Golf News

GolfN, the App That Pays You to Play, Reports Growth, Bandon Dunes Sweepstakes

Marc Hall April 23, 2026

Golf News

GolfN, the App That Pays You to Play, Reports Growth, New Ways to Earn New Golf Gear and Possibly Win a Trip to Bandon Dunes – Rewards app community surpasses $250K in redemptions and 100K monthly active users.

MERRILLVILLE, INDIANA — GolfN, the innovative golf rewards platform and digital caddie app that pays golfers to play, reports steady growth in user engagement and rewards redemption, passing the 100,000 mark for monthly active users across its digital ecosystem, and $250,000 in member rewards redeemed. Additionally, since the app launched in 2025, 50,000 rounds have been tracked by members engaging with the in-round scoring, GPS, and social features.

The golf community’s first true rewards app, GolfN allows members to redeem points they accrue by playing rounds with the GolfN mobile app engaged – with or without its dynamic GPS yardage and digital caddie mode. And golfers are becoming hooked on the gratification of earning those points with eyes on using them to claim coveted merchandise from some of golf’s respected brands, including L.A.B. Golf, Miura, Cobra Golf, Bettinardi Golf, Srixon, and Cleveland Golf.

“One member simply explained that for every three rounds he plays, he earns the equivalent of a brand-new Cobra wedge, so why wouldn’t he open the app and simply hit ‘Start Round’ and ‘Tee Off’ every time he plays?” Co-founder and CEO Jared Phillips said. “Credit cards rewards programs don’t necessarily pay you back like this, in golf items that you really want. We have seen eleven straight weeks of setting new records for both new users and rounds played – over the winter – which tells me we’re building something that people genuinely want to engage with and take deeper.”

GOLFERS REALLY WIN ON THE GOLFN APP
Another loyalty-driving cornerstone of the GolfN platform is its thrilling rotation of sweepstakes opportunities, in which there is always something new to bid on or win. To date, golfers have secured extraordinary prizes such as a nine-day golf trip to Northern Ireland, a L.A.B. Golf putter fitting excursion to Oregon, an expenses-paid trip to Carlsbad, Calif. For a full-bag Cobra Golf custom fitting experience, a custom Bettinardi putter set, with more enticing offers – and chances to win – from GolfN’s growing list of Points Exchange partners.

“What we consistently hear from users is this sense of surprise and delight — people winning something or redeeming points for an experience they never thought was within reach. Maybe it’s a new set of wedges, a driver, or even a trip,” Phillips said. “Those moments change how someone relates to the game. It makes it more accessible, more attainable. What resonates with me personally is helping the everyday golfer get closer to the game they love.”

Winner of the recent Cobra Golf Sweepstakes, Tyler Fields was flown from Oklahoma to Southern California to be fit for a full set of Cobra woods, irons, wedges, a putter and golf bag, a monumental upgrade from the used set he purchased when he first took up the game.

His experience can be seen in this video:

“I downloaded GolfN, played a couple rounds. Then I saw they had this Cobra experience on there and I put all the points I had on it. I don’t think I could have even dreamed of having this experience without this sweepstakes,” Fields said.

BANDON BOUND
Just in time for peak golf season, GolfN also recently launched one of its most anticipated sweepstakes to date, the 1st Annual GolfN Invitational at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Sweepstakes in which every round played on the GolfN app through the end of his summer automatically earns users an entry into this exclusive member event at the famed Coastal Oregon Resort, Oct. 21 – 25. Additional rounds increase their chances to win, further incentivizing play and engagement during the game’s busiest months.

Entry into the 1st Annual GolfN Invitational at Bandon Dunes includes:

Four nights in single-occupancy luxury king rooms at the Inn, Lodge, or Round Lake
Rounds at Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, and Bandon Dunes — plus an optional short course round at Bandon Preserve
Welcome dinner, prizes, and tee gifts

“We really strive create special opportunities for GolfN users. Golf is a commitment, both in time and financially, and golfers deserve to be rewarded for that commitment,” Phillips said. “What has really surprised me is the intensity of our members’ engagement. There’s this moment where someone joins, tries it out, and then suddenly accelerates — they’re playing more, logging in more, interacting constantly. Our power users are logging in more than 75 times a month. That’s not normal behavior for a golf app. That’s something deeper and seeing it quantified across thousands of users was incredibly powerful.”

Accessibility remains central to GolfN’s model. The app is free to use, ensuring that any golfer can begin earning immediately. For those seeking to accelerate their rewards, GolfN offers optional membership tiers that provide points multipliers and enhanced earning potential — without compromising the core free experience.

As GolfN continues to scale, its mission remains clear: to make every round more rewarding, every golfer more engaged, and every moment connected to the game more valuable. The app is available to golfers everywhere in Apple and Android versions.

Learn more at GolfN.com.

About GolfN
GolfN is the first golf rewards platform designed to reward players for every aspect of their game. Combining a free digital caddie with a robust rewards ecosystem, GolfN enables golfers to earn points both on and off the course, redeemable for premium gear, exclusive experiences, and once-in-a-lifetime trips. With a rapidly growing user base, industry-leading partners, and innovative sweepstakes offerings, GolfN is redefining how golfers play, engage, and win.

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

Five Michigan Golf Properties/Destinations Earn National Recognition

Ted Odorico April 22, 2026

Golf News

Pure Michigan Golf: Five Michigan Golf Properties/Destinations Earn National Recognition in USA TODAY 10BEST Awards

LANSING, Mich. – The State of Michigan, widely regarded as America’s Summer Golf Capital with more than 650 top courses and award-winning resorts, has had five of the state’s top golf properties and destinations awarded among USA Today’s 10BEST Golf Destinations, 10BEST Golf Resorts, and 10BEST Public Golf Courses in the country.

The annual 10BEST Awards highlight the finest experiences across the country, with nominees selected by a panel of industry experts and editors, then voted on by the public.

“Michigan continues to be recognized as a top-tier golf destination in the U.S.,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “With more than 650 public courses, there is a golf experience for every level of play. From the historic and esteemed courses of Metro Detroit to the forests of the Upper Peninsula and the scenic beauty of northern Michigan with sweeping views of the Great Lakes, there’s no place like Pure Michigan for a truly memorable golf vacation.”

Leading the way is Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, which earned the No. 1 ranking among the 10BEST Golf Destinations. Anchored by destinations such as Island Resort & Casino and Bay Mills Resort & Casino, the Upper Peninsula features acclaimed layouts, including Sweetgrass Golf Club, Sage Run Golf Course, Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club, Bay Mills Golf Club, as well as The Jewel and Wawashkamo on Mackinac Island. These courses are known for their dramatic terrain, thoughtful design, and immersive experiences that blend championship golf with the region’s untamed wilderness.

Long celebrated for its rugged natural beauty and better known for outdoor pursuits like hunting, snowmobiling, and its signature pasties, the Upper Peninsula has quietly emerged as one of the nation’s most compelling golf getaways.

Also earning national recognition is the Petoskey Area, ranked No. 5 among the 10BEST Golf Destinations. Situated along the shores of Little Traverse Bay in Northern Michigan, the region offers a rich collection of 17 courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Among its highlights is Bay Harbor Golf Club, one of the most visually striking courses in the country, featuring holes that run along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, through a quarry, and hardwood forests. Additional standout courses in the Petoskey Area include Belvedere Golf Club, Dunmaglas, Charlevoix Golf & Fitness, Hidden River Golf & Casting Club, Chestnut Valley Golf Club, to name a few, as well as a collection of courses at The Highlands—part of the renowned BOYNE Golf portfolio.

“We are extremely excited that the Petoskey area was recently recognized as one of the 10 Best Golf Destinations in the country”, said Jim Powell, Executive Director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. “It’s no surprise, with 17 world-class courses located within a 30-minute drive, the Petoskey area needs to be on every golfer’s bucket list. Located on Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, this region has a long history of golf, starting with the development of some of the first resort courses in Michigan to the award-winning portfolio of courses curated by BOYNE Golf. In addition to golf, the region is well known for its easy access to natural beauty and selection of vibrant communities, including Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay View, Bay Harbor, and the Boyne Valley.”

Among the 10BEST Golf Resorts category, BOYNE Golf stands as Michigan’s sole resort representative. One of North America’s largest golf resorts, BOYNE Golf encompasses three premier lodging properties and 11 championship courses across Northern Michigan. For 60 years, the organization has been a leader in destination golf, offering a blend of award-winning layouts and upscale hospitality.

At the center of its portfolio is Bay Harbor Golf Club, widely recognized as one of the most iconic public golf experiences in the United States. The 27-hole facility features the Links, Quarry, and Preserve courses, each offering a unique landscape—from dramatic lakeshore cliffs to rugged quarry terrain and serene forest settings. The Highlands features five distinct layouts, including The Heather, Arthur Hills, The Moor, Donald Ross Memorial, and the recently introduced Doon Brae par-3 course, offering a diverse and complete golf experience. The third BOYNE Golf property, Boyne Mountain, has two fantastic 18-hole layouts – the Monument and Alpine courses offering outstanding mountainside golf and some of the most spectacular panoramas in the state.

Complementing the golf experience are BOYNE Golf’s premier lodging options, including The Inn at Bay Harbor along Lake Michigan, the Mountain Grand Lodge and Chalet Edelweiss at Boyne Mountain, and the recently transformed Main Lodge at The Highlands. The latter has been reimagined as a boutique hotel inspired by the charm of an English country estate, blending timeless elegance with modern comfort.

“These awards prove why Michigan is known nationally and internationally for offering great golf experiences. It’s an honor to be recognized by USA Today 10BEST, alongside the best golf resort properties in the country,” said Josh Richter, PGA, Senior Vice President of Golf Operations for BOYNE Golf. “Our ranking as the #3 Golf Resort in the United States is a testament to our BOYNE Golf team’s efforts, along with lodging, food, and beverage, who ensure that our guests have the best golf experience when visiting BOYNE Golf.”

Michigan also earned recognition in the 10BEST Public Golf Courses category, with two standout golf courses making the national list. The Cardinal at Saint John’s Resort, located in Plymouth, was ranked No. 6. Designed by Ray Hearn, the course represents the Detroit region’s first high-end public golf development in more than two decades, transforming a former 27-hole layout into a modern championship experience set across 200 acres. Joining it is Black Lake Golf Club, ranked No. 7. Designed by renowned architect Rees Jones and owned by the United Auto Workers, the course is set within a pristine 1,000-acre forest along the shores of Black Lake.

The USA TODAY 10BEST rankings reinforce Michigan’s standing as one of the premier golf destinations in the country. With its diverse collection of courses, award-winning resorts, and unforgettable landscapes—from the shores of the Great Lakes to the forests of the Upper Peninsula—the state offers an unmatched golf experience that appeals to both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Visit https://www.michigan.org/golfing

Press release by: Kevin Frisch – Kevin Frisch PR

McIlroy Among Golf’s Mount Olympus

Ted Odorico April 12, 2026

Golf News

McILroy joins Nicklaus, Faldo, and Tiger as the only back-to-back Masters champions.

AUGUSTA, GA — The air beneath the towering Georgia pines at Augusta National has always been heavy with history, but on Sunday at the 90th Masters Tournament, it hummed with something rarer: the birth of a dynasty. As the sun began to dip behind the clubhouse, a roar erupted from the 18th green—a sound so primal and resonant it felt as though it could be heard all the way in Holywood, Northern Ireland.

For Rory McIlroy, the journey to this moment was never going to be a simple stroll down Magnolia Lane. Coming into the week as the defending champion, the weight of expectation was suffocating, yet he answered the call by surviving a final-round dogfight that tested every ounce of his resolve. By fending off a relentless charge from the world’s elite and navigating a heart-stopping finish, McIlroy has done the unthinkable.

With this victory, he moves beyond the stars of today and into the pantheon of the immortals, becoming just the fourth player in the century-long history of the tournament to successfully defend his title. Joining the exclusive company of Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods, Rory didn’t just win a golf tournament today; he cemented his legacy as the undisputed King of Augusta.

Highs, Lows, and a Heart-Stopping Finish

McIlroy’s final round was anything but a victory lap. Starting the day tied with Cameron Young, the Northern Irishman’s quest for a second Green Jacket was a roller coaster of emotions.

. The Highlight: After briefly losing his lead earlier in the round, Rory took control on the back nine. He carded a dazzling birdie on the par-3 12th and followed it up with a clutch long-range birdie on the par-5 13th. His touch around the greens was legendary, specifically a sensational par save on the 17th from the rough that preserved his one-stroke cushion.

. The Low Point: Disaster nearly struck on the 18th hole. With the title within reach, McIlroy sent his final drive deep into the trees. While the gallery held its breath, he navigated the trouble to secure a bogey 5, finishing at 12-under par—just one shot ahead of a charging Scottie Scheffler.

From Dominance to Doubt

The week began as a coronation. Rory opened with a wire-to-wire mentality, posting a dominant second-round 65 to build a massive six-shot lead. By Friday night, it looked like he was playing a different game than the rest of the field.

Rory shakes hands with Cameron Young on the 18th green after securing the win.

However, “Moving Saturday” lived up to its name. McIlroy stumbled with a 1-over 73, allowing Cameron Young, Scottie Scheffler, and Sam Burns to erase the deficit and turn Sunday into a wide-open brawl. The field sensed blood, but the defending champion found his “fresh sense of patience” just in time.

A Place in the History Books

By securing his second green jacket, McIlroy has moved beyond mere greatness and into the realm of sporting immortality. His performance at the 90th Masters didn’t just earn him a trophy; it rewrote the record books in three distinct categories:

. The Exclusive Back-to-Back Club: Rory cements his name alongside the absolute titans of the game. He joins Jack Nicklaus (1965-66), Nick Faldo (1989-90), and Tiger Woods (2001-02) as the only men in history to successfully defend a Masters title at Augusta National.

. Major Milestones: This victory marks Rory’s sixth major championship, a number that elevates him into an elite bracket of legends. He now sits tied with Phil Mickelson, Nick Faldo, and Lee Trevino for the 12th-most major titles of all time, officially surpassing icons like Brooks Koepka and Byron Nelson.

. The Earnings Race: The financial rewards of his dominance are equally historic. With a record-breaking $4.5 million winner’s check, McIlroy’s career on-course earnings have surged to within $6.3 million of Tiger Woods’ all-time record, making the pursuit of the top spot a realistic goal for the 2026 season.

This is Rory’s sixth major championship. He now sits tied with legends Phil Mickelson, Nick Faldo, and Lee Trevino for the 12th-most majors of all time.

The “burden of the Grand Slam” that once haunted every step of Rory’s journey through Amen Corner has finally been lifted, replaced by the indomitable foundation of a dynasty. For years, the question was when he would finally join the elite; today, the question is how high his ceiling truly goes.

As the final putt dropped and the tension of the 18th-hole drama evaporated into the humid Georgia air, McIlroy walked off the green not just as a champion, but as a father and a husband, falling into the emotional embrace of his family. The scene served as a poignant reminder that while the history books will record the back-to-back titles and the $4.5 million check, the man behind the clubs has found a “fresh sense of patience” that makes him more dangerous than ever.

With six major championships now to his name and the all-time earnings record of Tiger Woods squarely in his sights, the golfing world is no longer watching a player chasing ghosts. Instead, they are witnessing a master in his prime, a player who has mastered the mental gymnastics required to conquer Augusta National twice in as many years. As the green jacket was draped over his shoulders for the second consecutive time, the message sent to the field was unmistakable: The King of Augusta has claimed his throne, and he has no intention of abdication anytime soon.

The Tiger’s Tail: Reflection, Resilience, and the Road Ahead

Ted Odorico March 29, 2026

Golf News

Beyond the headlines, we reflect on the generational impact of Tiger Woods and the unwavering spirit of golf’s most iconic figure.

In the quiet hours of a Sunday afternoon at Augusta National, there is a specific type of silence that only one man can command. It is not the silence of indifference, but the heavy, expectant hush of a world watching a living legend navigate the twilight of a career that redefined an entire sport. At Golf Tips Magazine, our mission has always been to provide the tools for improvement and the inspiration to keep swinging. Today, however, we set aside the mechanics of the draw and the physics of the flop shot to speak on something more fundamental: the human spirit of the man who gave us the modern game. Recent headlines surrounding Tiger Woods have once again ignited a firestorm of speculation, critique, and, in some corners of the media, a rush to judgment. At Golf Tips, our official position is one of unwavering encouragement. We believe that what Tiger Woods does in his private life is exactly that—personal. Unlike the mainstream media, which often dwells on the fractures in a person’s foundation, we choose to look at the monumental structure he has built for the game of golf.

This is an article of empathy for the struggle, a cautionary reflection on the weight of greatness, and a celebration of the most impactful career in the history of the sport.

The Architect of Modern Golf

To understand the current chapter of Tiger Woods’ life, one must first respect the sheer magnitude of the book he has already written. Before Tiger, golf was a niche pursuit, often viewed through a lens of exclusivity and tradition that moved at a glacial pace. Then came 1997. When a 21-year-old Tiger Woods dismantled Augusta National to win his first Masters by 12 strokes, he didn’t just win a tournament; he shifted the tectonic plates of the sporting world. He brought an athleticism to the tee box that the game had never seen, turning the golf swing into a high-velocity expression of power and precision. He made “Tiger-proofing” a necessity for courses around the globe, forcing architects to rethink the very limits of the game. But his impact went far beyond yardage. Tiger Woods invited the world to the fairway. He broke down racial and socioeconomic barriers, inspiring a generation of golfers who finally saw someone who looked like them holding the Claret Jug or wearing the Green Jacket. Every time we see a young phenom today—athletes who treat their bodies like high-performance machines and approach every shot with clinical intensity—we are seeing the “Tiger Effect” in real-time. He didn’t just play the game; he rebuilt it in his image.

The Weight of the Gaze

There is a cautionary tale to be told about the price of such singular excellence. For nearly three decades, Tiger Woods has lived under a microscope that would crush most individuals. When you are the “Chosen One,” there is no such thing as a quiet mistake. Every stumble is a front-page story; every recovery is a miracle or a letdown. As we reflect on his journey, we must acknowledge the immense physical and mental toll of maintaining that level of dominance. Tiger’s career has been a masterclass in resilience, defined by a series of comebacks that defy medical logic. From reconstructive knee surgeries to spinal fusions that were supposed to end his playing days, he has consistently willed his body back into competitive form. The cautionary element here is not for Tiger, but for us, the observers. It is a reminder of the fragility of even the most robust icons. It highlights the danger of tying a human being’s entire worth to their statistical output or their public perfection. When we demand that our heroes be infallible, we forget that they are prone to the same gravity that affects us all.

A Position of Encouragement

At Golf Tips Magazine, we choose to lead with empathy. The latest news, while complex, serves as a reminder that the path of a legend is rarely a straight line. We see a man who has given everything to his craft—a man who has played through unimaginable pain to hear the roar of the crowd one more time. Our stance is simple: we are here to support the person, not just the player. The challenges Tiger faces today, whether physical or personal, are his to navigate, and he deserves the space to do so with dignity. We believe in the power of the “long game”—the idea that success isn’t just about the trophies in the case, but the ability to recognize when change is needed and to address it with the same discipline used to master a 60-degree wedge.

Why We Still Believe

Why do we remain so staunchly in Tiger’s corner? Because golf is a game of integrity and second chances. Every golfer knows the feeling of a bad round—the frustration of a drive that finds the woods or a putt that lips out. But we also know the beauty of the next tee box. The game teaches us that no matter what happened on the 9th hole, the 10th is a fresh start. Tiger Woods has shown us this “fresh start” mentality time and time again. His 2019 Masters victory remains perhaps the greatest comeback in sports history, a moment that wasn’t just about golf, but about the refusal to be counted out. It was a win for everyone who has ever been told their best days are behind them.

Moving Forward

As we look to the future, we hope for health, peace, and continued growth for Tiger. Whether he ever hoists another major trophy is secondary to the legacy he has already secured. He has been the ultimate ambassador for the sport, a father who shares his love of the game with his son, and a figure who continues to draw millions of eyes to the screen just to see him walk onto the range. To the fans, we say this: let us be the gallery that cheers not just for the birdies, but for the man himself as he navigates this next leg of his journey. Let us offer the same grace we would hope for on our own toughest days.

Tiger Woods changed golf forever. He gave us moments of magic that we will tell our grandchildren about. For that, he has earned our respect, our silence when it’s needed, and our loudest encouragement when he decides to step back into the light.

BOYNE Golf Nominated for Best Golf Resort in USA Today 10BEST

Kevin Frisch February 26, 2026

Golf News

One of North America’s largest destination golf resorts will be a part of the annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

Petoskey, MI – BOYNE Golf, a collection of 11 golf courses across three destination resorts in Northern Michigan, has been nominated for the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. The national awards, curated by a panel of subject-matter experts, recognize top attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards is voted on by the public, which begins on Monday, February 23rd at noon EST and ends on Monday, March 23rd at 11:59 am EST. The top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, will be announced on Wednesday, April 1^st at noon EST.

Readers can vote at https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-golf-resort/.

In 2025, BOYNE Golf was recognized by USA Today as No. 1 among the 10BEST Golf Destinations in the U.S. for a golf getaway. In addition, The Highlands was ranked No. 2 in the 10BEST Golf Resort category.

“We are very excited to once again be nominated by USA Today 10BEST, and to have the opportunity to be recognized nationally alongside some of the best golf destinations in the country is an honor,” said Josh Richter, PGA, Senior Vice President of Golf Operations for BOYNE Golf. “The significant investment we have made in our golf courses and lodging renovations in recent years, along with our team of golf professionals, agronomy, lodging, and food and beverage, and the passion they bring to ensure our guests have an amazing experience at BOYNE Golf, is a testament to giving us this amazing opportunity.

Everett Kircher, who founded Boyne Resorts in 1947 by acquiring 40 acres of land with a modest ski hill for $1, has since become North America’s largest family-owned golf and ski company. A former Michigan state senator said as he accepted $1 from Kircher for the land – “Anybody damn fool enough to want to build a ski hill, well … I’ll give you this property.”

BOYNE Golf’s flagship destination along the shores of Lake Michigan is the nationally recognized Inn at Bay Harbor and Bay Harbor Golf Club, a premier luxury retreat built on the site of a historic limestone quarry and cement factory. Designed by Arthur Hills, Bay Harbor Golf Club features 27 holes, including the award-winning Links/Quarry and Preserve courses, blending dramatic bluffs along Lake Michigan with holes routed through a striking rock quarry and hardwood forests. Nearby, Crooked Tree Golf Club winds through centuries-old hardwoods overlooking Little Traverse Bay.

Across its three northern Michigan resorts—Bay Harbor, The Highlands, and Boyne Mountain—BOYNE Golf offers an unmatched variety of experiences. The Highlands now features five courses, including The Heather, Arthur Hills, Donald Ross Memorial, The Moor, and the new Doon Brae Par 3 course and Back Yaird Putting Course. At Boyne Mountain, guests enjoy mountainside golf on the Monument and Alpine courses alongside diverse lodging options, from the Mountain Grand Lodge to Chalet Edelweiss.

About BOYNE Golf

BOYNE Golf has been recognized as one of North America’s “Premier Resorts” (Gold) by GOLF Magazine. The Highlands at Harbor Springs, rated the No. 1 Golf Resort for Value by Golf.com, features four championship courses, a new par three-course Doon Brae, and a 27-hole putting course, The Back Yaird. The Heather, the 2019 NGCOA Course of the Year, was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., while Arthur Hills crafted the Hills Course. In addition, the resort features The Donald Ross Memorial, a rendition of the legendary architect’s great holes from around the country, and the always fun Moor course. The Highlands is the perfect buddy trip destination for golfers who like to play as many holes as they can during the long summer daylight hours that northern Michigan features.

The Inn at Bay Harbor and Bay Harbor Golf Club, the premier golf destination’s flagship properties, feature 45 holes, including three golf course combinations designed by Arthur Hills (Links/Quarry, Quarry/Preserve, and Preserve/Links), and the scenic Crooked Tree Golf Club, with one of the most beautiful and iconic hotels in America, all set along a scenic five-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Boyne Mountain not only features two picturesque 18-hole courses (The Monument and The Alpine), along with the charming Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa, it is also the leading family-friendly golf destination in the region with the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, junior golf camps, and various kid golf programs. Golf Digest named Boyne Mountain one of its “Top 10 Destinations for Family Golf Trips.”

For more information, visit BOYNEGolf.com.

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort Announces Major Champion Two-Day Golf School

Marc Hall February 25, 2026

Golf News

2002 PGA Championship winner Rich Beem joins Director of Instruction Bobby Steiner for unique two-day game improvement opportunities.

HORSESHOE BAY, TEXAS – The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort – located at the AAA-Four Diamond and Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Award-winning resort, a part of the Crescent Hotels & Resorts Latitudes collection – has the return of its 2-Day Major Champion Golf School that debuted last year.

On March 21 and 22, 2026, golfers can experience a two-day golf school with 2002 PGA Championship winner Rich Beem and Horseshoe Bay’s Resort Director of Golf Instruction Bobby Steiner. This powerhouse coaching team will provide the tools and confidence for golfers to take their game to the next level. Availability is limited to six participants.

Horseshoe Bay Resort – Director of Instruction Bobby Steiner

Beem’s father was a 25-year PGA of America member and taught the game full-time. Thus growing up, Beem assumed he would be a lifelong teacher as well. “I would’ve been if I hadn’t found success on the PGA Tour,” says Beem. “It’s nice to be on the lesson tee again, helping people get the most out of their game,” says Beem.

The Major Champion 2-Day Golf School package includes guest room accommodations, as well as admission to the school.

Major Champion 2-Day Golf School Schedule:

9am to Noon – Putting, Chipping, Pitching, and Full Swing (complete with Trackman video analysis)
Noon – Break for lunch with Instructor (included in your package)
1pm – 9-Hole Playing Lesson with Beem and Steiner
3pm – End of school day, all participants are free to continue playing and/or practicing for the remainder of the day.

“Some lessons are better learned on the course, and so in addition to playing my own ball, I play the role of caddie during playing lessons,” says Beem. “It’s more about teaching people how to think their way around the course. Many 15-handicappers could be single-digit if they just made better decisions on the course.”

Steiner adds “It brings me great joy to help every student reach the level to which they aspire. At these schools, those who join us will enjoy the rare experience of learning from someone who stood toe-to-toe with the game’s greatest players and emerged victorious. Everyday golfers can learn a great deal from Rich’s approach to playing and scoring and keeping a great attitude on the course.”

The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort is a purpose-built facility designed to enhance the game of golfers of all levels, featuring advanced technology such as Trackman and Toptracer, dedicated short-game practice areas, and a partnership with Callaway Golf for equipment and fitting services.

The 3,000-square-foot academy, helmed by the experienced instructor and author Steiner, offers personalized instruction, golf schools, and clinics in a comfortable and technologically advanced environment. The space features two climate-controlled indoor bays fully equipped with technology that provides real-time swing analysis and golf simulator capabilities; eight covered outdoor hitting stations with technology for detailed shot data, yardage and ball flight tracking; and 4,500-square-foot short-game area with natural grass putting and chipping green.

To learn more about the Major Champion 2-Day Golf School at Horseshoe Bay Resort, visit https://www.hsbresort.com/golf/golf-academy/.

About Horseshoe Bay Resort
Horseshoe Bay Resort is one of America’s largest golf and lakeside resort destinations. It is located 45 minutes from Austin on more than 7,000 picturesque acres of the Texas Hill Country and along the spectacular shores of constant-level Lake LBJ. It features four championship golf courses designed by World Golf Hall of Fame members Robert Trent Jones Sr and Jack Nicklaus, as well as the exciting 18-hole Zoysia-grass Whitewater Putting Course.

Horseshoe Bay Resort has invested $150+ million in a property-wide capital improvement program and new construction. The work included enhanced guest accommodation and meeting spaces, as well as renovation of the golf courses and club houses. The resort also features a lakeside spa, world-class tennis and pickleball, a full-service lake marina, and a private airport. The AAA Four Diamond resort is part of the Crescent Hotels & Resorts distinguished Latitudes lifestyle hotels and resorts division. For more information and reservations visit www.hsbresort.com or call 877-611-0112.

About Crescent Hotels & Resorts
Crescent Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, nationally recognized, operator of hotels and resorts with over 120 properties in the United States & Canada. Crescent is one of the few elite management companies approved to operate upper-upscale and luxury hotels under the brand families of Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. Crescent also operates a collection of independent and lifestyle properties under the Latitudes Collection umbrella. These properties include NOPSI Hotel New Orleans, Horseshoe Bay Resort, and The Opus Westchester, Autograph Collection. Powered by innovative, forward-thinking experts, Latitudes is a modern management platform for lifestyle hotels and resorts where creative concepts connect with modern travelers from urban boutique hotels to oceanside luxury resorts.

Crescent’s clients include premiere REITs, private equity firms, and major developers. For more information, please visit www.crescenthotels.com and www.latitudesbycrescent.com or connect with Crescent on LinkedIn.

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

2026’s Hottest Indoor Golf Trends Revealed

Marc Hall February 25, 2026

Golf News

The Indoor Golf Shop and Practical Golf’s Jon Sherman Keep You Up to Date on Simulator and Launch Monitor Technology.

The landscape of golf is changing. No longer is it just played on golf courses around the world, it can also be played in your garage, basement, or a sports bar with the right setup. Thanks to companies like The Indoor Golf Shop, it’s never been easier to set up a home golf simulator or even to add one or two or more to a clubhouse or any other entertainment establishment.

The Indoor Golf Shop’s one-stop shopping multiverse offers an industry-leading selection of residential and commercial indoor golf equipment, which includes a full selection of launch monitors and simulators from companies like Trackman, Uneekor, Garmin, Bushnell, Flightscope, ProTee, Full Swing, and Tru Golf. The company also offers projectors, wall padding, golf mats, and many other products to help you set up your own sim at home.

But where is this industry going? Has it reached its peak? How real can these experiences get? And perhaps, just as important, how good are these simulator and launch monitor setups for serious game improvement?

To answer some of these questions, we talked to an expert, Jon Sherman, the founder of Practical Golf. Sherman’s newsletters, website, and podcasts are all about helping golfers get better. And having an indoor simulator or even just a launch monitor can play a large role in a golfer’s progress. He says it’s never been more affordable, and easier to set up. And now we are starting to see more and more stand-alone businesses that are focusing on simulators, whether it’s for league play, lessons, or just pure enjoyment. And that trend’s not ending anytime soon.

Let’s talk about the realism and effective game improvement that a good launch monitor/simulator setup can bring to serious golfers. What are your thoughts on what has made launch monitor technology so much more relatable to the outdoor game?

First off, my personal opinion is that Trackman has one of the best softwares, especially when you take into consideration different range environments, the testing you can do, the games, the tournaments and so on. I just think if someone wanted the absolute best software with graphics, user interface, challenge, Trackman is definitely the leader.

Of course, that comes at a premium price, correct?

Yes, in order to get into that world, you have to buy the Trackman iO or the Trackman 4, which is $15-25K, plus you’re going to commit to $1,100 a year on software costs. It is definitely an investment, but it’s worth it.

But in my opinion, I think GS Pro (an add-on subscription to compatible launch monitors), which is the software I use, is way more cost-manageable. And I think that their practice environments have a lot of good skill development games. You can customize the range really well. I actually prefer that over some of the leading OEM software. Now, it doesn’t work with every launch monitor but they do have integration with Foresight Sports systems now, for example.

What about really affordable systems like SkyTrak? You can’t use GS Pro with it, correct?

Right. SkyTrak has decided not to do that because they want a proprietary system now. Obviously, with Trackman, you’re going to use their software, which is incredible. Foresight is solid, but it does have some features like dispersion tracking and some other stuff that would be better for clubfitters. But as a consumer product, I would say GS Pro is amazing, as far as a dynamic software that’s going to help bring your simulator experience to life.

When it comes to using the indoor environment for game-improvement, can launch monitors and simulators be an effective tool?

They do a better job of customization of the environment now. You can go on Trackman, for example, and there’s a mode where you can do a variety of testing, like running different tests of clubs. There’s a mode where you can customize the range in terms of the green, like do you want to go to a back right pin, or do you want to do a short-game challenge. You can do situational practice on the golf course. You can really put yourself in an environment that you would face on the golf course.

To take it further, let’s say you’re really uncomfortable hitting a 50-yard wedge shot over a bunker. You can create that environment. Or you can say, I want to have a front-left pin on an elevated green, and work on my strategy here and make sure I don’t chase that pin.

So you can genuinely create any scenario you like on the golf course or range. And in addition to that, they have really good diagnostics like strokes gained data, and you can see how good your shots are with launch angle and distance. And you can get competitive with it.

Trackman Combine is also incredible. I’ve always loved that, and they have something similar in GS Pro now. So yeah, it’s just so much more robust. I think there’s like four or five different main practice environments you can do on Trackman.

Price accessibility and unprecedented competition within the indoor golf space have led to affordability with a high return on investment for those with modest to medium-range budgets. What are companies like SkyTrak doing to give consumers high value without paying top-of-the-market prices?

I was originally a SkyTrak user, so I’ve been a big fan of what they’ve done. I always thought the software had good practice tools. Like they had the bag mapping (how far you hit each club in the bag), the wedge matrix, and a performance test. Now since they’ve kind of rolled together with Golftec (which bought SkyTrak in 2022), they actually had very good skill-based practice, where you can create physical boundaries. They have fun games that are similar to Trackman where you can do bullseye stuff and arcade game type scenarios.

SkyTrak also just added swing speed training with the new ST Max, which is the newest version of the launch monitor. You can have a speed training environment where you can measure your swing speed without hitting a ball, which has become a really popular training method.

So in terms of overall value, SkyTrak seems like a great option.

I’ve always thought SkyTrak was one of the best indoor golf solutions. If you ask me who’s the best below Foresight and Trackman in terms of a launch monitor manufacturer, in terms of game improvement software, SkyTrak is probably it.

But you can make the argument that Foresight has gotten more aggressive. I would honestly rather pay more for better software and save a little bit of money on the launch monitor. Less expensive launch monitors are still pretty accurate. I think that’s a pretty good tradeoff in that space.

And I do think SkyTrak kind of has an ace up its sleeve with that Golftec integration. They’re just going to keep adding more and more game-improvement features. They’re very focused on that.

So what are we looking at pricewise to set up a SkyTrak system?

Right now, with the new ST Max, you’re going to pay between $2,500 and $3,000 for a launch monitor. You have to take the SkyTrak subscription which I believe is anywhere between $300 to $600 a year. They’ve got the Foresight/Trackman courses on there now, which is nice. So yeah, you’re going to pay a little more for their software. But you’re saving on the launch monitor; you’re not going to spend eight to 10 grand on that… That’s the tradeoff. They’re investing more in the software, but it’s also gotten more expensive. And you can only use theirs.

As we see simulator bars and clubs popping up all over the place, could you share your insights on this both as a value for consumers and as a potential small business idea?

I think their biggest challenge, talking to some of the owners, is just how to fill up ambient time, and by that I mean, weekday time and even weekday nights, especially in the warmer months.

I think some of the bigger companies have figured that out with food and beverage. But then you have smaller ones. I’ve seen a self-serve model. There’s basically no one working there. You just purchase a membership, and you book it online, and you have a key fob and you can get in there whenever you want. I think that’s the solution in terms of doing one that has a much lower overhead. You don’t have to pay as many – or maybe not any – employees, but there are far fewer perks available. It’s just people who want to hit golf balls and nothing else. But the bigger companies have figured it out.

Can you give some examples of the bigger companies that are finding success?

We have one here in the Northeast, Golf Lounge 18. They have about 12 locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Long Island. And they’ve been expanding. They build really nice high-end places with bars and big screen TVs. They go for the crowd that wants to watch a football game and hang out. A friend of mine who’s at my club goes to a high-end place like this on Long Island.

Then there’s Five Iron Golf (which offers memberships, leagues, lessons, and can host parties up to 200 people). They’re the national success story. Callaway invested in that. They are in just about every major city.

Is there still room for growth in the golf entertainment/indoor country club and game improvement facilities space?

It’s definitely happening. But it’s not always an easy business. I think there are challenges with that ambient time. Although many have found a model that fills the time with older clients on weekdays, kids and junior programs and league play in the afternoon, and league play or some form of golf entertainment in the evenings.

I don’t think it’s going to stop. Golfers will get more and more used to playing indoors and the technology is going to continue to make the indoor game more realistic-feeling. I don’t think it’s going away. I don’t think it’s a fad. I think it will become more commonplace, especially for people who don’t have the room or the budget to do it at home.

Like here where I live, we’re not playing golf for four or five months. So it’s a way to hang out with your golf buddies who you might not see over the winter. Your golf buddies are different from your normal friends sometimes. Like you hang out at the simulator together. I’ve done that with my friends. I enjoy it.

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

Shangri-La Resort Director of Golf Ryan Snyder Named South Central PGA’s Merchandiser of the Year

Marc Hall February 5, 2026

Golf News

MONKEY ISLAND, OKLAHOMA – Ryan Snyder, PGA of America Director of Golf at Shangri-La Resort + Golf Club, Oklahoma’s premier waterfront golf and outdoor recreation destination, has been named the 2025 PGA Merchandiser of the Year for the Resort category in the South Central PGA Section.

“I’m honored to receive the award,” said Snyder. “I couldn’t have done it without my amazing staff, including head pro Brice Long, assistant pros Mateo Villegas and Chad Dalton, as well as our inside staff and clerks like Mike Jacobs and Mike Haney who have done an excellent job providing a high-value purchasing experience for our members and guests. This is a great place, it’s down-to-earth, and we really love what we do. Rolling into 2026, we’re going to try to win it again.”

Director of Golf Ryan Snyder – South Central PGA’s Merchandiser of the Year

Shangri-La boosted its rounds played in 2025, which in turn increased greens fees sales and merchandise sales. The shop sells apparel labels like Donald Ross, Peter Millar and Under Armour, and club brands like PXG, Callaway, and Titleist. “This isn’t a normal spot,” says Snyder. “It’s relaxed, laid back where you come in and have a good time, let your hair down, and enjoy. We say, ‘Hi and how are you?’ and I think everybody appreciates the friendliness. We’re very service-oriented, help people out, and put forth gestures that make everybody feel at home.”

Snyder says Shangri-La’s golf merchandising philosophy is rooted in a simple belief: the golf shop is the heartbeat of the club experience. “It’s the first impression, the service hub, and a reflection of the values we uphold on and off the course,” he says. “We strive to create an environment that’s welcoming, professional and inspiring, where golfers of all levels feel valued, informed and excited about the game.”

Every product the shop carries must elevate performance, enhance comfort, or celebrate the traditions of golf. The shop offers a balanced assortment that blends trusted industry leaders with innovative emerging brands, ensuring members and guests have access to the best equipment, apparel, and accessories.

“Our philosophy emphasizes seasonal planning and strategic storytelling,” adds Snyder. “Merchandising is not just displaying products — it’s presenting solutions, guiding purchasing decisions, and creating emotional connections. We use cohesive color stories, purposeful layout, and modern visual standards to keep the shop fresh, dynamic, and aligned with member expectations. Each display looks exceptional but also improves product accessibility and drives engagement.”

He also believes in providing exceptional service, personalized knowledgeable support through custom fittings, special orders, and proactive communication. And he makes sure that staffers build relationships, understand preferences, and anticipate needs that allow them to offer an elevated retail experience that extends beyond the transaction.

Snyder says staffers manage inventory with discipline, analyze sales performance regularly, and make data-driven adjustments to ensure profitability and long-term sustainability. “Ultimately, our merchandising philosophy reflects our mission: to enrich the golfer’s experience through excellence, creativity, and unwavering attention to detail,” he says. “People and culture come first.”

Visit shangrilaok.com for more information.

About Shangri-La Resort
Shangri-La Resort, located on northeastern Oklahoma’s 46,500-acre Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, is the ultimate destination for relaxation and both indoor and outdoor activities. The resort hotel offers 9,000 square feet of versatile meeting and conference space, as well as a medical spa, steam room, sauna, fitness center, an indoor pool, and an expansive 6,500-square-foot outdoor pool with hot tub, tanning ledge, and splash pad. The resort offers six distinct dining and cocktails venues to complete an unforgettable getaway for golfers, families, groups, corporate and association retreats, and weddings.

Shangri-La’s visionary owner Eddy Gibbs has transformed the resort into the pride of Northeast Oklahoma and put the lakefront vacation oasis on the map nationally with an investment of more than $100 million into the property’s accommodations and upscale leisure amenities since taking over in 2010.

Surrounded by the waters of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees on three sides, the revered 27-hole championship Shangri-La golf course meanders through rolling parkland landscapes with elevated Bentgrass greens and clever bunkering along with more open, flowing fairways accented by ponds, streams, and the breathtaking lakefront. The Legends ninth, “The Mickey Mantle Hole,” uniquely features two separate greens complexes and is named after the New York Yankees legend who hosted his Mickey Mantle Golf Classic charity tournament at Shangri-La and once holed an albatross on this iconic par five.

The Anchor indoor/outdoor activity park offers basketball, tennis, pickleball, cornhole, and a unique “Mini-Fenway” WIFFLE®Ball park, as well as a catch-and-release fishing pond for children under 12. The 11,000 square-foot indoor facility offers traditional arcade games, virtual reality games, a LaserShot shooting simulator, and Trackman Golf simulators. The popular Sports Bar at The Anchor features several sports screens, including two giant video walls, along with ping-pong, pool, shuffleboard, darts, and foosball.

The resort’s full-service marina offers permanent rental slips and courtesy docks for those who visit the resort by water and is replete with a ship store that even sells gasoline and diesel. Boat and personal watercraft rentals are available, along with yacht charters and Oklahoma’s only parasailing adventures.

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

Honma BERES 10 – Artistry Meets Pure Speed

Joanne Miller February 4, 2026

Golf News

BERES 10 is defined by performance, luxury, and craftsmanship.

Carlsbad, CA — Honma Golf, the leader in beautifully crafted performance golf equipment, today announces the launch of BERES 10, the next generation of the iconic collection. Crafted for players who value consistency, luxury, and effortless power, BERES 10 elevates performance through greater distance, precision, and control.

For more than 65 years, Honma has manufactured the world’s most luxurious golf clubs and has turned heads with its prestigious BERES family of clubs. BERES 10 continues this tradition, representing the highest expression of luxury in golf, where rarity, refinement, and performance exist in perfect harmony. Globally recognized as a symbol of prestige, BERES has long been the choice of those who value craftsmanship at its most elevated level.

The intricate design of BERES 10 draws inspiration from Edo Kiriko, a traditional Japanese glass-cutting art established in 1834 and designated a National Traditional Craft of Japan. The disciplined geometry, deep colors, and intricate two-tone overlay techniques of Edo Kiriko mirror Honma’s own philosophy—where technical excellence and refined beauty coexist.

The timeless beauty of Edo Kiriko glasses inspired master Takumi craftsmen, whose pursuit of perfection defines Honma’s legacy. The glass-cutting discipline combines a unique blend of transparency, dimension, and metallic elegance that shifts with the light in exquisite detail. The BERES 10 woods feature striking laser-cut patterns on the clubheads, creating a modern interpretation of glass-cutting techniques that are executed with a level of precision found only in the world’s most exclusive creations. These are not decorative gestures; they are signatures of mastery.

Yet BERES 10 is defined as much by performance as by appearance. Advanced engineering is seamlessly integrated to deliver effortless clubhead speed, powerful distance, and a penetrating, remarkably stable ball flight. Advanced materials and hand-finished construction work together to produce efficient ball flight and reliable performance. The result is a set that performs with authority while preserving the elegance expected at this level. (3-Star woods feature a champagne gold sole; 4 Star and 5 Star grade woods have a gold sole.)

BERES 10 Driver

At the heart of the BERES 10 Driver is the Pure Speed Engine, a suite of four advanced technologies engineered to deliver maximum acceleration and efficiency at impact. The Full Titanium Frame features an ultra-thin, high-rigidity crown and body that optimize head stability and energy transfer, while the Rear Weight Balancer incorporates a 9-gram (men’s model) high-density sole weight to lower the center of gravity for higher launch and increased forgiveness. A forged Cup Face Design expands the high-speed zone across the entire clubface, and the Variable Thickness Face utilizes an optimized flex pattern to minimize ball-speed loss on off-center strikes. Together, these innovations produce exceptional ball speed, high MOI, and a stable, powerful launch – engineered for one purpose: pure speed.

The women’s BERES 10 Driver features a Full Titanium Frame, Casting Cup Face, and 4-gram Rear Weight Balancer to achieve high ball speed, MOI, and forgiveness. (Men’s and Women’s Driver Pricing: 3 Star $1,200, 4 Star $2,000, and 5 Star $5,000)

BERES 10 Fairway Wood & Hybrids

BERES 10 performance extends far beyond the driver, with Pure Speed engineered throughout the Fairway Woods and Hybrids. Each club features Cup Face construction, a Rear Weight Balancer with loft-specific weighting, and a low center of gravity design to promote naturally high launch, paired with high-strength faces for explosive ball speed. The result is aggressive long-game performance that delivers exceptional forgiveness and extended carry from every position on the course. The women’s Rear Weight Balancer features a 4-gram aluminum weight. (Men’s and Women’s 3 Star Fairway $800/Utility $600, 4 Star Fairway $1,500/Utility $1,400, and 5 Star Fairway $5,000/Utility $5,000)

BERES 10 Irons

Forged by master craftsmen, BERES 10 Irons unite refined beauty with powerful distance performance. The new Speed Core Face integrates a 3D L-Cup Face Structure that expands the high-velocity zone across the entire face and maintains ball speed on off-center hits, while a 3D Variable Thickness Design optimizes energy transfer efficiency and feel at impact. An intricately crafted 3D Emblem Structure suppresses unwanted vibration while elevating the club’s premium aesthetics. A low-and-deep center of gravity promotes higher launch and steeper landing angles to help hold greens, and lightweight shafts featuring an advanced 5-axis hybrid metal mesh construction with TORAYCA® T1100G carbon fiber deliver improved impact efficiency, higher ball speed, and greater distance.

The Men’s and Women’s BERES 10 Iron sets are distinguishable in composition. The men’s collection is a forged S25C carbon steel, and the women’s product offering is a body of 17-4 stainless steel casting. (Men’s and Women’s 3 Star $550/each, 4 Star $1,350/each, and 5 Star $5,000/each)

LEADING GOLF SHAFT TECHNOLOGY – ARMRQ FLIGHT

HONMA’s proprietary golf shaft technology pushes the limits of performance with advanced carbon composites and high-grade metals. Variations based on design and material differences. Higher grades deliver greater precision and consistency — for longer, straighter shots.

★★★3S – The high-elasticity TORAYCA® M40X, which pursues the ultimate in both fiber strength and elastic modulus, provides superior playing performance that efficiently accelerates head speed without waste, while at the same time suppressing torque and improving stability.

★★★★4S – The kick point is designed closer to the tip to further improve club head speed. At the same time, flexing and torque are further suppressed, increasing initial speed and stability.

★★★★★5S – From the 4S grade, the bias layer has been further strengthened to generate strong torsional return power. This is an ultra-premium shaft that achieves the ultimate flight and stability.

The BERES 10 collection is available in Men’s and Women’s 3 Star, 4 Star, and 5 Star series. Standard iron sets include 7-10, SW for ladies, and 5-11, AW, SW for men. Visit us.honmagolf.com for more information.

Honma Golf: Taylor Hull – Sales Director, North America email: taylorhull@honmagolf.com

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR

Cutalong at Tributer Resort Receives Multiple Awards in Golf Inc’s Golden Fork Competition

Kevin Frisch February 4, 2026

Golf News

Mineral, VA — Cutalong at Tributer Resort, a Reef Capital Partners development along the shores of beautiful Lake Anna, in Central Virginia, has received multiple awards in Golf Inc’s 2026 Golden Fork Competition. The honor highlights Coopers Bar & Restaurant, which placed 3^rd in both the New Private F&B Facility and Food Programming categories.

Coopers, which was the only F&B facility to be honored in two categories, made its debut alongside the opening of the new clubhouse, marking a defining milestone in the evolution of the luxury destination golf development – Cutalong at Tributer Resort. As the first completed amenity, the clubhouse—anchored by Coopers—sets the tone for the community, blending panoramic golf-course views with thoughtfully designed gathering spaces where members and resort guests come together to create memorable experiences.

“Having Cutalong at Tributer Resort recognized by Golf Inc. as part of the Golden Fork Awards is a tremendous honor for the club, our members, and team,” said Ian Sikes, General Manager at Cutalong at Tributer Resort. “The award is a testament to the vision of our F&B team, the dedication to hospitality and service displayed daily by Cutalong’s staff, and the support from club membership.”

Coopers’ food and beverage program is a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage, built around seasonality. Menus highlight fresh seafood and indigenous, pasture-raised meats, with a commitment to sourcing that sets the club apart — including receiving daily deliveries of premium fresh seafood.

One Golf Inc. judge said, “Fresh regional seafood, heritage meats, seasonal menus, and crafted cocktails show a consistent emphasis on technique and ingredient integrity.”

The wine program, curated by a Master Sommelier alongside a Level 2 expert, also offers a thoughtful balance of boutique producers and iconic Napa Valley selections. A seasonally rotating cocktail menu complements the experience, reimagining timeless recipes with modern techniques and creative flair.

Central to the culinary identity is an in-house bakery, where fresh breads, pastries and desserts are crafted daily from scratch using time-honored methods and premium ingredients. Together, the program delivers a refined, yet welcoming dining experience rooted in flavor and artistry.

“Coopers has quickly become a defining part of the Cutalong Tributer member experience because it offers far more than exceptional food; it fosters genuine connection and community,” said Dave Medina, Director of Food and Beverage at Cutalong Tributer Resort. “From weekend brunches and curated Chef’s Table dinners to Master Sommelier–guided wine tastings and enhanced happy hours, every experience is thoughtfully designed with our members in mind. Our chef-driven menus, creative programming, and partnerships with local producers like Lost Barrel Brewery reflect an innovative, member-first spirit. That same creativity led to our custom draft beer, The Cut Lager, a 2025 Virginia Bronze Medal winner. At Coopers, members don’t just dine. They connect, celebrate, and feel at home.”

The Golf Inc. Golden Fork Awards, which were recently announced in the January/February 2026 issue, once again celebrate the excellence in golf club food-and-beverage design and programming, honoring the industry’s most innovative culinary experiences worldwide. Judges evaluated creativity, menu design, signature dishes and drinks, use of fresh and local ingredients, and overall guest experience.

As Golf Inc. noted in announcing this year’s winners, “From traditional American fare to a diverse array of international offerings, this year’s winners display a robust assortment of innovative menus and beautiful dining spaces.”

With the opening of the award-winning Coopers and the clubhouse, Reef Capital Partners continues to expand offerings, further establishing the resort as one of the nation’s most desirable destination golf communities. Whether playing a round on the nationally acclaimed golf course, enjoying the amenities, or relaxing lakeside, Cutalong at Tributer Resort provides an exceptional blend of leisure, luxury, and community.

For more information about Cutalong at Tributer Resort, please visit Tributer.com.

About Reef Capital Partners:

Reef Capital Partners is a vertically integrated real estate investment, development, and operations firm dedicated to enhancing communities through transformative and impactful projects across North America. Reef creates a sense of belonging to something extraordinary by delivering unforgettable experiences that endure for generations.

Signature developments include Black Desert Resort, a 600-acre luxury destination in Greater Zion featuring a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, curated residences, and premier events like PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour tournaments, and Marcella Club, home to exclusive communities with a Tiger Woods-designed championship golf course and world-class amenities. Reef’s portfolio also includes Red Mountain Resort, Coco Palms Resort, Main and Sky, Sweetens Cove, Cutalong at Tributer Resort, and Boardwalk Hotel at Lake Anna, showcasing the firm’s commitment to innovative design, sustainability, and community impact.

By aligning investment expertise with development vision, Reef Capital Partners is reshaping the future of luxury living, hospitality, and recreation. Learn more at www.reefcp.com.

Media Contacts: Cutalong-Tributer Resort – Joe Walsh, Project Director, Reef email: joe.walsh@reefcp.com

Press release by: Kevin Frisch PR