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From the Editor As Good As It Gets We have once again just turned the corner from summer and for the 9th year The Deutsche Bank Championship wrapped up on Monday, Labor Day, as part of a New England tradition. Over the last 9 years this event has grown into a mini major and has become the second event in the Fed Ex Cup race and the PGA Tour Playoffs. It has for New Englanders become a fantastic sports week with the Yankees / Red Sox at Fenway and the New England Patriots last pre-season game at Gillette Stadium with the NY Giants. The PGA Tour version of the playoffs represents a 30 million dollar purse with 10 million going to the 2011 points winner. Golf is a game with no guarantees, very much like life, you get out what you put in. There are no multi year player contracts or signing bonuses in golf. It is simply one against all at every event all season long. If you do not maintain your play at the highest level in the game, you are automatically demoted to the Nationwide Tour to once again regain your status. In the last 10 years we all have seen more new faces in the game then anytime during the games history, the game is getting younger. I for one loved the rivalry of Tiger vs Mickelson or V.J but I relish in the record number of first time winners this year. There is one sure thing about professional golf that is absolute, the games spirit of giving. Professional golf recently reached the 1 billion dollar mark in charitable giving and continues to grow that number in its support of thousands of causes throughout the U.S. each year. Since 2003 the Deutsche Bank Championship raised over 20 million dollars for the Tiger Woods Foundation and local New England charities. What’s more the economic impact of the tournament accounts for somewhere between 50-75 million dollars over the week-long event to local business and industry. You have got to just love this game called golf!
CONTENTS
The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson
by Emily Kay
14
Good Looks on the Course
15
Kay's Korner
by Elle Brec
Couple of Travelers by Jack Ross
24
Molori Unplugged
25
Ross's Rulings
by John Molori
Northern Exposure Celebrity Golfer
28
by Leigh MacKay
Palopoli's Picks
32
NEPGA Profile
40
by Jeff Palopoli
by Bob DiCesare
myNEGM Lesson Tee
Timothy R. Branco
Gorman vs. Geary by Gorman & Geary
4 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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by Dave Irons
by Steve Riggs
THE PREFERRED PUBLICATION OF THE NEPGA
22
by Alice and Danny Scott
Make Your Next Round Your Best Tim@NEpubinc.com
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18 Hole SemiPrivate Course Pro Shop open to Public Golf Outings Available Starter: (401)842-0126 Clubhouse and Lounge Open to Public Banquet Room - 200 Person Capacity Perfect for Weddings Clubhouse: (401)847-9543
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The Perfect Life by Katherine Dyson
Living Large on The Links at Ipswich Country Club If living is good and you want have your cake and eat it too in greater Boston, than The Homes at Ipswich Country Club says you have arrived. Ipswich a small seaside community nestled along the north shore in Massachusetts, between Newburyport and Gloucester is one of the oldest towns in the country founded in 1633. It’s character and New England charm make it a “Perfect Life” fit for living in the heart of it all. Ipswich is Just minutes from the Hub of New England, Boston, and all this great city has to offer. This gated community has it all with full service maintenance including landscaping and snow removal as well as golf, swimming and tennis in an exclusive club home setting. The Ipswich Country Club a Club Corp USA facility was built in 1989. This Robert Trent Jones Sr. design is a par 72 at over 7000 yards with a course rating of 75.2/140. It is a great design that recently was com-
pletely updated with 5 million dollars in improvements. In addition to Golf, there is an Olympic sized swimming pool, a Junior Olympic sized swimming pool, 6 HARTRU tennis courts and an Exercise / Fitness Center located in the Clubhouse and are available to members. The 221 private homes at Ipswich were built by some of the regions finest custom builders and offer traditional New England living at its best. Our featured residence is on 191 Country Club Way a wonderful 6500 sq. ft. home on the 13th fairway at the club. This custom 4 bedroom home sited on a corner lot with beautiful landscaping, overlooking the 13th fairway. Many unique features including oversized rooms, white birch and huge stainless kitchen, 2 en suite bedrooms on second, high ceilings, two elegant Grand Alle's, delightful screened in Gazebo and all the extras as well for $1,140,000.
Home Suite Home Away Fifth Ave. South in Naples with all its trendy shops like Altered Elements and hidden-in-an-alley Brambles Tea Room & Gift Shop is minutes away from those who call Quail West home for the winter (or more). Here in this luxury gated community, there are no condos, just one-of-a-kind custom homes and La Caille single family villas along with two highly rated golf courses by Arthur Hills: The Preserve and the Lakes Course. Residences start at about $1 million. Residents can drive their own golf carts around the 1800-acre complex, to the lagoon-style solarium pool, spa, golf course, clubhouse, tennis courts and restaurants. They also have private access to the beach. Quailwest.com
6 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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Perfect Golf Vacation Playground Whether you are an empty nester, single, or family, there is one exceptional place you can call home in the colder months: Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort in Destin on northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. You will never run out of things to do here with 2,400 acres containing 30 village neighborhoods, seven miles of sugary sand beaches, four championship golf courses, a 98-slip marina, water sports, spa, restaurants — we could go on and on. Courses include Baytowne, Burnt Pine, Raven and The Links. There are a variety of villas, condos and home sites for sale. If you want to try before you buy, you can rent one of the 1,300 accommodations. Sandestin.com
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Brilliant Bling Make your mark with eye-popping style. Priced at $10,000, the special order 950 Platinum TRI Marker from TRI Mark Golf’s Executive Series, is hand-crafted with a ring of diamonds and comes with a platinum 16.5” Bead Link Necklace delivered to your door in an exotic luxury driving machine of your choice — perhaps a Ferrari or Lamborghini. This little gem is one bit of bling you won’t want to throw casually in your pocket or golf bag. If you’re more of a bargain sort of person, there is the white gold marker with a lilac amethyst center studded with sapphires, and ice blue topaz for just $2,758. Or design your own! Trimarkgolf.com
Your Ultimate Golf Vacation Imagine playing Pinehurst No. 2, venue for the 2014 U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open, strolling into a quintessential golf town and staying in a fine old historic inn. Recently renovated by Coore & Crenshaw to bring it back to Donald Ross’s original intention, No. 2 evokes the Pinehurst of the early 1900s. Your three day/two night ultimate Golf Vacation includes accommodations in the grand dame, The Carolina, a round of golf per day (three days) including a round on No. 2, cart, sleeve of golf balls, two breakfasts and dinners at $1,391 per person, per night, double occupancy. (Ask for the Donald Ross Package). Nearby play two more great courses, the Dormie Club, a new Coore & Crenshaw design and Pine Needles, another classic by Donald Ross. Pinehurst.com
fridge. You can make the Garia uniquely you by customizing with more than 100 different colors in body, roof and upholstery. Garia.com
Worth their Weight in Gold They look expensive and they are. We’re talking about 5-Star grade Honma clubs with a crowned titanium head embellished with P1000 platinum and 24k. Each club sells for more than $4,000 apiece. Handcrafted in Honma’s factory in Sakata, Japan, these highend sticks are definitely for those who covet the finer things in life. Honma offers less-expensive clubs as well in it Beres line. Honmagolf.com
Golden Girls Putting It could be called the most exclusive putter in the world. Made by Barth & Sons, a Germanymade company, it’s called the GoldenPutter. The First Lady Special Edition of the GoldenPutter has a gleaming golden shaft, 24k gold plated putter head with crystal inlays and bright pink leather grip. It costs just over $3,000, but wait. There is more. If you’re a “Diamonds is a Girl’s Best Friend” kind of gal, you can spring for the Special Edition diamond model at $150,000. Golden Putters are made for men too and come in a cherry wood box. Thegoldenputter.com
Golf Bag Ou La La Product M58221 represents the top of the upper echelon of golf bag couture. Crafted by French master Louis Vuitton in typical understated elegance, every detail from the monogrammed canvas and leather trim exterior to the numerous pockets spell class. $11,700. Louisvitton.com
The Perfect Golf Carrying Machine Go Way Cool on and off course with Garia Put on your driving goggles and be prepared to drive to the golf course then back home. Yes, the Garia golf cart is street legal and equipped with seat belts, side mirrors, and hydraulic brakes. But no speeding tickets: you can only move at 25 mph tops. Great for Bermuda! Your price for this vehicle of $62,000 gives you handstitched seats, digital instruments, stereo and dashboard
Range Rover Sport HSE priced from $60,495 is the kind of rugged, reliable car, which can take you over mountains to courses like Devil’s Knob on the top of a mountain at the Wintergreen Resort or Primland’s Highland Course running across a ridge in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Your Range Rover Sport HSE has a 5-inch TFT-LCD screen and a 7-inch touch-screen so you can’t get lost. Then it sports comfort features like 8-way electrically adjustable leather seats and seat bolsters along with mood lighting and things to make your life easier including heated exterior
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make great scones BTW for his wife’s coffee shop in Lower Largo, Fife, Scotland) plays out of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews while Peper, former editor of Golf Magazine divides his time between Portsmouth, R.I. and St. Andrews. The 308-page book published by Artisan Books in New York, is priced at $40. Artisanbooks.com
Most Historic 19th Hole mirrors and a rear view camera to keep you from backing into the baggage stand. Need extra space for your golfing foursome? Add a Sports Equipment Sports Box or Cargo Carrier to the exterior of your Range Rover. With stainless steel tread plates and 20-inch 15-spoke alloy wheels, this is one cool car. Landrover.com
On the Trail of the Most Expensive Round Quick. What first comes to mind when you think “expensive green fee?” Pebble Beach? Good guess but you would be wrong. It’s Shadow Creek Golf Club in Las Vegas, perhaps the most exclusive track in the country. You have to be a guest of MGM Resorts International to have the privilege of paying $500 to put cleats on the ground to play this Tom Fazio design while Pebble’s green fee squeaks just under the fee at $495 for their resort guests including a cart. But you get an extra perk or two at Shadow Creek: limo service from the Strip to the course and caddie fees, snacks and shoe service. And you are after all, playing where presidents and celebs play and where Michael Jordan holds the celebrity course record. Shadowcreek.com
The 19th hole at the Country Club Locker Room Bar in Brookline, Massachusetts, has to be recognized as one of the most historic 19th holes in the country. Even the audacious name “The Country Club” says it all. When it was founded by Boston bluebloods in 1882, there simply wasn’t another golf club around, so why go further. Since that time, thirsty golfers have been gathering at the bar, swapping tales, reliving holes, making deals. tcclub.com
Getting it on with Jamie It takes little insider knowledge to recognize when a lady is wearing a Jamie Sadock design. Her apparel simply has that extra pizzazz or glitz. Sleek, sexy, wild, sophisticated... Sadock does it all. Her apparel goes from course to trendy café in a blink. Fabrics are silky, soft, buttery hard. Different. Details include surprises like zip-off sleeves, sunglasses loops, asymmetrical cuts and stripes, washable leather welts on pockets, gem studs and arty patterns. Sadock’s pieces shout out, “I want to go out and play!” Jamiesadock.com
The Most Impressive Coffee Table Book “True Links” by Malcolm Campbell and George Peper is a handsome, large, heavy, full color book with magnificent photos and descriptions of 246 courses they say qualify as “true links.” Out of this number, only four meet the criteria in the U.S.: Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes and Old Macdonald in Oregon (all part of the Bandon Dunes group) and Highland Links, an inexpensive public track with a quaint lighthouse in Truro, Cape Cod. Campbell, a Scottish golf writer (who happens to
These Shoes were made for Walking When Fred Couples recently won the Constellation Energy Senior Players Championship at Westchester Country Club in Westchester, he was wearing ECCO’s hybrid Golf Street Premier shoes. Designed to be “street legal” off the course as well as on, the shoes have an engineered outsole with 100 molded traction bars with more than 800 traction angles delivering great grip for all conditions. They come in five delicious color combinations like licorice-coffee-fanta and moonless-black-chili red. (SRP $140) Sadly they don’t come in ladies’ styles. Bummer. eccousa.com
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These Belts Don’t Bite A great gift for the man in your life (or you) the genuine crocodile belt from Fairway & Greene priced at $150 is handmade from skins of superior farm-raised American Crocodiles with Italian-tanned lining and featherstitching. Color choices are black or brown. The buckle is solid brass in a polished silver finish and it comes in a suede box. What a way to hold up your pants. Fairwayandgreene.com
All that Glitters Frosted Gear, which creates private label crystal items for the high-end sports market has created a glittering cuff bracelet covered by Swarovski crystals. Worn by high performance athletes, celebrities and style-conscious fans, the company is owned by Vanessa Swarovski Piedra and her husband, Jorge Piedra, a former all star baseball player; the crystal accessories are made in Austria. The bracelet on a flexible ultra suede band fastened with a crystalized snap is available in several colors ($250). Frostedgear.com
All the Best Golfers Dig the Spider Look In case you didn’t know it, PGA star Camilo Villegas is a fanatic biker, which might help account for his fantastic shape, a perfect model for J. Lindeberg’s latest collection. Catch the fit as Villegas “spiders” up his putt. He’s wearing J. Lindeberg of course, an elegant fitted eclectic look with artistic twists on traditional forms like a shirt patterned with large khaki and black diamonds smeared like ink blots on the edges. Trousers are worn long and slim, shirts are tapered and craftsmanship is key. Jlindeberg.com
Katharine Dyson is an award-winning freelance travel, lifestyle, golf and guidebook author. Based in the northeast, she covers the world with a focus on romantic travel, golf and other sports, spas, and the outdoors. Katharine contributes to a wide range of magazines, newspapers, websites and guidebooks. She writes a number of monthly columns and publishes two websites: golftravelwire.com and FingerLakesInfo.com.
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Country Club Way, Ipswich, MA
Long Ridge Lane, Ipswich, MA
Grand and gracious custom 4 Bedrooms 4 Baths 2 Half Baths 6490 Sq Ft Executive Residence sited on a corner lot with beautiful landscaping, overlooking the 13th fairway. Many unique features including oversized rooms, white birch and huge stainless kitchen, 2 en suite bedrooms on second, high ceilings, two elegant Grand Alle's, delightful screened in Gazebo and 3 car garage. Priced below assessment! $1,140,000
What a picturesque setting overlooking the 15th fairway for this 4 bedroom custom home, located on a desirable cul de sac! Recently updated cherry kitchen with honed granite, a cathedral ceiling great room, a distinguished white raised paneled office and a game room with fireplace, both on walk-out lower level.A bath with shower is on this level-ideal inlaw suite or teenage retreat. Additionally there is a small office on the main level. $799,000
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 10 S Main St, Topsfield, MA Office Phone: (978) 887-6536 Email: Gwen.Washburn@NEMoves.com
Long Ridge Lane, Ipswich, MA Many distinctive features highlight this sophisticated expanded Pinehurst with 1st floor master overlooking the 13th fairway, including a wine cellar, custom bar with cedar and Mexican tiles, screened porch, 3 fireplaces (two gas, one wood burning), 3 car heated garage, 1000 square feet of additional finished space over 3 car garage, and 10' hot tub in garden area. Pristine move-in condition with new carpeting. $995,000
GWEN WASHBURN Sales Associate
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Home on the Course
by Larry Gavrich
Golf communities that will float your boat
In the something-for-everyone era of golf community development in the 1980s and ‘90s, developers loaded on the amenities. If a prospect didn’t play golf, then tennis, an Olympic-sized pool, a state of the art fitness center and even nature trails would be lure enough. And if the developer was fortunate enough to have acquired a couple of thousand acres adjoining a deep body of water, better yet. Everyone loves to look at water, even if they hate the thought of their golf balls landing in it. It also is not hard to buy the argument that a home in a community on a lake, river or ocean is more likely to maintain its value over time. If you play golf and also have a little of the ship captain in you, the following are just a few examples of golf communities that also could very well float your boat – literally and figuratively. The Reserve on Lake Keowee, Sunset, SC -- In the 1970s, Duke Energy opened the floodgates on Keowee Dam, creating the means for hydroelectric power and thousands of miles of new shoreline, a boon for residential community development in upstate South Carolina. The 200 slips at The Reserve’s marina are available to residents, but the full-purpose facility also rents kayaks and canoes for those whose interest is more occasional. The Jack Nicklaus Signature course is highly rated and makes good use of the adjacent lake. Home sites start in the $100s, with homes from $500s. The Point, Lake Norman, NC –- With 18 miles of shoreline bordering the 1,200-acre gated community, many homes and home sites feature their own boat slips; most of the rest at least have views of the water. The Greg Norman designed course at the heart of the community
features water views from 13 of its 18 holes. At just a half-hour from Charlotte, homes begin in the $600s. Grande Dunes, Myrtle Beach, SC –- The Intracoastal Waterway runs from Maine to Florida, mostly threading through islands along the coast. But in Myrtle Beach, the waterway is a mile from the ocean, and Grande Dunes’ full-service marina is wide and deep enough to accommodate boats up to 120-feet long. Featuring an 18-hole Nick Price designed “Members” course –- one of the few private clubs in the 90-mile stretch of Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand –- and an even better semi-private course by Roger Rulewich. A two-bedroom Marina Inn villa is currently listed at $169,900. Queen’s Harbour Yacht & Country Club, Jacksonville, FL -- The boats that line the canal along the finishing holes of the Mark McCumber course seem close enough to touch, and if your friends own one of the yachts, you might be lucky enough to be invited aboard for an after-round libation. With easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and dozens of other courses run by Club Corp., membership can take you a long way. Homes begin in the high $200s. Black Pearl Marina, Jupiter, FL -- For those who prefer their boating close but not too close to their golf, many independent marinas are just a short distance from excellent golf communities. One example: Black Pearl Marina is less than two minutes from the famed Jupiter Hills Country Club community, home to two golf courses by the brothers Fazio, Tom and George. Add just a few more minutes to the reasonably priced Tequesta Country Club, home to senior pro tour players Olin Browne and Russ Cochran.
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Big Price Drop!
SO. TIVERTON: Owners are Relocating. Great opportunity, great new price! Built in 2007. Energy Star home. Every amenity! 4 BR’s, 4 ½ baths. 4200 sf of living area. 3 car garage. Master suite on the first level. 2 fireplaces. C-Vac. C-Air. Hydro air heating. Newer neighborhood with easy access to Rte 24. $690,375. Chee 401-835-5021.
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White Cliffs Country Club
LIVE. PLAY. RELAX. Escape. Oceanfront, gated 18-hole golf commmunity. Beach, golf, tennis, gym, restaurant, pro shop. 2 BR 1.5 bath condo's from $150K. SO. TIVERTON: NANAQUAKET. Quality 3,260 sf home on 1 acre with beautiful in-ground pool. 3 BR’s, 2 ½ baths. Tastefully remodeled in 2005. Beautiful custom kitchen with granite counters, built -ins, island bar, top of the line cabinetry. C-Air. Lots of storage, 2 car garage. Superb area. Just reduced to $595,000. Lisa 401-418-2525.
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SO. TIVERTON: NANAQUAKET. Private beach. Classic 10 room Cape w/ 3500 sf of living area. 4BR’s, 3 ½ baths. 2 Fireplaces. C-air. 2 car garage. Attractive in-law addition. 1 peaceful acre of land. Brick patio w/ wonderful large Florida room to enjoy the seasons. Deeded water access & private beach area on the Sakonnet River. $598,000. Chee 401835-5021.
(401) 683-6200 (401) 625-1188 (800) 683-6240
EastShoreProperties.com 3030 East Main Rd. Portsmouth, RI
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Simpson wins Deutsche Bank Championship in Playoff
by Emily Kay
Boston sports fans love their playoffs and Labor Day’s Deutsche Bank Championship did not disappoint. With birdies on his final three holes Monday, Webb Simpson came from behind to defeat Chez Reavie on the second extra frame of a sudden-death playoff at TPC Boston. Simpson, who notched his second PGA Tour victory in three weeks, drained a 30-foot birdie putt on the par-5 18th to finish with a 6-under 65. Despite his dramatic 72nd hole, it appeared Simpson would have to settle for second place, until Reavie’s third shot to the same green flew into the long rough and he made a bogey, tying Simpson at 15-under 269. The two replayed the 18th and each birdied it, Simpson canning a 15-footer. It was back to the par4 17th, where Simpson dropped a 10-foot birdie putt and ended Reavie’s improbable run. “I [felt] like next time I was in contention it [would] be a lot easier than [winning the Wyndham Championship],” said Simpson, who moved to the top of the FedEx Cup points list. “It was just as hard.” Simpson’s win guaranteed he would one be of the top-five contenders at the Tour Championship later this month and ensured him a spot on the U.S. Presidents Cup team in November. Reavie, for his part, was not unhappy with his runner-up status after a nearly flawless day. Following birdies on two of the most difficult holes -- 11 and 14 -- that one blemish, however, was his undoing. With Simpson in the clubhouse and the wind gusting, Reavie did not second-guess his decision to lay up on 18. He would, though, use a different club for his approach. “If I had to do it all over again,” Reavie said about his final wedge shot in regulation, “I would have hit a lob wedge instead of a sand wedge.” Still, Reavie, who began the 2011 season with a medical exemption after knee surgery and is ineligible for full tour status until next year, played his way into the Tour Championship. He also won spots in three majors in 2012, including the Masters.
It was a crazy finale for others, including 54-hole leader Bubba Watson. Starting the day with a onestroke lead, Watson birdied No. 2, but it was all downhill from there until he chipped in for eagle on 18 and a final-round 74. “I didn’t have my best stuff today,” said Watson, who shared 16th place. “I birdied the second hole but I just didn’t have anything after that.” Finishing his first week with a belly putter after barely making the cut, Phil Mickelson closed in 10th place. Lefty said he would stick with the tall putter. “Throughout the whole week from six feet on in, I felt very good with it,” said Mickelson. “I think I'm going to practice with it a little bit more from the 10to 25-foot area where I need to make some of those....and see if I can get a better feel, a better touch with it.” Nick Watney understandably passed on post-tourney comments after posting an 80 that included an 11 at the par-5 second. The cousin of everybody’s favorite Red Sox reporter, Heidi Watney, chipped his third shot from over the green into the hazard. His fourth shot hit a rock and remained in the hazard, after which he angrily smashed the ground with his club. Watney took a penalty shot drop in the fairway, found the green, and three-putted. Officials later penalized him two shots for smacking his club inside the hazard while his ball was still in it. Ernie Els, who almost missed the playoffs, shot a final-round 70 and tied for 16th. He was also 68th among the 70 players who advanced to the next stage of the playoffs. The third playoff, the BMW Championship, will be in two weeks at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club outside Chicago. Emily Kay is a regular contributor to New England Golf Monthly. Check her out on the Waggle Room, Boston Golf Examiner, National Golf Examiner, and GottaGoGolf websites. You may also follow Kay on Twitter @golfexaminer.
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Good Looks on the Course
by Elle Brec
THE FASHION LEADERBOARD
The Deutsche Bank Championship in Norton, MA is a tremendous event and 2011 was a huge success. Over the past seven years, it has raised over $20 million dollars for charity, donating to the Tiger Woods Learning Center and numerous local New England charities. While the tournament has many positive impacts on the New England economy, it could potentially have a negative affect on the environment. Even though is difficult due to the multitude of variables, The Deutsche Bank felt it was important to calculate a comprehensive greenhouse gas emission to measure the carbon footprint of the tournament. By teaming with experts from a company known as First Climate, they approximated 2.15 tons. This includes the emissions from the transportation and lodging for players, caddies, staff, guests, vendors, media, plus the energy used on-site, as well as the emissions from the printed materials and waste. The socially and environmentally responsible Deutsche Bank purchased Certified Emissions Reductions, certified by the United Nations, which are investments in the installation of new state-of-the-art furnaces and power generators. This energy efficient technology will allow mills to generate more electricity than required on-site so that the surplus power can be fed into the regional grid. The project replaces grid electricity produced conventionally from fossil fuels with clean energy generated from renewable biomass. The savings in greenhouse gas emissions will amount to more than 10,000 tons of carbon per year. From financial companies to fashion companies, everyone seems to be doing their part to be green. We all want to look like the pros; these are the top ten best dressed from the TPC Boston greens.
Webb Simpson with his purple Polo shirt, finished off an amazing comeback with three birdies, the final one on the second extra playoff hole, to win the Deutsche Bank Championship on Monday for his second title in three weeks. No1 in the standings is filled with perks, beyond assured of being among the top five when the FedEx Cup concludes at the Tour Championship at the end of the month, Simpson locked up a spot on the Presidents Cup team in Australia, and moves to No 14 in the world. "I told somebody early this week that I feel like next time I was in contention, it'll be a lot easier than Greensboro," Simpson said. "And it wasn't that way at all. It was just as hard. The shots and the putts were just as hard. It was like I had never won a golf tournament before."
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Adam Scott certainly has
a warm spot in his heart for the Deutsche Bank Championship. His first PGA Tour victory came here in 2003, he tied for second a year later, and tied for fifth last year. In six previous trips to TPC Boston, he has never missed the cut. Make it
seven made cuts now. Scott, who won on the TPC Boston eight years ago for his first PGA Tour victory, played the 18th to perfection for an eagle, then kept moving up the leaderboard with enough birdies, the low round of the tournament. Finishing 10 under par, ranking No. 23 in the standings. A native of the Green Mountain State, Keegan Bradley pictured here with the Green Monsta as the background, threw out the first pitch at the Red Sox vs. Yankees game on Tuesday, still makes the fashion leaderboard cut with home field advantage. As Keegan Bradley’s first appearance in the Deutsche Bank Championship, the 25-year-old rookie felt the fierce competition from the best players in the world. Last month he excitingly won the PGA Championship becoming only the third player in over 100 years to win a major on his first try. Bradley has plenty of history at TPC Boston, when he was a student at Hopkinton High, he vividly remembers playing a match there in the fall of his senior year. Bradley also attended the Deutsche Bank in its formative years, and was thrilled at seeing Tiger Woods hit a shot in person. Many of his friends and family were in attendance to watch him this year, including his aunt LPGA Hall of Famer Pat Bradley, who lives in Hyannis.
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Rickie Fowler donning all white throughout the tournament, allowing for his neon orange belt, shoes and cap, though, reflected his Oklahoma State ties or in lime green, both making a huge splash. The majority of Rickie’s fans waiting for him to walk off the course were younger than the 22-year-old PGA TOUR pro, and many of them were wearing his distinctive Puma flat-brimmed cap, predominantly or-
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ange. "Up in the Northeast the fans love sporting events," Fowler was telling the media. "It’s fun to play up here. It’s nice to have a good following here." Fowler got off to a red-hot start, making four birdies on his front nine. He acknowledged he, "played well but struggled getting the ball in the fairways the last ten holes.” Fowler has two top-fives in his last five but the young phenom is still in search of his first PGA TOUR win, he consistently impresses with his Puma style.
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Matt Kuchar, originally
from Florida but a lifelong Red Sox fan, has made a tradition of showing his support for his favorite team by rocking the B whenever he plays locally. If you hadn’t already noticed, Red Sox fans automatically make it past the cut on this leaderboard. Kuchar began the playoffs at No 12, the highest seed of any player who failed to win this year -- and was runner-up to Dustin Johnson at The Barclays, which moved him to No 2 in the FedExCup standings. He finished in the top 25 for the Deutsche Bank Championship at under 6.
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Defending Champ
Charlie Hoffmann, who
is making his second appearance on the fashion leaderboard, wears green each Thursday for awareness for the environment. While it is well known Charley is sponsored by Waste Management, not everyone is aware how passionate he is about the environment. His Green Glove Charity benefits Keep America Beautiful projects nationwide. He affiliated with Waste Management because they collect and process waste in an environmentally safe and beneficial manner through recycling, waste-to-energy, landfill and landfill-gas-to-energy operations. Each year, the company recycles more than 6 million tons of waste material, saving enough energy to power almost a mil-
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lion homes. Waste Management also produces about 500 megawatts of green renewable energy per year, enough to power about 500,000 homes or replace about seven million barrels of oil per year.
Nick Watney came
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into the week ranked third in the FedEx Cup and remained competitive throughout the each round until he quickly fell down the leaderboard after a disastrous 11 at the second. Watney finished in a tie for 61st place and fell from third to seventh in the FedEx Cup standings. The normally outgoing Watney was visibly frustrated at the end of the round as he and his caddie moved through the gallery outside of the official scoring area and did not talk. He was however, dressed extremely sharp, which is why he still makes the cut on the fashion leaderboard. Fan favorite Phil Mickelson, threw out the first pitch at the Red Sox game on Thursday, which I was lucky enough to witness first hand, makes the cut on the fashion leaderboard with his support for the Jimmy Fund. Phil hasn't had his best season on tour, but the four-time major champion is consistently one of the best dressed players. "Lefty" T2 at the British Open Championship was his most impressive performance of 2011. add everything up and Mickelson has five Top 10s and nine Top 25s in 17 events played. That's a pretty good year for most players however, it is just an okay year for the No. 6 player in the world.
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Chez Reavie sporting
the new line TaylorMade/Adidas, makes the cut as it is one of my favorite new styles. Chez became the first player in Playoffs history to move from outside the top 70 into the top 10 at the Deutsche Bank Championship. With his playoff runner-up finish, Reavie jumped 76 spots from No. 87 to No. 9 in the latest standings. Reavie could take solace in a guaranteed slot in the FedEx Cup finale — a huge accomplishment for someone who began 2011 on a medical exemption and briefly lost his card before the FedEx postseason began.
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The South Korean native Ye Yang looked fantastic each of the four days of the tournament. With white pants, an orange shirt, and orange accessories including his belt, sunglasses, and cleats, he was perfectly color coordinated. Another day with white pants and an aqua shirt, beautiful colors to mark the end of summer. "I’m finally tweaking the right things, I think," Yang said through an interpreter. "It’s been a year and a season of adjustments, and today, I experimented by not swinging my right arm too far back in my backswing, actually keeping my armpit closed a lot more than usual, and I think that helped my control overall in my driver and my second shots. That confidence couldn’t come at a better time, too. Yang picked up his fifth top-10 of the season at The Barclays last week when he closed with a 63, tied for sixth and moved to 26th in the FedExCup standings.
Elle Brec is a golf fashion writer for New England Golf Monthly with a passion for styles, trends, fabrics, colors, and accessories that create good looks on and off the course. Elle pilots the golf lifestyle with involvement in PGA Merchandise Shows, PGA Tournaments including the Deutsche Bank, National Golf Expos, Francis Ouimet Scholarship banquets, Charity Golf Tournaments such as the CVS Caremark Charity Classic as well as tournaments that benefit the Jimmy Fund and Best Buddies.
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Arnie by Quagmire
Not long ago Quagmire Golf founders Geoff Tait and Bobby Pasternak were just a couple of guys with an idea for trendier clothes on the golf course. If you haven’t already heard, this spring the Toronto businessmen entered into a multi-year partnership with, ‘The King.’ Arnold Palmer is arguably the greatest ambassador and the biggest icon the game has ever known. Quagmire founders have seized a great opportunity to team with him to create a retro line of clothing known as “Arnie.” Pretty surreal. Tait and Pasternak plan to roll out this new Arnie brand as a throwback to pay tribute to the three eras of Arnie’s reign in the game of golf. Retail distribution plans call for three distinct deliveries of Arnie. The
18 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
brand will officially launch spring 2012 with a line showcasing retro Palmer apparel from the 1950s. Two months later the 1960s products will hit retail shelves before closing with an early fall unveiling of vintage 1970s Palmer apparel. Upgrades to the products include modern fabrication technology to infuse performance and wearability. Nothing Arnie does is taken lightly; at 81 years of age he still holds more clout than anyone in the game. It is a big deal he has decided to outsource the creative control for his namesake clothing line; it is both a huge honor and heavy burden for Tait and Pasternak. We are sure they will step up to the tee and achieve a hole in one.
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ECCO
Spring 2012 Ecco will debut their new Biom Hybrid Street shoes for men. These game changers will hit stores in December and will be available in four different color combinations. Women have to wait a couple months longer the Hybrids, but will be well worth it as Ecco has elevated the style of its street golf shoes with cool details such as wingtips. The shoes were among golf’s big product introductions at the PGA Fall Expo in Las Vegas. The Danish footwear built the shoe’s anatomical sole based on scans of more than 2,500 feet and their outsole has 100 TPU traction bars for stability. The shoe mixes the savvy of the most popular style in golf these days with the same advanced ergonomic design. The suggested retail is $190 due to the quality of the butter soft Yak leather; the same used Biom shoe introduced
earlier this year. Many enjoy the Golf Street shoe this will be the best of both worlds. New products are more successful when the pros recognize the quality and use them. For example, when Fred Couples decided, without prompting from ECCO, to start wearing the Golf Street of the blue in January 2010, ECCO orders were already in place for the coming season. North American retailers were subsequently caught short when demand went through the roof from all those who wanted to be just like Freddie. So, if you see Fred wearing the BIOM Hybrid this coming January, cross your fingers that your green grass shop or big box retailer of choice has enough stock on hand to meet demand, because there will be lots of it.
Kikkor
One of the most noticeable changes in golf apparel is the shoe. Vancouver based company Kikkor has introduced a new brand of golf shoes. Their entire line of shoe look like sneakers one would wear skateboarding or running. With the most important feature of a shoe being comfort, many golfers have proudly report they are extremely comfortable. If all golf sneakers are made this comfortable, other golf shoes are in trouble.
25-year-old professional golfer, James Lepp, started Kikkor. James grew up in Abbotsford, British Columbia where he started golfing at the age of 4 years old. He enjoyed much success both as an amateur player and professional, but in 2008 his passion for golf was slowly replaced for his passion as an entrepreneur. With the help of some friends and business consultants, the brand was officially launched in April of 2010. It doesn’t matter what age you are, 10, 25, or 45, nobody truly wants to have to wear dress shoes on the golf course. The golf shoe industry consistently designs shoes that are targeted only for the older demographic, leaving players with personal style very few options that match. There was a huge need for a new style of really comfortable golf shoes. Kikkor is an alternative golf footwear brand targeting the younger players at heart. The shoes are built with comfort and style first in mind, without ignoring the important technical attributes, such as grip, stability, waterproofing, and durability.
New England Golf Monthly | September 2011 | 19
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Women’s Golf
by Trish Joyce
EWGA Autumn Golf for Fun and Charity
Swimming pools may be closed, kids are back in school, and soon many will be replacing gripping golf clubs for rakes and shovels. Until then, the women of EWGA continue to golf in New England; enjoying league final events (Boston Chapter), a weekend in Vermont golf trip (Central CT Chapter), and competing in the EWGA Championship semi-final event for a win that will take them to the finals in Palm Desert, Calif. in October. Along with the fun and head-to-head play, EWGA is giving back. The Greater Springfield Chapter is having their “Fall Ball Event” for Rally for the Cure on September 18 at The Ranch Golf Course in Southwick, MA. The scramble event welcomes EWGA member and non-members alike for a 1:00 p.m. shotgun start followed by dinner and cash bar. $20 of each registration fee goes to Rally for the Cure. October 23rd, the day following the 2011 EWGA Championship Finals in Palm Desert, CA, the EWGA Foundation is holding its 9th annual Charity Golf Tournament to benefit LPGA-USGA Girls Golf. Everyone is welcome to play at the beautiful Indian Wells Golf Resort, home to Golf Channel’s Big Break Season 15, to extend your golf season while supporting a great cause. Follow the links below for additional details, registration information and more. To learn more about EWGA’s New England Chapters, visit www.ewga.com and click on “locations” on the top tool bar. Event Registration Form Corporate Team / Tournament Sponsor Form Event Sponsorship Information
20 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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Couple of Travelers by Alice and Danny Scott
Lovin’ Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky is a must see on the route to rediscovering America. Great golf casino resorts on the border pave the way. First stop is Belterra Casino Resort where the pool and spa dole out tranquility like the casino deals cards. Ruby’s steak house serves prime flavorful cuts and a crème brulee that transports you to France. The Tom Fazio designed golf course is parkland style, winding through the hills and valley of the Ohio River. On the shore, down the road, the Ridge Winery with a picturesque tasting deck is a soothing 19thhole substitute. If you prefer to rev it up, check out the Kentucky Speedway schedule. Second stop is Horseshoe Casino, famed for the World Poker Series. The all you can eat buffet, carries the name of Paula Dean, queen of fat cuisine. Chariot Run is their affiliated golf course, displaying a brilliance of fall colors only expected in the northeast. In spite of a four month drought, fairways and greens showed no signs of thirst. Take your winnings and play here. Just 40 minutes away, off Highway 65, open the door to the 21C Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville and you won’t believe your eyes. Not your ordinary lodging, not your ordinary museum; eclectic art at every turn incorporates all mediums. The digital artistry is surprising and fun, like the reception floor’s couple sleeping in bed in such a way that you can walk on them but so real, you try not to. Push the button for the elevator and notice yourself in larger than life
22 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
video on the wall as letters sprinkle down to line your body with different words. Move and they bounce off to settle again when you settle, carrying another message. Oops, missed the elevator for the distraction, but that’s ok, no reason to rush here. Even the men’s room is a must see for both genders. The urinal is a long wall of cascading waterfalls and unbeknownst to the eliminator, it is posed in front of a 2 way mirror so that people outside can be seen but they can’t see in to the men’s room. Men might not know that and so fun ensues with gestures and giggles from the outside in. The bar and restaurant, Proof is a happening place, filled with after work business people, politicos and travelers. The menu is as creative as the surrounding art, mixing a media of local foods. It’s no wonder that Conde Nast rated 21C the number one hotel in the U.S. and number six in the world. A block away is the Louisville Slugger plant, museum and home to Bionic Gloves headquarters. A few blocks in the other direction, the visitors’ center delivers expert advice on tours and sites. Pick up a passport for the Urban Bourbon Trail, encompassing historic architecture, the likes of The Brown Hotel and The Old Seelbach Bar as well as the modern 4th Street Live Entertainment Complex. Evident at all turns is the Louisville passion for preserving, rebuilding, and growing. “Just Add Bourbon” is the mantra of Louisville as the burgeoning industry boosts their economy.
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Kentucky produces 95% of America’s bourbon, which must be at least 51% corn and Jim Beam produces 50% of that. Visit the distilleries to acquire the taste and history of Kentucky bourbon. Maker’s Mark’s tour is very comprehensive, from the original kitchen where the 1953 formula was developed to the tasting and gift shop where you can dip your own bottle in the melted red plastic to make your own mark. Oh yes, and there is more great golf too. The Heritage Hill Golf Club was named number one public course in Kentucky for 2010 by Golfweek. Fuzzy Zoeller’s home course, Covered Bridge and his newest
course, Champions Point are also minutes away from downtown with an Indiana address. The closest in Louisville, is Quail Chase with 27 holes designed by David Pfaff. All are beauties for any golfer to enjoy. If you want the experience of the Ryder Cup course, the famous Valhalla, you must know someone as it is private. The prestige is apparently worth the membership. If we had a mulligan for this trip, we would stay downtown in Louisville longer to explore Church Hill Downs, don the hats, sip a mint julep and fancy the Kentucky Derby. We would see the Mohammed Ali Museum and play more golf. Been there, got the t-shirt but gotta go again!
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Ross’ Rulings
by Jack Ross
When is Your Ball Unplayable? Whenever You Decide
The unplayable ball rule (Rule 28) is probably one of the least understood rules among casual golfers. Knowing this rule can provide you with strategic options when you encounter difficulties. Mike and Jim are playing a match. Jim has putted out for a bogey on a par 4 hole. Mike has a birdie putt from above the hole on a severely sloping, doubletiered green. His putt slides by the cup, picks up speed, rolls onto the lower tier of the green and then proceeds to roll off the green into a cavernous bunker. Mike figures he’d be lucky to get out of the bunker, much less make bogey. Jim figures he’s won the hole. He’s shocked by what happens next. “I’m declaring my ball unplayable,” says Mike. He lifts the ball from the bunker, places it at the spot from where he putted, holes the putt, and, with the one-stroke penalty imposed by Rule 28, takes a bogey, halving the hole. Jim is incredulous. “You can’t do that! You had to play the ball from the bunker!” Who is correct? Mike properly invoked the unplayable ball rule. The decision as to whether a ball is unplayable is completely within the discretion of the player. It does not have to be in a hole, next to a rock or tree root, or in some other spot where playing is shot is impossible or impracticable. In short, unplayability is in the eye of the beholder. (The one exception is if the ball lies in a water hazard. In that case, player must apply the water hazard rules.)
24 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
Once a ball is declared unplayable, there are three options: (1) Play a ball as nearly as possible from where the ball was last played. (2) Drop a ball behind the spot where the ball lay anywhere along an imaginary line demarcated by that point and the hole. There is no limit how far back the ball may be dropped. (3) Drop a ball within two club lengths of the spot where the ball lay (no nearer the hole). If your ball is in a bunker, a restriction applies to options (2) and (3). The ball must be dropped in the bunker. However, option (2) might make sense if your ball is hopelessly plugged in the face of a bunker. It might make sense to take the stroke penalty and drop the ball at the rear of the bunker rather than to rack up multiple strokes flailing away at the embedded ball. Or, if you’re in a sinister pot bunker and see no realistic way of escaping, option (1) might make sense. You might be better off replaying the shot, even with the penalty stroke. In short, the unplayable ball rule lets you choose your battles. Jack Ross completed an intensive PGA/USGA rules workshop and has officiated at state amateur competitions. Rules inquiries may be directed to rossgolf@charter.net.
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Molori Unplugged by John Molori
Golf a constant in Halloran’s dynamic life WCVB Channel 5 sports anchor Bob Halloran is a modern day Renaissance man. He answers to the titles television star, radio personality, author, and of course, golfer. Halloran’s most cherished title, however, is dad. He and wife Eileen Curran, a news reporter at NECN, have a 10 year-old daughter, Grace. Halloran also has three sons, Sean, 21, Dan, 17 and Liam, 13. Fittingly, the 48 year-old Halloran’s love of golf stemmed from his own father. He relates, “My Dad was a member at Beacon Hill Country Club in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, and I started caddying for him when I was about 12. I liked the game, and my Dad showed me the three grips, and told me to keep my head down. That's the only lesson I ever had until last year.” Halloran made the golf team at Washington and Lee University in Virginia, but never played in any matches. His golf game blossomed along with his media career. “It wasn't until I got to Channel 5 nine years ago and started playing in a lot of charity tournaments that I got back into it,” says Halloran, whose TV career has taken him to Cape 11, WCVX, WPRI, ESPN and Fox25. “I joined Granite Links two years ago, and hit three or four times a week. I'm down to an 8.2 handicap index. I tend to shoot 85-87, but I get hot every so often. I'm now teaching my three youngest kids. My daughter Grace has a beautiful swing, and seems to like it the most.” Granite Links is a favorite of Halloran’s for another reason. “I shot a 76 there last year with three 3-putts,” he relates. “Fairways and greens all day, it was one of those rounds that make you think you've got it all figured out, and then you go out and shoot 88 the next time.” The Emmy and AP Award-winning Halloran has penned four books including “Irish Thunder: The Hard Life and Times of Micky Ward.” He served as a technical consultant for the film “The Fighter.” Along the way, he has played some of New England’s nicest courses, each with its own unique qualities. “In college, I played Bass River and Blue Rock a lot,” says
Halloran who wrote and narrated a DVD focusing on Cape Cod golf spots. “I've played a bunch of different places on the Cape including Highland Links, which is a fun loop with a nostalgic feel. With charity tournaments, I've had a chance to play Ferncroft, Ipswich, International, Lake Winnipesaukee, Brae Burn and others.” Like any golf lover, Halloran has his own tastes. “I like every course with good greens, soft and fast,” he states. “I hit a high ball, but I don't get the backspin on it, so I like it when I can land the ball softly and it sits. Nice fairways, scenic views and changes in elevation are all nice.” Halloran’s game is a mish-mash of some of his favorite pros. He relates, “I think about Tom Watson when I swing. His body type and mine are similar, and his rhythm is so perfect. I've got a little Jim Furyk thing going on at the top of my swing, and I think Phil Mickelson’s got the right perspective. He competes really hard, wants to win badly, but win or lose, he smiles and returns to his beautiful family.” While Halloran has not employed golf to “make friends” with athletes, he does use the game to improve the lives of others. “The charity connection has been wonderful. I played in a tournament for Hearth (elderly homelessness), and they invited me to serve on the board. I also host a lot of tournaments, and it's been an honor to help raise money for at least a dozen different causes.” Still, it is the game itself that keeps Halloran on the course. He states, “I like golf, and I like practicing. I've had a bunch of eagles holing out from the fairway, and the occasional putt on a par 5, but when I think of great shots, I think of the times I made the ball do what I wanted. I definitely attempt shots that are beyond my capabilities, and when they work out, it only encourages me to be stupid again the next time.” Syndicated columnist John Molori writes for numerous publications and appears regularly on AM 1110 WCCM. Email John at MoloriMedia@aol.com.
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Northern Exposure A golfing second home
by Dave Irons
Dreams of a vacation home grow from many desires. Some envision a home on the water, ocean side or lake front, maybe in the mountains. Others see a golf fairway stretching away from their deck, while skiers want to ski in and ski out. Northern New England offers all of the above and then some. And multiple benefits can accrue to those who select carefully. One argument against the purchase of a vacation home is limited seasonal use, but as more resorts expand to four season, that argument goes away. We started our search with Susan DuPlessis a broker for Sunday River Real Estate and asked about property on and around the resort's golf course. The original development, Mahoosuc Glen is now limited to resales but a new project, Village on the Green will have homes overlooking the 17th hole. A major benefit of owning in a four season resort is the opportunity to offset expenses by renting and we asked Susan about that. "Rental is becoming big business as more owners are renting. It's partly because it's a buyer's market, but often buyers look on this type of property as an investment." She went on to point out that these properties can include membership in other mountain properties such as pools, tennis courts and spas, which make rentals more attractive. And, of course, all such resorts operate rentals through their lodging. The typical resort has individual vacation homes, condos and hotel units. Sunday River's sister resort, Sugarloaf, has the same real estate opportunities. Over in New Hampshire the Mount Washington Valley has numerous condo developments at ski areas, Attitash, Bretton Woods, and Cranmore with a wide variety of vacation homes throughout the region and a selection of golf courses. On the other side of the White Mountains Owl's Nest partners with Waterville Valley where second
26 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
homes or condos can be rented to skiers in winter. Vermont has the most ski resorts and many choices for golfing out of second homes. The obvious ones are those with golf and skiing under the same company such as Stratton, Okemo, Killington, Sugarbush, Stowe and Jay Peak. In most cases, a vacation home at one of these ski resorts also makes golf at nearby courses available such as Killington with their own course and nearby Green Mountain National. The obvious place to start a search is the real estate division of the resort, but don't stop there. Check out the real estate brokers in the area where the golf course of your choice is located. Local chambers of commerce can supply a list of real estate companies in any community. At Sunday River, it's the town of Bethel. For Owl's Nest go to the towns of Plymouth and Campton. Sugarbush has the entire Mad River Valley and the towns of Warren, Waitsfield and Moretown, and nearby Waterbury with its own golf course is not far from either Sugarbush or Stowe. In addition to real estate at resorts, there are also plenty of places where homes on lakes are close to golf and skiing, especially in Maine. Point Sebago, on one of Maine's biggest lakes has a variety of vacation homes, and many of the newer models are set up for winter as well as summer, making them good choices for skiing golfers. Lakeside homes have another advantage in that they bring a premium in rental income. The next month is a great time to start the search. Golf in the three northern states is spectacular in foliage season which begins in late September along the Canadian border and gradually moves south peaking around Columbus day in the in a band that stretches from southern Vermont, through New Hampshire's Lakes region and on to the Western Maine Mountains around Sunday River. It's the perfect time to enjoy the golf and explore vacation home opportunities.
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He Said, She Said
by Jim Hammond and Pam Borgess
She Said If you haven’t played golf at Connecticut National, grab your sticks and GPS and head out to this off-the-beaten path scenic wonder, nestled in “The Quiet Corner” of Connecticut. Formally known as Putnam C.C., this Mark Mungeam redesign has created a new appearance and “feel”. You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a faraway land! Home to lots of wildlife, you’re likely to spot red-tail hawks and wild turkey. I’ve been told that in autumn gobbling sounds of wild turkeys echo throughout the countryside. Practice on their revamped driving range with target greens or putt on one of two putting greens overlooking the breathtaking countryside below, punctuated with the only home you’ll see while playing this course. The castle-like mansion in the distance adds to the mystical feel. Getting back to the golf…the mix of parkland and links-style holes offer variety, lots of visual appeal and memorability. Expect to get distracted by the astounding vistas like the 8th hole’s spectacular valley view, dramatic downhill fairway to a small green bordered by a pond on right, mounding and traps on left. From the forward tees, this player-friendly 18hole course features a manageable 5002-yards, and slope/rating of 69.2/119. The wide-open fairways have ample, visible yardage markers every 25 yards and signage for holes making it easy to navigate. The front nine’s dramatic elevation changes, sloping fairways and doglegs challenge your club selection. The rolling fairways, distinctive mounding, and water features on the back nine offer a more links feel. Shot accuracy is essential to score well, as an errant shot may land you on one of the many fescue-covered mounds bordering the fairways, or in the high fescue rough. Connecticut National has it all…great ambience, challenging yet fair layout, plush conditions, inviting clubhouse restaurant with mouthwatering menu selections and unbeatable SPECIAL RATES! www.ctnationalgolf.com
Connecticut National Golf Club He Said Connecticut National is a unique and challenging course that exemplifies the term “Target Golf.” Three years ago the owners of Connecticut National decided to create a course that is, in the words of golf director Jim West, “a links style course, but with a lot of trees.” This course is located in the northeastern corner of Connecticut and near the borders of both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Being over the age of 50, I would usually decide to play from the blue tees which are listed at 6,321 yards. But I have been crushing my drives lately so I teed it up from the back tees that plays at 6,935 yards. Connecticut National starts with a par 5 of 507 yards from the back tees. The fairway is guarded by bunkers and fescue waiting to snatch your drive so a 3 metal might be a good choice and play it as a 3 shot hole. The next hole is a 476 yard par 4 followed by a 227 yard par 3. If you still feel confident after that a par 5 playing at 604 yards is waiting for you on the sixth hole. The par 4 10th hole is all up hill with a bunker in the middle of the fairway, so place your tee shot carefully. The greens are fast and the ball rolls true so birdies can be made at this course. When I go back I think I will try the blues that play at 6, 321 and I would recommend that our readers play the tees that best fit their game and enjoy this beautiful golf course. The clubhouse is large and the lounge is designed with very soft lighting which results in a rather cozy environment. There is also a driving range available where you can warm up before you tee off. The green fees are very reasonable at $30.00 on weekdays and $ 42.00 on weekends.
For more information see the web site at:
www.ctnationalgolf.com New England Golf Monthly | September 2011 | 27
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Celebrity Golfer: Kevin Millar
by Leigh MacKay
It’s Millar time! We were a nation of “idiots” in the fall of 2004, and we couldn’t have been happier! Our commander-in-chief was Kevin Millar, outspoken and resolute first baseman. Together—Red Sox team, Millar, and fans—we were the sorcerers who finally dispelled the 86-year-old “Curse of the Bambino.”
A season of magic! A season of redemption! Raised in LA and after a baseball scholarship at Lamar University in Beaumont, TX, Millar played 12 years in the Major Leagues—1998-2009—with the Marlins, Sox, Orioles, and Blue Jays. His three years in Boston, 2003-05, were marked by both excellent offensive production (.276; .297; .272) and excellent rapport with the media. Millar said, “I loved Boston, I loved the fans, and I loved the excitement. Those were the three best years of my career.” When his career ended, Millar traded in his bat for a microphone and became a part of the media that he had always entertained as a player. He joined the newly formed MLB Network, first as a game analyst and now as the co-host with Chris Rose on the popular “Intentional Talk” weekdays from 5-6 pm. Millar also traded in the competition on the diamond for the competition on the golf course, and he has become a self-proclaimed “golf groupie.” His home is now in Austin, TX, where he lives with Jeana, his wife of 11 years, and their alliteratively named three sons and baby daughter—twins Kylie and
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Kashten, six; Kanyon, four; and Karis. Cowboy up! NEGM: A golf groupie? KM: Yes! Golf is my new passion. I enjoy the game as much as facing Roger Clemens in Yankee Stadium! I used to play with my dad when I was 13 or so and have always loved golf. I just never had much time to play during my career. Now I have joined the University of Texas Golf Club in Austin and play in celebrity and charity events whenever I can. I always play in the annual Children’s Miracle Network tournament. I’ve never had a lesson, but I’ve got my handicap down to eight. NEGM: Who would be your Dream Foursome? KM: Charles Barkley, Rickie Fowler, and Tiger Woods. NEGM: Who is the most memorable person from your life in baseball? KM: My uncle, Wayne Nordhagen, who played in the Majors from 1976-1983, mainly for the White Sox. I looked up to him big time, and I wanted to be just like him. NEGM: Do you still keep in touch with any former Red Sox teammates? KM: Yes, but mainly through text messaging. I don’t get to see guys like David Ortiz, Jason Varitek, and Tim Wakefield nearly enough. NEGM: Explain the transition from player to analyst and now to talk show host. KM: Difficult but very rewarding. The MLB Network
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has given me a great opportunity because baseball is really the only thing that I know. I’ve had to learn on the spot. The toughest part—and the best part—has been conducting interviews, but I’ve become pretty good at it. Luckily, I understood how to respond to the media during my playing days. Now I’m on the other side of the fence, but I’m still in the game! NEGM: Share a couple of the more interesting moments you’ve had on “Intentional Talk.” KM: Nothing is sacred! Everyone and everything are our subjects. Lots of fun. I had 6’ 5” Florida Marlins slugger Mike Stanton singing like Rihanna at one point in our interview. Priceless. I also caught a shirtless Terry Francona on our “ballpark cam” after a game in Yankee stadium doing sit-ups by the dugout. Chris and I keep ourselves amused and hope we are doing the same for our audience. NEGM: Explain your famous quote, “Cowboy up!” in 2003. KM: I made it in response to some of the Sox writers’ and the public’s pessimism about the team’s performance, based upon the club’s past history. I’m an optimistic guy by nature. So, the “Cowboy up!” was basically
saying to everyone that we all needed to get back on our horses and into the present and do our jobs. The team did, although we lost that heart-breaking seventh game to the Yankees in the ALCS. NEGM: New England fans will never forget their champion “idiots” of 2004. How did that one come about? KM: Johnny Damon actually said, “We’re all idiots,” because nothing could break the indomitable team strength of mind we had that year. We just refused to give up or believe that we couldn’t win it all. He was right: we were a team of “idiots,” and we did win it all. NEGM: What memories will you take to the grave about that World Series? KM: What I’ll remember most is how we—with so many widely divergent personalities—developed into a real family, with just incredible chemistry. I’ll remember the camaraderie in the dugout, the intensity on the field, and the never-say-die spirit. I’ll remember the four straight from the Yankees and the four straight from the Cardinals. I’ll remember how we changed the soul of Red Sox Nation and of Boston forever.
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Middle Market Open Unites Chicago’s Deal Making Community by NEGM Staff
Event Chair Scott Lang & Wife Devon
Ricky Barnes Gives A Few Sand Tips
The 7th annual Middle Market Open raises over $240,000 to directly support important, lifesaving programs for those suffering from kidney disease. In Mid West style the Middle Market Open once again brought the Middle Market Business Community together at their annual golf tournament at Olympia Fields Country Club to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. The event in its 7th year brings together the leading middle market private equity firms senior and junior capital providers, investment bankers, attorneys, accountants, consultants and portfolio company managers to participate in the only event that hosts the middle market financial communities. The 2011 event drew 228 players to historical Olympia Fields Country Club site of U.S. Opens, PGA Championships as well as Western
Opens and many U.S. Amateur events. The 2011 Middle Market Open™ charity golf tournament raised $243,782 to benefit research to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and to increase the availability of all organs for transplantation. For the past seven years, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois has assembled leading middle market private equity firms, senior and junior capital providers, investment bankers, attorneys, accountants, consultants and portfolio company managers to participate in the only event that hosts the middle market finan-
30 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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cial communities. “Since its inception in 2005, the MMO has contributed about $1.5 million toward this lifesaving and tax-saving cause,” said Scott Lang, Chairman of the Middle Market Open™. “Not only is this one of the most successful amateur golf tournaments in the Chicago land area, I’m proud to say it is considered a summer highlight of the Middle Market deal-making community and attracts a fantastic crowd.” The event combined championship level golf, outstanding prizes, silent auction items, and an opportunity to meet PGA Tour player, Ricky Barnes, who provided a short game clinic and Q&A session. From purchasing mulligans to bidding on the silent auction, the tournament participants helped to support research into kidney disease and the nation’s only KidneyMobile that provides free screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, education and physician referrals for individuals in medically underserved areas of Illinois. “It was MSC’s first year in the tournament and it was very rewarding to participate in such a worthy cause,” said Charles Botchway, CEO of Madison Street Capital, an international investment bank headquartered in Chicago. “It was nearly sold out; played on a world-class course. We’re already looking forward to being a sponsor of the 2012 Middle Market Open.” “We were really excited to hold the event again at Olympia Fields,” said Andrew Weil, Partner at law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP and Middle Market Open™ Committee Member. Contributions directly support important, lifesaving programs of the NKFI. Millions of people are affected by the conditions that cause kidney disease and kidney failure, but most are not aware that they even have a problem. This is due in large part to the primary reasons for kidney disease; untreated and undiagnosed high blood pressure and diabetes, which often go undetected until damage to the body and kidneys is extensive. For more information about the Middle Market Open or the National Kidney Foundation of Illlinois, or to make a donation, please visit: ¬ nfki.org or contact Devon Albert at 312.321.1500 or dalbert@nkfi.org. The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI), a major voluntary health organization, seeks to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation.
September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 31
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Palopoli’s Picks
by Jeff Palopoli
The Race for the FedEx Cup – Who’s Going to Win? The 2011 season has been a fantastic year for golf, one that has showcased the young talent we have to look forward to for years to come. Rory McIlroy dusted the field at the U.S. Open to make history and made us ask, "Tiger who?" New England native Keegan Bradley won twice in his rookie campaign, one being the PGA Championship. Through the Deutsche Bank Championship there have been 17 tournaments won by players under the age of 30, seven of them are playing in their rookie season. Needless to say, the future of the PGA TOUR looks extremely bright. The FedEx Cup Playoffs got off to a shaky start weather-wise at The Barclays. The tournament was shortened to 54-holes and Dustin Johnson picked up his first win of the season and claimed the top spot in the FedEx Cup rankings to go along with it. From there the top 100 players moved up the East Coast to the TPC Boston for the Deutsche Bank Championship which again provided lots of low scores. At the DBC Webb Simpson continued his stellar season by picking up his second victory of the year within just three weeks time. The 26 year old continues to prove that he's one of the best players on TOUR under the age of 30. To go along with his two victories, Simpson also has nine top 10s and has been one of the most consistent players on TOUR all year. There's only one other player who's been more consistent throughout the 2011 season and he also happens to be the #1 player in the World. Luke Donald, while only winning once (WGC Accenture Match Play) on TOUR this year, he's chalked up 10 other top 10s including a T3 at the DBC. As the field gets whittled down to the top 70 players for the BMW Championship, and ultimately 30
34 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
players for the TOUR Championship, it really becomes anybody's game to take the Cup and the $10 million prize. After the BMW Championship the points are reset for the remaining 30 players and trying to follow the multitude of possible outcomes feels a bit like a watching Matt Damon solve complex math equations in Good Will Hunting. Following the Deutsche Bank Championship, the TOUR takes two weeks off before travelling to Chicago for the third leg of the Playoffs at the BMW Championship. When the FedEx Cup race comes to an end in Atlanta at the TOUR Championship on September 22nd, I think it's going to be Luke Donald hoisting the Cup and cashing the $10 million dollar check. His entire season has been a model of consistency and despite the amount of golf he's played worldwide throughout the year he hasn't shown any signs of fatigue. Heading to Chicago for the BMW will also be somewhat of a coming home party for Donald who makes his home nearby, so I believe his strong play will continue there. My top three finishers for the FedEx Cup are: Luke Donald, Webb Simpson, and Brandt Snedeker. Snedeker has had his foot on the accelerator since the Playoffs began, and has put together back to back 3rd place finishes and seems to be playing with plenty of confidence. Here's how my picks for the Deutsche Bank Championship shook out: Webb Simpson (1st), Luke Donald (3rd), Jason Day (3rd), Adam Scott (8th), Nick Watney (61st), Bill Haas (61st), Justin Rose (68th), Vijay Singh (MC). Follow Jeff's weekly Fantasy Golf picks on www.mynegm.com, and also be sure to check out his blog at www.goodwalkgolf.com. Jeff can be reached at Jeff@goodwalkgolf.com.
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New England Golf Monthly | September 2011 | 35
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Clinic Under the Lights
by Jim Hammond IT’’ was the night before the Deutsche Bank Golf Tournament and Fran Nobilo stopped by to hold court under the lights at Wentworth Hills Golf Club in Plainville, Mass. Nobilo is the popular Golf Channel commentator who had a distinguished career as a professional golfer . The native of New Zealander won the New Zealand Amateur at the age of 18 and turned pro shortly after winning that title. It seems that Nobilo knew that he would have an interesting life when he learned that one of his greatgrandparents was a pirate. Nobilo is known for being a bit of a swashbuckler on and off the course and has been no stranger to controversy.. Nobilo won 15 professional tournaments and had finished in 4th place in The Masters. But in 1998 he was hit above the eye while playing golf in Florida. The cut required 30 stitches and his career was never the same again. He retired from golf in 2003 and was soon hired as a commentator on the Golf Channel. Frank was seated under the lights by the club’s practice green and immediately asked the golf fans what was on their minds. One of the first questions posed by the audience was what is the best piece of advice can he give to somebody who wants to take their game to the next level. “ Don’t think ahead” said Nobilo.” Don’t think oh boy if I par the next three holes I can break 80.” “Focus on the shot at hand and after you make the shot forget it and start concentrating on the next shot.” Frank feels that Annika Sorenstam was best at that type of philosophy.” When her shot was in the air she was already thinking about the next shot. “ How do you relax ?” asked another fan. “ Well. Greg Norman would squeeze the club as hard as he could and then he slowly relaxed the pressure. “ “ Seve Ballesteros would hug himself, squeeze his ribs with all his might. Then take deep breathes” “Find a way that works for you.” Concerning resent golf news Nobilo spoke about how impressed he is with Keegan Bradley. Bradley is a native of Hopkinton Mass and won two tournaments in his rookie year, one of them the PGA Chamionship at the Atlanta Athletic Club.” When I saw Bradley on the Nationwide Tour I noticed that he had that look: It was that kind of look you see in
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champions like Nicklaus and Watson.” He said. “ Look at people like Palmer and Watson,” he said. “ “ They would stare you down on the first tee.” “Most of the field was defeated before they even started.” Nobilo said they all had that look, that “fire in the eyes that said to an opponent, forget it. You’re finished.” “What a bout the long putter ? “ another fan wanted to know. Phil Mickelson was spotted using a belly putter in recent practice rounds, but Nobilo was not in favor of the trend.” The New Zealander felt that they should be outlawed. “ When you have a putter that is anchored against your body you are working from a fixed point. You eliminate the swinging motion in a putt and gain an unfair advantage.” After fielding a few more questions, Nobilo gave a putting clinic and recommended some drills that we all could use to fine tune our game on the greens. Casey Bierer is the new manager at Wentworth Hills and had worked with Nobilo together on the Golf Channel. Since Nobilo was in town to cover the deutsche Bank Championship at the TPC Boston, he accepted the invitation of his former colleague to visit Wentworth Hills and drop a few pearls of wisdom to area golf fans. Look for other special events that will be coming to Wentworth Hills in the future.
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NEPGA Profile by Bob DiCesare
Mike Haberl In the summer months, Mike Haberl literally spends every day at the Hyannisport Club. No time to play in any NEPGA events. Not much time to play golf with colleagues or friends at other posh Cape Cod golf courses. The bottom line is that the 43-year-old Haberl, a Dennis native, feels fortunate to have been able to return to Cape Cod six years ago for a high-profile position and he's thriving in his element. He's happy giving lessons to the membership (among them LPGA Hall of Famer Pat Bradley) and maintaining a strong caddie program. "It is a busy time here at the Hyannisport Club," said Haberl. "It's no surprise. You know it and you accept it." Haberl played golf at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High and Temple University, where he was part of a contingent of Bay State stalwarts to have played there such as Geoff Sisk, Brian and Kevin Quinn, Brian Stewart, and earlier Steve Tasho. Haberl started as an assistant pro at Dennis Pines Golf Course, where his father, Jay, was the head professional for 40 years. He became head pro at Olde Barnstable Fairgrounds, and then moved on to MGA Links at Mamantapett in Norton, where he was instrumental in growing The First Tee of Massachusetts, a program renown for enriching the lives of junior golfers. He also
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helped coordinate a very popular annual clinic for students from the Perkins School for the Blind. "It was a pleasure to help build the junior program for the MGA (Mass. Golf Association)," said Haberl. "What started out as a thought became a reality. We went from zero, to 60, to 300, to 600 in the first three years. We started with the Norton facility, and now there's five satellite programs in the state." When Haberl had the chance to become head pro at the Hyannisport Club, he jumped at it, but it was really more for personal reasons than professional. "I wanted to get back on Cape Cod," said Haberl. "I grew up on the Cape and love it here. I'm a Cape Cod guy." Haberl also relishes the club's relationship with the Cape Cod Amateur tournament and the Seagulls Invitational in April, which kicks off the local golf season. Haberl has known Kevin Carey and Joe Walker, winners of the tournament numerous times, from his days at Dennis Pines. "All those guys are diehards," said Haberl. "The weather conditions in early spring help make that tournament unique." Haberl recently enjoyed the club's atmosphere following PGA Tour rookie Keegan Bradley's stunning victory at the PGA Championship, especially with his aunt, Pat, at the club. Pat Bradley was planning to be present at the Deutsche Bank Championship this month, rooting on Keegan in his quest for the FedEx Cup title and a wishful berth on the U.S. Presidents Cup team. "There's been a lot of good vibes here following Keegan's victory," said Haberl, "and Pat (Bradley) is certainly great to have around the club." (Bob DiCesare is the golf writer for The Enterprise in Brockton, MA, and he is also a member of the International Network of Golf)
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The Training Aid Spotlight: Pin High Pro
by Greg Sampson
The Claim There are many training aids on the market that help improve the fundamentals involved in the golf swing. The Pin High Pro, invented by Carl Papa, claims to improve accuracy, trajectory and distance by helping a golfer finish on their through side (left side for righties and vice versa).
The Test The Pin High Pro is completely portable and can be used indoors or out. Once the aid was positioned on the ground I tested the aid for different types of shots from a full shot to a chip. Full Swing: As I hit balls using various clubs in my bag I found that my body rhythm became more consistent. My weight shifted to my through leg at the exact time of impact producing a beep at impact that remained constant to finish. Accuracy, trajectory, and distance all improved. Pitching: I practiced a combination of low, mid, and high trajectory pitches focusing on constant TRAVELING TO A GOLF COURSE? • Locate a Course Nearby • Never look for a phone number • Never get lost
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weight on my through side for a low trajectory, relaxed weight transfer for a mid trajectory and early weight shift to my through side for a high trajectory. The beeps were consistent with trajectory and my distance control improved immensely. Chipping: I placed all my weight on my through side and the beep remained constant the entire motion producing proper bump n’ run shots. My landing spot, ball spin and finish position were all very similar.
The Verdict After testing the Pin High Pro I found that the simple sound of a “beep” worked just as promised to improve my weight distribution. The Pin High Pro is for real. After training on the aid personally I would highly recommend the Pin High Pro to any golfer with weight transfer and/or over the top flaws!
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myNEGM Lesson Tee Golf Conditioning: It’s Time by Steve Riggs Labor Day is over and it is time to start thinking about how you can improve your chances of actually winning those weekend skins games next year. Too early you say? I think not. An hour a week working with a certified fitness expert trained in exercise programs specifically designed for golf can make all the difference in your golf swing and game. The growth of golf fitness and conditioning programs is astounding. Search on the internet typing in the words ‘golf fitness conditioning programs’. To narrow your search, add the area and state where you live. Golf conditioning and fitness is very specific and has nothing to do with turning you into some muscle bound
Adonis. You won’t see a bunch of guys and gals standing around admiring their bulging muscles. Chances are, the only equipment you are going to see are balance balls, pulleys mounted on the wall, mirrors and the like. Visit a couple of facilities in your area to see if you are comfortable with the programs being offered as well as the instructor. Ask questions and, if you can, spend a little time watching customers as they go through their routine. Once you decide on a program, schedule your evaluation so a program can be tailored to fit your needs. An hour a week through the off season will make you a winner next year, and, you won’t miss a quarter of football. It’s a win, win situation. (teve Riggs is a retired teaching professional with over 30 year experience. He has consulted on and developed practice facilities and instruction programs in U.S. and Caribbean. Steve is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America. He is host/ producer of the mynegm LESSON TEE Radio/Internet Show in its third year on the air. The show airs Wednesdays from 10:05-11am ET on WNRI AM 1380 Radio and online at mynegm.com and wnri.com.
The Road Back For Brad Adamonis by Steve Riggs
Brad Adamonis is hanging in there on his quest to return to the PGA TOUR as his scoring confidence steadily returns. While he has posted some good scores of late, he has also put up some real doozies, but his resoluteness appears to be intact. An example: After shooting an opening round 74 at the Mylan Classic in Cannonsburg, PA, on Thursday, he came back firing a second round 62. Brad has had a slow and painful start on the Nationwide Tour this year as he fights to regain his PGA TOUR playing privileges. His focus and resolve have enabled this 38 year old Cumberland, Rhode Island native to keep his goal in the forefront as he cleared the cobwebs of the past couple
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years from his psyche. The result is that he has played much better in the past several weeks proving he does have what it takes to consistently shoot sub par rounds as he did on that day at Southpointe GC with his 9 under 62. In fact, Brad’s scores of 69 or better are beginning to outnumber those north of 70 which is a good sign. At the level of competition now on the Nationwide Tour, with the tremendous talent in the young players, it would be easy to lose sight of the prize, so to speak, and give up but not Brad. He has shown he has what it takes. While it may take a bit longer than he planned, Brad Adamonis will get back to the PGA TOUR, I have no doubt.
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Now Open!
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September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 45
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Team New England On The Tours As the regular season comes to a close for the PGA TOUR, Keegan Bradley is obviously our TNE standout winning the 2011 PGA Championship. TNE just might have the Rookie of the Year for 2011 in Keegan. With the FedX Playoffs underway at this writing, Keegan Bradley, Scott Stallings and JJ Henry are in the Playoffs. PGA TOUR Keegan Bradley, PGA (VT) has had quite a rookie season winning the PGA Championship and Bryon Nelson. Bradley has made 16 cut in 24 starts earning $3,432,200, placing him in 4th position on the money list as the regular season comes to a close. In addition to his 2 wins, Keegan has amassed 4 top 10 and 10 top 25 finishes. Scott Stallings, PGA (MA) has made 10 cuts in 24 starts including his victory at the Greenbrier earlier this year. Scott’s earnings this year sit at $1,891,825 and put him in 38th position as the FedX Playoffs advance. Tim Petrovic, PGA (MA) having made 13 cuts in 25 starts with earnings of $394,709 with 3 top 25 finishes. Tim needs to improve his GIR, (greens in regulation) along with his driving distance stats as he finished the year just out of the top 125 in position 128. James Driscoll, PGA (MA) sits at $636,035 in earnings with 2 top 10 and 3 top 25 finishes. James’ high point of this season was his 5th place finish at the Travelers Championship. James finished regular season play ranked 123 on the PGA TOUR and retains his TOUR card for the 2011 season. J.J. Henry, PGA (CT) with earnings of $854,617 making 18 cuts in 25 starts with 1 top 10 and 8 top 25 finishes, Henry remains one of our most consistent players for Team New England. While off his pace of a year ago of earnings, J.J. is in 76th position going into the FedX Cup race. Jim Renner, PGA (MA) has made 9 cuts in 18 starts earning $342,763 so far in his full year playing on the PGA TOUR. Jim’s best finish was a T4 at the Viking Classic. Renner finished in 149th position and out of the top 125 but I am sure we’ve not heard the last of this talented player from Plainville. Brett Quigley, PGA (RI) has struggled this season, making only 3 cuts in 10 starts on the PGA competing where he could get into the field. A solo Nationwide appearance nets Brett’s formal earnings at $60,425 for the year.
CHAMPIONS TOUR Allen Doyle, has also made the cut in all 10 of his starts earning $44,866 to date and career earnings of $13,330,040, not too bad for this Woonsocket, RI native who has been competing since 1998. Dana Quigley, has made 11 cuts in 12 starts of his events this year earning $51,048. Dana’s scoring average has improved over last year and his career earnings are $14,766,904. Brad Faxon, Champions (RI) has made the jump to the Champions Tour in August. So far, Brad has made 3 cuts in 3 starts with earnings of $34,591. Although a late start, Brad promises to be a standout on the Champions Tour.
LPGA TOUR Anna Grzebien, has made 3 cuts in 6 starts earning $26,169. Looking at Anna’s stats, a little improvement for this tour veteran will make a huge difference.
Allison Walsh has made 3 cuts in 9 starts earning $56,565. She has finished T10 at the Safeway and T27 in the U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN. Congrats!
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NATIONWIDE TOUR
LPGA FUTURES TOUR
Patrick Sheehan, (RI) has made 7 cuts in 16 starts earning $18,236 in 2011. Not a stellar year for Sheehan who is trying to shake the ‘stat blues’ this year. In particular, Patrick’s scoring average this year is his worst since 2007. Trevor Murphy, Nationwide (VT) has made just 8 cuts in 17 starts for earnings of $30,266 with 8 events remaining on the Nationwide at this writing. Trevor, again, needs to improve those statistics. He most certainly has the talent.
Natalie Sheary, LPGA Futures, (CT) is competing in her first season on the Futures Tour. Sheary has earned $14,230 in 11 starts. Sheary has 3 top 10 finishes this year. Natalie has had a respectable first year on there. Chelsea Cutis (MA) continues to struggle with her swing. Earnings of $3,574 in 14 starts on the Futures Tour is an indication this very talented young lady has her work cut out for her this winter with only one event remaining as of this writing.
Rob Oppenheim, Nationwide (MA) has made 12 cuts in 18 starts for earnings of $94,275 to date. So far Rob is our standout on the Nationwide Tour this year. Rob’s scoring average is lower this year over last.
Libby Smith (VT) has 6 starts this year with earnings of $560 along with the $3,578 earned in the Thailand Ladies Open, her total 2011 earnings are at $4,138 as this season comes to a close.
Geoff Sisk, Nationwide (MA) having competed in 16 events Sisk has made 10 cuts earning $34,378. There is a lot of golf yet to be played so don’t count Sisk out.
Julie Erekson (MA) is in her 4th year on the Futures Tour earning $3,789 in 10 starts. Julie continues to work and maintain a positive outlook as her blog indicates.
Justin Peters, Nationwide (MA) has started in 9 events this year making 1 cut earning $1,540 thus far. Justin needs to get a little traction coming down the homestretch.
Kim Augusta (RI) having had a taste of competition on the LPGA TOUR in 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2004, Kim has earnings of $2,087 in 14 starts this year. That taste for the ‘big dance’ is sure to keep motivating Augusta to stay focused.
Brad Adamonis, Nationwide (RI) has made 8 cuts in 16 starts, which includes his first U.S.Open. With earnings of $33,880 thus far, Adamonis’ learning curve, for this writer, is starting to pay off as his stats have started to turn around in recent weeks.
Briana Vega (MA) has 15 starts with earnings of $4,576 as the year comes to a close. Like most of Team New England only needs to get a handle on her course stats which do show a bit of improvement.
Jeff Curl, Nationwide, (CT) has made 5 cuts in 12 starts on the Nationwide, earning $11,691 to date. Jeff has had some ups and downs this year but continues to persevere. This young man has talent.
Haley Gidea (RI) having been competing on the Futures Tour since 2008. Haley’s name is not currently on the Futures Tour players list.
Fran Quinn, (MA) is playing on both the PGA and NATIONWIDE Tours this year making 2 cuts in 7 starts for $29,597 on the PGA circuit and 3 cuts in 7 starts on the Nationwide Tour earning $22,630 for total earnings so far in 2011 of $52,227. Fran has obviously recovered from his back surgery of last year.
Susan Choi, (MA)has had only 2 starts in 2011 with no earnings. Decision time for this talented young lady we believe.
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Amber Richardson (RI) last competed in the Alliance Bank Classic in 2010. Like Haley, Amber’s name has been dropped from the Futures Player’s list as of this writing.
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College Corner University of Rhode Island Rams The Annual Adams Cup The Adams Cup of Newport has become in its 17year history a college ‘major’. The import of the tournament is not lost on the new URI Golf Coach Gregg Burke who takes the helm this year following the retirement of 23-year head coach Tom Drennan. Burke, who is also the school’s Deputy Director of Athletics has overseen the golf program at URI for the past seven years. “The Adams Cup is golf royalty. We’ve had teams win the Adams Cup in September and the NCAA title in May. We’ve had players like Tim Clarke and Grame McDowell and teams like Duke, Oklahoma State and NC State. Every coach in the country knows about the tournament, the golf courses, and the way we treat the players,” said Burke. This year the tournament will be held September 19 and 20 at both Newport National and Carnegie Abbey and will feature teams like Texas Tech, Central Florida and Georgia. Says Burke, “As a scheduler you learn how to pick up the phone and ask teams to play you; for the Adams Cup, you answer the phone and explain why there is a waiting list. We are very fortunate that Matt Adams (president of Newport National), Tom Drennan and Ron Petro (former AD) created this event. To be able to play on these two courses is truly something special. We’re also fortunate to have had so many people and businesses support our pre-tournament golf event over the years. The New England teams look forward to this because we all get to see right away who has improved. With both the fall and spring New England Champi-
onships losing luster with dwindling fields, The Adams Cup becomes the crown jewel.” Follow the Adams Cup and the rest of the Rams season at: gorhody.com
Bryant University Bulldogs Charlie Blanchard named golf coach SMITHFIELD, R.I. – One of the top amateur golfers in New England, Charlie Blanchard has been named the new head coach of the Bryant University men's golf program. Blanchard becomes just the second coach in program history, taking over for Archie Boulet, who retired following the 2010-11 season after a remarkable 47year career. "We are very excited to name Charlie as the next head coach of the Bryant University men's golf program," said Director of Athletics Bill Smith. "He brings a tremendous amount of experience to our already well-respected program." A familiar face on the local golf circuit, Blanchard brings a decorated résumé to the Bryant program with six Rhode Island Golf Association Player of the Year Awards on his very impressive resume that also includes USGA Championships. "I am very excited about the opportunity to serve as the head coach of the Bryant University men's golf team," said Blanchard. "It is truly an honor to take over such a successful and highly respected program built by Archie. Those are some big shoes to fill, but it is my goal to continue that success that Bryant golf has enjoyed over its history and become the best in the conference and region." Follow the Bryant Bulldogs season at: z bryantbulldogs.com
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What’s in the Bag?
Jim Renner - PGA Tour Driver: Cleveland 310. 72 gram Miyazaki
Dromo shaft x flex 3 Wood: Nike vs pro 14 degree balck Fujikura
Motore shaft 80grams. 2 Hybrid: Adams - 3 iron 21degres, 18 degree hy-
brid motore shaft Irons: Cleveland cg1 tour. Dynamic gold x100 shaft Wedges: Cleveland cg16 52 degree black model. Cleveland 588 60 degree rusty Putter: Piretti Cortino ln model 35inch Ball: Srixon XV Glove: Srixon Ball Marker: New England Patriots coin. Was
James McDonoughs before he passed away. Drink: Pure Focus to stay hydrated Wrist band: HelioPro
September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 49
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What’s News New England Junior Amateur Championship. Congratulations to Team Massachusetts, which captured the 2011 New England Junior Amateur Championship with a team score of 367. The seven-player Bay State team finished 13 points ahead of Connecticut and New Hampshire. Winning the individual title with a sizzling score of 4-under par 67 was Peter French. The 17-year-old from Bellingham carded five birdies and just one bogey and was the only player in the field to shoot under par. Seamus Fennelly (RI) and Jason Steele finished T2 with scores of 1-over par 72.
Brian and Patrick O'Leary Capture the Fordie Pitts, Jr. Junior Division Title at the 2011 Massachusetts Father & Son Championship For many years, the team of Brian O'Leary (Ponkapoag GC) and Patrick O'Leary (Ponkapoag GC) never had a chance to compete in the Massachusetts Father & Son Championship, but they made their debut one to remember. Under perfect conditions in Hudson, the duo carded a score of 1-under par 70 to capture the Fordie Pitts, Jr. Junior Division title by two strokes at the 2011 Massachusetts Father & Son Championship held this week at Charter Oak Country Club.
Nick McLaughlin Captures Second Massachusetts Junior Amateur Championship Title; Jack Lang and Steven Dilisio Win Pre Junior & Boys Titles Over a three-day period, Nick McLaughlin (Far Corner GC) played through sun, rain, wind and drizzle but it never seemed to rattle him as he carded a three-round score of 2-over par 218 to capture his second career Massachusetts Junior Amateur Championship. McLaughlin drained a two-foot par putt on the 18th hole at Renaissance Golf Club to seal his second title (his first came in 2009).
Pre Junior Division Highlights Finishing strong has been the story of his season thus far. Jack Lang (Nashawtuc CC) improved each day of this event and carded an even par 72 on the final day for a three-round total of 9-over par 225 to capture the Pre Junior Division title by one stroke over David Thompson (Cyprian Keyes GC).
Boys Division Highlights Steven Dilisio (Salem CC) entered the final round tied for first, but it did not take him long to pull ahead and secure himself a third straight Boys Division title. He finished with a two-day score of 5-over par 149 for a six-stroke victory.
50 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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Bay State Amateurs Capture Three of Four Qualifying Spots at 2011 U.S. Senior Amateur Sectional Qualifier. Three local amateurs carded under par rounds and earned themselves a spot at the 2011 U.S. Senior Amateur Championship following a sectional qualifier held on Tuesday at Red Tail Golf Club. Leading the charge with medalist scores of 2under par 70 were Cy Kilgore (Tedesco CC) and Paul Murphy (Charles River CC).Also qualifying in Devens with scores of 1-under par 71 were Carter Fasick (Indian Meadows GC) and Allen Pattee (Manchester, NH). As a result of their play today, the four qualifiers will compete at the 2011 U.S. Senior Amateur Championship scheduled for September 10-15 at Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia.
Hickson takes NEPGA Championship in extra holes
In the 90 year history of the New England PGA Championship, there have been 59 champions and 18 multiple winners. Today in Plymouth, only one of those numbers changed. John Hickson, PGA of Dick’s Sporting Goods
in Maine, beat Ron Philo, PGA of Stowe Mountain Club on the second playoff hole to claim his second NEPGA Championship and become the 19th multiple winner of the NEPGA’s most coveted prize. The playoff between the two veterans was to be contested on the 18th hole until a winner was determined. After both parred the first hole, Hickson and Philo each had birdie putts. Philo was away and knocked his by a few feet. Rather than marking his ball, Philo decided to finish out his short putt. Unfortunately, he missed the par putt to the left, giving Hickson two putts to secure the title. That was all he needed, and he locked up his second NEPGA Championship and cemented his name amongst some of the best players in NEPGA history.
September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 51
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Scott Congdon Captures 2011 Massachusetts Amateur Public Links Championship By One Stroke at South Shore Country Club Under perfect conditions at South Shore Country Club on Wednesday, Scott Congdon (Foxborough CC) put on a display of spectacular golf and stony nerve to capture the 2011 Massachusetts Amateur Public Links Championship. The 24 year old from Foxborough finished with a two-round score of 6-under par 138 to best last year's champion Devin Bibeau (Highfields G&CC) by one stroke.
Robert and David Currey Capture Second Senior Division Title in Three Years at the Massachusetts Father & Son Championship For the second time in three years, the team of Robert Currey (Brae Burn CC) and David Currey (Brae Burn CC) captured the senior division title at the 2011 Massachusetts Father & Son Championship. The Currey’s, who won this event in a playoff in 2009 and finished second in 2010, came through with one of their most impressive victories... firing a 4-under par 67 on a very challenging Charter Oak Country Club layout.
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September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 53
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What’s in the Bag? PGA Champion - Keegan Bradley Driver:
Cleveland Launcher UltraLite TL 310 (10.5°) with a Miyazaki Kusala 61 shaft 3 Wood:
Cleveland Launcher FL (14°) with a Miyazaki Kusala 83 shaft 2 Hybrid:
Cleveland Launcher DST (18°) with a Project X XHB6 shaft; Mashie TM3 (20.5°) with a Miyazaki C Kua 105 shaft Irons:
Cleveland CG7 Tour (4-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue shafts Wedges:
Cleveland CG14 (52°, 58°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue shafts Putter:
Odyssey White Hot XG Sabertooth Ball:
Srixon Z-Star
twitter.com/keegan_bradley
54 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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Pay it Forward by Neil Policow
Shake Up Your Tournament Format
While estimates vary, any way you slice it (yes, pun intended) charity golf events are BIG business. There are more than half a MILLION charity events held in the US each year. Put another way, within 50 miles of your tournament, on any given day during the season, there are more than 100 regional events that are your competition for players and sponsors. What can you do to attract a full field of golfers and sponsors? Shaking up your format with fresh content is one answer. • Team Scrambles are by far the most common format representing upwards of 60% of all events. They are a good fit for the occasional golfer but the least preferred as your tournament attracts a more competitive field. Consider a Bramble or a Best Ball Format, especially if you are lucky enough to host your tournament at a destination resort or exclusive private club. • Do you have access to local celebrities or club pros? If so, consider a Celebrity Pro-AM with teams including local sports figures and pros. You might include a few celebrities to start and potentially add more involvement as your tournament gains a standing in the local golf schedule.
• Add a big ticket competition to your event. Some events are now including opportunities to compete in a $100,000 Shoot Out instead of the traditional Hole in One competition. Carry it a step further with a Million Dollar Shoot Out either as part of your tournament or even as a standalone event. Players qualify by shooting at a target from 125 yards and the finalists then have an attempt from 165 yards for the big money. • Consider non-traditional golf events. Is the established competition too daunting to launch your new event this season? Why not consider a fresh, new approach with Night Golf (using glow balls), a Long Drive Contest or even a Mini Golf Tournament like the Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt-Putt. The Bottom Line: Bring in fresh content, innovation and think outside of the box as you are planning your next event. Neil Policow is a Partner in LeaderBoard of Boston and a certified golf tournament consultant. Last year LeaderBoard supported events raised more than $3 million dollars. Email him at npolicow@ltsleaderboard.com.
September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 55
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58 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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myNEGM.com September 2011 | Vol IV. Issue VII
Editor / Publisher Timothy R. Branco Design & Production CollectiveThoughtMedia.com Administration Mary L. Hullett Contributors Tom Gorman Greg Sampson John Molori Tim Geary John Lyon Larry Gavrich Alice Scott Pam Borges Bob DiCesare Laura Ebrecht Steve Riggs Robert Martin Jeff Palopoli Kathleen Dyson Emily Kay Matt Adams Jack Ross Jim Hammond Danny Scott Ed Travis Trish Davis Leigh McKay Neil Policow PGA TOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Ken Dennis kendennisphoto.com
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Gorman vs. Geary by Tom Gorman and Tim Geary
Will Tiger Win Again? Yes. by Tom Gorman
YES. Last time I looked, about an hour ago, the PGA TOUR had a bunch of unknown and unrecognizable kids in their 20’s dominating the leaderboard. In fact, the PGA might have to change its logo from “These Guys Are Good” to “These Kids Are Good.” Seems like every Sunday afternoon another Golfer’s Anonymous meeting ends with a noname Nationwide Tour alumni holding the trophy and million-dollar check. From 38 events to date, there have been 34 different winners, with 15 in their 20’s, including 12 first-time winners. Gone forever are the days when Tiger, Phil, Vijay, Ernie & Jim have multiple win seasons. Rory, Dustin, Keegan, Bubba and Rickie are colorful new faces of the future but I bet even that know-it-all Tim Geary couldn’t identify Jason Dufner, Scott Stallings, Charl Schwartzel, Brendan Steel, Webb Simpson or Harrison Frazer in a lineup? I couldn’t. With so much youth and talent on TOUR the legitimate question raised in this debate is whether a 35-year old Tiger will ever win again? Doomsayers like Mr. Geary, a hack writer and golfer, huff-and-puff that Tiger is toast; that his swing is gone; the intimidation factor lost and he can’t putt anymore! Just as sure as the Red Sox will win the pennant in October and the Bruins will repeat as Stanley Cup champs, YES, Tiger Woods will win again! Go ahead and bet the mortgage on it, and here’s why. Tiger Woods’ fame and awesomeness has inspired this new generation of competitors because he is the greatest player ever. No one, not even Jack Nicklaus or Ben Hogan, the two most dominant golfers of the last 60 years, recorded stretches like Woods’s five-for-six streak in consecutive majors from 1999-2001 or his six-for14 streak from 2005-2008. Woods holds 14
majors, a whopping 10 more than Phil Mickelson, the closest active player with only 4. Quite a feat – heh? Although the real Tiger has been in hibernation for 22 months, expect His Royal Tigerness to post his next “W” on Sunday November 20 in the singles match of the Presidents Cup at Melbourne, Australia. Other than Adam Scott, Jason Day and K.J. Choi the International Team has a bunch of lightweight wimps. At 35, Woods is smart and experienced and he will hoist more trophies. Historically, at that age, the greatest pros are at their peak. Tiger Woods has temporarily lost his mojo! He will overcome the game-ruining demons of mental doubt and hesitation and return to winning form. Why can’t he win another major next year? And, when he does, watch out! It will be Tiger-business as usual. When Woods plays the world watches, and golf will herald his return and his next precious win. At the moment, golf may not need Tiger as much as Tiger needs golf. But TV ratings will go up when Woods contends. Fans will become breathless if he goes on an early Sunday birdiebinge the way he did at the Masters in April. Mr. Geary desperately wants to bolt away from this debate like Seabiscuit. It does matter that Woods has 71 PGA TOUR wins and 12 International victories. It does matter that he needs to be healthy. In this instantly gratifying age of Twitter and Facebook, Woods’ fate seems to rise and fall with the result of each shot. Expect the karma to return and for him to put the pieces together and start winning again. We’d be foolish to think otherwise.
60 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
Tom Gorman, a hack writer and golfer, would shine Tiger Woods’ shoes and wash his clubs if asked.
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Will Tiger Win Again? No. by Tim Geary
While Tigers Woods’ endorsements have been drying up like a Texas prairie, there is one company for which he would be the perfect pitchman; Medic Alert. Because it certainly appears that the guy who seemed a sure fire bet to eclipse Jack Nicklaus as the holder of the most major championships in history has fallen and can’t get up. I write this the day after Woods missed the cut at the PGA championship. He began the tournament like the Tiger of old instead of the rapidly aging Tiger. He was 3-under par very early in the day and then imploded. Instead of looking like the former number one player in the world he looked like some club pro from central Nebraska. No number one player has ever flamed out this badly since David Duval and Duval was never on the same level as Tiger. Duval couldn't beat somebody just by showing up. Ever since that Thanksgiving nightmare when his former wife discovered his alleged indiscretions, it's as though Tiger has been transformed into Kitten Woods, like Elin Nordegren was some kind of Scandinavian sorceress who put a curse on her cheatin' ex, taking away his gift forever. How else do we explain Tiger spraying his tee shots hither and yon, scaring the bejeebers out of the wildlife that call the trees home and causing spectators to consider wearing hard hats when he's on the teebox? How else do you rationalize his putting woes, this from a man who used to regularly drain every clutch putt he looked at and now has problems with a straight-in 3-footer? Well there is the knee to consider. But the knee, after four surgeries, is supposed to be okay now. And if it really was the knee than how do we explain Tiger winning the 2009 United States Open, when he was literally playing on one leg? There is also the age factor and isn't that something to chew on? It doesn't seem all that long ago that we recall a young Tiger, straw fedora atop his head, pumping his 18-year old fist in the air after
draining a birdie putt that all but clinched the first of his three successive U.S. Amateur championships. But now Woods is 35 (at this writing), not old by any stretch of the imagination, but at an age when the body begins to fray. And then there's the swing, or swings. He's on swing coach number three and this can't be good for the reputation of Sean Foley because scatter guns are more accurate than Tiger has been under the tutelage of Foley. Woods fired Butch Harmon, where his swing was honed. He dropped Hank Haney, where it flourished. and now he's using Foley because he says it puts less stress on his knee. Okay, that may be, but it's putting a lot of stress on his scorecard. Right now Tom Gorman hits more fairways then Tiger and the 14th club in Gorman's bag is made by Homelite. Finally there's the absence of Earl Woods. Tiger's father trained him both physically and mentally, almost from the time he was born. While you can't make a silk purse out of a pile of garbage, Earl molded his son into what he became, an absolute golfing machine. Tiger was what I like to refer to as a test tube athlete. His entire focus was on golf, golf and more golf. Remember the stories of how Earl used to chase away Tigers' girlfriends? Now dad is gone and Tiger no longer has that ultimate support system to rely on. He has no wife, his former best friend and caddie is toting for Adam Scott. Woods has become an island and really should read some John Donne. Is Tiger toast? Who really knows for sure, but this is a player who has never come from behind in the final round of a tournament to win, and guess what gang? Career wise he's in the fourth round and making the turn. Tim Geary is a R.I.-based freelance writer. He sometimes plays 13 holes. Those are the days he shoots in the 60s.
September 2011 | New England Golf Monthly | 61
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62 | New England Golf Monthly | September 2011
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WHAT IF YOU COULD HIT A WEDGE THAT GAVE YOU A HUGE TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANTAGE? WHO WOULDN’T DO IT? A couple of months ago, the guys from F2 Golf makers of the very popular F2 wedges-which have sold well over a hundred thousand clubs-called. They said, “Andy, we’d appreciate you taking a look at our new design, the new F2 wedges are really different.” That’s an understatement. They’ve incorporated a “dog-leg hosel” which gets the hosel out of the way of the ball…reducing drag through rough and sand, and giving you more surface area to the golf ball. You can’t shank it. But here’s the coolest thing about the new F2s. When you address the golf ball and look down, it looks like a great looking, traditional wedge. With its radical, yet beautiful club head, and maximum spin from legal grooves, the new F2 wedge is TRUE innovation in wedge design. I believe for most golfers, this new F2 wedge might just make every other wedge in golf, obsolete. F2 SS wedges come with our “hit it closer and score lower” Andy North–2 time US open Champion guarantee. With the new F2 wedges, you will hit your shots from 100 yards in and shoot lower scores, guaranteed! And eliminate the possibility of a shank. If you don’t, just send ‘em back for a full product refund within 30 days, no questions asked!
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