From Streetwear Dreams to Putting Greens: The Rise of Malbon Golf and its Big Swing with Jason Day

In the world of golf, tradition reigns supreme. But amidst the plaid pants and pristine courses a new trend is gaining traction, courtesy of a brand with its roots firmly planted in the world of streetwear: Malbon Golf. Founded by brothers Stephen and Erik Malbon, the company is shaking up the golfing landscape with its bold designs, innovative approach, and now, a major development – signing PGA Tour star Jason Day.

Jason Day has signed with Malbon Golf.

Humble Beginnings with a Streetwear Soul

The Malbon brothers' love for golf stemmed from their father, a passionate player who instilled in them a respect for the game. However, they felt something was missing: a style that reflected their own youthful energy and streetwear sensibilities. In 2015, with Stephen's background in fashion and Erik's business acumen, Malbon Golf was born.

Their initial offerings were a far cry from the typical golf attire. Think vibrant colors, unexpected patterns, and relaxed silhouettes – think less Augusta National, more Venice Beach. This unorthodox approach resonated with a younger generation of golfers who craved individuality and expression on the course.

Innovation Meets Performance

But Malbon Golf wasn't just about flashy looks. The brothers understood that performance was paramount. They partnered with cutting-edge fabric manufacturers and incorporated functional elements like moisture-wicking technology and flexible materials. The result? Apparel that was both stylish and comfortable, allowing golfers to move freely and focus on their game.

Breaking Barriers and Building a Community

Malbon Golf's impact extended beyond the course. They actively challenged the sport's elitist image, making it more inclusive and accessible. Through collaborations with diverse creators and athletes, they fostered a sense of community among golfers who felt overlooked by traditional brands.

Their efforts resonated with a wider audience, attracting the attention of celebrities like Justin Timberlake and J.R. Smith, who became vocal supporters of the brand. Malbon Golf's social media presence exploded, fueled by eye-catching visuals and authentic storytelling.

A Major Signing Shakes the Golf World

In late 2023, the golf world was sent into a tizzy when news broke that Jason Day was leaving his longtime sponsor, Nike, to join Malbon Golf. In a way this move fueled the flames of other Nike staffers — like Tiger Woods — potentially making the jump as well. This wasn't just any endorsement deal; it was a seismic shift, signifying a changing of the guard within the industry.

Day, known for his powerful swing and infectious personality, is a perfect fit for Malbon Golf's image. His decision to switch sponsors speaks volumes about the brand's growing influence and appeal. It's a validation of their unique approach and a testament to their dedication to building a community that transcends generations and traditions.

The Future of Golf: Where Style Meets Substance

Malbon Golf's trajectory is only heading upwards. With Day on board, their reach and influence are poised to skyrocket. Their focus on innovation, performance, and inclusivity is sure to attract a new wave of golfers to the sport.

As Malbon Golf continues to rewrite the rules of golf fashion, one thing remains clear: the future of the game is looking a lot more colorful, a lot more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, Malbon Golf invites you to step onto the course and express yourself, one swing at a time.

Malbon Golf's story is one of passion, innovation, and disruption. From its humble streetwear roots to its partnership with a golfing superstar, the brand is changing the face of the game, one colorful polo shirt at a time. As they continue to grow and evolve, one thing is certain: Malbon Golf is more than just a clothing brand; it's a movement, and it's here to stay.

When You Think Tiger Woods, I Hope You Think Of Me

It was the summer of 2006. I walked out of the DMV proudly waving my new driver’s license - the golden ticket to freedom for every newly turned sixteen-year-old. A few days later my parents finally handed over the keys and let me set out on my own. I tuned the radio to Kicks 101.5 and started my first solo drive. As I cruised down familiar back roads, sounds from the newly released Taylor Swift song filled my car.

“When you think Tim McGraw, I hope you think my favorite song….” 

Taylor Swift’s debut single “Tim McGraw” was released on June 16th, 2006. That exact same day, Tiger Woods missed the cut in a major for the first time since he turned pro in 1996. He played in 37 consecutive majors, making it to the weekend in every single one, until this one. Fans, fellow players, and even Tiger (eventually) contributed most of his poor performance at this tournament due to the passing of his father, Earl, only a month prior.

Earl Woods introduced his son to the game of golf. Every Tiger Woods fanatic has seen the video of two-year-old Tiger from “The Mike Douglas Show” or the clip from the 1997 Masters where Tiger buries his face in his dad’s shoulder and cries tears of joy after winning his first green jacket. When Tiger played golf, he thought of Earl. When Tiger watched golf, he thought of Earl. 

In a press conference heading into that 2006 US Open, Tiger was asked about playing again so soon after losing his dad. And while he admitted it was difficult, he also shared that getting back out there brought back some great memories. “To remember and think back on all the lessons, life lessons Dad taught me through the game of golf. All these things come rushing back to you.”

Those lessons definitely rushed back - after that missed cut at the US Open, he went on to win six consecutive PGA Tour-sanctioned events: The British Open (in Liverpool), Buick Open, PGA Championship, Bridgestone Invitational, Deutsche Bank Championship and the American Express Championship. Note: there are TWO majors in that list!

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Listeners of our podcast know that I’m a big Taylor Swift fan. On the recently released Taylor’s Version of Red, one of the new vault songs is titled “I Hope You Think About Me” that was even a trending Tik Tok sound for a while. It reminded me of her debut song, “Tim McGraw” and the last line of the chorus that says, “When you think Tim McGraw, I hope you think of me…”

When Tiger thinks of certain courses, he thinks of his dad and the lessons he taught him or the memories they share. When I think of Tiger Woods, I think of my grandpa and how he brought me to my first tournament where I got to see Tiger win. When my son thinks of Tiger Woods, I hope he thinks of me and how I make sure he still gets to see Tiger play whenever he’s in a tournament.

And when you, Dear Reader, think of Taylor Swift….I hope you think of me too. :) 

The Year that Was in the World of Pro Golf

With Christmas now in our rearview mirror, and the New Year right in front of us, the time has come to both take a look back at the year that was and look forward to what’s in store in 2024.

2023 was quite the year for me personally and professionally. While I could sit here and thank you all for watching, listening to, and reading us here at Golf Unfiltered this year, that’s just not my style. 

Instead, I thought I would take a look at some of the stories and events that had the biggest impact on me in golf in 2023, as well as look ahead to what 2024 may bring.

2023 Recap

There’s a Great Big World Outside Men’s Professional Golf

Working with GU this past year, I was able to do a lot of really cool things that reminded me that men’s professional golf is such a small and, in reality, insignificant part of the greater golf landscape when you really think about it. The true lifeblood of the game is all of us who may never step foot “inside the ropes” in our lives. 

You may remember that I had the opportunity to check out Steph Curry’s UNDERRATED Golf Tour at their season-opening event in South Florida in June. Getting to talk to those involved, from the kids playing in the event to those putting on the event reminded me why we are all golf sickos in the first place: because we love to play the game of golf. These kids would spend the day on the golf course trying to beat each other and then would spend the evening at the hotel having dinner together, playing video games, and just hanging out and being kids. It was golf in its purest form.

I also had the chance to talk to designer Gil Hanse and PGA of America head Seth Waugh. During that 30 mins or so that I talked with them we talked about a wide range of topics, and yet, very little of that time was spent talking about the PGA Tour (it was on the heels of the Michael Block experience at the PGA Championship so of course Seth and I talked a little about that. More on Block later.) We spent the majority of the time talking about how people like us go out and enjoy the game every day whether it’s going to the driving range, playing a full round of golf, or even the continued success of places such as TopGolf and Drive Shack.

It was an amazing experience and helped me reinvigorate my love of the game.

The #BlockParty

This wouldn’t be a “year in review” of sorts without bringing up Michael Block and the #BlockParty. We all know my opinions on the man in terms of what happened after the PGA Championship, but, being this is an end-of-the-year wrap-up of sorts I did want to take a moment to remind myself and everyone else just how cool the #BlockParty was in the moment.

As fans of golf I feel like, when it comes to the majors at least, we are constantly looking for that real-life “Tin Cup” moment. The random everyday Joe golfer who shows up on the biggest stage and under the brightest lights and hangs around with the big boys.

Well, for 4 days we found that in Michael Block…or at least so we thought. Before we found out that Blockie was more Omar Uresti than the guy folding shirts at your local course’s pro shop (not that there is anything wrong with either of those), we all got to follow along as the guy who was the closest thing we had seen to an “everyman” not just competed with the big boys of men’s professional golf but held his own, at times even dominating. After all, who could forget his walk-and-talk with SVP during the first two rounds or his hole-in-one in front of Rory on Sunday?

While the #BlockParty has mostly come to an end, for those 4 days in May it was truly electric.

The Divide With the PGA Tour Grows

I could spend this entire recap just talking about all the ways the Tour screwed things up in 2023, but that’s not what I mean here. For all the fighting with LIV and the infighting within its own ranks, the one thing the PGA Tour managed to accomplish this year is widening the divide between the men’s professional game and the fans. You know, the ones that actually pay for the Tour to remain profitable as a “non-for-profit” organization.

While Jay Monahan may have been trying to keep the entity that is the Tour strong and the fans from jumping ship, every single move he made in 2023 seemed to do the exact opposite.

While there is no indication - at least from TV ratings numbers - that his faithful fanbase has jumped to LIV, there is also little indication that they are sticking with the Tour either, instead choosing neither in this battle for men’s professional golf supremacy, and, frankly, I can’t say I blame any of them.

We are all golf sickos here at GU and I have never been less interested to watch PGA Tour events than I was in 2023 and trust me, it had nothing to do with the guys that were playing on LIV. All the fighting and bickering over money, OWGR points, “elevated events,” and “strategic partnerships” widened the divide between the men’s professional game and the average fan to a point where I’m not sure there will be an opportunity to shrink it, at least not with Monahan in charge. He may have lost the room when it comes to his own players but, he also lost the room when it comes to those that he needs the most…the fans.

TGL Was Coming…Until It Wasn’t

One good thing that seemingly came from all this fighting for dollars was the creation of a new, laid-back golf league called the TGL. Started by Rory and Tiger it was going to pit Tour pros against each other in a state-of-the-art simulator golf setting. The concept seemed fun and, since it was going to take place during the week, wasn’t going to interfere with Tour schedules. Add in the fact that it was going to be televised on ESPN and it looked like we were going to get the closest thing to what it would be like to see these guys play golf with their buddies that we could.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other ideas.

A freak storm down here in November led to strong winds and power outages. Unfortunately, it also led to damage to the building that was going to be housing the TGL and its events and, with just under 2 months before the launch date, the damage was bad enough that the league had to be pushed back a year to 2025. 

What I’m Looking Forward To in 2024

Tiger’s Back?!

Like we usually do this time of year, we got a glimpse of Tiger Woods at the Hero World Challenge and the Father-Son. Unlike in past years though, what we saw was a Tiger that appears to be ready to get back at it on the PGA Tour on a regular basis…or at least a regular basis for him in his current state.

Barring any unforeseen setbacks or injuries, it would appear that Tiger is going to try and play in at least 1 Tour event (including majors) a month this upcoming season. That means we could see Tiger as many as 8-10 times this year!

The PGA Show

GU will be well-represented at the 2024 PGA Merchandise Show, with yours truly being there. While I have had the opportunity to attend the show in the past for other outlets, this will be my first time there with GU.

Much like my time covering the UNDERRATED Tour, going to the PGA Show will be another nice reminder of just how much the game of golf is thriving beyond the men’s professional game. 

Bringing More Non PGA Tour Stories To Life

Beyond just the PGA Show, the thing I think I am most looking forward to in 2024 is continuing to bring more stories to you all that aren’t PGA Tour or men’s professional golf related. Whether it’s the UNDERRATED Tour or Jim Furyk designing his first golf course, it’s important, at times, to remember that there is this great big world out there when it comes to golf beyond just the men’s game.

Overall I’m looking forward to what 2024 has in store and I hope you all enjoy coming along for the ride with not just me, but all of us at GU.

(Featured image by Kris McEwen.)

What's the buzz around the Costco Kirkland Signature Irons?

Costco's Kirkland Signature brand has become synonymous with high-quality products at unbeatable prices, and the golf world is no exception. Their latest release, the Kirkland Signature 7-piece Players Iron Set, has generated serious buzz amongst golfers of all skill levels. But what's behind the hype? Let's take a closer look at these irons, manufactured by Indi Golf, and see if they live up to the Kirkland Signature legacy.

First Impressions: Premium Performance, Budget-Friendly Price

Right off the bat, the Kirkland Signature irons impress with their sleek, modern design. The cavity-back construction inspires confidence at address, while the clean lines and minimal branding exude a touch of sophistication. But don't be fooled by the understated aesthetic – these irons pack a serious performance punch.

Forged for Feel and Forgiveness

Made from premium 431 stainless steel, the irons are surprisingly soft for their price point. This translates to a buttery feel at impact, even on mishits. Indi Golf's proprietary forging process ensures consistent density throughout the clubhead, maximizing both feel and forgiveness. So, whether you're a scratch golfer or a weekend warrior, you can expect a satisfying connection and optimal distance control.

Progressive Design for Every Shot

The Kirkland Signature irons feature a progressive design that caters to different distances and trajectories throughout the set. The longer irons boast larger heads and wider soles for increased forgiveness and launch, while the shorter irons prioritize precision and control. This thoughtful design ensures versatility and playability for every shot on the course.

Technology that Makes a Difference

Beyond the sleek design and premium materials, the Kirkland Signature irons are packed with technology that elevates your game. The True Temper Elevate 115 steel shafts provide a smooth, mid-launch trajectory, ideal for both distance and accuracy. Additionally, the Lamkin Crossline 360 grips offer exceptional comfort and control, further enhancing your feel and swing mechanics.

Performance Meets Value: The Kirkland Signature Advantage

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Kirkland Signature irons is their unbeatable price point. At just $499.99 for the 7-piece set (4-9 irons and pitching wedge), these irons offer incredible value compared to similarly specced clubs from major brands, which can easily cost upwards of $1,000 or more. This makes them an attractive option for both budget-conscious beginners and experienced players looking for a high-performance upgrade without breaking the bank.

Early Reviews are Favorable

While the Kirkland Signature irons are still relatively new, early reviews from golfers at all levels have been overwhelmingly positive. Praises include the irons' excellent feel, forgiveness, and distance control, all at a price point that's simply unheard of in the golf world.

The Verdict: A (POSSIBLE) Game-Changer for Golfers of All Levels

Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking a performance upgrade or a newcomer looking for a quality starter set, the Kirkland Signature irons by Indi Golf deserve serious consideration. They offer exceptional value, premium materials and technology, and a design that caters to a wide range of skill levels. If you're looking to elevate your game without breaking the bank, the Kirkland Signature irons are a game-changer you won't want to miss.

The Absurdity of Men's Professional Golf

While this week was milder in comparison to the drama from the previous week, men’s professional golf remains in a state of chaos. Jon Rahm’s defection to LIV Golf was but another turning point in the future of the PGA TOUR and reignited the frustrations of whiny pro golfers everywhere.

When news broke that a cadre of PGA TOUR players (deemed the “mules” by golf media) sent a memo via legal representation to the PGA TOUR Policy Board, the jokes almost wrote themselves. The list of players included the likes of James Hahn, Grayson Murray, Lanto Griffin, and other barely recognizable names who you may have heard of only because of their propensity to complain. These players demanded more transparency in any ongoing negotiations by the TOUR with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), to which they felt entitled due to their membership status.

As much as I laugh at those names, they aren’t wrong.

These past fews months have felt like we all snuck into a corporation and managed to eavesdrop on water cooler conversations among dissatisfied employees. What we heard at TOUR player press conferences suddenly conflicted with decisions by that player later on, as was the case with Rahm. Clearly a star in every sense of the word, Rahm was made to look like a disgruntled staffer who accepted a job offer from a competitor just to “stick it to the man.” His pledges of fealty to Jay Monahan’s PGA TOUR up and vanished.

It’s difficult to not sit back and wonder who these players truly are despite the words they say. Is anything real anymore? Can anyone be believed?

The money involved in this whirlwind of activity is perhaps the most absurd. Amounts rumored to be in the high hundreds of millions of dollars are thrown around with ease, forcing fans of the sport to try and wrap our minds around their meaning. “If someone offered you $500 million to leave your job…” suddenly became a frequent talking point by supporters of LIV, knowing full well that none of us will ever be faced with that decision. These numbers are make-believe, figments of imagination and exaggeration regular folks toss around to make a point.

This is also true for the imaginary world in which Rahm now finds himself. Only in fiction could a world exist where his “star power” is worth anywhere close to the rumored $300-$600 million he’s to receive for joining LIV. Rahm is not this transcendent sports icon recognizable to the world. He knows this to be true, of course, which may have made LIV’s offer even more enticing. He took the money and ran before anyone else would catch on to the charade.

Perhaps the only aspect of men’s pro golf that is more absurd than the rest is our reaction to this mess. We have all naturally taken an “us versus them” stance on any new piece of information, whether it be players joining LIV, players demanding more transparency, or who is rumored to be running either TOUR. We all feel more knowledgable than the next person, ready to debate and poke holes in the opinions of others. To be a fan of pro golf right now is to agree to choosing sides and defending your choice no matter the cost.

I have not been shy to express my biases to any of this news, but what does it matter? It’s clear that these players have fans as an afterthought, making choices only for themselves and their families. This has always been the case and fans are just now catching on. This presents another layer of absurdity in that we should have realized this long ago.

One Fan's Perspective on this Week in Golf

I’m not really sure how we got here.

This has been one of the wildest weeks in golf that I can remember, and it has everything to do with the sheer number of golfers affected. News of Jon Rahm, inarguably one of the best golfers on the planet by any measure, signing with LIV Golf was only overshadowed by the golf ball rollback announcement from the game’s governing bodies. While the latter directly affects but one player, the former impacts every golfer. It’s as dramatic a combination of news golf fans have ever seen in seven days.

Change, of course, has not been reserved to only men’s professional golf. It could be argued that 2019 marked the beginning of massive change in every walk of life for reasons completely unrelated to golf. In the years that followed you’ve seen change everywhere you look, including your neighborhood, social media feeds, news broadcasts, family conversations and even in your workplace. Questions previously reserved for water-cooler conversations are now amplified for all to hear, accuracy and legitimacy be damned.

Everyone suddenly had an audience, most of whom were also locked indoors staring at their screens arguing with one another.

During the pandemic everything was up for debate. Questions about every walk of life abounded. What the hell else did we have to do, besides stir up controversy by closely examining mundane aspects of life we previously took for granted? “You know what… why do we do things this way?”

Golf was no different, both professionally and at the recreational level. While conversations about the PGA TOUR’s business dealings and inquiries about how far the golf ball was flying have been around for years, the “cool thing to do” became finally voicing those concerns on a grand scale.

Or, maybe we just had time to finally think about it.

Suddenly, or at least more loudly, we started hearing about unhappy PGA TOUR players. Then we started hearing more. And more. And more. The only show in town was now being questioned by the game’s elites, leaving fans to wonder: what the hell is going on with that joint?

And here we are.

There is nothing wrong with Jon Rahm signing with LIV Golf. He plays golf for a living — despite his insistence he “doesn’t golf for money” — and it’s entirely his right to make as much money as possible. If the argument stops there, we should all agree.

The golf ball, especially at the pro level, is flying farther on average than ever before. Technology has improved, personal fitness has improved, and many courses have been lengthened to account for this change. If we stop the argument there, we should all agree on those facts.

We all know that life doesn’t operate in a vacuum, either.

As such, everything else that creeps in to either conversation leads to my frustration with golf at this moment. Consider the perspective of Rahm. He chose to remain loyal to the PGAT in 2022, literally brushing off LIV talks as rumor, citing legacy and format as reasons for his “pledged fealty.” Then Jay Monahan has a secret meeting, tells no players, enters into a perceived framework agreement to accept money from the same source he told other players to decline, and slaps the likes of Rahm right in the mouth.

Simultaneously, golf’s governing bodies are rolling back a portion of Rahm’s skillset (he is one of the best drivers of the ball in the game), potentially impacting his livelihood. If you’re him, who just saw your Tour’s leadership betray you financially, and are now being told the tools you use to make a living are also changing… well, I can’t fault him.

While the equipment change will still impact players no matter where they play golf, this is all about issues compounding one another. Followers of the game, myself included, are driven to debate in an attempt to make sense of it all. Such is the new routine.

I’ve not been shy to share my opinions on all of the above in the past. It probably aligns with some of yours while conflicting with others. Regardless, we can all agree that this much change at one time leads to an impression of chaos and disorganization. It doesn’t feel like a natural progression that would have happened anyway, but rather drinking from a firehose due to some arbitrary deadline nobody understands.

How we got to this place in the game isn’t as important as where we will end up. I am hopeful the dust will settle and the game will self-correct, offering the mountain of new golfers a reprieve from blustery debate lead by those of us unable to see past our own noses.

Here is the Golf Ball Rollback Announcement from the USGA and R&A

On Wednesday, December 6th 2023, golf’s governing bodies — the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club (R&A) — formally announced their proposal to change testing perimeters for golf balls moving forward. Deemed the “golf ball rollback” by many, the two-page proposal included details on what was to change about the testing perimeters, summarized data on what the change will mean for different golfer types, and implementation timeframes.

The full announcement can be found below.

You can also read the same announcement on the USGA website here.

Golf Ball Rollback for Dummies

If you’re a new golfer or someone who simply wants to know what all of this hooplah around a “golf ball rollback” means, let’s break it down into easily digestible parts (without any crazy golf nerd jargon).

(Editor’s note: shout-out to our friend Samantha Marks for the idea for this article)

What the heck is going on?

This week we are expecting an announcement that the golf balls used in our sport will be changing. This means that they will need to be made differently in order to adhere to golf’s rules.

Who is making this change?

Golf’s governing bodies, aka the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club (R&A). They are the groups who are tasked with keeping golf alive for future generations.

Why is this happening?

Short answer: it depends who you ask. Longer answer: golf’s governing bodies believe that players at all levels are hitting the ball too far.

How is that a problem?

This might be hard to keep at a high level, but here goes nothing. The biggest reason for this rollback is related to land and protecting the “essence of the game.” Golf courses only have so much space, and if golf balls fly too far, the perception is that golf courses will become obsolete and too easy. Golf purists believe this would damage the game and therefore support the rollback.

So what’s actually changing about the golf ball?

Hard to tell right now, but all golf ball manufacturers will need to adjust how their products are made in order to stay within the rules of golf.

But isn’t hitting the ball far a skill that should be protected?

Absolutely, and that’s a main argument from people against the rollback.

Why don’t they just roll back the ball for the really good players (pros)?

That was actually the first idea golf’s governing bodies had, but the better players (and brands who make golf balls) complained about it. So another option was needed.

But I like hitting the ball far. Won’t this make the game less fun?

That’s entirely up to the golfer. One line of thought is if everyone has to face the same rollback, then we’re all being affected in the same way. Longer hitters will still be longer.

When is all of this going to happen?

Based on what we currently know, pro golfers will have to use the new golf balls by 2028 while recreational golfers have until 2030. We should know more once the official announcement is made.

So if all golfers are going to hit it shorter, but longer hitters will still be longer than everyone else, what’s the point?

Again, depends who you ask. It is the governing bodies’s view that decreasing shot distance for everyone will protect the longevity of the game.

Has this ever been done in other sports?

Yes, quite often actually. Baseball, football, basketball, swimming, tennis, and many other popular sports routinely adjust rules on their game’s equipment for many reasons. This happens at all levels of the game, including professionals.

So how much distance am I going to lose?

This depends on the golfer, but it is rumored that the longest drivers will see about a 15 yard decrease in their distance off the tee. Slower swing speed golfers will see less of a decrease in comparison, but by how much is currently unknown.

Don't get mad at the USGA for the golf ball rollback

An announcement about the upcoming golf ball rollback is expected this week and per our interview with Mike Stachura of Golf Digest it’s reach will be universal across all golfers. Public response has been as severe as it was predictable with amateurs and professionals jumping into the fray, directing anger at the USGA and R&A for a perceived overreaction to a problem that might not exist.

This vitriol is misguided, however, as golf’s governing bodies aren’t the interested parties serving as catalysts to a universal rollback. It’s the golf ball manufacturers and a segment of elite professionals raising a stink about any talk of bifurcation that lead to a one-size-fits-all decision.

It’s incredible that people need to be reminded of this, but the main responsibility of the USGA and R&A is to protect the future of the game. Say what you will about questionable rules changes, putter bans and wedge groove alternations, but golf’s governing bodies are tasked with balancing dozens of variables and interest groups while somehow protecting golf’s longevity.

It is an indisputable fact that golf ball distances have been increasing annually since 1980. The numbers don’t lie, and while the rate of increase has slowed since the early 2010’s, professional golfer data clearly shows an upward trend with no ceiling.

Whether you believe this increase presents a problem or not continues to be a dividing argument among golfers. Regardless, it shouldn’t be too much of a stretch to suggest if left unchecked, distances will eventually render many courses obsolete. It might not be in the next 10 years, but at some point something has to give. Golf’s governing bodies want to act on something now to prevent a bigger problem later.

Bifurcation was that potential solution. The governing bodies even heard public commentary on the idea (and others), allowing anyone in the golf industry to offer their opinion on the proposal. The response was as swift as it was unsurprising: golf ball manufacturers and professionals hated the idea of bifurcating the game.

The rationale behind their disagreement remains unclear. On the manufacturers’ side, a game with two sets of rules clearly impacts a brand’s bottom line and causes headaches for marketing departments. How do you sell two different types of the same golf ball? Never mind that these brands employ some of the brightest scientists and engineers in sports, capable of designing little round spheres with aerodynamic capabilities inspired by rocket launches. Introduce a little marketing dilemma and POOF, all of that intelligence goes away in a flash.

Give me a break.

Response from some professional golfers has been even more questionable. While the likes of Rory McIlroy and Padraig Harrington have offered sensical arguments for the rollback proposal, others like Keegan Bradley and MacKenzie Hughes likely view this as more of a threat. They are not alone in that opinion, mind you, as many other pros have lamented on what a rollback might mean for their own bottom line (in a matter of speaking).

It was this combination of manufacturer and golf pro anxiety that pressured the USGA and R&A to amend their bifurcation proposal. As a result, the governing bodies decided to just roll back the ball for everyone, allowing the proposal’s biggest dissenters to figure out what it means to them.

In turn, all golfers are now faced with a future reality where their golf balls will be different from what they play today. If that phrase reads as being painfully obvious… it should. Any assertion that amateur players who play once a week (or less) will suddenly have their enjoyment of the game ripped away is nonsense. At worst, “common person” golfers will experience a marginal decrease in distances coupled with a marginal boost in accuracy due to reduced flight balls.

Golf Ball Rollback is Coming Soon

A proposed golf ball rollback for all golfers is on the horizon, and it’s not likely to make the masses very happy.

According to Bob Harig of SI.com, golf’s governing bodies — the USGA and R&A — are on the cusp of implementing what equates to a reduced-distance golf ball that might affect all players, both professional and recreational.

Martin Slumbers — the chief executive of the R&A — told Golf Digest in a recent interview that he expects a final decision on the matter “soon,” potentially ending speculation on the magnitude and scope of a golf ball technology change. The originally proposed Model Local Rule that would have essentially bifurcated the game between professional and recreational golfers was met with much hostility by the likes of the PGA of America, PGA TOUR, and legions of golfers across the globe.

However, according to Slumbers, any change might need to be one that affects everyone as opposed to creating a world where bifurcation is a fact of life.

(Of note, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have expressed support for the MLR, much to the chagrin of their golf ball equipment sponsors.)

As someone who has long believed that rolling back the golf ball for elite players and not the rest of us could be a good compromise, I’m not sure that a “one-size-fits-all” approach is the answer here. There’s no way that recreational golfers will take this change lying down, nor should they. Distance is not a problem with the Average Joe or Jane and therefore should be left untouched and unaltered.

The irony here, of course, is that recreational golfers will not notice if their golf balls suddenly start flying shorter distances. The once-a-week golfer is unlikely to have their overall experience diminished should a reduced-flight golf ball be introduced to the market, nor will there be any way to enforce its use among amateurs. Of course, any change in golf ball technology will be rolled out with as little advertising as possible.

Professional golfers — whether you believe it is a problem or not — are hitting the ball farther than ever before. There are many reasons for that including an increased premium on fitness, shortly mown fairways, explosive driver heads and aerodynamically optimized golf balls. It would be foolish to only focus on one variable of this equation and not the others, however I suppose you have to start somewhere.

The golf distance debate’s premise rests solely on the assertion that golf courses are becoming obsolete, including the ones that neither you nor I will ever have the luxury of playing. Municipal golf courses across the globe have stood the tests of time in terms of the game’s technological progression. Amateur golfers still struggle to break 100, and the world still turns.

Adjusting the game for every player doesn’t seem like the best path forward here, especially with signs of golf’s Covid Boom dwindling. The delicate balance of protecting the integrity of the game for future generations while muffling the progress from this generation is not to be taken lightly.

Rory Resigning From the Policy Board Tells You All You Need To Know About His Current Relationship with the Tour

There hasn’t been a bigger poster child for the Tour since LIV came on to the scene than Rory Mcllroy. Whether intentional or not, Rory put the Tour on his back for nearly 2 years, even going so far as to answer questions when his own commissioner wouldn’t. 

So, I’m sure it came as a shock to many, if not all, when earlier this week he announced his resignation from the Tour’s Policy Board. While it may have seemed to have come completely out of left field, that announcement tells you all you need to know about Rory’s current relationship with Jay Monahan and the Tour as a whole. 

Yes, Rory is in the process of launching a new golf league. Yes, Rory has a family at home that he wants to spend more time with. But Rory has also been laid out to dry more than once over these last two years, and I’m guessing that had something to do with it too. 

Now, on the heels of the Tour formalizing their deal with the Saudis, a group that Rory very publicly turned down in the early days of LIV, Rory has thrown his hands up and called it quits…and who can really blame him? 

Your feelings about the current state of the men’s game aside, at its core, the Tour is getting into bed with the same entity that they pleaded with their membership not to get involved with. 

Do as I say and not as I do. 

Frankly, I’m surprised we haven’t seen more of the Tour’s most loyal follow Rory out the proverbial door. Jay has lost the room and doesn’t seem to be getting it back, at least not anytime soon. 

Even in his memo to his players announcing that they will have equity in the new, for-profit, arm of the Tour, he referenced questions he addressed to someone in his office and not him directly. The guy can’t get out of his own way. 

Rory decided that his time wasn’t worth it anymore and could be better spent focusing on other things, and that tells you all you need to know about his current relationship with the Tour.

LIV or Not: Professional Golf Is at a Point of Inflection

You’d forgive casual golf fans – the type of fans that tune in for the Majors – for not really having a grasp of what is going on in golf’s upper echelons at the moment. Back in June, it was widely reported that the PGA Tour had agreed to a merger with LIV Golf, the latter being the rebel breakaway tour backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). 

Yet, talk of a merger was – and still is – somewhat premature. A better term for what transpired in June would be a “truce”. Various lawsuits, including antitrust cases, were dropped in June, and while there was some agreement of a future where PIF would invest in the PGA and LIV would come into the fold under a newly named PGA World Enterprises, many of the details had not been ironed out. And, as it transpires, there are some logistical sticking points.

Merger may be scrapped 

As of early November, there are reports that the merger may be scrapped. There is also talk of rival bids coming in to take control, including one from the Fenway Sports Group, the investment firm behind the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool FC. Whether that materializes or not is something of a moot point; golf feels like it’s at the point where it will soon change forever. 

As for the fans, you get the sense that they simply do not want the boat rocked too much. Yes, there were always things we could suggest to improve golf’s ‘system’, and it wasn’t as if the PGA was universally beloved before LIV came to ruffle its feathers, but there is often this erroneous assumption from sports money men that fans are always wanting shiny new toys when in reality they want to conserve the traditions and rituals of the sports they love. 

Of course, we are in a sense of limbo at the moment. There is the much-publicized question of which LIV players will make it to the Majors in 2024. Right now, the likes of Cameron Smith and Brooks Kopeka are among the favorites with golf betting sites to win the Masters, US Open, PGA, and the Open, and they will find their way back as former winners and high-place finishers in previous Majors, but those without enough ranking points will find stubbornness from Augusta National et al., which looks like refusing exemptions. 

LIV players set to miss out 

For some fans, the temptation will be to say it serves the rebels right. Yet, there will also be something lost if a Major takes place without hosting the players who would have been there on merit. Still, we will have to see how the merger deal – and any fallout – goes through to see what will happen next year.

Nonetheless, it does feel like golf will be transformed, whether the fans like it or not, regardless of whether the merger goes through or not. There is a relentless wish to tinker at the top of the sports pyramid. It is not related to golf alone. See, for instance, extra games and international series in the NFL or the constant pressure of creating a European Super League in soccer, as well as a biennial FIFA World Cup. In soccer, in particular, these ideas have seen pushback from fans, but they are still being mooted in the halls of power despite their unpopularity with core fans. Why? Money.

And that’s the rub. LIV has been a catalyst for changes to golf, not the root cause. If Saudi PIF was to end its interest in the sport tomorrow, the changes would still come. When it comes to money, the genie is now well and truly out of the bottle. The sport was already awash with cash, but there is now a compulsion to make more by flogging the brand of golf. Perhaps it will makes things better for fans and players, but there is always the chance they are trying to fix something that was never broken in the first place. 

Boys Golf All-Stars 2023: Meet the best from Northeast Ohio

The great state of Ohio has a long and proud history on the golfing greens: Jack Nicklaus, the Golden Bear himself, calls the Buckeye State home, born just north of Columbus, while famed golfing architect Donald Ross designed more than two dozen courses in the state. As such, it’s no surprise that Ohio is one of the top factories of young golfing talents in the United States, pumping out collegiate prospects — and future professionals — at a high rate. 

As we inch closer to the winter months, there’s a lot of downtime to kill for die hard fans of the sport. One good way to tide yourself over is by acquainting yourself with the stars of the future, keeping an eye on collegiate recruiting cycles in the run up to the spring season. Here’s a primer on some of the top young talents in the country, both in high school and college, who hail from the northeastern part of the Buckeye State. 

Collegiate Golfing Prospects in the Buckeye State

The 2023 high school golfing season is just about wrapped up in the state of Ohio, with the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Boys Division I State Golf Championship taking place in mid October. 

We got to see a number of collegiate prospects take the field in that competition. Jack Vojtko of Akron Archbishop Hoban is a verbal commit to Ohio State University; Bradley Chill of Cleveland St. Ignatius is set to attend Indiana University in the fall, while his current teammate, Julian Dugan, will also head to the Hoosier state… but he’ll be playing for the Purdue Boilermakers. 

Jordan Kish of Massillon Jackson High School announced earlier today that he’s signed his National Letter of Intent. With that comes the announcement that he will be staying right here in Northeastern Ohio, given his commitment to the Youngstown State Penguins. 

Other collegiate prospects include Myles Murphy, Sutto’s teammate, who will start his collegiate career at the Division 2 level with the University of Findlay on the other side of the state.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are just a few prospects in one region of Ohio for next year’s class of incoming freshmen: with that level of collegiate talent on the board, it’s no surprise that the Buckeye state is one of the nation’s best at producing talent. 

Here’s a look at how they fare in college.

Division 1 Golf in Ohio

In the realm of Division 1 Golf in Ohio, a nod to the Ohio State Buckeyes is essential, even if they aren't strictly confined to the Buckeye State's northeastern corridor. The Buckeyes have consistently stood as a golfing powerhouse, mirroring their dominance in various collegiate sports, and the 2023 golfing season showcased their enduring prowess.

Securing their spot in the D1 tournament after a stellar performance in the Auburn Regional tournament, the Buckeyes ventured into the national stage with a chance at etching their names in immortality. While the ultimate national title eluded them this time, the Buckeyes emerge as formidable contenders for the upcoming season. Their roster is laden with returning talent, including seasoned seniors, fifth-year players, and graduates, ensuring that they remain a force to be reckoned with on the golf course.

For those eager to elevate their golf betting experience, especially when wagering on the Buckeyes or any other team, league, or sport, utilizing an ESPN Bet Ohio Promo Code is a strategic move. This code ensures that you're not just adding excitement to the game but also locking in the best possible odds for a chance to win big. As the Buckeyes tee off and the golfing season unfolds, seize the opportunity with ESPN Bet Ohio Promo Code in hand, and place your bets with the confidence of knowing you've optimized your chances for a winning experience.

The Best of the Rest: Youngstown State

While golf is a fall sport in Ohio high school athletics, much of the rest of the world doesn’t see it the same way, whether it’s the Masters Tournament in April or the NCAA season in spring. As such, you’ll have plenty of time to get up to speed on the state of golf here in Ohio.

Elsewhere in the Buckeye state we have a pair of Division 1 teams for you to keep an eye on: the Akron Zips and the Youngstown State Penguins. I’ve already touched on Youngstown State, as the aforementioned Jordan Kish has a chance to become a hometown hero playing for the Penguins less than an hour away from where he went to high school.

It’ll be interesting to see if Kish decides to enroll early given the long layover between the high school and collegiate seasons. If not, it would be nearly 18 months before we see him in live action again at the start of 2025.

JumboMax JMX Putter Grips Review

JumboMax Grips are quickly becoming one of the more popular golf grip options on the market, and their new JMX Pistol and JMX Palmbird putter grips are no exception. Designed for golfers who prefer different hand positions on their putters, the JMX putter grip line has something for everyone.

JMX Pistol putter grip.

JMX Pistol Putter Grips

For golfers who prefer a more traditional grip option, the JMX Pistol and Pistol Mid are right up your alley.

These grips are thinner in gauge, allowing for your fingers to overlap to fit comfortably on the putter for maximum control. Available in three different color combinations, the JMX Pistol grip is a lightweight design with a streamlined shape to allow for minimal grip pressure in your hands. This allows the golfer to really feel the weight of the clubhead throughout the stroke, if preferred.

Each grip also features the brand’s patented twist-resistant StabilityCore, which is extremely helpful in wet conditions of if you have overly sweaty palms on hot days. The JMX Pistol Mid offers all the same tech and features of the JMX Pistol original, but with a little more bulk for players with larger hands.

JMX Palmbird putter grip.

JMX Palmbird Putter Grip

Players who prefer a more counterbalanced or wider grip, the new JMX Palmbird might be the perfect choice.

This putter grip is much wider than the Pistol-shaped alternatives, offering players the option of placing the grip more in their palms or side-by-side. The JMX Palmbird can be used with any grip preference, including conventional, lefthand-low, claw grip, or others.

Despite the grip’s larger gauge, the JMX Palmbird is still lightweight to provide maximum control of the putter head throughout your stroke. All of the same features and tech found in the Pistol grips will also be found in the Palmbird.

@golfunfiltered Introducing the new JMX putter grips from JumboMax Grips! #golf #golfers #golftiktok ♬ Aesthetic - Tollan Kim

Overall Impression

As someone who prefers a thinner putter grip, I gravitate toward the JMX Pistol for my game. I also prefer the look and feel of a blade putter, which the Pistol fits nicely. However, should I ever want to switch to a heavier putter or even a mallet, I would have no problem switching to something like the JMX Palmbird.

Overall, both grips feel outstanding in your hands and offer just enough feedback at impact to let you know where on the putter face you struck your putt. For more information on the entire JumboMax grip line, including current pricing and availability, visit the brand website here.

Jim Furyk Looking to Make a Splash with his First Course Design

Like many Tour pros that have come before him, Jim Furyk has entered the golf course design game. His first-ever, signature course is being designed in Port St Lucie, Florida at the brand-new Glynlea Country Club at Wilder.

On October 25, myself and a few other select members of the golf media sat down with Jim at the groundbreaking ceremony to talk to him about how he got involved with the project and what he envisions for his first signature golf course, among other topics.

Q: First off, how did the project get started?

Furyk: Ed Burr (President and CEO of GreenPointe Developers), developers of the land and MG Orender (President of Hampton Golf), friend of the PGA of America. Both friends of mine from Jacksonville. I’ve known these 2 gentleman for a long time. And so this project came to fruition for me a few years back, probably 3 or 4 years ago when MG mentioned to me that they may be developing some land down here and maybe one of the communities would have a golf course involved and he was gauging my interest in being considered for the designer job and it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while and he knew I was interested and trying to get into that business being later in my career. So I drove down and talked to Ed’s son Austin who runs the Southeast areas for Greenpoint.

Got down here and we got out in his truck and ran out in the dirt and mud and crawled through trees and king of looked at what we had. And so it’s been a couple years in the making drawing some pictures at home with my architect and then they hired David Johnson as well. So it’s been a good team effort.

Q: How has your designer’s eye developed over the years?

Furyk: I can remember being in high school and maybe not paying attention to my teacher as much as I should have and drawing golf holes on my notebook. I was real fortunate, in my opinion, with growing up in the northeast part of the country. I grew up in the Philadelphia area and my dad was a club pro, sold golf equipment. He took me to play some very nice courses. The best course in our hometown in Lancaster, PA was Lancaster Country Club. It’s an old William Flynn design. The ladies have the U.S. Open there next year in 2024.

So I started really enjoying that as a younger player and then fortunately I was able to travel the world and play some amazing courses, whether that was the British Open or heading to Australia or wherever it may be. And so, you know the joke is as a Tour pro you tend to criticize designs your whole career and then they turn over the keys to you and then you kind of chuckle and say now everyone gets to criticize me.

It’s a flat piece of land out there. We’ve got some natural areas and so Mike and I went about designing the course and laying it out on paper. You’ll have a lot of holes against your natural areas, so protected areas on one side.

Q: Do you lean towards more of a classic golden age kind of philosophy?

Furyk: I’ll say yes, but you know what I don’t think you’re ever going to meet an architect that says no to that question. I think Pete Dye was a genius and really good at what he did, but he considered himself golden age but he seems very modern, right? So I think everyone probably considers themselves golden age because you’re drawing from all those experiences and all those wonderful courses that were built in the 1800s, early 1900s and you’re drawing from that. 

When I talk about golf course design everyone always points out that I go to the bunkers first. To me that is the bones and structure of every golf hole. And I don’t really look at bunkers as a penalty. I look at them as framing the whole thing, framing the targets. As an architect and the architects in my mind are trying to tell me where to hit it by the bunker placement. How does it set up angles into the green? I might not always know how far they’re trying to get me to hit it until I look at my yardage book or I’ve played the hole but I’ll look out there and go “ok they want me to hit it at that bunker.” They’re telling me I need to go here and that’s going to set up an angle.

Q: Having a blank slate like this as opposed to maybe walking onto a piece of property that has all kinds of different features, does that give you more freedom?

Furyk: It’s a blank canvas like you said so it does give you a lot more freedom but you also have to create some land movement. You have to create some interest and some beauty. The shaper really comes in handy there because you can draw it, you can imagine it, but you have to actually be able to move dirt and make it look natural, that’s the key. 

It’s a flat piece of land and a lot of the trees that were on the property were stuff that you’re not going to really use in the middle of a golf course so a lot of it was cleared. We’re using the perimeter for a buffer and then we’ve got some water features obviously and we’ve got drainage and we used a lot of the dirt from the ponds that were dug and we had some pretty good soil. 

So it’s a blank slate but really I think they key is trying to make it be natural, to look and flow here in Southeast Florida. I’m not trying to build a golf course that looks like the middle of North Carolina in Port St Lucie. So trying to make it flow.

Q: You’re working within the framework of a developer here. So how much freedom is there within that or are the developers kind of calling the shots?

Furyk: I give Greenpoint a lot of credit. I still hear it every day in meetings. Every time I’m down here and I’m in a meeting I’ve heard the golf course comes first. We need X, Y, and Z, ok the golf course comes first. So I think they gave us a really good avenue. Here’s your track of land, design us a golf course. We’re going to see how we can fit a neighborhood into that. So yea, I think we’ve got a really good opportunity to build a layout here that we wanted and then work with the community to make sure that we can fit the homes in properly. 

Q: You mentioned as Tour Pros you guys tend to criticize golf courses. So with that in mind now that the keys have been handed over to you are their things you’re already thinking about like ok well I absolutely hate this about golf courses and I absolutely love this?

Furyk: When you’re building a golf course like this what are we creating? Who am I designing the golf course for? What are you thinking? And so there’s going to be families, there’s going to be kids, but we see a community that probably is going to be a lot of 55 and up as well. So my mind goes to we have to design a playable course. We’re not going to have a lot of forced carries. I need to make it interesting. I need to make it so that if your bringing out your kids or bringing out a strong golfer they need to have a good time but also be challenged. But also, how do I get my beginning golfers around? How do I get my weaker golfers or higher handicappers or someone that’s you know maybe 80 years old that doesn’t hit it as far as they used to, how do I get them around the golf course? And so trying to make sure that forced carries aren’t there, creating a lot of areas around the greens. We’ll have some chipping areas, some short grass areas, areas that blend from green to tee nicely. But also all those golfers can put a putter on it, they can put a wedge on it, they can put a 7 iron on it, they can put a hybrid on it. It’s kind of an equalizer in the game that you can get folks around the golf course. Now, could there be a back-left pin on a short hole over a bunker? Absolutely, but there’s always going to be a place to hit it over there on the right. If you look at the strategy of the golf hole, you can still hit it over here, 2 putt, and make par. So trying to get them around is really key. 

Our tips are going to be a little over 6700 yards, that’s the goal. They don’t need to be any longer. My buddies that I play with are 40-60 years old, our club the tips are 7200 and then we go to 6700 and all of them play from 6700 and that’s still too much for a lot of them. 

Q: Tour players who become architects tend to design golf courses that fit their game. Is that something you’ve thought about or do you just say whatever fits the land?

Furyk: I think whatever fits the land. My biggest fear is probably that folks will see that it was designed by a Tour pr and they immediately think it’s too hard. And there’s a couple of Tour pros that design courses and they’re brutally hard. That’s what they’re known for. So my goal is I want folks to think fun when they think about my golf courses. I want them to have a good time. I want them to get around. And again, challenge the stronger player but make sure that your weaker player has a chance to have a good time and play the golf course and enjoy it. 

At the end of the day, as much golf as I’ve played in pro-ams and as many shots as I’ve seen over the last 20 years I do understand the challenges and I understand the basic misses that most amateurs have. I really want a community that when we're done and all these houses are sold and this is an active club they’re proud to bring their friends to the golf course. 

Q: Was golf course design always something that you saw yourself getting into one day?

Furyk: I dabbled some in my early to mid-30s. Had a course that we were about to break ground on in ‘08-’09, you can imagine what happened there. And then saw a lot of my friends through my early 40s who were in the business struggling for work. But now that you see golf kind of flourishing again, it’s really a good time in my career. I’m playing the Champions Tour, I’ve got 2 kids in college, my wife and I are empty nesters, we run a Champions Tour event in Jacksonville, but at the end of the day I’ve got a lot of time now to do the work and I enjoy doing it.

And it takes time. If you’re going to do it right you have to be down here a lot and it takes a bunch of time. Being here on site often, and this construction hits me perfect, November-February we hardly play on the Champions Tour so, you know, Mike can give me a call and say you need to look at something and I just get in the car and I’m here in 3 hours. 

I’m thankful for Greenpoint and Hampton for giving me the opportunity to kind of get my foot in the door and it’s actually opened a couple more avenues for me and we’re bidding on some other projects and have some good leads right now. So it’s been a lot of fun and something I’m looking to grow with.

Vince India and Jake Saiano are Collateral Damage for the PGA Tour

The ugly truth about the PGA Tour’s partnership with online sportsbooks is that they already knew their players would break the rules before signing the deal. Any notion to the contrary would be an insult to their intelligence, which is saying a lot for the Tour.

When news broke that pro golfers Vince India and Jake Staiano — two players on the Korn Ferry Tour — were suspended from competition for betting on golf matches, none of us were surprised. Not because of the players themselves, mind you; but rather knowing it was just a matter of time before someone got caught.

It also doesn’t matter that the two players weren’t placing bets on their own performance, instead choosing to place wagers on events in which they were not participating. The PGA Tour’s assertion that the “integrity of the game” must be protected — while noble in theory — simply did not apply in either instance for India or Staiano.

They were simply fans, just like you and me, betting on a sport they enjoyed watching. But alas, that also doesn’t matter.

We can all guess how the rest of this situation will unfold. Vince India has already posted an apology on his social media while Staiano shared his side of the story on Ryan French’s Any Given Monday podcast. This has become standard operating procedure in the world of social media and professional athletes making mistakes: post an apology, maybe appear on a podcast or TV show, and the news cycle will move on.

Meanwhile, the PGA Tour (and any other major sporting league that partners with an online sportsbook) will go about business unscathed. The sponsorship checks will clear, Tour athletes will appear in commercials and ads for the sportsbooks, and millions of gamblers will place bets every minute of the day.

Make no mistake: the players in this case are collateral damage that the Tour has already accounted for during their decision-making process. Just as we have seen in other professional sport leagues, athletes have a tendency to remind us of how human they actually are. None of us are immune to temptation no matter what front we put up to onlookers.

India and Staiano are not without blame, either. There is a vast list of other sports that either player could have placed a bet on and instead they chose to knowingly break a rule by betting on their sport. In the grand scheme of things, the PGA Tour’s Integrity Program isn’t all that difficult to uphold and abide by. Simply put: they screwed up and now have to face the consequences.

Still, there’s something to be said about mild entrapment here. What exactly did the Tour expect to happen after partnering with the likes of DraftKings, FanDuel and other sportsbooks? We live in the age of having mini casinos in our pockets at all times, making it easier than ever to participate in a vice (state legalities notwithstanding). As I mentioned on Dan Hauser’s Victory Over Vices podcast this week, this is as if the PGA Tour was sponsored by hot stoves but forbids players from touching their stoves.

“Do as I say, not as I do” seems to be the lay of the land when it comes to the PGA Tour’s kingdom. Players run the risk of portraying behavior unbecoming of a professional where the severity of punishment may or may not fit the crime. We are in a reality where players accused of domestic violence serve suspensions shorter than those who place bets on exhibition matches. It’s as nonsensical and sad as it can be, yet we are forced to accept it as truth.

Furthermore, there is no chance the Tour will put safeguards in place to prevent its players from participating in an activity that is not federally illegal. How could they? The mere insinuation of such action is almost as crazy as assuming players won’t find a way to gamble anyway. People are gonna people.

During the most tumultuous time in the PGA Tour’s history, the crossroads to determine its future position on business and righting perceived wrongs is already in the rearview mirror. Jay Monahan’s Tour has chosen his path, and it is paved in fool’s gold built with profit boosts and bonus bets. His players are not being asked to walk with him, but rather pushed to the adjacent ditch as we all move forward to an unknown future.

A Golfer's Guide to Colorado: Tee Off in the Land of Mile-High Fairways

There is a reason for Colorado to be called the place where the golf pros play and stay. After all, Colorado, the Centennial State, is one of only three American states without natural borders. 

Colorado is a geographically blessed diversified territory that includes the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Eastern Plains, and the desert lands surrounding the Uncompahgre Plateau, all enclosed within a landmass of more than 100,000 square miles.

For golfers, playing at altitude is such an exciting experience because the ball lingers in the air for a little longer, allowing you to hit some of your longest drives. Plus, now that we know that the 2024 BMW Championship will be played in Colorado, another reason for golfers to be interested in checking out the state. If you are thinking: is betting legal in Colorado and can I bet on the PGA Tour? Yes, you can!

Many of the must-plays in Colorado's top public courses are located thousands of feet above sea level, allowing for that thrilling distance gain. 

These hidden jewels, on the other hand, have far more appeal than extra distance since they take advantage of Colorado's breathtaking scenery. This is why we have put together a Golfer's Guide to Colorado to show you the dramatic mountain views, enthralling elevation changes, and wispy natural grasses.

A historical overview

Amateur golf has been managed in the state since 1915, more specifically, August 1915, when the Colorado Gold Association was founded. Since then, this organization has been arranging competitive play for more than a century and represents the interests of approximately 45,000 male golfers in over 200 golf clubs. 

Colorado's corresponding female golfing body was created a year after its male counterpart, and it currently governs over 19,000 lady members.

Later on, in 1957, the Colorado Section of the Professional Golfers' Association of America was established as the 31st Section of the Professional Golfers' Association of America. It was governed by the CGA and a single executive director.

More recently, the Colorado Section hit over 800 members by 2020, with 727 Class A members and 93 Associates. In the Section, around 250 golf courses employ PGA members. Since 1957, the only alteration in the Section's geographical limits has been the inclusion of the cities of Spearfish and Rapid City, South Dakota. 

The association has grown over time to become a full-service golf organization.

Featured Colorado Golf Courses

Golf in Colorado is unique because of the diversity of golf courses available. There are courses that are reminiscent of Midwest parkland courses, complete with tree-lined fairways and undulating greens. Colorado offers desert-style courses with mounds, native vegetation, and firm playing conditions. 

1. Fossil Trace: The Fossil Trace Golf Club opened in July 2003 in Golden, Colorado, near to the foothills of the Rocky Mountain Front Range, and it’s regarded as one of Denver's top golf courses and premium playing venues.

2. The Broadmoor Golf Club East Course: The Broadmoor Golf Club East is another classic mountain course, set hard against Cheyenne Mountain, and has famous green contours that create optical illusions.

3. Red Sky Ranch: Red Sky Ranch has two 18-hole courses, one designed by Greg Norman and the other by Tom Fazio. The two courses are separated by a ridgeline (the ridge is recognized as a wildlife corridor). The Fazio 18 includes more elevation change than the Norman Course, with the mostly open opening nine atop a cliff filled with hand-planted sage. The Norman 18 is located on an ancient sheep ranch on the western side, offering long-range views of the Rockies to the west and south, as well as stunning sunsets.

4. TPC Colorado: It's a pattern that runs along the east side of Lonetree Reservoir, serving a residential subdivision called Heron Lakes.

5. Redlands Mesa Golf Course: Redlands Mesa is a must-play for its geography alone, set against the background of the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction. Nearly every course has rocky outcroppings, and some tees play high above the fairway, affording breathtaking views of the surrounding lunar-like environment.

Tips from a Golf Pro 

One of the recommendations for golfers to lead their careers in Colorado is to hit the scoring clubs a little lower than usual.  This is because it will alleviate any uncertainty about how far the club goes. 

Mid-irons to wedges with good players travel much further than they expect when they first come to Colorado for a round. 

One of the effects of the high altitude is that the ball doesn’t travel as far as in other states, like Florida. Keep in mind that long tee shots do not equate to sea level and high humidity.

Since weather might change on a dime in Colorado, it is well advised to keep in your golf bag rain pants and a short-sleeved rain shirt or sweater since they can provide warmth while also repelling water.

It is also important to be aware of any wildlife on the links since they are more frequent than you might expect. For example, Fossil Trace is a popular elk, coyote, and fox hunting area. There might be a possibility of encountering snakes, so just keep an eye open just in case.

Meridian Putters Review

Made in the USA and based out of Brookfield, WI, Meridian Putters might be the diamond in the rough that you haven't heard about just yet. Specializing in milled-to-order customization and incredible performance, each putter by Meridian is considered 1-of-1, offering players custom designs at affordable prices.

Meridian Putter custom finish.

Meridian Putters Background

Meridian’s brand motto is making the best putter possible at a price that isn’t prohibitive. They want you to enjoy your putter and more importantly, enjoy the game.

We at GU are all about enjoying the game as much as possible for as many people as possible, and that includes working with brands who are interested in breaking down barriers of entry for the best equipment possible. With custom designs starting in the low $200 range, Meridian Putters fits that bill perfectly.

They believe that all golfers should have access to the best possible equipment without having to shell out thousands of dollars. This is especially true for a game where custom equipment can easily soar to high price tags, forcing most golfers to rely on off-the-rack, ill-fitting equipment options as an alternative. In the end, the golfer suffers on the course and big box brands lose a potential customer.

Meridian flips all of that on its head by offering a customization process that allows you to choose every single detail about your putter, including finish, head shape, milling pattern, and engraving options.

Meridian Putter custom face milling.

Meridian Customization

The process is incredibly simple and can be accomplished via the brand’s website. When ordering your Meridian putter, you are presented with a buffet of options that will make any golfer giddy with excitement.

After selecting your preferred putter head shape, you are then presented with a menu of customization options like alignment style, face finish, loft, length, lie angle, and heel or face stamping. Meridian will work with you on orders of any size and volume, down to custom face milling options for a logo of your choice. The amount of detail this brand offers its customers is astounding, truly making them stand out from the crowd in a saturated market.

Meridian also has the capacity to fulfill bulk orders, including groomsmen gifts, team orders and more.

Meridian Putter custom alignment aid.

Feel and Performance

Customization options are one thing; building a putter that performs and feels great is something else entirely. Meridian excels in this realm as well, providing a final product that rivals — and exceeds — the biggest name brands in the business.

We were highly impressed with our custom putter in every possible category. The feel off the oilcan finish is soft and buttery, offering a muted sound at impact which is music to our ears. Meridian was able to fit the putter to our specific loft, lie, and length (known from a previous fitting), making the putter one-of-a-kind.

Make no mistake: these are custom putters that could easily be priced hundreds of dollars more than their current price tag, and their performance backs it up.

Meridian Putter sole stamping.

Meridian Putter headcover.

Overall Impression

Meridian Putters are truly making something special for golfers who want to upgrade their game without breaking the bank. The number of options available to make each putter your own is immense and not something we’ve seen from other brands in recent years.

Do yourself a favor and visit the Meridian Putters website here and see for yourself. You will NOT be disappointed.

A Reckoning has Arrived for LIV Golf

LIV Golf has a very important decision to make regarding its future: do they alter their format enough to meet the requirements of the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), or do they fold entirely?

When news broke that the OWGR once again denied LIV Golf world ranking points for their tournaments, the golf world responded with a mix of surprise and eye rolls. This minor detail was undoubtedly a major selling point to PGA TOUR defectors who wanted an easier path to qualifying for Majors on top of massive paydays from LIV. In the end, however, it was the Majors that voted to prevent those players from achieving that goal.

According to UK reporter Jamie Weir, the OWGR governing board — comprised of representatives from every corner of men’s professional golf — whittled itself down to only a handful of deciding votes on the matter. That means only representatives from Augusta National, the PGA of America, the R&A, and the USGA actually voted on whether LIV Golf would be awarded world ranking points. The foursome decided that LIV Golf’s tournament format (among other factors) did not meet the criteria to earn points, and that was that.

What’s mind-boggling to me is that LIV Golf’s top brass knew this was going to happen all along. The OWGR qualifying criteria is easily found and abundantly clear, yet a mixture of pride and stubbornness from LIV clouded their judgement as they finalized their shotgun start, 54-hole tournament formats. None of this should have been a surprise.

In fact, any player who jumped ship to LIV Golf joined in this sort of groupthink that equates to not believing the rules apply to them. Perhaps it was also a promise from LIV recruiters that there was “no way” things wouldn’t work out. Oops.

What this decision has effectively done for LIV is spell out exactly how far down the road a finish line rests. Unless something massive changes in the atmosphere of men’s professional golf, competing in the Majors remains the ultimate goal for any player on any pro tour. While a handful of LIV Golf players are still riding an exempt wave for tournaments like the Masters and the Opens, time is running out for them.

For those players, the world ranking dam has been breached and there is nothing in place to stop the trickle.

None of this is good for fans of the game, let alone the players themselves. Can you imagine the likes of Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau or Brooks Koepka never playing in a Major again? The notion is ridiculous to entertain, yet the likelihood of occurring is increasing at an incredible rate.

Where LIV goes from here is yet to be seen, but there’s little doubt they have a few more tricks up their sleeve. There will likely be another appeal to the OWGR or at the very least a negotiation, which will require LIV to make significant changes to their format in order to comply with the OWGR criteria. Of course, that assumes that LIV is prepared to play along, which is something they’ve yet to show any interest in doing.

Does Rust on a Golf Club Increase Spin on Golf Shots?

Rust on golf clubs is a common sight, especially on wedges. Some golfers believe that rust can actually increase spin on golf shots, which can be beneficial for certain types of shots, such as greenside chips and pitches. However, others believe that rust has no effect on spin rate, or even reduces it.

In this post, we will take a closer look at the evidence to see whether rust on a golf club can actually increase spin on golf shots. We will also discuss why some golfers allow their clubs to rust, and any other potential benefits or drawbacks of a rusty finish.

Why do golfers allow their clubs to rust?

There are a few reasons why golfers might allow their clubs to rust. Some golfers believe that rust can actually improve the performance of their clubs, especially wedges. They argue that the rough texture of rust helps to grip the ball better, which can lead to more spin.

Other golfers simply don't mind the look of rust on their clubs. In fact, some golfers even prefer the look of a rusty finish. Rust can also help to reduce glare, which can be beneficial in bright sunlight. I’ve personally played a set of raw irons for years and enjoy the look of the rust.

Finally, some golfers simply don't bother to clean their clubs very often. This can lead to the development of rust, especially in humid climates.

Does rust on a golf club increase spin on golf shots?

The short answer is no. Rust on a golf club does not increase spin on golf shots. In fact, it may actually reduce spin rate slightly.

This is because rust is a porous material. This means that it can absorb water and other contaminants. When water and contaminants get into the grooves of a golf club, it can reduce the friction between the grooves and the ball. This can lead to less spin on golf shots.

In addition, rust can also damage the grooves of a golf club over time. This can also lead to less spin on golf shots.

Supporting data

There have been a number of studies conducted on the effects of rust on spin rate. In one study, researchers tested the spin rate of a new wedge and a rusty wedge. They found that the new wedge produced more spin than the rusty wedge.

Another study tested the spin rate of a wedge with clean grooves and a wedge with dirty grooves. The researchers found that the wedge with clean grooves produced more spin than the wedge with dirty grooves.

Other potential benefits or drawbacks of a rusty finish

While rust does not increase spin on golf shots, it may have other potential benefits or drawbacks.

One potential benefit of a rusty finish is that it can help to reduce glare. This can be beneficial in bright sunlight, especially when you are trying to line up a shot.

Another potential benefit of a rusty finish is that it can help to protect the club from corrosion. However, it is important to note that rust can also damage the grooves of a club over time.

One potential drawback of a rusty finish is that it can make the club look less aesthetically pleasing. Some golfers may not like the look of rust on their clubs. However, other golf sickos (like me) prefer the look of a rusty wedge. It all boils down to personal preference.

Conclusion

While rust on a golf club does not increase spin on golf shots, it may have other potential benefits or drawbacks, such as reducing glare and protecting the club from corrosion. However, it is important to note that rust can also damage the grooves of a club over time.

If you are looking to increase spin on your golf shots, there are a number of other things you can do, such as using a wedge with sharper grooves or swinging the club with more speed and a steeper descent angle.