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Media Guide for the ‘Golf Journey to Australia’

June 26, 2015 By admin

The “Golf Journey to Australia” was a 32-day, 4,648-kilometer (2,888 miles) driving all over the North & South Island, 21-golf course Odyssey. New Zealand and Auckland are comparable in size and population to Oregon and Portland, respectively. I never felt constrained, there is much more to see. I hope to return for more golf and adventure travel and to meet more New Zealanders! Great country, great people!

It took 24-1/2 hours to travel 11,628 miles to get there via Dallas-Fort-Worth, Honolulu and Sydney and 22-1/2 hours and 10,827 miles to return home to Jacksonville, Florida, USA. No worries, it was well worth the travel time!

Here is a general summary of accommodations, golf courses played, tourist destinations visited (tour guides used) in the course of traveling, golfing and living in Kiwi-Land for one glorious month!

My last day in New Zealand at the Sky Tower in Auckland.

Feature articles with stay, play & visit details along with pictures and video interviews will be coming soon so please check back. In the meantime links to their websites are included below.

If I can assist you with your travel plans to New Zealand please do not hesitate to contact me at AndyReistetter@gmail.com.

I hope you will visit New Zealand. I am happy I did as it was a lifetime adventure and memory for sure!

Danny Balin, Champion Person, Now Champion Golfer.

May 25, 2015 By admin

Danny Balin, the Champion of the 2015 Guatemala Stella Artois Open. Photo Credit: Google Images & PGA TOUR Latinoamerica.

As I am currently reliving the 100-day, 14-country, 18,471-mile ‘Journey to Olympic Golf,’ I was saving Danny Balin for JTOG Day No. 70 because that was the day I met him in Lima, Peru. But the word is out as of yesterday when he won his first professional golf tournament, the Guatemala Stella Artois Open on the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica. His victory came at The La Reunion Golf Resort & Residences on the Fuego Maya Course in Antigua, Guatemala, another stop on my odyssey to Rio.

Well the word was already out well before his first professional win if you know Danny Balin or someone that knows him! He is a great guy and I can attest to that! I was making my way down the west coast of South America with a stop in Lima. I met a guy named Billy Gorbitz who took me over the ridge to see his club called La Planicie and have some cerviche. That day they happened to be hosting the grand finale event for the Development Tour of the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica. I looked at the scoreboard and saw only one American—you guessed it, Danny Balin!

Later that evening I am taking the elevator down at the Hotel & Spa Golf Los Incas and a guy gets on heading down to the lobby to pick up a pizza. I introduced myself and he told me he was there competing in a golf tournament. I told him that he must be Danny Balin and he was!

CLICK here for the Full Video Interview with Danny Balin from November 2013 in Lima, Peru.

Interviewing Danny Balin in November, 2013 in Lima, Peru.

He granted me an interview and though as impressive as that was there was more to follow that made me an immediate Danny Balin fan! Along the way on the Journey to Rio I began to accumulate golf books. First at Glen Echo, then at the Golf Club of Mexico and another one about the first 100 years of golf in Mexico. Without Torch and her trunk my backpack and roller bag were starting to buldge. Golf books are heavy! A few days later I was flying out of Lima to Santiago and there I met Danny again and explained my situation. Without hesitation he offered to take my books back to the States for me. What a guy that I just met to offer to be a book mule for me!

Danny Balin’s name on the board at La Planicie CC, now at the top of the leaderboard at the 2015 Guatemala Stella Artois Open!

At that time (November 2013), Danny’s claim to fame was competing in four straight PGA Championships, having qualified through the PGA Professional National Championship. Even more impressive is that he picked up golf in the last year in high school and never had an amateur career. But he made up for that with all he has accomplished in the last 10 years, including being a 3-time Met Section Player of the Year after coming out of the Professional Golf Management Program at Penn State.

A Michael Breed protege? Watch the video and you decide!

In addition to the four majors he competed in the 2014 Puerto Rico Open. In addition to the 29 PGA TOUR Latinoamérica events, Danny has competed in 8 PGA TOUR CANADA events. If my math is right, his win in Guatemala came in only his 42nd professional event at age 33 after a little over a decade of preparing for and going after his dream.

It is exciting and inspiring to see a guy following and living his dream!

I agree with Danny, the sky is the limit!

Filed Under: Hickory Golf, People in Golf, PGA TOUR Golf

The Battle of Quail Hollow: Phil vs. Tiger, No it’s Rory!

May 17, 2015 By admin

Rory wins for the 11th time on the PGA TOUR at the 2015 Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow Club. Photo Credit: Telegraph.co.uk.

Looking back a little from Rory McIlroy’s 11th career PGA TOUR win today at Quail Hollow in the Wells Fargo Championship. I was there five years ago in 2010 when he won there on the PGA TOUR for the very first time. This is a column I wrote early in the week. At the time it was only Phil vs. Tiger. Today it seems like Rory over the World of Golf. To think there is a Major, the 2017 PGA Championship, coming there in only two years!

The original article from April 28th, 2010:

The Battle of Quail Hollow: Phil vs. Tiger

James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, was born nearby on November 2, 1795.

Good morning- this is Andy Reistetter from the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The 11^th president of the United States, James Polk was born within a few miles of where I am standing. One of his successors, Abraham Lincoln was at the helm of our country when the War Between the States broke out at Fort Sumter in South Carolina. Maybe you haven’t noticed but a struggle is breaking out between Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods to be the Number 1 golfer in the world.

Woods may have 14 major titles but Phil won the last one at Augusta National two weeks ago. Tiger won here at Quail Hollow three years ago. Phil has consistently contended with four Top 10s and a T12 in six years though never winning here.

Welcome to the Battle of Quail Hollow.

Tiger Woods posing with his pro-am group on Wednesday on the 18th green.

World No. 2 Phil Mickelson going head-to-head against World No. 1 Tiger Woods on a golf course that feels major-like. Major-like in design, condition and tournament atmosphere. There’s a strong field here at Quail Hollow leading into THE PLAYERS Championship next week on the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass. World No. 3 Steve Stricker is on the sideline this week with a nagging soreness in his chest. World No. 4 Lee Westwood is here. He is comfortable wearing the crown of “best player to have never won a Major.”

Maybe he knows it is a temporary sort of thing. Sooner or later it ends whether or not you win a major. Just ask Sergio Garcia.

Even though Stricker is ranked higher in the rankings while Sergio is plummeting Westwood the Englishman rightly owns the title. His finishes in the last three majors? Joint third at the Open at Turnberry, joint third at the PGA at Hazeltine, and solo second at the Masters. He clearly is knocking on the door. Whether or not he knocks it down and takes his major championship trophy home with him to England remains to be seen. Westwood admits to being “a little rusty” not playing since the Masters.

Looking ahead to the next major- the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach he poked a little fun at FedEx a major sponsor of the PGA TOUR. A tour which he chooses not to become a member of due to family obligations and travel constraints. Remember he is Europe’s No. 1 player and won the other thing called “The Race to Dubai.”

The par-5 15th hole is the start of the ‘Green Mile.’

Wanting to play Memphis the week before the U.S. Open as a tune-up to perhaps his first major victory, he was denied a spot in the field. Image that- a regular PGA TOUR event, in need of a title sponsor by the way, not wanting the 4^th ranked player in the world in their field?

How could that be?

Well it turns out Memphis, Tennessee is the corporate home and headquarters of FedEx. When asked why he thought he was rejected from playing in Memphis, Westwood tugged at the UPS logo on his shirt playfully guessing that may be the reason.

World No. 5 Jim Furyk won here in 2006 and is hot this year with wins at the Transitions and the Heritage. For the past seven years the victors here at Quail Hollow have signaled a sort of “changing of the guard” on the PGA TOUR. In the order of their wins, the older guard of David Toms, Joey Sindelar, and Vijay Singh gave way to the intermediate guard of Jim Furyk and Tiger Woods while the younger guard of Anthony Kim and Sean O’Hair have won the last two years.

It’s no secret the city of Charlotte and the Quail Hollow Club would like to host a major championship or maybe a Ryder Cup someday soon.

The layout for Quail Hollow has changed a bit since 2010, most notably on the 16th and 17th holes in preparation for the 2017 PGA.

The golf course is a pedigree designed by George Cobb in 1961. At 7,476 yards it is a par 72 masterpiece that captures the beauty of the low rolling hills of the Piedmont region.

The last three holes- the 483-yard par-4 16^th, the 217-yard par-3 17^th and the 478-yard par-4 18^th hole are known as “The Green Mile.” Add the yardages up and that’s only 1,178 yards. Whatever happened to a 1,760-yard mile? Who shortened the finishing holes from four to three? If you throw in the 566-yard par-5 15^th hole it makes it 1,744- only 16 yards short of that mile of incredibly green tees, fairways and greens.

If you throw in the best players of the world on a great golf course with an unbelievable atmosphere then you have the Quail Hollow Championship.

Tiger versus Phil, it’s the complete golfing thrill at the Battle of Quail Hollow.

This one is likely to go four rounds, maybe more.

This is Andy Reistetter reporting from the scene of the times- good golfing and good living to you my friends.

Andy Reistetter is a freelance golf writer. He follows the PGA TOUR volunteering and working part time for various golf broadcasting networks. He resides in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida near the PGA TOUR headquarters and home of The PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. He enjoys pursuing his passion for the game of golf and everything associated with it. He can be reached through his website Andy’s Golf & Travel Diary or by e-mailing him to AndyReistetter@gmail.com

Filed Under: Hickory Golf, PGA TOUR Golf

Memories of the 2015 PLAYERS Championship Won by Rickie Fowler!

May 10, 2015 By admin

This was definitely a PLAYERS to remember! And looking at the 57 pictures in the photo gallery below I remember it like it was yesterday!

Met a lot of great people, including Billy Horschel, at the Lexus pre-tournament event! What fun!

Then it was an extraordinary Military Appreciation Day with the F-16 flyover and a special performance by American country music duo Big & Rich. God and Country, it was an extra special evening to simply love being alive and experiencing life in a meaningful way!

Military Appreciation Day kicks it off and the Sunday Service on the back lawn of the Clubhouse took THE PLAYERS Championship week-long experience to new heights!

But in the end, albeit decreasingly so, THE PLAYERS Championship is all about the golf and the golf was truly spectacular at the 2015 PLAYERS, especially late on Sunday afternoon!

Rickie Fowler won by beating Kevin Kisner and Sergio Garcia in a playoff but that is only the headline of the story. How he did it was truly amazing!

First, he was five strokes down with six holes to play. He played them well, going birdie-par-birdie-eagle-birdie-birdie, six-under-par the last six holes! WOW!

Second, Fowler was still tied with Sergio Garcia after the new 3-hole aggregate playoff was completed.

Lastly, Fowler birdie the 17th hole for the third time in a row (regulation, aggregate playoff, sudden-death playoff), and the fifth time for the week (birdie in Rounds 1 & 2, par in Round 3) to beat Sergio in the sudden-death playoff following the 3-hole aggregate playoff.

Quite a spectacular PLAYERS!

Photo Credit: SearchPrivacy.co

[Show slideshow]

Filed Under: Hickory Golf, PGA TOUR Golf

BEST Ticket for THE PLAYERS includes Playing Dye’s Valley!

May 4, 2015 By admin

THE PLAYERS starts with the Military Celebration and Concert on Tuesday night on the back lawn of the Clubhouse.

We are down to the last night before the world gets fixated on the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass for the 42nd rendition of THE PLAYERS Championship! If you are lucky enough to be in Ponte Vedra Beach there are plans to be made. Which players to follow, where is the best location to be a spectator or if you are even more lucky, choosing which corporate hospitality tent to stop by? Or should I just hang out in Nineteen in the Clubhouse? I took a close look and came up with five spectator tips for THE PLAYERS.

CLICK here for Andy’s Top 5 Spectator Tips for THE PLAYERS Championship!

But what is the ULTIMATE PLAYERS Ticket?

In my opinion, the ultimate PLAYERS ticket is to do all of the above for the entire week and play the Dye Valley Course after THE PLAYERS. There are tee times available here for Tuesday, May 12th.

Watch golf at the Stadium Course but be sure to play golf at the Valley!

You may not realize it but the Dye Valley Course has hosted some great golf competitions of its own. Golf history made on the Valley include two Senior Players Championship and three Web.com tournaments. Since 2013 the Valley has become the permanent home of the Web.com Tour Championship. Dye’s other creati0n at TPC Sawgrass is an ongoing Fountain of Youth quenching the thirst for young talent on the PGA TOUR with champions like Russell Henley, Derek Fathauer and Chesson Hadley.

Milan Moore, Dye’s Valley Project Manager making the rounds as the restoration neared completion.

From an amateur golfer’s perspective the Valley is a guaranteed playground in great shape. Last year’s course renovation was completed in time for the September Playoff Finale. The project, managed by Milan Moore, a course designer in the PGA TOUR Design Services Group, restored the greens to their original size (roughly 30% larger) with a change to Bermuda TifEagle grass (which the Stadium will change to after THE PLAYERS this year). The fairways and tees were changed to Celebration Bermuda, following the recent change on the Stadium. With a new irrigation and drainage systems installed, the course is now available in prime condition even if it happens to rain a little before your tee time.

CLICK here for a Video Interview with Lucas Andrews, Dye’s Valley Golf Course Superintendent.

With Lucas Andrews, Golf Course Superintendent in John Deere Land at TPC Sawgrass.

Lucas Andrews, the Golf Course Superintendent for Dye’s Valley at TPC Sawgrass, is the guy that creates the “firm and fast” conditions for the Web.com Tour Championship. With five years experience at TPC Sawgrass he commands the army of John Deere equipment during championship week in September. Educated in Canada, Lucas was at The Old Course in St. Andrews for a year-long internship before coming to TPC Sawgrass. His favorite time on the Valley is early in the morning or late in the evening when the low sun highlights all the bumps and hollows. Here is a guy that has come from the ‘Home of Golf’ to the ‘Home of THE PLAYERS.’

CLICK here for a Video Interview with Brian Riddle, Resident Golf Professional at TPC Sawgrass.

Brian Riddle, Golf Professional resides at TPC Sawgrass, Home of the PLAYERS on the Stadium and The Web.com Championship on Dye’s Valley.

Brian Riddle, the Resident Golf Professional at TPC Sawgrass, is a lover of the game of golf and working at TPC Sawgrass. His Dad put a golf club in his hand as a young child and after playing junior and high school golf he tried to walk on at UNC Wilmington. While not successful as a competitive golfer he turned to the business side of golf After earning his Business Management degree, he went to NC State and graduated from the Professional Golf Management program. His favorite hole on the Valley is the dogleg right No. 6 (Tournament No. 15) with water all the way down the right hand side. Brian has an interesting title and he laughed when I asked him if he lives at the Clubhouse. I think he does.

Enjoy THE PLAYERS this year and play Dye’s Valley! You will be happy you did!

Penn State has Happy Valley, we have Dye’s Fun Valley! With John Anderson, Dennis Berkholtz and Stokes Hill (L to R).

Filed Under: "Play-Write" Golf Courses, East Coast Golf Journey, Hickory Golf, PGA TOUR Golf

Andy’s Top 5 Spectator Tips for THE PLAYERS Championship!

May 4, 2015 By admin

View of the 18th from the terrace of the Clubhouse, no better sense of TPC Sawgrass than here!

Going to THE PLAYERS Championship this year? If you are not, you should be whether you are a golf fan or not. This is THE community event in Northeast Florida and the premier event of the golfing season since it is hosted by the PGA TOUR at its home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida at TPC Sawgrass. This will be my 7th consecutive PLAYERS Championship starting with Sergio’s playoff win on the 17th in 2008 to last year’s romp by Tiger Woods. Last week’s Media Day was a progressive affair that put me out on the Stadium Course looking and tasting all the latest Executive Director Matt Rapp’s team has to offer at Golf’s version of Disneyland. THE PLAYERS Ultimate Entertainment Guide (courtesy of THE PLAYERS) is included below. Here are Andy’s Top 5 Spectator Tips for the 2014 PLAYERS! No. 1 is sure to surprise you!

No. 5 Enjoy TacoLu’s Tacos on Twelve!

With TacoLu owners Debbie & Don Nicol at their new venue behind the 12th green.

Maybe it’s my food hangover from the Journey to Olympic Golf through Latin America or the shame of not yet having gone to TacoLu, Jacksonville’s most popular Baja Mexicana restaurant but you have to try “The Lu’s” delicious menu items! Baja Fish, Bangin’ Shrimp and TacoLu Verde are the featured tacos. Your challenge will be to find this secluded, shaded, siesta solution to taking a break from the world’s most competitive golf. It’s located in the middle of the Taco Triangle formed by the 11^th tee, the 12^th green and the 13^th tee. Enter this haven by crossing directly in front of the 11^th tee (when clear of flying golf balls of course) or back player’s left of the 12^th green. One of many, many fine eating choices. See more details below in THE PLAYERS’ Ultimate Entertainment Guide.

No. 4 Party at a Lot Party Onsite after Play!

With former All Pro Jaguars player Tony Boselli.

They all benefit charity so pick at least one, preferably more, this year and enjoy! I am going to THE CUT hosted by the Boselli Foundation on Friday because former All Pro Jaguars player Tony Boselli encouraged me too. He is a BIG guy so I listen to what he says! “The Lot” is a hospitality structure located outside the Nicklaus Gate in General Parking off of CR210. The Lot parties follow the end of golf and requires an additional ticket. Every night is a great party with great entertainment for great causes!

Wednesday is CASY (Corporate America Supports You) which is dedicated to getting local servicemen and women back into the workforce. The event will feature live performances from Jason Isbell and Cali Rodi.

Thursday is The After Partee hosted by YMCA of Florida’s First Coast. Kimberly Paige, a Ponte Vedra native, will open for Jon Pardi. Proceeds will enable the YMCA to send children from underserved communities to summer camps across the First Coast.

Friday is THE CUT hosted by the Boselli Foundation. The Boselli Foundation provides educational and character development programs to at-risk children in Jacksonville. Live entertainment by The Band Be Easy.

Saturday is Loudmouth Day at THE PLAYERS & the Lot Party!

Saturday is the Fancy Pants Party hosted by Blessings in a Backpack. Entertainment by Yacht Rock from Atlanta. Funds raised go directly to the Duval County chapter of Blessings in a Backpack, which provides children on the federal free and reduced lunch program a backpack full of food each weekend during the school year so they are assured nourishment when they’re not in class.

No. 3 THE PLAYERS IS the Best Value in Golf!

THE PLAYERS Championship is the Best Value in Golf. No kidding, right in our backyard. Here are a couple of ways to minimize the cost.

Orchestrated by volunteers, upwards of 17,000 cars per day will fill these parking lots.

Why pay for parking when parking is free for fans with four or more guests in a vehicle? A new voucher must be downloaded and printed for each day, but there is no limit to the number of days guests can park for free.

On the flip side, fans not taking advantage of the “Four for Free” policy must purchase parking in advance. Those who arrive without a parking pass will be routed back to Will Call and will pay a premium of $50 per pass. Volunteers will no longer be able to sell parking passes in the lot.

THE PLAYERS will allow fans to bring in their own food in a 1 gallon clear, plastic bag where food items are also wrapped in clear wrap. This policy does not allow fans to bring in beverages but free, chilled and filtered drinking water is available in the permanent restrooms near The Patio, Taste of JAX and Wine & Dine on 9 so keep a bottle and refill it as many times as you’d like.

For each ticket purchased online, fans receive a $20 gift card to PGA TOUR Superstore (redeemable in store or at PGATOURSuperstore.com). Tickets are also for sale at 55 Publix stores throughout Northeast Florida and two locations in Georgia.

Kids have a lot of fun at THE PLAYERS! Maybe Sergio Garcia will repeat his 2008 victory this year?

Youth 18 and younger are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a ticketed adult – there is no limit. This means a family of five can attend THE PLAYERS, but only pay for the two ticketed adults, or a youth soccer team can attend with their coach and only pay for the coach’s ticket.

The Family Plan package offers additional savings just for families. For just $89, families get two adult grounds tickets, unlimited youth admission at the gate and two $10 concession vouchers. The Family Plan is also offered at 25 participating Daily’s convenience stores.

THE PLAYERS provides all career military (active duty, Reserve, military retirees and dependents) with complimentary admission to the tournament and discounted admission for veterans. To obtain vouchers for admission click here.

Play the 17^th in the Stadium Village close to the Clubhouse on the way to the 10^th tee. The PwC’s First Tee Challenge is a replica of the famed 17th hole and you can take two FREE shots at the Island Green.

No. 2 “See Best” at the Sea Best 17 Deck!

View of the 17th & 16th from the Sea Best Deck. The 18th is also visible from this, the best view at THE PLAYERS Championship.

As NBC’s Gary Koch would say, the Sea Best 17 Deck is “better than most.” It’s hard to beat the views and atmosphere around No. 17, the most iconic hole in golf; but this year, the Sea Best 17 Deck is new and you can have a better-than-ever, bird’s-eye view of the Island Green, No. 16 fairway and green as well as the 18^th tee box. The Sea Best 17 Deck is a public bleacher behind No. 17 green and features a covered deck, misters to help fans stay cool and concessions. The view is FREE but you have to pay for Sea Best Shrimp and Grits, the signature menu item of THE PLAYERS 2014.

No. 1 Visit the World Golf Hall of Fame…

With WGHOF member Dr. Charles Sifford on Opening Night of the ‘Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf.”

… to see a new permanent exhibit called “Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf.” There is no WGHOF Induction this year (now every other year) but Hall of Fame member Dr. Charles Sifford, nearly 92 years young, was present for the ribbon-cutting Grand Opening on Friday, May 2^nd. It is a whole new Hall of Fame experience with a legendary welcome walk and Major Exhibits in Shell Hall in addition to the new innovative historical exhibit. Golf’s “Highest Honor” just got a little bit higher! Only 25 miles and 30 minutes away from TPC Sawgrass, go as soon as you can either before, during, or after PLAYERS week!

The Ultimate Entertainment Guide to THE PLAYERS:

An Insider’s Look at the Tournament, From Best Food Deals to the Best Places to Be Seen

(Courtesy of THE PLAYERS Championship)

Provide your readers/viewers with a one-stop guide of everything to do at THE PLAYERS, from where to get the best food, best shade, best drinks deals and restroom locations.

Best places to eat

THE PLAYERS Championship has more to offer than your average sporting event, and there’s no better illustration of that fact than in the food selection.

New this year, TacoLu, Jacksonville’s most popular Baja Mexicana, will be featured on course at THE PLAYERS. Seating and shaded areas located between 12 green and 13 tee will give fans the chance to rest, relax and enjoy some of “The Lu’s” delicious menu items, which are always made with the freshest ingredients.
New in 2014, “Trucks on 10” features six local food trucks and is located between 10 fairway, 11 fairway and 15 green. This public venue offers flavors from local, favorite food trucks, an upgraded restroom and an open-air, centrally located Michelob ULTRA Mobile bar. Trucks on 10 will offer seating for fans and include great-tasting food from local trucks: Mama’s Food, Baby’s Badass Burgers, Corner Taco, Gourmet Aviator, Up In Smoke and BBQSuper Food.

If it’s options you’re after, The Food Court is calling your name. Located behind No. 16 green, there are plenty of choices sure to satisfy everyone in the family. Grab some classic concession favorites from the All-American Grill, or pick items from a favorite local restaurant like Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, Brucci’s Pizza or Tropical Smoothie Café. When everyone has what they’re after, stake out a shady spot with tables and chairs at The Grove and enjoy a relaxing family meal.

Best places to cool off

Need to beat the heat? All of the locations below are open to grounds ticket holders and give you a chance to take a break from the action – and the sun – while enjoying the atmosphere that is uniquely THE PLAYERS.

Stadium Village is completely tented and air-conditioned, making it the ultimate destination when you need to cool off. While you’re there, enjoy a variety of interactive activities, mobile device Wi-Fi access, luxury restrooms and a cash bar.
The Grove is an outdoor, shaded area located behind No. 17 tee. The venue includes pavers, tabled seating and an upgraded walkway from the Nicklaus Gate that will lead fans directly to the location. The Grove will include a large video board showcasing the Golf Channel and NBC broadcast so fans won’t miss any tournament action while they’re taking a break.
The Patio is located close to No. 10 tee and the 18 hospitality area and is a shaded area with tables, food and beverage for purchase. You can relax away from the heat without missing any of the action. The Patio also features permanent restroom facilities, includes the Michelob ULTRA Bar and a social media board covering THE PLAYERS Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds.

Where to be seen

Everyone who’s anyone is at THE PLAYERS – and if you’ve been at least once, you know that No. 17 is a major hub of activity. But check out these other hotspots and you’ll be sure to run into someone you know – or want to know. Just don’t forget to return to the action out on the course at some point!

New in 2014, the Michelob ULTRA Blue Room VIP Lounge is located between Stadium Village and 10 tee. This ticketed venue includes all-inclusive beverages (beer, wine, soda and water) and signature dishes from top local restaurants, air-conditioned seating and entertainment.
New in 2014, the Sea Best 17 Deck is the best spot to see golf and be seen. It’s hard to beat the views and atmosphere around No. 17, the most iconic hole in golf, but this year, thanks to the addition of the Sea Best 17 Deck, fans will have a better-than-ever, bird’s-eye view of the island green, No. 16 fairway and green as well as the 18^th tee box. The Sea Best 17 Deck is a public bleacher behind No. 17 green and features a covered deck, misters to help fans stay cool and concessions.
You’ll need to purchase an upgraded ticket to gain access to The Turn, but it’s well worth it. Located between No. 18 and No. 9, this hospitality venue gives an excellent view of both holes – either from the air-conditioned interior or the outside stadium seating.
If you have an upgraded Clubhouse ticket, don’t spend all your time indoors! Hang out on the Clubhouse Lawn and enjoy food and beverages, available for purchase, from award-winning TPC Sawgrass Nineteen. In the shadow of the beautiful 77,000 square-foot clubhouse, the lawn offers ample chairs, umbrella tables and a view of No. 18 green.

Where to see the golfers

Don’t roll your eyes – yes, we know, “Duh, on the golf course,” is the appropriate response. But where, EXACTLY? Check out these sneaky locations to get up close to the action and as personal as possible to some of the best players in the world.

True golf fans know that the Practice Area is a must-stop at THE PLAYERS. You can grab a spot up against the rope line and be thisclose to the world’s best as they hone their craft…sometimes for hours on end, not to mention the fact that players usually stop and sign autographs as players come and go. Back of the range
Located on the Clubhouse side lawn, The Terrace gives you the best of both worlds: a great spot to relax with a cash bar (with mixed drinks), tables and umbrellas, as well as a unique view of the chipping green and practice area, where you can watch players warm up and work on their games – and maybe pick up a tip or two.
Another area where players let their guard down and interact with the fans is outside the Scoring Area. Players enter the scoring area located between the Clubhouse and Stadium Village to sign their scorecards after they finish their rounds on Thursday-Sunday. This is one of the best places to hang out and collect player autographs.

Best chance for celebrity sightings

Sure, there’s Tiger, Phil, Ernie, Rickie and the rest of the gang. But THE PLAYERS has its fair share of celebrities who are big fans of the world’s best golfers, just like you. You never know who you’ll see strolling along the rope line and enjoying the action, but here are a few additional locations where celebs flock throughout the week.

Hang out near the new Jaguar Den by No. 17 tee for a glimpse of some of your favorite former Jags, coaches and Jaxson De Ville as they relax and enjoy THE PLAYERS Championship.
Don’t miss Military Appreciation Day on Wednesday on the Clubhouse Lawn, where Jake Owen will be performing. Local celebrities and TOUR players often attend the concert and mingle with the crowd, so keep your eyes peeled.
While the Patriots’ Outpost is open only to military personnel and their families, it’s not a bad idea to hang out near the facility as dignitaries and celebrities are always stopping by to spend time with the troops. And even if you don’t see someone you know, say hello to some of our local men and women in uniform – who should be recognized, even if they’re not famous.

Best beverage deals

You need to cool off, and we’ve told you where to find the best shade and A/C. But an ice-cold drink is no doubt at the top of your list. Be the first to check out these deals, and your friends will think you’re an insider.

A limited-edition THE PLAYERS acrylic tumbler, filled to the brim with THE PLAYERS Signature Drink – the Sawgrass Splash – is available wherever spirits are sold. For $10, you’ll get a 20-ounce Sawgrass Splash in a 2014 PLAYERS tumbler that features the tournament logo and a list of the past champions. The commemorative cup itself (with no beverage) is available for $5.
Newsflash: it can be warm in Florida in May. Don’t be that person in 2014 whose good time is ruined by dehydration. Drink water, lots of it. Chilled, filtered drinking water is available in the permanent restrooms near The Patio, Taste of JAX and Wine & Dine on 9; so keep that bottle and refill it as many times as you’d like as a way to stay hydrated and save money at THE PLAYERS.

Best bathrooms

Even after decades of staging a world-class golf tournament, there is always room to improve the fan experience at THE PLAYERS. After each event, the tournament undergoes an extensive critique process, and a key aspect is fan feedback through surveys and social media comments. One of the most resounding items of feedback in recent years centered on the quality of bathrooms for fans.

THE PLAYERS has added another large-scale, permanent public restroom located at Taste of JAX near 11 Green and 12 Tee, which was constructed in the fall in advance of this year’s event. The new facilities feature 11 toilets per side and will also have air conditioning, attendants and changing stations in both the men’s and women’s restrooms. As in prior years, there will be additional temporary restrooms throughout the tournament as well. This third facility complements the two that were constructed – to great fanfare – at The Patio and Wine & Dine on 9 (near No. 16 tee/No. 9 fairway) in time for the 2013 event.
No port-o-lets here. The restrooms at Stadium Village are top-of-the-line, luxury facilities that feature air conditioning, running water and bathroom attendants. Freshen up and get back in the game.
The Grove and The Patio also offer premium, structured restroom facilities, giving you one more reason to spend some time at these new locations.

Best merchandise

THE PLAYERS is already Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Beach’s ultimate fashion show, but why not add to your closet collection with a few carefully selected items that are uniquely THE PLAYERS? Since all the merchandise is fabulous, these recommendations are more about strategy than specifics.

When you first arrive at THE PLAYERS, immediately stop at the merchandise tent as you enter from the main parking lot, at the end of the Walk of Champions. Stock up on all the necessities for a day at the course – hats, sunscreen, and one or two limited-edition items with THE PLAYERS 2014 logo that might not be there by day’s end, like a commemorative 2014 PLAYERS pin flag or PLAYERS tumbler (with a list of the past champions on the back). You also want to make sure you check out the latest fashionable hats and t-shirts that may set the trend for THE PLAYERS.
Mid-day head over to Stadium Village and cool off in the A/C while browsing the 6,200 square-foot PLAYERS Shop. You can check your merchandise with an attendant and pick it up at the end of the day, so no worries about lugging around your loot.

If you’ve got a Clubhouse ticket, you’ll want to hit up the award winning, Best 100 Golf Shop at TPC Sawgrass as well as to check out everything from PLAYERS merchandise to TPC Sawgrass keepsakes.

Best views of 17

You know you’re going to spend some time – probably a lot of time – at No. 17. But where can you best experience all that this world-famous par 3 has to offer?

We can’t help but brag about the new Sea Best 17 Deck. Located behind 17 green and open to the public, this spot offers a bird’s eye view of the famous island green that simply can’t be beat.
The Benefactor is an upgraded ticket, but the view doesn’t get any better than from the second floor of this shared hospitality venue. And when you’re looking out over the 17^th tee with an ice-cold drink and a snack from Morton’s The Steakhouse, you may never want to leave.
It’s easy to find a great seat on Wednesday at No. 17, where you won’t want to miss the little-known but much-enjoyed Caddie Contest. Each year at THE PLAYERS during the Wednesday practice round, players and caddies switch roles when they arrive at the famous 17^th hole, and the caddies get the opportunity to take a swing. This is great tradition unique to THE PLAYERS and one that provides an added layer of entertainment for the fans, players and caddies alike.
An underrated spot to watch golf within the natural amphitheater near the 17^th hole is on the hill behind the 16^th green. Here you get to see players take aim at the risk/reward par 5 16^th hole and still get to watch them take on the famous island green at the 17^th.

Best views of golf NOT at 17

With all that’s going on in the new venues at THE PLAYERS, don’t forget to venture out on the golf course to really soak up the action. Here’s a quick list of sneaky spots (read: less crowded) that offer great views of this world-class event.

Elevated mounding behind 2 green provides a great place to watch players decide whether or not to go for the par 5 in two or lay-up, and then you can keep an eye on them as they head to No. 3 tee to take a shot at the par-3 green. Here’s another tip: the refreshment stand at No. 2 green/No. 3 tee has shade umbrellas in the seating area.
The 11^th hole is a fan favorite par 5 where players often go for it in two, the green is surrounded by sand and water, which provides non-stop drama and excitement. The newly enhanced bowl-shaped mounding around the green provides better views with great shade, and you’re a stone’s throw from a new permanent restroom and great dining options at the Taste of JAX.
The elevated mounding behind 10 tee provides great views of players’ tee shots, and you’re just steps away from a permanent restroom. As you walk the hole, be sure to stop at Trucks on 10 – our new food truck food court – where you can grab a snack from some great local vendors on wheels!
The par-3 13^th offers a more intimate setting than the 17^th hole, but there’s still plenty of drama and excitement. Fans directly behind the green may even see a ball or two roll through the green and end up in collection area just on the other side of the ropes from where they’re sitting. The top of the mounding behind the green also provides a nice view of players teeing off on No. 14. Additionally, you are still close enough to Tacos on 12 to take care of any and all must-have-tacos-now episodes in a timely manner.

Best family-friendly venues

THE PLAYERS is one of the best, most affordable family entertainment options going, and there’s more to a day at TPC Sawgrass than the world-class golf (although we bet a glimpse of Phil Mickelson or Rickie Fowler will make your son’s or daughter’s eyes light up). Spend some time with the kids at one of these locations where they can have fun without worrying about anyone saying, “Quiet, please.”

Returning in 2014, The Kid Zone stars the “GameTruck,” a mobile, video-game theater provided spectators with HDTVs and a wide selection of games for Xbox360, Wii, PlayStation3, as well as a GameCoach who manages the activities so parents can relax. The Kid Zone also offers snow cones from KONA ICE (for purchase), a putt-putt course, arts and crafts, face-painting and an inflatable obstacle course for the kids to blow off some steam. The Kid Zone features a restroom trailer, videoboards and a misting tent where everyone can cool down.
Experience the best of Stadium golf at Stadium Village and the PwC First Tee Challenge – a scaled version of the famous 17th hole where kids and adults alike can see just how difficult it is to reach the green. The area also includes video games, concessions, merchandise and outdoor seating – where you can rest up before returning to the tournament action.
No trip to THE PLAYERS would be complete – especially for the kids – without collecting a few autographs. Be sure to hang out in one of the “Autograph Alleys” for the best shot at snagging a prized signature from some of golf’s greatest players.

What not to bring

You’ve got sunscreen. Sunglasses. Your fashionable hat. All the things needed to make a statement and have a blast at THE PLAYERS. But what shouldn’t you bring to the golf course?

Once the tournament starts on Thursday, don’t get sent back to your car because you brought a camera. While taking photos is permitted – encouraged! – Monday through Wednesday, any budding shutterbugs will need to leave the equipment at home once the competition gets underway.
Kids (6 years and older) to a hospitality venue without a ticket. Yes, kids get in free to THE PLAYERS with a ticketed adult – but this policy applies to grounds tickets only. If you’re planning to spend some time in The Turn or The Benefactor, for example – and we hope that you do – and if your child is 6 years of age or older, they’ll also need one of these upgraded tickets to gain admission.
We’ve got plenty of places to sit and tons of shady spots with umbrella tables, but if you want bo bring your own chair or umbrella (just in case), here’s a tip for avoiding a common rookie fan mistake: leave the cases or covers for those items in your car, as those are prohibited items.

Where and how to use your cell phone

Worried about missing a call while you’re at THE PLAYERS? We have an app for that. The PGA TOUR unveiled a new cell phone policy in 2011, meaning you no longer have to worry about separation anxiety because you were forced to leave your mobile device at home. But don’t be “that guy” who reminds everyone why cell phones weren’t allowed on the course for so long and follow these tips.

Put your phone on silent.
Texting/emailing is allowed anywhere.
Use designated areas throughout the golf course when making or receiving phone calls (check the course map for “Mobile Talk Locations”).
Don’t use your mobile device for video recording at any time during the week.
Only use your mobile device to take photos Monday through Wednesday.

Best place/best strategy for getting players’ autographs

While we can’t discount the ultimate strategy for getting tons of autographs – be a cute kid and say “please” – these tactics will definitely increase your chance for success, no matter your age.

Hang out in an “autograph alleys.” Post up near the Practice Areas and the Scoring Area, as these locations are where players tend to stay until the last request is satisfied. Players are much more apt to stop and sign in these areas as opposed to when they’re out on the golf course. Throughout the week, players will only be signing autographs at the designated “Autograph Zones,” not on the golf course.
Make a statement (a good one, of course). Wear a “Phil is my Phavorite” t-shirt. Get six of your best friends to join you and shave the letters “A-K-4-E-V-E-R” into the backs of your heads. Dress up in total Ian Poulter gear and spike your hair. Just be respectful, creative and bring a Sharpie.

Best travel tips for THE PLAYERS

They say getting there is half the battle, right? Here are a few quick travel tips to make sure you arrive in style to THE PLAYERS 2014.

Pile in. Fans with four or more guests in a vehicle can park for FREE Thursday through Sunday with the “Four for Free” parking voucher. Fans can go online to https://theplayersparking.clickandpark.com (click on the “Tickets” tab) to download the voucher.
Purchase parking ahead to save time and money, parking passes can be purchased at https://theplayersparking.clickandpark.com. Those who arrive without a parking pass will be routed back to Will Call and will pay a premium of $50 per pass. Volunteers will no longer be able to sell parking passes in the lot, as officials have determined this is a main contributor to congestion and delays.

The best way to access the public parking lot is via SR-210 from Nocatee Parkway. Trust us, you’ll avoid the congestion and delays that are typical of A1A and spend more time enjoying the tournament.
If you live close by, ride your bike to the tournament and use our “bike valet” off ATP Tour Boulevard Thursday through Sunday of tournament week. A $5 donation is suggested, which benefits the North Florida MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Chapter. And even if you don’t live near TPC Sawgrass, meet up with friends at a nearby park or business and “bike-pool” to the tournament.

Filed Under: Hickory Golf, PGA TOUR Golf

Calvin Peete, Champion Player in Golf and Life…

April 30, 2015 By admin

CLICK here for VIDEO Interview with Calvin Peete (Part 1).

CLICK here for VIDEO Interview with Calvin Peete (Part 2)

Sitting on the patio at TPC Sawgrass with Calvin Peete. It could not have been a more pleasant evening or conversation.

Just last Saturday, as a volunteer for THE PLAYERS Championship, I was cleaning the portraits of the champions on Championship Way and when I got to Calvin Peete’s image it seemed a little brighter and a little more brilliant than the rest of them. It made me wonder about him and how he was doing. I didn’t recall seeing him at last year’s PLAYERS and it’s been a year-and-a-half since I interviewed him at the Farewell Gathering at the Clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass for the Journey to Olympic Golf. Sadly, I learned today of his passing. We have lost another of Golf’s Greats.

His passing brought me back to watch the above two videos one more time. Twelve minutes in total I think they are worth watching, for older and younger people alike. One minute for each of his twelve tour victories, the biggest being the 1995 PLAYERS which put him up on Championship Way with the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. At the very end of the second video I asked him an open ended question, what else would he like to share with the folks watching. He looked around for an American flag and said “God bless America.” He started the interview stating that “he was happy to be alive at age 70. My thoughts go out to his widow Pepper and his children and all I can think is “God bless Calvin Peete.”

Calvin Peete set a new record when he won the 1985 PLAYERS. Our hats off to Calvin Peete 30 years later. Photo Credit Google Images

He inspired me as a young adult in the early 80s when he won 11 of his 12 victories in a five year span, including “the major of the players,” the 1985 PLAYERS Championship. He had grit and determination, talent and a crooked arm from a fall out of a tree. He started playing golf at age 23 at Genesee Valley Golf Course in Rochester, New York, a great municipal golf course that I played many times when I lived nearby. His first year on tour was at age 32. Age and physical handicaps like a crooked arm doesn’t mean a thing to that little white ball, does it?

As I watched these video interviews I thought about the humbleness of this man and his high level of intelligence. He was a thinking man out on the golf course and outside the ropes in life. We spoke about how he was always the first player off the tee, walking ahead with his head held high no matter the order of play or the result of the tee shots. He always stayed in the moment, not getting too far ahead or too far behind in his thoughts. The most pleasant time of his life was when he was practicing and learning golf so that is what he chose to think about when he set out to beat all the other good golfers on tour. His inner strength was knowing that when he was playing his best, nobody else could beat him, like on the Sunday thirty years ago when he shot 66 to win by three strokes.

Calvin Peete with his good friend Arthur Johnson. Two balls in a cup.

He loved the game we love because of its challenge. In his words, “the ball is just sitting there saying hit me.” It was a challenge he never experienced before and one we all experience every round—how to be able to control that little white ball?”

Patriotic, above all except one thing, which he caught himself on in the interview. An always present man, with a secure and quietly confident spirit about him. Played two Ryder Cups for his country. To represent your country in the greatest sports arena in the world. There is nothing greater, except Calvin pointed out, nothing greater than to represent your God.

Amongst all the jubilation and excitement of the 44th PLAYERS nest week, there will be sadness with the absence of the 1985 Champion Calvin Peete. While I miss watching him play and compete like he did in the 80s, I will miss the really good human being. After we said what is now our last good bye on the patio, we went out to the range and Mr. Peete hit a hickory-shafted golf club for the first time in his life. he wasn’t old, he was young and getting younger.

With Calvin Peete after he first hit a hickory-shafted golf club. You can tell how excited he was by how he is holding the hickory club in this picture!

That day I was setting out on a 100-day, 14-country, 14,871-mile golfing odyssey called the “Journey to Olympic Golf,” not having any idea of what it would be like or how it would go for me. One considerate, caring, creature helped me get it started and is now on the other side of this life. He is surely alive in a wonderful paradise probably swinging with two straight arms, hitting it 30 yards further and maybe missing one or two fairways a round but still going low.

God bless America and God bless Calvin Peete

Filed Under: People in Golf

Looking for 100 New Friends in 100 Days…

April 26, 2015 By admin

PLEASE click here to make a donation to The First Tee.

Our journey in life is just that a living odyssey that changes from year-to-year, or even sometimes day-to-day. I am on a quest to raise $100,000 for The First Tee because I believe The First Tee organization best represents what the game of golf has meant to me and given to me in my life.

My older brother L.P. gave me the Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons book when I was 12 years old and inscribe it as follows: “Golf is a lot like life, the more you learn and understand about it, the easier it is to meet its challenge.” From that day on golf and life was different for me. Not only did I learn how to play golf better from reading that book, I learned that life is all about inspiration and doing your best no matter what.

I am looking for 100 new friends in the next 100 days to make a $100 donation (or any amount that you are able to make) to The First Tee. Each day I will be reliving the original “Journey to Olympic Golf” and hope to find a new friend in golf. Is that you? Please join me in giving back to the game we all love.

CLICK here to make a donation to The First Tee.

Please select ‘Andy Reistetter’s Journey to Olympic Golf’ on the drop-down menu for the question ‘What inspired you to make a gift today? This is for tracking purposes only, Andy does not receive any part of your donation or anything financially from The First Tee organization.

PLEASE click here to make a donation to The First Tee.

Thank You!

Filed Under: Journey to Olympic Golf

Jim Furyk, Passionate Golf Champion & Inspired Leader

April 19, 2015 By admin

Jim Furyk, 2015 RBC Heritage Champion. Photo Credit: Google Images

Congratulations to Jim Furyk on his 17th PGA TOUR career victory at the 2015 RBC Heritage. The veteran of 532 PGA TOUR events, with 442 cuts made and the 2003 United States Open Champion last won in 2010. That year he won the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort, the RBC Heritage in another playoff, and the TOUR Championship presented by Coca-Cola. To top off that banner season he won the FedEx Cup and was named PGA TOUR Player of the Year.

Inspired by his play on the golf course and his conduct off the golf course. I wrote the article below in April, 2010 after his win at Harbour Town Golf Links. My premise in doing so was that if we took some of the traditions, principles and leadership found in the game of golf and applied them to Corporate America we would have a better America in terms of inspirational leadership, GNP and our overall culture.

In September 2013 Jim Furyk shot a 59 in the BMW Championship at Conway Farms GC to become the sixth player in PGA TOUR history to do so. Photo Credit: Google Images

Another thought from the 2015 RBC Heritage… How about that 65-year-old Tom Watson? Hits an 8-iron on the last hole on Friday afternoon to three feet for birdie and sinks the putt to make the cut on the number. I wish the golf gods were as kind to him (and they should have been) in the 2009 Open at Turnberry. Watson has made 501 out of 617 cuts on the PGA TOUR.

Final thoughts… I would love to see Jim Furyk win the 2015 THE PLAYERS Championship… a few years ago I saw him practicing at TPC Sawgrass for the PLAYERS and wished him well, ending with that I would love to clean his Champions Mural on Championship Way as I do every year as a volunteer for the PLAYERS… and I would love to see him inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. If he is not already in he should be very close by now…

Furyk & Friends are celebrating tonight and tomorrow in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida!

Coincidentally the article is about Tom Watson and Jim Furyk. For the record Brian Davis has yet to win on the PGA TOUR.

The article from April 2010:

Jim Furyk: CORPORATE LEADERSHIP Inspired by The Game of Golf (Exclusive Series)

Jim Furyk earned two trophies on the last day of the 2010 season as he won the TOUR Championship and the FedEx Cup. Photo Credit: Google Images

The author Andy Reistetter shares his insight on how PGA TOUR players, competition and the game of golf can be utilized inside corporations to dynamically develop corporate leadership and culture. Reistetter has written two books- one on inspirational leadership called “The Approach” and the other on inspiration living called “Love, The Rest of My Life (TROML) & The Pursuit of Eternity.” Both books are available by emailing AndyReistetter@gmail.com.

Most people think of Jim Furyk as a golfer who went 2-1/2 years without a win on the PGA TOUR.

But they don’t know the Jim Furyk, the natural leader, the team player or the family man.

Jim Furyk led and did win during that 2-1/2 year personal victory hiatus on both the 2008 United States Ryder Cup team at Valhalla and the 2009 United States President’s Cup team at Harding Park.

In Furyk is a premiere example of leadership and an enveloping dynamic culture that can benefit corporations throughout the world.

He understands it is relationships first and foremost whether in one’s personal life or professional life.

Everyone knows the objective is to win or maximize corporate profit.

Without success to some degree there is no professional golfing career.

There is no company, organization or corporate entity without profit, even for “non-profits” who are also subject to the realities of a worldwide financial system.

Is valuing people the first step to having an evolving dynamic culture where natural leadership can prevail and flourish?

Where people are motivated by an inspiring example or an inspiring manner of leadership and not by fear alone?

Jim leads and people follow.

How does he do that?

He values people to the extent of being irreplaceable. He sees people as a never dying fountain of creativity, of improvement and willingness to work hard no matter what it takes to achieve success.

He is forthright, honest and of good morals.

He is and he demands sincerity- to tell the truth, the whole truth and do the right thing no matter what the circumstances are or what the consequences could be.

In the grandest of sporting gestures, Tom Watson raising the flagstick on No. 15 to enable Steve Marino to know the location of the hole in the 2009 Open at Turnberry.

The “flagstick” photograph for this exclusive series of CORPORATE LEADERSHIP Inspired by The Game of Golf is Tom Watson holding the flagstick above his head on the 15^th hole at Turnberry in the Open he almost won last year at age 59.

It was Saturday he was playing with Steve Marino who hit his ball down a gulley to the right side of the green at the difficult par-3 hole.

After going down the slope to help Marino find his ball, Tom came back up to the green and raised the flagstick as high as he could so Marino could know where the hold was located.

See beyond what seems to be…

Why did Watson do this?

Why did Watson help his competitor in the last pairing of the day while both pursued the Claret Jug and the title of “the champion golfer of the year?”

Because he is a natural leader who understands the dynamics of improving oneself and one’s golf game.

He raised that flagstick high and assisted Marino because he knew that it would raise the standard of competition.

He confidently knew that he would naturally elevate his performance to a higher level as the standards were increased even if by his own doing.

Tom didn’t need a third party to motivate him by fear to improve his golf game.

He did it naturally as the pride of the American Midwest.

As it did turn out the next day he needed someone to whisper in his ear that even a 59 year-old gets an adrenaline rush and is capable of hitting an 8-iron more than 184 yards over the green at the home hole.

Jim Furyk did the same thing at the President’s Cup late Sunday afternoon before Tiger sealed the deal for the American team.

Behind in his match and uncertain of the team outcome Furyk was inspiring in a way that nobody else save this author may have noticed.

Furyk’s competitor- the reigning Masters champion Angel Cabrera hit an awkward shot at the par-3 11^th hole.

Well left and a bit long Cabrera’s tee shot took a big bounce and then even a bigger bounce off the deck of a wooden handicap platform.

Then it rolled down a cart path ending up 50 yards from the hole and in the proverbial golfer’s “jail.”

Furyk who had the honor on the tee and hit his ball on the green marched right down to the gallery at the scene of no crime and quickly inquired about what had happened to Cabrera’s ball before even Cabrera arrived.

“Did anyone touch it or kick it?”

See beyond what seems to be…

Why did Furyk do this?

Like Watson, he did this because he knows if he goes above and beyond the rules of golfing competitions he will be challenged to a higher standard and naturally improves, thereby elevating his game to a higher performance level.

As it turned out, Cabrera took a drop on a hillside no closer to the hole and made an unbelievable three to tie Furyk on the hole.

Cabrera would go on and catch fire birdieing the next three holes and defeating Furyk in singles for only the second time in President’s Cup history.

Though Tiger would seal the deal later for the American team with a birdie on the 13^th hole before embracing United States Captain Fred Couples.

If valuing people and high moral standards like integrity and ethical behavior are the first two steps in a leadership style and culture, what are the remaining keys to producing the right dynamics in your organization?

The next key is building a team mentality even though individuals fill positions with defined roles and responsibilities in a static organization culture.

Does Jim Furyk change whether he is battling a competitor in a singles match in an international competition or playing against the field on the Copperhead golf course in the Transitions (now Valspar) event?

The answer is no- he does not change fundamentally.

He is always a team player whether in relationship to his family, caddie, equipment supplier, tournament sponsor, or most importantly a fan or patron of the game of golf.

As the situation, the competition may change he may choose a different strategy but his 1-2-3 punch is always value people, morals and ethics and being a team player always knowing there is something larger than self in this world whether at work or play.

Image if each person in your organization whether on the shop floor in the plant or in the office embraced this style of natural leadership and an evolving dynamic culture?

Jim Furyk is a master of communication.

When the topic is in his bailiwick he will speak in an open, honest and forthright manner making no excuses for poor performance or making any promises he cannot keep.

He is a stand-up guy from Pennsylvania who has found the common path to success in an uncommon way whether it is his unorthodox swing, his only dedicated swing coach in his father or as a shining example of how PGA TOUR players, their competition, and the game of golf can inspire leadership and culture in the corporate arena.

Jim Furyk knows how to reinvent, how to revitalize himself.

Clearly evident with his rise to No. 5 in the official world golf rankings after becoming the first multiple winner in 2010 with winds at the Transitions and the Verizon Heritage.

What company would not benefit from revitalization in terms of new or improved products and services?

That would attract new customers and additional revenues.

Embracing innovation and new technology while knowing that success is not only based on technology but the dynamic sequence in leadership and culture outlined in this article.

Jim Furyk did not win at Harbour Town playing hickory shafted golf clubs and feathery golf balls though he has respect for Willie the mascot’s long nosed antique golf club.

Could he have parred the 18^th hole employing a set of hickory clubs?

Undoubtedly so, but to be competitive as possible he embraces all sorts of innovation whether it is in golf equipment, how one approaches the game or how he interacts with various elements in the game of golf.

Innovation does not simply mean better technology.

It also means new and improved processes whether it is a pre-shot routine or how one communicates within an organization of 100,000 associates.

Maintaining the processes, continuously making them better will transform a company as surely as a mega-hit new product invention.

Accountability in an organization is the key to success.

But accountability in an organization with natural leadership in an evolving dynamic culture is different than what one may expect.

It is not the heavy anchor around each worker’s neck with fear as the biggest motivator.

Accountability is a learning process whereby people and the organization become introspective always learning from within.

With the right corporate attitude and personal attitude, mistakes or misfortune can be a catalyst to future successes larger than ever imagined.

Again PGA TOUR players, their competition and the game of golf are a never ending source of material to be applied to develop natural leadership and an evolving dynamic culture within any organization.

Brian Davis has yet to win in 169 PGA TOUR events after his playoff loss to Furyk at the Verizon Heritage.

He will someday soon win on the PGA TOUR.

Why?

Because one can tell he has the right “approach” to the game of golf and life.

After hitting his third shot out of the hazard and contacting a reed in his backswing, he immediately raised his right hand as if to say “I made a mistake,” knowing full well the two stroke penalty would mean an immediate personal loss.

Contrast this to the manager who makes a mistake, buries it and moves the headstone so no one will associate the mistake with his personal career.

Which entity- person or organization will learn and improve from the mistake?

Brian Davis surely will and through that dynamic process will undoubtedly raise the level of his game to that of champion in the near future.

There are countless examples of experiences like this on the PGA TOUR.

What examples are there in your organization?

Accountability is a good thing for both an organization and a person within that organization.

At the end of this dynamically evolving natural leadership style and culture is what we all desire in the first place- success.

Paradoxically it is the byproduct of the system and not the system itself.

For a golfer like Jim Furyk success is defined by 15 PGA TOUR victories, numerous Ryder and President’s Cup victories and a loving family.

For an organization success is defined by customers who are satisfied with your product and/or service and want to come back again and buy more.

It does matter how one goes about trying to achieve success for in that process, in that manner, in that way one’s success is defined even before the final tally is taken.

Jim Furyk claimed victory for the Americans at Valhalla in the 2008 Ryder Cup when he closed out Miguel Angel Jimenez on the 17^th green after four back nine birdies.

All he did was looked Jimenez in the eye and thanked him for the fierce competition.

He knew what it felt like to be in Jimenez’s shoes as he was on the other side at The Belfry in 2002 when Paul McGinley made a 10-footer to halve the match and win the Cup for the Europeans.

So leadership is experience but only if that experience is processed in an evolving dynamic manner.

For organizations that mean valuing people, practicing moral and ethical behavior in a competitive business environment, developing teamwork, communicating in several dynamic ways, having innovation in products, services and internal processes, and insuring positive learning accountability that naturally results in success.

In organizations it is easy to tell if natural leadership and an evolving dynamic culture is present- talk to the people in the organization.

In the game of golf, talk to the caddie.

Why do you think caddie Mike Cowan continues to hobble along in his early 60s to caddie for Furyk?

As a caddie for Tiger Woods when he won that historic Masters in 1997 hasn’t he seen it all on golf course where the world’s best players compete?

“Fluff” has been looping for Furyk now for over 10 years including his 2003 U.S. Open win at Olympia Fields CC.

As a member himself at Congressional CC where the 2011 U.S. Open is scheduled to be played maybe he wants to go out in style with Jim winning there?

That’s what inspirational leadership and a dynamic enveloping culture can do for your company.

Produce loyalty, dedication and the hardest of work from each one of your associates.

Forget about “incentivizing” your employees. Why not inspire them to new heights with a natural leadership style and an enveloping dynamic culture?

Look what it has done for Jim Furyk whether or not anyone has realized how many different times and in how many different ways he has won on the PGA TOUR!

Congratulations to Jim Furyk the first multiple winner on the PGA TOUR in 2010!

Andy Reistetter is a freelance golf writer and broadcast assitant. He follows the PGA TOUR volunteering and working part time for various golf broadcasting companies.

He resides in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida near the PGA TOUR headquarters and home of The PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass.

He enjoys pursuing his passion for the game of golf and everything associated with it.

He can be reached through his website www.AndyGolfTravelDiary.com or by e-mailing him to AndyReistetter@gmail.com

Filed Under: People in Golf

Memories of the 2015 Masters Tournament won by Jordan Spieth!

April 6, 2015 By admin

Heading over to Augusta on I-20 Easter Sunday morning for the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals… what a glorious sunrise!

Effie Perakis, Girls 7-8 Champion with Masters Champion Ben Crenshaw. Effie made a 30-foot putt on the 18th green to win! She jumped higher than Phil Mickelson when he won!

Toby Wilson, Boys 14-15 Champion with Chairman Payne. Toby started out badly with both drives out-of-bounds byt rallied and won the chipping and putting to become the National Champion!