Lots to cover, so without further ado....
I Always Knew It Would End in Tears - Glad to have not seen more than Golf Channel highlights, but what a long, strange trip it's been:
Michelle Wie has had a rough year — at least as far as her competitive golf career is concerned. Back in October, Wie revealed that she had undergone hand surgery and would be out for the remainder of the season. When the 2019 LPGA season began inFebruary, Wie finished T-23 at the Honda LPGA Thailand, but had to withdraw during the first round of the following week’s HSBC Women’s World Championship due to lingering issues with her right hand.
Wie intended to play the Kia Classic in late March, but also ended up withdrawing from that event. She then missed the cut at her next two events, the ANA Inspiration in Rancho Mirage, Calif. and the LOTTE Championship in her native Hawaii, before announcing in April that she would be shutting things down again for an undisclosed amount of time to let her hand continue to heal.
In May, Wie announced she would withdraw from the upcoming U.S. Women’s Open in Charleston, the season’s second major championship. Wie’s appearance at Hazeltine National for this week’s KPMG Women’s PGA Championship was hotly anticipated, as it’s her first competitive start since April. In her pre-tournament press conference, Wie said she began the week “feeling hopeful”, but those good feelings quickly dissolved after her first round at Hazeltine National.
The oddest of careers for sure, in which she seemingly peaked at age 14....
“It’s just one of those situations where I’m not, you know, I’m not entirely sure how much more I have left in me,” said Wie, “so even on the bad days I’m just like trying totake time to enjoy it. But it’s tough.”
In a rare display of emotion, Wie broke down in front of a small group of reporters huddled under the awning of Hazeltine’s clubhouse.
For anyone who ever wondered if Wie really loved this game, if she played for herself or for her parents or for endorsement dollars, one look into her eyes as the tears started to well up revealed a glimpse inside her heart.
She wanted to be here.
Now is not the time to eulogize her career, but we can find solace in the fact that her personal life seems in a good place.
Higher Ground - Gearhead Mike Stachura has a deep-dive on CBD oil, the alleged cure for whatever ails you. But first, a rebuttal of that header:
Before we go farther, a brief science lesson. First, CBD is not marijuana. Rather, it is one of many cannabinoids or compounds that can be extracted from the cannabis plants that include the closely related marijuana and hemp plants. CBD and THC are the two
Obama did admit to a bit of tokeage in his youth. compounds that get the most attention when it comes to cannabis research. THC is the psychoactive element that produces marijuana’s high. CBD is not psychoactive, and according to a World Health Organization report, unlike THC, CBD “is generally well tolerated, with a good safety profile. . . . [and] is not associated with abuse potential.”
Unlike marijuana, which is not a legal substance in most states, hemp-derived CBD got what amounted to a federal endorsement with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. That legislation legalized the production of hemp, which previously had fallen under a 1937 law that essentially prohibited the production of all cannabis plants. (In recent years, 10 states have legalized marijuana for recreational use, and most others allow it with a prescription.)
Think it's only the former Prez using? I don't want hear any denials, the left-handed club is the tell. But, anyone curious about those big names suddenly chomping on chewing gum?
CBD companies already have secured endorsement contracts with PGA Tour players, and rumors swirled at the Masters that Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods were using CBD products, including tincture and chewing gum. Though video surfaced of Mickelson taking a swig from a dropper mid-round, neither have indicated they use CBD products, and representatives for both players did not respond to requests for comment in early June.
Regardless, CBD is not merely a fringe product being whispered about in golf circles but nearly mainstream. Ben & Jerry’s has promised its customers that a CBD-infused ice-cream flavor is coming. In May, CBD company Medterra announced a deal with Worldwide Golf to sell its products in golf ’s second-largest retail chain. CBD products even are sold in the golf shop at Muirfield Village, and head pro Larry Dornisch says he has reordered the supply twice already this season.
But what does it do? It's harder than you might expect to get that answered, as the lede indicates that it treats just about everything:
As it turns out, what he found might be the hottest product in golf this year. In fact, it might be the hottest product in any industry this year. Cannabidiol, or CBD, a compound extracted from cannabis plants, is finding its way into everything from droppers of ingestible oils and topical creams to pizza and milkshakes. Its claims of curative powers seem to run the gamut of diseases and maladies, from Alzheimer’s and cancer to first-tee jitters and golfer’s elbow.
Alzheimer's to first-tee jitters? Thanks for narrowing it down, guys.... I used to get nervous on the first tee, but now I can't remember whether I do or not...
This seems more credible, if only because it's more focused:
“I’ll be careful in what we can talk about, but yes, I think golf and CBD are a natural fit,” he says, specifically referring to using a topical cream to loosen up sore and stiff muscles and joints. “With CBD having the potential to be a really strong anti-inflammatory, I think it really can work well with all ages as they either get ready for their next round or practice session or recover from the round they finished. Certainly golfers who are struggling with those issues should be strongly considering CBD.”
There is a sense that CBD is seen as a critical asset for members of golf ’s aging population, possibly keeping them in the game longer. And if they stay in the game longer, they continue to spend money on their games.
“CBD might not grow the game, but is it possible it could help the game from shrink ing and losing players?” says Fryia, the retailer. “I don’t know, but it’s something worth talking about. A guy who just gets fed up with pain or frustration—who knows what this might do for him?”
So, it cures shrinkage? They'll makes billions if they can substantiate that claim.
Scenes From Hartford - These guys are good except, you know, when they're not.... Submitted for your approval, an example of the latter:
Jason Kokrak has been among the steadiest players on the PGA Tour this season. He has
Some days it's simply not worth the effort of reading your putts. made 22 consecutive cuts, dating all the way back to the 2018 British Open. But golf is a cruel game, and consistency be damned, Kokrak got off to a bumpy start on Thursday at the Travelers Championship.
The 34-year-old Tour veteran started on No. 10 at TPC River Highlands and hit the fairway and the green, leaving himself a 30-footer for birdie. But he hit that one about 36 feet — and missed the comebacker, resulting in an opening bogey.
No problem, right? Plenty of golf left. Unfortunately, this turned into somewhat of a theme. At No. 11, Kokrak hit a fantastic tee shot, leaving himself a 3-footer. But he missed that, and then missed the 2-foot comebacker. At No. 12, his approach settled 21 feet away, but he blew his putt 4 feet past and missed that one, too. The fun continued at the par-5 13th, where he hit the green in two shots before three-putting again, this time for par. Four three-putts in a row. Brutal.
We enjoy such stories because we know how brutal this game is.... Amusingly, it didn't get any better when he stopped with the 3-jacks:
Kokrak finally missed the green with his approach shot at the par-4 14th, but hit a neat chip to 3 feet. That was a troubling distance early on, and Kokrak missed that one, too, leading to a fifth consecutive bogey. Through five holes, Kokrak had lost an unthinkable 5.68 strokes to the field just with his putter.
I'm sure Jason will pen a thank you note to Mark Broadie for that last killer stat.
Alex Myers has an amusing take on Matthew Wolff's coming-out party:
OK, so I wasn't crazy. And there were other witnesses specifically there to see one of the most highly anticipated pro debuts since Tiger Woods. But I'm guessing there was a bit more of a buzz at the 1996 Greater Milwaukee Open. Hello, World Connecticut!Like Woods 23 years ago, Wolff is turning pro off a spectacular sophomore season in college. The Oklahoma State Cowboy won six times, including the individual NCAA title. By five shots. His decision to turn pro was accompanied by a hype video created by his equipment sponsor, TaylorMade. And his unorthodox swing already has kids copying it.But there wasn't much sizzle to his start on a gloomy Thursday at TPC River Highlands. The grandstands—more like stands—that surround the first tee and seat 200 people tops were about half full. To be sure, serious golf fans were aware of the situation, including the one who shouted, "GANKAS!" when Wolff's notorious swing coach, George Gankas, showed up to give him a final few words and a pound. Moments later, Gankas left to make an appearance on Golf Channel. Was anyone going to follow this poor kid around?
The designation of the "Matthew Wolff Era" seems a tad premature, no? Of course he's got form Rory Luggage-Toter J.P. Fitzgerald on the bag, so let's keep a close watch on his ditance control with the wedges.
But funniest bit of the day is no contest, as Jordan Spieth goes full Kevin Na, and comedy ensues....Jordan, listen closely because I'm only going to say this once. You never go Full Kevin Na!
Alan in Full - Shipnuck's weekly mailbag feature is always there when I need anaerobic blogging, so let's have at it, first with some bits on our newest major champion:
Woodland’s 3-wood was one of the most clutch shots in a major. Where does it rank for you? -@SHistorians
That was tremendous – so many things could have gone wrong on that approach to the dastardly 14th green, and to have the stones to pull off that shot while nursing a one-stroke lead tells you more or less everything you need to know about G-Dub. (Sorry. Forgive me. I promise to never, ever even think that again, let alone type it.)
But Woodland’s mighty clout has to rank a notch below the all-time classic 72nd hole shots, because if he screws up the 3-wood he could still save par, and even if he takes bogey he still has a piece of the lead and there are still four pretty scorable holes ahead, including a par-5. So I’m putting it right below the do-or-die final hole dramatics that include Ben Hogan’s 1-iron, Jack Fleck’s 7-iron, Jerry Pate’s 5-iron, Shaun Micheel’s 7-iron, Sandy Lyle’s 7-iron, Corey Pavin’s 4-wood, Arnold Palmer’s 6-iron and sundry others.
Yeah, plus there was quite a bit of luck involved... This hole, like the fifteenth at Augusta, seems now to be pushing the players towards the aggressive play, but largely because that wedge third shot is so damn awkward. Which stands the usual risk-reward trade-off non-operative.
Has there ever been a nicer and more likable guy on the PGA Tour than Gary Woodland? I can’t think of a bad thing about the guy. He seems to be a genuine, decent, good human being. -@steffi_latina25
Yes, this victory was popular in the locker room, caddie yard and press tent because Woodland really is as nice and genuine as he seems. Yet he’s hardly boring – his athletic background is compelling, the family heartbreak from two years ago is wrenching, and his golf borders on the spectacular, as we saw down the stretch at Pebble.
I don't hang in the locker room or caddie yard, but it seems a very popular win.
What are your thoughts on seeing a rivalry of Brooks, Gary Woodland and who’s the third?? -@ramon_ware
Yes, please. How about Dustin? Another big, strong baller with an excess of jock swagger. Or, dare we say it, Rory? I’d love to see Spieth get back to his winning ways, because he provides such a nice contrast in game and demeanor. We just need someone/anyone to step up and challenge Brooks’ hegemony. I’ll be delighted if it’s Woodland.
DJ seems in remission during his workout buddy's ascension, no? Discuss among yourselves....
And on all things Pebble, where he worked in the cart barn as a young punk:
What’s your take on the new 13th and 14th greens? I have to say, I was a little sad to see them look so toothless. -@paulkoehorst
The old slopes had probably become too severe if Pebble was going to be a firm, fast, fiery test. Alas, with this kinder, gentler USGA setup I agree both greens lost their bite and changed the complexion of the holes. Hopefully in 2027 the course will be a racetrack and 13 and 14 will demand more precise and creative shotmaking.
I don't remember the 13th green all that well, but the rebuild of No. 14 surprised me in that they didn't seem to want to reclaim those front right pin locations. Curious, given how much play the course gets.
If you could play 18 total holes at pebble beach, how are you allocating them (i.e., you could theoretically play #7 18 times)? -@Miller_bud
I wouldn’t change much because I love the course how it is. But I find that tee shot on 3 to be vexing, 12 doesn’t make my heart pound, and we can do a lot better than 15, so I’ll skip those three holes and go around twice on 6, 7 and 8.
The first four holes are quite forgettable, as are Nos. 11, 13, 15 and 16. I agree that No.12 is is hard but not enjoyable in the slightest, and I can go either way on two of the other one-shotters. But funs stuff for sure...
I think he gets this one mostly right:
How would you rank the U.S. Opens at Pebble Beach in order of best to worst? -@AirPallotti
’82, ’72, ’00, ’19, ’92, ’10.
Certainly those last two were the weakest, 2010 especially. I'd have the first two in reverse order, not that I'm bitter or anything....
What do you imagine the U.S. Open in 2027 will look like at Pebble Beach? Any major course changes? Will USGA have addressed the technology/distance explosions by then? Will par have to be 68 or 69? -@rstimsonbyu
Oh gawd, too soon! I’d like to savor this one a little longer before working myself into a lather about ’27.
The bad news is that they'll once again follow Shinny in the rota.... What could possibly go wrong there?
On players new and old alike:
Who wins the most majors? Schauffele, Cantlay, Hovland, Wise or DeChambeau? -@ScottMichaux
Wolff.
A category error for sure, as some of those guys have been out there for a few years already.
Is Rickie the consensus “best player who hasn’t won a major?” Seems like he may have some new/younger guys to contend with for that title these days. -@djlettieri
A couple of years ago there was a pretty strong feeling that it was either Fowler or Kuchar. But this a fickle, ephemeral title, and Rickie hasn’t made any noise in the last half-dozen majors. A key part of being the BPNTHWAM is a sense that you’re on the verge of breaking through. A decade into his career, can we say that about Fowler? You also can’t be too callow or too old. Kuch turns 41 this week – has his time passed?
I think we could make a strong case for Bryson: he has already matched Rickie’s career win total and is more than halfway to Kuchar’s, at the age of 25. But to be the BPNTHWAM you have to have had your heart broken at a major or two, and DeChambeau has yet to contend in any of them. Tommy Fleetwood has been there in the crunch but, notwithstanding his great play at the Ryder Cup, he hasn’t won a tournament in a year and a half. Jon Rahm needs a little more body of work. A strong stealth candidate is Xander Schauffele, who always seems to show up in the biggest events. But he also still might be a little too young.
All of this is to say, there is no consensus candidate. Where is Phil or Monty when you really need them?
This is an ugly meme for our Rickie, because the only case to make in refuting the dreaded designation is that, yanno, he's not all the good.
A couple for you on the USGA as well:
Will we look back at 2019 as the year the USGA abandoned par as the yardstick for its flagship shindig? And was that a conscious decision, to do it at Pebble where there is so much love for the place (course/historic winners/views/etc) that they could get away with it? -@tallboy199
The players won. That’s the short explanation for what we saw at Pebble. Course setups don’t happen in a vacuum. They’re done by human beings, who have emotions and agendas and mundane concerns such as staying employed.
All the bellyaching by the players put the USGA in such a defensive crouch that the setup folks were forced to err on the side of caution. So when the weather turned hot the blue coats drenched Pebble Beach with water – in the run-up to the tournament, that meant more than 400,000 gallons a day, when Pebble ordinarily gets only 200-250K. When the cool, foggy weather arrived – which is typical for June and had been in the forecast a week+ out – there was no way to put the fire back in the course, even if the USGA had been so inclined.
So, yes, this was a choice that was made, to allow for lower scoring and happier players, and to avoid any headline-making screwups. It made perfect sense given the controversies of recent years. And seaside courses are always tricky. If the USGA baked out the course and then a big wind came in the howling could have been deafening. Winged Foot next year will be the big test. It’s inland and the weather is predictable (warm, muggy). The positive player reaction from this year takes some pressure off the USGA. If that’s also a benign setup we’ll know something fundamental has changed.
I really hate that formulation about protecting par, and prefer to speak of their objective as to provide the sternest test in golf. The former connotes arbitrariness, and is usually wielded by those with an ax to grind.
But they got dealt a tough hand in terms of weather, and Alan is spot on about this being a very human undertaking. But I'd also note that, as much as I love challenging the guys with firm and fast conditions, that's a tricky thing at this venue. Conditions change dramatically on the coast, see, Fathers Day 1992, and the greens are so small that they can easily veer into the unplayable (think 2010).
Why is the USGA so worried about pissing already spoiled players off? What are they going to do, not play the U.S. Open? -@NaadderBajwa
The idea that some of the top stars considered boycotting the national championship is hilarious. Can you imagine how that would have played in the larger sports world? Boycotting because they didn’t like a few pin positions at Shinnecock? Or bumpy greens at Chambers Bay? They would have gotten killlllled as being entitled prima donnas. It would have been the biggest black eye for the game since…various entitled prima donnas perpetrated a Zika hoax and boycotted the Olympics.
That's true as far as Alan takes it.... The problem is that the USGA so consistently beclowned itself (Shinny 2X, Oakmont, shall I go on?), that they're forfeited the moral high ground.
Whining players > non-whining players during the U.S. Open? -@Nolanddad
Oh, hell yes. Going back decades, the soundtrack to every U.S. Open was the plaintive wailing of the players. That’s how we knew it was our national championship. “Fair” is often codeword for too easy, so I knew we were in trouble when the players universally employed that word to praise the Pebble setup. I pray that future Opens will feature the appropriate amount of kvetching.
That's why Tom Daok refers to "fair" as the F-word....
I'll leave you nice folks here and wish you an enjoyable weekend.
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