Club Champion Iron Fitting Review (Cary, NC) - PGAPappas Winner Guest Review

You probably know the expression, "Once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, three times is a pattern."  And a Club Champion fitting is an absolute pattern of excellence.  You've heard me tell you about how thorough, extensive, and beneficial a CC fitting is.  Hundreds of thousands of golfers every year get fit at Club Champion and learn firsthand it's an extraordinary fitting unlike anything else they've ever experienced.

And you can now add the winner of my 12 Days of Christmas Club Champion iron fitting giveaway to this growing list of players who are entirely fulfilled by their triumphant fitting results and ultimate custom equipment build.  Bubba (@BuhBuhBakes) on X/Twitter was fit at Club Champion - Cary, NC, and calls his fitting "A game-changing experience," saying he now has irons that he's "truly confident in and excited about."

Titleist Introduces Vokey WedgeWorks 44F Pitching Wedge

Titleist introduces the new Vokey Design WedgeWorks 44F pitching wedge, designed for players who prefer the performance and profile of a Vokey pitching wedge but require a stronger loft to properly gap their set.

The current lowest-lofted wedge in Vokey Design’s SM10 lineup is the 46-degree F Grind, which many players game in place of their iron set pitching wedge. The SM10 46.10F pitching wedge, or even 48.10F for some, offers different performance benefits than a set pitching wedge, namely improved spin control from the rough and turf interaction from the fairway. Many prefer the profile of a Vokey pitching wedge at address as well.

FootJoy Releases the New HyperFlex

FootJoy, the #1 Shoe in Golf, has been the #1 shoe on the PGA Tour for 80 consecutive years because of a singular dedication to the game of golf and a relentless commitment to performance innovation, style, comfort and quality.

As part of FootJoy’s continued commitment to innovation, the brand is introducing radical updates to the successfulHyperFlex line of golf shoes. Finely tuned to empower the athletic golfer, the new HyperFlex is a powerhouse of comfort, traction and performance. 

Precision and Slope Have Gone Ultra-Compact with Bushnell Golf’s New A1-Slope Laser Rangefinder

Bushnell Golf, the industry leader in laser rangefinder technology and distance measuring devices, is proud to unveil the A1-Slope, its latest breakthrough in the distance measuring device category.

Designed to empower golfers with unmatched accuracy including Slope compensated distances, the ultra-compact A1-Slope delivers precise distance readings in a sleek, modern package that is as reliable as it is easy to carry.

The Watersound Club Team Announces the Opening of Its Newest Course, The Third, Designed by Golf Legend Davis Love III

The Watersound Club® team proudly announces the official opening of The Third, a premier 18-hole championship course designed by golf legend Davis Love III and his team at Love Golf Design for the prestigious Watersound Club private membership club. Spanning acres of green in Panama City Beach, FL, The Third enhances the exclusive club's world-class offerings, bringing its total to 54 holes of championship-level golf. Named in homage to its designer and as a nod to its place as the club’s third course, it delivers a dynamic new playing experience to the region. 

Starting March 20, The Third will be available for play, not only to members, but also to guests of Camp Creek® Inn.The luxurious 30A hotel boasts a Member for a Stayprogram, which treats guests to Northwest Florida’s most sought-after, otherwise private, amenities and championship-caliber courses during their stay. The Third is the latest of several recent demand driven expansion projects, including Watersound Camp Creek® amenities, featuring a state-of-the-art wellness center, tennis and pickleball courts, a sprawling pool complex and three dining venues, as well as Watersound Club Sporting Preserve, a 15-station sporting clays course.

Indian Wells Golf Resort Announces Players Course Renovation

Indian Wells Golf Resort – the world-class golf, vacation, culinary and events destination located in the picturesque Coachella Valley – announces the official groundbreaking of the much-anticipated renovation of its celebrated Players Course on March 5.

Led by distinguished golf course architect John Fought and his team, the renovation will see multiple holes rerouted – most notably the ninth, 17th and 18th holes. Currently a par 72, the Players Course will transform to a par of 71 and will feature two exciting new finishing holes. The par-3 No. 17 and par-4 No. 18 holes are currently the only two holes on the south side of the Whitewater Wash running through the property. The project will see both moved across the waterway to join the bulk of the golf course on the north side.

 

Additionally, the par-5 ninth will be shifted closer to the clubhouse to improve access to food and beverage amenities at the turn. The project will also feature a “refresh” of the bunkers, tee boxes and greens on each hole to ensure a consistent and exceptional playing experience. Off the course, part of the renovation project includes a new fire-access road that will allow fire trucks and other heavy vehicles to traverse the wash between the clubhouse and the heart of the Players Course.

 

“We are excited that one of the country’s best public golf courses is about to become even better,” says Robin Graf, general manager of Indian Wells Golf Resort. “It’s been a pleasure working with Fought and his team to realize the incredible possibilities for this project, and we can’t wait to welcome our residents and guests from around the world to experience the new design later this year.” 

 

Originally redesigned by Fought in 2007, the Players Course has routinely ranked among the top public-access golf courses in the country.  The structural changes planned will enhance the playability of the renowned course while also preparing the layout for its future role as host of elite professional golf championships.

 

“We are looking forward to enhancing one of the great municipal golf courses in the U.S.,” says Fought. “The Players Course will become a true championship layout that will test the best players in the game as well as provide a wonderful experience for golfers of all skill levels.” 

 

Indian Wells Golf Resort is set to host the 2024 Epson Tour Championship from Oct. 3 – 6 as their top players compete for status on the LPGA Tour at the finale of the season-long “Race for the Card.” The championship will take place on the Players Course with hopes to host future championships once the renovation project is completed in 2025. 

 

Indian Wells Golf Resort is also preparing to open its much-anticipated new restaurant, Kestrel. Born from the creative mind of celebrity chef Richard Blais, Kestrel is located on the top floor of the clubhouse and will officially open for business this fall. With a menu inspired by Blais’ take on fresh California cuisine, the new restaurant and bar is the perfect setting for a night out or elevated post-round fare.

 

For more information about Indian Wells Golf Resort, www.indianwellsgolfresort.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram.

FlightScope Launches The Planning Tool

FlightScope, the global leader and pioneer in tracking and analyzing sports performance data, is pleased to announce the launch of the FlightScope Planning Tool, an innovative application designed to help golfers strategically prepare for any course by predicting shot outcomes based on personal performance data and environmental conditions.

Powered by FlightScope’s patented Environmental Optimizer, the Planning Tool calculates carry distances for up to three days in advance, using shot data and local weather forecasts for any golf course worldwide. By factoring in real-time environmental conditions, golfers can make informed club selections and strategic decisions before stepping onto the course.

Andrew Green Begins Work on Firefly Courses

Storied Development, in partnership with Wheelock Street Capital, is excited to share progress on Firefly, a 700+ acre luxury golf and residential community taking shape in Spring Hill, Tennessee, just 30 miles south of Nashville. Following the official groundbreaking in December 2024, construction is now well underway on Firefly’s centerpiece: an 18-hole championship golf course and a 9-hole short course, both designed by acclaimed golf course architect Andrew Green, the first original design of his award-winning career.

Green is renowned for his masterful restorations of historic courses, including Scioto, Congressional, Inverness, Oak Hill, East Lake, and notably, Interlachen Country Club. His restoration of Interlachen not only reclaimed the original Donald Ross design but also recently earned ‘Best Renovation’ honors from Golf Digest in 2025.

Pine Valley Golf Club to Host 2044 Walker Cup Match

This past weekend at the United States Golf Association’s Annual Meeting, the USGA announced the following championship updates: Pine Valley Golf Club will host the 2044 Walker Cup Match; Stu Francis named USA Captain, 2025 Men’s World Amateur Team Championship; Kendra Graham named USA Captain, 2025 Women’s World Amateur Team Championship; and Meghan Stasi named 2026 USA Curtis Cup Captain.

The venerable Pine Valley Golf Club, in Pine Hill, N.J., will host its fourth USGA championship, having previously hosted the 1936 and 1985 Walker Cup Matches. The renowned venue will also host the 2034 Curtis Cup Match.

New PING Scottsdale Putters Offer Feel Forgiveness and Custom Fitting

Nine highly forgiving models engineered with a face insert influenced by athletic-shoe technology comprise the new Scottsdale putter family, PING CEO & President John K. Solheim announced today.  

The Scottsdale Craz-E, Prime Tyne 4, Prime Tyne C, Oslo 3, Anser, Anser 2D, Anser 4, B63 and DS72 are available for pre-order at PING authorized retailers around the world beginning today. The U.S. MSRP for each putter is $270. A SuperStroke grip is standard on all models.

The Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort Hole By Hole Review - PWPICopperhead

When the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort hosts the Play With Pete Invitational on March 13th it will be the first time PWPI is held on an annual PGA Tour stop track.  And?  It gets even more compelling.

PWPICopperhead will be played exactly one week before the Valspar Championship.  So players and live-stream viewers alike will see Copperhead at its most dangerous with Tour conditions and a Tour setup.  It will present an authentic PGA Tour challenge and PWPICopperhead players will be measured.

Turtleson Introduces the Riviera Collection

Turtleson, creators of striking, sophisticated apparel for discerning customers who appreciate exceptional style and wearability, today unveiled the Riviera Collection for Spring ’25. Designed to reimagine Turtleson’s classic designs with fresh colors, refined fits and the understated elegance of the French Riviera, each piece in the collection is crafted for individuals who appreciate polished style with a touch of adventure.

The Riviera Collection effectively blends timeless inspiration with contemporary innovation, ensuring that every piece meets the needs of the modern gentleman – on the golf course, in the office or on a weekend getaway. The key story, however, is a new refinement of Turtleson’s classic polo, which after extensive research is now built with a structured collar that holds its shape without collar stays or uncomfortable rigidity. The design also features a modernized placket for a cleaner look, and tailored sleeves for improved ease of movement. The result – the most comfortable, versatile, and sophisticated polo Turtleson has ever produced.

PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection Honors The King with a Contemporary Twist

Arnold Palmer was known as The King for a lot of reasons, but for true fans it was as much about his charisma and style as it was his incredible talent on the links. As such, the latest installment of the PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer collection is designed to capture Arnie’s iconic style with a contemporary twist for both men and women.

The new PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection men’s line features a mix of bold and subtle graphics complemented by tasteful colors that allow for a great variety of looks. The understated elegance of Arnie’s umbrella is juxtaposed with vibrant floral patterns in some items, while others feature a playful “tea time,” pattern complete with the makings of Arnold Palmer drinks. Tipped jacquard polos also offer impressive detail that those with a sharp eye will appreciate, while a color palette that includes the likes of Zen Blue, Pale Pink, and Deep Navy, inspire both the excitement and the calm of the quickly approaching Spring weather. 

Driven with Style: Cobra Golf x Arnold Palmer Limited Edition DS Adapt Drivers

There’s no golfer in the history of the sport that embodies the combination of spectacular style and performance more than the KING, Arnold Palmer. From driving greens to piloting jets around the world, Arnie was a high-octane competitor that always looked as good as he played.

In honor of the KING, COBRA Golf is offering new, limited-edition Arnold Palmer DS-Adapt drivers. Complete with Arnie’s iconic umbrella logo pattern on the two-tone crown and sole as well as special edition shaft and headcover, the new limited-edition driver is available in three DS-Adapt models - LS, X, and MAX-K. 

Golf Statesman and Course Developer Mike Keiser to Receive USGA’s Bob Jones Award

The United States Golf Association (USGA) will present its highest honor, the Bob Jones Award, to Mike Keiser during U.S. Open Championship week in Pittsburgh this June. Presented annually since 1955, the award recognizes those who personify the character, sportsmanship and respect for the game as its champion namesake.

“What inspires us about Mike is his love for what is pure and good about the game, his investment in golf that’s open to the public, his drive to promote recreational golf and the joy he feels when he plays – and those strong connections have never wavered,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA, who made the announcement at the USGA’s Annual Meeting at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club this weekend. “We’re grateful for the example he’s set, which pushes the entire industry to think bigger.”

USGA Names Kevin Hammer as President-Elect at 2025 Annual Meeting

As Fred Perpall embarks on the last year of his three-year term as president of the United States Golf Association (USGA), the organization has appointed Kevin Hammer as its president-elect and added two business leaders – Dianne Dixon and James Gorrie – to the Executive Committee, its 15-person volunteer board.

Voting for the board, which provides strategic and financial oversight, took place at the USGA Annual Meeting at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club this weekend. Photography from the weekend can be found here:  2025 USGA Annual Meeting.

Motocaddy M7 GPS REMOTE and M7 REMOTE Upgraded for 2025

Motocaddy, the world’s leading electric caddy brand, has upgraded two of its award-winning remote control models with a sleek sporty design and on-course performance features ahead of the 2025 season.

Responding to the growing trend among American golfers to turn away from riding carts to improve their health, the all-new M7 GPS REMOTE and M7 REMOTE models have been designed with American golfers in mind, with over 80% of Motocaddy’s 2024 U.S. sales being in the remote category.

ECCO Golf Reimagines BIOM Franchise With Nature-Inspired BIOM H5

ECCO GOLF, leaders in golf footwear innovation, continue to push the boundaries of comfort, style, and technology with the introduction of the ECCO GOLF BIOM H5, a performance golf shoe built for the elements. Drawing inspiration from the rugged Scottish Highlands and leveraging ECCO’s renowned Danish innovation, the BIOM H5 is a step forward for the golf shoe experience and represents the true nature of golf.

The BIOM H5 features ECCO’s all-new ECCO-TEX waterproof membrane, which ensures golfers’ feet stay dry and comfortable even in the most extreme conditions. The next-generation BIOM golf shoe offers a modern, sporty aesthetic with all-day comfort, crafted from ECCO Performance Leather and a minimal seam-knit sock construction. Enhanced by BIOM® NATURAL MOTION® technology, the BIOM H5 offers a snug fit that provides stability and forward momentum for dynamic comfort.

PING Announces 2024 Power Fitter Awards

To recognize custom fitters who distinguish themselves by elevating the custom-fitting experience and demonstrating how properly fit clubs translate to better and measurable results on the course, PING today announced its PING Power Fitter Award winners for 2024.

This year’s list includes 353 winners from around the United States, a mix of highly accomplished on- and off-course facilities that deliver the game-changing expertise that PING Founder Karsten Solheim envisioned when he pioneered custom fitting more than six decades ago.

Play the PGA Tour’s Mexico Open Course with an Exclusive Golf Package at VidantaWorld

Following the thrilling PGA Tour’s Mexico Open at  VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta, where Brian Campbell dazzled with his standout victory, VidantaWorld is inviting guests to experience championship-level golf firsthand. 

This exclusive package is designed for golf enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike, offering the chance to tee off on the prestigious Vidanta Vallarta course—home to the PGA Tour’s Mexico Open. Walk the same fairways as the pros, experience championship-level play, and indulge in world-class hospitality for an unforgettable golf getaway.