GOLFChicago 2026-1 WEB

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ed with one client and one goal. Now I manage multiple businesses and a strong team. If you have an idea, go for it. Even if you don’t succeed at first, you’ll be happy that you tried.” A Life Well-Lived As she reflects on her 20 years in America, Daria’s pride is evident — not just in her professional achievements, but in the relationships she’s built and the example she sets for her children. “My family is everything. They’re why I work hard and the reason I remember to slow down and enjoy the moments.” Her journey is far from finished — with new goals, new rounds of golf, and, as always, new challenges on the horizon. But for Daria Harris, each day is another chance for a fresh start, another hole to be played, with persistence, joy, and an open heart. Editor’s Note: Both Daria and her husband Adam are my students at GOLFTEC in Vernon Hills. I always look forward to seeing them on the schedule because in addition to being wonderful human beings, they’re also a lot of fun.

in recent years. For Mallory, establishing stability and consistency has become one of her greatest motivators. Leading a golf operation is as much about people as it is about the game— and Mallory thrives on fostering both. She’s cultivated a close-knit staff, rec- ognizing that their buy-in and longevity are essential to building a vibrant club culture. “I would be kind of nothing with- out them, and now I’m just working to get us to stay here together for a decent amount of time. Consistency is key.” As head professional, her impact is felt across the club. Mallory devotes some of her time to teaching—provid- ing roughly three to five lessons a week, with a deep focus on junior golfers and women. The PGA Junior League team she leads is especially close to her heart. “Some might say the head pro’s time could be used elsewhere, but that’s really important to me,” she says. Encouragingly, about half her les- sons are now with female golfers—a shift Mallory is particularly proud of. “I just love when the opposing team sees me and the girls on my junior team. It means the world to me.”

Mallory also takes seriously her role as a visible leader in the club community. She’s moved closer to Royal Melbourne, calling Arlington Heights her home and deepening her roots in the area. Her commitment goes beyond just sport—she believes her position can inspire not just young women, but anyone considering a non-traditional path. Despite the challenges that come with high expectations, Mallory loves the rhythm of life as a head professional. She embraces the opportunity to guide the club into a new era, focusing on mentor- ship, operational stability, and growing the game at all levels. “I’ve kind of grown up a lot in these past two years; I think I have my footing now,” she shares. “I hope to stay at Royal Melbourne for a good while and bring back the tradition of a head professional being a part of the club’s fabric.” As she looks forward, Carr’s vision is clear: to make Royal Melbourne a home—for herself, her staff, and the growing community of golfers she leads. With her, the club isn’t just maintaining the course; it’s charting a bold, inclusive future.

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Its accolades include a 5 AA Star Hotel rating, the AA Best UK Spa Hotel, and consistently being ranked among the Top 50 UK Hotels by The Times and The Sunday Times . The spa has also retained its Five Bubble luxury status. The links courses of the Southwest of England are more than just places to play golf; they are chapters in the game’s history, carved by nature and perfected by the greatest architects. From the mono- lithic dunes of Burnham & Berrow to the ancient burrows of Royal North Devon, the panoramic quirks of St. Enodoc and Perranporth, and the 36-hole colossus of Saunton, this pilgrimage offers an authentic, exhilarating challenge. Pairing this untamed golf with the refined luxury of the Saunton Sands Hotel and The Headland Hotel creates the quintessential Southwest golf itinerary: a journey where the thrill of the Atlantic wind is matched only by the warmth of West Country hospitality. For those who believe golf should be a battle of skill, a test of spirit, and a communion with the wild coastline, the Southwest awaits. Learn more at www.irish-links.com/ ultimate-england.

Located right off of Interstate 55 in Channahon, IL, Heritage Bluffs Golf Club, known as The Bluffs, offers both a challenge and composure across its rolling 166 acres. Premiering in 2026, fully reimagined bunkers featuring Better Billy Bunker technology! This includes new bunkers, removed bunkers, and updated bunkers all for a better quality of play. In addition to an award-winning course, The Bluffs also features a large all-grass practice range, putting green, new expanded chipping green and bunker, and a modern clubhouse. The clubhouse is open 7 days a week and features a full dining room and bar as well as indoor golf simulators for year round fun!

Host Dan Roan

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