This Week at TravelGolf.com: June 22, 2004

Random thoughts after a U.S. Open that paled in comparison to one of the best Masters in ages. First, I'm going to hope Tiger Woods was joking after the third round when he said, "If the wind blows and I play a great round of golf, I can still win this tournament." At the time, Tiger was nine strokes behind the leader, facing an unpredicatable final 18 holes at Shinnecock Hills.

Memo to Tiger: Some thoughts are best kept between you and Elin. I'm all for the power of positive thinking, but nine strokes at the U.S. Open? Forget all the talk about your swing. Let's start with being a little realistic, shall we? Fortunately, Tiger's criticism of the greens at Shinnecock Hills made more sense. When they need to bring out the hoses at the 7th green after every group passes through, something's definitely wrong. Shame on the USGA. This clearly falls under "preventable error" in the U.S. Open handbook.

For the most part, though, we enjoyed the tournament and Phil Mickelson's run at his second major. If you're one of the lucky ones remaining in the area this week, be sure to check out our rundown of the attractive Long Island golf scene. And if you're already counting the days until the British Open, start filling the time by checking out our usual full roster of reviews and travel features, plus a sampling of letters we received over the past month. As always, your comments are welcome on any topic. Have a great week.

Grand Valley
presents myriad of stunning golf

More and more Coloradans are turning to Grand Junction to relocate and enjoy a milder climate. And more travel golfers are discovering the glories of the golf in the region. According to senior writer David R. Holland, "The lofty views are awe-inspiring, including the barren Book Cliffs and the world's highest flat-topped mountain, the Grand Mesa." Holland also highlights several attractive side trips from Grand Junction.

Full story | Colorado Golf Courses

Craig Stadler's image takes a hit

There's no doubting Craig Stadler's status as one of the PGA Tour's good guys. Fans love that an out-of-shape, non-athletic-looking everyman who looks more like Santa Claus than Tiger Woods can hit a big ball and smile while doing it. It takes real talent, and quite a distinctive swing, for the 5-foot-10, 240-pounder to play golf as well as he does. But his recent DUI will undoubtedly take some of the luster, and allure, off.

Full story | More personality Profiles

Nicklaus retirement
watch grows weary for all

The call for the old great to retire is deafening in its silence. Why? Maybe we've just grown tired of speculating. Maybe Jack Nicklaus has just worn us down like so many of the also-rans who were always chasing him in his glory days. National golf editor Tim McDonald examines the issue and explains why the call for the Golden Bear to retire is deafening in its silence.

Full story | More Editorials