November 2009

Monthly Greens Committee Report

Presented to The Rim Greens Committee

By

Golf Course Superintendent

Justin C. Ruiz, CGCS

November 2009

Course Condition

The recent late fall application of fertilizer has put some color into the course but, the cool weather is hardening off the grass to begin winter dormancy.

Projects Completed

The late fall fertilizer application was completed to not only provide proper carbohydrates for the plant to store during the winter but, also increase plant vigor during the green up process in the spring. I have posted an article on the course blog that explains in more detail the necessity of a late fall fertilizer application. click here to read more.

Projects in Process

The seasonal staff have been laid off for the winter and the main focus is to make sure we are getting all areas mowed once a week. The greens have been reduced to twice per week. We have had no problems following this schedule.

Outside of mowing the projects we are working on are cleaning out the water feature on 7, 8, and 9. We have removed cattails and weeds out of the creek with the backhoe in open areas. For the restricted access areas, we have purchased a saw blade for the weed eater that makes quick work of the cattails.

We are also keeping up with the maintenance of the irrigation system. The Round up had a recent article of the drought that has plagued us this year. Click here to read the Round up Article. Our water management techniques have proven to do well even in dry years like this one. I have a post on my blog that shows the hard data on what we have accomplished in this drought year. Read more.

Projects Planned

Future winter projects that we are looking at are as follows:

- Fixing the walk paths from tee to fairway

- Firewise

- Trimming the vegetation around the pro shop and restaurant

- Mowing the native

- Drive off repair

Ballmark and Divot Repair Party

We have been looking at setting up another work party for the members to help us out on the golf course. Look for the invitation in the next couple weeks. We haven’t nailed down a date yet but it will not be close to Christmas. You can see the post about our last ballmark and divot repair party. here.

Side Notes

As you know we were going to be spotlighted in Golfdom magazine for hole of the month for November. This can be viewed here.

I have also been asked to write an article on our water conservation practices for Golf Industry Magazine.

I have written an article for Golf Course Management Magazine about social media and how it can benefit communication and networking.

I have written an article based upon my presentation about best management practices for water conservation that will be published in a future Golf Course Industry magazine.

We will be spotlighted in an upcoming issue of Golfdom magazine on our water issues and how we have managed them.

I am still going to the San Diego conference and show to present our plan to reduce water usage through a combination of practices titled Every Last Drop. Here.

I have recently been invited as the first superintendent to sit on the council for The International Sustainability Council. They have asked me to help them launch their sustainable golf course management approach.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dan or me.

Justin C. Ruiz, CGCS

justinr@therimgolfclub.org

928.951.3421

Dan Devere, CGCS

ddevere@chaparralpines.org

928.951.3272

Tiger Speaks

November 2009

Statement from TigerWoods.com

As you all know, I had a single-car accident earlier this week, and sustained some injuries. I have some cuts, bruising and right now I'm pretty sore.

This situation is my fault, and it's obviously embarrassing to my family and me. I'm human and I'm not perfect. I will certainly make sure this doesn't happen again.

This is a private matter and I want to keep it that way. Although I understand there is curiosity, the many false, unfounded and malicious rumors that are currently circulating about my family and me are irresponsible.

The only person responsible for the accident is me. My wife, Elin, acted courageously when she saw I was hurt and in trouble. She was the first person to help me. Any other assertion is absolutely false.

This incident has been stressful and very difficult for Elin, our family and me. I appreciate all the concern and well wishes that we have received. But, I would also ask for some understanding that my family and I deserve some privacy no matter how intrusive some people can be.

Black Friday

November 2009

Throughout his career, Tiger has never been in the news for anything negative other than cursing or throwing clubs.

As everyone knows, he was involved in a car crash early Friday and unfortunately, there are lot of unusual details.

Who knows what is true and what is not true at this point.

I'm not going to go the National Enquirer route on this but if you're interested in various theories go here:

Wei under par
Waggleroom

Personally, as a huge Tiger fan, I hope he's fine and none of these rumors are true.

Buying Someone A Golf Gift

November 2009

So you're thinking of buying someone a golf gift. Well this is more of a plea than an article because I am going to ask you to consider a few things before you go out and buy a golf gift for a friend.

In this article I am going to explain three different types of golf gift that you can give to a golfer.

Obviously the golf gift that you ultimately buy will depend on your budget but whatever your budget is there are still three categories of gifts. These are:

Trash Golf Gifts.

Golf Gifts that are absolute rubbish and that the golfer will neither appreciate nor use. Don't waste your money on this type of golf gift.

Perfectly Acceptable Golf Gifts.

These are the golf gifts that are practical will be appreciated and will be used but are not long lasting. These type of golf gifts are very acceptable and inexpensive. They are also very safe to give if you are uncertain.

Special Golf Gifts.

Unusual golf gifts that are both welcome and sought after fall into this category. Usually the more expensive type items which for some reason the golfer won't buy for himself (ladies are included in that "him" but for the ease of this article I shall simply refer to all golfers as "him").

Trash.

As a golfer I simply cringe when I receive these well intentioned gifts from friends. Please do not misunderstand the golfer in me. Yes the thought does count, and for that reason is appreciated, but seriously what am I going to do with a gimmick golf ball that explodes on impact?

I mean these things don't even look real and after one shot my gift is no more!

Or the golf ball that squiggles all over the place when you try to putt it. It's not funny for even one putt.

Other items that fall into this category are those golf gifts that are sold by the large discount houses. You know the ones - there are 6 golf pegs, one cheap golf ball and a cheap pitch repairer and stroke counter presented on a cardboard based wrapping with some sort of brand name like Pro Golf or something just as silly.

Perfectly Acceptable Golf Gifts

Most people should buy gifts that fall in to this category and you will never go wrong. These golf gifts should be purchased from your local pro shop. Why the local pro shop? Well because the Pro shops don't usually sell gimmicks or rubbish.

What to buy?

What's your budget?

Just about anything in the shop will be more than acceptable. Golf balls are always acceptable golf gifts but please, please find out what type of ball your recipient plays with. One ball of the preferred type is better than a sleeve of three balls that the player doesn't use. If he is a new golfer and has no preference then fine just go ahead and buy a perfectly acceptable golf ball. Let your budget determine which one. In fact if he is totally new to golf buy as many cheap ones as your budget will allow as they will probably all land up in the water anyway.

Golf shirts also make great golf gifts as do pegs, pitch mark repairers, pencils, club covers for woods and irons and a lesson with a pro.

Ask the pro for advice and if he happens to know the person you are buying for all the better.

Special Golf Gifts.

Golfers are strange animals and will often want something desperately but not buy it for some obscure reason. This gives you a golden opportunity to get that special golf gift and be remembered forever.

Items that fall into this category are usually slightly bigger ticket items - but not always. Anyway the phrase "big ticket item" is relative and what may seem expensive to some is quite acceptable to others.

Special golf gifts would include a specific golf bag, a set of clubs, an individual club, a specialty club (rescue irons are the rage at the moment), a golf cart, a golf "trundler", and all weather gear.

These are just a few of the things that would be treasured and of course you will be remembered and thought of every time the player plays uses your special golf gift.

What prompted me to write this article?

As a keen golfer I have received thousands of golf gifts over the years - most have fallen under the "Trash" category from well intentioned friends who have no idea about golf.

My golf buddies invariably give me the odd golf ball and a bottle of wine (red please and always appreciated!).

But recently I was given something that I was not even considering and, to be honest, would never have bought for myself - a wooden putter. At first I thought my wife had gone crazy but once I started using this beautiful golf gift I was over the moon.

It is without a doubt the most treasured and useful golf gift I have ever received.

So there you have it - three different categories of golf gifts that will help you buy the type of gift that will either be thrown away, or cherished and used with fond memories of you. If you are ever really stuck for a golf gift then golf balls are probably the safest bet.

As a keen golfer I would prefer all my gifts to be golf related. To see the best gift I ever received go to this page and see why I am so ecstatic.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lawrence_Bredenkamp

Golf Grips and Full Release Grips

November 2009

Grips are the most important equipment of golf club. Golf grips which provides faster grip lose is considered to be best golf grips. There are different companies in the market that manufactures the golf grips keeping needs of the golfers in mind. Experts recommend frequent change of golf grips to avoid disadvantages of your used golf grips which may be lead to loosing your grip due to hardening, oxidizing or grips getting slick. It is always better to change your golf grip either after 3,000 rounds or once in six months.

Introduction of full release golf grips is considered to be the biggest change in the golf club during last century. Full release golf grips help you in improving you game. Full release golf grip enables you to hit straighter and farther. It also gives you advantage of improving accuracy, confidence and distance. You will find number of golf grips available for sale in the market. You have wide range to choose from. Golf grips and full release golf grips are manufactured according to the approved specifications. Full release golf grips facilitate you in full release of the golf club and to achieve club head speed at its optimum.

Following are the some examples of full release golf grips.

• X-line full release golf grip: This golf grip is made up of smooth rubber. You have the option to either purchase it singly or are available in the set of 13 set golf kit.

• X-line cord golf grip

• X-wrap full release golf grip: These x-line grips are also made up of smooth rubber.

• 2 color wrap full release golf grip

• Designer wrap full release golf grip: These golf grips are made from soft polyurethane. These are tacky wrap golf grips. Designer wrap full release golf grips are available in two types names Wrap designer red golf grip and wrap designer blue red grips. These designer grips are known for their property of becoming tackier where the weather is inclement.

• Reverse design golf grips

Generally these full release golf grips are available in golf grip sets. A golf grip kit consisting of grip tape, visuals (video) and instructions for use of golf grips is always accompanied with the golf grips.

Full release golf grips manufactured according to Taperedo Technology specifications are like that of baseball bat grip, thinner at the top end and thicker at bottom end. Patents confirmed golf grips permits you easy release that enhances swing speed of club and gives you improved game touch.

Following are the few salient features of full release golf grips.

• Full release golf grips help you in professional players’ like proper finger tip grip. This helps you in improving your game.

• Full release golf grips provide you with enhanced distance and speed of club head.

• Full release golf grip helps you in improving your short game.

• Full release golf grips allow you powerful release without changing swing weight.

• Golf grip reduces hooks and dispersion in slice-shots.

Full release golf grips have displaced the traditional grips. It is felt that these full release golf grips will become more popular in near feature considering the benefits it offers to improve your golf game.

Golf Grips and Full Release Grips Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Petten

Everything You Wanted to Know About Golf Clubs - Almost!

November 2009

A good set of golf clubs is the weapon of choice for the advanced golfer. A complete set of clubs consists of at least one driver, fairway woods (which are now metal woods), irons and a putter. Some clubs in recent years have been replaced with hybrid golf clubs to replace longer irons and fairway metal woods.

There is an entity known as the USGA or the United States Golf Association. This group determines the rules of golf, including the number of golf clubs that can be used in a round of golf. This limit is fourteen golf clubs. Normally, the standard golfer would have one driver, one putter, three wedges, seven irons, and two fairway woods in their golf bag. The combination of golf clubs is as varied as there are golfers. Hybrid golf clubs have begun replacing some of the longer golf irons and fairway woods in the golf bag.

The driver is the club that is most golfers favorite golf club, even though it is usually not used on every hole. The driver golf club is the longest golf club with the biggest head at the end of the shaft. This allows the golfer to hit the golf ball with the greatest distance, but not always the most accuracy. Rules regulate the size of the club head. The golf club driver will be the most expensive single golf club in the golfers bag. Name brand golf club drivers will cost between $200 and $400. Discount golf club drivers can be purchased for around $100 or even less.

The fairway woods have club heads that are slightly more lofted than the driver, and are used for long shots when the ball is lying on the ground. The club heads used to be made of wood, but now are mostly metal. Fairway woods normally retail from $150 to $300. You can realize major savings with clone golf woods that run at quite a discount over name brand golf woods.

Hybrid golf clubs have made a big entry into the world of golf clubs. They are very versatile golf clubs that are used in place of long irons and fairway woods. Hybrid golf clubs combine the best features of the fairway wood and long irons. Wit this versatility, they can be used almost anywhere on the golf course. Prices for hybrid golf clubs run similar to drivers, but discount hybrid golf clubs are available along with clone and knockoff hybrid golf clubs.

Golf irons are the essence of a set of golf clubs. Two thirds of the shots in a normal round of golf will utilize an iron. Irons are used to hit the golf ball off the ground from distances of 125 yards to 225 yards. Each iron is assigned a number based upon the loft angle of the club head. The 9-iron has the most loft, a shorter shaft, and is used to hit short, high shots. A 2-iron has very little loft, a longer shaft, and is used to hit low, long shots.

Golf club wedges can be part of the golf club iron set purchase. Normal golf club wedges include a pitching wedge, the sand wedge and different lofts of lob wedges. These golf club wedges are used for shots that are within 100 yards or closer to the green. These shots are sometimes referred to as the money shot because they should get you very close to the pin. The number of wedges carried by the golfer is dependent upon their particular golf game and their strengths and weaknesses.

The golfer has the choice of 2 primary types of golf club irons. For the more experienced golfer, forged irons are mad for precision and enable easier shaping of shots for draws and fades. Cavity-backed golf irons have a larger sweet spot and are more forgiving on off-center shots, providing straighter shots. A set of golf irons consisting of 2 through 9, a sand wedge and a pitching wedge, would range in price from $250 to over $1,500. Discount golf irons can provide great savings and are sometimes referred to as knockoff golf irons or clone golf irons.

The final and perhaps most important golf club, is the putter. The putter is also known as the "money club" because it is the club used to tap the ball into the hole. The purpose of the putter is to roll the ball, so there is no loft on the club head.

Being the most important golf club, the putter has gone through quite a change in recent years. The size and shape of the putter head comes in many different varieties. The shaft length also can be very short or very long and anywhere in between. Conventional putters, belly putters, mallet putters - the choices seem endless. Golf club putters also have a wide range of prices, ranging from around $20 to around $300.

Kevin is the husband of Becky and the father of 2, Nicholas and Kirsten. He is an avid sports fan and over-all good guy. He has taken his love of sports and developed web sites that offer that love of sports to others.

http://www.GolfClubsHome.com

http://collectiblesport.com/golfmemorabilia

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Fairbanks

The Perfect Golf Swing

November 2009

Trying to achieve the perfect golf swing, believe it or not it is well within your ability, even if you are a just started playing golf. Executing the perfect golf swing is a difficult feat and doing it consistently is even harder to accomplish. How you start out learning the mechanics of the perfect golf swing is crucial. The perfect golf swing is the one that is effortless through good technique. If you break down the golf swing both mechanically and physically you will see that the body goes many turns and pivots to create the perfect golf swing. The proper or perfect golf swing is really a study in physics. Indeed the perfect golf swing is every golfer’s goal and dream. Golfer’s believes the perfect golf swing is a myth, but it is attainable all you need to do is practice the basics until the swing becomes second nature.

Practicing creates muscle memory to develop a perfect golf swing. If you do, you'll develop your perfect golf swing and realize the wonderful rewards that the game of golf returns in a much sooner fashion. As a beginner you want to develop the right foundation. There are many training aids available to help you develop a good golf swing. Every golfer appears ready to do anything to develop more power in his/her golf swing. When playing golf on the golf course, and you develop a golf slice, here are three easy ways to improve the horrible left-to-right slice shot. It is just a matter of wanting to develop that skill to the fullest potential. If you have the right swing you will develop an excellent golf game. By seeing your own swing plane in action you could rapidly develop the perfect golf swing. A consistent position helps develop a repeatable swing.

Or are you more serious, do you want to develop your game to a higher level. It is actually impossible to play a good game of golf without being able to execute an effective golf swing. Thankfully, there are sufficient programs available which can really promote your game to the next level. Close to a million people are looking for assist with their golf game each month. Improve your golf game by analyzing your current golf swing from all angles. In fact any strength exercise will have an impact on the golf game. It is the same when you develop a psychology for your golf game. These easy golf putting tips will help to improve your golf game score and experience. To really improve your golf game you need to start with an open mind. In the game of golf, no two people ever have the same golf swing. Practice your golfing skills and improve your overall game with our practice golf balls.

You'd be amazed at how quickly you can improve your golf swing and game with this approach. The inside approach is another great golf training aid to help improve any golf swing. But more avid players are always trying to improve their swing and overall game. These easy golf putting tips will help to improve your golf game score and experience. Improve your distance and accuracy. Your distance and accuracy will improve after only a few trips to the range. Not to mention the fact that you will improve your overall golf game. You can improve your swing, your putting, and your shot. If you want to improve your game, it might be a good idea to get some golf instruction.

The perfect golf swing is what we all aspire to attain. To execute the perfect golf swing is not easy especially when trying to do it consistently. Indeed the perfect golf swing is every golfer’s goal and dream isn't it.

David Marc Fishman is the owner of tipsquad.com [http://www.tipsquad.com]. The new how to [http://www.tipsquad.com] via video

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Fishman

The Best Golf Fitness Exercise to Improve the Power in Your Golf Swing

November 2009

The game of professional golf has transformed over the years. Many spectators, journalists, and pros themselves state that golf is now a game of power. Driving distance is integral to winning on Tour, club manufacturers gear much of their advertising around the “power game”, and it is a wish of most every amateur.

Improved distance off the tee or with any club on the course requires increased clubhead speed. Clubhead speed is a product of power in your golf swing. Increasing the power in your golf swing will improve your clubhead speed. Equaling more distance on every shot you desire.

The question to ask is how do you increase the power in your golf swing? Three components exist directly affecting the power in your golf swing:

1) Efficiency of Your Golf Swing Mechanics

2) Power Generating Capacities of Your Body

3) Equipment

Review of the list indicates three integral components exist that directly affecting your clubhead speed. First and foremost are your golf swing mechanics. Golf swing mechanics can either be efficient or inefficient.

Efficient golf swing mechanics allow for you to input the greatest amount of power developed within your golf swing into the club and golf ball.

Inefficient golf swing mechanics result in the exact opposite. Inefficient swing mechanics create what is described as “energy leaks” within your golf swing. “Energy leaks” cause less power to be translated to the club and golf ball. This is because large amounts of energy are lost during the mechanics of the swing.

Again, to improve your clubhead speed and the power outputs within your golf swing. It is necessary to develop efficient golf swing mechanics.

Secondly, equipment does play a role in your clubhead speed. The technological advances in both club and golf balls have an effect. The key to increasing your power outputs in relation to equipment is to get the correct club and ball for your swing.

Matching up your swing and swing speed with the correct equipment will allow you to get the most clubhead speed out of your swing. For example, if your average swing speed is 95 and you are using extra stiff shafts. This could easily result in a loss of clubhead speed in your swing.

It is strongly recommended you get fitted for your equipment. Getting fitted matches up the correct equipment with your swing. Allowing you to get the most “bang for your buck” in terms of your golf swing.

Finally, we come to the topic of this article and that is your body. Your body has a direct affect on clubhead speed. It is your body swinging the club, and generating power within the mechanics of the golf swing.

That being said, developing power within your golf swing is directly related to the ability of your body to generate power. Often times this is the forgotten component by many amateurs in relation to developing power.

In order to increase the power outputs in your golf swing it is necessary to implement golf fitness exercises into your training program.

Golf fitness exercises increase the ability of your body to generate power within the golf swing. Resulting in increased clubhead speed.

What is the best golf fitness exercise to increase power in your golf swing?

Before answering that question we must look at the mechanics of the golf swing. The golf swing is both a linear and rotational movement.

Composed of finite biomechanical movements performed in a specific order. In addition to performing the biomechanics of the golf swing in a specific order, timing each movement is also required.

In order to perform the mechanics of the golf swing correctly it is necessary for the body to have certain levels of flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power built within the body.

If one does not have these physical parameters developed within the body to a certain level. The ability to perform the mechanics of the golf swing efficiently, and generate power will be compromised.

The answer to the question of the best exercise for improving the power in your golf swing is not one specific exercise.

Improving power in your golf swing requires a “basket or exercises” including flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power training.

A combination of flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power exercises are the key to enhancing the power in your golf game.

To summarize, improving the power in your golf swing consist of;

1) Efficient golf swing mechanics, 2) Proper equipment, 3) Golf fitness training.

The combination of these three components result in increased clubhead speed in your golf swing.

Not one single golf fitness exercise can improve the power outputs in your golf swing. It is rather a combination of flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power training exercises that enhance clubhead speed.

Implement a comprehensive a golf fitness program into your schedule will undoubtedly increase your clubhead speed, driving distance, and overall performance on and off the course.

About the Author

Sean Cochran is one of the most recognized golf fitness instructors in the world today. He travels the PGA Tour regularly with 2005 PGA & 2004 Masters Champion Phil Mickelson. To learn more about Sean and his golf fitness programs go to http://www.seancochran.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Cochran

Happy Thanksgiving

November 2009

With the 2009 season about over, there are just a few more notable events to watch out for.

The Tiger World Challenge in December.
Q School.

2009 PGA Tour: What could have been

November 2009

There were a lot of great moments throughout the 2009 season, and there were even more what if and what could have been moments.

• Kenny Perry could have won the Masters had he not bogeyed the final two holes in regulation.
• Phil Mickelson could have won the Masters and could have had one of the most famous final rounds in history after shooting 30 on the front nine. His double bogey on 12 cost him that shot.
  
• Mickelson could have won the U.S. Open in heroic style with his wife going through cancer.
  
• David Duval could have comeback from nowhere to win the U.S. Open. An unfortunate plugged lie that led to a triple bogey early in his final round really hurt his chances.
  
• Tom Watson, 59 years old, could have been the oldest player ever to win the British Open before a heartbreaking bogey on the final hole sent him to a playoff against Stewart Cink.
  
• Tiger Woods was in contention at both the Masters and U.S. Open. Poor ball striking at the Masters and terrible putting at the U.S. Open killed his chances.
  
• Tiger Woods could have won the PGA Championship for the 5th time before being stunned by Y.E. Yang. This was the first time Tiger ever lost a major with the lead going into the final round.

Looking back on it, the major winners very well could have been something like this.

Masters: Phil Mickelson
U.S. Open: David Duval
British Open: Tom Watson
PGA: Tiger Woods

Golf Gifts and Golf Grip Kits

November 2009

Gifts, as is known are matter of expressing intimacy and are exchanged without price. Golf gifts are no exception. Being a golfer when you think of gifting something to anyone the first thing which will come to your mind will surely be the golf gift. Usually golf gifts are given to potential young golfers to encourage them to play more and more golf.

You have to choose perfect golf gifts for these young beginners considering their style. You have plenty of golf articles and accessories to choose from. To name some of golf gifts they are golf clubs, golf irons, golf bags, golf knickers, classic ball case etc. IN the succeeding paragraphs we will elaborate on importance of each golf gift.

In my opinion golf books are the best golf gifts for beginners. A beginner learns lot of things about game and adds to his/her knowledge of the game by reading golf books

Next come golf lessons. These lessons help potential beginners to decide whether he/she really wants to take the game or he/she likes the golf or not. Golf lessons, golf books and CDs/DVDs are excellent golf gifts for beginners.

Many beginners start playing golf with hired or borrowed golf clubs. Usually, golf clubs are considered as matter of personal choice. However, one may not be willing to purchase expensive golf clubs at the beginning. For such people first set of golf club is considered as best gift amongst other golf gifts. Remember to present these golf clubs in a golf bag.

There are number of golf accessories available in markets which as categorized as golf gifts. Golf gloves, ball markers and tees, though some what expensive, are nice golf gifts. Depending to you affordability and intimacy to the person you are going to present golf gifts you may like to present a full set of golf starter kit to a potential beginner.

Golf balls are also the popular articles for presenting as golf gifts. Beginners are not concerned about the type, compression and construction of these golf balls. You can choose golf balls personalizing with nickname, name or customs logo of the beginner. Only disadvantage of gifting such golf balls is that if the ball is lost the person to whom you have gifted it may get upset.

Golf shoes are other option from the golf gifts. Golf shoes are basic requirement for playing golf. Choosing a right shoe that will be fitting and providing comfort to the person you are gifting is not an easy task. Remember you have alternate option of gift certificate. Instead of presenting golf shoes as golf gifts, present a gift certificate and allow him/her to purchase shoes of his/her choice.

Golf courses are considered to be one of the expensive ventures of sports due to their fees structure. To avoid such expensive venture, driving ranges are considered to be best alternative. Presenting a membership of driving range may be the best among golf gifts for a beginner.

Ball tokens, golf gift certificates and 10 bucket pass are the other golf gifts available. Golf gifts are considered to be a motivating factor for beginners.

Golf Grip kits are a common phenomenon amongst golfers. Golfers are always choosy about their golf grip kits. Golf grip kits consist of tape, instruction book and a CD or DVD containing photos about use of golf equipments. Usually, golf grip kits are provided with golf irons and golf grips. Golf grip kits provide you all information like specification, maintenance guide and instruction about the handling of the equipment. Golf grip kits are of utmost importance for the beginners are they get the required information of golf equipments through these golf grip kits.

Golf Gifts and Golf Grip Kits

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Petten

Golf Fitness Exercises for the Amateur Golfer

November 2009

With all the talk about the players on tour getting stronger and more flexible, we hear a lot about exercising for golf from television commentators and read about it in the golf publications. But what exactly are the best exercises for the amateur golfer?

A great question that has a good answer, but before we give you the answer let us provide some background so the answer makes a little more sense to you. First of all, discussing the golf swing for the time being will get us rolling.

What exactly is the golf swing? The golf swing is an athletic movement that requires using of the entire body from “feet to fingertips” in order to complete the swing. Realize that the golf swing is not about the club, not just about your grip, or where your head is during the swing. The golf swing is a movement that requires your entire body to move through a sequence of movements with the correct timing. To perform the “athletic movement” of the golf swing requires the body to begin at address, move through the actual phases of the golf swing and complete it with the follow through. In order to perform this activity with efficiency and repetitively, the body must have certain physical parameters.

These parameters, as I call them, are actual physical categories of the body that need to be developed to a certain level. These categories of the body are the platform from which the body is able to perform the athletic movement of a golf swing efficiently. The categories are probably familiar to many of you, but for the purpose of this article let us briefly run through them.

The body is required to have certain levels of flexibility, balance, endurance, strength, and power to complete a golf swing. If the body lacks in any of the above categories, then the results will be seen in the golf swing. The results are usually in the form of poor mechanics, bad shots, or poor scores on the course. So, now that we know what the connection is between the “body” and the “swing” let us address the question about the best exercises for golf.

The Best Exercises for Golf

Let’s say you walk into your local health club and see all the fancy machines and aerobic machines at the facility to get you shape. What ones would choose? Would you choose running on the treadmill for 30 minutes, or would it be better to push out a couple sets of bench presses? Well, the answer to our question really lies within the connection between your swing and your body.

I will tell you that exercises meant to “pump you up!” or give you that “six pack” are not necessarily the correct exercises for your golf game. Neither is that weight training program you used back in high school. So, with those thoughts in mind what do you think the best exercises for golf are?

Right now we know, in general terms about the golf swing, what is required of the body for the golf swing and what exercises are not good for the swing. Armed with that knowledge we can decipher what the best exercises for golf are for you.

Beginning with flexibility, we know that the entire body must move through certain ranges of motion to perform an effective golf swing. And what happens if your body is not able to move through the required ranges of motion of the golf swing? The answer: the golf swing will mechanically suffer resulting in shots that are less than optimal. So part of the exercises that are good for golfers are flexibility exercises and, even more so, flexibility exercises that work the muscles used in the golf swing through the movements involved in the golf swing. So first and foremost flexibility exercises should be on the top of your list.

The second category of exercises that would be conducive to the golf swing would have to do with balance. We hear about balance in reference to the golf swing all the time. “Stay balanced through the swing; transfer your weight to maintain balance during the swing…” But what does balance exactly mean? Balance is the ability to control your body through a specific movement pattern. The movement pattern we are discussing just happens to be the golf swing. We know the importance of balance in relation to the golf swing, so how do we train our body for better balance in the golf swing? Before we answer that question we need to know a little more about balance. Balance in relation to the body has to do with the connection between your nerves and muscles. Essentially your nervous system, as a result of messages sent from your brain, tells your muscles how to move to maintain the body’s balance. The more efficient your nerves and muscles are to these messages the greater balance abilities the body develops. So balance exercises train both the nervous system and muscular system to become more efficient at this function. Summing it all up, balance is the second category of exercises that will assist your golf game.

The third category of exercises that are beneficial to golf have to do with your muscles. The golf swing requires the muscles of your body to move through a specific range of motion (flexibility) and help with your balance capacities. In order to perform these actions and others, your body needs certain levels of strength and endurance. The definition of strength is the ability of the muscles to exert force for the given “athletic action” (simplified definition but a good working definition for us). Endurance is the ability of your muscles to do the same activity over and over again for a specific amount of time.

First off, let us discuss strength. The golf swing has one intention of developing club head speed while maintaining balance through the swing. The muscles in your body must have enough strength in them to do both. Now, when we discuss building strength for the golf swing it is NOT the type of strength needed to bench press 250 lbs. Or squat 500! It is strength geared towards the improvement of your swing. I refer to this type of strength as “golf strength.” So when you get to the gym, performing strength exercises like bench press will not help your swing. Exercises that train the body in the positions and through the movements of the golf swing will help your swing.

In addition to strength, we need to develop endurance in your muscles. Think of how many swings you may take over the course of 18 holes. In order for you to be able to swing the club the same way on the 18th hole as you did on the 1st hole. Your body has to have high levels of endurance. This will allow your body to perform the golf swing without getting tired. You develop endurance similar to how you develop “golf strength.” Utilize exercises that train the body in the positions and through the movements of the golf swing. Lighter loads with higher repetitions will be used for these exercises. The end result will be the development of “golf endurance.”

The final segment of exercises beneficial to your golf swing is power training. Power training is geared towards the ability of your body to generate high levels of club head speed. Power development by the body is what allows for greater distance on your shots. Clubs help, golf balls help, but it really comes down to the piece of machinery, your body, swinging those club and hitting those golf balls. Development of power for the golf swing is very similar to the development of “golf strength and endurance.” It is the utilization of exercises that place your body in the positions and move you through movements similar to the golf swing.

Summary

So there you have it, the answer to the types of exercises best for the improvement of your golf swing. I think you now realize it is not one exercise, but a group of exercises that incorporate flexibility, balance, endurance, strength, and power. A combination of these exercises is what will enhance your golf swing.

Sean Cochran is one of the most recognized golf fitness instructors in the world today. He travels the PGA Tour regularly with 2004 Masters Champion Phil Mickelson. To learn more about Sean and his golf fitness progams go to http://www.seancochran.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Cochran

Golf Workouts Will Increase Your Golf Swing Speed and Distance

November 2009

I'm sure by now you've heard most of the professional players; both men and women actively participate in golf workouts. It's no secret. But why then do most amateur golfers ignore this? Is it because it seems like work? Or, does the thought of actually breaking a sweat get you tired already?

Vijay Singh Does Golf Workouts

Either way...the proof is in the bag. The number one player in the world, Vijay Singh, does his golf workouts all the way through Sunday of each tournament. Does it look like it's hurting his game? I don't think so. Back in 1997, a young, very athletic golfer came on the professional scene and blew everyone away. I think you know who I'm talking about.

Tiger Woods Golf Workout Routine

Tiger took golf to another level. A real eye-opener for the veteran players who were hitting the 19th hole after every round...and the last thought on their mind was "exercise". What a wake-up call to be totally dominated by a player who was only 20 years old at the time.

Annika Sorenstam Credits Her Golf Exercises

How about the year Annika Sorenstam shot a 59 and totally dominated the LPGA? Do you know what she attributes it to? Golf workouts! She hired a trainer and got serious about her fitness. And look what happened? She hasn't looked back since. She just recently came out with an instruction book and devoted a chapter to golf workouts.

To my recollection, that's the first women's instruction book to include golf workouts. Working out to playing better golf isn't just for the guys; Annika has proved that. Now more LPGA players are working out to try and catch her, just like the guys did with Tiger.

Senior Golfers Now Do Golf Fitness Programs

How about the senior tour? Now players are realizing they can still make good money, even after they've turned 50 and can't really compete with the young guys anymore. With the money at stake, they too are all working out. This group of players both amateur and pro is the biggest demographic that needs it the most.

With age comes a decline in both flexibility and strength. When the body declines, the swing goes right along with it. The result is a big loss in yardage, more mishits, and ballooning scores. The end result...frustration! I can't tell you how many times I've played with and received phone calls from older golfers who are just about ready to quit the game.

They are SO frustrated at this rapid decline, that golf's not fun anymore. But there is hope. The answer? Get your body moving just a little better. How? By participating in workouts for golf program that focuses on golf-specific strength AND flexibility. It's amazing to see golfers in this age bracket dramatically improve their driving distance, accuracy and scores.

You don't have to accept that with age, your body declines. No way! You've got to fight it all the way! I'm dead serious. The ones who do, are the ones who are enjoying the game again and taking all the money in their foursome.

What Is A Golf Workout

What is a golf workout anyways? Is there such a thing? You bet there is. The golf swing is an awkward movement that puts a tremendous amount of stress on the body. To prevent injury and improve swing speed and distance requires your body to be both strong and flexible specific to the swing.

I could spend dozens of pages describing what this entails, but for the sake of this concise article, let's keep it simple.

Golf Is Rotational

The golf swing is a rotational movement, with your body in golf posture. Slight flex of the knees and a bending forward at the hips. Since the golf swing is primarily rotational, wouldn't it make sense to focus on rotational strength and flexibility? That is improving your turning ability related to range of motion and speed.

So anything involving twisting with resistance such as a medicine ball, a dumbbell, or even a weighted club would work. You need to have a resistance to take your body beyond where it normally goes.

For instance, if you took a club and placed it behind your neck, got in your golf posture and rotated back and forth; do you think that by itself would improve your range of motion or power?

Use A Weighted Golf Club

No, you need to add resistance to accomplish this. Take a weighted club and make golf swings. Now you'll be making a bigger turn AND improving your power. Same thing with a medicine ball. Make turns back and through holding a 4 to 6 pound ball and you'll see a BIG improvement.

In fact, most of your abdominal work should be rotational. Doing straight crunches won't improve your driving distance. Doing rotational movements with added weight will. This is where I could go on and on, but I won't overload you.

Golf Workouts Will Transform Your Golf Swing

I hope I've convinced you to take a real serious look at what all the other successful professional players are doing to stay at the top of their game. Doing golf workouts can and will dramatically change your game forever. Now get out there and get it started. No procrastinating. Do it right now!

Do you want to discover the secret to creating more power and consistency in your golf swing... and eliminating ALL your swing faults?

Download this: performbettergolf.com/free-golf-ebook.html

Mike Pedersen helps golfers' improve their golf swing power, consistency and golf swing faults by addressing the physical limitations in their golf swing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Pedersen

Nothing Major

November 2009

I recently received the book Nothing Major from Bob Cayne, who has been involved with golf for over six decades.

Bob has been the General Chairman of the World Championship of Women's golf, organized and promoted PGA Senior Tour events and the Women's Western Amateur Championship, co-hosted the weekly radio show "Talking Golf" and served as marketing consultant to several golf industry clients.

He has compiled a great deal of humorous and interesting stories about himself, his friends, and the many famous PGA and LPGA Professionals he met along the way. The book is a quick read and provides a lot of old school golf stories that were nice to learn.

Here are a few of the radio spots he used to promote his show.

"This is Chi Chi Rodriguez. Every Saturday morning I tune into my radio with "Talking Golf" with George Sweda and Bob Cayne. Then I go out and hit golf balls until the show is over.

This is Raymond Floyd. I used to think the worst thing I could hear was "You've missed the cut." Then I heard "Talking Golf" with George Sweda and Bob Cayne.

Order your copy today at Nothing Major.

New book

November 2009

Win a free copy at Armchair Golf Blog.

Most golf courses per capita

November 2009

I was just reading a golf article on http://espn.go.com/golf/ and came across the following fact:
Countries with the most courses per capita (minimum 500,000 population):
Scotland (9,379 people per course);
New Zealand (10,374);
Australia (11,063);
Republic of Ireland (14,127);
Northern Ireland (14,353);
Canada (15,480);
Wales (18,321);
United States (18,514);
Sweden (21,295);
England (27,725).

I know Tasmania is not a country, but it does have over 500 000 people (just). For that population it has a wapping 75 golf courses resulting in a per capita ratio of around 6666 people per golf course.

That's way lower than the leading country, Scotland, and a lot lower than the overall Australian rate.

News and Notes

November 2009

• Tiger won the Australian Open for his first tournament victory ever down under. He also had another first when he flung his driver into the gallery. It would be interesting to see if the various tours publicly reported fines for throwing clubs and cursing, etc. Tiger would be in first place in another category.
  
• Michelle Wie finally got her first win which is great news for the LPGA Tour. This will give her a lot of confidence and momentum moving to the Tour Championship this week and for 2010.
  
• David Duval lost his card but should be fine anyway. He still has exemptions into the Masters and U.S. Open and will get hooked up through the connections he has made over the past decade.
  
• Rich Beem spent his time at the 19th hole after his final round at Disney sweating out making the top 125. According to Golf.com reports, he took down a couple beers and shots to relieve the stress. He made it though so he is good for 2010.
  
• Tom Watson, coming off his performance at the British Open at Turnberry, has been given a 5 year exemption to play in the tournament. We will see him in 2010 at St. Andrews.
• Rory Mcllroy has announced he will play the PGA tour in 2010. Look for him to have a huge season and possibly hit top 5 in the world.
  

Big winners of the week

November 2009

Wie gets first LPGA victory in Mexico.

Tiger wins the gold jacket in Australia.


Wie photo - AP / Miguel Tovar
Woods photo - AP / Rob Griffith

Tom Clasby: Golf Magazine Panelist of the Year

November 2009

The following was published on Golf.com on October 10, 2009. Nice article, but Tom broke the cardinal rule. And people think I'm obsessive!

By Joe Passov, Senior Editor, Golf Magazine.

Call it a hobby, a passion, or even a quest. GOLF Magazine is fortunate to boast no fewer than 12 Panelists who have played at least one version of the Top 100 Courses in the World. In the case of Panelist Tom Clasby, however, it's more accurate to label it an obsession. At least that's what his wife calls it.

In early 2009, Clasby knocked off Singapore Island Country Club, Malaysia's Royal Selangor Golf Club, Taiwan Golf Club and Wack Wack Golf Club in the Philippines. In doing so, Clasby became the only man in history to play every course that's ever appeared on any GOLF Magazine ranking list since the lists first appeared in 1979. Opinion is divided as to whether we should reward Clasby with a silver plaque or a session with a shrink. Either way, his accomplishment is remarkable. Understandably, the journey hasn't been without its perils. However, the affable 58-year-old Southern Californian takes it in stride.

"I started my quest 20 years ago," says Clasby. "My first wife didn't get it. My second wife got it." These days, Clasby takes his wife and 11-year-old son on as many excursions as possible. His job as an engineering business development consultant and his Olympic Club membership have provided Clasby with flexibility and access, but most of his conquests are born of sheer will — and boatloads of networking. He estimates he's flown 280,000 miles and spent roughly $230,000 to play them all. In the psycho-travel department, perhaps his 1999 trip to play Japan's Naruo C.C. stands alone: He left for Japan from L.A. on a Wednesday at noon and was back in L.A. on Friday at noon. Another nightmare itinerary took him to play Ireland's Old Head, South Africa's Durban Country Club and New Zealand's Paraparumu — in one trip. It amounted to 55 hours of flying in eight days, ten flights on five different carriers.

In all of this, Clasby is the perfect dinner companion, conversant on a wide variety of topics. Most of the "Clasbys" of the world are pretty one-dimensional. Not this Clasby. He's also visited 52 baseball parks in the U.S., sports real estate and professional engineering licenses and has successfully completed an Ironman Triathlon.

Best moment on a Top 100 course? "Getting engaged to my wonderful wife Ginger on the 18th tee box at Pebble Beach in 1993 was one of my all-time highlights." Toughest course to get onto? "Augusta National, by far! I got on because I was lucky enough to work the Masters as a forecaddie, which is almost equally impossible to playing the course itself. Some of the nicest, most understanding people helped, but it took five long years of begging and hounding everyone I ever met to get to these people." Courses he would not need to see again? "Royal Durban, which was surely mistaken for Durban Country Club in the early listing, and Marbella in southern Spain."

So what keeps Clasby going? We've got a dozen new courses on our World and U.S. Top 100 lists, so he's got a few trips to make to stay current. Kudos to Clasby, however: He's already played nine of them. Hey, what can you say — he's obsessed — and he's a great panelist.

In non related Tiger news......

November 2009

Anthony Kim won a million bucks at the Kiwi Challenge in New Zealand by beating Sean O'Hair in a playoff. Hunter Mahan placed third and Camillo Villegas fourth in the tournament for players under 30.


The final round of the Fall series kicks off Thursday at Disney giving the players one final shot to secure their card for next year. David Duval is right on the bubble, and unfortunately shot 76 in the first round which jeopardizes his chances immensely. Definitely amazing that he was so close to winning the U.S. Open this year and still might not secure his card for next year.

Center of Attention

November 2009

In shocking and surprising golf news, Tiger Woods is the center of attention at the JB Were Masters in Australia.

AP photos / Rob Griffith

So far, it's been a typical week for Tiger.

• 3 million dollar appearance fee
• attending gala dinners
• having TV network helicopters swarm overhead during his practice rounds
• having the entire tournament sold out
• having every hole he plays surrounded by spectators
• shooting an opening round 66 to be tied for the lead

Water Savings Hard Data

November 2009

The water issues at The Rim have been a common topic each summer for many years. There has been some changes in the where we have gotten water in the past and how we get it now. In the past there were well on site that used to supply us with some water and now we rely on the sanitary department for our water. These past years have left the range and the rough of the golf course thin and in some areas dead from lack of water.

The past two years have been different. We have been able to make it through the summer with the range in tact and the golf course healthy. We did a large reassignment in the computer to get the computer and the field on the same page with water usage. We also made hundreds of head adjustments along the perimeter to correct alignment so all the water being applied is being used efficiently with as little over spray as possible.

The next step was balancing the irrigation system. Many people like to say they do this each winter by reseting their system and adjusting from that point on but unfortunately that is only part of the balancing process. The way we make adjustments from that point on is a major portion of the balancing. This is where we have succeeded in saving water and being more efficient.

This chart shows the average water use from 1999-2008 and our last year to date water usage. You can see the extra use during monsoon season because of the lack of monsoon moisture. If we had a normal monsoon season you would see even more savings.

The average water usage for the past nine years has shown our savings over all. We have tried to keep the course firm and dry with some off color areas. The soil media that supports the grass is made up of mostly organic matter (thatch). Growing grass in thatch is very difficult. There is not much between too dry and wet. Our aerification process and additional sand topdressing will begin to alleviate this issue.

2009 is on track to be the smallest amount of water received from the sanitary district. Not only did we have the lack of rain but, we are also looking at the population of Payson being much smaller. Less people using water, equals less reuse for the courses.

We are on the right track to keep saving water and begin to have consecutive years of healthy grass. This will help the turf stand get thicker and healthier. Over time with sound cultural practices and proper irrigation management the course will get better year after year and produce better and better playing conditions.

I have mentioned quite a bit about our water management process and I will be presenting our practices at the GCSAA show in 2010. We are always trying new ways to save even more water. Our next procedure that I will present to the greens committee will be the idea of removing some turf to help save even more water. Essentially this is our BMP program. A combination of practices to save water.

If anyone has questions about our processes or anything about irrigation please contact me.

justinr@therimgolfclub.org

Golf Lesson #3, Proper grip.

November 2009

All too often I find golfers with grips that are way too strong. In my professional opinion, a proper golf grip is considered a very weak grip by most standards. I call it neutral. I also prefer that beginning golfers start with a neutral grip. This allows beginners to develop proper releasing as they practice, while learning how to control their wrists during the swing. Ideally there is little rotation of the hands through impact.

I have seen too many golfers with strong grips rely on that strong position to release the club for them, which usually results in a weak left to right shot. Or if they decide to release the club, it results in a fast moving snap hook. A proper release allows so much more power to transfer to the ball.

So, lets construct a neutral grip:

Step 1: Place your left hand on the grip. The most important part of the grip is actually holding on to the club. Some of you might laugh at that, but you would be surprised at how many people let go of the club while they swing.

Make sure that there is about 1/4 in. to 1/3 in. spacing between the butt of the club and where the palm of your left hand is placed. Always keep your left palm on the grip, "NOT" hanging off the edge. Hanging your hand off the end of the grip cause your gloves to tare quicker and you don't have all of your hand on the club which can cause re-gripping during the back swing.


Step 2: Place the thumb on top of the grip. Imagine if there was a line drawn down the middle of the grip. Your thumb would be placed ever so slightly to the left. This is the key to starting a neutral grip. Most amateurs roll their left hand over to far to the left creating an overly strong grip which reduces wrist mobility. Step 3: place your right hand on top of your left hand. A very easy way to know if your hand is in the correct spot is to notice the path of your "life line" on your right hand, and place it directly over your left thumb. You will notice that your left thumb fits very snug with the inside of your right hand. You should be able to see at least two full knuckles on your right hand when you look down. Most amateurs roll this hand too far under the grip. A right hand too far under can cause a very hard hook if it becomes active during the impact zone. Take notice of the "V" formed by the top hand. It bi-sects the grip right down the middle. This is a sure sign of a neutral grip.
Step 4: Interlock, overlap or ten finger are all great methods. To each their own. I happen to have the hands of an ape, so I prefer overlap. If you have smaller hands, interlock might feel more secure. Be sure to grip the club lightly. if you ever see white knuckles, that is a sure sign of gripping it too hard. My favorite saying is, "it is like holding a tube of tooth paste, firm enough to hold it but soft enough to not squeeze any paste out." If you put a good jerk on my club while it was in my hands, it would come right out.

If you try this grip, and you are more accustomed to a stronger grip, this grip will feel very weak. It will feel very uncomfortable too. It will give you the sense that you couldn't hit the ball and that you couldn't give a good lash at the ball. This feeling will go away after time.

If you naturally hit the ball left, this grip will straighten you out very quickly. This is because you already have an active release during the swing. If you slice the ball, this grip will still slice the ball. If this is the case, you will need to start practicing on releasing the club through the impact zone because you have probably ingrained a "holding off" motion through impact and a you have relied on a strong grip to straighten the face out during impact. If this is the case, call me, and I'll get you figured out.

November 2009

TRIAM

Saturday, 14th November

11.00 E Gray - R Fraser - D Grant

11.07 D Gordon - B McGowan - L Duncan

11.15 S Schofield - B Jackson - G McLuskey

11.22 B Groom - J Groom - S Fenner

11.30 M Robertson - S Robertson - I Taylor

11.37 G Hunter - M Hunter - T Ogg

11.45 M Tinker - R Tinker - D Tinker

11.52 R Michie - DJ Alexander - DM Alexander

12.00 F Johnston - B Johnston - G Allardice

12.07 K Finlay - E Ralston - A Grewar

Apologies to those of you who have been resited in order to make numbers even.

Gents - 3/4 handicap

Ladies - Handicap +1 then 3/4

Everyone plays off ladies par and stroke index.

Fall Fertilization Application

November 2009

We have applied our fall fertilizer application to the golf course. We used a 50/50 organic synthetic mix that we applied wall to wall. The green banks and tees complexes along with a pass around all bunkers was done with rotary walk spreaders while the bulk of the golf course was covered by the vicon.

This application is integral in getting the course jump started next season. Turfgrass management 101 states that a majority of your nitrogen should be applied in the fall. Not only will this application give the plant the extra carbohydrates it needs to store over the winter but will add to the color and vigor of next season. Here is a link to another course explaining their fall application. http://chrislecour.blogspot.com/2009/09/late-summer-and-fall-fertilization.html

When I first arrived on the property the main complaint we had when the course was not in threat of disease was the pocketing around the greens in the rough. We discovered that this was from insect damage but to take care of the problem once the insects were controlled was proper fertility. Fall applications helped the course fill in quickly once the weather warmed in the spring.

Fertility is an important factor when maintaining the golf course. We have the greens tested regularly to ensure proper fertility is accomplished. With the greens being sand based, nutrition can become deficient easily and quickly relative to a soil based system. The fairways and tees are tested annually on the same holes to ensure nothing gets out of control. With our lack of good growing media and our abundance of thatch we are growing grass in a unique situation.

Decisions made on fertility of the golf course course can be just as important as planning your plant protection program. Even though the fertilizer we have applied will do little for color or growth now the pay off will come in the spring when healthy grass will green up quicker and be more vigorous. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Justin Ruiz, CGCS

justinr@therimgolfclub.org

The damage ...

November 2009

The tally so far ....

Holes	Courses	Completed	Par	Score	To Par	$ spent
63	4	5%	233	253	+20	$113

This round goes to Mickelson

November 2009

It wasn't the showdown that everyone was hoping for, but it was interesting to say the least. Both Mickelson and Tiger made some serious miscues in the final round of the HSBC World Golf Championship in Shanghai that they don't normally make.

Phil missed a few short putts, had a really bad 3-putt, was wayward with the driver for most of the the day, and even whiffed a flop shot. He did make a great par save on 16 and a nice birdie on 17 to seal the tournament. He finished with a final round 69 and ended up at 17 under.


Tiger missed several short putts, had a really bad 3-putt as well, yanked an iron into the water, hit a fairway bunker shot with a plugged lie about five feet, and chunked a flop shot into a bunker. He was four over through seven but was able to make five birdies from there to finish with an even par round of 72, good enough for 6th place at 12 under.

The nerves must have gotten to them all. In one five minute stretch, Els dumped his 5 wood into the middle of the lake on 18. On hole 16, Watney hit a very poor chip from the rough, Mickelson whiffed his flop, and Woods chunked his flop into a bunker. Amazing to see the top players in the world all hit poor shots like that in a row.

Regardless, it was still an exiting tournament to watch. Mickelson ends his 2009 season on a high note with his fourth win. Tiger will be taking his game to the Australian Masters starting on Thursday in Melbourne.

It's almost a certainty that these two will be going head to head a lot in 2010.

2009 HSBC World Golf Championship - Full photo galleries and recap

AP Photos / Andy Wong

Course Work

November 2009

The three years that I have been at The Rim Golf Club I have dealt with many challenges. The first major challenge that has plagued the golf course has been water. The second was disease and insect pressure and as we peeled away these issues, we are now dealing with bunker contamination and drive off path deterioration.

The water problem has been addressed in earlier posts and how we have dealt with that issue. I will have much more information in a near future post to show the hard data on water savings over the past few years. I am completing my presentation for a BMP plan for water conservation for The Rim which will potentially give us a guideline to continue to save more water each season.

The disease and insect pressure has been discussed in detail as well. Two years ago we created an IPM plan for outlining a combination of approaches to monitor, and control insect and disease pressure. Not only have we been successful in our efforts but we continue to grow our IPM plan and eventually introduce more biological control and begin to move away from synthetic pesticides.

To make a long story short we have made large advancements in what I have always deemed the core of golf course management. Playability and presentation. These two attributes go hand in hand by complimenting one and other. When I first got to the property both were suffering and the course was in a downward spiral with the grass being under every kind of pressure you could imagine. Heat and drought stress, insect and disease pressure and excessive thatch. We have been able to reduce some of the stresses through water management and preventative plant protection applications.

So that brings us to now a sigh of relief when we talk about getting to the drive off's and the bunkers. Our efforts can be better directed to getting these areas better. We have finished the bunker work which has given us consistent depths across each bunker for better playability. We are looking at better ways to get sustainable cart exits from the turf.

The root of the problem in our bunkers was the lack of lining when the bunkers were reconstructed. We have revealed that all the renovated bunkers are not completely lined. They were lined on only faces or the steepest part of the bunker which helps that area hold sand during the rain, but this does not aid in keeping rocks from surfacing from the underlying decomposed granite.

We are trying to get the Nolte sand cleaner into the bunkers when we stop water around the bunkers. The machine is relatively effective in removing rocks off of the top 2-3 inches. The inevitable truth is that the rock will continue to come back from underneath. This process will at least give us some temporary playability. We will also try to couple this with back pack blowing the rocks off of the surface into a pile and removing with a shovel. Both processes are both a temporary fixes until the bunkers are ultimately renovated and lined properly.

The Drive offs around the course are definitely a tough fix. We have tried many ways to get the paths to hold up to cart traffic but they have all failed and the paths have gradually gotten worse. I am looking into a soil stabilizer or mixing cement into the top few inches of the granite to see if we can get better stability.

We are trying what we can for the issues on our course. That is what makes this job interesting and fun. Problem solving is rewarding when you can figure out the solution. So far we have done a great job with insects and water. We will find the solution to the bunkers and the drive offs. We just haven't discovered the best fix.