This Week at WorldGolf.com: June 24, 2008
 |
|
 |
|
Thanks to Tiger Woods' knee, doe the U.S. team have a leg up in the Ryder Cup Matches?
Most serious sports fans have heard the name Wally Pipp, the old New York Yankees first baseman, who twice won the American League home run title.
When Pipp sat out one game in 1925 and was replaced by a fella named Lou Gehrig, few knew the rookie Gehrig would play every single game for the next 13 years.
Now, how many have heard the name Babe Dahlgren? He was the unknown who replaced Gehrig after the Iron Horse was forced out after 2,130 games, weakened by a debilitating disease that would later bear his name.
Were the Yankees demoralized? Consider: They went out and beat the Detroit Tigers 22-2 the day Gehrig sat down and Babe – Dahlgren, not Ruth – hit a home run.
We here at WorldGolf.com bring this up because we are fearless in positing the controversial, the fantastical, the downright seditious.
The U.S. team has a chance to win back the Ryder Cup this year now that Tiger Woods will miss the matches because of his knee surgery.
We all know Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer on the planet. We all know he may be considered the greatest ever. But do you want Tiger on your team when it comes to one for all and all for one?
No, I'm afraid you don't.
Woods has a dismal record in the Ryder Cup Matches - 10-13-2 - especially when you compare it to his record when he plays by and for himself. His only winning record in Ryder Cup play comes in singles. The nasty Europeans have won four of five Ryder Cups in which El Tigre has competed.
Now, we're not saying Woods is selfish, but the stats speak for themselves. Even in the Presidents Cup, his record is downright average: 12-11-1.
Maybe the Euros get more fired up when Woods is playing. Maybe the other Americans lose themselves in Woods' aura. Maybe Woods just doesn't care as much if he isn't playing for money or individual glory. But, for whatever reason, when Woods plays in the Ryder Cup, all those British bookies' eyes light up.
Now, though, the Americans have a chance. Team sports is full of illustrious and unthinkable victories when the star player goes down. It's a strange dynamic that baffles even the sports psychologists.
Who will be the Babe Dahlgren of this U.S. Ryder Cup team?
As always, WorldGolf.com welcomes your comments. |
 Cleveland Golf's new VP milled putters appeal to traditionalists
There are those traditionalists out there who prefer an old-school flanged blade putter or, at most, a small mallet. For these golfers, Cleveland's new VP milled line ($150) offers up-to-date alignment guidance and CNC milling incorporated into classic head designs.
Also: WorldGolf.com's Equipment Room
 Tiger's great last gasp of '08: The U.S. Open in pictures
The 2008 U.S. Open started with talk over Torrey Pines and its ability to provide a championship test. It ended with Tiger Woods limping away with the USGA's trophy, calling it "probably the best" of his 14 major championship wins. Here's a look back at one of the most unforgettable Opens ever ...
Blog: Will Tiger's body end up being his greatest foe?
 Belle Terre Country Club near New Orleans: Hot greens, cold beer and Pete Dye golf
Belle Terre Country Club in La Place, La. is a straightforward layout with not many doglegs, with the exception of No. 18 which wraps around a lake, daring you to go for it. Belle Terre is a Pete Dye work, without the eccentricities for which he is knows, Tim McDonald writes. It's an enjoyable course, more so when you consider the very reasonable green fees.
Also: New Orleans golf courses
|
| Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa |
 Enjoy your stay at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa and play 1 rounds of golf per day at any of these courses, choosing from Whirlwind Cattail, Whirlwind Devil's Claw, Ocotillo, The Duke, Legacy Golf Resorts, Raven at South Mountain and many more, starting from $140.
Price Range: $140 - $460
Dates: May 1, 2008 - December 31, 2008
For details, call 1-800-767-3574 or click here. |
| CLIENT FEATURE |
|
 Play golf on sunny Grand Bahama with BahamasGolf.com
With balmy weather year-round, and air-services making it possible for you to leave the States in the morning and be on the first tee in early afternoon, Grand Bahama is ideal for those who want a quick golf fix. Or a longer one with time to savor the laid-back lifestyle the island offers. BahamasGolf.com can help you plan a great island golf
getaway.
Also: Request a Grand Bahama trip quote |
|
