WHAT'S BEEN HAPPENING IN THE BUNKER SO FAR IN 2025 PART 2

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

THE LEGENDS GOLF AND SAFARI RESORT, Limpopo, South Africa, features the “Extreme 19th” which is the world's longest and highest par 3, only accessible by helicopter. Golfers are faced with a 394 yd. tee shot, and the ball takes 30 seconds to drop to the Africa-shaped green 470 yds below. Nobody has yet claimed the million dollars for a hole in one.

It costs over $1000 per foursome for the helicopter and six balls with tracking devices in case of a lost ball (in case?) All that is needed is deep pockets. And a good head for heights.

PRESIDENT DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, five star general, 34^th president of the United States, was golf mad. His popularity was high in post-war America and the public decided that “If Ike likes it it's good enough for me.” The number of golfers approximately doubled during Eisenhower's two terms (1953-1960.) He had a practice net in the White House basement and used the South Lawn as a practice range. His State of the Union address was written at Augusta National in a “cabin” built for his use. However, even Ike couldn't get the 65ft pine tree he often came in contact with removed from the course. 

Eisenhower saw a golf course as a place to build relationships, and a way to foster goodwill and understanding among the international community. 

Nearly a quarter of President Trump's time since January has been spent on the golf course, apparently it helps him make calm and considered decisions. If he can be persuaded to spend even more time there civilization may yet be saved. 

RORY MCILROY'S Boston Common Golf team has yet to beat Tiger Woods' Jupiter Links G.C. in their new, fast-paced, indoor competition called TGL (Tomorrow Golf League.) The action is played out on two very sophisticated golf simulators and combines virtual and real-life play. On a playing area roughly the size of a football pitch, half the arena is dedicated to “Screen Play” where balls are hit from a natural surface. When the ball lands within 50 yds of the virtual pin the action switches to the short-game area which includes an adjustable green. The shows are apparently highly successful, Tiger and Rory both emphasise that it's not just about winning but bringing the sport to a younger more tech-savvy audience. (The ones who can't get off their backsides and find a golf course.)

EDWARD STIMPSON, the Massachusetts amateur champion, was a spectator at Oakmont in 1935. After watching a putt by Gene Sarazen roll off a green he went away and invented a simple device and method to accurately measure the speed of greens.^. Hence the “Stimpmeter.”

THE PORSCHE SINGAPORE CLASSIC takes place at Laguna National Golf Resort 20-23^rd March. Hosted by Brand Ambassador Paul Casey this prestigious DP World Tour event is being hailed as an unmissable spectacle for golf enthusiasts and Porsche fans alike. The streets of Singapore will be awash with courtesy Porsches, the golfer who makes a hole in one on the 17^th will drive away the latest model Porsche and spectators can compete to qualify for the Porsche Shootout, where the ultimate prize is: you guessed it.

THE TAYLOR MADE Qi35 driver features the most multi-material construction in the industry; titanium, tungsten, carbon fibre, aluminium and steel. Weight savings from the carbon face are redistributed to improve CG and MOI. The Qi35 Max driver retains it's 10,000 MOI but reduces spin by 200 RPM, catering for golfers who want forgiveness, accuracy and distance. And as Rick Shiel says: “It looks fantastic!”

Letter to the Telegraph: “Years ago my husband proposed to me on the sand dunes of my favourite beach overlooking the beautiful Camel estuary in North Cornwall. Accepting, I congratulated him on choosing such a romantic location, then he confessed that he'd actually chosen the spot for the view in the opposite direction: the golf hole where he'd hit a hole in one the day before!” 

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

WHAT'S BEEN HAPPENING IN THE BUNKER SO FAR IN 2025

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

VALE DO LOBO, Portugal, is a firm favourite for golfing getaways, boasting two championship courses, Ocean & Royal. The Ocean, composed of the two original 9-hole courses designed by Sir Henry Cotton, features gently undulating fairways, two spectacular par 4s, the 11^th and 14^th and the par 3 15^th which runs alongside the beach. The Royal course features the almost island 9^th green and the famous par 3 red cliffs hole 16 with clifftop carryover – one of the most photographed holes in Europe. Probably best to visit soon as the cliffs are said to be fast disappearing into the sea, although as a geologist's idea of “fast” is about 1500 years there's probably no need to panic.

EVERYONE KNOWS The Donald likes a game of golf. Rory McIlroy once had to give up his Sunday morning lie-in when he was ‘invited’ to play a round with Trump. Tiger Woods also received the call of the Trumpet. Top U.S. players should be prepared for the summons. They should also be prepared to lose, Trump doesn't like being beaten.

Several ex-presidents teamed up with pro golfers, Ike and Palmer were a frequent double act.Bush and Woods chilled out on the course and Clinton, Reagan and Nixon all played while in or out of the Oval Office. Gerald Ford would play with anyone brave enough to risk being decapitated.

THE GENESIS INVITATIONAL (Feb 10-16^th) was scheduled for Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, which was severely hit by the recent forest fires. With the threat of fires continuing, the tournament hosted by Tiger Woods has been relocated to the South Course at Torrey Pines in San Diego. Torrey Pines will be geared up anyway having just hosted the Farmers Insurance Open, but players will be disappointed to miss out on Riviera, it's not every club that can boast past members like Douglas Fairbanks, Gregory Peck and Humphrey Bogart.

In addition to prize money, Genesis electric cars will be strewn around like confetti. Not only the player, but his caddie will be handed a Genesis GV80, GV70 or GV60 for a hole-in-one on two holes, 14 and 16. 

FEELINGS ARE ALWAYS HIGH at the Ryder Cup but Luke Donald has had to hire an American comedian to shout personal insults at the Europeans to prepare them for Bethpage Black. Our lads are pretty laid back, but one at least has a pretty short fuse, so if a personal insult is directed at Mr. T. Hatton don't be surprised if it's followed by one flat fan.

WITH CLASSY LOOKS, wonderful sound, impressive forgiveness and a solid feel the Callaway Elyte driver is winning rave reviews. The Elyte X, built for maximum forgiveness and stability, is perfect for hlgh handicappers, and the low spin, high-launch Triple Diamond is designed for advanced players, although some testers said the Triple Diamond has no significant advantages. Now a Double Diamond would have worked wonders.

Regarding the Elyte irons, Golf Monthy says: “Some of the most forgiving, longest-hitting irons we've seen. With cutting edge materials, AI-designed faces, and strategic weight distribution Callaway is pushing the limits of what's possible in an iron. In addition, they look fantastic.”

PETE COWEN tip for distance: Address the ball, draw right foot back 3 or 4 inches and then align hips and shoulders with feet. This will have the effect of creating more launch angle, and will give you that extra distance.

THE HASSAN II TROPHY (Feb 6-8^th) golf tournament was founded by Morocco's late King Hassan II. Now held at the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam course in Rabat, for four years it was held at the Golf du Palais Royal in Agadir, the Palace's private golf course reserved for the King and his friends, but as he didn't have many he would lend it for the tournament. Ricardo Gonzalez, last year's winner, was relieved when he found that the King's prize was a jewel-encrusted dagger, his mates had told him it was a string of camels.

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475

JULY EVENTS 2024

JULY EVENTS 2024

LOFOTEN, NORWAY. Situated inside the Arctic Circle there is a ”Cool golf links with the hottest light show on earth.” Summer visitors come to stay in lodges and play 24 hr. golf in a spectacular setting on the Norwegian Sea, and from August to October they get the Northern Lights thrown in.

GOLFERS WHO COMPETE in the Macmillan Longest Day Challenge should tip their caps to H.Lumsden, of the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, who set a formidable record for the most golf played in 24 hours on a light summer night in 1910. Starting at 2.20. a.m. he proceeded to play 12 rounds of golf, or 216 holes, a distance of around 40 miles, averaging 82.5 shots per round, and finishing at 9.00 p.m. I wonder if his wife greeted him with ”And what time do you call this, H.Lumsden?”

THE STAYSURE PGA Seniors Championship will be staged at Trump International Golf Links July 31^st to August 4th.  The par-72 championship course, opened in 2012, features 2 loops of nine holes nestled in amongst the Great Dunes with views of the Aberdeenshire coastline.

Host Colin Montgomerie says: “To be hosting the oldest Senior Championship in Europe is a distinct privilege. I will be doing my best to be a good host, while also focussing on competing against a very strong field.”  Phil Harrison, CEO of the Legends Tour, said: “Colin Montgomerie is a name synonymous with European golf and it's success. We are delighted to have Colin on board and can think of no better host for this fantastic tournament.” Unfortunately, Monty is also famous for being one of the world's grumpiest golfers. A man who could be put off his stroke by the sound of butterfly wings, his temper tantrums were legendary. He argued with fans, he argued with cameramen, he even argued with his long-suffering caddie Alastair McLean. Let's hope he's mellowed with age, and there aren't too many butterflies on the Trump course.

IT'S ALL HAPPENING north of the border this month. The Genesis Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club Nth. Berwick, July 11-14^th, will be followed by The Open at Royal Troon from July 18^th to 21^st, then the Senior Open at Carnoustie Golf Links, July 25-28^th followed by Monty's lot at Trump International on the 31^st. Hardly gives the players time for a wee dram between Championships. Hope the weather is kind, especially for the seniors, or hot toddys and Vick vapour rub will be the order of the day.

To counter complaints of favouritism towards the land of heather and porridge, Sir Nick Faldo will be hosting the Betfred British Masters at The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, from 29^th August to 1^stSeptember.

The Saturday will be “Retro day” with the fans encouraged to wear their traditional golf outfits, a chance for Sir Nick to dig out one of his diamond jumpers.

HYBRID CLUBS make scoring easier and, as a result, provide more enjoymenT especially if you're a senior player.  The Cobra Darkspeed hybrid impressed testers this spring, with it's suspended PWR-BRIDGE design helping deliver long, straight shots, and an AI-designed H.O.T. Face which provides consistently fast ball speeds. The 12g weight positioned low in the sole helps to promote a high, towering ball flight. In addition, the combination of black and grey tones and matte dark grey crown make this one of the best looking hybrids. Impressed? A snip at around £229.. 

WINNERS OF THE OPEN receive a replica Claret Jug while the original resides at St. Andrews. Tom Watson, however, was given the original Claret Jug in error after his 1982 Open victory and accidentally knocked it off a table at home while practising his swing. He put it in the vice in his workroom and removed the dent. Luckily Henrik Stenson didn't drop the (replica) Claret jug after his win in 2016, as he went waterskiing with the trophy afterwards. Let's hope the next Open winner doesn't do free cliff climbing in his spare time.

JUNE 2024 EVENTS

 JUNE 2024 EVENTS

DOGS WERE NOT POPULAR at my old golf club, Barton on Sea in Hampshire. Having heard some hair-raising anecdotes I can understand why. One chap used to tie his fox terrier Harry to the trolley. Harry always behaved impeccably until one day on reaching the 14^th hole near the clifftop car park a car door opened and out jumped the Hound of the Baskervilles. It made straight for Harry, and Harry, neither up for a fight nor a romantic encounter, took off. Fear lent wings to his little ginger legs and the trolley swayed behind him, shedding clubs over the fairway, with Harry’s owner and partner both running behind waving their irons and the Hound’s owner bringing up the rear in a scene reminiscent of a Benny Hill chase. On another occasion, an excitable pup on an extending lead promptly ran round and round a foursomes, tying them up in a neat, almost oven-ready parcel. Never a dull minute. 

Suggestions before taking Fido for a round:

1) No barking. An ill-timed bark at the top of your opponent's backswing could result in Rover's immediate demise. 2) Teach him to understand “drop it”, especially your opponent's ball. 3) Don't forget the poo bag. 

THE U.S. OPEN will be played on Pinehurst No. 2 course, Nth. Carolina, June 13-16^th. Designed in 1907 by Donald Ross, Pinehurst has 9 18 hole courses, each named simply by a number.  Pinehurst 2 is said to be fiendishly difficult.  Many of the greens are crowned and short shots tend to roll off, leaving a difficult chip shot.  Johnny Miller once compared trying to land a ball on a Pinehurst green to trying to land it on top of a VW Beetle. Payne Stewart, who's statue is behind the 18^th green, won the US Open there in 1999 after holing a 15ft par putt for a one-stroke victory before losing his life in October of that year. Pinehurst had no long rough in 1907 but in 1974 thick Bermuda rough was introduced throughout the course. In 2010 it was removed and fairways and bunkers were restored to the original Ross design with fine sand and native scrub. The good news is it’s very difficult to lose a ball on No. 2. course, there’s just one water hazard and OB rarely comes into play. Defending champion Wyndham Clark's putting last year was said to be outstanding. Perhaps he'd bought a VW Beetle.

A BRAND NEW GOLF CLUB is set to open "Within sight of central London.” The Inspiration Club is located just 10 miles from the West End and about seven miles from Heathrow airport. The third golf course owned by the Bridgedown Golf Group, following on from The Shire London and The West London Golf Centre, the 6,610-yard course is opening on 1^stJune. Director Tony Menai-Davis said: "The Inspiration Club is unlike anything London has ever seen - a modern style links, featuring run-offs familiar to coastal layouts. To experience what we have designed here you would normally have to travel to the coast. The club will be perfectly positioned for golf enthusiasts looking to indulge in a round after work in the City." Oh yeah! Just try getting out to Northolt at 5.00pm.

PING SAY the G430 MAX 10K is their most forgiving driver yet, overtaking last year's G430 MAX.  It practically comes with an automatic pardon from the pope. In addition, the lower spin rate of the G430 Max 10K leads to a vastly improved carry distance. The fixed Tungsten back weight drives mass down and back to increase forgiveness and optimise the centre of gravity position.
Even more noticeable, apparently, is the consistency. On more wayward strikes direction, speed and spin stay remarkably solid. The driver's large confidence-inspiring head helps square the golfer to the target. 

It's a tad expensive, coming in at a whopping £599. I'd better start saving up. Like Bob Hope I've got a great short game, unfortunately it’s off the tee. 

MAY 2024 EVENTS

MAY 2024 EVENTS 

Apes Hill

THE LEGENDS TOUR 2024 starts on 3rd May and features 20 tournaments across four continents with a prize fund of over €18 million. The over 50's first tournament, hosted by Ian Woosnam, will be at Apes Hill golf course, on the blissful island of Barbados.

Set on the site of an old sugar plantation, Apes Hill occupies the island's highest usable terrain, with wonderful views and cool breezes from both the Atlantic and the Caribbean. Bearded fig trees line the fairways and green monkeys swing through the trees. Designer Ron Kirby also oversaw the creation of a par-3 course to be played by families and serious golfers alike, with replica holes from around the word, like the Postage Stamp at Royal Troon or the 17^th at TPC Sawgrass. 

The course first opened in 2009 but fell into financial difficulty and disrepair before being bought by a Canadian businessman who invested $24 million and brought in Kirby, who designed the celebrated Old Head Links in Ireland. Luxury villas, a state-of-the-art driving range, fitness centre and health club, hiking and nature trails, floodlit paddle and tennis courts and a world-class spa resulted in Apes Hill Barbados receiving an impressive four wins at the 2023 World Golf Awards in Abu Dhabi. The golf course was also named the best in both Barbados and the Caribbean. Ron Kirby, who died in 2022 shortly after the completion of his masterpiece, would have been proud.

THE PGA CHAMPIONSHIP is returning to Nicklaus-designed Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky from May 13-19^th. The course has played host to some of golf’s greatest events, including the 2014 PGA Championship and the 2008 Ryder Cup. For a memorable trip the Kentucky Derby (May 4th) on Churchill Downs would be recommended, if only for the opportunity of cheering on the winner with a drop of bourbon.  Both Kentucky and Ireland produce world-beating racehorses, the limestone in the soil is said to provide calcium which strengthens the bones of their world famous thoroughbreds. A visit to the historic building where the Louisville Lip began his boxing career, and then a tour of the bluegrass country followed by the PGA at Valhalla. Perfect. Kentucky is rightly renowned for both racing and golf. Don't know if it's the limestone but their whisky's not bad either.

Rory McIlroy’s victory in near darkness at the 2014 PGA Championship in a rain-delayed final round, was his last win in a major. It's time he sank a celebratory bourbon again.  

SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER started the year with a reasonable T5 at the Sentry and T17 at the American Express. Things quickly moved up a gear with three top 10's in a row, the At&T Pebble Beach, WM Phoenix Open, and the Genesis Invitational. After that his form really improved, starting with the Arnold Palmer Invitational then the Players Championship followed by a T2 in the Houston Open. To compensate for that disappointment he proceeded to win the Masters and the RBC at HiIton Head. In the space of 44 days he earned $16,253,735 in prize money, of which he gave $1,608,761 to his caddie, Ted Scott. So far this season Scott has earned just under $1,800,000. more than Rory McIlroy and Tony Finau, to name just two. And it's only May.

MUSTN'T FORGET the ladies. Well done to Nelly Korda for winning the Chevron Championship by two shots in Texas to secure her second major title and a fifth straight tournament win, earning her over $2 million so far. Does she need a caddie?

A RECENT medical study says the death rate for golfers is 40% lower than that for non-golfers, and on a par with athletes and gymnasts. That’s as long as players walk the course, burning off some 900 calories during an average round. (Meaning you can still drop in the 19^th afterwards and put 700 back on.) For those of you familiar with the old Stanley Holloway song: “My word, I do feel well!”

APRIL 2024 EVENTS 

The Devils Bridge

WHEN THE EDELWEISS emerges from it's snowy blanket in spring so too does the Andermatt Golf course. Over 1,400m above sea level, the fairways echo to the tinkle of cowbells and glacier-water tumbles down the slopes into clear streams. Every shot on this 18-hole par 72 championship course provides enchanting views of the valleys and encircling Alps. Some holes test the lungs, but the ball soars unbelievably far through the thin air.

Up until 1818 Andermatt was virtually inaccessible, prone to rockfalls and avalanches . Benedictine monks from the abbey across the pass called it “The Valley of the Devil.” In the ‘Flight Of The Earls’ from Ulster in 1608, the last Gaelic Chieftans lost a fortune when their gold fell into the ravine as they attempted to cross the treacherous ‘Devil’s Bridge’ on St Patrick’s Day. ‘The Lost Treasure Of The St Gotthard Pass’ has never been recovered.

When the St Gotthard railway tunnel was finished in 1881 Andermatt was bypassed completely, the line went underneath it. In the 20^th century the Swiss army Alpine unit trained there, afterwards it became an alternative ski resort to its more expensive neighbours St Moritz and Gstaad. Egyptian billionaire, Samih Sawiris committed £1.2billion to it's regeneration and it has now become one of the most prestigious resorts in the Alps, with the Chedi Andermatt and Radisson Blu hotels providing 5* accommodation never dreamed of by the shivering monks. Consistently winner of Switzerland's Top Course award, Andermatt is open on a pay and play basis. Holidaymakers can combine it with a treasure hunt for the lost gold.

AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL Rae's Creek flows behind the 11th green and in front of the 12th in what is known as Amen Corner. The creek is named after Irish landowner John Rae, who built a fortress home there in 1734.  Rae’s house was the farthest up the Savannah River from Fort Augusta, and neighbours would use it as a safe haven during Indian (sorry, Native American) attacks.

SIX OF THE LAST 13 winners of the Masters (three of them Phil Mickelson) have been left-handed.Apparently if you naturally hit a draw you have more success at Augusta, because several holes require right-to-left tee shots. Lefties can hit a cut where right-handed players have to hit a draw, although the way Mickelson played when he won his three Masters, it probably wouldn’t have mattered which hand he used.

One of the most miraculous shots ever seen at Augusta was by lefty Bubba Watson, who was looking to be in deep trouble when he drove his tee shot into the trees on the sudden-death playoff with Louis Oosthuizen. Standing at almost a right-angle to the pin, and using a wedge, he punched the ball through a narrow opening between the pines then bent it on a seemingly impossible trajectory 162 yds down the fairway and on to the centre of the green. He admitted it helped playing left-handed. Perhaps Rory should try it.

A CHIPPING TIP from Pitch Perfect: Good chippers start with the shaft forward at address. This hinges the wrists and creates the angle required for a solid downward strike. After that they just have to maintain the angle through the swing. Do the same and you’ll make smooth, solid contact every time. (Oh yeah!)

SINCE THE FIRST Masters dinner was arranged by Ben Hogan in 1952 some pretty exotic meals have been served, like sushi (Matsuyama, 2022) or wild boar and elk (Mike Weir, 2004.) Tiger did go for cheeseburgers after his first win in 1998, but his choice went more upmarket with every Masters victory. The Brits went for more homely fare. Nick Faldo chose fish and chips and tomato soup and Danny Willett Sunday roast and crumble and custard. Bubba Watson said he wanted plain food, his idea of plain food is apparently chicken/peanut/banana wraps. Not sure what the yanks made of Sandy Lyle's choice which was of course, haggis.

CATCHING UP ON 2024 GOLF NEWS

 MARCH TO AUGUST NEWS AND EVENTS

The Corsican town of Bonifacio 

NOT FAR FROM Sperone golf course, on the southern tip of Corsica, lies the little town of Bonifacio, with it's winding streets and spectacular views.  If Sperone Golf Course had existed back in 1769 when Napoleon was born he would probably never have left Corsica but taken up golf instead. The Robert Trent Jones course is said to resemble Pebble Beach but with heady aromas of rosemary and thyme from the maquis. (scrub) The tee shot heading over the turquoise sea on the par-five 16th is terrifying, and on a windy day you will be buffeted from all directions on the back nine.  A relatively short 6680 yards and par 72 off the tiger tees Sperone provides a challenging experience. Afterwards you could take a boat trip from Bonifacio to Santa Teresa in Sardinia, passing through the dreaded “Straights of Bonifacio,” which, like the 16^th at Sperone, is not for the faint-hearted. Corsica has no intention of becoming another Ibiza, it is expensive and unless you bring sacks of doubloons the natives are not much friendlier than Napoleon. But it does have amazing little towns, great beaches, and one gorgeous 18-hole golf course.

THE WASTE MANAGEMENT Phoenix Open has a rival. The Puerto Rico Open (Grand Reserve Country Club, 7-10^th March) is heralded as “The most fun-filled golf tournament on the PGA Tour!” Not quite sure why it has earned this title, but if it means people falling off stands, slanging matches between fans and players and punch-ups all over the course then the Tour could probably do without another fun-filled tournament.

TIGER AND RORY are both using the Taylor Made Qi10 LS driver. We don't know Tigers's opinion as he had to dash for the loo mid-round at Riviera and Rory probably chucked his in the lake, but testers have given the driver the thumbs up. Qi stands for 'quest for inertia,' the quest to produce the least twisting head for off centre shots. The less a club twists the better, your bad shots will go further and stay closer to the fairway, giving consistency off the tee. The Qi10 LS driver features an Infinity Crown, characterised by a continuous carbon construction from the rear of the head to the face, which reduces weight and enables redistribution to better strategic positions for optimising launch and spin. The driver retains the twist face technology and incorporates a sliding weight providing additional options for fine-tuning and customisation. Testers conclusion: The Qi 10 LS driver will give the better players an advantage, provided they don't have flu or a putting meltdown.

HICKORY GOLF is enjoying a renaissance as players restore old clubs and wear golf outfits of the period.  Gt. Britain and Ireland will take on Europe in a three-day hickory golf tournament at the Royal Blackheath Golf Club in July. Why play with hickory clubs? Why play with a driver with a sweetspot the size of a pin-head? Why carry only six clubs in a pencil bag when you could have 14 on a remote-controlled trolley? A passionate convert explains: “People play hickory because of the overall experience. it makes you appreciate just how good these guys were in the past. Hickory has life, steel doesn't. You learn to manufacture shots, you can't just bash at the ball. Hickories twist more than steel shafts, you need to swing slower. It's actually very good for your swing, you have to have a lighter grip. I never touch a modern club now, hickory is just so much more fun.” Even so, I can't see the attraction out here of plus fours in August.

I'm back working after my hernia op. In Torrevieja hospital the lady surgeon said to me “Don't worry you'll be playing golf in four weeks, and I replied “Well that's great, I couldn't play before.”

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

Spyglass Hill golf course

THE LEGEND that Robert Louis Stevenson roamed the hills and sandy dunes of Pebble Beach while writing his classic novel Treasure Island inspired the designers of Spyglass Hill in 1966, and holes were named after a significant place or character in the novel.

When Spyglass Hill joined the Bing Crosby National Pro-Am rotation it was considered a true championship test of golf and Bing was so confident of it's difficulty that he bet Jack Nicklaus he wouldn’t break par in his first round there. Jack shot a 2-under 70, and Bing presented him with a signed, framed $5 bill in commemoration. 

250 founders were roped in to help finance construction of the course, paying $2,500 up front and annual fees of $50. In return, they received 9 starting times each weekday and 12 every weekend. (These days a round at Spyglass costs upward of $500.)  Robert Trent Jones II, son of the course designer and one of the founding members said, “It became the best deal in golf, which is why the Pebble Beach Company wanted those starting times back.” In 2016 they finally got them back when the 50-year agreement came to an end. Only 12 of the founder members were still alive.

Despite being one of the most iconic events on the PGA Tour, many top players now tend to skip the Pebble Beach AT&T, citing long rounds, celebrity distractions, unsettled weather and the bumpy poa annua greens. In addition, the schedule faces competition from the Saudi International, LIV Mayacoba is scheduled for the same date. Oh for the good old uncomplicated days of the Crosby Clambake.

COBRA HAS ANNOUNCED that their new DarkSpeed driver is another leap forward in performance at a competitive price. As usual, there are three to choose from.

The low-spinning Darkspeed LS is tailored to Tour players and elite amateurs, with 8, 9 and 10 degrees of loft. The interchangeable weight system allows players to dial in their launch conditions and ball flight, keeping the heaviest weight on the back for more backspin, or moving it forward to reduce spin. With dashing good looks, the aerodynamic-shaped Cobra head has carbon in the sole and crown. Testers found it fast without compromising accuracy. 

The Darkspeed X is the middle-of-the-road driver for both low and middle-handicap golfers, and is available in lofts 9°, 10.5°, and 12° which makes it a suitable option for the vast majority. More aerodynamic than the Max, it offers speed and forgiveness. 

The Max driver has the same lofts and is the most forgiving in the Darkspeed range, but still delivers speed and competitive distance, and is the easiest to hit.  At £429.00 I'll have to take their word for it.

BILLY CASPER, who died in 2015 aged 83, was called “The nicest guy in the business.” Aways modest in victory and gracious in defeat, although overshadowed by the ‘Big Three’ (Palmer, Nicklaus and Player) he still won 51 PGA Tour titles, two US Opens and the 1970 Masters. His 23 1/2 points is still a U.S. Ryder Cup record, and he captained the U.S. squad to victory in 1979.

Billy had a lethal putter and total self-belief. “I had a hand/eye link,” he would say. “I could look at a telephone pole 40 yards away and hit it with a 7 iron 10 times in a row. And somehow I understood the game, without having a lot of guidance." 

THE ‘CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS’ in Beijing is looking to produce more world and Olympic champions. One of China’s ‘Centres of Excellence’ teaching badminton, gymnastics, table tennis and golf, the golf hall consists of bare walls, no windows, the Chinese flag, and about 30 children aged between 5 and 9, putting and chipping in front of mirrors for two hours a day after normal school work, no doubt all part of Confucious's instructions to go and beat the pants off everybody. Golf however, tends to produce unlikely champions without intensive training. Like Billy Casper.

WELCOME TO 2024 WITH MICK THE GRIP

 Hi Everyone.

Welcome to 2024 and new editions of "IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP"

We hope to bring you a lighter approach to golf news each month and a look at what the year has in store for us golfers.

JANUARY 2024

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

I SPENT some very enjoyable evenings over Christmas (fortunately Er Indoors likes golf too) watching “Pro Celebrity Golf” on Youtube. Golf had been broadcast on BBC since 1956, but the Pro Celebrity challenge which appeared on the screens in 1977 was a new idea. To ensure good coverage the first matches were for the Bing Crosby Cup with the man himself presenting the trophy. Henry Longhurst introduced the programme, handing over to the dulcet tones of Peter Alliss for the commentary. Gleneagles, Turnberry and other notable courses were the venues. It was an education to watch the skill of the pros with their wooden-headed clubs. In the picture are Lee Trevino, Sean Connery, Max Faulkner and Jackie Stewart. Later on the pro golfers included Nick Faldo (Mr. Pringle) and Seve, while celebrities included Bruce Forsyth, Henry Cooper and Russ Abbott. If you fancy a trip down memory lane I can recommend it. 

BERNHARD LANGER and his 23 year old son Jason carded a final round 59 to win the 2023 PNC Championship in December (Formerly the Father/Son Championship.) It was Bernhard's 5^th victory, after previously winning with eldest son Stefan in 2005 and 2006 and Jason in 2014 and 2019. He has also competed with both his daughters. The PNC Championship dates from 1995, when 10 major winners gathered with their sons. It now features 20 major champions and their relatives competing for the total $1 million purse in a 2 day, 36 hole scramble for the Willie Park Trophy. 

David Duval, who finished 2^nd with son Brady said; “It's the best golfing week of the year. You're on pins and needles through August, hoping to see that invite from Alastair (The founder.) I'm sure with the majority of folks who play at our age it's the most coveted invite in golf. They only take 20 teams and there's probably 25 on the waiting list. To be asked to come back it's a dream come true every year it happens.”

When Lee Trevino was preparing for this years PNC he topped several balls on the range.  “I never, ever remember doing this in my life,” he said. His son, Daniel, 31, who is partnering him, suggested he contact renowned instructor Randy Smith, who teaches world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. But Trevino made a vow many years ago that he would never take a lesson from anybody he could beat. He rang Smith and said, “Have you got 15 minutes to look me over ? I think you could beat me now.”

PGA TOUR “SIGNATURE EVENTS” are due to arrive on the calendar in 2024.The eight tournaments - which don't include the Majors, playoff events and Players Championship - will feature smaller fields but increased prize purses and more FedEx Cup points (700 to the winner of each).

The Signature Events consist of: The Sentry (Tournament of Champions) Kapalua Plantation Course, Hawaii. AT&T ProAm, Pebble Beach. Genesis Invitational, Riviera Country Club. Arnold Palmer Invitational, Bay Hill. RBC Heritage, Harbour Town. Wells Fargo Championship, Quail Hollow. The Memorial, Muirfield Village. Travelers Championship, TPC River Highlands.

THE HERO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC returns to the Emirates Golf Club 18-21^st January. The opening DP World Tour 2024 Rolex Series event will feature defending champion Rory McIlroy alongside some of the world’s top golfers, competing for the $9million prize pool. Daily entertainment, live music, a dedicated kids’ zone, and four fun-filled days are promised. General admission tickets are free, although food and drinks cost the earth. Still if you lived in Dubai that wouldn't bother you.

Golf Monthly Awards 2023: Shot of the year: Carlota CIganda 17^th hole, final day, Solheim Cup.

Round of the year: Bryson Dechambeau, LIV Greenbriar (12 under par 58)

Up and Coming star: Ludvig Aberg, Turned Pro in June, Won on PGA and DP World Tour, shone in Ryder Cup.

Tournament of the year: Solheim Cup.

It was a great golfing year. Let's hope 2024 is even better.

NEW YEAR SPECIAL OFFER ON GRIPS.

7 FOR THE PRICE OF 6 AND 13 FOR THE PRICE OF 11

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. Tel. 638 859 475.or visit https://mickthegrip.blogspot.com

SEPTEMBER ARTICLE WHISTLING WHILE YOU WORK

IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP

The Straits Course

WHISTLING STRAITS in Wisconsin, designed by Pete Dye to resemble links courses in the West of Ireland, was constructed on a former military airbase. With two miles of undulating shoreline and countless bunkers, golfers say the wind coming off Lake Michigan makes for an 'interesting game.' Most links courses offer the option of running a shot up along the sloping turf, especially if it’s played out of high fescue. Justin Rose says: “Whistling Straits is more target golf than links, the ball doesn't run there.”

Steve Stricker has had some fairways widened, to the advantage of the Americans. Fair enough, in 2018 at Le Golf National the fairways were narrowed, forcing the Americans into playing a throttled-down, precision-focused game. But a secret weapon at Whistling Straits may be the bald eagle which lives on the course. The Yanks have probably trained it to perch on the grandstand glowering down on the opposition, or soar over them dropping a greeting as they tee off. 

“PEACOCK OF THE FARWAYS” Doug Sanders, who has died aged 86, was known for his smart dressing. “Everything is co-ordinated,” he would say. “My shirts, slacks, socks, even my underwear. I take six suitcases to every tournament.” Remembered in particular for missing a short putt to win The Open at St Andrews in 1970, he lost out to Jack Nicklaus in a play-off the following day. “I might have been a very rich man if I'd sunk that putt,” he would sigh. Even so, he'd come a long way from Georgia, picking cotton as a boy during the Depression. Aged 10, he caddied at a local course, attended University on a golf scholarship and turned professional in 1956. having already won the Canadian Open. 

Sanders won a further 19 times on the PGA Tour and played on the 1967 US Ryder Cup team in Houston when the USA won by (cough) a rather large margin. 

JUSTIN ROSE, asked about his memories of previous Ryder Cups: “The gala dinner can be nice if you're sitting with the right people – they mix the teams, so it's the calm before the storm when everyone is still quite jovial.” After more than five minutes of Patrick Reed's “joviality” one would probably be tempted to empty one's soup on his head.

Justin is to receive the 2021 PGA Tour's Payne Stewart Award, given in honour of the 11-time PGA Tour winner who died in a plane crash in 1999. The award is presented to the golfer who exemplifies character, charity and sportsmanship. The Kate and Justin Rose Foundation which provides food and books for deprived schoolchildren will receive the $300.000 donation. In 2020 Justin and his wife Kate launched the Rose Ladies Series in the UK and for many years Justin has sponsored the Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship. The second English player to receive the award after Sir Nick Faldo in 2014, Justin recently gave a very diplomatic interview in Today's Golfer regarding previous Ryder Cup teams. Sir Nick is justly praised for a lot of things but probably not diplomacy.

A HOST OF HOME HOPEFULS will try to make it three English victories in a row at the BMW PGA Championship from the 9-12th September. Defending champion Tyrrell Hatton will be joined at Wentworth by 2020 Race to Dubai Champion Lee Westwood, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose and Ian Poulter in the 3rd Rolex Series event of the 2021 Race to Dubai. Along with The Two Matts (Fitzpatrick and Wallace) they will be hoping to delight the fans and impress Padraig Harrington in the final Ryder Cup countdown. 

SOME REVIEWS recommend cavity irons filled with air, some prefer foam. To please everyone Taylor Made have injected their “All New” P790 irons with “Speedfoam Air” which is 69% less dense than the Speedfoam in their previous two models, apparently giving increased speed. A mere $1.299 for a 7-piece set. Will T. Made's customers go for it? If they do the Speedfoam won't be the only thing that's dense.