Everybody loves a champion. How much more can you love a group of champions? How about world champions?

World-champion ladies compete in Mobile, Alabama May 10–16, 2010.

That’s exactly who you will see when you attend the 2010 Bell Micro LPGA Classic at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Magnolia Grove in Mobile, Alabama. And yes, this players list includes American superstars Cristie Kerr and Michelle Wie along with seven more of the Top Ten LPGA athletes in the world.

The newly renovated Crossings Course where the tournament will be played is one of two championship layouts at this location. Not only does it offer a challenge via the hilly terrain and elevated greens, but the natural beauty of the thick forests makes it easy to peacefully focus on your game. The fact that it is ranked among America’s Top 50 Affordable Courses helps to reinforce your good decision to play there.

Practice rounds begin Monday, May 10, with the final strokes landing approximately 5:00 Sunday. Cheer for these fiercely competitive ladies for just $10 for one day or $40 for the tournament pass. Packages and special 18th-hole seating begins at $125. See the tournament website for details or contact Carrie Pearce at 205-262-2832 or cpearce@brunoeventteam.com.

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Spring brings thoughts of the freedom of warm days ahead, including plenty of water-related activities to be enjoyed. But as you look forward, don’t miss a unique opportunity to peek into life on the seas as it was more than 500 years ago.

Replicas of two of Christopher Columbus' ships visit Gulf Shores March 10-15.

Replicas of the Nina and the Pinta—yes, two of the ships used by Christopher Columbus—will be docked at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores, Alabama, from March 10 through 14, along with a knowledgeable and passionate staff eager to answer questions.

The Nina, Columbus’ favorite of his three famous ships, exists in replica form as the only floating museum of its kind. The Pinta replica was built with a handful of modern amenities and is available for private parties and charters. Both are a type of ship called a caravel, which was commonly used as a trading vessel. And both were recently handcrafted using old-fashioned tools but without the benefit of an actual blueprint from their day.

Since February 2009, these two ships have been making their way around the U.S. After a short break for the crew and some time to make any needed repairs and adjustments, they are back on the seas and ready to delight crowds at a number of destinations throughout the country.

Plan now for your opportunity to learn about the ships, about Christopher Columbus, and about life during the Age of Discovery. Walk-aboard, self-guided tours are open from 9:00 to 5:00 each day. Tickets are just $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens, $3 for students, and free for ages 4 and younger. For more information, call 284-495-4618, or visit The Columbus Foundation’s website.

Stay informed of local activities, vacation rental specials and more by subscribing to this Discover Alabama Beaches blog and Meyer Muse, and by following Meyer Real Estate on Twitter, Facebook and MySpace.