This Week at WorldGolf.com: August 3, 2006

Webb's comeback is the stuff of golf legends

In professional golf, getting to the top is no easy task. Getting back to the top after falling off is near impossible. Which is why Karrie Webb's 2006 campaign has been the stuff of greatness.

In 1999 and 2000, Webb dominated the LPGA, racking up 12 victories, waltzing home with player of the year honors both years. In 2001, her win total dropped to three, but two of those victories were of the major variety, and she finished second four times. In 2002, however, the signs of decline were in full swing as Webb won just once, and even missed the cut trying to defend her U.S. Women's Open title. She missed the cut again at the Open in 2003, and collected just two wins in the next two years.

Last year it appeared the wheels had finally fallen off for the once-dominant Australian. Her best showing was a sixth-place tie and it was beginning to appear that, having been completely overtaken and overshadowed by Annika Sorenstam, Webb's status had fallen from Player of the Year, to journeyman player.

2006 began with little anticipation and middling results for Webb, but that all changed on the 72nd hole of the Kraft Nabisco Championship. Webb improbably sank a 116-yard wedge shot, earning her a miraculous victory, and since then, the Karrie Webb of old has re-emerged, with eight top-10 finishes and two more victories, including last week's Evian Masters, where the 33-year-old stared down "young guns" like Michelle Wie and Lorena Ochoa to get the win.

And it all seems to come back to that one wedge shot, improbably made after she had finally gotten herself back into contention.

"Unless I do something more spectacular than that for the rest of my career, I think that will be the shot that I remember for the rest of my life," Webb told the Associated Press.

After a three-year slump that saw her tinker with her swing until it was producing none of the results that had made her a hall of famer, Webb is back. After spending the offseason preparing harder than ever before, she's on top of the LPGA's money list, and leading the player of the year.

And with just a few events remaining, once again people believe we will be seeing more spectacular golf from Karrie Webb.

As always, WorldGolf.com welcomes your comments.

Orlando golf travelers see
condotels becoming a better option

For many golf travelers, condotels have become the perfect choice. By combining ownership with great accommodations, buyers get the best of both worlds, while travelers get a lodging that's closer to home. With new condotels being built, Orlando is adding to its myriad tourist options in Florida.

Reader: Don't miss Mystic Dunes in Orlando

Golf for Beginners: A valuable training
aid in your bag plus helpful golf tips

Barry and Stacy Solomon prove they are true golf fanatics, by researching some old golf magazines, and finding great information for their listeners. They also discuss how persistence and the right mental attitude can keep your round on track even if it starts badly, plus a plethora of golf tips.

Also: Check out the new Sweet Spots podcast

Kent shows off the best of
England's castles and golf courses

History oozes from every castle and stately home in the southeastern county of Kent, known as the garden of England. It has more castles, mansions and gardens open to the public than any other region in Britain. And courses like Chart Hills Golf Club, Knole Park and the London Club will solidify it as a great golf destination.

Also: Find the best golf in Europe