Connect with us

Opinion & Analysis

Where have all the caddies gone?

Published

on

Professional golf events often support certain causes or foundations, helping to raise both money and awareness. The BMW Championship, one-of-four events in the 2014 FedEx Playoffs, has raised over $16M for the Evans Scholars Foundation, which has sent over 10,000 student caddies to college. Having carried hundreds of loops myself, I couldn’t help but smile by the pleasant reminder of how caddying positively impacts the lives of the kids who partake. My nostalgia for caddying stems not from good money made, but life lessons learned.

Since caddying meaningfully connects kids and adults through golf, it begs the question, where have all the caddies gone?

90’s Golf Real-Estate Boom: Caddy-Killer

My assumption is that a decrease in caddy programs occurred in the 1990’s when 60 percent of the golf courses built were tied to real-estate development. David Hueber, former President and CEO of the National Golf Foundation, explains in his piece “Code Blue”: For Golf Course Real Estate Development: “Code Green” For Sustainable Golf Course Redevelopment that:

Too many golf courses were built, too much was spent on developing them and, as a result, many of these golf courses are not financially viable enterprises. Also, these golf courses were often too difficult, too expensive and took too long to play, which has eventually translated into having a large number of golf courses that do not meet the needs of the golf industry’s ultimate consumers… average golfer

Hueber goes on to examine the cost of building courses from the 1960’s to the 1990’s where the average range rose from $190K-$380K (60’s) to $540K-$1.08M (70’s) to $2M-$4M (80’s) to $3.8M-$7.6M (90’s) across the respective generations. Hueber’s point — that real-estate centric golf courses are not economically sustainable — makes sense according to research from the National Golf Foundation stating that there are currently 4,050 private clubs in the U.S. representing an 18 percent decrease from the golf course peak in 1988.

With economically unsustainable business models, private clubs will do what they must to survive, including cutting caddy programs to make six-figures of cart revenue. According to the Club Managers Association of America’s 2014 Finance and Operations Report, 32 percent of all private club respondents have caddy programs. The report also shows that the the median private club cart count sits at 60 with median total club cart revenue at $207K+.

More Caddies in Massachusetts

I was pleased to learn that caddying is on the rise in Massachusetts. I spoke with Colin McGuire, Assistant Executive Director at the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund, who provided some interesting statistics:

There are currently about 30 caddie programs and roughly 3,000 caddies in Massachusetts. The population has actually grown in last few years as more people like to walk as a form of exercise.

I also reached out to Frankie Cartaglia, veteran Caddymaster, Starter, and Outside Operations Manager at the Wellesley Country Club who explained:

For my first 10 years I never got caddies out during the week. The last five years it’s all changed. I now have guys texting me asking for specific caddies when they bring their guests. At our major member guest, half of the field now walks with caddies.  The game changer for us occurred when taking a caddy on weekend mornings became “recommended.”  People didn’t love it at first, but when they actually experienced how much better golf is with a good caddy, members started requesting caddies all the time.

Cart Golf is Bad Golf

As courses continue to close, we as a golfing community need to work together to bring back the wonderful traditions of the game such as caddying and cut out the fat, specifically economically unsustainable, real-estate-centric golf courses. In my previous article, In Search of Answers to Improve Pace of Play, dozens of folks lamented how carts are slowing down the game because many golfers don’t understand cart etiquette. I believe that properly trained caddies could help speed up the pace of play.

[youtube id=”IhknFgI8tJY” width=”620″ height=”360″]

While Tony D’Annunzio (the caddy above) may have some off-the-course troubles, he nonetheless does comically demonstrate the ability for caddies to help speed up pace of play. Many of 21st century cart-riding, beer-chugging, pot-smoking, 100+ shooting hackers are not that different than the elderly couple when it comes to pace of play. And for the record, I have no issue with people crushing beers (a great course revenue source) on the links, just don’t take over five hours while doing so.

So Who Wants A Caddy?

Unfortunately for most of us, caddies are not available at the local public courses we play. Further, I don’t have the money at age 25 to pay an extra $70 for someone to carry my bag. That said, as I breezed through a quick round this past Saturday morning at Putterham Meadow, a muni just outside of Boston, the thought occurred to me that I might actually want a caddy. And I’m not talking about a lifer, but a local middle or high-school-kid that wants to make $50 bucks carrying two light bags for four hours. I’d even be willing to pay an extra $5 to get the course behind the program and mitigate lost cart revenue.

While not all caddies become golfers, all will learn to understand, appreciate, and even love the game of golf. My mind continues to boggle as some people view footgolf as the game’s next savior while caddying — one of the game’s most storied traditions — seemingly fades away. I’m interested in bringing caddying back to golf; who is with me?

Your Reaction?
  • 31
  • LEGIT9
  • WOW4
  • LOL2
  • IDHT2
  • FLOP2
  • OB2
  • SHANK3

Mike Belkin is a Co-Founder of Nextgengolf & Director of College Golfer Happiness. Mike played varsity golf at Amherst College, currently resides in Boston, and is passionate about growing the game for millennials. Contact Mike on Twitter @MikeBelkin11 or [email protected]

123 Comments

123 Comments

  1. JOEL GOODMAN

    Jan 7, 2015 at 2:08 pm

    NO ONE CAN ARGUE THE VALUE AND ENJOYMENT OF PLAYING GOLF WITH A COMPETENT CADDY ON A LOVELY 70-75 DEGREE DAY. TRY IT IN SOUTH FLORIDA WHERE IT IS 90 DEGREES + MAY THROUGH OCTOBER AND THE STANDARD CADDY FEE IS $100 =+ TIP. IN ADDITION ONLY A VERY FEW OF THE VERY HIGH END PRIVATE CLUBS HAVE ANY CADDIES. THE CART REVENUE IS PROBABLY THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STAYING OPEN OR CLOSING THE DOORS. THEORY IS GREAT BUT REALITY RULES…….

  2. James

    Oct 27, 2014 at 3:20 pm

    A lot of interesting comments but there are more complex issues concerning the costs of hiring a caddie. Economics being the biggest one. The economics of today don’t make caddies viable. If they work now over a certain number of hours which I suspect the government will be all over, then the course is going to have to pay their healthcare. That won’t happen so they won’t get but a couple of days to loop. Two, the cost of everything has shot up due to higher energy prices and higher taxation on us all and not just income taxes mind you. More of our income goes to various taxes than ever before. Three, other than healthcare, government regulations play a role as well. These aren’t the all the problems by any means but the simple fact is a dollar doesn’t buy nearly as much today as it did in 1960.

  3. Pingback: The Lost Caddy Conundrum - The Golf Shop Online Blog

  4. Mike

    Oct 15, 2014 at 11:19 am

    Mike, I’m a firm believer in the “conservation of revenues” law. The golf revenue pie is shrinking every year. Re-jiggering the splits to make room for more caddies seems pretty utopian, and will accomplish little more than shutting down more golf courses per year, since the pie is fixed in size.

    On the other hand, if you want to grow the pie a little, if you want to get more revenue from the golfers, you have to offer something of value to them. I walk, and haul my bag for the exercise, so paying someone else to do it is of no value to me. Help in finding lost balls and reading greens is of some value, but no where near minimum wage. I don’t hit that many errant shots, and I’m not that good a putter. I’m not sure there is an answer.

    Alternately, you could work on reducing the caddy cost, replacing monetary gain (at the expense of cart fees) with something of value to the caddies. Free golf is great for some, I’m sure. The hope of a scholarship is also great, for some. Perhaps free lessons for others? How about equipment or clothing discounts? I think if you build this list out, and stay focused on reducing the cost of caddies, you’ll see demand increase.

    BTW….I don’t buy the pace of play side of this. Some of the slowest guys I’ve EVER played with had caddies hauling their bags, and cleaning up after them. They were just slow, and they just didn’t care. I suspect if they didn’t have caddies they’d still have played in 5 hours. But no divots would have been replaced, and no ball marks would have been fixed, and they still wouldn’t have cared.

  5. Bob

    Oct 15, 2014 at 10:20 am

    I caddied as a private club in the early 60s. I got $3.25 for a round, and hardly ever got tipped. So much for the finances. I did, however, learn things about golf that my friends I play with will never know. I enjoyed every moment of it. I’m going to Bandon this winter, and will definitely hire a caddy. I have a hunch that a good caddy can take four strokes off my score. I’ll find out.

  6. Sam M

    Oct 15, 2014 at 10:14 am

    Anyone know the name of a caddy at Cordevalle think it was Julian or something? Proper legend.

  7. kevin

    Oct 14, 2014 at 7:04 pm

    Being a caddy myself throughout the season on Long Island, I have now had the opportunity through a regular loop to play Shinnecock and Friars Head with a caddy. I will say that Ray and Norman and Shinnecock made the experience so much better with their experience, course knowledge, and stories about Tiger before the 2004 Open, and Phil who they truly adore because he takes care of everyone when he comes, even taking them all over for a chipping lesson. I will also say that my experience at Friars Head was incredible because it was a course designed for caddies, and that there is not a divot left unfilled, or ballmark to be found on the greens. Aside from this, I do feel a lot of peoples anti-caddy sentiment. It truly is an expense that everyone cannot afford, and to be honest they shouldn’t be forced to if they don’t want to be. There is nothing worse than being out with a group that doesn’t want you. However, I have seen the program grow some lazy kids into little, responsible adults that now love the game.

  8. Rich

    Oct 11, 2014 at 7:41 pm

    This article only focuses on the US scene. I’ve been playing golf for 35 years in Australia and I’ve never known any clubs to have dedicated caddies. Caddies are still a must in most of Asia when you play but I’m not sure about the UK or Europe. Perhaps a more diverse article article would be useful. BTW, if all caddies looked like the blonde in the photo, I’d always make sure to hire one!

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 13, 2014 at 6:22 am

      Haha thanks Rich. I’ve only played golf once abroad during a trip in Ireland (which had great caddies, by the way). I realize the WRX community is global so appreciate the feedback.

      • Bob Houle

        Aug 9, 2019 at 11:27 am

        This comment about caddying abroad reminds me of the lithesome lasses old Joe Kennedy always had in Europe back in the day, As I recall one looked like Brigitte Bardot.Played Putterman during Open at The Club twenty years ago when I was only 61. Walked yesterday pulling/pushing cart and bemoaned the lack of caddies. So my research led me here. Any updates? Caddied 1948-1954 MANCHESTER CC Manchester, NH. 1956-57 WILSHIRE CC, Hollywood,CA
        Need I say I loved it? Free golf Mondays at Manchester CC. No such perk at Wilshire.needless to say.

    • Bunty

      Oct 13, 2014 at 7:22 am

      Agree. Play in Perth, WA.

      Have not seen a caddy on a golf course in Aus. Always thought they were just for the pros. Turns out there is some substance behind caddy shack now.

    • Ed Bardoe

      Dec 31, 2014 at 4:15 pm

      Minimum wage in Thailand is $10 a day (recently raised to that level) so caddies are still possible. With so many older people now playing here in the states, I think you miss the importance of carts to them. If I were a rich man (sounds like a song) I would hire a caddie for the service, but would still need a cart to haul my bad back, ankles, knees etc. around the course.

  9. Double Mocha Man

    Oct 10, 2014 at 11:50 pm

    I caddied as a kid back in St. Louis. Had to wait around most of the day until all the regular caddies were out. Not sure if the Caddymaster liked me ’cause I’d end up on the end of the bench, all scrawny 115 lbs., hangin’ around until mid afternoon.

    It all became worth it one summer afternoon when I was among the only available caddies left. Much to my surprise and delight I was assigned to caddy for the Manager of the St. Louis baseball Cardinals! In a foursome that also included the television play-by-play announcer for the Cardinals. I’ll never forget that. I even learned a few new curse words that day.

  10. Jeremy

    Oct 10, 2014 at 4:30 pm

    Amusing side note, the first time I played with a caddy was in India, because it was mandatory. I caught him cheating on my behalf, and then at the end of the round he was angry that I’d paid him “only” the amount I was told by the starter. Good times.

  11. David

    Oct 10, 2014 at 3:49 pm

    Mike-great article and insight. I caddied for 5 years and thought it was a great experience for a young person. I made better $ than friends working fast food jobs etc. and it taught my how to converse and work with adults from a young age. I credit caddying as much as my parents with forming me into the man I am today. I support the Ouimet Fund often and take a caddy any time I can. Public/resort courses can be successful with a program-just look at Bandon Dunes and Chambers Bay. Classic courses that were built by Tillinghast, Ross, etc. were designed for walking-makes carrying 2 bags much easier if the next tee is near the green and not 1/4 mile away. If designers would get back to that style of development more people would walk I believe and caddies would be more in use.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 3:56 pm

      Thanks, David. I would love to see a return to building classic courses that utilize less land. We don’t need 7,000+ yard courses for amateurs. Make the course walking friendly, add caddies, and improve the golfing experience for all!

  12. Jim

    Oct 10, 2014 at 3:23 pm

    Lot of great points in this article. I worked at a club on Long island with a great caddie program through HS and College. Its a great tradition, grows the game and is a great job. For the person who thinks they are working for “minimum wage” i’ve never seen a good caddie walk off after a loop unhappy with their pay.

  13. Mat

    Oct 10, 2014 at 3:13 pm

    Please allow that this is very crass… however I’ll say it anyhow. If you want a caddy program, you have to find someone willing to work for 5 hours outside with minimum wages at best. Those folks exist, but places often get in trouble for “hiring” them.

    If you want to think “outside the box”, I would imagine that a “caddy” isn’t a human being anymore. Just as your car isn’t a horse, it isn’t economical anymore. My thought is that carts have to become single-person mode of transport to move the game along. If you’ve ever seen a foursome with four carts, they’re fast as hell usually.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 3:42 pm

      High school kids are willing to work for minimum wage, receive straight cash, work when they want, and also get free golf and life lessons.

      Folks have mentioned one-man carts in previous threads….but what about the capital expenditures that would go into that for courses?

      • Golf Symantics22

        Nov 5, 2014 at 10:36 am

        Im a highschooler and would Be thrilled to be a caddy. Golf is my sole passion and being on the course is great. The payment may not bethe best but the benefits of working at a golf course are phenomenal.

    • john

      Oct 10, 2014 at 10:36 pm

      Anybody who has candied over the past 30 years knows it’s nowhere near minimum wage. The place I grew up caddying now pays +$80 per bag. That’s big money if you carry 2 bags. Long live the looper!

    • bradford

      Oct 13, 2014 at 10:22 am

      Do carts find wayward shots, repair the course, rake bunkers (properly), offer conversation, or clean your clubs? Nobody allows foursomes with four carts, not even most privates, or even courses where people own their own carts. If you’ve seen it, it was the exception, not the rule. That being said, I will bet all day a twosome with a caddie plays faster than a twosome on a cart.

      • dot dot

        Oct 14, 2014 at 1:29 pm

        Twosome with a caddie faster. I’m not buying it. lets see some supporting documentation for your argument.

  14. Sean "Shack"

    Oct 10, 2014 at 2:54 pm

    Awesome. Just awesome.

    As a professional caddie who travels between NJ during the summer and South Florida for the winter, more people need to see it this way.

    If you get to play at a place with a reputation of a good caddy yard, which is basically any course on the top 100, even to top 200 courses, more than likely you’ll wind up with a lifer, a pro jock. You’ll be surprised how far throwing him or her a c note for their work will do for your game.

    And for the high school student up in Boston, how does the Cape for the summer or Nantucket sound to make some cash? You might just fall in love with the job and the game…

    thumps up. Keep walking ladies and gents.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 3:22 pm

      Yeah you can make out fabulously well as a caddy on the Cape / Long Island / Vineyard areas in the summer.

  15. David

    Oct 10, 2014 at 1:35 pm

    I think there are a large number in the golfing public who have never played with a caddy. I myself just recently played with a caddy for the first time after almost 25 years in the game because the course required it, and to be honest it was a bit uncomfortable because it was something I had never done before. I didn’t grow up at a country club and wasn’t a caddy in my youth, so now that I’m in a position to be a member at a club and have the option of having a caddy, carrying my own bag, or riding a cart, I choose to carry my own bag 99% of the time (the other 1% I ride because that’s what my playing partners “grew up” doing and I can’t convince them to get out of their comfort zone and walk). I know I should try using a caddy, because I agree that caddy programs are certainly good for the game, but change can be hard and I think for alot of people today use of a caddy is a change.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 2:28 pm

      It often takes a caddy a round or two to figure out your game and provide valuable advice. Of course, not all caddies are good caddies and some are there just to carry the bag and not add much strategic value to your round.

  16. Jason

    Oct 10, 2014 at 1:29 pm

    I would love to have a caddie but I can’t afford to pay $25-$50 extra per round plus a tip, I quit riding around in carts to save the $15-$20 cart fees. I would love for it to be a feasible thing, I have a 15 year old son who is a 10 handicap golfer that would love to work on the golf course as a caddie and it would be a great experience but I couldn’t justify him having a job that after 4-5 hours of work you made enough for 4 gallons of gas, unless you live on the course it just wouldn’t be feasible. I would love to see the caddie come back but I don’t know how it would be affordable for the golfer and worthwhile for the caddie.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 1:39 pm

      Everything you write is true. There was have to be some serious changes in the caddy structure and how it is supported to make it available and economically feasible for “regular” courses.

    • Sean "Shack"

      Oct 10, 2014 at 2:55 pm

      Base rate at most places is more than 4 gallons of gas.

  17. bradford

    Oct 10, 2014 at 12:06 pm

    It seems pretty clear that $$ can’t work as an incentive to caddy. It’s a 4-5 hour job that doesn’t pay quite as well as some others. Carrying two bags may make it worthwhile, but again, few people are willing to pay the $60-70 for it.

    HERE’s A SOLUTION:
    Clubs provide non-monetary (ie little overhead) incentive programs to caddys. This could EASILY be done through earning free rounds of golf for carrying for a set number of rounds. Hell, I would do it. “Carry 3, Play for Free” You wanna bet me that a course offering cheap caddies doesn’t fill it’s books all day every day? I’ll take that bet.

    Caddies who show up and can’t get a loop–RANGER the course. Go out and patrol and help out in other ways. Same incentive program. Proper rangering–>faster rounds–>lower cost to you AND more profit to the course.

    • bradford

      Oct 10, 2014 at 12:19 pm

      To clarify, this would still make the course “cart” money, and you’d half to tip the caddy, but now we’re MUCH more reasonable at normal fee plus tip for caddy.

      • Mike Belkin

        Oct 10, 2014 at 1:23 pm

        I like your creative thinking, Bradford.

        • jeff

          Feb 6, 2015 at 10:52 pm

          Have it set up like waiters and waitresses pay. 2.25 an hour tip based program. 15 dollar caddy use fee to course so they dont cry about their carts being abandoned.

    • kevin

      Oct 14, 2014 at 8:11 pm

      Not in Long Island, 4 hours of work for 160 minimum for a double bag. I’d say that is a little better than minimum wage.

  18. Wally K

    Oct 10, 2014 at 11:29 am

    I love to walk every time I play and would entertain a caddy also. Please tell me where I can get a caddy for $25?! It isn’t happening no matter where you go now a days for that price.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 11:49 am

      You can’t find caddies for $25 right now. Wouldn’t it be nice….

      • jchris74

        Oct 10, 2014 at 3:12 pm

        Senior caddies at my club are $45 tops, including tip. The base rate is $20. A cart is $28. I’d rather walk and pay the differential…

    • bradford

      Oct 13, 2014 at 10:25 am

      See above, I think it would get pretty close

  19. Ryan

    Oct 10, 2014 at 10:41 am

    I wish my local courses had the opportunity to work as a caddy when I was growing up. I would’ve jumped right on it.

    I’m also happy to read of the re-increase in walkers – however anecdotal it may be. I can’t walk and push my own bag anymore because of physical issues, but with a caddy carrying, it’s possible I might get through a round. I use a cart now full-time, and hopefully we continue to see that the only ones who use carts are the people with physical issues that actually need them to play the course. Walking is a wonderful way to enjoy life and the course’s scenery.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 11:09 am

      Thanks Ryan. It’s great that carts help you stay in the game. But there is no better way to play than with a caddy as you say!

  20. gvogel

    Oct 10, 2014 at 10:35 am

    Only 1%’ers can afford caddies. As the disparity in incomes in the United States has grown tremendously in the past few decades, the rest of us struggle with equipment and green fees. Who can afford caddies?

    When the segment that used to be labelled “upper middle class” starts to grow again, caddying may become more popular. I have no idea of how to fix the economics.

    Until then, I advocate that players should play with 6, 7, 8, or 9 clubs, and carry their clubs themselves.

    • bradford

      Oct 10, 2014 at 11:49 am

      But how then will they carry a 30-pack of beer?

      • Mike Belkin

        Oct 11, 2014 at 7:23 am

        I was once caddying for some guys in a major member guest and in addition to playing mental coach, picking all clubs, reading all putts, I also was also feeding them beers the entire day from the bags.

  21. Kevin

    Oct 10, 2014 at 10:24 am

    I’ve learned so many life’s lessons in the caddy yard and on the course; what to do, what not to do, whom to admire, whom to avoid. This goes for players and caddies. I feel like I’m paid 4X: cash, exercise, free golf and by and large a positive working environment. What part-time job offers as much with as much flexibility? And caddy programs remains the most reliable feeder program into the game. Palmer, Hogan, Byron Nelson, Trevino, etc., all caddies before we knew them. It’s not cheap to take a caddy, but the joy of the walk, and the great service when provided are worth the expense. Support caddies: for them, for you and the good of the game.

  22. vjswing

    Oct 10, 2014 at 10:12 am

    I caddied during my high school years around 1981-1982, and made a grand total of $7 for each bag I carried. Nearly every player just rounded it up to $10, with the exception of a couple of a-holes.

    Economically, it still only came out to $2.50 an hour, which was less than the going minimum wage of $3.35 at the time, but it still wasn’t a bad entry-level job at all, given the perks, which included the opportunity to play the course on specific days and times.

  23. DontChase

    Oct 10, 2014 at 9:56 am

    I think the one issue ignored here is that course design completely destroyed the chances of bringing back caddies. I could think of 8-10 courses nearby that could financially sustain a caddy program. But the courses themselves were built to be completely unwalkable. There are some unfathomable drives between green/tee which just makes it a complete impossibility unless you employ some kind of shuttle system. But course design in the mid to late 90s meant that most of these courses could never employ caddies even if they wanted to.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 10:04 am

      Yes, caddy programs won’t work at cart-centric courses, no doubt.

      Many of these failing real-estate based courses will likely fail over the next decade or two in my opinion.

      • bradford

        Oct 10, 2014 at 11:53 am

        I’ve noticed a bunch of non-golfers lately that want to live on a golf course. I guess it provides security that you won’t ever have another house in your back yard. Problem is, they don’t buy into the club and it fails. You end up with a $10 muni with Mcmansions all the way through it. I can name 2 of these within 5 miles of my house.

  24. Jafar

    Oct 10, 2014 at 9:52 am

    That’s all we need is high school kids hanging out with beer drinking pot smoking adults.

    I think I see why caddying was some of the fondest memories for some of you all.

    And the 80’s were great. But you gotta let go to move forward.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 9:55 am

      Move forward to what, Jafar?

      • Jafar

        Oct 10, 2014 at 10:03 am

        A game that can sustain itself without massive debt.

        Isn’t that what you article points out, the decline of golf courses and their cost for maintenance, and caddies?

        • Mike Belkin

          Oct 10, 2014 at 11:12 am

          Yes, but I am specifically highlighting that real-estate cart-centric golf courses that were overbuilt in the 90’s are unsustainable…These courses aren’t build for caddies and will go bankrupt over the long haul in my opinion.

  25. Alex Megrey

    Oct 10, 2014 at 9:40 am

    I’m currently the caddy master and outside operations manager at a prominent club in Pittsburgh, PA. While some clubs in the area are struggling to maintain a solid Tuesday-Sunday caddy program, others are flourishing. For me, there’s nothing better than seeing our Saturday morning men’s group be predominately (roughly 92 %) walking. Our membership contain avid walkers who actually dislike to be in carts. To me, its refreshing to see that perspective in a day in age where carts dominate the golf scene. I wished that more courses would make an effort to strengthen their caddy programs, or even start a program at their courses. Its risky to try and change your consumers perspective on how the game of golf should be played, but in the instance of a caddy program, I think it’s worth it.

    PS. Loved the article Mike!

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 9:54 am

      Thank you, Alex. I look closely at ways we can grow the game and one of the biggest issue the game faces today is that the EXPERIENCE of playing golf isn’t good enough across the board.

      Issues such as pace of play, non-walkable courses, and lack of basic golf etiquette can ruin your experience on the links. And it may not be the guys or gals in your group, but the group in front of you that doesn’t know what they are doing at take 5.5 hours to play.

      Making caddying ubiquitous and properly training caddies to promote the playing of Ready Golf would make golf SO much better that people would pay slightly higher greens fees because the experience of walking a round in 3.5-4.5 hours is just that much better.

  26. Paul

    Oct 10, 2014 at 9:38 am

    Mike I totally agree with you and have been talking about this very thing as one component in growing the game. I too did some caddying when I was young 1) to earn a little spending money(better than picking berries) 2) to play a premier private club on Mondays. As a 46 year old golfer who is focused on staying heathly I would be happy to pay $25 to a caddy and have an opportunity to get to know and teach the game to a young boy or girl. If the course split the caddie fee and kept $10 and you had 4 caddies in the foursome then the golf course just made $40 for that foursome which would be more than they make on carts after maintenance. The caddie makes $15 plus tip and gets to play free golf on one designated day during the week. The PGA of America and the Tour start a massive scholarship program to encourage more kids to caddie with the hope of getting their college paid for if they get good grades and serve as good citizens!

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 9:41 am

      Now you’re talking….

    • Alex Geanakos

      Oct 10, 2014 at 10:11 am

      Paul,

      As being a caddy throughout my adolescent life and still currently looping during the summers, I see the main detractor of taking a caddy as being the cost. Your cash figures are below minimum wage, so I don’t see your hypothetical as being viable. I’m sure everyone would love to shell out only ~$25 for their bag, but virtually no caddy is willing to loop for that price. I receive $80 per bag plus a $10-20 tip, and while I understand that this paycheck is clearly in the higher percentiles, the caddy still needs to be compensated appropriately. Irrespective of caddy credentials, age, wealth of club members, etc, I feel that a caddy must receive $50 for a day’s work per bag.

  27. Evan

    Oct 10, 2014 at 9:03 am

    A caddy program needs to be just that, a program. There needs to be benefit apart from money. Realistically, a High School kid could carry two modern bags (just as a cart is shared) and make $40 for a loop, which comes out to $10 and hour for caddying. Yes, that’s not a great wage, it sure as heck beats McDonalds, though. So that’s $20 per player for caddy services. That caddy would also probably get free or discounted golf as compensation. The likelihood of that caddy creating beneficial relationships by caddying is also much greater than working in fast-food.

    I do think it should be an option at most courses. It would most definitely speed up play as a cart does not have local knowledge, can’t find lost balls, can’t pull the pin, replace divots, fix ball mark, etc. that could greatly speed up a round. For the cost sensitive and many public courses, a four sided cart could be created and one caddy/ on course assistant could accompany one group for $40-$60 total. This person could also be included as staff and their wage built into green fees. Many people will also tip, so the upside to this job would be pretty good for a young/ retired person. If a caddy went out with every group, a ranger would not be necessary.

    • Jon

      Oct 13, 2014 at 6:01 am

      Great points Evan. The caddie program should adjust to the times. Caddies do not need to increase the cost to play but help create jobs, mentoring, increase pace of play and educate all on the rules & etiquette. The cost of a cart plus tip is reasonable. As for those concerned about the added cost and choose to walk, employ a caddie when you can or want to support caddie programs. Denver, CO is actively growing caddie programs for high school kids at public courses for roughly cart fee plus tip. Entrepreneurship, Evans Scholarship, employment and social skills are just a few of the benefits. It would be great to book a caddie that could go to any course a group/player chooses.

  28. Nick

    Oct 10, 2014 at 8:51 am

    I caddied at a high end Country Club in my community when I was a kid too. Loved it. But you answered your own question at the end. It all has to do with the cost. I grew up and lived in Boston all my life. Green fees at your average public course were 40-60. Throw on an extra 50 for a caddie and its getting way too expensive. I recently moved to Florida and the average price for golf with a cart is 30-50. If you told people showing up to your average public course that the green fees are now 20-40 but you gotta get a caddie for an extra 50 their heads would explode. I know you wrote in the comments that the average green fees are 26 in the US but people arent willing to triple that to have a caddie.

    And you mention the average golfer, the beer chugging pot smoking 100 shooting guys. I dont think they need or should have a high school student out there caddying for them.

    20 years ago when I was caddying you only thought about caddies at exclusive top end country clubs and very high end prestigious public courses. I dont think that state of mind has changed. Thats still as I see them. Thats where you have the guys that dont blink at the thought of paying an extra 50 every time they play. Caddies at your standard public courses where 95% of us play would never work.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 9:10 am

      I’m not saying that the current caddy model would work at average public courses. I do, however, have a vision for a different type of caddy system that would be cheaper, involve more high school students, increase the number of golfers, and most importantly, improve the golf experience. How this would occur is beyond the scope of this article.

      • bradford

        Oct 10, 2014 at 9:45 am

        Sure, there are great ways to do it. I love caddies for the purity of it, but as far as pace of play the Ranger system works better IF you have them properly assisting (rather than just sitting in carts telling people to speed up and play faster than the people in front of them), their contribution will do more than a caddy can.

        • Mike Belkin

          Oct 10, 2014 at 10:06 am

          The overwhelming majority of rangers I see don’t do a good job of pushing pace of play. The average golfer just doesn’t understand basic readygolf etiquette. It’s not the rangers job to teach ready golf, they are there to say speed up.

          But if you don’t know how to play fast, a ranger saying “speed up!” not going to help anything and just make everybody’s day worse.

  29. ca1879

    Oct 10, 2014 at 7:39 am

    Reality check Mike. I can’t get the local kids to cut my grass for $20 an hour, and you want them to carry bags for $12/hr? Not to mention that even the guys I play with at a mid-range private club are looking to cut their golf costs, not increase them. Caddying is a fringe aspect of modern golf, at best.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 9:12 am

      Yes, you’re right. Per my comment above, I’m not saying the current caddy model will work. Trying to think outside the box here and reshape the caddy model.

      I do think local middle/high school kids would carry bags for $12/hour, however.

      • bradford

        Oct 10, 2014 at 9:47 am

        12/hr/bag—It should be commonplace for them to carry double.

      • CairnsRock

        Oct 10, 2014 at 7:18 pm

        So $12/hr for 4:15 hours = 5 x 12 = $65. Sorry, not going to happen.

        Nice to think the fuzzy images of the “good old days” but they are so gone.

        One of the exales mentioned guests which sounds like a business environment where a customer event is being expensed and cost is no object. May be attractive in that scenario, the caddie may need to be a knowledgable and entertaining character vs your average high school kid.

        Sounds elite and expensive and diametrically opposed to the needs of current trends in the golf industry.

  30. Kirby

    Oct 10, 2014 at 4:05 am

    I also caddied from the age of 11-18.I loved being able to play and fish one of the top 3 courses in my state on mondays. Best benefit.When I was 18 they hired a new pro who outlawe any caddies from playing.I never showed up again.I became a master caddy at 17 and was the personal caddy for one of the part owners of the club, who now I just recently found out is the richest man in the state of Missouri! I got paid $20 plus tips,that gentleman eould tip me $5. Looking back now I think he should of tipped me more.LOL. I also had a great experience there on one occasion, they were holding the regional I beleive U.S Open qualifier and a young guy needed a caddy and I volunteered.He had just graduated college from North Carolina and he ended up winning the event and playing at the Olympic Club. His name is Mark Wilson. If you have never used a caddy before and have a chance, do it, you will not regret it, in my opinion having used friends as caddies for different qualifiers over the years that is my favorite way to play.

  31. markb

    Oct 10, 2014 at 12:45 am

    As a former caddy and old timer I remember that by-gone era with fondness, but it will never return.

    Here’s the reason: the pro’s and/or the municipalities keep the revenues from cart rentals. They get little to nothing if you hire a looper.

  32. TinWhistle

    Oct 10, 2014 at 12:24 am

    Caddied at a great club for 10 years growing up. Platt scholarship to college. CEO of a company for 7 years. Caddying still the best job I ever had. Carts kill!

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 10, 2014 at 7:53 am

      It would be interesting to see how many former CEOs are caddies.

      • Chuck

        Oct 11, 2014 at 12:02 am

        Mike I don’t know the answer to your question, but I do know that among collegiate scholarship programs, the Evans Scholars is one of the most successful (in producing successful alums) in the nation.

  33. paul

    Oct 9, 2014 at 10:46 pm

    If the problems with golf are time, cost, and difficulty, and you want to bring back caddies to improve the game. Doesn’t that just take more from the cost category? If I have to pay double to play golf my wife and son (he’s 2 years old) would shoot me. If I told her it would help me play faster and better it wouldn’t even matter, I would still be shot for wasting money. The common golfer or hacker doesn’t need or want to afford a caddy. Caddies are for the excessively wealthy. Which is only a small portion of golfers where i live. Once again another article detailing all the problems and giving one small solution that might work a little bit at some courses.

    Yearly golf budget $2000
    Virtual golf (its cold here) $500
    Real golf $1000
    Lessons $200
    Clubs $300 (or whatever is left of budget because they make the least difference in my score)

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 10:48 pm

      Fair enough, Paul. I’m by no means suggesting that all players should be taking caddies.

      What many people don’t realize, however, is that the median US greens fee is $26. Golf ISN’T actually that expensive.

    • 2

      Oct 10, 2014 at 2:28 am

      $200 for lessons…….. pffffffft! That’s all you spend on lessons? What’s that – like 2 hours?

    • CD

      Oct 10, 2014 at 8:26 am

      This is eye-opening. There is no culture for long lessons (half hour being the average) and I’m yet to see a club that offers caddies in the UK. The UK is seeing the same decline in members and green fees and it is interesting to see what responses are different sides of the pond. Re: slow play, there just isn’t a culture for beer swigging (pot-smoking?!!? Does that actually go on in USA? Incredible) and a buggy is a rarity used by the occasional person who can barely walk and wants to be secretly laughed at. But then… It is colder, out courses are shorter and less tied to project development – you don’t see cart paths, holiday villas etc. Which might go some way towards explaining the five hour rounds that seem to come across as the norm as posted by people on this website. I’m stewing when my round takes 4 hours and that’s with a break on the 9th for a coffee and a bacon sandwich!

      If the article is suggesting caddying is a solution to the drain of players I’d suggest that is not addressing the key issue. Changing to shorter courses and ‘quicker’ mentality (ditch carts, beers etc) might help the US game maybe? Arresting the slide in this country is another question. Maybe more beers, jeans in the clubhouse and cutting down 18 holes to 12 or so for example, is needed to stay with sports that cost less and don’t take the whole day: football (soccer) tennis, running.

    • Jack

      Oct 10, 2014 at 8:29 am

      What could be great about caddies is golf courses maybe splitting the bill with golfers. The real benefits are a) better golfers and b) faster play. Faster play could mean more revenue. People tend to be less ridiculous about looking for balls with a caddy watching them. Or maybe just have one employee stationed at places where balls usually land. Basically more marshals that take the place of caddies, and can and will advise club selection and when to hit.

      • Mike Belkin

        Oct 10, 2014 at 11:16 am

        I respect your point, but disagree that marshalls could help with club selection or any of the nuanced services caddies provide.

  34. Mccance79

    Oct 9, 2014 at 10:28 pm

    I would prefer a caddie however you make a point about the increase cost in an already expensive industry. And as the cost to build a and maintain golf courses increases Golf courses need functions of profitability to maintain quality I unfortunately feel that caddies will continue to be a luxury item versus a norm

  35. Lincoln

    Oct 9, 2014 at 8:06 pm

    Former caddy here through high school and college. Not only was it a great way to make spending money through school, I also got to play free golf once a week at a top 30 course, I got to meet many great really important people, who outside of their round may be in the spotlight, but when they are on the course you get to see who they really are. It makes you appreciate people in service roles, it makes you a better tipper, and I feel it helped me in the business world now as a graduate. Not only do I feel comfortable talking to the CEO/1% types, but I also can generally establish a pretty good connection from my time as a caddy. Our course was special, and so was our program, It won’t work at all courses, but the ones that make it work can really make a great impact.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 10:24 pm

      Wow, thanks so much for the commentary, Lincoln. My experience as a caddy mirros this.

      Amazing how people who caddy have such a great appreciation for the game.

  36. Chris

    Oct 9, 2014 at 7:28 pm

    Great article. I have one thing to add: treat your caddy with respect. My wife hates golf and golfers because she caddied as a teenager. Attractive teenage female caddie + (dirty) old men = distorted view of the game people and the people who play it.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 10:26 pm

      Interesting. There were no women caddies at the place I caddied.

      It’s tough growing women’s golf in general and one might hope that caddying could play a role in it some day.

  37. Cormac

    Oct 9, 2014 at 7:22 pm

    The people I have met in the last few years caddying will be the greatest connections I ever make in my life. The opportunity for high school and college kids to form real relationships with executives from some of the biggest companies in the in the country can’t be duplicated. Not only do these relationships lead to career opportunities, but they provide many life lessons from very successful individuals. The benefits of caddying are endless and I hope young people for generations to come can reap those benefits.

  38. TR1PTIK

    Oct 9, 2014 at 5:32 pm

    I have never had a legitimate caddy to help me on the course, but I think it would be great and can certainly see how it might help speed up play. One time, my father-in-law (who doesn’t play golf) was nice enough to ride with me for 18 holes and help with getting me clubs and managing the cart. I played that round horribly, but still finished 18 holes in just under 2.5 hours! I can only imagine how much faster it might have been had he been able to offer advice that would help me get the ball in the hole a little sooner.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 10:27 pm

      There is no better golf experience than playing a morning round with your good friends and caddies. Seek it out and try it!

  39. acemandrake

    Oct 9, 2014 at 5:25 pm

    Etiquette. This what is learned from caddying. Too many players who take up the game later in life never get the chance to learn it.

    The game would be more enjoyable for all if everyone practiced conscientious etiquette.

    It’s as if it has become a lost art form.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 6:33 pm

      Yes, etiquette and how it ties into pace of play in particular are key things to learn to play properly!

      • paul

        Oct 9, 2014 at 10:33 pm

        I play half the time by myself and half with a group of friends and they all drive me crazy. Take forever to line up shots and humm and haw over club selection and miss the green 80% of the time. I have talked to them about planning ahead and thinking before arriving at the ball, they told me to screw off and they will play how and when they want. They play in 5.5 hours in carts and I play in 3.25 by myself. Its enough to make a guy quit playing with others.

        • Mike Belkin

          Oct 10, 2014 at 11:18 am

          I hear you. I used to play slowly and have picked up my pace and now play better because I think less.

        • Wally K

          Oct 11, 2014 at 8:35 am

          Playing in 3.25 hours alone? You are playing on a 7K+ yard course or walking at a snails pace. It should take you 2.5 hours.

    • Chuck

      Oct 11, 2014 at 12:08 am

      Acemandrake: “Etiquette. This what is learned from caddying. Too many players who take up the game later in life never get the chance to learn it.
      The game would be more enjoyable for all if everyone practiced conscientious etiquette.
      It’s as if it has become a lost art form.”

      Perfectly well-stated.

      I’ll add this… Anybody who is wondering about the decline in new golfers picking up the game; look no further than the decline of caddie programs. In the 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, before carts became standard, caddies were everywhere at private clubs and whole generations of knowledgeable golfers were created. Not from the well-to-do kids who were members at the clubs, but from the caddie yards.

  40. Jeremy

    Oct 9, 2014 at 3:16 pm

    Personally, I don’t prefer a caddie. Sure, at an unfamiliar course it’s nice to have someone who knows the layout, and can perhaps help me read the greens. But I only ever get them when I play at my friend’s private club, and I think the idea of paying someone $80 to carry my bag, clean my clubs, and hand me the wrong club (because they don’t know my distances) is ridiculous. I’ve got GPS or a rangefinder to give me distances, I’ve got a cart to carry my bag, and I can wipe my own club after a shot.

    I get that this article is mostly lamenting the loss of interaction between younger caddies and older, well-off adults and the opportunities that can come from it. But to me the caddy system is a relic of the older days of classism and elitism. These are traditions I’m perfectly happy to let fall by the wayside.

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 4:55 pm

      Fair point. I was trying to make the point that caddying should be looked at as a grow-the-game initiative, I guess my point didn’t come across to you. Some caddies are not properly trained, it’s too bad you haven’t had a good one (yet).

      • Jeremy

        Oct 9, 2014 at 8:49 pm

        I suppose I didn’t get the grow-the-game part of the article, even after re-reading. It sounds like you and other commenters are talking more about the life-lessons and opportunities that caddy programs afford younger people, and I completely understand that. But when I’ve used a caddy I don’t find that it speeds the game up. While they can do things like rake my bunker to speed things up, overall the round takes longer because it just feels more serious. I take more time to get things right. I talk to the caddy about is it a 5 or a 6 iron, rather than just grab a club and swing with confidence. I wait for the caddy to read both sides of the putt, rather than just leave it close and two-putt like I would anyway.

        And for what it’s worth, I’ve had a few good caddies at my friend’s course. They’re not kids though, it’s what they do for a living. They’re friendly, they know the course and how to serve their client, and the best one I’ve had even caddied on tour for a couple seasons. I could tell he was a credit to his profession. But at the end of the day I still felt like it was $80 I really didn’t need to spend.

        I guess, in this day and age, I just don’t understand the point. Perhaps companionship when you’re playing alone? Someone to bounce shot ideas off of? Someone to blame when you hit a bad shot? All of these things are just not worth the cost to me, and I can’t imagine thinking different if my income were 10X what it is. Again, I can carry my own clubs. I can look at my wrist to get a yardage. I can fix my own divots, rake my own bunkers, and clean my own clubs.

        In the end, to me, caddies are the equivalent of the bathroom attendant at a bar. Turns on the faucet, squirts you with soap, hands you a towel, and then gets paid for doing all the things you do for yourself the other 99% of the time.

        • Mike Belkin

          Oct 9, 2014 at 10:34 pm

          You make perfect sense, Jeremy. At this point in my life, I feel the same.

          That said, outside the scope of this article, I envision a new style of lower-cost caddying that proactively helps promote a ready golf style of play at public & semi-private facilities that does not exist today. It’s a longer conversation than what I intend for this forum, but my goal here was to have gentleman like yourself really explain their view on the value of modern day caddying.

        • Steve

          Oct 9, 2014 at 10:46 pm

          Mike your too nice! Jeremy you sound like a complete squid. No looper wants to watch you shoot a million anyway!

          • Robert

            Oct 10, 2014 at 12:09 pm

            Nice response Steve. That’s typical of spoads like you that can’t handle reasonable criticism. Jeremy is dead on with his comments. Caddies aren’t economical, at any reasonable rate, for 99% of the people out there. The only value they could add, for me, is local course knowledge. What is that worth? A few bucks? The only time I’ve used a caddie is at a handful of courses like Harbour Town and The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island. I’ve used both caddies and forecaddies and the forecaddie is more than enough. The only place in golf for caddies is high end private clubs and high end public courses. If I’m willing to drop $200-500 on a round of golf then I might be willing to pay extra for a caddie just to say that I did.

          • Jeremy

            Oct 10, 2014 at 3:40 pm

            Gosh, first time I’ve been called a squid. Way to form a coherent counterpoint to my well-reasoned opinions though, Steve.

            Wait, no, that’s not what I meant. Oh right; way to be what’s wrong with the internet, Steve. Name-calling and making (incorrect) assumptions about people you don’t know from behind the safety of your screen.

            FWIW, I’m an 8 handicap, and at least a couple of “loopers” (that means “caddies,” right? I don’t know, I only speak Squidish) have told me it IS fun to watch me “shoot a million” because I hit the ball a freaking mile. I wouldn’t normally brag about this because it certainly doesn’t always translate to low scores, but since you felt the need to call me out, I thought I’d contend that my million is more fun to watch than yours.

            Tell me, Steve, since I don’t see you making any other points on this topic, what’s so great about caddies? Why isn’t it a waste of money for those who don’t have the money to waste? Honestly, I’ve seen so many posts on this site about how prohibitive the cost of this game is. Seems to me the first thing on the chopping block would be the redundant golf butlers who tend to cost nearly as much as the round itself.

        • Wally K

          Oct 11, 2014 at 8:58 am

          As much as I (PGA Member) hate to say it I have to agree agree with your views.

        • kevin

          Oct 14, 2014 at 8:29 am

          Jeremy, I am a looper and I have to agree that if a person does not want to take a caddy, then they shouldn’t. There is nothing more annoying as a looper at a high end country club on Long Island than being forced to go with a group that doesn’t want caddies, but wants to walk when the club rules state that you cannot carry your own bag until 3, which they should know when they join. I get why you don’t want to take a caddy, you would get the bottom of the barrel because all of the good caddies would be out already because they would be requested, and to be perfectly honest the people that I normally loop for pay me enough to not worry if certain people don’t want a caddy like yourself. I will say this though, you may fix your ballmarks, and divots, but our greenskeeper always says that he sees the groups without caddies leave ballmarks, and not sand fill or replace, and that after 3 is when his greens look the worst. I think public course caddy programs are economically unfeasible, however, if they remain a thing for the 1%, that is fine because at the end of the day it is a good paying job if you are in the right place, just ask the 13 year old Junior caddy that made 10 grand last summer.

          • Jeremy

            Oct 14, 2014 at 2:18 pm

            Totally get your take on it Kevin. I have no doubt it’s a job that I would have enjoyed growing up. But then why not get paid to carry the rich kids’ books to school? The class dynamic is something that just rubs me the wrong way, I guess. But that turns into a much larger conversation.

            You do make a good point that, for maintenance reasons, it’s in the courses best interest to have caddies taking care of the little things in the wake of players who may not care as much about keeping the course in pristine condition.

            I think we’re in agreement that for public and municipal courses, it doesn’t make much sense. But yes, I get that there’s a market for caddies as a luxury item.

        • kevin

          Oct 14, 2014 at 4:35 pm

          Not gonna lie Jeremy, the class dynamic bothers me sometimes too when I am looping for a total hack, or a person that is just entitled when I worked my butt off growing up to get myself through school on a golf scholarship, and became a teacher. However, I am fortunate to have steady loops where the people that I go with are genuinely good people. Because of this, I have gotten to play Shinnecock, National, Friars and so on, where I otherwise would of had no chance in my life. Yes caddies are a luxury item, but in a sense they always have been, and will continue to be that way. I don’t see golf growing either, but I also don’t care because I mostly play country clubs that will maintain through the recessions now, or enjoy the fact that the local muni’s are less crowded. Golf will still always be there though.

    • JD

      Oct 10, 2014 at 6:35 pm

      I was going to write something until I came across this comment which is really spot on. Sure, I got a caddy when I went to bandon (no cart), played pebble and spyglass (cart path only), and even had to have mandatory caddies at other courses, recently shadow creek and cascata primarily for the experience but I felt I didn’t need it. For me, it wasn’t about shooting the lowest score possible, and really the relationship with the caddie (all nice guys who were not kids btw) were short and not meaningful (i’m there to play golf, not to develop a relationship with the caddie). If my club didn’t have carts and there were kids caddying, that would be different (and the club in that case should require every member to walk). I don’t see it as a big deal and there are alot of mentoring opportunities off the golf course.

  41. William

    Oct 9, 2014 at 3:05 pm

    Im a current Caddie Master in Cleveland and agree that Caddie Programs need to grow more and more in every way! I’m in the process of strengthening my program as well. It’s not easy!

    • Mike Belkin

      Oct 9, 2014 at 3:23 pm

      What is the biggest challenge for you guys, getting people to pay for caddies or just finding people to come out and caddy?

    • Brandon

      Oct 9, 2014 at 7:54 pm

      What course are you at in Cleveland?

  42. Brandon

    Oct 9, 2014 at 2:33 pm

    Caddies are one of the greatest things about playing golf. Rather older or younger caddies, they are very vital to the experience a member/guest or anyone has while playing a certain facility.

  43. Rob Rashell

    Oct 9, 2014 at 2:07 pm

    Mike,

    Great stuff here, I went to the University of Washington on an Evans Scholarship, and still maintain some of the relationships I built caddying from middle school through high school. Just something great about walking and enjoying the day.

    Rob

  44. Gary

    Oct 9, 2014 at 1:33 pm

    Caddies are essential to the pure game of golf

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

19th Hole

Vincenzi’s 2024 Valspar Championship betting preview: Elite ballstrikers to thrive at Copperhead

Published

on

The PGA TOUR will stay in Florida this week for the 2024 Valspar Championship.

The Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort is a par 71 measuring 7,340 yards and features Bermudagrass greens overseeded with POA. Infamous for its difficulty, the track will be a tough test for golfers as trouble lurks all over the place. Holes 16, 17 and 18 — also known as the “Snake Pit” — make up one of the toughest three-hole stretches in golf and should lead to a captivating finish on Sunday.

The field is comprised of 156 golfers teeing it up. The field this week is solid and is a major improvement over last year’s field that felt the impact of players skipping due to a handful of “signature events” in a short span of time. 

Past Winners at Valspar Championship

  • 2023: Taylor Moore (-10)
  • 2022: Sam Burns (-17)
  • 2021: Sam Burns (-17)
  • 2019: Paul Casey (-8)
  • 2018: Paul Casey (-10)
  • 2017: Adam Hadwin (-14)
  • 2016: Charl Schwartzel (-7)
  • 2015: Jordan Spieth (-10)

In this article and going forward, I’ll be using the Rabbit Hole by Betsperts Golf data engine to develop my custom model. If you want to build your own model or check out all of the detailed stats, you can sign up using promo code: MATTVIN for 25% off any subscription package (yearly is best value). 

Key Stats For Copperhead

1. Strokes Gained: Approach

Strokes Gained: Approach grades out as the most important statistic once again this week. Copperhead really can’t be overpowered and is a second-shot golf course.

Total SG: Approach Over Past 24 Rounds (per round)

  1. Tony Finau (+.90)
  2. Nick Taylor (+.81)
  3. Justin Thomas (+.77)
  4. Greyson Sigg (+.69)
  5. Christiaan Bezuidenhout (+.67)

2. Good Drive %

The long hitters can be a bit limited here due to the tree-lined fairways and penal rough. Playing from the fairways will be important, but laying back too far will cause some difficult approaches with firm greens that may not hold shots from long irons.

Golfers who have a good balance of distance and accuracy have the best chance this week.

Good Drive % Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Brice Garnett (+91.3%) 
  2. Zach Johnson (+91.1%)
  3. Sam Ryder (+90.5%)
  4. Ryan Moore (+90.4%)
  5. Aaron Rai (+89.7%)

3. Strokes Gained: Ball Striking

Adding ball-striking puts even more of a premium on tee-to-green prowess in the statistical model this week. Golfers who rank highly in ball-striking are in total control of the golf ball which is exceedingly important at Copperhead.

SG: Ball Striking Over Past 24 Rounds:

  1. Xander Schauffele (+1.32)
  2. Keith Mitchell (+1.29)
  3. Tony Finau (+1.24)
  4. Cameron Young (+1.17) 
  5. Doug Ghim (+.95)

4. Bogey Avoidance

With the conditions likely to be difficult, avoiding bogeys will be crucial this week. In a challenging event like the Valspar, oftentimes the golfer who is best at avoiding mistakes ends up on top.

Gritty golfers who can grind out difficult pars have a much better chance in an event like this than a low-scoring birdie-fest.

Bogey Avoidance Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Brice Garnett (+9.0)
  2. Xander Schauffele (+9.3)
  3. Austin Cook (+9.7) 
  4. Chesson Hadley (+10.0)
  5. Greyson Sigg (+10.2)

5. Strokes Gained: Total in Difficult Conditions

Conditions will be tough this week at Copperhead. I am looking for golfers who can rise to the occasion if the course plays as difficult as it has in the past.

Strokes Gained: Total in Difficult Conditions Over Past 24 rounds

  1. Xander Schauffele (+1,71) 
  2. Min Woo Lee (+1.39)
  3. Cameron Young (+1.27)
  4. Jordan Spieth (+1.08)
  5. Justin Suh (+.94)

6. Course History

That statistic will tell us which players have played well at Copperhead in the past.

Course History Over Past 24 rounds

  1. Patrick Cantlay (+3.75) 
  2. Sam Burns (+2.49)
  3. Davis Riley (+2.33)
  4. Matt NeSmith (+2.22)
  5. Jordan Spieth (+2.04)

The Valspar Championship Model Rankings

Below, I’ve compiled overall model rankings using a combination of the five key statistical categories previously discussed — SG: Approach (27%), Good Drive % (15%), SG: BS (20%), Bogeys Avoided (13%), Course History (13%) Strokes Gained: Total in Difficult Conditions (12%).

  1. Xander Schauffele
  2. Doug Ghim
  3. Victor Perez
  4. Greyson Sigg
  5. Ryan Moore
  6. Tony Finau
  7. Justin Thomas
  8. Sam Ryder
  9. Sam Burns
  10. Lucas Glover

2024 Valspar Championship Picks

Justin Thomas +1400 (DraftKings)

Justin Thomas will be disappointed with his finish at last week’s PLAYERS Championship, as the past champion missed the cut despite being in some decent form heading into the event. Despite the missed cut, JT hit the ball really well. In his two rounds, the two-time major champion led the field in Strokes Gained: Approach per round.

Thomas has been up and down this season. He’s missed the cut in two “signature events” but also has finishes of T12 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, T12 at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, T6 at the Pebble Beach AT&T Pro-Am and T3 at the American Express. In his past 24 rounds, he ranks 3rd in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach and 6th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking in the field.

Thomas loves Copperhead. In his last three tries at the course, he’s finished T13, T3 and T10. Thomas would have loved to get a win at a big event early in the season, but avoidable mistakes and a balky putter have cost him dearly. I believe a trip to a course he loves in a field he should be able to capitalize on is the right recipe for JT to right the ship.

Christiaan Bezuidenhout +6000 (FanDuel)

Christiaan Bezuidenhout is playing spectacular golf in the 2024 season. He finished 2nd at the American Express, T20 at Pebble Beach and T24 at the Genesis Invitational before finishing T13 at last week’s PLAYERS Championship.

In his past 24 rounds, the South African ranks 3rd in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach and 26th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking. Bezuidenhout managed to work his way around TPC Sawgrass last week with minimal damage. He only made five bogeys in the entire week, which is a great sign heading into a difficult Copperhead this week.

Bezuidenhout is winless in his PGA Tour career, but certainly has the talent to win on Tour. His recent iron play tells me that this week could be a breakthrough for the 35-year-old who has eyes on the President’s Cup.

Doug Ghim +8000 (FanDuel)

Doug Ghim has finished in the top-16 of his past five starts. Most recently, Ghim finished T16 at The PLAYERS Championship in a loaded field.

In his past 24 rounds, Ghim ranks 8th in Strokes Gained: Approach and 5th in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking. In terms of his fit for Copperhead, the 27-year-old ranks 12th in Bogey Avoidance and 7th in Strokes Gained: Total in Difficult Conditions, making him a great fit for the course.

Ghim has yet to win on Tour, but at one point he was the top ranked Amateur golfer in the world and played in the 2017 Arnold Palmer Cup and 2017 Walker Cup. He then won the Ben Hogan award for the best male college golfer in 2018. He certainly has the talent, and there are signals aplenty that his talent in ready to take him to the winner’s circle on the PGA Tour.

Sepp Straka +8000 (BetRivers)

Sepp Straka is a player who’s shown he has the type of game that can translate to a difficult Florida golf course. The former Presidents Cup participant won the 2022 Honda Classic in tough conditions and should thrive with a similar test at Copperhead.

It’s been a slow 2024 for Straka, but his performance last week at the PLAYERS Championship surely provides some optimism. He gained 5.4 strokes on approach as well as 1.88 strokes off the tee. The tee-to-green game Straka showed on a course with plenty of danger demonstrates that he can stay in control of his golf ball this week.

It’s possible that the strong performance last week was an outlier, but I’m willing to bet on a proven winner in a weaker field at a great number.

Victor Perez +12000 (FanDuel)

Victor Perez is no stranger to success in professional golf. The Frenchman has three DP World Tour wins including a Rolex Series event. He won the 2019 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, as well as the 2023 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, which are some big events.

Perez earned his PGA Tour card this season and enters the week playing some fantastic golf. He finished in a tie for 16th in Florida at the Cognizant Classic and then tied for third in his most recent start at the Puerto Rico Open.

In his past 24 rounds in the field, Perez ranks 11th in Strokes Gained: Approach, 1oth in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking, 6th in Good Drive % and 15th in Bogey Avoidance.

Perez comes in as a perfect fit for Copperhead and offers serious value at triple-digit odds.

Your Reaction?
  • 4
  • LEGIT0
  • WOW0
  • LOL0
  • IDHT0
  • FLOP1
  • OB1
  • SHANK2

Continue Reading

Opinion & Analysis

Myrtle Beach, Explored: February in South Carolina

Published

on

As I gain in experience and age, and familiarity breeds neither contempt nor disdain, I understand why people return to a place. A destination like Myrtle Beach offers a sizable supply and diversity of restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops that are predicated on the tenets of the service industry. Greet your customers with a smile and a kind word, and they will find comfort and assurance. Provide them with a memorable experience and they will suggest your place of business to others.

My first tour of Myrtle Beach took place in the mid-1980s, and consisted of one course: Gator Hole. I don’t remember much from that day, and since Gator Hole closed a decade later, I cannot revisit it to recollect what I’d lost. Since then, I’ve come to the Grand Strand a few times, and been fortunate to never place a course more than once. I’ve seen the Strantz courses to the south and dipped my toe in the North Carolina courses of Calabash. I’ve been to many in the middle, including Dunes, Pine Lakes, Grande Dunes among them.

2024 brought a quartet of new courses, including two at the Barefoot Resort. I’d heard about the North Myrtle Beach four-pack of courses that highlight the Barefoot property, including layouts from Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Davis Love III, and Greg Norman. I had the opportunity to play and shoot the Dye and Fazio tracks, which means that I’ll have to return to see the other two. Sandwiched between them were the TPC-Myrtle Beach course, also from Tom Fazio, and the Pawley’s Plantation trace, by the hand of Jack Nicklaus. I anticipated a bit of the heroic, and bit of the strategic, and plenty of eye candy. None of those architects would ever be considered a minimalist, so there would be plenty of in-play and out-of-play bunkers and mounds to tantalize the senses.

My nephew arrived a few days early, to screen a few more courses. As a result, you the reader will have an extra quarter of mini-reviews, bringing the total of courses in this piece to eight. It was inconceivable that CJR would play four courses that I had never played nor photographed, but that was the case. His words appear at the end of this piece. We hope that you enjoy the tour.

Main Feature: Two Barefoots, a TPC, and Pawley’s Plantation

Barefoot Dye

What Paul “Pete” Dye brought back from his trips to the United Kingdom, hearkened back to what C.B. MacDonal did, some 65 years prior. There is a way of finding bunkers and fairways, and even green sites, that does not require major industrial work. The Dye course at Barefoot Resorts takes you on a journey over the rumpled terrain of distant places. If there’s one element missing, it’s the creased and turbulent fairways, so often found in England and Ireland. The one tenet of playing a Dye course, is to always aim away from temptation, from where your eyes draw you. Find the safe side of the target, and you’ll probably find your ball. It then stands that you will have a shot for your next attempt. Cut the corner, and you might have need to reload. The Barefoot course begins gently, in terms of distance, but challenges with visual deception. After two brief 4s and a 3, the real work begins. The course is exposed enough, to allow the coastal winds to dance along the fairways. Be ready to keep the ball low and take an extra club or two.

TPC-Myrtle Beach

If memory serves, TPCMB is my first trek around a TPC-branded course. It had all the trappings of a tour course, from the welcome, through the clubhouse, to the practice facilities and, of course, the course. TPC-Myrtle Beach is a Tom Fazio design, and if you never visit Augusta National, you’ll now have an idea of what it is like. You play Augusta’s 16th hole twice at TPCMB, and you enjoy it both times. Fazio really likes the pond-left, green-angle-around par three hole, and his two iterations of it are memorable.

You’ll also see those Augusta bunkers, the ones with the manicured edges that drop into a modestly-circular form. What distinguishes these sand pits is the manner in which they rise from the surrounding ground. They are unique in that they don’t resemble the geometric bunkering of a Seth Raynor, nor the organic pits found in origin courses. They are built, make no mistake, and recovery from them is manageable for all levels of bunker wizardry.

Barefoot Fazio

If you have the opportunity to play the two Tom Fazio courses back to back, you’ll notice a marked difference in styling. Let me digress for a moment, then circle back with an explanation. It was written that the NLE World Woods course designed by Fazio, Pine Barrens, was an homage to Pine Valley, the legendary, New Jersey club where Fazio is both a member and the architect on retainer. The Pine Barrens course was plowed under in 2022, so the homage no longer exists. At least, I didn’t think that it existed, until I played his Barefoot Resort course in North Myrtle Beach.

Pine Valley might be described as an aesthetic of scrub and sand. There are mighty, forced carries to travers, along with sempiternal, sandy lairs to avoid. Barefoot Fazio is quite similar. If you’re not faced with a forced carry, you’ll certainly contend with a fairway border or greenside necklace of sand. When you reach the 13th tee, you’ll face a drive into a fairway, and you might see a distant green, with a notable absence: flagstick. The 13th is the icing on the homage cake, a callout of the 8th hole at Pine Valley. Numero Ocho at the OG has two greens, side by side, and they change the manner in which the hole plays (so they say.) At Barefoot Fazio, the right-side green is a traditional approach, with an unimpeded run of fairway to putting surface. The left-side green (the one that I was fortunate to play) demands a pitch shot over a wasteland. It’s a fitting tribute for the rest of us to play.

Be certain to parrot the starter, Leon’s, advice, and play up a deck of tees. Barefoot Fazio offers five par-three holes, so the fours and fives play that much longer. Remember, too, that you are on vacation. Why not treat yourself to some birdie looks?

Pawley’s Plantation

The Jack Nicklaus course at Pawley’s Plantation emerged from a period of hibernation in 2024. The greens were torn up and their original contours were restored. Work was overseen by Troy Vincent, a member of the Nicklaus Architecture team. In addition, the putting corridors were reseeded with a hardier, dwarf bermuda that has experienced great success, all along the Grand Strand that is Myrtle Beach.

My visit allowed me to see the inward half first, and I understand why the resort wishes to conclude your day on those holes. The front nine of Pawley’s Plantation works its way through familiar, low country trees and wetlands. The back nine begins in similar fashion, then makes its way east, toward the marsh that separates mainland from Pawley’s Island. Recalling the powerful sun of that Wednesday morning, any round beginning on the second nine would face collateral damage from the warming star. Much better to hit holes 11 to close when the sun is higher in the sky.

The marshland holes (12 through 17) are spectacular in their raw, unprotected nature. The winds off the Atlantic are unrelenting and unforgiving, and the twin, par-three holes will remain in your memory banks for time’s march. In typical Golden Bear fashion, a majority of his putting targets are smallish in nature, reflecting his appreciation for accurate approach shots. Be sure to find the forgiving side of each green, and err to that portion. You’ll be grateful.

Bonus Coverage: Myrtlewood, Beechwood, Arrowhead, and King’s North

Arrowhead (Raymond Floyd and Tom Jackson)

A course built in the middle of a community, water threatens on most every hole. The Cypress 9 provides a few holes forcing a carried drive then challenge you with water surrounding the green. On Waterway, a drivable 2nd hole will tempt most, so make sure the group ahead has cleared the green.

Myrtlewood (Edmund Alt and Arthur Hills) and Beechwood (Gene Hamm)

A middle of the winter New Englander’s paradise. Wide open fairways, zero blind shots and light rough allow for shaking off the rust and plenty of forgiveness. A plethora of dog legs cause one to be cautious with every tee shot. Won’t break the bank nor the scorecard.

King’s North @ Myrtle Beach National (Arnold Palmer)

A signature Arnold Palmer course, waste areas, island greens and daring tee shots. Highlighted by the 4th hole Par 5 Gambler hole, if you can hit the smaller fairway on the left you are rewarded with a short approach to get to the green in 2. The back 9 is highlighted by an island green par 3 and a finisher with over 40 bunkers spread throughout. A challenge for any golfer.
Your Reaction?
  • 2
  • LEGIT0
  • WOW0
  • LOL0
  • IDHT0
  • FLOP1
  • OB0
  • SHANK1

Continue Reading

19th Hole

Vincenzi’s 2024 Players Championship betting preview: Pete Dye specialists ready to pass tough TPC Sawgrass test

Published

on

The PGA Tour heads to TPC Sawgrass to play in one of the most prestigious and important events of the season: THE PLAYERS Championship. Often referred to as the fifth major, the importance of a PLAYERS victory to the legacy of a golfer can’t be overlooked.

TPC Sawgrass is a par-72 measuring 7,245 yards and featuring Bermudagrass greens. Golfers must be patient in attacking this Pete Dye course.

With trouble lurking at every turn, the strokes can add up quickly. With a par-5 16th that is a true risk-reward hole and the famous par-3 17th island green, the only safe bet at TPC Sawgrass is a bet on an exciting finish.

THE PLAYERS Championship field is often referred to as the strongest field of the year — and with good reason. There are 144 in the field, including 43 of the world’s top 50 players in the OWGR. Tiger Woods will not be playing in the event.

THE PLAYERS is an exceptionally volatile event that has never seen a back-to-back winner.

Past Winners at TPC Sawgrass

  • 2023: Scottie Scheffler (-17)
  • 2022: Cameron Smith (-13)
  • 2021: Justin Thomas (-14)
  • 2019: Rory McIlroy (-16)
  • 2018: Webb Simpson (-18)
  • 2017: Si-Woo Kim (-10)
  • 2016: Jason Day (-15)
  • 2015: Rickie Fowler (-12)In this article and going forward, I’ll be using the Rabbit Hole by Betsperts Golf data engine to develop my custom model. If you want to build your own model or check out all of the detailed stats, you can sign up using promo code: MATTVIN for 25% off any subscription package (yearly is best value). 

5 Key Stats for TPC Sawgrass

Let’s take a look at five metrics key for TPC Sawgrass to determine which golfers boast top marks in each category over their last 24 rounds.

1. Strokes Gained: Approach

Strokes Gained: Approach has historically been far and away the most important and predictive stat at THE PLAYERS Championship. With water everywhere, golfers can’t afford to be wild with their iron shots. Not only is it essential to avoid the water, but it will also be as important to go after pins and make birdies because scores can get relatively low.

Total SG: Approach Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Tom Hoge (+1.37) 
  2. Scottie Scheffler (+1.20)
  3. Tony Finau (+0.99)
  4. Jake Knapp (+0.83)
  5. Shane Lowry (+0.80)

2. Total Driving

This statistic is perfect for TPC Sawgrass. Historically, driving distance hasn’t been a major factor, but since the date switch to March, it’s a bit more significant. During this time of year, the ball won’t carry quite as far, and the runout is also shorter.

Driving accuracy is also crucial due to all of the trouble golfers can get into off of the tee. Therefore, players who are gaining on the field with Total Driving will put themselves in an ideal spot this week.

Total Driving Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Rory McIlroy (22)
  2. Akshay Bhatia (25)
  3. Keith Mitchell (25) 
  4. Adam Hadwin (34)
  5. Sam Burns (+39)

3. Strokes Gained: Total at Pete Dye Designs

TPC Sawgrass may be Pete Dye’s most famous design, and for good reason. The course features Dye’s typical shaved runoff areas and tricky green complexes.  Pete Dye specialists love TPC Sawgrass and should have a major advantage this week.

SG: Total (Pete Dye) per round over past 36 rounds:

  1. Patrick Cantlay (+2.02)
  2. Scottie Scheffler (+1.90)
  3. Min Woo Lee (+1.77) 
  4. Sungjae Im (+1.72)
  5. Brian Harman (+1.62) 

4. Strokes Gained: Ball Striking

Prototypical ball-strikers have dominated TPC Sawgrass. With past winners like Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Webb Simpson, Rory McIlroy and Justin Thomas, it’s evident that golfers must be striking it pure to contend at THE PLAYERS.

SG: Ball Striking Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Scottie Scheffler (+2.02)
  2. Tony Finau (+1.51)
  3. Tom Hoge (+1.48)
  4. Keith Mitchell (+1.38)
  5. Will Zalatoris (+1.18)

5. Par 5 Average

Par-5 average is extremely important at TPC Sawgrass. With all four of the Par-5s under 575 yards, and three of them under 540 yards, a good amount of the scoring needs to come from these holes collectively.

Par 5 Average Over Past 24 Rounds

  1. Scottie Schefler (+4.31)
  2. Erik Van Rooyen (+4.35)
  3. Doug Ghim (+4.34)
  4. Wyndham Clark (+4.34)
  5. Matt Fitzpatrick (+4.31)

6. Strokes Gained: Florida

We’ve used this statistic over the past few weeks, and I’d like to incorporate some players who do well in Florida into this week’s model as well. 

Strokes Gained: Florida over past 30 rounds:

  1. Scottie Schefler (+2.43)
  2. Erik Van Rooyen (+1.78)
  3. Doug Ghim (+1.78)
  4. Wyndham Clark (+1.73)
  5. Matt Fitzpatrick (+1.69)

7. Strokes Gained: Total on Courses with High Water Danger

With water everywhere at TPC Sawgrass, the blow-up potential is high. It can’t hurt to factor in some players who’ve avoided the “eject” button most often in the past. 

Strokes Gained: Total on Courses with High Water Danger over past 30 rounds:

  1. Scottie Schefler (+2.08)
  2. Rory McIlroy (+1.82)
  3. Tony Finau (+1.62)
  4. Patrick Cantlay (+1.51)
  5. Will Zalatoris (+1.49)

THE PLAYERS Championship Model Rankings

Below, I’ve compiled overall model rankings using a combination of the five key statistical categories previously discussed — SG: Approach (25%), Total Driving (20%), SG: Total Pete Dye (14%), SG: Ball-striking (15%) SG: Par 5 (8%), SG: Florida (10%) and SG: High Water (8%).

  1. Scottie Scheffler 
  2. Shane Lowry 
  3. Tony Finau 
  4. Corey Conners
  5. Keith Mitchell
  6. Justin Thomas
  7. Will Zalatoris
  8. Xander Schauffele
  9. Cameron Young
  10. Doug Ghim
  11. Sam Burns 
  12. Chris Kirk
  13. Collin Morikawa
  14. Si Woo Kim
  15. Wyndham Clark

2024 THE PLAYERS Championship Picks

(All odds at the time of writing)

Patrick Cantlay +2500 (DraftKings):

Patrick Cantlay is winless since the 2022 BMW Championship but is undoubtedly one of the most talented players on the PGA Tour. Since the win at Wilmington Country Club, the 31-year-old has twelve top-10 finishes on Tour and is starting to round into form for the 2024 season.

Cantlay has done well in the most recent “signature” events this season, finishing 4th at Riviera for the Genesis Invitational and 12th at Bay Hill for the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The former Tour Championship winner resides in Jupiter, Florida and has played some good golf in the state, including finishing in a tie for 4th at the 2023 Arnold Palmer Invitational. His history at TPC Sawgrass has been up and down, but his best career start at The PLAYERS came last year when he finished in a tie for 19th.

Cantlay absolutely loves Pete Dye designed courses and ranks 1st in the field in Strokes Gained: Total on Dye tracks in his past 36 rounds. In recent years, he’s been excellent at both the RBC Heritage and the Travelers Championship. TPC Sawgrass is a place where players will have to be dialed in with their irons and distance off the tee won’t be quite as important. In his past 24, rounds, Cantlay ranks in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach.

Despite being winless in recent years, I still believe Cantlay is capable of winning big tournaments. As one of the only United States players to bring their best game to Marco Simone for the Ryder Cup, I have conviction that the former top amateur in the world can deliver when stakes are high.

Will Zalatoris +3000 (FanDuel):

In order to win at TPC Sawgrass, players will need to be in total control of their golf ball. At the moment, Will Zalatoris is hitting it as well as almost anyone and finally has the putter cooperating with his new switch to the broomstick style.

Zalatoris is coming off back-to-back starts where he absolutely striped the ball. He finished 2nd at the Genesis Invitational and 4th at the Arnold Palmer Invitational where his statistics were eye opening. For the week at Bay Hill, Zal gained 5.0 strokes on approach and 5.44 strokes off the tee.

Throughout the early part of his career, Zalatoris has established himself by playing his best golf in the strongest fields with the most difficult conditions. A tough test will allow him to separate himself this week and breakthrough for a PLAYERS Championship victory.

Shane Lowry +4000 (DraftKings):

History has shown us that players need to be in good form to win the PLAYERS Championship and it’s hard to find anyone not named Scottie Scheffler who’s in better form that Shane Lowry at the moment. He finished T4 at the Cognizant Classic followed by a solo third place finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

The fact that the Irishman contended at Bay Hill is a great sign considering he’s really struggled there throughout his career. He will now head to a different style of course in Florida where he’s had a good deal of success. He finished 8th at TPC Sawgrass in 2021 and 13th in 2022. 

Lowry ranks 6th in the field in approach in his past 24 rounds, 7th in Strokes Gained: Total at Pete Dye designed courses in his last 30 rounds, 8th in par 5 scoring this season, and 4th in Strokes Gained: Total in Florida over his past 36 rounds.

Lowry is a player who’s capable of winning big events. He’s a major champion and won another premier event at Wentworth as well as a WGC at Firestone. He’s also a form player, when he wins it’s typically when he’s contended in recent starts. He’s been terrific thus far in Florida and he should get into contention once again this week.

Brian Harman +8000 (DraftKings):

(Note: Since writing this Harman’s odds have plummeted to 50-1. I would not advise betting the 50).

Brian Harman showed us last season that if the course isn’t extremely long, he has the accuracy both off the tee and with his irons to compete with anyone in the world. Last week at Bay Hill and was third in the field in Strokes Gained: Approach, gaining 5.54 strokes on the field in the category.

In addition to the strong iron play, Harman also gained strokes off the tee in three of four rounds. He’s also had success at Pete Dye tracks recently. He finished 2nd at last year’s Travelers Championship and 7th at the RBC Heritage.

It would be a magnificent feat for Harman to win both the Open Championship and PLAYERS in a short time frame, but the reality is the PGA Tour isn’t quite as strong as it once was. Harman is a player who shows up for the biggest events and his odds seem way too long for his recent track record.

Tony Finau +6500 (FanDuel):

A few weeks ago, at the Genesis Invitational, I bet Hideki Matsuyama because I believed it to be a “bet the number” play at 80-1. I feel similarly about Finau this week. While he’s not having the season many people expected of him, he is playing better than these odds would indicate.

This season, Tony has a tied for 6th place finish at Torrey Pines, a tied for 19th at Riviera and tied for 13th at the Mexico Open. He’s also hitting the ball extremely well. In the field in his past 24 rounds, he ranks 3rd in Strokes Gained: Approach, 3rd in Strokes Gained: Ball Striking, 6th in Par 5 average and 15th in Total Driving.

Finau’s problem has been with the putter, which has been undeniably horrific. However, this week he will see a putting surface similar to the POA at TPC Scottsdale and PGA West, which he’s had a great deal of success on. It’s worth taking a stab at this price to see if he can have a mediocre week with the flat stick.

Sungjae Im +9000 (FanDuel):

It’s been a lackluster eighteen months for Sungjae, who once appeared to be a certain star. While his ceiling is absolutely still there, it’s been a while since we’ve seen Im play the type of golf expected of a player with his talent.

Despite the obvious concerns, the South Korean showed glimpses of a return to form last week at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. He tied for 18th place and gained strokes off the tee, on approach, around the green and with the putter. When at his best, Im is a perfect course fit for TPC Sawgrass. He has remarkable precision off the tee, can get dialed in with his irons on shorter courses and can get up and down with the best players on Tour.

This number has gotten to the point where I feel comfortable taking a shot on it.

Billy Horschel +20000 (FanDuel):

Billy Horschel is a great fit on paper for TPC Sawgrass. He can get dialed in with his irons and his lack of distance off the tee won’t be a major detriment at the course. “Bermuda Billy” does his best work putting on Bermudagrass greens and he appears to be rounding into form just in time to compete at The PLAYERS.

In his most recent start, Billy finished in a tie for 9th at the Cognizant Classic and hit the ball extremely well. The former Florida Gator gained 3.32 strokes on approach and 2.04 strokes off the tee. If Horschel brings that type of ball striking to TPC Sawgrass, he has the type of putter who can win a golf tournament.

Horschel has been great on Pete Dye designed courses, with four of his seven career PGA Tour wins coming on Dye tracks.

In a season that has seen multiple long shots win big events, the 37-year-old is worth a stab considering his knack for playing in Florida and winning big events.

 

Your Reaction?
  • 30
  • LEGIT10
  • WOW4
  • LOL2
  • IDHT0
  • FLOP3
  • OB1
  • SHANK6

Continue Reading

WITB

Facebook

Trending