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In the Press Box: Locke looks like an All Star
By Lloyd Jones
CONWAY — The last time Jeff Locke lost a baseball game there was still snow on the ground in parts of the Mount Washington Valley.
The talented left-handed pitcher has gone two months without a loss. That lone blemish came April 7 on his first start of this season for the Pittsburgh Pirates (41-28, fourth best record in baseball). At the time Locke was listed as the team's fifth starter, having claimed what might have been the last roster spot to break Spring Training just days earlier by beating out friend Kyle McPherson.
The two have certainly taken different paths since leaving Florida at the end of March. McPherson headed to Triple-A affiliate Indianapolis where he is 0-1 with an ERA of 19.29 and has spent three stints on the disabled list.
Locke, the son of Pam and Alan of Redstone, has quickly become a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and one of the aces of the staff. The Redstone Rocket is 6-1 with an ERA of 2.19 — now sixth best in all of baseball, National and American League combined.
He's also the last man standing in terms of the starting rotation as the four starters who broke camp ahead of him on the depth chart — AJ Burnett, Wandy Rodriguez and James McDonald — are all on the disabled list, while Jonathan Sanchez, the team's No. 4 starter out of Florida, was released after four horrible starts in April.
Locke was once again locked in Friday night as he was actually moved up a day in the rotation with Burnett going on the shelf with a partially torn calf muscle. The Kennett High grad faced the Los Angeles Dodgers, who had handed him his lone loss April 7 in LA. The second time around was only a charm for Locke this time as he baffled the boys from the West Coast. Locke needed just 75 pitches to go through seven innings while scattering only two hits (a lead-off bunt single by Yasiel Puig to open the game and a single by Mark Ellis in the second inning) and did not allow a batter to reach second base while striking out five and walking only one. He left the game with a 2-0 lead and the Bucs went on to prevail 3-0.
Locke actually had one less hit than the Dodgers. He collected his first base knock of the season when he singled to center to lead off the bottom of the fourth inning.
Locke has had six starts this season in which he hasn't allowed a run. No other pitcher in baseball can say that. Six pitchers have had four such outings: Jorge De La Rosa, Kershaw, Hiroki Kuroda, Paul Maholm, Justin Masterson and Shelby Miller.
He's allowed three or fewer earned runs in each of his past 11 starts and in 12 of 14 overall.
The start, Locke's 14th of the season, drew rave reviews.
"It was perhaps his best performance," Pittsburgh manager Clint Hurdle told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. "He came to pitch. It looked effortless. He just made pitches the entire seven innings."
"What he showed you today was the ability to make an adjustment within four days and then take it into a game and compete very, very well," Hurdle said of Locke to Post-Gazette.
"Locke was great tonight," Pirates closer Jason Grilli said on the Pirates website. "An unbelievable performance. Sweet."
"(Locke) commanded three pitches pretty well and he pitched in a lot," Trey Hillman, bench coach for the Dodgers, said. "The fastball and the changeup were good and he kept us honest with the breaking ball all night."
Locke, who is garnering All Star buzz, trails only Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers, 1.84); Matt Harvey (Mets, 2.04); and Adam Wainwright (Cardinals, 2.18) for the National League ERA lead. His 2.19 ERA is sixth best in the Major Leagues.
A 2006 Kennett High graduate, Locke is 6-1 on the season in 14 starts. This season, he has pitched 82 1/3 innings; allowed 58 hits; 20 earned runs; 5 home runs; walked 36; and struck out 60 while holding opponents to a .205 batting average.
He has allowed just one home run in his last 11 starts spanning 67 innings.
Locke, who hasn't allowed more than three runs in a game since May 4, was actually the first baseball highlight on ESPN's SportsCenter on Friday. The word "All Star" appeared on the screen and were used to describe Locke's teammate Andrew McCutchen, who drove in the Pirates first two runs with a third inning single. Then "Rising Star" appeared on the screen referring to Locke.
"The Rising Star you may not know is Jeff Locke, who is 6-1 and hasn't lost since April 7 against these Dodgers," anchor Neil Everett said. "He was locked in Friday night and hasn't allowed an earned run in four of his last six starts."
Locke has become one of the biggest additions to fantasy baseball rosters in the past month. RotoWorld offered this for fantasy advice Saturday: "Locke racked up five strikeouts in the impressive outing and needed just 75 pitches to cruise through seven innings. He's been nothing short of tremendous this season, posting a 6-1 record, 2.19 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 60/36 K/BB ratio in 82 1/3 innings. While he's unlikely to maintain this pace, he needs to be owned and active in all formats until he shows signs of cooling down. He'll take on the Reds in Cincinnati on Wednesday."
Locke is scheduled to start Wednesday against the Reds at 7:10 p.m. He'll be opposed by former Red Sox Bronson Arroyo (6-5, 3.27 ERA).
Pitching before a sold-out PNC crowd of 36,878 on Friday, Locke was "The Loch Ness Monster" his teammates have affectionately named him as he gobbled up Dodger after Dodger.
After Puig led off the game with a bunt single just past the diving Locke, the left-hander got Nick Punto to ground into a 6-4-3 (short to second to first base) double play and ended the inning getting Adrian Gonzalez to ground out to second.
In the top of the second, Locke got Hanley Ramirez to fly out to right; allowed a Mark Ellis single to center; got Andre Ethier to fly out to right; and struck out AJ Ellis swinging.
In the top of the third, Jerry Hairston Jr. grounded out to short; Stephen Fife grounded out to second; and Puig grounded out to second.
In the top of the fourth, with the Pirates leading 2-0, Punto walked — he was the last Dodger to reach base against Locke; Gonzalez grounded into a fielder's choice at first with Punto out at second; and Ramirez grounded into another 6-4-3 double play.
In the top of the fifth, Locke stuck out Mark Ellis looking; got Ethier to ground out to first; and struck out AJ Ellis swinging.
In the top of the sixth, Hairston flied out to left; Luiz Cruz, pin hitting for Fife, grounded out to short; and Puig struck out looking.
In the top of the seventh, Locke struck out Punto looking; got Gonzalez to line out to second; and had Ramirez fly out to right.
Locke has 18 strikeouts in his past three starts after getting 16 over five outings in April and 26 in six starts in May. Manager Hurdle says there's a reason for the jump in Ks — Locke's willingness to challenge hitters on the inside part of the plate.
"When you can use the inside part of the plate, that's when you go from being OK to average and then to above-average and then to elite," Hurdle said.
CONWAY — The last time Jeff Locke lost a baseball game there was still snow on the ground in parts of the Mount Washington Valley.
The talented left-handed pitcher has gone two months without a loss. That lone blemish came April 7 on his first start of this season for the Pittsburgh Pirates (41-28, fourth best record in baseball). At the time Locke was listed as the team's fifth starter, having claimed what might have been the last roster spot to break Spring Training just days earlier by beating out friend Kyle McPherson.
The two have certainly taken different paths since leaving Florida at the end of March. McPherson headed to Triple-A affiliate Indianapolis where he is 0-1 with an ERA of 19.29 and has spent three stints on the disabled list.
Locke, the son of Pam and Alan of Redstone, has quickly become a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and one of the aces of the staff. The Redstone Rocket is 6-1 with an ERA of 2.19 — now sixth best in all of baseball, National and American League combined.
He's also the last man standing in terms of the starting rotation as the four starters who broke camp ahead of him on the depth chart — AJ Burnett, Wandy Rodriguez and James McDonald — are all on the disabled list, while Jonathan Sanchez, the team's No. 4 starter out of Florida, was released after four horrible starts in April.
Locke was once again locked in Friday night as he was actually moved up a day in the rotation with Burnett going on the shelf with a partially torn calf muscle. The Kennett High grad faced the Los Angeles Dodgers, who had handed him his lone loss April 7 in LA. The second time around was only a charm for Locke this time as he baffled the boys from the West Coast. Locke needed just 75 pitches to go through seven innings while scattering only two hits (a lead-off bunt single by Yasiel Puig to open the game and a single by Mark Ellis in the second inning) and did not allow a batter to reach second base while striking out five and walking only one. He left the game with a 2-0 lead and the Bucs went on to prevail 3-0.
Locke actually had one less hit than the Dodgers. He collected his first base knock of the season when he singled to center to lead off the bottom of the fourth inning.
Locke has had six starts this season in which he hasn't allowed a run. No other pitcher in baseball can say that. Six pitchers have had four such outings: Jorge De La Rosa, Kershaw, Hiroki Kuroda, Paul Maholm, Justin Masterson and Shelby Miller.
He's allowed three or fewer earned runs in each of his past 11 starts and in 12 of 14 overall.
The start, Locke's 14th of the season, drew rave reviews.
"It was perhaps his best performance," Pittsburgh manager Clint Hurdle told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. "He came to pitch. It looked effortless. He just made pitches the entire seven innings."
"What he showed you today was the ability to make an adjustment within four days and then take it into a game and compete very, very well," Hurdle said of Locke to Post-Gazette.
"Locke was great tonight," Pirates closer Jason Grilli said on the Pirates website. "An unbelievable performance. Sweet."
"(Locke) commanded three pitches pretty well and he pitched in a lot," Trey Hillman, bench coach for the Dodgers, said. "The fastball and the changeup were good and he kept us honest with the breaking ball all night."
Locke, who is garnering All Star buzz, trails only Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers, 1.84); Matt Harvey (Mets, 2.04); and Adam Wainwright (Cardinals, 2.18) for the National League ERA lead. His 2.19 ERA is sixth best in the Major Leagues.
A 2006 Kennett High graduate, Locke is 6-1 on the season in 14 starts. This season, he has pitched 82 1/3 innings; allowed 58 hits; 20 earned runs; 5 home runs; walked 36; and struck out 60 while holding opponents to a .205 batting average.
He has allowed just one home run in his last 11 starts spanning 67 innings.
Locke, who hasn't allowed more than three runs in a game since May 4, was actually the first baseball highlight on ESPN's SportsCenter on Friday. The word "All Star" appeared on the screen and were used to describe Locke's teammate Andrew McCutchen, who drove in the Pirates first two runs with a third inning single. Then "Rising Star" appeared on the screen referring to Locke.
"The Rising Star you may not know is Jeff Locke, who is 6-1 and hasn't lost since April 7 against these Dodgers," anchor Neil Everett said. "He was locked in Friday night and hasn't allowed an earned run in four of his last six starts."
Locke has become one of the biggest additions to fantasy baseball rosters in the past month. RotoWorld offered this for fantasy advice Saturday: "Locke racked up five strikeouts in the impressive outing and needed just 75 pitches to cruise through seven innings. He's been nothing short of tremendous this season, posting a 6-1 record, 2.19 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 60/36 K/BB ratio in 82 1/3 innings. While he's unlikely to maintain this pace, he needs to be owned and active in all formats until he shows signs of cooling down. He'll take on the Reds in Cincinnati on Wednesday."
Locke is scheduled to start Wednesday against the Reds at 7:10 p.m. He'll be opposed by former Red Sox Bronson Arroyo (6-5, 3.27 ERA).
Pitching before a sold-out PNC crowd of 36,878 on Friday, Locke was "The Loch Ness Monster" his teammates have affectionately named him as he gobbled up Dodger after Dodger.
After Puig led off the game with a bunt single just past the diving Locke, the left-hander got Nick Punto to ground into a 6-4-3 (short to second to first base) double play and ended the inning getting Adrian Gonzalez to ground out to second.
In the top of the second, Locke got Hanley Ramirez to fly out to right; allowed a Mark Ellis single to center; got Andre Ethier to fly out to right; and struck out AJ Ellis swinging.
In the top of the third, Jerry Hairston Jr. grounded out to short; Stephen Fife grounded out to second; and Puig grounded out to second.
In the top of the fourth, with the Pirates leading 2-0, Punto walked — he was the last Dodger to reach base against Locke; Gonzalez grounded into a fielder's choice at first with Punto out at second; and Ramirez grounded into another 6-4-3 double play.
In the top of the fifth, Locke stuck out Mark Ellis looking; got Ethier to ground out to first; and struck out AJ Ellis swinging.
In the top of the sixth, Hairston flied out to left; Luiz Cruz, pin hitting for Fife, grounded out to short; and Puig struck out looking.
In the top of the seventh, Locke struck out Punto looking; got Gonzalez to line out to second; and had Ramirez fly out to right.
Locke has 18 strikeouts in his past three starts after getting 16 over five outings in April and 26 in six starts in May. Manager Hurdle says there's a reason for the jump in Ks — Locke's willingness to challenge hitters on the inside part of the plate.
"When you can use the inside part of the plate, that's when you go from being OK to average and then to above-average and then to elite," Hurdle said.
Last Updated on Monday, 17 June 2013 06:24
Hits: 118
History, wicker and snapper soup
“I think the U.S.Open historically has been very difficult. They say they’re trying to identify the best player. I’ve felt they’re always trying to identify the person who drives the ball the best.” — Tiger Woods
•••
I was a bit disappointed when the USGA chose Merion Golf Course for the 2013 U.S. Open. This is the centennial anniversary of Francis Ouimet’s victory in 1913, at The Country Club, in Brookline, Mass., over Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, the two premier players at that time. Ouimet’s victory brought golf in America to the masses and showed that the game was not exclusive to the upper crust of society. Though I had hoped for a repeat at The Country Club, this year’s site, Merion in Ardmore, Penn. (outside of Philadelphia), is a venue that can boast a long and significant history in the game of golf and for U.S. Opens.
Merion was designed by Scottish immigrant, Hugh Wilson and opened in 1912. Wilson spent seven months abroad studying courses for his design. Two existing elements of his original design are the deep pot bunkers and wicker baskets that adorn the top of the flag sticks. Chick Evans, the noted amateur, referred to the bunkers as the “whiteface of Merion” and the name stuck. This was in 1916.
There are two different schools of thought as to how the wicker baskets became part of Merion history. Some say that Wilson saw baskets topping the flagsticks at a course outside of London and he incorporated them into the Merion legacy. The other story holds that shepherds had baskets attached to their staffs where they would store their lunch so that animals would not get at the food. The pins with baskets are collected every evening because each basket is valued at about $1000. Most golfers use the typical pin’s flag to determine wind direction. Wicker does not allow for this. Furthermore, Merion does not have any yardage markers to assist golfers. Members and guests are not allowed to use any type of rangefinder to help with distance.
Merion has hosted 18 USGA events throughout its glorious history. It is where Bobby Jones completed his “Grand Slam” by winning the 1930 U.S. Amateur. In 1971, Lee Trevino defeated Jack Nicklaus in an 18 hole playoff. But what is best remembered about the playoff is Trevino tossing a rubber snake towards Nicklaus on the first tee prior to teeing off. Trevino had the snake in his bag to demonstrate how thick the rough was earlier in the week.
Sports fans identify certain teams, events, and individuals through famous photographs. College football has the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame; hockey has Bobby Orr scoring the winning goal for the Bruins' 1972 Stanley Cup win; baseball has Carlton Fisk willing his homerun to stay fair in 1975. In golf, the picture of Ben Hogan hitting a one iron to force a playoff in the U.S. Open in 1950 is one of the most recognized images. The site of that beautiful swing and follow through is the U.S. Open at Merion. Today a plaque is located at the spot of the famous shot, and players try to emulate the recognizable form exhibited by Hogan. Hogan did win that 1950 Open, defeating Lloyd Mangrum and George Fazio in an 18-hole playoff. What is even more amazing is that 16 months earlier Hogan was in a serious car accident. This win was his first time back to competitive golf.
Merion is a relatively short course by today’s standards, measuring less than 7,000 yards, but it will prove to be a worthy test. With the fast greens being guarded by the pot bunkers and rough that will be deep and thick, the test will be a challenge for all the competitors. When rounds are completed, players and spectators can adjourn for a cup of Snapper Soup.
Golf courses and the regional dishes provided to the players and spectators are as much a part of the experience as the golf and history. The Masters has cheese pimento sandwiches, the Olympic Club has a hamburger shaped like a sausage and served on a hot dog bun. Ginger snaps are served at the Seminole Club. This week, the fare will be Snapper Soup made from … you guessed it, Snapping Turtle. I’ll take the Philly Cheese Steak!
The USGA chooses tournament sites that provide challenging courses-places where shot making, tough conditions, and mental toughness are a pre- requisite for the players. Merion will be a wonderful test for the best players in the game and will provide the spectators with some great theatre. Maybe we will witness more of the history that enhances the U.S. Open.
Club Notes
• Omni Mount Washington Resort: The Mount Washington is featuring a Dad's Day special on Father's Day, June 16: free golf for dads, with the purchase of an an accompanying round. The Mount Washington is feturing a golf and lunch special Monday through Thursday through June 27: ply the beautiful 18-hole Mount Washington course and enjoy lunch at the Grille for just $60. Tee times may be scheduled three days ina dvance. For tee times, call 278-GOLF or visit www.brettonwoods.com/golf. Ask about the new preferred golfer card.
• Indian Mound Golf Course: The Lumpa Golf Tournament was held at the Ossipee 18 but was reduced to nine holes due to the weather. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Jason Joubert, Pat Kittle, and Jim Machowski. Long Drive for the Ladies was Ginny Wright. Front 9 winners were the team of Todd Frechette, Jesse Talbot, Brian Frechette, and Matt. Mixed team winners were Bayard Kennett, Pat Kittle, Mark Patterson, and Cam Kittle. Women’s winners were L. Hoyt, A. Jacques, K. Peterson, and B. Campbell. The On the Links traveling league saw the Crushers and Sht Birds both shoot 3 under at Maplewood GC. This week they will be at Mt. Washington. In the Rivers Edge league the team of Laura Ames, Bob Cyr, Rick Tibbetts, and Jackie Rivers took the top spot. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Laura Ames and Trish Picard.
• Wentworth Golf Course: A quota was the format for the Red Fox League in week 5. The Puzzlers took the top spot with 3 teams, Bedazzlers, Sunsetters, and Darth Vaders tying for second. Individually Cam James and Kim Dougherty were the long drive winners. Closest-to-the-pin honors go out to Bob Hotarek and Kim Dougherty. The Conway Rec. Tournament was held on Sunday. Taking the top spot for the ladies was the team of Joanne Shaw, Lisa Warren, Precilla Green, and Kathy McKennzie. The mixed team winners were George Pullan, Sherri Grames, Don and Laurel Ekberg. The men’s winning team consisted of Willy Tracy, Kyle Taylor, Ken Donabedian, and Mike Clemens. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Mike Deyak and George Pullan. Long drive winners were Bryan Dries and Sherry Grammes. Upcoming events are the MWV Ski Team Tournament on June 21 and the Spring-4 Ball on June 23. Kevin’s clinics have become so popular on Thursday mornings, that he is now offering them on Monday evenings at 5:30 p.m. Congratulations to LouAnne Cellana for her par on the 15th hole.
• Eagle Mountain Golf Course: The action is tightening in the Don Ho league. While the Divot Kings are still in first place at -29, the Chip Shots and GB Carrier are closing in at -27, with the A-Team at -26. Russ Miller won closest-to-the-pin honors this week. Long drive winners were Ginny Wright, Mary Hansel, Tim Jackson, and Fred Fallen. June is “Women’s Golf Month” at the Eagle. Greens fees for the ladies will be $10 all month. On Sunday, June 16, a free clinic is being offered by PGA Pro Bob McGraw at 1 p.m.All are welcome. Throughout the summer clinics are available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. The cost is $20 and will cover the fundamentals needed to be successful with putting, chipping, full swing with irons, hybrids, and woods.
• North Conway Golf Course: The weather uncertainty caused delay for Champ of the Month competition, to be completed this Saturday and Sunday. In the same category the Taylor Made Demo Day will be re-scheduled at a later date. A Rules Clinic will be presented by NHGA rules chairman, John Jelly, in the near future. This will be a great benefit to all golfers. On Sunday, June 23, the New Hampshire Women’s Golf Association will take over the course. They will be hosting a mixed event at the North Conway 18. A shotgun start is scheduled for both the morning and afternoon.
• Province Lake Golf Course: The third annual Men’s Match Play Competition is taking shape. Registration for this event is now being held, register by June 16. Divisions will be established based upon a player’s handicap and a Match Play Bracket will be created foe each division after regular season play. Wednesday is Senior Day at Province Lake. If you are 62 and over 18 holes walking is $30 and with a cart $40. Advanced tee times are required and this is valid between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. This is limited to the first 20 to book.
19th Hole
In 1994, PGA Pro David Ogrin, made this comment about the rough at Oakmont CC, the sit of that year’s Open; “Trying to find a ball in this rough is like finding a crouton at the bottom of a salad.” This will be true again this year. U.S. Open courses are purposely set up to challenge the best players. Merion will be a great test. Enjoy the weekend and let Dad play and watch golf!
•••
Joe Soraghan may be reached at
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Last Updated on Thursday, 13 June 2013 04:21
Hits: 173
Golf: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
“The reason a golf pro tells you to keep your head down, is so you can’t see him laughing.” — Comedienne Phyllis Diller
This past weekend, I took a road trip out to New York to visit my daughter. Accompanying me was my brother Dennis, who not only wanted to see his niece, but was excited about playing a “pro quality” golf course, the En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott, N.Y. It was here the PGA played the B.C. Open tournament. Now, it is a regular stop for the Champions Tour as the site of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open.
The course is owned by the county and is open to the public. Greens fees are very reasonable: $58 on the weekend, with a cart included. I’m not going to bore you with a travelogue -that would be like inviting you to the house to see pictures of my vacation. Rather, I’d like to share what I view is great about the game of golf, what is bad about it, and what I think might be keeping folks from involving themselves in this pastime.
• The Good: When we arrived and checked in with the pro shop we were treated as if we were members. Staff was helpful, told us the course was in prime condition, and gave us a couple of hints on how to avoid a big number on the course. We asked if we were paired with anyone. They replied that we “could be paired but at this time you’re going out alone.” The course was everything we had hoped. The tee boxes were better than most greens. The fairways allowed you to hit from almost perfect lies. The rough would challenge the most accomplished players and punish for errant shots. The bunkers were plentiful, with beautiful sand, raked to perfection. Finally, the greens were the smoothest and fastest I have ever putted. We were told that they were running about 11 on the “stimpmeter.”
The starter gave us hints about the course and some key holes. Dennis bombed a drive down the middle of the first and mine was acceptable.
The next four hours was just pure joy-playing an exceptionally beautiful golf course, with great weather and conditions. We took all of it in and marveled at the championship tees and how different the course would play for the pros. We played well, hit some great shots and vowed to come back again. Oh, did I mention we were paired with another twosome?
• The Bad: The starter asked us if we would mind playing with two other guys. We replied “no problem.” In horse racing, when you are reading the racing form, there are times when a horse just jumps out at you and you just know you are going to the window. This is referred to as a “Dead Crab” or, a “no-brainer”. When I met the two playing companions, I knew it was a “Dead Crab.” After the introductions, we stepped back and watched them. They beat the ball through the rough, bunkers, and greens but would not pick up. Yes, they did show some signs of having the ability to hit a ball, but it was long and tedious watching them try to extricate from trouble. One player made an 11 on the first hole and his comment was, “I always take 8 even if I make 10.” We didn’t get angry and let it affect our games. Frankly, it allowed us an opportunity to take in this beautiful course.
• The Ugly: We had been waiting on the group ahead of us most of the day, so the bad golf we were witnessing had been tolerable. As the round progressed, the “Ugly” side of golf set in. Our playing partners decided to abandon golf etiquette. They were talking and moving while hitting. I was told to putt from 4 yards while the player was lining up his 20 foot putt! We waited to hit on the tee because one guy said, “I’m feeling strong and don’t want to hit into them.” He then proceeded to pop one up into the rough about 190 yards. Finally, on the 18th hole, one player hit into a creek that ran along the fairway. He took a drop, didn’t like it, and used a “foot wedge” to get the lie he wanted. Meanwhile, the other hit into the tree on the right, hit his next shot to about 10 yards from the green, and drove his cart almost to the front edge of the green. Dennis and I (both getting a par) watched with some disgust, and amusement. We invited them into the 19th hole for a “cold one”. They declined because they wanted to go to … are you ready? .... McDonald’s.
In retrospect, I should have said something to these two. However, I was only going to see them for this one round, they seemed set in their ways, and I think they were having a good time. If I’m paired again with someone who shows up on the first tee wearing sandals and a shirt hanging out, I will probably decline the offer.
Club Notes
• North Conway Country Club: The Merlino’s Golf Tournament was held June 1 and 2 and the players had great weather and an even better time. The overall winner taking the top gross spot was Bill Ela. Taking the top net position was Brett Belcastro. In Flite 1, it was Tom Merrill taking the top gross and Steve Gallagher top net. In Flite 2, Doug Dugrenier took top gross and Mike Marbin top net. In Flite 3, it was Bud Carrier and Vince Osgood taking gross and net. Flite 4 saw Marilyn Miller and John Brennan take the gross and net. A Demo Day is scheduled to be held Saturday June 8, at the range. Taylor Made will be showing off the latest equipment from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June Champ of the Month will be this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Eagle Mountain Golf Course: Week 4 of Don Ho League action finds things tightening up. The Divot Kings are in first place at -23 followed by the Chip Shots at -22 and the Golfaholics at -21. Long drive winners were Tyler Palmer, Dennis Luftkin, Ann Bennett, and Vicky Ela. Closest to the pin for week 4 was Fred Fallen. Kris Kebler had the shot of the week when he holed his second shot on the par 5, 4th hole. June is “Women’s Golf Month” at the Eagle. Greens fees for the Ladies throughout the month will be $10. Free clinics for the Ladies will be available on Sunday, June 9, and 16 at 1 p.m. All are welcome and clubs are available. Beginning on June 6, clinics will be available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. throughout the summer. The cost is is $20 or a series of 5 for $90.
• Indian Mound Golf Course: In the Rivers Edge Quota League action, Jake Hall, Dick Prunier, and Bruce Pater took the top spot at +7. Closest to the pin winners were Norm Roy and Dick Prunier. Skins winners were Dave Charrett, Dick Prunier, and Adam Robinson. The Ladies Invitational will be held on June 26. The Match play qualifier will be held on July 19, 20, and 21. Member Guest will be held on July 12. On The Links Golf League saw the Sh’t Birds take top honors posting a -7. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Steve Keachley and Carrie Nolet.
• Wentworth Golf Course: A busy June is scheduled for the Jackson 18. On June 7, the White Mtn. Seniors will play the course. On June 9, the Conway Rec. tournament is scheduled, followed by the North Country League June 12 and the MWV Ski Team tournament on June 21. In Red Fox action the Bedazzlers and Darth Faders tied for the top spot. The Hale Merry’s took the third spot. Long drives went to Eric Russo and Evie Butler. Closest-to-the-pin winner was Tom McDonough. Ladies League action saw Ellen Daly, Pat Kelly, and Maura Ammendolla take first in the 9-hole scramble. The 18-hole winners were Maryann Fitzgerald in first place, followed by Lynne Walker and Cricket Catalucci. If you are looking for a short game lesson see Barbara Walker {Chipped in twice} Lynne Walker and Mary Collins. All three chipped in from off the green.
• Hale’s Location Golf Course: Hale’s Location will be hosting two large outings on Friday, tee times will not be available as the course is closed for the day. On Frida,y June 14, Hale’s will be participating in the Jen’s Friends Golf Tournament.
• Province Lake Golf Course: Province Lake Golf and Mulligan’s Woodfire Tavern will be hosting a Grand Re-Opening on June 8. Weekday rates will be offered along with discounts. There will be information booths regarding Junior Golf, Membership, and Golf Leagues. All apparel, golf balls and 2012 equipment will be discounted 10 percent.
19th Hole
As a precursor to next week’s U.S. Open, Merion Country Club has a great pedigree. The Pennsylvania course has hosted five U.S. Amateurs and four U.S. Opens. In 1939 it was rated the 17th-best course in the world. The experts who voted that years’ Open venue as No. 17 were Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Robert Trent Jones, and Bernard Darwin, amongst others. It will be a great test for the class of 2013.
•••
Golf news may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
This past weekend, I took a road trip out to New York to visit my daughter. Accompanying me was my brother Dennis, who not only wanted to see his niece, but was excited about playing a “pro quality” golf course, the En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott, N.Y. It was here the PGA played the B.C. Open tournament. Now, it is a regular stop for the Champions Tour as the site of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open.
The course is owned by the county and is open to the public. Greens fees are very reasonable: $58 on the weekend, with a cart included. I’m not going to bore you with a travelogue -that would be like inviting you to the house to see pictures of my vacation. Rather, I’d like to share what I view is great about the game of golf, what is bad about it, and what I think might be keeping folks from involving themselves in this pastime.
• The Good: When we arrived and checked in with the pro shop we were treated as if we were members. Staff was helpful, told us the course was in prime condition, and gave us a couple of hints on how to avoid a big number on the course. We asked if we were paired with anyone. They replied that we “could be paired but at this time you’re going out alone.” The course was everything we had hoped. The tee boxes were better than most greens. The fairways allowed you to hit from almost perfect lies. The rough would challenge the most accomplished players and punish for errant shots. The bunkers were plentiful, with beautiful sand, raked to perfection. Finally, the greens were the smoothest and fastest I have ever putted. We were told that they were running about 11 on the “stimpmeter.”
The starter gave us hints about the course and some key holes. Dennis bombed a drive down the middle of the first and mine was acceptable.
The next four hours was just pure joy-playing an exceptionally beautiful golf course, with great weather and conditions. We took all of it in and marveled at the championship tees and how different the course would play for the pros. We played well, hit some great shots and vowed to come back again. Oh, did I mention we were paired with another twosome?
• The Bad: The starter asked us if we would mind playing with two other guys. We replied “no problem.” In horse racing, when you are reading the racing form, there are times when a horse just jumps out at you and you just know you are going to the window. This is referred to as a “Dead Crab” or, a “no-brainer”. When I met the two playing companions, I knew it was a “Dead Crab.” After the introductions, we stepped back and watched them. They beat the ball through the rough, bunkers, and greens but would not pick up. Yes, they did show some signs of having the ability to hit a ball, but it was long and tedious watching them try to extricate from trouble. One player made an 11 on the first hole and his comment was, “I always take 8 even if I make 10.” We didn’t get angry and let it affect our games. Frankly, it allowed us an opportunity to take in this beautiful course.
• The Ugly: We had been waiting on the group ahead of us most of the day, so the bad golf we were witnessing had been tolerable. As the round progressed, the “Ugly” side of golf set in. Our playing partners decided to abandon golf etiquette. They were talking and moving while hitting. I was told to putt from 4 yards while the player was lining up his 20 foot putt! We waited to hit on the tee because one guy said, “I’m feeling strong and don’t want to hit into them.” He then proceeded to pop one up into the rough about 190 yards. Finally, on the 18th hole, one player hit into a creek that ran along the fairway. He took a drop, didn’t like it, and used a “foot wedge” to get the lie he wanted. Meanwhile, the other hit into the tree on the right, hit his next shot to about 10 yards from the green, and drove his cart almost to the front edge of the green. Dennis and I (both getting a par) watched with some disgust, and amusement. We invited them into the 19th hole for a “cold one”. They declined because they wanted to go to … are you ready? .... McDonald’s.
In retrospect, I should have said something to these two. However, I was only going to see them for this one round, they seemed set in their ways, and I think they were having a good time. If I’m paired again with someone who shows up on the first tee wearing sandals and a shirt hanging out, I will probably decline the offer.
Club Notes
• North Conway Country Club: The Merlino’s Golf Tournament was held June 1 and 2 and the players had great weather and an even better time. The overall winner taking the top gross spot was Bill Ela. Taking the top net position was Brett Belcastro. In Flite 1, it was Tom Merrill taking the top gross and Steve Gallagher top net. In Flite 2, Doug Dugrenier took top gross and Mike Marbin top net. In Flite 3, it was Bud Carrier and Vince Osgood taking gross and net. Flite 4 saw Marilyn Miller and John Brennan take the gross and net. A Demo Day is scheduled to be held Saturday June 8, at the range. Taylor Made will be showing off the latest equipment from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June Champ of the Month will be this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Eagle Mountain Golf Course: Week 4 of Don Ho League action finds things tightening up. The Divot Kings are in first place at -23 followed by the Chip Shots at -22 and the Golfaholics at -21. Long drive winners were Tyler Palmer, Dennis Luftkin, Ann Bennett, and Vicky Ela. Closest to the pin for week 4 was Fred Fallen. Kris Kebler had the shot of the week when he holed his second shot on the par 5, 4th hole. June is “Women’s Golf Month” at the Eagle. Greens fees for the Ladies throughout the month will be $10. Free clinics for the Ladies will be available on Sunday, June 9, and 16 at 1 p.m. All are welcome and clubs are available. Beginning on June 6, clinics will be available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. throughout the summer. The cost is is $20 or a series of 5 for $90.
• Indian Mound Golf Course: In the Rivers Edge Quota League action, Jake Hall, Dick Prunier, and Bruce Pater took the top spot at +7. Closest to the pin winners were Norm Roy and Dick Prunier. Skins winners were Dave Charrett, Dick Prunier, and Adam Robinson. The Ladies Invitational will be held on June 26. The Match play qualifier will be held on July 19, 20, and 21. Member Guest will be held on July 12. On The Links Golf League saw the Sh’t Birds take top honors posting a -7. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Steve Keachley and Carrie Nolet.
• Wentworth Golf Course: A busy June is scheduled for the Jackson 18. On June 7, the White Mtn. Seniors will play the course. On June 9, the Conway Rec. tournament is scheduled, followed by the North Country League June 12 and the MWV Ski Team tournament on June 21. In Red Fox action the Bedazzlers and Darth Faders tied for the top spot. The Hale Merry’s took the third spot. Long drives went to Eric Russo and Evie Butler. Closest-to-the-pin winner was Tom McDonough. Ladies League action saw Ellen Daly, Pat Kelly, and Maura Ammendolla take first in the 9-hole scramble. The 18-hole winners were Maryann Fitzgerald in first place, followed by Lynne Walker and Cricket Catalucci. If you are looking for a short game lesson see Barbara Walker {Chipped in twice} Lynne Walker and Mary Collins. All three chipped in from off the green.
• Hale’s Location Golf Course: Hale’s Location will be hosting two large outings on Friday, tee times will not be available as the course is closed for the day. On Frida,y June 14, Hale’s will be participating in the Jen’s Friends Golf Tournament.
• Province Lake Golf Course: Province Lake Golf and Mulligan’s Woodfire Tavern will be hosting a Grand Re-Opening on June 8. Weekday rates will be offered along with discounts. There will be information booths regarding Junior Golf, Membership, and Golf Leagues. All apparel, golf balls and 2012 equipment will be discounted 10 percent.
19th Hole
As a precursor to next week’s U.S. Open, Merion Country Club has a great pedigree. The Pennsylvania course has hosted five U.S. Amateurs and four U.S. Opens. In 1939 it was rated the 17th-best course in the world. The experts who voted that years’ Open venue as No. 17 were Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Robert Trent Jones, and Bernard Darwin, amongst others. It will be a great test for the class of 2013.
•••
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Last Updated on Thursday, 06 June 2013 04:53
Hits: 160
Golf: Stymies to Croquet to Belly Putter
CUTLINE
Dan Kelleher of NCCC showing his lucky hole in one ball from the 13th hole. (JOE SORAGHAN PHOTO)
•••
“Uneven is the course; I like it not.” — William Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet {Shakespeare played out of Stratford on Avon CC}
•••
The United States Golf Association and the Royal and Ancient Golf Association are the overseers of the rules of golf. When these two governing bodies agreed to adopt a ban on the “belly putter” or the anchoring of a club to ones body, a stir was created in golfing circles. “Belly putters” were first introduced into the sport by individuals trying to cure putting malaise. This controversy is not the first time the USGA and R&A have ruled on unconventional practices.
In 1951, the “stymie” was eliminated from golf. The “stymie” was an opponent’s ball that lay in the line of another player’s putting line towards the hole. In 1951, a player was not allowed to mark his ball, allowing a clear line to the hole for the playing competitor. Bobby Jones, in his autobiography, “Golf is My Game,” opined that the “stymie” should be returned to the game. Jones’ reasoning was that “…it is an integral part of match play” and, keeping the shot extended “the rub of the green” to the green itself. Many players during this time were excellent “stymie players.” Players would carry two putters- one being the flat-faced conventional club, the other being a putter which was lofted so that they could get their putts airborne. This would allow the ball to clear the ball that rested in the putting line. Players worked to develop proficiency of the lofted shot, allowing them an opportunity to win the match. Good “stymie players” grumbled and ranted about the elimination, but today one must mark a ball in another’s putting line.
Sam Snead was the most notable player who used the croquet style of putting, which was banned from the game in 1968. This ruling was the first time that the USGA and R&A ruled on “the execution of the swing.” The croquet style had a player stand astride the ball, or straddling the line of the putt, and hit the ball in the manner of hitting a croquet ball using a mallet. The argument used by the governing bodies was that golf clubs were designed to be hit from one side or the other. Solving putting problems in unique ways have always interested golfers. In 1895, at the US Open at Newport CC, a golfer showed up with a pool cue as his putter. The practice of using such a tool was eliminated quickly by the governing bodies.
The belly putter can no longer be used effective Jan. 1, 2016. Some players have adopted this method or have never used anything but a long putter. Those players need to be prepared for the rules change. For the pros, the ruling could affect their ability to earn a paycheck on tour. When the croquet style was banned, Sam Snead attributed the rule change to Bobby Jones, the ultimate golf purist. This new belly putter change is focused around a group of young tour players who are not only contending in tournaments, but are winning majors. The LPGA, the European Tour, and the Asian Tour have all accepted the ban. Only the PGA, the Professional Golfers’ Association, which wields a lot of clout, is opposed. What golf does not need is “bifurcation”, or separate rules for the pros and amateurs. This would be an unprecedented situation. One of the draws for many “weekend” golfers is that they play under the same rules as the professionals.
I played this weekend with a player who used a long putter. While putting, a voice arose from an adjoining fairway, “Isn’t that an illegal putter?” The putter only smiled, but when I asked him what will he do when his club becomes illegal, he responded that, The rule would never take hold.” He went on to explain that he anticipated that there would be litigation to protect some professionals. Here’s hoping that the pros do not tie this up in the courts. Instead, I hope the pros work on using the equipment that is allowed under the Rules of Golf. Litigation will only hurt the game.
Club Notes:
• Indian Mound Golf Course: Both the Men’s and Ladies leagues start this week. If you are interested call the pro shop for more information. In addition, 9 and Dine will begin on Sunday at 3 p.m. The weather didn’t stop the White Mountain Seniors from getting their round in last Friday. Indian Mound players, Marla Smith and Maureen Harrington scored birdies on a road trip to NCCC. Keep an eye out for Troy McDonald and Ryan Pacheco, these two Kingswood golf hopefuls, scored eagles at the Mound. The Arctic Wolves have found a new home at Indian Mound. The Special Olympics players are working hard on their game.
• Eagle Mountain Golf Course: In Don Ho action, the Golfaholics fired the week’s best round at -9. This moved them into third place behind the Divot Kings and Chip Shots. Individually long drives went to Ann Bennett, Melinda Fallen, Josh Shoen, and Paul Harlow. Dan Whitelaw got closest to the pin. June is “Women’s Golf Month” at the Eagle. $10 greens fees will be offered for the entire month. Clinics for the Ladies will be offered on Sunday, June 9 and 16 at 1 p.m. All are welcome and clubs will be provided. Starting on June 6, PGA Pro Bob McGraw will be offering clinics every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. throughout the summer. The cost is $20 a session or a series of 5 for $90. Call the pro shop for more information.
• North Conway Country Club: The Merlino’s Golf Tournament will be held this weekend at the NCCC 18, June 1 and 2. Last weekend’s Memorial Tournament was postponed until the Fourth of July holiday. The weather did not hamper some golfers. Congratulations to Dan Kelleher on his hole in one, Friday, on the 13th hole. Playing with Ted Davis and yours truly, the round up, to that point, was lacking in excitement. We had our eyes on the gray skies and had been dodging intermittent rain drops. We almost left the course after the 11th hole but Kelleher said “let’s play a couple more.” When he scored his ace we knew we would have to complete the round to make his hole in one official. It was like playing with the Bishop in the movie Caddyshack. The heavens opened up, the course was emptying of golfers, and we kept plodding along. When we arrived at the 19th hole Dan abided by the tradition associated with scoring an ace!
• Hale’s Location Golf Course: Wayne Sprouse of Hale’s, reports that the greens are “fantastic” and the winter kill that plagued areas of the fairways are coming together. The Men’s League will begin on June 4 with a 5 p.m. shotgun start. The Ladies League will begin on Monday, June 10, at 9 a.m. Sign ups for both leagues are available in the pro shop. Call the pro shop at 356-2140 or visit online at haleslocationgolf.com to book a tee time or inquire about lessons.
• Wentworth Golf Course: The weather might have prevented some from playing this weekend, but under clear skies and a freshening breeze the Red Fox League gathered for week 3 action. Taking the top spot was The Over Par team of Ray Gilmore, Don Newton, Quentin Gilmore, Dave Fall, and Chris Bates. The Puzzlers took the second spot. Individually the Long Drives went to Josh Shoen and Ellen Eiermann. Sharp shooter for closest to the pin honors was Scott Cote. The Ladies League played a 9 hole and 18 hole competition on Tuesday. The game was putts only. In the 9 hole match first place went to Pauline Whalley. Second place was three-way tie between Arlene Zaccaria, Pat Clapp, and Joanne Cassidy. The 18-hole competition saw LouAnne Cellana take the top spot. Second place was a tie between Ellen Eiermann and Kathy McIntosh.
• Province Lake Golf Course: Province Lake will start its Junior Golf Academy with Professional Patrick DeAngelo. The Academy is open to players from the age of 6 to 16. Province Lake has joined with The First Tee, which provides youngsters with character building and life skills lessons using golf as the platform. Nine and Dine kicks-off this weekend, tee times begin at 4:30 p.m. Dinner will follow in Mulligan’s Tavern. Singles, twosomes, foursomes, all are welcome.
19th Hole
Here’s a suggestion that might help you improve your game, become more involved in your round, and speed up the pace of your group: play a round without looking for distances and yardage. Rely on your eye, instincts, and experience. Toss the GPS aside for a round and let your senses be your guide. Try and ignore the yardage markers, have some trust in yourself. This will require you to become more involved in your game, and you will probably score better.
•••
Golf news may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Dan Kelleher of NCCC showing his lucky hole in one ball from the 13th hole. (JOE SORAGHAN PHOTO)
•••
“Uneven is the course; I like it not.” — William Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet {Shakespeare played out of Stratford on Avon CC}
•••
The United States Golf Association and the Royal and Ancient Golf Association are the overseers of the rules of golf. When these two governing bodies agreed to adopt a ban on the “belly putter” or the anchoring of a club to ones body, a stir was created in golfing circles. “Belly putters” were first introduced into the sport by individuals trying to cure putting malaise. This controversy is not the first time the USGA and R&A have ruled on unconventional practices.
In 1951, the “stymie” was eliminated from golf. The “stymie” was an opponent’s ball that lay in the line of another player’s putting line towards the hole. In 1951, a player was not allowed to mark his ball, allowing a clear line to the hole for the playing competitor. Bobby Jones, in his autobiography, “Golf is My Game,” opined that the “stymie” should be returned to the game. Jones’ reasoning was that “…it is an integral part of match play” and, keeping the shot extended “the rub of the green” to the green itself. Many players during this time were excellent “stymie players.” Players would carry two putters- one being the flat-faced conventional club, the other being a putter which was lofted so that they could get their putts airborne. This would allow the ball to clear the ball that rested in the putting line. Players worked to develop proficiency of the lofted shot, allowing them an opportunity to win the match. Good “stymie players” grumbled and ranted about the elimination, but today one must mark a ball in another’s putting line.
Sam Snead was the most notable player who used the croquet style of putting, which was banned from the game in 1968. This ruling was the first time that the USGA and R&A ruled on “the execution of the swing.” The croquet style had a player stand astride the ball, or straddling the line of the putt, and hit the ball in the manner of hitting a croquet ball using a mallet. The argument used by the governing bodies was that golf clubs were designed to be hit from one side or the other. Solving putting problems in unique ways have always interested golfers. In 1895, at the US Open at Newport CC, a golfer showed up with a pool cue as his putter. The practice of using such a tool was eliminated quickly by the governing bodies.
The belly putter can no longer be used effective Jan. 1, 2016. Some players have adopted this method or have never used anything but a long putter. Those players need to be prepared for the rules change. For the pros, the ruling could affect their ability to earn a paycheck on tour. When the croquet style was banned, Sam Snead attributed the rule change to Bobby Jones, the ultimate golf purist. This new belly putter change is focused around a group of young tour players who are not only contending in tournaments, but are winning majors. The LPGA, the European Tour, and the Asian Tour have all accepted the ban. Only the PGA, the Professional Golfers’ Association, which wields a lot of clout, is opposed. What golf does not need is “bifurcation”, or separate rules for the pros and amateurs. This would be an unprecedented situation. One of the draws for many “weekend” golfers is that they play under the same rules as the professionals.
I played this weekend with a player who used a long putter. While putting, a voice arose from an adjoining fairway, “Isn’t that an illegal putter?” The putter only smiled, but when I asked him what will he do when his club becomes illegal, he responded that, The rule would never take hold.” He went on to explain that he anticipated that there would be litigation to protect some professionals. Here’s hoping that the pros do not tie this up in the courts. Instead, I hope the pros work on using the equipment that is allowed under the Rules of Golf. Litigation will only hurt the game.
Club Notes:
• Indian Mound Golf Course: Both the Men’s and Ladies leagues start this week. If you are interested call the pro shop for more information. In addition, 9 and Dine will begin on Sunday at 3 p.m. The weather didn’t stop the White Mountain Seniors from getting their round in last Friday. Indian Mound players, Marla Smith and Maureen Harrington scored birdies on a road trip to NCCC. Keep an eye out for Troy McDonald and Ryan Pacheco, these two Kingswood golf hopefuls, scored eagles at the Mound. The Arctic Wolves have found a new home at Indian Mound. The Special Olympics players are working hard on their game.
• Eagle Mountain Golf Course: In Don Ho action, the Golfaholics fired the week’s best round at -9. This moved them into third place behind the Divot Kings and Chip Shots. Individually long drives went to Ann Bennett, Melinda Fallen, Josh Shoen, and Paul Harlow. Dan Whitelaw got closest to the pin. June is “Women’s Golf Month” at the Eagle. $10 greens fees will be offered for the entire month. Clinics for the Ladies will be offered on Sunday, June 9 and 16 at 1 p.m. All are welcome and clubs will be provided. Starting on June 6, PGA Pro Bob McGraw will be offering clinics every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. throughout the summer. The cost is $20 a session or a series of 5 for $90. Call the pro shop for more information.
• North Conway Country Club: The Merlino’s Golf Tournament will be held this weekend at the NCCC 18, June 1 and 2. Last weekend’s Memorial Tournament was postponed until the Fourth of July holiday. The weather did not hamper some golfers. Congratulations to Dan Kelleher on his hole in one, Friday, on the 13th hole. Playing with Ted Davis and yours truly, the round up, to that point, was lacking in excitement. We had our eyes on the gray skies and had been dodging intermittent rain drops. We almost left the course after the 11th hole but Kelleher said “let’s play a couple more.” When he scored his ace we knew we would have to complete the round to make his hole in one official. It was like playing with the Bishop in the movie Caddyshack. The heavens opened up, the course was emptying of golfers, and we kept plodding along. When we arrived at the 19th hole Dan abided by the tradition associated with scoring an ace!
• Hale’s Location Golf Course: Wayne Sprouse of Hale’s, reports that the greens are “fantastic” and the winter kill that plagued areas of the fairways are coming together. The Men’s League will begin on June 4 with a 5 p.m. shotgun start. The Ladies League will begin on Monday, June 10, at 9 a.m. Sign ups for both leagues are available in the pro shop. Call the pro shop at 356-2140 or visit online at haleslocationgolf.com to book a tee time or inquire about lessons.
• Wentworth Golf Course: The weather might have prevented some from playing this weekend, but under clear skies and a freshening breeze the Red Fox League gathered for week 3 action. Taking the top spot was The Over Par team of Ray Gilmore, Don Newton, Quentin Gilmore, Dave Fall, and Chris Bates. The Puzzlers took the second spot. Individually the Long Drives went to Josh Shoen and Ellen Eiermann. Sharp shooter for closest to the pin honors was Scott Cote. The Ladies League played a 9 hole and 18 hole competition on Tuesday. The game was putts only. In the 9 hole match first place went to Pauline Whalley. Second place was three-way tie between Arlene Zaccaria, Pat Clapp, and Joanne Cassidy. The 18-hole competition saw LouAnne Cellana take the top spot. Second place was a tie between Ellen Eiermann and Kathy McIntosh.
• Province Lake Golf Course: Province Lake will start its Junior Golf Academy with Professional Patrick DeAngelo. The Academy is open to players from the age of 6 to 16. Province Lake has joined with The First Tee, which provides youngsters with character building and life skills lessons using golf as the platform. Nine and Dine kicks-off this weekend, tee times begin at 4:30 p.m. Dinner will follow in Mulligan’s Tavern. Singles, twosomes, foursomes, all are welcome.
19th Hole
Here’s a suggestion that might help you improve your game, become more involved in your round, and speed up the pace of your group: play a round without looking for distances and yardage. Rely on your eye, instincts, and experience. Toss the GPS aside for a round and let your senses be your guide. Try and ignore the yardage markers, have some trust in yourself. This will require you to become more involved in your game, and you will probably score better.
•••
Golf news may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Last Updated on Thursday, 30 May 2013 05:32
Hits: 204
Golf: Playing it forward — Remembering Ken Venturi
The late Ken Venturi with Dean Webb, Mount Washington Hotel Pro, circa 1978 (PHOTO COURTESY OF KEN DONABEDIAN)“Sudden success in golf is like the sudden acquisition of wealth. It is apt to unsettle or deteriorate the character.” — P.G. WoodhouseI opened my e-mail last Saturday morning and saw I had a message from PGA and Eagle Mountain Pro Bob McGraw. Bob told of a time in 1978 when he attended a playing clinic at the Mount Washington Hotel. The foursome included: Mount Washington Hotel Golf Pro Dean Webb; North Conway Country Club Pro John McDonald; Valley golf standout, Cindy Luciano; and former U.S. Open Champ, turned broadcaster, Ken Venturi. Ken passed away last Friday.
Venturi spent a lot of time at the Mount Washington Hotel through his friendship with Pro Dean Webb. On the day of the clinic, he was sharing his knowledge on the famed hotel course.
