Monday, September 10 -- The Gopher Invitational, Spring Hill GC (Wayzata)

While I'm waiting for today to start, I thought I would update my blog.  In re-reading my last post of 6 months ago (ugh!), I thought it appropriate to review my comments.

The weather has been terrific, albeit warm (even hot), for golf.  Aside from an occasional suspension due to weather, we have had little to interrupt our season.  The best was the "Chamber of Commerce" weather we experienced at the end of August up at Northland CC during our Senior Championship - and what a place to get it!  (The picture left is of Lake Superior from aside Northland's 13th green.)  Fortunately, the bug problem has not been as bad as it could have been.

From the perspective of the golf business, the weather is just what we needed.  Virtually all courses have been in great shape and seeing a level of activity that hasn't been seen for years.

Looking at the TOUR, Rory has astounded us with his play.  An eight shot victory at Kiawah in the PGA was only the beginning.  He's now won the last two FedEx Cup playoff events (Barclays & Deutsche Bank) and there appears no stopping him.  From an American perspective, it's good he can play in only five matches during the Ryder Cup later this month.

Tiger's resurgence - three victories and in the mix seemingly every time he plays - has brought renewed interest in Golf.  Will he be able to close the deal on the weekend again? Only time will tell.  He should be a force at the Ryder Cup.  My prediction - it will be a Tiger-Rory single match on Sunday at Medinah.

Phil has been somewhat mediocre this year.  It makes one wonder if he is back to full health, although he played well and had a chance to win at the Deutsche Bank.  The US really need him to play well if they hope to reclaim the Ryder Cup.

As for me acquiring that new driver, not just yet.  I hope to get fitted for the right one and get it in my hands before going into winter.  And, I put off transitioning to a longer putter.  That might have been a good idea in light of the much predicted ban of anchoring the putter.  The USGA is supposed to make an announcement shortly.  My solution - practice.  What a novel concept!

Oh, and I managed to cash one check from my tournament play this year!

Until next time-
Doug