Farmstead Golf Links finishing hole is one of the “18 most fun holes in America,” says Golf Digest

The edited headline above is from a recent press release I received. Having played Farmstead less than a month ago I can assure you that #18 is unique and quite challenging. However, do not judge Farmstead on this one quirky hole. The course is a great layout and one you’ll want to add to your “must play” list.

Following is more of the story. 

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (December 17, 2010) - Farmstead Golf Links in Calabash, NC, on the northern end of Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand, has one of the “most fun holes you can play in America,” according to an article in Golf Digest's January 2011 issue. Golf Digest Architecture Editor Ron Whitten selected Farmstead's closing hole as one of his “home run” holes, and his final pick in a stellar line-up of courses that feature floating targets, overstuffed greens and rocky challenges.

The par 6 hole at 767 yards from the tips is “so impossibly long,” wrote Whitten, that “you tee off in South Carolina and putt out in North Carolina.” Farmstead Golf Links' mammoth 18th hole is the only par 6 on Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand. A favorite among visiting golfers and locals alike, it actually begins with a drive into a wide, sweeping fairway in South Carolina and concludes on a large undulating green in North Carolina.

Myrtle Beach winter golf means value

There really isn’t a bad season to play golf in Myrtle Beach, including winter. Actually, “winter golf” should be considered the “Value Golf Season.” Package prices are at their absolute lowest. Both accommodations and golf courses are collectively offering their best rates! It is the only time of the year where both are at their best value and that makes for some great package prices.

Average highs in December (59º), January (57º) and February (60º) make for a very pleasant round. Sure, you’re going to catch the occasional frost delay. There’s also a good chance you’ll be playing golf in the high 60s, low 70s. The only downside might be we’re off Daylight Savings Time. You’ll be hard pressed to play 36!

Unlike years past, the Myrtle Beach area is vibrant during the winter months. Few businesses close, but there are less traffic challenges. Many of the restaurants and attractions offer discounts in appreciation for your business. The savings are abundant in the “Value Golf Season.”

Checkout our “Value Golf Season Packages” and make plans today. You’ll be glad you did.

More Tiger, fewer pundits

Thank goodness Tiger Woods played well at the Chevron this past week. If he had simply been in the middle of the pack, the pundits would have nothing to write about. Now, they can unanimously declare “He’s Back!”

Let me be clear. I’m a Tiger fan, stand in awe of his achievements and am ready for his return to the leader board. However, I’m not a fan of all Tiger, all the time reporting by the hordes of golf reporters.

I certainly do not pay any attention to their views on just where Tiger’s swing, focus and competitiveness stand. If you’re a golf fan, you’ll know exactly where he stands. One hack went so far as to predict a major and three additional championships in 2011 for Tiger. He stumbled through a justification and then went to collect his paycheck.

Graeme McDowell won the Chevron coming from four strokes back. That was quite an accomplishment. In fact it was quite a year for McDowell with a major and clinch of the Ryder Cup for Europe. His story did get some coverage buried in the “Tiger articles.”

I’m ready for more Tiger on the tournament leader boards. I can do without the scores of golf contributors offering their views.

An LPGA opportunity

Did you happen to catch the Golf Channel reporting on the Alexis Thompson petition? Here’s the background. Thompson is a 15-year old golfer from Florida that turned professional earlier in the year. In limited action on the LPGA tour she won more than $330,000. Note, that she is not a member of the LPGA. To be a member the requirement is 18-years of age.

Back to the petition – she is requesting the LPGA tour allow her to play in 12 events this season, via sponsor exemptions. Presently, the tour only allows an individual, non-LPGA member 6 tournaments under sponsor exemption. She is not petitioning to become a member of the LPGA, just asking to play 6 additional events.

I do not see how the LPGA and its commissioner Mike Whan can say no. First and foremost, she’s a tremendous talent. Frankly, the LPGA needs her star power. With leader boards that are more and more becoming crowded with international players, the LPGA would welcome an American contender. The question they face is how do you position that yes vote.

American Golf Census says, “Get Counted!”

The American Golf Census is counting as many of the country’s 27 million golfers as possible. Being counted shows your support of the game and lets policymakers better understand how golf enhances the lives of millions of Americans from all walks of life. All registrants are automatically entered into golf's most spectacular sweepstakes totaling more than $100,000 in prizes! The prize package includes the latest golf equipment from Taylor Made, Callaway and Nike - Dream travel for two to Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, Southwest Ireland and Pinehurst - Not to mention, a once-in-a-lifetime April weekend in Augusta, GA, and golf instruction at the ANNIKA Academy. Visit http://www.americangolfcensus.org/ to be counted and maybe win big!

One-dimensional?

Recently, our local newspaper carried a Letter to the Editor from a gentleman that seems to regularly offer his opinions on golf subjects. The article began with a walk down memory lane that reminded we “chronologically challenged” readers of the munies we grew up playing.

No tee times, no carts, carry bags and a course that was fairly straightforward. Place your ball in the rack and when it was your turn tee it up. Where I grew-up the nine hole public course featured 4-holes on each side of the railroad tracks and then back over the tracks to the Par 3 No, 9 finishing hole. Separate tee boxes gave a slightly different look to the 2^nd nine, but the tracks were still there.

All was well with the gentleman’s “Letter” until he began pontificating and portrayed golf course design as one-dimensional. He further described today’s courses as “monstrously long and difficult.” I beg to differ.

During the past twelve months I’ve had the privilege to play more than 30-Myrtle Beach area golf courses. I’m a writer doing 20+ course reviews each year and an average, mid-teen handicap golfer. Thank goodness I’m a better writer than I am a golfer.

Granted there are some monstrously long and difficult holes, but I’ve found this area’s courses quite playable. The one thing they have in common is their diversity. A case in point is reflected in the two Glen’s course we played last week. Heather Glen Golf Links and Glen Dornoch Waterway Golf are in name and positioning quite similar. However, both are quite different in playability, length and visual appeal. I thoroughly enjoyed and had fun on both golf courses, but for decidedly different reasons.

If you’re concerned with distance and difficulty, play from the tees that are appropriate for your handicap. However, if you’re concerned with playing one-dimensional golf courses on your Myrtle Beach trip, talk to your golf director. Make sure they know you’re looking for golf course variety. There are plenty of courses to consider and they’ll be happy to accommodate you. 

Has golf become information overload?

Ryder Cup team competition is by far my favorite televised golf event. It’s been a long two years since Boo galloped down the fairway, but this coming Monday the hype begins again. Everything will be analyzed to death by a horde of golf reporters. Frankly, I can do without their yakking.

If Phil and Tiger play together, so be it. If Fowler proves to be a wise choice, so be it. If the quiet Furyk takes a leadership role, so be it. Just let them play!!!

Back in “the day” there were three national publications and a few regional magazines dedicated to golf. Most golfers subscribed with game improvement as their objective. It was a simpler time and television was just beginning golf coverage. Now, we have even more print vehicles, a ton of online from web sites to eMagazines and a television channel dedicated to golf with their own web site of course.

At the risk of oversimplification, which I’m about to do, that’s entirely to much media dedicated to golf. If you’re like me, you have information overload! More and more I’m tuning out the talking heads and only coming back for tournament coverage.

Most of us play golf because we love the game, not the drama.

LPGA member, Conway native McPherson honored

MURRELLS INLET, SC (September 16, 2010) – Kristy McPherson has been honored with induction into the University of South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame. She was a three-time First-Team All-American; two-time South Eastern Conference (SEC) individual champion and SEC Player of the Year in her senior year. She has finished second in her last two LPGA events the CN Canadian Women's Open, where she closed with a 66, and the P&G NW Arkansas Championship, where she shot consecutive 68s in the final two rounds. Those two strong showings have allowed her to climb to 23^rd on this year’s LPGA money list.

Perkinson captures World Amateur Championship

MURRELLS INLET, SC (September 3, 2010) – Bobby Perkinson of Alcoa, TN made double bogey on the par-4 ninth hole at the TPC of Myrtle Beach on Friday afternoon. However, the 74-year-old retiree still shot his age for a net 3-under-par 69 and a one-stroke win in the nearly 3,100-player event. Three players tied for second place - Bob Butler from Massachusetts, Chetan Suman Dosh from India and Joseph Williams from West Virginia.

The Golf.com World Amateur Handicap Championship held annually in the latter part of August is a premier golf tournament. Utilizing more than 50-Myrtle Beach area golf courses the event is for every player with a verifiable handicap. As soon as we have the 2011 dates, we’ll get them posted. See you at the 19^th hole!

Can we get tee times from August 28th through September 2nd?

There’s not another golf destination in the world that can host 3100 golfers on 52 area courses and still say, “come on down we’ve got plenty of room!” August 30^th through September 2^nd the Myrtle Beach area hosts the Golf.com World Amateur Handicap Championship. Practice rounds and pre-tournament warm-up events actually begin as early as Friday the 27^th. That’s a week of great golf.

Even though you might not be playing in the World Amateur, there’s still plenty of room for your group’s quick get away. And there’s plenty of tee times and great golf awaiting you.  Check in with the Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts golf director and staff to get the ball rolling. 800-682-5699 or http://www.myrtlebeachgolf.net/

Handicapping the FedEx Cup virtually impossible

The FedEx Cup playoffs get under way this week at The Barclays with no clear favorite.  Usually, Woods would be most everyone’s choice, but he’s at No. 112 in the standings, between Bob Estes and Cameron Beckman. Besides, we're saving Tiger for the Ryder Cup.

Ernie Els is on top of the standings with 2 wins and 6 top 10 finishes. Furyk, Stricker, Rose and Mahan also have 2 wins and impressive top 10 finishes. Michelson, Overton, Bubba Watson, Kuchar and Clark round out the top 10 in the standings, each with good credentials.  Dustin Johnson is lurking at No. 11.

So, who raises their game to the top and walks away with the FedEx Cup?  Of the players with 1 win, Michelson is probably the favorite choice. Frankly, I’m a little tired of hearing “a win captures the world No. 1 ranking from Tiger” line. Overton hasn’t won a tournament this year. Bubba’s not ready. Kuchar’s too nice. Clark had his moment and Johnson has a cold.

I think the winner comes from a player with 2 wins this year. Els, Furyk and Stricker are great choices if you like steady. Each is built for the long haul the FedEx Cup requires. Rose was hot earlier in the year, but I’m going out on a limb and choose Hunter Mahan.

Life is good for Mahan. He has a pair of wins for the year, 3 top 10 finishes and recently married a former Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. The FedEx Cup is the only thing missing and of course all newly weds need an extra $10 million.

While on this site, take a look at the great golf packages in Myrtle Beach and get yourself and some friends down here! The courses are in great shape and the weather has been spectacular. You may even want to take a cruise on the new Aquasino and get a little sports book on Hunter Mahan. However, if you have even half a brain you’ll avoid my prognostications and just play golf!

What can we say about the PGA Championship?

With all the turmoil involving local favorite Dustin Johnson – and I’ll get to that in a moment – we witnessed a pretty good golf tournament.  “Phil Fans” saw a strong finish by their boy that promises hope for the future. The “Young Guns” shined with many of them getting a taste of being in contention, but showing their not quite ready. Even the “Old Guard” was well represented by Elkington and Furyk.  Of course my pick to win showed signs of the former golfer know as Tiger Woods, but in the end he showed his game isn’t back, yet.

Most importantly congratulations to Martin Kaymer and Bubba Watson.  Kaymer made the putt he had to make and Watson’s charge on the back nine reminded many of Arnie’s charges. In the end Kaymer’s game prevailed.

Regarding Dustin you have to feel for him.  Nothing about the incident was right.  There’s no reason for the PGA to have bunkers in-play that far behind the ropes.  I don’t care that everyone should have known.  There’s no reason the fans should be allowed to tear-up those bunkers.  There’s no reason a rules official was not with the leader.  There’s no reason the Marshall did not clear those spectators from the bunker. There’s no reason that Johnson’s caddy didn’t alert him before walking off.  Finally, there’s no reason for Dustin Johnson not to know the local rule that brought the bunker into play.

With all the “No Reasons” one stands out.  Dustin and his caddy should have been aware of the local rule. They should have been clear headed enough to recognize the situation.  Would this have happened with Phil and Bones, or Tiger and Stevie? I don’t think the caddies would have allowed such a glaring error. 

Who’s the favorite this week?

Where did this PGA season go?  Already we’re into the opening round of the PGA Championship at Whistling Straits. Michelson’s win at the Masters was a 2010 highlight. McDowell holding on while my hometown favorite melted away provided a U.S. Open that was painful to watch. A virtual unknown won the Open in a Tiger like “no quarter given” fashion. So, what does the PGA Championship hold for us?

Frankly, who knows? We have Michelson coming off a 78 final round at the Bridgestone. Although Tiger’s 77 final round was better, his tournament score of plus 18 was awful. Our U.S. Open winner is for real, but I have no idea if the Open winner (What was that South African’s name?) is even in the field. The No. 3 ranked player in the world is mending and an analyst is fighting a Ryder Cup Captain! If you’ve caught some of my past postings, you know I’m no fan of golf reporters and analysts.

With all that said I believe this is the week that Tiger Woods rights the ship. We know he’s at his best in the Majors. Frankly, even in this most trying of seasons, he has been respectable in the Majors. Remember, I picked Dustin Johnson to win the U.s. Open and looked like a prophet until Dustin played his front nine on sunday. Maybe Tiger can avoid the meltdown.

 

Ranking golf courses

Of late Myrtle Beach area golf courses have fared quite well in various “Best of…” categories. The awards are well deserved. How rankings are done varies by publication, but people that know what they’re doing do all.

I have never been provided the opportunity to rank courses for major golf publications. I do have the opportunity to annually author more than 25 course reviews for web sites and regional publications.

My system of review is simple and begins with always being able to find something good about every golf course. From that point there are four basic criteria that contribute to a course’s character.

1. Hospitality: Simply stated there’s no reason for visiting golfers to ever be treated poorly. A good experience with the bag drop, pro shop and starter gets you started in the right frame of mind. Bad experiences upon arrival have the opposite impact on your day.
2. Playability: At the risk of oversimplification playability simply means that you’ll shoot a favorable score regardless of your index or ability. Forced carries, extended dog legs, and in play hazards are not the primary character of the course.
3. Challenge: Not every golf course falls into the “challenge” category, but each needs to have some holes that do. Big drop offs between the No. 1 and No. 3 handicap holes does not a challenging golf course make.
4. Beauty: A golf course that’s appealing to the eye ranks high in my book. I’m from the school that believes a bad day on the golf course is better than a good day at work. Next time you’re first in the hole and holding the flag, look back down the fairway and enjoy the moment.

One caution is in order. If you start thinking too much about the four points above, you’ll lose concentration and your game will suffer. That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!

Makin’ the turn

Every once and a while we like to drop a few words about something strange that happens on the golf course. I’m talking about something stranger than my swing. Here’s one your going to love.

July 4^th was a great day for our family to play golf. The weather at the beach was perfect with unseasonably pleasant temperatures, clear skies and a slight breeze. We called Myrtle Beach National first thing in the morning and made a 2:00 PM tee time for Kings North.

It looked like we might have this premium course to ourselves! No other players were checking-in, the range was vacant and the starter said we were wide open. We played the front nine without seeing another golfer until we got to No. 9 and noticed a single on the green.

We made a quick stop at the clubhouse for a drink and some crackers and went directly to No. 10. Just getting out of their carts at the tee box was a foursome! They were not in the clubhouse. They were not behind us. They were not in front of us. Where did these guys come from???

I asked, “Did you just finish the front nine? Are you sure you’re on the right course?” There are three 18-hole layouts at MB National. They assured me they had just finished the front nine on Kings North.

We watched as they teed off. They were all over the place. We immediately headed to No. 11 with plans to play No. 10 at the end of the round. We tend to play quickly and had some fun dinner plans for that evening. I did not want to wait one minute on our mystery foursome.

Writing this I still have no idea where these guys came from. In fact it’s almost comical, but they must have belonged there. As they teed off on No. 10 there wasn’t any question from the ranger. However, once we finished No. 18 and headed to No. 10 tee, he was right there asking where we were headed. We quickly shared the story, had a good chuckle and finished our round.

No, I do not believe alien golfers invaded Myrtle Beach! 

That’s swing thought number 12

When a shot goes astray, I’ll often blame “Swing Thought Number 12.” That’s the one found just in the beginning of my backswing! There are still 37 swing thoughts to follow.

Between advice from a dozen golf publications, the Golf Channel’s instructional shows, on-air tournament analysis and of course our helpful friends, we are blessed with hundreds of tips and pointers about our swing. It’s information overload. With the exception of our friends (and who listens to their advice) none of the others have ever seen our swing.

If you are really interested in game improvement, get help and direction from a PGA instructor. The Myrtle Beach area is blessed with both some great teaching pros and wonderful golf schools.

I know you’re not coming to the beach for golf lessons. You’re coming to wear the grips off your clubs and play some outstanding courses. However, do not give-up on some game improvement just because you’re interested in playing as many holes as possible.

Since many golfers to the area return with their families, a morning clinic or private lesson during your vacation might be just what the doctor ordered. There are numerous opportunities and your accommodations golf director will steer you in the right direction.

If you’re a family of golfers (like our three generations), a vacation that focuses on golf instruction is appropriate. A few years ago it was our Christmas present and all had a great time. Again, work with your golf director and they’ll help you put something together. They’re knowledgeable about more than tee time availabilities.

Most area courses are more than willing to go the extra mile for their visiting golfers. With enough advance notice a short clinic prior to your group’s tee times can be arranged.

Take advantage of the instructional opportunities available to you through teaching professionals. You’ll find the game is a lot more enjoyable when you can eliminate those 40+ swing thoughts.

He’ll be back

Like most golf fans I cringed as Dustin Johnson fell apart on his way to a final round 82 at the U.S. Open. The championship was there for the taking. In a previous blog I picked Johnson to win.  I overlooked his inexperience and previous poor Sunday rounds.

Although I do not know the young man, everything I’ve read and heard says he has the character and mental toughness to close the deal on a Sunday. Call me a “homer,” but I thoroughly believe this 26-year old has more than enough game to win a major, soon.  

So many choices. So little time.

With the U.S. Open beginning today at Pebble Beach there has been the usual build-up. The media is attempting to stir us into a frenzied state of anticipation. Personally that’s exactly what I like about the majors.

Since promotion of this year’s event began I’ve changed my favorites as often as I’ve change my shirt. With the temperatures soaring well into the 90s in Myrtle Beach twice a day shirt changes are in order. Call me crazy but I really do enjoy playing golf on the hottest days of the year. Anyway back to the point.

I always begin thinking one of my two favorite players is sure to win the major tournament soon to begin. I’m a fan of Phil Mickelson and hometown pro Dustin Johnson.

Of course along comes that darn Golf Channel. With “all Tiger all the time” coverage they cast that seed of doubt in my mind. Maybe the world’s number one is back on track. We’ve all seen him do some miraculous things in the majors.

Of course the media doesn’t stop with Tiger. They tell us there’s a youth movement this year. Guys with big belt buckles, less than conservative clothing and an absolutely fearless attitude could very well prevail. The 20 something’s have won on some big stages this year. I really believe Anthony Kim is ready to make a splash.

But, those media types are not done with me yet! How about those foreign players! Lee Westwood is playing great golf this year. McIlroy won in Charlotte and Justin Rose won Jack’s tournament at Muirfield. It just makes to much sense to ignore a foreign player’s chance. Maybe a young foreign player will walk away with this year’s U.S. Open trophy.

You can see my dilemma. According to the media gurus, just about everyone in the field could win this tournament. Left with that thought I recalled what a mentor from 40-years ago told me, “Given to many choices, most people will choose not to decide.”

With that sage advice in mind, I’ll ignore the Golf Channel gurus and announce that a young gun that seems to win regularly at Pebble will prevail. Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson will be paired Sunday and Dustin wins a very close U.S. Open.

      

Hats off to the guys with the mowers

Over the past four/five weeks I’ve been fortunate to have played more than my share of golf. It’s one of the great advantages to living in the “Seaside Golf Capital of the World.” One of the true beauties of the Myrtle Beach area golf product is the tremendous diversity of courses.

This Northeast corner of South Carolina and Southeast corner of North Carolina read like a virtual “Who’s Who” of golf course design. Names like Fazio, Maples, Dye, Byrd, Nicklaus, Palmer, Player, Floyd and many others resound throughout the golf community. Although, courses may share a similarity each is distinct in its own way.

However with all that said the Myrtle Beach area courses I’ve played this late spring and early summer share one very distinct feature. They are in great shape! Frankly, I was concerned how the area would recover from the unusually wet and cold winter we experienced.

Well my hat is off to the area golf course superintendents and their crews. These folks did yeoman like work this year under challenging weather conditions. Couple weather and difficult budget times when 2009 play was off considerably and you have to respect the folks that work their miracles every day.

Next time you play a round of golf and really appreciate the condition of the course find out the superintendent’s name. Drop him an e-mail of appreciation for his work.

Two area courses have closed holes to make renovations on greens.

Panther's Run Golf Links at Ocean Ridge Plantation and nine holes at the 27-hole Sandpiper Bay Golf and Country Club have closed to change greens from Penncross Bentgrass to the more heat tolerant MiniVerde Ultradwarf Bermudagrass.

River Club in the Litchfield Beach area was scheduled to close June 23 to replace A1 Bentgrass with Champions Bermuda.  The owner/management group, Myrtle Beach National Company, has decided to keep the course open until at least next summer.

Possum Trot is on schedule to reopen June 18^th after rebuilding and resodding 5-greens.  Reports are that golfers will be very pleased with the renovations.

You have a friend in Myrtle Beach

Recently, a friend asked, “Are packaged golf rounds down?” He had heard that more and more visiting golfers were making their own tee times. The question might be irrelevant. Golfers are still playing golf on area courses and staying in Myrtle Beach area accommodations. However, there’s more to it than that.

To me if you have access to expertise that fits the job, it would be wise to use that tool. The golf directors at the major hotel/condo groups have the local knowledge, experience and expertise to assure your vacation is a success.

Consider the following. Everyday your golf director is talking to golf courses and golfers throughout the Myrtle Beach area. They have their finger on the pulse of area golf. Which courses are scheduling routine maintenance and service? What’s the drive time to the courses chosen? How much time should be allowed for breakfast? What are the courses replay policy? You have the questions. Your golf director has the answer.

Remember too that your golf director is probably getting a better price at a golf course than what you’re seeing advertised. He deals with the courses year around and sends substantial business their way. Of course he’s getting their best price and passing it on to you. Remember the golf director is not marking-up the cost of golf. He’s being paid by the hotel/condo for selling rooms, not tee times and breakfasts.

You’re certainly welcome to book your room and start calling courses for the best tee times available. Do remember though that Myrtle Beach golf success was built on the incredible cooperation and networking between accommodations and golf courses. This partnership has made the Myrtle Beach area the No. 1 golf destination in the world. In the center of this great destination is your golf director. Put him to work for you, today.

To much Tiger?

Recently, John Hawkins a GolfChannel.com contributor authored an article titled “With or Without You.” It was not an editorial about your buddies threatening to leave for a Myrtle Beach golf vacation – with or without you. It was all about Tiger Woods and the 2010 Ryder Cup.

Today, May 18^th TW is 10^th on the qualifying list. There are 8 automatic high points qualifiers with points awarded through August 15^th. Two Captain’s Choices will be made by Corey Pavin to round out the team. The article took some hard shots at TW. The edit went on at length about Team USA’s performance in winning at Valhalla without Woods.

What’s the point of the article? Do you really care what Hawkins has to say in mid-May about Woods Ryder Cup selection? Let’s be candid. This article isn’t really about the competition that pits the USA against Europe. This piece of opinion was written because Woods is media fodder. We’ve been forced to accept the “all about Tiger, all the time” golf journalist mantra.

These guys (golf writers) are hacks and frankly I’m fed-up with them. I’m continuously finding more insightful writing in local and regional publications and blogs like this one than what’s presented in the national rags and broadcast outlets.

I admit I’ve never been a huge Tiger fan. I further admit to being a huge Ryder Cup fan. Maybe mixing the two in a negative way, as the GolfChannel.com’s Mr. Hawkins has done, just got my dander up.

To much Tiger coverage? Absolutely, but that’s just my opinion. What sayeth you?

Weighing in on the weight issue

Let’s begin by making it clear; we’re not discussing my expanding waist. What we are talking about is airlines charging for baggage, including carry-on and golf bags and how that’s impacting your travel plans.

Unfortunately, the rules are still evolving. To further complicate the matter airlines often revise their policy with little notification and even vary by how “large bag” is defined. With nine airlines serving Myrtle Beach and direct flights from 25 cities, it pays to double check with your carrier when making reservations. In lieu of bringing the clubs with you on the plane, here are a few options to consider.

Luggage shipping services have their place, but are a bit costly. On the positive side you can arrange to have your clubs picked-up at a precise time and have them waiting for you at either your accommodations, or golf course. Although the service is outstanding and gaining popularity, there is a cost. Using a round-trip estimate from central Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach the cost was slightly more than $232 for a large golf bag. For the identical roundtrip the estimated airline baggage charge exceeded $150. The two plane transfers the traveler would endure have me concerned. Would the clubs arrive with the golfer?

If flying is still your best option, you may want to consider handling the shipping of the clubs yourself. Between UPS Stores, Mail Boxes etc and numerous independent stores do-it-yourself shipping has become painless. We estimated the round trip from our central PA point of origination, including packing and insurance to be $160. Clubs will be waiting at either your hotel, or the golf course upon arrival. The one down side is making the arrangements for the return shipping from a Myrtle Beach area store. There are plenty of locations. Ask the accommodation’s golf director, if they can point you to one that’s convenient.

Of course rental clubs are always an option and most Myrtle Beach area golf courses have sets available. The cost is quite reasonable for a top of the line club set. This is a great solution, if you’re on a family vacation and wanting to get in a round while here. However, it doesn’t make much sense on a golf vacation. Arranging for a different set of clubs at every course for every round is a hassle.

For large groups (20+) you may want to consider leaving the driving to someone else. Consider chartering a motorcoach for the trip. Today’s coaches are nothing short of luxurious with DVD and monitors, comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage, including golf clubs. Do the math. With 20 guys renting a coach and driver at $1200 per day that’s only $60 per golfer, per day for complete transportation needs. This has become an increasingly popular option for groups of visiting golfers. Of course plenty of local transportation is available for guys in the group that want to do their own thing.

Short of the always-reliable packing up the family van solution, what’s your answer to the baggage issue? We’d like to hear from you.

Comment - A tournament that’s much more than great golf

A few weeks ago I attended a really good golf tournament. Although the tournament operated under the USGA rules of golf, this tournament was amateur in the purest sense. The Seahawk Invitational brought together thirteen local and regional high school golf teams.

Friday night was just fun golf with a get to know other high school players theme. A random draw produced teams comprised of kids representing different schools. Each team had a number 1-player through a number 6-player. They played a 9-hole captain’s choice format. Although mostly strangers for the first few holes, they quickly got to know each other and proceeded to have a good time.

Saturday was serious competition that ended in a 2-team tie and play off. An outstanding Columbia, SC team prevailed over an excellent team from the Charleston, SC area. The golf was great and I thoroughly enjoyed watching some very skilled athletes. However, there’s a much deeper story line than simply good golf.

Friday night after dinner, I sat on the clubhouse patio and watched 25-30 kids on a large putting green. A rainbow of colored golf shirts represented different high schools. I could not help but think that it’s 7:00 PM and somewhere there’s a high school kid headed for trouble this evening. However, right here there’s young men doing what they love and staying a long way from trouble.

The other part of the event that impressed me was the generosity of the golf course owners. With school budgets being cut drastically and many high school golf programs in peril, the only way a tournament of this nature could be done is with major contributions.

One of this area’s most popular courses the Avocet at Wild Wing Plantation was closed to play for a full Saturday in April, so these young people could compete. In addition the course pro directed the tournament with assistance from a very good staff. Water stations throughout the course and a nice cookout after play was all provided. The course was in great shape. I hope you’ll show your support of high school golf by playing the Avocet on your next Myrtle Beach golf vacation.

Please take a few minutes to find out what’s going-on with high school golf in your hometown. Get involved and help keep golf in the schools. Picking up the cost of a few dozen of the team’s preferred golf ball, or a contributing to the expense of the team shirts will certainly be helpful and appreciated. These young people are the future of the sport we love. Let’s give them every opportunity to enjoy all golf has to offer.  

So, what is the best time of year for a Myrtle Beach golf package?

Frequently, Myrtle Beach locals are asked, “What’s the best time of year for a golf package at the beach?” The immediate response is usually, “There really isn’t a bad time to visit and play some golf here.” We like to go beyond the stock answer and get specific. It doesn’t get any better than the days that surround that marvelous 2^nd Sunday in April.

Like Augusta, GA the Myrtle Beach area in early April is gorgeous. Azaleas and dogwoods are in full bloom and the trees are beginning to show their summer leaves. Temperatures are warming and fairways and greens are on their way to a lush green color. The setting for golf is perfect.

Watching the best golfers in the world perform on one of golf’s most beautiful stages can follow your morning tee times. On Thursday and Friday you might even have time for a replay. Many of the courses have large screen televisions in their lounge and there are countless venues in the area that will be showing the tournament.

Topping off your visit is the opportunity to rub elbows with professional golfers and celebrities at the 17^th Annual Hootie & the Blowfish Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am. Again, a morning tee time allows you plenty of opportunity to catch the fun at this charity event.

Playing golf on some great courses. Enjoying a premier major tournament. Getting up-close with professional golfers and celebrities. Not a bad time for a golf package to the Myrtle Beach area.

We’d like to hear from you. What’s your favorite time of year for a golf package to the Myrtle Beach area?

Comment - When it’s all over, you can only laugh

With few exceptions when we are matched with other players, it’s a good experience. By and large golfers are a pretty decent group of people that share a common interest, courtesies and respect for the game. In more than 40 years playing golf, I can literally count the bad experiences on one hand. Unfortunately, one of the worse occurrences happened just a few weeks ago.

I was playing on an absolutely gorgeous spring Sunday afternoon with two of my favorite ladies. Our friend’s husband and my grandson were paired with two young men from Western North Carolina and the ladies and I welcomed a local to our group. I should have sensed trouble when our player dropped a few not so choice words on the practice putting green!

As the round progressed it was apparent our addition (I choose not to use Will’s name.) had a very inflated opinion of his game. The F-bomb laced with other profanity was dropped on virtually every hole. Through the 14^th hole it got continuously worse, but by some miracle the ladies had only witnessed a few of his milder outbursts.

However, on No. 15 we observed a major meltdown. His pull hook drive hit a tree and clearly bounced out of bounds. “Turnip Head” with all his local knowledge was adamant he was not out of bounds and could find his ball. After the ladies and I hit our approach shots, we joined the search and I quickly showed him his ball – out of bounds. The profanity explosion was immediate followed by more bad shots. It only got worse.

A chunked tee shot on the Par 3 16^th brought vulgarity that surpassed all previous episodes. Suddenly a club went flying as the ladies were proceeding to their tees. It startled us. We had been patient, but confronted him with his behavior. To our shock he justified his actions by stating, “the club hadn’t hit anyone and his language was his business.” I quietly asked him to please play on without us and he arrogantly was on his way. Yes, I reported his behavior to the pro shop.

This was by far the worse experience I have ever had being paired with another golfer. However, we could barely stop laughing on the final few holes. When I pushed a drive well into the rough on No. 17, the ladies made a point of telling me, “Now, don’t go all Will on us!”

Opinion - There should be a multiple stroke penalty!

Following (at a distance) the countless Tiger Woods comments, slow play has probably been the next most posted golf subject.  Myrtle Beach Views has a comment on the latter.

We are really glad you’ve chosen the Myrtle Beach area for your golf vacation.  Welcome!  However, please leave that stupid ball retriever home.  There should be a two-stroke penalty for just having it in your bag! 

I am sure you would never buy one for yourself.  It certainly must be a gift presented by friends or family as a gag.  So, when everyone stops giggling please return that waste of money to the store and trade for some cheap balls. 

Of course the excuse I’ve heard more than once, “ I’d never use my ball retriever if someone is waiting behind me.”  Remember, someone is behind you and they’re coming!  You might not hold up play on that hole, but eventually they’ll catch you and have to wait.

Forget what I said earlier about that two-stroke penalty; let’s make it three-strokes.  Golf ball retrievers do contribute to slow play and they look foolish, too!  We’d like to hear what you believe contributes to slow play. 

Introduction

We’re talking about golf here, specifically Myrtle Beach golf.  I’ve lived in the area for 25-years and simply love the game.  I do not work in the golf industry.  I just enjoy writing, playing golf and being helpful to any visiting golfer that’s planning a trip to this great destination.

It all starts with reviews of the area golf courses.  If you don’t see your favorite course, or one that interests you, I just haven’t gotten around to writing the review.  I’ll also use this space to offer some news and notes that may interest both the Myrtle Beach visiting golfer and the local golfer. 

Every once in a while we’ll present an opinion on something golf oriented.  It may not be a subject exclusive to the Myrtle Beach area, but for certain something that all golfers can relate.  We may throw in a Myrtle Beach restaurant review on occasion and of course your opinions are welcomed and encouraged. Trust me we’ll be honest with you, but understand all of this is just one guy’s opinion!

Your comments are appreciated and I promise to respond just as soon as I have the answer to your question.  Become a follower, today and we'll keep you up-to-date with "what's new" and "what's coming" to the Myrtle Beach area.