Torrey Pines 2008

Well now. I had the amazing honor of playing Torrey Pines in San Diego California right aroun 3rd week of October 2008. I must say, it is a well storied track and some neat things. First off, if you are a resident of the city, well, take advantage of the rates charges. Iz Cheap Man.

My goal at Torrey was to break 100 from the tips. I was either so excited, or so nervous.. not sure which... I failed in the mission (but not by much mind you). But I lucked out the next day (see below... last picture).

Funny story though, while standing on the back deck of the pro shop, I saw a rescue helecopter performing its duty by rescuing someone that fell off of a cliff. Pro shop sez "happens all the time". Yikes! Carefull duffers

You can click on any of these thumbnails to see super-detail

Sandy at THE CLOCK!



You MUST click on this photo if you want to see the amazing view to the pacific




Thank yous to our host (middle). Picted is Sandy, Michael and Mason

Yes... the better luck part. The next day, had time to visit another course in Escondido, that being The Vineyards. I recommend highly (6800 yds from tips). I shot an 80 there.... the day after Torrey. Go figure?! More than 20 shot differential. Same guy. Nutz Game

This is the view of #18 at Vineyards. I was in the first fairway bunker and nailed a shot to 8 feet, and got a birdie (WooHoo, 2nd of the day). Nice view

Check out all of the places you can before you hang up the sticks for good. See you out there!

2008 Morningwacker

Ahhh. Was a fine day for play as the 2nd annual 2008 Morningwacker event took place. For those not in the know, the Morningwacker event is the premier competition between the the members and the staff at The Meadows golf course at GVSU in Allendale Michigan.

To sum up the event, Staff wins over Members (14-10). At least it was closer than last year!

But we all had a great time. The 18 hole event was 6 holes alternate shot, 6 holes of best ball and 6 holes team score. The members certainly welcome ringers for next years competition (please!!)

For those people that have not played The Meadows, in my opinion, one of the best courses in West Michigan. It can bite you in the can if you are not careful, and will reward you when you do well.

Pictures come next. See y'all after the thaw!


(Almost) All the competitors at the 2008 Morningwacker


Scott, Meadows 2008 Club Champ, wondering what happened "out there"

Sandy and Pat just chillin

Sandy's playing partner, Russ - note smiles there even after the beatings

As you see, staff wins (again, dang!)

Ahh, "I see your problem now, Byde"

Spiro and a stupendous drive off of #1

On the bridge at Hole #17. Great players here!

Not all players looked this good in their backswing (it was a great shot, too, Pat!)

Just before the beating was to begin

This is the closest the members came to winning (yes, BEFORE the event started)

Come see the sights

Sandy here has played in several tournament events. They are all fun, but I noticed something odd. The "tournament" handicap is very different than the official USGA handicap. Sandy is new to the tournament golf play, so the variance may be mental. Who knows, maybe you do.

I am a bit disappointed in the turnouts at the events. Less and less players are showing up. I shower before I go, so it is not personal hygiene. I cannot account for the mild apathy of other members of this tour.

I would strongly encourage any players to please try out the golf channel amateur tour. The prizes are decent. I especially like the skin and stableford side-games. Even if you did not do your best that day, a skin won makes me feel better anyway.

Time is at hand

Here in loverly Michigan, we all anxiously await the thaw to move quicker than it has. Apparently a record snowfall this past season has led to a very late spring thaw. It is late March and there is still plenty of snow left around. That does not bode well for the courses that traditionally open on April 1. So we wait.

I realize that I get more in touch with my vegetable soul when I am around the trees and shrubs and all things on the links. The great inner peace and belonging are emphasized when the experience is shared with other like minded individuals. We are all just small vessels of a greater work and golf gets me in touch with that place. I suspect the effect is moderate compared to the fullness when completely at one with the entirety of creation.

But we all have our time, no matter if short or long, we all belong. Come golfing with me anytime

The Transform Result

Sandy Here just to inform you all that the visit to Hotstix was very much worth the effort. In particular, less than 3 weeks after the new equipment arrived, Sandy shot the lowest score EVAR.

Plus, ended up winning the Golf Channel Amateur Tour flight for my group (WMI). Hows them beans, very nice.

So the new golf season for the north doth approach. And with it, the GCAT membership is in swing. We will see how the challenge goes this season in the tour as the competition is heated with outstanding players.