Scottie Scheffler married his highschool sweetheart Meredith in 2020. (Source: Instagram @scottie.scheffler)
Scottie Scheffler, the renowned golf champion, is not just celebrated for his prowess on the golf course but also for his enduring love story with his wife, Meredith Scudder.
Scottie Scheffler and his wife: Highschool sweethearts…
Their journey began at Highland Park High School in Dallas, where their paths crossed during their freshman year. Although it took until their senior year for romance to blossom, their bond endured even as they pursued higher education at rival colleges, with Meredith attending Texas A&M and Scottie at the University of Texas.
Meredith, initially unaware of Scottie’s golfing talents, was astounded when she saw him featured in a commercial for a major tournament. This revelation marked a turning point in her understanding of his dedication and skill in the sport.
…turned lifetime partners
Their wedding in December 2020 was a testament to their enduring love, complete with a winter wonderland-themed celebration surrounded by family and friends. Since then, they have celebrated milestones together, including Scottie’s numerous victories on the golf course.
Beyond the fairways, faith plays a central role in their marriage, with both Scottie and Meredith leaning on their Christian beliefs for strength and guidance. Their shared values extend to their involvement in philanthropic endeavors, including supporting organizations like Behind Every Door, which provides opportunities for underprivileged youth in their community.
Scottie Scheffler: A golf phenomenon
Scottie Scheffler’s achievements in golf are nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a standout high school athlete to his rise as a professional golfer, Scheffler has consistently showcased his talent and determination on the course. With multiple PGA Tour victories, including prestigious titles like the US Masters and back- to-back The Players Championship, Scheffler has cemented his status as one of the sport’s elite players. Despite Meredith’s initial unfamiliarity with golf, she has embraced Scottie’s passion for the sport, even stepping in as his caddie on occasion.
Scottie Scheffler and his wife Meredith ath the Par 3 Contest at the US Masters. (Source: Getty)
Beyond golf, Scheffler’s love for pickleball is a testament to his passion for sports and competition. In August 2023, he became an investor in the Texas Ranchers, a pickleball team, demonstrating his enthusiasm for the game.
The Tomorrow Golf League (TGL) is scheduled to start on January 07, 2025. (Source: Instagram @tmrwsports)
In November 2024, a fault in the temporary power system and the backup systems caused the dome of the SoFi Center to collapse, forcing the organizers around Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy to postpone the originally planned start on the 9th of January 2024. The Tomorrow Golf League (TGL) has now published the new start date.
One year late, the indoor golf league is set to kick off on January 7, 2025. “In planning the launch of TGL presented by SoFi in 2025, we have now marked the first three Tuesdays in January to introduce sports fans to this new form of team golf,” explained Mike McCarley, co-founder of TMRW Sports with Woods and McIlroy. “January is a great time of year for fans looking for prime-time sporting events, and the launch of TGL will complement the start of the PGA Tour season and capitalize on ESPN’s advertising machine as part of their coverage of the NFL and college football playoffs,” McCarley continued.
Six teams are currently confirmed. Atlanta Drive GC, Boston Common Golf, Jupiter Links Golf Club, Los Angeles Golf Club, TGL New York and TGL San Francisco. However, only Atlanta Drive and LAGC have full four-man squads so far. The TGL Golf squad as a whole underwent something of an upheaval at the start of 2024 when Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf. Hatton was previously a member of McIlroy’s Team Boston Common before joining the Saudi Arabia-funded circuit.
The Tomorrow Golf League presents an innovative format that challenges the traditional rules of golf. Each event of the season is divided into two sessions, with only three of the four players on a team competing. First, they compete in “Triples”, a 3-on-3 competition over nine holes. This is followed by the “Singles”, in which three duels are played over six holes, with each player on their team playing two holes. If no decision is made, it goes into “overtime”, where the aim is to place the ball closest to the flag. The team that gets two of the three balls closer to the target wins the overtime. In addition, each player wears a microphone during the tournament.
The scoring system is similar to that of ice hockey: a win in regulation time, i.e. the triples and singles, earns a team two points, while the losing team receives none. If the game goes into overtime, the losing team receives an extra point. The regular season consists of 15 events, after which the four best teams advance to the playoffs. These include two semi-finals, which are decided after one game, and a final in a best-of-3 format.
The new spring/summer collection 2024 of Mizuno. (Source: Mizuno)
Mizuno’s Spring Summer 2024 Golf Apparel Collection has a distinctly urban-influenced look. Striking in simple black and white with crew necks, trace scripts and bold logos, at the same time, harnessing the core elements of Mizuno’s established core golf performance technologies and materials.
Mizuno Polos
Mizuno’s spring/summer collection introduces a vibrant array of polo shirts designed to elevate both performance and style on and off the golf course. Among the standout pieces is the Squad Polo, boasting a modern streetwear-inspired design infused with Mizuno’s Move Tech technology for enhanced agility and comfort. The Squad Polo features a ribbed blade collar and prominently displays the iconic Mizuno Runbird logo on the chest, embodying a fusion of athleticism and contemporary fashion. Complementing this, the Ace Polo offers a refreshing take on the traditional golf shirt with a short zip and intricate floral print detailing, making it versatile for various occasions. Meanwhile, the Trace Polo makes a bold statement with its striking color block design and ‘MIZUNO GOLF’ print, while the Cali Cool Polo channels the laid-back vibe of the California coast with its eye-catching aesthetic. Rounding out the collection are the Fragma Polo and Fragma Drop Polo, featuring intricate RB maze designs and lightweight Mizuno Move Tech properties for unparalleled performance. Additionally, the Cali Cool Stripe Polo and Laser RB Polo add further diversity with their distinctive features, including typography accents and unique print patterns. With each polo shirt crafted from soft, stretch fabric and equipped with Quick Dry Technology, Mizuno ensures both comfort and functionality, making these garments essential additions to any golfer’s wardrobe this season.
Two of the new Polo shirts (Source: Mizuno)
Stay Stylish and Protected
Mizuno unveils a lineup of midlayers and jackets as part of its spring/summer collection, catering to golfers seeking both style and functionality on the course. Leading the pack is the RB ¼ Zip, a versatile piece designed to combat cooler summer mornings with its combination of Move Tech technology and heavier material, ensuring comfort and warmth in varying conditions. Complementing this, the Mizuno Trace ¼ Zip merges streetwear flair with classic design elements, featuring bold ‘MIZUNO GOLF’ typography and Move Tech properties for added insulation on brisk days. For those looking for crossover appeal, the G-Style Hoodie 24 emerges as an ideal choice, offering high stretch and substantial fabric suitable for both the course and leisure wear. Similarly, the G-Style Crew presents a streetwear-inspired option with its typography detail and exceptional stretch fabric. Additionally, the Drizzle Hoodie T stands out as a lightweight yet protective option, equipped with wind protection, water-repellent properties, and a zip-away hood for quick adaptation to changing weather conditions. With each piece adorned with the iconic Runbird logo and crafted with Move Tech properties, these midlayers and jackets ensure golfers stay comfortable, stylish, and prepared for whatever the season brings.
Stylish midlayers (Source: Mizuno)
Stylish Trousers and Shorts
The brand introduces a fresh array of trousers and shorts in its latest spring/summer collection, designed to enhance performance and style on the golf course. Leading the lineup is the Reset Trouser, boasting water-repellent capabilities for optimal comfort and protection against the elements. With an improved tapered fit and available in new leg lengths, including 30L, 32L, and 34L, these trousers offer versatility and a tailored look for golfers of all sizes. Complementing the trousers are the Mizuno Reset Shorts, featuring the same enhanced tapered fit and crafted from high-stretch, lightweight fabric. Equipped with water-repellent properties and Mizuno Move Tech, these shorts provide golfers with freedom of movement and comfort throughout their game. With both options prioritizing performance and functionality, Mizuno continues to innovate its apparel lineup, ensuring golfers can perform at their best while staying comfortable and stylish on the course.
Callaway is said to be up for sale. The truth behind the rumors and what the PIF has to do with it. (Source: Getty)
A report in the South Korean newspaper Chosun Daily suggests that one of the leading manufacturers of golf equipment could be up for sale. According to the report, the major shareholders of Topgolf Callaway have instructed a key manager to look into the possibility of spinning off the golf equipment and hardware business to focus solely on the state-of-the-art Topgolf driving ranges. The report states that Callaway would be valued at nearly $3 billion and that a South Korean “strategic investor is reportedly interested in acquiring the company.” To put the reported value in perspective: Korea-based Centroid Investment Partners acquired TaylorMade Golf in 2021 from New York-based KPS Capital Partners for $1.7 billion – a figure that remains the largest acquisition in the history of the golf equipment industry. After the report was published on Wednesday, Topgolf Callaway’s share price rose by more than ten percent.
Callaway denies rumors
When asked by Golf.com, a Callaway representative issued the following statement: “While it is our long-standing practice not to respond to market rumors and speculation, in light of the unusual market activity today and a recent media report in Korea about discussions of a possible sale of the company or its golf equipment business, we confirm that we are not aware of any such discussions. We do not intend to comment further on this matter and we assume no obligation to make any further announcements or disclosures should circumstances change.”
Topgolf Callaway CEO Chip Brewer emphasized that Callaway equipment would remain a big part of the message at Topgolf, particularly the Chrome Tour golf ball. “The business has performed exceptionally well from a brand perspective in 2023,” he said. “Our U.S. dollar market share positioned us as the No. 1 club brand and the No. 2 golf ball brand. In clubs alone, we were No. 1 in total clubs, drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons.”
PIF reportedly interested in Callaway
Shortly after the rumor that Callaway was up for sale emerged, wild speculation arose on social networks. Even multiple major winner and LIV golfer Phil Mickelson commented on one of them. Golf journalist Bob Ball published the idea on X (formerly Twitter) that the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund PIF could be interested in a takeover of the manufacturer and explained why he thought this was likely: “The acquisition of Callaway Golf by PIF would create an alliance between LIV Golf, Top Golf and Callaway,” Ball explained. “This would be a direct counter-offensive against the alliance of Tiger Woods, the PGA Tour, TGL, Popstroke and TaylorMade.” The integration of LIV Golf into Top Golf would lead to a wider audience, he explained: “With LIV Golf integrated into every Top Golf, local amateur teams could compete in fun local competitions – league play days with lots of food and free drinks. This would attract a lot of new and younger fans to LIV Golf.”
Finance insiders have known for a while that Callaway Golf is for sale. I think there’s a good chance that PIF might buy it for a couple big reasons.
First, it creates an alliance of LIV Golf, Top Golf, and Callaway. That is a direct counter offense to Tiger’s alliance; the… pic.twitter.com/HsD4FsjmYw
— Bob “Golf” Ball (@BobBallPdx) March 21, 2024
Ball also pointed out that a purchase of Callaway Golf by PIF would thwart the plans of TGL and the PGA Tour to utilize Top Golf to compete with the team concept introduced by LIV. Lastly, Ball emphasized that the purchase would likely be cheaper than investing in the PGA Tour and that Callaway is a solid revenue source. Additionally LIV stars Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson are strongly associated with Callaway. The latter has already shown enthusiasm for Ball’s idea on X. Even after Callaway dismissed the rumors as false, Ball remained steadfast in his belief that the acquisition of the equipment giant would be a good deal for PIF and LIV Golf.
I haven’t heard anything about this but what a great idea and I pray this happens ?
TaylorMade aims to revolutionize style and performance with the new SpeedSoft and SpeedSoft Ink golf balls. (Source: TaylorMade)
The newly released SpeedSoft golf ball plays a critical role in TaylorMade’s dynamic lineup of 2024 golf balls. This low-compression design was developed with one goal in mind: To deliver the softest feel possible while maintaining explosive speeds for the average golfer. Powered by a new PWRCORE technology that makes it the softest ball in the TaylorMade range, combined with competitive pricing, SpeedSoft is the ideal blend of performance and affordability. It features a low compression core that compensates for distance and an ultra-soft feel on iron shots and approach shots around the green.
TaylorMade aims to revolutionize golf ball style and performance
“SpeedSoft represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to deliver performance products for golfers of all abilities. With a deliberate focus on developing a low compression design, this is the first time we have created a TaylorMade golf ball with a compression differential below 50. SpeedSoft stands out as a game changer due to its unprecedented combination of soft feel and explosive speeds.” – Josh Dipert, Director of Product Development Engineering, Golf Ball.
The new SpeedSoft golf balls from TaylorMade. (Source: TaylorMade)
Building on SpeedSoft’s low compression ratio and soft feel, the new SpeedSoft Ink showcases vibrant visual technology expressed through a distinctive ink splatter design. Designed with high contrast and high visibility in mind, SpeedSoft Ink introduces Taylormade’s patented multi-axis printing technology at a more accessible price point, bringing the brand’s leading visual technology capabilities to a wider audience for the first time. Beyond the performance benefits of visual technology, SpeedSoft Ink represents a canvas of personality and style ideal for those who dare to break convention and change the look of golf balls for the core golfer.
The SpeedSoft Ink series is designed to bring color to the golf course. (Source: TaylorMade)
Golf balls with visual technology
“The market demand for golf balls with visual technology is increasing and reflects a growing segment of golfers who are looking for more than just the traditional white ball experience. We feel this segment has been ignored until now, and with SpeedSoft Ink we are meeting this demand while taking a bold step towards the modern golfer’s desire for visual technology without sacrificing performance,” said Michael Fox, Senior Director of Product Creation, Golf Ball. “Offered in four different color options (green, red, blue and pink), the SpeedSoft Ink offers a wide range of options that are bursting with personality.
SpeedSoft and SpeedSoft Yellow are available from retailers at an RRP of 36 euros per dozen. The new SpeedSoft Ink is available for 38 Euro per dozen.
Footjoy presents new styles for men and women for the 2024 season. (Source: Footjoy)
New for 2024 is the introduction of the Tempo Series – a collection of technical outerwear for men and women designed with functional pieces for year-round use. The lightweight, high-tech fabrics feature temperature-regulating properties, keeping golfers warm or cool depending on conditions. Breathable, moisture-wicking, water-repellent, and stretchy fabrics enable golfers to play freely and confidently. Pieces include the Sun Hoodie, Tech Midlayer, and Softshell Vest.
The new Temposeries men’s wear. (Source: Footjoy)
Footjoy presents new series for men and women
The men’s collection includes a tech midlayer with a mesh fabric mix, a sun hoddie with a stylish hood and a lightweight softshell vest. For women, footjoy presents the new lightweight hoddie, made from micro-poly jacquard fabric with moisture-wicking properties and a zippered mesh back pocket and the temposeries jacket that features bi-stretch fabric for superior performance and flexibility, a full DWR coating and open entry pockets.
The new Temposeries women’s wear. (Source: Footjoy)
Footjoy unveils new colorways
In addition to the Tempo Series, the Spring-Summer collection for men introduces four new color palettes inspired by golfing by the sea – Ocean Park, Huntington, Dunes, and Arcadia – featuring exciting new prints and patterns. Ocean Park blends sky blue, ocean blue, deep blue with white and berry; Huntington features coral red, sea glass, navy, and white; Dunes consists of violet and lilac tones of mist, storm gray, thistle, and moss, while the Arcadia Collection combines light pink, cliff gray, gravel, and white. New highlight designs include scallop, flag, primrose, and thistle, as well as hand-drawn 19th hole and golf course prints.
New colorways for men. (Source: Footjoy)
The Essentials collection for men has also been expanded with new colors: Riviera Blue and Pink now adorn the most popular polo and midlayer models. The two women’s collections offer a range of striking floral prints and patterns with matching headwear and belts. The Tuscan Poppy Collection combines pink, red, black, and white, while the Lavender Fields Collection includes navy, mint, lavender, and white. These are complemented by a more extensive Essentials range featuring a selection of polos, pullovers, jackets, pants, and shorts. Highlights include a new sleeveless romper, patterned pants, and fashionable floral prints.
“Innovative styles and practical clothing pieces”
Colin Mynott, Footjoy Product Manager, says: “We at FootJoy are thrilled to offer a new apparel series that stands out in the current golf landscape. The Tempo Series features materials that are both versatile and comfortable, providing golfers with protection from changing temperatures and natural elements all day long. With our new color and technology stories in our men’s and women’s collections, we offer golfers innovative, stylish, and practical clothing pieces that make every day a golf day.”
Jordan Smith will represent Galvin Green on the DP World Tour. (Source: Galvin Green)
Hi-tech golf apparel brand Galvin Green has named its global Tour player line-up headlined by Swedish star Alexander Björk on the PGA Tour and Englishman Jordan Smith leading the brand’s presence on the DP World Tour.
Alexander Björk and Jordan Smith set to represent Galvin Green
Having achieved an impressive stroke average of 69.59 across the DP World Tour calendar in 2023, Björk is set to play most of his golf on the flagship US Tour following a career best season that saw him finish 11 th in the Race to Dubai rankings to earn a sought-after PGA TOUR card.
Hot off the back of a T2 finish at the Jonnson Workwear Open in South Africa, Jordan Smith will be seen wearing Galvin Green garments for another year after a strong showing on the DP World Tour in 2023, where he achieved four top 10s, plus a T20 and T41 finish at the 123rd US Open and 151 st Open Championship respectively.
“We’re so pleased that Alexander earned his PGA Tour card which was fully deserved after a superb season of consistent golf,” said Conor Petters, Galvin Green Global Tour Manager. “It was also great to see Jordan come some close on Sunday after being in contention so often during the course of last year,” he added.
Björk and Smith are joined by five other Tour players
Five other tour players will wear Galvin Green apparel in the 2024 season. They include fellow Englishman Laurie Canter wearing the brand’s clothing during tournaments on LIV Golf as a wildcard player and the DP World Tour. Former Walker Cup star Jake Bolton is one of the newest recruits to wear the latest men’s range featuring products such as the 100% waterproof and windproof ARMSTRONG GORE-TEX Paclite® jacket in a three tone design, plus the breathable MO shirt in moisture wicking VENTIL8™ PLUS fabric with a cross-body gradient print across the chest.
Alexandra Swayne, 23, will wear the brand’s vibrant women’s styles for a second successive season having made her Ladies European Tour debut last year, while 29-year-old Danish Nanna Koerstz Madsen joins the line-up alongside Corinne Viden on the LET circuit.
“We are delighted to continue supporting our new and established Tour players and believe each member of Team Galvin Green will prove to be valuable brand ambassadors in front of global audiences in 2024,” added Petters.
The first edition of the Porsche Singapore Classic from March 21 to 24 on the DP World Tour promises an extensive golf experience.
From March 21st to 24th, international world-class players and local exceptional golfers will compete for the prestigious title at the Laguna National Golf Resort Club – and for the first Porsche Hole-in-One vehicle ever on the DP World Tour in Asia. The inaugural Porsche Singapore Classic from March presents a diverse event experience featuring world-class golf and special Porsche moments. For the first time, as part of its internationalization of professional golf activities, the sports car manufacturer is actively involved as a title partner in Asia. This allows for an combination of international top players and a brand experience amidst the global metropolis at Laguna National Golf Resort Club.
The #Porsche Singapore Classic is set to present high class golf and an attractive live experience. World class international players and the local elite will be competing for the title at the Laguna National Golf Resort Club from 21 to 24 March: https://t.co/0jmaDUNld9pic.twitter.com/hZbhZvEqDK
To kick off the Asian Swing on the DP World Tour, a high-caliber field of players will battle for the title on the Classic Course. Alongside top stars such as Porsche brand ambassador Paul Casey from England, Irish Major and Ryder Cup winner Shane Lowry, and defending champion Ockie Strydom from South Africa, Matthieu Pavon, ranked third in the season standings on the PGA Tour, will also tee-off at the Porsche Singapore Classic. Following his title at the Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour in California earlier this year, the Frenchman is making his debut on the DP World Tour this season. In total, nearly two dozen DP World Tour winners from the past two years, numerous Ryder Cup stars, as well as prominent Asian top players and exceptional golfers from Singapore are on the starting list.
“We are eagerly anticipating the first edition of the Porsche Singapore Classic,” says Deniz Keskin, Head of Brand Management and Partnerships at Porsche AG. “The combination of top-notch golf with world-class players, top stars from Asia, and the opportunity to enjoy exclusive Porsche moments promises a lasting brand experience. This event fits perfectly with the internationalization of our sponsorship strategy and will hopefully leave a lasting impression here in Singapore.”
Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid as Hole-in-One Car for players and visitors
In addition to the tournament prize money totaling $2.5 million, the focus in the high-class competition is also on the first Hole-in-One vehicle from Porsche on the DP World Tour in Asia. The Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid, unveiled just this winter, beckons as a prize for an ace during the four tournament days at Hole 17.
However, not only professionals have the chance to win the sports car. One of the highlights on the premises this year is the Porsche Panamera Shootout. Here, visitors can qualify for the chance at the Hole-in-One prize through a Nearest-to-the-Pin competition in the Fan Village. On Sunday after the tournament, the best participants at Hole 17 will compete to win the car with a perfect shot.
The Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid. (Source: Porsche)
Porsche Brand Experience at the Singapore Classic
In addition to the Hole-in-One Car and the Porsche Panamera Shootout, golf and sports car fans can look forward to further highlights in collaboration with Porsche Asia Pacific and Porsche Singapore. This includes a vehicle exhibition featuring the Porsche 996 Swan by artist Chris Labrooy as a centerpiece. Furthermore, in Singapore, a fully electric Taycan fleet serves as shuttle vehicles for players. The international relevance of the commitment is also reflected in the interest of Asian markets in the tournament. Porsche customers from the markets of Singapore, Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan will be able to enjoy an exclusive VIP experience.
The electric Porsche Taycan will serve as a players shuttle. (Source: Porsche)
Some of the guests will experience an unforgettable golf day alongside international top golfers on the perfectly prepared course in the Pro-Am tournament on Wednesday before the first round of professionals. This experience will also be enjoyed by Kévin Estre. The French Porsche factory driver, class winner in Le Mans 2018 and recently successful in the Porsche 963 in the first season race of the World Endurance Championship, is a passionate golfer and previously featured alongside Paul Casey in the 9:11 Porsche Podcast. Estre is now looking forward to a new challenge related to his second passion.
Laguna National Golf Resort Club: Challenging Venue
The Laguna National Golf Resort Club with its two 18-hole courses is considered one of the outstanding venues for professional events. Since its opening in 1993, the Classic Course, nicknamed “The Beast,” has been the venue for several tournaments on the world’s leading golf tours. The nearly 6,800-meter Par 72 course is characterized by very narrow and undulating fairways, as well as challenging water hazards and more than 145 bunkers. The DP World Tour returned to Singapore in 2023 after a nine-year hiatus.
In addition to the Porsche attractions, visitors to the Porsche Singapore Classic can enjoy a variety of entertaining activities in the Spectator Village. A wide range of food and beverages is available throughout the day. Even after the game, events are planned on the premises. Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings feature live music, while Friday evening sees the return of the popular Beach Volleyball on the Green, where Beach Volleyball national player Eliza Chong and her teammates provide entertainment with a show match.
The first round of the Porsche Singapore Classic starts on Thursday, March 21st, around 7:30 a.m. Tickets for the tournament are available through the DP World Tour website.
Kentucky and Old Country Traditions Converge in Valhalla.
The scenario of the 2024 PGA Championship and McIlroy’s last major victory. (Source: PGA of America / Visit Kentucky)
Rory McIlroy’s victory in darkness at the 2014 PGA Championship in Valhalla Golf Club, resisting the rallies of local favorites Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler in a rain-delayed final round, was the Northern Irishman’s last win in a major. However, it was not the last time nor the first time someone from the Old Country left an imprint in Valhalla and Kentucky.
LOUISVILLE, KY – AUGUST 10: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the Wanamaker Trophy during the Award Ceremony for the 96th PGA Championship, at Valhalla Golf Club, on August 10, 2014 in Louisville, KY. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America)
Limestone: Kentucky’s Heritage
“We have exposed limestone throughout the golf course, and we are pretty much in the heart of limestone,” said Jimmy Kirchdorfer, General Chairman of Valhalla Golf Club. “That is the reason the early settlers decided to raise horses and have the whisky industry here. Limestone is the key to our Kentucky heritage. ”Limestone is the foundation of Valhalla and most Kentucky traditions, from bluegrass (both the plant and the music), to horses and bourbon. “It imbues the water with important minerals that are consumed by the yeast during the fermentation process. Then it filters the water and removes iron, which will interact with the components in the oak barrel and discolor the bourbon,” explained Dubliner Conor O’Driscoll, the seventh Master Distiller in Heaven Hill Distillery. “If you look at our portfolio, Henry McKenna, was an Irishman, Evan Williams was a Welshman. It was the Irish and the Scots who brought whiskey to America. Of course, the Irish invented it… or so they affirm,” said for the craic (jokingly in Irish or Scottish) O’Driscoll, the druid also behind the blending of Elijah Craig, a name associated with the invention of bourbon.
Fine Whiskey from Kentucky (Photo by Visit Kentucky)
The Ryder Cup at Valhalla
Coinciding with the anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, O’Driscoll met his wife around 25 years ago at the Kentucky Derby, another melting pot of international influences in the Bluegrass State, including some winningest riders from Mexico and Puerto Rico. “I went to the Kentucky Derby and that’s when it all kind of came together, the event was very international,” said Englishman Josh Webber, part of the groundcrew during the 2008 Ryder Cup and the 2014 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club. “The Derby was a fantastic experience. I went to the horse race and never saw a horse. We were in the infield partying,” added Irishman Paul O’Donoghue.
The famous Kentuck Derby (Photo by Visit Kentucky)
Webber and O’Donoghue were the only Europeans under Superintendent Mark Wilson’s orders during the memorable Ryder Cup at Valhalla. “When I was mowing greens, I had the European flag wrapped around my shoulders and I wore a crown”, remembered Webber. “We always had the European flag flying and Mark went and bought 200 American flags for the rest of the team,” O’Donohue recalled.
Webber and O’Donoghue at the Ryder Cup 2008 (Photo by PGA of America)
Both then young men from the Old Country in Kentucky –now superintendents in Southern England and The Netherlands—treasure the memories of their time in Valhalla and the “massive similarities between the soil in the Islands and Kentucky,” even the whiskey, the grass, and the music. “Except for one or two places, Ireland is mainly limestone, which gives you the green”, explained O’Donohue. “The only reason we call it bluegrass in Kentucky is because when it is hot it turns blue”, added the Irish superintendent about the origin of the name of the grass and the Bluegrass genre, derived from traditional Scottish, Irish, and English music. Bluegrass songs about family, horses, bourbon, and even limestone played in the background during the time Webber and O’Donohue spent under the wing of Kentucky Golf Hall of Famer Mark Wilson in Valhalla Golf Club. “Being part of the building of Valhalla put the wind on my back and launched me downhill,” said Wilson, who started his career in the seventies along with the first class of formally educated superintendents in the country.
Mark Wilson at the Ryder Cup 2008 (Photo by PGA of America)
Epic finishes in Kentucky
“For 22 years I mowed the bent grass fairways of Valhalla with green mowers and cut the clippings. And every winter we had to extent the site and the venue,” said now-retired Wilson, privileged witness of one Ryder Cup and three PGA Championships in Valhalla. “We were fortunate to have epic and historic finishes. I remember all of them,” said Kirchdorfer. “Tiger beating Bob May in a playoff in 2000 was spectacular,” he remembers about Tiger Woods’ victory, the first time since 1953 (Ben Hogan) that a player had won three major championships in the same calendar year. “The 2008 Ryder Cup, when the US was struggling to win until the end and we had two players from Kentucky, Kenny Perry and JB Holmes, was very special. A lot of people from Kentucky would say it was the best sporting event they have ever been to,” said Kirchdorfer.
“Valhalla is fantastic. It always seems to provide a very exciting finish in these championships. I watched the 2000 PGA here when Tiger won against Bob May, and I was sitting at home watching the Ryder Cup, as well. It seems like it always provides a great finish,” said McIlroy after winning his fourth major in Valhalla at 25 years of age. A decade later, two weeks after the 150 th Kentucky Derby, and on the 25 th Anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Rory McIlory, from the Old Country, could break the spell and win his fifth major at the 106 th PGA Championship in Valhalla Golf Club. “I had a great time here and hopefully I am going to come back one day to Valhalla and try and win this thing again,” were some of his last words in 2014 before departing Kentucky with the Wannamaker Trophy.
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland hits his tee shot on 18 during the Final Round of the 96th PGA Championship, at Valhalla Golf Club, on August 10, 2014 in Louisville, KY. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America)
Charlie Woods had a complicated day in his attempt to qualify for the Cognizant Classic. (Photo: Getty)
Attempting to secure a spot in the upcoming Cognizant Classic, the 15-year-old prodigy, son of golf legend Tiger Woods, found himself amidst unwanted attention during his qualifying round at the Lake Golf Club. While Tiger was absent, Charlie was accompanied by his mother, Elin Nordegren, for support, but what unfolded was a challenging day for the young golfer.
Struggling with his drives and frequently searching for his ball in the rough, Charlie started his round with two early bogeys and compounded his difficulties with a double-bogey on the 5th hole. The real challenge came at the par-4 7th hole, where he endured a tough stretch, requiring twelve strokes to complete the hole. However, he showed resilience, bouncing back with six consecutive pars on the following holes, finishing the round with a score of 86.
Yet, it wasn’t just Charlie’s performance that garnered attention on that Thursday in Florida. The absence of ropes typically used to delineate spectator areas led to some fans encroaching upon the young golfer. Reports from “Golfweek” highlighted instances where fans approached Charlie, with one audaciously requesting his signature on his father’s book, “How I Play Golf.” When officials intervened, the response was brazen: “I live here.” Such incidents persisted throughout Charlie’s round, disrupting his focus before he ultimately left the course. However, amidst the chaos, his playing partner, Olin Brown Jr., son of three-time PGA Tour winner Olin Browne, provided unwavering support, encouraging Charlie throughout the round.
Charlie Woods shot a 16 over 86 in pre qualifying for the Cognizant Classic on the PGA Tour, with a 12 on the par 4 7th hole. Time to chill with the hype and just let the lad enjoy playing a sport he clearly loves. pic.twitter.com/gt4CZAiLOu
Tiger Woods’ son takes his first steps with the big boys
While a qualification for the Cognizant Classic 2024 seemed remote, Charlie’s ability to bounce back from setbacks showcased his resilience. Even if he had managed to secure a top-five finish or a tie at the Pre-Qualifier, success in the subsequent Monday Qualifier would have been necessary for entry into the main event. Nonetheless, the experience gained from participating in such a high-stakes event will undoubtedly prove invaluable for Charlie as he continues to pursue his dreams on the PGA Tour.
In conclusion, while the focus should have been on Charlie Woods’ journey and his aspirations in the world of professional golf, the unfortunate behavior of a minority of fans served as a stark reminder of the challenges young athletes like him face on their path to greatness. Despite the distractions, Charlie’s determination and talent shine through, hinting at a promising future in the sport.
