http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/26 In the News YWP 13.00.05 http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/92 Memphis Golf Association - 2011 MGA Mid-Amateur Championship Results Powered by BlueGolf Dates: Oct 15 - Oct 16 Course: Chickasaw Country Club (Memphis, TN) Par and Total Yardage By Division Chickasaw Country Club(Par: 72 Distance: 6720) ============================================================ RECAP ============================================================ 2011 MGA Mid-Amateur Championship Chickasaw Country Club (both days) Mike Albonetti of Windyke Country Club won his first Memphis Golf Association individual title after firing rounds of 72-70--142 at Chickasaw Country Club. He won by four strokes over Kevin Hayes (73-73--146) and Rob Tayloe (72-74--146). ============================================================ Results for contest Overall Results: ============================================================ 1 Mike Albonetti 72-70--142 -2 T2 Kevin Hayes 73-73--146 +2 T2 Rob Tayloe 72-74--146 +2 T4 Ben Fisher 74-73--147 +3 T4 Justin Gosa 73-74--147 +3 6 Erin McDonald 72-76--148 +4 T7 Keith Schmitt 75-74--149 +5 T7 Danny Dennis 74-75--149 +5 T7 Bill Garner 72-77--149 +5 T10 James Ray 77-73--150 +6 T10 Larry DuPree 75-75--150 +6 12 Kirk Bailey 79-73--152 +8 T13 Fred McCord 78-75--153 +9 T13 Spence Wilson Jr 76-77--153 +9 T13 Dan Barton 75-78--153 +9 T16 Randy Songstad 79-75--154 +10 T16 Gary Simpson 75-79--154 +10 T16 Charles Slatery 74-80--154 +10 T19 Michael Rosamond 79-76--155 +11 T19 Benjamin Barksdale 76-79--155 +11 21 Kendrick Jones 80-78--158 +14 T22 Jason Shelby 84-75--159 +15 T22 Kevin Connolly 81-78--159 +15 T22 Michael Kelfer 76-83--159 +15 25 Matthew Mitchell 80-81--161 +17 T26 Chris Badciong 84-78--162 +18 T26 Bruce Stein 83-79--162 +18 28 Lance Province 83-82--165 +21 T29 Thomas Mayberry 84-82--166 +22 T29 Jason Saenger 80-86--166 +22 31 Matthew Wages 82-85--167 +23 T32 Steve Phillips 84-84--168 +24 T32 Kevin Herzke 77-91--168 +24 34 Kevin Ratzlaff 86-83--169 +25 T35 Ed Williamson 88-82--170 +26 T35 Wesley Crump 84-86--170 +26 T35 Thomas Graham 83-87--170 +26 T38 Bill Shirley 87-84--171 +27 T38 Mitch Mrdja 83-88--171 +27 40 Chad Spencer 84-89--173 +29 41 Joel Bailey 93-85--178 +34 42 Kevin Caraway 90-94--184 +40 DID NOT FINISH WD Bill Edwards +5 WD Scott Womack +6 WD West Newman WD Alex Brown The contents of this email may not be used for commercial purposes without the express written consent of Memphis Golf Association 2011 and BlueGolf, LLC. Copyright (c) 2000-2011 by BlueGolf, LLC. All Rights Reserved Sun, 16 Oct 2011 18:38:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/91 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tennessee Golf Association WATERS PREVAILS IN PLAYOFF; NANCARROW CAPTURES SUPER SENIOR (Chattanooga) With the weather co-operating, the players did the same which produced a dramatic ending to the 41st Annual Senior Amateur Championship, which was contested at Council Fire GC. While the Super Senior division was won outright, the Championship division was settled by a playoff. Ron Waters (Alcoa) captured the Championship division, winning with a par on the third playoff hole. Waters’ place in the playoff wasn’t secured until he made an eagle on the last hole of regulation. That eagle gave Waters a round of one under par 70 to finish the 54 holes at 3 under par 213. Overnight leader Doug Harris (Franklin) closed with a 2 over par 74 to find himself tied with Waters in the playoff. The Senior Amateur is Waters, the coach of the Maryville Men’s Golf team, first state title in his first try as a senior. Jim Nancarrow (Loudon) played consistent golf over the three days and the result was a victory in the Super Senior division. Nancarrow shot a round of 3 over par 75 to finish the championship at 7 over par 223. Finishing in a tie for second were Bill Crawford (Nashville) and Ron Bargatze (Whitehouse), two shots back of the champion. The 41st Annual Tennessee Senior Amateur Championship is one of fifteen that the Tennessee Golf Association conducts on an annual basis. For more information on the Tennessee Senior Amateur Championship, please visit www.tnsenioram.com or for more information on the Tennessee Golf Association, please visit us at www.golfhousetennessee.com/tga. Final round results follow… 41st Annual Tennessee Senior Amateur Championship Council Fire Golf Club Chattanooga, Tenn. Championship Ron Waters, Alcoa, Tenn. - 75-67-71--213 Doug Harris, Franklin, Tenn. - 69-70-74--213 Buzz Fly, Memphis, Tenn. - 72-70-73--215 Larry Dupree, Germantown, Tenn. - 74-71-71--216 Steve Golliher, Knoxville, Tenn. - 72-70-74--216 Garry Siddons, Knoxville, Tenn. - 71-73-74--218 Bob Clark, Cordova, Tenn. - 74-75-70--219 Tom Baird, Signal Mountain, Tenn. - 72-74-74--220 Jim Brown, Loudon, Tenn. - 70-74-76--220 Neil Spitalny, Chattanooga, Tenn. - 73-76-73--222 Dennis Vaughn, Germantown, Tenn. - 74-72-76--222 Tim Dinwiddie, Afton, Tenn. - 79-71-73--223 Bill Argabrite, Kingsport, Tenn. - 76-74-73--223 Mike Carroll, Knoxville, Tenn. - 72-74-77--223 Rick Mixon, Knoxville, Tenn. - 77-69-77--223 Scotty Felker, Smyrna, Tenn. - 72-71-80--223 Dan Schorsten, Hendersonville, Tenn. - 72-77-75--224 Harry Hill, Chattanooga, Tenn. - 74-76-75--225 Larry McGill, Chattanooga, Tenn. - 72-75-78--225 Wes Gilliland, Hixson, Tenn. - 69-79-77--225 Spencer Smith, Greeneville, Tenn. - 75-75-76--226 Gene Lomax, Gallatin, Tenn. - 75-75-77--227 Randall Yoder, Chattanooga, Tenn. - 75-75-78--228 George Lloyd, South Pittsburg, Tenn. - 79-73-77--229 William Meadows, Burns, Tenn. - 74-74-82--230 Steven Cisco, Lebanon, Tenn. - 76-75-80--231 Sam Bounds, Corryton, Tenn. - 78-74-80--232 Doug Ryerson, Mt. Juliet, Tenn. - 72-80-82--234 James Felker, Franklin, Tenn. - 76-77-81--234 Gary Baldwin, Cleveland, Tenn. - 74-78-82--234 Tim Thompson, Memphis, Tenn. - 75-77-WD--WD Super Senior Jim Nancarrow, Loudon, Tenn. - 76-72-75--223 Ron Bargatze, Whitehouse, Tenn. - 76-77-72--225 Bill Crawford, Nashville, Tenn. - 76-75-74--225 Don Midgett, Tullahoma, Tenn. - 77-79-73--229 Gary Pierce, Franklin, Tenn. - 74-79-77--230 Jeremy Dick, Farragut, Tenn. - 75-76-79--230 Bill Love, Knoxville, Tenn. - 74-74-82--230 Rock Saraceni, Knoxville, Tenn. - 76-75-80--231 Jack Garner, Athens, Tenn. - 79-75-79--233 Jamie Sevier, Franklin, Tenn. - 78-77-78--233 Ronnie Law, Chattanooga, Tenn. - 76-82-76--234 Wayne Crook, Lebanon, Tenn. - 81-78-76--235 Ron Kilgore, Knoxville, Tenn. - 80-79-77--236 Don Rogers, Morristown, Tenn. - 80-80-77--237 Bill Orellana, Brentwood, Tenn. - 83-75-79--237 Craig Goldate, Germantown, Tenn. - 81-76-81--238 Larry Denney, Loudon, Tenn. - 81-79-80--240 Tommy Shearon Jr, Clarksville, Tenn. - 79-80-82--241 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 23:30:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/90 Memphis Golf Association - 2011 MGA Amateur Championship Results - Powered by BlueGolf Click here for complete tournament results Dates: Aug 9 - Aug 11 Courses: Ridgeway Country Club(Memphis, TN), Colonial Country Club - South Course(Cordova, TN), Windyke Country Club - East(Memphis, TN) Par and Total Yardage By Division Ridgeway Country Club(Par: 71 Distance: 7013) Windyke Country Club - East(Par: 72 Distance: 7214) Colonial Country Club - South Course(Par: 72 Distance: 7334) ============================================================ RECAP ============================================================ Fly Holds On For MGA Amateur Win Jonathan Fly struggled to a final round 76 at Colonial Country Club's South Course but held on for a one stroke victory in the MGA Amateur over Bobby Hudson, who started the day six strokes off the lead. Hudson's 71, the low round of the day, earned him his fourth runner-up finish out of the last five MGA Amateur Championships. Fly followed a first round 69 at Ridgeway Country Club with a second round 68 at Windyke Country Club's East course. His final round 76 left him with a 2 under par 213 total for the championship. Hudson (70-73-71--214) moved into second over Ben Fisher (72-70-78--220). ============================================================ Results for contest Overall Results: ============================================================ 1 Jonathan Fly 69-68-76--213 -2 2 Bobby Hudson 70-73-71--214 -1 3 Ben Fisher 72-70-78--220 +5 4 Matthew Mitchell 75-80-72--227 +12 5 Chad Tidwell 76-71-83--230 +15 6 Michael Rosamond 76-74-81--231 +16 T7 Chase Weldon 76-79-77--232 +17 T7 Alex Brown 75-75-82--232 +17 T9 Kendrick Jones 77-78-78--233 +18 T9 Keith Schmitt 78-79-76--233 +18 11 Rush Patterson 77-80-78--235 +20 12 Michael Collie 82-75-79--236 +21 T13 Bob Adams 83-74-81--238 +23 T13 Thomas Graham 75-81-82--238 +23 T13 Steve Thielemier 75-74-89--238 +23 16 Chris Badciong 78-84-77--239 +24 17 Randy Songstad 79-84-77--240 +25 18 Mitch Mrdja 78-83-85--246 +31 19 West Newman 78-84-87--249 +34 20 Shad Williams 80-86-85--251 +36 21 Kevin Ratzlaff 84-81-88--253 +38 22 Scott Emerson 81-89-89--259 +44 23 Matthew Newman 81-88-93--262 +47 T24 Ed Williamson 89-86-88--263 +48 T24 Kevin Connolly 87-84-92--263 +48 26 Todd Majors 82-91-94--267 +52 27 Bailey Lowery 88-89-92--269 +54 28 Powers Manley 92-100-85--277 +62 29 Kevin Herzke 95-88-99--282 +67 30 Jay Phebus 99-92-99--290 +75 31 Martin Lyle 95-100-112--307 +92 DID NOT FINISH WD Derek Denman +13 DQ Larry DuPree +21 DQ Jonathan Sandor +38 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 23:18:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/89 Memphis Golf Association - 2011 MGA Amateur Championship Results - Powered by BlueGolf Click here for complete tournament results Dates: Aug 9 - Aug 11 Courses: Ridgeway Country Club(Memphis, TN), Colonial Country Club - South Course(Cordova, TN), Windyke Country Club - East(Memphis, TN) Par and Total Yardage By Division Ridgeway Country Club(Par: 71 Distance: 7013) Windyke Country Club - East(Par: 72 Distance: 7214) Colonial Country Club - South Course(Par: 72 Distance: 7334) ============================================================ RECAP ============================================================ Jonathan Fly Extends Lead in MGA Amateur Championship Defending champion, Jonathan Fly (69-68--137) extended his lead to five strokes heading into the final round of the MGA Amateur Championship at Colonial Country Club. Ben Fisher (72-70--142) moved into second place, while Bobby Hudson (70-73--143) is alone in third place. ============================================================ Results for contest Overall Results: ============================================================ 1 Jonathan Fly 69-68--137 -6 2 Ben Fisher 72-70--142 -1 3 Bobby Hudson 70-73--143 E 4 Chad Tidwell 76-71--147 +4 5 Steve Thielemier 75-74--149 +6 T6 Alex Brown 75-75--150 +7 T6 Michael Rosamond 76-74--150 +7 8 Thomas Graham 73-81--154 +11 T9 Matthew Mitchell 75-80--155 +12 T9 Chase Weldon 76-79--155 +12 T9 Kendrick Jones 77-78--155 +12 T12 Keith Schmitt 78-79--157 +14 T12 Michael Collie 82-75--157 +14 T12 Rush Patterson 77-80--157 +14 T12 Bob Adams 83-74--157 +14 T12 Larry DuPree 75-82--157 +14 17 Jonathan Sandor 83-77--160 +17 18 Mitch Mrdja 78-83--161 +18 T19 Chris Badciong 78-84--162 +19 T19 West Newman 78-84--162 +19 21 Randy Songstad 79-84--163 +20 22 Kevin Ratzlaff 84-81--165 +22 23 Shad Williams 80-86--166 +23 24 Matthew Newman 81-88--169 +26 25 Scott Emerson 81-89--170 +27 26 Kevin Connolly 87-84--171 +28 27 Todd Majors 82-91--173 +30 28 Ed Williamson 89-86--175 +32 29 Bailey Lowery 88-89--177 +34 30 Kevin Herzke 95-88--183 +40 31 Jay Phebus 99-92--191 +48 32 Powers Manley 92-100--192 +49 33 Martin Lyle 95-100--195 +52 DID NOT FINISH WD Derek Denman +13 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 01:34:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/88 Memphis Golf Association - 2011 MGA Amateur Championship Results - Powered by BlueGolf Click here for complete tournament results Dates: Aug 9 - Aug 11 Courses: Ridgeway Country Club(Memphis, TN), Colonial Country Club - South Course(Cordova, TN), Windyke Country Club - East(Memphis, TN) Par and Total Yardage By Division Ridgeway Country Club(Par: 71 Distance: 7013) Windyke Country Club - East(Par: 72 Distance: 7214) Colonial Country Club - South Course(Par: 72 Distance: 7334) ============================================================ RECAP ============================================================ Defending Champion Jonathan Fly of Spring Creek Ranch has the early lead in the 2011 MGA Amateur Championship after opening with a two under par 69 at Ridgeway Country Club. He leads last week's winner of the TGA State Amateur Championship, Bobby Hudson of Memphis Country Club, by one stroke. Hudson's round of 70 included two eagles, the second coming on a dramatic pitch-in from short of the 18th green. Ben Fisher of Windyke Country Club (72) is alone in third place. Round two is at Windyke Country Club's East Course and the final round on Thursday will be held at Colonial Country Club's South Course. ============================================================ Results for contest Overall Results: ============================================================ 1 Jonathan Fly 34-35--69 -2 2 Bobby Hudson 36-34--70 -1 3 Ben Fisher 34-38--72 +1 4 Thomas Graham 36-37--73 +2 T5 Matthew Mitchell 37-38--75 +4 T5 Alex Brown 38-37--75 +4 T5 Steve Thielemier 38-37--75 +4 T5 Larry DuPree 38-37--75 +4 T9 Chase Weldon 35-41--76 +5 T9 Chad Tidwell 37-39--76 +5 T9 Michael Rosamond 36-40--76 +5 T12 Kendrick Jones 38-39--77 +6 T12 Rush Patterson 38-39--77 +6 T14 Keith Schmitt 41-37--78 +7 T14 Chris Badciong 41-37--78 +7 T14 West Newman 38-40--78 +7 T14 Mitch Mrdja 40-38--78 +7 18 Randy Songstad 37-42--79 +8 19 Shad Williams 39-41--80 +9 T20 Scott Emerson 42-39--81 +10 T20 Matthew Newman 38-43--81 +10 T22 Michael Collie 47-35--82 +11 T22 Todd Majors 39-43--82 +11 T24 Jonathan Sandor 40-43--83 +12 T24 Bob Adams 42-41--83 +12 T26 Kevin Ratzlaff 40-44--84 +13 T26 Derek Denman 41-43--84 +13 28 Kevin Connolly 44-43--87 +16 29 Bailey Lowery 45-43--88 +17 30 Ed Williamson 45-44--89 +18 31 Powers Manley 46-46--92 +21 T32 Martin Lyle 47-48--95 +24 T32 Kevin Herzke 49-46--95 +24 34 Jay Phebus 49-50--99 +28 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 20:34:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/87 US Amateur Local Qualifier Results 08/08/11 MEMPHIS, TENN. - TPC SOUTHWIND Jonathan Fly - MEMPHIS, TENN. 135 Stephan Jaeger - GERMANY 137 Steve Lee - GALLATIN, TENN. 140 A - John Burch - NASHVILLE, TENN. 142 A - Anthony Paolucci - RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIF. 142 Click here for COMPLETE RESULTS Mon, 08 Aug 2011 20:21:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/86 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE From the Tennessee Golf Association August 5, 2011 BOBBY HUDSON CAPTURES WEATHER SHORTENED 96TH ANNUAL TENNESSEE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP (Cordova, TN) Lightning and storms delayed the final round of the 96th Annual Tennessee Amateur Championship which was being conducted at Colonial Country Club's South Course. Play was suspended at 10:26 a.m. CDT and never resumed. The final round was ultimately cancelled at 3:30 p.m. CDT and third round leader Bobby Hudson was declared the champion. Hudson becomes the thirteenth player to win multiple Tennessee Amateur Championships as he also won the 2007 event at Belle Meade Country Club. The Tennessee Amateur Championship is one of fifteen state championships that the Tennessee Golf Association conducts on an annual basis. For more information on the Tennessee Golf Association visit us online at www.golfhousetennessee.com/tga or for more information on the Tennessee Amateur Championship including updated results log onto www.tnamateur.com. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 20:14:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/85 Tennessee Golf Association FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 3, 2011 BRETT BARRY LEADS AFTER SECOND ROUND OF TENNESSEE AMATEUR (Cordova, TN) First round co-leader Brett Barry fired a second round 71 (1-under-par) to finish at 140 (4-under-par) and take sole lead after two rounds at the 96th Annual Tennessee Amateur Championship which is being conducted on Colonial Country Club’s South Course in Cordova, TN. For the two rounds Barry has amassed a total of thirteen birdies on the extremely challenging course. One shot back of Barry is Craig Smith who followed up his opening round 70 with 71 (1-under-par) to finish at 141. Smith made a move on the front nine today with two birdies and an eagle before a bogey on the par-4 eighth hole. Making a big move today was David Apperson, the 1986 Tennessee Amateur Champion, who fired a 71 (1-under-par) today to finish at 145 and is in solo third place. The 7,334-yard South Course at Colonial Country Club is well known as being one of the most difficult and challenging golf courses in Tennessee which proved to be the case for the first two rounds as the average score for the first two days was 79.56. The South Course, which was designed by Joe Finger, opened in 1972 hosted the Danny Thomas Classic (now St. Jude Classic) until 1988 when the tournament moved to its current location at TPC Southwind. The South Course is also famous for two events which happened in 1977. First, President Gerald Ford made a hole-in-one on the par-3 fifth hole during Wednesday’s Pro-Am and two days later Al Geiberger shot an unbelievable 59 (13-under-par) during the second round of the that year’s event. The Tennessee Amateur Championship is one of fifteen state championships that the Tennessee Golf Association conducts on an annual basis. For more information on the Tennessee Golf Association visit us online at www.golfhousetennessee.com/tga. For RESULTS log onto www.tnamateur.com. Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:08:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/84 Sat, 30 Jul 2011 20:56:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/83 Jonathan Fly shoots 67-73-69-209 to become the 2011 C-USA Men's Individual Champion at Texarkana Country Club, and helps his University of Memphis team to a Second Place finish in the conference tournament. For complete results of the Individual Leaderboard CLICK HERE. For complete results of the Team Leaderboard CLICK HERE. Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:11:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/82 On Easter Sunday, Nashville TN native Brandt Snedeker added a second PGA TOUR win to his 2007 rookie-year victory at the Wyndham Championship. On the third playoff hole pitted against Luke Donald, Snedeker took the title at The Heritage. For full coverage of the event and the full leaderboard CLICK HERE. Sun, 24 Apr 2011 19:20:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/81 Matt Cooper took Medalist honors at Spring Creek Ranch, site for the Memphis area TN State Open Qualifying. Despite windy conditions, Cooper finished with a 73, 1 over par to best the field. Alex Brown turned in a 76, 3 strokes behind Cooper, to capture the second qualifying spot, while Austin Jackson carded a 79 for the third spot. The remaining four qualifying spots were filled as follows: 4th - Chris Houston (80); T-5th Randy Songstad (82) and Chris Badciong (82); 7th - Carlson Cox IV (83). Carlson Cox won the final spot in a three-way play-off with Jeffrey Johnson, who was eliminated on the first playoff hole, and Tyler Smith, who was eliminated on the second hole. For the complete results CLICK HERE. Thu, 21 Apr 2011 18:04:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/80 Mason Rudolph Obituary April 18, 2011 Mason Rudolph 1934 - 2011 Edgar Mason Rudolph passed away on Monday, April 18, 2011 at the age of 76. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carol Griffin Rudolph; sons, Edgar Mason Rudolph, Jr., Griffin Hill Rudolph; and six grandchildren, Charles Hunter Rudolph, John Myers Rudolph, Griffin Hill Rudolph, Jr., Mary Rodgers Rudolph, William Mason Rudolph and James Goodman Rudolph. He is preceded in death by his parents Susan Mason Rudolph, Jacob Courtnay Rudolph, Sr.; brother, Jacob Courtnay Rudolph, Jr.; and son, Craig Goodman Rudolph. Rudolph grew up in Clarksville, TN. He was an outstanding young athlete at Clarksville High School and President of the Student Body. After graduating from CHS, he attended Memphis State University on a golf scholarship. His golf career began at the young age of 13 when he won the Clarksville Country Club Championship. This was the beginning of a long and distinguished golf career. Rudolph won the USGA Junior Championship in 1950 and the Tennessee State Amateur and State Open in 1956, also claiming an additional five State Open titles (1956, 59, 63, 64, 66, & 72). Rudolph is the youngest player (sixteen years and six days) ever to qualify to play in the U.S. Open, held at Merion Golf Club in 1950. He was a member of the 1957 Walker Cup team and 1971 Ryder Cup teams. He won five PGA Tour titles and was 3rd in the 1973 PGA Championship, and 4th in the 1965 Masters and 8th in the 1966 U.S. Open. He won the Western Amateur in 1956 and the All Armed Forces Service Championship in 1958. Rudolph joined the PGA Tour in 1959 and was Rookie of the Year in 1960. He won the 1968 Tennessee PGA Section Championship. Mason was inducted as a Charter Member of the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame in 1990. On the PGA Tour, his streak of finishing in the money in 52 straight events is a remarkable accomplishment. He also played in 105 straight tournaments in the 1960's without ever hitting a ball out of bounds. Mason was inducted as a charter member of the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame in 1990. Sports Illustrated named him one of the top 25 athletes of the century in the State of TN. After playing on the Senior PGA Tour, Rudolph worked as the Director of Instruction at Gaylord Springs Golf Links. He became the Golf Coach for Vanderbilt University and was instrumental in grooming both the men's and women's golf programs to be contenders in the South Eastern Conference, including a 2004 SEC Championship for the ladies' golf team. He was able to attract nationally recognized talent to the program including PGA Tour player and local favorite, Brandt Snedeker. Upon his retirement, Vanderbilt University dedicated its annual collegiate golf tournaments, naming them the Mason Rudolph Championships. In his hometown of Clarksville a nine hole city course bears his name. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20th at First Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN with a Memorial Reception at the Golf House of Tennessee (400 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN) immediately following the service. Visitation will be at McReynolds Nave Larson Funeral Home in Clarksville, TN on Thursday, April 21st at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at 11:30 at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Tennessee Junior Golf, Golf House of Tennessee, 400 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37069, and Hospice of West Alabama, 3851 Loop Road, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35404. www.hospiceofwestalabama.org Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/79 Robert Garrigus on the practice green at TPC Southwind When Robert Garrigus rolled in his short putt to seal the victory in the Children’s Miracle Network Classic in Orlando last November, he completed a journey that he believes started in Memphis, Tenn. “I didn’t want Memphis to define my career,” said the affable PGA TOUR pro referring to the final-hole, triple-bogie 7 that ultimately cost him the FedEx St. Jude Classic title. “In all actuality Memphis started my career,” he explained. “If Memphis didn’t happen, then Disney wouldn’t have happened - that’s a fact.” And when Garrigus speaks of things that so many other pros make sound cliche, you know he means it with every fiber of his being. Garrigus was in town today and at TPC Southwind for the FedEx St. Jude Classic media day. It was an interesting twist on a day that typically features the defending champion and includes multiple interviews regarding how that player is looking forward to coming back to town to try and repeat as champion. But the FESJC defending champion is Lee Westwood, who ultimately survived a playoff over Garrigus and Robert Karlsson to claim the title last year, and Westwood is officially a European Tour player who only competes in the United States on a limited basis. That makes scheduling an appearance in the spring for a media day a virtual impossibility. Westwood was willing to make himself available to the media in Memphis via whatever technology was deemed the best fit, but someone had a more creative idea. The intent was for Garrigus to recreate his attempt to complete the 18th hole at TPC Southwind - hopefully this time in less than 7 strokes. It would have been entertaining to watch, but as the game of golf goes there would be no such attempt. Mother Nature wouldn’t allow it as threatening storms moved into the Memphis area in advance of the media day tip-off. But Garrigus was entertaining none the less. “I only brought three clubs,” he told the crowd of assembled media members, “a 5 iron, a wedge and a putter. I was going to hit 5 iron off the tee, then wedge, wedge, to the green, two-putt and go home.” Garrigus (L) with FESJC General Chairman, Jack Sammons The fact that Garrigus wanted to be in Memphis today, and joke about an event that had to be extremely painful, speaks volumes about the type of gentleman he is. In fact, Jack Sammons, who serves as the tournament’s General Chairman, was so moved by Garrigus’ attitude towards the loss last year and his passion for doing the right things for the kid’s of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, that he used his considerable “juice” with the Memphis City Council and presented Garrigus with a formal proclamation declaring today “Robert Garrigus Day”. With that came a key to the city and, in a humorous twist, a key to the 18th hole at TPC Southwind as well. Garrigus picked up in 2011 where he left off last year, ultimately reaching a playoff with Jonathan Byrd, yet losing, in the season-opening Hyundai Tournament of Champions in January. The victory would have secured him a spot in the Masters for the first time, but as is the case with Garrigus, this just adds to the motivation. “I thought the win at Disney got me into the Masters,” he said, “but I wasn’t 100% sure.” After asking around that afternoon he would learn that a win in a Fall Series event doesn’t earn an automatic invitation to Augusta - just more motivation. In February Garrigus found himself in the top 10 after three rounds of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am including a back-nine 29 at Monterey Peninsula Country Club on Saturday, but on Sunday morning he knew something was wrong. “I couldn’t stand up when I tried to get out of bed,” he explained. “I was dizzy, felt sick and knew I had to call the paramedics.” What was reported as a dangerous spike in blood pressure, which did occur, was ultimately diagnosed as severe dehydration and led to his withdrawal from the tournament. Garrigus said that 45 minutes after his scheduled tee time he was cleared to play golf. “I have never been that upset to miss a round of golf,” he recalled. And the incident left him a little “skittish”. “For a couple of weeks after that I was a little afraid to go at it real hard,” he said, but that is all behind him now. “I am working out fully again, and I’m ready to contend. That’s what players work for, that’s what we all love.” Garrigus earned many new fans after his near-miss in Memphis and looks forward to returning this year. We look forward to his return as well, and hopefully an opportunity to watch him contend again. “I told my caddie walking up to the 18th tee at Disney - well, we know what NOT to do.” Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:29:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/78 February 8, 2011 The 29th Memphis District Senior Olympics will take place April 12 - 26. The event draws eligible athletes aged 50 and over from the following counties: Shelby, Fayette, Tipton and Lauderdale. The Olympic-style events at various locations around Memphis include golf, cycling, bowling, tennis, racquetball, swimming, table tennis, badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes, track and field, volleyball, basketball 3 on 3, basketball free throw, softball throw and pickleball. Early bird registration $20 deadline: March 1st Final registration $30 deadline: March 15th Athletes will have the opportunity to practice and receive official rules & registration packages at free clinics around the Memphis area. For information on free clinics and locations contact Lori Fageol (901) 383-9101. Registration forms are available at Park Services Senior Centers or online at www.tnseniorolympics.com. Presenting Sponsor: Blue CrossBlue Shield of Tennessee Gold Sponsors: City of Memphis Division of Park Services; Stryker Orthopaedics Silver Sponsor: Kroger Bronze Sponsors: Frayser-Raleigh Senior Center Advisory Council; Lucille McWherter Senior Center Advisory Council Wed, 09 Feb 2011 22:21:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/76 Check out the new Stay & Play Golf Packages and make Mirimichi your destination! For full details CLICK HERE Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:25:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/75 Memphis, TN - September 24, 2010 The 2011 St. Jude Classic will be played June 6-12 at TPC Southwind, officials have announced. It marks the fifth straight year the tournament has been played the week prior to the U.S. Open. England's Lee Westwood, currently ranked third in the Official World Golf Rankings, is expected to defend his SJC title next summer giving the event a head start on a strong field of players for its 54th event. "We're very pleased with this prime date on the PGA TOUR schedule," said Jack Sammons, SJC general chairman. "It's no secret that tournaments played the week prior to a major enjoy strong fields. Most of the top golfers want a tune-up week heading into the Open, especially the international players." Meanwhile, the search for a title sponsor for the event continues. Tournament officials, representatives from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and PGA TOUR officials, who have taken the lead on finding the tournament a title sponsor, are in ongoing discussions with title-sponsor hopefuls. “We’ve had several discussions with some large corporations that are seriously taking a look at sponsoring the event,” said Phil Cannon, SJC tournament director. “I have a high level of confidence that things are going to turn out like we hope. We feel much better about our situation at this time than we did a year ago at this same time.” In other news, St. Jude Classic Tournament Manager Todd Garten has resigned to take a position in private business. “We will sorely miss Todd’s leadership and presence,” Cannon said. “We’ve been very fortunate to have Todd on our team. His value cannot be overstated. Todd has been very loyal to our efforts and an instrumental part of our success.” Garten, 34, has been on the staff of Memphis’ PGA TOUR event since 2003, and most recently was primarily responsible for the tournament’s sales and marketing efforts. Russ Gordon returns to the tournament staff after a two-year absence to succeed Garten, who is leaving to become director of human resources for The Spencer Group, which owns a chain of retail furniture stores in the southern states. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:27:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/74 Golf Tournament to Benefit Local School a Huge Success Press Release from The Memphis Oral School for the Deaf GERMANTOWN, TN, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2010 – The Memphis Oral School for the Deaf (MOSD) is the proud creator of a successful golf tournament, raising more than $42,000 with matching funds from an anonymous family foundation. All proceeds directly benefit the programs offered at MOSD. The first annual MOSD Golf Tournament, sponsored by Padawer & Associates, Certified Public Accountants, took place on September 13, 2010 at Wedgewood Golfers’ Club in Olive Branch, Mississippi. “Eagle” Sponsors included Brant A. Ray – Wells Fargo Advisors, CA Technologies, Pickler Wealth Advisors, Subsidium, Inc., Trigon Sports Athletic Equipment, and WagermanKatzman Law Firm. This year’s “Birdie” Sponsor was New Focus Lighting & Power Technology. The Lexus of Memphis Hole in One contest, the Dobbs Nissan Longest Drive contest, snacks provided by Costco, lunch by King Cotton, and dinner by Leonard’s BBQ and St. Clair Foods were enjoyed by all. All photography was donated by Richard Ramsey of Ramsey Photography, with each team member receiving a group photo! MOSD would also like to thank all of our other sponsors and donors: Best Buy, Financial Federal, Flemings, Frank Grisanti’s Restaurant at Embassy Suites, Sheri & Steve Gardner, Glassman, Edwards, Wade, & Wyatt, P.C., Christopher Gogonelis, Golf Magazine, Rosemary Higginbotham, Hilton Hotels, Hog Wild BBQ, Stueart L. Hudsmith, D.D.S., Zoe Hughes, ICA Gourmet Spices, Interim, JG’s Restaurant, Jody’s Donut Bakery, Kellon Insurance Agency, Magna Bank, Mama Mia’s Pizzaria, the Memphis Grizzlies, Napa Café, Norwood Promotional Products, O’Charley’s, Pei Wei, David Pickler, Lewis Pittman, the Podnar Family, POP Solutions, the RiverKings, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Teresa & George Schwartz, Sprint, SunTrust Bank, Carolyn Tangery - First National Realty, Target, and Chris Wiltzy. With the tournament teams split into three flights, multiple prizes were awarded. First place in the first flight went to the CA Technologies team of Jason Terry, Steve Bowers, Justin Herter, and Schaad Sealy. To view the complete list of winning teams, please visit www.mosdkids.org. Plans are already underway for the 2nd Annual MOSD Golf Tournament! For more information please contact Martha Wagerman at mwagerman@mosdkids.org or 901-758-2228. The Memphis Oral School for the Deaf is located in Germantown, TN with the mission Empowering Deaf Children to Listen, Learn and Talk. MOSD has been serving families from Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama for more than fifty years. Our programs are for hearing-impaired children ages birth to 6 years old. As the name implies, we utilize “oral” instructional methods to develop listening and spoken language. No sign language is used. The ultimate goal for our students is to mainstream into their neighborhood schools with their hearing peers as early as kindergarten. Memphis Oral School for the Deaf, founded in 1959, Empowers Deaf Children to Listen, Learn, and Talk. For more information about the school, please visit www.mosdkids.org. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:43:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/73 BUZZ FLY REPEATS IN 2010 MGA SENIOR AMATEUR! _as first published by memphisga.com_ Dates: Sep 19 - Sep 20 Courses: Ridgeway Country Club(Memphis, TN), Windyke Country Club - East(Memphis, TN) Ridgeway Country Club(Par: 71 Distance: 7013) Windyke Country Club - East(Par: 72 Distance: 7214) Buzz Fly captured his fourth MGA Senior Amateur title and extended his total number of MGA wins to 29 by firing a two under par 70 today on Windyke Country Club's east course. His two-day total of 2 under par 141 was good for a three stroke victory over Gary Simpson who followed up his opening 75 on day one at Ridgeway Country Club with a tournament-low 69 on the final day. Fred McCord finished third after rounds of 74-72--146. For complete results CLICK HERE Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:38:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/72 MIRIMICHI REOPENS WITH EXTENSIVE ENHANCEMENTS Course Improvements, the Mirimichi Performance and Learning Center 100+ Acres of Skill-Building Amenities Establish Mirimichi as an International Leader in Golf September 6, 2010 by Ralph Berry Thompson & Berry PR (901) 486-4269 MEMPHIS, TN – Mirimichi officially celebrated its reopening with a news conference featuring Co-FoundersCo-Owners Lynn Harless, Paul Harless and Justin Timberlake along with officials representing the world's most respected international golf and environmental organizations. Closed since mid-January, 2010 for improvements to establish it as one of the world's premier golf experiences, Mirimichi now offers among the highest levels of golf and game improvement facilities. Mirimichi is a world class golf experience at a public course without expensive memberships, minimums or monthly dues. "When we initially decided to accelerate 3 years of course improvements, we knew we had to come out of the closure with something that our loyal customers and the golf world would celebrate," said Justin Timberlake. "In looking at what the team accomplished, I am excited about the place we now can claim on the world's golf stage. Whether a Touring Pro, a local Memphis golfer, a tourist to Memphis or someone of any age learning to play the game of golf, Mirimichi has something for you." "We knew we had a great golf course when we opened in 2009," added Mirimichi Director of Golf, Greg King. "But, after our first season of heavy play, as well as visits from golf's elite, we knew we had an opportunity to take Mirimichi to the next level. That is what we now offer, a course capable of hosting a future major championship and a total facility that will be the center for golf in this part of the country." Enhancements and improvements at Mirimichi include: CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE Renovation by Bergin Golf Designs; Construction by C R Sanders, Inc.; Greens Grassing by Champion Turf Farm, Morris Brown, CEO and creator of the Champion Bermudagrass. Improved golf experience and playability. All greens re-contoured to accommodate major championship conditions and green speed, and re-sprigged to USGA and PGA tournament quality standards with Champion Bermudagrass. All green surrounds re-grassed with MS Express Bermuda to provide smooth, fast surfaces. An increased risk/reward situation for golfers of all levels through shifting and size adjustments to greens. Positioned greens closer to water, enhancing the aesthetic beauty while increasing the challenge for accomplished players. Additional tee boxes to improve the playability for all golfers. Bunker redesign in a bold "Ross" to improve consistency and playability for players of every skill level, including addition of white "Augusta" sand. SKILL BUILDING The Mirimichi Performance and Learning Center, a 10,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility, featuring three types of cutting edge technology – Trackman, V1 Pro Instructional system and the Callaway Performance and Analysis System (CPAS) technology and club fitting. Little Mirimichi, an executive 9-hole, par-35 course, a faster, easier and shorter golfing experience designed for beginners and those not yet ready to take on the challenge of the championship course. Practice range tee enlarged by 12,600 sq. ft. offering an unparallel training area, hitting to nine target greens and different fairway areas. Provides new angles and sun/wind directions. 18-hole putting course added – designed for skill building as well as family fun and entertainment. Newly remodeled and expanded bunker and short game complex, practice putting green, and an expanded driving range. Environmental Improved water filtration and drainage system to reduce water consumption and increase recycling by tying drainage to ponds and lakes. Newly enhanced re-circulating creek and waterfall system. Reforestation of native trees, added wildflower meadows, aquatic plants and landscaped areas, add to the scenic beauty. All native areas allowed to mature to a completely natural state - adding to the wild beauty of the course and its lush ecosphere, and creating a natural environment for native wildlife. Increased use of electric carts and other energy saving initiatives. Having world class greens is a key component to a course of this quality said King. "We appreciate the consultation and advice we received from Chris Hartwiger at the USGA Greens Section during our construction and grow-in." Mirimichi, which means "place of happy retreat," is located just north of Downtown Memphis. The par 72 championship course is a challenging 7,400 yards from the tips, but provides five to eight different tee boxes on each hole to appeal to golfers of all abilities. Lush fairways, swathes of native grassland, beautiful landscaping, four waterfalls, six lakes and two meandering streams make this golfing oasis a place where people and nature co-exist in harmony. The Mirimichi Performance and Learning Center is one of a select few facilities in the country to feature Callaway CPAS technology. The Center, 10,200 sq. ft. under the roof and a 920 sq. ft. screened-in patio, is the hub of Mirimichi's training and education, offering world class instruction and club fitting. A wealth of technology is used to analyze golfers' swings and resulting ball flight to produce optimal specifications regardless of the clubs they are currently playing or interested in. Three teaching bays feature roll-up doors, allowing students to hit from inside the building onto the driving range. At Mirimichi, you can improve your game year-round. "We are very proud to offer our Callaway Performance Analysis System at Mirimichi," said George Fellows, President and CEO, Callaway Golf. "This proprietary technology, originally designed for our staff professionals such as Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els and Annika Sorenstam, enables Mirimichi's talented staff of certified club specialists to find the right equipment for every level of golfer. Mirimichi's dedication to growing the game of golf matches up very well with Callaway's commitment to making every golfer a better golfer through innovation and best in class products." Mirimichi is the first golf course in North, South or Central America to receive Golf Environment Organization (GEO) certified status. It is the first course in the United States to be designated as a Certified Audubon International Classic Sanctuary, making it the only course in the world holding both designations. At Mirimichi, ecologically responsible methods are utilized throughout to enhance water quality and wildlife habitat, and to reduce water and energy consumption. At a special ceremony today, Justin Timberlake and the management of Mirimichi were formally presented the GEO Certification by Bud Smart, GEO Regional Director, The Americas. "Environmental sustainability at Mirimichi is about more than what we can do at our course. It is about taking a leadership role and encouraging other golf courses, and organizations of all kinds around the world to emulate our commitment toward making a positive impact on the world we live in," said Timberlake in accepting the GEO Certification. "We are very proud to receive this certification." ABOUT MIRIMICHI Mirimichi, meaning "place of happy retreat," is a premier public golf course located just 15 minutes north of Downtown Memphis. Co-FoundedCo-Owned by Lynn Harless, Paul Harless and Justin Timberlake, Mirimichi's rolling grass mounds, meandering creeks and scenic vistas provide a natural ambience that creates a haven for both golfer and nature. At Mirimichi, golf, nature and people exist in harmony. For information visit www.mirimichi.com or call Mirimichi at 901-259-3800. About C R Sanders, Inc. C R Sanders, Inc. is a world-renowned golf course construction, landscape, and irrigation company which, since its inception in 1985, has maintained a tradition of excellence in products and services developed over three generations. Sanders has worked on numerous courses that have hosted major championships, including Pinehurst No. 2 which was remodeled for the U.S. Open. Sanders' work on the renovations at TPC Las Colinas Texas earned the course recognition as the #1 golf course renovation in 2008. www.crsandersgolf.com ABOUT BERGIN GOLF DESIGNS Bergin Golf Designs is led by Bill Bergin, whose background in the golf industry is distinctive as a touring professional, golf instructor and Class "A" member of the PGA. Over the last twenty years, Bergin has been involved in the planning and design of over 50 projects, including more than 35 under his own banner. Highlighting Bergin Golf Designs' completed projects are The Club at Fairvue Plantation near Nashville, and named as one of Golfweek's 2009 Best New Courses; and Heritage Plantation, in Laurel Hill, Florida, selected as Golf Digest's 5th Best New Public/Resort Course in the US for 2008. Bergin has combined his strategic instincts and design experience with a dedication to detail in project management. www.bergingolf.com About Champion Turf Farms Champion Turf Farms is unique in the industry in that they are the breeders, producers, and installers of their grasses. This unique position, combined with four decades of experience, lead them to develop their own support network for their grass. Owner Morris Brown created the Champion Bermuda grass used by more than 400 other courses throughout the United States. A unique blend of Champion Bermudagrass was developed for Mirimichi. www.championturffarms.com Tue, 07 Sep 2010 20:09:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/71 U.S. Open Local Qualifying Ridgeway Country Club Par 71 7,013 yards May 13, 2010 Advanced to Sectional Qualifying Score Chris Erwin Spring Hill TN 66 Alan McAfee Memphis TN 68 Ian Rochester Cordova TN 68 Chris Rogers Nashville TN 68 Adam Speirs Canada 68 First Alternate (won on 3rd playoff hole) Eric Beaty Memphis TN 69 Second Alternate Trey Denton Madison MS 69 Eliminated on second playoff hole Jonathan Fly Memphis TN 69 Did Not Advance Bradley Farmer Hermitage TN 70 Thomas Lathrop Nashville TN 70 Josh Oller Jackson MS 70 Jonathan Randolph Brandon MS 70 Packard Dewitt Germantown TN 71 Reed Hughes Sardis MS 71 Tony Fisher Alpharetta GA 72 Bradley Long Bluff Park AL 72 Derek Rende Chattanooga TN 72 Will Roebuck England 72 Michael Atkeison Somerville TN 73 Kevin Boyle Germantown TN 73 Dan Chartrand Canada 73 John T Clendenin Winston GA 73 Daniel Creel Florence AL 73 Hunter Kraus Germantown TN 73 Jesse Speirs Bangor ME 73 William Johnson Longview TX 74 James Porter Australia 74 Mike Regenold Piperton TN 74 Christopher Thompson Germantown TN 74 Tyler Chandler Grapevine TX 75 Brett Egge Sioux Falls SD 75 Jim Gallagher Jr Greenwood MS 75 Jeff Jones Nashville TN 75 James Kostaroff Jackson TN 75 Bailey Childress Memphis TN 76 Kevin Snell Eagleville TN 76 Pope Spruiell Tuscaloosa AL 76 Eddy Whitaker Tn 76 Charlie Grace Windermere FL 77 David Howser Memphis TN 77 Nathan McMullen Australia 77 Michael Monroe Franklin TN 77 Scott Weaver Madison AL 77 Justin Emil Nashville TN 78 Richard Golden Memphis TN 78 Lexus Keoninh Murfreesboro TN 78 Jonathan Martin Franklin TN 78 Lee McGriff IV Birmingham AL 78 Edward Michaels IV Nashville TN 78 Demando Mingo Choctaw MS 78 Jay Potter Chattanooga TN 78 Travis Thompson Benton KY 78 John Luke Tyner Collierville TN 78 Hunter Bronson Mobile AL 79 Steven Fox Hendersonville TN 79 Erin McDonald Memphis TN 79 Josh Bevell Nashville TN 80 Jeff Capwell Memphis TN 80 Jason Haluska Collierville TN 80 Aaron Ingalls Mount Olive AL 80 Christopher Sherry Franklin TN 80 Shane Vinson Hendersonville TN 80 Tom Madden Jr Memphis TN 81 Erik Miller Nashville TN 82 Bryan Shumate Kennett MO 82 Sam Kern Memphis TN 83 Samuel Thompson Paducah KY 84 Sammy Clemmons Choctaw MS 85 Brad Moore Clinton IL 85 Jonathan Wilson Holly Springs MS 85 Zac Radford Brentwood TN 86 Adrian Adams Gallatin TN NC Derek Myers Collierville TN NC Chris Barron Nashville TN WD Doug Barron Memphis TN WD Byron Cooke Shelbyville TN WD Arnold Cunningham Nashville TN WD Kyle Fulbright Jackson TN WD Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/70 _As first reported by St. Jude Classic_ England's Lee Westwood, currently ranked fourth in the Official World Golf Rankings, has accepted a sponsor's exemption to play in the 2010 St. Jude Classic Presented by Smith & Nephew. Westwood, 37, has finishes of second, third and third in the last three major championships. He will be making his first Memphis appearance. "Prior to Lee's request last week, we had identified the four players who would play in the unrestricted sponsor exemption slots we are allowed," said SJC Tournament Director Phil Cannon. "For that reason, we initially told Lee we were not able to accommodate his request. But we have gained the support of other players affected by this decision to award one of the exemption slots to Lee. "This was solely the tournament's decision. We're glad it has turned out this way. Lee has told us he is delighted to be playing in our event, and we look forward to welcoming him on his first visit to Memphis," Cannon said. “We also know that St. Jude Children's Research Hospital will benefit from the addition of such a highly ranked player.” PGA TOUR regulations allow tournaments four "unrestricted" sponsor exemptions. For a number of years, the SJC has used these spots for local players and past champions. This year's event is scheduled for June 7-13, at TPC Southwind. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:21:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/69 _As first reported by Ralph Berry at thompson-co.com_ Mirimichi Celebrates Earth Day as First Golf Course in the Americas to Receive the International GEO Certification for Environmental Sustainability MEMPHIS, Tennessee, April 22, 2010 Media Contact: Ralph Berry Thompson & Berry PR (901) 486-4269 rberry@brainwoo.com Mirimichi, a world-class golf facility, has become the first golf course in North, South or Central America to receive Golf Environment Organization (GEO) Certified status. The designation signifies that Mirimichi has met comprehensive and advanced sustainability requirements, and uses them to both drive continual improvement, and communicate the back-story behind their success. With GEO Certification Mirimichi becomes one of just 10 courses world-wide to receive the prestigious designation. The Golf Environmental Organization is a non-profit organization committed to strengthening ties between people, golf and the environment. The international organization recognizes that opportunities for enhancing social and environmental quality abound in golf development and management, and works through a global community of partners to develop and deliver innovative, practical programs within a coordinated sustainable golf movement. "Receiving GEO Certification, especially on this 40th anniversary of Earth Day, is a very proud moment for all of us associated with Mirimichi," said Justin Timberlake, owner of Mirimichi. "Environmental sustainability at Mirimichi is about more than what we can do at our course. It is about taking a leadership role and encouraging other golf courses, and organizations of all kinds around the country and around the globe to emulate our commitment toward making a positive impact on the world we live in." The full details of Mirimichi's certification can be found on the GEO website at: www.golfenvironment.org/mirimichi. "What we see here is a model example of sustainability in golf," said Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of the Golf Environment Organization. "Mirimichi is well integrated into the community, and has focused on maximizing the site's ecological value while minimizing resource consumption. Mirimichi highlights that with the engagement of skilled and motivated staff who are actively encouraged to explore common sense opportunities to enhance the facility's environmental and social value, golf really can deliver a diverse range of benefits to local people and as ecosystems. "GEO has brought this recognition programme forward, with the support of our partners, at a time when golf facilities the world over are re-positioning themselves to offer high quality products based on sustainability principles and practices," added Smith. "We are delighted Mirimichi have chosen to be a leader in this movement, and by the drive that Justin and his team have demonstrated in Mirimichi's redevelopment and ongoing management." To achieve GEO Certification, Mirimichi had to publicly represent and have independently verified a high level of performance in a wide variety of environmental and conservation areas. Some of the particular strengths noted during the site's verification included: enhancing nature protection by increasing the size and connection of natural habitats; placing an emphasis on entirely native planting, enhancing landscape and cultural heritage; minimizing water consumption; protecting and enhancing water quality; minimizing pesticide use; reducing resource and energy consumption and waste; providing comprehensive internal and external environmental communications and maintaining a challenging Environmental Management Plan. Progress is continually re-assessed and reported on a three-year basis. "Here at Mirimichi everyone feels the depth of our commitment and drive to do our best for people and the environment. Our staff have embraced their role as stewards and it's visible in all aspects of our facilities," said Kenny Herzog, Superintendent at Mirimichi. "Knowing we are managing to internationally recognized standards of social and environmental performance, our team can confidently promote the benefits of living and working more sustainably. We've gone far beyond simply massaging our performance stats or green marketing. We do it because it's good for business, and because we know great golf and healthy ecosystems go hand in hand." "I've been working with the team at Mirimichi for three years and have witnessed an unerring desire to completely understand the sustainability opportunities," said sustainability adviser, Russ Bodie of Sustainable Golf, LLC. "What sets Mirimichi apart is that they have made the commitment from the top down to tell people about what they are doing; to share their experience in delivering sustainable golf not only within their own community but also with the rest of the industry. That desire to share and partner is in the spirit of true environmentalism, and the Mirimichi has it in abundance." The GEO Certification compliments Mirimichi's existing environmental award as the first golf course in the U.S. to be designated as a Certified Audubon International Classic Sanctuary. To achieve both these certifications, Mirimichi has worked closely with sustainability consultants including accredited GEO Sustainability Advisers on creating responsible procedures and policies, the long-term environmental management of the golf course and comprehensive employee training. About Mirimichi: Mirimichi, meaning "place of happy retreat" is a public golf course located just 15 minutes north of Downtown Memphis. Family owned by Justin Timberlake and co-founders, Lynn and Paul Harless, Mirimichi's rolling grass mounds, meandering creeks and scenic vistas provide a natural ambience that creates a haven for both golfer and nature. At Mirimichi, golf, nature and people exist in harmony. For more information, visit www.mirimichi.com or call Mirimichi at 901-259-3800. About the Golf Environment Organization: The Golf Environment Organization (GEO) is an international non-governmental organization working to enhance the economic, social and environmental benefits of golf. Committed to partnering throughout the global golf community to raise standards, provide productive solutions and objectively appraise and recognize performance, GEO is supported by a global network of partners, scientists, thought leaders, industry representatives and major organizations such as The European Tour, European Golf Association, WWF, UNEP, and the Golf Club Managers Associations of Europe, America and China. Thu, 22 Apr 2010 18:33:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/68 As first reported by The Commercial Appeal April 10, 2010 MASTERS SPOTLIGHT BIG ENOUGH FOR OTHERS By Geoff Calkins AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Brad Benjamin finished his round, signed his scorecard, then walked to meet a cluster of reporters. His eyes were rimmed red, though it was hard to tell why. This golf course is yellow with pollen. He answered a question about a particular shot, but words seemed to be a struggle. "Choking back a few tears?" a reporter asked. And then he couldn't choke them back any longer. They came in a rush, unstoppable. Benjamin bent his head, to hide them. He shook, quietly. A solid minute passed. The Masters media representative offered a towel. Another minute passed. Still more tears. "I'm not going to be able to talk," Benjamin said, finally. The media representative guided him away. Benjamin found Steve Benjamin, his father. They hugged, long and hard. "It's OK," said Steve. "You'll be back here." Tiger Woods shot a 70 Friday to put himself two shots off the lead. There, are you happy now? That's the Tiger news. He's a fabulous golfer. It is otherworldly, what he's been able to do this week. He appears to be poised to win the thing. But Friday was not about Tiger Woods. Friday was about the other, smaller stories, that get lost in the man's ever-widening shadow. Tom Watson made the cut at age 60 and sounded ticked about it. Seriously, the man was peeved. "I'm disappointed," he said. All around him, older golfers were falling, reminded by this golf course that they can no longer handle its beautiful savagery. Ian Woosnam shot an 83. Sandy Lyle shot an 86. "I felt like I was playing with a lead ball. You hit it and it goes, 'pffffffft." Woosnam said. "It's like the course says, 'Right, I'm going to really kill you.' " Meanwhile, Watson just sails along, a wonder in a V-neck sweater. He's 3-under for the tournament with no thoughts of going away. "I have thoughts of playing my butt off," he said. Which may be the only thing he has in common with Matteo Manassero who, at 16, is exactly 44 years younger than Watson. Manassero, from Italy, is the youngest person to ever qualify for the Masters. When his car pulled down Magnolia Lane the first time, someone else had to do the driving. Manassero was in the back seat, peering out the window. He doesn't yet have his license. "I always watched and dream about the Masters," he said. Always? "Since I was 14," he said, which was exactly two years ago. But like Watson, Manassero made the cut. Not bad for a kid who wouldn't look out of place at White Station Middle School. "I like old music, like U2," he said. Golfing with the oldies? As for Benjamin, he finally composed himself enough to talk with reporters. He asked if he could do it under the big oak. Twenty minutes after his first try, he still struggled to get the words out. No, he wasn't happy with the way he finished his round. He bogeyed three of his last four holes to miss the cut with a 77. But that's not why Benjamin was crying. He was crying from the emotion of it all. A year ago, he was a senior at Memphis, a good but not exceptional college golfer. Three years before that, as a freshman at Memphis, he had been used in only two tournaments. And now he was at Augusta. Now he was in this astonishingly beautiful place, competing with these magnificent golfers, soaking in moments only a few get to experience. "It has nothing to do with failure or success," he said, explaining the tears. "It's just that ..." Here he stopped, to collect himself again. "It's just a dream come true," he said. "You just think of all the people who helped get you here." So, no, this tournament isn't all about a single controversial golfer. It's about a 60-year-older champion and a 16-year-old phenomenon, it's about an amateur from Memphis and his freshman-roommate caddy, it's about wondrous days and big dreams and the people who help you reach them. "I wish it didn't have to end," Benjamin said. Next time, maybe it won't have to. To reach Geoff Calkins, call 529-2364 or e-mail calkins@commercialappeal.com. Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:44:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/67 As first reported by The Commercial Appeal March 28, 2010 Spring Creek Ranch golf retreat forecasts bright days after Stanford 'cloud' by Tom Bailey Jr. On Feb. 17 last year, the general manager of Spring Creek Ranch, a private golf retreat, was at his desk when a friend called to offer condolences. "About what?" Robb Meyer recalls asking. Federal agents had just raided Stanford Financial's offices at the Crescent Center, the friend explained, shutting down a massive Ponzi scheme that had bilked investors of billions of dollars. "I was shocked. I think I was more shocked not so much because I had met and spent time with Jim Davis," he says of Stanford Financial's chief financial officer. "I was shocked he was involved in it. He fooled me." Stanford Financial was placed under receivership; its top executives, including Davis and Texas financier R. Allen Stanford, faced criminal charges. Four years earlier, Meyer and his father, who founded Spring Creek Ranch, had unwittingly struck a deal with the devil. They had sold Stanford Financial half-ownership in Spring Creek Ranch for $6.5 million and equity investments. But on Friday, U.S. Dist. Judge David C. Godbey in Dallas approved the deal that ends the partnership. For just $3 million, the Meyers are paying the receivership's estate to regain full ownership of Spring Creek Ranch, and continue to benefit from the more than $30 million in improvements that Stanford sunk into the property. "This cloud is finally going to be gone and blown away," Meyer says. The club appears to be emerging from the fiasco, smelling like one of the fragrant flowers that dot its landscape. "Once this deal is done and even before, we will have no debt," Meyer says. But Meyer empathizes with Stanford investors who lost substantial sums in the fraud. His own family was among them, he says. 'Done, done' Memphis' best-known golf instructor, Rob Akins, and Meyer are hunched over a catalog in the bed of Akins' pickup. The two men are in a muddy, newly cleared area 400 yards downrange from the members' practice tee at Spring Creek Ranch, the swanky golf club north of Collierville. That's where Spring Creek Ranch is building for Akins a teaching facility befitting the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and the golf house by architect James Cutler, who designed Bill Gates' $100 million residence. The board-and-batten building for lessons -- complete with climate-controlled hitting bays, high-speed cameras and radar that details the ball's flight -- will look like a hunting lodge. Akins points in the catalog to the type of stamped concrete he wants for the deck. It looks remarkably like planks of wood. Meyer's father, opthalmologist Dr. David Meyer, founded Spring Creek Ranch, preserving the land's rolling beauty by turning it into a golf course instead of a subdivision. Robb Meyer runs the place. He looks a bit like a young John Travolta with a buzz cut. Almost the instant Meyer absorbs that Akins seeks approval for the rustic-looking stamped concrete, Meyer asserts: "Done, done." More facilities, access Spring Creek Ranch is in a building mode this year. It's also erecting eight cabins for members and their businesses to use for retreats. This also is the year the 11-year-old club will become more accessible, holding tournaments sanctioned by the Memphis Golf Association and Tennessee Golf Association that nonmembers can play in. One Monday this year its gate will fling open to let anyone play; all the green fees will be donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Despite the taint of being associated with Stanford, the club is adding members, Meyer says. Thanks in part to eliminating the initiation fee, Spring Creek has signed 108 new members since last March. Receiver's motion Stanford Financial receiver Ralph Janvey is still working to recover billions for investors who were scammed. He studied Stanford's half-stake in Spring Creek Ranch, determined its annual, million-dollar deficits were a bad deal for investors and wants out. When Janvey couldn't entice any other bidders for the half-ownership, he recommended in January the court accept the Meyer family's offer to buy back the half-stake for $3 million. The court approved the motion Friday. Janvey's motion pointed out that Stanford had sunk more than $30 million in equity investments and loans to improve club facilities. Janvey's motion painted a bleak picture of the golf club: Annual deficits of more than a million dollars for the foreseeable future; too remote to lure new members; no pool or tennis courts to attract families. Meyer half-smiles when asked about it. The negative report is based on information the Meyers provided to strengthen their case in the negotiations with the receivers, he says. The worse conditions are, the less the Meyers should pay to buy back full ownership. "So none of that really bothered me because it was stuff we gave them," he says. Besides, the receivers' report makes no mention that Tenn. 385, the outer loop, is under construction nearby and will have two exits near Spring Creek Ranch. As for no pools and tennis courts, those are not what Spring Creek is about. It's a golf club, not a country club. The emphasis is on natural beauty, and passively enjoying it in a retreat setting, Meyer says. Big Ol' Texas Robb Meyer met Texas financier R. Allen Stanford just once; they had lunch at Spring Creek Ranch. Stanford's presence filled the room. "He should have worn a T-shirt that just said, 'Texas. Big ol' Texas,' " Meyer says with a laugh. But Memphis-based James M. "Jim" Davis was the one Meyer had a relationship with, the one who frequently came to Spring Creek Ranch, the one the Meyer family struck a deal with. Anyone with passion resonates with Meyer, and Davis seemed passionate about the partnership and about Memphis. "Part of me now wants to think, can he fake that?" Meyer says. "I was just shocked he was involved with it. He fooled me." No tournament Until Feb. 17, 2009, Stanford Financial was just about a perfect partner. Davis insisted Meyer keep running the club the same as he always had. Davis always said "yes" to funding improvements if Meyer thought they would make Spring Creek Ranch better. Yes, Stanford Financial apparently had an ulterior motive: To eventually move the Memphis PGA Tour tournament Stanford sponsored from TPC Southwind to Spring Creek Ranch. Meyer says he not only was open-minded about the request, he traveled to other tournament venues to do research. But he and his father concluded a yearly PGA Tour event was not a good fit for Spring Creek. Too disruptive. Not only would members not get to play the course for a couple of weeks, but the scaffolding, bleachers, tents and other tournament infrastructure would spoil Spring Creek Ranch's natural setting for several months. While many assumed the tournament would move from Southwind to Spring Creek, "it was never coming here," Meyer says. Club's relevance Spring Creek Ranch, of course, is economically exclusive. Meyer declines to reveal what the monthly dues are. Still, he contends the place is part of Memphis' fabric, like the Grizzlies and Redbirds. The community will take pride in Spring Creek when it eventually hosts important national tournaments. The goal eventually is to be the venue for a PGA championship, one of four major competitions in men's golf. The club will build up to that by going after local, state and such national competitions as the PGA for seniors and women. "We are not elitist," Meyer says. "We are not about who you are, what family you are from, what religion, gender or race. If you wanted to be a member here, those things don't matter." Spring Creek Ranch can't replace the kind of money Stanford Financial generated for St. Jude, but it's going to partner with the research hospital to host several types of fundraising events. As for his old partner, Meyer says he has neither heard from nor seen Jim Davis since the scandal broke. Davis has pleaded guilty to three counts in the criminal case, is free on bond, awaiting sentencing, and cooperating with prosecutors. -- Tom Bailey Jr.: 529-2388 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 18:14:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/66 _As first reported by gotigersgo.com_ March 2, 2010 MEMPHIS WINS USA LADY JAGUAR INVITATIONAL Steen captures first medalist honors of career by Preston McClellan, Graduate Assistant (Mobile, Alabama) The University of Memphis women's golf team posted a final round 304 to capture the team title at the USA Lady Jaguar Invitational. Marissa Steen claimed medalist honors by defeating Lauren Cate of Stetson on the first playoff hole. Steen recorded a par on the 18th hole to claim her first medalist honors at Memphis and the first for the program since Stacey Tate won the individual title at the Lady Eagle Invitational in 2006. "I'm so proud of Marissa," said Lady Tiger head coach Beth Harrelson. "She has worked so hard, and she's just playing with no fear right now." Three other Lady Tigers also posted top-10 finishes. Kathleen Glavin carded rounds of 77-75-77 to earn a career-low finish of tied for fifth. Alex Alang (80-75-76) and Sarah Mathews (77-77-77) finished in a tie for eighth position. Julia Hodgson finished in a tie for 41st with scores of 80-79-84. This is the first time Memphis has had three or more golfers finish in the top-10 individually under Harrelson. Memphis trailed Florida International by four strokes going into the final round, but the Lady Tigers fired a final round 304 to pass FIU and claim victory by six strokes. Stetson finished eight shots back in third. This is the second victory for Memphis in 2009-10. The Lady Tigers claimed victory at their final event of the fall, the UAB Fall Beach Bash, where they were led by Sarah Mathews' runner-up individual finish. It is the first time the women's golf program has won two or more tournaments in the same season since 1996-97, when they won the Memphis Women's Invitational, the Lady Panther Invitational, and the Conference USA Championship. "This was an incredible performance by our team," said Harrelson. "The conditions were tough, but they just kept battling, and it really showed. I can't say enough how proud I am of everyone." For complete results visit GoTigersGo.com. Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:31:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/65 PGA TOUR Commisioner, Tim Finchem, adressed the media today by conference call and had the following to say about the St. Jude Classic in Memphis, TN and references from Saturday Night Live... "With regard to sponsorship in '10, we view the TOUR in 2010 being fully sponsored from a television and tournament charitable standpoint. Now, when we entered the year, we had four situations, ONE OF WHICH IN MEMPHIS, THE STANFORD COMPANY, VIRTUALLY IMPLODING; and then three bankruptcy-related issues, two with General Motors, which is Buick Open in Michigan and the Buick Invitational in San Diego, and then one with Chrysler, which was the Bob Hope Chrysler Open. Of those four, the Buick Open has been replaced. MEMPHIS IS IN A BRIDGE SITUATION PROBABLY FOR THE SECOND YEAR, ALTHOUGH WE CONTINUE TO TALK TO POTENTIAL LONGER TERM SPONSORS, BUT WILL BE OPERATIONAL AND FINE AND A STEADY PURSE AND CHARITABLE GIVING LEVEL IN MEMPHIS." "Lastly, let me turn for a few moments to the question of what's the effect of not having Tiger play the TOUR. I've been interested to see commentary from a different number of directions in the last week, specifically since Friday, since Tiger's announcement, that projects significant doom and gloom for the PGA TOUR, even to the point where SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE GOT INVOLVED AND HAD US LOSING MOST OF OUR SPONSORS. LET ME JUST PARENTHETICALLY SAY THAT THE RUMOR THAT I KEEP ON FLASK ON MY DESK IS NOT TRUE, THAT WAS SPAWNED BY THE SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE TELECAST ON SATURDAY NIGHT. Here's the real world: I know some pundits will try to say Tim is trying to spin this and spin that, but facts are facts. I could go on and on about the facts on this situation, but I just want to mention two or three things. First of all, I've been answering the question about what we do with tournaments where Tiger doesn't play for 13 years. How is it that the TOUR has 46, 47 events, Tiger plays in 16, how do the other tournaments make it happen? Scratching of heads. I've explained this many, many times. The reason is there's value. There's real value to sponsorship. There's real value to television, and there's tremendous charitable commitment. Those three things come together to put together viable, well-funded tournaments. I'll just give you two pieces of data to take away on this. One is if you consider that the top six charitable generators, top six tournaments in terms of charitable generation, and I'm sure everybody on the call knows all of our tournaments are organized for a charitable purpose. If you consider the top six; the Waste Management now sponsored by Waste Management event in Phoenix; the Valero Texas Open; the HP Byron Nelson; John Deere Classic; the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am, these tournaments -- and the Crowne Plaza event at Colonial, Tiger hasn't played in any of those events since -- Byron maybe four years ago or five years ago, but most of these tournaments not in the last five years, and yet they're generating millions and millions of dollars to charity because they sell. So why is that? It's because there's other factors. One factor is we've got a lot of players who the fans like. They'll buy tickets to come out and see them play. They're exciting. The second reason is the brand is strong. The third reason is that you have dedicated volunteer organizations in those communities reaching out and using our product to raise money for charity." Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:11:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/63 FOLLOW THE LOCAL PLAYERS FROM TENNESSEE AND ARKANSAS WHO MADE IT THROUGH TO THE FINAL QUALIFYING STAGE OF THE PGA TOUR Q-SCHOOL The top 25 players and ties at the conclusion of the tournament will receive 2010 PGA TOUR cards, while the next number of players nearest 50 will receive full status on the Nationwide Tour. All remaining players will have conditional status on the Nationwide Tour in 2010. Click Here for the FULL LEADERBOARD Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:11:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/61 Mid-South Players Make it Through to Final Qualifying Stage of PGA TOUR Q-School The following players from Tennessee and Arkansas have secured a spot to compete in the Final Qualifying Stage of the PGA TOUR Q-School which is scheduled to take place December 2 - 7: TENNESSEE Grant Leaver • Franklin, TN • T12th - Panama City Beach, FL Shaun Micheel • Germantown, TN • T9th - Panama City Beach, FL Chris Rogers • Nashville, TN • T16th - Pine Mountain, GA Scott Stallings • Knoxville, TN • 5th - Brooksville, FL Casey Wittenberg • Memphis, TN • 2nd - Panama City Beach, FL ARKANSAS Nick Beach • Fayetteville, AR • T12th - Kingwood, TX Glen Day • Little Rock, AR • 9th - Kingwood, TX NOVEMBER 18 - 21 Brooksville, FL (RESULTS) Panama City Beach, FL (RESULTS) Pine Mountain, GA (RESULTS) Kingwood, TX (RESULTS) McKinney, TX (RESULTS) Beaumont, CA (RESULTS) Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:09:00 GMT http://www.midsouthgolfer.com/view/62 _As first reported by gotigersgo.com_ November 3, 2009 LADY TIGERS WIN 2009 UAB FALL BEACH BLAST Local standout Sarah Mathews leads the way Sarah Mathews (Memphis, Tenn./St. Agnes Academy) carded rounds of 74-73 to lead the University of Memphis women's golf team to victory at the 2009 UAB Beach Blast. It is the first win under second year head coach Beth Harrelson and the first for the program since the 2007 Conference USA Championship. "To think how far we've come since this time last year is just astounding," said Coach Harrelson. "I told the team yesterday to just go out and play their own game today, and that's exactly what they did. I'm extremely proud of everyone for competing on every shot." Mathews' two-day total of 147 (+3) left her in a four way tie for runner up. The second place individual finish is also the lowest under Coach Harrelson and the lowest since Alexa Porter finished T2 in the 2008 Conference USA Championship. Senior Leslie Grabeman fired a team-low, even-par 72 in the final round to finish one stroke behind Mathews in fifth, marking her fourth consecutive top-20 finish. First round leader Kathleen Glavin struggled with the putter all day, but still managed to card a final round 78, good for a T8 finish. The eighth place finish is also the lowest of her career. Freshman Alex Alang fired rounds of 79-73 to finish T11, her second consecutive top-20 finish after an eighth place showing last week at the CSU Wendy's Invitational. Marissa Steen posted a final round 77 to finish in T26. Memphis turned in a second round team total of 295, the lowest under Coach Harrelson, to surpass first round leader MTSU (297-315), which finished fifth, and defeat runner-up Samford (301-304) by ten strokes. Arkansas State (306-300) and Louisiana-Monroe (307-299) tied for fourth. First round co-leader Carolyn Cochran (72-70) carded a final round, two-under-par 70 to claim medalist honors. Lady Tiger Sarah Mathews (74-73) tied for second, five strokes back. Since the end of last season, the Lady Tigers have improved by leaps and bounds. 2008-09 vs. 2009-10 Lady Tigers 2008-09 Fall 2009 Avg. Finish: 10th Avg. Finish: 5th Team Top-10's: 4 Team Top-10's: 4 Team Top-5's: 0 Team Top-5's 3 Low Finish: 8th Low Finish: 1st The UAB Fall Beach Blast marks the end of the fall portion of the schedule for the Lady Tigers. Memphis will resume competition when it travels to Miami, FL to compete in the Qdoba Collegiate Golf Tournament on February 14-16. Final Player RESULTS Final Team RESULTS Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:49:00 GMT