He is back! Tiger Woods announced that he will play in the 2015 Masters! This revelation is not surprising and many people associated with golf are elated the hear that the biggest draw in golf is ready to play. His two month absence has stirred speculation on whether Woods would even return, but now all the musing, nay-sayers and arm-chair golfing pundits can focus on if Woods has a chance to win this year.

Woods announcement was short and to the point. From TigerWoods.com yesterday: “I’m playing in the Masters,” Tiger said Friday afternoon. It’s obviously very important to me, and I want to be there. I’ve worked a lot on my game and I’m looking forward to competing. I’m excited to get to Augusta and I appreciate everyone’s support.”

The short message has fueled a fair bit of speculation because it does not mention that he his ready, is game is in form, or that he expects to win. Actually, his announcement was perfect. His attempt to manage expectations by under playing his current state of readiness will allow for a positive reaction to any number of outcomes. If he wins, he smiles rides the wave of excitement in the golfing world and he lets the media take care of spreading the word that he is officially back. If he plays poorly, he will be considered a tough competitor who understands the importance of the Masters and he was playing for the love of the game. Quite brilliant actually.

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Lydia Ko’s spectacular run to break Annika Sörenstam’s record for the most consecutive rounds under par can to a sudden stop yesterday. After 29 rounds of sub-par play, Ko shot a one over 73 at the ANA Inspiration. It is amazing that anyone would shoot 29 rounds under par, but to be 17 years old, be the number one player in women’s golf, and have an excellent attitude is incredible. Watch her composure below:

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In less than 5 days, the world’s best golfers will tee it up in hopes of winning the green jacket. There have been many great articles already written about the first Major of 2015 and of course the speculation of who is going to win is at the top of the list. One of the best to date is by Brian Penn called 2015 Masters Picks. If you have not read it, I suggest you do because it has a unique twist.

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But, before I head down that path of selecting my picks for the Masters this year, let’s focus on the Shell Huston Open which is still under way. It is quite exciting to see some familiar names and unfamiliar names at the top of the leader board. Although this article will be released before the end of the third round, the biggest news from the Shell Huston Open is the play of Canadian Graham DeLaet. I picked him as a “Dark Horse” for the 2015 professional golf season and winning this weekend will only reinforce my psychic abilities. It is great to see DeLaet playing to his potential!

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There is plenty of news out there! Being bombarded by all aspects of golf is sometimes overwhelming. Personally, I try to focus on the positive aspects of golf, fun topics, great tips, and the ‘good news’ stories. If you find any you would like to share, please pass them on!

This is my 501st article since starting The Grateful Golfer blog and I want to thank everyone who has read, commented, and passed on my articles! Thank you for being part of The Grateful Golfer Community!

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