One man’s precision with a long iron results in a free feeding frenzy for all Americans. PGA Tour player Briny Baird teed off the top of the Omni Hotel roof in San Diego and accurately hit eight out of ten balls inside a bullseye 230 yards below in the Petco Park outfield.
Arizona State University head women’s golf coach Melissa Luellen has been honored as the National Coach of the Year by the National Golf Coaches Association following her team’s victory in the NCAA Championship in late May. Luellen was also honored as the West Region Coach of the year and was named Pac-10 Conference Coach of the Year for the third time in the last four years.
The Arizona Golf Association (AGA) launched their all new Mid-Am Series in early May and it will run thru September. These are one-day, 18-hole events for amateurs 25 and older. There will be three events in June, one in July, two in August and the finale will take place at Desert Forest Golf Club in September.
The signature hole at Kierland Golf Club is without question the 9th at Acacia. With the pristine and award-winning Westin Kierland Resort looming behind the green, this par-5 will test any golfer. One thing I have always loved is a par-5 in which you can see the green in plain view—this is certainly the case here. From the elevated tee you can practically see your reflection in the 15th floor windows of the hotel.
This isn’t a well-kept secret, and my praise shouldn’t shock you. Golfweek Magazine recognized The Golf Club of Estrella as the No. 7 “Best Golf Courses You Can Play in Arizona” in 2008. Estrella also received accolades for the No. 7 “Best Arizona Public Golf Courses” by RANKING ARIZONA. Most residents are surprised when they learn the Club is public. It’s true—this desert gem is a prestigious and affordable golf destination located just 40 minutes southwest of downtown Phoenix.
Carved through the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, just minutes north of Phoenix, Rancho Manana Golf Club offers spectacular views combined with a more-than-meets-the-eye golf experience. Elevation changes abound on this course and the views are truly breath-taking.
Two paths diverged on a golf course. One headed toward the first tee box, the other toward the tenth. Depending on which one you take, that will make all the difference.
