PGA Merchandise Show: Finding My Way

GOING TO A NEW EVENT can be a logistical challenge: flying on a bad weather day, missing a tight connection (in Atlanta, of course), figuring out how to get out of the rental car parking garage (lame, I know), and finding my hotel in Kissimmee at midnight. Stuff like that.

Nonetheless, after a long hike across a mammoth parking area at the Orange County Convention Center, I set foot in the 2009 PGA Merchandise Show at 10 a.m. The demise of golf - like the demise of everything - is being widely reported, but it�s not in evidence here.

Here�s an outline of my first day at the show:

10:30 a.m. � After checking in at the media room, I head out onto the exhibition floor and wander aimlessly for 45 minutes. It�s like one of those giant Las Vegas casinos - it just keeps going and going and going.

11:15 a.m. � I stop by Laser Link Golf and introduce myself to Walker Inman Jr., a former tour pro who works for the company. I�ve talked to Walker on the phone; he was one of Jack Fleck�s pals on tour in the mid 1950s. Walker was the first Augusta native to play in the Masters. His dad was in the same Georgia Tech fraternity as Bobby Jones. (Yeah, that Bobby Jones.) Walker can remember the first time he met Jones like it was yesterday, which was actually about 70 years ago.

12:00 p.m. � I introduce myself to Gary Van Sickle, senior golf writer for Sports Illustrated. We talk about the changing media landscape. He probably hates me because I�m a blogger. (I�m kidding.) Seriously, print is dying and, like many people, he wonders where it�s all heading.

1:15 p.m. � I have a front row seat at an hour-long forum with Annika Sorenstam. We all know this, but she is the genuine article. (I�ll write about the Annika time in a separate post.)

2:30 p.m. � I�m a fly on the wall while several people chat up Jules Alexander, the famous golf photographer whose black and white shots of Ben Hogan are legendary. I finally get a chance to introduce myself and get his permission to run a photo with a story on him at the blog. The coolest 82-year-old cat you�ll meet.

3:15 p.m. � I�m back in the media room shooting the breeze with media people and Jeremy Friedman of the Golf Channel. The Golf Channel will preview Uneven Fairways, a documentary on the Negro leagues of pro golf, on Friday afternoon. It's golf history, a favorite subject of mine. Plus it's free popcorn and soft drinks. I�m there.

More to come.

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
Top 10 Tips for PGA Merchandise Show

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Bad economy = sucks for professional golf

The bad economy produced another casualty: Ginn has stopped its sponsorship of all golf tournaments (LPGA + Champions) and Cristie Kerr, its one sponsored player. More here

Unfortunately, I don't think Ginn will be the last to exit golf. Golf is perceived as a luxury, and, in this economy, it's the first thing that's on the list of cutting costs. Buick axed Tiger Woods. So it can happen to anyone.

If I were PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem, I would immediately scrap the $10 million escrow payouts for the poorly hatched FedEx Cup playoff series.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Europe chooses Colin Montgomerie as Ryder Cup captain

The captains have been selected. Corey Pavin for the U.S., and now Colin Montgomerie for the Euros. Both were stellar Ryder Cup players. Montgomerie ranks second only to Nick Faldo in total Ryder Cup points. Monty was quick to point out his record against Pavin: "I've played Corey Pavin in the Ryder Cup on three occasions, and coming out on top twice.

Excellent choice for the Euros. I'm a little bit surprised Monty, who will be 47 in 2010, wouldn't want to try playing one last time. Monty is kind of a monster in Ryder Cup play, something he hasn't been able to attain in the majors. More.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

GOLF: The musical

Never thought golf would become the subject of a musical. But we just got this message from www.tex-arts.org talking about golf and sex in a musical:

This April and May we are doing a professional production of GOLF: The Musical. It's an adult-witty, hilarious Off-Broadway musical that exhausts every quirky term, unique cliche and double entendre that you could possibly think of relating to Golf, life, Golf, love, Golf, sex, Golf, marriage, Golf, politics - well, really, when it comes right down to it - GOLF, PERIOD!

GOLF: The Musical show dates are as follows:
Opening Thursday April 23rd 7:30pm
Running Thurs, Fri, Sat, and two shows on Sundays
23rd: 7:30pm, 24th: 7:30pm, 25th: 7:30pm, 26th: 2pm and 7pm
Show times are the same throughout the run.
30th, May 1st, 2nd, 3rd & May 7th, 8th, 9th and closing on May 10th.

Ticket prices are as follows:
Cocktail seating BYOB @ $40 (PLEASE NOTE: You are able to bring your own alcohol and cups. Nothing will be provided. NO GLASS will be allowed in the theatre. NO FOOD will be allowed in the theatre.)*
Front Row seating @ $34, and General rows 2-4 @ $30.
For groups of 10 or more there is a 10% off the total sale, and groups of 30 or more: 15%.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Top 10 Tips for PGA Merchandise Show

I WAS INCREDIBLY FORTUNATE in recent days to connect with Gail Billingsley, the former Director of Marketing for PGA Golf Exhibitions. Among other golf-related activities, Gail developed and launched the Golf Demo Day and worked on the development and launch of Play Golf America Days with PGA Magazine. Gail now serves as the Executive Director of the YMCA at Virginia Tech University.

I asked Gail for her advice as I made preparations to attend my first PGA Merchandise Show.

�Neil, you are truly in for a treat!� Gail wrote. �There is nothing in the world like the PGA Merchandise Show.�

Below, with Gail�s permission, I share her top 10 list for the show:

1. Wear comfortable shoes. No matter how ugly, wear the single most comfortable shoes that you can. There are over 12 miles of aisles at the PGA Merchandise Show and you will cover them more than once.

2. Go to Demo Day. If you can go to the Demo Day at Orange National prior to the show, do it! The atmosphere is very different than the show and people are very chatty out at the range. It can be cold in the morning, but there are fewer folks there then. You�ll get a rare chance to hit clubs from newer manufacturers that you�ll usually never get to touch - and many of them are sweeter than those of the major manufacturers, but they have less marketing power.

3. Take the shuttle. Parking is awful.

4. Meet Sherry Major. Make sure to introduce yourself to Sherry Major in the PR/Media Room. Give her a hug for me. Sherry is an incredible source of golf info throughout the year. But, at the show, she really knows what is hot and what is new.

5. Read the show magazine. The show magazine is well done and Rick is good about featuring smaller, up-and-coming companies. I would pick up a copy each day.

6. Have a plan. Biggest piece of advice - go with a plan. Seriously, or you will waste so much time, you won't know where the day goes. Two ways you can do that. Go online and check out the layout of the show. Divvy it up into different periods of the day. Carry a notebook or the show directory and make active notes. While I know you are media, not a buyer, one of the most consistent pieces of advice from the top buyers was disciplining themselves to have a �map� each morning of what they expected to cover, and spending at least an hour each night reviewing what they had seen and then revisiting key companies on the last day.

7. Visit range and accessory people. The range and golf course accessory folks at the show don't always get much attention, but when it comes down to it, their products can make or ruin a good game of golf. I played at a course once with no yardage markers, no ball washers, no benches, nothing that just made the game a bit more enjoyable. It was eye-opening.

8. Drink lots of water. The air in the Convention Center is very dry and dehydration is a real problem that most folks don't realize until they leave.

9. Eat at local dives. Ask locals about their favorite hangouts and go there ... unless you like the crush of people that comes with the �tourist� restaurants. We really used to have fun going to local dives. Some wonderful food.

10. Enjoy!

I leave tomorrow. I better get to work on that plan.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Pat Perez wins 1st PGA tourney at Bob Hope Classic

Steve Stricker had a 3 shot lead at the start of the day, but had a complete meltdown shooting + 5, with a quadruple bogey on the card. OK, we have to give some credit to Stricker. He shot 61 and 62. It's really hard to go low 3 days straight. That opened the door for Pat Perez, who finally got the monkey off his back with an eagle on the final hole.

Double P is 32 years old. The Golf Blog is so happy for Pat, and expect even bigger things to come from him.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Natalie Gulbis with Cristie Kerr

Nat looks tall. Click here for the full pic

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Win McMurry recaps Bob Hope won by Pat Perez

Pat Perez stuffs it on 18 to seal the deal.



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Phil Mickelson Comes Out of Hibernation

Wedge man Phil Mickelson returns to work this week.
(Jim Epler/Flickr)

WITH THE ARIZONA CARDINALS in the Super Bowl and the FBR Open at TPC Scottsdale, it�s sure to be a raucous weekend in the Phoenix area. World No. 4 Phil Mickelson is set to make his 2009 season debut in an FBR Open field that includes 99 of the top 125 players on the PGA Tour money list.

�Phil, of course, is our largest draw,� Phoenix Thunderbirds chairman John Felix told The Arizona Republic, �but we have a lot of other great players who will have a significant impact with our crowd.�

Lefty is a two-time winner of the event. Last year he lost to J.B. Holmes in a playoff.

So, what�s up with Phil carrying all those wedges (including five at Colonial, where he won)? Here�s how he explained it at Callaway Golf:

�My scoring takes place around the greens,� Lefty said, �so I want to have as many options as possible to tackle the different lies and the different shots that we encounter in some of these conditions.�

This will be Phil�s 20th appearance at the Phoenix-area tour stop, where he�s always been a fan favorite. We�ll soon find out if that fan love and those clever wedges translate to a strong season opener for the left-handed one.

Mickelson File
Turned pro: 1992
Birthplace: San Diego, CA
College: Arizona State University
World ranking: 4
PGA Tour wins: 34
Major wins: 3
Teacher: Butch Harmon
Equipment: Callaway

-The Armchair Golfer

Brought to you by The World of Golf and ARMCHAIR GOLF STORE.

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Natalie Gulbis @ yoga

Click here for the full photo

This must have been taken on a camera phone.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Steve Stricker shoots 62 after 61 to go -33 at Bob Hope

Someone forgot to tell Steve Stricker that Pat Perez was on his way to win his 1st PGA tournament. Stricker opened up a 3 shot lead over Perez after shooting 62 today. It's hard to go low after going low, but Stricker managed to shoot 61 and 62 in 2 days. Wow. Double P needs to go low tomorrow if he wants to win.

Leaderboard

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Win McMurry recaps 1st round of Bob Hope

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

59?

The scores at the PGA West course at La Quinta have been LOW. Steve Stricker posted a 61, as did Charlie Wi today. Double P Pat Perez posted that score on Monday. With a 2 full rounds left, can someone post the magical 59?

I believe the last time someone did it on the PGA Tour was David Duval, at the same tournament.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Natalie Gulbis @ Annika Sorenstam's wedding

Click here for the full photo

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Win McMurry recaps Bob Hope Round 2 + Pat Perez -20

Shot of the day = hole in one by amateur:



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Is Pat Perez the next Kenny Perry?

Pat Perez is 32 years old. He hasn't won on the PGA Tour yet. He's leading the Bob Hope, and, if God willing, he may win on Sunday. He's got game, but hasn't gotten the monkey off his back.

Perez has to hope that his career will resemble Perry's. Kenny Perry, that is. Kenny Perry was 31 years old when he won his first tournament, but didn't really blossom until a few more years later and into his 40s. Now, Perry has 12 PGA wins. Not too shabby.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Is Pat Perez unconscious? Sets PGA record at -20 in 2 days

Pat Perez followed his 11-under par with a 9-under, which equals 20-under in 2 days. That, folks, is a new PGA record, erasing Tiger Woods's previous record. Double P has never won a PGA event, although everyone knows he's got game. Let's hope he pulls this one out. Go PP!!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Birmingham Golfer Wins �First Off the Tee� Drawing

CONGRATULATIONS TO SCOTT STONE, winner of the free drawing for First Off the Tee: Presidential Hackers, Duffers and Cheaters from Taft to Bush, a bestselling book on America�s golfing presidents by Don Van Natta Jr. Scott will receive an autographed copy of First Off the Tee (in hardcover), along with a personal note from the author.

(Note: Don�s next book, Wonder Girl, is a biography of Babe Didrikson Zaharias, a 20th-century phenom in three sports: golf, basketball and track and field.)

Meet the Winner

Scott is the CFO of a software company. He started a golf blog, Bushwood Country Club, last fall.

�I've been playing golf for about 15 years,� Scott wrote in an email.

�I started playing as a result of a mandatory corporate outing. My first tee shot went over the roof of a condo building and missed a lady walking her poodle by about three feet. I was immediately hooked on the game, and have played steadily since then. For most of the year, I get to play one to two times per week and am a 10 handicapper.�

Favorite golf memories: Attending the 1999 Masters and 2008 Ryder Cup
Favorite golf courses: Shoal Creek Country Club (just down the street from my house) and the Lake Course at the Olympic Club
Favorite pro golfers: Hunter Mahan and Paula Creamer

Thanks to all who entered. There will be more free drawings in the near future, so keep coming back.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Follow The Golf Blog on twitter

We're now on Twitter. You can follow us by clicking here.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

California swing: Pat Perez makes an appearance with 61

The Bob Hope Classic hosted by Arnold Palmer officially opened up the California swing of the PGA season. And it looks like the course at PGA West (Palmer) was playing easy.

Pat Perez shot 61, 11-under. Mike Weir and Bubba Watson shot 62.

Leaderboard

I think Pat Perez has never actually won a PGA event. Maybe this will be his week. He seemed like he had a load of talent, but the mental game and injuries later seemed to derail him.



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Credit Crunch Hits Open

The credit crunch has finally caught up with British golf after it was announced that the English Open golf championship has been postponed for at least two years after developers at the host Cornish course ran into financial difficulties.
After a 14 year absence the event was set to return to the European Tour in [...]

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[Source: Golf Blog]

Q&A: Paula Creamer

Paula Creamer is all smiles. (LPGA Tour)

AS ANNIKA SORENSTAM RETIRES, there are still many bright spots for the LPGA Tour. The ebullient Paula Creamer is certainly one of them. The Pink Panther won four times in 2008 and contended in the majors with three top 10s. No. 3 in the Rolex Women�s World Golf Rankings, Paula answered questions from ARMCHAIR GOLF in a recent email exchange.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What's your outlook for 2009? Are you making any significant changes?

PAULA CREAMER: I am really excited about this year. I'm working my tail off this off season and I hope the results will show it! I will be using a new TaylorMade driver, the Limited, and also a new Precept ball.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: How do you prepare for a new golf season?

PAULA CREAMER: Practice, work out, proper nutrition, lots of work on my short game. In golf, that's really where the strokes come off the scorecard.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What part of your game needs the most work?

PAULA CREAMER: I like to address all parts of my game, but I'm really concentrating a lot of time with my coach, David Whelan, on my short game and on the greens.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: How many events do you plan to play in 2009? Any favorites on the schedule?

PAULA CREAMER: I will probably have my regular number of events, somewhere between 23 and 27. Any place where I've won previously is a definite favorite!

ARMCHAIR GOLF: You really looked like you were ready to break through and win a major last year, especially at the U.S. Women's Open. What did you learn that will help you get that first major win?

PAULA CREAMER: I learned that round four of a major is really not too much different than rounds one through three. I didn't keep to my game plan in the '08 US Women's Open for the final round. That won't happen again!

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What do you think the LPGA Tour will be like without Annika?

PAULA CREAMER: It will be strange not seeing her week in, week out, but I have a feeling she won't be retired forever. I think we'll be seeing her again at some point. The tour is deeper than ever and I think it will continue to move forward. When Nancy Lopez retired I assume people were concerned, but look how far the tour has come since.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What will you miss most about her?

PAULA CREAMER: I like her work ethic and her overall dedication to her game.

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What's it like living at Isleworth?

PAULA CREAMER: I really enjoy what little time I have at home. The golf course and practice facilities are perfect � and so close to home!

ARMCHAIR GOLF: What's your best advice for amateur golfers?

PAULA CREAMER: Practice your short game as much as the long game and don't get down on yourself if things go south. This game can drive anyone crazy at any level. Have fun!! After all, you're lucky in that you can talk trash with your buddies and get away with it.

SHORT SHOTS

Most trusted club in your bag:
PAULA CREAMER: All 14, thanks to TaylorMade!

Favorite sport other than golf:
PAULA CREAMER: Tennis, but the WTA has nothing to fear on my going pro in that sport.

Favorite sports teams:
PAULA CREAMER: San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Athletics and Boston Celtics.

Favorite new fashion or golf accessories:
PAULA CREAMER: Wow, great question but not a quick-answer item. The new Adidas apparel I'll be wearing looks great! I saw the full line when I visited the Adidas offices back in December. I'm also pleased with the way my 2009 Paula Creamer Collection of sunglasses came out. As always, Sundog did a terrific job with this year's line. I also have some special accessory pieces that I will unveil this year.

What frustrates you:
PAULA CREAMER: When people don't do simple things like say �please� and �thank you.� I mean, how hard is that?

What makes you smile:
PAULA CREAMER: Wow, what doesn't make me smile? I like to smile a lot.

-The Armchair Golfer

Special thanks to Jay Burton of IMG World for coordinating this interview. This Paula Creamer Q&A is brought to you by The World of Golf.

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Stylin� with Ian Poulter in Orlando

Ian Poulter plays through in London.
(Photo: Campbell-Bell)

IAN POULTER SHOWED ME a lot last year. After the cover story in which he said it will be just me and Tiger, the Englishman played his plaid pants off. I was impressed.

A nice finish at The Open Championship helped earn Poulter a much-debated Ryder Cup team captain�s pick from Nick Faldo. Then �Poults� tore it up at Valhalla, posting a 4-1-0 record for the European team.

I�m going to the PGA Merchandise Show next week in Orlando, and Ian�s people sent me an invitation:

�Join Ian Poulter as he hosts a fashion show to launch his next Ian Poulter Design Collection.�

Style is not in my tool kit. Like a lot of guys, I get by. Barely. Maybe I�ll join Ian. All I have to do is RSVP. There�s also this:

�We will also have a small amount of interview time with Ian in the afternoon�.�

I�d love to ask Ian something about golf even though he�s there to talk about his new design collection. I�ll let you know how it turns out.

-The Armchair Golfer

GOLF BRIEFS

(As a service to readers, following are golf events, products, services and more. Endorsement is not implied.)

PGA Merchandise Show

Here's a little advance mention for all the folks who've emailed me.

The Wishbone Grip and Method, Booth #3789.
The True Ympact Swing Trainer, Booth #1788.
The g-glove golf club grip protector, Booth #2720.
Eyeline Golf Pendulum Putting Rod, Booth #2075.
The Mibrella UV golf umbrella, Booth #5485.
Paul Azinger will play Bionic Gloves and make a video appearance at the show, Room 312A.
GOLO Golf Dice Game, Booth #4277.
The Plane Perfect Golf Machine, Booth #1687.
Nif Tee Seat golf seat cover, Booth #3890.
PowerBilt�s Air Force Drivers, featuring Fuzzy Zoeller, Room 312C.
Graphite Design will host a long drive contest at Demo Day.
Strength and Conditioning Coach �Joey D� will be outside the PGA Tour Fitness Trailer, as well as Booths #4977 and #1988.
Pro Tee, Booth #3036.
Drivemate Pro, Booth #1395.
iGolf�s GPS Technology, Booth #3701.
AHEAD, Booth #5377.
Glove It, Booth #5557.
TrackMan, Booth #1594.
Vicarious Golf, Booth #2109.
Club Designer Jesse Ortiz will offer equipment demonstrations at Hitting Bay ETC40.
Quagmire Golf will be also be at the show.

Other Briefs

Mike Bruno is the creator of 5 Minutes to Tee-Time (www.5minutestotee-time.com), a golf warm-up aid.
John Reese has launched www.FreeGolfandMore.com.
The new Kodak Challenge (www.kodakchallenge.com) on the PGA Tour is underway.
Charlie King, a GOLF Magazine Top 100 Instructor, has written a book called �You�re NOT Lifting Your Head.� Free download at www.reynoldsgolfacademy.com.
Gimme Golf is launched at www.gimmegolf.com.
Par Bar (www.sunnyvalleybar.com) is a new nutrition bar for golfers.
Pat O�Brien, coach for Zach Johnson and Vaughn Taylor, has launched www.patobriengolf.com.
100 new products at www.bogeypro.com.
Free and affordable 2009 golf programs at www.playgolfamerica.com.
Devant has unveiled the 2009 Sir Christopher Hatton Golf Towel line at www.devantsporttowels.com.
Life coach Jim Fannin (www.jimfannin.com) is bullish on tour player Matthew Goggin.
The Cliffs at Keowee Springs, a Tom Fazio course, was named one of the top 10 best new private courses by GOLF Magazine.

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Win McMurry recaps Sony Open

Shots of the week:



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Eisenhower Wins PGC in Sudden-Death Playoff

BY HOLING A 40-INCH PAR PUTT on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff, Dwight Eisenhower conquered his putting demons to upset top seed John F. Kennedy on Sunday in the Presidents Golf Championship (PGC) at Augusta National Golf Club. It was a redemptive stroke for Ike, who had three-putted the 18th hole to allow Kennedy to even the match and send it to extra holes.

�I thought I had lost it on the low side,� Eisenhower said of the match-clinching putt, �but it caught the edge and fell in, thankfully.�

JFK bunkered his approach on the 10th, the first playoff hole. The 35th president left his long bunker shot well short and his uphill 18-foot par putt stopped inches shy of the hole. Ike played his third shot from the depression in front of the sloping green, a nifty pitch and run that rolled to within throw-up range for the general, who backed away twice before nervously jabbing his Titleist into the cup.

How Ike Prevailed

Eisenhower was clearly the underdog, and many on hand were shocked that the match had gotten away from the youthful, athletic Kennedy, who had dominated his opponents in earlier matches.

Theories abounded. JFK was overconfident. He was tired. His chronically bad back ached from too much golf in recent days. Or, as one Kennedy aide suggested with a wink, JFK was distracted by the many attractive spectators in the large gallery.

Perhaps the most reasonable explanation for Eisenhower�s upset victory was that the old general knew the ground better than his opponent. A longtime member, Ike had recorded more than 100 rounds at Augusta National. The former Commander of Allied Forces knew his way around the former tree nursery. He also knew his own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of his opponent, and he put that knowledge to work.

�In match play, I really felt like I had a chance against him,� Eisenhower said, �especially here.�

Angry Loser

Kennedy shrugged off the defeat. �That�s golf,� he said. �What can you expect? Ike had a good day. He knows where to hit it around this place.�

Onlookers knew better. Under his smooth veneer, JFK was furious that the rival he had labeled �duffer-in-chief� and once called �that old asshole� had bested him. Sometimes the wrong man wins, Kennedy thought, whether in politics or golf.

Ike thought the same thing, and was glad it didn�t happen on Sunday.

TOURNAMENT RECAP

Final
#2 Eisenhower defeats #1 Kennedy, 1-up (19 holes)

Semifinals
#1 Kennedy defeats #13 Nixon, 10 and 8
#2 Eisenhower defeats #3 Ford, 3 and 1
Summary

Quarterfinals
#1 Kennedy defeats #8 Obama, (match score not disclosed)
#13 Nixon defeats #5 George H.W. Bush, 1-up
#2 Eisenhower defeats #7 Clinton, 9 and 7
#3 Ford defeats #6 George W. Bush, 4 and 3
Summary

Opening Matches
#1 Kennedy defeats #16 Grant, 10 and 8
#8 Obama defeats #9 Reagan, 1-up
#5 George H.W. Bush defeats #12 Wilson, 4 and 2
#13 Nixon defeats #4 Roosevelt, 2 and 1
#6 George W. Bush defeats #11 Taft, 5 and 4
#3 Ford defeats #14 Johnson, 6 and 5
#7 Clinton defeats #10 Harding, 1-up
#2 Eisenhower defeats #15 Coolidge, 9 and 7
Summary

Special Thanks
Special thanks to New York Times investigative reporter and bestselling author Don Van Natta for his expert commentary as the guest golf analyst. No one is better qualified. Don't miss your last chance to enter the free drawing (at above right) for an autographed copy of Don's book on America's golfing presidents, First Off the Tee.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Zach Johnson wins by 2; Tadd Fujikawa falters in final round, tying for 32nd

Zach Johnson won the Sony Open in a duel with playing partner David Toms, who finished tied for second with Adam Scott (who was caught on the beach last week playing with Kate Hudson, who he says is just a friend). Charles Howell III (hairier and bulkier) three putted the last hole to slip to fourth.

18 year old high school sensation Tadd Fujikawa shot a 3-over par 73, to finish tied for 32nd. Still a great showing.

Leaderboard

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods speaks about dad at Obama "We are one" celebration

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Natalie Gulbis update on Twitter

It seems that Natalie Gulbis really likes Twittering. Here's her latest Tweet:

"During practice I will hit anywhere from 50 - 500 depends if I am making swing changes..I work on shots under 100 yards endlessly."

You can follow Nat by clicking here.

Click here for a great photo of Nat

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Kate Hudson in a bikini in Hawaii with Adam Scott

Wow. Popsugar has some smokin' hot photos of actress Kate Hudson in a bikini with Adam Scott, while the two were in Hawaii last week. Adam flashes his guns, while Kate flashes a lot of herself as well.

Click here for the photos

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Can 18 year old high school senior Tadd Fujikawa win the Sony Open today?

He is the smallest player at the Sony Open, at 5 foot 1 inch. He is also the youngest, at 18 years old. He is the only high school player in the field. And he had to qualify by playing the Monday qualifier. Yet Tadd Fujikawa shot the low round of Saturday, 8-under 62, and now is only 2 shots behind leader Zach Johnson.

OK. Tadd, who is from Hawaii, is basically playing his home course at Waialae Country Club. But still. C'mon. An 18 year old high school senior shooting a 62 at a PGA event? Let's get real. This is so incredible! I remember I was playing high school matches in high school. The thought of someone from high school playing on the PGA tour and winning is almost unimaginable today. If Tadd can pull off a miracle today, he would be the youngest ever to win a PGA event. Other than Tiger Woods winning the Grand Slam this year and tying Jack's record, I'm not sure you can find a bigger story in golf for 2009 if Tadd wins. Wow. Go Tadd!!!!

(Too bad the NFL playoffs and Inauguration concert will be going on as well. Another reason to start the PGA season later in February or March.)





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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Is Tiger Woods joining the Obama Administration?

Not yet, but Tiger Woods has agreed to be a part of President Obama's Inauguration Sunday ceremonies at the Lincoln Memorial, where there will be a "We are One" celebration broadcast on HBO.

If we were thinking about what position Tiger could fill in the Administration, where would you put him? My vote would be Secretary of Commerce.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Paul Casey Wins Abu Dhabi Championship

Later, ball. Paul Casey tees off at Torrey. (SD Dirk/Flickr)

PAUL CASEY SAW A SIX-SHOT LEAD evaporate to just one stroke at the Abu Dhabi Championship but hung on to edge Louis Oosthuizen and defending champion Martin Kaymer.

It was Casey�s first win in two years, hard to believe for a guy with so much talent. Casey said he has been concentrating a lot on majors and that it may have hurt him in regular events. I saw him at the Ryder Cup and expect him to be a top player for years to come. He�s only 31 and was recently married.

Here�s a snippet from the post-tournament media conference:

Q. How much is this win a weight off your shoulders and also how much of a boost is it to win so early in the new year?

PAUL CASEY: Well, it felt great two years ago to win so early and then I really didn't follow it up with anything. But it feels very different this time. As you said, a bit of a weight off my shoulders. It feels great. It feels like a payoff for all of the worrying I've put in, certainly recently, the past couple of months. It shows that marriage is clearly good for me.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Bonehead play of the year: Chad Campbell forgets to commit to play Sony Open, but flies out there anyway

Ooops. Chad Campbell didn't realize he didn't sign up to play the Sony Open until it was too late -- he had already flown 8 hours to Hawaii when he realized his mistake. So Campbell was not signed up to play the Sony, and had to turn around and fly back home. At least he got frequent flyer miles, we hope!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Sony Open begins today

Just caught some of the action at the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club. The winds are really blowing, and Geoff Ogilvy, who won last week, is tied for the lead.

I don't have HD. So does anyone else think The Golf Channel coverage looks kind of weird, almost like a cheap amateur home movie? I hope I'm not imagining things. I haven't quite figured it out, but I think the video quality looks different. Please comment.

Leaderboard

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Looking For More Distance?

Looking to get some extra distance off the tee? Then this could be one way to generate those extra yards






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[Source: Golf Blog]

Kennedy and Eisenhower Advance to PGC Final

JFK and Ike will square off in final. (Public Domain)

TOP SEEDS JOHN F. KENNEDY and Dwight Eisenhower will play for the title in the Presidents Golf Championship (PGC) at Augusta National Golf Club.

In semifinals action, No. 1 seed Kennedy easily defeated No. 13 seed Richard Nixon, the surprise player of the tournament with upsets of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and George H.W. Bush. No. 2 seed Eisenhower escaped with a win in the other semifinal when No. 3 seed Gerald Ford faltered after building a three-hole lead.

�I was fortunate to beat Ford,� Eisenhower admitted. �It was a tough match.�

Ike was asked if he had considered the possibility that his former vice president would upset Kennedy to gain a berth in the finals.

�No,� he replied. �Nixon loses to Kennedy, whether debates, elections, or golf. Now excuse me while I go practice my putting.�

EAGLE BRACKET

#1 Kennedy defeats #13 Nixon, 10 and 8
Summary: Tension enveloped the first tee like morning dew. John F. Kennedy was impassive, making Richard Nixon�s bravado seem more forced than ever. �Let�s see what you�ve got, Jack,� Nixon said while fidgeting with his head cover. Kennedy took his stance, addressed the Titlelist No. 1 marked with �JFK,� and made his smooth, athletic swing, sweeping the dimpled ball off its wooden peg to a lush green spot 250 yards down the 1st fairway. The match was over. Although he tried to hide it, it was written on Nixon�s face. For Nixon, the next three hours were a painful series of jerks and spasms while Kennedy played like a scout searching for hidden clues on Augusta�s expansive fairways and undulating greens. JFK knew his toughest match lay ahead. Nixon maintained his defiant posture when it was over. �I played better in the quarterfinals,� he said, a dark expression covering his face. Then he suddenly forced a smile, flashed his two-armed victory salute to no one in particular, and walked away.

FREEDOM BRACKET

#2 Eisenhower defeats #3 Ford, 3 and 1
Summary: There was a subdued quality to the day�s other semifinal. Both serious-minded men and intense competitors, Dwight Eisenhower and Gerald Ford went about their business on the golf course as if it were a cabinet meeting. For the first prolonged period during the matches, Ike�s putter completely deserted him. Meanwhile, Ford built a comfortable three-hole lead on the outward nine. Then things began to unravel at Amen Corner when Ford found the pond on 11 and Rae�s Creek on 12. Eisenhower caught Ford with a surprising birdie on the 13th hole, and by the time the pair reached the 16th tee Ike had a 1-up lead. Ford, who had never trailed in any of his matches, looked uncomfortable and indecisive. He chunked a delicate chip at 16 and sprayed his tee shot on 17 into the pines. Eisenhower closed out the match when he tapped in for par on the 17th green. The two men shook hands and Ike offered words of consolation. While gracious in defeat, Ford did not like to lose. He invited Ike to visit him in Palm Springs, where he knew he would have a much better chance to defeat the general.

The Final

Results of the final match will be published on Monday, January 19.

EAGLE BRACKET WINNER
#1 seed John F. Kennedy

versus

FREEDOM BRACKET WINNER
#2 seed Dwight Eisenhower

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
PGC Quarterfinals: Obama, Bushes and Clinton Eliminated
Nixon Upset Highlights Opening PGC Matches
The Goods on Barak Obama's Golf Game
Ulysses S. Grant Earns Final Spot in PGC Field
Presidents Golf Championship Adds Golf Analyst

Read More...

[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Will Tiger Woods play Torrey Pines/Buick Invitational?

Golf.com has a revealing look at the Buick Invitational's herculean efforts to get Tiger Woods to play this year (tournament starts Feb. 8).

We all know that Tiger loves Torrey Pines, having won there numerous times -- the last time was the last time Tiger played competitively, at last year's epic U.S. Open.

This is just further evidence of how crucial Tiger Woods is to the PGA Tour, and to their corporate sponsors. Commissioner Tim Finchem needs to realize this because he just doesn't seem to get it. As The Golf Blog has stated before, the entire PGA schedule should be revamped to maximize Tiger Woods's presence at a high majority of the tournaments. If that means some of the lower ranked players have to be shipped out to the Nationwide Tour, then so be it.

Oh, and one more thing. I don't think Tiger Woods will be playing this year at the Buick. Still too early from rehab. That's my guess.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Lorena Ochoa engaged

27 year old Lorena Ochoa is engaged to Andres Consesa, an exec for Aeromexico Airlines. Here's a photo of Lorena's fiance.

Congratulations, Lorena! Don't retire, though.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Corporate Crazy Golf

Who doesn�t love Crazy Golf? I was intrigued then when a company called Putterfingers announced today the release of their revolutionary new portable Crazy Golf (mini-golf) course.
With mini-golf already a huge sport on both the European and American continents, putterfingers.co.uk are now making it available to everyone in the UK, anywhere, both indoors and out. [...]

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[Source: Golf Blog]

Andy North makes predictions on Anthony Kim, Sergio Garcia, and 2009 season

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

PGC Quarterfinals: Obama, Bushes and Clinton Eliminated

Ike still in, Bush is out.
(Public Domain)





UNDER CLOUDY SKIES at Augusta National Golf Club, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Dwight Eisenhower and Gerald Ford advanced to the semifinals of the Presidents Golf Championship (PGC).

For No. 13 seed Nixon, it was the second consecutive upset - this time at the expense of George H.W. Bush - although he now faces political nemesis and tournament top seed Kennedy in the semifinals. When asked for his thoughts about his next opponent, JFK declined to comment.

The other semifinal will pit No. 2 seed Dwight Eisenhower against No. 3 seed Gerald Ford. Summaries of the quarterfinal matches are below, followed by the upcoming semifinal matches.

EAGLE BRACKET

#1 Kennedy defeats #8 Obama, (match score not disclosed)
Summary: While Obama�s political skills may remind some of JFK, his inconsistent golf game was no match for Kennedy�s, especially at Augusta. It was over early, and, by mutual agreement, the final match score was not disclosed so as to not embarrass the president-elect. Not only did Obama show respect for Kennedy�s golf game, he praised JFK�s skillful oratory. The pair spent much of the match discussing Obama�s inauguration speech as the president-elect sought a few pointers.

#13 Nixon defeats #5 George H.W. Bush, 1-up
Summary: Long shot Richard Nixon once again showed his resiliency and resolve, coming from three holes down on Augusta�s inward nine to upset George H.W. Bush. The rally began at the par-5 13th hole, where Nixon noticeably slowed down his play, which clearly infuriated the fast-playing Bush. The comeback was completed on the final hole when a rattled Bush three-putted for a double bogey and Nixon slapped a 20-foot bogey putt that raced across the green and dove into the cup. When asked about gamesmanship, Nixon�s reply sounded like a warning. �My opponents should know I play to win.�

FREEDOM BRACKET

#2 Eisenhower defeats #7 Clinton, 9 and 7
Summary: Ike was on his game and decimated an overmatched Bill Clinton in the day�s second-to-the-last pairing. The general had his game face on and was impervious to Clinton�s charm and golfing eccentricities (even when Clinton gave himself a potential hole-winning putt). The one bright spot for Clinton was an improbable ace on the par-3 6th hole. It was the only hole he won. Despite the lopsided match score, Clinton insisted he shot an 85. He signed autographs and chatted with spectators before climbing into a waiting limousine.

#3 Ford defeats #6 George W. Bush, 4 and 3
Summary: With most of the spectators following the Ike-Clinton match directly in front of them, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush played an amiable, uneventful match in relative solitude. Whether looking ahead to his semifinal match with Eisenhower or easing up on his erratic opponent, Ford dropped some holes on the final nine, which made the match appear to be closer than it was.

Semfinal Matches

Results of the following matches will be published on Thursday.

EAGLE BRACKET
#1 Kennedy vs. #13 Nixon

FREEDOM BRACKET
#2 Eisenhower vs. #3 Ford

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
Nixon Upset Highlights Opening PGC Matches
The Goods on Barak Obama's Golf Game
Ulysses S. Grant Earns Final Spot in PGC Field
Presidents Golf Championship Adds Golf Analyst

Read More...

[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Charlie Rose 2006 interview of Natalie Gulbis

There are only 2 LPGA players who have the potential to transform the LPGA to the next level of marketability: Michelle Wie is one, Natalie Gulbis is the other. So far, however, neither has been able to get over that hump in the way that Annika Sorenstam did. The good thing is that both are still young.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Sony Open starts today

KJ Choi is defending champion. Tournament is at Waialae Country Club in Hawaii. More here.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

American Idol for Golf?

American Idol just started its new season yesterday. This show, touted as the American Idol for Golf, aired in 2008 for junior golfers in the UK. I never heard of the show, but this video captures the entire season and the winner.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Recap of Mercedes Championship by PGA Monday Backspin

Anthony Kim nearly double eagles (Retief Goosen did abroad):



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Best Wishes, Annika

HALL OF FAMER ANNIKA SORENSTAM married Mike McGee on Saturday in Orlando. McGee, the manager of Annika�s business brand since 2006, is the son of former PGA Tour player Jerry McGee.

One hundred twenty-five guests attended the wedding ceremony and reception at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club.

8 Wedding Photos

The newlyweds will go on a honeymoon ski trip. In early February, Annika will play in a skins game with Lorena Ochoa, Paula Creamer and Natalie Gulbis.

-The Armchair Golfer

(Photo: Keith Allison/Flickr)

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Annika Sorenstam gets married

Fresh off her retirement, Annika Sorenstam married her manager Mike McGee (son of former PGA player Jerry McGee) in Orlando. Photos here. Annika looks beautiful, and happy. The LPGA, and we, will miss her.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

PGA Tour needs major changes -- starting at the top

1. Tiger Woods - no show. 2. Phil Mickelson - no show. 3. Paddy Harrington - no show. 4. Sergio Garcia - no show.

So what happens when 4 of the biggest names on the PGA Tour don't show up to the 1st PGA tournament of the year (and probably will never do so in the future given the early January date of the tournament)?

Well, you have a MAJOR problem, especially when one of those guys perenially absent is Tiger Woods. Mercedes reportedly is thinking about ending its sponsorship of the tournament because it just costs too much, especially when the A-list of players doesn't show. Can you blame Mercedes? I wouldn't ever sponsor a golf tournament if I knew Tiger Woods wouldn't show.

Meanwhile, PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem seems to be in a complete state of denial. He said, "the way we like to believe you will get better is to constantly challenge what you are doing and ask the question, 'Can you do it better? It doesn't necessarily mean we will do anything particularly different."

Not do anything different? Say what? Mr. Finchem, wake up. The overextended PGA season is not working. The high admission fees just to watch the PGA are not working. The $10 million escrow payouts to Tiger and Vijay for the poorly hatched FedEx Cup (a knockoff of the Nextel Cup in NASCAR) are not working. In these serious economic times, when most families are trying to make ends meet, the bloated excesses of the PGA Tour are jarring.

The only thing keeping the PGA Tour from a huge downturn itself is Tiger Woods. Yet Tiger doesn't like the early golf schedule, and he doesn't like the gimmicky FedEx Cup. For Tiger, it's about the majors and the tournaments with history. The PGA could learn a lesson by following what Tiger likes. The PGA doesn't need to be playing golf in January. Nor does it need a $10 million payout for the insignificant FedEx Cup. Concentrate on the storied tournaments, like the Memorial, Bay Hill, the Colonial. And use some of that $10 million to lower the admission fees so ordinary Americans can attend the events in these troubled economic times. If the Commissioner doesn't understand the need for a major change, then the PGA should consider a change at the top.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

2009 Majors

Here are some dates for the diaries, the four majors of 2009;
Can Harrington continue to build on his two successive majors at the close of 2008 or will Tiger�s comeback turn the tables?
The Masters, Augusta, 9-12 April
Defending champion: Trevor Immelman
The US Open, Bethpage, New York, 18-21 June
Defending champion: Tiger Woods
The Open, Turnberry, Scotland, 16-19 [...]

Read More...

[Source: Golf Blog]

Presidents Golf Championship: Quarterfinals Preview

Bill Clinton is a heavy underdog.

EIGHT PRESIDENTS ARE STILL ALIVE in the first annual Presidents Golf Championship (PGC) at Augusta National Golf Club. Guest golf analyst Don Van Natta filed the following previews of the upcoming matches.


EAGLE BRACKET

#1 Kennedy vs. #8 Obama
This is the Charisma Quarter-Final. No president looked as cool and comfortable on the links as JFK. Obama, despite his odd choice of cargo pants while playing during his Hawaii vacation, is a very close second. Both Kennedy and Obama rely on jocular attempts to unnerve opponents. JFK loves needling his playing partners as a way to intimidate them to play worse; Obama also engages in a bit of playful trash-talking. But the similarities between their golfing styles end there. Kennedy�s deadly accurate game will overwhelm Obama, whose wobbly long irons will spoil any chance for the pre-inaugural upset.
Prediction: Kennedy

#5 George H.W. Bush vs. #13 Nixon
Nixon�s stunning upset of FDR � and his supreme confidence, afterward � will carry him past George Herbert Walker Bush. At Bush�s best, he is capable of shooting in the high 80s, but he has a tendency to get rattled by cocky opponents who he should defeat. The pressure will be on �41� not just to beat Nixon but to crush him. But I predict that Nixon�s way of glowering at an opponent (especially during short putts) will unnerve Bush just enough for the darkest of presidential golf dark horses to take another unlikely step toward the final.
Prediction: Nixon

FREEDOM BRACKET

#2 Eisenhower vs. #7 Clinton
This one will be fun, if only because it will be interesting to see if Clinton�s carefree, on-course demeanor disrupts the old general�s equilibrium. Ike�s deadly serious game (he concentrates laser-like on getting the ball to behave) is so different from Clinton�s chatty, Billigans-enhanced style. Of course, no Billigan-taking is permitted in the PGC, and I would be stunned if Clinton manages to topple the mighty Ike, even if Ike�s putter doesn�t always cooperate.
Prediction: Eisenhower

#3 Ford vs. #6 George W. Bush
With their close seedings, you�d think this match could go down to the wire. Think again. Ford is a formidable No. 3 seed, and Bush is a shaky No. 6 seed. Despite his reputation for hitting spectators with golf balls, Ford has a disciplined, razor-sharp approach to shot-making. Bush�s habit of taking unnecessary risks will do him in. This one won�t be close.
Prediction: Ford

Results on Tuesday
Come back on Tuesday for the results of these matches and the march toward the final, which will be played the day before Inauguration Day.

Win an Autographed Copy of First Off the Tee!
Sign up for a chance to win a free autographed copy of Don Van Natta�s First Off the Tee: Presidential Hackers, Duffers and Cheaters from Taft to Bush, a New York Times bestseller and Sports Illustrated book of the year. Entry is at right under the brown box.

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
Nixon Upset Highlights Opening PGC Matches
The Goods on Barak Obama's Golf Game
Ulysses S. Grant Earns Final Spot in PGC Field
Presidents Golf Championship Adds Golf Analyst

Read More...

[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Is Kate Hudson dating Adam Scott?

Wow. Golf is reporting that Kate Hudson and Adam Scott are dating, and are together at Kapulua for the Mercedes Championship.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Geoff Ogilvy wins Mercedes, wire to wire

Geoff Ogilvy did his best to kill the Mercedes Championship for good by making it a noncontest this year. Ogilvy won wire to wire, and was never in doubt on the final day. Ogilvy finished at -24, 6 shots over Anthony Kim and Davis Love III.

Given how boring the tournament was, Golf.com's rumors that Mercedes won't sponsor the tournament in 2010 probably should be given some weight now. Thanks, Geoff!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Mercedes may leave; are PGA and Tim Finchem in deep trouble?

The Mercedes Championship is concluding today, and already Golf.com is spreading rumors that Mercedes may abandon the PGA in 2010 in part to save the $20 million sponsorship fees it might have to pay for the PGA tournament.

One of the big problems is that Phil Mickelson doesn't play this tournament, nor does Tiger Woods. Both have complained that the tournament is too early in the year and cuts into their family time during the holidays. This is just another sign that PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem has blundered with the over-expansion of the golf season that runs nearly non-stop.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

The New High-Def Golf Channel

(Photo courtesy of the Golf Channel)

WITH THE LAUNCH of its high definition (HD) channel, The Golf Channel is all spiffed up for the new golf year. Golf Channel HD and its standard definition channel will simulcast more than 100 tournaments in 2009.

�For the first time, Golf Channel HD viewers will be able to fully appreciate the stunning beauty of Hawaiian courses like at Kapalua and Turtle Bay or at Scotland's Loch Lomond,� Golf Channel President Page Thompson said in a statement.

This is great news for golf viewers. That guy in the above photo sure looks happy about it.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Europe Trail In Royal Trophy

Asia hold a commanding 3-1 lead over Europe after day one as they bid for their first Royal Trophy victory.
Keep up to date with the latest scores here.


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[Source: Golf Blog]

Phil Mickelson Man Boobs Authority?

I've read that search engines account for more than half of all internet traffic. It's not surprising to me since that's where most of the traffic to this site originates.

What is surprising are some of the search terms that return this site. One of the most popular terms is "Phil Mickelson Man Boobs." I kid you not. I don't know what is stranger - that so many people are searching for information on this topic or that search engines have deemed this site as one of its best sources of information.

Out of curiosity, I Googled "Phil Mickelson Man Boobs" to check out where this site would turn up. Lo and behold, Grouchy Golf was at the top of the search results!

Phil's dopey plastered-on smirk has been fodder for several posts on this site, but there's been nothing that addressed his growing chest problem. There has got to be better information on the internet for people researching Phil's busty assets. Unfortunately, after clicking on some of the other search results, I realized that there was simply a dearth of material on this titillating topic.

Sensing an unsatisfied need by the general public, I was determined to fill that need. After some in-depth research, I found the answers straight from the horse's mouth:

I will always have fat on me. There's nothing I can do about it, just genetics. As I said earlier, I've got subcutaneous fat. And most people who are ripped have visceral. There's nothing I can do it. It just lies underneath the skin as opposed to underneath the muscle. And as long as I feel better and get stronger, then I can't really worry about, you know, body fat.

- Phil Mickelson

There you have it folks. The reason for Phil's full figure is subcutaneous fat. But blaming genetics? Mr. FIGJAM must have been adopted because his immediate family � mom, dad, brother and sister � are all thin. Regardless, this site is proud to provide the best information on the topic of "Phil Mickelson Man Boobs". We will be sure to keep you abreast of any future developments!

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[Source: Grouchy Golf Blog]

Nixon Upset Highlights Opening PGC Matches

ALL BUT ONE OF THE FAVORITES advanced in the opening matches of the first annual Presidents Golf Championship (PGC) at Augusta National Golf Club. In a stunning upset in the Eagle Bracket, No. 13 seed Richard Nixon defeated No. 4 seed Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

�No, I�m not surprised I won,� Nixon said. �People have counted me out before. I guess I showed them again.�

Top seeds John F. Kennedy and Dwight Eisenhower cruised to victory on an overcast day at Augusta. Summaries of the opening matches are below, followed by a listing of the bracket semifinal matches.

EAGLE BRACKET

#1 Kennedy defeats #16 Grant, 10 and 8
Summary: Tournament favorite JFK closed out No. 16 seed Ulysses S. Grant in the minimum number of holes. Grant was clearly uncomfortable on the golf course and didn�t finish out on several holes. At one point during the match, a muttering, cigar-chomping Grant disappeared into the pines and forfeited several holes before reemerging on the 9th hole. Grant also attempted to �free� his caddie. When Kennedy was asked to comment about his opponent, he said, �Grant was a better president than people think.�

#8 Obama defeats #9 Reagan, 1-up
Summary: As expected, the Obama-Reagan match-up was a tight contest characterized by a lot of conceded putts. The two men enjoyed each others� company and were heard laughing all the way around Augusta National. Tied when they reached the final hole, Reagan�s mental error on the 18th green cost him the match. After tapping in for his bogey, Reagan mistakenly gave Obama a 10-foot par putt.

#5 George H.W. Bush defeats #12 Wilson, 4 and 2
Summary: George H.W. Bush built a large early lead but faltered in the middle of the match as Wilson doggedly played on, winning several holes due mostly to Bush�s mistakes. The match was dormie when the pair arrived at the par-3 16th, where Wilson hit eight tee shots into the water and lost 4 and 2.

#13 Nixon defeats #4 Roosevelt, 2 and 1
Summary: In the most surprising match of the day, Richard Nixon wielded a hot putter at just the right moments to turn back the heavily favored FDR. Nixon�s usual highly erratic play did not hurt him in the match-play format. Roosevelt admitted his game was off and called Nixon �fortunate.� Buoyed by his opening win, Nixon said he liked his chances as he marched to the practice tee.

FREEDOM BRACKET

#6 George W. Bush defeats #11 Taft, 5 and 4
Summary: With George W. Bush�s late afternoon win over William Howard Taft, both Bushes advanced to the second round in their respective brackets, preserving the possibility of an all-Bush final. Yet, speaking on the condition of anonymity in the locker room, one president said the Bushes would soon fold. Even though Taft�s game was wild (he never found the fairway), the jovial president said he immensely enjoyed the atmosphere and would stick around until the conclusion of the tournament.

#3 Ford defeats #14 Johnson, 6 and 5
Summary: Gerald Ford breezed to a first-round victory over LBJ, who swore after every shot and bitterly complained about the difficulty of the golf course. Ford played well in what many considered to be a tune-up match and appeared to ease up when his lead grew to a sizable margin. Johnson held up play on several holes and, to the embarrassment of the Secret Service and a handful of spectators, relieved himself in Rae�s Creek. When the match was decided, LBJ shook Ford�s hand and reportedly told Ford to kick Kennedy�s ass if they met in the finals.

#7 Clinton defeats #10 Harding, 1-up
Summary: Bill Clinton narrowly escaped with a victory over an upset-minded Warren G. Harding. Hitting a flask as often as his driver, Harding played boldly while Clinton constantly argued with the match�s official scorekeeper. Clinton managed to prevail and also won most of the side bets. The two were last seen headed for the par-3 course where they planned to continue playing (and betting) until darkness forced them to the clubhouse for an all-night card game.

#2 Eisenhower defeats #15 Coolidge, 9 and 7
Summary: Never in doubt, Dwight Eisenhower�s one-sided match with Calvin Coolidge was a study in contrasts. Whereas Ike thoroughly enjoyed the game and Augusta National Golf Club, his golfing home turf, �Silent Cal� looked and played like a man in a chain gang. Eisenhower approached the match as a practice round, attempting shots that he felt he would need later in the tournament. When asked about his day at Augusta, Coolidge uttered four words before trudging to a waiting car. �A waste of time.�

Bracket Semifinal Matches

Results of the following matches will be available next Tuesday.

EAGLE BRACKET
#1 Kennedy vs. #8 Obama
#5 George H.W. Bush vs. #13 Nixon

FREEDOM BRACKET
#2 Eisenhower vs. #7 Clinton
#3 Ford vs. #6 George W. Bush

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
Preview of Opening Matches
The Goods on Barak Obama's Golf Game
Ulysses S. Grant Earns Final Spot in PGC Field
Presidents Golf Championship Adds Golf Analyst
America�s Golfing Presidents

Read More...

[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]