Need to Find a New Putting Stroke?

The R&A and USGA have tentatively banned the use of a putter anchored on one's body, effective January 1, 2016. So if you put your putter against your belly or chest and have a fulcrum point, then that's considered an anchor and will be prohibited. You can brace the putter grip against your wrist, like Matt Kuchar, and that will still be allowed. You can also still use the longer putters, but you have to freely swing the putter without it being against your body at a fulcrum point.

The rationale for the ban is a putting stroke is supposed to be a swing and without an anchoring point. I understand the rationale, but I wonder why the R&A and USGA waited so long to ban this style of putting if they felt that a putting stroke should be a swing. Former Tour Pro and past Ryder Captain, Paul Azinger, used the now-banned putting style in the 90's and the governing boards were silent for the past two decades.

Keegan Bradley was heckled by a spectator and called a cheater during Tiger's tournament on Sunday. Today the USGA release a statement that Keegan and others using that style are not cheaters and are allowed under the rules to have that putting stroke.

What to do if you use that putting style and are playing business-golf? Since anchor putting will be banned in 2016, you'll need to practice using a short putter. And when you play business-golf, you're not trying to shoot your personal best round. So I suggest if you're playing a client or prospect who leans toward being a traditionalist, I'd use your short putter. You don't want to give the impression or hint of being a cheater to a client or prospect. This way you avoid the possibility of damaging your business relationship.

If weather permits, go enjoy a round of winter golf!

Daly News

John Daly is in the news again, and it's not good.

He was playing in the Hong Kong Open and threw his putter into the trees. He was frustrated by the sound of camera shutters. The tournament director said it best, "Yes, the circumstances regarding crowd manners and behaviors will be considered, but when it all boils down there is still no excuse for throwing his putter."

I suspect the fans in the US are more considerate of golfers than in Hong Kong. But I can also sort of understand the fans in Hong Kong. If you've been there, then you know those folks never hear a second of silence. That town runs on 30 hour days with the hustle and bustle of life.

As the director said though Daly needed to restrain himself from blowing up. And, given his past, we know that's a challenge for him. Unfortunate situation for all, but golf does put a challenge on us to control our tempers. That's why I call golf an xray of the soul and a great business tool. Would you want a client that blew up that way on the course?

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my friends in the US!

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtxxEbu

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtxxEbu

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtxxEbu

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtxxEbu

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

"Yes, the circumstances regarding crowd manners and behavior will be considered, but when it all boils down there is still no excuse for throwing his putter,"

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

"Yes, the circumstances regarding crowd manners and behavior will be considered, but when it all boils down there is still no excuse for throwing his putter,"

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/presstent/2012/11/john-daly-will-be-fined-for-throwing-putter-at-hong-kong-open.html?xid=forecast111912_topstory3#ixzz2CgtqtAAz

Golfing Presidents

We all know tomorrow is Election Day. I plan to vote and hope the best candidate for the country and economy wins. To see other presidents who enjoy the game we all love, check out this link.

Congratulations to Condi Rice and Darla Moore!

Augusta National Golf Club has announced their first two female members.

Condi Rice, former Secretary of  State, is also a member of San Francisco Golf Club and Cypress Golf Club.

Darla Moore is a South Carolina financier.

Which Tees to Use?

The National Golf Foundation asked:

What method do you use most often to choose the yardage (set of tees) you will play from in a given round of golf?

Based on a total yardage I have in mind	45%
Based on the color I normally play	23%
Based on wind or weather	6%
Based on the ability of my weakest playing partner	9%
Based on the nature of the round (fun vs. a competitive)	5%
Based on how fast I want to play	0%
I play whatever tees my playing partners choose	12%

I was surprised by the responses and wondered if the responses would be the same if one was playing in a business-golf round.

The 23% who responded that they chose the tees based on the normal color that they play could have a rude awakening at a new course. There is no standard color for tees based on location, e.g. black for the tips, blue for back tees, white for the middle and red for the front tees. Some courses, especially newer courses, have new colors at different locations. If playing based solely on color, a person may end up playing from inappropriate tees for their game.

For the business golfer, the 12% had the best response which is to play whatever tees my playing partners choose. The one caveat is during a business golf round, you might be playing from tees that are more difficult for you than what your game can handle. In which case, you need to either play fast or pick up when need be, if your playing partners get impatient with you.

I'm playing more courses now, and since I'm not playing as much, I'll choose the yardage that I'm used to and even the tees slightly less than my usual. To choose a longer distance is too punishing for us, recreational and business golfers.

Which answer would you give? 

Tiger: The C-Word

I've followed Tiger's career from Day 1. The C-word for most of his career has been Closer. Except for his loss in the 2009 PGA Championship to Yang, if he had the lead going into a Major, he was the winner.

After watching him this year, I fear that the C-word is now Choker.

He reminds me now of Phil Mickelson. I was a fan of Phil's, but found it hard to cheer for him because of his foolish mistakes he'd make en route to losing the tournament that he should have won. The US Open, #18 at Pebble Beach, etc. So many times, you thought he's on his way to winning, and then he'd make one of his foolish decisions and lose.

Tiger has played great on Thursday and Friday of the Majors this year, and you think finally he's going to redeem himself... he's going to win a Major again.  Moving day arrives and Tiger produces just the opposite of what that day means. He's lost shots over the weekend this year. Instead of getting the Closer, we now get excuses. And is it me or is the Sunday red and black getting old?

Whether he can go from Choker to Closer again, we'll have to wait till next year.

A Golfer Gives Back

Of all professional sports, the PGA Tour is the largest fundraiser for nonprofits. In 2005, the PGA Tour reached $1 billion in total funds donated. I love that about golf.

In Minneapolis, one golfer decided to give back and played 100 holes in one day. He didn't ride a cart even though he was playing on a day of record-breaking heat.

Golf gives back in so many ways. Look for a way that you can do so!

Be Honest

Most golfers know the Rules state you can only carry 14 clubs in your bag. Have 15 clubs and you're penalized two strokes for every hole you had 15, maximum four-stroke penalty.

A European player had 15 clubs in his bag. He didn't know, but his caddy did. When the caddy discovered the extra club, he took the bag into the bushes and tried to hide it. I didn't make this up.

The other two players noticed the caddy disappeared in the bushes with the bag and asked what was up? Then the caddy admitted it. When tour officials discovered how egregious the caddy's behavior was, they DQ-ed the player. OUCH! Not going to be finding any looping job soon, I'd say.

Worst case of caddy behavior I've heard. If you've discovered you've broken a rule, be honest and don't make a bad situation worse.

New Golfers, Trust Your Instincts

Yesterday I met a friend for lunch who is a new golfer. She's a member of a nine-hole course, which is part of an exclusive community in Nevada.

We sat down and she immediately asked if everyone plays with the same length golf club. I said no, it depends on your height, length of arms, etc. She said she asked the head pro of her club if her driver is too long for her. He told her everyone swings the same length club. I said that's impossible and wrong.

My friend is probably only 5'1" or so. I said take your clubs to a local golf shop and get fitted with your clubs. Her driver was 3" too tall. I warned her that cutting the shaft will make the shaft stiffer, but let's get you hitting the ball on the sweetspot instead of the heel of the club and topping it most of the time. She can get custom clubs when she plays more.

So I have to wonder what the head pro was thinking when he gave her that information. Does he not care because she's a woman? Does he not know? If so, then he should have told her that he didn't know and referred her to someone else.

Frankly his inability or unwillingness to help her could have resulted in her leaving the game. She said she couldn't feel comfortable hitting the ball with her driver. It certainly wasn't her fault! She stood more than a foot away from the end of the club to even try to hit the ball.

So if you're a new golfer, trust your instincts about your golf game! If you get information from a so-called expert, then check and verify it. Every golfer should be trying to properly inform new golfers about the game and be encouraging of them to play.

My Tiger Prediction... I Was Half Right

After Tiger's victory at The Memorial, I predicted that he was back and he'd contend at the US Open.

He contended the first two days, but then sputtered along over the weekend. Watching Tiger now reminds me of watching Phil several years ago. I was a fan of Phil's, but then he'd make one of his risky decisions and lose the tournament. It was hard to root for him. I'm thinking of Winged Foot and going for the green on 18 at Pebble Beach.

Rooting for Tiger has become the same way. You see how he plays on Thursday and Friday and you think he's going to do it over the weekend. But it isn't so. Since he got his new swing and recovering from his injuries, this has now become common place. Maybe his nerves get to him now, or that new swing doesn't work when he's under pressure. I don't know what it is, but it's certainly not the Tiger of old who took the lead in a major and never looked back.

Nonetheless, it was great to see Webb Simpson win, albeit a bit anti-climatic. Would have loved to see a  playoff with him and McDowell, but all in all a great Open. I played Olympic a few years ago and it killed me then. With the new greens and that tall, thick rough, I can only imagine how painful it was to play.

And, if you're a financial advisor, you had to be cheering on Michael Allen. A retired stock broker, who has been a member of Olympic Club for decades. He shot an eagle on the first day. If you're an advisor and not using golf, you're missing out on the business action on the course.

It's the first day of summer and hope you have your next round in your calendar!

Sergio, Grow Up!

I'm watching the US Open, of course. Second to the Masters, it's a favorite major because it's our nation's tournament and amateurs are playing.

On a par 3 hole today, Sergio teed off and then we heard a smack on the television. It was Sergio destroying the ESPN microphone at the tee box with his club. Of course, he can afford to pay for a replacement and maybe a fine imposed by the USGA, or maybe even the PGA.

Sergio, you play a game and have made MILLIONS from doing so. The majority of your fans don't earn in a year what you make in a top-10 finish at a golf tournament. Grow up! You apparently don't believe you can win a major like you declared at the Masters. Save the fans of the game from your antics. Between spitting in a hole at Augusta, your recent club toss and today's antics, your temper tantrums on the course are getting old. Go see a sports psychologist and gain some maturity. Otherwise, quit playing if you're so miserable on the course.

Organic Cotton Rocks

I received a Criquet 100% organic cotton women's golf shirt to review. I chose the Ruby Red Lady's Player Shirt and I liked it! It has some fine detail stitching and it was comfortable to wear. Wore it twice. Once under a jacket and the other time without one. Both times it was easy to make a turn and didn't bunch up at the sleeves. It tapers from the shoulders to the waist, so more flattering than a baggy polo shirt.

Because it's made out of organic cotton, I didn't know if it would be more wrinkled after washing or more difficult to iron. There were no additional wrinkles and the wrinkles ironed out easily. It might have shrunk slightly since it became more snug in the shoulders. I also like the feel of the fabric; smooth to the hand, not scratchy.

Overall, if you want an organic cotton shirt, check out Criquet!

Mickelson Texts Commish During Memorial

Phil Mickelson dropped out of the Memorial after the 1st round claiming mental fatigue.

Now we hear that his group was disturbed by the camera clicks of cell phones. He and his playing partners had to back off several times during the round. Phil text-ed Commissioner Finchem complaining about the gallery and lack of cell phone control by the PGA Tour and tournament officials.

For tournament-host Nicklaus, a helicopter distracted him during the 1960 U.S. Open, which caused him to three putt. Unfortunately for players today it's a combo of relatively inexpensive technology and lack of consideration. The former will be with us forever and unfortunately most likely the latter.

He's Baaaaccckkk!

Tiger won Jack Nicklaus' Memorial today.

He could play poorly after this win, like he did after winning Arnie's tournament in March. I suspect though that he'll contend at the US Open. This win was different. It reminded me of Tiger pre-scandal and the emasculation that followed.

His chip in at 16 was vintage Tiger. And the gallery responded by releasing roars that have been pent up for 2 1/2 years. Rory didn't have a chance after that.

And when he sunk the birdie putt on 18, it was Tiger announcing he was back. Good for him and good for golf. We all have felt the lull in the game since he's been absent from contention. Frankly it was painful to watch him play.

Here's to having an exciting US Open!

Golf a Woman's Key To Competing In the Workplace?

Let me start with saying I'm not suggesting that if you're a woman that you must play golf to be successful. Of course, that's not true and there are many women who are successful without stepping on a golf course.

If your clients, prospects, supervisors, decision-makers that you deal with play golf, however, then I believe you're short-changing yourself by not playing golf. If these important folks in your life enjoy this game and have others in their life who enjoy the game, who do you think they're more likely going to want to spend time with and where? It's the golf course, most likely.

And besides, what's so wrong with being on most beautiful golf courses to do some business and seal some deals. Deals won't be made because you're an excellent business golfer. They'll do a deal with you because they'll discover that they like you, enjoy your company, and how you handle yourself on the golf course.

If you're thinking there is no way you'd play golf, please let me know and tell me why. Let's talk and see if I might give you another perspective on the game.

Former Steelers' QB Kordell Stewart Retires

I will never forget playing at Cherokee Town & Country Club outside of Atlanta, GA. I was there to speak at Deloitte and arrived early, so I could play Cherokee. I was headed out of the Clubhouse when I opened the door for two gentlemen walking behind me. As I looked behind while holding the door open, I did a double take because it was Kordell Stewart and Jerome Bettis, both of the Steelers.

That in itself wasn't the unusual  part. What was unusual is two weeks earlier I was at Pebble Beach and they were teeing off two groups ahead of me. I mentioned that I saw them there and they were both surprised that I would know that as we stood at a local country club in Georgia.

I ended up playing with them after talking to Kordell as we hit balls at the range. I remember asking if he'd consider joining the Raiders, and he said he didn't think so. I also remember him correcting me when I said he was retired. He said he wasn't yet. Today, he officially did so. I'm not sure the ramifications of doing so, but I'm sure there must be a reason for him.

The two were gentlemen and I thoroughly enjoyed the round with them. I know they were betting, but Kordell wouldn't tell me the stakes. I'm sure it was more than for just a round of drinks. I hope our paths cross again, and would enjoy another round with them.

Favorite Foursome

On Monday, I got to play with my favorite foursome: my 85 year-young Dad, niece, and nephew. Given that time is passing for each of us, I realize how much I cherish each time we go out to play.

My niece just graduated from University of Notre Dame and will be working at Deloitte in San Francisco. You can be assured she'll be using golf for business. Even if not playing with clients, she'll be able to talk the other language of business.

My nephew graduates from high school next Friday and then will be headed to Marquette University.

As you can imagine, I can't wait for see what the future brings for both of them and how they handle the good and not-go-good that may come along in their lives. Both are excellent golfers. Ryan is a 1.4 index and Melissa is still a single digit. I know that their time on the golf course has affected their personality, temperament, character and more. That's the beauty of golf. It's not just a game; it's so much more. It's time spent with loved ones, lessons learned, and a sense of generosity that I can't imagine experiencing in any other sport. 

Then, there is my dad. Melissa and I were paired against Ryan and my dad. We were two up with two to go, and my dad sank clutch putts on both holes to tie our match. He was thrilled and the three of us were even more ecstatic for him.Golf is my dad's therapy and it energizes him more than anything I've seen him do.

Who is in your favorite foursome? I am going to enjoy these more than ever, regardless of how I play.

More than a Snake

I wrote a post recently about not liking snakes. I won't search for a ball in tall grass if I think snakes are a possibility.

But a snake certainly is better than a plane door that fell onto the 16th fairway of a Florida course.

It's all a matter of perspective... I'd take a snake or errant little ball over a plane door any day.

Be safe and enjoy your Memorial Day weekend! A big thank you to the servicemen and women who lost their lives protecting our rights and liberties and those who are currently protecting us!

Don't Pull a Na

If you've been watching The Players, then you've seen Kevin Na's set up and his inability to hit the ball after six to eight waggles. The announcers have sympathized with his malady and praised how he's playing through it to be the 4th round leader.

I hope announcers tell viewers today that it's not acceptable in every day recreational, and especially business-golf, rounds. I was empathetic with Na and his struggles until I heard his post-round interview. He seems to have a routine with those waggles. First, a half waggle, then a longer waggle, and then another half waggle and longer waggle. If he can't pull the trigger after the sixth waggle, then the whiff.

I know about the benefits of having routines, but I didn't know it's even good to incorporate idiosyncrasies or whatever the mental game professionals call Na's problem.

I, too, am impressed how well he can hit the ball after his routine, but I hope viewers at home don't suddenly think it's okay to take that much time over the ball. In a business golf round, I know your playing partners will be rolling their eyes and snickering. Be assured that you'll not make friends or clients if you have Na's routine, even if you apologize profusely as Na has done.

And, how do you handle it if you have to play with Na or someone like him? I'd look away and just wait to look for his ball in the air after I hear ball contact. Zach Johnson declined interviews after his round with Na, but I hope Matt Kuchar talked to Zach and got tips on how to handle the distraction. I'm sure it's nothing most of the pros have encountered before, except maybe in Pro-Ams.

I look forward to watching the final round! Enjoy and hope you have a great Mother's Day!

Scorecards

It was a beautiful afternoon and I was fortunate to be able to play at a local mid-upscale public course. My parents and I were in two different carts and I realized when we're in the middle of the hole that neither cart had a scorecard on the cart. I thought we would pick up a card in box that one typically finds on the second hole, but there wasn't one. I ended up having to call the pro shop to ask them to send out someone and bring us two scorecards. A young man came out, but unfortunately brought out only one card.

Maybe I'm spoiled after playing at a private club for all of the years, but for customer service sake, can't the cart folks put cards and pencils on the carts? I play another public course and that course doesn't put cards on carts either.

If it's too labor intensive, then I'd think it would behoove them to make sure pro shop and cart staffs remind players to get a scorecard. Or, when checking in, the pro shop give a scorecard. If the staff aren't going to do that, then at least have the box of scorecard and pencils on the second tee.

Seems to me that I'm not the only one who has had to call the pro shop to ask for a scorecard. Am I asking for too much? Would love to hear your experiences with cards.

It's Just a Golf Ball

When playing at unfamiliar courses, I immediately check out the terrain. I'm not thinking course management and planning my shots. I'm assessing the threat level. Threat level? Yes, I'm checking out whether snakes and alligators are scoping me out as their prey.

Depending on locale, I'll ask members of my foursome and golf course staff whether I need to worry about snakes and alligators. If they say yes, then I declare to my group that I won't help look for their balls or mine.

It's just a golf ball... it may be a Pro V1 and a $4 golf ball, but it's absolutely a worthy investment for me to walk away from a ball if I think I'll be in danger looking for it. This applies whether I'm playing in a tournament or not. Call me chicken, and I'll proudly accept that label.

In Florida, a man was bitten by an alligator while searching near a pond for his ball. He said he was three feet from his death as the alligator dragged him into the lake. Fortunately for him, the alligator decided to release him. I can't imagine the terror that man felt.

Folks, it's not worth it; it's just a golf ball.
 

Theft at Historic Aronimink Golf Club

Times are tough... In 25 years of following golf, I've never heard of a theft of golf balls from a golf course pond. But it happened today at the famed and historic Aronimink Golf Club. Check out the story here.

New Low Update

In my post, New Low for Some Golfers, I shared how a man was stabbed in the leg by someone in the group ahead. The confrontation was over whether to let the victim and his group through on a par-3.

The update is the man may lose his leg. It sounds like he's lucky he didn't bleed to death because his femoral artery was punctured.

But, really? Was not letting a group play through worth a man's leg? May be more to this story, but the situation certainly got out of hand.

Good luck to the victim and hope he is able to heal.

Sergio Kept Playing

After a 12 on a par-4 hole, I give Sergio credit for staying in the game. He ended up shooting five birdies after the 12.

I suspect that's the difference between pros and amateurs; they can mentally re-focus quickly and keep playing.

When I was studying for the Bar exam, I learned a saying, "Hit it and move on!" I try to apply it to my game, but...

Happens Even to the Pros

Sergio Garcia started the round with an eagle at Doral today. Then, he shot a 12 on a par-4 hole.

He has my sympathies. Most of us have done it where we blow up on a hole. It will be interesting to watch how he responds. Throw the rest of the round away or keep fighting until he sinks his final putt on 18?

Congrats Hunter!

This year is the Ryder Cup, and it was great to see America's Hunter Mahan defeat Rory McIlroy in today's final match at WGC-Accenture's Match Play event. It's just start of the season, but I figure as much momentum as we can build before the two teams meet at Medinah CC is only a good thing.

Kudos also to Mark Wilson who beat Lee Westwood in the consolation match. Either McIlroy or Westwood would have been World's #1 men's golfer with a victory in the desert, but it wasn't to be this week.

Golfer Sues Club for Lowering His Handicap

A golfer has sued his club because he claims it lowered his handicap index by 7.7 strokes over a five-year span. He's suing the club for defamation because he said it made him look like a cheater.

Unfortunately the article doesn't elaborate on why the club lowered his handicap. It's possible that the club's handicap chair believed he didn't post his scores each time he played, and posted for him. Those scores must have been pretty low if it resulted in lowering his index by 7.7 strokes.

The golfer's comment that he went to competitions and there would be no one there was an interesting one. He claims it's because his friends didn't play with him. Or, it could be they all knew he was a sandbagger and they felt why bother playing if the guy is going to win all of the time.

When I was a member at a club, my dad and I would play in a couple's tournament every Sunday. When the same couple won every week for about 3-4 weeks in a row, we decided what was the point in entering. We can't beat "statistical anomalies"!

This case makes me wonder... if he is guilty of sandbagging, why would he sue, and if he's not guilty, why bother suing and what took him so long to sue. The lowering of his index occurred from 1999-2004.

Bradley's Apology for Spitting

I've written a couple of times about my reaction to seeing golfers spit, especially on the green.

PGA Tour's rising start has apologized for his spitting at Riviera Country Club last week.

Good of him to do so. It's really an unattractive habit.

Tiger's Gamesmanship

I watched Phil's interview with the press after his impressive blowout of Tiger yesterday at Pebble.

The best question was did Butch Harmon, Phil's swing coach and Tiger's former swing coach, tell Phil some of Tiger's gamesmanship tactics. Phil sheepishly replied with a grin, "Yes, possibly."

Given Phil's spanking of Tiger yesterday, it would appear Butch told Phil a lot of his secrets. I thought it was odd that Phil putted out first on 18th, since the tournament winner usually putts last so he can get all of the applause and end the tourney with a climax. Phil though putted out.

Tiger was then left with a 3-foot putt and he missed it so badly that it left him a 5-footer coming back. As they say, turnabout is fair play.

I'm not a fan of gamesmanship, and have had it done to me for about seven holes. It made me more focused and resulted in a sweeter win for me. And, if a player has to resort to that kind of tactics, well, it says a lot about that person. Or I should say, it says how little that person is.

New Low for Some Golfers

One thing I've always enjoyed about golf is the decorum and etiquette among the golfers. There is an odd sense of being insulated while on the course from the ugliness of the real world.

But, some golfers in Fort Worth, TX brought the real world onto a local golf couhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifrse. A threesome wanted to play through a slow foursome. One of the members of the threesome got into verbal altercation with a member of the slow group and it turned physical. Someone in the foursome stabbed him with a broken club and because of the amount of blood loss, he could lose his leg. Click here for the article.

How sad that slow play could cause such damage. The golfers in both groups need a reality check about what's important in life. Playing through and speeding up play aren't worth a man's leg.

As golfers, we can do better.

Sunflower Seeds on the Green

The weather in the Bay Area has been unusually dry this year. I got to play golf two weeks in a row. The first course had sunflower seed shells fairly close to the hole. The second time I played, the sunflower-seed enjoyer was a stranger in my group that the pro shop put with my threesome.

The first week, the sunflower seeds looked fairly moist, so the shell spitter was likely a few groups ahead. I have to say it was a bit gross to have to deal with the shells. At least the guy in my group was "considerate" enough to spit the shells away from the hole and he did this may be only for the first few holes. He stopped having them by the middle of the round.

I enjoy sunflower seeds too, but I wouldn't think of spitting them onto the green. If you enjoy those seeds, have a cup that you can spit the seeds into. That way, every one can enjoy a shell-free round of golf!

Temper Tantrums: Tennis Pros v. Golf Pros

2012's golf and tennis seasons have started. The first two PGA Tour events were in Hawaii and the first major for tennis, the Australian Open, just started this week.

Maybe golfers in HI were laid back with their mai tais, hula dancers, and roasted pork. In contrast, one tennis pro in Australia had a four-racket meltdown.

I've seen a golfer break a club or throw their club a la Sergio Garcia in my last post, but I don't think I've ever seen a pro golfer break four clubs. I guess that's one advantage of golf over tennis... if you want to break something, you have up to 14 clubs to break:)

Garcia Loses It

Sergio Garcia apparently has an anger management problem. I didn't see it, but I heard about his spitting into the cup after missing a putt. That's beyond gross and childish.

His latest temper tantrum is tossing his club into the water after pulling his shot 20 yards on a par-3 hole.

You can watch it here.

I don't care how poorly you happen to be playing, that's inexcusable. Do that in front of a client, and you can certainly kiss that client good-bye.

Happy Holidays to you and yours! May your golf rounds in 2012 be filled with birdies and pars!!!

Monkey Off His Back

Tiger Woods finally won a tournament. It happens to be his own tournament where he's the host and his Tiger Woods Foundation is a benefactor. His win doesn't just benefit him and his foundation though. It benefits the game of golf and even his competitors are hopeful that Tiger is back to his past form. McIlroy and Westwood both hope to compete against Tiger when his game is back on top.

I don't know how to explain it, but when Tiger is in contention, golf is fun to watch. We've watched two years of golf without him, and it's just not the same without him putting for a win in his red shirt, black pants outfit. As to those who are complaining about his white shoes on Sunday, I don't think he cares. He got his "W" and I suspect he was more concerned about getting that than making a fashion statement.

Welcome back, Tiger, and I hope to see the same in 2012!

Congratulations USA Team!

My favorite tournaments include The Masters, Ryder Cup, and Presidents Cup. After the loss in Wales of the Ryder Cup, I was thrilled to see the Americans win the Presidents Cup.

Even though I like Greg Norman, Adam Scott, Ernie Els, and others on the International team, I will always cheer on the Americans. Frankly I know golf fans that seem to always choose the other team, whether the Europeans or Internationals. I've never understood if you were born in America, why you wouldn't root for the Americans? This victory is especially needed during our country's economic tumult, involvement in wars, and general malaise.

It was nice to see the Americans' fighting spirit and the closeness among the team.
Both the rookies and veterans alike did well. Tiger certainly had to make everyone pause and think he might break Jack's record of 18 Majors. Maybe still too soon to say that, but his game certainly looks better than we've seen in quite awhile.

Congrats Freddie, John Cook, proud father Jay Haas, and the members of the US team!!!

The Swinger

Two Sports Illustrated writers, Michael Bamberger and Alan Shipnuck, have written "The Swinger" based on Tiger Woods' life since hitting the fire hydrant nearly two years ago.

It's fiction, yet it makes you wonder how much is based on truth, such as the drug test results and the number of women that Tiger considered his conquests. Given who they have offended, I wonder if writing it was worth losing access to those people and various places.

For a winter golf read, it's mindless entertainment. Keeps your head in the game of golf at least.

My peeve though is the ending. If someone can tell me what the last sentence is referring to, I'd appreciate it. As it stands now, I'm just annoyed that I have no idea what it's referencing.

Enjoy!

Changes to Several Rules

The USGA announced a couple of changes to the Rules. http://bit.ly/sfMRFi

One change makes a lot of sense, which is if you address the ball (take your stance and touch your club on the ground behind or in front of the ball) and the ball slightly moves without you touching it with your club, then that's no longer a penalty. You now just hit it where it settles.

They also changed the definition of address. It's now just when you place your club in front or behind the ball. You no longer need to take a stance to be considered addressing the club.

Ready Golf - What It Is and What It Isn't

I know it's been a while since I last wrote. I've had the stuffing kicked out of me with things going on in my life. I'm coming out of it now and had to share this story.

Yesterday a friend and her group were behind the field of a tournament. Because the course wanted the tournament to have a head start, there was about a hole in between her foursome and the last group of the field. As her group was putting out, she saw a twosome in a cart cut in front of her group and tee off on her next hole a par-3.

She drove up to them as they were approaching their balls on the green, and asked what they were doing. She explained that they went off behind the tournament and they weren't holding up the field. She asked them to either mark or pick up, but her group would be teeing off and finishing the hole first.

The twosome of 20-somethings defended their rudeness by saying they were playing ready golf. As you can imagine, that didn't work for my friend.

So to be clear, ready golf is among members of your foursome. Whomever is ready to hit next, should hit, rather than wait for the player farthest from the hole to hit. It is certainly NOT a concept to be applied between foursomes, like these youths tried to pull.

It's simply rude to cut in front of a group that is keeping up. And, to use a concept of golf incorrectly, shows their ignorance or a dismal attempt to bluff my friend.

Hope you can get out and play more golf before the change in the seasons!

Power Broker-Golfers in DC

Check out the latest ranking of power golfers in D.C.: http://bitURL.net/bjsu

Congratulations to two women who are on this list: Linda Divall, 7th, and Jean Statler, T-43. Wish there were more women, but at least two made it.

I can only imagine the stories they have about playing golf for business as a women. And, I wonder what they'd say about how golf has helped their careers.

Ladies, get golfing!

Get Ready for a Great 2011!

Hi Everyone,

This post will be the most personal one I've ever written. I know I've disappeared for most of the year. As a member of a country club in the Bay Area, I took up the challenge in mid-May to stop the Board of the club from making some foolish mistakes in renovating the beautiful, classic "Golden Age" course I've played for the last 20 years. The list of mistakes are numerous, and the fight to save the club has become futile.

Because I no longer wish to contribute to the destruction of the club, I have decided to leave the club at the end of this year. I do so with sadness because I have so many fond memories on the course: three separate holes-in-ones, countless rounds with my father, my niece, and my nephew, and countless rounds with friends that I'll miss and hope we'll continue playing together elsewhere.

It's been a tough year staying focused on business (although I did launch my Golf to the Green Celebrity Interviews) and this coming year looks like a tough one as well given that my nearly 13-year old Cocker Spaniel, Reggie, has been initially diagnosed with cancer. I learned yesterday, on my birthday no less.

I can't tell you the tail spin it has put me in. The sadness, feeling of helplessness, and fear for my Reggie. We'll know more on Wednesday or Thursday when his biopsy results come in. If you believe in the power of prayers and positive thoughts, please send some his way. Reggie and I thank you for doing so. My friend, who was helping me prepare the book proposal for my business golf book, On Course for Business, found Reg darting across a busy street near the golf course and took an hour to catch him. She brought him to my house, and we had a bumpy start, but the rest is history.

I was online this morning and saw a post for a vision board software. Don't know if you have ever created a vision board where you cut out magazine pictures and post them on a board. I've done it in the past, and was amazed when I looked at how many of the pictures became a reality in my life... including Reggie.

Check it out: http://bit.ly/g7AcJA I know with what's going to go on with Reg, I'm going to need help staying focused on my goals for 2011. I have several exciting projects in the works that I look forward to sharing next year, and will need to keep moving forward. What I like about this software is you can play the video of your vision board on your computer, iPad, smartphone, or post a copy of your vision board on the wall of your office. I plan to play my vision board video on my iPhone when I wake up and before I go to sleep. If you want to lower your handicap, put it on your vision board.

I hope you have a joyful Holiday Season and a Happy and Healthy 2011! Tell those you love that you do so, and stay healthy.

Best regards and pars,
Suzanne

Nicklaus and Annika versus Norman and Ochoa

Wouldn't that be a great match to watch in some Skins format or some other tournament? Unfortunately it's not a match on the golf course that is happening any time soon.

It is about a golf course though in Rio de Janerio, the host of the 2016 Olympics. The two pairs are competing for the design of the golf course to be played when golf is officially back in the Olympics. The Olympic committee though hasn't decided whether it will use an existing course or decide to build a new course.

Annika and I spoke about the 2016 Olympics when I interviewed her in my Golf to the Green Celebrity Interviews. I enjoyed talking with her about what she thinks about playing golf for business (rather than as her business) and what she's been doing since leaving golf. I invite you to listen in to our interview!

GM as Tournament Sponsor

There are rumblings that GM is going to be named as sponsor of the Doral tournament. Last year was the first year that GM wasn't a sponsor of a golf tournament in decades.

GM will be using its Cadillac brand, which makes sense as it markets to high worth folks, and those folks play golf.

It's good to see a few companies coming back to golf as sponsors. Good for the game and I hope it means a positive outlook for the US economy.

Nick Watney Star Struck

Nick Watney must have people asking for his autograph all of the time now that he's won twice on the PGA Tour. At Justin Timberlake's Shriner Hospital Open tournament in Vegas though, Watney is the one that's star struck.

Nick was seen getting Jerry Rice's autograph on his cap and golf ball. As a native Northern Californian, Watney thinks Rice is the greatest wide receiver (won't get many arguments) and was thrilled to get Rice's autograph.

After speaking with Jerry for my Golf to the Green Celebrity Interviews, I'm sure Jerry was thrilled to give Watney his autograph. Rice is a golf addict and respects the athleticism that golf requires. I found him humble and a delight to talk with.

Check out the four short videos that I give you on business golf, and then you'll get a chance to hear what Jerry has to say about playing golf.

Golf Travel Bag Alert

If you're flying to play some golf, you use a golf travel bag and check-in you bag. You have your clubs, GPS, golf balls, shoes, umbrella possibly, tees, and other golf paraphernalia. If you have room, you might put in a pair of tennis shoes and other items to fill your bag.

If you put in non-golf shoes though, you'll be breaking airline rules about what can be in a golf bag. You can only have one pair of golf shoes apparently. And, if you won a driver and now have 15 clubs in your golf bag, that's also breaking the rules. So much for winning... I suppose you'd need to send the club home separately or be charged extra by the airline.

Let's hope most agents don't check our golf bags so carefully. It's sure getting difficult to fly unfortunately.

Fore Warning!

During my presentations to golfers, especially new golfers, I emphasize the importance of yelling, "FORE!!!" if an errant shot may hit someone.

A 69-year old man in Southern California was hit on the head with a golf ball, and nine days later he died of the injury. It's a serious matter to yell fore if someone may possibly get hit, and it's important to protect your head if others are yelling fore near you.

If you're part of a foursome and the player doesn't yell fore when he or she should, then you should shout it if you think someone is in danger. And, remember, to really shout. It does the folks in danger no good, if only those on the tee can hear you.

Be careful and play smart!

Start Your Own Business Golf Networking Group

I read a story about a Florida-based financial advisor who started her own business golf networking group. What a great idea! Get other passionate golfers to play golf together to build their business relationships and increase their bottom line. As we go into end-of-year planning, think about whether you can do this, and start planting the seeds for a spring event. Let me know if you decide to do this. It could be lots of fun!

Golf Channel's Rymer's Ideas to Improve Golf

Charlie Rymer has come up with his ten ways to change the game of golf. You can find it here.

I like some of them, such as simplifying the rules for amateurs, preventing sandbaggers, having 3-, 6-, and 12-hole loops, and some other ideas. He thought amateurs should also have different size holes, like a 10" hole. I'm not sure if I can along with that size hole. I understand where he's coming from though, but that seems a bit much.

What do you think of Rymer's ideas?

Are You America's Greatest Putter?

On September 24-30, 2011 at The Crossings at Carlsbad, in sunny Carlsbad, California, you can compete for the title of America's Greatest Putter. It's going to be held on the practice putting green of The Crossings at Carlsbad, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean.

So it's a little less than a year away, and if you're a great putter, why not?! It's a $100 entry fee only. Invite a client, and prepare for a fun time. Combine it with a trip to TaylorMade or Callaway's fitting centers as well.

Catching Up and Boxgroove.com

Where have I been these last few months? I became very involved with my golf club and fighting against the board's selection of a golf course architect and the scope of renovations to the club. I can go on, but let's just say it's amazing how people think (or don't think), and what people are willing to fight for (or not fight for). I'll be glad to see my club in existence in several years. Several members and I are not too optimistic.

On another note about private clubs, there is a company, called Boxgroove (http://www.boxgroove.com). It's an interesting service where private clubs join its network. So, even though you're not a member of the private club, you can play it as a member of Boxgroove. In this economy, it makes sense for private clubs to open some play to the public. Who knows someone playing the course may like it so much, they'll join as a result.

Phil's Advice to Less Experienced Players

Phil Mickelson gives great advice to less experienced players. Play with better players to improve your game. Don't be afraid. http://budurl.com/5djn

I'm not a great golfer, and my handicap is lower than most of the women at my club. I have said to several of them that we should play together. They usually reply that they wouldn't play with me because "I'm too good." Or, I'll make them nervous.

I tell them I don't care how you play as long as you can keep up, know your etiquette, and are fun. I instead tell them it's better for their game because they'll see a different tempo or might learn from watching what I or another better player do on the course.

I like it that Phil admits he plays better with Tiger in the field. Should be a good Memorial tournament.

Rice DQ-ed

Jerry Rice was disqualified today because his caddie used a rangefinder. http://budurl.com/sevq. I'm disappointed for him and am not surprised at his comments. He took ownership for the error, "a rookie mistake that I made." I'm glad he didn't blame it on his caddie or say his caddie should have known better.

It also sounds like he's no longer going to play on the Nationwide Tour. "Because I can't commit to golf the way I want to, this is probably my last Nationwide Tour event," Rice said. "These guys, they're working their butts off and they deserve to be out here."

I worked with his agent for three months to find time to do our interview. I knew where each of them were by following their Twitter posts. During that time, he was going to the Super Bowl, going to a DeBartolo wedding, getting inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, doing an event for Gillette, practicing for his first tournament, and I'm sure many other events that I didn't know about. I certainly understand why he doesn't have the time to commit to the game.

And he was well aware that he was taking another pro player's spot in the field. He wanted to do well because of it. As I said yesterday, I have no doubt if he had the time to commit to golf, he'd make the cut on the Nationwide Tour at some point. Remember that this is the guy that dropped so many balls in his rookie year and was seen crying in front of his bench after a game. He works hard and after speaking with him, I can see why he broke so many records on the NFL.

Jerry, I hope you finish this weekend and play as a celebrity.

Pebble Beach is Ready for the US Open

The US Open is going to be played at Pebble Beach on June 14-20th. I've played Pebble twice and look forward to seeing the course and all of its changes. Check out the changes and the beautiful pics: http://budurl.com/4wt2

Are you going to Pebble to watch the tournament? I have gone to Pebble and Olympic to watch the big tournaments. Everyone should see the pros hit balls live... it's so different than on t.v.. You get to hear the sound of a sweet shot and see how fast the ball comes off the clubface. But it's hard to follow your favorite player and get a good view. There's an excitement in the air though that's like no other. Can only imagine what it's like at The Masters.

Mark your calendars!

Jerry Rice's Woes on the Course

Living in the Bay Area, I was a fan of Jerry Rice's when he played for both the 49ers and the Raiders. He was amazing to watch as he caught balls and then ran for more yards after the catch than any other receiver. Some say he's the best football player ever and who can argue with that? In August, he's going to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility.

Jerry has gone pro as a golfer. He played locally in the Fresh Express Classic, a Nationwide Tournament, and finished second to last. This weekend he's playing in South Carolina, and shot a 92 in the opening round of the BMW Charity Pro-Am.

He's gotten some criticism about taking a burgeoning, hard-working pro's spot in tournaments. When I spoke to him for my latest product, he was aware that people might feel that way, and was sincere in his desire to make the cut. A friend played with him at the Fresh Express Pro-Am, and said he can work the ball, hits shots pretty pure, but his putter isn't quite at the pro level.


After talking with him, I have no doubt that he'll make the cut of a pro tournament eventually. He's on a steep learning curve; yet with his dedication, work ethic, determination, and pure love of the game, I know he can do it.

If you're wondering how it was to talk with him, there was not an ounce of ego or arrogance. We met a few weeks after we talked, and he gave me a kiss and a hug at the Pairings Party. He's a gentleman and a self-avowed addict of the game! Keep positive, Jerry!

Tips to Avoid Slow Play

I found an article about how to speed up your play. Check it out at: http://budurl.com/lkk6

I have a couple of additional tips. First, limit your practice swings to 1-2. I've stood and watched people take 3-4 practice swings and I'm sure one of those would have been a better shot than their actual (and eventual) swing.

Second, don't stand over the ball at address for too long. I played behind a guy who stood over the ball and took the term "address" to a whole other level. My playing partners started counting how long his address was and it was 20-30 seconds before he hit the ball. You're familiar with that saying, "Paralysis by analysis." It doesn't help you stay relaxed and have a smooth swing, if you're standing like a statue before you take your swing.

Slow play is very detrimental to the game. When people complain they don't have time to play golf, slow play is a contributing factor. It's unnecessary and you really don't make friends with your playing partners if you play slowly and hold your group up.

I'm not saying you have to run through the course, but if you follow these tips, you should speed up your play. Play well and play more!

Life Plays Out on the Course

My handicap index has been the highest its been in a long time. I was at a low of 9.9 after last year's season, and I'm starting this season at 13.0. I've been busy with my latest project and distracted by working with vendors (some great and some horrible). And, my life has showed up on the golf course. Scoring higher, hitting poor shots, and just distracted with everything that was going on. Since the project has been completed, I can thankfully say my game is back to normal more or less.

Look at what's been going on with Tiger. If you watched Tiger in his last two tournaments, you've seen shots that we've never seen before from him--pop ups with a 3-wood, missing 2 footers, and even not making the cut. He's obviously very distracted with his life right now. The latest being his bulging disk in his neck (which I can empathize with him because I have one too) and his long-time swing coach, Hank Haney, resigned today.

The lesson I'm learning from my poor play these last few months is I need to be not so hard on myself when I'm not playing well. Besides weather and wet conditions being a factor with some high scores, I was also not focused on my golf game. Now that things have calmed, I'm swinging more smoothly and slower, and suddenly hitting the ball well again.

So if you've got stuff going on in your life, and your game isn't its usual best right now, be understanding and look forward to the days of playing well again when things settle down.

Play well and play often!

Lessons from Playing in a Golf Tournament

I played in a two-day tournament on Monday and Tuesday and it was an eye-opener for two reasons.

First, the Board at my club is currently holding a vote for a proposal to re-do the golf course. I can't tell you more, except new greens are included in it because the Board hasn't told us specifically what they plan to change. Members are told that the course is in poor condition and we need to take out up to a $4.5 million loan to fix it.

The first course I played on the greens and fairways were in worse condition than my course. Do you know the artist, Jackson Pollack? He was a famous painter who threw multiple colors on the canvas off of his brushes. So, his art work had lots of dots on it. Those were the greens we played on. Obviously the greens are badly diseased and were in much poorer condition than my course. The fairways were also not in better shape than my course. I'm sure the initiation fee for that course is multiple folds higher than at my course, so it was great to be able to compare what we have and what we're told we have as a course.

The second thing that I learned is to always check the ball before you hit it. My playing partner and I played with two other women from another team. On a long par-5, we each had to hit three blind shots. On the approach shot, the three other gals hit their balls and I hit the ball closest to the green. I assumed it was mine since the others hit a ball.

Unfortunately, I hit the ball of the other gal's ball. I discovered that we hit the wrong ball when I marked what I thought was my ball on the green. So, we marked our balls, and then went back to hit where each of our original balls were, and played both balls out. We both had a two-stroke penalty for hitting the wrong ball.

I learned my lesson! I have to check my ball as well, and not assume it's mine because it's the only one left.

My team didn't win anything, but it was fun and a definite learning experience!

A Strange Day of Golf

I played with my most of my usual Sunday playing partners: my dad, who is 82 and still walks our hilly course, a dear friend, and her husband. He's not played with us as often over the years. I'm not sure why, except in the past a lot of bickering on the course occurred between them.

Today all went well until the 16th hole. My friend's husband hit several bad shots in a row, and pulled his final shot left toward the clubhouse. Yes, it was his final shot because he then walked across the 14th fairway to the edge of the fairway on the 18th.

None of us knew why he left in the middle of the hole. Was he upset that we didn't help look for his ball? His wife and my dad said the ball was in clear view. Was he not feeling well? Was he tired? We didn't know until we reached the green on the 18th. He explained that his left knee was giving out, so he didn't want to play anymore. That was understandable, but it would have been nice of him to tell us.

We then went into the clubhouse and saw the final hole of the Verizon Heritage tournament. On the playoff hole, Brian Davis hit his approach shot into the shore and his ball was on the sand with weeds and reeds around it. He took his club back and hit one of the reeds, and got the ball onto the green. Immediately though he called the rules official and explained what had happened.

Because the reed wasn't growing, it was considered a loose impediment and he was assessed a two-stroke penalty under Rule 13-4 for hitting a loose impediment during his back swing in a water hazard.

For Brian Davis to call a penalty on himself was admirable. He might not have won today's tournament, but he certainly won a lot of respect from his competitors and golf fans alike.

Lightening Strikes Twice on Same Hole, Three Years Apart

The Verizon Heritage Tournament started today and Jerry Kelly got a hole in one on the same hole that he did three years ago. Talk about feeling confident on a particular hole and swinging with mojo. Good for Kelly. I always enjoy watching his easy going demeanor on the course. He looks like he's having fun on the course. Good luck, Jerry!

Congratulations, Phil!

I watched the final round of The Masters today and had conflicting emotions. I wanted Tiger to do well, if not win, but after watching his first few shots, I figured there would be no way. I also wanted K.J. Choi and Anthony Kim to do well. Finally, I wanted Phil to win over Lee Westwood. Westwood's complaining about Boo Weekly's encouraging the home team to cheer during the Ryder Cup seemed a bit of childish whining.

My conflict was I'm not a huge fan of Phil's because of his playing style. Even today I kept wondering if we'd have Winged Foot II with his punch shots out of the woods, and hitting driver when he didn't have to. Yet, he could pull those shots off today, like the one on 13 off pine needles and between the trees.

After Phil sunk his birdie putt for his third green jacket, I watched him hug his wife, Amy, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. It was then I knew I was happy for him. With a tear or two running down his face, he hugged her tightly. That's when I was glad Tiger didn't win. Elin wasn't even at The Masters this year, and there certainly wouldn't have been such a touching scene.

Tiger says he felt "entitled" to cheat on his wife with up to 15 mistresses. When he first got engaged, I questioned why he was even getting married. He was so focused on breaking Nicklaus's record for Majors, was worth hundreds of millions, so why get tied down to one gal I wondered? He probably is wondering the same now, too.

I can maybe understand cheating on his wife with one or two mistresses, but 15 mistresses and who knows how many more that he paid hush money. I'm left wondering why he didn't just do the more honorable thing and get a divorce, instead of cheat on her so badly. At this point, it would have been a lot less drama for the world of golf, and for him emotionally and financially.

It's clear that Phil was the better man today... not only in terms of playing ability at The Masters, but also as a husband and father. Congratulations, Phil! Savor this victory with Amy and your family!

Masters, Tiger, and Ernie

The second round of the Masters was played today, and it's really my favorite tournament of all. The pristine beauty of Augusta National is beyond anywhere I've seen. I can only hope one day to step foot on that course, if not play a round there.

Tiger got a warm reception yesterday at the first hole. The patrons gave him a very welcome reception, which I can't say I expected. He's possibly the best golfer in our lifetime, yet his personal life has certainly been a disappointment. If he wins, I'll be impressed that he can win another Major after not playing for nearly 150 days.

Ernie Els had a problem on the 15th hole, which if it not for the patrons could have been an even bigger disaster. It was a Rules of Golf learning moment. On his approach shot on 15, he hit his ball into the water. He took a drop, and then made a second approach shot, which sailed over the green.

Ernie then pitched the ball over the green, and it rolled off the front side of the green out of Ernie's site. He heard the groans of the patrons, and in past years the ball would have run off into the lake. Ernie was about to drop another ball when patrons told him not to do it.

If he had dropped the second ball, it would have been in play. He would then suffer a two-stroke penalty, since his first ball was in play already. There is no provisional ball for a ball that is hit into a hazard.

Thanks to his new friends, Ernie shot a 7 on the par 5 instead of a 9 because of the fans.

He's Back!

Tiger has announced he'll return to golf by playing in the Masters. I'm surprised that he's not starting with the Tavistock Cup, which is played in his neighborhood and a controlled environment, or Arnold's tournament where he'd also be well protected.

He's starting with the place of his first Major win. Golf needs him back and I look forward to watching how his game after his long absence.

Stevie Speaks

Just read excerpts of Steve Williams' interview New Zealand's version of 60 Minutes. He is adamant that he didn't know about Tiger's escapades off the course. I'd like to see the segment and watch his facial expressions and body language. He's gotten caught up in this mess as well because people have accused him of covering up for Tiger.

I look forward to the day that Tiger is back on the course and playing competitively again. And, more importantly, that this whole ugly episode in professional golf is over. Let's hope it's soon!

Tiger's Comments

Today Tiger finally spoke about what's gone on for him since his personal and professional brand collapsed on the morning after Thanksgiving. Since the announcement of his speaking, people have complained about his choosing today when the Match Play Championship is being played. They've criticized the lack of media questions and the controlled environment, etc..

There were no smiles and no jokes. I saw nervousness, humility, and sincerity. He's proud of his accomplishments with his Foundation, with equal adamance for his privacy.

The bottom line for me is this was a start to rebuilding himself as a man who has utmost respect for his wife, as a father his children won't be embarrassed to call "Father," and as a son that his mother can look at with pride. Whether he'll be the greatest golfer is the least that concerned him today. At least he has his priorities right for now.

His actions in the future will determine whether he was successful in rebuilding himself as a role model. Until then, the media or players tearing apart what he didn't say or should have done instead isn't helpful. It's a tragic situation, and none of us has been in the situation that Tiger has put himself in. It was a huge step today of many more for Tiger. I wish him and his family the best of luck in putting their lives together.

PGA Needs More Steve Strickers

Congratulations to Steve Stricker! His win today and Phil's 45th place finish makes him the #2 golfer in the world rankings.

Many of you might have not watched the finish of the Northern Open Trust to turn to Super Bowl festivities, but Roger Maltbie talked about how PGA Tour Commissioner Finchem said the Tour needs 150 more Steve Strickers. Commissioner Finchem was talking about not only his on course demeanor (no swearing or club throwing), but also how he treats his sponsors.

Then, when interviewing Stricker, Maltbie asked Stricker how it feels to come from where he was four years ago nearly quitting the game to where he is today. Stricker responded humbly in tears that it's been a hard fight, including today's final round with Luke Donald cutting into his lead.

It's nice to see Stricker's gratitude, class, and humility. Enjoy your success, Steve!

Golf Is Fighting Back

The media has tainted golf with a bad image this last year. Corporate sponsors of tournaments or executives playing golf with clients to deepen their business relationships are targeted as extravagant, wasteful spenders. In reality these corporations and executives are using golf as a tool to maintain, and even strengthen, their client relationships during our troubled economic times. If clients continue to use golf for business, it would be foolish for businesses and executives to stop doing so.

One way that the PGA Tour has responded to the heightened criticism of corporate sponsorships is by creating the Tour Club. It is a yearly membership that gives an insiders' access to tournaments for its members. At the Northern Trust Open, for example, its members got to set pins with tournament officials and attend a breakfast meeting with Jerry West, the famed basketball player and the Tournament's Executive Director. At the Masters, members will have dinner with a Master's legend, and at the Players Championship, members will tour the Golf Channel broadcast location. It sounds like a great experience for executives and high-worth clients to enjoy together.

Another response to the negative media attention is a coalition of golf organizations called "We Are Golf." The group represents club pros, course superintendents, course owners and club managers, and aims to convince U.S. policy makers in Washington that golf is an important, job-creating industry that ought to be supported, not denounced. The coalition's central point is that golf is responsible for roughly two million jobs in the U.S. paying $61 billion in wages.

I'm responding to the attack on golf as well with a series of interviews (that I'll be launching soon) with golf and business celebrities about how they use golf for their personal, professional, and financial abundance. For the uninformed, golf may look like a silly game. But for those who use golf as a business tool, it's part of their repertoire to building their businesses and success.

I'm glad to see the industry is starting to bolster golf's image.

More Controversy on PGA Tour -- Phil's Turn

You probably know that the PGA Tour required players this year to stop hitting U-groove wedges and go back to V-grooves. Some players, including Phil Mickelson, are hitting the Ping Eye 2 wedge that was controversial when it came out 30 years ago because it has U-grooves.

Phil and other players using it say the PGA Tour approved the use of that club as part of a legal settlement back in the 80s. Others, including Robert Allenby and Scott McCarron, claim using the Ping wedge is skirting the new rule against the use of the U-groove wedge and want the PGA Tour to prohibit its use. McCarron even used the C-word: cheating.

As an attorney, the players using the Ping wedge appear to be within the Rules because the wedge has been approved by the PGA Tour. When the Tour drafted the ruling against the use of the U-grooves, it carelessly forgot about the Ping wedge and will need to amend its Rule.

Is it cheating though? Cheating to me is the intentional or even unintentional violation of a Rule. Players using the Ping wedge haven't violated the Rule as its currently written, so I can't go so far as saying they're cheating.

Would I continue to use that club since this controversy started? No. I wouldn't want to win the tournament with a questionable advantage over the rest of the field. I'd also be concerned that every time I used the wedge I unconsciously would have doubt creep into my game and somehow have it affect my shot. It wouldn't be worth it to me and my piece of mind.

How about you? What would you do if you were Phil or another player playing the Ping wedge? Keep hitting it? Or, put it back where you left it 30 years ago?

Enjoy the rest of the Farmers Insurance Open at beautiful Torrey Pines.

John Daly Announces He's Done with Golf

After shooting 71 today at Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, Daly announced that he's quitting golf. Does anyone believe that? How many of us have said the same after a frustrating round? I can admit that I certainly have when nothing went right with my game. But, of course, I was out there again the next week.

I suspect it's marketing for his upcoming Golf Channel program, "Being John Daly." And, if it's not, his retirement will be short-lived. He's worked hard to get this far with his surgery, weight loss, better eating regimen, etc..

Sponsors love him because he's still a draw and, without Tiger, golf needs every possible draw. Look forward to seeing you playing again soon, John!

Switching Between Champions Tour and the Playoff Games

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.

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!

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!

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!!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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:)!

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!

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!

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!

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!