Saturday, March 31
5 Things: Tseng likely to win Kraft
5 Things: While Saturday at the Kraft Nabisco saw strong rounds from Suzann Pettersen and Lexi Thompson, the splash that Yani Tseng is causing with her wins over the past weeks remains at the center of attention.
Sjodin pulls even with Tseng at Kraft Nabisco
Karin Sjodin has a chance to beat the dominant Yani Tseng, as both players finished Saturday's round at the Kraft Nabisco with a shared lead of 9 under.
Oosthuizen leads Shell Houston Open
Louis Oosthuizen shot his second straight 6-under 66 on Saturday to reach 17 under and take a two-shot lead over Hunter Mahan after three rounds of the Shell Houston Open.
Texas, Augusta State tied at Forest Hills
Top-ranked Texas and host Augusta State are tied at 17-under 559 with one round remaining at the Augusta State Invitational, held in the shadow of the year’s first major. TCU freshman Julien Brun holds the individual lead.
Conservative play pays off for Thompson
Saturday's round at the Kraft Nabisco presented challenging, windy conditions, but Lexi Thompson minimized potential damage by playing conservatively and ended the day with a 4-under 68.
Player of the week: Laura Hendee
Laura Hendee of Tampa, Fla., shot 12-over-par 156 (80-76) at Feather Sound Country Club in Clearwater, Fla. to win FCWT at Feather Sound by one shot.
Player of the week: Rigel Fernandes
Rigel Fernandes shot 1-over-par 145 (70-75) at Feather Sound Country Club in Clearwater, Fla. to win FCWT at Feather Sound by three shots.
Olesen leads Sicilian Open by 3 strokes
Thorbjorn Olesen of Denmark made four birdies and an eagle for a 5-under 67 to lead the Sicilian Open by three strokes on Saturday heading to the final round.
Maggert moves into 2nd-round lead in Houston
Jeff Maggert, trying to win his hometown event, shot his second 66 to take the lead at 12 under par after two rounds at the rain-delayed Houston Open.
Woods, McIlroy have starring roles in Masters
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy passed each other on Sunday at Augusta National last year, two players from different generations who appeared headed in opposite directions. Now, headed into Masters 2012, they’re on a collision course — each taking a path over the last 12 months that would have been difficult for anyone to chart.
Hull, Taylor show class despite LGU controversy
Despite recent troubled times, Charley Hull and Lauren Taylor have shown considerable class, which will carry them through to successful careers. Alistair Tait
Friday, March 30
Tseng storms to Kraft Nabisco lead
Yani Tseng shot a second straight 68 at the second day of the Kraft Nabisco Championship, taking a one-stroke lead . . . and she still had enough energy after her round to play some pickup basketball.
Davis, Oosthuizen share lead in Houston
Brian Davis and Louis Oosthuizen shared the lead at 11 under after two days of play in the rain-delayed Houston Open.
Poor putting causes Wie to miss cut at Kraft
After shooting 73-77, recent Stanford grad Michelle Wie misses the cut at the Kraft Nabisco Championship for the first time in eight years.
England’s Ewart thriving in desert golf setting
Jodi Ewart, whose second season on the LPGA Tour has been more successful than her first, makes the cut at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, her first major.
Daly two shots off lead at Sicilian Open
John Daly had five birdies and an eagle for a 5-under 67, finishing two shots off the leaders at the Sicilian Open on Friday.
2012 Masters: 10 to watch not named Tiger or Rory
So, if you’re not named Tiger, Phil, or Rory you can’t expect to possibly be wearing a green jacket come April 8? Nonsense. Here are 10 guys to watch this year.
Reilly (No. 130, 2013) commits to Richmond
Mark Reilly of Babylon, N.Y., has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at Richmond.
2012 Masters: The field and how they qualified
The 97 players who have qualified and are expected to compete in the 76th Masters, to be played April 5-8 at Augusta National Golf Club.
Mickelson takes long road to lead in Houston
We should be used to this by now, but Phil Mickelson's road to his 7-under 65 at the Shell Houston Open was about as unorthodox as it comes. What else did you expect?
Nationwide: Bramlett hopes for home cookin'
Nationwide Tour notes: Joseph Bramlett hopes to use two California events to propel himself back onto the PGA Tour, while Skip Kendall is the early money leader on tour.
Notebook: Ernst represents college game at Kraft
LSU's Austin Ernst is the only current college player in the field at the Kraft Nabisco Championship. She's making good use of the experience. College notebook
Creamer's tearful goodbye to 'Pops'
Paula Creamer lost her No. 1 fan earlier this month - her grandfather, whom she called 'Pops.'
Maui is a breeze, if you can handle the trade winds
Golf on Maui: Wind-whipped morning golf, capped by small doses of afternoon sun and sand, and washed down with umbrella-festooned cocktails and flapping-fresh local seafood.
Thursday, March 29
Kraft notebook: Choi looking for breakthrough
Kraft Nabisco notebook: World No. 2 Na Yeon Choi is battling through a sore back but is determined to be the next emerging star to break through for a major victory.
Yang takes early lead at Kraft Nabisco
Amy Yang shot a 6-under 66 to take a one-stroke lead over Lindsey Wright in the opening round of the Kraft Nabisco Championship on Thursday. World No. 1 Yani Tseng is two back.
Augusta's membership debate back in spotlight
The appointment of a female CEO at IBM has revived the debate over Augusta National’s all-male membership just one week before the Masters, as the last four CEOs of IBM have been members of Augusta.
Mickelson surges into tie for lead in Houston
Phil Mickelson finished a 7-under 65 early Friday to move into contention at the rain-delayed Houston Open.
Thompson could follow same path as Pressel
Thursday's Kraft Nabisco pairing of Morgan Pressel and Lexi Thompson featured the youngest major winner in LPGA history and a player who many expect could challenge that record this year.
Notebook: Kangaroos seek another NCAA kick
Ron Balicki: Last season, Missouri-Kansas City won its first Summit League Championship to gain the school's first NCAA appearance. This season has been up-and-down one for the Kangaroos, and though an appearance at the NCAA Championship is a long shot, anything's possible.
Hull makes an impression with opening 71
With a 1-under 71, Charley Hull makes a great first impression at Kraft Nabisco Championship.
The making of EA Sports' Tiger Woods '13
Golfweek exclusive: We go behind the scenes as EA Sports builds the new Tiger Woods PGA Tour 13, showing us exactly what goes into building it all.
Hubbard (No. 98, 2013) commits to Wisconsin
Richard Hubbard has given a verbal commitment to play college golf in the Big Ten Conference at Wisconsin.
FootJoy's offering: customized green shoes
FootJoy is offering a commemorative shoe for the season's first major - the Masters – and custom-made no less.
Lawrie shoots 64, leads by 1 at Sicilian Open
Peter Lawrie of Ireland led the Sicilian Open by a stroke after shooting an 8-under 64 in the opening round Thursday.
Komoto (No. 26, 2013) commits to Northwestern
Kacie Komoto, ranked No. 26 in the Class of 2013, has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at Northwestern.
Wednesday, March 28
Baldry: Wright stepped away to get herself right
Lindsey Wright struggled with depression and anxiety, leading her to step away from the game. She thought she may never return to inside the ropes. But the Aussie is smiling again, committed to enjoying life.
5 storylines to watch at the Kraft Nabisco
From Stacy Lewis' title defense to Morgan Pressel saying that birdies will be at a premium to Caroline Hedwall's chances this week, here are 5 storylines to watch this week at the Kraft Nabisco Championship.
Video: Beth Ann Baldry previews the Kraft Nabisco
Golfweek senior writer Beth Ann Baldry previews the 2012 Kraft Nabisco Championship.
Colorado women make back-to-back history
The Colorado women's team claimed its second consecutive title Tuesday, holding off California and Tennessee to win the Anuenue Spring Break Challenge at Kapalua's Bay Course.
Hull finds out about Curtis Cup nod via Twitter
Charley Hull expects to accept the LGU's invitation to join the European Curtis Cup team, but she was pretty low-key about the dramatic about-face by the governing body.
Neumann will be Euro captain at '13 Solheim Cup
Liselotte Neumann didn't initially want the job as the captain of Europe's Solheim Cup team in 2013 but realized she would have been 'crazy' not to do it.
Complete coverage: Kraft Nabisco Championship
Golfweek.com is on the ground at Mission Hills Country Club to bring you an up-close look at the 2012 Kraft Nabisco Championship.
Fortune shines on Micheel, Uresti in Houston
Shaun Micheel and Omar Uresti are taking whatever they can get on the PGA Tour.
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Shell Houston Open
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Ernie Els has made his intentions well known - he wants to get into the field at Augusta. He has to win this week to make that happen, and two of our panelists think that he will.
Baldry: Tseng an inspiring and joyful force
From Taiwan to the U.S. - and beyond - Yani Tseng is an inspiring, unifying and joyful force says our Beth Ann Baldry.
Tuesday, March 27
Kraft notes: Tseng works on mental game
Kraft Nabisco Championship notes: Yani Tseng has seen more success since working with Gary Gilchrist on the mental aspects of the game.
Lee earns final spot in Kraft at Legacy Junior
The year of Alison Lee continues as the 17-year-old played her way into the first major of the LPGA season, the Kraft Nabisco Championship. Julie Williams
Ping to introduce adjustable belly putter
Ping is about to become the first major golf equipment manufacturer to introduce an adjustable-length belly putter. It will be called the Nome 405 Belly.
Toy Box: Tiger wins with all Nike
Toy Box notes: At the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Tiger Woods carried all Nike clubs in his first PGA Tour victory since 2009.
Oregon men win home event by two
The Oregon men's team got a 1-2-3 individual finish from Andrew Vijarro, Eugene Wong and Daniel Miernicki, respectively, and held off Long Beach State at its home event, The Duck Invitational, on Tuesday.
Auburn men capture Hootie at Bulls Bay
Three Auburn players finished in the top 4 individually, leading the third-ranked Tigers to their third victory of the season Tuesday at the Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate.
SE Louisiana snaps 2-year drought with victory
Coach Tim Baldwin and Southeastern Louisiana broke a two-year winless streak with a triumph at the UALR/First Tee Collegiate Classic on Tuesday.
Scott taking less-is-more approach to Masters
PGA Tour notes: Adam Scott has played all of eight competitive rounds in 2012. Yes, you read that right. Can he possibly be ready for the Masters next week?
Forged irons: Something for everyone
Forged irons have made a dramatic comeback. Only a few years ago, most irons were made of investment-cast stainless steel. Now we see forged irons in the club lineup of every major club manufacturer.
This week in the world of golf . . .
This week in the world of golf, including the LPGA's Kraft Nabisco and the PGA Tour's Houston Open.
Whitworth to captain U.S. team at 2013 Jr. Solheim
Kathy Whitworth has been selected to captain the U.S. team at the 2013 Junior Solheim Cup.
Hull named to GB&I Curtis Cup squad after all
Charley Hull is named to the GB&I Curtis Cup team despite a previous uproar over her choice to skip a team training session to prepare for this week's Kraft Nabisco Championship.
Monday, March 26
SE Louisiana leads First Tee Collegiate
Southeastern Louisiana fired the best round of the 36-hole day – even-par 288 in the afternoon – to grab a five-stroke lead Monday in the 19th annual University of Arkansas-Little Rock First Tee Collegiate Classic at Chenal Country Club’s Bear Den course.
Tiger completes a crazy Florida Swing on top
From the 62 to the Achilles injury to the victory at Bay Hill, Tiger Woods batted for the cycle this year in the Florida Swing. Ryan Lavner was there for the entire ride.
Architects' society to award First Links grants
says the 'First Links' initiative holds the promise of pairing architects and golf courses to build beginner-friendly venues.
Florida resort owner wants an LPGA event
Sheila Johnson, head of Salamander Hotels & Resorts, wants to host an LPGA event at a Salamander property in Florida. Salamander's Innisbrook Golf Resort is the site of the PGA Tour’s Transitions Championship.
MasterCard extends sponsorship of API
MasterCard announced it will extend its role as presenting sponsor of the Arnold Palmer Invitational for an additional four years, through 2016.
Maginnes: Players diss Arnie by not playing his tourney
Maginnes on Tap: Players should understand that the Arnold Palmer Invitational is about more than a tournament. It is a testament to a man who helped create what the Tour is today.
Palmer released after brief hospital stay
Arnold Palmer was released from an Orlando hospital on Monday after he was treated for high blood pressure relating to a new medicine that he had been prescribed.
Tiger back to being bookies' favorite for Masters
Tiger Woods is back to winning, and back to being the British bookies' favorite to win the Masters. Tiger is listed as the 4-1 favorite to win his fifth Masters title, with Rory McIlroy close behind at 5-1.
Player of the week: Brittany Marchand, N.C. State
The Wolfpack sophomore shot 4-under 68 on March 20 in the final round of the Pinehurst Spring Challenge to capture her second title in the past three events and also lead N.C. State to a team victory at the Pinehurst Spring Challenge.
Team of the week: Texas State
The Bobcats, ranked No. 45 in the Golfweek/Sagarin College Rankings, defeated No. 14 Oklahoma State by eight shots March 20 to win the BYU at Entrada Classic in St. George, Utah, their school-record third victory of the season.
Player of the week: Cory Whitsett, Alabama
All the Crimson Tide sophomore did was shoot an 8-under 64 on March 25 in the final round of the Linger Longer Invitational in Greensboro, Ga., then go 5 under in four playoff holes to earn the individual victory over Georgia's Nick Reach.
Team of the week: Wichita State
The Shockers picked up two victories in as many starts last week – on both sides of the country.
Sunday, March 25
Els struggles, still not in the Masters
Ernie Els’ final-round 75 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational may have cost him a trip to the Masters.
Crane squeezes into the Masters
Ben Crane had to wait until the end of the Arnold Palmer Invitational to make sure he was going to the Masters. And he is after only falling to No. 49 in the world rankings.
5 Things: Tiger moves to No. 6 in OWGR
5 Things: Tiger will move to No. 6 in the world after his win at Bay Hill, while Ernie Els and Graeme McDowell miss out on opportunities on Sunday.
This Tiger looks a lot like the old Tiger
This new Tiger sure looks a lot like the old one and Tiger has only one thing left to prove on his comeback trail - a major title. Conveniently, there is one in a little more than a week . . .
Tiger's Bay Hill win: How it happened
It has been 923 days coming, but Tiger Woods is back on top of a PGA Tour tournament, beating the field by five strokes for his seventh Arnold Palmer Invitational title. Shot-by-shot
Tait: Hoey's success bucking a trend
Michael Hoey continues to overcome the curse of winning the British Amateur.
Casey Wittenberg wins Louisiana Open
Casey Wittenberg won the Louisiana Open on Sunday for his first Nationwide Tour title, closing with a 6-under 65 for an eight-stroke victory.
5 Things: Tseng picks up her 15th career title
5 Things: Yani Tseng wins her 15th career title at the age of 23, keeping ahead of the pace set by Sunday's other big winner – Tiger Woods.
Koepka leads Florida St. to FAU Spring Break title
As the postseason approaches, the Florida State men’s team and Brooks Koepka seem to be warming up at exactly the right time.
Tide, Whitsett take Linger Longer title
It was a clean sweep for the Alabama men’s team and Cory Whitsett at the Linger Longer Invitational. It just took Whitsett a little, well, longer.
Tseng wins Kia Classic by six strokes
Top-ranked Yani Tseng won the Kia Classic on Sunday for her second straight LPGA Tour title and third in five events this year, closing with a 2-under 70 for a six-stroke victory.
McChrystal wins Symetra season opener by one
Megan McChrystal won the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic on March 25, becoming the first winner of the 2012 Symetra Tour season.
Couples sinks birdie putt to win at Fallen Oak
Fred Couples made an 8-foot birdie putt on the final hole Sunday to win the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic.
Weekly Top 5: A women's .500 rule?
Once again, talk of the .500 rule enters women's golf circles.
Hoey wins; Manassero's bid for Masters ends
Michael Hoey of Northern Ireland won the Hassan II Trophy by three strokes Sunday, ending Matteo Manassero's bid to qualify for the Masters.
Miceli: Enough appeal to Arnold Palmer Invite?
Yeah, Tiger is there, but with only two of the world’s top 10 at Bay Hill, some of golf’s establishment – notably ‘The King’ himself – wonder about the appeal of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Live scores: Final round at Bay Hill
Live scoreboard from Round 4 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Fla.
Saturday, March 24
Notes: Tseng closing in on 3rd title in 5 events
LPGA notes: As the golf world turns its attention to the re-emergence of Tiger Woods at Bay Hill, the hottest player in the game is quietly padding her resume. Yani Tseng is on target to win for the third time in five events this year.
Yani Tseng has 3-stroke lead in Kia Classic
Top-ranked Yani Tseng remained in position for her second straight LPGA tour title and third in five events this year, shooting a bogey-free 3-under 69 on Saturday to take a three-stroke lead into the final round of the Kia Classic.
Couples, Sluman tied for lead at Fallen Oak
Jeff Sluman shot an 8-under 64 on Saturday to climb into a tie for the second-round lead with Fred Couples in the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic.
McDowell knows what to expect in showdown
Graeme McDowell and Tiger Woods will share one commonality on Sunday: They are both looking for an elusive win says Alex Miceli.
5 Things: Tiger's statistical dominance at Bay Hill
5 Things: Tiger Woods' statistical dominance at Bay Hill; another Graeme McDowell-Tiger showdown on Sunday; and Ian Poulter's resurgence at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Rude: Tiger can now prove he is back
Jeff Rude: Outside of an errant tee shot, Tiger Woods showed that his ball striking is the best it has been in years. And, on Sunday, he'll face the ultimate litmus test to show the world that he is back.
Els rounding into form; just in time for Augusta?
Sean Martin: Ernie Els doesn't have his invite to the Masters just yet. And, yes, he is thinking about it. The solution? Play like he did on Saturday, and the Augusta tee time will take care of itself.
Manassero's Masters hopes alive in Morocco
Matteo Manassero shot a 7-under 65 for a share of the third-round lead of the Hassan II Trophy on Sunday.
Tiger fires 71, leads Bay Hill by one
Tiger Woods moved ahead by as many as four strokes on Saturday, but a late double-bogey brought him back to the field and he'll take a one-shot lead into the final round at Bay Hill. Shot-by-shot
Father-Son Challenge returns to golf calendar
The Father-Son Challenge is returning to golf this year. Arnold Palmer will serve as the ambassador and PNC Bank will be the title sponsor of the tournament that features major champions teaming up with their sons in a 36-hole tournament.
Live scores: Round 3 at Bay Hill
Live scoreboard from Round 3 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Fla.
Friday, March 23
Tseng takes 2-stroke lead in Kia Classic
Top-ranked Yani Tseng shot a 4-under 68 on Friday to take a two-stroke lead over Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak after the second round of the Kia Classic.
Aztecs, Spaun win again at Barona Collegiate Cup
The wins just keep coming for the San Diego State men’s team and J.J. Spaun.
Tiger, Wi hold one-shot lead at Bay Hill
Tiger Woods putted for birdie on every hole at Bay Hill on Friday. He shares the lead with Charlie Wi, while Graeme McDowell and Jason Dufner trail by one shot.
Tiger fires 65, takes lead at Bay Hill
Tiger Woods is back in a familiar position: atop the leaderboard at Bay Hill. Tiger fired a bogey-free, 7-under 65 to vault into a tie for the lead with Charlie Wi. Shot-by-shot
Couples fires opening-round 63 to take lead
Fred Couples shot a course-record 9-under 63 to take the first-round lead at the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic.
McGrane takes 1-shot lead in Morocco
Damien McGrane of Ireland took a one-stroke lead after completing the delayed second round of the weather-affected Hassan II Trophy in Morocco on Saturday.
Ryder Cup: 5 wild-card candidates for Euros
Ryder Cup 2012: Robert Rock and Anders Hansen highlight five players that could be making a push for European wild-card selection.
Neuhauser starts second Symetra season strong
Carding a first-round 68 at the Florida's Natural Charity Classic, Whitney Neuhauser had a strong start to her second Symetra season.
Pine Dunes: The best little course in Texas
Pine Dunes Resort & Golf Club - a Lone Star hideaway in Frankston, Texas - delivers a sandhills-type thrill.
Notes: CSU Fullerton surges after reinstatement
Taylor Fowler and CSU Fullerton are surging this spring in what could be the Titans' best season in history. College notebook
Live scores: Round 2 at Bay Hill
Live scoreboard from Round 2 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Fla.
Thursday, March 22
Tseng, Oh, Hedwall share Kia Classic lead
Top-ranked Yani Tseng shot a 5-under 67 on Thursday for a share of the first-round lead with Ji Young Oh and Caroline Hedwall in the Kia Classic.
What's your 'birdie yardage'?
From what I see, too many golfers think of their games not in terms of what they usually do, but in terms of what they rarely achieve. And that normally means they need to play a different set of tees.
Prince Course reopens following renovations
The Prince Course in Kauai, Hawaii has reopened following a year-long renovation overseen by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Wi, Dufner share the lead at Bay Hill
Charlie Wi and Jason Dufner share the lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, while Nick Watney and Tiger Woods are in striking distance.
Miami welcomes a newcomer to the 'Cradle'
Zac Zedrick's commitment to instill in Miami University's men's program a culture that breeds success and excellence, makes the coach a perfect addition to Miami's “Cradle of Coaches.”
Notes: Els wants to move past Tampa collapse
Bay Hill notebook: Ernie Els says that he is over his bad finish at Transitions next week, and he wants everyone else to get over it as well. Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson battles back to limit deficit.
The Low Cost of Loving
Even though Joe Pavoni has incurred more financial loss than gain by playing in senior amateur events, he considers himself one of the luckiest golfers in the world due to his strong network of family and friends.
McGrane leads Morocco; Rock's Masters bid ends
Damien McGrane leads the Hassan II Trophy by two strokes, while Robert Rock lost a chance to play in his first Masters by taking an 11 on the fourth hole. Major winners John Daly and Michael Campbell also had difficult days.
I want my metal spikes back!
Whose idea was it to get rid of metal spikes? The greens may be prettier without spike marks, but today's alternative spikes, among other downfalls, fail to produce that sweet tap dance sound.
Out of my mind and into my bag
What Kind of Golf Nerd are You: As we grow older, every little bit helps and getting the equipment that matches your ability and goals is something you can control.
Notebook: Arkansas an NCAA contender
Ron Balicki: Texas and Alabama may be the obvious choices to win the NCAA Championship, but don't discount other top teams such as Arkansas, a team that has six wins on the season.
Rude: Wi has a change in fortune at Bay Hill
Jeff Rude: Charlie Wi posted an octuple bogey last week at the Transitions. He had a shaky track record at Bay Hill. So, of course, he is the early leader at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Tiger fires opening 3-under 69 at Bay Hill
Tiger Woods took advantage of the par 5s on Thursday at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, using three birdies on the long holes to propel him to an opening 3-under 69 at Bay Hill. Shot-by-shot
Hossler (No. 2, 2013) commits to Texas
Beau Hossler, the No. 2-ranked player in the 2013 class, has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at the University of Texas.
The Grip Master spreads the leather love
Geoff Ogilvy, Adam Scott and Jarrod Lyle still use leather grips, once something that the bulk of players did. The Grip Master is trying to lead the comeback.
Player of the week: Michael Visacki
Michael Visacki of Sarasota, Fla., shot even-par 144 (72-72) at Mission Inn Resort & Club’s El Campeon Course in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla. to win the FJT Mission Inn Resort by one shot.
Player of the week: Madison Opfer
Madison Opfer,17, of Plant City, Fla. Shot 4-under 140 (71-69) at Mission Inn Resort & Club’s Las Colinas Course in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla. to win the FJT Mission Inn Resort by five shots.
Symetra Tour preview: Players to watch
Symetra Tour preview: The Symetra Tour kicks off March 23 with the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic. Keep an eye on these 10 players.
Live scores: Round 1 at Bay Hill
Live scoreboard from Round 1 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Fla.
Wednesday, March 21
Palmer chides McIlroy, Donald for not playing
Notes: Arnold Palmer declared Bay Hill to be the best it has ever been in the 34-year history of the tournament. But he was disappointed not to have the best two players who are PGA Tour members.
Tiger strains back in pro-am, says he's fine
Hate To Be Rude: Tiger Woods gets a scare on Wednesday when he felt a twinge in his back, but says he is healthy and is showing a more cautious nature in dealing with injuries.
In this issue: March 23, 2012
Inside the March 23, 2012 issue of Golfweek:
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Arnold Palmer Invitational
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Webb Simpson showed signs of his 2011 form at Transitions last week, and two of our panelists believe he'll take home the title at Bay Hill this week.
Tuesday, March 20
Rude: Tiger's short game is the obstacle
Jeff Rude: Tiger Woods seems to be healthy. And his ball-striking is impressive. It will be the work he does on the greens that will allow him to win over the next few weeks.
Last week to get into Masters through ranking
Notes: This is the final week for players to secure a spot in the Masters through the OWGR, with stars such as Ben Crane and Paul Lawrie teetering on the edge of an invite to Augusta National.
Review: Behind the scenes of Tiger Inc.
In medicine, there’s a legally established principle of confidentially that survives the therapeutic relationship. Not so on the driving range, as Tiger Woods now knows thanks to Hank Haney's upcoming book "The Big Miss."
USC wins Rancho Bernardo
USC won the Battle at Rancho Bernardo at Rancho Bernardo Inn Championship GC in San Diego on March 20 with a final team score of 14-over 590, two shots ahead of runner-up Arizona State.
Tiger has up-and-down day at Tavistock
Tiger Woods seems to be healthy, but his game struggled a bit on Tuesday on Day 2 at the Tavistock Cup, settling for an even-par round during singles action. Round 2 recap
Wichita State wins Rio Pinar Invitational
Wichita State claimed its first Rio Pinar Invitational team title Tuesday — the Shockers’ first such accomplishment in 16 seasons under head coach Grier Jones.
Maginnes On Tap: Give Sean Foley some credit
There are those who are going to judge Sean Foley on Woods’ performance alone. . . . But while that is going on, he has other students who are emerging at the top of the game.
Arkansas claims victory at Match Play
Arkansas adds another title this season with a victory at the Callaway Match Play Championship.
Maginnes On Tap: Aptly named 'Transitions'
Maginnes On Tap: A PGA Tour career is about achieving levels of success and then feeling comfortable at that level.
Changes OK’d for Q-School, 2013-14 season
PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem announced significant changes to the structure of how players qualify for the Tour.
Toy Box: Donald wins with new Mizuno sticks
When Luke Donald won Sunday at the Transitions Championship to regain the No. 1 world ranking, he was carrying 12 clubs that were new to his bag this year. This is the player who won two money titles in 2011, but that didn’t stop him from making wholesale changes in his bag.
This week in the world of golf . . .
The week ahead in the world of golf includes the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where six-time Bay Hill winner Tiger Woods is returning to tour play two weeks after withdrawing in the final round at Doral because of a mild strain in his left Achilles tendon.
McCabe: Remembering Furman Bisher
Let’s raise a toast to a writer who was equal parts feisty, ornery, crusty, funny, passionate and loyal.
Haney portrait of Tiger: Player never satisfied
In his upcoming book, "The Big Miss," former coach Hank Haney shows Tiger Woods to be a complicated person who sought change to keep stimulated, who was rarely satisfied and was self-centered in his pursuit of greatness.
Monday, March 19
Edwin Watts enters Iowa market with acquisition
Continuing to expand its national footprint, Edwin Watts Golf Shops LLC announced March 19 the establishment of its first location in Iowa.
NGF: Course closures continue market correction
According to the National Golf Foundation, 157 1/2 golf courses closed in 2011, compared with 19 openings, measured in 18-hole equivalents.
Duke, Arkansas advance to Match Play finals
Ethan Tracy and Arkansas will meet Duke, the defending champion, in the final match of the Callaway Match Play. Julie Williams
Transitions Q&A: Robert Irvine, celebrity chef
As a star of reality TV, Irvine can be seen on such Food Network staples as “Dinner: Impossible,” “Worst Cooks in America” and “Restaurant: Impossible.” Irvine, an Englishman, was on the grounds at last week’s Transitions Championship at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor, Fla., preparing his healthful cuisine for the patrons.
Tiger looks healthy, plays well at Tavistock
Tiger Woods looked healthy and strong as he partnered with Justin Rose to fire a 9-under 63 on Day 1 at the Tavistock Cup in Orlando, Fla. Tiger Tracker
Donald reclaims top OWGR spot, ousting McIlroy
Just as Rory McIlroy ascended to the top spot in the OWGR with a victory at the Honda Classic, Luke Donald reclaimed that position by winning the Transitions Championship.
Ishikawa takes special membership on PGA Tour
Japanese star Ryo Ishikawa has decided to take special temporary membership on the PGA Tour, which allows him to accept as many sponsor exemptions as he wants for the rest of the 2012 season.
Player of the week: Paula Reto, Purdue
The Boilermakers junior shot a school- and tournament-record 8-under 64 in the final round and finished with a school-record 9-under 207 total to win the individual title by 10 shots and lead Purdue to a third-place finish March 17 at the Insperity Lady Jaguar Intercollegiate in Augusta, Ga.
Team of the week: Colorado
Led by a 1-2-3 finish from Jessica Wallace, Alex Stewart and Emily Talley, respectively, the Buffaloes finished at 9-under 855 and rolled to a 31-shot victory over Oklahoma on March 18 at the Clover Cup in Mesa, Ariz.
Player of the Week: Ben Kohles, Virginia
The Cavaliers senior captured medalist honors at the Schenkel Invitational with an 18-under 198 (65-66-67), three ahead of Auburn’s Blayne Barber (66-67-68).
Team of the week: Alabama
The Crimson Tide placed four players in the top 5 – all at 10 under or better – and posted a school- and tournament-record 47-under 817 total March 18 on its way to a dominating victory at the Schenkel Invitational in Statesboro, Ga.
Adidas Group to acquire Adams Golf for $70 million
In the latest round of industry consolidation, the Adidas Group, TaylorMade's parent, announced Monday it will acquire Adams Golf for $70 million.
Molinari facing surgery on injured wrist
Edoardo Molinari is planning to have surgery on his injured left wrist later this year. Molinari said after finishing with a share of 11th place in the Andalucian Open on Sunday that he has had the injury for four years.
Palmer has uncommon connection with fans, press
On the eve of his PGA Tour invitational, Arnold Palmer makes a connection that stands as a model for any era says our Jeff Rude.
Sunday, March 18
Sportswriter Furman Bisher dies at 93
Famed Georgia sportswriter Furman Bisher, who covered everything from major golf tournaments to the Triple Crown during a career that spanned six decades, died Sunday of a massive heart attack outside Atlanta.
Roberts earns 13th Champions Tour victory
Loren Roberts shot a 69 on Sunday to win the Toshiba Classic by two strokes over Mark Calcavecchia, Tom Kite and Bernhard Langer.
Tseng wins LPGA Founders Cup by a shot
Yani Tseng two-putted for par from 40 feet in fading light to hold off Ai Miyazato and Na Yeon Choi by a stroke Sunday in the LPGA Founders Cup.
Donald earns respect with Transitions win
Jeff Babineau: Rory McIlroy took the World No. 1 ranking and all of the headlines two weeks ago at the Honda Classic. On Sunday, Luke Donald emphatically responded.
Tait: Jimenez keeps event alive with own money
Alistair Tait: Julien Quesne says that Sunday was the "best day of my life," and he should thank Miguel Angel Jimenez for that.
Colorado leaves field far behind at Clover Cup
Colorado earned a big win at the Clover Cup on March 18, finishing 31 shots ahead of runner-up Oklahoma. It’s the second title of the season for the Buffs, who also won the Edean Ihlanfeldt Invitational in the fall.
Long Beach St., Washington are Bandon co-champs
Long Beach State made a big surge on Sunday, making up seven strokes to finish as co-champions with Washington at the Bandon Dunes Championship.
Clemson three-peats at Furman
The Clemson men’s team has found a home away from home at the Furman Intercollegiate.
5 Things: Donald wins; Els, Goosen struggle
5 Things: Luke Donald climbs back to World No. 1 with a birdie on the first hole of a four-way playoff, while Ernie Els and Retief Goosen falter on Sunday.
Host Gators edge Tide by a shot
Freshman Camilla Hedberg came up big for host Florida at the SunTrust Gator Women’s Invitational, posting a key birdie on No. 16 and a crucial par save on the final hole Sunday to clinch a one-shot victory over second-ranked Alabama.
Donald back at No. 1 after Transitions win
Luke Donald won the Transitions Championship on the first hole of a four-way playoff, and regains World No. 1 status in the process. Check out how the entire day unfolded in Tampa.
Texas-San Antonio wins again at Lady Jaguar
Texas-San Antonio won its third tournament of the season March 18 at the Insperity Lady Jaguar Intercollegiate. The Roadrunners finished comfortably ahead of tournament host Augusta State.
Tide sets records at Schenkel
The Alabama men’s team rebounded quite well from a disappointing weekend in Las Vegas.
Charlie Wi makes a 13 at Innisbrook
Charlie Wi picked up a 13 on the par-5 fifth hole at the Transitions Championship, the second straight week on the PGA Tour that someone made an octuple-bogey.
Quesne wins Euro Tour's Andalucian Open
Julien Quesne tied the course record with an 8-under 64 on Sunday to win the Andalucian Open for his first European Tour victory.
Live scores: Final round at Transitions
Follow the final-round scoreboard at the PGA Tour's Transitions Championship
Saturday, March 17
Calcavecchia leads Toshiba, Couples in hunt
Mark Calcavecchia shot his second straight 4-under 67 in rainy conditions Saturday to take a two-stroke lead in the Champions Tour's Toshiba Classic.
Miyazato, Tseng share lead in Founders Cup
Ai Miyazato birdied three straight holes on the back nine and finished with a 6-under 66 on Saturday for a share of the lead with Yani Tseng in the LPGA Founders Cup.
Els makes run, still frustrated with putter
Ernie Els made a run on Saturday at the Transitions Championship, but it could have been even better if it wasn't for his faulty putter.
Spaun, San Diego State win National Invitational
Behind J.J. Spaun's medalist performance, San Diego State held off UNLV to win the National Invitational Tournament in Arizona to win its third straight tournament.
Lamar holds off Baylor for Border Olympics title
Behind MJ Daffue, Lamar picked up a five-stroke victory over Baylor at the Border Olympics on the par-72 Laredo Country Club in Laredo, Texas.
Texas men win Morris Williams Intercollegiate
Top-ranked Texas won the Morris Williams Intercollegiate by 16 strokes, while a trio of Longhorns - Jordan Spieth, Dylan Frittelli (above) and Julio Vegas - tied for medalist honors.
Rude: Goosen surges despite back injury
Retief Goosen already has pulled out of Bay Hill next week because of his bum back. But he somehow pulled off a 6-under 65 on Saturday in Tampa to vault into a share of the lead.
Furyk, Goosen lead at Transitions Championship
Veterans Jim Furyk and Retief Goosen spent much of the day chasing Sang-Moon Bae, but the former major winners overtook the rookie and will play in Sunday's final group at the Transitions.
Live scores: Round 3 at Transitions
Check out scores from Round 3 at the PGA Tour's Transitions Championship
De la Riva leads Andalucia, 18 within 4 strokes
Unheralded Spanish golfer Eduardo De la Riva shot a 4-under 68 Saturday for a one-stroke lead after three rounds of the Andalucia Open.
Friday, March 16
Top-ranked Tseng leads LPGA Founders Cup
Top-ranked Yani Tseng shot a 2-under 70 on Friday to take a one-stroke over five players after the second round of the LPGA Founders Cup.
Langer, Clampett, Browne share lead
Bernhard Langer birdied the final hole for a 6-under 65 and a share of the first-round lead Friday with Bobby Clampett and Olin Browne in the Champions Tour's Toshiba Classic.
Tiger will play Tavistock, Bay Hill
Tiger Woods said in a story on his website that his left Achilles tendon felt good and that he would play in the two-day Tavistock Cup exhibition that starts Monday, and then at Bay Hill.
Up by 2, Dufner says he's ready to win
Jason Dufner is 0-for-159 on the PGA Tour, the only player among the top 50 in the world without a win on any tour. He'll take a two-shot lead into the weekend at the Transitions Championship.
Atwal makes first cut of 2012 Tour season
Arjun Atwal finally will pick up a paycheck at the end of this week, making his first cut in eight starts on the PGA Tour in 2012.
Harrington still riding a roller coaster
Padraig Harrington continues to ride his personal roller coaster, carding a 2-over 73 on Friday.
Spain's De La Riva leads Andalucia Open
Eduardo De La Riva, a Spaniard ranked 610th in the world, shot a 3-under 69 on Friday to take a one-stroke lead after two rounds in the Andalucia Open.
Tait: Sunningdale Foursomes is golf at its best
The golf season is officially under way for our Alistair Tait, but it has nothing to do with Rory McIlroy or Lee Westwood - it has everything to do with the Sunningdale Foursomes, or golf at its best.
Live scores: Round 2 at Transitions
Check out scores from Round 2 at the PGA Tour's Transitions Championship
Thursday, March 15
Tseng, Park top LPGA Founders Cup leaderboard
Top-ranked Yani Tseng played a seven-hole stretch on the back nine in 7 under and finished with a 7-under 65 on Thursday for a share of the first-round lead with Hee Young Park in the LPGA Founders Cup.
Handful of LPGA stars sporting new looks
From significant weight loss by Pat Hurst and Karen Stupples, to a new hairdo from Jiyai Shin (right), plenty of players are sporting new looks in 2012.
Notes: Win signals progress for O'Donnell, Popson
Catherine O'Donnell and Erica Popson have made big strides since undergoing thumb surgeries in the offseason. They co-medaled at the LSU Golf Classic. College notebook
Senden begins to validate short-game work
John Senden's biggest weakness has been the flatstick. That is changing quickly.
Dye builds legacy by getting hands dirty
For 50 years, Pete Dye has built a legacy by getting his hands dirty
Harrington opens with a 61 at Innisbrook
Padraig Harrington knew he was playing better golf than his scores indicated. He just wasn't expecting the lowest official score of his life, a 10-under 61 to set the course record at Transitions.
Notes: A strange new world for Cowboys
Notes: After a stellar 2010-11 season, Oklahoma State lost three first-team All-Americans, which dimmed the Cowboys' prospects for 2011-12.
Aubert wins Kathy Whitworth Invitational
Shannon Aubert captured the Kathy Whitworth Invitational on March 13 by a two-shot margin over runners up Christine Lin and Samantha Wagner.
CC of Birmingham chosen for 2013 Mid-Am
The USGA has announced that the Country Club of Birmingham (Ala.) will host the U.S. Mid-Amateur in 2013. The 2013 Mid Amateur, to be played Oct. 5-10, will be the club’s maiden USGA championship.
Player of the Week: Carter Patterson
Carter Patterson of The Woodlands, Texas, shot 3-under 141 (71-70) at Traditions Golf Club at Texas A&M in Bryan, Texas to win the TJGT Spring Break Invitational by three shots.
Player of the Week: Shannon Aubert
Shannon Aubert of Reunion, Fla., shot 1-over 143 (73-70) at Mira Vista CC in Fort Worth, Texas, to win the Kathy Whitworth Invitational by two shots.
Masters 2012: Tiger says 'I'll be there'
Tiger Woods, making the rounds in New York to promote the 2013 version of his EA Sports video game, told Good Morning America that he will play the Masters, and likely at Bay Hill as well.
Texas A&M earns comeback win in Hawaii
Texas A&M jumped from second to first in the final round of the Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational to win its first team title of the season.
Live scores: Round 1 at Transitions
Follow the scoreboard at the PGA Tour's Transitions Championship in Tampa, Fla.
Manassero's 64 equals course record in Spain
Italian teenager Matteo Manassero boosted his hopes of qualifying for the Masters with a 64 that equaled the course record on opening day of the Andalucian Open.
Wednesday, March 14
In this issue: March 16, 2012
Inside the March 16, 2012 issue of Golfweek
Transitions pairs twentysomething stars
It's youth week at Transitions as twentysomethings Bud Cauley, Ryo Ishikawa and Tom Lewis will be paired in the first two rounds.
Wrist surgery will shelve Goydos till summer
Paul Goydos, a two-time PGA Tour winner, will miss 10-15 weeks after surgery on his left wrist Monday in California.
Variety abounds in choosing your grips
Grip Month: It is often said the grip is the only part of the golf club actually touched by golfers. Consequently, feeling comfortable with a grip is crucial. This is accomplished by finding the proper size and style of grip.
Hate To Be Rude: Golf is ushering in its future
Like Hogan-to-Palmer and then Palmer-to-Nicklaus and then Nicklaus-to-Woods, this appears to be a convergence of eras as Woods-to-McIlroy ushers golf into its future.
Tuesday, March 13
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Transitions Championship
Fantasy Tip Sheet: John Senden has been playing some of the best golf of his career, and a pair of our fantasy experts think he'll win in Tampa this weekend.
Toy Box Notes: A TaylorMade victory for Rose
Justin Rose captured his fourth PGA Tour victory, with a come-from-behind win over Bubba Watson at the WGC-Cadillac Championship. He did it with a bag heavy in TaylorMade gear.
Behind the scenes: Tiger-Shaq commercial shoot
Tiger Woods and Shaquille O’Neal teamed up to shoot a kung fu-themed commercial for EA Sports' new golf video game and Golfweek was on hand for a behind-the-scenes look.
2012 Golfweek's Best Classic Courses
These courses were built before 1960. Pine Valley Golf Club, 1919, tops the list this year.
Woods remains hopeful for Bay Hill start
Tiger Woods reported on his Twitter account Monday night that his left Achilles tendon is only mildly strained. He remains hopeful he'll be able to play at Bay Hill next week.
Injury aside, Tiger is a favorite at the Masters
His Achilles injury aside, Tiger Woods emerges as a favorite to add to his collection of green jackets in a few weeks at Augusta National. Rory McIlroy and Rickie Fowler, however, won't be standing idly by.
Monday, March 12
Callaway calls Brewer’s number
Known for grinding out market-share gains, Chip Brewer, Callaway's new CEO, has been charged to rejuvenate the iconic brand.
Euro Tour announces Jr. Ryder Cup selection criteria
The European Tour has announced how it will select the six boys and six girls who will compete against the Americans in this summer’s Junior Ryder Cup.
North Florida wins Hackler for 3rd season title
North Florida won its third event of the season Monday, narrowly clipping East Carolina at the General Hackler Championship.
College top 5: Entertaining thoughts of postseason
So what if postseason is still a couple of months away? Lance Ringler's head already is filled with talk of magic numbers, match-play brackets and the race for Player of the Year.
Marilynn Smith shines in Founders spotlight
The first stateside event on the LPGA tour schedule, this week's RR Donnelley Founders Cup, will pay tribute to trailblazers such as Marilynn Smith. Beth Ann Baldry says it's well deserved.
2012 Golfweek's Best Courses: State by State
The number of courses per state varies based on course supply, population and level of play; includes daily-fee layouts and courses accessible via resorts.
Player of the week: Christine Wong, San Diego State
The Aztecs junior opened a wire-to-wire victory at the Bruin/Wave Invitational with a 4-under 68 and finished with a 3-over 219 total for a four-shot victory.
Team of the week: Pepperdine
The Waves held off a charging top-ranked UCLA team at the Bruin/Wave Invitational on March 6 to win its first major tournament title since last spring’s UNLV Spring Invitational.
Player of the week: Blake Biddle, UNLV
The Rebels senior entered the final 18 holes five shots behind second-round leader Logan McCracken of Texas Tech.
Team of the week: UNLV
Trailing California by six strokes at the start of the day, the Rebels shot the best final-round team score, a 5-over 293, to edge the Golden Bears, who shot 12-over 300, by a shot March 11 at the Southern Highlands Collegiate Masters.
Sunday, March 11
Tiger withdraws at Doral with Achilles injury
Tiger Woods withdrew from the WGC-Cadillac Championship Sunday, citing a left Achilles injury. Woods says the injury will be evaluated "sometime early next week."
Notes: Cal's Kilpatrick gets a tough break
Notes: Cal's Keelan Kilpatrick did everything right on the 9th hole, but the course had other ideas for the Golden Bear.
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UNLV clips Cal for huge home win
Facing plenty of questions about its level of talent, UNLV shut up any doubters with a big win over an all-star field at the Southern Highlands Collegiate Masters.
5 Things: Rose has his eyes on a major win
5 Things: Justin Rose now has his eyes on a major victory, Bubba Watson falls apart only to get another chance and Rory McIlroy is showing why he is the World No. 1.
Paul Haley II wins Nationwide's Chile Classic
Paul Haley II won the Chile Classic in his third career Nationwide Tour start, closing with a 1-under 71 on Sunday for a three-stroke victory.
Ishikawa earns status on anniversary of disaster
On the one-year anniversary of the devastating Japanese earthquake and tsunami, Ryo Ishikawa paid homage to his fellow countrymen by earning his PGA Tour card.
Tait: Lloyd, Haines are players to watch
Phillip Archer won on the Challenge Tour this weekend, but it is those that finished behind him that you might want to keep an eye on.
Rose wins at Doral after Watson misses putt
On a day of endless drama at Doral, Justin Rose won the Cadillac Championship standing on the practice range. Rose closed with a 2-under 70 on Sunday for a one-shot victory over Bubba Watson.
McNeill birdies last three to win in Puerto Rico
George McNeill has birdied his last three holes for a 3-under 69 to rally past Japanese star Ryo Ishikawa and win the Puerto Rico Open.
Host Seminoles top Georgia Tech
Florida State won its home event, the Seminole Intercollegiate, Sunday, coming from behind to finish ahead of Georgia Tech. It’s the first win of the season for Florida State, and the fifth time the team has finished in the top 10 in six starts this season.
Popson leads Tennessee to LSU Classic title
Tennessee upset SEC foe LSU on its home course March 11, winning the LSU Golf Classic by two shots. It’s the first win of the season for the Lady Vols.
Garcia makes a 12 on 3rd hole at Doral
Sergio Garcia hit four balls into the water for a 12 on the par-4 third hole at Doral on Sunday.
Saturday, March 10
California retains lead at Southern Highlands
It was more of the same Saturday at the Southern Highlands Masters, where California and Max Homa (pictured) retained their lead in the Las Vegas desert. Ron Balicki
Rude: Players are making it look easy at Doral
We knew these guys were good, but some of the scores this week at Doral are just head-scratching. But as we've learned this year, not even a three-shot lead is safe. Jeff Rude
Five Things: Grace sets pace for low scoring
The third round of the WGC-Cadillac Championship was predicated on scoring. With perfect weather conditions, you had to go low to move up.
An Irish flavor in McIlroy-McDowell group
Despite the pleasant weather and the lack of hills, there was a certain flair of Northern Ireland in the Rory McIlroy-Graeme McDowell pairing Saturday at Doral. Jim McCabe
Watson holds three-shot lead at Doral
It was a wild day at Doral, with Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods making appearances on the leaderboard. But it's Bubba Watson who will take a three-shot lead into Sunday's final round.
Stenson still searching for game in Puerto Rico
While he isn't among those looking to regain full PGA Tour status, Henrik Stenson is in Puerto Rico to find something more important: his game. Sean Martin
McNeil leads by one at Puerto Rico Open
George McNeill had a 5-under 67 on Saturday and took a one-shot lead over Henrik Stenson and Kevin Stadler going into the final round of the Puerto Rico Open.
Tiger Tracker: Woods well back after Round 3
Tiger Woods shot 4-under 68 Saturday at the WGC-Cadillac Championship, but he still has plenty of ground to make up on leader Bubba Watson. Live Tiger updates
Friday, March 9
Cal men take lead at Southern Highlands
Coach Steve Desimone and his No. 10 Cal men's squad took the first-round lead at the Southern Highlands Masters in Las Vegas, with the likes of Texas and UCLA trying to chase down the Golden Bears.
Five Things: Watson making best of it at Doral
Bubba Watson has said the TPC Blue Monster at Doral doesn't really suit him. You wouldn't have guessed it Friday, as he shot 62 to take the lead at the WGC-Cadillac Championship. Five Things
Rude: Smallest player Kruger swings big stick
South African Jbé Kruger isn't even 5 1/2 feet tall, but his game is blossoming into something big in 2012. Jeff Rude
Watson shoots 62, takes lead at windy Doral
Bubba Watson and Justin Rose put on an amazing show of birdies in blustery conditions at Doral, making 17 between them while playing in the same group Friday at the Cadillac Championship.
Jones grabs three-shot Puerto Rico lead
Matt Jones shot a 5-under 67 in windy conditions Friday to open a three-stroke lead over George McNeill in the PGA Tour’s Puerto Rico Open.
With hot putter, Yang shoots 67 at Doral
The two combatants who battled down the final 18 holes of the 2009 PGA Championship at Hazeltine National shot identical 5-under 67s on Friday in the second round of the WGC-Cadillac Championship. But with most of the ink dedicated to Tiger Woods, who tied his second best score of the young PGA Tour season, it seems only appropriate to give kudos to the winner of that PGA, Y.E. Yang.
Tiger Tracker: Woods fires 5-under 67
Tiger Woods continued his mastery of the Blue Monster's par 5s, firing a bogey-free, 5-under 67 Friday to stay in contention at the WGC-Cadillac Championship in Doral, Fla. Shot-by-shot
Notes: Ishikawa chasing his Tour card
5 Things: Ryo Ishikawa initially was using Puerto Rico as a last-ditch opportunity to play his way into the Masters. Now that he received a special exemption to Augusta, he is chasing a Tour card instead.
Notebook: Win shifts Waves' momentum
Even with UCLA rapidly approaching, a young Pepperdine team captured its first win of the season at the Bruin/Wave. Is it a sign of more good things to come? Julie Williams
Tait: Let kids play for free, watch the game grow
proposes a still uncommon proposal to grow the game: Let children play for free.
Thursday, March 8
Players' work cut out for them at windy Doral
One player hit the par-5 first in two shots with an 8-iron Thursday. To reach the par-4 18th in two, he needed a hybrid. The wind giveth and taketh away at Doral. Jim McCabe
PGA Tour's Jarrod Lyle has leukemia recurrence
Jarrod Lyle has had a recurrence of leukemia at home in Australia, just as the 30-year-old is preparing to become a father for the first time.
Jones, McNeil lead Puerto Rico Open
Matt Jones and George McNeill topped the leaderboard at 6-under 66 on Thursday in the PGA Tour's windy Puerto Rico Open.
Well-rested Scott tied for early lead at Doral
After playing only five competitive rounds since November, Adam Scott showed no signs of rust Thursday at Doral, tying Jason Dufner for the first-round lead. Jeff Rude
Scott, Dufner share first-round lead at Doral
Adam Scott dealt with the wind by keeping the ball in play and had a 6-under 66 to tie for the lead with Jason Dufner in the Cadillac Championship.
Tiger Tracker: Woods starts with 72 at Doral
Tiger Woods couldn't come up with enough birdies for a low first round at Doral on Thursday, but still showed streaks of brilliance. First-round recap
Golf in South Florida a rich, luxurious experience
Eclectic culture makes South Florida a unique golf destination. Kevin Adams explains.
Men's Notebook: Player-of-the-year watch
On the eve of the Southern Highlands Collegiate, Sean Martin takes a look at the player-of-the-year race in college golf. College Notebook
Pinehurst anticipates changes for North & South
Pinehurst Resort and its famed No. 2 course are facing a logistical traffic jam in the summer of 2014. With the men’s and women’s U.S. Opens being played in consecutive weeks, Pinehurst’s men’s and women’s North & South Amateurs, which typically fall within weeks of the national Opens, would seem to be under assault.
Trump's vision for Doral: Awaken a Miami classic
Donald Trump plans to invest $200 million to transform his latest golf acquisition: Doral Golf Resort.
Symetra Tour player cited in DUI arrest
Rachel Connor, an English golfer on the LPGA’s Symetra Tour, was arrested early Wednesday morning in Florida on suspicion of driving under the influence, according to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Wednesday, March 7
Hate to be Rude: Consistency at the top
Add Rory McIlroy to the world's best, and the game's upper rung suddenly gets a lot more interesting. With the Masters drawing near, Jeff Rude explains why that's good for the game.
Notes: Casey returns to competition at Doral
Paul Casey already has missed five tournaments this year after dislocating his right shoulder while snowboarding over the holidays. It’s a bad time for an injury, especially in a Ryder Cup year, though Casey has a good reason to feel optimistic.
Preus (NR, 2013) commits to Texas
Kalena Preus of Honolulu has given a verbal commitment to Texas, the top-ranked men’s program in Golfweek’s rankings. Preus will become a Longhorn in the fall of 2013.
Hanse's task at Doral: Preserve yet modernize
Donald Trump will signal a start to the WGC-Cadillac Championship with a press conference to discuss his purchase of the host venue this week, Doral Golf Resort & Spa. Gil Hanse, chosen course designer of the 2016 Rio Olympics course, will revamp the Blue Monster course at Doral.
Mickelson: Augusta softens Nos. 8, 16
Phil Mickelson said changes to the greens at Augusta National's Nos. 8 and 16 holes have softened some of the hole locations, making it potentially easier for players to attack the pins during the 75th Masters. Miceli
Nation's best headed to Southern Highlands
It has been a number of years since I’ve been to UNLV’s tournament, the Southern Highlands Collegiate Masters, so I’m pretty excited about getting back this coming weekend.
Back on her game, Granada feels like a million bucks
After a less-than-stellar couple of years, Julieta Granada is back in contention on the LPGA.
Sandestin resort to host D3 championships in '13
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has been selected to host the 2013 NCAA Division III Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships, host Methodist University and the NCAA announced.
Woods: Last week's 62 is all part of the past
Sure, Tiger Woods' final-round 62 last week was brilliant, but the thing is, it happened last week. It was something Woods was quick to point out Wednesday at Doral.
In choosing Hanse, IOC makes 'wise' decision
says design trumped politics in the selection of Gil Hanse as Olympic architect.
Hanse should be a natural fit for Rio
Landing the plum assignment of designing the 2016 Olympic golf course in Rio de Janeiro is a milestone career achievement for Gil Hanse.
Doral: Check out Round 1 tee times
WGC-Cadillac Championship at Doral: Check out first-round tee times, including Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods
Hanse, Alcott to design Olympic course
American architect Gil Hanse and LPGA legend Amy Alcott will design the 2016 Olympic golf course in Rio, winning the selection Wednesday over Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Gary Player.
Fantasy Tip Sheet: WGC-Cadillac at Doral
Fantasy Tip Sheet: Tiger and Rory will provide plenty of headlines this week at Doral, but two of our fantasy panelists think that Lee Westwood will be hosting the trophy at Doral come Sunday.
World Golf Championships gaining traction
Tiger Woods has won 16 World Golf Championships, which means that he won 16 events against the best players in golf. Based on the players attracted and winners produced, it stands to reason that the WGCs deserve a higher status.
Tuesday, March 6
Ching claims title at Fresno State Classic
Alex Ching of San Diego shot a final-round 3-under 69 to claim medalist honors at the Fresno State Lexus Golf Classic.
Pepperdine holds off UCLA for Bruin/Wave title
Grace Na and her Pepperdine teammates won their first team title of the season Tuesday at the Bruin/Wave Invitational, which is a notable feat considering they were chased by top-ranked UCLA.
Notes: Oosthuizen to play Doral, but not pain-free
Two days after withdrawing from the final round of the Honda Classic, Louis Oosthuizen was back at work at Doral’s TPC Blue Monster, determined to give it a go at the WGC-Cadillac Championship.
Cal wins in San Jose for second spring title
California’s spring season is beginning to look eerily familiar. The Golden Bears won their second title of the season Tuesday, repeating last year’s success exactly.
IOC visits Rio ahead of golf course announcement
IOC officials began a three-day trip to Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday to discuss the city’s preparations for the 2016 Olympics, and organizers will reveal Wednesday the designer of the first Olympic golf course in more than 100 years.
In this issue: March 9, 2012
Inside the March 9, 2012 issue of Golfweek
Knights prevail at USF Invitational
The Central Florida men’s team came close to a huge victory last week at the John Hayt Invitational before succumbing by four shots to Southeastern Conference member Arkansas, a top-10 team.
Ohio State tops host Miami in Hurricane playoff
Ohio State won a team playoff Tuesday over tournament host Miami at the Hurricane Invitational for its first team title of the season.
Getting Tour access proves to be a 'Stretch'
PGA Tour Entertainment touted its new reality series, “Down the Stretch,” as a chance to get inside a contender’s mind. But have the producers taken on a near-impossible task?
Masters gives exemption to Ryo Ishikawa
Ryo Ishikawa no longer has to worry about trying to qualify for the Masters. The 20-year-old from Japan received a special invitation for the second time.
LSU wins home-state event
Led by a 1-2 finish from sophomore Andrew Presley and senior Sang Yi, the LSU men’s team rolled to an 14-stroke victory Tuesday at the Louisiana Classics.
Title sponsor-turned-con man faces prison
R. Allen Stanford, the former Texas financier whose golf sponsorships included tournaments and players on the PGA and LPGA tours, was convicted Tuesday in U.S. District Court of bilking investors of $7 billion in a massive Ponzi scheme.
Toy Box: McIlroy wins with Titleist gear
Rory McIlroy credited his short game for clinching his victory at the Honda Classic. He relied upon his Titleist Vokey Design SM4 wedges (46, 54 and 60 degree) to convert 20 of 24 up-and-down-opportunities.
Maginnes On Tap: Guess who’s back?
After closing with a final-round 62 at the Honda Classic, Tiger Woods clearly is on his way to making a comeback. His commitments to play at Doral & Bay Hill prove that the spring is shaping up nicely.
Mitsubishi introduces Kuro Kage on Tour
Mitsubishi Rayon introduced the Kuro Kage at the Northern Trust Open to join the Fubuki K as shafts used on the PGA Tour.
Rookie Loar's journey finally comes full circle
Ed Loar's golf journey has taken him all around the world. Jim McCabe has the amazing story of the PGA Tour rookie and recent Nationwide Tour winner.
This week in the world of golf . . .
The week ahead in the world of golf includes the WGC Cadillac Championship, which Tiger Woods won six times, and the PGA Tour's Puerto Rico Open.
Monday, March 5
Brewer is perfect fit for Callaway CEO
says Callaway hired the right man for the job when it selected Chip Brewer for CEO.
Woods commits to Arnold Palmer Invitational
Tiger Woods announced on his website Monday that he has committed to play the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club in Orlando, Fla. It will be his third consecutive PGA Tour event in March.
Callaway hires Adams' Brewer as CEO
Hoping to regain its leadership position in the equipment marketplace, Callaway Golf Co. announced Feb. 27 the appointment of Chip Brewer as president and chief executive officer.
Decker (No. 37, 2013) commits to Vanderbilt
Michael Decker has verbally committed to play college golf at Vanderbilt. Decker, of Pebble Beach, Calif., almost made unofficial visits to Stanford, UCLA, USC, Georgia Tech, Texas, Wake Forest, Duke and Arizona State.
Carter honored as Superintendent of the Year
Paul Carter, who has overseen a transformation at The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay in Harrison, Tenn., received the 2011 TurfNet Superintendent of the Year Award on March 1 at the Golf Industry Show.
Honda TV coverage hints at the future
With simultaneous weekend coverage of the Honda Classic, golf fans finally got a taste of the Golf Channel-NBC combination - which led to several observations. Martin Kaufmann
Player of the week: Julien Brun, TCU
The Horned Frogs freshman won medalist honors at the John Hayt Invitational, shooting 68-71-72 to finish at 5-under 211, one shot ahead of teammate Johan de Beer, in leading TCU to a tie for fifth place as a team.
Player of the week: Alex Stewart, Colorado
The Buffaloes sophomore shot a final-round 67 to jump from fifth place to first in the final round of the Allstate Sugar Bowl Intercollegiate.
Team of the week: Arkansas
The Razorbacks captured the John Hayt Invitational with a final-round-best, 7-under 281 on Feb. 28, giving them an 8-over 872 total over 54 holes and a four-shot victory over Central Florida at Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.
Team of the week: Duke
The Blue Devils ended a winless streak that was nearing two years, winning the Allstate Sugar Bowl Intercollegiate on Feb. 28 for their first team title since the 2010 Liz Murphey Collegiate Classic.
Tide women capture Darius Rucker title
Led by a 1-2 individual finish from Stephanie Meadow and Brooke Pancake, second-ranked Alabama rolled to an 11-stroke victory March 4 at the inaugural Darius Rucker Intercollegiate on Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Sunday, March 4
Tracker: Tiger fires final-round 62 to finish T-2
Tiger Tracker: 'To me, it was the old Tiger back.' That pretty much sums up how Tiger Woods played Sunday, carding an 8-under 62 to give the new World No. 1 Rory McIlroy all he could handle. Shot-by-shot
Edward Loar wins Panama Championship
Edward Loar won the Panama Championship on Sunday for first Nationwide Tour title, holing a 6-foot par putt on the final hole for a 4-over 74 and a one-stroke victory over four players.
5 Things: Rory's dream, Tiger's resurgence
5 Things: Rory McIlroy realizes his lifelong dream, Tiger Woods shows off the Tiger of old and Tom Gillis has a career week at the Honda Classic.
McIlroy holds off Tiger, goes to No. 1
Rory McIlroy held off Tiger Woods and the rest of the field to win the Honda Classic and grab claim to the world's No. 1 ranking.
Tait: It was a matter of time for McIlroy
Alistair Tait: There wasn't a silver spoon in his mouth at birth. He has had plenty of humbling moments. But, there is no mistaking it: Rory McIlroy deserves that World No. 1 ranking.
Tait: Dougherty's fall a lesson for all
Nick Dougherty’s dramatic fall from the top of the amateur world to the Challenge Tour is a salient lesson to all those who think success leads to more success.
Saturday, March 3
Notes: Tour players prep for annual Pro-Member
Sure the final round of the Honda Classic will be an exciting round of golf, but it's what pros like Rickie Fowler will do the next day that's truly one of a kind. Jim McCabe
Change in ranking wouldn't change McIlroy
A victory by Rory McIlroy in the Honda Classic would change the order atop the Official World Golf Ranking. It wouldn’t change much for McIlroy, though. He has been dealing for years with all that comes with being a world-class player.
McIlroy leads Honda; No. 1 ranking rides on title
Rory McIlroy has another shot at moving to the top of the World Golf Ranking, but he'll have to hold on to his Honda Classic lead on Sunday to do it.
Tiger Tracker: Woods posts 69 at Honda
After three birdies on the front nine at PGA National, Tiger Woods cooled Saturday afternoon at the Honda Classic to post 1-under 69. Golfweek followed Woods' third round live.
Live scores: Round 4 at the Honda Classic
Follow Round 4 at the Honda Classic live
Friday, March 2
Rose, Gillis lead Honda; Harman shoots 61
Tom Gillis shares the lead at the Honda Classic with Justin Rose, but Brian Harman was the story of the day, scaring 59 on the way to breaking the course record at PGA National.
5 Things: GB&I Curtis Cup mistakes
The Ladies' Golf Union has made strange decisions, and the Charley Hull saga is just the latest example.
Notes: McDowell, Overton make big moves
Honda notebook: Graeme McDowell fires a 6-under 64 to climb into contention, while Jeff Overton also makes a surge up the leaderboard on Friday in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
Honda: Harman breaks through with record 61
Brian Harman decided to play the way he knows how to: With fire and emotion. And it paid off on Friday at PGA National, as the former Georgia star broke the course record with a 9-under 61.
Renovation of Stevens Park is done right
The renovation of Stevens Park in Dallas is a case study in how to do things thoughtfully, efficiently and modestly.
Tiger Tracker: Tiger fires 68 in 2nd round
Tiger Woods finished strong on Friday, picking up birdies on his final two holes to fire a 2-under 68 and move back into contention. Will Davis Love III and Rory McIlroy be able to handle the wind this afternoon?Follow live!
Notebook: Duke rights the ship with Allstate win
All seems right in the college golf world now that Duke's 21-tournament winless streak is over. Can the Blue Devils' success continue? Julie Williams
Ugadale Hotel reopens at Machrihanish
Machrihanish Golf Club is still difficult to reach, but a big step recently was made to solve the accommodations problem. Southworth Development last week opened the renovated Ugadale Hotel.
Live scores: Round 2 at the Honda Classic
Follow Round 2 at the Honda Classic with our live leaderboard!
Thursday, March 1
Ryder Cup captain Love grabs lead at Honda
Davis Love III looked more like a player than a Ryder Cup captain Thursday at the Honda Classic.
In Miami, 36 holes of muni magic
While the Miami area is well known for its luxury golf resorts, the region also has become a bustling scene for public golf, as evidenced by two of the area’s finest municipal tracks: Crandon Golf Course Key Biscayne and Miami Beach Golf Club.
Q&A: Brian Roberts, Comcast chairman and CEO
Roberts, 52, heads a Fortune 100 media and entertainment company whose interests include Golf Channel, hockey’s Philadelphia Flyers and NBCUniversal. The self-described “frustrated mid-to-high single-digit-handicapper” is the son of Comcast founder Ralph Roberts.
Tracker: Tiger shoots 71, trails by seven
Tiger Woods had his good and bad moments at PGA National on Thursday, and will have plenty of work to do if he hopes to catch leader Davis Love III and those right behind him, including Rory McIlroy. Shot-by-shot
Notes: Pride's journey to Honda Classic
After earning an exemption into the Honda Classic, Dicky Pride blazes into the tournament, trailing the leader by just two strokes after the first round. Jim McCabe
McCabe: Wilson embraces under-the-radar status
Mark Wilson can walk in to restaurants throughout the country without stopping to sign autographs or talk about PGA Tour life. And that's just fine with him. Jim McCabe
Young stars Bradley, McIlroy start fast at Honda
The budding friendship between Keegan Bradley and Rory McIlroy, seen when the two played together in Thursday's round of the Honda Classic, was overshadowed by their skill, as McIlroy shot 66 and Bradley 67.
Poulter out sick at Honda Classic in Florida
Ian Poulter has withdrawn from the Honda Classic with an illness. That puts a rookie from Argentina in the spotlight on Thursday afternoon.
Live scores! Round 1 at the Honda Classic
Follow Round 1 with our scoreboard, including Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods and Lee Westwood.
