Page 352 – African American Golfer's Digest

Heard & Scene News

The Players Championship 2020 in Pictures

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Photos by John Perry

HV3 sinking par-saving putt on number 18, his ninth hole for the day, for a +1 at the turn.

Cameron Champ on number 11, where he made birdie to go to -3. During 1st round play at The Player's.

Cameron Champ on number 11, where he made birdie to go to -2. During 1st round play at The Players.

Cameron Champ goes to -2 thru 11 holes.

Cameron Champ in route to the 12th tee, at TPC Sawgrass, during Thursday’s opening round.

Cameron Champ en route to the 12th tee, at TPC Sawgrass, during Thursday’s opening round.

Varner coming off the 18th green

Christiaan and his caddie Zack ipon finishing on Number 10.

Christiaan and his caddie Zack upon finishing on Number 10.

Round one at “The Player’s ” found Hideki Matsuyama on top the leaderboard at -9, with Harris English and Christiaan Bezuidenhout tied for second place at -7’s. Three tied at -5 and in a gridlock of players at -4.

Pete McDaniel and John Perry hard at work at The Players Championship media center.

The Players Championship Leaderboard as of 1:35pm on Thursday’s opening round.

L-R Longtime friends Rudy Taylor, Ron Jones, Doug Wiseman, & Reggie Shell take in the action at "Drama Central", on the 17th hole at Sawgrasss during round one of The Player's.

L-R Longtime friends Rudy Taylor, Ron Jones, Doug Wiseman and Reggie Shell take in the action at “Drama Central” on the 17th hole at Sawgrass during Round 1 of The Players Championship.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

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PGA TOUR Statement by Commissioner Jay Monahan, as Coronavirus wreaks havoc on golf and all sports

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Media Center at The Players Championship (photo by Pete McDaniel)

Pete McDaniel-circle

By Pete McDaniel

Freelance Writer

(March 12, 2020) Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl. – First the NBA; then the NCAA; now the PGA Tour. The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on sporting event schedules across the spectrum.

On Thursday during the first round of The Players Championship, Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan announced that fans will not be allowed to attend events for at least the next three-and-a-half weeks, beginning with Friday’s round.

“Let me preface my remarks by reinforcing that the health and safety of our players, employees, partners, volunteers, fans and everybody associated with the PGA Tour is our top priority,’’ Monahan said. “I’ve spoken to President Trump this morning, and I spoke to (Fla.) Governor Ron DeSantis a few hours ago as well…To the White House and the Governor’s office have been supportive of the precautionary measures we have taken to this point.

“With that as pretext, at this point and time, PGA Tour events—across all Tours—will currently proceed as scheduled, but will do so without fans. This policy starts with The Players Championship tomorrow and continues through the Valero Texas Open.’’

The announcement came as fans were streaming into the TPC’s Stadium Course awash with bright sunshine and warm temperatures. Players took advantage of soft conditions and a near-windless day with a number of low scores during the early going, including Cameron Champ, who carded eight birdies en route to a four-under-par 68, five shots behind leader Hideki Matsuyama.

Champ’s fine round included several near-misses, a four-putt double bogey at the par-3 eighth hole and another double bogey at the intimidating par-4 18^th hole. Meanwhile, Matsuyama had eight birdies and an eagle with a lone bogey at the par-5 16^th hole.

The lion share of fans were anxiously anticipating the 1:51 tee time of the marquee pairing of World No. 1 Rory McIlroy, No. 2 Jon Rahm and No. 3 Brooks Koepka.

PGA TOUR / THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP LEADERBOARD
Date: Mar 12–15, 2020
Course: Players Stadium Course
Purse: $15,000,000

PGA TOUR Statement by Commissioner Jay Monahan

March 12, 2020

Let me preface my remarks by reinforcing that the health and safety of our players, employees, partners, volunteers, fans and everybody associated with the PGA TOUR is our top priority.

I’ve spoken to President Trump this morning, and I spoke to Governor Ron DeSantis a few hours ago as well. Our team is in constant communication with local health authorities in each market in which our tournaments are played, and we are tracking and monitoring the health information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization in addition to the travel advisories provided by the U.S. State Department. Both the White House and the Governor’s office have been and are supportive of the precautionary measures we have taken to this point.

It goes without saying that this is an incredibly fluid and dynamic situation. We have been and are committed to being responsible, thoughtful and transparent with our decision process.

With that as pretext, at this point in time, PGA TOUR events – across all Tours – will currently proceed as scheduled, but will do so without fans. This policy starts at THE PLAYERS Championship tomorrow (Friday) and continues through the Valero Texas Open. It’s important to note, that could change, but for the time being, this decision allows the PGA TOUR, our fans and constituents to plan, prepare and respond as events develop.

Further, the recently announced travel advisories and potential logistical issues associated with players and staff traveling internationally limit our ability to successfully stage the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship. Therefore, we are going to postpone that event and will provide details in the coming weeks on a reschedule as this situation develops.

We will continue THE PLAYERS with essential personnel only, and we will be in direct conversations with those groups (vendors, broadcasters, media, player support groups, essential volunteers) to provide instructions.

This is a difficult situation, one with consequences that impact our players, fans and the communities in which we play. As I said earlier this week, we’ve had a team in place that has been carefully monitoring and assessing the situation and its implications for several weeks. We’ve weighed all the options, and I appreciate the input and collaboration across the TOUR, our industry, our partners and our members that got us to this point. We’ll continue with that collaboration, and I want to thank our fans for supporting the PGA TOUR.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

Jewelry

Ann Liguori’s Hamptons Rope & Golf Collection by Dune Jewelry

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

March 12, 2020 —Dune Golf Collection (dunejewelry.com/collections/golf-jewelry-accessories) has collaborated with Ann Liguori to features ball markers, divot repair tools, cufflinks, key chain and wine stoppers. Every design is handmade to order in the USA and most can be engraved with a meaningful message. Gift wrapping options also available.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

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World Golf Hall of Fame to Induct Tiger Woods in Class of 2021

by Debert Cook March 11, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Additional Inductees to be announced in the coming days

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (March 11, 2020) – The World Golf Hall of Fame will enshrine 82-time PGA TOUR winner Tiger Woods as part of its Class of 2021. Woods received the news of his impending Induction in the Male Competitor category via phone today from PGA TOUR Commissioner and World Golf Foundation Board Chairman Jay Monahan.

“I am both honored and humbled to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame,” said Woods. “This past year has been such an incredible journey and the support I’ve received from my family, friends and fans has been overwhelming. This achievement is the ultimate recognition to never give up and keep chasing.”

A winner of 93 worldwide events including a record-tying 82 on the PGA TOUR, Woods is a 15-time Major Champion and a three-time winner of the career Grand Slam. Woods completed the “Tiger Slam” in 2000-01 when he became the first golfer since Bobby Jones to hold all four major championship titles at the same time.

“Tiger has done more for the game of golf than anyone ever thought possible, and his historic feats on the course are only one aspect of his impact,” said Monahan. “His imprint on the game is immeasurable, and his unparalleled legacy is one we look forward to celebrating as he’s inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame next year.”

A two-time champion of THE PLAYERS and the first two-time winner of the FedExCup, Woods has competed on eight Ryder Cup and nine Presidents Cup teams which includes when he served as a playing captain of the victorious U.S. Presidents Cup Team in 2019. He is an 11-time PGA TOUR Player of the Year winner and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019 following his fifth career victory at the Masters.

“The World Golf Hall of Fame is honored to recognize the incredible career of Tiger Woods,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of the World Golf Foundation. “His impact on the game of golf and everyone associated with it will have a lasting effect on generations to come.”

The Class of 2021 is elected by the Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee, which discussed the merits of 10 finalists. The Selection Committee is a 20-member panel co-chaired by Hall of Fame Members Beth Daniel, Nick Price, Annika Sorenstam and Curtis Strange, and includes media representatives and leaders of the major golf organizations.

The finalists were nominated by the Hall of Fame’s Nominating Committee, which vetted every candidate that met the qualifications of the Hall of Fame’s three Induction categories.

Class of 2021 Selection Committee

Hall of Fame Co-Chairs
Beth Daniel
Nick Price
Annika Sorenstam
Curtis Strange

Institutional Seats
World Golf Foundation Board Organizations
Mike Davis, USGA
Will Jones, The Masters
Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR
Keith Pelley, European Tour
Martin Slumbers, The R&A
Seth Waugh, PGA of America
Mike Whan, LPGA

Media
Selected by World Golf Foundation Board
Michael Bamberger, Golf.com
Iain Carter, BBC
Jaime Diaz, Golf Channel
Doug Ferguson, Associated Press
John Hopkins, Global Golf Post UK
Beth Ann Nichols, Golfweek
Ron Sirak, Global Golf Post

At-Large Seats
Selected by World Golf Foundation Board
Peter Bevacqua, NBC Sports Group
Jerry Tarde, Golf Digest/Discovery

***
About World Golf Hall of Fame
The World Golf Hall of Fame celebrates golf and honors the legacies of those who have made it great. The Hall of Fame opened in Pinehurst, N.C. in 1974 where a total of 71 members were inducted before moving to its current location in St. Augustine, Florida in 1998. The World Golf Hall of Fame currently recognizes 160 Members. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution and is allied with 26 national and international golf organizations, including the European Tour, LPGA, the Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, The R&A and USGA. To learn more about the World Golf Hall of Fame or to lend support, visit

www.worldgolfhalloffame.org.

March 11, 2020 0 comment

Bookshelf

One Man’s Opinion: Together We Can Do This – Book Review

by Debert Cook March 10, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Reviewed by Otis Windham

Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr. is a well known and a respected icon of the Birmingham (Ala.) community. He has lived through and participated in many of the defining moments in Birmingham and American history. He is a successful businessman and a pillar of his Alabama community. In his ninety-fifth season, he has recently published his third book.

This author recently had the opportunity to review this book and pose questions regarding this latest work: “One Mans Opinion Together We Can Do This.”

Dr. Lewis is a no-nonsense, cut to the chase, type individual. His ability to assess a problem and formulate creative solutions demonstrates the depth of his innate strength and talent.
His tribute to his wife Helen and his family shows his appreciation for those who have ushered him to success in his life journey.

“One Man’s Opinion Together We Can Do This” is a very clear picture of Jesse L. Lewis, the man. He is dedicated to spreading his message of the power of the vote, education, and business ownership as keys to winning the new struggle Blacks now face in America.

He has posed specific challenges and has proposed innovative solutions to improve the fortunes of future generations. For example, Starting our children’s education at the age of three instead of the traditional six years would help bridge the learning and achievement gap between Blacks and the population at large.

His legacy is contained in this work. His knowledge, wisdom, experience and his willingness to share this valuable insight and information is to be admired.

He stresses the importance of mentorship to those desiring to start their own business. More Black-owned business in our community benefits us all in many ways.

This book contains a wealth of historical and statistical information that can be used to motivate and inspire those seeking an upward path as business owners and entrepreneurs.

The foreword by esteemed former mayor of New Orleans and current head of the National Urban League, Marc Morial, gives testament to the role Dr. Lewis has played as a champion of economic empowerment and in chronicling the civil rights movement.

There is a moving dedication to his wife, Helen. They were married sixty-two years and she was and still is his inspiration for many of his life accomplishments.

This book is written in a first person narrative, which is a refreshing and ingenious way to tell one’s story. Those who know Dr. Lewis will get the impression they are having a casual conversation with him as they read this book, but the information presented and the subject matter discussed here are dead serious.

He describes his early life in detail. He was raised by his grandmother along with four other cousins who were all boys near his age and he was the eldest. The family was poor and all members of their household had to contribute to ensuring the livelihood of the family. As the eldest, the expectations for him were great. His grandmother instilled values, provided wisdom, discipline, and, most importantly love, to him and his cousins that are still part of who he is today.

Dr. Lewis has led a remarkable life. Lesser men would have probably quit under such dire circumstances. His life is both a testament to the times he has lived through and to the man he was able to become.

He does not skirt around Racism as a long-standing problem in America and the world. The book states that though Whites have much responsibility to make America a level playing field for all, Blacks also now have the power to change the effects of this reality.

“With the power of the ballot, African Americans would be able to transform the misdeeds of bloodthirsty mobs into the good works of productive citizens.” – Dr. Jesse L. Lewis.

Per Dr. Lewis, the complexion of the problem Blacks now face has changed considerably. Education, Voting, and business ownership are the keys to addressing this new problem.
This book is a memoir and with a message. That message is “Together We Can Do This.”

March 10, 2020 0 comment

Auto Review

The Nautilus is Lincoln’s Mid-Size Luxury SUV

by Debert Cook March 10, 2020

written by Debert Cook

The MKX is Renamed and Upgraded

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus received widespread attention from the broadcast commercial featuring Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey. The midsize, five-passenger luxury crossover SUV that was previously named the MKX when it was first introduced in 2007, is now Lincoln’s top-selling vehicle.

The 2019 mid-year redesign and name change from the second-generation Lincoln MKX to Lincoln Nautilus includes many major upgrades, including engines, advanced technology, safety, luxury amenities, and exterior styling. On the outside, the Nautilus design is identified by a large rectangular grille and Lincoln star emblem.

The Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driver-assist features, which was previously an option, is now standard in Nautilus models. Power and performance have also been significantly enhanced with new turbocharged engines that include direct fuel injection and a twin-independent variable camshaft engine.

The two powerplants and suspensions include a turbocharged 4-cylinder or a twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine in front- or all-wheel-drive. The base model 2.0-liter 4-cylinder generates 250 horsepower, while the more powerful 2.7-liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder produces 335 horsepower.

The Nautilus comes in four trim levels: The Standard base model starts around $41,335 MSRP, the Select around $45,540, the Reserve around $49,870, and the top-of-line Black Label edition starts around $57,890 MSRP. I tested the 2019 Black Label Nautilus with an MSRP of $59,390 which topped out at $67,630 with all the bells and whistles included.

The 22-way adjustable seats with lumbar massage in the 2019 Lincoln Black Label Nautilus was very comfortable and relaxing. No worries, however. The advanced safety assist features included in the Lincoln Co-Pilot package made sure I didn’t get too comfortable. I was well protected with active lane assist, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.

The Lincoln Black Label Nautilus SUV is luxurious in and out with features like wireless phone charging, 19-speaker premium sound system, 21-inch wheels, embroidered Venetian leather seats, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, hands-free foot-activated trunk, security approach lights, 360-degree camera, and active park assist.

The Black Label Nautilus also comes with membership privileges at Lincoln dealerships, which includes home and remote pickup and delivery, a 4-year/50,000 premium warranty maintenance plan, free car washes, and memberships in a travel and culinary network.

For more reviews on the latest new cars and trucks, see my blogs at www.decisivemedia.net.

By Randi Payton
Decisive Media Network

March 10, 2020 0 comment

News

Are cannabis and golf a good twosome?

by Debert Cook March 10, 2020

written by Debert Cook

BY AAGD STAFF

The “weed” may be medicinal but what effect will it have for golfers with states passing laws that make it acceptable for “recreational” use? While public appeal rapidly increases for the use of cannabis, lines between what is acceptable on the golf course for players is becoming blurred.

“I’ve played golf with somebody smokin’ a ‘j’. (I didn’t partake, let alone inhale). There’s even a Canadian course, Lombard Glen Golf Course in Ontario, that marketed itself in 2019 as North America’s first “cannabis-themed golf course,” according to a golfer who told that to GolfAdvisor.com.

Now, the latest craze is CBD oil, a cannabinoid that is found in cannabis and hemp. CBD technically is not illegal or intoxicating. The increasing popular oil is making serious inroads in golf as an anti-inflammatory and to ease anxiety. According to several reports, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have ties to the benefits of the oil and have been purportedly seen chewing CBD-infused gum at tournaments.

“Why CBD, for me? I was tired of suffering from the numerous side effects that came with taking over the counter medicines to relieve my back pain, not to mention how harsh they were to my stomach,” said Demetrice Burgess, a partner in business with WaKanna CBD. “Prior to going out to golf, I use my WaKanna CBD topicals, a vegan product with no harsh ingredient. CBD is truly a pain reliever and works well for me and many of my customers.”

At this year’s PGA Merchandise Show & Convention, the Show floor was filled with a variety of CBD brands and representatives who were hoping to inform more golfers of the benefits of their products.

The hot topic of marijuana use is also heating up discussions on the PGA Tour. Last week, at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Matt Every’s first-round score on Thursday was 65. If you recall, Every, who was suspended last year for 12 weeks for violating the PGA Tour’s drug policy, believes the PGA Tour needs to amend its policy on cannabis.

“It bothers me that it’s even an issue out here at all,” he said. “I think it doesn’t do anybody any favors that it’s even on the list for a prohibited substance. You could fail for heroin and marijuana and the penalty is the same. If anyone wants to make the argument that that is performance-enhancing, they have never done it before. I promise it’s not,” said Every to GolfAdvisor.com. Every has won on both the PGA Tour and Nationwide Tour.

Highs and Lows

In an anonymous poll conducted by Golf.com last fall, roughly 60 percent of the 52 players who participated indicated that weed should be legal on Tour. One in five said they had smoked or taken an ingestible form of the drug.

But it’s the PGA Tour’s anti-doping policy and the current guidelines that are followed, as set by the World Anti-Doping Agency, that confusion begins on the issue.

For sure, golfers have a lot of anxiety on the course, both professional and amateur players. Everyone knows the struggle of the PGA Tour surrounding the drug and told GolfAdvisor.com.

“Here’s the other thing that’s weird,” he continued. “The cutoff for THC (in the body) is 150 nanograms. So you could have, you, let’s just – we’ll use me. If I get tested and I have, and I’m at 145, good to go. If I’m at 155, I’m a drug abuser. That’s ridiculous.”

Promotional products tooting the use of marijuana on golf courses, from t-shirts, caps, pipes, shorts, socks and many other items.

So, the battle continues, on-and-off the golf course.

March 10, 2020 0 comment

michael cooper, golf, diversity, minority, john merchant, barbara douglas, pga, lpga, usga

Blog

A Proud Man’s Work Continues

by Debert Cook March 9, 2020

written by Debert Cook

BY MICHAEL COOPER

(March 9, 2020)
As I checked my social media platforms this past Sunday morning, I was stunned and saddened to read Susan Merchant’s post that her father, John, had passed away. John Merchant was an important ambassador and pioneer for diversity and inclusion in golf. He was also my friend and mentor. I could count on him for candid, constructive criticism, or praise when due. He inspired me by sharing stories of his incredible life journey.

Our Facebook family responded to the sudden news of Merchant’s death. There were hundreds of friends sharing fond memories and past pictures with John Merchant. Golf industry leaders responded with some nice tributes too. John received deserved accolades through articles from Golf Digest and Golf Week. The United States Golf Association (USGA) made a nice public statement through an online article, and Debert Cook did her normal great job with the African American Golfer’s Digest. Each article highlighted Merchant’s pioneering approach to diversity and inclusion, dating back to 1992.

John Merchant, golf, diversity, african, american, minority, racism,

Then I awakened on Monday morning, one day later, to a global golf post announcing the major tours signing a new television contract, reportedly in the area of $400 million per year. One week prior to this announcement, another online publication reported gross revenues of $216 million last year for another industry giant; although the article was quick to point out that profits for the fiscal year were much less…perhaps as low as a paltry $70 million.

As I mourn the death of my friend John Merchant, I am perplexed by the strange dichotomy from these announcements. It baffles me that we are still fighting the same diversity and inclusion battles John Merchant championed 28 years ago, while golf industry leaders command (and receive) such abundant amounts of attention and monies.

If current data are correct, then the $84 billion golf industry will get a sudden financial boost byway of these recent financial announcements. That boost, while blacks are less than 3% of golf’s workplace, and overall minorities less than 15%. The percentages are even less for supplier diversity, as there are few contracts awarded to minority vendors.

Golf certainly considers our contributions to the often-used phrase of fan appeal (spectators), not to mention consumers. So, we watch golf and spend hard-earned money, are we asking too much for inclusion as employees and vendors too? Of course not. And a fair question to hold golf leaders accountable, is how much longer will it take for this leveling of the playing field to occur?

The news of John Merchant’s death was emotional for me. It brought back vivid memories of time spent with him and other advocates such as Bill Dickey, Barbara Douglas, and Lew Horne. On Sunday, I shared a post with the four of them pictured. Because of them we can’t stop fighting for our rightful place in the golf industry. Many in our network echoed those sentiments, which has inspired me to intensify diversity and inclusion efforts. We must finish this work for John Merchant, and the other brave pioneers before and after him.

ABOUT MICHAEL COOPER, PH.D.
Dr. Michael W. Cooper is Chair of the We Are Golf Diversity Task Force, the former Director of Diversity for the World Golf Foundation/The First Tee and past Assistant Dean/Campus Director for Springfield College-Tampa Bay campus. Contact him at [email protected].

March 9, 2020 0 comment

Obituaries Slider

John Merchant, a pioneer in golf, dies at 87

by Debert Cook March 8, 2020

written by Debert Cook

BY AAGD STAFF

(March 8, 2020) John F. Merchant, a long-time local lawyer and civil rights activist credited with opening professional golf to African American players, died Thursday, March 5, after a long illness. He was 87.

Merchant, of Newtown, was a prominent figure in local court for more than 50 years where he practiced both criminal and civil law. When he entered a courtroom lawyers would get to their feet to shake his hand and were always met with a pat on the back and his wide, toothful grin.

“This past Thursday my dear Pop left peacefully to play the back nine. My heart is heavy and I will miss him beyond measure ❤️ . Preparations are in the works to celebrate my Dad’s amazing life and details will follow as soon as possible. My family and I thank you for all the warm expressions of love,” said his daughter, Susan Merchant, on Facebook.

“John took my calls and discussed his book, “A Journey Worth Taking,” while mentioning his point of view about diversity in golf, and the lack thereof, with me several times. Each call I had with him gave me more insight into why he continued to pursue his passion for doing all he could to level the playing field,” said African American Golfer’s Digest Publisher, Debert Cook.

“He was a friend, mentor, and champion of our cause. I depended on John Merchant to be forthright and honest. He didn’t hesitate to offer constructive criticism, or heap praise when warranted. John was a master storyteller, too, and he could captivate an audience for hours. I loved John Merchant and will miss him dearly,” said Michael Cooper, former Director of Diversity for the World Golf Foundation/The First Tee and past Assistant Dean/Campus Director for Springfield College-Tampa Bay campus.

“John was the pre-eminent, elder stateman of Black practicing attorneys,” said Bridgeport lawyer Erroll Skyers, according to CTPost.com. “He was the benchmark for many young attorneys, a wonderful gentleman.” Recently retired Bridgeport State’s Attorney John Smriga recalled the cases he and Merchant had together. “John was a true gentleman and gifted negotiator,” Smriga said. “He had the ability to be very persuasive without ever using a harsh word or losing his patience. He will be sorely missed.”

Bridgeport lawyer Edward Gavin called Merchant a trailblazer.

“He was well respected by all in the legal profession,” Gavin said.

Merchant was born in a section of Greenwich known then as Chickahominy whose minority residents including both his parents worked for the wealthy residents in town.

Merchant worked hard in school and was the first Black to graduate from the University of Virginia Law School in 1958. Never forgetting where he came from, he created the Walter N. Ridley Scholarship Fund in 1987 that assists Black students enrolling at Virginia with grants and/or scholarships.

In 1962, Merchant moved to Bridgeport after firms in Greenwich refused to hire him and formed the first black law firm with L. Scott Melville and E. Eugene Spear, both who later became Superior Court judges.

“Mine was a legal career where almost to a person a lawyer’s word was his bond and could be relied upon without qualification,” Merchant later wrote in his biography, “A Journey Worth Taking.”

Merchant learned to play golf while in the Navy but while he played at a number of courses in the area, he was blocked from playing in tournaments because he was Black.

John Merchant (Facebook)

“You couldn’t get a certified handicap to play in any of the sanctioned events because you had to be a part of the men’s association and they wouldn’t let Blacks join the men’s association,” he said in an interview in the Connecticut Post in 2010.

Arnold Palmer Invitational, Photo Insights

by Debert Cook March 5, 2020

written by Debert Cook

BY JOHN PERRY

(March 5, 2020) Onsite reporting from the Arnold Palmer Invitational, a professional PGA Tour golf tournament held annually in Florida is John Perry. The Bay Hill Club and Lodge play host to the magnificent event that is held at their private golf resort, owned by golf legend Arnold Plamer since 1974. Bay Hill is a suburb southwest of Orlando.

wayne birth, caddy, caddie, arnold palmer invitational, minority, golf, diversity, black man, golfer, PGA Tour

Wayne Birch (Troy Merritt’s caddie) on the 13th tee box during Saturday’s round at Arnold Palmer Invitational 2020. Birch is one of only four Black caddies on the PGA Tour.

Torey Broadwater and Shi McCall attend Round 3 at API for the first time. These longtime buddies share a relationship that has staying power— which is refreshing, and rare. Torey is from Eastern Shore, Va. and now lives in Sanford, FL. He graduated with a BS in Finance. from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va. in 1995 and works as a Senior Accountant for Home Builder “Ashton Woods.” He’s been playing golf for about 15-years and has a 12-15 handicap. His favorite golf tournament is the Masters. He attended the 2014 and 2016 Masters. Shi graduated in 1998 with a BA in Business Administration from Southern University in Baton Rouge, La. and works as a Property Manager for “Seacreast Services. More or less, a student of the game, Shi does not play golf, rather, she enjoys the sport in a learning capacity.

Harold Varner tees off on number 7

Christiaan Bezuidenhout’s score after round 1PM at API

Christiaan Bezuidenhout shaking officials hands after finishing his round at Bay Hill on Thursday.

Christiaan shaking official’s hands after finishing his round at Bay Hill on Thursday.

Christiaan’s caddie Zack Rasego

March 5, 2020 0 comment

News

Honda Classic 2020 Brings Awesomeness, Again

by Debert Cook March 4, 2020

written by Debert Cook

BY JAMES BEATTY

MARCH 2, 2020 — During the Honda Classic last week, I was a guest of the Business Development Board (BDB) of Palm Beach County. They are the official public/private economic development organization for Palm Beach County and Enterprise Florida. Founded in 1982, as a not-for-profit corporation, its primary purpose of the BDB is to attract and retain new industry, business investment, high-quality jobs, and workforce development through corporate relocations, expansions, and international trade. During the past five years, the BDB has assisted companies that have created more than 12,822 direct jobs with average salaries greater than $69,062, resulting in more than $777 million in capital investment to Palm Beach County and an economic impact that exceeds $6.87 billion.

So, I attended the Honda as a guest and as a media person. Founded 48 years ago in 1972 as Jackie Gleason’s Inverrary Classic, the Honda Classic is an astonishing tournament. The 2020 event, held March 15-21, broke the 200,000 attendee barrier for the fifth year in a row!

As a guest, I totally enjoyed my time at the 18^thHole Skysuites courtesy of Florida Power and Light Company. Food and beverages were in great supply and demand. I had the pleasure of meeting several of the dignitaries associated with the tournament which was well run, as I have come to expect from all professional tournaments.

As a media person/fan, I was most interested in Harold Varner III and Joseph Bramlett, so Thursday —Cut Day was bittersweet. Harold Varner III made it and Joseph Bramlett didn’t. My enthusiasm waned a bit, as now, I only have 1 person to pull for —Varner, but I am concerned for both as each needs to improve in order to move up the season leaderboard. Ultimately, Varner finishes at T-42 costing himself a few dollars by shooting a 6 over 76 in the third round. He completed the tournament by firing an even-par 70 on Sunday.

Congratulations to the winner Im Sung-jae on his first PGA Tour victory. The full leaderboard may be viewed here: https://thehondaclassic.com/scores/.

Here is a comparison of Harold and Joseph, as I also compared both of them to the current FedEx cup leader, Justin Thomas.

Well, there is still time for both players to get into their respective grooves and put up the numbers that they are capable of doing. I will continue to pull for them and I hope you will too.

March 4, 2020 0 comment

News Slider

Tiger Woods among 10 nominees for World Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2021

by Debert Cook March 4, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Recent World Golf Hall of Fame eligibility changes
put Woods on the fast track for Class of 2021

BY AAGD STAFF

(March 4, 2020) Could Tiger Woods be included in the World Hall of Fame Class of 2021? This is one of the hottest questions surrounding his consideration as one of the 10 finalists announced Tuesday by the WGHOF. After his years of super-superb performance in golf, it is inevitable that Woods would someday receive the induction. However, with this announcement his probability has been ‘fast-tracked,’ as earlier this year the hall changed its election criteria, dropping the age of eligibility from 50 to 45.

Woods has an astounding 82 PGA Tour victories which include 15 major championships. The once World #1 Player will turn 45 on Dec. 30, 2020. Other players who are in the mix for consideration in the category of male competitor were the late Johnny Farrell (22 Tour victories, including one major), Padraig Harrington (18 victories combined in Europe and the U.S., including three majors) and Tom Weiskopf (16 PGA Tour victories, including one major).

Among female competitors selected by the nominating committee, Susie Maxwell Berning (11 LPGA victories, including four majors), the late Beverly Hanson (17 LPGA victories, including three majors), Sandra Palmer (19 LPGA victories, including two majors) and Dottie Pepper (17 LPGA victories, including two majors) were nominated. In the contributor category, former PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem and early 20th-century women’s pioneer Marion Hollins were listed.

The process of induction is rigorous and a nominee must receive 75 percent of the vote from the selection committee to earn a spot in the hall. The 2021 induction ceremony’s date, location and class will be announced in the coming weeks, the hall said in a news release. The World Golf Hall of Fame is located in St. Augustine, Fla.

March 4, 2020 0 comment

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Recent World Golf Hall of Fame eligibility changes put Woods on the fast track for Class of 2021

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Recent World Golf Hall of Fame eligibility changes
put Woods on the fast track for Class of 2021