Golf-South.net, your link to the Traveling Golfer.

By Claudio DeMarchi

It is only fitting that a region steeped in golf history and tradition be welcoming some of the game's all time greats at one of the finest golf courses on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. From April 26 through to May 2, the likes of Hal Sutton, Jay Haas, and Tom Watson along with crowd pleasuring Fred Funk and Fuzzy Zoeller are expected to be strolling the fairways of the nationally acclaimed Fallen Oak Golf Club. Who knows? Maybe even "Boom Boom" Freddie Couple will show up!

Fallen Oak was introduced to the golf world in 2007 and made an impact similar to that of Freddie's club head on a golf ball. Golf Digest panelists immediately recognized the Tom Fazio design as Number 2 in the category of Public Courses over $75.00.

Fallen Oak measures a muscular, PGA Tour caliber 7,480 yards from the tips, and the course is characterized by a lush, rolling landscape covered in oak and pine ridges, magnolias, pecan groves, large lakes, winding streams and wetlands. It features 10 bridges and concealed cart paths to protect the terrain's natural features. Fallen Oak is owned by the opulent Beau Rivage Resort & Casino it is a "sister" course to Shadow Creek, MGM Mirage's hyper-luxurious course in Las Vegas.

The most recent, and arguably one of the most prestigious distinctions, is a spot in the elite of the elite – Golf Digest's "America's 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses" where Fallen Oak debuted at Number 19.

"Our players look forward to this terrific addition to our 2010 Schedule," said Mike Stevens, President of the Champions Tour. "Mississippi has a rich history of hosting PGA TOUR tournaments, and we're delighted to team with these great partners for the first Champions Tour event in Mississippi."

The Mississippi Gulf Coast certainly has a golf tradition of golf notables such as Donald Ross, who in 1908 built, the Gulf Coast's first course - the Great Southern Golf Club. In 1945, after 19 playoff holes on Great Southern between Sam Snead and Byron Nelson, Nelson conceded a 5 foot putt to give Snead the victory. In that same year, Nelson rolled off an unprecedented 11 straight tournament wins.

More recently, the likes of Jack Nicklaus (Grand Bear Golf Club), Arnold Palmer (The Bridges Golf Club), Davis Love III (Shell Landing Golf Club), Mark McCumber (Windance Golf & Country Club) and Jerry Pate (the Preserve Golf Club) have all left their mark with modern style world class layouts to accompany the historic ones on the Gulf Coast.

2007 was an especially good year for the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Not only did Fallen Oak make its debut, but just up the road The Preserve - another world class course designed by former US Open winner Jerry Pate - opened its doors and was ranked as Number 6 in the Best New Public Course over $75.00. That's two courses in the top ten in 2007 – quite an honor!

When visiting the Coast, there is another course that should not be missed by anyone - The Oaks Golf Club, which is a personal favorite, has hosted Nike Tour and Buy.com Tour events. I would put The Oaks par 3's up against any of the finest courses in the world.

Those not able to travel to the event should stayed tuned to the Golf Channel, but for the lucky people traveling to the area will be in store for an endless supply of southern hospitality in a way that only Mississippians' can dish out. In fact, it's been rumored that "Southern Hospitality" was invented in Mississippi! Combine this with world class gaming, 26 miles of scenic coastal beach, moderate year round climate and Southern cuisine second to none, many will wonder why the Mississippi Gulf Coast hasn't been a travel destination for them in the past!

The Mississippi Gulf Coast has 15 courses for the golfer to choose from, plus many styles of accommodations and countless properties to consider as well.

Fallen Oak

The Preserve Golf Club

The Oaks Golf Club

IP Casino Resort Spa

"Relax, It's the Mississippi Gulf Coast" is the Convention & Visitors Bureau's slogan to entice folks to the region, and you certainly can do that if you choose, but if you're at all like me, you will find there are just too many things to do.

The biggest decision is usually what to do first. Do you want to attempt to land a big one on a deep sea fishing excursion, or win big at one of the 24/7 world class casino's? Nature lovers would love the eco tours exposing nature at its most pristine. The choice is yours, either escorted tours or - if you dare - venture out on your own by canoeing or kayaking the unspoiled rivers and bayous. Visitors are always excited to get up close and personal views of hundreds of species of birds, animals, and reptiles, including several threatened and endangered species that call Mississippi home.

For the shopper in you, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is dotted with unique boutiques, factory outlets, and places where you can find that special gift. Works by the talented artists and craftsmen are available throughout the area. Antiquing in this region is a sport in itself, and if you are looking for mint collectibles or pieces that need a little loving care, you can find them here.

For more information on the Mississippi Gulf Coast visit www.gulfcoast.org and for more specific golf package information visit www.golfcoast.com

02/10