The Year in Tiger Woods - As We Reported it

'

AP Photo / Charlie Riedel

2010 was clearly an interesting one for golf writers. It was a year that displayed, like never before, the divergent appetites for news about Tiger Woods.

Early in the beleaguered champion's "annus horribilis",  golf media outlets... large and small... formulated their strategies.

There were those who saw it as the perfect time for a segue into TMZ territory... some even set up permanent residency there.  

Others shied away from even the most innocuous mention of Tiger Woods,  having decided that the mere mention of his name evoked to many salacious images.  Golf media consumers were polarized as well; too much Tiger for some, was too little for others.  

And so it went in 2010.  And I would guess that just about anyone writing about golf on a daily basis would find it interesting to review their own coverage of this extraordinary and unexpected golf story as it unfolded over the past twelve months.  I did, and here, in reverse chronological order, is what I came up with:

Golf Fans Have No Desire to Punish Tiger - April 5, 2010
The Awesome Tiger Nike Ad That Most Find Creepy - April 8, 2010
2010 US Open - Tiger Woods Brings Electrifying Back - June 19, 2010
Of Tiger Stalkers, Sex Journalists & Golf Media Guidelines - August 31, 2010
Only Two Things - Of Tiger Woods & Ryder Cup Wives - September 8, 2010
A Western Rush to Judgment on Tiger Woods Dubai? - November 30, 2010
Chevron World Challenge - True Tiger Woods Rivalries in 2011 - December 6, 2010

"Only Two Things" - 2010: The Year in Golf & Sex

Back in early June we aired our first episode of "Only Two Things".

Our inspiration was one of golf's most popular quotes: 

"Golf and sex are the only things you can enjoy without being good at them."    

Our formula was a half hour review of the week in golf, followed by a half hour discussion of a "Mars/Venus" topic of the day .  Over the ensuing weeks we covered some controversial topics... and we were often joined by guests who brought a special insight to the issue at hand. 

Liza Churchill, a respected golf media producer and "proud former beverage cart girl" joined us for an episode on "The World of a Beverage Cart Girl" while Christina Ricci author of A Girl's On-Course Survival Guide spoke with us about playing from the correct tees in "Of Red Tees and Big Egos".  We had Ethan Johnson from the popular blog Mister Women's Sports on to talk about the new sports media brand espnW and relations hip coach/former golf instructor Catherine Behan explored with us the potential joys of a golf date.  Recently Donna Tavoso the chief marketing officer at Playboy Golf was on the show to talk about the fun guys and girls can have at  Playboy Golf Scrambles.

It's been a great six months.  Tomorrow night on "Only Two Things" we'll be reviewing some of the year's best moments in golf... and we'll be revisiting some of the show's most provocative discussions.  Some of our past guests will be checking in with us,  and we'd love to have you join the conversation too... on-air... by using our call-in number, which is: 917-889-9592.  Or, weigh in at the chat room or on Twitter... or just have a listen on the Sport City Chefs network at Blog Talk Radio. We'll be live from 9:30 - 10:30 ET.

Bunker Boost at Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship

.

When the world’s top golfers convene at Abu Dhabi Golf Club for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship next month, they'll be greeted by five unique new bunkers on The National Course.
      
The bunkers, which protect holes 2, 5, 6, 13 and 17,  feature the kind of steep faces and well-defined lips that will require players to adapt their games and "think long and hard about club selection.”

For the first time ever outside of the US, all four reigning Major champions will be in the field, along with six of the world’s top 10 players.   The event has taken place on The National Course at Abu Dhabi Golf Club for the past five years,  and a record number of spectators is anticipated at the 2011 sixth edition. ~ To that end the Championship Village has been enhanced and expanded and the spectator experience promises to be better than ever.

Abu Dhabi has become a top tourist destination, and now boasts three world-class, championship-ready golf facilities. In the past, US tourists have been scarce,  however figures recently compiled by "Conde Nast Traveler" magazine for their annual poll of readers indicate a rising number of Americans interested in travel to the Middle East. Tournaments like the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship may encourage these future travelers to see the golf possibilities in the area.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays & Thank You !

.

Just a quick post to wish all of our readers a Happy Holiday season!

We'll be around over the next couple of days,  maybe we'll even be able to finish our video message,  but in case we don't we wanted to make sure we said thanks,  many thanks, to our readers here at "Golf Girl's Diary", our listeners on "Only Two Things" and our social network followers.  ~ May you... and yours... enjoy this special time of year.

Abu Dhabi Golf Championship & Other Cool Things

.

The Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship is tees off a month from now and already it's clear that “Everybody wants to win this championship".  Motivations however, are varied.  

Ian Poulter has vengeance to extract, Martin Kaymer has a trophy to defend and two contrasting Irishmen are focused on an Irish win in the desert.  Oh, and all four 2010 major winners will be there intent on making a solid start to in 2011.  No one doubts that the Abu Dhabi Championship will bring together the best players in the world... and attract a record number of spectators than ever.

However on this side of the proverbial pond, when you ask your typical recreational golfer what he or she thinks about golf in Abu Dhabi, or Dubai for that matter, or you'll often get a look of incredulity, incredulousness disbelief.

This is particularly true for those... of a certain age... who spent time the in the United Arab Emirates during the eighties, but haven't been back since.  I spoke to such a couple at a party last night.  These former expats remember a sparse desert landscape, sleepy fishing villages and small dusty cities. An occasional oasis of date palms and eucalyptus trees provided the only touches of green.  They lived in a compound that they rarely ventured out of,  and longed for their periodic trips home.

But that was before the UAE began spending billions of dollars on infrastructure... and making huge investments in real estate, tourism and leisure.  Much has also been spent on education it should be pointed out, and UAE saw its literacy rate rise from 53.5% in 1989 to 98.8% in 2009.

The suburbanites I spoke to last night had left the Middle East in 1986, and though they'd caught glimpses of the region's development in the media over the years, they were still amazed to find out that one of the biggest events on the PGA European Tour was taking place in Abu Dhabi, staged on a sublime championship course.

Events like the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship are meant to showcase the region as one of the world's leading golfing destinations and to display its international attractions to a worldwide audience and with Phil Mickelson starting his season there this year, it's a good guess that even the more... insular... Americans will be paying attention.

I just sent an email to the incredulous couple from last night. Along with a link to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship site I also forwarded UAE Golf Online's UAE course guide and National Geographic's 10 Cool Things About Abu Dhabi.  I'm hoping this will get them up to speed.

Mercedes-Benz USA & The Twitter-Fueled Tweet Race

.
It's the world's first Twitter-fueled race... a remarkable road rally where four pairs of contestants are selected to drive specially equipped Mercedes Benzes to Dallas, the site of Super Bowl XLV.  And the thing is, each duo is competing for a pair of Mercedes Benz 2012 C-Class Coupes and a pair of tickets to the big game. 

How over-the-top awesome does that sound?

You're probably wondering where Twitter comes in... and how a road race becomes a tweet race... and what exactly is meant by Twitter fuel.  I was too.  The Mercedes Benz USA Facebook page gives you a basic overview, and what's clear is that this elegant and iconic brand is very serious about incorporating social media into its Super Bowl marketing mix.  It's an uber-social campaign that, not surprisingly relies heavily on Twitter and Facebook.

You start out by "liking" on the Mercedes-Benz USA Facebook fanpage. Then you enter with your Twitter handle.  You must be 21-years-old, but beyond that, the only two requirements are a valid driver's licence and US citizenship (hopefully they'll do similar campaigns in other countries).  On December 24 the finalists will be notified via direct message on Twitter.  Then they'll need to create a short video.

The "Twitter fuel" comes into play... and the road rally becomes a "Tweet race"... on the way down to Dallas, when miles will earned with the acquisition of new Twitter followers, and Tweets will fuel the trip.  But... if want a chance to play, you've got to enter before December 23, as in, the day after tomorrow.

Oh... and a note to golfers: I hear the 2012 C-Class Coupe has ample of room in its spacious trunk for all your equipment and accessories.  And I know how important that is.

Fairways Magazine Highlights Golf Poster Design

.

On this side of the Atlantic, the idea of choosing "a favorite golf poster" probably hasn't occurred to many of us.  In fact, most of the golfers I spoke to  yesterday at the holiday party for our "Fun, Fast and Friendly League" were a bit puzzled by the term "golf poster".

No one seemed to know exactly what I meant.  Some immediately thought of golf movies, and a heated debate about various versions of the Caddyshack poster ensued.  Others thought I was talking about motivational  posters... you know, the kind that aim to inspire with a vivid photographic image and a single succinct word.  It seems many of those feature golf course panoramas.

When I explained that I was referring the kind of poster that actually advertises/announces a golf tournament, no one seemed to remember ever having seen one. The thing is, here in the US tournament posters seem to be... almost formulaic... a purely commercial afterthought.  In France however, posters, including those made for golf tournaments and other sporting events... are considered an art form, and for each event, designers and artists strive to create something memorable. 

Fairways, the engaging French golf publication, is asking readers to select their three favorite golf posters and submit their selection... in order of preference... so that a 2010 golf poster of the year can be chosen.

The Poll is on the Fairways website and features photos of the posters to be voted upon.  The only one most in the US will recognize will be the Evian Masters,  but the group, as a whole,  is visually quite stunning.

If you don't read French there will inevitably be details on the site you won't understand, however it's still well worth checking out.  With golf becoming more global by the minute, some outside perspective... even if it's only in pictures... is definitely a good thing.

Golf's Most Inspiring: The Manuel De Los Santos Story

.

When I first heard of Manuel de Los Santos, it occurred to me that his inspiring story would make an excellent movie.  The narrative - of a young man whose life was altered by a horrific accident - was was so moving, and the message, so uplifting, it seemed... made for Hollywood. 

I wrote about the young Dominican back then as he played at St Andrews in the Dunhill Links Championship ... and wowed the entire field.

Film maker Peter Montgomery... like so many others... was amazed by the transformational tale of Manuel de los Santos.  So much so that he contacted Manuel in the spring and they made the a movie.  It's a short film... only a few minutes long... but visually stunning and extremely powerful.

It's a perfect tribute to one man's ability to transcend adversity through golf.



For those days (we all have them) when you need additional inspiration, Manuel has a YouTube channel and a Facebook page.

Only Two Things - Sexy Scrambles Gals Can Enjoy

.

In early October... right around the same time the Ryder Cup was taking place at at a rain soaked Celtic Manor...  Jordan and I spent a glorious Autumnal afternoon at historic Dellwood Country Club.

We were there for The New York Playboy Scramble. Part of what Playboy Golf calls the the nation's hottest golf tournament.  Our day at Dellwood had been postponed from earlier in the summer due to inclement weather and we'd been looking forward the rescheduled event. 

The Playboy Scramble is actually a series of regional events that take place on distinctive courses across the country... as well as in Canada and Australia...   leading up to a final competition (and VIP extravaganza) in Southern California, for the leading regional teams.

We got to Dellwood... which is about an hour north of Mid-town Manhattan... at about 11:00.  The teams had just taken off and the Tillinghast course was resplendent against a backdrop of rolling hills draped in peak fall color.  Before we hopped into our cart we were able to chat a bit with Ajay Pathak,  Playboy Golf's forward thinking President & CEO.

Though we'd been looking forward to this event, we told him we'd also been a bit hesitant, not knowing if... as women... we'd fit in.  In the weeks leading up to the event it was clear some of our friends and fellow golfers didn't think we would... at all.  There were some who surmised that a Playboy golf tournament would be like "a salacious strip club but with fairways and greens" and others who suggested that "any "normal woman" would feel intimidated by the beauty of the Playmate hostesses"... implying,  I suppose, that we were "normal women" and as such wouldn't enjoy the event.

And that's the thing.  As Mr. Pathak explained, Playboy golf events are fun, inclusive, and totally NOT intimidating.  They're set up in such a way that the most competitive players will be challenged, while beginners and less skilled golfers will also be able to have an awesome time.  Plus, Playboy's Girl's of Golf are perfect hostesses and they make sure the experience is stellar... for both men and women... from start to finish.

We saw all of this during our day at Dellwood, and that's what we'll be talking about tonight on "Only Two Things". from 9:30 - 10:30PM ET.   The Playboy Golf experience and how awsome it can be for women... as well as men.  We'll be joined by special guest,  Donna Tavoso, Chief Marketing Officer for Playboy Golf, who we also met at Dellwood Country Club.  We look forward to talking to her tonight about some of the fun experiences she's had ... and the interesting people she's met though Playboy Golf.

It promises to be a fun show, and we'd love to have you call in and tell us about some of the unique tournaments you've participated in.  You can do that on-air by using call-in number 917-889-9592.  ~ Or join the conversation in the chat room on the show page, or just listen at "Only Two Things" on BlogTalkRadio.

Pablo Martin: Dunhill Defense & Race to Dubai Redux

.

Pablo Martin 2009/2010
Alfred Dunhill Championship

Exactly one year ago upon winning the 2009/2010 Alfred Dunhill Championship, Pablo Martin proudly cradled the regal looking bronze leopard trophy.

His down to the wire, one-stroke victory over Charl Schwartzel at Leopard Creek Country Club  had earned him the impressive trophy and made him the first golfer to win on the European tour as both an amateur and a professional.  It also earned him a short-lived lead in the 2010 Race to Dubai.

Pablo Martin 2010/2011
Alfred Dunhill Championship

Flash forward 365 days and the picture is practically identical:  Same young man (he's only 24-years-old)... same beautiful course... same stately sculpted leopard.   There was even another nail-biting finish.  The only major difference being that with his  2010/2011 Alfred Dunhill Championship win the Spaniard becomes the first man to retain a Euro Tour title since Padraig Harrington won a second straight British Open in 2008.

And in what's been a banner year for athletes from Spain, Pablo Martin's successful title defense is one more reason for Spanish sports fans to celebrate. ¡Claro que si! Felicitaciones a Pablo y a España.

December 12, 2009 - Photos by Warren Little/Getty Images Europe

The Dubai Ladies Masters and "golf in DUBAi"

.
Always a fun tournament to watch, The Dubai Ladies Masters turned five this year.  To that end I've chosen five of the many awesome stories to come out of the LET's 2010 season ending event.

Iben Tinning - As far as career endings go, they don't get better than Iben Tinning's win yesterday at the the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters. A 20-foot birdie on the final hole allowed the her to win what she'd decided would be the final tournament of her 15 year LET career.

It was a particularly meaningful win for the 36-year-old Dane, a six time Ladies European Tour winner.  Tinning... whose husband Lasse was caddying for her...was the first Danish women to top the money list on any major international tour when she won the Order of Merit in 2005, however she hadn't won a tournament since.  Until yesterday... when she sealed the deal on a course she sites as one of her favorites in one of her favorite destinations in the world.  “Winning in Dubai had been my main goal", she said, "and that has been accomplished".

Christina Kim - Playing in the Dubai Ladies Masters for the second time this year Christina Kim finished in a tie for fourth.  Her top five finish... along with her distinctively colorful style and open, engaging personality... reinforced her reputation as one of the most entertaining players in women's golf and once again brought individuality,  excellence and excitement to an international audience of golf fans.  Kim is also an enthusiastic evangelist for global travel, and particularly for the unique experiences that await those who visit Dubai.

Michelle Wie - Michelle Wie's  fantastic final round 5-under 67 was the lowest of the day yesterday,  and gave her a share of sixth place for the tournament.

This allowed her to finish 2010 on a high note. The popular player revealed that she's getting physical therapy for her back issues.  Issues that have sidelined her the past few weeks.  Wie assured fans that she'll be resting and rebab-ing her problematic back and feels she'll be stronger by next year.

Lee Ann Pace - Player of the Year - Despite disappointing results in Dubai this week, South Africa's Lee Ann Pace finished a stellar LET season on Saturday, winning both the Henderson Money List and Player of the Year... as well as numerous heartfelt accolades from around the world.

Having turned professional in 2005, Pace played on the Duramed Futures Tour in 2006 before qualifying for the LPGA at QSchool in 2007.   She lost her LPGA card at the end of 2007, she qualified for the Ladies European Tour for 2008... again via Q-school... and her first win came just this past June at the Deutsche Bank Ladies Swiss Open, and she followed that up with a phenomenal four wins in rapid succession.

The Growth of Golf in the Middle East - 'golf inDUBAi' was created in 2005 to promote Dubai as one of the world's leading golfing destinations and to display Dubai's other international attractions to a worldwide audience.

The Dubai Ladies Masters and the Dubai Desert Classic... the two premier events promoted and organized by 'golf in DUBAi'... have showcased the emirate's vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience for a number of years. Their fields include the top professional golfers in the world and these international stars consistently praise the experience of playing... and spending time... in Dubai. 

Mohamed Juma Buamaim,  the Vice Chairman and CEO of 'golf in DUBAi' has a clear passion for the sport but has always been sensitive to the fact that until quite recently, golf was unknown to most UAE nationals. Several years ago he explained it this way: "We all grew up playing or watching football --- the sight of chasing that white tiny dimpled ball was something totally alien to the social fabric of our society".

That's clearly changed over the past decade and Boumaim... along with his counterparts in the golf federation that works under the title of Middle East and North Africa (Mena)... are planning to launch a new Middle East golf tour for the region's leading amateur and professional players. William Johnson, writing for The National, Abu Dhabi Media company's fine English-language publication, reports that the tour is likely to be launched either next year or in 2012, and could involve as many as six tournaments for the region's leading amateur and professional players. The main aim is to improve the standard of golf in the region starting at the amateur level and give aspiring Emirati professionals and those from the host of other nationalities who play the game in the Gulf Region, a platform from which to take the first step towards the paid ranks.

Musings of a Golf Newbie - Golf ≠ Boring

.
By Jordan Farr
I resisted learning golf for years because of a preconceived notion. It's a notion that's rather widespread, but... I eventually found out... totally erroneous. It's the notion that golf is boring.

If you google "golf is boring" you'll come up with aproximately 160,000 results. There are Facebook groups and YouTube videos entitled "Golf is Boring". Yes, I'm afraid it's a pretty popular notion.

Golf is defined as: "a game played on a large open course with 9 or 18 holes; the object is use as few strokes as possible in playing all the holes" ...while the definition of boring is: "so lacking in interest as to cause mental weariness". ~ Now... after just a few lessons, a primer on golf etiquette and a couple of forays onto a local par three... there's no way I see a connection between those two definitions.

I think most of those who say “golf is boring” don't actually understand the game, but are making assumptions based on two things: how easy the professionals make the the game look vs. how difficult the game actually is.

People watch televised PGA and LPGA tournaments and consistently see tee shots that soar and putts that roll in from afar. {Yawn}. Announcers speak in hushed tones and the golf clap is soft and civilized. Then those same people then decide to try the game... because after all it looks so easy. And of course, nothing works. ~ Golf IS tedious when your tee shots repeatedly sputter and even your short putts miss cup.

What's true is that golf is a mental game as much as a physical one, and yes, some might consider golfers to be... mathletes... the nerds of the sports world. In order to see the fun and fascination in the game of golf one has to dig just a bit deeper... get to know the nuances of the game, the functionality of the equipment, the shaping of shots and the strategies that will eventually lead to those elusive birdies.

That's what I'm discovering now and it's anything but boring... in fact, it's actually pretty awesome. ~ So what about you? Do you think golf is boring?

Photos: Maria Verchenova via Chicago Sun-Times / Strategy diagram via ProGolfer Digest

Only Two Things - The Golf Date vs Dinner & a Movie

.

It's often said that the best way to judge some one's character is on the golf course.

Generally the adage refers to business situations but why not apply it when you feel you might want to get serious about a prospective mate?  That's the premise behind today's popular online golf dating sites.

If you've been in a committed relationship for awhile,  you may not even be aware such sites exist, but they do... and there are several that boast a numerous marriages as a result of their match-making magic.

However, I've  also spoken to a number of golfers who say they'd never want to play with their significant other... and can't even imagine hitting the course with a blind date.   Some say they fear a round of golf might reveal more than they wish to expose.

We'll be discussing that dichotomy tonight on "Only Two Things"  from 9:30 - 10:30PM ET.   And we'll be joined by a special guest,  Catherine Behan the force behind a GolfinLove.com. She's a relationship coach,  golfer and former golf instructor who met her own husband on the course.   We'll also be taking calls from a couple of Golf Girl's Diary readers who've tried on-line golf dating sites.

It promises to be a fun show, and you can weigh in on-air by using call-in number 917-889-9592.  ~ Or join the conversation in the chat room on the show page... or just listen at BlogTalkRadio

Musings of a Golf Newbie - The Old & New

.
By Jordan Farr
We all love change... don't we?

Well, maybe not when it's just change for the sake of change, but there's something to be said for "keeping up with the times".

Golf... more than many other sports... sometimes struggles with this concept. A small but vocal group of traditionalists would prefer to see the game played the way it was a century ago... and they're not particularly receptive to the idea of change. But for everyone else, it's definitely happening, and some of the most noticable changes have come in the areas of fashion, technology, equipment and instructors.

There's clearly a lot less formality in golf apparel than there once was ... a lot less boxiness and a lot more variety too. Amazing fabrics are being used. They keep golfers warm in the winter, cool in the summer and ultra-flexible in multiple layers. We visited Ralph Lauren Headquarters last month for a preview of their awesome 2011 line. The styles were gorgeous and perfectly designed for golf. There was even a bluetooth enabled wind shirt!

Technology is now used way beyond what a mid-20th century golfer could even dream of. Today you can do things like... read distances on your BlackBerry or play a full scale round at Pebble from your corner pub like I did last weekend. World Golf Tour, my favorite online game, lets me compete on championship course with golfers from all over the world... virtually! The graphics are stunning. BTW WGT is nominated for best online game at the Mashable Awards this year... I just voted for them.

The way the sport is taught has also changed quite a bit. Maybe golf's not a game of speed and agility per se... but rather a game of strategy, stamina and technical ability. That doesn’t mean a golfer shouldn't be trained like an athlete, and nowadays golf fitness has become an essential part of becoming a golfer. Techniques and drills and training aids have all evolved as well.

As a beginner, I can't speak too authoritatively about all the changes that have taken place with equipment... I'm still fine with my starter set... but according to my uncle... who buys a new driver every couple of months... they've been epic.

I like the way golf is evolving and I'm quite sure the advances that have taken place have made it easier... or at least more fun... to learn. Also there's no denying the game is more open and accessible than it once was. However, a part of me would love to go back to a simpler time, where golf was just... golf... free of technology, unaffected by the fashion runways and devoid of those very annoying, very vigorous fitness programs.

Images: Futuristic Golf Course via Tuvie / WGT logo / Vintage Foursome via Hickory Golf

Chevron World Challenge Sets the Stage for True Tiger Woods Rivalries in 2011

.

 Rivalries take sports to the next level.

They light competitive fires in athletes and inspire passion in fans.  And for quite a few years, golf didn't have any rivalries.  No real ones anyway.

Golf had Tiger Woods, one player so dominant it seemed no one would ever step up to challenge him. Those whose job it was to write about golf, lamented the lack of a worthy adversary... and latched onto Phil Mickelson... to little avail. Ultimately, the Tiger/Phil stories were rarely compelling, in part because Mickelson never appeared to have much appetite for being the anti-Tiger.
     
Then came 2010.  Lefty's season seemed to start and end with his touching win at the Masters.  Meanwhile Europeans won the remaining three majors... plus the Ryder Cup.

Wracked by scandal and vilified by many in sports media, Woods floundered. He went from event to event, offering little hope for a much-awaited comeback,  however despite the winless season... and the reams of righteous indignation put forth by the press... it was clear that Tiger was still US golf's best hope.  And from a fan-standpoint, far-and-away the player who generated the most interest, passion and excitement.

When England's Lee Westwood usurped Woods as the number one golfer in the world, the beleaguered American was just beginning to show signs that his swing revisions were working and it was starting to seem like he's put "the scandal" behind him.  This led to the first shy speculation that there may actually be a true Tiger Woods rivalry in the cards.

Headlines coming out of the Chevron World Challenge yesterday reflected the continued consternation many journalists still feel about Tiger Woods and his game, while International headlines vaunted the awesome clutch-putting win by affable Graeme McDowell. Others were quick to dismiss the tournament altogether, as a highly curated exhibition that revealed little. 

Be that as it may, fan sentiment is best reflected these days on the social networks particularly, Twitter where hashtags and keywords can provide a real-time snapshot of the level of engagement and enthusiasm surrounding a particular person or event ...and yesterday afternoon it was crystal clear.  A Tiger Woods rivalry is still what golf fans want.  In everyone from the avid golf fanatic to the most peripheral golf-observer-in-passing, a final round with Tiger in the mix... or the possibility of such... drives interest and provokes passion for golf.

That's just the way it is ...and it seems to we as golf fans should be rather optimistic for 2011. With players like Lee Westwood, Graeme McDowell and a number of others seemingly ready to take on Tiger it seems that for the time being, our rivalry drought may well be over.

 

Photos by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images North America

LPGA Championship - Cristie Kerr's Pivotal Round

.

Preparing to tee off momentarily in the final round of the LPGA Tour Championship, Cristie Kerr has more at stake than anyone in Orlando today.

Trailing leader Amy Yang by three strokes she's within striking distance of becoming the first American in 16 years to win the Rolex Player of the Year,  a lifelong dream she's worked unrelentingly to achieve.  In order to unseat points leader Yani Tseng, she needs to win.

The Vare Trophy, for the season's best scoring average, is also within reach.  If Kerr posts a score three shots better than 2010 money list winner Na Yeon Choi's today she'll win the Trophy by seven thousandths of a point.

Then there's the Rolex No. 1 world ranking,  a title Cristie's held several times this season. A win today could allow her to finish the year with it.

That's a lot riding on today's 18 holes, but there's no doubt Cristie Kerr has the talent, ability and determination to win.

Photo by Scott Halleran / Getty Images North America

石川遼 - Ryo Redemption at the Nippon Series JT Cup

.

It's going to be an ultra-exciting weekend as third round action begins tomorrow at the Golf Nippon Series JT Cup.


The tournament... and the top spot on the Japan Golf Tour money list... will be decided over the next two days, and Ryo Ishikawa, currently second in the money rankings, must win Sunday at Tokyo Yomiuri Country Club, in order to overcome Korea's Kim Kyung-tae and become Japan Golf Tour's leading money winner for the second consecutive year.

A devastating first round 76 made that possibility seem extremely remote until the sprightly superstar came back with superlative, second round eight-under 62, earning him a share of sixth place and putting him back into the money title mix.

Also in mix however,  is Yuta Ikeda, who heads into the third round leading by three strokes thanks to a stellar, bogey-free first round 63... and second round 69.  He too can be crowned Japanese number one with a win this weekend, and he'll tee off tomorrow six strokes ahead of his 19-year-old countryman.

Current money leader Kim... who stands to become the first JGTO money champion from South Korea... is currently in a share of 10th following a disappointing second round 73.

That's what I meant by ultra-exciting.  As you probably know,  I'm a huge fan of Ryo Ishikawa... for more reasons than I can name.  His extraordinary talent, whimsical Yonex wardrobe and sweet, shy demeanor are the obvious ones.

Noriko Yamada, a friend and fellow Ishikawa fan, sent me this link which contains the above photo of Ryo. I believe it was taken during his sensational Friday round.  His pants and hat appear to be leather, he's wearing a couple of necklaces over a turtleneck and he's sporting an awesome asymmetrical hairstyle.

Let's face it... the kid just keeps getting better.

Tiger Woods' Tournament gets Geosocial with Foursquare

.

a few of my badges

I've been a Foursquare aficionado since the early days... that's about a year ago... and my 8 mayorships currently include a country club, a golf course and a golf performance center.  Oh, and I've unlocked 23 badges.

The the thing I love about Foursquare is the competition... the game... But it's actually much more than a game.

For... those who don't know... Foursquare is a location-based social networking site. According to current reports it has about 4 1/2 million users worldwide.  Geolocation is huge these days,  despite privacy concerns. Companies of all sorts are incorporating it into their PR/MarComm strategies and individuals are reaping benefits both social and practical.

Since the season began, more and more golf media people have been using Foursquare to connect at tournaments.  Meanwhile golfers around the world are checking into courses and clubs and meeting other golfers.  Friendly battles for course mayorships sometimes ensue.  I've always thought golf and Foursquare made a perfect pairing, and now that cell phones will be permitted at most PGA events it'll be even better.

In fact, the 2010 Chevron World Challenge is already actively participating in Foursquare, giving fans a way to win prizes and ticket discounts.  They're also giving out Chevron gas cards for check-ins at the Social Media Club.  Check-ins at Chevron locations in the area will be rewarded as well. 

I think it's a great way to enhance and communicate the tournament experience, and I really wish I was out there to get in on the Foursquare action.  They're even going for Swarm badges, which you get when there are collective check-ins at one venue.  Swarm badges are quite awesome BTW.  ~ For more info on Foursquare, check their site... and for details on how you can use the service at the Chevron World Challenge check the tournament's news section. 

Who knows, now that Tiger is actively using Twitter... he might just turn up on Foursquare.

Only Two Things - Of Bosoms, Bellies & Love Handles

.
"Do boobs get in the way?"...  "Are my boobs ruining my swing?"... "How is a woman with large boobs supposed to swing a golf club?"

Here at Golf Girl Media we get a ton of mail about boobs. And that's not surprising really, when you consider the strategic position they occupy on the female (and in some cases, male) body.

In the mid-nineties, outspoken golf analyst, Ben Wright was quoted as saying, “Women are handicapped by having boobs. It’s not easy for them to keep their left arm straight, and that’s one of the tenets of the game. Their boobs get in the way.” That... and a number of other inflammatory statements... ultimately got the bombastic broadcaster fired, but the issue of "breasts and the golf swing" has never gone away, and... it's important to note...  there are some who feel breasts can actually give a woman an advantage. 

Speaking of advantages, one of our favorite professional golfers, John Daly, who's lost over 100 lbs, declared in a recent interview that “The biggest problem has been my putting because I’ve got nowhere to put my elbows. I used to be able to put my elbows on my love handles and putt pretty good. Now they’re all over the place,” the popular player added that he knew the weight loss was for the better, but revealed that it's taking time to get used the physical change.

And what about a bulging belly... how does that affect the golf swing? Golf fitness experts say it limits arm extension and impedes rotation... but the portly poster boys of the PGA, guys like Mark Calcavecchia, Angel Cabrera and Tim Herron, don't seem to let their measurable midsections get in the way.  So... how does your body type actually affect your golf game?

That's what we'll be talking about tonight on,  "Only Two Things" . We'll be broadcasting from 9:30 - 10:30PM ET. And you can weigh in on-air by using call-in number 917-889-9592. Or join the conversation in the chat room or on Twitter... or just listen at BlogTalkRadio. Talk to you tonight.

A Western Rush to Judgment on Tiger Woods Dubai?

.

The story's been seized upon by western scribes of every stripe ... and it's still being rehashed and retweeted with surprising regularity.

It started with a piece by Lawrence Donegan which appeared Sunday,  in the Observer and on guardian.co.uk.  ~ Donegan writes of his visit to the site of the Tiger Woods Dubai golf course development, and in multiple, metaphorically-rich paragraphs, draws parallels between the current condition of the project and that of it's beleaguered designer.  The timing of events certainly lends itself to such parallels; Exactly one year ago Dubai's debt crisis and the Tiger Woods scandal came to light within 48 hours of each other. Both shocked the world, and in each case the ensuing year has been a tough one. 

As Donegan tells it, Tiger Woods Dubai is currently stalled.  The clubhouse remains a hollow facade and few of the planned luxury homes have even broken ground.  A six hole section of the course has reportedly been completed and requires massive amounts of water each month to sustain.  Several stark photos from Donegan's yfrog stream clearly testify to the lack of progress. 

However,  here's the thing: prosaic and engaging as the Lawrence Donegan's story is, it still strikes me as somewhat facile.  At times the tone is judgmental... almost sanctimonious... with undertones of "how the mighty have fallen" directed at both the golfer and the emirate.  One could almost come away with the impression that the struggling Tiger Woods Dubai is an anomaly cause by the irresponsible behavior of a few when in fact it's just one of a multitude of overly ambitious golf projects all over the world - conceived during "the bubble" and now on hold.

Like luxury golf development projects across the US and Europe, Tiger Woods Dubai may be stalled for a while... perhaps it'll be scaled back or maybe it will actually fall by the wayside.  We got no definitive answer from the Donegan story, because as yet, there isn't one.  What we did get was a trite retelling of "Tiger's demise" and multiple swipes at Dubai's unbridled excesses... as though the desert kingdom had the market cornered on conspicuous consumption. 

Perhaps I've just grown ultra-cynical but I can't help but think that this particular spin just made the most buzz-worthy retweetable marketable story.  As a writer myself, I know that's what I look for and I certainly don't reproach the talented Mr. Donegan.  What I found unsettling was the way this story was relentlessly rehashed, repeated and retweeted.  While Europe and the US face their own debt and unsustainability issues, it seems some are taking solace in the much more distant reversal of fortune happening in post-boom Dubai.

But I think it's important to keep things in perspective. To that end, have a look at this recent video taken by a tourist a week or so ago in downtown Dubai.  Despite the stagnation of certain projects, the city appears vital and exciting.  The country's commitment to golf is ongoing and effective as well, judging from last week's Dubai World Championship anid the impressive tournaments coming up.  And as far as Tiger Woods Dubai, I think it's premature to write it off just yet.

The Dubai World Championship Golf Shoe Statement

.

Hip, street-inspired footwear like PUMA's Cell Fusion Golf Shoes and Ecco's Golf Streets have been infiltrating the sea of traditional saddle shoes for a while now,  however when the affable Oliver Wilson appeared in his glove shoes at the Dubai World Championship, there was considerable curiosity...  and some consternation from the media.

Golf 24 Seven called them "horrible" while The Press Association suggested that they were "probably the strangest golf shoes ever seen".  

What the former Ryder Cup player had on his feet were Vibram FiveFingers and they do in fact resemble gloves... for the feet... as each toe has its own individual pocket.  The resulting look is slightly reptilian... with a cartoonish quality. More whimsical than horrible in my opinion.   

Addressing questions about his curious kicks, Wilson explained that he'd been wearing the FiveFingers for about three weeks, inspired by his coach.  "I practice barefoot sometimes and swing it better... he revealed.  FiveFingers are said to allow the "sensation and freedom of going barefoot."

The engaging Englishman tweeted on Friday evening that he "had to resort back to the monkey shoes" ... and on Saturday he carded an impressive 68.

Personally, I'm quite intrigued with the barefooting concept.  Not necessarily for golf,  but definitely for kayaking and sailing, maybe the gym too.

In any case Oliver Wilson's Vibram FiveFingers will almost certainly be the strongest style statement to come out of the 2010 Dubai World Championship.

Photo: Ross Kinnaird / Getty Images Europe
Photo: Vibramfivefingers.com

Musings of a Golf Newbie - Frustration and Elation

By Jordan Farr
Over the past several weeks, I’ve become a true cheerleader for golf.

However, even though I’ve been playing more often, and spending hours at the range, I still... by most standards... suck.

Denying golf’s frustration is like... let’s see... it’s like denying a huge elephant which happens to be sitting in a barn with a bunch of small horses. Okay, that made absolutely no sense. What I’m saying is that I’ve discovered it’s useless to deny the frustrations of golf.

Speaking of frustration, it surprised me to see a number of brilliant … and seemingly established.... PGA and LPGA players heading back to Q School in hopes of regaining their tour cards. What could be more frustrating than that?

On a more... humble... level, I sometimes feel like my own frustration is nearly as epic that of the beleaguered Q School returnees, simply for because I allow it to get there.

When the swing I’ve (supposedly) been perfecting at the range produces only a series of awkward, ugly worm-burners on the golf course ...and the putts I focus on so intently just refuse to ever roll in.... I have an emotional response that involves anger and disappointment... and on occasion... a major meltdown.

Then, when I begin to play well, I get all nervous, “How will my next shot be? What if I can’t get past that damn sand trap and it ruins my best round ever!!!" Which inevitably leads to my classic newbie dilemma “WHAT CLUB DO I USE AGAIN?” All of these questions and concerns distract me from my game… and sometimes I feel like they’re ruining it... slowly and painfully.

Fortunately, there's a bright side. As in: I’m learning to marvel in my strengths and take joy in the good shots... however rare those may be at such an early stage in my golf love-affair. This naturally lowers my frustrations for when something does go awry. Setting small goals that will hopefully lead to my bigger ones, is another thing I’m trying to do.

And I’ve got to admit, by the end of each round or practice session... despite some inevitable frustration... I always seem to have a huge smile on my face because I got out there and worked on the game I’m growing to love.

Thanksgiving Outtakes and Hot Rickie Fowler

.

My last few days have included nine holes of golf,  a modicum of writing and an inhabitual amount of time spent in the kitchen.  I made four pies and a massive amount of cranberry sauce.  I also rediscovered my amazing  collection of antique French silverware... and actually remembered why I collected it in the first place.



We're having Thanksgiving at our house for the first time in years... for a dozen people... and it's a  bigger deal than I remember.  Clearly, I've lost the Martha Stewart mojo I once had.

Anyway, we told you on Monday about Hot Rickie Fowler,  the drink we'd invented for our chilly days at the golf course.  Based on the celebrated "Arnold Palmer", this hot variation is inspired by one of our favorite new golfers: rookie star Rickie Fowler... and his predilection for the color orange.

To make a long story short,  Jordan and I planned to make a video about this awesome drink...and we attempted to do so... however my idiosyncratic assistant was having trouble pronouncing Rickie Fowler's name, if you can believe that concentrating, which resulted in  multiple takes.  Ultimately we ran out of time and the exhausted "Golf Girl Junior" had to head home.

So I made my own video which you can find on our Golf Girl Media facebook page with the recipe... and history.   In the meantime Jordan thought you might find our "blooper reel" um...pathetically amusing funny. 

Best wishes to all for a Happy Thanksgiving.

Rickie Fowler is Hot, Justin Bieber is Cool

.

A few week's ago As you probably heard,  Justin Timberlake gave a unique shout-out to Rickie Fowler at his Shriners Hospitals for Children Open when he declared "Rickie Fowler is like -- I don't know, I think he's cooler than Justin Bieber." 

Well we beg to differ... somewhat... with that assessment.  As far as we're concerned Justin Bieber can keep "cool".  After all he won four awards at last night's AMAs including "Artist of the Year".

Rickie Fowler, on the other hand, is "hot".   With six top-10 finishes in 27 starts he's a leading contender for the PGA Tour's Rookie of the Year honors.  He's also universally regarded as one of the most charismatic players to come along in years decades. 

As if further proof was needed,  yesterday on the chilly fairways of Richter Park we warmed up with "Hot Rickie Fowler" and despite the extreme iciness had one of our best rounds of the season.

OK... as you probably surmised. "Hot Rickie Fowler" is a drink... a perfect one for a cold day on the golf course... show you how to make one in a video later today.  In the meantime, here's an awesome little clip that may appeal to fans of both the golf star and the pop star.

Musings of a Golf Newbie - Life & the Game

.
By Jordan Farr

We've all heard that golf is a great metaphor for life.

At its most basic, it's the highs and the lows... and the ups and the downs... that can be compared. ~ And a bad break sometimes leads to a good outcome, both on the course and off.

Though there are choices in the way one proceeds... through the years, or down the fairway... in both golf and life there comes a time when you've got to play it from where it falls... and make the best of it. Then you hope like hell heck for the best possible outcome.

The most significant difference I see between golf and life is that in life, you only have one round to get it right... at least on this earth.