Smokin' Joe's Blog!

March 8, 2010

The young guns have awoken.  Camilo and Kim stepped up at the Honda Classic and gave the golf world hope and inspiration.  Camilo playing at home got it -15 under and was in cruise control till some unexpected hiccups on the back nine.  Still these two give us hope that someone will be Tiger hunting when he returns to the golf world.  Still is it me or do we want something more?  Watching the Honda yesterday was watching these guys trying not to throw up on the course.  VJ missing putts, Green playing in the water and even Camilo giving back strokes and keeping us on the edge or our seats as he entered the Bear Trap.

What we need is couple of golfers to strap on the confidence and small amount of arrogance and take command.  What we love about Tiger is the killer instinct, never give up attitude and the unbelievable shots that enable him to take charge and the rest of the field to step out of the way.  There were no load roars of passion from the crowds after unbelievable shots – just moans of agony and despair for greatness.  Hockey got I huge kick out of the Olympics and golf needs that shot of adrenalin right now.  Let’s go Phil, Rory, Fowler, Els and VJ – let’s make something happen out there.

We are coming down the home stretch to the Shell Houston Open and the Masters.  There have been Tiger sightings at the range and building hope that the return is sooner rather than later.  But golf cannot expect Tiger to put the game on his back and carry it.  Golf needs competition, personality, excitement and needs it every week.  Maybe this is why we hope for the return of Daly and Duvall.

Join us on the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range this Saturday at 7 am on Sports Radio 610 as Brett Nutt the head pro at the Redstone Tournament Course will be teeing it up with us.

Squeeze it Easy! 

Smokin Joe


March 1, 2010

As the golf TV soap tour spins the gossip and the news is delightful.  What was golf like before sex scandals, reality shows and 300 yard drives?  I know it was not that long ago but it seems like ages. 

Let’s begin with the Tiger Show – another big hit from the financial world as Gatorade has pulled their $20 million endorsement deal with Tiger.  With a quick statement on Friday -- “We no longer see a role for Tiger in our marketing efforts and have ended our relationship,” a Gatorade spokeswoman said. “We wish him all the best.”  the relationship was over.  Much like Tiger’s statement the week prior there was no question and answer period with Tiger.

Golf Channel tees up two new reality shows beginning today with the new Hank Haney project – Ray Romano.  This should be more entertaining than Barkley as Ray is a comedian and does have a golf swing that one can actually look at without falling over in laughter.  I mean Charles looks like he is having a seizure with his swing – which is interesting because his practice swings look somewhat fluid and nice.

Then tomorrow night it’s underwear endorsing Long John back on the Golf Channel.  Not sure why but getting a dose of Daly every week sounds intriguing and entertaining.  The promos for the show have caught the eye and I will be tuning in tomorrow night as John tees it up with the Golf Channel. 

Worst case scenario with both Golf Channel reality shows is something to chat about on the driving range this Saturday.  One of the key comments will be the stud rookies afraid to take a risk and win a golf tournament.  First it was Michael Sim at San Diego not going for the eagle opportunity on 18 and chance to leap frog Ben Crane for the win.  Now at the Phoenix Open Rickie Fowler – who can hit it a mile does not go for the eagle on the 15th hole that could have earned his first tour win and did earn the searing remarks from Brandell Chamblee for laying up.  Go for it!  it’s what the fans want to see.  Do you think the 25,000 arena rocking fans on the 16th hole at the Phoenix Open want to see the safe shot – heck no!  they want to see people throwing pin hunting darts at the green.   So as John Daly made famous, “Grip it and Rip it!”  rookies. 

Enough ramble for another bad weather start to the week.  tune in Saturday with John Saffle from the Traditions Club in College Station/Bryan and Eric Claxton from Wolfdancer Golf Course at the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop stop by the range this Saturday to chat about their courses and upcoming events.  Plus we will be giving away another Shell Houston Open Golf Nut package and the only way to win is to tune in and have fun.

Have a great week and we’ll see you on Sports Radio 610.

Squeeze it Easy!
 

February 23, 2010

California dreaming as I watched the AT&T Championship with four beautiful chamber of commerce days of competition and celebrity fun.  But the big dream was reality – David Duval in the hunt on the last day of a PGA Tournament and finished with the possibility of being in a playoff.  This is one great shot in the arm for the PGA – the return of David Duval.  Ten years ago David was on top of the world and on top of his game.  He was finishing the Bob Hope with a final round 59.  He was a stud on the golf course.

Then something went terribly wrong.  The swing and the confidence were gone.  The world ranking sank to the world pits.  There was no David Duval sightings on any leaderboard and it was easier to look at the bottom of the page to find his name.  Then came marriage, children and a new found desire to play on the tour – not as a memory but as a real competitive threat.  And all of us golf nuts thought/prayed for his return.  But the hope was shattered with army golf – right/left/right/left and another missed cut.

Fast forward to Bethpage Park last summer and there was David Duval on the top of the leader board and a PGA tournament – no at the US Open.  Drives were in the fairways, iron shots were crisp and taking dead aim at the pins to set up big putts that were finding the bottom of the cups.  The golf gods were definitely smiling. 

Now we have four days of Duval golf at Pebble Beach – is this dream for real?  This week the PGA Tour goes south to Mexico and we’ll find out if David is back, can he put in another great week of competitive play and be a threat on the final day?  is this the Duval that was a major hassle for a young tiger years ago.  Oh would it not be nice to have David back for good in a year that is way over done with groovegate and tiger sex.  Can we even hope to see him once again challenge at a Major – which one would you like to see?  The Masters, US Open (at Pebble Beach where he just had a great week), British Open (his only major victory) or the PGA Championship – my pick is any one of them. 

Now if only the demons would leave John Daly alone and let his competitive fire burn bright once more.  It would be pretty cool to see Dally and Duval prowling the grounds at Redstone looking for an invite to the Masters with a SHO win.

Mark Button from Houston Links magazine stops by Smokin Joe’s Driving Range this Saturday, plus your chance to win a Shell Houston Open Golf Nut package.

See you on Sports Radio 610 – 7 to 8 am Saturday.   let me know what’s going on in your golf world – my email is below.

Squeeze it Easy!
 

Stricker is the all around good guy from Wisconsin, the Saints represent a city based on hope after a catastrophic hurricane five years ago left the entire town on life support.  Interestingly enough it was five years ago that Stricker had lost hope in his game and went home to Wisconsin to hit balls out of three sided shed in the depths of the frozen winter.  It was there he found hope, faith and the will to return to the game he loved.  Fast forward and he is now the #2 ranked golfer in the world.

Who Dat?  Can a championship football team do for New Orleans what a shed in the frozen tundra did for Stricker?  I hope so and I think I echo the emotions of an entire gulf coast.  New Orleans is special for many reasons --- from the French Quarter to the famous food, from Mardi Gras to the home of numerous Super Bowls, from a Cajun style of music to a carefree style of living.  Yes, America needs New Orleans and they need us.  It might only be a football game, but to thousands of Saints fans it is a moment of hope, faith and excitement. 

Who Dat?  It’s a wave of positive momentum growing on shores of the Gulf of Mexico and I for one will ride the wave as long as it will let me.

See you on the driving range Saturday morning at 7 am on Sports Radio 610 – tell your friends.  


February 2, 2010
 
You want controversy just look what came out of the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in San Diego.  This is the sight of so many great golf moments like the 2008 US Open battle between Tiger and Rocco.  But this year the excitement was not contained to the golf course, it was all over the place.  Yes, there was fireworks on the course but they were duds to what happened off the course.
 
Let’s recap the soap opera.  First of all John Daly announces he is quitting golf.  After two more unimpressive rounds of golf, Long John told the Golf Channel I’m done.  Whoa there John boy, did you say you were done on national TV?   According to the sound bites that was the story in a nutshell.  Common sense took over as John and the Daly team tried to amend his comments by tweeting he was frustrated, tired and just playing bad.  I’m not quitting I just need some time to mend and get the mental game back in gear was now the spin.  Well John, let’s get this straight, the  golf fans of the world are tired of the antics and just want to see you on the leader board.  We don’t expect wins every week, we just want the hope that you are in the hunt.  Forget the off course activities and get your act together and play golf.  The powers that be are getting tired of the Daly bull crap and giving you sponsor exemptions.  The crowds are no longer justification for your entry into the tournaments, it’s gotten old.  We want to see you grip it and rip it, show off the soft hands around the greens that have earned two majors and play good golf.  Time is running out John and we would really like to see one last run.
 
Scott McCarron should probably try using the Ping 2 wedges that are legal under the USGA ruling.  There is no cheating going on by anyone.  If the USGA created a loophole in the ruling on square grooves take it up with them.  Claiming that Phil Mickelson and others that are using the Ping 2 wedges is cheating is sour grapes coming from the scorer’s tent as you missed another cut.  Square grooves do not create wins.  Talent wins tournaments.  Last time I looked Phil was having trouble keeping the ball in play, not sticking it close with illegal clubs and walking off with a win.  Get a life and a golf game Scott and quit bitching.
 
As for the action on the course, the young studs showed promise.  Rickie Fowler and Michael Sim showed their gawd given talent finally and made runs at Ben Crane.  But Michael this is the big picture and not going for it on the 18th hole in the last round of the tournament showed no competitive fire.  If Michael would have gone for the green on the second shot and put it on the green don’t you think Ben Crane would have felt the pressure?  Sim would have only needed two putts to get to -13 and put all the pressure on Crane to birdie.  But no, Sim laid up and took the safe route.  Yes, I’ve heard that the pro’s can stick a wedge in there tight and the decision would have been exciting.  But it didn’t happen.  Next time Sim go for it – make the green or not all of the golf world would have loved the decision.
 
Now it’s on to LA and the treasured Riviera Course at the Northern Trust Open.  Another exciting week of pro golf and the emergence of young Anthony Kim back in competition to re-launch the career we missed last year and had so much hope after the 2008 season.   How did young Anthony prepare for the week?  How about a guest appearance on the Leno show giving a putting demonstration.  The PGA Tour – you gotta love these guys.
 
Larry Dierker will be joining us this Saturday on the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range at 7 am Saturday.
 
We will see you on the radio.
 
Smokin Joe
 

January 25, 2010

The world of golf continued its strange and winding road since the last time I wrote.  During the break, the tiger update is that he’s in rehab in Mississippi and I say this is the best thing he’s done to date.  yes, I’ve heard the snickers from men and women joking that if they had an addiction wouldn’t sex be the best.   wrong!  Dead wrong!  Having fought my own demons and spending seven weeks in rehab 22 years ago and I’m proud that I admitted my problems and did something about it.  I’m not looking for pats on the back because I’m far from perfect.  But addiction causes loss of money, family, respect and even life.

The demon that makes the hunger for that short high or rush is so strong that individuals will sacrifice everything for one more high.  Sex is the same with the demon – individuals that want to feel that rush for one more time.  get to that level of excitement through the drug of their choice.  Some it’s alcohol, cocaine or gambling.  For Tiger it’s sex.  I’m not the expert, but when an individual cannot be satisfied with what he has and uses endless means of money and lives in a world of lies the signs point to addiction. 

Going into rehab means Tiger has looked in the mirror and is asking questions.  Six weeks in rehab will not erase what he has done or change the media coverage.  But the first step is admitting to yourself that this is not right.  What I’m doing is not only dangerous for me as an individual but also for those that know you as spouse, family, friend or colleague.  Tiger is asking himself the questions, finding the answers will be the biggest step in getting his life back to some form of harmony and normalcy.

One word that is important is family support.  The Bob Hope Classic provided a moment of family support and pride as Bill Haas won the same tournament his father – Jay Haas – won 22 years ago.  The eighth father/son winners in PGA history.  Can you imagine  the celebration and pride in the Haas family right now?  father and son reliving every shot and knowing that the passion for golf has been successfully passed on.  I had my own family pride moment last week when my son surprised me with tickets to the US Open at Pebble Beach for the two of us on Father’s Day Weekend – my ears are hurting from the smiling with pride and I am in dream heaven about the adventure that lies ahead for my son and me.

Bringing this ramble to a close the common thread of family and golf – both having strong bonds in honesty, respect and doing the right thing. 

See you on the driving range – 7 am Saturday on Sports Radio 610.

Janaury 19, 2010

The PGA Tour returns to the mainland and one of the classic tournaments in the history books in tour camaraderie and fun – the Bob Hope Invitational in Palm Springs.  Five days of tournament play over two courses and each pro teamed with a field of amateurs – most notably the celebrities that add a whole additional level of entertainment and excitement.  Over the years Bob Hope’s passion for golf provided relief from the winter in Iowa.  I was glued to the TV seeing the blue skies, green grass and swaying palm trees. 

But it was the celebrities that added the element of fun to the broadcast.  Seeing Gerald Ford hit spectators with his errant shots,  Clint Eastwood walking the course with a Dirty Harry approach and there was Bob Hope – always the entertainer and crowd favorite.  One of my best memories was in his final years of playing in the tournament and wheeling around the course in the famous Hope golf cart and holing out from the fairway on the 18th fairway for a birdie.  The crowd went nuts and all of his playing partners were high fiving and loving the moment.  Only if I could have been a fly on the wall of the bar in the men’s locker room after the round – I’m sure that the drinks were flowing and the stories were hysterical. 

Fast forward to 2010 and we have Arnold Palmer filling in as the new ambassador for the weekend fun.  But more importantly is the passing of the torch as Arnold’s grandson, Sam Saunders earned a sponsor exemption into the tournament and will be carrying on his grandfather’s game.  This is what golf is all about, camaraderie!  I spent the MLK holiday on the golf course with my son – no one  else. Just the two of us swinging, talking and laughing for four uninterrupted hours followed by great burgers at the Roadster in Bellaire.  Memories that no one will take away from me. 

What do we learn from the Hope and playing with one’s own son?  That tour players need to loosen up and show some personality on the golf course.  I read in Golf Week magazine on how the PGA has posted signs in the players locker rooms reminding them to thank the sponsors.  Ridiculous – these guys need to be reminded that they have the best careers in the world?  Every one of them should be kissing babies, shaking hands, signing autographs, listening to their amateur playing partners in the pro am and doing whatever it takes to make the golf the best sport in the world.  Take a lesson from Bob Hope – smile, laugh and have a great time on the golf course.  Yes, you are masters of the game but now is the time to step up and be the next set of golf ambassadors and follow in the steps of Palmer, Nicklaus, Player, Watson, Hope and Crosby.  Put some personality into the game and have some fun. 

See you on the driving range – 7 am Saturday on Sports Radio 610. 
 

January 6, 2010

The smell of the 2010 PGA season is in the air as the SBS Championship tees it up in Hawaii.  As the new season begins the drama has been established for a very interesting year.  Let’s start with the top five questions

1.       Tiger Woods – how will this crazy scenario work out and when will we see Tiger prowling the fairways of another tournament win in 2010?

2.       Phil Mickelson – how great was it to see the Phil of old re-emerge last fall winning twice  and being a huge team player at the President’s Cup.  Will he take the lead this year winning another Major and become the #1 player in the world?

3.       To groove or not to groove – that will not be a question as the USGA new rules restrict the grooves on golf clubs in 2010 and beyond.  Will we see any impact or is this a case of much ado about nothing?

4.       The Woodies – the generation of PGA players now coming on the tour that grew up idolizing Tiger Woods – the game, the focus, the workout routine and the hunger to win that made him unbeatable.  Will Rickie Fowler, Anthony Kim, Hunter Haas and others step up and put their mark on the PGA Tour?

5.       Big John – not so big anymore.  John Daly has cut 100 pounds off the frame and has spent the last part of 2009 adjusting to the weight change on the golf course.  He is focused and hungry to be back in the spotlight and the golf world would love to see it.  Looking back on his career it was always those years when you least expected it that John won a major – could 2010 hold lighting in the bottle?

Sure you may have your questions as well and that is what makes golf the best sport in the world.  It’s the conversation and camaraderie that exists that makes it great.  But if the answers for these questions come back the way we would like to see them then just maybe the following will be the headlines of 2010;

1.       Tiger Woods returns to the competition at the Masters and wins his 5th Green Jacket.

2.       Phil Mickelson beats Tiger Woods in 18 hole playoff to win the US Open at Pebble Beach.

3.       Rickie Fowler picks up his 1st win on the PGA Tour at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.

4.       John Daly returns to St. Andrews and repeats his championship play from 1995 and wins his second Open Championship.

If these are four of the headlines we are in for a heckuva a PGA year.  My golf friends – may the wind be at your back, your swing as smooth as silk and every birdie putt a gimmie. 

See you on the radio.


Updated: 8/17/09

Get ready world golf is taking a big step in becoming even bigger.  First there was the announcement that golf will be recommended as a sport for the 2016 games then the shot heard round the world as YE Yang went man to man with Tiger Woods at the PGA Championship at Hazeltine and became the first Asia born golfer to win a major.  Two very significant events that will push golf to the spotlight of the world. 

Contrary to what the NFL will tell you the number one sport in the world is soccer.  But this past weekend golf took on a whole new dimension with a 37 year old south Korean lifting the Wanamaker Trophy and grinning ear to ear as the 2009 PGA Champion.  Yang did the unbelievable -- he beat Tiger Woods at his own game.  Impressive drives, dramatic shots, breath taking aggressiveness and key putts.  Yang shot a final round -2 under 70 and beat Tiger on Sunday by 5 strokes in a made for TV finale.  CBS had the be loving every moment of this show.

The four majors of 2009 are in the history book and Tigers name is not attached to any of them.  A warning to all the pro's planning on playing in the 2010 majors -- this tiger is mad, hungry and thirsty for the taste of victory.  Time will pass and before you know it the magic of spring will awaken with the gates of Augusta National opening the competition for the Masters.  I for one would not be surprised to see the golf history books of 2010 have only one name next to the four majors -- Tiger Woods.

Tune in the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range this Saturday at 7 am on Sports Radio 610 as Dr. David Cook -- author of the book Golf’s sacred journey -- 7 days at the links of Utopia will be stopping by and we’ll have more information on the free tickets for the Administaff Small Business Classic at the Woodlands TPC this October. 

Updated: 8/13/09

They are off the tee box at the final major for 2009 – the PGA Championship at Hazeltine National in Minnesota.  There are so many questions about this final major that any avid golfer is spinning in delight with the drama that will unfold over the next four days.  Can Tiger win 3 tournaments in a row?  Can Tiger win a major in 2009?  How will Phil do?  Will an unknown like Rich Beem rise up and win the championship?  Questions and more questions that make the sport of golf so great especially during a final when the drama sucks in all sports fans, even the remotest of golf fans.

There is something about the drama of the best individuals in the world competing over four days to determine one champion – no questions asked – at the end of the tournament one individual will be holding the Wanamaker Trophy.   Over the years, Hazeltine has offered up some great golf memories and been the course has been tweaked to provide even greater challenges.  The big course question this year is whether or not they will move the tees up on #14 and challenge the pro’s to drive the green?  The risk/reward segment is huge and could be a defining moment in the tournament. 

The PGA Championship is under way, a perfect time to sit back and watch the pro’s do their thing.  Tune in Saturday morning at 7 am as we discuss the progress of the Championship – who’s in and who’s out after the cut and who do we think will win?  Plus John Cannon from the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Alabama and Bryan Nagle from the Administaff Small Business Classic will be stopping by the driving range.  Grip it – rip it and play golf. 


Updated: 7/27/09

The game of golf is a funny sport.  You get into a rhythm playing your favorite course and feel like you are on top of the game.  Then take a road trip to new course and all of a sudden the rhythm is gone and you feel like you have never played before.  One more proof on how good the pro’s really are.  They arrive in town on Monday for three days to prep and get to know a golf course then tee it up for the big bucks.  With only three days of getting to know the course these guys and girls then go out and shoot 4 to 6 under par each day – truly amazing.  So the underlying lesson in this conversation is that to really improve your game add some variety to the courses that you play on a regular basis.  If that is not an option,  play the different tee boxes at your favorite course – even the red tees – to provide different lengths, set up and challenges.  You need rhythm with your swing but variety with your challenge.

Last Saturday we had a special guest on the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range with 1st Tee participant Tezira Abe joining us to chat about her upcoming trip to Pebble Beach to compete in the Wal-Mart First Tee Champions Tournament over the Labor Day Weekend.  Tezira is a 15 year old young lady with a one handicap.  This is her second trip to Pebble Beach representing the Houston First Tee program and we could not ask for a better candidate.  Hats off to Diane Overstreet with the Houston Golf Association for her time, vision and work in making the Houston First Tee program one of the best in the nation.  If you want your children to learn the game of golf, check out the First Tee Program – it is definitely worth the time.

Tune in this week to the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range as we chat with Chip Pursur with the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Alabama where he oversees the golf at the Ross Bridge Golf Resort in Birmingham.   If you are not familiar with the Alabama Robert Trent Jones Trail this will definitely get you excited and thinking about your next golf trip. 

Have a great week and remember to squeeze it easy.


Updated: 7/20/09

Thirty-two years ago it was the battle in the sun at Turnberry that went into the archives of golf history.  Two giants in the world of golf – Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus – going head to head in battle, shot for shot in competition and an emotional roller coaster for all in attendance an watching on TV.  Watson beat Nicklaus on a day that Jack said was one of his all time greatest rounds of golf. 

Fast forward to 2009 and the history books have been rattled open again by an icon in golf – Tom Watson.  This 59 year old Kansas City kid did what no one thought was possible – he took on Father Time and he won.  Stewart Cink may be holding the Claret Jug, but for millions  of senior golfer around the world Tom Watson gave us four days of inspiration, hope, fun and memories.   He jumped into the bunker of sand called time and hit one stiff at the British Open.  What were the odds of Tom Watson teeing it up on Thursday and making it to the first tee on Saturday – improbable.  What were the odds of Tom Watson making it to the final group on Sunday – impossible.  If you took either of those bets you are counting your money today. 

I for one feel refreshed by the feat of Tom Watson at the British Open this past weekend.  He showed game plan, emotion, humility and appreciation  for the game of golf and the British fans.  He didn’t hit 310 yard drives nor did he boast that he truly is one of the best with 5 British Open championships and 3 Senior British Open Championships.  Everyone expected the gas tank to run out – none of us thought it would end up on the last hole with a five foot putt that he had made look so problematic for three days.   The four hole playoff was over quickly and tears formed for what could have been.   But ever gracious Watson praised Stewart Cink, the golf course, the fans and most importantly the game itself.  This is the recipe of a champion.

Fast forward to October 2009 at the Woodlands TPC for the Small Business Classic and two icons of golf will be teeing it up.  Fred Couples will be making his debut on the Champions Tour and for the first time Tom Watson will be joining the competition.  Two great reasons for all Houstonians to plan now to be part of the audience at the Small Business Classic – this will be one for the history books.

I’ll see you on the radio this Saturday at 7 am on Sports Radio 610 when we open the Smokin Joe’s Driving Range for our weekly hour of golf updates, interviews, music and fun.  Till then squeeze it easy and have a good one.

Updated: 7/6/09

Is it rude for the host of a party to grab to be the center of attention for the entire event?  If you are Tiger Woods and you are the host of the AT&T Championships at Congressional, absolutely not.  In fact he should be showered with praise and given a standing ovation.

Playing golf as the country celebrates the birth of freedom for the USA takes on a whole new perspective when Tiger Woods is throwing the party.  The over-whelming theme at Congressional is God Bless America loud and clear.  Anyone associated with the Armed Services had a free pass for the entire tournament.  Children were welcomed with open arms and without any need for tickets.  Professional golfers took dead aim at dangerous pen placements marked with the American flag.  Patriotism never looked so good.

But our host was not done by a long shot.  He rounded up one of the best fields outside of a major or the Shell Houston Open for a weeklong bring it on competition.  The boys did not disappoint.  Look at the leader board -- VJ, Furyk, Kim, Mahan, Glover and the host.  Even the final day took special ambiance as the Tiger was in the final group with young buck Anthony Kim and CBS TV was drooling with excitement.  Just look at the stories that unraveled.

Hunter Mahan goes out early and gets into the clubhouse with the first noticeable lead -- by the way he tied the course record by shooting a lights out 62 and getting on the leader board at 12 under.  Even Tiger was trailing the tournament at the time Mahan's score was posted.

VJ showed glimpes of brillance with a final round 66, but his achilles tendon -- putting gave out on him one more time.

Lucas Glover keep the US Open pace going by getting to 7 under but the fourth day, second tournamemt in a row since the US Open and numerable media interviews took their tool on the last round with even par score.

Anthony Kim showed up but forgot to bring his A game for the biggest golf and TV opportunity in his lifetime.  Head to head against Tiger Woods on national TV -- no excuses allowed.  He responded with an early birdie to go one up on Tiger and it was downhill from there.  if they gave medals for losing the grip on your club Kim was the winner by far.  (Second place would have to go to the slow motion camera that caught his driver doing the most amazing dance as it left Kim's hands.)

At the end of the day the number 1 golfer in the world and arguably in history accepted the winners trophy.  But this party host threw one of the best 4th of July bashes I've seen and the standing ovation at the end of the day is well deserved.

Couple of notes;

Sign up for the Sports Radio 610 Golf Tournament benefitting the First Tee of Houston -- July 15th at Blackhorse.  This is going to be a great day on the golf course.

You can now connect with me on Twitter at SmokinJoeHou -- join me as in creating the best driving range group in the world.
 

Updated: 6/25/09

Commitment is just one word in the golf dictionary but it’s one of the most important words there is.  You will hear the word used  constantly by golf analysts, teachers and pros in that they commit to the shot or that they are committed to the read of their caddy.   But the best use of the word is to honor, to live up to your commitment and this week we are seeing a first class example of commitment.  2009 US Open Champion Luke Glover has been a media star since capturing the championship mid-day Monday.   Yet there he was Wednesday for the Pro-Am at the Travelers Championship living up to the commitment he made prior to wearing the title of US Open Champion.   That commitment will continue as he will also make the next three tournaments he scheduled prior to stepping up as the newest member to an elite fraternity of men in the world of golf.   Commitment – one of the best personality traits and individual can have.

The 2009 US Open is in the history books – so let’s look back at what we got from Bethpage this year. 

·         We got a strong dose of courage as Phil Mickelson fought the demons of breast cancer and came for the fifth time a runner up at the US Open.

·         We got determination from Rick Barnes to show the world that the talent everyone bragged that he had was indeed there.

·         We got fight from David Duval as he showed the form that was once the #1 golfer in the world and the hope that it’s back to stay.

·         We got inspiration from Nick Taylor the young amateur that finished tied for 36th overall.

·         We got a kick out of seeing Rocco Mediate starting off like he was still at Torrey Pines battling Tiger.

·         We got tired of seeing Tiger fighting to stay alive all over the course.

ut most importantly we got one more moment with Dick Harmon – the teacher and mentor for Lucas Glover prior to his untimely departure from this world.  Hearing his name, seeing his photo and having a US Open trophy raised in his honor was priceless. 

The 2009 US Open is history.  So now it’s time to tune up for the driving range show this Saturday on Sports Radio 610 with our guest Greg Martin – caddy for 25 years for Dan Forsman and author of the book, “Caddy Confidential”.    Smokin Joe is also going techno – sign up to be part of the range rats at Facebook and Twitter by searching Smokin Joe and clicking in  – come on and be part of the fastest growing golf group in Houston. 

I will see you Saturday at 7 am on the Sports Radio 610 dial – tell everyone in your foursome.


Updated: 6/22/09

Okay admit it – how many of you called in with the dreaded Bethpage Flu today?   You know the systems; Monday morning, empty house, sofa is wide open and the 2009 US Open due to weather has live TV coverage of the final round.  I know I was tempted but then modern technology offered relief via www.nbcsports.com live video coverage that I can watch from the comforts of my office space.  You gotta love the internet.

Speaking of the US Open – we won’t know the winner till later today and even possibly tomorrow.  But one winner has stood out – the grounds crew at Bethpage Park.  Any normal golf course in the world would have waved the white flag to mother nature and called it a day.  But working around the clock miracles this group of landscapers, mowers and water experts kept the US Open in play.  Yes there were big gaps in play and some could argue that the winner with have asterisk beside their name because this was not a normal US Open.  Baloney, the weather is part of the conditions and it takes a great player to have the patience and game to win the championship.  Do you think the fellows across the pond would be cursing the weather during the British Open?  Absolutely not!  They probably would have played through the wind, rain and mud.  It’s part of the game.

Now the leader board – how many dramas do you want?  Ricky Barnes – collegiate all star with so much game that never materialized in the lead, David Duval the former #1 player in the world that has been on a journey to Oz has found the yellow brick road back to a major leader board, Phil Mickelson with the demons of breast cancer dancing in his head and then amateur Nick Taylor putting in a respectable tournament and hanging on by the fingernails.  This is what the US Open is all about.  Excitement, drama, unknown and the game of golf.

Speaking on behalf of the entire medical profession – be very careful with the Bethpage Flu.  If you think you have any systems at all – please head home, hit the sofa and turn on the live broadcast of the US Open.  Depending on today’s result you may need to stay home tomorrow for the playoff. 

Updated: 6/15/09

The US Open week is officially here and one last contestant has made the field – Brian Gay wins the St. Jude in much the same fashion as his win at the Verizon at Harbor Town – a runaway to become a two time winner on the tour for 2009.  That incredible accomplishment punches his ticket for the US Open. 

How fitting that the US Open is the same week as Father’s Day.  It’s a week of dream making, male bounding and unbelievable golf.  To be able to watch this incredible week of competition and celebrate the awesome element of life called fatherhood is the best.  My own plans are to tune on the Tube with my son and cheer on the competition.  We will also hit the links and play our own imaginary US Open between the two of us.  It will be our version of the Mediate vs. Woods show down at Torrey Pines.

But what is really cool is the  experience  our own Captain Mickey from the Outdoor show will be living out.   As I type away  on this blog update he is walking Bethpage with his brother as they watch Shawn Stefani – the captain’s nephew and his brother’s son – compete in the 2009 US Open.  Shawn made it to Bethpage via the grueling qualifying rounds and is now living the dream.  So as you get comfortable on the sofa this Thursday – keep and eye out for Shawn and definitely keep all the good luck charms turned on for this young man and family member of Sports Radio 610. 

I’ll be back blogging on Thursday as the US Open tees off.  In the mean time, keep it in the middle and putt for dough at on the golf course.

Smokin Joe


Updated: 6/9/09

He’s back and looking unbeatable!  Tiger Woods came alive at Jack’s tournament shooting a final round 65 to win the Memorial for the 4th time.  Classic woods with incredible iron shots into the greens and the usual number of dramatic putts.  But it was his drives off the tee that was most respected – straight down the middle and long.  No army golf in Dublin this past weekend.  Classic Woods and his 67th win has the markings of indicating that he will pick up his 15th major trophy at Bethpage on Father’s Day 2009.  I think the conversation going into the US Open is who will take second place?

Speaking of being back – two more important players mark their return to the PGA.  John Daly is off suspension, back from the European Tour, 60 pounds lighter and the ultimate winner in the bad pants open on the PGA tour.  Phil Mickelson returns from a roller coaster ride of a lifetime facing the news that his wife Amy is fighting the beast known as breast cancer.  Both players return to action in Memphis for the St. Jude’s Classic and their return comes at a time that both the players and the PGA Tour need each other.  Hopefully, the PGA Tour will see a demon less Daly and will help provide the motivation for the Mickelson family to stand tall and take on their ugly enemy with a nation of supporters.

Three players all on different roads in life brought together over competition with a small with ball on the best manicured parks in the country.  A simple game that dumbfounds thousands of each weekend from coast to coast and around the world.  But it’s this simple game that unites all of us in the best fraternity in the world, it’s called GOLF.  


Updated: 6/1/09

You gotta wear pink was the theme of the day at Colonial Country Club on Saturday and the outpouring of support was everywhere.  Pink in honor of every woman in the world that dreads the two ugliest words in the human vocabulary – “breast cancer”.  Pink to show courage and determination in the fight against this dreaded disease.  Pink to tell Amy and Phil Mickelson we do care. 

What other sport has the charity effort, foundation and player dedication that golf has to our everyday lives?  None!  Every golf tournament is charity based and almost every player has a foundation or is personally involved with a charity close to their personal inspirations.  The PGA Tour has raised over $1.4 billion for charity in the last 71 years.  Not bad for a pro sports organization built on independent contractors. 

Pink out was a success and the Colonial was one for the history books.  Tim Clark is still winless in 184 tries and over $12.5 million in winnings – amazing that this guy is so good but can’t close the deal.  Steve Marino’s time has not come yet – but the clock is ticking and I predict that before the end of the year he will earn his ticket to the Master’s.  Steve Stricker win’s his 5th PGA event and does it by grinding out every shot, including the 3 ½ foot birdie putt on the 2nd playoff hole to win.  It’s been a tough year for Steve with near hits in Palm Springs and LA, but this time he made good and now has a new sport jacket in the closet.

The countdown to the US Open begins with a tiger sighting at the course that Jack built – The Memorial. 


Updated 5/26/09

Some people will say that golf is life, but in reality life is so much bigger.  This past week we rode the rollercoaster of life through the world of golf.  Rory Sabbatini put on a spectacular four days of competitive golf winning the prestigious Byron Nelson in Dallas.  But it was the activities off the course that set the world stage in proper perspective.

Last week we found out that Amy Mickelson is in the battle of life with the ugly beast called breast cancer.  This is the wonderful wife of Phil Mickelson and mother of his three children and a huge icon among PGA Tour wives and players for her charity work and friendliness.  The entire golf world was caught off guard as Phil has withdrawn for competitive golf to be with his wife and family in this huge battle for life.   This doesn’t happen to golfers especially Phil – but it does.  Breast cancer is ugly and attacks women of all ages, ethnics, beliefs, shapes and sizes.  It is a disease that continues to inflict pain into families around the world as it strikes down the foundation of family – the mother. 

The PGA did not take the news like a triple bogey, but rather like an all important eagle putt that gets the adrenalin pumping and the competitive fires blazing on full throttle.  Messages of encouragement, prayers and support came in from around the world to the Mickelson family.  Not one individual stood by silently during the Byron Nelson as every single player wore pink ribbons not just for Amy Mickelson but as a rally call for everyone to stand up and help fight this unfathomable monster.  On Sunday – Rory went pink for the tournament just as John Daly wore pink pants thousands of miles away in the final round of the European PGA Championships – they had different results on the golf course but the same hardcore message to the Mickelson’s and the world to have hope and fight against Breast Cancer.

The final reality was dealt during the post tournament news conference with champion Rory Sabbatini and he disclosed the pain he was suffering as a dear friend was in the battle of cancer as well.  The tears flowed as he described a buddy that stood tall at 6’2” and 220 pounds was now an 85 pound weakling with more fight than Mike Tyson in his prime.   It’s tough but it’s good to see our champions shed tears of reality and bring home the message that every minute of the day is priceless. 

So now the question for you is what will you do about it?  Will you take a moment and make sure your wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend have been checked for breast cancer?  Will you pick up the phone and call the Susan Komen Foundation and see what help they need?  Will you take a moment to hug your mom, wife, sister, daughter and friend and let them know how special they are?  Life is priceless and through the Byron Nelson this past weekend we had a great reminder how special it really is. 


Updated 5/19/09

The Texas three step is one step into the history books.  The Valero Texas Open started the Lone Star Dance off with fireworks on the La Cantera Resort course with birdies, eagles and a playoff.  Everything you could throw in a get down bar room brawl was written into the script in one of the state’s best cities for Tex Mex and hospitality.

Let’s start off with Paul Goydos on top of the leader board.  The man that caught the everyday golfer attention with the 2008 Players Championship was back in contention.  We all cheer for Paul – the regular single father of two who has battled emotional roller coasters his entire life and as he will tell you – I button my top button on my shirt so it won’t fall off since I have no shoulders.  The way he walks the course, shows his emotions and just gets it done needs a storybook ending.  Unfortunately it was a Smokin Joe chip shot that cost him a shot at the playoff.  Hopefully the winners circle will be in Goydos near future.

Flashback to the days of pinpoint iron shots and going low to a record 59 and you can hear the crowds screaming for David Duval.  Am I the only one hoping for a return to form of the former #1 player in the world.  San Antonio provide the backdrop for high hopes as David had it to -8 at one time, but the demon shots are still alive and holding back the once great golfer.  Sadly the glimmer of hopes slid away with final rounds of 72 and 71 to finish at -2.  Our hopes live for another tournament.

Journeyman James Driscoll put up a fight to get into the clubhouse with a lead of-14 but had to endure a long wait to see if it would hold up.  What would you do for over an hour sitting around hearing the gallery cheers of celebration and moans of disappointment?  Glancing at the TV to see Goydos go to -15 with two holes left and Zack Johnson lurking at -14 with you.  Sitting in the clubhouse with the lead must be the Webster definition of slow play.  The nerves, anxiety, adrenalin all rushing through you at the same time.  The wait was worth it as Goydos stumbled and Zack came in tied with Driscoll for a playoff.

Playoffs – the stress must be huge.  Here’s a young guy hoping to break into the small fraternity of brothers called tournament winners battling a Masters Champion.  Driscoll did nothing wrong, Johnson proved why he is a Masters Champion with a 2nd shot within 10 feet for a birdie.  After missing oh so close birdies on 17 and 18 during regular play you knew this putt would not be short and it wasn’t.  straight in and straight down four inches for a  win. 

San Antonio can be proud of kicking off the Texas Swing on the PGA tour with class and drama.  Now the caravan heads to Dallas for the tradition rich Nelson and Colonial to finish high stepping across Texas.  Next year the Valero Texas Open heads to the new TPC Course in San Antonio and the beginning of new traditions in the Lone Star State.


Updated 5/11/09

What a great day to catch up on some needed zzz’s and the Players Championship provide the perfect snooze button for it this weekend.  No fireworks, no tiger, no Phil and no excitement.  The only thing that had any adrenalin pumping was Cejka’s gum chewing.  What happened?

Updated: 5/7/09

Who decided that there were four majors?  What credentials were required to be a major?  Why are the British Open and US Open majors but the Australian Open and Spanish Open are left on the outside looking in?  Who decides if the Player Championship is the fifth major?

The answer is complex -- there's the golf courses, the history, the players, the time of the year when the tournament is played and the fans.  But the real answer to what makes a major is the competition and the tradition.  The masters -- where all past champions gather for a special dinner and are invited to play, the British Open is played on the courses where the game of golf began, the US Open is the ultimate challenge in the world and the PGA is the final challenge among members of the fraternity of golf professionalism. 

So what could make the Players Championship the fifth major?  Time.  Joining the exclusive group of immortal golf tournaments is not done in a year or a decade.  But it takes time for all the elements to come together.  The course is of major quality and the 17th hole one of the most dynamic golf holes in the world and in tournament golf.  The competition is as strong a field as any major.  The championship bloodline is rich with names like Woods, Couples, Nicklaus, Floyd, Trevino, Norman, Mickelson and Love. The fans have made the 17th hole the dynamo that it is with applause for effort, moans for tragedy, groans for broken dreams and cheers for the once in a lifetime shot.

Welcome to the Player Championship weekend the new major.  Yes, after 35 years of competition the time has come and the work fulfilled and this is truly the fifth most exciting golf tournament in the world.  Sit back and enjoy the tradition.

Updated: 5/1/09

I was looking for the phone number of a contact I needed to call and stumbled across an acquaintance that I had not seen or talked to in years.  Immediately memories of good conversations and good times flooded my thoughts and I had the mixed feelings of wanting to reach out to the individual at that very moment and also a feeling of guilt – why had a gap developed between our communication?  Did something happen?  Did time fly by and my own needs create the gap? 

Where am I going with this thought process?  An old friend is beginning to appear on the golf radar screen.  Yes, John Daly sightings are becoming a regular occurrence and this weekend he’s teeing it up on the European Tour in Spain.  Yes, that John Daly that is like the old friend that I have not seen or heard from in years.  Only this was a friendship that with John had way too many conflicts to make it fun anymore.  But as his name resurfaces it’s the memories of the introductory massive drives and 18th hole fist pumps as he won the 1991 PGA Championship or the dramatic 1994 British Open win that we remember.   How many times did you turn on the TV to see John Daly and be amazed at the towering drives and jealous of the beautiful touch around the green?  How many of us were part of the thousands that followed every step John took at the Shell Houston Open?  How many of us were cheering for Daly in the Shell Houston Open playoff versus Singh and felt a body blow when his drive went in the water?

John Daly has resurfaced minus 60 pounds, new swing and new attitude on the European Tour.  His welcome back to the PGA Tour has to wait till June 11th with the St. Jude Classic in Memphis, but I have a feeling that the everyday Joe golf fan has the date circled and a tremendous amount of hope that the golf talent of John  Daly returns to America where he belongs.  I know we have all been burned over and over again with his demons.  How many chances do you give a guy?  In my golf world I’m on the Daly band wagon and cheering every drive, chip and putt.  My hope is to see another Daly – Woods playoff that goes on and on and on.  Could you imagine the crowds?  What about the media?  It would be the perfect final chapters for Daly’s career on the PGA Tour – head to head with Woods over the next 10 years in every major event and tournament that they enter.  This would be the biggest boost the game of golf could ever imagine.

Welcome home John Daly – now let’s grip it and rip it!

Updated: 4/20/09

After the storm comes the calm.  Two days of Houston monsoon rains can be extremely frustrating for a golf addict.  There is only so many times of rolling the white wonder across the hardwood floor green to finally grow old and non-interesting.  CBS did its best to provide the  ultimate fix, but how interesting is it to follow a tournament where the leader is in a zone all his own and wins by 10 strokes.  You try to forget about Brian Gay and make the battle for 2nd place the excitement – but that doesn’t work.

The answer to the storms came through a great new program implemented by Redstone Golf – Golf for Grads.  An inaugural program launched in conjunction with Rice University to introduce the game of golf, golf course etiquette and the opportunity of business on the course to Rice students.  The old saying – if you build it  they will come is alive and well.  The program facilitator, Kim Phillips set the program up and soon had 23 students interested in the camaraderie of golf and the opportunity to learn what this game is all about.  The program started in January and ended yesterday with a nine hole scramble tournament on the Redstone Tournament course.  How does this fix one golf addicts need for a driver/wedge/putter fix?  The invitation to be a mentor in the program paid off with being paired with four Rice colleagues for a day on the course.

What a day and what a course.  Remnants of the Shell Houston Open were evident in various forms on bleacher dismantling and the course was in perfect shape.  Every blade of grass was perfectly combed and the variety of green colors was everywhere.  The greens rolled with no bumps and excellent speed.  The picture perfect weather made for an incredible day.  Did I mention camaraderie?  The Smokin Joe team consisted of golf newcomers Natalie and Kellen – both contributed with accurate putts and some high pressure chips.  Rounding out the team was Will and Charles – one a member of the great Rice football team of 2008 and the other a Sean O’Hair look alike and not a bad five iron player under pressure.  We chatted, we laughed, we talked about the future and we played golf.  Pure uninterrupted golf on the most beautiful course you could have asked for.  Absolutely amazing how a golf course gets besieged with over 8 inches of water but was in perfect shape for our afternoon walk. 

Kim was waiting for the results which we handed in a respectable 3 over par.  But the true results was a golf fix and an afternoon with four amazing fine individuals.  The future of golf is going to be great.


Updated: 4/16/09

I’m in a golfers hangover – the 2009 Masters is in the history book and my golf rush has left me worn out.  What can replace the excitement of Phil’s record tying front nine 30 or the charge that Tiger kicked in on the back nine?  What TV golf telecast is going to duplicate the beauty of Augusta National?  What tournament will keep me sitting on the edge of the sofa watching three pro golfers scramble to survive a playoff?

What is in the golfers medicine cabinet to provide relief from this dreaded morning after let down?  Have no fear the Verizon Heritage teed off this morning from the historic Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head with the famous lighthouse providing a beacon for all TV golf viewers to find a haven for their competitive thirst.  The field is strong with Furyk, Zack, Love, Leonard and two time defending champion Boo Weekly taking a stand on the tee box and greens.  Accuracy is the key to this tournament and the finishing hole provides the drama. 

CBS will fill the screen with the beauty of Hilton Head, competition of the field and the sounds of McCord, Feherty, Faldo and hometown favorite Nantz adding the adjectives and adverbs of excitement.  No it’s not the Master’s or Augusta.  But it is the PGA and your weekend will be filled with birdies, pars and drama.   Do you think Weekly can pull off the trifecta?  Will Love win and become eligible for the 2010 Master’s?  Will Zack put another southern PGA win notch on his belt?  Will an unknown step up and make a name for himself?   Only the weekend will tell.

I think I’m starting to feel better all ready.



Updated: 4/11/09

Put it in the history books with an exclamation point!  The 2009 Masters provided everything possible and then more.  Steven Spielberg could not have scripted the final day any better than what we got.  Two icons of golf – Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson being matched together with an unreal challenge of making up 7 shots and hoping that the leaders would falter.   Let the battle begin!

Thank you Houston weather for getting it right this time with the monsoon rains at noon making the perfect setting for a coach afternoon in front of the HD TV locked into CBS Masters coverage.  The action began immediately with tiger and Phil getting birds on the 2nd hole.  Then Phil entered the zone – hitting darts into the greens and finding the unbelievable shot from the woods on #7 setting the stage for a record tying 30 (-6 under on the front nine).  Tiger was deadly quiet making huge par putts and staying in the hunt till he let out a huge roar with an eagle on #8.  Both players making the turn within striking distance of the leaders and the thoughts of something special were becoming reality.

Perry, Campbell and Cabrera were battling it out but the stage was Phil and Tiger.  Could the two of them catch and pass 11 under and sit down in Butler Cabin waiting for the three amigos to come on in.  The drama grew as our two fearless heavyweights entered Amen Corner with hunger in their eyes.  Phil’s nightmare exploded at #12 – the famous par 3 with the devilish Rae’s Creek slowly rolling by in front of the green.   Tiger tees off first and is sitting pretty on the green and one begins to beg Phil to hit is tight.  Never had a chance as Phil’s nine iron shot hits the bank and the bottom of Rae’s Creek – from knocking on the lead to a double bogey frustration.

The dream was still alive though with plenty of golf left.  Now it was Tiger’s turn with a birdies on 13 and 15 to pull within 2 strokes of the lead.  #16 were Jack made a historic tee shot in `86 and Tiger produced the perfect TV spot for Nike with his incredible chip shot was wide open for the spectacular this Sunday afternoon.  Tiger nails it and walks off 16 at 10 under par and tied with Phil going to the 17 tee box.  Was there any other golfers to even think about?  This was the classic with two of the best battling it out in what Faldo compared to Ali versus Frazier event. 

Dreams are created and dreams are shattered.  Tiger bogeys the last two holes to end the quest for the Grand Slam in 2009.  Phil hung in till 18 to close with a bogey and end one incredible day at Augusta National. 

But the fireworks were not over as the Perry, Cabrera and Campbell picked up the pace and took this tournament to another level.  With the Tiger and Phil show done for the day, this threesome attacked the back nine.  Perry started with and incredible birdie from the fringe on #12.   Cabrera and Campbell did not shy away but kept the pressure on for the entire afternoon.  It was Kenny Perry’s tournament to win after an amazing birdie on the #16th hole to take a two stroke lead into the #17th.  The dreaded 17th that bit Tiger’s grand slam in the butt did the same thing to Perry – bogey bogey finish setting up a three player playoff. 

Playoff – the first hole looked like a comedy.  Crazy shots off the trees, in the bunkers and short had everyone in disbelief.  Didn’t one of these three players want a green jacket in their wardrobe?  Campbell answered the question first by missing a 5 footer and exiting the playoff stage door left.  Perry and Cabrera headed to the 10th tee box and a battle of the nerves.  Two drives down the middle with Perry up first for a routine shot into the green.  No – it’s a Smokin Joe hook to the left of the green and under an Augusta bush.  Cabrera quietly hit his 2nd shot to within 20 feet and sat back to see what Perry would do next and wonder if the green jacket would fit.  One long chip and two Cabrera putts and the battle was finished.  The first Argentina native to win the Masters and US Open – quite the accomplishment. 

One for the record books – the 2009 Masters.   Now we sit back and wait for the US Open at Bethpage – what drama is in store for us this June? 

 
Updated: 4/10/09

Augusta, Georgia home of the fountain of youth!  I want some of the water they are serving at the Masters as age was turned back an Father Time teased us with dreams of a potential fantastic weekend.  What a sight to see Larry Mize hitting irons within striking distince and finishing the day at 5 under.  But the story gets event better.  It was 1987 when Larry Mize hit that magical sand shot that won the Masters and once again denied Greg Norman of a green jacket.

The Shark is back and drinking from the same water fountain as he posts a 2 under 70 adding to the drama of what could happen.  Do the golf gawds have a plan laid out that provides the ultimate drama one could dream of for Sunday?  Could Greg Norman and Larry Mize be coming down the back nine in a head to head battle?  Could on shot be the loudest shot heard at the Masters?

No.  Thursday is the day of dreamers and fun.  But reality is the foundation of Augusta National Golf Course and three more days of competition, weather challenges, greens drying out and getting faster will awaken all dreamers from their fantasies.  look at the leader board from Thursday;

Texans Chad Campbell started with 5 straight birdies -- Masters record -- and settled on top of the leader board at 7 under.

Jim Furyk, past US Open winner and one of the tours best iron players, in at 6 under
Kenny Perry and Sean O'Hair -- consistent tour players and winners -- quietly sitting a 4 under
Padriag Harrington -- going for a 3rd major win in a row -- sitting at 3 under
Beware, there is a cat loose among the azaleas and hills of Augusta National.  Tiger is in at 2 under with a round that could easily been at 4 or 5 under.  The swing and the focus in the eyes tell the story.  Tiger smells blood and its wearing a green blazer.  I have the feeling that the Sunday drama will have the usual suspect -- Tiger Woods -- front and center.

Signs of the future stood tall.  Expect a big day for three teenagers -- Rory McIlroy, Ryo Ishikawa and Danny Lee are sitting comfortable and the opening day jitters have been addressed.  The swings are magical, there are no fears and this threesome will answer the bell and set the trend of what to expect for years to come.  i see all three making the cut -- which I think will come in at even par or one under -- and one of the them will make some noise on Sunday.

Day two at the Masters -- make sure to take a sip from the fountain of youth.

Updated: 4/9/09

It’s here!  Yes – The Masters is the new Christmas for me.  The anticipation begins with the thirty day countdown to the Shell Houston Open and then the emotions run rampant with Masters fever.  Last night I sat in awe as a fellow roller hockey spectator shared his experience of actually going to Mecca in 2008 for two days of practice rounds and the memorable par 3 tournament.  His description used words like beautiful, awesome, unbelievable, lush, green, friendly and once in a lifetime. 

Our conversation moved on to this year’s par 3 tournament and how the goosebump factor hit a #10 on the scale of sensation as the ESPN broadcast opened with the perfect threesome – Player, Palmer and Nicklaus teeing off on the first hole.  These our my heros and memories are in living color of the countless battles between these three legends – they represent 13 green jackets!  ESPN was great following all three tee shots on to the green and then the magic as Jack rolls in a birdie putt.  Legends don’t disappoint they give you glimpses of what once was as Jack birdies the 2nd hole and all of a sudden is 2 under after two holes – oh my goodness is this magic in a bottle, pinch me as the memories of the historic putt in 1986 that lead to his last green jacket flood my brainwaves, who could forget the putter being raised over his head as his caddy/son ran for a congratulatory bear hug.

The par 3 tournament was filled with excitement – Greg Norman acing the 6th hole and his caddy/wife Chris Everett giving him the Norman huge and kiss, Faldo missing a putt long by 3 inches and walking up to the putt and appearing to slap the putt across the green in disgust – but no, he hit if perfectly as it went up the green/stopped/hesitated/started going backwards and falling into the hole!  There was Gary Player hitting a tee shot into the water, dropping a second ball and putting it in the hole for a par 3!  But most importantly there were the children participating in the par 3 tournament – caddying, hitting shots for their famous fathers, autographer seekers and then there is little Riley Morris.   A new Fuzzy tradition as he once again picked Riley from the thousands of youngsters to take his turn on the green and putt for him.  Riley didn’t disappoint as she swings the putter on the last hole and nails it.  The crowd goes nuts, Fuzzy stands amazed and Riley has the look of what’s the big deal. 

The Masters stands heads and shoulders above the three other majors for being first, full of tradition, filled with natures best, field of the top competitors from around the world with the best fans from the around world watching in person and on TV.  Arnold Palmer hit the first drive signaling the start of the 2009 Masters.  The Houston weatherman is predicting rain – great – the Masters is the only golf I need for the next four days.



Updated: 4/8/09

It’s 24 hours from the opening ceremonies for the Master's.  Arnold Palmer and his army will launch the first shot off the box on the first hole signaling the start of the 2009 Masters.  Ian Woosnam, Chez Reavie and Briny Baird will then step up as the first group on the tee box.  Do you think there will be any goosebumps and bundled nerves walking up to that tee box.  I don't care how many professional tournaments you've teed it up in, this is the Masters and this threesome is following the King and the opening ceremony with thousands of fans surrounding the hole while millions tune in to the TV, sattelite radio and internet to catch action.  It’s got to be nerve wracking.