I’ve been covering golf and the development of the game for over 30 years. I’ve been “In the Dirt” with Mike Keiser and his sons, Herb Kohler, Johnny Morris, Tom Pashley, Kelly Miller, Pete Dye, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, David McLay Kidd, Tom Doak, Gil Hanse, Jim Urbina, Tom Fazio, the Jones brothers, Rod Whitman, Jay Blasi, Keith Rhebb, Riley Johns, Kyle Franz and many more. Restorations, renovations and new builds, from the Home of Golf to the Cradle of American Golf, Bandon Dunes to Streamsong, Barnbougle to Rosapenna, Goat Hill Park to The GOAT: Old Tom Morris, it has been one ongoing adventure and education on the history of the game, golf course architecture, a quality experience, hospitality and value. In other words, specific answers to the common question: “Where do I stay and play?” And if you’ve been along for the ride, if you’ve sent me a DM or bumped into me at a pub or in an airport, you know I’ve always been willing to share insider info, best kept secrets or nuggets that help you and your friends maximize the return on your investment into your next getaway.
There are a lot of events out there and it’s a buyer’s market for golf destinations. Between my days at Golf Digest and Golf Channel, and as the “Commissioner” of the Uncle Tony Invitational, I’ve dipped in, documented and organized some of the best buddies trips in the world.
With a Bonfire, you’re always going to get a quality venue, competition but with an emphasis on camaraderie, a useful and trendy gift bag, great value, special guests and a memorable experience from check-in to departure.
Coming off a successful Bonfire at Pasatiempo in December of 2024, we’re on to Gamble Sands in July. Then look for an exclusive opportunity to get eyes on Loraloma in the Texas Hill Country. We’re working on Ireland in 2026. I can’t wait to get back to Melbourne and Tasmania. Crazy Mountain Ranch in Montana? Coral Mountain in Coachella? Pinehurst and/or Pine Needles? Streamsong makes sense. So does Sand Valley. Big Cedar Lodge. Forest Dunes. Barton Creek. I hope to share some of my favorites with you and your crew.
By definition, a Bonfire is a large controlled burn. Together, let’s light ‘em up.
Matt Ginella
