Rather than perpetuate last year's thread, I started a new one.
Masters was a great weekend. It was great to see Tiger back on the course. Not sure I am down with the lengthening of some of the holes (looking at you 15). Scheffler is on fire!
Hopefully Tiger can play the PGA but looking forward to seeing him at St. Andrews in July.
As far as my own game goes, I only got out twice last year (and that's 5 times in the last 3 years if you're keeping score at home). However, I have made it my mission to play this year and already have 4.5 rounds in the books. My game needs a lot of work, and the course I joined is extremely difficult (slope of 139), but its good to get out and play.
What's everybody looking forward to this year?
just had our first child - I'd love to get out this year but if I do that will be a real blessing
Congrats, but yeah - that'll put a damper on your game.
my game wasn't any good to begin with so not much of a loss TBH
Congrats to you and your wife! Our first is coming by the end of the month. Naturally I've been playing the best golf of my life this spring. It was fun while it lasted.
The weather has been reasonably favorable up here on the Cape, so my usual Friday noon, and Saturday/Sunday morning groups started several weeks ago. Last Sunday, while everyone was watching the beginning of the Masters telecast and the course was empty, I hopped in my cart with a couple of cold ones and was able to play 18 in about 2 hours. Played more than one ball on several shots & putts, fished for some Pro-V's off the 17th and 18th greens, and was able to get home and watch the last 9 holes of the Masters. All in all, a great day.
Playing Draper Valley for the first time ever tomorrow. Seems easier than Auburn Hills (screw some of those fairways; to borrow from above: looking at you #15) but those par 3s are looonngg.
Please let us know how it is. They also aerated their greens ~ April 1. Draper Valley is a superior course to Auburn Hills. You'll like it. Its a longer course, but more open. I still like Auburn Hills as the small undulating greens are a real challenge and they roll great. I've had eagle chances on 18 multiple times.
Pain is Temporary, Chicks Dig Scars Glory is Forever, Let's Go Hokies!!
I'll definitely add my observations tomorrow when I get back. I agree completely about the auburn course, especially the greens. I absolutely love putting there. I just wish I could get from tee to green a bit more efficiently. I think I've had two 3 putts combined in my last three rounds at Auburn, and that's more an indication that I missed greens and chipped to the correct tier, than an indication of my putting skill. Fun track.
Course is in great condition in my opinion. All tee boxes but one appeared to be growing in well, and all fairways were perfect. If you like really tight lies this isn't your track. But I enjoy the extra forgiveness that the slightly fluffy lies provide (I hit behind the ball a lot). Obviously the greens aren't quite back yet from being aerated. But they were actually pretty smooth. I ended up shooting a 90 with 5 three putts, but I was happy with my score. I usually shoot 88-92, so I hit my average. The most frustrating hole was when I three putted for par on #9 after carrying the marsh, second fairway, and pond on my second shot and ended up 25 feet from the pin. Would love to have that first putt back.
I really enjoyed the course. I think I have a new favorite in the NRV for sure. Auburn is a close second but I'm definitely planning on spending more time at Draper this year.
The pin placements were cruel out there today. There were a few that were straight out of a putt putt course. Draper always has firm fast greens. The only thing I dislike is that pace of play is always 4.5-5 hours.
Agree. Some pins were insane today. I think I had two lag putts that had 4 breaks. Number 16 was like two paces off the back and two paces off the right. With no prior course knowledge or understanding of the greens versus what I was seeing, I hit a lot of shots to center of green that left very difficult putts.
Fortunately pace of play was good for us. We were supposed to go off at 8:10, ended up teeing off early at 7:45. We were done at 11:35.
after carrying the marsh, second fairway, and pond on my second shot
Thats a serious good shot. That par 5 makes u think.
I thought u couldn't put pins <10 ft from any green edge.......
Pain is Temporary, Chicks Dig Scars Glory is Forever, Let's Go Hokies!!
I don't know the rules but that pin on 16 was absolutely closer than 10 feet from two edges. Wasn't even fair lol.
There isn't a rule specifying how close to the edge of the green you can place a hole location. However, 2 paces (about 6 feet) is probably the general guideline. It really depends on how big a dick the greenskeeper is.
I'm teeing off there at 10:50 tomorrow. BCC aerated on Monday so its a good excuse to go play Draper.
You're welcome to keep any number of golf balls I'll be leaving up ahead of you. If you find any with three blue dots, keep them and I hope they treat you better than their previous owner.
The weather is finally starting to improve in Wilmington, Delaware. The golf league at work starts up next week so I've been playing every chance I get to prepare. I'm considering getting an indoor putting mat so I can practice a lot more. I'd love to get people's opinions on if they think it's worth buying or recommendations on mats they really like.
It's Time to go to Work
If you don't have one of those ball/spin/balance/marking things, spend your money on some Maxfli Tour (or Tour X) CG's at Dicks. The balls are balanced prior to marking so the putting alignment aid lines up with the center of gravity (CG). They will roll straight along that line if you strike the ball square to that line. Make what ever adjustments you need to make to hit it square every single time at a small target about 4 or 5 feet away (my cat's scratching post is the putting backstop on the rug in my office.) Works great; gives you instant, accurate feedback. I used to get a little sidespin, I don't anymore.
Regardless of what combination of fundamentals and putters works for you, just get used to making straight contact with the ball every time so when you line up the ball on the green, you'll have the confidence to know you'll putt along that line. After that, it's all about speed (which is my biggest challenge).
Going to a wedding in Wilmington next weekend and am looking to golf Friday morning. Anybody have any suggestions?
Amateur superstar and idiot extraordinaire.
I think their municipal course is famously legit. I have never been there but I have seen the NLU guys do a video or 2 there.
Well...shit. I saw "muni" and thought of the muni's I grew up around and thought not cool. The other guy got with some people down there and we're playing Beau Rivage tomorrow at 10:20. Hope it's as good as the price tag lol
Update: nice course. Little on the short side, but tough shots to be made all around. Greens were in great shape. Fast and smooth. Been playing my ass off recently then go down there and fought a damn snaphook most of the round...that was infuriating, but still a great way to waste a day leading into a wedding.
Amateur superstar and idiot extraordinaire.
I too have been battling a snaphook off the tee. Finally I give up and adjust my aim for it...then I hit it straight as an arrow. After 20 years this game still humbles me!
"War was always here. Before man was, war waited for him. The ultimate trade awaiting its ultimate practitioner.”~~Judge Holden
Most pure contact of my life was when I was battling an aggressive slice, adjusted my aim way left and bombed a drive dead straight 3 rows into a neighborhood.
I do the same at times. Pro that gave me lessons says that's when ur hands lead ur body. Sometimes a slack back rotation (ie, not enough) gets that happening. I have to work on that regularly. Having the awareness from his insight helps me a lot.
Pain is Temporary, Chicks Dig Scars Glory is Forever, Let's Go Hokies!!
I have the most trouble with this when it's cold. The combination of having on more layers and struggling to stay loose restrict body movement. Once the summer hits I won't have to worry quite so much.
It's Time to go to Work
After playing for the past few months, I'm ready for the British open. Don't think there's been a single day with wind under 15mph.
Trying to plan a golf trip this summer with my father and brother. Looking to meet up somewhere in central to eastern Kentucky, but Tennessee could be in play too. Anybody got recommendation on courses? Looking to get 3-4 rounds in.
I don't know much about Kentucky courses but I really enjoyed the Bear Trace courses when I lived in Tennessee. Not sure how far into Tennessee you would want to travel, but they're worth a look. Maybe check out the one in Crossville, I think it's called Cumberland Mountain if memory serves.
Never much cared for the crossville bear trace but Stonehenge in Crossville is a killer course that was bought by the Fairfield community so harder to get on now. The Bear Trace outside Chattanooga is excellent but if you go that far Sweetonscove is a must play (listed #12 on courses you can actually play on in one list) in South Pittsburg https://sweetenscovegolfclub.com/. Of course I am partial to the three championship courses in Tellico Village 30 miles south of Knoxville since I live on one of them https://www.tennesseegolftrip.com/golf-package.asp?deal=Tellico%20Villag... Also the River Islands course in Kodak has a killer front nine.
The LewDew, Professional Golf Bum
River Islands is a fantastic course. Its been over 20 years since I played it but, the one thing I do remember is the second "s" in islands is significant.
The course at the Lincoln Homestead State Park near Springfield has been enjoyable for me, I've aged it a few times visiting family! Front 9 is harder than the back, wide enough to be forgiving but challenging enough to make you think.
VB born, class of '14
Maybe I'll pick back up playing consistently this year. Maybe I'll also get my 3 wood fixed, anyone know how long it takes to get a club head remounted on the shaft? Is that like a do it while I'm there process or drop it off and come back
Depends on how busy they are but, I would plan on drop off/pick up.
as handy and as skilled as you are, and if the ferrule is still on the shaft, you can easily do it yourself as good or better than anyone else. it is a very basic epoxy re-glue project...clean out the hosel; clean up the shaft; re-glue. JB Kwik Weld is fine.
I probably could, is the epoxy heat sensitive, would a heat gun give enough to loosen it up or would I need a torch....maybe this is my afternoon project, I've got loads of quick weld in the garage.
Actually forget the questions I'm just gonna go for it.
Edit: Yeah this wasn't hard but pro tip/lesson learned: Wear heat resistant gloves...the clubhead gets extremely hot burnt 3 fingers pretty good.
hopefully you don't need the fingers for a little while : )
Yeah, good gloves and a heat gun. Unless you're going for that rich looking patina... Otherwise, it's not difficult. If you are looking to do the epoxy work yourself, spend the little bit extra on beads. It helps center the shaft in the hosel instead of being catawampus in there.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Did it before I knew what beads were. The shaft was already a pretty tight fit in there with a thickened epoxy eyeballing center and getting it in a vice so it wouldn't move was simple enough. I'm certainly not good enough to notice if it is off center.
I'll find out if I did a good enough job this weekend. If the ball outflies the club head I'll call it a win.
If there is a golf galaxy near you, they can turn it around pretty quickly
I just got heavy into golf for the first time this year. I've played at least a round of 9 holes for 6 weeks straight. Did my first ever 18 yesterday. Let's say it was so bad that I was amped that I got a legit double bogey on a par 3. But every time I go out i see the progress and know what I need to build on. It's so much fun, I'm mad it took until my early 30s to pick this game up
"The Big Ten is always using excuses to cancel games with us. First Wisconsin. Then Wisconsin. After that, Wisconsin. The subsequent cancellation with Wisconsin comes to mind too. Now Penn State. What's next? Wisconsin?" -HorseOnATreadmill
It's a lot of fun to see the huge strides you make over the course of the spring/summer. Nothing like it when things start to click.
It's Time to go to Work
If you haven't yet, take a single lesson, you'll be absolutely dumbfounded how much your game improves and how much more fun the game becomes. I took one like 4 years ago and I'm far from a good golfer but I feel like I can go out and enjoy myself the whole time without getting frustrated and when I have misses I can pretty much immediately diagnose what I'm doing in my swing where I used to just guess and adjust things at random.
That is absolutely on my to-do list for this summer. I've had so many people tell me to take a lesson or two. I'm thinking about doing a package or something like that to help me get the repetitions and build on the skills I learn
"The Big Ten is always using excuses to cancel games with us. First Wisconsin. Then Wisconsin. After that, Wisconsin. The subsequent cancellation with Wisconsin comes to mind too. Now Penn State. What's next? Wisconsin?" -HorseOnATreadmill
Insert "Do It!" gif here. I got a 5 lesson set w John Norton last year as a birthday gift. Man! Did I learn a ton. My game is much more solid. I still dont have time (yet) to play n practice enough. But, I'm able to push into the 80s consistently now, with low 80s on easier courses pretty consistently. I was a 90 to 96 golfer before. So. Worth. It.
Pain is Temporary, Chicks Dig Scars Glory is Forever, Let's Go Hokies!!
Shoot I just want to break 130 😂😂 I'm sold
"The Big Ten is always using excuses to cancel games with us. First Wisconsin. Then Wisconsin. After that, Wisconsin. The subsequent cancellation with Wisconsin comes to mind too. Now Penn State. What's next? Wisconsin?" -HorseOnATreadmill
If you are really interested in golf then lessons are important, and that is at every point in your career. My father would get lessons every year for him and myself when I was young. He still gets lessons for himself and he is 80. Up until probably 15 years ago he was a 3 handicap. He played in college, has played in final pairings of the WV Open with Sam Snead. You can always improve and look for something more to improve.
If you like it, go work with a pga teaching pro soon. Don't ingrate bad habits. A bad swing plane and you will hover around 100 for 25 years unless you are a superb putter. Long irons will always be a blind spot and you will have no consistency. Learn the proper - or a workable- swing plane as soon as you can.
...you will hover around 100 for 25 years unless you are a superb putter. Long irons will always be a blind spot and you will have no consistency.
Holy shit, this describes me to a T.
If you're not sure if my comment warrants a "/s", it probably does.
I will make it happen in 2022. Thankfully this is only week 7 of my golfing adventure. I'm very serious about becoming competent
"The Big Ten is always using excuses to cancel games with us. First Wisconsin. Then Wisconsin. After that, Wisconsin. The subsequent cancellation with Wisconsin comes to mind too. Now Penn State. What's next? Wisconsin?" -HorseOnATreadmill
That was me until I watched a Bobby Jones video from the 40's, iirc, and discovered that striking the ball instead of sweeping the ball off the grass was the correct impact scenario. I dropped 15 strokes almost overnight with that simple change to a more vertical swing plane and about five hours at the driving range. Lesson learned: get a pro to teach you the golf swing, not a VT football assistant coach pretending to teach a golf class during your senior year.
VTCC '86 Delta Company, Hokie in Peru, Former Naval Aviator, Former FBISA, Forever married to my VT87 girl. Go VT!
Yep. The downswing plane is the ONE thing every pro swing has in common- even Furyk and Matthew wolfe get into "that" position. That part of the swing is not art. If you don't make contact with the ball on the proper plane and shaft angle most good shots are pure luck and compensation which can't be repeated.
Yep, my constant slice disappeared overnight, and I was able to draw the ball with my irons for the first time ever just by adjusting my right foot back an inch or so. So much more satisfying seeing irons hit the ball higher, straighter and farther by striking the ball correctly with the downward stroke that takes a divot after ball contact. I don't play much anymore due to work, but knowing what swing plane produces correct contact is helpful for tuning up at the range before the rare opportunity to play.
VTCC '86 Delta Company, Hokie in Peru, Former Naval Aviator, Former FBISA, Forever married to my VT87 girl. Go VT!
Yeah this sounds somewhat familiar. I got so tired of my slice when I first started, I went to the range and I wouldn't let myself leave until I understood the swing principles enough to hit a giant hook. Once I figured out what caused severe left to right and right to left ball flight, it was a simple matter of progressively "de-exaggerating" the setup and swing until I was hitting a fade or draw pretty much on command. I usually can't hit the ball dead straight to save my life, but I can picture a shot shape and get it somewhat close to that. Usually. Lol.
I've gotten rusty due to reduced mobility in my shoulders and back (I'm working on it because I'm not old enough to be dealing with that shit yet, damn desk job) as well as less time to practice, but I can consistently shoot in that 88-92 range, which is good enough for me for now. I'd like to take a lesson one day, for the fun of it if nothing else.
lots of football alumni in blacksburg for the game this weekend. and lots are golfing today.
Fit check 👀 @Shaynegraham17 pic.twitter.com/bkUEpWpo8D— Virginia Tech Football (@HokiesFB) April 15, 2022
Unfortunately I think they are golfing at the Roanoke country club and not the 9 hole VT course lol 😆
Excited there's so much hype for spring game weekend, and the weather is beautiful
VB born, class of '14
Since I moved a little further away from my home club, guess I'm a roaming golfer this year. There was a survey done several years ago, and the magic number for minutes away from a club people would join was 27. Last year, on a good day, I was right around that number. After moving, I'm around 45 minutes away. Sucks. Had a good group too. That's just too far to get that mid-week round in, and way too far for those 715 tee times on the weekends.
I do have a course in my new home town, but it's not the best layout or in the best condition. And when I spoke to the pro a few months ago, he wasn't sure of a group that would welcome in a new guy. Well, if I can't find a group to play with on the reg, screw it. So I'll just bounce around, play at my old course with my buddies occasionally at the guest rate, hit the beach with them for the guest rate as well, and see if I can sneak out here and there to the local range. Have a few tournaments lined up as well already, so hopefully can get my fix.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
I can get to mine in 24 minutes and it's an easy 24 minutes. The nice thing about mine is play is lightning fast. You don't need an early morning round to get done in 3 hours. And 18 after work is no problem from mid-April (we are in Michigan)
Good on ya. This time of year is tight because of all of the packages rolling through. There are courses at the beach that are owned by the same group (Lighthouse, Rum Pointe, Man O' War, War Admiral) that have lowered rates for members and guests, like reciprocal with a cart fee type thing. But we can't get on down there from now thru Memorial Day. Sucks even more that next weekend there is a tournament at my old home course, so my group can't play and the others are booked solid until 3pm. By that time it's a 5+ hour round to get 15 holes in. (Beach beer rounds suck if you are teeing off after 830.)
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Wow, the tee sheet is open that far in advance? That sucks. Before I joined my club last fall, rounds were 5+ hours and I didn't enjoy them. Its one of the reasons I played so little the last 5 years. While a private club is not cheap, I can enjoy golf again.
For the packages, yeah, they get those times reserved quite a bit in advance. Then they would beat the locals down, and the members of the club down, where we couldn't make tee times but only 48 hours in advance. It puts us in a bind for 6 weeks in the spring and 4 weeks in the fall. All about the $$$$. At least, if we get a really nice October, the courses are a joy and the views are petty solid.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Didn't pick up that they were "resort" courses. Hopefully, you can get enough of a fix. I didn't realize how much I missed playing until I started back up again.
Tee times are insane everywhere near me right now- Baltimore/DC suburbs
Has anyone ever played eagles nest or the west course at Myrtle Beach national? Playing next weekend
Yes I have to both. Eagles nest is a good test. If the west course is in good shape and they haven't punched the greens lately its one of the best on the strand, IMO.
I played Eagles Nest somewhere in the early 90's. I can't remember anything about it. Sorry.
My wife takes the kids and leaves the house while I watch my Hokie games.........nuff said
Looking forward to late July...headed to Myrtle for a 2-day event at The Heritage Club. First day is 2 man scramble, and next day is a Texas Scramble; preferred drive then play your own ball in. If we get down there the day before might hop on Caledonia right next door, and we are staying on the 17th fairway at True Blue.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Bucket list trip coming next month. Myself and three buddies are taking my 5th wheel down to St Augustine to play the King & Bear, and Slammer & Squire at the WGHOF! Super stoked! Has anyone played either of these courses? Both?
"War was always here. Before man was, war waited for him. The ultimate trade awaiting its ultimate practitioner.”~~Judge Holden
I've played both. They are great resort type courses. Forgiving off the tee but well maintained and fun greens. You will enjoy. We went in peak covid (Nov 2020) so this might be different now but we stayed in Ponte Vedra at the TPC Marriot and finding an Uber to take us back from St. Augustine was a nightmare. If you are staying in St. Augustine you are probably fine.
Thank you! We are staying in a RV resort in St A.
"War was always here. Before man was, war waited for him. The ultimate trade awaiting its ultimate practitioner.”~~Judge Holden
I drive by them all the time but haven't played either. Word is they are fun courses if you play from the tees that suit your abilities. Overseed on greens is pretty much gone now so greens at least should be full Bermuda.
Oh, and our Band is playing Borrillo's Beer and Wine Garden in St Aug on May 7 if you are here that weekend.
Thank you! Unfortunately we'll be there the following weekend.
"War was always here. Before man was, war waited for him. The ultimate trade awaiting its ultimate practitioner.”~~Judge Holden
First night of league last night and it was cold - mid 40's, overcast and breezy. I was swinging more stiffly at the end of the round than the beginning. Shot a 50 with a couple of pars despite the conditions, which is the best round to date on that nine. Had 2 swings and 1 putt I'd like to have back, but I hit my irons better.
That temperature drop at the end of the round can really hurt the last couple holes. Had my first night of league play too and I actually hit the ball better than the last few rounds so I was pleased.
It's Time to go to Work
Another cold night for league - temps in the low 40's, but sunny and not as windy. Struggled off the tee and never really felt comfortable. Used my cold weather gloves, which kept my hands from getting cold, but took away a lot of the feel for the club and might have been the reason I hit the driver so poorly. Shot a 53 with very few memorable shots.
Same experience. It was 50s with 20 mph winds for me so I did not put together a good round. Rarely got off the tee box with a shot I was happy with. 7 strokes worse than last week 🤮.
It's Time to go to Work
Wednesday night at our league was blustery. But the right holes had wind at my back and lorrrd have mercy. Some of those balls haven't landed yet 💣💣
Amateur superstar and idiot extraordinaire.
Wind is howling up here today, "real feel" temps around 40, but I'm playing in our noon group anyway. If you can't play in the wind, you're not going to like playing on the Cape. You have to be able to adjust your ball flight, particularly with several water holes on the course.
Forecast was supposed to be low 60's, but I'm not sure it made it - better than the last 2 weeks by far. Par 5's killed me due to poor tee shots, second shots, etc. Hit my short irons very poorly and failed to take advantage of the drives that I did manage to put in the fairway. Bright spot was getting up and down on our second hole (18). Ended up with a 53.
https://aimsbbis.vt.edu/VTCC-Golf-22
Anyone in the NRV or willing to travel, the Corps of Cadets are starting a two man scramble tournament this year at Auburn Hills on May 6th. For more information, see link above.
Also anyone in the Roanoke area, Blue Hills is doing their May Day tournament for the second year running on May 7th. They do 6 hole scramble, 6 holes shamble and 6 best ball and last year had prizes for top two in Gross and Net.
Im playing in this. See you there!
Was tracking the best round of my life yesterday. Shot 1 over 37 on the front and was 2 over through 16 when I doubled 17 and then shanked my approach from 100 yards in on 18 and ended up doubling that too.
Ended up with 78. I have scored better but never from 6600 yards on a tough course.
Anyone in here played Cutalong? Or is a member?
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
No, but my pops has a place on the lake. I'll play it at some point I hope
Headed to the Lake in mid August, and was curious about it.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Has anyone done Bandon Dunes?
My dad is turning 60 next year, and I am trying to figure out what to do for him. That place is on his (and my) list, but it looks really difficult to get to. Would be flying out from Richmond, VA.
Also open to other recommendations for a golf trip. Other than Primland, he's done everywhere in VA basically plus Pinehurst/Pine Needles, Oakmont, Pebble Beach/Spyglass, TPC Sawgrass, Kiawah.
Never done bandon, but have heard nothing but great things. It is in the middle of nowhere and includes a bit of driving. Bandon weather can be unpredictable as well. Had a friend who went and one day it was raining sideways.
Other places to consider would be like Streamsong in Florida or Sand Dunes up in Wisconsin. They would fit a similar vibe to Bandon.
ME Class of '16 VA --> AL I'd rather be golfing.
Streamsong is having exotic worm issues right now and doing 50% off. Not kidding. Hopefully its temporary. And Sand dunes is on a 2 season out booking schedule - FYI
I have heard from the east coast it's easier to get to Ireland/Scotland than to Brandon Dunes. Just throwing that out there as food for thought.
Bandon rounds are cheaper and the flight is shorter than flying across the pond and having 5 hours of time change versus 3. You can get with a travel company and have them get tee times to set up the entire trip as well. The afternoon rounds at Bandon are cheaper because it's considered a replay no matter the course. I know guys that loved Bandon as it's all on-site and just immersed in golf. I know guys that loved the travel between courses and the local flavor in Ireland.
I've bene to Ireland, but not Bandon. If I go back to Ireland I would hop ti would be a 7 day trip at least to play all sorts of course along the coast.
And the weather...well, you are going to get an experience at both of them.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Did Bandon last fall. 100% lives up to the hype. Played all but Old Mac. Sheep Ranch is a top 5 course in America, I don't care what anyone says. Pacific Dunes is a man's course. You have to hit your ball in the air on all of them. World class practice center. Great hospitality. Lived up to all of the hype. The only negative is the drive from Eugene to Bandon. 2.5 hours solid, back roads. The drive from portland is even longer.
That's what I hear...and it makes it better if you fly with the guys you're going with. Just to be able to get there and ride along together for the entire experience. My buddy that went last November loved it. And he said he'd do that trip again in a heartbeat. (And he loves Streamsong too!)
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
We got extremely lucky with the weather. Rather mild every day. Got one spell of rain in the morning. I would do it again in a heart beat - I've done the Kohler Trip- Whistling Straits, Black Wolf Run, Erin Hills.. Bandon was better, IMO. I'm doing Sea Island this year. Good times.
Would you walk me through the travel to Bandon?
I want to go within the next year.
Sure. There is a flight from Denver and SF directly to Bandon- 15 mins away from the course one day each week on United. The issue is that it only returns to those cities on Thursdays. That is your only flight option to Bandon itself unless you go charter. Other that that - Eugene- a small but serviceable airport - is the closest. They have "enough" flights- but not unlimited options. I flew from Reagan in DC to Dallas to Eugene on American. From Eugene it's a 2.5 hour ride to Bandon. There is an interstate option for about 40 miles, but the most direct way is back 2/lane sometimes 4 lane roads. Pretty drive- not ocean front, but through the timbers. But a solid 2.5 hours. You don't need a car on the resort, but you need a car to get there. Portland has the most flight direct flight options of course, but that is a 5-5.5 hour drive to Bandon. So if you don't mind a longer drive, you can fly very easily and often direct into portland. If you want the most convenient closest airport its Eugene.
I have spent the last few days doing a ton of research and watching the trip videos from the No Laying Up guys, which I highly recommend. I called Bandon yesterday and asked about 4-5 nights for a group of 4. First they had was November 2023 and it involved changing rooms twice. I got on a list to be emailed when they open up reservations for spring 2024.
The issue is lodging more than tee times. If you want to book tee times without staying on the resort you can do so 4 weeks in advance (I think it is tighter during peak season though. Like all June tee times open on June 1st). So if you want to go sooner than 2024, you can probably find an airbnb and then make tee times when you get close to the travel date. From what I have researched you may not get every course you want when you want it, but you will likely come close, depending on the season.
Other research findings are fly into Eugene and drive, like was already said here, and use Ship Sticks. Way too many stories of people's clubs not making it as checked luggage.
I'd probably just rent clubs. The rentals are probably better than mine anyway (I took my clubs with me when I went down to Orlando and played at Bay Hill and I regretted bringing my own clubs - they were renting out nice looking TaylorMades)
How many nights did you stay and how many times did you play 36? I want to play all of the courses, but don't want to wear us out. My dad will be ~60, but in good shape aside from a nerve issue in his leg that is lingering from a few years back.
Speaking of, booked a tee time at Dunbar in Scotland for late July last night. St. Andrews was just a bit too far out of the way, but the pictures of this place look pretty nice.
Amateur superstar and idiot extraordinaire.
Just booked flights last night for a week and a half in Hawaii (Oahu) just before Thanksgiving this year, and we're going a few days early before the other side of the family convenes in a house on the beach, so I plan to play golf at least one of those days. (Might play a second day depending on family activities.)
If you could only play one golf course while you're there, what would you play, assuming that you can book a tee time ~6mo in advance? And how much would you expect to pay? Target date is 16 Nov.
(I'm looking right at you, dcwilson40!)
If you're not sure if my comment warrants a "/s", it probably does.
Kapalua plantation course on Maui was 250.00 plus club rental. That is the extreme. The other course there is 150.00. There is a course on Oahu that hosts an LPGA tourney that is less than 100 tee time, IIRC. Just to give you an idea. My Oahu recommendation is https://www.golfwaikele.com/ hands down. Great course
I have my new bag cooking.
I busted out some bag swag today. pic.twitter.com/Vrx4kTVLZg— ACC CHAMPIONS (@thekeyplay) April 20, 2022
Nice. That will be handy on Bandon. No carts, no cart paths, lots of sandhills. They do offer pull carts called "Rickshaws"- a household name on the resort.
I think they are the same carts they have at EP. That bag is made to carry though.
If you want a caddie at Bandon- which I highly recommend if you can afford it- make sure you actually call the caddie boss/stand on the phone to confirm. Online caddie reservations don't really translate there well. And caddies get booked quickly. I had a great caddie - AJ for 2 days out there. Super cool and could really read the greens. Great guy.
Do they have Golf Boards? There's a golf course on the Navy base near Kailua (which is where I think the family is staying) that offers them, and I'm almost thinking about playing there just to try them out. This might be a later in the week twilight round, though. I definitely want to play a top Oahu course, too.
If you're not sure if my comment warrants a "/s", it probably does.
They did not have these at Bandon or Kapalua. I have seen them locally around my area, though.
If I still carried, I for sure would have a set up similar to that. Nice.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Thinking about getting fitted for a new set of clubs and looking for thoughts and experiences. Anything to pay attention to? We have a nationally renown club fitter in the area that I am planning on going to.
Edit: I should add that my goal is more consistency without giving up distance. Additional distance is welcome but not a priority.
I did a Club Champion fitting last year. Ended up with Srixon ZX7s, adding 11 yards on my 6 iron distance (coming from Taylormade RocketBladez Tours). I liked the experience overall, but did not know much going in. I was gifted the fitting and the price was then taken out of the club purchase. My main recommendation is to request to only hit stock shafts. Most manufacturers have tons of great options these days so you still have a good choice. This avoids you getting fit for something more exotic that comes with a $70 upcharge per club.
Other thing, if you do a full bag fitting, consider splitting it into 2 days. I got worn out after the irons, hitting like 130 shots before landing on a head+shaft combo. Was too tired to hit the driver well so I rescheduled the rest of the fitting for the next week.
Thanks for tip on the full bag fitting. They break up the full bag fitting into two separate sessions. I plan on discussing budget with them initially, too, so that should keep me out of the exotic shafts.
Get fitted by Ping. They store your lie loft settings etc, so any store call pull them up at any time. Also get fitted for both irons and driver. May not be the same brand that suits you best.
Planning a full bag fitting to make sure my gaps are appropriate,
My two cents as a lifelong golfer and now club fitter (for my boys). Find a handicap appropriate club (forged or game improvement) that fits your eye and then try different shafts to fit your swing. The shaft is the most important aspect of getting the flight/trajectory right and of course ball speed.
at a store, you are likely to be hitting a stock 6 iron or 7 iron in a cage so you'll be guessing what your set makeup should be beyond those clubs. With my old guy swing speed/plane, any iron below a certain loft is pointless; on my recent purchase, I bought one pointless iron. I can hit my 5 iron crisp and clean but it doesn't carry any further than my 6 unless the ball is sitting up.
oh, and you may be hitting off a mat which isn't going to penalize a fat shot nearly as much as Mother Earth. If you can hit off turf for the fitting, do it.
I visited the facility and 3 of the bays are mats (indoor to outside.) The fourth was outside but I suspect its a mat, too. I am not sure if I will hit more irons or not, but that is a question I plan on asking.
Your edit...that should be what you lead with. Take your clubs, and they should get you to hit them first for a baseline. Then they will start the process. Don't get too deep into "this 6 iron is 15 yards longer..." because you'll get the clubbing squared in the near future. (Personally sometimes I hate they put numbers on the bottom because people get into the comparison between people as well as for the past....) Keep on banging that you want more consistency. And again, so what if the new 7 iron is 10 yards shorter than your old one, just hit the 6 instead! If there is a gap at the top, the new hybrids are solid. But tighten up the dispersion and you'll be a happy camper.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Thanks for reinforcing what I think my focus should be. More distance will be easier to ignore than a shorter distance than I am currently hitting today, but you're right that in most cases there will always be another club to make up that distance.
When I was playing Mizuno forged irons, I was always a club shorter. But when I was taking their money and had a better handicap, it didn't matter. We all get caught up in the 165 yard PW sometimes, but that's useless if you can't score or enjoy the rest of the game. Happy fitting.
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. @BuryHokie #ThanksFrank
Had my iron fitting today after work. Learned a lot about my swing and club design in general.
I found out my swing is pretty straight, but I am a bit inconsistent in squaring the face (both open and closed). I also tend to miss to the toe (wasn't a surprise since I had a bad case of that early in the year.
First my TM RACs from 2005-ish - I probably lost 10 yards of distance since I was playing regularly 6 or 7 years ago. Crossing the half century mark during that time probably has something to do with that. Ball speed was 106 to 107. My launch angle is too high (22 degrees for a 7 iron) and my spin rate was also too high (7000+).
I hit "Performance Improvement" 7 irons from Taylor Made, Mizuno, Callaway, Srixon (might have been less performance improvement of the lot) and Ping with standard shafts. Everything felt more lively off the clubface and ball speed went up to 112 to 116 (and distance went with it). They all felt good to me, but the Callaway had a off putting thick look behind the ball which made me feel like I need to hit with my hands forward. Out of all of them, the Ping gave the most consistent results with respect to ball speed, launch angle, spin rate and approach angle (about 46 degrees). Specifically, its the Ping G425.
Next we tried a half inch longer shaft. At first I didn't really like it as I was struggling to get the face closed, but after a few balls when we did the face striking sticker, I could get the ball centered on the club much better. The standard length shaft hits were slightly to the toe side of center and further out. Getting used to the longer shaft will just require a couple of range sessions, I think.
Lie angle was next and, other than not being able to get a good strike for the first 3 balls that got marked, revealed that a standard lie is fine.
My Driver and rest of bag fitting is Friday and at that session we'll work out whether I go 4-W or 5-W and what wedges I will use.
Also, I am tired and a bit sore. Definitely recommend splitting into 2 sessions, if you are going to get a full bag fitting unless you are used to beating 100 balls a day.
Thanks for the recommendations and I'll post another update after my second session on Friday.
Had my Driver, woods and hybrid fitting on Friday (we ran out of time for wedges, more on that below). Ended up with a Ping G425 9 degree driver with Alta CB 55 S shaft (set to 10 degrees), a Callaway Rogue ST Max D 3W with 65 S shaft and a Ping G425 3 Hybrid with a 70 S shaft (+1/2"). The irons which were fitted on Monday, are the Ping G425 4I-GW with 105 S300 shafts (+1/2"). The hybrid along with the irons are special order because of the longer shaft lengths, but I walked out with the Driver and 3W.
We ran out of time for the wedges but that gives me an opportunity to hit my PW and GW to get distances before hitting SWs and LWs. Hopefully, I'll be able to hit those off the grass, too - it was a bit mushy at the range on Friday.
It was a great (if not expensive - my set is north of $2500, the fitting fees were credited) experience. Given that I buy clubs once every decade or more, I think I can live with cost. I recommend if you can get fitted to do so. You will learn a bit about your swing and hopefully get clubs that are suited to it.
Again, thanks for all the advice and recommendations. I'll post a couple more updates when I get the irons in and have a chance to gap them and play with them. I'll also post an update when I have the wedge fitting.
Is anyone in the Shen Valley a member at Spotswood CC? Interested in maybe joining for the course and a pool for the misses, but I'm not exactly country club type usually so just curious what the overall vibe is like there.
On business travel. Played Interlochen Resort course near Boulder, CO yesterday. Got off flight, its 41 degrees and raining. Mountains to West covered in snow. Checked weather, its gonna clear. So got settled in hotel, grabbed a bite and the weather cleared near 2PM. Played 18 in 45 - 50 degree weather - That course has 3 nine hole routes to select from. Beautiful course, greens are tough with undulations and pockets for hole locations. A challenge, but they rolled great. Rented clubs, Mavriks, decent shape but grips were small so my hands overlapped too much. Had to adapt to that (causes a left pull), the club type difference and 3500 ft in elevation difference vs home. I was hitting all my irons 20-30 yards further than my clubs. That took a few holes to adapt to. I started slow as I hadn't played in a few weeks (death in the family). Ended up with a nice birdie on the 16th hole played and a 91. I've never seen this course before, so under the circumstances I was pretty stoked. Views from the course are outstanding.
Pain is Temporary, Chicks Dig Scars Glory is Forever, Let's Go Hokies!!
Access Exclusive Content and Financially Support The Key Play
Ask the Expert: Connect directly with Principal Broker Jeremy Hart
Ad via TKP sponsor Nest Realty New River Valley
Shop fresh Hokies gear at TKP sponsor Homefield.
View All Discussions » French on the Bench »
We bleed orange and maroon.
"He said give it to me Roscoe! Give it to me!" — Bill Roth
Thekeyplay.com is not affiliated with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
©2010–2022, Orange and Maroon Media, LLC.
Join the community. Registering for an account is free and easy. Registered users can participate in the forum, post and vote on comments.