Jan 30, 2011

Cleveland Mashie Buzz - Reviews, Release Date

The Cleveland Mashie has my interest in a quest for a new hybrid. Reviews of the Cleveland Mashie have been plentiful some of the better ones are at  The Hackers Paradise and GolfWRX but it's still not available. The release date looks to be Feb. 18/2011 here in Canada (Although I'll check Golf Town again this week).



























This week's PGA Merchandise Show had many raving about the Mashie and some great pics of the club and it's unique head cover are everywhere. What I like so far from what I've seen and heard about the Cleveland Mashie is the amount of available lofts and specs, five different lofts: 15.5°, 18°, 20.5°, 23°, and 26°. Something for everyone. I'm also curious to see the Retro-Raw finish. Designed to provide a rugged, bulletproof look that encourages the versatile, go-anywhere playing style for which the Mashie is designed. Thirdly a great light shaft offering from Miyazaki. The lighter Miyazaki C. Kua 59 series premium hybrid shaft dramatically reduces total club weight while preserving stiffness and stability, resulting in faster headspeed and longer carry. Looks like the price will be right at $169.99 here in Canada at Golf Town.


THP's Cleveland Mashie Hybrid Video

Jan 29, 2011

Pros Wear School Colors With Pride

The Pros are wearing their School colors at Torrey Pines today. What are your favorites?
Farmers is encouraging all the players and the fans to show their spirit by wearing their school colors when they come out to Torrey Pines for the third round. There’s an added benefit, too – at least for the pros. Farmers will award a total of $30,000 to the colleges of the three players who post the best scores on Saturday. The player with the lowest will receive $15,000 for his alma mater’s golf team while second receives $10,000 and third $5,000.


Miguel Angel Jimenez Snaps Putter Uses Lob Wedge

Miguel Angel Jimenez overcame a broken putter to shot a 65 in the second round of the Tournament of Champions in Bahrain on Friday. The 47-year-old 'Mechanic" snapped his putter in anger on the 13th but soon rolled in three successive birdies using a lob wedge. He may of wanted to revert back to the wedge today as he couldn't make any putts and fell out of the lead.

These guys are good how do you think you'd do putting with a lob wedge or have you done it before. LMK in the comments section.

Jan 28, 2011

Tigers Woods F Bomb From Out of the Bunker Video

Good ole Tiger Woods is back, shooting a 69 in his first of 2011. He was playing the easier North Course at Torrey Pines. Didn't get out the bunker the way he liked and used an F bomb. Will the F bombs continue this season. Does it bother you? LMK either in comments on Youtube or at here below.

Questions For Sligo Apparel Guy Brian Gay

If your a fan of Sligo Apparel and Brian Gay get your questions ready and Brian might answer through a video posted on Facebook later today. He's at the PGA Merchandise Show so I wonder what he'll have on. Stay tuned to Ottawa Golf Blog for further Sligo apparel reviews in the Spring.

THP got a chance to sit down with PGA superstar Brian Gay at the Sligo Booth at the PGA Merchandise Show. Check it brought to you exclusively from TheHackersParadise.com




















Press Release Sligo Hosts Gay At PGA Show

Mississauga, ONT - Sligo will play host to 3-time PGA TOUR winner and golf fashion plate Brian Gay on Friday, January 28th from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Brian will be on-hand to sign autographs, pose for photos and participate in a short Q&A session with attendees that will be videotaped for posting to the Sligo Facebook page at the conclusion of the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show.

Facebook friends of Sligo are encouraged to submit questions to Sligo in advance of the Show for a chance to have their question asked during the live Q&A. Any fan who enters a question will be automatically entered into a drawing to win an autographed version of the same shirt Brian wore on Sunday of the 2009 Heritage tournament at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

"Brian has been a major factor in our brand's skyrocketing popularity among golfers, so we are excited to play host to him at the world's largest golf trade show," stated Shawn Aucoin, Sligo Wear Inc.'s Director of Sales. "With Brian in attendance and our ability to showcase new innovative designs the golf world hasn't seen before, we are anticipating a very busy booth #6557."

To view the entire 2011 spring collection of Sligo Wear shirts, pants, shorts, outerwear, headwear and accessories visit www.sligowear.com.

Golf Digest Signs Rickie Fowler As A Playing Editor

Rickie Fowler fires a 65 on the North Course at Torrey Pines in his first round of the season. No rust there and today it's announced he's signed as a playing editor for Golf Digest. Good for all us hackers getting tips from Rickie. I might have to renew my subscription because Rickie is My Homeboy.

Press Release Golf Digest Signs Rickie Fowler As A Playing Editor Fowler Joins Exclusive Group That Includes Phil Mickelson, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer

NEW YORK - Golf Digest has announced that Rickie Fowler, 2010 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, has joined the magazine as an exclusive playing editor. Fowler will provide bylined instruction and feature content on a regular basis.

Over the past year, Fowler has contributed to Golf Digest on a number of occasions, including most recently being the subject of the "What's In My Bag" section in the January 2011 issue. In 2010, Fowler appeared on the cover of the May issue that featured his swing sequence.

"We are thrilled to have Rickie join our exclusive family of playing editors," said Jerry Tarde, chairman and editor-in-chief of Golf Digest. "Our goal in every issue is to offer our readers insight from the best and brightest in the industry and Rickie Fowler is quickly becoming one of the most influential players in the sport."

"To join Golf Digest as a playing editor and be in the same company as legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson is very cool," said Fowler.

Fowler, 22, former NCAA Player of the Year at Oklahoma State University and No. 1 ranked amateur in the world, was the first PGA Tour rookie ever to be selected as a captain's pick for the United States Ryder Cup Team in 2010. He joins an elite staff of Golf Digest playing editors that includes: Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Justin Leonard, Phil Mickelson, Arnold Palmer, Nick Price, David Toms, Annika Sorenstam and Wendy Ward.

Golf Digest is part of Condé Nast and is the largest golf publication in the world. Condé Nast, a division of Advance Publications, operates in 25 countries. In the United States, Condé Nast publishes 18 consumer magazines, two trade publications and 27 websites that garner international acclaim and unparalleled consumer engagement. For more information about Golf Digest go to www.golfdigest.com and stay connected on Twitter by following@GolfDigestMag.

Jan 27, 2011

2011 PGA Merchanise Show - Cobra and Puma Pics

Almost like being there, head on over to GolfWRX to get your Puma Golf fix. If Rickie Fowler is your homeboy you won't be disappointed great golf shoes, golf shirts, polos, sweaters, belts. The colors are all Puma distinct. If you can't be there check out the photos from GolfWRX below. And remember Puma isn't just great apparel designs. Check out their S3 driver, fairway woods and irons. Look for reviews to come in the Spring of all the Puma gear here at Ottawa Golf Blog. The Hackers Paradise as well has some great coverage of the Puma-Cobra presence.




























Yahoo Fantasy Golf Picks - 2011 Farmers Insurance Open

Man Yahoo Fantasy golf is tough who would of though Jhonattan Vega would of won the Bob Hope last week at his second PGA Tour event. Though about him as a pick in one of my pools(where you have to pick a Nike golfer) he was definitely not on my radar. I'm going to pick a little different this week with the tour heading to the North and South courses at Torrey Pines. Tiger and Phil's debut this year.

My Foursome  

A-List  
Tiger Woods - Even though this is his first event of the season he'll be ready he know these greens and course by heart. Definitely a top 3   

Bench - Lucas Glover - Yes I'm not putting Phil or DJ in this spot because I don't think they'll content this week. I'm going out on a limb worth Glover who has a pretty good record here(T9 in ‘10, T3 in ‘09, MDF in ‘08, T4 in ‘06). Plus he'll tee it up on the easier North course on Friday which is where I'll insert him.

B-List  
 Rickie Fowler - California kid will be in the hunt come Sunday. Determined to win could be Torrey.  

Ryuji Imada - Can't beat this guys record here will put him in Thursday to take advantage of the easier North course.

Bench  
Bill Haas -Didn't win last week but I'm going to ride his success this year.  

Justin Rose - So so record here but has been playing some good golf lately.  

C-List  
 Fredrik Jacobson - Not much of a record here but has been playing some good golf two top 35s. Plays North course on Thursday. He's in!

Bench - Boo Weekley - Boo is playing great can he play well on a course he hasn't. I say hell ya!

Jan 25, 2011

PGA Merchandise Show - Who I'll Be Following

Golf Apparel - PGA Merchandise Show

One year I'll make it to the PGA Merchandise Show as an independent blogger but unfortunately I'll be doing my FT gig and will only be dreaming of sunny Orlando while I'm curled up in my favorite sweater by a warm fireplace here in Ottawa. Thinking of all those cool designs being scrutinized at the show.

This year I will be following through various social media outlets as usual (Twitter, Facebook etc.) Golf apparel leaders will be launching some significant campaigns at the show this year. So far more than 200 golf apparel related companies are utilizing the show to showcase their latest golf shirts, polos, pants, belts, footwear and accessories. It will be the mecca for all the Golf Fashion designs you peruse.

Here's a few of my favorites (Companies, writers, etc.) to follow on Twitter and Facebook to get the inside scoop on all the top names in golf fashion. Remember the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show runs from Jan. 27-29, in Orlando, Fla.

Travis Mathew - Just recently bought my first TM golf shirt (a belt from TM might be my next purchase) and it will be great to see their new designs for 2011. These lads from California are always great to follow on Twitter right now they're setting up their booth equipped with a ping pong table and some great wheels.

Kikkor Golf - Kikkor Golf's first time at the PGA Merchandise Show should be great exposure for this Canadian company run by James Lepp. Got the chance to review one of their golf shoes last year. I'm excited to see this Canadian company make a splash with their new golf shoe designs for 2011. Follow them on Twitter and Facebook to get your Kikkor Golf fix.

Puma Golf - Since Puma Golf signed Rickie Fowler Puma apparel has been at the front of the line when it comes to innovation and style. I know alot of what will be coming out from Puma from my contacts here in Canada but I'm still curious to see their layout at the show.

Iliac Golf - I'm curious to see their presence this year after signing Zach Johnson and David Duval to wear their apparel. This year’s line includes their Luxury Hybrid Golf Shirts, Hydroskin Outerwear, Merino Wool Socks, Italian Stretch Cotton Web and Leather Belts, Recoil Stretch Sweater and Dormy Series Pullovers.

TRUE linkswear - Another first timer to the Merchandise Show. Will be great to follow their arrival and the exposure they'll get for their unique style of golf shoes. Look later in the year for a review of one of their designs. Follow their tweets from the show here. Company co-founder and PGA TOUR winner Ryan Moore will be at the TRUE booth throughout the day on Friday, signing autographs from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Sunice Golf - Before doing a review last year of one of their pullovers I really didn't know a lot about this Canadian company and their golf presence. I'm very curious to see how they're received at this years show. Having been chosen as an official Licensed Product Partner for the 2011 and 2012 PGA Championship as well as the 2012 Ryder Cup is big. Canadian-based Sunice® was also selected by the LPGA to design, manufacture and provide the waterproof outerwear that will be worn by the 2011 and 2013 U.S. Solheim Cup teams. Sunice is also a licensee of the PGA Tour and their TPC network of clubs.

The Hackers Paradise has some great coverage of the Sunice booth. Check it out.

Quagmire Golf - Glad to see some more Canadian exposure for the guys at Quagmire Golf. They're unique take on golf apparel will be great to follow on their Twitter feed and Facebook.


Continuing their quest to add a dose of unrepentant fun to all things golf, co-founders Geoff Tait and Bobby Pasternak are at it again with a collection unlike anything else on the market. This now includes retro tie-dye and splatter paint pattern tops, luxe layering pieces and ColorFusion polos and t-shirts that change color according to temperature. The latter have been burning up the blogosphere since first announced last Fall and have already been called "cooler than a Canadian cold snap."

"We've been totally amped by the response to our Spring collection, so launching a new line for Fall was a no-brainer," says Tait. "People really dig that no matter the season, we're giving them something that grabs attention on the shop floor and pushes boundaries without going over the edge."

Adults will dig new polos, t-shirts, jackets, hoodies, shorts, dresses, belts and lids, while kiddos will be so money rocking ColorFusion tops and plaid bottoms as they head to the tee or first day of school. To keep everyone feeling fresh, dry and protected from UV and wrinkles, a number of pieces include Quagmire's Gud N' Dri performance technology.

"With the great support we've received from accounts in the U.S. and Canada, we needed to produce an additional line to keep up with demand," adds Pasternak. "The emphasis is on fresh new fabrics and patterns that keep people stylin' year round. Now we're psyched to get to Orlando, show off the new pieces, see our friends and make some noise."

Quagmire is rocked by celebs and Tour pros worldwide who embody the brand's "Not Fit for the Fairway" motto, including Joe Affrunti, Karen Stupples and Brennan Webb. Check out www.quagmiregolf.com.

Be sure and check out the Khaki Crusader - aka Sean Hotchkiss and follow him on Twitter to get the scoop on golf fashion at the show. He'll also be emcee at several of the stage programs and will be offering daily presentations on the latest trends, performance fabrics and mainstream styles influencing golf fashion retail.

Jan 24, 2011

Anna Nordqvist Will Play Cobra Clubs

In a great signing by the newly formed Cobra-PUMA Golf union. Anna Nordqvist will not only be wearing Puma golf lady designs (golf shirts, sweater, etc) but she'll be using an almost complete bag of Cobra golf clubs including the new S3 driver and S3 fairway wood.



























Press Release

What's in Anna Nordqvist's golf bag? Now it's Cobra clubs. Cobra Golf announced today that Swedish-born pro Anna Nordqvist, 23, will play with Cobra Golf equipment as she enters her third year on the LPGA Tour. A PUMA Golf-sponsored athlete since her rookie season in 2009 (for footwear and apparel), Nordqvist joins Ian Poulter, Johan Edfors, Lexi Thompson, Jason Gore, and an expanding team playing Cobra clubs.

"Anna's performance and presence on the course make her an ideal Tour ambassador for Cobra, and her signing demonstrates our focus and expansion in the women's market," says Brian Zender, Senior Vice President and General Manager of COBRA-PUMA GOLF. "She's a rising young star with a promising future ahead as a professional golfer, and we're thrilled to have her representing Cobra Golf."

"I'm really excited to be involved with this great brand," says Nordqvist. "Cobra is well-known for its innovation, technology and performance. I chose to play Cobra equipment because I'm convinced that it will help me perform better and catapult my game to the next level."

Here's what's in Anna's Cobra bag:

S3 9.5° Driver with Mitsubishi Bassarra Hawk 53g Regular flex shaft

S3 Fwy 15° with Graphite Design DI 6S shaft

Baffler Rail 3/H with Aldila NV 75S shaft

S2 Forged 4-PW with Nippon 1130 R shafts


As part of the expanded partnership agreement, Nordqvist will be prominently featured in future COBRA-PUMA GOLF marketing campaigns, and at consumer and trade events. Currently ranked No. 14 in the world, Nordqvist followed up her spectacular rookie season in 2009 by earning $442,088.50 in 2010 in just 21 events – placing her 24th among all players. She won twice on the LPGA Tour in 2009, including the McDonald's LPGA Championship — in her fifth start as a professional. Nordqvist's second victory came at the LPGA's season-ending Tour Championship. She was also awarded the Ryder Cup Wales Rookie of the Year for 2009 at the Ladies European Tour's end-of-year awards ceremony and was a key member of the European Solheim Cup Team. In 2010, she ranked in the Top 20 in Rounds Under Par, Birdies and Putts Per Green. Nordqvist also had two Top 10 finishes on the Ladies European Tour in 2010.

Growing up in Eskilstuna, Sweden, Nordqvist was involved in many different sports from an early age and shared an athletic interest with her brothers and parents. She began playing golf at age 13 because she claims she didn't want to be the worst golfer in her family. That desire quickly led to a burning passion. She eventually attended Arizona State University, where she helped lead the golf team for 2½ years before leaving to pursue her dream of playing professional golf. The six-foot-tall star now resides in Orlando.



























Sunice Re-signs J.B. Holmes

Nice to see Sunice, Canada's No. 1 outerwear brand, re-sign PGA TOUR star J.B. Holmes to an endorsement contract for 2011. Although he has yet to tee it up this year (he's in the field this week at Torrey Pines) he's a young guy who's usually always in the hunt and will give the Sunice brand great exposure. Got a chance last year to do a review of their Olie Superlite Pullover great stuff highly recommend.




























Press Release

Holmes-a loyal Sunice® endorser who has worn the company's product since 2008-wears the Sunice® Silver Polo Collection, Sunice GORE-TEX® Outerwear and an assortment of Sunice's® layering pieces-including vests, sweaters and lifestyle items.

"We expect J.B. to have a great year and are optimistic that his standing on the PGA TOUR will continue to climb," says Mark Fletcher, President of Sunice®. "We wish him all the best for the season and we know we will have J.B. looking stylish on the course and, most importantly, feeling confident and comfortable in his apparel.

Holmes-who has two PGA TOUR victories, both at the FBR Open in Phoenix (2006 and 2008)-enjoyed a career season in 2010. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Campbellsville, Ky., native finished 31st on the PGA TOUR money list with a career-high $2,386,248 thanks to 24 cuts made in 26 starts, three top-10 finishes (including one second and one third) and 12 top-25s. The long-hitting Holmes finished fifth in driving distance with a 307.2-yard average and led the TOUR by finishing 138-under par on par-5 holes.

Holmes also was instrumental in helping Team USA defeat Team Europe in the 2008 Ryder Cup Matches at Valhalla Golf Club in his native Kentucky. He finished the matches 2-0-1 for 2.5 points. In 2005, while a University of Kentucky standout, Holmes also played in the Walker Cup and Palmer Cup.

"I'm very proud of my relationship with Sunice®," says Holmes, whose 2008 FBR Open win came in his third start after signing his first endorsement contract with Sunice®. "There are many fine golf apparel companies out there, but Sunice's® golfwear is absolutely superior technology-wise to anything else on the market, it truly helps me remain incredibly comfortable throughout tournaments no matter the weather and it's also the best-looking product out there."

Sunice®. founded in 1976 in Alberta, Canada as a skiwear brand, successfully transcended its technical outerwear capabilities into the golf market in the early 1990s as the golf industry gravitated towards designing sport-specific garments that truly helped enhance the game. Thus, it's no surprise Sunice® -owned and run by Montreal, Canada-based Fletcher Leisure Group Inc., a company with 42 years of golf industry experience-meets the demands of the most discerning golfer.

Committed to delivering top-quality actionwear, Sunice® is owned by The Fletcher Leisure Group of Canada. Sunice® is a performance-enhancing golf and ski outerwear brand that uses advanced technologies, fabrics and manufacturing methods. Sunice®, a longtime expert and leader in the technical outerwear industry, is dedicated to a unique concept of science and style. This is done by creating innovative designs, using durable construction, and blending fashion-forward styling while using the latest in technical specialty fabric. Fletcher Leisure Group, based in Montreal, Quebec, is a company with 42 years of golf industry experience marketing multiple brands in Canada and the United States.

It's A Bird It's A Plane No It's Johnnie Vegas

Who's that guy smashing that Nike ball around the Palmer course. He's sporting those awesome Nike polos too must be.....Tiger......no it's Jhonattan Vegas. Winning in his second PGA Tour start. Wasn't great for any of my Fantasy Leagues but you have to like this kid and the shot she pulled off to win. Here's some slow motion swing videos from the final round of the Bob Hope Classic.

Jhonattan Vegas Slow Motion Swing 2011 Bob Hope Classic

WITB: Jhonattan Vegas at Bob Hope Classic

DRIVER: Nike VR Pro (8.5°) with a nVentix Nunchuck shaft
FAIRWAY WOOD: Nike VR Pro prototype (15°) with a nVentix Nunchuck shaft
HYBRID: Nike VR Pro (19°) with a nVentix Nunchuck Hybrid shaft
IRONS: Nike VR Pro Blades (3-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts
WEDGES: Nike VR (53°, 59°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts
PUTTER: Scotty Cameron for Titleist Newport SLT T10 prototype
BALL: Nike ONE Tour D

What did you think of the bright orange Nike golf shirt Jhonattan Vegas was wearing on Sunday. Yeh! or Neh!

Jan 22, 2011

Padraig Harrington DQ Video - 2011 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship

LMK what you think of the latest DQ in the World of Golf. Padraig Harrington was disqualified from the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship prior to his second round for signing an incorrect scorecard following his opening round on Thursday. Check out the video of the infraction(Rule 20-3a) and Padraig's reaction. Any good comments I may just shoot you a prize from my vault.
"On the seventh green, Padraig replaced his ball and as he began to remove his marker, his finger was seen on TV to brush the ball, causing it to move," said European Tour Senior Referee, Andy McFee. "The movement of the ball during the specific act of replacing it is covered by Rule 20-3a and there is no penalty to this movement, but the ball must be replaced. Because the ball was not replaced, there is a breach of Rule 20-3a, the penalty for which is two strokes. As this penalty was not included in the score for hole seven, Padraig was disqualified for a breach of Rule 6-6d, signing for the wrong score." Harrington said: "I was aware I hit the ball picking up my coin. I looked down at the time and was pretty sure it had just oscillated and had not moved, so I continued on. ... If I'd called a referee over it would have been pointless because if he'd asked me where my ball was I'd have said it was there. As far as I was concerned it didn't move."

Jan 20, 2011

SeeMore Introduces DB4x Mallet

I loved the look of SeeMore's new DB4x mallet putter. When I first saw the pictures posted on the GolfWRX forum I like the combination mallet/plumbers neck. Now comes the official release from SeeMore. The DB4x and the rest of the CS Gunmetal series are available January 2011 and retail for $295.

























The SeeMore Putter Company for 2011 expands its highly successful CS gunmetal series by introducing the DB4x mallet. “With the introduction of the DB4x, the beautiful milled 2011 flagship CS Gunmetal series is perfectly rounded out to include 2 of our classic SeeMore RST designs (mFGP and mFGP2), and 2 new hosel designs (DB4 and DB4x). SeeMore now offers our proprietary and proven precision alignment system in a range of putters that meets every golfers eye,” stated Jim Grundberg, SeeMore’s co-owner along with Jason Pouliot.

The DB4x is 100% precision milled carbon steel with a proprietary multi-layer black gunmetal finish for striking and lasting beauty. The new DB4x is milled in the USA and features SeeMore’s new RifleScope 2 (RST2) technology, which offers the key benefits of SeeMore’s original RifleScope Technology (RST) in a hosel style putter.

The RST2 alignment system is housed on the top of the hosel vs. the original RST system, which is found on the top heel section of the putter. The 2 white lines on top of the hosel are milled perfectly parallel to the face of the putter, creating a perfect "gun sight" effect where the golfer is assured of being square to the intended target line when the white lines are visible and the signature red dot is hidden. SeeMore putters essentially offer a 4-way reference point for the golfer to know they are ready to make a perfect stroke.

Jan 19, 2011

Yahoo Fantasy Golf Picks - 2011 Bob Hope Classic

The 5 round Bob Hope Classic starts today. Played over 4 courses this tournament will be a grind due to the longer rounds played with amateur partners. But who can complain, the weather looks amazing for all the days (wish I was there). For those playing the Sony Open last week not much time between tournaments so that's why I look for a guy with experience at this venue to win this year. Look for guys who hit lots of greens and putt as well, lots of birdies will have to be made to win. Par will seem like a bogey.
 
My Foursome  

A-List  
Charley Hoffman - I like what I saw from Hoffman in Hawaii except for one round. Like his combination of GIR% and putting plus he's won here before. Comfort!   

Bench - Matt Kuchar - This guy is a top 10 magnet and hasn't let up this year. Pulling off a T2 last year here. He can win this week hands down. 

B-List  
 Chad Campbell - Chad has a good GIR% and knows how to win here.  

DJ Trahan - Missed cut last week but great record here(no missed cuts since win here)has him on my team.
 
Bench  
Bill Haas -Last years winner always seems to make the cut. Hits it long and straight, great GIR%.  

Bubba Watson - Can make lots of birdies/eagles would love to improve on his T2 last year.  

C-List  
 Ryan Moore - A guy that can go low and make lots of birdies. First event of the season with his new sponsor Adams Golf.  Look for him to come out pin hunting.

Bench - Weir - Has something to prove even if he won't admit it. Four top 10s here including a win. If he plays from the fairway there's no better player with the wedges. First event of the season will get him in play in the second or third round.

Jan 18, 2011

Rickie Fowler Plays Some Motocross Golf

Rickie Fowler plays out of the sand with his motocross bike. Nice putt for par. Check out Puma Golf's updated website.

To celebrate being named 2010 PGA rookie of the year, PUMA decided to helped Rickie Fowler finally combine his two passions in life: golf and motocross. The result? An awesome day on the course, some amazing shots and one exhausted caddy. Special thanks to Eagle Creek Golf Course in Naples for letting Rickie hit the course. He shot a 70 by the way.

Jan 17, 2011

Jan 16, 2011

PUMA Golf Kicks Off 2011 With A Bang

Looks like Puma Golf's new website is live. Official launch on January 18th proves to be pretty cool. Puma Golf will be launching the new website featuring a motocross video of PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, Rickie Fowler. Being a big Rickie Fowler fan I'll be checking it out hope you do to.


Quagmire Golf Signs Tag Ridings

Quagmire Golf continues to make a splash in the apparel market inking PGA Tour pro Tag Ridings to a contract. Rick Young at Score Golf @ broke the news today on Twitter. Tag noted for his length off the tee will wear Quagmire designs this season and according to Quagmire is sporting them this weekend at the Sony Open.

Tag is doing great this week at the Sony Open and could get a Quagmire victory early in the season. Make sure you tune in for the coverage today.

PGA Tour Pro Tag Ridings has signed with Quagmire Golf will be wearing their designs this season.

Scratch Golf Signs David Duval

Nice to see Scratch Golf sign former #1 David Duval to an endorsement contract. After losing Ryan Moore and most recently LPGA pro Paige Mackenzie. Duval is a solid veteran presence Tour and will give Scratch great exposure as Duval tries to resurrect his golf career. Not only will Duval be playing Scratch clubs but his golf bag and hat will be sporting Scratch Golf logos.

"David Duval is one of the best players of his generation and we are excited that he has decided to become a part of our company," said Ari Techner, president of Scratch Golf. "David has won championships all over the world and has an enormous following in the golf industry. We think he is a fantastic addition to our Tour staff."

"I am extremely excited to join the Scratch Golf family," said Duval. "I put their clubs in play last season and they really made a difference in my game. In addition to playing the clubs, I look forward to working with the team at Scratch to develop some new products and grow the brand in the coming years."
Duval with his Skull & Crossbones Scratch irons (also Iliac golf shirt)

























Jan 15, 2011

SeeMore Putter Tour Pics - Seemore DB-4x, ONEcs, SB-2

When you look out the window and it's snowing and you need a golf fix. GolfWRX forum is one of my favorite bookmarks to fight the winter blahs. Reid, aka pitbull808 over at GolfWRX.COM posted some great photos of some SeeMore putters. If you frequent this blog you know I'm a big lover of my SeeMore putters and their designs. If you want a sneak peak of what SeeMore has to offer now and in the future check out the thread here. They've got pictures of the Black Si4 putter that I'm presently testing. Pictures of a Black Si1 and Si3 as well. The black finish looks to be a new finish for these putters this year. Here's a few prototypes making the rounds at the 2011 Sony Open putting green this week.

SeeMore DB-4x
SeeMore ONEcs
SeeMore SB-2
And here's some scoop on Zach Johnson's SeeMore putter.
......If you check out the Tuesday pics, there's also a new putter that just came out yesterday and is first seen anywhere here at GolfWRX. Jason unboxed it as it was flown from the factory to him to show at the Sony. He said the production would be in Carbon and he's waiting to get a black one made for Zach to test out.

Also..neat bit of info I picked up. The putter Zach Johnson is using currently is not the one he won the Masters with. I guess he wore out the old one so Seemore made a new one for him. Thing is..Zach's putter head is extremely light. They had to shave down the sole to get it to 315grams.
Zach Johnson w/ SeeMore Putter and Iliac golf shirt



























Jan 14, 2011

Who Knew Ben Crane Was So Funny?

He seems like your normal PGA Golf Pro behind the facade is a very funny guy. For the first time, Ben Crane reveals how he prepares for a round of golf. His methods may seem extreme, but after watching this you may find yourself doing the same. Shhhhhhh. Visit bencranegolf.com Directed by SAMM

Jan 12, 2011

Yahoo Fantasy Golf Picks - 2011 Sony Open

Last weeks picks were how do you say bad. Stricker was the only one that came through but couldn't pull off a top 3 at Kapalua. Els, Hoffman, and Bubba all were disappointments. This weeks Sony Open proves to be better although it looks like the weather will be a little wet and nasty. Look for players who hit fairways and greens and scramble well to contend this week.

A-List
 Jim Furyk - hasn't played in a few year but has a solid record here. Straight shooter that plays well in tough conditions.

Bench
KJ Choi - first start of the season always plays well here with a win. A bulldog if the weather turns nasty.


B-List
Steve Stricker - solid last week would love a win early. If he doesn't win it will at least be a top 10 finish.


Justin Rose- Looked better last week after a poor first round. Should do well here.



Bench
Robert Allenby - consistent player that has been playing great down under. Good wind player



Tim Clark- tough conditions he'll win this week. Good track record here he last two years.

C-List
Charles Howell III - loves Hawaii hasn't missed a cut enough said.



Bench
Zach Johnson - a great putter and has one win here. I was on the fence with this one as his injury(toe) still has to be hurting. Good grinder if the weather gets bad.


Jan 11, 2011

Golf Apparel Sightings

I figured something was up last week when @ hinted on his blog:

 . . notice anything different about Jim Furyk in this interview on Golf Channel last night? Hmmmmmm.




























Hey is that an RBC logo on Furyk's polo shirt.
Next day it became official not only did Furyk sign with RBC but Ernie Els and Matt Kuchar were signed as well.


"This is about presence," said Jim Little, chief brand and communications officer. "We found such a great demand for these golfers by our employees and our clients that it made sense to increase our relationships." In addition to sporting logos on golf shirts and carrying RBC bags, the players will make appearances on behalf of the bank, golfing with stakeholders throughout the year. Little said all three of the new players will be key in helping the bank grow its brand internationally, pointing out, for example, how big Ernie Els is in Asia.

Great news for the RBC Canadian Open with these players pretty much a guarantee to play this year at the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver July 21-24 and hopefully years to come. Would love to see Els tee it up closer to home.

Looks like Bob is hinting that RBC might have more to come in their golf involvement. Stay tuned.

Not a big surprise Nike Golf announced today the signing of PGA Tour school graduate Joseph Bramlett. The Stanford alum will follow in his idols (Tiger Woods) footsteps. Joseph will be making his professional debut as a Nike Golf athlete when he tees it up in the first round of the PGA Tour’s Sony Open in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday. It will be interesting to see what polos and other apparel he'll be wearing out of the Nike Golf Tour Collection as well as what clubs he'll have in his bag and if they differ from what NG Nation has posted. Jospeh Bramlett sporting a nice Nike Golf sweater some warm fleece was needed during the 2010 PGA Tour Q-School.


Even though Zach Johnson toe was out of order and more people were talking about his cut out shoe. He toughed it out at Kapalua (T23) sporting some great apparel from Iliac Golf. I can see why Zach ditched Dunning and went with a smaller company in Iliac. Not such a bad thing. If you look at their 2011 Spring Catalog you have to be impressed with their designs as well as the detail and fabrics that Iliac uses from their hats and headcovers down to their sweaters, polos and golf shirts.

Zach Johnson sporting a Iliac golf shirt, pants and belt.


























Canadian golf apparel company Quagmire Golf  announced today on Twitter that they've signed Tour rookie Joe Affrunti.

PGA tour debut for Joe Affrunti at the Sony this week! Quagmire Golfs newest addition to the Tour roster. More to be announced this week!
From what I've seen of Joe he'll have no problem pulling off the Quagmire look. Hopefully we get some apparel shots (polo shirt, golf shirt, etc) of Joe up at GolfWRX or another forum Ottawa Golf frequents.

Looks like we'll see more pros in Quagmire golf shirts this season from the Twitter post. Stay tuned for Ottawa Golf Blog's review of Quagmire's ColorFusion polo golf shirts soon.



























Jan 10, 2011

Byrd Still Is The Word

Byrd is the Word was the headline I wrote in my post dating back to last October when Jonathan Byrd won with an amazing ace in a three-way playoff at the Justin Timberlake Shriners for Children Hospital Open tournament. Byrd seems to have a thing for playoffs lately (Two wins in playoffs in a row) and for getting lots of birdies (T3 at Kapalua). Although he only needed a par to beat Robert Garrigus on the second hole of a playoff at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions on Sunday.

Byrd is a golfer who exudes cool, calm and collectiveness. Sunday at Kapalua he seemed in a zone, out hitting his Mizuno irons around the golf course making some birdies all with little fanfare . Byrd is as non descriptive as they come in his Polo golf shirt and khaki pants. But that's ok now he knows where he'll be next year come the first week in January. Hitting his Mizunos for birdies. See ya next year

Jonathan Byrd’s WITB for the 2011 Hyundai Tournament of Champions:
  • Driver: TaylorMade Burner SuperFast TP (10.5°) with a UST Mamiya ProForce V2 86X shaft 
  • Fairway Wood: Mizuno MX700 (15°) with a UST Mamiya ProForce V2 86X shaft 
  • Hybrid: Mizuno MP CLK (17°) with a UST Mamiya V2 Hyrbid 89 X shaft 
  • Irons: Mizuno MP-62 (3-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold X100 shafts 
  • Wedges: Nike Victory Red Forged (56°, 60°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold X100 shafts 
  • Putter: Scotty Cameron Studio Select Newport Tour prototype 
  • Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

Jan 8, 2011

SeeMore Putters | Black Si4

The FedEx driver dropped off another SeeMore putter the other day. The new SeeMore Si4 RST2 Model Putter. This past season I gamed a SeeMore Si1 for the entire season and putting was the most consistent part of my game. For me the RST technology works and I've enjoyed the putter designs SeeMore keeps on making. So I'm intrigued about how the Black Satin Si4 new RST2 technology, which offers the key benefits of SeeMore’s original RifleScope Technology (RST) will work in a classic hosel style blade. Stay tuned for the review.
Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Putter Zone already has the Si4 as one of its Power Picks: Best Buy Putters for 2011. At $180 USD I can already see why.

Jan 7, 2011

Can't Wait to Play Amen Corner

I was this close to buying Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 over the holidays, glad I didn't. News out this week that EA Sports will be releasing Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 12: The Masters March 29, 2011.
For the first time in the history of this award-winning sports franchise, players are able to step onto the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, experience the rich history and tradition of the Masters Tournament and begin their own journey to capture the most sought-after prize in professional golf -- the Green Jacket.
This game looks to have incredible detail, showing Augusta National in all its splendor. Check out the realism with new player Bubba Watson. His Travis Mathew polo shirt is spot on authentic looking.

Key additions: A new caddie feature, called Career Mode – where one can play his way from the amateur ranks through the Nationwide Tour and onto the PGA Tour – and the added voices of Jim Nantz and David Feherty from CBS. Can't wait to play as Rickie Fowler and his Sunday orange golf shirt and pants at Augusta no less. My family has a Wii here's a few special details from the game specifically for the Wii.

Stay in Balance – For the first time, get into a stance utilizing Wii Balance Board gameplay integration. Designed to promote golfer balance, players can earn “Balance Points” to activate a power shot.

WiiMotionPlus – Experience a true-to-life golf swing and have the ability to work the ball with precise draw and fade capabilities with the WiiMotionPlus integration.  

Augusta Fly Over of Amen Corner from EA's Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 12: The Masters

Bubba Watson Hits Driver Off The Deck - Shot of the Day

If you missed Bubba Watson's awesome driver off the deck on #18 at Kapalua today then you missed a thing of beauty. Bubba known for always shaping the ball puled off a great shot that involved about 50 yards of slice. Good thing PGA Tour posted the video. Check it out, Bubba canned the eagle putt.

Jan 6, 2011

New Golf Fashion Trend - Bubba Rocking Some Suspenders

So who noticed Bubba Watson's golf shirt at the long drive competition at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions tournament from Kapalua, Hawaii yesterday. It was hard not to notice his Travis Mathew golf shirt with suspenders. During the competition Bubba made mention of the golf shirt numerous times. I normally love the Travis Mathew look but the suspenders not so much. Apparently they are not even real suspenders as Bubba used Twitter to straighten out fellow tour player

@ those were fake suspenders! That's fancy. What are you calling that look? I didn't think anyone could make hillbilly look cool.
Marty Hackel Mr Style from Golf Digest even got into the act tweeting:

@: Strongest fashion statement today : Bubba Watson with that great Travis Matthew shirt. Heck I thought they were real suspenders !





















So what do you think? A new fashion trend from Travis Mathew - Suspender golf polo shirt or Hillbilly attire.





















TM Burner SuperFast 2.0 Debuts At Kapalua

So much hype with the Taylormade R11 driver lately you have to like the other driver Taylormade plans on launching February 4th. You can't alter the settings of the Burner SuperFast 2.0 like the R11 but that doesn't matter. The new TaylorMade Burner SuperFast 2.0 driver has a great look and designs that make this driver begged to be smashed. At 279 Grams it's the Lightest TaylorMade Driver Ever to Promote Faster Swing Speed and More Distance. Up to Five Yards Longer than the First-Generation Burner SuperFast Driver.




This week the Burner SuperFast 2.0 will make it's debut at the 2011 Hyundai Tournament of Champions in the bags of Jason Day and Camilo Villegas.

Camilo Villegas bag picture coutesy of GolfWRX.com



Jan 5, 2011

Yahoo Fantasy Golf Picks - Hyundai Tournament of Champions

It's hard to believe I'm having a hard time focusing on my Yahoo Fantasy Golf picks for this weeks tournament. World Junior Hockey is on TSN Canada taking on the Russians. Canada is up 2-0 after one period. I'll take this time to tell you a bit about my Fantasy golf picks for this weeks tournament The Hyundai Tournament of Champions at the Plantation Course - Kapalua Resort -Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii. Really wish I was there lots of wind to hopefully help my drives and wide fairways as well. Big large greens are good to.

My Foursome:

A List Players

Ernie Els - loves playing here with 6 top 10s (1 Win). Ernie will be in contention this week with his all around consistent play. Won three weeks ago.

Bench

Charley Hoffman- second time here, plays well in the wind, good all around stats (Good driver of the ball, good putter) Well rested I guess considering he's a new Father.

B List Players

Stuart Appleby - Glad to be back this three time winner has experience look for that to shine through with a good showing. Aussies always play well in the wind.

Bubba Watson - First timer just  a hunch he'll do well with his length and the wide fairways at Kapalua. Well rested his attitude will be well suited of the course.



Bench


Steve Stricker - 2 top tens here. A consistent player that won't put up large numbers. Great putter on Kapalua's large greens.

Tim Clark- Not a big hitter but like Stricker is consistent and won't make to many mistakes.


C List Players

Adam Scott - Loves Kapalua 3 top 10s here. Aussies play well in the wind. He'll be in the hunt come Sunday.


Bench
Francesco Molinari - no history here as this is his first time at Kapalua. Plays all over the world and should excel on this type of course.

Karaoke at Kapalua

Ian Poulter Twitter Video - Please Be Warned-

Good thing we have Ian Poulter to Tweet these great tidbits from the world of the PGA Tour. Pros Ryan Palmer and Ben Crane attempt some karaoke at a local bar while getting ready for the Hyundai Tournament of Champions. Please watch in horror and see why PGA pros should really just stick to golf. A few to many or just really bad singers. You be the judge.

G•Mac Sporting A Srixon Look

All the speculation has finally ended in a press release from Srixon Golf. Graeme McDowell has signed with Srixon, check out the photo he posted from his Twitter account. His golf shirt and attire looks the same but here’s whats new in the bag:

Srixon® irons, Cleveland®wedges and Srixon® balls. He will also wear a Srixon® hat and glove and carry a Srixon® bag.



I’ve always like the look and designs of Srixon clubs it will be interesting to see how Graeme does initially especially after breaking through last year and doing so well with Callaway clubs.

Fantasy Golf Makes Winter Bearable

For those of us who love playing golf and are Winter bound here in Canada all huddled in our fleece toques, sweaters and long johns. What do you do to feed the craving for golf?

For me there’s only so much indoor golf and putting practice in my basement I can do to feed my golf craving. I’ve arranged my golf shirts, shoes and polos way to many times already since I hit my last shot the end of October. Let’s not discuss arranging my excess golf balls or cleaning my clubs.

The PGA Tour starts up again Thursday and part of my golf void is filled by my participation in various Fantasy Golf Leagues and pools. What better way to follow your favorite pros then trying to beat various other crazed golfers at Fantasy Golf. At this present moment I’m involved in 2 Fantasy Golf Pools at Yahoo. Another run by Go For the Green Fantasy Golf Pools is a fun $$$ Fantasy League that can still signed up for the cut off has been extended til tomorrow (Wed.) at 6pm. The Hackers Paradise also has a pool running this year with some great prizes a Custom Putter, Wedge & GPS. All Prizes in the 2011 THP Fantasy Golf League! Should be a blast.

So now watching golf takes on a new level. I really don’t care if Graeme McDowell has changed his clubs from Callaway to Srixon and Bubba Watson will be wearing Travis Mathew golf polo shirts. All I care about is when I pick them I want them to perform well for my Fantasy Golf Teams.