All Questions for Kevin Kenny
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Asked by David Dodd on March 31, 2009
Q: What course would you recommend in Miami for a conference tournament. All levels of players. Approx 100 golfers
A:

David,

Hard to beat the meeting space and golf options of the Doral Resort. Its proximity to the airport makes flight connections timely for those planning on arriving or leaving the day of the event.

You need not play the Blue Monster to enjoy a good course. Greg Norman's redesign of the Great White course is an excellent alternative.

Enjoy your golf.

Kevin

Asked by frank on March 20, 2009
Q: How many golf courses are in Florida, how many greenfees are sold by year and if you have approx number of tourist playing golf every year in the state. Thanks
A:

Frank,

The exact data you are inquiring about has not been compiled. However let's do a little math to try and come as close as we can.

There are approximately 1200 golf courses in Florida a mixture of both public, private and resort courses. Assuming that each course averages 30,000 rounds you would then have 36,000,000 rounds played in Florida annually.

This is an approximation of the number of rounds played. The makeup of tourist versus resident is anyone's guess. My educated guess would be about 80% resident to 20% tourist.

Hope this helped.

Kevin

Golf Tournaments
Asked by John Pye on February 23, 2009
Q: I am visiting my holiday home in Kissimmee on the 2nd May for 2 weeks. Are there any professional golfing tournaments on during my stay? Regards
A: John,

You're in luck. THE PLAYERS Championship takes place at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach from May 7-10. It is a bit of a drive from Orlando, but worth it as it's one of most famous PGA Tour events of the year. Also, the Outback Steakhouse Pro-Am (a Champions Tour event) takes place at TPC Tampa Bay (only about a 1 and 1/2-hour drive from the Kissimmee area) from April 17-19 in case you arrive earlier.

See a list of the Florida PGA Golf events in 2009. It also has links to where you can purchase tickets.

You will be arriving in time for many golf courses reducing their prices to off season rates. I would suggest playing as much as you can while you're here.

Enjoy,

Kevin
Orlando Golf Courses for Families
Asked by Sheila Harris on February 19, 2009
Q: We are coming to Orlando in March. What are some good courses for a family with two thirteen and a sixteen year old?
A:

Sheila,

All the courses at Disney are fun and family friendly. Orange County National has 45 holes of golf and one of the best practice facilities anywhere. Falcons Fire is another facility my juniors enjoyed.

There are plenty of other options in Orlando but these are my favorites for juniors.

Enjoy your trip.

Kevin

Port Charlotte Area Golf Courses and Driving Ranges for Beginners
Asked by Jerri on February 16, 2009
Q: Morning, we will be in Port Charlotte for the month of March. Can you recommend courses for someone who is new at the game that would not be too intimidating or even driving ranges to practice on. Distance within 40 miles would be great. Thank you!
A:

Jerri,

Port Charlotte is blessed with some great public courses.

Deep Creek in nearby Punta Gorda is a favorite of lacals for thier friendly service and challenging course. www.deepcreekgc.com/golf/proto/deepcreekgc/index.htm

Port Charlotte Golf Club boasts they have the best greens in the area. www.portcharlottegc.com/index.html

Riverwood is by far my favorite in the area and has a great practice facility. The course may be too much for you but it it worth a try. www.riverwoodgc.com/

Coral Oaks in northern Cape Coral is about 40 miles away and is a fine facility. www.capecoral.net/CoralOaksGolfCourse/Home/tabid/945/Default.aspx

Duffy's Golf center may be the place for you to start. It is a par 59 Executive golf course located in Port Charlotte. www.golflink.com/golf-courses/course.aspx

Enjoy your visit.

Kevin

Golf at Falcons Fire in Orlando
Asked by Neil on February 10, 2009
Q: I'm heading to Orlando in late April. I heard the greens at Falcons Fire are shot. Is that true, if so, do you think they'll be back by April?
A:

Neil,

I spoke with Jason an assistant professional at Falcons Fire. He explained that the greens were merely lightly overseeded, and they are basically dormant Bermuda right now.

With warmer weather between now and your scheduled arrival the greens will have plenty of time to heal properly. Bermuda grass in the winter goes dormant and loses it's color. The color and playability will return by mid March.

Enjoy your trip.

Kevin

Fort Myers Golf Courses
Asked by Charlene on February 08, 2009
Q: We'll be in Fort Myers the first week of April. Can you recommend at least 3 courses price range up to $50 with morning tee time. Thanks
A:

Charlene,

With Easter falling on April 12th this year you will still find seasonal pricing in Ft Myers during your visit.

Your best bet for morning tee times at that rate will be at the 2 city run courses Eastwood and Ft Myers Country Club. Eagle Ridge is another public course in your price range. www.playeagleridge.com/golf/proto/playeagleridge/rates/rates.htm

San Carlos Golf and Country Club just south of Ft Myers has posted rates just outside your range. www.golflink.com/golf-courses/course.aspx

Coral Oaks, in Cape Coral, just west of Fort Myers is a fun Arthur Hills course that is in your price range. www.capecoral.net/Government/ParksRecreation/ParksFacilities/RecreationCentersAttractions/CoralOaksGolfCourse/CoralOaksGolfCourse/CourseInformation/DailyRates/tabid/953/Default.aspx

Enjoy your stay,

Kevin

Reasonably Priced Sarasota Golf Courses
Asked by Steve Morrison on January 28, 2009
Q: Can you recommend any courses in the Sarasota area that are reasonably priced? Thanks.
A:

Steve,

Reasonably priced is a rather subjective phrase. Be aware that the time of year and the time of day you play will effect the price you pay to play.

Here are a few suggestions.

Bobby Jones Golf course has been a fixture in the area for quite some time. www.bobbyjonesgolfclub.com/rates.htm

The Golf club at Capri Isles, Calusa Lakes and Waterford are all owned by the same people and they do a nice job. www.golfinvenice.com/

There are other choices but these are the best bet for the buck.

Enjoy,

Kevin

"Great Value" Courses in Orlando Area
Asked by on January 15, 2009
Q: Single golfer escaping the midwest cold in Febraury 2009. Orlando is the likely destination. Could you recomend several "great value" courses in the area, perhaps some that have same day replay rates? $100 or less would be great unless there is a splurge that is a must play. Plan on moving from north to central to south or opposite over three days.If there is a better destination jsut let me know as I am flexible.
A:

John,

As a single you will have options when it comes to getting deals. Calling the day prior and filling a tee time, bargaining as you go is good fun.

A must  play in Florida is World Woods www.worldwoods.com in Brooksville about an hour northwest of Orlando. Try to play both 18 hole courses on property but if you get limited to one be sure to play Pine Barrens. If you are able to spend all day there the 9 hole short course is a gem.

Around Orlando Orange County National www.ocngolf.com/ is another 45 hole course that must be played. Rates there are around $100. Again try negotiating as a single. You will be filling an empty seat in a cart so you may be able to work a deal.

Southern Dunes in Haines City just west of Orlando is a great track that is in your price range. www.southerndunes.com/

Falcons Fire is another fine Orlando layout worth checking out. www.falconsfire.com/

If your budget allows for it you have to try to play Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club. Play it on a Friday around noon and you might just run into the King himself. www.bayhill.com/fw/main/Home-1.html

Enjoy,

Kevin

Miami Golf Courses
Asked by jim koczara on January 14, 2009
Q: My brother and I are going to Miami February 25 thru march 1 for a golf trip. It seems some of the courses are really expensive...over $300. Any recommendations for 5 courses to play for $100 or so that are very nice. Any way to get on the Blue Monster at a deeply discounted price? You would think with the economy being what it is, prices should come down to reflect this. Help!
A:

Jim,

Times are tough but don't look for the high season rates at the resorts to drop until the season is over. February is when the weather is at it's best and the demand the highest.

There are some good choices for far less than the $300 that has you scared.

Crandon Park at Key Biscayne is a great track with stunning views. www.crandongolfclub.com

Here is a website that can get you some good deals in the Miami area. teetimes.golfhub.com/ 

Palm Aire and Inverrary are both worth the effort.

The Club at Emerald Hills www.theclubatemeraldhills.com/index.php is actually in Hollywood but well worth the trip. If you play be sure to tell PGA Head Professional Larry Blanchard I said hello.

Enjoy,

Kevin

Golf Deals Information
Asked by Maureen on January 11, 2009
Q: There are 4 couples coming down from Canada for a month to the Cape Coral area. How do we get information on Golf deals for the month of March 2009?Thanks
A:

Maureen,

Public golf on the Cape is limited so you should expand your boundry to incluce the Ft Myers area as well.

You're best bet for "deals" is by using one of these websites. www.lastminutegolfer.com www.golfnow.com/

This site will give you current contact info for all area courses. naples.golfersguide.com/index.php

You will get the best rate but maybe not the exact time you were looking for. March is high season in Florida and tee times may be scarce.

Enjoy,

Kevin

South Beach Golf
Asked by Yuki on January 11, 2009
Q: I am traveling from Japan with my parents for a couple of weeks in the beginning of March. We will stay in South Beach. I'd love to have my father play golf while we are staying. Obviously, he has no friends or partners to play with. What can I do for him?
A:

Yuki,

Your father could fill out a foursome at any resort or public course in the Miami area. There are many to choose from.  My personal favorite in Crandon park at Key Biscayne. www.crandongolfclub.com/golf/proto/crandongolfclub/

Please refer to this website for golf course information. southflorida.golfersguide.com/

Enjoy,

Kevin

 

Orlando Golf Course
Asked by joanne gayne on January 05, 2009
Q: Could you recommend the best and least expensive courses near 0rlando (staying at Disney) in feb?
A:

Joanne,

The best courses are Orange County National, Bay Hill, the courses at Disney, Grand Cypress to name but a few. Orlando is blessed with many outstanding venues the high season of which falls in the months of January to April.

For your least expensive experience try one of the these websites.

www.lastminutegolfer.com/

www.golfnow.com/

Kevin

Asked by Greg Farnahm on January 02, 2009
Q: My wife and I are looking for a good deal for golf and lodging somewhere in Florida from Feb 23 thru March 5/6 2009
A:

Greg,

Your request for a good deal somewhere in Florida leaves a huge geographical area to choose from.

Generally speaking the further north you choose the lower the overall cost. St James Bay in Carabelle www.stjamesbay.com/has rental properties and a great golf course that is in it's "off season" play wise but the course is in terrific shape.

You will need to narrow your search geographically for me to be of further assistance.

Kevin

Asked by Mike on January 01, 2009
Q: will be living in port charllote for winter would like to know of any good practice facilities open to public without neccesaryly playing golf there.
A:

Mike,

All public courses have practice facilities open to all regardless of whether or not they play. Some in that area are Deep Creek in Punta Gorda www.deepcreekgc.com/golf/proto/deepcreekgc/index.htm

Heron Creek is another good public facility in that area. www.heron-creek.com/ as is Port Charlotte Golf Club. www.portcharlottegc.com/index.html

Once you get that swing grooved be sure to play.

Kevin

Asked by shawna on December 22, 2008
Q: hi, My husband and i are looking for a vacation home in the Miami area (25 mile radius). He is an avid golfer while I am a recreational golfer. If you were us, where would you look to live?
A:

Shawna,

You have chosen the right time to purchase a vacation home in Florida as this is a buyers market. There are so many factors to consider that I do not know where to start.

Will you be joing a private club or playing the public courses?

Is proximity to the beach a concern? How about shopping?

There are many fine choices when it comes to golf in the Miami area. When it comes to Real Estate it would be best to consult a professional in that area.

Best of luck,

Kevin

Asked by John on December 08, 2008
Q: I'm coming to Kissimmee in January. Please list golf courses that cost under $50 per round including a golf cart. Also the best bang for the $50.
A:

John,

January in Florida is peak season but with a little work and flexiblility when it comes to tee times many fine courses can be found under $50.

With the economy in the current tailspin it is in it is nearly impossible to predict what courses will be charging come January. Supply and demand will be the 2 biggest factors. Golf course operators are currently crossing thier fingers and hoping for a good season but if business is slow come January you may very well be able to find great golf in your price range.

Here are a couple of websites to help you in your search. My personal favorite is Orange County National's Panther Lake course which can probably be played for a twilight rate of around $50.

www.lastminutegolfer.com/     orlando.golfersguide.com/

Good luck and have fun.

Kevin

 

Asked by Tommy on November 24, 2008
Q: I want to get a club fitting, do you recommend Doral or Hot Stix golf in Palm Beach. How far is Palm Beach from Miami?
A:

Tommy,

I'm not sure who would do the fitting at Doral but I do know that HotStix is a leader in the industry. Palm Beach is 1-2 hours north of Miami. Clubfitting is essential to playing your best good luck with yours.

Kevin

Asked by Jerry on November 21, 2008
Q: We are two couples that vacation several times a year to play golf and enjoy life. This is our first trip to the Orlando area to indulge those pleasures. The rub is that I hate to pay rack rates for golf, and we already have accommodations. Where do I go to find discounted green fees?
A:

Jerry,

The best site is www.lastminutegolfer.com/. You may not get the exact tee time you want but will save some money.

Another site to check out is www.golfnow.com/. They are partnered with the Golf Channel.

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Joe Cronin on November 16, 2008
Q: Just moved to Miami; live in Brickell area; best country club close to Brickell?
A:

Joe,

Adios is my personal favorite private club in that area. It has some good changes in elevation for south Florida and has a lot of history. www.adiosgolfclub.org/

The Club at Emerald Hills is another favorite of mine. It plays host to qualifiers for the PGA Tour and it too has some good elevation changes. www.theclubatemeraldhills.com/

Here is a link for more choices but those are my top 2. www.floridagolferguide.com/asp/getresultsgoldcoast.asp

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Irene M Logan on November 14, 2008
Q: My husband and I will be vacationing in the Nokomis area for the month of April. Are there any packages for golfing at one course (a monthly golf membership) or multiple courses (2 rounds per course for a fixed rate)available.
A:

Irene,

I have attached a link for golf courses in the Nokomis area. I am not sure of every courses policies but with the economy the way it is I am sure one of these facilities can accomodate you and your spouse.

sarasota.golfersguide.com/component/option,com_ggms/task,course_detail/course_id,588/itemid,95/

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Larry Buren on November 13, 2008
Q: I have been hired as an oncourse Golfshop Manager, and would like to increase my modest technical knowledge of golfclubs. I am visiting Fla. for three weeks in feb.'09, and would be interested in taking some type of Clubmaking or Clubfitting courses. Can you suggest any adresses where something of this nature is offerd? Thanks,Larry BurenSwitzerland
A:

Larry,

Lucky for you the 2009 PGA Merchandise show is held each February in Orlando. There are many seminars and Demo Days that should afford you enough opportunities to enhance your skills. www.pgamerchandiseshow.com/en-us/specialeventsfeatures.cfm

Here is a list of custom club makers/fitters in Florida. Contact one near where you are visiting and I'm sure they can assist you. www.golfclubbusiness.com/index.php

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Jeff Koren on November 12, 2008
Q: I will be visiting Stuart 3-4 times a year. I noticed PGA Village is close but what other challenging golf courses are around? I am a 6 handicap so I don't mind difficult courses.
A:

Jeff,

PGA National www.pgaresort.com/ has some great courses and is just down the round in Palm Beach Gardens. Hammock Creek is the home for the Golden Bear Tour and is a Jack Nicklaus design. www.hammockcreekgolfclub.com/

For more choices use the attached link.  southflorida.golfersguide.com/component/option,com_ggms/task,course_list/region_id,16/itemid,95/

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Frank Wallus on November 12, 2008
Q: Do courses like Doral, Sawgrass, PGA, Innsbrook in florida have tours or the option to visit the course and look around for a fee. I am travelling to Florida in December and would love to visit these places but cannot afford the $ or the time to actually golf. Options? Suggestions? Thanks
A:

Frank,

The best time to visit the courses without paying the green fee is to watch the PGA Tour tournament. All the courses you listed host an event in the Spring. I have attached a link for the exact dates.

www.pgatour.com/r/schedule/

Enjoy,

Kevin

Asked by Laura on November 04, 2008
Q: My family is coming to Miami in time for Thanksgiving..never been to Miami, any suggestions for kid activities and where we should go for Thanksgiving dinner? How's the weather during that time?? "generally?"By the way.....You're Awesome!!!!
A:

Laura,

Thanks for the compliment. The weather in Miami is near perfect in November and provides many options for outdoor activities. Going to the beach, boating, fishing and shopping are some of the topics covered by my fellow experts at visitflorida.com/.

If golf is what you are looking to do a trip to Crandon Park at Key Biscayne or a round at Doral will make for a good trip.

Hope you enjoy your holiday in Miami.

Kevin

Asked by derek evans on November 04, 2008
Q: hi kevan.we are travelling from the UK and staying in sarasota area from 12/19/08until 01/02/09 my grandson who is 16 is golf crazy he plays off 3.your suggestions for challenging courses would be appreciated also whether i need to book before we arrive.regardsderek evans
A:

Derek,

Your grandson will find plenty of challenging courses in the Sarasota area. Waterlefe www.waterlefegolfandriverclub.com/ in nearby Bradenton is a great start.

Legacy Golf Club is another fine public access facility. www.legacygolfclub.com/

Those are my 2 favorite but there are so many more options. Use the attached link to garner more information. sarasota.golfersguide.com/

It is always a good idea to book tee times in advance as courses are busy this time of year. I hope you and your grandson enjoy your stay.

Regards,

Kevin

Asked by anne larsen on November 02, 2008
Q: We are travelling to Florida for one week at Spring Break. We would like to stay on the Gulf side of the ocean and golf daily.We are investigating Bradenton area. How is the golf availability and costs in this area?
A: The availability is plenty and the prices are varied. You can save some money by waiting until the last minute but you sacrifice the exact time you may want. Try this website for deals. www.lastminutegolfer.com/

For a good listing of available courses try this website. sarasota.golfersguide.com/

Bobcat Trail, University Park, and Waterlefe are my personal favorites but there are many other fine choices.

Enjoy,

Kevin
Asked by Ann Eastwood on November 01, 2008
Q: Please can you tell me the dates of the Bay Hill Golf Tournement 2009?Thanks
A: Ann,

March 23-29, 2009. Use the link below for more information and to purchase tickets.

www.arnoldpalmerinvitational.com/


Enjoy,

Kevin
Asked by Mario Fernández on October 13, 2008
Q: Hi Kevin, you told me few weeks ago that Orange county is the best option in Orlando. I`m going to play Bay hill, ocn and i need 2 more courses in Orlando. among this list, which are, in your opinion, the best 2 choices??- Osprey Ridge- Grand Cypress- Ginn reunion- Shingle creek- CelebrationThank you again Kevin
A: Mario,

In my opinion you should play Grand Cypress. Either of the 2 courses or both if possible. Next I would suggest Shingle Creek , Ginn, Osprey Ridge then Celebration.

Orlando has so many good courses to choose from you should make a point to come back on another trip to play the ones you can't this trip.

Enjoy the golf.

Kevin
Asked by Don on October 09, 2008
Q: Kevin,I will be in Orlando 11/11/08 with 3 friends to play 7 days of golf. Is there a listing of course overseeding?thanks
A: Don,

There is no listing of overseeding as each course has there own schedule. It is typically done at the end of October and the beginning of November. Not all courses overseed as some just let the Bermuda grass go dormant which makes for a great putting surface which is sometimes discolored.

Your best bet is to call each of the courses you plan on playing and ask them about their golf course conditions.

Enjoy your trip.

Kevin
Asked by Gary on October 07, 2008
Q: Hi Kevin,I am planning a golf tour to Miami next year for 10 guys from Scotland...whats the best time to visit for gaurenteed dry weather without turning our pale skin red !!cheers
A: Gary,

November, December and January are our driest months. The humidity is also very low that time of year so it makes for great golfing weather. You will still need some sunscreen but we have plenty.

Enjoy your trip.

Kevin
Asked by Susan Bosso on October 05, 2008
Q: I need information about advertising in a golf magazine. I represent a new Hampton Inn & Suites in Ocala, FL 34473. Can you please send me information?Thank you, Susan Bosso
A: Susan,

I'm not sure what kind of information you are requesting.

Do you have a particular magazine in mind and want my opinion on that particular periodical?

I'd love to be of assistance but need some more information.

Kevin
Asked by mario fernandez on September 28, 2008
Q: Hello Kevin, i`m pro player from spain and i will go to florida to play golf next March. I`ll spend 8 days in Orlando and 2-3 hours driving around. i`m thinking this route: 1º day Bay hill, 2º day (the golf course you recommend me in Orlando area), 3º day Sawgrass, 4º day off, 5º day Copperhead, 6º day Pine Barrens, 7º day Rolling oaks, 8º day (another course in Orlando).Would you change any course if you were me? Could you recommend me 2 golf courses in Orlando apart Bay hill?Thank you very much indeed Kevin.
A: Mario,

While in Orlando you should really try to play Orange County National. www.ocngolf.com/sites/courses/layout9.asp

They have 36 holes so that would take care of 2 days if you only plan on playing 18 per day.

Orlando has many other options but OCN is a golf only facility similar to World Woods that plays host to the Finals of PGA TOUR Qualifying. This way you could see how your game stacks up against those seeking membership on TOUR. www.pgatour.com/qschool/

Enjoy your stay. You have selected some outstanding venues and March is a great time of year to play in Florida.

Kevin
Asked by paul Dobner on September 08, 2008
Q: myself and 3 friends coming to tampa to play 4 rds of golf on Nov 29th.Looking for good golf courses,10 hcp-20hcps,what do you recommend
A: Paul,

The Tampa Bay area is quite large and diverse. Within an hours drive of Tampa International Airport there are some great choices.

A visit to this area must include a stop at World Woods www.worldwoods.com/fw/main/Home-1.html in Brooksvile. World Woods is a 45 hole Tom Fazio designed facility. It should be a day long affair to play all the courses.

The TPC at Tampa Bay tpctampabay.reachlocal.net/ is an excellent track located in Lutz just north Tampa that plays host to the annual Champions Tour Outback Celebrity Pro-Am. www.outbackproam.com/

Fox Hollow in nearby New Port Richey is a popular Robert Trent Jones design with huge undulating greens.
www.golfthefox.com/hollow/abouthollow.html

That takes care of 4 rounds if 36 holes are played at World Woods. For more options click on this link. tampabay.golfersguide.com/

Be sure to inquire with each course about their greens overseeding schedule. Putting green conditions are inferior from 10-14 days after overseeding.

Enjoy,

Kevin
Asked by Jo Dyson on September 04, 2008
Q: Hi Kevin! Do you know of any job openings in the shop at the Plantation or Ritz Carlton in Amelia Island? Can you put me in touch with anyone? I am an SDGA alumnus looking to move there to be with family.Thanks a million!
A: Jonathan,

I am not aware of job openings at those particular courses. My advice would be to contact the PGA Head Professional and submit your resume. If they have no openings I'm sure they could point you in the right direction. Amelia Island has many fine courses. Don't limit your search to just those two.

Best of luck,

Kevin
Asked by Diane on August 24, 2008
Q: I am looking for less challenging golf courses in the Clearwater area.
A: Diane,

Fox Hollow in New Port Richey is a very challenging course that has played host to PGA TOUR qualifiers. www.golfthefox.com/hollow/abouthollow.html

Dunedin Country Club is a Donald Ross design that is well worth playing. www.dunedincc.com/

Bardmoor is another former PGA TOUR venue located in Largo. It played host to the mixed team Championship known as the JC Penney Classic. www.bardmoorgolf.com/

These are your best bets for challenging public golf in the Clearwater area.

Have fun!

Kevin
Asked by Kelly on August 24, 2008
Q: I'm looking to get a lesson from Doug Mochrie but I've been told his course, Sunshine Golf, was shut down. Can you tell me if he is still teaching and how I go about contacting him for a lesson?
A: Kelly,

I do not know Doug personally but when I Googled him I found he was listed as the golf professional at Sunrise not Sunshine golf. Here is a link to their course. Good luck in your search. www.golflink.com/golf-courses/course.asp

Kevin
Golf in Destin
Asked by Steve on August 17, 2008
Q: What is the best time to play in Destin Florida, Oct,Nov,Dec,Jan
A: Steven,

Weather wise October in Florida is hard to beat. The weather in November, December and January is nice as well but not as predictable. The one thing to be aware of is golf course overseeding. This is done in either October or November and can result in less than favorable course conditions. Just be sure to ask when their overseeding took place when making your tee time. Once the seed has been put down it usually takes 2 weeks to grow in and be mowed to an enjoyable height.

Destin has some great courses. Enjoy your game.

Kevin
Asked by Rhonda on August 14, 2008
Q: Looking for a great place to stay for 2 women (non-golfers) and a great place to golf for 2 men. Women would like something to do while men golf. Any suggestions on good hotel locations/golf courses for a weekend in late September somewhere within 3 hours drive from Tampa?
A: Rhonda,

There are many options for golf within 3 hours of Tampa. The Orlando area has many fine resorts where the guys can play golf while the ladies enjoy shopping and perhaps a day at the Spa. Here are my Orlando suggestions.
Grand Cypress www.grandcypress.com/
Ginn Reunion www.reunionresort.com/
ChampionGate www.championsgategolf.com/
Shingle Creek www.rosenshinglecreek.com/

Staying closer to Tampa you can find great golf and more at the following resorts.
The Vinoy in St. Petersburg www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpasr-renaissance-vinoy-resort-and-golf-club/
Innisbrook   www.innisbrookgolfresort.com/
Ritz Carlton in Sarasota    www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Default.htm

By staying closer to Tampa you can spend the day at the beach while the guys golf. There are some great beaches here on the gulf coast. Check out visitfloridas beach expert  blog for some suggestions.

September is a great time to visit Florida. Enjoy your trip.



Amateur Golf in Orlando
Asked by CATHERINE MONAGHAN on July 28, 2008
Q: hi, my hubby & i in orlando for week in aug. we are enthusiastic amateurs only. where can we play and not feel silly. need to hire clubs also.
A: Catherine,

Orlando has many fine courses, most of which have rental clubs available. One of the prettiest and most playable is Orange County National www.ocngolf.com/sites/courses/layout9.asp

This facility is located near Disney and has 2 18 hole championship  courses that have hosted the finals for the PGA Tour Qualifying Tournament. www.pgatour.com/qschool/leaderboard/

If 18 holes are too much they also have a 9 hole short course that is kept in the same fine condition as the 18 hole courses.

Anther option would be Falcon's Fire which is located on the opposite side of Interstate 4 from Orange County National. www.falconsfire.com/

These are 2 options I highly recommend but here is a list of other Orlando courses.

Remember to pack your sunscreen and try to play early as Florida in August is known for afternoon rain showers. Enjoy your stay.

Kevin





      
Golf and Fishing in March
Asked by Bryan Eeles on July 23, 2008
Q: Hoping to vacation on gulf side in March(not actual break) for quiet,some fishing and golf.What area has a good selection of courses with reasonable green fees?Thanks
A: Bryan,

March is a great time of year in Florida. It is also the end of our peak golfing season. Fishing in the gulf is done from Pensacola to Naples. The closer you are to Naples the higher your golf fee's are going to be but the warmer your weather is likely to be. Your best bet for low rates is to use an online booking agency which golf courses use to liquidate available tee times. One of the best is www.lastminutegolfer.com/

First decide where on Florida's west coast you want to vacation then use this website to get your best rate. Be sure to contact our visitflorida fishing expert to get a better idea of the type of fishing you want to do in between rounds of golf. visitflorida.com/experts/boating_and_fishing/

Best of luck on the links and on the water!

Kevin

   
Where to play year round?
Asked by Richard on July 21, 2008
Q: Hello Kevin,I am an avid player, planning on retiring to a golf lifestyle soon. I know little about Florida and was curious to know where in the state the best year-round playability locations are. Based on low rain days, not extreme hot humid temps, and reasonably priced tracks where in the state would you suggest I begin to research?Thanks,Richard
A: Richard,

Heat and humidity are as much a part of Florida as beaches. Fortunately this weather lasts only from late April until late September. During this time of year courses that are closer to the beach are more tolerable temperature wise because of the daily sea breeze. Rain during this time is mostly in the afternoon so early morning tee times are a must to insure a complete round of golf. Late afternoon tee times after the storms is another nice time to play.

During the months of October through April most of the states precipitation is related to cold fronts moving through the state. This rain is often short lived and the further south in the state you are the less likely you are to encounter these cold fronts.

Golf course rates are seasonal. Florida's peak golf season is in the winter months. This is when the golf courses throughout the state will be the busiest and will charge accordingly. There are many fine public facilities throughout the state. These facilities are all looking for more players and many of them have partnered with online booking agencies to offer deals. One of the best is www.lastminutegolfer.com

Pick a part of the state you would like to visit then check this website to get your best rate. Best of luck in your search.






   
Correcting Hooks
Asked by Corey on July 08, 2008
Q: Hi Kevin,Do you have any tips to correct my hooks off the tee? I feel like the club gets too inside on the downswing, thus I have to flip it with my hands ! Any suggestions???? Thanks !
A: Corey,

You, of all the people I know, want to hook it as it helps your overall distance. Hitting it far is fundamental to your well being. However, should you ever care more about accuracy then I would recommend you getting your left arm plane and shoulder plane more in synch and learn to hit the ball with more of a rotary move of your torso. This should keep your hands a bit more passive.  While giving up a few yards in length you will more than make up for it in accuracy. Hope all is well at Debary CC. They are lucky to have you as their PGA Professional.
Play at Temple Terrace?
Asked by David Dodd on July 01, 2008
Q: Are you playing golf with Bobby Peterson Wednesday?
A: Yes I am scheduled to at Temple Terrace Country Club with Bobby and his brother in law.



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