Know The Next Golf Tournament Winner? Wanna Bet?

I like betting.  I can't help it.., it's just fun for me.  I'm not an addict.  I'm not at the casino every other night.  I haven't lost my house or my car.  Maybe my shirt, but that's about it.  I'll bet on individual games, drop money into fantasy sports and, of course, the brackets going on this time of year.     

The thing about betting is, it just makes the game, or whatever you're betting on, that much more interesting.  Whether you're betting on the NCAA Championship game, or the day your co-worker's baby is born - it makes you care that much more about the result. 

We here at golfstinks have touched on different kinds of betting in the past.  Be it betting while out on the course or creating a bracket in the hopes for a real PGA championship, we're always looking for a way to put our hard-earned greenbacks on the line.  But let's be honest, golf isn't exactly a big-time sport for betting. 

Now we've all seen the odds posted for the favorites in golf tournaments - especially the majors.  But golf doesn't get nearly the betting action that most major sports get, be it legal or illegal.  I think a lot of that has to do with the relative anonymity of the players on the tour.  But what if you found yourself in a golf pool?  What if you were in a Vegas sports book and you saw the odds pop up for The Masters?  What would you do?  Who would you choose?  How much would you bet?

See, you can check just about anywhere for betting assistance on football or basketball - the internet, the newspaper, even the phone!  But golf?  Not so much.  However, that doesn't mean they don't exist.  Sites such as Golf Picks are out there to help you. 

Now, if there was only a way to raise golf into the ranks of the top wager-worthy sports, we could put all of this to better use.  But I guess until the PGA recognizes the opportunity it has at a gold-mine with an actual PGA Championship, the world of golf betting will remain a lesser interesting option. 

But let it be known, golfstinks will do what it can to raise interest in all things golf, including the occasional wager - on-course or off.  You can bet on it.

Swing 'til you're happy!            

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Golf: A Human Sport...

I'm stuck in a catch 22. Besides Golfstinks.com, I also work in the semiconductor industry supplying manufacturers with components to make circuit boards. I'm all about electronics and developing new technology but not so much when it comes to golf. As much as these electronic gadgets supposedly make life easier, it can also take from the human aspect of it. I'm submerged knee deep in electronics on a daily basis, golfing is my way to get away from it.

To me, golf is a sport* that relies heavily on human feel, intuition, instinct, some common sense and most importantly - practice. I'm not really sure if electronics should have much play in this game we love. For example, you drop $300 on a golf GPS apparatus another $250 on a rangefinder and what does it tell you? You are 205 yards out from the green. Great, you couldn't figure that out by looking at the 200 yard marker 5 yards in front you?

Hey, if you are going to drop $500 on some gadgets to tell you where you are on a golf course, I'm sure for another $500 you can hire a pro to take the shot for you too. Just saying. In reality, what device do we need to improve our game? I know, it's called playing...a lot. Leave the rangefinder's and GPS stuff for the Navy Seals.

Electronics can be like drugs whereas we develop a dependency for them. Case in point, cellphones. We can leave the house without our wallet and not really care to turn around and go get it. If we leave without our cell...forget it, might as well be naked because that's how we feel. That being said, let's keep golf the way it was meant to be - a human sport*.

Hit'em long...yell FORE!!!

*For those that feel golf is a game and not a sport, just replace the word sport with game and we can co-exist peacefully.

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EWGA: Give Back, Have Fun, Play Golf

In a world dominated by male sports, golf these days is typically a game that transcends the sexes. For example, the LPGA has done a somewhat decent job of reminding us that women do indeed play golf. But their not the only organization helping promote the game for ladies - there's also the EWGA.

The EWGA (Executive Women's Golf Association) has been connecting business and professional women to golf for over 20 years and has built a vast sisterhood of members across not only the United States, but also Canada and Italy to boot.

And the association knows how to have fun - their biggest event of the year, Golfpalooza, is being held in Vegas this year (former LPGA star Lorena Ochoa will not only be in attendance, but she will also be receiving the EWGA's leadership award).

But this isn't just mindless fun - the organization's charity arm (EWGA Foundation) helps young girls develop their golf skills and aids women over 30 to further their education and careers. In addition, the EWGA Foundation organizes the donation of golf equipment to those less fortunate.

With all this charity, you would think it's hard for EWGA members to actually be out on the course, but it's the exact opposite. For example, the EWGA has its own championship tournament. In fact, the EWGA Championship is the largest women's amateur golf tournament of its kind - it begins through a qualifier in your local chapter and then moving on to the regionals and finally to the championship, featuring women from all over the country (in 2011, it was in Palm Desert, CA).

I actually used to work with Mrs. Lisa Edmonds, who won the low net, 2nd flight championship a couple years ago in Madison, WI. I had a chance to speak with Lisa recently and asked her to sum-up what her experience has been like as an EWGA member:

"I joined the EWGA back in 2003 so I would have the opportunity to play golf with more women [and] my experience has been nothing but positive...Each EWGA chapter is run exclusively by volunteers, and if you join and lend a hand whenever you can, I am sure you will not be disappointed! The companionship, laughter, golf and more golf, lifetime connections and friendship you experience by being an involved member of the EWGA is more than worth the price of membership. As they say � New set of Callaway Irons � $699, Box of Lady Precept Balls � $20, Round of golf at your local golf club � $48, cost of EWGA membership and volunteering at one of our events � PRICELESS!"
- Lisa Edmonds, Secretary - EWGA Fairfield County CT Chapter

The enthuesastic way Lisa speaks about the EWGA inspired me to write this post - after all, here's a hard-working professional who's extremely passionate about golf and the EWGA allows her to truly embrace that passion.

And that's what it's all about, isn't it? Being able to embrace the things you're passionate about - regardless of if you excel at them or not. The EWGA not only helps women do that, but it also lets women discover why golf is one of the greatest games of all time: Camaraderie, competitiveness and a whole lot of fun.

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The Golf Tour of The Average Hack's Dreams

It's an idea that's crossed all of our minds numerous times.  It's an idea we've tackled here at Golfstinks on more than one occasion.  It's something of which many of us have thought we'd like to be a part.  It's a golf tour for the regular guy.  Yes, it turns out, they do exist after all! 

This past weekend, I attended the Connecticut Golf Show.  It was here, among the rows of reps from resorts, club manufacturers and apparel companies, that we came across a little organization called The Tour of Western New England.  It's this tour, and others around the country like it, that is the answer to many golfers prayers - the opportunity for the average hack to play, and compete, in an actual tour. 

No, you don't travel all around the country playing the top courses with the stars of the PGA Tour.  Instead, you play courses in your general area, competing against other golfers like you.  And let's say they're not so much like you - maybe they're golfing prowess is far superior to your meager skills.  No worries, handicaps are involved.  So the playing field can truly be about as level as possible. 

So what does it take to join?  Well, it's $90 up front to join the tour.  What does that $90 get you? Tee times, access to private courses if they're a tour stop, guest privileges at most events, handicap tracking and access to other local tours.  Not bad for only $90.  From there, you pay for your golf at each tour stop, and that's it...you're in.  You can play in as many of the 20-25 events as you'd like, you're eligible for prizes, carts and meals are included and with the private course stops along the way, you have the opportunity to play some courses you normally would not.  Again...not bad for $90.

So who does this tour fit?  Well, just about anyone who has the time to play often and enjoys playing different courses week after week.  If you're the kind of player who has to play the same course or two over and over, then this isn't for you.  However, if you are that type of player, you're truly missing out on the beauty of the sport. 

As I think about it, I see that a tour like this is right up my alley, as well as the alleys of most of my golfing buddies.  We like playing as many different courses as possible.  We'll get competitive at times.  And hey, if prizes and meals are included...there's a strong possibility you can lure me in.

Swing 'til you're happy!                

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Golf Gadgets; WTF? (Part 3)

Ok, it's been a while since we did one of these but it's back. In our 3rd installment, we will delve further into the "golf training aid" market and have a look at what will bring the tour within reach for us hacks. Ding! Ding! Let's get it on!

What They Say: Using a proven and unique frame and brace design, several new features have been incorporated into the new CentreCup Pro so it promotes both the �straight-back and straight-through� PILS putting stroke and the �inside-square-inside� stroke. CentreCup Pro is the upgraded version of the best-selling CentreCup� putting aid and delivers a pure putting stroke every time - whichever method a teaching professional recommends.

What I Say: I got a better method for you. Get drunk, I'll slump you over a lowered pull up bar and you can putt til you puke. Hey, at least you'll get your money's worth.

What They Say: I don't know what they could possibly say about the "Power Swing Fan Training Aid." It's a fan...

What I Say: "It is so friggin' hot out here today! Hey Bob, break out that fan and cool us own a bit, would ya?"

What They Say: PivotPro guides you towards a correct pivot, encouraging correct golf swing fundamentals that result in proper coiling of the upper torso against the back leg. PivotPro helps you create maximum resistance that leads to more power, consistency, proper weight distribution, and footwork. It's like having your own professional golf instructor at your beck and call!

What I Say: Professional golf instructor at your beck and call? You're telling me this snow board binding on a stick is like an instructor? Hank Haney better watch out.

There it is, another successful look at golf training aids Golfstinks.com style.

Hit'em long...yell FORE!

Related Posts:
Golf Gadgets; WTF? (Part 1)
Golf Gadgets; WTF? (Part 2)

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5 Reasons They Quit Golf

As much as I love this game, there was a time when I thought about giving it up.

Even though I snapped-out-of-it and rediscovered my passion for golf, others don't. Why?

Golf is too Hard
Perhaps the most common reason is that golf is simply too hard. But is it too hard or are they just too lazy? Last year, I penned a guest post for a popular golf blog in which I asked if we're too lazy to get better at golf. Here's an excerpt:

Practice makes perfect�Or so the saying goes. What that little phrase fails to articulate is how much practice it actually takes to make things perfect. Throw in an impossibly difficult sport like golf and attaining perfection becomes perfectly ridiculous. Now don�t get me wrong, there are a select few who not only have the raw talent to be great at golf, but also have the drive to spend countless hours on the range or putting green practicing�But I�m not one of them. And I surmise not many of you are either. As far as I�m concerned: I�m just too lazy to work that hard at something I�m never going to make a living at in the first place.

Yeah, golf is hard. And some people have the guts to deal with that reality and enjoy golf anyway, while others don't.

They Hate Golf
So they tried it and hated it - meh, it happens. But how could you possibly hate a game as great as this? Well, I wrote about that also - in fact, I provided 5 reasons why people hate golf. Enjoy.

A Serious Injury
Let's face it, you would have to be in a good amount of pain to give up on a sport like golf, but it happens. Be it your back, or knees, or in my case, my foot knocked me out for a couple months - there are reasons people are forced to give up this game. Sometimes the pain makes quitting unavoidable, but other times, it can be downright inspirational. And how a returning Vet who lost a leg can take up golf is both inspirational and remarkable. Makes my foot pain look rather pathetic, actually.

They Stink
This is different than golf being too hard. When people quit because the game is too hard, it's typically because they've recently started playing and realize they don't have the time or patience to get better. But when people quit because they stink, it's typically because they are pompous asses.

For example, do you know a golf buddy who can't stand it that you win all the time? You know - they guy who makes everything a competition, but get him out on the golf course and he's less than stellar? Not being able to live with the fact that he's not as good as you at something, he quits golf never to return. Now there's a guy that takes himself way too seriously - and believe me, those people are out there!

They Lose the Will to Golf
What? Well, if you were reading this blog a couple months ago, you would know all about losing the will to golf. When we dig way down into our psyche, we realize that passions can, for one reason or another, simply burn out. There can be several causes for this. In my case, an extended lack in playing time, coupled with a shift in priorities, triggered the feeling that golf was no longer an important part of my life. While I have since come to my senses, I'm sure there are others (perhaps those who were never really passionate about the game in the first place) who will simply walk away from the sport because golf just doesn't matter all that much.

I certainly hope you never quit golf - especially because you stink, or because it's too hard. If we writers of the Golf Stinks Blog accomplish anything, it's to convey you don't have to be good at something to love it. And I certainly hope you aren't forced to give it up due to an injury or perhaps worse, lose the will to play altogether. It's true that golf is not for everyone...but if you love it, you know what keeps you coming back.

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A Perception of Golf by Age Groups

Occasionally, while I'm driving to and from work or out on my lunch break, I listen to sports talk radio.  And it was just this past Friday when I tuned in mid-day for a couple of minutes and caught an interesting golf conversation.

I'm tuned into The Fan (WFAN - New York) listening to their mid-day show.  This particular show is hosted by kind of an odd pair due to their age.  While one guy, Evan Roberts, is in his late-20's, his co-host, Joe Beningo, is in his late 50's.  As you could imagine, the age difference makes for good conversation on multiple sports topics and all-around good sports radio. 

But on Friday I tuned in just in time to catch part of a conversation about golf and golf tournaments.  I missed the beginning, but I got the general idea - the way a younger guy looks at golf vs. the way an older guy does.

A caller was trying to talk up how much fun it is to go to a golf tournament, but Evan just wasn't really down with it.  Joe on the other hand was in agreement with the caller, trying to express how incredible some of the shots and putts the pros make truly are.  But what it came down to were the two overall opinions.  Evan's was that he will probably take up golf later in life.  But for the time being, while he's still got his legs, he's going to participate in more active sports.  Joe on the other hand, wishes he took up golf earlier in life.  This conversation got me wondering how many golfers and non-golfers perceive the sport this way.  Using myself as an example, I can see where both guys are coming from.      
          
I spent most of my early life living practically right around the corner from a golf course, but never had any interest in playing the sport.  I was younger, and interested in the more active sports.  I wanted to play basketball, football and softball.  Not golf.  So for that reason, I understand where Evan is coming from.  As you get older, the active sports are going to be gone and you'll be relegated to either watching them on TV or watching your kids play.  So get the time in when you can.  Soon, golf will be your only option.

But on the other hand, I certainly see Joe's view.  Once I began playing relatively regularly, I too had wished I had taken up the game sooner than I did.  I didn't realize until I began playing, just because it's not an "active" sport doesn't mean it's not fun.  The key is to play the game as you would a pickup basketball game, or a softball game - don't take it too serious.  Just have fun with your buddies, relax and play a game.  I wonder now what took me so long to take it up, and I'm glad my friends introduced it to me when they did.

So is it the Evan-type perception that is keeping the younger generation from taking the sport up as much as in the past?  I can see how it would be.  Watch it on TV and it looks relatively boring.  But it's a different story out on the course.  It can be competitive if you want it to be.  Or, like my golfing buddies and I, it can just be a relaxing day out with your buddies.  Either way, it's a sport that deserves a chance from everyone, young or old.  And bearing in mind the opinions of the two hosts, there's going to come a point in time when golf will be your only realistic sports option.  So the sooner you take it up, the better you're likely to be and the more appreciation you'll have for it in the future.

So Evan (and those with his thought process), if this reaches you somehow, let Joe take you on the course once or twice.  Give it a round or two now and you'll appreciate it more later.  And hey, if you don't like it, at least you gave it a chance.  But trust me, ten years from now (maybe less) you'll be looking for a sport you can participate in without having an oxygen tank in tow.

Swing 'til you're happy!   

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I Might Actually Watch Golf Again...

A couple weeks back I watched a three way playoff between Haas, Mickelson and Bradley for the Northern Trust Open. This is the first time I watched golf on purpose in a long, long time. And for the first time in a long, long time I was enjoying golf on TV. Fast forward a week or so later and Stinky Golfer Chris posted about the PGA needing their own Jeremy Lin. I agree.

In the meantime, as we wait for a new star to emerge, I'm watching golf to see who will take over the throne. It's exciting times in the pro golf universe. With all that negative hoopla the media was giving golf because Tiger couldn't keep it in his pants, it's actually refreshing to see a clean slate and a top spot yet to be filled. It's all about turning the negatives into positives, right?

So, who's it going to be? Let's take a look at the top 5 in the FedExCup standings.

Rank This Week	Rank Last Week	Player	Events	Points	# of Wins	# of Top 10's	Points behind Lead	Reset Points
1	1	Kyle Stanley	6	935	1	2
2	2	Johnson Wagner	6	860	1	3	75
3	3	Phil Mickelson	5	807	1	2	128
4	6	Mark Wilson	6	802	1	2	133
5	4	Bill Haas	6	752	1	2	183

Isn't this a change of pace? Kyle Stanley leading the pack. Wait...who? Kyle Stanley? Not so bad for someone that is ranked 48th in the world. What about the #1 ranked golfer in the world, Luke Donald. Again...who? Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking these guys. I find it funny how golf, or the media rather hasn't found its star in this group of leaders.

What's the issue? Are they waiting for Tiger to mount his comeback? Come on man! It's time for new blood. There's a whole pool of young guns worthy of the limelight. These guys have such a great opportunity right under their noses. As long as they battle it out and vie for that top spot, the tour will make my TV channel rotation on Sunday afternoons. I just hope it stays interesting for a while.

Hit'em long...yell FORE!!!

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Golf Needs Jeremy Lin

Well, if you haven't figured it out by now, it's official.  Linsanity is running wild throughout the basketball world.  Actually, make that the whole world.  Being a basketball fan, I've been sucked in.  And why shouldn't I be?  Here's an Ivy League kid who wasn't offered a scholarship by any school, went undrafted and signed as a free agent with the Golden State Warriors, was then cut by two teams before signing with the Knicks.  And supposedly was about to be cut by them if not for injury problems on their roster.

But then one game comes along and he outplays an all-star.  He starts the next game, lights it up and his coach decides he's going to "ride Lin like freakin' Secretariat."  No looking back since then.  Eleven straight good, if not great, games and a star is born. 

But it's not only Lin or the Knicks who are benefiting from this new-found stardom.  TV ratings for the Knicks are up.  Ticket prices have risen.  The international fanbase is growing again.  Hell, even stock prices for Madison Square Garden are up about six percent!  The NBA couldn't have made-up a better story!

Now, I'm not really one for the "manufactured" story, but creating a Jeremy Lin may be something the PGA wants to look into.  I mean, why not?  Look at what it's done for the NBA!  And coming off of a lockout, it couldn't have happened at a better time. 

With golf's TV ratings as low as they are, the sport's biggest star clearly not what he once was and overall interest in the game falling every year, golf needs a knight in shining armor.  Think sixteen years ago to 1996 when Tiger first came on the scene prefessionally.  That's what golf needs now in 2012. 

So who will it be?  Who knows?  How about they start with the next relatively unknown player to finish high in a tournament?  Remember, he doesn't have to be a great player, or even a player who will compete for the win in every tournament.  It just has to be a player that everyone can get behind.  Lin is not a top-ten player.  He's probably not even a top ten player at his own position, he's just on a serious hot streak.  But that's not what matters to fans.  First and foremost, it's the story that matters. 

The beauty of competitive golf is that not alot of strokes separate the best 18-hole round from someone in the middle of the pack.  So taking a player and saying he finished only four strokes back might, in actuality, be a long way behind.  But it doesn't sound like much, and that's the key.  Losing by four makes you sound like you had a good shot down the stretch.  Play that out and hope.  And you never know, maybe you catch lightning in a bottle!

Well, I don't know if this makes any sense really.  Just looking for ideas to help as usual.  Besides, who would you start with?  How about John Huh?  Who?  Exactly.  Some of you may know him now, after yesterday.  But you didn't know him two days ago, did you?  Only the hardest of the hardcore golf fans did. 
 
This is a chance for the PGA to jump on it's own Jeremy Lin-like hype.  You see what it's done for the NBA.  Why can't it do the same for the PGA?  It has to start somewhere.  Here's as good an opportunity as any.

Swing 'til you're happy!                   

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Golfstinks.com Open Book Quiz

As you probably already know, golfstinks.com is very proud of it's glossary. So proud in fact we really enjoy sharing it with our readers. That said, let's test your knowledge on what we have worked so hard at compiling and creating for you.

All you have to do is guess the correct glossary entry. We provide the definition you provide the right golfstinks.com glossary term. It's as simple as that. Now, as the title invokes, this is an open book test. Well, more of an open internet test. Feel free to use whatever means necessary to get the right answer. In other words...cheat, you do it on the course anyway.

Submit your answers to info@golfstinks.com and we will randomly select a reader with the correct answers. The winner will get a Golf Genie Practice Drills Pocket Guide! A $15 dollar value!

Let's get started:

1. when the score one puts down is somehow mysteriously lower than what they actually got (can be applied to either one particular hole or to an entire round).

2. a golf course where the holes are so close together and/or the players so bad, you're always ducking for cover from stray golf balls.

3. while putting, when the ball circles the hole before dropping into the cup.

4. the act of hitting the ball to the extreme left and then hitting it to the extreme right on the very next shot, especially if the act is done several times in unison (left, right, left, right, forward...march)!

5. the person (usually female) that drives the food cart around on a golf course to sell beer, water and snacks to the golfers.

Contest ends March 2, 2012. Good Luck!

If after this little exam you are inspired and feel you have a glossary suggestion worthy of our Average Joe Golf Glossary, submit the term and definition HERE. In the event we accept your entry and use it in our glossary, you will win a Golf Genie Tee to Green Pocket Guide as well as go down in history as part of the coolest golf site!

Hit'em long...yell FORE!

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Anyone Ever Golf in Hawaii?

Artist credit: warrenkeating.com

Me and my big mouth...

So a couple of years ago, my wife and I, my in-laws and my sister-in-law and her husband were on a family vacation in the Florida Keys.

One evening, while lounging under a few palm trees and sipping on some rum-based concoction, my aforementioned gigantic mouth blurts out: "Hey, next time, we should go to Hawaii!"

The next day, my wife reminded me of how crazy my suggestion was: "Hawaii? You realize I'm pregnant, right? When will we have time to go to Hawaii with a baby?" "Relax," I told her. "Your step sister is pregnant too. It was late, I had a few in me - no one took me seriously. We're not going to Hawaii...trust me."

Fast forward to present day. It's midnight and I just spent the last several hours online booking our flights to Hawaii. Maui, to be exact. Turns out my sister-in-law not only took me very seriously, but considered my suggestion a splendid idea to boot (babies or no babies).

Anyone ever try to book a vacation to Hawaii from the East Cost of the United States with a toddler in tow? Making the trip all in one day is an impossibility (our son would be off the wall by the 8th hour in). So we have to break-up our flights.

Initially, I tried to fly into LA and then catch a non-stop flight to Maui the next day, but it turns out to be much cheaper to go to San Diego first, then to LA and then to Maui. Yep - a flight from LA to Maui was like $300 more per-person than a flight from San Diego to LA to Maui (same airline). WTF?

Of course, you can't go to San Diego with a toddler and not go to the zoo. So we're flying into San Diego two days before our flight to Maui (via LA) and going to the zoo (now I know why I was saving all my hotel points...geesh).

So, when we finally get to Hawaii, we'll have seven days to lounge under a few palm trees while sipping on a Mai Tai (AKA: a rum-based concoction) - which is just enough time for my fat yap to suggest we all go to Greece next.

All that being said, I'm pleased to report there will be time for a round of golf while I'm in Maui...But where should I play? Since we're staying on the west coast of the island, I feel like Kapalua Plantation (home of the Hyundai Tournament of Champions) should be high on my list. Anyone ever play there?

How about other suggestions? I'll probably only have time for one round so I want to make it count. But Kapalua is pushing $300 and this trip is costing me a small fortune already - perhaps there's another awesome course with lower greens fees? Don't get me wrong, I'll go a bit more in debt for Kapalua, but I just wanted to weigh all my options first.

My trip is in April - any suggestions beforehand would be greatly appreciated! And I plan on posting about my experience on whichever course I end up playing, so stay tuned for that too.

Wish me luck!

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Could The Future of Golf Rely On Video Games?

I grew up playing video games.  I distinctly remember me and my friends from the neighborhood gathering at each others houses to play Atari, Intellivision and Coleco as soon as one of us got a new game.  I remember the craze when Nintendo first hit stores, and I remember being the first of my friends to have it.  It was like Christmas for everyone in my neighborhood! 

All these years later, things aren't so different.  I still play games myself sometimes, although my Playstation 3 is used equally as much by me for Netflix and Blu-Ray movies.  But my kids...that's another story.

They love the video games just as much as I did when I was a kid.  I have three different gaming systems in my house right now, not including anything portable.  Seems silly, right?  Well, not really.  Each of them serves a bit of a different purpose.  Besides a game system, my PS3, as mentioned earlier, is a Blu-Ray player and Netflix streamer.  The Wii is for the more "active" games and is probably the most fun of the three systems.  The XBox 360 is pretty much strictly for gaming.  But I'll tell you what else the games are - the Wii specifically, was used as a tool to get my boys interested in the game of golf.

People freak out and think that video games have a negative effect on kids.  Many people feel if kids see violence in a game, they're going to think violence is OK in real life.  Well, I'm not saying these people are wrong, but if your kids play Grand Theft Auto for a few hours, then go out and steal a car and beat up a hooker...sorry, but it's not the game.  You're failing as a parent.  You've got bigger problems than video games. 

Me, I've used my Wii to influence my kids.  No, I didn't buy Call of Duty so I can get them to buy guns...although, it seems to have influenced me a bit.  Rather, it started out with Wii Sports (a "sampler" game that comes with the Wii).  Included in this game is a cartoon-like 9-hole golf course.  But the idea that you use the controller as a club is what intrigued my kids, as well as myself which is why I bought the system to begin with.  And guess what...it helped!   

My boys had no interest at all in watching golf on TV.  And even though I play golf, they didn't really seem to share my interest.  That is, until they swung the controller on the Wii.  Somehow, that seemed to open the door.  Next thing you know, they want to go to a real driving range.  Soon after, my oldest uses his birthday money to buy a starter set of clubs.  The next season, we're out on the course.  Now, my youngest boy is interested in buying his own set of clubs!  And I have to say, a golf video game is partially responsible for this.

So what could this mean for the future of this sport?  Could golf video games help influence kids to pick up a real driver rather than just a virtual one?  Should the USGA or PGA take this into consideration and do more to work these games into the sports promotion?  I don't have any real proof or statistics to show that a video game can influence this behavior, but I do know of two instances when it has.

Now it remains to be seen if golf does continue to hold my boys interest.  For now, basketball is still first on the list for both, as well as baseball for one and soccer for the other.  But the golf seed has been planted.  And if it's true that video games do have this "effect" on kids, then why not use it to your advantage rather than just complain about it?  Get them influenced by something positive rather than some "shoot 'em up" game.  You never know, you may end up with a future playing partner for years to come!

Swing 'til you're happy, even if it's with a virtual club!          

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What if the PGA Tour Went Extinct?

Remember the old philosophical question: If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, would it make a sound? Well ponder this: If the PGA Tour were to disappear tomorrow, would anyone really care?

A couple years ago, I wrote about the economics of golf, and how the pro tours only contribute a measly 1% to golf's total economic impact.

So from a financial standpoint, the PGA Tour could dissolve overnight without much monetary backlash to the golf industry. The golf equipment and apparel machine would still be cranking-out merchandise to supply millions of weekend hacks throughout the world.

But for how long? With the tour defunct, wouldn't the average golfer begin to dwindle in numbers? Well, I guess that depends on how popular the tour is with the golfing masses to begin with. For example, a decade ago I would have been laughed at for even suggesting a post like this one - after all, the hero on tour was one of the most recognizable athletes in all of sports.

Ah, but today he's barley the shell of his former self and as a result, the PGA Tour has taken one giant leap back into obscurity. Perhaps more detrimental is that no one has taken his place. Want proof? Turn on ESPN any given Sunday an you'll see them lead the golf segment talking about Tiger's third-place finish, rather than the poor schlep who actually took home the trophy.

With no face to the organization and television ratings that are basically nonexistent, it makes you wonder if it's all worth the effort? Rolling into a new city every week and setting up shop on some corporate sponsor's dime (could have donated that money to build a new cancer wing at the local hospital or something); trotting out a B-list of tour pros to go through the motions in front of a sparse gallery of spectators; turning on the HD cameras that broadcast to an equally paltry television audience. One has to ask themselves: Does the ends justify the means?

Sure, if the PGA Tour were no longer, some diehard fans would be disappointed (not to mention some of our fellow golf bloggers) and local establishments near tour stops would miss the boost in sales. But the top pros would head over to the European Tour (which would subsequently be broadcast more frequently here in the U.S.) and golf life for you and me would pretty much remain unchanged.

Not many golfers I know are quitting because they stink - no sir, we just keep on playing no matter what the game throws at us. And perhaps that's the most fundamental point - We don't play this game because the PGA Tour is so great, we play it because golf is great (if anything, watching the scratch players gives us more of a complex).

So, what if the PGA Tour went extinct? As long as the European Tour added a stop at The Masters, I'd be happy. So perhaps I should re-phrase my question: If the PGA Tour went extinct, so what?

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Golf Questions Answered Part 3

Third time's a charm, or so it has been said. You know, I would really like to think so. Considering Golf Questions Answered...The Golfstinks.com Way! was a success and Part Dos! faired just as well, it's only natural to continue.

So, keeping with the tradition, we'll get to the general inquiries but this time around we'll touch upon some personal stuff too. Let's get to it!

Q: Why is Tiger not winning any more?
A: Let's break it down:

1. August 1996 - November 2009 - Butt load of women=butt load of wins.
2. November 2009 - present - No women=no wins. Do the math.

Q: What does John Daly carry in his pockets?
A: This took a little research.

1. 1987 - 1990 - money, bottle opener and cigarettes.
2. 1990-2010 - a lot less money, cigarettes, bad stuff we were told to 'just say no to' and a half pint.
3. 2010 - present - a copy of his album (yes, he actually recorded an album) and...cigarettes.

Q: Who's the biggest ladies' man on the tour?
A: Well, thanks to TW, you've got a better shot at bringing peace to the mideast than finding this out.

Q: If I ground my wedge in a sand trap and no one sees it, should I say anything?
A: In the words of Judge Smails: "The most important decision you can make right now is what you stand for; goodness...or badness." Come on man, Judge Smails was a fictional character! No harm no foul.

Q: What are some good drills when I'm off the course?A: Dewalt, Black & Decker or Makita. Any more questions?

Well, that wraps up another successful Q & A session. If you have any golf questions please forward them to pete@golfstinks.com. Thank you yet again and I really look forward to part 4!

Hit'em long...yell FORE!!!

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The Male Golfers Twist On Valentine's Day

Hey ladies, Valentine's Day is tomorrow. Time to get out and grab those last minute gifts with which to shower your man!

Now that sounds a little out of the ordinary, right? As a matter of fact, it sounds downright ridiculous. We all know that Valentine's Day is a holiday for women. It's been marketed that way for as long as any of us can remember. Don't get me wrong, men are acknowledged on Valentine's Day, but not nearly to the extent of women.

But I'd like to do something about that. We men would like to get gifts as well! Valentine's Day is supposed to be shared. Well, let's share evenly then!

For instance, a card. Receiving a card is very important to a woman - trust me, I've learned the hard way. Well guess what...men like cards as well. So ladies, why not pickup a card to exchange with your husband? Why not start with this one?  The Players Pass card is a card that can be used all year, not just put up on your mantle for a few days.  Sounds like a nice gift, right?  Well I'm not done yet...

What about a cute little stuffed animal?  These are always popular with the ladies.  But you know what?  Men like cute little stuffed animals as well.  But instead of cuddling with them, we prefer to stick our golf clubs up their rear-ends. 

Cute right? Don't you think you're man would appreciate this as well? 

Moving on to some other popular Valentine's gifts - how about flowers?  Believe it or not, men like flowers just about as much as women do.  The only difference being that men prefer the setting in which the flower lie rather than simply the flowers themselves.  See, women will put the flowers in a lovely vase and proudly display them on a table, shelf or whatever.  Men on the other hand prefer to view the flowers in a setting such as this:

Again, it's not just the flowers.  It's the setting that comes with the flowers.  And guess what - a round of golf on a nice course can cost just as much as that dozen roses that will be dead in a few days.

But the granddaddy of all Valentine's gifts is, of course, jewelry.  The onslaught of television commercials can be mind-numbing. And drilled into our heads is the mindset that woman's best friend is a diamond (while man's is a dog).  But let's not forget that men like diamonds as well.  While a woman's diamonds may be displayed hanging from her earlobes, around her neck or draped across her wrist, a golfing man's diamond may look a little different.  No, I'm not talking about Pure Spin golf clubs.  I'm talking about a certain little Turkish diamond - specifically Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa.

Now doesn't that look like a couples resort?  It's beautiful, luxurious and exotic.  I can't think of a better place for couples to do things on their own together!  "I'll play golf, you go to the spa!"  It's perfect!

So there you have it.  A little twist on Valentine's Day.  A way to make it more of a couples holiday than just a women's holiday.  OK, so it's not perfect.  I left out chocolate.  But hey, it's an imperfect holiday.  I'm just trying to add a bit of balance.   

Swing 'til you're happy!

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You Golf With What?

We here at Golfstinks.com are very proud of our glossary. You will see us use the various entries in our posts from time to time. Today happens to be one of those times. I always get a kick out of those people that don't quite use the right equipment to play and we have a term called tennis shoe crowd which pretty much describes them.

tennis shoe crowd [ t�nniss shoo krowd ]

phrase

persons whom play golf so infrequently, they do not sport the usual golf styles or equipment (these people are easily spotted on the course because they are playing with vintage garage sale clubs, wearing a t-shirt or wife-beater, jean shorts and donning tennis shoes).

There's one particular time that comes to mind when the group in front of us appeared to be perfect examples of the tennis shoe crowd. They had all the tell tale signs; the vintage clubs, the swing-and-a-miss stroke play, the screaming across the fairway "Hey, watch this!" etc...you get the point. Mind you, we were also playing a local par 3 executive course known to be very relaxed.

We were making our way around the course when we came to a back-up around the 8th hole. Here's our chance to get a close-up on the group in front of us and needless to say, I did not disappoint. Boy were we in for a treat. Never in my life did I see so many non golf equipment items be used for golf.

For starters, no one had a pair of golf shoes on. Not that golf shoes are absolutely necessary but, and I s#@$ you not, one guy had work boots on and his buddy was wearing football cleats. It gets better, Johnny Unitas over there also had an Under Armour receiver glove on and on top of that we over heard him swearing it was better than any golf glove. Hey, whatever floats your boat.

Ok, so you want to explore other options when it comes to golf equipment. Fine. Although, there comes a point where I draw the line especially when it comes to safety. One of the guys in front of us steps up to the tee box and that's where I noticed the duct tape holding his club head on. Come on, are you kidding me! Old or not, at least have a set of proper clubs. Luckily, no one felt the wrath of the flying club head, which by the way did come off. Ah yes, the tennis shoe crowd.

Hit'em long...yell FORE!!! Don't run with the crowd...

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DAWGS Golf Crossover Shoe; Versatile Comfort

So I spent my Super Bowl Sunday morning with a couple golf buddies at the indoor golf simulator, smacking balls into a screen that was projecting Teeth of the Dog Golf Course in the Dominican Republic.

And while we always have a good time at the indoor range, this wasn't just a social (or practice) session - I was also there on official Golfstinks business: I was tee-testing a new pair of DAWGS Golf shoes - the Men's Crossover (black).

Touting themselves as offering the "world's lightest golf shoe," DAWGS Golf doesn't sell your typical golf cleat. For starters, there's no leather - In fact, most of their shoes are constructed with Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), which gives them their lightweight properties (think Crocs with soft spikes).

However, when I was asked to review a pair of DAWGS, it was their Crossover shoe that caught my attention - the Crossovers are made of lightweight canvas and come in both black and (for the more adventuresome) houndstooth.

It wasn't just the looks of the Crossovers that caught my eye - it was the lack of a soft spike. Instead, the Crossovers feature rubber nubs that allow you to wear them both on and off the course - and that's what enticed me - that I could pull these out of my closet in the morning; drive to the course in them; play 18-holes in them; drive to the super market in them...etc, and never change my shoes!

But would they do their job on the links? (Their job, of course, is to provide both comfort and stability).

In short, my answer is yes. These Crossovers are super comfy (I actually wore them the entire day - from my round on the simulator through Tom Brady's incomplete end-zone Hail Mary) and there wasn't one slip on the teeing mat. In addition, they look pretty cool (I was wearing jeans during my test, but they look great with khakis too). At 50 bucks, these versatile shoes are well worth it.

That being said, I should add a couple caveats.

Obviously, the Crossover may not be the best shoe to wear in wet conditions. First of all they are canvas, so they will soak through. And secondly, with the rubber nubs, you may not get the stability on wet grass as you would with normal soft spikes.

Also, you may consider ordering a size up from what the measuring chart on their site tells you. They don't seem to come in half-sizes, so DAWGS Golf provides a chart to show how to measure your foot to decide which size to buy. I measured and (according to their chart) was a 9. I went with 9 and it's a smidgen tight. But when I re-read the chart for this post (after the fact), I noticed it recommends to order a size up (so, I probably should have gone with a 10).

Both of these issues seemed minor in my mind though (after all, I wore my slightly tight size 9's without complaining all day). So, I definitley recommend giving them a try if you're in the market for a multipurpose golf shoe.

And if you are, then you're in luck, because DAWGS Golf has agreed to give one of our Facebook fans a free pair of black Crossovers! Check our Facebook Page for details!

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Golf On Super Bowl Sunday?

Well, that was my favorite day of the year. People always ask others, "What's your favorite holiday?" Generally I answer with Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas, depending upon...well, actually I don't know what it depends upon. My answer just tends to change. But I think I'm going to start being more consistent with my response. From this point on, my answer is going to be Super Bowl Sunday.

After all, I think more people celebrate, or gather for Super Bowl Sunday than any other holiday. People of all race, religion and sex celebrate the championship game of the greatest spectator sport going. Even people who aren't really into football are there for the celebration! And whether the game is competitive or not, it doesn't make a difference. My eyes are pretty much glued to the TV until the final whistle...and then some.

But even on Super Bowl Sunday, I'll still make some time for another love - golf. Not a real round, it's too cold for that and it takes too long. I can't have any potential interruptions to either the game or the preparations leading up to it. I'm talking about indoor golf. Or, more specifically, the golf simulator.
,br>Now, I've mentioned before that I believe the simulator is more of a giant game video game than it is a useful tool. It's inaccurate distance-wise, doesn't have a real "golf course feel" obviously, and I'm not sure how accurate it is a far slices and hooks. But that doesn't make it any less fun! And much like regular golf, that's all I'm really there for. So when the invitation was extended earlier in the week, I was in immediately.

But I think using the simulator is more than just a game too. It's a way to get a few swings in over the winter. It will help me to stay in "golf shape" so I don't hit the course next season looking like I've never swung a club in my life. But then I think to myself..."Who am I kidding? I don't really give a crap about that. I just want to play a big video game!" I've still got a whole lot of kid in my heart, so the simulator is right up my alley...and I'm not going to pass up the opportunity.

But...the tee-time was beginning to cut things a little close. After all, it is Super Bowl Sunday still. But for the golf simulator I'm willing to risk cutting into a little bit of prep time. We had to change the tee-time twice. One more change and I may have had to backout. I have also mentioned before, for me, golf takes a backseat to football. And that's real golf! The simulator has no chance!

But I was there. I was there on Super Bowl Sunday. On the greatest day of the year for sports fans, I made sure to squeeze in a little bit of golf. Even if it was just a video game, nonetheless, I was there...

Swing 'til you're happy!

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Office Putts

A couple golf seasons ago Stinky Golfer Chris posted about betting on the course. He touched upon the various betting games we can par-take in as we play (i.e. Nassau, Wolf, Chicago, etc.). Now, I'm sure at some point most of us have come across the golfer in the group that wants to make the round more "interesting." Well, these gambling golfers have a way of convincing us we actually have a chance of winning, don't they? Those fairway sharks will get you every time.

Whatever the case may be, the chance of winning money is always intriguing. This is why we (my co-workers and I) have taken the idea of betting and golf from the course and brought it to the office environment. Playing off of the title "Office Putts," we have created a game called "Office Putz." I'm guessing you're wondering how to play.

Glad you asked. You will need one of those indoor putting cups, like this: We use the cup and not an indoor putting carpet/green because A) it's a lot cheaper B) our office is carpeted and C) our putts vary in distance, some almost 30 feet. Obviously, you will need a putter and some golf balls. Most importantly you will need a couple of suckers. Hey, it makes for good lunch hour entertainment because we only play at that time...just in case my boss is reading this.

Ok, the idea is not to be the office putz. Here's how it goes down, quite simple I might add; two or more people bet on if a person can make a putt. You either bet with or against the person, obviously. You can bet a dollar or two per putt but we like to bet something way better than money - push-ups. Yep, push-ups. Not only are we betting push-ups, but these push-ups are "on command".

I think you are getting the idea here. The loser of the bet will owe the winner X amount of push-ups (usually 5-10 per putt) as well as take on the title of office putz. It's absolutely hysterical to hear "Hey office putz, gimme 5 now!" as we are waiting for our sandwich at the deli.

Hit'em long...yell FORE!!! Don't be a putz!

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Book Review: G.O.L.F.

Does the acronym G.O.L.F. stand for "Greatest Of Life's Frustrations" or "Game Of Limitless Fun?" Well, the author of G.O.L.F., Lane H. Luoma, will tell you it stands for both (and I think I agree).

I loved this book! I'm not sure how, but Mr. Luoma has figured out how to put down into words every single thought that's ever crossed a golfer's mind - it's truly a rollocking read! What is more, he's done a rather good job penning this book to appeal to the non-golfer too.

In the preface, Mr. Luoma states "you certainly don't have to be a golfer to enjoy this book..." After reading that statement, I thought, "sure, what non-golfer is going to take the time to read this book?" But in all honesty, this book would greatly help those non-golfers understand the ups and downs their golfing buddies (or significant others) experience.

G.O.L.F. takes you on a journey of the game from those of us who experience it - from the pros to the Joes, the book levels the playing field, ignores handicaps and explains why everyone who's ever played this game can be frustrated beyond imagination, yet still overwhelmingly smitten with it all at the same time.

For example, let's take Chapter 8: "Warning! Hazardous to your Health (Mental)." The chapter takes you through an entire round, hole-by-hole, giving examples of what a terrible score you can end up with just because of strategicly-placed hazards (bunkers, lateral water, etc.). Yet after 17 nightmarish holes, you birdie the unbelievably difficult par 5, 18th-hole to finish on a high note and restore your love of the game. That, my friends, is golf.

From how luck (both good and bad) can affect your game; to being at the mercy of Mother Nature; to taking a look at some of the more interesting rules; G.O.L.F. lays-it-out as you've never read it before (oh, you may have thought it, but seeing on the printed page is a totally different experience).

Mr. Luoma takes golfers and non-golfers alike on a facinating voyage into what it really means to play this game - from chagrin to euphoria, it's all in this book.

You can purchase Mr. Luoma's book on the G.O.L.F. website, along with some other merchandise, including framed prints from the awesome artwork contained within its pages (I totally want that "Believe" print).

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