Choices Abound for Golfers in Spain
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
A decision to visit Spain for a try at many of their unique golf courses is based primarily on the weather of the region. The diversity of travel from Madrid, where a largely continental Mediterranean clime is sustained, to subtropical conditions in the Canary Islands on to the most beneficial golf climate in the Murcia region will turn up many course choices so be sure to bring along your golf clubs!
Although the inaugural season of the World Match Play Championship at Finca Cortesin is officially in the books, the partnership of Volvo and IMG through the 2011 season is committed to keeping professional golf on Spanish soil with Volvo having its 120th title sponsorship and IMG’s Mark McCormack founding the event forty-five years ago. A connection with both Seve Ballesteros and Sergio Garcia, as well as top golfers playing by invitation only should interest fans as well.
A trip to Spain would not be complete without a visit to Finca Cortesin which was placed on the 2009 “Hot List” by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine and is also a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts.
Although this is one of the longest golf courses in Europe, there are tee areas for many level of golfers welcoming all. Have your sand game at the ready as there are over a hundred bunkers to find and “when you finish playing all 18 holes, you’ll notice that you have played all your clubs.” Also, the spectacular natural vegetation and the uniqueness of each of the 18 holes makes the approximate E95 greens fees easy to digest.
Check out my post on La Manga Club in the Murcia region!
It would be easy to say that a golf visit to Spain should include a trip to Valderrama. Considered by some to be the “Augusta of Europe” and host to some of the most nail-biting victories in professional golf, Valderrama is a private members club with visiting privileges that come at a high cost but always said to be in perfect playing condition.
Real Club de Golf de Sevilla, listed in eighth position of the Top100golfcourses.com and host to several professional championships (and Jose Maria Olazabel’s gem) is not only worthy of a planned visit but, with so much to do in Andalucia as well, golf will not be the only topic of conversation on the first tee. But, also considering that there are over 100 golf courses in the area due to the wonderful climate, golf may be the main topic!
Besides learning how to Flamenco or trying your luck against el Toro, the test of landing on small greens at Sevilla will make you consider working on your short game well in advance of playing this golf course, one of four in the vicinity. Be aware that large fairways of Bermuda grass does not translate into “easy course” as you are forced to navigate through over ninety bunkers, nine lakes and approximately ten thousand trees (did the maintenance crew really count them all?) on way to a par score.
For golfers bringing along family and wishing for both a challenge and a luxurious property in which to spend quality vacation time, several rounds of play at Montecastillo Golf Club will satisfy all cravings.
The Jack Nicklaus designed Montecastillo borders on the Serrania de Ronda Mountain region and is close to Jerez de la Frontera, a spectacular area known for its creation of brandies, sherry and even unspoiled beaches which are said to stretch for miles but beware as the golf course is not known to be created for the faint of heart.
Montecastillo is yet another club which has been host to several professional tournaments and, although walkable, carts are available for the hilly terrain. Voted as one of the fifty best courses in Spain and Europe, the finishing three holes are said to be among golf’s most thrilling events.
Luxury hotels combined with creative layouts of courses and a myriad of unique destinations have made golf in Spain a “must-try”. Stunning landscapes and, for the most part, reasonable weather has turned Spain a popular spot for touristas and golfers who wish to experience European hospitality!
Tiger Woods in car accident
Written by Black Entertainment USA
It’s always a shame to hear of anyone you know of in a car accident. When you hear about a celebrity or entertainer getting seriously injured it feels as if it were a family member, as so many of us follow the careers and news of these people as much as some members of our direct families.
I hope that Tiger Woods will be ok. So far reports are that he is in serious condition. The exact nature of his injuries and the extent of them are unrevealed at this point.
Early details are that he was pulling out of his driveway when he hit a fire hydrant and a tree. It sounds like there is more to this than just that for the degree of injury he is reported to be in. There was no alcohol involved in the injury as reported by authorities.
I hope that the Woods family and friends are alright. I know how it can be to have a family member in the hospital after an accident. It’s not a feeling I would wish upon an enemy.
So far there is no indication what impact thesse injuries may have on the arguably greatest golfer ever. There is no doubt that many fear this could affect his career detrimentally. Which would be a shame as he still has decades left in his career, and I have no doubt that he can break ever record he has yet to achieve.
But if the choice were to have a Tiger Woods that could no longer play golf, or a Tiger that was a lesser golfer than he is, as opposed to no tiger Woods at all I would take either of the first 2 options.
Golf, Hotels and Non-Stop Las Vegas Action
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
When I first visited Las Vegas in 1994, it was to see if the lights and attractions on the Strip would in any way blind me like a deer in headlights. At that time I did not play golf so the visit was purely for the “glamor” experience: to check out the myriad of marquees, dress for dinner, see top entertainers perform, visit the sites and to try my luck at the variety of casinos.
The question was, how does the City of Lights, which is an approximate six hour connecting flight from my house compare with Atlantic City, only two-and-a-half hours from New York? Is Las Vegas worth a return trip?
There are so many new mammoth-sized hotspots in Las Vegas filled with undeniably dramatic touches that it boggles the mind! In recent years travel from casino to casino got much easier with the creation of a new monorail system than when I initially rented the hottest Ford Mustang I could find those fifteen years ago.
In Atlantic City, you can easily walk the boardwalk in an hour or so (depending on how fast your feet travel) without stopping in a casino, which dominates each hotel. On the other hand, during the summer, the beach is laden with bars and live music so you might walk a few hundred feet, stop for a Malibu Bay Breeze and a snack and then stroll to the next. Flying a kite and watching sculptors create visions in the sand are Atlantic City staples too…
But, Mandalay Bay has created its very own beach, complete with lazy river!
Even though Las Vegas is in the desert, the sand cannot possibly be the same, however the attractions are all bigger and never stop, from one oversized vision to the next!
The hotels in Las Vegas trump the boutique-sized ones in Atlantic City, that’s a fact.
Caesar’s is probably the largest connecting group of hotels on the A/C boardwalk encompassing Bally’s and the Wild West Casino but, in comparison to say, Caesar’s in Las Vegas, you may be able to fit it inside the Nevada structure! Also, the moving statues in Caesar’s Las Vegas mall are unbelievable and just one of the amazing attractions to keep mouth ajar during a stay on the Strip.
Resorts complete with casinos featuring the hottest action, the greatest gastronomic delights and high-energy nightlife every night (try to find live music to dance to during an off-season weekday in Atlantic City) can be found in both cities but the hotels in Las Vegas create a spectacle at every turn. From the artwork at the Venetian to Cirque du Soleil at Bellagio, you would have to stay at least a month to see everything there is to see and you would never have to leave the Strip to do so.
Also, now that I am a somewhat “respectable” golfer, able to play from any one of different length tee boxes and challenges, I was happy to see that there are so many golf courses in Las Vegas’ surrounding areas. Of course my chances of competing at the 2009 RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship is slim and none, but, with over 10,000 competitors attempting to qualify for the finals, golf must take on a whole new meaning now in Las Vegas.
Wolf Creek Golf Club in Mesquite, Nevada, is the venue for the RE/MAX World Golf Championships and is said by Cory Clemetson in VegasGolfer Magazine to “put a smile on people’s faces. That’s our goal.” That is my desire too, Cory…that is to smile after 18 holes instead of hiding my golf card in the sand!
Bali Hai Golf Club directly on the Las Vegas Strip is legendary and a place where celebrity-sighting is not unusual. Accolades from “America’s Top 40 Resort Courses” by Golfweek to “Best High End Resort Course in Las Vegas” by VegasGolfer makes this public course a must-see while in Nevada.
Angel Park Golf Club boasts spectacular Red Rock Canyon views and bloody-nose elevation. This public golf course has also received strong praise and is more “reasonable” than other area courses, without giving up it’s natural splendor.
For a golfer, finding the perfect vacation courses, fair prices and a good deal of challenge while, at the same time a memorable experience, can be just as important as choosing a hotel on the Strip. Each hotel/casino has a theme and, if conducive to what you picture from a hotel, it is easy to determine if your picture suits reality.
With the myriad of options available of hotels, casinos and golf courses, the mostly beautiful year-round weather available and the non-stop entertainment, Las Vegas is certainly an attractive must-see for all vacationers. Be prepared to spend about a week and make sure to bring your golf clubs!
Tiger Woods beat by a kid
Written by Black Entertainment USA
So let’s say that you are at the opening of the first Tiger Woods designed golf course in the U.S. Let’s say that to officially open the course, Tiger hits a drive from the first tee. Then he hits another since the first went to the trees. Now Tiger turns to you and says “you want to give it a try?”
What do you do?
Well if you are over the age of 12, you stand there dumbfounded with a mixture of feelings both wanting to give it a shot and completely filled with fear as everyone in watching. Plus there is the psychological factor that if the best golfer in the world couldn’t hit it straight on this course, how could you?
Again I say over the age of 12. Because Mark Benevento decided to take on the challenge from Woods. And take it on he did indeed…
Yes there is nothing like outdriving the best golfer in the world, especially when there are witnesses.
And you have to give it to Tiger Woods. While his shots were hardly the best he has ever hit, he complimented Benevento and pumped the kid up. Many a celebrity would react differently if they were shown up at their day job, but Woods showed a respect that sadly is uncommon today.
Who knows, Tiger might have just inspired his future competition.
Extreme Golf Experiences Around the World
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
As the PGA Tour season comes to a close and enters “silly season”, it is up to amateur golfers to decide whether or not to stash their golf clubs in a corner of the garage or to embark upon an extreme experience to an exotic locale. The serious player never wants the season to end!
From “ice golf” in Greenland to playing “sand” golf in Dubai, experiences that challenge the senses as well as your ability are worthy of the trek, and the “fun factor” of being on unfamiliar territory will surely be a memorable experience.
Grab a flourescent ball for this golf course:
Although temperatures rarely climb above -13 degrees celsius and with a wind chill factor that sometimes makes it feel as if it is -50 degrees in the sun, (did I just say negative 50?) Uummannqaq, located north of the Arctic Circle, is home to the World Ice Golf Championships held in March.. I wonder if there is a large crowd on hand to watch the final round? The west side of the island is also home to Santa Claus, who is storied to live in Spraglebugten Bay. I always thought Kris Kringle carried his own clubs by the size of his toy bag!
Speaking of cold weather golf, although you could just play in your own “backyard” donning an extra sweater and some warm weather gloves, also consider a round at the northernmost USGA golf course in the world: North Star in Alaska. Permafrost creates an ever-changing pattern of dips and swales so no two shots are alike. Be prepared for two games in one when you play here; one event is naturally golf and another is a checklist of the wildlife encountered on the course.
For golfers who want to play whenever the mood strikes, head to North Cape in Norway, in the land of the midnight sun. From mid-May through August, your round can start literally at 10 pm! During your northerly adventure, take the Awesome Eight Golf Challenge. Thought up by extreme athlete Robin Sieger, golfers must complete the challenge by playing “eight of the most remote and climatically most extreme golf courses in the world within the span of a year. The only condition is that they carry their clubs, not using any caddie or cart.”
There are some of us who are snowbirds and others who fly south as soon as the temperature falls below 40 degrees. If you can’t stand the sight of snow or blue extremities at the end of a round, perhaps the world’s hottest locale is a better fit for you.
Merapi Golf Club in Indonesia confirms that they have the world’s “hottest” green as well as panoramic views of Mt. Merapi. Also known as “Mountain of Fire” this active volcano not only dominates the surrounding landscape but has been active for 10,000 years and regularly erupts every one-to-five years. I would not want to be putting for birdie when that volcano spews!
For those of us who love the sight of active volcanos, your vacation is not complete without a trip to the Volcano Golf and Country Club located on Hawaii’s Big Island. The high altitude makes the golf ball go farther (which is better for shorter hitters) and the views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea mountains (they are snow-capped in winter) are sweeping and memorable.
For golf with no “greens” try a round of sand golf at Dubai’s first golf course, one of two located at The Dubai Country Club. Called “browns”, the putting areas on these two desert courses are a “mixture of sand and second hand engine oil compressed with rollers”. Brooms are located near each hole so that the golfer can “brush” to smooth out footprints.
Of course these are just a few of the marvelous experiences created for golfers around the world. Thanks to the internet, adventure is just a “click” away.
Seek and ye shall find, for the adventurous sort!
Myrtle Beach deserves a mulligan!
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
What makes a golf course destination like Myrtle Beach worthy of a mulligan?
Some may say it is the beauty of the natural surroundings, others conjecture that the challenge is the most important factor when deciding whether or not to revisit a course during a vacation.
One of the most meaningful factors to consider as to whether or not to return to a facility or club would be the fun I had during my round. Although the saying of allowing a “smile be my umbrella” is easier said than done on the golf course, it also helps when the destination offers a plethora of experiences to take the mind off of the more than occasional ugly shot.
Let’s face facts; although I am a competitive golfer, I’m certainly no Annika Sorenstam. I play within myself and have had my share of rounds in the 80’s but, for the most part, I too am a weekend duffer, relegated to twilight rounds and whenever time allows.
It is for this reason that, when I decide to plan a short, weekend bounce, I head over to Myrtle Beach. Over one-hundred golf courses allow me choices depending on my comfort level and natural beauty, which seems to be almost a given since, according to the EPA, “a typical urban golf course is 110-120 acres and courses in resort areas may be 170-190 acres.”
During my yearly visits to Myrtle Beach, I have played some courses on a recommendation only to find that the track (Tidewater, for example) was completely out of my league. Add to that the fact that the golf course was designed for real “players” and in a downpour with winds whipping about, it’s enough to get your knickers in an uproar, deciding never to return.
Other courses I have played on several occasions after having a wonderful experience on the cushy, open and well-manicured fairways. Myrtlewood Palmetto and the Myrtle Beach National “triple play” are two that come to mind. Although the Myrtlewood Golf Club offers both PineHills and Palmetto courses, Palmetto’s scenic landscaping and playable challenges allowed me the opportunity to score well yet feel as if I struggled a bit to chalk up those pars!
King’s North Golf Course, Myrtle Beach National, was a favorite during one of our weekend jaunts. Accolades include being named one of “America’s Top Ten New Upscale Courses”, being dubbed one of America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses as rated in the 2007-8 edition of Golf Digest Magazine and also considered as one of the Top 100 for Women (by the now defunct Golf for Women Magazine. It’s “signature hole”, the par-3 island green, is as much of a must-play as the bronze statue of Arnold Palmer guarding the entrance of Myrtle Beach National is a “must-see”.
South Creek and the West Course round out the golfing “trifecta” at Myrtle Beach National, making these three courses worthy of a visit from high handicappers right down to scratch players whose idea of a day out on the links is to beat the “King” himself! South Creek is relatively short and is also woman-friendly (not that a man can’t have a “go” at it as well) but the West Course is as challenging as the North. If you deign to play all three, you will not be disappointed as the country club atmosphere permeates through the acreage.
The 2009 Myrtle Beach Golf Course of the Year as chosen by the MBAGCOA is Shaftesbury Glen Golf and Fish Club. Last year, this same venue was also voted one of the Top 50 Golf Resorts in the United States by Golf World Magazine. Golf Digest has mentioned that Shaftesbury just might have the best greens on the Grand Strand as well, placing this destination on my list of future “must play”golf courses.
Myrtle Beach is not all about golf, despite the top level of courses intertwined within the Grand Strand. Beach lovers will enjoy the view from right outside their condomimium balcony where there are plenty of activities for adults and kids alike. Even so, make sure the little ones get a get a golf club in their hands at least once during the stay, even if it’s a sand wedge on a deserted stretch of beach! They’ll literally have a blast out of the sand!
Other options for fun include trips to the Nascar Speedpark, Ripley’s Aquarium, House of Blues and Broadway at the Beach where you’ll find great food and nightlife for the bigger kids!
You never know what you’ll see at Myrtle Beach. Once I arrived to see warbirds flying overhead! You may be one of the many people who, after visiting the Grand Strand, decide to make it a permanent vacation stop as this destination was recently been named as one of the top-ten most popular places to own a vacation property in the world!
For an inexpensive yet extremely satisfying stay, place Myrtle Beach on your short list so you too can experience it’s good vibrations!
Will Tiger Woods let the FedEx Cup slip through his fingers?
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Despite the fact that Tiger Woods missed his final putt at the 18th hole of the Barclays, he still made watching the event a nail-biting experience. Instead of fans cheering Woods to victory, however, this time his legion of die-hard followers were holding their breath as easy two-footers became part of his dilemma.
“Man,” Woods said, “to miss as many putts as I did this week, to still have a chance on the last green with a putt, it goes to show you how good I am at hitting it.”
Yes, Tiger is one of the greatest ball strikers of all time but it cost him just as much on the scorecard to slice one into the woods as to miss short putts. As Ian O’Connor mentioned, Woods’ putter was “completely overmatched”.
Could it be that Tiger has lost his moxie, is becoming less concerned about his game thus practicing his putting a bit less and is allowing his family to consume more of his time? Placing less importance on his game but savoring the important things in life could be the best thing that ever happened to Woods.
In spite of his misses, the number-one golfer in the world still has five wins to his credit this season as opposed to guys like Heath Slocum and Y.E. Yang who struggle to keep their tour cards each week. Woods is also leading the FedEx Cup playoffs in points and is still the hands-down favorite to win the $10 million prize.
So, Tiger Woods’ “B” game is still strong enough to batter his opponents even though, on occasion, secondary Tour players shine. Every once in a while, a Riddick Bowe beats a Mike Tyson…that is what keeps fans coming out to watch.
As far as considering Woods’ year a “letdown” (see link credit below) when comparing him to Roger Federer, each great player has had to defeat their “archrivals” but I believe that these enemies also come from within. Tiger Woods may be allowing this momentary lapse of career interest to occur only because, “our player career is a little bit longer than theirs (Federer).”
As for Jack Nicklaus, the jury is still out but, with time on his side, I think Woods will shake off his malaise and easily surpass the Golden Bear.
Can Michelle Wie win without team support?
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Michelle Wie really wanted all of the “judges” who convinced themselves that she isn’t all that great a golfer to see her in all of her glory at the Solheim Cup, and with three and a half out of a possible four points to her credit. She really shut down the naysayers!
Is the “confidence boost” that Michelle Wie used to define her week in biennial match play against Team Europe at the Solheim Cup enough to change her psyche from just another player to winner? Can she finally become the female golfer that the LPGA Tour will look towards in order to boost their own ratings?
As one of the most expressive cheerleaders of Team USA, Wie proved that she has a voice and is a solid team player to boot! This may also be the defining moment in Wie’s career as well; the moment that fans will remember long after her first win, placing Michelle on the road to greatness.
Then again, maybe not…
“I think I played with as much passion as I could. I think I played with as much desire and hunger as I wanted to. I think it was absolutely phenomenal, this experience that I had,” mentioned a ‘hyped-up Wie.
Did Wie say, as I wanted to? Does that mean that she doesn’t feel the same way about playing in singles matches? Perhaps then, MW should be playing more team golf at Stanford and less on the Tour until she conquers this fear.
In addition Michelle stated, “I did not want to come to the 18th hole, but it came down to that and I did what I can do,” concluding that her nerves were jangling but in spite of it she learned to conquer her fears and just go out and play.
Wie must now play on the LPGA Tour and win an event. She must win by a large margin, not because her opponent fails but because she shows confidence and strength from within.
Congratulations to Michelle Wie and to Team USA for taking possession of the Solheim Cup for a two year stint.
On this week’s Golf for Beginners podcast, David Leadbetter’s two golf club psych tip, bad last second swing decisions and how young is too young to learn about golf?
Will Tiger Woods be too old to take Olympic gold? Also Harrington on Woods and John Daly limps off course again
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
A word within almost every sports column in the United States is that Tiger Woods ‘choked’ and gave up a 54-hole lead at the PGA Championship to the golfer who stood in 110th position before the Sunday start, Y.E. Yang. Did Tiger choke or only prove that he is human after all?
‘Choke’ is a strong word to associate with Tiger Woods and it is not supposed to happen to the one golfer that everyone believed to be made of steel, an alien from another planet to many fans. Some may say that he brought his “B” or “C” game to the final round of the fourth major and others may claim that Woods now has chinks in his armor but rimmed putts are hardly the stuff of failure.
A second place finish yesterday makes it difficult to say that Tiger allowed “a hungrier, more focused, more composed golfer kick the stuffing out of him” as written by Jay Mariotti. Let us reserve that visualization for Padraig Harrington whose quintuple bogey forced him to drop his head once again and sigh his way through another event with Tiger in the field.
Should golfers in future events be less fearful in a face-off with Woods?
Five wins this season is hardly a sign that Tiger is slipping off of his pedestal but lacking a major win this season also cautions fans that he can be beaten. Woods doing negative self-talk? That hardly ever happens either and perhaps Tiger is not even aware of it but when he rolls the playback, which he will, I’m sure that Woods will come back stronger than ever.
Fed Ex Cup golfers, BEWARE!
As far as Olympic glory in 2016, I don’t think a forty-year-old Woods will compete but, on the other hand, the gold medal would look great in his trophy room. The problem is, could folks stand it if Tiger only came home with a bronze medal?
Golf for Beginners also reviews Padraig Harrington’s thoughts on why Tiger should have won the PGA Championship and how any golfer can follow his progression.
We also look at the real reason why John Daly walked off the golf course at the PGA Championship.
La Manga Club: Golf and Travel in Sunny Spain
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
“I have seen dawn and sunset on moors and windy hills Coming in solemn beauty like slow old tunes of Spain.”
Excerpt from “Beauty”, a poem by John Edward Masefield, English poet laureate
Following in the same vein as my recent interest in playing golf at the Ailsa Course at Turnberry, I have also decided to select several other destinations that I am going to make a strong effort to visit over the next several years. Although I can only cross my fingers and hope that this happens, I consider this a “wish list” of sorts.
Sometimes when you wish hard enough, your wish can come true!
I love the sun, beach and golf, so I always make sure to include that “trifecta” when planning a holiday. The Murcia region of Spain happens to offer the most hours of daylight of any continent and so I am considering a visit to La Manga, Europe’s most famous golf resort.
The Mediterranean climate boasts sunshine more than 300 days per year! Couple that with 1,400 acres of top-notch facilities, and I cannot believe that this resort is not on the tips of more golfers’ tongues.
The resort town of La Manga del Mar Menor (aka ‘the Sleeve of the Minor Sea’) is on a strip of land which separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Small Sea (Mar Menor). La Manga was originally formed by an accumulation of sand carried by ocean currents. Volcanic, as well as other sediments came to the surface to form Mar Menor.
It is attractive to touristas who simply want to get away from their natural habitat for pure pleasure. Windsurfing, sailing and water skiing are popular because of the location of both Mediterranean and calm inlet. I don’t think I am the type of person to enjoy diving but, isn’t that what vacations are for…to try new and exciting things that you would never think of trying before? Perhaps a small cliff… If you are an equestrian, there are both Andalucian and French horses (and Shetland ponies for the kids I’m told) which are great for beach and countryside trots.
I chose to “visit” La Manga Club Principe Felipe because it has top-notch
facilities and visually stunning areas allowing me to choose between relaxation by day and frolicking at night. The 1,400 acres of land boasts a five-star hotel, world-class spa, three world-class golf courses and both golf and tennis academies (practice makes perfect). Las Lomas Village on the property features townhomes, apartments and a more tranquil setting but both offer the same amenities.
La Manga was named European Golf Resort of the Year, and it is easy to see why it has received such outstanding accolades. The South, North and West Courses offer championship layouts and stringent tests with tricky slopes that demand exacting course management. Bring your patience for these courses but, with the incredible vistas, it should be easy to relax, regardless of the outcome! Kids are also welcome to play golf with parent/children golf tournaments scheduled every week.
No kids? Me neither! La Manga also offers the spa experience, a piano bar that offers wine and cheese tastings and, for a night on the town, visit Gran Casino Cartagena.
Although many people select accomodations based on what is within the walls of their resort, touring the surrounding areas offer a glimpse into the life of locals as well. Visiting small villages, museums and the ancient port of Cartagena will allow me to get to know the past and present culture of the area.
A visit to Spain is definitely in my future. A week at La Manga is just what I need to restore my well-being. Sunny Costa Calida, here I come!
Tiger Woods tips on hitting the mud ball, Solheim Team wild about Wie, 18 holes in only an hour and are WNBA fans interested in golf?
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Does Tiger Woods’ victory at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational portend another major failure this week at the PGA Championship?
Although Woods put on a clinic this week, he may just as easily fail in his bid to win a single major tournament this season. Reuters mentioned that Tiger “sent out an ominous warning to his rivals” for the upcoming major event, but, as we have seen from Tiger this year, he has not been able to close the deal on one major title this season.
Perhaps Tiger should be content realizing that there are plenty of PGA Tour events left to play this season concentrating his efforts instead on tying, or beating Jack Nicklaus’ record. Knowing that just the sight of Woods creeping up the leaderboard or tied for the lead causes the best golfers in the world to fall by the wayside (most recently, Padraig Harrington’s disastrous flub at the 16th) should be enough glory in itself.
Even if Tiger fails to win a single major tournament this season, fans should consider his five wins in 2009 a sign that Woods is the man to beat on the PGA Tour.
“Just being able to come back and play and be successful again has been a tremendous step in the right direction,” Woods confirmed.
But is this the Tiger Woods that fans want to see: father, husband and humble winner or “Super Tiger” as the Examiner calls him, “the Tiger that the media, sponsors and fans have created…invincible to everything from Kryptonite to Sabbatinium.”
Although fans are a fickle bunch they know to expect a certain degree of fireworks whenever Tiger Woods is in the field. That being said, Harrington and the rest of the defending field better have golf balls filled with Kryptonite to have a chance at defeating Woods this week.
Golf for Beginners offers a Tiger Woods tip on hitting the dreaded mud ball. We also discuss the validity of Dean Knuth’s assumption that golfers can play a round in one hour. The reasons why Team USA is wild about Michelle Wie is also a topic as well as if golf is a good half-time fit at WNBA games.
Michelle Wie takes rightful place on Solheim Cup team. Also, How many Buicks does Tiger Woods need, throw your ball at the tee and Forsgate CC
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Michelle Wie has overcome yet another obstacle on the yellow-brick-road to greatness with her selection onto the Solheim Cup team. The question is, will she assist her fellow teammates or will heatstroke prevail, forcing Beth Daniel to place her on the sidelines?
Wie has been given exemptions and handouts by the powers-that-be for so long that many people are wondering whether or not she deserves this honor and if she will make the most of it come “crunch time”.
The choice of using Michelle Wie happens to be the right one for a number of reasons. The most obvious reason is that the ladies on either Solheim Cup team will become better known and their popularity within their sphere will rise.
Michelle Wie also deserves to be selected this time. In spite of the fact that this is her first year on the LPGA Tour, Wie has risen to thirteenth position on the points list due to an eleventh place finish at the Women’s British Open. Although Wie has not won an event yet as a rookie, give her a chance…there have only been sixteen events to date with another major and half a season remaining to make her mark.
The choice to put Juli Inkster on the team is similar to the Wie decision in that Inkster has been without a win for three seasons. Experience is where the two part company and Juli has plenty with eight appearances under her belt. Inkster is a consummate team player with a 14-8-5 career record and has not lost a single match in eleven years which makes her a great choice for this event.
During the announcement of the final selection, Michelle was asked how it feels to her to be one of two captain’s picks. Wie replied, “It was one of my biggest goals this year and I’m just so excited to be wearing this jacket and this hat and to be representing my country; it’s such a thrill for me. I’m just so honored and so thankful that Beth picked me and I’ll do my best not to let her down.”
Will Team Wie (oh, I mean Team USA) get along and will Michelle become an integral part of the LPGA after offering an assist or will she fade into obscurity offering tons of fodder to those who believe her to be a second-rate LPGA golfer?
Golf for Beginners also discusses Tiger Woods’ return to the winners circle and a great drill from Gia Bocra-Liwski, golf professional at Forsgate Country Club.
Tiger Woods: more than just a winning golfer
Written by Black Entertainment USA
I was thinking about Tiger Woods win Sunday at the Bridgestone Open. It’s not the fact that he now has 70 career wins and 14 majors that impressed me. It isn’t the fact that he has been rated the number 1 player in the world longer and more consistently than any golfer ever before. It has nothing to do with the fact that he is the best paid player in the world. He is humble.
More than any other athlete I can recall since Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali, Tiger Woods is a pinnicale of respect. When talking about his win on Sunday he stated
He didn’t need to say anything about Padraig Harrington. He could have boasted about his record of 14 wins every time he leads a tournament after 54 holes. He could have even insulted Harrington about the triple boogey he shot once the stopwatch came out. But he didn’t.
Not that this is a new thing. Back when he first became a pro and won the Masters, Fuzzy Zoeller made the infamous comment
Woods was diplomatic in his response. Which I could have never done.
When the controversy over lynching Woods was started by Kelly Tilghman
“Lynch him in a back alley”
“
Woods again took the high road. Again I could not in the same situation. Nor can I recall another athlete in most any sport that has done so in equally infuriating circumstances in the past 2 decades.
It is this that separates Tiger Woods from other athletes. This is what drives fans to his competitions and cheer him to victory. This is what is missing in most every other major sport in America (at least).
Today there are several great athletes. Some are intelligent, some are talented, many are wealthy. Few though have even a touch of the international appeal of Woods. None have his grace under fire and public humility.
When was the last time you heard a baseball, or basketball, or hockey player stand up and defend the ability of their competition. I mean sincerely doing so? You never hear it in boxing, or the MMA, nor dare I say wrestling.
Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer in my lifetime, and in my opinion ever. That’s just the raw talent and dedication he maintains. But it is his humility and thoughtfulness (that I sometimes disagree with) that really impresses me.
He isn’t about ‘bling’ or other ghettofabulous insanity that the media proclaims to be the only definition of Black in America. He is educated. He is a phenomenal businessman. He is a good father. He does make great effort to donate time, money, and his fame to help children. He is a role model.
As much as everyone will laud his many sporting accomplishments, I think that is the real impact and importance of Tiger Woods. I just wish that the major news media might highlight that from time to time as well as his winning streak.
Michelle Wie climbs to mediocrity, Tiger Woods says ‘keep it down’, and world golf attractions
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Michelle Wie is being “considered” as a possible U.S. Solheim Cup golfer but is it in the team’s best interest to have her on their side?
After a disappointing bid to gain points at the Evian Masters where she could only muster a tie for 23rd place, Wie appears to be slipping into LPGA mediocrity. It is true that Michelle currently has a decent rookie year under her belt with five top-ten finishes in twelve starts, but she isn’t a steady player. Wie is also behind in the total number of points needed for a top contender as this is her first official year on the Tour.
Since Michelle Wie did not play in the U.S. Women’s Open, she missed the opportunity to gain double points but since the British Open is at hand, Michelle has another opportunity to catch up to the tenth position held by Natalie Gulbis.
Beth Daniel will have to wait until she sees Wie’s performance at the British Open in order to determine whether to make Michelle the Captain’s pick although Wie is definitely on Daniel’s “radar screen”. The problem with Wie is that Daniel wants “someone who’s playing really well going into the event.”
Even Wie is a bit concerned about her ability to place in the standings this week noting that she has to get her tee shots working and get her groove back.” But pray tell, at nineteen, where could her groove have possibly gone?
We cannot even compare her performance in last year’s Open as she accepted an invitation to play in the PGA Tour’s Reno-Tahoe Open after not even receiving a shrug for a wild-card spot from the Ladies’ Golf Union. In 2007, Michelle Wie summed up her British Open experience with an 80 and an M/C.
If I were Beth Daniel, I would consider Pat Hurst for the U.S. Solheim Cup team. Hurst is a professional team player with six wins in her 16-year career under her belt. You definitely need someone who the team respects as a ‘mate’ and I don’t think the ladies really like Michelle all that much.
Of course, even those people with a passing fancy for golf would certainly tune in if Michelle Wie was defending the Cup. What a wonderful sight it would be to see Wie and her teammates, faces painted with the American flag, raising the Solheim Cup in victory!
This week on golf for Beginners, we discuss Michelle Wie’s LPGA status. Tiger Woods’ golf tip also proves that a four-iron can get you closer to the pin than a flop-shot. We also let you in on a few great golf attractions from the longest course in the world to a short par-three at Turnberry that shouldn’t be missed!
Ailsa Golf Course at Turnberry Resort, a British Open legend
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
The 2009 British Open is now in the books and golfers are looking forward to the PGA Championship, which is hurried along in order to make more room in the schedule to accomodate the $10 million Fed Ex Cup.
The season is going by way too fast for this lover of the sport! I cannot watch four days of phenomenal golf without ever dreaming about what it would be like to visit Turnberry Resort, and play golf on the revered Ailsa Course (pronounced “ale-sa”) where Tom Watson nearly made history for the sixth time in his career! I’m sure though, that my score would not reflect my true potential!
Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson’s 1977 “Duel in the Sun” brought Ailsa to public view as a golfing destination but it has been the stuff of legends way before that! Read Robert Burns’ poem, Tam O’Shanter, and you will begin to immerse yourself in the folklore that surrounded Scotland as early as 1790.
The wind blew as ‘twad blawn its last;
The rattling showers rose on the blast;
The speedy gleams the darkness swallow’d;
Loud, deep, and lang, the thunder bellow’d:
That night, a child might understand,
The deil had business on his hand.
Turnberry Resort is a blend of history and golf where you can stare at the sea for hours, play golf at either of two of the leading golf courses in the world and check out the surrounding sights, from Bruce’s Castle to Ailsa Craig. But, before you think that heading there is like taking a trip through the past, be aware that Scotland is very much a thriving metropolis, boasting high end retail shops, galleries and museums.
If I’m considering ever flying to Scotland, my main focus will be on the golf and to enjoy what Turnberry has to offer. Carry your sticks and take a walk along with me as I shed a few fast facts about Turnberry Golf Club and the Ailsa Course.
The Ailsa Course and Turnberry Resort sit on 800 acres of beautifully manicured greenery with equally unparalleled vistas of the Irish Sea.
The Ailsa Course was ranked as Britain’s number one golf course and the first purposely-planed golfing resort in Britain. As recently as July 15, 2009, Ailsa at Turnberry was ranked the number-one golf course on Scotland’s Top 100 list!
Ailsa Craig, also known as “Paddy’s Milestone”, is two miles in circumference and rises to 1,110 feet. The Craig is actually a volcanic island which was once a haven for Roman Catholics during the 15th century Scottish Reformation.
The lighthouse, was commissioned in 1873 and is the oldest man-made structure on the premises.
Turnberry almost met its demise during the first two World Wars as it was used as a landing strip by the Royal Flying Corps. Can you believe that those verdant fairways were utilized to protect and defend? The acreage also became a base for planes to protect shipping convoys and the golf course we see today is barely reminiscent of its former glory, although Philip Mackenzie Ross did a fine job recreating the Ailsa Course from scratch.
This was Tiger Woods’ first year playing at Turnberry and, only for the second time in a major championship as a professional golfer, missed the cut. Tiger admitted that the course was “tough”, further noting that “It’s a lot more difficult than people are letting on.”
Another links course, the Kintyre Course, sits along the shoreline as well, and is meant to round-off Colin Montgomerie’s Links Golf Academy, also on the premises. The Academy uses the nine-hole Arran course to teach Montgomerie’s philosophy, “You want to get around a golf course in as few shots as possible, and that’s what we at the Academy believe we can teach you.” Ah, just like Colin; always thinking positive!
I am going to think positively as well, hoping that one of my future vacations include a visit to this enchanting resort, but, I think I’ll skip the Haggis!
The Ladies’ British Open Amateur as well as the Scottish Ladies’ Amateur were played here as early as 1912. I wonder how the winners, Miss G. Ravenscroft and Miss C. Leitch would describe Turnberry today, as they walked Ailsa?
LPGA joins the Navy, Bivens walks the plank.
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
After LPGA golfers signed a petition rallying for the resignation of Carolyn Bivens with a show of “no confidence”, the Tour is now searching for a permanent replacement.
Lorena Ochoa, Paula Creamer, Natalie Gulbis and Morgan Pressel were among fifteen golfers concerned about issues facing the LPGA including a loss of seven events since 2007. The latest bailout of the Kapalua Classic was probably the nail in the coffin for Bivens. Morgan Pressel was the winner of the inaugural event and she happens to be the Tour Pro there as well.
What a blow for Carolyn Bivens, the first female commissioner in the LPGA’s 55-year history!
Early in her career with the Tour, Bivens can be credited with establishing guidelines for the protection of players’ rights and enhancing the image of the LPGA as young and vital. Remember how viewers USED to see the LPGA?
Retired Navy Rear Admiral Marsha Evans has been appointed as the interim commander of the LPGA. With experience serving as CEO with the Red Cross during Hurricane Katrina to her credit, the Admiral may go down with the sinking ship.
Evans resigned from her position with the disaster-relief group taking with her $780,000 in severence pay. Red Cross spokesman Charles Connor noted, “concerns about her management approach and coordination and communication with the board,” as reasons for her ousting.
Annika Sorenstam has been appointed as an advisor to the LPGA Board but it might be a better idea if she was elected as the new Commissioner. Sorenstam is popular with both player and venue, well-versed on how to run a business and promises “to ensure that the LPGA remains the pre-eminent women’s sports association in the world.”
The future of the LPGA?
This week on Golf for Beginners, we also discuss Phil Mickelson’s “forward press” drill from his new DVD set, “DVD Set “Phil Mickelson Secrets of the Short Game.”
Golfing in Australia just got longer
Written by Black Entertainment USA
Over the years golf courses around the world have extended their grounds to counter the improvements of technology, and golfers like Tiger Woods and John Daly. It’s something that has become commonplace, and by now almost everyone has already made their changes. Except for one course in Australia, where the concept of big eludes even the Texas definition.
Australia? Yes, the country down under. Known for kangaroos, Paul Hogan, and extreme bias against the aboriginal people that were the original owners of the country, the country now hosts a golf course that is so unique that I doubt another like it will ever be built.
This par 71 golf course, Nullarbor Links, is roughly 848 miles long. Yes, that is miles and not a typo. Not even Daly can drive that. In fact, it is so long a course that it takes 3 days to play one round. Some of the holes are 60+ miles from each other. It is actually longer than England.
Now before you bewilder your mind with thoughts of greens that roll forever, I’ll tell you the gimmick. There is just 1 hole each in towns stretching across Southern Australia. The goal is to spike tourism as golfers travel across the nation, hitting some of the lesser known spots and landmarks along the way.
Will this idea work in the global recession? Would anyone spend 3 days playing the same round of golf? Is the idea of driving an hour or more to reach the next tee worth the time to get to Australia? Well the answers will come in October when the course opens up.
Oh, as an added bonus you do get a certificate if you finish the course. No word yet on the cost though. Which I really can’t imagine. Guaranteed it won’t be cheap. But I’d consider it if any of the proceeds actually went to charities for the Aborigines.
Could Tiger Woods’ win at ATT foretell problems at the British Open?
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Tiger Woods has made it a habit to win two weeks before a major tournament this season. He won Palmer’s, Nicklaus’ and his own event in this fashion and, because of this, fans are waiting to see if this streak will cause him to falter during the third major of the year.
Is it possible that Tiger Woods could fall prey to the “middle of the pack” at the British Open?
Prior to the 2009 Masters, Angel Cabrera’s best finish this year was a tie for thirteenth at the Northern Trust Open. He was cut from the Arnold Palmer Invitational where Tiger Woods solidly annihilated the competition. Cabrera’s stats are also not that impressive: he currently ranks 187th in driving accuracy and only 140th in greens-in-regulation. It is only because of his major win that Cabrera now ranks twentieth in money leaders on the PGA Tour.
Golf afficionados can now say that they have heard of Lucas Glover but, prior to a strong 2009 season and a win at the U.S. Open, Glover had only two top tens in 2008. Taking more of an interest in his game has improved his stats dramatically and only now is the name Glover synonymous with a piece of history.
Anthony Kim learned a valuable lesson as to how to challenge the Tiger at the ATT but can he employ his method at the British Open? “I learned that if you have a birdie putt, you better make it,” Kim said. “Tiger obviously is a proven winner for a reason and he makes the putts when you have to do it.” Shining your belt buckle in Woods’ line of sight may also help, AK.
Still, this is a true “Open” in every sense of the word. “Any certified professional or amateur with a scratch handicap” can qualify for the event which means even the least obvious contestants have an opportunity to shine.
Woods is going to be difficult to beat at the British Open and has already amassed three Claret Jugs during his career. He will be hunting for both his 15th major win in Scotland as well as coming closer to matching Nicklaus’ record. Although Tiger has never played Turnberry, he is practicing to have his game “dialed in”, feeling confident “with my swing, short putting, everything, then start getting the feel for how to play over there.”
This week on the Golf for Beginners podcast, former top LPGA golfer Annika Sorenstam provides her keys to choosing the right golf club. We also offer a few new product reviews and update you to the effectiveness of our previous tests.
Tiger loses twice in NY, the LPGA needs Woods versus Wie and handy golf rules to keep in your bag.
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
Tiger Woods was defeated at Bethpage Black not once but twice in one month! The first loss came at the 2009 U.S. Open where Woods’ putter let him down. Lucas Glover, a relative “apprentice” on the PGA Tour, defeated the top brass there and Tiger probably needed to convince himself that it was the man, not the course, that kicked his butt.
Seeking out a “rematch” of sorts, Woods took on SNL comedian Jimmy Fallon where it seemed certain that Tiger would triumph and gain bragging rights on the ‘Black’. But this match did not ‘officially’ take place on the golf course. Instead, it was through the new Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 that the number-one golfer in the world attempted to ‘raise’ the coveted trophy.
In a meeting arranged by EA Sports, Woods and Jimmy Fallon teed off in Times Square, Tiger wearing his Sunday red shirt, black pants ensemble and Fallon sporting typical publinks trademark of jeans and polo shirt.
Unfortunately the game was cut short. Woods did something that we, his truest of fans, would sadly never believe possible; he conceded after the third hole mentioning, “I just got killed at my own game.”
Tiger is now not the only famous Woods out on the golf course. Cheyenne Woods, the niece, was given an exemption at the Wegman’s and although she missed the cut, it was her first foray into the world of professional golf. Michelle Wie might have come in tied for tenth place, but all eyes will surely be following Cheyenne in the future to see if she has the eye of the Tiger.
A mere twelve strokes separated Woods and Wie this past weekend after the first two rounds of competition. Although Cheyenne did not mention Wie by name she did have this to say, “I’m going to use this tournament to see how I handle large galleries and how I stack up against the best women golfers in the world.”
‘Uncle Tiger’ and Cheyenne were both students of Earl Woods, with similarities that propelled Tiger into greatness. Watching and waiting with bated breath, the world wonders if Cheyenne will be the next superstar to shine the spotlight brightly onto the ladies tour.
As far as who is considered the “hotter golfer” in the areas of both athletics and looks, Fannation.com “Throwdown” fans are undecided but I’m sure, as soon as Cheyenne Woods starts making strides in golf, she will certainly be a force to be reckoned with in the LPGA.
Golf for Beginners show also interprets which training aids can be used during a round and how you can make a golfer replay his shot with the use of Rule 10-1.
Interview with Zachary Majka about the Dick’s Open Pro-Am Tournament
Written by Black Entertainment USA
Recently a friend of mine, Zachary Majka (part of my APA 8-ball team and going to the Las Vegas Nationals with me), was able to have an experience that many golfers only dream of having. He was able to play in a Pro/Am golf tournament. This Pro-Am was the Dick’s Open Tournament at En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott, NY on June 25, 2009. I was able to get him to share a few questions about the experience.
Michael Vass: Tell us a little about you.
Zarchary Majka: I am 25 years old, married for 10 months now with a new house and 2 dogs. I have been golfing for about 8 years now and I love the game. I play in a league on Monday nights and also try to get out for another round during the week if time permits. I really can’t play enough. I have one saying that sums it up
“Born to golf forced to work, so many courses so little time.”
Michael Vass: How did you get to enter the Dick’s Pro-Am Tournament?
Zarchary Majka: My employer was a sponsor in the Dick’s Open Tournament and because of that they had an appreciation tournament for all sponsors. At that tournament they have a dinner and they randomly pick 8 players to play in the Pro-Am. I was the 8th player picked!!!!
Michael Vass: What handicap are you?
Zarchary Majka: My handicap was 17 for the Pro-Am
Michael Vass: How many days were you able to play?
Zarchary Majka: I played 1 of the days. Thursday June 25th 8am
Michael Vass: Who were you playing with?
Zarchary Majka: The Champions Tour Pro that I played with was Lonnie Nielsen
Michael Vass: How was the course?
Zarchary Majka: The course was in impeccable shape, thick rough, fast greens and lush fairways.
Michael Vass: Any difference from playing the course when the Pro’s aren’t there?
Zarchary Majka: I have played the course a few times when it wasn’t prepared for the Open and yes, I most definitely see a difference in the grooming.
Michael Vass: What was it like to play with the pro?
Zarchary Majka: At first I was very nervous and scared that I would play bad. But playing with a pro was amazing. Lonnie made me feel at ease and gave helping advice when needed.
Michael Vass: Did you learn any tips, what kind of person was he, how was the caddy, ect.
Zarchary Majka: I was hitting the ball to the left often (slicing) and I asked him why am I doing that? He explained why and gave me a tip on how to hit the ball more straight on a consistent basis.
He said that I needed to bring my hips through before I make contact with the ball, and I am happy to say that he was right. It works because I did it at my golf league on Monday night.
Lonnie’s caddy, Gipsy, was a funny short big bellied Italian who loved to talk and was very helpful with his reading of the greens and giving the distances of shots from the fairways, sand and/or woods occasionally.
Michael Vass: How did you score?
Zarchary Majka: In the Pro-Am our team shot 13 under and was tied for 9th place.
Michael Vass: What is it like for a normal person to have a crowd around you?
Zarchary Majka: It was very different that just playing in league or going out with your friends. It gave me a new appreciation for the pros on what they mentally have to deal with, and deal with it they do!!
Michael Vass: How did your pro ultimately do?
Zarchary Majka: Well its funny you ask because he went on to not only win the 2009 Dick’s Sporting Goods Open but he did it with the lowest 3 round score on the Champions Tour (this year or in history not sure). He shot a 21 under.
[For the record it was a 195 3-day total for the win, beating Fred Funk by 3. The record was for the 3 year Pro-Am at En-Joie. In addition Neilsen’s 63 was the lowest final round score for a winner on the Champion’s Tour this year.]
Michael Vass: Anything else you would like to share with us regular duffers about the experience?
Zarchary Majka: It was just amazing and something that will be with me forever, an experience of a lifetime!!
Can Michelle Wie and Natalie Gulbis find happiness outside the ropes of the U.S. Women’s Open? Also weight shift drill
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
After watching the struggles of both Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson (among the other great golfers) at the 109th US Open, it can be said that this was the year of the initiate, not the veteran. Lucas Glover, who had only won once in his career on the PGA Tour astounded and amazed the crowd with his steely gaze, focus and lack of emotion while both Woods and Mickelson fell short of the basic skills needed to get the job done.
One can almost compare Glover to the lovely Natalie Gulbis who has also had a single victory but who, along with Michelle Wie, failed to qualify for this year’s U.S. Women’s Open and may be watching from the sidelines. Will either be offering Twitter commentary? Not likely!
What separates golfers who qualify from those who don’t?
When John Daly missed qualifying for the U.S. Open, he remarked that his feet were tired and the greens over in Europe were much slower than those in the States adding, “talk about not even sniffing a putt!” Solid putting, therefore, is the single most important part of any player’s golf game.
Glover, who had missed the cut in three previous Opens acknowledged that his lead “can be attributed to putting and patience” and is currently “ranked seventh in putts made from between 15-20 feet.”
Now, considering why Michelle Wie, for example, did not qualify for the Women’s U.S. Open, she revealed that she was swinging really well but “just couldn’t get anything going, and some of the putts didn’t drop.”
Should the USGA bend the regulations to assist the LPGA (and NBC) retain a slipping fan base or are the rules the rules? Originally, the policies stated that the top thirty golfers would be admitted to the U.S. Women’s Open but now only the top ten automatically qualify. Well, the USGA says that it is for the good of the game…
You certainly wouldn’t need to bend the rules at the U.S. Open to accomodate Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson because of the excitement factor of the entire field but, for the U.S. Women’s Open, it could be the difference between increased ratings and hearing crickets chirping in the distance.
Would it have mattered if Gulbis and Wie played in the U.S. Women’s Open? Not likely as both missed the cut last year. Michelle’s quintuple bogey on the ninth hole at Interlachen said it all.
Golf for Beginners also discusses a weight shift drill which will allow you to stop that ‘reverse C’ and point your club more directly at the target.
Woods, Mickelson pairing at U.S. Open? Kodak golf shots worth $1 million, casting drill
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
What do Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington and Angel Cabrera all have in common? Aside from major victories in 2008, all three will be grouped together during the first two rounds of the 109th U.S. Open.
This was a smart pairing by tournament officials as each has a story to tell.
Tiger Woods is not only the defending champion (holding off Rocco Mediate and a bum knee) but also held on to victory (and a score of par) in 2002 at Bethpage with Phil Mickelson on his tail. With fourteen majors under his belt, a fresh win at the Memorial and a great family behind him “I couldn’t be happier than where I am right now”, Woods is ready to tackle Jack Nicklaus’ record.
“It’s five to pass him, four to tie him,” Woods said. “I’m healthy enough where I think I can give it a go.”
Harrington is one of the odds favorites this year (+2500 for a payout potential of US$2500 on every US$100 bet at SBG Global.) Paddy should be as he has won the past two British Open Championships as well as last year’s PGA Championship. Sure, Padraig may be a bit stale coming out of the gate (his best finish this year on the PGA Tour is a tie for 11th) for but make no mistake; when the chips are down, Harrington goes into champion mode.
Cabrera has made five cuts this year on the PGA Tour but his crowning achievement for 2009 has to be victory at the Masters. Going for an Angel-slam, Cabrera should think back to his 2007 US Open win (his first in the U.S.) where he bombed drives and putted with aplomb in spite of hitting only five fairways in the final round to beat Woods and Furyk.
Where does Phil Mickelson fit into the U.S. Open fervor? Paired with golfers equally qualified to get the job done (Goosen and Els) he has taken second place in the Open four times, with three of those battles taking place at Bethpage. Always a bridesmaid? This could be the year for FIGJAM’s vindication on the Black Course.
Will any of the golfers read the warning before stepping out onto the first tee? Will being a “highly skilled golfer” be enough this week to escape the treacherous conditions at Bethpage? Tiger Woods’ belief that the Black is “as big as they come” and a course where “you have to hit the ball well all week.” will certainly come in handy.
Tweeting from the golf course is not permitted however there should be plenty of fist pumps.
Golf for Beginners also discusses the odds of the only male contestant remaining on the Big Break and offers a golf drill from Rick Smith for those who fish better than they golf. We also wonder if Chris DiMarco can hold on to his lead at the $1 million Kodak Challenge?
John Daly interview. Also, an environmentally friendly mosquito repellent that works!
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
John Daly says that he is finally done with the “drama” in his life, has signed an endorsement deal with both an energy drink company and Loudmouth Clothes and is returning to the PGA Tour at the St. Jude Championship next week courtesy of a sponsor’s exemption. He will also attempt to qualify for the U.S. Open. Another major win? Daly maintains that his confidence, his fighting spirit and his “feel for the game” will direct him in a positive direction.
Daly has played solidly in Europe, honing his skills with the assistance of golf instructor Rick Smith and believes he is “ready to play” on the PGA Tour. After the BMW Championship, JD mentioned to the Associated Press, “I’m not going to be (half-trying) like I’ve done in the past. I know I may not play the tour if something good doesn’t happen. It’s making me work harder.”
John enjoys connecting with his fans on a regular basis through social marketing websites, Facebook and Twitter, tweeting to keep them up-to-date on his life journey. In fact, that is precisely how I met Daly. His responsiveness is precisely why I decided to follow him on Twitter.
After communicating for some time, I asked him if I could email him a few sentences longer than 140 characters. Well, the Lion responded and here is the result of our email contact.
What are you and Coach Rick Smith working on?
Daly: Finish the backswing and shorten my putting stroke.
It seems almost every one on Tour these days pairs a mental coach alongside of swing coaches. Do you have a mental game coach and, if so, what kind of thoughts are you instilling?
Daly: I use my golf coach Rick Smith and we try to set goals and positive re-inforcement.
What charges you up during a tournament?
Daly: Having a good round prior to a tournament start.
How do get rid of negative thoughts during a round?
Daly: Make a birdie.
Are you afraid of anything?
Daly: Snakes, gators and ex-wives.
Golfers always played in funky clothes. Now that you’re playing in Loudmouth Clothes, people are taking notice. Do you think its the clothes or that you are wearing them or both?
Daly: Both
Do you think it’s becoming a necessity for sports celebrities to connect with their fans or are you just interested in what your fans are thinking?
Daly: I have always been interested in my fans.
Does Twitter fascinate you and why?
Daly: I like that I can send messages direct to my fans and it comes from me.
Do you use other social networking sites?
Daly: Facebook and JohnDaly.com Follow John Daly on Twitter.
A 66 at the Italia Open, good results all around on the European Tour with the BMW PGA Championship just around the corner. Do you feel the European Tour is affording you a way to hone your game for when you are reinstated into the PGA Tour?
Daly: The European Tour guys are just as great as the US PGA Tour guys.
Have you had any conversations with the powers that be on the PGA Tour regarding with which event you will be reinstated?
Daly: Yes, June 1st.
Do you think your suspension was fair and, agree or not, do you think the suspension helped you as a person?
Daly: No, I don’t think it was fair at all, further mentioning to the AP, “I don’t really feel I deserved to be suspended, but I’m not going to dwell on it. I’m going to turn it into a positive. I’m getting my life back in order and I’m more organized.”
Does good golf mimic good life or is one of the qualities of being a successful pro the ability to overcome it (obstacles)?
Daly: Good Golf means a more confident life both personal and in my game.
Right now, if you could choose the Race to Dubai or FedEx Cup which one would you dedicate yourself to and why?
Daly: I would like to do both.
John Daly is currently focusing his efforts on the Race to Dubai where he has a shot at the $1.6 million dollar prize. Daly is ninety-fourth in the standings and only the top seventy competitors are eligible to compete in the season-ending Dubai World Championship. There is plenty of time left to make a move and, with Daly’s commitment to his future growing day-by-day, we might just see the Lion roaring in the winner’s circle!
Golf for Beginners show also includes a discussion about the new, environmentally friendly Bug Bam mosquito repellent.
Would trash talking tweets help Michelle Wie’s performance? Also the cheapest putter may be right for you.
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
The public usually sees LPGA and PGA Tour golfers as an illustrious and highly regarded group, quotable and predictable in their demeanor. You rarely hear about an offensive or derogatory slur and, if you do, it is quietly handled by the powers-that-be (unless John Daly is involved and then it becomes fodder).
Michelle Wie, for example, is becoming one of the more quotable golfers on the LPGA Tour. She is highly visible to the media and her public image is full of aplomb. Her most recent stylized excerpt?
“You know, like I always say, dream high and stuff, set your goals up high, and I think it’s definitely - I’m not saying it’s an easy goal to achieve” …Stanford?
That’s all well and good but how would Michelle Wie, and the LPGA Tour in general, handle a dose of “trash talk” amongst each other? Does any of that occur on or off the course and would it make the LPGA more interesting?
Charles Barkley, during a recent media conference stated, “The best part of sports, number one is winning. The second best part is trash talking with your teammates. But they’re trash talking in every single sport. Let me tell you something, I played golf with Phil Mickelson, Tom Lehman, Billy Mayfair, Dudley Hart. I’ve played with a lot of pros. And if you don’t think there is some trash talking going on out there, you’re crazy.”
Would you tune in to more LPGA events if microphones followed the ladies and if you could overhear their little digs at each other? Usually trash talk is all in good fun but highly effective. I think that it would increase ratings!
Carolyn Bivens said she would “love it” if some of the more outspoken Twitterers such as Christina Kim and Morgan Pressel would reach out right in the middle of a match. As Bivens related, “fans are 12-, 13-, 14-year-old girls and boys. They’re not waiting for the golf broadcast on Saturday and Sunday.”
“They want to know what’s going on in the middle of the round,” asserted Bivens, “we’re going to get out of the collared shirts and khaki pants and make golf chic, hip, happening.” The LPGA frontwoman also maintained that Kim and about 30 other LPGA pros will help to make LPGA golf more “relevant”.
Pressel was waiting at the 14th teebox during a practice round yesterday, chatting it up with Michelle Wie, another tweeter who has links to several other LPGA golfers including Jeehae Lee and Paige Mackenzie (who mentioned that her 8-iron head just fell off as the grips were being changed!)
Imagine the number of fans who would follow the LPGA if Pressel and Wie went head-to-head during a match and bantered “tweety trash talk” to their fans!
“Hit ‘em hard - they’ll land somewhere,” Pressel may click to MW’s Twitter page.
“#1 BABY! you know… its hard 2 b humble,” responds Wie, trying so hard to keep her tweets UNDER 140 characters.
Perhaps Carolyn Bivens should encourage this new media correspondence although the PGA Tour does not allow communications devices on the golf course. But, just as the LPGA now allows bloggers to cover events, it is only a matter of time before we see golfers clicking away to their opponents on their qwerty keyboards during an event typing, “You’re away Michelle!”
Do the Caddyshack and the hole-in-one and don’t let your macho get in the wayfrom Golf for Beginners by golfforbeginners
Submitted by Golf for Beginners Blog
With the excitement surrounding “the new and improved” John Daly’s return to the PGA Tour and the buzz encircling 2008 Rolex Rookie of the Year Yani Tseng’s win at the Corning Classic with an upcoming second major try at the McDonalds LPGA Championship, golfers are getting out onto the course in droves attempting to mimic the shots of the professionals.
More often than not, amateurs are stepping to the back tees and seeing more of the golf course than need be, and this usually refers to the men! Does this sound like you, Mr. Macho? Whereas women, in my opinion, are inclined to play a game of accuracy, men have a tendency to ignore course and slope ratings in favor of the thrill of “tipping it out” with a similar level of ability as from a more forward position.
But, is it such a terrible affair to try your luck from the tips, not worrying so much about which teebox suits your skill level or will it help improve your game in the long run?
If your tee shots are shorter than your opponents, you may not be able to “drive for show” and you may be forced to use longer clubs on your approach to the green. The inability to outdrive your competitor may actually creep into your mental game, psyching you out and forcing you to question your ability.
Commenters on the Golf Channel’s discussion boards agree that ego plays a large part in the game of golf. Problems that ensue include overswinging as well making bad course management decisions.
As one analogy stated, “If you were a beginner or intermediate skier would you ski down a double black diamond run? Unlikely.
Most recently I have been placed into the position of playing from the “whites” or men’s tees (in many cases) and found that the game changes enormously as you step back. After several attempts of struggling with my long game and mainly woods, I moved forward to the ladies tees and the result was definitive! I actually found myself more self-assured, with my entire game cooperating from tee to green.
I can’t hit a golf ball 295 yards just short of the green like Michelle Wie does so my ego is put on hold by keeping home plate at the senior tees!
This week, Golf for Beginners focuses on fun and easy golf exercises to improve core strength and flexibility so that, when you do get out to the course, you will be the Tiger on the tee!
