Pinehurst’s past inspires its present

Few sports revere their own history like golf. The sport, despite an onslaught of technological improvements to equipment, athletic clothing, and a slickly made Netflix series showing the sport’s luxury-loving superstars, still seems to evoke both within and without a sense of being old-fashioned. Maybe that image persists because so much of the game in this country takes place behind the closed gates of country clubs, but golf, especially with an influx of new players post-Covid, has been changing for some time. One of the best-case studies for that change is America’s first golf resort, Pinehurst.

Located in the Sandhills region of North Carolina about an hour south of the state capitol, Raleigh, Pinehurst has been hosting golfers since 1895 and this year it will host its fourth U.S. Open after being named an “anchor site” by the United States Golf Association. This means the championship will return to the resort’s most famous course, simply named No. 2, four more times between now and 2047. The last time the resort hosted the championship was in 2014, when it held both the men’s and women’s U.S. Open in back-to-back weeks, revealing a restoration to No. 2 where more than 40 acres of sod had been removed to return the course to a more rugged and natural look, in line with its appearance through the 1920s and 1950s.

No. 2 has always been the resort’s main draw despite having nine courses in its roster—and a tenth slated to open this April—for legions of golfers over the years who wanted to test their games, but the 2014 championships helped show casual golf fans used to seeing the teeming green of their home courses or Augusta National Golf Club each April, a different look—and a different way—to play golf. That looked involved not lush fairways and brightly-lit greens that glowed on the screen but a course that showcased a return to old-school centerline irrigation with fairways brown and crispy at their edges, punished by the hot North Carolina summer. Furthermore, wide expanses of sand, spotted with native wire grass, provided a glimpse of golf’s past in the Sandhills and the makings of the resort’s future.

Those aesthetics captivated both the television audience and the pros, allowing the course’s original strategic elements—its fearsome dome greens known as turtlebacks—to take center stage and not the ways in which the course was maintained. Though the restoration of No. 2 had occurred three years before the tournament, the success of the course in holding up to the challenges of both testing the best golfers in the world and hosting consecutive tournaments served as “catalyst for all the changes that happened” at Pinehurst, says Tom Pashley, president of Pinehurst.

Those changes have included updated new dining options, including The Deuce, whose patio overlooks the 18th green of No. 2 and where resort guests cheer—and sometimes playfully boo—their fellow golfers finishing up their rounds. A new brewery is located in the town’s former steam plant, and there has been a complete renovation of several other of the nine courses in the resort’s portfolio, including its No. 4 course by esteemed architect Gil Hanse, which along with No. 2 hosted the 2019 U.S. Amateur.

“I don’t know that we had any grand plans of taking [the renovations] as far as we have,” Pashley says when they started restoring No. 2, “but with each iteration [the resort] is just so well received and the appetite is strong for people to continue coming here.”

He goes on to cite the energy of the resort’s customers as a further catalyst to change and adds, “What I love to do is have somebody who hasn’t been to Pinehurst in the last five or ten years—when they come and visit it, they can’t believe it.”

The improvements at Pinehurst, in large part, are a reflection of a shift in the golf destination market largely brought on by the arrival of Bandon Dunes in Oregon, 25 years ago. At the time, many golf destinations had relied on either one architect or a handful of well-known former professional players turned architects to build their courses. Bandon presented a new paradigm in America, namely a links golf experience like that in Scotland and Ireland, where the game of golf as we know it was invented and first took shape. As Bandon’s own roster of courses grew, so did its popularity, and it forced other resorts to look at the formula for its success.

That No. 2 was indeed a world-class course, even prior to the restoration, was never really in doubt, though many people longed for it to return to its roots, including Tom Doak, who said the course had strayed too far from its origins. Beyond No. 2, though, traveling golfers had little reason to visit the other resort’s courses, which didn’t have the same cachet. The renovation of No. 4 helped a new breed of golfer, eager to try different kinds of golf, eager to play on courses that naturally reflected their native environs, discover another option at the resort. And, ironically, for a resort that’s hosted more championships than any other, it was its par-3 course, The Cradle, that might have done as much to change its image from living history to living history and must-see present. At less than 800 yards, The Cradle looks like No. 2’s little brother, but at any given time on any given day you can see it teems with golfers ages four through eighty, all with smiles on their faces.

And, like other golf resorts across the country, Pinehurst has seen a spike in demand, which has led it to add a tenth course. “We’ve got more visitors trying to come here, so we really were having a constraint of available tee times,” Pashley says. One of Pinehurst’s unique features is that it’s both a resort and a country club with its own members. A spike in the rolls of both almost necessitated a new course. No. 10 is being built by Tom Doak on the remnants of an old mining quarry and features wide playing corridors with a slew of undulating greens that invite shots to be run-up to their surface and will provide multiple pin positions that can change the playing strategy for each hole.

“I think No. 10 offers a lot of different elements that we don’t have on any of our other courses,” Pashley says, adding, “One of my favorites is just the setting.” The course is located four miles away from the main resort on an isolated piece of property. “While I love the hustle and bustle of courses one through five here at the main clubhouse, to me, it’s like a national park. Everyone is here; they’re all looking, they’re all admiring. But over there you can just listen to the silence and the sounds of nature.”

A new course and hosting a major championship. One of those would be a lot for any resort, but along with those, the resort has also completed a major renovation to its flagship hotel, The Carolina, which involved improvements to every guest room, including leveling floors to the hundred-plus year-old hotel, as well as reconfiguring many of the room’s spaces to accommodate the modern golfer. As Pashley points out, in the resort’s earliest days, guests were packing steamer trunks and staying for a month or more. Large closets in rooms are no longer needed. Coffee stations and soundproofing are.

So, when visitors and players arrive this June for one of golf’s oldest championships at one of its oldest venues, they’ll both see and experience the past through new, modern amenities that Pashley hopes, “carries us for the next fifty years.”

The post US Open Set to Return to Newly Renovated Pinehurst appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

That said, better book a resort than go course hopping in Florida to enjoy an ideal golf trip. Most pro, but also amateur golfers make early resort reservations. For ultimate comfort and flexibility, many choose to book a private jet for a golf trip, especially when traveling with a group.

So, if you are planning a golf getaway – here is a countdown of the top five resorts in Florida with the best amenities and golf courses, along with some tips that will make your trip worthwhile.

Top 5 golf resorts in Florida

1. The Ritz-Carlton golf resort

Image source: The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton golf resort is a perfect gateway for a luxury golf trip in Naples, Florida. It is about 25 miles from Southwest Florida International Airport. The resort features the Tiburon Golf Club, created by the renowned golf course designer Greg Norman.

The complex also offers a spa, fitness center, various dining choices, and a shuttle service to the adjacent Ritz-Carlton beach resort. According to the hotel’s rules, the best check-in time is between 3 and 4 PM.

Winter is the perfect season to play golf at the resort since the weather is milder and drier. In particular, December through April are the best months for golf, and the resort offers special golf packages during the summer.

Pro tip: Choose the course according to your skill level and preferences. It may be a daunting task with so many golf courses in Florida. So do your homework, ask the resort about the golf course condition, and ask for recommendations from local golfers.

2. PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Beach Gardens

Image source: PGA National Resort & Spa

PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens is a luxurious destination for golfers and spa enthusiasts. This resort has five championship golf courses, a full-service spa, and various dining options.

Palm Beach International Airport is the closest airport, but Fort Lauderdale International Airport and Miami International Airport are good choices. Check-in begins at 4 PM, and check-out is at 11 AM. Palm Beach Gardens is best suited for golf in winter when it’s mild and sunny.

Pro tip: The right golf gear is the key to an enjoyable golfing trip. Pack comfortable golf shoes, rain gear, a hat, an umbrella, and sunscreen.

3. The Breakers, Palm Beach

Image source: The Breakers, Palm Beach

Palm Beach’s luxurious oceanfront resort, The Breakers, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with beautiful architecture, luxury amenities, and excellent service. The Breakers golf course challenges all skill-level golfers with stunning ocean views, lush fairways, and a championship layout.

You can easily reach the resort within 15 minutes of Palm Beach International Airport, with a check-in time of 4 PM. During the winter months from December to March, when the weather is cooler and drier, the Breakers are the best place to play golf.

Pro tip: Expert golfers recommend golfing during the early hours between 9 AM to 11 AM in case you’re visiting Florida in summer or don’t want to wait a lot for your turn. Arrive early to make the most of your golfing experience. Before teeing off, get there early so you can check in, warm up, and get familiar with the course.

4. The Gasparilla Inn & Club, Boca Grande

Image Source: The Gasparilla Inn & Club

The Gasparilla Inn & Club is a historic luxury resort in Boca Grande, Florida. It offers elegant accommodations, world-class dining, golf, tennis, and beach access. The resort features a championship golf course with a length of 6,811 yards and 18 holes, along with a beautiful landscape.

You can reach the resort 35 minutes from Southwest Florida Regional Airport or 20 minutes from Charlotte County Airport. Check-in time for the other services is 3 PM, and for golf, it is 30 minutes before tee time.

The best time to golf at the resort is winter, from December to April. It is a pleasant and cool day, the courses are in excellent shape, and there is less crowding.

Pro tip: Florida offers world-class golf courses, state-of-the-art training facilities, and scenic surroundings, allowing golf enthusiasts to indulge in their passion. Benefit from these amenities to enhance your golfing experience in Florida.

5. The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs

Image source: The Greenbrier resort

One can find The Greenbrier luxurious resort at White Sulphur Springs in West Virginia. The resort has world-class rooms, restaurants, and spa services. It also has various fun activities, like golf, hiking, and horseback riding.

The Resort offers three scenic resort courses, a private course, and a nine-hole par-3 walking course. Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB), located 15 minutes from The Greenbrier, is the nearest airport to the hotel. You can check in after 4 PM and check out before noon.

According to pro golfers, the best time to golf is in the peak seasons from October through May and January through March, when the weather is milder and the courses are at their best.

Pro tip: Always ask about the golf course condition when booking a resort in Florida, whether the course is aerated or punched green. During the hot and humid weather in Florida, courses can be challenging, so keep yourself hydrated, take breaks, and keep a steady pace.

See you on the tee!

Whether you have plans to travel to Florida, Scottsdale, Augusta, or Las Vegas for your next golfing trip, strategically plan your whole trip. Search for golf courses or resorts with the best amenities and pick the course that suits your preferences.

The post How To Make The Most Of Your Golfing Experience In Florida appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Looking to explore bold, new golf frontiers this summer? Take a gander at these simply magnificent golf courses to up your game, all while delivering a compelling travel experience in spades. At Jetset, we revel in our golf obsession—from the latest and greatest graphite-shafted irons, to rewatching classic Masters moments, to the best craft brews on tap at the clubhouse. For us, and over 50 million golfers around the world, it’s a thrilling prospect to discover a new gem hidden in the distinguished global landscape of this game.

Keswick Hall

Golf insiders rejoiced when Keswick Hall recently reopened after a four-year closure and thrilling top-to-bottom renovation. With the reopening, Keswick Hall invites guests to experience the refreshed, award-winning golf course, brand-new spa, sparkling infinity pool, 80 sumptuous guestrooms and suites, and a culinary program overseen by Jean-Georges, including Marigold by Jean-Georges. Full Cry Golf Course, one of the last courses that the brilliant Pete Dye created, is consistently rated as one of the best in the nation. The 18-hole, award-winning layout combines the undulating geography of central Virginia with contemporary golf course architecture. The nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide a picturesque background for the tough course, strategically created for golfers of all skill levels to enjoy themselves.

Pete and Alice Dye’s renovations to an existing Arnold Palmer course at the 600-acre boutique Keswick Hall resort opened in 2014—garnering a ranking inside Golf Digest’s top 20 in Virginia ever since. The Dyes’ minimalist design offers options off the tee and open approaches to run balls onto greens if desired, but challenges golfers who are off line with difficult, small bunkers. With holes short and long, the course is varied and the conditioning is always excellent. The par-4 sixth hole is fantastic and challenging, and the finishing holes of 15–18 are among the best and most challenging in the state. This makes up for the significantly easier stretch of holes that are located around the turn and during the opening half of the back nine. And to think all of this gorgeousness is situated just outside of Charlottesville on a tranquil parcel of land with simply smashing mountain vistas.

Keswick Hall has been known for elegance, luxury, grandeur, and a sense of peace in the Virginia countryside since 1912. The iconic resort has taken on a new role today, combining classic sophistication with luxurious, modern-day comfort. In addition, Keswick Hall has a farm that supplies fresh veggies, grass-fed beef, honey from the apiary, and other ingredients to the restaurant. At Keswick Hall, Southern Hospitality meets contemporary luxury touches, culminating in a sumptuous hideaway with a deeply ingrained sense of authenticity and place.

The building, which was originally built for the Crawford family in 1912, has gone through various owners and has lived as a country club, an Orient-Express hotel, and Sir Bernard Ashley’s residence—the husband and business partner of fashion designer Laura Ashley. Robert and Molly Hardie, the current owners, acquired the property in 2017 and soon after started a complete refurbishment with the intention of modernizing and enlarging the old building.

Les Bordes Estate

Courtesy of Kevin Diss

Courtesy of Les Bordes

Courtesy of Les Bordes

In the ultimate live on the links fantasy, Les Bordes Estate announces launch of sales at Cour du Baron, a collection of luxury residences in France’s famed Loire Valley. Imagine home ownership near a UNESCO World Heritage Site, access to Six Senses Loire Valley resort amenities, all only steps from elite championship golf courses.

Courtesy of Kevin Diss

Courtesy of Les Bordes

Artfully crafted by acclaimed architecture firm Michaelis Boyd to honor the historic Loire Valley region, discerning clientele will be lured by the lauded estate within the mythical Sologne forest. Cour du Baron’s single-family residences represent a first-of-its-kind opportunity to own a home within one of the most compelling private communities in France. Residents are presented with a future-forward home ownership experience within the storied backdrop of a historic gem, offering endless recreation, and relaxation. Construction – led by VINCI – is well underway at Cour du Baron. Many of the homes have already been reserved by Les Bordes Golf Club members, though the first phases of residences are now available for purchase, with move-ins starting in early 2024.

Courtesy of Les Bordes

Courtesy of Kevin Diss

The estate encompasses the globally recognized Les Bordes Golf Club, which features world renowned championship courses including the New Course by Gil Hanse and the Old Course by the late Robert von Hagge, in addition to Cour du Baron, and will be home to the newest Six Senses Hotels Resorts and Spas – a pioneer of sustainable hospitality – featuring spacious guest suites, villas, and branded residences among the lush forest landscape.

Courtesy of Les Bordes

Courtesy of Kevin Diss

Courtesy of Les Bordes

This will include a stately Châteaux for fine dining, a lounge bar that reflects the traditions of the region, a Six Senses Spa with signature treatments and a medicinal garden, an organic kitchen garden and Earth Lab encompassing the resort’s conservation initiatives, and elegant event facilities, providing residents with extraordinary resort services and amenities only steps from their homes as a part of the Les Bordes Estate private community.

Les Bordes Golf Club’s elite courses are as unforgettable as they are challenging with fairways weaving between the forest, glimpses of red deer, pheasants, and sweeping lakes. The Old Course is widely considered to be Robert Von Hagge’s masterpiece, it has been consistently ranked amongst the top three golf courses in Europe over the past 30 years. It carves a tree-lined, 7,009-yard, par-72 course through the rolling Sologne forest. The New Course opened in 2021 and has been named among GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Courses in the World.

Cabot Saint Lucia

Cabot, renowned developer of master-planned golf resort communities, has a compelling release of new real estate at Cabot Saint Lucia on the horizon. Situated along 1.5 miles of breathtaking coastline, the development will include a residential community with world-class amenities and luxury accommodations for guests anchored by a stunning Coore & Crenshaw-designed golf course. Families seeking multi-generational homes in easy-to-access locales have fueled sales at Cabot Saint Lucia with buyers coming predominantly from the U.S. and Canada. Tours have taken place both virtually and on property in Saint Lucia. Many people have bought site unseen, a testament to the excitement for the development.

“The challenges of the past few years made our vision for Cabot Saint Lucia more relevant than ever,” said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and Co-founder of Cabot. “Our goal is to create a beautiful place for families to enjoy amid the incredible natural surroundings of Saint Lucia. We’re humbled by the overwhelming response to date and look forward to launching new real estate that meets the evolving needs of buyers today.”

Phase Two real estate is available for sale, including an exclusive offering of premium lots with endless views of the sparkling turquoise sea and highly anticipated, beautifully-crafted townhomes perched on one of the site’s highest points called the Fairway Villas. Each Villa enjoys its own private pool, with a wall-mounted waterfall. The landscape features tropical hillsides, sweeping meadows and coastal promontories along with striking elevation changes. Pricing for Phase Two ranges from $1.6 to $9.75 million. Point Hardy Golf Club opens this December.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Golf Course

For good reason, the Four Seasons Hualalai is frequently regarded as Hawaii’s best resort, and the golf course, one of the finest in the nation. This seriously exclusive course on the Kona-Kohala coast should be at the top of every golfer’s travel bucket list. Renovations to the island’s first Jack Nicklaus Signature course included reshaping of the greens and bunkers, as well as a modern new Platinum Paspalum turf.

Courtesy of Evan Schiller

Courtesy of Evan Schiller

The par-72 layout weaves through the Big Island’s challenging landscape. High-profile golfers, celebrities, and homeowners can let their hair down here, while their children are free to roam the expansive property. There’s no need to worry about security in this gated community of luxurious homes, some priced well into the tens of millions.

The Four Seasons Hualalai also boasts the largest villa product in Hawaii; the “big three” villas are just so phenomenally over the top. Explore seven distinctive pools, four delightful restaurants, an incredible gym, and impeccable service. The golf greens are groomed to immaculate standards, fairly wide fairways and docile greens for putting.

Like the links, the resort was designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, and it succeeds. Instead of a garish tower, stunning bungalows are carved into the black lava rock. After 18 holes, tuck into ULU Ocean Grill for a menu featuring an impressive 75% locally sourced ingredients. Order the King Crab or the Coriander Crusted Ahi Tuna, this will melt away any putting malfunctions and put the long game into perspective. If you happen to overextend and trigger your golfer’s elbow, the sublime spa is well versed in sports massage and deep tissue therapy.

Reynolds Lake Oconee

Tucked into the charms of Georgia’s lake country, thrives a golf community of consummate grace. Located between Atlanta and Augusta and founded on 12,000 acres of scenic lakefront, Reynolds Lake Oconee features six meticulously crafted golf courses, and all the leisure and culinary amenities befitting a world-class private club. In light of what is going on in the world, a stay here is more than just a holiday, it’s an escape to a world of gracious living in a secure, private enclave. Members and residents alike enjoy social highlights and curated recreational experiences, every day.

Golfweek lists five of the Reynolds courses in its “Top Courses You Can Play in the State” rankings. Beyond the national accolades, enjoy the prestige of the “Mount Rushmore” of golf architects, with signature designs by Bob Cupp, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Rees Jones and Jim Engh. Each course unveils its own unique identity, as the legendary luminaries molded their creative liberty into every fairway, bunker and green.

Reynolds vacation rentals offer you a resort-style vacation with all the comforts of home. A range of accommodations are available to host everything from a family getaway, to an annual golf retreat with friends, to a romantic getaway for two. These well-appointed cottages, condominiums and Inn rooms offer an ideal introduction to the lifestyle that club members enjoy on a daily basis. You’ll discover a lifestyle with a rhythm and cadence all its own, that drowns out the hassles of the outside world. The community has drawn passionate individuals, all of whom have been drawn to an inspired and active life, well-lived.

Indulge in unlimited golf with the signature Reynolds Ultimate experience. Offering innovative technology and personal consultation, once available only to tour professionals, The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee has been reimagined and renovated to provide the ultimate experience for all recreational golfers with a true passion for the game. The original golf course built at Lake Oconee, The Landing made its landmark debut in 1986, setting the stage for what has become a premier golf destination.

Written by Toby Thompson and Si Si Penaloza

The post Golden Golf Destinations 2023: Luxurious Links Well Worth the Trip appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Searching for a new pair of shoes to kick off the new year in style? We’ve browsed today’s hottest selection of high performance running shoes to help you find the very best options for your next workout. Presenting the latest in luxury footwear and training shoes for athletes who require superior form and function.

Brooks Caldera 6 and Glycerin 20

Brooks is an innovative and respected athletic footwear brand that started over 100 years ago. The two running shoes we feature here are all about cushioning and stability. Both utilize the DNA Lft v3 midsoles and have solid grips regardless of ground coverage. The Caldara 6 is a long-distance trail-running shoe. The Glycerin 20 is a daily trainer with a lightweight upper best for smooth transitions. Both are partly made from recycled material, which is a plus in our book. $150 / brooksrunning.com

York Athletics Frank Camos

The inspiration behind these stylish yet rugged shoes is boxer Frank York. It’s no wonder the Frank Trainer Camos are flying off the shelves. They’re supportive and breathable with a full-grain leather stability cage, making them functional and fashionable. With 52 points of measurement, they are the perfect fit for multi-use cross-training offering stability while lifting. These guys are limited edition, so if you want to bring the juice to the gym, grab a pair, stat. $155 / yorkathleticsmfg.com

NOBULL Trainer+

You gotta love an updated version of a classic. The Trainer+ is NOBULL’s newest version of the original. Like other NOBULL models, the Trainer+’s upper is a seamless one-piece construction of, what they call, Superfabric® — material that is durable, breathable, and abrasion resistant. This trainer has increased EVA midsole height, increased outsole dimensions, a herringbone outsole tread pattern for extra traction in any conditions, medial rope grips for climbing, toe bumper, and more. $139 / nobullproject.com

Puma Fuse 2.0

Hot off the presses, Puma has taken advice from athletes and the running community to improve the performance of its award-winning Fuse cross-trainer. This second iteration has PUMAGRIP for multi-surface traction, an internal midsole to get a stable stance during workouts, and higher sidewall coverage. It’s suitable for recreational lifting, rope climbing, and casual CrossFitters. $100 / us.puma.com

GORUCK Ballistic Trainers

“The best workout shoes for men and women ever created,” as stated on the website. With the enormous selection of said shoes, we would say that is arguable, but we’ll be generous and give mad props to this trainer. Features include engineered warp-knit & CORDURA ballistic nylon upper, anatomically molded TPU heel counter, lace-lock eyelets, wide toe box, custom high-density insert, versatile heel-to-toe drop, gradient density EVA midsole, and a triple compound rubber outsole. $125 / goruck.com

Reebok Nano X2 Adventure

Reebok’s latest iteration of its popular Nano series may be the brand’s most versatile training shoe yet. The X2 Adventure was built for not only your most intense gym workouts, but also for when you take your training outside for a running or hiking session in the great outdoors. The shoe’s durability has been bolstered with a more rugged lug outsole, and Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam allows for comfort as well as a bit of shock-absorption for those heavy runs. $140 / reebok.com

The post If The Shoes Fit: Trainers Focus on Comfort, Stability, and Traction appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Bomber Ski and Bentley Motors are teaming up for the third time to present a finely crafted, limited-edition collection of 200 pairs of ICE skis with helmet and poles, newly released for the 2022 — 2023 winter season. Bomber Ski is a leading luxury ski equipment brand owned and operated in Cossato, Italy, where its expert craftsmen hand-make performance skis and equipment for every level of recreational skier. Their pairing with Bentley Motors is the perfect luxury partnership to deliver the highest-quality performance and precision.

Expert Craftsmanship and Engineering

Following in the footsteps of the Black Diamond 84 and Centenary Edition 84 releases, the ICE edition ski perfectly reflects the vision and expertise of a Bomber x Bentley partnership in both design and craftsmanship.

A luxury collector’s item with only 200 pairs manufactured, the ICE edition ski has a sleek white and gray polished finish. The diamond-shaped 3D texture incorporates Bentley’s EXP 100 GT interior, with a silver-plated finish made of brass-polished nickel. More than that, the texture helps to strengthen the ski and allows for the highest level of responsiveness at any speed.

These skis are made of compound and ABS sidewalls, as well as titanal and fiberglass which feature in Bomber’s signature metal sandwich construction. This delivers the highest quality and allows for evenly distributed edge pressure and an early rise. Every level of recreational skier can improve their performance with these skis, which assist with nimble turns and float and a smooth run every time, no matter the terrain. One pair of skis takes approximately 32 hours for expert craftsmen to complete in the Bomber Ski factory in Italy.

The Complete Collection

This collection also includes all new poles and a helmet, both perfectly curated to accompany the ICE edition skis. The poles are crafted from carbon fiber and aluminum, making them lightweight without sacrificing strength. Stitched leather handles continue to tie in the luxury of Bentley’s designs, using the well-known profile of vintage Bentley gear shifters.

The helmet is hand-made from carbon fiber, Kevlar, and leather with a Bentley badge on each side. Designed to combine the highest quality standards for durability, safety, shock absorption, and luxury, the helmet features a core made from expanded polystyrene and includes a removable sun visor and hygiene and fragrance cartridge.

The ICE edition ski can be found online and their products are also available in over 40 stores worldwide.

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The social game of ping-pong just took a turn toward luxury, as the esteemed fashion label Louis Vuitton has officially released its very own ping pong paddle set.

This sports set is perfect for anyone who takes their ping-pong game a little too seriously, or for those looking to buy a ping-pong lover the gift-of-their-dreams. Meeting both prestige and functionality, this set comes with two miniature rackets and a leather strap holder for 4 Louis Vuitton ping pong balls. The two well-performing paddles have handles that are made with soft light wood and have shiny “LV” chrome logos attached. The high-quality cover is made out of Louis Vuitton’s famous monogram leather and comes in two colors; the iconic brown and tan tone, as well as a beautiful black and chrome combination.

Each set has the heavy-duty coordinating Louis Vuitton zippers in shiny gold or silver metal to create a sturdy paddle cover. The four ping-pong balls that complete this sports set are secured in Louis Vuitton’s thick leather straps and each ball has the “LV” logo printed on it, as even the small details of this sports set scream prestige. As a whole, the glamorous Louis Vuitton ping pong set is listed at $2,280.00 and is available for purchase online or in select Louis Vuitton retailers.

Louis Vuitton is doing a stellar job at maximizing on the high-class consumer’s love for quality sports equipment. They recently released a two-piece dumbbell set which is covered in the brand’s distinguished LV monogram leather and shiny gold accents, with soft Epi leather handles which are resistant to perspiration marks. These fancy workout pieces claim to be only 2 kgs each, however they definitely ‘weigh’ down the buyer’s pockets in more ways than one as the set is priced at nearly $3,000.00.

To go along with the luxe weights, LV has crafted a beautiful $2,000.00 “LV” stamped yoga mat with a durable shoulder strap and classic brown leather card holder. Meant for stretching in elegance, the mat can pack up and travel easily with the included secure leather handles. Furthermore, these two items pair perfectly with the label’s expensive chrome water bottle and leather holder, or possibly the leather-bound jump rope. Fancy a $3,000 skateboard? Louis Vuitton has it all, from elegant handbags and gorgeous apparel, to ping pong sets and workout accessories, the brand is a one-stop-shop for the finest in luxury goods.

Whether it’s because of the absurd price or the creative concept, Louis Vuitton’s ping pong set is certainly attracting attention. Perhaps luxury workout accessories are becoming the new purse..and the holidays are just around the corner.

louisvuitton.com

The post Posh Ping-Pong: Louis Vuitton Launches Their $2,300 Sports Set appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Iconic French fashion house Dior is stoked about helping you catch waves with ease, and in style.

Next time you head to your favorite sandy beach with your sunscreen and beach towel, you may want to bring your new luxury beach accessory with you, the limited edition Dior Maison surfboard.

The stunning vivid blue electric surfboard from the French house’s “Maison” line, which focuses on interior house décor, is much more than simply another accessory from their Dioriviera 2022 summer capsule, because you can indeed take this decorative board into the water.

The way cool surfboard, magnificently handcrafted in the Dior workshop-studio in France, is hand-finished with the house’s signature Toile de Jouy imprint and designed with the assistance of expert board-makers. The surfboard was created as a homage to Christian Dior himself, who launched the Dior brand in 1946, and the board’s chic yet versatile practicality of design draws influence from the company’s head creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri’s innate garment creations.

This specific electric-blue Dior Maison surfboard is superbly manufactured from polyester, polyurethane foam, fiberglass, and sturdy premium lime wood. Once it’s hand-molded and polished to form the appropriate shape, it gets its coating of the Dior brand’s characteristic toile and its surface smoothed out. Additionally, the board features an eye-catching pattern on one side and the famous Christian Dior mark on the other. A customized travel carrier with two hand harness options is included with the surfboard to make it easy to carry back and forth to the beach.

The distinctive surfboard is emblazoned with the signature Toile de Jouy, which can also be found on the brand’s other luxury accessories and goods designed by Chiuri, such as premium footwear, select apparel, and spectacularly designed handbags. The board is offered in a radiant electric neon blue hue that will be sure to turn the attention of beachgoers, as you approach the sea to ride the waves.

For more pizazz and flair, it’s offered in several colors and pattern tones, including red, orange, grey, blue, and pink. As part of the Dioriviera capsule collection, the surfboard accompanies a selected variety of other summer season accessories and products.

For the surfing enthusiast with an innate desire for one-of-a-kind style, this must-have surfboard is yet another fabulous rendition of the renowned Toile de Jouy vibe and mission. The intentional color palette of this collection is meant to honor the sweet-life, while a distinctive touch of couture illuminates your own personal beach-life. The limited edition Dior Maison surfboard lists for $10,000 USD.

dior.com

The post Surfs Up: Dior Surfboard That Handles Waves In Style appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Cool, calm, and collected. More than just a cliche, it’s a way of life for professional race car drivers at the height of their racing career. In 2022, as a new generation of modern machinery and young talent shape the future of the sport, two veteran Indianapolis 500 champions have once again set their sights on that lofty title. We spoke with Hélio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud of Meyer Shank Racing, fresh off their team’s Acura DPi win at the revered Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, to get the inside track on what it takes to be a championship-winning race car driver.

The Indy 500 is widely regarded as the largest single-day sporting event in the world and is appropriately dubbed “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Each year for more than a century, professional race car drivers of all pedigrees and from across the globe have made their way to Indianapolis Motor Speedway in hopes of taking home the ultimate prize. To win the famed Borg-Warner Trophy is an honor unlike any other and one that sits at the pinnacle of every driver’s bucket list. Steeped in tradition, only an elite handful have ever earned the opportunity to drink the bottle of milk awarded to winners of the iconic race. Perhaps even more rare: to have two former Indy 500 winners on the same team. Such is the case for Meyer Shank Racing’s 2022 all-star lineup, with both Castroneves and Pagenaud having previous wins at the world’s largest sporting facility.

It comes as no surprise that 46-year-old Hélio Castroneves has had more than a few unforgettable race wins. The Brazilian-born driver is the reigning 2021 Indy 500 champion, making him only the 4th driver in history to win racing’s most sought-after crown a record-tying four times. Inspired by the likes of legendary Formula One driver Ayrton Senna, Castroneves says he fell in love with racing at a young age after his father formed a small stock car team. As a minor, he would sneak into races in the trunk to avoid getting caught for being below the minimum age. His mother was never a big fan of racing and pushed Hélio to pursue other interests with less risk of injury. Fortunately for race fans, that advice never stuck and Castroneves spent the next several years perfecting his craft, beginning in karting and working his way through the ranks to ultimately become one of the world’s most respected racing drivers.

Adding to his remarkable four Indy 500 wins and an overall win in the 2020 IMSA SportsCar Championship, Castroneves has also joined the elite club of Rolex 24 champions after taking home team wins in both 2021 and 2022, the latest with the help of Meyer Shank Racing and his new teammate Simon Pagenaud. With his sights once again set on the biggest race in motorsports, Hélio tells us a record-setting fifth Indy 500 win is “definitely next on the list.” He says, “The best part is when you get out of the car and you hear the fans cheering – then it all becomes real and you realize you have achieved something really historic. And I am so lucky to have experienced that four times. It will never get old.”

For his part, French driver Simon Pagenaud brings a different perspective to the team. “My family has never been in racing before,” he humbly confesses. “My great grandfather, grandfather, and father were in the grocery store business, distribution platform and supermarket industry.” At age 4, Pagenaud says he was also mesmerized by Brazilian F1 driver Ayrton Senna who was battling every weekend with his 4-time world champion teammate, French driver Alain Prost. “We used to watch races on Sundays with my dad on TV and I wouldn’t have ever missed it.”

The charismatic Frenchman was crowned the IndyCar Series champion in 2016 and had his name engraved on the sacred Borg-Warner trophy following an Indy 500 win in 2019, marking the first French driver to win the illustrious title since 1920. He tells Jetset, “The Indy 500 is my favorite event and quite frankly the one I feel most comfortable in. I love racing at these speeds where split-second decisions make a big difference.” With speeds consistently exceeding 200mph, the 500-mile race at the hallowed Brickyard is certainly not for the faint of heart!

Off the track, Castroneves and Pagenaud are both dedicated family men with very busy schedules. “When I’m not racing, I like to try to take my daughter to school and then work out. Many times, I will have meetings with the team engineers to go over the data from the previous race and also talk about what we can do for the next race. I also will have other meetings with some of my business partners as well,” says Castroneves. Undoubtedly, the business of racing is just that, a business. It’s a sentiment echoed by his Meyer Shank Racing teammate, with Pagenaud telling us, “From accounting, to logistics to get to the racetrack, to marketing in the US and in France, social media, physical trainer, mental trainer, to the driver of my house on wheels (RV), there are about 10 people I deal with every day.”

Both gentlemen enjoy devoting time in other business ventures as well. Castroneves is proud to support his team’s charity efforts, stating, “Whenever I can be a part of something philanthropic I do it. Right now, I’m lucky to get to work with AutoNation as our main sponsor. They have a fantastic charity called the Drive Pink Campaign which raises money for cancer research.” Pagenaud also likes to flex his entrepreneurial prowess, telling us he’s still involved with his father’s supermarket business in some ways, often sharing feedback when he sees a good idea in another store. He’s also interested in investing and in the stock market, but says, “Mostly I try to focus on my own business and grow my brand because there are so many things we can do. It’s all just a matter of time and strategy on how to invest our budget to attract more partners.”

When not in race mode, both men are passionate about spending their free time with friends and family. “I love spending time with my wife, son and dog and seeing my son grow. So we just play together for hours,” Pagenaud proudly proclaims. “I love cooking, grilling by the pool while listening to reggae.” An amateur sommelier, he tells us he’s a fan of red wine and enjoys discovering new blends. “I search for wine and try to grab the best I can find at a decent price.” Castroneves also likes to spend his down time under the sun, telling us, “Tennis is a sport that I love to play whenever I can and of course I just like to be in Florida – it’s my kind of weather.” It seems only natural, then, that his favorite places to vacation include Colombia and his home country of Brazil.

As you would expect, travel is an essential part of any professional race car driver’s routine, and the two Indy 500 champions definitely know how to arrive in true Jetset style. Whenever possible, the pair make use of a private jet to take them from race to race. And although it’s not a luxury they enjoy as often as they would like, the convenience of flying private allows them to make the most of their travel time in preparation for an upcoming event. While Pagenaud’s pre-race rituals often include a warm-up workout on a stationary bike or rowing machine (along with a healthy meal of chicken, rice, and green beans), both drivers say meditation is a must to allow them time to focus before a race.

Of course we couldn’t let them get back to racing without first asking about their personal vehicles. For Hélio, he says it’s a Bugatti Chiron that sits firmly atop his wish list while an Acura MDX is his current daily driver. Simon, on the other hand, enthusiastically tells us, “It depends on my mood and on the day. First off, my classic cars do not go out if it’s raining or gloomy! I drive a Mercedes-AMG GT as my daily sportscar. If it’s sunny and I just want to cruise, 1968 Mustang Fastback. If it’s sunny and I’m nostalgic of France, I take my Renault 5 Turbo on the curvy roads. For the ultimate love of driving, I take my 1989 911 Turbo Porsche.” Pagenaud goes on to say that his dream cars are the original Acura NSX, ‘98 Acura Integra Type R, and the new generation NSX which he says “is a subject of discussion with my boss in case we win Indy!”

After speaking with each of these ultra-talented and extremely down-to-earth champions, we asked each of them a final simple, yet powerful, question: If you could give the younger version of yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?

“Play the game, be yourself, give it 100%. There is no point doing anything if you are not fully IN. And only YOU can be the judge of that dedication!” says Pagenaud. Four-time Indy 500 winner Castroneves tells us, “Tomorrow is another day and to always have passion for what you are doing. That’s what’s gotten me to where I am today.”

Wise words from two of the most deserving drivers on the grid. Our hats are off to both of you as you prepare for victory lane once more at the 106th running of the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 29, 2022.

The post Winner’s Circle: The Inside Track with Two Indy 500 Champions appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

The world’s first and fastest hyper-jet ski is making a splash, as glamour meets high tech in the ultra-competitive leisure aquatic watercraft market.

In early 2024, the Supermarine MM01 is expected to be introduced to an exclusive number of elite water sports enthusiasts. Powered by an electric motor and reaching a top velocity of over 75 mph, Supermarine seemingly takes flight, making it the fastest electric jet ski ever designed and manufactured.

Sleek and ambitious in its concept and performance, Supermarine is the brainchild of renowned world-class engineers and watercraft design brothers Germain and Leopold Bouvet. With a focus on aerodynamic implementation, the nautical feel and build is unapologetically prestigious in its effect of appearing to fly on top of the water.

Stunning and futuristic, the Supermarine MM01 will generate speed and power as it cruises in style, powered by a 300hp electric mechanism, it’s sure to be a showstopper for all who catch a glimpse of this masterpiece of aquatic craftsmanship.

Passion and creativity are evident from start to finish of this glitzy amphibious machine. Meticulous care in the production of Supermarine is top priority, taking more than 500 man-hours to hand-build each limited edition Supermarine hyper-jet ski. Unsurprisingly, the ultimate electric super-fast jet ski comes with a luxurious price tag, expected to be exclusively available for $500,000 to $1 Million.

The fashion-forward fabrication process also includes an array of luxurious touches, such as a handmade leather lined trunk that is intentionally placed with security and ease of access in mind. Other noteworthy accents include a front-end air scoop and LED taillights under the seat. In another posh touch, a wine container has been serendipitously hidden beneath the saddle in the storage compartment, so you can share a cheers as you’re idling on the high seas.

The beautiful exterior showcases precise curves and contours that will make your jaw drop. A patented mold of Carbon-Kevlar core is also used for the body’s finishes, streamlining its front-end functionality. Voyaging at super-fast speeds, it smoothly retracts back to protect you as the nautical pilot, from any rough surging waves.

Each custom built Supermarine MM01 will be manufactured in France, and Bouvet brothers will only make 30 of these special limited-edition hyper-jet skis; 15 in a grand classic black, and 15 in a lavish pearl white color.

Supermarine MM01 resides in a class of its own. It’s the 1% of the 1% of luxury electric watercraft, a revolutionary niche atop the jet ski industry. Next time your on the water you may have to look twice, as this newly envisioned manufacturer succeeds in caring about the environment, while splendidly elevating its hyper-luxe standards.

bouvetmarine.com

The post Flying At Sea: Supermarine MM01 Hyper Fast Electric Jet Ski appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Meet Patrick Koenig, a wildly enthusiastic golfer and irrepressible visual storyteller who has photographed some of the world’s most famous golf courses. Featured in the illustrious pages of GOLF, Golf Digest, and The Golfer’s Journal, Koenig’s photographs capture sweeping fairways, atmospheric auras, and the evocative cadence of undulating links on the green. In documenting dramatic course features, he draws attention to the natural tendencies of the land to amplify both its risks and rewards. Eavesdrop as we ask him the burning questions we’ve had since his work popped up on our radar a few years ago.

When you survey a course pre-production, what influences your approach to the shoot?

I look for interesting features. I look for elevated perches that provide a compelling vantage point. Most importantly, I look for the way the light hits the golf course, sunrise and sunset lighting is the most important factor.

What golf course designers really speak to your photographic sensibility?

Tom Fazio builds a beautiful golf course, but they can be somewhat predictable. Pete Dye gives you wild and bold features that can be a lot of fun to shoot, even the golden age architects provide interesting bunkers that photograph well from elevation. Every architect that has had some success has something worth highlighting in a photograph.

Compositionally speaking, describe some of the elements you most enjoy finding on a golf course.

It’s the elements that I don’t expect that usually delight me. A surprise that makes you go, oh yeah, that’s it! Like the mountain range behind the Devil’s Cauldron in Banff. I wasn’t expecting it to be so bold. It’s always the one-of-a-kind features that are most excellent.

How has the advent and increasing sophistication of drones affected your photography practice?

It makes a massive difference. I incorporate drone photography into just about every photoshoot that I do. The angles in the sky are almost infinite and provide a whole new range of possibilities.

A golf moment that sparked a major life idea or solution.

2018’s RGV Tour was a major turning point in my life. After that tour, I gave up my sales job and pursued a career in golf. So far, I haven’t had to go back to the corporate grind.

Celebrated golf courses that have truly lived up to the hype.

Cypress Point, Oakmont, NGLA, Merion.

Is golf with Bill Murray, a national treasure in our book, as hilarious as it seems? Does he have a stronger long game or short game?

Every bit as good as advertised. Bill’s game fluctuates wildly, sometimes he chips like Jesus and then he lays the sod over one. Sometimes he bombs it down the middle, other times he bombs it into the houses wide right.

A golf-themed film or book that has really moved you.

The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever, by Mark Frost. Hogan, Nelson, Ward, Venturi all have such amazing walks through a life in golf. The book does a great job of bringing it all together. A must read for any fan of the game.

What three things are on your must-pack-or-will-suffer-a-meltdown list?

Camera, Drone, Clubs.

Share with us your outlook for 50 courses in 50 days in Wisconsin this summer.

I have long proclaimed that Wisconsin has the very best collection of public golf courses in the US. I can’t wait to share the glory of those golf courses and dig even deeper into the state’s golf secrets.

Brushes with Greatness. Most famous or interesting person you have spotted or bantered with on your golf travels.

We played behind Bill Clinton at Sleepy Hollow. Perhaps even better, I played behind Barack Obama at Olympia Fields when he was in office as President. The Secret Service searched my golf bag about 6 times.

Favorite course designers and architects?

Pete and Alice Dye did so much for the game, and left behind some of the world’s most interesting and influential designs. CB Macdonald and Seth Raynor for their work at NGLA alone. Mackenzie with an honorable mention.

The post Golf’s Greatest Links: The Golden Age of Golf Photography appeared first on JetsetMag.com.