After a few slow starts Tiger Woods wins the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in a remarkable win over Sean O'Hair. or the second straight year at Bay Hill, he made pivotal putts along the back nine and came to the 18th hole needing a birdie to win. From the middle of the fairway, he had 164 yards to the hole the same distance as last year.
In the end, Tiger Woods drove away from Bay Hill wearing the navy blue blazer traditionally awarded to the winner of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
9 Health Tips for Your First 9 Golf Holes of Spring
Spring is upon us with golf in our minds. I found an interesting article from Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin to help all us golfers prepare ourselves for the first golf holes.
1. Start with half swings. After a long winter layoff, you may get anxious over the golf ball your first time out on the links. The tendency is to over-swing, but you'll be much better off if you warm-up by hitting short irons on the range with a 50% swing for 10-15 minutes before you get to the first tee.
2. Replace worn-out grips. Many golfers hands' will become sore after their first few rounds of the spring, undoubtedly because they are using muscles that have been resting all winter. Worn-out grips make the problem much worse, so check your grips and re-grip your clubs if needed before you head out to play.
3. Break in new shoes. A new season often means new golf shoes. But be sure to wear them around the house for a day or two to break them in. Blisters can stay with you for weeks - and if you don't have new shoes, be sure to change your spikes to avoid a nasty slip and the possibility of straining a muscle.
4. Don't forget your hamstrings. Lower back pain is commonly associated with golf, but many people forget that the hamstrings are directly related to the lower back muscles. Stretch your hamstrings regularly, which will in turn help you to decrease strain on your back muscles.
5. Apply Sunscreen. That's right, sunscreen. In April and May, few people think they will be affected by the sun on an overcast spring day. But a four-hour round leaves you little place to hide, and one bad burn can linger all spring.
6. Ease into a high volume of play. Playing too much too soon can lead to overuse injuries.
7. Stretch when you are warm. Muscles are more responsive to stretch if warmed first. Regular daily stretching is more beneficial than just stretching when you play golf.
8. Bring your own water. In spring, many courses don't have beverage carts on the course. If you are walking, you'll become much more dehydrated than you might think, putting yourself at risk of injury and muscle fatigue.
9. Stand up straight. Posture is key with golf. A straight spine at address is much better for you than being hunched over the ball.
1. Start with half swings. After a long winter layoff, you may get anxious over the golf ball your first time out on the links. The tendency is to over-swing, but you'll be much better off if you warm-up by hitting short irons on the range with a 50% swing for 10-15 minutes before you get to the first tee.
2. Replace worn-out grips. Many golfers hands' will become sore after their first few rounds of the spring, undoubtedly because they are using muscles that have been resting all winter. Worn-out grips make the problem much worse, so check your grips and re-grip your clubs if needed before you head out to play.
3. Break in new shoes. A new season often means new golf shoes. But be sure to wear them around the house for a day or two to break them in. Blisters can stay with you for weeks - and if you don't have new shoes, be sure to change your spikes to avoid a nasty slip and the possibility of straining a muscle.
4. Don't forget your hamstrings. Lower back pain is commonly associated with golf, but many people forget that the hamstrings are directly related to the lower back muscles. Stretch your hamstrings regularly, which will in turn help you to decrease strain on your back muscles.
5. Apply Sunscreen. That's right, sunscreen. In April and May, few people think they will be affected by the sun on an overcast spring day. But a four-hour round leaves you little place to hide, and one bad burn can linger all spring.
6. Ease into a high volume of play. Playing too much too soon can lead to overuse injuries.
7. Stretch when you are warm. Muscles are more responsive to stretch if warmed first. Regular daily stretching is more beneficial than just stretching when you play golf.
8. Bring your own water. In spring, many courses don't have beverage carts on the course. If you are walking, you'll become much more dehydrated than you might think, putting yourself at risk of injury and muscle fatigue.
9. Stand up straight. Posture is key with golf. A straight spine at address is much better for you than being hunched over the ball.
Monday, March 23, 2009
NEW Calvin Klein Golf Clothing
Calvin Klein is now expanding is line of clothing onto the golf course with there new line of golf clothing. I checked out the site and there styles look very Calvin Klein-ish. These will definitely appeal the stylish golfer! You can check out the Calvin Klein site here.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Mickelson Wins CA Championship
Mickelson is continuing his ride to the top with yesterdays win at the CA Championship at Doral Florida. Nick Watney was closing in but needed a birdie on the 18th hole, which yielded only three in the final round, Watney thought his 30-footer was good until it stopped one turn away.
"I'll get over this," Watney said. "It's a positive week. I played really well. Beat 78 of the best players in the world. Beat Tiger, which is always good. I'm very pleased with the way I'm playing."
Mickelson fell behind for only one hole with a bogey at No. 4. And on No. 7 built a two-shot lead when Watney made bogey from the bunker. Mickelson ripped a 3-wood from 256 yards over the water just over the par-5 eighth green for a birdie.
Mickelson won for the second time in three starts and moved to No. 2 in the world ranking, as close to Tiger Woods as he has ever been. Depending on how Woods fares at Bay Hill, Mickelson might have a chance to go to No. 1 when he plays again.
"I'll get over this," Watney said. "It's a positive week. I played really well. Beat 78 of the best players in the world. Beat Tiger, which is always good. I'm very pleased with the way I'm playing."
Mickelson fell behind for only one hole with a bogey at No. 4. And on No. 7 built a two-shot lead when Watney made bogey from the bunker. Mickelson ripped a 3-wood from 256 yards over the water just over the par-5 eighth green for a birdie.
Mickelson won for the second time in three starts and moved to No. 2 in the world ranking, as close to Tiger Woods as he has ever been. Depending on how Woods fares at Bay Hill, Mickelson might have a chance to go to No. 1 when he plays again.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Friday the Thirteenth Driving Range Practice
It seems lately my practices have been really inconsistent. My last few range practices have been up and down. This was no different. It was down for half of my practice session. I noticed after hitting the first half of balls was my back was giving me issues when in posture. The increase torque from the swing is actually causing more strain in my back. As much as I want to grab a bucket and swing it's a good idea to stretch out. My flexibility wasn't as good that's probably why I was either topping the ball or hitting to the right side.
My practice session was mainly focused on my left arm and how I need to keep it somewhat straight. I've tried that but it didn't really work out for me. I ended up topping the ball. To correct this issue what I did was slightly bend my left elbow on the top of my golf swing. This help me gather momentum when going down. This technique helped me out. Maybe I'm just thinking to much and need to relax more.
I also practiced on the grassy area of the range to get a better feeling on how it might be like on the actual golf course. It felt different. The ground felt uneven, the grass wasn't really consistent, etc etc. There were so many condition factors. My first few shots involved dirt flying in the air. The club was covered with mud. I did however get a few good shots.
My practice session was mainly focused on my left arm and how I need to keep it somewhat straight. I've tried that but it didn't really work out for me. I ended up topping the ball. To correct this issue what I did was slightly bend my left elbow on the top of my golf swing. This help me gather momentum when going down. This technique helped me out. Maybe I'm just thinking to much and need to relax more.
I also practiced on the grassy area of the range to get a better feeling on how it might be like on the actual golf course. It felt different. The ground felt uneven, the grass wasn't really consistent, etc etc. There were so many condition factors. My first few shots involved dirt flying in the air. The club was covered with mud. I did however get a few good shots.
Mickelson Up 2 Shots in the CA Championship
Mickelson built a two-shot lead Friday by chipping in for birdie for the third time and launching a 3-wood from 245 yards around the palm trees and over the water, setting up another birdie. There 3 guys right on his tail. Nick Watney who is -11, Rory McIlroy and
Kenny Perry are both -10. However, golf's favorite player was nowhere insight. Tiger Woods was 10 shots behind. Woods beat Mickelson in the final round four years ago at Doral that came down to the final shot. They were paired again in the last group in the third round in 2006, and Woods got the best of him again.
"It kind of (stinks)," Mickelson said. "I hope he comes out tomorrow and plays a great round and makes a move. I would love to get him back from '05. I came close in '05 and got beat, and I would love the opportunity to play head-to-head."
Kenny Perry are both -10. However, golf's favorite player was nowhere insight. Tiger Woods was 10 shots behind. Woods beat Mickelson in the final round four years ago at Doral that came down to the final shot. They were paired again in the last group in the third round in 2006, and Woods got the best of him again.
"It kind of (stinks)," Mickelson said. "I hope he comes out tomorrow and plays a great round and makes a move. I would love to get him back from '05. I came close in '05 and got beat, and I would love the opportunity to play head-to-head."
LPGA Coming to San Diego, Torrey Pines in September
On September 16 - 20 the LPGA will be hosting the Samsung World Championship at Torrey Pines South Course (6,700 yards, par 72). It has been 15 years since an LPGA tournment has been in San Diego. With last years historical US Open the city has been getting a widespread international exposure.
"On behalf of the City of San Diego, we look forward to welcoming the LPGA Tour with the 2009 Samsung World Championship at Torrey Pines," said Jon Maddern, Deputy Director/Golf Operations Division for the City of San Diego, owners of Torrey Pines Golf Courses. "This magnificent facility has witnessed many spectacular golf moments over the years, and we know that the best in women's golf will create more history here in September."
The LPGA and IMG are hoping that the absence of the tour for 15 years has made San Diego hungrier for the women's game, which is vastly different and, arguably, far more watchable from the last time it was here in 1993.
The LPGA players get to test their skills on a layout as demanding and beautiful as most they play.
For more information regarding this event click here
"On behalf of the City of San Diego, we look forward to welcoming the LPGA Tour with the 2009 Samsung World Championship at Torrey Pines," said Jon Maddern, Deputy Director/Golf Operations Division for the City of San Diego, owners of Torrey Pines Golf Courses. "This magnificent facility has witnessed many spectacular golf moments over the years, and we know that the best in women's golf will create more history here in September."
The LPGA and IMG are hoping that the absence of the tour for 15 years has made San Diego hungrier for the women's game, which is vastly different and, arguably, far more watchable from the last time it was here in 1993.
The LPGA players get to test their skills on a layout as demanding and beautiful as most they play.
For more information regarding this event click here
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Left Arm in the Golf Swing
On the Haney Project Charles Barkley, Haney kept reminding Barkley to be flatter. He was referring that his left arm and hand needs to be flat in his back swing. Luckily I found a cool Shawn Clement video regarding the left arm! Check it out
Here is another helpful link by Jim Ballard. YouTube didn't have the link to embedd the video, you can find the link here.
Here is another helpful link by Jim Ballard. YouTube didn't have the link to embedd the video, you can find the link here.
Callaway NEW Big Bertha Diablo Driver
On March 13, 2009 (Friday the 13th) Callaway Golf will be releasing the NEW Big Bertha Diablo driver. The Big Bertha line of clubs and drivers are known for there easy-to-hit and ultra forgiving clubs high handicappers go to. The Big Bertha features
- Hyperbolic Face Technology
Hyperbolic shaping is the cutting edge of driver face design. Mathematics and engineering combine to create Callaway’s highest ever ball speeds across the entire face. - Edge Technology
The unique shaping of the all-titanium clubheads allowed the engineers to move weight in specific locations to achieve the optimal CG location and ball flights for the Draw or Neutral options with a higher MOI. It also helps close the clubface at impact so golfers can better release the club with power.
Draw and Neutral Head Shapes
Provides golfers with the opportunity to select a driver that will most benefit their swing type and promote their desired shot shape.
S2H2 Design
Increases discretionary weight by removing it from the hosel and repositioning it in the perimeter of the clubhead to add stability.
Dr. Alan Hocknell, VP of Innovation and Advanced Design states "We also use head shape more aggressively than in previous designs to steer the center of gravity to neutral or draw locations." The MOI in the Diablo Neutral is 20 percent higher (the Draw version is 10 percent higher) than the Big Bertha 460 driver.
A couple of Big Bertha Diablo Articles
First impression:Callaway Big Bertha Diablo driver
Golf Gear Select: Callaway Big Bertha Review
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Recap The Haney Project: Episode 1
I finally had the opportunity to check out the first episode of the Haney Project Charles Barkley on my digital video recorder. The first episode of the Haney Project Charles Barkley is the ultimate golf makeover.
The show starts off with highlights of Barkley's golf swing. According to him he's been struggling for the past 10 years.
Neil Hartman, a close friend of Barkley's seen him achieve a 12 handicap. According to Hartman his game starting going downhill when the camera's started focusing on him. A psychologist said that Charles has the ability to handle pressure. But his golf swing is a selective type of pressure which is the reason why Barkley has a difficult time couping with it.
Now the fun begins when Barkley meets with World's Best Coach Hank Haney. They discuss about Barkley's swing and how Barkley hits the ground first. This is the ultimate challenge for Haney. Barkley then attempts a Tiger Day.
"Tiger Day".
When Barkley approaches the golf ball he is completely terrified. On his downs swing he tends to move closer. to the ball. His swing plane is way off and his club head is 40% closed. Barkley has a really positive attitude. He is committed to his project and is willing to put in the work.
Here are my overall thoughts of the show. I really enjoyed watching the show. The production value is very high like MTV. The Golf Channel has a winner with this show. I feel this show will help new golfers find faults in a bad golf swing and how to correct it.
The show starts off with highlights of Barkley's golf swing. According to him he's been struggling for the past 10 years.
Neil Hartman, a close friend of Barkley's seen him achieve a 12 handicap. According to Hartman his game starting going downhill when the camera's started focusing on him. A psychologist said that Charles has the ability to handle pressure. But his golf swing is a selective type of pressure which is the reason why Barkley has a difficult time couping with it.
Now the fun begins when Barkley meets with World's Best Coach Hank Haney. They discuss about Barkley's swing and how Barkley hits the ground first. This is the ultimate challenge for Haney. Barkley then attempts a Tiger Day.
"Tiger Day".
- 6AM - Work out for an hour
- Breakfast
- 9AM - 11AM - Practice hitting balls
- 11AM - 11:30AM - Putting
- 11:30AM - 12 PM - Play 9 holes
- Lunch
- 1PM - 3PM - Practice Tee
- 3PM - 4PM - Work on short game
- 4PM - 5PM Play another 9 holes
- 5PM - 5:30PM Hit more balls
- 5:30PM - 6PM More putting
When Barkley approaches the golf ball he is completely terrified. On his downs swing he tends to move closer. to the ball. His swing plane is way off and his club head is 40% closed. Barkley has a really positive attitude. He is committed to his project and is willing to put in the work.
Here are my overall thoughts of the show. I really enjoyed watching the show. The production value is very high like MTV. The Golf Channel has a winner with this show. I feel this show will help new golfers find faults in a bad golf swing and how to correct it.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Yang Wins Honda Classic
Y.E. Yang shot a 2-under 68 Sunday to end up one shot ahead of John Rollins and pick up his first PGA Tour victory. The Korean had three straight birdies on the front side and didn't give up, picking up a two-year exemption and a check for $1,008,000. With the win, he qualified for next week's CA Championship at Doral, plus earned an invitation to next month's Masters.
New Blog Writer Addition Craig Hagen
I would like to welcome our newest San Diego Golfer blog writer Craig Hagen. He will be providing additional insight to the world of golf. He will focus his blog posts about golf courses, tournaments and associations that beginners may not be aware of that are great endeavors.
Craig Hagen started playing golf at the age of 13. He "borrowed" his dads clubs, some old leather gripped Bobby Jones Spaldings, and mostly played on courses where he could sneak on for free until he was probably 18 or 19.
He played some high school and community college golf, and stayed active in tournament golf as an amateur. Hagen is currently working to transition to a golf course management career over the next few years. He has qualified to start the PGA apprenticeship program.
Craig has played golf in some very interesting places such as St Andrews, North Berwick, Pinehurst, etc. He has a more holistic approach to the mental side of the game. For instance, whenever he has a friend starting out he would buy them Michael Murphy's GOLF IN THE KINGDOM as he think the writing gives a future golfer the right mental approach to golf.
I really look forward to Craig's contribution to the SD Golfer blog!
Craig Hagen started playing golf at the age of 13. He "borrowed" his dads clubs, some old leather gripped Bobby Jones Spaldings, and mostly played on courses where he could sneak on for free until he was probably 18 or 19.
He played some high school and community college golf, and stayed active in tournament golf as an amateur. Hagen is currently working to transition to a golf course management career over the next few years. He has qualified to start the PGA apprenticeship program.
Craig has played golf in some very interesting places such as St Andrews, North Berwick, Pinehurst, etc. He has a more holistic approach to the mental side of the game. For instance, whenever he has a friend starting out he would buy them Michael Murphy's GOLF IN THE KINGDOM as he think the writing gives a future golfer the right mental approach to golf.
I really look forward to Craig's contribution to the SD Golfer blog!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Barkley and Haney Are a Solid Hit
Last Monday was the premier of the Golf Channel's The Haney Project attracted more than 800,000 viewers. According to Golf.com this is currently the Golf Channel's highest rated television of 2009.
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