Average Golfer Returns

After a ten year hiatus Average Golfer returns to the interwebs. As expected, a lot has happened in between. The hope is to continue to accurately and still irreverently continue the stinging wit and commentary for what's left of you have come to enjoy. I guess my last post regarding Tiger Woods from 10 years ago doesn't still hold water. 

Regards, 

AG

Tiger Woods Now Just a Very Good Pro Golfer.

 Hey, it happens to everyone. Think of your best achievement, sports related or not. Whether you had a 240 bowling average or sold more nuts and bolts than the rest of your co-workers, how long did your streak last? Ten years? Thirteen? Didn't think so. There goes Tiger Woods, major-less since 2008, in disguise on weekends in important tournaments and not the imposing assassin we'd come to expect. Woods' nasty 76 today left him in a T38 slot at The Barclays, the first event in the FedUp Cup playoffs. Not a major, but since he blanked in the majors this year, you can be assured Woods would have loved to dip his hand into the annual money grab. Why you ask, I answer...

1. He's 36. Athletes don't perform at 36 they way they did at 26, period. Sure, an occasional aberration occurs, ala Nicklaus' 86 Masters, but by and large no.

2. Long injury history. Multiple knee procedures don't go away. Even if you're not in immediate pain, the effects of multiple surgeries affect how you perform. See NFL.

3. He's playing swing, not golf. I have no idea if Sean Foley is a great golf instructor other than to observe his work. His most famous pupil ain't getting it done. Dead left pulls, Balloon right misses and especially approach shots with short clubs are woefully inadequate. Throw in some rather pedestrian putting and there you are.

4. No more legendary short game. It wasn't that long ago when Woods was in a green side bunker or chipping you were surprised when he didn't make it. Lifestyle changes can affect the amount of time you spend on these parts of the game. Anyone married? I don't know that's the case, but his short game looks like it.

5. Mental aspect. Woods was always so single minded that his opponents always knew he was more talented and had out-prepared them. Deadly combo. That's not the case any longer. Public train wrecks like his take their toll. Just a fact.

So, there you go. Expect Woods to win tournaments, he's won three this year. Don't expect the domination seen before 2009.








Swing hard, they'll make more.

2012 US Open - Odds and Expert Picks

So far no one from the Federal Trade Commission has called me out on my self proclaimed expert status, so let's keep goin' with this year's US Open Championship at The Olympic Club, San Francisco, CA. Fitting I suppose, being an Olympic year and all. It'll play at par 70, 7073 yds., with a 670 yd. par 5 squeezed in somehow. Tree-lined fairways and tiny, well protected greens are the hallmark. Shoulder deep rough means you don't have to be long here, but you def gotta be strong. So, pick a straight hitting body builder with a magician's touch on the car hood greens. Ladbrokes will help with the odds, we'll tell you where to blow, invest your dough. Proceed....

Tiger Woods, 8/1 - Who else?Y'all know the drill. Of course he can win. Rounding into form. Driver tells the story with toothpick fairways. Hits the stinger, should win.

Lee Westwood, 12/1 - There's a reason he hasn't won a major. Ain't got the stones. Save your money.

Luke Donald, 12/1 - Missing some strength needed here, but can putt lights out. Possible, not likely.

Rory McIlroy, 16/1 - Defends. 5 tool guy. Can win.

Phil Mickelson, 20/1 - I don't see it with his wildness, but he's Phil. 1st two hyper competitive days with Piano Teeth will help. Can win.

Dustin Johnson, 25/1 - Fine as long as you don't have to think yourself around the course. Not here.

Matt Kuchar, 25/1 - Like him a ton. Long enough, straight enough. Putts like a banshee. (Banshees putt?).

Justin Rose, 25/1 - Gee, tough one. Everything says he can. Still, unknown lingering doubt. Goin' with no.

Jason Dufner, 25/1 - Player of the Year if it ended now. Take him at these odds.

 Rickie Fowler, 33/1 - If he's on, yes. If not, no. I know that sounds obvious, but Fowler has a ton of moving parts. Timing is crucial in his swing. We'll see.

Adam Scott, 40/1 - Tee to green, right up there. Broomstick is the problem. My great friend Chris Romeo is taking him, so I can't.

Steve Stricker, 40/1 - Gift pick at these odds. Game is tailor made for this course. Very possible.

Sergio Garcia, 40/1 - Nope. Serious head case. Needs help. May be there on Friday, not after.

Hunter Mahan, 40/1 - Resting on his laurels from earlier in the season. Possible, doubt it.

Jim Furyk, 40/1 - Hmm... Not sure. Has game suited for this track. Good for a flier.

Zach Johnson,40/1 - Can't count him out. Huge competitor behind the perma-smile. Like him.


 The rest of the 156 man field is at 50/1+. There's some great picks in there including a number of major champions, ie Watson, Oosthuizen, Harrington, Els, Goosen (hmm...), Love III, Singh, Yang, Immelman, Kaymer, Schwartzel, Campbell. Unfortunately, here at Average Golfer, typing isn't our strong suit, so we had to stop somewhere. However, our staff on crack, crack staff delivers when it counts with the top three finishers at the 2012 US Open Championship. As usual, gratis...


1. Matt Kuchar
2. Tiger Woods
3. Zach Johnson

Dark Horse

Carl Pettersson

In the rare circumstance that you should incur fiduciary losses based on our picks, you're strongly encouraged to contact our Customer Service Department. They are open for calls between the hours of 11:19 AM and 11:21 AM, EST, M-F. Closed on Arbor Day.

Bet early and often.

2012 Memorial Golf Tournament - Odds and Expert Picks

It's Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, OH, Jack's place, time for the annual Jack-fest.  All the legends have their own tourney. Byron, Arnie, and of course Jack, greatest of all time. Jack's is played on a spectacular layout with the reputation for being perfectly groomed. Well, at least as soon as Jack ditched the furrowed bunkers. It's also considered a US Open prep, so many of the world's best are here, part out of respect for Jack and part to get ready for the year's second major championship.

We're here to help you make some money. Average Golfer is always more than willing to assist in the difficult business of golf handicapping. Thank us later. Time for bidness. As usual our British bookie buddies, Ladbrokes, supply the odds. We supply the brain power.* Without further ado....

Luke Donald 9:1 - Deserved off a win in Europe and #1 ranking. Can't leave him out. Could win. Lack of length may hurt him here.

Tiger Woods 12:1 - Attracts money regardless of his play. Don't see it. Could win of course, but balky putter, Captain Kirk tee shots are deadly here. Won't win.

Rory McIlroy 12:1 - In a recent funk missing consecutive cuts. Smooth swing, buts a few too many moving parts. Not this week.

Phil Mickelson 14:1 - Lefty's a threat to win whenever he tees it up. A few errant shots won't bother him. He's been recovering for 20+ years. Could win.

Justin Rose 16:1 - Like him a lot at these odds. Very well could win. Straight and long. Never a bad combo.

Rickie Fowler 16:1 - Hot golfer. Relies on timing too much for my taste, but lately his timing's been superb. Possible.

Bubba Watson 25:1 - Long odds for the Masters champ, but coming off  a month long hiatus. Odds are where they should be. Long shot.

Jim Furyk 25:1 - Nice course for him. Straight as a Mormon. Jim could win if putter cooperates. Could be said of a lot of guys.

Steve Stricker 25:1 - My pick at these odds. Strick has all the tools for this course. Steady and straight and a fantastic putter spells a win. Can win here, did it last year.

Adam Scott 25 :1 - Plays above his head many think the broomstick did it, but his putting stats are still in the bottom half. Possible, not likely.

Jason Day 33:1 - Not toDay for the Aussie.

Webb Simpson 33:1 - Long numbers for a great player. Worth a chase in my book.

Bo Van Pelt 33:1 - Best unknown player out there. I could see Bo in some Sunday shootout scenario.

Charl Schwartzel 40:1 - Great value pick. Major champ. Must be a South African deal why he's so low. Could win.

Ernie Els 40:1 - See Charl Schwartzel.

Hunter Mahan 40:1 - Not much love for a multiple winner this year. Another excellent value pick. Could win.

Other great value picks.... Keegan Bradley, 40:1, Nick Watney, 50:1, Ben Curtis, 50:1, and Ryan Moore, 50:1.

Average Golfer's 2012 Memorial Tournament Picks

1. Steve Stricker

2. Justin Rose

3. Phil Mickelson

There you have 'em, gratis. Now go make some money.

*Picking winners of golf tournaments has to be the single most difficult task in the sporting world. If you're betting with the grocery money, your car payment, or an engagement ring, you're an idiot. Average Golfer accepts no responsibility, expressed or implied, for you being a moron. That said, bet early and often.

Tiger Woods Hangs Snap Hooks on Haney

I can snap hook a golf ball. In fact it's my preferred miss. Hooks go faster than huge balloon balls, so they're manlier. Harder to find, but manlier. Tiger Woods snapped off a couple of beauts on the 1st two holes of his Masters Toonamint today. Nice par recoveries kept him at level par, but the hooks stayed in his bag to resurface throughout the round. The 18th was such a happening, but Woods managed to scrape out a rather nice bogey to finish at level par for the day. He's in a huge pack following leader Lee Westwood's slick 67.

When ESPN's Tom Rinaldi was interviewing Woods after his round, Woods attributed his case of the smothers to "The Hank backswing with the new downswing". Gee, one would have thought that with his prodigious talent and 30+ years of experience, Mr. Woods would have been capable of separating the two. Or, the comment was a stab at Haney's recent book that details some unseemly aspects of Woods personality and expertly details how to make a Haney backswing. You decide.

Swing hard, you could get hit by a bus on the way home.

Caution - Snail Pairing at 2012 Masters

Normally the Greenjackets have everything worked out in the coordination of their yearly golf-fest, the Masters. Thursday's opening round pairing though features Kevin Na, Ben Crane, and Fredrick Jacobson. This threesome tees off at 12:14 PM. Expect darkness at about 7:15 PM. Then send a search party because Na and Crane are as slow as it gets on Tour. Well, with the exception of Jason "All" Day. Why these geniuses at Augusta didn't just include him in the trio is beyond me. They could have gone out last and played nine. Poor Fredrick may need an alarm clock. He can stuff a book in his bag as long as it isn't a golf instructional. He could bring Haney's new book and just read the gossipy parts.

Swing hard, you'll find another.

2012 Masters - Odds and Expert Picks

Gee, are we back already? Seems like just yesterday when I screwed up picking the winner of a major golf tournament. Golf is tough to pick, that's my excuse. Regardless, with the help of Ladbrokes, the venerable British betting house, we'll attempt to decipher the undecipherable, the 2012 Masters Toonamint. So, blow the cobwebs out of your wallet and follow Average Golfer into tall cotton...

Who Can't Win

This is the easy part. The Masters is really a glorified club event with some world class players and some past champions, who can play for almost life, some amateurs, and some winners of a local 9 hole muni's club championship. That's why I've always said that the Masters is fantastic spectacle, but not much of a Toonamint when you consider strength of field. At any rate Ben Crenshaw, 5000/1, can't win. Nor can the following 2000/1 takers of space... Woosnam, Lyle, Randal Lewis, (sorry Mr. and Mrs. Lewis), and Craig Stadler. At 1500/1 Corbin Mills has a snowball's chance. Mark O'Meara, Kelly Kraft, (Double K in golf circles), and Bryden MacPherson have no shot at 1000/1. At least Gary Player hung up the spikes so I can't continue to torture him for robbing the spot of a deserving player.

Who Should Win

Winning at ANGC, (That's Augusta National Golf Club for insiders), is all about course familiarity and experience. Hence, Fuzzy Zoeller is the only rookie winner since electricity. In truth, ANGC is about flowers, bridges, ponds dyed blue, and rich white dudes. That said, Eldrick, (his buddies call him Tiger), Woods is going off at 9/2. Woods dilemna will be the flat stick. He makes putts, he wins, case closed. He's striking the ball like the Eldrick of old and knows the place like he knows Nike headquarters. Nipping at his heels would be Rory McIlroy, 6/1. Young Rory's moment of truth may well be the ghosts of Masters' past, namely last year. His US Open win would suggest he's conquered his demons, but until he hits his 10th hole tee shot on Sunday, we won't know. 3rd in the favorite's triumverate would be Mr. Phil Mickelson at 12/1. Course knowledge, check. Past winner(s), check. Loves the place, check. Phil's a crap shoot. If he's on he probably wins. If he's not, he don't.

Who Wins If The Favorites Collapse?

Best of the rest? Here's where there's money to be made. Nobody bought a yacht at 9/2. Luke Donald, 16/1. Sure he could, but Augusta's a tad long for the Brit. Lee Westwood, 20/1. Possible. Good odds on a great player. Hunter Mahan, 25/1. Nice pick on the hottest player on Tour. Adam Scott, 33/1. Gee, I hope not. I liked Scott til' he started putting with a divining rod. Keegan Bradley, 33/1. Nice player. Probably doesn't have the savvy this time. Take him in 2015. Justin Rose, 33/1. Great pick at these odds. Peaking. Jason Day, 40/1. Limited field means Jason may finish toDay. Won't win. Matt Kuchar, 40/1. Seems like too nice a guy to win down the stretch here. Like him in the John Deere Classic though! Charl Schwartzel, 40/1. Not much love for the defending champ. I'd take him in a sec at these odds.

There's plenty of picks left at 50/1+ To name a few.... Watney, D. Johnson, Garcia, Bubba Watson, (no relation to Tom), Stricker, Kaymer, McDowell, Choi, Haas, Snedeker, ad nauseum.

Average Golfer's Masters Picks

1. Eldrick "Tiger" Woods

2. Justin Rose

3. Hunter Mahan

Long Shot - Angel Cabrera

Sentimental Pick - Tom Watson

There you have em'. Guaranteed money makers.

Swing hard, they make em' while you sleep.





Tiger Woods Dialed In For Another Green Jacket?

Before two of his previous Masters victories Tiger Woods won the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. Today he set himself up to do it again with a five stroke win over Graeme McDowell that broke his 924 day winless drought. Tiger might count his Chevron triumph, but having fewer golfers than holes, we don't. That makes him the odds on favorite to capture his fifth green jacket.

What are his chances? Well, since you asked....

1. He loves the golf course.

2. He knows it like the back of his hand, which is crucial when it comes to the nuances of the greens and knowing where to leave to the ball, even more importantly, where not to.

3. He hits a stupendous high cut shot, necessary at Augusta to have approach shots stop on greens rolling at about 14 on the old Stimp.

4. He knows the putts. Knowing is one thing, making them is another. However, experience is key at Augusta and many players just haven't played enough rounds. There's a reason Fuzzy Zoeller's the only rookie winner in modern history.

5. His tee ball appears to have returned. Woods was 2nd in driving this week and leading the Tour for the year. Crucial at Augusta because where your approach is struck from is really the key to the course.

I consider Masters' weekend to be the start to the golf season, pro as well a mine. I think it's great spectacle with a weak field. Regardless, it's a great tip off to what I hope shapes up to be a fun season, whether I'm on the course or parked in front of the TV.

Swing real hard, they make tons of em'.

2012 Honda Classic - Odds and Expert Picks

Jack Nicklaus' winter digs, maiden appearance by E. Woods, throw in a McIlroy and a Westwood and we might have ourselves a golf tourney. PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, FL is the setting for The Honda Classic. All four 2011 major winners are joined by the aforementioned Mr. Woods, Keegan Bradley, and the defender, Rory Sabbatini.

We'll examine the front runners from Ladbrokes and help you earn some pocket cash from the comfort of your recliner. As you'll readily see, this is a chalk tourney. The talent level tanks after Keegan Bradley. Basically it's the top 5 or so and then the Nationwide Tour. Still, as betting opportunities go, there's great value with good potential pays, ie Ernie Els and/or JB Holmes at 66/1. Hey, it's your money!

Let's have a look...

Rory McIlroy - 7/1, Everyone's all but conceded the #1 in the world status to young Rory, which I believe he deserves more then Luke Donald. I think you need a major win under your belt to be #1. Of course he can win here. In fact I'm picking him due to extra motivation after last week's loss.

Tiger Woods - 10/1, You gotta be able to putt to win tournaments and right now Woods can't putt any better than my 9 yr. old nephew. Throw in the unfamiliar greens and watch Tiger use this as a Masters prep.

Lee Westwood - 10/1, Let McIlroy escape in the match play. Had his foot on his neck early. Not uncommon for Westwood to lose the reins for a few holes though. I see top 5 here, but I've picked Rory to win.

Charl Schwartzel - 20/1, Damn I hate typing his name. Doesn't exactly roll off the fingers. Can win I suppose. Has all the tools necessary. I see him 2nd.

Keegan Bradley - 25/1, Other than the pole putter I like this kid. He stepped right into the big-time game and validated his major. Sure, he could win here, but I picked Rory.

Ben Crane - 25/1, I hope he's in the final group or we'll have a Tuesday finish. Seems like a nice guy, but I change the channel when he's on. I can get a movie in while he putts. Won't win.

Justin Rose - 33/1, Potential sleeper. Hasn't done much lately, but too good to stay down for too long. Lives in Florida, could win, probably won't.

Graeme McDowell - 33/1, US Open win starting to look flukish. I like the guy and hopes he rallies. I'm no expert, but his golf swing appears to have morphed into a slash. Ahhh, won't win.

Kyle Stanley - 33/1, See what I meant about field strength? Nice player, good year so far, can't beat the top 5 here though.

Average Golfer Picks

1. McIlroy

2. Schwartzel

3. Westwood

There you have 'em......  Bet early and often.....

Mahan Takes Down McIlroy in Accenture World Match Play

35 birdies in 96 holes is pretty good golf. Certainly good enough today for Hunter Mahan to best Rory McIlroy 2 and 1 and capture his 2nd  WGC event, the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. His efforts landed him a cool $1.4 million along with the accompanying hardware. Mahan was 4 up through 10 holes after a stretch of taking 4 out of 5 on the front nine. McIlroy  applied some pressure on the back nine, but Mahan continued to answer with timely birdies. It was more than obvious that Mahan was the best player here this week. Mahan defeated Mark Wilson in the semis to reach the final match. Wilson was the only opponent Mahan had that wasn't a former Ryder or Presidents Cup member.

Mahan's win denied McIlroy the #1 spot in the OWGR. That I assume will be left for Luke Donald who packed his rental car here on Wednesday. There's no clear cut #1 in this writer's mind. I'd give it to McIlroy anyway since he defeated Lee Westwood, #3, in today's semi-final, and he has a major championship. Mark Wilson defeated Westwood in the "kiss-your-sister" match for 3rd place. In sum I've always thought you shouldn't be considered a world #1 without a major.

Average Golfer's been on a bit of a break of late. Expect some renewed interest as winter passes where we're located and I can see the sun for more than two hours a day. The Honda Classic is up next with a stronger field than one normally sees at this weak sister event. All 2011 major winners will be there along with Westwood and Woods. May be worth the effort.







Swing hard, they'll make more.

Tiger Woods Takes Chevron World Challenge - Is He Back?

Biggest question... Woods' game still in the woods?

Tiger Woods bested Zach Johnson with an 18th hole birdie, his second straight, to grab his own Chevron World Challenge title. He finished at -10, one clear of Johnson, who he battled all day in a tight back and forth match. No one else really contended, making this almost a match play scenario. Sunday was calm in contrast to the blasts of Santa Ana winds that colored the first three days. His final round 69 erased a one shot deficit to Johnson at the start of the round. Johnson therefore carded a 71 today. Woods' game is obviously improving. You can tell by his ball striking and trajectory. He's regained some of his legendary control of the ball, but still some questions remain....

1. Is a victory over just 17 other players an indication of Woods return to form? Probably not. With the tiny field I see it as just north of MJ winning a game of HORSE in his driveway. Still, a win's a win and no pro golfer needed one more than Woods.

2. Can he carry the improved shot making into 2012? Only one way to find out. Play the tournaments. It's no coincidence that Woods' improvement is directly related to his increase in playing.

3. Any chinks in the armor? Well of course. Loose shots here and there. 27 putts on Friday, 32 on Saturday. Not the sort of consistency a player of Woods' pedigree looks for, but miles better than his PGA Championship performance.

4. What else will factor in Woods' 2012? Health. Four knee surgeries can't be on anyone's wish list. The rigors of a full, by Woods' standards, season will be the arbiter. One factor he can't account for is age, both his increasing and his prime competition's decreasing.

5. Bottom line? No sane person can argue that Tiger's not in the top two of all time. He's playing better, his self-imposed off the course problems are naturally fading. I see him winning two to three tournaments a year on a schedule of about 18 entries. Figure a major victory thrown in the mix and he'll give Nicklaus' record of 18 a run for it's money. I wouldn't be shocked to see them tied when all is said and done. If you'd have asked me ten years ago, I'd have figured him for 25.

*Average Golfer aside.... How can they call it a "World Challenge" with only 18 players?







Swing hard, they'll make more.

Tiger Pulls Smoke and Mirrors Act at Chevron World Challenge (aka Sherwood 18 Open)

I know we're at the "end" of pro golf season. To be fair, the pro golf season never really ends. They crank the 2012 PGA season up again on January 6, 2012. It's omnipresent. This week's fare is the Chevron World Challenge at Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, CA. Still, Tiger's tourney raises a considerable amount of moolah that benefits his foundation and the Tiger Woods Learning Center, both good causes.

Eighteen players will tee it up on Thursday. That's right, eighteen. We have more on Sunday mornings at my muni for a $5.00 blind draw. These boys are divvying up $5 million. Gotta like like your odds if you scored an invite.  The field typically consists of the four current major champions, the next eleven in the Official World Golf Rankings, and sponsor picks. Evidently not everyone got the email. This year's field has Keegan Bradley as a major winner, Bill Haas, the FedUp Cup champion and a heavily American weighted field with 9 of the world's top 25. In the top ten are Steve Stricker (6), Webb Simpson (9), and Nick Watney (10). Woods himself dodged a bullet just to qualify for his own shindig. He crept into the top 50 at 49 at qualifying time, but has slipped to 52nd in the interim. At least he didn't have to use an exemption. Unfortunately, defending champ, Graeme McDowell is playing in the Nedbank Challenge in Sun City, South Africa along with stalwarts Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, and Martin Kaymer. In related news, someone has seen fit to give John Daly a spot in the USB Hong Kong Open. Bring extra balls.

How things change. Twas a time when everyone checked their mailboxes for a Woods' invite. I'm not sure if it's the global aspect of golf or Woods' declining influence that's turned his tourney into a buddy match. Probably some of both. I'll take a peek at the telly because I'm a golf nut. My trigger finger will be on the NFL though. If Woods intends to break his losing streak, this is his best opportunity in two years.





*Average Golfer aside.....  Quite a coup to have the results from the Sherwood 18 rack up World Ranking Points.




Swing hard, then swing harder.

Why The US Won The Presidents Cup.

Outside of the obvious, "We won more matches", "We scored more points",  there's one real forehead slapping reason the US squad won this year's and most year's Presidents Cup competitions. We have better players.

According to the Official World Golf Ranking points system as of 11/18/2011 the average ranking of the 12 US players was 18.5. The Internationals 34.6. The 19th ranked player in the world would typically beat the 35th ranked player over a series of matches.

So sorry Uncle Albert.

Ain't math great?







Go ahead, they'll make more.

2011 Presidents Cup - Post Mortem

Captain Couples, undefeated.

Final score 19-15 in favor of the US squad vs the Internationals in the 2011 Presidents Cup from Melbourne, AU. This was a bit closer in final day singles matches than it appears. Still, the Internationals were faced with an unprecedented task of coming from four points behind on the last day, considering no team has ever overcome a deficit in singles. Four early wins gave the Internationals some false hope. The back loaded US squad prevailed when Cup veterans Furyk, Toms, Woods, and Stricker sealed the deal. Not exactly compelling on the last day, but at least interesting.

Some observations gleaned by this Average Golfer's astute eye....

The Presidents Cup isn't the Ryder Cup by any stretch. Drawing from a global pool the Prez Cup participants don't have the team chemistry of a Euro Ryder team. Language barriers and infrequent contact contribute. History's on the Ryder side as well. The difference in intensity and seriousness is palpable.

Robert Allenby had a tough week. Coming off a missed cut in the previous week's Australian Open, Robert Allenby hoped to validate captain Norman's faith in him and his familiarity with Royal Melbourne by turning in a good performance. Didn't happen. 0-4-0 record made Norman's comments regarding the Tiger Woods captain's pick ring hollow. Allenby putted like he was drunk for two weeks.

Home field advantage wasn't there. Five Aussies made Norman's roster. RM was supposed to be their own private Idaho. Combined 7-14-3 record for the quintet dispelled that notion.

Royal Melbourne was on the edge. Yes. Bath tub slick greens, harder than 10th grade math, coupled with some howling wind, made certain holes ridiculously difficult to play. All in all in one of the most spectacular venues in the world. I just hate to see some of the world's best win or lose a hole in match play on what's essentially luck.

Tiger Woods made a statement here. Yes and no. Yes, his full swing appears to be rounding into form, proven by the return of the patented stinger. Yes, he made putts in the singles round to trounce Aaron Baddeley. No, his 2-3-0 record for the tourney didn't win it for the US.

Jim Furyk was MVP. 5-0-0. Nuff' said. Furyk's missing putting stroke magically reappeared and he became just the 4th player in Cup history to win five matches.

No substitute for experience. Example, Mickelson 3-1-0, Mahan 4-1-0. Having been there means a lot. Much was made of International rookies KT Kim and Ryo Ishikawa having breakout tourneys. Fact is they were a combined 4-4-0. Not embarrassing, but .500 doesn't win Cups.

Jason Day had a tough week too. It sure seemed like he was nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs. The wind wreaked havoc with his high ball flight and sent him all over the property. Day's a better player than he showed, but better learn to hit the ball lower when needed.

Norman's suggestions worth a look. In a post-round interview Greg Norman suggested that in the interest of a more competitive tournament the captains should be allowed four picks with eight qualifiers. Makes some sense given the vast pool the International team has to draw from. He also postulated that the home team have the ability to counter with their picks in the pairings rather than the defending team as it is now. Again, worth consideration. Seemingly small changes might have some impact. As it's been, this Cup is a mismatch every two years.

To sum, interesting, not history making. Face it, between the Ryder and the Prez Cup the US squad plays in one of these every year. We should win. I was about to suggest a biennial US v. The World event until I remembered the tarring we took in the last Ryder.

*Swing extra hard, they'll make more.

Mid-Way Through 2011 Presidents Cup - If It Was a Fight, They'd Stop It.

The US squad routed the Internationals in Saturday, (Friday here), foursome matches by a 4 -1 margin to take a commanding 11 - 6 overall lead in the 2011 Presidents Cup, held at Royal Melbourne, Melbourne, AU. Despite having five Aussies on their team and home course advantage, the Intl's are being thoroughly outclassed by an obviously more talented US team.   Even if the US only wins just two of the afternoon fourball contests, they'd only need 4 1/2 points out of twelve possible in the Sunday singles. Based on OWGR and money lists the Internationals were in over their heads before the first ball was in the air. The team matches were their hope since the US typically dominates singles.

The Watson/Simpson and Mickelson/Furyk pairings have decimated the opposition and remained undefeated after the morning rounds. So complete is the rout that even Tiger won his match with Dustin Johnson as sidekick. It may prove to be an announcer's nightmare to try to maintain viewer interest in such a lopsided affair.

Conditions at Royal Melbourne are 180 deg. from yesterday. Overnight and continual rain, coupled with dropping temperatures has reformed the scorched earth appearance from yesterday. Balls are actually holding on approach shots and putts, for the most part, seem to be staying on the greens.

Perhaps these biennial contests should evolve into a US against The World setup. One could argue against based on last year's Ryder Cup result, and that's a point well taken. Still, this permutation hasn't been very compelling from a competition standpoint. Nevertheless, Royal Melbourne has been a delight and proof that golf courses don't have to be 8,000 yards to challenge the world's best.

*Keep watching, something might happen.

Woods/Scott Pairing Highlights 1st Day of Presidents Cup

No problems here.

Get it out of the way. Tiger Woods and Steve Stricker will face Adam Scott and KJ Choi in the first round of foursomes matches in the 2011 Presidents Cup. Much ado about nothing this Average Golfer says as the firestorm created by caddy Williams' comments last week have largely died out, save perhaps for the Brit and Aussie tabloid rags. Let's examine the pairings on their own merit...

Woods/Stricker v Scott/Choi - Hard to argue with the US combo's success in the past. Should be a US win.

Watson/Simpson v Ishikawa/Els - Interesting International squad pairing of young and old. Els may be the determining factor with his experience. Watson the birdie maker here. Should be close, Pick - Draw.

Haas/Watney v Ogilvy/Schwartzel - Watney's tough as nails, but so are both International players. Rookie Simpson should decide. International win.

D. Johnson/Kuchar v Baddeley/Day - Go with the hottest sticks, which would be the International squad.

Mickelson/Furyk v Goosen/Allenby - Allenby forgot how to putt and Goosen's not having a career year. Phil's not a great team player and Furyk hasn't been his best. US win, but close.

Mahan/Toms v KT Kim/YE Yang - Toss up in my opinion. Mahan might be the difference. He's probably the best player here. Kim could surprise. Internationals in a mild upset.

By my reckoning Day 1 should end Internationals 3.5 - US 2.5.

*Bet early and often.

2011 Presidents Cup - Odds and Expert Picks



Psychological duel or match fixing? You make the call.



The biennial contest is upon us. Commonly regarded as the weak sister of the Ryder Cup, this Presidents Cup, held at venerable Royal Melburne, (pronounced Mel-buhn) promises to be  a spirited competition, with a little more emphasis on competition as opposed to the exhibition it's been in the past. That's perhaps because International captain Greg Norman is known for his fiery spirit. The fact that this is the venue the Internationals last prevailed on, as well as being Norman's home course, as well as his being the losing captain two years ago, makes this personal. Norman and US captain Fred Couples have sparred in the media during the run up on subjects including the saneness of each other captain's picks for their respective squads. Throw in the verbal gaffe by ex-Woods caddy Steve Williams and we should at least have a little passion displayed over the week. 

Ladbrokes' betting house lists the odds for both teams at even money for a win, with a 10/1 pay for a tie. Here's the odds of some top players on landing the top scorer spot.....

US TEAM

Tiger Woods - 6/1
Nick Watney 8/1
Webb Simpson - 8/1
Phil Mickelson - 8/1
Dustin Johnson - 8/1
Matt Kuchar - 9/1
Steve Stricker - 9/1


INTERNATIONAL TEAM

Jason Day - 5/1
Adam Scott - 6/1
Geoff Ogilvy - 7/1
Charl Schwartzel - 7/1
KJ Choi - 8/1



This Average Golfer expects a close match to be decided by Sunday singles matches. The pairings will tell all, but unfortunately in hindsight that the best captain's choices are revealed. Expect a Woods/Stricker, Mickelson/Watney show for the US. Players for Captain Couples to hide might include Simpson, due to lack of experience, or David Toms and Jim Furyk since neither are having career years.

On the International side look for Aussie pairings. Some combination of Day, Scott, Ogilvy, Baddeley, or Allenby. Allenby will need the boost coming off poor play at last weeks Australian Open. Captain Norman may try to hide Retief Goosen or Ernie Els based on recent play. Korean KT Kim will be an unknown. Expect him paired with countryman KJ Choi. If Choi's hot, like he can be, this could be a crucial duo.

As close as I think this event will be, I predict an International victory, largely due to the large Aussie contingent making for a strong home course advantage. I see a 17 1/2 - 16 1/2 winning margin.




THE PRESIDENTS CUP BROADCAST TIMES


DOMESTIC US NETWORKS (all times ET)

Wednesday, November 16 9 p.m.-2 a.m. (GOLF / live coverage)

Thursday, November 17 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (GOLF / tape-delayed)

7:30 p.m.-2 a.m. (GOLF / live coverage)

Friday, November 18 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (GOLF / tape-delayed)

3 p.m.-2 a.m. (GOLF / live coverage)

Saturday, November 19 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (NBC / tape-delayed)

6:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. (GOLF / live coverage)

Sunday, November 20 12-6 p.m. (NBC / tape-delayed)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Remember, bet early and often.

Tiger Woods Pours Water on Williams Fire At Australian Open Presser

In his press conference before the beginning of the Australian Open Tiger Woods said he'd recently met in person with ex-caddy Steve Williams, whose fresh, racially tinged comments had taken over golf coverage of late. Woods referenced the comments as "hurtful", but clearly stated that he felt Williams was "no racist".  That alone should finally put to rest, or at least return commentary back to golf action. If Woods was angry he hid it well, although usually there's not much deep insight to be gleaned from a Woods question and answer session. Still, this Average Golfer thought he was sincere and I'd expect no fireworks in the small chance that Woods and Adam Scott find themselves in the same group this week.

Of more interest may be the inclusion of upcoming President's Cup captains Fred Couples and Greg Norman. Norman of late has been particularly loquacious with comments of the wisdom of Couples picking Woods for the US squad and his opinions on the Steve Williams mess. I'd have to give Couples the nod this week though in a head to head match on the golf course.

I've been quick to criticize Woods in the past when I felt he deserved it, but I'll be equally quick to say I think he took the high road, whatever his motivations, in the Williams matter and helped bring focus back to the tournament.

Swing extra hard, they'll make more.

Golf and NBA Seasons Over.

This past weekend golf made it's unofficial exit from it's so-called season with the final event at the Disney-plex. Luke Donald captured it with a stirring Sunday 64. One would have thought that the win had locked up Player of the Year honors for Donald, but not so freakin' fast. The PGA Tour has decided to postpone POY balloting until after the WGC-HSBC Champions tourney, Nov. 3-6, in Shanghai, China. The prize money won't count as official money, but a win will count as a win. Makes Mr. Donald wonder what a guy has to do to win an award. FedUp Cup, Fall Finish, China this or that, let's just keep playing until the guy we want wins. We're not crying for Luke. He's done rather well for himself. It's the governing bodies that are blowing the legitimacy of their "organizations" out their tailpipes. Regardless, with the World Series and NFL action only wives, girlfriends and families were tuning in.

The golf nuts probably caught what they thought was a faux pas in the title pronouncing golf season over. The PGA Tour website lists the CIMB Asia Pacific Classic Malaysia, the aforementioned WGC-HSBC, and the President's Cup as left on the schedule. What, no Shark Shootout, or Tiger's Limited Field Event That Nobody  Wants To Play Anymore? With the exception of some minor rooting interest in the Prez Cup I'll see you in January in Maui. Pro golf never really ends anymore if you like to fly.

One death notice that's not premature is the NBA season. At least I hope that's the case. I can't think of a more inane professional sport that's lost it's appeal with the public. I used to be an avid NBA fan. Never on top of my list, but always in contention. A meaningless regular season where all but Scooter Store devotees make the playoffs did it for me. Basketball in June doesn't settle well with this Average Golfer. The trashing of the traveling rule to accommodate His Airness didn't help, nor did the doing away of what used to be called "palming the ball". Yeah, sure, I'm dating myself, but those fundamental changes altered the game into a contest of run and dunk. If you're a 6'10' Usain Bolt you've mastered the sport. I favor keeping 10' rims, but making the court larger. Kinda like Canadian football.  On the money issue I side with the players. If some moron owner is willing to pay a player ten times what they're worth, should they be expected take less? The owners are grabbing back control and the only recourse the players have is to withhold their services. Y'all come back in 2012 or 13 with a new found appreciation for each other and a bigger court. I still won't watch.







Swing hard, they'll make more.

10 Average Golfer MUSTS.

I reckon I'm the definition of an average golfer. I'm as capable of shooting 102 as 80. I've never broken 80, although I have a number of 81s to my credit. The average player shoots around 100. Whether they'd admit to that or not is a subject for another article. I will submit to you though, scores notwithstanding, that I've played enough rounds to have at least figured out what the necessary ingredients are to banish those 100s forever and find your way on the fast track to a single digit handicap. I subscribe to the theory that "Those who can, do. Those who can't, educate." Here's ten good ones that I've gleaned...

1. Develop a better short game. - Fact, most strokes in any golfer's scores occur within 100 yards of the flag. Most of those are around the green. Become a better chipper, pitcher, and putter and watch your score melt. This is the fastest way to better scoring and requires little physical effort, which is why it's my #1.

2. Fix your posture, set-up, and grip. - These are the only things you can do as well as Tiger Woods, or Rory McIlroy, or whoever your golf idol may be. Quit thinking about 'em and start doing them better. At least then you'll look like a golfer until you start the club moving.

3. Get a pre-shot routine. - Why think when you don't have to? Develop and use use a routine until it's 2nd nature. That's one less thing to think about and you'll start your shot the same way every time. Drop your shorts, twirl three times, and cluck like a chicken. I don't care. It's better than what you're not doing now. Just don't make yours too slow and you won't find my Titleist between your legs when you're finally ready to pull the trigger.

4. Relax, relax, then relax some more. - Tension is the killer of 100-shooters' golf swings. The hinging and release necessary to smash a golf ball doesn't occur with stiff arms, wrists, and hands. A certain amount of tension is needed for consistency though. Think somewhere between 2 beers and a full Valium.

5. Get your clubs fit for you. - If you play once every other month, skip to #6 and don't be in the foursome in front of mine. Otherwise, if you really want to get better, you need clubs that fit you and you only. Doubt me? Try a day in 32 underwear Mr. 38.

6. Hit down on the golf ball. - Yes, hitting down makes the ball go up. Counter-intuitive? Of course, so is getting married. I've seen too many 100-shooters scoop, lift, and skull golf balls all over the property. What I haven't seen see is any of them shoot 74.

7. Square the clubface at impact. - Crooked face at the moment of truth makes the ball go in any one of 359 other directions. Take mini practice swings and focus on having the face of the club pass through the ball at 90 degrees. That would be at a right angle, or toward your target, assuming you're aimed correctly, which may be a huge assumption. See #2 and add "Aim properly".

8. Finish your swing. - Hey, you started it, might as well finish it. Belt buckle or beer gut, or belly ring for the ladies, facing target. Weight on left foot, right on toe. Reverse for lefties Einstein. Keep in mind that if you can't finish properly you seriously messed up something that came before. If so, see #2 again.

9. Balance. - If you're not balanced you'll know it. Strive to maintain your balance from the time you get out of your car until you're safely back at home. Then you can revert back to your usual unbalanced self.

10. Manage the course. - This sounds complicated, but all it means is don't try to hit shots you know you ain't got. The 200 yard forced water carry isn't happening Cupcake, so get out the 9 iron. Buy a lotto ticket. Better odds.



If you noticed, I didn't attempt to instruct you on any of the golden precepts. That's because I'm not an instructor and these pearls are as much for my benefit as yours.  There's a crapload of golf instruction everywhere and plenty of qualified instructors just dying for your call. Find one.










Relax, they'll make more.