A  recent survey in conducted by Golf Digest magazine found that despite the economic downturn of recent years, 65% of the 2000 people who responded take an annual golf buddy trip.  Almost half said they would continue the tradition even if their income fell by 25%.  Those surveyed said the like the camaraderie as much as the golf. 

About 80% of golf buddy trips are taken by men, while women enjoy spa trips with friends.  According to an article on the Reuters Money Blog, Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona is a popular health spa destination. 

What makes golf and spa trips worth every hard-earned penny?  According to those surveyed, the return on investment  is relaxation and fun.  Read more about destination getaways at the Reuters Money Blog

The beautiful golf courses that dot the landscape of Arizona are made possible by the hard work of hundreds of grounds crew workers.  Most of the workers are Mexican immigrants who make less than $10 per hour.  The work isn’t easy, but many grounds crew workers enjoy spending time outdoors as they shovel sand, mow greens, dig trenches and rake bunkers. 

To gain a better understanding of the job of a grounds crew worker, read about a worker named Miguel Ramirez who works at the Grayhawk Golf Course in Scottsdale on the GOLF Magazine website.  Ramirez has a zen-like philosophy that allows him to enjoy his job.

Tim Mickelson, brother of pro golfer Phil Mickelson, has accepted a position as head golf coach for Arizona State University. Mickelson will be leaving a coaching position at the University of San Diego, where he led the golf program to its first three NCAA tournaments while collecting four West Coast Conference championships. Mickelson has also been named WCC Coach of the Year four times.

Both Tim Mickelson and his brother Phil spent time in the ASU golf program. Tim Mickelson was part of the time that won a National Championship in 1996.

Read more about the new ASU coach on the ASU Sun Devils Athletics website.

Turquoise Valley Golf Course, located in Naco, Arizona near the border with Mexico, is considered to be the state’s oldest continuously operating course.  Found in 1908, Turquoise also has the distinction of being home to the 747-yard “Rattler.”  The Rattler is the only Par 6 hole in Arizona.  It’s the 5^th longest hole in the U.S. and the 10^th longest on the planet. 

Naco is located a short distance from Tombstone, one of the most historic towns of the Old West.  The course includes a restaurant and RV park, making it a great golfing destination for those who aren’t looking for a 5-star resort.

Find out more about Turquoise Valley Golf and the Rattler on the official course website.  You can also see footage of the Rattler and learn about Arizona golf history in this YouTube video from Arizona Highways TV.