Divot Mix

Golf is not a soulless business. The crowds that sweep over the links like armies of ants are not neglecting the fact that they are enjoying many more things than the play. They are drinking in deep draughts of the glory of earth and sky.  H.N. Wethered

Michigan promotes "green" golf

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Travel eNewsletter is promoting the "green" side of golf by directing golfers to courses that participate in the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program.

The newsletter said, "Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program certified courses are known for going the extra mile to be proactive and it's not uncommon to find additional habitat in the form of vegetative buffers along waterways and no mow areas on the property. These tall grass areas are often designed to attract birds, butterflies, small mammals and reptiles which add another dimension to any golfing experience.

"So, the next time you're thinking about getting in a round of golf, or booking an outing or conference, consider a MTESP certified course. You will know that you're supporting a business that is doing the right thing for the environment and your community."

To see the story, click here.

USGA approves additional forms of club adjustability

A proposed amendment to the 2008 Rules of Golf regarding additional forms of club adjustability has been approved by the USGA. Any such adjustment(s), however, cannot be made during a stipulated round. All new forms of iron and wood adjustability must be approved in advance by the USGA.

The Rules of Golf currently state that woods and irons must not be designed to be adjustable, except for weight. The USGA decided to adopt a proposal made in February after consideration of comments from manufacturers and other interested parties. The association believes the changes regarding adjustability can help many golfers obtain clubs that are well suited to their needs. There is no change to the Rules regarding putters, which already allow weight and other forms of adjustment.

"We believe that helping average golfers without taking away from the challenge of the game is a good thing for golf," said Dick Rugge, USGA senior technical director.
"PGA Tour players have long had the opportunity to have their clubs adjusted or modified quickly and often. This has allowed them to fit their clubs to their swings as they feel the need to do so. By relaxing the rules to permit club adjustability, average golfers can enjoy similar fitting benefits."

Any questions regarding the change to the rules governing adjustability of clubs can be sent to Rugge, at drugge@usga.org.

Tee It Up for the Troops reaches 33 states

A fundraising campaign for wounded American soldiers and their families that began two years ago at one golf course in suburban Mendota Heights, Minn., has grown to at least 110 courses in 33 states.

On Sept. 7, Mendakota Country Club (CC) and other golf facilities will host Tee It Up for the Troops tournaments, while more than 100 others will raise donations in other ways for the campaign. The goal since 2005 has been to make the Friday prior to Sept. 11 a National Day of Golf in support of all who serve. Any golfer and any course can participate.

"We have asked golfers to contribute 10 percent above their green fees," said "J.B." Ball of Savage, who started Tee It Up for the Troops at Mendakota CC. Our motto is, 'One day, 10 percent, change a life.'"

In its first year, Mendakota CC and Tee It Up for the Troops raised $80,000, which was dispersed in the form of 26 scholarships around the country to the fallen and disabled, and their immediate families.

This year, Ball anticipates generating more than $1 million, with proceeds divided between the Wounded Warrior Project, which assists the wounded on their steps to recovery; Fisher House, which provides housing for the families of hospitalized soldiers; and some of the approximate 250 America Supports You organizations.

 "We already have commitments in excess of $500,000," said Ball, whose son Tyler fought in the Army in Iraq. When he asked his son what he needed, Tyler responded, "I’m fine. Do something for the soldiers and their families back home."

 "We’ll do over $140,000 here locally. Two courses in California will both make $100,000 or more. On Oct. 12 there is a huge event at Lake of the Ozarks – Four Seasons Resort, where owner Peter Brown will have all three courses running events. It is a simple way for all of us to say ‘Thank you’ to those who serve. Make a tee time, golf, donate," Ball said.

Bridgestone Golf has donated more than 25,000 golf balls for the golf events in the first two years, Ball said. The company has also contributed golf clubs which have been sent to Iraq and Afghanistan, where the Army has set up driving ranges for the troops to relax from the danger and tension of the war.

The National Day of Golf will be on Sept. 5 in 2008 and Sept. 11 in 2009. To locate a 2007 event, click here.