Playing Golf with the Girl Next Door

You know her, right? She's Kendra Wilkinson, one of the Girl's Next Door.

Back in the old days, when you said "girl next door" it meant; "a wholesome, naturally pretty, demure female who embodies a man's more mature and tamer instincts for tender companionship". Today however, that definition seems to have have...evolved... a bit.

Kendra, for example, isn't particularly demure. She shares her 82 year old boyfriend with two other voluptuous blondes, loves boxing and has been know to perform as a "painted girl". (That, for those not up on such things, is "a women who entertains completely nude, except for painted-on accessories"

OK, enough with the popular culture lessons, Kendra also plays golf. She's the "the sporty one" of Hugh Hefners three fair haired girlfriends. That's what she told reporters at Ryan Sheckler’s X Games Celebrity Golf Tournament.

The celebrity studded event, hosted by X Games champion Ryan Sheckler, took place the day before yesterday at the awesome Trump National Golf Course in Palos Verdes, CA, and included an 18 hole skins game where players were pitted against one another in match play for the opportunity to win a $10,000 skin for the charity of their choice on each hole. There was also a putting contest for additional charity prizes. Some of the celebs competing on Tuesday were actors like Jerry O'Connell,Brody Jenner and the gorgeous Audrina Partridge. Soccer Star Mia Hamm played too, as did the much maligned Kevin Federline. It seems K-Fed was teeing off just as the earthquake struck, but just slightly rattled by it.

Some of the charities that benefited from Ryan Shekler's event are: Wings for Life, a charity that funds scientific research into spinal cord injuries, Boarding for Breast Cancer, a non-profit youth focused organization that works to create awareness about the disease, and Ryan's own foundation that focuses on Children's Cancer research.

OK, there are some golf purists out there who would undoubtedly find this type of event to be low brow and disrespectful of the game, but as I see it in today's celeb obsessed world these individuals have an amazing ability to raise funds...and awareness...for laudable and often overlooked causes. And what better way to do it than with golf.

Oh, I almost forgot; Kendra's outfit...what do you think? The shoes look too much like running shoes to me. I like a golf shoe that's a little more polished. I absolutely love the skirt, but... call me old-fashioned... I still don't approve of tank tops for golf. The top should be a contoured, sleeveless polo, IMHO. And the visor; normally I hate the look, but Kendra's an exception. I think it looks awesome on her. All in all I'd give Kendra an 8 out of 10. Not bad for the Girl Next Door.

Golf in Russia - It's Just Getting Started

Recently, in the afterglow of the British Open, the European Tour moved on to a place where golf is still in its infancy; Russia.

There are only three 18 hole courses in the entire country... and a correspondingly low fan base... but golf is poised to grow in this paradoxical country. The Russian Golf Association has ambitious plans to build as many as 500 golf sites in Russia by 2018 and last year, Moscow held its first ever Golf Expo show.

Golf in Moscow is prohibitively expensive. Additionally the city's golf clubs maintain major "security teams" to enforce exclusivity order. Like nightclub bouncers behind a velvet rope, they make it extremely difficult for an aspiring golfer to get near a fairway or green. However, when you leave the capital, that all changes.

In Krasnodar a city in Southern Russia where they've got plans underway for their first private country club community, the vibe is warm and welcoming. One can only imagine that it will be this new attitude that'll ultimately grow golf in Russia.

The Krasnodar golf course won't be finished for another two years but in the meantime the Orange Golf Driving Range has been opened so that future golfers can start acquiring some skills.

If you happen to be in Krasnodar anytime soon...you're invited to hit a bucket of balls.

The O'Shea Open - A Fun Family Tournament

Family golf tournaments are awesome.

I don't come from a golf family myself. Growing up, our club was a Yacht Club, not a country club, and we spent the sweet New England summers sailing on Long Island Sound. I raced sunfish and catamarans every day, but never hit a golf ball.

Fortunately however, The O'Shea family did grow up with golf, and they host an annual family tournament in Lynn. MA, just north of Boston. They're a family of lawyers, with distinctive Boston accents and a collective passion for golf, and they really made us feel welcome at this year's O'Shea Open.

The tournament is all about family, friends and fun. The course, Kelly Greens, is a casual, coastal 9 hole, and there were golfers of all ages and ability levels. It was a quintessential New England summer day and copious amounts of beer liquid refreshment were on hand. Not surprisingly the crazy, funny shots garnered more applause than the near perfect ones.














Above, my team mate "June Bug" and I enjoy a drink after our round. We didn't come near to winning the trophy, but we did get the "best dressed" award for our Golf Girl caps and matching shirts. BTW, our colorful piqué polos can be had at Target right now for ...you're not going to believe this...$6.99!

For the LPGA, it's on to the UK

Amazingly, the 15th Evian Masters was won today by the same player who won the first ever Evian Masters, way back in 1994.

In an exciting three-way, sudden-death play-off earlier today, Sweden's Helen Alfredsson won the tournament for the 3rd time... at age 43!

21 year old Na Yeon Choi and 19 year old Angela Park were the other two contenders in the thrilling three-way, so this victory once again highlights the fact that, as Ms. Alfredsson herself put it: In golf, "Age doesn't seem to be that big a deal".

Now, after a week in the enchanting, sun dappled French Alps. The ladies of the LPGA are off to the somewhat more uncertain climate of the UK, and Sunningdale Golf Club, where the The British Women's Open will soon be underway.

In this video, taken in early July, the awesome Cristie Kerr talks about how she prepares for the British Women's Open.



Cristie is gorgeous ...and has that rare combination of humor, elegance and a true sense of empathy, that make her a fan favorite. ...And now, after her impressive T6 finish in Evian, lots of golf fans have her on their short list to win at Sunningdale.

Glamorous Golf in Evian

Glamorous Evian Masters 2008
envoyé par evianmasters

Check the official Evian Masters site for more stylish highlights...along with player interviews, swing videos, course annimation and more! And don't forget to send a cheer to your fave player.

Lacoste in Evian - Golf Fashion and Golf History

Along with the world's top women golfers, there'll be another welcome presence in the Alpine Hills of Evian-les-Bains this week: A smiling green crocodile.

Not only is Lacoste an eagle sponsor at Evian Masters, they sponsor Lorena Ochoa who currently holds the lead at the tournament and is rarely seen in a shirt or sweater that doesn't bear the iconic reptile logo. Beautiful Cristie Kerr is also a Lacoste girl. Who could forget her U.S. Open win last year in that bright red polo? Right now she's at -2 with a group that includes Paula Creamer, Yani Tseng, Se Ri Pak and others. Then there are French golfers Patricia Munier-Lebouc (who won at Mission Hills in 2003, BTW) and Gwladys Nocera. They often wear black Lacoste (French girls are so chic, aren't they?) Guy golfers with names like Olazabel and Allenby and Jimenez also sport the preppy little croc on their polos.

The 75 year old French apparel company, with the world famous logo, is headquartered in Paris. It's a family run company and their connection with golf goes beyond that of most brands, because this family has lived golf at the highest levels.

Catherine Lacoste (pictured at left in the adorable bucket hat) is the daughter of company founder, Rene Lacoste, himself a champion tennis player. In 1967 Catherine won the U.S. Open as a 22 year old amateur, playing in just her third professional golf tournament. She then went on to win both the both the United States Women's Amateur Golf Championship and the British Ladies Amateur Championship in 1969. She was a big hitter with a powerful game. Golf Digest would call her "arguably the most powerful player of her era." However, that was the 60's, women's golf was not what it is today and society offered fewer choices to women. in the end Catherine never went professional, choosing instead to pursue family life. She had four children and dedicated herself to family business interests. She was president of Chantaco Golf Club for 30 years and still serves on the board of directors of Lacoste, the company her father founded.

After researching this story, when I see Lorena and her faithful crocodile this weekend, I'm sure I'll think about the short sparkling golf career of Catherine Lacoste and what might have been.

Lacoste - Fascinating Facts

Rene Lacoste won 7 Grand Slam singles titles in the French, American, and British tennis championships. He was the world number one player for both 1926 and 1927.

The crocodile was actually an alligator. The American press called Rene,"Alligator" because of a bet he made on a match, where the stakes included an alligator suitcase. There was no French word for alligator so the nickname was changed to "le crocodile". A friend drew out the reptilian logo and it was embroidered on to Rene's blazers in later onto the famous polo shirts.

The alligator origins of the logo were confirmed at the time of Rene's death. French Advertising agency Publicis, who had been managing the Lacoste account for decades, published a print ad with the Lacoste logo and the English words "See you later...".

Rene himself designed the polo shirt, and it was revolutionary for it's pique knit and short sleeves at a time when tennis was played in stiff, long sleeved, cotton oxford shirts. the crocodile logo embroidered on the chest was the first example of a brand appearing on the outside of an article of clothing.

Catherine Lacoste's mother,Simone Thion de la Chaume, was also a French golf champion.In 1924 she became the first foreign player to win the British Girls Amateur Championship and in 1927 the first to win the British Ladies Amateur Championship, which her daughter won years later.

Lorena Ochoa has played golf with Catherine Lacoste on a couple of occasions. Catherine's husband is Spanish and she speaks the language fluently. When asked about playing with the Mexican champion, Catherine said, " I always sense that Lorena is smiling at the ball". I hear they may be playing together again later this summer ...and Cristie Kerr may be joining them.

I love Lacoste shirts and currently own 9. I intend to obtain many more in the future.
(There's a new Lacoste shop in my home town of Greenwich, so, yay!)

Make sure you keep up with the action at the Evian Masters site.




Parts of this story were originally posted on my blog, Red Tee Tales at GolfforWomen.com

Do You Like a Little Glitter with your Golf?

I certainly do!

And so do lots of girls...including most of the Duramed Futures Tour... and even Miss Paula Creamer. We all use Blingo Ball Markers.

The sparkley little disks, are encrusted with Swarovski crystals... and they come in tons of really pretty colors. You can even request your own custom combinations. I did. Pink and green of course.

But the really awesome thing is that they're hand made by Charlotte Campbell. If you don't know Charlotte yet you probably will soon because she's one of the contestants on the new golf reality show, Highway 18 which can now be seen Tuesdays at 10pm EST, on the Golf Channel.

Charlotte started making "Blingo Ball marks", as a way to raise money to play professional golf ...and we've all head how difficult finances can be for players trying to make a go at a professional golf career.

Charlotte's ball mark business started out small, but is growing rapidly. Blingo Ball Marks are $15/each, with discounts for volume orders. So if you want to add some shimmer to your game, head right over to the Blingo Ballmark Website.

Oh, BTW, I found out about Charlotte, and her ball markers over at Golf Babes, the awesome blog about the gorgeous girl of golf.

Inside The LPGA - Live Tonight

Karen Palacios-Janson is amazing.

I've written about her here before; she's the gorgeous LPGA teaching professional who also runs a company, writes, blogs, consults, models, promotes and inspires.

I voraciously read her blogs, tips and articles, and when we cross paths out in the golf blogosphere... and actually get to have a real conversation... it always seems she's added yet another awesome undertaking to her schedule.

One KPJ venture I particularly enjoy are her live Inside the LPGA broadcasts on Prime Sports Network. She and her co-host Ken Hartis (whose own Hound Dog's LPGA Blog is awesome) recap the most recent LPGA events, and discuss the ones that are upcoming... and they do it with the unique insight of those intimately aquainted with the LPGA tour and its players.

This week's show begins just a couple of hours from now at at 7pm EDT. There'll be a recap of the State Farm Classic, as well as a preview and picks for the Evian Masters. So check it out the live broadcast if you read this in time...if not, the archive of it will remain available until the next show goes out live. Yep, as usual, Karen's got you covered.

Golf and Glamour in the French Alps

It's one of the most beautiful and elegant venue's on the LPGA tour, and for the moment it's home to world's top golf girls.

And with $ 3,250.000 in prize money, the Evian Masters joins the US Women's Open, as one of the richest competitions on the LPGA Tour.

Be sure to point your browser to the Evian Masters website, and check out the live coverage and historical documentation. The site is the home to Evian Masters TV where you'll find new videos each day, including interviews with the players, tips from the practice areas and highlights from the past 15 years. The site is available in English, French and Japanese and like everything else about this tournament it's very classy.

The thing is, with such a stellar field, it's going to be hard to pick a winner but some golf bloggers are trying, and with their dedication to women's golf, you can be sure the team at Mostly Harmless, will be blogging on this event throughout. They've got a great post on the first round pairings today. Yes, I'll be checking in with these guys regularly.

Bang-go: Golf Fashion Faux Pas? You Tell Me

Les gouts et les couleurs ne se discutent pas. Or so say the French.

What it means... basically... is, there's no accounting for taste, and that's where I want you to step in.

Is it just me, or is the bang-go (pictured at left) so dorky looking as to be bad for golf?

I mean bad for the image of golf... because lets face it, golf already has an image problem due to a long history of fashion foibles... and I don't think it can afford another one. At least not one so monumental as this.

But, then I'm thinking maybe it's just me. Maybe my taste in fashion has been distorted by too many years of living in New York and Paris. Perhaps I'm reflecting a fashion elitism that's out of touch with the majority. After all, lots of people seem to like Crocs, right? So maybe droves of golfers will embrace the bang-go. After all, who am I to judge, I'm even a bit skittish about visors.

So that's what I want you to tell me. Are you OK with this? Would you wear the bang-go? Do you think it would further entrench golf's reputation for dorky fashion? Do tell.

Fred Daly - Padraig's British Open Predecessor

I apologize. To you my readers, and to the late Fred Daly.

Mr. Daly was a Northern Irish golfer, who won the Open Championship in 1947 at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club... and his story was an inspiring one. He was actually a former caddie who had never had a golf lesson in his life when he won the championship.

In an earlier post I erroneously wrote that Padraig Harrington had been the first Irish golfer to win the British Open.

I received an email this morning for an awesome reader of mine pointing out the omission and providing me with a much needed lesson in British Open history.

So thank you Christian Hostrup, for bringing this Irish champion of the past to my attention.

Ryan Parker's Funny "Golf Without Tiger" Video

I'm reblogging this from Oobgolf because I find it so funny. And clever. Not that I really agree with the premise. I'm a huge Tiger fan, but I'm actually finding golf more interesting without him... for the time being.

Not for too long though. Please. ooo

More videos from the "ryanparkersongs's channel" channel at Heavy.com

The 2008 British Open - Final Notes

For only the second time in history, the British Open has been won by a player from the Republic of Ireland, Padraig Harrington.

The first time was last year, and the winner was... the same Padraig Harrington. So Padraig is now the first Irishman to win, the second Irishman to win and the first European to win back-to-back, in a quarter of a century. And that's impressive... And it makes me quite proud as Padraig is a distant cousin of mine.

Of course the huge story of this windswept event at Royal Birkdale was Greg Norman.

In the end, it was another "what could have been" story for a man who's had so many of those in his golf career. But this one was way different from those of the past, from those bitter defeats and monumental meltdowns in what were meant to be his glory years.

This year Greg Norman's Open Championship story was in no way bitter. You can't really be bitter when you're a newlywed, playing at such a high level, at 53, and you've achieved as much as Mr. Norman has, both on and off the course. With a two-shot lead heading into the final round yesterday, Mr. Norman ultimately came up short, resulting in a tie for third. Nonetheless, his 2008 British Open adventure was totally unexpected, universally uplifting and an extraordinary inspiration to watch.

Finally, anyone who knows me, knows I've been a huge fan of a certain stylish Englishman since the beginning of time...well, since the beginning of this blog anyway. That, of course, would be the fashionable, fun-loving Ian Poulter, and I've occasionally taken some slack for my fidelity to a golfer known mainly for his clothes or... total lack thereof. Ian's golf was overshadowed by glittery slacks or offbeat head gear. Off course, he had a predilection for posing nude...and then there was the "me and Tiger" statement that caused such controversy early this year. Well, in a rather discreet white-on-white over pale pink outfit, Ian Poulter carded a one-under 69 yesterday for a second place finish, and most are now seeing beyond the flashy fashion sense to the solid golf skills that may well land this player on the European Ryder Cup. Much to my delight.

The quintessential windy, gray, English weather was also part of the story, coming into play as it did, throughout the tournament. In the end, despite the absence of Tiger Woods, The 2008 British Open was both inspiring and entertaining... and that's exactly what I want from golf.

Photos - Stuart Franklin / Getty Images

Michelle Wie's Unfortunate State Farm Mishap

It was an honest mistake... there's no question about that... but a mistake it was. A rather monumental one, as it turned out, for Michelle Wie.

Because when she momentarily stepped outside of the scoring tent on Friday without signing her scorecard, Michelle took with her not only a decent chance at winning her first LPGA tournament, but also a likely automatic exemption for all LPGA tournaments in 2009.

But rules are rules, and rule 6-6, is one of those in place to ensure the integrity of golf's honor system. The incident happened after Friday's round, but Michelle played her full round on Saturday, shooting a 7 under 65 and coming to within one stroke of leader Yani Tseng, before being informed that she was out. The delay was due it seems to a communications issue.

Can you imagine how crushing that must have been? You'd be reliving the moment over and over, trying to figure out how you managed to overlook such a basic step. One you've automatically taken after each and every tournament round... except this one. And that would be torture.

But Michelle pulled herself up and went out and spoke reporters. And she did so with candor and humility at what must have been one of the most traumatic moments in a career that's been rife with controversy.

Reactions to this latest incident have come in along party lines, so to speak; with diehard Wie fans criticizing the rules for being too draconian, or slamming their enforcement for being too unbalanced, or dissing the LPGA for... being the LPGA. At the same time, equally committed Wie haters have added "careless rules flaunter who got caught in the act" to the long list of things to hate about Michelle.

In the end, I think it was simply a life lesson, albeit a really tough one, for an 18 year old who's own life and career have moved at lightning speed; the old cross your t's and dot your i's lesson. The one that says the devil is in the details...the often mundane details. We've all gone through it...We've all overlooked a tiny little detail, that ended up having great big consequences. Meticulous two time British Open Champion, Padraig Harrington apparently made the same mistake...and unsigned scorecard...in 2000. So there.

I don't think this occurrence is going to have a catastrophic effect on Michelle Wie's career, or her future. I think she'll reflect on this and get back to doing what she has to do to play golf at a highly competitive level again, the route may be a bit more circuitous due to this error, but I have no doubt she'll take it and I look forward to seeing where she ends up.

What do you think of all this. Of the rule, of the incident, of Miss Michelle Wie?

photo - LEE MILNER / Associated Press

Golf Fashion at the Blustery British Open - 3rd Round

High winds are what it's all about today.

How high? Well high enough to move balls around on the putting greens. Which can be rather disturbing. Just ask Anthony Kim who turned his hat around and called in an official due to capriciously strong wind gusts. There's even some discussion of suspending play. It's that windy. But for now it on, and the guys are still out there battling with the bluster.

Right now, awesome KJ Choi is in the lead, defending champion Padraig Harrington has moved up to second and Greg Norman is holding on to third. But that'll undoubtedly change as play continues today. And Jim Furyk, Camillo Villegas...Ian Poulter (!) and a number of others, are waiting in the proverbial wings.

Now for a style note. The golfer above is France's Jean-Baptiste Gonnet and he hit a triple today. Yep. What I mean is, he managed to combine three of the looks I featured in my Open fashion post yesterday: He's got the black on black going on ... AND he's added the argyle...topped off by the wool beanie. What can I say, I'm impressed. But then again he's French.

Jean-Baptiste is currently a ways back on the leaderboard at +10. He's one of four French players on that wind blown course today, with Gregory Havret, Gregory Bourdy (who I wrote about earlier this year) and the infamous Jean Van de Velde. Yes, I'll admit it, I have a thing for French golfers maybe it's because I played my first round ever in France...and maybe because my photographer caddy husband is French. Yes, that probably has something to do with it.

Golf Fashion at the Blustery British Open

As we swelter here in New England, wearing as little as possible on the links, the gentlemen over at Royal Birkdale are treating us to a fall fashion show, thanks to the wind, rain and chilly temperatures.

Like the winter runway shows that take place in early spring, or the back to school styles beginning to flood our malls, the wintery wardrobes on display over in Lancashire look ... quite refreshing. Isn't it amazing how quickly we tire of the very pastels and sunny brights that seem so seductive in March?

Of course we're all glued to the leaderboards... and following the live coverage... so we know about Gregg Norman's continuing comeback, Camillo Villegas's eight birdie round and Sergio Garcia's monster putt on number 4. Rocco Mediate is right up there too, making a lot of golf fans happy. But we're talking about fashion here. What are the latest looks... and which guys are making the style statements?

The Looks

Awesome Argyles - I know... there are some out there who hate Argyle, and I'll admit argyle abuse can be problematic, but the diagonal diamonds appearing at Royal Birkdale are awesome. Camillo added a dash down the left side of his sweater, Prayad Markaseng and Scott Verplank went classic and Singapore's Lam Chih-Bing wore unique his argyle across his arms.






















Black on Black - Black is the color of authority. It makes anyone look edgier...and thinner. It can also be somewhat overpowering and make the wearer seem aloof and evil. I guess that's a pretty good way to look when you're contesting the British Open. Defending champion Padraig Harrington, two time U.S. Open winner Retief Goosen and everyman golfer Rocco Mediate we three of many who wore this elegant look. John Daly did too, perhaps inspired by the thinness theory.












Cantaloupe is the New Pink - There are almost no pastels to be seen on the grounds of Royal Birkdale, but one did stand out. Pink's cousin cantaloupe was on the scene and looking quite stellar I might add. Notably, a certain female golfer known as the pink panther has been shifting towards melon tones lately. My favorite look of the tournament so far was the dreamy cantaloupe sweater worn by China's Wen-Chong Liang and of course one can always count on Johan Edfors to be on the cutting edge of a trend.








Beanies are Back - There are those players who'll never give up their visors and others who don't wear any kind of hat at all... ever. The woolen ski hat is not an easy look to pull off, but cool weather on the course always brings with it a band of brave beanie boys, as it did these last couple of days at the British Open. Jim Furyk Davis Love III, Justin Leonard and Adrian Dennis are four of those brave boys.






















Amazing Umbrellas - The rain and drizzle brought out some very impressive umbrella power and... I don't know what this says about me...but I love a fierce umbrella (ella, ella, eh, eh, eh - as Rihanna would add - but that's irrelevent here). Australian Andrew Tampion and Englishman Steve Webster take cover under some beautiful brellies.










I'm going to be updating my British Open Look Book throughout the weekend so check back here over the next couple of days, and (if I'm not playing golf myself on Sunday) I'll be live blogging The Open Championship final with other golf bloggers and fans on Twitter, follow me at Golf Girl.

All photos c/o Getty Images

Sex in the Office - At a Golf Magazine?

It does happen ... and I'm looking forward to witnessing it next week, right here in Connecticut.

There is, a prominent golf magazine with offices here... just down the road from me in fact... but don't jump to any conclusions. I'm going to catch this action on the stage of the Westport Country Playhouse, a wonderful theater, housed in a red barn, in the artsy CT town of Wesport.

Scramble! is described as "a delicious office comedy about the howlingly incompetent staff of a golf magazine". (ouch)

Anyway, when a rumor spreads that the magazine may be sold, everyone fears that their job is on the line, leading to "outlandish relationships, mistaken identities and hilarious situations". All the characters end up in "intimate situations" for all the wrong reasons, and in some instances, with all the wrong people. It sounds like lots of fun to me... the show, I mean... and I'll be checking it out on Tuesday.

When I heard about this play, I immediately wondered what inspired it, and how a golf magazine came to be the setting. Well that question was answered, by the playwright himself, David Wiltse, in a video interview together with Tracy Brigden, the play's director. Mr Wiltse, is currently playwright-in-residence at Westport Country Playhouse and has won numerous awards for his work, however, I don't get the feeling he plays much golf.

If Loving You is Wrong...Well You Know the Rest

I know... it's not even a golf shoe... but every now and then, for no reason at all, I actually find myself considering an $875. shoe. This time the coup de foudre happened with the Manolo Blahnik Trampa.

Then I come to my senses and go back to the sensible shopping site.

Hopefully.

Golf Girls Give...The Clothes off Their Backs (updated)

The ladies of the LPGA are known for their generosity. After all, raising money for charity is one of the main objectives of the LPGA and its tournaments.

In addition, a number of these glamorous stars are working tirelessly for the laudable causes they hold near and dear. They've started foundations and held events...they've raised both awareness and much needed funding.

Cristie Kerr's Birdies for Breast Cancer program comes to mind. Through Cristie's efforts on and off the course, numerous corporations and hundreds of friends and fans have been inspired to donate and join the fight against breast cancer.

Then there's Paula Creamer's Paula 4 Kids event which raises money for the First Tee and their development of dedicated facilities to provide access to golf and life skills programs for children.

Well now there's a way you can get into the act and give, with these amazing stars and other charitable golf girls. It's a really fun way too, because it involves shopping for golf gear. Not just any golf gear either. Through the awesome organization Clothes off our Backs you can bid on autographed items...apparel and accessories...donated by the LPGA stars.

Proceeds of this special LPGA State Farm Classic Auction will go to Hall of Fame golfer, Betsy King's Golf Fore Africa , which deals with the terrible plight of children orphaned by AIDS in Africa.

In addition to the apparel and accessories there are passes to the Solheim Cup and Samsung Championship. The auction ends on July 27. So check out the site and get ready to bid, but be ready for some competition from me. Having spent many hours ...and hundreds of dollars... on ebay, I know my way around an auction, and I've already got a number of coveted items on my watch list.

A note of thanks to the fabulous guys from Styled to a Tee for turning me onto this...among other things.

Update: Savvy shoppers will want to add an email Auction Notification to keep up with bids - from one who knows. :o)

Golf in the Alps - The Awesome Evian Masters

For fifteen years now, in a slice of paradise between snow capped mountains and crystal clear lakes, the top golf girls gather to contest the Evian Masters.

The spectacular alpine setting, the glamour of fine European golf tradition and, of course, the stellar play of the worlds best, create a truly special tournament. Many LPGA stars list it among their favorite stops on the tour.



I was in Evian-les-Bains a couple of years ago, just a week after playing golf for the first time...in my life. Needless to say, I didn't get beyond the Evian Royal Resort's 5 hole pitch and putt. Even that was gorgeous however, and I promised myself I'd get back to play the Master's course... which I will one of these days.

For now I'm just looking forward to this year's tournament which runs from July 24 to 27. It promises to be especially exciting with story lines galore. I'll be posting more as the the event approaches. In the meantime check out the official website for all kinds of news, history, profiles and info...lots of interactivity too...like live blogging and podcast, social networking and contests. You can even send cheer message to your favorite players... like I just did to my fave, Cristie Kerr.

So check the out the Evian Masters site and get involved, it's the next best thing to being there.

Remembering A Golf Wedding Weekend

Summer is speeding by. I can't believe a month has passed since our weekend in Northern NH.

We played golf at a couple of beautiful resorts in the foothills of Mt. Washington and went to the awesome golf course wedding of my adorable cousin Doni and his beautiful bride Hilary. Everything was amazingly perfect and it was a great way to launch the summer.

Doni & Hilary are now working on their golf games as man & wife, and I think that suits them to a Tee. Despite the worrisome photo above.

Will Justin Rose Rise to the Occasion?

The occasion in question of course, is the Open Championship.

It'll be contested next week at Royal Birkdale and that's what makes it so significant for Justin Rose. As some golf fans may remember, exactly ten years ago Mr. Rose had a fairytale week on the fabled course in the north west of England.

He was just 17 that summer, and during the magical week he was embraced by the crowd and made to feel like a champion... the way it happens when a kid unexpectedly breaks into contention for a major.

One of my favorite golf writers, Jason Sobel, tells the post-Open story, of the ups and many downs that followed for Justin, including 21 cuts in row after Royal Birkdale. Now however, Justin Rose is back up there ready to contend again...ready to win.

I took these photographs a couple of weeks ago at the Traveler's Championship. He's an exciting player to watch, and it would be wonderful to see him do well at the course where he made magic a decade ago.

























Photographs © Golf Girl Media

A Natural Aptitude for Golf ... or Not?

Just how important is natural ability when learning to play golf?

I ponder this quite often, because frankly, I know myself, and I know I do not have a lot of natural ability for the game I love so much. I just don't.

Yes, it's hard to admit, especially because I'm constantly being told, "you're so athletic - you should be really good at golf" but athleticism and golf ability do not necessarily go hand in hand.

This is my third season and I'm hoping to break 100. I think that's pretty normal. But I have a couple of friends who've been playing just over a year and already break 100 routinely. They practice and play about half as much as I do. And rarely, if ever, take lessons. So what's that all about?

I think it's about a certain natural aptitude...or lack thereof. They have it - and I don't. So, naturally I hate envy them.

Now, what does this natural ability consist of ? They say golf requires flexibility. I've got that. So much so that If I weren't a marketing executive I'd probably be employed by Cirque du Soliel as a contortionist. Seriously. Flexibility isn't my problem.

Neither is balance. I was a gymnast in school, and the balance beam was my event. Strength and endurance? I run 5Ks and 1/2 marathons, and work out on my Bowflex every other day. Yes, I'm in excellent physical shape. So it's not that at all. It's something much more subtle.

I think it has to do with a combination of inborn senses; like spatial perception and positional sense. These senses allow one accurately and intuitively judge speed and distance, and to feel how hard to hit the ball and know what direction to aim it in. And you see, I'm lacking in those areas, that's why it's so hard for me to parallel park (I don't - ever) ...and why when I toss a crumpled paper towards the trash bin it's likely to end up on the other side of the room. That's just me. And other things like focus, imitativeness and muscle memory...not my fortés either, though I do try to work on them. And my damn friends don't. Not as hard as I do anyway.

I guess what I'm saying is that, with golf, not everyone's created equal, and I'm living that clearly this summer. Not that I'm not enjoying every single round... I am. In fact Nick will always insist that that's way I'm not improving faster, because I'm not agonizing over it enough, but I don't buy that. I am having fun, but I'm also applying myself on the course, at the range and on the putting green. I'm just a little...slower...than some others. So be it.

I would love to hear what other golfers of all levels think on this. How important is natural aptitude in golf?

The Natalie Gulbis Essay Contest

In just a couple of weeks the girls of the LPGA will be heading to France for the Evian Masters.

The defending champion, is Natalie Gulbis and if she's successful it'll be her first win since...well...her first win, in Evian last year. Now, I don't know about you, but Natalie Gulbis is one of my favorite golfers, and I'd love to see her get beyond her current one hit wonder status... so I'm really hoping she's successful in defending that Masters.

By the way, did you know could you could spend a day with Natalie Gulbis? Yes a full day. From working out with her in the morning, to playing a round of golf, to dinner in the evening.

Not so fast though, you've got to write an essay. Yes, the kind of essay you used to write in school, and the topic is "Who's behind your success". In Natalie's case, it's her Dad. You know him, right? He's very much a part of Natalie's life, and though some find him... annoying... there's no denying his dedication to his daughter. You can read Natalie's essay about him at the site. OK, so your essay should be no longer than 200 words and ...well I think it'll be quite easy...sort of.

The contest is sponsored by RSM McGladrey and in addition to the day with Natalie prize they're giving away Skycaddies and golf equipment.

Well, I'm sure this contest is going to be very popular and the essays will surely yield some very inspiring stories. I also know I would love to spend a day with Natalie...so let me get writing.

Playing Golf and Feeling Groovy

"First and foremost, golf should be fun" I know... that's a subversive statement to some curmudgeons golf purists, but it's the way I look at it. And, unless you're a professional or an aspiring professional ...or unless you're somehow obligated to play golf against your will, I think it's a pretty good way of looking at the game.

And as everyone knows (or should know) part of having fun with golf is dressing up in crazy, cute, retro, wild, and/or stylish golf clothes. It doesn't have to be a whole outrageous outfit either. One distinctive accessory or article of clothing will often do the trick. Rocco Mediate knew this when he buckled his belt with a peace symbol in the X round of the US Open. So did awesome Anthony Kim while winning Tiger's tournament over the weeknd. His buckle was decidedly more pimped out blinged up diamond encrusted than Rocco's.

Anyway, I went the retro Rocco way yesterday and wore this groovy peace symbol pendant from The Bellevue Beadery. Combined with a fun bucket hat and Pulitzer-esqe plaids, the whole outfit made me feel happy. It brought me a bit of luck too. In the form of two birdies and my lowest score to date.

OK, so the low score was a 108, but hey, I'm still trying to break 100 here folks. The important thing is ...I had fun. And I can't wait to get back out there...in a really cute outfit.


Photographs © Golf Girl Media

Golf for Women to Close - Current Issue will be the Last

It was announced a couple of hours ago.

The current issue of Golf for Women magazine...the delightful, fashion-filled style issue...will be the last to hit the stands,

It's a big loss for all those of us who loved perusing the shiny pages of this uniquely female-friendly golf magazine. Golf for Women had a loyal readership and will be sorely missed by those who have looked forward to it's bimonthly arrival for the past 20 years.

As many readers of this blog know it can be a real challenge to find golf stories, news, tips and profiles written with women in mind, and now it seems, we'll need to be all the more resourceful.

Golf for Women editor Susan Reed, has been appointed editor-in-chief of Oprah's magazine O. She's an amazing editor and an extraordinary journalist...and I'm hoping she'll bring a bit of golf to Oprah's world.

Playing Golf vs Blogging About It

My intentions were good. This morning I had several provocative and engaging golf stories ready for a final edit, I also had plans to work on the long awaited Golf Girl's Diary site upgrade.

Then one of Nick's playing playing partners canceled. And I was delighted obliged to step in as a substitute. So that's what I did ... and did quite well, I might add. I'm sending this from the computer at the clubhouse, where we're having a drink or two.

I felt guilty for not working...for about 18 seconds... but ultimately reasoned that, even after a three day weekend, golf must take priority over work. So I'm going to work later... tonight...when I get home. Talk to you then.

Venus & Serena - OK, Today I Care About Tennis

I grew up playing tennis and still play once a week. I even flirted with the idea of starting a tennis blog a couple of years ago. Then, when I sat down to write my first post I realized... I just wasn't that into it. For me, tennis just never felt blogworthy.

Except today, Because today the extraordinary Venus and Serena Williams played ...against each other... in an amazing Wimbledon final. The sisters played with such passion and intensity that it was at times wrenching to watch. When Venus ultimately won, you could tell she felt her sister's defeat every bit as much as her own victory, while Serena ...was unable to hide her disappointment... and she wore her regret like one of her awesome tennis outfits. The girls are so dynamic, their bond so palpable... and the tennis was as emotional and as as tennis gets. Oh, and by the way, shortly after that match...the girls got together and won their third women's doubles title.

Well, I'm going back to golf blogging now, but the Venus / Serena Wimbledon final will surely be the most memorable sporting event of this weekend. For me at least... and I'm totally not into tennis.

Happy 4th of July ... to Golfers and Others

Though she's best known for pink on pink, no one does patriotic like Paula Creamer. And who better to present Independance Day greetings than the top ranked US golf girl.

Whether you're on the course or at a family cookout or just chilling out at home... enjoy a safe, happy, fun (and fireworks) filled holiday!

Golf and Gender - The Debate Heats Up in Phoenix

Things are heating up in the "Valley of the Sun", at the venerable Phoenix Country Club to be exact... and this has nothing to do with the desert city's torrid temperatures.

What's boiling over right now is a debate over sex segregation in the country club's dining rooms.

This scenario probably sounds familiar because over the past several years it's been an issue at many private golf and country clubs across the country and around the world: The Men Only area, and what to do about it.

Sometimes it's just a room, sometimes an actual restaurant or grill, but it's always a bastion for the boys, where girls are not allowed. The fact is, many clubs have them and, as private clubs, they've always been allowed to have them. Every now and then you'd read about a protest or a petition... or even a law suit being filed... in response to a segregation situation, but in the end these efforts often seemed to fizzle on the basis that private clubs are not in theory subject to antidiscrimination laws.

In Phoenix however, the plaintiffs and their supporters are pressing on, in the face of substantial sophomoric harassment. They want the Men's Grill (a well appointed bar and dining area overlooking the course) to be open to everyone, making the Womens Grill (a dingy, illappointed afterthought of a room) unnecessary.

Their efforts seem to be paying off too. A legal opinion was issued earlier this week, by the Attorney General's Civil Rights Division which determined that the country club had far too many events open to non-members to be considered a private club and therefore was subject to the state's anti-discrimination laws.

It's not over yet though, because the opinion is non-binding and club officials say they have no intention of changing the policy. They have initiated efforts to upgrade the Women's Grill to the standard of the Men's facility, but not to open the Men's Grill to women. The problem is compounded by the fact that though there is a nonsegregated restaurant at the club, it's not open at all times and the Men's Grill with it's wide screen televisions and pleasant appointments is where everyone wants to be after a round at PCC. It's where the bonding and business deals take place. So...where does that leave the business woman, or lawyer or physician when she's playing golf with a group of male colleagues? Not in a very good place I would imagine.

Sex segregation in the Grills might be a tradition that some curmudgeons at the 100 year old Phoenix Country Club would like to uphold, but it's just not practical in an economic climate that has such clubs looking for new revenue streams and allowing groups with little or no connection to country club members to host events on site. Those in charge of the balance sheets at PCC must wish the traditionalists would shut up and go with sexually integrated flow.

But for now it seems a judge may have to come in and have the final word. We'll be following this with interest.

Golf Fashion that's Styled to a Tee

I love golf fashion as much almost as much as I love golf itself.

While fashion is often not highly functional, when it comes to golfware, non-functional simply isn't an option. There's a unique challenge in creating an outfit, or an item of clothing, that looks good, and works well, on the course. And that's what I love; it's the unique combination of elements that make golf apparel so distinctive and interesting and fun.

So, you can only imagine how pleased I was to see an uber-elegant new blog dedicated to golf fashion. It's called Styled to a Tee and as you'll quickly notice, it's quite unlike anything else out there. This blog has a sophisticated spare look, perfectly set up for pleasant perusing, and the writing is delightfully literary. For example, a post on In-bee Park's winning white-on-white US Open look was poetry. Literally. Very clever.

There are also some fascinating video interviews, with the likes of designer John Ashworth, golfer Stacy Prammanasudh and others. It's definitely a very special blog, one written by fashion insiders with a passion for golf. You can be sure I'll be reading Styled to a Tee regularly.