MUSINGS ON GREATNESS

First things first – there is no such thing as objectivity when it comes to assessing the greatness of a golf course.  And objectivity in ranking one golf course’s greatness versus another?  Please.   Fortunately though when it comes to having good geeky fun with your buddies talking golf courses, objectivity is irrelevant.  What isContinue reading “MUSINGS ON GREATNESS”

Shoreacres Tour by Jon Cavalier

SHOREACRES – A COURSE TOUR & APPRECIATION Lake Bluff, IL – Seth Raynor, 1916 If you’ve read my previous tours or follow me on Twitter or Instagram (shameless plug: @linksgems), you know that I am a fan of the designs of Charles Blair Macdonald and his protégé, Seth Raynor.  I’ve played several dozen “MacRaynor” designs,Continue reading “Shoreacres Tour by Jon Cavalier”

Jon Cavalier’s Top 10 New Courses in 2015

The end of the year is a time for reflection on days past, anticipation of days to come, and most of all, a time for … LISTS!  Top 10 lists seem to be everywhere this week, and far be it for me to resist this trend. So, in that vein, here are the Top 10Continue reading “Jon Cavalier’s Top 10 New Courses in 2015”

2015 Geeked on Golf Tour

What a year. I took the madness to another level this year, playing 49 different golf courses in 11 different states.  34 of those golf courses were first time plays.  As an indication of the quality of the 2015 golf adventure, I would make a point and an effort to go back to 33 ofContinue reading “2015 Geeked on Golf Tour”

Growing Grass – An Interview with Superintendent Brian Palmer

“I’ve had enough of winter already. Looking forward to growing grass again.” This text message, sent to me by Shoreacres Superintendent Brian Palmer, sums up what I love and respect about Supers.  It is rare indeed to find a profession that consistently produces such passionate and dedicated individuals.  Brian epitomizes that professional commitment. The seasonContinue reading “Growing Grass – An Interview with Superintendent Brian Palmer”

Journey Along the Shores – Part 9 (Inspiration for the New Canal Shores)

In recent Journey Along the Shores posts, I have been focused on what we are doing to improve the course now.  With Autumn quickly approaching, stay tuned for news on the next batch of improvement projects. Let’s take a break from the present, and revisit the subject of the future of Canal Shores.  There areContinue reading “Journey Along the Shores – Part 9 (Inspiration for the New Canal Shores)”

An Homage to the Short Par 3

“In this era of obscene power, the likes of which the game has never witnessed, why not strive to induce a little fun into the mix and at the same time present a true test of delicacy and accuracy?” – Ben Crenshaw This quote from an essay in Geoff Shackelford’s book Masters of the LinksContinue reading “An Homage to the Short Par 3”

Soul Man – An Interview with Architect Drew Rogers

The call was supposed to just be a quick “hello” and “thank you” for some photos.  An hour later, I realized that I had found a kindred spirit in realm of golf geekdom. Beyond sharing similar perspectives on the game, Drew and I are also fortunate to have spent significant time at the Old ElmContinue reading “Soul Man – An Interview with Architect Drew Rogers”