What makes you feel old? Teaching your kid to drive? Rehabbing that new hip replacement? Witnessing Jack retire from tournament golf? My 40th birthday is looming with all the joy of an unlubricated prostate exam, and it has me in a serious “God-I’m-old” funk, made all the worse by watching The Shark himself, Greg Norman, compete in the Senior British Open last weekend. Norman missed a play-off between Des Smyth and eventual winner Tom Watson by only one stroke, showing he’s still got game. But man. I remember him winning everything in sight (except the Master’s and a few other majors) in ... full post »

I just returned from a golf trip to Ireland. In 2002, I traveled the linksland of Scotland, and was certain nothing could ever top that experience. I was wrong. To be sure, Scotland has the history, with St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Turnberry, etc., etc. But Ireland isn’t short on history itself, boasting the likes of Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Royal Portrush. But Ireland also lays claim to some of the best parkland courses in Europe, including the K Club. Most importantly, however, is the atmosphere in Ireland. The Irish have long been dissed by their Scots and British neighbors, and not just for golf. ... full post »

From an AP story on the John Deere Classic, being played this weekend in Silvis, Ill., comes the following quote from a fan: “People asked me, `Oh, are you going out to watch that young girl?’ I said, `Nah, she’ll get torn up by the professionals,”’ Corrick said. “(I’ve) changed my whole point of view about her. … I think she’s the next Tiger Woods.'’ Typical American: All or nothing – either she sucks or she’s Tiger. What if she’s simply good enough to make the cut? Isn’t that still pretty cool? Indeed, Michelle Wie sits at -1 after one round, above the ... full post »