NEGM Top 25 Issue - May 2012 by New England Golf Monthly

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TIGER WOODS

PHIL MICKELSON

BUBBA WATSON

WEBB SIMPSON

RORY McILROY

LUKE DONALD

RICKIE FOWLER

LEE WESTWOOD

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From the Editor Elementary My Dear Watson

CONTENTS

The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson

A Bulldog Wins The Masters Not A Tiger

There could not be more of a contrast between them, Tiger Woods a Southern California prodigy who began his life of golf fame and fortune on the Johnny Carson show over 3 decades ago and Bubba Watson grew up in Bagdad, Florida where there is more cotton than golf. While both were sons of two decorated Green Beret Veterans, their lives were, in many ways, complete opposites. At the Masters this year everyones favorite was Tiger, but how it turned out may have been even better for the game of golf. Gerry Lester Watson Jr. (named Bubba at birth after Bubba Smith) was born in 1978 just north of Pensacola, Florida in a region better known as the Panhandle. At a very young age Bubba spent countless hours swatting a plastic ball around the back yard of his home with a cutoff 6 iron his Dad gave him. Life in Southwest Florida was a bit different than Southern California. For one, there were lots of golf courses in California and plenty of public access facilities. In Bagdad, Florida there were a few but Bubbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dad, Lt. Gerry Watson, had access to one, The A.C. Reed facility in Pensacola on the base. It was almost 12 years ago when I first met Bubba Watson at Stonebrook Golf Club, a popular local course just minutes from his home in Pace, Florida. Each day in the summer a group of local golfers would pick up teams for a daily Nassau. There were some great players mixed in with locals, Bubba, Boo Weekley and occasionally Jerry & Steve Pate. It was some of best fun I have ever had playing golf and it was always LOL funny. Bubba hit the ball a mile, the running joke at the club, he hit it so hard is would disappear, and he still does. For all of the great folks I have played golf with in the Panhandle, Bubbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s win at the Masters is the greatest thing since 1982 when Jerry Pate jumped in the lake after winning the Players Championship. It is a win for the regular golfing folk, the weekend duffers and the 9 hole a week league players and the masses of the game that rarely break 100. Thanks Bubba for the heroic shot out of woods, (we all have been there) thanks for the emotion too because it tells us all you are one of us. Its a great win for the game of golf.

Good Looks on the Course

by Elle Brec

Couple of Travelers

by Alice and Danny Scott

Celebrity Golfer

by Leigh MacKay

by Jack Ross

Molori Unplugged

Ross' Rulings

by John Molori

Reviews from the Tee

by Emily Kay

Top 25 Awards 2012

Take a Load Off

by Ed Travis

Two Good Rounds

Gorman vs. Geary

by Elisa Gaudet

New England Golf Monthly The New England Publishing Group, Inc.

P.O. Box 357 Swansea, MA 02777 800-736-9020

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May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 7

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The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson

Top 25 Over-the-Top Ideas for Golf Addicts Hedonistic Escape Mind, spirit and body come together at e Lodge at Woodloch in Pennsylvania, in a stunning nature-rich setting close to New Jersey and New York. It’s luxury all the way from the spa, fitness facilities and soaking pools to the Tree restaurant and Woodlock Springs Golf Course. Hike, fish, swim, golf, T’ai Chi — go for it.

Posture Perfect Serious business. Shoulders back. Discrete. Tight. Are those your muscles working or the IntelliSkin? Wear to gym, to the golf club. Who doesn’t want to look more fit, taller? It’s the posture workout you wear. Your secret. No one will ever know that under your faded circa 70s polo lies power. $95 Spa Caviar Pearls and caviar? Why not? Caviar extracts and pearl powder are known to improve skin elasticity and suppleness, reduce fine lines and wrinkles by improving cell metabolism and increasing firming action. Available in treatments many spas including Suddenly Slimmer Day Spa, Phoenix and Beau Rivage Resort Spa, Biloxi, Ms. (No it’s not Beluga).

Electric Golf Cart Speaking of fun. e Hummer H2 Golf Cart based on the military’s HMMWV, or Humvee at $19,999 and licensed by GM, is a very smart way to go. It has polished chrome wheels, cooler, seat storage, head and brake lights and classic boxy style — dare we say “cute.” You’ll love it in red and at 20 mph, no speeding tickets.

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Ultimate Dress Watch No vague uncertainly about the time with the L.U.C. Quattro by Chopard. You will get you to your tee time on the nose. Your Chopard is Swiss-made after all. Shockingly simple with classic round face, 39 jewels, 18-carat rose qold case, water-resistant and hand-stitched alligator strap. $25,000 (maybe less, maybe more)

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Walkies It’s a fact: walking 18 holes carrying a bag is equal to a five-mile walk or a 4-mile run. Using Sun Mountain’s KG:2 SuperLight stand bag can make the whole process like a walk in the park. With the E-Z Fit Dual Strap System, it’s a breeze to carry but if the heat gets to you, it has a friendly cart-friendly bottom (just like you).

Soul Searching Linksoul is not just a golf shirt. It’s you dancing in the rain; feeling good; being you. It’s fireflies on a dark night; early sun catching dew on the green. From John Ashworth (who we all know) they say it’s more of a philosophy than a brand. Designs are thought provoking and look very au courant under a jacket.

Round with Dimples The Nike 20XI could just be the most expensive ball on the market sending you clamoring down gulches to retrieve it after errant shots. Why may you ask? A dozen could set you back $55-$60 per dozen or $5 per ball. But then it promises to give you more distance off the tee and better control around the greens — it’s all about its low core technology.

Let it Rain It won’t make you look crisp like a piece of toast. Who wants to look like a piece of toast anyway in this age of on-the-move-tech style? Relaxed, confident, cool, dry. Now we’re talking. It’s the Hoy Lake Jacket by ZeroRestriction at $395. GORETEX, breathable, flexible and waterproof even in a howling British gale. Pair with pants at $235-$295. Spa Sounds Tune into Zen Sound Therapy at Vermont’s Stowe Mountain Lodge with its Sacred Healing Treatment. Sitting on a carbon-fiber chair while experiencing your rituals allows you to hear and feel the music as tones resonate through the water in your body. Attain a relaxed, balanced, center state as Reiki rituals do their magic. (80 minutes/$225)

Face Off Pure and bubbly on your face? Sure. Just choose the Champagne Facial at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. It gives you protection against free radicals, invigorates your skin and softens fine lines. ($150) Or skip the facial and go for a bottle of Dom Perignon in the Lobby Lounge with your best squeeze.

May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 9

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Tee-Terrific Ladies, no way you’ll be taken for a shrinking violet with Kate Lord’s printed ¾ sleeve specialty cotton tees. ey’re bold, fun with tropical yet contemporary golf designs, perfect on and oﬀ the courses. With a bit of spandex stretch, did we mention sexy? ($76)

Camouflage your Habits Carrying your iPad around in a Prada Camo Saﬃano Case will surely impress your pals with its green camouflage-print calf leather cover and silver hardware. And really good news, besides being made in Italy, if you get lost in enemy territory in the jungle, your iPod will be really hard to see in this case. ($595)

Golf Bag is one will only bite your wallet. Custom-made alligator golf bags by Dann come in five colors. Available for women too including pink and purple. Who knew there were pink alligators? Purple maybe.

Putter Envy You’ll be getting the shaft and loving it with Barth & Sons’ First Lady Special Edition custom made in Germany. e shaft is 24 caret gold, the leather grip is pink, and the head is inlaid with diamonds. is bit of bling costs $150,000. Putters for Real Men Ben Curtis was using a Studio Select Newport 2 when he won this year’s Valero Texas Open, Brad Faxon works a Laguna 2.5 ''FaxDay'' and Rory McILroy uses a GSS Newport Prototype — all Scotty Cameron putters. Need we say more? Scotty Cameron putters like the new sleek Select putters are right up there with clear starry nights and California surfing. Group Squeeze You will not find a better place for your favorite peeps to play and stay than in Milligan Manor. an eight-bedroom cabin at Fairmont’s Jasper Park Lodge, BC Canada. Your gang will have all the privacy they need in Jasper’s luxury log digs with a lofty wildlife-themed great room overlooking a Stanley ompson classic track and a probably a roaming elk or two.

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Club Power Leave it to the golf-crazed Japanese to come up with the pricey Maruman Majesty Prestigio Golden Premium Series. e driver’s polished titanium head is ion-plated to pure gold. Also go for gold with the Majesty Prestigio Gold Premium irons. e price? Don’t ask. ink thousands.

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Big Puﬀ Cigar-speak is much like wine-speak with terms like “aging, year, full-bodied, spicy, hearty and soil composition.” One of the rarest of them all the Partagas Limited Reserve Decadas is a blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan tobacco with a 10-year old Cameroon wrapper. And oh yes, women smoke cigars too. (about $350 for a box of 20)

Top of Myrtle’s Bucket List Out of all the 100 plus courses in Myrtle Beach, one must-play is Caledonia Golf & Fish Club on Pawley’s Island. From the time you drive in along the live-oak-lined road, you are in for an exceptional day of golf. It’s the most expensive public course in the area but spring for it. Savor it.

Belt it Out Brad Faxon wears e White Belt so do many other tour players. Interchangeable buckles are hand-crafted, leather color straps are in exotic bright colors and designs are way sharp. e belts are so cool it’s hard to remember they have a practical side to them.

Puma Power Getting in the groove with crossover golf footwear, Puma’s new golf shoes can swing from green to boardroom with grace. Worn by Rickie Fowler where the vibrant oranges, limes and and other brilliant colors complement his flamboyant persona, take a peek at his Limited Edition Super Cell Ice Fusion shoe. ($250). Sack & Pillage ere is treasure in your future. Add sparkle to your game with Kate Lord's Crystal Hat Clips in glittery designs. Reveal the inner you with motifs like martini glasses, cards, wine glasses, and a Scottie dog.

May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 11

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12 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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Good Looks on the Course

Functionalizing your Golf Attire

by Elle Brec

Many golf apparel companies have a mantra along the lines of look good, feel good, play good. Sounds so simple until choosing what to buy and the complicated descriptions of technology versus natural fibers, which accessories are necessary for weather changes, and worrying about your overall appearance. All shirts have a function, a design, a style, and a certain way of performing, we must sift through the slogans to figure out what is at the core of the brand’s apparel. e key is prioritizing three categories Design Diﬀerences, Climate Control, and Style Statements, to your personal preferences in a way so you know what is most important to you. If you don’t know where to start, think about your favorite apparel worn most often and figure out why.

Design Differences Design Diﬀerences are the first category and in this case, we are not referring to a pattern but rather the overall design of the shirt. Do you prefer

a certain cut, feel, sleeve length, does it matter to you the seams of the shirt or where the tags and logos are located, or is a shirt just a shirt?

Martin When purist Rick Martin speaks with his cheerful, thick Dallas accent, it is evident that he is passionate for quality products, especially golf apparel. Two years ago, Martin received a call from his daughter Teresa, convincing him, “Most of the industry has moved toward technical performance fabrics, and natural fiber apparel is no longer available. We really need you to come back.” For Martin, too much modern golf apparel has strayed from the traditional path to which he adheres. "I remember watching last year's U.S. Open,

looking at the tour players competing for the win, and being struck by the contrived look of their outfits," recalls Martin. “e outfits had such a 'costume' feel, and also a stifling uniformity. Each piece clearly designed to be worn only with pieces from the same collection. It’s great for TV but not my foursome.” Martin, with 40 years experience in the garment industry, retired from his former company Fairway and Greene a few years back, agreed to return to the golf fashion industry. Frustrated with the feeling of polyester on his skin and New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 13

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knowing many club members share his sophisticated preference. Martin’s focus is not the nuances of trends rather his premise is the customer that wants a high quality shirt all the time, that works well with everything else in his closet. "My idea of golf fashion is rooted in watching legends like Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan – gentlemen who always looked well put together, but never contrived. To that end, my goal is to create elegant, stylish but versatile garments that are related, but can be worn with anything. is, in addition to my commitment to using only natural fibers – no synthetics, no pieced-together garments – is one of the cornerstones of what Martin Golf Apparel is all about." e 2012 collections are perfect illustrations of Martin Golf Apparel's ability and commitment to blend timelessness and tradition. e British Regimental Collection, for Old Scotsman himself Martin always loved the British heraldries, employs a color palette inspired by vintage military uniforms, backed up by and blended with distinctive clarifying colors

with bold crimson and dark navys. In keeping with Martin's commitment to ensuring that no garment in the 2012 line is restricted to its own collection, Martin takes special pride in the way pieces from the British Regimental collection can be paired with those of the Charcoal Classics Collection. is collection features many of the same colors, but highlights them with Light and Dark Charcoal shades to create a natural contrast mélange that illuminates light and dark fabrics. Finally, the Vineyard Collection specializes in natural earth-like tones of sand, sunflower, plum, and tangerine. With their commitment to tradition, all-natural fibers and colors, and selling exclusively in just the finest private golf clubs, we're ensuring that their customers can benefit from the latest results of our ongoing quest for perfection – results that truly live up to the standards of Martin’s product design that being 'as Timeless As e Game'." For more information on Martin Golf Apparel, visit them at www.martingolfapparel.com.

Catwalk

Ladies let’s face it, we’re beautiful so we want apparel to accentuate our body types. New this spring from Catwalk Performance Artwear is excited to debut the Relaxed Fit as an option for some of their shirts. ey have the same Catwalk styling, the same curves to emphasize the waist, with a little more room in the bust and hip area. is Spring Catwalk features three fresh new collections: e Navy Lime, the Black and White and the Black and Yellow. You don’t have to be a Wiz to know black and yellow are a great combination for when you roll up to the greens. We never get caught walking around drenched in sweat like some guys would. It doesn’t mean we aren’t as athletic, we just use tactics to avoid it. Catwalk Artwear is attire you feel can comfortable and stylish in all day. One tactic Catwalk uses is shirts with two layers of fabric, plus a built in support to hide chest sweat.

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Same with their bottom skorts, built with an extra layer underneath. Playing golf with clients at Newport National in Rhode Island one morning, time constrained me from changing for a corporate outing in Newport but still fit right in with a business casual environment. Or maybe you’re foursome is planning on having a nice lunch with the ladies after your game, but your busy schedule will not allow for time to shower and change in the locker room. Catwalk Performance Artwear is the brainchild of artist and golfer Lauren Demerling and business partner Sima Anvari. Debuting in 2006, their vision was to create a women’s line that not only celebrated the female form, but was as comfortable as it was practical. Check out the entire line at catwalkartwear.com and to purchase visit desertgolfconnection.com.

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Climate Control Climate Control is the next category due to the facts that some people sweat more than others, some don’t mind walking around in the rain, some people want to be tanned, and others want to stay out of the sun. If you are

the type of person that wears just a t-shirt all year long, chances are you are not sensitive to this category. Define how sensitive you are to your surrounding elements and plan your wardrobe accordingly.

Iconic Sport

Leslie Chow is an extremely intelligent and talented engineer whose company Iconic Sport continues to sell out of her popular designs. e apparel is engineered to enhance golf performance with design features such as shoulder ease for unrestricted movement during the golf swing, a trim waistline fit to avoid interference when putting, ContourFit™ length contouring, and functional pockets at the right height, cut to the right depth. All of our bottoms have rear scorecard pockets. eir cargo pocket accommodates balls, tees and tools during the round but lies flat after the round because of its center gusset pleat. Iconic maximizes the tremendous advances in fabric technology with resilient stretch and recovery fabrics to accommodate the golf swing and avoid excess material which means no more baggy knees, sagging backside or baggy shirts that catch on the putter, as well as moisture management perspiration wicking for hot days, UV protection and anti-microbial/anti-odor finishes. Perhaps the most important feature of the apparel is the 50+ UV protection for those who should avoid sun exposure but still love to

play golf. eir sunsleeves are perfect for a lightweight protection against the sun on hot days. Iconic believes in using quality materials, thoughtful design, careful construction and high quality finish detail. Manufactured in the San Francisco Bay Area and dedicated to maintaining high quality standards, good working conditions and to keeping our team and our customers happy. Made of micro-polyester, they select their production partners for quality, not for the lowest cost. Iconic Sport apparel is designed to be stylish, appropriate on the course, and around town. Design for sophisticated style, their concept is clean, unfussy, with a great fit plus trim, textile and detail interest. It is all in the balance of fun textile designs and colors, and fresh design details. However comfort is the most important factor when designing the apparel. ey are attentive to seam placement, fabric feel, wicking, temperature regulation, stretch and recovery to maintain sizing through the round and throughout the day as well as golf-specific performance. New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 15

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Style Statements e Style Statements last but not least category referring to whether you lean towards bold expressions or simplistic looks. ere is something to be said about style points, from the way a great shot

was made to the accessories that tie the look together. As long as you reflect your personal style, you will feel comfortable, and the better you feel, the better you play.

Travis Mathew

Travis Mathew congratulated Bubba Watson on becoming the 2012 Masters Champion and provided matching Travis Mathew championship outfit for his son Caleb, complete with a mini green jacket. ey have sold out of their 100 Limited Edition “e Masters” packages, worn by Bubba Watson all four rounds at Augusta. is was the first installment of the “Travis Mathew and Bubba Watson Grand Slam Drive for Charity” in conjunction with “Bubba and Friends Drive to a Million.”100% of the proceeds made from these limited edition pieces are donated directly to Fresh Start, an organization that provides cosmetic reconstructive surgery for children with physical defects or disabilities. Additionally, because of your unwavering support and due to the fact that TM sold out of the 100 Masters packages, an additional $50,000 will be donated to the City of Hope, a California based cancer research center housing one of the nation’s top independent biomedical, treat-

16 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

ment and education institutions! e Travis Mathew line attracted attention immediately with their stylish statements and outfit about ten professional tour players. Travis Mathew is a fresh and progressive brand of golf apparel that features an exclusive line of lifestyle wear and accessories. Based in Southern California, the company has evolved to meet the demands of today’s active consumer by blending style, function, performance and innovative design. Inspired by fashion, sports, music, and art, the Travis Mathew brand is an expression of the lifestyles inherent to its Southern California roots. Reflecting the brand’s vision of consistently providing diversity for an industry choked with homogenized styles and fits, Travis Mathew’s unique theme was long overdue in the golf-apparel market. Made from quality materials, their polo shirts are 60% pima cotton and 40% polyester creating a blend between comfort and technology. It is available at Golfers Warehouse and travismathew.com.

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Birdy & Grace

Maria Laura Elvira has been sporting Birdy & Grace since 2010. A top Argentine golfer from Buenos Aires, Maria Laura has won numerous championships in South America, currently making her mark on the Futures Tour and frequently a commentator on Golf Channel (Latin America). She recently said, "Birdy & Grace changed my golf image and I love it. Because of it's unique and fun style, I feel younger and always in fashion." Jane Park, LPGA joined the Birdy & Grace team in 2009. As a 16 year-old Jane reached the finals of the U.S. Women's Amateur Championship and the following year to the finals of the U.S. Girls' Junior Championship. She later won the U.S. Women's Amateur Championship. During her first full year

on the LPGA Tour, Jane finished 29th on the money list with four top-10 finishes including ties for second at the SBS Open at Turtle Bay and P & G NW Arkansas Championship. Jane continues to shine on the Ladies Tour (T9 for eagles!) and always looks great in Birdy & Grace. "I love Birdy & Grace because of the vibrant colors they use in their extremely fashionable clothes that are very comfortable as well!" "I am a huge fan of their new riding pant styletrouser for golf. They actually give shape to awomans lower half but without looking inappropriate or as if your wearing your lululemon yoga pants" says Win McMurry, Sportscaster/Writer and Birdy & Grace's Industry Spokesperson.

New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 17

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18 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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New England Golf Monthly | May 2012 | 19

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Couple of Travelers by Alice and Danny Scott

Bogota: On Top of the World

Elevation elation is the natural high in Bogota, Colombia. While not at the top of many wish lists, it will surely climb higher, in spite of recent antics in coastal Cartagena. PGA star Camilo Villegas has put Colombia back on the map attracting positive attention. e Nationwide tour is also elevating in status as the qualifying mechanism for very strong players to move up or return to the PGA tour. Its first tournament of the year played out at e Country Club of Bogota, garnering much media with the participation of Ex-President Bill Clinton. He kicked oﬀ the proam with a vicious duck hook. Yes, Democrats, it went far left. His second shot was a good recovery and he escaped with his service team unscathed by scandals. Walking and biking keep people healthy and out of traﬃc congestion. Hiring a driver for distance is the

best way to commute and view the sights of this magnificent city with over 8 million inhabitants. Garage type doors open to the street revealing the meat market, shoe shop, bakery, and beauty salon all in a row. A side street turn becomes a long path past a polo ranch and suddenly, San Andres Country Club pops up like Grand Central Park, where a Gran Telenovela (soap opera) was being filmed. e Robert Trent Jones, Sr. course is parkland style with no evidence of the surrounding city. e spa like aroma of the tall eucalyptus and cedar trees wafts through the air. e fairways are green, greens are fast and like all courses there, everyone walks. Caddies carry bags, rake bunkers and disclose course secrets. After nine beautiful holes, we were invited for “refrigerio.” No dog at the turn here, rather scrumptious entrees and exotic fruit juices for the stan-

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dard ten minute break. It is ok to leave food on the plate or you couldn’t swing on the tenth tee, however it is not easy to resist every bite of the fresh and flavorful Colombian cuisine. Rincon Golf Club of Cajica was flooded last year but restored to playability with RTJ Jr. redesigning larger water features and drainage for future protection. e filet mignon for lunch matches Ruth’s Chris. Golf courses are private but tour companies book exceptions for travelers. Www.colombia.travel.com will make all arrangements. Request Ron Garl’s redesigned Club Guaymaral where special attention is paid to brilliant horticulture. We never expected the altiplano of the Andes to be so tropical, yet more flowers are exported from Colombia than anywhere except Holland. e elegant facilities, finest chefs and equestrian center create an elitist country club at Guaymaral. Play golf in the morning; tour in the afternoon. Contrasting the 8600 feet altitude of Bogota, journey to the center of the earth, or at least 280 feet below to e Salt Cathedral where Stations of the Cross are carved into the cavern. Brides are carried down by cart while the groom walks the long path symbolizing the burden he is about to bear. Funny sentiment but the incredible sculptures and lighting are inspirational. So too are the Pre Colombian artifacts at the Gold Mu-

seum in the Calendaria district. Architecture in the presidential plaza invokes an impulse to call your high school Spanish teacher. Ride the cable car to the monastery of Montserrate for exquisite dining above the city lights. Forget resorts but enjoy the Grand House with a small lobby, large rooms and ultimate showers, just a short walk to Parque 93 where families frolic, promenade and dine. A high rise hotel served as a prank driving range for Notah Begay and associates, teeing oﬀ to a turf mat in the park. Don’t try this at home as lawyers would line up for errant shots. Save La Cima Golf Club, the second highest course in the world at over 10,000 feet, for last when your body is well adjusted to the altitude. You don’t have to tee it high to let it fly. Enjoy the distance and panoramic views of farms, lakes and the Andes Mountains. e Colombian tourism slogan is “e only risk is in wanting to stay.” Caution is required anywhere we travel but indeed many Americans move to Bogota after falling in love with the climate, cuisine and culture. Wake up and smell the Colombian coﬀee. It’s not just about romancing the stone. ough the emeralds make great souvenirs, lifetime memories are an even richer keepsake. Use common sense that the secret service didn’t and you’ll be on top of the world

Golf Travel | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012 | 21

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Celebrity Golfer: Billy Casper

by Leigh MacKay

“Billy Casper is the most underrated golfer of all time, hands down. He won 51 times on the PGA Tour. Only six players in history have won more, and Casper did it against some of the best golfers of any era.” Johnny Miller, certainly, has never been one to mince words. His evaluation, therefore, of one of the most successful golfers from 1955-77 requires some reflection. And when the US Open returns to The Olympic Club, expect the media to echo Miller’s sentiment as it retells Casper’s second Open victory in 1966—the first at Winged Foot in 1959—and how he made up a seven-stroke deficit against Arnold Palmer in the final nine holes. Palmer, who, in the early 1960’s, had launched golf ’s golden age along with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, was undisputedly The King, and Casper’s victory, although well deserved, was not a popular one. In addition, Palmer, Nicklaus, and Player, with their frequent victories and vigorous personalities, had been touted as “The Big Three” because of the promotional genius of Mark McCormack. Ironically, Casper, who sometimes appeared aloof and reserved and conservative, much like his role model Ben Hogan, had signed with McCormack in 1959 but left IMG two years later over marketing differences. Casper, who had no peer on and around the greens, also won the 1970 Masters. He was the leading money winner twice, the PGA Player of the Year twice, the Vardon Trophy winner five times, and a Ryder Cup player eight times (earning 23.5 points, the most ever for an American). His induction into the World Hall of Fame in 1978 and the PGA Hall of Fame in 1982, and his ranking in 2000 by “Golf Digest” as the 15th greatest golfer of all time should, therefore, come as no surprise. Finally, Billy Casper, now 80, has set his own record straight in his forthright, anecdotal, and droll autobiography, appropriately titled “The Big Three

22 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

and Me.” He details his lonely and impoverished youth, saved only by his many hours at the San Diego CC, where he caddied frequently and chipped and putted incessantly. He explains how his marriage to Shirley and his love for his 11 children (six adopted) encouraged him to become a Mormon to build, strengthen, and unify his family concept. His account of life on Tour is remarkable for its historical content. With great humor he recounts both his exotic diet of buffalo, caribou, elk, hippo, and bear and the nickname of “Buffalo Billy” that became the trademark for his current golf course management company, Billy Casper Golf, and one of its divisions, Buffalo Communications, the PR, branding, and marketing arm. There is far more to Casper’s life in the book than just his PGA Tour achievements By the way, “The Big Three and Me” has a foreword from the Big Three themselves. They wrote, “It could have been The Big Four.” NEGM: What is the Victory 51 Tour you are now undertaking? BC: Primarily it is a way for me to travel around the country and get “The Big Three and Me” into as many hands as possible. It’s set up as a Q&A session and a book signing so people can spend an evening with me. NEGM: What can you tell us about Paul Harney? BC: Paul was a great friend. He and I were playing a practice round one time, and we got to a par3. I said, “Paul, your hands are a little low; raise

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them up toward your chin.” He did and got a holein-one! By the way, I have a number of great friends who are from New England. Two are 49ers QB Steve Young, who came from East Hartford, and Danny Ainge, GM of the Celtics, with whom I played a lot of golf when he was at BYU. NEGM: What were your favorite New England courses? Your favorite course of all time? BC: Wethersfield CC where I won the Greater Hartford four times, Pleasant Valley, and Newport CC. Cypress Point on the Monterey Peninsula. NEGM: What was your favorite tournament? BC: The Tournament of Champions played at Desert Inn, Las Vegas. The people there made it such a wonderful tournament. You had to win on Tour to be invited, and I had the good fortune to win a tournament 16 straight years. NEGM: Name the three best players, besides yourself, (1) when you joined the Tour in 1955, (2) in your prime in 1966, and (3) today? BC: Gene Littler, Arnold Palmer, Bob Rosburg; (2) Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player; (3) Luke Donald, Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods. NEGM: What would your Dream Foursome be from any time period? BC: Bob Hope, Gay Brewer, Gene Littler. NEGM: OK, Buffalo Billy, explain why your much-

publicized, exotic meat diet was essential to your health. BC: I had severe problems with allergies. I went to a doctor in Chicago, and he discovered I was allergic to all sorts of things. There was a problem with my immune system, and the allergies would act-up with certain foods and on certain golf courses. That doctor saved my career. NEGM: After you retired from playing, how have you kept busy? BC: Billy Casper Golf has kept me very busy. Outside of golf, I have a lot of commitments and make appearances. I have worked with a cruise line for 15 years, lecturing and playing golf with passengers. I have the Billy Casper Youth Foundation where we raise funds for youth programs and hospitals. We have 40 different charities we donate to through Billy’s Kids. I make appearances at Billy Casper Golf-managed courses. In fact, I’m busier now than when I was on Tour! But I’m enjoying life much more because I have the opportunity to work with great people who are tied into golf, business, and philanthropy. NEGM: How do you want to be remembered? BC: I want to be remembered for having a great love for my fellow man.

For more information about Billy Casper or to purchase “The Big Three and Me,” see www.billycasper.com

Come play one of New England’s Premier Golf Courses Voted #5 in MA, by Golf Magazine For more information about the Course & The Rockdale Grill Visit us at www.shiningrock.com SHINING ROCK GOLF CLUB 91 CLUBHOUSE LANE, NORTHBRIDGE, MA 01534 (508) 234-0400WWW.SHININGROCK.COM

New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 23

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Stroke-and-Distance: The Most Unobserved Rule In Golf

by Jack Ross The stroke-and-distance penalty imposed by Rule 27 is quite straightforward: if your ball is lost anywhere other than in a hazard, or is out of bounds, you must play another ball as nearly as possible from the spot from which the original ball was played, and add a penalty stroke. It is an unforgiving rule, in effect equating to a two-stroke penalty for wayward shots. It is also probably the most violated rule in golf. We’ve all been there. You hit your tee shot into a problem area, but hope springs eternal. Surely you’ll find it. When you don’t, are you likely to walk back to the tee and hit again, particularly on a busy Saturday morning with groups backed up behind you? Most likely, you’ll drop a ball at the edge of the woods, take a penalty stroke, and move on. Practical, perhaps, but not permissible. The appropriate course of action is to play a provisional ball if there’s a chance your ball is lost or out of bounds. You must declare that you’re playing a provisional, or you’ll be considered to have put a new ball in play under the stroke-and-distance rule. You may continue to play your provisional ball up to the point on the course where your original ball was likely to have been lost or crossed the boundary line, and still retain the option of playing your original ball if you find it in bounds. Your ball is deemed to be lost if you do not find it within five minutes. Course boundaries generally are demarcated by white stakes or lines, although fences and walls often mark boundaries. (Consult local rules.) Be aware that some courses

24 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

contain “internal” out of bounds markers between holes. A ball is out of bounds if it lies completely outside the boundary line. Rule 27 does not apply if your ball is lost in a water hazard; you must apply the water hazard rules (Rule 26), which provide several relief options at the cost of a penalty stroke. However, these rules apply only if it is “known or virtually certain” that your ball was lost in a hazard. Keep in mind that many courses contain red stakes (which denote lateral water hazards) along the periphery of holes adjoining severe terrain, even where there is no body of water. If your ball crosses the line marked by ed stakes and is lost, you mayinvoke the lateral water hazard rule and drop within two club lengths of the point where the ball crossed the margin of the hazard. If your ball crosses into the woods beyond the last red stake, the stroke-and-distance rule applies. Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop and has officiated at state amateur competitions. He is a co-author of “Mastering Golf ’s Toughest Shots,” which explains how the rules may be used to the golfer’s advantage in problem situations.

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Molori Unplugged by John Molori

Coast to coast with Mr. Mallicoat When I asked Comcast SportsNet sportscaster Now at Comcast SportsNet, golf takes a back Mike Giardi if he was a golfer and might be in- seat to wife Sandy, daughter Tessa, 9, and son terested in being interviewed for this column, he Beckett, 6. “I might get out seven or eight times responded, “I am a rotten golfer with a hole in a year maximum,” says Giardi. “When I worked one at TPC Boston on media day a few years at NECN, we did a lot golf tips segments, so I back! I’d be happy to assist.” got to play quite a bit. I love Blackstone National. Indeed the high point of Giardi’s links life oc- It’s such a beautiful course. curred in Norton, MA in 2005. “The 11th hole “Cape Cod and Falmouth are my home was a par three uphill, and I was hitting into the courses. Outside of New England, I like Shadow wind,” explains the 40-year-old Giardi. Wood in Bonita Springs, FL and Aurora Country “I was going to hit a seven iron, but decided to Club in Ohio. I would love to play Pebble Beach. switch to a six iron. I saw the ball bounce off the The wider the fairway, the better for me. I can hit green, but didn’t see it go in. As we approached a ton off the tee, but I really don’t know where the hole, one of the guys I was playing with told it’s going. me I had a hole in one.” Giardi played basketball, track, and football at Giardi was never able to drink in the glory of Norwood High School and once had an intercepthis momentous accomplishment amongst his tion against future NFL quarterback Todd media brethren. He relates, “I had to pick up Collins. He remains one of the all-time leading my kid at day care, so I left after the 14th hole. receivers at Trinity. A lifetime of competitive They sent me a plaque and I kept the ball. I sports has affected his golf game. “I have torn can’t complain.” labrums in both of my shoulders,” says Giardi, Indeed, family and golf have always intertwined who counts a round of golf with Red Sox legend for Giardi. He played for the first time in Fal- Dwight Evans as a highlight. “I was going to have mouth, MA at the age of 14. On that day, an- surgery, but my doctor recommended swimming other unlikely shot reeled him into the game. to help build strength. Before I got hurt, I took “The 15th hole was about 270 yards, and I hit the game very seriously. Now, it’s just fun to be an absolutely terrible drive,” says Giardi, a for- out there.” mer sports editor at the Falmouth Enterprise. While Giardi’s fire for golf has dimmed, there “My next shot bounced off the green and went is still a spark, and it’s still all about family. “I just right into the cup. Here I was slashing my way can’t let my brother Greg keep winning the family through the course, and I end up with an eagle. championship,” he relates. “It’s been six or seven I think my friend and I invented the chest bump years since I won. after that.” “GreG really smokes the ball, and his oldest son Giardi was born in Hooksett, New Hampshire is obsessed with the game. All winter, he was outand raised on the Cape and in Norwood, MA. He side swinging a club, and they have a putting graduated from Norwood High School in 1989 green in their house. The family rivalry is still and from Trinity College in 1993 with a major in there, and my son may take to the game. He is English Literature and a minor in Classical Tra- definitely getting the itch.” dition He holds a Masters Degree from Boston Columnist John Molori writes for numerous publiUniversity in Broadcast Journalism. Giardi cations and appears regularly on several radio staSHINING ROCK GOLF CLUB 91NY CLUBHOUSE LANE, NORTHBRIDGE, MA 01534 worked at WIVT-TV in Binghamton, and tions. Email John at MoloriMedia@aol.com (508) 234-0400WWW.SHININGROCK.COM joined NECN in 2000. New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 25

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28 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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Shop Scene: Cape & Island Golf Shop by NEGM Staﬀ

A New Name with the Same Great Service

For over 20 years a full service golf shop has been located in Hyannis by the Mall on Iyannough Road. e shop served the needs of Cape & Islands golfers for over 2 decades with a dedicated staff offering personalized service and knowledgeable advice outside of the big box. It began as Roger Williams Golf Mart then transitioned to Edwin Watts and a few years ago became Golfology who ceased business operations in New England at the end of 2011. Kevin Cullivan the former General Manager of Golfogy now has re-opened the shop as Cape & Islands Golf Shop and pledges to its customers to offer the same great personalized service the location has always famous for. Kevin with 20 years in the golf industry has rounded out the staff in the new store with 2 veterans of the industry that he has worked with for years. Keith Rose and Brendan Army who together with Kevin Cullivan bring over 5 decades of industry knowledge to the team. Kevin is most proud of the many long standing cus-

30 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

tomer relations they have been able to build and maintain for over two decades both inside and outside the business. “Our goal quite simply”, Kevin said, “is to maintain same dedication and commitment to excellence in the new store with outstanding service to each and every customer”. e shop in Hyannis is centrally located for Cape residents and also sits on the main traffic route for ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket for vacationers and island residents. e new store offers a very diverse selection of all the major brands available in the industry today as well as many unique products that will offer customers more flexible choices for their game. “One of the great advantages in being a single store venue”, Kevin said, “ is our ability to alter inventory and services quickly to meet the needs of our customers”. e store offers club fitting which in today’s market is a must if you are going to get serious about your game. We also will allow customers to demo equipment in specific cases

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so they can be sure its right for there game. Today the golf retail industry is all about is all about personalized service for players of all levels. In the big box world of retail golf personal attention and sound advice is rare, and often players end up with clubs that do not suit their ability and playing level. At Cape and Islands we take the time to get you into the right equipment so you can enjoy the game and see improvement along the way”.

Cape & Islands Golf Shop is conveniently located at 1019 Iyannough Rd, Hyannis, MA across from the Cape Cod Mall on route 132. e store will oﬀer manufactures demo days and fittings throughout the season as well as special events and sales. Store hours are Mon- Sat 9AM - 6PM and Sundays from 11AM -4PM for more information you may call Cape & Islands Golf Shop at 508-771-4653.

New England Golf Monthly | May 2012| 31

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Wintonbury Hills Golf Course – A Success Story by NEGM Staﬀ

Just seven years after opening as the first Pete Dye championship course in New England, Wintonbury Hills Golf Course is enjoying success headlines both locally and nationally. Most recently Wintonbury most recently was named again as one of the Top 25 Public Courses in New England by New England Golf Monthly and the No. 2 “Best Course You Can Play” in Connecticut by Golfweek. e 18-hole, par-70, 6,711-yard layout is replete with stunning vistas of the heavily treed ridges that surround the property. Wintonbury Hills oﬀers a blend of links-style and forested holes with generous rolling fairways to help navigate the 125 bunkers framing the course. Breathtaking views of the Tunxis Reservoir combined with Dye’s masterful attention to detail makes Wintonbury Hills a beautiful and challenging test of golf for all player levels. e course has hosted e LPGA Futures Tour along with many other prestigious events. ese and many other aspects of the property make Wintonbury Hills Golf Course a must play. In 2011, Wintonbury was designated a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” for its high standards protecting the environment and preserving the natural heritage of golf. Following the conservation group Audubon International’s approved steps for an environmentally friendly golf course, Wintonbury reduces waste and promotes eﬃcient operations. Other program results include a reduction of maintenance costs,

including insurance premiums, energy, water, pesticides, fertilizer, equipment wear and labor. In attaining Audubon certification, Wintonbury successfully executes sound environmental practices in six key areas: environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction, water conservation, and water quality management. “Instituting ecologically-sound practices is very important,” says Mark Mansur, Golf Course Superintendent at Wintonbury. “We are eﬀectively decreasing the impact on the environment while providing golfers with healthier playing experiences.” Finally, Wintonbury has re-opened the renovated e Tap Inn restaurant within its clubhouse. Formerly e Grill at Wintonbury Hills, the restaurant has been transformed into a classically- decorated pub with high wainscoted walls, decorative tin ceiling and new flat-screen televisions above the bar. e menus include new breakfast, lunch and dinner items, as well as a variety of craft beers on tap. “We’re excited to re-brand and re-open e Tap Inn,” says Ciaran Carr, General Manager of Wintonbury Hills. “Cultivating exceptional golfer experiences, including great food and fun times in the clubhouse, are our calling cards.” Wintonbury Hills Golf Course is owned by the Town of Bloomfield and managed by Billy Casper Golf. For tee times call 860-242-1401 or visit wintonburyhillsgolf.com.

32 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012 | Review From the Tee

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Shining Rock Golf Club On Your Bucket List? by Greg Sampson

If you are looking for one of the best semi-private clubs in New England look no further than the award winning Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge, MA. e championship layout, course conditions and severe elevation changes prove to challenge some of the best modern course designs in New England. I have played golf courses all over the world and Shining Rock hovers right up there with some of my favorites and should most definitely be on your “bucket list.” From the drive up the hill through the magnificent real estate you know that you are in for a treat. e staﬀ at Shining Rock truly understands the meaning of hospitality from greeting you with your cart in the parking lot to washing your clubs at the end of the round. The Rockdale Grill offers views of the 1st and 9th holes with a mouthwatering menu, ice-cold beverages and friendly service. The design of the clubhouse is just as unique as the

course. The clubhouse sits at the highest point of the course featuring three glass garage doors that open to a flagstone patio overlooking the Blackstone Valley Corridor. Let’s discuss how Shining Rock was named. Behind the 16th green sits an 80-foot high cliff of granite that offers an unbelievable view of the Blackstone River Valley. There are vast amounts of mica found within the cliff causes the enormous rock to glisten in the sunshine, hence the name Shining Rock which it has been so called since the Nipmuc Indian tribe days. From the tips the par 72 layout is rated at a 72.9 with a slope of 135, which to me is a bit low. e total yardage reads 6,709 however a majority of the shots play one to three clubs uphill, there are not many flat lies and the greens feature undulations that require your short game to be on point. One of Shining Rocks most unique features is the grain

34 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012 | Review From the Tee

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that pulls the ball toward the Blackstone Valley so pay attention to where the valley wants to pull your ball both in the fairways and on the greens. My favorite stretch of holes are the opening six with my favorite holes being the “e Rock” and “e Quarry” which are almost the same in length, can yield over par scores and feature some of the most unique rock formations I have ever seen on a golf course. e tee shot on the short par 4 fourth requires a minimum of at least a 230 yard carry to a small fairway that slopes left to right. e fourth is drivable however if you want to take the risk as it only measure 334 yards in length. e long par 3 fifth measures 239 yards in length but plays much longer. e small granite quarry behind the green has a beautiful stairway cut into it, which makes the green a joy to enter and leave after most likely making a bogey. e rest of the front nine has very similar traits and requires pinpoint accuracy as virtually every

hole is lined by lateral hazards. e back nine is where you can turn your score around as it opens up a bit and is less severe in both elevation change and green undulation. Don’t forget to take a look at Shining Rock when you play the mammoth of a par 5 16th which measures 648 yards. Shining Rock Golf Club is one of the most original layouts in course architecture history with each hole having a character of its own. The natural use of the land coupled with a knowledgeable management staff make Shining Rock a true semi-private wonder. SRGC offers five sets of tees and can be played at a reasonable rate. SRCC is also one of the only clubs with a multi-club membership which affords you playing privileges at the near by Hopkinton CC. For more information or to schedule a tee-time you can visit their website ShiningRock.com or call 508-234-0400. Trust me when I say that you won’t be disappointed.

Review From the Tee | May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 35

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Beverly Golf & Tennis Club Embracing Rich History With an Eye on the Future by Emily Kay

e moment you enter the grounds of the Beverly Golf & Tennis Club, you know you’ve taken a step back in time. e magnificent, Arts and Crafts-designed clubhouse, once the social and recreational focal point of the historic property, remains as grand a structure today as it was when United Shoe Machinery Corp. built it for its employees in 1910. Indeed, the National Register placed the impressive edifice onto its list on the same day in 1982 that it made its way to the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places. As steeped in history as the venue is, the duo that recently took over management of the old course is working diligently to overcome an unfortunate recent past, restore its former luster, and meet the demands of 21st-century golfers. Steve Murphy and Chris Carter are the two local guys behind Golf Facilities Management, the company that signed a fiveyear deal back in 2010 to operate the city-owned facility. “It’s a 100-year-old golf course that needs a lot of attention,” Chris Carter, head pro at nearby Hillview GC and co-owner with Murphy of the management company, told us recently. “We’ve gotten the city to invest close to $1.5 million since we’ve taken over.” e semi-private course fell into disrepair and lost members as well as daily-fee players by the score due

to earlier mismanagement. Carter, New England PGA Section 2010 Professional of the Year, and Murphy, a highly regarded course superintendent, are installing new drainage, revamping cart paths, restoring bunkers and tee areas, and otherwise repairing the infrastructure to return the club to a condition worthy of the folks who call Beverly Golf & Tennis their home course. “We’re golf people,” Carter said. “We want to do the right things for the players.” David Dionne, the club’s head pro for the past three years, was in awe of Golf Facilities’ eﬀorts. “No other course in New England has done this amount of work in this short a period of time,” Dionne said. Golfers will surely appreciate Golf Facilities’ eﬀorts as they make their way around the 18-hole layout that plays to a par-70 from the back and par-73 from the front tees. With several notable holes, some consider the par-3 15th, a downhill par-3 playing to 163 yards from the back and 133 yards from the forward tees to be the club’s signature. Others -- Dionne among them -- would swear the par-4 16th hole, a tester whether you play it from the tips at 392 yards or the forward tees, from 372 yards, defines the playing experience on the rolling hills of Beverly Golf & Tennis. Two things everyone will agree on is that the well-

36 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012 | Review From the Tee

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manicured greens of varying sizes and undulations, with speeds measuring between nine and 10 on the Stimpmeter, offer a challenge to players of all abilities, and the staff could not be friendlier or more welcoming. For sure, the new management team gets it, which is why membership is growing and old friends are returning. “We’ve added 50 new members over the past three years,” said Carter, who communicates regularly with city officials to keep them apprised of his company’s progress. “Some are coming back and we’re welcoming new faces.” Dionne would like to see more women among those new faces and is experimenting with additional tee areas that could make golf more enjoyable for shorter hitters. Meanwhile, with some 225 members ($2,100 for

an individual resident, $2,600 per non-resident), Carter was well on his way toward meeting his firm’s goal of 240 affiliates by the end of this season. And with more than 250 golfers on the course each day of a recent glorious early spring weekend, the club appeared to be on its way back to its 1990s’ heyday when it was one of the busiest circuits in the state. For sure, optimism is as much a part of the ambience at the venerable United Shoe athletic grounds as the history that so defines it. “I’ve been at Hillview for 15 years,” Carter said, “and I’ve not seen this positive a feeling in spring golf in all those years.” Beverly Golf & Tennis Club, Phone: 978-922-9072, BeverlyGolfandTennis.com, 134 McKay St. Beverly, MA 01915

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Triggs Municipal Golf Course The Ultimate Muni

by Tim Geary

It sits majestically on the top of Chalkstone Avenue hill, in the heart of Providence’s Mt. Pleasant section, a roughly 140 acre expanse of grass and trees where wildlife (squirrels, fox, hawks, etc.) co-exist with wild life (golfers). Triggs Memorial is a municipal golf course, owned by the City of Providence and sits on what is oﬃcially listed as Obadiah Brown Park, a parcel of land that the Brown family bequeathed to the city fathers years ago and designated, in perpetuity, to be a recreational area for the citizenry. e golf course itself was designed by renowned architect Donald Ross and constructed during the infancy of the Great Depression, completed in 1932. Ross used the land’s natural topography in his design. Since 1992 Triggs has been operated under a lease agreement between the Providence Department of Parks and Recreation and FCG Associates. General Manager Karl Augenstein, one of the FCG partners, has been the driving force in the restoration of the course over the 20 plus years since his company began operations. In that time Triggs has undergone a significant face lift, making it one of the best munis in New England and the golf destination for golfers of all levels. Back in the 1930s greens fees at Triggs was .50 cents a round for weekday play and .75 cents for weekends and holidays. Today it’s a bit more, but compared to many public courses, the rates remain

more than competitive and middle class friendly and there are a number of options and deals that should appeal to everyone who wishes to tee it up. Over the years Augenstein’s company has invested heavily in improving both the course and the amenities. “We have tried to restore it to the way Donald Ross designed and pretty much leave it that way, Augenstein said in an interview two years ago. “You don’t mess around with Donald Ross.” Triggs, home of the Providence Open, a regular stop of the PGA Tour in the 1930s, deteriorated over the years until it hit rock (literally) bottom in the late 60s and early 70s. e tees were ragged artificial turf mats and the fairways nothing more than browned out hardpan where a 30 handicapper could routinely hit a ground ball drive almost 300 yards. Many of the bunkers had more grass than sand in them and the greens were horrendous. Over the two decades under FCG the course has been returned to prominence. e Providence Open (under the leadership of Dave Adamonis Jr.) has returned and while it is only a mini tour event, it still illustrates the strides that have been made to the golf course. Adamonis’ Challenge Cup series (a prominent junior golf program) has regularly used Triggs to host some of its events and Rhode Island College’s golf team uses it as the Anchormen’s home venue. Triggs is perhaps the most popular course in the state for holding corporate and charity outings and

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according to Yogi Mourandian, who operates “Sandbaggers”, the Triggs restaurant and 19th hole, is home to between 50 and 60 leagues. “I would say that we probably have between 80 and 100 outings a year here,” said Mourandian, who has operated the restaurant since 1991. Yogi, to put it mildly, is diﬀerent, which makes him typical of many who call Triggs home. Legend has it that he once shot an 84 at Triggs, using nothing more than a putter. Not true he says, but does admit to beating three other players using nothing more than the flat stick. “ey had to give me a shot a hole and it was their best ball against mine,” he said. Yogi was 3-over par after seven holes and his opponents quit on the 16th hole. At the 2007 member-guest he surprised Providence Journal sports columnist Jim Donaldson with a full course breakfast, complete with eggs benedict, after Donaldson had made a comment the previous day about only having Danish and coﬀee available. Of course Yogi served the breakfast to a linen cov-

ered table set up on the edge of the practice putting green. Donaldson ate while the rest of the field putted and (some would say) glared. A couple of years ago Triggs opened a practice range adjacent to the 10th tee. It has been wildly popular and in addition to allowing players to warm up and practice, it is home to the Triggs learning center, where PGA professional Bob Tramonti gives lessons and, along with Mike Ryan, conducts clinics, many of which are for junior players and beginners. "Last year I had over 200 students and gave over 500 lessons," said Tramonti. "We'll have more this year. We're going to have over 80 groups in for clinics and well over 500 private lessons. is month (April) we've had triple the amount of lessons than last year at this time."

Triggs Municipal Golf Course Phone: 401.521.8460 Web: Triggs.us 1533 Chalkstone Avenue Providence, Rhode Island 02908

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He Said, She Said

by Jim Hammond and Pam Borgess

HeSaid Cape Cod, the tourism hotbed in New England, has grown into a golf destination that offers a vast array of superb public courses. Cranberry Valley, crafted by Cornish and Robinson, was one of the first town-owned public courses on the Cape and remains one of the most successful. anks to Dennis Hoye, Director of Golf at C.V., he facilitated the facelift needed to compete in the crowded golf market. In 2007, Mark Mungeam performed bunker restoration and created two target greens with chipping, pitching and bunker practice areas, an amenity that you rarely see on public courses! I was delighted by the friendly, welcoming atmosphere—gracious, accommodating staff, spacious clubhouse with outdoor dining serviced by Back Nine Café, and a Pro Shop garnished with ladies apparel and accessories! C.V.’s picturesque, tree-lined course winds through the valley sporting a layout of numerous doglegs, strategically placed bunkers and large greens. It’s a challenging, yet intriguing course from the ladies’ tees, measuring 5,568 yards with slope rating 73/127. e front-nine plays long (2,934 yards), measuring 300 yards longer than the back-nine— it’s like playing an extra hole! e wide fairways are easy to navigate, but a stray shot toward the grassy mounds framing the bunkers will likely roll in and be hard to get out. e par-3s are long (131-175 yards); unless you hit a strong tee shot it’s tough to reach the green in regulation. ere are no surprises when putting the immense, immaculate greens, which are receptive and roll true. e back-nine features a distinctively different layout, with elevation changes, rolling, sloping fairways, kettle ponds, narrow approaches to guarded greens and each hole requires skillful play and precisely placed shots. Despite the layout challenges, it’s more FUN and the distance advantage given ladies favors a lower score. e outstanding 280 yard 12th hole features a downhill approach that severely slopes right toward a kettle pond that fronts the right side of the green with traps on the left and back side. e signature 18th, a double dogleg par-5, culminates with a picture-perfect green nestled within a cluster of traps and trees—a gorgeous ending. To encourage female and family play, C.V. offers weekly ladies’ clinics, including lunch at a reasonable price of $20 and family golf clinics—a 5 week program for $50. Check online for more details. Cranberrygolfcourse.c

Cranberry Valley Golf Course HeSaid Cranberry Valley Golf Course, located in the beautiful town of Harwich has a range for full shots and two greens to work on your short game. ey even put a putting green right next to the first tee so you can work on those all so important three footers. e first hole at Cranberry Valley is a 375 yard par 4 from the gold tees. It is a wide open dogleg right with only a few bunkers guarding the green. A 3 metal and a 7 iron will give you an excellent chance to grab a birdie on this hole. e second hole is a 509 yard par 5 but again the fairway is generous and a par can be had quite easily. e challenge starts at the 453 yard par 4 hole. is is the number one handicap hole and demands a long and carefully placed tee shot. But like all of the holes on the front nine if you plot your tee shots well you can have a very satisfying front nine. e back nine is a much more demanding string of holes with tighter fairways and more hazards guarding the greens. e 369 par 4 tenth hole is a hard dogleg with a hazard at the corner so a cut shot is not recommended here. But if you pull a shot left you are left with a very diﬃcult recovery shot and almost no hope of reaching the putting surface in regulation. It seems that each subsequent hole is more demanding than the last. e most challenging hole is 18, a double dogleg with a blind tee shot and a small green tucked in the corner of a valley. e condition of the course was very good especially when you consider that I played in early April and we have not had any rain in months. e lounge is called the “Back Nine” and it is a very warm and welcoming area and sits on top of a hill with views of the course. e director of golf is Dennis Hoye and he is a Class A P.G.A. member who has spent many years working with the Harwich community and develops programs to help all family members to enjoy golfing at Cranberry Valley. For more info call 508-430-5234 or www.cranberrygolfcourse.com

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New England Golf Monthly

Top 25 Awards

Boston Golf Club Belgrade Lakes Golf Club

Top 25 Public Courses

Top 25 Private Courses

1. Newport National (RI) 2. CT National GC (CT) 3. The Ranch GC (MA) 4. Green Mountain National (VT) 5. Meadowbrook GC (RI) 6. Red Tail GC (MA) 7. Belgrade Lakes GC (ME) 8. Granite Links GC (MA) 9. Shining Rock GC (MA) 10. Portsmouth CC (NH) 11. Stowe Acres CC (MA) 12. The Ledges GC (ME) 13. Wintonbury Hills CC (CT) 14. Waverly Oaks GC (MA) 15. Farm Neck GC (MA) 16. Old Marsh CC (ME) 17. Bass River GC (MA) 18. Green Meadow GC (NH) 19. Triggs Golf Course (RI) 20. Pinehills GC – Jones & Nicklaus (MA) 21. Cranberry Valley GC (MA) 22. Dennis Pines GC (MA) 23. Lake of Isles – North (CT) 24. Olde Scotland Links (MA) 25. Wentworth Hills GC (MA)

1. Boston Golf Club (MA) 2. The Country Club (MA) 3. Shelter Harbor CC (RI) 4. The Stanwich Club (CT) 5. Golf Club of New England (NH) 6. Ipswich CC (MA) 7. Old Sandwich GC (MA) 8. Ekwanok CC (VT) 9. TPC Boston (MA) 10. Turner Hill (MA) 11. Kittansett CC (MA) 12. The Course at Yale (CT) 13. Wannamoisett CC (RI) 14. The Bay Club at Mattapoisett (MA) 15. Portland CC (ME) 16. Worcester CC (MA) 17. Newport CC (RI) 18. TPC River Highlands (CT) 19. Lake Winnapesakke CC (NH) 20. Renaissance GC (MA) 21. Charles River CC (MA) 22. Rhode Island Country Club (RI) 23. Eastward Ho CC (MA) 24. Myopia Hunt CC (MA) 25. Cape Cod National (MA) May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 43

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Par 3 Courses

Resorts

1. Blue Rock GC (MA) 2. Brookstone Golf & Driving Range (NH) 3. Cyprian Keys GC (MA) 4. Lost Brook GC (MA) 5. Swansea CC (MA) 6. Highland Greens GC (CT) 7. Rose Hill GC (RI) 8. Okemo Valley Family Four Course (VT) 9. The Challenger at Waverly Oaks GC (MA) 10. Apple Hill GC (NH) 11. Southers Marsh GC (MA) 12. Atkinson CC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Short Course (NH) 13. Little Harbor CC (MA) 14. Apple Nine at Lyman Orchards (CT) 15. The Links at Lang Farm (VT) 16. Button Hole GC (RI) 17. Holly Ridge GC (MA) 18. Stone Meadow GC (MA) 19. Stoweflake GC (VT) 20. Country Fareways (ME) 21. Paul Harney GC (MA) 22. Mulligans Island GC (RI) 23. Twin Brooks GC (MA) 24. Fairlawn GC (RI) 25 Windmill Hill GC (RI)

1. Sunday River Resort (ME) 2. Stowe Mountain Resort (VT) 3. Wequassett Resort & Golf Club (MA) 4. Atkinson Resort (NH) 5. Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT) 6. The International GC & Resort (MA) 7. The Balsams Grand Resort (NH) 8. Mt. Washington Resort (NH) 9. Equinox Resort (VT) 10. Bethel Inn Resort (ME) 11. Lake Morey Resort (VT) 12. Mohegan Sun Resort (CT) 13. Owls Nest Resort & GC (NH) 14. Stratton Mountain Resort (VT) 15. Okemo Resort (VT) 16. Point Sebego Resort (ME) 17. Eagle Mountain Resort (NH) 18. Jay Peak Resort (VT) 19. Ocean Edge Resort (MA) 20. Woodstock Inn & Resort (MA) 21. Killington Resort (VT) 22. Cranwell Resort (MA) 23. Sugarloaf Resort (ME) 24. Samoset Resort (ME) 25. Mount Snow (VT)

Blue Rock

Sunday River Resort

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Dennis Sales

McGolf Driving Range

Practice Facilities

Instructors

1. Harmon Golf & Fitness Club (MA) 2. Sun Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Air Golf Center (MA) 3. McGolf Driving Range (MA) 4. Golf Quest (CT) 5. Mulligans Island (RI) 6. Natick Golf Learning Center (MA) 7. Prospect Golf (CT) 8. Atlantic Golf Center (MA) 9. World Cup Golf Center (NH) 10. Stone Meadow Golf (MA) 11. GolfTec New England (RI, MA, CT) 12. Golf Country (MA) 13. Golf Learning Center of New England (MA) 14. Lancaster Golf Center (MA) 15. Brookstone Golf & Driving Range (NH) 16. Button Hole (RI) 17. Sport Center of Connecticut (CT) 18. MGA Links (MA) 19. Links at Lang Farm (VT) 20. STIX Fun Center (MA) 21. Iron Woods Golf Center (RI) 22. Big Sticks Golf (MA) 23. Southborough Golf Practice & Learning Center (MA) 24. Swift Results (RI) 25. Whirlaway Golf Center (MA)

1. Dennis Sales (RI) 2. Patrick Fannon (MA) 3. Bill McInerney (MA) 4. Gary Cardoza (MA) 5. Bill Bondaruk (MA) 6. Ron Philo Jr. (VT) 7. CJ Talbert (RI) 8. Derek Hooper (CT) 9. Scott Mayer (ME) 10. Terry Felty (MA) 11. Jane Frost (MA) 12. Anthony Decker (ME) 13. Tom Cavicchi (MA) 14. Tom Giles (MA) 15. Bill Schmedes (MA) 16. Kyle Phelps (RI) 17. Hope Kelly (MA) 18. Kevin Walker (NH) 19. David Marcotte (RI) 20. Travis Hall (MA) 21. Drew Kayser (MA) 22. Tom Gillis (MA) 23. Mike Harbour (RI) 24. Ed Kirby (RI) 25. Dan Lockhart (MA) May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 45

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Take a Load Off

by Ed Travis

Lightweight stand bags, push carts and electric walking carts

Vote for Your favorite Bag, Walking Cart and Electric Cart at mynegm.com For A Chance to Win “Take A Load Off Products”

Walking the course during a round of golf is one of life’s true pleasures. Whether it’s carrying your clubs, pushing a cart (or trolley as the British say) or sauntering along with your bag on an electric cart, walking is great exercise and achieves a connection with the course and nature. Many believe walking improves their rhythm resulting in better swings and lower scores. e bottom line is, walking has it all over riding.

ere are one or two cautions though like having a comfortable pair of golf shoes and of course filling the requirement of somehow getting your bag and clubs around for 18 holes. e word “lightweight” therefore becomes very important. So to give you some insight into the options that are available, this month New England Golf features carry bags, push carts and electric walking carts that will “Take A Load Oﬀ” and put more enjoyment in your round.

Stand Bags A lightweight carry bag should be…well, lightweight; certainly no more than five lbs. or so. It must be comfortable plus well balanced on your shoulders and have room for your sticks, a jacket, a few balls and maybe a bottle of water. Here are some we like that do the job, look good and won’t severely deplete your pocketbook.

Sun Mountain KG2 Sun Mountain’s been in the bag business for 25 years and the KG2 is a great example of applying what they have learned. Lots of premium features like their E-Z Fit Dual Straps, Roller-Bottom leg mechanism and leg locking system for use on a riding cart. Eight pockets, three handles and it weights 4.9 lbs.

Ping Hoofer e Hoofer line from Ping Golf has been a favorite for years and the 2012 model features a five divider top and eight pockets, each with a heavy duty zipper. ere’s a water-resistant velour lined valuables pocket and even a pocket for your range finder. Weight is about 5 lbs.

TaylorMade Micro-Lite 3.0 Stand Bag is is TaylorMade’s lightest duel strap stand bag at only 3.9 lbs., a streamlined version of their larger (and heavier) TMaG stand bags, but isn’t short of features. ere’s a three-way 6½ inch top with two full length dividers, seven pockets and an integrated handle.

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Mizuno AeroLite IV Stand Bag is is Mizuno’s most popular carry bag and they have updated it for 2012 featuring a forward opening, large mouth zipper closure “Pelican Pocket,” a very nice top cuﬀ that uses the weight of the club heads to naturally separate them. Weight of the Aerolite is not a problem…just 4 lbs.

Ogio Flash Stand Bag Ogio says the Flash has everything you need in its compact 4½ lbs. ere’s an 8-division top with full length dividers, six zippered pockets and a beverage bottle pocket along with integrated handle to help in car trunks. e water bottle holder keeps your refreshment handy even while walking.

Puma Formation Lightweight Stand Bag e Formation is available in several bold colors (including orange, lime and a light blue) making it a stand out on the course. It comes with a storm-proof zippered valuables pocket, a cell phone pocket and three other handy places to store your “stuﬀ.”

Molhimawk Swag Bag Classic Patterns & Styles are the signature of the Molhimawk Line. Lightweight bags created for the serious golfer that oﬀer fashionable options in great colors. e eco- friendly vibrant designs are a great statement to ones game.

Push carts Push carts in the past few years have undergone remarkable changes in design making them both easier to use and to store. Here is a sampling of the leading ones for your consideration.

Cadie Golf Four Runner 4-Wheel Push Cart At just 13 lbs. the Four Runner is light and it has a one button release to fold or unfold. ere’s a foot brake and the airless tires snap on for easy cleaning and storage. e entire cart including the rustproof frame carries a three year warranty.

Sun Mountain - Speed Cart V1 Sun Mountain has been making push carts since 1999 and their latest model has some nice features. ere’s a redesigned console with three sections to hold items such as your range finder plus a slide out trap for the scorecard and the latching system makes folding/unfolding or adjusting the handle height simple.

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“ S wa gB a g . . . I t A i n ’ t Y o u r G r a n d p a ’ s G o l f B a g . ”

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Electric Walking Carts ese are the ultimate in taking a load oﬀ while still having the enjoyment of traversing the fairways by foot. Some models have a sensor system so they follow as you walk while others are steered by hand or by remote control. Amounts shown are street prices.

FTR Caddy Trek $1,595 FTR Systems, makers of the Caddy Trek, use a proprietary robotic system with a pocket-sized sensor so the cart follows you around the course. One person can fold and unfold the Caddy Trek and its lithium ion battery will run the dual motors for 27-holes on a charge.

Bat Caddy X3R $695 Dual 200 watts motors give the X3R lots of power for hills and the remote control has directional controls, timed advance plus brake/stop. ere’s a manual rheostat handle control and a nice feature that allows freewheeling so you won’t get caught on the course without power.

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Kangaroo Hillcrest ABX e Hillcrest ABX has a remote guidance system with electronic front wheel drive, a built-in remote receiver and a remote transmitter. Options include a side mounted ball washer, a sand bottle holder, umbrella stand and you can even purchase what the company calls a gallery seat.

Club Runner MotorCaddie e Motor Caddie weighs 22 lbs. plus the battery and the handle control has 10 speed settings. A 31-amp battery and 12-volt motor are standard so it climbs hills easily. Set up time is less than 60 seconds and its low center of gravity are real benefits.

Cart Tek GRX 1200 R e GRX-1200R has a tubular steel frame and a sophisticated electronics package to adjust speed settings, turning force and tracking from the remote transmitter, which has range up to 100 yards. It features twin drive motors and a 40Ah battery.

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FEATURES No need need to push push or pull: IT FOLLOWS YOU!

A robotic caddy that follows you faithfully

Compact Compact and Lightweight Lightweight Rugged Rugged wh wheels eels for most terrains terrains Rechargeable Rec hargeable Remote Remote controllable

www.caddytrek.com tel: 781-213-3014 | info@caddytrek.com

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Golf Fitness Leveraging More Power for the New Season

Start the season by leveraging more power into the golf ball with the Smart Golf Club. e Smart Golf Club's unique features allow golfers to properly feel lag in the downswing for optimum momentum, which means significantly increased club head speed and sustained compression through the golf ball. Having a weighted club with a unique counterbalanced grip and an easily bending shaft helps your body develop a sense for where the club head is during the swing and for utilizing momentum to build muscle memory. It is designed to provide instant feedback to help improve ball-striking skill for all levels of players. e Smart Golf Club will allow you not only to warm up before rounds and practice but to build golf specific muscles. e driver club head design with the unique rotational indentation allows golfers to visualize the impact and develop muscle memory to transfer directly to the tee box. Start by warming up with the Smart Golf Club by taking small swings backwards and forwards. Build momentum and gradually work your way up to 3/4 and full swings. As you begin with full swings feel the shaft bend as the club sets and release through the impact area. Swing 5-6 times for up to three sets with

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a few seconds rest in between, making sure you are in balance during each swing. A few minutes a day or before teeing oﬀ will see significant gains in driving distance. As you continue, increase the speed of your swings as long as you can maintain a stable lower body. As an advanced routine use the Smart Golf Club with the Leverage Discs to develop proper dynamic swing sequence for greater distance. More at smartbodygolf.com for the most functional, effective and golf specific products.

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Sampson’s Spotlight presented by GolfTrainingAids.com The Claim e BirdieBall RollTech Putting Green is a new revolutionary heavy cross section putting surface with enough thickness to allow for drop-in-the-hole cups and extraction flags however easily rolled up for storage. e surface is textured to replicate the look, texture and grain of a real putting surface. BirdieBall, putting greens are available in stimp speeds from 8 to 14 on the stimpmeter. e grain feature allows for a putting green with two speeds, one down grain and one into the grain along with cross grain with both break directions. Typically the speed is one foot slower into the grain than down grain. Let’s see if these greens can stand the Sampson Speed Test? The Test To perform the Sampson Speed Test I scheduled three rounds of golf at courses with green speeds that match 9-10, 10-11 and 11-13 on the stimp. Each evening and before my round I practiced on the matching RollTech Green putting down grain, into the grain and cross grain. Let’s see how the Indoor Putting green held up. The Verdict I have putted on almost every artificial putting surface on the market today and I can honestly say that RollTech wins the “true roll, best value award.” Indoors the ball held its line very well with the natural contour of the ground and the grain definitely aﬀected each putt. When on the course my speed control was better then normal and I did not three putt once in three rounds. Moral of this test is YOU HAVE TO HAVE ONE. e quality, versatility and value can’t be beat!

To Purchase a BirdieBall RollTech Green Visit:

Visit: GolfTrainingAids.com and search for “BirdieBall”

Enter Promo Code NEGMFREE For Complimentary Shipping. The World's Largest Selection of Golf Teaching and Training Aids

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Player’s Perspective

Irons Make the Difference

Purchasing a new set of irons without having them fit properly is not smart. Golf is supposed to be fun and having the correct tools goes a long way towards hitting rewarding shots which in by Ed Travis turn removes at least some of golf ’s frustrations. Most golfers have little idea what the correct tools should be and indeed, when it comes to irons especially, how to find out. e process is called fitting. Done properly the person doing the fitting should ask about how you hit the ball with your present irons-low, high, a slight cut or draw, a push or pull, etc. From this he gets an idea of your swing, swing faults and the fit of your current irons. He will take into account how tall you are, your build, set up position and the distance you hit each iron. Finally he will have you hit some shots on a swing analyzer or perhaps from a board with tape on the bottom of your club to confirm his diagnosis and settle on a specification for loft, lie and length.

He then will make a recommendation of how many irons you should carry and which of the long irons should be replaced with hybrid clubs…certainly the 2and 3-irons but perhaps the 4- and 5-irons as well. Purchasing a set with the proper specifications determined from a fitting goes along way to being able to hit longer, more accurate shots and making lower scores. One final observation, over the past 10 to 20 years, makers have progressively de-lofted irons so players think they are hitting the ball further. Translated into numbers that means is a 9-iron that commonly used to have 48 degrees of loft now more often has 44 degrees (or less) and today’s pitching wedge is 48 degrees (even down to 46 degrees). So it might be nice to think that new set of irons is giving you more distance but it may be something as simple is your new 5-iron actually being stronger than you old 4. is month NEGM takes a look at irons to consider for your next purchase, those with the performance to give you the chance to hit more greens post better scores and fell more confidence in your game.

Irons for single digit handicaps

Mizuno MP 69-$899 (3-pitching wedge) | Everyone who gets a look at these thin top line irons in a classic forged muscle back design has a similar reaction. ey look great. ‘Pretty’ is a commonly used adjective. What’s best is they give the performance to go with their looks. Mizuno’s 4D Muscle configuration on the back means the center of gravity is in the same place on each iron which in turn makes for eﬀective trajectory control.

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Mizuno MP-59 $999 steel (3-iron to pitching wedge) | Mizuno has another forged entry in the irons for single digits category, the MP-59s. Billed as a half-cavity design they are the latest Mizuno model with titanium forged in the center of the muscle part of the back which provides lots of strength. Since titanium is lighter than steel it helps move the weight towards the perimeter for added forgiveness. e company says the MP-59s have a 5% larger sweet spot than the MP-58s they replaced.

Adams Idea Pro a12-$799 steel or $999 graphite (4-iron to gap wedge) | With the impending sale of Adams to TaylorMade adidas no one is taking bets on what the future holds for Adams’ lines of irons but the Idea Pro a12 model is very good. Forged from 8620 carbon steel with milled faces they have borrowed the thin top line from Adams’ professional iron line and have a slightly wider sole with progressive oﬀset.

Nike VR-S Forged-$999 steel (4-iron to pitching wedge) | Forged from Japanese-made specialty steel, the VR-S irons have a cavity back but a thicker top line and sole than some in this category. Nike says the weighting is engineered to produce maximum carry and give the ball a steep angle of descent.

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Wilson Ci11-$599 steel or $699 graphite (4-iron to pitching wedge) | Wilson Golf is working hard on the comeback trail and the new Ci11 irons are a good example of the clubs they are making. In addition to the black finish the most unique feature is what Wilson calls the “exoskeleton,” a rim so to speak around the rear cavity that moves weight away from the face yet gives the face stability when it strikes the ball. e overall package produces slightly more distance than the previous Wilson model in this category.

Adams Idea a12 OS-$699 graphite (4-iron to gap wedge) | e OS stands for over sized heads. ey have lots of oﬀset and weight in the sole and work well for players in the 15+ category who want an even more forgiving iron. An 8 club set consists of 3 hybrids (4-5-6), 2 hybrid/irons (7 & 8) plus 3 short irons. Hybrids have an Adams-designed cutout groove at the sole and crown that they call “Velocity Slot Technology” for increased COR while the 7 & 8 have weight moved to the sole and improved perimeter weightitng.

TaylorMade RocketBallz-$699 steel or $899 graphite (4-iron to approach wedge) | TMaG has packed a lot into this new line: Long irons have a hollow clubhead construction similar to their metal woods. From the 3- to 6-irons the topline, sole and back have been reduced which moves weight to the back and heel meaning a lower center of gravity more toward the center of the clubhead. ere’s a large, thin clubface that’s strong and stiﬀ at the perimeter and thin at the inner edge, allowing the face to flex. And they make use of the inverted cone shape behind the face so successful in both their woods and irons.

Shaft Optimizer Mizuno points out correctly, your golf swing is yours and matching the proper shaft to your swing is a big step towards having the opportunity to achieve the best results you can. eir shaft fitting system, they call “Shaft Optimizer,” is computer based using some sophisticated sensors and software. e data is analyzed and determines what Mizuno calls your “Swing DNA.” en these swing characteristics

58 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

are combined with the familiar measurements of the distance of your knuckle-to-the-floor, your posture, the lie angle and grip size so the correct shaft – the one that fits you best can be recommended.

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Official Golf Ball & Putter of New England Golf Monthly

Rife has recently been adopted into the Innovex Golf family. Innovex, is a family owned, like-minded golf equipment manufacturer known for its acclaimed Hot List Award Winning golf ball designs. Innovex shares Rife’s passion for excellence and innovation. Rife is now positioned on both coasts VM [OL <: ;OL ,HZ[ *VHZ[ Z[\KPV PZ OVTL [V V\Y [LZ[PUN HUK Ä[[PUN JLU[LY 6\Y >LZ[ *VHZ[ Z[\KPV will be the home to the new Rife / Innovex R&D lab…“The Vault”. Working hand in hand with tour professionals and our award winning designers, every Rife putter will be engineered and YLÄULK [V [OL OPNOLZ[ Z[HUKHYKZ [OL PUK\Z[Y` OHZ [V VMMLY

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60 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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What the Pros are Saying About Belly Putters: "Right now I'm glad they haven't banned it. As long as it's legal, I'll keep cheating like the rest of them."

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myNEGM Lesson Tee

Tips to Cure Your Slice

by Steve Riggs

The slice seems to be a common problem for many right handed golfers. In order to correct the slice, you need to first understand the reasons for it. While much is written about how to correct the slice, a golfer who spends time at the practice range early in the season stands a much better chance of eliminating it than one who tries to correct or ‘play’ their slice on the golf course. The reason for a slice, in general, is due to the spin put on the ball at impact when the club face meets the ball. What I want to cover here is why the spin is put on the ball at impact. Most right handed golfers tend to have the club drift outside the backswing plane during the downswing. The term ‘outside to inside’ is the term most commonly referred to. What this means, simply, is that as a golfer comes out of transition, (and I speak most generally of the average or weekend golfer here), they will tend to engage their trail or right side of the body as they enter that downswing. is tends to cause the trail or right hand to become tense and thus grip pressure is increased or tightened on the grip of the club. This tension can cause the entire right arm to tighten up, and when this happens, in general, the club is forced outside the swing plane on the way through the downswing. When the club approaches the impact zone from outside the plane line, the obvious result is the head of the club will literally come across the ball from outside to in causing a glancing blow, imparting side spin on the ball. As this type of downswing from outside to in becomes ingrained into your swing and play, golfers will almost automatically begin to aim left, (right handed golfers), hence

62 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

playing for a slice. This will eventually cause the slice to only get worse. A place to start in correcting and eliminating your slice is to develop the ability to swing the club from inside the swing plane to outside. The phrase I like to use is “swinging toward the trouble”. Rather than trying to break down your entire swing, get a basket of balls and hit the range for a bit of work. Take 3 clubs from your bag and lay them down to represent your foot line, shoulder line and ball line. Your foot line club should be that club you place at your feet. The shoulder line is a guide that is placed midway between the golf ball and the foot line club. The ball line club is placed outside the ball, perhaps 2 or 3 inches beyond the toe of your golf club when it sits behind the ball. Be absolutely sure the three clubs are lined up parallel to each other. The golf ball is your base line aimed at the target. Again, the clubs need to be parallel to each other and to the ball line. (Note: Be sure the end of the ball line club is even with the ball so as not to hit that club during your practice.) Steve Riggs is a retired teaching professional with over 30 years experience working with students around the U.S. and Caribbean. CoHost of the USGA NATIONAL JUNIORS Golf Tournament at Yale Golf Club, Steve has designed and consulted on several swing improvement tools like the Grip Trainer Golf Training Glove and the Sindelar Putting System. Steve is a member of the GWAA (Golf Writers Association of America) and Producer/Host of the myNEGM Lesson Tee Radio/Internet Show now in its 4th year. The show, on WNRI 1380AM radio, streams live Wednesdays 10:05-11am at mynegm.com and wnri.com)

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Two Good Rounds Bubba in Bermuda - Think Pink by Elisa Gaudet

While the hype of the green jacket begins to fade we turn our attention to pink. With his love of pink, Bubba Watson going to Bermuda seems to be a role he was born to play. And while most NFL players are just starting to dream of the Superbowl and those winning words "I'm going to Disneyland." Bubba is the first in the foursome to say, "I'm going to Bermuda" Bubba Watson, one of the most popular players in the game, earned the first spot in the 2012 PGA Grand Slam of Golf field by winning the 2012 Masters. Watson will be joined by the year's remaining three other major champions, Oct. 22-24, at Port Royal Golf Course in Bermuda. e 6,842-yard, par-71 Port Royal is a public course that opened for play in 1970. e PGA Grand Slam of Golf features a $1.35 million purse, with the winner receiving $600,000, second - $300,000, third - $250,000 and fourth - $200,000. With only four players in the field, I like the odds. It reminds me of youth sports today - everyone walks away a winner. While this event has been around since 1979 in various formats, it has grown to a 36-hole annual showdown that matches golf's best against each other and the breathtaking Port Royal Golf Course. Well-known for its pink beaches and pink shorts, Bermuda is much more than what is exported. A very easy flight from the East Coast, this island paradise seduces you with varying shades of blue ocean water, pink-sand beaches, amazing golf and ex-

tremely friendly locals. This extraordinary island is 22 miles long and 3 miles wide and boasts nine golf courses, the highest concentration per square mile in the world. The signature hole at Port Royal is the 176-yard, par-3 16th hole, whose small green is perched on the edge of the coastal cliffs. Drive too far left and the ball ends up in the ocean. It was here I received a full dose of Bermudian hospitality with a lesson as to the best way to play the 16th by Kim Swan, a former European Tour pro and now an elected Member of Parliament. When we arrived at the 16th, I asked Kim if he was going to take off his blazer jacket. His response was one of the most interesting golf tips I have ever heard. Kim learned to play golf from his uncle, who used to have Kim practice in a blazer as it prevented him from over-swinging and helped with his alignment. Never one to miss an opportunity to savor the local flavor, the signature cocktails on the island are the "Rum Swizzle" and the "Dark and Stormy." e Rum Swizzle consists of Gosling's rum, Angostura bitters, lemon, pineapple, and orange juice and grenadine syrup. e Dark and Stormy consists of Gosling's dark rum and ginger beer over ice. While Disneyland is fabulous and it would be great to have a Super Bowl ring I'd still prefer a green jacket and a trip to Bermuda. So here is my tip to Bubba: Pack the green jacket as you will need a blazer anyway and go with the pink sox it will match the driver.

May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 63

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Team New England On The Tours

#teamnewengland

All U.S. professional tours are underway, at this writing, and Keegan Bradley, 2011 winner of the PGA Championship and Byron Nelson in his rookie season is off to what could be an even bigger year for the Woodstock, VT native. A total of 30 players on the PGA, Champions, LPGA Nationwide and Symetra Futures tours make up our Team New England for 2012. TNE stands to make a significant contribution to professional competitive golf this year thanks to our talented players.

PGA TOUR Keegan Bradley, (VT) so far in 2012 has made 10 cuts in 10 starts with1-2nd place. 3 top 10s and 9 top 25 finishes to date. Keegan’s earnings of $1,609,692 bodes well for this VT native’s chances for another great year. Scoring average for Keegan is 69.58. Brett Quigley, (RI) has made the cut in his solo start this year earning $31,858 with a current scoring average of 68.75. If Brett keeps up his averages we’re sure to see him earn his PGA full playing privileges this year. Brett is playing on the Nationwide Tour in addition to the PGA Tour. Tim Petrovic, (MA) earned $60,750 making 2 cuts in 4 starts thus far in 2012 with a scoring average of 71.17. While Tim had his problems last year, losing his full status on the PGA Tour, he is also competing on the Nationwide and remains one of TNE’s best players. James Driscoll, (MA) has earned $307,360 making 7 cuts in 10 starts with 1 top 10 and 1 top 25. James’ scoring average sits at 70.91. Known as ‘bubble boy’, Driscoll is quietly improving those playing stats, promising a good year in 2012. J.J. Henry, (CT) is oﬀ to a slow start this year making just 4 cuts in 11 starts earning $143,385. Henry’s scoring average is 71.59. Again, J.J. is one of TNE’s ‘steady eddy’s’ on the PGA Tour. Scott Stallings (MA) has made just 3 cut in 9 starts this year with earnings of $146,564 and a scoring average of 73.04 that has slipped since the last issue. Scott is having a slow start after a stunning year in 2011.

CHAMPIONS TOUR Brad Faxon, (RI) in his first full year on the Champions tour has 6 starts with 2 top 25 finishes. Brad’s earnings are at $73,943 with a scoring average of 71.89.

P.H. Horgan III, (RI) has 5 starts earning $65,604 to date with an improved scoring average of 72 over last month’s issue. Horgan is playing well as he continues his full time status on the Champions Tour. Dana Quigley, (MA) has started 5 times this season earning $26,369 with a scoring average of 73.47. As the iron man continues his play, our prayers remain with his family and son. Allen Doyle, (RI) has started 4 times so far this year earning $8,268. e Woonsocket native has a scoring average of 74 at this writing.

LPGA TOUR Alison Walshe, (MA) has made 3 cuts in 4 starts with earnings of $161,074 and oﬀ to a good start on the LPGA Tour in 2012.

Anna Grzebien, (RI) has 1 start this far in 2012 with no earnings.

Fran Quinn, (MA) playing both the PGA and Nationwide tours did not make the cut in his solo appearance this year on the PGA Tour. Fran’s scoring average is 76 after his solo start which is not reflective of his talent. Patrick Sheehan, (MA) has made 2 cuts in 5 starts after regaining his PGA Tour status via the Nationwide Tour. Patrick’s earnings are $37,760 with a scoring average of 71.2

Show Your Team New England Pride! 64 | New England Golf Monthly | March 2011

NEGolfMonthly #teamnewengland

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LPGA SYMATRA FUTURES TOUR

NATIONWIDE TOUR Brad Adamonis, (RI) has made 3 cuts in 6 starts with 1 top 25 finish thus far with earnings of $10,189 and a scoring average of 72.39 which is up over last month’s report.

While the Futures Tour has only one event played at this writing, only a few have started their season for TNE in 2012. Natalie Sheary, (CT) begins her 2nd year on the Futures circuit after posting 3 top 10 finishes and earning $15,011 starting in 11 starts her rookie season. Sheary, suiting up for the solo tour event has yet to post any earnings.

Trevor Murphy, (VT) has yet to begin his 2012 season on the Nationwide Tour after earnings of $42,352 in 2011.

Chelsea Curtis, (MA) has not started her 3rd season on the Futures Tour. A stunning rookie season saw Chelsea stumble with her swing and game in 2011 earning only $4,416 last year in 15 event starts.

Jim Renner, (MA) while suiting up for 6 events making 2 cuts thus far in 2012. Jim’s scoring average is at 70.69 which is down significantly from last month.--

Libby Smith, (VT) has yet to begin this 2012 season and struggled after earning $3,578 in the Thailand Ladies Open Libby competed in just 4 events earning a combined total of $4,138.

Rob Oppenheim, (MA) has made 3 cuts and 3 top 10 finishes in his 6 starts this year. Rob has earned $64,550 and currently has a scoring average of 69.56.

Julie Erekson, (MA) completed three years on the Futures earning $3,789 in her 10 starts out there. With her new life in Texas, Julie is not currently listed on the roster in 2012.

Geoﬀ Sisk, (MA) earning $38,655 in 2011 has yet to start this year on the Nationwide as of this writing.

Justin Peters, (MA) like Sisk and Murphy has yet to suit up this year on the Nationwide.

Kim Augusta, (RI) is a veteran of competitive golf having played on the LPGA TOUR for several years. Kim has been working on her game and swing the past couple years earning $2,087 in 15 starts last year. She did not compete in the first event of the Symetra season.

Jeff Curl, (CT) made the cut in his 2 starts of 2012 with earnings of $6,913 and a scoring average of 70.63.

Briana Vega, (MA) had 16 starts in 2011 earning $5,238 for her efforts. Recall Briana was the 2006 Golf Channel’s Big Break Challenge winner. Vega posted earnings of $558 in the first event of the year. Vega is only TNE player to post in the first tournament. Haley Gidea, (RI) did not compete in 2011 even though she’d been playing competitively since 2008. We hope to see Haley and the big stick in 2012.

2012 New England Tour Events

August 29 - September 3 2012 deutschebankchampionship.com

Susan Choi, (MA) suited up for 3 events in 2011 missing the cut in all. We do hope to see her out there in 2012

June 18 - 24 2012 travelerschampionship.com

June 17 - 19 2012 cvscharityclassic.com

June 21 - 24 2012 thelegendstour.com

March 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 65

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Palopoli’s Picks The PLAYERS Championship

by Jeﬀ Palopoli

On May 10th the TOUR heads back to Florida for what some call the “Fifth Major”, e Players Championship. e Stadium course at the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Florida is home to one of the most recognizable par 3s in the world. e par-3, 132-yard 17th hole, known simply as the "Island Green", is one of golf's most recognizable, as well as diﬃcult holes. Many a player has dunked a ball or two in to the drink here, and it’s even seen its fair share of hole-in-ones as well. Last year KJ Choi defeated David Toms on the first hole of a sudden death playoﬀ. It was Choi’s first victory since 2008. is year Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods were early commitments to the field, and will both be looking to improve upon their showings at the Masters just a few short weeks ago.

The Picks: A Group: Luke Donald and Rory McIlroy have been taking turns with the World #1 for most of the season. Even with a win at the Transitions Championship, Donald’s season didn’t start as many had expected. He’s beginning to turn it around, and had a great showing at the Zurich Classic, where he placed 3rd. e TPC Sawgrass places a premium on precise iron play and there’s not many that can compare to Donald on that list. He also ranks 2nd on TOUR in strokes gained putting, as well as scrambling. B Group: Within the B group there are a lot of options to choose from. Hunter Mahan is currently the only multi-winner on TOUR so far this season and his consistent play has jumped him up to #5 in the OWGR, behind Bubba Watson (the only two Americans in the top 5). Mahan finished T6 at the Players in 2011. Starting alongside Mahan, I can’t pass on Rory McIlroy. Even though his showing at the Masters (T40) wasn’t

66 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

anything to write home about, he’s the best player in the world and leads the TOUR in scoring average. C Group: For the C group I’ll be starting Jason Dufner. e club waggling, extremely laid back 35 year old just notched his first PGA TOUR victory two weeks ago at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. Dufner had been knocking on victory’s door many times, but finally got over the hump in New Orleans. He currently ranks 5th in the “all around” category, and also finished T6 at the Players last year and his name seems to be a consistent sight near the top of the leaderboard lately. Starting Foursome: : Luke Donald, Hunter Mahan, Rory McIlroy, Jason Dufner On e Bench: Phil Mickelson, Justin Rose, Ernie Els, Ben Crane You can follow Jeff’s weekly Fantasy Golf picks online each week at www.mynegm.com. Jeff also writes on his blog at www.goodwalkgolf.com and can be reached at jeff@goodwalkgolf.com

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College Corner Huskies Finish 6th at BIG EAST Championship REUNION, Fla. - Senior Matt Carroll (Heathrow, Fla.) fired a second consecutive sub-par round Tuesday to lead the University of Connecticut men’s golf team to a sixth-place finish at the BIG EAST Men’s Golf Championship at Reunion Resort in Florida, the Huskies’ best showing at the leaguecompetition in five years. Carroll’s second straight 1-under par 71 gave him a three-round even-par 216, His 13 birdies were the most by anybody in the 60-player field.

Rams Finish Fifth at Rain-Shortened Atlantic 10 Championship Both Andrew Fiorenzano and Branden Chicorka were named to the Atlantic 10's AllConference team e Rams finished in fifth place overall, posting two of their best team scores of the season. Rhody compiled a second round score of 289 – the team's lowest score of the spring and the second lowest of the year. George Washington took the conference title. “is a bittersweet tournament for us because we lose the heart and soul of our golf team in Taylor Fontaine, who will be graduating. He has meant a greatdeal to the entire university during his four-year career." -- Head coach Gregg Burke

Johnson & Wales Spring Wildcat Invitational CRANSTON, RI - e golf team finished in a fiveway tie for fourth place at the sixth-annual Wildcats Spring Invitational at the

Cranston Country Club over the weekend. JWU shot a 480 (320-160) while Husson took home the team championship with a 468 (313-155) over the par 71 course that measures 6,493 yards. e tournament was shortened to 27 holes after poor weather conditions on Sunday afternoon. Southern Maine's Josh Hogan took home medalist honors for the tournament, carding a 110 (72-38).

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May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 67

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What’s News Congratulations to an MGA Member Club Golf Professional; Francis Kringle of The Blandford Club Named the 2012 Western Mass Tee Party Honoree One MGA Member Club golf professional has been recognized for his outstanding service.Francis Kringle, the head golf professional at The Blandford Club, will be recognized by the Western Mass Tee Party for his commitment to golf and service to that community in Western Massachusetts. Kringle will receive his award and be the guest of honor at the 66th Western Mass. Tee party scheduled for May 3rd at Tekoa Country Club in Westfield.

Amateurs and Professional Players Encouraged to Sign Up for the 21stCape Cod Open Which Features a New 54-Hole Stroke-Play Format With qualifying for the 2012 Massachusetts Open Championship scheduled for the upcoming months, there is exciting news coming from Cape Cod. e organizers of the 21st Annual Cape Cod Open Championship - scheduled for May 30-31 at Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds Golf Course and Hyannis Golf Club - have announced an exciting new format for 2012. e Pro-Am first round has been eliminated and that prize money has been added to the tournament

68 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

purse. As a result, the 160-player field will compete in 54 holes of individual stroke-play competition in hopes of earning part of the more than $25,000 purse. e first 18 holes are set for Olde Barnstable GC on May 30. After a cut to the low 80 and ties, the second and third rounds will be played at Hyannis GC on May 31. Entries and additional information are available at www.ccopen.com.

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Mike Hermanson Honored For Distinguished Service by the GCSane After a call for nominations, a lengthy review of the nominees by the Distinguished Service Award Committee, and approval from the board of directors of the GCSANE the call came into Mike Hermanson’s phone on December 17, 2011. Hermanson was told he was the winner of our association’s most prestigious award, the Distinguished Service Award for 2012. A surprised and modest Hermanson responded with an appreciative “That’s fantastic, I’m so honored!!”

Centennial Spirit Encouraged This year marks the kickoff of the “Ouimet 100” celebrations commemorating Ouimet’s win in the 1913 US Open. In that spirit, we are encouraging all players at Ouimet Society events to wear period dress recalling the era in which Francis played. We will offer special prize opportunities for those who play in knickers, shirt and tie, dress, etc. In past years, period dress has been a popular way to celebrate the game’s traditions while building camaraderie. We look forward to seeing many players participate this year. www.ouimet.org

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May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 69

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What’s News Amateurs have more ways to qualify for World Golfers Championship Unlike other amateur tours in the United States, World Golfers USA actually offers amateur golfers with the added opporunity of representing their country in an international competition as the18th annual World Golfers Champship returns to Durban, South Africa Oct. 27Nov. 3. e 72-hole event is scheduled at the Durban Country Club, Prince’s Grant Golf Estate, the Umblali Country Club and the Zimbali Country Club. e Fairmont Zimbali will serve as the host facility. Players at the top of their local order of merit in local tours (see www.wgatusa.com for complete list) will earn expense-paid trips to the U.S. finals, scheduled Sept. 20-22 at Indiana National Golf Club at Swan Lake Resort in Plymouth, IN. Memberhip costs $189 for the right to participate in these 18-hole local events. “Eliminating the financial burden of taking a

golf trip around the world ensures that all amateur golfers in the United States can have the opportunity to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Anders Bengtson, owner of World Golfers USA. U.S. tournament director Jim Stockman feels the additional ways to qualify will allow Team USA players to be more tournament ready in the future. While an eighth place finish is the best for the U.S. as a team, it has had some top three finishes in the individual divisions by Texas golfers Paul Goering, Bill Nitcholas and Bill Neal in the past two events.

Dont Miss the 2012 United States Junior Amateur at The Golf Club of New England July 16 - 21, 2012.

For More Information Visit GolfClubNE.com

70 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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Northeast Accessible Golf Association - Golf For All

Building self-confidence and independence through the game of golf for those contending with physical and cerebral challenges, The Northeast Accessible Golf Association is designed to engage men, women, and children who contend with chronic challenges such as blindness, amputation, spinal cord injuries, stroke, PTSD, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, and other debilitating conditions. We work with Veterans Hospitals and rehabilitation hospital adaptive sports programs to bring a holistic approach to patient therapy and recovery. We offer free golf clinics across New England to participants who contend with chronic developmental and physical challenges. When appropriate, golf clinics are preceded by an

unobtrusive evaluation performed by certified therapists from the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. Based on the results of this analysis, golf instruction is tailored to suit the specific needs of each participant and is taught by PGA Professionals who have successfully completed the Northeast Accessible Golf Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proprietary certification process. During each clinic, golfers are provided with instruction, clubs, balls, adaptive equipment and vehicles (where and when available). If individuals express the interest, we have the ability to introduce participants to competitive golfing techniques and facilitate opportunities to compete against disabled and able-bodied opponents. 617-600-HOPE(4673) www.neaccessiblegolf.org Northeast Accessible Golf Association P.O. Box 81246 Wellesley Hills, MA 02481

May 2012| New England Golf Monthly | 71

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Play the Help Hope Live Golf Tournament In Honor of Devon Quigley To Benefit the Southeast Traumatic Brain Injury Fund

ere is still space available to play in a charity event being run by the RIGA to benefit the Southeast Traumatic Brain Injury Fund in Honor of Devon Quigley at the prestigious Misquamicut Club on Wednesday, May 16th. Registration is at 11 AM, lunch at Noon, and a 1pm Shotgun Start followed by cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, silent aution and raﬄe. Danna Quigley, Jim Thorpe, Paul Parajeckas and Jason Parajeckas will be playing in the event as well. The tournament is limited to the first

100 paid registrations. If you can’t play please consider donating golf-related items for the raffle or silent auction. For More Information Contact Philip Koretski at 401.348.2200 or email him at pck@themisquamicutclub.com. HelpHopeLive.org (find a Patient: Devon Quigley) CaringBridge.org/visit/DEVONQUIGLEY Facebook.com – DEVOS ARMY

With four sets of tees and superbly maintained greens and fairways, Easton Country Club offers a fun and challenging round for any golfing ability. Semi-private, offering memberships, Easton is a par 71 regulation course with a natural grass driving range, and is conveniently located just south of Boston. Our layout and banquet room is perfect for outings. Come and enjoy!

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EastonCountryClub.com | 265 Purchase St. South Easton, MA 02375 72 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

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The Teecil - A tee and pencil in one!

Like many fathers and sons bonding over their love of the game, Stephen Squillante (a.k.a. Junior) often accompanied his father Stephen (a.k.a. Senior) to the golf course. He recalls his father standing on the green with a tee tucked behind one ear and a pencil behind the other. Senior always placed a golf tee over one of his ears and a pencil over the other. As he set up his tee shot, he would often reach over the wrong ear and grab his pencil, when he needed his tee. At the end of the hole when it was time to fill out the scorecard, he would reach over the wrong ear again and grab a tee when he needed his pencil. Junior realized he needed to find a solution to this problem, so the Teecil was born. Creating a golf tee that could also function as a pencil would eliminate the need to carry both a tee and a pencil. No matter what his father was doing, whether it was keeping score or teeing oﬀ, if he had a Teecil, he would always have his pencil. e Teecil is a quality, wooden golf tee with a functional pencil tip. Because only the tip of the Teecil is a pencil, its use has no impact on your game but with one

important difference, your game is simplified. Since every Teecil has a pencil tip, you no longer need a scoring pencil. You use your Teecil as you would a normal wooden tee. When the Teecil breaks, you just grab another. If your Teecil gets dirty from use, just grab another one and you will have a clean scoring pencil. Since it is a quality, wooden tee, there is no impact to the flight of the ball. Either re-use the Teecil after you tee off or grab another Teecil. Either way, your scoring pencil is always available. e Original Teecil comes with a natural body color and Teecil Green lettering. Teecils can also be personalized with your message or logo using a variety of body and print colors. Golf courses, golf tournaments, company promotional items, special events or a gift for the golfer in your family are just a few of the more popular uses of a personalized Teecil. e Teecil, including its raw materials, are all proudly sourced and manufactured in America. Place your order at www.teecil.com by August 1st and get 10% off with promotional code NEGM.

May 2012 | New England Golf Monthly | 73

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EDITOR / PUBLISHER

Timothy R. Branco

tim@nepubinc.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Chris Hunter

myNEGM.com

ADMINISTRATION

May 2012 Vol V. Issue III

CollectiveThoughtMedia.com

Mary L. Hullett

mary@nepubinc.com

CONTRIBUTORS Tom Gorman Greg Sampson Tim Geary John Molori John Lyon Alice Scott Pam Borges Laura Ebrecht Bob DiCesare Steve Riggs Robert Martin Jeff Palopoli Kathleen Dyson Emily Kay Matt Adams Jack Ross Jim Hammond Danny Scott Ed Travis Leigh McKay Elisa Gaudet

PGA TOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Ken Dennis kendennisphoto.com

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Elle Brec ellebrecgolf@gmail.com

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May 2012 | New England Golf Monthly | 75

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Gorman vs. Geary by Tom Gorman and Tim Geary

What are your top 10 pet peeves in golf? by Tom Gorman

Despite Tim Geary’s lame, monthly puff pieces, golf does have a dark side and this month we explore golf’s dirty little secrets. e topic gets my juices flowing. It brings out the worst in me since it’s time to vent, shout loudly and call out the bozos, blowhards and punks in the game who try to ruin it for the rest of us! Before beginning my list of top 10 pet peeves in golf let me warm up with few swipes at lightweight Tim Geary, a career Brad Faxon rumpswab, who tries to be so politically correct it’s nauseating. at dope can’t possibly write a top 10 list without pissing someone off, so send your hate mail to his address, my mailbox is full. #10) Too Many Cups! Golf overflows with Cups. Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, FedEx Cup, Curtis Cup, Solheim Cup, World Cup. Drape the U.S. flag around a cup and it guarantees huge profits for the PGA of America (Ryder Cup) and PGA Tour (Presidents Cup). What other sport takes its best athletes and owns them for a week, telling them what to wear, what to eat, where to play, what to do, what to say and then questions why they should be paid. e Ryder Cup is not about country, it’s about money! #9) Golfers Who Wear Watches! Not sure where the stupid trend began but I think it’s the mid 90s with Payne Stewart, in classic knickers and cap, but he always wore a wrist watch while competing. Phil Mickelson sold his soul to Rolex for a one-time sponsor fee of $2 million to wear a watch. Golf is a copy cat sport and this is another bad habit that average hackers took straight from the PGA Tour. Final answer: ere is no place for watches on a golf course and it does not make you a better player but rather proves that you’re an idiot and the ultimate copy cat. Duh! #8) Read the Rule Book! ere are too many rules in golf but three basic rules you should know. Out of bounds means stroke and distance, not point of entry. Red hazard stake means lateral relief of two club lengths and unplayable lie translates into relief with two club lengths. Got it? #7) Turn Off the Cell Phone! All private courses have a policy that bans cell phones from being used while playing, but rarely is anyone disciplined. Show a little class and respect for your partners and shut the phone off. #6) Nice Shot! Know when to shut your mouth on the golf course. Maybe well-intentioned, but nothing productive results when you compliment a playing partner with “nice shot” only to see the ball trickle into a bunker,

76 | New England Golf Monthly | May 2012

creek or worse, beyond the out of bounds white stake. If it’s your opponent, restrain your celebration. #5) Women Playing in Men’s Tournaments! ere’s a reason courses are set up with men, women and juniors tee boxes. Also, there are tournaments designated for men only and women only. Is this hard to comprehend? It was a mistake to allow Michelle Wie and Anika Sorenstam to play in a PGA Tour event. e only females allowed to play with men – Paula Creamer and Natalie Gulbus, maybe Morgan Pressel. #4) Blowhard Board Members! Clubhouse politics is poison. How many times have you seen newly appointed committee chairman get so full of themselves? ree words best describe Board members at my club: Arrogant. Ignorant. Abusive. You can’t fix stupid because this Board pledges fiscal responsibility yet offers unlimited free Poland Spring bottled water and free unlimited guest privileges to 20 committee chairs, resulting in thousands of dollars in revenue lost each year. How do you define abuse? #3) Don’t Give Unsolicited Advice! is pet peeve should be universally observed by all duffers. Never, ever give unsolicited advice to another hacker, even though they have a flawed swing, poor stance, weak grip and continue to hit a small, white ball badly towards the wrong hole. #2) Golf Carts With Handicap Flags! Hold me back when I see a golf cart parked a few feet from a green. Lately, I see more handicap players abusing the privilege of taking the cart off the cart path for easier access to their wayward shots and to tees and greens. ere are places that a cart should not be driven and it’s time to discipline the abusers with suspensions, or making them use seven clubs, instead of 14. #1) Get A Lesson! Nothing infuriates me more than when I see a cocky, middle-aged Baby Boomer step out of a new 528i BMW, hoist a new Callaway golf bag with $2,000 in custom-made irons and metal woods over his shoulder, including $275 Scotty Cameron putter and Titleist Vokey wedge and step up to the first tee and pump two balls OB. It’s hilarious, yet painful and happens all the time. Get a life, but importantly, spend your money wisely and get a lesson! Tom Gorman, a Boston-based freelance golf writer, asks that from this day forward, due to a dramatic increase in hate mail, future hate mail be sent to either Mr. Geary or to the editor.

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What are your top 10 pet peeves in golf? by Tim Geary

This month you, the reader, get a break from Gorman and me sniping at each other in the form of a debate. Our task is something that all veteran golfers should have a closet full of, namely listing our pet golf peeves. ose are the things that “other” people do on the golf course that frost our flakes. We have been asked to list our top 10 peeves. Too bad because my list would go far beyond 10. Not included in my list is; playing golf with Gorman. It’s bad enough to have to work with the guy. He even wants strokes in our debates; People who walk ahead of you while you are trying to hit a shot; Slow play. ere's no reason for it. You can stink up the course in four hours the same as you can in five and on some days it should only take three-and-a-halfhours; People who extract the ball from the cup with their putter; Greens keepers who don't use the plate when inserting the cup, leaving a raised crown around the hole; People who don't rake out a bunker and leave you dealing with a million foot prints; e USGA for not having a rule where you get relief from A) a footprint in a bunker and B) a divot in your fairway. at should be deemed ground under repair because it most certainly will be repaired. ose are peeves that didn’t make the top 10 cut. Here’s what did. 10: People who drink on the golf course. ey are constantly looking for the cart girl, which I am too, but it’s not to purchase anything. 9: ose who wait until it's their turn to putt and then survey every inch of ground on the green. One of the biggest reasons why the four hour round is a myth. 8: People who, when you point out that they broke the rules, answer with, "is ain't the PGA Tour pal." Hey, the rules are written for everyone, from the beginner to the guy wearing the green jacket. 7: People who start up golf carts when leaving an

adjoining green or tee box just as you are putting. What I’d like to say about them cannot be printed here. 6: People who hit your golf ball despite the fact that you have clearly marked it and then deny having done so even though their ball is lying in a bunker. ey answer, “No, I hit my ball!” even though five feet away is their piece of junk, with their name and address stamped on the side. 5: Cell Phones on the golf course. It's okay to have them with you but if you have to carry it at least have it on vibrate. I once played in a foursome where one of my partners talked constantly, until another took his phone and threw it in the lake (really). A fistfight ensued. 4: People who insist on conducting business while playing golf. If you want to talk to somebody in China then do it from an oﬃce. Get your damn business deductions somewhere other than my foursome. 3: ose who think you can go to your car after the front nine and change drivers just because the one you've been using is producing horrendous shots. Read the rule book pal. I know, this ain’t the PGA Tour, but we are playing a $5.00 Nassau. 2: ose folks who give themselves preferred lies everywhere, get five shots a side and then brag in the 19th hole about how they kicked your rear end. Play it where it lies unless local rules give you preferred lies and that never applies to the ROUGH. 1: Golf carts. Golf was made for walking. Carts are for the infirmed. And truth be told, they actually slow down play, especially when you have to lug half your bag 50 yards across the fairway from where the path is. Tim Geary is a R.I. based freelance writer. e only thing he hopes upsets other golfers is his great play.

Have a Topic for Gorman vs. Geary in 2012? Email editor Tim Branco – tim@nepubinc.com or let us know on Facebook.com/NEGolfMonthly May 2012 | New England Golf Monthly | 77

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