Search Results

Calling all golf enthusiasts and explorers of Texas! If you're passionate about the sport and eager to delve into its rich history, there's no better place to visit than the Texas Golf Hall of Fame. Nestled within the picturesque Brackenridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio, this remarkable institution brings together the best of golfing excellence, from legendary players to its captivating heritage. Join Texas Golf Insider on a literary tour of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame where you'll uncover a world of fascinating exhibits, discover the charm of the Brackenridge Park Golf Course, and celebrate the remarkable individuals who have shaped the state's golfing lore. Immerse Yourself in Golfing Greatness Step into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame and be transported to a world chronicling the state's golfing legacy. Explore the vibrant exhibits showcasing the achievements of inductees like Tom Kite, Ben Crenshaw, Byron Nelson, Lee Trevino, and Babe Didrikson Zaharias. Marvel at their remarkable careers chronicled through mementos, trophies, and fascinating memorabilia. Each exhibit tells a unique story of ambition, perseverance, and excellence, filling visitors with admiration and inspiration. Brackenridge Park Golf Course: A Mecca for Golfing Enthusiasts Adjacent to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame lies the breathtaking Brackenridge Park Golf Course. This historic course, nestled amidst the serene beauty of San Antonio's Brackenridge Park, offers a challenging yet captivating experience for players of all abilities. Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes, tackle the meticulously designed fairways, and soak in the rich atmosphere that has enticed both amateur and professional golfers for over a century. Honoring Texas' Golfing Legends Texas has produced some of the greatest golfers in history, and the Texas Golf Hall of Fame is the ultimate testament to their brilliance. Celebrate the extraordinary careers of these individuals as you discover their unwavering dedication to the sport. Their stories will ignite your passion for the game and leave you with a profound appreciation for their remarkable talents. Events and Guided Tours The Texas Golf Hall of Fame also hosts a range of events, including charity tournaments, exhibitions, and special gatherings that offer visitors unique opportunities to connect with golfing aficionados and legends of the game. Guided tours led by knowledgeable staff further enhance your visit by providing captivating insights into the exhibits, making your experience truly unforgettable. Embark on a golfing pilgrimage to the heart of San Antonio and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame. Celebrate the exceptional individuals who have left an indelible mark on the state's golfing history, encounter the allure of the world-renowned Brackenridge Park Golf Course, and leave inspired by the enduring legacy of the sport. Whether you're a golf enthusiast, Texas Golf Insider buff, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Texas Golf Hall of Fame promises an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Texas' golfing heritage.

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!

Buy your airline ticket, pack your golf clubs and get ready to unleash your inner Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy or Jason Day. Here’s six of the best public golf courses in the USA... SOUTH CAROLINA - Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. Voted the “Fifth Best New Public Course in America” upon opening its gates in 1994, the accolades have never stopped rolling in for Mark Strantz’s first design on the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach. It feels like a journey back in time as you drive along the grand entrance lined with rows of centuries-old live oaks draped with Spanish moss to reach the Old South clubhouse. Often compared to Augusta National for its exquisite style, floral beauty, and velvety fairways and greens, Caledonia has a sleepy ambiance that embraces its Southern roots. Built on the site of an old rice plantation and overlooking the picturesque Waccamaw River, Strantz has artfully crafted the site’s streams, ponds and moss- covered oaks to create a hugely enjoyable test of golf.Amid the scenic backdrop of blooming flowers and colourful shrubs are some memorable holes such as the picturesque par-3 11th with a snaking creek to the green, the par-4 13th that doglegs around a giant oak tree and the wonderful closing hole. The par-4 18th borders the Plantation’s old rice field, and requires a precise drive that sets up a difficult second shot - a forced carry onto a green at the foot of the clubhouse, where its tradition for onlookers sitting in rocking chairs sipping their drinks, to respond appropriately and sometimes bet on the results of player’s shots. After your round, pull up a rocking chair on the clubhouse porch and enjoy a cold beer, while taking in what must be one of America’s best 19th-holes. Visit us at www.fishclub.com for more information. NEVADA –Wolf Creek Located 77 miles north of LasVegas at Mesquite, this is 18 holes of fantasy golf at its ultimate best. Opened in 2000, this visually captivating desert design immediately drew rave reviews andWolf Creek is now firmly established as one of America’s top public courses.There are precious few courses that can generate a genuine sense of awe for several holes at a stretch and exceedingly rare is the layout that can sustain the feeling for an entire round;Wolf Creek is such a place. Set high above the desert floor among red-rock canyons, teeming waterfalls and glistening creeks, it looks as though strips of green velvet have been laid out on a Mars-like landscape. After the tee shot at the 579-yard par-5 opening hole its a roller-coaster golfing adventure among sculpted hills and canyons with several elevation changes, 98 bunkers and forced carries over streams and ravines. Developer Doug Clemetson was determined to leave the distinctive natural landscape in place, accepting that a number of non-traditional golf holes would result. On the 2nd tee box, for example, 90 granite steps lead up to the driving area, which is located some 11 stories high.The 3rd hole plays uphill to one of the highest points on the course with 70-mile views, and par-3 11th’s green is an island in a sea of red rock and typical ofWolf Creek’s dazzling visual appeal. Visit us at www. golfwolfcreek.com WISCONSIN –Whistling Straits Billionaire bathroom supplier Herb Kohler had a dream of building a Scottish- style links sculpted along a two-mile stretch of the Lake Michigan shoreline in Wisconsin, and Pete Dye’s creation in 1998 exceeded his expectations, going on to become a major championship venue.The course first hosted the fourth major of the year, the PGA Championship, in 2004 whenVijay Singh was the champion, and since then, Martin Kaymer in 2010 and Jason Day in 2015 have made up the trio of golfers to lift theWanamakerTrophy. It also hosted the Ryder Cup in 2021. It’s a rugged, windswept layout which is more akin to an Irish or Scottish links with undulating fairways bordered by wispy fescue grasses, contoured greens and roughly 1000 bunkers, which must be heading for a world record.There are several standout holes including two memorable shore-hugging par-3’s; hole-7 (Shipwreck) and hole-17 (Pinched Nerve) with spectacular views over Lake Michigan. Polls regularly acknowledge Whistling Straits as one of America’s top 10 greatest public courses. Visit www. americanclubresort.com. CALIFORNIA – Pebble Beach “If I had only one more round to play, I would choose to play it at Pebble Beach. I’ve loved this course from the first time I saw it. It’s possibly the best in the world,” said 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus, and there are few thrills in golf to match teeing off for the first time on Pebble Beach Golf Links, ranked number one on Golf Digest’s ‘100 Greatest Public Courses in America List 2015/2016.’The course oozes history andatmosphere,andsinceopening in1919 it has hosted some of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, including six U.S. Open Championships andtheannualAT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.Over the years, the exquisite beauty and unique challenge of Pebble Beach has thrilled golfers and spectators alike.The course hugs the rugged coastline, providing wide-open vistas, and cliffside fairways and greens,withtheocean’s crashingsurfasa backdrop. Some of the most spectacular holes are five to eight, which are on the promontory between Stillwater Cove and the Pacific Ocean. As you walk in the footsteps of legends, you anticipate each and every storied hole while recounting magical moments in golf history, such as the par-3 17th, whereTomWatson chipped in during the 1982 U.S.Open. Is it worth the eye-watering green fee of $595? Yes, at least once in a lifetime. Visit us at www. pebblebeach.com NORTH CAROLINA - Pinehurst No. 2 This star attraction of Pinehurst Resort’s nine courses remains one of the world’s best and most celebrated golf courses. Pinehurst no.2 has served as the site of more single golf championships than any course in America and, in 2014, made history again, becoming the first to serve as host to the U.S. Open and U.S.Women’s Open Championships in consecutive weeks. Opened in 1907, Pinehurst No. 2 was designed by Donald Ross, who called it “the fairest test of championship golf I have ever designed.” Ross was associated with the course for nearly a half-century, improving the course continually until his death in 1948. Pinehurst No. 2 is best known for its crowned, undulating greens, which are some of the most complex and widely hailed in the world. In March 2011, the course reopened following a yearlong, $2.5 million restoration by the design firm of Coore & Crenshaw that restored the course’s natural and historic character. Over the years, its champions have included some of the greatest players in history including Walter Hagen, Sam nead, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Payne Stewart.The course will host the U.S. Open once again in 2024.Visit www.pinehurst.com ARIZONA –Troon North Troon North is the essence of the desert golf experience, with two top- notch 18-hole layouts (the Monument and Pinnacle Courses) stretching through natural ravines and foothills of the high Sonoran desert, in the shadows of Pinnacle Peak. Both immaculately groomed courses will challenge you with their lush green fairways bordered by boulders, rock formations and huge Saguaro cactus that can reach heights of 45 feet. It’s the kind of environment where you half expect to see the ‘Magnificent Seven’ come riding over the horizon on horseback as you tee off. There are some great holes at Troon North, and none better than the Monument Course’s third, aptly named ‘The Monument.’ This 564-yard, par-5 is an intriguing hole with plenty of risk- reward options, that first requires you to dodge a giant boulder anchored in the middle of the fairway. Over the years Troon North has won a multitude of accolades and awards including Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 CoursesYou can Play in the US” and Conde NastTraveler’s “Top 100 Golf Resorts in North America and the Caribbean.” Make sure to add it to your bucket list of places to play in the USA .... go to www.troonnorthgolf.com.

In case you haven’t figured it out yet, Texas is the greatest state for golf in the country.Anditisn’tevenclose,according to Executive Director of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, Katie Manor. Ten of the 30 U.S. Ryder Cup Captains, 85 major winners, 897 LPGA/ PGA Tour winners, are all individuals from the Lone Star State, and every single one is a member of the prestigious Texas Golf Hall of Fame. And those numbers don’t include future members like Stacy Lewis, Jordan Spieth, or Scottie Scheffler. Did we mention 24 of the 164 of theWorld Golf Hall of Fame members (15%) are in theTexas Golf Hall of Fame? Our state has produced generations of incredible golf talent, and not just professional players. Six of the 67 PGA of America Golf Professionals of the Year are from Texas. 25 NCAA Division I Men’s Golf Team Titles have been won by Texas universities (including a record 16 by the University of Houston). And 13 U.S Amateur titles have been claimed by Texan men and women.When listed all together, the stats are truly staggering. Every two years theTexas Golf Hall of Fame recognizes up to five membership categories.They are Amateur Player, Professional Player, Golf Professional/ Teacher, Lifetime Achievement, and Texas Registry of Historic Golf Courses. There are stringent requirements to be considered a finalist, including a professional having won at least four times on the LPGA or PGA Tour. Just 150 individuals and 14 golf courses have been inducted into theTexas Golf Hall of Fame since its inception in 1978. The Class of 2022 (Ryan Palmer, Brad Elder, Barney Adams, Ronny Glanton, PGA, Gordon Johnson, PGA, and Houston Country Club) were inducted last October. Professional Player - Ryan Palmer Amateur - Brad Elder Lifetime Achievement - Barney Adams Golf Professional/Teacher - Gordon Johnson Golf Professional/Teacher - Ronny Glanton Texas Registry of Historic Golf Courses - Houston Country Club On October 17th, 2022 the Texas Golf Hall of Fame inducted its newest individuals and golf course into its storied membership in a day-long event calledThe Gathering of Eagles. Until Manor’s hiring in October 2021 (she is the first ever full-time employed staff member), that was the extent of what was done to celebrate the membership. During COVID, TheTexas Golf Hall of Fame Board of Directors conducted a feasibility study to determine the future of the organization.Texas golf, andTexas Golf Hall of Fame members, deserved so much more in recognition and awareness of achievements, and the Board moved quickly to bring on someone who could live and breathe the Hall every day. Since starting in her role, Manor has made sure the future of theTexas Golf Hall of Fame is bright. Starting with social media followers, which have grown from a little over 100 in December 2021 to almost 3,000 at the end of 2022, there are big plans in place to properly honor the past, celebrate the present, and create the future greats of Texas golf.The Hall is making moves to ensure its members, and Texas golf, is acknowledged on a grand and lasting scale. The Texas Golf Hall of Fame will unveil a new physical structure in the fall of 2023 at PGA Frisco on the Northern Texas PGA’s campus.The Frisco anchor site will be an addition to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame’s footprint in the state, joining theTexas Golf Walk of Fame at Brackenridge Park Golf Course. “The opportunity to have a prominent presence on the NorthernTexas PGA campus at PGA Frisco is an incredible addition to theTexas Golf Hall of Fame, and significantly helps us reach our goal to bring as much awareness as possible to the greatest golf hall of fame in the country,” said Manor. “It is the modern home of golf in America and Texas golf will be on display in all ways.” In addition, the Hall has a new partnership withVeritex Community Bank - the Official Bank of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame and Presenting Sponsor of the futureTexas Golf Hall of Fame anchor site at PGA Frisco. Veritex’s commitment to golf in Texas is unparalleled and felt at all levels. It sponsors 23 LPGA/PGA/ Korn Ferry/ChampionsTour players, includingTGHoF Member Ryan Palmer and 2022 Masters Champion Scottie Scheffler. It is also the Title Sponsor of both theVeritex Bank Championship Korn FerryTour event and the historicVeritex Bank Byron Nelson Junior Championship.“Golf has always been aligned with our brand, which is why this partnership made sense and we are known as the Golf Bank of Texas,” says Malcolm Holland, CEO & President of Veritex Community Bank. Finally, both the Walk of Fame in San Antonio and PGA Frisco location will incorporate QR codes which will lead visitors to a one-of-a-kind interactive virtual museum highlighting individual members with his/her own digital exhibit and collection. completed content: Scan the QR Code “The entire history of Texas golf will be in the palm of your hand through this incredible platform and resource.Texas greats looking back at you, telling you their stories and anecdotes. It is a gift that the Texas Golf Hall of Fame is giving back to the game, to our great state, and to anyone who visits our virtual exhibits from anywhere in the world,” Manor added. And so,Texas golf just keeps getting better – and bigger – just as we do with everything in this great state. Keep up with all the latest happenings with the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, including details about the unveiling of the PGA Frisco Anchor Site and Digital Museum, by following on social media: These exhibits will include high-level films about each member, as well as separate videos diving into specific details of the individual’s career and artifacts. In addition,acomprehensive library of Facebook: Texas Golf Hall of Fame artifacts, photos, memorabilia, trophies, LinkedIn:TexasGolfHallofFame and articles will be made available in a digital archive. Future special exhibits are also planned, to broaden the scope of stories captured and brought to life. Manor has even provided readers with a sneak preview of some of the For more information on how to support these initiatives through the Texas Golf Hall of Fame’s capital campaign, please contact Katie Manor, via phone or email: 214.294.7967 or katie@texasgolfhof.org.

Unleashing the True Essence of Golf in Texas In the world of golf, some courses start quietly and then explode into a magnificent crescendo, leaving players in awe. Think Augusta National, Pebble Beach, and the legendary Old Course at St. Andrews. These legendary courses set the standard for excellence. But for Texas Golf Insider readers seeking a closer-to-home golf experience that rivals these iconic courses, look no further than Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club in the heart of Texas. Designed by the renowned Tom Fazio and nestled in the charming town of Driftwood just south of Austin, this private gem is a testament to the genius of the Discovery Land Company. An Unforgettable Finishing Stretch While the course has only been open for over a year, the recent opening of the final nine holes in 2022 added an extraordinary finishing touch that truly sets Driftwood apart. President Casey Paulson believes these last holes have the potential to be truly remarkable: "I always thought the entire course would be really good, but I think the last holes have a chance to be very, very special." And the esteemed course architect himself, Tom Fazio, wholeheartedly agrees. With his years of experience, Fazio knows a thing or two about exceptional golf courses. He confidently declares, "The final four holes at Driftwood are poised to become some of the finest finishing holes in golf." High praise indeed. But it's not just the spectacular course that sets Driftwood apart. The club boasts state-of-the-art practice facilities, complete with an indoor teaching center. “People will expect it to be good because it’s Hill Country because Discovery Land Company is involved because Fazio is involved - all those expectations are high,” Fazio said. "When the top players come here, they may never leave the practice facility because it's the best they'll ever see." And once they step onto the course, they'll never want to leave. A Riveting Challenge: Holes 15 & 16 The par 72 course is routed through some huge mature hardwoods and native Texas brush which once belonged to the famed Salt Lick BBQ Empire, but what makes the closing stretch so enticing is the presence of very scenic or dangerous water. It clearly comes into play on several of the back nine holes which could drown or buoy any promising round. The par 5 15th hole is a challenging layout that can play 594 yards from the very back tees and forces you to plot your way strategically to reach the green in regulation. Water comes into play all along on the right side and is more dangerous as you get closer to the green. The par 4 16th hole takes you on a drive over a large lake right off the tee box and then has a Texas-size cascading stream all the way down the right edge of the fairway to snag any wayward approach shots. There is a large fire pit and chairs to the right of the green, on the other side of the water, to allow your friends and competitors to cheer or jeer any of your efforts. A Thrill from Front Nine to Back Nine On the par 3 17th, it measures 191 yards from the member tees and much of the distance is covered by lake, making your tee shot all or nothing if you’re looking for a par or birdie. The finishing hole, the par 4 18th, has another long drive with more bunkering and trees near the final green. “Our variety of tees, ranging from 5,004 to 7,720 yards, offers a challenge for the best tour players as well as easy-going playability for novice golfers. The front nine offers solid holes that require precision shot making, while the elevation of the back nine has some of the most dramatic stretches of golf holes in Austin that create challenging strategic options for players,” said Driftwood head professional Tim Phelps. But with all the back nine fireworks, that doesn’t mean the front nine at Driftwood is totally overlooked. After a pleasant opening through the trees on the first tee box, the best holes are the par 4 4th hole which asks players to hit a long tee ball to get into place for a challenging approach, along with giant trees and bunkering to a large and undulating green. The par 4 8th hole is a dogleg left, but a very fun risk-reward drivable challenge for many players. Hospitality FIt for Texas Of course, all that Texas Hill Country scenery and watery danger can make a person powerfully hungry and, of course, the signature Discovery Land comfort stations come into play in a Texas-sized way. "Driftwood has taken the traditional golf experience and elevated it to an all-encompassing thrill for the spirit and revival for the senses,” said Texas golf legend and Driftwood SeniorVice- President Brent Buckman.“Between the Golf House, Starter Silo, two Comfort Stations, known as Sunrise and Sunset, and a cheeky “JPH Bar” (Just Past Halfway) located just past halfway at Hole #10 green, golfers are never more than three holes from a place to grab refreshments served with Discovery’s signature level of exceptional hospitality.” In keeping with the, ‘Everything is Bigger in Texas,’ theme, not only does the comfort station offer snacks and cold drinks, but also a Beer Garden with rotating seasonal taps, live fire cooking, and other relaxing and refreshing items. Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club is more than just a golf course. It's an experience that exceeds all expectations. Located in the stunning Hill Country, backed by the esteemed Discovery Land Company, and designed by the legendary Tom Fazio, this golfing haven is everything Texas Golf Insider enthusiasts could dream of, and more. With the practice facility, short game park, golf house, and full 18 holes all now open at Driftwood, the symphony is nearly complete, with members and guests enjoying the sweet music of Texas’ next great golf experience. Prepare to be astonished.

Just north of Dallas, nestled alonga 23 miles of shoreline, you’ll find a uniquely tranquil getaway complemented by metropolitan luxuries. The Colony offers a variety of outdoor excursions, world-class restaurants and lively entertainment you won’t find anywhere else in Texas. This summer, hit the road and learn why The Colony is where you go to play! Swing through three award-winning golf courses, complete with scenic lake views and greens honoring the sport’s historic past. The Tribute Golf Links, listed as one of the top five courses in Texas by Golf Magazine, is an homage to the legendary courses of Scotland. Nearby Old American Golf Club features natural contours and native grasses as it evokes the “golden age”of American golf course architecture. In October the course hosts Texas’ longest running LPGA tournament event. Rounding out courses in The Colony is the 9-hole Stewart Peninsula Golf Course featuring double greens and challenging play along 65 acres of lake views. The extended warm season creates plenty of opportunity for recreation along Lewisville Lake. Enjoy the steady breeze off the lake while you traverse trails on a mountain bike, bird watch along acres of nature preserve or cast a line past the sandy shores for a moment of calm. The lake is easily accessible from one of The Colony’s two lake parks, Stewart Creek Park and Hidden Cove Park and Marina. The Colony is a growing hub for first-to-market restaurants and attractions, offering experiences not available anywhere else. Many restaurants within Grandscape, the city’s premier indoor-outdoor entertainment, shopping and dining destination, feature seasonal specialties crafted with regional produce for an exclusively local taste. Eat your way through dozens of culinary adventures, ranging from elevated Italian steaks to authentic Indian curry and more. Make plans for entertainment the whole family can enjoy, whether you’re competing for first place at Andretti’s, scoring points at Topgolf, taking in the sights from atop the Grandscape Wheel or stepping into a virtual world at Immersive Gamebox. For the 21 and up crowd, Puttery provides the perfect mix of craft cocktails and immersive modern mini golf with its Instagram worthy courses. The Colony is constantly bringing new attractions to the area. Visit Red Phone Booth, an exclusive speakeasy only available to those with the password, and keep an eye out for the latest golf experience designed by Tiger Woods, PopStroke, coming soon. Experience Texas-sized retail at NFM, the nation’s largest home furnishings store, and SCHEELS, the world’s largest all sports store. For something truly unique, shop within The Homestead and find expertly crafted goods including handmade jewelry, bath and body products, boutiques and made-to-order desserts. In the evenings, The Colony comes alive with a vivid live music and micro brewing scene. Kick back with nightly entertainment ranging from rock and country concerts at Truck Yard to touring national acts headlining the Lava Cantina stage. Each venue serves small-batch brews on tap and specialty cocktails featuring native ingredients. Whether you escape to the outdoors or discover unparalleled entertainment, The Colony is the ultimate year-round destination.

Survival and success attributed to hard work, the fostering of relationships and attention to detail A lot has changed about golf in Texas since 1998 and Texas Golf Insider magazine (and its earlier renditions) has been there all along to chronicle those changes.The much-awarded magazine you are now holding in your hands – or reading online – has been a constant in the Lone Star State’s golf landscape for a quarter of a century, and it’s never been better. Owner and publisher Mike Ratchman deserves the lion’s share of the credit for the continued success of Texas Golf Insider. Through the years Ratchman has adapted with the times and flourished by making his customers and supporters understand their importance. The people that have had their courses profiled and publicized byTexas Golf Insider over the past 25 years are quick to credit Ratchman’s work ethic, his stick- to-itiveness, his attention to detail and his never-wavering creed to always keep his word as both rare and welcome in the publishing business. Ratchman and his publication are sur- vivors in a world where the weak are cut from the flock. It says a lot thatTexas Golf Insider is Texas’ only statewide golf publication, with magazines placed in golf shops and clubhouses from Amarillo to South Padre Island, from Beaumont to El Paso, and out of state in golf travel destinations such as Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico. Adam Grosch, director of golf at Vaaler Creek Golf Club in Blanco, credits Ratchman for developing and nurturing a marketing plan that has helped his course’s success.“I’ve known Mike almost from the start ofVaaler Creek Golf Club back in 2007,” Grosch explained. “In the begin- ning, all of our marketing was focused on Rockin’ J Ranch land sales, but Mike put together a package for us to start a little advertising in his magazine. I got quite a few comments from new customers saying that they had seen us in the magazine when they picked it up at other courses, and actually a bunch that had picked it up at Hooters.” It wasn’t long before we got involved in the radio show and what has evolved into the podcast show. Over the years we have seen a lot of benefit with partnering with Mike Ratchman, the magazine, the online presence and the Golf After Hours Show.” Ratchman and his magazine have been awarded by the SouthernTexas PGA for their contribution to golf in southTexas. And just last year, Ratchman was asked to be on the prestigious voting panel to choose honorees for theTexas Golf Hall of Fame.“Mike has been a big supporter of golf for many years, saidThomas Hutton, the executive director of the SouthernTexas PGA. “The STPGA appreciates his sup- port in sharing our story of the hard work that our members do each day and all the initiatives that the STPGA is involved in to grow the game.”About the only thing more impressive thanTexas Golf Insider magazine is Ratchman’s enthusiasm and constant optimism, sometimes in the face of disasters like hurricanes and pandemics and obstacles such as recession, supply chain issues, the lack of paper and shortages in the work forces. “Mike is one of the few people I know who can match my intensity,” said Bo LeHew, the Golf Club of Texas’ General Manager an COO of Fortune Golf Management. “He’s good people. From the moment I met him I knew we would be friends.We love doing business with him because he cares and he does what he says he will do. “And his magazine gets results for us. There have been challenges for us all, but he’s always been there. That means a lot.” Without being too self-serving, we sat down with Ratchman as he was getting the Spring 2023 edition of this maga- zine ready for publication.We had a few questions for him about how the magazine started, how he’s kept it at the forefront of the attention of the state’s golfers and some of the secrets of his success. Oh, man that goes back 25 years. I was running a driving range in San Antonio and all I used to get was people making phone calls wanting to know which golf course in town to go play. It was a part-time job of mine – I only did that so I could hit free buckets of balls – and I loved it. It got to a point where I would tear out a sheet from the telephone book and put it down by the phone. I’d ask the caller where they were in town so I could tell them what would be the closest golf course that they could go play. Meanwhile, I told my buddy after we were hitting balls and having a couple of beersonenight,“youknow,IthinkIspend more damn time on the phone telling people where to go play golf. My buddy said somebody needs to come up with some sort of directory of some kind,” and that’s how it all started. I found an inves- tor who ran a real estate magazine in San Antonio and he knew someone that might be interested in investing in something like that.Within six months we were doing analysis of the market. (A guide for) San Antonio just couldn’t cut it by itself and one for the Hill country couldn’t either. But a magazine that would support Austin- San Antonio and the Hill Country made sense. So in 1998 we published our first magazine. The rest is history. I was there for pretty close to 15 years. It was called “The Golfer” at the very be- ginning, but then the Golfers Guide came in and bought up all the print contracts that we had withThe Golfer magazine. And those guys wined and dined us, flew us to Vegas, you know, and really gave us a deal that we couldn’t refuse. Man, they were in 37 different markets, they had a print company, and they took care of us really well.They had online services that we never had as a small company.And they did very, very well by us.And so we stuck with them for a long time. I was an inde- pendent so I wasn’t company owned. About 10 years in, my partner investor told me he wanted to sell his part of the magazine and gave me a price I couldn’t refuse. And so for a year after that I stayed with Golfers Guide magazines, and when that went away, I went ahead and decided to pick up the mantle asTexas Golf Insider magazine. All the relationships that I had had from the Golfers Guide magazine went over into theTexas Golf Insider.That was 10 years ago – I can hardly believe it’s 10 years. Now we’re the only statewide publication that’s left out there. It’s been a lot of fun, but it’s not an easy business. You have to work this to make it all happen, and it’s a lot of hard work.We’ve had a lot of people you know...all the writers areTexans, all the distributors are from Texas, our printer is from Texas. My wife Ava is our editor, my daughter is our office manager and my grand kids do distribution so this company isTexas born and raised. What we went through in 2008 was a test because the economy just went in the toilet. Fortunately, you know, we’re a very conservative company.We worked hard, we played hard and we saved hard, you know, so we were the ones that were left standing when it was over. Once everything settled I had several customers throw me a bone so I could keep my lights on. And we’ve had to endure a hurricane or two.That was a very rough time because not only did we lose advertisers in Houston, but we also lost all of our equipment over there.We lost all of our (magazine) racks.That was rough. Then in 2020 the pandemic hit and you would think that was going to take me to my knees, you know, that I’m going to be done.There’s no way I’m getting out of this one. But who would have thought that someone would say “this virus does not like the heat or sun, so go for a bike ride or walk. And if you’re going to walk you’re going to play golf.” And you know what happened? Everybody who used to play golf got back into it, then everybody who played golf played more because they’re working out of their home and now they could work their schedule around their tee times. And it still has not slowed down. How long that’s going to last I don’t know, but we’re all enjoying it right now. You know, so coming around to the 25th anniversary, sure we’ve been up and down but you know, I think a company that works with as much pas- sion for the game as we do is going to get through it.We were lucky enough to figure it out. It really does come down to when you say you’re going to do something, you do it and you do it to the best of your ability. If you do it really well, it travels pretty quickly in our industry. It really does.You know, I have had some great relationships over the last 25 years, and I’m still in contact with them all, whether they are an advertiser or not. People will call and say “hey, I’m at a new place and I need to get my information out.” It’s always good to hear from old friends. I also think our success has to be attributed to that fact that every place they go they see our magazine in some form, whetherit’ssittingatacounter,it’sina bathroom, or it’s on their way out the door. And let me tell you when there’s an empty rack, that’s a good thing.There’s a lot of people that call me and say, “we need more magazines,” and that’s a plus.That means people are picking it up. You’ve had to make decisions about continuing as a print publication in an age when most are going to a digital only format. How did you decide on that balance? I think the digital book does have a place in our market.There’s no doubt. I mean, because of some of the younger folks that are coming into the game, you know, have something right on the phone. Their phone is an extension to their hand now, so we have to be there.We have a more enhanced digital magazine that plays really well into the internet market. Our digital platforms are going to be more interactive than they ever have been before, with videos, commercials and recorded interviews. Readers will have links to all of our customers websites to purchase products and make tee times. That’s going to be launched right at around when the magazine comes out fortheSpringissue.AndIwillsaytothis day that I have checked with many of my customers in reference to if I just went completely digital and that didn’t fly. I think the combination compliments each other.There’s something psychological about having something in your hand to read. I’m that guy, and I think many of my customers and readers are too.It has really been nothing other than people picking up the magazine, and they wouldn’t do that if we were not giving them information about golf inTexas and about what’s going on in the golf industry. As long as people keep picking it up, and customers keep taking my phone call,you know I’m probably going to stick around for a while longer.

There’s never been a doubt about the quality and playability of the course at the Golf Club of Texas, and that has not changed. But over the past year the southwest San Antonio facility has enjoyed a surge in popularity because of its renewed attention to detail and a series of new programs designed for players to get the most bang for their buck. The Golf Club of Texas has always been considered the “friendliest course in Texas.” Now that its course and facility conditioning has been upgraded and its player-friendly attributes enhanced, it has become the “go-to” course for players in the booming section of the Alamo City off Highway 90. Under the direction of Bo LeHew, the Golf Club of Texas’ General Manager & COO of Fortune Golf Management, improvements are in place with many more underway. Those include the first thing players encounter when entering the property – the leveling and repaving of the road to the clubhouse and the parking lot, a move that immediately shows visitors that things have changed, and for the better. “And that’s not all,” LeHew explains. “We’ve also made a ton of improvements on the course itself, including new sand in the bunkers, new Zoysia sod to repair areas where it was needed and the little things that make a golfer’s round special, like cleaning up places on the edges of the course to esthetically enhance the experience." “We are literally leaving no stone unturned out there.” One thing that’s always set apart the Golf Club of Texas is the way a golfer is treated on the course and while using the facility’s cool amenities after the round. Because of that the facility had already earned a spot in our hearts and a place on the list of “must plays” in South Texas.“We all take great pride in what we have here,” said LeHew, whose enthusiasm and outgoing and friendly personality set the standard for his team. “Our staff is amazing and their efforts to provide our guests the best experience possible allow the Golf Club of Texas to stand out.” The facility has also received the confirmation of a new fleet of Yamaha golf carts, a prize in today’s world of supply chain challenges. The course has always been great The course at the Golf Club of Texas, located on a 1,900-acre site on the edge of the Hill Country, incorporates the rugged South Texas landscape at the edge of a lush, sprawling flood plain. It has always been a showcase and turns up the fun factor a notch or two with its Roy Bechtol-designed, links-style course that’s turfed throughout with different strains of Zoysia grass. The Golf Club of Texas was originally designed by Bechtol, the Austin-based golf course architect and master planner, as a Lee Trevino- signature track. It opened in 1999 and in 2014 was renovated, reworked and re-routed, with the nines switched. Four-holes wide in spots and following a meandering creek, the course provides a core-golfing experience at its best. Indigenous plants are juxtaposed against surprisingly wide fairways and mostly large and challenging greens. “You really have the feeling of isolation when you are on the course, and I know that’s what was wanted from the start,” LeHew said. “But that attribute is rare in this region where neighborhoods are sprouting up every day. I love the way our course plays and the sensation that you are constantly surrounded by golf and nature.”There’s the feeling at the Golf Club of Texas that golf was the most important aspect of the site.And while the course is challenging, it is rarely punitive, allowing the golfer to play to his or her strengths.There are places you can miss a shot or two, but the routing provides ways to get those shots back with good execution. One of the calling cards at the Golf Club of Texas is that it’s the only course in the United States whose putting surfaces are Zoysia, an experiment that was embraced nine years ago when it was renovated.The grass makes every lie in the fairway seem like it’s on a tee and it repels pitch marks on putting surfaces while allowing the greens to remain receptive to approach shots. Golfers will also love the facility’s expanded practice area, which includes a dual-sided driving range and a private teaching area.Two lighted practice putting greens have also been fashioned in the shadow of the updated clubhouse, one with some challenging slopes that acts as its own place for fun and competition. New food options and member perks The circular outside bar is adjacent to the clubhouse and driving range and is the perfect place to recap the day on the course, to settle up bets, and enjoy a few more minutes with friends, both those you knew before the round and those you’ve made during your stay.The Golf Club of Texas has added to its food offerings with a new half- pound hamburger on the menu made with fresh, never-frozen Angus beef. LeHew couldn’t stop raving about the burger, saying his customers are calling it “the best in San Antonio.” LeHew has also upped the ante for the club’s members, scheduling monthly tournaments in which participants earn points toward the end-of-year grand prize of a Royal Caribbean cruise for two. “We want to encourage participa- tion, of course, but we also feel our members deserve something big for being a part of our club and its success story,” LeHew said. The bottom line is that the Golf Club of Texas is, in itself, something big. And that’s why we keep coming back. Check out https://golfclubtexas.com.

The Golf Club of Texas There’s never been a doubt about the quality and playability of the course at the Golf Club of Texas, and that has not changed. But over the past year the southwest San Antonio facility has enjoyed a surge in popularity because of its renewed attention to detail and a series of new programs designed for players to get the most bang for their buck. The Golf Club of Texas has always been considered the “friendliest course in Texas.” Now that its course and facility conditioning has been upgraded and its player-friendly attributes enhanced, it has become the “go-to” course for players in the booming section of the Alamo City off Highway 90. Under the direction of Bo LeHew, the Golf Club of Texas’ General Manager & COO of Fortune Golf Management, improvements are in place with many more underway.Those include the first thing players encounter when entering the property – the leveling and repaving of the road to the clubhouse and the parking lot, a move that immediately shows visitors that things have changed, and for the better. “And that’s not all,” LeHew explains. “We’ve also made a ton of improvements on the course itself, including new sand in the bunkers, new Zoysia sod to repair areas where it was needed and the little things that make a golfer’s round special, like cleaning up places on the edges of the course to esthetically enhance the experience.” “We are literally leaving no stone unturned out there.”One thing that’s always set apart the Golf Club of Texas is the way a golfer is treated on the course and while using the facility’s cool amenities after the round. Because of that the facility had already earned a spot in our hearts and a place on the list of “must plays” in South Texas.“We all take great pride in what we have here,” said LeHew, whose enthusiasm and outgoing and friendly personality set the standard for his team. “Our staff is amazing and their efforts to provide our guests the best experience possible allow the Golf Club of Texas to stand out.” The facility has also received the confirmation of a new fleet of Yamaha golf carts, a prize in today’s world of supply chain challenges. The course at the Golf Club of Texas, located on a 1,900-acre site on the edge of the Hill Country, incorporates the rugged South Texas landscape at the edge of a lush, sprawling flood plain. It has always been a showcase and turns up the fun factor a notch or two with its Roy Bechtol-designed, links-style course that’s turfed throughout with different strains of Zoysia grass. The Golf Club of Texas was originally designed by Bechtol, the Austin-based golf course architect and master planner, as a Lee Trevino- signature track. It opened in 1999 and in 2014 was renovated, reworked and re-routed, with the nines switched. Four-holes wide in spots and following a meandering creek, the course provides a core- golfing experience at its best. Indigenous plants are juxtaposed against surprisingly wide fairways and mostly large and challenging greens. “You really have the feeling of isolation when you are on the course, and I know that’s what was wanted from the start,” LeHew said. “But that attribute is rare in this region where neighborhoods are sprouting up every day. I love the way our course plays and the sensation that you are constantly surrounded by golf and nature.” There’s the feeling at the Golf Club ofTexas that golf was the most important aspect of the site. And while the course is challenging, it is rarely punitive, allowing the golfer to play to his or her strengths.There are places you can miss a shot or two, but the routing provides ways to get those shots back with good execution. One of the calling cards at the Golf Club of Texas is that it’s the only course in the United States whose putting surfaces are Zoysia, an experiment that was embraced nine years ago when it was renovated. The grass makes every lie in the fairway seem like it’s on a tee and it repels pitch marks on putting surfaces while allowing the greens to remain receptive to approach shots. Golfers will also love the facility’s expanded practice area, which includes a dual-sided driving range and a private teaching area.Two lighted practice putting greens have also been fashioned in the shadow of the updated clubhouse, one with some challenging slopes that acts as its own place for fun and competition. The circular outside bar is adjacent to the clubhouse and driving range and is the perfect place to recap the day on the course, to settle up bets, and enjoy a few more minutes with friends, both those you knew before the round and those you’ve made during your stay. The Golf Club of Texas has added to its food offerings with a new half- pound hamburger on the menu made with fresh, never-frozen Angus beef. LeHew couldn’t stop raving about the burger, saying his customers are calling it “the best in San Antonio.” LeHew has also upped the ante for the club’s members, scheduling monthly tournaments in which participants earn points toward the end-of-year grand prize of a Royal Caribbean cruise for two. “We want to encourage participa- tion, of course, but we also feel our members deserve something big for being a part of our club and its success story,” LeHew said. The bottom line is that the Golf Club of Texas is, in itself, something big. And that’s why we keep coming back.

If you are aged 55 or more and want to settle down and settle into a community that has virtually every amenity in the book including a wonderful, unique and challenging golf course – Chambers Creek just north of Houston more than checks every box. Chambers Creek, set on 1,100 acres of rolling land billed as the “Houston Hill Country,” is located less than a mile off I-45 in Willis, near The Woodlands and 30 minutes from the northern confines of the Bayou City. We took a trip over there to look over the community and tee it up on the marvelous nine-hole golf course designed by PGA Tour Champions player and 1996 Open Championship winner Tom Lehman and came away uber-impressed. Lehman, who has nearly a dozen courses on his design resume, has fashioned a deceptively challenging links-style track that sports elevation changes aplenty, long-range views, rolling terrain and a routing that’s defined by oak and pine trees, creeks and wide Zoysia fairways. “Chambers Creek is truly a one-of-a-kind development that offers a setting that is extremely rare," Lehman said. “We've created a unique golf course that features some of the most amazing holes in all of golf. I believe any level of golfer will feel challenged, yet still have fun playing the game.” Lehman designed the course (called Lehman Park) to place the holes in a more natural way and they certainly blend into the land. There are just seven bunkers throughout the routing but they are positioned well and are not missed or needed to create difficulty. At first examination, Lehman Park looks easy, with few forced carries and generous openings to its huge putting surfaces. Playing it is a whole different story as four of the holes features blind tee shots and positioning on the lightning-fast greens is paramount. The course begins and ends with par 5s – the first hole’s green is played downhill and is reachable in two while the ninth is entirely uphill and made more difficult with into the prevailing wind. In between those holes are two target par 3s, a drivable par 4, two long and tough two-shotters and the eighth, who’s green is angled away from the tee box and is protected by a lake and a huge mound. In short, Lehman Park is a blast to play and will only get better with seasoning. It’s carded at 3,376 from the back set of four tees so players can bite off as much as they want to chew. A unique feature of the course is that each hole also has a dedicated, artificial turf tee so that it can be played as a par 3, with no hole longer that 150 yards. Chambers Creek ‘s other golf amenity is a cool 18-hole putting course of just over one acre that provides golfers the opportunity for shorter rounds, more informal play, a chance to play games, or place side-bets. A lifestyle inspired by health, wellness, longevity and fun There’s plenty more than golf offered at Chambers Creek, which bills itself as a “community with a golf course” rather than a golf course community. Chambers Creek is being developed by Caldwell Communities, which for more than three decades has delivered highly sought-after communities for people at every stage. Chambers Creek is one of the first communities in the U.S. specifically designed for electric vehicles including designated golf cart paths, specialized parking and homes equipped with garage charging. The community supports and encourages alternative means of transportation. Other amenities in Chambers Creek are a 300-boat-slip private marina with access to Lake Conroe via a private canal, more than 20 miles of hiking/biking trails, pickleball and tennis courts for racquet enthusiasts, a social and wellness center, Bocce Ball, horseshoes and cornhole areas, a resort-style pool, dog parks, open green spaces and a community garden. There’s also a two-acre vineyard of crimson cabernet grapes that serves as a charming setting for an alfresco dinner or a delightful backdrop for a special occasion. Five premier homebuilders offer single-story designs with a mix of classic and contemporary features equipped with the convenience of smart technology. Designs are priced from the $300,000s to more than $2 million, giving buyers a wide selection of floor plans that fit any lifestyle and budget.

FRISCO, Texas -- More than two dozen Texas Golf Hall of Fame inductees and hundreds of friends and supporters celebrated the grand opening of th e new Texas Golf Hall of Fame Anchor Site & Digital Museum Sunday at the Northern Texas PGA Headquarters. Some of the greatest names in Lone Star golf and many generous fans and Texas golf lovers from all over the state enjoyed a night of living Lone Star history which was hosted by former Texas resident and University of Texas golf star Brandel Chamblee and included a panel discussion from Dallas native Lee Trevino and transplanted Texans Bruce Devlin and David Graham. “This is my first time out here and it’s incredible, it really is. I just appreciate the sacrifice of those who came before me and those who are here now,” Trevino said. “It’s being part of a legacy,” added 42-time LPGA winner Fort Worth’s Sandra Haynie. “It’s what motivated me when I was playing and still does. “ The night included the ribbon cutting for the new digital museum which will ultimately catalog every member of the largest state golf of fame in the country for future generations to see and learn about. On hand for the ribbon cutting was North Texas anchor sponsor Veritex Bank CEO Malcom Holland, Fin Ewing, Ewing Auto Group, Insperity HR Services, The Spirit International Amateur Golf Championship & Whispering Pines Golf Club. “There is no other state that has the enduring golf history Texas does, that’s why these legends all came tonight,” said Reid Meyers, Chairman of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame Board of Directors “This is one step further so we will have a chance to preserve their stories for many generations to come. “Having an anchor site on this site at the Northern Texas PGA in Frisco means so much to the people here.” The Texas Golf Hall of Fame began in The Woodlands and already has an anchor site in San Antonio at the historic Brackenridge Park golf course where the inductee plaques are located and will be doing its bi-annual induction in Houston in 2024. “It’s really cool to have an anchor site here in North Texas where people can see the great players in Lone Star Golf past, present and future,” said 2020 inductee Ryan Palmer. Chamblee, who does national golf commentary for the Golf Channel, said there was no other state than where he grew up and learned to play the game which has as many great players as Texas.“Only the nation of England has more players in the World Golf Hall of Fame than Texas. It literally makes the hair stand up on my neck to be here and see the greats of the game on this new anchor site. “I can only think of Australia and Texas as the two places who have given more to the game with players, teachers and events. It’s a magical night of living golf history.” The mission of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame is to celebrate the rich and diverse history in the great State of Texas by honoring its golfers, its teachers and those who have contributed to the game in a wide variety of ways, recently appointed TGHOF executive director Alli Jarrett was honored for her work at the anchor ceremony along with outgoing executive director Katie Manor while longtime coordinator Mary Carriker was selected as the first winner of the namesake Texas Golf Hall of Fame Mary Carriker Volunteer of the Year award.

Texas PGA Tour Players Blast Sudden, Shocking Merger With LIV Golf Longtime North Texas PGA Tour pro Ryan Palmer was finishing up a relaxing family vacation to Costa Rica recently when he woke up to his cell phone ringing enough times to make him think either the country was under attack or someone in his family was in serious trouble. All the calls had the same question, what did Palmer, a longtime PGA Tour loyalist, think of the shocking PGA/LIV Golf merger after two years of fighting, legal maneuvering and casting asper-sions on each other? “I had four immediate thoughts,” Palmer said, three of them printable and one not so much. “I felt sadness, disappointment, anger and who gives a ...............”San Antonio’s Jimmy Walker was at home in the Alamo City when he got the news, but had no less a strong reaction. “I don’t think they (PGA Tour) could have handled it any worse. The merger with LIV golf was just horrible. ”While in his Dallas home recovering from back surgery, which will likely keep him out of action the rest of the year, Will Zalatoris had a similar reaction when he heard the news from social media. “It’s frustrating because the Tour told us to stay loyal and not make a move, and now we’re told we’re merging with who we were told not to merge with.” He confirmed the reports that he was offered $75 million from LIV golf, but said that was spread over six years and decided not to take it. Palmer said he was also offered millions (what he called “Pat Perez money”) to go to LIV, but firmly chose to remain on the PGA Tour, rejecting the presented opportunity as did Tom Hoge. “I heard the commissioner say that those who stayed and remained loyal would be rewarded. My question is, who is ‘they’? I think I’m part of ‘they’. They told me to stay loyal, now how do you reward those players?” Only Texas golf legend Lee Trevino preached patience from his home in Dallas. “People may not remember Jack (Nicklaus) and I led a revolt against the PGA of America in the 1960s to form the PGA Tour we know today. That turned out pretty good. Let’s just see what happens with this.”’ While Trevino took a wait-and-see attitude, Walker and others were hurt to discover the PGA Tour’s sudden shift in direction through social media, rather than being informed directly. “I think I’m disappointed more than anything else,” said Walker, who has six PGA Tour wins including a PGA Championship victory. “We’re supposed to be a player led tour, that’s what they tell us all the time, but then they do this.” I mean, you didn’t tell Tiger or Rory in advance,” said Palmer, “but why not let me know. I’ve been out here for 20 something years. In the long run it’s probably better for the game of golf for everybody to be together. Maybe I can play in some LIV tournaments, in off weeks, but the way they did it was terrible.” Palmer said golf’s new world order could affect Texas PGA Tour players in other ways. While LIV golfers could now play in regular PGA Tour events when they are given permission, golfers like Palmer, Walker and others could go the other direction. “If I’m off a week and there is a LIV golf tournament nearby that week, I’d be pretty foolish not to try and go and play.” Although Zalatoris made the best decision for himself, it’s natural for him to feel a sense of disappointment and frustration with the outcome.“My whole life I wanted to be a PGA Tour golfer, this is just not the way I thought it would turn out.”