December 8, 2009
Check Back in 2010
Swing Thoughts will be back in full force in 2010 to cover all the exciting MGA action!
September 30, 2009
Bogies Blowing In The Wind
-Billy Condon
The wind continues to pick up out at the Creek and mixed with the cool conditions, the players are finding scoring difficult. Speaking with the club's professional Sean Farren, who qualified for this year's U.S. Open at Bethpage said that it is windier and cooler than what can be expected this time of year. When you combine the conditions with the quick greens, it provides a great test of golf for the competitors.
The wind continues to pick up out at the Creek and mixed with the cool conditions, the players are finding scoring difficult. Speaking with the club's professional Sean Farren, who qualified for this year's U.S. Open at Bethpage said that it is windier and cooler than what can be expected this time of year. When you combine the conditions with the quick greens, it provides a great test of golf for the competitors.
Rohlf in Similar Position
-Billy Condon
In last year's Mid-Am, Greg Rohlf found himself four shots out of the lead going into the final round. After a solid round, Rohlf played the waiting game while the rest of the field fell back and he wound up in a four-man playoff that he eventually won.
Today, Rohlf again entered the final round four-shots back, and on another cool and windy day that is reminiscent of that final round at Bayonne, Rohlf looks to become the first player in the championship's young history to have his name etched into the Westmoreland Cup for the second time.
It should also be noted that Rohlf was out of commission for a large portion of the 2009 season due to injury. However, Rohlf is now healthy and finds himself right in the mix.
In last year's Mid-Am, Greg Rohlf found himself four shots out of the lead going into the final round. After a solid round, Rohlf played the waiting game while the rest of the field fell back and he wound up in a four-man playoff that he eventually won.
Today, Rohlf again entered the final round four-shots back, and on another cool and windy day that is reminiscent of that final round at Bayonne, Rohlf looks to become the first player in the championship's young history to have his name etched into the Westmoreland Cup for the second time.
It should also be noted that Rohlf was out of commission for a large portion of the 2009 season due to injury. However, Rohlf is now healthy and finds himself right in the mix.
Vannelli Clicks at Creek
-Billy Condon
At the 2005 Met Amateur held at the Creek, Ron Vannelli topped Patrick Pierson in 38 holes to become the oldest winner of the championship. In yesterday's first round, Vannelli and Pierson were back at it, playing in the same group as Pierson shot 77 and Vannelli came in with a 73 and stands two-shots back of the leaders.
Follow all the live scoring at www.mgagolf.org.
At the 2005 Met Amateur held at the Creek, Ron Vannelli topped Patrick Pierson in 38 holes to become the oldest winner of the championship. In yesterday's first round, Vannelli and Pierson were back at it, playing in the same group as Pierson shot 77 and Vannelli came in with a 73 and stands two-shots back of the leaders.
Follow all the live scoring at www.mgagolf.org.
September 29, 2009
Wind Picking Up at Creek
-Billy Condon
With the morning wave of players all on the course for the 3rd MGA Mid-Am, scores have been wide-ranging thus far. A highlight has been Jim Graham making the turn at 1-under with a few other players close behind.
Although sunny, the wind is definitely testing the competitors. Gusting just under 20 mph, the wind speed is only going to pick up as the day goes as there is also a chance of rain this afternoon.
With the morning wave of players all on the course for the 3rd MGA Mid-Am, scores have been wide-ranging thus far. A highlight has been Jim Graham making the turn at 1-under with a few other players close behind.
Although sunny, the wind is definitely testing the competitors. Gusting just under 20 mph, the wind speed is only going to pick up as the day goes as there is also a chance of rain this afternoon.
September 2, 2009
Gibstein Fires First-Round 70, Graham has 72
Amateur Ed Gibstein of Engineers, the 1994 Ike champ, is making the most of his first year of eligibility at the MGA Senior Open. He carded a first-round, even-par 70, including a one-under 34 on the back nine. Gibstein had a rough start to his round with a bogey at the second hole and a double bogey at the par-three third hole, but recovered nicely with birdies at the fourth, fifth and seventh. He's currently the low amateur in the clubhouse.
Last year's Senior Open low amateur, Jim Graham of Winged Foot, just signed his card and turned in a first-round 72. Graham, who started on the 10th hole, was one-under after nine, but three bogeys on the back dropped him a few shots.
Check back for more updates as the first round of the MGA Senior Open continues.
Last year's Senior Open low amateur, Jim Graham of Winged Foot, just signed his card and turned in a first-round 72. Graham, who started on the 10th hole, was one-under after nine, but three bogeys on the back dropped him a few shots.
Check back for more updates as the first round of the MGA Senior Open continues.
August 31, 2009
About Am Time?
-Billy Condon
In the past 12 MGA Senior Open's, never has an amateur been victorious. On two separate occasions an amateur has been runner-up (Ron Vannelli in 2005 and Richard Jung in 2007). Vannelli is in the field this year, and there are more amateurs competing (91) than professionals (85). This year looks better than any for an amateur to hoist the silver plate on Thursday afternoon.
In the past 12 MGA Senior Open's, never has an amateur been victorious. On two separate occasions an amateur has been runner-up (Ron Vannelli in 2005 and Richard Jung in 2007). Vannelli is in the field this year, and there are more amateurs competing (91) than professionals (85). This year looks better than any for an amateur to hoist the silver plate on Thursday afternoon.
Senior Open Week
-Billy Condon
Fresh off a runner-up finish at the Met Open, Jerry Courville Jr. looks to Long Island for his next chance at an MGA championship. Courville joins other local professionals as well as amateurs at the 13th MGA Senior Open, set to be played at The Woodmere Club, Wednesday & Thursday, September 2 & 3. Included in the mix are past Senior Open winners Bobby Heins, Darrell Kestner, as well as amateurs Ed Gibstein and Jay Blumenfeld.
Fresh off a runner-up finish at the Met Open, Jerry Courville Jr. looks to Long Island for his next chance at an MGA championship. Courville joins other local professionals as well as amateurs at the 13th MGA Senior Open, set to be played at The Woodmere Club, Wednesday & Thursday, September 2 & 3. Included in the mix are past Senior Open winners Bobby Heins, Darrell Kestner, as well as amateurs Ed Gibstein and Jay Blumenfeld.
August 27, 2009
Giuliani Holds on to Win Met Open
-Billy Condon
Andrew Giuliani is your 2009 Met Open champion. Giuliani fended off Brett Jones over the last few holes to claim victory. His first victory as a professional, Giuliani sealed the deal with a tap-in bogey on the 18th hole followed by big hugs with his caddie and mother.
Andrew Giuliani is your 2009 Met Open champion. Giuliani fended off Brett Jones over the last few holes to claim victory. His first victory as a professional, Giuliani sealed the deal with a tap-in bogey on the 18th hole followed by big hugs with his caddie and mother.
Giuliani Holds One Shot Lead
-Billy Condon
It's coming down to the wire and Andrew Giuliani holds a one shot lead over Jerry Courville Jr. and Brett Jones. Andrew Svoboda holds the clubhouse lead at 1-under while Jones and Courville try to chase down Giuliani.
It's coming down to the wire and Andrew Giuliani holds a one shot lead over Jerry Courville Jr. and Brett Jones. Andrew Svoboda holds the clubhouse lead at 1-under while Jones and Courville try to chase down Giuliani.
Leaders Separating Themselves From Rest of Field
-Billy Condon
17-year-old Sam Bernstein continues to impress the fans out here as he remains towards the top of the leaderboard. Sean Farren and Andrew Giuliani are at 3-under at the top with three other players at 2-under. There is a gap between the next set of competitors as these five players are fighting for position as they make the turn.
17-year-old Sam Bernstein continues to impress the fans out here as he remains towards the top of the leaderboard. Sean Farren and Andrew Giuliani are at 3-under at the top with three other players at 2-under. There is a gap between the next set of competitors as these five players are fighting for position as they make the turn.
Casalino Off to Hot Start
-Billy Condon
Anthony Casalino is in the groove as he is 3-under through his first five holes. Casalino has birdies on the first, second, and fifth holes. Is it the clothes?
Anthony Casalino is in the groove as he is 3-under through his first five holes. Casalino has birdies on the first, second, and fifth holes. Is it the clothes?
Final Day Kicks Off at Met Open in Style
-Billy Condon
The third and final day of the Met Open championship has begun at Ridgewood Country Club. On a much cooler day than the previous two, but with the sun starting to shine, the players are anxious to put their skills to the test for 18 more holes. The course is looking to play a little softer than yesterday but the setup will challenge the field of 62. On the outside, players look cool and collected, but you can be sure that butterflies will be stirring once they step onto the first tee.
Speaking with 17-year-old amateur Sam Bernstein, who is one shot behind leader Andrew Giuliani, Bernstein confirmed with me that he had his Thursday outfit planned well in advance. "Tiger wears red, Phil wears black, Sam wears orange," the eager teenager boasted. But don't be fooled, it's not a rookie move to focus on clothing, well-garbed Anthony Casalino puts preparation into his duds just as much as anyone else, as does Adam Fuchs. Catching up with Fuchs on the putting green, he remarked "this outfit has been planned out for the last two weeks, black pants and black shoes are my go-to on the final day." Fuchs is evidently a firm believe in the "look good play good" mentality.
The third and final day of the Met Open championship has begun at Ridgewood Country Club. On a much cooler day than the previous two, but with the sun starting to shine, the players are anxious to put their skills to the test for 18 more holes. The course is looking to play a little softer than yesterday but the setup will challenge the field of 62. On the outside, players look cool and collected, but you can be sure that butterflies will be stirring once they step onto the first tee.
Speaking with 17-year-old amateur Sam Bernstein, who is one shot behind leader Andrew Giuliani, Bernstein confirmed with me that he had his Thursday outfit planned well in advance. "Tiger wears red, Phil wears black, Sam wears orange," the eager teenager boasted. But don't be fooled, it's not a rookie move to focus on clothing, well-garbed Anthony Casalino puts preparation into his duds just as much as anyone else, as does Adam Fuchs. Catching up with Fuchs on the putting green, he remarked "this outfit has been planned out for the last two weeks, black pants and black shoes are my go-to on the final day." Fuchs is evidently a firm believe in the "look good play good" mentality.
August 26, 2009
Tough Conditions Stump Players
-Billy Condon
Compared to yesterday, where top players shot even par or better, today has been a different story. So far, only three players have played their second round under par with a few others making the turn under par who are still on the course. The soft conditions that the players experienced yesterday have changed as the heat and wind have hardened the playing conditions causing knee-knocking putts from any distance.
One of the notable rounds today belongs to Jerry Courville Jr., who shot two-under par and has a two-round total of 142. Brett Jones shot a 70 today and currently holds the lead along with Sam Bernstein at 140. Still on the course and going strong is Andrew Giuliani, who was one under on his front nine this afternoon and is four under par for the championship. Also in the mix is Frank Bensel, who made the turn at three under par.
Compared to yesterday, where top players shot even par or better, today has been a different story. So far, only three players have played their second round under par with a few others making the turn under par who are still on the course. The soft conditions that the players experienced yesterday have changed as the heat and wind have hardened the playing conditions causing knee-knocking putts from any distance.
One of the notable rounds today belongs to Jerry Courville Jr., who shot two-under par and has a two-round total of 142. Brett Jones shot a 70 today and currently holds the lead along with Sam Bernstein at 140. Still on the course and going strong is Andrew Giuliani, who was one under on his front nine this afternoon and is four under par for the championship. Also in the mix is Frank Bensel, who made the turn at three under par.
More Unique Bags
-Billy Condon
Making more rounds to the range and putting green while the afternoon batch of players begin to warm up, a few more discoveries had been made. For one, a good amount of players do not incorporate superstitions into their golf game, but they do incorporate style. Players match headcovers to their bags, and one major fashion statement is the emergence of the old school puff-ball headcover. Players such as Scott Paris and Michael Quagliano all sport these heacovers. Quagliano also uses putter covers on his hybrids, however the reason for this "is a secret."
One player who is superstitious is Casey Calmi. The recent St. Johns graduate said that he has more superstitions than I would care to know, but one that he did divulge was that the quarter he uses to mark his ball has to always be heads up.
The college trend continues as Muhlenberg alum Rob Lobel sports the school's mule mascot. Zach Oyer, also of Muhlenberg also shows off both the Muhlenberg team bag and the mule headcover. David Rahal has the Lafayette leopard on his bag.
Andrew Giuliani has a New York Giants headcover as well as a USA putter cover.
Add a Little Flavor
-Billy CondonGood morning from day two of the Met Open. It is another spectacular day with temperatures again expected to climb but with light breezes expected.
It is always fun to talk to the players about something other than how they hit the ball, so today I will be discussing lucky charms with some of the competitors. No, not the marshmallow cereal, but unique objects that they carry with them for luck, sentiment, or just because it looks cool.
This morning on the range I caught up with David Mann who has the best headcover I have seen this week - The Hulk.
Other players choose to display their college colors on their bag. Paul Park uses his red Indiana University bag equipped with IU headcovers. Jeff Stebbins has his bag from his days at UCONN, with of course, Jonathan the Husky on his driver. Colin Amaral boasts University of Georgia headcovers.
Tom Sutter, who has his son carrying his bag this week, wears a visor with his initials across the back.
Be sure to check back throughout the day for continued updates and the complete slideshow on the MGA's Facebook page where you can become a fan of the MGA...click here:
August 25, 2009
Met Open Afterthoughts
By Billy Condon
Play at the first day of the 94th Met Open has come to an end and the limelight is on 17-year-old Sam Bernstein. Bernstein is arguably the youngest player to hold the overnight lead at the Met Open, and he holds a one-shot lead over Andrew Giuliani and Bob Rittberger.
From the little that I saw of Bernstein's play, he appeared poised and confident, although he did show some emotion after narrowly missing his birdie putt on the 291-yard par-4 fifth hole. As many professionals and amateurs wore the logos of their home clubs, Bernstein chose to wear a shirt from the Carter Cup, subtly reinforcing his youth as players cannot be over 18 years of age in that event. Bernstein is in a field against not only past Met Open champions, but competitors from past U.S. Opens, PGA Championships and Masters.
As far as the championship course, the players could not express more compliments. Although difficult, the players felt the conditions were fantastic and that to score well, you have to play well - as any championship golf course should be. The hardest hole on the course proved to be the ninth, a par four that had a scoring average of 4.76, looking more like the scoring average of a par 5. Speaking of five-pars, none of the three on the course had a scoring average below par. The easiest hole on the course proved to be the fifth, with a scoring average just under par at 3.97.
With one day of play under their belts and another sunny day expected for tomorrow, one can expect low scores as moving day at the Met Open separates the field.
Play at the first day of the 94th Met Open has come to an end and the limelight is on 17-year-old Sam Bernstein. Bernstein is arguably the youngest player to hold the overnight lead at the Met Open, and he holds a one-shot lead over Andrew Giuliani and Bob Rittberger.
From the little that I saw of Bernstein's play, he appeared poised and confident, although he did show some emotion after narrowly missing his birdie putt on the 291-yard par-4 fifth hole. As many professionals and amateurs wore the logos of their home clubs, Bernstein chose to wear a shirt from the Carter Cup, subtly reinforcing his youth as players cannot be over 18 years of age in that event. Bernstein is in a field against not only past Met Open champions, but competitors from past U.S. Opens, PGA Championships and Masters.
As far as the championship course, the players could not express more compliments. Although difficult, the players felt the conditions were fantastic and that to score well, you have to play well - as any championship golf course should be. The hardest hole on the course proved to be the ninth, a par four that had a scoring average of 4.76, looking more like the scoring average of a par 5. Speaking of five-pars, none of the three on the course had a scoring average below par. The easiest hole on the course proved to be the fifth, with a scoring average just under par at 3.97.
With one day of play under their belts and another sunny day expected for tomorrow, one can expect low scores as moving day at the Met Open separates the field.
17-year-old Shocks Field with 67
-Billy Condon
17-year-old Sam Bernstein, an amateur from Riverdale, N.Y., fired an opening round 67, one stroke better than Andrew Giuliani, who held the clubhouse lead for much of the day. Bernstein, who finished tied for 12th at the 2009 Carter Cup led the way with 5 birdies and only one bogey. In a field full of experienced veteran professionals and amateurs, it was Bernstein, the young gun, who came away with the early advantage after the first day of the Met Open. Stay tuned to see if Bernstein's 67 holds up as the overnight clubhouse lead as there are still a few more groups left on the course.
17-year-old Sam Bernstein, an amateur from Riverdale, N.Y., fired an opening round 67, one stroke better than Andrew Giuliani, who held the clubhouse lead for much of the day. Bernstein, who finished tied for 12th at the 2009 Carter Cup led the way with 5 birdies and only one bogey. In a field full of experienced veteran professionals and amateurs, it was Bernstein, the young gun, who came away with the early advantage after the first day of the Met Open. Stay tuned to see if Bernstein's 67 holds up as the overnight clubhouse lead as there are still a few more groups left on the course.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Knowledge is power - as was the case with Jeff Stebbins as he came to the fifth. Stebbins, who was a member at Ridgewood until 2005, hit his approach to the right side of the fairway and proceeded to nicely find the green on his approach, which garnered applause from his familial fan base. Stebbins poured in the birdie putt and gave a confident fist pump.
Knowledge is power - as was the case with Jeff Stebbins as he came to the fifth. Stebbins, who was a member at Ridgewood until 2005, hit his approach to the right side of the fairway and proceeded to nicely find the green on his approach, which garnered applause from his familial fan base. Stebbins poured in the birdie putt and gave a confident fist pump.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
After a drive in the fairway, Sean Kelly's approach hit once and spun back across the green, nearly hitting the flagstick on its way. Kelly went on to make the birdie putt from off the green.
After a drive in the fairway, Sean Kelly's approach hit once and spun back across the green, nearly hitting the flagstick on its way. Kelly went on to make the birdie putt from off the green.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Tom Sutter added his name to the short list of players to make a putt outside of ten feet on the fifth. Sutter hit his approach from the rough beyond the cup but made the 13-foot birdie.
It also marked Sutter's third birdie in a row.
Tom Sutter added his name to the short list of players to make a putt outside of ten feet on the fifth. Sutter hit his approach from the rough beyond the cup but made the 13-foot birdie.
It also marked Sutter's third birdie in a row.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
The group of Sam Bernstein, Joseph Chalmers, and Jeffrey Cowell also all had great approach shots into the green. No player hit their approach outside of ten feet, however, none of them were able to capitalize on their birdie opportunity, all four made par.
The group of Sam Bernstein, Joseph Chalmers, and Jeffrey Cowell also all had great approach shots into the green. No player hit their approach outside of ten feet, however, none of them were able to capitalize on their birdie opportunity, all four made par.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
The Saladino, Dicciani, and Meehan group all played the fifth well. After the trio hit solid tee shots that found the fairway, they all hit their approaches up onto the green. Dicciani missed his comeback birdie putt that was a tricky slider, but Saladino confidently rolled in his birdie. Meehan, who hit his approach the closest of the three also poured in his birdie putt.
The Saladino, Dicciani, and Meehan group all played the fifth well. After the trio hit solid tee shots that found the fairway, they all hit their approaches up onto the green. Dicciani missed his comeback birdie putt that was a tricky slider, but Saladino confidently rolled in his birdie. Meehan, who hit his approach the closest of the three also poured in his birdie putt.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Speaking of the intimidating uphill approach, it can be hypothesized that the players do not realize that at the top of the hill, there is still another 3-8 yards onto the green, depending on the angle they take. Players may think they have found success when their ball just clears the apex of the ridge, but face a disappointing reality when they find their ball in the rough.
And the numbers don't lie. After 36 players played this hole in the morning, the scoring average was approximately 3.97 and was playing as the easiest hole on the course. After 96 players, it has remained as the easiest hole statistically, but the scoring average has risen to 4.011, barely over par. There have been some bogeys and double bogeys that are unaccounted for as well, but some great birdies as well.
Speaking of the intimidating uphill approach, it can be hypothesized that the players do not realize that at the top of the hill, there is still another 3-8 yards onto the green, depending on the angle they take. Players may think they have found success when their ball just clears the apex of the ridge, but face a disappointing reality when they find their ball in the rough.
And the numbers don't lie. After 36 players played this hole in the morning, the scoring average was approximately 3.97 and was playing as the easiest hole on the course. After 96 players, it has remained as the easiest hole statistically, but the scoring average has risen to 4.011, barely over par. There have been some bogeys and double bogeys that are unaccounted for as well, but some great birdies as well.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Rahal has not been the only player to come up well short with their second shot as multiple others have succumbed to the intimidating uphill approach. Just as Rahal, these players have, on more than a few occasions, overcome the adversity of facing bogey and poured in their par-saving putts.
As predicted, this hole continues to play as both a momentum builder and shaker. Players with a confident putting stroke have found success while those questioning the slick putts have faltered.
Rahal has not been the only player to come up well short with their second shot as multiple others have succumbed to the intimidating uphill approach. Just as Rahal, these players have, on more than a few occasions, overcome the adversity of facing bogey and poured in their par-saving putts.
As predicted, this hole continues to play as both a momentum builder and shaker. Players with a confident putting stroke have found success while those questioning the slick putts have faltered.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
David Rahal, the 2008 club champion at Ridgewood had quite the showing on the fifth. After laying up in the fairway, Rahal chunked his second shot into the bunker in front of the green. Needing to get up-and-down for par, Rahal decided to forgo putting completely by dunking his bunker shot for birdie. Rahal made the turn at even par.
David Rahal, the 2008 club champion at Ridgewood had quite the showing on the fifth. After laying up in the fairway, Rahal chunked his second shot into the bunker in front of the green. Needing to get up-and-down for par, Rahal decided to forgo putting completely by dunking his bunker shot for birdie. Rahal made the turn at even par.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Players this afternoon have still tried to get up to the green from the tee but no one has landed on the top level. The last player to attempt a shot at glory was John Stoltz who pulled his shot short and left. Stoltz hit a nice chip onto the green but missed his birdie putt.
From the groups I have seen, there has only been a handful of putts made outside of 6-7 feet with two of those belonging to Gaffney and Hegarty.
Players this afternoon have still tried to get up to the green from the tee but no one has landed on the top level. The last player to attempt a shot at glory was John Stoltz who pulled his shot short and left. Stoltz hit a nice chip onto the green but missed his birdie putt.
From the groups I have seen, there has only been a handful of putts made outside of 6-7 feet with two of those belonging to Gaffney and Hegarty.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Since Tim Hegarty made his 8-foot putt from above the hole, no one made a decent length putt from that location - until Brian Gaffney. Gaffney sank a 12-foot curler for birdie to the applause of the gallery that has come out to walk the course.
Since Tim Hegarty made his 8-foot putt from above the hole, no one made a decent length putt from that location - until Brian Gaffney. Gaffney sank a 12-foot curler for birdie to the applause of the gallery that has come out to walk the course.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
And we're back with the afternoon wave of competitors.
The groups that have been coming through have been making a barrage of pars. Whether they get on the green in regulation or have to chip on, the players are relying on their short game to make their four. The breeze is more calm than it was in the morning and players continue to find themselves below the hole and off the green.
After talking to a few of the players who have already finished, they have had a common response that in order to score, you must put the ball over the hole and have it spin back. Unfortunately, on these greens, the balls are spinning back 20-30 feet in some cases.
And we're back with the afternoon wave of competitors.
The groups that have been coming through have been making a barrage of pars. Whether they get on the green in regulation or have to chip on, the players are relying on their short game to make their four. The breeze is more calm than it was in the morning and players continue to find themselves below the hole and off the green.
After talking to a few of the players who have already finished, they have had a common response that in order to score, you must put the ball over the hole and have it spin back. Unfortunately, on these greens, the balls are spinning back 20-30 feet in some cases.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Mike Paduano, who is playing his first two rounds with Mark McCormick and Greg Bisconti just told me how great the golf course is playing. "It's brutally hard, but fair. It's a great test," said Paduano. He went on to say that the only time you can relax over the ball is when you are inside of six inches - "unfortunately, you don't find yourself coming that close here."
Mike Paduano, who is playing his first two rounds with Mark McCormick and Greg Bisconti just told me how great the golf course is playing. "It's brutally hard, but fair. It's a great test," said Paduano. He went on to say that the only time you can relax over the ball is when you are inside of six inches - "unfortunately, you don't find yourself coming that close here."
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Greg Shuman just made an impressive birdie after driving the ball into the greenside bunker. Shuman hit his shot out of the bunker past the hole and the green fed the ball back to the hole to a foot for an easy tap-in birdie.
Greg Shuman just made an impressive birdie after driving the ball into the greenside bunker. Shuman hit his shot out of the bunker past the hole and the green fed the ball back to the hole to a foot for an easy tap-in birdie.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Players choosing to lay up do so to avoid a difficult and awkward second shot. However, a noticeable amount of players choosing to lay up here have been missing the fairway to the right off the tee. These flaring fades have put these players at an extreme disadvantage with their approach shots into the green.
Players choosing to lay up do so to avoid a difficult and awkward second shot. However, a noticeable amount of players choosing to lay up here have been missing the fairway to the right off the tee. These flaring fades have put these players at an extreme disadvantage with their approach shots into the green.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Ridgewood just fought back. After a good amount of birdies during the first half of the morning wave, the second group to come through who teed off on the back nine finished with a cumulative 14. With two players hitting their tee shots in the right rough 70 yards short and the third hitting driver into the rough right of the green. No player got on the green in regulation as the thick Ridgewood rough held up both hosels and hopes of birdie.
Ridgewood just fought back. After a good amount of birdies during the first half of the morning wave, the second group to come through who teed off on the back nine finished with a cumulative 14. With two players hitting their tee shots in the right rough 70 yards short and the third hitting driver into the rough right of the green. No player got on the green in regulation as the thick Ridgewood rough held up both hosels and hopes of birdie.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
The course and weather conditions cannot be considered less than ideal right now. It's warm, but there is a nice breeze. The prevailing wind here is directed right into the faces of the players on the fifth tee, although it should not be strong enough to influence shot choice.
With this hole especially, players find themselves laying up into an area that is becoming pock-marked with sandy divot mix. These spots are between 65 and 85 yards away from the hole.
Another observation is the type of shot the players want to have into the green. Having watched this hole at the Barclay's last year, it seems that the players playing today are choosing to lay up a little closer than the Tour pros, leaving them with half and three-quarter wedge shots into the green, and the majority of them coming down short of the hole. However, as mentioned earlier, the result has been more players spinning the ball off of the front of the green. By taking a more full approach, the Tour players were able to get their shots to come down over the hole, and the spin would zip the ball back to hole-high.
The course and weather conditions cannot be considered less than ideal right now. It's warm, but there is a nice breeze. The prevailing wind here is directed right into the faces of the players on the fifth tee, although it should not be strong enough to influence shot choice.
With this hole especially, players find themselves laying up into an area that is becoming pock-marked with sandy divot mix. These spots are between 65 and 85 yards away from the hole.
Another observation is the type of shot the players want to have into the green. Having watched this hole at the Barclay's last year, it seems that the players playing today are choosing to lay up a little closer than the Tour pros, leaving them with half and three-quarter wedge shots into the green, and the majority of them coming down short of the hole. However, as mentioned earlier, the result has been more players spinning the ball off of the front of the green. By taking a more full approach, the Tour players were able to get their shots to come down over the hole, and the spin would zip the ball back to hole-high.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Home-pro David Reasoner of Ridgewood went for the green off the tee and ended up in the greenside bunker to the right of the green. He faced the same bunker shot that Hunter Mahan dunked at the 2008 Barclays. Reasoner ended up making par on the hole.
Although more players have decided to hit iron off the tee than driver, the advantage is not necessarily paying off. With the front hole location, many players are finding themselves spinning the ball off the front of the green into the fringe, and sometimes the rough. Anthony Aruta found his approach shot come to rest in the rough just short of the green and wound up making bogey.
Home-pro David Reasoner of Ridgewood went for the green off the tee and ended up in the greenside bunker to the right of the green. He faced the same bunker shot that Hunter Mahan dunked at the 2008 Barclays. Reasoner ended up making par on the hole.
Although more players have decided to hit iron off the tee than driver, the advantage is not necessarily paying off. With the front hole location, many players are finding themselves spinning the ball off the front of the green into the fringe, and sometimes the rough. Anthony Aruta found his approach shot come to rest in the rough just short of the green and wound up making bogey.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
Making his professional debut this week, Michael Quagliano came to the fifth hole and left with a birdie. Choosing to lay up, Quagliano hit his approach to four feet and sank the slippery birdie putt. Also in Quagliano's group was Tim Hegarty, who also walked away with a birdie. Hegarty took a different approach to the hole as he took out driver and his tee shot landed just short of the green. Hegarty used the ridge behind the hole to his advantage as he threw the ball up and had the contour of the green feed the ball back, coming to rest at about 8 feet. Hegarty gave Quagliano a good read as he made his birdie putt.
Making his professional debut this week, Michael Quagliano came to the fifth hole and left with a birdie. Choosing to lay up, Quagliano hit his approach to four feet and sank the slippery birdie putt. Also in Quagliano's group was Tim Hegarty, who also walked away with a birdie. Hegarty took a different approach to the hole as he took out driver and his tee shot landed just short of the green. Hegarty used the ridge behind the hole to his advantage as he threw the ball up and had the contour of the green feed the ball back, coming to rest at about 8 feet. Hegarty gave Quagliano a good read as he made his birdie putt.
Met Open - Live From the Five and Dime Hole
-Billy Condon
I'm out here reporting live from the Five and Dime hole on this beautiful opening day of the 94th Met Open at Ridgewood Country Club. This hole plays as the fifth on the championship course layout and is a 291-yard par 4. Today, the hole is featuring a front hole location on the narrow, two-tiered green. Players have been choosing to lay-up thus far, using the ridge behind the hole as a backstop for their shots, allowing the ball to track back down to the hole.
(Five and Dime was coined by Byron Nelson as players only needed a five-iron and a 10-wedge to get to the green. 10-wedge is the equivalent of a pitching wedge).
I'm out here reporting live from the Five and Dime hole on this beautiful opening day of the 94th Met Open at Ridgewood Country Club. This hole plays as the fifth on the championship course layout and is a 291-yard par 4. Today, the hole is featuring a front hole location on the narrow, two-tiered green. Players have been choosing to lay-up thus far, using the ridge behind the hole as a backstop for their shots, allowing the ball to track back down to the hole.
(Five and Dime was coined by Byron Nelson as players only needed a five-iron and a 10-wedge to get to the green. 10-wedge is the equivalent of a pitching wedge).
August 7, 2009
The Kid's Got Game
Catching up with the Cameron Wilson and Colin Dolph match on the ninth hole, Wilson drained a curling 55-footer for birdie and to win the hole, putting him 2-up.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
Stepping to the tee on the par-three 17th hole and down two, Quagliano needs to knock his shot close - and does! However, Wilson answers yet again and his ball comes to rest inside of Quagliano's. Quagliano misses his birdie putt and concedes the hole, resulting in a first-round victory for Cameron Wilson.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
Quagliano found himself on the front of the green on the 16th hole while Wilson hit his approach long into the rough behind the green. Wilson chips and nearly sinks the shot. Quagliano needs to make his par putt - and he makes the four-foot tester.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
On 15, Quagliano ropes a drive down the middle of the fairway and Wilson follows by pulling his shot to the right under a tree. Wilson punches out down the fairway and eventually sinks a 12-footer for birdie. Quagliano answers again and makes his birdie putt.
Wilson hits his drive on the par-4 hole-high and Quagliano hits his approach to fifteen feet. Quagliano proceeds to pour in his birdie putt while Wilson misses his.
On the par-three 12th, Quagliano is just short of the green while Wilson flew the green. Quagliano chipped up and made par but Wilson made a spectacular up and down to halve the hole.
Billy Condon
Wilson hits his drive on the par-4 hole-high and Quagliano hits his approach to fifteen feet. Quagliano proceeds to pour in his birdie putt while Wilson misses his.
On the par-three 12th, Quagliano is just short of the green while Wilson flew the green. Quagliano chipped up and made par but Wilson made a spectacular up and down to halve the hole.
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
The par-four tenth hole proved to be a rewarding for Wilson, as he made a birdie four and moved to 3-up in the match.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
The players reach the par-four ninth hole, where Wilson sticks his approach shot. Quagliano, who was on in three, concedes the hole and goes 2-down. Quagliano, who was runner-up at the Met Amateur in 2003, has some ground to make up as the players move to the challenging back nine at Hackensack Golf Club.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
The players came to the 398-yard 7th hole all square, but it was Wilson who walked away with a 1-up lead. Quagliano was on in two, but an unfortunate three putt led to a bogey to Wilson's par. The players halved the par-five 8th hole and Wilson remains 1-up.
Billy Condon
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
Wilson hit his first fairway of the day at the par-four fifth hole, but Quagliano narrowly misses his birdie putt and Wilson concedes the hole. Both players are intensely focused and conversation has been at a minimum.
The players halve the par-three sixth hole after just missing a pair of makeable birdie putts. The match remains all square through six holes.
Billy Condon
The players halve the par-three sixth hole after just missing a pair of makeable birdie putts. The match remains all square through six holes.
Billy Condon
Live Blog from the Quagliano-Wilson Match
Sixteen players advanced to match play at the 107th Met Amateur Championship at Hackensack Golf Club in Oradell, N.J. Billy Condon of the MGA Communications staff is following the match between 2009 Carter Cup champ Cameron Wilson of Shorehaven and former Duke University golf team captain Michael Quagliano of GlenArbor.
Wilson is 1-up through three holes after making par on the long, par-four second hole to Quagliano's bogey. A pair of 4s at the fourth hole keep Wilson 1-up, despite the fact that he has missed three fairways. He has relied on his short game and its paying off.
Wilson is 1-up through three holes after making par on the long, par-four second hole to Quagliano's bogey. A pair of 4s at the fourth hole keep Wilson 1-up, despite the fact that he has missed three fairways. He has relied on his short game and its paying off.
August 6, 2009
Defending Champ McDonagh Misses Cut
By Billy Condon
Defending Met Amateur champion Tommy McDonagh will not advance to match play after shooting rounds of 75 and 74. After winning the Met Amateur championship in 2006 at Baltusrol, he missed the cut in 2007 at Wykagyl. It appears a pattern is forming with McDonagh winning the championship and then missing the cut every other year for the past four years. The good news is that this implies a strong finish for McDonagh next year at Quaker Ridge - time will tell.
Defending Met Amateur champion Tommy McDonagh will not advance to match play after shooting rounds of 75 and 74. After winning the Met Amateur championship in 2006 at Baltusrol, he missed the cut in 2007 at Wykagyl. It appears a pattern is forming with McDonagh winning the championship and then missing the cut every other year for the past four years. The good news is that this implies a strong finish for McDonagh next year at Quaker Ridge - time will tell.
Ace in the Hole
By Billy Condon
With his dad on the bag (see post below) Brian Whitman now has bragging rights after getting a hole-in-one on the sixth hole, a 160-yard par three.
With his dad on the bag (see post below) Brian Whitman now has bragging rights after getting a hole-in-one on the sixth hole, a 160-yard par three.
Go Low or Go Home
By Billy Condon
With the competitors finishing up their first 18 holes of the day, one thing is for sure: if you want to advance to match play, you have to go low. With David Weisfeld shooting a 65, tying the lowest 18-hole round under par (6-under) and the second-lowest 18-hole round in Met Amateur stroke play qualifying (65). Six scores are already in under par and things are on pace to result in a lot of red figures by the 16 names who will play tomorrow.
With the competitors finishing up their first 18 holes of the day, one thing is for sure: if you want to advance to match play, you have to go low. With David Weisfeld shooting a 65, tying the lowest 18-hole round under par (6-under) and the second-lowest 18-hole round in Met Amateur stroke play qualifying (65). Six scores are already in under par and things are on pace to result in a lot of red figures by the 16 names who will play tomorrow.
A Family Affair
By Billy Condon
As mentioned earlier, Mike Ballo has his brother Peter on his bag today at the Met Amateur. Peter, who begins his freshman year at St. John's University this fall, has been receiving guidance all summer- (and throughout his life) from fellow Red Storm teammate and senior captain, brother Mike.
Ed Whitman, the head golf professional at Knickerbocker is also out on the course at Hackensack today. How is this possible at an amateur event? Ed has taken on the caddie duty for his son Brian. The Whitman duo seems to be having success as Brian played his first nine holes (the back nine) at two-under. Words of wisdom: Keep paying attention to dad's reads!
Note: The three Wilson's in the field: Cameron, Pat and Peter are not related.
As mentioned earlier, Mike Ballo has his brother Peter on his bag today at the Met Amateur. Peter, who begins his freshman year at St. John's University this fall, has been receiving guidance all summer- (and throughout his life) from fellow Red Storm teammate and senior captain, brother Mike.
Ed Whitman, the head golf professional at Knickerbocker is also out on the course at Hackensack today. How is this possible at an amateur event? Ed has taken on the caddie duty for his son Brian. The Whitman duo seems to be having success as Brian played his first nine holes (the back nine) at two-under. Words of wisdom: Keep paying attention to dad's reads!
Note: The three Wilson's in the field: Cameron, Pat and Peter are not related.
Off and Running at 107th Met Amateur
By Billy CondonThe Met Area's amateur stars have come to Oradell, New Jersey, for the 107th playing of the Met Amateur at Hackensack Golf Club. Fresh off of his win at the Carter Cup yesterday at Baltusrol Golf Club down the Garden State Parkway from Hackensack, Cameron Wilson looks to continue his hot streak as he and fellow competitors Brian Komline and Pat Pierson have just teed off on the first hole. Also seen around the grounds this morning are 2008 & 2006 Met Amateur champ Tommy McDonagh and 2009 Ike champion Mike Ballo - who has his brother Peter on the bag as his caddie. Another player looking determined is Michael Quagliano, who sits in second place behind Ballo on the MGA Player of the Year points race
.Other player notes:
-Along with Wilson, there are a few other players in the field who competed yesterday in the heat and humidity at Baltusrol. They include: Jonathan Renza, Jisoo Park, and Pat Wilson, who has Carter Cup competitor Brody Nieporte on his bag.
-The pups aren't the only players ready to go. MGA tournament veterans such as Dick Siderowf, Ron Vanelli, Peter Van Ingen, Ken Bakst and Ed Gibstein have all warmed up and are aiming to shoot low.
July 1, 2009
Ballo Bests Field for Ike Title
By Billy Condon
A final round 66 was what it took for Mike Ballo to top the field for his first MGA championship. Ballo, who already won the WGA Amateur this year used a stellar back nine to secure a victory. Lurking around the top of the leaderboard after the first two rounds and shooting a one-over par 36 on his final-round's front nine, Ballo put his game in high gear for his back nine, firing a 30. The low nine-hole score for the championship. Ballo appeared to be in trouble on the 18th hole when he pulled his drive left into thick rough under a tree, but Ballo remained poised and hit his approach shot to about five feet, and then capitalized on the shot by sinking the birdie putt, marking his third birdie in his final four holes.
Besides the outstanding 30, Ballo's key to success was his consistency. He never posted higher than a 71, shot 35 twice on the back and 36 twice on the front. The only anomaly to the scorecard was a positive one, the five-under 30.
Finishing in second and third place was Chris DeForest and Roger Hoit, respectively. Both DeForest and Hoit shot final round 73's.
A final round 66 was what it took for Mike Ballo to top the field for his first MGA championship. Ballo, who already won the WGA Amateur this year used a stellar back nine to secure a victory. Lurking around the top of the leaderboard after the first two rounds and shooting a one-over par 36 on his final-round's front nine, Ballo put his game in high gear for his back nine, firing a 30. The low nine-hole score for the championship. Ballo appeared to be in trouble on the 18th hole when he pulled his drive left into thick rough under a tree, but Ballo remained poised and hit his approach shot to about five feet, and then capitalized on the shot by sinking the birdie putt, marking his third birdie in his final four holes.
Besides the outstanding 30, Ballo's key to success was his consistency. He never posted higher than a 71, shot 35 twice on the back and 36 twice on the front. The only anomaly to the scorecard was a positive one, the five-under 30.
Finishing in second and third place was Chris DeForest and Roger Hoit, respectively. Both DeForest and Hoit shot final round 73's.
DeForest Shoots Second Round 66
By Billy Condon
This just in - Chris DeForest carded a second-round 66 to be the clubhouse leader at 136. DeForest now leads Saladino and Hoit by two and Michael Quagliano is five behind DeForest at 141.
At this point in the championship, the gap in scores is widening as players look to keep themselves in contention for this afternoon's final round!
This just in - Chris DeForest carded a second-round 66 to be the clubhouse leader at 136. DeForest now leads Saladino and Hoit by two and Michael Quagliano is five behind DeForest at 141.
At this point in the championship, the gap in scores is widening as players look to keep themselves in contention for this afternoon's final round!
Sog Island
By Billy Condon
After thunderstorms caused play to be delayed, the players are back out on the course and low scores continue to saturate the leaderboard. Roger Hoit finished his second round with an impressive 66, good enough as the low round of the tournament so far and is tied for the lead at 138. Joining Hoit is Joe Saladino, who fired a second-round 67. Chris DeForest is still out on the course finishing up his second round, but was 4-under at the turn for the championship.
The weather delay reminded everyone of the scenario that the USGA encountered two weeks ago at Bethpage as they tried to complete the U.S. Open, but the sun is peeking through again and the competitors are eyeing birdies.
After thunderstorms caused play to be delayed, the players are back out on the course and low scores continue to saturate the leaderboard. Roger Hoit finished his second round with an impressive 66, good enough as the low round of the tournament so far and is tied for the lead at 138. Joining Hoit is Joe Saladino, who fired a second-round 67. Chris DeForest is still out on the course finishing up his second round, but was 4-under at the turn for the championship.
The weather delay reminded everyone of the scenario that the USGA encountered two weeks ago at Bethpage as they tried to complete the U.S. Open, but the sun is peeking through again and the competitors are eyeing birdies.
How Low Can They Go?
By Billy Condon
The scores coming in this morning have been strong as Liam Quinn of Tuxedo (76) finished his first nine at three-under par and Roger Hoit of Baltusrol (72) made the turn at two-under and is now sitting at even par for the championship. Hoit is no stranger to playing well at the Ike, having won the championship at Fresh Meadow in 2006. Conditions are near perfect with a slight breeze as the 47 players look to make their move up the leaderboard before the final round this afternoon.
The scores coming in this morning have been strong as Liam Quinn of Tuxedo (76) finished his first nine at three-under par and Roger Hoit of Baltusrol (72) made the turn at two-under and is now sitting at even par for the championship. Hoit is no stranger to playing well at the Ike, having won the championship at Fresh Meadow in 2006. Conditions are near perfect with a slight breeze as the 47 players look to make their move up the leaderboard before the final round this afternoon.
Same Course, Different Looks
By Greg Midland
MGA Tournament Director Brian Mahoney put in place some interesting course setup changes at Nassau Country Club for today's second and third rounds of the Ike Championship. The par-three third hole, which was completed last year as part of a course renovation, will play just 114 yards for this morning's second round, down from 159 yards yesterday. The teeing ground used for this distance is farther to the right, calling for players to hit their tee shots directly over the pond to a front hole location that should yield some birdies.
For this afternoon's third round, the same hole location will be used but the tees will be pushed back to 205 yards. "It's a chance for us to give the players an entirely different look from the second to third rounds," said Mahoney.
Another hole that could yield some drama today is the par-four ninth. Yesterday, it played at 303 yards but today it will be shortened to 285, giving a number of players in the field the chance to drive the green if they so choose. It's a risk/reward situation that could result in some birdies and maybe an eagle or two, but also some bogeys if players get too aggressive and hit a wayward drive.
MGA Tournament Director Brian Mahoney put in place some interesting course setup changes at Nassau Country Club for today's second and third rounds of the Ike Championship. The par-three third hole, which was completed last year as part of a course renovation, will play just 114 yards for this morning's second round, down from 159 yards yesterday. The teeing ground used for this distance is farther to the right, calling for players to hit their tee shots directly over the pond to a front hole location that should yield some birdies.
For this afternoon's third round, the same hole location will be used but the tees will be pushed back to 205 yards. "It's a chance for us to give the players an entirely different look from the second to third rounds," said Mahoney.
Another hole that could yield some drama today is the par-four ninth. Yesterday, it played at 303 yards but today it will be shortened to 285, giving a number of players in the field the chance to drive the green if they so choose. It's a risk/reward situation that could result in some birdies and maybe an eagle or two, but also some bogeys if players get too aggressive and hit a wayward drive.
June 30, 2009
Clutch Birdie Propels Foley
By Billy Condon
A gap wedge stuck to one foot on the 18th hole secured Kevin Foley a spot in tomorrow's final 36 holes of play at the Ike Championship. Foley, the 2008 Ike champion, finished on the cut line with a 76 as his clutch wedge game helped him.
As clutch as Foley's shot was, 2008 MGA Jerry Courville Player of the Year Joe Saladino upstaged Foley by draining his approach shot on 18 for an eagle two. Saladino was in between clubs but decided on his 60 degree wedge and dunked the shot.
As the day's action comes to a close, a total of 47 players made the cut for the tournament's 36-hole second day, which is sure to contain even more excitement as the area's top amateur's compete for the coveted Ike trophy.
A gap wedge stuck to one foot on the 18th hole secured Kevin Foley a spot in tomorrow's final 36 holes of play at the Ike Championship. Foley, the 2008 Ike champion, finished on the cut line with a 76 as his clutch wedge game helped him.
As clutch as Foley's shot was, 2008 MGA Jerry Courville Player of the Year Joe Saladino upstaged Foley by draining his approach shot on 18 for an eagle two. Saladino was in between clubs but decided on his 60 degree wedge and dunked the shot.
As the day's action comes to a close, a total of 47 players made the cut for the tournament's 36-hole second day, which is sure to contain even more excitement as the area's top amateur's compete for the coveted Ike trophy.
Nassau's Ace
By Billy Condon
The excitement of the Ike has brought many Nassau members out to witness the golf, including the club's most celebrated and longest-standing member, Jim Tingley. I was able to chat with Mr. Tingley about his fantastic accomplishments on the golf course as well as his thoughts on this year's Ike. Now in his 52nd year as a member of Nassau, Tingley has to his credit an unfathomable twenty holes-in-one throughout his golf career. That number trumps Jack Nicklaus's 18 career aces. In fact, the two have been in correspondence regarding their friendly hole-in-one contest. The 90-year-old Tingley has five club championships to his name at Nassau and of the twenty aces, ten of those occurred at his home course, including five on the fifth hole, with his most recent occurring in 2007 at the age of 88.
Tingley was also singled out by President Clinton on his trip to Nassau last year when the President had received word of Tingley's aces and requested that Tingley accompany him in a photo on the first tee that Tingley now proudly has in his possession.
However, the hole-in-one race was not the first time that Nicklaus and Tingley crossed paths. They actually played a practice round together for the 1961 U.S. Amateur held at Pebble Beach. Nicklaus went on to win the championship.
In regards to the Ike, Tingley was impressed with the morning rounds of 68, 69 and 70. "It's a tough par-70, and any scores under par are something to be proud of," stated Tingley, who has served on the MGA Executive Committee. Between the great golf and legendary spectators, the 2009 Ike is off to a great start.
The excitement of the Ike has brought many Nassau members out to witness the golf, including the club's most celebrated and longest-standing member, Jim Tingley. I was able to chat with Mr. Tingley about his fantastic accomplishments on the golf course as well as his thoughts on this year's Ike. Now in his 52nd year as a member of Nassau, Tingley has to his credit an unfathomable twenty holes-in-one throughout his golf career. That number trumps Jack Nicklaus's 18 career aces. In fact, the two have been in correspondence regarding their friendly hole-in-one contest. The 90-year-old Tingley has five club championships to his name at Nassau and of the twenty aces, ten of those occurred at his home course, including five on the fifth hole, with his most recent occurring in 2007 at the age of 88.
Tingley was also singled out by President Clinton on his trip to Nassau last year when the President had received word of Tingley's aces and requested that Tingley accompany him in a photo on the first tee that Tingley now proudly has in his possession.
However, the hole-in-one race was not the first time that Nicklaus and Tingley crossed paths. They actually played a practice round together for the 1961 U.S. Amateur held at Pebble Beach. Nicklaus went on to win the championship.
In regards to the Ike, Tingley was impressed with the morning rounds of 68, 69 and 70. "It's a tough par-70, and any scores under par are something to be proud of," stated Tingley, who has served on the MGA Executive Committee. Between the great golf and legendary spectators, the 2009 Ike is off to a great start.
History Repeating Itself?
By Billy Condon
Now that the morning players have finished up, the low round of the day so far is Hal Berman's 68. Also coming in low were Ken Bakst of Friar's Head with a 69, tying Al Falussy, and Michael Ballo Jr. of Woodway came in with a 70. Many of the players that have gone low have championship ties to Nassau. Berman and Falussy have each won the Nassau Invitational (2008 & 1996, respectively) while Bakst won the 1996 Met Amateur at the historic course.
The wind has picked up for the afternoon competitors and will challenge the likes of 2008 Ike champion Kevin Foley, 2008 MGA Jerry Courville Sr. Player of the Year Joe Saladino and 2008 MGA Mid-Amateur champion Greg Rohlf.
Now that the morning players have finished up, the low round of the day so far is Hal Berman's 68. Also coming in low were Ken Bakst of Friar's Head with a 69, tying Al Falussy, and Michael Ballo Jr. of Woodway came in with a 70. Many of the players that have gone low have championship ties to Nassau. Berman and Falussy have each won the Nassau Invitational (2008 & 1996, respectively) while Bakst won the 1996 Met Amateur at the historic course.
The wind has picked up for the afternoon competitors and will challenge the likes of 2008 Ike champion Kevin Foley, 2008 MGA Jerry Courville Sr. Player of the Year Joe Saladino and 2008 MGA Mid-Amateur champion Greg Rohlf.
Falussy: The Greens are Spectactular
By Billy Condon
The 54th Ike Championship is well underway at Nassau Country Club in Glen Cove, N.Y. The sun is shining and the putts are dropping as the morning wave of competitors finish their rounds. The low round so far is a 69 posted by Al Falussy of Bethpage. On his one-under par performance, Falussy said that although he had "bookend bogeys on one and eighteen, I was able to include three birdies in between." No stranger to Nassau, having won the 1996 Nassau Invitational, Falussy is playing confident and after a swing change a few weeks ago, "I can now feel my swing coming together." Falussy also raved about the condition of the course, including the "spectacular greens, the best I've seen," and that by keeping the ball below the hole, he was able to capitalize on those birdie putts. With the tees moved up a bit on the par threes Falussy expects that tomorrow's golf will play two to three strokes tougher.
Another player stroking the ball well is Connor Monaghan of North Fork. Monaghan fired a 32 on the front nine but cooled off a bit on the back, coming in at 73. Peter Herzog of the Sterling Farms Mens Club shot a two-over 72.
Stay tuned as players such as Hal Berman of Middle Bay and Mike Ballo Jr. of Woodway finish up their morning rounds shortly.
The 54th Ike Championship is well underway at Nassau Country Club in Glen Cove, N.Y. The sun is shining and the putts are dropping as the morning wave of competitors finish their rounds. The low round so far is a 69 posted by Al Falussy of Bethpage. On his one-under par performance, Falussy said that although he had "bookend bogeys on one and eighteen, I was able to include three birdies in between." No stranger to Nassau, having won the 1996 Nassau Invitational, Falussy is playing confident and after a swing change a few weeks ago, "I can now feel my swing coming together." Falussy also raved about the condition of the course, including the "spectacular greens, the best I've seen," and that by keeping the ball below the hole, he was able to capitalize on those birdie putts. With the tees moved up a bit on the par threes Falussy expects that tomorrow's golf will play two to three strokes tougher.
Another player stroking the ball well is Connor Monaghan of North Fork. Monaghan fired a 32 on the front nine but cooled off a bit on the back, coming in at 73. Peter Herzog of the Sterling Farms Mens Club shot a two-over 72.
Stay tuned as players such as Hal Berman of Middle Bay and Mike Ballo Jr. of Woodway finish up their morning rounds shortly.
June 22, 2009
Bethpage Regulars Know: 15 is a Beast
By Greg Midland
Much has been made during U.S. Open week about the difficult stretch of holes 5 through 12. But the statistics show what any regular player at Bethpage could tell you: the 15th is the Black Course's biggest backbreaker. Just a few minutes ago, this 459-yard, uphill beast derailed Tiger's rally after his back-to-back birdies on 13 and 14, as Woods made a bad bogey after hitting a solid drive and having only 175 to the green. While we mere mortals would have a hard time hitting an uphill shot of that length on the green, you don't expect to see Tiger blow a 5-iron over the green into the thick bluegrass rough, as he did. It just goes to show that when the players cross Round Swamp Road, they are faced with the toughest test on the Black.
Much has been made during U.S. Open week about the difficult stretch of holes 5 through 12. But the statistics show what any regular player at Bethpage could tell you: the 15th is the Black Course's biggest backbreaker. Just a few minutes ago, this 459-yard, uphill beast derailed Tiger's rally after his back-to-back birdies on 13 and 14, as Woods made a bad bogey after hitting a solid drive and having only 175 to the green. While we mere mortals would have a hard time hitting an uphill shot of that length on the green, you don't expect to see Tiger blow a 5-iron over the green into the thick bluegrass rough, as he did. It just goes to show that when the players cross Round Swamp Road, they are faced with the toughest test on the Black.
June 21, 2009
What A Ride for Farren
By Billy Condon
I got the chance to catch up with Sean Farren after what would be his final round of the 2009 U.S. Open on Saturday. Farren, who posted a 80-75-155 missed the cut but remained positive as he discussed the awesome experience. "It was great, just great" replied Farren regarding his first U.S. Open as a competitor. "It was long and I left a few shots out there, but it is very scorable for those guys." When asked about the course conditions and how much it affected his play, Farren admitted that it was a bit soggy out there, but he feels that it was the length of the course that was the toughest challenge. "I don't hit the ball far enough like these other guys, holes like 5, 10 and 12 I had to play as par fives - it definitely is a bomber's paradise out there. On more than a few holes Farren was forced to hit hybrids into greens where others were coming in with 7 and 8 irons.
But it has been a fairy tale week for the head pro from the Creek Club, and Farren commented on how great a lifestyle these professional golfers lead as he was able to live it for a week. "Being able to play the best golf courses in the world and get paid for it, it's like Christmas every day - the food, the transportation and just how they are treated in general.
Farren was also impressed with how nice the other golfers were, especially after having a friendly chat with Jim Furyk, who asked about the Creek and the history behind the fantastic course. Farren also believes he was a little bit of luck for some of the guys who have been on their A game this week, having played with Lucas Glover, Todd Hamilton and Matt Bettencourt all at some point during the week.
Farren stated that in regards to playing in a U.S. Open, "anyone who loves golf should be able to experience this once in their lifetime. If I had the chance to do this again, I would give it up for someone else to have the chance."
When asked if he was going to stick around to see the outcome of the Open, Farren said that he has to go back to work on Sunday now that he doesn't have the Open as an excuse. Regardless, Sean Farren can always look back on the fact that not only did he qualify, he was able to play golf on Saturday at the U.S. Open in front of friends, family and strangers who embraced him as their hometown guy.
I got the chance to catch up with Sean Farren after what would be his final round of the 2009 U.S. Open on Saturday. Farren, who posted a 80-75-155 missed the cut but remained positive as he discussed the awesome experience. "It was great, just great" replied Farren regarding his first U.S. Open as a competitor. "It was long and I left a few shots out there, but it is very scorable for those guys." When asked about the course conditions and how much it affected his play, Farren admitted that it was a bit soggy out there, but he feels that it was the length of the course that was the toughest challenge. "I don't hit the ball far enough like these other guys, holes like 5, 10 and 12 I had to play as par fives - it definitely is a bomber's paradise out there. On more than a few holes Farren was forced to hit hybrids into greens where others were coming in with 7 and 8 irons.
But it has been a fairy tale week for the head pro from the Creek Club, and Farren commented on how great a lifestyle these professional golfers lead as he was able to live it for a week. "Being able to play the best golf courses in the world and get paid for it, it's like Christmas every day - the food, the transportation and just how they are treated in general.
Farren was also impressed with how nice the other golfers were, especially after having a friendly chat with Jim Furyk, who asked about the Creek and the history behind the fantastic course. Farren also believes he was a little bit of luck for some of the guys who have been on their A game this week, having played with Lucas Glover, Todd Hamilton and Matt Bettencourt all at some point during the week.
Farren stated that in regards to playing in a U.S. Open, "anyone who loves golf should be able to experience this once in their lifetime. If I had the chance to do this again, I would give it up for someone else to have the chance."
When asked if he was going to stick around to see the outcome of the Open, Farren said that he has to go back to work on Sunday now that he doesn't have the Open as an excuse. Regardless, Sean Farren can always look back on the fact that not only did he qualify, he was able to play golf on Saturday at the U.S. Open in front of friends, family and strangers who embraced him as their hometown guy.
June 20, 2009
Amateurs Making Their Mark
By Greg Midland
Most players in the U.S. Open are playing for prize money -- plenty of it, in fact. But the amateurs in this year's field are having a good time, too. Three amateurs made the cut, and one of them, 21-year-old Nick Taylor of British Columbia, is legitimately in contention at 2-under-par 138. Drew Weaver, the 22-year-old who won the British Amateur in 2007 and is a graduate of Virginia Tech, is particularly animated with the crowds, who are eating it up. The third amateur to make the cut is 21-year-old Kyle Stanley of Clemson.
Most players in the U.S. Open are playing for prize money -- plenty of it, in fact. But the amateurs in this year's field are having a good time, too. Three amateurs made the cut, and one of them, 21-year-old Nick Taylor of British Columbia, is legitimately in contention at 2-under-par 138. Drew Weaver, the 22-year-old who won the British Amateur in 2007 and is a graduate of Virginia Tech, is particularly animated with the crowds, who are eating it up. The third amateur to make the cut is 21-year-old Kyle Stanley of Clemson.
MGA Folks Inside the Ropes
By Greg Midland
The USGA has a strong relationship with the state and regional golf associations, and the affiliation with the MGA is particularly strong. A few MGA staffers have had large roles inside the ropes at the U.S. Open. Here's a summary:
--On Thursday, longtime MGA Tournament Director Gene Westmoreland was the walking Rules official with the Tiger Woods/Angel Cabrera/Padraig Harrington group.
--On Friday, MGA Executive Director Jay Mottola was an observer walking with the Phil Mickelson/Ernie Els/Retief Goosen group.
--On Saturday, Mottola observed for the Woods/Cabrera/Harrington group.
--All three championship days thus far, MGA Assistant Tournament Director Brian Farrelly has assisted the NBC television crew with equipment out on the course. On Saturday, Farrelly was assigned to the Woods/Cabrera/Harrington group in the morning, and then went back out at the end of the day for the Woods/Romero third-round pairing.
These three members of the MGA staff played key roles in the U.S. Open, demonstrating that these championships could not run without the help of volunteers. Farrelly described his experience helping NBC as "unbelievable, far over my expectations," and said that he helped with everything from driving a cart that had camera equipment on it to holding cables.
The USGA has a strong relationship with the state and regional golf associations, and the affiliation with the MGA is particularly strong. A few MGA staffers have had large roles inside the ropes at the U.S. Open. Here's a summary:
--On Thursday, longtime MGA Tournament Director Gene Westmoreland was the walking Rules official with the Tiger Woods/Angel Cabrera/Padraig Harrington group.
--On Friday, MGA Executive Director Jay Mottola was an observer walking with the Phil Mickelson/Ernie Els/Retief Goosen group.
--On Saturday, Mottola observed for the Woods/Cabrera/Harrington group.
--All three championship days thus far, MGA Assistant Tournament Director Brian Farrelly has assisted the NBC television crew with equipment out on the course. On Saturday, Farrelly was assigned to the Woods/Cabrera/Harrington group in the morning, and then went back out at the end of the day for the Woods/Romero third-round pairing.
These three members of the MGA staff played key roles in the U.S. Open, demonstrating that these championships could not run without the help of volunteers. Farrelly described his experience helping NBC as "unbelievable, far over my expectations," and said that he helped with everything from driving a cart that had camera equipment on it to holding cables.
June 19, 2009
A Walk to Remember
By Billy Condon
I arrived to Bethpage this afternoon and as the sun poured down, there was one thing that kept drawing my attention - feet. The heavy rains that doused Bethpage yesterday made for quite the mudfest today and the New York fans were up to the challenge...well...most were. Some of the more creative and smart solutions to the muddy mess I encountered were a few gentlemen who had tied plastic bags around their feet and up their lower legs. Another man wore plastic bags around his socks inside his shoes. Others wore mid-calf rubber galoshes while another wore crocs.
Some of the footwear blunders of the day included a frequency of sandals, including ones that someone had given up on and abandoned in the sticky swamp that was the gallery walkways. And with the mud kicking up the back of legs, the sundresses that were being sported today turned out to be a big mistake.
With the expected precipitation tomorrow, it again looks like proper footwear will be a must as today's sun managed to not dry out the mud, but turn it into a pine tar-esque paste. Alas, it will take more than a little rain and mud to quiet the rambunctious fans as cheers, boos, laughs and gaffs continue to echo through the grounds of the Black.
I arrived to Bethpage this afternoon and as the sun poured down, there was one thing that kept drawing my attention - feet. The heavy rains that doused Bethpage yesterday made for quite the mudfest today and the New York fans were up to the challenge...well...most were. Some of the more creative and smart solutions to the muddy mess I encountered were a few gentlemen who had tied plastic bags around their feet and up their lower legs. Another man wore plastic bags around his socks inside his shoes. Others wore mid-calf rubber galoshes while another wore crocs.
Some of the footwear blunders of the day included a frequency of sandals, including ones that someone had given up on and abandoned in the sticky swamp that was the gallery walkways. And with the mud kicking up the back of legs, the sundresses that were being sported today turned out to be a big mistake.
With the expected precipitation tomorrow, it again looks like proper footwear will be a must as today's sun managed to not dry out the mud, but turn it into a pine tar-esque paste. Alas, it will take more than a little rain and mud to quiet the rambunctious fans as cheers, boos, laughs and gaffs continue to echo through the grounds of the Black.
Sun! And a Ticket Policy Change
By Greg Midland
You'd be forgiven if you turned on the TV coverage of the U.S. Open and been confused as to what was producing the bright light that is actually creating shadows on the wet ground. That's right, the sun has come out at Bethpage Black! Even for those of us who put our sunglasses away for the week, this is a very happy occurence.
Unfortunately, this bright cloud has a dark lining. Rain is in the forecast again tomorrow, and unless we get lucky, it's going to be nearly impossible to finish 72 holes by Sunday evening. It's looking like the first non-playoff Monday finish since 1983 at Oakmont.
If that happens, USGA Executive Director David Fay announced this morning that fans who were disappointed following yesterday's postponement of play will be able to use their Thursday tickets on Monday. To the USGA's credit, they responded to widespread criticism by fans and the media regarding, as Fay put it, the "vague yet rigid" ticket policy.
You'd be forgiven if you turned on the TV coverage of the U.S. Open and been confused as to what was producing the bright light that is actually creating shadows on the wet ground. That's right, the sun has come out at Bethpage Black! Even for those of us who put our sunglasses away for the week, this is a very happy occurence.
Unfortunately, this bright cloud has a dark lining. Rain is in the forecast again tomorrow, and unless we get lucky, it's going to be nearly impossible to finish 72 holes by Sunday evening. It's looking like the first non-playoff Monday finish since 1983 at Oakmont.
If that happens, USGA Executive Director David Fay announced this morning that fans who were disappointed following yesterday's postponement of play will be able to use their Thursday tickets on Monday. To the USGA's credit, they responded to widespread criticism by fans and the media regarding, as Fay put it, the "vague yet rigid" ticket policy.
June 18, 2009
We Like Mike
By Greg Midland
Sportswriters, not to mention professional golfers, can be a demanding lot. Toss in a waterlogged U.S. Open that looks like it might not finish until Monday (or Tuesday), and the crankiness factor goes way up. That's why it was so impressive to watch USGA Senior Director of Rules & Competition Mike Davis in action at a packed press conference on Thursday afternoon, at which he discussed in detail the way the weather is impacting this 109th U.S. Open Championship.
Davis is a straight shooter, and the media respect him greatly for that. So too the players, most of whom agreed with the decision to start play today despite the morning drizzle: Tiger Woods said, "We had to get in as many holes as we possibly could, and we played more holes than we thought." Sure, a few players, especially the ones who struggled in the wet conditions, bemoaned the fact that they had to go out there at all, but they have to realize that the forecast is iffy at best for the next several days, and as Davis pointed out, "The USGA will not determine a national champion until we play 72 holes." And there is absolutely zero chance they will employ the lift, clean and place policy sometimes used on the PGA Tour.
Some other snippets from Davis in the press conference:
--"If the forecast we've got right now for Saturday and so on were absolutely accurate...yes, finishing on Sunday would be borderline impossible."
--"This course, if you come out here most of the time, plays beautifully firm. So it's very frustrating that we're not really getting to see the true Bethpage, where you're bouncing balls in."
--"If it takes us into Monday or Tuesday, whatever, we had a Women's Open several years ago back in the 1980s finish up on Tuesday, and unfortunately we had a playoff that went into Wednesday. Not trying to be pessimistic, but we will play 72 holes."
--"If there is one silver lining in this, a glimmer of hope, it's that the course drains beautifully."
The more than 400 members of the media typing away in the media center appreciate Davis's candor, and know that he's as frustrated as anyone by the start to this U.S. Open. Let's all hope the forecast improves and a new U.S. Open champion will be crowned by Sunday or, at worst, Monday.
Sportswriters, not to mention professional golfers, can be a demanding lot. Toss in a waterlogged U.S. Open that looks like it might not finish until Monday (or Tuesday), and the crankiness factor goes way up. That's why it was so impressive to watch USGA Senior Director of Rules & Competition Mike Davis in action at a packed press conference on Thursday afternoon, at which he discussed in detail the way the weather is impacting this 109th U.S. Open Championship.
Davis is a straight shooter, and the media respect him greatly for that. So too the players, most of whom agreed with the decision to start play today despite the morning drizzle: Tiger Woods said, "We had to get in as many holes as we possibly could, and we played more holes than we thought." Sure, a few players, especially the ones who struggled in the wet conditions, bemoaned the fact that they had to go out there at all, but they have to realize that the forecast is iffy at best for the next several days, and as Davis pointed out, "The USGA will not determine a national champion until we play 72 holes." And there is absolutely zero chance they will employ the lift, clean and place policy sometimes used on the PGA Tour.
Some other snippets from Davis in the press conference:
--"If the forecast we've got right now for Saturday and so on were absolutely accurate...yes, finishing on Sunday would be borderline impossible."
--"This course, if you come out here most of the time, plays beautifully firm. So it's very frustrating that we're not really getting to see the true Bethpage, where you're bouncing balls in."
--"If it takes us into Monday or Tuesday, whatever, we had a Women's Open several years ago back in the 1980s finish up on Tuesday, and unfortunately we had a playoff that went into Wednesday. Not trying to be pessimistic, but we will play 72 holes."
--"If there is one silver lining in this, a glimmer of hope, it's that the course drains beautifully."
The more than 400 members of the media typing away in the media center appreciate Davis's candor, and know that he's as frustrated as anyone by the start to this U.S. Open. Let's all hope the forecast improves and a new U.S. Open champion will be crowned by Sunday or, at worst, Monday.
Water, Water Everywhere
By Greg Midland
As the noon hour approaches here at Bethpage, play has been suspended for more than 90 minutes and there has been no let-up in the nasty weather. Sheets of rain and occasional gusty wind is combining to make it miserable for the spectators, many of whom are taking cover in the merchandise tent. So between memorabilia and beer sales, it could turn out to be a profitable rain delay for the USGA!
Still, they'd obviously much rather be playing golf. I arrived here at 8:15 this morning and caught up to Tiger, Angel Cabrera and Padraig Harrington on the fifth hole -- where both Tiger and Harrington made double bogey. Tiger then curled in a nice birdie putt on the sixth green, and the crowd roared its approval. It was at that moment that the rain started picking up, and by the time the group reached the seventh green, the horn had blown. Tiger and Cabrera elected to play their bunker shots onto the seventh green and mark their balls there.
Walking back to the media center was a slog. Mud is everywhere out here -- if you're going to come out any of the remaining days, waterproof shoes are a plus. Right now, the greens have rivers of water running through them and the fairways are puddling up. If it stops raining, the maintenance staff will need at least an hour and a half to get the course playable again. Stay tuned.
As the noon hour approaches here at Bethpage, play has been suspended for more than 90 minutes and there has been no let-up in the nasty weather. Sheets of rain and occasional gusty wind is combining to make it miserable for the spectators, many of whom are taking cover in the merchandise tent. So between memorabilia and beer sales, it could turn out to be a profitable rain delay for the USGA!
Still, they'd obviously much rather be playing golf. I arrived here at 8:15 this morning and caught up to Tiger, Angel Cabrera and Padraig Harrington on the fifth hole -- where both Tiger and Harrington made double bogey. Tiger then curled in a nice birdie putt on the sixth green, and the crowd roared its approval. It was at that moment that the rain started picking up, and by the time the group reached the seventh green, the horn had blown. Tiger and Cabrera elected to play their bunker shots onto the seventh green and mark their balls there.
Walking back to the media center was a slog. Mud is everywhere out here -- if you're going to come out any of the remaining days, waterproof shoes are a plus. Right now, the greens have rivers of water running through them and the fairways are puddling up. If it stops raining, the maintenance staff will need at least an hour and a half to get the course playable again. Stay tuned.
June 17, 2009
Afternoon Delight
By Billy Condon
Photo Gallery
J.J. and I…Round Two – After what I thought was an exciting morning, this afternoon was a real treat. After lunch I headed to the practice greens and got the chance to catch up one-on-one with J.J. Henry. Again in good spirits, J.J. said that although the course is playing long, it is playing fair. “Everything is right there in front of you to go and get it,” said Henry. Henry reiterated how special it is playing a U.S. Open here in the Met Area so close to where he grew up and knowing he will have the hometown crowd supporting him. With the looming threat of rain tomorrow, he said that today’s conditions were ideal, but if the weather gets bad “it means you have to hang in there so much more, it’s the same course for everybody, so those that can stick it out will have success.”
Player Impressions – Between Phil Mickelson’s press conference this morning, word of mouth around the course and my interaction with other players, the one thing on everyone’s mind is length and strategy, particularly with where the tees will be located. With the predicted forecast, players are finding that a common word this week will be “hybrid” and they are hoping that the USGA will keep this in mind when setting the tees for tomorrow’s opening round.
I was able to catch up with Sean Farren as he was getting ready to call it a day and he said how he is hitting an iron on his second shots about every six holes and that his hybrids are getting a ton of use. However, he feels confident that with solid play he can hold his own and he is enjoying every minute of the experience.
Chat with Paul – I was fortunate enough to have a lengthy conversation with the number-three ranked player in the world, Paul Casey. Many different topics were covered including the course layout, his thoughts on golf in New York, and Twitter. Having not played at Bethpage in the 2002 Open, Casey played a practice round last week and is getting a great feel for the course and is confident with his ball-striking. He also said how he hasn’t really played much golf here in the Met Area apart from Baltusrol and Winged Foot and doesn’t really know many of the other courses the area boasts. Casey did say that although the Black plays long, it is also a friendly course for those shorter hitters that are deadly accurate. Ball placement will be a big factor this week and players won’t necessarily need 300 yard drives to gain an advantage.
Casey talked about how Twitter has become the new rage on the Tour although he was still trying to figure how to use it. While on the topic of Twitter, the Tour’s Twitter King, Stewart Cink, came over and joined the conversation (photo evidence above). It was awesome to be involved in a conversation with some of the game’s best. A great end to a terrific day out at the Black!
Practice Round with J.J. Henry
By Billy Condon
I managed to catch up with J.J. Henry for some of his morning practice round today and he appeared very cool and collected. Cracking smiles and stopping to sign autographs and pose for pictures, he has been one of the most accomodating pros out here to fans of all ages. When a cameraman laid on the ground right behind him for his tee shot for the par three third hole, Henry gave a glance and said "That's a great spot to take the picture." He then knocked a long iron down the pipe. When asked if he would play with a Met Area club member in his member-guest next week, Henry asked which club it was being held at and that he would be there (followed up by a quick wink). Of all the personalities out at Bethpage this week, Henry may not be as in-demand as Tiger, Phil and Rocco, but the pro golf faithful recognize that he is a local guy who can make some moves out here.
I managed to catch up with J.J. Henry for some of his morning practice round today and he appeared very cool and collected. Cracking smiles and stopping to sign autographs and pose for pictures, he has been one of the most accomodating pros out here to fans of all ages. When a cameraman laid on the ground right behind him for his tee shot for the par three third hole, Henry gave a glance and said "That's a great spot to take the picture." He then knocked a long iron down the pipe. When asked if he would play with a Met Area club member in his member-guest next week, Henry asked which club it was being held at and that he would be there (followed up by a quick wink). Of all the personalities out at Bethpage this week, Henry may not be as in-demand as Tiger, Phil and Rocco, but the pro golf faithful recognize that he is a local guy who can make some moves out here.
Fans in the Stands
By Billy Condon
I was able to catch up with a local golf fan, Nick D. of Huntington, N.Y. Nick and his buddies had been camped out on the 17th green the since 7 a.m. and were particularly excited to see Mickelson. I got a chance to talk to Nick while we watched Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Billy Mayfair, and Phil Mickelson play the tough par three. The one downfall of this prime spot for the Long Island boys is that there is no "dibs" on grandstand seats, making them forfeit a frosty beverage in order to catch a glimpse of Mickelson.
Nick plans to attend the Open on Sunday with the intention of following Tiger as much as he can and then heading back to his spot on 17. Besides Tiger, Nick thinks that gonna Mickelson has a great chance to win as well as Rocco Mediate. His dark horse pick is Sergio Garcia. Only time will tell as the 2009 U.S. Open kicks off tomorrow.
I was able to catch up with a local golf fan, Nick D. of Huntington, N.Y. Nick and his buddies had been camped out on the 17th green the since 7 a.m. and were particularly excited to see Mickelson. I got a chance to talk to Nick while we watched Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Billy Mayfair, and Phil Mickelson play the tough par three. The one downfall of this prime spot for the Long Island boys is that there is no "dibs" on grandstand seats, making them forfeit a frosty beverage in order to catch a glimpse of Mickelson.
Nick plans to attend the Open on Sunday with the intention of following Tiger as much as he can and then heading back to his spot on 17. Besides Tiger, Nick thinks that gonna Mickelson has a great chance to win as well as Rocco Mediate. His dark horse pick is Sergio Garcia. Only time will tell as the 2009 U.S. Open kicks off tomorrow.
Morning Rounds
By Billy Condon
Walking back to the Media Center I bumped into last year's U.S. Open runner-up Rocco Mediate and shook his hand and wished him luck for this week. He is sure to be another fan favorite out here.
Ok, down to business - At least for today, the weather has not been an issue out here at the Black. Sunny skies and vocal crowds have been around all day and it keeps getting more crowded. The most attention of the players playing this morning was on Phil Mickelson. Lefty has had a mass of people following him and each tee and green that he approaches people shout their support. Playing alongside Jim Furyk today, Mickelson has been chatting it up with the 2003 U.S. Open champion, and Furyk has also been speaking a fair amount with Mickelson's caddie, Jim Mackay.
Also, quite a few spectators are sporting periscopes that they bought at the 2002 U.S. Open and happen to be designed by Mickelson's father and his company, the Mickelson Group.
A few notes from walking around during this mornings practice rounds:
-They were using a large fan on the 17th green, all the rain has resulted in soft greens with the players attacking the hole locations.
-Players MUST keep the ball in or near the fairway. Jeff Brehaut got caught in the long hay on 13 and his attempt to hack it out resulted in the ball advancing two feet.
-Especially today, players are not hesitant to drop a second, third and even fourth ball and test different clubs on par threes, chipping from different lies around the green, and are investigating strategies they will take for the tricky hole locations lined up for the next four days.
-While everyone is supporting Phil full-force, the buzz around the grandstands and concession stands are on Tiger, how he will perform, and if anyone has seen him.
Walking back to the Media Center I bumped into last year's U.S. Open runner-up Rocco Mediate and shook his hand and wished him luck for this week. He is sure to be another fan favorite out here.
Ok, down to business - At least for today, the weather has not been an issue out here at the Black. Sunny skies and vocal crowds have been around all day and it keeps getting more crowded. The most attention of the players playing this morning was on Phil Mickelson. Lefty has had a mass of people following him and each tee and green that he approaches people shout their support. Playing alongside Jim Furyk today, Mickelson has been chatting it up with the 2003 U.S. Open champion, and Furyk has also been speaking a fair amount with Mickelson's caddie, Jim Mackay.
Also, quite a few spectators are sporting periscopes that they bought at the 2002 U.S. Open and happen to be designed by Mickelson's father and his company, the Mickelson Group.
A few notes from walking around during this mornings practice rounds:
-They were using a large fan on the 17th green, all the rain has resulted in soft greens with the players attacking the hole locations.
-Players MUST keep the ball in or near the fairway. Jeff Brehaut got caught in the long hay on 13 and his attempt to hack it out resulted in the ball advancing two feet.
-Especially today, players are not hesitant to drop a second, third and even fourth ball and test different clubs on par threes, chipping from different lies around the green, and are investigating strategies they will take for the tricky hole locations lined up for the next four days.
-While everyone is supporting Phil full-force, the buzz around the grandstands and concession stands are on Tiger, how he will perform, and if anyone has seen him.
Phil's Arrival
By Billy Condon
I just got out of Phil Mickelson's press conference where the bulk of questions were geared towards his wife, Amy, and her recent diagnosis of breast cancer. Mickelson said how much he and Amy appreciate all of the support they have received, including the "Pink Out" held a few weeks back. He also spoke of how appreciative they are of all the articles the media has written in not only support of Amy, but of the individual stories they all share. This week, Amy has been leaving her husband notes, cards, and texts cheering him on and hopes that he can "bring home a nice silver trophy for her hospital room" when her treatment begins July 1.
Mickelson also spoke of how excited he is to be back in New York and how Bethpage (Black) is one of his favorite golf courses. He went on to say how he has brushed up on all current news regarding the Giants, Jets, Yankees and Mets so that he is prepared to talk sports with the New York fans.
You can be sure that all of the fans this week - and when Mickelson steps up to his first tee shot tomorrow will be cheering him on 100%.
I just got out of Phil Mickelson's press conference where the bulk of questions were geared towards his wife, Amy, and her recent diagnosis of breast cancer. Mickelson said how much he and Amy appreciate all of the support they have received, including the "Pink Out" held a few weeks back. He also spoke of how appreciative they are of all the articles the media has written in not only support of Amy, but of the individual stories they all share. This week, Amy has been leaving her husband notes, cards, and texts cheering him on and hopes that he can "bring home a nice silver trophy for her hospital room" when her treatment begins July 1.
Mickelson also spoke of how excited he is to be back in New York and how Bethpage (Black) is one of his favorite golf courses. He went on to say how he has brushed up on all current news regarding the Giants, Jets, Yankees and Mets so that he is prepared to talk sports with the New York fans.
You can be sure that all of the fans this week - and when Mickelson steps up to his first tee shot tomorrow will be cheering him on 100%.
June 16, 2009
Phil Arrives on Wednesday
By Greg Midland
Phil Mickelson's caddie, Jim "Bones" Mackay, arrived at Bethpage today to scout the golf course for his boss. He walked onto the driving range as Tiger was hitting balls and fans recognized him right away. He had to disappoint them, unfortunately. "Sorry guys," Mackay said. "He's not here today." He does have an 8:00 a.m. press conference scheduled in the media center on Wednesday, however, so fans with Wednesday practice round tickets should get to see their man Phil tee off around mid-morning.
Phil Mickelson's caddie, Jim "Bones" Mackay, arrived at Bethpage today to scout the golf course for his boss. He walked onto the driving range as Tiger was hitting balls and fans recognized him right away. He had to disappoint them, unfortunately. "Sorry guys," Mackay said. "He's not here today." He does have an 8:00 a.m. press conference scheduled in the media center on Wednesday, however, so fans with Wednesday practice round tickets should get to see their man Phil tee off around mid-morning.
Range Rat
By Greg Midland
The same way that fans flock to ballparks early to watch batting practice, golf fans love to watch the world's best players hit range balls. And no one brings the crowds like Tiger. This morning, on a cool, overcast day at Bethpage, about 3,000 fans packed the grandstand and standing areas around the driving range to watch The Striped One stripe some Pro v1 practice balls. With swing coach Hank Haney watching closely, Tiger hit balls for about an hour after playing nine holes with Andrew Svoboda this morning. The crowd applauded when he took the headcover off his driver and started bombing away, but I was more impressed with his 3- and 5-wood swings. The mix of trajectories he gets with these clubs from swing to swing is incredible. I don't think he'll be using the "stinger" swing too much this week because there won't be much run on the fairways, but it's there if he needs it.
June 12, 2009
Change of Scenes
By Billy Condon
Yesterday I got my first real taste of competitive golf, playing in the MGA/MetLife Public Links Qualifier at Mohansic Golf Course in
The last “serious” stroke play event I played in was when I was around 13 at the local nine-hole course, where I came away the winner, but where the One-Ball Rule and Doubt as to Procedure were not in anyone’s vocabulary.
As a 2008 P.J. Boatwright intern, I worked on the other side of MGA tournaments setting up courses and giving rulings. Being on the other side of the ball was intimidating. After warming up on the range, I arrived at the first tee with my caddie. A deep breath and a swing later I had missed the fairway left, but I was relieved I didn’t whiff. Salvaging a bogey, I was just glad that the first hole was over. The next six holes were a struggle as I only made one par but I started hitting my stride after parring the eighth and ninth holes. At this point, my caddie and good friend Jason stepped in and made sure that I was loose and not worrying about numbers. His tactic worked as I started hitting fairways and greens, including a near hole-out for eagle on the 15th that came to rest a foot from the hole.
After a 43 on the front nine, my game came together on the back nine as I came in with a 37 and finished with an 80 on the day. It wasn’t good enough to qualify but respectable enough to get the thumbs-up from friends and coworkers, even those who lost the office pool by picking the “over.”
June 8, 2009
Low Scoring at the Halfway Point
By Greg Midland
The combination of perfect weather and receptive greens at both Old Oaks and Century is setting the stage for an afternoon shootout at U.S. Open sectional qualifying. Three players shot 68 in the morning round, including Sean Farren, the head pro at Creek Club on Long Island, and Michael Tulacz, from the Hudson Valley town of Connelly, N.Y.
Other Met Area players in good position to earn one of the four available spots in the 109th U.S. Open Championship include Saint Andrew's head pro Greg Bisconti (69), former MGA/MetLife Public Links champion Paul Dickinson of Montauk, N.Y. (69), and two former Met Open champions, John Stoltz and Andrew Svoboda, who both shot 70.
Stay tuned to www.mgagolf.org for updated scoring all afternoon and video interviews with the qualifiers at the end of the day.
The combination of perfect weather and receptive greens at both Old Oaks and Century is setting the stage for an afternoon shootout at U.S. Open sectional qualifying. Three players shot 68 in the morning round, including Sean Farren, the head pro at Creek Club on Long Island, and Michael Tulacz, from the Hudson Valley town of Connelly, N.Y.
Other Met Area players in good position to earn one of the four available spots in the 109th U.S. Open Championship include Saint Andrew's head pro Greg Bisconti (69), former MGA/MetLife Public Links champion Paul Dickinson of Montauk, N.Y. (69), and two former Met Open champions, John Stoltz and Andrew Svoboda, who both shot 70.
Stay tuned to www.mgagolf.org for updated scoring all afternoon and video interviews with the qualifiers at the end of the day.
They're Off! 77 for 4 spots
By Greg Midland
We're underway at Century Country Club and Old Oaks Country Club, as 77 professionals and amateurs compete for 4 spots in the 109th U.S. Open Championship at Bethpage. Scoring conditions are ideal, as there is no wind adn the greens were softened a bit by overnight rain showers. It should give the players an opportunity to display their talents as they compete for a coveted spot in the national championship.
The field includes Mathias Gronberg, who won this weekend's Nationwide Tour event in Maryland in a 36-hole final day. Gronberg will be playing his second consecutive 36-hole day, but this time the prize will be a spot in the toughest tournament in golf.
We did have one withdrawl: Frenchman Jean Van de Velde, who was replaced in the field by Kirk Oguri of Huntington, N.Y.
We're underway at Century Country Club and Old Oaks Country Club, as 77 professionals and amateurs compete for 4 spots in the 109th U.S. Open Championship at Bethpage. Scoring conditions are ideal, as there is no wind adn the greens were softened a bit by overnight rain showers. It should give the players an opportunity to display their talents as they compete for a coveted spot in the national championship.
The field includes Mathias Gronberg, who won this weekend's Nationwide Tour event in Maryland in a 36-hole final day. Gronberg will be playing his second consecutive 36-hole day, but this time the prize will be a spot in the toughest tournament in golf.
We did have one withdrawl: Frenchman Jean Van de Velde, who was replaced in the field by Kirk Oguri of Huntington, N.Y.
June 3, 2009
One Ticket to Bethpage, Please
By Billy Condon
The hottest ticket in town this summer is not to see the American Idols concert tour or even the Jonas Brothers, but rather one of the remaining qualifying spots to play in the 2009 U.S. Open…and StubHub won’t be able to help. The only chance to punch a ticket to the Black is to earn a spot at one of 13 sectional qualifiers being held nationwide on June 8. Vying for these spots are a cast of characters that ranges from teenagers, college All-Americans, club professionals, pros with multiple Tour victories, and guys who work 9-5 jobs but pack a summer schedule of golf. The exciting thing is that all of these people have an equal chance to qualify…whether your name is Brad Faxon, an eight-time PGA Tour winner or Mike Stamberger, a finance broker in New York City.
Here is a quick breakdown on some of the Met Area amateurs looking to qualify:
• Morgan Hoffmann – Too many accolades to list after a tremendous freshman debut at Oklahoma State (see post below). Qualifying in Columbus, Ohio.
• Michael Quagliano – Qualified for Torrey Pines last year from the Memphis, Tenn. qualifier. Looks to again qualify in the Volunteer State – why mess with a good thing?
• Cameron Wilson – At 16 is the second-youngest competitor to make it to Sectionals and who just finished his junior year of high school. A strong lefty that backs down to no one and thrives in competition.
• Max Buckley – Recently finished his freshman year at SMU. A past Carter Cup champion that did a post-grad year at the Hank Haney International Golf Academy.
• Mike Stamberger – A past Met Amateur champion that advanced to the quarters of the 2008 U.S. Mid-Am.
June 1, 2009
Top Freshman Honors for Hoffmann
By Billy Condon
Morgan Hoffmann, Oklahoma State’s freshman phenom who now holds the top-ranked spot in the R&A World Amateur Golf Rankings, was recently awarded the Phil Mickelson Award, as the most outstanding freshman in Division I men's golf. Hoffmann, who finished as the medalist in three events, including the Big 12 championship, was also named first-team All-American, All-Big 12 and Big 12 Player and Newcomer of the Year. He was also named to the U.S. Palmer Cup team and a semifinalist for the Hogan Award as the top player in college golf. It is an understatement to say that Hoffmann’s freshman campaign as a Cowboy was impressive as he now sets his sights on qualifying for the U.S. Open in
Photo Credit: Oklahoma State Athletics
May 21, 2009
"So, What's Your Handicap?"
By Billy Condon
With the U.S. Open less than a month away, the worldwide golf buzz has already started. People at bars, courses, and walking down the street are excited to watch Tiger & co. tackle Bethpage once more, and golfers are debating about how they would fare teeing it up with the big boys. This conversation often turns to: “So, what’s your handicap?”
Therefore, in tune with this week’s poll, we’ll tackle one of golf’s greatest mysteries…the handicap. True or false: every golfer keeps a handicap? False. Fact: every golfer SHOULD have an official USGA Handicap Index, even if they don’t entirely understand the purpose of that double — but hopefully one day single — digit number. Here is a quick overview of the handicap system and why, no matter the skill of the player, you should keep one.
1) It allows players of all abilities to compete on an equitable level…making it your only chance to beat Tiger Woods outside of video games
2) It allows players to track their games as they improve
3) It allows players to track their games as their game falls apart
4) It allows a player to enter tournaments, outings and other events where handicaps are required
5) And if nothing else, it makes you look like you are serious about the game…and it’s cheap!
Now that you are excited about the handicap system, here’s how to sign up:
-You can click here: I am ready to start my handicap journey
-If you are an existing member of a golf club, men’s league, or any other organized group, you can talk to your handicap chairman about getting started with an official USGA Handicap Index.
-If not, contact a club near you and sign up today!
May 12, 2009
Catch the Trend
By Billy Condon
Trends come and go, especially in sports. From the short-shorts in the NBA to the oversize visors in golf that were sported by the likes of Tom Kite and Laura Davies (sorry David Toms), sports trends are in and out of style as often as Sergio changes putters.
Like all trends, it just takes an individual to spark the idea before others adopt a similar routine. From LeBron’s baby powder toss before a game, Big Papi’s pre-swing spit-clap and Paula Creamer’s pink outfit and golf ball, athletes have become synonymous with their individual trends. Not to mention that guy who wears red on Sundays. Here is a short list of examples in golf that help make our game unique, exciting and the source of conversation at the 19th hole.
-Any outfit by Ian Poulter
-John Daly’s new clothing endorser
-Boo Weekley and camouflage
-Bubba Watson and pink shafts
-Camilo Villegas’s Spider-man approach to reading putts
-Jim Furyk’s “back-off” putting routine
-Anthony Kim’s belt buckles
-Shingo Katayama’s cowboy hats
-Gary Player’s all-black attire
Photo Credit: Stuart Franklin - Getty Images
May 8, 2009
Despite Unfavorable Outcome, MGA Enjoys the Emerald Isle
By Kate Keller
Thursday, May 7
Several of the MGA Team members departed this morning for New York Mike Reardon, Cameron Wilson and Robert Cronheim all stayed at Portmarnock to play in the Irish Amateur Open Championship beginning Friday, May 8 at Royal Dublin.
A few of us, Al Small and his wife Patti, Gene Westmoreland and his wife Mary and I, traveled to The North. The drive along the cost of
We visited Royal County Down Golf Club. It was just as picturesque as one can imagine, and all were raving about the experience of playing this world famous course. Mary and I toured the quaint town of
Wednesday, May 6
It was another great finish today, although the outcome didn't come out the way the MGA had intended. Members of both teams played great and the awards reception was lovely. MGA President Al Small and team captain Gene Westmoreland stressed how much pride they had in their team, and how impressive the caliber of play was this week. Gene said it best, "When we arrived on Monday, there were some new friends and some old friends, and after today, we are ALL old friends".
We made plans with P.J. Collins, President of the GUI, and Rollo McClure, Honorary Treasurer of the GUI, to meet up when they visit
May 6, 2009
MGA, GUI Tied After First Day of Carey Cup
The MGA and the Golfing Union of Ireland are tied after the first day of competition at the Carey Cup Matches at the Portmarnock Links and Hotel in Dublin, Ireland. Visit www.mgagolf.org for complete coverage. Kate Keller, the MGA Director of Special Events, sent us another update from across the pond:
May 5
I never fully understood how difficult playing golf under true links conditions could be...until today. The wind knocked over golf bags, blew golf balls off tees, and almost sidelined a few golf administrators! Nevertheless, both teams played very well and impressed us all. The MGA team made a great comeback in the afternoon, winning two of the three matches.
The GUI treated the MGA and Portmarnock officials and staff to a wonderful dinner at Bon Appetite in Malahide. The 7 course tasting menu was exquisite—a truly special evening that we will never forget!
I also had a conversation with MGA team captain Gene Westmoreland on what he thought of the day’s play:
“Despite winds of 40-50 miles per hour, the caliber of play was incredible,” said Gene. “The fourball scores in all matches were unbelievably under par. We're happy to be tied 3-3 going into the singles matches and looking forward to another great day of competition.”
May 5
I never fully understood how difficult playing golf under true links conditions could be...until today. The wind knocked over golf bags, blew golf balls off tees, and almost sidelined a few golf administrators! Nevertheless, both teams played very well and impressed us all. The MGA team made a great comeback in the afternoon, winning two of the three matches.
The GUI treated the MGA and Portmarnock officials and staff to a wonderful dinner at Bon Appetite in Malahide. The 7 course tasting menu was exquisite—a truly special evening that we will never forget!
I also had a conversation with MGA team captain Gene Westmoreland on what he thought of the day’s play:
“Despite winds of 40-50 miles per hour, the caliber of play was incredible,” said Gene. “The fourball scores in all matches were unbelievably under par. We're happy to be tied 3-3 going into the singles matches and looking forward to another great day of competition.”
May 5, 2009
MGA Carey Cup Team Set for Matches
The Carey Cup Matches began Tuesday morning at The Links Portmarnock in Ireland. Visit www.mgagolf.org for live scoring and full coverage. Kate Keller, Director of Special Events at the MGA, sent an update on the Matches:
May 4
Today the lads from the Golfing Union of Ireland arrived and both teams and officials played a practice round at The Links Portmarnock to get ready for the matches. Following golf, there was a cocktail reception and an official dinner to formally introduce the two teams. It was wonderful to see old friends from the GUI again and to meet new friends from both the GUI and The Links Portmarnock. MGA team captain Gene Westmoreland and MGA President Al Small spoke on behalf of the MGA and the Carey Family, expressing the spirit of the matches and the great pride everyone has in representing their respective group. Tomorrow morning the matches begin at "half 8"!
Kate Keller
May 4
Today the lads from the Golfing Union of Ireland arrived and both teams and officials played a practice round at The Links Portmarnock to get ready for the matches. Following golf, there was a cocktail reception and an official dinner to formally introduce the two teams. It was wonderful to see old friends from the GUI again and to meet new friends from both the GUI and The Links Portmarnock. MGA team captain Gene Westmoreland and MGA President Al Small spoke on behalf of the MGA and the Carey Family, expressing the spirit of the matches and the great pride everyone has in representing their respective group. Tomorrow morning the matches begin at "half 8"!
Kate Keller
May 4, 2009
MGA Carey Cup Team Arrives in Ireland
The six-man MGA Carey Cup team traveled to Ireland over the weekend for the 8th Governor Hugh L. Carey Challenge Cup, a Walker Cup-style event against a team from the Golfing Union of Ireland, on May 5 and 6 at the Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links (left). The MGA team is led by 2008 MGA Player of the Year Joe Saladino of Huntington and includes 2008 MGA Mid-Amateur champion Greg Rohlf of Winged Foot, 2007 MGA Mid-Amateur champ Mike Reardon of Tuxedo, and Ed Gibstein of Engineers, who is playing in his ninth MGA international competition. Sixteen-year-old Cameron Wilson, the low amateur at the 2008 Met Open, and 20-year-old Robert Cronheim of Twin Brooks, who finished tied for 9th at the 2008 New Jersey State Open, round out a strong MGA team. MGA Director of Special Events Kate Keller will send updates on all the action from the matches:May 3
WE MADE IT! We arrived this morning at Dublin Airport at 10:15 a.m. Our flight was a little late, but Seamus Smith, the General Secretary of the Golfing Union of Ireland, was there to greet us with our bus. We picked up our rental cars, loaded the bus and checked into the Portmarnock Hotel. The team got a quick bite to eat, then it was off to golf at the K Club, site of the 2006 Ryder Cup. The group reconvened for a lovely dinner at one of the hotel's three restaurants. The weather has been great so far with just a few showers throughout the day, but that's typical here in Ireland!
Kate Keller
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)