This Week at WorldGolf.com: May 27, 2008
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The last thing the Olympic Games needs is millionaire golfers winning still more gold
They've been talking on and off for about a quarter century about getting golf back into the Olympics; the last time it was played as an Olympic sport was 1904.
Now, it's one of seven sports being considered for the 2016 Olympics. It's considered one of the three favorites, along with squash and baseball. PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem and his European counterpart met with Olympic officials last week in Switzerland.
I sincerely hope golf (and baseball, too for that matter) gets the thumbs down.
Remember when they added basketball? How the big-time NBA stars kicked the living hell out of the world, and America crowed? I have to admit I puffed up a little at first, but then I began enjoying it when the American pros began losing in the Olympics, not because I objected to the unseemly nationalism, but because it showed that a great team can beat a collection of selfish egos.
Speaking of selfish egos, I wouldn't be that thrilled at seeing Tiger Woods or any multi-millionaire golfer holding up the gold medal.
It just doesn't seem right.
For the pros, the Olympics would rank down there somewhere between the majors and the Memorial. It's something they might fit in their schedule if it's convenient. For the true amateur, it's the ultimate.
Wait a minute, you say. They're doing it for the pride of the country and they aren't getting paid for it. They'd be making a great sacrifice.
Back off, I say. Nobody does anything for free. How many commercials you think you'd see for Tiger Woods, Olympic champion?
It all takes away from the true spirit of what the Games are supposed to be.
Still, I have to admit I would love to see the pampered pros having to live like real people. Imagine Vijay Singh staying in the Olympic Village with the other commoners.
One more word about another sport being considered: Softball. Softball isn't an Olympic sport. It's barely a sport. It's sport-lite.
As always, WorldGolf.com welcomes your comments. |
 Olympic View Golf Club gives golfers a front-row seat to
Vancouver Island's wonder
Olympic View Golf Club in Victoria, the only western Canadian course Tiger Woods has played in competition, gets golfers up close and personal to one of the most scenic areas in British Columbia. It's a must-play on the Vancouver Island Golf Trail, Chris Baldwin writes.
Also: Canadian golf vacation package deals
 No deaths reported so far at John Daly's Murder Rock Golf and C.C. near Branson, Mo.
When you hear the name John Daly's Murder Rock Golf and Country Club, you surely think murder, mayhem and "Oh, my aching back." Calm down. Nobody's getting killed here. "This course is all about precision," says Assistant Golf Professional Mike Meade. In his review, National Golf Editor Tim McDonald calls Murder Rock an "engaging" Branson-area course.
Gallery: John Daly's Murder Rock Golf and Country Club
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 Bluegreen Communities: Experience eases the risk in a volatile real estate market
It's not all gloom and doom in the real estate market, you just have to know where and how to look. Your dream golf community property can still be found, especially if you have the aid of an experienced firm on your side. Bluegreen Golf Communities have been in the business for more than four decades and has sold more than 55,000 home sites in 32 states. They've persevered through real estate crunches in the past and understand the uncertainty many first-time buyers may feel presently.
Also: Reader golf course reviews at WorldGolf.com
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