Golfgal

Therapy for a golfer's soul: Golf's Unfolding Drama

2012-01-31T18:44:00.000-08:00

Evan Schiller

You meet the most interesting people when you work or play in the golf industry - many of them through social media.

Last week was no exception. I followed someone on Twitter who introduced me to his new eBook on the iPad.

Now normally I get books sent to me by publishers to review for free. If I like a book I'll write about it. And if I don't like a book, I write nothing.

But this time was different. I actually paid for the book. And it was worth every penny.

Golf's Unfolding Drama is a book of golf course photography designed especially for the iPad by Evan Schiller, a former PGA professional who has become one of the most renowned golf course photographers in the world.

Over the past 20 years, Schiller has captured the drama and stunning beauty of hundreds of courses including Pebble Beach, Augusta, The Old Course at St. Andrews and Ballybunion, to name just a few.

40 of his most dramatic grace the pages of his book.

A favorite of mine is his photograph of one of the best golf courses in British Columbia - Big Sky.

Big Sky Golf Course, BC (Photo by: Evan Schiller)

Makes you want to play it, doesn't it?

Flipping through Golf's Unfolding Drama is like strolling through my bucket list of golf courses I hope to play someday. Each photo comes with a "not immediately visible" narrative that allows you to appreciate what Evan had to do to capture the image at just the right moment. It's fun to read them, but equally fun to hide them so you can fill your screen with breathtaking imagery.

I love having it on my iPad because it means I can flip through it anytime, anywhere (like waiting in the dentist office or sitting in on a really boring conference call ;)).

I highly recommend you download it and see for yourself. It's a wonderful reprieve from life's dull or stressful moments. I think of it as therapy for a golfer's soul.

Golfgal

LPGA rookie Hannah Yun Hits ISPS Handa with High Hopes

2012-01-29T13:41:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or does it seem like forever since we’ve watched the ladies tee it up on the LPGA?

Three months off the radar is much too long IMHO, so I'm excited that finally we'll see the ladies in action at the 2012 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club, February 6-12.

It’s a formidable venue (remember it hosted the Presidents Cup in 2011) boasting a world class field including Rolex Player of the Year, Yani Tseng, 38-time champion, Karrie Webb, the unstoppable Susann Pettersen with 8 titles to her name, including 2 in 2011; and let’s not forget the Louise Suggs Rolex Rookie of the Year, Hee Kyung Seo.

And while all of those accomplished women will capture the attention of golf fans everywhere, my sights will be on a teenager entering her rookie year on the LPGA tour with a resume many seasoned players would envy -- 19 year old, Hannah Yun.

One of 140 talented women (many previous LPGA players) battling for the coveted top 20 at Q-school, Hannah, in her first attempt, tied for 15th place and earned her full 2012 LPGA card in the fall of 2011.

It was an amazing feat for someone so young, but Hannah isn’t unfamiliar with accomplishments and accolades. At just 15 years of age, Hannah:

Graduated high school with high honors
Was her high school’s MVP after winning the Florida High School State Championship
Received a full scholarship to the University of Florida in 2007.
Was the youngest student in the history of the NCAA to compete in college events
Was named the MVP of the Florida women’s team
Was selected as an NCAA, SEC, and Golfweek first-team All-American
Won IMG/Leadbetter Golf Academy MVP and Player of the Year

In 2009, at the age of 17 Hannah was the youngest golfer to ever play as a touring pro in the US.

When I heard about Hannah from Dave Andrews, author of the delightful novel, Pops and Sunshine, I knew I had to find out more about her. Listen in and discover what makes this young phenom tick...

Quite the young lady don't you think?

No wonder Dave Andrews (who graciously sent me pictures of Hannah for this post) wrote this after her Q-school success, "I was thrilled for her and happy to have helped in a small way. Trust me, however, Hannah didn’t need my help. She is as good a player as most of the players currently on the LPGA tour. She is going to do very well in her rookie season on the tour, and at the young age of 19 has a brilliant career to look forward to. She is also one of the nicest, most humble and modest young women I have ever had the chance to meet."

Best of luck Hannah! I'll be cheering you on throughout 2012 and for many years to come.

Golfgal

A free Valentine's Gift for the golfer you love

2012-01-26T10:28:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan of January. The excitement of Xmas is over and all we have to look forward to is snow, sleet and freezing rain. Oh and did I mention darkness? It's dark when I leave for work and dark when I come home at night. And to top it off there are no more statuatory holidays until March.

No wonder bears hibernate at this time of year!

Oh and what about taxes? For the self-employed like me, I enjoy visiting my tax accountant at this time of year about as much as having a root canal done.

Sigh...

No discretionary spending for me for a while. And it's usually shopping that gets me out of my winter funk.

So imagine my delight when I found out that I could get a $24.99 iPhone app I've been wanting to try for a while for free. Yup, the folks at Mobitee are having a one-time promotion where you can get the app for free between January 26th - 31st at 9 pm.

Haven't heard about Mobitee? Well, if you've been spending $60+ a year to update your SkyCaddie subscription, then you need to check them out.

Mobitee is a GPS golf app which contains over 25,000 golf courses, satellite aerial views of each hole, flyover videos, a range finder, shot tracking, score cards, and something I love...FREE updates!

It works on the iPhone, iPod Touch (if you have Internet access) and Android and BlackBerry devices as well.

Check out this review done by Daily App Show.

Pretty cool eh?

I've just downloaded it for my iPhone and I can't wait to try it out on my home course in Vancouver. Only problem is that it's too cold to play golf. :-(

But I have a great idea. Why don't you download it (make sure you download the premium version 2.8), try it out on your favorite courses and come back and tell me how it was. Then I can live vicariously through you until the sun decides to honour us with his presence in this winterland.

And don't forget Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Why not download it for the one you love at the same time? It's never a bad thing to be early with a Valentines gift - beats the heck out of being late. ;)

Golfgal

Do your golf clubs suffer from S.A.D.?

2012-01-21T14:10:00.000-08:00

It's January 21, 2012 -- almost two months since I lifted a golf club. I remember the last time as if it was yesterday.

18th hole, Ka'anapali Kai...

My golfguy and I were reminiscing about the last 3 weeks when we played golf every day in paradise. We were moaning a bit that we were down to our last 2 or 3 shots for a very long time.

It never occurred to us at the time that someone was listening, until I picked up my sand wedge, took an easy swing and proceeded to shank my new Prov V1 into the water. Sandy was misbehaving. No way was she going to let me par that last hole after hearing she was soon going to be denied active duty for many months. At first I was angry, but then I understood...who could blame her?

Imagine if we treated our kids like we treat our golf clubs. You try playing daily with Johnny for weeks on end and then lock him in his room for 2 or 3 months. Family Services would be on your case faster than you can say PPSD (Post Paradise Stress Disorder).

Golf clubs aren't just inanimate objects I've come to learn. They need continuous tender loving care in order to do their job -- a job they do for us every chance they can, without complaint even in the foulest weather.

Clubs require regular exercise to stay fit for golf. But instead of supporting their fitness regime, we dump them in the garage or basement when weather socks us in, just like I did upon our return from Maui. We self-centered golfers are the reason that our clubs suffer S.A.D. (Seasonal Abandonment Disorder) every winter.

Two months ago, my clubs went from swinging in seventh heaven to hunkering down in hell (which in our home is a cold dark shed) - all in a 24 hour period. Talk about a shock! No wonder they feel abandoned.

I did try and explain to them that as soon as it was 8 degrees C (46 F) I would come and take them out for a round. But that any lower temperature than that would be too cold for my hands to grip them.

Weeks went by and soon it was Xmas. Imagine my surprise to find hand warmers in my stocking Xmas morning. Where did they come from?

It didn't take me long to find out. It was all too clear who the secret Santas were when I discovered my stix waiting for me at the front door.

I confronted them as they stared out at the bleak cold day asking which of them was responsible for the toasty treats. Not one of my sulky soldiers would look at me. Finally Sandy peeked around her neighbor and then I knew.

She was trying to make up for her blunder on my approach shot to 18 the month before. I couldn't help but smile. Unfortunately the warmers were not enough for me to take her out to play then or since. Below freezing temperatures and snow do not a great round of golf make.

But now it's January 21, 2012. My clubs continue to sit at the front door staring out towards the south to where the driving range awaits our return someday.

The high today is 7 degrees C (45 F). I'm feeling the full effects of P.P.S.D. and know that my clubs are as S.A.D. as S.A.D. can be.

1 degree is all it takes to turn our frowns upside down. What's 1 degree?!

The snow has been washed away, there are heaters in the driving range stalls and my handy warmers are in my bag.

I think it's time for me to reward my loyal lasses for their patience these past 2 months.

It's time to take the plunge ladies. Brrrr...ring it on and let the 2012 golf season begin!

Golfgal

Don’t go to Maui unless you can risk the horrors of PPSD
Gordon Clark gclark@theprovince.com twitter.com/gordzillacity
The Province
16 Jan 2012
Ihave a warning for everyone. Do not, I repeat do not, go to Hawai‘i on vacation, particu‘ularly if you care about your mental health. I’ve just returned from a family vacation to Ka‘anapali on Maui and I’ve never been more miserable in my...read more...

Is it adios time for the Aloha season?

2012-01-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

Every January I count down the days to the Hyundai Tournament of Champions. Imagine an event where only winners are invited to play - what could be more exciting than that?

Well, actually almost anything this year.

Last weekend I had it on in the background while I did more stimulating things - like tallying year end expenses for my taxes.

Normally when the Aloha season kicks off on the PGA Tour on Maui, I’m glued to the TV, looking to see how the best of the best play Kapalua.

But this season, with so many of the world’s best taking a pass on this event, I listened to the telecast, but my heart was just not in it. If it weren't for Steve Stricker being in the field, I'm not sure I would have even listened to it.

Three out of the four, 2011 major winners did not feel the event was worth their time (Rory McIlroy, Charl Schwartzel, Darren Clarke). The number one player in the world (Luke Donald) had other things to do. Numbers 4 and 6 (Martin Kaymer, Adam Scott) were also missing in action.

And Lefty hasn't shown up in years, allegedly because the Plantation Course doesn’t suit his game. How can a course not fit the game of someone took home the trophy twice in 5 years (Phil Mickelson won the event in both 1994 and 1998).

Nope! There is something seriously wrong when the most exclusive event of the year is excluded from the calendars of the best players in the world. With both Nick Faldo and Johnny Miller in the booth, there were bigger stars behind the cameras than in front of them. How sad is that!

Now don't get me wrong, the young guns are fun to watch (well, at least those who don't carry broomsticks in their bags), but we need big name draws at this event or it might go the way of the Champions Skins Game.

Yes, sadly after an 11-year run on Maui, the Champions Skins Game is taking a leave of absence (or should I say, the sponsors are taking a leave). Sniff...

The Royal Ka'anapali hosted the event from 2008-2011 and prior to that the legends of the game enjoyed 7 years competing at Wailea.

I've always wanted to attend the Skins Game and thought it was just a matter of time before I would walk the fairways with the greatest players of our time, and my favorites of all time -- two-time defending champions, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.

Tom and Jack take home $310,000 at the 2011 Skins Game (Photo credit: Ka'anapali Resort)

But time may have run out on me. Jack and Tom were ready to play this year if someone was ready to pay a fraction of what Hyundai paid out at Kapalua.

The total purse for the Champions Tour this year was $5.6 million; Skins - $770K.

Stricker took home: $1,120,000; Jack and Tom had to split $310K.

Why do I suddenly feel like I'm talking about the LPGA? Sigh...

Forgive my first rant and rave of the new year, but something's just not right here.

If fans make enough noise about the Skins Game, IMG and ESPN might put a little extra effort into getting it back because the men want to play! Jack and Tom have already said they'd be back.

But what about Hyundai? If I was the CEO, I wouldn't want to invest my money in a tournament where the best players bail every year. But it wouldn't be Hyundai's fault if they withdrew their sponsorship and the Tournament of Champions collapsed; it would be the the players themselves we should blame.

Golfgal

Add this CLUB to your golf fitness regime

2012-01-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

How often have we heard people complain that golf is an elitist sport for the wealthy? Well, I'm not wealthy by any means and I play golf as much as I can. But I do have to admit some golf courses charge so much for green fees I feel like I have to use my house as collateral before handing over my credit card in the pro shop.

Golf can be an expensive sport if one is not careful. This is especially true of championship resort courses; you can pay a hefty premium to play during prime time in high season. And January through March is very high for those of us living in the great white north.

But when Xmas is over and it's dark and cold throughout Jan and Feb, we golfers start looking for a place to plant our Footjoys. Many easterners head to Myrtle Beach - "The Golf Capital of the World".

It certainly does offer a lot of choice in terms of golf with 100+ courses and the weather sure beats the heck out of Detroit's.

But a quick check today of their 7-day weather forecast was depressing. The highest temperature all week is 65 degrees with lows in the 40's and a daily average high closer to 60. Not freezing, but certainly not my idea of perfect beach weather. No wonder Myrtle Beach golf vacations are so affordable right now. Just bundle up first.

Meanwhile on Maui's west coast, today's forecast is sunny with a high of 82. The lowest it goes throughout the week is down to 79. Now THAT's golf and beach weather.

Okay, so we've found our destination, but what about those high season prices? Yes, Maui golf can be expensive if you don't know what you are doing. Even twilight golf can cost you over $100 at many courses on the island.

But I just discovered a real gem of a deal. Did you know that you can play everyday on a championship course on Maui for only $50 a month? That's right. It's part of Ka'anpali's FIT CLUB program where participants pay $50 a month for access to walk and play the first six holes of the Kai course each day after 4 p.m. It's been around since 2010, but I just heard about it. One of those best kept secrets I guess.

First, I love that you can walk the course. It's great exercise and I actually play better when I walk.
Second, it only takes an hour and a bit to play, so you can golf after work or after beaching it all day.
Third, it's perfect for golfers who are vacationing with someone who doesn't golf. Guys, if your wife doesn't want to be dragged around in a power cart for 4-5 hours, she can spend an hour at the spa while you hit the fairways before the cocktail hour.
Fourth, those cocktails will taste great up at the new Roy's restaurant in the Ka'anapali clubhouse that opens at the end of January. If you haven't tried a Roy's yet, check out their Aloha Hour. Yum!

I tell you FIT CLUB is a brilliant idea. No wonder 80 players sign up each month and there are approximately 25-40 that go out and play every day.

It has created its own golfing community for both tourists and -- like Byron here from the Westin Resort and Spa.

Imagine closing off your day with 6 holes of golf. It's better than nine and dine -- more like six and sips and for a lot less cash.

When I head to Maui this year, I'm signing up. For once I'll come home from my vacation weighing less than I did when I arrived AND with a lower handicap AND with money in my pocket.

Aloha!

Golfgal

If it's good enough for Annika, it's good enough for me!

2012-01-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

Back in 2010 I was very focused on improving my golf handicap. I put together a 10 step program to better golf and dropped 3 points off my index. It was a very good year.

2011? Not so much...

Last year my handicap remained flat even though my game felt okay and I shot my lowest score twice while vacationing on Maui. I realized when I got home that it wasn't my golf fundamentals that went sour in 2011, it was my fitness program.

In 2010 I had a personal trainer for most the year. It paid off, but it was an expensive investment. When my trainer resigned and went back to university, I decided to save some money and try working out on my own. I kept up my 4-day a week program, but it just didn't have the impact needed to improve my core strength, flexibility and balance. I wasn't doing the right things - I was just putting in the time which turned out to be a big waste of time.

But this year is going to be different. I just finished reading Weight Training for Women's Golf - The Ultimate Guide by Kai Fusser (Annika's trainer for many years). I found the book easy to read and understand, and I really liked seeing every exercise presented in both text and photographs so you can see exactly how they should be done properly.

I also liked that Kai dispels some myths about weight training - myths I believed were gospel until now. I always thought that women shouldn't lift heavy weights because it would make us bulk up - WRONG! I also believed that more reps was better with lighter weights - WRONG! And I thought spending a 1/2 hour every day on an elliptical machine was the best form of cardio - WRONG!

Kai pulls no punches when he tells you what machines to use and which avoid. He replaces those hours on the elliptical machine or treadmill with something he calls HIIT (high intensity interval training). HIIT only takes 4-8 minutes, 3 times a week! As soon as I read that, I knew I had the right program for me!

He also includes a nutrition chapter which I have dog eared to death.

In Part 5 of the book Fusser details workout programs for 4 phases:

Building and Learning
Strength
Power
In Season

He even includes exercises to help cure specific swing problems.

I do like this book and the workout programs it recommends (Hey, if they were good enough for Annika, they are good enough for me!).

The one thing I would change is the packaging. I'd make it more of a workbook where you can extract your phase's exercises and take a small cheat sheet to the gym with all the info you need. I improvised and tore the book apart to make my own mini book for phase 1 and I'll do the same for the other 3 phases.

I felt badly doing it, but I would never remember what each exercise was without the pictures. It would be great if Kai were to create a website with the content in this book (and charge for access of course). Or include a workbook with pictures as a supplement to the main publication.

Anyway, I am starting the program tomorrow and am committed to seeing it through 2012. I'll let you know how I do. Wish me luck!

Golfgal

Golf Fore Gals on Maui: Where Wahines Win!

2011-12-30T14:06:00.000-08:00

For those of us who began playing golf with husbands or boyfriends, we all remember how naked we felt on the first tee in front of strangers, especially those golfers who never bothered to wait for us to tee off before heading down the fairway (or into the woods) to hit their next shot.

I almost gave up the game when this happened to me early in my golfing career, but my golfguy was very supportive and became my biggest fan on the course, encouraging me and making up for others less considerate. It's probably why I married him :)

When I finally felt more confident with my game a few years ago, I became an advocate for getting more women into golf. I discovered that many women didn’t play because they were afraid. They had either had a bad experience or found golf clubs to be intimidating. A number of those who did play had given it up because they couldn't find gal pals to play with and they were too uncomfortable about walking on as a single.

For all of those ladies, the first thing I say to them, is, “You need to check out Golf Fore Gals (GFG). GFG a virtual golf club (i.e. one not tied to any specific course) that offers ladies of all skill levels a chance to play with other golfgals who want to play the game, get better and most importantly...have FUN.

At Golf Fore Gals, women find friendship, fun and freedom from fear, learning the game with women who have “been there” and know how hard it is to break into the male-dominated sport.

GFG offers women from Vancouver, the Okanagan, Fraser Valley and now Maui, 3 levels of membership, so no matter what your skill level or goals, there’s a place for you in the “club”. You really need to check out their website and see what members are saying about their experiences. Or check out their Open Facebook Group where there are lots of great pictures of their events.

The Maui chapter of Golf Fore Gals is new this year and I had the great pleasure of playing their Maui Women’s Annual Classic in November. No matter what the score, every wahine was a winner that day. It was a blast!

I'm booking next year's November getaway to ensure I'll be there in time to play it again.

Diane Fru, the owner and president of GFG, and her husband, Rod are from Vancouver, but they spend as much time as they can in paradise just like I do with my golfguy every year. We always try to get a game in together and this year we chose the most women-friendly course on the island - Ka'anapali Kai.

I love both of the Ka'anapali courses and from my experience playing them for two weeks in November, so do many other women. We were paired with husbands and wives on many days and even single women joined us.

One day, we were a few holes behind a regular monthly women's event; there were over 40 golfgals playing the Royal Course and from the hooting and hollering going on, I could tell that these ladies were having a good time! I was very tempted jump in my cart and join them.

I found out later from the Marshall that two of the women scored aces that day - one on the par 3, 8th and a second on the par 3, 17th.

Par 3 17th Hole at Royal Ka'anapali

I remember the pin placement on the sloping 17th green very well, and I can tell you that it was not easy. Not one person in my foursome could putt their ball into the hole. We'll all lipped out and eventually picked up. Thank goodness for gimmees :)

Golf is not easy, but it's worth every frustrating minute when you can play wonderful courses with good old friends and new ones you might never otherwise meet. My 2 best friends in Vancouver are women I met on a golf course.

So if you know a woman who loves golf or is thinking of taking it up, but doesn’t know where to start, give her a special gift this new year – give the gift of membership at GFG. She’ll thank you for a lifetime. Because that’s what golf really is – a game for life!

Aloha!

Golfgal

Golf doesn't get any better than this!

2011-12-10T10:05:00.000-08:00

Every year I hear first-time PGA Tour winners talk about how delighted they (and their wives) are about finally being able to travel to Maui in January to play the PGA TOUR Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

Even though they had just won over $1M (which could buy a lot of golf rounds :)), they are as excited as a kid at Xmas about playing at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort. I can understand that.

The Plantation Course has a majestic quality you really can't find anywhere else on the island. But that being said, The Bay Course at Kapalua is no slouch either. Check out this view from the tricky par 3 5th tee. Can you hear the waves?

I started playing both Kapalua courses back in 2007 and every year when I return to this island paradise, I can't wait to play them again - sometimes to relive a special memory or seek revenge on a hole that got the better of me.

But no matter my intentions going into a round, I can't help but be blown away (sometimes literally by the trade winds) by the breathtaking vista views that the Plantation Course offers -- from that first drive on the on #1 hole...

to the last on 18...

The Plantation always delivers the most exciting, awe-inspiring, humbling and sometimes infuriating, golf I play every year. And this year was no exception.

In fact, I have to say it was probably the best 4 hours of golf I've ever played. The weather was perfect and so was the company. For the 2nd time in a week, my golfguy and I were honored to play with the 2008 Aloha Section PGA Teacher of the Year and Top Instructor in Hawaii by Golfing Magazine, Claude Brousseau.

Claude is a Senior PGA Teaching Professional at the Kapalua Golf Academy and it didn't surprise me when one of the guys at the bag drop said on our arrival, "Are you playing with Claude today? He's the best teacher on the planet you know." So I guess we're not Claude's only fans :)

Throughout the day, Claude provided invaluable tips that turned potential double bogies into birdies for us (like he did here for Charles on number 5 and me on 10).

Charles commented after his best round at Kapalua that he learned a very valuable lesson playing with Claude. "Forget about what you learned on the cow pastures in Wisconsin and look to the mountain for advice", Charles said. "It's one of the few times in golf when you shouldn't keep your head down. Look up and look around and you will see there are few fairways here where hitting it to the middle is the right thing to do."

I asked if anyone could enjoy the same unforgettable experience and was pleased to discover that you can have a playing lesson with a pro through the Kapalua Golf Academy (or contact Claude at cbunderpar[at]msn.com). I highly recommend it. Put it on your bucket (or Xmas) lis.

Back to the course...

The Plantation Course is not for the faint of heart, with its severely sloping fairways, blind shots and elevation changes (Did you know that from the 17th tips to the green, it's a 17-story drop?). Seriously downhill and dangerous!

But I loved it because, contrary to what you might think, it's women-friendly. While the boys have to play their 457 yards as a par 4, the lasses of the links play their 428 yards as a par 5. It's great being given an opportunity to reach the green in regulation on the #2 handicap hole. Nice!

And that's not the only hole where forward tee players are given a bit of a break. On the par 3, 8th, there are two forward tees from which to choose. The first requires you to carry your shot about 150 yards to the pin. Now that doesn't sound like a lot, but as Claude pointed out the westerly's blowing through the ravine will pull your ball down, so you need to take enough club to take that into consideration.

The alternate tee box is on the green side of the ravine and is a short, minimal risk option for high handicapper; but it can still test your short game.

I decided to go for it - I like living dangerously ;). And nothing felt so good as the par I scored after a good drive, great chip and 1-putt! Sweeeeeet!

It was a magical day for me, topped off by Claude's exclamation "That's the shot of the day!", referring to my miraculous blind bunker shot on the 6th hole that landed on the green, 145 yards away.

Sadly I 3-putted the hole, but I didn't care. Those "come back tomorrow" shots are what golf is all about.

Speaking of putting, let's just say it's an art form at the Plantation...and I'm no Michelangelo.

I don't think even a belly putter would have helped me on the 11th hole, where I hit the green in regulation and then proceeded to 4-putt it for a double bogey! I still say it was unfair - the views distracted me ;)

And those spectacular landscapes aren't just in front of you. On the contrary...often some of the best seascapes are behind you, like this one at the 14th tee box.

If you take a few moments and step out of your "think box" and turn around to appreciate the panorama, you won't be nearly as panicky when you turn back to face the sea of bunkers that await you off the tee.

I could go on and on, but I think you probably figured out that I've become quite enamored with this good walk unspoiled.

I used to think it wasn't a course for us chix with stix, but I've changed my mind. At just over 5,600 yards from the forward tees, it's actually shorter than the course I play at home. So why was I so afraid of it before?

I asked Mike Jones, General Manager/Director of Golf Operations at Kapalua Golf what a golfer who has never played the course before do to maximize their enjoyment and minimize the Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt many of us experience on our first visit...

“The thing to realize about the Plantation Course is that it was designed so that the ball could be played on the ground more,” explained Mike. “There are not a lot of forced carries and most entries into the green allow a golfer to land the ball short of the green and let the slope roll the ball on the green. Figuring out the way the ball will roll can be challenging but it is not as frustrating as having to carry the ball over a hazard all the time and always the golfer a chance at making a decent score. In addition, enjoying the natural beauty of Kapalua always make for an enjoyable round.”

So although The Plantation Course is not a cakewalk, it isn't as intimidating as one might originally think. Just let your heart and soul lead the way through your round as opposed to your head, and you will find that it's a wonderful venue for those great shots... those good shots... and those 'good enough' shots you have in your bag.

Aloha!

Golfgal

Great Gift for the Ardent Golfer

2011-12-02T11:53:00.001-08:00

Legs like Buttah!

I've always thought that Ernie Els' swing was poetry in motion.

It looks completely effortless and rhythmic; some might even go so far as to say it is as smooth as Barbra Streisand's legs... "Like buttah!" (Ooops, I think I'm dating myself :) ).

Anyway, back to golf...

Except for my comments on The Big Easy, I don't ever remember using the words poetry and golf in the same sentence. But since I discovered Leon White's book, Golf Course of Rhymes (Links between Golf and Poetry Thought the Ages), I can see how poetic golf really is.

Dr. White's book is a wonderful collection of poems and songs about golf dating back centuries. But it's not just a book of poetry; it if full of historical gems from the famous and infamous men and women who share our addiction to this sport. Did you know that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a golf poet? Or that women's golf started with Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots? Did you know there are at least 11 different ways to spell golf?

I am not someone who reads a lot of poetry, but I really love this book. It's organized so that each chapter is a hole on an 18-hole course, including a practice tee chapter and, of course, the 19th "watering" hole.

There are funny poems, sad ones and ones you have to read a few times to figure them out. But as the author encourages more than once, you should read them out loud to truly appreciate them. It's a bit tricky with the ones riddled with Scottish dialect (he does offer translation), but reading them out loud, you can't help but put on an accent, which leaves you smiling your way through the stanzas.

One of my favorites in the book speaks to me of heartache and happiness (which is what golf is all about); it was published in The American Golfer back in 1915:

My drive is erratic, my brassie’s the same,
My irons atrocious, and awful my aim,
My mashie is fearful, my putting worse still,
My scores have the look of a dressmaker’s bill;
My legs are a-weary, my wrists are quite lame,
But I am most happy, — I’m playing the game.

So if you are looking for a gift for someone who loves the links, I would highly recommend Golf Course of Rhymes. It's a fun and entertaining read that will also teach you things you probably never knew about the history of golf and those who loved to hate it...and hated to live without it.

But it's not just oldies but goodies...there are poems about Tiger's chip from behind the 16th green on the final day of the 2005 Masters and even one about Michelle Wie's quest to beat the pros in pants.

As Robert Trent Jones Jr. said in his forward in the book, Golf Course of Rhymes "is the best round of golf you will ever play without swinging a club."

I couldn't agree more.

Golfgal

Don't let grumpy golfers get you down

2011-11-21T11:33:00.001-08:00

How many times have you played a round of golf with someone you hope you never lay eyes on again? Not very often I'm sure. 99% of the golfers I meet on the first tee are wonderful people - friendly, supportive and fun.

So imagine my dismay when I drove up to the first tee last weekend to discover a man (his wife was riding shotgun - not playing) and one other gent sitting there looking thoroughly disappointed that they would be playing with a woman golfer. Sigh...

The husband gave me that "look" and insisted there must be some mistake - he and his golf buddy were just a twosome.

His wife knew better, however; we had spoken back on the range during warm up where she told me they had the same tee time as we did.

I had asked her if she golfed and she said she loved to play, but that she wasn't very good (How often do we hear that?) and so she was letting the boys play by themselves. I'm not sure if it was really her decision or her husband's (green fees were quite pricey), but it was a shame to see her having to sit out a round in paradise. Oh well...she seemed okay and smiled a lot throughout the day.

Anyway, back to the grumpy old man...I wasn't going to let anyone ruin my day. So I was friendly and shouted "Good shot" as often as I could. And I was very careful to not antagonize him in any way, so I made sure I was always ready to hit when it was my turn. I was playing from the forward tees and I carefully planned to have our cart ahead of the boys so when they finished teeing off, I could quickly get to my tee before their carts scooted by me to their shots.

My golfguy is always supportive of me in these awkward situations. Throughout the day, he jumped into our cart with club still in hand after he hit his drive so we were not holding up anyone.

And I fell in love with him all over again when he said to me, "Get revenge Golfgal! Play better than they do." - Which we both did. :)

By the end of the round, the husband was so frustrated with his own game, he went back and forth between two greenside bunkers at least 5 times on the 17th hole. Seriously, I'm not exaggerating. I lost count of his score at 8 (on a par 3!). He would not pick up even though the rest of us had finished the hole long before (and there was a group standing on the tee box with jaws dropping wondering what the heck this idiot was doing).

Oh well...you can't change people, but you can change how you react to them. I am pretty proud of the fact that I didn't let this jerk ruin my day. My golfguy and I both played well and took time to enjoy the beauty around us and my shot of the day.

Aaah...paradise!

Golfgal

Ka'anapali Golf - Where fun and friendships flourish

2011-11-17T13:09:00.001-08:00

I just read this quote from a Facebook friend ...

"The friends you make on the golf course are the friends you make for life."

– Jessica Anderson Valentine, Scottish golfer

and thought how timely it was. Let me explain...

Last week my golfguy and I played a round of golf at one of our favorite courses -- the Royal Ka'anapali Golf Course on Maui, with one of my favorite people - Claude Brousseau - a Senior PGA Teaching Professional at the Kapalua Golf Academy on Maui.

I interviewed Claude two years ago for an article I was writing for InsideGolf Magazine. I discovered after talking to him and spending an hour on the range with him that he is true gentleman and an amazing teacher. He never uses golf-speak when talking to you. He never says, "I do it this way."

Claude's #1 priority is to make YOU successful and he has all kinds of great props, memorable acronyms and analogies to help you maximize your potential. It didn't surprise me at all to learn that he's a big fan of Vision54, which is based on the fundamental principle that every individual has unlimited and unique potential.

It also didn't surprise me that he won the "Aloha Section PGA Teacher of the Year” award in 2008.

Although Claude and I only met once two years ago, when he saw I was coming to Maui this November through Facebook, he reached out to me online and said, "Hey let's play some golf and have dinner!" How many virtual strangers do that!

I naturally jumped at the chance to play golf with him. But when the day arrived, I was shaking in my Footjoys. I was so nervous to play with an awarding winning professional.

And so, as I headed out to the first tee with Claude and his buddy Dick from Northern California (an excellent golfer and tennis player), I was sweating bullets. Then after watching Claude and Dick hit their drives, I was struck again by the famous words said by Bob Jones of Jack Nicklaus, "He plays a game of which I am not familiar". Oh dear...

Anyway, I headed off to hit my first shot of the day, and although it wasn't my best effort, it made the fairway and I was on my way to playing one of the most enjoyable rounds of golf I can remember.

I thought playing with a pro would make for a "serious" round, but Claude was laughing and joking (and giving strokes to Dick) with all the jocularity of a weekend warrior. But when he stood up to hit a shot, he went into another world - the infamous "zone". From fun to focus - the transition was truly amazing.
And it didn't cost me a dime to get some wonderful advice from Claude along the way...like how to read putts on very tricky, grainy greens. I also learned the real reason I skulled a 7 iron (I thought I peeked, but he explained it was my ball position that was off).

Ah ha! I had forgotten some of the basic fundamentals he had taught me two years ago - the 4 elements he calls the pre-swing: B, P, G, A - Ball Position, Posture, Grip and Aim.

After the round, we headed over to Hula Grill (a wonderful restaurant right on the water at Whalers Village in Ka'anapali) to have dinner with his lovely wife, Anne-Marie. We'd never met Anne-Marie before, but it wasn't long before we discovered how much we had in common. Time flew by as we chatted about our love for golf, wine, food, and, of course, Maui. I didn't think I'd ever find someone who loves this island as much as I do. I was wrong - Anne-Marie has adopted it - she calls it "my island". :)

It was a magical day from the first tee to the last bite that I will remember fondly for a very long time and hope to repeat again soon.

It really is true that the friends you make on a golf course are friends for life. I have 6 more golf games planned for this week. I am looking forward every one of them. Who wouldn't be when you know that your next best friend may just one tee-time away.

Golfgal

Playing Golf Vegas Style in Maui

2011-11-09T13:19:00.000-08:00

Every year I can't wait for November to arrive - it's the month of my great escape to paradise where I can golf golf golf. Each time it's more wonderful than the one before and this year was no exception, because it started off with one of the most fun-filled scrambles I've ever played.

The day after I arrived on Maui, I was delighted to join 3 fun-lovin, golf crazy gals at the Maui Women's Annual Classic at the Dunes of Maui Lani.

It was the 4th year that Golf Fore Gals has hosted this tournament and it's now on my calendar for every November going forward (until I'm under the fairways instead of over them).

A local trio of BFFs welcomed me to their team and it wasn't very long before we were laughing our way around 18, playing a crazy variant on a Texas Scramble. I've played a lot of scrambles, but this one had a twist. Instead of having to ensure every player contributed a minimum number of drives off the tee, we had to roll a die to see who's ball we had to play on each hole.

Des, who had the hottest putter of the group was #1
Anna, who drove the ball 230+ yards was #2
Andra, who outplayed us all, consistently long and straight was #4
Leaving me as numero trois, hoping to be a lucky charm for my new friends.

If we rolled a 5, we got to choose the best ball of the four and a 6 required a re-roll. We prayed for a lot of 5s :)

It was more Vegas Scramble than Texan. And although we were lucky on our first hole with the roll of a 5, there were times when it was like shooting craps. More than once, one of us invariably yelled "Crap!" after a roll (or another more colorful expletive ;)). Like the 13th hole where my errant tee shot ended up lost in space and we rolled my unlucky number. Everyone else was sitting pretty and I was fuddled in fescue! Arg!!!

But the lovely ladies held no grudges. In fact, I believe Andra offered me a cold beer right after that ;)

Next year the tournament will be early in November at Kahili - another great course on the island - although the winds can howl at times (yesterday I swear they were 40+ mph). It's worth a trip to this little piece of heaven for any gal who loves to golf.

And as was the case this year, I'm sure there will be a FUNdraising component to next year's event (Golfers always give back!) The Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. (MEO) who do excellent work within the community, were the recipients this year.

I wouldn't change a thing to this annual Golf Fore Gals competition. Okay, maybe one little thing to help the charity of course ;) I hope next year we can buy mulligans - lots and lots of mulligans! I sure could have used one on that blasted unlucky 13th!

Aloha and see you next year ladies!

Golfgal
ps: Just received this wonderful video of the day. Now...doesn't this make you want to play?

Golf could be a Paralympic Sport - Time to Adapt!

2011-10-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

When the Paralympics were held in Vancouver in 2010, I attended as many events as I could, marveling at the passion and perseverance of the athletes as they overcame what appeared to be insurmountable odds to excel in the sport they loved.

I was in awe of their courage and tenacity. Their “never give up – never surrender” outlook on life left me wondering what I would do if I were to experience serious trauma through illness or accident. Would I give up golf or would the love of the game give me the strength to try, try again?

Thankfully I haven’t had to find out, but after spending an afternoon at the Adapted Golf Clinic at McCleery this past June, with 15+ golfers who have survived severe traumas, I think their example gave me an answer to my question. If you really love something, you will find a way to enjoy it, no matter what life throws your way.

Fortunately, there are organizations ready to help, such as the Vancouver Park Board and GF Strong Rehab Centre. Over a dozen years ago, Jan Vetter from GF Strong and Bonnie Friesen from the Park Board launched the Adapted Golf Clinic. As part of that initiative a workshop was held with 14 golf pros who wanted to give of their time and energy to help those who might otherwise never have a chance to hone their golf skills.

My coach, Ginny Golding, from the University Golf Club, was the coach at this year’s clinic. She had attended an Adapted Golf workshop with the LPGA quite a while ago, and for the past 12 years, Ginny has provided instruction for people with disabilities – many of whom are clients referred to her by GF Strong.

“Let us not forget that golf is about hitting a little ball with a stick. Where we hit the ball, how we hit it, how we hold the stick and who is hitting the ball are the variables,” explained Ginny. “The common denominators are fun, challenge, reward, camaraderie, fresh air and exercise. Everyone can play golf!"

As Ginny’s helper at the clinic, I was able to meet most of the students who came out to McCleery to get some tips on how to improve their game or just hit a golf ball for the first time.

Many people were in wheelchairs; others could stand and walk, but had limited arm and shoulder mobility. But that didn’t stop any of them from whacking the ball as far as they possibly could, enjoying that sweet sound a good strike makes. It was an afternoon filled with:

Focus – on one shot at a time
Feedback - from Ginny and volunteers like me who teed up balls, helped with alignment and club selection
Fun – I have never seen so many smiles on a driving range in my life.

The students left with valuable golf knowledge and fond memories of come back tomorrow shots. I left with a new appreciation of life and a desire to know more about these remarkable individuals. Lucky for me, everyone I met was more than willing to share their story on what brought them to the clinic and why they love golf.

Take Ed, for example. Ed survived a stroke 5 years ago and has very limited use of his left arm. So his is a one-handed swing using his right arm only; but when he connects with the ball, it soars!

A client of GF Strong, Ed has enjoyed participating in a number of therapies, but his favorites by far are the recreational programs such as sailing, kayaking and golf. Prior to his stroke, Ed, like most of us, enjoyed golf but was frustrated with the level of his game.” Sound familiar?

Today, Ed is working on improving his fundamentals and, “To regain [his] love of the sport.” He’s really no different than any golfer who wants to get better… “It's very challenging - probably the most challenging sport out there,” Ed explained. “And it makes it doubly challenging when you can only use one arm. I haven't really developed the right technique to be able to use one hand, but I’m working on it.”

Lessons from pros like Ginny help and they aren’t just about grip, alignment and swing planes. “A lot of it is about building confidence too,” said Ed. “When you've suffered any kind of disability, you've lost all of your confidence. So when somebody gives me advice on technique and helps me regain my confidence, it’s great.”

Janice Fay, who was injured in a motorcycle accident in 1984, agrees, “You get a vibe between yourself and the person who is helping you or you don't. I thought Ginny was incredible, and I've had a few teachers, so I can compare and contrast.”

Janice took up golf as a teenager. “When my father retired, my mother booted him out of the house, and he found his way to the golf course; she quickly became a golf widow,” joked Janice. “I was impressed by his transition from work to golf. As a swimmer and into aquatics, I didn't do the land-lubbing thing so well, but he was patient enough to explain putting to me, and I really give him a lot of credit for transitioning my life from the water to the glories of the park and golf courses.”

Janice has an unusual cross-handed grip, but it works for her; she could really hit a ball!

Both Janice and Ed have lived with their disabilities for quite a few years, but what about those who are just getting used to the idea that they may never regain full use of their arms or legs.

Meet Mike Sincock. Mike was an avid golfer, playing 2 or 3 times a week up at Westwood, before a dirt bike accident last October left him with a fractured skull in 3 places. But like all the rest of the people I met at McCleery, that hasn’t stopped him from pursuing his passion.

“I believe in the power of the mind and golf is mental game,” said Mike. “I like to say I'm not religious, but I do respect everyone's belief, and the right to choose what they believe in. I believe in the power of me.”
Mike was very clear on what he wants to accomplish, “My goal is to increase my distance on my drive and my irons. Because of my accident, I've lost about half the distance, but when I was at the golf clinic I was able to strike the ball quite well.”

I can certainly attest to that, watching Mike work on his drives with Ginny. “I think I'm successful at golf because golf is all about what you can independently do. It's not a team sport; it’s all on the individual. So that's why I think I do well at it, because I can make easy corrections, and implement instructions easily.”

After speaking with the golfers, I wanted to know more about the programs and people behind them.
Janet Soucy, a recreation therapist at the GF Strong Rehab Centre has a number of clients who participate in all kinds of Adapted Sports/Activities, including golf.

“When I meet with a client, I do an assessment to find out about their leisure history, activities, needs and goals,” said Janet. “If there was an activity or sport that they enjoyed before their trauma or accident, like golf, we take a look at the big picture. What are their specific barriers to participation in golf, and how can we overcome them? For some individuals it could be the physical disabilities that impair them. But in most cases it's also the lack of finances and transportation.”

Janet went on to explain that for a lot of her clients, especially those with brain injuries, they find themselves unable to work or drive. The circle of friends that they had at one time may no longer be available to them. They become isolated. But golf clinics like this one, along with other structured activities such tai chi, modified hiking/walking programs and kayaking, canoeing, outrigger and dragon boating offered by the Vancouver Park Board, help clients feel better about themselves. They also provide the opportunity to meet new people and friends who can provide encouragement and support.

According to Janet, “It's like a seed that's planted, and it starts to grow and it develops into all of these wonderful things that make such a big difference in a person's life.”

Bonnie Friesen has been working with people with disabilities at the Vancouver Park Board for 31 years and sees training and equipment as major requirements to make more of these programs possible. For example, there is only one Adapted Golf cart in the city. It cost the Park Board about $10K and is only available at McCleery.

Bonnie also pointed out that for many people with disabilities golf is just too expensive, especially at the larger clubs. Shorter, executive style courses are more accessible for people with mobility issues, but still pricey.

Janice Fay agreed, “Golf is so far away from most of the rehab people that need it or could benefit from it. Activities like horseback riding and golf are all very expensive and so we’re often excluded from them. But, when we do get access, it’s huge - it's just fabulous when that happens.”

While I was talking to the players, it occurred to me that there are juniors, ladies and men’s clubs at just about every course in the region, but not one of them offers a club for people with disabilities. Senior’s rates are also available pretty much everywhere, but again, nothing for people with disabilities. So how do these players take their clinic game to the course without any assistance from the clubs? It really comes down to friends, family and volunteers.

“My dad who's in his late 80s had a friend with Alzheimers; sometimes his friend would be facing the wrong way to hit his next shot,” shared Bonnie. “But my dad and his two buddies would take their friend out as a regular foursome and help him play, so that he could continue to do something that he loved.”

Janice concurred, “It takes a lot of volunteers and the ones that the Park Board finds are fabulous. They make a huge difference both on the aquatic side and the golf. They are just phenomenal!”

So, the Adapted Golf Clinic is great, with good support from volunteers, but it only happens once a year. That’s just not enough – we need to do more to let people know what’s possible.

“I totally agree,” said Janet. “It really comes down to lack of awareness. A lot of people have no knowledge of recreation therapy. I’ll go to a stroke group, and the members of the group will have never met a recreation therapist or heard about Adapted Golf, or Adapted Kayaking. So what’s really needed is education and awareness - letting people know that there are ways of doing things, but it means, maybe modifying the activity in order to be able to do it. If there's a will, there's a way. Find a way to do it to enhance your quality of life – something that’s so important to all of us, no matter what.”

Once people are aware of what’s possible, Mike believes they should embrace the power of positive thinking, “Stay positive and leave your issues at home. Golf is 100% mental, and if you can stay focused on being positive, you can hit a lot better shots.”

Ed encourages everyone to never give up, “Everybody has challenges one way or another, whether it's cognitive or physical. But if you continue to work hard, any physical condition should not prevent you from engaging in golf. It's a lifelong sport you should be able to play until you’re 100 if you really want to.”

Kris Jonasson, Executive Director of British Columbia Golf agrees. “Golf is a sport that can be played by people of all ages and adapted equipment is now available that would allow for golf to be enjoyed by everyone regardless of physical limitations,” said Kris. “We know the benefits that golf provides as a physical activity yet we often overlook the power of the social interaction inherent in the game. Golf is a sport that improves the health and quality of life for all who play and it is important that we find ways to accommodate everyone regardless of the challenges. British Columbia Golf supports the inclusion of all in sport and will continue to work going forward with any organizations that would introduce and promote golf."

There are so many ways for golfers in this city to give back – something this sport is known for. The Vancouver Park Board is always looking for volunteers at their Adapted Sports activities.

If you want to help out, contact Melanie Josephs at the Vancouver Park Board or the volunteer resources team at GF Strong.

You just never know...your support might just make golf a Paralympic Sport someday.

Golfgal

Who should be golf's world #1?

2011-10-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of being on Danielle Tucker's The Golf Club Radio Show. It was fun, but I have to admit, I feel a lot more comfortable being behind a microphone than in front of one. I wasn't sure what she would ask me, so it was impossible to prepare.

I should have known how things would go when she started off the interview with "Let's have some fun." Haha...needlesstosay, she proceeded to push all the right hot buttons and got me ranting and raving about women's golf, long putters and slow play.

When I hung up the phone, I was still in a feisty mood, so I decided to write about another topic that gets me hot and bothered - the big debate on who should be the #1 golfer in the world.

IMHO (along with the International Federation of PGA Tours), there is no question about it - Luke Donald is the best player in the world.

I know I know....he hasn't won a major (YET!), but Donald has won three times this year (one of which was a World Golf Championship) and his stats speak for themselves.

Donald leads the tour in:

Top 10 finishes (13/18)
Money list on both the PGA and European Tours (the only player EVER to do that)
Strokes gained - putting
Scoring Average

Luke played well week after week to climb his way up to the top of the world rankings the hard way; as of this posting, he's held that position for 19 weeks.

And... he did it all without using a long putter (Sorry, I had to get that dig in, Phil, Adam, Keegan... ;)).

He may not have the power of Dustin Johnson, the creativity of Phil or the killer instinct of Tiger, but he has a game of which none of those players are familiar - the game of consistency.

I'd put money (if I had any ;)) on Luke winning a major next year and I see many more over his career.

Meanwhile, Tiger (who has more talent in his baby finger than any player in the world) will not win enough majors to beat Jack's record. Okay I said it. You can beat me up in the comments. It's not that I don't want him to win, but he's not doing the right things to get there. And time is not on his side.

What's wrong with Tiger is not his swing. If it was, we would still see his wondrous wedge play and putting prowess. Sure he made a few good shots at the Fry's, but seriously...we're talking Tiger playing in a less than stellar field and still only tied for 30th.

Tiger's problem is one he can't fix with coach changes, swing changes and caddie changes... The only thing that will allow Tiger to return to his greatness is a change from within. Arnie said it this weekend on GC. And who can argue with the King?

Talent is a terrible thing to waste. Luke's making the most of his; Tiger isn't. And if Tiger doesn't take a good look in the mirror and see where the real problem lies, he'll never be able to fix what's fundamentally wrong with his game.

And here you can beat me up again, but I honestly believe that if Tiger continues down this path of thinking that swing changes will turn things around, he will win a few more tournaments and maybe another major, but he won't achieve what he's really capable of. And that would sadly make Tiger Woods the biggest underachiever golf's ever seen.

Golfgal

From Blocked to Balanced

2011-10-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Most golf fanatics would probably agree, this game is a never ending search for the perfect drive. And although many players would like to hit it in the short grass more often, that's not what propels them to the range every week.

Distance - that's really all most of us care about. If we didn't, we would be happy hitting it 150 yards straight down the middle. Been there - done that - got the nickname "Mrs. Roboto".

Although it's kind of cute (NOT!) when the golfguys I play with yawn and say, "It must be so boring to play in the fairway.", it never feels good that I'm the last to tee it up, but first to play my 2nd shot.

So in my quest to bomb it like Michelle Wie (check out the audience oohing and awing over her drive at last year's CN Women's Open), I subscribe to all the major golf magazines, and have my office TV set permanently to the Golf Channel. I figure that someday, somehow, a tip will reach my eyes or ears that will be the magic elixir to my dismal driving.

And this weekend I found one!

I've been trying to draw the ball off the tee since I first picked up a club. I've tried more tricks/techniques to hit the ball from the inside than I can count. Tucking my elbow in on my downswing - nope. Thinking of hitting the ball at 5 o'clock - nada. Trying to aim for an imaginary Ichiro in right field - bupkis!

So I've learned to live with my fade, which stays in the fairway but doesn't give me the distance I crave.

But last month's Private Lesson section in GOLF magazine had a tip called "Chin Music for Your Swing" that spoke to me.

It said you should move your left shoulder (for R-handed golfers) away from your chin on your downswing.

Now, I've always had a decent shoulder turn on my backswing, but I never thought about my left side at all on my downswing. I only thought about starting my downswing from the ground up and keeping my body as one unit through the turn.

But yesterday when I went to the range, I tried moving my left shoulder away from my chin on the downswing. On my first attempt I watched my ball draw to the left and carry 20 yards further than normal. Thinking it was a fluke, I tried it again, and again, and again. Bam Bam Bam! Woohoo!

And that one small change not only resulted in a longer drive, suddenly I wasn't falling out of my Footjoys on my finish.

Turning my shoulder away from my chin helped me follow through instead falling over. Ha!

So the lesson in all of this isn't about any specific golf tip. No, the lesson here is that the road to better golf is one small change at a time.

It's easy to become overwhelmed in this blasted sport. But instead of overhauling your swing every second week, be patient with yourself. It's probably not a big thing that's standing in your way of where you want to be.

Remember, it's the little things in life that make a big difference - and the same is true in golf.

Now...about those darn 3-putts...

Until next time...

Golfgal

Golf is like marriage

2011-09-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

We've all heard that golf is a metaphor for life and business but after attending probably the best wedding ever in my life (including my own), I’ve come to realize that golf is a lot like marriage. Or should I say, marriage is a lot like golf.

My lovely niece Vanessa and her golfguy Wes kicked off their marriage in August with a shotgun.

No, no...not THAT kind of shotgun! Get your heads out of the bunkers, people... I’m talking about a shotgun golf tournament!

I counted close to 50 people who showed up to shoot, drink and be merry. What a blast we all had!

It was a wonderful mix of golfgals and guys who were there to have a good time and really didn’t care how they scored.

Actually, that’s not true; my 2 nephews were trying to score with the cart girl all afternoon. ;)

The next day as I was lounging by the pool waiting for the ceremony later that day, it occurred to me that if we treated marriage the way we treat our golf games, then ‘‘one round’’ might all we need and divorce rates among golfers would the lowest in the country.

Think about it - to be successful in both golf and marriage you need:

Patience
Trust
Commitment
Practice
A little Luck

...And sometimes a good dose of amnesia. Bringing up past transgressions in a marriage is like hanging on to the agony of that last 3 putt - you gotta let it go or you’ll screw-ith up your next shot.

Gentlemen, taking your range game to the golf course isn’t easy; neither is treating your wife every day like it’s your first date. But you gotta find a way to do both.

Ladies, does your husband do something that just drives you crazy - are you constantly trying to change him? Sometimes it’s better to just play him as he lies.

Speaking of lies..

In golf and in holy matrimony, there are those lies that get us bunkered and some that are just unplayable. When you really screw up at home, take a drop, accept the penalty and then scramble. You will discover that saving par feels a whole lot better than a birdie after a foot wedge.

We all know it’s better to give than to receive, so be generous with gimmees on and off the course.

And the next you time you think of packing it in because no matter what you do, you seem to end up in a hazard, remember that marriage, like golf is played between your ears, not between the sheets.

Don’t give up when your relationship is in a slump. Tee it up one more time - a come back tomorrow shot is just around the dogleg and if you trust your swing, you may find yourself falling in love all over again.

So whether you’re out to play a round or play around, do it with the one you love.

I hate cliches but this one says it so well and is worth repeating, “Couples that play together, stay together.”

Play on Vanessa and Wes!

Golfgal

What's your handicap?

2011-09-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

I'm not talking about the factor you use to determine you net score in friendly competition. I'm talking about that obstacle standing in the way of you playing your best golf... and loving it!

I recently discovered mine and it had nothing to do with hooks, slices and yips. Here's my story...

Over a year ago I decided to spoil myself with a pedicure at a very high end spa in the city. During the vigorous foot massage the ethetician hit something in my right foot and caused me to almost jump out of the chair. Since that day, I've lived in pain. I have tried drugs, reflexology, acupuncture, chiropractology and orthodics. Nothing worked.

It didn't hurt to swing a club, but I couldn't walk more than 9 holes without limping. I started riding a cart when everyone else was hiking it. It broke my heart and my spirit. I started feeling old.

My golf game took a dive, shooting my index up almost 4 points. More than once, I thought about quitting, but then 2 months ago, something happened...

I was helping out my golf coach, Ginny Golding at an Adapted Golf Clinic where 15+ golfers who survived severe traumas were out to better their games.

Many of them were in wheelchairs; others could stand and walk, but had limited arm and shoulder mobility. But that didn’t stop any of them from whacking the ball as far as they possibly could, enjoying that sweet sound a good strike makes.

Meet Ed. Ed survived a stroke 5 years ago and has limited use of his left arm. So his is a one-handed swing using his right arm only; but when he connects with the ball, it soars!

Watching Ed and the others, I kept wondering what motivates them to keep trying. I think I would have given up.

“Everybody has challenges one way or another, whether it's cognitive or physical," Ed told me. "But if you continue to work hard, any physical condition should not prevent you from engaging in golf. It's a lifelong sport you should be able to play until you’re 100 if you really want to.”

It was a wake-up call for me - one that made me look at my game and my life from a new perspective - one of opportunity rather than one full of challenges. After that day, my thoughts about my insignificant disability changed and so did my golf game.

I fell in love with the sport all over again. I even started getting up at 5:00 AM to play 9 holes with my golfguy before heading into work. I couldn't get enough of the game whether I was walking or carting.

This weekend I finally entered all my scores into the RCGA Network for the year and discovered my handicap was the lowest it has ever been in my life - 17.4

I'm smiling now just thinking about it and the fact that I have a couple more months to get it under 17. There's no stopping me now!

I ask you again, "What's your handicap?" Mine isn't my foot; it's the 5 inches between my ears Bob Jones talked about. Henry Ford told us how to use those inches, "Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right."

So, if you really love something, and IF you fill those 5 inches with the power of positive thinking, you will find a way to enjoy what you love, no matter what life throws your way. I love golf. And as long as I'm on top of the fairways instead of under them, I'll be giving it my best shot ....Aaaaand loving it!

Golfgal

Golf's Future Suddenly Looks Brighter

2011-08-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

Last month the 2011 RBC Canadian Open (often referred to as “one of Major quality”) was a showcase for Vancouver, the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club and many of Canada’s future golf stars.

It was a weekend of great shots, good shots and good enough shots for 5 of the 17 Canadians in the field who made the cut, while many seasoned PGA Tour stars packed their golf bags early.

When moving day started on Saturday, there was almost a sixth sense in the gallery that we were about to witness something very special. Would July 2011 mark the passing of the torch from our current heroes (Mike Weir and Stephen Ames) to a new breed of young guns?

3 Canadian players stood out as “golfers to watch” (Adam Hadwin, Matt McQuillan and David Hearns) – hopefuls to take over the reigns from Weir and Ames in the not-too-distant future.

All talented players, they outperformed many recognized tour stars with McQuillan and Hearns finishing T31 and T34 respectively.

But the weekend belonged to Adam Hadwin with a 2 under par, T4 finish – one of only 8 players who closed off the weekend in the red.

With a horde of fans following him, Hadwin showed remarkable maturity and poise for someone with so little experience. A 39 on the front 9 on Sunday would have made many a contender throw in the Frogger, but not Adam. He rallied back with a 33 on the back 9 to tie for 4th in one of the PGA Tour’s most gruelling tests of golf.

Despite all my pessimism fed by reading so many reports of declining participation in golf, Adam Hadwin made me believe that Canada has a very promising future in golf.

After Saturday’s charge from someone who looks barely old enough to drive a car, I suddenly became more aware of all the youngsters who came out to cheer on their favourite players. It almost brought tears to my eyes to watch them compete with each other for bragging rights by soliciting a golf ball from one of their heroes.

This group alone secured golf balls from John Daly, Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey, Michael Thompson and Chad Campbell. I heard the tallest of the gang call out to the Big “D”, “Nice up and down, John!”, which awarded him one of JD’s infamous “balls to the gut” tosses that made the young lad believe he had “connected” with a great among greats. It was “a moment”!

I was also really touched by a sweetheart of a young golfgal in the group who wondered if Chad Campbell’s troubles on Saturday might have had something to do with her. “When he was doing really well yesterday, I think I took his lucky ball”, she said, “And then he started to do really bad.” Suddenly she looked so sad I almost took her into my arms.

The whole day on Sunday I was drawn to our next super stars who didn’t just want to watch the proceedings; they were ready to tee it up with the big guys!

Meet Sophia Strong. Hardly out of diapers, Sophia was experiencing the joys of gripping it and ripping it.

No sooner had the ball left the clubface that she was down the fairway ready for her next shot. No pace of play issues here!

Now, does she not look like the next Paula Creamer and Morgan Pressel all rolled into one? Her dad, Bradey told me she loves watching Sunday golf, sitting in front of the television cheering on the players. How sweet is that!

But you know, Sophia was just one of many. Everywhere I looked, there were parents with kids sporting the colours of their favorite golfer – like Pat Wilson , Don Ference and their two boys, Alex and Blair from Shaughnessy.

All decked out in their Rickie Fowler Puma duckbills, Alex and Blair waited patiently for the Orange Man to pass by their primo position on the 1st tee.

When I asked Alex why he loved golf, he did what all kids do – he told it like it is, “Well, you don’t need to be too fit…But still, it’s really fun.” I felt a tinge of embarrassment coming from the parents as he shared an honest assessment of this sport, but they should be proud – he’s right.

And that’s why golf is a game for life, whether you are young/old, short/tall, thin/fat. Golf transcends age, size, weight and even disabilities. It is truly a sport that is more about mental strength than physical. Remember what the great Bob Jones said, “Golf is a game that is played on a five-inch course - the distance between your ears.”

Obviously Blair and Alex adored Rickie Fowler based on their attire, but what really surprised me is that the next person they named as a favorite was slow-mo Ben Crane. Crane isn’t exactly the name that rolls off most kids’ tongues, but when I found out that the day before they had been watching his popularized Youtube videos, I understood why he was the next “fave” on their lists, with Bubba Watson, not far behind. Chock one up for social media in golf!

After leaving the Shaughnessy bros, I met up with Brent Lee and his two young amateurs from Tsawwassen, Charlotte and Beckett.

Dad Brent introduced the kids to the game at Pt. Roberts, a gorgeous tree-lined course just south of the BC border (you really must play it if you can), where they learned the short game of chipping and putting first before facing the Full Monty 18 holes. Smart dad! The kids love the game (and Rickie Fowler). Charlotte made of point of telling me she is also enrolled in the CN Future Links program and proudly sported her Girls Club pink hat.

All day I saw happy faces in the crowds cheering on their idols, but what really delighted me was running into 15 year old Hunter Phalen from Whistler.

Probably the youngest volunteer working inside the ropes, Hunter was delighted by his primo position at the 18th green, “ It’s a lot of fun and more juniors should be doing it,” he said.

Hunter was introduced to golf when he and a friend went to the driving range 4 years ago. Now, a avid competitor with a 5.5 handicap, “coming down rapidly”, Phalen is looking to share the fairways and maybe some limelight with his favorite US Open champion, Rory McIlroy.

After meeting so many wonderful parents and kids all day I kept wondering... Do the players really know the impact they are having on these youngsters or are they just playing “their own game”?

Some obviously do, like Rickie Fowler; while others don't appear to, like Anthony Kim who stormed off after his Saturday round without acknowledging a single fan. Sure he shot an 81 and sure he was DQ’d, but is that the example we want for our children?

But after a tough day on Saturday, Rickie didn’t disappoint. And after watching him sign autograph after autograph for the “Creamsicle Kids” who lined up 3 deep all along the fence outside the scoring trailer, I started thinking of trading in my Nike gear for Puma.

He was there so long, I actually got a bored and left. But about 40 minutes later when I passed by the putting green, there he was again signing hats, balls, programs…whatever. To say I was impressed would be an understatement.

This year’s Canadian Open had so many memorable moments, but the things I will remember the most are the faces of the next generation of young golfers as they sat under the ropes for hours or peaked through legs and bleachers to get the best view of their heroes while they imagined themselves there in a few years.

Sunday gave me hope and the timing couldn’t be better. In 2016 Canada will send our best to Rio for the first Olympic Golf Games since 1904. Canada’s George Lyon took home the gold that year and there’s no reason why another Canuck can’t do this same in Brazil.

Golfgal

What Golf Needs Isn’t Found in “The Woods”

2011-08-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

The 102nd playing of Canada’s National Open Golf Championship returned to Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club last month with all the fanfare one would expect – accolades about the stunning tree-lined course, the wealth of spectators and quality of field.

But as I walked the fairways and watched the players, volunteers and fans, I couldn’t help but reflect on the disturbing state of the golf industry – since 2000, the number of golfers in North America has been steadily declining, despite the Tiger affect . There just aren’t enough young people taking up the game.

So although the grandstands were full and fairways lined with spectators, the demographics of those in and outside the ropes reflected a typical day at most golf courses – ~70% male, marbled like fine prime ribs – well aged ;)

Now I’m the first to encourage people in their twilight years to take up this lifetime sport and I was happy to see so many retiree-hopefuls enjoying the event. But the fact remains that we baby boomers cannot sustain, let alone grow this industry, if we keep doing what we’re doing.

We need to attract young men and women to the sport early and keep them interested throughout their teenage years and beyond. To do that we need to think like them and evolve the sport so it fits their style, attitudes and needs.

We have to stop pushing the “traditions of golf” and recognize that the times they are a changing -- golf needs to keep up with the times.

Thankfully at this year’s Open, I witnessed a glimmer of hope in a few players, a few fans and a few fanatics that made me think we might be on the verge of something great.

I saw in this year’s Open, what golf needs…

1. Rule Breakers
2. Audacity
3. Twits
4. New Blood

Rule Breakers
Imagine if these 3 juniors walked into your golf club dressed like this, backward hats and all? Would you let them play that way?

And what would you say to this couple looking to tee off with their Canadian flags waving from cheek to cheek?

What about these colourful gents in their fancy pants. How many jaws would drop if they showed up at your next club championship?

Sad to say, but the dress codes at many courses are archaic. No wonder kids don’t want anything to do with their parents’ stuffy old clubs with their dull duds! Who wants to play at a club that won’t let them wear their hats the way they wear them everyday, or their Canucks jerseys during the playoffs?

Audacity

“Golf-speak” is getting out of control. Reporters don’t even have to attend press conferences anymore because they can quote players without ever hearing them speak. The “one shot at a time”, “I need to be patient out there” and “I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing” clichés are as much of a player’s repertoire as their pre-shot routine.

What golf needs is some respectful honesty. At this year’s Open, as much as I felt a tiny bit insulted at what Geoff Ogilvy had to say about the Shaughnessy Course, I am so happy he had the audacity to say what he thought, just as Bubba Watson did in Paris at the French Open a few weeks ago.

“This is a beautiful property,” said Ogilvy, “The greens are cool. But the bunkers are in the wrong places and the rough doesn’t allow recovery shots.” Ouch!

I know it’s tough to hear, but I find it a lot more refreshing than what the rest of them said, “It’s a great test of golf.” Ya ya ya…

Twits

Golf media is ripe with curmudgeons. Walk into any media tent and you’ll find an old boys’ network that believes that micro blogging is for twits and Facebook for fools.

Being the only female around, I wasn’t about to tell them social media was a more powerful communication tool than the newspaper they write for, with enough users to create the 3rd largest country in the world. That would likely have resulted in there being one less woman golf writer inside the ropes, making that a total of zero.

Sadly, most media outlets haven’t figured out how to engage with readers who embrace social media – many of whom are players and their fans. We must always remember, the game is more important than the media.

Ian Poulter, Stewart Cink, Rory McIlroy and yes, Rickie Fowler (with over 175,000 followers) are avid tweeters. It wasn’t long after today’s round that Rickie was tweeting about it.

Social media and citizen journalists (aka bloggers) are not fads and freaks, but fantastic opportunities for golf media. It’s time to learn it, use it and then exploit the heck out of it to grow this wonderful sport!

New Blood

For years it was like there was only one golfer on the planet - the world revolved around Tiger Woods. People believed that golf couldn’t exist without him and that we needed him to grow the sport. That’s just not true.

There are new kids in town who are turning our youth on to golf. And they’re not afraid of being themselves, shouting out loud with their own unique personalities, style and talent, “Hello World!”.

Move over Tiger… Orange is the new Red!

Golfgal

David Byrne is the Big Break Indian Wells Champion!

2011-07-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

...and $70,000 richer! Not too shabby for 11 days work. But like all things in David's life, it didn't come easy.

His story about how his mother and he worked multiple jobs and struggled to make ends meet, has been told more than once on this series. But it's worth remembering - David worked hard for his money his whole life and it's finally paying off.

David set a number of "firsts" on the Big Break as well.

1. He was the the youngest winner ever on the Big Break.
2. He faced the most elimination challenges (6 if you count this last match) and finally rid himself of being bottom of the money list.
3. His won his first professional career event he ever entered - here on the Big Break.

So let's hear now what David has to say about that day, what's next for him, his recommendations to the Golf Channel on future Big Breaks and his advice for those who dream of having their own ...

Just received this wonderful video from Paul Foster on Twitter (@biztherapistpf) of David's evening with friends in Essex, watching him win his Big Break. I have goosebumps after watching it.

Carl joined me today to wrap up this series with his commentary about the show, David and Kent's performance, and what he thinks separates champions from those who just make a living on the PGA Tour.

Shank shared his thoughts on this week's show and why he thought this series was so successful. Even though he didn't take home the money, he left with a renewed belief in himself and love for the game...

Thank you David, Carl and Robbie for your friendship and being so gracious about doing these interviews every week. You guys are the best!!!

This was David's first professional win in his career and I doubt very much it will be his last. There's something special about Champions on the Tour - those that never give up, never surrender. Darren Clarke had what it took at the Open after 20 years of grinding and persevering through personal adversities.

Just like Darren, David has what it takes and I hope IT takes him all the way!

Until the next Big Break...

Golfgal

Big Break Indian Wells 9: Canada Versus Jamerica

2011-07-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

Carl certainly named this show appropriately didn't he? I don't know about you, but for me it was as exciting as a Ryder/President Cup match or the Stanley Cup, but this time around, Canada prevailed.

The Canucks (Kent and David) shut down Jamerica (Carl and Will) in two nail-biting matches that were so indicative of this entire series. Mano-a-mano - the guys fought tirelessly to win, and all four contestants should be extremely proud of how they performed, win or lose.

It was disappointing to see Carl leave the show, but it was hard to be really sad because of what he did for the show and all of us who watched - he showed us the power of positive thinking and inspired us all to be the best that we can be. He gave us a gift.

I asked Carl about the impact the show has had on his life and of course, talked about the match with Kent. I soon discovered there was much more to this competition than we saw...

Meanwhile, David had to sit and watch them go at it hole after hole after hole, stiffening up on the bench before he facing Will. It could not have been easy to hurry up and wait to see if he would make it to the final show...

Robbie also joined me this week to share his thoughts on the final four and the ultimate elmination of his buddie, Carl, by Kent.

Next week is a battle of room mates and fellow countrymen. I'm excited to see how the Golf Channel takes us beyond normal stroke/match play and ties the whole series back to...It's all about the money!

Until then...
Golfgal

Big Break Indian Wells 8: Shank may be gone...

2011-07-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

....but he won't soon be forgotten after this week's show. There's a new SHANK in town!

I can't ever remember a Big Break episode with such emotion and such a grand finale as this week's, and it's not even the last show! My mouth dropped more than once, whether it was from Carl's amazing 3-wood or Robbie's surprise revelation at the end. Wow!

And when it was all over, I had a sudden urge to yell at the TV, "Robbie, who are you and what have you done to Shank?"

Did the Big Break and Carl's friendship really transform this good ole country boy into a new man? Oh yay!

I knew at some point in this series I was going to have to start saying goodbye to my new friends on this Big Break. I love all three of these guys and I knew a 3-way tie wasn't in the cards. But as much as I knew it could happen, I had trouble picturing Carl and Robbie battling for survival. Imagine how they must have felt. I guess the only way to know is to ask them...

First up, the man of the hour...

Caught up with Carl today as he was reflecting back on that day...

And then there's the man who's been living in the pressure cooker for too many shows. How does he stay so calm?

So...it was a sad show in many respects, but an inspirational one as well. Robbie touched many BB fans in the US of A during this series. And having his transformation revealed on Independence Day...well, I can't think of a better way to give hope to all of us. It's never too late to start a new beginning.

Until next week...
Golfgal

Big Break Indian Wells 7: Double Trouble

2011-06-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

I guess it was inevitable that there would be an episode with two eliminations in it, given that Petey had come back and we only had a few shows left, but I was still thrown for a loop on how it happened.

Imagine how the Music Man felt that morning. John had just paid the price for avoiding elimination the night, handing over $3,500; and suddenly he's right back in a life & death again situation. Talk about your loss of appetite!

John was always considered one of the favorites on the Big Break IW and yet he lost to the first man who "left" in the field in show 1. Strange...

And even stranger was how he was eliminated. I would never have thought John would be taken down in a putting contest, given he has a fabulous short game practice area in his back yard, But in the battle of dueling broomsticks, Petey sent John packing...with his clubs, his guitar and a sad song.

But...Petey did not get off easy that day. No one can argue that the "elimination expert" had more than his share of make or break challenges in this series. And although his resurrection was short lived, it was a real pleasure to see him get a second chance to show his stuff on this show. And he has a lot of good stuff!

Sadly, his stuff was not quite good enough to beat the clutch putts from David Byrne.

Whew, that was a close one for my fellow Canuck! If I hadn't been taking notes for this week's interviews, I'd have been biting my nails to the quick. That was the most stressful show I've seen yet. Imagine what the players felt!

Okay, so let's ask them :)

But first I have a special guest - David's golf coach, Luke LaFave. I had the great pleasure of chatting with Luke before the show. I wanted to find out why David said to me that "Luke is the reason why my swing has changed so much for the better. He's the only one I trust with it."

I wonder how Luke was feeling watching the show tonight (or if he has any fingernails left). Haha!

So let's hear from the man of the hour - the one who had us sitting on the edge of our seats up here in the great white north...

Robbie joined me to talk about his thoughts on the rollercoaster day, his opinion of long putters and his new enterprise...

Check out http://www.cafepress.com/shankgolf and order a T-shirt, cap or mug. I'm definitely going to grab a few for myself and gifts for friends who are afraid to say the "S" word ;)

I connected with Carl today and enjoyed a chuckle or two over the drama of the day, the emotions of the teams and the twists the Golf Channel has introduced this season on the Big Break. The past - it will haunt you!

Next week sounds exciting and just a little scary. I can't wait!

Until then...
Golfgal

Big Break IW 6: Oren is Ousted

2011-06-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

How does a golfer putt from 35+ yards out and get it to tap-in range at the hole and then miss the next putt? I guess we'd have to ask Oren - this week's Big Break eliminated contestant.

No question, given 100 chances to make that short putt, Oren would have sunk it 99 times. But isn't it always the way? It's the inches that will kill you in golf, not the hundreds of yards it takes to get to that point. I realize it wasn't that particular putt that sent him walking, but it certainly couldn't have helped his confidence with the flat stick later in the show.

I really like Oren. What a great smile, eh? And he was a terrific contestant on the Big Break. Like Russell, his is a man who served his country proudly and was awarded several medals and honors.

He showed such integrity and even kindness throughout the series; I hope that he doesn't give up his dream. But...given how he loves to gamble, I'm betting that he won't ante up without a good fight!

But Oren wasn't the only storyline this week. Petey proved he deserved to be back in contention, capturing his 3.5 points faster than you can say, "Game on!" I'm really curious how the guys all felt about that.

David, Carl and Robbie were with me once again (love these guys!!!) to share their thoughts on Petey's comeback and Oren's elimination.

Up first, David, with some insights into creative editing that made the show that much more exciting...

Carl provides some new information about his match with Oren - love getting behind-the-scenes scoop on things we didn't see...

Robbie sets the record straight on John's play and what makes this Big Break group so special from all the rest...

Thanks guys for everything! Looking forward to watching next week's show and chatting with you once more. Until then...keep it in the short grass.

Golfgal