Friday, February 6, 2004
Friday, February 6, 2004 |
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From America’s fairways While the guys are playing PGA Tour tournament golf in sunny and warm Phoenix, here in Georgia, as is the case with most of the country, the harsh elements of winter keep all but the most dedicated of players inside putting on the carpet. Speaking of Phoenix, would the casual golf fan have known that the FBR Open was being played in Arizona? What ever happened to including the name of town where the event is played or at least the name of the high profile facility that serves as the venue? This week’s winner may be a surprise to many; however, insiders have long been well aware that Jonathan Kaye is a player. His final-round scoring average is among the best on tour and is a clear indication that over the closing holes on Sunday when he’s near the lead he won’t beat himself. “Lefty,” Phil Mickelson, on the other hand, continues his flirtation with recurring dominance. Phil might consider investing in some psychological training to enhance his ability to keep his focus at the high level required on the PGA Tour. A man with his celebrated talents around and on the greens once again faltered late in the tournament to hole a key putt or get an essential pitch shot close to the hole. Super Bowl weekend also signals the gathering of the golf industry at our annual trade show in Orlando. The PGA Show has been an end-of-January fixture in Florida since 1954 and is one of the largest sports trade shows in the country. More than one million square feet of exhibit space is covered with booths from companies as large as Callaway to small firms selling everything from belts to trophies. All of the equipment brands are showing the latest technological advances created to make the game easier to play and for some, a way to hit the golf ball longer. The apparel labels are showing product for selling this fall. We haven’t yet sold a stitch we ordered for spring and golf shop operators are being asked to place orders to sell in October of 2004. Now that’s planning ahead. I can attest that there was nothing introduced in Orlando that replaces the required ability to return the golf club to the ball in a fashion that results in a golf shot that brings a smile to your face. As the great Byron Nelson once said, “The only golf shots we’re certain of are the ones we’ve already hit.” Lord Byron fully understood the unique allure to golf is the unpredictability of the game. Ben Hogan was the first to realize that the practice tee was the place to narrow the results of golf shots by practicing his golf swing over and over again. No matter your level of skill the game of golf is one that is played in the most beautiful of environments and with family and friends provides an experience unlike any other. See you along America’s fairways, John W. Boykin PGA Member Professional
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