JH Golfer Magazine

ISSUE II

Jackson Hole Golfer M AG A Z I N E

Photo: Tuck Fauntleroy, Teton Pines

Get Out And Play

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Some golf professionals would say, “Your second shot is most important.” Personally, I agree! Unfortunately, our lie is above our feet, deep in the rough, and on the verge of going in the water. The question is, do we layup, take a drop, or roll up our pant legs, remove our shoes and take our best shot at the green?

By staying focused, having confidence in our abilities, and going for the green, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the second issue of the Jackson Hole Golfer Magazine. After a successful first issue, with a bad economic bounce, we here at Iconic Industries took our second shot and set out to prove that with hard work, persistence and most importantly, confidence, you can always reach the green.

I would like to use this page to give our greatest appreciation to everyone who made this issue possible. Strength comes from support, and I can’t thank you enough! I would also personally like to thank two very important people, Mr. Charlie Mechem and Mr. Tom Crow.

Charlie, I truly believe you were put on this planet to touch people’s lives and bring happiness to the world. I’m so grateful to have met you and your infectious smile! Tom, your encouragement, enthusiasm and the experiences you’ve shared with me have made me stronger in life, and most importantly, stronger in business. I always look forward to talking with you and always walk away with a smile and a new outlook on the game of life. To everyone else involved, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

With that being said, I hope you enjoy this year’s issue, and always remember: No matter what lie you are given, always keep your head down, have faith in your swing, and be sure to follow through. You never know, you might just end up “Dancing!”

Michael Bills

Photo: Jesse Brown, Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club

Publisher Jesse Brown Art Director Kristen Joy www.kristenjoydesign.com Editor Michael Bills Copy Editor Pamela Periconi

Jackson Hole Golfer M AG A Z I N E

Cover Photo: Michael Bills, Shooting Star

Contributing Authors Nikiya Adomaitis Chris Bezamat Michael Bills Mark Bradley Bruce Burkland Katy Estes J.B. Evans Ryan Knaeble Chris “Nezz” Pierce Justin Scott Kristen Williams Rafael Williams Contributing Photographers Dana Adomaitis Kara Adomaitis Rick Armstrong Kyle Barras Chris Bezamat Michael Bills Jesse Brown Tuck Fauntleroy Neal Henderson Allen Kennedy Ryan Knaeble Rob Perry Stephanie Peterka Chris “Nezz” Pierce Tony Roberts Michael Witz

www.jhgolfermagazine.com

Features 10 Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club 12 Charlie Mechem: The Passion that saved the LPGA 16 A Day At The Beach 18 Product reviews 20 Shooting Star 22 NExt On The Tee 24 Semblance: Image Gallery 34 Teton Pines 36 South Of Jackson 40 Shouldering The Pain

42 The Bartenders’ Cup 44 I’ll Give you A Tip 46 Teton Youth & Family 12th Annual Golf Tournament 49 Targhee village golf course 51 TGR Tee-Off 54 Instructional Tips From PGA Pro Mark Bradley 56 Yes, Sir 60 The Skinny With Mr. Crow 62 A Major Milestone

Full Golf, Individual, Corporate and Social Memberships available. For more information, please contact Matt Souther at 307-733-7787.

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WWW. JHGTC.COM

With surroundings this beautiful, one of the course’s greatest challenges will be your attention. With panoramic views of the Grand Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, we invite you to test your skills on our newly renovated Robert Trent Jones II championship golf course. Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club integrates a creative and challenging golf course with the unique beauty of the Jackson Hole area. Consistently ranked as the finest course in Wyoming and as one of the top 100 golf resorts in the country by Golf Digest magazine, Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club’s recently completed renovation project has touched on nearly every aspect of the acclaimed facility. Our new sustainable clubhouse features a full-service pro shop and casual bistro dining at the North Grille Restaurant, with indoor and patio dining for lunch and dinner. Such vast improvements, coupled with one of the best views on Earth, are sure to propel the course to one of the most reputable mountain golf courses in North America. Come experience this new era at the legendary Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club.

Photos: Tuck Fauntleroy

For Tee Time Reservations, call 307.733.3111 | For dining reservations at the North Grille, call 307.733.7788 For Membership, Weddings, Special Events and Group Golf Events, contact Matt Souther at 307.733.7787 General Manager Guy Evans 307.734.3855

Charlie Mechem:

The Passion That Saved The LPGA Story By Kristen Williams

Photos By Stephanie Peterka

The LPGA made a wise decision in 1989 with the hiring of Charles Mechem as its new commissioner. Mechem immediately became aware that the Tour was in trouble when he took the reins in September of that year. He had a big task ahead of him. More important than his impressive business acumen and relationship skills was the passion he brought to the job, which would prove to be the impetus of change that was so sorely needed. The accomplishments and success of his term are only a fraction of the rich story of this Ohio native who genuinely loves golf, respects women, and still sparkles with that passion that saved the LPGA. When he walked into the cozy anteroom of the exclusive Tradition Golf Club in La Quinta, California, Mechem approached me directly with a warm smile and handshake in greeting. He was dressed in traditionally appropriate attire with a sporty, casual slant that went along more with his BlackBerry and youthful energy than his nearly 80 years of life had led me to expect. From the moment we met, I knew Mechem had a respect and appreciation for women often lost on men of his generation. I came to realize that attitude had developed over a lifetime rather than simply during his tenure with the LPGA. Later that afternoon, he remarked, “I’ve had women around me all my life that I respected, starting with my mother.”

I would have guessed it had it gone unsaid. His mother, “literally an angel,” as he called her, was clearly a big influence in Mechem’s life, as well as his wife, sister and two daughters, whose strength and love helped shape the man he is today.

We were joined by his longtime friend, Burch Riber, and settled into a spot on a quaint terrace where the conversation flowed for hours like the quietly persistent fountain, which was the only other guest in our private setting.

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Qualified for the Job Mechem’s history with the business of golf began back in the late 60s when he was CEO of Taft Broadcasting. The company purchased land near Cincinnati to build an amusement park, and Riber persuaded Mechem to build a golf course on the remaining land. Mechem hired then-budding golf course designer Jack Nicklaus to build it. Over the years, The Golf Center at King’s Island has hosted professional events for all three major United States golf tours — the PGA, LPGA and Champions tours — including 10 straight years as the venue for the LPGA Championship under Riber’s management. Naturally, Mechem’s relationships with major players and executives in the golf industry blossomed and grew from there. Perhaps he didn’t realize it, but his 23 years of experience at Taft, including sponsoring many tournaments, and his law degree from Yale that he used in practice for 9 years before

and Marilyn stopped there on the way home. First, he met with the search committee, comprised entirely of female board members and players. Mechem smiled and recalled the “grilling” he received in that meeting, which began with a question along the lines of, “What makes you, a 60-year-old man, think you can run a women’s organization?”

The question he especially appreciated came from board chair Mary Jo Jacobi: “In your 23 years at Taft, how many secretaries have you had?” Mechem understood the implications of the question regarding his dealings and relationships with women in business. “One” was his honest reply, and that was the right answer. After several hours and being told they would call him in the morning with their decision, he finally retired his jet-lagged self for the night. His head didn’t hit the pillow before the phone rang in his room. Jacobi said they were ready to

that, combined beautifully with his love for golf to make him uniquely suited to the role of LPGA commissioner. Nicklaus knew it. Riber knew it. They made sure Judy Dickinson, then-president of the LPGA Players Association, knew it as well, and she placed a call to Mechem that would set the process in motion to hire him and ultimately change the fate of the LPGA. Mechem shared the story of that process as if it happened only yesterday.

hire him and asked if they could please negotiate right then as many of them were leaving early in the morning. He redonned his jacket and tie, and before he went to bed, Mechem had agreed to commit 5 years to the organization and became the new LPGA commissioner.

Hiring Charlie After that call, Mechem met briefly with Dickinson and her husband, Gardner, to discuss the possibility in what he called “a fun interview that went well.” Time passed and another call came while Mechem and his wife, Marilyn, were in London on vacation. Judy Dickinson asked him to come to New York to interview with the board, so he

The Task at Hand Mechem had nothing negative to say about his predecessor, Bill Blue.

However, the facts are Blue’s term was terminated after less than a year as commissioner, and the Tour was in bad shape at the time. Sponsors were threatening to jump ship to the Champions Tour and told Mechem they’d give him a year to fix the problems or they’d be gone. Player morale was at an all-time low. These challenges gave birth to the vision Mechem saw for the LPGA and he quickly assessed and addressed the problems.

Saving the LPGA At the first meeting in which he formally addressed the players, Mechem explained, “It’s clear to me that the problem is you have a massive institutional inferiority complex.” The players didn’t feel good about themselves, they felt intimidated by the PGA and the senior tours, and the media was on their backs. Mechem rallied the ladies with all the reasons he truly believed they had to feel good about themselves and challenged them to rebuild their pride — to go out on the course showing their self-belief.

Mechem worked with the sponsors and attended every event for the next five years, all the while encouraging the players to bring their confidence and charisma to the tee every time. His method of marketing the overall appeal of the players rather than sex appeal was refreshing and honest. He appealed to players to attend events they sometimes didn’t even realize they had been neglecting, further assuaging the sponsors. He recognized that at small market events, the LPGA was often the biggest story in town and used his attendance at those press conferences to get the new message out in bold fashion.

“When you run the LPGA you gotta be upbeat because someone’s always trying to whack you down.”

It didn’t take long to see the effects of Mechem’s passionate efforts. According to Riber, “Anybody less than Charlie couldn’t have straightened out the problem with the sponsors. He saved the LPGA.” Perhaps having been a sponsor himself put Mechem in a unique position to understand their concerns and issues, and handle them appropriately. During his term, Mechem created the LPGA Foundation, started the commissioner’s advisory group and implemented a rookie program in which every new player had to spend time working as a tournament volunteer, to name a few more accomplishments. When pressed to reveal his proudest achievement as commissioner, he described the reversal of that institutional inferiority complex. Riber added that the sponsors also recognized the change in the players’ attitudes and appreciated Mechem’s work to affect the new perception of the Tour as a whole.

A Grateful Commissioner Emeritus Mechem was surprised by the graciousness he received during his last year as commissioner before retiring. At every event, the tournament threw him a retirement party, which he calls “the longest farewell tour since the Grateful Dead.” His genuine affection and respect for women seemingly deepened over the years, as at one party he remarked, “After five years with all of you, I think I became the first male gray-haired feminist.”

Mechem made a lot of wonderful friends in players and sponsors along the way. He speaks glowingly about the players and trying to get him to name favorites was futile. He still serves as personal business advisor to Annika Sorenstam (as well as his neighbor, Arnold Palmer), but over the course of the day, he named so many players — and the specific traits he enjoyed about each — it was obvious if he had one favorite, he had 140.

We had lunch and played a little golf and I was honored when he introduced me as his friend, using my first and last name to every person who approached him. His home office is terrific with photographs, notes and memorabilia. While the conspicuous display was evidence of many of the lives he has touched, his presentation of it was all about how they had touched his. His wife, Marilyn, was just as warm and welcoming as Mechem, and it was clear from talking to him that she has been his most important partner and confidante during their 57 years of marriage.

Yes, the LPGA made a wise decision back in 1989 and it has come a long way since then, in no small part due to Mechem’s passion and work. It even has its first female commissioner in place now. Though not meant by Mechem as advice for Carolyn Bivens, perhaps it is: “When you run the LPGA you gotta be upbeat because someone’s always trying to whack you down.” When one golf writer called him a “terminal optimist,” Mechem pled guilty: “I love these women. I really love ’em. They make less money, get less public exposure, less attention than the male tour by light-years but they still are upbeat, happy, they work hard, and … I like that. So the least I can do is try to be the same way, and that’s my nature anyway.” It certainly is, Charlie.

A Day at the Beach

Presented by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

There are better places to play from than the bunkers. But should the ball come to rest in a bunker, the type of sand can make a noticeable difference in play — especially on your scorecard.

Balls may form “plugged” or “fried-egg” lies in the bunker sand when the ball makes a crater in the sand on impact. Your golf course superintendent looks at several variables when selecting bunker sand to prevent your ball from being buried should your shot go astray.

The United States Golf Association specifies particle-size criteria for selecting a bunker sand. Sand in the prescribed range provides the best all-around conditions in terms of ball lie, firmness of footing and ease of bunker maintenance.

For some golf facilities, bunker maintenance is an important aspect in sand selection. For example, a golf course that is subject to high winds would have to stay away from selecting sand that is too fine. If the sand is too fine, wind will displace the sand particles, causing a continual need for replacement.

The predominant particle shape of sand and its “sphericity,” or roundness, also comes into play. A desired bunker sand shape is angular with a low degree of roundness. The sharp corners of an angular sand help it resist movement after impact from a golf ball, resulting in fewer “plugged” or “fried-egg” lies. Truly round or “soft” sand requires a substantial amount of skill to play from. It’s like playing a shot in a pudding-filled pit. Round sand needs to be avoided because it shifts more under the weight of the golfer and can allow golf balls to bury and disappear on impact.

A hard, silica sand is often preferred in bunkers, since silica sand will resist weathering and retain its original shape longer. Sand such as limestone is more prone to weathering, and the fine particles released in the process affect the playability and maintenance of the sand. Limestone sand can “set up” or become “crusted” because of the cementing action of finer silt and clay particles. Limestone sand requires more frequent raking to maintain a suitable playing surface.

Your golf course superintendent may choose to have a certified soils testing laboratory help evaluate sand when making changes at the course. The lab will check the sand’s particle size, distribution, shape, color, crusting potential, hydraulic conductivity (ability to drain water) and its resistance to buried lies.

Bunker sand selection affects the condition of play as well as bunker maintenance. Always do your part to preserve favorable playing conditions by raking the area that you disturbed after hitting from the bunker. By doing so, you can help make the game more enjoyable for other golfers unfortunate enough to hit their balls into the sand.

Even though a golf course’s management staff devotes considerable time to bunkers, it is important to remember they are still hazards. It is not realistic for golfers to expect to hit shots with the same skill and accuracy as they do from turf.

For more information regarding golf course management practices, contact your local superintendent or the GCSAA at (800) 472-7878 or www.gcsaa.org.

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Photo: Jesse Brown, Shooting Star

When choosing a bunker surface, the varying skill levels of golfers must also be considered. A lower handicap player typically prefers a hard, smooth bunker surface. However, the higher handicap player prefers a softer surface that allows them to get their club through the sand. As a result, superintendents will try to provide a surface that satisfies the widest range of players.

Dixon Earth Golf Ball Dixon Golf, makers of the 100% Eco-Friendly golf ball, is working hard to facilitate conservation. Earlier this year, Dixon introduced a cutting-edge incentive program to encourage golfers to return spent Dixon Earth golf balls for a $1.00 credit toward the purchase of new ones. Each box of Dixon Earth golf balls includes a return mail pouch so golfers can easily mail used balls back to Dixon.

Unlike other golf ball brands that use harsh heavy metal pollutants like tungsten, cobalt and lead, and contain non-renewable synthetic materials and compounds, the Dixon Earth golf ball is “green” to the core. The Earth core is made from a proprietary polymer that maintains the playable properties of the ball, but ensures that it is 100% renewable. Most manufacturers would stop there … not Dixon. Their commitment to the environment and to your golf game is 100%. In addition to the core, the entire Dixon Earth ball is manufactured with materials that can be recycled and used to make other consumer products. Even the package is made from 100% recycled material. From core to cover, from packaging to production, Dixon Earth is setting a new standard in environmental consciousness.

Amazingly, Dixon didn’t have to sacrifice playability to become environmentally friendly. Just the opposite: The Dixon Earth golf ball plays better than most two-piece balls on the market right now and even outperformed several three-piece urethane cover balls in competitive testing! It plays the distance, spins and sticks on the greens, and offers a tremendous amount of “feel” when putting. This ball hasn’t just met … it has exceeded the expectations of top critics in the golf industry.

Dixon’s emphasis is on craftsmanship, technology, service and the ability to offer the best golf ball at the best price.

Dixon may not be the biggest golf ball brand out there, but they certainly are the best. Their quality and price are unmatched in the industry, and they guarantee 100% Customer Satisfaction on all of the products they make.

For more information on Dixon Golf and the new 100% Eco-Friendly Dixon Earth golf ball, visit their Web site at www.dixongolf.com

The Women’s Townie

POW Golf Gloves POW Golf gloves come in two cuff designs, the Noonan and the Townie. From the sandbagger to the scratch golfer, the variety in their line ensures that there is a model to suit the game of every golfer. Each of their gloves is made from the finest quality materials and engineered to enhance your day.

• SuperFit™ engineered pre-curved design for enhanced performance • FollowThru™ stretch paneling for consistent swing • Airports™ on and between fingers keep you dry and comfortable.

• Japanese Grain Cut leather maintains fit and feel after prolonged use.

• Reusable POWCH. Each glove comes in a reusable zip-seal storage powch that will keep your glove nicer for longer, or keep you from losing your pocket change and keys in the golf cart.

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From the steel shaft to the rubber-cored ball, unconventional designs have frequently led to serious breakthroughs in the evolution of golf.

The zipper was invented in 1913, but was not adopted into women’s fashion until the late 1930s. It’s about time this convenient design enters the golf glove world. The zipper cuff enables fast on-and-off ability with a fashion-forward design.

• Zipper Cuff system is easy, safe and fast.

The Men’s Noonan

A new look for a classic design. Our Cabretta leather is naturally thin, making sure you don’t lose the feel of your grip or your game. The Noonan combines the classic closure with unorthodox styling, colors and patterns.

• Adjustable hook & loop closure

Hozell Leisure Apparel Hozell is an Orange County, California, brand whose owners make comfortable golf-inspired clothes to reflect their motto of “leisure with dignity.” The people at Hozell respect the game of golf, but not the pleats and outdated fashion that accompany it. That’s why they’ve stepped in to make shirts and hats for the next generation of golfer that can be worn on the course as well as in everyday life. Both golfers and non-golfers are fans of the hand-stitched quality and the butterysoft comfort each piece provides.

If you’ve never been a fan of “golf fashion,” that’s good … neither has Hozell.

Hozell can be found in select boutiques and golf retailers across the country, at its Southern California headquarters, out of its one-of-a-kind Mobile Store that may be pulling up to a golf course near you (actually a refurbished 1984 Shasta RV), and, of course, at www.hozell.com

OGIO Edge Bag The Edge is OGIO’s answer to a hybrid, living somewhere between a tricked-out stand bag and a lightweight cart bag. The sleek, external-framed bag includes the patented Zipperless Ball Pocket (ZBP™), its new lightweight exo-skeletal frame, TORQ™ Strap anti-sway cart strap, new EVA molded hip pad with airflow system for increased comfort, and “Isolation Chamber™” wet/dry pocket. It also features the new ARC Lite™ stand system, which increases strength while providing greater functionality than a normal stand system. With style, attitude and supreme functionality, the Edge is the ultimate bag.

FEATURES: 9” Woode™ top version with integrated top grab handle • ARC Lite™ stand system • Full-length club dividers • Custom OGIO ergonomic 3-point handle • Lightweight exoskeletal ZBP™ frame • Integrated tee holders • Hoode™ • Full bag rain shield • ZBP™ • TORQ™ Strap • Lift Grip™ integrated trunk handle • Crossbow shoulder strap system • Internal “Isolation Chamber™” wet/dry pocket • Glove/ putter cover velcro attachment loop • EVA molded hip pad with airflow system • Weatherproof fleece-lined valuables pocket • Easy access divot tool and pen sleeve • Elastic oversized towel loop • Elastic umbrella containment system • Easy access scorecard and pencil sleeve pockets

TaylorMade® Burner Iron The Burner® ’09 iron is the most dynamic-looking, best-performing iron ever to bear the name TaylorMade. Every club — long irons, middle irons and short irons — earned high marks for distance, accuracy and forgiveness during TaylorMade testing. Likewise, its revolutionary design featuring a futuristic blend of curves, angles and lines, is completed with a dark, almost sinister finish. More importantly, each one of these sleek machines performs like nothing else.

Each iron was designed independently to maximize performance. The long irons are easy to hit, the mid-irons are easy to control, and the short irons possess the acute responsiveness, feel, control and playability needed to score.

Check out these products and many more at www.intheholegolf.com

They’re astonishingly long, straight and easy to launch. They’ll be played by everyone from tour pros to 29 handicaps. It’s the next great iron from TaylorMade.

Shooting Star’s Grand Opening Jackson Hole’s newest golf course, designed by acclaimed golf course architect Tom Fazio, will open its greens to a much-anticipated reception this July.

877.739.8062 | 307.739.8062 | john.resor@sothebysrealty.com

Golf, The Fazio Way Tom Fazio was the natural choice to design Shooting Star. No living designer has more credits on Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses and Golfweek’s collection of America’s best. In any climate or terrain, Fazio is noted for designing courses that fit their natural environment.

According to Fazio, who has designed over 125 courses, there are two things essential to building a world-class course — a great environment and commitment by ownership. “In Jackson Hole, at the base of the Tetons, we knew we had a special, unique environment. Once we got to know the Resors [owners] and they us, they said, ‘Tell us what you need us to do and we’ll make it happen.’ Right away, we knew we had the highest level of commitment.”

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When asked if there were any secrets to building a great course, Fazio replied, “No. We work at it. That’s what we do. In Jackson Hole, because of the scale of the Tetons, we needed a very large piece of land and the Resors gave it to us. Our job was to create separate, distinctive and unique golf holes that have never been done before, and I think we have succeeded. We worked hard to make each hole special so that you’ll remember it because of the visual impact and want to come back to play it again.”

Designed as a core course, Shooting Star is spread over 254 acres and is physically and visually separate from homes, roads and other intrusions.

Framed by ponds, streams, lakes, landforms and stands of aspens, cottonwoods and spruce, the course offers an exceptional golfing experience for players of all ability levels.

World-Class Amenities In addition to the Tom Fazio golf course, residents and members will enjoy a year-round clubhouse designed by Hart Howerton, an internationally acclaimed land planning and architectural firm that has designed such well-received clubhouses as Mirabel Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, Vacquero Country Club outside Dallas, and Kuki’o Golf and Beach Club in Kona, Hawaii.

Shooting Star’s 40,000-square-foot clubhouse will offer dining and world-class spa and fitness facilities, as well as men’s and women’s locker rooms.

The interior is designed and furnished by BraytonHughes Design Studios, one of the leading interior design firms in the hospitality and club industry. Their references include numerous Four Seasons and the Willow Stream Spa for the Princess Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona.

A 6,000-square-foot barn will host children’s activities and ski concierge services with shuttles to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The golf course itself will become the valley’s premier Nordic ski facility. Other on-site amenities include a 25-meter tension edge lap pool, separate children’s pool and two Jacuzzis. The pro shop is located next to the short game area and doubleended driving range, which, taken together, may well be the largest practice facility ever designed by Fazio.

Fish Creek and the nearby Snake River offer a mecca for fly-fishing enthusiasts. Residents and members may also partake in the valley’s limitless offering of year-round activities including paragliding, hot air ballooning, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, concerts, rodeos and more.

Historic Architecture, Enduring Quality Residential development at Shooting Star is limited to 100 single-family homes, 34 hand-hewn cabins and 48 townhomes.

More than 75 percent of the home sites adjoin creeks, ponds or lakes, and gentle landforms are repeated throughout the residential sites to enhance privacy and visual interest.

Construction on 18 cabins at Shooting Star is currently under way. They were designed by Paul Bertelli of JLF & Associates, whose firm was founded by Jonathan Foote, and is widely recognized as the pioneer in using reclaimed materials and old world craftsmanship. Their buildings convey a sense of history and respect for their natural environments.

Jackson Hole Brokerage | JHSIR.COM Jackson, Wyoming 83001 877.739.8062

Next On The Tee

Katy Estes

Photo: Michael Witz

My name is Katy Estes. I am a freshman in high school, and live in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I was born with two fingers on my left hand, but that has never stopped me from doing anything I wanted to try. Golf just happened to be that thing I wanted to try. I thought the sport was going to be easy for me to figure out: All I had to do was hold a club, swing it and hit the ball. But golf is not that simple, as I was about to find out.

I really started to golf last summer. It began with chipping in the backyard. My dad, sister and I would place a five-gallon bucket at the back of the yard and try to put a ball in it. We would spend hours trying to get as close as we could. “Your short game is everything!” my dad would always tell me. My uncle Rick would take me to the driving range and guess what? He would tell me the same thing. It turned out they were right. I then learned this from professional Greg Dennis, the golf pro out at Teton Pines. I have known Greg for a couple of years now, and the first time I swung a golf club in front of him he saw what I could become.

It just had to be pulled out of me. Greg has put a lot of time and effort into me, working on my grip, swing, stance and game. All of that effort paid off: In my freshman year of high school last fall, I finished 11th at the state tournament in Douglas, Wyoming.

Whenever I want to try something new, I have to figure out what is going to work best for me and is going to feel the best with my hand. I have done a great deal of sports like swimming, ballet, horseback riding, track and skiing. Golf is one of those sports that once you learn how to do it, it stays with you for life. I enjoy it because it is something I am good at and I have fun playing with my friends on the golf team. I believe that if I continue golfing, it will take me places. I am going to continue my hard work with Greg and keep chipping in the backyard to improve on my short game, which I know is everything. I would like to turn professional by the end of the summer, too … just kidding! But I would like to work in the golf industry now and when I get older. My goal this summer is to get a job at either Teton Pines or Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club, play lots of golf, make it into the top 10 at state in the fall, and most importantly, have fun!!!

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Photo: Michael Witz

Nikiya Adomaitis Beautiful landscape, quaint town, wonderful people and great golf courses. Jackson, Wyoming, is a beautiful place to live all year round. Golfing all summer and snowmobiling all winter — that’s how I live my life in JHole. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to live here.

I am Nikiya Adomaitis, Jackson born and raised. I have lived in the same house with my mom and dad at the base of Snow King Resort since I was two years old. I am captain of the girls’ high school golf team and a team rider for Colorado Sledstyle. I have been on the golf team since freshman year. This upcoming season will be my third year on the team. I have been racing snocross since I was 5 years old and am now a fully sponsored rider. Balancing school, friends and two sports can sometimes be difficult. But after all these years, I am getting a pretty good hang of it. I finished this last semester with a 4.0 GPA and made it onto the principal’s honor roll.

Golf is a great sport that teaches you many things about life, like how to have fun, how to cope with anger, and just spending quality time with people that love the same things you do. Golfing in Jackson is sometimes frustrating. Some days it’s a wonderful, bright, blue-sky day when you go out in the morning, but as you are coming down the 11th fairway, all of a sudden it clouds up and starts hailing the size of golf balls. All you can do is take cover to save yourself from bruises. Even though we only have about a 3-month season, the summer weather in Jackson is usually so beautiful and sunny. And it rarely gets above 100 degrees. My family extends our golfing season by heading to places like St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada, in the spring and fall months when it is still full-on winter in Jackson. In the summer, I golf in Star Valley, Wyoming, and Driggs, Idaho. During the school year, I get to travel all around Wyoming for tournaments, which is really fun. Last year, I competed in the state golf tournament in Douglas.

It was a great 3-night trip with lots of good golfing and good fun!

Photo: Kara Adomaitis

In the winter, I race snocross. If you don’t know what that is, it’s kind of just like motocross except with snowmobiles and snow on the track. Picture a series of jump bumps and burm turns with 13 other people on the track with you at the same time.

Last year, I won the MWR 2008 Pro Women’s championship and this year, I am racing in a sport class, which includes all the people trying to get into semi-pro. There is one other girl that races in this class, but all the rest of them are men ranging in age from 15-30 years old. I am fully sponsored by Colorado Sledstyle, as I said before. They bought my snowmobile and all my gear and help me pay my racing expenses. I also get to travel a lot. I travel all over the western United States almost every weekend from December to April. When I’m not racing, I have started hitting freestyle ramps. These are metal-framed jumps with plywood on top so the hit is the same every time. This is a really fun way to keep riding and practicing without having to have a whole track. You can do a huge variety of aerial tricks that are super-fun and cool looking, too!

Photo: Dana Adomaitis

These two sports work great together. I get to travel and do the things I love. But I have a pretty drastic change from summer to winter. Even in tournaments, golf is a fun and relaxing sport while being more demanding on your mind, whereas snocross is exciting and demanding on your body. Jackson is a great place to live a happy and active lifestyle. And that’s why I love it here.

Semblance

Location: 3 Creek Ranch Photo: Allen Kennedy

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Location: Teton Pines Photo: Tuck Fauntleroy

Location: Jackson Hole GOlf & Tennis Club Photo: Tuck Fauntleroy

Location: Snake RIver Sporting Club Photo: Tony Roberts

Location: 3 Creek Ranch Photo: Rick Armstrong

Location: Shooting Star Photo: Rob Perry

Location: Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club Photo: Jesse Brown

Location: Teton Pines Photo: Tuck Fauntleroy

Location: Huntsman Springs Photo: Tony Roberts

Willow Creek is Interiror Design

Home Furnishings & Accessories

Jewelry & Gifts

Home Furnishings 115 E. Broadway • Next to Jedediah’s 307-733-7868 • www.willowcreekhf.com

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Teton Pines Country Club is located at the base of the Tetons in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The golf course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, was opened in 1987. Stretching 7,412 yards, the par 72 course is surrounded by majestic mountains, breathtaking scenery and working ranches. Players will also find an award-winning golf shop and a full practice facility. The resort also features excellent dining, luxurious townhomes, meeting/conference/banquet facilities, tennis courts, a swimming pool, fly fishing instruction and a magnificent cross-country ski center in winter. The golf season generally begins in early May and continues through late October.

“Top 100 Golf Resorts in North America & the Caribbean” Readers’ Pick Conde Nast Traveler -2004, 2006

“Top 75 Golf Resorts Around the World”

Readers’ Pick Conde Nast Traveler -2002

“3rd Best New Golf Resort in the Country” Golf Digest -1987

“Four Star Award” Golf Digest -2001

www.tetonpines.com

Regular and Annual memberships available

800.238.2223 307.733.1005

South of Jackson Star Valley golf offers charm & beauty

Star Valley Ranch is located 45 miles south of Jackson and offers an amazing golf paradise for all ages and abilities.

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As Jackson Hole is world-renowned as a paradise for skiers, fishermen, golfers and travelers from across the globe, Star Valley is a quieter haven, rich in recreational wealth and natural serenity.

Past Hoback Canyon and along the 26-mile stretch of the gorgeous Snake River Canyon is the north end of Star Valley, a new world of recreational euphoria and year-round seasonal splendor. With Palisades Reservoir and the confluence of three major rivers — the Snake, the Salt and the Greys — Star Valley is full of opportunity for those inclined to taste the outdoors and step away from the sometimes-chaotic nature of Jackson Hole’s tourist-packed streets.

Upper Star Valley starts in Alpine, Wyoming, and stretches to the county seat of Afton, Wyoming, a short 38-mile stretch along Hwy 89/191. It boasts an abundance of scenic landscapes. Historically, Star Valley was an agriculture and farming community started in the late 1800s and was home to fur trappers, dairy farmers and cattle

Words & Photos By Chris “Nezz” Pierce

ranchers who homesteaded in the area due to its proximity to the river valley and natural resources.

Proven worthy of its trade among local and national markets for generations, Star Valley had gone unrecognized as a recreational haven and was often overshadowed by neighboring Jackson Hole.

However, in 1962, while on a trip to Seattle with his family, Las Vegas resident Harold Stewart made a brief stop in Afton and was intrigued by the beauty of the area. The following spring, Stewart convinced his brothers, who owned a contracting company in Las Vegas, to develop a ranch with him in Crow Creek, 20 miles outside of Afton. This ranch would give Las Vegas businessmen and other clientele an opportunity to fish, relax and play golf. Caught under the spell of Star Valley’s intrigue, returning visitors increased each year and helped convince Stewart to expand his utopia.

Aspen Hills features the famous 4th hole nicknamed “The Tunnel Hole,” which is rated the hardest in the state of Wyoming.

Eight years later, he was fortunate enough to purchase 5 adjoining ranches totaling nearly 5,000 acres at the foot of the Bridger Mountains. With water rights from the adjacent mountain streams included in the original homesteaders’ deeds, Stewart was on track to build a beautiful land area equipped with his vision of golf and recreation.

Tim Stewart, Harold’s son, recalls his father using his twin-engine Cessna to fly developers in to help fund the plan that would later become Star Valley Ranch.

“My dad would bring folks up to what is now the first tee box at Aspen Hills, look out and try to relay the idea of the ranch’s future,” Tim Stewart said. “They would look at him as if he was crazy because there was nothing but hayfields in

the layout and they could not foresee developing a hayfield as a worthy investment.”

This made the inception of Star Valley Ranch a slow process, as Harold Stewart had to finance the plan and take the progression one step at a time.

This progression helped in the steady sale of the upper lots that surround Aspen Hills and helped to bankroll the lower golf course community of Cedar Creek, all part of the Star Valley Ranch community.

The first golf course, Aspen Hills, opened in 1970 and was the original Stewart-designed course to enter Star Valley Ranch. Aspen Hills is a 9-hole course with tennis courts, a clubhouse and views of the entire valley. Including an assortment of challenging holes, Aspen Hills hosts the hole rated the most difficult in the state of Wyoming.

“The Tunnel Hole,” as it has been nicknamed, is a 554-yard par 5 with tall and thick aspen foliage on either side of a 40-yard bottleneck fairway. An elevated green and a double dogleg leave little room for error and entice even the best golfers to challenge their skills.

Legends of the game, including Billy Casper, have made their way around both Star Valley Ranch courses and noted the challenging design and stunning backdrops.

Tim Stewart recalls playing with Casper at Aspen Hills as a kid and specifically mentions a moment on the 8th tee box.

“We were on the 8th tee of AH when I went into my bag to grab an old golf ball, facing the large lake in front of me,” Stewart said. “Casper told me to get out a ball that I would putt with because using an expendable ball was like setting myself up for failure.

That was a great memory for me as a young golfer.”

Hole 8 of Aspen Hills, looking back toward the teebox

“Cedar Creek and Aspen Hills golf courses are situated in one of the most picturesque valleys in Wyoming. While they offer challenges to accomplished players, they also provide a friendly, relaxed and affordable experience for golfers of all ages.”

Randy King,

Golf Pro - Star Valley Ranch

Cedar Creek, the sister course to Aspen Hills, is an 18-hole, 6,446-yard golf course with a par of 73. The course rating is 69.7 and has a slope rating of 121 on bluegrass turf. Varying elevations, zigzag holes and charmed rustic settings make the natural layout of Cedar Creek a fun, yet challenging round for golf enthusiasts of any ability.

Built in 1979, Cedar Creek is the second Stewartdesigned golf course complete with thick and mature trees, rigid canyon backdrops and antique farming machinery to complement the quiet integrity of Star Valley’s farming history.

Colorful sunsets and unbelievable cloud formations also accent the ever-changing palette of Cedar Creek’s outline. With the course’s undulating landscape, Cedar Creek can be frustrating for overeager golfers with a heavy swing.

The driver is rarely necessary in the tightly designed golf course equipped with large doglegs and easilyentered out of bounds. The greens are large and diverse, and the layout of each hole changes as you approach each new tee box. Set along the base of the

Bridger Mountain foothills, the ascents and descents are unique and challenging.

A charming characteristic of Cedar Creek Golf Course is the red grain silo and barn that serve as the pro shop, restaurant and “watering hole.” Contrasted with the white picket fence, stark blue sky and palette of broad colors from the turning of the seasons, the silo stands tall as you make the turn at 9 or finish up at 18.

Cedar Creek is host to a multitude of tournaments throughout each season and offers affordable rates to golfers who enjoy playing golf but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars to do so.

Rewarding scenic backdrops, a local crowd to welcome your 19th-hole stories and a nonjudgmental wildlife peanut gallery make Cedar Creek an inviting day of splendor.

The third public golf course — and another Harold Stewart construction — is the Star Valley Ranch Resort’s RV Park Executive Golf Course. The less aggressive golfer, or those looking to relax on an

executive 18-holer, may enjoy this course located just down the road from Cedar Creek and Aspen Hills.

For the Jackson Hole commuter, as well as locals, discounted prices are offered throughout the season and during the pre- and post-peak golf season.

The RV Park offers a great afternoon of funin-the-sun golf with minimal out of bounds or compromising hazards. Look out for hole 9 and 18 though, as you are challenged by front-of-green water hazards that keep your ego in check as you look to post that winning score. The RV Park course is an inexpensive and pleasant way to spend an afternoon playing America’s favorite leisure game.

Plans are under way for the Bridger Mountain Golf Course, which sits between the Cedar Creek and RV Park courses. It is a championship 18-hole course that is sure to get even the most competitive golfers honing their skills as they tackle the nearly 7,500-yard distance from the championship tees.

“I wanted to bring golf back to Afton, and give the area a place to play that would be challenging as well as beautiful.”

Johnny Miller,

Former U.S. Open winner and current lead analyst for NBC Sports

Due to be completed in 2010, BMGC will have phenomenal views, unsurpassed course maintenance and high-end facilities to accommodate residents and visitors alike.

“We are building a course that will bring in folks from Jackson, as well as statewide, who are looking to challenge themselves to a lengthy golf course equipped with high-end amenities and country club flair,” said course General Manager Tim Stewart.

Also due to be completed in 2010 — with a soft launch in the fall of 2009 — is the resurrection of Valli Vu Golf Course in Afton.

Re-established as a Johnny Miller signature course, the 18-hole Valli Vu is sure to compete with statewide courses as a beautiful and intimate getaway for Star Valley residents as well as high school golf students and visitors to the valley.

Miller, a former PGA Professional with title wins at the 1973 U.S. Open and 1976 British Open, has been passionately designing golf courses for many years.

Originally a 9-hole course with a simple design and affordable infrastructure, Valli Vu was a convenient and inexpensive place to play golf, yet a diamond in the rough in terms of future enterprise.

As a longtime Crow Creek ranch owner and frequent fisherman of Star Valley, Miller, who is the current lead analyst for NBC Sports, teamed up with Wyoming developer Brad Morehouse to give Valli Vu a much-needed facelift.

With the reconstruction of an 18-hole, newly seeded, newly greened and expanded version of the existing Valli Vu course,

Miller wanted to give back to Afton, the community that had been good to him over the years.

“I’ve been fond of the laid-back attitude and beauty of the Star Valley area for a long time. As an avid fisherman and frequent visitor to Star Valley, I wanted to design a golf course the high school kids, as well as the town of Afton, could play at and be proud to call their own,” Miller explained. “It’s my passion to take projects that are, in a sense, forgotten about — be it a ranch or golf course — clean them up, and make them beautiful in their own settings.”

Sadly, Morehouse was lost in a tragic plane crash two years ago and the Valli Vu project’s future was in question. Fortunately, the Town of Afton voted to fund the completion of the project.

Miller confirmed that the first 9 holes of golf should be under way by the fall of 2009 and the second 9 holes by the summer of 2010.

Valli Vu is sure to be a terrific golf course set along rolling foothills on the south end of Afton. With a shorter 6,500-yard total distance, Miller is confident that challenging landscapes and long par 4s will keep enthusiasts coming back to play time and again.

For the golf lover, Star Valley is an amazing place to load up the clubs, lace up the shoes and embark on a fun day of breathtaking beauty and casual golf at an affordable rate.

If you have not had a chance to visit this paradise, make the short drive from Jackson and soak up the serene nature of one of Wyoming’s other natural wonders.

---------------------------------------------------Story and photos courtesy of Chris “Nezz” Pierce (nezzdog.com)

Cedar Creek Golf Course svrawy.com 307-883-2230 Aspen Hills Golf Course svrawy.com 307-883-2669 Star Valley Ranch RV Park starvalleyranchresort.com 307-883-2670 Bridger Mountain Golf Course starvalleyranchresort.com 307-883-2670 Valli Vu Call Town of Afton for updates 307-885-9831

Shouldering The Pain

By Dr. Rafael Williams

Shoulder pain and injuries can frequently occur in association with the golf swing. By virtue of its design, the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. Much like a golf ball on a tee, it is an oversized ball resting on an undersized, shallow socket. Since it is oriented horizontally and not vertically, however, it is inherently unstable and therefore, vulnerable to injury and overuse conditions.

The cuff is made up of four separate muscles that work to pull the ball into the socket and help initiate and coordinate the complex motions of the shoulder during the golf swing. They are actually more important than the deltoid in generating the power and arc of a proper swing. The bursa is a lubricating film of thin tissue that covers the cuff and allows it to glide under the acromion (superior arch of the shoulder blade) and the AC (acromioclavicular – between the shoulder blade and collarbone) joint.

Any narrowing that occurs in the space between the humeral head and undersurface of the acromion and/or the AC joint can cause irritation of the bursa and/or cuff, leading to conditions of bursitis and tendonitis, respectively. This pinching of the rotator cuff is termed “impingement.� If left untreated, chronic impingement can ultimately lead to partial or full thickness tears of the rotator cuff.

Overhead reaching, rapid acceleration/deceleration activities and reaching across the body (adduction) all narrow the subacromial space and can either lead to or worsen impingement.

The golf swing, unfortunately, can do this to both shoulders since it places them at opposing extremes of position during the end points of the swing. In a right-handed player, for example, the left shoulder is in an elevated, crossed-over (adducted) position at the end of the backswing.

Conversely, at the end of the follow-through, the right shoulder is adducted and elevated.

To correctly diagnose the underlying cause of a shoulder problem, an analysis of the timing, location and quality of the pain is essential. When does the pain occur? Is it during the golf swing and, if so, which phase of the swing? Does it hurt at night and during specific ranges of motion? Is the pain in a specific location or is it vague? Is the pain sharp with an associated catching/clicking, or is it dull and aching?

Activity modification or avoidance with rest is an easy way to initially treat any problem involving the shoulder. Shortening the backswing and/or slowing the swing down can alleviate some pain and may actually improve the ball strike. Icing the shoulder after playing and warming the shoulder with a heating pad before playing can also be helpful.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory meds like ibuprofen, if tolerated by the stomach, can decrease the extent and duration of pain. If pain persists, a formal medical evaluation should be obtained. Imaging studies (X-rays and/or an MRI) may be obtained to help pinpoint the problem. A formal physical therapy program can be initiated and a steroid injection may be placed for diagnostic and therapeutic reasons.

If all conservative attempts at treatment fail, surgery (generally done arthroscopically with small incisions as an outpatient) can be considered. At the time of surgery, torn tissues can be repaired and arthritic spurs can be removed. The arm may remain in a sling for up to 6 weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery, and full recovery is often 3-4 months but may take up to a year.

Like many orthopedic injuries, prevention is critical. Most shoulder problems can be avoided by properly warming up and stretching the shoulder and upper body prior to playing golf. Maintaining good range of motion and strength in the core allows the power of the swing to originate in the trunk and not the arms. Stretching and loosening up with shorter swing arcs (starting with the wedge and moving up to the driver) can help maintain the health of the shoulder and prevent many injuries from occurring. A proper hip turn and weight shift is also critical in making sure the shoulder is not overloaded during the swing.

A period of rest, anti-inflammatory meds and therapy can often prevent a bad problem from developing or getting worse.

If the pain persists, however, a formal medical evaluation should be obtained in order to facilitate a prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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The Bartenders’ Cup

Words & Photos By Michael Bills

Don’t tell these guys it’s not how you play golf!

As the season comes to an end and the air ration process starts to take place, the last and most anticipated tournament of the season begins. You won’t see Tiger Woods, nor will you see any of the world’s top PGA players, but what you will see is priceless, and perhaps just as fulfilling as watching your idol make his way to the eighteenth green.

Happiness, laughter, comradeship, and most importantly, fun is what you’ll find in this tournament. That’s right, it’s the Bartenders’ Cup, a core community event where Jack Daniels, Bacardi and approximately 20 local businesses team up and hold a tournament at the end of every summer to treat and show appreciation to their employees and the working class people of Jackson Hole. It is a time to let loose and enjoy the last round of golf that the summer has to offer, and believe me, let loose is an understatement.

Now, I should state that this tournament comes with a disclaimer, and if you’re sensitive to anything listed below — and a stickler for the rules of golf — then you might not want to attend or read any further. But if you like to have fun, smile all day, and break the rules a little bit, then please come out and enjoy the event.

WARNING! 1) Keep the pace. If you don’t like hanging out with 12 people on the tee box at one time, this tournament might not be for you!

2) Quiet, Please! If you don’t like to be heckled or have people dancing to James Brown or Isaac Hayes, this tournament might not be for you!

3) No Drinking! If you don’t want to partake in a shot of whiskey every third hole — or choose from a bag full of airplane bottles for the holes in between — this might not be the tournament for you!

4) Dress code. If it matters what you wear, or don’t wear, this might not be the tournament for you!

5) No pictures! If you don’t like guys like me taking pictures of your backswing or while you’re putting for birdie, then this tournament might not be for you!

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Now I know this tournament is in total violation of almost all PGA rules, and so does everyone who participates, but to be honest, that’s the point. It’s not about rules or competing against each other. It’s about coming together, being thankful for living in this amazing place, and celebrating the last round of golf that the summer has to offer. So, if you ever get the chance to play, or even come out and be a spectator like myself, I promise you this: You will come away with some great memories, amazing new friendships and a little something called a hangover. And, in times like these, there’s nothing more important than staying positive, enjoying friends and having fun. Last year’s contestants are already talking about this year and bragging about who’s going to win … the drinking contests, that is!

I’ll Give You a Tip How many times have you read an article on how to cure your slice, or how to increase your drive by ten yards? Plenty, I’m sure. I would like to give you some tips on the game of golf that will lower your score without even the slightest hint of a swing thought.

Interested?

Golf Shop: First, let’s talk about the word “tee time.”

Simple, right? This is the actual time you put your tee in the ground to start your round. It is not the time you check in with the golf shop. Give yourself ample time before each round so you are not rushed. Second, make sure you have everything you need for your round before you tee off. Running back to the golf shop to buy a glove or golf balls won’t do your round any good once you get back to the tee and you are out of breath. And why is it that people don’t want to golf with strangers anymore? My advice: Enjoy your time with the new people you meet. They may teach you something about the game or even life you did not know before.

Driving Range: Say you are running late for your tee time.

Instead of hustling to the range and rushing your warm-up, why not walk to the putting green (which is probably next to the first tee) and take a few putts instead? You will be much calmer when you head to the first tee and you will have a good idea of green speed. How many drivers will you hit in a round? At the most, 14. So why do people pull out the driver and hit a bucket of range balls into the road? Try warming up with shorter clubs that are easier to hit. It will increase your confidence heading to the first tee. Give these simple tips a try before you tee off and you are on your way to a smoother start.

Teeing Off: Why do people think it is their right to hit two balls off the first tee? Do you see Tiger Woods taking two off the first? Playing your second ball gives you no idea as to how your round is supposed to play out. You could hit your first ball in the water then hole your next shot for birdie, but you will never know -44-

By Justin Scott

because you made bogey on your second ball from the middle of the fairway.

In-Round: There are a number of in-round tips that have nothing to do with the golf swing that can lower your scores. I would like to give you a few of the most important ones. The first one is lost balls. A word of advice: If you are looking for a ball in an overgrown area and are having a hard time finding it, you don’t want to. If you do happen to find it, it probably is in such a bad lie you won’t be able to hit it in the first place. Take your penalty and move on. You will

“My advice: Enjoy your time with the new people you meet. They may teach you something about the game or even life you did not know before.” spend less time thinking about the swing that got you in this position in the first place. This brings me to my second in-round word of advice: If the marshal/ ranger approaches you for playing slow, here’s a hint

— you probably are playing slow. He/she is not coming over to harass your group for fun or out of spite. They are just doing their job. My advice, instead of getting upset and defensive, is to agree with the ranger and speed up play a little bit. You will spend less time being mad and more time thinking about playing the game of golf.

The Turn: It seems more and more people are taking a break after nine holes to have some lunch. Since when was golf a two-part event? Last time I checked, there wasn’t a spot on the scorecard for how good your lunch was. To maintain the fluidity of your round, I would suggest you continue playing. Grab a Power Bar and a Gatorade and head to the 10th tee to fire away at a birdie instead of firing down “A cheeseburger, no a hamburger, I want a hotdog.” “Spalding, you’ll get nothing and like it.” (Caddyshack, 1980) Post-Round: Want some good karma for your next round? Make sure to tip the cart staff well. You have just forked out a good amount of dough to play golf for the day — what is a couple of Photo: Jesse Brown bucks to the cart staff who are trying to pay the bills? This is bound to take a few strokes off your next round. And by all means, get rid of those iron head covers. I give all cart staff permission not to clean your irons if they have covers on them.

Final Thoughts: Appreciate your friends, play in the rain, speak your mind, don’t cheat, know the rules, regrip your clubs, take a lesson, see live music, love your parents, recycle, wear sunscreen, be humble, ski fast, and take chances.

These tips can help you improve your game and your life if you take them to heart. “May the force be with you, always!”

Justin Scott is a Class “A” member of the PGA of America.

He can be reached at 307.413.3256 or jaylogolf@aol.com

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12th Annual Golf Tournament

By Bruce Burkland

Photo: Kyle Barras

This year, the Teton Youth & Family Services 12th Annual Golf Tournament to Benefit Kids will be held June 20th at Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club. All the proceeds make it possible for local children to attend the agency’s summer leadership programs.

The tournament originally started as part of the Big League Benefit, which brought baseball players like Brooks Robinson, Fergie Jenkins and Keith Moreland to the valley.

The golf tournament has become more of the focal point in recent years, allowing locals to get out and enjoy the courses while supporting Teton Youth & Family Services.

Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club, the host for the last two years, features a beautiful and challenging redesigned course. Past event hosts include Teton Pines.

300 area golfers have participated over the years, many of whom return year after year. When asked why he comes out for the tournament, local Reggie McNamara said, “Teton Youth & Family Services does more for families in this community than most people realize. This organization gives families and kids new direction. And besides, who doesn’t love to golf on a gorgeous Saturday?”

To prove McNamara’s point, Executive Director Bruce Burkland explained that all of the proceeds from the tournament support scholarships for middle school-aged children to take part in the Teton Youth & Family Services summer leadership programs as well as a full scholarship for a Red Top Meadows 21-day wilderness trip.

“Local golfers have raised over $150,000, meaning that many more children can participate in our programs,” Burkland said. “Our objective is to build resilience in youth and their families, and these leadership programs provide that. So our thanks to the golfers — and this year, to the tennis players!”

In addition to the 4-person golf scramble, a tennis tournament will also be part of the fun this year. Golf will have a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m., while tennis will be a roundrobin tournament. The scramble and round-robin formats will make it an exciting day for players of all ages and abilities. In addition to the prizes for tournament winners, the event offers exceptional silent auction items, including ski passes, golf outings, tennis lessons and fine wines.

To register, please visit www.tyfs.org or contact Bruce Burkland at 733-6440.

Teton Youth & Family Services has served the youth of our community for 32 years and includes the Hirschfield Center for Children, the Van Vleck House and Red Top Meadows. The mission of the agency is to improve children’s lives through a continuum of services ranging from prevention to residential care that addresses behavioral, emotional and/or mental health issues. Each year, the agency touches the lives of over 600 young people and their families.

To learn more about Teton Youth & Family Services, go to www.tyfs.org

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208.354.8577 www.targheevillage.com

Enjoy the nature of the Targhee Village Golf Course, nestled against the foothills of the Targhee National Forest. Located 5 miles East of Driggs, Idaho this open, 9-hole community golf course is ideal for families, yet challenging for the better golfer.

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TGR Tee-Off!

Words & Photos By Chris Bezamat

It’s the annual premiere of Teton Gravity Research’s newest offering, entitled “Mind the Addiction.” Throngs of local Jackson Hole residents and ski industry cannons gravitate to Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village, Wyoming. People mingle with their friends, share stories and drink beer while the athletes sign posters and hand out schwag (free gear) until finally, everyone takes their seats.

The place is packed. The lights dim, the crowd hushes, beers pop and the credits begin to roll. The audience is like a child looking at a present, a Labrador fixated on a tennis ball, a ski bum waking up to 15 inches of fresh. They are salivating.

The opening scene in the action sports production company’s latest film features Seth Morrison and Sage Cattabriga-Alosa clinging to an Alaskan face. Helicopters are flying, radio banter is scratchy and finally, Sage drops in. Fluid like a drop of water moving down a rocky face, Sage makes turns down this insanely steep pitch. The audience ooohs and aahs as he airs between fluted spines and, as he begins the straight line out the bottom, the crowd erupts. Every personal memory of their own past winter feats and every morsel of anticipation for the coming year explodes in a fury of screams, whistles, hooting, clapping, shouting and even tears. It touches the heart of any passionate skier.

Since 2000, the Tee-Off has been a reunion of the winter family — a time to re-establish those close personal ties we share in the mountains as we compete on a perfectly manicured golf course.

Gore-Tex and helmets turn into plaid pants and visors; ski poles are swapped for putters and drivers. Although the scenery is different, the loving competition remains the same. As one of the founding fathers of TGR, Corey Gavitt, said: “I’ve got my name on the trophy three times. This has been enjoyable because [Jeremy] Nobis is a very good golfer and obviously very competitive. So over the years we have had a lot of down days in AK where I have had the pleasure of busting his balls and driving him crazy over the fact that he had never won the trophy. So last year I was in at the clubhouse and my team had a decent score, but not good enough to win. Then I looked up and saw Nobis coming at me in his cart, waiving a scorecard.

He got out and ran straight up to me and said, ‘5 under, CG [Corey’s nickname] ... I win ... you lose’ and then raised his arms in triumph. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a person that happy in my life. It was epic.”

The pleasure of winning this event lasts the whole year, makes for jokes as we huddle in the winter wind, and further binds us together. When you take a friendship and put it into a different environment, it takes on a new meaning and goes deeper into your heart. The golf course is nearly the polar opposite of the unforgiving winter mountains, but offers the same bonding opportunities essential to the true family atmosphere that TGR has created.

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Last year’s Tee-Off was particularly exhilarating due to some unfortunate behind-the-scenes events. One of the company’s large investors decided to pull out and leave a big hole in the budget, forcing the founders to make some difficult decisions if they were to continue. Raising more capital in the face of a plummeting economy was nearly impossible, so the decision makers had to make cuts. Laying off anyone from the company must have been like firing your brother or severing an arm, and the boys in charge did not take it lightly.

Rumors around the ski industry began to fly: no movie, no premiere, no stoke. People thought TGR was going to fold. In the face of such troubled times and challenges, the founders stepped up, dropped their personal salaries and mustered up new inspiration to go out and keep following the dream. When I saw the enthusiasm in Todd Jones as I filmed side by side with him that winter in Jackson and Alaska, I knew the dream would stay alive. In the field, he was focused, persistent and cunning with his

eagerness to capture footage. In the motel rooms of the Captain’s Choice in Haines, Alaska, he was passionate as he spoke about what TGR and skiing has meant to him, all that it has taught him, and how much he loved the family that had joined the dream. His passion set a fire to everyone who was near him; his energy seeped into the veins of all involved.

When last year’s Tee-Off arrived in the fall, Jones was in the zone. It didn’t matter if it was a film project or a 20-foot putt, he was in the flow, he was in the present moment and he was where he wanted to be. The same focus it takes to choose your angle and follow the action with the camera with silky-smooth movement he brought to the course. More important than his own golfing ability and his personal contribution to the team was his determination to win and inspire others. The long game of golf can present challenges to mental stamina and, as a team, it is crucial to help each other retain focus. “I knew we would win since December,” Jones told me and I didn’t doubt that in the slightest.

Instructional Tips

from PGA Golf Professional Mark Bradley

1. Don’t Keep Your Head Down … too long. Golfers top the ball or hit it thin because they back up through the impact zone. Backing up can come in several forms. For example, you straighten up your spine on the downswing or you try and hit the ball off your back foot. If you keep your head down too long, I can guarantee you’ll back up and, as a result, either hit it thin, top it or miss the ball altogether.

Now that I’ve got your attention …

2. The object of any given swing, whether a putt or a drive, is to deliver the club head back to the ball with maximum speed at impact. If you do this, you’ll be on plane. The ball goes up, goes straight and goes far.

3. The Transition: The change of direction from the top of the backswing to the start of the downswing is called the transition. If you’re smooth through the transition, you’ll be quick at the ball. If you’re quick at the ball, you’re on plane (see #2).

4. Grip Pressure: If your grip pressure is light at the top of the backswing, you’ll be smoother through the transition and pick up 10 to 15 mph in your swing.

5. Golf is a game of opposites: If you try to hit it high, the ball will go low; if you try to hit it low, up, up, up it will go.

6. Equipment Tip: Everyone should have 2 or 3 hybrids in their bags.

Retire the 2-, 3- and 4-irons to the hearth as fireplace tools.

7. The Worse the Lie, the Firmer the Grip: There’s not a lot of club head speed in the chip shot. What speed there is, we want it at its maximum at impact (see #2). So we compensate for this by firming up our grip. This helps the club head pass through the tough greenside grass and makes for a crisper hit.

8. If you arrive late and only have a few minutes to hit some practice balls, pull out the driver and hit 10 tee shots.

9. Don’t Swing Easy: Good players hit it hard.

10. Top Swing Fault: We’ve all been taught to “Turn your shoulders!”

Now we’re overturning and our backswings have gotten too long. Your chances of delivering the club head back to the ball with maximum speed drops dramatically (see #1). Don’t get me wrong — I want you to turn your shoulders, just not too much. When your club head speed is off, you hit inconsistently and ... all over the place (again refer to #2).

Mark Bradley is a Class “A” member of the PGA of America and the Head Professional at the Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club. Available for group or private lessons by appointment, he can be reached at the club or you can call him at 307-699-2162 or e-mail him at mk2mk2@aol.com.

Photo: Neal Henderson

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Yes, Sir

By J.B. Evans

Jake had been doing it for as long as he could remember: The morning routine was alarm, snooze, alarm, shave, shower, choose unwrinkled-and-somewhat-matching clothes, breakfast, coffee, cigarette, brush teeth, commute.

When he started back in 1998, Spaulding Software was known as Spaulding Systems.

It was a computer hardware company that flourished as the dot-com boom drove profits in the PC industry skyward. Things had changed. Spaulding had moved from selling computer hardware to selling computer software.

Jake’s routine had changed, too. On his way to the shower, he stopped off in his home office to turn on the computer. He paid more attention to detail with his morning shave. He selected his work clothes more carefully. He felt a new pressure to bring his A-game to work every day. There was no more morning cigarette. He couldn’t afford it anymore and was coming to the end of what he had decided would be his last pack. The ten minutes he used to spend smoking were now the ten minutes he spent making sure he looked good for work and getting online to check the tenuous status of his bank accounts.

His financial situation was on the fast track toward certain implosion. Whereas his morning cigarette was his old secret from his wife, his recent financial problems were his new ones. She had sensed a higher level of stress from Jake recently, but had been unable to figure out the cause.

Internally, Jake was frustrated. In the days of Spaulding Systems, he had been a successful PC salesman. He worked on the floor, in a face-to-face setting, and thrived there. A likable and intelligent man, his personality was his greatest asset. He topped company sales charts each year and took pride in matching the customer’s needs with the right machine. The commissions were good and so was life. He even had time to play 18 holes now and then.

As time went on, Spaulding was unable to remain competitive in the PC market.

In an effort to save his company, Jake’s boss retooled Spaulding Systems into Spaulding Software. The retail sales area was closed and nearly half of Spaulding’s employees were laid off.

Through it all, Jake weathered the storm and did his best to adapt. Having lost his personality — his only advantage in the sales environment — things had gotten tougher for him. In this new world of phone calls and e-mail, he was a fish out of water. Slowly, his numbers and income ticked down. When the economic decline of 2009 finally hit, things started to unwind at Spaulding, and for Jake. He joined the millions of Americans struggling to make ends meet.

The next morning, Jake checked his accounts again. His house of cards was crumbling.

His wife would catch on soon. He felt especially dismal as he started his commute.

Things weren’t likely to improve at work, either. There were watercooler whispers of more layoffs. He arrived at the office more stressed than usual. His economic plight was eating at him. His cubicle walls tightened around him. He hadn’t even logged on before a tap came at his shoulder. It was Spaulding.

“In my office, Jake,” Spaulding said with a tone that was all business.

Jake figured this was it — time for the ax. He was as much relieved as he was angry.

He could stop pretending now. The pink slip would be real and he would be armed with an explanation his wife would have to accept.

Spaulding began, “Jake, you’ve worked here for a long time. I’ve always liked you.”

“Yes, sir,” Jake said meekly. He played the conversation out in his mind in a thousand different pre-imagined ways.

“Things have changed, though. The world is constantly changing, and as a business owner, I find myself constantly adapting.”

“Yes, sir.” Enough preamble, Jake thought. He wanted to be put out of his misery.

“You’ve probably heard the talk about layoffs around here, so I’ll cut to the chase. I’m letting some people go.”

“Yes, sir.”

“It’s hard for me to tell you this, but your head is on the chopping block here.”

“Yes, sir.” A new firmness entered Jake’s voice. He’d resigned himself to this some time ago. His thoughts drifted off.

“I’m giving you one last chance. You’ve always been good at the face-to-face, and as I recall, you’re not a bad golfer.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Well, you know about the Integrated products contract some of the younger guys have been working on?”

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“Yes, sir!”

“Well, Jake, the boys haven’t been able to get a good foot in the door over there. That’s where you come in. I want you to call and sweet talk Bill James, their IT guy. Invite him for a round of golf and try to sell him on our software in person. Got it?”

“Yes, sir.” In reality, Jake wasn’t sure, but he figured if he was getting laid off, he might as well get a free round of golf as severance.

himself and James wagering the contract on a closest-to-the-pin or some other farfetched wager.

Throughout the round, Jake was sincere and knowledgeable. He even hit some impressive golf shots. Still, as they set to tee off on 18, he sensed he hadn’t yet made the sale. James had listened politely, but had made no assurances.

“There’s just one last thing. With all of the problems around here, I can’t give you a company credit card for this. It’s your last chance and you’ll have to go it alone if you’re willing.”

After the last drive of the day was hit, they rolled down the cart path toward the clubhouse. Jake made his final plea, “Well, Bill. What do you think?”

“Yes, sir.” Jake gulped. He had no idea how he was going to pay for this. So much for severance.

“I couldn’t agree more, but about our security software ... I think you could really benefit from ...”

Driving home that night, he estimated the costs in his head as if he were in a Mastercard commercial. 4 green fees? $300. 4 hot dogs at the turn? $20. Enough beer to butter up Bill James? $80. Saving my job at the golf course? Hopefully, priceless.

“I like your spirit, Jake. But the fact of the matter is that we can get by for now without your product. Down the road? Who knows? But in this economic climate, we can’t afford the outlay.”

He would need $500 to complete his mission. He checked his account before bed: $807.14. He’d already sent a check for the mortgage for $800 even. That was for his February payment. Today was April 18th. Jake felt sick. He thought of his family, asleep and unaware, elsewhere in the home they barely owned. He resolved to withdraw the money from the bank. This meant his mortgage check would bounce.

His only hope was to close the deal. He called and set things up with James.

With his bank account empty and desperate, Jake was hoping to make the big sale.

James, on the other hand, saw it as a chance to get out for some free golf on the company clock. The economic downturn had affected him, but his 401(k) was still north of 7 digits, and all was well.

The next morning, Jake donned his best golf clothes and stopped by the bank to empty his account. He showed up early, paid for everything, and even had time to wash his clubs and pause to reflect on his predicament. He looked up at the sky.

James arrived as Jake was putting and chipping. He was rusty. “Bill! How’s it going?” Jake asked. “Glad you could make it. The cart’s over here.” The faceto-face had always been his strength.

In his mind that afternoon, he imagined all of the ways he might close the deal. In some daydreams, he was irresistibly witty in conversation. In others, he was straightforward and confident. In yet others, he imagined

“It’s a great course! Thanks for the round, Jake.”

“Yes, sir. Maybe down the road,” Jake mumbled. He wondered what he would do now. What would he tell Spaulding? His wife? Lost in thought, James’ last sentence barely registered with him.

“No, Jake, we can’t use your software right now, but our sales division always needs another good man.”

“I’m sorry, sir? What was that?”

“Our sales division needs more guys like you. Too many of our guys sit around on their computers all day following a thousand dead leads. You showed unique initiative today. And even though you didn’t make the sale, your effort and sincerity were over the top. You were professional too, always saying ‘yes, sir’ and all.”

“Yes, sir.” Jake smiled. James laughed.

“I’m not making you any guarantees. It’s a tough market for everything out there right now. But I can get you a shot on our sales force if you want it.”

“Sure, Bill,” Jake said quietly. It wasn’t what Jake had expected. A future in any type of sales was bound to be a struggle. His mortgage check would still surely bounce. But for now, it would have to do.

Driving back down the freeway, he took a deep drag from a cigarette and exhaled. For the second time that day, he looked up at the sky, reflecting on the week’s events. He smiled, knowing his loving wife awaited him at home. Job or no job, money or no money, Jake was still alive, and for now, that would have to do.

The Skinny With Mr. Crow After a great story with Tom Crow in the first issue of the Jackson Hole Golfer Magazine, I was honored when the amateur golf champion and founder of Cobra Clubs agreed to sit down with me and share his thoughts on Tiger Woods’ return. Coming from a gentleman who has a personal relationship with Tiger, I knew I was in for a treat.

After eight months off from the game of golf due to a recent knee surgery, Tiger was due to make his return at The Doral Open on the weekend of our interview.

Like myself and the rest of the golfing world, Crow was anxious to watch him play, but was more amazed by Tiger’s mindset and the way he handles the constant criticism about possibly coming back too soon. When Tiger was asked in a recent interview, “Do you think you’re 100 percent ready to play? If not, what percent would you say you were at?” Tiger replied, “I’m ready to win, that’s why I’m here! Next question?”

Crow was very confident that Tiger was ready to come back and compete to win. “Never once did you sense from Tiger [in the interview] that he was afraid, nervous or even questioning the fact that his knee would hold up,” the Jackson Hole resident explained. “You see, to me, he’s a unique personality. I am amazed by and respect Tiger Woods for the way he goes about his personal life, and how he is always his own person.”

Crow cited Tiger’s speech at the 2009 presidential inauguration of Barack Obama. “For example, never once during his speech does Tiger mention President Obama, nor did he congratulate him for becoming the first African American president,” Crow said. “Instead, Tiger spent the entire time giving praise to his family, the U.S. troops for all their efforts in protecting the safety of our country, and he finished with an introduction of the U.S. Naval Glee Club.”

“I am amazed by and respect Tiger Woods for the way he goes about his personal life, and how he is always his own person.”

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Words By Michael Bills

Photos By Rick Armstrong

“Take a look,” Crow said laughing as he handed me a copy of the speech entitled, “You’ll Never Walk Alone”: “I grew up in a military family and my role models in life were my mom and Dad, Lt. Colonel Earl Woods. My dad was a Special Forces operator and many nights friends would visit our home. They represented every branch of the service, and every rank.

In my dad, and in those guests, I saw firsthand the dedication and commitment of those who serve. They come from every walk of life, from every part of our country. Time and again, across generations, they have defended our safety in the dark of night and far from home.

Each day — and particularly on this historic day — we honor the men and women in uniform who serve our country and protect our freedom. They travel to the dangerous corners of the world, and we must remember that for every person who is in uniform, there are families who wait for them to come home safely.

I am honored that the military is such an important part, not just of my personal life, but of my professional one as well.

The golf tournament we do here in Washington is a testament to those unsung heroes.

I am the son of a man who dedicated his life to his country, family and the military and I am a better person for it.

In the summer of 1864, Abraham Lincoln, the man at whose memorial we stand, spoke to the 164th Ohio Regiment and said: ‘I am greatly obliged to you, and to all who have come forward at the call of their country.’

Just as they have stood tall for our country we must always stand by and support the men and women in uniform and their families.

Thank you, and it is now my pleasure to introduce the U.S. Naval Glee Club.”

has taken him somewhere in the world to meditate.”

The former Australian Amateur golf champion attributes Tiger’s sharp mindset and smarts to the practice of meditation. “I know he didn’t graduate from college yet, although I think he will for his mother,” Crow said. “But did you know that when Tiger was at Stanford, he went to school on an academic scholarship, not an athletic scholarship?”

Crow also informed me that Tiger spends a lot of time with other famous athletes like tennis sensation Roger Federer and baseball great Derek Jeter. “They all seem to have the same mindset. They feed off of each other. They all have things to offer each other’s psyche,” he said. “For example, when Tiger hits a bad shot, you see him get so mad, but by the next shot, it’s gone, nothing. Or when he does something wrong during his swing, he immediately feels it, fixes it and he never needs to be corrected!

Now, that’s discipline!”

Making reference to the mixed ethnicity of Tiger’s mother and father, Crow joked, “Tiger has an Asian brain with an African body; he’s so smart and also so strong. He’s an ethnic cocktail!” Crow went on to quote three-time British Open Champion Henry Cotton, who said prophetically, “One day, a black man will come along and dominate the game of golf.”

Now that Crow had me all fired up about Tiger’s return and anticipating the Doral Open, he leaned over to tell me one more tidbit. “Did you know that while playing at Stanford, he used to use Greg Norman’s spare drivers?” Crow asked. “Which happened to be Cobra Clubs, of course! Now how’s that for a story?” he said with a wink and a smile.

After reading Tiger’s words, I looked up to see Crow still smiling at me. “Now, it wasn’t meant to be derogatory that he didn’t mention Obama,” he said. “Tiger will tell you himself he’s not a political man, but his father always taught him how important the military really was.”

Unfortunately, Tiger did not win the Doral Open that week, but he did manage to come back from 35th place and finish 9th overall. Soon after, Tiger did go on to win Arnold Palmer’s Bay Invitational, triumphing in dramatic fashion by sinking a 50foot putt on his final shot of the 72nd hole. In this writer’s opinion, that’s amazing for his first two comeback tournaments. I’d also say it’s fair warning to the rest of the PGA players: Tiger’s back!

Crow went on to tell me more about the golfing legend. “As a child, Tiger was always well spoken, although he never really did talk much; when he did, it was worth listening to,” he said. “Since Tiger was a young boy, and still to this day, his mother

For those of you who are not familiar with Tom Crow and his relationship to the game of golf, be sure to check out last year’s issue of the Jackson Hole Golfer Magazine @ www.jhgolfermagazine.com, and be sure to read “Tom Crow: King of Clubs.”

A Major Milestone

Words & Photo By Ryan Knaeble

As a graduate with honors of San Diego Golf Academy, I was given the opportunity to be a 2008 U.S. Open Ambassador at San Diego’s Torrey Pines — the first true municipal golf course to host an Open in its 108-year history and the longest at 7,643 yards. Simply being at a major tournament was a dream realized; getting paid to attend was even better.

a ball on the green and one-handedly sink every putt. Then he would switch hands and do it again. Most of the time, he walked around the green messing with the other pros, hitting balls at them or joking around with them. But Tiger’s discipline and drive were evident when he jogged the course daily before most of the players were even awake, and was, without fail, the first to tee off during the practice rounds.

I had always wanted to see a major firsthand and experience the excitement I imagined no television set could capture. I missed my first chance to see one live at the age of 14 when my home state of Minnesota hosted the 1991 U.S. Open. My uncle invited me to accompany him to Hazeltine in Chaska, but a baseball tournament prevented me from being there. My sister, Raini, went in my place and not only witnessed Payne Stewart beat Scott Simpson in an 18-hole playoff, but came back with the winning ball autographed by Stewart himself!

Once my duties as an ambassador were complete, it was time to relax and follow the players around the course during Thursday’s qualifying round. After attending the Buick Classic a couple of months before (also at Torrey Pines), I knew of some great places to sit and watch a few holes simultaneously. Hole 13 was one of my favorites to hang out on. It played 614 yards from the new tee box. I played the course from the tips before the Buick and was amazed at how long it played. On 13, just clearing the burly canyon was a 245-yard carry.

It was obvious to me then what I had lost out on, but 2008 was my year to make up for it.

The superintendent and the grounds crew did an amazing job preparing the course for U.S. Open conditions. The fairways were mowed toward the greens, rewarding the players with some extra yardage for hitting the landing zone. The rough was really rough — it was mowed toward the tee boxes and was around 5 inches deep. The greens were rolling at around 13 on the Stimpmeter, which was pretty slick.

An ambassador’s duties include giving out directions, protecting the players on the driving range, and holding the ropes to make sure no one enters the practice green, which was my job. Immediately to the side of the practice green was a gate leading to the locker room that was protected by two police officers and a couple of security guards. I was fifty feet behind them on the green, making sure no one jumped the fence or did anything else that tested the boundaries of good behavior. Since none of the spectators did anything intolerable, my “work” Monday through Wednesday at the Open consisted of spending six hours a day chatting with the pros and their caddies and watching them practice putting in preparation for the long weekend ahead.

Each golfer’s own style was striking. Phil Mickelson was very serious and diligent. He had all sorts of gadgets, mirrors, tape measures and drills. Tiger Woods’ style was the most lax.

He would have five balls in his left hand and individually drop

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Without a doubt, Torrey Pines was not an easy course. The greens were poanna, a type of grass known for eliciting groans from unhappy pros due to its patchy growth and tendency to get very bumpy in the later part of the day. Of U.S. Open courses, Tiger has been quoted as saying, “No ten-handicapper can break a hundred on this course under USGA regulations.” So, a contest was held to see if it could be done.

John Atkinson, a regular guy from Nebraska, was picked from 5,300 applicants’ essays on why he should be in the challenge. He shot a 114. Indeed, Tiger was right!

After 4 days of ridiculous golf, it came down to Tiger and Rocco Mediate in what would prove to be one of the most memorable U.S. Opens in history, and one that has been called a “duel for the ages.” Tiger needed a birdie on 18 to force Mediate into an 18-hole playoff and he did — fifty feet away from my friends and me. What a putt, what a day! Tiger and Mediate ended up tied after 18 playoff holes and then to a sudden-death playoff, where they went to Hole 7. Mediate bogeyed and Tiger parred.

Even with a broken leg and a torn knee, Tiger still managed to triumph.

Never is the respect for the game of golf and its competitors more apparent than when sitting among a group of thousands in perfect silence as a player tees off.

Maybe that is what I will remember most about Torrey Pines. Or maybe it will be the thrill of hearing the crowds roar in the distance as I sat in the 18th hole bleachers, fully aware that the only thing that could evoke cheers like that had to have been a birdie from Tiger. Or maybe it will be the hours my friends and I spent bonding with people we didn’t know in the stands, taking turns buying beers when cups went dry or protecting seats for strangers-turned-friends just as passionate about the game as we are.

Like my sister 17 years before me, I had finally experienced the magic of being at a major. It was worth the wait.

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