Hey - Golfers ⛳️

We are experiencing a time when presidential candidates are debating over each other’s golf handicaps. In this edition, we will be discussing this situation as well as golf course design and this week’s Green Side Guide golf destination. Subscribe for more weekly golf news, analytics, and destinations.

🎨 The Art of Golf Course Design

Have you ever wondered why there is a bunker or a water hazard placed where it is on a golf course?

I know I have, and the answer is that those traps and hazards were deliberately placed by a golf course designer. A designer's job is to create a layout that is both entertaining and somewhat challenging.

The Master Designer: Jack Nicklaus

Jack Nicklaus is the most famous golf course designer. He has designed over 410 courses, many of which have been used in professional-level play. This is impressive, considering there are around 38,000 courses worldwide.

Starting with the Land

A great design begins with the land the course is built on. Utilizing the natural features of the property is crucial, as it adds unique challenges for golfers.

The Importance of Green Design

Next comes the design of the greens. Different slopes can affect how shots react upon landing, making this a critical aspect of course design.

Keeping it Entertaining

Finally, it’s essential to keep the course entertaining. Avoid placing holes that are too similar next to each other. For instance, you wouldn't want four long par 4s in a row. This variation sets the tempo for the golfer and influences how they perceive the course.

The Essential Role of Good Design

Designing courses is an art, and Jack Nicklaus does it best. A poorly designed course can deter golfers, making a good design essential for any course.

✈️ Green Side Guide Destination: Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail 

All golfers dream of playing the nicest courses in the world. So it is time for you to check out the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail! Spanning across Alabama, it features 26 spectacular courses designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr. Whether you're an avid golfer or a golf course enthusiast, there's something here for everyone.

Picture this: playing on championship courses with stunning landscapes all around you. It's not just about golf – it's about the whole experience. After a great day on the course, you can relax at one of the luxurious clubhouses with delicious food and true Southern hospitality.

Plus, there are plenty of fantastic places to stay nearby. From cozy bed-and-breakfasts to top-notch hotels, you'll find the perfect spot to rest up for another day of golf. Check out RTJ Golf Trail Packages for booking your golf and stay!

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your clubs and head to Alabama for the ultimate golf experience! 

Websites:

• Book your golf and stay: RTJ Golf Trail Packages

• Find accommodations: Alabama Tourism Department

• Explore more about the trail: RTJ Golf Trail

📝 Big Stories from the Rocket Mortgage Classic

There were many big stories at the Rocket Mortgage Classic last week, including 15-year-old Miles Russell competing in the tournament. Miles shot even par but ultimately fell short of Cam Davis, who shot 18-under.

🇺🇸 Presidential Golf Beef: Trump vs. Biden

One of the biggest golf stories this week was the presidential golf beef between Donald Trump and Joe Biden. During their debate last week, they argued over who was the better golfer—something you wouldn't expect in a presidential debate!

Proposed Long Drive Challenge

The two even proposed a long-drive competition, which I think would be pure entertainment to watch. Bryson DeChambeau also suggested hosting a match between them on his YouTube channel.

Would You Watch?

Would you like to see this happen? I know it’s very unlikely, but I enjoy highlighting these stories because they’re great for the game of golf.

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