I posted this but didn’t add those pictures of stuff….that’s wierd. Why would that happen? Desi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For anyone that wanted to know….here are the exemptions or qualifers for the different majors and special events. US Open Exemptions L-1. All former winners of the U.S. Open Championship. L-2. All former winners of the U.S. Amateur Championship. L-3. All former winners of The Masters Tournament, the British Open Championship and PGA of America Championship. L-4. From the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship, U.S. Junior Amateur Championship and U.S. Mid-Amateur Championships, the winners the last three years (2000 – 2002), and the runners-up from the most recent year:       Junior Amateur       2000- Matthew Rosenfeld       2001- Henry Liaw       2002- Charlie Beljan/Zac Reynolds       Amateur Public Links       2000- D.J. Trahan       2001- Chez Reavie       2002- Ryan Moore/Lee Williamson       U.S. Mid-Amateur       2000- Greg Puga       2001- Tim Jackson       2002- George Zahringer/Jerry Courville L-5. Winner of the 2002 USGA Senior Amateur Championship. L-6. Winners of the British Amateur Championship the last three years (2000 – 2002). L-7. Quarterfinalists from the 2002 U.S. Amateur Championship. L-8. Playing members of the 1999 & 2002 Walker Cup and the 2000 & 2002 United States Men’s World Amateur Teams. L-9. Playing members of the United States and European Ryder Cup teams for the last ten years (1993-2002). L-10. Winners of PGA Tour co-sponsored events, whose victories are considered official, in the last three calendar years (2000, 2001, and 2002) and during the current year, through April 23 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-11. Winners of PGA European Tour Volvo Order of Merit Tournaments, Nationwide Tour, African Tour, Asian Tour, Japan Tour and Australasian Tour events, whose victories are considered official in the last calendar year and during the current year (2002 and 2003) throuh April 23 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-12. From the 2002 U.S. Open Championship, those returning scores for 72 holes. L-13. From the 2002 PGA of America and British Open Championships, and the Masters Tournament, the 30 lowest scorers and anyone tying for 30th place. L-14. From the 2002 final official PGA Tour money list, the top 125 money leaders; and from the final official PGA Tour money lists, the top 10 money leaders in each of the last three calendar years; and, any player who had multiple finishes in the top 125 money leaders the last five calendar years. L-15. From the 2003 PGA Tour official money list, the top 100 money leaders through April 23, 2003 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-16. From the official PGA Tour career money list, the top 50 money leaders as of the end of 2002. L-17. From the 2002 final official Nationwide Tour money list, the top 15 money leaders. L-18. From the 2003 PGA European Tour exemption categories, those players listed in categories numbered 1, 3, and 7. L-19. From the final 2002 World Rankings, the top 75 point leaders. L-20. From the current World Rankings, the top 100 point leaders as of April 23, 2003 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-21. Head professional at club hosting the Championship. L-22. Winner of the 2002 PGA of America Club Professional Championship. L-23. Any player whom the USGA Executive Committee selects for an exemption on the basis of his playing record (may be added to the field of 750 players, but must have filed an entry by April 23). British Open Exemptions:             FIRST 15 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 15TH PLACE IN THE 2002 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP            category 2            OPEN CHAMPIONS 1993-2002            category 3            OPEN CHAMPIONS AGED OF 65 OR UNDER ON 20 JULY 2003            category 4            THE FIRST 50 PLAYERS IN THE OFFICIAL WORLD RANKING AS AT 29 MAY 2003            category 5            FIRST 20 ON THE PGA EUROPEAN TOUR FINAL VOLVO ORDER OF MERIT FOR 2002            category 6            THE VOLVO PGA CHAMPIONS FOR 2000-2003            category 7            FIRST 5 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 5TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF THE PGA EUROPEAN TOUR VOLVO ORDER OF MERIT FOR 2003 AS AT 29 MAY            category 8            FIRST 7 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 7TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM ALL OFFICIAL PGA EUROPEAN TOUR EVENTS FROM THE VOLVO PGA CHAMPIONSHIP UP TO AND INCLUDING THE BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN            category 9            THE LEADING 8 PLAYERS, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (8) ABOVE, IN THE 2003 BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN            category 10            THE US OPEN CHAMPIONS FOR 1994-2003            category 11            THE US MASTERS CHAMPIONS FOR 1999-2003            category 12            THE USPGA CHAMPIONS FOR 1998-2002            category 13            THE USPGA TOUR PLAYERS CHAMPIONS FOR 2000-2003            category 14            FIRST 20 IN THE OFFICIAL MONEY LIST OF THE USPGA TOUR FOR 2002            category 15            FIRST 5 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 5TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 20 OF THE OFFICIAL MONEY LIST OF THE USPGA TOUR FOR 2003 AS AT 29 MAY            category 16            FIRST 7 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 7TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP AND THE FIVE USPGA TOUR EVENTS LEADING UP TO AND INCLUDING THE ADVIL WESTERN OPEN            category 17            THE LEADING 8 PLAYERS, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (16) ABOVE, IN THE 2003 ADVIL WESTERN OPEN            category 18            PLAYING MEMBERS OF THE 2002 RYDER CUP TEAMS            category 19            THE CANADIAN OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 20            THE JAPAN OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 21            FIRST PLACE ON THE ASIAN PGA DAVIDOFF TOUR FOR 2002            category 22            FIRST 3 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 3RD PLACE ON THE TOUR OF AUSTRALASIA FOR 2002/2003            category 23            FIRST 3 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 3RD PLACE ON THE JAPAN GOLF TOUR FOR 2002            category 24            FIRST 2 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 2ND PLACE ON THE SOUTHERN AFRICA PGA SUNSHINE TOUR FOR 2002/2003            category 25            THE LEADING PLAYER, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE 2003 MIZUNO OPEN            category 26            FIRST 4 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 4TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (25) ABOVE, IN THE TOP 20 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM ALL OFFICIAL 2003 JAPAN TOUR EVENTS FROM THE JAPAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP UP TO AND INCLUDING THE MIZUNO OPEN            category 27            THE SENIOR BRITISH OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 28            THE AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2003            category 29            THE US AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 30            THE EUROPEAN INDIVIDUAL AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2002 Masters Exemptions             1.            Masters Tournament Champions (Lifetime)             2.            US Open Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             3.            British Open Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             4.            PGA Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             5.            Winners of The Players Championship (3 years)             6.            Current US Amateur Champion (6-A) (Honorary, non-competing after 1 year) and the runner-up (6-B) to the current US Amateur Champion             7.            Current British Amateur Champion (Honorary, non-competing after 1 year)             8.            Current US Amateur Public Links Champion             9.            Current US Mid-Amateur Champion             10.            The first 16 players, including ties, in the 2002 Masters Tournament             11.            The first 8 players, including ties, in the 2002 US Open Championship             12.            The first 4 players, including ties, in the 2002 PGA Championship             13.            The first 4 players, including ties, in the 2002 British Open Championship             14.            The 40 leaders on the Final Official PGA Tour Money List for 2002             15.            The 10 leaders on the current year Official PGA Tour Money List published during the week prior to the 2003 Masters Tournament             16.            The 50 leaders on the Final Official World Golf Ranking for 2002             17.            The 50 leaders on the Official World Golf Ranking published during the week prior to the 2003 Masters PGA Championship Exemptions       No.      Criteria       1.      All former PGA Champions.       2.      Winners of the last five U.S. Opens (1998-2002).       3.      Winners of the last five Masters (1998-2002).       4.      Winners of the last five

… read more »

Response:

For anyone that wanted to know….here are the exemptions or qualifers for the different majors and special events. US Open Exemptions L-1. All former winners of the U.S. Open Championship. L-2. All former winners of the U.S. Amateur Championship. L-3. All former winners of The Masters Tournament, the British Open Championship and PGA of America Championship. L-4. From the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship, U.S. Junior Amateur Championship and U.S. Mid-Amateur Championships, the winners the last three years (2000 – 2002), and the runners-up from the most recent year:       Junior Amateur       2000- Matthew Rosenfeld       2001- Henry Liaw       2002- Charlie Beljan/Zac Reynolds       Amateur Public Links       2000- D.J. Trahan       2001- Chez Reavie       2002- Ryan Moore/Lee Williamson       U.S. Mid-Amateur       2000- Greg Puga       2001- Tim Jackson       2002- George Zahringer/Jerry Courville L-5. Winner of the 2002 USGA Senior Amateur Championship. L-6. Winners of the British Amateur Championship the last three years (2000 – 2002). L-7. Quarterfinalists from the 2002 U.S. Amateur Championship. L-8. Playing members of the 1999 & 2002 Walker Cup and the 2000 & 2002 United States Men’s World Amateur Teams. L-9. Playing members of the United States and European Ryder Cup teams for the last ten years (1993-2002). L-10. Winners of PGA Tour co-sponsored events, whose victories are considered official, in the last three calendar years (2000, 2001, and 2002) and during the current year, through April 23 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-11. Winners of PGA European Tour Volvo Order of Merit Tournaments, Nationwide Tour, African Tour, Asian Tour, Japan Tour and Australasian Tour events, whose victories are considered official in the last calendar year and during the current year (2002 and 2003) throuh April 23 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-12. From the 2002 U.S. Open Championship, those returning scores for 72 holes. L-13. From the 2002 PGA of America and British Open Championships, and the Masters Tournament, the 30 lowest scorers and anyone tying for 30th place. L-14. From the 2002 final official PGA Tour money list, the top 125 money leaders; and from the final official PGA Tour money lists, the top 10 money leaders in each of the last three calendar years; and, any player who had multiple finishes in the top 125 money leaders the last five calendar years. L-15. From the 2003 PGA Tour official money list, the top 100 money leaders through April 23, 2003 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-16. From the official PGA Tour career money list, the top 50 money leaders as of the end of 2002. L-17. From the 2002 final official Nationwide Tour money list, the top 15 money leaders. L-18. From the 2003 PGA European Tour exemption categories, those players listed in categories numbered 1, 3, and 7. L-19. From the final 2002 World Rankings, the top 75 point leaders. L-20. From the current World Rankings, the top 100 point leaders as of April 23, 2003 (must have filed an entry by April 23). L-21. Head professional at club hosting the Championship. L-22. Winner of the 2002 PGA of America Club Professional Championship. L-23. Any player whom the USGA Executive Committee selects for an exemption on the basis of his playing record (may be added to the field of 750 players, but must have filed an entry by April 23). British Open Exemptions:             FIRST 15 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 15TH PLACE IN THE 2002 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP            category 2            OPEN CHAMPIONS 1993-2002            category 3            OPEN CHAMPIONS AGED OF 65 OR UNDER ON 20 JULY 2003            category 4            THE FIRST 50 PLAYERS IN THE OFFICIAL WORLD RANKING AS AT 29 MAY 2003            category 5            FIRST 20 ON THE PGA EUROPEAN TOUR FINAL VOLVO ORDER OF MERIT FOR 2002            category 6            THE VOLVO PGA CHAMPIONS FOR 2000-2003            category 7            FIRST 5 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 5TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF THE PGA EUROPEAN TOUR VOLVO ORDER OF MERIT FOR 2003 AS AT 29 MAY            category 8            FIRST 7 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 7TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM ALL OFFICIAL PGA EUROPEAN TOUR EVENTS FROM THE VOLVO PGA CHAMPIONSHIP UP TO AND INCLUDING THE BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN            category 9            THE LEADING 8 PLAYERS, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (8) ABOVE, IN THE 2003 BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN            category 10            THE US OPEN CHAMPIONS FOR 1994-2003            category 11            THE US MASTERS CHAMPIONS FOR 1999-2003            category 12            THE USPGA CHAMPIONS FOR 1998-2002            category 13            THE USPGA TOUR PLAYERS CHAMPIONS FOR 2000-2003            category 14            FIRST 20 IN THE OFFICIAL MONEY LIST OF THE USPGA TOUR FOR 2002            category 15            FIRST 5 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 5TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 20 OF THE OFFICIAL MONEY LIST OF THE USPGA TOUR FOR 2003 AS AT 29 MAY            category 16            FIRST 7 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 7TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE TOP 25 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP AND THE FIVE USPGA TOUR EVENTS LEADING UP TO AND INCLUDING THE ADVIL WESTERN OPEN            category 17            THE LEADING 8 PLAYERS, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (16) ABOVE, IN THE 2003 ADVIL WESTERN OPEN            category 18            PLAYING MEMBERS OF THE 2002 RYDER CUP TEAMS            category 19            THE CANADIAN OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 20            THE JAPAN OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 21            FIRST PLACE ON THE ASIAN PGA DAVIDOFF TOUR FOR 2002            category 22            FIRST 3 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 3RD PLACE ON THE TOUR OF AUSTRALASIA FOR 2002/2003            category 23            FIRST 3 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 3RD PLACE ON THE JAPAN GOLF TOUR FOR 2002            category 24            FIRST 2 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 2ND PLACE ON THE SOUTHERN AFRICA PGA SUNSHINE TOUR FOR 2002/2003            category 25            THE LEADING PLAYER, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, IN THE 2003 MIZUNO OPEN            category 26            FIRST 4 AND ANYONE TYING FOR 4TH PLACE, NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT HAVING APPLIED (25) ABOVE, IN THE TOP 20 OF A CUMULATIVE MONEY LIST TAKEN FROM ALL OFFICIAL 2003 JAPAN TOUR EVENTS FROM THE JAPAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP UP TO AND INCLUDING THE MIZUNO OPEN            category 27            THE SENIOR BRITISH OPEN CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 28            THE AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2003            category 29            THE US AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2002            category 30            THE EUROPEAN INDIVIDUAL AMATEUR CHAMPION FOR 2002 Masters Exemptions             1.            Masters Tournament Champions (Lifetime)             2.            US Open Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             3.            British Open Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             4.            PGA Champions (Honorary, non-competing after 5 years)             5.            Winners of The Players Championship (3 years)             6.            Current US Amateur Champion (6-A) (Honorary, non-competing after 1 year) and the runner-up (6-B) to the current US Amateur Champion             7.            Current British Amateur Champion (Honorary, non-competing after 1 year)             8.            Current US Amateur Public Links Champion             9.            Current US Mid-Amateur Champion             10.            The first 16 players, including ties, in the 2002 Masters Tournament             11.            The first 8 players, including ties, in the 2002 US Open Championship             12.            The first 4 players, including ties, in the 2002 PGA Championship             13.            The first 4 players, including ties, in the 2002 British Open Championship             14.            The 40 leaders on the Final Official PGA Tour Money List for 2002             15.            The 10 leaders on the current year Official PGA Tour Money List published during the week prior to the 2003 Masters Tournament             16.            The 50 leaders on the Final Official World Golf Ranking for 2002             17.            The 50 leaders on the Official World Golf Ranking published during the week prior to the 2003 Masters PGA Championship Exemptions       No.      Criteria       1.      All former PGA Champions.       2.      Winners of the last five U.S. Opens (1998-2002).       3.      Winners of the last five Masters (1998-2002).       4.      Winners of the last five British Opens (1998-2002).       5.      The current (2002) Senior PGA Champion.       6.      The low 15 scorers and ties in the 2001 PGA Championship.       7.      The 25 low scorers in The 2002 PGA Club Professional Championship.       8.      The 70 leaders in official money standings from the 2001 Buick Open through the 2002 International.       9.      Members of the 1999 United States Ryder Cup Team.       10.      Winners of tournaments co-sponsored or approved by the PGA TOUR from the 2001 PGA Championship to the 2002 PGA Championship (does not include pro-am and team competitions).       11.      The PGA of America reserves the right to invite additional players not included in the categories listed above.       12.      Vacancies will be filled by the first available player from the list of alternates (those below 70th place in official money standingsThe PGA of America reserves the right to invite additional players not included in the … read more »

Response:

This could be the weakest European Ryder Cup team ever.

Everyone, including me, said the same thing last time and we came within an inch of pulling it off. The way it stands right now… Sam Torrance has to make two captains picks from Parnevik, Garcia, Olazabal, Jiminez, Langer, Woosnam, Faldo. I think the team needs the first five definitely. No doubt Parnevik and Garcia will get the picks. That means veterans like Olazabal, Jiminez, and Langer miss out.

Jiminez isn’t a Ryder Cup vet. But having seen the way that Woosie knuckled down to save his day on Sunday, I would like to see him make the team, maybe at the expense of Parnevik who lacks a bit of Euro-patriotic fire. The only hope is that three of the above list can qualify automatically knocking out chokers like Phillip Price, Paul McGinlay, and Andrew Coltart. I really can’t stand any of those three. If I was captain, I wouldn’t even use Price and Coltart because they are simply not very good. McGinlay might be a good foursomes player but he too chokes under pressure.

If Price qualifies, it will be on merit. I would rather see a consistent performer in the team than a flash-in-the-pan like Fulke. Fasth on the other hand looked real cool on Sunday and will be an asset. Its too late to worry about Fasth and Fulke. They have already qualified and besides, swedes always play well in the Ryder Cup. Let’s just hope Phillip Price doesn’t make it…

Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ DELETE X if replying

Response:

Here we go again We heard exactly this before most of the last 10 Ryder Cups. Then ‘weak’ or ‘unknown’  players like O’Connor,Canizares,Gilford,Clark,Rocca etc etc etc proved at least a match for America’s finest. You really *must* get out more.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This could be the weakest European Ryder Cup team ever. The way it stands right now… Sam Torrance has to make two captains picks from Parnevik, Garcia, Olazabal, Jiminez, Langer, Woosnam, Faldo. I think the team needs the first five definitely. No doubt Parnevik and Garcia will get the picks. That means veterans like Olazabal, Jiminez, and Langer miss out. The only hope is that three of the above list can qualify automatically knocking out chokers like Phillip Price, Paul McGinlay, and Andrew Coltart. I really can’t stand any of those three. If I was captain, I wouldn’t even use Price and Coltart because they are simply not very good. McGinlay might be a good foursomes player but he too chokes under pressure. Its too late to worry about Fasth and Fulke. They have already qualified and besides, swedes always play well in the Ryder Cup. Let’s just hope Phillip Price doesn’t make it… Hello, The Euro Ryder Cup selection system needs to change. Not, as some have suggested, by allowing more Captains selections. The problem is that individual tournaments have way too much influence on who becomes an automatic selection. That is one of the reasons why journeymen pro golfers like Philip Price and Niclas Fasth are going to end up in the 2001 team after having an exceptional performance in a single tournament. I actually agree that players like Jesper Parnevik who are not willing to support the European Tour, should not receive equal consideration in the selection process. Maybe a point system based on a whole slew of variables rather than the money list would strengthen the automatic selections in the future. I think, Philip Price, Niclas Fasth, Pierre Fulke, etc… are going to be major problems for the Euro Ryder Cup team in the competition in 2001. Regards, JB —— Kapow! Sic semper FIACs Individualist, anti clique rebel With Cliques we Fall Without Cliques we Stand

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, The Euro Ryder Cup selection system needs to change. Not, as some have suggested, by allowing more Captains selections. The problem is that individual tournaments have way too much influence on who becomes an automatic selection. That is one of the reasons why journeymen pro golfers like Philip Price and Niclas Fasth are going to end up in the 2001 team after having an exceptional performance in a single tournament. I actually agree that players like Jesper Parnevik who are not willing to support the European Tour, should not receive equal consideration in the selection process. Maybe a point system based on a whole slew of variables rather than the money list would strengthen the automatic selections in the future. I think, Philip Price, Niclas Fasth, Pierre Fulke, etc… are going to be major problems for the Euro Ryder Cup team in the competition in 2001. Regards, JB —— Kapow! Sic semper FIACs Individualist, anti clique rebel With Cliques we Fall Without Cliques we Stand

They ( Americans ) said the same about Paul Lawrie a few years back and I think he won ( maybe halved one ) all his matches at Brookline Cheers

Response:

This could be the weakest European Ryder Cup team ever. The way it stands right now… Sam Torrance has to make two captains picks from Parnevik, Garcia, Olazabal, Jiminez, Langer, Woosnam, Faldo. I think the team needs the first five definitely. No doubt Parnevik and Garcia will get the picks. That means veterans like Olazabal, Jiminez, and Langer miss out. The only hope is that three of the above list can qualify automatically knocking out chokers like Phillip Price, Paul McGinlay, and Andrew Coltart. I really can’t stand any of those three. If I was captain, I wouldn’t even use Price and Coltart because they are simply not very good. McGinlay might be a good foursomes player but he too chokes under pressure. Its too late to worry about Fasth and Fulke. They have already qualified and besides, swedes always play well in the Ryder Cup. Let’s just hope Phillip Price doesn’t make it…

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, The Euro Ryder Cup selection system needs to change. Not, as some have suggested, by allowing more Captains selections. The problem is that individual tournaments have way too much influence on who becomes an automatic selection. That is one of the reasons why journeymen pro golfers like Philip Price and Niclas Fasth are going to end up in the 2001 team after having an exceptional performance in a single tournament. I actually agree that players like Jesper Parnevik who are not willing to support the European Tour, should not receive equal consideration in the selection process. Maybe a point system based on a whole slew of variables rather than the money list would strengthen the automatic selections in the future. I think, Philip Price, Niclas Fasth, Pierre Fulke, etc… are going to be major problems for the Euro Ryder Cup team in the competition in 2001. Regards, JB —— Kapow! Sic semper FIACs Individualist, anti clique rebel With Cliques we Fall Without Cliques we Stand

Response:

As long as you are going to worry about players "supporting the Euro Tour", there will be problems. The players you mentioned won Euro events and placed well in others. Thus they qualify. The US PGA TOUR is the top golf tour in the world, and to criticise or try to use the Ryder Cup to limit highly competitive althetes from taking a shot at the best is ludicrous. This year, you will have Garcia, Parnevik and Jimenez, one of which who cannot make the team. If the selectio were based on world rankings, a Woosnam could be a Captain’s pick, if thety were retained. Rob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, The Euro Ryder Cup selection system needs to change. Not, as some have suggested, by allowing more Captains selections. The problem is that individual tournaments have way too much influence on who becomes an automatic selection. That is one of the reasons why journeymen pro golfers like Philip Price and Niclas Fasth are going to end up in the 2001 team after having an exceptional performance in a single tournament. I actually agree that players like Jesper Parnevik who are not willing to support the European Tour, should not receive equal consideration in the selection process. Maybe a point system based on a whole slew of variables rather than the money list would strengthen the automatic selections in the future. I think, Philip Price, Niclas Fasth, Pierre Fulke, etc… are going to be major problems for the Euro Ryder Cup team in the competition in 2001. Regards, JB —— Kapow! Sic semper FIACs Individualist, anti clique rebel With Cliques we Fall Without Cliques we Stand

Response:

Buddy of mine and I want to go over and play St. Andrews next April or May. I’d appreciate any and all comments about your trip there and lodging choices. Thanks

Response:

Assuming that one of the prime motivations for the trip is a desire to play the course and you can afford the fees, I would strongly suggest you arrange everything through a Tour Agency which can guarantee you entry to the course—As I assume you are aware, most starting times are reserved as part of a hotel/golf/tour packages–these are very pricey however–If you have connections, some friend may be able to arrange a time through one of the "Clubs" at St Andrews(most of the early links courses are community courses with some access given to "clubs" which have "clubhouses" near the courses–There is not a single integrated course/clubhouse as we have here–) Finally there are a few starting times each day which are not reserved as above which are available by lottery drawing the night before— Problem is you must be there and register the day before(you can not get a time by lottery in advance of your trip)–depending on the day of the week and the season(and weather predictions) your chances of being drawn vary from 5% during some periods to almost 50/50 during others– Final note, you must be a proficient golfer and illustrate a handicap of, I believe, 18 or less(You must present a letter attested by your pro and the Marshalls will watch you)–If you are having a bad day or on pace for an over 4 1/2 hour round the Marshalls will pull you off the course– If you get there and get on the course, its an experience you will cherish forever—Please note there are several other St Andrews courses in addition to the Old Course and most are certainly worth playing if you are there— Buddy of mine and I want to go over and play St. Andrews next April or May. I’d appreciate any and all comments about your trip there and lodging choices. Thanks

Before you buy.

Response:

Buddy of mine and I want to go over and play St. Andrews next April or May. I’d appreciate any and all comments about your trip there and lodging choices. Thanks

I was there all through Open week.  It is a marvellous place and I have no hesitation in recommending the place I stayed in, just 400 yds from the R&A Clubhouse. It is the Sporting Laird (www.sporting-laird.co.uk).  The owner there also organises golf tours, so he may be able to book you onto the Old Course or any other good ones nearby (Carnoustie, for instance). Otherwise, go to www.standrews.org.uk where you can book a tee time on line for next year right now. You must have a handicap of 24 or lower to play the Old Course and you must produce a handicap cert; no cert is needed for any of the other courses. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

on both sides of the 6′ mark.  (Well, this year they’re a bit biased on the over 6′ side, but some years the under 5′ crowd wins out.)

Joseph, I thinking your pushing your "short guys can drive" argument a little too far here. :^) — Jim * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

on both sides of the 6′ mark.  (Well, this year they’re a bit biased on the over 6′ side, but some years the under 5′ crowd wins out.) Joseph, I thinking your pushing your "short guys can drive" argument a little too far here. :^)

I think there was a typo ni theer somewhere.   -joseph — Joseph N. Hall … perl, golf, music, and so on Music          – http://www.digitalweapons.com Book           — http://www.effectiveperl.com The Usual Crap — http://www.5sigma.com/joseph

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Go back a while, you have Chi Chi Rodriguez, who is 5′7" and probably never cracked 140 lbs in his life except after Thanksgiving dinner, and who was a very long hitter for many years. Not to mention Emanuele Canonica. 5′2". Average driving distance this year ? 296.9 yards. And in the same "fireplug" department (or more like the orang-utan department) you have Ian Woosnam. Most of the short golfers who are long hitters have an obviously powerful build.  But there have been some long hitters of average height with skinny builds (like Chi Chi).

Jeff Sluman used to be known as a big hitter, and he’s a short guy. Fred Couples isn’t very tall, either… — Jeff Rogers http://www.rogersnetwork.com/

Response:

Go back a while, you have Chi Chi Rodriguez, who is 5′7" and probably never cracked 140 lbs in his life except after Thanksgiving dinner, and who was a very long hitter for many years. Not to mention Emanuele Canonica. 5′2". Average driving distance this year ? 296.9 yards.

And in the same "fireplug" department (or more like the orang-utan department) you have Ian Woosnam. Most of the short golfers who are long hitters have an obviously powerful build.  But there have been some long hitters of average height with skinny builds (like Chi Chi).   -joseph — Joseph N. Hall … perl, golf, music, and so on Music          – http://www.digitalweapons.com Book           — http://www.effectiveperl.com The Usual Crap — http://www.5sigma.com/joseph

Response:

Go back a while, you have Chi Chi Rodriguez, who is 5′7" and probably never cracked 140 lbs in his life except after Thanksgiving dinner, and who was a very long hitter for many years.

Not to mention Emanuele Canonica. 5′2". Average driving distance this year ? 296.9 yards. Best,     Jens

Response:

Go further back to the legendary Norman von Nida. Here was a guy who was (is) about 160cm (5′4") and weighed about 55kg or thereabouts. Probably could have been a jockey. In the few times he played against him, he smacked it close to the same distance as Sam Snead, who was a renowned big hitter of the time.

Snead isn’t a big guy, Hogan certainly wasn’t a big guy, and they were both very long hitters. Go back a while, you have Chi Chi Rodriguez, who is 5′7" and probably never cracked 140 lbs in his life except after Thanksgiving dinner, and who was a very long hitter for many years.   -joseph — Joseph N. Hall … perl, golf, music, and so on Music          – http://www.digitalweapons.com Book           — http://www.effectiveperl.com The Usual Crap — http://www.5sigma.com/joseph

Response:

Hi, If you read my previous post (thank you for all that replied), I’m a beginner and currently I can only drive about 150yds.  As I am not very, only 168cm, does this put me at a disadvantage when it comes to driving?  I would be happy if I could drive 200yds or more but is this possible with good technique and muscle development for someone of my height? Thanking you in advance, Dave D

Having played a round with 5 foot tall woman (maybe 5′2", 152-157 cm) with a nice athletic figure who drove the ball around 230 with a good but not perfect swing, I guess the answer must be "yes."   (She wasn’t that fantastic a golfer, 18 handicap perhaps, but she was fun to watch!) Unless you’re trying to hit the ball over 280 yards, muscle development has nothing to do with it.  And, surprising, height doesn’t matter that much either.  Long drivers of the golf ball are pretty evenly divided on both sides of the 6′ mark.  (Well, this year they’re a bit biased on the over 6′ side, but some years the under 5′ crowd wins out.)  Notice how these guys would generally stand about nose high next to most (for example) baseball players:   John Daly: 5′11"   Tiger Woods: 6′2"   Casey Martin: 6′2"   Scott McCarron: 5′10"   Phil Mickelson: 6′2"   Rory Sabbatini: 5′10"   Robert Allenby: 6′1"   Davis Love: 6′3"   Harrison Frazar: 6′0"   Stuart Appleby: 6′1" Now, the longest hitters of the golf ball aren’t on the PGA Tour.  In fact they aren’t on any big time golf tour at all.  Driving the ball 400 yards is a neat trick but it takes a lot of work to keep that trick going, which Tour golfers spend on their short game instead.  :-) How do you hit the ball a long way?  Any "average" sized man 5′8 or 5′9" tall in good health probably has the muscles to hit the ball 250+ yards on a dry fairway with a full, comfortable swing.  Hitting it that far is just a matter of developing an efficient motion.   -joseph — Joseph N. Hall … perl, golf, music, and so on Music          – http://www.digitalweapons.com Book           — http://www.effectiveperl.com The Usual Crap — http://www.5sigma.com/joseph

Response:

I played 13 rounds in two weeks, and uniformly the Scottish links courses had a feel unlike any course I’ve played in the US (I haven’t made it down to Bandon Dunes yet).  Rugged natural beauty, hard tight fairways, extremely penal bunkers, rock-like greens, and wind.  Once you’ve been over there you’ll never look at the British Open the same way again.  Here in the Pacific Northwest, every course that lacks trees calls itself a links course.  The next time one of these poser links courses plays up the Scottish theme, you’ll quietly snicker to yourself while thinking about real links golf.

Being a Vancouverite I know of what you speak.  I think we get wind and hard fairways about 3 days a year out here. Thx for the help. BT – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Rich Johnson Seattle, WA

Response:

I played the old course three years ago.  I set my time up four months in advance through Francine Atkin’s travel service (www.spectravel.com/atkins) along with the rest of my travel arrangements.  I gave her a wish list of courses and a budget, and she worked with me to set up an absolutely fabulous trip.  I have crossed paths with several others who have used her service, and all have had good luck.  I’m not sure if her prices are the best but her service is A1 and she provides what she promises.  I paid the equivalent of about $60 to play the Old Course, but I understand the price has taken a big jump in the last couple years.         I’ve heard the lottery system works well.  If you don’t get picked one day just go play any of the numerous other great courses within a half-hour drive, and try again the next.         As others have mentioned, you will need proof of your handicap, and at the time I played, I believe it had to be less that 24.  Troon Championship was even more strict, with a requirement of 18 or 20 I recall.  At the time I did not have a GHIN card, so my pro wrote me a letter of introduction on his letterhead.  They did ask to see it, so don’t leave home without one.  I still love the biting comment I read on a rules and regulations sheet: "You must provide documentation that you are indeed a golfer".         However you decide to set up your trip, do yourself a favor and read up on the history and courses before you go.  There are several good books on the subject.  This will allow you to more fully appreciate your surroundings.  Also, budget in an extra $50 and hire a caddy.  Besides giving you the time to soak in the ambiance, they will be a great tour guide, and probably shave 10 strokes off your first trip around the links.         If you get out to the west coast, my vote is for Western Gailes.  I recently read Tom Watson thinks of this as his favorite Scottish course, and I can understand his fondness.  It’s like Troon without the trailer park, seaside links golf at its finest.         I played 13 rounds in two weeks, and uniformly the Scottish links courses had a feel unlike any course I’ve played in the US (I haven’t made it down to Bandon Dunes yet).  Rugged natural beauty, hard tight fairways, extremely penal bunkers, rock-like greens, and wind.  Once you’ve been over there you’ll never look at the British Open the same way again.  Here in the Pacific Northwest, every course that lacks trees calls itself a links course.  The next time one of these poser links courses plays up the Scottish theme, you’ll quietly snicker to yourself while thinking about real links golf. Rich Johnson Seattle, WA

Response:

<< Anyone who has managed to play the old Course, let me know how you did it. 1. To get into the lottery you need at lest two players. If you have two, give St. Andrews a ring or write and they’ll tell you all about it. 2. A tour operator can guarantee you a tee-time.  3. Otherwise, players with no tee-times line up at the crack of dawn at the starter’s booth (I was there at 6 am in September and was 11th in line. I teed off before noon). Good luck.

Response:

Hi I’m planning a trip to Scotland next June and was wondering how to guarantee a tee time at St. Andrew’s Old Course.  I know there is a lottery system but i wonder if advance reservations are possible or if you need to hook up with a golf tour agency to be assured a spot. Anyone who has managed to play the old Course, let me know how you did it. Thx in advance.

Go to http://www.standrews.org.uk/booking They have an online booking system there and are taking bookings for next year now.  I’m sure Barrie’s advice is well meaning, but note that the R&A don’t own any course.  St Andrews is a muni!! Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

I was just there and played on June 3.  Guaranteed times are available through the ‘Old Course Experience’ (see the Links Trust web site), but cost 995 GBP per person for 2 nights at the Old Course Hotel and 1 round on the Old Course and 1 round on a different course.  I feel that this is basically paying $800-$1000 to play the Old Course.  I think that you can write to the Links Trust for advance booking; see the web site http://www.standrews.org.uk/booking/booking.html What we did was to enter the lottery (ballot).  I called the day before we wanted to play (you must call before 2:00 PM on the day before or on Saturday if you want to play on Monday).  You must enter either 2 players or 4 players, and you are not allowed to make up names!  We had a 2-ball, and we got in!  There were a number of singles on the tee when we arrived, and we were paired up with 2 of them.  If you are by yourself, or you don’t mind not playing with your travel partners, then just get to the starter as soon as he opens shop and put your name on his list of singles.  Also, you WILL need a handicap card!  This was the only course which asked us for it, and I saw one person without one turned away very very disappointed. By the way, the Old Course is closed every Sunday.  It is closed quite often for tournaments also.  Call them when you are making plans to see which days the course will be open for general play.  I can’t stress this enough.  If you can, try and plan on staying in St. Andrews during a time when there are several days possible to play.  I recommend playing the Old Course more than once.  I wish I had been able to.  It is a fun course to play for the first time, and would be much better the second time. There are a number of courses in St. Andrews to play on for any days you don’t get on the Old Course.  There is the New, Eden, Jubilee, … and several others.  Nearby is Crail and Carnoustie.  Down by Edinburgh is North Berwick, Gullane, and Muirfield.  Any of these can be done on a day trip from St. Andrews. Try and play Troon and Turnberry if you can.  They are fun also.  I’ve heard that the courses in the north are excellent (eg. Dornoch, Nairn, Cruden Bay). For St. Andrews information go to: http://www.standrews.org.uk/main.html There is a newsletter on this site with course open/close dates for the upcoming couple of months.  It’s got the phone number for the Links Trust also, so call them if you can’t find what you need.  They are very nice and helpful. By the way, I lined up all of my trip with the exception of the St. Andrews tee time with: http://www.teetimescotland.com Douglas McKenzie was extremely helpful and set us up with a great trip. Good Luck.

Response:

There was an article on this very subject in the most recent issue of Golf Magazine that give a preview of the British Open (or just plain Open depending on your state of mind). Hi I’m planning a trip to Scotland next June and was wondering how to guarantee a tee time at St. Andrew’s Old Course.  I know there is a lottery system but i wonder if advance reservations are possible or if you need to hook up with a golf tour agency to be assured a spot. Anyone who has managed to play the old Course, let me know how you did it. Thx in advance. BT — Press any key to continue or any other key to quit…

– John Pflum, Jr. PKG Consultants, Inc. 5533 Fair Lane Cincinnati, Ohio   45227 Web: http://www.pkgconsult.com

Response:

Hi I’m planning a trip to Scotland next June and was wondering how to guarantee a tee time at St. Andrew’s Old Course.  I know there is a lottery system but i wonder if advance reservations are possible or if you need to hook up with a golf tour agency to be assured a spot. Anyone who has managed to play the old Course, let me know how you did it. Thx in advance. BT — Press any key to continue or any other key to quit…

Response:

reservations are only guaranteed if you go through a tour group.  If you know anyone within the club, they’re an avenue.  You could try getting a letter from your club president, and forwarding it to the secretary of the R&A, but its a long shot. I played St Andrews twice, and made arrangements when I landed in the UK. Got on both times, once had to use an artificial mat rather than the fairway, due to problems with the grass.  And remember, the course is closed on Sundays – public access for walkers. Dunlop

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi I’m planning a trip to Scotland next June and was wondering how to guarantee a tee time at St. Andrew’s Old Course.  I know there is a lottery system but i wonder if advance reservations are possible or if you need to hook up with a golf tour agency to be assured a spot. Anyone who has managed to play the old Course, let me know how you did it. Thx in advance. BT — Press any key to continue or any other key to quit…

Response:

Can anybody advise me of some good courses to play in and around Cork City Ireland? A group of us intend a golf tour there during July this year many thanks Pes

Response:

play ballybunion…it is a fantastic course (although tough and quite pricey) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anybody advise me of some good courses to play in and around Cork City Ireland? A group of us intend a golf tour there during July this year many thanks Pes

Response:

Dear Friends I am looking for your help. We are a Scottish Golf Tour Operator and we are presently putting together our itineraries for the year 2000. We have space probably for another couple of itineraries in our schedules. I would like to ask you as an experienced golfer what your ultimate Scottish Golfing Vacation would be, so that we can try and emulate it. What courses would you want to play? What Scottish cities would you like to visit? What would make that top Scottish Golfing Vacation? I look forward to you responses. Our current website is www.golfandfishsco.co.uk it has a full listing of top Scottish Golf Clubs if anyone thinks that it will help them. Many Thanks Barry. Before you buy.

Response:

I am sorry if I offended you, it certainly is not my purpose to do so. I am only letting you know that the product is there and asking for your help.

And that’s a COMMERCIAL spam…It doesn’t belong here…and it’s not wanted here… Does it require nastygrams to your ISP? or can you take a hint? ]]]Z[[[

Response:

Whatever.  It’s sad.  You are a commercial operator and it is a commercial site.  If you look at the rsg charter, it is SPAM.  Have a nice holiday yourself. Art

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How much can you disguise SPAM?  Not even a good effort. Art Art I thank you very much for your reply but I must admit that I find it very dissapointing. I would like to clear a few aspects up. This is not what you describe as SPAM, it is a genuine request to know exactly what American golfers want from a golfing vacation in Scotland. I have posted it to a golf discussion group and my post has a golfing theme. Yes, I have mentioned our web site address, but it is not splashed all over my message and is only mentioned discreetly. It is a genuine golfing web site and not a web site advertising hoovers, washing machines or Penis Enlargements. I am basically letting you know that our service is there and genuinly looking for your advice. I have avoided shouting, and, as mentioned, suggested the web site only as a discussion to let you know that we have this service available. Art, if you look at the web site and you don’t like what is there, you don’t have to buy – I am not forcing you to do so. It is a democratic world that we live in today. I am sorry if I offended you, it certainly is not my purpose to do so. I am only letting you know that the product is there and asking for your help. Have a Happy Christmas. Barry. Before you buy.

Response:

How much can you disguise SPAM?  Not even a good effort. Art

Art I thank you very much for your reply but I must admit that I find it very dissapointing. I would like to clear a few aspects up. This is not what you describe as SPAM, it is a genuine request to know exactly what American golfers want from a golfing vacation in Scotland. I have posted it to a golf discussion group and my post has a golfing theme. Yes, I have mentioned our web site address, but it is not splashed all over my message and is only mentioned discreetly. It is a genuine golfing web site and not a web site advertising hoovers, washing machines or Penis Enlargements. I am basically letting you know that our service is there and genuinly looking for your advice. I have avoided shouting, and, as mentioned, suggested the web site only as a discussion to let you know that we have this service available. Art, if you look at the web site and you don’t like what is there, you don’t have to buy – I am not forcing you to do so. It is a democratic world that we live in today. I am sorry if I offended you, it certainly is not my purpose to do so. I am only letting you know that the product is there and asking for your help. Have a Happy Christmas. Barry. Before you buy.

Response:

How much can you disguise SPAM?  Not even a good effort. Art

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dear Friends I am looking for your help. We are a Scottish Golf Tour Operator and we are presently putting together our itineraries for the year 2000. We have space probably for another couple of itineraries in our schedules. I would like to ask you as an experienced golfer what your ultimate Scottish Golfing Vacation would be, so that we can try and emulate it. What courses would you want to play? What Scottish cities would you like to visit? What would make that top Scottish Golfing Vacation? I look forward to you responses. Our current website is www.golfandfishsco.co.uk it has a full listing of top Scottish Golf Clubs if anyone thinks that it will help them. Many Thanks Barry. Before you buy.

Response:

To begin, I am a single digit golfer. Noise has never bothered my concentration in any sport. golf, tennis, and polo are the sports that until the fifties, were limited to the idle, and supposedly gentile upper crust. All other sports encourage screaming, cheering, and partinship. Tennis has finally dropped the ladylike applause for a good play, or a win and allowed the common man to vent his or her emotions.  I can’t understand why golf has technichally moved into the modern day, and still feels that people have to walk on eggs while someone who hits a thousand balls a day, usually holding a conversation with a room temperatue I.Q. ex golfer who asks questions that a six year old cold answer, needs absolute quiet when he or she is on the course.  I guess they have never played a course that is bordered by a freeway or an airport.    It’s time to realize, that if they want the big bucks, they have to put up with the peons that make it possible.

Response:

  I can’t understand why golf has technichally moved into the modern day, and still feels that people have to walk on eggs while someone who hits a thousand balls a day, usually holding a conversation with a room temperatue I.Q. ex golfer who asks questions that a six year old cold answer, needs absolute quiet when he or she is on the course.

You’re just plain making this up and you know it.  Tell you what.  Here’s a little thought experiment.  A few of us will follow you around and make a few, ahem, noises as you make your shots.  We’ll even put a little money on it.  We’ll see if you’re still a "single digit golfer" after a few rounds.  I guarantee you it’ll be the most unpleasant golfing experience of your life.   -joseph

Response:

What this really demonstrates is the utter stupidity and insidious impact on the game of the WGC events.  They really should not exist — and certainly they should not count as official money.  They really screw up the money list — and will destroy the importance of most all PGA tour events. We already have a World Golf Tour — its the majors.

I hope that the quality of the play in the American Express Championship has convinced you otherwise. I don’t know about you, but I’d like to see the best players in the world get together more than 4 times a years.   -joseph

Response:

What this really demonstrates is the utter stupidity and insidious impact on the game of the WGC events.  They really should not exist — and certainly they should not count as official money.

I agree. But my ideal model for the official money list has long ago been lost in TV and commercial manipulations…. namely that only events with a level playing field, ie open to the full Tour, should qualify for the official money list. I think it is crazy the way it works now, which effectively means that the more you win, the more you win. Sure, let them play in funny-money ‘elite’ events if that’s what everyone wants – but don’t let these limited field events cloud the official money list. Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Sorry … but what is the struggle?    Non PGA Tour players can obtain their tour cards for next year this way.  Sergio Garcia, John Van de Velde, & Paul Lawrie all have talked about being American PGA Tour players next year — since they have all won their 2000 card by finishing in the top-125 this year. If Tiger wants to be a European tour player next year — he can due to his Euro tour winnings.  He would just have to play a minimum number of events. What this really demonstrates is the utter stupidity and insidious impact on the game of the WGC events.  They really should not exist — and certainly they should not count as official money.  They really screw up the money list — and will destroy the importance of most all PGA tour events. We already have a World Golf Tour — its the majors.

The Majors are not really a World Golf Tour aren’t they. How many Euro’s can compete in the Masters, PGA. While the qualification for "the Open" is more open than others. Getting a playing field on basis of a Worldwide list, disregard the fact how crummy the list is made up, is better than being able to invite people on what ever basis they make up. YJ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Greed will hurt this game ….. Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Yeah, I thought this was pretty funny when I realized it.  Imagine being Monty and being confronted by the possibility of "winning" the Order of Merit while in fact being #2 on the money list behind a guy who isn’t even on the tour!  Now I bet that’s something that has never happened before.  It couldn’t have happened without the WGC, though. I need to get my head round this. Could someone please explain what would happen in a hypothetical reverse-case scenario where, say, a British golfer wins all 3 WGC events but is not a member of the US Tour. Do his winnings qualify him to be included on the US money list? Let’s take it a ridiculous step further and the same guy wins all four majors too. Now he’s #1 in the US (and European) money list and also #1 in the World rankings, all without being a member of the US Tour. All of this is possible, right? I’m struggling, as you can see… Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

So exclude the Euros, if they don’t want to compete openly and fairly with the best in the world. Rob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What this really demonstrates is the utter stupidity and insidious impact on the game of the WGC events.  They really should not exist — and certainly they should not count as official money.  They really screw up the money list — and will destroy the importance of most all PGA tour events. We already have a World Golf Tour — its the majors. I hope that the quality of the play in the American Express Championship has convinced you otherwise. I don’t know about you, but I’d like to see the best players in the world get together more than 4 times a years.   -joseph

Response:

Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Rob

This is a prime example of how stupid it is to try and gauge a players greatness on the basis of ‘how much money he’s won’. — Phil Nixon

Response:

Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings!

Yeah, I thought this was pretty funny when I realized it.  Imagine being Monty and being confronted by the possibility of "winning" the Order of Merit while in fact being #2 on the money list behind a guy who isn’t even on the tour!  Now I bet that’s something that has never happened before.  It couldn’t have happened without the WGC, though.   -joseph

Response:

Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Yeah, I thought this was pretty funny when I realized it.  Imagine being Monty and being confronted by the possibility of "winning" the Order of Merit while in fact being #2 on the money list behind a guy who isn’t even on the tour!  Now I bet that’s something that has never happened before.  It couldn’t have happened without the WGC, though.

I need to get my head round this. Could someone please explain what would happen in a hypothetical reverse-case scenario where, say, a British golfer wins all 3 WGC events but is not a member of the US Tour. Do his winnings qualify him to be included on the US money list? Let’s take it a ridiculous step further and the same guy wins all four majors too. Now he’s #1 in the US (and European) money list and also #1 in the World rankings, all without being a member of the US Tour. All of this is possible, right? I’m struggling, as you can see… Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Yeah, I thought this was pretty funny when I realized it.  Imagine being Monty and being confronted by the possibility of "winning" the Order of Merit while in fact being #2 on the money list behind a guy who isn’t even on the tour!  Now I bet that’s something that has never happened before.  It couldn’t have happened without the WGC, though. I need to get my head round this. Could someone please explain what would happen in a hypothetical reverse-case scenario where, say, a British golfer wins all 3 WGC events but is not a member of the US Tour. Do his winnings qualify him to be included on the US money list? Let’s take it a ridiculous step further and the same guy wins all four majors too. Now he’s #1 in the US (and European) money list and also #1 in the World rankings, all without being a member of the US Tour. All of this is possible, right? I’m struggling, as you can see…

It’s possible. You can play in a lot of US Tour events without being on the tour, and if you won most of them, you could win the money title. Rob

Response:

Sorry … but what is the struggle?    Non PGA Tour players can obtain their tour cards for next year this way.  Sergio Garcia, John Van de Velde, & Paul Lawrie all have talked about being American PGA Tour players next year — since they have all won their 2000 card by finishing in the top-125 this year. If Tiger wants to be a European tour player next year — he can due to his Euro tour winnings.  He would just have to play a minimum number of events. What this really demonstrates is the utter stupidity and insidious impact on the game of the WGC events.  They really should not exist — and certainly they should not count as official money.  They really screw up the money list — and will destroy the importance of most all PGA tour events. We already have a World Golf Tour — its the majors. Greed will hurt this game ….. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Yeah, I thought this was pretty funny when I realized it.  Imagine being Monty and being confronted by the possibility of "winning" the Order of Merit while in fact being #2 on the money list behind a guy who isn’t even on the tour!  Now I bet that’s something that has never happened before.  It couldn’t have happened without the WGC, though. I need to get my head round this. Could someone please explain what would happen in a hypothetical reverse-case scenario where, say, a British golfer wins all 3 WGC events but is not a member of the US Tour. Do his winnings qualify him to be included on the US money list? Let’s take it a ridiculous step further and the same guy wins all four majors too. Now he’s #1 in the US (and European) money list and also #1 in the World rankings, all without being a member of the US Tour. All of this is possible, right? I’m struggling, as you can see… Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

Of course, Monty, the probable Order of Merit winner IS NOT the leading money winner on the Euro Tour, Tiger Woods is! And given how Woods has played this year, he has a pretty good chance of finishing higher than any Euro at Valderama, and thus being the leading money winner on the Euro Tour…but not the order of merit winner. Will he whine? Will he even care? I doubt either.

You’ve lost me there. Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

Monty; 20 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.2 million. Tiger; 7 Official Euro Tour events. $US2.4 million. 1 more event left. Tiger wins, and he could be over $US1 million ahead of the Order of Merit winner in official earnings! Rob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Of course, Monty, the probable Order of Merit winner IS NOT the leading money winner on the Euro Tour, Tiger Woods is! And given how Woods has played this year, he has a pretty good chance of finishing higher than any Euro at Valderama, and thus being the leading money winner on the Euro Tour…but not the order of merit winner. Will he whine? Will he even care? I doubt either. You’ve lost me there. Stan — Stan The Man +++Naked Under This Macintosh+++ If replying, DELETE X

Response:

I watched the Euro Tour Weekly report on the Golf Channel today, and guess what? A piece that was another whine about the Ryder Cup! GET OVER IT! Of course, Monty, the probable Order of Merit winner IS NOT the leading money winner on the Euro Tour, Tiger Woods is! And given how Woods has played this year, he has a pretty good chance of finishing higher than any Euro at Valderama, and thus being the leading money winner on the Euro Tour…but not the order of merit winner. Will he whine? Will he even care? I doubt either. Rob

Response:

Greetings Elisa, Glad you enjoyed the Mike DuBose article… He’s a super nice guy and he welcomed us (to do the interview) during a very difficult time: just days before the season opener — boy, i’m sure glad we won … that would have killed our September issue. (;D) Kidding aside, i wish everyone realized how much he loves this university. Not just because of football, he loves the community, the people … look what he does for charity through the Mike DuBose Golf Tour: for retarded children, homeless, orphaned… i hope he’s around for a long time. In the next few months our Celebrity Golfer Profile will feature Alabamians like Bart Starr, Kenny Stabler, Charles Barkley, Randy Owen (from the group "Alabama") and Tommy Tubberville, although Tommy is not really considered an Alabama boy just yet. LOL (:D) thanks again your friend, b http://alabamagolfclub.com ps: when you’re back in bama look us up, a free round of golf is waitin for ya! Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

test message Greetings Elisa, Glad you enjoyed the Mike DuBose article… He’s a super nice guy and he

welcomed us (to do the interview) during a very difficult time: just days

before the season opener — boy, i’m sure glad we won … that would have

killed our September issue. (;D) Kidding aside, i wish everyone

realized how much he loves this university. Not just because of

football, he loves the community, the people … look what he does for

charity through the Mike DuBose Golf Tour: for retarded children,

homeless, orphaned… i hope he’s around for a long time. In the next few months our Celebrity

Golfer Profile will feature Alabamians like Bart Starr, Kenny

Stabler, Charles Barkley, Randy Owen (from the group "Alabama") and Tommy

Tubberville, although Tommy is not really considered an Alabama boy just yet. LOL (:D) thanks again your friend, b http://alabamagolfclub.com ps: when you’re back in bama look us

up, a free round of golf is waitin for ya!

Share what you know. Learn what you

don’t.

Response:

We prefer to call ourselves "Chronologically Challenged" Ray Plotecia

Gee, Ray, that sounds like you can’t tell time.  Or is that one of the symptoms? Old man crawford.

Response:

We have difficulty believing the date on our birth certificates. Superannuated Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We prefer to call ourselves "Chronologically Challenged" Ray Plotecia Gee, Ray, that sounds like you can’t tell time.  Or is that one of the symptoms? Old man crawford.

Response:

Yeah, but Charlie, YOU have discovered the fountain of Youth ! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Old man crawford.

Response:

Meet ST at the Powerman Race this year. He signed an old copy of one of his books for me. First rate all the way!!! "Iron" Mike

Response:

We prefer to call ourselves "Chronologically Challenged" Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Look who’s talking about ancient. Snippage… I love this sport and it is a shame to see so many pros "retire" when they see they cannot make a living at it. If enough pro’s get out and do things like the Legends, it will attract attention like the Senior Golf Tour and whatever that tennis thing is where Connors is still playing McEnroe. With a little work, Legends might be able to attract enough sponsorship so some ancient pros might be able to make a living at it. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD

Response:

Look who’s talking about ancient.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Snippage… I love this sport and it is a shame to see so many pros "retire" when they see they cannot make a living at it. If enough pro’s get out and do things like the Legends, it will attract attention like the Senior Golf Tour and whatever that tennis thing is where Connors is still playing McEnroe. With a little work, Legends might be able to attract enough sponsorship so some ancient pros might be able to make a living at it. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD

Response:

Steve: Excellent story. It is very inspiring to see "ST" so active in our sport today. I will always hold a very high regard to the original "Big 4". Ten years ago we could only read about these guys. We now have opportunities to interact with these guys personally at some of the larger triathlon events in the country. I find it intriguing to meet the person behind these truly exceptional athletes. Cheers- Keith Ironman Triathlon Wetsuits Webster: www.ironmanwetsuits.com toll free order line: 800-897-6464 international calls: 804-288-6000

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – While racing (suffering) at Columbia yesterday, I experienced something that reminded me just how special and unique the sport of the triathlon is. After a less than fish-like swim and extremely challenging bike (if you’ve raced Columbia, you know what I mean), I headed out onto the run in hopes of a PR performance.  But having such heady thoughts on this course are a recipe for self-destruction and I wasn’t 200 yards into the roller-coaster run before the legs starting to cramp and my pace slowed.  Realizing that this truly would be the "training race" that I had planned, I decided to settle in and make the most of it.  A bit demoralized by the abuse I had taken, I tried to remain positive.  Just at the that moment, I glanced to my right and, to my amazement, there was Scott Tinley emerging from the bushes (need you ask why?).  As Tinley trotted up beside me, we struck up a conversation.  I jokingly asked what he was doing so far back in the race – having started in the open wave. Turns out ST had stopped to help a junior-girl fix a flat out of the course. Distraught over her possible missed opportunity to make the USAT Junior Team, ST gave up his race in an effort to help her acheive her goal.  Never a quitter, ST had apparently decided to make the most of this beautiful course and simply enjoy the day with fellow triathletes in the pack.  I managed to run with ST for a mile or so before he moved on up to surely inspire others to make the most of their race day, no matter where they were in the field or how pathetically slow they were plodding up the relentless hills. Although I finished well off my desired time, ST made my Columbia experience one that I will never forget.  How many other sports can you think of that provide an opportunity to compete along side such legends as Scott Tinley? ST is a class act.  He made my day and I thank him for that. Steve Kelley

Response:

Scott Tinley , with his actions at Columbia, relly define the word "class" thanks again Scott for helping to make triathlon a great sport, I almost feel bad about giving you that drafting penalty two years ago. — Bruce Platt Chairman, USA Triathlon Safety & Rules Committee USA Triathlon Cat 1 Official

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Scott and I have been friends for a very long time.  We run together on tuesday mornings now and then when we are both in town. I am 39 now, but next year I will qualify to compete in the Legends catagory. I agree it is a great opportunity for those us us who plan on doing triathlons for the rest of our lives to keep at against some pretty tough competition.  I race age group in the bigger races for USAT points and national team qualifying, and elite when there is an elite category in the local races. I love this sport and it is a shame to see so many pros "retire" when they see they cannot make a living at it. Emilio De Soto II Triathlete/President and Designer De Soto Sport Triathlon Clothing Email me for a free catalog

Response:

I think this is an example of our sport being unique,
in that we race (‘we’ being every Joe-average triathlete)
on exactly the same course, and usually at the same
time, as the best in the sport. Try that on the tennis
court, the golf course, the football field, etc etc.
That’s why it’s cool to be a triathlete !!
Cheers
Barry
   -**** Posted from RemarQ, http://www.remarq.com/?a ****-  Search and Read Usenet Discussions in your Browser – FREE –

Response:

Snippage… I love this sport and it is a shame to see so many pros "retire" when they see they cannot make a living at it.

If enough pro’s get out and do things like the Legends, it will attract attention like the Senior Golf Tour and whatever that tennis thing is where Connors is still playing McEnroe. With a little work, Legends might be able to attract enough sponsorship so some ancient pros might be able to make a living at it. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD

Response:

You can also do this in water skiing. Competitive water skiiers have tournaments where pros/open skiiers participate, and they’re very willing to help out with judging, boat driving, and giving pointers. I used to think that water skiing was unique in that aspect until I began to get to know some pro triathletes in my area. I have been able to ski with some of the world’s best water skiiers at ski schools in Florida, and get instruction from them for free. I was pretty much shocked when one of the world’s best, Kristy Overton, came up and did a clinic with my local ski club, and invited me and a few others down to her private lake in Florida for some skiing – a couple of the guys actually took her up on it and went down, said they had a super time. You could never get so close up to the pros in other sports like you can in triathlon and water skiing, just try to go onto the field and jump into a pro football or baseball game. Schwing

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think this is an example of our sport being unique, in that we race (‘we’ being every Joe-average triathlete) on exactly the same course, and usually at the same time, as the best in the sport. Try that on the tennis court, the golf course, the football field, etc etc. That’s why it’s cool to be a triathlete !! Cheers Barry    -**** Posted from RemarQ, http://www.remarq.com/?a ****-  Search and Read Usenet Discussions in your Browser – FREE –

Response:

I spoke at length with Scott at the expo, the day  before Columbia.  We were discussing his "Legends" competition wherein pro’s (the old guys) come out and race against each other, and I guess any masters who want to see how they can do against them. I think this is a great way of keeping guys like the Big Four in the sport and around for us to appreciate what they’ve done and can still do.  Scott said that it was difficult to get the older guys to come out and race again. I wish Race Directors and ancient pro’s (women too) would support this kind of competition.  I think it is very good for the growth and PR of our sport and much good can come from it. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD

Response:

I think this is a great way of keeping guys like the Big Four in the sport and around for us to appreciate what they’ve done and can still do. Scott said that it was difficult to get the older guys to come out and race again. I wish Race Directors and ancient pro’s (women too) would support this kind of competition.  I think it is very good for the growth and PR of our sport and much good can come from it.

It seems Mister Tinley has accomplished something psychologically difficult in his racing full time long past his promenience.  It must take a very strong ego to make it to the top, and it seems a majority of athletes who make it to that level, with the possible exception of runners, retire and go into Investment Banking or something when they are past their peak; they do something where they don’t have to face the fact that they are no longer at the top. Never having spoken with ST but as an avid fan of his monthly column, he seems to have developed some great philosophy, not to mention humor – things that stick with one long after the PR’s are all in the past. Probably some good things to adopt in there somewhere. (but I don’t need any of that *stuff* ’cause my PR’s are all in the future…really!) Eric Pederson (still <40) — === Real triathletes DRINK draft. —Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.—

Response:

Scott and I have been friends for a very long time.  We run together on tuesday mornings now and then when we are both in town. I am 39 now, but next year I will qualify to compete in the Legends catagory. I agree it is a great opportunity for those us us who plan on doing triathlons for the rest of our lives to keep at against some pretty tough competition.  I race age group in the bigger races for USAT points and national team qualifying, and elite when there is an elite category in the local races.  I love this sport and it is a shame to see so many pros "retire" when they see they cannot make a living at it. Emilio De Soto II Triathlete/President and Designer De Soto Sport Triathlon Clothing Email me for a free catalog

Response:

While racing (suffering) at Columbia yesterday, I experienced something that reminded me just how special and unique the sport of the triathlon is.  After a less than fish-like swim and extremely challenging bike (if you’ve raced Columbia, you know what I mean), I headed out onto the run in hopes of a PR performance.  But having such heady thoughts on this course are a recipe for self-destruction and I wasn’t 200 yards into the roller-coaster run before the legs starting to cramp and my pace slowed.  Realizing that this truly would be the "training race" that I had planned, I decided to settle in and make the most of it.  A bit demoralized by the abuse I had taken, I tried to remain positive.  Just at the that moment, I glanced to my right and, to my amazement, there was Scott Tinley emerging from the bushes (need you ask why?).  As Tinley trotted up beside me, we struck up a conversation.  I jokingly asked what he was doing so far back in the race – having started in the open wave.  Turns out ST had stopped to help a junior-girl fix a flat out of the course.  Distraught over her possible missed opportunity to make the USAT Junior Team, ST gave up his race in an effort to help her acheive her goal.  Never a quitter, ST had apparently decided to make the most of this beautiful course and simply enjoy the day with fellow triathletes in the pack.  I managed to run with ST for a mile or so before he moved on up to surely inspire others to make the most of their race day, no matter where they were in the field or how pathetically slow they were plodding up the relentless hills.   Although I finished well off my desired time, ST made my Columbia experience one that I will never forget.  How many other sports can you think of that provide an opportunity to compete along side such legends as Scott Tinley?  ST is a class act.  He made my day and I thank him for that.   Steve Kelley  

Response: