Monday, August 31
Iowa in control at Conference Challenge
Iowa is coming off its best season in 10 years. Now, at the first event of the 2009-10 season, the Hawkeyes are in position for more success.
Thoughtful setup equals more fun
Thoughtful course setups mean more fun at college events. So can we please see more of them?
U.S. rounds played stays flat in July
The number of rounds played in the U.S. remained flat in July and increased marginally, up 0.2 percent, for the year-to-date period, according to the most recent national survey.
Harrah’s opens Sequoyah National
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel has opened Sequoyah National Golf Club, which is just the tip of the iceberg on a planned $633 million expansion.
Golfweek's Best Deals: Nebraska
Pound for pound and dollar for dollar, it’s darn near impossible to find deals that pack more punch for the frugal golfer than those available at Nebraska’s top public courses.
Klein on Design: No. 12 at Merion East
Bradley S. Klein, Golfweek’s architecture editor, offers his opinion on hole No. 12 at Merion East, which will soon test the skills of Walker Cuppers.
FedEx Cup a work in progress
There was much less movement or “volatility” from the first to second event of the playoffs this year than last.
Player of the Week: Suzie Lee
Suzie Lee, of East Northport, N.Y., shot even-par 213 (73-70-70) at the Kingsmill Resort and Spa in Williamsburg, Va., and won the AJGA Junior at Kingsmill in a playoff.
Player of the Week: Byeong-Hun An
Byeong-Hun “Ben” An, of Bradenton, Fla., won the U.S. Amateur at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Okla.
Arnie and Jack – it just sounds right
The announcement that Jack Nicklaus will join Arnold Palmer as Masters honorary starter was at once inevitable and appropriate. Perhaps no two golf names go together like Arnie and Jack.
Remembering Joe Monte’s place in history
Joe Monte took down one of the biggest names in golf at the 2005 U.S. Junior. If only I could remember who...
Nicklaus to be Masters honorary starter
Jack Nicklaus will join Arnold Palmer as an honorary starter at the Masters next year, Augusta National announced Monday.
Monday Scramble: Bracket madness
There’s no perfect system for the PGA Tour playoffs. That’s why the Monday Scramble is suggesting the only format that makes sense: match play.
Sunday, August 30
Hur impresses with more than just golf game
NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – M.J. Hur played her first tournament on American soil at the 2006 U.S. Women’s Amateur at Pumpkin Ridge. She was hooked. The Korean teen immediately set her sights on the LPGA.
Woltman reacts to Walker Cup snub
tells us what Dan Woltman had to say after being left off the U.S. Walker Cup team.
Pumpkin Ridge is a fabulous place for golf
ESPN announcers took a long look at clover fields turned into parking lots and announced that total attendance for the LPGA Safeway Classic exceeded 100,000.
Roberts edges O’Meara to win Boeing
Second-round co-leader Loren Roberts birdied the final two holes to steal the Boeing Classic title Sunday and keep Mark O’Meara winless on the Champions Tour.
Christian wins N’wide title in 9-hole playoff
Gary Christian won the Northeast Pennsylvania Classic on Sunday on the ninth playoff hole, which tied a Nationwide Tour record.
Clarification
NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – On Saturday night a blog appeared in this space giving details of the European team’s party on Sunday following the Solheim Cup. While it may have been inferred that Sweden’s Anna Nordqvist was among those having some fun, I’d like to clarify that her good time did not include alcohol. She doesn’t drink.
MacLean motors ahead at Conference Challenge
The 2009-10 college season began Sunday at the Golfweek Conference Challenge, which was perfect timing for Xavier’s Sebastian MacLean.
Notes: Extra club costs Furyk $131,250
Jim Furyk was penalized four strokes in the third round of The Barclays when he and caddie Mike “Fluff” Cowan left an extra club in the bag, a mistake that ended up costing Furyk $131,250 and 188 FedEx Cup points.
Jumping for joy with Walker Cup fever
TULSA, Okla. – Cameron Tringale said he was “really nervous” as he waited to hear from the USGA as to whether or not he would be picked as one of the final two selections for this year’s U.S. Walker Cup team.
Hur wins 1st LPGA title at Safeway
Rookie M.J. Hur made a 6-foot birdie putt on the second playoff hole Sunday to win the Safeway Classic over Suzann Pettersen for her first LPGA victory.
Slocum stuns Tiger, wins The Barclays
Heath Slocum made a clutch par on the 72nd hole to win The Barclays. Tiger Woods missed a 6-footer that could have forced a playoff.
Uihlein, Tringale named to Walker Cup team
Peter Uihlein and Cameron Tringale were selected as the final two members of the U.S. Walker Cup team, sources confirmed with Golfweek.
An, 17, becomes youngest U.S. Am champ
Byeong-Hun An became the youngest U.S. Amateur champion Sunday with a 7-and-5 victory over Ben Martin at Southern Hills.
Riley on outside looking in
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – No, he didn’t want to talk. Nothing personal, but the ending to his final round crushed Chris Riley’s spirits at The Barclays.
An leads Martin in U.S. Amateur final
Byeong-Hun An’s bid to become the youngest winner in U.S. Amateur history is off to a good start. The 17-year-old is 3 up after 18 holes.
Monty withdraws from European Masters
European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie withdrew from this week’s European Masters in Crans-sur-Sierre, where qualifying begins for next year’s European team.
Hedblom holds on for Johnnie Walker title
Peter Hedblom of Sweden shot a 5-under 67 to win the Johnnie Walker Championship title by one stroke over Martin Erlandsson.
Zach attack
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Zach Johnson birdied holes 13-17 for a back-nine 30 and shot 67 in the third round of The Barclays. No big surprise there, after all Johnson entered the week first on Tour in third-round scoring (68.19). Let’s not forget the season-low 60 he posted in May in San Antonio in – you guessed it – the third round.
Hill should be going to Augusta, too
RIVERSIDE, Iowa – Throughout the practice round here at the Golfweek Conference Challenge at Blue Top Ridge players were asking each other who won the semifinal matches at the U.S. Amateur. It was important to the players because the winners of Saturday’s matches at Southern Hills got automatic invitations to play in the Masters next spring – something every college player dreams about.
Conference Challenge: Sights and sounds
Behind-the-scenes at the Golfweek Conference Challenge, practice round edition.
An makes match play look easy
Byeong-Hun An has only trailed once en route to the U.S. Amateur final.
Saturday, August 29
Nordqvist leads at Safeway
Rookie Anna Nordqvist’s 3-under 69 moved her into a one-shot lead over Seon Hwa Lee and Ai Miyazato going into the final round of the Safeway Classic.
McNulty, Roberts ahead at Boeing Classic
Mark McNulty went to the range after the first round of the Boeing Classic to try to figure out how a sizzling first nine holes got away from him.
In Nat’s corner
NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – Here at the Safeway Classic, I am rooting Natalie Gulbis. With rounds of 68 and 69, Gulbis is 7-under par after 36 holes. She is just three strokes off the pace.
Liberty National shrinks – but for how long?
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – One day after Sergio Garcia called Liberty National “the longest course I’ve played this year,” Tiger Woods suggested they call in the detectives to determine who has shrunk this monster.
Breaking down Tiger's competition
Here’s something to dwell on as you await the final round of The Barclays.
Paul Goydos, comedian
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – The dry wit and wisdom of Paul Goydos struck again in the media center. You may recall the time Goydos was leading the 2008 Players Championship and NBC’s Bob Costas asked him how he slept last night?
Commentary: Test awaits at Golfweek’s Conference Challenge
Iowa junior Vince India already has a leg up on the field when the college golf season starts Sunday at Golfweek’s Conference Challenge.
Commentary: Not the Tiger we’re used to seeing
Tough to tell what has been flowing through the mind of Tiger Woods this week at The Barclays. Jim McCabe does his best to figure it out.
Goydos, Marino share Barclays lead
Steve Marino ran off three straight birdies late in the third round Saturday for a 3-under 68 to catch Paul Goydos for a share of the lead at The Barclays and give himself another shot at his first PGA Tour victory.
And the “Oops Award” goes to . . .
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Jim Furyk gets the “Oops Award” of the day. He violated golf’s 14-club rule, discovering an extra 60-degree wedge in his golf bag on the second hole. As a result, Furyk was penalized two strokes on each hole, turning pars into double bogies. At 4 over after two holes, Furyk then ran off five straight birdies and rallied to shoot 1-under 70.
Putter key for Martin in U.S. Am run
TULSA, Okla. – Ben Martin usually isn’t known for his ability on the greens, but both Ben and his father, Jim, said Saturday that the flatstick has led them to the U.S. Amateur final. A couple days before coming to Southern Hills, Ben developed a new pre-shot routine that helped him see the line of his putts better. He used the new routine to shoot a nine-hole 31 at home, which convinced him put the routine in play at the U.S. Amateur.
Ans pursuing yet another trophy
Byeong-Hun An hasn’t won a tournament in more than three years. Now he’s just 36 holes from the biggest prize in amateur golf.
Pak joins mounting list of Safeway withdrawals
Se Ri Pak has withdrawn from the Safeway Classic at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club.
U.S. Amateur finalists punch Masters tickets
U.S. Amateur finalists Ben Martin and Byeong-Hun An already feel like they've won. Why? A little place called Augusta National. Ron Balicki explains.
Martin's next stop: The Masters
TULSA, Okla. – Ben Martin’s father, Jim, was standing on the first tee at Southern Hills, when he thought, “We’re 18 holes from the Masters.”
Shots of the day at The Barclays
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – They don’t award style points for birdies, but if they did, Phil Mickelson and Justin Rose would have earned big ones midway through the third round of The Barclays.
Worst ruling of the year?
Worst rules decision of the year? Yes. At the Safeway Classic, the LPGA’s decision to allow players to lift, clean and place their balls in the first cut of rough was senseless, unnececssary and, worst of all, unfair.
Martin, An advance to U.S. Am finals
Ben Martin and Byeong-Hun An advanced to the final of the U.S. Amateur Saturday.
A beautiful Irish day for golf
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – I’m not sure what forecast Commissioner Tim Finchem was looking at when he said on Wednesday, “We have a good weather pattern moving in which is going to sharpen those visuals of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.”
Hedblom moves ahead at Johnnie Walker
Peter Hedblom shot a 4-under 68 to take a one-stroke lead over Paul Lawrie after three rounds at the Johnnie Walker Championship.
Back to the books for Holland
Charlie Holland admits going to classes at the University of Texas is not one of his favorite things to do.
Pakistan qualifies for first World Cup
Pakistan qualified for its first Mission Hills World Cup by finishing in the top three at the Asian qualifying tournament Saturday.
Where are the Swedes?
Prior to the British Open, Golfweek’s cover screamed, “Where are the Scots?” Scanning the FedEx Cup point standings this morning, I’d argue a similar question could be asked of “What happened to the Swedes?”
Commentary: European pros hone game on Alps Tour
There are many developmental tours around Europe. Perhaps the best is the Alps Tour. Alistair Tait explains.
The Country Club gets 2013 U.S. Amateur
U.S. Golf Association officials later today will officially award the 2013 U.S. Amateur to The Country Club.
Friday, August 28
Bader secures early Safeway lead
Beth Bader shot an 8-under 64 at the Safeway Classic, to take a 1-stroke lead into the second round at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club.
Eagle pushes O’Meara ahead at Boeing
Still winless on the Champions Tour, Mark O’Meara eagled the 18th hole Friday to take a two-shot lead over a jumbled field after the first round of the Boeing Classic.
Commentary: Wie riding Solheim adrenaline at Safeway
The Safeway Classic is a fitting Solheim encore for Michelle Wie, and as Beth Ann Baldry writes, she's looking sharp at Pumpkin Ridge.
Tropical storm Danny delays The Barclays
“Moving day” on the PGA Tour, at least for The Barclays, will start a little later. Chalk it up to tropical storm Danny, which threw a bit of turmoil into Friday’s second round, but is expected to cause even more havoc overnight and into Saturday.
Commentary: Easy-going Goydos in hunt at Barclays
There’s nothing flashy about Paul Goydos. Still, the easy-going veteran is in the hunt at The Barclays, in the shadow of Manhattan.
New rule surprises Safeway field
Controversy and the LPGA have been paired together all year, so nobody seemed surprised when another LPGA brush fire broke out Friday at the Safeway Classic.
Vijay down, not out of FedEx Cup
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Vijay Singh’s defense of the FedEx Cup is off to a bad start. He shot a second straight 75 and missed the cut at The Barclays. However, a missed cut isn’t as damaging this year because the FedEx Cup points re-set won’t happen until before the Tour Championship. (It’s complicated, just take my word for it.) At No. 59 in the rankings heading into The Barclays, he should be safe for the Deutsche Bank Championship field next week, but Singh will need to step it up a notch if he expects to retain the Cup.
Simpson leads Barclays; Woods eight back
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Webb Simpson has found enough birdies on long, tough and wet Liberty National for a 3-under 68 to build a two-shot lead in the Barclays, the opening playoff event on the PGA Tour.
Ringler in heaven at Conference Challenge
Is this Heaven? Nope, it's the Golfweek Conference Challenge. (In Iowa.)
Thanks for coming
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – A limited field is getting even more limited by the minute. At last count, four players have withdrawn from The Barclays and one was been disqualified.
Up a river without a driver
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Lucas Glover, to borrow a hockey phrase, played shorthanded for much of the day.
Sergio's playoff beard
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Sergio Garcia didn’t call it a playoff beard, but he’s sporting a full one this week that makes him look like the son of “The Most Interesting Man in the World” in those heavily overplayed Dos Equis beer commercials.
Final Four set at U.S. Amateur
Charlie Holland, Ben Martin, Bhavik Patel and Byeong-Hun An advanced to the semifinals at the U.S. Amateur.
Commentary: Fathers give sons boost at U.S. Am
Ben Martin and his father, Jim, have been on a wild ride at the U.S. Amateur. One more victory at Southern Hills, and the duo is headed to Augusta.
Lawrie leads Johnnie Walker by two shots
Paul Lawrie shot a second straight bogey-free round Friday with a 3-under 69, taking a two-stroke lead at the Johnnie Walker Championship.
Paddy loves Liberty National
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – And in defense of Liberty National, Mr. Padraig Harrington. State your opinion, sir: “A phenomenal golf course.”
Holland hits shot of the tournament
TULSA, Okla. – Charlie Holland advanced to the semifinals at the U.S. Amateur with one of the shots of the tournament. Holland thought his run was over after he missed a 10-foot par putt on No. 18. He removed his cap as opponent Peter Uihlein prepared to stroke an 8-foot, uphill putt for a 1-up victory.
Burgoon's famous shot, from the other side
I know, I know we have heard enough about Bronson Burgoon’s amazing shot for Texas A&M at the NCAA Championships, but usually it was his from his point of view.
Rain causing havoc Day 2 at The Barclays
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – It’s raining cats and dogs here and making playing conditions tough for the top 124 in the FedEx Cup standings.
Creamer WDs from Safeway with illness
NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – Paula Creamer’s Solheim Cup high didn’t last very long. The stomach ailment that has mystified doctors since last November is back, forcing Creamer to withdraw from the Safeway Classic Friday morning.
Silencing Mr. Twitter
Stewart Cink has a sense of humor. Of course you may have gleaned that from reading his tweets. Now with a Claret Jug in hand, Cink’s expressions are read by 782,292 followers as of this morning.
Woltman should get Walker Cup nod
Dan Woltman deserves one of the final Walker Cup spots.
Thursday, August 27
Notes: Elbow scare doesn't faze Lefty
Phil Mickelson salvaged a 1-under 70 on Thursday in the first round of The Barclays at Liberty National, birdieing three of his final seven holes and hitting a trademark flop shot to inches for a closing par.
Kicker caddie reaches U.S. Am quarterfinals
There will be a former NFL player on the bag in Friday’s quarterfinals at the U.S. Amateur.
Commentary: Yang living large as PGA champion
Life has changed for Y.E. Yang since winning the PGA Championship. He was mobbed Thursday at The Barclays by reporters and fans. Said Yang, "I felt like a rock star."
Ziegler zips into Am quarters
Steve Ziegler beat Dan Woltman in 22 holes Thursday in a dramatic match at the U.S. Amateur that had Walker Cup implications.
Solheim stars worn out prior to Safeway
NORTH PLAINS, Ore. – The Solheim Cup teams came to Pumpkin Ridge battered and bruised. Juli Inkster withdrew at the start of the week. Maria Hjorth, who is battling a cold, pulled out of the pro-am today after nine holes. Paula Creamer, Angela Stanford and Cristie Kerr are among those feeling under the weather.
Get rowdy!
Malcolm Holland is going to do his best to quiet the Oklahoma State faithful when his son, Charlie, takes on Peter Uihlein in Friday’s quarterfinal match.
Golfweek Junior Series heads to Michigan
The Golfweek Junior Series heads to Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Mich., Sept. 4-6.
Swing changes, patience help Holland at Am
Charlie Holland was home in Dallas just before last Christmas when he and swing coach Cameron Doan began working on some swing changes. “It was mostly lower body stuff,” said Holland, a senior at Texas. “I was kind of jumping at the ball at impact. We worked on that and a few other little things.”
Giuliani wins Met Open, first pro title
Andrew Giuliani notched his first victory as a professional Thursday, winning the Met Open at Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, N.J.
Garcia tied atop Barclays; Woods five back
Sergio Garcia barely got into the PGA Tour playoffs. Now he's tied for the lead at The Barclays.
Goydos delivers in Round 1 at Barclays
The headline should read redundantly: Sunshine Shines on Day 1 Again.
Evangelista enrolls at Haney Academy
Nico Evangelista didn’t exactly have the same first-day-of-school experience as most kids this year.
Commentary: Out of Am, Jackson hopes for Walker spot
Tim Jackson knows he’ll be at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa., for this year’s Walker Cup Match, he just doesn't know if he'll be wearing the uniform.
Solheim Cup looked like Ping demo day
The Solheim Cup: The premier event in women’s golf – and possibly the best golf club demo event ever?
Lawrie leads with 67 in Scotland
Paul Lawrie shot a bogey-free 67 in rainy conditions Thursday for a one-stroke lead in the Johnnie Walker Championship.
PGA Tour not counting on Olympic sponsors – yet
At the newly re-designed golfweek.com, you’ll find this new blog that will provide news and takes from every corner of the sport's business arena.
Extra! Extra!
I wrote a blog Aug. 26 on the number of matches that went extra holes in an opening round. I thought the seven was extremely high and maybe even a record.
Tale of two father/caddie duos
Mike Van Sickle sure made life a lot easier for his father/caddie, Gary, during his first two matches this week at the U.S. Amateur at Southern Hills.
Welcome to The Biz Blog
At the newly re-designed golfweek.com, you’ll find this new blog that will provide news and takes from every corner of the sport's business arena.
Some players not loving Liberty National
Liberty National, the Bob Cupp/Tom Kite design continues to take a beating from the players. When asked if the course played better than he expected, Robert Allenby, who shot 3 under, said, “I really don’t know how to answer that in the right way, because I could really could get myself into a lot of trouble.”
Matches grind on at U.S. Am
Mike Van Sickle is rolling at the U.S. Amateur. Van Sickle beat Trent Whitekiller, 6 and 5, in Thursday’s second round to eliminate the only remaining Oklahoman.
Who dressed the best at the Solheim Cup?
It is our duty to deliver a post-tournament wrap-up, complete with all the major fashion moments from the week!
How low will they go at Safeway?
Here at the LPGA Safeway Classic, I am predicting the highest winning score of the year among non-major tournaments.
Oak Tree National gets ’14 Senior Open
Officials from Oak Tree National say the Edmond, Okla., golf course will host the 2014 U.S. Senior Open.
Jackson's run ends at U.S. Am
Tim Jackson's run at the U.S. Amateur has come to an end after a 1-down loss to Charlie Holland.
LPGA keeps Wegmans as sponsor
The Wegmans LPGA tournament has agreed to a three-year contract extension and the option for additional one-year extensions, said Marty Evans, the LPGA’s acting commissioner.
Woods commits to Deutsche Bank
Tiger Woods is returning to the Deutsche Bank Championship, a tournament he won in 2006 and where he has three other top-10 finishes.
FedEx Cup in Met state of mind
PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said Wednesday that he likes the idea of rotating The Barclays tournament around the Metropolitan area. Next year the event returns to Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, N.J., where last year’s FedEx Cup kickoff was held. But even if the Tour wanted a return engagement this year it would’ve required some maneuvering. This week the course is hosting the 94th Met Open, a “major” for Met area pros and amateurs (Andrew Giuliani, son of the former NYC Mayor, holds a one-stroke lead going into today’s final round).
Golfweek's Conference Challenge preview
Are you ready for some college golf? Golfweek's Conference Challenge kicks off Sunday in Iowa. We preview the event.
Wednesday, August 26
From 5 to 2 for OSU
When the second round of this year’s U.S. Amateur Championship takes place Thursday, only two Cowboys will still be playing.
Extra! Extra! Lots of extra holes
Of the 32 opening matches at the U.S. Amateur had to go into overtime mode
Medalist Jackson moves on easily
Medalist Tim Jackson won easily in the first round of the U.S. Amateur, beating John Kostis, 5 and 4.
One Walker Cupper remains at U.S. Amateur
Eight players were selected to the U.S. Walker Cup team before the start to this week’s U.S. Amateur. Only one remains after Round 1.
Commentary: Cauley knocks off top-ranked Fowler
Bud Cauley didn’t want to play his friend and Walker Cup teammate Rickie Fowler in the first round of the U.S. Amateur. But that didn’t stop him from knocking off the No. 1 amateur in the world.
For PGA Tour, a new look at Liberty
The site of this week’s opening round of the PGA Tour playoffs? Well... “We were pretty sure every travesty known to man was on this property,” one co-designer said. Adam Schupak provides the details.
Geyger is Tulsa’s hometown hero
Former University of Tulsa player Nico Geyger won his first-round match at the U.S. Amateur.
One scenario for another FedEx folly
The PGA Tour says if anyone in the top five entering the Tour Championship wins that final week, he would become FedEx Cup champion. Sounds good except for one thing.
Peter Uihlein vs. ‘Wrong Ron’
Peter Uihlein wants to make the Walker Cup team. Can Ron Balicki help?
Commentary: Is there a Pumpkin Ridge curse?
That sound you heard at the Ghost Creek course at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, host of this week’s LPGA Safeway Classic? Yeah, that may have been the Curse.
Glover throws another strike in New York
Lucas Glover threw out the first pitch at the Aug. 25 New York Yankees game and said it was one of the coolest thing he has ever done.
NCAA champ turns U.S. Amateur caddie
Matt Hill may not have made it to the match play portion of this year’s U.S. Amateur as a player, but he is still here as a caddie.
A U.S. Amateur spelling test
Asher Wildman with a unique spelling test from the U.S. Amateur
Lefties to lock horns at U.S. Am
When we get to the match-play portion of the U.S. Amateur, there are occasionally some coincidental match-ups.
64 vs. 1 match gets a little more interesting
The 64 vs. 1 match at the U.S. Amateur just got a little bit more interesting, thanks to the 27-for-4 playoff.
Commentary: Hate to be Rude: Ringin’ in the playoffs
In this week’s Hate to be Rude, Jeff Rude talks FedEx Cup, the Statue of Liberty, the best player in golf (from the fairway in) and the battle to be the heaviest trophy in golf (Hint: It’s not the green jacket).
Tuesday, August 25
Despite penalty, Jackson medals at U.S. Am
Tim Jackson broke a 100-year-old record at the U.S. Amateur, earning medalist honors despite – get this – a 1-stroke penalty for slow play.
Notes: Singh to leave IMG after 18 years
Vijay Singh has changed putters and caddies throughout his career. Now comes one of the more significant changes. The 46-year-old Fijian is leaving his management company.
Meet Fletcher Johnson, everybody
There were at least a half-dozen college coaches following U.S. Junior champ Jordan Spieth at the U.S. Amateur on Tuesday. It didn’t take long for the coaches to be impressed by another high-school junior in the group.
Commentary: Clemson’s Martin on track at U.S. Amateur
Clemson’s Ben Martin is on another leaderboard at a USGA Championship; but this time, he's ready to make a run at the top prize.
Titleist unveils new wedges, putter
Titleist Vokey Spin Milled C-C Wedges and Titleist Scotty Cameron Monterey Putter
Murray makes first U.S. Amateur ace since ’05
Grayson Murray shot 82-74 to easily miss the cut at the U.S. Amateur, but didn’t leave Tulsa without making a memory.
Toy Box: New wedges
Titleist is about to unveil seven new Scotty Cameron putters and an entire line of Vokey Spin Milled wedges with smaller grooves.
Burgoon keeps Walker Cup chances alive
Bronson Burgoon is used to being around the cut line at the U.S. Amateur. This time, it looks like he’ll be on the right side of the line.
Coaches as caddies?
At this week’s U.S. Amateur, a couple of college coaches are carrying bags for current players. Alabama coach Jay Seawell is the caddie for Bud Cauley, and Oklahoma State assistant coach Alan Bratton is looping for Peter Uihlein.
Six-birdie 70 for Bryan at U.S. Amateur
Wesley Bryan made six birdies Tuesday at Southern Hills. All it earned him was an even-par 70.
Peck’s rally will fall short at U.S. Am
Cameron Peck, the 2009 U.S. Junior champion, made an impressive rally Tuesday at the U.S. Amateur, but looks like he will fall at least a shot short of making match play.
Vijay chasing an impressive record
Vijay Singh this week sets off to defend his FedEx Cup title and, of course, try to vaguely resemble the guy who a year ago pronounced himself as the best putter in the world.
USGA’s Rugge gets earful from Mickelson
Dick Rugge, the USGA’s senior technical director, visited Liberty National Golf Club Tuesday and spoke with Phil Mickelson about Lefty’s growing concerns with the USGA’s new grooves regulations, which go into effect Jan. 1.
The greening of Yang’s hybrid shaft
There are valuable lessons to be learned from PGA Championship winner Y.E. Yang and his choice of hybrid shafts used at Hazeltine National.
Back to reality after the Solheim soirée
I’m exhausted. Sitting at my desk looking at the 32 oz. Diet Coke next to my computer, I can’t help but wonder how tired the U.S. Solheim Cup team must feel. All 12 are playing in Portland this week, and while I get two days at home to do laundry and decompress from the beast of a course that is Rich Harvest Farms, they’re already slaving away at Pumpkin Ridge. (I know, it’s just golf.) In fact, Paula Creamer was out Monday at Torrey Pines conducting a clinic for 130 children. Pinks balls everywhere.
Memories of the Red, White and Blue
Every player whether, already on the U.S. Walker Cup team or trying to make the squad, has a different reasons why they want to play for their country. For Bronson Burgoon, it is a childhood memory. Literally.
Players behind "8-ball" at U.S. Amateur
In the 8-ball game of pool, sinking the lone black ball before all the others have been cleared from the table results in defeat. Just as the 8-ball is the big no-no in pool, so, too, was the No. 8 on the golf courses during the first round of stroke play qualifying Monday at the U.S. Amateur Championship.
In this issue: Aug. 29, 2009
Solheim Cup review / Ex-amateur stars Moore, Sim take huge strides (Aug. 29, 2009)
Inside the bag of Ryan Moore
Ryan Moore, who is without a golf club endorsement deal, used the following in his Wyndham Championship victory.
Short shots from the week in equipment
TaylorMade’s new Penta golf ball, debuted by Sergio Garcia and Retief Goosen at the PGA Championship, was used by six players at the Wyndham: Matt Bettencourt, James Driscoll, Justin Rose, Jay Williamson, Casey Wittenberg and Garcia
Welcome to the new Golfweek.com
We’re handing over the keys to golf’s most knowledgeable and passionate community – and putting YOU in control.
Just win baby!
Another forgettable finish for Sergio Garcia on Sunday. There’s so much talk about his failure to win a major – 0-for-42 as a professional heading into 2010 – but I’d like to see Sergio adopt the infamous words of Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis and “Just win baby!”
Monday, August 24
Jackson, 50, playing like kid at U.S. Am
Fifty is the new 20. Tim Jackson, 50, shot 68 Monday to lead the opening round of stroke play qualifying at the U.S. Amateur.
U.S. Amateur playing tough on Day 1
While 50-year-old Tim Jackson of Germantown, Tenn., was setting the front-running pace with his 2-under 68 Monday on the opening day of stroke play qualifying at the U.S. Amateur, a number of notable players went in the opposite direction.
Forsythe’s firm buys Garland Resort
New Frontiers Capital LLC has acquired Garland Resort (Fountains Course pictured), a 3,000-acre property with four golf courses in north-central Michigan.
Bullish on Baja
The most anticipated opening in Los Cabos is Tom Doak’s first course in Mexico, at Bahia de los Suenos (Bay of Dreams), located south of La Paz.
Casing the scene along Riviera Nayarit
Like a well-made mole sauce, a visit to Mexico’s central coast is a perfect balance of the sweet and the bitter.
Golf clears next-to-last Olympics hurdle
Global appeal, diversity and a game rooted in a culture of fair play. Those three attributes powered golf’s bid to return to the Olympics. And the prospect of having Tiger Woods compete didn’t hurt, either.
Commentary: Could Yang's upset be dawn of a new era?
Y.E. Yang picked a good time to become the first Asian-born male golfer to win a major championship. His victory culminated an unusually busy stretch for golf on the international front.
Asian Tour nets TV deal for UK, Ireland
On the heels of Y.E. Yang’s historic win at the PGA Championship, the Asian Tour announced a deal with Sky Sports to broadcast its tournaments in the United Kingdom and Ireland through 2012.
Woods wins Begay skins game, $230K
Tiger Woods won the Notah Begay III Foundation Challenge, edging defending champion Camilo Villegas at Turning Stone Resort’s Atunyote Golf Club.
Commentary: Format changes could ignite college golf
The team format of the Solheim Cup has Lance Ringler ready for the beginning of another college golf season, and one where he'd like to see some changes.
Walker Cup on Woltman’s mind at U.S. Am
No matter how hard he tries, the Walker Cup will not be far from Dan Woltman’s mind during this week’s U.S. Amateur.
Garcia pulls a Tiger a Wyndham
Bad fortnight for the Boys of Medinah, 1999.
Weathered Moore returns to the winner's circle
Upon first glance at the Wyndham Championship winner, I was fairly certain the bearded man in the Castro-like cap was a dictator of a third-world country who travels with military fatigues.
Singles matches upped at Walker Cup
The USGA is pretty good at keeping secrets, especially, it seems, when it comes to the Walker Cup and its selection process.
Player of the Week: Andrew Levitt
Andrew Levitt, of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., shot 6-under 210 (70-75-65) at Maderas Golf Club in Poway, Calif., and won the AJGA Emerson Junior Golf Classic in a playoff.
Player of the Week: Bonnie Hu
Bonnie Hu, of Fremont, Calif., shot 2-under 214 (74, 70, 70) at Richter Park Golf Course in Danbury, Conn., to win the AJGA Northeast Open by eleven.
Porton takes the helm at Northern Illinois
Tom Porten has been named the head men’s golf coach at Northern Illinois University. Porten will replace John Cleary, now the assistant women’s golf coach at Texas Tech.
Golf Galaxy’s 2Q: Same-store sales off 11%
Dick’s Sporting Goods reported second-quarter sales increased 3.7 percent, but added that comparable store sales, which included Golf Galaxy locations, declined.
Sunday, August 23
Woods a 1-3 favorite to win FedEx Cup
Just a quick odds update for Tiger Woods: Woods is a 1-3 – no, that is not a misprint – 1-3 favorite to win the FedEx Cup starting this week at The Barclays, according to Golfodds.com.
Making the cut on Tour as a 16-year-old . . . "That's neat."
A father and his two small children stood outside the ropes at Sedgefield Country Club wearing “Saint X” T-shirts, cheering on 16-year-old Justin Thomas as he walked by.
Reid wins Jeld-Wen Tradition in playoff
Mike Reid raised his arms and let out a heavy sigh after sinking his playoff-winning birdie putt in the Jeld-Wen Tradition. Then he humbly removed his cap to shake the hand of opponent John Cook.
Moore wins 1st Tour title in Wyndham playoff
Rya Moore claimed his first PGA Tour title with a birdie on the third hole of a sudden death playoff to beat Kevin Stadler on Sunday at the Wyndham Championship.
Wie rises to Solheim challenge
This was the Michelle Wie everyone was waiting to see. She went 3-0-1 in her Solheim Cup debut – the best performance by any American.
Sim moves to PGA Tour with 3rd N’wide title
Michael Sim has played his way onto the PGA Tour. The Australian won his third Nationwide Tour event this season, taking the Christmas in October Classic by two strokes.
Sergio slips Sunday at Wyndham
Are you kidding me? Watching Sergio Garcia on the back nine on Sunday was like watching a Spanish train wreck, except for that bunker shot to get into the playoff.
Higgins feels the nerves at Aggies night
Texas A&M men’s coach J.T. Higgins had to deal with a nerve-wracking finish – remember Bronson Burgoon’s walk-off wedge shot? – before getting to enjoy his team’s NCAA title.
U.S. rolls to Solheim Cup victory
The United States didn’t want to be called the favorites at the Solheim Cup. Winners has a much better ring to it.
Pressel in tears after Solheim victory
You knew Morgan Pressel couldn’t get through the interview without tears. Pressel’s 3-and-2 victory over Anna Nordqvist gave the Americans the 14th point they needed to retain the Solheim Cup.
A fitting end to the Solheim Cup
Janice Moodie and Natalie Gulbis each hit a tee shot on the 18th hole and then agreed to leave the match all square. Fitting end to a hard-fought week.
Whitworth in the shadows at Solheim
She was there at the beginning of the Solheim Cup, 1990, and she was there again at Rich Harvest Farm to watch in person for the 11th edition.
Don't discount Inkster
When it was over and Juli Inkster had fought back to earn a half-point for the victorious U.S. team in the Solheim Cup, one of the first people she embraced was her longtime friend, Meg Mallon, who served as one of captain Beth Daniel’s assistants.
College coaches do summer shuffle
The summer started with a lot of buzz around a few higher profile vacant coaching jobs, and now that the dust has settled, we have seen very little movement among head coaches. Of the 20-plus that were open this year, only three head coaches changed addresses: Nick Clinard (UCF to Auburn), Ria Quiazon (San Francisco to Oregon) and Emilee Klein (UCF to San Diego State).
Dyson wins second KLM title in playoff
England’s Simon Dyson came from six shots back to win the KLM Open, beating Ireland’s Peter Lawrie and Sweden’s Peter Hedblom in a playoff Sunday.
Club displays amateur dominance
There might have been a rare celestial occurence over Missoula (Mont.) Country Club this summer, helping the club to achieve a historical feat never before seen in the state.
Cup play needs a tie-breaker
Can’t ask for much more than what the Solheim Cup has delivered these past three days.
Complete U.S. Amateur Coverage
Golfweek.com is on the ground at Southern Hills to bring you an up-close look at the 2009 U.S. Amateur. Check back daily as Golfweek.com brings you all the action from Tulsa, Okla.
U.S. Amateur preview: Cowboy up
Five Oklahoma State players tee it up this week at the U.S. Amateur at Southern Hills. For Peter Uihlein, a Walker Cup spot is on the line.
A look inside Solheim Sunday singles
For an opening act in Sunday’s singles at the Solheim Cup, you’ve got to give the ladies credit. Paula Creamer against Suzann Pettersen is the match you want to see.
Saturday, August 22
Commentary: U.S. will flex muscle on Solheim Sunday
The U.S. is tied 8-8 with Europe at the Solheim Cup. The Americans will have to play well to win Sunday, but as Beth Ann Baldry writes, the team’s strength is just waiting to be unleashed.
B.J. Wie speaks
B.J. Wie rarely talks to the media. And by rarely I mean almost never gets quoted. He’ll exchange pleasantries about the weather, but isn’t interested in talking about his daughter.
Gulbis helped by TV mic
Natalie Gulbis just got a tremendous break in afternoon foursomes when her shot from under the trees on the sixth hole hit a boom mic and bounced back on the green. (The boom mic is that furry-looking thing that looks like a cat.)
The life of a Solheim Cup mom
How are the European moms handing this week? Maria Hjorth has her baby, Emily, staying with her parents.
Lang celebrates birthday at Solheim Cup
Brittany Lang didn’t realize how long the days would run at the Solheim Cup. The rookie is used to keeping to herself during tournament weeks, rarely going out to dinner with other players or leaving her hotel room, other than to hit the gym.
When I grow up I want Paula as my captain
A darling little fan today held up the sign of the week.
Creamer not happy riding the pine
Paula Creamer called sitting out this afternoon one of the hardest thing she’s ever done.
U.S. rallies to tie Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup is coming down to the singles. The United States split the afternoon foursomes Saturday and head into Sunday’s singles tied.
Garcia shares lead at rainy Wyndham
Sergio Garcia and Chris Riley were both 13 under par through 10 holes to share the clubhouse lead Saturday night when play was stopped midway through the third round of the rain-plagued Wyndham Championship.
Brad Bryant in control at Jeld-Wen Tradition
Brad Bryant shot a 5-under 67 Saturday to take a two-stroke advantage over Mike Reid into the final round of the Jeld-Wen Tradition.
Laura Davies . . . M.I.A.
History was made today at the Solheim Cup. Just not the sort of history one would have expected – the first day a Solheim Cup proceeded without Laura Davies.
Pressel vs. Pettersen: A mismatch
When they decided on which holes Morgan Pressel would drive, the Americans might not have realized the matchup they were getting in the second match of the afternoon foursomes. But when she stepped to the first tee, Pressel was involved in as big a mismatch in Solheim Cup history.
Storm stories from Wyndham
How bad is the second storm of the day here at the Wyndham Championship? Well, you may have seen the lights go off during David Feherty’s interview with Freddie Couples. But, for the record, the television in the media center also went down for a minute or so.
Ebb and flow of the Solheim Cup
Surely, you’ve heard a thousand analysts talk about the “ebb and flow” of match play. Heck, maybe a million analysts have talked about it.
Speed bumps at Solheim Cup
More speed bumps – er, make that slow-play bumps – here on Day 2 of the Solheim Cup.
Afternoon pairings on Day 2 at Solheim Cup
Pairings are out for the fourth session, Saturday’s foursomes, and the first thing that jumps out at you is this: Michelle Wie will play for the third time with a third different partner.
Who has the toughest job at the Solheim Cup?
Toughest job here at the Solheim Cup? It might belong to the man at the entrance who has to repeat every minute or so the list of items that spectators are prohibited from bringing in.
Wet one at Wyndham
Got to the Wydham Championship this morning only to find the big digital leaderboards announcing a 90-minute delay on all third-round tee times.
Friday, August 21
McPherson calls her shots
Kristy McPherson just gave fans at home a taste of her South Carolinian spirit with her ace prediction.
Wie savors first Solheim experience
Michelle Wie saw the masses, heard the chants and knew this was going to be a special day no matter where her shots landed.
Rich Harvest Farms shows some quirk
Quirky. That’s an adjective often used to describe Rich Harvest Farms.
Commentary: Day 1 of Slow-heim Cup drags on
It was painfully slow Friday at the Solheim Cup. And that’s a shame, says Jim McCabe. The LPGA deserves better, especially in the midst of its most forgettable season.
Webb sighting
There’s an Aussie driving the U.S. team cart.
Commentary: Hurry up!
I’m glad I’m not at this year’s Solheim Cup. Watching professional golfers take six hours to play four-ball matches isn’t my idea of fun.
Wie's secret stash
How ’bout this for a list-minute catch?
The mothers and the kids
Suzann Pettersen hired Maria Hjorth’s husband, Shaun McBride, to carry her bag this week. Her regular looper, David Brooker, is awaiting the birth of his third child.
Rich Harvest traffic jam
And you thought the play today was slow ... try driving in. There were plenty of horror stories from folks trying to make their way into the parking lot here at Rich Harvest Farms.
Woods commits to The Barclays
Tiger Woods entered The Barlcays on Friday, an indication that the world’s No. 1 player plans to compete in all four FedEx Cup playoff events for the first time.
Clarke, Hedblom share KLM lead
Peter Hedblom shot a second straight 4-under 66 Friday to share the lead with defending champion Darren Clarke at 8 under halfway through the KLM Open.
Ochoa, Kerr in Safeway Classic field
Top-ranked Lorena Ochoa is among those in the field for next week’s Safeway Classic at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club.
Match Play’s home hotel opening nears
When the PGA Tour returns to Marana, Ariz., in February for the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in February, the players and sponsors will have some new accommodations.
Daniel's picks baffle
Shocked. That’s the best way to describe my reaction to Beth Daniel’s afternoon lineup.
Solheim rounds drag
The last match of the day will get started at 3:25 p.m. With the morning matches taking nearly six hours to complete, don’t look for them to finish. The final match was originally scheduled for 2:15 p.m.
Thursday, August 20
Marucci peeks at Walker squad
U.S. Walker Cup captain Buddy Marucci got his first look – as a unit – at the eight team members when the group met for a practice session last week at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa.
Apparel Scripting: Solheim Cup
Ashworth has come out with some fabulous looks for the ladies of team USA to sport this week.
Commentary: U.S. firepower fits Solheim
It’s Solheim Cup week, which means we’re guaranteed to see American names on the leaderboard. (It’s OK to smile after reading that.)
Wednesday, August 19
Asian Amateur announces sponsors
IBM, KFC, Rolex and Zurich Financial Services Group will sponsor the inuagural Asian Amateur Championship, event officials announced Aug. 19.
This Week's Issue: Aug. 22, 2009
What's inside the Aug. 22, 2009 issue of Golfweek magazine.
U.S. Am pairings announced
Pairings for the U.S. Amateur were released today. Here are some notable starting times:
Commentary: Hate to be Rude: Audacity of hope
Will the fact Y.E. Yang became the first to overtake leader Tiger Woods on Sunday at a major championship give others more hope in similar situations?
Merkulov delivers at N.Y. Junior Am
relates Yaroslav Meruklov's latest feat: a scorching final-round 61 on his way to a record-setting New York Junior title.
U.S. routs Europe at Jr. Solheim
Each year of the biennial match play event, the PING Junior Solheim Cup has been won by the host team, and 2009 was no different as the United States recaptured the Cup by a 15.5-8.5 total.
Commentary: The charm of the Jr. Solheim Cup
Team spirit was alive at the junior event, as Beth Ann Baldry writes.
Tuesday, August 18
Double hybrids for Yang
Y.E. Yang’s decisive shot on the final hole of the PGA Championship was hit with a TaylorMade Rescue TP hybrid (21 degree). This was a 2007 model, designated on the sole as a Rescue 4.
Toy Box: Putters
The secret finally is out. The Nike putter used by U.S. Open champion Lucas Glover and British Open champion Stewart Cink is called the Method and features a combination of metal and polymer in the face.
Monday, August 17
New trial for Callaway vs. Acushnet
A federal appeals court reversed a ruling favoring Callaway in its patent-infringement suit against Acushnet Co., maker of Titleist golf balls, sending the case back to the lower court for a new trial.
Reality check on the Race to Dubai
The Guardian reported that the Dubai World Championship purse and season-ending “Race to Dubai” bonus pool each would be cut from $10 million to $7.5 million.
Player of the Week: Kaitlyn Rohrback
Rohrback, of Crofton, Md., shot 5-over 215 (68, 73, 74) at Stonewall Links in Elverson, Pa., to win the CorseMax/Philadelphia Runner Junior by six.
USGA adds to groove rule
The USGA has sent a clear message that new grooves for wedges and irons will be constructed precisely as the USGA envisions, with no wiggle room for the ingenuity and resourcefulness so commonly exhibited by manufacturers.
Commentary: Tiger tamers
On a week when Minnesota was the focus of the golf world, it was appropriate that native son Verne Lundquist delivered the signature call of the PGA Championship.
Winner's Circle: Aug. 10-16, 2009
What was in Y.E. Yang's bag?
Looks of the Week: PGA Championship
Check out the solid and shanked outfits from the PGA Championship.
Querencia's grand designs
When the subject of golf architecture is broached, it’s typically along the lines of, “What did you think of that Fazio design?” And to be sure, there’s much to recommend about Tom Fazio’s thrill ride of a layout at Querencia, with its roller-coaster holes, icy-slick greens and sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez.
Mexican evolution: Los Cabos
Los Cabos used to be known as “Marlin Alley,” a reference to its world-class sportfishing, but it has developed the critical mass of courses that make it a favorite of golf tourists.
Player of the Week: Jay Hwang
Hwang, of San Diego, Calif., shot 9-under 207 (73, 65, 69) at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, Calif., to win the California Junior Amateur by four.
Sunday, August 16
Rotz takes Cardinal Am by three
Clayton Rotz was the only player to go in the red at the Cardinal Amateur, and it got him the victory.
Cerulle named Long Beach State coach
Joey Cerulle has been named the head women’s golf coach at Long Beach State.
Final thoughts from Hazeltine
Some final thoughts from the PGA Championship.
Yang shocks Woods, wins PGA
In a year of spoilers at the majors, Y.E. Yang was the biggest of all. He toppled the mighty Tiger Woods to win the PGA Championship.
Commentary: Yang delivers knockout punch
Rome has fallen. The king has been dethroned. Alert the authorities. With a thunderous fist pump after a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole of the PGA Championship, Y.E. Yang became the answer to a trivia question that will be asked as long as golf is played.
Saturday, August 15
Walker Cup remembered
Somewhere in Dublin, Jody Fanagan is smiling. His loyal friend and former golf comrade, Padraig Harrington gave him some love at a major championship before an international media.
Phil struggles at No. 3
You can’t say that Phil Mickelson isn’t a man of his word. It was Wednesday when he said, “No. 3 is probably my least favorite hole on the course . . . “
Jenkins' best
Longtime author and golf writer Dan Jenkins – covering his 201st major – gives his top 5 players of all-time:
We love Minnesota
is impressed with the crowds at the PGA Championship. These Minnesotans are serious about their golf.
Putter failing Lefty
Phil Mickelson isn’t going back to the drawing board. He’s going back to the putting green.
Tiger's lead dwindles
Tiger Woods walked onto the fourth tee Saturday with a four-stroke lead. He arrived at the 11th with just a one-shot edge on Padraig Harrington.
No more clock
As it stands now with the leaders on the back nine Saturday, Tiger Woods and Padraig Harrington would play again tomorrow in the final pairing.
‘Birthplace of American golf’ for sale
West Virginia’s Oakhurst Links is up for sale — the birthplace of American golf, where sheep roam the fairways and modern technology takes a back seat to hickory-shafted clubs.
All bets...on
Few believed on Saturday morning that Tiger Woods would not win the PGA Championship, but Paddy Power, a betting site in the UK, put it’s money where its mouth was by honoring all bets on Tiger Woods to win – on Saturday.
Commentary: What will Woods do Sunday?
So the late innings of the 91st PGA Championship at Hazeltine have arrived, and once again, Mariano Rivera has the baseball.
Friday, August 14
Burke wins second Canadian Am
Cam Burke snatched the Canadian Men’s Amateur title for the second consecutive year after firing back-to-back 68s to close the tournament.
Quiet intensity fuels Johnson
For most girls, it would have been the all-time sacrifice. Others might have considered it the impossible decision: Attend the junior prom or a qualifer for the U.S. Women’s Amateur?
Hill, Taylor tie at Canadian Am
Canada’s top two amateurs, Matt Hill and Nick Taylor, tied at the Canadian Men’s Amateur Aug. 13, but for third place.
Stricker: Could have been worse
Steve Stricker shot 2-over 74, but it could have been a lot worse according to the Wisconsin native who didn’t make a birdie on Thursday.
Scott's putting problems
For the latest entry in the “Drive For Show, Putt For Dough” book, we offer Adam Scott.
A glimpse of the past
I sat next to a 5-year-old boy on the sixth hole as Tiger Woods came through. The boy’s shirt said “I am the Future.”
Stricker goes birdie-less
You could have gotten long, long odds that one guy would play 36 holes at the PGA Championship without a birdie and his name would be Steve Stricker.
Bull's Eye's back
Huddle up, equipment geeks: The last couple days, Corey Pavin and Bob Estes have played Turn Back the Clock.
The invisible men
A great deal has been made about the many players who have exhibited vanishing acts this season. Vijay Singh, Camilo Villegas, Anthony Kim, Justin Rose, Adam Scott, Padraig Harrington (before these last two weeks, anyway) ... each has seen his sub-par season well-chronicled.
Those other "spoilers"
Quote of the day from Friday at the PGA . . . Stewart Cink, when asked what is was like to be paired with the 2009 major champions during the first two rounds at Hazeltine.
Family time
Cool scene late on Friday near the ninth and 18th greens, which sit next to one another, at Hazeltine.
Time Off
Moving away from the typical approach to poor play that PGA Tour guys display – “I’m going to take a few weeks off” – Adam Scott decided to go in another direction. Sergio Garcia did likewise.
Quiros' big drive
Even in this world of titanium and megablasts, it sounded a bit much. Driver, 9-iron to the 564-yard, par-5 seventh hole? Was that true, Alvaro Quiros?
PGA cut falls at 4 over
When the numbers were crunched and the cut had fallen at 4-over 148, 80 players made the cut. Only 12 of them could lay claim to making the cut in each major this season.
Trimble named UCF women’s coach
Keith Tribble, director of athletics at UCF, announced Aug. 11 that Courtney Trimble has been hired as UCF’s head women’s golf coach.
Commentary: Tiger in top form
It was only 11 a.m. on an overcast Thursday here in The Land of 10,000 Lakes, and Tiger Woods made his way across the back of the property over to the first hole, his 10th of the round, already 2 under par for his morning.
Commentary: This week's ups and downs of golf
Amazing that so much can take place in one week, especially in the dog days of August. Over here we call this month the silly season, since nothing much newsworthy seems to happen. That can’t be said for golf, not this past week anyway.
Thursday, August 13
Short game work
It took Phil Mickelson 25 minutes to leave the scoring trailer and after just five minutes with the waiting media, Lefty was off to the putting green to work on the part of his game that deserted him on Thursday.
Olympic golf?
Rugby and golf are the two probable sports to be added to the 2016 Olympic Games, a senior Olympic official told Golfweek from Berlin on Wednesday night after IOC discussions on the matter.
Casey out with injury
Paul Casey’s work week at the PGA Championship came to an end before it really started.
Olympic news no suprise
Good news for golf fans.
Fujita at the top
Didn’t have Hiroyuki Fujita in your office pool?
Playing for Ken
The black 3 next to his name caused a bit of pain. But the green ribbon in his hat? That brought a slight smile to Craig Thomas’ face.
Paddy and the Olympics
Padraig Harrington is an optimist. At the least he’s open-minded.
Why so long, Hazeltine?
Billed as the longest course in major championship history, Hazeltine National at times looked like it was being primed to join the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic.
Herron left out
When he saw John Daly, all Tim Herron could do was hang his head and shake it slowly.
Sergio says
Sergio Garcia, prophet.
Friendly folk in Chaska
I’ll say this about Chaska. You sure meet some nice people around here.
Good week for Lendl, Sorenson, Sutton
A couple notes from around the country, and internationally:
Golf wins key approval for 2016 Games
Golf is on course to be included in the 2016 Olympic Games after the International Olympic Committee’s Executive Board gave the sport its approval in Berlin.
Commentary: Lehman thrives in homeland
Minnesota’s own Tom Lehman, mayor for the week here at Hazeltine, is doing his best to concentrate on golf.
Wednesday, August 12
Murray claims Special Olympics win
One piece of advice that every tournament player is given is to play your own game. Don’t get intimidated by where another player’s drive lands or what club he might be using.
More U.S. Am qualifying highlights
U.S. Amateur qualifying ended Tuesday. Here are some more highlights:
Coach Fanny
Longtime caddie Fanny Sunesson might caddie for fellow Swede Henrik Stenson but she has coached German Martin Kaymer for 5-6 years on matters of course management and strategy.
Kohl's around the corner
It’s two hours before your tee time and you’ve forgotten that household item you promised your wife. Or you need a dress shirt for that evening gala.
Fisher leads major cut-makers
Today’s tip of the day: Throw your PGA Championship love Ross Fisher’s way.
The water-tower launch
A defining characteristic of Hazeltine National is the large water tower that sits on club property. It’s actually a good aiming point for players off the 16th tee box.
In a word? Bored
Almost three decades ago, of course, Dave Hill made headlines by making disparaging remarks about Hazeltine National, then an 8-year-old course designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Making the guest list
Our annual visit with “Glory’s Last Shot,” better known as the PGA Championship, wouldn’t be complete without bringing up a pet peeve.
What he's wearing: Tiger Woods, PGA Championship
Check out what Tiger Woods will be wearing this week at the PGA Championship...
Tuesday, August 11
Players go for final Am spots
Two candidates for the final two spots on the U.S. Walker Cup team had U.S. Amateur qualifying on Monday.
Home sweet Minnesota
Just a few more hours until I leave the comfy confines of Golfweek Headquarters for the PGA Championship.
No fine for Woods
In the ongoing slow play saga that erupted Sunday at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, Tiger Woods said today at the PGA Championship that reports of a fine from the PGA Tour were “erroneous.”
Commentary: Consulting the Golf Gods
Dan Mirocha is going straight to the Golf Gods to figure out this year's major let-downs.
Monday, August 10
Anderson wins S.C. Am
While most of the country’s top amateurs were at the Western Amateur last week, Mark Anderson was in South Carolina.
Hoffmann to serve as caddie
How’d you like to have a U.S. Walker Cup team member on your bag?
Winner’s Circle: Aug. 3-9, 2009
See what this week's winners had in the bag.
Player of the Week: Szu-Han Chen
Chen, of Beaumont, Calif., shot 2-under 214 (71-75-68) at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont to win the AJGA Tee Up Junior Challenge by four.
Lincicome fires caddie
Brittany Lincicome fired her caddie, the same one who jumped with her into Champions Lake at the Kraft Nabisco, after the British Open.
More cow bell
Time to break the cow bell out of retirement for Keegan Bradley, nephew of World Golf Hall of Fame member Pat Bradley.
Asian Tour picks IMG for media agent
The Asian Tour has signed a three-year agreement with IMG making the sports marketing firm its exclusive media agent.
Commentary: Walker hopefuls play the waiting game
Drew Weaver had difficulty sleeping and eating while he waited to learn his Walker Cup fate.
Golfweek's Best Deals: Montana
Maybe it’s the August heat, and maybe it’s the reality that even if you do have time to escape to the beach, it’s still pretty hot there. And that got us to thinking: Where can you go to beat the heat and score some affordable golf?
Break out the cowbell for this week’s Hooter’s tour winner
explains the history behind the Bradley family cowbell.
Player of the Week: Conner Pratt
Pratt, of Birmingham, Ala., shot 13-under 200 (70-62-68) at the Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin, Tenn., to win the AJGA Southeast Junior Open by 10.
Eight picked for U.S. Walker Cup team
The U.S. Golf Association announced Sunday eight players who will represent the United States at the Walker Cup.
Hey, Hazeltine: Woods wins seventh Bridgestone Invitational
Two down, one to go. A week after winning the Buick Open, Tiger Woods closed with a 65 Sunday to win the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational. Next stop: Hazeltine and the PGA Championship.
Sunday, August 9
Missouri hit with tragedy
Missouri’s golf program experienced a week of extraordinary highs and lows.
Women's Am final all square
Well, 18 holes later we’re back where we started.
Bridgestone to host Tour stop thru ’14
Bridgestone became the fourth title sponsor this year to renew its contract with the PGA Tour.
Rollins wins 3rd Tour title at Reno-Tahoe
John Rollins overcame an early double bogey with a chip-in eagle, then survived a string of bogeys to shoot an even-par 72 and win the Legends Reno-Tahoe Open on Sunday for his third career PGA Tour victory.
Notes: Mickelson still shaking off the rust
After six weeks away from the PGA Tour, Phil Mickelson had mixed results in four days at the Bridgestone Invitational.
Song writes history at U.S. Women's Amateur
When Jennifer Song carried away the U.S. Women's Amateur trophy at Old Warson Country Club, she added her name to a short list of players to claim multiple USGA titles in the same year. It was a good feeling for this USC sophomore-to-be, who never let her nerves show through.
Woods angry over being put on clock
Tiger Woods won the Bridgestone Invitational with an 8-iron that stopped a foot from the cup on the 16th hole and a 5-under 65. He believes Padraig Harrington lost because of a stopwatch.
Saturday, August 8
Hahn tops Barlow to win Western Am
John Hahn didn’t have much match play experience heading into the 107th Western Amateur Championship at Conway Farms Golf Club.
Johnson dominates competition
Here’s a stat from the department of ridiculousness:
Huarte takes over at San Francisco
Sarah Huarte was named head women’s coach at the University of San Francisco, the school announced Thursday.
Focused Song powers into Am finals
It’s easy to draw parallels between Jennifer Song’s decision to watch the hyper-active, hyper-violent action flick “Shooter” Friday night and the fact that she cruised into the finals of the U.S. Women’s Amateur Saturday afternoon.
Johnson slays Thompson to reach finals
For a moment, it looked like the lore of Alexis Thompson might include a page from the Tiger Woods handbook.
Friday, August 7
Hahn stays on track at Western Am
John Hahn keeps marching on at the 107th Western Amateur Championship at Conway Farms Golf Club.
Hoisting tips from Harrington
Padraig Harrington knows a few things about trophies because, well, he has spent much of his life winning them.
New No. 1 in Am rankings
For the second time in two weeks, there is a new No. 1 in the Golfweek/amateurgolf.com Amateur Rankings.
Stiff neck won't stop Paddy
Beware of the injured golfer, case No. 1,808,001: Padraig Harrington had to leave the Firestone range Monday because of a stiff neck. He was unable to turn his head as he headed to the clubhouse for treatment.
McLachlin turns it around in Reno
Parker McLachlin started his title defense at the Legends Reno-Tahoe Open by doing a good deed for the community where he earned his first PGA Tour victory, visiting the Renown Children’s Hospital in Reno on Tuesday.
Jungeun excites Am crowds
Han Jungeun gets my award for best celebration this week.
Thompson goes for history
Alexis Thompson has a chance to make history as the youngest player to win the U.S. Women’s Amateur at 14 years, 5 months and 30 days.
A championship for the ages?
History has been tracking Alexis Thompson for some time now, and yet again, the 14-year-old finds herself in a position to make it at the U.S. Women’s Amateur.
Commentary: Can she be best of both worlds?
Jennifer Song might literally become the best of both worlds. The women’s game today can be divided into two golf powerhouses: the U.S. and Korea.
Women’s Am Celebration of the Week Award
Beth Ann Baldry gives out her Best Celebration of the Week Award from the U.S. Women’s Amateur. Tae kwon do, anyone?
The weight of the Wannamaker
Padraig Harrington knows a few things about trophies because, well, he has spent much of his life winning them.
Beware of the injured golfer
Beware of the injured golfer, case No. 1,808,001: Padraig Harrington had to leave the Firestone range Monday because of a stiff neck. He was unable to turn his head as he headed to the clubhouse for treatment.
Big wins for junior boys
Here’s a quick round-up of junior action from around the country this week.
McLachlin's good deed
gives a recap of Parker McLachlin's title defense at the Legends Reno-Tahoe Open.
Let’s get to know some Euro winners
Watch European golf these days and you can be forgiven for feeling like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Thursday, August 6
Commentary: Rowe back in the swing of amateur golf
While looking over the entry list for this year’s Western Amateur at Conway Farms Golf Club, one name jumped out at me – Scott Rowe.
Big day for Smith at Western Amateur
Nathan Smith received a very special birthday gift – and it came from himself.
New grooves? Not so simple
Implementation of the U.S. Golf Association’s new grooves rule doesn’t appear to be so simple.
Song goes for history
Jennifer Song is trying to become only the second player in USGA history to win both the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the WAPL in the same year.
Song is USGA giant
Jennifer Song is becoming a USGA giant.
Schepperle gets slow-play penalty
Candance Schepperle was penalized for slow play.
Song, Salas face off at AM
The day’s most compelling story fell short in the drama department.
Tanco suffers blow at Am
It’s an exhausted old adage, but nothing really describes match play better than “expect the unexpected.”
Keating has fun in Orlando
Stacey Keating had a good week in Orlando recently.
Two marathons at Women's Am
Major props to Mallory Fraiche.
Jungeun in the hunt at Women’s Am
There’s a familiar hat at the U.S. Women’s Amateur that, over the years, has become a beacon of good golf. These hats feature one word: Korea.
Commentary: Teens stealing show at Women’s Am
The chasm that once separated junior golfers from elite amateurs is rapidly narrowing.
Mickelson's changes are too groovy for the USGA
explains that the problems with the USGA's groove change have already begun.
Wednesday, August 5
Walker Cup dreams alive at Western Am
Nathan Smith and Mike McCoy both know how difficult it is for a mid-amateur to be selected to the Walker Cup team.
The Claret sip
Now a word about the comings and goings of the Claret Jug. There’s been more lip on that than when Mick Jagger is at the microphone.
Sim exempt
Michael Sim, the Nationwide Tour’s leading money-winner, has received a special exemption into next week’s PGA Championship. Sim is No. 81 in the Official World Golf Ranking and No. 52 in the Golfweek/Sagarin Performance Index.
Korda captivates media
I’m a Jessica Korda fan because she’s a quote machine.
Lopez makes early exit
No one likes to go home early at the Women's Am.
Interesting matches at Women's Am
There are a few interesting match-ups in the first round.
Medalist in danger at Women's Am
Medalist Danielle Kang is following up with an equally up-and-down first-round match against Amelia Lewis.
Lewis fights on at Women’s Am
Amelia Lewis beat stroke-play medalist Danielle Kang 2 and 1 on Wednesday in the first round of the U.S. Women's Amateur, while 14-year-old sensation Alexis Thompson rolled to an easy victory in steamy conditions at Old Warson.
Say it ain’t so: Song vs. Salas
Whatever way you cut it, either Jennifer Song or Lizette Salas will be eliminated from the U.S. Women’s Amateur on Thursday.
Commentary: Nationwide Tour looks ahead to 2010
Nationwide Tour president Bill Calfee told Golfweek he is “99 percent certain” the Nationwide Tour Players Cup, one of the tour’s original $1 million events, will not return in 2010.
Greenbrier, PGA Tour sign 6-year deal
From the brink of financial ruin, the famed Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., has been taken by Jim Justice on a swift and impressive ride in only two months.
Want to drink from the Claret Jug?
Jeff Rude unveils the four different liquids that have been consumed out of the Claret Jug since it came into Stewart Cink's possession, not to mention the number of people who have had their lips on it.
Sim gets special exemption
learns of a special exemption into next week's PGA Championship.
Solheim style
With the Solheim Cup coming up at the end of the month outside of Chicago, we’re excited to see what our favorite golfers are going to be sporting. Best part: We’ll be able to buy the gear.
Anger Management 101
Anger management. Seems an odd topic at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, where these young women – and in many cases, young girls – are made up of sugar and spice. Their bouncy ponytails, ruffled skirts and sparkling accessories serve as a cover to the competitive fire that burns inside. They want to win. They want to be perfect. And, occasionally, they act out in frustration.
Commentary: Hate to be Rude: Stewart Cink and the Hitchhiker
This is the tale of British Open champion Stewart Cink and The Hitchhiker. Contrary to the sound of it, it’s a comedy, not a horror story.
Commentary: The postseason problem
Jim McCabe on why the FedEx Cup Playoffs might be missing some of its star attractions.
Tuesday, August 4
Tway, Yun, Barlow lead Western Am
It looked like Kevin Tway might be in for a long day as he began his opening round Tuesday in the 107th Western Amateur Championship at Conway Farms Golf Club.
Gillis' journey
Tom Gillis’ third-place finish at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Invitational capped off an impressive stretch of golf from the 41-year-old, who epitomizes the term “journeyman.”
Persimmon anyone?
For about 25 years before the mid-1990s, Guido Ianni of nearby Canton would sell MacGregor Tourney persimmon drivers, vintage early 1950s, to numerous PGA Tour players, both on the range the week of the Firestone tournament and at other Tour events from his car.
U.S. Am qualifying highlights
There were several highlights from U.S. Amateur qualifying.
Kang, 16, medals at Women’s Am
A little money on the line sometimes does more than a good lesson or productive warm-up session.
History reigns at Western Am
Talk about a blast from the past.
Na turns up on LET
One of the most impressive – but somewhat unknown in the U.S. – players at last year's Women's Am was Australian Stephanie Na.
Old Warson playing tough
It's worth mentioning the damage that Old Warson is doing to this year's field.
Driver plagues Song at Am
Jennifer Song isn't too worried about an uncooperative driver.
Determining Women's Am match-play cut
It's tough to tell where the Women's Am cut will fall.
One more year for Fuqua
says Kentucky's Ben Fuqua has been cleared for an additional year of eligibility.
Monday, August 3
English-heavy GB&I team named
English golfers dominate this year’s Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup team. Seven Englishmen have been selected to try to help GB&I captain Colin Dalgleish regain the Cup at Merion Golf Club on September 12-13.
Updated: Walker Cup watch list
The majority of the U.S. Walker Cup team will be selected in a few weeks. Golfweek’s amateur experts have chimed in to let you know who they think would make the team if it were selected today.
Don't forget Ryo
Lost in the shuffle of a Tiger Woods victory-LPGA/Champions Tour majors weekend was yet another victory by Japanese teenager Ryo Ishikawa.
Bye bye Buick
Here’s how Tiger Woods said goodbye to Warwick Hills and the final Buick Open: He not only won for the third time, he wrapped up 35 consecutive under-par rounds at the course over nine starts.
Anderson sits atop Women's Am
Amy Anderson was an unknown when she took the title at the U.S. Girls’ Junior two weeks ago. Now at the top of the leaderboard after Round 1 at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, Anderson no longer has the element of surprise.
Winner’s Circle: July 27 - Aug. 2, 2009
See what the winners had their bags this week.
Rounds played declines 3.3% in June
The number of rounds played in the U.S. fell 3.3 percent in June, but managed to marginally stay ahead of 2008’s pace for the year-to-date period.
Player of the Week: Alexis Thompson
Thompson, of Coral Springs, Fla., shot 16-under 272 (67-68-70-67) at TPC River's Bend in Maineville, Ohio to win the Junior PGA Championship by 12.
Player of the Week: Jay Vandeventer
Vandeventer, of Bristol, Tenn., shot 7-under 207 (69-68-70) at The Virginian Golf Club in Bristol, Va., to win the AJGA's Junior Championship at the Virginian by 10.
Olympics: Golf’s big shot
August 13, 2009, arguably could become the most significant date in golf history. For it may be the day that forever alters how the game grows around the world.
Ricoh renews deal for Women’s British
Ricoh, best known for its office products and digital cameras, announced an agreement to continue sponsoring the Women’s British Open through 2013.
Heartland Hideaways: French Lick
Decades before Larry Bird brought national attention to this oddly named farming community, the rich and famous used to arrive here by train and stay for weeks. Railcars would stop in front of French Lick Springs Hotel, or a mile away at West Baden Springs Hotel, and deposit the likes of John Barrymore, Clark Gable and Abbott & Costello.
Golfweek's Conference Challenge
gives a rundown of the Golfweek's Conference Challenge.
Monday Scramble: LPGA going bling?
Welcome to the Monday Scramble, on the heels of of probably one of the more interesting weeks in golf this year...
Cleburne Links opens near Dallas
has the scoop on Cleburne Golf Links, which opened last month after a six-year upgrading process.
Sunday, August 2
Give it to me live, please
I've been Punk'd. Did a few chores around the house in the hot Florida sun early Sunday morning, pointing my day toward being on the couch by 1 p.m. for the start of ABC's final-round telecast of the Ricoh Women's British Open.
Woods loyal to Buick
Tiger Woods often gets criticized for playing such a limited domestic schedule.
Steele’s resolve powers her to win
Armed with a new heart, a fresh outlook on life and an entire community pushing for her to succeed, Joanne Steele is stronger than ever.
Daly exits Buick in 'toxic state'
Playing for the sixth straight week on a road trip that has taken him to five countries, John Daly felt as though he hit rock bottom Friday with his worst score ever in a regular PGA Tour event that left him wondering whether he should quit.
Woods’ legend grows with No. 69
Tiger Woods won the Buick Open for a third time and claimed his 69th PGA Tour victory.
Commentary: Everyone loves a crowd-pleaser
Professional golf needs more Christina Kims – a lot more.
Saturday, August 1
Where everybody knows your name
I haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing the infamous 16th hole at Phoenix’s FBR Open, but for my money there isn’t a rowdier and more boisterous crowd than the rabid fans at Warwick Hills’ 17th hole.
The Sindelar Shank
The 480-yard par-4 14th is the hardest hole at Crooked Stick Golf Club, so Joey Sindelar was thrilled to see his tee shot carry the hazard that lurks between the tee and the fairway.
Praise for Jackson
Tim Jackson deserves high praise for his performance in Saturday’s third round of the U.S. Senior Open.
Commentary: Achenbach: Funk fights pain at Open
Long and strong, Fred Funk is the most ferocious driver of the golf ball on the Champions Tour. In his dreams.
Woods puts it in overdrive at Buick
Tiger Woods drove on adjacent fairways twice on the back nine, hit a cup of beer in a spectator’s hand, got rattled by a bug and was relegated to shaping some shots around trees and under branches.
Commentary: Matthew lifts Brits to new heights
Catriona Matthew might just spare British blushes.
Commentary: Players gunning for Solheim spots
There is a tournament going on within a tournament here at the Ricoh Women’s British Open. Some of the biggest names in women’s golf are making a last-minute push to get on Solheim Cup teams, and the American race is filled with drama.
