Oct 16, 2025

Revisiting Turning Stone Resort - Father-Son Golf Trip - Oneida County

Father and Son Return to Turning Stone: A Golf Trip Seven Years in the Making

Seven Years can pass in the blink of an eye. The last time my son, Gus, and I teed it up at Turning Stone Resort, he was just 10 years old — more focused on hitting the cart horn and chasing golf balls than keeping score. This fall, we came back, now with Gus in his late teens, ready to take on the big courses for real. What we found was the same world-class golf destination we remembered, but with a whole new sense of fun, challenge, and connection.

The Return to Turning Stone

Turning Stone Resort, in Verona, New York, remains one of the best golf destinations in the Northeast — a mix of championship-calibre courses, top-notch facilities, and the kind of hospitality that makes every visit feel special. For us, it was the perfect setting for a father-and-son golf reunion.

We planned three rounds: the mighty Atunyote, the scenic Shenandoah, and a relaxed late afternoon spin around the par-3 Sandstone Hollow.


Atunyote – The Big Stage

Our trip started at Atunyote, the crown jewel of Turning Stone and former host of the PGA Tour’s Turning Stone Championship. The moment you turn onto that private entrance road, you know you’re somewhere special.

The course was immaculate(even though it had been recently aerated) — wide fairways framed by pristine bunkering, still fast greens, and flawless conditioning from tee to green. Gus couldn’t get over how “tour-ready” it looked, and I couldn’t help but think how far his game (and patience!) had come since our first visit.

It’s a course that demands respect but rewards good golf shots. We didn’t light up the scoreboard, but we had our moments — a beautiful chip in birdie on the 2nd hole, a clutch par save from the rough on 18. It was golf at its purest — challenging, beautiful, and shared between father and son.




 Hollow – The Perfect Finish

After Atunyote, we decided we needed more golf and shuttled over to play Sandstone Hollow, the resort’s fun and underrated par-3 course designed by Rick Smith. It’s short, scenic, and ideal for winding down the day.

We made a friendly match out of it — no pressure, just some good-natured competition. Gus edged me out by one stroke, earning bragging rights and proving that the student may have finally passed the teacher.

Sandstone Hollow was the perfect closing note for the day— a reminder of how golf brings generations together, from first swings to full-grown games.




Shenandoah – Rain, Laughs, and Memories

The next day brought steady rain and gray skies, but that didn’t stop us. Shenandoah may not have the tournament pedigree of Atunyote, but it’s every bit as enjoyable. The course twists through wooded terrain and wetlands, offering a mix of strategy and scenery.


Despite the soggy weather, the course held up impressively. The greens rolled true, the fairways drained well, and the staff made sure everyone still felt welcome. Gus and I laughed our way through the puddles — the kind of round that reminds you that golf isn’t just about scores; it’s about stories.

Walking off that final green, I couldn’t help but think back to our first trip — Gus barely tall enough to see over the steering wheel of the golf cart, now driving it like a pro and outdriving me on half the holes. Turning Stone hadn’t changed much: still beautifully maintained, still welcoming, still first-class in every detail. But what had changed was us — and that made the return all the more meaningful.

Turning Stone gave us more than just great golf. It gave us a chance to reconnect, to laugh, and to measure time not in years, but in fairways walked and memories made.





May 15, 2025

Review of Old Tom Morris at Cullen Links – A Canadian Perspective

Review of Cullen Links – Old Tom Morris - A Canadian Perspective

As a Canadian golf enthusiast accustomed to wide fairways, lush parkland courses, and modern layouts, playing Cullen Links in northeast Scotland was a refreshingly unique experience. This is links golf in its rawest, most traditional form — quirky, historic, and charmingly rugged.

Designed in part by Old Tom Morris, Cullen is short by modern standards (barely 4,600 yards), but don’t let the yardage fool you. The course is carved through dramatic red sandstone cliffs with blind shots, towering rock formations, and fairways that twist and tumble unpredictably. It forces creativity, precision, and a sense of humour — especially when sharing fairways or dodging coastal winds.




From a Canadian lens, it’s like stepping back in time. No GPS, no fancy clubhouse — just pure golf with breathtaking North Sea views. It’s not for everyone, but if you value heritage, challenge, and storytelling over scorecards, Cullen is a hidden gem worth the pilgrimage.

Verdict: A quirky, unforgettable links experience that contrasts beautifully with North American golf sensibilities. Bring your imagination and leave your ego at the first.







May 4, 2025

Galway Bay Golf Resort Review

Galway Bay Golf Resort is an absolute treat — the kind of place that makes a golf-loving Canadian feel right at home, but with way better scenery and accents. The course rolls along the stunning Galway coastline, offering jaw-dropping views on just about every hole, and the layout strikes that sweet spot between challenging and enjoyable.



The fairways are generous (thankfully), the greens run true, and there’s enough variety to keep things interesting without making you want to throw your clubs into the bay. The clubhouse is everything you hope for in Ireland — warm, welcoming, and fully prepared to serve up a well-earned pint after the round.












As a Canadian, I couldn’t help but fall for the charm of the place. It’s not just a round of golf; it’s an experience — one part great course, one part Irish hospitality, and one part “why don’t I live here?” I’d go back in a heartbeat, and next time, I’m bringing friends

Nov 20, 2024

**Review: SeeMore Mini Giant HT Black HTX Putter**


The SeeMore Mini Giant HT Black HTX is a putter that perfectly balances innovative design, premium craftsmanship, and a sleek aesthetic. Here’s an in-depth look at its performance and standout features:  


### **Design and Aesthetics**  

The black matte finish gives the Mini Giant HTX a professional, clean look, reducing glare and adding sophistication. Its compact head size makes it more appealing to golfers who prefer a minimalist design without sacrificing performance. The alignment aids, a hallmark of SeeMore putters, are well-integrated and effective, guiding your stroke with precision.  


### **Performance**  

The HTX excels in stability and forgiveness. Its larger-than-standard mallet head is well-balanced, thanks to the strategic use of milled aluminum and steel, which shifts the weight for optimal MOI (Moment of Inertia). This design ensures consistent performance on off-center hits, making it ideal for players seeking reliability.  


The patented RifleScope Technology (RST) remains one of the standout features. It simplifies proper alignment by helping you square the face to your intended target line effortlessly. For golfers struggling with alignment, this feature is a game-changer.  


### **Feel and Feedback**  

The Mini Giant HTX delivers a soft yet solid feel, particularly appealing to those who value feedback on the greens. The milled face produces a satisfying roll with minimal skidding, improving consistency.  


### **Who Is It For?**  

This putter suits a wide range of golfers, from high handicappers looking for added forgiveness to lower handicappers who value precision and customization. It's also an excellent choice for those who prefer a mallet-style putter without the bulky appearance of traditional mallets.  


### **Pros:**  

- Sleek, glare-free black finish.  

- Exceptional alignment technology (RST).  

- High stability and forgiveness on off-center hits.  

- Smooth, consistent roll.  

- Compact mallet design for versatile appeal.  


### **Cons:**  

- Premium price point may deter budget-conscious golfers.  

- Compact size might feel too small for those used to larger mallets.  


### **Final Verdict**  

The SeeMore Mini Giant HT Black HTX is a superbly engineered putter that delivers on both performance and aesthetics. Whether upgrading your putter or improving alignment and consistency, this is a worthy investment for serious golfers. Its blend of cutting-edge features and classic design makes it a standout addition to any golfer’s bag.  


**Rating: 4.8/5**



Nov 17, 2024

Jersey Ninja - 4th of July Bomb Pops on Blue Performance Golf Polo Review

It was late June, and I realized my golf wardrobe needed a serious upgrade—lots of boring grey and dull colours. Although I've been quiet on social media and conducted very few reviews over the last few years, I've contacted companies through my Instagram feed to see if they'd be interested in a golf apparel review. When I started this blogging and writing gig, I had a great rapport with Puma and was doing many reviews of their apparel and shoes; getting golf stuff for review had now faded over the years. 


Why not upgrade my boring attire? Yes, I was busy with my full-time job and working five mornings a week at the golf course, but I needed an upgrade, and honestly, that old adage, "Look good, feel good," I think I needed to feel some of that.


I sent out many requests for reviews. I hadn't realized that, over the years, golf apparel companies had taken on a life of their own. There are so many unique products; some are known to me, and others are not. Many companies were excellent at offering me discounts. However, Jersey Ninja, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, offered to send me a polo for free to review. 


I decided to step outside my comfort zone and ordered the 4th of July Bomp Pops on a Blue Performance Polo.


When it arrived in a very short time from the States, I was pleasantly surprised.


Review of the 4th of July Bomb Pops on Blue Performance Polo by Jersey Ninja

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5 Stars)


If you're looking for a shirt that screams summer patriotism with a side of playful nostalgia, the 4th of July Bomb Pops on Blue Performance Polo by Jersey Ninja is an absolute winner. Here's my breakdown of this eye-catching piece:


Design

The polo features a vibrant blue base adorned with a scattered pattern of red, white, and blue Bomb Pops, instantly evoking memories of hot summer days and the tunes of an ice cream truck. It's both festive and fun without going over the top. The design is bold yet understated, striking a balance between casual and stylish for holiday events.


Comfort

This performance polo delivers in the comfort department. The fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, perfect for staying cool during July's sweltering heat. It moves well with you and doesn't cling uncomfortably, even in humid conditions.


Fit

The fit is modern and tailored without being restrictive. It looks sharp tucked in for a semi-formal barbecue or untucked for a laid-back fireworks viewing. The sizing feels true to standard measurements, although those who prefer a looser fit may want to consider going up a size.


Durability

After several washes, the polo holds its colour and shape nicely, with no visible fading or pilling. The print quality is solid, and the Bomb Pops pattern remains vivid and intact.


Versatility

While it's clearly themed for the 4th of July, this polo is versatile enough to wear throughout the summer. Pair it with chinos for a casual Friday or with shorts for a beach outing.


Room for Improvement

The only slight drawback is the price point. Ordering from the States and our weak dollar here in Canada, the polo will cost you USD 49.95. While it feels like a premium product, it may be on the higher end of budgets for some. A slight improvement in affordability could make it an even better value.


Overall

Jersey Ninja has delivered a fun, stylish, and functional piece perfect for summer celebrations. After wearing the shirt at a few golf tournaments, I got many compliments, and people always asked where I got it. The 4th of July Bomb Pops on Blue Performance Polo will keep you cool and festive. Highly recommended for those who want to stand out while celebrating in style! 


Jersey Ninja has it all. Check out their website for Festive Christmas ideas for the upcoming season.








Jun 21, 2024

Lessons Learned - Turfgrass Leaders

Good people in the turf industry bring expertise, innovation, and dedication.

These are two Q&As  I did with guys in the turf industry that I was going to tie into an article I was writing about Gord, the longtime superintendent where I work who was retiring after many years. I didn't use them then because I felt they were owed more stand-alone opportunities.

You can learn a lot from people in the turf industry, not only if you're in the turf industry but also in life. Turf Today had a great podcast from Jeff Jeffreys, the superintendent at Pinehurst Resort & C.C. (Course No. 2), this week's 124th US Open site. Be sure to check it out as well.







Lee Strutt
Director of Agronomy


How does greenkeeping in Cape Breton, Canada, vary from other parts of the world where you’ve worked? 

Amazing golf locations are often remote, this plays to the magic and atmosphere created when visiting a distant location, but also creates its own micro issues. Due to this remoteness, equipment and regular supplies have to be planned ahead to ensure that the business can achieve deadlines. However, the largest hurdle is recruiting talented people. With so many golf courses looking for talented turf professionals and with a decreasing pool of people to pull from, coupled with our remote location, this is an incredible challenge. 

 I was lucky to have played Cabot Links in 2012 and Cabot Cliffs in 2016. What, in your opinion, makes these two properties so unique? 

 You are one of the few who have enjoyed a visit to Cabot Cape Breton and experienced both golf courses. Both golf courses have phenomenal designs, each creating a unique experience that makes the journey to Cape Breton worthwhile. Both courses have their own character, allowing players to compare, contrast and debate which is better! However, the course designs have a strong feeling of playing links golf, the original game, the ball's bump and run, and the luck and misfortune of every shot played in all weather elements. The feel of being so close to nature and enhanced with the wiry fescue turf is a vital part of the feel of being in Scotland, an essential part of any visit. 

With all the accolades both courses have gotten over the years, is there any pressure for you and the Cape Breton Team to maintain this standard? 

 There is significant pressure to maintain our standards and understand how these can be further enhanced. There is a growing number of talented golf course designers creating new and beautiful properties that Cabot has to compete with, both in Canada and worldwide. As turf managers, we recognize that we are very much in the entertainment business and want to ensure our guests have a positive experience and memory to cherish. So, there is a lot of investment in time and money to ensure our high standards are implemented but still create an environment for our teams to help develop new ways to evolve and improve these standards. 

 What courses, seminars, education, etc., do you have lined up for this year to maintain that edge?

 During the winter months lay host to many of the important turf conferences with our turf association bodies. These are normally held in US, UK, Cananda and Australia, where both the opportunity to learn from peer reviewed research, new product developments, learning new effects of legislation on our properties. But also, a time to network and meet with existing peers and to meet new ones. This generates a very valuable network of growth in knowledge. The turf industry is one of the very few industries where knowledge and ideas are freely shared, allowing others to learn and use at our own properties. I also try to take the chance to visit other properties in season, to see what is being achieved and created and what could I weave into our own operation to improve our own customer experience. 

What advice would you give someone looking to get into the agronomy side of the golf industry, knowing what you know? 

It is one of the most rewarding and exciting professions where knowledge, experience and help is freely available. You will be entering an industry where you will make so many friends and acquaintances that could be spread right across the globe. This industry will stretch your knowledge and imagination covering so many aspects of our role that isn’t just limited to agronomy. People and talent development, environment management, fiscal awareness, project management and construction, chemistry, biology, presenting and sharing experience just to name a few. It simply is more than mowing grass. 

 
Morgan Stephenson 
Golf Course Superintendent 
Methodist University Golf Course
  
What is your background/history? (your present position and previous positions) 
   
I grew up outside of Raleigh NC and began working on a golf course at the age of 15. My uncle was a superintendent and that was my first job. I attended N.C. State university and got a degree in Turfgrass Management. I took my first Assistant Superintendent position at Dunes West Golf Club near Charleston, SC. From there I moved to Williamsburg, VA to help in the construction and grow-in of Royal New Kent and Stonehouse golf courses. Both were designed by Mike Strantz, who I had met and befriended during my time in Charleston. From there I went to Tobacco Road Golf Club an assistant superintendent and eventually superintendent. I remained at Tobacco road from 1998 until May of 2023. I am now currently the golf course superintendent at Methodist University. 
  
What challenges do you face as a golf course superintendent? 
   
I think our biggest challenge agronomically is always the weather and the unpredictability of it and being able to adjust accordingly. However, like all businesses we are all challenged with finding and retaining good help. Keeping up with golfer expectations with fewer people and a busier golf course is definitely very challenging. 
  
Having the only private golf facility/golf course for PGA Golf Management students, how does that differ from other places you've worked? 
   
It is definitely very different from most golf courses. The course is essentially closed from early May when the students head home to early August when they return. I don’t have the pressure of preparing the golf course for 200 people every day, but I still want the students to have a good experience. There are no tee times unless they have an event of some sort, so they pretty much have the course at their disposal. It’s also interesting to get to know some of the students and helping them get started with their careers.
  
Are there any significant projects this season for you and your staff at Methodist University? 
   
There is a lot of potential for improvements on the golf course. The first thing that can be done would be a tee leveling and enlarging project. Long term plans would include irrigation upgrades and a potential greens renovation. 
   
What advice would you give someone looking to get into the agronomy side of the golf industry, knowing what you know? 
  
I’ve always encouraged people in the golf industry to go through a construction or renovation. I feel you can learn so much from this experience that it will help you be a better superintendent. Also you’ll never quit learning in this profession so be ready for continuing education. 
   
What are your interests outside of the golf course?  
   
I enjoy playing golf with my wife, travelling, and spending time with my family.