Believe it or not, for over 400 hundred years, golf balls were made entirely of wood; this of course meant a golf ball that fared feebly in terms of aerodynamics and the like. This poor state of affairs persisted until the invention of what we now call the feathery ball (also known as the feather or featherie ball). The feathery ball itself was hand sewn cowhide outside, and very tightly packed goose feathers inside (hence the name). The leather and feathers were boiled separately and then hastily formed together into a ball before anything began drying. At the time this was a revolutionary invention that really added a lot of new dynamics to the game of golf; this ball was not only hard, but could fly over 250 yards, and was generally far superior in terms of flight characteristics to its wooden forbearers.

The feathery ball would not be dethroned for over 200 years. There were of course downsides to this design; even the best artisan could only churn out feathery balls at a rate of three or four per day, and a single ball cost the equivalent of $20 nowadays. And the feathery ball still shared the wooden ball’s propensity for irregular flight patterns.

In 1848 the game of golf was once more revolutionized, this time by the Reverend and Doctor Robert Adams Patterson. He invented the gutta-percha ball, often time’s referred to as the gutta ball. This golf ball was derived from dried tree sap, which lent it a rubbery feel and allowed for a more perfectly round figure. The appearance of the gutta ball coincided with the discovery that a ball would fly a more accurate trajectory if it had little imperfections in it, and manufactures began to purposely nick their products. In just a few years time, the gutta ball fully replaced the feathery ball as the preeminent golf ball. The reign of the gutta ball would be short-loved compared to that of the feathery…

Less than a century after Robert Adams Patterson unleashed his gutta-percha ball on the world of golf, multi-layered balls were developed, by an Ohioan named Coburn Haskell. The first multi-layered consisted of covered rubber tightly wound around a soft or hard core. These so-called wound balls quickly gained widespread appeal and remained present in the sport of golf up until the end of the 20th century.

Modern balls are still multi-layered but are now composed of the synthetic materials surlyn or urethane. They are either two, three, or four layers, habitually depending on the skill level of the player using the balls (the lower swing speeds of the less skilled, and their habit of losing balls often, suite them better to two-layered balls, while a pro would gravitate towards three or four-layered balls). Golf ball manufacturers can now apply the power of computers to fine-tuning golf balls, and are able to create a plethora of different types of balls, each with specific characteristics. Yes, we’ve definitely come a long way since the wooden golf ball…

In Hawaii golf courses are plentiful and as challengingly varied as any lover of the game could dream to find. Hawaii has a typically tropical climate but is a little less extreme due to the trade winds from the East which make it a very enjoyable experience. Although the temperatures fluctuate slightly in winter they are fairly constant with summer highs usually in the upper 80s °F, (around 31°C) during the day and mid 70s, (around 24 °C) at night. Each of the islands has its own distinctive geological and vegetative profiles. The combination of Hawaii’s volcanic proximity and lush weather conditions make for some unusual and distinctive course features.

Obviously trying to describe each course would be impossible in such an article due to the massive selection available but I would like to introduce you to a few of what I believe to be the more well known clubs. Firstly, I would like to introduce the Fazio Course at Turtle Bay Resort which is the proud host of the LPGA Tour’s Hawaiian Open. This golf course is famous for its lengthy fairways, complex bunkers and craftily designed greens. In fact, this course has the privilege of having been trod by gurus like Arnold Palmer, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Gary Player and Sam Sneed in the very first Senior Skins Game.

Being Irish, the Dunes At Maui Lani Golf Course also appealed to my instinct because of its similarities to Irish type golf courses. The rugged landscape has been responsible for folks drawing this comparison, and rightly so! The course boasts 18 of the most challenging links style holes in the world and has been chosen as on of the “Best Kept Secret Golf Courses in America” by Golf Digest. Being aptly named due to the abundance of dunes dimpling the terrain it is somewhat of an eco design in the way that the fairways have a mainly symbiotic relationship with the earth by going over dunes rather than through them. It has been likened to the world renowned “Ballybunion Golf Course” in county Kerry, Ireland.

For a totally exotic experience you might like to indulge in Ko’olau Golf Club which has been artistically sculpted out of a tropical rain forest by legendary golf course designer Dick Nugent. This “Garden of Eden” environment cannot be missed as it is a true treasure not only to behold but also to play. Ever changing levels of elevation, majestic waterfalls and winding pathways make this a place which captivates the soul. The 2,000-foot Ko’olau Ridge mountain range overlooking the scenery with godlike presence and the fact that the course actually offers “three” climates in one round has to be enough of a temptation to lure the doubter to this magnificent heavenly location.

For more information about Hawaii tee times just come by and say Aloha!

But of most interest to you guys will be the vast assortment of golf courses to choose from on this petite paradise. Hilton Head Golf is a term that anybody involved in the sport is sure to have heard, and justly so, due to the 24 exquisitely designed golf courses waiting to be explored and played in this friendliest of locations.

Among the most prestigious courses are Harbour Town Golf Links and Long Cove Club (which is private) and they are ranked 67th and 68th respectively within the best courses in the country. Harbour Town is the home of the annual Verizon Heritage PGA Tour which takes place on this wonderful course each April. Another advantage to golfing on Hilton Head Island is the constant year round sub tropical climate, sunny blue skies and perfect greens making them a true pleasure to play.

The fact that there are so many golf courses in such a small area also has another added bonus. These courses were designed by some of the most well known names in golf course architecture (including George and Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills, Rees and Robert Trent Jones, Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, George Cobb, Gary Player, Fuzzy Zoeller and Willard Byrd) so playing more than one course while visiting Hilton Head Island is something one should simply take for granted. It would be a shame not to sample the complete menu. And although one could visit the region for a short golf break, in my opinion it is better to make your stay at least a fortnight long in order to sample as many of these great courses as possible.

Hilton Head Island has also gained the reputation as a kind of golfers Mecca due to the fact that so many golfers of all levels often come here to practice all every aspect of the game including putting, swing therapy and their short game. In fact, there are many opportunities to participate in private or group golf clinics, lessons from top class pros or hit a few buckets of balls on the driving range between games to sharpen your game. The possibilities are limitless, but one thing is fore sure, you will be in heaven on Hilton Head Island and you will without doubt improve both your game and your life through your stay!

For more information on hilton head tee times click this link.

The most popular area for playing golf is The Algarve derived from the Arabic language which means “the west”. It has an area of 5,412 square kilometers with approximately 410,000 permanent inhabitants, and incorporates 16 municipalities. The Algarve is within easy reach from all European cities being no more than a 2 – 3 hour flight making it quite accessible. Like Turkey and Majorca, Portugal’s high season is during the winter and spring season making it a great place for short breaks in cold weather because of its moderate climate. There are sometimes light showers during the peak golf season which may contribute to the hesitance of golfers to experience this heaven on Earth. Wind is another factor that comes into play with the trade winds often reaching force seven but any really competitive golfer shouldn’t want to play without some form of climatic challenges. After all, any “middle of the road” golfer can play in static conditions but the great players are able to be victorious no matter what Mother Nature chooses to throw at them.

Ponte de Lima Golf Course, which is nestled among hills and vineyards, is a typical example of a golf course in this region. The first 9 holes are sprinkled with really old trees making it both a wonderful sight to behold and a tricky test for even the most seasoned players. The eighth hole is one of the longest holes in Europe stretching some 622 meters but being a par 5 makes it realistically achievable.

Aroeira Golf Course is a championship course located next to a river which offers breathtaking scenery and is a mere stones throw from Lisbon. On a clear day the Portuguese capital can be seen from the first tee. This course is actually within a nature park filled with rare birds, flowers and other marvelous wildlife. British newspaper journalists christened this course the “Wentworth of Lisbon” because of the similarities between Aroeira and the famous London club.

Parque da Floresta which is the final course from our Portuguese golf course selection is arguably, as the saying goes, saving the best for last. Situated above a fishing village, its awe inspiring panorama tends to disguise how tricky this course can actually be to conquer. Sporting an intricate network of obstacles including bunkers, lakes, twisted wild rough and knotted trees it really makes you work for your wages. Parque da Floresta was designed one of Spain’s most well known architects whose “non intrusive” approach to building golf courses meant changing the original landscape as little as possible. The olive, palm and pine trees give it somewhat of a Mediterranean feeling. This course is truly remarkable.

Portugal is a fantastic place to play golf and just because it isn’t among the trendiest destinations for golfers to visit doesn’t mean that it isn’t among the best to play. It would be well worth your while considering this land when next booking a getaway because the experience will be absolutely unforgettable.

Visit this site for more information about playing Golf in Portugal.

Phil, who is no stranger to California Golf Courses, in particular Pebble Beach, having won the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am in 1998, returned this year to attempt to take the trophy back but was pipped at the post by Dustin Johnson who finished 16 under to quench Phil’s -11 challenge. According to his website readers, who have released an unofficial 2010 PGA schedule, he is due to play in Pebble beach again in June where he will compete for the prestigious U.S. Open Championship title. He may find this years competition a little tricky on the Arnold Palmer course because it has been primed with some new enhancements in order to make the contest more of a battle. Pebble Beach Golf Links official website enlightens us by quoting the following:

“In preparation, Pebble Beach has unveiled a number of course enhancements, all under the direction of legendary champion and course designer Arnold Palmer. Pebble Beach Golf Links has recently been strengthened to enhance player appreciation, heighten the challenge and exceed guest and championship expectations.”

This will be the fifth time that the resort has hosted this event and the feeling I get from the build up to this spectacular is that both the players and spectators are in for a sweet treat. Phil, who in the past was like many golfers has had his share of injuries inflicted by the rigorous strain the game can put on both the body and mind looks to be in good shape for this years schedule. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. On the negative side, a little scandal seems to have erupted at the beginning of this year concerning the use of an illegal wedge. Fellow PGA Tour professional Scott McCarron accused him of “cheating” for using the Ping Eye 2 wedge, a club featuring squared grooves that have been banned as of January 1. Despite this controversy, I believe that Phil will go on to surprise his fans yet again and show his rivals exactly what he is made of by putting up a square challenge and taking home a good fistful of accolades to boot.

“To give yourself the best possible chance of playing to your potential, you must prepare for every eventuality. That means practice.”

These words of wisdom come from Spain’s Seve Ballesteros who is without a doubt one of the best golfers the world has ever known. He was also an excellent character to watch because of the high emotion he expressed towards his game and the passion for winning he displayed in tournament play. His skillful shooting has often been described as some of the highest quality plays the game has ever experienced. Seve has played golf since the age of 3 and it was a mixture of natural skill and pure determination that took him to the uppermost ranks of the game. He will be remembered as a legend in his home land.

José María Olazábal is also no slacker in terms of big contributions to the golf scene and in fact holds the world record for the putt completed over the longest distances when he made a shot which travelled the full length of a Concorde cabin (27 seconds). The plane was travelling at 1270 MPH affording him a total ball distance of just over 9 miles.

“I was just lucky enough to be born in the middle of a golf course. Before the course was built, that was a farm.”

And let’s not forget the highly talented Sergio García whose prowess has terrified and overshadowed some of Americas finest players. Sergio also began the game at the age of three and became famous for the “waggle” (gripping and releasing the shaft multiple times like it was a wet slippery fish) which he displays in the build up to a shot. Unfortunately, this often frustrated spectators who would sometimes yell for him to hurry up and “take the damn shot!” He also dated the famous tennis player Martina Hingis but remains a very wealthy bachelor with a passion for fast sports cars.

“My swing works for me, so why should I change it? I prefer to have a natural swing and play well rather than a perfect swing and not be able to play good.”

Spain is also a perfect paradise if you are thinking of a European golf vacation. They have some of the finest resorts in Europe one of which is the famous “La Manga Resort” which flaunts top class pampering with cutting edge, pristine golf courses. The region consists of three main golf courses. The South course, which had a revamp by the legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, is a tricky yet fair round of golf and definitely a memorable one. The North course, which is somewhat more difficult due to the “trick shots” which are often necessary, is more for the adventurous player. And the West course, which although possesses many par 3 holes making it more leisurely, also has very narrow fairways demanding more conservative tee shots. This resort is well worth checking as both the Spanish weather and hospitality must be experienced to be believed. Did I mention that the accommodation is top class? Combine that with top class 24 hour beach entertainment (including bars, restaurants and clubs) and you have a holiday to be remembered. Bienvenidos!

This relatively new project is the brainchild of two local businessmen who decided to transform a 160 acre area of raw farmland into what has become an internationally famous course which continues to build up a loyal following from year to year. The golf course which was co-designed by the “big hitter” John Daly (winner of many majors and one of the most loved characters in Golf) and is his first venture in Europe is a magnificent course containing some fantastically challenging holes. The course meanders through the wild countryside panorama which is sure to both delight both your love for the game and your passion for beauty. Blarney Golf Resort is also known for it’s immaculately well kept greens which are always a delight for any golfer. Despite donning a sophisticated facade this golf paradise is extremely child friendly in it’s approach to family golf.

What most distinguishes this resort from the more traditional clubs is the fact that the four star hotel which is nearby also has the ultra-modern conference and meeting facilities making it the perfect gathering place for international business events. Choices of accommodation include either luxury bedrooms in the hotel or private 2 bedroom lodges of equally high standard. Blarney Golf Resort is a true example of how a dreams can become reality with proper planning and true Irish dedication. It also helps when such a project is drawn up by two people who are already themselves very successful business people. It is a suburb location both for international company outings and serious business meetings alike. After golf relaxation is made even more comfy by the luxury “Lions Den Bar” which is also which is home to a high class a la carte gourmet resturant.

There are many activities available in the area including shopping in the modern stores of Cork City and of course no visit to Blarney would be complete without a visit to the famous Blarney Stone (which is only a stones throw away…forgive the pun) and is supposed to endow all who kiss it with “gift of the gab”. (the ability to speak without breathing)

All in all I can highly recommend Blarney Golf Resort and you can rest assured you will be pampered throughout your stay!

There are two golf courses here, the Old Course (6950 Yards) and the Castle Course (5556 Yards), I particularly prefer the Castle Course because of the superior view that it offers. Lahinch Golf Course attracts visitors from all over the world so once they have experienced the friendliness of both the club and the local folks they can’t wait to return for another visit.

The course is particularly famous in Ireland because it hosts the oldest provincial tournament in the country, “The South of Ireland Championship”. The event has been held here since 1895 and the locals are very proud to have hosted this tournament for so many years. Both of the courses (Old and Castle) offer immense challenge to golf players of all levels and some say that unless you have played this course that your golf education is incomplete. The clubhouse which is always maintained in top condition has an excellent view of the courses early tees and offers guests excellent facilities including their pristine restaurant and bar.

Adjoining the course is the finest hotel in town which proudly displays 4 stars and they are well deserved. The 144 bedroom hotel which also overlooks the beach offers visitors some fantastic services including a 17 meter swimming pool, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and an amazing outdoor hot tub where you can spoil yourself after a competitive round of golf. The hotel also offers local activities in conjunction with the surf club, cruise/boat trips and guided tours through areas of historical interest. This area in General is great for families or singles and one of the best experiences I had there was a boat trip to see dolphins jumping which was definitely a life changing experience. Of course lazing on the beach is also an option or why not check out the harbor where the fisherman sell fresh fish delicacies. Or if you are feeling frisky then walking the long beach may be your cup of tea.

Two of Ireland’s most famous wonders “Cliffs of Moher” and “The Burren” lie only a few miles away by car but are well worth a visit. Of course if you prefer the quiet life then perhaps a pint of Guinness and a chat with the locals in one of the many local village bars would be more up your street.

For more info about the area click this link : Lahinch Failte

Ever since my teenage years, when I used to caddy for my father when he played tournaments, I have been fascinated by this course for so many reasons that I hardly know where to begin. But the most vivid memory, even after all these years, is the fact that no matter what the weather was like, I always felt at one with nature whenever I walked the plush green paths of this magnificent course.

Adare, which has earned the coveted title of “The Prettiest Village In Ireland”, is located in the South West approx. 20 minutes from Limerick city and 40 minutes from Shannon Airport making it easily accessible. Shannon is an international hub airport so reaching it from anywhere in the world is an effortless task. Car Rental from the airport is covered by multiple well-known agencies (Avis, Hertz, Sixt etc.) whose staff will undoubtedly treat you to a loving spoonful of genuine Irish hospitality.

The Desmond Castle (1200 ad) is a magnificent backdrop to the 1st and 15th greens, while the ruins of the Franciscan Abbey (1464 ad) dominate the centre of the course.

This beautiful parkland course is sprinkled with lush mature trees and aquatic features created by the intricate interweaving of the magical river Maigue through this beautiful, well-maintained Avalon-like Golf course. No matter how challenging a shot may be one finds that the astounding beauty of this landscape seems to induce a calm feeling over any golfer who strolls her fairways. The atmosphere conjures up images of days long gone and the feeling of being surrounded by something powerfully ancient.

Having said that; the courses facilities are among the best and most modern available anywhere. The club restaurant provides a top class menu although pre-booking is highly advisable. For such a “once in a lifetime experience” facility, the green fee prices are ridiculously reasonable and if you don’t feel like lugging your clubs around, there are high quality sets available to hire at the clubhouse.

After enjoying your round of Golf you will be pleased to learn that the pampering has only just begun. The five star Adare Manor Hotel which is only a three minute walk from the last green has every facility imaginable including several gourmet restaurants, The Treatment Rooms (for relaxing the body and soul) and lively entertainment in the hotels elegant bars. The rooms are naturally exquisite which is exactly what one should expect from a hotel of this caliber.

I cannot recommend this resort highly enough but in order to truly experience the magic of this location one must actually partake of its magnificence. It is something that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

For more information on Adare you can check out the village’s website.