Strength in Numbers

by Meredith Donahue

 Jun 12, 2018 at 4:23 PM

Need motivation to exercise? Accountability and encouragement is the secret behind Wakefield Plantation’s thriving group personal-training program.

It's 5:30 A.M. at Wakefield Plantation. The sun peeks through the clouds, the world wakes to another busy day, and Drew Forshey’s first group fitness class is underway.

What motivates someone to show up, day after day, to an early-morning fitness class? The answer is simple: the need for a healthier, positive change in daily life, coupled with the support and motivation of like-minded classmates.

Forshey, instructor of the group personal-training program at Wakefield, knows just what it takes to change the lives of the class participants. When looking for a way to improve your overall health, a program like Forshey’s is just the thing.

“I look forward to my daily workouts with Drew and my group because I’ve found that fitness is fun with friends,” says Pam Boyden, Wakefield Plantation member and active program participant.

Wakefield’s group personal-training program has been successful since its implementation in 2014. Each week, there are 16 available workout times to accommodate varying schedules. From 5:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., there is a slot for everyone. (So no more excuses – “I can’t find the time!”) It’s not unusual for some participants to make it to five sessions each week.

The program’s small-group philosophy is key to creating a one-on-one personal-training style experience — but with the positivity and benefit of friends to lean on for extra motivation.

Wakefield member Jill Brennan-Cook explains: “The people who exercise alongside me at 5:30 a.m. provide me with motivation. They push themselves and never, ever complain about the work. It’s an eclectic group of friendly and supportive people who are interested in being healthy and making the most of the early morning hour.”

To reach this point of commitment and dedication, each group member goes through an intake process that allows the trainer to complete necessary health and medical history checks. It also provides the trainer time to design a specific workout routine based on the individual’s needs, injury history, and goals. Each participant is different, so every program is designed specifically for the individual.

According to Forshey, exercise routines vary depending on the needs of the client. However, most programs focus on cardiovascular, resistance training, and high-intensity interval training. There’s also emphasis on balance, posture, core strengthening, and injury prevention and rehabilitation, if necessary.

As instructor of the program, Forshey reaps the benefits just as much as his students. “I love my job, I really do,” he says. “I’m excited to get to work in the morning. I love to help others however I can, and personal training has always been a way to do that for me. Prevention is worth a pound of treatment. To get someone started, then watch them really own their health and fitness ... that’s one of the best feelings.”

The classes have been truly “lifechanging,” says student Brook Ayres. “It’s the most fun hour of my day, and I am in the best shape of my life!”

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Holding Court!

by Matt McConnell

 Mar 09, 2018 at 12:35 AM

Game, set, dinner!

Exhibition matches have long been a celebrated occasion across the tennis facilities of McConnell Golf; however starting last year, a new twist was added — members can enjoy great food, service, and entertainment right on the court.

“What can be better than dining under the stars while watching local collegiate and professional tennis players compete?” asks Kyle Thortsen, director of tennis operations. “These Dining on the Courts events are a night for the entire family to enjoy.”

Wakefield Plantation launched the Dining on the Courts event in Fall 2016. At the most recent event, Wakefield members enjoyed a raffle for door prizes, and the Wakefield Juniors were cheered on during their matches before local tennis pros, including Pierce Hoover, Brian Rosenthal, Ben Hunter, and Matt Nicholson, competed in the main event. 

 

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It's Chase with the Ace

by Casey Griffith

 Mar 01, 2018 at 9:05 PM

Meet 10-year-old Chase Duncan. He recently shot his first hole-in-one at Wakefield Plantation, acing hole No. 7 while playing with his father. He is the youngest McConnell Golf member to do so at any property.

“My Dad shot the yardage at 90 and he said maybe an 8 iron,” says Chase. “I said, ‘I think it’s a 9.’ I was right. When I saw it go in, we both yelled and were excited.”

For his father, Jon Duncan, it was both a proud and humbling moment.

“Anything that your child accomplishes that makes them truly excited is always a blessing to watch in person,” he says. “Then when they remind you that you have never accomplished that same thing, you realize that a 10-year-old is better at golf then you.”

Prior to his hole-in-one, Chase was named the 2017 Junior of the Year at WP. He started playing when he was four years old; now, he’s a strong member of the 2017 PGA Junior League squad. Last year, he won the Junior Club Championship Nine & Under Division with a solid round of 39, seven strokes better than his nearest competitor.

This past summer, Chase teamed up with his Dad to post a stellar score of 37 and claim a Modified Pinehurst Parent-Child event at WP. Needless to say, the father-son duo have a lot of golf ahead of them. We’re certain there’s an ace out there for Dad in the future!

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Life Changing Physical Therapy

by Todd Lewis

 Feb 02, 2018 at 4:00 PM

Wakefield Plantation member Todd Lewis (pictured) shares his experience with the club's Physical Therapy program

I’ve had recurring “lower back pain” for the past several years on a spectrum from annoying to debilitating at different times. I received chiropractic treatment sporadically during this time period with some very temporary relief, but which ultimately did not lead to a lessening of symptoms or identification (much less correction) of the underlying problems. As a former college athlete, I was extremely disappointed and frustrated in my diminished ability to train and perform at a high level both in the gym and on the field, and I was resigned to the fact that this had a become a life-long issue. In November 2017, I saw a flyer in the Wakefield Fitness Center for Concierge Physical Therapists, so I decided to give it a try given the convenience of therapy at the Fitness Center. I had my first session with Kjersten at the beginning of December, and one month later, as I write this, I can honestly say that I am on the path to recovery!

Within the first 60 minute session, Kjersten not only identified the root cause of my problems but also corrected the main culprit, which provided me immediate relief and enabled me to walk out of the fitness center pain-free for the first time in recent memory. I understand that this sounds too good to be true, so I will provide some additional commentary to bring this into perspective. First, Kjersten’s knowledge was immediately evident as we discussed my situation, background, pain areas, activity level, etc. She then performed a correction technique to address the primary issue, and then we discussed and implemented an exercise and stretching regimen to begin re-training my body as a means to fully alleviate the root causes of my back pain. After one month, I can now complete a workout with minimal to no pain, and I feel more confident pushing myself in the gym and on the soccer field, which I have not been able to do for several years. I will not say that I have been pain-free for the past month. What I can say is that Kjersten provided me a set of tools that allow me to address the issues myself (self-correction), which has been extremely helpful as I can do this at home, at the gym, or wherever needed. The freedom this provides, both physically and mentally, has been a revelation to me as I am not constantly worried about “tweaking my back” and then relying on someone else to provide some relief.

In summary; I’ve found Kjersten to be an educator first and foremost. I now have a better understanding of the systemic causes of my back problem, and how all of the various joints, muscles, etc. work together to provide proper body function. In addition, Kjersten has provided me some techniques to alleviate the pain by correcting the root causes, but also a training guide to reprogram my body so that my issues do not return. Finally, after several years, I feel that I can go to the gym/soccer field and still perform at a high level, with renewed confidence that my body can and will support my objectives. I will continue to attend sessions with Kjersten to further improve, but it is very liberating to know that I am finally in control of my back problem, and not the other way around. I highly recommend Kjertsen’s services to anyone who not only wants immediate relief, but has longer-term goals of understanding why they are experiencing the issues, and wants to be proactive in improving their overall physical well-being.

 

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Wellness Beyond The Workout

by Natalie Clemens

 Dec 02, 2017 at 4:00 PM

There's no doubt that taking the proactive, “apple-a-day” approach to healthy living has gained measurable traction over recent years. But beyond its lighter menus and modern fitness offerings, McConnell Golf is taking further steps in its commitment to wellness. So, what’s next? Massage therapy and physical therapy.

McConnell Golf recently introduced Concierge Physical Therapists to its clubs. Their network of therapists is based on the belief that clients need more than what most high-volume physical therapy clinics can offer.

According to Bryan Williams, founder of CPT: “I believe in one-on-one, hour-long appointments with a physical therapist specializing in manual techniques complemented with neuromuscular re-education and exercise.”

Concierge Physical Therapists has grown substantially throughout the mid-Atlantic area and now serves eight private clubs, including Wakefield Plantation and Providence Country Club, with plans to add the service to Sedgefield Country Club, Country Club of Asheville, and Old North State Club soon.

“Club members benefit from several aspects of our service, including the convenience of receiving physical therapy at their club’s fitness center,” says Williams. “Members get high-level service due to our one-on-one intensive approach.”

All of CPT’s therapists hold doctoral degrees or have 20-plus years of experience working with golfers, tennis players, and non-athletes.

For Wakefield Plantation member Todd Lewis, working with a physical therapist at the club helped him overcome a long-term struggle with back pain. 

"I’ve had recurring lower back pain for the past several years on a spectrum from annoying to debilitating at different times. I received chiropractic treatment sporadically during this time period with some very temporary relief, but which ultimately did not lead to a lessening of symptoms or identification (much less correction) of the underlying problems. As a former college athlete, I was extremely disappointed and frustrated in my diminished ability to train and perform at a high level both in the gym and on the field, and I was resigned to the fact that this had a become a life-long issue. In November 2017, I saw a flyer in the Wakefield Fitness Center for Concierge Physical Therapists, so I decided to give it a try given the convenience of therapy at the Fitness Center. I had my first session with Kjersten at the beginning of December, and one month later, as I write this, I can honestly say that I am on the path to recovery!"

"Within the first 60 minute session, Kjersten not only identified the root cause of my problems, but also corrected the main culprit, which provided me immediate relief and enabled me to walk out of the fitness center pain-free for the first time in recent memory. I understand that this sounds too good to be true, so I will provide some additional commentary to bring this into perspective. First, Kjersten’s knowledge was immediately evident as we discussed my situation, background, pain areas, activity level, etc. She then performed a correction technique to address the primary issue, and then we discussed and implemented an exercise and stretching regimen to begin re-training my body as a means to fully alleviate the root causes of my back pain. After one month, I can now complete a workout with minimal to no pain, and I feel more confident pushing myself in the gym and on the soccer field, which I have not been able to do for several years. I will not say that I have been pain-free for the past month. What I can say is that Kjersten provided me a set of tools that allow me to address the issues myself (self-correction), which has been extremely helpful as I can do this at home, at the gym, or wherever needed. The freedom this provides, both physically and mentally, has been a revelation to me as I am not constantly worried about “tweaking my back” and then relying on someone else to provide some relief."

"In summary; I’ve found Kjersten to be an educator first and foremost. I now have a better understanding of the systemic causes of my back problem, and how all of the various joints, muscles, etc. work together to provide proper body function. In addition, Kjersten has provided me some techniques to alleviate the pain by correcting the root causes, but also a training guide to reprogram my body so that my issues do not return. Finally, after several years, I feel that I can go to the gym/soccer field and still perform at a high level, with renewed confidence that my body can and will support my objectives. I will continue to attend sessions with Kjersten to further improve, but it is very liberating to know that I am finally in control of my back problem, and not the other way around. I highly recommend Kjertsen’s services to anyone who not only wants immediate relief, but has longer-term goals of understanding why they are experiencing the issues, and wants to be proactive in improving their overall physical well-being."

 

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Welcome to Our New Director of Golf

by Michael Thomas

 Sep 29, 2017 at 8:18 PM

Adam McLaughlin Joins Wakefield Plantation as Director of Golf

Adam grew up in Raleigh where he learned the game from Sam Brewer at North Ridge CC and attended Millbrook High School. After high school, Adam played for Appalachian State University where he was voted team captain his senior year in addition to being team MVP his junior and senior seasons. He has spent the last 11 years at Alamance Country Club with the last 6 years being their Head Professional/Director of Golf. 

Adam is a very talented golf professional and will bring his 11+ years of experience in the golf industry to Wakefield. He has a strong passion for customer service, teaching, growing the game to all levels of golfers, staff development and merchandising to our membership. Adam is considered to be one of the better playing professionals in the Carolinas Section with him most recently playing in the 2015 PGA Professional National Championship. Adam won the CGA Club Championship in 2007 and 2012. Please help us welcome Adam, along with his wife Amanda and their daughter Ellie (8) and son Walker (6) to the Wakefield team. 

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REX Recap

by Josh Points

 Aug 24, 2017 at 6:40 PM

At Wakefield Plantation, the 2017 Rex Hospital Open was another resounding success.

Conrad earned his first Web.com Tour title by beating hometown favorite Chesson Hadley with a par in strong rain on the first hole of a playoff. Shindler closed with a 4-under 67 to match Hadley at 15-under 269.

The 29-year-old former Texas A&M player earned $117,000 to jump from 50th to fifth on the money list with $152,528 in his rookie season. The top 25 at the end of the regular season earn their PGA Tour cards. Hadley — a Raleigh native and the 2013 tournament winner who was born at UNC REX Hospital, and his wife had both of their kids there — earned $70,200 and moved up to No. 18 with $101,632.

This was the 30th playing of the Rex Open and the 13th consecutive year at Wakefield Plantation. Any Web.com event takes a tremendous amount of effort to make it a successful tournament. Wakefield Director of Golf Josh Points shares highlights of the event.

For starters, Points notes that Wakefield Plantation Superintendent Todd Lawrence and his staff did an amazing job preparing the course and making the field one of the strongest of the year on the Web.com Tour.

“We know that we run a great event because of the number of PGA Tour players that play,” says Points. “That number will be the highest of any Web event this year. They come to Wakefield because the condition of the course is as good, if not better, than most on the PGA Tour.”

Points says the effort starts with Tournament Director Brian Krusoe, who has helped turn “The Boardwalk” during the event into one of Raleigh’s most family-friendly environments. “The face painting, bounce houses, snow cones, and food trucks are such a great part of the event that gives every family an opportunity to introduce golf to young kids.”

Because of attractions like these, many players bring their families to the event — which is not typical on the Web.com Tour, where funds tend to be tight. “I was impressed and proud to see players with their parents, wives, and children,” says Points. “Players want their families to enjoy a great week, too.”

At the end of the day, the volunteers are the backbone of the event.

“It’s great to see members like Helen Lundie working 100-hour weeks to make the event a success,” says Points. “Christine Perkins does an awesome job arranging player housing, which is one of the key reasons our event is special. The number of members that open their homes and form lasting relationships with players is something we are all proud of.”

Points said he loses track of all the compliments he receives from players, tournament partners at Rex, and the staff of the PGA Tour. Jim Duncan, Web.com Tour vice president of rules, competition, and administration, gave The Rex Open one of the best compliments imaginable.

“He said, ‘Coming to this event feels like coming home in many ways,’” recalls Points. “We have a young club, and the Rex Hospital Open helps us create history.”

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