This Week at TravelGolf.com: June 15, 2004

It's been written (and if it hasn't, it should be) that coaches are best kept behind the scenes. With the notable exception of John Wooden, most coaches have nothing to add to the national dialogue. That certainly held true last week for Butch Harmon, who decided to break his silence and talk about his split with Tiger Woods.

Harmon's high-and-mighty position figures to receive plenty of attention as Woods heads into this week's U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills in Southhampton, N.Y. That's unfortunate. The focus in any sport should be on the athlete, and Harmon's comments only detract from the success he once shared with Woods. Even during the glory years, however, Harmon was only the swing coach. He remains a wildly successful coach, but it's best he listen to some advice for once and remain quiet about his past working relationships.

As expected, our writers have plenty to say about this week's event, starting with Shane Sharp's look inside the PGA Tour. In addition, Tim McDonald offers an interesting perspective on the Woods-Mickelson rivalry, and you're also invited to check out the letters we received last week in response to Bobby Weed's column on slow play. As always, your comments are welcome on any topic. Have a great week.

Pasadera features
sunny side of Monterey

The Pasadera Country Club is unique in Monterey and sets the bar. The scenery is stunning, the golf course is Nicklaus at his typical best, the practice facilities are way better than you will ever find at 80 percent of the typical California layouts. If you love Monterey and are yearning for something different on the Peninsula, Pasadera is well worth the look for those with sufficient bank accounts.

Full story | California Golf Courses

Tallahassee golf
still has plenty to offer

Tallahassee, although a state capital, is more like a small town than a big-city. It doesn't have the number of must-play courses, or the big-name drawing power, to stand up to the likes of the TPC of Sawgrass and Doral when it comes to drawing in tourists. But as Jason Scott explains, the area has more options than most people think.

Full story | Florida Golf Courses

Belly putters can
win you over; USGA is iffy

You've seen them on television when Vijay Singh is holing birdies. Fred Couples is now back in the top 65 in the world rankings after making the switch. Davis Love III uses the belly putter as a practice tool to make sure he's using his shoulders. The pros are finding the advantages of switching to the belly putter, but the USGA may take all of those options away soon.

Full story | Product Reviews