New golf academy class offers wholistic approach

The Cantigny Golf Academy's 2016 clinic and golf school offerings include an expanded VISION54 curriculum led by teaching professional Gay Crain.

VISION54 is a different approach to instruction that nurtures positive personal development and performance. The aim is to create golfers who play better and get more enjoyment from the game.

Crain, a graduate of the ANNIKA Academy and VISION54 Coach Training, joined the Cantigny Golf Academy staff in 2015. In her first year, she conducted a training course based on the teachings of VISION54 and the best-selling book "Play Your Best Golf Now," by Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson. The workshop was so well received that Cantigny decided to ramp up VISION54 in 2016.

The schedule beginning this month features a prerequisite VISION54 overview course, followed by three optional follow-up courses that go more in depth on specific skills. The first VISION54 class begins Thursday, April 21.

Instructed by Crain in four one-hour sessions, the course repeats in May, June and August. Class size is limited to five golfers ages 14 and older. The cost is $160.

"Golf is meant to be enjoyed," Crain said. "VISION54 embraces that and shows us how to get out of our own way, play better and start having more fun on the golf course."

Cantigny's VISION54 courses represent a process, a philosophy, a new outlook and a holistic approach toward golf. The series introduces the 8 Essential Playing Skills and the tools to play your best golf.

"VISION54 principles can help you become your own best coach where it matters most, on the golf course," Crain said. "A big part of this is mental and learning how to nurture positive emotions when you play."

Connie DeMattia, PGA director of instruction, believes VISION54 adds a valuable dimension to the Cantigny Golf Academy.

"The academy is a comprehensive training center, and that includes the mental and game management side of golf," he said. "VISION54 is for all golfers, and anyone taking the class will love Gay's enthusiasm and personal coaching skills."

To register, visit www.cantignygolf.com or call (630) 260-8199.