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The Perfect Blend of Luxury Homes, Rolling Landscapes, and Award-Winning Golf Rockin J Ranch In the ever-changing world of business, real estate and homes have proven to be a valuable investment. Over the years, Rockin' J Ranch has solidified its position as a highly desirable private community, standing strong despite economic fluctuations. With its stunning Hill Country homes and homesites, lush surroundings, and renowned golf course, Rockin' J Ranch offers a unique blend of tranquility and luxury. Texas Golf Insider is excited to showcase this slice of heaven, where residents can experience the delicate Hill Country lifestyle five miles south of the town of Blanco while enjoying the comfort and convenience they desire. Join Texas Golf Insider as we explore this hidden Texas gem. A Community Steeped in History and Vision Rockin' J Ranch, spanning 1,064 acres set amongst rolling fields of flowers and stands of oak and cedar trees, was conceived by Colonel Lee Roper, a visionary with a deep appreciation for the Texas Hill Country. With over 35 years of experience in developing properties, Roper's commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land has attracted families from all over Texas and beyond. The integration of century-old homes and landmarks into the community adds to its charm. Located less than an hour north of San Antonio and just a half-hour further drive from Austin, the development stands apart from others in the area, surrounded by sprawling family ranches that offer a little something of everything and is made special by the serenity and isolation that’s becoming just a bit too scarce these days. Non-stop Growth Amidst Economic Challenges While rising interest rates have negatively impacted many communities in the region, Rockin' J Ranch continues to thrive. Ryan Brubaker, the sales manager, attests to the sustained interest in the community, with ongoing construction projects and recent lot sales. “There are about 80 homes under construction out here right now and we sold 30 more lots in the last couple of months,” said Brubaker. “The interest in this community and what Colonel Roper envisioned from the start has not waned and continues to grow. I literally sold three homesites this morning – people genuinely love and appreciate what we have here.” The beauty of the Hill Country and the allure of Rockin' J Ranch's amenities continue to captivate prospective homeowners. One of the earmarks of Roper’s communities – including Rockin’ J Ranch – is its use of a centralized water and sewer system rather than the well water and septic fields used in the majority of other Hill Country developments. That matters because water is a precious resource and so scarce in the region – even more so now than when Rockin’ J Ranch first came online. Rockin’ J Ranch has become a melting pot of residents from across Texas and from coast to coast. “They are coming because of the beauty of the Hill Country,” Brubaker said. “Everyone wants a little piece of the heaven we have here, and we try to help them.” Vaaler Creek Golf Club: The Jewel in the Crown Vaaler Creek Golf Club is as firmly established as the community around it, grown up and grown in and one of the most popular courses in the area thanks to word of mouth and a bushel of great reviews that continue to entice golfers to the property. Vaaler Creek GC is a place for great golf and a solid option that integrates challenge and fun in an isolated setting. It was voted the nation’s No. 19 Best New Course for 2010-11 by Golf Digest and has remained on the top of the region’s rankings because of its playability, its excellent conditioning, and the attention to detail by the facility’s staff. “Our rounds increased by 10-15 percent over the past year and that’s on top of the growth we enjoyed in the years before and then because of the pandemic,” said Adam Grosch, Vaaler Creek’s Director of Golf. “The course continues to improve and get better with age. It’s always fun hearing the comments of people who play Vaaler Creek for the first time – it’s always ‘why haven’t I played this place before?’” Opened as a nine-hole track in 2007, Vaaler Creek expanded to a full 18 two years later plus an addition of a driving range. The course was the first signature design by Michael Lowry, who fashioned a much-tougher-than-its-carded 6,874-yard, par-72 track among live oak and cactus. Lowry routed the layout along the rolling, scrub brush-filled prairies and worked in all sorts of cool features: ponds, sand hazards of sundry sizes, elevated tee shots, and wavy, tree-lined fairways. Both nines offer far-reaching views of the famed surrounding region and the generous homesite setbacks mean that the house near the course is mostly out of sight and unobtrusive, adding to the course’s isolated feel. Given its length, golfers might think they can overpower Vaaler Creek, but finding success here is not simple. The course has a rich variety of long and short holes, with shots involving strategically placed bunkers and occasionally requiring a carry over water. The course’s true last line of defense is its lightning-quick, mounded, and sectioned putting surfaces, which can make even the most aggressive players timid and prone to second-guessing. It’s hard to find a better three-hole finish than at Vaaler Creek. The 515-yard, par 5 16th races downhill past a pond along the right before ascending to a green guarded front left by a cavernous bunker. The green slopes back toward you from the fairway and, if the pin is at the right front, there’s a backstop that might redirect your shot toward the hole. The par-4 17th plays much shorter than its 425 yards as it moves off a slightly elevated tee. The approach is over a babbling stream to an undulating and elevated green lined laterally by trees. Though the first 17 holes provide their share of thrills and chills, nothing prepares you for the 405-yard, par 4 closer. The drive here is best played long and downhill along the left side, but too far to the starboard side brings a lake into play. The approach is all carry and downhill over the water hazard, finishing at a putting surface in the shadow of the golf shop. Vaaler Creek has become a real favorite for Hill Country golfers and continually draws players from the region’s bigger cities. Amenities that Embrace Hill Country Living Rockin' J Ranch offers more than just exceptional golfing. The community has expanded its off-course amenities to cater to every resident's needs and desires. From Stay & Play Offers at Vaaler Creek with stunning condos for rent overlooking the 10th tee to a sparkling pool, a nature park with trails, a pond for canoeing and fishing, and a pavilion for post-golf dining, Rockin' J Ranch strikes a perfect balance between the cherished Hill Country lifestyle and modern comforts. Rockin' J Ranch embodies the essence of Texas Hill Country living. Its rich history, commitment to preserving the land, and exceptional amenities create a haven for residents and Texas Golf Insider enthusiasts seeking serenity and luxury. Whether it's the allure of its real estate, the thrill of golfing at Vaaler Creek, or the array of off-course activities, Rockin' J Ranch feels like a true home. Experience the beauty and tranquility that this remarkable community has to offer.

Bayou Golf Course Step into a world where golfing dreams come alive, where the gentle whispers of the wind weave a melody that dances through lush fairways and contoured greens. Texas Golf Insider beckons you to an enchanting journey, unveiling the vibrant tapestry of the Lone Star State's golfing wonders. Embrace this edition's luminary gem, Bayou Golf Course, a mystical oasis nestled amongst the ethereal beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast. With unwavering allure, it captivates the hearts of golf enthusiasts with its distinctive blend of unparalleled challenge and affordability. Here, the very essence of the sport is reborn; an elegant fusion of skill and passion that ignites the soul. Traverse the undulating terrain as you glide from hole to hole, each stroke a symphony of precision and grace. Unearthing hidden wonders, Bayou Golf Course is a testament to the allure of the unknown, an unheralded treasure awaiting its deserving admirers. The Perfect Balance of Value and Challenge Bayou Golf Course, nestled in Galveston County just 14 miles from the Galveston city limits, is renowned for providing exceptional value for Texas golfers. With green fees under $40, golfers can enjoy a well-conditioned course featuring a mix of challenging holes, demanding greens complexes, and stunning views of the surrounding marshland. It's the perfect golfing destination for those seeking an affordable and memorable golf experience. “Our players have come to understand that we consider them like part of our family, and that is one of the things that makes a round at our course and the time spent here before and after the round so appealing,” said Mike Skiba, Bayou Golf Course’s head professional and director of golf. “We see some of our players two or three times a week – and that’s a good thing.” A Hybrid Links and Parkland Oasis Bayou Golf Course is a hybrid links/ parkland-style facility that was carved out of about 200 acres of marshland and originally designed by legendary Texas golf architect Joe Finger in 1974. It was restored and enhanced in 2014 by Houstonian Mike Nuzzo and is better now than ever, playing at 6,596 windswept yards from the back tees and to a par of 72. Bayou Golf Course is just 14 miles from the Galveston city limits and is located in Galveston County on the outskirts of Texas City. Moses Bayou skirts the property as it flows toward Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, with water coming into play on 12 of the holes. There are also 18 sand bunkers strategically placed throughout the routing to form a formidable combination with the course’s slightly elevated tees and greens. From the back tees, four of the par 4s are carded at over 400 yards and three of the par 5s play at more than 500 yards. Add in the wind, which is always blowing here, and those seven holes alone clearly indicate the need for prowess with the driver. After two relatively easy holes to start the round, the 414-yard par 4 third ups the ante aplenty, playing into the prevailing wind with water along the left on the approach and trees on the right near the primo landing area. The bayou also skirts behind the smallish and undulating putting surface at the back left. It’s one of the toughest pars on the Gulf Coast. The 414-yard par 4 sixth demands thought and course management. The tee shot must be short of the bayou that begins 225 yards off the tee, after which the approach requires another wind-affected long iron to a tiny green. The 481-yard par-5 tenth hole offers the golfer a risk/reward option. There is a lake in play off the tee and on the approach and out of bounds on the left, but birdie or better is within reach with two, or three, well-executed shots. Bayou Golf Club is renowned for its four-hole closing stretch. The 573-yard par 5 15th is the longest hole here and has a double dogleg. Next up is the deadly and long 191-yard par 3 16th, which always seems to need one more club than you think to reach the putting surface. The 17th, at 457 yards, is a dogleg left with a stout carry across the turn to the fairway and the longest par 4 on the course. Trees stand sentinel on the left side as well, which if taken on with a successful drive can shorten the approach, if not you’ll write down bogey or worse. Most of the Bayou Golf Course’s regular players consider a par here to be like a birdie, especially on those days when the wind comes in from the north. The round wraps up with a 393-yard par-4 that’s considered one of the best finishing holes in the Bay Area. There’s water along the left side and a deep bunker that guards the tournament hole placement at the back left. Unforgettable Environment & Future Upgrades Time does not stand still and neither do the demands placed on the management of a golf course. It’s a constant battle with Mother Nature and the wear and tear placed on a course by those who play it to keep conditions at their best and adapt to the occasional curveball thrown into the mix by the weather or other intangibles. This is another aspect in which Bayou Golf Course really shines. The course just completed a renovation of all its cart paths on the back-nine, with plans in the future to redo the front-nine paths, to improve drainage throughout (especially on the front-nine, which is the most affected by the bay’s tidal pools) and re-grass some areas on the edges of the course that have been damaged by the brackish water. There are also plans on the table to construct a new clubhouse for the course. All of those needs are on the to-do list put together by Skiba, who’s been the Bayou Golf Course’s head professional and director of golf for nearly six years. Skiba, with great help from Texas City’s city council and community leaders, has produced a steady increase in play at the Bayou GC through the years, with the largest uptick coming after golf’s overall resurgence and growth during and since the pandemic. “The city’s leaders understand that Bayou Golf Course is a community amenity, just like a park, but one that makes money to help pay for itself,” Skiba said. “We have had an increase in our rounds, and I think that comes from a combination of the efforts we employ to keep the course in the best shape possible and the friendly attitude we provide to our players. They know they are appreciated.” Bayou Golf Course is famously known as the place where Butch Harmon, one of the game’s most noted and famed instructors, got his first job in the golf business. “There are people who want to play this course just because Butch used to teach here,” Skiba said. “I’m no Butch Harmon, but if you want to improve your golf game, I can get you on the right track.” More Than Just Golf Bayou Golf Course is not just a golfer's paradise. The facility also offers a walking family pitch-and-putt course, perfect for both skilled golfers looking to sharpen their short game and beginners discovering the joys of golf. Additionally, their First Tee program provides a nurturing environment for young golfers, cultivating their love for the sport and shaping the future of golf in Texas. As a Texas golfer, you deserve the best. Trust Texas Golf Insider to keep you informed about extraordinary golf courses like Bayou Golf Course, where value, challenge, and natural beauty converge. Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking for a memorable round or a beginner exploring the game, Bayou Golf Course has something to offer. Stay tuned for more golf news and insider tips on Texas Golf Insider, your ultimate guide to everything golf in the Lone Star State.

Golf Channel and traditional TV networks crush it when it comes to televising PGA and LPG A TOUR events. We tune in on Sundays, probably on Saturdays, too, and occasionally sneak away for some early-round coverage. But critics note there’s a shortfall in non-competition golf video content. Despite a plethora of golf instruction and even equipment reviews in living color, where are shows highlighting the on- and off-course fun golf brings to golfers and non-golfers alike? That’s the void the new Golf Nation fills and, based on early reviews from Texas golfers, the streaming channel will be a fan favorite for a long time to come. Golf Nation sneak peaked in early December 2022 as the first and only producer of original golf-lifestyle shows with the ability for viewers to instantly purchase items via “buy bars” popping up while never leaving the screen. Folks, Netflix Meets Home Shopping Network” has come to golf. Each commercial-free episode is five to 30 minutes and specials may be longer. Shows are free on www.golfnation.com and will be available via mobile app, connected-smart TVs, Apple TV, Android, Fire TV and Roku in early 2023. Original series include “Ambush with David Feherty” and his hidden-camera hijinks; “Golf Unseen” that takes viewers to exotic courses with cultural experiences; “Tee Shots” where golfers drink, chat and swing with famous mixologist Bill Binder; “Watch. Buy. Play.” highlighting the planet’s hottest golf products; and “Don’t I Know You?” based on the 1980s-1990s TV hit “The Newlywed Game” with the first episode featuring Zach and Kim Johnson. If you think this content-to-commerce format won’t fly, think again. NBTV Channels and its NBTV Studios production arm also produce Spirits Network that sells countless products inside “Cocktail History,” “Tales from the Cask,” “Sipping Point” and “Science of Spirits” and other series of shows. And we thought the largest crossover audience to golf is professional sports. Not so much. More than 60% of Spirits Network viewers count golf as a passion. “Golf Nation is off to a solid start,” says Suzy Whaley, President of Golf Nation. “The sneak-peak shows are well received and brands selling their offerings on our channel are thrilled.”

Fields of Ranch East & West at PGA Frisco Texas has golf courses, lots and lots of golf courses, 800-plus in fact. Lots of great courses, private enclaves, plus top- rated resorts in Austin-San Antonio, but great public golf, especially in the North? Not so much.That’s what makes the soon to open two public championship courses in Frisco, 40 minutes north of downtown Dallas, such a golfing game changer. Located at the new, modern PGA of America headquarters on 660 acres of former North Texas farm land, hence the official name Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco, East and West Course. Owned and operated by Omni Hotels, which will have a massive 550- room resort here, the PGA will oversee golf operations on City of Frisco land. Every spare inch of this new Texas golfing utopia will be open to the public, from the largest putting green in the US of A (the Dance Floor), to the 10-hole Short Course (The Swing), to the resort and two courses, the East designed by Gil Hanse and the West, a Beau Welling Design. Heck, even the Northern Texas PGA will have an awesome synthetic putting and chipping complex here open to the public when not in use for NTPGA activities. With nearly a dozen eating, drink- ing and shopping establishments over- seen by a huge electronic TV screen, plus a three mile walk/bike/pet trail, you’ve got a golfing paradise no matter if you’re a thoroughly hooked hacker, a casual golfer or just somebody who wants in on the non-stop action. PGA Frisco Golf Complex is for you, Joe or Judy Q. Public. “We were always going to make everything public here, because that fits into the PGA of America’s mission of attract- ing golfers and non-golfers to the sport,” said PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh. Rendering of Hotel Entrance The East Course, which will host 26 major golf championships starting with the PGA Seniors Championship in May, two future PGA Championships and likely a Ryder Cup., includes a drivable par 4 on both the front (No. 7) and back nine (15). There is a nearly a 300-yard par 3, (No. 13 from the championship tees) along with the largest green on the course followed by the smallest, just to confuse golfers’ already confused minds. Then a bunkerless par 4 16th hole which seems simple, but is anything but! Then for the closing act, there is a dangerous 17th hole par 3 at 141 yards, the shortest on the course, plus a par 5 18th hole with a large stream and a hard dogleg right, plus a 10-foot earthen wall you’ll to hit over to reach the final green after crossing Panther Creek for the final time. “I think you could have some fire- works there,” Hanse said in a bit of an understatement in a fireside interview with co-designer Welling at the Omni Frisco Resort. The West Course by Welling ,who did Bluejack National with Tiger Woods outside Houston, did the more player friendly course with lots of wide open North Texas prairie spaces, elevated views and some truly funky greens. It’s a course to be ridden for sure, but one to take in the scenery with risk and reward challenge.Welling said the two courses are not identical sisters but in the same family. “It’s more like cousins, I’d say. I wanted to be able to bring my mother out here who may not be as good as I am, but still have a good time.” The public, which will get its first chance to play here in the spring of 2023, will make up more than 80% of the rounds on the Hanse East course. Hanse designed the course to be player friendly, but certainly not pain free if you don’t hit the correct shot from the correct tee. Hanse said one of the things he learned from designing the Olympic Golf Course in Brazil. The course can easily play more than 7,800 yards from the back ribbon, but PGA officials said the length will rarely, if ever, be used on a daily basis. Playing the correct set of tees will be critical to resort player enjoyment for the triple figure rates which will be charged to Omni Hotel guests and general public play.The opening hole on the East Course is a par 5 with a dogleg right, which PGA FriscoWest Course,#5 features some thick rough and the first appearance of native Panther Creek. A less than optimal shot could mean the first lost ball early despite the best effort of the caddies, which will allow for walking by guests.In fact, whenWoods opened his private Bluejack National course three hours south- east of here, he said he hoped most players could play his course with a single ball.If an amateur plays PGA Frisco East with single ball, they might be drug tested or sent straight up to the PGA Tour, Holes 10-12, all par 4, play in full view of the Huge Omni Resort, making them prime spots for tournament watch- ing, but players of all skill levels will have their full attention captured when they get to the par 3 13th hole. Panther Creek cuts across the fairway and curls up the left side, and it will be one of the most attractive features on the back side. The par 4 15th is another up- hill drivable par 4 which is surrounded by bunkers to embrace the risk-reward fac- tor. It’s public drama open to all in the new home of professional and amateur golf in Texas and all of America.

Visit GulfShores.com First off, let’s make this perfectly clear, Gulf Shores-Orange Beach – a community sandwiched between Pensacola, FL. and Mobile, AL. and not far from the Mississippi state line – offers a lot more than golf. But we will get to those other nice things later. Gulf Shores is a unique spot for golfers. Not only are its courses good, but they’re also not far from each other.The Gulf Coast and Orange BeachVacation Guide lists 15 courses in the area with three of the best especially close together. “We’ve got an island that is 32 miles long in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach,’ said Easton Colvin, public relations coordinator for Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Kiva Dunes Resort Tourism. “In it there’s 32 miles of pretty, white sand beaches and 20 miles of golf, if you add the yardages of the courses there together. All of our courses are public. You can schedule a tee time on your own at every one of them.’We also learned that full-service golf packages can be booked by a division of Troon, which owns three of the courses, called Coastal Alabama Golf. The three courses on the island part of Gulf Shores form a tasty trio. Kiva Dunes has earned the most accolades. It’s a links-style layout 200 yards off the beaches. Jerry Pate, working with good friend and developer Jim Edgemon, designed it. Pate was a hot commodity as a player before Kiva opened in 1995. He starred for the University of Alabama golf team, winning the U.S.Amateur in 1974. His pro career started with a bang too. In 1976, his rookie season on the PGATour, he won both the U.S. and Canadian Opens. Six years later he wonThe Players Championship. Those are pretty good titles to have on a playing resume, and Pate won five other times before shoulder and knee problems slowed his playing career down.With Kiva being one of his first designs, Pate converted to being a successful course designer, developer and businessman while settling in Pensacola. The Jerry Pate-designed Kiva Dunes is clearly the most decorated of Gulf Shores’ 15 area golf courses. In its early years Kiva hosted the second stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School three times and was named the No. 1 public course in Alabama in 2017. Located on the Fort Morgan peninsula, the facility has condominiums and beach houses to rent plus four swimming pools, two on-site restaurants and over a mile of waterfront. Gulf Shores Golf Club Kiva has gained recognition far beyond its home state, and it’s our choice as Gulf Shores’ best – but not by all that much. Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club is pretty darn good, too. This facility also opened in 1995, with Earl Stone designing its 27 holes on 800 acres. Peninsula has some things that Kiva Dunes doesn’t have. It has three nines – the Lakes, Cypress and Marsh – and the facility also has an 8,000 square foot fitness center, eight tennis courts and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Third of the island courses is Gulf Shores Golf Club, the oldest course at the destination. It was built by the father-son team of Jay and Carter Moorish in the early 1960s and they also handled a fullscale renovation there in 2005.The course was hit by Hurricane Sally in 2020 and is still somewhat in recovery mode but its sharp doglegs and numerous water hazards make for a challenging test. The biggest of the Gulf Shores facilities isn’t on the island, but is just 5 minutes up the road. Craft Farms has 45 holes with its Cotton Creek and Cypress courses and a nine-hole par-3 layout. Those two 18-holers, along with Lost Key in nearby Perdido Key, comprise the only Arnold Palmer designs in Alabama. (Lost Key is in Florida) The legendary Palmer was just starting to dabble in course design when he developed a close friendship with Robert Craft. They worked together for the 1987 opening of Cotton Creek and the 1993 debut of the Cypress course. Craft passed away in 2006. His son has been the mayor of Gulf Shores since 2008. Though some seasons are better than others weather-wise, there’s pride in what Gulf Shores has to offer golfers. “Gulf Shores in November is as good a place to play golf as you’ll find anywhere,’ said Dan Dorrough, now the head superintendent at Gulf Shores Golf Club after stints as an assistant at Kiva Dunes and Craft Farms.We made our first trip to Gulf Shores in 2012 and played the same four courses community looked a lot different this time, though. Now there’s more new, or at least expanded, attractions. For starters there’s Gulf Shores State Park with its 6,150 acres creating a haven for hikers, cyclists and Segway tours.The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail spans all of the park’s 28 miles and connects both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to the park. There’s also a nature center, over two miles of uninterrupted pristine beachfront and a lodge (actually a 350-room Hilton hotel that was rebuilt in 2018) featuring the Perch Restaurant. Our favorite dinner spot was Big Fish, a great place featuring seafood and a sushi bar but steak, pasta and sandwiches are available too. Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s, located on the IntracoastalWaterway, also has good food along with live music, a fun arcade, a three-story climbing ropes course and children’s activities.The owner is the sister of one of my all- time favorite singers, Jimmy Buffett. Sassy Bass CookoutTiki Bar has a somewhat hidden location between Kiva Dunes and Peninsula, but the food, served in hot iron skillets, was delicious in addition to having a unique presentation. And then there’s the sprawling Flora-BamaYacht Club with its world famous Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar. Craft Farms, Cotton Creek Course waterfront dining and a lot more.This is a legendary place near Orange Beach that appeals to all ages with its music, interesting decor and numerous bars. Though it was hit by numerous hurricanes over the years, Flora-Bama remains a must visit no matter the duration of your stop in the Gulf Shores-Orange Beach area. You don’t have to just play golf and eat in Gulf Shores, either. On rainy days you can still play miniature golf indoors – at the glow-in-the-dark Jurassic dinosaur adventure. It has a unique 5,000 square foot prehistoric setting and was a nice diversion for even the most serious golfers in our group. Most all of them however, preferred the SailWild Hearts’ relaxing two-hour sunset cruise in a 53-foot open-ocean catamaran. For more information, visit gulfshores.com.

Travel Louisiana Although the Cajun French version of “let the good times roll” was developed in the French Quarter of New Orleans... I felt compelled to borrow this term for your trip around Louisiana and the joie de vivre (joy of living) that truly explains our love of the game of golf. Louisiana is a “Sportsman’s Paradise” for fishing or hunting, but golfers have nothing to fear when it comes down to ample quality, challenging golf – all around the state. The Louisiana GolfTrails was developed to connect golfers with other experiences in Louisiana. Look... we all know that golf is a simple 4-hour game (that might be think- ing a little too optimistically, or to share some of my personal sarcasm), so what do you do with the balance of your time? The well-knownAudubon GolfTrail consists of 16 golf courses around the state and covers all 3 regions of Louisiana.This original “GolfTrail” has connected those 16 courses with 6 other opportunities for you to experience the culture around Louisiana. I would call the Louisiana GolfTrails “GOLF &”. “Golf and Fishing Trails” – Not just a hobby to pass the time – fishing is a way of life. From their lakes, rivers and marshes to the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana has the fisherman in you covered. Check out the Cypress Bend Golf Course in Many, LA. At this location you are literally minutes away from completing your challenging round on their mind-blowing golf course and dropping your line in the water with a guide that knows where the hot spots are on Toledo Bend Lake. “Golf and GamingTrails” – Known as “LasVegas South” – you find yourself chipping in on the 5th hole at Koasati Pines in Kinder, LA, and throwing the dice on tables at Coushatta Casino Resort. LOOK...I have never heard a golfer yell “7 come 11” on the first tee at any golf course, especially when we play for money. But I did hear one of our players yelling “give me an easy 4” on the first hole atTamahkaTrails Golf Course that is part of Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, LA. “Golf & CulinaryTrails” - Really... do we need to explain this one? A study not long ago found that Louisiana was the nation’s happiest state.Want to make me happy? Serve up some fresh Gulf seafood or boudin, or even andouille sausage gumbo... and although I may have just shot well above my normal score on the golf course, I am going to have a smile on my face as I bite into a fresh hot Beignet. Enough said! “Golf & Craft BeerTrails” – Imagine a great round of golf... a great Cajun dinner an d you are strolling through a small town and find a Craft Brewer. You settle in for a cold one and enjoy their unique flavor and vibe that sets them apart from the next. Maybe it’s the water, maybe it’s the other ingredients, or maybe it’s just the atmosphere that takes you away as you listen to the history of their special town. Those problems that you may have had on the golf course seem to melt away. Preparing you for the next round on the golf course. “Golf and Music” – Say what?The birthplace of jazz, zydeco, Cajun, and swamp pop, music is engrained in the soul of Louisiana. From the main stage at the lavish casinos right down to the Street Performers... Louisiana Music can be found everywhere. I’ll bet the next day on the golf course you will be hearing those tunes filtering through the trees. “Golf and Distillery” Now we are talking.The Big Easy? – No, those legal “Speakeasies” – where you nestle up to the bar talking about your heroic shots of the day and sipping on some “World Class” bourbon being distilled in the back room.Take a tour, see how it is done. Okay... so the golf that day just got a little easier to take, while preparing for the next day. The folks of the Louisiana GolfTrails made it easier for all of us.They have estab- lished 3-day itineraries that truly fit all of these “Golf &’s” that you have been reading about. Check them out at: LouisianaGolfTrails.com Laissez les bon temps rouler

BREAKING UP WITH GOLFNOW Every significant relationship is defined by its partners’ duties to each other. Each party has something to give to the other to keep it balanced. GolfNow is in a relationship with over 9,000 golf courses in the world. I was one of those golf courses. Being in a relationship with GolfNow is simple — you don’t pay them a dime, all they want in return is your golf course’s tee times. Starting off at one tee time going all the way up to four tee times, per day, in exchange for various services they offer. Between their third-party booking site, marketing and social media support, website hosting, point-of-sale software, and even an answering service, you would end up paying them nothing! Just a measly 16 rounds per day. Or 480 rounds per month. Or up to a staggering 5,840 rounds per year. For a golf course averaging 40,000 rounds a year, that’s 15% of your inventory. And with no up-front costs, many courses overlook this steep price because the perceived value of this relationship looks very fair… on paper. Unveiling Hidden Costs Behind GolfNow's promises of assistance and success, lies a hidden truth – they care only about their own bottom line. So, how have they managed to entrench themselves so firmly in the golf industry? They preach they are here to help golf course owners, but from my experience, they look at golf course operators and management companies as supremely naïve. GolfNow reps come bearing gifts as well as lunch for their quarterly visits to explain “how great they are performing for you”. What is left out is the massive revenue they are stripping from your golf course and the booking fees they are gouging your golfers for as well. On top of that, they have done an impressive job at making you believe you have no other option in the golf market. Taking Control and Seeking Better Options Well, that’s just not true and certainly not a relationship I wanted to be involved in. I wanted to separate myself from the competition. I wanted to break free from this toxic relationship. I didn’t want to wait for a quarterly statement from someone controlling my inventory to stop by with lunch and tell me how well I was doing. I wanted to look at how I was doing every month, week, or even every day by checking the analytics myself. I also wanted my golfers to benefit by getting amazing instant rewards, special promo codes to save money on future tee times, bad weather discounts, and most importantly, stop the booking fee gouging on my golfers. I wanted a better overall experience for my golfers. So, I had enough. I started thinking outside the box and doing some research, there had to be better options out there. I decided I wanted to take back my golf. I wanted to control my dynamic pricing and keep 100% of my revenue for every tee time I sold online. Sound too good to be true? Sound too difficult to accomplish? … Well, It’s not. Empowering Golfers and Enhancing the Experience I made the decision to break up with GolfNow, and it turned out to be the smartest move of my career. When I left GolfNow, I witnessed a remarkable transformation. The number of online rounds increased by 35% in just one month, and revenue skyrocketed by an astonishing 120%. The average revenue per golfer (APR) jumped to $51 – an $18 increase. The results were record-breaking, with more e-blasts opened, higher click-through rates, and a surge in new E-Club subscribers. So, how did I achieve all these incredible results? I formed a new partnership with GolfBack Solutions, a leader in the golf industry. With their cutting-edge technology and analytics, I now have the sharpest-looking website in my city and the most beneficial booking engine available. And my fears about losing the rounds booked through GolfNow vanished. Golfers are smart and savvy. If they want to play at my course, they'll find me through a simple search engine query. Sharing Best Practices and Moving Forward I share my story not to keep this information to myself, but because I believe in the power of community and supporting fellow golf course operators. GolfNow may tout itself as a helper in the industry, but it's really causing harm. It's time for Texas golfers to know there is a better path, a path that allows golf courses to take back control of their business and provide an exceptional experience for their golfers. If you want to know more about my journey and how I can help you through your own breakup, reach out to me directly at 210-885-1302. Together, let's take our golf back.

The Oasis San Miguel Guesthouse San Miguel de Allende, known for its vibrant arts scene and charm, is also becoming a sought-after destination for Texas Golf Insider readers looking for a unique and relaxing retreat. With its stunning landscapes, welcoming atmosphere, and world-class golf courses, this quaint town in central Mexico offers the perfect combination of sporting adventure and cultural immersion. One special place that stands out is The Oasis San Miguel Guesthouse, a hidden gem embraced by travelers seeking tranquility amidst the city's hustle and bustle. A Moroccan-Inspired Haven At The Oasis, a cozy bed and breakfast situated on the southwest edge of town, Susan O'Neal has created a haven of understated elegance. The guesthouse features five ensuite rooms adorned with Moroccan-style décor, a sparkling blue-tiled pool surrounded by swaying palms, and lush landscaping. Its intimate setting evokes a sense of home away from home, making it the perfect place to unwind and relax after a round of golf or any other exciting activities in the region. “People feel very much at home in San Miguel and especially at The Oasis,” ONeal said. “Visitors fall in love with the setting – our city is very safe and welcoming. Once you come here, you just don’t want to leave. I know I didn’t.” Golfers' Paradise with Exclusive Discounts For golf enthusiasts, The Oasis is ideally located just blocks away from the renowned Malanquin Golf Club and a short 15-minute drive from Las Ventanas Golf Club. Malanquin GC, designed by Steven Newgent, offers a picturesque 18-hole course carved through valleys and wooded hills, with narrow fairways and artificial lakes. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Allende Dam and Sierra de Guanajuato mountains during your rounds. The 18-hole course plays at 7,289 yards from its back set of tee sand to a par of 72 and has Bent grass putting surfaces. The front nine starts the round in a relatively benign fashion via wide fairways divided by trees and some gentle hills. Things get a lot tougher on the back, as the fairways narrow and there’s more water and sand to avoid. Las Ventanas, a Nick Faldo/Schmidt-Curley-designed course, is regarded as the area's premier golfing destination. With its challenging layout and undulating terrain, this course promises an unforgettable golfing experience. The course plays to a par of 70 and has tee boxes and fairways turfed with Kentucky Bluegrass and Bent grass greens. The fairways are generous and fairly easy to hit but its putting surfaces are the real test. At The Oasis, guests can take advantage of a special stay-and-play package. Golfers receive a significant 20% discount on rounds at Malanquin GC. Additionally, groups who book all five suites at the same time get a "pay-for-four, get-the-fifth-free" offer, allowing friends and fellow golfers to enjoy the golfing adventure together. San Miguel de Allende - More Than Just Golf Beyond golf, San Miguel de Allende offers a plethora of attractions and experiences. Nestled in a verdant valley with a near-year-round temperate climate, this city captivates visitors with its charming cobblestone streets and rich cultural heritage. Often referred to as "the Best Small City in the World," San Miguel de Allende captures the hearts of both locals and tourists alike. With its low cost of living and captivating beauty, it's no wonder that many visitors end up buying property here. Convenient Access for Texans San Miguel de Allende is easily accessible for Texas golfers looking for a memorable escape. Direct flights from major cities such as Houston and Dallas land in nearby airports in Queretaro or Leon, which offer convenient shuttle services to the city. Located about 180 miles north of Mexico City, San Miguel's remote location adds to its allure, drawing in visitors seeking a peaceful and authentic experience. For Texas golfers seeking a unique and captivating golfing getaway, San Miguel de Allende presents an ideal destination. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, trust Texas Golf Insider to bring you the latest news, exclusive offers, and hidden gems like The Oasis San Miguel Guesthouse, where understated elegance merges with the warmth of Mexican hospitality, providing a haven of relaxation after a day on the fairways. Embrace the charm of San Miguel de Allende, explore its rich culture, and indulge in world-class golfing experiences. Book your stay at The Oasis and embark on the golf adventure of a lifetime.

Team STPGA takes home the Cup for the Fifth Year in a Row The SouthernTexas PGA team was victorious September 18th over the NorthernTexas PGA team at the11th Annual Texas Junior Cup.Matches presented byTCG Advisors by an overall point total of 18 to 6.Team STPGA led the matches by 5 points following the first day of competition and early on into day two of singles matches,Team STPGA secured the cup after winning 9 singles matches. Key victories forTeam STPGA on day one came from Aleah Shields-Rodipe and Dylan Knox during the 4-Ball Matches, who won their match 3&2 against Adrielle Miller and Lincoln Rubis from Team NTPGA. In the afternoon Scramble matches, five of the matches went down to the wire, each going to the final hole. Team STPGA won 4 out of these 5 matches, taking a strong lead of 8.5-3.5 after day one. “It really was all about the players this weekend.They did a fantastic job on the golf course.Their character and integrity was unparalleled,” said STPGA Captain Chris Westerdahl, PGA. “It was an honor to be their coach and to see them win.” Team STPGA secured the cup during day two of theTexas Junior Cup Matches after the first four groups won their singles matches, putting Team STPGA at 12.5 points, enough points to win the overall matches.Team STPGA proceeded to win five more matches and tie one, to finish the day at 9.5Team STPGA and 2.5Team NTPGA. The Texas Junior Cup Matches is an annual competition between the SouthernTexas PGA and the NorthernTexas PGA Sections. The Ryder Cup-style format features teams represented by 12 junior golfers under the age of 12 who earned their exemptions into this event through various tournaments in each Section.The teams competed in Four-Ball and Scramble Matches day one, and Singles Matches the final day. Chris Westerdahl, PGA Director of Instruction at Sterling Country Club served asTeam STPGA’s captain for the first time, and Vince Bove, PGA Program Lead - Drive, Chip and Putt served asTeam NTPGA’s captain for the fourth year. This year marks the 11th anniversary of the Texas Junior Cup Matches with the inaugural matches taking place in 2012 at Northwood Club in Dallas,Texas.After this year’s event, both teams now have a record of 5-5-1. The 2022 matches were contested at Sand Hill Farm Golf Course, a unique 9-hole private course created by the Tucker family, founders of Mustang Cat, and designed by former professional golfer, Peter Jacobsen.

Nine hole golf courses have been a backbone of the game and are enjoying a resurgence With time at a premium in the mod- ern world and the game of golf continuing to grow, we continue to see a renewed interest in the non-traditional round played on courses that are less than 18 holes. New facilities are opening across the country and throughout the state of Texas. The bottom line is that nine-hole courses have been a big part of the golf world since the game was invented. It took until 1974 for there to be more 18- hole courses in America than nine-hole facilities. Many of the nation’s premier golf clubs – with names likeThe Country Club in Boston, Merion in Philadelphia, and East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta – were founded with just nine golf holes originally in play. That list includes a number of the most ballyhooed courses inTexas, including the eponymous country clubs in the state’s four largest metropolitan areas. Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin all had nine-hole courses first before expanding to 18 holes.The National Golf Foundation lists 167 nine-hole, regulation-length golf courses in the Lone Star State. Sometimes, playing nine holes is enough golf for one day. If you have a hankering to double that amount, well you can play the course twice, often for the same price or just a few dollars more. The Texas Golf Insider has whittled down the state’s extensive list of nine-hole courses to a dozen of the best, with a little variety in the location of the courses to make sure you can find one near you. Dallas-Fort Worth area Timberlinks Country Club (Denton) This par 35, 3,043-yard course has it all: unique and interesting holes, very good conditions, reasonable rates, and great putting surfaces.The layout, designed by Lyndy Lindsey, is fair but challenging and will test course management and shot-making skills with its tight fairways, doglegs, dramatic elevation changes, several ponds and creeks, sand and grass bunkers, rolling fairways, risk/reward opportunities, and well- protected greens. Starr Hollow Golf Club (Tolar) Starr Hollow GC is an exclusive, uber-private golf course located on a 3,000-acre working ranch southwest of FortWorth.The course was designed by Joe Finger and founded and owned by Marvin Leonard in 1967, who also built Colonial Country Club and Shady Oaks. Starr Hollow is serene, scenic, loaded with wildlife, and home to a splendid variey of golf holes all kept in flawless condition. Many golf aficionados refer to the club as “Little Augusta.” Stewart Peninsula Golf Course (Lewisville) Designed by Tripp Davis, this fun and very demanding course was Inspired by both Scotland’s classic links architecture and California’s Monterey Peninsula coastal courses.The course has views of Lake Lewisville from almost every hole, with forced carries, downhill shots, doglegs, water, bunkers, tough approach shots and more demanding your best throughout.Two sets of tee boxes and two pins on each green make each nine a little different. Sand Hills Golf & Country Club opened in 1962 and features 3,045 yards of golf from the back tees for a par of 36, all with pristine Zoysia fairways. Three holes stand out on layout – the 470-yard fourth, a reachable-in-two par 5; the 270-yard, drivable par 4 sixth, and the 220-yard par 3 eighth, the most difficult hole on the course.Two sets of tees allow for an 18-hole round. On the weekends, the course is open only to members in the middle of the day. Central Texas Blue Lake Golf Club is set on the south shore of Lake LBJ on a portion of the former Wennmohs Ranch. Finger designed the 2,376- yard, par 32 layout without a sand bunker and with a routing that includes five par 3s, three par 4s and one par 5.The first course record (which might still be the record, according to club management) is 55 for two turns around track as set in 1964 by 1959 Masters champion Jackie Burke.The course features rolling terrain – level lies are a premium – Bermuda greens, doglegs, lots of trees and views of the lake from several tees and fairways. Adjacent toWillie’s re- cording studio and condos, it’s scenic and quiet, and there are few rules – sixsomes, beer, country music, and tee-shirts are common. A fun track to play and a relax- ing and refreshing divergence from the formal country club scene.The pro shop features all kinds of Nelson golf para- phernalia. East Texas Marshall Lakeside Country Club (Marshall) Lakeside is the oldest course in Mar- shall and one of the oldest in the state, dating back to 1923 when a routing by Gus Carter debuted. This traditional course plays at 3,131 yards and features tight, tree-lined fairways, tiny, raised and swerving greens, and a good amount of water. Celebrities such as Mickey Mantle,Y.A. Tittle, and Roy Clark have graced the fairways here.The course was renovated in the mid- 1950s, with Dallas-based architect Lee Singletary doing some work on the course over the years. West Texas Concho Springs Golf Course (Eden) Designed by Williams, Gill & Associ- ates, this 6,000-plus yard course tests even the best of golfers. Hardin Creek winds its way along and has a say in play on eight of the holes. Elevated tees on three holes add to the challenge, and the course’sTifEagle Bermuda putting surfaces sport an average square footage of 5,500 and are considered by some as the best greens in the region. Though hunting is not allowed, one should not be surprised to see deer, turkey or other wildlife roaming the course. South Texas Palmilla Beach GC, Port Aransas Palmilla Beach is a fun, fresh, fast play and Texas’ only “true links” course, with three holes right on the water. Originally designed by Arnold Palmer, Palmilla is now a 12-hole facility, including nine holes of regulation play plusThe Loop, a three-hole, family-friendly short course. The routing includes coastal sand dunes, open parkland and Paspalum turf that allows balls to “run” much further.The course is an amenity of the posh Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Community, but ev- eryone is welcome.There is no member- ship required nor is there a dress code.Beeville Country Club, Beeville Country Club features a private 3,218-yard course with plush Bermuda grass from tee to green, dozens of Coastal Live Oaks, narrow, tree-lined fairways and small putting surfaces. No need to bring your sand wedge as there are no bunkers, and water also protects the front of the greens on holes 5, 7, and 8. Opened in 1944, the course has been voted among the top dozen nine-hole facilities in Texas and is fun to play from start to finish. Houston area Conroe Country Club, Conroe Conroe CC is a traditional, solid course with tree-lined fairways and tiny greens. Majestic oaks add character to the facility, which originally opened as the San Jacinto Country Club to provide recreation for residents in the oil business. A private facility designed by John Bredemus and opened in 1931, Conroe CC plays at 3,176 yards. It gained fame for its annual invitational golf tournament, which drew the likes of future PGA Tour players Miller Barber, Homero Blancas, Rocky Thompson and Dave Marr over the years.The course was renovated in 2010 with help of architect Jeff Blume but retains its Golden Age flavor. Big Easy Ranch, Columbus Set on land where the Texas Hill Country makes way for the Coastal Plain, the splendid nine-hole Chet Williams- designed course at Big Easy Ranch features all par 3s ranging from 65 to 251 (!) yards.With dramatic elevation changes and beautiful waterfalls, this isn’t your average par 3 course as whitetail deer and exotics freely roam the prop- erty, creating the perfect backdrop for a unique golf experience. Completing the golf amenities are a driving range, putting green, a short-game practice area and The Golf Academy. Big Easy Ranch has become widely recognized and lauded for its world-class hunting, wing shooting, state-of-the-art sporting clay course and trophy bass fishing as well as its golf, set- ting itself apart from other hunting and sporting clubs.

Scott Schreiner Golf Course Scott Schreiner Golf Course is an 18-hole course that is nestled among the rolling hills in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Redesigned by renowned golf course architect Joe Finger in 1999, it is one of the best kept secrets of the southwest. The layout features mounded greens in a variety of sizes and shapes.The fairways offer generous landing areas, yet are tight enough to present a comfortable challenge. The signature hole is number 17, a 535-yard par-5.Water comes into play on the second shot, then again on the approach to the green, which is surrounded by water on three sides.A waterfall to the left of the green adds a pleas- ing aesthetic. Set against the beautiful hills and rustic Texas landscape, this course is fun for all. The course is located in Kerrville,Texas making it an easy drive from San Antonio or Austin. A putting green, driving range, chipping greens with sand bunker, com- plete pro shop, and available golf lessons are some of the amenities found at the course. Kerrville boasts over 900 acres of public spaces to paddle,bike and play in.Enjoy eclectic restaurants,local music and local breweries and wine during your stay.

Steve Jurgensen Takes Home the Trophy at the PGA Professional Championship Jurgensen, First Time Contestant, Claims 2022 Southern Texas PGA Professional Championship Texas Golf Insider, the leading online golf magazine covering the golf industry in Texas, is thrilled to bring you the exhilarating story of Steve Jurgensen's remarkable victory at the 54th Southern Texas PGA Professional Championship. As your go-to source for news, reviews, tips, interviews, and more, Texas Golf Insider takes pride in delivering the latest updates and captivating stories from the world of golf in Texas. Join us as we dive into the gripping account of Steve's first-time participation in the Championship and his awe-inspiring triumph. Steve Jurgensen, PGA Teaching Professional at Wildcat Golf Club, claimed the title at the 54th Southern Texas PGA Professional Championship. Not only was this his first time winning the event, but also his first time participating in the Championship. With his victory, Steve will take home a check of $11,000. “I’m blessed to be able to play golf. I’m 60 years old and still enjoy playing,” said Steve. “I never looked at the leaderboard all day. I thought there would be someone past where I was. I was just trying to make birdies as often as I could in that final round.” Heading into his final round, Steve sat tied for 8th at even-par 72. The 60-year-old shot up the leaderboard with 5 birdies, tying leader Ben Kern on the back nine. With a birdie on number 17, Steve took the lead at a tournament total of (-3) 141 to win the Championship. Along with Steve, six other PGA Professionals earned exemptions into the 2023 PGA Professional Championship at today’s tournament. Ben Kern, PGA Director of Golf at Georgetown Country Club; JJ Wood, PGA Director of Instruction at Golf Performance Group; Ben Willman, PGA Teaching Professional at Axis Golf Academy; Jesse Droemer, PGA Assistant Professional at Lakeside Country Club; Ryan Hodge, PGA Director of Golf at Twin Creeks Country Club; and David von Hoffmann, PGA Director of Golf at Spanish Oaks Golf Club, will head to the PGA Professional Championship presented by Cadillac, Club Car, and Rolex at Twin Warriors and Santa Ana Pueblo Golf Clubs in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico on April 30 - May 4, 2023. Also joining these Professionals will be Jared Jones, PGA Director of Instruction at River Oaks Country Club, who is already exempt into the event by finishing in the top-20 of the 2022 playing of the PGA Professional Championship. The Southern Texas PGA Professional Championship is a special victory for our players each year, honoring the memory of 6-time champion Tommy Aycock, who won the Section Championship title in four different decades. Presented by Cadillac, Club Car, and Rolex; supported by Titleist, FootJoy, Callaway, TaylorMade, Nike, Golf Channel, and the PGA TOUR; and supported locally by Limerick Lane Cellars, the 54th STPGA Professional Championship was contested over 36-holes at TPC San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas. This event is the final tournament of the year where players earn points toward the Rolex Player of the Year list, as well as the 2022 Texas Joe Black Cup Matches and Levy Cup Matches teams. Players for both teams will be announced next week by the STPGA as the STPGA looks to win both Cup Matches later this fall against the Northern Texas PGA. Enjoyed this story? Eager to hear more? Stay connected with Texas Golf Insider as we continue to provide you with exclusive coverage and insights into the game’s biggest upcoming events. Don't miss out on the excitement as we continue to celebrate the passion, skill, and success of golf in the Lone Star State!