By Jason Bruno

Photo by Tracey Hanse

It's widely known that there are more golf courses in the Sunshine State than

anywhere else in America, nearly 1300 in total. Quantity certainly can't be

mistaken for quality, but there are standouts in the land of links abundance.

Five years ago, The Mosaic Company created a next level golf experience when

they brought us Streamsong Red & Blue, raising the bar for what qualifies as

a WOW golf destination for the east coast of the United States (and especially

in Florida). In late September, Streamsong took it up another peg with the grand

opening of their Gil Hanse designed Black Course.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

The Bone Valley Tavern and clubhouse at Streamsong Black designed by

Tampa based architect Albert Alfonso fits perfectly into the vast horizontal

landscape of the Black Course.

The opening of Hanse and Jim Wagner's Black course now puts Streamsong in

the rarified position as the only golf destination on earth that features a Coore/

Crenshaw, Tom Doak and a Gil Hanse layout all at one location. In our initial Blog

post just a few weeks ago we described the Grand Opening experience at the

resort's third offering, and in this edition we highlight many of the design

features by Hanse and his team - easily the most sought after firm in golf

course architecture today.

Rich Mack the executive VP of the Mosaic Company (who is also the visionary

and heartbeat behind Streamsong Resort), was eager when opening day finally

arrived: "The anticipation and buzz for this course has been remarkable. From

this expansive sandy site, Gil and his team have uncovered a dramatic course

that fits its bold landscape and flows as if it has been here for years. We are

ready to introduce Streamsong Black to the public and elevate our golf experience

with three must play courses that will rival the best golf venues in the world."

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

The par 73 Black Course plays 6759 yard from the black tees (which are one up

from the tips that play a mighty 7331 yards). After starting you out with a benign

par 5 on the first, the gorgeous 326 yard second is the first visual adrenaline rush

that grabs hold and announces itself as a true beauty. Just like many Gil Hanse

creations, this hole requires you to think and have a blast doing so. Here at the

second, he favors finesse over power. Challenging the left side here leaves a much

better angle to this elevated green that is angled left to right. Notice the classic

weathervane in the background that serves as a landmark on this big and bold

routing.

Although there is no shoreline within 70 miles, the firm and fast waves of Celebration

Bermuda turf and endless ripples of sand that make up the 300 acres of the Black

will have you favoring the ground game and contemplating the bounce - perhaps

more than you've ever experienced along the east coast of the United States. With

ample space off the box, you will hit more fairways and greens than usual, but the

task just begins once the flatstick is in hand.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

Here on the 601 yard fourth, you get a good idea of just how boundless the

mini-verde putting surfaces and surrounds on the Black are. The height of cut

extends well beyond what is technically considered "the green". For example,

what you see above is probably 60-70% of actual green, but because the 11

acres of greens and surrounds are cut at the same height, for all intents and

purposes you're dealing with colossal sized greens and an experience not

commonly found in the U.S .

Hanse gives you an option off tee here at the fourth, chose the safer right fairway

and you face a tough uphill lay up, or chose the riskier left fairway and you have a

better view of the green. This may be a hole that gets tweaked down the road, it's

the one that can easily be a round wrecker, but doesn't need to be. In our opinion,

the hole is a bit too severe for the masses, moving the tees up might go a long way

towards solving the issue here. In all fairness to Hanse, he did say that there would

likely be a few modifications after reviewing early play.

Photo by Nile Young

The 177 yard fifth is another visual bolt of adrenaline, playing uphill it tempts

you to bail left (from what playing partner and noted course design expert

Bradley Klein referred to as a Royal St.George style Hill bunker), but resist

the urge. Short left is a decent chance for recovery, but as I found out, long

left is certain doom. This is the most severely undulated green on the course,

and that's saying plenty.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

Another look at the fifth, this perspective gives the view looking back towards

the tee.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

The deep greenside funnel bunker and green surrounds on the short 321 yard sixth

makes for an exciting and interesting scoring chance on this brilliant design.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

The 158 yard par 3-seventh features a reverse redan design and an Aussie

sand belt look. The par 3's throughout the resort are memorable, this was

my selection as the best one shotter on the Black.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

The 408 yard eighth plays longer than the yardage, Keep your tee shot left

center to avoid this right fairway bunker and the natural areas that surround

it.

Among the 11 acres of super tightly mowed green complexes, is this two-

tiered punchbowl on the 408 yard ninth. A fantastic uber sized homage to

classic designer Seth Raynor. Not many greens anywhere are as impressive

or as fun to play as this one.

Photo by Larry Lembrecht

The 524 yard par 5 - tenth features this immense crumpled stream of sand and

turf remnants that pinches the layup landing area, demanding you to make a

choice whether to go for the green or stay well short of this ginormous hazard

that measures nearly 100 yards in length. This might be the most underrated

hole on the Black, but easily was one our favorites.

Photo by Larry Lambrecht

This portion of fractured sandy terrain between the 531 yard par 5 -twelfth

and the 463 yard par 4 -sixteenth fairway has been dubbed "The Glove" based

on its appearance when flying over the property.

By Larry Lambrecht

The par 4 -13th can play as a fairly straightaway hole or as dogleg right,

depending on which of the two greens are in play. It plays 409 yards to

the left green/421 yards to the right green.

By Larry Lambrecht

The 15th is the shortest hole on the Black, playing a mere 133 yards from the

tips. Pick the right club, although its broad from the left edge to the right, it's

only 24 paces deep - neither short or long provides an easy recovery.

By Larry Lambrecht

The 189 yard -17th plays downhill with a sideboard on the left that will feed

everything towards the center of the green. Doesn't appear that Hanse and

company had to move much earth to create this natural beauty.

Photo by Larry Lembrecht

In our blog feature regarding the opening day experience, I discussed the drama

that this 530 yard finale can and will bring to your match. There's very few forced

carries on the Black, and with a bail out area left, this technically isn't one either -

but it's definitely the one white knuckle finisher at the resort if you take it on.

The Roundabout, located between the driving range and the 9th tee features

several green complexes and practice holes for those who just cant get enough.

Created to give players multiple ways to test their short game, the Roundabout

also includes an alternative ninth green, giving players the option of a shorter

nine-hole loop back to the clubhouse.

Ranging from 5293 yards to 7331 yards, there is a proper teeing ground for all.

The serene environment just begs you to walk the golf landscape, gaining the

full experience of the Black.

The two acre "Gauntlet" putting course that sits right outside the clubhouse,

is the perfect pre or post round gathering spot.

There may not be enough superlatives to describe the journey around the

Black, and all that makes up the experience on the grounds of its stand alone

parcel that's just a 2 minute shuttle ride from the main lodge. Gil Hanse and

his design team just simply nailed it. It's Gamble Sands caliber fun on the

scale of Sand Valley's Mammoth Dunes, with a Streamsong signature style.

Rarely does the third production ever get mentioned as the finest in a trilogy,

but the Black just might be that. By our assertion - an instant classic.

For more info on Streamsong Resort: http://www.streamsongresort.com/

Heath: shrubland habitat found mainly on free-draining infertile,

acidic soils and is characterised by open, low-growing woody vegetation.

Story and photos by Jason Bruno

Perhaps the most anticipated new entry in American golf destinations is Sand

Valley Golf Resort. Mike Keiser's latest golf utopia is located in the "Badger State"

in the Central Wisconsin town of Nekoosa. Earlier this summer we made our way

to Sand Valley to experience the latest golf treasure in a state that is quickly

becoming known for being one of the finest golf meccas in the world.

The over 1700 acres of rippling heathland naturescape that features sand dunes

usually only found on the coastlines of Scotland and Ireland is an idyllic setting

for golf. The property at Sand Valley is the type of site that course designers dream

their whole lives about, and having Keiser as the principal only amplifies the

pedigree. Already open for play is the course that bears the resort's name - Sand

Valley. Crafted by Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (that officially opened on May 2nd

of this year), the course has trace elements of many of their other fine works,

most notably Bandon Trails and Sand Hills (although Trails does open and finish

along the gusty shores of Oregon's Pacific coast). About the only thing missing at

Sand Valley is the coastline.

David McLay Kidd's - Mammoth Dunes, which is now open for 9 holes of preview

play is something to behold, a brawny eclectic mix of designs that's inspired by

a renewed and re-energized original and his evolved thought process regarding

golf course architecture. MD is slated to officially open in the summer of 2018.

In true Mike Keiser style, the resort at Sand Valley is a natural and modest

setting that's ultra functional in all forms. Not unlike Bandon, the hardcore

linkster will truly appreciate the minimalist vibe here. The Clubhouse that

includes pro shop, restaurant and lodging had just opened the week before

we arrived, and although there were still a few details to be finished up, the

rooms, service and cuisine were spot on.

If an image tells a thousand words, than this one had me at hello. The

accommodations at the lodge are spacious and the views are grand. After

trekking 8 miles up and down the dunes of Sand Valley, it's important to

shift beyond the grind and experience comfort of the body and mind. No

detail was left unanswered, the beds are just right, the proper shower

(which is a key component of links recovery) which includes a sitting

bench. The in-room Keurig coffee machine is really convenient, and made

for a glorious morning. If that wasn't enough, the views of Mammoth Dunes

at sunset are priceless. Also, just in case you were wondering (and it's

likely you weren't), the carpet in the room rolls the perfect putting

speed of about a 10 on the stimp meter. Sometimes it's just the little

things, through multiple weather delays the flatstick was put to work.

The view from the back porch outside my clubhouse lodge accommodations

is of the first hole on the newest design at Sand Valley - David McLay Kidd's

Mammoth Dunes.

Another angle of the view from the back porch.

The Lake Leopold cottages are located between the clubhouse/lodge and

the first tee on the Coore/Crenshaw course.

(photo courtesy of Sand Valley Resort)

Craig's Porch overlooks the 1st and 10th tees and acts as a pre-round and

halfway house eatery. The 18th green also is situated just below, so a there's

another chance after the round to grab another brisket slider. You can't have

just one - they're absolutely delicious.

The hangout just below Craig's Porch is another ideal spot to soak in the setting

or just relax before or after the round. You can watch golfers play the first,

tenth, seventeenth and eighteenth holes from here.

New construction continues to emerge at Sand Valley. More lodging, a Coore/

Crenshaw short course and there are rumors of additional courses in the future

as well.

I'd really like to see Keiser branch out a bit and include a designer that he hasn't

worked with before like Jay Blasi (Chambers Bay), Michael Hurdzan (Erin Hills) or

even ASGCA President John Sanford (Ferry Point) - all very talented and highly

creative minds worthy of a site of this quality.

To say the central Wisconsin weather was uncooperative for golf and photography

would be a serious understatement. Numerous persistent thunderstorms pummeled

the area on day 1 of our visit, we only got in a total of 4 holes. Day 2 was an

exercise in patience and determination, after bolting first off the tee at 6:15 a.m,

we barely completed the front 9 before lightning and thunderstorms once again

blitzed the area, halting us for an additional 3 hours. Then finally, six hours

after teeing off, the 5 footer on the 18th dropped for birdie. After a quick bite, I

met Michael Keiser Jr, Glen Murray (the General Manager at SV), David McLay

Kidd and his globe trotting course design accomplice Casey Krahenbuhl. Kidd

then took me to get a preview of their work on Mammoth Dunes. A huge thrill

since I've been an admirer of David's work for quite some time. He was kind

enough to give me the grand tour and all the while looping the bag while we

discussed course philosophy and some of his prior work. It was an experience

any course design enthusiast would greatly appreciate (for a 30 year landscaper,

turf head and golf scribe, it was as good as it gets).

image courtesy of Sand Valley Resort

The par 4 - first at Mammoth Dunes

(coming soon)  Our conversation with DMK in Bruno's Blog:

"A Mammoth Stroll with David McLay Kidd".

It should be noted that one of the best things about Sand Valley is the variety

and playability created by the designers here. The tips are a modest 6913 yards

at Sand Valley and the three shortest sets of tees: Green - 5557 yards, Silver -

4757 yards and Royal Blue at 3883 yards. In other words, it's super playable

for everyone who wants to play, but there is one catch - it's a walking only

facility with caddies readily available.

From the orange tees (6500 yards), the short par 4 - 1st hole plays just

325 yards. A slight right to left shaped shot with a fairway club is the play

here as the fairway falls off to the native area on the right. Nothing more

than a wedge for your approach. This is a welcoming starting hole and a

chance to post a red number on the card right out of the gate.

Image courtesy of Sand Valley Resort

At 395 yards, the dogleg right 2nd requires discipline. No more than a 230 yard

tee shot leaves you just short of the cross bunkers. An uphill semi-blind approach

shot to a severely sloped (back to front) green here on the 2nd hole will be the

first true test of the day. The miss here is short, anything missed pin high left or

right leaves a tough chance to get up and down.

The par 3 - 3rd is another example of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw's affinity

for the designs of C.B MacDonald and Seth Raynor. This modern day "Redan"

is 192 yards but plays shorter because it's slightly downhill and the crest of the

slope will feed the ball towards any hole location.

The par 5 - 4th is the longest hole on the course at 593 yards from the tips

(557 from the orange tees). It plays directly uphill so three accurate well

struck shots are required here. This particular hole design felt reminiscent

of one of Coore/Crenshaw's lesser known designs - the now deceased Sugarloaf

Mountain.

The 164 yard par 3 - 5th is a bit of a sleeper. The extreme elevation of the

tee makes it play far less than the actual yardage, but don't underestimate the

challenge here. Notice the far left pin position, it appears fairly innocent from this

view, but there is only a small area to land your ball or it will be repelled off the

green, requiring the touch of a brain surgeon to save par. A worthy short par 3.

The 455 yard par 4 -sixth was not only the toughest hole on the course, but

it was also one that impressed from a design perspective, but it likely won't

be a favorite of the masses. Why you ask? It doesn't have any real elevation

to speak of, or anything really unique visually, but it's a good old fashioned

strap it on golf hole that requires your absolute two best strikes to have a

chance at par.

I'm a big advocate of playing different tees during a given round, either to

accommodate your skill set or to create more buzz amongst your group on

a given hole. Many never even consider moving a box up (or back) to make

a given hole play more interesting. The sixth is a prime example, the big

hitter will welcome the exam, while the senior or high handicap player can

easily struggle here. The best players will take the bold line challenging the

left fairway bunker, while the recreational player will have to play around the

sand.

Notice the freshly cut green complex here on the sixth, we were making

good time trying to beat the weather. This 90 foot shortgame challenge

proved too much for my early morning bump and run skills. No par save

here. That's a championship golf hole.

The 536 yard par 5 - seventh tee sports an elongated bunker that runs

the entire length of the tee shot and then some.

As you get closer to the green, this linear fairway bunker guards the left

side and acts as a clever misdirection to the right as the fairway veers

back to the left. Easily one of the best designed sand complexes on the

front nine.

A closer look at the bunkering here on the 7th shows the minimalist

style that designers Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw are known for .

The green complex at the seventh and the predicament of a shortgame

grinder.

After the demanding sixth, the finishing three of the outward nine are

just a blast and offer legit opportunities to get healthy on the scorecard.

The short uphill eighth is no exception, it played 118 yards, requiring

nothing but a smooth and precise gap wedge.

This is the sight as you walk over the rise after putting out at the eighth,

the driveable downhill ninth might provide the biggest adrenaline rush on

the course. It played 281 yards to the front pin. After a decent drive I was

pin high left in the swale between the trees and bunkers and it took a pretty

creative pitch to get it on and walk out of there with a par.

Another view of the ninth, this one from the very top of the hill. You didn't come

all the way to the heartland to lay up, did you? The tees range from 150 yards to

305 yards, so there's a sensible risk/reward opportunity for everyone - so find the

tee box that gives you a chance and let it rip.

The green complex at the ninth.

The view of the 541 yard par 5 tenth from Craig's Porch. The line for big hitters is

directly over the center bunker.

The approach at the tenth shows the overall right to left tilt of the green

complex. The best angle to this green is from the left side allowing for

the ground game to be a factor.

It only plays 387 yards, but the eleventh demands respect and favors a

slight draw between the bunkers.

The green complex at the eleventh plays slightly uphill, anything short will be

repelled back down towards the fairway. Beyond the green, you can see the

mound and thick rough, leaving a slim chance to save par.

The photo from the back right side of the eleventh green shows the severe

tilt from back to front.

The sky was becoming threatening once again as I teed off at the short

par 5 - 12th. The aggressive line is over the trees in line with the white

tee markers, otherwise favor the right side.

With hundreds of acres of native sand visible at SV, this fairway cross bunker

at the twelfth is probably my favorite gnarled creation - it looks demonic and

spectacular all at the same time. Just magnificent stuff by the Cooore/Crenshaw

design squad. I'm thrilled to say that I didn't have to play out of it though.

And of course they follow it with yet another just a few yards closer to the green.

The 175 yard par 3 fourteenth felt like we were dropped off at Pine Valley, a

rugged beauty that is easily to be enamored with. Overall, the one shotters at

SV are top shelf and offer magnificent variety of design and length - one short

(8th), two medium (3 & 14) and one long (17). Here at the fourteenth, the two

levels require proper distance control to have a decent chance at birdie.

The tee on the dogleg left 451 yard par 4 sixteenth, easily the most

formidable on the inward side.

You can tell by the ominous sky that we were lucky to get this round in.

Stay out of this nasty bunker that guards the center of the fairway at the

sixteenth, it's a mandatory pitch out. Par on this hole is quite an achievement.

The "Punch Bowl" par 3 seventeenth is a beast. It played all of 226 yards to the

back flag location. Once again choose the appropriate box and torch your Sunday

best over the right mound and let the contours do the rest. Needing two birds

to get back to level, this was going to require something special.

If you're a fan of course design, you're likely to appreciate the green complex

here on the seventeenth, the slopes will assist in funneling even slightly errant

shots onto the elongated putting surface. From there the task has just begun.

Bent grass was a a good choice for the greens at SV, can't ever complain about

making a 3 here on this the toughest of the par 3's at Sand Valley.

The par 5 eighteenth is a fantastic finisher. Playing straight uphill at 507

yards from the orange tees. Avoid the fescue on the left, and the numerous

bunkers along the right side. Perhaps your two best swings will give you a

chance to walk off on a high note.

The bunkering around the eighteenth is vast, and luckily I managed to avoid it,

just clearing the sand with a 3 wood. I couldn't resist capturing this image from

about 50 yards out. A successful up and down for birdie 4 from just in front of

the green made lunch taste just bit sweeter.

image courtesy of Sand Valley Resort

Breakfast, lunch, dinner or anything in between, the Mammoth Terrace (above)

and Mammoth Bar & Grill is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the Heathland

views, and delicious food and spirits.

An Ode to Keiser

As I headed east towards Erin Hills to cover the spectacle that is the U.S Open, it

dawned on me - It's a great time to be golfer, especially in North America, and a

lion's share of that is due in large part to one man - Mike Keiser. It's not just the

golf landscapes like Bandon, Cabot and Sand Valley that he has founded through

his vision and resources, but it's also his incredible conservation efforts like the Wild

Rivers Coast Alliance and the native foliage and plant life he preserves and strictly

demands the same of his course designers on each and every parcel of the properties

that have become links sanctuaries to us all. What he does with his influence and

passion is create and preserve the things that are most sacred - experiences with

nature. Consistently, Keiser makes things better than he found them and surrounds

himself with talented people who share the vision that bonds passionate golfers

that prefer golf in it's most pure and raw state. When he was once asked "What

would you like your legacy in golf to be?" Keiser answered: "He built golf courses

that withstood the test of time."

I think we can safely check that box. For that, I say Thank You Mr.Keiser . . .

Fee structure for golf at Sand Valley is extremely reasonable:

Ranging from Mon-Wed     $85 (low season) - $150 (high season) resort guest

Thurs-Sun  $105 (low season) - $195 (high season) resort guest

Mon-Wed    $95 (low season) - $175 (high season) day guest

Thurs-Sun $125 (low season) - $215 (high season) day guest

*Replay rates are 50% off posted rates.

9 hole Preview Play now available on Mammoth Dunes (image courtesy of Sand Valley Resort)

Mammoth Dunes par 3 -16th

*Just announced (8/15) - New Coore & Crenshaw Short Course

will begin a complimentary 6-hole loop that will be available for

lodging guests staying Sept. & Oct. 2017.

Also the Heathland Cup will take place Sept. 2nd-4th, 2017 -

54 holes Best Ball Tournament

For more information: http://www.sandvalleygolfresort.com/

By: Jason Bruno

Sentry World, located in the central Wisconsin town of Stevens Point has long

been known as the state's first true golf destination. This area, commonly referred

to as the "Gateway to the North Woods" is the link between the rolling farmlands

of the Badger state and the lake country to the north. The vision for this grand

daily fee parkland layout originated with the late (and former Sentry Insurance

Chairman) John Joanis. Joanis hired Robert Trent Jones Jr to design this midwest

beauty that opened to rave reviews back in June, 1982.

It was Joanis and RTJ II's collaboration that led to the creation of the Par 3

signature sixteenth known as the "Flower Hole".

After a damaging wind storm destroyed numerous trees on the 200+ acre property

over a decade ago, Sentry contacted RTJ II Design to come back and evaluate what

was needed to restore Sentry World to it's former glory. The firm summoned its young

and talented design associate (and native Badger) Jay Blasi to make the assessment.

Blasi informed the leadership at Sentry that the storm actually was beneficial to the

course and suggested the removal of a thousand additional trees (thus allowing for

open corridors, angles for more strategic play and improved air flow & sunlight

exposure for healthier turf). Also, upon further discovery, Blasi learned there was

a serious need to replace the outdated irrigation system, drainage, bunkers, and

many of the green complexes. Finally, in 2012 new Sentry chairman Pete McPartland

came on the scene with passionate energy and big picture vision to implement the

plan that was previously outlined.

There was really only one hurdle to leap for McPartland to bring it all to fruition -

RTJ Design was the company commissioned to do the renovation, but Blasi was no

longer part of their stable, he had left and started his own firm (Jay Blasi Design).

Blasi was McPartland's choice to oversee and implement the major improvements

to the course. To make a long story short, McPartland made it happen, Blasi would

be his point guard on the renovation as the Project Architect (along with RTJ II

designer Bruce Charlton). To spend an hour with Pete McPartland is to realize that

this is a person, and a leader of the highest order (a lunch meeting with Jay and

Pete is not just a treat, it's an honor).

Blasi and the RTJ staff quickly got to work, Jay himself spent the better part of

28 straight weeks on the property. The removal of trees opened up site lines,

vistas and enhanced the strategy elements for better players - thus, also allowing

for more enjoyment for all ability levels. Also, several hole routings were changed

or modified - utilizing some parcels of land that were previously untouched. For

those playing the forward tees, the distance was reduced to 4696 yards to increase

enjoyment. The challenge for those who aspire to conquer the sternest of tests

(from the back tees) was incresed to 7145 yards. The new expansive driving range

no longer faces the early morning sunrise glare of the east, and accommodates a

greater number of enthusiastic linksters.

The renovation completely closed the course for two years, in the fall of 2014

the facility re-opened for a preview. But it wasn't just the course that re-opened,

McPartland and the Sentry Company went a giant step further, they decided to

created an entire mega complex, devoted to golf, tennis, outstanding local cuisine,

and the best reception facility in the area for weddings, banquets and corporate

meetings. A jewel that would serve not only as a company asset but also as a

community treasure.

PJ's restaurant serves up the local flavor. Anything with cheese in Wisconsin

is a big hit, as well as the native fresh catch. Jay Blasi's go to comfort food

when in town is the tomato soup and grilled cheese. I chose the soup as well,

along with cheese curds and salmon tacos. For just getting off the plane and

driving 2 1/2 hours from Milwaukee (we were in town to also cover the U.S

Open and visit Sand Valley) - this was the perfect pre-round experience.

Delicious is an inadequate description of how outstanding the food is here

(outstanding service as well).

A Sentry World staple - Farmhouse Ale Cheese Curds

The staff were setting up for a large reception during our visit, this is one of

several halls equipped to handle any special occasion at Sentry World.

Make sure you get a good warm up, Sentry World starts off with a challenging

424 yard dogleg left par 4 (blue tees).

One of the new designs at Sentry World is the 473 yard par 4 second. Easily

the bully of the front 9, Blasi used part of the old eleventh to craft this hole

that offers great flexibility for tournament play (it can play as a 598 yard par 5

for professionals). A long accurate approach shot is required here, the green

offers a fair amount of back to front slope.

Any sign of significant elevation change is absent at Sentry World, but harmonious

natural surroundings like this "infinity green" at the par 3 - third is an early indicator

of how special the experience at Sentry World will be. Once a vacant pocket in the woods,

this lakeside parcel is now the setting for the shortest hole on the property. At 151

yards from the tips, it's the perfect chance to catch your breath after the challenge

of the opening holes.

The 299 yard fourth is a fabulous example of a risk reward drivable par 4.

Avoid Blasi's subliminal invite to go for the green and play less club to the

proper position on the right side of the fairway . . .

. . . here's the correct angle for an easy wedge. *Blasi took on his own

challenge and paid the tariff when his well-intentioned high draw fell just

short of clearing the hazard. I chose the less risky route, but taking the

"low hanging fruit" option doesn't require an apology after notching the

first circle on the card.

The par 3 seventh is the toughest of the one shotters at Sentry World (it played

211 yards during our visit) the slightly elevated shallow green requires the proper

club selection. Avoid any tucked pin location here and aim for the center of

this green, 3 is a great score here.

The 340 yard eighth is another example of variety at the new version of

Sentry World. This tight tree lined hole lends itself to precision over might.

The superb flash bunkering does a fabulous job of framing the landing areas

and defining depth. Simple beauty, nothing tricky here.

The re-designed 508 yard par 5 ninth gets my vote for the most fun hole on the

property. Using the original tee and green locations as well as the existing creek,

the design team crafted a fairway slot down the right side to encourage aggressive

play to this well guarded green. Although it's listed as a long par 4 for professionals,

I personally don't think it should be, the hole has a thirteenth at Augusta like essence -

it's beauty and temptation all neatly wrapped in one glorious setting . Hit two masterful

shots and you're likely rewarded, miss just slightly (as I did) and you'll be kicking

yourself for ruining a good opportunity to get healthy on the card. My immediate

thought after walking off that green was I want to play that hole again.

Another view of the ninth, this one from behind the green shows all the elements

of strategy, beauty and recovery.

Although the tenth offers back to back par 5's on the card, this is an entirely

different test than the ninth (playing 612 yards from the back tees), survival

is the theme here - par is a solid score on this monster dogleg right.

If there is a drivable par 4 on the course to take on - it's the new eleventh.

It Played 280 yards during our visit, and features a green that's now located in

front of the water (previously it was tucked further back and right of the hazard.

Longtime RTJ II designer and Sentry World co-project architect Bruce Charlton

gave his thoughts on the hole, "Creating the new eleventh really allowed us to

focus on increasing the fun factor". Pick the appropriate tee (who says you can't

move up a box to make the hole more of a risk reward challenge) and smash a

low bullet fade tee shot that leaves nothing more than a chip and putt to this

well undulated infinity green. This well crafted design gives you every chance

to put another circle on the card.

Perhaps the biggest change to the updated design at Sentry World is the 139

yard (161 yards from the tips) par 3 twelfth. Located in a previously unsullied

parcel on the property, the design team created a fantastic short par 3 on a

peninsula that requires your full attention - especially if the wind is blowing

(Blasi striped his mid-iron shot here that played much longer than the number

thanks to a stiff hurting breeze that came up just as we reached the tee). Don't

over club as I did here, plenty of room has been provided to the left for a viable

path to escape with par.

A view of the green complex at the par 5 fourteenth shows off the variable

patterns and heights of cut - brilliant work by Superintendent Matt Smith

and his grounds staff. *Look for our Q&A with Matt Smith coming soon in

our "Masters of the Moss" section.

The presentation of colors at the "Flower hole" can be distracting to the task

at hand, so take a few photos and enjoy the scenery on this one of a kind mid-

length (168 yard) par 3 that was inspired by RTJ's visit to Holland's Tulip festival

just before getting started on the original design 35 years ago. Blasi and I took

a few minutes to discuss the flora and all of its splendor, then settled back into

our match that was knotted up at All Square.

Ground level view of the hole gives you a better idea of just how much effort

the Agronomy/Landscape staff put in to create this iconic scene each spring.

The new seventeenth hole is much friendlier than the previous version

with more room off the tee and a short approach to a severely sloped

green that runs away from the player. This view from behind the green

is among the most serene at Sentry World.

The 18th tee, a 439 yard uphill right to left dogleg is a worthy finale.

Midwest conifers and evergreens guard the corner, while fairway bunkers

on the right catch any flared drives that fail to draw. Your two best are

required here to finish strong.

The back center pin sits just over a rise on a shelf, an uphill recovery from

short of the green allows for an aggressive shortgame play - miss this green

deep, and the round will likely end with a miscue.

Sentry World is a must play when traveling to the midwest. If you're planning

a Wisconsin golf vacation, put this re-imagined parkland Top 100 daily fee gem

on your list, and tell them who sent you . . .

For more info: https://www.sentryworld.com/

By Jason Bruno

Just about a month or so after the last putt dropped at the 2017 Arnold

Palmer Invitational, we returned to Bay Hill to experience what it's like

to be a guest at the club where Mr.Palmer called home every winter and

spring for nearly the last half century of his life.

We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the 2017 Arnold Palmer Invitational,

which was a celebration of "A Life well Played", and it was an honor to be on

hand to cover the event that won't soon be forgotten. It was a special week

dedicated to remembering Arnie.

On a beautiful spring morning in Orlando, the new statue of The King

forges an unforgettable symbol of an American icon that is missed by

all. The 13 foot effigy stands tall over the 1st tee in homage to the golf

legend that continues to inspire so many.

Palmer fell hard for the place when he first visited the club for an

exhibition match back in 1965 (photo above) and "began the quest to

make it his own". The quiet surroundings, abundant wildlife, and a golf

course that fit his eye was exactly what a 35 year old Palmer was looking

for. According to longtime assistant and friend Doc Giffin, "It appealed to

him because of the privacy, he thought he had found a nice, quiet, lovely

place (with a golf course)." In 1970, Bay Hill became his winter home,

and in 1979, the PGA Tour moved it's Central Florida stop permanently to

Bay Hill (which was originally designed by Dick Wilson in 1961).

To this day, remarkably, Bay Hill remains the serene place that Palmer

first laid eyes on over 50 years ago. Located on 270 acres along the Butler

chain of lakes between the ultra affluent communities of Windermere and

Dr.Phillips, the residences of Bay Hill itself are handsomely modest and

unassuming in a locale where gaudy gated mansions are the norm.

In fact, for many years, you could have driven through and seen the four

time Masters Champion coming out of his condo in the neighborhood to

take his dog for a stroll early in the a.m hours.

Despite all of the big time tourism development in the area over the last

45 years (Bay Hill is now bordered to the south by Walt Disney World and

to the east by Universal Studios), the place somehow has retained it's

quaint feel, so much so that when you turn west heading into the Bay Hill

neighborhood, it seems as if time has stood still and it's 1975.

The intimate charm of the lodge is felt from the moment you arrive. The staff

has a large role in that. It's almost as if Mr.Palmer has infused a micro-chip

of his own welcoming nature into every one of his personnel. While taking

notes during my stay, I constantly referred to it as the "A.P Effect".

As we learned, experiencing Bay Hill Club and Lodge as a guest is unique

to any other golf destination that we have featured. Yes, it has all of the

customary amenities that you'd expect at other well known world class golf

destinations. It is a private club for its members, but it also doubles as

a big time player in the golf resort industry, not in it's size, but in it's

stature. The seventy room lodge offers 3 restaurants, 3 bars, an aquatic

center, fitness center, spa, salon, Marina (bass fishing), tennis academy,

9,000 sq, ft of meeting space, and of course 27 holes of Arnold Palmer's

personal golf treasure. However, it's Mr.Palmer's culture and DNA that's

branded into the fiber of Bay Hill that makes it the gem that it is today. You

can't discuss a single element of the place without mentioning his influence

and presence here (even today some 9 months since his passing, and likely

for several decades to come). It's a really powerful positive energy that exists

here. It's old school manners, proper presentation and an abundance of kindness.

Little cool reminders like Mr.Palmer's "Umbrella" logo imprinted in the

sand ash tray give you an idea of just how well everything down to the

smallest detail is well thought out. The AP "Umbrella" logo is recognizable

worldwide, and perhaps has an even a greater significance to those here

and at Palmer's club in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

If someone at the club bestows one of The King's signature pins to you

consider it an honor as I did when longtime lockeroom attendant Rick

Roberts was kind enough to pass a few on to me after spending some

time remembering his boss and friend that he still misses dearly. The

card table where Arnie and his group would gather each day is just about

a medium length birdie putt away from where Roberts' would serve up the

King's favorite - Ketel One. He introduced me to Arnie's close friend and

shootout partner Dick Ferris (who brought Palmer into the fold as a co-

owner of Pebble Beach along with Clint Eastwood and Peter Ueberroth

back in the summer '99).

Recently a $7 million renovation of the rooms was completed - resulting

in spacious and comfortable lodging, nothing ostentatious. The feeling

conjures up the vibe that you're staying in Arnie's spare room at Latrobe.

Photos from a "Life Well Played" don the walls of every room. In ours was

a black-n-white from the 1965 Ryder Cup Team deboarding at the airport

in England. (Unlike many resorts that rotate stock photos in their rooms,

every picture in every room at Bay Hill Lodge is a different moment in

Arnold Palmer's life - each selected by Mr.Palmer and his family).

The compulsion to pull the curtains away and observe the setting is too

much for any golfer to bear. What a great spot to spend a few days, now

it's time to grab the putter and wedge.

Another view from just outside the room - the practice putting area,

starters booth and 1st tee.

On your way to the Salon, Spa, Pool, Lounge, Cafe or Golf Academy

you traverse through this beautiful courtyard and gardens.

Mr.Palmer's personal table in the Bay Hill grill room. He would sit in the

chair closest to the door so he could see everyone in the room.

Palmer's Payne Stewart award is displayed in Bay Hill's grillroom

While on property I spoke with many of the key figures at the club

not only about Mr.Palmer, but also about the day to day operations

at Bay Hill. One of the great people in the industry to sit down with

is Roy Schindele who is the Director of Sales and Marketing.

LN How does the loss of Mr.Palmer impact the day to day operations at

the club, and how do you move forward as a staff considering how large

of a presence he was on a daily basis?

R.S: "The vibe here at the club comes from the staff that are so proud to have

worked with him (Mr.Palmer) directly - carrying on his legacy comes naturally.

That's indicative of the tenure of the people who have worked for him. We

have people that have been here 37 years, 34 years, 28 years and right on

down the line. Todd (Harris) our Tennis Pro has been here 46 years. If

anything we've stepped up our game and tightened things up a little bit to

his standards and wishes in a very unwavering way" Schindele said.

He continued, "The little things of respect and honor have been carried forward.

For example try walking down the hallway with your hat on, we're going to ask

you to take it off, because that is what Mr.Palmer would do. His philosophy

was consistency, customer service and if you take care of those two things,

the bottom line will take care of itself. It's just a step forward, not necessarily

a monetary decision but what's right for the guest or the member."

Dining in the grill room is another excellent experience. The full 180 degree

window view of the the practice areas and 1st tee set the mood for the day.

Sometimes the finest of details come in the pursuit of deliciousness, Schindele

gave us a minute example of one that you're sure to notice with your taste

buds. While in the grill room having breakfast before departing for home, I

made an observation about how spectacular the bacon was - so much so,

that I felt compelled to take this photo (above). The best way I could describe

the "Bay Hill Bacon" (as I now refer to it as) is not by it's texture or taste but

by what I would do for another serving. I'd make the 150 mile trek up the Florida

Turnpike from West Palm Beach just to get a another portion.

As it turns out, Schindele brought it up without me saying a word. "Our bacon

is never frozen from the time it's produced, to when it's delivered here, cooked,

and put on your plate - because we found that (freezing it) it diminishes the taste.

It costs the club nearly triple of what most resorts pay, but again it's not a monetary

decision, it's about quality." Right then I thought "Arnie must have loved bacon as

much as his guests." Once again I jotted down "The A.P Effect".

While a guest, work on your game all you want, the staff will keep you

supplied with pyramids of range balls all day long.

Mr.Palmer's spot on the range is still set up each day in memory of where

he enjoyed spending so much of his time each day before heading out to play

in the daily "Shootout" match with his regulars. During the PGA Tour stop in

March his golf bag was also on display here on the far right side of the practice

tee. Quite often he'd be seen back out here in the evenings tinkering with a new

club or swing thought. Many like Lee Trevino, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player

have said that no one ever loved the game of golf more than Arnold Palmer.

My last evening at the lodge I had the entire shortgame area to myself,

oh what it must be like to be a member. Being a guest is the next best

thing.

In the photo (above), look beyond the statue towards the lodge - you

can see PGA Tour Pro Dicky Pride working on his putting. He later would

tell me "That is definitely my testing spot," Pride said. "I use the windows

of the dining room as a mirror to check my setup."

Close friend of Arnold Palmer and golf legend himself Dow Finsterwald is

a member and resident at Bay Hill. We spent a few minutes watching the

1958 PGA Champion make putt after putt from 8 feet and all he could say

was "they're not going in the center of the cup." Still a competitor at 87

years old. On any given day, you can bump into a golf legend like Dow

at Bay Hill.

Superintendent Chris Flynn's Agronomy Team moves through each

golf hole with remarkable precision.

The main attraction at Bay Hill is always the golf course and it lived

up to expectations, challenging a young tour player and a middle aged

grinder with every club in the bag. We had a magnificent day on Arnie's

championship layout. The 184 yd par 3 seventh (pictured above).

The 460 yard par 4 eighth was sporting a tucked championship Sunday

pin (even though it was a Monday). It played as our seventeenth (we

started on the back nine), it's also where I missed an 10 footer for birdie

to keep the match alive. The young pro (Michael Kartrude) had closed

me out 2&1.

The 438 yard eleventh has danger written all over it. There are no shortage

of right to left approach shots on Arnie's signature course. Afterall it was

the King's natural shot shape. You can see the water level in this photo,

Florida was in serious drought conditions in late April. Now, not so much.

A view from beside the 221 yards back tee on the gorgeous seventeenth.

The blue tees where I played from were 177 yards.

The 458 yard par 4 eighteenth is easily one of the more memorable

finishing holes on the PGA Tour. It has been the scene of so many

victorious Tiger celebrations that were shared with Arnie. In 2016,

it was Jason Day who celebrated here with Mr.Palmer one last time.

One of the really cool items inside the clubhouse is this guitar that ZZ Top

gave Palmer as a gift.

This timeless black and white image from the Masters Par 3 contest shows

Arnie and Tiger Woods playing to a magnificent throng of patrons. It might

be my single favorite golf photo. It was a gift from former Pennsylvania

Governor Tom Ridge to Sam Saunders. Today it hangs in the clubhouse just

outside the grill room.

This wall of Palmer golf memories in the grill room is a reminder of what a

full life he led and those he shared it with.

To be at Bay Hill is a treat in itself. It's a Lodge, a private golf club and

resort all in one. To be a Stay n Play guest taps you into that whole

experience, but first and foremost it is Arnold Palmer's (winter) home

and will always remembered and honored as such. Mr.Palmer's family has

done an outstanding job of carrying it forward. The staff here are truly an

extension of him and his legacy. So when you arrive and check in at the lodge,

soak it all in - we did.

When I pulled out of Bay Hill and made the right hand turn onto Apopka-

Vineland road heading for home, I had this hard to describe feeling, it was

as if I had just exited one era in my rear view mirror, and entered into

another looking forward. I thought "Wow, that's powerful. It's a one of kind

intangible sensation you have while on the grounds. I stopped at a red light

a few miles down the road, took out my note pad and one last time jotted

down: "AP Effect".

If you ask me about a lasting vision that I take away from Bay Hill

each time I'm on property - it is this photo. It requires no explanation.

It simply makes me smile . . . #ArnieWould

For more info or to book your stay at Arnie's Place: http://www.bayhill.com/