Ko and Spieth Against the World

January 12, 2014September 13, 2015 / The Grateful Golfer / 5 Comments

Lydia Ko, pictured here after winning the Canadian Women’s Open in Edmonton on Aug. 25, will join the LPGA Tour next year. (Jason Franson/Canadian Press)

Jordan Spieth holds the trophy after winning the John Deere Classic on Sunday at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Ill. (Charlie Neibergall/Associated Press)

The female and male darlings of golf are Lydia Ko and Jordan Speith. Both have fantastic starts to their career and seem to be well on their way to making a name for themselves as professional golfers. Ko just turned pro and has already won an event on the LPGA. Speith is also a one time winner with 2013 rookie of the year honors to boot. Both appear to have focused goals and positive personalities that the golf industry want to leverage.

There is no question the media are going crazy, the golfing world is talking about their successes and the sponsors are circling. But, is this really what golf is about? Don’t get me wrong, golf is a business and there is money to be made; however, at what cost. There are several players who were treated with the same awe and reverence in the past 10 years, but have disappeared completely or failed to meet the huge expectations of being a world ranked golfer. They were discarded like yesterday’s newspaper. Is to be the fate of Lydia Ko and Jordan Speith?

Expectations of professional or amateur golfers can be a positive influence or a destructive power. We do not have to look far to see the fickle nature of the sports media, golfing fans or professional pundits. Examples like Rory McIlroy playing so poorly in 2013 – how many times was he kicked; Tiger Woods stalled at 14 Majors…..stalled at 14 Majors – are you kidding; Phil Mickelson not winning the US Open is tarnishing his greatness … come on; and finally Henrik Stenson touted as one of the greatest golfers never to win a Major…wow! Is there a possibility that the expectations of some of the golfing greats is a little out of whack?

It is important to understand that expectations are relative. At every level, each golfer has expectations (realistic or unrealistic) about their capabilities. Those are easy to accept. What is difficult to swallow are the golfing analysts who pass judgement on players while sitting in their armchair in a climate controlled room. Is it possible, that golf has lost its way and some major re-tuning is required?

Golf is a great sport! We all have expectations, but let us not forget that golf is meant to be enjoyed. Competition is healthy, fun and exciting. However, a ‘win or else’ competition seen at the professional level is not good for the game. What do you think?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

Changing of the Guard or Is It?

January 7, 2014 / The Grateful Golfer / 9 Comments

In every sport, the changing of the old guard to a new group of defenders occurs about every seven to ten years. Age finally catches up to the élite; while continuing to empower the stronger, faster, and hungrier players. Eventually, the young lions surpass their aging heroes and carry the torch forward. The real question in golf is when does this occur?

Who will be on top at the end 2014? Rory, Phil or Tiger?

During the past few years, the world of golf appears to have shifted its focus towards younger players and that 2014 will be the year for major changes in the world rankings. However, pundits who follow golf would agree that this potential shift is not an actual power struggle. It is more like the media creating hype by pitting old bulls like Tiger Woods, Steve Stricker and Phil Mickelson against the young lions like Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, and Keegan Bradley.

The reality of golf at the professional level is that it is all about the hype! It is no different from any other sport; however its slower evolution does restrict the potential for financial gains experienced by teams like Manchester United or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Golf is starting to generate a world craze and continues to grow in popularity, but the glacial pace can be frustrating. As new emerging players try to break into the ranks of the élite, they will find it extremely difficult to sustain the prowess required to stay at the top because golf is not a sport dominated by youth.

In 2013, there were approximately 160 world events. In 2014, this number is expected to expand as new markets in Asia, specifically China, develop. Of the 2013 events, 19% were won by those in their 20s; 80% were won by those in their 30s; 31% in their 40s and 1% in their 50s. Therefore, professional golfers in their 30s and 40s won 71% of tournaments.

In the PGA last year, the numbers were even higher. Of the top 25 on the money list, 28% were in their 20s, 60% were in their 30s, and 22% were in their 40s. Thus 82% of the top PGA 25 money list were in their 30s and 40s. The percentage of top ten money winners goes even higher!

Lastly, the world rankings demonstrate that the young guns may be stronger than the 2013 numbers demonstrate, but that is largely because players like Rory McIlroy had a great season two years ago and it was carried forward to 2013.

Regardless, the numbers are very consistent. In professional golf, the bulk of the world-class players are in their 30s. The next strongest group are in their 40s. How do you promote golf when the players are mature, focused and generally avoid the spot light off the course? Where players are friends and animosity is rare? Despite recent events, golfers are generally considered gentlemen and conduct themselves accordingly.

Interestingly and to the chagrin of some, the age of the élite players is getting older, not younger. Players like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Steve Stricker have dominated the top of the golfing world for the past 10 years. They move up and down the world rankings, but at the end of each year they are at or near the top! How is this possible? The thought of older players dominating the top of a sport is virtually impossible or is it?

Golf has changed over the past 20 years, but not as the media would suggest. Older players continue to dominate for many reasons and three seem to top the list:

Technology has improved exponentially, thus allowing older players to hit the ball farther without any extra effort;
Players have a greater understanding of a regimented training program. They embrace proper training methods and therefore extend their playing career; and
Their ability to travel the world in hours versus days has improved their quality of life. The ability to move from event to event is grueling, but now they have the ability to travel home faster for that much-needed rest during their golfing season.

The media, promoters and financial investors would like the world to believe that an epic battle is being waged for golfing supremacy and partly they are correct. However, not in the manner that fits the traditional sporting world.

A shift is occurring in golf. More, older players in their 40s are still very competitive, some younger players in their 20s are breaking through, but the bulk of the élite golfers are still in their 30s. The unmentioned shift is the dominance of older players. Golfers between 35-40 years old are more competitive than ever. As the élite players get older and they see not reason to relinquishing their title without a fight. As the world prepares for the upcoming golf season, they should be ready to see the same names at the top of the leader board and not be duped by the media hype hailing for a changing of the guard!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

New Clubs for 2014

December 30, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / Leave a comment

Previously, I discussed my annual trip to Golf Town to check out the deals and hopefully buy a new 3-wood or putter. This yearly pilgrimage signifies the close of one season and the start of another. I start by making a list of goals, hopes and aspirations for the upcoming golfing season. To accomplish these amazing feats, I check my clubs and decide if I need any new equipment. For me, purchasing new clubs is a want, but has to fit a need.

This year my list consisted of three major items (and some minor items that were definitely a want):

3-wood;
putter; and
rain gear.

Each of these items fills a goal of being able to have more options while on the tee and fairway, greater confidence around the green, and the ability to play in wet weather. These goals seem very broad, but I will discuss them in greater detail in upcoming articles.

Back to my trip; as I entered the store, I followed my usual routine. I walked around looking for sales, examined the new equipment, and then focused on the items on my list. As a side note, I always go to the golf ball section to see the sales. Sometimes I impulse buy to try a new ball if the price is right. But, not this trip.

I decided to start at the putters section. The putter I use is approximately 10-years old. It is a ProGear putter with a resign insert in the face. I have had tremendous success with it through the years, unfortunately less so in the past two. I did some research (checked out The White Dragon Putter – it is very interesting) to make sure I knew what I was looking before I tried them. As my selection process started, I picked up a blade putter, mallet putter, offset putter….you name it I tried it. I tried all the big named putters, not so bit name putters, and one was even a hockey stick (worked for Happy Gilmore!). Sadly or maybe not, I putted the same way with all the putters. It made no difference what so ever! So after an hour and 500 putting strokes, I concluded that the reason for my failing putting stroke was not enough practice. So I am going to start there before I buy a new club. Check out PGA.com for selecting a new putter, I found it very helpful.

Next was the wet weather gear. It was a quick look. I did not find anything I liked under $400. I am not ready to spend that kind of cash on golf clothes……yet!

Callaway WarBird – 1998

Click On Image for Club Review from Golf.com

Last was my search for a new 3-wood. I went around to all the different makes and models and tried a couple in Golf Town’s practice facility. Most had a lower profile face; this is different for me because I still use my 1998 Callaway Warbird 3-wood. It has a Memphis 10 shaft which I hit straight, but have lost some distance, hence the need for a change.

Ultimately, I chose the Callaway Razr Fit. It suited my eyes well; it felt solid; and the ball appeared to jump off the club head. It is a couple of years old, but I liked it better than the new technology clubs. Additionally, it was at the right price. It has a stiff shaft and that fits the rest of my clubs.

Well, the 2014 season has officially started. I am excited to see what this year brings. As per earlier years, I am filled with hope and excitement for the links to open. So the count down has started. 106 days!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

Want Vs. Need

December 20, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 3 Comments

During the holiday season, we all struggle with the want versus need question. We think, over think, lament, internally discuss and ultimately stress over what I want versus need to improve my golf game. Think about what you want for Christmas. Now think about what you need for Christmas. Is there a disconnect? In some cases, probably; in the select few, no.

The want versus need discussion always evolves into a catch 22. But really, most golfers confuse their want versus need. Here are some examples:

I want to hit the ball farther! I need a new driver!
I want lower scores. I need to play more on the course.
I want to hit the ball straighter. I need to change my grip, stance, back swing…..every time.
I want to break 100. I need better equipment.
I want to be a better putter. I need a new putter.

I bet you can see the pattern developing – the focus for most people on the want versus need dilemma is equipment. It is quite possible to shift the wants and needs above into many combinations; only your imagination will limit you.

However, is this really the way to look at the want versus need questions? How about we re-frame the statements:

I want to hit the ball farther. I need go to the range a practice.
I want lower scores. I need to learn more about course management.
I want to hit the ball straighter. I need to take lessons from my local pro.
I want to break 100. I need to practice my short game.
I want to be a better putter. I need practice my putting before each round.

To understand the want versus need aspect of golf, and in life, actually requires introspection on what is the real challenge. Do not get we wrong, sometimes new equipment is required, but an ugly swing with a $100 dollar driver is just as ugly with a $500 driver. The only difference is that with a $500 dollar driver, you can hit the ball further into the woods!

Well, I am off to Golf Town to look for a new driver! Just kidding! I am a grateful golfer! See you on the practice range!

The Wild World of Golf

December 17, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 4 Comments

As the holiday season arrives, I like to reflect on how grateful I am for my fantastic life. Each year I realize how much golf means to me by the Christmas cards we receive with the golfing theme (thanks Dale and Nancy).

I read blogs like the Adam Sarson, Brewcee’s Golf Blog, Lets Talk Golf, Golf Habits, All About Golf and White Dragon Golf. Some commiserate with me about the cold weather and others keep me informed about the golfing world and helps me pass the 5 months of non-golfing in Canada. I like watching the golfing events around the world and see players like Sergio Garcia win tournaments in other parts of the world….and watch as he prepares for the Masters!

Lastly, I like to see people from different parts of the world look at my blog. Today, there were people from the US, Spain, South Africa, Malaysia, Finland, Germany and Australia. It is amazing how easy golfing blogs can touch different parts of the world. Another thing to be grateful for!

The holiday season is fast approaching and I am looking forward to a few days off and hanging with my best friend. I hope everyone is going to enjoy their holiday season.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!