Planet Golf News for Friday, November 8, 2024

Don Rea Jr. elected president of PGA of America | Streelman, Whitney, Hoey share lead in Mexico in windy World Wide Technology Championship | Russia's Guseva shoots 67 for share of Lotte Championship lead in Hawaii | Stewart Cink leads by three at season-ending Charles Schwab Cup Championship | Tommy Fleetwood ties course record to grab first-round lead at 2024 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship

Author

PGN News Team
November 08, 2024

Friday, November 8, 2024

PlanetGolfNews + Marie Birdie

Marie Birdie is a clothing brand dedicated to providing young women with the sense of empowerment and individuality. Now available at select PGA Tour Superstores. NOW OPEN the Marie Birdie Store @ 7170 S Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach, FL

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

This week in the world of golf, we’ve seen big moves, iconic partnerships, and high-stakes competitions unfold across courses from Cabo San Lucas to Abu Dhabi. Let’s dive into the latest from the green and beyond.

Starting with a new era in leadership, Don Rea Jr. was elected the 44th president of the PGA of America during their annual meeting in Michigan. A PGA Master Professional and owner of Arizona’s Augusta Ranch Golf Club, Rea has been a dedicated member since 2002. He steps into this two-year term ready to support over 31,000 PGA professionals, emphasizing the need for community and professional growth in the sport. Following John Lindert, he’ll be working on initiatives aimed at fostering the development of PGA professionals across the country.

In another milestone, Billy Andrade and his caddie, Mark “Ziggy” Zyons, wrapped up their 27th season together, marking the longest-running player-caddie partnership in golf history. This duo, who teamed up back in 1997, has demonstrated how loyalty, mutual respect, and camaraderie can sustain an enduring partnership. As Andrade prepares for the World Wide Technology Championship in Cabo, he’s not only reflecting on this achievement but is also looking forward to what’s next for them as a team.

In Florida, the prestigious PGA National Resort & Spa might soon change ownership, as London-based Henderson Park eyes a $425 million acquisition of the property. Known for its five championship courses, the resort has undergone extensive renovations since Brookfield Asset Management acquired it in 2018. If the sale goes through, Salamander Hotels would step in as the new property managers, potentially bringing even more luxury to a market that’s seeing rising demand for private golf clubs and upscale hospitality.

As for tournament action, things are heating up across multiple events. At the World Wide Technology Championship in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, players are battling fierce winds at El Cardonal, the Tiger Woods-designed course. Tom Whitney, Rico Hoey, and Kevin Streelman share the early lead after carding 67s in blustery conditions, with defending champion Erik van Rooyen close behind. Taylor Montgomery, in a unique twist, played with a Hall of Fame outfielder as his caddie after his father fell ill, showcasing that teamwork can look different in unexpected ways.

In Hawaii at the LOTTE Championship, A Lim Kim, Nataliya Guseva, Ruixin Liu, and Yuri Yoshida are neck-and-neck at 9-under after two rounds, facing equally tough winds at Hoakalei Country Club. Young Russian player Guseva, who posted a thrilling eagle, has been making waves with her calm focus in the face of challenging conditions. The leaderboard is tight, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

Meanwhile, over at the Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Phoenix, Stewart Cink opened with an impressive 7-under 64, putting him in the lead. Cink, who’s been on fire since his debut on the senior circuit, has a three-shot cushion over K.J. Choi. Ernie Els, currently at the top of the season-long Charles Schwab standings, is aiming to hold on to his lead for the coveted $1 million bonus, though players like Jerry Kelly and Steven Alker are poised to keep the competition fierce.

In the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Tommy Fleetwood has been grabbing attention after carding a record-tying 10-under 62 to lead after the first round. Rory McIlroy, who’s angling for his sixth Race to Dubai title, had a solid start at 5-under, positioning himself well to keep up the momentum. The course at Yas Links has been rewarding aggressive play, and Fleetwood’s putter change seems to be paying off big time, offering a fresh start as he defends his position at the top.

It’s an exciting time in golf with major moves and memorable moments happening across the sport, from new faces at the helm to enduring partnerships and thrilling tournament showdowns. With all eyes on the courses and the winds of change blowing, the game promises an action-packed close to the season.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Don Rea Jr. elected president of PGA of America

Don Rea Jr. has been elected as the 44th president of the PGA of America during the annual meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a PGA Master Professional and owner of Augusta Ranch Golf Club in Arizona. Rea, who has been a member since 2002, will serve a two-year term succeeding John Lindert. He emphasizes the importance of serving over 31,000 PGA professionals and aims to support their growth and expertise in the golf industry.

The longest-running player-caddie partnership in golf is wrapping up its 27th straight season (and isn't done yet)

Billy Andrade and his caddie Mark "Ziggy" Zyons are concluding their 27th season together, marking the longest-running player-caddie partnership in golf history. Their collaboration began in 1997 and has been characterized by mutual respect, trust, and open communication. As Andrade prepares for the World Wide Technology Championship, he reflects on their journey and the dynamics that have contributed to their enduring relationship.

PGA National might sell to London-based private equity real estate firm for $425 million

PGA National Resort & Spa in Florida may be sold for $425 million to London-based Henderson Park. The resort, known for its five championship golf courses, was previously acquired by Brookfield Asset Management in 2018 for $218 million, which included significant renovations. If the sale goes through, Salamander Hotels will manage the property, potentially enhancing its appeal in a market lacking upscale hotels. The demand for private golf clubs in the area contributes to the resort's high valuation.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

Three share lead at windy World Wide Technology Championship

World Wide Technology Championship - PGA Tour - El Cardonal at Diamante - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The 2024 World Wide Technology Championship is currently underway at El Cardonal at Diamante in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

After the first round, Tom Whitney is tied at the top of the leaderboard with Rico Hoey and Kevin Streelman, who also managed to card 67s in the blustery conditions.

Defending champion Erik van Rooyen had a solid start to his title defense. He began with birdies on his first two holes and was 6-under through 14 holes before the wind picked up. Van Rooyen finished with a 4-under 68, putting him in a good position after the first round.

The wind has been a significant factor, with players describing it as fierce and challenging. Rico Hoey commented that “any shot on the green is a great shot” due to the strong winds off the Pacific Ocean.

Taylor Montgomery, who is desperate for a good week to improve his FedEx Cup standing, also had a strong start with a 4-under 68. Interestingly, Montgomery’s round featured a caddie change, with his father being replaced by a Hall of Fame outfielder partway through the round.

As the tournament progresses, players will continue to battle the winds and each other on the 7,363-yard parkland-style layout. With three rounds remaining, the leaderboard is sure to see more changes as players vie for the title and crucial FedEx Cup points in this late-season event.

World Wide Technology Championship Stories

World Wide Technology Championship Videos

Out on A Lim: Kim leads at Lotte Championship

LOTTE Championship pres. by Hoakalei - LPGA - Hoakalei Country Club - Ewa Beach, HI

After the second round of the LOTTE Championship in the Aloha State, there are four players tied for the lead at the Hoakalei Country Club in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The current co-leaders are: Nataliya Guseva (Russia), A Lim Kim (South Korea), Ruixin Liu (China), and Yuri Yoshida (Japan).

All four players are at 9-under par with a total score of 135 after two rounds of play.

Nataliya Guseva, a 21-year-old former University of Miami student, shot an impressive 5-under 67 in the second round, which included an eagle from 120 yards on the par-4 seventh hole. She managed to navigate the windy conditions effectively, focusing on staying present throughout her round.

A Lim Kim, who was the first-round leader, maintained her position at the top despite bogeying the last two holes in her second round for a 69. Currently ranked 65th in the Race to CME Globe, Kim is aiming to break into the top 60 to qualify for the season finale.

Ruixin Liu carded a 68 in challenging afternoon winds, emphasizing the importance of patience in her approach to the round.

Yuri Yoshida also shot a 67, performing well despite the strong winds.

Just one shot behind the leaders is Ryann O’Toole, who posted a 66 in the second round. Auston Kim is two strokes back at 7-under par, also having shot a 66.

The tournament is being played in windy conditions at Hoakalei Country Club, which is presenting a significant challenge to the players. As the competition progresses, the leaderboard remains tight, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the LOTTE Championship.

LOTTE Championship Stories

LOTTE Championship Videos Round 1

LOTTE Championship Videos Round 2

Stewart Cink leads 2024 Charles Schwab Cup a day after helping Phoenix Suns mascot dunk

Charles Schwab Cup Championship - PGA Tour Champions - Phoenix Country Club - Phoenix, AZ

The Charles Schwab Cup Championship, the season-ending event of the PGA Tour Champions, is underway at Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix, Arizona. After the first round, Stewart Cink has taken a commanding lead with an impressive 7-under 64. The 51-year-old golfer, who secured his first senior victory earlier this year at the Ally Challenge, carded eight birdies and just one bogey to establish a three-shot advantage over his nearest competitor.

K.J. Choi is currently in second place after shooting a 4-under 67. A trio of players, including Jerry Kelly, Paul Broadhurst, and Stephen Ames, are tied for third at 3-under 68. Ames, who has won three times this season, is also third in the overall Charles Schwab Cup standings and remains in contention for the season-long title.

Ernie Els, the current leader in the Charles Schwab Cup standings, opened with a solid 2-under 69. He’s aiming to maintain his position at the top of the rankings and secure the $1 million bonus awarded to the season-long champion. Els is joined at 2-under by several other notable players, including Bernhard Langer, Rod Pampling, Joe Durant, and Alex Cejka.

Defending champion Steven Alker, who sits second in the overall standings, started with a 1-under 70. He remains in contention for both the tournament victory and the Charles Schwab Cup title.

The tournament features the top 36 players from the season-long points list, although Steve Stricker, a prominent figure on the tour, is notably absent from the field. As the event progresses, the race for both the tournament victory and the Charles Schwab Cup remains tight, with multiple players still in contention for the season-long honor.

Charles Schwab Championship Stories

Charles Schwab Championship Videos

Rory McIlroy Makes Solid Start In Abu Dhabi In First Round Since Swing Changes

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship - DP World Tour - Yas Links - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, part of the DP World Tour, kicked off at Yas Links in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with an exciting first round. Tommy Fleetwood emerged as the early leader, carding an impressive 10-under-par 62 to tie the course record. The Dubai resident’s exceptional performance put him at the top of the leaderboard after day one.

Following closely behind Fleetwood were Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen and American Johannes Veerman, who both shot excellent rounds of 9-under 63. Olesen’s bogey-free round included two eagles, while Veerman managed one eagle in his strong start.

LIV Golf’s Tyrrell Hatton also made a strong showing, finishing at 8-under despite two bogeys. His round was highlighted by an impressive streak of six birdies in seven holes around the turn. Englishman Paul Waring matched Hatton’s score to join him at 8-under.

Rory McIlroy, who is aiming to secure his sixth Race to Dubai title, made a solid start with a 5-under-par opening round. McIlroy’s performance included three birdies on both the front and back nine, with his only bogey coming on the par-three 17th hole. His strong start puts him in contention to achieve the first or second-place finish he needs to clinch the Race to Dubai title with a week to spare.

The tournament saw plenty of low scoring on a warm, sunny day in Abu Dhabi. Notable moments included Aaron Cockerill’s hole-in-one on the 157-yard par-three 13th, adding to the excitement of the opening round.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Fleetwood to see if he can maintain his lead, while McIlroy’s pursuit of another Race to Dubai title adds an extra layer of intrigue to the competition at Yas Links.

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Stories

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Videos

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Inside the bag: UCLA's Omar Morales reveals gold-faced prototype putter

Omar Morales, a senior from UCLA and top-ranked Latin amateur, is competing in the World Wide Technology Championship using a sponsor exemption. He has previously participated in major events like the Mexico Open and U.S. Open. His equipment includes a Ping G430 LST driver, TaylorMade P7TW irons co-designed by Tiger Woods, and a new L.A.B. Golf OZ.1 Pro Proto putter with a unique gold face. Morales aims to make the cut for the first time in his fifth PGA TOUR start, showcasing his skills and equipment.

Who joined Tommy Fleetwood in changing equipment in Abu Dhabi?

At the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, several players, including Tommy Fleetwood and Min Woo Lee, made notable equipment changes. Fleetwood switched to a prototype TaylorMade putter, achieving impressive results with 26 putts and tying the course record. Lee introduced an Odyssey Giraffe-Beam 7 putter. Other players like Matt Wallace and Shane Lowry also updated their equipment, with Lowry using a new set of Srixon clubs and Justin Rose opting for Titleist blades for his irons.

This new technology might change how you get drinks on golf courses

Zigit is a new mobile app-enabled platform utilizing facial-recognition technology to enhance beverage service on golf courses. Players can quickly order drinks from Zigit dispensers, reducing wait times and increasing revenue for courses. Initial implementations show a 30% increase in customer spending, and the technology is expected to expand beyond golf courses to other venues. Zigit aims to provide convenience while ensuring compliance with age restrictions through robust identification measures.

Overheard in the Club House

This Hall of Fame baseball player caddied for Taylor Montgomery at 2024 World Wide Technology Championship

At the 2024 World Wide Technology Championship, Taylor Montgomery initially had his father as a caddie, but after his father fell ill, Hall of Fame outfielder Larry Walker stepped in. Montgomery performed well, shooting a 4-under 68, and expressed his fondness for the course. Walker, who has a home in the area, helped Montgomery maintain his momentum despite a couple of setbacks during the round.

Rules situation stumps Tour pro. Then playing partner wise-cracks 3 words 

During the first round of the World Wide Technology Championship, golfer Daniel Berger faced a rules dilemma when a gust of wind moved his ball as he attempted to mark it. His playing partner, Harris English, humorously suggested a "four shot penalty," which was not the case. A rules official clarified that since Berger had not yet marked his ball, he could play it from the new position without penalty. The incident highlighted the importance of understanding the rules of golf in competitive play.

Memories made as top golfer Adam Scott swings by for special hospital visit with young patients

Adam Scott, the former World Number One golfer, visited young patients at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi, bringing joy and inspiration ahead of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. The event included entertainment from a trickshot specialist and musical performances, emphasizing the importance of positive experiences for children in care. The visit was organized in partnership with Miral, highlighting the role of sports in uplifting young patients during challenging times.

Tommy Fleetwood hits back at his critics after career first in Abu Dhabi

Tommy Fleetwood expressed confidence in his putting skills despite criticism, achieving a career-best opening round of 10-under 62 at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. He discussed working with renowned putting coach Phil Kenyon and sought advice from fellow golfers Ken Brown and David Howell to improve his performance on the greens. Fleetwood aims to convert more putts after a challenging summer, while currently tied for the lead in the tournament.

Relegated LIV Golfer Among Notables In DP World Tour Q-school Line-Up

The 2024 DP World Tour Qualifying School features a strong field, including relegated LIV golfer Kalle Samooja, who aims to regain his DP World Tour card. The Final Stage consists of six rounds at Infinitum Golf Club in Spain, with a cut after four rounds. Notable participants include Stephen Gallacher, Edoardo Molinari, and Eddie Pepperell, among others. The top 20 players will secure their Tour cards, with the competition being particularly fierce this year.

'Just Terrible' - Padraig Harrington Has Strong Words On New PGA Tour Proposals

Padraig Harrington criticized proposed changes to the PGA Tour, calling them "terrible," particularly the reduction of Monday qualifiers and field sizes. He believes these changes limit opportunities for lower-ranked players and are driven by those in power to maintain exclusivity. While he acknowledges the need to address slow play, he emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities for all players, suggesting that a strong second tour could help. The vote on these proposals is scheduled for November 18, with potential implementation in the 2026 season.

Former LIV Golfer Gives Candid Take On Men's Golf Landscape

Laurie Canter, a former LIV golfer, expresses that many players are tired of discussing the division in men's golf and seek a resolution. He notes that the relationship between the DP World Tour and LIV Golf has softened, highlighting that the current landscape offers lucrative opportunities with multiple viable tours. Canter, currently 26th in the Race to Dubai standings, hopes for collaboration between the tours while acknowledging the challenges he faces due to his past involvement with LIV Golf.

Rory McIlroy 2014 Vs 2024 - What Do The Stats Say?

Rory McIlroy's performance from 2014 to 2024 shows a decline in major wins, with 2024 marked by near misses, including a notable US Open loss. Statistically, 2014 McIlroy outperformed 2024 in most categories, despite improvements in driving distance and accuracy. His scoring average has worsened, dropping him from first to 52nd in PGA Tour rankings, with significant declines in early round performance. While he remains competitive, recent swing changes indicate a need for improvement to regain his former dominance.

Lee Trevino's golf interest was waning. Then along came Ben Hogan

Lee Trevino reflects on how Ben Hogan's teachings revitalized his interest in golf during a challenging time in his youth. After discovering Hogan's instructional series while in the Marines, Trevino found inspiration and structure, leading to his success in the sport. He credits Hogan with shaping his game and emphasizes the importance of understanding the cause of actions in golf practice and play, a lesson he continues to apply at age eighty-five.

Report: Rory McIlroy to cut back 2025 PGA Tour schedule severely

Rory McIlroy plans to significantly reduce his 2025 PGA Tour schedule, aiming to participate in 18 or 19 events, compared to 27 in 2024. He intends to skip several tournaments he played this year, focusing on arriving at the four major championships feeling refreshed. McIlroy's decision comes after a demanding season and his involvement in negotiations with the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

This golf simulator in a major American airport is creating a stir (and more are coming)

Denver International Airport has introduced Golf DEN, a new golf simulator that allows travelers to practice their swing during layovers. The simulator offers affordable rates, with sessions starting at $20 for 15 minutes, and includes equipment rental. Located on the top floor of Concourse A, Golf DEN is part of a growing trend, with similar facilities already in places like Hong Kong and Dubai, and plans for more to open at Los Angeles International Airport.

Report: Augusta National Adds Four New Members

Augusta National Golf Club has recently admitted four new members: former CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus, former NFL quarterback Eli Manning, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, and Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian. This follows the club's history of an all-male membership until 2012, when it welcomed its first female members. The club continues to maintain secrecy about its membership size, which is estimated to be around 300. Recent reports also highlight recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, which raised concerns about the club's readiness for the 2025 Masters.

The unintended consequence of PGA Tour's proposed changes

The PGA Tour is set for significant changes that may inadvertently benefit the DP World Tour by attracting players from diverse backgrounds to start their professional careers in Europe. With a proposed reduction in full-time members and fewer players ascending from the Korn Ferry Tour, the DP World Tour could see an increase in talent as players reconsider their pathways to the PGA Tour. This shift may enhance the quality of the DP World Tour and create new opportunities for growth within the professional golf landscape.

How far golfers *really* hit their drives, according to data

The document discusses the driving distances of golfers, highlighting that the average male golfer drives the ball 225 yards while female golfers average 178.1 yards. It notes that recreational golfers often overestimate their driving distances compared to professional golfers, who average over 300 yards. The data, sourced from Arccos' Driver Distance Report, also shows that younger and lower-handicap golfers tend to hit the ball further, with those in their 20s averaging 271 yards.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

Latest FedExCup Standings

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LIV Golf Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LPGA Tour Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Marie Birdie is a female-founded and owned golf and active wear brand for tween and teen girls. Our mission is to inspire, delight, and empower girls to enjoy an active lifestyle while playing golf. Now available at select PGA Tour Superstores.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up HERE for FREE