Victory #4 in 2013...

Tiger, Tiger Tiger Woods…..another amazing tournament full of fist pumps, long putts and the Nike swoosh.  I know that not everybody is a Tiger fan and that’s okay but what he has brought to the 2013 season needs to be noted.   He is a winning machine this season and I think its time for you guys to jump on the bandwagon!!  

In a press conference he stated:  “Am I surprised?”  “No. I know a lot of people in this room thought I was done. But I’m not.”  There’s no blood loss between Sergio Garcia and Tiger Woods in two interviews Sergio was quoted saying:  “He’s not the nicest guy on tour.”  And “We don’t enjoy each other’s company. You don’t need to be a rocket engineer to figure that out.”

Best dress over the weekend in my books would be Sergio Garcia on Sunday.  His grey pants with the pink grey and white top was simply perfect.

 

Scramble vs. Best Ball...

The two most popular formats of golf are “scramble” and “best ball”  Often golfers mistake both terms for being the same. 

Below is a description of “scramble” in a golf tournament:

•At the tee every player tee’s off.  From there the team will decides what tee shot to choose to play from and continue this for every shot.

•if the ball being played is in the rough, the player that hit it there hits first from where it lies, the rest of the team drops within 12 inches or 1-club length depending on the golf tournaments rules : no closer to the hole and has to be dropped in the rough.

•if the ball being played is in a bunker, same rule applies except the remaining players rake and place.

•putting can be done in any order.

Brent Kelley defines “best ball" format:

"Best ball -- a type of golf tournament where each golfer plays his/her own ball from start to finish but the team score for each hole is determined by the best score of all the team members. The 'best scores' are then totaled for the final 18 hole score. There can be

two, three or four golfers on each team."

GolfExpert.com: Glossary: "B"

http://www.thegolfexpert.com/lingo-b.asp

After reading those definitions it is clear that “scramble” and “best ball” are two different formats of golf and played completely differently.  I hope this helps you when you take to the links in the spring or sign up for a golf tournament and are wondering what the format is for play.

How to Book a Tee Time...

Booking a tee time is very important for the golfer.  Not only does it guarantee your start time to be as close to your tee time as possible but it also allows the golf course to know when they need personal in the Pro Shop and on course.

How to book a tee time:

1.      Call the golf course of your choosing and let them know you would like to book a tee time.

2.      You will then be asked what day and time you are hoping for.  Its important to note that most golf courses allow you to book 5-7 days in advanced so prime time tee times can be taking very quickly so if you don’t get exactly what you are looking for you will know for next time that you need to book sooner.

3.      After time and date have been selected you will need to let them know how many players will be playing on that day.

4.      You will then be asked for name and possible a credit card number to hold your spot.

5.      Please remember to let the golf course know if you will be needing power carts for your round.

6.      Between booking your tee time and the day before your round be sure to call the Pro Shop to let them know if you have any cancellations.

The BEST Sunglasses....For Golfers...

Today’s post is featured around my all-time favourite company that sells sunglasses.  I hope you enjoy learning about the technology that goes into these glasses and the lady who convinced me to purchase four pairs of them.

Sundog states on their website: “There is an amazing amount of science behind sunglasses and we are very proud of our efforts to distill the science into the sun protection for you. Beyond the frame style that compliments and completes your look, it’s really about the lenses. We’re passionate about styling but driven to offer the very best protection for your vision.”   

They have two types of lenses available the polycarbonate and melanin lenses.  The polycarbonate lenses provide strong protection from the harmful light.  The Melanin is a “photo-protection” from sunlight damage.  They focus in on the dangerous blue light that most competitors don’t take into consideration with their only focus on Ultraviolet A and B lights.  Blue light exposure has been proven to be a key factor in Age Related Macular Degeneration. 

 They have a wide variety of athletes who are sponsored by Sundog from Fishing, Running and of course golf.  Paula Creamer joined Sundog many years ago and they: “are blessed for many reasons, none the least of which is our relationship with Paula Creamer. A gifted athlete, focused competitor, a fantastic personality, successful business person, and a fashion goddess who contributes to the design of her own sun-glass collection. Paula is our definition of a “genuine performer” and we are so thankful. 

Paula has worked closely with them to design her Paula Creamer line which I have four pairs of.  These sunglasses are the best I have come across for both golf but also driving.  Instead of taking off your sunglasses when it gets foggy outside you will want to keep these on because they cut the glare down.  I would recommend these glasses to any person because they are a great price point, unique looking and have the technology behind them. They are sold in the Pro Shop at Goderich Sunset Golf Club.

Toronto Golf Club's Very Own....

 Toronto Golf Club’s very own General Manager and COO stops by on today’s blog to answer a few questions about his take on why he choose the golf industry, favourite golf course, favourite PGA players and more.  I am honoured that my Uncle John took the time to be interviewed.  He has defiantly left his mark in the Golf Industry and has had so many opportunities worldwide to grow the game of golf.  I am so proud of him and look up to him immensely. My goal going forward is to somehow be included on his next golf trip…see final answer of interview.

What made you choose to be in the Golf Industry?

 I was attracted to the golf industry initially due to my love for the great outdoors and affection for the game of golf.  I grew-up playing as a Junior at Whispering Hills Golf Club in Hanover, Ontario but never thought I would carve-out a career in the golf industry.  I’ve been very fortunate enough over the years to be afforded some incredible opportunities to work in the industry both in the golf course maintenance and club management areas.  I choose to remain in the industry as it’s very enjoyable to spend time with people who really ‘want’ to be at their clubs.  It’s gratifying to be able to help people enjoy all the benefits that the game has to offer.  The industry itself has a terrific community of individuals and families who enjoy their trade.  Who wouldn’t want their office in this environment?

What was your first job in the Golf Industry?

 Working on the greens staff at Saugeen Golf Club in Port Elgin, Ontario during the summer of 1988.  I worked 25 hours a day for my boss, Gary Gravett.....and survived.  Spent my fair share of time on the end of a weed-eater then graduated onto cutting greens and night-time watering of the course.  I couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed it and decided to embark on a career in the industry.

What was your favourite class in College / University?

 

Turfgrass Management at the University of Guelph.  Dr. Jack Eggens really caught my attention as he pontificated endlessly about the various types of turfgrasses on golf courses throughout North America.  He was a dynamic professor who was passionate about the horticultural industry in Canada.

What was the best advice you were given for your golf game?

 

Leave the course in better condition than you found it.  It’s not the responsibility of the golf course maintenance staff to repair your divots and rake the bunkers after you.  It’s a game of honour and integrity and one must respect the environment in which the game is played.

What is your top 3 favourite golf course and why?

  

1. Royal County Down, Newcastle, Northern Ireland – those who have been there know why it’s considered by many to be the best golf course in the world.  I couldn’t wait to get to the next tee – an unforgettable links experience overlooking Dundrum Bay.  If you go, you must stay at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa – very memorable.  2.  Royal Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland – a true test of golf (two courses) in a spectacular setting on the coast.  Designed by Harry Colt – say no more.  3.  The Toronto Golf Club, a pure golf experience like no other in North America.  3rd oldest golf club in North America and recently renovated by Dr. Martin Hawtree from the United Kingdom.  In my view, one of the best private golf clubs in the world.

What do you feel are the benefits of playing a Par 3 Executive Golf Course?

 

Excellent area to work on your short game, very fun to play and you don’t need the same time commitment as 18 holes. It’s perfect for after work or for a couple of hours on a weekend.  Much more relaxed as well...it’s a great place to bring the ‘non-golfing’ type for an introduction to the game in a non-threatening environment.

Who is your favourite player on the PGA?

 Mike Weir.  Although he’s past his prime, the Master’s win was unforgettable for all Canadians.

 Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

 

Playing more golf!

Both your children play golf if you could give them and any other children a golf related tip what would it be? 

Relax and have fun – it’s just a game and even the pros can’t get it right every day.  It’s a game for life.  You will see some of the most beautiful properties in the world if you enjoy the game of golf.

Where do you hope is your next golf related trip?

 

Trump International Golf Club, Aberdeen, Scotland.  Designed by Dr. Martin Hawtree.