Smartphones have a way of reducing the gadgets you need to carry with you. Besides calling and texting, the phone has the ability to do things that its predecessor could only dream of. Not only can you use your phone to listen to music, take pictures, update your facebook status, you can now use your smartphone as a to store your golf scores and as a golf GPS device.
My friend recently showed me the TeeDroid Caddy, which she promised me you can download at no charge. All you are required to do is to register at their website. Usually apps could be found in both iPhone and Android-based smartphone. If it only exist for one type of smartphone, it is more likely the app is only iPhone supported. While this app is available for different platforms, the designer chooses to focus on Android to develop this app further.
So if like me, you are an Android smartphone user and a golfer, than reap the benefit that this app provides. It listed many of the golf courses in United States and Europe and the necessary statistic that only a caddy seem to know. It shows you where the sandpit is before you can even see it. As the app calculates the distance (using GSP) to tell you how far the front, middle or the bank of the green is, it helps in choosing which club to us.
So here is to app designers loyal to Android!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
There is a (Golf) App for That
I recently upgraded to a smart phone and was able to download some golf apps. I guess I shouldn't be surprise at the wide array of golf apps available. The apps cover a wide spectrum. There is games, ways to keep golf score, information on golf scores and tools to help analyze your swing.
What caught my attention was an app called Golf Swing Form Check. Using a photo shot of your swing, with this app, you area able to draw lines to check if you have the right posture, angles etc. Fortunately, the buttons have picture to show what it is for because the words on the apps is actually all in Japanese. So while someone who doesn't know Japanese would not recognize the word for draw, the picture of a pencil would help the person make an educated guess.
I am eager to try it out, but weather would not permit (besides the temperature only being in the teens, the golf courses and ranges are all covered with at least 3 to 5 inches of snow. But looking at the reviews from people who have used it before, the positive reviews out-number the negative ones.
Besides it is free. If I don't really like it after trying it I only need to delete it.
What caught my attention was an app called Golf Swing Form Check. Using a photo shot of your swing, with this app, you area able to draw lines to check if you have the right posture, angles etc. Fortunately, the buttons have picture to show what it is for because the words on the apps is actually all in Japanese. So while someone who doesn't know Japanese would not recognize the word for draw, the picture of a pencil would help the person make an educated guess.
I am eager to try it out, but weather would not permit (besides the temperature only being in the teens, the golf courses and ranges are all covered with at least 3 to 5 inches of snow. But looking at the reviews from people who have used it before, the positive reviews out-number the negative ones.
Besides it is free. If I don't really like it after trying it I only need to delete it.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Golf Instructions
I was fortunate. When I first took up golf, it was through golf classes organized by Colorado State University. The university had an arrangement with City Park Nine and Doug Perry, PGA Professional, walk us through from how to swing a putter all the way to a correcting our swing.
Golfers who looked for instructions without recommendations may find it difficult to decide who to go with. All golf courses have a list of instructors that they can recommend, but how to choose which to go with? The prices range so widely that most people's can find something that fit their budget.
For some good advise visit Golf Training Exercises. It gives good advise to someone who is starting off. They provide lessons on basic golf, golf tips and how to choose a good instructor. Not sure if golf lesson is necessary or would even help? The website has something to say on that.
Broke after buying all the golf gear? Relax. The website provides virtual golf lessons as well.
Golfers who looked for instructions without recommendations may find it difficult to decide who to go with. All golf courses have a list of instructors that they can recommend, but how to choose which to go with? The prices range so widely that most people's can find something that fit their budget.
For some good advise visit Golf Training Exercises. It gives good advise to someone who is starting off. They provide lessons on basic golf, golf tips and how to choose a good instructor. Not sure if golf lesson is necessary or would even help? The website has something to say on that.
Broke after buying all the golf gear? Relax. The website provides virtual golf lessons as well.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Inexpensive Forms of Golf Exercise
My last post assumed that you have access to Fort Collins Club which has the golf stretch exercise cage available. What if you don't have membership at Fort Collins Club? Well I search the web for golf exercise that would help improve your golf game.
I found two videos that give good golf exercises. The first is a short routine which would be able to fit into most people's life style.
For those who are more disciple in their exercise routine might prefer this 20 minutes golf exercise workout.
It you need an exercise routine that focus on a particular area of your game, check out the videos by Cochran Golf Fitness. He has one for core stability, thoracic spine mobility, hip mobility and strength, and hamstring flexibility. He actually has more than what I have listed so if you are looking for other areas of golf exercises, search for it in youtube and you might just find what you are looking for.
I found two videos that give good golf exercises. The first is a short routine which would be able to fit into most people's life style.
For those who are more disciple in their exercise routine might prefer this 20 minutes golf exercise workout.
It you need an exercise routine that focus on a particular area of your game, check out the videos by Cochran Golf Fitness. He has one for core stability, thoracic spine mobility, hip mobility and strength, and hamstring flexibility. He actually has more than what I have listed so if you are looking for other areas of golf exercises, search for it in youtube and you might just find what you are looking for.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Stretching for Golf
I was visiting Fort Collins Club when I came across two interesting looking cage. It is a golf stretching cage.
It has horizontal, vertical and diagonal bars with a step. The equipment comes with exercises to strengthen different aspects of the golf game. Need a stronger grip or improve your swing? The exercises are broken into different groups based on what you wish you to strengthen.
I tried a few of the exercise and it makes exercising fun. Unfortunately I didn't realize how much strength I was exerting and had to pay with it by my aching muscles.
The cage might be too big for most houses but it's definitely beneficial for golfers to have access to it in the gym.
It has horizontal, vertical and diagonal bars with a step. The equipment comes with exercises to strengthen different aspects of the golf game. Need a stronger grip or improve your swing? The exercises are broken into different groups based on what you wish you to strengthen.
I tried a few of the exercise and it makes exercising fun. Unfortunately I didn't realize how much strength I was exerting and had to pay with it by my aching muscles.
The cage might be too big for most houses but it's definitely beneficial for golfers to have access to it in the gym.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Golf Leagues
Working full-time and being a full-time student demands time management and looking way ahead. I have been known for last minute items but in order to make sense of my crazy world, I usually have to keep these to a bare minimum.
I have heard how fun golf leagues are, so I decided to check them out. Collindale Golf Course has some leagues in 2011 that perk my interest. Mondays Misfits and Wednesdays “No Pressure League” sounds promising to me.
Leagues are fun because you get to meet new people. In some leagues you are paired with a different team each week, and you get to improve your game and learn new tips. More importantly, you get to socialize and meet people that has the same interest to you.
So maybe you don’t have much time to spare (like me), but after joining one, you might be glad you made the time.
I have heard how fun golf leagues are, so I decided to check them out. Collindale Golf Course has some leagues in 2011 that perk my interest. Mondays Misfits and Wednesdays “No Pressure League” sounds promising to me.
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| Collindale Golf Course |
Leagues are fun because you get to meet new people. In some leagues you are paired with a different team each week, and you get to improve your game and learn new tips. More importantly, you get to socialize and meet people that has the same interest to you.
So maybe you don’t have much time to spare (like me), but after joining one, you might be glad you made the time.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Wii Tiger Woods PGA Tour Video Game
I like Thanksgiving. For once I don’t have to worry about cooking great food. All I had to do was turn up at my friend’s place, because she is a fantastic cook. Usually after the special meal, we would sit around and enjoy the football game.
This year, instead of the game, I get to play Wii Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 game. I played a PS2 game years ago that is kind of similar and was only somewhat impress. This game, on the other hand, blew my low expectations away. It almost felt like the real thing. I see Tiger Woods adjusting his clubs as I twisted my wrist while holding the Wii Remote. The image was imitating my actions! That was incredible.
The game also took into account real weather situation. If it is windy or raining at the real location, it will be the exact same kind of weather projected in my game. I was told the game is able to do that through the help of the Weather Channel. However, if you rather not have the challenge of the weather, you are also able to switch the feature off.
What amazes me most is that this game is actually two years old. There is already a Tiger Woods PGA Tours: The Masters out since March of this year. I am sure there will be something a little more advanced coming out soon to make that game old.
So will I go out and get myself the newest version. I don’t know, because I really like this one a lot. Unfortunately, I am such a terrible player and Tiger Woods scored so badly, he might just pay me never to play it again.
This year, instead of the game, I get to play Wii Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 game. I played a PS2 game years ago that is kind of similar and was only somewhat impress. This game, on the other hand, blew my low expectations away. It almost felt like the real thing. I see Tiger Woods adjusting his clubs as I twisted my wrist while holding the Wii Remote. The image was imitating my actions! That was incredible.
The game also took into account real weather situation. If it is windy or raining at the real location, it will be the exact same kind of weather projected in my game. I was told the game is able to do that through the help of the Weather Channel. However, if you rather not have the challenge of the weather, you are also able to switch the feature off.
What amazes me most is that this game is actually two years old. There is already a Tiger Woods PGA Tours: The Masters out since March of this year. I am sure there will be something a little more advanced coming out soon to make that game old.
So will I go out and get myself the newest version. I don’t know, because I really like this one a lot. Unfortunately, I am such a terrible player and Tiger Woods scored so badly, he might just pay me never to play it again.
Monday, November 28, 2011
World Golf Tour Online Game
It's winter, and unless you live in southern region, very likely the weather is a little too cold for golf. USGA is well aware of that and has a free online golf game for all golfers to enjoy.
The game is played in the beautiful and difficult courses that the professionals play. You need your skill as a golf to know how hard to hit and where to hit. Since my golf skill isn't too impressive, the game kept prompting me to take lessons to improve my game.
The golf lessons is divided into different heading such as how to read the lie, how to choose the right clubs and putting spin on the ball. When you are on the green, arrows will appear showing the lie of the green to help you make a more educated choice.
After each hole, you are shown your golf card and you came watch the replay to see how you can improve it. The game also rate your game and put you in the level that you are in. As you improve, you are allowed better clubs etc.
As you play, you can win some strange awards. I have won the green thumb award in the 3rd hole and the tin cup award in the 2nd hole. As I have never heard these award before I am not sure if the game was trying to encourage me as I inch myself towards being better or it is a random award that they issue to players.
Even though it is just an online golf game, missing the hole is still just as frustrating. The game looks realistic and I have fun playing with it. Maybe you will too.
The game is played in the beautiful and difficult courses that the professionals play. You need your skill as a golf to know how hard to hit and where to hit. Since my golf skill isn't too impressive, the game kept prompting me to take lessons to improve my game.
The golf lessons is divided into different heading such as how to read the lie, how to choose the right clubs and putting spin on the ball. When you are on the green, arrows will appear showing the lie of the green to help you make a more educated choice.
After each hole, you are shown your golf card and you came watch the replay to see how you can improve it. The game also rate your game and put you in the level that you are in. As you improve, you are allowed better clubs etc.
As you play, you can win some strange awards. I have won the green thumb award in the 3rd hole and the tin cup award in the 2nd hole. As I have never heard these award before I am not sure if the game was trying to encourage me as I inch myself towards being better or it is a random award that they issue to players.
Even though it is just an online golf game, missing the hole is still just as frustrating. The game looks realistic and I have fun playing with it. Maybe you will too.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
All I Want For Christmas Is Some New Golf Gear
You have been out shopping – buying presents for your friends and family for Christmas. You have gotten gift for everyone and now your wallet is far too light to buy yourself some new clubs or golf gear that you have promised yourself.
Before you look up to the sky and cry out “WHY?” just don’t despair just yet. Have you thought about second hand stores that might have what you need?
Buy second hand! Before images of crooked clubs and such stuff feels your head and you can’t think straight, let me make my case. Are you aware that there are websites that cater to good pre-owned golf clubs? Maybe the former owners upgrade and didn’t need their previous clubs. Or maybe the item was traded in for newer models. Callaway has a website that is dedicated to pre-owned golf gear.
Prefer more choices than just Callaway? How about Global Golf Online Superstore or 2nd Swing that deals only with used golf gear. That means they would be conscious of their reputation and therefore the products they sell.
You can hope someone thought of buying you the new gear you hope to get for Christmas … or you could check out these websites and see if they have something that would fit your needs and budget.
Before you look up to the sky and cry out “WHY?” just don’t despair just yet. Have you thought about second hand stores that might have what you need?
Buy second hand! Before images of crooked clubs and such stuff feels your head and you can’t think straight, let me make my case. Are you aware that there are websites that cater to good pre-owned golf clubs? Maybe the former owners upgrade and didn’t need their previous clubs. Or maybe the item was traded in for newer models. Callaway has a website that is dedicated to pre-owned golf gear.
Prefer more choices than just Callaway? How about Global Golf Online Superstore or 2nd Swing that deals only with used golf gear. That means they would be conscious of their reputation and therefore the products they sell.
You can hope someone thought of buying you the new gear you hope to get for Christmas … or you could check out these websites and see if they have something that would fit your needs and budget.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Insurance for Getting Hole-in-One
Most Americans feel they are forced to buy too much insurance. There is the compulsory car insurance, you drive, house or rental insurance, the expensive health insurance and for some people, the very necessary life insurance. But do you know that as golfers there is a golf insurance especially created for you.
At first I thought golf insurance is for insuring the clubs or golf cart against damage or thieve, but I was wrong. Golf insurance covers more than that. It covers loss of equipment, damages, injuries … and hole-in-one.
Everyone loves to get a hole-in-one, except for the cost of having to buy drinks for others. Shouldn’t it be the other way run, where others buy the “hole-in-oner” a drink? Well, since the rules said that the lucky person has to buy everyone else a drink, the memorable event can be costly. If the golfer has golf insurance, the insurance would cover a certain sum of the cost of the beverage. How much is covered probably depends on how much coverage you have.
If golf is a mind game, then taking the fear of having to empty your wallet will definitely help you do better.
At first I thought golf insurance is for insuring the clubs or golf cart against damage or thieve, but I was wrong. Golf insurance covers more than that. It covers loss of equipment, damages, injuries … and hole-in-one.
Everyone loves to get a hole-in-one, except for the cost of having to buy drinks for others. Shouldn’t it be the other way run, where others buy the “hole-in-oner” a drink? Well, since the rules said that the lucky person has to buy everyone else a drink, the memorable event can be costly. If the golfer has golf insurance, the insurance would cover a certain sum of the cost of the beverage. How much is covered probably depends on how much coverage you have.
If golf is a mind game, then taking the fear of having to empty your wallet will definitely help you do better.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Favorite Golf TV Moments
Besides going out of the course to play golf, golfers like watching the game on television as well. And there are some very hilarious moments caught on camera.
Take the 2008 Zurich Classic of New Orleans golf Tournament for example. Players had to stop in the middle of their game when a swamp of bees/wasp? decide to interrupt the game.
While one player just had to stoop down for a while, his competitor and two caddies had to lie flat on the greens. That is not you find in many golf games, left alone at a tournament.
However, hilarious though that shot might be, my number one golf TV moments have to be awarded to Woody Austin. He was playing in the 2007 President Cup, when he fell into the water after he hit the ball. Everyone who interviewed him after that day wanted to talk about that moment.
The next day, Austin reported for the tournament wearing scuba gear. If he has to take another dive, at least he is better prepared.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Have Golf Will Travel
As winter hits Colorado, golfers tend to think of vacations to warmer areas where they could still play their beloved sports. However, golfers with families might have to consider the needs of their family when planning for their vacations.
Solutions? Either go to a mini golf vacation plus a family vacation or vacations that allow them to play golf and still have activities with their family.
That is why travel website feature Golf and Spa vacation. As a female, this has a double appeal to me because I get to play golf and go for spa treatment, all at one place. Not sure where to search for such deals? Expedia has a page that will help you plan it out. All you need is to choose where you want to go and when. Kayak even has package deals already put together, with special discount like Kids Stay and Eat for Free or Free Golf with the package you choose.
If you have no desire to deal with travel website, but prefer to deal with the hotels directly, there are even resorts that market themselves as spa and golf resorts. Such as Shalishan Spa & Golf Resort in Oregon or PineHurst in North Carolina or Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa in Georgia. This is only a small sample of what is out there. The prices for these packages range from a few hundred doors to a few thousand dollar. You just need to find one that fits you.
Solutions? Either go to a mini golf vacation plus a family vacation or vacations that allow them to play golf and still have activities with their family.
That is why travel website feature Golf and Spa vacation. As a female, this has a double appeal to me because I get to play golf and go for spa treatment, all at one place. Not sure where to search for such deals? Expedia has a page that will help you plan it out. All you need is to choose where you want to go and when. Kayak even has package deals already put together, with special discount like Kids Stay and Eat for Free or Free Golf with the package you choose.
If you have no desire to deal with travel website, but prefer to deal with the hotels directly, there are even resorts that market themselves as spa and golf resorts. Such as Shalishan Spa & Golf Resort in Oregon or PineHurst in North Carolina or Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa in Georgia. This is only a small sample of what is out there. The prices for these packages range from a few hundred doors to a few thousand dollar. You just need to find one that fits you.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Pelican Lakes Salute The Veterans!
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| Greens at Pelican Lakes Golf Course |
Pelican Lakes Golf Course is honoring the veterans by giving two free rounds of golf (plus the use of a golf cart) between Oct. 11, 2011 and Nov. 11, 2011. The promotion ends with a tournament called Veteran’s Day Golf Tournament.
For all who is not familiar with the course, it is a beautiful semi-private golf course that opened in 1999. Golf Digest gave the golf-course a 4-star rating, while Colorado Golf Magazine as the top 5 semi-private course in Colorado.
Veterans who love to golf should take advantage of this promotion as the normal green fees (with the golf cart) for non-residents are $65 on the weekday and $85 on a weekend. It is their way of saying "Thank you for the service, we appreciate your sacrifice."
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Marshals of City Park Nine
If you have golfed at City Park Nine, you would have met them. Volunteers who love the sport, they are there to assist players and make it enjoyable for them. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the Marshals of City Park Nine.
One Marshal (other golf courses might refer to them as Rangers or Player Assistants) is usually on-duty every day of the week from March to October. Their shift is about 6 hours a day, and for their effort, they get to play golf at a reduced rate at City Park Nine. Considering how often many of them play, it is an attractive benefit.
It is essential that these marshals have great people skill. Sometimes, they have to smooth out unpleasant incidents such as a drunken golfer who insists on driving the golf cart. Or they may encounter an angry driver whose windshield has just been hit by a golf ball.
Their knowledge is impressive too. Being in the golf cart for just fifteen minutes with Mike Krueger, one of the Marshals, I learned why pine needles are bad for the greens, how to inspect bridges (on the golf course) and how fast the city response is to clear a fallen tree.
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| Doug Perry, PGA Professional, is in charge of the Marshals |
If you love golf and have great people skill, then consider volunteering as a Marshal. You might not get a star-shaped badge like the old Wild West, but you get to help other golfers like these guys do and reduce the cost of playing golf.
Disclosure: Doug Perry, Frank Edgar and Steve Edgar are acquaintances of the writer.
Meet the Marshals
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Golf Hazards … And I Mean Hazards
Golf courses usually mean green grass, awesome scenery and wide open space. But the number of golfers are increasing all over the world. What if a place does not have all the qualifications that most people attribute to a golf course? For some golf course designers, their answer is to build them anyway.
Take Greenland for example. Since 1997, the World Ice Golf Championship have the competitors play in frozen seascapes, icebergs and glaciers. My advice for golfers teeing off there? Dress warmly, use golf ball that is not white, and be prepared to walk as no golf carts are available.
Too cold? Prefer a warmer climate? Then Merapi Golf Course is probably your type of golf course. Situated in Indonesia, near Mount Merapi (an active volcano). As if that is not bad enough, the course is designed to make it challenging for golfers with its many uphill and downhill slopes. Unfortunately, golfers eager to try it out might have to delay their trip because Mount Merapi erupted October last year and some parts of the golf courses was badly affected.
If these two golf courses is still not challenging enough for you, than maybe Camp Bonifas Golf Course is your type. ESPN reporter Shelley Smith referred to it as the “most dangerous golf course in the world.” It is one-hole, par 3 course but it is surrounded by heavily armed Korean border and minefields.
Much rather a golf course that will let you play and play? Then Nullarbor Links Course is the place you have been looking for. Located from Western Australia to South Australia, the 1,365 kilometers course (about 848 miles) is dubbed the World's Longest Golf Course. Once you complete the whole course (and have your score card stamped at every hole) you will be awarded a certificate.
Besides receiving the certificate to mark your achievement, you also have a gallery consisting of kangaroos as an audience, a chance of watching migrating whales as you play, having people land-sail across the huge salt flat, or even aborigines doing a dance on the green as they play golf. Whatever catch your attention, please be watchful of your surroundings – within the golf course are areas where poisonous snakes (such as Mr. Brown Snakes) called home.
The crows are known to fly away with golf balls that they find. No one knows what the birds do with the golf balls as the balls disappear once the birds take off with it. The bright side of having a crow steal your ball is you have an interesting tale and no penalty strokes for it.
This golf course is so spectacular that Travel Channel posted a video on youtube on Nov. 1, 2010 (embed here for your viewing pleasure).
Take Greenland for example. Since 1997, the World Ice Golf Championship have the competitors play in frozen seascapes, icebergs and glaciers. My advice for golfers teeing off there? Dress warmly, use golf ball that is not white, and be prepared to walk as no golf carts are available.
Too cold? Prefer a warmer climate? Then Merapi Golf Course is probably your type of golf course. Situated in Indonesia, near Mount Merapi (an active volcano). As if that is not bad enough, the course is designed to make it challenging for golfers with its many uphill and downhill slopes. Unfortunately, golfers eager to try it out might have to delay their trip because Mount Merapi erupted October last year and some parts of the golf courses was badly affected.
If these two golf courses is still not challenging enough for you, than maybe Camp Bonifas Golf Course is your type. ESPN reporter Shelley Smith referred to it as the “most dangerous golf course in the world.” It is one-hole, par 3 course but it is surrounded by heavily armed Korean border and minefields.
Much rather a golf course that will let you play and play? Then Nullarbor Links Course is the place you have been looking for. Located from Western Australia to South Australia, the 1,365 kilometers course (about 848 miles) is dubbed the World's Longest Golf Course. Once you complete the whole course (and have your score card stamped at every hole) you will be awarded a certificate.
Besides receiving the certificate to mark your achievement, you also have a gallery consisting of kangaroos as an audience, a chance of watching migrating whales as you play, having people land-sail across the huge salt flat, or even aborigines doing a dance on the green as they play golf. Whatever catch your attention, please be watchful of your surroundings – within the golf course are areas where poisonous snakes (such as Mr. Brown Snakes) called home.
The crows are known to fly away with golf balls that they find. No one knows what the birds do with the golf balls as the balls disappear once the birds take off with it. The bright side of having a crow steal your ball is you have an interesting tale and no penalty strokes for it.
This golf course is so spectacular that Travel Channel posted a video on youtube on Nov. 1, 2010 (embed here for your viewing pleasure).
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Ads Featuring Golf
Golf businesses is not the only ones reaching out to golfers. Advertisers wants to convinced golfers to consider them by creating advertisements with golf elements. By appealing to their passion, companies hope golfers will recall their brand and give them the advantage over their competitors.
Some of these companies are closely linked to their products to golf, which make their choice seem more natural.
Others, not so much. But that did not stop creative directors from coming up with great ads that incorporate golf into their advertisement. Take the VW ad for example. The car drove by a driving range and the caption at the end that singles out golf (and subtlety including the VW) as everyday living..
TV Channel Spike brought together elements of Star Wars and golf to create this hilarious advertisement. Which golfer hasn't wish they have some kind of super power that would help their game, to the detriment of the other players.
Who knows, maybe these ads will correct the misconception that golfers have no sense of humor, and inspire non-golfers to take up the sport.
Some of these companies are closely linked to their products to golf, which make their choice seem more natural.
Others, not so much. But that did not stop creative directors from coming up with great ads that incorporate golf into their advertisement. Take the VW ad for example. The car drove by a driving range and the caption at the end that singles out golf (and subtlety including the VW) as everyday living..
TV Channel Spike brought together elements of Star Wars and golf to create this hilarious advertisement. Which golfer hasn't wish they have some kind of super power that would help their game, to the detriment of the other players.
Who knows, maybe these ads will correct the misconception that golfers have no sense of humor, and inspire non-golfers to take up the sport.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Golf Gadgets for All Shapes and Sizes
The golf population is increasing and entrepreneurs have noticed that. There are great gadgets that protect your equipment (like the golf bag alarm) or improve your game. Gadgets for improving your swing or telling you the distances are common and different golfers favor different brands and models. They are the usual Christmas gifts to golfers, beside club covers, cups, t-shirts, hats that have some quotes or picture of golf on it.
Want to go the unbeaten path? How about the club with an adjustable head? This one club can change into 33 different clubs (two types of drivers, three types of fairway woods, nine wedges, five different putters, and 14 irons). With airlines charging a great deal for check-in, this might be a solution for golfers who fly a lot.
Too far off the beaten path? What about the Golf Bag Drink Dispenser. It is insulated and can hold 48 oz. of either hot or cold drinks. To make it attractive the manufacturers even make it to fit your golf bag.
However, my personal favorite unusual golf gadget is the Potty Putter. It is for people who multi-task. You get to practice your putting while doing you-know-what at the bathroom.
But in case this is read by my friend who happens to be wondering what gift to get for me, I would rather receive golf apparel.
Want to go the unbeaten path? How about the club with an adjustable head? This one club can change into 33 different clubs (two types of drivers, three types of fairway woods, nine wedges, five different putters, and 14 irons). With airlines charging a great deal for check-in, this might be a solution for golfers who fly a lot.
Too far off the beaten path? What about the Golf Bag Drink Dispenser. It is insulated and can hold 48 oz. of either hot or cold drinks. To make it attractive the manufacturers even make it to fit your golf bag.
However, my personal favorite unusual golf gadget is the Potty Putter. It is for people who multi-task. You get to practice your putting while doing you-know-what at the bathroom.
But in case this is read by my friend who happens to be wondering what gift to get for me, I would rather receive golf apparel.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Marriage Between Golf and Music Video
What happens when you marry music and golf together? Well, it depends on which route you take. If the song is about how most golfers feel about their game then it will probably be like the song The Golf Song, written by the Arrogant Worms.
Too close to home? Prefer something more MTV? Well, what kind of music do you like? If it is country, the golf song might come out like this music video the Country Club Anthem (played to the music of Jason Alden’s Dirt Road Anthem).
Besides Country Club Anthem, the group also rewrite another country song (Easton Corbin's hit song A Little More Country Than That) into A Little More Preppy Than That. Unfortunately, this song goes not have the glamour usually associated with music video. Still, I have to admit the song is great.
If it is rap you prefer, it might be “Oh Oh Oh” performed by the Golf Boys (available on iTune). The Golf Boys actually consist of 4 PGA players: Bubba Waston, Rickie Fowler, Ben Crane and Hunter Mahan. According to an article by Ryan McDermott, published on BethesdaPatch on June 16, 2011, these 4 men rank within the 100 in the world of golf.
Just in case the group’s name sounds a little too sexist and puts you off, there is one for the women too. It is “Ah Ah Ah” by the Golf Girls, performed by European Tour golf players Sophie Giquel, Sophie Sandolo, Jades Schaffer and Cassandra Kirkland (see article by Mike Walker from Golf.com).
Enough said. Enjoy.
Too close to home? Prefer something more MTV? Well, what kind of music do you like? If it is country, the golf song might come out like this music video the Country Club Anthem (played to the music of Jason Alden’s Dirt Road Anthem).
Besides Country Club Anthem, the group also rewrite another country song (Easton Corbin's hit song A Little More Country Than That) into A Little More Preppy Than That. Unfortunately, this song goes not have the glamour usually associated with music video. Still, I have to admit the song is great.
If it is rap you prefer, it might be “Oh Oh Oh” performed by the Golf Boys (available on iTune). The Golf Boys actually consist of 4 PGA players: Bubba Waston, Rickie Fowler, Ben Crane and Hunter Mahan. According to an article by Ryan McDermott, published on BethesdaPatch on June 16, 2011, these 4 men rank within the 100 in the world of golf.
Just in case the group’s name sounds a little too sexist and puts you off, there is one for the women too. It is “Ah Ah Ah” by the Golf Girls, performed by European Tour golf players Sophie Giquel, Sophie Sandolo, Jades Schaffer and Cassandra Kirkland (see article by Mike Walker from Golf.com).
Enough said. Enjoy.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
S-B-S and Drop Your Pants
My general manager at my workplace heard about my last posting of my unforgettable shots and told me he had something similar. He was in a tournament and the ball was supposed to end up in a pond because he misjudged his shot, but there were two rocks by the pond that saved him. His whole group could hear the ball bouncing between the two rocks when all of a sudden the ball bounced out from the pond and landed on the green, inches from the hole. Because of that he actually won the “closest to the pin.” The others in the tournament tried to discount it but the marshal of the game said it stands. Such shot is so common there is actually a name for it – S-B-S (S*** But Satisfactory) Shot.
Then, I heard of a weird rule about tee-shot. What’s the rule? If a guy doesn’t hit past a women’s tee, he has to hit the ball with his pants down. I actually heard this when I was out on a golf date, and I wasn’t sure if my date was joking.
I asked my date if he saw anyone actually followed this rule. He said that once he was paired with a twosome. The twosome had way too many beers in the first 9-holes and in the second-9 holes, one of the them hit a bad shot which didn’t get passed the red tee. He dropped his pants for his second shot just when 2 women walked by. My date said the 2 women were outraged but the guy pull his pants back on after her finished his second shot.
I checked the web and found a facebook page dedicated to this one rule. YouTube has many video of this rule, so here is one.
Then, I heard of a weird rule about tee-shot. What’s the rule? If a guy doesn’t hit past a women’s tee, he has to hit the ball with his pants down. I actually heard this when I was out on a golf date, and I wasn’t sure if my date was joking.
I asked my date if he saw anyone actually followed this rule. He said that once he was paired with a twosome. The twosome had way too many beers in the first 9-holes and in the second-9 holes, one of the them hit a bad shot which didn’t get passed the red tee. He dropped his pants for his second shot just when 2 women walked by. My date said the 2 women were outraged but the guy pull his pants back on after her finished his second shot.
I checked the web and found a facebook page dedicated to this one rule. YouTube has many video of this rule, so here is one.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Unforgettable Shots
All golfers have shots they can’t forget … good and bad. But there are also moments where it is just plain incredible. I only started playing golf since May this year and I have already collected quite a few.
Last month, I was out golfing with a classmate. He was trying to hit the ball across the pond, onto the green. Unfortunately, he hooked it and it went way right. The ball should have ended in the pond and that would be the end of it, but instead it hit a rock that was at the edge of the pond. It made the ball bounced up so high that it came across the pond and hit our side of the pond. Then it hit another rock and when way up straight before dropping into the middle of the pond. My classmate and I just looked at each other amazed and asked if that really happen.
Another time, I was out on a foursome. Two of the four played reasonably well while the other two of us definitely need more practice. Still, I think it takes skill for my friend to execute this one shot. She was hitting the ball on the fairway to try and get it to the green. Instead, the ball jumped sideways and backwards and almost hit the beer can off this guy who was standing about 3 yards to the right and back of her. Talking about an impossible shot, we had to take some time to recover because we all burst out laughing.
Don’t have many of such moments? What are you waiting for? Go dust off your clubs and get out there. I will be looking out for your comments on your unforgettable shots. Here's a video of fantastic shot to get you started.
Last month, I was out golfing with a classmate. He was trying to hit the ball across the pond, onto the green. Unfortunately, he hooked it and it went way right. The ball should have ended in the pond and that would be the end of it, but instead it hit a rock that was at the edge of the pond. It made the ball bounced up so high that it came across the pond and hit our side of the pond. Then it hit another rock and when way up straight before dropping into the middle of the pond. My classmate and I just looked at each other amazed and asked if that really happen.
Another time, I was out on a foursome. Two of the four played reasonably well while the other two of us definitely need more practice. Still, I think it takes skill for my friend to execute this one shot. She was hitting the ball on the fairway to try and get it to the green. Instead, the ball jumped sideways and backwards and almost hit the beer can off this guy who was standing about 3 yards to the right and back of her. Talking about an impossible shot, we had to take some time to recover because we all burst out laughing.
Don’t have many of such moments? What are you waiting for? Go dust off your clubs and get out there. I will be looking out for your comments on your unforgettable shots. Here's a video of fantastic shot to get you started.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Seven Days in Utopia
Ask golfers what golf movie are there and you will probably get “Tin Cup”(1996), “CaddyShack” (1980), “Happy Gillmore” (1996) or even “The Greatest Game Ever Played” (2005). On Sept. 2, 2011 a new movie “Seven Days in Utopia” joined that list.
Wait a minute … Utopia? As in The Perfect Place, like the mystical Shanghai-la? Or the Buddhist's Nirvana? Actually, no. Utopia is a small town in Texas. Based on David L Cook's book “Golf's Sacred Journey: Seven Days,” Seven Days in Utopia is about a golfer who choke during a pro tour. Ready to give up the game, he was traveling through a rural town when he had an accident.
Lucas Black (starred in The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, Friday Night Lights) played Luke Chilosm, the talented young golfer and Robert Duvall (starred in Gone in 60 Seconds, Deep Impact) is the former professional golfer, Johnny Crawford, that helped Chilosm find his way back. The movie also starred golf champion Stewart Cink (winner of 2009 Open Championship) and K.J. Choi (winner of 2011 The Players Championship).
Crawford used methods that would make Mr. Miyaki (played by Pat Morita) from the original Karate Kid (or Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan, from the remake of Karate Kid) proud. The methods may be unconventional but it helped to get the point across to Chilosm.
Surely the movie will draw the golfers to the cinema. But when I went to watch the movie yesterday (Sunday) at 7.05 p.m., I was surprised to see less than 15 people in the cinema with me. The youngest in the cinema is 11-year-old. Are golfers giving this movie the skip?
Steve Edgar, who marshals at City Park Nine (golf course at Fort Collins, Colo.), has seen the movie. Though he has been playing golf for 12 years, he said he is still learning. Nevertheless, he asked jokingly, “Must I go to Utopia to improve my golf game too?”
Jokes aside, Edgar feels that his game can improve with the three concept that the movie keeps reiterating … See, Feel, Trust. He truly enjoyed the show and would encourage his dad, who loves golf too, to see the movie.
In an interview with HuffPost Sports, Lucas Black was asked if his golf experience resonate with what the film advocates. Black agrees that emotion plays a role in golf. Just in case you think that he had a stand-in to do his swinging shots or the great swing was the product of film editing, the article reports that he did not.
So will the movie help me, a newbie to golf? I can't say for sure, but I definitely say that I enjoyed the movie and am glad I went to see it.
Wait a minute … Utopia? As in The Perfect Place, like the mystical Shanghai-la? Or the Buddhist's Nirvana? Actually, no. Utopia is a small town in Texas. Based on David L Cook's book “Golf's Sacred Journey: Seven Days,” Seven Days in Utopia is about a golfer who choke during a pro tour. Ready to give up the game, he was traveling through a rural town when he had an accident.
Lucas Black (starred in The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, Friday Night Lights) played Luke Chilosm, the talented young golfer and Robert Duvall (starred in Gone in 60 Seconds, Deep Impact) is the former professional golfer, Johnny Crawford, that helped Chilosm find his way back. The movie also starred golf champion Stewart Cink (winner of 2009 Open Championship) and K.J. Choi (winner of 2011 The Players Championship).
Crawford used methods that would make Mr. Miyaki (played by Pat Morita) from the original Karate Kid (or Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan, from the remake of Karate Kid) proud. The methods may be unconventional but it helped to get the point across to Chilosm.
Surely the movie will draw the golfers to the cinema. But when I went to watch the movie yesterday (Sunday) at 7.05 p.m., I was surprised to see less than 15 people in the cinema with me. The youngest in the cinema is 11-year-old. Are golfers giving this movie the skip?
Steve Edgar, who marshals at City Park Nine (golf course at Fort Collins, Colo.), has seen the movie. Though he has been playing golf for 12 years, he said he is still learning. Nevertheless, he asked jokingly, “Must I go to Utopia to improve my golf game too?”
Jokes aside, Edgar feels that his game can improve with the three concept that the movie keeps reiterating … See, Feel, Trust. He truly enjoyed the show and would encourage his dad, who loves golf too, to see the movie.
In an interview with HuffPost Sports, Lucas Black was asked if his golf experience resonate with what the film advocates. Black agrees that emotion plays a role in golf. Just in case you think that he had a stand-in to do his swinging shots or the great swing was the product of film editing, the article reports that he did not.
So will the movie help me, a newbie to golf? I can't say for sure, but I definitely say that I enjoyed the movie and am glad I went to see it.
Disclosure: Steve Edgar are acquaintances of the writer.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Golf and Beer
Steve (comment entered on Aug 30, 2011) is correct. Golf and beer goes hand-in-hand. My defense for not saying that earlier is I don't drink beer! But even I know beer and golf goes together. So do golf tournaments, golf equipment companies and beer brewers.
For Father's Day this year, Bridgestone Golf team up with Michelob Ultra to sell the ultimate golf gift for dads who golf … a three-ball sleeve of Bridgestone's award-winning golf balls and five Michelob ULTRA Slimline cans.
The price for this limited edition is $10 – the same as the price for the sleeve of award winning golf balls, which makes the cans of beer free. No wonder the Golfer's Ultimate 6-Pack flew off the shelves.
Bridgestone Golf is not the only organization that teams golf with beer. There are many golf tournament that incorporate some beer elements with the competition. Take the Open Container Golf Tournament on Aug 20, 2011 at Mountain Vista Golf Course. This tournament requires the 2-member teams to come up with their own name, play each hole with 3-clubs (a putter is provided at each hole and each partner carries only 1 club) and have to finish a can of beer each for four specific holes. If either of the team member did not finish their can of beer in that hole gets a 2-stroke penalty. The competition awards the first, second and last position. All this fun and game benefits the Wellington Girls and Boys Club as proceeds go towards supporting organization.
Who says you can't have keg and eat (or drink) it too.
For Father's Day this year, Bridgestone Golf team up with Michelob Ultra to sell the ultimate golf gift for dads who golf … a three-ball sleeve of Bridgestone's award-winning golf balls and five Michelob ULTRA Slimline cans.
The price for this limited edition is $10 – the same as the price for the sleeve of award winning golf balls, which makes the cans of beer free. No wonder the Golfer's Ultimate 6-Pack flew off the shelves.
Bridgestone Golf is not the only organization that teams golf with beer. There are many golf tournament that incorporate some beer elements with the competition. Take the Open Container Golf Tournament on Aug 20, 2011 at Mountain Vista Golf Course. This tournament requires the 2-member teams to come up with their own name, play each hole with 3-clubs (a putter is provided at each hole and each partner carries only 1 club) and have to finish a can of beer each for four specific holes. If either of the team member did not finish their can of beer in that hole gets a 2-stroke penalty. The competition awards the first, second and last position. All this fun and game benefits the Wellington Girls and Boys Club as proceeds go towards supporting organization.
Who says you can't have keg and eat (or drink) it too.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Fun That Didn't Cost A Lot
Let’s just face it, golf is an expensive game. Clubs don’t come cheap and it is so easy to lose your golf ball. It drops into a water hazard or go out of bounds into someone’s property. There is also the possibility that you stay within bounds but cannot find your ball at all. (Hey, we believe you when you said the squirrel ran off with it.)
Besides the equipment there is the high cost of using a golf course. Some private courses require expensive membership. Public golf course isn’t cheap either. That is why people like to play during the sunset hours when golf course charge cheaper rates, get coupons for discounts or go for package deal.
Still too costly? Well, I came across this video which shows how the creativity of these two guys let them play golf and still keep their money. However, I personally won’t recommend it. Just watch it and have a good laugh … it might inspire you to find other ways to swing your clubs and still have fun. Just try and not to do something too crazy that would cause you to hurt yourself.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Welcome, Step Right In ...
When someone thinks of golf, most people picture lush green courses, dimpled white balls, bag of clubs and a sign that officials hold up to tell the crowd to be quiet. It is always serious and players are always analyzing their swing and if their shot went straight, hook or slice.
But there is actually more to golf than just that. There are those who take up golf just to be out there with friends and for exercise. Before I took up golf myself, I used to go out on the golf course with my ex-husband (we were still married back then) to enjoy the beauty of the scenery and to be with each other. Besides it is a good walking exercise. It definitely beats exercising on a treadmill for sure.
For all of you who took up golf just for the exercise and fun, like me, this blog was started with you in mind. Don’t get me wrong. I am just as excited as any other serious golfer when I land the ball right on the green at my first swing or if I played an amazing game. But I am also amused with all the funny situations, shots and unbelievable things that take place on the golf course. So join me each week on the funny side of golf.
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