Ian Poulter - Finally Dressed for Success ?

As anyone who reads this blog knows, I'm a huge Ian Poulter fan. I have been since I first noticed him last year in a lime green retro look, channeling Bing Crosby at the Masters.

The bodacious Brit is an awesome golfer by any standard, but the thing I've always liked most about him is the way he has fun with it. Dressing it up and playing it down... he always appeared to be enjoying himself while he entertained the audience. But now it seems he may not have been having all that much fun after all.

Over in Dubai, where many of golf's greats are gathering, Ian has been getting gobs of attention. Not for his outrageous outfits, but because he declared that if he played to his full potential, he, and he alone, could beat Tiger. Well, I don't know about you but I'm hoping his "full potential" doesn't preclude the awesome outfits.

Judging from the photo above I don't think I have much to worry about.

Golf Crocs - Be Afraid, be Very Afraid (updated)

They're coming to a course near you. Soon, probably this summer.

A golf blogger friend of mine saw them at the PGA merchandise show earlier this month and broke the news to me in an email. I think he knew I wouldn't be thrilled.

I hate Crocs. I find them ridiculously unattractive and I shudder to think of multicolored masses of them invading the golf courses of America...and the world. Because, though I'm not alone in hating the clownish clogs, they've got plenty of fans too. Ardent fans who have several pairs. I was astounded last summer when my friends came over from France, and couldn't wait to go out and buy Crocs. I thought the French were supposed to be chic and elegant!?! Pierre and Sabine did not look chic in their clunky kicks.

I've got to admit, the official Crocs website is impressive. Over the past couple of years, their product line has expanded exploded; it's gone beyond footwear to include apparel and accessories. The spiked Golf Crocs are not yet featured on crocs.com, but there is an official PGA Tour model. It's one of their "traditional" beach clogs adorned with the PGA logo. The web copy encourages golf fans to "show your PGA Tour pride". Will that pride be on display in the galleries of Augusta this spring? Probably. So much for the "tradition, history, beauty and mystique of the hallowed venue.

Now, you know me, when it comes to golf apparel I'm NOT a dress code dogmatist. Far from it, I tend to like new exciting looks and unconventional styling, on the course and off, but we're talking about something else here. We're talking about the most unattractive, abrasive and absurd look known to man and in my opinion it doesn't belong on a golf course, even the most bedraggled municipal course, the one on the wrong side of town, the one that's seen better days. Even that course deserves better than Crocs.

Ok...this post is becoming a bit of a rant, let me get a hold of myself. I should say that Crocs are acceptable in certain very specific circumstances, those being: health care workers such and nurses and surgeons, because they've always worn clunky, orthopedic type shoes. They're also alright for gardeners, because it's wet and muddy in a garden and no one sees you back there anyway. Finally they're OK on really cute teenage girls, because, as well all know, anything looks good on really cute teenage girls.

The most ironic thing is that the reason most give for embracing this terrifying trend is comfort and personally, I don't find Croc to be exceptionally comfortable. Am I alone in that? No, I think the real reason people wear Crocs is to make a statement. I'm just not quite sure what that statement is and I'd prefer not to see it being made on the golf course. OK?

FYI - Here's a link, sent in by The Artful Golfer that shows the actual Golf Crocs...I still don't like them.

Golf in the Gulf - Eye on Dubai

Tiger's there already ooo. He flew out last night after his awesome win at the Buick Invitational. By now he's probably checking out progress on his fabulous Arabian Gulf golf complex, Tiger Woods Dubai, set to open in the 4th quarter of 2009.

I'm sure he's also eagerly anticipating the start of Dubai Desert Classic week which kicks off tomorrow. Tiger will meet up with a slew of the worlds top players at the lush Emirates Golf Club, including defending champion and Dubai "local", Henrik Stenson, Colin Montgomerie, who also has ties to Dubai and would be rival Ernie Els.

Oh and the 12 strong field will also include the fabulously fashionable Ian Poulter. No doubt about it, the Arabian desert is going to sizzle this week.

The Multitalented, Multilayered Mr. Woods

Ok, we all know he plays a decent game of golf, but it looks like Tiger's pretty much perfected his layering skills as well.

Here's a recap from the Buick Invitational that just wrapped up at windswept and blustery Torrey Pines:

Day 1 - Black on Black

Day 2 - Navy on Multi-Blue on White

Day 3 - Navy on Fuschia on Navy

Day 4 - Black on Red on Black.

Pretty impressive, isn't it?

Oh, and he finished with an 8 stroke win at 19-under 269. I almost forgot that part.

Tiger Woods has a Son ? ? ?

It's totally true.






Adorable Tiger Woods Jr. was born on November 23, in South Africa. His father is Tiger Woods and his mother...the alluring Cathay. And...he's Chinese.


Oh, you didn't think I meant Tiger Woods the golfer did you? If so, I apologize for the the confusion ooo. No, I'm talking about Tiger Woods the three year old Amoy Tiger. He's part of an awesome program, Save China's Tigers, that aims to reintroduce this endangered species to the wild.

So, while Tiger Woods the golfer is burning up the fairways and greens of Torrey Pines and doting over his daugher Sam, Tiger Woods the Tiger is teaching his precious cub to hunt and survive in the wild.











Now, that's an adorable family.

Cricket Girl Seduced by Golf

Her name is Johmari Logtenberg, she's South African and she's only 18.

Only 18 but already a hugh star, in a a sport we know little of on this side of the Atlantic. Johmari is a cricket star. A really remarkable one. She holds a number of records in batting and scoring and runs, and she was being courted by teams from all over the world. Then about a month ago...she retired.

Now she spends her days at the Golf Academy, and, get this, she's already playing off a 12 handicap.

But still, why abandon a sport that you love, and at which you excel? Well, for this young South African champion it seems to have come down to the economics of the two sports...and thoughts of her future. She's admitted that the decision was difficult but that she feared she'd have major regrets if she didn't try golf. In women's cricket earnings are extrememly limited, even for he best players, whereas golf is potentially much more lucrative.

Especially if you're Johmari Logtenberg.

Successerize your Golf Game

No, Golf Girl TV isn't back quite yet. I'm overediting the first episode of 2008 and hope to have it up by next week. But in the meantime check out this First Business News video, featuring a Golf Girl trying to get some help for her fashionably challenged golfer boyfriend. (love her sweater BTW)




First Business Morning News is a half hour syndicated TV news show that airs in most US TV markets as well as internationally. They deal mainly with financial and market news (gulp) but also do some fun features on other ... less volatile ...topics. Watch them on their Brightcove channel. Despite the financial news forum most of the stories are light and entertaining. Oh, except the one on the rising cost of beer. That one's kind of depressing.

These Boots are Made for...Golfing

...and that's just what they'll do. One of these days these boots are gonna golf all over... Connecticut.

Hopefully, that day will be soon. It's FREEzing here in CT! The kind of cold that makes you want to hibernate. But life's too short for hibernation, so we're out at the (heated) driving range a lot. Additionally, each time the temperatures get above freezing and the snow melts, a small group of us take to the fairways of a friend's club where we're allowed to "sortofplay" golf. That means we go from one select hole to another select hole, avoiding those where waterlogged greens will not tolerate winter golfers. We end up playing about half the 18. "Sortofplaying is way better than not playing at all so we welcome it.

That's where these awesome Puma golf boots will really come in handy. I read about them in the Pink Golf Tees Community Blog before Christmas, and was hoping to find them under the tree, but sadly that didn't happen. I guess my jolly old St. Nick was not happy with me at the time. Now however the temperatures have dropped considerably and I have a birthday coming up. So I'm hopeful I will finally get the boots I've been lusting for.

BTW in addition to their blog, Pink Golf Tees has a great on-line store that groups together some of the most stylish golf apparel and accessory brands. Note to Nick: multiple birthday presents are a good thing.

Golf Gossip - Golf Blogger Dating Paula Creamer

The golf gossip mill is abuzz over the relationship developing between Oobgolf golf blogger Andrew Brown and gorgeous LPGA champion Paula Creamer. Seems it started at the PGA merchandise show last weekend and where it'll end up...is anyone guess, but some of the salacious details of their first date are here.

Paula is such a nice girl, we can only hope she doesn't have her heart broken by that notorious Lothario of the Links.

My Advice to Phil Mickelson ...

I have some advice for Phil Mickelson.

Some constructive advice for his golf game, and I may soon be delivering it to him in person.

I know, you're thinking that the idea of me giving Phil Mickelson advice about his game is totally preposterous, absurd, laughable and ridiculous. Well it is, but it could happen.

It could happen because there's another awesome contest taking place soon. It's sponsored by Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and it's actually an audition. An audition for a Crown Plaza Ad campaign with Phil Mickelson.

They're looking for all manner of Phil "fans". To participate in meetings like the ones in last year's "The Place to Meet" campaign, remember? That was the one with George Lopez, Natlie Gulbis, Lee Trevino and others in moderated meetings. Well this time it'll be a meeting of Phil and select "fans". So, despite some issues I've had with Phil Mickelson in the past, I'm now a huge fan. If you are too, you may also wish to audition. Initial info is here. They'll be updating it over the next days.

I won't tell you what my advice is for Phil, but with any luck it'll soon be revealed...to Mr. Mickelson and the world... on National Television.

Samuel L. Jackson - Golf Sweater God

No one wears a golf sweater like Sam Jackson.

There's something about the way he puts together the awesome argyles and extraordinary colored polos that's just so ... delightful.

His style sense and the fact that he's one of the most interesting and provocative and prolific actors around make him my absoulte, unquestionable favorite celebrity golfer... bar none.

The photo above: today at the Bob Hope Classic. Isn't that beautiful? It's probably cashmere too. Below, some other amazing SLJ looks.

The Big Trade Show I'm Missing Again this Year

As you probably know, the ginormous PGA merchandise show is going on right now in Orlando. I had every intention of getting my ...self... down there this week, but my hypertasking life here in CT just wouldn't allow it. I really shouldn't complain though because I'm working on a couple of awesome projects. It's just that there are so many amazing manufacturers I've been wanting to meet for ages. Not to mention the celebs; Annika Sorenstam, Jim Furyk, Paula Creamer, Greg Norman and others will be appearing with their manufacturers.

Now, much as I hate missing all this I don't feel that bad, because a number of astute and observant golf bloggers will be there.

Tony Korologos the golf media guru from Hooked on Golf and The Golf Space will be on site and posting live from the show for three days...he'll also be doing a live radio broadcast. Check out HOG for the latest.

Then there'll be the guys from Oobgolf, Andrew and Kevin. They've already started blogging from Orlando in this post about demo day. Look for some lively live blogging from them over the next couple of days too. I'm sure there are others there as well, and I'm looking forward to discovering...what they're discovering at the show.

So, I think we're covered. And I'm definitely there next year. It's already on my calendar.

UPDATE: Just found out that Courtgolf from WaggleRoom will also be reporting from the show too. Check it out.

Your Chance to Train With A Tiger Coach

How amazing would that be, right?

The coach in question is Hank Haney and I have a feeling he might be able to help me with my swing. So... I just entered this really Fantabulous Gillette Champions sweepstakes ...for which the grand prize happens to be a trip for two to a premier golf destination to train with Hank Haney.

Yes, my swing does need work, so here's to hoping. But the thing is, there are all kinds of other awesome prizes too, and I've got to say, the Gillette Champions site...where you enter the contest... is very cool in and of itself, with lots of exclusive, rather intimate videos, featuring Tiger and the other Gillette Champions, Roger Federer, the Swiss tennis great and French soccer star Thierry Henry. So check it out, enter the contest, and who knows... maybe you'll win the Grand Prize.

Though I'm pretty sure my swing needs more help than yours.

Paula Creamer's Fun Fundraiser

Over the weekend at Lakewood Ranch Golf Club in Bradenton,FL. There was a lot of fun going on... and a lot of fundraising.

It was the second annual Paula 4 Kids Celebrity Golf Event. And from what I read everyone had a blast. Morgan Pressel was there, entertaining the crowd, with her pal Paula. They also had a performance by World Long Drive Champion Gerry James, and lots of games and contests. But the biggest winner was the First Tee of Sarasota/Manatee. The fundraiser was done for their benefit because Paula, who lives in the community, is determined to get them a permanent site to practice and play in the area.

Paula Creamer is a golf girl who gives back to her community. And has fun doing it too.

Tutta Signs With Nike Golf

Isn't that an adorable nickname? Though I've got to admit, to my American ears it sounds more suited to a diminutive puppy dog than a statuesque blond golf beauty.

Tutta is Suzann Petersen, the gorgeous Norwegian LPGA superstar who's now No. 2 in the world. Despite her memorable collapse at Kraft Nabisco, where she lost to Morgan Pressel, she had a stellar 2007, and most feel she has the best chance to present a challenge to World No. 1 Lorena Ochoa this year. And it seems Suzann will be starting 2008 with a swoosh...a Nike swoosh. She just signed a multi-year contract with Nike Golf. Currently her contract covers clubs, balls, bag, footwear and gloves, however rumor has it she'll eventually be wearing the awesome Nike golf apparel.

In any case I'm looking forward to see what Tutta can do in 2008.

The Old Oak, A Golf Memory

Believe it or not, this story begins before the Revolutionary War.

250 years ago an oak tree was born in the rolling hills of Southwestern CT. The seasons came and went. Monumental events shaped the world, and the environment around the growing oak. In 1972 Richter Park Golf Course Opened and the now mature tree became a dominant feature. Presiding over the 14th green, I welcomed its shade in the summer, and admired it's golden foliage through fall, as generations of golfers had since the course opened.

Several days ago the sound of chainsaws broke the silence of the deserted, snow covered winter landscape, and the noble old Oak was reduced to sawdust and dismembered branches. Unbeknown to most of us, the tree had been slowly, silently rotting from within. Falling limbs were becoming a real danger. It was time.

We'll all miss the massive oak tree, but its longtime neighbor, a beautiful red maple will now preside over the 14th green offering us shade and solace round after round.

PGA Publishes the Poulter Playlist

As you probably know, I really like Ian Poulter. He's one of the world's best golfers... but yet he always keeps it light and fun... and colorful. He's appeared in this blog quite a few times as a result.

His over-the-top style sense always amuses an audience, even on a douer golf day... while his top 10 finishes (he had five last year) and his top 25 finishes (he had eight) showcase his extraordianry skill. Then there are his seven International tournament wins. Pretty impressive. I mean, could you do that in pink plaid pants? Well Ian can. What's not to like about that?

The PGA is quite smitten with him too. They recently published his play list. It's the music he listens to before heading onto the golf course, mainly hip hop and R&B, very energizing. As you can imagine, I've just loaded the whole list onto to my ipod, it'll set the mood for my round tomorrow.

Poulter's Playlist

Artist____________Title

1 50 Cent ------------------Candy Shop
2 Kanye West----------------Stronger
3 Timberland----------------Give it to me
4 Kanye West----------------Gold Digger
5 Akon----------------------Smack That
6 Crystal Waters------------Gypsy Woman
7 Gorrillaz-----------------Dare
8 Lovestation feat----------Teardrops
9 Underworld Born-----------Slippy
10 Hardrive------------------Deep Inside

This is my first Poulter story of 2008, and I'm pretty sure it's not going to be my last.

Sexist Hillary Hecklers Inspired by Augusta Protest

No doubt about it, the Clinton campaign is hurting in NH on the eve of that state's primary.

Since her third place finish in Iowa, the gal who not long ago was considered the most likely Democratic candidate for President is now clearly struggling.

Such a dramatic and rapid reversal of fortune has got to be hard to swallow, and though I'm neither a fan nor a supporter of Hillary Clinton, I admire her ability to keep going under such circumstances.

Today during a speech she was making in a NH high school auditorium, Hillary was confronted by a couple of Neanderthals straight out of Augusta National circa 2003. They held signs that read "Iron my shirts"...the same slogan that was used nearly five years ago during Martha Burk's failed protest of the men only policy at Agusta National Golf Club. Martha's neandrethals had "Wash my Dishes" on the other side of their signs. It's unclear wheather Hillary's hecklers went that far. Security dispatched them and Hillary dismissed them by noting that sexism was still alive and well.

I don't think I would have responded so graciously. I would probably have tried to throw a heavy object...like the podium...at them. Because I hate housework, and the only irons I ever want to use are the ones in my golf bag.

GolfRascal and the Caddy Chicks

Sounds...interesting...doesn't it?

The press release presenting this provokative partnership came out of Pebble Beach today, announcing that Golfrascal, LLC has signed a cross marketing partnership with CaddyChicks, the well known purveyor of comely young caddies.

The Golfrascal mission is to,"serve the game of golf and to teach the game in its simplest form to those eager to learn, whether 9 years old or 90"...and the Caddychicks mission states that they're "providing an opportunity for women to learn more about the game of golf through the eyes of a caddy...and...providing training and support so that they may learn the game as it is meant to be played.

I see a derfinite commonality of interests here, don't you? Golfrascal Pro, Mauritz Leen, a South African, will even be providing on-line training for the Caddy Chicks based on his successful ABC teaching method.

The marketing materials for both companies earnestly emphasize promoting golf for women and fostering professionalism and entrepreneurship. However, some critics point to the racy videos and abundance of ultra-seductive swimsuit photos combined with the uniform youth and sexy attractivness of the caddies, as evidence that the true point of the business is...something else entirely.

I'd like to know your opinion. Have a look at the GolfRascal site...and the CaddyChicks one...check out the Caddy of the Month videos... and tell me what you think.

The Meaning of Vijay

Victory. That's what it means in Hindi.

And that's what I'm hoping for for Vijay Singh as he defends his title in the Mercedes-Benz Championship, which gets under way in Kapalua, Hawaii today.

He's got a new swing... Revamped is the term I've heard to describe the changes, though I doubt it's one Vijay himself would use. He's a man of few words and his words are rarely contrived.

Others have said that he's been working hard to improve his fitness. Which I found odd because I wouldn't have thought improvement was possible for this man who's always been known to train harder than anyone else...by ten.

I'm a huge fan of Vijay Singh. I find him fascinating on so many levels, from his unique origins and tumultuous trajectory through the world of professional golf, to that singular dedication that has made him one of the very best, and the youngest living person ever elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame. Soon though he'll turn 45 and that lends a certain urgency to the prospect of a winning year.

Golf Digest once wrote of Vijay Singh as "pro-golf's bad guy". Others have called him a "sexist oaf" and "Vijay the Villian". Vijay is definitely controversial, and I've got to admit that only adds to my fascination.

Golf Girl TV - 2008 Will be Awesome

Hold on to your hybrids everyone! Golf Girl TV is revving up for an ultra exciting 2008 season. We're putting the finishing touches on a new studio, and we've got some stellar stories lined up. The first episode of 2008 will air next week and we'll be biweekly after that.

Additionally, 2008...early 2008...will see the debut of Golf Girl TV live! The first ever live interactive golf talk show! We'll be discussing controversial and provocative issues surrounding our sport... as well as the lighter side... and you'll be able to get right in there and participate! I'll keep you posted on a schedule, but I expect the first show to air before the end of this month.

So, lots to look forward to. I think 2008 is going to be a very interesting year, don't you?