
Courses of the World: Dubai is a land of endless wealth, where the sheiks’ pockets are far deeper than the Persian Gulf. There are massive manmade islands in the shape of palm trees, shopping mall with 3.7 million square feet of retail space, and hotel with a solid gold flagpole at its entrance. Dubai’s most popular golf course is equally grand. The Montgomerie is named for course architect Colin Montgomerie, who filled the 265 acres with 14 manmade lakes, 81 bunkers, and 93 acres of landscaped gardens. Two holes that deserve special mention are the par-3 13th with its island green shaped like the United Arab Emirates, and the par-5 finale that’s 656 yards from the back tees. For more information, please visit www.themontgomerie.com.
X Marks The Spot
Tiger Woods observes a special occasion the old fashioned way: with a limited edition set of spikes
In 1997, Tiger Woods attacked Augusta National like Godzilla in black slacks. He brutalized The Masters, shooting an 18-under par 270. It set a tournament record, and more importantly gave Woods his first major. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Tiger’s first major, Nike Golf has introduced Tiger Woods Limited Edition footwear. The line features four different styles of spikes, one for each of the four major championships in 2007. With The Masters and U.S. Open now passed, fans can pick up the editions for the British Open (black/varsity crimson) and PGA Championship (white/black/dusty red). Shoes priced at $220. For more information, please visit www.nikegolf.com.
But Of Course
A compilation of A-list golf resorts across the globe
Bunker shots in Buckinghamshire, long putts in Los Cabos, seven-iron approaches in Singapore. Envision your dream round (and avoid airport security) with the help of Luxury Hotels: Golf Resorts, a compilation of the best golf resorts around the globe. Homebodies need not apply: the only “local” resort is the Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North. Beyond that, you’re looking at a cross-continental trip to places like The Datai in Malaysia, Kauri Cliffs Lodge in New Zealand (15 holes tiptoe alongside cliffs that face the Pacific), and the Rio Real Golf Hotel in Marbella, Spain (featuring the verdant, eye-popping course design of Javier Arana). In total, the 220-page book covers 48 resorts, illustrated via 360 crisp color photographs.
SEEN & HEARD: Cold Canyon Club
Hang around the Cold Water Canyon clubhouse, and you’ll hear the phrase “top the 27.” Don’t worry: there’s no cryptic Skull & Bones or Da Vinci Code stuff happening here. The term refers to the course’s long-standing record — a 27 on the front nine — achieved by Hugh Byington in 1939. The historic front nine in Wisconsin Dells opened in 1923 (it expanded to 18 in 1999), and local golfer Byington shot his six under par nearly 70 years ago. For the 2007 season, Cold Water Canyon has a standing challenge to “top the 27.” Says Cold Water Canyon pro Pat Furca: “It would be a great honor, and of course, give bragging rights for whoever beats the record.” Players should be warned: the front nine is cut with canyons and lined with massive Norway and white pines. Interested parties can schedule a tee time by calling 800-388-4782 or by visiting www.wisconsindellsgolf.com.
Swing Time
The legend has inspired books, movies, equipment,
and now Bobby Jones Timepieces
Bobby Jones, one of the sport’s original icons, managed to build his legend in 14 short years; he retired at age 28. Since passing away in 1971, the Bobby Jones brand has spread into myriad industries: books (Amazon.com lists 50-plus tomes on Jones), film (check out Jim Caviezel in the entertaining yet flawed Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius), and fashion (his namesake line features sweaters, polos, knits, belts, bags and accessories). Perhaps the slickest items bearing Jones’ swooping signature are the timepieces. There are several different lines, but two of them stand out. The XH20 Chronograph Series features solid stainless steel case, quartz movement, and water resistance up to 100 meters. The Logo Series is a more extroverted, colorful assortment of watches. The company logo — Jones in his follow-through — is woven on each strap. Prices range from $195 to $295. For more information, visit www.bobbyjonesshop.com.
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