The Masters 2012 Preview: The Eve of Augusta

Posted on April 4, 2012 by

Welcome to Augusta National


First my apologies, for the year absence of writing, but what a way to come back, its Masters Week!

From the immense and beautiful magnolias, to the famous Oak Tree standing right near the clubhouse, there is no golf course or landmark like Augusta National. For me, seeing these trees is almost like a tourist seeing the tree at Rockefeller Center around Christmas time, breath taking.

That’s because as a golfer, and a golf fan, The Masters is our Christmas. And this year is something special. The field hasn’t been this competitive in years. For the last few years, it’s always been: Tiger or Phil. Although they headline again, there are many other names that stand out: Rory McIlroy, Luke Donald, Keegan Bradley, Hunter Mahan, Webb Simpson, Adam Scott etc. Unfortunately the Masters lost a great player this weekend in Dustin Johnson, who withdrew due to a back injury. Regardless, the best thing about all these players is their youth. The youth will breed this weekend with long drives, countless energy, and maybe a first-time champion. But of course every Masters has its storylines:

Will Tiger hold off Rory? Will Luke Donald or Lee Westwood finally win a major? What if Steve Williams wins with Adam Scott? On this special weekend of golf lets not even dissect the drama. Augusta is defined as a course with: class, beauty, and a pure atmosphere. If golf fans get engulfed in the extra storylines or drama, we will not be able to appreciate the beauty that is Augusta National. This tournament and this course are being prepared for all year round, it’s a scene for the ages. The Masters always leaves the opportunity for that feeling of “I remember I was here, doing this, while he did that.” For me, I can tell you exactly where I was sitting, what I was eating, who I was with in two specific instances: Tiger’s chip-in vs. Rocco Mediate, and Phil’s miraculous second shot out of the wood chips on the 13th, which started his path to victory. So if I could take this time to give advice to any fans: take it in. Forgo some weekend activities, and just watch this golf tournament. Try to learn more about Augusta National, because it is more than just a golf course. It is something magical.

Now for what everyone loves…the prediction. If you followed my writing for these past years you already know who I am picking: Tiger Woods. In past years, Tiger was my pick because of pure bias of him as my favorite player. But this year there is something different. With a pressure win at Chevron and the triumph at Bay Hill, his game and most importantly his head and swagger look back. I don’t see him blowing away the field within the first two days, but going into Sunday I can see Tiger with a four-stroke lead, and winning with just that. BUT if Tiger were to not win, you always need the backup…no it’s not Rory, or Phil….it’s Keegan Bradley. This kid has got game. I feel like every time I look to a scoreboard he is always up there, and in the mix. With a big major with at the PGA last year, Keegan knows how to beat this field. But we will see if the pressure of his first trip Augusta National affects him, as it sure will to others.

Like a kid on Christmas Eve night, I’m out. It is going to be a long 24 hours as the anticipation to watch the spectacle that is the Masters at Augusta National grows; Enjoy!

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Augusta National; The Masters: 2011 Preview

Posted on April 7, 2011 by

The Beauty that is Augusta National

Golf and the surrounding world sporadically change as time goes on, but one thing that is always constant is the hype, excitement, and competitive nature of the Masters. Augusta National, being the most prominent, known, and loved golf course amongst our nation, helps to establish the beauty, class, and popularity of this event. The Master’s being the first of four majors in the golf year is one of the best traditions in all of sports. Each round is electrifying, providing great weekend entertainment for any person. In 2011, as every other year, there are so many stories, possibilities, and expectations for the golf world to look forward to:

The same old question: Will this be Tiger’s weekend?
All signs point to no. But in my mind, it will be his weekend. From his problems in his life, to his problems with his swing, Tiger is very unstable. TW just seems to be a very inconsistent golfer and person, and it shows in his game. You might be asking yourself: So how on earth can he fix these problems on a course like Augusta, and at a tournament like the Masters? Well although Augusta National is the biggest stage in golf, it can also be any golfers sanctuary. Last year, after the worst 6 months of his life, we saw Tiger finally begin his season at Augusta. And even in the midst of all his problems, Tiger Woods came to compete. During the 2010 Masters it seemed as if Augusta put Tiger at peace. Ending in 4th place only five strokes back of Phil Mickelson for the win, Tiger was impressive. So now with his divorce finalized, more practice under his belt, and a new girlfriend, Tiger seems to be getting back to his old self. The timing of the Masters has given him a chance to solidify and finalize his recuperation process…and he knows it. He started his dominance as a young golfer at Augusta, and at this years Master’s I think the course will help him settle down and recapture his control of the golf world.

Oh and don’t forget who would be putting the green jacket on Tiger…Phil. Woods would love to have that moment: come back, defeat Phil, and stand again as the number one golfer in the world.

Expect to this in reverse on Sunday


LEFTY, LEFTY: Can we see a Mickelson repeat?
Phil is always a favorite to win because of two very important factors: his motivation and his risk. Whether it’s his cancer stricken family members, being his mother-in-law and his wife, Phil has the most motivation and passion out of any golfer. The memory of Phil embracing his wife Amy after his victory last year was so touching, and memorable. That moment will be engraved in the minds of golf fans forever. I am sure he would love to win another for her, and repeat that breathtaking moment.
It was his second shot on the par five 13th. With his ball in the mulch, and lying behind a tree, Phil should’ve just punched it out, and settled for par. But no, that’s not his game. Hitting one of the best shots I’ve ever seen, he hit the ball around the tree, landing it feet from the pin, tapping in for eagle. This was the turning point for Phil’s 2010 Masters. Right at that moment I knew he was going to win. The risk that Lefty took last year, and always takes in his game can be disastrous, but in these major tournaments, a golfer, as he has proved, needs to take these risks in order to reap the rewards. If there is anyone in the field who I can trust with an extremely difficult shot, and a risky decision, it’s Phil Mickelson.

Who will be the new world number one?
With six players (Woods, Mickelson, Kaymer, Westwood, McDowell, Donald) able to gain the number one ranking this weekend, which has the best chance? We all know the ability of Phil and Tiger, but how will the others fair? Martin Kaymer, the current number one, didn’t even make the cut at the 2010 Masters. To come back and win, especially at Augusta, would be amazing, but I don’t see it happening. Especially since Kaymer has recently showed very lackadaisical play. Luke Donald, who won the 2011 Accenture Match Play this year, has proven he can beat the best and be the best, but again he didn’t make the cut last year either, so Augusta could continue to be a problem. But in my eyes, Graeme McDowell (who also missed the 2010 cut) and Lee Westwood have been the most consistent, poised, and competent golfers of the last year. With the all the attention on Tiger and Phil, and all the pressure on Kaymer, I expect these two guys to shine. McDowell, who has a major win under his belt, understands the pressure of major tournaments, and will definitely be able to look past his 2010 performance and make the cut, if not win the whole thing. In opposition, Westwood, who does not have a major in his list of accomplishments, should be looked at as a favorite to walk away with a green jacket and the number one ranking. Lee Westwood, who is consistently in the top 3 in majority of tournaments he plays, will be searching for vengeance at Augusta this year, in order to get past his runner-up finish at last years Masters.

What about the rookies?
Rickie Fowler and Johnny Vegas cannot be overlooked. Although it is their first Masters, and the pressure and hype can be overwhelming, they each have proved that they have the play and mindset to surpass any obstacle. Vegas who has been looking like a young Tiger, has been very impressive in 2011. With a win under his belt, and many top five finishes, Johnny Vegas is a force to be reckoning with and I can definitely see him obtaining a green jacket. His fellow Masters first-timer, Rickie Fowler, who has become a fan favorite, drives the ball like no other. Although it seems that he has had trouble obtaining a victory in 2011, Augusta could provide a great place for him to jump-start his year, and his career. The only problem is the PGA better have a green puma hat to go with his green jacket.

As soon as this weekend ends, the world will have to wait another year for the Masters, so please just sit back, relax, and embrace the beauty and excitement that is the Masters at Augusta National; it’s going to be a hell of a tournament.

The Tee Box Predictions:

Winner: Tiger Woods

Runner-Up: Lee Westwood

Dark Horse: Hunter Mahan

Most Memorable Shot: Phil Mickelson

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Vegas Baby Vegas!

Posted on February 11, 2011 by

Johnny Drama meet Johnny Vegas

In the second season of the HBO hit series “Entourage”, one of main characters known as Johnny “Drama” ends the episode “My Maserati Does 185″, with the quote “Vegas Baby Vegas!” This left suspense and excitement for the next week’s episode. The same quote goes for the potential PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, Jhonattan Vegas. At the end of each tournament he’s been in, it always ends with a “Vegas baby Vegas” moment. He plays like a veteran tour player. Winning once already, and finishing third in the Farmers Insurance Open, Vegas is one of the most exciting players on tour and just like Drama in Entourage, he brings a new energy to the PGA, and leaves fans wanting more. Reppin’ the Texas Longhorn on his shirt, where he played collegiately, Vegas has become “The Rock” of the PGA. When first entering the WWF “The Rock” was the hottest commodity. So not only do they both represent the Texas Longhorn, but they both took early control of their respective sport. Vegas has won two events since turning professional in 2008. First, being the Preferred Health Systems Wichita Open on the Nationwide tour, and the second, yet most recent being, the Bob Hope Classic of the PGA Tour. The most impressive aspect of Vegas’ game is his ability to continue with consistency. One week after winning the Bob Hope, he came back out, beat Tiger Woods when paired with him, and eventually finished third in the Farmers Insurance Open. Vegas could have almost won the Farmers if not for an unfortunate water penalty on the Par 5, 18th.
Vegas is a big guy for golf. Standing at 6 ft 2, weighing in at 230 lbs, his physique is not that of the traditional golfer. But his physical stature is what helps him stroke through the ball, and has helped lead him to having one of the most powerful and lengthy drives in the game today. Vegas is just another international great, as he is a native from Venezuela. A young player with a lot of ability, he is of course sponsored by Nike. Vegas consistently rocks the Nike attire, and uses all Nike clubs. Although still looking for the exact clubs to consistently use, Vegas has mostly been sticking with the Nike VR Pro-Blade Irons and Nike VR Pro Driver.
Johnny Vegas has been the story of the 2011 PGA Tour Season, and he will continue to be for a long time, that’s for sure. Vegas should be an early and confident pick to be a major winner within the next few years. If I can leave the readers with one thing regarding Johnny Vegas and his play its this: “Vegas Baby Vegas”….just like Johnny Drama, he’ll get you extremely excited and involved, but always leave you wanting more.

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It’s That Time Again: Ryder Cup 2010

Posted on September 28, 2010 by


USA v Europe: Each team has some players who have had successful, unsuccessful, and surprising 2010 seasons. It should be a great year for the Ryder Cup. The tournament isn’t around every year so it’s competition and existence should be celebrated. This is the golf Olympics; to see so many great players from all over the world competing for the pride of their country is amazing. This year the Ryder Cup is being held at the Celtic Manor in Newport, Wales. The newly created and renovated course was made with the Ryder Cup in mind. The Celtic Manor is hoping to become the face of the Ryder Cup for years to come, so fans and players should be excited to see the challenge, beauty, and response of the golf course. The Celtic Manor ranks in at 7378 yards, with par being 71. The course starts both the front and back nine with holes of par 3,4, and 5. Its strategic hole placement should give players a good variation and challenge to start off their rounds. The longest and hardest hole on the course is the par five second, that is about 610 yards. Is that good for players? It’s a crapshoot, some may be glad to get the hole over with early, while others depending on their score could get amped or discouraged early, which could make or break a round. Either way the Celtic Manor should make for an excellent venue and I’m sure the players are excited. Now for the teams:

Team USA:
Consistency is what defines the 2010 Ryder Cup for the USA. Players such as Dustin Johnson, Matt Kuchar, Bubba Watson, and Zach Johnson have all won respective tournaments, but at the same time have rarely finished out of the top ten. Obviously their play is at an all time high and should continue as it did throughout the whole season. Now, those players were the consistently good, but there has also been the consistently bad. More recently being Phil Mickelson, but in addition players such as Tiger Woods and Stewart Cink. The token veterans have had some impressive finishes but rarely are in the top ten or in any contention at all. Nonetheless, Team USA has a pretty balanced roster, and each player has had their own individual successes in their careers. So look for the consistency and veteran guidance lead this team to victory.

Team Europe:
The great thing about the Ryder Cup is the competition. There is no “outright” favorite. Team USA is good and intimidating, but their opponent has just as many capable and proven players. Padraig Harrington, who this year was almost a nonfactor, is still a great golfer and among the best in the world. Combined with Lee Westwood, they should be great leaders for this European team. Following them are three major winners: The fellow Irishman Graeme McDowell (US Open), Louis Oosthuzien (British Open), and Matt Kuchar (PGA Championship). McDowell, who is one of the best collegiate golfers ever really came alive this year with a major victory in the PGA Tour, and also several impressive performances in the European tour. But personally, I think the big players of the European team are the Molinari brothers. Edoardo and Francesco Molinari have become some of the biggest and most consistent threats in the golf world, by continuing their consistent play the brothers should put some heavy pressure on the American team. Rory Mcilroy, is the young gun of the team. He may have made a mistake by calling out Tiger, hopefully Rory can back his words or that can be trouble for him and his team….Team Europe may not have the “big names”, but they do have great players. Look for the unity and “silent assassin” attitude to help them in their quest for the Ryder Cup.

Rory meet Tiger


Prediction: Tiger gets fueled by Rory’s comments and plays his best tournament of the year. By following Tiger, and the accompanying veteran leadership….Team USA wins again.

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Baseball meets the PGA

Posted on August 18, 2010 by

The Infamous Shot

Yes rules are rules, but some are just ridiculous. This refers to the call made in the PGA Championship against Dustin Johnson. For those of you who didn’t see it or hear of it, what basically happened was that at the course, Whistling Straits, there are “man-made” and “involuntary” sand traps. These traps can be walked on, tramped on, and dug into by the committee throughout play. But if a player were to land in them, the player must play it as a trap. On the 17th hole, Dustin Johnson who was basically locked in for the playoff, landed in one of these so-called traps and grounded his club, which we all know is a penalty in golf. Not realizing till after the PGA video reviewed and gave him the penalty, making him lose contention for the playoff and finish in 5th place. So the question I have is: is this not ridiculous?

Why is this called a sand trap? The committee and fans are able to walk all over it and ruin it. Is that allowed in sand traps made on purpose? No. If it’s the rule for one trap. it should be the rule for all traps. I mean why doesn’t the PGA just let people stand where ever they want? Go on the green, who cares. Everybody cares. That is why this ruling is ridiculous. Sand traps are sand traps, and should be designated and purposefully made, not just sprung about by the doings of the committee. These “dirt patches” are created from foot traffic by the fans and somehow are transformed in to the play of sand traps. That’s not right and that’s not fair. I know the ruling was proposed, publicized, and repeated before the tournament, but that’s not the point. The point is getting it right, or selecting a course that won’t give these confusing scenarios. Golf was made to be played without confusing and replay, that’s for baseball and football. Hopefully the PGA will consider changing this rule before the year 2015. In 2015 the PGA Championship will return to Whistling Straits. I’m sure players aren’t happy about that, especially Dustin Johnson, who was the player involved in the “PGA Snub of 2010.”

Sorry Dustin.

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Hmm…Was that Worth it?- The Aggressive Golfer

Posted on August 17, 2010 by

Being Over-Aggressive can lead to frustration.

Should I hit through the trees, or just punch it out? Is it worth using my 6 from the sand? Can I make it over the water? These are just some classic examples of questions a golfer will ask themselves. If you are an aggressive golfer than the answer to majority of those questions would be yes. But afterwards you will always be left thinking “was it worth it?” Only your shot can answer that. If you hit an amazing, most likely rare shot than yes, it was worth it; but if you miss your target by hitting a tree, duffing it out of the sand, or landing in the water, then no, it wasn’t worth it. In my opinion, being aggressive is a sign of confidence, while including some stupidity. For example, last week at the PGA Championship, Bubba Watson used his aggressive strategy to hit his ball over the water and basically seal the win. But as we all know he actually landed in the water, and lost. In that instance his aggressive style was really just his stupidity, as he cost himself the tournament. When it comes to being aggressive, the strategy that is most helpful is to use what I call the “30% rule.” “The “30% rule” outlines that out of 10 shots, if you will successfully hit the shot 7 out of 10 times than do it. If you think that you will fail more than 3 times, you might as well not. A 30% failure rate is relatively high in golf, and if you surpass that than you are an super aggressive golfer. Now that does not mean to be completely conservative, but go 50/50 with it. On some shots, take the risk try to make that miraculous shot, and on others use the safe play. Don’t use driver on every hole, professionals don’t even do that. If there is a hole, which is, dogleg right and cuts at about 180 yards out, why use a driver? Use a driver and you hit the ball either in that sand trap strategically placed at the brink of the cusp, or in the woods at the back of the cut. By using a wood, you’ll place it perfectly, and set up a nice look at the green. I won’t lie; I tend to be more aggressive. My play mirrors that of Phil Mickelson at Winged Foot, or that displayed in the movie Tin Cup with Kevin Costner. I love proving shots to myself, but sometimes golf must be more than hitting that miraculous shot you’ve dreamed of or believed in, it’s about smarts. Just be smart when you play, and remember big risks equal big rewards…….but also, big consequences.

What do you guys think about aggressive play? Sign up and let us know!

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Martin Whistles While he Wins

Posted on August 16, 2010 by

25 Year Old, Martin Kaymer

The PGA Championship was arguably the most exciting major of the year. Not only did fans see young tour players take control, fans also got to see competitive rounds from the crafty veterans. So many twist and turns were involved in this tournament. Tiger was up, Tiger was down; Phil was up, Phil was down. It seemed as if every shot gave the audience a suspenseful vigilance. But the most notable story of the tournament must be the overcoming youth, which topped the leader board and headlined the 3-Hole Playoff. The champion, Martin Kaymer, at the young age of 25 captured his first major championship. But in addition could have sparked the youth movement in the golf world. Not only was Kaymer the only “youngin” to atop the leader board there was also Rory McIlroy (21) and Dustin Johnson (26). Kaymer was able to win his three hole playoff with Bubba Watson by playing conservative, and sinking putts. After being down one stroke on the Par 4 10th, Kaymer came out on the 17th with a great approach on the Par 3, but an even better birdie putt to pull himself back to even with Bubba. On the 18th and final hole the style of play really became the main factor. Watson following his aggressive style tried to clear the lateral hazard from a wicked lie, and came up just short. This gave Kaymer the opportunity to play extremely conservative and just settle for par. Although Kaymer actually bogeyed the hole, it was still enough to hold on for victory, as Watson was only a pin seeker on his tying chip attempt from the sand. Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are usually the topics of discussion, but neither can seem to find any consistency. But what is consistent is the change coming to golf. It’s time for fans, players, and the world to realize that there is a new era coming to golf, the era of the young guns.

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