Bleacher Report - Articles by Peter Hughes

Donald Trump...You're Fired!

Peter Hughes — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:28:20 -0500

Donald Trump, the billionaire property developer, may have coerced or even charmed the Scottish Nationalist Party into granting him permission to build high-rise timeshare flats, a eight-story hotel and what he terms "the world's greatest golf course" on an ecologically sensitive stretch of dunes overlooking the North Sea.

The question is: Has the New York-based businessman, who says he was "greatly honoured" after Scottish ministers in Edinburgh confirmed his dream, bitten off more than he can chew?

Over recent years, entrepreneurs from America and the Far East, hoping to cash in on the golf craze, have speculated huge sums investing in new golf complexes throughout the United Kingdom, and many of their ventures have crumbled into dust.

In England, two of the causalities were Wentworth and the Oxfordshire Club, bought by Japanese investors during the 1980s and sold at a loss some years later.

Loch Lomond, opened with a flourish in 1994, designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, with the former almost killed before the first ball was struck, is estimated to have cost several million pounds.

Membership is restricted to only a chosen few, including Prince Edward, Duke of York.

Only last week, reports in the media stated the complex is up for sale by its owners, The Anderson Companies of Scottsdale, Ariz.

Trump may have made some friends in "Auld Reekie" (Edinburgh), but he has certainly made some foes in the Highlands of Scotland, in particular, Michael Forbes, a salmon fisherman, who with his wife, Sheila, owns a 23-acre spread of rambling farm buildings, located beside the future site of the world's greatest golf course.

Donald Trump has offered Michael Forbes £450,000 for his home at Mill of Menie and had his cash totally turned down.

Michael said, "They reckon the construction will last over 10 years, but I'll never, ever sell to that loudmouth bully."

Another local comment is "Trump's development is about flogging fancy apartments to the landed gentry in Pringle sweaters."

Could it be a New York high flyer falls to a Highlander?

Get Well Soon, Seve Ballesteros

Peter Hughes — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 01:36:15 -0400

The golfing world has been stunned this week by the plight of Severiano Ballesteros, critically ill in a Madrid hospital.

Since Seve first appeared during the 1976 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, he has thrilled and captivated galleries in all parts of the world with displays of supreme skill and derring-do.

Born in Pedrena, Northern Spain, on April 9, 1957, Seve turned professional in 1974 and between 1976 and 1999 won 52 titles, including three Opens (1979, 1984, and 1988) plus two Masters at Augusta in 1980 and 1983.

There is no doubt he has been Europe's top player for several decades and certainly ranks in the top five in the world during the same period.

Seve's power of recovery from impossible positions on courses throughout the world borders on the miraculous. He has played shots any other human would class impossible.

It is therefore, almost beyond belief, he has been struck down in such tragic circumstances. Hopefully, he will recover in the hospital as successfully as during his playing career.

In the meantime, all the world of golf can do is to wait anxiously for his complete recovery.

Why Have Irish Professional Golfers Been Ostracized ?

Peter Hughes — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:56:14 -0400

One of the greatest accolades to a professional golfer in Europe or the United States is to be nominated as captain of a Ryder Cup team.

Those who have been granted the honour hold it in high esteem, because in general it is an indication of their standing in and contribution to the game of golf.

Ireland has had her fair share of professionals who qualify for this status on the world stage.

Fred Daly was the first Irishman in 1947 to make the Ryder Cup team and was quickly followed by Harry Bradshaw and Christy O'Connor.

Graeme McDowell was the 19th to join the list this year.

The post-mortems on the Vahalla match have taken place, and much emphasis has been directed towards who will be European captain at Celtic Manor in 2010.

Nick Faldo has stated he is not interested. Some have suggested Sandy Lyle, a much respected and worthy nomination from Scotland. Others have muted Ian Woosnam, who led the team in 2006 and he has reacted favourably to the suggestion.

Other names have been bandied about, but strange as it might appear, Irishmen have been conspicuous by their absence.

Is there a reason behind this state of affairs ?

It cannot be a lack of suitable and most worthy candidates.

Christy O'Connor Jr., Des Smith, Eamon D'Arcy, Ronan Rafferty, Eddie Polland, and even David Feherty are still alive and kicking!

With the galaxy of "young lions" appearing on the European Tour, it is very likely Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley will find it difficult to qualify for the team, should they not be given consideration? At least they should be mentioned as possibles.

The USPGA have used a tried-and-trusted method of ensuring those worthy are honoured by rotating the position on a match basis and have also gone as far as to appoint "Honorary Captains" in the persons of Vic Gezzi, Walter Hagen, Ed Dudley, and Lloyd Mangrum.

The European selectors would do well to follow this policy.

So far, a fistful of Englishmen, six from Scotland and Wales, a Spaniard, and a German have been honoured.

Will the Irish finally be acknowledged in 2010?

The Faldo Follies 2008

Peter Hughes — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 23:56:41 -0400

First, many congratulations to Paul Azinger and his team for their stupendous victory yesterday in Kentucky.

Captain Azinger led his side with passion, verve and tenacity to regain the Ryder Cup, and every member responded magnificently to the occasion.

Sadly, Nick Faldo did not measure up to his responsibilities in a like manner and chose to continue in the same mould displayed during his playing days.

He has always been self-obsessed, a loner, who preferred his own company to that of others, thus finding it most difficult to communicate with the outside world, in particular, the media.

There are reports he has changed his attitude in recent years in America, whilst seeking employment in that sphere, however on this side of the Atlantic, there are too many hacks who remember the Faldo of old.

How he was chosen to lead the European team is worthy of scrutiny.

History brings us back to 1981, when nomination was made by the PGA who chose John Jacobs for the post. The recipient was expected to pay up to 100 pounds of his own money for the accolade of being captain.

The following year, the European Tour usurped the Ryder Cup from the PGA and with it went many responsibilities, including the choice of captain.

Tony Jacklin was appointed four times, Bernard Gallacher thrice, before they decided to rotate the honour on a match basis.

Today, the incumbent can expect to prolong his career through entry to Senior Tours, sponsorship contracts, etc. etc. amounting to much financial rewards.

It was obvious Nick Faldo coveted the job through the efforts of those in his management. How he was selected is entirely another matter.

From the start of his reign, things began to go wrong. Paul McGinley resigned as vice-captain for reasons unknown, and Faldo failed to replace him. His dealings with the media went from bad to worse and when he attempted to extract himself with his own style of humour, it went down like a lead balloon.

During the past week or so, gaffe followed gaffe, culminating with his line up for the final singles which was disastrous.

He must shoulder the blame, although some of the responsibility must accrue to those who selected him. One wonders, will they learn the lesson?

How the Ryder Cup Can Be Won or Lost

Peter Hughes — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 22:04:12 -0400

The acid test will be on the first two days of Foursomes and Fourballs. The overall score at that time will probably give a clear indication whether the trophy will be retained or regained.

History indicates if either team has a substantial lead going into the final day's singles, inevitably, it wins the most coveted honour in world golf.

Both captains, therefore, must give specific attention to the pairings they select and how they position them in the draw.

Foursomes and Fourballs, seldom, if ever, are played on the professional tours in world golf, although both, in particular the latter, dominate with club golfers throughout the year.

The two modes require players of differing temperaments, with Foursomes demanding most from any pairing. It is so easy to lose if one partner does not have complete empathy with his partner throughout the match.

This is an element which has been extremely strong in the European camp in recent years. Paul Azinger must study it closely before next Thursday.

Nick Faldo would do well to cogitate upon his failings in 1971 at Kiawah Island, when paired with David Gilford, a rookie, whom he ignored from the first tee. Consequently they were hammered 7&6 by Paul Azinger and Mark O'Meara.

So how may the teams line up on Thursday?

The United States could select any four from five:

Mickelson/Kim. Furyk/Curtis. Cink/Stricker. Leonard/Mahan. Perry/Holmes.

Europe's partnerships:

Harrington/Westwood. Karlssonn/Stenson. Casey/Poulter. Jimenez/Garcia. Rose/Hansen.

With the same order on the draw sheet (excluding one pairing)

Forecast : Anybody's guess !!!

Henry Cotton: Ryder Cup's "Captain Extraordinary"

Peter Hughes — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 22:17:14 -0400

How the Ryder Cup has changed since 1953. The US team who played at Wentworth, captained by Lloyd Mangrum consisted of Jack Burke, Ted Kroll, Lloyd Mangrum, Sam Snead, Cary Middlecoff, Jim Turnesa, Walter Burkemo, Ed Oliver, Dale Douglas, and Jay Haas.

Great Britain & Ireland had Dai Rees, Harry Bradshaw, Fred Daly, Eric Brown, Harry Weetman, Max Faulkner, John Panton, Jimmy Adams, Peter Alliss and Bernard Hunt. The last couple were "rookies" and the non-playing captain was Henry Cotton.

The match played over Thursday and Friday had 36 hole foursomes on the first day to be followed with eight singles on Friday.

Cotton truly believed his team had an excellent chance of winning. To this end he assembled them on the Sunday prior to the fixture at Sunningdale GC, ensconced them in the Dormy House, employed top class caterers and used the course facilities to study his best options for the foursomes, which he considered to be vital for success. In 1953, Cotton had to pay most of the expenses incurred!

Early on Monday he made the decision to pair Harry Bradshaw with Fred Daly. Weetman & Alliss, Brown & Panton, Adams & Hunt followed the next day.

On Wednesday, prior to leaving for Wentworth, Fred Daly pleaded with his captain to be left out because he had a recurring problem with "the yips" and would be a hindrance to his great friend, Harry.

Cotton totally refused his pleas and stated categorically both would be playing at No. 4 on the team sheet. His reasoning would be revealed later!

Fred Daly stood only 5-foot-7 and to gain length off the tee, John Letters, who made his clubs, extended the shaft of his driver by eight inches. It meant Daly had a very pronounced body sway on the backswing with his head moving substantially to the right at the same time. However, in the hitting area everything returned to the norm!

Harry Bradshaw played hurling as a youth and so developed this grip when he converted to golf. It was called "two fisted", the right hand completely over the top of the left and as he was rather portly, some called his swing, agricultural.

The US won the first three matches easily, but Daly & Bradshaw beat the strongest US pairing of Burkemo & Middlecoff by one hole.

The next day proved Cotton's thinking was, as they say today, "out of the box."

Daly beat Kroll 9&7, Brown beat Mangrum by 2 holes, Weetman beat Snead 1 up, Bradshaw beat Haas 3&2 and Hunt halved with Douglas.

The US won by one match, and if Bernard Hunt and Peter Alliss had not suffered from stage fright the result could have been reversed.

The captain's strategy was basic: play the two Irishmen with their idiosyncrasies against the American top foursome, hope for a win and leave the visitors to ponder how this happened!

It very nearly proved to be successful and clearly illustrates how necessary it is to have a good leader.

Carl Pettersson: The Swede Who Got Under Nick Faldo's Radar

Peter Hughes — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 22:42:46 -0400

Nick Faldo's proud boast on being appointed captain of Europe's Ryder Cup team was that everyone would be considered when it came down to selecting his "picks," once the top 10 were confirmed.

Faldo has never failed to be controversial throughout his career, and assuming the captaincy has been no exception.

His choice of Casey and Poulter, in particular the latter, has not met with general acclaim and the question must arise about how wide he cast his net in search of possible contenders?

Some claim there was an anti-Irish attitude in overlooking Darren Clarke, whose spectacular victory in the KLM Dutch Open supposedly entitled the man from Dungannon a place in the team.

Nick Faldo spends a lot of time in the US, yet it would appear he is not entirely au fait with golf in America.

Carl Pettersson hails from Gothenburg and plays almost all of his golf on the PGA tour, an infinitely more demanding circuit than its European equivalent.

A week before Clarke's victory, Pettersson was 21-under par in winning the Wyndham Championship in Greensboro, N.C. This was the Swede's fifth top 10 finish during the current year, including a sixth place in the US Open Championship.

He is in 17th place on the money list, which places him as the third-ranked European in PGA tournaments. If he had been an American, he would have qualified automatically for Paul Azinger's team!

Radar was the principal reason why the RAF won The Battle of Britain in 1940.

Could it be that "Faldo Radar" will contribute to a European defeat in 2008?

The Irascible Tommy Bolt 1916- 2008

Peter Hughes — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 09:23:29 -0400

Tommy Bolt twice played in US Ryder cup teams during the '50s and left his mark in both fixtures.

At Thunderbird Ranch and Country Club in Palm Springs, Tommy made his debut in 1955 and on Day 1 in the 36-Hole Foursomes, paired with Jack Burke against Arthur Lees and Harry Weetman.

The British pair completed the morning session in 68, but they could only take one hole from Bolt and Burke. On the back nine, the British pair finished in a remarkable 31 strokes.

The Americans refused to waver in the afternoon, and although Lees and Weetman went out in 34, they could not increase their lead. The match was squared through tremendous play by Bolt who really came into his own after the turn. The home team led by a hole on the 18th tee.

Bolt's superb iron to the green landed only a couple of yards from the pin and although Weetman holed a downhill 12-footer for a birdie to have a chance of a half; Burke and Bolt sank their birdie putts to record a one-hole win.

Day 2 saw Tommy Bolt took on rookie Christy O'Connor, who won the first, but Tommy was two up at the turn and then won a further two holes to go into lunch with a three-hole advantage.

The Irishman had the temerity to pull back two on the temperamental American after the break. "Thunder" Bolt was unnerved by the comeback and started to throw a few clubs in his own inimitable style.

O'Connor, had probably never seen anything like this before and completely lost his concentration. The outburst rejuvenated Tommy Bolt, who reasserted his authority and clinched a win by 4 and 2.

Lindrick Golf Club in Yorkshire was the venue for Tommy's next and final appearance in 1957. He was paired with Dick Mayer, the US Open champion. They had a very impressive victory by 7 and 5 over Christy O'Connor and Eric Brown.

The singles however turned out to be Bolt's swan song. Dai Rees, the British & Ireland captain put his "hard man," Eric Brown, out first to meet the American and help reverse the overall score which had the US leading, 3-1.

The two highly combative players were late arriving on the tee, which drew the retort from Jimmy Demaret he saw them standing at 50 paces, throwing clubs at each other!

At lunch, Brown was four up, with no quarter being asked or given. Well into the final 18 holes, the resilient Scotsman countered everything thrown at him, including clubs, and finally recorded a morale-boosting 4 and 3 victory.

After the ill-tempered match, the players refused to shake hands and Bolt claimed he had not enjoyed himself, to which Brown replied, "I don't suppose you did, because even on the first tee you never had an earthly hope of beating me."

In the locker room later afterward, Tommy reportedly broke a wedge in two and did not put in an appearance at the presentation ceremony with GB & I winning the Ryder Cup for the first time in 20 years.

Samuel Ryder's intention to foster goodwill and fellowship seemed to take a back seat in 1957!

The Immortal Robert Tyre Jones

Peter Hughes — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 21:28:50 -0400

The following is taken from a book entitled "100 Greatest Golfers" by Ian Morrison (Biscon Books 1988):

"When he retired from competitive golf at the age of 28 in 1930, Bobby Jones was able to look back on one of the most remarkable records in the history of golf.

An amateur throughout his career, he won 13 majors, a record that remained until beaten by Jack Nicklaus. Bobby Jones also held the unique record of winning the amateur championships of Britain and the United States, as well as the Open championships of both countries, all within a single year, 1930.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1902, Jones gradulated from college with engineering, law and literature degrees. It was to law Jones turned, building up a successful legal practice in Augusta.

Because of his business interests he chose to reject lucrative offers to turn professional. In spite of his amateur status Bobby Jones was regarded as the greatest golfer of his era, if not all time. And, at a time when the professional ranks were rife with talent like Gene Sarazen and Walter Hagen.

Jones started playing golf at the age of five and quickly realized the importance of a good swing. He went on to develop a swing that was full and fluent, involving a full 90-degree turn of the hips. His completely mastery of the swing enabled him to get not only to, but to stay at the top of the game.

He won his first major in 1923 when he took the US Open. Next he won the first of his five US Amateur in 1924.

His most outstanding year commenced on the 31st May 1930, when he beat Britain's Roger Wethered 7 & 6 to win the British Amateur Title at St Andrews. Less than a month later he won the British Open at Hoylake when he beat his fellow American Leo Diegel by two strokes.

Next he won the US Open, also by two strokes, from Macdonald Smith at Interlachen. Then on the 27 September, record crowds flocked to see whether Jones could pull off golf's greatest feat by completing the Grand Slam. He did, with an easy 8 & 7 victory over Eugene Homans in the US Amateur at Merion—on the same course he won his first US Amateur title in 1924.

Having achieved this ultimate accolade in his golfing career Bobby Jones retired to concentrate on his legal practice. He was not lost to golf altogether, however, because he went on to make a series of instructional films.

He was also largely responsible for the inauguration of the US Masters in 1934. Although he played in the event every year from its beginning until 1946, the competitive edge had gone from his game.

In the 1950's Jones learned he was suffering from a spinal disease. He made the trip to St Andrews in 1958 for the first Eisenhower Trophy match where he was given the freedom of the Burgh of St Andrews in recognition of his 1930 triumph.

In the end Jones became paralysed in his arms and legs and he died with dignity is Augusta in 1971."

A superb movie entitled "Bobby Jones—Stroke of Genius" is well worth watching.

Darren Clarke: The Indefatigable Ulsterman

Peter Hughes — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 08:20:06 -0400

At the start of 2008, Darren Clarke's chance of appearing in this year's Ryder Cup in September could have been likened to a snowball's survival in hell.

Darren was born in Dungannon, County Tyrone on 14 August 1968, became a professional in 1990 and immediately made a name for himself by recording scores of 60 twice. The first came in the European Monte Carlo Open in 1992; and he repeated the feat in the European Open at the K club in 1999.

Clarke cemented his worldwide reputation when he won the World Golf Championship, beating Tiger Woods 4 and 3 to take the $1 million prize. He repeated the success in winning the NEC Invitational at Firestone CC in Akron, Ohio.

He has appeared in five Ryder Cup teams during 1997, 1999, 2002, 2004 & 2006. The latter appearance came just a few weeks after the death of his wife, Heather, from cancer.

The tragedy took a lot from Darren, as he has two sons to care for, Tyrone (6) and Conor (2). His world was shot to pieces and his appearance at The K Club illustrated his true grit.

After the match, golf became secondary and many believed he would never again dominate in the game.

His game really went to pieces and he rapidly dropped down in the world ratings.

Just two months ago. he made a stupendous comeback in winning the BWA Asian Open in Shanghai.

Last weekend, he romped away with the KLM Dutch Open with scores of 68, 64, 66 and 66 to finish four shots ahead of his good friend and Ryder Cup colleague, Paul McGinley.

In years gone by, in County Tyrone, bards from the town of Dungannon toured the countryside during the winter evenings entertaining. On reaching a cottage they would inevitably rap on the door, to be greeted from within with the words: "Come in, Dungannon, for I know your knock."

Hopefully, Nick Faldo will respond in the affirmative to Darren's knock, as he considers his "picks" for this years match.

Is Tiger Woods the Destroyer of The Triumvirate?

Peter Hughes — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 23:32:56 -0400

Who would believe, behind the smile, lurks one of golf's deadliest annihilators?

Consider the facts.

Since 1894, every decade has produced one man who has dominated the game for a year or two. However, inevitably two, perhaps more, have rose to issue a challenge.

James Braid was probably the first to dominate the sport, and within months he stimulated John Henry Taylor and Harry Vardon to claim his throne.

Their success resulted in the trio becoming the first to be known as "The Triumvirate."

During the 1915 era, Walter Hagen mounted the pedestal and alongside him in a matter of months, he was joined by Gene Sarazen and Tommy Armour.

The 1940s witnessed another battle for supremacy among Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson and Sam Snead and there is still arguments today, who among them was "Top Dog."

Arnold D. Palmer, during the immediate post war years, for a short time, became "The King", before Gary Player arrived from South Africa to claim his crown and from Ohio, another triumvirate was formed with the advent of Jack Nicklaus.

Even a little country like Ireland got into the act when Fred Daly claimed his place in history, but Harry Bradshaw and Christy O'Connor ensured he was not alone.

Eldrick "Tiger" Woods has reigned supreme since 2000.

A few have attempted, without much success, to overthrow him and unless his current knee problems curtail his prowess, things are not likely to change during the next decade.

Will Tiger be known as the man who eliminated triumvirates?

A European PGA Champion? Not Since the Speakeasy Days

Peter Hughes — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 22:31:04 -0400

The last time a European won The PGA Championship, Herbert Hoover was in The White House, and Al Capone was plying his trade in Chicago!

The gentleman who lifted The Wanamaker Trophy in 1930 was Tommy Armour, who hailed from Scotland and later established an excellent reputation as a professional in America.

With The Ryder Cup next month, hopes are high a European will break the hoodoo this year. After the first round at Oakland Hills, it appears this may happen.

Robert Karlson, Jeev Milkha Singh, Sergio Garcia and Padraig Harrington, without mastering "The Monster," are in a position to win on Sunday.

Sadly, the rest of the British contingent are well down the field and some may not even qualify for the final two rounds.

What a conundrum this will create for Nick Faldo, who captains Europe at Valhalla.

The media in the UK are demanding Faldo uses Montgomerie as one on his "picks" and although the Scotsman has an excellent record in Ryder Cup matches, currently his form is woeful and he is well down in the merit ratings.

Moreover, after his 76 in the first round, Montgomerie was complaining in his usual style, the course was badly set up and far too long !

The question is:

When Brits play poorly, why is the course always the cause?

Paul Azinger Gathers His Thoughts for Ryder Cup

Peter Hughes — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 21:39:44 -0400

Paul Azinger has many thoughts on his mind.

Who will be the automatic selections for next month's Ryder Cup Team, and who are the best to include as his four picks?

Once these have been finalized, he must turn his mind to how to pair his players for the opening two days of foursomes and fourballs. Each requires different skills, attitudes, strategies, and personalities.

Foremost in his mind must be a plan to ensure The Ryder Cup is regained by his team.

He will not be short on advice, so he will have to decide what to accept and what to ignore.

The caption for the photo may well read: "That's not a bad idea, son."

History shows the Cup has been won and lost on the last day's singles. Each of the 12 matches brings the best out of the contestants.

Match play demands a completely different approach to golf than medal play.

Confidence plays a vital role from the first tee; a straight drive down the fairway is important. Winning the hole can often decide the outcome of the match.

Knowing when to attack and when to defend is essential. Attacking the course comes into play only, when four or five holes up!

The United States in former years has had a galaxy of professionals who have contributed immensely to their team's successes.

Arnold Palmer, Billy Casper, Sam Snead, Lee Trevino, Tom Kite, Gene Littler, Raymond Floyd, Jack Nicklaus, Gene Sarazen and Lanny Watkins have won 50 singles matches and have been ably abetted by Gene Littler, Fred Couples, Hale Irwin, Justin Leonard, and Paul Azinger, himself.

The techniques they employed may well be of help to the 2008 team. Photographs and records, located in the US Team room, could help Paul achieve his ambition.

Is it an idea he should consider worth adopting?

Drugs and Golf: Was Gary Player Really Talking Through His Hat?

Peter Hughes — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 21:40:21 -0400

During The British Open Championship at Carnoustie in 2007, Gary Player caused a rumpus throughout the world of golf, claiming he had been informed by three unnamed professionals that illegal drugs had been used in recent years by those on tour.

When pressed to name the players concerned, the South African refused, claiming his information was given in strictest confidence.

Generally, his claim was pooh-poohed and some media even went as far as to state Player was seeking publicity for his latest book.

On the face of it they may well have had a case. What good would bodybuilding steroids be to a golfer?

However, beta-blockers have been used by professional snooker players to calm nerves during tournaments. Could this not also apply to golfers, in particular, on the tee and the putting green?

As far as a further book being published, this has not happened.

Many claim alcohol is a drug, whether it hinders or distracts from the performance of John Daly is open to question.

Drug testing by the US PGA and the European PGA, after debate with their members, was introduced recently alongside seminars to educate players on what "medicines" to avoid when visiting foreign shores.

Last week, after the first round of the Bridgestone Invitational, an official approached Colin Montgomerie, requesting a urine sample.

Perhaps beta-blockers would have been the order of the day!

Professional Ladies Golf is a Revelation!

Peter Hughes — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 04:09:50 -0400

Sunningdale Golf Club (established in 1900) is located just west of London and this week is host to The Rioch Women's British Open Championship, with contenders for the title hailing from all quarters of the world.

The Old Course at Sunningdale has been the venue for scores of male events over the years, has a par of 72 and the ladies in almost perfect weather have been really "burning it up."

The real eye-openers are those who come from Japan, China, and Korea. Most are really flyweights, to use a boxing idiom, quite small in stature, yet off the tee they hit the ball a proverbial mile.

It is all achieved by perfection in the swing combined with perfect timing. Therein lies a lesson for most males who believe length is obtained by pure muscular effort.

Another attribute is the ability to get down in two from off the green and when on the putting surface in regulation to leave the first putt absolutely dead.

Veteran Juli Inkster is in the process of repeating Greg Norman's performance in The Open Championship in July, but there can be little doubt, come Sunday she will go one step further if in the Aussie's position going into the final round.

Japan's Yuri Furdoh and Korea's Ji-Yai Shin, well in contention, are sure to make Juli go the final mile.

Luara Diaz caught the eye yesterday by creating a new record in Ladies Professonal Golf in making 3 eagles during the round.

It is fascinating to watch her swing. It's absolute perfection in every way, although at the apex, just prior to commencing the downswing, her head moves rapidly towards her right shoulder.

Shades of the late, great Irish amateur, James Bruen. His loop at the top of the backswing was the talk of the golfing world during the 1940s.

One slight observation has been the length of time for some contestants this week to complete 18 holes (almost five hours) and this could be attributed to the male tours where this was instigated some years ago.

Thank goodness, Bernhard Langer's former caddy, Pete Coleman, is on Yuri Furdoh's bag. He is forcing her to keep moving at all times!

Hunter Mahan Speaks Out

Peter Hughes — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:00:54 -0400

Hunter Mahan has never played in The Ryder Cup and certainly, if he has to rely on being a captain's pick, he never will.

Why? Because Hunter has had the guts to express his thoughts on the event and how the players are exploited.

The silence, over the years, by the European players has been deafening, because the contest was commercialized on this side of the Atlantic.

Samuel Ryder, the seedsman from St. Albans, presented his trophy to the PGA in 1927 with the intent to "foster good will between professional golfers in Great Britain and The United States of America."

During the 1980s, the European PGA captured 50 percent of the rights to the trophy. Immediately, sponsorship commenced and has eventually taken over.

The first to feel the full impact was the traditional venues used to stage the matches in England and Scotland.

The last to so do was Walton Heath Golf Club in 1981.

The Ryder Cup was moved to The Belfry, a modern hotel complex, in 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2002. The course itself was initially poor. Ordinary spectators found it left a lot to be desired.

For example, public car parking was located 15 miles away, making it necessary for coach travel back and forth. Food was expensive, and toilet facilities were limited.

However, accommodation for officials, players and most importantly VIPs and guests of the sponsors were second to none. Commercialization produced plenty of money but demanded much in return!

Was it a coincidence the PGA obtained a modern headquarters beside the hotel in 1987?

When the fixture moved to Spain and Ireland, conditions remained the same. Valdaerrama, paid a massive sum to host the Cup in 1997. This was repeated in 2006 with the move to The K Club, who outbid Portmarnock by millions of Euros.

Incidentally, the green fees at both locations have "gone through the roof" since.

Once the decision to commercialize Samuel Ryder's dream was made, the die was cast and inevitably something must be given in return.

Fostering goodwill between the players became secondary. The sponsors demanded and received a return on their "investments," and that means those who organize the match are duty-bound to comply with the wishes of those who open their wallets.

In Ireland, there is an ancient saying: HE WHO PAYS THE PIPER CALLS THE TUNE.

Hunter Mahan is the first to speak. How many will have the courage to follow?

Barry Willett Passed Away at Age 70

Peter Hughes — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:37:16 -0400

Barry Willett, aged 70, passed away this week.

His vision in providing Europe's No.1 golfer Neil Coles with a mobile workshop in 1970 was the forerunner of the massive transporter vehicles which now travel to every major tournament throughout the continent.

Barry, once a two-handicap player, forged a lifetime friendship with Neil after meeting him at St. Georges Hill GC in Surrey, where he first caddied for Max Faulkner before transferring his allegiance to Neil.

Barry Willett was taught as a clubmaker by Lambert Topping, who during his career was personal clubmaker to King Hussan of Morocco.

Willett, supported by his wife Barbara, conducted a clubmaking business at St. George Hill, until the lure of turning Cole's dream into reality by setting up a mobile workshop on the edge of practice grounds throughout the UK and Europe.

As his fame increased, more professionals sought his skills, including Seve Ballesteros and Nick Faldo.

After Mizuno embraced the concept, Willett marshaled the service, which, under the banner of The Official European Tour Workshop, became a fixture and was quickly followed by every major club and ball manufacturer in the world.

He retired in 1998 after the PGA Championship at Wentworth and has courageously battled illness for several years since.

Tributes to his devotion and love for the game have been paid by many present-day professionals, and he will be kindly remembered by many professionals throughout the world.

Sandy Lyle is Being Treated Unfairly by the British Media

Peter Hughes — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 03:23:12 -0400

How many among us golfers, amateur or professional, have been unfortunate enough to be halfway round a course, at 7 a.m. in horrendous weather conditions? Probably very few.

How many golfers who wear spectacles find it difficult to play, even in light rain?

Sandy Lyle, in last week's Open Championship was reluctantly forced to retire after nine holes with frozen hands (a condition he has suffered from for some time) and because he wears glasses, he found it impossible to see through the continuous torrential rain.

Ninety-nine out of 100 golfers would have done the same thing.

Unfortunately, the R&A and the British media have crucified Sandy, demanding he should never be considered to fulfill his lifetime ambition to captain a European Ryder Cup Team.

He has written a letter of apology to the R&A, which has been accepted, and in turn their CEO has declared the matter to be closed.

Not so the media, and what a strange assortment they are. For reasons best known to themselves, they delight in joining together like a pack of wolves on any poor unfortunate who happens to become a target.

There is a least one professional on the European Tour whose conduct over the years leaves a lot to be desired. He has caused havoc with obnoxious behaviour on courses throughout the world and escapes the wrath of the press who put it down to his desire to win, which in their opinion is the quality required to captain a European Team.

Total rubbish!

Sandy Lyle, has always been and will remain a gentleman of the highest order and certainly does not merit the castigation handed out in the past seven days.

An Open Letter to Tiger

Peter Hughes — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 21:40:23 -0400

Dear Tiger,

Conspicuous by your absence. Four words from Birkdale sums up your convalescence in sunny Florida, which everyone hopes is progressing apace.

The 2008 Open Championship produced many highlights, some good, some bad, and a finish which was truly magnificent.

During the first two days a "slight breeze" from the Irish Sea, accompanied with torrential rain caused a wee bit of consternation among the contestants.

Poor old Sandy Lyle, who surrendered after nine holes, was castigated by the media and the R&A who informed him in no uncertain terms, his chances of being a European Ryder Cup captain had dropped to zero. The furore created allowed Rich Bean, who did likewise, to escape under the radar!

Some of your fellow countrymen failed to make the cut after the second day of similar weather conditions. Some accepted it with good grace, "Calc" for instance smiled happily whilst declaring it was the rub of the green, and like General McArthur vowed he would return next year.

Jerry Kelly, in high dudgeon sought, in vain, a word or two with Peter Dawson, CEO of the R&A. Then late in the day, John Daly's caddie, burdened with a brand new set of clubs, some unused, plus copious cans of cola, dozens of burgers and heaven knows how many packs of gigarettes, trudged his weary way towards sanctury, whilst his master strolled behind totally unconcerned.

Those Americans who made it to the final stages, were a great credit to your nation, both in their play and demeanour. All were superb, but special mention is due to: Roco Mediate, Phil Mickelson, Jim Furyk, Ben Curtis, Davis Love, David Duval, Tom Leaman and Woody Austin.

A newcomer who created quite a stir was Camilo Villegas. Initally many scribes (including the writer) thought it a name taken from a medical journal, however the quality of his golf soon proved otherwise.

"The Great White Shark" almost achieved the impossible and indeed led the championship going into the last nine holes.

Then the "boyo" from Dublin changed gear and showed his Irish guts and determination to become the first professional, since James Braid in 1906, to capture "the auld claret jug" two years in succession.

Like yourself, Padraig Harrington is a great family man and his "extended" family plus half the population of Dublin were assembled around the final green for the presentations.

For 15 minutes, clutching the jug to his chest, he paid tribute and thanks to each and everyone, one of the longest ever made by a victor.

Like the majority of Irish folk, Padraig has kissed The Blarney Stone !

Hoping you will be able to make it to Turnberry next year.

Sincerely yours,

Peter Hughes

Rocco Mediate: Gentleman, Scholar, & Judge of good liqueur

Peter Hughes — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:08:56 -0400

Throughout the years many fine golfers from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean have visited the United Kingdom, too many to list them all individually.

The latest is Rocco Mediate, who is not only a very fine player, but also a most pleasing individual in every true meaning of the word.

His reception on the 18th green at the conclusion of the second round of The Open Championship was well merited, and once more highlighted the esteem felt for visitors to these shores.

Good manners and accord appear to be passwords for all professional golfers from the new world, and Rocco proudly can take his place among them.

European competitors, with the exception of one or two, have also been blessed with the ability to communicate with the fans, who in turn respond in a like manner.

Another 36 holes must pass before the 2008 Open Champion is crowned on Sunday evening, and regardless who the victor may be, there is no doubt whatsoever Rocco Mediate has made a huge contribution to the event by his presence.

Hopefully he will return many more times.

In Ireland, there has long been an old saying to describe those who leave lasting impressions, it reads: You are a gentleman, a scholar and a judge of good liqueur.

Rocco you are most welcome to the club!

Golf's Greatest 20 Postwar Open Players

Peter Hughes — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:40:45 -0400

Marking the 2008 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, Patrick Kidd of The Times listed those who competed in the tournament in order of their prowess since 1946 to present.

The greatest American players refer to the championship as "The Open," so who am I to disagree with them.

Kidd's first 20, using a weighted system according to their finishing position in the championship brought the following results:

1. Jack Nicklaus (1115 pts)

2. Peter Thomson (975)

3. Tom Watson (675)

4. Nick Faldo (675)

5. Bobby Locke (630)

6. Roberto De Vicenzo (575)

7. Gary Player (550)

8. Ernie Els (545)

9. Severiano Ballesteros (475)

10. Lee Trevino (465)

11. Greg Norman (465)

12. Tiger Woods (440)

13. Bernhard Langer (440)

14. Arnold Palmer (395)

15. Christy O'Connor Sr. (395)

16. Bob Charles (390)

17. Dai Rees (385)

18. Fred Daly (355)

19. Kel Nagle (354)

20. Flory van Donck (330)

With Tiger absent this year, only two can improve their positions—Tom Watson, Greg Norman and Ernie Els. However, hopefully Tiger still has many more years left to climb the ladder.

Paul Azinger Invites Tiger Woods to Be Vice-Captain for Ryder Cup

Peter Hughes — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 21:15:14 -0400

Paul Azinger deserves high praise for his thoughtfullness to invite Tiger Woods to act as vice-captain of the US Ryder Cup team later this year.

It shows his mindset and determination to regain the trophy, and he augurs well for that to happen. He certainly intends "to throw down the gauntlet" to Nick Faldo, who already had one nominated vice-captain (Paul McGinley) turn down the opportunity, while Jose Maria Olazabal is doubtful to carry out the function due to injury.

Tiger has declined the offer probably due to his recovery program, which hopefully will see him back on the fairways next year.

Many, no doubt, will read other reasons into his response and the golfing scribes will go to town analyzing them for months to come.

In the meantime, Tiger Woods has clearly stated he will be rooting all the way for Paul Azinger and his team.

His sentiments will not be reciprocated in Europe, which will be heading towards Valhalla, full of determination to retain Sam Ryder's Trophy.

It will be a tremendous battle. Good luck to both teams.

1971: A Year Never to be Forgotten

Peter Hughes — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:40 -0400

The Open Championship, sometimes called, The British Open, simply due to it's history, is known on this side of the Atlantic by it's singular form, gives memories to last a life time.

Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, have made their contributions to the folklore associated with the championship, but many other players from the U.S. have played important roles in it's legacy.

1971, epitomizes the customs, beliefs and popularity of the event.

Royal Troon was the venue, the weather, and typical for the West coast of Scotland during July— windy and wet for the first three days, and abating somewhat for the final stages.

All the big names from every quarter of the globe were in contention, plus all living members who had their names inscribed on the trophy.

Among them was a 29-year-old Massillion, Ohio native, who had lived in the shadow of "The Golden Bear" for most of his career and up to that time had been unsuccessful in his quest for major honors.

The Open Championship in 1971 changed his life completely.

Tom Weiskoph, with rounds of 68,68,71 & 70, for a total of 276, finished three shots ahead of Neil Coles and Johnny Miller who finished joint second, with Jack Nicklaus fourth on 280.

A trio of former winners playing together provided the icing on the cake of a memorable championship.

71-year-old Gene Sarazen was partnered with Fred Daly, who won in 1947 and the inimitable Max Faulkner, victor in 1951.

During the first round, Gene Sarazen holed-in-one using a fifth iron at the eighth, and the reaction of his two partners on the tee was pure ecstasy; both completed an Irish Jig with Gene joining their festivities.

The following day at the same hole, he celebrated his 50th anniversary in The Open, by holing his bunker shot for a birdie two.

This great American golfer, sadly was never invited to captain a US Ryder Cup team, an honor, which he would have richly deserved, however he left an abiding memory at Royal Troon.

The luck of the Irish ?

Peter Hughes — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 21:11:07 -0400

Lady Luck certainly did not smile on the seven Irish aspirants, who attempted to qualify for The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale earlier this month.

On a beautiful summer day over two rounds on the old and new courses at Sunningdale, the entire Irish contingent (Darren Clarke, Paul McGinley, Rory McIlroy, Peter Lawrie, Gary Murphy, Michael Hoey and Colm Moriarty) finished well down the field.

Darren Clarke, who in 1997 at Troon had the title within his grasp, ruined his chance with a huge slice from the 14th tee allowing Justin Leonard to take the "auld claret jug" back to America. His presence will be missed at Birkdale.

The same goes for Paul McGinley, his great friend from their Ryder Cup exploits.

Rory McIlroy, leading amateur last year and classed as a young lion has found it most difficult to adjust to life as a professional, which begs the question: Was he encouraged to so do, much too early ?

Padraig Harrington and Grahame McDowell, must carry the fortunes of Ireland on their shoulders and Birkdale will be a sadder place, lacking a full Irish contingent.

Two other notable absentees will be Jose Maria Olazabal, twice winner of The Masters and presently crippled with acute rheumatism, along with another Ryder Cup colleague, Thomas Bjorn, who failed to finish yesterday due to a bad shoulder injury.

Golf, at times, can be very cruel!

Bobby Locke Marked the Start for South African Golf Greats

Peter Hughes — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:33:22 -0400

The advent of Bobby Locke during the immediate postwar years brings fond memories to those who had the privilege of watching him play in the UK and the United States. He was the forerunner in scores for South Africans who followed to grace the fairways of both countries.

No one will ever forget a young man, aged 22, from Johannesburg who arrived in the UK in 1957 and today is still playing competitive golf. Gary Player is a true legend in his own lifetime.

In alphabetical order a host of superb players and sportsmen have contributed much to golf throughout the world. Included are: Hugh Baiocchi, Bobby Cole, Ernie Els, David Frost, Cobie Le-Grange, Dale Hayes, Harold Henning, Denis Hutchinson, Trevor Immelman, and Richard Sterne.

They all left behind cherished thoughts with players and spectators alike. Long may their successors continue this heritage.

PGA Tour: Retief Goosen Must Make Public Apology to Tiger Woods

Peter Hughes — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:53:03 -0400

It is immaterial what motivated Retief Goosen to claim Tiger Woods was malingering while winning the US Open. The facts are: Goosen did make claims to the media.

They may have been taken out of context. They may have been jocular. Or, they could have been a stupid mistake on the part of the South Africian.

Nevertheless, Goosen's remarks were completely and utterly wrong—and must be condemned.

If the situation had been reversed, would Tiger Woods have reacted in a similar manner?

Prior to this weekend, Goosen has always been a person of decorum—as indeed have been most touring professionals. Hence, the publicity his allegations received.

He has been welcomed on the US Tour, but it remains to be seen if his popularity will continue or will he stand alongside another European "Mr Grumpy" and be judged accordingly ?

Retief Goosen has made a cardinal error, and in so doing must make a public and unequivocal apology to Tiger Woods. Should he fail to so do, the USPGA would be fully justified in withdrawing his playing rights.

Tiger Woods: What Today's Greatest Golfer Has in Common with Ben Hogan

Peter Hughes — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:02:55 -0400

Tiger Woods has it, Ben Hogan had it, and both attained legendary status with it.

In simple terms, it is the ability to overcome pain regardless of the circumstances.

Tiger's achievement at Torrey Pines will go down as absolutely superb, considering he had not played 18 holes since competing in The Masters last April.

Some doubts are being expressed about the great man competing at Royal Birkdale next month in the British Open—however, it would be a brave man who would wager against this happening.

Tiger Woods is simply a phenomenon.

He is a true successor to another great American golfer, who also became a legend during his lifetime.

Ben Hogan, the Texan, stunned the world by emerging victorious in the US Open 16 months after suffering horrific injuries in a car crash.

Hogan was travelling away from a tournament in Phoenix to return to his home in Fort Worth when through the morning fog, a Greyhound bus smashed into the side of his car and Hogan's first action was to throw him self across the lap of his wife, Valerie, taking the full brunt of the collision and, it is generally accepted, saving her life.

Hogan sustained a double fracture of the pelvis, a broken collar bone, broken ribs, a mangled ankle, a ruptured bladder, a blood clot to the right lung, plus multiple cuts and bruises.

The following day, the Associated Press issued his obituary to newspapers throughout the land.

Surgeons predicted Hogan would never walk again.

11 months after the accident, with his legs freshly bandaged every day, the Texan lost in a play-off to Sam Snead for the Los Angeles Open.

In 1950 he won the US Open by finishing four shots ahead of Lloyd Mangrum in another play-off.

In 1951 he had his name again on the US Open trophy, two years later repeating the feat and with it the Masters, plus the British Open at Carnoustie, where the Scots awarded him with the accolade of "The Wee Ice Mon"

Hogan and Woods have something many would give their eye teeth to obtain.

Men's Golf: Will There Ever Be Another Triumvirate?

Peter Hughes — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:58:49 -0400

Arnold Palmer was the founding member of the last Triumvirate in golf. For over a decade alongside Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus, the trio dominated the game.

The word goes back to Roman times and means an association of three men sharing supreme power. It was introduced to golf around the 1870s to describe the influence of three great players of the era.

Harry Vardon, John Henry Taylor and James Braid, between them, won 16 British and one United States Open Championships, besides many other trophies. The former introduced "The Vardon Grip," still used by a majority of players today.

They were followed in the early part of the next century by Walter Hagen, Bobby Jones and Gene Sarazen, who also had their names inscribed on eight British and seven U.S. Open titles.

Walter Hagen claimed never to aspire to be a millionaire, but he loved to live like one. He preached that we all should take time to smell the roses.

Bobby Jones was the greatest amateur ever to grace the sport. Gene Sarazen played in The British Open at Troon, aged 71, holing-in-one at The Postage Stamp eighth. On the following day, he holed from the bunker for a birdie at the same hole.

The immediate pre-war years saw the advent of Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson and Sam Snead, who between them asked and gave no quarter as they battled for domination.

Ben Hogan won four U.S. Opens and in spite of horrific injuries in a car accident, made his way to Troon to win The British Open in 1953. Sam Snead had many reservations in making the trip to St Andrews in 1946, nevertheless, he returned home with "The Auld Claret Jug."

Byron Nelson had only one U.S. Open to his name, but he holds the distinction of returning 19 consecutive rounds in tournament golf below 70.

The United Kingdom has also produced modern Triumvirates with a Scot, Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam from Wales and an Englishman, Nick Faldo, all achieving success worldwide.

Proudly, Ireland can also claim fame with Fred Daly, Harry Bradshaw and Christy O'Connor Sr. to the fore.

The question is: Has the domination of Tiger Woods during the recent past made a Triumvirate obsolete for the present?

Open Mic: Disappointments and Achievements in Golf

Peter Hughes — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 21:51:51 -0400

The Royal & Ancient game of golf has produced a fair share of highs and lows over the years.

In 2007 on the 18th green at Carnoustie, elation and despair combined to provide a young Irishman and a young Spaniard with experiences that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

Padraig Harrington "clawed" his way out of the depths of the Barry Burn to become the first Irishman since Fred Daly in 1947 to win The Open Championship.

Sergio Garcia's hopes of following in the footsteps of his illustrious fellow countryman, Seve Ballesteros, by having his name inscribed on "The Auld Claret Jug" were dashed to smithereens by the inexplicable miss of an 18-inch putt.

Is there any other sport that can provide such emotion on a small stage?

Other disappointments also abound in golf.

Ian Baker-Finch, an Australian, won The Open in 1991 at Royal Birkdale and for unknown reasons, his game completely disintegrated. This resulted in an extremely affable man leaving the professional scene.

On the other hand, John Daly, the Open Champion at St. Andrews in 1995, with the world at his feet, let his career "go up in smoke" with a lifestyle uniquely his own.

Many other sports have similar occurrences.

Golf also provides records that probably will never be surpassed.

Gary Player became a professional in 1953. Today at age 73, he is still walking the fairways in competitive golf and capable of shooting his age at the drop of a putt.

Men's Golf: Vijay "Sings" Alongside Peter Aliss

Peter Hughes — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 21:25:44 -0400

During the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, the doyen of of British golf, Peter Alliss, made some caustic remarks about the abilities of young professionals to adapt their games to changing weather and course conditions.

Immediately, he was castigated by Nick Dougherty for being an old "fuddy-duddy," sitting in an ivory tower and living in the world of yesterday.

To his great credit, Alliss mildly responded and calmly pointed out the reasons for his words.

Yes, Peter Alliss is certainly no spring chicken and perhaps he no longer treads the fairways. Subsequently, he may be unable to judge properly the trials and tribulations in the modern game.

However, Viyay Singh is certainly among the top ten in the world today and his thoughts must be worthy of cognisance. He has no doubts whatsoever, younger players, in particular those from the UK lack the desire to practise simply because things are handed to them on a plate.

From the moment of entering professional golf, amateurs with any sort of promise are pampered by sponsorship deals providing not only money but everything necessary to play the game.

Even making the cut in tournament play provides enough cash to have a comfortable living, so why practise for hours on end.

As Vijay correctly says, to reach the top and to stay there demands hours upon hours of solid hard work on the practise ground.

He practises what he preaches and he has followed in the footsteps of Hogan, Player, Nicklaus and Palmer, plus hundreds of others who have reached the top in golf.

The UK's "young lions" would do well to take note!