Category: Blog

We’ve talked a lot about the Masters. It’s one of our favorite events, and it’s one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. The only thing we love more than attending the Masters is to tailor our Masters package for you. As experts in corporate hospitality and luxury sports travel packages, we specialize in planning and executing luxurious Masters trips. Whether you are looking for a way to reward key clients or entertain possible business partners, we can help you accomplish your goals through world-class sports and superior hospitality and care.

1. The Masters is an invitational tournament. You will never hear the word “championship” by those involved. The championship-level matches are The U.S. Open, British Open, and PGA. Technically, the winner is not the “champion” of anything. Speaking of forbidden language, when you attend the Masters, you will never hear the words “fans,” “bleachers,” or “sand traps.” Instead, expect to hear “patrons,” observation stands,” and “bunkers.”
2. To golf professionals and fans alike, the grounds of Augusta National are hallowed. From the beauty of the April flowers to the perfectly manicured greens, the course at Augusta National is a sight to behold. Patrons are well aware of this beauty, and almost all of them tend to have a reverence for the course and the event.
3. To join the club, it is reported that there is an initiation fee of $37,500 required. There is also an annual fee required, but this exact number is unpublished. Rumors report that it is under $100,000, which for a club of this prestige is considered a value. Bill Gates and Warren Buffett are both members of the course, and unsurprisingly, they also happen to be the richest members.
4. Each green jacket costs around $250 to make and it takes about one year to produce. This can amount to quite the profit for those members who choose to sell their jackets. In 2017, a member’s jacket sold for $139,349 and in 2013, Horton Smith’s green jacket was auctioned off for a whopping $682,000.
5. The patrons of The Masters are known for their respectful behavior. Case in point, unlike other golf tournaments, at the Masters you won’t see signs reminding spectators to please be quiet. This is largely because the level of understanding and respect patrons have for the game of golf and the prestige of the Masters is unrivaled. Additionally, this mentality is enforced by the leadership. For instance, more than 40 years ago, CBS announcer Jack Whitaker described the scene around the green as a “mob.” Because of this comment, he was not invited back to commentate.
6. For over 62 years, CBS has been broadcasting the Masters. When millions of viewers tune in to watch the Masters, they are pleased to find a lack of commercials. On average, there are only four minutes of commercials for every hour of the telecast. To join the limited number of select sponsors, it is rumored that it requires more than $6 million to get official ad time.
7. In October of 1983, President Ronald Reagan was playing at Augusta National as a guest when his round was cut short by a disgruntled local, Charles Harris, who crashed his truck through the gate and demanded to speak with the president. Before he was subdued by Secret Service agents, he held hostages for two hours in the pro shop.
8. Located just above the main clubhouse is the Crow’s Nest. In this area, amateurs are permitted to stay for the Masters week. This idea was spawned by Bobby Jones and it caught on rather quickly. Of the youngsters who have stayed in the Crow’s Nest, eight of them have won a green jacket – Nicklaus, Aaron, Watson, Crenshaw, Stadler, O’Meara, Mickelson, and Woods are all among the list of amateurs to sleep in these exclusive bedrooms.
9. Augusta National was once home to the Fruitland Nurseries. During its time, it was one of the most successful horticultural sites in the South. Fruitland had millions of peach trees in the 1800s and 1900s, and they are partly why Georgia became famous for sweet peaches. Though these peach trees are long gone, the Berckman’s home (founders of the nursery) still remains on the Augusta National property.

Did you know that Superior Executive Services specializes in luxury Masters packages? Our custom trips include everything you need to make your trip a success. Whether you are looking to charter a private jet for your trip down to Augusta, stock your luxury home with all the food and drinks you need for the week, or live it up in our exclusive Club Magnolia – an executive playground located just outside Augusta National, featuring bars, a cigar terrace, celebrity appearances, gourmet food, live entertainment, and much more – we are ready to make it happen.

Are you gearing up to take your first trip to Aspen this winter? You are in for a treat! With world-class skiing, regular festivals, luxurious dining options, exclusive accommodations, and of course après-ski. To help ensure you have a truly unforgettable time – which is hard not to do in Aspen – Superior Executive Services has put together this list of tips and recommendations for your winter Aspen vacation.

What is Aspen Snowmass?

If you’ve heard others talk about their trip or you’ve done some research, you’ve probably heard a lot about “Aspen Snowmass.” So what exactly does this mean? It is the term used to define the mountain resort that is comprised of four different mounts, all of which are within a short drive of each other. These four mountains are Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk.

Aspen Dining

Aspen and surrounding towns are brimming with superb dining options. From 520 Grill for a quick bite to Cloud Nine or Sundeck Restaurant for unreal views and food, there are too many options to list, but we’ll pick just a few crowd pleasers. Need a ski break? Stop by Bonnie’s to devour some truly delicious oatmeal pancakes. If you are looking for some adventure dining, consider taking a horse-drawn sleigh to Pine Creek Cookhouse where you can enjoy a delectable meal with an unreal view.

Aspen Ski

Skiing and snowboarding in Aspen is a common bucket list vacation. Do you know why? Because it lives up to the hype! While skiing in the winter, you will ride the gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain, granting you access to over 75 trails. On top of this, you can also venture over to some of the other mountains. As they like to say in the area, “one pass, four mountains.” It’s quite the deal, and because they all lie in such close proximity, they can all be conveniently accessed via the free bus system.

Take in the Town

The town of Aspen is truly a winter wonderland. Even if you aren’t able to visit during the peak holiday time, Aspen is the place for winter. And the best part is that much of the town can easily be traversed on foot, meaning you don’t have to rent a vehicle. From Aspen Pedestrian Mall to The Red Onion – Aspen’s oldest tavern in the mountain town – there is something for everyone. Be sure to set aside some time for strolling aimlessly and taking in the town.

Aspen Attractions

There are all sorts of activities in and around Aspen at all times of the year. While there is too much to list here, we will point out some reliably awesome and unique attractions. If you are into music, check out a show at Belly Up. They have world-class acts come through on a regular basis. Also, The Aspen Film Academy Screenings is an annual winter tradition that features acclaimed films and Academy Award hopefuls. If your timing is right, head over to Buttermilk and watch some amazing talent compete in the X Games Aspen. Also, if you are a confident skier and find yourself exploring the untouched snow in the trees, be sure to check out some of the shrines, which pay respect to locals and legends. Oh, and don’t forget the nearby Conundrum Hot Springs. It’s a nice place to soak, relax, and take a steamy dip in the winter – see there are far too many attractions to list.

Après in Aspen

Legendary to the region, après skiing is a must for all those who enjoy a good cocktail after a long day out on the slopes. The term après skiing was coined by our skiing friends in the Alps, and this is more than just getting wasted after a day of skiing. It’s about savoring all parts of the moment – quality drinks, friends, and the blessed experience. Whether you are visiting Aspen for a family reunion or with potential business partners, this can be the perfect way to build long-lasting relationships.

Beyond Aspen

As we explained above, Aspen and Snowmass are two separate locations, offering up distinct activities and fun. Whether or not you are looking to ski more runs or simply see new places, we recommend exploring neighboring areas outside of Aspen as well. Carbondale, North Fork Valley, and Woody Creek are all home to ample adventure.

Have questions about lodging or what can be included in an Aspen vacation package? We’ve got answers. Contact us today to get started.

Looking for a reason to attend the Masters? Here are eight. 

The Ground Rules

Okay, rules aren’t typically a reason to participate in an event, but the Masters is an exception. Saying the rules at the Masters are refreshing is an understatement. There are plenty of places in the world to run around, snap selfies, and be loud. Augusta National is not one of them. There is no running. No cell phones. No tomfoolery. Seriously. If any of the green-jacket clad fuddy-duddies catch you violating the course’s strict policies, you’ll be asked to leave.

The Concession

Price-gouging is sadly the norm in professional sports. But as we’ve mentioned before, the Masters is an event unlike any other sporting event in the world. The unique concessions is certainly a part of this. Augusta National has taken great pride in keeping prices relatively constant for decades. Because of this, you can now get a classic pimento cheese sandwich and a beer to wash it down, all for under $5.

The Course

The course at Augusta National is a thing of beauty. Over its life, it has seen a number of drastic changes — rebuilt greens, tightened fairways, etc. However, one thing has always remained constant: the magical course is a thing to behold. While other tournaments could take place on just about any professionally manicured course, this is not true for the Masters. The events can only unfold at Augusta National.

The Bridges

Have you ever heard about the bridges at Augusta National? These historic landmarks aren’t always mentioned, so we thought we’d pay them some lip service. What makes the Hogan, Sarazen, and Nelson bridges so spectacular? It’s tough to say. Of course, they’re beautiful and help you cross the water. But more than that, they almost serve as a perfect metaphor that links the past and rich history of the event to the present.

The Starters

What makes the Masters experience so special is the tradition. One such tradition is the honorary starters. Each year, one of our most legendary golfers is chosen to strike the first symbolic tee shot of the tournament. The tradition began in 1963 with Jock Hutchison and Fred McLeod. Since then it has been carried on by greats like Nicklaus, Player, Nelson, Palmer, Snead, Sarazen, and Venturi.

The Corner

Amen Corner consists of three holes: 11, 12, and 13. They are notoriously challenging; so difficult, in fact, that they have become a key part in deciding who will don the green jacket. Watching the pros take on Amen Corner is about as spiritual as watching golf gets.

The Lane

Magnolia Lane. Even the name sounds nice. We’re not exaggerating when we say there is perhaps no other course in the world that rivals Augusta’s stunning beauty. While it’s hard to pick the most beautiful part, the fabled entrance known as Magnolia Lane might just take the cake.

The Competition

What do you get when you take the world’s best golfers and let them compete in a tournament steeped in history, tradition, and beauty? You get some awe-inspiring competition. Regardless of whether you post up at Amen Corner or some unnamed corner, you’re guaranteed to see some unbelievable golf.

Learn about our Masters packages and contact us today to get a quote.

The Masters truly is a special event. Not only is it considered to be one the most prestigious sporting events in the world, but it is also considered to be a bucket-list event for both golf fans and non-fans alike. It’s a tournament rich with tradition, history, excitement, and beauty, and it’s also one of the few international sporting events that is relatively untouched by the commercial forces that have diminished the integrity of similar-sized events. To learn more about this special event, check out this list of frequently asked questions.

Who Created the Masters?

In 1933, the Masters was created by the legendary amateur golfer, Bobby Jones, and investment dealer, Clifford Roberts. The first Masters took place in 1934.

Who Won the First Masters Tournament?

The first-ever winner of the Masters was Horton Smith. In addition to winning the 1934 Masters, he also won the tournament again in 1936. 2019 Masters Packages

How Did It Get Its Name?

Initially, the tournament was called the Augusta National Invitation Tournament, but in 1939, Roberts finally convinced Jones to call the tournament the Masters — in reference to the “masters of golf” who participate in the tournament.

How’d the Masters Become so Popular?

Part of the success of the tournament is due to the popularity of co-founder Bobby Jones. The rest of its success is a testament to the unique culture, atmosphere, and integrity that Augusta National has preserved.

Is the Masters a “Major”?

Somewhat surprisingly, the Masters is not a championship tournament. The only three majors are the U.S. Open, The Open, and the PGA.

Why Does the Winner Get a Green Jacket?

The tradition of awarding the winner a green jacket is a throwback to the early days when the Augusta National members all wore green sportcoats, making themselves easily recognizable if fans had questions. In 1949, they decided to award the winner with a green jacket. The rest is history.

Can I Play in the Masters?

Unfortunately, you cannot. There are 19 categories to get invited to the Masters and let’s just say, all of them require some serious golfing chops and acknowledgment. Similarly, becoming a member of Augusta National Golf Club requires an invitation. There is no application.

Why are the Holes Named After Flowers?

The property where the Masters is held used to be a nursery, containing thousands of imported flowers and trees. In honor of this beginning, all of the holes are named after a type of plant.

Who Has the Record for the Lowest 72-Holes?

The lowest record (18-under 270) is held by Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth.

Who Has Won the Masters The Most?

Jack Nicklaus has won the Masters six times — two more than anyone else.

How Much Moola Does the Winner Take Home?

The Masters purse is similar to the three majors. The 2017 Masters winner, Patrick Reed, for example, earned $1.98 million.

How Can I Get Tickets to the Masters?

Tickets to the Masters are limited, so limited, in fact, that it has earned a reputation for being one of the hardest tickets to get in sports. If you want to attend this one-of-a-kind event the superior way, you need to partner with Superior Executive Services. We have Masters packages that can be as general or as custom as you like. Every detail of our extravagant Masters packages is handpicked to ensure that you receive the Superior treatment from arrival to departure.

Thinking about attending the 2019 Phoenix Open? Already have your tickets? Either way, you need to know what to expect. This is why Superior Executive Services has put together this guide.

As facilitators of Phoenix Open Packages — which can include everything you need, from tickets to accommodation to entertainment — we are quite familiar with this big event and would like to help you prepare for this one-of-a-kind event.

Tickets

There are plenty of tickets to the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Because of the layout of the course, large parking lot, and general openness of Scottsdale, the event never sells out. This is all to say, never pay more than face value for tickets. If you are looking for tickets that offer more than general admission, check out some of our Waste Management packages. We can secure your tickets and badges to the coveted Cove Suite 17, Birds Nest VIP Access, Chairman’s Badge, and more!

Additionally, Military and Arizona first responders (along with one guest) are admitted free with official ID. Learn more about this and how to register for free admissions here.

Fans

It’s fair to say that with any sporting event you are bound to run into all different types of fans. This assumption has perhaps never been truer than when you attend the Phoenix Open. Below are some of the most common types of fans you will see:

Families

For families attending the Phoenix Open, the ideal times typically tend to be the first few days of the event — when golfers are practicing and everyone is preparing for the big event. It also during this time that you can take part in junior golf clinics, listen to motivational speeches from PGA pros, and experience all sorts of fun pre-event festivities.

Celebrity Watchers

Anytime you have a gathering frequented by celebrities, you are sure to have celebrity watchers closely following. This is certainly true for the Phoenix Open. This is also to say there are ample opportunities to see and meet celebrities — keep a pen and paper on hand. Whether it’s at the Phoenix Suns’ closest-to-the-pin contest, which pits athletes and celebrities against each other, or it’s during the relaxed practice round, expect to see plenty of celebrities and plenty of people trying to see celebrities.

Golf Enthusiasts

As with any big PGA Tour event, you can expect to see some die-hard golf fans. From the rounds before the field is cut to the final round, golf enthusiast will be following closely. Because the Waste Management Phoenix Open is known for its party atmosphere and non-golf related fun, if you really want to focus on golf and be in comfort, you should consider purchasing Members Club, Greenskeeper, or Clubhouse badges.

Partiers

There’s a reason the Waste Management Phoenix Open is the most-attended golf event in the world — it’s a whole lot of fun. And it’s unlike any other golf event in the world. This four-day event has earned a reputation for being the biggest party in golf. This is a well-deserved reputation, and if you will be attending the event, expect to see lots of partiers drinking, wearing funky attire, and having an all-around good time.

Hole 16 and 17

As you may have heard, the 16th hole is a legendary par 3. There are over 3,000 general admission seats around this hole, and naturally, these are much-sought-after tickets. The key to getting these spots is to hustle, not snooze the alarm, and wait.

For some, what’s even better than seats around 16 is to land a ticket to the Cove on the 17th. Many say this is like winning the Powerball because it offers amazing views of both the course and Pinnacle Peak and the McDowell Mountains, as well as a prime spot to watch one of the most exciting par-4s on the PGA Tour. 

Where to Stay

From upscale resorts with secluded gardens and fantastic pools to budget accommodations, there are a number of great places to stay around Scottsdale. However, the key is finding and booking a place early. Remember, this is a big event that seems to get bigger each year, which means thousands of people are also going to be searching for places to stay.

We have partnered with a number of upscale property owners in Scottsdale to offer our clients the opportunity to have a luxury accommodation during their visit to Arizona. Not only will we provide you with a beautiful, fully-loaded home to stay in, but we can also stock up the place with all the food, drinks, and supplies you need.

What to Bring

As with any other PGA event, bringing all the usual items will likely suffice — sunscreen, cash, water, hand sanitizer, binoculars, comfortable shoes, and other essentials. It’s hard to predict the weather for this time of the year, but what we can say is that the average temperature in January is around 57 degrees Fahrenheit — not too shabby.

What to do After

After the day’s golfing ends, the party is far from over. While there are a number of bars and venues hosting post-match events, the most notable is probably the Birds Nest, which features, bands, food, drinks, and more. Visit the Birds Nest official website for more info. In 2018, some notable performers joined the party, including Nelly, Flo Rida, Florida Georgia Line, and more.

Other Helpful Things to Know

• The entire course should have free wifi hotspots
• There is an app that will give you hole-by-hole update, descriptions, and maps
• One day of the event is the annual Green Out, where everyone, including golfers, is encouraged to wear green to show support for green initiatives
• They will be having a Zero Waste Challenge. Last year, 100 percent of the tournament’s waste was diverted from landfills—meaning nothing from the tournament has ended up in landfills.

Ready to join the world’s best golfers as they gather in Scottsdale for the biggest golf event in the desert? Contact us today!

Looking for some ideas for summer trips? Whether you are a business owner looking to reward your employees, develop new business partnerships with an awe-inspiring trip, or are simply looking to take a family vacation, Superior Executive Services has some ideas for you.

Everyone visits Colorado in the winter — and for good reasons. With dozens of world-class ski spots, the Rockies are the perfect place to visit in the winter. But what about the summer, when the ski crowds have abandoned and (most) of the snow has left? The truth is that Colorado summers, especially in mountain towns, are beautiful. They are full of warmth, sun, epic landscapes, and tons of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Here are four mountain towns to consider for your Colorado vacation.

Telluride, Colorado

If you are looking for a place that will give you the quintessential mountain town experience, Telluride won’t disappoint. The small town of 2,444 people is filled with historic buildings, dating back to Colorado’s Old West era. The town is tucked away in a box canyon, giving it a removed feel that is perfect for a mountain getaway. During the summer, Telluride is home to a number of unique festivals and ample outdoor opportunities, including a visit to the longest free-falling waterfall, golf, fishing, biking, hiking, and so much more.

Ouray, Colorado

Often praised as the Switzerland of America, Ouray is a must on anyone’s Colorado mountain town list. This can’t-miss town is located just south of the San Juan Mountains, which provides a gorgeous snow-capped backdrop for almost any outdoor activity. Whether you want to soak in natural hot springs, take in beautiful waterfalls and hikes, explore one of the many historic walking tours, or simply cleanse your spirit, this mini-Swiss mountain town is a great summer vacation destination.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Nestled at the base of the magical Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is a beautiful mountain town with a hippie flair and a strong mining past. It has been named by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as one of the “Dozen Distinctive Destinations.” Although it can take a while to access this small Western Slope town, it’s well worth the time. Like all Colorado mountain towns, Crested Butte offers ample opportunity for hiking, biking, rafting, and outdoor exploration and activities, including the Taylor Canyon, a local favorite.

Aspen, Colorado

It’s hard to beat an Aspen skiing vacation, but believe it or not, an Aspen summer vacation may give it a run for its money. After Aspen gets its warm-weather makeover, all sorts of beautiful opportunities emerge. Whether you want to take the gondola up Aspen Mountain for some mountaintop yoga, raft down the Roaring Fork River, hike a Fourteener, or simply enjoy the splendor of a mountain town summer, Aspen won’t disappoint. During the summer, the town of 6,700 becomes a music hotspot, hosting events like the Aspen Music Festival and a number of weekly concerts throughout the town. On top of this, an Aspen vacation also provides ample opportunity to experience magnificent beauty and fun in total luxury. At Superior Executive Services, we offer a number of Aspen, Colorado vacation packages that can include luxury accommodations, entertainment, hospitality, and much more.

However committed you are to exploring Colorado during ski season, know that summer can be equally as rewarding. Each Colorado mountain town offers a unique summertime experience. If you need help planning your Aspen, Colorado vacation, contact Superior Executive Services. From arrival to departure, our packages can include top-notch accommodation, entertainment, transportation, and anything you need to accomplish your trip goals.

Although the Breeders’ Cup is relatively new compared to, say, the long-running Kentucky Derby, it has however been around long enough to have some established customs and traditions. Since 1984 this electrifying horse race has been captivating horse racing fans and non-fans alike. From the splendid “Down the Stretch” to the hats, the traditions of the Breeders’ Cup have helped make this one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

In today’s article, Superior Executive Services is going to look at some of these popular traditions. The 2018 Breeders’ Cup will take place on November 2 and 3 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.  If you have yet to book your travel arrangements and secure your tickets for this thoroughbred horse race, contact us today! Our team of corporate hospitality and entertainment professionals can tailor the perfect trip for you, from arrival to departure.

Here are five of the most popular Breeders’ Cup World Championships traditions.

The Breeders’ Cupcake 

For nearly a decade, the Cup has held a competition to select the official cupcake of the Breeders’ Cup. Not only will winning this competition give you some serious baking bragging rights, but, more importantly, it means that your cupcake will be sold at the track during race days and at surrounding events. Over the course of the weekend, thousands of cupcakes are sold, and the best part is that the proceeds are donated to Children Mending Hearts — a nonprofit organization that empowers at-risk US children through education and by connecting them with international children in need.

Fedoras Galore

Often the host racetrack will dictate the fashion of the attendees. However, one thing that often remains constant is the headwear. Similar to the Derby, a trip to the Breeders’ Cup will expose you to a melting pot of headwear. From fedoras to extravagant and flowery sun hats, you can expect to see all types of fascinating head garments at Churchill Downs this fall. During the event, men and women are judged on their head fashion and the winners leave with a nice cash prize.

“Down the Stretch”

Most racetracks and big championship events have an official drink. Similar to how the Kentucky Derby has the Mint Julep, the Breeders’ Cup has a delicious beverage called, “Down the Stretch.” This beautiful creation was first concocted in 2007 and typically consist of some combination of Grey Goose Vodka, Blue Curacao, cranberry juice, sweet and sour mix, and Sprite.

The Flower Blanket

Staying true to horse racing tradition, the winner of the Breeders’ Cup Championship receives a garland of flowers. What makes the Breeders’ Cup garland unique is that it is created with yellow chrysanthemum and purple chrysanthemums, highlighting the race’s official colors and logo.

The Torrie Horse Trophy

Perhaps the most notable tradition of the Breeders’ Cup is the awarding of the Torrie Horse Trophy. Each year, the winner receives a trophy that dates back to the 1580s. The trophy was, of course, not made then, but it is a bronze reproduction of a famous Torrie horse created by Italian Giovanni da Bologna during the late 16th-century. This stallion of a trophy has become an emblem of the race.

Experience the Tradition at the 2018 Breeders’ Cup

This year’s Breeders’ Cup is going to be held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. When you partner with Superior Executive Services to arrange your Breeders’ Cup package, you can expect to be taken care of from arrival to departure. Our packages can be individually tailored to include luxury accommodation, hospitality, transportation, and more.

Every April, Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia hosts the Masters Golf Tournament. This has been a tradition since 1934 — aside from the two-year break during WWII — and if you have yet to witness this spectacular event, let’s just say you should add it to your bucket list.

The Superior Executive Services team loves the Masters — its excitement, tradition, competitions, history, and atmosphere. Just as much as we love experiencing the event itself, we also love helping to facilitate a fantastic Masters experience for our clients. Our Masters packages are created with luxury in mind. We wanted to offer businesses and individuals an opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind event in absolute style.

Travel Back in Time

Those who have been lucky enough to attend the Masters often say that their experience is akin to going back in time. The historic grounds of Augusta National not only offer an inherent tradition, but the facilities and concessions are also capable of transporting you. The course goes to great effort to preserve the integrity of their traditions and to largely appear untouched by change. Perhaps the most apparent example of this is their concessions. Augusta National has made a point to keep prices more or less the same as they’ve been for decades. This gives you the option to fill up your belly for cheap and experience an almost unchanged tradition.

Soak up Augusta’s Splendor

Augusta National is one of the world’s most pristine golf courses. On top of having an unparalleled budget and maintenance team, the natural beauty of Georgia in spring is a true delight. From the immaculate greens to the blooming azaleas that adorn the fairways, the beauty of Augusta National is a thing to behold.

Experience the Corner

The holes 11, 12, and 13 are notoriously challenging. They’re so difficult, in fact, that they have become a pivotal part of determining who will don the green jacket. Because of their significance, sportswriter Herbert Warren Wind aptly named this part of the course “Amen Corner.”

Watching the world’s best golfers take on these challenging holes is an experience of a lifetime. While this is an exciting place to post up and watch, it’s certainly not the only place. When you step into Augusta National, you’re guaranteed to see some awe-inspiring golf, regardless of where you sit or stand. 

With such exclusivity, history, and beauty, it’s not hard to see why the Masters at Augusta National is one of the world’s most renowned sporting events. If you would like to offer this unique experience to your key customers or employees or friends, Superior Executive Services is ready to help. From the time you book to the time you depart, we’ll take care of every logistical problem and let you focus on what matters: having fun and building relationships with your lucky guests.

Since its first running in 1984, the Breeders’ Cup has been a reliable source for some of the world’s most captivating and electrifying horse races. As sports travel professionals specializing in corporate hospitality and entertainment, we love the Breeders’ Cup. In today’s blog post, we would like to share with you some background information on one of the world’s most prestigious horse races.

The Beginning

In Kentucky in 1982, a group of thoroughbred breeders set out to create a championship that would settle who has the best horse in the world. Up until this point, horse racing wasn’t affiliated on a national scale. After two years of organizing and planning, their efforts led to the first Breeders’ Cup race, which was held at Hollywood Park in Los Angeles, California. The event featured some of the world’s best horses and a hefty purse of around $10 million. 

The Venue

Unlike most professional horse races, the Breeders’ Cup changes venues each year. However, although the venue changes, there have been a few venues that have hosted the race multiple times. Santa Anita Park, Belmont Park, and Churchill Downs have all hosted a number of years. Church Hill Downs, in fact, has hosted the event the most — nine times — and it will host it the 2018 Breeders’ Cup as well.

The Horses

There are a few ways to qualify for the race. The first is by winning a Breeders’ Cup Challenge race. The second is by receiving a favorable ranking based on a point-based system that measures a horse’s performance throughout the year. And the final way is to be selected by a panel of horse racing experts.

The Stakes

While the event is relatively new, the trophy that is awarded dates back to the 1580s. The trophy is an authentic bronze reproduction of 16th-century Torrie horse created by Italian Giovanni da Bologna. The trophy, which features a detailed and muscly stallion, has become an emblem of the race. However, with a title like “the richest two days in sports,” the stakes go beyond a trophy. Over the course of the weekend, the Breeders’ Cup pays out roughly $30 million. As you may have guessed, the Breeders’ Cup is a bit of dream for those who love betting on horse races. There are many divisions within the race, as well as an unparalleled handicapping challenge, which means when you get your bets right, you can walk away with a handsome reward. 

Ready to be a Part of Racing History?

At Superior Executive Service, we love offering the type of packages that highlight the luxury and prestige of this great sporting event. Our sports packages can be tailored to individuals and businesses alike. Whether your goal is to win-over potential investors or to reward your top-performing business partners, we can help facilitate an unforgettable experience. Contact us today to learn more about our Breeders’ Cup packages.

You’ve seen the photos. You’ve heard the tales. You get it — Aspen is a great vacation destination. But did you know that, beyond being a great vacation spot, it’s also the perfect place to go for a business trip? Whether you are looking to reward key clients or pitch an idea to a potential investor, conducting your business with the snow-capped Rockies in the background is just perfect.

In today’s blog, the Superior Executive Services team is going to look at a few of the reasons why Aspen is such an ideal destination for your next business trip.

Luxury

Aspen has earned a reputation for being exceptionally expensive. It’s full of luxurious resorts, natural beauty, and many dining and entertainment options. If you are coming to Aspen with the goal of spending some serious dough, you will certainly find plenty of opportunities. This creates an aura of luxury and wealth, which can make it the perfect place to carry out business deals. 

Après Ski

In some countries, like Japan, drinking is an essential part of professional networking. In many cases, business cannot be discussed until after you have had several drinks. While those who have difficulty tip-toeing the line between professional and casual may not want to opt for this strategy, for many of us a drink or two is the ideal social lubricant. If you find yourself in this latter category, Aspen can be the perfect place for you. Aspen is known for its après skiing — a term coined by our skiing friends in the Alps. This is more than just getting sloshed after a day of skiing. It’s about enjoying drinks, friends, and the overall experience — the perfect activity for those looking to build long-lasting business relationships.

Beauty

What do the Ute Indians, hippies, billionaires, silver miners, and anyone else who has visited Aspen have in common? Their jaws have all dropped when seeing Aspen’s natural beauty. Aspen is a beautiful place. Whether you visit in the summer, spring, winter, or fall, the mountains and big, open sky are sure to make an impression on you and your guests. Taking your key clients or potential business partners to Aspen and treating them to its magical beauty can work all kinds of magic on your business relationships.

Tips for Planning your Aspen Vacation

Book Early

Regardless of the season, it’s best to book your visit early. Booking early gives you choice, flexibility, and assurance. Be especially mindful of this if you plan on visiting during holidays, the Winter X-games, spring break, Fourth of July, and other peak-visitation times.

Consider Transportation

Depending on the season, the drive from Denver International Airport to Aspen can take anywhere from three to five hours, and even longer during inclement weather. To avoid this altogether, consider flying directly into the Aspen Airport (psst, we can help arrange this. We can even arrange for a private charter flight).

When in Doubt, Call Professionals

If the idea of booking your trip and arranging transportation and accommodations stresses you out, call us! When you book your Aspen vacation through Superior Executive Services, we take care of every step on your itinerary.

We understand that each client is different, and when you partner with Superior Executive Services, we promise a one-on-one approach. Contact us today to learn more!