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.

How To Win Your Next Scramble

First let me qualify the following by admitting that winning a golf scramble is a crapshoot. Sandbagged handicaps are the main culprit and the subject of another article. Still, there a few things that can be done to increase your odds of taking home the trophy, most likely a beer logo-ed golf bag and a sleeve of RockFlites. I'm working under the Average Golfer's scramble scenario, meaning a team handicap at 36 to 40+. So, kill the TV and pay attention. I'm only going to say this once.

Putting Wins Scrambles. Most scramble teams get it around pretty good from tee to green. Most make their putts from inside 6 or so feet. The difference between a -8 and -12 final score is the seven to sixteen footers that the winners drain. Pros don't make half of these. Your team needs to make most of them. The 50 ft. snakes are pure luck, even with four whacks at it. Save that for the only skin, which is the only real money in a scramble anyway. Make sure your team has at least two very good putters and have them putt last, unless of course anyone putting ahead of them is so bad that you don't want their putt witnessed.

Take Short Game Over Long Game. Similar to putting  strategy in scrambles, short shots are mucho importanto. Even at 40+ your team should be on nearly every green in regulation or just off. An eagle chip-in shaves strokes in a hurry. In a word, just be sure every team member is adequate in the short game. Four decent chances from just off the green is all you want here.

Women And Seniors Welcome. A woman or a senior that can tattoo the ball from their respective tees is invaluable. Nuff' said. (If they can chip or putt make them the captain).

Yes, Having A Hitting Order Helps. Differing theories abound on this one. Does Dr. Pressure hit 1st to ease the vise? Should the best putter go 1st to show the line to the remaining three? Hard to say. The dynamics of four golfers with divergent personalities and styles is tough to pigeon hole. I would assume that all members of the group are well acquainted, friends even. Therefore, y'all are probably familiar with each other's tendencies and habits. My solution is to pick a captain and have him/her make all relevant decisions, i.e. hitting order. People like to know their roles in a group. Give 'em one.   

Get Those Mandatory Drives Out Of The Way. Sure his/her drive was 40 yards shorter than everyone else's, but, if you can advance it, play it. Nothing kills a good scramble score than having to use the 25 handicapper's drives on the last two holes. Exception, par fives, where length matters. 

The Tour's Not Calling. In my town one could play in a scramble of some type virtually every day of the week. Often it's the only tournament setting that the weekend warrior will find himself in. Resist the urge to take yourself or the event too seriously. I've got that part handled by remembering that the last scramble my team placed in I took home a new golf towel and got to see my name misspelled in the local paper. I limit my scramble tourneys to charities I favor or events that have been particularly fun in the past.

Now I realize I've just scratched the surface here. Please add your scramble tips and perhaps we'll have a definitive guide.....

Don't sweat it, they'll make more.

Larry the Cable Guy - Golfer

Who hasn't been in this predicament?  Now I don't care who you are, that's funny.

I think he's sporting the Boo Weekley Signature Collection.













Til' next,

Pat Perez Captures 1st PGA Win - Stricker Implodes

Formerly volcanic Pat Perez maintained long enough to win the Bob Hope Classic for his first PGA victory. His 3 foot eagle putt at the 18th hole sealed the win over charging John Merrick, who had moved in front for a bit on the back nine. Perez finished at -33 after a 3 under 69 today. Merrick's 2nd place finish was his best yet on tour. His final round was a 67 to end at -30. For the first time all week wind was a factor and coupled with tougher pin placements the assault on par was quelled somewhat.

Stricker, at 16th, was the highest ranked player in the event. He led after yesterday's 4th round and set the consecutive round PGA scoring record having gone 61-62 in rounds 3 and 4. Today he came apart like a fifty dollar suit. A triple bogey at 7 and a quad at 10 sealed his fate. He had gone OB on 10 and found the drink on both holes. He made the request for a new pencil at 11. His request was immediately granted. All this after birdieing the 6th hole and taking a three stroke lead over Perez. He finished in a tie for 3rd with Mike Weir at -28. Full field scores.

Perez won $918,000 for his efforts. Call me silly, but I'd have shaved some prize money further down the line to have the winner collect a cool $1,000,000. Seems like better marketing to allow the tournament to advertise a million dollar first prize.

FYI, the amateur team #107 took their portion of the event at -71. Sounds like some of the sandbagger tournaments I've played in.

And............Mr. Hope, Shanks for the memories.


Til' next,

Tiger Woods, Buick Part Company

Let's all be realistic for a cotton pickin' second. Does anyone really think that Tiger Woods has been driving a Buick for the last nine years? I'd bet his gardener, nanny, personal assistant, etc. may be driving them, but Tiger, no way. Too stodgy.

Susan Docherty, GM vice-president for Buick-Pontiac-GMC said in an email to dealers today, “It’s with great emotion that I wish to inform you that the time has come for our long term relationship with Tiger Woods to end.” On his end Woods issued the following statement, “I am very proud of the long-standing partnership I’ve had with GM and have enjoyed being a part of the company’s dramatic product evolution.’’ In other words, thanks for the memories.

Woods had one year remaining on a five-year deal worth $40 million, according to Advertising Age magazine. So, one less year cost him and saved GM eight million dollars. I don't expect Woods will have much of a problem replacing that endorsement money if he chooses. It seems like a pittance in savings on GM's part, but it's a statement of austerity that reflects the collapsing domestic automobile business and an effort to save money that GM sorely needs to portray as they pitch the corporate bail out idea to Washington.

You would think that Woods would be the ideal pitchman for anything, even hemorrhoid cream, but I never saw the Buick marriage as made in heaven. Buick's demographic was and is the 54-75 year old somewhat affluent guy with golf being a common denominator. I'd picture Arnie or a Jay Haas type as carrying more weight with those consumers. I'm certain Buick tried to lower their median purchaser age by hiring Woods, but they never built the product that was desirable to a younger audience. I'd fancy Tiger as more of a Toyota or Lexus spokesperson. That said, I'm sure he didn't hurt them, I just think it was a round peg in a square hole.

Coincidentally, I spent twenty five years in dealership management, a number of which were in GM dealerships during the Tiger era. We were feasted with Buick/Tiger promo material and more than a few ProV1 s with Buick logos came my way. I decided to leave the business exactly one year ago. Sadly, my brethren still in the business have much more to worry about now than just the loss of free golf balls.

Til' next,

Final 8 in Shoot-Out at ADT Championship for $1,000,000.00.

In the LPGA's version of Survivor, 8 women survived the test today at the ADT Championship. Whatever you accomplished in the first 36 was for squat. Prime example, 36 hole leader Katherine Hull, playing the best golf of her career, was sent packing after an unfortunate 79. Instead, Suzann Pettersen was in the driver's seat today after a sizzling 68 in tough, windy conditions. Angela Stanford stayed white hot with a 68. Seon Hwa Lee and Paula Creamer were the next to make Sunday's field with -2, 70s. Creamer was observed doubled over in pain, suffering from an unknown ailment rumored by the talking heads to be appendicitis. Without discounting her obvious pain, and revealing the fact that I'm no doctor, I'd guess more on the side of an intestinal virus. Paula claimed she'd been in pain since Wednesday. Appendicitis probably would have forced her out of the event by now. Regardless, let's hope she's fine for tomorrow's million dollar grab. Jeong Jang and Ji-Yai Shin shared identical 71s to safely make the shoot out. Karrie Webb and Eun-Hee Ji bested Sun Young Yoo in a 1 hole playoff for the 8th and final spot.

Helen Alfredsson birdied the difficult par three 17th hole to remain right in the thick of things. She splashed two balls on 18 however for a triple bogey 7 that ended her chances. Universally loved Christina Kim and In-Kyung Kim struggled to a 79 and 80 respectively.

Pressure packed should be the word of the day on Sunday. Bath tub slick greens may decide the eventual million dollar baby. Be sure to tune in. It's riveting. NBC 3:00 - 6:00 PM, EST.

Til' next,

2008 ADT Championship - 32 Go In, 1 Comes Out.

The last event of the 2008 LPGA schedule, the ADT Championship, will be a series of good byes. Good bye Annika. Good bye ADT. Good bye LPGA economic model. Annika's final US event will be bittersweet. I hope she can focus well enough to be in contention. If last week was a prelude, that isn't a problem. ADT says adios to tour sponsorship. This could be part of a string of withdrawls unless the world economy ticks upwards. Soon. Every company, even the few profitable ones, are reexamining their expenditures like Santa with his list. Realistically there's no reason to expect that pro golf will emerge unscathed while many of their business partners are contemplating survival. The LPGA especially, without the gravitas of it's PGA brethren, is treading on thin ice. OK, enough doom and gloom.

Thirty two women start on Thursday. (Full Field list). The field is culled to sixteen after the second round. After round three there's eight women left standing. The final eight play on Sunday with the winner emerging a cool million richer. How's that for a season ending playoff? Beats the FedEx Cup like a rented mule.

Who does Average Golfer like in this baby? Well, can't really go wrong with any of the 32. I'd like Brittany Lang, but she's just an alternate at this point. Ochoa defends. Annika's playing great. Yani Tseng's having a superb year. Angela Stanford is the hottest player in the field. Inbee Park loves big tourneys. So, it's basically a pick 'em.

Trump International Golf Club is the host. The Golf Channel broadcasts the first three days with NBC taking over for the final round. Check here for broadcast times. Be there for the final US event of the pro golf year.

Til' next,

*For in depth insight on the 2009 LPGA scheduling possibilities check out The Constructivist's latest post.

Davis Love III Over Tommy "Two Gloves" in Thriller at Disney.

Davis Love III shot his second consecutive 64 to hold off a back nine charge by Tommy "Two Gloves" Gainey and win the 2008 Children's Miracle Network Classic at Disney World Resort. Gainey's 30 on the back nine almost had the victory he needed to retain his card. Instead it's back to Q school for the two-time Big Break contestant. Love III finished at -25, one stroke better than Gainey, and knocked a treacherous bunker shot on the 18th to within three feet and sealed the victory. $828,000.00 was pocketed by Love III for the triumph.

It was a two man battle as the nearest finishers were Steve Marino and Scott Verplank, each at -20, 4 strokes in arrears. Joe Durant's superb 65 in the final round gave him solo 5th place. The trio of Scott Sterling, Kevin Streelman, and Troy Matteson finished at -18, T6.

Average Golfer was pulling for Gainey, the every man's representative. His 2nd place finish moved him 40 spots on the money list from 208 to 168, but it was a win he needed to secure his card for 2009. In the glass half full category, he'll have a confidence boost going into Q school. I'm certain we'll see more of Gainey. Everyone refers to his work ethic and drive. That's a huge part of the battle on the tour.

Bubble News

The results are in after this, the last tournament of the season. The "Thank God" spot, #125, belongs to Martin Laird. Those keeping their jobs by a whisker were Brad Adamonis, 124, Jason Bohn, 123, Angel Cabrera, 122, Nick Watney, 121, and Brett Quigley, 120. Those wishing they'd played better earlier in the year included Shane Bertsch, 126, Bob Estes, 127, Patrick Sheehan, 128, Joe Durant, 129, and Charles Warren, 130. $11,504.00 separated Laird and Bertsch, the difference between 126 and 125. Here's the final 2008 money list for your perusal.

Now is when writing on a golf site separates the men from the boys. Two months of "not much" will test Average Golfer's imagination. Maybe I'll start doing a series of reviews on golf tees. Perhaps throw in a contest with the winner receiving a free tee! Gotta nice ring to it.

Til' next,

Election Day at Average Golfer - Vote Early and Often.

Forget the presidency. Let's vote on some issues that really matter. Face it, the president doesn't actually have much power by themselves other than the veto button and the armed forces when we've declared a state of conflict/war. I'm calling on all red-blooded citizens of the world to cast their vote on questions whose consequences will reverberate through the halls of time and have some real world impact. "If it ain't golf, it don't matter!" -Average Golfer, 2001.

I'll post the final tallies within a few days of Election Day. Cast those ballots and they'll be tallied via the comments section or email me at juniorshep@gmail.com

1. Proposition 1, Mulligans.

A. What took so long?
B. Never.

2. Proposition 13, Tim Finchem for US Secretary of the Treasury.

A. Now we'll have some cash.
B. Now we'll really go broke.

3. Proposition 20, Free golf.

A. It's a human right.
B. It'll bring icky people to my course.

4. Proposition 31, Outlaw cargo shorts on the course.

A. They're ruining golf's precious image.
B. We can't afford to turn anyone away.

5. Proposition 39, Separate sex rounds mandatory.

A. Here, here!
B. My wife/girlfriend would slice my throat in my sleep.

6. Declaration 4, Throw out the slow players!

A. About freakin' time.
B. Hey, who you callin' slow!

7. Proposition 52, Ban cliche interviews with pro golfers.

A. Yes, they make my hair hurt.
B. No, then there wouldn't be any interviews at all.

8. Coronation 63, Name your poster child for World Golf.

A. John Daly.
B. Paula Creamer.
C. Write-in __________.

9. Abomination 47, What do you hate most about the golf culture?

A. Snobbiness.
B. Inclusion.

10. Survey 101, This year my game........

A. Improved.
B. Sucked worse than ever.
C. Stayed the same, hum-drum.

11. Question 29, Who would you rather play a round with? It's play a round, not play around.

A. Obama
B. McCain
C. Ralph Nader
D. Ron Paul
E. Hillary

12. Inebriation Ballot 4, Drinking should be mandatory on the course.

A. You mean it's not?
B. Demon drink kills rounds.



Thank you for your anticipated participation. All results will be kept confidential unless otherwise noted. Your email addresses and website info will absolutely not be sold, unless of course Average Golfer receives a mind blowing offer.

Til' next,

Ryan Palmer Birdies the 18th to Win Ginn.

What a difference a day makes. Gee, that would make a great song title. Resurgent Ryan Palmer reversed his 18th hole result from yesterday to separate himself from a bevy of golfers and win the Ginn sur Mer Classic. A pack of six golfers were at one time tied at -6 with two holes left. Palmer's -1, 71 was just enough to squeak by 3rd round leader Michael Letzig, George McNeill,

Vaughn Taylor, and Nicholas Thompson, all of whom finished at -6. At -5 was a second bevy of five players. To say anyone one of these eleven had a chance to win the damn thing in the last few holes would be an understatement.

Palmer began his week as a Monday qualifier and firmly planted in 143th position on the Tour money list. The pay check and the two year exemption for the win have turned his bus around. A throw- in trip to Maui for next year's start is just a bonus. Next week's Children's Miracle Network Classic at Walt Disney World Resort will be the final shot at finishing inside the top 125 and keeping your card for 2009. Wonder what has more pressure, Q school, that tournament, or playing a ten dollar Nassau with five bucks in your pocket? At the very least it'll be interesting.

Til' next,

Duval Slides, Palmer Chokes, Letzig Leads at Ginn sur Mer Classic.

The scramble for the 125th position on the PGA Tour money list is in full combat mode at the Ginn sur Mer Classic in Palm Coast, FL. 2nd round leader Ryan Palmer hit an ill advised driver off the deck on the par five 18th hole. Palmer's errant blast drowned left and short on a hole that no one had reached in two shots all day. Then again, bogeying 3 of his last 4 didn't help. David Duval slipped to a third round 74, including a double bogey, that left him tied for 14th place after having started the day two shots back. Michael Letzig stood to the challenge and birdied 3 of his last 6 holes en route to a -2, 70, 209. That gave him a single stroke cushion over Kenneth Ferrie, 67, and John Huston, 70. Huston made the field as the third alternate.

"Bubble Notes".....Here's the pre-Ginn money standings for the players at or near the top of this week's leader board and a couple of note; Michael Letzig, 109, Kenneth Ferrie, 186, John Huston, 168, Ryan Palmer, 143, David Duvall, 223. Of note, Greg Norman was at 147. Shoulda played I suppose.

Til' next,

Ballesteros Reported Stable After Brain Surgery

Madrid, Spain - Seve Ballesteros, Spanish golf legend, is in stable condition following a 12 hour surgery to remove a brain tumor, his Spanish doctors reported today. The 51 year old has been hospitalized since last week after suffering dizziness and loss of consciousness. "The operation, with the objective of a resection of the detected brain tumor, started at 9:00 AM and concluded without complications," a statement from LaPaz Hospital read.

A resection serves to remove as much of the tumor as possible before the next line of treatment, either radiation or chemotherapy. The results of the intended biopsy were not immediately released. The hospital added that Ballesteros was conscious, in stable condition, and had been moved to the intensive care unit.

Seve has won five major championships including three Open Championships and two Masters championships. His tremendous appeal has any fans of golf worldwide wishing and praying for his recovery.

Til' next,

THE TOUR Championship - Race For 2nd Place.

"The best laid schemes o' mice an' men....." -Robert Burns. Ah, Burnsie, the velvet tongued Scot. And a connection to the game. What Scot wouldn't have one? The scheme was to have the FedExCup playoffs build to a crescendo and crown a victor from among the remaining 30 warriors here at East Lake for THE TOUR Championship. Oops. Vijay Singh preempted the plan and scored the ten million dollar crown nigh on two weeks ago. If he stays vertical and plays four rounds of golf, he goes home in a Brinks truck. If I were Vijay I'd seriously consider a golf helmet. Nasty falls, or more likely, errant shots wouldn't get between me and 10 million dead presidents. The mouse? Well, commissioner Finchem of course. In the first two years of existence his plan got skewered by someone winning two of the four events. I'm sure he'll figure it out eventually regarding the awarding of points. I think he should have anticipated though that any championship held the immediate week after the Ryder Cup would suffer from prestige lag. This event , with it's weakened field and poor positioning, is now relegated to 2nd class status. We still have the men though. Let's have a look at the men.

The men. No Adam Scott, Geoff Ogilvy, or Padraig Harrington. No European Ryder Cupper except Sergio. No Tiger obviously. He's ranked 70th in points and missed the field anyway. Worst of all, no Boo Weekly! Wait, no J.B. Holmes either. NFL here I come. On the bright side, we do get Mickelson, Els, Stricker, Furyk, and Anthony Kim. Weekly and Holmes are the only two American Cuppers that failed to qualify.

I'm jumping on the Camilo Villegas band wagon for this one. I think his is the only bandwagon I haven't been on this year. Motivation shouldn't be a problem. The total purse for THE TOUR Championship is 7 million dollars with 1.26 million going to the winner. Walking around money for Vijay. All told, 16.5 million will be paid to the top ten FedExCup finishers. For the record, another mind boggling number, the PGA Tour will pay out 278 million dollars in prize money this year spread over 48 official events. That's a good down payment to bail out Wall Street. It also makes this average golfer question my dad's idea of sticking a baseball bat in my hands when I was four.

Til' next,

Michelle Wie Does the Right Thing - In Queue for Q-School.

Whether by design or default, the end justifies the means. After a turbulent start to her professional golf career, Michelle Wie has entered LPGA Tour Qualifying School. The truth is she had virtually exhausted her other options to gain tour status. Sometimes fate has the ability to steer us back to where we should have been in the first place. Damn, for Average Golfer that was pretty deep! The 1st stage is scheduled for Sept. 9-16 at Mission Hills Country Club, curiously the site of Wie's near win in the 2006 Kraft Nabisco Championship. That was a high. The lows were missed cuts in men's events, a barely explainable DQ, and a host of other odd career moves that seemed to defy logic and exist to satisfy the overblown egos of her handlers/parents. Q-school is a mulligan for Michelle, a luxury many of us aren't granted when making career decisions. Should she get through this stage, and I fully expect she will, the final rounds will be held Dec. 3-7 at LPGA International in Daytona Beach, FL.

I'm of the opinion that Wie is the only female golfer capable of competing on the men's tour, if competing is defined by making a cut. She's the only player with the length and strength to challenge a PGA tour setup. Armed with that knowledge, she barrelled ahead but lacked the experience and "golf savvy" to prove it. I by no means am suggesting that a men's event should be on her schedule in the near future, but am merely commenting on the size of her game.

If things happen for a reason Q-school for Michelle could be a boon for the LPGA. Having obtained her card the traditional way should remove some of the animus that's been directed at her. The LPGA would have a potential 20 year star at just the time they could use one. Everyone matures at a different rate. Maybe Michelle, on the cusp of real adulthood, will find herself steering her own ship. Regardless of the results, that would be a good thing. Are you listening Mr.& Mrs. Wie?

Til' next,

90th PGA Championship, Harrington.

Crucial late round putting gave Padraig Harrington his second major trophy in as many starts. His victory in the 90th PGA Championship placed him halfway to the coveted "Paddy Slam". Harrington's second consecutive 66 gave him a two shot victory over a game Sergio Garcia and early 4th round leader Ben Curtis. Harrington became the 1st European winner of the PGA since Tommy Armour in 1930. Camilo Villegas finished strong and tied for 4th with a faltering Henrik Stenson. Steve Flesch's 69 gave him solo 6th. Phil Mickelson wilted to a tie for 7th with Andres Romero. Only 3 players finished under par at the notoriously tough Oakland Hills. Harrington at -3 and Garcia and Curtis at -1.

It was a three way battle most of the day in cool and blustery conditions. Garcia had the lead at the turn with Curtis and Harrington in close pursuit. With Garcia's water logged bogey on the 16th hole, Harrington nailed his birdie putt to start a streak of three straight pressure putts that ultimately sealed it for him. A birdie on the par three 17th gave him the lead when Garcia missed from about 4 feet. A cool, calm 15 footer on 18 cemented his win. Curtis hung around on the back nine , but never found the crucial birdie needed to share the lead. Strangely Harrington, in the view from the TV camera, appeared not to blink , even once, on the back nine. That steely determination is precisely what been lacking from competitors in the Tiger era. Maybe a challenge has been raised for next April in Augusta. Padraig will enter that tournament with a two major winning streak. Stay tuned.

Congratulations on hoisting the Wanamaker Trophy Padraig. He's now won 3 of the last 6 majors. I'll go out on a limb and predict the pints will be flowing in Dublin tonight.

Til' next,

Romero, Villegas Shoot Back Into 90th PGA Championship Picture.

Andres Romero's sterling, early 65 and Camilo Villegas' -4 through 14 holes rocketed them both back onto the 90th PGA Championship leader board. Round 3 was KO'd by persistent rain and the PGA will attempt to finish rounds three and four tomorrow. The final three pairings never hit a shot. Hence, the only notable change on the leader board was the appearance of Romero and Villegas. Better scoring conditions and more favorable pin placements were leading to improved rounds based on the partial sample of Saturday players. Romero must feel fairly good sitting in the clubhouse, having completed his round, at +2. He has just 18 more to play on a course that apparently won't succumb to an under par winner.

The plan is for play to begin at 7:15 AM tomorrow. Mother Nature willing, that would provide enough time for the 4th round to be completed in the afternoon. The leaders will be playing 36 holes. Not ideal, but I'm sure CBS prefers it to a Monday finish. Today's rain may have softened the course enough to see movement across the field. I wouldn't be surprised to see at least one other 65 in what would be the 3rd round.

Scheduled Air Times for Sunday: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM, TNT, 2:00 PM-7:00 PM, CBS.

Weather Report for Sunday, Bloomfield Hills, MI.....

Some clouds with the chance of a couple showers developing in the afternoon. High 74F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%.


Til' next,

The Monster Piles Up Victims Like Cordwood at 90th PGA Championship.

Super power hitter J.B. Holmes stood alone as the only player under par after two rounds of the 90th PGA Championship. His mind boggling bomb strategy paid off today because, by his own admission, he was hitting his driver straight. Some of his tee balls were reportedly in the 400 yard range. His 68 today gave him a 139 total and a one stroke advantage over over the trio of Charlie Wi, Ben Curtis, and Justin Rose. Curtis and Rose turned in 67s, good enough for rounds of the day. David Toms and Henrik Stenson were tied at 141, two strokes back. Toms proved that you don't have to be a beast off tee to contend here. Seven players were at 142 including Sergio, Aaron Baddely, and Jeev Milkha Singh. The other Singh and one of Average Golfer's sleeper picks. Did I mention the other Singh was one of my sleeper picks? Phil Mickelson was one more stroke back at 143, tied with a host of players. It's a tight leaderboard with 24 players within 5 shots of the lead.

Sent Packing.....

At press time, with a few players still on the course, the projected cut was a startling +8. This left a veritable all star team with a short weekend. Notable victims include Daly, Couples, Zach Johnson, Scott, O'Hern, Clarke, Choi, Cink, Jimenez, Vijay Singh, Ames, Campbell, Love III, Immelman, Kaymer, Verplank, Westwood, Byrd, Imada, Woody, Montgomerie, and Mahan. Wow, that's a lot of quality carnage. I hope they can field a foursome for tomorrow! Saturday, moving day. Should be at least interesting.

Til' next,

*Average Golfer Comment of the Day belongs to Rees Jones, course designer, whose fingerprints are all over the current Oakland Hills setup. Responding to complaints about the difficulty of the course by many players, Jones said, "The winner never complains."

90th PGA Championship - Odds and Insight.

Boy I sure wish some golfer would jump out and proclaim themselves as the clear cut favorite for the 90th PGA Championship. It's like trying to pick the best dog from a litter of 156. You almost have the feeling that a club pro could break through. Almost. Will Phil come apart again like a $30.00 suit? Will Sergio choose the wrong putter from his extensive collection? Will Vijay continue to miss the cup from inside five feet? Will Kenny Perry manage to stay white hot? Average Golfer breaks down their chances and predicts a winner. Here's the top odds favorites from Ladbrokes' oddsmakers.......

Mickelson, 10/1 ..... Odds based on talent, not shot selection or execution under pressure. Can win, won't win. Still shaken from WGC.

Harrington, 20/1 ..... Has major experience obviously. Can close the deal. Short game helps here. Can win.

Garcia, 20/1 ..... Same old story. You know the tune. If he builds a lead by Saturday, could win.

Singh, 20/1 ..... Gee, I wonder what he's been practicing in his hotel room. Although, he made the putt that mattered last week. Could win.

A. Kim, 25/1 ..... Boy, hard to figure. Game's not in question, his youth is. Could win, tough to pick him though.

Els, 25/1 ..... Should win based on his talent vs theirs. Long running story with Ernie. Have to wait and see. Too risky to pick.

Furyk, 25/1 ..... Ideal set up for the straight, but long enough, hitter. Can win, may pick him.

Westwood, 25/1 ..... Hottest player not to win in the last month. Hard to not pick him. Obviously capable.

Goosen, 25/1 ..... Nasty greens and areas surrounding greens are his specialty. Can win with a hot putter, which is true of a lot of the field.

Scott, 33/1 ..... Get the feeling he's happy with top 10s. May be wrong, but lacks the killer instinct to finish guys off. Can win, won't win.

Ogilvy, 40/1 ..... Mediocre lately for a US Open winner. Regardless though, have to consider him a threat every time he tees it up. Can win.

Mahan, 40/1 ..... Dissed the Ryder Cup without ever having played in it. Bad Karma. Won't win.

Stenson, 40/1 ..... RoboGolfer. Has the tools, seemingly lacks the passion. Could win, probably won't.

KJ Choi, 40/1 ..... Hot earlier in the year. Can't question his tools. Tough guy to figure out. Capable of winning. No call here. Wouldn't be surprised to see him 1st or 61st.

Perry, 40/1 ..... Should be the fan's choice. Achieved his goal, but I'm sure he'd love to win a major to shut up the naysayers. Could win.

Cink, 40,1 ..... Another enigma. Wicked hot six weeks ago. Now, who the &#$* knows? Could win I reckon, long and straight enough. Best with the wacky putter.


Sleeper Picks....

A little tough to call these "sleepers", but for lack of a better name..... Ames, Appleby, Chad Campbell, Cejka, Tim Clark, Leonard, O'Hair, and Jeev Milkha Singh.

Without further ado, the winner of the 2008 PGA Championship is.....

1st - Lee Westwood, He's due, overdue.

2nd - Retief Goosen

3rd - Robert Allenby

There you have it again. Now all you have to do is watch!

Til' next,


*Average Golfer noteworthy pick. We picked Ya-Ni Tseng to win last week's Women's British Open. She finished 2nd. We're due.

Ji-Yai Shin Wins 2008 Women's British Open.

If the 10th ranked player in the world could sneak in under the radar in a major championship, mission accomplished for Ji-Yai Shin at the RICOH Women's British Open. Her -6, 66 today gave her a comfortable 3 shot win over Ya-Ni Tseng, who also closed with a 66. The rather bookish looking Shin, (it's the glasses), drove it straight, hit greens, and made putts. Six birdies and no bogeys in the final round of a major is almost always the recipe for victory. She was the picture of control, even as she got up and down from an 18th hole greenside bunker to seal the inevitable. Truth be told, she'd taken the starch out of her pursuers with a tremendous 45 ft. birdie putt on the 13th. That putt provided the final cushion.

Tseng's 66 launched her to solo 2nd. That, coupled with her earlier victory in the McDonald's LPGA Championship, should have sealed "rookie of the year" honors for her. Yuri Fudoh, who had entered the round with a one shot advantage shot 71 to finish T3 with Eun Hee Ji, 67. Ai Miayazato's final round 70 gave her solo 5th. A costly double bogey on 18 cost her some serious cash. Cristie Kerr finished 6th with a final round 70. Lorena Ochoa ended up T7 with a 69, tied with Momoko Ueda. Paula Creamer, Natalie Gulbis, Karrie Webb, In-Kyung Kim, and Hee-Won Han all shared 9th place. The Japanese players made a great showing with 3 in the top 10. Four Korean players were in the top 10, 2 Americans, and Tseng, from Taiwan, rounded out the international flavor. In a post round interview Shin indicated she'd planned to play in Japan next year, but this win qualifies her for the LPGA and she may rethink her plans. If so, watch out, she's a very steady, accomplished player and I've no doubt she be near the top in any statistical category. Congratulations to Ji-Yai on her break out victory.

In great fashion Annika Sorenstam made a 10 ft. birdie putt on the 18th hole to finish, at least for now, her major career. Her final round 68 gave her a tie for 24th. I do have an Average Golfer observation though, regarding Annika. Why do her sponsors this year insist on providing her with golf attire that makes her look like a fast food clerk? Am I the only one?

Coming tomorrow, PGA Championship Preview.

Til' next,

2008 Women's British Open - Predictions.

Prediction #1. Michelle Wie won't win. Nor will Nancy Lopez. After that it's a crapshoot of sorts with a bevy of players elevating their games and some of the superstars showing a few chinks in their armor. After yesterday's post detailing the favorites with the oddsmakers, I've narrowed it down to my favorite five. Welcome to the land of the considered. I've placed them in reverse order to make you read a little more. Here they are in best Karnac fashion....

5. Paula Creamer - Tough and gritty. Doesn't appear so from the outside. Lack of length off the tee won't hurt on a 6,408 yd. course. Sometimes tightens in the heat of a battle. Others don't.

4. Cristie Kerr - No one will want it more. May be in there at the end. Keep in mind that all my Top 5 have a chance.

3. Lorena Ochoa - Hard to put her 3rd. By far the best women's player. Just a little off of late, which is still good enough to beat most.

2. Angela Park - A hunch more than anything, although she has results to justify. Maybe I'm just mesmorized by her swing.

1. Ya-Ni Tseng - Adds to her major trophy case. Who would have thought a rookie would capture two majors in 2008. Your 2008 RICOH Women's British Open winner.

Be aware that this field is fairly wide open with the best women's golf has to offer. Plenty of other players not mentioned here are legitimate contenders. The way my picks have gone lately, one of them will surely win.

*Average Golfer Observation.....It's a real travesty that the nets have devoted only 7 1/2 hours coverage out of four days of a women's major, with a scant 1 1/2 hours from ABC on Saturday, and just two hours for the Sunday finale. What happened? Is their a badminton tourney somewhere?

Til' next,