FOUNDATION
He glanced at her and said, ‘I don’t think so, this is for serious male golfers and then muttered,‘Have you ever played before?’ Denise responded,‘Sure, I tried it a few times...I like the game.’ ‘OK, he warned, try not to break it.’ “ “Denise picked up the driver, took a few practice swings, then placed a ball on the tee. If a shot of 265 yards down the middle with a draw was possible, that’s exactly what she did and repeated it a couple of more times,” shared Weinstein. “She then handed it to back to the rep and said, “It’s nice, but I hit my driver farther. I guess I’m used to it.” The red-faced rep apologized profusely and could only say. ‘Wow!’ Denise and I looked at each other, giggled and walked away.” DENISE - THE TEACHER Over many years Denise developed a good relationship and befriended Tom Weiskopf, the PGA professional and course designer, who died in 2022. Weiskopf shared this Martinez remembrance from their time at Forest Highlands, “Everybody loves Denise, she does everything well. She is a great player and she’s also a wonderful teacher, one of the best in Arizona.”
SAVE THE DATE MONDAY, JULY 8
Get ready to swing into action and rock the greens at the Annual Denise Martinez Memorial Pro-Am Tournament! This electrifying event isn’t just about golf—it’s about making a difference in the greater Flagstaff community through the Forest Highlands Foundation! Our Foundation is dedicated to harnessing the incredible generosity of the Forest Highlands community and directing it toward the Flagstaff non-profit organizations that efficiently and effectively serve our neighbors in need. Get ready for a Rock ‘n Roll time like no other! Save the date and join us for an unforgettable day of golf and making a positive impact in our community! See you on the greens!
An example of her instructional skills has stood the test of time.
Vickie Selzer, Chair of this year’s Denise Martinez Pro-Am tournament shared this memory. “I arranged a playing lesson with Denise many years ago. When we got to the 2nd tee on the Canyon, I aimed way left away from the huge boulder just in front the women’s tee. Denise asked, ‘Why are you aiming over there?’ I said,“Because of that big rock. She immediately replied,“Don’t let the rock win, and then she said, ‘Defy the Rock!’ Which I did then, and have done ever since. I think of Denise everytime I play that hole.” THE FIRST DENISE MARTINEZ PRO-AM The tournament, honoring Denise’s life, got its start in 2010 with the help of Tim Thomas, along with assists from other Forest Highlands members. “I wanted to resurrect a golf tournament as a fundraiser for the Forest Highlands Foundation with the encouragement from Tom O’Toole,” explained Tim Thomas, a former Chair of the Foundation and member along with his wife, Hedy, since 1991.“Jeanne Hall was a Board member who suggested we honor Denise and name the event after her,” shared Thomas in a 2023 interview at the Canyon clubhouse. “We invited the entire Martinez family that first year and they were touched by the honor. Her parents and siblings were in attendance. We wanted to keep the first tournament small with the hope to build on it,” Thomas offered.
If you would like to make a gift, volunteer or learn more about the Forest Highlands Foundation click here.
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VOICE IN THE PINES • APRIL 2024
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