The only course that will remain difficult under all conditions will be one that is designed and kept for golf of a stereotyped, monotonous character, and this makes a most uninteresting proposition. BOBBY JONES

Available via Amazon (US): Golf Architecture For Normal People

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Reviews:

"Golf Architecture for Normal People . . . should be required reading for those who are not ashamed to admit they know little about the subject, and for those who think they do . . . . Golf course architecture geeks have trouble slimming their thoughts down to bite-sized chunks, but Shackelford has achieved a remarkable success here." —Independent (Ireland)

"From the relative newcomer who’s slowly getting hooked to those that have played the game for most of their lives and think they know a thing or two, Golf Architecture for Normal People provides a solid and sober perspective that will help everyone recognize why some golf courses are worth playing more than once while a single trip around others is all you’re ever likely to want or need." —Links Magazine.

“It’s a wonderful book. An easy read that arrives just in time for your summer reading list. If you’ve never thought about how an appreciation for course design could heighten your enjoyment of the game, you must check this out.”—The Peterborough Examiner

"As in his prior publications, in his newest book Shackelford shows a deep appreciation for what can be done to create a golf course that appeals to the broadest possible golfing audience…Shackelford’s prose is succinct, often witty, and accessible."—Cape Gazette

"Author, blogger and golf architecture expert Geoff Shackelford, who helped Gil Hanse design Rustic Canyon and restore 2023 U.S. Open host Los Angeles Country Club, taps into his passion by creating a guide that helps every golfer understand the nuances of course design. Published by Tatra Press, the 164-page hardcover book is a must-read for every golfer to better understand the game they love." —Golf Pass

"Shackelford provides an informative picture [and]...sprinkles in history lessons about those who planted the game's architectural roots, defines common terms and helps you hone your eyes when it comes to identifying some of the tricks of the trade."—FORE Magazine

"This new book does a great job demystifying golf course design ideas for average players, but can also be a beneficial read fro PGA Professionals and other golf course employees to get a better understanding of their home courses." —PGA Magazine

“Shackelford will guide the reader to an enriching understanding of design. Consider it a primer on the fascinating subject of course architecture. If you don’t know what a template hole is, or a Biarritz, or a Redan, or a Punchbowl, you will be gently educated, and perhaps enjoy playing a course with any of these holes that much more. There’s a lot here, packed into 160 pages.” LORNE RUBENSTEIN, ScoreGolf

August 12, 2013

All Set: Bethpage Black For '19 PGA, '24 Ryder Cup

August 12, 2013/ Geoff Shackelford

Golfweek Staff reports that the PGA and State of New York are putting the finishing touches on a package delivering the 2019 PGA to Bethpage and the 2024 Ryder Cup to the Black Course. Golfweek Staff says the announcement is set for August 13th, but my sources say the negotiations are not complete and an announcement is a ways off.

As reported by Sam Weinman two years ago, this process started under PGA CEO Joe Steranka and has been finalized by new CEO Pete Bevacqua, who worked at the USGA during the 2009 U.S. Open there. A native New Yorker, Bevacqua negotiated with then Attorney General Andrew Cuomo on an amicable settlement for U.S. Open ticket refunds after rain inundated the event.

Last week, Bevacqua praised the now-Governor for his help with the PGA at Oak Hill.

Just to echo Ted's thoughts, Rochester is such a golf savvy town and we have received such unbelievable support, it's really been incredible to see these first three days. Also, I think it's absolutely worth noting that the reception we've had from the State of New York and Governor Cuomo's office, almost unprecedented support. I think bringing a major championship into any part of the country is a big endeavor and it's big business for this region, and I want to thank the governor's office in the State of New York.

This does not get a future PGA out to the west coast, something Bevacqua stated last week was a top priority. However, because you all watched the Grey Goose 19th Hole last week where John Feinstein, David Fay and myself discussed this news, the Ryder Cup at The Black will be most electric venue the event has ever seen. And the awkward routing of the Black actually works beautifully in a Ryder Cup format.

I have just two requests for the PGA of America: integrate the event more closely with New York City any way you can. And please, please use the 18th hole on the Red Course for the finishing hole. Please!

Update on 2013-08-13 16:55 by Geoff

**Our Bethpage discussion from the Grey Goose 19th Hole last week:

Geoff Shackelford

Geoff Shackelford is a Senior Writer for Golfweek magazine, a weekly contributor to Golf Channel's Morning Drive, is co-host of The Ringer's ShackHouse is the author of eleven books.

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