned-coach. Driven by their dedication and love of the sport, they would go on to shock the golf community by becoming Texas state champions. For more information on THE LONG GAME please visit: Website: https://www.thelonggame.movie/ Trailer: https://uni.pictures/TheLongGame_PremiumTrailer Facebook: /TheLongGameMovie |/UniversalPicturesAllAccess X: @LongGameMovie | @UniAllAccess Instagram: @TheLongGameMovie | @UniAllAccess #TheLongGame FILMMAKERS: Cast: Jay Hernandez, Julian Works, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Brett Cullen, Oscar Nuñez, Paulina Chávez, Gregory Diaz IV, José Julián with Cheech Marin and Dennis Quaid Casting By: Alan Luna, Natalie Ballesteros, Beth Blanks Music By: Hanan Townshend Costume Designers: Daniela Rivano and Akayla Nandi Edited By: James K. Crouch Production Designers: Carlos Osorio and John Parker Director Of Photography: Alex Quintana Co-Produced By: Joel M. Gonzales Executive Producers: Canelo Álvarez, Sherrese Clarke Soares, Alexis Garcia, Humberto G. Garcia, Christian Sosa, Simon Wise, Colleen Barshop, Vincent Cordero, Brian Eddy, Jeff Grossberg, Jack Shemtov, Ricky Joshi, Jeff Moseley, Julio M. Quintana, Michael E. Hollingsworth, Matthew Dwyer, David E. Campbell, Tim Mahler, Carter Pope, Jesse Mandujano, Jay Hernandez, Phillip Braun, and Jason Michael Gerber Produced By: Ben Howard, Dennis Quaid, Laura Quaid, Marla Quintana, and Jaiver Chapa, p.g.a Based on the Novel “Mustang Miracle” By: Humberto G. Garcia Screenplay By: Paco Farias & Jennifer C. Stetson and Julio Quintana Directed By: Julio Quintana TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD: Street Date: June 11, 2024 Selection Number: 191329263549 Layers: DVD 9 Aspect Ratio: 16:9 2.00:1 Anamorphic Widescreen Rating: PG for language, racial slurs, thematic material, some violence and brief rude material. Subtitles: English SDH, French Canadian, and Latin American Spanish Languages/Sound: English (Dolby Digital 5.1) Run Time: 01:52:43 ABOUT UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT: Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE – www.uphe.com) is a unit of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG). UFEG produces, acquires, markets and distributes filmed entertainment worldwide in various media formats for theatrical, home entertainment, television and other distribution platforms, as well as consumer products, interactive gaming and live entertainment. The global division includes Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Brand Development, Fandango, DreamWorks Animation Film and Television.  UFEG is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience.  NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. ABOUT MUCHO MAS MEDIA: Mucho Mas Media is a multimedia company that empowers and supports inclusive stories, filmmakers, and talent. Much Mas finds its stories and audience in the vast and colorful Latine communities in the US and abroad, bringing together our diverse but shared cultures through amazing storytelling in film and TV." CONTACT: Jason Geffen Head of Publicity, MAP360 Collective JGeffen@map360co.com

Ratchman’s contributions to Lone Star State golf garners nomination to prestigious Texas Golf Hall of Fame Mike Ratchman, the owner and publisher of Texas Golf Insider magazine, has been a constant and consistent presence on the Lone State State’s golf scene over the past 26 years. That longevity and excellence in promoting the state’s courses, news, trends and personalities have garnered Ratchman a nomination into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024, an ultimate honor for an uber-positive man who’s built his career and his life on relationships and friendships, both in the game of golf and outside the tees, fairways and greens. The New Braunfels-based Ratchman has been a voting member of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame for several years and considers that role “an honor in itself.” He’s over the moon about his nomination. “Just the thought of my picture hanging in the same building with greats like Byron Nelson, Lee Trevino, Ben Hogan, Justin Leonard and the list goes on ... it’s pretty humbling,” Ratchman said. “To be honest, I didn’t know anyone was paying attention.” Plenty has changed in golf since 1998 when Ratchman became the publisher of the magazine in that would eventually become Texas Golf Insider. He’s been able to handle the challenges and tests, surviving the tough times that has included hurricanes, droughts, recessions, pandemics – and now inflation. “I sure have seen a lot, and we are still here and still having fun doing it,” Ratchman said. “I keep things pretty simple. I do my job, and I do what I say I will do for our advertisers, our readers and our podcast viewers. And I hope everyone always enjoys the finished product.” Texas Golf Insider is the Lone Star State’s longest consistently produced publication and the only magazine available statewide, with actual printed copies found in golf shops and clubhouses from Amarillo to South Padre Island from Beaumont to El Paso, as well as out of state in golf travel destinations such as Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico and south of the border in Mexico. Ratchman is also the host (along with longtime partner and PGA professional Dave Roberts) of the highly popular “Golf After Hours” podcast, a rollicking weekly show on Facebook Live that highlights the best of Texas golf. Ratchman’s effusive personality and his enthusiasm for the game shines through in the format. Over the past 18 years, Ratchman and Roberts have interviewed some of the greats of all time such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player. Ratchman got his start in the “publishing business” when he worked in the banding department Oshkosh Daily Northwestern in his hometown of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where he lived until he was 19 years old. He’s been playing golf since he was 13; in those days Ratchman could still play his local Muni golf course barefooted. “Arnold Palmer was my hero at the time, and I watched him play every week,” Ratchman said. “I never thought in my wildest dreams that one day I would get to interview him. What a gracious man he was to give me time to get to know him.” After a few years of travel across the U.S., Ratchman and his family landed in San Antonio in the 1980s, “We settled in, and I have been in Texas ever since,” Ratchman explained. “I have been an avid golfer now for over 60 years, having worked at driving ranges for many years as a part-timer to hone the game that I’m totally addicted to.” Ratchman won the Southern Texas section’s PGA Media/Public Relation Award in 2014 for significant contribution for promotion and public awareness that helped elevate the status of South Texas’ PGA professionals. Texas Golf Insider is a marketing partner and participant in the Rudy's I-35 Cup and through the years has helped raised over $520,000 to benefit the Austin and San Antonio First Tee programs and Africa New Life. “I’m proud to represent Texas golf whenever I go and I am passionate about promoting it as well as the many charities we have worked with,” Ratchman said. The future is bright as golf continues to grow in Texas and around the world. If there is a golf story to write or someone to interview about the game, Texas Golf Insider will be there. “It has been my pleasure over the past 26 years as a publisher to distribute more than 2.5 million magazines throughout Texas and across the nation and Canada,” Ratchman said. “In 18 years of broadcasting we’ve reached nearly 2 million viewers while promoting Texas as a premier golf destination.”

Golf enthusiasts from all corners of the globe gathered at the expansive Orange County Convention Center in late January for the much-anticipated 2023 PGA Show. The event marked the traditional kick-start of the golf season for many, amidst a continued surge in interest post-COVID. Over 800 golf companies participated in this annual showcase, unveiling a plethora of innovative products set to hit shelves this spring. Seth Waugh, CEO of the PGA of America, commented on the vibrant atmosphere of the PGA Show: “The energy on the PGA Show floor was fantastic. I grew up on a trading floor [of the New York Stock Exchange] and this reminds me of the energy and enthusiasm of a busy trading day. It is reflective of the [golf] industry, basically booming. The industry played defense for a couple of years during the pandemic, but this week has underscored that golf is back and the PGA Show is back in a big way.” Technology was a standout trend at the 2023 PGA Show, as golf companies embraced everyday tech to elevate their offerings and attract new players to the sport. Toptracer Technology, a Texas-based company, showcased its cutting-edge technology at the event, allowing golfers to analyze their shots on an iPad-sized screen, providing instant feedback and the ability to share results with instructors. This innovative system is set to make its debut at the upcoming Omni PGA Frisco Resort in May, offering guests a unique way to improve their skills. Martin Wyeth, the mind behind PowerTee, also introduced his own advanced technology from the UK to the American market with a focus on enhancing the customer experience. The PowerTee platform, featuring an automatic tee-up system and shot display, aims to revolutionize the practice session by offering a seamless user experience. Additionally, EA Sports and the PGA Tour joined forces to unveil the Majors Collection, which includes an exact digital replica of Augusta National.  This innovative gaming experience, available for purchase online or in retail stores, features accurate renditions of all four major championship venues, the Ryder Cup, and 30 top global courses, promising colorful and detailed gameplay. In the realm of innovative golf gear, Mike Forsey, CEO and co-founder of Payntr Golf, introduced a revolutionary concept by incorporating technology into golf shoes. Featuring classic spiked and spikeless designs, these shoes boast a transparent propulsion plate for enhanced lift-off, luxurious full leather uppers and soles, and a groundbreaking blister-proof guarantee. With a remarkable 580% increase in sales year-over-year, Payntr Golf has successfully navigated the supply chain challenges, ensuring more golfers have access to their performance-driven footwear. Meanwhile, Kenneth Duncan, CEO of Renegade Golf based in Atlanta, made his inaugural appearance at the show, showcasing USGA-approved golf balls and custom golf bags. As a newcomer eager to learn from industry giants, Duncan aims to elevate his business and make golf more accessible, affordable, and appealing to a wider audience. His commitment to innovation and inclusivity reflects a desire to expand the reach of golf beyond traditional circles and introduce the sport to new enthusiasts. At the 2023 PGA Show, attendees indulged in a variety of golf-inspired food and beverages to enhance their on-course experience. From energizing chocolate bites to CBD gummies for added intensity, and Gin Fizz concoctions endorsed by golf legend Annika Sorenstam to shake off those undesirable shots. Austin's own Old Trapper jerky garnered attention for its role as a go-to snack for golf enthusiasts. As the second-largest jerky brand globally, Old Trapper's savory offerings were a hit amongst attendees looking for a flavorful and convenient snack option. Notably, the Oklahoma-based Folds of Honor organization made a significant impact at the event by showcasing their commitment to providing college scholarships to children of fallen military members, first responders, and other deserving individuals. Colonel Dan Rooney, the founder of Folds of Honor, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support, highlighting the organization's remarkable achievement of raising $55 million to aid those in need. Through initiatives like Patriot Golf Days held nationwide, partnerships with corporate sponsors, and the collaboration with Jack Nicklaus on the new American Dunes course in Michigan, Folds of Honor continues to make a positive difference in the lives of many. In addition to exciting food and philanthropic elements, the presence of various golf destinations and travel companies added to the show's allure. Boasting expansive booths, Ireland and Scotland captivated attendees with their picturesque courses and rich golfing heritage. The upcoming Ryder Cup location in Rome also garnered attention, along with exciting offerings from several Caribbean destinations, enticing golf enthusiasts to plan their next golf getaway with an array of options to consider. As Texas Golf Insider continues to cover the latest trends, developments, and stories in the golf industry, we are proud to bring you exclusive coverage and insights from events like the 2023 PGA Show. Stay connected with us for in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes access, and engaging content that celebrates the rich tapestry of Texas golf and beyond. Check out our latest edition and be sure to contact us with any questions!