Ottawa Golf Blog

Sweet Looking Lightweight Puma Faas Lite Mesh Golf Shoes Now Available

2013-05-15T21:06:00.000-04:00

Rickie Fowler was wearing some Puma Faas Lite Mesh Golf Shoes on Tour back in January now we can wear the lightest shoes in golf. At only 6.5 ounces these golf sneakers are sure to be popular with the minimalist crowd.

The shoes have a zero heel-to-toe drop which gives golfers a barefoot feeling and allows for a more natural stride and posture during the swing. The Faas Lite Mesh also features strategically placed corrugated flex grooves, SmartQuill traction technology, Evertrack carbon rubber in the forefoot, and an OrthoLite sockliner.

Available in Blue/Limeade, Vibrant Orange/White and White/Black for men and Black/Virtual Pink or White/Brilliant Blue for women (which is even lighter at 5.5 ounces), Puma looks like it has a winner!

Full Press Release
PUMA Golf Debuts the Lightest Shoe in Golf, the Faas Lite Mesh

CARLSBAD, Calif. (May 15, 2013) -- PUMA Golf has officially announced the release of the Faas Lite Mesh – the lightest shoe in golf.

“Weighing in at only 6.5 ounces, the Faas Lite Mesh is lighter than other golf shoes in the market,” commented Tom Manthe, Global Marketing Manager, PUMA Golf. “The new, spikeless footwear style is designed to take you from the street to the course in lightweight, maximum comfort and trend-setting style.”

Inspired by minimalist running, the zero heel-to-toe drop gives golfers a barefoot feeling and allows for a more natural stride and posture during the swing. The zero heel-to-toe drop refers to the sole of the shoe staying the same height, much like a foot would stand if wearing no shoe.

Strategically placed corrugated flex grooves move with the foot for a more natural movement. The grooves provide optimal flexibility and increases ground contact throughout the swing for improved traction and stability.

Additionally, the Faas Lite Mesh features SmartQuill traction technology that provides directional grip elements to enhance ground contact for improved stability and traction. Evertrack® carbon rubber in the forefoot and heel provide long lasting durability and an OrthoLite® sockliner provides long lasting comfort and enhanced fit, so golfers can rock the Faas Lite Mesh comfortably round after round.

In addition to the lightest shoe in golf, PUMA Golf will be releasing the Faas Lite, an extremely lightweight and waterproof golf shoe. A combination of FaasFoam+ (a proprietary blend of foam and rubber that is 25% lighter than previous foams) and lightweight materials in the lining package and tongue create an extremely light and comfortable shoe that weighs just 8.7oz. Microfiber leather with stormCELL provides super lightweight performance and waterproof protection. Like the Faas Lite Mesh, zero heel-to-toe drop, corrugated flex grooves and SmartQuill traction technology is found in the Faas Lite to deliver a lightweight, performance golf shoe.

The lightweight technology is packed with unquestionable style in three colorways for both the Faas Lite and Faas Lite Mesh. The Faas Lite Mesh is available in Brilliant Blue/Limeade, Vibrant Orange/White and White/Black and the Faas Lite is available in White/Vibrant Orange, White/Black/Brilliant Blue and Black/Castle Rock. All styles come with two laces, one tonal and one pop color for golfers to customize their footwear look.

The Faas Lite Women’s and Faas Lite Mesh Women’s have all the same features and benefits as the men’s versions but weigh in even lighter at 7.0 oz and 5.5 oz, respectively. Women can choose from two colorways: White/PUMA Silver/Virtual Pink and Black/White/Virtual Pink in the Faas Lite Women’s and Black/Virtual Pink and White/Brilliant Blue in the Faas Lite Mesh Women’s.

PUMA Golf will also be releasing a limited edition version, the Faas Lite Splatter. Taking inspiration from Rickie Fowler’s ‘Golf Art’ in 2010 and the graphic designs on COBRA Golf’s AMP CELL line of products, the Faas Lite Splatter features paint splatter designs on a white outsole with an orange formstripe. For more information, visit puma.com/golf

Ashworth Golf's Funny #PantsPetition Video

2013-05-15T15:49:00.001-04:00

I pretty much wear shorts golfing all the time so why not let the pros shed their pants for some shorts. Ashworth Golf has put together a brilliant video of a few players from their stable of paid golfers that just want to wear shorts for some awesome reasons. Check out the results they are fabulous. Retief Goosen and Johnson Wagner steal the show. Sign the petition now!(for fun you can win some cool Ashworth stuff if you live in the USA).

Golf Book Review: Kinetic Golf: Picture The Game Like Never Before

2013-05-13T21:54:00.002-04:00

Pictures That Will Help Your Golf Game

Kinetic Golf: Picture The Game Like Never Before

Book Review

Kinetic Golf: Picture The Game Like Never Before was a great read for the start of the season here in the Ottawa area. A quick read, you could glance back at sections you might want to focus more for your own golf game. I really didn’t know much about the author Nick Bradley but after reading his bio (see below) Nick is pulling from many avenues of his professional life.

Consultant, coach, author, and course designer Nick Bradley is a frequent contributor to Golf Digest, Golf World, Golf International, and Golf Monthly. Bradley has worked with some of the world’s top golfers, including Ryder and Walker Cup players, and winners on the European Tour and British Open. A London native, he now resides in North Carolina.

For me visualizing my shot is an important part of my golf game. When I do it properly my game is better. Nick Bradley takes visualization to a whole new level with this book and some of his keys to the game I’ve already started to incorporate into my game. In Kinetic Golf, Bradley uses 100+ amazingly photo-shopped photographs, accompanied by his words to help both amateurs and professional with their golf game.

Here's a few of my favorites:

The High Shot- Shrink For Lofty Goals

The Image: Bradley on a skateboard with driver favoring his right side which is way smaller in the picture.

Hopeful Outcome: A high ball that goes forever

Baseball Bat It from Sidehill Lies

The Image: Bradley with a bat hitting baseball out of a birds nest on a sidehill lie

Hopeful Outcome: Always a tough shot Bradley makes it easier to get that positive outcome.

The Fairway Bunker: Don't Crack The Egg, Because You Might Lose More Than a Shot!

The Image: Bradley's in a bunker ball resting on the tip of a Mommy T-Rex's egg with Mommy standing over said golfer

Hopeful Outcome: Catch the ball clean with a nice sweeping arc golf swing a la Jack Nicklaus. Your out!

Don't Clown Around with Sucker Pins!

The Image: Bradley in the fairway with a clown holding the pin right side of the green a few steps away from the gnarliest bunker you've ever seen.

Hopeful Outcome: Play to left of the pin for a easy two putt.

The Short Putt: Don't Be The Grim Reaper; Be The Happy One!

The Image: The grim reaper standing over Bradley the putter with some grooming sheers ready for any movement.

Hopeful Outcome: No gimmes, make your short putts with a steady head through the putting stroke.

Stretch Your Way to the Top

The Image: Bradley stretching out a snake from neck to tip

Outcome: Feeling the width and torque through the stretching of your swing.

The whole Images of Motivations, Attitudes, and Affirmations section is probably the section ever golfer should read at least a few times. As with most golfers the brain can sometimes get in our way of enjoying the fun that is golf. Make sure you read this a few times.

Most of the time as golfers are brains can get muddles by words Bradley uses some powerful imagery for a different yet effective way to improve your golf game. Check it out for $29.95 USD (Hardcover) at various retailers.

Knew I Should Of Got The G25 Instead of The R1 - Louis Oosthuizen's 500 yard drive

2013-04-29T14:27:00.003-04:00

Got a email from Score Golf this morning and the headlines were as follows: HORSCHEL'S MAIDEN WIN; DRUG TESTING; AND 500 YARD DRIVES

So of course I have to click on the link to the 500 Yard Drive even though we all know it's the short game we should be practicing, right?

I know the cart path helps ole Louis out but it's still cool to watch. Louis Oosthuizen hits a colossal 500 yard drive with the help of a nearby cart path during the second round of the Ballantine's Championship in Korea. .

Duck Dynasty Meets The PGA Tour

2013-04-24T21:24:00.001-04:00

Well I've never seen an episode of Duck Dynasty but you know what I kinda dig these guys. They obviously like golf and think the world of Bubba Watson. They like to have fun plus they got great beards and great golf threads.Check out some pics from GolfWRX.com from this week's tour stop, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans Pro-Am at TPC Louisiana.

Bubba got to play with brothers Willie and Jase Robertson and Duck Commander empire associate Justin Martin.

The Guys from Duck Dynasty on Morning Drive before their Pro-Am tee time at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

Barefoot Resort and Golf Club | Love Course Golf Course Review

2013-04-18T17:11:00.003-04:00

The Barefoot Resort and Golf Club facility in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a spectacular golfing mecca boasting 4 spectacular championship courses designed by Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Davis Love and Greg Norman. While vacationing in the Grand Strand area I had the chance to golf at the "Love Course". What a treat, as Davis Love III really knew what he was doing when he designed this traditional style golf course with so much South Carolina charm. Nice generous landing areas and Bermuda grass greens stretching more than 7,000 yards this course is fun for all levels of golfers just be sure you play off the right set of tees. I played off the whites and shot a respectable 93 my buddies who don't play a lot of golf played from the whites as well and had a great time. The tips play to 7047 yards with a slope of 139, while alternate sets play to distances and slopes measuring 6542 yards/133 slope, 6055 yards/126 slope for men and 127 for women, 5643 yards/121 slope and 5336 yards with a slope of 124 for ladies hitting from the forward tees.

We arrived at Barefoot Resort, I though somewhat early but I had made an error with our tee time. So we ended up being late. The staff was great and they fit us in nicely. The Norman, Fazio and Love courses are all serviced by the same charming clubhouse. The day we played there was a definite buzz all around the clubhouse with golfers everywhere. I can imagine it's always like this, compliments to the staff as I was impressed with their attitude and customer service with us arriving late for our tee time.

We ended up teeing off the 10th hole which I had no problem with, after all I was in the area on vacation and to golf. So off we went on the 10th hole.

It was almost good we ended up teeing off on the back 9 at the Love Course as the 10th and 11th holes are very straight forward holes that were good warm up holes for our group as we had no time to warm up. The par-4 10th plays only 321 yd. from the White tees so with a nice draw here it can set up a fairly easy approach into this green just beware of the waster bunker. Can be very penalizing for some. The 11th a short par at 109 yd. with the right club can set up a birdie chance just be weary of the small green.

Number #13 was one of my favorite holes at Barefoot Resort. It's both scenic and challenging even though at 447 yd. it's a relatively short par 5. From the tee you have to decide to either take your drive down the right side where you might run out of fairway and wind up in water or down the left side which makes the hole longer. For most golfers you'll be laying up. With your second shot just make sure you avoid the trouble on the right side, lots of bunkers and water. The green is smallish and contoured so par is a good score on this hole.

Number #14 is a tough par 4 similar to #13 only the trouble here is on the left side. Tough for those who overdraw or hook the ball on occasion. Again your second shot is into a large elevated tiered green. Good luck with this one.

The #15 hole is a straight away slightly uphill par 3 just be careful with the wind here as if it's into your face make sure you club up. Managed a par on this hole, again be careful of the undulations of the green here.

No. 16 is another one of those fun holes, a little risk reward here again with a split fairway. Be sure and be right of the large bunker obstacle in the middle of the fairway. If your accurate with your drive you'll set yourself up for a birdie opportunity. If your on the left side your just setting yourself up for a blind second shot.

Managed a par on the 17th but this is tough par 4 playing at 389 yd. from the white tees. Hit your shot between bunkers then be prepared for a elevated green with bunkers everywhere plus false-fronted green. I'm not sure how I managed par here but sometimes it pays to be lucky.

Off to the 18th a 534 yd. par 5. Quite a large landing area but I played a draw around the corner where it opens up even more. With water down the left side of the hole on your approach most won't go for it in two. It's better to play a wedge into this hole. Play for the middle of the green and sign for your par. Tough hole!

From 18 we headed over to the first tee where a short little par 4 lay. Hit your tee ball between the bunkers and your good to go for this green. A definite birdie opportunity.

Number two is a shortish dogleg par. We real weary of this green it's crowned with lots of trouble scattered near. Not a long par 5 but can be really hard if not played smart.

Hole #3 is a 144yd. par 3 that played into the wind the day we played with water down the right side this hole is visually intimating and the narrow long green doesn't help with the visual as well. Be happy with a par here.

Holes #4 & #6 Barefoot Resort - Love Course
These two holes are just plain fun, scenic and full of history. I've never played a hole on a golf course where the backdrops are old plantation ruins but that's what you get when you play these holes. Bring your iPhone because if your like me you'll be taking lot of photos. Below are just a few samples. They are recreated ruins but it's still very cool. Hole #4 is an uphill par and at about 265 yd. from the white tees your definitely hitting driver on this hole for a possible eagle of birdie putt. Just a real fun, scenic hole.

Hole #6 is a beautiful par 4 at 340 yd. This hole plays tough especially with the wind. With trouble down both the left and right sides, beware bunkers can easily gobble up your ball. Your second shot with a good drive will leave you with a wedge in but remember bunkers surround the green as well. Two great holes that you'll remember big time!

On the 7th hole Davis Love decided to lay some bunkers down just to visually intimate the golfer on his/her tee shot. If you can keep it right of the two bunkers your second i played in to a tough green with lots of slopes.

The 8th hole is the only hole I kind of go this is is a terrible layout as your tee shot is blind. Which is something most golfers don't like. Once you get around the corner at least you get to see this pretty yet difficult par 5. Your shot into the green has to be precise as there's marsh/water in the front with an undulating green as your target. Tough hole!

We ended up finishing on Barefoot's long par 3 9th hole. A real tough hole into the wind, it plays 187 yards from the white tees with most trying to chip in for par. Great way to end the day of golf. My buddy even had a birdie putt. (although he missed)

Conclusion
Barefoot's Love Course was a real treat to play. Great March conditions but who doesn't like playing golf when there's snow on the ground back in Canada. I liked the fact Davis Love likes wide fairways for your drives but he decided to add just a few bunkers (71 soft sand bunkers including sand waste areas) and water hazards to penalize any wayward shot. All skills of golfers will have fun on this golf course

The greens can poise a problem for some golfers just play smart. With a plethora of greenside bunkers with a great mix of crowned, tiered and undulating greens. Skilled and not so skilled golfers will have plenty of memorable holes at the Love Course at Barefoot Resort.

My favorite holes had to be #4 and #6 with the recreated plantation ruins. The highlight of my Grand Strand Golf Experience. A must play for anyone in the area. Greens fees range from $105-$185 depending on the time of year but can be discounted more as well what day and time you play as well. Let me know your thoughts?

Kikkor's Most Epic Shoe Ever - The One Of A Kind Kikkor Masterer

2013-04-15T20:42:00.002-04:00

The one of a kind Limited Edition Kikkor Masterer (only one pair made!) hand painted by Social Statement can be yours. Featuring two of golf’s most notable Masterers, Jack and Arnie, along with the unmistakable Masters Leaderboard, and unique Kikkor-Masterer branding.

100% of the proceeds will go to the charity of your choice. You can bid on the item on eBay, or buy it outright now for the listed $5,000 USD.

Sizing Note
Pair is US men's size 9, but really, are you going to play in these shoes? We suggest you keep them to the trophy case.

Adam Scott Wins 2013 Masters Final Sudden Death Hole Video

2013-04-14T20:46:00.000-04:00

Tell me you weren't praying for Australian Adam Scott to win the Masters. That's one sweet swingin' Aussie, congrats Adam and Australia on your first green jacket.

Masters-Inspired Gear For Your Spring Golf

2013-04-13T13:30:00.001-04:00

With so many folks glued to Masters coverage this weekend how about some Masters-inspired gear to fill out your spring golf list. I've already order my Asher Golf glove along with a Masters-inspired trucker hat from Asher Gloves. Which ones are on your list?

Really contemplating a new bag this year and this green and white inspired Masters bag might just do the trick from Jones Golf Bag Company. Simplify and golf.

I have done a few reviews on ECCO golf shoes. One of the most comfortable shoes you'll golf in, why not try the ECCO BIOM Hybrid Golf’s first and only performance hybrid. The BIOM Hybrid will be worn by Freddie Couples this week. Check out Freddie's awesome ECCO's.Go Freddie!

Here's a great giveaway only for Canadians. 2013 Team Titleist T-shirt Sweepstakes. Who doesn't want a Masters-inspired t-shirt from Titleist. Free to enter!

This limited edition T-Shirt of the month celebrates one of our favorite times of the year. From now through the end of the week, don't miss out on your chance to receive a piece of Travis Mathew history!

Last but not least a LE Monoline Cap Headcover from Cobra/Puma

Masters Champions Dinner The Last 20 Yummy Years

2013-04-10T22:00:00.001-04:00

Created by http://www.cable.tv

Rickie’s New Custom Puma AMP Cell Fusion Masters Shoes

2013-04-09T21:12:00.002-04:00

This is the look I like the best so far this week at Augusta. Rickie has been strolling the fairways of Augusta this week working on his game for the years first major. The white shirt and pants are perfect with the Puma AMP Cell Fusion Masters Shoes and green hat. What are your thought? Great photos from GolfWRX.com at the Augusta - Masters Range.

Keegan Bradley's Six Day Tommy Hilfiger Masters Script

2013-04-06T12:05:00.001-04:00

Our friends over at BeaverGolf.com have a great take on apparel scripting for the Masters with Keegan Bradley and Tommy Hilfiger in the spotlight. Be sure and check it out here at BeaverGolf.com.

Masters Apparel Scripts - Rickie Fowler/Puma - Bubba Watson/Oakley

2013-04-06T11:34:00.001-04:00

Once again with the Masters we get the proverbial apparel scripts two of the better ones from Puma for Rickie Fowler and for Bubba Watson from Oakley.

Here's a summary of his shirts from Oakley:

Thursday: Oakley Fade Polo. Sublimated stripes give big rippers like Bubba a look that sets them apart from the common crowd. Our O Hydrolix yarns keep him dry, and engineered flat seams free movement, eliminate abrasion and max out comfort.

Friday: Cross Cut Polo. Soft on the skin and built to breathe, this performance polo is optimized with Oakley O Hydrolix yarns to manage moisture. Angle stripes play off each other for original style while engineered flat seams let Bubba play hard by making sure every swing, pitch and putt is friction-free.

Saturday: Must Have Polo. This Oakley original takes Bubba beyond the links when the look and feel of a favorite lifestyle polo, and when he's swinging his signature pink driver, the fully treated O Hydrolix yarns keep him cool, dry and comfortable.

Sunday: Side Door Polo. One of the quickest drying yarns in the industry, Oakley O Hydrolix optimizes comfort to keep Bubba cool and focused when he's up against tough putts. Engineered burn-out side panels maximize ventilation, and the look salutes Bubba's pure originality.

Apparel Review: Antigua Golf Performance Polos

2013-04-05T20:51:00.001-04:00

Being able to golf in March in Myrtle Beach was a real treat considering we're still a few weeks away from golf here in the Ottawa Valley. Testing out some new apparel was great fun as well, along with Antigua's Leader Pullover I was able to test out a couple of polos from Antigua's Performance Collection.

Here's the specs on the two Antigua golf shirts I got to test out:

Tempo Performance Polo
• 97% Polyester/3% Spandex Desert Dry™ moisture management
• Yarn dyed stripe jersey short sleeve polo w/ 3-button placket
• Two color cuffs and collar with contrast tipping
• Antigua branding on right sleeve
Sizes: M-XXL
Color: White/Smoke/Lapis
Price: $65

Jagged Performance Polo
• 97% Polyester/3% Spandex Desert Dry™ moisture management
• Jacquard tonal mini-houndstooth pattern short sleeve polo with 3-button placket
• Self fabric collar, open sleeves and solid inside back yoke & under collar.
• Antigua branding on right sleeve
Sizes: M-XXL
Color: Black/Steel
Price: $65

Both of these golf shirts are part of Antigua's Spring '13 PERFORMANCE-72 Collections. The Tempo polo incorporating the color Lapis (blue hue) which is one of six new colors introduced to Antigua's designs: Margarita, Apple, Melon, Phlox, and Zest being the others. Top marks to Antigua on this brighter, bolder color palette definitely will appeal to a broader market.

Although it wasn't really hot in Myrtle Beach when I was there the Antigua golf shirts performed beautifully. Antigua's Desert Dry fabric technology kept me dry with great moisture wicking properties. As well these shirts were super lightweight with no restrictions to my golf swing.

The Antigua Tempo Polo was the more stylish of the two polos with it's yarn dyed horizontal stripes and contrast tipped cuffs and flat knit two-color. Antigua has a shirt that all ages will like.

Conclusion
Antigua's Desert Dry moisture management fabric gets full marks lightweight, comfortable and stylish. At $65 it's more reasonable priced with polos of the same type. Antigua's Performance-72 (PRF-72) Golf Apparel epitomizes what golf fashion should be, fun, stylish, comfortable and affordable.

Masters Memories and Memorabilia

2013-04-04T21:24:00.000-04:00

As avid golfers most are chomping at the bit to get out on the golf courses here in Ottawa area. Many of us have returned from places like Myrtle Beach and low and behold it still feels like winter. We’re aching to test out our new driver and irons. Heck we’d be happy with practicing putting outside.

For most next week marks the start of spring as the first Major “The Masters” starts next Thursday April 11^th. There’s Amen Corner, Rae’s Creek, Hogan Bridge, Nelson Bridge and the Sarazen Bridge. Azaleas in bloom with fairways and greens like no other golf course in the world and of course golfers battling it out for the elusive green jacket.

Ever year since they’ve made tickets available online I’ve applied like countless other avid golfers. Still haven’t had the luck and won. I know eventually it will happen as my birthday (April 13^th) usually falls around the Masters.

Stumble on to a couple of interesting Masters related websites recently. Say you’re not able to attend the Masters this year. Well the folks at MMO Golf will be your very own personal shopping for Masters Merchandise. Want a 2013 Masters Embroidered Golf Pin Flag. MMO Golf will purchase it for you because they have access to Augusta during the week of the Masters and that’s the only way to get merchandise. Unless your actually there. Just browsing their site there’s a host of things to pre-order for the golfer in your life.

The Golf Auction site is another really cool site for those looking for golf memorabilia. They’re an auction house and they are having a 1000 lot auction during Masters Week. Amazing memorabilia like a Bubba Watson Signed 2012 Masters Pin Flag. Looking for a 1939 Masters Tournament Clubhouse Pinback Badge - Issued to Bobby Jones Atlanta Neighbor The Golf Auction has one for auction. Rare stuff too like a 1963 Masters Final Round Final Scores DisplayCard (Jack Nicklaus Victory).

Browse the sites for some Masters Memories and memorabilia.

2013 Masters Golf Pool

2013-04-02T21:33:00.000-04:00

Even though we're still not golfing in the Ottawa area the Masters is just around the corner. So for those golf fanatics looking to see how they might stack up in a Golf Pool look no further than the golf pools Séamus Maher runs. The Masters happens April 11th - 14th so get in on the action. I've been joining for years lots of fun, if you have any questions just contact me for questions.

These are the following Masters Golf Pools:

- Craig's Big 5 pool
- Grand Slam pool
- Masters Elimination Pool.

1) Craig's Big 5 Pool
You select a team of 12 golfers to compete at the 4 Majors and the Players Championship (5th Major). Total Player Earnings of contestant's selection's over the 5 events will determine winners. There are payouts for each event in addition to an overall ending payout. The entry fee for this pool is $20 and payable before start of play.

All the pool details are at:
http://goforthegreengolfpools.com/big5/index.htm

2) Grand Slam Pool
You select players in each event however and you only can use the same player in 2 of the 4 events. Total Player Earnings of contestant's selection's over the 4 Majors will determine winners. There are payouts for each event and an overall Grand Slam ending payout. The entry fee for this pool is $40 payable in 2 installments of $20 due on April 10th & June 1st.

All the pool details are at:
http://goforthegreengolfpools.com/grandslam/index.htm

3) Masters Elimination Pool
The top 60 ranked players from the tournament field will be selected and divided into 4 performance groups of 15 based on World Tour Rankings. You select 1 payer from each performance group. The Contest is stroke play, meaning the aggregate score for the contestant's four golfers will determine their position relative to the other contestants. If any of the golfers selected misses the cut, the contestant will be eliminated from the contest. The entry fee for this pool is $20 and payable before start of play.

All the pool details are at:
http://goforthegreengolfpools.com/masters/index.htm

To participate in any or all of these pools, sign up now at:

http://goforthegreengolfpools.com/formmail/signup.htm

Golf Videos of the Week! Sergio in a Tree, Tiger Ready To Rumble

2013-03-26T19:31:00.000-04:00

Sergio Garcia plays a miraculous recovery shot from a tree, one-handed no less.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 does not feature fighting, which is highlighted in this video but a plethora of present day and legendary golfers. The Xbox 360 version of this game is also the first in the series to feature full support for the Kinect. The release of the video is also well-timed considering who just won the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Tiger Woods picked up his 77th PGA Tour victory on Monday. Tiger Woods with the win means he is once again the top-ranked golfer in the world for the first time in 29 months. What do you think about Woods and Palmer fighting thugs in The Rumble?

SeeMore Z Series Putters Spotted at Tampa Bay Championship

2013-03-22T15:36:00.000-04:00

Ted Gallina from SeeMore Putters posted some great pics of their new upcoming line, the zSeries Tour Limited Line from the Tampa Bay Championship. Here some info on their new line of putters set to be released soon. What are your thoughts?

***SeeMore Putter Company Introduces New zSeries Tour Limited now available.

The zSeries Tour Limited is a new exclusive series designed to offer the SeeMore loyalist and new fans alike a completely new look while still remaining true to the core benefits of RifleScope Technology. The zSeries comes in several exciting options in both a blade and mallet design. Each zSeries Tour Limited head is 100% milled in the USA from 303 stainless steel with milling patterns designed for the ultimate feel and roll. The zSeries Tour Limited heads offer the golfer a variety of sole weight options including 2 milled aluminum and 2 milled stainless custom heel and toe weights with each putter, which will allow the golfer to fine tune and customize swing weight, feel, and toe release patterns. Each owner of a zSeries Tour Limited putter will also be informed of new options to be created in the future for additional customization options.

Apparel Review: Antigua Leader Pullover

2013-03-21T20:00:00.000-04:00

Antigua Apparel Impresses In Myrtle Beach
I got to initially test out my Antigua Leader Pullover here in Canada during my job as a Canada Post mail carrier but I was really ready to test it out on my golf trip to the Myrtle Beach area last week. This was my first time wearing Antigua apparel which coincidentally was worn by first time PGA Tour Winner Kevin Streelman last week as he won the PGA Tampa Bay Championship. As well on the LPGA Tour now World #1 Stacey Lewis wore Antigua Apparel in winning the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup.

"Kevin Streelman has worked very hard at perfecting his game and his hard work paid off with his first PGA TOUR at the Tampa Bay Championship," says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "We are very excited to have Kevin wear our new 2013 performance golf apparel on the PGA TOUR and this is a great honor, as well as showcase, for us.

"Stacy's victory at the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup in Phoenix more than validates her number one ranking aspirations," says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "We are very proud to have Stacy Lewis wear our exciting 2013 apparel on the LPGA tour."

Antigua has been a leading apparel designer and marketer of not only men’s apparel but women’s and children’s as well for over 30 years. I was excited to test out the Leader pullover.

Once you put on the Antigua Leader pullover you realize this is one stylish, high-performance jacket. While it was perfect for my early morning rounds in Myrtle Beach or if the wind was howling later in the day. You'd probably need something warmer for those cooler Fall and early Spring rounds here in Canada. Like I said earlier I ended up wearing my Leader Pullover as a layer during my full-time job as a mail carrier with Canada Post so this pullover is extremely versatile both on and off the course.

Made of a 84% polyester and 16% spandex mix, and features a ¼ zip with self-fabric stand-up collar. The Leader is part of Antigua's Performance Golf Collection. The Leader Pullover is extremely light and never once impeded my golf swing.

My Leader Pullover's main colour was smoke accented with a melon contrast inside the neck and zipper teeth. The Leader Pullover comes in a plethora of colours. Check out the other colours available in Antigua's online store here.

Conclusion

I was really impressed with Antigua's Leader Pullover. A great durable mixture of fabrics makes this an impressive addition to my golf apparel. With great moisture-wicking technology it performed great, both as a pullover and as a layer option. Priced at $59 MSRP, it's a steal compared to similar jackets. It's also available in a women’s line.

Tidewater Golf Club Review

2013-03-20T20:45:00.002-04:00

Scenic, Challenging, Top Notch Customer Service
My first stop on my Myrtle Beach Golf Adventure was the Tidewater Golf Club which opened to public play in February of 1990. That very year it was named “Best New Public Course In America” by "Golf Digest". It has continued to earn honors ever since. So it was no wonder I was excited to make this my first round ever in the Myrtle beach/ Grand Strand area.

Tidewater Golf Course Review
From the minute I drove through the gate I could tell I was in for something special. After dropping off our clubs I checked in to the clubhouse and had a great chat with Chris Cooper the GM at Tidewater Golf Club. He talked about Tidewater not over-seeding this year as well as cutting down some pine trees and planting some oak trees around the course. After our chat I was ready to get out and hit my first tee shot of the year. Not so fast!

The lads were very friendly and helpful when we picked up our cart. They answered all our questions being our first time to Tidewater. From there my buddies and loosened up on the Tidewater range which was perfect to get a little rust off our Winter golf swings.

You read so much online about all the world-class courses in the Myrtle Beach area including Tidewater. I felt I had to harness my emotions going into the round. This is after all my first round in the Great Myrtle Beach Golf Mecca.

Right from the get go I realized my round at Tidewater would be a tough one. From the tips it plays 7,044 yards for me playing from whites a solid 6323 yards. Although the first is a straight away par 5 and #15 handicap hole. My one putt managed to solidify an opening par. Great way to start a round.

From there we were off as the course meanders through tall pines and oaks. When you get to hole #3 you kind of take a deep breath. Here's the first of Tidewater's Par 3s. A great hole with four deep bunkers that guards this green. If your a right handed golfer that draws the ball be careful on this hole you may easily roll off this two-tired green as the green slopes right to left towards the waterway. A fun hole that will test all aspects of your game including chipping.

The par 4 dogleg #4 Hole at Tidewater might remind you your on the West Coast at Pebble Beach. It could be reminiscent for toughest. I'm usually not a fan of doglegs but this hole is just plain exciting with the waterway down the left side your going to want a good drive to be able to hit a shorter iron into this hole. Stay below the hole as deep trouble and high scores will await you if you go long here. Three and four two of my favorite holes at Tidewater.

The front nine ends with #8 and #9 a good combination of a birdie-able par 5 and some what tough par 3. The par 5 8th hole has many of Tidewater 90+ soft sand bunkers but if you stay out of them and with a good drive a good score can be found on this picturesque hole.

Hole #9 will take you back to the clubhouse and another of Tidewater's special par 3s, a strength at Tidewater. A manged a par on this hole but with marsh on the left side and a sloping green this hole can be quite tricky. In the wind even more so.

After the turn the 10th Hole is one of 12 holes at Tidewater with water in play. Get it over the water with a good drive to the middle of the fairway you'll only have a wedge into this green.

Hole #12 is another grand par 3 at Tidewater. All three in our group managed to put it in the water. Not a long hole at 145 yards but it really makes you think about iron selection. Don't think to long as its better to pick a yardage and go for it. Long here is again deadly like most holes at Tidewater so have fun on one of the most scenic holes at Tidewater

Your next hole at Tidewater is one of my favorites. A challenging narrow straightaway par 5 with amazing views. You'll definitely take lots of pictures so be sure and bring along your iPhone/camera. You even get a view of the ocean from the #13. The thirteenth green has a plethora of strategically-placed bunkers so if your like me and managed a par. Be happy as you've just parred a really tough par 5.

The back nine at Tidewater I seemed to score better on. I even had my first birdie of the year on the #8 handicap hole #14 where I drained a nice 20 foot putt. Tough hole with your second shot over water to a back to front sloping green. No easy task.

The 18th hole, handicapped 4, is a long par 4 which had me guessing after my second shot. My drive ended up on the right side of the fairway which made the hole that much longer. I didn't realize how much the marsh carried onto the fairway and landed my layup shot in the water. My 75 yard third shot ended up being my fourth. A tough finishing hole where I ended up with a 6.

Conclusion
Tidewater Golf Club was a great course to play for my first ever round in Myrtle Beach. It was scenic with great views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Marshlands. An extremely challenging test of golf for all levels of golfers (5 sets of tees). The greens were quite fast and firm so that added to the challenge. Customer service at Tidewater was great from the time I arrived til the time we left. Be sure and stop in at the Clubhouse and see Denise at the Restaurant her recommendation of the Tidewater Club was spot on for a after round meal.

Tidewater Club
6 oz. Rib Eye Steak
Chicken Breast
Bacon
Provolone Cheese
Lettuce, Tomato, Pickle and Bun
Can you say perfection!

An interesting rule at Tidewater is that the golf course has no out-of-bounds. So if your ball lands in the backyard of any of the many Tidewater Plantation homes you may drop back in play without penalty. This rule was great for my buddies as it kept them from being frustrated as they are beginner golfers. Plus it kept the pace of play perfect for the day.

Rates vary at Tidewater from close to $200 with cart during peak season and around $100 during low season. All carts are equipped with GPS. Also be sure and check out deals at Myrtle Beach Golf Specials and Myrtle Beach Golf vacation packages.

Kikkor's Slyder Premium - Channel Your Inner Spicoli

2013-03-18T21:42:00.002-04:00

You probably saw these featured in Golf Digest Magazine, now Kikkor's Slyder Premium are available! Four cool colors so you can channel your Jeff Spicoli on the golf course. Aloha, Mr. Hand.
Be sure and click on the side banner for discounts on your Kikkor shoes.

My Two Favorite Things - Guinness & Graeme McDowell

2013-03-18T21:20:00.001-04:00

Graeme McDowell pours a good pint of Guinness at his new restaurant -- Nona Blue in Orlando, Fla. -- Defintely could throw back a few with G-Mac.

Top 3 Holes At Barefoot Resort & Golf - Love Course

2013-03-17T22:31:00.001-04:00

I definitely count my self lucky for being able to play one of the courses at Barefoot Resort & Golf during my stay on the Grand Strand this past week. What a great place to experience golf in the Myrtle beach area. The Love Course was a special golf course to play. I can't wait to head back to the area to play the other courses at Barefoot. Here's my take on my favorite/top holes from my round there.

Holes #4 & #6 Barefoot Resort - Love Course
These two holes are just plain fun, scenic and full of history. I've never played a hole on a golf course where the backdrops are old plantation ruins but that's what you get when you play these holes. Bring your iPhone because if your like me you'll be taking lot of photos. Below are just a few samples. They are recreated ruins but it's still very cool. Hole #4 is an uphill par and at about 265 yd. from the white tees your definitely hitting driver on this hole for a possible eagle of birdie putt. Just a real fun, scenic hole.

Holes #13 Barefoot Resort - Love Course
There are many top holes on the Love Course but #13 sticks out for me because it's both scenic and challenging even though at 447 yd. it's a relatively short par 5. From the tee you have to decide to either take your drive down the right side where you might run out of fairway and wind up in water or down the left side which might make the hole a bit longer. This hole really makes you think off the tee. For most golfers you'll be laying up with your second shot just make sure you avoid the trouble on the right side being bunkers and water. The green is smallish and contour so a par is a good score for most on this hole.

Great Fun At Brick Landing Plantation Golf Course

2013-03-14T10:19:00.001-04:00

What a beautiful day for golf yesterday as my son and I enjoyed 9 holes at the newly opened Brick Landing Plantation Golf Course. Although still a bit rough around the edges the course is only getting better having only been reopened for about 15 months. Lots of water and challenging greens will make for a fun round for all abilities.

Gus and I had a great time hitting putts and various shots around the front 9. Gus loved seeing the various turtles and even found a few acorns scattered along the course from some beautiful oak trees. With a few holes along the IntraCoastal Waterway and a few more weaving in and through a housing development there's always something new to look at. We were staying at the Winds Resort at Ocean Isle Beach so if your in the area Brick Landing is a nice place to stop for a quick 9.

Top 3 Holes At Tidewater Golf Club & Plantation

2013-03-12T11:07:00.000-04:00

What a great way to start my Myrtle Beach golf adventure with a round yesterday at the Tidewater Golf Course & Plantation. My buddies and I thoroughly enjoyed our round with great weather, great customer service, food and of course the odd cold beer. Here's my top 3 holes from yesterday's round.

Tidewater #13 - Par 5 475 yd. White Tees
Just a great little par 5 along the Inter Coastal Waterway with great views all along the right side of the hole. While not a long par 5 with a straightaway fairway this hole is tough if your not in the right spot on the fairway for your 2nd or 3rd shot. When you get to the green be prepared for a tricky putt depending on what level of the green your on. I managed a nice right to left putt for par on this hole but a three putt would not be uncommon.

Tidewater #4 - Par 4 400 yd. White Tees
Another beautiful hole along the Inter Coastal Waterway. Very Pebble Beach like this hole can play very difficult if the wind is up. Long on this hole is deadly as this #1 handicap hole will yield a high number for a golfer of any level. Be sure to stay below the hole as you want an uphill putt on this tricky green.

Tidewater #12 - Par 3 145 yd. White Tees
The most scenic par 3 at Tidewater. This signature hole has a love/hate vibe. The amount of balls in the water will test your distance control so depending on the winds you might want to club up or down. With lots of bunkers front and right side getting on the green will be difficult on this short 145 yd. Good luck and let it fly.