When one comes to the quality of the bunkers and other hazards we pass into realm of much dispute and argument. Primarily bunkers should be sand bunkers purely, not composed of gravel, stones or dirt. Whether this or that bunker is well placed, has caused more intensely heated arguments outside of the realms of religion, than has ever been my lot to listen to. C.B. MACDONALD
Available via Amazon (US): Golf Architecture For Normal People
Barnes And Noble (online and in stores)
Bookshop.org option to support local independent bookstores.
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
"Arnold can't be Arnold this week at Oakmont."
/Video: Inside Arnold Palmer's Latrobe Office
/While Arnold Palmer is not expected to visit Oakmont this week, his home and office in Latrobe are not too far away. Leave it to Callaway's Hashtag Chad and A.J. Voelpel to get a tour of The King's office from the great Doc Giffen.
It's 45 minutes but the most extensive look I've seen and a dream tour for a golf memorabilia fan.
Arnold: The King To Publish Memoir Follow-Up
/Rickie Visited The King To Explain His Scheduling Conflict
/After some early week conjecture about America's top players passing up a chance to play before Arnold Palmer, "word trickled" out according to ESPN.com's Bob Harig that Rickie Fowler visited Palmer to apologize for not entering the API.
The news was confirmed reluctantly, as the idea to drive to Orlando from West Palm Beach and have lunch with Palmer was not meant to generate any publicity, but to simply do what Fowler felt was the right thing and express his reasons for having to pass due to a scheduling conflict. It was an incredible gesture, and showed an impressive level of understanding.
Or he just missed eating at Bay Hill?
I suppose this and Bubba's gesture should be admired, but why not just play the tournament? Take a helicopter. That's what the Shark would have done.
**Rickie's conflict: had to get to Texas early.
Divot and our weekend house guest have already bonded. Snuggle time @RickieFowler?! 🐶 pic.twitter.com/sz82fJV2Ak
— Erin Walker (@tourwifetravels) March 19, 2016
Video: The King Talks To Jimmy Roberts
/Players Test The King's 1960 Persimmon Driver
/API Getting Even More Enhanced Status
/"Pure and simple, it is disrespectful to The King."
/The King Retires...From Honorary Starter Ballstriking Duties
/He went out on a high note, as he's prone to do.
But as Tim Rosaforte first reported on Morning Drive and Dave Shedloski reports for GolfDigest.com, Arnold Palmer is no longer going to hit the opening tee shot. But he still intends to be present.