Figured we were getting deep into the Winter one, and now that spring has sprung for most of us, a new thread is in order. Fill it up, hit em straight, and birdies to everyone!
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For the Mizuno fans out there
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CofswqfNkdw/?igshid=ODM2MWFjZDg=
Had a weird occurrence with the GHIN site this morning. My last two scores (from Sunday and Monday) which showed as posted yesterday disappeared this morning.
They also happened to be the first two scores I posted through the Arccos app. I heard that GHIN was down for a bit last night. Anybody else lose a score from Sunday or Monday?
P.S. I contacted GHIN support through my state golf association.
Hmmm...that is weird. I posted my Sunday score on Monday, and it's on GHIN.
Did you check today? Mine were there Tuesday, but not today.
I see you aren't in New England or upstate NY, so you are in-season...GHIN should be accepting posts.
I'd just go right to the GHIN app and post. Use Arccos to track stats, but manually input scores into GHIN?
I'm in NE, on the Cape. Posting season began on April 1st.
upstate NY, Maine, and Vermont are the 15th.
Surprisingly Delaware is April 1 as well. Maryland is March 15. Virginia:
I believe ours used to be 4/15, and they moved it up a couple of years ago.
I posted 3 scores already this year, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, through the Grint app. Those scores are there.
Arccos added functionality to upload to GHIN last month. Last year I used the Grint to upload.
Hey guys- bumping up from the old thread-
I go camping in Cape Henlopen delaware for a week every year. Last year, me, VTnerf, and MasScott got together that week and played a round in Ocean City MD. We are planning on doing the same this year at a southern DE or Ocean City MD area course (yet to be determined) during the week betwwen 7/22 to 7/29. VT nerf thinks he might have a VT fourth person, but I was thinking if there were 4 more of you guys that are in that area and are interested we could put together a little 8-person team tourney type of event-
Are any of you guys also in that area and possibly interested?
I had something happen to me on the golf course this weekend that I've never seen before.
Playing the second hole, OB left and I yank one. It's headed out and hits a tree squarely just off the course and drops straight down. Get up to the ball and it's out. Sadly that's not the part that I've never seen before. I take a drop in the fairway at a cost of two strokes.
There is a chocolate lab that is kinda wandering around the fairway. Looks lost or frightened. My buddy gets the dog to come over to him to see if he has a collar. Well the dogs attitude changed instantly and he decided that my yellow ball that I just dropped in the fairway belonged to him as he grabbed it and took off.
We couldn't stop laughing. Hope the dog found its way home and enjoys the Pro V1 he stole from me.
I'd be convinced that owner has him trained to go find balls on the course.
Bandon Dunes was incredible.
We're junkies Joe. Don't just tease us with that. Give us the details.
Yeah Joe, gonna need a full recap!!!!!!
Plz.
The views are better in person than you can even imagine. These courses, they were designed by some all-time greats, and that still hasn't sunk in for me. The courses all piss risk/reward and it's just so fun to play them as 103 one-hole courses. I walked 18, 18, and 31 on three successive days. Don't do that. I didn't find out about the
Theragun in the room until after 27 holes. That would have really kept my legs together. Even so, it's hard to really enjoy the experience with that much golf stacked and there are plenty of non-golf things to do in the day.
I did Preserve on the last day, which you should, but we did it in the morning. Next time around it will be the last round of golf we do so we can let loose at the end.
On any day you play multiple rounds, pack an extra set of socks in your bag. Order the fucking meatloaf.
These are my personal course rankings:
1. Bandon Dunes
2. Bandon Preserve
3. Pacific Dunes
4. Old Mac
5. Sheep Ranch
6. Bandon Trails
The entire experience is top-shelf and they do everything right.
I'm happy to answer any questions you all have. Just let me know!
Thanks for sharing!
We currently have the following as our itinerary for next April:
1 - Bandon Trails + Preserve
2 - Old Mac + Bandon Dunes
3 - Pacific Dunes
4 - Sheep Ranch
Ending with Sheep Ranch since I heard that is the easiest walk and best views (also the random dates I picked had some course closures we had to schedule around). Still I am anticipating that making it through all the golf we have scheduled will be a stretch. I'm trying to get my group to start training now.
Questions for you:
How was the weather?
What were the non-golf things you enjoyed or wanted to do if you had time?
Did you fly in/out of Eugene? Any issues there, particularly with your clubs?
Sheep Ranch is an easy walk. Old Mac was the hardest walk. I walk every round of golf I play, and I play at least 27 holes a week, and I wasn't prepared. Definitely use the compression pants and Theragun every night.
We had the best possible weather. It should rain a lot there in April. It poured up until we got there, and then rain was all in the forecast after we left. We teed off into a 10 minute hail then rain storm, and after that there wasn't any precipitation and it hit 50°F every day. I would pack and prepare for wet weather though. Better to have it and not need it.
100% hire a caddie. We used Jay Jordan and he was terrific.
The only non-golf things I did was shop, eat and drink some beers. I wish I had time for a massage, or to walk around the property (trails) or venture into town.
We flew into Portland, direct, and drove down. I also put an AirTag in my bag to keep track of things. We stopped at the Salishan Coastal Lodge for the night to break up the drive and it had great food and a nice warmup course. I had no issues with my clubs, I took the head off my driver, used a Club Glove Stiff Arm and I wrapped everything up in towels and packed it nice and tight.
Awesome and thanks!
Good call on the caddie. Booking that is something I have not done yet. Were there any other caddies in your group that you'd recommend?
We carried and pushed our clubs around so we only needed a single caddie.
man, I wish I could play 27 holes a week! I haven't even played 27 holes this year
I'm pretty fortunate to have the flexibility.
One more follow up. Any recommendations for dining? Did you have any favorite dinner spots? I've heard dinner needs reservations, but did you have any trouble eating breakfast or lunch?
We only made reservations for The Forge. I forget which restaurant serves it, but definitely eat the meatloaf. Lunch and breakfast is really easy to find.
Meat does not belong in loaf form. Thank you for coming to my ted talk
This is a bad take, that meatloaf was heavenly.
Of all the ways to eat meat.... A loaf? It's unnatural.
Nah...it's just a burger without the bun.......
A sausage without a casing
It absolutely is not. You find me a burger that has breadcrumbs and ketchup as key ingredients of the patty itself. Disgusting.
OK. Maybe not exactly like a hamburger, but you get the idea.
Maybe more like a meat version of a crabcake?
which is uncoincidentally the worst way to eat crabs
I can think of a worse way...
live? try me -- i deal with people around here daily who are way crabbier than a literal actual crab
I'm crabby I can't get out to play golf this weekend. And tomorrow afternoon is jamming up as well. Ugh.
On second thought, you really don't want to know what I was thinking
via GIPHY
to be fair, I've never eaten crabs in this manner...and I wouldn't want to
Oh i don't even like crabs- just making the comparison.
I bet you and French would have great culinary discussions.
me 🤝 French
pit beef
Unless you eat meat like a lion (fresh off the bone, raw, with fur and tendons and all) all meat is unnatural
I'd have sheep ranch higher personally, but you cant go wrong. I'll never forget my trip there. Amazing
As already requested, a full recap would be greatly appreciated. Our trip starts on 4/14/24 at Bandon Trails and I cannot wait.
Bandon Trails is probably the toughest course out there.
He aint lyin!
Relevant. Bandon building 6 new courses in Colorado??? https://www.instagram.com/p/CrMoDu3uB8c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
My old Cobra Fly-Z finally kicked the bucket this past weekend, RIP.
Snuck down to Golf Galaxy this evening...proud new owner of a TM Stealth. 8 degrees, HZRDUS 70X extra stiff shaft...cannot wait to get out on the range/course with it. If what the trackman was showing is legit...woooo buddy.
I'm in love.
On the range was love at first sight. Twice on the course...need to figure this bad boy out.
You are obviously not messing around :-0
Swing hard just in case you hit it 🤷♂️
One of our reps at work invited me to a charity golf tournament, but I've never played a course before - just done the range/TopGolf. Anyone have advice on finding a decent left handed set for a n00b that won't break the bank?
You need to look used or one of the direct to consumer brands.
Look on FB marketplace. There are some good preowned online stores but you pay quite a bit more once they get their hands on them and "grade" them. I'll always suggest getting used clubs first, playing for a few years then getting fitted once you're ready to make the commitment.
Shot my career best round this weekend after barely playing for a couple weeks and my course had punched greens. Might be the definition of "I'd rather be lucky than good". 25 putts on those bumpy things!
Everything is greening up and healing up nicely. This last bit of rain should ensure the turf is healthy for a while into mid summer, as long as the supers can manage it right. Hard to believe the bermuda is popping and almost full out when it took until the second week of June last year. Mild winters will do that.
With that being said, I have to remind myself that it's not June yet, so the little mistakes aren't mid-season frustrating ones, but rather the early season still shaking the rust off ones. Still broke 80, but a couple of 3 putts on the back would have been super infuriating if it was June or July. But since it was still April, and my 5th round of the year, I can be happy with the final result. Hit em well everyone and take a day or 2 to let the courses dry out. We got over 4" in some spots between Friday and Sunday.
Finally broke down and upgraded driver, 3 wood, irons, and hybrid. Went from Ping G10 driver, Cobra F speed 3 wood, Cobra King Cobra 4 hybrid, and Cobra FP irons, to a Ping G425 Max driver, Ping G425 3 wood, Ping G425 4 hybrid, and second hand mint condition Mizuno MP-H5 irons (which I got for free from my cousin who used to work at Kinloch). Extended and regripped the irons myself. I've played the irons but haven't hit the others yet. Hopefully this weekend. I'm hoping that having 12-15 year newer technology in the bag will help some.
Anyone had any experience in getting fit for a putter? Looking to do it at golf galaxy but wasnt sure if its worth paying to do or just go hit putters and pick one that feels good.
I was gifted a full bag fitting to Club Champion a couple of years ago, which included the putter.
I enjoyed it but not sure I'd pay the $100, or whatever just the putter costs, to do it.
The machine they use to see what you're doing with your stroke was cool. Based on several factors in there I was recommended to get a mallet (I had a blade and consistently lined up ~1 degree to the right) and then a face-balanced putter based on my stroke path. He started me with a $400 Evnroll, which I thankfully did not like, then he put a double bend TM Spider in my hands and I made 10 in a row from 10ft. I bought the Spider from golf galaxy since I had a gift card to there.
Overall, cool experience and useful to learn about my stroke's preference for face-balanced. But the whole process was like 10 minutes, which makes the price tag seem extra harder to swallow to me.
The one at golf galaxy is only $40, the description on the website seems like they use some technology to help recommend a preferred putter. I have a blade currently but very curious about switching to a mallet for the forgiveness factor. I figured if I was going to drop a couple hundred for a new putter might as well get fit to make sure it works.
I would do it for $40. I now will only but face-balanced putters because of my fitting.
Easy, cheap option to see how your putting is going...buy a putting mirror from Amazon. Can be the $8 plastic one, but it will give you a quick analysis of where your eyes are and how you are set up. Fix that fist, then see what type of arc/stroke you have. Go to Scotty Cameron and research which type of hosel and set up is best for your stroke. Which toe hang and how much, center-shaft or plumbers neck, etc. Then go roll some yourself and see which one you like. Much easier than having someone staring at you, crouched around you, while you're trying to putt. Those results don't typically feedback well.
I bought a putting mirror at the beginning of last season and it helped so much it's not even funny.
My $.02.
Need feels good, sounds good, inspires confidence, and (critically) rolls straight coming off the putter face. If you can't comfortably make the alignment line(s) on the ball go straight end over end, then no matter how good the putter looks and feels, you'll be looking for another putter next year.
I think that head weight, face inserts/feel, alignment lines, etc are an individual preference thing. But it is important to at least have the right length and lie angle to have our eyes over (or close to over) the ball and our arms comfortable in our stance; the putter head balanced to match the arc of our swing (or lack thereof); and the offset/loft to match our hand position.
Do you need to pay for that? PGA Superstore in Jax has an older gentleman on the floor who is exceptional at fitting people (because they don't want the putter to be returned) but I don't know if that is common in other stores.
Don't know if I mentioned it in the old thread, but I finally replaced my old Callaway wedges with the Mizuno S 23's (54/8/D grind and 58/12/D grind) . I'm a nothing special wedge player but life around the green just got noticeably easier. D grind doesn't facilitate the crazy artful shots (that I lack the skill to pull off) but it is way more versatile than S...and both of my wedges are stupid easy out of the sand.
The S 23 puts the sweet spot in the middle of the wedge face instead of toward the heel...and you will likely notice the difference when you deliberately play the clubface either open or closed.
First Member-Guest of the year later this week at Ballyhack. Current handicap has not been adjusted up enough to reflect the effects of a long winter layoff and having our first child last spring. Buddy of mine is coming up from Raleigh. Nothing better than setting that "out of office" reply on Outlook and closing down the laptop for 3 days of golf and transfusions.
Play well, but most of all, enjoy it!!!
I've heard nothing but great things about Ballyhack, definitely on my VA bucket list.
How do you like Dormie Club?
It's top of my list to try to find a way to play!!!!
(We are staying in Roanoke for almost a week around Labor Day...)
Contact me close to labor day and maybe we can work something out! cream06 at VT.edu
Will do!!!
Played it last Friday. It did not disappoint. Probably my favorite course I've ever played.
Happy to host you or vtnerf or anyone on here sometime.
I just became a Dormie network member last year and have only been to Ballyhack and Dormie Club. So far it is top notch in all aspects of lodging, food, service, courses, etc. I'm not exactly sure on the cost/value equation. It is an expensive weekend and there are so many great courses out there that you can enjoy for less. My membership is somewhat unique. Feel free to email me if you want more details. You have my info!
We're hosting the USGA Amateur 4 Ball where I work at Kiawah Island Club in Charleston, SC May 20-24 and we're still looking for some more volunteers. If anyone's interested, reach out to me @ jp(dot)nelson(at)kiawah(dot)com.
Here's some info about the tourney in case anyone is interested. Should be a fun time!
https://championships.usga.org/usamateurfourball/2023/articles/fast-fact...
Had a few guys I know go over to Carnoustie for the Craw's Nest Tassie. HUGE match play tournament, with 384 guys competing for 64 spots in match play. One guy barely qualifies in the 64th spot for the match play, and his reward is to get the 5 time champion of the tournament, who plays out of Carnoustie. Turns out, he's a +5.6 and the #35 amatuer in Scotland and top 1200 in the world. He had 5 birdies in 12 holes from the tips at Carnasty to win in the first round today. At least my golf buddy has a cool story to come home with.
Joined Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston. Kind of pissed it's been there the entire time but apparently the name checks out. Going to start walking since cart fees would pile up. Looking for any push cart recommendations please and thank you!
I played that course a few times 15-20 years ago, as a dear (now departed) friend of mine was a member. Yes, the name of the club is appropriate, as I remember several holes where a somewhat hidden, wandering creek cuts across fairways. Another interesting point, at least back then the pro shop sold everything at cost to members, as the annual dues included a single pro shop fee of around $200.
Each has their pros and cons. Some of that is price...
https://www.independentgolfreviews.com/best-golf-push-carts/
https://www.golfmonthly.com/best-golf-deals/best-golf-push-carts-197384
Have a CaddyTek 4 wheel design. I like because it's lightweight, sturdy and folds up compactly. I have seen the 3 wheel design and would recommend it too.
Thanks to all who responded. Greatly appreciate it!
I have the cheap/basic Caddytek 3 wheel I got off Amazon and it works just fine. I tend to carry my bag for 9 holes and bust out the push cart for 18. If I had any gripe it's I would prefer one with slightly larger wheels as I feel like it would roll/push easier.
It was a gorgeous day yesterday at the beach and was fortunate enough to get 18 in with a fellow Hokie. He works for a golf course design frim, I work in coastal resiliency, and both are firms are designing and permitting changes to about 7 holes at Eagles Landing in west OC. I was trying to keep things together since I've had a stomach bug for a few days, so I didn't have great energy. But, we made it. I've been on the stupid bogey train lately. Not hitting it poorly, just not able to score. I know it will break loose at some point, but I've been blowing the whistle on this train for a bit and it's frustrating. At least the next score I post will kick a 72 out from last summer, so the vanity cap will slowly normalize to a current status of my game.
BTW, he's a scratch, plays at a nice club in MoCo, and routinely plays with the A-team guys. Solid player. And hit his 3 wood past my driver a few times. I'm getting old.
Thats a nice course. Some great holes out there. Good opening stretch
7,8,9,10,17, & 18 are going to get raised. Some spots in the fairway are below elevation 3, which floods in the king tides and heavy storm surges routinely now. Cool project and cool to be a part of it.
Heading to a concert next Sat (June 3rd) at Jiffy Lube in Bristow. Looking to do some old man tailgating before hand (ie - play 18 and consume several transfusions). Considering Bull Run or Stonewall primarily due to proximity. Any local advice / recommendations for a hacker from Richmond?
Haven't played either but have heard good things about both courses. Would say I've heard more positives about stonewall recently.
Both are great. Stonewall would be the easier one to head over to jiffy lube after.
As the weather is turning warmer, my game is starting to take shape. On Sunday I uncharacteristically missed four putts from 5-7 feet, and shot 77 after birdies on 17 & 18. Last night in a 9-hole match in league play, I birdied the first two holes (giving me four in a row, pretty crazy) and ended up with a 1-under 35. I hope my form holds, as my first multi-day Member-Member starts June 9th.
If any TKPers get up to the Cape, let me know.
Well, as expected, the golf gods got me back. I started losing my swing tempo over the weekend and put up some ugly, ugly scores.
My game goes in predictable cycles, always has and probably always will. I play 'normally' for a couple of weeks (81-82), then go on a bit of a tear where I can shoot low for 3-7 days. But, inevitably I will come across a situation where I'm in between clubs, and since I'm swinging well, I take a shorter club, swing just a touch harder and knock it stiff. That slightly harder swing becomes my normal swing. Do that a couple of times within a round or two, and my swing ratchets up even more though it feels normal to me. I'm swinging way too hard and inevitably it breaks down and for a few rounds I can spray more balls than Cruex. Then, it takes me a couple of rounds to get it back, and I have to focus on just dropping the head of the club to my ball. The cycle starts all over again.
If the 'good' cycle hits at the right time, i.e., a tournament weekend, I can so some damage. Hopefully, that happens in about 10 days. I have a few more rounds to work it out, and I'm confident I will get there.
Fortunately, my good cycle hit at the right time, and my partner and I took the maximum points in all five of our 9-hole matches this weekend. Out of 45 holes, we only lost three of them. And, we came out on top on the second hole in the Tournament of Champions shoot-out after my partner hit his shot to about 12 feet and I sank the slippery downhill birdie putt in front of a couple hundred people. Sometimes you just know, and as soon as I hit the putt I knew it was pure and sort of walked it in. It doesn't always go your way, so you need to really relish those times when you're 'in the zone'. A great, great weekend.
I'm feeling it this morning, though. I may have been criminally overserved as a lot of us celebrated at a great outside venue along the water on a beautiful night. Oof...
Play in a Wednesday night team play (when work allows it)...this past Wednesday I went -2 on 9 for the first time ever (and took home a wad of cash, c'mon). Ramping up at the right time (hopefully) as that course's invitational is next weekend. Lfg.
Played the River course for the first time today since McConnell took over. The conditioning was noticeably improved. On the other hand there was no one out there. Curious to see what they do to make that property a positive cash flow operation.
Shot 84 without hitting a single good drive. I can hit 10 perfect drives on the range and then go to the first tee and spray it all over the course.
Played The Old Course at Homestead this past weekend. Best shape I've seen it in a few years. Greens beat the crap outta me. Putt to chip a few times. Great experience overall. Pro shop and bar / restaurant are under reno and the pro shop has been contained to the bottom floor, so 19th hole is up the hill.
I was out there 3 weeks ago. Great course. Oldest continually operated tee box in the US on #1. 17 would be an amazing finishing hole - downhill short par 4 with the resort framed perfectly behind the green. Greens were fast but not unbearable. I played by myself and got in 18 in 2hrs 15min.
I love that you don't play a par 4 until the 6th hole if I'm remembering correctly
They keep it interesting with three 3s, three 4s, and three 5s on each nine. Kind of unique for a par 72 layout.
I do like that about the course.
Returning to the game after a ~ 15 year break. Picked up some Mizuno JPX irons off of Marketplace and went out yesterday with a couple of groups from the hood.
We played Worthington Manor in Urbana MD. Nice course. The good players all commented on how the set up was tough yesterday. Greens were pretty firm. That course has lots of hills and missed shots funnel to bad spots.
I had 1 decent hole with a proper par (GIR and 2 putts). Not bad for the second round in the last 2 years. I used some of dcwilson's advice from his AMA and clubbed up on most of the par 3s.
Worthington is one of the top top courses in MD. They can get the rough long, greens firm, and tuck some pins out there. Always a test.
Welcome back to the game. Picking up some Mizzy's was a great move. Enjoy playing again.
Bulle Rock was phenominal and probably my favorite course in MD. I like it more than congo. Woodmont is a great track too if you can get on. I've played wothington, but that was 15 years ago. if I remember correctly its a donald ross course, so greens are a premium.
Worthington is Ault-Clark, but they also put a premium on green-side scoring.
I've heard the same about Bulle. Congo is just a brut, and after every reno, continues to be that.
One of my buddies used to be assistant Super at Woodmont. Never had a chance to play it, but he always has a fondness of it in his heart. Since he wasn't a member, but knew the "crowd" would end up working in the am then driving to Worthington to play in the afternoon.
Man, I've been on the bogey train lately. Not hitting it poorly, just can't score. The 70's have eluded me for the last handful of rounds and it's frustrating. At least my handicap is normalizing again after a 72 from last season got knocked out. We played this morning and I think it rained on us 7 different times. 13 holes w rain gloves on...
Anyone have a good link for aim point putting? I've watched a few YouTube videos but none go into the details for how much break to play for degree of slope not how far to hold hand based on distance of putt.
Putting has been my Achilles heel for some time and am wanting to try something new.
The way I understand it is it's best to get an in-person training for it. Maybe ask around to see if anyone is doing one coming up. (ask Golf Galaxy or the like, they usually know what's happening in general.)
Or check out the AimPoint website and buy the DVD. I know enough to be dangerous about it, but couldn't help, only confuse.
And if you were to do an individual training (Angela Larkin at Creighton Farms teaches it) you could maybe get some putting lessons along with the green reading.
My simplest advice to anyone struggling with putting is to get a putting mirror (cheap on Amazon, like under $10) and use it to check your eye position and hands. Will help with roll and alignment as well.
Tough day for a couple of Hokies in final US Open qualifying. Mark Lawrence is +11 thru 21 holes and Connor Burgess was Dairy Queen'd.
Trevor Cone is up there is a great spot at the moment....
Trevor is on his last 9. If he keeps it together, he should be going to LA!
3 bogies and a double sandwiched between birdies on the back for a 39 and just outside contention. It's the longest day in golf for a reason.
The PGA LIV merger reminds me of the scene in Entourage where Mark Cuban (LIV) tells the tequila founder (PGA) what if I just bought your little fucking tequila company
I can't make heads or tails of this thing. It sounds like the LIV guys knew they wouldn't win so here's a big bag of cash, and we'll put Greg on the board so he's not a thorn in your side anymore, and you can promote us because we're partners now...
Everyone kept bringing up how LIV would never make any money and they would eventually cut their losses. Well the PGA tour relies heavily on corporate sponsors and after they unveiled the changes with increased purses and minimums for pga tour players, I'm not so sure they didn't run out of money first. I don't think the corporation sponsors were seeing a return on their money so far this year. Plus the Saudis have been pouring money into the West really hard over the past decade, especially in tech, so some of those same corporate sponsors who already have business with the Saudis were probably happy to let the Saudis come in and subsidize the new PGA tour model. Pure speculation on my part. Probably way off the mark. I'm trying to look at the bright side of being able to see Brooks, Cam Smith, DJ, Ancer, Neiman, and Phil again more regularly. But if I am a pga tour player (especially Rory who was marched out to carry the banner all year), I'm pissed.
Completely pissed. They got a fat bag, walked away, didn't have to play all the events and grind to the Tour Championship, and now get to slink back without recourse. Talk about getting away with it. And making all that noise (suing the tour, tweeting out dumb ish, everything) to come back and expect to be welcome? It's nuts.
I see it as the Saudis knowing they couldn't win, so they threw money at the problem. And Jay acquiesced. They have the money....there was a stupid surplus over the years in 9 figures allegedly. I just don't get it.
This was essentially the goal all along. They couldn't buy in the first time around so they made their own league to try to force a merger similar (not the same) as the ABA/NBA and AFL/NFL back in the day. LIV wasn't going anywhere. They had names but the product sucked. The litigation was gonna get messy and no one wants to deal with that so the Saudis just kept throwing cash on the table until the PGA said yes. And the PGA absolutely fucked the players over big time.
ALLLLLLLLL of this. I have no idea what it means for the product on the grass now, but I know several PGA guys are pissed.
There is some speculation that the litigation was not going to go the PGA tour's way so they took the money and caved.
Not sure which way it was headed, but the PGA didn't want to spend millions and millions to have it drag out. And Norman and PIF knew that. I feel like that was their play all along...make as much noise and cause as much pain as possible until they cave. They got their way.
I think its more they didn't want certain details about how the PGA does business internally to come out than it was they were gonna lose to LIV. Sometimes in these types of situations, the details that become public are more damaging long term than what the actual suit is about. And as vtnerf mentioned, this was gonna be in the courts for quite awhile. They would have to spend millions in fees and knowing some of those details might come out. When the Saudis are on the other side just throwing money on the table, they caved. The price got so high that what other "nobility" or for the cause beliefs they had went out the window
LIV/PIF also didnt want details coming out -- they were arguing in US court that PIF had sovereign immunity or whatever as an arm of the Saudi government at the same time they were certifying in the UK that PIF was totally independent of the Saudi government in order to secure the Newcastle purchase
I respect your opinion 100%. WADR nobody on earth sets appointment television to Neiman and Ancer. zero people. The others I'll give you.
Oh for sure. I'm a golf junkie though and those guys would often make some of the no name tournaments more interesting on a Sunday.
I haven't watched one second of LIV...not an exaggeration
Same.
Guess this lifts the lid on players having very little control of the PGA Tour as a whole. One thing that's got to be an extra kick in the ass is that four golfers sit on the PGA Tour board so if those guys didn't pass it on before this dropped that probably gets ugly for them.
I know the PGA Tour is set up as a non-profit (just like Bowl Games in college football) so curious if the other two parts here are also non-profits or if this now becomes some hybrid of profit/non-profit.
They could have been bound by an NDA which is not uncommon in there type of merger type situations.
You could tell that was the case watching Monahan and Al-Rumayyan on CNBC, honestly looked like Monahan was being held hostage. I dont understand the rush to announce this without telling the Tour first.
Saudi blood money gets whatever it wants
If I stood by Jay and fought for the PGA (and DP) I am red hot right now. All of it.
I am also wondering if there were things that the PGA Tour did not want to come out in discovery as well. Everyone is saying the Saudis just threw down a bunch of money but something about this feels odd to me considering such an abrupt about face. Was there info that could come out that would jeopardize the tours status as a non-profit? Are there things that would have come out that would have pissed of the players and caused more of them to defect? I am no fan of Phil Mickelson but maybe there is something to the things he was saying about the tours business practices.
I also do wonder what ends up happening to the Golf Channel and if Brandel Chamblee will end up having a broadcasting career in golf.
Just watched the CNBC sit down with Jay and Yasir...Jay comes off like you'd expect him to. And he says "grow the game" like 50 times in 18 minutes. Oh, and he's the CEO of the new company they are forming.....
There's not really mention of the players. But Jay did say he noticed the team format and how that could grow the game all over the world...
I hate the team format the way LIV implemented it. In most team sports, including Ryder Cup, the players skills and performance support and compliment each other on the field/court. LIV's team concept is 4 guys wearing the same colored shirts, not even playing in the same group. They are completely independent.
So it sounds like the Saudis just executed a hostile takeover of the PGA
Idk if anyone else here follows the No Laying Up crew on youtube or podcasts, but they're about to have a FIELD DAY with this news.
They're pretty much the only content I follow other than listening to Chasing Scratch while I drive.
Hack it out is another good golf podcast. Combination of a teaching pro, tour pro and Arccos stat guy. They also did a pod yesterday on the news - it wasn't earth shattering. But their regular stuff is quite good and they have excellent chemistry.
IDK if you're an NLU listener but its essentially one really good amateur golfer, two good amateur golfers, two pretty decent amateur golfers, and one golf writer who cover the PGA and LPGA very well. They all bring a very comedic spin and their own unique personality to their content and they all provide a lot of deep cut references to old shows, movies, pop culture, etc. They're amazing.
No Laying Up has some of the best golf content on youtube. Strapped is pure enjoyment, tourist sauce will make you want to book a golf trip immediately, and the cinematography/story telling (especially the week in the life of Stanford Women's Golf) is the best.
Seeing them do the Tourist Sauce on a few places I've been lucky enough to visit has been awesome. Top notch stuff, and they "play" something different each day.
I've been watching the Bandon Tourist Sauce episodes on repeat lately. The latest season in Scandinavia was incredible. Some of the best golf content I've ever seen.
This is honesty very worrying for every other sports league. The Saudi PIF is at something like $650B. They made it clear with LIV that attracting fans or sponsors was not the end goal. They didn't even bother to find an effective distribution channel to watch LIV golf, and yet the check was big enough to in effect take over golf. The PGA Tour was burying LIV in terms of rating, sponsors, everything. And they caved, because of $$$$.
What happens when they turn their sights to the NBA or NFL? It's sounds absurd, but they just did it as a test run. It's about control and power, and polishing their image in regards to human rights violations. And I fear the rest of the leagues are greedy enough to let em
I apologize if this tiptoes to the board guidelines, but our eyes and ears all work here and it's clear what the goal is from a sports context
And if the new entity (it's not really a merger) gets past the antitrust issues in the US, there's not much stopping them from dropping a big bag on any one or all of the leagues to take over. It's not necessarily greed, but just sooooooooooooo much money that you cannot say no.
gets past the antitrust issues in the US
It will be very interesting to watch the OPEC decisions in the coming months.
I mean, there were how many lawsuits involving both entities? And now they want to team up for a new company? All sorts of complications there. Not to mention there were rumblings that the PGA Tour was close to being considered a monopoly...oof.
"hey DOJ stop them from harming our start up because they are a monopoly" also "We have decided to join forces and DOJ stop investigating because we agree we aren't a monopoly"
As has been said in many places we are so early on this that there is a good shot it wont be exactly as presented to date:
- details have to be hashed
- DOJ wont just stop their investigation because other suits are dropped
- still need to take the finalized proposal to the players for a vote
The NY Yankees have swooshes on their jerseys. They will soon have other ad patches. So will the Dallas Cowboys. The Celtics and Lakers have ad patches. The red sox have ad patches. This is childs play greed money these teams took compared to what PIF will offer. You are fucking right Jerry Jones will paint a Burqa at midfield for the right price. No question in my mind
They're absolutely using their absurd wealth garnished by blood money to sportswash their human rights violations and bankrolling of major terrorist organizations. This whole thing reeks and its become a very worrying trend globally that we are all such whores to their cash despite what they've done to us.
For reference, 15 of the 19 9-11 hijackers were Saudis
Jay Monohan removed all tournaments from Trump courses - because trump is mean and tweets stupid things- but will partner- directly - KEY distinction people lose sight of- with a kingdom where christianity, tourism, and homosexuality is illegal today. You can't make it up. Doral is too offensive, but a terrorist regime is not. Un fucking real this whole thing.
Since I can't play tomorrow, and have a scramble on Monday, headed out for an afternoon round today. Beer better be cold after this week!!!! Hit em well everyone, and be thankful the smoke has vacated the area.
Got back on the course Wed after 2 month layoff due to hand injury...played 10 holes before the sky opened up.
Had some good holes and actually improved distance thru the bag ("stronger" but very low tension left hand to protect the injury.). However, little consistency with the driver. Not sure what kind of bad juju happens on that short trek from the range to the first tee.
Played a gig yesterday at the home of, I find out afterward, the co-founder of Top Speed Golf (the Clay Ballard instructional videos). Super nice folks and looking forward to playing (music) there again.
Clay is one of the best instructors I've watched on YouTube. That's pretty cool
Just got back from a golf weekend in Lexington. Played the UK Big Blue course on Thursday. Great layout and in good condition considering how dry it's been. Played Kearney Hills Golf Links on Friday. They are prepping for the KY State AM next week and restricted the course to cart path only. Great layout and conditions were good except the bunkers were a bit water logged due to all the watering. Played Cherry Blossom in Georgetown on Saturday. Another great layout and good conditions.
Highlights of the weekend were nearly acing the second hole at Cherry Blossom and carding an 89 there (tied for best round of the year.).
If you're in Lexington and a bourbon fan, go to OBC in Chevy Chase. 600 bourbons/ryes and a candied bacon appetizer which is spectacular. The rest of the menu was great as well. We went there Thursday night and then went back Saturday.
Well, the scramble the other day was eventful. We got poured on 4 different times, but at least no electricity. We birdied the hardest holes on the front and back. Still got smoked by 6 shots (even with the rain...we shot 60 last year to win, two teams posted 56 this year in rain and wind!). And, had my knee pop on me on the 8th hole. (Still used my drive though!) Assume due to age and wear-n-tear that my meniscus sorta popped for a second, which caused bone on bone contact, and immediate pain and loss of use for a minute. Had an ortho apt this morning (with a guy that's in our normal group) and he thinks he can still get me right for the Scotland trip in less than 2 months. Knee brace and ibuprofen for the interim, while trying to schedule an MRI.
After riding for a bit and just being a lump in the cart, it started to not be SO painful, and they needed me on an 85 yard shot into a par 5. I limped up there Kirk Gibson style and hit it to 4' for the bird. At least that was something.
Update, after xrays, it's inconclusive of the issue. He seems to think it was the meniscus either partially tearing or just moving out the way. Waiting on insurance authorization for an MRI now. If it was an 8 on the pain/oh crap scale Monday, it's prob a 3 today. The compression sleeve is helping, and I can bend it straight thru. But any flew or twist sets off knives in the knee area. No golf this weekend, so I'll be binging on US Open coverage.
What has been everyone's experiences at PGA Superstore? They recently opened up near my house and the Golf Galaxy in the same shopping center closed as a result probably 2 months ago. I went in yesterday to get fit for a hybrid and had an absolutely dynamite experience. I went in with my 5i and 3W to find the gap for a hybrid and got some great insight, didn't feel pressured to buy a club if I didn't like any, didn't get pushed towards the highest price point, and ended up walking out with the one that was great for me - Callaway Rogue St Max.
I've only heard horror stories about PGA superstores so I was very pleasantly surprised. PLUS - the elderly man that checked me out at the front was a former Hokie class of '72!
They vary by location, just like other service industry franchises. If the manager is on the ball, you'll prob get good service and have a good experience. But sometimes, it's just meh. Since you had a good experience, drop a good review on the FB page or something to let others know so they'll support it and keep it open.
I submitted a review on Google for them and mentioned the dudes by name. Yeah I get anything will vary by location, but i've heard overwhelming blanket feedback about PGA SS. Glad to know I may have a good one nearby.
Very good experience at the Town Center location in Jax
I've had nothing but good experiences at the PGA Superstore in Fairfax, VA since it has opened.
Anyone use a free GPS app for iPhone/watch that they like? Looks like 18 Birdies is a good one. Swing U looks good too, although some complaints about new update.
I have used The Grint, which I think the GPS part is free (and scorecard). It worked just fine.
I also have been using the grint for years and it has worked great. The free version has everything I need but the pro subscription adds green heat maps and can track your betting games. One thing I like about it is you can go in and make notes for holes before you play a course and can access them while playing.
I use TAG Heuer golf which was Fun Golf that they bought. No high pressure watch or ads, 3D, Sat, 2D. Calculates approx HC. Can share scorecards. The $ is if you want distance on the watch. I've found the GPS to be within a yard of anyone with a range finder and with less error.
If anyone has a better one for $0 I'd jump on it.
After a few weeks with the bum knee, have a tee time Saturday...trying to get ready for the member guest next weekend. Hoping I can still get over to my left side without killing myself. Got a bigger brace with side supports which feels a lot better and provides a lot more confidence than just the sleeve. (MRI on Monday, then a course of action to fix it after I get back from Scotland!)
Good luck with your M-G! Our club's big summer one is 7/12-7/15.
Really, really enjoyed your AMA.
got me thinking about what I want to try and get out of golf at my age (just turned 68)...what is realistic and how do I get there. I don't think I can be a scratch golfer but I think low single digits is achievable...from the senior tees. I can play from further back, but I think it will be more fun to score better and use all of the clubs. I don't want to have to swing at 100% just to get around the green; I want to have enough head room to have a strategy and shoot at a few pins. Golf should be fun, not work.
So with my fingers now fairly recovered from some injuries a couple months ago, I hit the range yesterday and again this a.m. (I'm playing Thursday). And as a lifelong straight-to-fade player; I hit nothing but draws with everything except the driver. I get more consistent contact swinging inside out and I'm at least a half club longer. I just have to get mentally comfortable and confident with it. With the driver, I want to keep my baby fade (a "fairway finder" like they say on TV) but be able to hit a draw when there is enough room to overcook it a little left; and there is an advantage in trying...maybe 2-3 times a round?
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to do that.
I've been at this game for over 40 years, and haven't reached 50 years old...yet... I just want to have fun. Yeah, it's a little more than just an escape, but many times the wandering around the course for several hours just clears the head. But don't worry, I can get competitive when I need to, but most rounds are just feeling it out and having a good time. I don't want to spend all that money and effort to be frustrated. Don't know if you are there yet, but I've gone to full Winn LT (less taper) midsize grips. I was straight cords FOREVER!!!!! But as I'm aging and arthritis is setting in, the Winns have softened up the blow so to speak and allowed me to continue on. No more tennis elbow or sore wrists. (Also tweaked my wrist a few years ago playing keeper in men's league...something I had never done in the previous 45 years of my life. That'll teach me.)
Anyway, glad to see there are people enjoying the game and still challenging themselves. Consistency...that's the name of the game. And I'll keep chasing it for a long long time.
I'll see if I can get some pics of my home office/man cave posted sooner or later. Might be after the Scotland trip as I KNOW there will be some additions.
My head clearing is when I'm out fishing by myself. Not the safest thing to do but I love it.
I tried the Winn grip and it felt a little too "squeezy" for me. I've gone to Plus 4's in the last year and find them very comfortable.
Wife could be easily be talked into an Ireland/Scotland trip...it would probably be her idea...but I have this lingering fear that I'd get there and it would be too cold. We live in FL for a reason, I need it to be 60 degrees F or better or the fingers don't work.
Have a wonderful trip; looking forward to the report.
Any Roanoke area golfers or folks willing to travel in, RADAR willing be hosting it's annual fundraiser captains choice event Wednesday September 20th at Hunting Hills CC. See our Facebook page for updates/contact information (https://facebook.com/radartransit.org).
Okay folks, need some advice. I've played a few times, really enjoy it but not enough to go crazy however I need a driver and a hybrid or two to replace my wooden ones. Any beginner or entry level drivers or used club shops in Richmond worth a look?
Golf Galaxy has a used rack that usually has decent options but they rarely have the $10 Taylormade r580's that they used to. Not sure any of their used clubs are even under $100 these days. If you can't find anything there, Sports Gear in Midlothian, near Uptown Alley, has a ton of cheap used clubs that will be an upgrade on wooden clubs at least.
If you want something more decent but affordable, search Ebay or the Calloway pre-owned site. Look slike you can get a Callaway xHot driver for under $60. I wouldn't worry about condition at this point. Condition ratings refer to cosmetics not performance.
Also would recommend giving globalgolf.com a look they have a ton of used clubs and regularly do promotions to get 15-20% off. Ive purchased many clubs that are 2-3 years old and listed as "very good condition" that look almost brand new. I purchased a cobra f9 3hybrid a few years ago and it was maybe $80-85
Take a quick look at FB marketplace. Lots of garage cleaning going on throughout the year and you can prob grab something newer for you at a good price.
Have any of y'all used those spike kits to make your own golf shoes?
I need some new ones, and because I'm 10 feet tall and strong as a ox, finding new ones in size 15 kind of sucks.
I have not but Puma Ignites old versions are on sale for like $70 on TheGolfWarehouse and IMO are the best deal in golf shoes right now. They only run to size 14 but they run pretty damn big.
The newer Ignites are also onsale but for $110 and do run to a 15.
Couple questions from a newb/returning after ~20 year pause. Since they've tweaked the handicap calculations and I don't want to slow any of my buddies down:
How are we supposed to record my DNF holes?
What are the free apps out there now for newbs to track handicaps?
I believe the Grint is free, and you can put in hole by hole scores and it will adjust. Max score is net double bogey, adjusted.
finally got back out; interesting day committing to play from the seniors.
it was a narrow course and just as easy to get in trouble hitting a driver; in the trees is in the trees.
but it was a lot of fun to hit mid and short irons at the greens on quite a few holes; and to be able to legitimately think about how to play the hole instead of wondering, "how the hell am I going to get there in regulation on this one". and knowing you aren't going to get just a rare chance at a makable birdie. it really takes the pressure off the putting
gonna keep this up for awhile
Hey everybody- VTnerf, Mas Scott, and I will be playing at Heritage Shores in Bridgeville, DE on Monday 7/24 at 10 or 11 am for the second annual TKP NJ/DE golf gathering! Nerf has possibly 2 more guys who will join us. Are there any of you in the DE/MD/NOVA/NJ/PA area who would be interested in joining us to try to get to 8 people?
*****Time update*******
Wednesday July 26 at 1:20pm. We have room for 1 more!!!!! (around $45 too...) at Heritage Shores in Bridgeville, just off Rt 13 (north-south) and 404 (east-west).
Well...unfortunately MasScott couldn't make it at the last minute, but me and Nerf got out and had a really nice, albeit hot round today!
*edit* fixed picture link-
Fun day, albeit a little hot on the back nine with little cloud cover and zero trees to hide under. Had a fun time, played decently well, good tune up for next week, and I know Hokietopher will be back after making a fantastic par on the last hole on the rectangle green!
I'm also looking for anyone interested from the PA/NY/NJ area-I'm running a 2 day outing at The Inn and Golf course at Shawnee on Delaware, PA on Oct 13-14.- 3 nine hole courses on an island in the Delaware River at the Delaware water gap where NJ, NY, And PA meet. Historic 1890's inn- overnight stay, 54 holes Friday and 18 saturday.
Trevor Cone T1 at the Barbasol right now. Would be huge for Trevor to get a good finish this weekend.
He's up by 1 stroke going into Sunday.
he'll beat himself up a bit, but T3 isn't terrible
Definitely a great paycheck and good experience.
Didn't get a chance to see it, but looks like it he launched it long left on 17 that led to a double...ouch.
16
still had a chance to make putts at 17 and 18, either would have put him in the playoff.
today I had my best round since I started playing again a couple years ago...+8 (79)...from the general/senior combo tees. gettin' there; absolutely loving the HMPs
Mizuno for the win!
I know the putter market is oversaturated (and if you are a good putter, why change?), but their putters should get more attention than they do. I'd put the Tour Van SNSR grips on them standard...but that's just me. Forged/milled/weight kit included...what's not to like?
2021 grad Sarah Spicer just won the Maryland Woman's Am.
She plays out of Argyle and they have an amazing junior and under-30 golf membership. (That's the home of Denny McCarthy...his brother is the president of the club.)
Finally got a lesson in. Spent my whole life slicing the ball, trained myself out of the slice and into a hook. Took the guy all of 10 minutes to fix my hook and have me consistently hitting a small draw. He was Mr Miyagi of golf, had me warm up with some wedge shots while he was setting up his camera back turned to me. My first shot was horrible, without turning around he just spits out "shallow top, there's a ball mark 3" in in front and just to the right of where that ball started." which was mind blowing to me. Fixed my address and weight transfer and I could suddenly hit the ball straight.
If you're in the HHI/Bluffton/Savannah area he's worth a visit. https://rodthompsongolf.com/
T minus 1 month until I fly our to Nebraska for a 3 day scramble
don't know how tall he is but he's close to my age bracket...would be fun to spend some time with him ("oh, if he can do it, I should be able to do it"!)
didn't watch all of them but several of his videos seem more about where the club needs to be rather than "magic moves"...which I think is a plus. I can only handle one swing thought while I'm moving so everything else has to be either automatic or dealt with prior to the swing
Yeah he's very much plane focused and at 77 his golf flexibility was much better than mine and I'm 30.
Went to the range first time since my lesson swing feels the exact same but the ball goes pretty much where I want it to now. Be curious to see how my handicap looks in a few rounds
"...the ball goes pretty much where I want it to..."
well, it should look pretty good!
I presume there was a lot of interest in Harman in your area the last few days.
Haven't posted here much lately, but I've been playing a lot. Just shot a season best 82 on Sunday. Handicap Index has dropped from 16.6 at the beginning of the year (briefly rising to 17.2) down to 13.5. I am now shooting as many rounds in the 80's as 90's (home course is rated just under 72 and slope 139).
This is by far the best stretch of golf I've ever played (playing for over 40 years). Now I am sure it's all going to hell since I posted here.
Thats a tough course.
You do what ur saying at rhis slope ur playing well.
Keep it up.
My guest (a Hokie Dad) and I were able to come from behind on the last day to win our flight in my club's 4-Day MG last week. We couldn't get it done in the Tournament of Champions shoot-out, but all in all, a great few days with a fellow Hokie!
Edit: I'm on the left. The skinny one, who we've named "Pipe Cleaner", is the Hokie Dad on the right.
i turned the link into the embedded image for ya -- you did the hard part in getting the image uploaded to imgur and pulling the correct link to paste here. to get that link into an embedded image, click on the little square with the sun and mountains (at the top-left of the comment box field where you type your comments) and then paste that link in the URL field
Way to represent VT in New England! Nice work!
I'm considering a New England run next year. I will let you know.
Please do! There are something like 36 golf courses on the Cape alone, and would love to host you at my club.
Just got news that we will be playing the Old Course this Friday at dark time, walking up the 18th at sunset.
PICS!!!
I've set up a Google drive folder for everyone to drop pics, so they won't be just mine. I can tell you that the weather has been stupid amazing so far, maybe 7 minutes of light showers total. Played the New, Old, Dumbarnie, and Kingsbarns w Carnoustie tomorrow. Pics and write up will be forthcoming, promise
I will toss this morsel out there...of all of them Carnoustie was my very very favorite.
Psyched to hear that. I was in the UK on a family, not golf, trip in 2016 and Carnoustie is the only course we managed to play. Loved it but had nothing to compare it to.
Played spark for the first time. I'm not good at golf and have never played regularly so that's mainly to fix the second aspect. Good experience but I shot a 57... played the same course two days later and shot two a 48 on the front and back. At least my spark handicap on 9 is nearly my ghin handicap now.
Signed up to play 18 in a scramble, l haven't swung the sticks in 4 years, what should I do first, play 9? hit the range? drink a 6 pack?
Go in the backyard with a wedge and try to hit nice easy 20 yard shots focusing on just making good contact
you forgot the plywood over the windows step in that plan
Or maybe...hear me out here...maybe hit away from the house?
All of the above, but in this order: hit the range, drink a 6-pack, play 9-18 while drinking a 6-pack, play in the scramble while drinking a 6-pack.
Have fun, and welcome back to the game!
pitch and putt
if you have time, hit a few 7 irons and a 3 wood
doubt if anyone would be counting on you outdriving everyone or knocking down pins
Volunteer to putt first during the scramble. Glad you are back in the game!
I would say work green to tee. Find a practice green, practice chipping and putting. Hit the range to swing the clubs, then play a 18 holes (perhaps two 9-hole rounds). More than anything, relax and stay loose. No one is going to care how you play but you.
Thanks for the tips, sounds like the old adage drive for show, putt for dough.
I along with some other former MVs are hitting up Sunset Beach next weekend for a golf trip. Sea Trail Resort, Oyster Bay, and Carolina National are all on the docket. Has anyone golfed any of these courses before? I am still on a mission to break 100 but I want to be realistic about it if a course is about to mop the floor with me lol.
5 Championship rounds played, another extra 9, 99 holes total.
2 lost balls.
1 hole with rain.
Over 57 miles walked.
Unbeatable memories.
Still sorting through all the pics. I set up a google drive shared folder that everyone can upload to and grab pics so we acted as a hive mind for that purpose. There's over 1600 pics/vids in there.
I'll work on a write up of the trip as well. It was surreal, lots of stories, laughs, memories, and swag that it will be remembered forever.
New: 79
Old: 79 (bogeyed 18 in the dark!)
Dumbarnie: 84 (lost first ball of the trip on the 18th tee shot...)
Kingsbarns: 82
Carnoustie: 76
My cap went down from 6.8 to 6.5 on the trip.
Awesome playing!
Well done brother. Those courses are not a joke. Awesome playing.
this is all really impressive, but I think what I'm most impressed by is only one lost ball on 99 holes. That's wild to me. I probably average one lost ball per 6 holes played.
I tried to listen to the caddies and had a bit of luck. There really isn't much trouble other than gorse bushes over there. I had to take a penalty on the New because I was in one but never lost the ball.
Glad you had a great time Nerf! Definitely jealous.
It was surreal. The weather, the company, the stories, the golf. All of it.
Few other highlights...
Watching a 72 year old 13 cap shoot 73 at Dumbarnie with a near ace.
Watching my 2 buddies that are brothers play the Old with their dad who is 76 and get a pic on the bridge together.
Talking about footy with fans that are more in it than we'd ever imagine. Celtic/Rangers divide is REAL!
The amount of sticks around. Several caddies were plus caps, and not like +.02. I'm talking +4. The one was British Am winner a few years ago and PLAYED in the Masters last year. Another in the Open at Muirfield when Phil won.
Nice. Sounds like an awesome trip.
Well, luggage finally arrived yesterday. All in tact thankfully.
But also between Thursday and yesterday found out that I brought covid home with me...ugh.
I'll work on write-ups and pics soon.
That's an epic trip. Looking forward to the photos.
So after round report, I only slammed one club into the ground despite not putting a single tee shot into play. I topped some, I hooked some, I sliced some, but didn't hit any houses. Lightened the bag with all the balls I lost, haha. Coach Pry made a surprise appearance to motivate and offer his support for the fundraiser. All in all, it could have been worse, scramble team went 5 under, and I got the sunburn to prove it was a good day.
Played my first round at a real course in the last 10 years (Hope Valley in Durham NC) and only had to use the "maximum of triple bogie" rule like 9 times lol.
Reminder to stay cool as I ended up in the ER with the worst migraine I have ever had from squinting into the sun for 5 hours (even with sunglasses)
Yikes! But also, if you're around Durham and wanna hit the links with me I'm in Hillsborough and would love to get out and whack some golf balls. HMU
Hope Valley is an awesome golf course. I live right down the road and get to frequent it with a buddy.
sounds like you need a visor.
I played in another 2-day Member-Member this past weekend, but didn't play great and my partner and I did not do a good job of "dinging and donging", so we came in the middle of the pack in our flight. Oh well, can't win 'em all. There is one more formal "Major" at our club in late September, and a couple more fun tournaments still yet to go.
Golf Digest article on our recent remodel
https://www.golfdigest.com/story/st-johns-public-golf-florida-st-augustine
Nice. Sounds like a good result from Erik.
took me awhile to warm up to it but I'm really starting to like it.
right now fairways and greens are really firm so you can't really shoot at the greens with more than a 7 or 8 iron...and expect to hold it there. there are almost no pitch marks on the putting surfaces even after 9 months of pretty heavy use...i've never been over the back of so many greens in my life. it should play a little softer in 2 or 3 years and I can see them mowing the approaches a bit different if that happens.
but my point is, it hasn't been easy to figure out how to play the holes. and when you miss, you get some really bad angles for pitches and chips around the greens. if you are up against the front wall in the traps, you are going out the side; but when you do have room, a good sand player will have a lot of fun. finally, as tight as its cut, you also get a lot of opportunity for "Texas wedges"
for a municipal course, this one is kind of a treat. and if nothing else, they nailed the drainage; something few courses in our area can lay claim to.
Drainage is big, and something Palmer design excels in. Hopefully it will.soften up over winter w a high water table feeding the roots a couple of seasons. Right now they are tight, which means they are healthy and taking well. It is an adjustment and breaknfrom the norm. Sometimes it can be fun to play a little differently, sometimes it's just frustrating.
Playing in a pre wedding event down in your area at Slammer & Squire in November. Looked at the course on google maps and ooh boy is that a lot of water (though I know that's the norm for FL). Was surprised to see the slope/rating was only 72.8/132 from the 6900+ tees. What sort of course am I getting myself into?
I've not played S/S (though I should); I have watched a senior tournament there and walked quite a bit of it.
[I do think someone on the board played there last year]
If you want to enjoy yourself (and keep up pace of play), they advise to play it from the yardage that best fits your game. And the newer courses have enough pin positions to make it as tough or as easy as they want. It is always in immaculate condition and you should have a good time. Nov is usually a great month to be here
Re: water, pine flatwoods (the landscape supporting pine (slash pine) plantations where after about 1975 they could still buy enough land to have golf courses) are low and wet. Remember most of the major environmental statutes came along around 1970+/-. Subsequent State rules in FL required projects that filled low areas to have retention ponds to replace them in order to slow runoff into the rivers/creeks/estuaries (give the volatiles a chance to do their thing). By 1980, builders/designers were starting to use them as amenities, or as in the case with golf courses... hazards. The very old courses here are high and dry. The new ones are low and wet. Some bring the water into play quite a bit. And some do not.
Thanks for all the info! I didn't know that split about new/old courses being wet/dry. Pretty interesting but I guess makes sense that new regulations would have a major impact on courses. I'm all for immaculate conditions and good time of year though. Can't wait to play this one and hopefully I can crack 80 if the weather in SE PA cooperates in the weeks leading up to mid-November
For those that come to Jax, the World Golf Village courses and (for those that want to do what it takes to play it) the TPC are the well known draws to the area. It's quite pricey but the venue that doesn't get enough ink is the Ocean Course at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club (https://www.pontevedra.com/things-to-do/golf/ocean-course). It was scheduled to host the 1943 Ryder Cup that was cancelled during WWII. I have played that one and it is wonderful.
Just upgraded my irons first time in 15 years. From Taylor Made Tour Burners to Mizuno Hot Metal Pros. Holy difference Batman. Never felt a sweet spot like that. Also grabbed a Ping 3W which tells me golf just got a lot more expensive for me.
+++ on the HMP's
Mizuno for the win.
Wife booked a weekend at Smith Mountain Lake which meant I got to tag along with some Hokie folks at Blue Hills in Roanoke. 2nd complete round of the season. That Noodle stayed with me the whole round (a first for 0 lost balls). And I broke 100 for the first time.
got my mojo back (albeit from the senior tees); +3 on the front, level par on the back for a 74 (par 71). best round since I started playing again
13 pars, 1 birdie, 4 bogeys
Nice round.
thanks!
+5 yesterday, including 3 double bogeys, lol. this is fun!
I'm really trying to enjoy spark golf and just playing more regularly but there's something about playing after a work day or something that makes me go from bad golfer to "holy shit why are you even here" level of bad. I've shot 58, 61, 55 (those are 9 hole scores, take the Hovland i did it faster and had more circles on my scorecard.) and in-between my weekend rounds shot nothing north of 50. I don't understand why I can't play in this league but I'm carrying a 18 Spark handicap on 9 holes with a 19.2 ghin which is far from good but holy shit my 9 hole handicap is the same as my 18.
HAVING to play after work is way different than wanting to play after work. It's become a thing you have to do instead of a thing for a hobby. It does take time to get there...but you have to just try to remove the brain and enjoy.
I think you need to figure out the right warm up routine to disengage from work before you tee off. Whether that's some range time, putting green time or bar time. You also need to make sure your drive from work to the course isn't stressing you out either.
I struggled with this a few years ago after I got transferred across town and my drive to the course went from 15 minutes to an hour. I struggled to play well then.
yeah my half hour drive cussing at everyone rushing to make the tee time doesn't help. I've snowmanned par 5 1 every week. I've played the course once on the weekend and birdied it. It's 100% the transition that kills me but I have 0 time between work to the tee to do anything.
listen to some relatively slow, steady tempo (4/4) music between work and the course, definitely under 90 BPM. Just nothing fast, syncopated, or adrenaline producing. Get your mind off work, let the music set your internal tempo. Sing along if it helps purge the work crap.
I play much better when I'm focused. If I'm distracted by anything else, pleasant or unpleasant, then old bad habits quickly find their way in to my swing.
Echoing the above, I'd say warm up if possible on the range just enough to be loose and make good contact a couple of times with your favorite iron; maybe hit a 3/4 speed drive down the middle; get those good feelings ingrained. It will remind you why you are there and help purge the mental distractions.
Okay back on Fall league playing with one of my buds who lives in my neighborhood. Rotating driving and just generally less stress have put a couple 48s up... still not great but much more in my range of expected scores. Probably gonna help us win the fall league seeing that it's a 48/30 thanks to my awful shooting this summer.
Still can't get off the tee consistently. I've just used my 5i for everything until I fix my 3w and drive
Extremely disappointed with the captains picks for the Ryder Cup. Lucas should be there. And Cam has played well enough to make it... Oh well, feels like the Euros have their ish together this year and it could be a waxing. We need to watch out for the International team in the Presidents Cup next year. Im, Kim, Matsuyama, Conners, Lee, Hadwin, Fox...just for starters.
I could make a case for Keegan, sure. He loves the format. And yes JT is playing like dog shit. But unless the team embraces it-we will lose if we had Tiger and Jack in their prime. So I'm going to trust Zack here - that he is going for the team dynamic that Azinger so brilliantly introduced. Having said that- keep in mind- no sergio, westwood, poulter for europe this time. I think the US does enough to retain the cup if the best players get points when they should.
Saying no Sergio, Westwood, and Poulter is like saying no Phil for the US team. They are past their prime, and while they were solid 10 years ago, not sure they make an impact on this Euro squad at all. They are deep. There 3 guys on the Euro team that have won on this course and 2 that have finished 2nd there. I don't see the US getting over 10 points of the 26.
Wow 16-10 would be one of the all time blow outs. I don't see it. Although I will never put it past the US to play like crap over there.
Agreed, not trying to wish it on them, but it wouldn't shock me in the least.
Ehh I think it's likely a tie or one point win for either side. Euros are definitely in a better spot than anyone imagined after the last cup but Rory is injured and Rahm has had a disappointing 2nd half of the season. I think the bottom half of the euro side is their undoing.
Just realized it's 28 points up for grabs, so I'll revise the 10 to 11.5.
This aged perfectly.
Made some money on the 16.5-11.5 bet I placed...
I subscribed to The Golfer's Journal a few weeks ago to play in one of their events. It's a really great resource. I'm starting to get into the Index Experiment. If anyone is thinking about joining or wants more information let me know. Also, if you check it out and decide to join, I have a referral link that gets me 3 brand spanking new PV1s: https://www.golfersjournal.com/referral/c180399274. 😃
Love it and have been a long time subscriber. The $25 off at linksoul is nice too. Their tee shirts are soft and comfy.
And if you need a partner for one of their events, drop me line sometime.
I actually got into this one via a buddy. Have you played in any of their events before?
Haven't. Busy and hard to get someone to commit to travel for a tournament. All the post-tournament posts make them look amazing though.
Played Pendleton GC in Caroline County near Ladysmith on Saturday. The course is in excellent condition and the weather was stunningly beautiful. The only downside was the incessant sound of nail guns as Ryan Homes continues to turn the forests around the course into cookie-cutter suburban streets.
could be spending a bit of time next spring in the winston-salem area. any recommendations for public courses?
Forest Oaks, Maple Chase, Oak Valley, Bryan Park
If you can meet an Old Town member you won't regret it.
thanks!
Tanglewood Park in Clemmons is public. It held the 1974 PGA Championship won by Lee Trevino. There are two 18 hole courses. Clubhouse is quite the example of 1960's architecture, think Cowgill Hall. An old Hokie golf teamer, Steve Forest, ran it in the 1970's.
HokieCFA was an incredible host at Ballyhack. Just a really awesome design with Bandon vibes. My favorite thing about it was the "Goat Track" par 3 routing and tee boxes. So cool.
I did a lap around the River Course this morning. Very solid week of golf.
Jealous. Sounds like a solid week of banging VA courses.
Thanks for the shoutout Joe. I missed this amidst the horror show that is Hokie football right now.
The great thing about golf is beyond being an unbelievably fun/hard/addicting/bang your head against the wall sport is that it provides the best framework to spend quality time with good people. Joe and I were internet acquaintances prior to getting together but we just hopped in a cart and talked like lifelong buddies.
Also shot a personal best 77 yesterday. Fall golf is here and its the best.
Where'd you shoot the 77?!
Blacksburg CC. Got off the tee really well and was a GIR machine! 39/38
Love it!
Shot my personal best yesterday. 81 at Castle Rock in Pembroke. It's a fun course but poor condition. Tees without grass, fairways full of crabgrass and clover, and greens while in decent condition needed to be mowed a lot more than they were. But for the price, and considering Auburn Hills recently punched greens, both Draper/Hanging Rock were closed for an event, and I'm done paying River Course prices to get my ass kicked, I enjoyed the round.
If not for the fact I forgot how to hit a 100 yard wedge for a bit on 13 and 14, I would have broken 80 for the first time. Oh well.
Another nice course in the area to consider is Great Oaks in Floyd.
That's a good call. Played there a few months ago. Enjoyed it but I owe that course a better showing. We considered it this time, but wanted to stay closer to the burg.
Been getting out a fair amount on the weekends lately. Yesterday, my home club was hosting a state golf association event, so me and 3 buddies went to one of the nicer public's in the area.
Had my best round of the year - 81 that had 6 shots of what if. 2 birdies, 2 doubles (each included a shot shot fired OB) and 7 bogeys ( 2 were 3 putt bogeys where I missed 4 footers for par.). My putter, even with the 3 putts, was on fire - made 5 putts over 10 feet, including a 36' for birdie on the first hole.
Handicap is now 11.5 and I need to adjust my Arccos target to single digits analysis. Feels like a dream that I am afraid I am going to wake up from at anytime.
Has anyone ever done an indoor golf simulator place that offers membership, like this?
I have done X-Golf which is sort of like Topgolf just all indoors, but I was curious how something that is membership-only would work.
There's one in Charleston that I loved. It was also open to the non-members but membership gave you 24/7 access and a severely discounted hourly rate.
Nice. Did you still have to book ahead of time as a member? I am curious how the 24/7 access works with only 2 bays. Meaning what happens if you show up and both bays are full. I'll ask the venue myself but was interested in any firsthand experiences.
Did the place track your stats in any way?
The Trackman app holds all your stats and rounds. At the place I played at you signed into your trackman account on the computer before your session.
CHS golf was all online booking and I never really had an issue getting a spot the 24/7 guys definitely didn't, you'd maybe see some traffic at like peak hours but I think I only went in once where all 4 bays were occupied. There was no lead time on booking so if I was driving by at 7:30 I'd just swing in and book on my phone as I parked and that time slot for whatever bay I booked would disappear for everyone.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing!
US team not getting off to a great start today.
And not looking great in the afternoon rounds either. If they can get out of today down 6-2 that would be best case and at least somewhat salvageable
It's over Johnny. Fitzpatrick is shooting mid 50's with his own ball. Over. book it
That match has been over since the 7th hole. Just need Spieth/Thomas and Koepka/Scheffler to hold on and then tomorrows a new day.
I owe a recap of the St. Andrews trip. Might as well type some up while the Ryder Cup is on...
Rolling into town after being up for 24 hours more or less is more effective than a jug of coffee. Surreal. You are THERE! Also nothing like having about an hour to check in, take a shower, get your ish together, and roll out the door to walk to the first tee. In order to get to the New Course, you have to walk around the 18th and 1st of the Old. That is enough to pump you up even more. The good news is the opening tee shot of the entire trip requires something under 200 yards. Just bang a 5 iron out there and get rolling.
Decided to play a nice match, the 2 and 5 versus me (6) and the 8. Started off great with a bird from my partner on the first. And the ball was rolling! Trying to get strokes right, my ish together from playing in Scotland, lack of sleep, and trying to enjoy the moment added to the confusion of where the match stood about 6 holes in. We thought we were 2 up. My partner's caddie swore we were 3 up. Either way, we were ahead and never looked back.
The New is a lot like the Old, just not as long. But at par 71, it's not simple. There are enough fairway bunkers to grab your attention, and the par 3's aren't easy. #9 for instance is 211 (played over 220 for us) and was into the wind. OB/the firth on the left. Nasty deep grass long. Hit it well. There are some great views on the course (it's right next to the Old, and you will find people crossing from the Old as well as Jubilee since they run side by side by side.) Funny story about that, a player in another group hit one across our green/fairway to the back side. The caddie was walking across asking how close it was. My partner's caddie said it was close, but it was ok... "You're a big f$%&er, and would kick my ass, so I'll let it slide this time." We all had a good laugh.
My caddie was a university student. Said he liked looping because it keeps him out of the pubs. Plus he can play quite a bit at the end of the day. He did the job...never gave me a bad yardage or line, but all putts seemed to break 2 cups one way or another. I can read greens decent, so did a little self-calibration on a few. We had some good conversations and some laughs along the way. Hard to be upset when you are playing golf in St. Andrews.
There's a license for a lot of things in the UK just as there are in the US. The form to apply for a dog license is called form 76. On 12, both my partner and I made birdie on the shortish par 5. Walking off the green, my partner's caddie looks at us and says "Congrats boys, you just got your dog license today!" Confused, we both kind of looked at him with confusion on our faces. He says if you win 7&6, it's called a dog license. You best believe that stuck, and we secretly looked around town the rest of our trip for dog tags of sorts. (No luck btw.)
I got in a groove and played the last 7 in even par. Absolutely smoked one on 18 headed right back to the clubhouse and was left with around 90 yards in. Hit a wedge in and 2 putted for my 79. My buddy, the 2 cap (this was my 50th birthday present to myself, this was his 40th birthday present to himself) shot 78. Off to a great start. Went into the clubhouse, had a few beers, decided to order some food, then wander back to the hotel. Oh, we're 6 doors away from the Dunvegan? There's a table right on the corner that's open? It's only 8? On to the pub for a few more Scottish pints.
The one caddie of the group was a piece of work. As some of them always look, he's in wateproofs and a wool cap. It was over 60* all day. The bad news is our guy he was looping for didn't have his A game. He's a high ball hitter, and can't really flight his ball down much. This gave him issues. And frustrated the caddie. Which frustrated our buddy even more. There were several times the caddie was MAD at the result of the shot...like our buddy meant to hit into the gorse or the bunker. This led to some snarky comments the rest of the trip and a funny moment when we were at the Jigger Inn along the road hole and he was looping for another guy one day. We felt obligated to wave, but refrained from cussing him.
Are there ways/companies that book gaurenteed tee times at the Old Course? or is it all show up and hope for that day?
We had an insider help us. The Guaranteed times now are running in the $3k range with companies. You can do the lottery, but it fudges up the other rounds (you had to pivot, a lot, or hope you can still manage 36 on basically zero sleep.)
We paid around $2900 for 6 rounds, 7 nights, breakfast, and a driver/van for transport to/from airport and to all courses outside St. Andrews. I was quoted anywhere from $6,000 to $10,500 for nearly an identical trip. Sure, the hotel can add a little cost, but you can figure there's about $2,500-$4,000 for the guaranteed time on the old.
From what I understand, there are companies that have access to some tee times at the old course.
Yeah, you can pay the premium for those times, enter thu the ballot 48 hours in advance and hope that you are selected, or sleep out by the starter shack and hope for a time in that manner. The ballot is getting tougher since this year saw record numbers entering, so the odds went down dramatically. As far as lining up by the starter shack, there were 6 people in line for the next day when we finished our round Friday night. The basic gist is if you aren't in line by 1030 or so, you probably won't have luck the next day (during summer months.) We met someone that went down at 1130 and didn't get on. The times are filling up and getting scooped up quicker and quicker, so the premium for them is going up. Used to be the bump was under a grand, but you had a locked in time. It's basically tripled since covid.
Rahmbo. Sheesh.
That was a hossel rocket on 18...
Getting Three halves out of 2 up through 13, 2 up through 16, and 1 up through 17 is not great, bob
Daylight was fading fast. You can see the lights on in Town, and how much they illuminate.
http://www.instagram.com/p/Cv5CozYufF7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh...
Found out when we finished the New that we were scheduled on the Old Friday night teeing off at 508 and 516. That left the day to acclimate to the time, stretch out a bit, eat a big lunch, do some shopping, and get ready for the grandest or Museum piece golf courses ever. Our tour guide is a caddie at St. Andrews. (He caddied in the Open last year! And has done several Dunhills over the years.) Set it up to be at the starter shack around 430-445 to meet him and the member that he's line us up to play with. The deal we made was we would pay the member 400pounds cash. No problem. Normal round is 295, and the guaranteed time can run 10 times that. Deal.
Our guide caddied for me since I was the one that set things. Up. Found out the day before at the New (he saw us off the first tee) that he's a Sunderland fan. He didn't realize I'm a big Newcastle guy until we got to meet each other in person. There were a few soccer discussions during the round, and thankfully I've learned to lead with Newcastle and not Celtic while in Scotland. Very divisive. Very. The member we played with, Jamie, has the Rangers logo tattooed on his chest.
We're milling around the putting green and getting set on the first tee. Jamie asks which tees we want to play. Um, there's a choice? He says yeah, we can play the blacks! You don't have to tell me twice. I tossed out there that I kept my partner from the day before (John), and he partners up with the 2 cap (Brian). Turns out Jamie is a 1 at the Old...John and I better bring it.
There isn't much room around the 1st tee on the Old. There's a sidewalk between the course and the R&A. There's the 18th green on one side. And putting green on the other. But there's always constant movement. Always a lot of people. And them moving around makes it seem even busier than it really is. It's a simple shot honestly. Fairway is over 80 yards wide. Can hit it 220 without issue. Just swing. I've been playing for over 40 years. Played some big tournaments, in front of people, in competitions before. And I've hit this very shot before 10 years ago. But this time. 5pm. Playing with one of my best friends. Just hit the 3 wood down there. Please.
A groove low, but success. Thankfully I didn't catch every bit of it. I was 3 yards short of the burn as it winds back towards the tee on the right side. Ok, hitting 2. Just get a wedge on the green and 2-putt. Mission accomplished. On to #2. It's odd in this area. The space between the back of 1, side of 2, and left of 17 is expansive. There's nothing there. And routinely you'll find people cutting across the course to/from the hotel to the clubhouse. This was very true this afternoon. There must have been 15 people milling around in there. Hey, come on! We're playing golf here!
2 is fairly benign. 3 is simple. 4 starts to stretch out. 5 is a tight driving hole, with a wild green. 5 shares with 13, and is over 100 yards deep. It's so big there's a sprinkler in the middle of it. To add to the crazy, there's a 10' valley in front of it, with deep bunkers short of that. It's not many times you can say you have a 60' putt around here while not being able to see the back edge of the green. My caddie told me a story of the Open last year. He told his player they had 202 to the front. Guy was thinking ok maybe 6 iron or so. Then he told him the pin was 80 on. 282 to the pin! 6 appears to be wide open, but a string of bunkers in the middle of the landing area prove to be tricky. Then there's 7 with iron off the tee towards the 11th pin, then crossing shell bunker. 7 and 11 actually criss-cross each other. Its easy to get wrapped up in the round and the location, so lucky to have caddies to tell you when to hold up and when to go in the stretch from 7 to 12 with the mixing bowl. Hit a weak tee shot on 7 which led to a blind sand wedge to the green. Pin was far right so hardly any green to work with. Hard bounce (unlucky) put me on the back. All 3 others went well left of the Shell Bunker and came in hot to the tucked pin. This actually gave my caddie/tour guide a minute to just chat and take it all in. Good guy with similar music tastes. He's a big AC/DC fan. He like my Smashing Pumpkins inspired tattoo. And we both are fans of Chevelle. Talked golf, soccer, the Dunhill. It was a great round.
8 is a par 3 that probably wouldn't be designed today. Large plain green, probably 40 yards wide that's just "plain." Tried to dunk a 6 iron from 172, and was 5 feet when we got up there. Closed out the front! 9 is straight away, and there's now a brick halfway house between 9 and 10. We got out so late it was closed (that was more than fine) but you can hit it on the New as well. 10 switches back around and gets you to 11. This is one of the toughest visual par 3s out there. Shell bunker in between the tee and green. NOTHING behind it except the view of the firth. 2 other DEEP bunkers there. And it looks like the green is 10' deep. Hit a solid 7 iron that landed on the top, took a bounce, spun, and dropped in the bunker. Against the face. The 6' face. I couldn't see the top of the flag. Knocked up against the face and back in the bunker. The back. Against the lip. Had to go sideways towards 7 pin. Chip and putt later confirms it's indeed the shortest par 5 in the world.
12 tee might be the high point along the firth. And it gives you a good view of the fairway bunkers waiting to eat your tee shots. Managed to roll into the one on the right, but left enough of a stance to play out sideways. Had sand wedge in from there. Hit it to 10 feet and made the par putt keep things rolling. 5 over at this point.
Anyone that says 14 is easy must have played it downwind. The tees were back a bit for us and it played over 550 with the sun going down. Gotta bang it out there to get around wedge range for the 3rd. All 4 of us were split on this one. I think there was 80 yards left to right between all of us meeting back up at the green. Fun and interesting for sure. Choose your own adventure. 15 is another long one. I busted a drive and still had 5 iron in. 16 doesn't let up much either. Really, the stretch from 12 to 17 tee is straight killer. All par 4's with the lone par 5. No rest for the driver honestly. Just hit it and chase. While we didn't get another dog license, John and I close out Brian and Jamie on 14. Jamie offers up a "press" for the last 4 holes. Sure, why not. He stuffs his approach on 15 to 1'. Ok, we're 1 down on the press...
My approach into 16 came in a little hot. All the previous holes had some breeze in our face, but we failed to account for the hotel blocking the last bit into 16. Ended up long right in a grassed bowl up against the long grass collar. Chunked it out but only to like 25 feet. 2 putts later and I'm 6 over staring at the Hotel. 2 down on the press as well. Daylight is fading. It's taken 4:15 to get to the tee on 17. At least it's not late June when the caddies were saying it was taking 4:45 to get to the 17th tee. We sent one caddie up to the corner to spot for us. Pick the line. Deep breath. Swing. I pushed it right of where I wanted, and right of where I thought it might be ok. It tuned out to be amazingly bad enough to be good. It hit the top of the stone wall between the hotel and the walking path, bounced in the air, and towards the fairway just a yard shy. One of those shots that would have been cool to see if it wasn't yours, so glad I didn't have to watch it. What you don't hear a lot about 17 is that it's 450+ from the tips. (And the pros actually have a new tee box across the pathway cut into the driving range area.) Pin was front right on top of the knob there, and I still had 200 in. Hit a 2 iron that I came out of and it was headed straight for the road hole bunker. From the fairway, the pin is about even with the bunker. So luckily I hit it poorly enough to stay short by about 10'. The putting surface was still at least 5' above where my ball was, but putting it made the most sense. I gave it a good rap and it trundled up the hill and came to rest just past the hole. Maybe 8'. Not perfect, but at least I have a look at par. Rolled it in center cut for my par and to win the hole. We still have a chance to win the press!
Daylight was fading. Fast. The group behind us was part of our travel group. They played 17 quickly and we were still waiting on the group in front of us to clear the fairway. We played up 18 at the Old Course as 7! Such an amazing experience. To add to it, the Rusaks overlooks the fairway and they have a 4th floor bar with a balcony. There are dozens of people out there on a good night hooting and hollering at the players. We weren't spared. My tee shot was decent enough to find the center, but unfortunately enough to find a half sand-filled divot. With 105 in, I tried to pinch a wedge to get it to fly and hop forward. It squirted a little right and spun, just on the collar. Pin was back right/center so I was still 50' away with limited light. Caddie and I agreed to 3' of break and I gave it a run. 8' short. I missed that one trying to get out of the way, but wasn't hurt over it since I still shot 79 on the Old and got to play with one of my best friends in the world.
Well we managed to lose the Ryder Cup on Day 1. YIKES
Yep- same story- a Euro shoots 52 (Fitzpatrick) on his own ball, and we can't sink 5 ft. putts. Also Speith shanks a wedge on 18- glorious. Much the same as the past 30 years. It's not even close really. The Euros dominate this.
Don't forget Wyndham Clark spraying his approach on 18 50 yards off line. All around debacle. Jon Rahm was the luckiest golfer I have ever seen today.
How do you lose 9&7 in the Ryder Cup? Shot 40 on the front! Hovland/Amberg won a hole w a bogey. Won it. That's Saturday morning $2 Nassau crap. And might be a little karma for Keopka talking about Rahm yesterday.
When your team is down 6.5 - 1.5 after the first day and the best you could do in any match is a halve, you probably should keep your mouth shut.
And prob shouldn't celebrate when down 5 points across the line of one of the best players in the world. Rory is gonna pull a Tiger on Ames tomorrow on Sam Burns.
Even though the result was a foregone conclusion after the first day, there still is no better golf being played then at the ryder cup. With less balls in play it seems like more chip ins, long hole outs, and almost hole in ones then any other golf tournament.
Viktor looks like he is on a path for his first major and world #1 ranking.
Homa is the new heart and soul for the americans.
Scottie needs to go buy a L.A.B broomstick putter immediately.
I've been eyeing that L.A.B. broomstick, especially having lost a club match play round to one recently. $559.00 is a chunk for a putter, but if I could make a few more per round............?
I switched to a L.A.B DirectForce 2.1 broomstick putter earlier this season. I scoured labgolfoutlet.com until I found one in my specs for a discounted price and after a month break-in period figuring out my swing and getting used to it I can say I have never putted better in my life. Played a round last month with 24 putts.
Always enjoy it. THE best in the world (except a few from the International squad) throwing down.
Coverage was meh, but I've come to expect that with NBC.
And the social media junk about the American squad was terrible. Way off base. Golf Digest on FB and Insta were one of the main ones stirring the pot against us, with several untruths and misleading info.
Viktor is a stud. As are several young guys on the Euro squad. Heck, they left a guy that won TWICE on this course off the team. Sheesh.
Coverage is an absolute joke. No one gets screwed harder in professional sports than golf fans. I DVR'd everything instead of staying up all night and it took no time to catch up on live coverage due to the amount of commercials.
There is no bigger homefield advantage than at the ryder cup.
Got out today for one last round before I'm focused on deer hunting rest of the year. Played at Auburn Hills and put together the round of my year. Was even thru 7, brain fart on 8 (7) and 9 (8), then played the back +4 for an 83. I'm happy with that after not playing since August. Putting the sticks away until March probably.
I envy you. I wish I could put clubs away for a few months and then come back and shoot in the 80s. Last time I was out I shot a 102. If I didn't implode on the par 5 on the back 9 and look like I had never swung a club before I'm sub 100 for the first time. This has been the single hardest thing I've ever tried to do and it's driving me crazy 😩
I hear you. This has been my best season since starting to play about 17 years ago. I usually lose touch with a layoff but this year it didn't happen that way.
I never really practice, never had a lesson. I typically shoot 92-100, sometimes 100+ and rarely in the 80s. I have broken 90 maybe 5-6 times ever but 4 of those were this year. The only changes I made were focusing on a certain wrist position in my swing and course management. For the wrist position, I've been focusing on trying to bend my left wrist out so it isnt cupped. I don't know how to describe it better than that, but it's something I noticed all good players do to a certain extent. I don't really understand why but it has helped immensely in consistent contact and trajectory/direction, especially with my irons. I still tend to overcook my draw into a hook with my driver if I don't pay attention to my setup. Saturday at Auburn Hills group ahead was on 16 green, a tee shot I usually go for the green on, so I decided to just hit an easy shot to the fairway rather than wait for them to clear. Accidentally hooked it and drove right into them standing by the flag. A quick Fore! and an apology, then a chip and two putt for par. Somewhat embarrassing accident and frustrating par from 25 feet, but I'll take it.
As far as course management, I've been trying to pay close attention to thinking about my misses and making sure my typical worst case with a certain club selection isn't going to be big trouble. Choosing my spots to get aggressive but otherwise playing conservative and swinging at about 75-80% has really helped avoid the big numbers.
Next year I'd like to think I'm going to focus on short game from 100 and in, but I'll probably just skip practice, play as often as I can, and be happy with my 13-15 handicap.
I know exactly what you mean! I actually implemented that myself this season. I could never figure out why I seemed to be making contact but the ball was going nowhere. I try to think about keeping my left wrist extended or turned? It has made a huge difference.
Short game is killing me. Chipping might as well be a different game altogether
Just got back from playing what will likely be the last outdoor round of the year in Michigan. Shot a pedestrian 87. Drove the ball mostly well, but didn't chip well or get up and down, much.
Started the year with a 17 handicap and finished with a 12.5 Got it as low as 11.5 with some low 80's rounds in September. I think I got 60 rounds in and got my baby draw back.
It's on to sim golf for the winter. I am probably going to try to grind a bit this winter to improve my ball striking. First round is this Friday (yay Veteran's Day observed holiday).
Went down to VA Beach to help my cousin out with his HVAC problem. He took me out to play golf. Shot a personal best +1 71. +2 on the front. Got to even with 3 to play and he wouldn't shut up about me being -2 on the back. Bogeyed the next whole but parred out. Technically had a shot at even on 18 but it was a 50 ft downhill breaker that I missed by a foot. Been low 80s high 70s all summer. Literally was just surprised at how nothing special happened but just didn't have any big mistakes besides 3-4 3 putts. Felt great!
Nice round.
Which course did you play?? Thats my neck of the woods
Honey Bee GC!
I really like honey bee! I just wish they didn't stack their tee times like 7 minutes apart.
still in golf mode here on occasion...+7 monday afternoon. snowbird factor is becoming significant. if the weather is good to us, fishing could take over for the next few months
Reviving the thread to get some advice: I'd like to get my gf's dad some golf balls for Christmas as he's getting into golfing in retirement. He'd really like some orange balls because they're easier for him to see, but even still there's so many choices out there. I don't think he needs some ultra-professional level golf balls, so what are some recommendations for an amateur who just wants to golf?
My humble recommendation is callaway Super Soft. They make this in various colors- it a solid ball.
That's actually what I was leaning towards, but I figured I'd get some opinions first.
DC nailed it. No need to consider something else.
Agreed. As an amateur golfer myself, I've hit Callaway balls better than just about anything else. And I've hit just about everything because I'm that guy who finds lost balls in the woods while looking for mine and I end up with a dozen mixed balls
Well three consecutive replies for the same one is enough for me. I got him some Callaway soft core balls in orange (his preference).
Thanks everyone!
He'll appreciate them. Happy golfing!
Its a great gift- he will love them!
They got ya covered with a great recommendation. And the soccer ball style is just as easy pick up visually as an orange one.
Rahm to LIV golf
The article says in excess of 300 million for 3 years but I have heard reports of up to 600 million.
I guess Ted Dibiase was right, everyone has a price.
+5 Tuesday
ordered a strong 3 wood yesterday in wild anticipation of roll-back; gonna have to find that yardage somewhere!
: )
Hit 50 in Michigan today and the calendar was clear so i got a quick 18 in this afternoon. Managed to shoot 88 playing in 2.5 hours (as a threesome). Not a lot of time was spent reading putts.
Had indoor league tonight and I am quite sore now. Warm weather holds tomorrow so I am going to try to get another 18 in.
Playing golf in Michigan in December - February is basically playing with house money.
As a South Carolina resident the idea of an indoor league is mind boggling. I've got a 7am tee time next Saturday and we just hope we don't get the rare frost delay in the morning.
same...the winter challenge here is slow play/early sunset (I thought we were getting rid of EST???)
It's trade offs. I probably wouldn't play in the height of the Carolina summer swamp ass. I don't like 90° temps and 90% humidity.
You get your swings when and where you can. It's actually a decent way to work on your swing, too. You don't have to worry about losing a ball if you try a shot shape and fail to execute it (or execute it too well)
Not a lot of time was spent reading putts.
I laughed out loud.
Glad you were/are able to get out
Funny thing is, I made 4 putts over 10 feet. I am a good putter in season, but I was surprised to see anything fall from that distance.
Actually got north of 60° today. Wind was up but until the last few holes it was comfortable. Didn't play as well but I have a 4 hole par streak going into the next round which will probably be next year (so I got that going for me, which is nice. ).
Played The Club at Glenmore in Cville day after Thanksgiving. Fun course. Never played before. Two par 3s required hitting off mats due to tee box condition which for whatever reason messed me up. Still shot 91. 8 GIR and one birdie, greens were a lot different than I'm used to. Frost delay, three layers on upper body, two pairs of pants, knit cap and gloves on both hands. I'll take that score. I'm done until March or April, for real this time.
Getting wrapped around the axle over the rollback, I was stimulated to go ahead and make a move I've been contemplating. And that it is taking my 18 degree 5 wood out of the bag; and replacing it with an adjustable (down to 14 degree) Paradym 3 wood (outstanding deal on Callaway pre-owned..it hadn't been hit).
I've found that most rounds, I don't hit the 5 at all (the 16.5 is easy to hit and has plenty of loft); so fairway woods are now 14, 16.5, and 21 degrees. I'll use the 14 degree when I need to hit draw off the tee or want to lay up short of a fairway bunker; and I should be able to fade it off a decent lie as a second shot on some par 5's...it'll buy me a few yards here and there.
For you Maxfli fans, I'll say the 2023 Tour CG sounds and feels (off the putter) much closer to the ProV1 than the 2021 version. If that's what they were going for, I think they succeeded. Other than the dimple pattern, I don't think most golfers could tell a difference; and the MyGolfSpy performance specs are remarkably close.