During the Saints - Vikings game, I switched over to the Golf Channel to see what was happening in golf. The Champions Tour was on, which I normally don't watch. But I started to watch it more than the football game. Freddie Couples was making his debut on the Champions Tour. He and Tom Watson were matching birdies in the last few holes. And on the 18th hole, Watson hit a beautiful shot from the rough to 4 feet from the pin, while Freddie left a 12 footer. When Freddie missed his putt, Watson was able to sink his for the victory. It was pretty darn exciting for the Champions Tour.
By the way, the old adage was at play: Drive for show, putt for dough. Freddie drove the ball 60 yards farther than Watson, but Watson's approach shots came through for him as did his putter.
With the PGA sans Tiger, I'll have to pay more attention to the Champions Tour.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Innovative Marketing by a Local Golf Course
If you live in Northern California, you know we've been hit by four storms and have had plenty of rain. Golf is not a possibility right now.
I received an e-mail from a course that I like to play, the Links at Bodega Harbour, which is located in Bodega Bay. Did you ever see Hitchcock's The Birds? That movie was filmed in this scenic coastal town.
The e-mail was an offer to buy a tee time for a foursome at $1 per hole for weekdays or $2 per hole for weekends. So for a weekday round, it'll cost $18 for the green fee and $15 for the cart. It's a better rate than their usual weekday round, and you have until April 18th to use the round.
I liked their ingenuity in promoting their course during the storms, and that they're making revenue when no one is even on the course.
If you're in the Bay Area, check out the link above and enjoy Bodega Bay and the Links!
I received an e-mail from a course that I like to play, the Links at Bodega Harbour, which is located in Bodega Bay. Did you ever see Hitchcock's The Birds? That movie was filmed in this scenic coastal town.
The e-mail was an offer to buy a tee time for a foursome at $1 per hole for weekdays or $2 per hole for weekends. So for a weekday round, it'll cost $18 for the green fee and $15 for the cart. It's a better rate than their usual weekday round, and you have until April 18th to use the round.
I liked their ingenuity in promoting their course during the storms, and that they're making revenue when no one is even on the course.
If you're in the Bay Area, check out the link above and enjoy Bodega Bay and the Links!
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Happy 2010!
Happy New Year! Hope it's a golf-filled year for you. I can't believe it's been so long since I've written in here. Since last writing, Michelle Wie has won her first LPGA tournament, and we have no idea when Tiger will win his next PGA tournament. Some ups and downs in the world of professional golf, but it shouldn't affect how we continue to play the game and use it to deepen our business relationships.
I've been focused on a new project that I'm very excited about launching in the near future. It's allowed me to interview some business and golf celebrities, and I can't wait to pass on what I've learned from them to you. Each person I've spoken to has taught me something about business golf.
Stay tuned, and happy golfing, if weather permits. In the SF Bay Area, I'm still able to go out and chase that white ball!
I've been focused on a new project that I'm very excited about launching in the near future. It's allowed me to interview some business and golf celebrities, and I can't wait to pass on what I've learned from them to you. Each person I've spoken to has taught me something about business golf.
Stay tuned, and happy golfing, if weather permits. In the SF Bay Area, I'm still able to go out and chase that white ball!
Friday, October 09, 2009
Golf in the 2016 Olympics
A great day for golf and the world stage! The Olympics has been accepted in the 2016 and 2020 Olympics. It will be first time since 1904 that golf has been played in the Olympics. It'll be a 72-hole competition with 60 men and 60 women competing. Can't wait to see Tiger, Phil, and others play in the Olympics.
Presidents Cup and more!
The Presidents Cup has started on The Golf Channel. I'm hoping the US can build on its slim lead.
Two interesting stories from the Presidents Cup regarding etiquette. I always talk about turning off your cell phones when playing with a client. If you're a golf marshal, it's even more important that you shut off your phone, since your duty is to keep the gallery quiet. Unfortunately a marshal's cell phone rang 5 times before Geoff Oglivy made a putt, and ended up missing his putt. Apparently, an obnoxious fan also yelled a comment to interrupt Oglivy. In a moment of class, Tiger apologized to Oglivy, even though he was not involved in disturbing Oglivy's routine.
The other is Michael Jordan's smoking of a cigar on Harding Park. SF has an ordinance that does not allow smoking on the golf course. So, poor MJ was told to stop smoking his cigar. Remember, they're playing in San Francisco, so there might be laws you've never heard of anywhere else, but in SF.
Besides having your concentration thrown off, golf can be dangerous to your well being. In Beaufort, SC, a 70-something golfer went to a lake to retrieve his ball, and an alligator jumped out and pulled him in to the lake. In the struggle, the man's arm was bitten off! The authorities were able to kill the alligator and retrieve his arm in hopes they can re-attach it. Best wishes for a speedy and full recovery to that golfer!
Here's a tip: When going to a golf course that you've never played before, ask players familiar with the course if there are snakes, alligators, or anything else that might bite or sting you. If there are such critters, I announce to my playing partners that I don't intend to be rude, but won't be looking for their lost balls or mine. I'd take a stroke and distance penalty any time over meeting a snake and anything else that I hope to never meet.
So, beware of cell phones, non-smoking rules, and alligators! Enjoy the Presidents Cup!!
Two interesting stories from the Presidents Cup regarding etiquette. I always talk about turning off your cell phones when playing with a client. If you're a golf marshal, it's even more important that you shut off your phone, since your duty is to keep the gallery quiet. Unfortunately a marshal's cell phone rang 5 times before Geoff Oglivy made a putt, and ended up missing his putt. Apparently, an obnoxious fan also yelled a comment to interrupt Oglivy. In a moment of class, Tiger apologized to Oglivy, even though he was not involved in disturbing Oglivy's routine.
The other is Michael Jordan's smoking of a cigar on Harding Park. SF has an ordinance that does not allow smoking on the golf course. So, poor MJ was told to stop smoking his cigar. Remember, they're playing in San Francisco, so there might be laws you've never heard of anywhere else, but in SF.
Besides having your concentration thrown off, golf can be dangerous to your well being. In Beaufort, SC, a 70-something golfer went to a lake to retrieve his ball, and an alligator jumped out and pulled him in to the lake. In the struggle, the man's arm was bitten off! The authorities were able to kill the alligator and retrieve his arm in hopes they can re-attach it. Best wishes for a speedy and full recovery to that golfer!
Here's a tip: When going to a golf course that you've never played before, ask players familiar with the course if there are snakes, alligators, or anything else that might bite or sting you. If there are such critters, I announce to my playing partners that I don't intend to be rude, but won't be looking for their lost balls or mine. I'd take a stroke and distance penalty any time over meeting a snake and anything else that I hope to never meet.
So, beware of cell phones, non-smoking rules, and alligators! Enjoy the Presidents Cup!!
Monday, October 05, 2009
Need a Site for Everything Golf?
Check out www.MyGolfMark.com--Your Resource Site for Everything Golf.
It's a site where you'll likely find everything you need related to golf. If you want the latest news, go to Media and find the golf wire services, or online golf magazines. If you want to compare different manufacturers clubs, go to the Club Manufacturers Tab and find sites to the top-name brands.
One day I was searching for a new wedge. I first searched Google for the URL of a company, then I'd go to the site. When I wanted to find another company, I had to go to Google again and look for the URL. I figured there had to be a better way to research golf, so I created the site.
Please visit www.MyGolfMark.com and let me know what you think. And, if you have a site or a blog, please add a link to it.
Thanks!
It's a site where you'll likely find everything you need related to golf. If you want the latest news, go to Media and find the golf wire services, or online golf magazines. If you want to compare different manufacturers clubs, go to the Club Manufacturers Tab and find sites to the top-name brands.
One day I was searching for a new wedge. I first searched Google for the URL of a company, then I'd go to the site. When I wanted to find another company, I had to go to Google again and look for the URL. I figured there had to be a better way to research golf, so I created the site.
Please visit www.MyGolfMark.com and let me know what you think. And, if you have a site or a blog, please add a link to it.
Thanks!
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Golf and Tennis Aren't a Match
I was shocked to read Greg Norman and Chris Evert have already separated after a year of marriage. When seeing them in interviews, you would have thought they were inseparable. Each brought in fortunes, along with respective prenuptial agreements, so I'm sure a divorce will be very simple procedure. Maybe that's the problem, it's too easy to walk away. Perhaps, not to surprising when it's her third and his second.
It's too bad. They were an attractive couple in terms of looks and athletic star-power. I hope this won't interfere with Greg's duties as Captain of the International Team at the President's Cup.
It's too bad. They were an attractive couple in terms of looks and athletic star-power. I hope this won't interfere with Greg's duties as Captain of the International Team at the President's Cup.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Billion Dollar Man
According to Forbes, Tiger has earned a billion dollars since turning pro. This number includes tournament prize money, appearance fees, endorsements, golf course design, and bonuses. Not sure what bonuses he gets as a golfer, unlike football where players make millions just for signing a contract, but his IMG agent Mark Steinberg must do a great job for him.
He is the first athlete to surpass the benchmark of a billion dollars. His pal, Michael Jordan, may also earn a billion, but it is estimated that it will take him four or five years.
Congratulations, Tiger!
He is the first athlete to surpass the benchmark of a billion dollars. His pal, Michael Jordan, may also earn a billion, but it is estimated that it will take him four or five years.
Congratulations, Tiger!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Dual Winners at The TOUR Championship
I didn't watch the final round of the TOUR Championship today, but saw the final 4 holes on tape and the interviews following. Congrats to Tiger for winning the FedEx Cup and to Phil for getting his putting in gear and winning the Championship.
Unfortunately during Phil's interview he tried to make a joke about his not understanding why he shot 65 and got a check for $1.3 million only, while Tiger shot 70 and got a check for $10 million. I was happy for Phil given his trying year, but with that comment it showed his lack graciousness.
Meanwhile, I tried to play today, but after waiting on every shot and having three groups on one hole on several holes, my group decided we had had enough at the seventh tee. The foursome ahead of the field was playing in the final round of a match play event. They were at least 20 minutes behind and held up the entire field.
Worse is that one member of the foursome is a Board Member (he had previously complained that I disturbed him with the sound of my driver when he was hitting his second shot), it was pretty outrageous to play so slowly. Karma must have come into play as that Board Member and his partner lost today. If a Board Member can't figure out how to keep up the pace, then he should at least let groups through.
Unfortunately during Phil's interview he tried to make a joke about his not understanding why he shot 65 and got a check for $1.3 million only, while Tiger shot 70 and got a check for $10 million. I was happy for Phil given his trying year, but with that comment it showed his lack graciousness.
Meanwhile, I tried to play today, but after waiting on every shot and having three groups on one hole on several holes, my group decided we had had enough at the seventh tee. The foursome ahead of the field was playing in the final round of a match play event. They were at least 20 minutes behind and held up the entire field.
Worse is that one member of the foursome is a Board Member (he had previously complained that I disturbed him with the sound of my driver when he was hitting his second shot), it was pretty outrageous to play so slowly. Karma must have come into play as that Board Member and his partner lost today. If a Board Member can't figure out how to keep up the pace, then he should at least let groups through.
Friday, September 25, 2009
A Friend to Have
Tiger Woods gave Sean O'Hair a putting tip before the start of the TOUR Championship. Who's on top of the leader board so far? Sean O'Hair.
Why would Tiger give one of only 28 competitors a tip to improve his game and scoring?
"It's very simple," Woods said. "You always help your friends. Sean is a friend of mine, and like all my friends, you always try to make their life better somehow. Sean has been struggling a bit on the greens this year, and I thought I could offer a little bit of help and insight to how he could change that."
As O'Hair said it was a classy thing to do. There is no doubt, Tiger is a class act.
Why would Tiger give one of only 28 competitors a tip to improve his game and scoring?
"It's very simple," Woods said. "You always help your friends. Sean is a friend of mine, and like all my friends, you always try to make their life better somehow. Sean has been struggling a bit on the greens this year, and I thought I could offer a little bit of help and insight to how he could change that."
As O'Hair said it was a classy thing to do. There is no doubt, Tiger is a class act.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Went Into Withdrawals
There wasn't a PGA Tour event this last weekend, and I sure felt it. Yes, I know the 30 top point leaders are getting ready to play in the TOUR Championship this weekend as the FedEx Cup nears end. But, since when did the PGA Tour have a bye week for the entire Tour?
I even recall other tournaments being held for those who didn't make it into another tournament. During the Open, there is a PGA Tour event for those who didn't qualify. Or, even during one of the WGC Championships, there is a PGA Tour event for those who weren't invited.
I was in S. Lake Tahoe until Sunday, and the house there doesn't have a t.v., so I wouldn't have been able to watch a tournament even if it were on. I didn't play because I had some work to do, but it hasn't stopped me in the past from going to Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. While there, I get to be lake-side, grab a drink with lunch, and watch a couple hours of a tournament. Or, going to PGATour.com and following the leaders and news online several times during the weekend.
But, this weekend, there was nothing to follow! Well, I guess I'll have to get used to it as we approach the end of the season. After I got home, though, I watched the final hole of the LPGA's Samsung Championship. I did enjoy the intrigue as the leader hit into the water unfortunately, and the runner-up later made birdie on the final hole to win.
Yes, a definite realization of how much I'm addicted to either playing or following Tiger, Phil, Jim, Steve and the rest of the guys on the PGA Tour. Although not a fan of addictions in general, this is one that I like and will keep:)!
I even recall other tournaments being held for those who didn't make it into another tournament. During the Open, there is a PGA Tour event for those who didn't qualify. Or, even during one of the WGC Championships, there is a PGA Tour event for those who weren't invited.
I was in S. Lake Tahoe until Sunday, and the house there doesn't have a t.v., so I wouldn't have been able to watch a tournament even if it were on. I didn't play because I had some work to do, but it hasn't stopped me in the past from going to Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. While there, I get to be lake-side, grab a drink with lunch, and watch a couple hours of a tournament. Or, going to PGATour.com and following the leaders and news online several times during the weekend.
But, this weekend, there was nothing to follow! Well, I guess I'll have to get used to it as we approach the end of the season. After I got home, though, I watched the final hole of the LPGA's Samsung Championship. I did enjoy the intrigue as the leader hit into the water unfortunately, and the runner-up later made birdie on the final hole to win.
Yes, a definite realization of how much I'm addicted to either playing or following Tiger, Phil, Jim, Steve and the rest of the guys on the PGA Tour. Although not a fan of addictions in general, this is one that I like and will keep:)!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Women Shoots Two Holes in One on Same Day!
A 64-year young woman in England shot her first hole in one and, then ten holes later, shot her second hole in one. She had witnesses in her group and the men in the foursome ahead gave her a thumbs up to say it went in on the first one. Then, after not being able to find the ball on the second hole, she discovered it was in the hole.
That's incredible to shoot two aces in one day! I've had three holes in one over my 20 years of playing and feel very lucky to have done so. But, to get two on the same day after only playing for 10 years is amazing! She definitely needs to go and buy a lottery ticket!
Congratulations! I'm sure there were plenty of drinks poured in that clubhouse!
That's incredible to shoot two aces in one day! I've had three holes in one over my 20 years of playing and feel very lucky to have done so. But, to get two on the same day after only playing for 10 years is amazing! She definitely needs to go and buy a lottery ticket!
Congratulations! I'm sure there were plenty of drinks poured in that clubhouse!
Fines in Tennis...Golf Next?
You've probably heard about Serena being fined a total of $10,500. for her behavior during her finals match at the US Open. Then, Roger Federer got fined $1,500 for his use of an expletive when talking to the umpire. I understand emotions run high in competitions and built-up frustration can cause someone to blow up. There are limits, however.
I agree with the fine against Serena because she did much more than just use an expletive. Besides her use of many expletives, she was threatening of the line umpire as she waved her racket in a taunting manner. Moreover, she didn't just explode once, she went back at her two additional times.
And, to get into a possibly sensitive area, I don't think the line umpire made the foot fault call because of her racism. Arguably the opposite could also be true that Serena was being racist as she went after the petite Asian umpire. If the line umpire was black would she have behaved the same way?
Calls of racism whether in sports or politics should be omitted. There is no way of knowing, without their admission, what their reasons are for speaking and acting out in whatever way. It only adds possibly unwarranted and unfounded speculation to an already bad situation.
As to Federer's fine, I understand why he was fined, i.e. you can't allow players to use an expletive when speaking to an umpire. But, I don't find his comments as extreme as Serena's. I suspect that word is part of his everyday vernacular. In this case, though, Federer shouldn't have said it to the umpire.
So, will we see fines in golf next? I doubt it. Tiger's use of expletives and slamming of clubs seem to be less recently. Understandably, it's objectionable because kids watch him and want to emulate him. But, his tirades are directed at himself. He's not gone after another player, Stevie, or a Rules official with his club waving at them, or even in any conversations that we've heard.
How does this relate to business golf with your clients? It should be pretty obvious that you can't pull a Serena and go after another player. That kind of out of control behavior will likely cost you clients and your reputation in the community. If you let loose an expletive or two, I'd apologize, so your business guests know it's not part of your usual way of speaking.
Most clients can understand a slip of the tongue. It's important though that they also know you realize it was inappropriate and have a standard of decorum.
Hope you get to out and play this weekend!
I agree with the fine against Serena because she did much more than just use an expletive. Besides her use of many expletives, she was threatening of the line umpire as she waved her racket in a taunting manner. Moreover, she didn't just explode once, she went back at her two additional times.
And, to get into a possibly sensitive area, I don't think the line umpire made the foot fault call because of her racism. Arguably the opposite could also be true that Serena was being racist as she went after the petite Asian umpire. If the line umpire was black would she have behaved the same way?
Calls of racism whether in sports or politics should be omitted. There is no way of knowing, without their admission, what their reasons are for speaking and acting out in whatever way. It only adds possibly unwarranted and unfounded speculation to an already bad situation.
As to Federer's fine, I understand why he was fined, i.e. you can't allow players to use an expletive when speaking to an umpire. But, I don't find his comments as extreme as Serena's. I suspect that word is part of his everyday vernacular. In this case, though, Federer shouldn't have said it to the umpire.
So, will we see fines in golf next? I doubt it. Tiger's use of expletives and slamming of clubs seem to be less recently. Understandably, it's objectionable because kids watch him and want to emulate him. But, his tirades are directed at himself. He's not gone after another player, Stevie, or a Rules official with his club waving at them, or even in any conversations that we've heard.
How does this relate to business golf with your clients? It should be pretty obvious that you can't pull a Serena and go after another player. That kind of out of control behavior will likely cost you clients and your reputation in the community. If you let loose an expletive or two, I'd apologize, so your business guests know it's not part of your usual way of speaking.
Most clients can understand a slip of the tongue. It's important though that they also know you realize it was inappropriate and have a standard of decorum.
Hope you get to out and play this weekend!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Golf in Perspective
Pro golfer Brandt Snedeker needed to two putt his final hole in last week's tournament, so he could play in The Tour Championship in two weeks. The Tour Championship is the final playoff to determine the winner of the FedEx Cup who will take home 10 million dollars.
Unfortunately Snedeker didn't just three-putt that hole, he four putted (watch the 1.33 minute video) it. It cost him tens of thousands of dollars.
In my presentations, I talk about the seven personal and business benefits of playing golf. The first one about playing golf is it's Fabulous Fun. I remind my audience that for us golf should be just fun (even, and especially, when we're playing with clients and prospects). We don't have to worry about how much a putt costs us if we miss it. Or, whether will we make the cut to play in the next round of a tournament.
If you're struggling with your game, remind yourself about the big picture as to why you're playing the game. Over the last two Sundays, I've attended two funerals of family members. One family member was only 62 years young. Life is short, so whether you play for the camaraderie, the competition, or exercise, keep playing and remember to have fun!
Unfortunately Snedeker didn't just three-putt that hole, he four putted (watch the 1.33 minute video) it. It cost him tens of thousands of dollars.
In my presentations, I talk about the seven personal and business benefits of playing golf. The first one about playing golf is it's Fabulous Fun. I remind my audience that for us golf should be just fun (even, and especially, when we're playing with clients and prospects). We don't have to worry about how much a putt costs us if we miss it. Or, whether will we make the cut to play in the next round of a tournament.
If you're struggling with your game, remind yourself about the big picture as to why you're playing the game. Over the last two Sundays, I've attended two funerals of family members. One family member was only 62 years young. Life is short, so whether you play for the camaraderie, the competition, or exercise, keep playing and remember to have fun!
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Las Vegas: PGA Show, Hoover Dam, and Zappos.com
I'm in Vegas and started with attending the PGA Show yesterday. It was pretty quiet, but it's not the big show, which is in January in Orlando, FL. Probably 4x as large. It was smaller, and I got a chance to speak to more of the manufacturers and vendors. Interested in a board game with golf as its topic and a never-dry out golf towel. Also visited the Callaway Golf Center. Learned more about golf fitting and excited to see the upcoming renovations of the Center...remodeling the Pro Shop and upgrading the driving range.
Today, I went to Hoover Dam and am amazed at the engineering feat. The brilliance of those people working on the world's largest dam!!!
Stopped at Boulder Creek Golf Course and didn't see many players. It was at least 100 degrees today, and I couldn't play in this heat. But, they're going into their high season as temps go down and Vegas courses close for seeding.
Then, went to Zappos.com and saw its headquarters. Met with its Golf Executive Officer and am excited to see how they make a presence in the golf market. Also, toured the offices and those folks are happy employees. No wonder the company does well.So, a fun day of Wows. Inspiring to see such success!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Golf is Still Business Meeting of Choice
According to employmentdigest.net, add golf to your resume:
"If you are looking for a financial, investment, real estate, marketing, or other business related job, golf is for sure the sport for you. It has become the business meeting sport of choice. Whether you are playing a round with your boss or a potential client, they will be impressed with your skills. If you are at least knowledgeable and some what able to hold your own on the green, let your hirer know. It is always good for the boss to have a go to guy to send to the green."
Liberty National in New Jersey has spectacular views of New York. President of Barclays, Robert Diamond, said Liberty National was selected because of its proximity to New York and businesses. Barclays bought most of the assets of Lehman Brothers, and they certainly see its golf sponsorship as a wise marketing investment.
"If you are looking for a financial, investment, real estate, marketing, or other business related job, golf is for sure the sport for you. It has become the business meeting sport of choice. Whether you are playing a round with your boss or a potential client, they will be impressed with your skills. If you are at least knowledgeable and some what able to hold your own on the green, let your hirer know. It is always good for the boss to have a go to guy to send to the green."
Liberty National in New Jersey has spectacular views of New York. President of Barclays, Robert Diamond, said Liberty National was selected because of its proximity to New York and businesses. Barclays bought most of the assets of Lehman Brothers, and they certainly see its golf sponsorship as a wise marketing investment.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Another Reason to Play Golf
According to Australian scientists, the smell of freshly mowed grass is relaxing and good for people. They're even making a cologne mimicking that scent. Check out the article.
Speaking of grass, according to Paul Azinger, Captain of last year's victorious American Ryder Cup team, he doesn't understand why more professional players don't still wear metal spikes. Tiger and Phil still do, which should tell us something, but we can't since most courses that we play require that we wear soft spikes.
Finally, fall is soon on its way, which means a change in our weather. Play more and play often, even if it means only getting out for nine holes!
Speaking of grass, according to Paul Azinger, Captain of last year's victorious American Ryder Cup team, he doesn't understand why more professional players don't still wear metal spikes. Tiger and Phil still do, which should tell us something, but we can't since most courses that we play require that we wear soft spikes.
Finally, fall is soon on its way, which means a change in our weather. Play more and play often, even if it means only getting out for nine holes!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tiger-Stevie Twosome
In Tiger's last major, the Open, Tiger missed the cut and Stevie, his caddy, takes the blame. Stevie lost sleep for 2-3 days after the Open because he felt he didn't do his job as Tiger's caddy. Some may dislike Stevie after his comments about Phil, but I've never heard a caddy blame himself for his player's problems on the course. I've also never heard Tiger blame Stevie.
For some insights into Stevie and how he helped Tiger turn that first dismal first round into a victory at the Buick, check out this article by Robert Lusetich.
P.S. Got to love Stevie's wife, who also has a part in Tiger's success.
For some insights into Stevie and how he helped Tiger turn that first dismal first round into a victory at the Buick, check out this article by Robert Lusetich.
P.S. Got to love Stevie's wife, who also has a part in Tiger's success.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Padraig Takes the Blame
Tiger beat Padraig Harrington by three strokes, but did the clock beat Padraig? On the 16th hole, the rules official told Tiger and Padraig to speed up because they were 17 minutes behind.
Players are given 40 seconds to hit their shots after they reach their balls. Tiger believes Padraig had to rush his shots on that hole which was the demise of Padraig. First Padraig hit his tee shot into the trees, then a shot into the slope of a bunker, and then he had a delicate shot to a green running away from him, which rolled into the water. Padraig had an eight on that par-5, which Tiger birdied and took the lead by three shots.
When they shook hands, Tiger seemed to be apologizing to Padraig that the official "got in the way of a great battle." Interestingly Padraig doesn't blame the official for putting them on the clock, "If you’re put on the clock, you always want to be nicely in position so you’re not having to think too much. I got out of position with my tee shot, my second shot and my third short. I got out of position and just got myself out of the zone.”
Padraig showed he takes responsibility for his bad shots on 16, which I admire. He could have gone along with Tiger blaming the rules official for his loss. Would Tiger have blamed the official if things were reversed? I'm not sure. Or, did Tiger not like winning against Padraig because Padraig was rushed and hit into the water? Part of me thinks Tiger is a purist and when he wins he wants to know that he beat his opponent and not because some outside influence affected the outcome.
Can't wait to watch this week's final Major, the PGA Championship!
UPDATE: The PGA Tour has fined Tiger for criticizing the official. Not sure if I like this call. Frankly, I would have fined him for his language and behavior on the course instead, which by the way, seems much better in the last two tournaments. I'm sure if his cap could talk, it would say plenty.
UPDATE II: Ty Votaw of the PGA has confirmed that Tiger did not get fined for his critical comments of the official.
Players are given 40 seconds to hit their shots after they reach their balls. Tiger believes Padraig had to rush his shots on that hole which was the demise of Padraig. First Padraig hit his tee shot into the trees, then a shot into the slope of a bunker, and then he had a delicate shot to a green running away from him, which rolled into the water. Padraig had an eight on that par-5, which Tiger birdied and took the lead by three shots.
When they shook hands, Tiger seemed to be apologizing to Padraig that the official "got in the way of a great battle." Interestingly Padraig doesn't blame the official for putting them on the clock, "If you’re put on the clock, you always want to be nicely in position so you’re not having to think too much. I got out of position with my tee shot, my second shot and my third short. I got out of position and just got myself out of the zone.”
Padraig showed he takes responsibility for his bad shots on 16, which I admire. He could have gone along with Tiger blaming the rules official for his loss. Would Tiger have blamed the official if things were reversed? I'm not sure. Or, did Tiger not like winning against Padraig because Padraig was rushed and hit into the water? Part of me thinks Tiger is a purist and when he wins he wants to know that he beat his opponent and not because some outside influence affected the outcome.
Can't wait to watch this week's final Major, the PGA Championship!
UPDATE: The PGA Tour has fined Tiger for criticizing the official. Not sure if I like this call. Frankly, I would have fined him for his language and behavior on the course instead, which by the way, seems much better in the last two tournaments. I'm sure if his cap could talk, it would say plenty.
UPDATE II: Ty Votaw of the PGA has confirmed that Tiger did not get fined for his critical comments of the official.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Persistence Pays Off for Tiger & Wie Selection for the Solheim Cup
After Thursday, I saw Tiger was tied for 95th in jeopardy of not making the cut for two consecutive tournaments. I thought it wasn't a good way to go into his final major, the PGA Championship.
Then, on Friday, he had a spectacular round and climbed his way to the first page of the leaderboard, and, of course, we know how this story ends. He wins today by three strokes.
His persistence and never believing he's out of a tournament are what makes Tiger a winner. Sure it's his great shot making and putting (except for Thursday), but there is just something else that makes him a winner from that far back.
Intimidation is still a factor. I'm in Tahoe where we don't have t.v. in the house, so I followed the tournament online and saw those ahead of him falling back as he rose up the leaderboard.
Given his past endorsement of Buick, I'm sure it's a nostalgic victory for him to win another Buick Open, especially since GM will not be sponsoring this tournament (or any other, I'm sure) any longer.
As to the Solheim Cup, Captain Beth Daniel selected Michelle Wie and Juli Inkster as wildcards for the team. A nice selection of veteran toughness and grooming a rookie for regular play on the team. Good luck, US Team!
Then, on Friday, he had a spectacular round and climbed his way to the first page of the leaderboard, and, of course, we know how this story ends. He wins today by three strokes.
His persistence and never believing he's out of a tournament are what makes Tiger a winner. Sure it's his great shot making and putting (except for Thursday), but there is just something else that makes him a winner from that far back.
Intimidation is still a factor. I'm in Tahoe where we don't have t.v. in the house, so I followed the tournament online and saw those ahead of him falling back as he rose up the leaderboard.
Given his past endorsement of Buick, I'm sure it's a nostalgic victory for him to win another Buick Open, especially since GM will not be sponsoring this tournament (or any other, I'm sure) any longer.
As to the Solheim Cup, Captain Beth Daniel selected Michelle Wie and Juli Inkster as wildcards for the team. A nice selection of veteran toughness and grooming a rookie for regular play on the team. Good luck, US Team!
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