News

Maurice Allen Goes All In At Volvic Long Drivers European Tour

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Maurice AllenName: MAURICE ALLEN

Country: USA

Age: 33

Best Hit: 453y (RE/MAX WLDC Mesquite 2013  )

LDET Member: 024

 

BEST RESULTS:
– Heart Land Classic LD 2011: 2nd
– Fall City Classic LD 2011: 3rd
– Shanks Shootout Long Drive: 4th
– World Guinness Record 2012: Fastes Golf Drive: 339.56 km/h
– Rockwell Long Drive Championship 2012: 2nd
– Spanish LDET Championship 2013: 4th
– France LDET Championship 2014: 3rd

BEST RESULTS 2015
– Sweden LDET Championship: CHAMPION
– Estonia LDET Championship: 2nd
– Slovenia LDET Championship: 2nd
– Belgium LDET Championship: CHAMPION
– Holland LDET Championship: 4
 
 

Maurice Allen season expectations:

What do you expect for the 2014 season?

“My expectations for the 2014 LDET season are very simple. I will have the opportunity to compete against some of the best hitters in the world in some very amazing places. So I expect to become better as a hitter and help grow the sport of long drive. This is a great opportunity to see my old friends and meet some new ones.I’m very excited about this opportunity.”

It´s the LDET title also one of your season goals?

I think that a title is a goal for anyone that is a true competitor. Yes my first goal is to win a LDET event then my next goal would be to win the LDET 2014 title. This goal will not be an easy goal because the competition in Europe is very tough but I’m looking forward to the challenge. 2014 is going to be an amazing season for the sport of long drive

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Golfer Of The WeekGolfer of the Week FeaturedNews

Julius Thaxter Arterberry—Unstoppable Passion

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Julius Thaxter Arterberry is pleased to call Sacramento, California his home.  “It is Sacramento’s great weather, its social environment, and the great job our Mayor Kevin Johnson is doing to grow our city,” says the 27-year old Arterberry. The city’s downtown has been revitalized and a new arena is in the works for the Sacramento Kings (NBA team).

10286938_10154115444230635_521123288969037010_oWith plenty of great friends and relationships, Arterberry maintains a balanced lifestyle that centers on his love of golf.  “My father, Thaxter Arterberry, along with two close family friends: Dr. Ronald T.  Blanchette and Dr. Nathan Allen, introduced me and my brother to the game.  I was just seven years old at the time, my brother Sterling was five.”

The impact that exposure had on him still rings true this day.

Arterberry is absorbed by the sport and, has become an excellent player, too.  As an active member of the Valley Hi- Country Club (since 2012) and the Sacramento Area Black Golf Club (since 2004) he carries a handicap of +2.

The devoted single father believes in the goodness of the game and purchased a set of plastic golf clubs for his son Sebastian when he was only three-years old (now five). “He and I swing around the house….My goal was to introduce him to golf formally at age 5,” the doting dad proclaims.

Until then, Arterberry will continue playing with his adult buddies.  However, he admits to enjoying playing golf alone, saying: “It’s important for me to stay focused.”  He also relishes playing with his buddy Willie Toney, an African American golf pro at the world renowned San Francisco Olympic Club. Additionally, he finds time to share rounds with several of his other great golfing friends: Ron Blanchett (Del Paso Country Club), Rick Jennings (Sacramento City Councilmember), childhood friend—and college golf teammate, Christian; and, of course, the President of the Sacramento Area Black Golf Club, Ed Gill.

1044262_10152931233820635_1154632588_nTrue, he’s a very busy man—holding down roles as a student and assistant golf coach, who trains, golfs and works out regularly.  Yet, he does a good job staying on top of it all.

As Assistant Varsity Golf Coach at Kennedy High School (Sacramento) he has a heart-felt passion for training the youth.  Then, over at Step One Real Estate, as Assistant to the owner (his father) he switches gears, puts on his “management cap” and makes sure the business of the day gets done.   Other occupations for the tall, 6′ 2″ handsome gentleman include working as a Brand Ambassador and promotional model.

 

Arterberry gets in at least 5 rounds per week.  “Honestly, I’m a natural for the game of golf.  It fits my style, my personality and character.  I play the game intelligently and with passion. This is exactly how I live my daily life.”  A true athlete, Arterberry can run the 100 yard dash in under 11 seconds, play basketball above-the-rim, swim like a fish, and is an excellent soccer player and can bowl.

Arterberry has matched success in golf with his ambition, winning the CCC Armature tournament at Boundary Oaks Golf Course.  He was also a member of the Jackson State golf team, in 2010, winning its Southwest Athletic Conference (SWAC).

There is a long, robust list of notable profession golf instructors who have helped Arterberry along his path of success: Dave Pelz (PGA pro and short game specialist), Willie Toney (Olympic Club), Clyde Daniels (African American, former PGA senior pro), Eddie Payton (former PGA professional) and golf coach at Jackson State along with his brother, NFL hall of famer Walter Payton, Don Levine (PGA professional, coach and father of PGA pro Spencer Levin), Steve Edingburgh, Mike Smith, Willie Simmons and John Langston.

1908358_10154230003895635_8584621998984768944_n
Above: Arterberry at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina at the 2014 U.S. Open Golf Championship holding  the trophy that players would battle for.

“Lessons with these individuals it what has helped me embrace the mental aspect of golf.  My instructors help me gain the confidence that is required to compete at a professional level, which I am ready to pursue.”

 

When it comes to challenges, Atlerberry admits that, “…not allowing my emotions to get the best of me while playing competitive golf; Learning to leave the last “golf shot” (good or bad) behind me – and not carrying my last score with me to the next hole.”

 

“I am motivated to keep playing by knowing that I have the full support of my family, friends and community….This has been inspirational and it continues to keep me playing golf at a high level.”  With his mother battling cervical cancer since 2010, Atlerberry sees the situation as a constant reminder of perseverance,  motivation and determination.  “Her positive spirit while battling this disease is inspirational, and infectious, to our family members— and all who come in contact with her infectious smile.”

11351147_10155716718530635_3685500215924483565_nNothing seems to be able to stoop Arterberry whose quest is to become the number one golfer in the world.  In fact, goal-setting keeps him from feeling adrift.

“Engraved on my bedroom wall (since 2008) are the following goals:
#1: Get my Associates of Arts Degree – DONE.
#2: Get my Bachelor of Arts Degree – DONE.
#3: Get my MBA – In progress.
#4: Become the number one golfer on the PGA tour – “Obtainable.”

“Being African American in the world of golf is lonely at times yet rewarding.  Knowing that I can compete against, and beat, some of the best golfers in the game is personally rewarding, and well worth the many hours of practice. …And yes, Tiger Woods is my on-line/television mentor (who I have yet to meet personally).”

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Rogers park, Golf, Diversity, minority, black, segregation, diversity, minority, racism, black, african, american
News

Rogers Park Golf Course Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

TAMPA, Fla. – July 23, 2015 – The State of Florida has recognized Rogers Park Golf Course by listing it on the National Register of Historic Places. This milestone was recognized at a presentation during the regular board meeting of the Tampa Sports Authority on July 27th, 2015.


 Rogers'ResidenceTampa1930's

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archaeological resources.

10509

(Above) G.D. Rogers at his desk

Rogers Park Golf Course, built in 1952, has evolved as one of Tampa, Florida’s best-kept secrets. The beautiful 18-hole golf facility is steeped in history and rich in heritage. During the days of segregation, Rogers Park was the only picnic area for the African American community in Tampa. The park took the name of its contributor, G.D. Rogers. Mayor Curtis Hixon gave permission to a group of local golfers to build a 9-hole golf course. The first Head Golf Professional, Willie Black, directed his group of volunteers, and with meticulous care, all of the tree removal and shaping was done by hand. Upon its completion in 1952, the Rogers Park Golf Club was born.

“My family, our Black community and community at large really appreciate this acknowledgement.  Our goal is to preserve the history and legacy of Roger Park for everyone to learn about a enjoy,” said James Ransom the Grandson of the late G.D. Rogers, Sr., and Minnie L. Rogers, and Spokesperson for the “Citizens Who Support Keeping Rogers Park Public.  Ransom is also a Board Member for the Tampa Organization of Black Affairs.

In 1976, the City of Tampa gave management rights to the newly formed Tampa Sports Authority, and a $400,000 renovation project began.  In 2000, the Tampa Sports Authority decided that a $4 million renovation was needed. An array of other landscaping and reshaping of holes was added to enhance the character of Rogers Park Golf Course, and in 2001, a new maintenance compound was completed and followed by a new clubhouse in 2002.

THE LONG JOURNEY TO PRESERVATION

On Friday, August 22, 2014 the City of Tampa (COT), Historic Preservation Commission voted again in favor of recommending Rogers Park Golf Course to the Florida National Register Review Board for National (Historic Preservation) Registration.  The State of Florida Division of Historical Resources convened a meeting on Thursday, September 4, 2014 at 1:00PM to review and a favorably vote was hoped for on the Roger Park Golf Course nomination.

PBSCOO.3ARansom attended the COT Historic Preservation Commission meeting and he attended the State of Florida meeting in Tallahassee speaking in support of the nomination.

(Photo left)  James Ransom the Grandson of the late G.D. Rogers, Sr., and Minnie L. Rogers.

Ransom said, “It’s with great pride and respect that our community wants to preserve part of our contribution to Tampa’s history and honor my grandfather, C. Blythe Andrews, Sr. and Jr., Dr. W.W. Andrews, Kay Wells Andrews and C. Blythe Andrews, III and Families; the Moses White and Alton White Families; the Perry Harvey, Sr. and Jr. Families; the golfers led by Mr. Willie Black and their Families; Rufus Lewis, Curtis Green and other local golfers and organizations such as the ‘Citizen’s Who Support Keeping Rogers Park Public’, Tampa Organization of Black Affairs, Tampa-Hillsborough Branch of the NAACP and all other supporters unmentioned who have worked diligently to protect this hallowed ground.”

Ransom also expressed gratitude for the support of the Mayor, City of Tampa City (COT) Council Members, the Tampa Sports Authority Board and the COT Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and staff, Congresswoman Kathy Caster, State Senator Arthenia Joyner, State Representative Betty Reed, County Commissioner Les Miller, City Council Member Frank Reddick and many others for their letters of support.

Photo_1

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 Photo_33

 

“We would like to especially thank Dennis Fernandez, Historic Preservation & Urban Design Manager, for his professionalism, diligence, dedication and commitment to shepherd the process along to help us preserve the history and legacy of Rogers Park Golf Course as part of the fabric of history of the City, County, State and Nation,” Ransom said.  “There are too many others unnamed today who lived through that era and know the story of Roger Park when part of it was transformed from a public park to a 9-hole golf course.”

EXPANSION OF ROGERS PARK

Later, the 9-hole Rogers Park course was expanded to be an 18-hole, Par 72 PGA styled golf course.  Rogers Park, nearly surrounded by the Hillsborough River, is historic for many reasons including its cultural significance and must be remembered as one of the few places that African Americans could go for recreation, picnics and enjoyment with families and friends, legally and safely, during a time of overt segregation and racism, in Tampa and the nation.  Rogers Park must be remembered as a place where African American men who worked as caddies at the Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club but could not play golf  there, cleared the land at Rogers Park and hand shaped one of the most challenging and beautiful public golf courses where they could play the game they loved.

African American men and women have visited Tampa from all over the country to play golf at Rogers Park.  Golf greats the likes of Charlie Sifford, Lee Elder, Jim Thorpe, Charlie Owens and other legends played there.  The Rogers Park Golf Course historic preservation effort continued to move forward, there were a lot people and organizations that contributed to the initiative.  Ransom was steadfast in his public appeal and admonished the community that the time had come again for them to take action by supporting the historic preservation of the Rogers Park Golf Course.  His efforts headed-up a letter writing campaign of support that was sent to the Florida National Register Review Board prior to their meeting scheduled for September 4, 2014.  It was through this relentless commitment and dedication that the vote was won.

Rogers Park Golf Course
7910 N 30th St, Tampa, FL 33610
Phone: (813) 356-1670

RuthandBrenda rufus013

 

 

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Beauty

Glam Screen 

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

glamscreenThe Glam Screen is a fabulous new tempered glass screen protector.  The mobile accessory is great for anyone who wants to keep a check on their looks while on the go.  Ladies will especially love the beautiful colors (glass, pink and gold) that easily fit onto any iPhone or Android phone!

These great screen protectors have pizzazz and are effortless.  No more frustration in searching for your mirror with this item.  You simply adhere the ‘bubble-free’ screensaver onto the phone and you’re ready to rock-n-roll without missing a beat.

The Glam Screen is perfect to use when applying make-up, lipstick, lip gloss, papering your hair, face, checking your smile, or whatever.  It is convenient to use—no more digging around in your purse or handbag to locate your mirror, just grab your phone and you have all that you need.

glamscreen-2The Glam Screen mirror is scratch resistant and the mirror imag quickly disappears when your turn your phone screen light on.    The Glam Screen will keep you looking as good as you can while on the go.

 

 

 

 

Features

o    Awesome gold tinted color

o    Super thin only 0.33mm thick

o    Comes in full retail packaging

o    Mirror does not scratch easily and is very durable

o    Easy no-bubble installation includes a wipe and cloth

 

All Glam Screen Protector purchases come with a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee, that means if your screen protector ever becomes damaged, Glam Screen will replace it FREE for the life of your phone.

MSRP: $34.99

 

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Slider

Charlie Sifford Drive Honors The Late Pioneering Black Golfer in Los Angeles, California

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

A street dedication ceremony was held for the recently renamed Charlie Sifford Drive in the unincorporated Athens area honoring the late pioneering black golfer.

Sifford’s son Charlie Jr., his caddy Jimmy Green, Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and former Assemblyman Steve Bradford attended the Sunday ceremony at the southwest corner of Western Avenue and Charlie Sifford Drive, near the entrance to the Chester Washington Golf Course, Sifford’s longtime home course.

Charlie-Sifford-Jr-accepts-sign
Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas (left) presents Charles Sifford Jr., with the honorary street sign.

“It’s important that we honor Mr. Sifford’s tremendous accomplishments so that all may be inspired by his courage and perseverance,” Ridley-Thomas said.

Ridley-Thomas joined Supervisor Don Knabe in authoring a motion in June to rename the portion of West 120th Street between Western and Van Ness avenues Charlie Sifford Drive.

charlie-sifford-jr-speaksCharles Sifford Jr. expresses his thanks while making remarks to the audience

The ceremony coincided with the conclusion of a tournament at the Chester Washington Golf Course conducted by the Advocates, a group of black male golfers that raises funds for organizations benefiting the black community.

Sifford became the first black on the PGA Tour in 1960 and the first black to be enshrined in the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2004.

(photo:Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas’s Twitter)

Read more at LA TIMES

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News

Tiger Woods Misses The Cut At PGA Championship

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

(by Jim McCabe)

MOSEL, Wis. — Though your GPS would take you in a fairly direct route of roughly 800 miles to get to Greensboro, N.C., from this locale along the shores of Lake Michigan, Tiger Woods has a different itinerary. He’ll travel through southern Florida.

And even then he might not make it to next week’s Wyndham Championship.

“I’m just going to sit back and I’ll go through with my team, we’ll talk about it, what I need to do and see if that’s the right move or not. We’ll decide next couple days,” Woods said, when asked Saturday morning whether he would tee it up in the final regular-season tournament on the PGA Tour schedule.

Shortly after leaving Whistling Straits on Friday evening when play in the 97th PGA Championship was suspended because of dangerous weather, Woods committed to the Wyndham. But truth be told, he was only working within the confines of PGA Tour regulations in an effort to cover himself. Rules dictate that players have until 30 minutes after the completion of “Friday’s play” to commit to the next week’s tournament.

Woods’ thinking seemingly was this: Come back Saturday morning, catch a little magic, make the cut, have a strong weekend to move up from 187th in the FedEx Cup standings and give yourself a chance for a strong Wyndham to possibly make the playoffs.

So the commitment to the Greensboro tournament, one that Woods has never played, was made only as a precaution; had he not committed Friday night, he couldn’t have done so Saturday.

Alas, the likelihood of keeping a date with the Wyndham shrank exponentially Saturday when Woods returned to the course and missed the cut. His words didn’t bode well for the folks in Greensboro when he said, “I guess the PGA Tour season may be coming to a close, but I’ve still got plenty of golf to play around the world.”

He couched it, of course, by saying, “I’m … potentially missing out on the playoffs,” but as he left Whistling Straits Woods certainly knew what missing the cut meant: that he would likely have to win Wyndham to make the playoffs and that a solo second couldn’t guarantee a spot.

But more important to Woods, or so it appeared, was the chance to take a deep breath and offer a sigh of relief that his summer run of major-championship misery was over. That it ended at Whistling Straits in a fashion similar to his visits to Chambers Bay and the Old Course — uninspiring — was true, though Woods clung to a sliver of optimism.

“I hit it good enough to be where I needed to be,” he said of his 75-73 trips at Whistling Straits. “But I putted awful.”

Read more at GOLFWEEK

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Son, Daughter-In-Law of Late Charlie Sifford Indicted For Stealing $1Million From The Legendary Golfer

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

NEW YORK—JULY 28, 2015—The son and ex-daughter-in-law of the late black golfing pioneer Charlie Sifford have been indicted for charges related to the theft of more than $1 million from the renowned World Golf Hall of Famer.  Sifford’s son Craig and daughter-in-law Sandra Sifford were both charged for their crimes on Tuesday, July 28, 2015.

The court cited the two with theft, money laundering and unauthorized use of property. Craig and Sandra, both age 48, recently divorced a couple of months ago. The Cuyahoga County prosecutor’s office says they spent Sifford’s money for their own personal use on travel, dining, clothes, jewelry, electronics and landscaping at their Brecksville (OH) home, among other expenses.
The indictment cites thefts beginning in 2010 through 2013, which total up to more than $1 million, according to investigators.

news fox 8Conducted in part by the Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine’s office, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office and the IRS, the investigation began after authorities received a complaint that Craig Sifford was “abusing his role as his father’s power of attorney.”
Craig and Sandra Sifford have each been charged with three counts of theft, one count of money laundering and one count of unauthorized use of property each. Sandra Sifford was also charged with one count of receiving stolen property.

Authorities said the criminal investigation of Craig and Sandra Sifford was already underway before Charlie Sifford Sr. died on February 3, 2015, at age 92. Charlie Sifford, Sr., lived in Warrensville Heights (OH) before his death and called Northeast Ohio his home for many years.

RELATED: A Tribute To The Late Charlie Sifford

Assistant County Prosecutor Paul Soucie said the elderly and the disabled are “particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation, especially from family members.”

Charlie Sifford, who is credited for courageously breaking the professional golf color barrier, served as an inspiration to so many people and, tragically, ended up being financially exploited by members of his family,” said Attorney General Mike DeWine.
Charlie Sifford won six National Negro Opens before successfully challenging the PGA’s “Caucasian only” rule — despite harassment and death threats — in 1960. He won his first PGA title in 1967 and another in 1969. He was considered by many “the Jackie Robinson of professional golf.”

“Crimes like this will not be tolerated in Ohio, and through my office’s Elder Justice Initiative, we work to hold those accountable who steal from older Ohioans.”

Charlie Sifford, also known for his trademark cigar, and speaking his mind, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House from President Barack Obama in November 2014 – the highest award that can be received by a civilian.
Read the full indictment HERE .

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News

Ryder Cup Points – WGC – Bridgestone Invitational

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

 

Rank This week First Last Rank last week 2015 Cumulative POINTS
1 Jordan SPIETH 1 4,226.789
2 Zach JOHNSON 2 2,284.669
3 Dustin JOHNSON 3 2,103.366
4 Rickie FOWLER 4 1,370.325
5 Phil MICKELSON 5 1,057.697
6 Bubba WATSON 16 833.612
7 Jim FURYK 13 673.621
8 Kevin KISNER 6 664.425
9 J.B. HOLMES 7 647.466
10 Bill HAAS 8 603.745
11 Kevin NA 9 599.581
12 Brooks KOEPKA 11 584.991
13 Gary WOODLAND 10 554.199
14 Patrick REED 12 525.118
15 Hunter MAHAN 14 417.352
16 Charley HOFFMAN 15 409.974
17 Robert STREB 27 390.148
18 Brandt SNEDEKER 17 387.674
19 Matt KUCHAR 18 358.333
20 Russell HENLEY 20 356.438
21 Billy HORSCHEL 19 348.609
22 Webb SIMPSON 22 346.615
23 Ben MARTIN 21 332.159
24 Ryan MOORE 23 331.859
25 Brendon TODD 24 262.452
26 Keegan BRADLEY 29 258.651
27 Ryan PALMER 26 253.839
28 Chris KIRK 25 235.994
29 Jason DUFNER 28 223.360
30 Jimmy WALKER 31 213.208
31 Kevin STREELMAN 30 196.000
32 Morgan HOFFMAN 32 180.876
33 Tiger WOODS 33 165.000
34 Tony FINAU 34 156.935
35 Cameron TRINGALE 35 135.946
36 Brian HARMAN 36 135.000
37 Mark O’MEARA 37 114.915
38 Charlie BELJAN 38 113.686
39 Stewart CINK 39 95.938
40 David TOMS 40 93.750
41 Steve STRICKER 41 90.000
42 Harris ENGLISH 42 66.243
T43 Derek FATHAUER 43 65.429
T43 Jerry KELLY 43 65.429
T43 George MCNEILL 43 65.429
T43 Pat PEREZ 43 65.429
47 Daniel SUMMERHAYS 47 64.126
48 Matt EVERY 52 61.142
49 James HAHN 56 58.563
50 Erik COMPTON 48 53.663
51 Troy KELLY 49 47.854
T52 Chesson HADLEY 50 40.500
T52 Justin THOMAS 50 40.500
54 Kevin CHAPPELL 53 37.090
55 Sam SAUNDERS 54 31.633
56 Troy MERRITT 68 30.175
57 David DUVAL 55 29.227
T58 Scott BROWN 56 29.063
T58 Bo VAN PELT 56 29.063
T60 Brad ELDER 59 25.358
T60 D.A. POINTS 59 25.358
62 Andy POPE 61 22.652
63 Martin FLORES 62 22.000
64 Chris STROUD 63 15.700
65 Luke GUTHRIE 64 11.840
66 Charles HOWELL III 65 11.100
67 Bryce MOLDER 66 10.600
68 Scott LANGLEY 67 10.300
69 Scott STALLINGS 69 9.500

 

 

U. S. Ryder Cup Qualifications
The United States points system will be determined as follows:

  • Eight of the 12 members of the U.S. Team will be named on points earned following the conclusion of The Barclays, which is scheduled to conclude Sunday Aug. 28, 2016. This new timetable gives two additional weeks for players to earn Ryder Cup qualifying points.
  • Captain’s Picks – U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III will make three of his four Captain’s Picks after the conclusion of the BMW Championship, which is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016. His final Captain’s pick will take place Sunday evening after the TOUR Championship, Sept. 25, 2016. This new timetable also is pushed back two weeks.

Points System 
All U.S. players will earn points based upon the following criteria starting in 2015 and concluding Aug. 28, 2016:

  • 2015 Major Championships (1 Point per $1,000 earned) – The Masters, U.S. Open, Open Championship, PGA Championship
  • 2015 WGC Events and The Players Championship (1 Point per $2,000 earned) – WGC Cadillac Championship, WGC Match Play Championship, The Players Championship, WGC Bridgestone Invitational, WGC HSBC Champions
  • 2016 Regular PGA TOUR Events (1 point per $1,000 earned) – Beginning Jan. 1, 2016, through and including the Barclays on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016
  • 2016 Opposite Field PGA TOUR Events will not receive any points
  • 2016 Major Championships (2 points per $1,000 earned)

The 41st Ryder Cup will be held Sept. 27 – Oct. 2, 2016, at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota.

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Golf Tips

Ball Flight Laws

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

How To Self-Diagnose All of Your Golf Swing Problems

Having a good understanding of modern ball flight laws in golf can help you to self-diagnose your own swing faults – and then quickly correct them.

Rather than hitting buckets of balls at the range in the hope that pure repetition will fix that slice or that hook, you can use the direction and the path of the golf ball to give you very accurate feedback about how you’re swinging the golf club.

“Old” Ball Flight Laws Vs “New” Ball Flight Laws

There’s a lot of fuss over ball flight dynamics at the moment…

With a quick search, you’ll find a lot written on the Net about “old ball flight laws” versus “new ball flight laws” and how the old laws are completely defunct (despite still being taught by some PGA professionals).

A lot of this information is overly complex – especially for the typical golfer that wants practical advice for improving his or her game.

So, rather than giving you an in-depth comparison or complicated analysis, we’ll keep things simple and usable based on our newer, more accurate understanding of ball flight laws.

There Are Only 2 Factors Affecting The Shape Of Your Golf shots

Each time you make a golf swing, there are 2 factors that determine the direction and the flight path of the golf ball. One is your swing path and the other is the club face angle at impact (club face angle is a much bigger contributor, but we’ll get to that in a moment):

Factor #1 – Swing Path

Swing path is the path or direction that the golf club travels during the downswing and through impact with the golf ball.

Whenever we talk about swing path, it’s always in relation to the ball-to-target line(see the image to the right):

There are only ever 3 possible swing paths relative to our ball-to-target line:

  • Out-to-in – the club head travels from outside the target line, across it, and then inside the target line. In effect, the path of the club is travelling to the leftof the ball-to-target line.
  • In-to-out – the club head travels from inside the target line, across it, and then outside the target line. So the path of the club is travelling to the right of the ball-to-target line.
  • Straight – the club head travels straight down the ball-to-target line as it makes contact with the ball.

Factor #2 – Club Face Angle

Club face angle simply relates to the direction that the club face is pointing as it makes contact with the ball. When we talk about club face angle it’s always in relation to the path the club is travelling along (swing path).

Again, there are only ever 3 possible club face angles relative to the swing path for that particular swing:

  • Open – the club face is aiming to the right of the swing path line.
  • Closed – club face is aiming to the left of the swing path line.
  • Square – the club face is pointing directly along the line of the swing path line (i.e. the leading edge of the club head is at right angles to the swing path line).

What Causes The Ball’s Starting Direction?

Until more recently, it was generally taught that the swing path of the golf club determines the inital starting direction of the ball. So an out-to-in swing path for example, would start the ball left of the target line.

As PGA teaching professionals we knew instinctively that this wasn’t 100% accurate, but it was easy to teach beginners that the “swing path sends it and the club face bends it”.The club face angle, it was taught, then determines whether there is any side spin on the ball, adding curve during its flight.

We now know that the club face angle at the point of impact is by far the biggest and most important influence on the ball’s starting direction.

Recent data (from launch monitors such as the Trackman and high speed cameras) shows that about 85% of initial shot direction is attributed to the golf club face angle at impact.

What Causes Side Spin?

Side spin on the golf ball is responsible for curving it right or left during its flight (as it does with a slice or hook shot for example).

The club face angle in relation to the line of the swing path is what determines side spin – and the amount of it…

A club face angle that is open relative to the swing path line places clockwise spin on the ball. The more open the club face is relative to the swing path line, the more side spin it places on the ball.

And it’s vice versa for a club face angle that is closed relative to the swing path. It places anti-clockwise spin on the golf ball and the bigger the angle between club face and swing path line, the more counter-clockwise spin it results in.

Example Ball Flights And What They Tell You

Whenever you visit the practice range, make a point of noticing the shape of every shot that you hit. Watching the ball flight gives you instant feedback about the swing you’ve just made – particularly the club face angle and often your swing path as well.

Example Ball Flight #1

If your ball starts left or right of your target but the ball flight is straight (i.e. no side-spin that would curve the ball as well), then you know that the club face angle at impact is nice and square to your swing path. So it must be your swing path that is causing the poor starting direction (ball starting left = out-to-in swing path, ball starting right = in-to-out swing path).

Example Ball Flight #2

If your shots start left of your target and then curve aggressively back to the right (a classic slice) then your club face angle must be open to the swing path line (because of the side spin). But your swing path line must also be severely out-to-in. Why?

For the ball to start left of target, the club face must be facing left of target at impact – but to create the open angle between club face and swing path line (which imparts that side spin), the swing path line must be even further left again.

Example Ball Flight #3

What if your shots start left of target and then curve further and further left (called a pull-hook)?

Well, again your club face angle must be closed to your swing path at impact – because there is anti-clockwise side spin. But you cannot accurately say what’s happening with your swing path. It could be straight down the ball-to-target line, it could be out-to-in and it could even be slightly in-to-out. Vice-versa holds true for a push-slice (a shot that starts right of target and curves further and further right).
Read more at Free Online Golf Tips

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BlogFeatured Blog

“Go Frogs!!!” TCU Field Trip Recap

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Hello All,

I am so excited about the progress of moving forward, to heighten the training and broaden the experience, of the young people in our LPGA-USGA Girls /Roaring Lambs Jr. golf program.

Last week, the juniors had an opportunity to visit the Women’s Golf Coach Jeannie Sutherland at Southern Methodist University (SMU). The kids learned a whole lot and, overall, had an good time.

On Monday, July 27th, nothing could compare to the First Class treatment that Coach Angela Larkin, Texas Christian University (TCU) Women’s Head Golf Coach, presented to the juniors….I am still in awe and can only express my feelings as WOW!

#1 on the list:
All-aboard the luxury Mercedes-Benz Van that was donated to the women’s golf team by TCU Alumni and LPGA Touring Pro Angela Stanford.

#2 on the list:
Associate Athletic Director Scott Hull adds three “C’s” to the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf and five “E’ s” with emphasis on two of them, Character and Chemistry.

#3 on the list:
TCU Alumni and former NFL player Shawn Worthen, the current Director of Academic Athletic Affairs, light-heartedly told the kids his favorite golf club was the “F Wedge”– (foot wedge ).  But in all seriousness, he let the young golfers know just how important academics are for any athlete, to fit into the TCU world by putting an emphasis on them being’ products of opportunity’.  He stated: “You can’t buy talent; Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work.”  The former defensive tackle in the National Football League ended his address to the kids by explaining “The power of a dream” and, to “Always protect your dream.”

#4 on the list:
Missy Mitchell, a strength and conditioning coach, along with Julianne, a nutrition specialist, empowered the young golfers with their knowledge, weighing in on the importance of diet—and stressing the important role it plays in performance, mentally and physically: ENERGIZE & EXERCISE.

Our trip began, and ended, with soon-to-graduate from TCU, student April McCoy.  April is one of Coach Larkin’s favorite girl golfers— but before her 5 years with Coach Larkin, April was (and still remains) a Roaring Lamb!–once a Roaring Lamb, always a Roaring Lamb.

April shared her junior experience as a Roaring Lamb and told everyone what she learned while in the program.  Her message was fully absorbed by all those in the room and it laid a solid foundation for her matriculation into TCU. She also reiterated the value of knowing the rules, and playing by those rules, at a very young age. I fought back tears as April took the trip down memory lane….Thanks, April.

Coach Larkin and I are so blessed to have an opportunity to coach young girls who are talented, hard-working, smart, spiritual, humble but confidant.  These young ladies are beautiful on the inside, as well as on the outside.  Young girls that someday will become beautiful young women.  Even now, they show their gratitude, and are appreciative of the many opportunities that come their way.
April you are a beautiful gift !!!!

To all of you: Coach Angela Larkin, Assistant Coach Danny Randall, Athletic Director Chris Conti, Associate Athletic Director Scott Kull, Director of Academic Athletic Affairs Shawn Worthen, Missy Mitchell a Strength and Conditioning Coach, and Julianne Nutrition Specialist.

I applaud the TCU Women’s Golf Program as one of the premier Golf Programs in the nation and I am forever thankful, and extremely grateful, to Coach Larkin for providing us with a classy tour and for rolling out the Red Carpet to the LPGA-USGA Girls/Roaring Lambs Junior Golfers!

 

GladysLee-2Until next time,

Coach Gladys M. Lee
LPGA Professional Teacher & Coach
Founder/Executive Director, Roaring Lambs International Junior Golf Academy

www.roaringlambsjrgolf.com
[email protected]
214-212-9475
Send Gladys A Comment! 

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Health & Wellness

Tinke Health & Wellness Monitor

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Technology is bringing wellness and fitness to consumers like no other time in the history of our planet.  Now, Tinke, a health and wellness monitor for iPhone (and Androids) is taking body monitoring to another level.  Created by Zensorium, Tinke is masterfully designed and showcases itself as a sleek, shiny, lightweight body monitor.  No more filling up your bag with numerous gadgets to monitor your body.  Tinke has solved this problem.

tinkeThis tiny gadget is packed full of amazing features.  The Tinke measure your heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation and heart rate variability to determine your fitness and stress indices. It’s perfect to keep with you at home or while travelling.   The device is conveniently small and easy to carry along with you in a bag or purse.

Tinke_2The Tinke requires that you download the iPhone app, which it uses to masterfully collect a lot of health data, to give you two simple scores.  One is your Vita and the second is your Zen number.  These scores can easily be shared with others, or used to track your health.  The Zen score measures your level of stress, along with providing breathing exercises, that you can practice to increase your Zen score.

One thing that is marvelous about the Tinke, is that is does not require the use of batteries.  That’s right, not batteries needed.  The Tinke never has to be charged—that’s right, NEVER.  That’s because all of its power comes from the iPhone. There are also connections available for newer model iPhone 5 & iPhone 6.

The Tnke comes in several great colors and it  is an excellent product to help you keep on top of your health and fitness monitoring.

MSRP: $119.00 for iPhone and Android

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