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Keep Your Stats To Improve Your Golf Game

2008-02-23T22:39:00.000+07:00

If you are a “golf junkie” like I am, you are always looking for ways to improve your game, since you are reading this you probably fall into that category. One of the easiest ways to improve your golf game is to keep your stats. Let's face it, if you are not trying to improve your game what's the point? I often find myself playing golf with high handicap golfers ( not that there's anything wrong with that), but I find it interesting that a lot of times they don't keep their score. How can you expect to improve your game if you don't keep score? Seniors are notorious for this, but senior golfers are on most occasions on a different agenda, a lot of senior golfers are just out for exercise and commodore, and God willing, I sure hope I make it that far. For the rest of us that are trying to play better golf, keeping stats on your game is a must.Talk to most golfers on tour and they will tell you exactly where they stand in almost every category. The main reason for this is so they know exactly what they need to work on to improve their scoring average. At the 2006 U.S. Open Padraig Harrington finished 1 stroke behind Phil, Monty, and Jim Furyk for third place, the difference in his check was $245,000.00. If he cuts 1 stroke per day off his score he wins by 3 strokes. For the players on tour the meter is always running. Keeping your stats also helps keep your focus throughout the round. Even if I am not playing well on a particular day, I still keep my stats, that helps me from ”bailing” on the round. The best way to keep your stats is during the round, but if you don't like doing it during the round, make sure you do it right after while the round is still fresh in you mind. . Before the round grab an extra scorecard. Here are stats that you should keep:Fairways HitNumber of putts3 putts1 puttsGreens in regulationShort of greenOver greenThere are several golf statistics programs, the one I recommend is IntelliGolf. Once you have compiled your stats for a few rounds you will be surprised to see patterns in your game. Now all you have to do is focus your practice sessions on your weaknesses. If your intention is to play better golf, keeping your stats is where to start.

By Todd C. Robinson [ 22/06/2006 ][ viewed 174 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf Training Aids

2008-02-23T22:35:00.001+07:00

Golf training aids can often give you that little extra help to improve your game of golf. They are available for every aspect of the game - your swing, putting, aim, grip - even measuring the slope of a green. There's quite an array of golf aids out there with varying degrees of usefulness. Here's a small list of available golfing training aids to give you an idea of what to look for, starting with golf aids for the swing. They're not arranged in any order of importance.1. The Swing Hat is composed of a microchip incorporated inside a comfortable golfing cap with earphones. Instant audio feedback is relayed to you about your spine angle, and the tempo of your stroke. It has an adjustable metronome and motion sensor. It is designed to help you improve while you are performing the swing or putt. It's concept is based on the two basic principles of a good golf swing. First, that your spine angle remains constant, and second, using your own personal "tempo", which can be found by experimentation.2. The Swing Analyzer is a portable device packed in a holster. It aims to help you maintain control of lateral rotation, and rotation of your trailing hip. It lights up, vibrates and beeps every time you are not swinging correctly! It can be usd to monitor your putting strokes as well.3. The Swing Glove. This golf training aid helps develop a feel for proper wrist and hinge movement. The glove extends up beyond the wrist and has a swivelling aluminium rivet sewn inside which eliminates wrist cupping and loopy swings. It forces the hand to remain in the correct plane throughout the entire stroke. After several uses one gets the 'feel' of a proper hand and wrist action.4. The Impact Ball again provides its user with the feeling of the best stroke to increase distance, keeping the club face square. Other methods teach you to memorise the mechanics, and this is often an unnecessary distraction. The method takes the focus away from the ball, and concentrates on the body and golf club working together. The large ball-like device, fits between the forearms and prevents those "flying elbows", "ckicken wings", scoops and slices. There are two sizes, one for men, the other for women.5. The Leader Board Swing Trainer lets you feel correct balance, and helps achieve proper timing in the swing. It consists of three pads covered in artificial grass. One is the "hitting pad" on which the ball is placed. The right foot is placed on the second pad which sits atop two rails, and slips backwards and forwards as the stroke is made. The third pad is for the left foot and remains stationary.The device teaches the user to put less weight on the back foot. Drills are suggested which target the components of the swing, and train the body to move in the proper sequence. Power cords are also available for resistance training to develop the muscles used in the swing.6. Putting Greens and Putting Mats come in many shapes and sizes, with slopes and measuring rods. A few incorporate an auto return ball feature and other gizmos. They all help with alignment to give a straight stroke path, and a feel for slopes up or down.7. Putting Glasses have markings on the lenses to align the golf ball, the feet, body posture and also align the track and distance to the hole. The idea is based on right or left eye dominance.8. Forward Facing Putter. The golfer faces the hole with feet pointing to the target, and the putter is held by the side of the golfer and pushed forward. The motion is rather like that of croquet. Apparantly it is easier to read the green, and the stroke is said to be more natural.9. Green Readers locate the slope, and the angle of that slope. Modern instruments provide an instant readout. They give a good indication of how much to adjust your stroke for uphill or downhill putts. It is against the rules to use them in actual competitions, but it is quite legitimate to use them in practice rounds on the same greens before the competition.10. Practice Nets come in all sizes from mini ones to large cages 10' X 10' X 10'. Some have a target at the end, and others have an auto return device for the ball. They need a baffler if regular golf balls are used to practice.11. Speed Sticks help you to hit the ball further by increasing the speed of your swing. The faster you swing the club, the further the ball will go. You simply swing the stick and read the indicator, then set it to zero again.They can be used indoors and outdoors. A "speed gauge", calibrated in miles per hour, tells you what the speed is. No guesswork, and you can track your progress.12. A Thumb Caddie keeps your golf grip consistent throughout your wing to give straighter and longer shots. It keeps your hands in the proper position, eliminating hooks and slices. The device slips onto any club.There are numerous other devices available which should not be too difficult to find, but the old addage, "Practice, practice, practice" still holds good. Golf training aids are after all only "aids".

By [ 25/06/2006 ][ viewed 105 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

4 Ways to Beat the Long Hitter

2008-02-23T22:32:00.000+07:00

1. Hit it straightNothing gets inside a long hitters head faster then a fairway hitting opponent. Chances are the long hitter is not the most accurate driver of the golf ball, keep the heat on by hitting the fairway as much as possible. If you have to use a hybrid club or a iron off the tee to keep the ball in the fairway, the mental edge of hitting the fairway outweighs the loss of distance.2. Hit the greenMost of if not all of the time you will be hitting first, keep the heat on by hitting the green If he knows you are looking at birdie putts all day, it starts to wear on him3. Have a good short gameThe short game is the true equalizer on the golf course. If you have a sharp short game you can compete against any golfer on the planet.4. Ignore his distanceAccept the fact the he hits the ball 50 to 60 yards past you. If you accept the fact that distance doesn't matter, you will have another psychological advantage. What difference does it make if he is hitting a pitching wedge and you are hitting a 7 iron for your second shot? Golf is all about getting the ball in the hole in the fewest strokes, not how you got the ball in the fewest strokes.When you are playing a match against a long hitter, and lets face it, with the technology in golf clubs, golf balls, strength training and nutrition, guys are hitting the ball 300 plus yards on a regular basis. The fact still remains that when you are on the golf course you are walking (or riding) with a bag of tools. It is just a matter of using the right tool for task at hand. Does it really matter what club it takes you to hit a golf ball 150 yards? Weather it's a 6, 7,8 or 9 iron should not matter to you, and your opponents club selection should be the last thing from your mind during a match.The pride of the long hitters game is hitting it long, so the fact that you can compete with him without having to hit the 300 yard drives is already a advantage in your favor if you choose to look at it that way. As a short hitter you should focus on keeping the pressure on as much as possible. The four steps that I have outlined will give you the mental edge that you need to negate the long drives that your opponent is blasting past you.

By Todd C. Robinson [ 30/06/2006 ][ viewed 161 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Utility Golf Carts; The pros and cons of repowering your engines

2008-02-12T23:07:00.000+07:00

These days, maintaining a fleet of golf carts and utility vehicles is more likely to be a matter of topping up battery cells than checking spark plugs and mixing fuel and oil. The majority of golf carts sold in the past decade or so has been electric. Electric golf carts, goes the traditional wisdom, are cheaper to maintain, easier to manage and less trouble in the long run than the models powered by small gas engines. Despite the popularity of electric golf carts, however, most pros agree that there are some jobs that require the power of a good gas engine. It’s not unusual for most course fleets to include at least a few gas golf carts that have been converted to utility vehicles for hauling and other purposes. What do you do when the motor on one of those starts to go? It used to be easy to replace those with a used utility or golf cart when the engine started to go – but not anymore. Used and rebuilt gas-powered golf carts are rare – and replacing them with a new gas-powered cart could run you between $12,000 and $20,000.The solution is simple. Don’t replace – repower. Repowering a utility vehicle that you currently own rather than replacing it with a new vehicle makes sound sense in many ways.1. By repowering a vehicle that you own, you extend the useful life of that vehicle or piece of equipment. There’s no need to scrap a perfectly good piece of equipment that just needs a bit of a boost in the engine department.2. Repowering a vehicle with a new motor can expand its usefulness. You can turn an old golf cart into an all-purpose hauler or plow by fitting it with a more powerful engine.3. You get a new warranty for your new upgraded engine. Depending on the dealer, you may find a Kohler engine repower kit that contains all you need to upgrade and includes a two-year warranty, or a Honda small engine to replace one that’s on its last legs, with a warranty for parts for up to two years.4. A repower Kohler engine or other small engine could save you money on fuel, especially if you upgrade to a cleaner burning fuel. And it will certainly be kinder to the environment.5. Speaking of kinder to the environment, check your state’s grants and proposals web site if you’re considering replacing old motor equipment. Many states offer substantial incentives if you choose to repower a high-emissions piece of equipment with a lower-emissions engine. The same holds true if you choose to refit an engine with after-market parts to reduce its emissions. In some cases, you can even apply for a reimbursement grant that will pay for a repower engine or the refit parts, along with any parts needed to fit the new engine into your tractor or utility vehicle.6. If your new repower engine does need repair, it will be far easier to get parts for a current engine than for an older model. Spare parts support is yet another reason to upgrade your engine with a repower.Repowering is also an excellent way to update your greens-keeping equipment. Little has changed in the business end of mowers, rakers and other turfcare equipment. Why replace a piece of equipment that’s in virtually excellent condition when a repower kit will upgrade it and keep it running in tiptop shape for years to come? Kohler makes repower kits for Toro, Jacobsen, Club Car and Cushman turf care equipment. All of the kits include with everything you need to drop a new engine into your trusted machine and update it to perfect working order.

By Ben Anton [ 30/06/2006 ][ viewed 154 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Proper Putter Length = Fewer Putts!

2008-02-12T23:03:00.000+07:00

All too often, golfers will purchase golf clubs, including putters, straight off the shelves of your local sporting goods store, their local retail outlets, or from a fellow golfer. These purchases are made with no thought as to if that particular putter is even a proper fit to them or their game. Just like a fine suit is tailored to every inch of your body for exact fit your putter and every other club in your bag should be tailored to not only your body but your game as well. Everybody is different and unique.There is no one off the shelf set of clubs designed to fit every single golfer, or even the majority of golfers. If you took the putter measurements of 10 professional golfers, you would find that all 10 had in someway, different measurements including length, lie angle, loft, offset, weight, and design. All blended together with one single purpose in mind: to help the golfer make more putts!Can you imagine the frustration the pros would go through if they had to change their putting stroke to accommodate a different putter every time they decided to change their clubs? Yet 99% of all recreational golfers go about purchasing new clubs this way. They buy a club straight off the rack and then make the adjustments with their body to compensate for this new putter. Lets take a look at the biggest factor in putter fitting and how to correct it:Putter Length The length of your putter has a direct effect on how you set up to your putt. If you are like the majority of recreational golfers, your playing with a putter that’s either too long or too short for your natural stroke. Using a putter that's too long for you will set the ball too far away from your body. This affects how your eyes are positioned over the ball, having your eyes not over the target line, but inside of it. This will also cause your arms and hands to be much closer than you want to your body, not allowing your arms to hang naturally. This causes you to manipulate your hands and arms through the stroke to compensate for the length.Putters that are too short have the opposite effect. The ball is set too close to your body, causing your eyes to be well outside of your target line. Two short of putter will also cause you to have to extend your arms out further from your body causing to have to “reach” out to the ball during the stroke. To find your ideal putter length you can use a very simple method right from your own home. Without a putter in your hands, set up to address over a ball as if you were going to putt. Let your arms hang naturally in front of you as you reach out and grip an imaginary putter in the most comfortable and natural feeling manner. This will set your hands in their most natural position without being influenced by gripping an actual putter.Now without moving your hands or arms from this position, have a friend or spouse place your putter back in your hands. Notice where your hands are on the club NOW compared to where you gripped it in the past. You’ll probably be a bit surprised at where your hands end up on the putter. This is the correct length you should be playing with. Now with a piece of tape, mark one half-inch above the hand closest to your body on the putter grip, if your grip is now lower than before. If your new grip is higher up on the grip wrap the tape ½ in. below the bottom hand. This is how long of a putter you should be playing with.Your local Golf Outlet or Pro Shop can take this information and make the necessary adjustments for you at a very minimal cost.

By Scott Myers [ 06/07/2006 ][ viewed 116 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf Tips, Drive for Show-Putt for the Dough.

2008-02-10T21:24:00.000+07:00

If you are seriously considering lowering your scores, then you must take your putting seriously, as roughly half the strokes you play in a round of Golf are likely to be on the putting green. However good you are at driving, pitching and chipping, if your putting is not up to standard, you will never make the next level. My Dad told me the famous quote when I was probably about 12 or 13, ‘Drive for show putt for dough’, this says it all! That is why it is quite incredible that putting is not often concentrated on.First of all I’d just like to say that there is no one correct putting grip/posture/stroke, there are wide variations, so if your technique is different, don’t worry, some of the top Golfers have very different putting actions e.g. Bernhard Langer, Ben Crenshaw and Tom Watson all have very different techniques. These are basic tips that can be
applied to most techniques to help improve your game.By gregory WADEL [ 23/07/2006 ][ viewed 94 times ]
Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

St Andrews University Honouring Golf Legends

2008-02-10T21:19:00.000+07:00

The University of St Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and third oldest in the English-speaking world, having been founded between 1410 and 1413. The university attracts students from over 100 countries and independent school intake is high, but the university has an active widening participation policy.St Andrews University has a history in honouring sports personalities especially the ones in the world of golf.About a year ago four of the biggest names in world golf have been awarded degrees by Scotland's oldest university to mark the beginning of the 134th Open Championship. Players Nick Faldo, Laura Davies and Peter Thomson have been honoured by St Andrews University, along with BBC commentator Peter Alliss. The golfers joined several other stars of the sport to be honoured by the university, including Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Colin Montgomerie and Seve Ballesteros. Peter Alliss was one of Britain's leading professionals but is now best known as a broadcaster for ABC in the US and the BBC in Europe. Nick Faldo won 30 times on the European Tour, six times on the USPGA Tour and has six majors to his name while Laura Davies was the first woman ever to win all three major golfing tournaments in one year during the 1980s. Peter Thomson, an Australian, is regarded as one of the world's best links golfers.In St Andrews, golf has been played in the town since around 1400 and the Old Course is known worldwide as "the home" of the sport, where the game evolved and where the spirit and traditions of golf have been safeguarded for over six centuries.This year, St Andrews University is honouring another legend of golf: Charlie Sifford, the American golfer who defied racism to become an inspiration for a generation of young players. He will get an honorary degree and become a Doctor of Laws at St Andrews University.Charlie Sifford was the first African-American to challenge the US Professional Golf Association's Caucasian-only clause by joining the professional tour in 1960 and he won the Hartford Open in 1967. In 1969 he took the Los Angeles Open. He played 422 events on the PGA tour and made 399 cuts. Although he was the top black player on tour in the 1960s, he was never invited to play in The Masters. During his career as a golfer he had to face death threats and racial slurs.Dr Brian Lang, principal and vice-chancellor of the St Andrews University said: "Charlie Sifford is a pioneer of the civil rights era whose career exemplifies courage, determination and the will to succeed in the face of substantial prejudice and adversity. He changed the landscape of sport and his story is one which should challenge and inspire us all". He added that "It is absolutely fitting that this man, his unique character, his dignity and his gift to golf should be honoured by St Andrews in St Andrews."

By Alison White [ 24/07/2006 ][ viewed 423 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Balance and Your Golf Game

2008-02-10T21:14:00.000+07:00

Golf professionals all have different opinions on improving your golf game, but most agree on one thing. Unless you keep your balance during the entire swing, you simply cannot have a good stroke. Keeping your balance should be easy right? If you are so tense that you’re crushing your club, tensing your entire body and trying to hit the ball to hard, it’s nearly impossible.As a beginner playing golf, you’re told quite often to not hit the ball to hard. Staying focused and hitting the ball with the center of the club will give you a longer shot that a swing that doesn’t hit at the club’s center, no matter how hard. Establishing your balance frees you to hit the ball correctly.Keeping your head still will allow you focus on the ball. With your eyes on the ball, this creates a foundation for keeping you balanced. It is imperative that you keep your head perfectly still and ensure it doesn’t move during your swing. Movements or distractions that disrupt your balance mean you lose focus on the ball.Keeping your body relaxed is the key. Relaxing your muscles and body will prevent your head from moving during the swing.Use a mirror to watch yourself. This allows you to quickly realize that you need to relax in order to keep your head still while you swing. Since your build and movements are not the same as mine, you’ll have to work out some of the details on your own. Work the most on keeping your head in the same position from start to finish through your swing. Doing this will let you focus on the ball and you will turn your hands at the right time.If you can master keeping your head completely still, you’ll see several problems disappear altogether. Eventually, you will grip your club correctly every time, keeping your balance and keeping your head still, without even thinking.A correctly formed follow through will also mean that you can keep your balance.Concentrating on your balance, and keeping your head still will prevent you from swinging to hard or pulling your club away. The amount of strength you put into your swing will be just right, and you’ll stay relaxed and finish successfully with a smooth swing.Enjoying a great game of golf requires keeping your balance. This isn’t a quick fix, it’ll take time but you should start seeing improvement quickly, but be patient. Focus on maintaining your balance, and your head in one position, and in almost no time at all you will be enjoying such an improvement your friends will be asking for your secrets.

By Jeff Rose Rose [ 01/08/2006 ][ viewed 251 times ]

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Tiger Woods went through the Victory Routine for yet another Major Championship

2008-02-07T23:36:00.000+07:00

When he began his first round in the 135th British Open at Royal Liverpool Tiger Woods looked like he had a plan.Starting with a one-shot advantage and with 14 men within five shots of his lead, Woods semt to be taking them down one by one. Just a month after he missed the first mayor cut of his professional carrer at the U.S Open, Woods won his fourth victory worldwide this year and third on the PGA Tour earned him $1.33 million and pushed him to the top of the money list. He became the first player to win the British Open back to back. Woods became the first player to win this event back-to-back since Tom Watson in 1982-83. He also tied Walter Hagen, who won a British Open on these same storied links in 1924, for second place on the all-time list of major winners. At the age of 30, he's seven away from matching the record 18 won by Jack Nicklaus.Woods showed us a hint of his softer side after his victory in the 2005 Masters. He had choked up during the victory ceremony when he mentioned that Earl Woods, that for the first time, had been too weak to attend. But he quickly recovered that day.This triumph marked the fist time that he couldn't hug his beloved "Pops" or at least phone home after a major victory. Woods raised his arms, bellowed, "Yes," and punched the air. Seconds later, standing in the middle of the green, he buried his head in the shoulder of his caddie, Steve Williams, and began sobbing uncontrollably. It is very understandable knowing that whole bunch of things piled up, dealing with a challenging golf course, holding off a gaggle of prominent players trying to catch him and ultimately prevailing in a major championship all paled in comparison with the sadness he felt knowing he would not be able to tell his father all about it, but we all now he would have been proud, very proud.

By Ally White [ 25/07/2006 ][ viewed 149 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Balance and Your Golf Game

2008-02-07T23:33:00.000+07:00

By Jeff Rose Rose [ 01/08/2006 ][ viewed 247 times ]

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Tiger Woods got his 50th PGA Tour title

2008-02-07T23:29:00.000+07:00

The one and only Tiger Woods won his 50th PGA Tour title last Sunday in the Buick Open, shooting his fourth-straight 6-under 66 for a three-stroke victory over Jim Furyk who finished with a 64.Tiger Woods accomplished a season-low 24 under and made a career-high 28 birdies in the tournament to hold off Furyk for his fourth win of the year. Woods earned $864,000 pushing his tour-leading total to $5,127,563.Woods achieved his most recent victory after an emotional triumph in the British Open and before he shoots for his 12th major at the PGA Championship, where he hopes to close in on the record he longs for: Nicklaus' 18 pro major championships.Tiger Woods, at the age of 30 years old, is the youngest golfer to accomplish 50 PGA Tour Victories after beating an old record established by Nicklaus in 1973 at the age of 33. Woods has made 196 PGA Tour starts as a pro and 210 overall. Nicklaus won his 50th title in his 280th start overall and 262nd as a professional.Woods became the seventh member of the PGA Tour's 50-win club and improved to 21-for-21 when leading by more than one stroke after three rounds. Wood has experienced four triumphs so far this year that have come in 11 events.At Warwick Hills, Tiger Woods made four birdies on the front nine to build on the two-shot lead he had at the start of the 4th round, leaving his rivals hopeless.Furyk briefly tied Woods at the 12th hole, but Tiger approached from 105 yards landing close enough for a tap-in birdie at the 13th. This birdie allowed Woods to take a two-shot lead at the 15th hole leaving Furyk behind and practically assuring Woods the victory of the Buick Open for the second time.Vijay Singh had won the last two Buick Opens. This tournament’s victory would have been his third straight and four overall but instead he closed with a 70 to tie for 11th at 17 under.

By Julie Smith [ 08/08/2006 ][ viewed 230 times ]

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Ireland Golf Courses

2008-02-04T22:53:00.000+07:00

In Ireland golf courses abound, both links and parklands varieties, about 410 in total, and this is a good number compared to the population of almost 6 million (4 million people in the Republic of Ireland, and 1.8 million in Northern Ireland). Ireland is one of the world's great venues for a dream golfing holiday.Links golf courses are usually found around the coastline where they've been scratched out of the abundant sand dunes, where the wind often challenges players, especially on the west Atlantic Coast side of the island. Their designers have also used the proximity of water to make the game on these courses more interesting. One of the most famous links courses is the Ballybunion Old Course, whose contures and sea breazes challenge every player.Parkland golf courses are mainly inland amongst the naturally hilly landscape where woodlands provide tree-lined fairways, which are used to advantage by their designers to test the competence of even the best of the pros. A notable parkland's course is the K Club just outside Dublin, which has been chosen to hold the Ryder Cup in September 2006. The Slieve Russell course in the Irish midlands is also another fine example. Seven of Ireland golf courses are included in a list of the best 100 golf courses worldwide (Golf Digest)They are:In Northern Ireland: Royal Portrush Golf Club (Dunluce) and the Royal County Down In the Irish Republic: the "Old" club of Ballybunion (in the 1st ten world ranking), Lahinch, Portmarnock, The European Club and Waterville.GENERAL INFORMATION: Golf high season: June, July, AugustMid season: May, September, OctoberLow season: November through to AprilBook tee times well in advance of your vacation. About 20% of Ireland golf courses have their own website on which you can make a booking. Visit the author's website to see a list of them. Take care of how you dress. You may have difficulty at some venues if you do not take notice of the following advice regarding clothing. Wear proper shirts with sleeves and collars, golf shoes and sports socks, trousers or smart, tailored shorts. Clothes NOT TO WEAR include - denims, short shorts, trainer shoes or runners, track suits, sweaters without shirts, clothing with slogans.Always be at the course well before your tee time. Most courses allow spikes - some encourage their use in wet weather. Many links courses do not allow motorised golf buggies because of the hilly terrain.Take your handicap certificate with you as many golf courses will insist on visualising it. The handicap limit will usually be 28 for men, and 36 for women.If you are taking your own golf clubs with you, you'll need to acquire a very strong golf bag to protect them during manhandling by luggage personnel. Some find an easier solution is to hire golfing equipment in Ireland, in which case this should be done at the earliest time, when booking tee times.You'll find a friendly welcome not only from the Irish golfing community, but also from the population in general. Ireland has now become a very popular venue for a stimulating golfing vacation.

By [ 17/08/2006 ][ viewed 99 times ]

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Golf Comfort Zones - They're sabotaging your scores!

2008-02-04T22:37:00.001+07:00

We all have what I call an inner game thermostat. It governs your inner game temperature, so to speak. Your comfort zone is like a climate controlled room. If it gets too cool then it's time to heat up. If it gets too hot the air conditioner turns on to cool things down.Your inner thermostat does exactly what it is preprogrammed to do - bring your game back to *normal*! How? By producing what appears to be the "wrong swing at the wrong time". Yet in reality it is actually the "right swing at the right time!" Your inner game thermostat calmly runs beneath your conscious awareness. Perfectly controlling your game.The same goes for when you are approaching your personal low score. Yet there's something funny about the settings on the low side of our comfort zone... The thermostat seems to kick in with even more certainty!(Have you ever noticed that even though your scores might be climbing and you are not happy about it, it feels easier and somehow more acceptable than going really low? I'm not saying you don't want to go low. I'm saying that you are *familiar* with shooting higher scores because you've done this more often than shoot really low scores.)As you get nearer to breaking your personal best it kicks on and returns your game to "normal". How? You card a couple bogies in a row and guess what? You magically shoot within the range of scoring your unconscious has hardwired for you! Your comfort zone is maintained*...The strange thing is there's nothing comfortable about it at all! We are comfortable because of only one thing: we have made it a habit. Comfort zones are a long and slow death to any hopes you have of reaching your potential. I don't care what kind of goal setting plan, or mental game worksheet you follow or how much you practice. Your internal setting for what you "believe" about your game is what calls the shots. Pun fully intended. :-)There are specific strategies for creating new settings on your inner game thermostat. Nothing complicated yet they are extremely powerful and effective. But hey, only you know how much you want to break out of your comfort zone....it's kind of like the proverbial frog in a pot of water. Set the frog in a pot of water and slowly bring it to a boil and the frog stays there because it is comfortable along the way...Reach the next level in your game and make the changes you want now. After all, the water is slowly coming to a boil...

By Wade Pearse [ 25/08/2006 ][ viewed 173 times ]

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Do You Always Have to Buy from the Ladies' Golf Section?

2008-02-04T22:26:00.000+07:00

When you’re growing up as a young female golfer, it’s exciting to go into the sports store or browse on the Internet and find the products and accessories that are just right for a girl’s game.But as you grow up and your game gets better, you start to realize that you might have to start crossing the aisle and sneaking into the men’s section. Fortunately, manufacturers are starting to recognize that ladies golf is a profitable niche market that they need to cater to – delivering the same high quality products and options that men have.Customizing Your Golf ClubsFor a long time, women with long arms - or who were taller than the average female- had to invest in men’s golf clubs, so that when they addressed the ball, they didn’t have to bend their knees a little extra in order to make contact with it.But now many manufacturers are providing golf items for all women. Now, instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, they’re selling petit, regular, tall, and left-handed clubs for lad golfers.Still, there might be a time when you’re at the course or the driving range and you swing a club that someone (male) in your group let you use for a shot. You loved it – but it’s a guy’s club – can you still use it?Of course you can. Don’t feel that your set of clubs have to all be from one manufacturer. Don’t be afraid to break up the set. You might have a men’s driver or men’s 5-iron that you want. There’s no set rule that says your set has to stay together. That’s what eBay is for. If you have a club you lo longer use, sell it or trade it in for something you like better.You may even want to customize your clubs as your game improves – golf shops can create the perfect shaft, grip and head that best fits your height, power and preferences.Accessorizing Your Game Regardless of GenderWhen you start knowing what you really want from your golf game, you’ll realize that comfort and performance outweigh visual appeal. You might go shopping for a good golf shoe and find that the men’s shoes offer more of what you want to walk an 18-hole course in order to come home without four blisters on your feet. Really, the only reason to prefer women’s golf accessories over the men’s is the fashion superiority and appeal they offer. Like top designers, golf manufacturers have recognized that some women want to look stylish on the links – whether it’s the Italian leather golf bag in camel or the Malibu Slingback Sandal that can be used both on and off the course.Some items, like the slingback sandal, will only be offered in the women’s section. And there are some accessories that will be reserved for the men, such as a money clip for those who carry their cash outside of a traditional wallet. While it’s hard to imagine that a man would prefer a slingback sandal, a woman who walks the course may not want to carry her large, bulky Louis Vuitton pocketbook in her bag. Admit it – some women’s purses weigh a ton and who wants to carry that extra load on the links? She might want to slip a money clip on the counter for those days when she doesn’t use a cart. That way, she has her cash for clubhouse refreshments or the round of golf (or a bet or two) but she doesn’t have to lug around anything unnecessary.Women today are edging their way into men’s professional tournaments. It’s safe to say the products that come out on the marketplace will allow women every advantage that men have on the course – whether it’s the power of a new hybrid club or the accessories that make the game of golf easier or more fun to enjoy.If you find yourself eyeballing an item that’s considered “for men only” in the golf world, break the rules and get it anyway. You’ll be alerting the golfing industry that they need to cater to the needs of ladies who might also want the same item on the women’s side of the aisel.

By Jerry Strain [ 27/08/2006 ][ viewed 114 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Do You Always Have to Buy from the Ladies' Golf Section?

2008-02-03T00:02:00.000+07:00

By Jerry Strain [ 27/08/2006 ][ viewed 111 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Proper Body Alignment and Golf

2008-02-02T23:59:00.000+07:00

With regards to scoring, putting is the most significant aspect of the game. It represents approximately 40 to 50 percent of your score. Studies have shown that just about 10 percent improvement in putting has greater impact on the score than a 10 percent improvement in any part of the game. You cannot always rely on your swing to conquer more greens in regulation. Hence, good putting is absolutely essential to make up for the losses. The most crucial aspect of putting is proper body alignment. If you wish to make consistent putts, your body should be aligned accurately along the correct line. Take the analogy of driving a car with misaligned tires. The car will either pull to the left or the right. It will never move long the straight line. Similarly, in putting, if you align your body too far right or left of the ‘ball to pin’ line, you will surely miss the putt.A majority of golfers misalign as well as under-read their putts. Good players use as many as 32 putts out of the allotted 36 putts per round. Hence, don’t feel bad if your putting stroke is not perfect. With lots of practice and proper body alignment, you can also improve your putting. Nowadays, a wide assortment of putting aids are available that can help you to improve your alignment. A putter is one such putting aid that can help you with your alignment. There are hundreds of different models out there, and you can purchase any one of them that is well-balanced and feels good. With the help of the putter, you can practice putting right in the comfort of your home. Even top professional golfers practice putting for innumerable hours on their carpets either to improve or maintain their putting strokes. Hence, carpet practice and proper body alignment will certainly improve your putting stroke too.

By [ 27/08/2006 ][ viewed 92 times ]

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Golf Adventures

2008-02-01T22:44:00.000+07:00

Las Vegas might be a city of glitz and glamour but it is also a popular golf destination. With its extensive golf courses, golf resorts and one-of-a-kind packages, this city is where it all happens. There are several providers that offer exciting golf packages in Las Vegas, but none like www.lasvegasgolfadventures.com. Whether you come for the experience or for the game, this is something to watch out for.Golf is a game you can thoroughly enjoy. After you play your eighteen hole game, you can walk over to the ‘ninetieth hole’ to take a break. Exciting water hazards and bunkers will add to the excitement. But to enjoy all this, you will probably require a golf guide. Choose someone who not only knows the city but also the game. This is a vital element that can add value to your golf adventure.Las Vegas Golf Adventures offers affordable golf packages that will be the highlight of your vacation. The expert golf professionals will advise you on different avenues of the sport that you can play here. Not only do they take care of individual golfers but groups and corporate golf tournaments. Their end-to-end services include a plethora of gold entertainment. Your golf trip can take you from deserts to lakes with panoramic backgrounds to motivate you to play at your best.These golf trip providers will make all the arrangements to ensure that your trip is a memorable one. They offer excellent service by knowledgeable staff. That makes all the difference. If you are looking for accommodation then Las Vegas Golf Adventures can also arrange good quality rooms at affordable hotels. You can also enjoy your lucky streak at the nearby casinos. Combining a bit of gambling to your golf vacation can be lots of fun. These partner hotels offer world-class facilities and excellent cuisine. It will surely be a pleasure staying at the Las Vegas hotels.To play your game of golf you can choose from a wide selection of lush green golf courses. From the Aliante Golf Club and Reflection Bay Golf Club to TPC Canyons and Bear’s Best Golf Course, your choice can only be the right one. These renowned architect-designed courses are breathtaking especially to the avid golfer.There are several packages that are offered to golfers. You can choose one that suits your schedule and liking. Some packages are for three nights, others for four nights. Some offer three rounds and others four rounds. You can go online to check out the complete details and pricing on each. Further, the online booking facility makes this experience so much faster and easier. An online booking form will allow you to plan your golf vacation down to the very last detail.

By [ 29/08/2006 ][ viewed 97 times ]

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Winning is a habit, unfortunately so is losing...

2008-02-01T22:38:00.000+07:00

What is the difference between the winner and the loser? A winner says "Of course I can do it! I've practiced it mentally a hundred times." While the loser says, "How can you expect me to do that? I don't know how!" The power of a focused mind is hard to overstate. In every area of life we read stories of almost miraculous results that came from applying specific visualizations.Your mind is a creature of habit. It loves routine. Now you might not enjoy routines but your mind certainly does! If you want to make real change in your game it will begin in your mind. Skiers, gymnasts, olympic athletes, business people, public speakers, and golfers all use visualization to improve performance. Do you? It is almost impossible to find a top level athlete who doesn't use peformance enhancing mental imagery strategies.Along with your visualization program, which can be as simple as 5 minutes a day before sleeping, you'll also want to employ your best self talk. Your internal dialogue must support your goals. Matching your self talk with focused mental imagery exercises will transform your game faster than every other method combined.Years ago in the olympics the cameras awaited a certain high jumper to begin his approach toward the bars and make his jump. Yet they waited and waited. The commentators did their best to fill the seemingly dead air. Why was he taking so long? We would learn later exactly what the reason was.The man's name was Dick Fosbury. He stood staring at the high jump and gently rocked back and forth on his feet. This motion simulated the initial move he would make to begin his run. A full 4 minutes passed before he began his jump! He did not take a single step toward his jump until he had completely rehearsed every nuance of the jump in his mind's eye.Talk about focus! Imagine all those cameras, spectators and millions watching on TV. That single jump, which won him the Gold Medal, revolutionized high jumping forever. Every other jumper began to copy the famous Fosbury Flop. Prior to this all he received was ridicule and doubt in his ability to compete with that "silly" technique.Winning is all in your mind. Or should I say it's all in your mind's eye...We all have an inner power that can be tapped and utilized in any way we choose. It requires some simple guidance and basic mental repetition. The same way you acquire any habit. The difference between being a winner and a loser is so small it's almost scary. Yet that "difference" can be tilted in your favor by a strategic use of your mind and eveloping a strong mental game.Your golf game will continue to move to higher levels and all the while your improvements will feel natural. You gain that much saught after skill of "staying out of your own way." Your physical skills will improve along with your emotional balance and mental focus when you practice a few simple visualization techniques.Whether it's a key match or tournament you're playing in or simply a friendly round with colleagues or friends, visualiztion will improve your game, relax your mind and enhance your satisfaction. There are few things in life as powerful as a well managed mind. Use it to your your advantage or it will continue to use you!The mind is a great servant but a poor master. You are either the master of your mind or a slave to its acquired habits. Either way it is all about choice. What do you choose?

By Wade Pearse [ 21/09/2006 ][ viewed 83 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

What is the Worst Lie in Golf?

2008-02-01T22:33:00.000+07:00

What is the Worst “Lie” in Golf?Let us begin with a few myth busters, shall we.Myths -1) If you have a perfect golf swing you'll have a perfect game.2) You can buy a better game3) Technology has lowered golfers scoresMost every golfer subscribes to these beliefs in one way or another. The entire golf instruction, training aid, and golf club making market bear this out. Golf magazines, tv shows, and article after article offer tips, fixes, cures and virtually every imaginable training aid conceivable to craft the perfect swing. All with the pretense of helping you play better golf.Well has it worked? Let's take a look...In 1978 75% of all golfers never broke 90 - so barely 25% ever shot in the 80's.In 2004, a full 26 years later, after the advent of 460CC drivers with 45" multi-kick point shafts, cavity back irons, balls that prevent hooks and slices, and world class instruction from the smartest minds in the buz, that number has been increased by a wopping 3%!Now a full 28% of all golfers have broken 90. But hey, let's cut the industry some slack, there's only been 90+ billion spent on golf equipment over that time! That doesn't include lessons or training aids! All that technology and collective wisdom and this is how far we've come...impressive, huh.Seriously, any other business that produced numbers like these for their customers would be out of business. But the golfing public has an insatiable appetite that an ever growing horde of manufacturers and marketers are more than willing to feed.Ok, do you want to pay me now or later for the moral booster? What? This doesn't get you pumped about your prospects of dropping your handicap by 10 strokes by buying the next training aid?You mean to tell me you're not going to do that $2,500 re-shafting, ball changing, loft angle adjusting, launch angle increasing, club-fitting session you had booked for next Saturday? Hmmm, was it something I said?As golfers we are bombarded with instruction tips, training options, and product offerings that'll have your head spinning faster than Paris Hilton after swizzeling a half dozen Crantini's.Where's the moral you ask?So where's the moral of this myth busting story? Do we all just give up trying to improve? Absolutely not. We all need to fulfill that important human craving of getting better at what we love. Yet where we place our attention to achieve this goal is what has to change. Our core beliefs about what causes improvement should be based on reality, not myths. They should empower us, not encourage wishful thinking and needlessly empty our wallets."So if it isn't gear that makes us better maybe it's lessons," did I hear you say? Certainly lessons are an asset and obviously accelerate your skill development yet they're not absolutely essential either. Ask Lee Trevino, Jim Furyk, Chris Dimarco and countless others who are self taught. And I think we can all agree that there isn't much "pretty" about any of their swings.Do you think any of them were intent on crafting the perfect swing? Yet if we look at things from a different perspective maybe they do have perfect swings. Why? Because they work! Golf ain't a beauty contest.In the final analysis there is only one area that promotes the quickest and most lasting change in any golfers game. And what's interesting about it is this is the only area that doesn't cost a penny to use, yet almost no-one uses it.That area is the often quoted 6 inches between your ears! Your mind. The mental game. Using your mind in a strategic, methodical and focused way is the surest method of lowering your scores. Period.If you want to run out and spend $500 on a new driver and another $1000 or more on irons to make you play better, feel free. You might be that one in a million that changes the statistics. I realize we'll all buy nice gear once in a while but we can't buy it with a belief that this will seriously lower our scores.Needless to say, this article won't be sponsored by Taylor Made or Nike any time soon. I don't help sell much golf equipment! No, my approach to lowering your handicap, improving your swing, and increasing your satisfaction leans towards inner change before outer gains.True improvement only begins when we first assess where we are in relation to our goal. Then we must take an inventory of all the things that have actually produced measurable results. Which means no denial! We can't hope to move our game to the next level by hanging on to a lie, now can we? If you do then that's what I call a real "hanging lie". And that is the worst lie in golf. Each and every one of us has the innate ability to tap our own potential and transform any part of our lives, including golf. We just require the right road map and a good compass to keep us on target.It's time to wake up and smell the napalm or the myths that cloud our brains will keep us believing we can buy a better game.

By Wade Pearse [ 21/09/2006 ][ viewed 103 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

#1 Way to Deal with Nerves in Golf

2008-01-31T21:54:00.000+07:00

If you've golfed competitively you've no doubt felt nerves affect your game! When I say competitively I don't just mean competing on a professional or mini-tour. If you have a $5 bet with a colleague or friend it's still competitive! Whether you're a 27 handicap or scratch you are likely to feel at least some nerves during your round.For many people it doesn't even have to involve competiton at all. Just stepping to the first tee can cause a serious case of nerves. Maybe it's when you must make a put to tie a hole or to win on the 18th green. If you're standing on the 17th hole in a match and you're 1 down then you have to deliver. Period. If you can't channel your nerves you had better hope that swing you've been grooving for the past 6 months holds up now!Regardless of skill level and/or on course scenario there will be times when you'll require some way to calm your nerves so they don't adversely affect your stroke/swing.Have you made any conscious attempts to reduce your experience of nerves in your game? What did you try? What have been your results? Did they work and if so was it immediate? Or did you, like most every golfer alive, simply fill your head full of self talk saying things like, "ok, calm down. Just breathe...there's nothing to be nervous about...hey, maybe he'll miss his putt....yeah...miss-miss-miss!..."Does this sound familiar?! Have you noticed that this doesn't really do all that much to reduce your nervousness? Unless of course your playing partner does miss the putt!Seriously though, you must have a means of noticing the onset of nerves and a method for not only calming them but using them to your advantage. How does that sound?While I can't go into detail on how to transform nerves into actually playing your best golf under pressure I will provide a few excellent methods you can use right away. They will improve your performance.Breath is a very powerful state enhancer. What I mean is that your breathing provides deep physiological links to your internal states. So when you're nervous the last thing you want to do is take short, shallow breaths. Quick breaths actually instruct the brain to respond in a "fight or flight" manner. The brain is hardwired to respond to fast breathing by being on the lookout for an emergency. Not the most effective place from which to make a smooth putting stroke on that 10 footer for par now is it?!Tip #11) While waiting for your turn to hit stand aside and follow this breathing pattern: Inhale - 4 countsHold - 5 countsExhale - 6 countsLong, deep, slow breaths. This process interupts the breath influenced aspect of your state and directly instructs the brain to become still. Another adverse affect of nerves is a noticeable loss of feel in your hands. Sometimes you may even wonder if you're even holding the club!Tip #22) Simply hold a golf ball in your hands. Now squeeze it gently and hold for a few seconds. Then release. Then squeeze once again but this time do so very firmly and hold for a couple seconds then release. Roll the ball around in your hand and make a note of how the dimples feel. Repeat this sequence 2 or 3 times and you will immediately increase the feel in your hands. Nervousness and shallow breathing directs extra blood to the brain, diverting it from your extremities. By doing applying this simple technique blood will flow back into your hands and improve your feel.These 2 exercises work quickly. Self talk alone can't compete with the psycho-physiological intensity of nervousness. Try them and let me know how well they worked?!What if there was a way to transform nervousness into a calm, inner confidence? To actually have the onset of nerves "trigger" an inner calm. How powerful would that be in improving your performance? I will show you how to achieve this.

By Wade Pearse [ 27/09/2006 ][ viewed 103 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Putting-The Golf Tip to Sinking That Putt Every Single Time

2008-01-31T21:49:00.000+07:00

Do You Want to Sink That Putt Every Single Time? The obvious answer is yes, so what happens? The last time you played everything was the same, you always use the same glove, shoes and putter, your feeling confident as usual, but last time you made the shot easily. Today, you can't find the cup to save your life.Are the powers to be against you? Is putting a game of chance, lucky one day and not the next? It may seem that way some days, but let’s see if we can improve the odds and ensure your putting success.If you are having putting problems, could your solution be as simple as one little suggestion, RELAX. Is tension your real enemy? Well, let’s see. Try this exercise and compare the results. When you are having trouble sinking that putt I want you to tense up the muscles in you body, especially tighten up the ones you are going to use. In this awkward state try to make the shot. Absolute failure, right? Yet is that not the way we usually tackle something we are having trouble with, with brute force and anxiety, dreading the whole experience, especially if we know, we just can’t do it?If on the other hand, you approach putting as being fun, making it an enjoyable game, you will preform at your best. Now, relax, breath deeply. You will have more success at learning and becoming proficient at putting if you enjoy the experience, make it fun. When you are in a relaxed state you remember what you have just learned and your body works with you instead of against you.So the next time you miss an easy putt, and become tense do not try even harder. The more tense you become, the more freedom you lose and your putting suffers. Instead of getting upset at yourself, relax. Your accuracy will improve if you keep your muscles relaxed.You can change your putter, shoes, gloves, everything about your putting even coping the pros, but, nothing will improve your golf game as much as staying relaxed. Your imagination is a powerful tool so use it. While your waiting your turn, take a couple of deep breaths, see yourself in your minds eye, sinking that shot.If you stay relaxed your putting will improve, your confidence will rise, and you’ll have a great golf experience. So it really is your fault. It is not the course, your equipment or you partner. Sinking that putt every single time depends on you.For all those rainy days that keep you off the green or you just can not find the time to drive all the way out to the golf course, but really want to squeeze in a fast game, just play a round of virtual reality golf on your computer.Computer video golf games, use the same rules and regulations as real-life golf. Swinging, hitting, wind speed and terrain are identical to playing real golf.

By [ 03/10/2006 ][ viewed 69 times ]

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The Power Of Search - The Benefits Of Increasing Your Golf Courses Internet Presence

2008-01-31T21:44:00.000+07:00

Numbers don’t lie. During the month of June there were over 50,000 searches of the term “public golf courses” on the big three search engines (Google, Yahoo!, MSN.com). This is a very important fact if you are a golf course operator and are in charge of developing and driving revenue to your facility. Unfortunately many course operators are not aware of or do not take advantage of this potential revenue source that is waiting to be tapped. By using the industry standard that the average group of golfers is three players you can expand that number of 50,000 to 150,000 potential green fees out there just searching for the right course to play. Now if you calculate in an average green fee of $50.00 that means that the internet, on any given month is home to $6.5 million dollars in revenue. What makes this huge number even more attractive is that it is derived from a complete and perfect target market. Other forms of advertising such as magazines and newspapers that offer up huge circulation numbers to attract advertisers can not provide this level of targeting. For instance, you can run an ad in a metropolitan newspaper that may claim a circulation of over 500,000 but how many people are actually going to see your add. First you need to hope that the person reading the newspaper opens up the section where you add is located. Second if the person does open that section you need to hope that they turn to the right page. Third you need to hope that while they are looking at the page the person actually takes their eyes away from what they are reading to even look at your courses advertisement. The odds of your advertisement being seeing unfortunately are not in your favor, and to make matters worse for the advertiser who is to say that the person who does beat the odds and sees your ad is even a golfer. By using these traditional forms of advertising the golf course operator is hoping to distract the potential customer from what they are doing with an advertisement that they are not even looking for. Good Luck.Search engine driven advertising on the other hand provides the exact opposite scenario. Of the 50,000 people who typed in the search term “public golf courses” it is fairly safe to assume that the majority of them are golfers or at the very least interested in golf. If your golf course is focusing a portion of your advertising budget to search engine marketing what offers even greater hope that you will realize a nice return on your advertising investment is that your potential customer is actually seeking out your ad, unlike those readers of magazines and newspapers who have to be distracted from what they are actually looking for. Very few people actually pick up the local newspaper when looking for a golf course to play, while golfers online are typing in search terms like “public golf courses” because that is exactly what they are looking for, public golf courses to play. Could you ask for a more targeted market? Golf Courses would all be better served if they would start to focus a greater chunk of their advertising budgets towards building a significant presence on the internet.

By [ 15/10/2006 ][ viewed 71 times ]

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Golf : Grieving golf hero Clarke 'backs out' of race for BBC sports award

2008-01-30T23:21:00.000+07:00

BOOKMAKERS have suspended betting on the golfer Darren Clarke being voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year, amid rumours that the Ryder Cup hero has ruled himself out of the running. The popular, cigar-chomping Northern Irishman, whose wife, Heather, lost her battle with cancer only six weeks before he played a starring role in Europe's Ryder Cup victory, had been quoted at odds of 2/5 to win the coveted prize. But the bookmaker William Hill acted after Eamonn Holmes said on his Radio 5 Live show on Saturday that he had heard Clarke was to rule himself out of the competition. It is thought Clarke is thought to be reluctant to have his personal grief put under the spotlight again by appearing on television. He said only decided to compete in the Ryder Cup because he felt it was what his wife would have wanted. William Hill feared his rumoured withdrawal would prompt a rush of money on other hopefuls, such as Andy Murray and Zara Phillips, leaving it facing heavy losses. A spokesman for William Hill said: "Darren had been a very hot favourite with us and that is shown by the money that punters have had on him. "Any bets already placed on Darren will stand, but from now on, we are betting without him until and unless the situation is resolved for sure one way or the other." The spokesman went on: "If it's right he has withdrawn, it will be unprecedented in the history of the show, but it goes to show the man's character. "He is loved by the public, who have shown tremendous warmth towards him after all he has been through this year. I'm sure that, although he may pick up the Team of the Year award, he would rather win the big prize after winning a major." According to the Hill's spokesman, the rumours that Clarke would pull out of the running for the BBC award started as soon as the European side beat the United States at the K Club in County Kildare, Ireland, last month. He said: "We have to react to these rumours quickly or we might find ourselves in a position where we take a financial hit." No further wagers on Clarke would be accepted - unless the golfer confirmed he would be prepared to accept the award. No-one from Clarke's management company, ISM, was available for comment last night. But a spokeswoman for the BBC said that, as far as the corporation was concerned, Clarke was still a contender for Sports Personality. She went on: "We are aware of the 5 Live programme. However, we haven't been told that Darren is pulling out, so we can't confirm it. Until we hear otherwise, he will continue to be in the running." Clarke, 38, became a sporting hero after he agreed to play in the Ryder Cup despite having lost his wife so recently. His outstanding performance helped seal Europe's third successive victory and he fought back the tears as Ian Woosnam, the team captain, hugged him at the end. The team wore pink blazers, the symbol of the breast cancer, for the awards ceremony, in honour of Heather.Zara Phillips is now odds-on favourite to follow in her mother's footstepsZARA Phillips, has taken over as favourite, at 8/11, to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award after William Hill suspended bets on golfer Darren Clarke. Phillips, 25, became the first Briton to win the World Equestrian Championships in 25 years when she took gold in Germany in August. Her mother, the Princess Royal, an Olympic-standard rider, won the BBC award in 1971. The Welsh boxer Joe Calzaghe, the world super middleweight champion, is second favourite at 7/2. But he may have dented his chances when he said he didn't expect to win - because Britain prefers losers to winners. The performances of Scottish tennis sensation Andy Murray, 19, including a straight-sets victory in the United States over the world No 1 Roger Federer, have put him at 8/1 to win. The spin bowler Monty Panesar, 24, the hero of England's win over Pakistan in August, is at 10/1. The golfer Paul Casey stands at 14/1, ahead of three people on 16/1 - the Welsh cyclist Nicole Cooke, 23, who won the women's Tour de France, England's Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff and the comedian David Walliams, who swam the English Channel this year. Further down the betting are the boxer Ricky Hatton, the Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard and cricketers Steve Harmison and Kevin Pietersen

By Amardeep Singh [ 16/10/2006 ][ viewed 89 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Preshot Visualization Routine

2008-01-30T23:19:00.000+07:00

A Preshot Visualization Routine is an essential component to making a good swing. Not integrating a visualization process into your preshot routine leaves your mind unfocused and open to many lapses of attention. Not what you want before making your swing.What do you do while you prepare to shoot? Does your preshot routine include some form of visualization? Or do you simply walk right into your setup and swing away? For the sake of our discussion let's assume you have some form of a preshot routine.Let's explore how to add an effective visualization process into your preshot routine.Prior to every shot your preshot routine sets the stage for you to make your best swing. The consistency of it is key. When you have a simple visualization stratgey to center and focus your mind you will play far better golf.The visualization component is done at the beginning of your routine. Virtually every top player uses their mind properly in their preshot routine and starts the entire process with some form of visualization. The first part of your preshot visualization routine will be to stand behind the ball, looking toward your target. Your target might be the center of the fairway, the right half of the green or the left edge of the cup. Be clear on your outcome/target before stepping into the physical aspect of your pre-shot routine.Literally "see" the ball flight or pace of the putt as it enters the hole. When teeing off with driver I encourage all of my clients to be as focused here as you would when putting. This narrowing of attention taps your subconscious mind and provides it with clear instructions of what you want to accomplish.Stand behind your ball and look at your ball momentarily. Then trace an imaginary ball flight from the ball, as if you had just hit it, through the sky. Watch it travel on your desired trajectory right to your target. This only takes a couple seconds yet these are critical seconds!Now add one more element to the process. Feel what you are seeing. I expanded on this in the last issue of the mental game mastery ezine. (learn more below) True and effective visualization involves feeling with your mind's eye, not simply seeing. If you are only using visualization as a method of seeing your shot you are leaving half your cards on the table!Once you have completed this simple process you can now naturally continue the rest of your preshot routine. Step into address and finish it as usual.There are countless studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of strategically applied visualization. By channeling your mind toward inner game processes and beginning your preshot routine this way, your mind/body relationship is positively influenced. With practice your swing will begin to mirror what you are seeing in your mind's eye. There are several other elements you can include into your preshot visualization routine these will get you started in the right direction and "keep you on target."

By Wade Pearse [ 18/10/2006 ][ viewed 88 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Over The Hill Golfers Get More Roll

2008-01-30T23:17:00.000+07:00

Over a decade has passed since I crested the hill of age continuum and yet it just dawned on me last year at 53, I should be getting more roll out of my drives than I did before! Seriously I'm no physicists but even I know that golf balls roll further down hill. And I'm definitely over the Hill!Despite my convoluted theory, the evidence shows that I'm hitting the golf ball shorter and shorter each year. Not only that but I'm twice as pooped after each round! None of this seems fair...not when you consider the thousands of rounds played, hours practiced and dollars spent on golf equipment and golf lessons. All for what? Not since I fired my last financial advisor had I seen and ROI this bad.In a last ditch effort to salvage my dying personal golf corporation, last spring I made a rather large investment in a robotic massage chair. Passing through the mall after a particularly brutal round of golf I popped in to a novelty store in search of a gift for a nephew. Instead of a present for him I ended up taking a nap in the stores demo shiatsu massage chair!Needless to say the nap didn't last long as I was awoken by a pimply sales kid who wanted to tell me all about the model I was sitting and the benefits of massage chairs in general. In my foggy, have asleep state, I politely mumbled something about just looking and stumbled out of the store.It didn't dawn on me until the next morning what an impact that brief encounter with the massage chair had. For the first time in years I awoke without a stiff back!A little research online and I found that most experts agree that a good massage can help increase your flexibility, prevent injuries and help you recover faster from a round of golf. Experts aside, I couldn't argue with the way I felt, and I didn't want to.So I did indeed end up purchasing a massage chair, but not that pimply mall sales kid's model. By doing some massage chair comparison online I found a whole world of superior products. Now I enjoy a massage in the comfort of my living room every morning and every night.Despite dreams of rewinding my golf game 20 years not coming true, I can say this for sure, now that I regularly use my massage chair I feel a whole heck of a lot better after a round of golf than I did before. I walk on to the first tee with a loose back from my morning massage and that helps to keep me from aggravating my muscles during the round.I may still be missing out on that extra roll on my drives from golfing over the hill, but at least the enjoyment is back! And that's what really matters.

By [ 26/10/2006 ][ viewed 69 times ]

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Golf Swing Training Aid: Power, Distance and Accuracy

2008-01-29T21:57:00.000+07:00

The number of golf swing training aids on today’s market is truly mind-boggling. Most of these focus on the swing as this is the fundamental technique you have to master to play golf well. However, without a good grip and feel for the club, developing your swing will be a non-starter. We’re going to take a look at three such aids that promise to improve you grip, eliminate hooks and slices, and so help develop your overall control over your swing.The Master GrooverThe first under the spotlight is the Patent Master Groover Method’s Double Guidance aid, which aims to help sensitize you to the feel of your swing so you can adjust your swing to achieve optimal performance. Of course, to achieve such sensitivity requires a lot of practice, but the rewards are high: power, timing, accuracy and an increase in the distance of your drives. Most importantly, it helps you to become consistent on the course.Touchy Feely GolfingIt is believed that only 2% actually improve their golf swing by using instructional videos, DVDs and books. However, Master Groover guarantees to improve your golf swing permanently provided you put in at least 30 hours of use. This golf swing training aid focuses on your sense of touch, teaching you to develop a feel for your club and your swing. The idea, as the name suggests, is to program your body to get into the groove of producing the optimal swing time and again. The Thumb CaddyThe second of the golf swing training aids we’re going to take a look at is the Thumb Caddy, which is endorsed by Brad Faxon. In spite of its diminutive proportions, Mr Fallon claims this thumb grip does more to develop your game than any other golf swing training aid. The thumb caddy keeps your hands together in the right position on the club right through the golf swing. This should be enough to eliminate hooks and slices. As a result, you will be able to hit straighter and farther, and the extra control you develop will also improve your short game. You get enhanced accuracy and consistency for around $26 plus a lot of training.The AccuHitThe third golf swing training aid on our list is called the AccuHit. This is a patented grip enhancing device that works on every make of club, including drivers and irons. AccuHit has been designed to slip onto the grip of the golf club and helps modify the clenching pressure of your fingers on the grip helping you develop a steady and firm grip on the golf club. The idea is to free the tension in your forearms and shoulders as well as loosen the wrist on your leading side. This device becomes the resting point of the thumb and index finger. If your thumb and index finger are in the correct position, the amount of unwanted pinching pressure that is exerted on the club can be reduced. In fact, your swing can be ruined by pinching the club too hard with your thumb and index finger.Establishing your Grip on the GameAll three golf swing training aids on display focus on some detail of your grip to enhance your swing, and as such, they are aimed at the novice golfer who is still building technique from the ground up. It is certainly worth taking a look at all three devices. They are cheap and offer a way into focusing on your grip and swing before you get into bad habits on the open fairways.

By Eoin Beckett [ 29/10/2006 ][ viewed 77 times ]

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The Advantages of Logo Golf Balls

2008-01-29T21:53:00.000+07:00

Have you ever thought about what trade shows, conventions, meetings and the holidays all have in common? When you’re in a business that requires promoting your company or organization, it means gifts and giveaways to be sure potential customers remember your name, which in turn means finding a unique yet personal item to put your company name and/or logo on. Personalized logo golf balls are the ideal solution for all of your needs.Just about everyone knows someone who plays golf or participates in the sport themselves, so your money spent certainly won’t go to waste. But it goes much further than that. A golf enthusiast is a member of a truly unique breed, who will brave any natural or manmade element to get in at least nine holes. They live, eat, and sleep the sport, traveling to the ends of the earth to play at a certain course. They collect golf trinkets and trophies, plaques and pictures, tees and t-shirts, anything and everything having to do with golf, including unique golf balls. Many such unique items are never used, but proudly displayed on a shelf for the world to see, including your company name and logo imprinted on the ball. Of course, there are many golfers who will undoubtedly utilize your gift, driving your logo across the course and showing it off to other players in the process. If they lose the ball, that can be considered good news for you, as now the lucky finder will be well aware of you, your company and your logo.Now let’s touch upon packaging of your golf balls, as you probably don’t want the presentation of your unique item to be in plain white packaging. If you’re a store, you have your name/logo printed on the bag or gift box for your customers. If you have a wholesale product, you ship your goods in preprinted boxes. Why would you settle for anything less than a custom package to help promote your custom golf balls? A quality, golf ball printing company will have a variety of options for you to choose from, from single-ball boxes for trade show giveaways all the way up to dozen-ball boxes as gifts for those special customers and clients on your list. And of course, your company name/logo will be incorporated into the design printed on the box.By having custom printed logo golf balls created by a professional company that specializes in this one particular item, you’ll be more than satisfied with the end result. Just like no one knows your business better than you, no one knows custom-printed, logo golf balls better than they do.

By [ 02/11/2006 ][ viewed 66 times ]

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The best time to condition for golf

2008-01-29T21:47:00.000+07:00

The biggest misconception a lot of golfers have about golf conditioning is that it is something that should be done during the golf season, to improve their game immediately. Well, it is actually the opposite. Golf conditioning is even more beneficial when it is started during the "off season" to prepare the body for the stresses it will endure during the golf season.Come fall in Canada, when the leaves are changing colors, the weather is getting cooler, nighttime comes earlier, and golfers start to get a bit panicky about fitting in as many last rounds as they can, some of my clients will tell me "well, I guess our training is coming to an end, but sign me for spring!" My response is always the same: "I would advise you to think about golf conditioning as a year long commitment rather then a seasonal activity, but if you must take some time off, I would rather to take time off during the golf season, then before it starts.What golfers and anyone else conditioning for a specific sport need to understand is that it takes 4-6 of consistent and repetitive activity to condition the body at its best. Especially with a sport like golf which favors one side of the body, creating the in long term what we refer to as muscular imbalances which lead to injuries and may result in taking time off to rest.The "off season" is the best time in golf to condition because it gives the golfer plenty of time (in Canada almost four months) to work on any physical limitations and muscular weaknesses and to train the muscles to become more flexible, stronger and better coordinated. And a well developed program should not only focus on taking care of improving the obvious needs of golf such as mentioned earlier, but should also include exercises that target specific muscular imbalances, lack of range of motion, cardiovascular endurance, and while we are at it, can help rid the body of a few extra pounds. A "golf specific" fitness routine can be started any time of the year, and is most beneficial when it is performed all year around and a new routine is designed every 60-90 days to keep your you and body motivated and challenged. But don't be intimidated by the long term commitment it takes to optimize physical conditioning and improve your game. A golf conditioning specialist can design a program for you based on the equipment and time you have available to dedicate to improving your most important golf equipment: your body.

By Nadia Behnan [ 03/11/2006 ][ viewed 93 times ]

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Golf : Ochoa wraps up player of the year award with 6th win

2008-01-29T21:45:00.000+07:00

MOBILE, Ala. — Lorena Ochoa wrapped up the LPGA Tour's player of the year award with a record-setting finish in the Tournament of Champions. The 24-year-old Mexican star shot a 7-under 65 on Sunday for a 10-stroke victory and a tournament-record 21-under 267 total. She ran her winning streak to three with her sixth victory of the year and earned $150,000 for a season total of $2,492,872."Winning this tournament was very special," Ochoa said. "I think this is going to be a place I will remember for the rest of my life and just achieving my goal of being the best player in 2006."With Annika Sorenstam and Karrie Webb skipping the tournament, Ochoa locked up the player of the year honors before the season-ending ADT Championship."I think it will be easier to win next week now and I don't have that pressure on me that I need to do it for player of the year," Ochoa said. "That's the plan, just to go out there and have fun next week."The former University of Arizona player won the player of the year award for the first time, ending Sorenstam's five-year reign. Ochoa is the first player other than Sorenstam and Karrie Webb to earn the award since 1996."For the last three years, I think we've seen a lot of changes, just different players stepping up," Ochoa said. "I'm just glad to be a part of that, to be one of those. That's my goal to be No. 1. I know that it's harder to maintain yourself and being in that No. 1 position for many years. So now I have a lot of things that I need to do that I need to get better and better every year. I have high goals."Ochoa closed with a 13-foot par putt to break the previous tournament record of 20 under set by Se Ri Pak in 2002. Ochoa took a five-stroke lead Saturday with a 63 after opening the second round with a quadruple-bogey 8 en route to a 73.Paula Creamer and Juli Inkster tied for second at 11 under. Inkster closed with a 68 and Creamer finished with a 70."She played great," Inkster said about Ochoa. "To do what she did yesterday and come right back and do it again today, she is just that type of player. She plays her own game. She doesn't really worry about anybody else. She just tries to go as low as she can. That is a great mentality to have. A lot of people get in that zone and they start freaking, but she keeps plugging away and I don't know if you can teach that."Ochoa started the day with a five-stroke advantage over Creamer. Creamer managed to pull within four strokes of Ochoa twice in the final round after a birdie on the third hole and after Ochoa bogeyed the eighth hole.That's when Ochoa began to methodically pull away with birdies on four of the next five holes. When Creamer bogeyed the 14th, Ochoa's lead grew to nine strokes and the only drama remaining would be whether she would break the tournament record."I tried to put some pressure on Lorena, but she has been playing awesome, so what are you going to do?" Creamer said. "I was just trying to keep it going with her. At a point when you are out there, you only have so many holes left."On the par-4 15th, the toughest hole on the course, Ochoa hit her approach shot within 2 feet for a tap-in birdie and a 10-shot edge.The field for the ADT Championship was finalized, with 13 players getting in on the second half points list: Stacy Prammanasudh, Morgan Pressel, Julieta Granada, Jee Young Lee, Il Mi Chung, Sophie Gustafson, Sun Young Yoo, Maria Hjorth, Diana D'Alessio, Lorie Kane, Candie Kung, Angela Stanford and Wendy Ward. Ai Miyazato and Sung Ah Yim earned the two wild-card entries as the top players on the LPGA money list after the Samsung World Championship who had not previously qualified for the ADT.

By Amardeep Singh [ 13/11/2006 ][ viewed 85 times ]

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Europe’s Best value golf destinations

2008-01-29T21:42:00.000+07:00

If you're looking for a golfing holiday, where great value is as important as great golf, then fly to Faro International Airport, rent a car, and drive to southern Portugal and nearby Spain. Some of the best value golfing destinations can be found in Eastern Algarve in Portugal, and in the Spanish regions of Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol.A budget golf holiday in Eastern AlgarveIf you're on a budget and looking for a quiet holiday that combines golf and nature, then head for this region. Here you'll find well-planned courses, national parks and a range of budget hotels with seven-night prices from around £299 per person. Some of the best value rooms with a sea view can be found at Eurotel Altura, only a 40-minute drive from Faro Airport. The hotel is set right on the beach, close to the Castro Marim golf course, and just three miles from Quinta da Ria Golf Course. In fact, there are four reasonably priced golf courses close by the hotel. Don't be deceived by the sixties exterior – the refurbished rooms are well decorated and comfortable. Best of all, you have the option of eating in the hotel restaurant, with its fine sea views and buffet service, or you can head into the village of Altura with its many dining choices. The Fernando Restaurant, known for its local cuisine and especially fresh fish, is within walking distance of the hotel.Costa de la Luz; the Spanish golfing alternativeIt's also worthwhile flying into Faro for transfer by rental car to Spanish golfing region of Costa de la Luz. On clearing the airport, it's just a 50-minute drive from to the bridge at Ayamonte and across into Spain. There are many good value hotels and, of course, the golfing options are equal to any in Europe. Best of all, green fee rates are 20 per cent lower. Riu Atlantico is the place to stay – holidaymakers travelling with golf holiday specialists Longshotgolf (www.longshotgolf.co.uk) recently voted the hotel "No 1 value for money". This is an exceptional four-star hotel, with friendly, helpful staff who make you feel welcome. It has spacious rooms with a fully stocked minibar and air conditioning, and the buffet restaurant offers on-the-spot cooking. The hotel's large conservatory area has fascinating water features and the promenade running along the front of the hotel makes an enjoyable evening walk. Quinta da Ria and Quinta de Cima courses are only a short drive away.Costa de la Sol is a golfer’s paradiseNicknamed “Costa del Golf”, popular and bustling Costa del Sol offers plenty of golf holiday accommodation options for budget travellers. And with 20 new courses opened in the past 20 years, competition keeps prices down. The mild winters and perfect spring and autumn days make ideal weather for golf or just sunning yourself around the resort pool or on the beach. Off the green, time can also be spent exploring the picturesque yacht harbours, up-market shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Marbella, one of the world’s most glamorous resort destinations, has a casino, and the backstreets of the old town offer bargain brand-name clothing and souvenirs. Nearby Aloha Golf, Las Brisas and Los Naranjos are all recommended golf courses.At Pueto Banus, further west, you’ll find the budget-priced PYR Puerto Banus, popular with golfing groups. Staying in a basic, self-catering studio apartment allows you to save on meal costs. When you decide to head out to eat, it’s just a three-minute walk to the marina, where you can dine with a great view of the yachts. For a nightcap, the hotel Golf Bar is perfect and it stays open until 3:30am.

By Rod Ritchie [ 27/11/2006 ][ viewed 97 times ]

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The top Golfing Islands in the sun

2008-01-28T23:43:00.000+07:00

This year, avoid the winter chill and opt for an island golfing holiday in the sun. Your winter escape is easy to plan – just choose a destination and book your flights and hotels through a reputable golf holiday specialist. Within a few hours you can be at your island destination preparing for a round of golf and contemplating an after match dip in the hotel pool. Whether it’s the Canary Islands or Majorca in Spain, Mauritius, Cyprus, or the Greek island of Corfu, the sunshine and local ambience combined with a relaxing game of golf will lift your winter blues.Canary Islands golf holidays are a winter favourite Renown for their year-round sunshine, magnificent beaches, and rich heritage, Gran Canaria and Tenerife are perfect winter golf destinations. The Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas was founded in 1891, and Gran Canaria now has five first class courses. Given the quality of the courses and the facilities available, the green fees are reasonable starting from 50 euros a round. The island’s beaches are a major drawcard and Maspalomas, with its fine white sand and wind-sculptured dunes, is one of the island’s best.The most popular of the Canary Islands is Tenerife, with its distinctive volcanic landscape. Perfect for winter golf holidays, there are six golf courses on the island. Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates the island and the black volcanic sand beaches meet warm, clear seas. The bustling resort of Playa de Las Americas, in Adeje on the south-western coast, and the coastal fishing village of Los Cristianos, are epicenters of Tenerife golfing holidays. A round of golf in the morning, a nap on the beach in the afternoon, and a visit to the trendy bars and restaurants of Los Cristianos in the evening make up a perfect holiday.Majorca offers quality golf and a vibrant nightlife Reasonable green fees and an improved standard of course are making this Spanish holiday island destination increasingly popular for golf holidays. Scenic walks and excellent shopping provide visitors with plenty to do besides golf. The island’s 19 golf courses offer all levels of golfing challenge in a relaxing Mediterranean setting. Expect high standard facilities and services such as changing rooms, club rental, lockers, buggies, pro shops, cafeterias and qualified PGA instructors. Two fantastic courses are part of the five-star Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, just 15 minutes from Palma International Airport.Mauritius – golfing in a tropical paradise This stunning Indian Ocean island, with its idyllic white sandy beaches, is a tropical paradise that offers golfers a choice of three courses. Culturally diverse, the warm and friendly people are welcoming, and the food, a blend of Indian, Creole, Chinese and European, is a highlight. Belle Mare Plage, a luxurious four-star golf resort in beautiful beach surroundings, has two championship golf courses. Set on a beach protected by an offshore coral reef, the hotel is also perfect for swimming and water sports. All the well-appointed rooms have sea views. History, culture and golf on CyprusOne of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, Cyprus has a stunning coastline and pine-clad mountains, along with a warm climate. Its excellent golf courses have challenging greens and fantastic views. You can also sample wines at the many vineyards, visit historic sites, and dine at excellent cafes and restaurants. Paphos Amathus Beach, just 20 minutes’ drive from Paphos airport, and the closest resort to the courses, provides luxurious accommodation. Stunning gardens surround a huge pool and the beach is out the front. The resort’s restaurants serve delicious food and a 20-minute walk to Paphos harbour will reward you with more dining options. Corfu is home to top quality greensStunning beaches, diverse architecture and a busy nightlife are all part of a Corfu holiday. In Corfu Town you can wander the streets and narrow laneways on a shopping expedition, or soak in the ambience of Spianada Square from one of the many café bars. For island accommodation with a golfing association, the quiet and well-appointed, four-star Louis Grand Glyfada, just 25 minutes drive from Corfu airport. Is ideal. The hotel overlooks Glyfada beach, one of the island’s best. All-inclusive tariffs include a sumptuous buffet evening meal. Set in the Ropa Valley, the Corfu Golf Club has one of the finest layouts in Europe, with man-made hazards that test your game. The clubhouse has all facilities including a bar, lounge and restaurant and the weekly golf ticket is great value for money.
By Rod Ritchie [ 27/11/2006 ][ viewed 86 times ]

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Classic Golf Holidays – the Algarve

2008-01-28T23:41:00.000+07:00

The Algarve, in Southern Portugal, with its year-round sunshine, miles of golden sand beaches, and picturesque villages, has become one of Europe’s most popular golfing destinations. But while there are many courses suiting all abilities, the Algarve is also perfect for non golfers, especially the eastern region around Tavira, with its stunning nature walks. At the other end of the scale, resorts such as Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo are mega destinations with all the golfing and sporting options you could want. Then, in Western Algarve, around the bustling holiday destination of Albufeira, you can holiday 24/7, combining championship golf with a hectic nightlife.Western Algarve golf breaks Besides bustling Albufeira, there is the charming old town of Lagos, set on one of the largest bays in the Algarve. Its 17th-century fort stands at the harbour entrance and a new marina with rows of excellent restaurants and bars draws the crowds. Alvor, an old port at the mouth of the Rio Alvor, has many traditional restaurants by the quay and a maze of cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, shops and a few bars.Golf holidaymakers should check out the renowned Pinta, one of the best courses in the Algarve, designed to retain natural valleys and undulations. Neighbouring Gramacho is also excellent and both courses are free of green fees for those lucky enough to be staying at the Pestana Hotels. Central Algarve offers golf and moreQuinta do Lago is a premier golfing destination. Two of its four excellent 18-hole courses are listed among the Europe’s top 25 golf courses, and half of the 2000-acre resort comprises a residential and recreational estate, surrounded by pine forests. This beautiful area is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Nearby is a large shopping centre with a health club, nightclubs and restaurants, and scenic countryside runs along miles of secluded beaches.Just 20 minutes’ drive from Faro International Airport, Vilamoura is one of Europe’s largest sport and leisure complexes. There are five golf courses, championship tennis courts, an acclaimed riding school, and fishing and shooting facilities. The resort’s large marina has many fine restaurants, cafes and shops.Vale do Lobo, Portugal’s biggest luxury golf and beach resort, also 20 minutes from the airport at Faro, is one of Europe’s finest. Its two golf courses, the Royal and Ocean, provide stunning views of the coast, and its 5 km-long sandy beach, with dramatic red sandstone cliffs, provides non-golfers with seriously good beach and swimming options. The resort also offers tennis courts, a gymnasium and health and beauty centre, as well as restaurants and shops.Eastern Algarve; golf tours without the crowdsFor a less frenetic golfing experience and a chance to enjoy nature, head east from Faro towards the Spanish border. There are many hotels not far from the airport, close to some well-designed courses. Tavira, at the mouth of the River Gilao, is a fishing port dating from Moorish times. Nearby you’ll find Reserva do Sapal, one of Portugal’s most important nature reserves. And just across the border, on the Costa de la Luz, are many more great golf courses.

By Rod Ritchie [ 27/11/2006 ][ viewed 95 times ]

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Mental Imagery for Golf

2008-01-27T21:32:00.000+07:00

What is mental imagery anyways? Is it diffrent from visualization? If so, how? Can its effectiveness be verified, in a more empirical manner?Mental Imagery is an indispensible tool for athletes in every sport. It is difficult to identify a top performing athlete who does not use mental imagery to improve their performance levels.The power of mental imagery can be transferred into your golf game when applied properly. Let's briefly clarify the critical difference between visualization and mental imagery.Visualization is seeing with your mind's eye "while you are playing". Mental imagery is "feeling" with your mind's eye before you play. Ok, this is obviously generalized for the purposes of this article yet the key distinction is revealed. To benefit from mental imagery in your golf game you'll learn how to engage your emotional body while directing specific visual images in your mind. Yet you will do this before you play. Visualization, on the other hand, will be employed during each and every shot you play on the course.The outcome of using mental imagery is to get your conscious and unconscious minds in harmony. To do what I call a "prehearsal" of coming events.You step deeply into your mental images of playing excellent golf and fill yourself with what this feels like. Acting as if you are already actually doing what you are imagining. This is the heart of true peak performance training mental training.By repeating this guided mental imagery process your entire being becomes engrossed in the experience. Your mind accepts these "prehearsals" as actual events.You see, the unconscious mind does not make a distinction between a real or an intensley imagined state. Read that again if this concept is new to you. Now that you're read it again I'll repeat it! The unconscious mind does not make a distinction between a real and an intensley imagined event!This is verfiable with current neuroscience research. I cover this subject in greater length in my book. Yet you can use this powerful knowledge today. Begin thinking with feeling. Use your emotional body to sesne what your pictures should feel like. Then step deeply into these mental images and play golf in your mind! It may seem simple but by using this technique alone I dropped my handicap from the 20's into the low single digits. Without golf lessons.Begin by lying or sitting still and recalling a time whwn you played very well. Now step into this memory and really dig deeply into every nuance of this stae you were in. It will be the doorway to future peak performance states. Once you have a good feel for this memory imagine yourself in the future. Stnding over as shot that was previously challenging to you. Then make the swing. And continue your imaginary round of golf.This single technique can literally transform your game, if you are one of the few who choose to harness the incredible power of their mind.Use your mind properly and your game will improve. In fact, it is inevitable.

By Wade Pearse [ 28/11/2006 ][ viewed 65 times ]

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Michelle Wie: A Heroine Reigns In The Greens

2008-01-27T21:29:00.000+07:00

Golf has just been redefined. Michelle Wie, an American of Korean descent, has surpassed the performance of male golfers twice her age and brought prestige and honor not only to Koreans and Americans, but also to all women golfers everywhere. While Michelle believes that men are competitive and agressive players, she stands firm on the green and continue to beat them through the fairways in the open tournaments.Michelle Wie is as strong golf player as her fellow contemporary golf prodigy Tiger Woods, but her feminine strength, vitality, longevity and resistance makes her a worthy competitor amongst the giants of golf. Today she's making a trailblazing mark in the history of women's golf and the rest of golf's history.Born Michelle Sung Wie on October 11, 1989 in Honolulu, Hawaii, she is the only child of Byung-Wook (“B.J.”) and Hyun-Kyong (“Bo”), both of whom emigrated to the U.S. from South Korea. B.J., a transportation professor at the University of Hawaii, came to California in 1983. Bo, a successful realtor and former Korean amateur golf champion, met B.J. in Los Angeles in 1987, and they married soonafter. The couple moved to Honolulu in 1988 and welcomed Michelle into the world following year.Michelle was four when her father first took her to the driving range. Her first swings, taken with a baseball grip, were so hard she nearly fell over. Practicing in the family’s backyard, Michelle eventually straightened out her shots. At age 7, she played her first 18-hole round and finished 14-over par. By the age of 10, she was shooting a 64.Since then, Michelle played various levels in golf tournaments and achieved numerous golf titles consecutively in her early teenage years. Aside from joining the women's tournament, she also found her place playing golf against male opponents.Through the years, Michelle has been thoroughly polishing her golf skills. World titles are stocking up and earning her a reputation as the newest golf player to watch for not unlike a younger Tiger Woods. Michelle Wie is virtually a phenomenon who is now about to turn professional and compete in both the LPGA and the PGA against the likes of Anika Sorenstam, Juli Inkster, Karrie Webb, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and ViJay Singh. Based on an interview, Michelle's ultimate goal was to play in the Masters. “I think it'd be pretty neat walking down the Masters fairways”, she said.

By [ 12/12/2006 ][ viewed 77 times ]

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Michelle Wie: A Heroine Reigns In The Greens

2008-01-27T21:27:00.000+07:00

By [ 12/12/2006 ][ viewed 74 times ]

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How Golf Hypnosis Can Help Hole Short Putts

2008-01-27T21:25:00.000+07:00

Tim Smale, whose clients include former Labour Party spin king Alastair Campbell and a host of sporting stars and high-profile business people, believes a 35 minute-a-day mental masterclass - via his specially designed golf hypnosis MP3 downloads and CDs - could spell an end to short putting misery for millions of golfers worldwide. He has joined forces with Chris Jenkins, a PGA Professional golfer and coach to Oliver Fisher - described as the best young British golfer since Nick Faldo - to launch www.golfhypnotherapy.com, a website dedicated to providing golf hypnosis and instruction techniques specifically targeted at times in a round when pressure and anxiety can wreak havoc. "Golfers face around 50 high pressure situations during a round, particularly in competition play, and nervous tension can cause even the best players in the world to 'choke'," said Smale, aged 46, from his private practice off London's Trafalgar Square."Having a short putt for par seems like an easy task until you actually step up to the ball - then this tiddler can suddenly look like a 10-foot monster. Nervous tension and a sudden fear of missing combine with disastrous effects and what generally happens is that the subconscious mind - the powerful part of the brain which enables humans to perform simple functions 'without thinking' - is overruled. "Our aim at golfhypnotherapy.com is to create golf hypnosis products that enable golfers to harness the power of their subconscious using a mixture of clinical hypnosis and executive coaching. "This form of mind coaching is fast and effective in making wholesale behavioural change using safe and ethical hypnotherapeutic techniques. The objective is to use hypnosis to access the subconscious mind to resolve issues quickly - and I expect golfers to see improvements to their game after listing to our golf hypnosis CDs and downloads just three times." Smale and Jenkins’ first audio mind coaching aid is 'Become A Deadly Short Putter' which features specific golf instruction tips, drills and information used by Jenkins throughout his pro career to help clients develop confidence and repeatable technique on the green. It is backed up by a second product, 'Beat First Tee Nerves' designed to help golfers make a great start to their round - and keep it going. The leading golf instruction professional at Crowlands Heath Golf Club in Sussex, England, Jenkins has taught British golf prodigy Oliver Fisher since the age of 9 and developed him into the youngest-ever Walker Cup star.Said Jenkins, 39: "There is no doubt that having a mind coach is like having an extra club in the bag. All the top pros have mind 'gurus' but the average golfer simply cannot afford to have that kind of resource at his disposal. "What we are doing through golfhypnotherapy.com is giving casual golfers the chance to experience all the hints, tips and mind coaching techniques used by the pros - from the comfort of their own home. All they have to do is sit back and listen - they'll get better at golf while they 'sleep' thanks to our golf hypnosis programme." Before setting up Mindworks - London’s first dedicated practice specialising in Mind Coaching - Smale had spent 20 years working in senior management roles in some of the UK's most successful media organisations.As a result of his fascination, study and subsequent qualifications, he established a confidential consulting practice in the heart of London's West End which aims to enhance personal performance, increase self esteem, build confidence, encourage safer risk taking, provide focus, overcome phobias and calm anxieties. A member of the Hypnotherapy Association, Hypnotherapy Society and Counselling and Psychotherapy Society, he uses hypnosis to enhance performance, modify behaviour and manage stress for individuals from corporate business, sport and all other walks of life. Smale was mind coach to Alastair Campbell’s London triathlon team in 2004.He added: "Hypnosis is a naturally occurring phenomenon, a state of mind that we experience many times every day of our lives. To understand it better we must first understand the power of the subconscious mind. “It is a resource we can tap into for creativity, emotion and intuition and it is responsible for maintaining our bodies in good health and for all the autonomic processes we take for granted, such as breathing, blood circulation and tissue repair. "Tapping into this in a golf context means golfers will absorb the information we provide through golf hypnosis and use it, subconsciously, to play better by using good habits."Habits such as these, and many more, are formed in the subconscious mind and allow us to perform many tasks ‘without thinking’. In order to modify a habit or behaviour or enhance a performance it follows that we must first access the subconscious mind and re-programme it. "We access the subconscious mind through ‘intended golf hypnosis’ - a safe and enjoyable process that can change the way we live on many exciting levels."In recent years, using a mind coach has become all the rage in professional golf. Jamil Qureshi, magician-turned-psychologist was recently signed by the European Tour to work with the European Ryder Cup team and has private clients including Simon Dyson, Thomas Bjorn and Lee Westwood.Other European stars including Darren Clarke, Paul McGinley and Graeme McDowell all work with psychologist Dr Karl Morris, while in the US mind coach Bob Rotella has clients including David Duval and Brad Faxon.

By Mike Rad [ 13/12/2006 ][ viewed 220 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Tiger Woods’ Got It All

2008-01-27T21:22:00.000+07:00

Besides his skills to play golf and his fame now Tiger Woods, the great professional golfer, signed a new contract with Nike. This one is the third multi-year deal with this brand.The terms of the contract haven’t been disclosed yet but if we refer to their past, this might be a very lucrative agreement for the golfer. His first contract was back in 1996 and it earned him an approximate amount of $40 million over five years. The next one was also for five years starting in 2001 and it was for $100 million.Nike's golf division sells around $500 million in equipment and apparel; this is just a three percent of their overall business. When Nike first signed Tiger Woods, the company was just getting involved with the world of links. But now, ten years later, with Woods being their model, Nike Golf sales have grown 300 percent.Tiger Woods, has won eight tournaments this season, and should be honored with the PGA Tour Player of the Year next Tuesday. He has won 54 PGA Tour titles and earned $97.6 million in the year 2005, $87 million came from his endorsements. In 2004, he earned $6.3 million for swinging the club, and another $83 million for just being Tiger.Tiger Woods also has some other contracts with General Motors, American Express and the Swiss watches corporation: Tag Heuer.It seems like Tiger Woods, who is the number one golfer in the world has his financial future guaranteed.

By Julie Smith [ 15/12/2006 ][ viewed 152 times ]

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Golf Putting Training Aids

2008-01-27T21:19:00.000+07:00

Lets start by saying that a putt of 5 to 7 feet are the putts we expect to make, yet have the most trouble with. These are the putts we need to improve on. Anyone can sink a 3 foot putt. If you're more than 7 feet away, the percentage of a putt sinking go down drastically to where you can accept that you will have to more than likely make a 2nd putt.So the 4 to 6, 5 to 7 foot shot is where we want to spend our time practicing. It is well known that the Pros sink only about 50% of their putts of between 5 to 7 feet, so you really cant get to upset with yourself when you are missing 5 to 7 footers, but we can improve this, so lets practice and see if we can improve our success rate for the 5 to 7 foot putt.So you're at the local practice putting green. Grab a hand full of balls and lets get started. Start with the balls about 5 feet from the hole. We will want to concentrate on 2 major points as we putt. The stroke and alignment.It is very important to have the correct alignment so we can get a strait shot. When we have our alignment squared away, we can then go on to focus on the stroke. If you regularly miss strait putts where there is no break, your alignment is slightly off or your stroke is off. If you are missing putts with a break, your stroke may be good, but the speed of the ball may be off. It is important for this drill to find an area without a break. We will fix our strait putts before tackling the breaking putts.There are a myriad of putting improvement aids on the market. The Odyssey putter employees a 2-ball technology that aids in alignment which is as I described, the most important part of putting. However, the Odyssey putter is quite expensive and you don't need to spend $239 to become a good putter. I found a nice little aid called the 2-Way Putter Alignment System. Its a small metal gizmo with a magnet on the base that allows the 2-Way to snap right on to your existing putter head. Then you square it up over the ball or behind in the traditional 2-Ball mode and you have the 2-ball technology to use for putting practice. Here is a link to the 2-Way Putter Alignment System if you are interested.I recommend practicing with either the Odyssey 2-Ball putter, or the 2-Way Putter Alignment System, because the 2-Ball technology is without a doubt absolutely effective. As the 2 white circles that comprise the 2-Ball technology pass through with the stroke, an imperfection in the alignment of your putting stroke becomes obvious like a sore thumb. This is invaluable feedback to the individual desiring to have more success with putting.Now We start putting, keeping our 2 concerns in mind. Alignment and stroke. Align the putter head square as best you can words the hole. The 2-Way will help here. Remember, this is the biggest problem with poor putting and takes the most time and effort in practice to correct. Once you have corrected your alignment, You will see a great improvement. Now make sure the putter head is going strait back on the swing. There should be no motion two rd or away from your body.Lets set yourself a goal. We must Sink 50 in a row from a distance between 4 to 7 feet. This is going to be hard to achieve, but it is possible. Remember, if you miss a single putt, you have to start over at 1. This teaches you to putt under pressure. You know how you will feel as you get into the 40's. You will feel the pressure and you have to press on and sink the rest or you go back to 1. That's pressure. This will help you improve your concentration and your putting stroke.As your stroke improves, you will notice that you will become more and more confident in your short putting ability to the point where you will be able to step back to 7 and 8 feet and farther with more confidence in your putting ability.This putting drill can be done anywhere. If you happen to be home or goofing off in the office. You can practice on the carpet. The point is, Alignment and Stroke. Work on that and use the technique described and before you know it, you will be an impressive putter. And its all about being impressive.

By Chris Schaller [ 21/12/2006 ][ viewed 60 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Discount Clone Golf Clubs - Save Your Money for the 19th Hole!

2008-01-27T21:16:00.000+07:00

Anyone who plays golf knows the sport is not at all cheap. With membership fees, golf green fee costs, golf shoes, golf clothes, golf clubs, golf carts and golf balls, even a minimalist wishing to play has to fork out a small fortune. With the availability of clone golf clubs, there is now an area where you can keep some money in your own pocket and still achieve the same results on the course.It can be boring if you finish a great game of golf, but don’t have any money left over for a beer or glass of wine at the end. You want to save money where you can for the social side of golfing. Instead of buying over priced brand name golf clubs, why not get clone golf clubs instead, and save money for a bit of fun with your golfing friends?Clone golf clubs are not golf clubs made to OEM or original manufacturer standards as some people suspect. They are in fact clubs made to their own specifications and own use of modern technology. Clone golf clubs are made from quality materials and can also be custom designed for your specific and individual requirements. Brand name golf clubs such as Callaway, Ping, Nike, Taylor Made or Titleist are very expensive and only golfers with money to burn can really afford to buy them. A famous pro golfer once said “The ball can’t tell the brand”, which is true and means people are only buying expensive, over-priced clubs to show off to their peers and advertise their wealth.If you can’t afford to buy your name-brand golf clubs with cash up front, maybe you are buying out of your league. You could get clone golf clubs that do the same job for half the price or less. Value does not mean low quality, it just means low prices for a product that performs just as well. The clone golf clubs have proven themselves to be reliable, long-lasting and made with quality design and modern technology. Clone golf drivers are less expensive without compromising the quality or size of the club head. Whether your game is to try the new age square driver heads or you prefer the traditional shaped drivers, you will find a clone golf club that is similar to the name brand for considerably less money. The price you would expect to pay for a clone golf driver is around $70 - $100. The same goes for other clubs such as golf woods, golf hybrids, golf wedges and golf putters. The range of clone golf clubs is versatile and the clubs are stylish, new age and high quality.You will always play golf with a smile on your face when you know you haven’t had to pay a fortune for your clubs. Within reason, if the clubs you are using are the right specifications for your size, once you are used to using them, you can master how to play with them. It doesn’t matter if you spend $70 or $700, this is still the case. Next time you need a new club or set of clubs, choose clone golf clubs – you won’t be getting second best, you will just be paying less!

By Kevin Fairbanks [ 19/01/2007 ][ viewed 68 times ]

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From Club Car to Kohler; How to Save money with your Golf Car fleet

2008-01-27T00:25:00.000+07:00

Caravans of golf carts log numerous miles each day on golf courses around the country as they carry golfers to the next hole, pro shop, or the clubhouse for some grub. Golf carts are an integral part of operations at many golf courses. This is especially true on large golf courses or those that make their way through rugged terrains. Most golfers would find walking a course while toting the weight of a golf bag cumbersome and unappealing, and walking wouldn’t even be plausible at some golf courses. Most golfers would instead prefer to have a golf cart do the hard work of navigating over rugged terrain and up steep, mountainous elevations for them. Okay, certainly we can agree that keeping as many golf carts as possible motoring is essential to happy golfers and for the golf courses bottom financial line. But is it better to repair golf carts? Or is it a wiser investment to continually purchase “new” golf carts to meet ever-growing numbers of golfers? The answer of course is dependent in large part on the amount of money that a golf course wishes to allocate towards either the purchasing of new golf carts, or the repairing, repowering of golf carts already in inventory. A brand new golf cart may run longer before any problems prop up compared to a golf cart that has been refurbished. But keep in mind that with the demands placed upon the average golf cart, even “new” ones will eventually need some repairs to keep them running smoothly. It might be wiser to implement a plan wherein “new” golf carts are added to your ‘pool’ of golf carts when possible and “older” carts repaired until their repair costs start to “outweigh” the amount of time the carts are available for use on the fairways.You can reduce the costs of golf cart repairs by opting to “repower” your golf carts with small engines such as those manufactured by Briggs Stratton, Cushman, Kohler, and Honda, who have the small engines with the power you need to keep your golf carts running. The manufacturers of these small engines have designed them to withstand heavy workloads, even the workload placed upon the average golf cart. These small engines come in a wide assortment of sizes, available horsepower, and different transmission set-ups, to meet all of your power needs. These engines also use a variety of sources such as gasoline, diesel, and electricity from batteries for their power: making them quite adaptable to the course-specific needs of every golf course.The Cushman line of small engines include: the Cushman Truckster and Cushman Haulster. . The Cushman Truckster small engine can provide a golf cart with all the power it needs to traverse rugged terrains with the weight of passengers and equipment on board with ease. The Cushman Haulster is also built to handle heavy loads. The various manufacturers of these small engines have all worked hard to develop and design the small engines that can put out a tremendous amount of power for their size, stand up to the rigorous demands placed on them with less maintenance required, and at a reasonable enough cost to make them a viable choice for use in the repowering of golf carts. You will find these engines are a cost-effective choice for the other equipment used for the maintenance of golf courses such as seeders and mowers. Many of those in charge of keeping the motorized equipment on their golf courses running place their trust in these small engines for all of their power needs.

By Ben Anton [ 19/01/2007 ][ viewed 118 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golfing in Costa Rica

2008-01-27T00:23:00.000+07:00

Costa Rica is fast becoming one of the most popular places on the planet to vacation, and for good reason. It never snows and anytime is always a good time to go to the beach. Pristine, picturesque natural rainforests and parks cover a large portion of the country, part of why Costa Rica is leading the growing trend of ecotourism. And of course, all that fresh air and green grass lend themselves to making the area especially perfect for one other popular activity: golfing in Costa Rica. There are five major Costa Rican golf courses to chose from, whether you’re moving to Costa Rica or just thinking about living in Costa Rica for a week or two.Have you ever golfed amongst monkeys? Now’s your chance! The Garra de Leon golf course was built right alongside a natural rainforest, and it’s a common occurrence to have native wild animals cheer you on as you play. Truly stunning from beginning to end, Garra de Leon provides a unique golf adventure that both the beginner and the advanced golfer will love golfing in Costa Rica again and again.The Hacienda Pinilla offers a luxurious rolling golf course with the waves of the Pacific Ocean practically crashing right at your feet. Along the way, you’re sure to spot at least one or two rare native species of bird or monkey. The Hacienda Pinilla is unique in that it incorporates the natural surroundings right into the course as nature-built obstacles, making for a rewarding yet challenging game for players at all levels.Villa del Sol, or Sun Valley, serve double-duty: it is both a natural wildlife habitat and one of the most enjoyable golf courses in Central America. The only downside to the course is that it’s easy to find yourself staring at the towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and rolling lawns instead of focusing on your shot!Situated right on the Pacific Ocean and in the midst of some of Costa Rica’s most breath-taking rainforests is the Los Suenos Beach and Golf Resort. While your travel companions are lounging on the beach or relaxing back at the resort, you can enjoy many full days of golf on this Par 72 course. Once you’ve had your fill of golfing for the day, you can enjoy the on-site casino, restaurants, pools, and tennis courts.If you’re thinking of moving to Costa Rica, you can join the exclusive Melia Cariari Golf Club, giving you access to the oldest and most prestigious 18-hole golf course in all of Central America. To maintain its beauty and make their golfing experience a truly memorable on, Melia Cariari is closed to non-members, so tourists cannot play. However, many who have enjoyed its lush, challenging course have said that the Melia Cariari alone would be enough to get them to keep living in Costa Rica year-round!Whether you’re currently living in Costa Rica or haven’t even though of moving to Costa Rica, Costa Rican golf courses are there to provide endless hours of unforgettable putting pleasure. With your options for golfing in Costa Rica spanning five distinct, expertly-designed courses—the Garra de Leon, Hacienda Pinilla, Valle del Sol, Los Suenos, and Melia Cariari—you may soon find yourself living in Costa Rica whether you planned to or not!by David Lovendahl, Costa Vista Marketing

By Karen Lovendahl [ 19/01/2007 ][ viewed 68 times ]

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Would you like to get paid for playing golf?

2008-01-27T00:22:00.000+07:00

Learning the basics of playing golf for free is very simple. As a means of getting you started, I will give you a few quick ideas right now on getting your golf game for free. It is not as difficult as you might think and you do not necessarily have to be a celebrity to enjoy this benefit. First of all, you can become a professional golf ‘Escort’. This method is not new to the average golfer. You can actually play golf for free doing something that businessmen and women do every day. This is one of the ways that you can actually get paid to play golf every day. If it pleases you, you can use this method as a full time business. Golf is becoming one of the most important and most profitable sports in the world right now. This is a trend that excellent golfers like Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia have helped spur on. Young golfers like them have ushered in a brand new era of young golfers, and with them a great deal more popularity. Did you know for instance, that around 40% of all of the money that is spent on sports in the United States is given to golf? It’s true; in fact, golf has become so popular that businesses across the world are using golf as a marketing tool. What this means is that businesses also have a responsibility to make golf more entertaining for the golfers that are playing. Today’s businessmen don’t really have time to play a few games with their clients like they used to. The days when business people played a few holes for their high end clients are gone. This is where the professional golf escort comes in handy. How many times have you heard or seen someone say that they like to mull over their business decisions over a game of golf? This is quite common, however today’s business person often have enough on their plates just conducting business.Golf is just something that they don’t have time for. This market is gigantic in the business world because as so many decisions are made over a game of golf, so business people need someone who can spend the time in the day to play the game. That’s where you come in. How it works is that these businesses will hire you to play the golf games with their clients when they can’t do it. Not only will you get to play golf on the business’ dime, but you will actually get paid to do it.Why would someone pay me to golf?You may be wondering why anyone would go to such lengths as to pay someone else to play a game or two of golf every day. That is very easy to answer. Below I have listed the most common reasons why these companies will pay you to play golf for them. 1. Since so many business people’s time is very valuable, they simply can’t spend the time in the day that is needed to entertain their clients with golf games. This is a very common practice today and is also a great way for the businesses to ensure that their clients are happy while still having the free time they need to conduct every day business in the office. 2. Many business people hire escorts because they just don’t know how to play golf themselves. This is another time when you can capitalize from it. Many of the executives that can’t play the game do not want to be embarrassed and therefore will simply outsource instead. 3. The other reason why they are willing to pay for your golfing services is because although the executive might know how to play golf and may even have the time for it, they may simply just not be very good at it. That may leave their client feeling bored during the game and therefore take away from the fun for them. These things having been said, you may have a better idea as to why companies are willing to pay someone like you to play the game for them. You can make a pretty penny from this.

By andrew dimmelow [ 21/01/2007 ][ viewed 92 times ]

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Golf : Els drinks up and prepares to tackle Woods

2008-01-25T22:28:00.000+07:00

December in George on South Africa’s Garden Route, Christmas in Mauritius, new year in Cape Town, January in Wentworth until the foul weather forced him to flee back to South Africa. The life of Riley. Yes, and also the life of Ernie Els. And now he is here in Qatar preparing for his eighteenth season as a professional. Els, 37, bent to press his tee-peg slowly into the ground and placed his ball on it. He was about to hit his first drive of his first practice round before his first tournament of the year, his first round with a new caddie and his first appearance since he admitted that he has drawn up a three-year plan to displace Tiger Woods as world No 1. No pressure, then. In 1990, Els and De Wet Basson, a fellow South African, teamed up on the European Tour. “It was tough for us,” Els said. “Money was tight, but I loved the chances to visit the European capitals — Madrid, Paris, London. “During the Irish Open one year, De Wet and I went to a local pub to watch the tennis, the French Open, on television. We were bad. We were drinking a lot and betting on every point. Got home to this little bed and breakfast and I was sick. The landlady gave me some food, helped me to bed and woke me up the next morning and got me off to the tournament“They were good days. That was when I learnt how to travel. I learnt about the game, learnt about myself. I am so glad I came through the system when I did. It was the old school. I have been lucky. I have got a good wife. She understands me and supports me. She believes in me. She likes to travel. Imagine if she had her own business.” He rolled his eyes. Els was accompanied on this practice round by Jos Vanstiphout, the mind coach, J. P. Fitzgerald, his new caddie, and a couple of others. Els often plays practice rounds with Adam Scott, Sergio García, Trevor Immelman and Vijay Singh. “Some of the guys live in the US and I live in London, so we have different lives and it’s difficult,” Els said. “I don’t play practice rounds with Tiger. I want to stay away from that circus.” Nearly two hours after starting, Els had mentioned Woods’s name for the first time. “I think that some of the young guys are a little too serious at an early age,” Els said. “Because of the way Tiger prepares for tournaments, he is different. You’ve got to be yourself. You know your strengths and weaknesses. I see a lot of youngsters trying to swing like him and they are not built like him. He is a wonderful role model, but for some of them I am not sure it is totally the right thing.” Els’s fortunes began to improve in 1992. “I played with John Cook in the last round of that year’s Open at Muirfield,” he said. “Cooky should have won. I came fifth. At the 1993 US Open at Baltusrol in 1993, Lee Janzen [the eventual winner] missed a 20-foot putt on the last green on Friday that would have knocked me out of the competition. I went 67, 68 at the weekend and finished seventh. Then , in that year’s Open at Royal St George’s, I had four rounds in the 60s. Then I was off. I won a tournament in Japan at the end of the year, beat Greg Norman in Dubai at the start of the next year. In 1994, I won the US Open in a play-off and six times around the world.” The subject turned to rugby. “We should have a bet on England v South Africa in the World Cup,” Els said to a companion. “Hmm,” came the reply. “What about 50 on that game and 50 on the team that goes further in the competition?” “Dollars or pounds?” the companion asked. “Depends how strongly you support your country,” Els said. The companion gulped. On that windy afternoon, Els’s swing looked rusty and a couple of shots were off line. Hardly surprising, considering how little golf he has played and no one should read too much into the occasional inaccurate drive. The Commercialbank Qatar Masters, which begins today, is the start of an important year for Els. Can he win more than the one tournament he captured in 2006? Can he climb up the world rankings from No 5? Most of all, can he challenge Woods again? There is a three-year plan, remember.

By Amardeep Singh [ 25/01/2007 ][ viewed 69 times ]

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Third Round of the FA Cup

2008-01-25T22:26:00.000+07:00

The third round of the FA Cup took place this Sunday January 7th and it was a game worth watching. Wayne Rooney set up both goals for Manchester United, which leads the Premier League by six points and is also in contention for the Champions League title. The Red Devils won all three trophies in 1999. Larsson scored in the 55th minute but Milan Baros tied it in the 74th for Aston Villa, which is run by Cleveland Browns owner Randy Lerner. Solskjaer then sent a shot that went into the net off the body of Villa goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly. I think United deserved to win the game, because they made a host of but you have to feel a bit for Villa, because they probably deserved a goal when they really started to become a threat to the other team. Larsson is playing in England for 10 weeks during the Swedish league's winter break and seemed to have no trouble settling in. After United failed to clear a corner, a pass from Gary Cahill fell to the feet of Baros, who poked it past United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak from 10 yards. But Solskjaer, who replaced Larsson in the 79th, beat Kiraly at the near post after taking a pass from Rooney.

By Ally White [ 27/01/2007 ][ viewed 83 times ]

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Cushman Engines Repowered; Tips from the experts at Repower Specialists, LTD

2008-01-25T22:23:00.000+07:00

While the main benefit stands right out to some individuals, others are oblivious to it. Money. This is the main reason for repowering your golf cart engine. Whether you have a Kohler engine or a Briggs Stratton engine, it makes no difference. To go out and purchase a new golf cart will cost you anywhere from $5000 to $14,000 depending upon the quality. On the other hand, repowering your golf cart engine may cost between $1,000 and $2,500, depending upon what model you choose. Obviously, the savings can be astronomical and because your repowered engine will use less fuel, you’ll be saving on gas, as well. When you repower your golf cart engine, you can also increase how useful your machine will be as you have the option to fit it with a more powerful engine. When you have more power, you can do more things with your golf cart, whether it is hauling items around or simply getting faster to a location. You may even have enough power to put a snowplow on it and get the job done quicker.Another benefit to repowering your golf cart engine is that it will be much easier to maintain. The parts for an updated engine will be much easier to find than your ancient engine. You will also be able to get spare parts in-stock to make sure you always have what you need should something go wrong. You should also receive a new warranty on your new repowered engine so if something does happen, it will be covered.You’ll also find that when you repower your golf cart engine, you can do so with a newer and cleaner running engine that will meet the EPA standards for emissions control. What does this mean for you? Well, a much cleaner environment and you’ll be taking a part in helping to keep the air clean. When you choose to repower your golf cart engine, you’ll find that Kohler makes several kits to fit Toro, Jacobsen, Cushman, and Club Car or you can even check with Briggs Stratton kits for your cart. These kits will include all of the essential items that you will need to put in a new engine. Just think, if you were the owner of a golf course and needed to repair or replace your fleet of golf carts, which would you rather do? Spend as much as $20,000 to $40,000 on four new carts or spend about $6,000 to $8,000 having them repowered? The fact is it doesn’t matter whether you own a golf course and have a whole fleet of golf carts or if you’re simply the proud owner of one, when you repower your golf cart with a new engine, the advantages are many and are not just financial. So before you go shopping for a new one, consider checking into repowering your golf cart engine with either a Briggs Stratton engine, Kohler engine, or even a Honda small engine. You’ll find you’ll have a whole lot more power in the cart, as well as a whole lot more money left in your pocket.

By Ben Anton [ 26/02/2007 ][ viewed 81 times ]

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Powerful Golf Swing. Do you want it. Take the time.

2008-01-25T22:21:00.000+07:00

How do you build a powerful golf swing? When you watch those big strong golf pro’s swing that golf club so effortlessly but still reach those tremendous distances you cant help to wonder how they achieve this, it looks so simple and easy. You start to think there must be some kind of secret that only the golf pro’s know about and they wont tell anyone else how to build a powerful golf swing. I am sure you have experienced that feeling when you’re out on the golf course that you just cant get any distance, your golf swing just don’t feel comfortable, and the harder you try to hit that ball the more disastrous the outcome. You just don’t have a powerful golf swing. Off to the practice range and you find out that hitting four hundred balls only helped a slight bit if any, and on the golf course the next week you can see little improvement. So what do I need to do? You need club control and that will come automatically if you have a powerful golf swing.The golf instructor at my local golf club gave me a tip for building a powerful golf swing. Practice your golf swing holding the club only in your left hand if you’re a right handed player and vice versa if you are left handed. It helped a tremendous amount. I could see and feel the difference out on the course the first timeSo I took it a step further and taped a piece of lead weighing about one pound just above the club head of my five iron. And started practicing swinging the club just like a normal golf swing, with the correct posture, grip, full back swing and full follow through but holding the club only in my left hand. Only for about twenty minutes a day.A very simple drill but I could not believe the results I got. Now it feels like I am only pulling the club through the ball and it flies a mile. At last a powerful golf swing!

By Eugene Benade [ 02/03/2007 ][ viewed 52 times ]

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Choosing the Right Golf Bag for You

2008-01-25T22:18:00.000+07:00

Golf bags are one of the most important elements of a comfortable golf experience. If you have the wrong golf bag you are bound to be miserable if it’s too heavy, too long, too short, or doesn't have enough space for all of your clubs and golf gear. Finding the right golf bag can take some time, so it’s good to think about what you really need, what you want, and even plan for additions to your golf gear in the future. Many golf pros suggest starting out with a very basic bag and growing from there as you determine your golf style and what you need and expect from a bag. Golf bags are like almost anything else in golf, there are premium bags and very simple bags and everything in between with prices to match. What works best for you may not work best for someone else, so don't take the word of another golfer as gospel, research your options and then invest.One of the most popular golf bags is the Optima 9 Deluxe cart bag. This golf would definitely fit into the premium end of things, though it will cost you less than $150. The Optima 9 golf bag is great because it offers a 14-way divider system so that you know where each club is when you are looking for it. This divider system will not only make playing more fun, your gear will also be more organized so you are less likely to lose things. This bag is its own cart and it has a strap guidance system that allows you to easily pull this cart/bag behind you as you make your way through the course. The wheels are quite steady so there is no need to worry about spillage or anything of the sort. This impressive bag also offers a rain and travel hood, so your golf bag truly can go anywhere with you. The Optima 9 Deluxe also boasts seven easy access pockets, which are important for things like gloves, a hat, sun screen, tees, and anything else you may carry with you while golfing that you won't want to have to dig for. Many consider this the best golf bag on the market, as it does offer quite a bit in the way of features and functionality. As an added bonus this exquisite golf bag also offers a cooler pocket and a putter tube.The Bang stand bag is also quite popular for those that don't necessarily need something as luxurious as the Optima mentioned above. While this is not as luxurious as the Optima this is still a great bag that has its own metal frame that acts as a stand. No longer do you have to lay your golf bag on the ground as you go about your day on the course, now your clubs will be well protected and will not have to bang around in your bag as you drop it to the ground. This is also a very affordable bag considering that it is very light weight and is a great golf stand bag.A golf travel bag may also be ideal for you depending on where you golf and when. If you like to travel around the country to experience new courses a travel golf bag is definitely in order. These are typically hard sided bags that will protect your golf clubs and gear as you travel from city to city aboard a plane, train, or even in the car. A travel bag will run you about $130 but is more than worth the investment considering how much money you have probably put into all of your gear that you keep in your bag.A golf bag is truly a personal choice, and with so many options on the market you'll have no problem finding the one that is right for you. While some of the bags may be a bit pricey sales and online vendors can save you quite a bit of money while offering quality equipment. Your golf bag is something that you should feel comfortable with, no matter what the style.

By Alex Bezborodko [ 09/03/2007 ][ viewed 49 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf Ball Retriever: The Tool for Every Golfer

2008-01-24T23:15:00.000+07:00

A golf ball retriever is a tool that every golfer should have to eliminate the need to bend and stoop to locate your ball. While a golf ball retriever is actually very simple, it is a tool that can make your golf game much more fun, much easier, cleaner, and simply more enjoyable. When those that are new to golfing hear of such a contraption they tend to snicker and wonder why in the world they would ever need a ball retriever. After just a few games most golfers have a new understanding and appreciation for the golf ball retriever.A golf ball retriever is just that, it retrieves balls so that the golfer does not have to go into water, mud, or rocks to retrieve a miss-hit. Ball retrievers often come in very handy when you play on a course that has a lot of ponds, lakes, wooded areas, as well as rock gardens. Of course, you never intend to hit your ball into these areas, but every now and again it will happen and a golf ball retriever will make it a lot easier to get your ball without all of the climbing and stooping that is generally associated with locating ones ball. Because of your golf ball retriever you’ll find that you have to buy golf balls less often because you won’t just write them off when they land in hard to reach areas.There are a few different golf ball retrievers on the market. Two of the most well known are the IGOTCHA golf ball retriever and the Golden Retriever golf ball retriever. There are many other retrievers on the market, these two products are just known for their reliability as well as their durability. Because there are these great products as well as others on the market it can be difficult to ascertain which is right for you. The great thing is that all ball retrievers are relatively affordable, so you can go for one of the well-known products of something else on just about any budget.The IGOTCHA golf ball retriever is also very popular and can be purchased for right around $30 as well. Like other retrievers the IGOTCHA comes in a variety of sizes ranging from 6-18 feet long allowing you to grab your ball with ease from any area. IGOTCHA can grab your golf ball from water, mud, rocks, and soggy areas of green after a rain so that your pants as well as your shoes can stay clean. IGOTCHA has cleverly come up with four different ball retrievers known as the Executive, the Executive XL, and the Biggest. IGOTCHA is definitely a quality product that many golfers can get a lot of use out of.The Golden Retriever golf ball retriever will usually cost about $30 and will fit into or attach to golf bags with ease. Even though the Golden Retriever comes in 7, 12, and 18 foot the handle is telescopic so that you don’t have to lug around a huge ball retriever from hole to whole during your game. This ball retriever can be fully immersed in water or mud should it happen to land in one of these things. The claw like handles will allow you to simply scoop up the ball with one hand and then drop the ball into the other. Because the handle is telescopic you can reach a ball that is in the middle of the pond. A golf ball retriever is a tool that every golfer should have. If the golfer in your life doesn’t already have one, a retriever makes a great fathers day, birthday, mother’s day, or Christmas gift.

By Alex Bezborodko [ 09/03/2007 ][ viewed 50 times ]

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Improving Your Game with a Golf Mat

2008-01-24T23:13:00.000+07:00

There are various types of golf mats that are worth purchasing to practice and even refine your golf game. Many avid golfers find that a golf practice mat is an ideal way to keep improving, even when they don’t have the time to actually get out on the green every day. Golf is truly a game that takes quite a bit of practice, and a golf mat in your home can help you get the practice you need so that you see a difference every time you are out on the course.There are several different golfing mats out on the market. Generally you’ll see mats for indoor use, as well as golf chipping mats for the outdoors, as well as a golf driving range mat. With all of the different golf mats out there it can be difficult to know what is what and which product is right for you. Perhaps you need more than one, depending on how often you practice and where you play. A golf mat almost always comes in handy, regardless of how long you have been playing as it will help you refine your skills even more.One of the best golf practice mat solutions on the market is the Expand-a-Green golf mat. This is a professional quality golfing mat that will allow you to practice all of your big swings, putting, and chipping in any area. The Expand-a-Green is very portable so that you can take it with you to a friend’s house, on vacation, or to the park. This golf mat will only run you about $120 and for all of the versatility that it offers that is quite a steal.If you want something that can easily be used indoors you may want to look at a chipping and driving mat. These will usually run about $90.00 and can be used in doors and they provide a place that is big enough for your full stance so that you can get all of the practice that you need chipping and driving before you actually head out to the course. This is a great way to really up the ante on your game in the privacy of your own home.If you aren’t looking for anything to help with your practice, you may be looking for a golf driving range mat that will help you eliminate the need for a tee. With one of these mats that measures roughly six inches by eight inches and eliminates the task of carrying around a tee and sticking it in the ground throughout the course. One of the better brands is the Upright Tee Mat and really will come in handy if you are not a big fan of golf tees. This type of golf mat will run you just over $20 and is a handy piece of golf gear to carry along with you in your golf caddy.Whether you need a golf mat to practice in the comfort of your own home or your yard or you simply need something to eliminate the golf tee, you’ll find that the golf mat is a great tool to better your game. You’ll find that a golf mat is not necessary, no matter what type you are looking for, but golf is all about improving your personal game and every golf mat can help you do just that.

By Alex Bezborodko [ 09/03/2007 ][ viewed 47 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Square Drivers, Longer Balls, Golf GPS - Where will it end?

2008-01-24T23:11:00.000+07:00

I have to admit there is always a concern when a "way of life" with as much history as golf seems to become more and more influenced by new technology and trends. Is this as big a concern as the traditionalists would have us believe? Does technology undermine the challenge that golf presents?For me personally, the game of golf is the endless pursuit of trying to improve - and I do mean "endless"! Taking up golf in my 30's I started with the modest goal of breaking 100, now, 12 months later if I dont shoot around 90 I feel the need to harshly scold myself for such a poor performance even though I am still achieving my initial goal. The most teasing thing about the whole process was the time i shot 85, something which I of course I have never been able to replicate - I am sure you all know what I mean!Overall, I know that a percentage of my improvement can be attrributed to new equipment - I dont think there is a single remaining item from my orginal kit - and of course a large percentage also can be attributed to the hours spent at the driving range and putting in my living room (against all complaints form my wife!). At the end of the day though, I still cant wait to get out there again and find that next part of my game where I can shave another stroke. So for myself, even in the short time i have played the game technology has changed, yet i am still driven by something which is totally unrelated - the endless pursuit of beating myself. The new clubs and kit are mereley additional weapons in my arsenal which present similar value to thing such as local course knowledge and experience. If we then translate this to professional golf though, it would seem the benefits of technology start to become more distinct - driving distances even in my own period of observation seem to have been increased by about 25% - balls now travel further and stop faster and enhanced MOI's (moments of intertia) for drivers provide greater forgiveness for "off-centre" hits (not that would normally be a problem for Pro!!). Overall, professional golfer's are hitting longer and the opportunites for eagle are a regular occurrence on modern par 5's. That said, driving accuracy is down - but improved groove technology in irons means a golfer can hit form the rough and stop a ball on a green so the risks of big hitting are not proving as a deterrant to golfers getting the most out of the technology available to them.So what does this mean? Does this tehnological advantage detract from the game? For mine, i dont think i will ever be unimpressed by a drive being hit more than 300m and landing on a fairway 30m wide - and if the end result is a victory in which the golfer is 12 under par rather than 8 under par is the only difference then i think I can live with it. I guess the biggest concern from a hack like me who loves to be amazed be abilites of the professional golers is that if they keep adding distance to their drives and courses keep getting lengthened (as has started to happen), then i am going to find it even tougher to ever hit that 85 ever again!

By Jared Staniland [ 12/03/2007 ][ viewed 58 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Clone Golf Clubs -- Callaway Drivers for 2007

2008-01-24T23:09:00.000+07:00

This is your guide to find Callaway clone golf clubs, specifically drivers for the 2007 season, to suit your game, save you money, and utilize technology used by PGA professional golfers Phil Mickelson, Charles Howell III and golf legend Gary Player, among many other touring professionals.For 2007, Callaway Golf has introduced three new drivers: Fusion FT-i, Fusion FT-5 and Big Bertha 460. This is no surprise as all golf manufacturers must keep inventing new driver styles and technology advancements to stay competitive. Below you will find great choices of Callaway clone drivers for 2007.The Callaway Fusion FT-i Driver uses patented Fusion Technology which fuses titanium and a carbon composite material together to redistribute weight in the clubhead. This moves weight away from the center of gravity. Moving weight away from the center of gravity results in a driver with increased stability that maximizes distance and increases accuracy. This driver is the choice of golf Legend Gary Player.The following drivers offer you great alternatives to the Callaway Fusion FT-i Driver at a fraction of the price:Integra I-Drive Square Driver -- The square head design reduces twisting during off center hits and enlarges the hitting area which in turn increases forgiveness.Integra SoooLong Quadradic Driver -- The technology in this driver moves weight further back on the driver and more towards the heel and toe resulting in the square shape.Acer XP Mantara Titanium Driver -- This driver is designed to be very stable due to its square shape which moves the weight away from the center of gravity which results in exceptional control.The Callaway Fusion FT-5 Driver also uses patented Fusion Technology that creates discretionary weight which produces increased distance and accuracy. This is the driver Phil Mickelson and Charles Howell III are using to get off to such a great start to the 2007 season.Another great choice that fuses titanium and composite materials together and can save you money is:Acer XP Comp Titanium Driver -- In this driver they have replaced the heavier titanium on the crown with lightweight carbon graphite. This results in a lower center of gravity and higher launch angles.The Callaway Big Bertha 460 Driver is an all titanium driver designed with a shape close to the limits for width and length. This shape enables the incorporation of a 460cc head with a shallower face and flatter shape to produce the highest moment of inertia in any Callaway all titanium head.Other great all titanium Callaway driver clones include the following:Big Power 460cc Driver -- This large 460cc head stretches titanium for maximum forgiveness and balance with a shallower face and flatter crown.Big Balance 460cc Driver -- This is a 460cc forged titanium head constructed with a slightly more elongated shape which offers even more forgiveness and control.These are a few of the many Callaway clone golf clubs on the market today. With so many alternatives to choosing higher priced brand name clubs, considering clone golf clubs makes a lot of sense for many golfers.

By Darren Finger [ 14/03/2007 ][ viewed 47 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf Shopping Online

2008-01-24T23:06:00.000+07:00

Golf's Best Stores is an easy guide for finding the most popular golf shops and stores. You can find specialty shops, large sporting goods stores and walk-in retail sports centers. You can easily browse for the newest driver with the latest technology, an economical set of clubs, a better bag, personalized golfballs, nice shoes (people do notice), or the perfect shirt to impress your boss and buddies.Popular Sites to Visit Today:GigaGolfGigaGolf manufacture clubs under the GigaGolf label that are built to resemble many of the biggest brand models such as Callaway, Titleist, TaylorMade and Hogan. They build their clubs from quality component heads, shafts and grips and then sell them at a fraction of the price normally charged for namebrand models. You can get free shipping on orders over $99 along with a 30-day trial with an unconditional guarantee that you will like them or you can return them. Click below to visit.Logo White 468x60Pinemeadow GolfPinemeadow manufactures and ships thousands of custom-built clubs each day to consumers all over the world and they are considered to be one of the top online club distributor on the web today. They have a wide selection of titanium drivers, woods, irons, wedges, and putters that are all equipped with the highest quality heads, shafts and grips. Their prices are terrific and the clubs come with a 12-month warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Get free shipping on orders over $150.Pinemeadowgolf.com - Factory Direct Golf ClubsThe Golf WarehouseThis very popular golf shop is probably the busiest of the online sites. They stock a wide assortment of name brand gear. You can get clubs, bags, apparel, shoes, gifts and all the accessories. Top brands include Nike, Titleist, FootJoy, Ashworth, Callaway, Adidas, Etonic, Wilson, Mizuno and more.The Golf Warehouse for golfing gearEdwin Watts GolfThis longtime sports retailer has an online shop that stocks more than 1,000 items from over 75 top brands. They have top clubs, accessories, footwear and clothes. Find Adams, Ben Hogan, Bag Boy, Callaway, Cleveland, Dunlop, FootJoy, Izzo, Nike, Orlimar, TaylorMade, Titleist and plenty more.Edwin Watts Golf StoreGolfsmith.comThis large online and catalog store features a wide variety of top brands. Big selection of accessories and gear. Includes the helpful Clubmaker's Corner as well. Nice outlet department too.Name Brand Golf EquipmentDicks Sporting GoodsThe popular East Coast retailer also runs a busy online store as well. They stock all kinds of sports gear including all the necessities for golfers. You can find the popular name brands and helpful buyer's guides.Dick's Sporting Goods for Golf Gear and ApparelAustad's GolfAustad's Golf could be your preferred golf equipment headquarters. For over 40 years, they've had gear from all the major name brands.Austad's Golf HeadquartersThe Sports AuthorityProbably the biggest sporting goods retail chain in the U.S., this site is crammed with all kinds of brand name sports equipment. They offer good equipment from makers including Knight, Orlimar, Orbiter, MacGregor, Taylor Made, Wilson and Dunlop.Sporting Goods Store

By Laurie Raphael Raphael [ 16/03/2007 ][ viewed 57 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Find TaylorMade r7 Clone Drivers

2008-01-24T23:04:00.000+07:00

This is your guide to find TaylorMade r7 clone drivers to suit your game, save you money, and utilize technology used by professional golfers Retief Goosen, Sergio Garcia and Darren Clarke, among many other professional golfers.In recent times, TaylorMade Golf has introduced its r7 line of drivers: r7 Quad 460 Driver, r7 Quad 460 TP Driver and r7 Quad 425 Driver. This comes as no surprise as all golf club manufacturers must keep inventing new technology advancements and driver styles to stay viable. Below you will find a great selection of TaylorMade r7 driver clones.The TaylorMade r7 Quad 460 Driver offers the highest moment of inertia of any TaylorMade driver. This results in tremendous forgiveness and long, straight results on off-center hits. The Inverted Cone Technology in this driver dramatically expands the portion of the clubface that delivers high Coefficient of Restitution (COR) producing higher ball velocity and greater distances in drives. This driver comes with adjustable weights to alter the launch and face angle at impact to customize trajectory and maximize distance. The following clone golf drivers offer you great substitutes to the TaylorMade r7 Quad 460 Driver at a fraction of the price:Turner T5 Titanium Driver -- The SP 700 beta titanium face offers the latest technology in variable face thickness to maximize drives. Each player can optimize the driver with a weight configuration that is best for their game.Power Play System Q 455cc Driver -- The thin beta titanium face produces outstanding distance with control. The increased volume and broader shape makes this one of the steadiest drivers in golf. Tour Model T-8 460 Titanium Driver -- The beta titanium face of the T8 driver produces a spring effect to help launch your ball to great distances. The direction and trajectory are determined by how the golfer positions the 3 adjustable and interchangeable weights located in the head.The TaylorMade r7 Quad 460 TP Driver includes all the benefits of the r7 Quad 460 Driver with the added benefit of two additional weights. These weights (6-gram and 10-gram) can be used for shot manipulation and added control. Professional golfer Sergio Garcia chooses to have this driver in his bag.Two other great choices to harness this technology and can save you money are:Turbo Power Ti7 460cc Ti Driver -- Features a shallower, wider clubface to generate a higher trajectory and longer carry for extra distance. It also incorporates the moveable weighting system of Launch Control Technology. A 3-weight port system concentrates mass at the rear and to the sides, ideal for improving head stability and optimizing launch angle.Power Play System Q Tri-Port Driver -- This driver is a massive 460cc adjustable weight driver to help shape your shot in order for you to find more fairways to help lower your score. Each head is equipped with three interchangeable weights (two 3.5g and one 12g).The TaylorMade r7 Quad 425 Driver offers exceptionally high moment of inertia and forgiveness for consistently long, straight results. You can set this driver up to have six sets of launch conditions by utilizing 28 grams of movable weight using the four TLC ports. Inverted Cone Technology provides a larger area of the clubface to deliver higher ball velocity and greater distance, even on mis-hits. Professional golfer Retief Goosen used this driver to win the 2007 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters.Other great TaylorMade r7 Quad 425 Driver clones include the following:Turbo Power T9 Titanium Driver -- Pushes driver technology to the outer limits. The T9 Titanium Driver also includes two 4 gram titanium weights and one each of the 6 and 8 gram tungsten weights and one tool that is used to insert and remove the weights. There are numerous ways to configure your driver to optimize the trajectory and direction of each drive.Dynacraft Genesis Titanium Driver -- Allows for complete customization for both swing weight and directional control. Each driver includes an installed 10g tungsten screw in the heel, 6.5g stainless screw in the center and a 3.5g stainless screw in the toe. These screws are completely interchangeable to achieve desired swing weight and to fine tune for draw or fade bias.Of the TaylorMade clone golf clubs on the market today, these are just a few. With so many other choices besides higher priced brand name clubs, considering clone golf clubs makes a lot of sense for many golfers.

By Darren Finger [ 25/03/2007 ][ viewed 47 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Sergio Garcia Fined $2M for Horking into the Cup

2008-01-24T23:01:00.000+07:00

The Associated Press has announced today March 30, 2007 that the PGA of America in association with the R&A has fined Spanish golf professional Sergio Garcia $2M U.S. for spitting into the 13th hole at the Doral Golf and Country Club last Saturday March 24th during the third round of the CA World Golf Championship. Here is the official statement released by the Commissioner of the Professional Golf Association of America Tim Finchem:Tim Finchem: “Fellow golf addicts. As you are aware last Saturday at Doral Sergio Garcia was caught on camera by NBC horking a vile 3 foot 2 inch mass of gobule directly into the 13th hole. This unfortunate incident has now spiralled out of control. Noted golf blogger “Shanks” at travelgolf dot com and worldgolf dot com has already coined the incident “Loogiegate”. After Mr. Garcia horked into the cup on 13 his playing partner Tom Lehman hadn’t seen it and putted out. Upon retrieving his ball Tom Lehman noticed a large heap of sputum on his ball and reflexively vomited into the hole, the hole then overflowing onto the putting surface with Thomas’ undigested lunch. At this point Sergio’s caddy Fanny Sunesson began to laugh so hard that she shat herself. Play had to be held up for 30 minutes while the course superintendent Roger Kneelsworthy and his crew donned HazMat outfits and brought in fire hoses to rectify the situation so that play could resume.” “They say that golf is like life only on a larger scale. This coming Easter Sunday April 8 is Masters Sunday. The PGA and the R&A decided that we could not have Loogie Gate overshadowing the Masters Golf Tounament and so we decided to nip the situation in the bud by fining Sergio Garcia $2M for unprofessional conduct. The PGA and R&A have also enacted a new rule, rule 69A(i): ‘No player shall at any time intentionally or inadvertently spit into the hole. Such offence shall be punished by a 3 stroke penalty. Upon subsequent offense this shall result in immediate disqualification from the golf tounament, unless the player is Casey Martin. We aren’t interested in traveling to the Supreme Court of the United States again especially after the first golfer has packed the bench with hardliners.”“Normally the accused is given leniency if they confess and show expressions of remorse. This was not forthcoming in this case. Today Friday March 30, 2007 Pope Benedict XVI heard confession for the first time in Vatican City from 7 young Catholics from Erbil, Iraq. The 7 young people asked for forgiveness, each one representing each mortal sin. Then another 7 lighted a lamp near the crucifix of the Sistine Chapel. Individual confessions followed. Pope Benedict XVI was aided by 200 Priests from the Pontifical Basilicas and Diocese. Pope Benedict XVI stressed the importance of confession. Pope Benedict XVI said that ‘Humanity ever since its origins has been seduced by the Evil One.” Pope Bendict XVI called upon the youth of the world to live their lives ‘in the true love that comes with respect for one another, chaste and responsible.’ Pope Benedict XVI called upon the youth of today to ‘build a civilization of love”.“After the spitting incident Segio Garcia was interviewed by Jimmy Roberts of NBC. Sergio Garcia denied spitting into the cup. He claimed that the enormous drool accidentally fell out of his mouth into the 13th hole. Sergio said, “It’s no big deal.” After the final round Sergio Garcia spit venom at the television interviewer saying, “I apologized already, Are you embarrassed that I didn't spit today? Is that why you didn't have anything better to ask me?” “This coming week, Masters Week also falls on the Jewish Passover. The Messiah Jesus Christ was a Jewish Rabbi. The Last Supper was an occasion upon which Jesus and his disciples possibly including Mary Magdalene celebrated the freeing of the Jewish slaves from Egypt by the Heavenly Father at the Seder on the first night of Passover. The Gospel of Judas reveals that as a practical joke Judas the Messiah’s favorite disciple played a practical joke on Jesus by spitting into the Holy Grail while Jesus went to the loo. When Jesus returned and drank the wine from the cup he said, “Know now forevermore that whosoever shall spit into another man’s cup shall be condemned to hang from a tree.” (Judas 13:13).”

By Karen Fish [ 31/03/2007 ][ viewed 105 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf Tournament Planning: A Mini Guide To A Successful Golf Event

2008-01-24T22:58:00.000+07:00

The secret to plan a successful golf tournament is organization. Here's a mini step-by-step planner/guide for a successful Golf Event. The key to success is sticking to schedule, following your timeline and assigning responsibilities to the right people. Planning a golf tournament is much like organizing any other public event. 9 months prior to eventIt's time to sit down and start thinking about the project's objectives. You also have to recruit a team of people to help you with certain tasks. Who will they be? Who will be your director/chairperson? Choose wisely, then talk to that person about the project. Let him/her help you. This period is critical because you will start building the project's main base/foundation.6 months prior to eventAfter setting the main goals and deciding on the people who will take part in the project is time to create a timeline and set the main date event. Your timeline will be the most important part of your project plan.It is also the time to decide on several issues like the tournament's budget, any potential sponsors, your guest stars/celebrities, whether you will create a website for your golf tournament etc.Now it's the right time to assign some responsibilities. Who will calculate the exact budget? Who will mail the potential sponsors? who will get in touch with the guest stars? who will create and manage the website?You also have to decide on the place where the event will take place. This is also important. Talk to your team of professionals. Decide on the place. Then it's your responsibility to perform frequent site inspections to make sure everything is going according to schedule.3 months prior to eventThings are warming up now. It's time to boost your engines. Here is when you have to work on the player's contracts. You also have to inform the players about the methods of payment. What you need a good lawyer to take care of the contracts and all that stuff. Sign the contracts and have your team prepare the invitation list and mail the invitations. Double check everyone's got their invitation. Take some time to look at your website and update it with the breaking news.Time to advertise too. Start with press releases. Check with your sponsors for any deals. Inform all media about the golf tournament. Maybe you should create some video about the event and post it on web or create a TV or radio spot for more exposure. Also newspapers and magazines related to golf. Look for some deals with them. Remember to consult your team before closing any deal.Select the type of your awards. This is one of the good parts of golf tournament planning. After ordering the awards, meet with your accountant to finalize your budget. 45 days prior to eventBy now you should know who will take part in the golf tournament and the members of the guest list. You have already published your invitations so it's time to make a plan on how to welcome your players and your guests. Talk with your team about the golf tournament rules. Decide on the final agenda. Maybe it's time to hire a photographer and order a significant amount of T-shirts, shoes, gloves and the rest of the equipment needed.Don't forget to take the safety of the people seriously, especially that of the players. That's why it's a good idea to plan a couple of aid stations across the area to ensure safety of the people. Also discuss about the tournament security staff.Do you have any serious sponsors by your side? If you haven't discussed yet, it's time to think of a deal that will benefit you both. 7 days prior to event until the day of the eventAs I said this is only a mini-guide offering just a plain overview of planning a golf tournament. The main purpose of this article is motivational. I would need 100 articles like this one to go into details so I don't have to say a lot about the week prior to the event or the day of the event. By now, you should have finalize all critical matters. If you reach this level and everything is working fine then you have nothing to worry about. Don't overdo it during the last week, save your powers/energy for the day of the event.

By Maria Markella [ 02/04/2007 ][ viewed 74 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

10 Quick Tips To Improve Your Golf Game

2008-01-24T22:54:00.000+07:00

Golf is a sport that attracts such a wide audience. Unlike other sports, golf is a game that one can participate in regardless of age or limits due to physical condition. As a fellow golf professional I instruct golfers of all ages and abilities. In my experience there are many common mistakes that most golfers make. Here is a list of 10 tips that will help improve your game.1. Grip Pressure. Grip pressure and arm tension is something that all golfers fight. On a scale of 1 to 10, feel like you’re holding the club at a level 3. Golf is hard enough to play relaxed; tighten up and you won’t have a chance.2. Set Up. So many times students say there is a problem in their swing. 90% of the time the problem is in their set-up. This usually results in poor posture. Make sure that your back is straight to allow for proper trunk rotation.3. Alignment. Alignment is so important. Make sure that the line of your feet is parallel to your target line. Then make sure your knees, hips and shoulders are parallel to your feet. 4. Tempo and Balance. Tempo and balance go together like peanut butter and jelly. When you have the proper tempo, you create good balance. If you can finish a swing on balance, you have a much higher chance of getting a good result than if you are falling off balance during the swing. 5. Take One Extra Club. Leave your ego at home. Take an extra club and swing it 80%. Your balance will get better and you will start hitting more solid shots.6. Loosen Up Before The Round. Loosening up allows you to relax and get some of the bad shots out. It also allows you to get familiar with the speed of the greens. Most importantly, it loosens up your body to prevent muscular injury. 7. Make An Aggressive Swing At A Conservative Target. Follow this advice, it really works. 8. Swing The Club; Don’t Hit The Ball. Amateur golfers hit the ball. Swing the club through the ball to a picturesque finish. 9. Don’t Keep Your Head Down. Where is your head when you finish your golf swing? Keep your head up through the swing and let your body turn through to the target. 10. Spend 70% Of Your Practice Within 50 Yards Of The Pin. This is not the fun part of the game to practice but this is the fastest way to cut strokes off your game. If you have any further questions, consult your local PGA Professional.

By Marc Spencer [ 09/04/2007 ][ viewed 54 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Zach Johnson’s Easter Masters Miracle and the Prophet Zechariah

2008-01-24T22:52:00.000+07:00

The Old Testament is the Holy Scripture of Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The Jewish Rabbi Jesus Christ is the awaited Messiah of Christianity and Islam. (Koran 3:40-43). Yesterday, April 8, 2007, Easter 2007, Pope Benedict XVI said, “Brothers and sisters in faith, who are listening to me from every part of the world! Christ is risen and he is alive among us. It is he who is the hope of a better future.” After winning the Masters yesterday Zach Johnson said, “My Christian faith is very important to me. It was very special to win the Masters golf tournament on Easter Sunday. I am very blessed. I would like to thank God. I felt Jesus Christ with me on the golf course every step of the way.” By stroking Zach’s putts coming down the stretch Jesus has certainly given Zach Johnson a brighter future. Now Zach Johnson can choose next year’s Champion’s Dinner menu. Imagine being able to tell Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer what to eat at Augusta.Zach Johnson is named after the Biblical Prophet of Christianity, Islam and Judaism Prophet Zechariah the son of the golden Berechiah the son of Iddo. The last time that Zach Johnson’s putter was this hot was when he won the last three events on the 2001 NGA Hooters Tour. Name the other 7 Major Champions who played on the NGA Hooters Tour. Name the real biological father of Hooter’s Girl. You needed to be a Biblical Prophet to bet that Zach Johnson would win the Masters yesterday at 1000 to 1 at Caesar’s Palace. Zach Johnson has come a long way since the Nationwide Tour’s 2003 Rheem Classic. Chris Couch won the 2005 Rheem Classic. Prophecy is when God of Mount Sinai aka Jesus Christ aka God the Father aka The Holy Spirit aka Elohim aka Yehovah aka Allah tells the future to a human being. The question is “How does God know the future if it hasn’t happened yet?” Michelangelo painted the Prophet Zechariah on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel where Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Easter this week. The Hebrew Prophet Zechariah lived in 520 BC during the reign of King Darius of Persia (Iran) 16 years after the Jewish people began to return to Israel after their exile in Babylon (Iraq). The address of the NGA Hooters Tour is 1211 Hwy 17 N North Myrtle Beach South Carolina 29582. 2527 years ago the Prophet Zechariah said, “In the night I saw a man riding on a red horse! He was standing among the myrtle trees in the glen.” (Zech. 1:8). The rider was with 2 other men, one on a white horse and one on a sorrel horse. These were the men who God had sent to patrol the earth and the whole earth was at peace. The men’s and ladies’ golf tours are where people from all over the world play peacefully together by the same rules.Zach Johnson is a short hitter but a spectacular putter. He laid up 16 times on Augusta’s par 5’s and walked away with 11 birdies. The Prophet Zechariah said, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, says the Lord of Hosts.” (Zech. 4:6). “I looked up and saw a man with a measuring line in his hand.” (Zech. 2:1). “I see a lampstand all of gold with a bowl on the top of it.” (Zech. 4:2). After his round Zach Johnson was hugged and kissed by his wife who was holding his baby son Will. The Prophet Zechariah said, “Then I looked up and saw two women coming forward. The wind was in their wings; they had wings like the wings of a stork and they lifted up the basket between earth and sky.” (Zech. 5:9). The most treasured prize in golf is the Masters green jacket. Yesterday defending champion Phil Mickelson anointed and clothed Zach Johnson in his new green jacket in the Butler Cabin. The Prophet Zechariah said, “The High Priest Joshua (Jesus’ Hebrew name was Joshua) was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. The angel said to those who were standing before him, ‘Take off his filthy clothes.’ And to him he said, ‘See I have taken your guilt and sin away from you and I will clothe you in festal apparel…So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him in the festal apparel. And the angel of the Lord was standing by.” (Zech. 3:4-5). After his Masters victory Zach Johnson said, “I felt Jesus Christ with me on the golf course every step of the way.”

By Karen Fish [ 10/04/2007 ][ viewed 103 times ]

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Golfing the Back Nine at Crooked Creek near Lincoln, Nebraska

2008-01-23T21:38:00.000+07:00

In a previous article, we went through the front nine on this course. The front nine was acceptable and ended up shooting 10 over par. Keep in mind this is the second round of the year for me. The first round was 2 weeks ago, so a little rust was getting worked out on the front nine. My stroke is starting to come together and I usually play better on the back nine than the front nine when I golf. At this point, I am looking forward to the back nine and a better nine than the front nine.I should mention that I use discount golf clubs, but they are custom golf clubs that were built to my specifications. I figure these clone golf clubs save me money and work just as well as higher priced name-brnd golf clubs. My driver and woods are getting a little old and I may have to start looking at some new ones. My clone golf irons are all only a year old. They are comparable in performance to the Nike Slingshot irons.The back nine starts with a par 4 that measures around 375 yards and is handicapped at number 12. From the tee box, the tee shot is downhill heading straight south. I used a driver off the tee and ended up about 135 yards from the green in the fairway. This is starting off the back nine in great fashion! I used a 9 iron from there that ended up off the right side of the green about pin high. I used my pitching wedge from there to within 8 feet of the pin. I putted in for a par. Definitely starting the back nine off on the right foot!Number 11 is another par 4 that is playing about 400 yards. It is handicapped at number 10. A driver off the tee sails down to the fairway below and leaves about 145 yards. The only problem is that it is on the right side in the rough. There is a creek that runs about 50 yards in front of the green. This shouldn’t be a problem for my 8 iron, that I usually figure will go about 150 yards. The shot ends up about 13 yards short of the pin in front of the green in the fairway. My pitching wedge gets the golf ball to within 13 foot of the pin. One putt and I walk away with a par. Another nice up and down!Number 12 is a par 3 that is measuring about 140 yards today. The handicap on this hole is a 14. This hole always seems to play longer than the yardage, so I will use my 8 iron off the tee. The tee shot lands the green leaving a 40 foot putt. The putt ends up 10 foot short and the following putt leaves 4 inches. A tap in putt and I walk away with a bogey. This is the first bogey of the back nine.Hole 13 is a par 5 handicapped at 4th hardest on the course that is narrow and has a creek running across it about 350 yards out. It is playing about 530 yards long today. I use my driver and end up about 290 yards from the green in the middle of the fairway. My 3 wood gets me to right at 100 yards out and in the fairway. I like this hole so far. I use my pitching wedge and take a little off. A full pitching wedge goes about 120 yards. One hop and the golf ball goes in the hole for an EAGLE! My first ever eagle. I really like how this hole played.Number 14 is a par 4 that measures 340 yards. This hole is handicapped at 16 on the course. It dog legs left at about 240 yards out. There is water on the left and right. I use my 3 wood and place the tee shot 115 yards out in the middle of the fairway. My tee shots are finding great success so far. A pitching wedge ends up on the right just off the green and pin high. I use my pitching wedge again to get within 2 feet of the hole. A tap in par and hole 14 is in the books.OK, time for another gem from one of my golfing buddies: I can always tell when you’re drinking, you start to look blurry.Hole 15 is a par 3 that plays up to a green that slopes away and to the right. This hole is handicapped as the easiest hole on the course, but always plays hard for me. It is protected by sand in the right front and always plays longer than the distance. Today, that distance measures around 140 yards. I use my 8 iron and come up about 25 yards short of the green on the left. The sand must have scared me. I use a sand wedge and end up about 3 feet from the pin on the high side. My putt ends up 3 inches past the hole. A tap in and the hole end up a bogey. This hole is somewhat disappointing after the round so far, but I still feel good about my play.Number 16 is a par 4 that tees off down to an open fairway and is handicapped at number 8. This is a slight dog leg right with the green guarded by a sand bunker on the front right. The hole measures about 360 yards. My driver finds the fairway and leaves about 105 yards left to the green. I hit my pitching wedge fat and end up in the darn sand bunker in the front of the green. This leaves another great opportunity to play out of the sand. My sand wedge out of the sand ends up 4 foot from the hole. I am definitely gaining confidence getting out of the sand. The subsequent putt ends up 2 inches past the hole. A tap in and I walk away with a par!Hole 17 is a par 4 that measures 380 yards uphill and is the sixth hardest hole on the course according to the handicapping. My driver off the tee ends up slicing badly off to the right. I estimate that I am 150 yards out and use my 8 iron. The swing and contact with the golf ball all felt good. I must have not estimated the distance right, as this shot ends up about 40 yards short of the green. The green slopes away and to the left. There is sand on the left, so that should be out of play from where I am shooting. My pitching wedge sends the golf ball to within 18 feet. The first putt ends up about 2 foot past the hole. A tap in from there gives me a bogey. This is probably a good score from off the fairway.The last hole is a par 5 measuring 530 yards. This number 2 handicapped hole gently dog legs right all the way to the green. My driver off the tee finds the fairway and leaves about 300 yards. My 3 wood from the fairway pushes the golf ball out to the right in the rough and about 75 yards from the green. My sand wedge ends up on the fringe of the green and about 30 feet away from the pin. I putt to within 7 foot and then putt 2 foot past the hole. I putt the last one in for a bogey.As I add up the score, I end up with a 2 over for the back nine. I am very pleased with this back nine, especially the eagle on the par 5 13th hole. I would like to figure out why I shoot better on the back nine and how to do the same on the front nine. I feel like I warm up enough, but maybe I need a bit more. The total for the 18 holes is 12 over. This is much better than my normal goal of bogey golf. I am really looking forward to this season. Until next week, I hope all your drives find the fairway and all your putts find the bottom of the hole.

By Kevin Fairbanks [ 13/04/2007 ][ viewed 50 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Some of the Benefits of Playing Golf

2008-01-23T21:36:00.000+07:00

If you are competitive person then the game of golf could be for you. Golf is about winning and trying to improve your game. The competitive person will always want to add some distance to their tee shots, try to have fewer strokes during a round and always chasing a hole in one. The game of golf definitely fulfills the needs of a competitive person.There are more benefits than just those listed above. These benefits include playing and interacting with other people, exercise for golf and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.Exercise for golfOne of the best things and a great beneficial by-product of playing the game of golf is the exercise that you will receive. Walking a golf course from hole to hole, and tee to green is approximately 4 to 6 miles. Not only are you walking but you are also swinging the golf club and carrying the golf bag.There are basically two types of overall exercise categories. Those categories are moderate and vigorous. Golf can be considered as a moderate type of workout activity. It is estimated that for every one hour spent playing golf an individual can burn 370 calories. This estimate is based on that individual being a male, weighing 154 pounds and standing at 5'10" tall.Interaction With OthersAnother benefit of playing golf is the friendships and interactions that are developed on the golf course. Generally, golfers team up in pairs or play their golf game with three other individuals. This foursome provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to interact with each. This interaction is usually highlighted through the telling of jokes, the sharing of stories, conducting business, getting to know each other in an informal setting, etc. All of this is conducted in a non-threatening, but competitive environment. This type of interaction will prove to be therapeutic as well as an opportunity to bond with other individuals.Enjoy the beautiful outdoors while playing golfOne of the best things about playing golf is you have the opportunity to walk on some beautiful golf courses as well as the outdoors and take in all of the natural surroundings. On a golf course you can start to really take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds you, plus breathe in the fresh air.Another great benefit of playing the game of golf is that you can find plenty of time to think. Walking the golf course can give you a chance to start to focus on some of the simple things in life. Golf also provides an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. It gives you time to reflect on what is really important. It allows you to shed all of the stress that you may get in your workplace or in other stressful environments. Some of the stress could be from work or can even be some problems that you're facing that home.Being outside and enjoying the game of golf is an ideal way to relax. Even though the game can provide its own stress you can really reflect on what is important to you. Walking the beautiful green grass, enjoying the surrounding environment, breathing in the fresh air, allows a person to clear the mind.For more information on this topic as well as other golf related topics or products visit:

By Steve Madigan [ 13/04/2007 ][ viewed 61 times ]

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All Day Golf - Anatomy of a good golf course part 2 of 2

2008-01-23T21:29:00.000+07:00

Putting Green:To putt means to play a stroke, usually, but not always on the green, where the ball does not leave the ground. Once on the green, the ball is putted (struck with a flat faced club which makes the ball roll along the ground) towards the hole until the ball comes to rest in the cup. The grass of the putting green (or more commonly the green) is cut very short so that a ball can roll easily over distances of several yards. The direction of growth of individual blades of grass often affects the roll of a golf ball and is called the grain. The slope of the green, called the break, also affects the roll of the ball. The cup is always found within the green (at least ten feet from the edge), and must have a diameter of 108 mm (4.25 in.) and a depth of at least 100 mm (3.94 in.). Its position on the green is not static and may be changed from day to day. The cup usually has a flag on a pole positioned in it so that it may be seen from some distance, but not necessarily from the tee. This flag and pole combination is often called the pin.Putting greens are not of all the same quality. Generally, the finest quality greens are well kept so that a ball will roll smoothly over the closely mowed grass. Golfers describe a green as being "fast" if a light stroke of the ball allows it to roll a long distance. Conversely, a green is termed "slow" if a stronger stroke is required to roll the ball the required distance.Out of Bounds:The borders of a course are marked as such, and beyond them is out of bounds, that is, ground from which a ball must not be played. If a golfer hits the ball out of the course, into the "out of bounds", the player must hit a ball from nearly the same position as the original ball was played, with a penalty of one stroke.Other Areas:Some areas on the course may be designated as ground under repair, or "G.U.R.". This is a part of the course where repairs are being made by greenkeepers, or there is damage to the course. A ball coming to rest in this spot may be lifted and then played from outside such ground without penalty. Certain man-made objects on the course are defined as obstructions (i.e. Distance posts, gardens etc.), and specific rules determine how a golfer may proceed when the play is impeded by these.Driving Range:Practice range with 43 tees (20 covered)Often there is a practice range or driving range, usually with practice greens, bunkers, and driving areas. Markers showing distances are usually included on a practice range to benefit the golfer. There may even be a practice course (which is often easier to play or shorter than other golf courses). A golf school is often associated with a course or club.We invite you to South Africa for your next golf holiday.

By Rael Zieve [ 15/04/2007 ][ viewed 43 times ]

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All Day Golf - Anatomy of a good golf course - part 1 of 2

2008-01-23T21:25:00.000+07:00

Tee for the first hole at The Links at Spanish BayGolf is played on an area of land designated as the course. The course consists of a series of holes. A hole means both the hole in the ground into which the ball is played (also called the cup), as well as the total distance from the tee (a pre-determined area from where a ball is first hit) to the green (the low cut area surrounding the actual hole in the ground). Most golf courses consist of eighteen holes.Teeing Ground:The first stroke on each hole is hit from the Tee (officially, teeing ground), where the player can use a tee (a small wooden or plastic peg), which makes the tee shot easier. Before the modern tee came into use, early golfers often used a small pyramid of sand to hold the ball. Most courses offer a range of Tee boxes to play from depending on a player's skill or handicap, making the hole longer or shorter depending on which Tees the player starts at. Often, the different Tee boxes have names associated with degree of competence (e.g., Professional and Amateur Tees), or by sex and age (Men's, Ladies', Senior, etc.). In addition to a difference in distance, the different Tees may also eliminate or reduce the danger of some hazards for the "Forward" tees, such as water hazards. Teeing grounds on most golf courses are relatively flat, in order for the golfer to have a perfect lie for the first shot on a hole.Fairway & Rough:After teeing off, a player hits the ball towards the green again from the position at which it came to rest, either from the fairway or from the rough. Exceptions are short par three holes, where the second shot may lie directly on the putting green or in the rough. Playing the ball from the fairway is an advantage because the fairway grass is kept very short and even, allowing the player to cleanly strike the ball, while playing from the rough is a disadvantage because the grass in the rough is generally much longer and the player doesn't have as good of an idea as how the ball will fly out of the rough.While many holes are designed in a straight line from the tee-off point to the green, some of the holes may bend somewhat to the left or right. This is called a "dogleg," referencing the partial bend at the knee of a dog's leg. The hole is called a "dogleg left" if the hole angles to the left, and vice versa. On rare occasions, a hole's direction can bend twice. This is called a "double dogleg."Hazards:Many holes include hazards, which may be of three types: 1) Water hazards such as lakes, rivers, etc. 2) Man made hazards such as bunkers and 3) Lateral Hazards such as dense vegetation areas, bushland or gardens. Special rules apply to playing balls that come to rest in a hazard. For example, in a hazard, a player must not touch the ground with his club before playing a ball, not even for a practice swing. A ball in any type of hazard may be played as it lies without penalty. If it cannot be played from the hazard for any reason, the ball may be hit from another location, generally with a penalty of one stroke. Exactly where the ball may be played outside a hazard is governed by strict rules. Bunkers (or sand traps) are hazards from which the ball is more difficult to play than from grass. As in a water hazard, a ball in a sand trap must be played without previously touching the sand with the club.We invite you to South Africa for your next golf holiday.

By Rael Zieve [ 15/04/2007 ][ viewed 38 times ]

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All Day Golf - Where will i find the Par in Golf

2008-01-23T21:22:00.000+07:00

A hole is classified by its par. Par is the number of strokes that a skilled golfer should require to complete the hole. For example, a skilled golfer expects to reach the green on a par four hole in two strokes, one from the tee (his "drive"), another one to the green (his "approach"), and then roll the ball into the hole with two putts. A golf hole is traditionally either a par three, four, or five. A few par six holes now exist, but will not be found on a traditional golf course.The par of a hole is primarily, but not exclusively, determined by the distance from tee to green. A typical length for a par three hole is anywhere between 91 and 224 m (100 and 250 yds.), for a par four, between 225 and 434 m (251 and 475 yds.). Par five holes are typically at between 435 and 630 m (476 and 690 yds.), and untraditional par six holes are anything longer. These distances are not absolute rules. For example, it is possible that a 500 yard hole could be classed as a par four since the par for a hole is determined by its 'effective playing length.' If tee to green on a hole is predominantly downhill, it will play shorter than its physical length and may be given a lower par.Many 18-hole courses have approximately four par-three, ten par-four, and four par-five holes, though other combinations exist and are not less worthy than courses of par 72. Many major championships are contested on courses playing to a par of 70 or 71, and it's not rare to find a worthy test (especially in the British Isles) playing to a par of 69 or lower. In many countries courses are classified by a course rating in addition to the course's par. This rating describes the difficulty of a course and may be used to calculate a golfer's playing handicap for that individual course.We invite you to South Africa for your next golf holiday.

By Rael Zieve [ 15/04/2007 ][ viewed 45 times ]

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Golfing The Front Nine At Crooked Creek Near Lincoln, Nebraska

2008-01-22T23:20:00.000+07:00

This is actually the second round of golf for the 2007 year and was played on March 30, 2007. I usually play once a week during the golfing year and am around a bogey golfer. I have not ever calculated a handicap as I am not that serious a golfer. I enjoy being out in the open away from everything and getting fresh air. I normally golf with 2 other co-workers who don’t keep score and don’t necessarily follow golfing etiquette or rules.The first hole is a par 4. We will be using the orange tees, which are one less than the longest blue tees. Later in the year, we will start hitting from the long tees once we get into the season. This hole is about 400 yards straight south with a slight slope down to the green. The handicap on this hole is a 5, so this is the 5th hardest hole on the course. This may be due to the fact that normal winds would be from the south, so you would be hitting into that wind. Today, there is not much wind to speak of at the first tee.OK, before we tee off, the group ahead of us must be either really bad or just started golfing. The group is teeing off from the blue tees and at least half of them didn’t make it past the women’s tee box. This might be a long round. To show how serious we are, the first joke at the tee goes like this: “After the golfer hit his shot only 20 yards off the tee, the fellow golfer immediately noted the obvious problem. He stated that his fellow duffer was standing too close to the golf ball after he hit it.” Think about it for a second and you will get it.I used a driver off the tee. I have a discount, clone golf driver that has a loft of 9.5 degree. It was fitted to me, and I finally figured out how to hit it early last year. I drove it right down the center in the fairway about 250 yards. This left me with 150 yards to the pin, down hill. My 8 iron is my 150 yard club, so this was an ideal spot for me. I hit the golf ball pin high, but off the green to the left about 45 feet. I used a pitching wedge to within 15 feet of the golf hole and two putted. This gave me a bogey for the hole. Average for me, but I felt I was in good position off the drive. I had a little draw on my 8-iron and this took the ball off the left side of the green.Hole number 2 is another par 4 that is a dog leg left. It is about 390 yards long and handicapped as the third hardest hole on the golf course. I used a 3 wood off the tee and pushed it a little to the right off the fairway in the rough. Again, this left me about 150 yards out. I again went to my 8 iron, but ended up short in the sand bunker guarding the front of the green. My sand play is not the best, so I am always disappointed to be in the sand. I again didn’t hit my 8 iron well, but it was on line to the pin. I hit out of the sand bunker with my sand wedge past the pin about 23 feet. I putted to 8 feet, then putted 3 feet past and then holed it on the third putt. This gave me a double bogey, which was really a disappointment, again. I was out in the nice weather, though, so it wasn’t all bad.Hole number 3 is a short par 4 with a dog leg right just at the end of the fairway and guarded by water on the right in front of the green. It is handicapped at 11 for the course. I used a 3 iron off the tee to stay short of the water and hopefully give myself about 130 to 150 yards to the green. I ended up on the right side of the fairway about 136 yards out. Just what I was planning! This is just right for a hard 9 iron, so that is what I pulled from the golf bag. Unfortunately, I put 2 straight in the water. The third ended up about 40 feet from the hole on the green. I putted to within 2 feet and then putted in the hole. By my calculation, I took a 7 for a triple bogey. Real disappointment, but I played from the tee exactly like I wanted and putted well.The next hole is number 4 and is a par 3 about 130 yards long. The handicap on this hole is a 17, so plays quite easy. I used a 9 iron and hit the green within 21 feet of the pin. Putted to within 2 feet and putted in for a par! Now things are looking up.Hole number 5 is a par 5 about 415 yards long and is handicapped at number 9. I used my driver and hit the cart path which gave me a little extra distance. I ended up about 150 yards from the pin, but behind some trees. I used my 8 iron and hit a branch, but ended up in the middle of the fairway about 75 yards out. I used my pitching wedge and ended up on the right side of the green, but on within 26 feet of the pin. Putted to within 7 feet, then putted 3 feet past. Putted it in and took a bogey. I need to get my putting stroke down.The next hole is number 6. It is a par 4 about 350 yards long. It is handicapped at number 13. I used my driver and muffed it out to the left rough with about 220 yards to go to the hole. I used a 6 iron to about 50 yards out. A sand wedge got me to the left edge of the green and a 32 foot putt. Putted to 3 feet and then in for another bogey.Number 7 is a 320 yard par 4 and handicapped at 15. I used a driver and hit to within about 50 yards of the green right in the middle of the fairway! A pitching wedge ended up about 2 foot off the front of the green. Putted to within 1 foot of the hole and tapped in for my first par of the round!Hole number 8 is a par 3 about 167 yards long and over a ditch. It is handicapped at number 7. I used a 4 iron into a slight breeze. The tee shot ended up off the right side of the green about 40 yards out in the rough just past pin high. I used a sand wedge and landed on the green about 40 foot from the pin. Putted to within 4 feet and then putted in for another bogey.The number one handicapped hole is number 9. It is a par 5 playing about 495 yards today. I used a driver and pushed the tee shot out right and ended up in the number 1 fairway with about 320 yards to go to the green. I used a 3 wood and hit to the left edge of the fairway about 100 yards out from the green. Actually, the golf ball ended up about 2 inches into the rough off the fairway. I used a pitching wedge to the middle of the green and about 36 feet from the pin. Putted to 8 foot and putted to 1inch. I tapped it into the hole for another bogey.By my calculations, I played the front nine at 10 over par. This is about normal for my golf round where I expect to shoot around bogey. Now on to the back nine.

By Kevin Fairbanks [ 18/04/2007 ][ viewed 54 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Selecting a Golf Video or DVD to Advance Your Game

2008-01-22T23:18:00.000+07:00

There is no doubt about it, the golf video and DVD business is booming as some of the great names in golf release training and advice on these mediums. The great thing is, the golf video and DVD business not only stands to benefit those that make and produce the products, a lot can be learned from these videos for those that are up and coming and even those that golf for fun. Golf is a sport that is always in progress, you can always get better, improve your accuracy, your stance, your grip and a million other things, so why not learn from the comfort of your own home from a golf video? Improving your golf game may truly be as simple as popping that DVD into your DVD player at home and sitting back to watch.You’ve no doubt seen a golf swing video, golf instruction video, or golf tip video as you browse through your favorite golf shop. As much as you may have scoffed at the newest and most popular Tiger Woods golf swing video, you might want to pick it up. A video golf lesson by one of these professionals can provide some enlightenment as to how they became as good as they are, and little tips that will help you improve instantly. What if a golf instructional video could tell you how to hold your club better so that you had a more accurate golf game? Surprisingly, it really can be that simple. If you are having a hard time with your stance and body position, a video can help you take some step by step actions to improving your stance so that your whole golf game will benefit.The great thing about these instructional videos is that you can create your own library. The thing is, during your time playing golf you may struggle with things from time to time, though you had once perfected them. Your golf video library will allow you to go back and pull out the video or DVD that applies to your problem and get right on top of it. Your golf video and DVD library will not only help you out in the future if you need to review a certain tape or section of a tape, it may also help the friends or acquaintances that you golf with from time to time.Golf videos may also introduce you to other great products such as training aides that will help improve you game as well. Many of the professional golf instructional videos will mention specific training aids that will help you improve your swing, your chipping, your stance, or whatever you feel you need to work on. A video is often the first step in improving your game and is generally worth all of the money you will pay for them because you’ll review the information again and again.If you aren’t sure where to view the best golf video selection you can always go to your local video store or you can get on the Internet. Many of the online vendors have the best selection because they won’t just carry the big names in golf, or the most popular videos, they’ll have a wide selection that will allow you to learn from the best sources for you. Golfing is a game that is a lot of fun, but it also challenging and can even be frustrating when you can’t figure out what you are doing wrong. A great golf video or DVD can help make the game of golf fun for you again, even though it is challenging.

By Alex Bezborodko [ 18/04/2007 ][ viewed 47 times ]

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Why You Should Golf in Ireland

2008-01-22T23:16:00.000+07:00

Golf in Ireland is a big sport. Best known for its rolling green hills and leprechauns as well as for its beer, Ireland is the ideal country for a golfing vacation. Home to some of the world's best designed courses, this country offers more than just Guinness in the clubhouse. The reasons to golf in Ireland are numerous, from the amazing courses to the championships held there and more. Let's take a look at more reason you should consider golf in Ireland.Ireland has long been famous for its incredible landscapes and love of drinking, but it is now also becoming famous in the golf circuit. International visitors love to golf in Ireland. The culture is fascinating to anyone, not just golfers, and the views are to die for, and rolling hills make for a challenging game and seaside links add charm to the average golf round.Boasting championship golf courses and such famous golf clubs as the K Club, where the 2006 Ryder Cup was held, and Ballybunion, as well as Rosapenna. These world-class clubs are an ideal reason to golf in Ireland, no matter what country you hail from. In fact, they are visited by pro and amateur golfers alike from around the world. Made popular through the various championships held in Ireland, these courses now feature a growing number of touring golfers. In 2011, Ireland will also be hosting the Solheim Cup, adding to the country's fame as a golf destination.In fact, tour golf in Ireland is a great way to try various courses and get a feel for the country as a whole, not just one part of it. There are many businesses online that will happily set up a golf in Ireland tour where your accommodations, greens fees and transport is all taken care of, all you have to do is show up! Some specialize in hitting the courses most used in championships while others aim to give the golfer an overall taste of golf in Ireland.Golf in Ireland is a great way to get out of the country and enjoy a new golfing destination. Whether you choose a course by the rugged cliffs and sea or a rolling green in front of a famous castle, you will enjoy golf in Ireland as much as the locals do. It is a beautiful country with much to offer and the golf courses are just part of its amazing charm.

By Steve Katz [ 24/04/2007 ][ viewed 39 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Now Everyone can Afford to Buy New Golf Clubs

2008-01-22T23:14:00.000+07:00

The high price of golf clubs has kept many weekend hackers from taking advantage of the new technologies in golf equipment. TourGolfClubs has changed that with the introduction of a line of golf clubs that rivals the name brands in features and performance, but at a fraction of the price.In the past the introductions of the golf clubs with new game improving technologies have been left to the wealthy. Most golfers can't afford to spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars to upgrade their old equipment. The technological advancement of new metals has allowed many golf club manufacturers to improve club performance by a creating a thinner club face and redistributing the weight of the golf club. The repositioning of the weight lowers the center of gravity of the golf club which provides lower spin rates and greater distance. These new designs have also allowed golf club manufacturers to increase the sweet spot of the clubs providing a more forgiving and consistent golf shot.The top golf club manufacturers, like Ping, Taylormade, Callaway and Titliest have all recently retooled their entire line of clubs to take advantage of these new technologies. Golfers that purchased golf clubs 4 plus years ago are finding that they are at a disadvantage compared to many golfers using these newer golf clubs.TourGolfClubs.com has provided hope to many of these golfers by offering an inexpensive line of golf clubs that uses these new technologies. Most golf clubs offered by TourGolfClubs are more the seventy five percent less expensive then the comparable name brand club. Every product TourGolfClubs makes feature the game improvement technologies and design concepts which will make you a better golfer - cavity back irons, perimeter weighting, low center of gravity. The only difference many of you will see in their golf clubs and the name brand ones are the price.For more information,

By David Laible [ 25/04/2007 ][ viewed 43 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How to maintain your golf cart's batteries

2008-01-22T23:11:00.000+07:00

Serious, even dangerous threats can eventuate by improperly maintaining your golf cart's batteries. A lack of knowledge about basic golf cart battery maintenance can lead to all kinds of problems. Some users assume that the batteries that operate their golf carts are maintenance-free. However, the key to achieving optimum performance and long life is a solid golf cart battery maintenance program.It is recommended that you obtain the following equipment for use in a Golf Cart Battery Maintenance Program A wrench; distilled water; a voltmeter (an instrument used for measuring the voltage between two points in an electric circuit); a hydrometer (a tool used to measure the specific gravity of the electrolyte solution); a post cleaner; some baking soda; petroleum jelly and possibly the most of all - goggles and gloves.Always wear protective clothing, acid proof gloves and goggles when handling lead acid batteries and remove all jewellery. It's important to have lots of water and baking soda nearby as this will neutralise any acid spills from battery refilling and prevent further corrosive damage. Remember, the electrolyte is a solution of acid and water, so skin contact should be avoided and, do not smoke near batteries and never add acid to a battery. Golf carts are typically powered by six lead-acid batteries mounted beneath the front seat.First of all, examine the outside appearance of the batteries. You should look for cracks in the container and the top of the battery. Posts and connections should be free of dirt, fluids and corrosion. You should replace any damaged batteries. Check that all vent caps are tight. Then clean the battery top with a cloth or brush and a solution of baking soda and water ensuring that any cleaning solution or any other foreign matter does not get inside the battery. Then rinse with clean water and dry with a clean cloth. Solvents or spray cleaners should not be used. Then clean the battery terminals and the inside of the cable clamps with a post and clamp cleaner. Reconnect the clamps to the terminals and thinly coat them with petroleum jelly. Always keep the area around the batteries clean and dry.Water should only be added after fullycharging the golf cart batteryPrior to charging, there should be enough water to cover the plates. If the battery has been discharged (partially or fully), the water level should be above the plates. Some important things to remember are: Do not allow plates to be exposed to air and do not fill the water all the way up to the cap. Do not use water with a high mineral content. You should use only distilled or deionised water. Check water levels in each cell of each battery weekly to ensure that the leaded plates in the battery are submerged in liquid. Don't fill the cell all the way up -- add just enough water to cover the plates. Lastly, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintaining your golf cart's batteries

By Ken MacKenzie [ 26/04/2007 ][ viewed 53 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf in San Diego

2008-01-22T23:09:00.000+07:00

If you live in a cold climate and crave the sun, you might decide to head out to sunny San Diego for your next vacation. You can enjoy the many beaches and luxuriate in the climate, which is similar to what you would find in the Mediterranean. Best of all, if you are a golf lover, you can combine your vacation with your golfing passion and turn your time off into a golfing vacation in San Diego. There are many San Diego tee times available to you now.When vacationing in San Diego, you might enjoy knowing a bit about the history of this delightful city. The area was originally inhabited by the Native American people called the Kumeyaay, but the Spanish came and claimed the waterfront for Spain. A Spanish captain was assigned to map the area, and the ship in which he traveled from Spain to the New World was named the San Diego. He in turn called the area San Diego in honor of the Spanish Catholic saint St. Didacus, from whom the name San Diego derives.San Diego offers vacationers several fun options for your stay. The beaches of San Diego are world famous. For example, Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla is a great beach that is often frequented by surfing enthusiasts. You also will not want to miss the beautiful parks that are located in San Diego. Balboa Park includes not only beautiful gardens, but also museums, theatres, and the San Diego Zoo, all of which have gone into making this park a National Historic landmark.Naturally, you will be primed to enjoy the superior golf courses that are available in San Diego, and you can make golf reservations in San Diego easily online from anywhere in the world. Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course, located in beautiful Bonita, offers a challenging eighteen holes of golf, with water featured on fifteen of them. The Oceanside Golf Course is one that is relatively flat, so it is easy to walk. The San Luis Rey Valley offers a breathtaking vista on this great golf course, as well as the glory of the Pacific Ocean that you will witness on the twelfth hole. Nearby Escondido, California is home to The Vineyard at Escondido. If you are visiting California, this course is not to be missed because you will get to experience a wide panorama of plants and topography that is native to the area, and gain a greater understanding of California native habitats. This versatile course offers wetlands and wildlife preserves, mountain and lake views, and the beauty of the vineyards that all combine to make a day of golf at The Vineyard one you will remember for a long time.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 27/04/2007 ][ viewed 78 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

History of Golf

2008-01-22T23:08:00.000+07:00

There are many types of enjoyable exercise, but one that comes to the top of the list is the game of golf. There are golf courses in nearly every community in the United States and beyond, and all offer tee times that are available when you make golf course reservations. How golf got its start is a fascinating topic that all golfers want to know more about, and the game has a history rich in culture and lore.There is much lively discussion over the origins of the game of golf. Many different cultures have laid claims to being the first one to have invented the game. For instance, an eleventh century Chinese book talks about a game that sounds like golf. In the Netherlands' city of Loenen aan de Vecht the game was said to be mentioned as having been played in 1297. Some scholars believe that the Vikings invented the game of golf in the middle of the thirteenth century. Scotland has long been believed to be the location where golfing was invented as well. Golf was played at the famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, and this led to a law being put in place by King James the Second in 1457. The king's soldiers were spending too much time playing the game and not practicing their archery, so he outlawed the game at St. Andrews. Early accounts of the game are also seen in depictions inside England's Gloucester Cathedral dating back to 1340.The word "golf" is based on the Dutch word "kolf," which refers to a "bat, club or stick," and thus may lend credence to the idea that golf began in the Netherlands. Apparently there was a game where you place an object in a hole in the ice, and this was called "ice kolf," which might be seen as how the land-based form of the game started. More recently, a German scholar has found early depictions of the game of "Kolven," which was a game about putting a ball into a hole, and this supposedly helps to set the sport's origins in the Netherlands. A couple of the oldest golf courses are St. Andrews and the Old Links at Musselburgh, both in Scotland. It is believed that Mary, Queen of Scots, played golf at Musselburgh in 1567. The Old Links had only seven holes originally, but eventually it grew to nine. St. Andrews started out with eleven holes that were played twice, for a total of twenty-two. In time, some of the links were shortened and combined, so that it played out at eighteen holes. This ancient game can still be enjoyed worldwide today, and its history simply adds to its popularity.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 27/04/2007 ][ viewed 85 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How to maintain your golf cart's batteries

2008-01-22T23:05:00.000+07:00

Serious, even dangerous threats can eventuate by improperly maintaining your golf cart’s batteries.A lack of knowledge about basic golf cart battery maintenance can lead to all kinds of problems. Some users assume that the batteries that operate their golf carts are maintenance-free. However, the key to achieving optimum performance and long life is a solid golf cart battery maintenance program.It is recommended that you obtain the following equipment for use in a Golf Cart Battery Maintenance ProgramA wrench; distilled water; a voltmeter (an instrument used for measuring the voltage between two points in an electric circuit); a hydrometer (a tool used to measure the specific gravity of the electrolyte solution); a post cleaner; some baking soda; petroleum jelly and possibly the most of all – goggles and gloves.Always wear protective clothing, acid proof gloves and goggles when handling lead acid batteries and remove all jewellery. It’s important to have lots of water and baking soda nearby as this will neutralise any acid spills from battery refilling and prevent further corrosive damage. Remember, the electrolyte is a solution of acid and water, so skin contact should be avoided and, do not smoke near batteries and never add acid to a battery. Golf carts are typically powered by six lead-acid batteries mounted beneath the front seat.First of all, examine the outside appearance of the batteries. You should look for cracks in the container and the top of the battery. Posts and connections should be free of dirt, fluids and corrosion. You should replace any damaged batteries. Check that all vent caps are tight. Then clean the battery top with a cloth or brush and a solution of baking soda and water ensuring that any cleaning solution or any other foreign matter does not get inside the battery. Then rinse with clean water and dry with a clean cloth. Solvents or spray cleaners should not be used. Then clean the battery terminals and the inside of the cable clamps with a post and clamp cleaner. Reconnect the clamps to the terminals and thinly coat them with petroleum jelly. Always keep the area around the batteries clean and dry.Water should only be added after fullycharging the golf cart batteryPrior to charging, there should be enough water to cover the plates. If the battery has been discharged (partially or fully), the water level should be above the plates. Some important things to remember are: Do not allow plates to be exposed to air and do not fill the water all the way up to the cap. Do not use water with a high mineral content. You should use only distilled or deionised water. Check water levels in each cell of each battery weekly to ensure that the leaded plates in the battery are submerged in liquid. Don't fill the cell all the way up -- add just enough water to cover the plates. Lastly, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintaining your golf cart’s batteries

By Ken MacKenzie [ 27/04/2007 ][ viewed 43 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How is Your Golf Game Course Management?

2008-01-22T23:02:00.000+07:00

Golf course management for your golf game? What the heck is that, you are asking? Well, it could be the difference between cutting strokes off your golf round or continuing to shoot the score you always shoot. It could be the difference between consistency and playing army golf - left, right, left, right.Golf course management is playing a golf course and managing that play so that you have the best opportunity to score well. Golf course management provides a consistent way to attack a golf course given your golf playing strengths and weaknesses. Most amateur golfers want to pull out the driver on every hole and hit it as hard as they can. This might be impressive and showy, but probably gets them into more trouble than anything. Following a different style will help keep them out of trouble and lower their golf scores on the very first round.Before you can utilize golf course management to your best advantage, there has to be some truthful self-assessment of your golf game. This truthful self-assessment can be from your history on the golf course or taken from shots on the driving range. You will need to know how far you can hit each of your clubs. You will also need to know which shot is your "money" shot. This shot determines how far out you are most comfortable hitting into the green with the most confidence. For most amateurs, this is around 100 yards out and a short iron.This also requires that you do a little home work on the golf course that you will be playing. Some questions you will need to be able to answer for each hole are:- How far to trouble on each hole. Trouble may be a bunker, deep rough, dog leg right or left, trees, etc.- What the yardage markers are and where they are located on each hole. Some courses use markers on sprinkler heads, others use markers on the cart path, and others use bushes or trees at strategic locations. This is sometimes noted on the score card for the golf course.- Hole locations on the green and how they are designated. Some courses use different colors to indicate the general location of the pin and hole. For instance, red is the front area of the green, yellow is the middle area of the green, and blue is the back area of the green.- Wind direction and velocity.- Any other factors on the golf course that will have an effect on your swing or golf ball flight.As you can see, this will require more than a little work on your part and you will also need to keep your focus during your golf round. It would be best to have a little notebook that will fit in your back pocket to keep notes about your golf game.You have warmed up on the practice range and putting green. You have assessed the conditions for the day and the golf course. You are finally ready to attack the golf course with your new found course management style.At the tee box on any hole, you will need to assess the yardage to trouble. To manage that trouble, the best thing to do is take a golf club that will avoid the trouble. This can be done in many ways. Some are to drive short of the trouble or past the trouble. Remember that a golf driver will slice easier than any other golf club. If there is trouble on your slice side, take a different club to take that trouble out of play.If it is a dog leg left, and the dog leg corner is 180 to 200 yards out, there is no need to take a driver and try to land it in a small area. It would be better course management to take a shorter wood or an iron that you know will go 180 to 200 yards and aim for the corner.On long holes where you have a choice of taking a risk of hitting a long iron, fairway wood, or some hybrid club to maybe reach the green, why not lay up to a manageable distance. That distance should allow you to use a golf club that you have very high confidence you can get the golf ball very close to the pin. This may be a pitching wedge from 100 yards or an 8 iron from 150 yards. You should know this from your practicing and experience from previous rounds and on the range.If you try to take a risky shot that will probably miss the green and put you in trouble, you risk taking a bogey or worse on the hole. If you manage the hole, your worst score should be a bogey and the best is par or better!If you have watched Tiger Woods in recent tournaments, you will have noticed that this is how he manages his golf game. If it is good enough for the best golf player in the world, don't you think it should be good enough for you?

By Kevin Fairbanks [ 30/04/2007 ][ viewed 52 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

The Golfing Experience in San Diego

2008-01-22T23:00:00.000+07:00

Golfing in San Diego is great fun. The weather is warm and mild for much of the year, so golfing can make a fantastic year-round sport here. When you make golf reservations in San Diego, not only will you enjoy the delightful scenery that all of the great golf courses offer, but you will also benefit from the healthy exercise you will get while golfing on these beautiful courses.One of the great aspects of golfing is that it is a sport that can be enjoyed in the later years of life as well as in earlier ones. All athletes, regardless of their age, can benefit from the great strides that science has taken in the areas of sports nutrition and injury treatment. Due to this, golf enthusiasts profit from being able to recover from injuries more quickly than was possible in the past due to advances in sports medicine. In addition, older golfing athletes can enjoy the sport for a longer period of time if they train effectively by using golf conditioning, which was popularized by the legendary Tiger Woods. These include exercises focusing on the body parts that must endure the most stress during a game of golf. These exercises will help not only improve your balance, coordination and flexibility, but they will also increase the muscular strength of your core, or center of the body, as well as the arms and legs, which are strenuously used in the sport. It makes sense to start conditioning a couple of months before you want to play, so that your body will have time to adjust and improve from the exercises.Walking is a great cardiovascular activity that is easy to do, and the time will fly by as you exercise when you are walking on the fantastic golf courses of San Diego. Book your San Diego discount tee times soon, and put the fun back into your exercise routine. There are so many lovely golf courses in San Diego that you owe it to yourself to visit. One is the Oceanside Golf Course. This course is fairly flat, so it makes for an easy walk. No matter if you are a beginner or an expert, Oceanside will offer you a great game of golf. You can get your fill of water features here, with a dozen offering aquatic excitement, as well as a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean on the twelfth hole. If you enjoy variety in your walking routine, try the Mission Trails Golf Course. You will wander through a beautiful valley for the first half of this eighteen-hole course, and then you will get to traverse the Lake Murray shoreline for the second half of your fun exercise experience.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 30/04/2007 ][ viewed 76 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golf is a Healthy Activity for the Whole Family

2008-01-22T22:57:00.000+07:00

Everyone knows that exercise is an important component of a plan for overall health. Usually, the more exercise you can fit into your day, the greater chance you will have to keep your weight at a healthy level and the more likely will you be to strengthen and train your heart and lungs to improve their function. Golf is a great sport that can be played over one's entire lifespan, from child to adult, and it can be used, along with a proper diet and regular doctor visits, as a part of a healthy and active lifestyle.As any athlete can tell you, if you go out and play a hard game of anything without proper training beforehand, you are much more likely to get hurt. Smart golfers often start training before their golf season begins. They use a series of golf conditioning exercises that focuses on strengthening the muscles used in the pursuit of playing golf: the center or core of the body, arms, shoulders and legs. They also perform exercises that are used to improve the player's coordination, balance and flexibility, all of which are crucial components for any golf player's game.It is important to remember that for golf conditioning to be most useful, you should start the exercise routine a month or two before you plan to start your golf season. Many people find that they are stronger on one side of their body, and a bit weaker on the other. These imbalances can affect your game, but they also can be corrected with proper golf conditioning exercises. Stretches are also included to help improve your range of motion. Think about the contortions your body goes through when you reach all the way down to place a ball on a tee, or even more, when your perform a swing. A body that is not in good condition is more likely to sustain injury, which means that you will be on the sidelines resting rather than enjoying your sport, so a little pre-season conditioning is a great way to prevent that.Golf can help improve your cardiovascular system if you walk between holes rather than take a golf cart. Even a fairly slow walk sustained for thirty minutes can burn approximately 130 calories, so even little bits of walking in between holes can really add up. Walking on a regular basis can help you lose a little weight or assist you in maintaining your current weight, it can strengthen your cardiovascular system when you walk at faster speeds, and walking can even help relieve the stresses that we carry with us throughout the day. Simply head out to your favorite golf courses and improve your health by playing golf today.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 30/04/2007 ][ viewed 90 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

In Golf, It' Now Hip to be Square

2008-01-22T22:54:00.000+07:00

The new rage for 2007 is square headed drivers. Every manufacturer is scrambling to release their version of the square head. But is it really "hip to be square"? or is this just another marketing gimmick promising everyone straighter drives on the golf course.To really know, you need to understand moment of inertia or MOI as the golf industry calls it. MOI is a property of physics that indicates the relative difference in how easy or difficult it will be to set any object in motion about a defined axis of rotation. That was for all you physics majors. Now for the rest of us golfers, MOI is the term applied to a clubhead's resistance to twisting when the ball is struck. For example, your swing is a little off and you hit the ball on the toe of the clubhead. A clubhead with a higher MOI will twist less as a result of the mis-hit, creating a better chance that the ball will still go where you intended and with less loss of distance. So how to the manufacturers increase MOI? The simple answers is perimeter weighting. The key to increasing MOI is relocating as much weight as possible as far away from the clubhead's center of gravity. The new square shape has allowed manufacturers to create extreme weighting in the corners of the clubhead, outside the weighting zone of a traditional driver. This has increased the MOI, thus creating a driver more forgiving and overall provides for longer straighter drives.As most manufacturers are launching these new club head with price tags of over $400, TourGolfClubs has introduced a line of square head golf clubs that rival the top name brands in features and performance but at a quarter of the price. TourGolfClubs golf equipments is made with similar materials and technology as the comparable name brand. Brands like Callaway, Nike, Titleist, and Ping. We provide you the performance of the name brand golf clubs, but offer you a better value.For more information go to:

By David Laible [ 04/05/2007 ][ viewed 46 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golfing in Los Angeles

2008-01-22T22:49:00.000+07:00

The city of Los Angeles is rich with cultural history. Because of its sunny climate, sports enthusiasts also flock to the area to enjoy the outdoors. Golfers are no exception. Los Angeles tee times are available on several excellent courses, and if you happen to have friends or family visiting, a day of golfing using discount tee times in CA can make it affordable for the whole family to join in the fun.The year 1542 brought the first European explorers to the area, which was long the home for the Tongva, Chumash and other Native American people groups. What we today think of as Los Angeles began life as a pueblo, which existed as a small ranch town in what was then a part of Mexico. In 1848 Mexico gave over control of the area to the North Americans after the Mexican-American War, and the Gold Rush brought many settlers to the area. California eventually became a state in 1850.Los Angeles is famous for not only being home to the motion picture industry, but also for its spectacular golf courses. If you want a glorious view of the ocean when you are out golfing in Los Angeles, you will not want to miss a day of golf at Los Verdes Golf Course located in Palos Verdes. This course is famous for its ocean views, reputed to be the best in the whole state of California. You will have a great time honing your putting skills at this beautiful course.Glendale offers the Scholl Canyon Golf Course with Los Angeles golf tee times available. If you want stunning views of the city of Los Angeles to enjoy as you play the bent-grass greens, then you will want to visit Scholl Canyon. Stopping by after work in order to practice in the cool of the evening is also a great idea, because Scholl Canyon also offers a lighted driving range for you to do just that.Long Beach is home to the enjoyable Skylinks Golf Course. Offering eighteen holes filled with water hazards, bunkers, fairways and greens, Skylinks will give you much variety as you play your way around this excellent course.If you would like to hone your skills the next time you are out playing, why not consider golfing at the Valencia Country Club, which offers the Nike Golf Learning Center for your education in the sport. Featuring beautiful lakes and even an island green within a verdant park setting, these natural features are what makes Valencia Country Club a great destination for golfers.No matter your skill level or experience, there are several outstanding golf courses in Los Angeles where you can enjoy a great game of golf.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 05/05/2007 ][ viewed 86 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golfing isn’t just for Guys

2008-01-22T22:47:00.000+07:00

If you love golf, you enjoy the sport because of the skill it requires. You also love it because it gets you out onto great golf courses to get some fresh air and exercise. But it is also a wonderful sport because women have distinguished themselves in the game. It's a fact--golf is not just for the guys. Famous women golfers play in the LPGA Tour every year in the United States. The Ladies Professional Golf Association offers tournaments for the top women in the sport. It got its start in 1950, with Babe Didrikson Zaharias, famous for her talent in the areas of golf, basketball, and track and field, leading the charge, and it is the oldest professional women's sport organization in the United States.There are four major championships in the LPGA Tour. They include the Kraft Nabisco Championship, the McDonald's U.S. LPGA Championship Presented by Coca-Cola, the U.S. Women's Open, and the Weetabix Women's British Open. Women players from all over the world flock to these championships to test their skills.The Kraft Nabisco Championship was started by singer Dinah Shore in 1972, and was added to the major championships in 1983. Morgan Pressel of the United States won this great championship this year.The McDonald's LPGA Championship Presented by Coca-Cola is held on different courses from year to year. Last year it was played at the Bulle Rock Golf Course, located in Havre de Grace, Maryland. The winner was South Korea's Se Ri Pak, a professional golfer who has had twenty-nine professional wins over the course of her long career.The U.S. Women's Open is the oldest major championship of the four games. This year the championship will be played in Southern Pines, North Carolina at the Pine Needles Lodge and Country Club. Last year's winner was Annika Sorenstam from Sweden, a hugely successful golfer who has won ten majors.The Weetabix Women's British Open is unique in that it is the only major tournament that is found in the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour. Last year's winner was Sherri Steinhauer of Madison, Wisconsin. This year's game will be held at the famous St. Andrews course in Scotland. It's easy to see that many talented women have taken the lead in women's professional golf, and they come from all over the world and from all walks of life. Golf is the unifying force that brings them all together, and so too can you enjoy a game of golf with your girlfriends. You can find lovely golf courses where you can hone your skills so that perhaps one day you will join the golfing greats at one of the majors on the LPGA Tour.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 05/05/2007 ][ viewed 76 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Learn to Play Golf

2008-01-21T22:54:00.000+07:00

Golf is a celebrated game among the elite. Golf can be a very gratifying game but sometimes it can prove frustrating too. So unless a person has love or passion for the game of golf it is not easy to learn to play golf. People who want to learn to play golf are offered a cafeteria of choices to train themselves. But real practice sessions are a must while learning to play golf. The other options for learning to play golf include golf videos, golf books, interactive videos, golf articles in magazines and direct learning program for golf. Some of the important thumb rules that are kept in mind when learning to play golf are
Learn to play golf gripping the club in the correct way
Learn to align the club face properly
Learn to have the correct swing and the art of back swing
Learn to have a controlled swing
Learn to master the move of one-piece takeaway
Learn to enhance of straight ball flight,
LearnÂ to have a perfect impact
Learn to boost consistency
Learn to have increased distance
Learn to have the right hand actionThese key areas of the game have to be concentrated upon so that the efforts put forth in learning to play golf bears fruits. Though a professional golf trainer is important to a great extent to learn to play golf, a lot more lies on the shoulders of the person who learns to play golf. Consistent and regular practice is a must to learn to play golf efficiently and effectively. Repetition of a skill while learning to play golf is a must to bring in self-confidence and victory. Allowing criticism also helps because a check comes for a fault from an outsider which a person learning to play golf will not be able to see for himself. Learning to play golf might be a group activity with groups ranging from two to a maximum of eight. Persons learning to play golf can undergo these training sessions at any time of the year for it is available all through the year. Improvement is facilitated by allowing the persons learning to play golf to join in groups based on their levels namely- beginners, intermediate and advanced.Getting the right equipments to learn to play golf is important. But investing on expensive equipments at the earlier stages of learning golf can be a waste.Â It is imperative to learn the rules and etiquette of the golf game while learning to play it. A basic level of competency in golf is a must when you play in a golf course. This can lift up your confidence levels which are also very essential while learning to play golf. The three major problems that arise for golfers when learning to play golf are inconsistency, slice and distance. Even though readymade solutions are available on golf books and videos and no matter how much a person reads or discusses on golf, learning to play golf needs the person going to the range and doing it practically; for practice makes a skill perfect.

By Steve Katz [ 12/05/2007 ][ viewed 49 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How to Have a Good Day Golfing

2008-01-21T22:50:00.000+07:00

Golf is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Available year round and round the world, it is easy to have a good day golfing.The first step is to find nearby golf courses that offer all of the features that you appreciate. Online booking of golf course reservations makes getting the tee times you wish very easy any time of the day or night at your convenience. Courses offer many great tee times so you can choose your favorites. If you are a morning person, then early morning tee times are available so that you can maximize your play time. If you work, twilight tee times on night-lit courses offer you playing options that work well with your schedule. You will also want to see if a locker room is available, especially if you are playing before or after work and need to change clothes. Other amenities that will help make sure you have a great day of golf include an excellent restaurant where you can have a meal after your game, as well as a fully stocked pro shop.Another way to have a great day of golfing is by saving money every time you play. Many golf courses offer discount tee times, so by using these you can afford to play your favorite sport often. Make sure when you sign up for tee times online that you are not being changed extra fees for doing so. Many outstanding golf courses offer booking services that do not assess any fees to provide this handy service, so it pays to shop around and see if this is included. Some golf courses also offer a golfer's club for additional savings on such things as greens fees, merchandise, discounted guest passes and early twilight access on the course. Some courses also offer complimentary cart usage, so ask about this when you make a reservation.An additional means to ensure that you have an excellent day golfing is to take lessons to improve your game. Most golf courses offer instruction for players at all levels, from beginner to expert. If you have children, this is a great way to help the younger members of your family develop a love of the game. When you take lessons, you will learn about safety, grip, stance, posture, swing techniques, putting, chipping, and more.Finally, to make sure that you are comfortable while you play golf, apply sunscreen to all exposed body parts before you leave home. Also bring a bottle of water, and wear comfortable golf shoes. All of these tips will help you fully enjoy the experience of a great day of golfing at your favorite courses.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 13/05/2007 ][ viewed 94 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Golfers in Los Angeles

2008-01-21T22:47:00.000+07:00

Golfers in Los Angeles know how lucky they are to live in an area with a warm Mediterranean climate, so that they can enjoy their favorite sport year round. Making reservations at your favorite golf course is easy: simply book your Los Angeles golf tee times at your convenience online, and it's all done as effortlessly as that. LA tee times are available during the day, starting in early morning so you can get an early game in, and ranging into the evening hours, when you can request discount tee times in CA for a treat after you are done with work. No matter where you play golf in Los Angeles, you will find some similarities as to all of the different parts that make up a golf course.A golf course is made up of a series of holes, which includes not only the cup where the ball is headed, but also the length from the tee to the green. The green is comprised of short grass that surrounds the cup. Most golf courses come equipped with eighteen holes, although there are shorter executive courses available.The tee is also called the teeing ground. This is the place from which the beginning stroke on each hole is hit. The teeing ground is also the place where a player may use a golf tee to help make the shot easier. There are different distances on tees based on the classification of the game, whether it is for men or women, or professional or amateur competition. After the first stroke, the golfer goes to where the ball landed, and continues to hit the ball toward the green. The ball might have landed on the fairway or the rough. The fairway has short grass and the rough has long grass, and so it is easier to hit and control the ball from the fairway than from the rough.Golf courses also include hazards. They can be made up of water; bunkers, also known as sand traps; or vegetation. If the golf ball ends up in a hazard, there are special rules that must be adhered to in order to get the ball back into play. You can play the ball where it rests in the hazard without any penalties, but if you cannot play it from there, you are allowed to move it to another location, but you get a penalty for doing that. Eventually you make it to the putting green. This is where you putt the ball towards the cup so that it comes to rest inside the cup. Fabulous golf courses, including Skylinks, Simi Hills, Westchester, Los Verdes, La Mirada, El Dorado, and Heartwell, await you in Los Angeles, so make your reservations today.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 13/05/2007 ][ viewed 104 times ]

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Disposing of old Golf Cart Batteries

2008-01-21T22:44:00.000+07:00

Lead acid batteries have been determined to be unsuitable for disposal as municipal solid waste because they contain toxic heavy metals and have corrosive properties. Golf cart batteries are not to be placed in waste baskets or dumpsters where they will end up as municipal trash.So, what can you do? For starters, don't toss your golf cart's old battery into a bin with your household recyclables and leave it on the curb. The battery, also referred to as a lead-acid battery, contains about 21 pounds of lead, three pounds of plastic and one gallon of sulfuric acid. These items can be toxic if handled improperly. If you are the do-it-yourself type, take your spent battery to a quality auto parts retailer that is committed to battery recycling.Nearly 90 percent of all lead-acid batteries are recycled. Almost any retailer that sells lead-acid batteries collects used batteries for recycling, as required by most state laws. Reclaimers crush batteries into nickel-sized pieces and separate the plastic components. They send the plastic to a reprocessor for manufacture into new plastic products and deliver purified lead to battery manufacturers and other industries.Many states have regulations in place requiring battery recycling. (Thirty-seven states in the U.S. require lead-acid battery recycling; making retailers collect used lead-acid batteries from customers who buy new batteries.)As neither sulphuric acid nor lead are exactly good for the environment you have to be careful when you dispose of old lead-acid batteries. Leave it for recycling. You can also leave your old battery where you buy your new one. If that should not be the case, contact your local municipality to check where you can safely dispose of old batteries. In the old days, when we changed a battery, we threw out the old one and never gave it a second thought. Today, we know better. We know that: · Individuals who become poisoned by lead can experience symptoms including irritability, stomach aches, poor appetite, diarrhea, colic, distractibility, and lethargy; · Lead acid typically consists of 40% sulfuric acid, a corrosive that can burn skin; and · The improper disposal of lead-acid batteries can contaminate soil and water. The toxic metal is not able to dissolve in water or biodegrade, dissipate, decay, or burn, making it an extremely harmful hazard.

By Ken MacKenzie [ 14/05/2007 ][ viewed 42 times ]

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Golfing in Orange County

2008-01-21T22:40:00.000+07:00

If you love golf, then you know that Southern California offers some of the best golfing in the country. Orange County, in Southern California, has many beautiful golf courses that offer discount tee times in CA. If you are planning a vacation that will include some golfing, OC tee times are waiting for you. The courses here are so wonderful that it pays to know that when you are looking into Orange County tee times, golf courses in the area are standing by to take your reservations and help ensure that you have a great day of golfing.This beautiful county was formed in 1889, but it has a rich history spanning from long before this year. Native tribes, including the nations of Tongva, which means "people of the earth," as well as the Juaneno, who were named after Mission San Juan Capistrano by the priests there, and the Luiseno, who were given this name by the priests because of their location near the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, lived here long before European settlers arrived. After Spain claimed the land and built a series of missions in the area, in 1887 settlers discovered that the Santa Ana mountains held silver, which led to many more settlers traveling out to the area on the railroads to seek their fortunes. Because of the great number of people coming to the region, the California government decided to create Orange County as separate from Los Angeles County, and the county was named for the citrus crop that grows so well there.Orange County makes a great vacation destination because it is home to both Disneyland, which opened in 1955, and Knott's Berry Farm, which officially opened as an amusement park in 1968. Visitors and residents alike come here for the gorgeous Mediterranean-like climate, as well as forty-two miles of glorious beaches that are accessible year-round. Surfers love the sandy beaches, and all manner of boats are a wonderful feature of the Orange County waterfront. Because of the area's agrarian roots, there is much beautiful park land that has been set aside for the enjoyment of all, and you will find many beautiful golf courses in Orange County that take advantage of all of the scenic beauty there. One golf course you will not want to miss is located in Orange County in the town of Mission Viejo, and that is the Casta Del Sol Golf Course. It offers a challenging day of golf, but even beginning golfers can enjoy this newly renovated course.Another elegant golfing opportunity awaits you at the Coyote Hills Country Club. Enjoy the streams with cobblestone bridges, waterfalls, and glorious views as you golf this stimulating course in Orange County.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 14/05/2007 ][ viewed 71 times ]

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Reasons Why Golfing is so Popular

2008-01-21T22:35:00.000+07:00

Like so many other enthusiasts, golf is your game of choice. You play as often as possible, because it fills so many roles in your life. Golfing is a popular pastime for several reasons.One explanation for golf's popularity is that it is available nearly everywhere in the United States. Most cities and towns offer a golf course for your enjoyment. It also makes for a wonderful vacation to travel to a foreign country to play golf there. Locations such as Scotland feature centuries-old courses, and you can get a sense of history playing on these ancient grounds.Another reason why golf is popular is that it's a great source of exercise. Golfers spend a lot of time walking courses, and all of that walking adds up to great cardiovascular exercise that will benefit your heart and lungs. Many golfers choose to do some golf conditioning before they start their regular season of play. Conditioning includes exercises for the major muscle groups that you will use when you play golf, plus additional exercises for flexibility and balance. These great ideas can help improve your game, prevent injuries during the season from strained muscles, and is another explanation for golf's popularity.Many people enjoy golf because it is an inclusive sport. Men, women, and children can all enjoy a game of golf. This makes golfing a great activity for the whole family to relish. A day out on the golf course gives everyone some exercise, gets everyone outside to breathe some fresh air, and gives an opportunity for some fun competition. Players from beginner to advanced can all find something to enjoy on a golf course when they are out playing. Anyone can take golf lessons to improve their game. Golf courses often offer lessons, and in this way you can learn more about the game and increase your skills. All of this will only go to help you enjoy your favorite sport even more.Golf is also popular because the game can be played day or evening. Many courses offer lighted play areas, and you can book tee times for twilight play, which is a pleasant time to participate in the cool of the evening if you live in a hot-summer area of the country. If you are a morning person and feel more focused in the early hours, you can make golf course reservations for then, and fully relish your time spent out on the course. The flexibility with which you can schedule tee times also allows you to get a game in before or after work or school. Whether you play for the availability, exercise, inclusiveness or timing, golf is a fun game that gains in popularity from year to year.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 14/05/2007 ][ viewed 59 times ]

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The Golf Handicap Formula

2008-01-21T22:29:00.000+07:00

Golf Handicap for a given golf course is the relative ranking of a golf player to a golf newbie that helps in normalized assessment of players and allowing the golf players to compete fairly. This assessment is obviously based on a golf player’s performance in a series of games, the scores in those games and a few other factors that help in normalizing the scores.Calculation of golf handicap for a given golf player for a given set of golf courses involves a lot of factors and many golf aspirants find the golf handicap calculation formula difficult to comprehend at least at the start. A few golf aspirants even question the very concept of golf handicap calculation and the golf handicap calculation formula.Even though there are so many golf handicap calculators available online in a flurry of websites, it is always better to have an idea on how it is being calculated just for the sake of understanding; before going on to use one such golf handicap calculators. However in most practical situation it makes sense to use one of these calculators to save time and improve accuracy in the golf handicap calculation process.Basically the golf handicap calculation formula is a six step procedure with straight forward calculations. However the calculations used start to differ as the calculation inputs vary and that is where the golf handicap calculation formula tends to get complex.The first step is to jot down the scores in the last five 18 holes rounds played by the golf player. The second step is to normalize the scores across the golf courses and this is done by considering the rating and slope of the various golf courses in the scores list. The third step is to find the difference between the points scored in a specific golf course and the rating of that golf course. The fourth step is to multiply the number in step 3 by 113. The fifth step is to calculate the differential for that score that is done by diving the number is step 4 by the slope of the golf course. The product of the lowest of the five differentials with 0.96 gives the golf handicap for that golf player.If there are more than 5 but less than 20 scores to consider, the first five steps remain constant but in the sixth step the average of the (n-5) lowest differentials is calculated and the number is multiplied by 0.96 to arrive at the golf handicap of that golf player. Here n indicates the number of scores taken into consideration. For example if seven scores are considered then 7 - 5 = 2 lowest differentials are picked up and their average is multiplied by 0.96 to arrive at the golf handicap for that player. If there are twenty or more scores, the latest twenty scores are taken and the ten lowest differentials out of these twenty scores are picked up, their average is found and the average is multiplied by 0.96 to arrive at the golf handicap for that golf player. While the golf handicap rating calculated using the above formula is a ballpark estimate, the official United States Golf Association (USGA) golf handicap ratings cannot be given out by everyone and there are authorized clubs that are entitled to provide these golf handicap ratings.

By Steve Katz [ 15/05/2007 ][ viewed 41 times ]

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The Golf Swing Physics

2008-01-20T21:25:00.000+07:00

Swing is a major factor determining a player’s quality in golf. Physics, physics and more physics is what a golf swing is all about. Based on the concept of impact and angular motion from mechanical physics, a golf swing is fully scientific and loaded with concepts from physics. Torque is generated by the twisting swing the golf club. This torque causes rotation by impacting the angular velocity of the golf club. The momentum generated at any point is a product of the mass and the velocity of the moving object and with almost all club heads weighing just about equally, the impact on the long ball and hence the distance traveled by the long ball depends on the velocity of the club head. The speed at which the club head collides on the golf ball is directly proportional to the kinetic energy transferred from the golf club head to the golf ball since kinetic energy is directly proportional to mass of the object (here the golf club head) and the square of its velocity. Expert golf players generally achieve a velocity of 100 miles per during the impact. It is noted that Tiger Woods reaches a velocity of up to 125 miles per hour demonstrating the importance of the swing and applying physics in the swing. Further angular velocity as defined in mechanical physics depends on the angle of the rotating object and it has been found that there is an optimum angle between the club face and the club shaft and that this angle varies depending on the speed of the swing generated by the golf player. In other words a fast paced swing will have a better result in one angle while a slow paced swing will have a better impact in some other. A common mistake done during a swing is the flicking of wrists which although provides an illusion a perfect swing; slows it down a lot as per the rules of mechanical physics. Conserving the kinetic energy and the impact in the swing is the only way to a successful swing and that is how players like Tiger woods achieve very long drives.There are four key elements of a good swing – extending the range of motion, maintaining the speed of the club head, concentrating the force on the impact by synchronized action of hips, wrists and shoulders, ensuring smooth club head rotation that prevents the reduction of impact and momentum on the golf ball.Spoken generally, the golf club head should have a speed of about 100 miles per hour and the ball should leave the tee at about 140 miles per hour with a backspin of fifty to sixty rotations per second. This maximizes the distance of the drive.The physics applied in the swing also depends on where the shot is being played. A swing in a sand trap and a swing in a fairway are far from equivalent. During a chip shot out of a sand trap, the sand behind the golf ball should be hit with the club head. The greater the distance between the club and the ball, the lesser is the distance traveled by the golf ball as the sand in between acts as the impact absorber.Weather also decides the physics adopted for a swing. If 12 degrees in an optimum ‘lie’ angle normally, it may not be constant for a windy situation. If there is headwind, slightly increasing the ‘lie’ angle and lofting the ball is the best way to use the wind to our favor while if it is the other way round, reducing the angle helps accelerating the ball better. Ultimately a golf swing is filled with physics and the greater a golfer uses concepts from physics, the better is the success rate.

By Steve Katz [ 16/05/2007 ][ viewed 44 times ]

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The Basics of Buying Ladies Golf Clubs Part 2

2008-01-20T21:23:00.000+07:00

IronsGolfers with slower swings should take the following into consideration when choosing their irons. First of all, you should probably have a 6 or 7 iron as your longest iron club. Only carry a 5 or even a 6 iron if you can hit it confidently and consistently. Most people with slow swings cannot accomplish this. Higher number fairway woods and hybrids will replace the long irons. Another consideration is a wide sole that is rounded to prevent from digging more into the ground and slowing the club face even more. For the same reason don’t choose a large iron head design. By all means, do use irons with a deep back cavity and perimeter weighting.HybridsYou should use hybrid clubs to replace at least your long irons. The Nancy Lopez ladies golf club line offers sets with hybrids up to the 7 iron in some cases, and even some sets with hybrids completely replacing all the irons except the pitching and sand wedges. Which hybrids you choose will depend on which fairway woods you carry. You will need to determine how far your ball will fly with your highest numbered fairway wood and then choose your lowest numbered hybrid to fly 10-15 yards less than that. The Nancy Lopez site will give you a good idea about what club choices are appropriate for your swing and ability level.WedgesYour pitching wedge (PW) should have at least 4 degrees more loft than your 9 iron. The sand wedge (SW) should have at least 56 degrees of loft or even more. There is probably no need for a gap wedge (GW) unless you have a substantial difference in how far you hit the PW compared to the SW. For people with slower swing seeds, this difference is not normally enough to justify another club. A lob wedge (LW) can also be a good addition to your set. For both the SW and the LW, there is no need for golfers with slower swings to have a large bounce angle, since there will not be enough force in the swing to dig too far into the sand or ground in any case.ConclusionIf you are a serious golfer and can afford it, the best solution for a great set of ladies golf clubs is to find a certified custom fitter and club maker. The standard, off-the-shelf sets of ladies golf clubs sold in most shops will only fit a small percentage of the population. It is essentially a “one size fits all” proposition. Another good alternative is the Nancy Lopez ladies golf club product lines. You should at least look at their web site to see how they approach fitting your clubs and choosing the right ladies golf clubs to put in your bag. Knowing your swing speeds and what the length of your clubs should be is fundamental in this process. Be aware that most people, both men and women, use clubs that are too long, and they do not use enough loft on the driver.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 19/05/2007 ][ viewed 76 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

The Basics of Buying Ladies Golf Clubs Part 1

2008-01-20T21:19:00.000+07:00

Ladies are at a disadvantage when it comes to putting together a set of golf clubs that fits them well and from which they can get the most out of their games. The reason is that there are few choices in normal off-the-shelf ladies golf clubs. With typically less than 10% of sales for a golf club company coming from ladies golf clubs, there are simply few choices in club styles, shaft flex, swing weights, or lofts normally available in most golf shops. An exception to this is the excellent line offered by Nancy Lopez Golf Clubs. That is the subject of another article, but you can easily find their web site with a simple search.In general women have slower swing speeds than men and need shorter clubs and higher loft. There are of course women with better and stronger swings than most men. Lorena Ochoa of the LPGA tour averages about 270 yards on her tee shots. This is astonishing for a woman who weighs about 115 pounds! She is the top rated professional woman player in the world, however, and this article is meant for women with less ability than the top LPGA pros possess.Driver ConsiderationsYou must know your swing speed with at least a driver and preferably with both driver and 5 iron. Women who can swing the driver more than 70 MPH can use titanium faced drivers effectively and take advantage of the spring effect off the face that such a club offers. If your driver swing speed is more like 60 MPH, you would have to find a special titanium face, and these are not readily available. If you are that serious you will probably be having custom ladies golf clubs made by a certified fitter and club maker. So in that case ask your club maker if he or she can offer options. As for club face loft, the slower your swing, the higher the loft is needed. If you can easily get the ball in the air, a loft of 13-14 degrees should work well for your driver. If you have trouble getting the ball in the air, you may need to use a 16 degree 3 wood to get the most out of your swing. Other ways to help get the ball a bit higher in the air are to use an offset hosel or a more flexible shaft.Fairway WoodsFairway woods are critical clubs for women or men with slower golf swings. If your swing speed is in the 60MPH range, you should start your fairway woods with a 5 wood and leave out the 3 wood. Your other woods would then probably need to be a 9 and 13 wood. The reason for skipping an odd numbered wood is because you won’t be hitting the ball that much farther with a 5 wood than you will with a 7 wood, for example. In other words the gap in distance between the two clubs is not enough to justify carrying the other club. Regarding club length, there should be at least a one inch difference for each odd numbered club. That is, the 7 wood should be one inch shorter than the 5 wood, and the 9 wood should be 2 inches shorter than the 5 wood, for example.For women who swing 70 MPH or greater, a 3 wood could be a good choice, but it should have at least a 16 degree loft in order to keep the ball in the air longer. This group of golfers can justify having every other odd number wood in their bags, such as 3, 5, 7 and 9 woods, for example.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 19/05/2007 ][ viewed 55 times ]

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Golfing in Orange County

2008-01-20T21:16:00.000+07:00

By Jonathan Blocker [ 20/05/2007 ][ viewed 86 times ]

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Reasons Why Golfing is so Popular

2008-01-19T22:23:00.000+07:00

By Jonathan Blocker [ 20/05/2007 ][ viewed 81 times ]

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Golf Putting Stats - Do They Really Help You?

2008-01-19T22:11:00.000+07:00

We have all heard that if we want to improve our golf games, we need to be collecting our stats. You know GIR, putting, fairways, etc. I have done it for years and it does show you what area's that you need to be working and concentrating on. Most stats are good information, except one, and that is putting. I will explain why the putting stat does nothing for you, but I am going to tell you how to make a new putting stat that will help you.If you are having 9 GIR, I would think that you should be working on your irons that you are hitting into the greens. If you are hitting 4 fairways, then I would suggest that you start working on your driver some more and get that number up to 11-13 if you can. Using the above information, your putting that day is 25 putts. Can you use this putting information, I will tell you why not in just a minute.So as you can see there is a purpose for collecting your stats. Now I do things a bit different. Not only do I collect the main stats, I also and suggest you do the same is to break them down even more. What do I mean by this? Let me show you.More Than Just The Basic'sIf I am looking for GIR, I also collect if I missed the green short, long, left and right. See how I am getting a lot more information than the basic stat of GIR. Now I can tell where I am missing the green. Pulling the shots, pushing the shots, etc. I also note what club that I hit into the green. I put all of this information into an excel program and then graph it. This is very helpful.The same thing goes for fairways. Did I miss the fairway to the left or to the right. Again I can see what I am doing by pulling or pushing. Here is a big clue. Let's say that I am mainly missing the fairways to the left. Ok, not a big deal, but I look at the GIR and the same thing, missing to the left. I have some great data here. Is there a problem with the swing plane or something simple like alignment. But the data is telling me good information.Drive For Show, Putt For DoughNow there is another stat that people seem to really focus on. What is it? Putts. Now that is a big one, putts. You always hear people talking about their putting. How many putts they had in their round. I had 35 putts. Boy I had a bad putting day today I had 40 putts. Again, this is some good information, but is it... Do you want to improve your putting, keep reading.Putting is one of those stats that can be very misleading. One day you have 26 putts and another day you have 36 putts. Not too much good information there. The information on putting can get very skewed. Why? GIR is the key.So you have that putting day, with 25 putts and you only hit 5 GIR. Sounds to me like you got up and down quite a bit that day. You were chipping the ball close, and making the short putts. Maybe they were even tap in's. So is this putting information of 25 putts any good? Well not really. You had a bad day hitting the greens and your chipping was red hot. Well you don't have to work on your chipping, that's for sure. But you may want to work on your iron play attacking the greens. You have no way to know with this information if you need to improve your putting. I hope you see what I mean here.The Secret to Collecting the Right Putting StatHere is a great putting tip and this is going to let you know if you need some putting instruction. So what putting stat is a good putting stat? Now that is the real question and I have the answer for you. You want to count your putts on the greens that you hit in regulation.What do I mean? Let's use the above example of hitting 5 greens in regulation. Even though the GIR stat stinks and can be improved upon, you can still use it for something.However many GIR you have note how many putts you had on that hole specifically. So for example, 5 GIR and you had 11 putts. This stat is a little worse than average. If you had 9 putts, that would be much better. You had a 1 putt and the rest of the other 4 holes you two putt. Now this is a stat that you can really use and track.In ConclusionNumber of putts on the greens in regulation. This is really going to tell you how good you are putting. And if you are working on your putting, this stat is going to really tell you if you are improving or if you should continue to work hard on your putting. I want to say it again...Number of putts for the greens you hit in regulation. Now this number cannot be skewed. It is straight forward and can be used to evaluate how good your putting really is. So, forget about that overall putting stat. Not any good and can be skewed. Putts/GIR that is the one you want to make sure you are tracking. 10putts/5GIR average, 8putts/5GIR you are definitely getting better.Track this stat, monitor this stat and you are going to really know how good or bad your putting really is. If you would like a copy of the stat sheet that I use, go to my website PuttLightsOut.com and send me an email and I will send it to you, free. You will also find putting tips at the site plus much more. You can then make copies of it and start tracking your stats and watch your game start to improve.For more information on this topic as well as other golf related topics visit:

By Steve Madigan [ 22/05/2007 ][ viewed 59 times ]

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Junior Golf Clubs- What to Do?

2008-01-19T22:07:00.000+07:00

30 years ago there weren’t too many sets of real junior golf clubs to be found, and there weren’t that many people buying components and making their own clubs either. I found a person who did make clubs and had some old ones cut down for my two kids. My son must have been barely 3 years old, and his 9 iron didn’t show much of the metal shaft: it was all grip! The head was extremely heavy, and he couldn’t really swing the club, he sort of picked it up and hacked down at the ball like the club was an axe! The kids both had fun, however, and they always lit up when I suggested going to the driving range to hit balls. These days parents have many more options, and they can find decent junior golf clubs at surprisingly reasonable prices. Doing it RightEarl Woods always made sure that Tiger had clubs that fit him when he was growing up. With clubs that are too long or too heavy and with grips too large, the junior golfer is going to have to make swing adjustments that will probably cause bad habits which will be difficult to correct later onClub LengthThis is the major consideration, and suffice it to say that your junior golfer should not be playing with clubs that are too long. Sure, you want your kids to “grow into them”, but if they have to choke up more than 2 inches they will have to modify their swings. Your kids will probably only get 2 to 3 years maximum out of a set of junior golf clubs, so you should set that expectation if you want your kids to play and enjoy golf. Unless you purchase a Calloway junior set or a set from another major brand, new clubs can be acquired at very reasonable prices. More on that shortly.Club and Club Head WeightDon’t do to your junior golfer what I did to my son. Get him or her clubs that are the correct weight. Junior sets normally have light and flexible graphite shafts and proper club head size and weight. GripsYoungsters need grips on their junior golf cubs that fit their hands. Fortunately thin grips for kids are readily available these days, and most decent junior sets use those.Prices- New ClubsA quick internet search showed an number of interesting options. AMF had a set of junior golf clubs for ages 3-5 for about $80. The set had a wood, a hybrid club, an iron, and a putter. The clubs had light weight flexible graphite shafts, and the golf bag and a few other accessories were included. They also had sets aimed at 5-8 year olds and 9-12 years of age for a bit more money. In contrast, I saw a junior Calloway set for 9-13 year olds selling for $240.Why Not Ebay?A quick search on Ebay for “junior golf clubs” resulted in seeing several hundred auctions, most of those for brand new clubs. If you find a reliable seller you can get some excellent deals. I saw a brand new set for the 5-9 age group that had a top bid of only $15, and there were only 15 minutes left in the auction! So to get that very first set to determine if the child will be interested in playing golf, Ebay might be a great solution.ConclusionMy grandson is 1½ years of age right now, and I’m already thinking about taking him to the driving range in about a year. He’ll be luckier than his uncle (my son) was at his age, and he’ll have junior golf clubs that fit him reasonably well and which he can actually swing. I can’t wait to see him hit a few shots that get up into the air a bit for the first time. The sooner he can accomplish that and experience some success, the more he’ll enjoy playing golf not just as a youngster but throughout his life.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 23/05/2007 ][ viewed 98 times ]

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Golf Insurance

2008-01-19T22:00:00.000+07:00

Golf insurance is one of the uniquely important factors in the game of golf. Even though it appears naive, golf insurance does play a vital role in the safety of the golfers and their golf equipments in any golf course. But how could a silent and an irrefutably soft game like golf demand insurance? A golfer who paid hundreds to thousands of dollars to compensate for the accidental damage he caused or a golfer who had to get a new golf kit for himself since he lost his own could explain the major role golf insurance plays in the security and welfare of a golfer.Accidents happen in any game and in fact it could be worse in golf given the varieties of equipments being used in golf. A simple example could be the case where a golfer’s retina was permanently damaged due to the accidental slip of the golf club from a co-player’s hand. The injured golfer promptly sued the other, the plea was legally accepted and due to the unforeseen accident, the golfer who did the mistake had to pay a heavy penalty for it. Accidents of this sort are most likely to occur with frequent golfers who play golf for the fun, get frequent players points and frequent golf courses since the probability of meeting with an accident gets higher and higher as the frequency of play increases.Another common situation that would prove the importance of golf insurance is the loss of golf equipments specifically golf clubs. Golf is indeed a costly game and it is not feasible to get a new golf kit over and over again. Even though this appears a pretty rare situation, reality is actually terrifying. Reports say that golf clubs worth millions of dollars are being stolen every year and in US alone over 10, 000 golf clubs are stolen every year.Now that we had seen the importance of golf insurance, let us take a look at the tips and tricks of Golf insurance. As with any other insurance, golf insurance can be as tweaked as possible. Unless the golf insurance completely covers you including the various possible locations of the accident/theft, the possible types of accidents the insurance covers you from and also depending on the insurance coverage amount, insurance companies might easily get you trapped. It is very important to make sure that the golf insurance taken up covers the complete damage amount, all possible accident locations including the car parking area where the golf equipments could be easily stolen and that there are no asterisks around the coverage scope. In short it is necessary to ensure a complete golf insurance coverage in all locations and in all possible accident zones.In short, in a game like golf that could be costly both in terms of the equipments and the damages incurred and it is highly essential to ensure that there is a proper insurance cover so that the vacation that started off with a wonderful golf tour doesn’t end up in financial loss and mental stress.

By Steve Katz [ 25/05/2007 ][ viewed 40 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Phoenix Golf Courses Part 2

2008-01-19T21:56:00.000+07:00

Phoenix makes a great destination for your next vacation, especially if you enjoy the sport of golf. You can find discount Phoenix golf available online, making it much more affordable to play your favorite game often. Book your Phoenix city golf tee times online, and you will have the opportunity to select from early morning to twilight times, so that you can play whenever you want at your convenience. If you are a visitor to Phoenix, the city has a long history that starts back in as early as 700 A.D. A Native American group called the Hohokam lived in the area and created irrigation canals, which made the land suitable for agriculture and livestock. Later European inhabitants would build upon the canal system implemented by the Hohokam, and bring even more water to the area, which aided in the cotton and citrus farming that was popular at the time. The city of Phoenix was incorporated in 1881, and became the state capital of Arizona in 1912.Because it is located on the northern part of the Sonoran Desert, as you would expect the summertime temperatures in Phoenix range rather high. Many days in the summer come with temperatures at 100 degrees and higher. However, with this climate also comes the advantage of warm and mild temperatures in the winter months, a boon to golfers who enjoy spending time in the outdoors.You will definitely want to spend time any day of the year at the El Caro Golf Course. Eighteen holes full of challenge, you will get to practice your skills on water features that are located on nine of the holes. Friendly on-site teachers are ready to help you hone your golfing game at the Glen Lakes Golf Course. Enjoy the three lakes that are skirted by both pine and palm trees, all of which come into play on a course that offers a great experience for both beginners and experts.The Kokopelli Golf Course offers views of seven serpentine-shaped lakes, along with greens that will challenge your skills. You can also enjoy desert vistas at the Foothills Golf Course. This is a course that will require you to use your full range of abilities in order to meet the exciting challenge that it provides.Scottsdale offers the phenomenal Continental Executive Golf Course. If you like water features, you will love the three holes that offer it here, as well as the elevated and roomy greens.No matter which of the stunning Phoenix golf courses you choose to visit, you are sure to have a great game any time of the year. Check them out online, and see how quick and easy it is to book your tee times now.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 28/05/2007 ][ viewed 81 times ]

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Phoenix Golf Courses Part 1

2008-01-18T23:08:00.000+07:00

Golfing in the Phoenix sunshine makes it a suitable year-round activity for the whole family. You can book Phoenix city golf tee times easily online. You will also see offers for discount Phoenix golf, so that it will be easy for you to enjoy your favorite game often. The game of golf comes with its own jargon, and understanding a bit of that lexicon can make the game much easier to understand.There are many specific terms for the wide variety of poor shots, for example. A chili dip happens when a golfer chips too short. A wormburner or groundhog killer is a shot when the ball is hit low across the ground, which can cause it to bounce quickly along the surface. If you want to break the rules you might do a foot wedge, when you kick your ball into a better spot. You'll get quite embarrassed if you miss the ball entirely after you swing at it. This event can be called a whiff shot.If you are new to the game of golf, you might hear more experienced and even professional players using some different terms. A bandit is a player who has a high handicap but plays better than you would expect. After a stroke is taken toward the green, you might hear a golfer say bit, or take a seat, meaning that they want the ball to stop or slow. Not surprisingly, a putting green can also be called the dance floor, and the rough can go by the names of jungle, brillo, or bundi. If a golfer makes a shot where the ball speeds past the hole instead of going in, they call that a taxi.You can try out all of these useful and colorful words on any of the glorious golf courses that Phoenix has to offer. If you want a challenging day out on the course, head over to Superstition Springs Golf Club. Golfweek Magazine has named it to a list of America's Best Golf Courses, and it offers a number of unique hazards, including water features, large bunkers, and a great deal of rolling ground, adding to both the fun and beauty of this lovely golf course. On the other hand, if Arnold Palmer is one of your golfing heroes, you will not want to miss an opportunity to play at the course that the great man himself designed, the Legend at Arrowhead. Interesting topography is featured at the Glen Lakes Golf Course. It includes pine and palm trees, with the addition of three pristine lakes, that come into play as you travel about this fabulous nine-hole executive course. All of these golf courses and more await you in Phoenix.

By Jonathan Blocker [ 28/05/2007 ][ viewed 89 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Five HOT new golf destinations

2008-01-18T23:04:00.000+07:00

There are so many golfing destinations to choose from, but these five hot destinations are attracting lots of interest. Innovative new courses and excellent facilities in Turkey, Cyprus, Tunisia, Argentina, and British Colombia have created excitement in the golfing world. The attractions include a range of challenging courses, all year round golf, and surrounds that are more exotic than more traditional golfing destinations.History, culture and golf on CyprusOne of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, with a warm climate year round, Cyprus has excellent golf courses with challenging greens and fantastic views. The new par 71 Aphrodite Hills course, perched above a beach, is surrounded by protected forest, and is divided in two by a deep ravine. The oldest course on the island, Tsada Golf Club, set 500 metres above sea level, has natural fairways running through old fruit orchards and vineyards. Golfing in Turkey – the perfect winter breakA golf holiday in the region of Belek, in the south west of Turkey, gives you access to miles of golden-sand beaches and unspoilt natural attractions as well as an exotic national culture. Here are eight excellent courses, many five-star hotels and lots of water sports activities. And the excellent value of a golf holiday in Turkey is a bonus. The main resort of Antalaya, with its 300 days of sunshine a year, pretty parks and palm-lined streets, is perfect for a winter break. Sand, sun and golf in TunisiaAlthough its hundreds of miles of sandy beaches, bustling markets, and stunning architecture, make it a popular tourist destination, Tunisia is also becoming one of the Mediterranean’s foremost golf holiday spots. Affordable accommodation, year-round sun, and a choice of 10 courses, with reasonable green fees, is a very tempting combination. The courses at Hammamet, designed around six lakes and 430 acres of olive trees, include Golf Citrus, with two 18-hole, par 72 championship courses, and the short and demanding par 72 Yasmine. A basic round can cost as little as £25. On the island of Djerba, further south, the resort Tabarka has a 27-hole course surrounded by date palms and overlooking the Mediterranean. Scenery and golf in ArgentinaArgentina is becoming increasingly popular as an exotic destination for golfers, and golfing facilities are available in most parts of the country. Being in the Southern Hemisphere, summer is from December to March and winter from June to October. The old par 72 Buenos Aires Golf Club, one of the world’s top 100 courses, has water features, bunkers and well-maintained greens. At the southeast tip of the country, in Patagonia, the Arelauquen Golf Club, near Bariloche, is surrounded by mountains, lakes of crystal-clear waters. Playing the 18-hole, par 72 course is an unforgettable experience, with views of the summits of Mount Catedral and Mount Otto and the backdrop of Lake Gutiérrez.British Columbia – golfing contrastsThe province of British Columbia, on the West Coast of Canada, is a rugged frontier for golfers, from its desert courses in the interior to the breathtaking mountain courses in the east. Around Vancouver, the Furry Creek Golf Course has ocean and mountain views from every hole, and the Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club was proclaimed the top new course in Canada in 1994. The four championship courses at Whistler includes the Jack Nicklaus designed Nicklaus North Golf Course, and the Chateau Whistler Golf Club, a pre-eminent mountain course. For contrast, try The Dunes Golf Course at Kamloops Golf Club, where lush fairways have been carved through sand that was once a riverbed. With four different sets of tees, The Dunes is both fun and challenging.

By Rod Ritchie [ 31/05/2007 ][ viewed 51 times ]

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Why Choose a Charleston Golf Vacation?

2008-01-18T22:57:00.000+07:00

Most golfers who visit the South Carolina coast for a golf vacation end up booking golf packages in Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head. More often than not, choosing Charleston, South Carolina for their golf vacation is the last thing on their minds.Charleston, SC is known throughout the world for its rich history, gracious hospitality, world-class cuisine, first-class accommodations, fabulous festivals, beautiful beaches and so much more. It is not however, well known for golf.While this is a negative for the golf community in Charleston, this is a plus for anyone who decides to choose a Charleston South Carolina golf vacation. Golf Digest even called this Lowcountry location a “Hidden Gem” in the golf world.With that in mind, vacationers will find the golf courses less crowded than other South Carolina golf destinations like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. Besides the smaller crowds on the golf courses, there are many things to keep you occupied when you are not on the links while on your Charleston, South Carolina golf vacation.But let’s focus on the important stuff – the golf. When you visit Charleston, you will not only see one of the oldest cities in the United States but you will also be enjoying golf where some folks believe golf began in the United States. Pinehurst, North Carolina claims to be the "The Home of American Golf." However, many historians would disagree. With the founding of The South Carolina Golf Club in 1786, many golf historians designate Charleston, South Carolina as the birthplace of golf in the United States.History aside, with Wild Dunes Resort to the north and Kiawah Island Resort to the south, this coastal city can hold its own against any great golf destination. Legendary golf course designers like Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye have put their stamp on golf courses in Charleston, South Carolina.Charleston golf courses have played host to many golf tournaments including the Ryder Cup, The Ginn Tribute Hosted by Annika Sorenstam, USGA National Championships and World Cup events. In the future, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island will host the 2007 Senior PGA Championship and the 2012 PGA Championship.Now if PGA, LPGA and other professional golf organizations feel like Charleston golf is good enough for their tournaments, it is certainly good enough for our golf game.Want another reason to book a Charleston, South Carolina golf vacation package? How about year-round weather that lends itself to year-round golf? While October and November are peak months for the golf industry, you will the golf courses less crowded and the green fees a little lower during December and January. And if you can stand the heat and humidity, summer is a great time to find discount golf packages in Charleston, SC as well. So the next time you are planning a golf vacation, whether it is with your family, business or golfing buddies, we suggest you take a second look at Charleston, South Carolina.Copyright 2007 Evans Putman and http://www.perfectgolfvacations.com - All Rights Reserved. Reprints allowed with no changes, omissions, or additions. All links must be left live and in tact.

By Evans Putman [ 15/08/2007 ][ viewed 31 times ]

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Odyssey White Steel and Dual Force Putters

2008-01-18T22:55:00.000+07:00

This article will discuss two product lines of putters from Odyssey, the White Steel and Dual Force putter lines.White SteelThe White Steel product line consists of 8 different putters broken down into two general classifications, the core models, which are based on traditional blade and mallet putter designs, and the Progressive models, which use more modern techniques for weight distribution and alignment aids.The common denominator of the White Steel putter line is the putter face. There are two inserts in the putter face, one is a light urethane insert that is also used in the White Hot line of putters. This insert is rather large and takes up a fair amount of the putter face. The material is light and provides for a soft feel at impact. This light material in the face means that there is more weight to the rear of the putter head and this places the CG (center of gravity) of the putter head farther back and also helps improve the MOI (moment of inertia). With a higher MOI the putter head will not twist as much on off-center hits, and this improves accuracy. A second insert of milled stainless steel is placed over the larger urethane insert. This insert is machine milled and has a consistent flat surface which improves the roll of the ball. It also has a pleasing sound, which also improves the overall “feel” of the putter. This line of putters also features a two-line alignment system, and the putters come with an anatomical grip which adds to the overall soft feel.There are 3 putters currently offered in the core product line, and these are called White Steel no.1, no. 5, and Rossie models. The White Steel no. 1 putter is a blade style which has a full-shaft offset. The White Steel no. 5 putter is a mallet style with a double bended shaft that gives a one-shaft offset. The White Steel Rossie is also a mallet putter with a one-shaft offset. All these putters have an MSRP of $119 and all the White Steel features described above, the double insert putter face, the two-line alignment feature, and an Odyssey Red Twirl Grip produced by Winn Grips, are included. In the Progressive product line there are three types of 2-Ball putters. The White Steel 2-Ball has the White Steel features along with 2-Ball alignment. This club retails for $169. The White Steel 2-Ball Mid has a mid-length shaft and retails for $235. The White Steel 2-Ball Blade 2 is a 2-Ball putter that has more of a blade shape on the heel and toe areas, and of course it has the 2-Ball alignment in the middle. The Odyssey web site did not have a sales page for this club on the normal link one clicks to see the price and place an order. Either they are out of stock or they have an incorrect link on the site- I suspect the latter. In any case no price is given for this putter.There are two putters offered with SRT (Saturn Ring Technology), a 3-Ball and a 2-Ball design. A semicircular ring of metal is on the back side of the putters. This configuration must have a very high MOI, so these would be great putters for golfers who have trouble consistently hitting putts solidly on the sweet spot. The White Steel Tri Ball SRT putter retails for $199, and the White Steel 2-Ball SRT putter sells for $189. Once again, all the White Steel product line features are on these clubs as well.Dual Force Odyssey Golf PuttersThe Dual Force 2 is an improved version of the classic putter that revolutionized putter design with the use of inserts on the putter face. In the new version the insert is called a Stronomic insert. The MOI of these putters has been increased as well. There are three putters available in this family, and these have the same forms as the ones in the White Steel core family, that is, no. 1, no. 5, and Rossie versions. As stated earlier, the No. 1 putter is a blade style design while the no. 5 and Rossie putters are mallet-style. They all have a one-shaft offset, and they each retail for $89, so these have the lowest prices of any putters in the Odyssey family.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 24/09/2007 ][ viewed 50 times ]

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Odyssey White Hot XG Golf Putters

2008-01-18T22:51:00.000+07:00

The Odyssey White Hot XG golf putters product line is only one of several lines offered by the Odyssey company, but it is extensive in itself with 18 different models to choose from. These break down into two groups, the Core Models which account for 11 different putter types, and the Progressive Models, which consist of 7 types of putters with more modern shapes and design features.All of the Odyssey White Hot XG putters are based on an advanced putter face insert technology which is designed to give a softer feel. The company states that the design was inspired by newer multi-layer golf balls which also are softer. Two different materials are used in the putter face to achieve this effect. First there is what is called an Elastometer core material which gives the putter its softer feel. On top of this is a thin outer striking surface which is a harder material. The impact zone is textured and supposedly this provides added feel, and the textured zone also surrounds and indicates the correct impact area, or sweet spot. In addition to this mixed-material insert technology, the Odyssey White Hot XG line of putters was designed to get the CG (center of gravity) of the clubs low and to the back of the club head. Accomplishing this also increases the MOI of the club which will provide some level of forgiveness if putts are not struck squarely on the sweet spot.Odyssey White Hot XG Core ModelsThe Core Models all use the technologies described above and are putters based on classic designs. That is, they are all variations of traditional blade or mallet putters. They are simply named Odyssey White Hot XG no. 1, no. 2, etc. up through no. 9. The no. 5 putter has a “CS” version, which means it is the same as the regular no. 5 but with a center shaft configuration. There is also a White Hot XG Rossi model. The Rossi model and the No. 1, no. 3, and no. 9 putters come in left-handed versions. In fact the no. 9 putter was used by lefty Phil Michelson to win the 2007 Players Championship. As mentioned, these clubs are takeoffs of traditional blade or mallet putters, but they come in different styles, with different amount of offsets, different shaft placements and other features. The most radical looking is putter no. 7, which is called a modified mallet putter with weighted wings in the back to help alignment of putts. All these putters come with an MSRP of $119 and can be purchased through a vast network of dealers or directly from the Odyssey web site. Pictures of each putter can be found on the Odyssey web site as well. Odyssey White Hot XG Progressive ModelsThe Odyssey Progressive line of putters uses more modern designs, especially with regard to putt alignment aids, as in the 2 Ball putters, and with more modern putter head weight redistribution techniques.There are two versions of the White Hot XG Marxman putters. One is more of a mallet configuration, while the other is based on a blade design. The main visual features are the long alignment stripes. The putters essentially look like two ball putters, but they have long parallel stripes rather than additional golf balls to help line up the putt. Aligning putts properly is a huge problem for most golfers, and most of us have a tendency to be misaligned, leaving the chances of making putts up to subconscious corrections or perhaps just luck. Both of the Marxman putters have in-line weighting and full shaft offset, and both retail for $169.The remaining five putters in the Progressive line are 2 Ball putters, and these have become popular with PGA Tour pros. As is the case with the Marxman models, there are 2 Ball putters based on both mallet and blade designs. These clubs both have full shaft offset, and the mallet model comes in a left-handed version. There is also a mallet-type model with a center shaft and no offset. All three of these putters retail for $169.The newest putters in the White Hot XG lineup use a design called “Saturn Ring Technology”. Basically a semi-circular ring of metal is added to the rear of the club head. This approach will clearly redistribute weight and improve the MOI of the club. This means that even if the putt is not struck exactly on the sweet spot, the club will not twist as much and will thus provide forgiveness on off-center putts. There is a standard length and long-shafted version of this design available. Both putters have a half-shaft offset and both retail for $189.Since most recreational golfers are notorious for hitting putts off-center and for having poor alignment, the Progressive Models of the Odyssey White Hot XG golf putters product line would seem to offer solutions that might help players hole more putts, lower scores, and have more fun playing the game.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 25/09/2007 ][ viewed 64 times ]

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The Detour Line of Putters by Scotty Cameron

2008-01-18T22:49:00.000+07:00

This article will describe the Detour line of putters by Scotty Cameron.The Scotty Cameron line of putters from Titleist is a very extensive line. The Scotty Cameron company merged with Titleist about 10 years ago and since then all the putters marketed by Titleist are designed by Cameron. All the brand names associated with Scotty Cameron putters are owned by Titleist. Cameron’s designs are esthetically pleasing, and some of his putters almost look like works of art or sculpture.The Detour line of putters are rather remarkable looking instruments. The putter heads consist of a blade type putter face and an attached back body plate, perpendicular to the face, which has a long aiming line. Both the back body plate and the aiming line are curved. Cameron is convinced that an arced stroke is the proper stoke for putting rather than a stroke that attempts to be straight along the target line from back to finish. The arc of the putter would move inside the target line in the back stroke, the putter would come square to the target line at ball impact, and the arc would continue inside the target line after the ball is struck. This is sometimes referred to as an inside-neutral-inside putting stroke. Not all the experts agree that an arced stroke is the proper one for putting. The renowned short game guru, Dave Pelz, states in his book “Putt Like the Pros” that most golfers would be better off with a stroke that remains along the target line throughout, although he acknowledges that many golfers, including top pros, use the arced stroke method, often with considerable success. Belly putters have become popular in recent years, and it is obvious that one is forced to use an arced stoke with such a putter.The arced back plate is made of an aircraft aluminum material. It has some holes in the bottom to take weight out of the middle of the plate, and a stainless steel weight is inserted in the back to place weight further back. The putter face is made of stainless steel and has a higher toe than heel. An addition weight is inserted into the toe of the putter head as well. The putter face also has a cushion material, called an Elastomer cushion, to give a softer feel at impact. All these weight redistribution techniques are used to increase the moment of inertia (MOI) of the putter and place the center of gravity (CG) of the club head in what Cameron considers the optimum positions. Increasing the MOI means that the club will be more forgiving on off center hits. The main and most obvious feature of the Detour line, however, is the curved back plate and curved aiming line which is truly a unique innovation.There are a total of 4 putters that have the Detour technology. They include the Detour and Detour 2, and the difference in these two clubs is that the Detour has a one shaft offset, whereas the shaft of the Detour 2 is straight. The Detour technology has also been incorporated into one of the older and popular lines of Cameron putters called the Newport line. The Newport 2 and the Newport 2.5 Detour putters both sport the curved flange and its associated weight distribution system described above. All four Detour putters have a loft of 4 degrees and a standard lie angle of 71 degrees. The Detour 2 and the Newport 2.5 Detour are not available for left handers. There are some options for length and club head weight on most of the models.The Detour putters by Scotty Cameron are remarkably creative innovations. Great attention is paid to esthetics and how the putter sits and looks to the golfer’s eye. IN addition the mix of materials used t produce the clubs take into account not only weight distribution and such technical issues as MOI and CG, but great effort is also placed into optimizing the feel and sound the putter makes at ball impact. It will be interesting to see how popular these ideas become in the future, especially the long curved aiming line. All four of the Detour putters have a retail price of $300, so they are expensive, premium clubs.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 07/10/2007 ][ viewed 50 times ]

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Cameron Mallet Putters, the RED X® and Futura Phantom, and Two Limit Edition Cameron Models

2008-01-18T22:46:00.000+07:00

This article will discuss several putter product lines offered by Scotty Cameron and Titleist. These will include the two lines of mallet putters, the RED X® series and the Futura Phantom, as well as two limited edition putters.RED X® Mallet PuttersAs is the case with many of Scotty Cameron’s putters, the mallet head designs of this line are very sculptured looking and pleasing to the eye. There is at once a certain boldness in the designs but also a simplicity as well. One wonders if Cameron doesn’t do sculpture on the side. The newest putters in this series, the Red X3 and the Red X5, are just being shipped to Titleist retailers as this article is being written in mid-September 2007. Both of these putters are milled from 303 stainless steel, and they have a black anodized sole plate as well as a glare resistant charcoal mist finish. Cameron has used this glare resistant finish on a number of his putter designs for 2007. All the mallet putters in the product line have a single alignment line. The differences between these two putters are that the Red X3 has a traditional shaft with a ¼ shaft offset obtained by a single bend in the shaft, and that the Red X5 has a full shaft offset and a plumbing neck. Both have the standard 4 degrees of loft and 71 degrees of lie angle, and they both come in lengths of 33, 34, and 35 inches. For left-handers, only the Red X3 is available in a 35 inch length.The older members of this product line are the Red X and the Red X2, and there are a number of variations of these. There are belly putters for both models, called the Red X Mid and the Red X2 Mid, and there is a long length putter called the Red X2 Long. These putters were designed in 2003, and Cameron did a lot of research with different materials to obtain the best feel and sound possible at impact. The heads are made of stainless steel, and there is an additional face insert made of a different type of stainless steel, and the insert is given an elastomer border which helps give good feel and sound at impact. The difference between the Red X and the Red X2 is in the shaft configuration. The Red X has a single bend one shaft offset and the shaft connects to the putter head about half way between the center of the mallet head and the heel. There is no shaft offset on the Red X2, and the shaft connects to the mallet just behind the middle of the putter head. All the putters in the Red X line retail for $300.Future Phantom Mallet PuttersThere are two putters in this product line, the Mallet and the Mallet 2. The difference between the two is that the shaft connects to the mallet head at almost the center for the Mallet 2, whereas for the Mallet putter the shaft connects closer to the heel. There is no shaft offset for either putter. As the product line name implies, these putters have a very futuristic and stylish look to them. Behind the flat putter face is a stainless steel back plate that has a five-line alignment configuration. Behind that is a semicircular bar which gives the putter its mallet shape. It is obvious from simply looking at these putters that the weight has been redistributed to obtain a high moment of inertia, or MOI, which provides forgiveness on off-center hits. The putters come with the standard loft of 4 degrees and standard lie angle of 71 degrees, have no shaft offset, and are available in lengths of 34 and 35 inches. The Mallet 2 is only available in right-handed models. The materials used to produce the mallet heads are 661 aircraft aluminum with a stainless steel back weight, as mentioned above. Both putters retail for $300.Limited Edition Catalina ClassicThis is a classic putter design with only about 2000 pieces produced. The head of the putter is made of carbon steel and is coated with the charcoal mist anti-glare finish which also increases the putter’s durability. There is a single aiming line on the back center flange, and the grip is a soft stitched leather.Teryllium Ten Limited Edition Teryllium is a copper metal made from 12 different alloys, and it provides a soft feel and good sound due to the thick copper insert. Cameron released the first teryllium putters 10 years ago and is following up with an updated version. The sleek black look combined with the copper metal color, as well as the putter’s shape, make it a really beautiful instrument. Soft hand stitched leather grips are standard. The two mallet putter product lines offered by Cameron and Titleist, the RED X® series and the Future Phantom mallet putters, offer an exceptional range of choices for golfers who are sold on mallets. I have used a mallet for years because it let me hit solid putts on a consistent basis. For the golfer who has everything, the two limited edition lines provide unique putter choices as well.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 07/10/2007 ][ viewed 57 times ]

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Cleveland Golf Putters

2008-01-18T22:44:00.000+07:00

Cleveland Golf is more famous for its lines of wedges and wood clubs, but they have an interesting line of putters as well which offer a nice variety of choices even though they only have about a dozen models in their latest offerings. Cleveland Golf Putters GM2 Exchange Product LineThese putters are the latest in the high end of the Cleveland Golf Putters lines. Their particular unique feature is a set of exchangeable weights that offer the golfer the opportunity to customize the clubs and account for different conditions or to compensate for certain tendencies in his or her putter stroke. That is, if a golfer tends to hit putts short, more weight can be added to have the ball travel further with the same stroke. One can adjust for fast or slow greens in the same manner, or for greens of different types of grass that roll differently. The putter heads can be adjusted from 320 grams to 370 grams, and more or less weight can also be added to the head or toe areas to account for individual preferences. There are five putters in this product line, two mallet style designs, two blade inspired putters, and a sort of combination of the two called the boomerang model. The putters are simply called GM2 Exchange numbers 1 through 5.Exchange model 1 is a mallet style with a heel shafted putter. The body is made from milled aluminum, and there is a lighter composite aluminum face insert. Of course this type of design will have a high MOI, or moment of inertia, which reduces twist or turn of the clubface on putts not struck exactly on the sweet spot. There is a very prominent alignment aid, and I personally think this is a nice looking putter with an excellent design. Model number 2 is has essentially the same features, although it is a center shafted putter and is available for left handed golfers. Exchange model 3 is called the Boomerang, and that is a pretty good description. The putter looks to have two wings behind the toe and heel of the club, and a rounded arc which makes up the boomerang section, with the arc bending in toward the putter face. This model has a double bended shaft. Model number 4 is a blade inspired design. The putter has a bent neck shaft and a ¾ shaft offset. Its body is made of milled 304 stainless steel. This club also comes in left handed models. Finally, Model 5 is essentially the same as number 4 with a couple of exceptions. This putter has a plumber's hosel as well as a 1 ½ shaft offset. Both number 4 and 5 are heel and toe weighted to increase the MOI of the putters.Cleveland Visual Performance (VP™) Golf PuttersThis line of putters consists if three clubs and sports a unique feature. That is, these clubs have an alignment aid that allows the golfer to be certain his or her head is directly over the ball and that the hands are in the proper position. A number of experts feel that the eyes of the golfer should be directly over the ball, including Dave Pelz, the well-known short game guru and author of "Putt Like the Pros" and other books. In any case this alignment feature will allow the golfer to make sure he is lining up the same each time, and this should help to minimize inconsistencies in his stroke. The VP 1 putter is a blade inspired design with a slanted plumber's hosel and a full shaft offset. It also has a soft elastomer face insert for better feel and control. The V2 putter head very closely resembles the V1, but this putter has a different hosel. It has what is called a C-Neck hosel with a half shaft offset. The same face insert and alignment aids are on both clubs. The V3 model is a great looking mallet style putter (I confess to liking mallets with a modern look and design). This putter will have an exceptionally high MOI, and it has a double bend shaft with a ¾ shaft offset. All the other features are included, including the alignment and setup aids and the face insert. Designed By Putters- Limited Editions For a Little NostalgiaThe Designed By 1905 is a remake of the old Calamity Jane style blade putter. Cleveland has incorporated a soft metal material previously introduced in wedges that has been acclaimed for providing a soft feel. If you really like the old traditional styles but appreciate the latest technologies, the Designed By series might be for you. The Designed by 1948 looks like an old Bull's Eye style, but once again using more modern materials. Both putters come with soft leather grips to complement the nostalgic styling.I really like the Cleveland Golf Putter line. It has lots to offer, several areas of unique innovation, and quite a few choices for a line with only a dozen offerings. A fair number of pros on the PGA Tour are using these putters, so they must perform well as well.

By Walter Ballenberger [ 16/10/2007 ][ viewed 66 times ]

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