Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Singh shocked over deer antler 'drug' claims

Vijay Singh

(CNN) -- Former World No.1 Vijay Singh says he has been left '"shocked" and "angry" after the revelation that he used a spray which may have contained a banned substance under the PGA TOUR Anti-Doping Policy.

The PGA Tour said Wednesday that it was investigating claims that Singh had used a banned drug contained in deer antler spray.

The 49-year-old Fijian star told Sports Illustrated that he used the spray "every couple of hours..every day."

He is quoted: "I'm looking forward to some change in my body.

"It's really hard to feel the difference if you're only doing it for a couple of months."

But the spray is reported to be contain a substance called IGF-1, which is a "natural, anabolic hormone that stimulates muscle growth."

IGF-1 is banned by several professional sports organizations, including the PGA Tour.

Statement

In a statement issued through the PGA Wednesday, Singh said he had no idea that the spray may contain a banned substance.

"While I have used deer antler spray, at no time was I aware that it may contain a substance that is banned under the PGA Tour Anti-Doping Policy," said the statement.

"In fact, when I first received the product, I reviewed the list of ingredients and did not see any prohibited substances.

"I am absolutely shocked that deer antler spray may contain a banned substance and am angry that I have put myself in this position.

"I have been in contact with the PGA Tour and am cooperating fully with their review of this matter. I will not be commenting further at this time."

Singh upstages McIlroy and Woods

Two years ago, 1999 British Open champion Mark Calcavecchia was advised by golf officials to stop using the spray.

It is manufactured by an Alabama-based company Sports With Alternatives to Steroids (SWATS), who have links to other major sports in the United States.

Deer velvet

CNN Senior Managing Editor of Medical News Tim Langmaid says the spray, which is also known as deer velvet, is purportedly used to boost strength and endurance, while it also improves immune system function.

He said: "It contains small amounts of deer IGF-1, or Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, which mediates the level of HGH in the body.

"It comes from the deer velvet that covers the growing bone and cartilage that develop into deer antlers.

"It's the IGF-1 that is on WADA's banned substance list. Excessive use in humans can lead to metabolic dysfunction, including glucose intolerance."

The spray is derived from deer harvested in New Zealand.

The Sports Illustrated article claimed Singh paid $9,000 for the product.

A PGA spokesman told CNN that the "matter regarding Mr Singh is pending review" but could not give an indication of how long the investigation would take.

"There is no timetable at the moment," he added

The 49-year-old Singh is scheduled to play in the Phoenix Open in Arizona starting Thursday.

Controversy

Singh's illustrious career has in the past been dogged by controversies, not least back in 1985 when he was banned from the Asian Tour over allegations he changed his scorecard to his advantage during a round.

He shrugged off that setback to gradually make his mark, first on the European Tour, then over in the United States, where he has campaigned on the PGA Tour since 1993.

He has won three majors and was the money list winner in 2003, relegating Tiger Woods to second spot.

But the same year, Singh's veiled criticism of women's No.1 Annika Sorenstam for competing against the men in the Colonial tournament led to negative publicity.

However, in 2004 Singh took the No.1 spot in the rankings from Woods and won the PGA Championship, his final major.

Despite his advancing years, he qualifies for the Champions Tour next month, Singh has continued to compete at the highest level of golf and is regularly in the upper reaches of the leader board in PGA events.


Via: Singh shocked over deer antler 'drug' claims

Monday, January 28, 2013

Woods wins 75th PGA title at Torrey Pines

Woods hits off the 10th tee during the final round at the Farmers Insurance Open on Monday.

(CNN) -- Tiger Woods won his 75th PGA Tour title at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines on Monday to ensure his 2013 season started in fine fashion.

After fog had taken the California tournament into a fourth day, Woods finished 14-under to win the $6.1 million event by four shots.

Starting the day six strokes clear, the World No. 2 carded a level-par 72 in his final round to finish ahead of defending champion Brandt Snedeker and Josh Teater, who were both 10-under.

Woods broke the PGA record for the number of wins at a single course as he lifted his eighth title at the venue, with seven tournament triumphs added to the U.S. Open crown he so memorably won in 2008.

Combined with his seven wins apiece at both Firestone Country Club and Bay Hill Club and Lodge, 22 of Woods' 75 career wins have now come at just three courses.

This represents a significant 29 percent of the 37-year-old's tally of PGA Tour wins.

Read: McIlroy and Woods crash out in Abu Dhabi

"This is a nice way to start the year," Woods said after the victory. "My expectations for the year are the same -- to go out there and win every tournament I play in.

"Setting my sights on being No.1 comes as a result of winning golf tournaments and being consistent.

"That's how I got there and in order for me to get back there, that's what I have to do -- and this is a good start."

Monday's victory took the 14-time major winner to within seven victories of Sam Snead's record tally of 82 victories.

Resuming play on Monday with 11 holes remaining, Woods had to wait until the 13th hole for his first birdie of the day but his game then dropped off as a slow finish prompted some loose strokes.

"I lost a little bit of patience out there and unfortunately it affected my play a little bit," added Woods.

Two bogeys and a double bogey between the 14th and the 17th took some of the shine off his victory and allowed Snedeker and Teater to narrow the gap.


Via: Woods wins 75th PGA title at Torrey Pines

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Eagle earns Wood long-awaited win

Chris Wood celebrates after holing an eagle putt on the final hole to win the Qatar Masters in Doha on Saturday.

(CNN) -- When Chris Wood turned professional in 2009, he came agonizingly close to winning a major title in his rookie season -- but it's been tough going since then.

The English golfer finished tied for third at that year's British Open after missing out on victory at his final hole, having been fifth the previous season as the leading amateur.

Now he has finally tasted success on the European Tour, landing a spectacular eagle on the last hole to claim the Qatar Masters on Saturday.

He headed off veteran Sergio Garcia and South African George Coetzee by one stroke to earn the 310,917 ($418,000) first prize, thanks to a 202-yard six iron over the water that finished 10 feet from the hole.

"There's an enormous weight lifted off my shoulders today. I feel like I can go on and win more," said Wood, whose only other professional win came at the OneAsia Tour-sanctioned Thailand Open last year.

"I knew it was going to be hard no matter how I played -- winning on The European Tour is not easy.

"I've been knocking on the door in previous times and it's not happened. To get it today, to get my first win, it's such an honor. I'm so pleased."

The 25-year-old had led by three shots going into the final round, but then dropped two off the pace after the opening nine holes to bring back memories of losing tournaments in 2010 and 2011 on the last day.

"I've seen a few mates picking up trophies and I've been waiting patiently for my time. I felt like I was due to win for a couple of years," said Wood, who will qualify for next month's WGC-Accenture Match Play in Arizona after moving from 142nd in the rankings to inside the top 64.

He closed with three-under-par 69 to deny Coetzee his first European Tour success.

The 26-year-old stormed home with a 65, firing an eagle and six birdies to record his 21st top-10 finish.

He finished tied with Garcia on 17-under 271, with the Spaniard -- seeking his 11th European Tour win and first since 2011 -- closing on 66.

"Chris hit a great drive and a great six iron and then a wonderful putt," said Garcia, who would have returned to the world's top 10 for the first time in more than three years if he had won.

"Obviously he's been trying for a while and he deserves it, and after the start he had today, it's quite impressive for him to come back the way he did and win. I gave it my best effort."

World No. 4 Justin Rose, the highest-ranked player in the field and runner-up in Abu Dhabi last weekend, tied for 16th.

Meanwhile, the third round of the PGA Tour's Farmers Insurance Open was delayed by fog on Saturday.

Only a handful of players made it out onto the course before play was suspended, with halfway leader Tiger Woods holding a two-shot advantage after 36 holes as he and most of the field waited for their new tee-off times.


Via: Eagle earns Wood long-awaited win

Friday, January 25, 2013

Woods charges into lead with 65

Tiger Woods signals to the gallery after making an eagle putt on the 18th hole at Torrey Pines.

(CNN) -- Tiger Woods kick started his 2013 season on his favorite golf course with a seven-under 65 Friday at Torrey Pines lifting him to the top of the leader board in the Farmers Insurance Open.

Defying cold and wet conditions at La Jolla in California, the World No.2 carded a halfway total of 11-under 133 at the PGA Tour event.

It left him two clear of fellow American Billy Horschel, who battled to a 69 on the more difficult South Course.

Woods has won the tournament at the same venue six times and also famously claimed the 2008 U.S. Open, despite being handicapped by injury,

Woods, who began his campaign by missing the cut at at European Tour event in Abu Dhabi last week, the same fate befalling No.1 Rory McIlroy, showed that was a mere blip with inspired play on the easier North Course.

Starting from the 10th, his round took off with a birdies on the 14th and 17th and an eagle on the 18th, set up by a superb iron approach.

The American ace started his back nine with straight birdies and as the rain came down he continued his fine progress.

Two birdies came in his final three holes, sandwiching his sole bogey on the day.

Woods said he was delighted to have backed up his fine driving with good recovery play on the rare occasion he was off the fairway.

"I've got my short game back to where I want to have it," he said after his round.

"But there's a long way to go and this golf course is not going to get any easier with this rain," he added.

He had opened his campaign with a four-under 68 on the tougher South Course as defending champion Brandt Snedeker shared the first round lead in the $6.1 million event after a 65 with Korea's' KJ Choi.

Snedeker dropped back into the pack on four under while Choi was on six under after their second rounds.

Read: McIlroy and Woods miss cut in Abu Dhabi

On the European Tour Friday, England's Chris Wood shot a brilliant 64 to take a three-shot lead into the final round of the Qatar Masters at the Doha Golf Club.

Looking for his first victory on the Tour since turning pro in 2008, the 25-year-old Wood has the trio of compatriot Simon Khan, Swede Alexander and New Zealander Michael Campbell as his closest challengers going into Saturday's final round.

Wood, he made his mark at the 2008 and 2009 British Opens eagled the 548-yard tenth to highlight his round.

He has a three-round aggregate of 13 under-par 201.

"I'm very excited. I wouldn't say it was one of my best rounds, but I played very solidly and was giving myself loads of chances," he told the European Tour website.

"Obviously it's going to be hard. It's hard to win any tournament on the European Tour."


Via: Woods charges into lead with 65

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Johnson wins wind-hit opener

Dustin Johnson won the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii after finishing 16-under-par at the reduced three-round event on Monday. Play was abandoned the previous three days due to high winds.

(CNN) -- Dustin Johnson clinched the opening PGA Tour title of 2013 after holding off a final round challenge from fellow American Steve Stricker at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii.

The season's curtain-raiser pitted 30 winners from 2012 against each other, but play was delayed by three days as high winds and torrential rain battered the Kapalua resort and caused the event to be reduced to just three rounds.

World No. 12 Johnson, three shots clear of defending champion Stricker heading into the final day, carded a five-under-par 68 to finish 16 under for tournament.

Stricker, one place behind Johnson in the world rankings, had a putt to draw level with Johnson at the 13th but he missed and his rival carded an eagle at the 14th to move into an unassailable four-stroke lead.

Read: Golf star breaks leg in skiing accident

"It gives me a lot of confidence going into this year," Johnson told the Tour's official website after becoming the first player since Tiger Woods to win a PGA Tour title in each of his first six seasons out of college.

Stricker started the day in confident mood, but his slip at the 13th proved decisive as he eventually finished 12 under following a bogey-free round of 69.

"I actually thought, as we started the round today, I could really put some serious pressure on this guy because I'm going to hit first every time to the green," said the 45-year-old, who is 90 under for his last 20 rounds at the Hawaii course.

"I had an opportunity, which is why we play is to have that opportunity to try to win. I had some chances today.

"I had some chances to put some pressure on early. Missed some putts there early in the round that could have made a difference, maybe not, but who knows-type thing."

Johnson and Stricker's 2012 U.S. Ryder Cup teammate Brandt Snedeker carded a 69 to finish 10 under, one shot clear of reigning Masters champion Bubba Watson (71) and 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley (70).

World No. 31 Rickie Fowler finished on eight under after a stunning six-under-par 67. The American was forced to start the tournament three times after wind halted his first two attempts.

Englishman Ian Poulter, one of the heroes of Europe's remarkable comeback victory against the U.S. in the September's Ryder Cup, finished five under after closing with a 69.

The 2012 PGA Championship winner Webb Simpson was four under for the following a final round 71.


Via: Johnson wins wind-hit opener

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Donaldson pips Rose to Abu Dhabi title

Welshman Jamie Donaldson claimed his second European Tour victory at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship

(CNN) -- Justin Rose couldn't miss when he was part of Europe's triumphant Ryder Cup team last year but his putter let him down when his time came to force a playoff at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.

The Englishman's putt caught the lip but didn't drop meaning Jamie Donaldson was able to secure his second European Tour victory without the nerve-shredding tension of a head-to-head over an extra few holes.

It took the 37-year-old Welshman 255 appearances to claim his maiden victory on the Tour -- at the Irish Open last year -- but only another 14 to land one of the most prestigious trophies on the circuit.

Donaldson carded a four-under-par final round of 68 but he dropped a shot on the final hole, opening the door to Rose and Denmark's 23-year-old Thorbjorn Olesen, who was also one shot back.

Read: McIlroy and Woods crash out in Abu Dhabi

But both players missed with their birdie attempts to secure Donaldson a title he admitted he thought he had no chance of winning during a pro-am tournament at the course on Wednesday.

"It's pretty surreal," Donaldson said at the presentation. "I played good golf all week, particularly today. I got away with murder up the last to be fair, but I'm very happy to be stood here with the trophy.

"It's a funny old game. I came during the week to play the pro-am and thought the course was too difficult. To be stood here holding the trophy is just mad.

"It was a nerve racking wait. I thought I hit a good putt on the last, I just misread it. I thought one of them would hole, if not both. I thought it was going to be a playoff, but when both slid by I knew it was my week."

Donaldson's impressive 2012 catapulted him to No. 47 in the world rankings -- he is set to climb higher with this latest triumph -- and secured him an invitation to the first major championship of the year, The Masters at Augusta in April.

He carded five birdies in the opening 17 holes to overtake a stuttering Rose, who bogeyed three of his first 16. Rose, instrumental in Europe's Ryder Cup comeback at Medinah last October, struggled on the greens to relinquish his grip on the tournament.

The lead was briefly held by England's David Howell, a member of Europe's winning Ryder Cup teams of 2004 and 2006, as he continued his resurgence having been 569th in the world rankings three years ago. But an inexplicable four-putt from four feet on the 13th saw him plummet down the leaderboard.

In a sparkling round, Donaldson's only dropped shot came on the final hole, which opened the door to the chasing duo, but neither Rose nor Olesen could take advantage as they shared second place.

Read: Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

Portugal's Ricardo Santos came fourth on 11-under while South Africa's Branden Grace was a shot further back on 10-under. Both Tiger Woods and world No. 1 Rory McIlroy failed to make the cut.

Donaldson said he was delighted with his recent form, and to pick up another title so soon after his first triumph at the 2012 Irish Open.

"It's like buses I suppose, it took a while," he added. "I had four years in wilderness if you like. To come through and win the Irish Open was fantastic and to top it off with this has been awesome."

As for his chances of winning the Masters he said: "You never know in this game, like I say you are stood here thinking on Wednesday you've got no chance and here I am with the trophy.

"I've got to keep working hard and doing the things that enabled me to win this trophy."


Via: Donaldson pips Rose to Abu Dhabi title

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Rose scents victory in Abu Dhabi

Justin Rose leads the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship by two strokes after 54 holes.

(CNN) -- Justin Rose will take a two-shot lead into the final round of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship after posting a four-under par 68 on Saturday.

With Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods fluffing shots (and their lines) on Friday, it was left to the Englishman to take center stage at the Abu Dhabi Golf Course with another impressive display of ball-striking.

Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

After bogeying the opening hole, Rose quickly made amends picking up five shots in six holes to reach the turn in 32.

Another birdie at the par three 12th saw Rose temporarily move four strokes clear of the field before dropped shots at the 13th and 17th checked his progress. But a birdie at the final hole ensured the 32-year-old finished two clear on 12-under par.

"I played really, really well today. Every time I had the club in the hand I was telling the guys outside that I felt like I was going to hit a good shot and that's not always the case," Rose said.

Blog: New Nike star poised to strike

"It snuck up on me. I think that's when you play your best golf, when you are not at all aware of how well you are going," he added.

Rose, who is looking to claim a sixth European Tour title, is two shots clear of Denmark's Thorbjorn Olesen and Jamie Donaldson of Wales -- both men posting rounds of 69 on Saturday.

How player power tipped Ryder Cup captaincy

Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee fired a six-under par round of 66 to leave him in fourth on nine-under par with England's David Howell (68), Scotland's Richie Ramsay (67) and Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano of Spain (71) one shot further back.

A seven-under par round of 65 helped Australia's Andrew Dodt jump 28 places up the leaderboard into a tie for eighth place on seven-under with Portugal's Ricardo Santos (66) and Kiwi Michael Campbell (69).


Via: Rose scents victory in Abu Dhabi

Friday, January 18, 2013

McIlroy and Woods crash out in Abu Dhabi

World No.1 Rory McIlroy missed the cut in Abu Dhabi just days after signing huge deal with Nike.

(CNN) -- Just days after signing a bumper multi-year deal with Nike, Rory McIlroy made an embarrassing early exit in Abu Dhabi along with stablemate Tiger Woods.

The world's top two golfers were supposed to usher in a new era of dominance within the sport for Nike, but neither man made the cut on a disappointing day.

The world No.1 finished on six-over, while Woods missed out after being hit with a two-stroke penalty for rules of infringement.

Justin Rose finished top of the leaderboard on eight-under following a round of 69, but it was McIlroy and Woods who caught the headlines.

Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

McIlroy, playing with his new Nike clubs for the first time, had not missed a cut since the U.S. Open in San Francisco last June.

But after starting the day well down the field following an opening round of 75, the Northern Irishman failed to battle back, despite reverting to his old putter.

"I just felt like the greens that I've been practising on are a lot faster than these," he told reporters.

"The Nike putter is great on that, but getting to here it's just a weight issue more than anything else.

"I can feel the head of the one I used today a little bit better, but the change was to no avail.

"I've got a few weeks off now to work at it and try and get my game in decent shape for the US."

McIlroy had vowed to improve on his opening round and hit three straight pars, but three bogeys in the next four holes left him floundering on six-over.

Birdies at eight and nine allowed some respite, but bogeys on the 10th and 14th ended his chances of making the cut at the course where he finished second last year.

McIlroy teams up with Tiger at Nike

He said: "I knew it was going to be a tough week with everything going on, but I was just looking forward to getting to the golf course and getting back to what I do and what I'm comfortable with.

"It just didn't work out like that. I hit the ball really well last week in practice in Dubai and just sort of gradually got worse this week for some reason.

Woods eyes long rivalry with McIlroy

"But I'm going to spend the weekend here and practise and work at it with Michael (coach Michael Bannon) a little bit.

"It's very disappointing. You really want to get off to a nice start at the start of the season, but I've got to realise that it is only the start of the season.

"As long as I feel like my game is in good shape heading into Augusta (the US Masters on April 11-14) that's all I'm worried about."

What kind of Nike poster boy will Rory McIlroy be?

Woods fared little better after he was hit with a two-stroke penalty for rules of infringement in the sand at the fifth hole.

And after finishing one one-over for the day, Woods said he just fell short following a poor start.

"It's tough because I didn't get off to a very good start today and I fought and got it back," he told reporters.

"I was right there and I felt that if I had close to even par, I had a chance going into the weekend, being only eight back. Evidently it wasn't enough."

Meanwhile, world number five Rose, will take a one-shot lead into the third round after moving clear of Welshman Jamie Donaldson, Denmark's Thorbjorn Olesen and Spain's Gonzalo Fernandez-Castro.

"I felt like my game definitely sharpened up," Rose said. "When you have perfect distance control you know you are swinging it well."


Via: McIlroy and Woods crash out in Abu Dhabi

Thursday, January 17, 2013

McIlroy ready to roar back

Rory McIlroy is hoping for a better second round in Abu Dhabi following a difficult start.

(CNN) -- Rory McIlroy says he is desperate to get back on track in Abu Dhabi after a disappointing first round of the new season.

Fresh from signing his new bumper multi-year deal with Nike, McIlroy struggled to adapt to his new clubs and hit two double bogeys on his way to a three-over-par 75.

Playing alongside stablemate Tiger Woods, who finished level for the day, McIlroy failed to impress on his return to the course where he came second behind Robert Rock last year.

Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

But the World No.1 says he will improve when he steps out for his second round Friday.

"Yeah, a bit of rust for sure," he told reporters, after being asked why he started so poorly.

"Not playing any competitive golf for eight weeks. I guess when you're going out with new stuff, you're always going to be a little bit anxious about hitting it close like you've done on the range and today that wasn't quite the case. Hopefully I can do that tomorrow.

"I was really happy with the way the ball is in the wind. I was really happy with the irons and the wedge play.

"I wasn't very comfortable off the tee, but just because I didn't feel like I was swinging it that well."

How player power tipped Ryder Cup captaincy

McIlroy's European Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose leads the way on five-under-par alongside Irish Open champion Jamie Donaldson.

Rose shot a bogey-free round of 67 but is expecting both Woods and McIlroy to threaten as the competition progresses.

"It's the first round of the year. There are a lot of factors involved, certainly a lot of factors for Rory involved this week," he said.

Tiger-Rory 'bromance': Can sports rivals really be friends?

"That's not his normal preparation with what he has had to obviously encounter the last couple of weeks, I'm sure.

"Tiger shot level and that's well within the golf tournament. So for me there's really no surprises there."

Defending champion Rock finished on 76, while Ernie Els, playing alongside Rock and Rose, had a 71, the same as Martin Kaymer.


Via: McIlroy ready to roar back

Kaymer: I'm ready for PGA Tour

Martin Kaymer has announced he will play on the PGA Tour along with several of his victorious European Ryder Cup teammates.

(CNN) -- Martin Kaymer, the man who holed the famous putt to cap off the "Miracle at Medinah", is set to leave Europe to compete on the USPGA Tour this year.

The 27-year-old, who briefly reached No.1 in the world in early 2011, finished last year strongly with victory at the Nedbank Challenge in South Africa following a difficult 12 months.

But his five-yard putt to win the Ryder Cup for Europe kick-started his run back into form towards the end of the year.

Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

Kaymer joins fellow Europeans Rory McIlroy, Lee Westwood, Nicolas Colsaerts, Luke Donald, Justin Rose, Graeme McDowell and Peter Hanson in making the switch to the U.S.

"It was the right time now," he told reporters ahead of the $2.7 million Abu Dhabi Championship.

"When I was 23, 24 it was maybe a little bit too early. Now I feel like I would try it out how it feels, knowing now what is going to happen in America.

"I've played there many times, majors, World Golf Championships

"I've got to know the culture more, me living in Arizona, so I feel comfortable."

McGinley beats Monty to Ryder Cup captaincy

Kaymer endured a frustrating 2012 after to make changes to his swing, an alteration which left his struggling for most of the year.

"For me it was the right time," he said. "I didn't feel like the No.1 in the world. I was, but I didn't feel like it," he added.

"I knew I couldn't play all the shots I wanted. And for me, if you are the best player in the world, you should be able to hit many, many different golf shots and I just couldn't.

"Just knowing that didn't make me feel like the No.1. If you don't feel like it, you will never stay No.1. So that's why I needed to change."


Via: Kaymer: I'm ready for PGA Tour

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Nike unveils Rory: Tiger's heir apparent

Sports giant Nike now has the two biggest names in golf on their books after Rory McIlroy (L) joined Tiger Woods at their stable.

(CNN) -- He is the heir apparent to Tiger Woods, on the course and off it. By the end of Monday, Rory McIlroy's bank balance will take a step closer to matching that of the most marketable star the sport has ever seen.

A bumper multi-year deal with Nike, reported by various media outlets to be worth over $200 million, will propel the Northern Irishman into a stratosphere inhabited only by the richest men and women in sport.

Though McIlroy may only have two major championships to his name compared to Woods' 14, at 23 he has time on his side as he strives to eclipse the achievements of his new stable mate.

And while Woods hasn't been able to recapture the form he showed prior to news of his extra-marital affairs breaking, Nike's courting of McIlroy is an attempt to pin down a star of the present and future who comes with less baggage, according to a sports business expert.

Read: McIlroy teams up with Tiger at Nike

"Nike is in a difficult position," Simon Chadwick, professor of Sport Business Strategy and Marketing at Coventry University told CNN, "because their number one golf property historically has fallen on hard times, relatively speaking.

"When Tiger Woods crashed his car into a fire hydrant in 2009, Phil Knight of Nike described it as a minor blip. Commercially that's quite interesting because I think they genuinely believed there was still some sustainability and financial value in the Woods brand heading into the future. But that just hasn't transpired.

"Tiger hasn't won a major since then and his public reputation hasn't recovered to where it was. That's a problem for Nike because what you've got to keep in mind is that Nike essentially built their whole golf business on the back of Woods and for a long time the vast majority of their commercial activity and their marketing was based around him. And it was very successful.

"They used not to have a significant golf business but now they do. The problem is that to a large extent, they've been left high and dry. They now have a global golf business without a credible brand spokesperson.

"So essentially what they've been looking for is an heir apparent, somebody with the same competitive characteristics as Woods but without the baggage, as well as somebody who can conceivably carry the brand into the future. That's why I think the length of the deal is absolutely crucial.

"It seems to me that what they're attempting to do is to build a sustainable business on the back of McIlroy over the next 10 years, just as they did with Woods over the first 13 years of their time together."

At a stroke, the deal transforms McIlroy into one of the hottest commercial properties in sport.

According to the Forbes list of 2012, McIlroy's deal with Nike will make him highest paid young sports star in the world, taking him well above the $17.4 million he earned in the year up to July 2012.

But he still has some way to go to catch Woods, who raked in total earnings of $59.4 million in the same time period. Both trail behind the world's top two highest grossing sports stars, boxers Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, who earned $85 million and $62 million respectively.

While Nike's outlay on Woods and McIlroy is significant, it will seem like money well spent should their twin titans end up battling it out going down the stretch at many a major tournament in the years to come.

But with both of golf's biggest stars now operating under the same umbrella, even if they don't end up slugging it out for honors on the course, the prospect of both players being available for marketing opportunities is a big draw for Nike, according to Tony Martin, a sport, event and project management consultant at Qatar Atlantic College in Doha.

Boulden: Which Nike star will Rory mirror?

"In many respects this is a coup for Nike as they now have some leverage on the two of the most marketable figures in the world of sport," he told CNN. "Golf fans everywhere are longing for the head to head battles between these two, given their considerable differences in age, style and personalities.

"Nike will certainly use their leverage to nurture such competition by ensuring their schedules are aligned to foster maximum exposure to such opportunities. When this begins to happen consistently, and I believe it will soon, Nike reaps the unbelievable rewards.

"This deal is not taken lightly and I am sure all of Nike's significant market research is verifying a likeability scale for this young man (McIlroy) that is off the charts."

Just as Nike will hope McIlroy can match Woods' prowess when it comes to bagging majors and green jackets, they could be forgiven for hoping the 23-year-old won't attract any salacious headlines away from the greens.

The sports giant recently dropped disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong after he was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping offenses, and withstood a barrage of bad press for their client when news of Woods' extra marital affairs broke.

McIlroy's only negative press to date has come via the odd misjudged quote -- which can be explained as a byproduct of his youthful exuberance and refreshing honesty in interviews -- and though he has earned plaudits for keeping his feet on the ground, Martin says there is no guarantee how he'll react if he reaches the level of fame Woods currently orbits.

"Rory represents a much different personality than Tiger and on the surface, epitomizes a safe investment for Nike," he said.

"However like Tiger, he appears to be a marketer's dream. The problem is, no one truly knows how any individual is going to react to all this money, fame and adoration until they have lived with it.

"These superstar athletes live in a fish bowl where their every comment, action and especially reactions are fodder for the media outlets around the world. Already, controversy is circling with regard to Rory's Olympic participation decision and legal issues with previous sponsors."

The first time the world will see Nike's new double act in action will be on Thursday when McIlroy and Woods line up for the HSBC Championship in Abu Dhabi.


Via: Nike unveils Rory: Tiger's heir apparent

McGinley beats Monty to Ryder Cup captaincy

Paul McGinley (R) captained Rory McIlroy in the Seve Trophy in 2009 when GB & Ireland took on Continental Europe

(CNN) -- He had the firm backing of world No. 1 Rory McIlroy as well as Europe's Ryder Cup talisman Ian Poulter, and on Tuesday night it was made official -- Paul McGinley will captain the continent against the United States in 2014.

Despite a late bid from successful 2010 captain Colin Montgomerie, who was keen to do the job on home soil in Scotland, player power won out as the Irishman was confirmed at a press conference in Abu Dhabi.

The 46-year-old played in three winning Ryder Cup teams and holed the clinching putt for Europe during the 2002 clash at The Belfry, in England.

McGinley was trumpeted for the role by McIlroy several times on Monday, and also by English duo Poulter -- one of Europe's heroes who inspired their dramatic comeback in Chicago last year -- and former world No.1 Luke Donald.

Read: Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

McIlroy said Montgomerie -- an eight-time European Order of Merit winner -- had "nothing to gain" by reprising his role and McGinley told reporters he was proud to be the first ever Irish Ryder Cup captain.

He said: "I'm obviously absolutely thrilled and delighted to lead the team with the strongest, in-depth European Tour in history; to be leading the cream of the crop is a huge honor.

"I knew I had the strong backing of the players. I thought the more I would say the more my chances would lessen. I watched with interest in the last few weeks as my chances went up and down like a yo-yo.

"To be honest it is quite a humbling experience to be sitting in this seat. It's a week I'm really looking forward to. I've been there many times as a player and as a vice captain but I'm looking forward to being a captain."

Europe has won five of the last six installments of the biannual team competition, including a stunning comeback victory at the last meeting in Chicago last year, when McGinley was vice captain to Jose Maria Olazabal.

Despite taking a big 10-6 lead into the final day singles matches, the U.S were stunned by a European comeback as the visitors won 14 to 13 in what has become known as 'the Miracle of Medinah.'

McIlroy was one of the European stars, alongside Poulter, and McGinley said the backing he got from the world's best player was a big factor in him getting the job.

"Its humbling when the new star of world golf comes out in your favor," he said. "That means a lot to me.

"There's a couple of good things that have happened for me in terms of getting this role. One of those is Rory and Graeme McDowell (2010 U.S. Open champion) played in the 2009 Seve Trophy, which was my first captaincy.

"I had the opportunity of captaining him, and Rory and Graeme were huge for me that week. I was fortunate I had that situation where Rory played underneath me and that's why he spoke with such authority on the subject."

After their painful defeat in Chicago the U.S. turned to one of the game's greatest ever players, Tom Watson, who was the last man to captain a winning United States team on European soil back in 1993.

Read: McIlroy backs McGinley for Ryder Cup captain

McGinley said he was honored to be squaring up against the eight-time major winner.

He added: "I'm relishing the thought of taking on one of my great heroes in Tom Watson. Not only is he a wonderful person, he's a great ambassador for the game of golf and has been for a long time. It's going to be a real thrill for me."

Players' Committee chairman Thomas Bjorn said they had listened to the voices of their members and that it became very clear early on in the meeting that McGinley was their preferred choice.

European Tour chief exec George O'Grady added: "It's a wonderful achievement for Paul. It was a unanimous decision of the players' committee and was testimony to the democracy of the process."


Via: McGinley beats Monty to Ryder Cup captaincy

Monday, January 14, 2013

McIlroy teams up with Tiger at Nike

Sports giant Nike now has the two biggest names in golf on their books after Rory McIlroy (L) joined Tiger Woods at their stable.

(CNN) -- World No.1 Rory McIlroy has ended months of speculation by confirming a sponsorship deal with Nike that could net him between $200-250 million according to media reports.

The two-time major winner from Northern Ireland joins Tiger Woods at the sports giant, who now have arguably the two biggest names in golf on their books.

At a press conference in Abu Dhabi, where McIlroy will this week play in the HSBC Golf Championship, Nike confirmed their new "multi-year" arrangement with golf's rising superstar but refused to reveal any extra details.

McIlroy told gathered reporters: "I've always associated Nike with the best. I play for titles I don't play for money."

McIlroy is out on his own at the top of the world rankings and the 23-year-old has shown he is capable of emulating Woods' haul of 14 majors.

It is a major coup for Nike after they recently dropped cyclist Lance Armstrong, who has been stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping offenses.

McIlroy was introduced as a Nike staff player by Cindy Davis, president of Nike Golf, who said the deal signified a "significant moment for our brand and our golf business, and for the career of an extraordinary young athlete."

Read: McIlroy is Tiger's heir apparent

At a stroke, the deal transforms McIlroy into one of the hottest commercial properties in sport.

According to the Forbes list of 2012, McIlroy's deal with Nike will make him the highest paid young sports star in the world, taking him well above the $17.4 million he earned in the year up to July 2012.

Yet he still has some way to go to catch Woods, who raked in total earnings of $59.4 million in the same time period.

Nonetheless, both trail behind the world's top two highest grossing sports stars, boxers Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Manny Pacquiao, who earned $85m and $62m respectively according to Forbes.

Last year, McIlroy won his second major -- adding the PGA Championship to the U.S. Open title he won the year before -- while also becoming world No. 1 for the first time.

"Last year was a big year," he told the audience in Abu Dhabi. "This year, I think I can go to a new level. I'm practicing as hard as ever, with the best company behind me, and hopefully I can win more majors."

"Growing up I always thought all the best athletes in most sports were Nike players and I'm looking forward to joining the Nike family," he added.

McIlroy started testing his new clubs at the Nike factory in Texas late last year and says the transition from his former Titleist equipment has been seamless.

"I was blown away by the research and development that went in, and I'm really excited about the equipment. I'm really confident in the equipment and excited to put it in play this week."

Born in the town of Holywood in 1989, McIlroy was initially taught golf by his late father before turning professional in 2007.

Despite his tender age, he believes he has raised his game to a level whereby he would now consider a year without a major triumph as a major failure.

"I guess if I go this year without a major, it will be a bad year," he said. "If I get to the end of 2013 and I haven't won a major, I would be disappointed."

The latest addition to the Nike stable was welcomed in a pre-recorded video by three of the highest-profile sportsmen in the world: England and Manchester United footballer Wayne Rooney, Swiss tennis player Roger Federer and Woods himself.


Via: McIlroy teams up with Tiger at Nike

McGinley backed for Ryder Cup captaincy

Paul McGinley (R) captained Rory McIlroy in the Seve Trophy in 2009 when GB & Ireland took on Continental Europe

(CNN) -- Colin Montgomerie might have masterminded Europe's charge to wrest the Ryder Cup back from the United States in 2010 but a hat-trick of the continent's best players are adamant he should not be allowed to reprise his role.

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy reiterated his support for 2012 vice captain Paul McGinley on the day he announced a new multi-year sponsorship deal with Nike.

The 23-year-old -- a two-time major winner -- claimed Montgomerie would have "nothing to gain" from taking the job on again and his stance was backed by English pair Ian Poulter and Luke Donald.

McGinley, a three-time Ryder Cup winner as a player, captained McIlroy at the Seve Trophy in 2009, when Great Britain and Ireland played against Continental Europe.

Read: Nike unveils Rory McIlroy: Tiger's heir apparent

"It's something I feel quite strongly about; I feel Paul deserves his chance," McIlroy told CNN from Abu Dhabi. "He's been vice captain a few times, he's holed the winning putt in the Ryder Cup.

"I played under him as a captain in the Seve Trophy a few years ago and thought he was the best captain I've ever played under.

"I think he's very deserving and I think it would almost be a little unfair if he didn't get it."

Earlier, at his Nike press conference, McIlroy said: "I personally don't feel Monty has anything to gain over this.

"If we go to Gleneagles and lose, he's already a winning Ryder Cup captain. I'm fully behind Paul and I think Paul should get the job and hopefully he does."

Poulter was instrumental in Europe's comeback against the U.S. in the latest installment of the biannual team competition, as they recovered from a 10-6 deficit to retain the trophy in what was known as 'The Miracle of Medinah' in October.

Donald delivered two vital points -- one in Saturday's fourballs and again in the crucial opening singles match against 2012 Masters champion Bubba Watson.

Along with McIlroy, both were instrumental in Montgomerie's winning turn at Celtic Manor in Wales in 2010 but none of the trio think the legendary Scot should be appointed again.

It had seemed to be a straight battle between 2011 British Open champion Darren Clarke, and Irish compatriot McGinley, who both served as vice captains to Jose Maria Olazabal in Chicago.

But when the Americans turned once again to Tom Watson, the last U.S. captain to triumph on European soil in 1993, Montgomerie's name began to circulate.

Boulden: What kind of Nike poster boy will Rory McIlroy be?

Ahead of the announcement on either Tuesday or Wednesday in Abu Dhabi, Montgomerie has emerged as favorite and the 49-year-old has confirmed he would do it again if asked.

But Poulter took to micro-blogging site Twitter to say: "Darren (Clarke) has taken his name out of the running for Ryder Cup captaincy. It would be fantastic to have Paul McGinley as the 2014 captain."

His view was shared by Donald, who became the first man to top the money lists on both the European and PGA Tour in 2011.

He tweeted: "I hope Paul McGinley gets his chance, he's been an amazing Vice Captain and deserves an opportunity."

The announcement will be made after a 15-man committee that includes Montgomerie, Clarke and McGinley meets to decide.


Via: McGinley backed for Ryder Cup captaincy

Sunday, January 13, 2013

McIlroy stirs up Ryder Cup debate

Rory McIlroy, right, talks with his then Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie before Europe's 2010 victory in Wales.

(CNN) -- While the sporting world awaits confirmation of his mega-money new sponsorship deal with Nike, Rory McIlroy has deflected attention to one of the other big stories on golf's horizon this week -- the naming of the next European Ryder Cup captain.

The world No. 1 was part of last year's winning team, famously triumphing in his final-day singles match after needing a police escort to get to the Medinah course on time.

Jose Maria Olazabal stood down after guiding the Europeans to a remarkable come-from-behind win over the U.S. -- and his assistants Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley were initially frontrunners for the 2014 role at Gleneagles in Scotland.

However, that changed when the Americans turned once again to Tom Watson, the last U.S. captain to triumph on European soil in 1993 and who won four of his eight major titles at Scottish links courses.

Since then Colin Montgomerie has been widely tipped to repeat his 2010 role, when Europe won at Celtic Manor, and the eight-time European Tour money list winner confirmed last week that he would be interested in the leading the team in his home country.

Read: Jamieson climbs out of 'abyss' to live the dream

"I thought it was between Darren and Paul until Darren said something, then my name was mentioned," Montgomerie said ahead of the Volvo Champions event in South Africa, where he finished 18 shots behind Sunday's victor Louis Oosthuizen.

"I've never canvassed, as I didn't last time. I've not spoken to anybody about this. But I've always felt that if I was asked I would do it and that's still the case."

However, McIlroy -- who played under Montgomerie -- has firm opinions about who should be captain.

"Ryder Cup captaincy should be a 1-time thing," the Northern Irishman said on his Twitter page.

"Everybody deserving gets their chance and moves on. Would love to play under Paul McGinley in '14."

Bernard Gallacher, the last man to captain Europe more than once, agreed that Montgomerie should not return.

"Colin said himself, when he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, he intends to compete on the American seniors tour the moment he turns 50 this summer," the 63-year-old, who was skipper in 1991, '93 and '95, told the Scottish Daily Record newspaper.

"So he will very quickly become out of touch with the players on the main tour. What message would that send to the other worthy candidates who are queuing up for the job, having earned their right to the captaincy just as much as Colin?"

Read: Oosthuizen digs out a lead in Durban

Paul Lawrie, who tied for seventh at Durban Country Club on Sunday, has also spoken out against the chances of his compatriot Montgomerie.

"He's had his go. One time job for me," the 1999 British Open champion wrote on Twitter.

However, fellow professional Henrik Stenson, who was on the committee that first appointed Montgomerie, said the 49-year-old might yet be picked again on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.

"No-one would question his passion for the Ryder Cup and the effort he put into the captaincy in 2010 and I am sure he would do the same and maybe more this time around if he was to be asked. So that might be a possible scenario," the Swede told the Scotsman newspaper.

Olazabal, who finished joint last in the 33-man Volvo Champions tournament, said he would not be interested in taking the job again.

"First of all it's a lot of energy and time, a huge demand and the pressure is quite big," the Spaniard told the UK Press Association.

"Even if it was held in Spain again somewhere down the line I wouldn't do it. Monty has also done it and was successful too. If I was him I wouldn't do it again, but Monty is his own man.

"I am a strong believer that we have a generation of players that deserve the captaincy -- and some might miss out because there are just too many. I think it's right to give those guys a chance."

Read : Colsaerts' driving length stuns rivals

The debate, which comes ahead of this week's Abu Dhabi Championship featuring McIlroy and Tiger Woods, has taken some of the attention off Oosthuizen's remarkable come-from-behind victory in Durban.

The South African has risen to a career-high fourth in the world rankings after wiping out Scott Jamieson's five-shot lead within the first 11 holes of the final round.

The 2010 British Open champion shot six-under-par 66 to win by one stroke, denying the Scot his second win in the city in the space of a month.

It was his sixth victory on the European Tour, lifting him up to second in the Race to Dubai standings behind world No. 100 Jamieson, and his seventh top-10 finish in his last eight starts.

"It's a great start to the year, I knew I had to come out and get my name up there," the 30-year-old said.

Jamieson, who won the Nelson Mandela Championship in December to qualify for the limited field, almost forced a playoff when his eagle chip attempt at the last hole stopped just short of the hole.

"Louis's a major champion -- there's no shame in losing to him," the 29-year-old said.

Meanwhile, rookies Russell Henley and Scott Langley took a three-shot lead into the final round of the PGA Tour's Sony Open in Hawaii on Sunday.

The Americans were being chased by South African Tim Clark, while another newcomer -- Australian Scott Gardiner -- was tied for fourth with U.S. tour stalwart Charles Howell.


Via: McIlroy stirs up Ryder Cup debate

Jimenez breaks leg in ski crash

Miguel Angel Jimenez celebrates with a glass of red wine and a cigar after becoming the European Tour's oldest winner with victory at the age of 48 in November's Hong Kong Open.

(CNN) -- Miguel Angel Jimenez may be the oldest golfer to win on the European Tour, but his lust for life has put a big dent in his hopes of extending that record in 2013.

The 48-year-old, known for his love of cigars and fine wine, has been ruled out for at least three months after breaking his leg while skiing in his native Spain at the weekend.

"When I took up skiing I knew the risks that I was taking, but I love it so much I could not stop," he told the European Tour website.

"I was going down a hill and lost control briefly and when I fell it was very sore. I knew immediately I had broken something.

"The medical staff at Sierra Nevada took me for an x-ray straight away and I am very thankful to them, as well as all of the staff at the hospital, for their quick and professional response. "

The verdict was a broken tibia, just below his right knee, and he had surgery after being taken to hospital in Malaga.

Jimenez became the European Tour's oldest winner when he triumphed in Hong Kong in November, his 19th victory on the circuit.

"I was playing very well at the end of the season so it is obviously not a good time for me to get injured," said Jimenez, a three-time member of winning European Ryder Cup teams and a vice-captain for Jose Maria Olazabal at Medinah this year.

"It has not all been bad news for me to finish the year, however, and in just a few days I will be opening my new golf school near Torremolinos."


Via: Jimenez breaks leg in ski crash

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Jamieson climbs out of 'abyss' to live dream

Scott Jamieson of Scotland tees off during Saturday's third round of the Volvo Champions at Durban Country Club on January 12.

(CNN) -- Scott Jamieson knows all about struggling in golf's lower echelons, but the Scotsman has been living the dream in the past month.

He won his first European Tour event at the rain-shortened Nelson Mandela Championship in December, earning a place at another South African tournament -- this week's Volvo Golf Champions.

The 29-year-old will take a five-shot lead into Sunday's final round at Durban Country Club, knowing that even greater opportunities await if he can hold off the likes of major champions Louis Oosthuizen, Padraig Harrington, Paul Lawrie and Ernie Els.

Another victory will earn him a place at next month's Accenture Match Play in Arizona, which would be his debut appearance in a World Golf Championships event.

Read: Oosthuizen digs out a lead in Durban

Having started this week at a career-high 100th in the world rankings, it would also push him closer to the top 50 and his first outing at the Masters in Augusta in April.

It's a far cry from his early days as a professional, slogging around minor circuits before finally making the step up to the European Tour in 2011, making the top 60 on the money list in his first two seasons.

"I was just in the abyss, so I guess slumming around in the lower leagues helps build your character," said Jamieson, who was an amateur at Augusta State University before turning pro in 2006.

"I was fortunate to keep playing when money was not necessarily being chucked at me."

On Saturday he carded a four-under-par 68 to move clear of 2010 British Open champion Louis Ooosthuizen (74), Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee (73) and France's world No. 187 Julian Quesne (67).

"It was another great day. I didn't play as well as I did the first two days, especially tee-to-green, but managed to score well and that's the main thing," Jamieson said.

Read : Colsaerts' driving length stuns rivals

That chasing trio ended the day tied for second on 10-under 206, two shots clear of three-time major winner Harrington (67) and Ryder Cup winner Francesco Molinari (68).

Jamieson's compatriot Lawrie, the 1999 British Open winner, was tied for seventh on 209 with Ireland's Shane Lowry and Englishman Danny Willett after all carded 70.

Els, the current holder of the coveted Claret Jug, was tied for 11th on 211 in a group also including defending champion and fellow South African Branden Grace.

Meanwhile, rookie Russel Henley took a two-shot lead at the halfway stage of the PGA Tour's Sony Open in Hawaii.

The 23-year-old shot his second successive seven-under 63 on Friday to move ahead of fellow Americans Scott Langley (66) and Scott Piercy (64) at the $5.6 million tournament in Honolulu.

Henley's playing partner Langley, also making his debut on the U.S. circuit, had led after a first-round 62.

Dustin Johnson, who won the wind-hit season-opening Tournament of Champions at Kapalua on Tuesday, pulled out after nine holes of his second round due to illness.


Via: Jamieson climbs out of 'abyss' to live dream

Woods eyes long McIlroy rivalry

Tiger Woods is a 14-time major winner, while McIlroy became golf's youngest double major champion this year.

(CNN) -- Fourteen-time major winner Tiger Woods has set his sights on rivaling world No. 1 Rory McIlroy over the next five to 10 years.

Northern Ireland's McIlroy was confirmed as the year-end No. 1 earlier this week, after a landmark year which saw him win his second major and become only the second player to finish top of both the European and PGA Tour money lists.

Woods, who spent a record 281 consecutive weeks at the top of the world rankings before details of extra-marital affairs caused his personal life to implode in November 2009, wants to once again challenge for top honors after three PGA Tour wins in 2012.

"Rory McIlroy had a wonderful year and my hat is off to him," Woods, who is third in the world rankings behind McIlroy and Englishman Luke Donald, wrote in a blog on his official website.

"He deserved Player of the Year. Whether we develop a rivalry remains to be seen. Let's just let it play out and see where it takes us."

In order for their rivalry to develop, Woods says he and McIlroy need to go head-to-head in the closing stages of the sport's biggest tournaments.

It happened just once in 2012, with McIlroy beating Woods by two strokes at the $5.7 million Honda Classic.

The duo did face off in a lucrative exhibition match in China dubbed the "Duel at Jinsha Lake". McIlroy emerged victorious from the $2 million showdown.

"We'll look at the results (over) the next five or 10 years and see if it becomes a rivalry or not. We'll have to win big events and play each other down the stretch," added Woods, who is hoping to equal Jack Nicklaus' record total of 18 majors in 2013.

"That hasn't happened yet. We've only played each other at Honda down the stretch. We need a lot more of those type of battles, but in bigger events."

McIlroy's growing stature within golf was recognized by his inclusion in the Forbes Magazine 30 under 30 list -- a rundown of the most influential teens and 20-somethings in the sporting world.

The 23-year-old was joined on the list by his tennis star girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki. The Dane topped the world rankings for 67 of 68 weeks between 2010 and 2012 despite still awaiting her first career grand slam.


Via: Woods eyes long McIlroy rivalry

Friday, January 11, 2013

Oosthuizen digs out lead in Durban

Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa poses with his prize for winning the Amateur-Pro competition after the second round.

(CNN) -- Louis Oosthuizen enjoyed a dream day in Durban after landing a brand new excavator for his farm.

With a car up for grabs for the victor of the pro-am tournament held alongside the main event, Oosthuizen had arranged for a digger to be awarded should he triumph.

Colsaerts shows strength to stun rivals

Having completed a round of 64 to move a shot clear on 12-under, the former Open Champion ended the day in pole position ahead of Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee and Scotland's Scott Jamieson.

Oosthuizen, who then played around with the vehicle, told reporters: "I'm walking away with a nice gift for the farm. That's going to be a lot of fun next week playing around with it!"

From farmer's boy to British Open champion, golf's new superstar

Jamieson, who shot a 64 to move into joint-second, is enjoying his first week in the top 100 and is hoping to build on last month's win at the Nelson Mandela Championship at Royal Durban.

"If it rains for a couple more days maybe that's a good thing for me," the 29-year-old told reporters.

Behind Jamieson, there is a big tussle with six players stuck on five-under.

England's Danny Willett, Scot Paul Lawrie, Irishman Shane Lowry, Frenchman Julien Quesne, Indian Jeev Milkha Singh and Dane Thomas Bjorn are all in the group with current Open champion Ernie Els a shot further back.

Current Open champion Ernie Els is among those one further back following a disappointing 72.

The Volvo Golf Champions is restricted to 2012 European Tour winners and those with more than 10 career titles on the circuit, and there is no halfway cut because of the small field.


Via: Oosthuizen digs out lead in Durban

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Colsaerts shows strength to stun rivals

Nicolas Colsaerts showed his power by producing an astonishing drive on the third hole in Durban.

(CNN) -- Nicolas Colsaerts produced a monstrous 419-yard drive to stun his opponents at the Durban Country Club Thursday.

The Belgian, who was part of the victorious European Ryder Cup team which won at Medina, was the biggest driver on the European and PGA Tours last season.

But even local favorite Ernie Els was shocked by the sheer power and distance Colsaerts managed to get on his ball at the third hole.

"I've been coming here since 1986 I think and I've never seen a ball there, nobody has," Els told reporters.

"They should put a plaque down. I was coming from a different zip code. And I've got to compete against these animals!"

While Colsaerts stole the show with his huge driving, it was Els who enjoyed the better round of the two.

Johnson holds off Stricker

The South African finished the day in second position, on four-under alongside compatriot Louis Oosthuizen following a round of 68.

"We probably got the bad side of the draw, but that's part of golf," said Oosthuizen,

"I enjoy the course. You have to think a lot - I hit the driver on only two holes - and put a three-iron in my bag only 15 minutes before we teed off."

Former paratrooper Thongchai Jaidee leads the field by three shots following a round of seven-under 65.

Thongchai recorded eight birdies during his opening round to seal his place at the top of the leaderboard.

"I enjoyed the course which requires you to think a lot," said the 43-year-old Thai.

"I used a driver only twice and found a three iron I put in my bag just before teeing off very useful."


Via: Colsaerts shows strength to stun rivals

Johnson holds off Stricker at Kapalua

Dustin Johnson won the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii after finishing 16-under-par at the reduced three-round event on Monday. Play was abandoned the previous three days due to high winds.

(CNN) -- Dustin Johnson clinched the opening PGA Tour title of 2013 after holding off a final round challenge from fellow American Steve Stricker at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii.

The season's curtain-raiser pitted 30 winners from 2012 against each other, but play was delayed by three days as high winds and torrential rain battered the Kapalua resort and caused the event to be reduced to just three rounds.

World No. 12 Johnson, three shots clear of defending champion Stricker heading into the final day, carded a five-under-par 68 to finish 16 under for tournament.

Stricker, one place behind Johnson in the world rankings, had a putt to draw level with Johnson at the 13th but he missed and his rival carded an eagle at the 14th to move into an unassailable four-stroke lead.

Read: Golf star breaks leg in skiing accident

"It gives me a lot of confidence going into this year," Johnson told the Tour's official website after becoming the first player since Tiger Woods to win a PGA Tour title in each of his first six seasons out of college.

Stricker started the day in confident mood, but his slip at the 13th proved decisive as he eventually finished 12 under following a bogey-free round of 69.

"I actually thought, as we started the round today, I could really put some serious pressure on this guy because I'm going to hit first every time to the green," said the 45-year-old, who is 90 under for his last 20 rounds at the Hawaii course.

"I had an opportunity, which is why we play is to have that opportunity to try to win. I had some chances today.

"I had some chances to put some pressure on early. Missed some putts there early in the round that could have made a difference, maybe not, but who knows-type thing."

Johnson and Stricker's 2012 U.S. Ryder Cup teammate Brandt Snedeker carded a 69 to finish 10 under, one shot clear of reigning Masters champion Bubba Watson (71) and 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley (70).

World No. 31 Rickie Fowler finished on eight under after a stunning six-under-par 67. The American was forced to start the tournament three times after wind halted his first two attempts.

Englishman Ian Poulter, one of the heroes of Europe's remarkable comeback victory against the U.S. in the September's Ryder Cup, finished five under after closing with a 69.

The 2012 PGA Championship winner Webb Simpson was four under for the following a final round 71.


Via: Johnson holds off Stricker at Kapalua

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Johnson holds off Stricker at Tournament of Champions

Dustin Johnson won the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii after finishing 16-under-par at the reduced three-round event on Monday. Play was abandoned the previous three days due to high winds.

(CNN) -- Dustin Johnson clinched the opening PGA Tour title of 2013 after holding off a final round challenge from fellow American Steve Stricker at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii.

The season's curtain-raiser pitted 30 winners from 2012 against each other, but play was delayed by three days as high winds and torrential rain battered the Kapalua resort and caused the event to be reduced to just three rounds.

World No. 12 Johnson, three shots clear of defending champion Stricker heading into the final day, carded a five-under-par 68 to finish 16 under for tournament.

Stricker, one place behind Johnson in the world rankings, had a putt to draw level with Johnson at the 13th but he missed and his rival carded an eagle at the 14th to move into an unassailable four-stroke lead.

Read: Golf star breaks leg in skiing accident

"It gives me a lot of confidence going into this year," Johnson told the Tour's official website after becoming the first player since Tiger Woods to win a PGA Tour title in each of his first six seasons out of college.

Stricker started the day in confident mood, but his slip at the 13th proved decisive as he eventually finished 12 under following a bogey-free round of 69.

"I actually thought, as we started the round today, I could really put some serious pressure on this guy because I'm going to hit first every time to the green," said the 45-year-old, who is 90 under for his last 20 rounds at the Hawaii course.

"I had an opportunity, which is why we play is to have that opportunity to try to win. I had some chances today.

"I had some chances to put some pressure on early. Missed some putts there early in the round that could have made a difference, maybe not, but who knows-type thing."

Johnson and Stricker's 2012 U.S. Ryder Cup teammate Brandt Snedeker carded a 69 to finish 10 under, one shot clear of reigning Masters champion Bubba Watson (71) and 2011 PGA Championship winner Keegan Bradley (70).

World No. 31 Rickie Fowler finished on eight under after a stunning six-under-par 67. The American was forced to start the tournament three times after wind halted his first two attempts.

Englishman Ian Poulter, one of the heroes of Europe's remarkable comeback victory against the U.S. in the September's Ryder Cup, finished five under after closing with a 69.

The 2012 PGA Championship winner Webb Simpson was four under for the following a final round 71.


Via: Johnson holds off Stricker at Tournament of Champions

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Johnson takes charge in windy Hawaii

Dustin Johnson leads the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii on 11-under-par after the field played 36 holes Monday. Play was abandoned the previous three days due to high winds.

(CNN) -- A wind of change blew through Hawaii Monday and thankfully it was gentle enough to allow the PGA's Tournament of Champions to finally get under way.

For three days in a row the 30-strong field, all of whom won a PGA Tour event in 2012, had to sit idly by as play was canceled due to strong winds and driving rain.

It led to the bizarre sight of Rickie Fowler officially starting the new campaign three times, after his first two attempts were derailed by the weather.

But once the action began Dustin Johnson's detailed preparation for the competition showed, as his six practice rounds prior to teeing off in Maui helped him shoot rounds of 69 and 66 to lead on 11-under-par.

Read: PGA Tour season opener ruined by winds

The U.S. Ryder Cup star leads by three shots from fellow countryman Steve Stricker, with 2012 Masters champion Bubba Watson a further shot back.

Johnson now has a further 18 holes on Tuesday to retain his lead and take the first title of 2013. "I hit the ball really well this afternoon," he told the PGA Tour's official website.

"This course is a tough walk and it's really windy out there, but I'm in pretty good shape. I can handle it. I didn't really have an off season; I had a few weeks off but I needed a practice so that why I came out here early and get back into it.

"I've got new irons and a new driver now so I'm pretty pleased with my equipment and I'm pretty pleased with my game right now."

Johnson can feel confident going into the final day given he has triumphed in the last two PGA Tour events that have been shortened to 54 holes.

He added: "I've still got 18 more holes of golf. It wouldn't matter if it was 72 holes or 54. (Tuesday) is still the last round and there's 18 holes to play, so got to get the job done."

Monday's action was very nearly over almost before it began as two golf balls moved on the green due to strong gusts but the wind subsided and play continued the rest of the day.

Johnson missed just three greens in regulation during his double round and he carded only three bogeys in 36 holes.

Johnson's nearest challenger is Stricker despite the veteran struggling with pain in his lower back. The 45-year-old carded rounds of 71 and 67 to give him hope going into the final round.

Read: Golf star Beljan: I thought I was going to die

"Nobody knows if it's a muscle with pressure on the sciatic nerve or if there's a problem with a disk," Stricker said ot the discomfort he felt during his long day.

"My back feels great. I don't feel tight. I don't feel stiff. Just every time I get over to my left side, I'm getting a shooting pain down my leg. I'm not hitting it full strength and I'm just trying to keep it in front of me and play the smart shots."

Watson, who will defend his Masters title when the first major championship of 2013 gets underway in April, is on seven-under, four off the lead, but says Johnson is in top form going into the last day.

"The way he's playing, the way he's striking it, the way he's controlling his golf ball, it's pretty good right now," he said of his Monday playing partner. "And I don't see any different (on Tuesday) from him."

Watson is one shot ahead of 2011 U.S. PGA Champion Keegan Bradley. He is tied on six-under with 2012 FedEx Cup winner Brandt Snedeker.


Via: Johnson takes charge in windy Hawaii

Monday, January 7, 2013

PGA Tour season opener ruined by winds

Masters champion Bubba Watson pretends to tee off as his caddy Ted Scott holds a finger on the ball to keep it from blowing away during Sunday's delayed opening round of the Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

(CNN) -- Charlie Beljan ended 2012 on an incredible high after a fairytale first victory on the PGA Tour, but his hopes of capitalizing on that breakthrough win have been blown away in the season-opener in Hawaii.

The U.S. golfer overcame a debilitating panic attack in Florida to qualify for the 30-man Tournament of Champions, returning to the course at Disney World after being taken to hospital.

However, the traditional curtain-raiser for the elite U.S. circuit has yet to get going, with high winds and rain causing play to be canceled on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The $5.7 million event has been reduced from four rounds to three, with 36 holes to be played on Monday and the final 18 on Tuesday.

Beljan: I thought I was going to die

If the wind continues to blow, even that is looking unlikely. Organizers face the prospect of it being reduced to "unofficial" status if only two rounds are possible -- while a cut to 18 holes would mean none of the purse counts for the 2013 money list.

PGA Tour chief of operations Andy Pazder said the forecast is improving, with winds due to drop from nearly 50 miles per hour (80 kph) to 25-30 mph (40-50 kph).

"It's the gusts that creep up above 40 that have knocked us out. We had registered gusts up to 48 mph right before we suspended play today," Pazder told the PGA Tour website on Sunday.

"Somewhere in the low 40s is what puts us out of business."

While players actually got out on the course on Saturday and Sunday, they were left frustrated as balls blew off their tees and disappeared off putting greens after being placed.

"They have not mowed the greens in two days and the wind is still blowing balls off the green," Beljan wrote on Twitter.

"Brutal been in Hawaii for a week and still have not played a competitive round of golf."

English golf star Ian Poulter also took to Twitter after being accused of taking too long over a putt by NBC commentator Johnny Miller.

"Oh that was why I was taking a while. Ben Curtis had a 40ft putt then it blows 15ft off the green into the rough. Then 4 putts that hole," the 2012 Ryder Cup winner wrote.


Via: PGA Tour season opener ruined by winds

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Europe woos Japanese golf fans

Ryo Ishikawa is one of Japan's biggest hopes for the country's first major title.

(CNN) -- The European Tour is continuing its global expansion by targeting what it calls "one of the world's biggest golf markets."

It has launched a Japanese version of its official website -- the first in a non-European language following French, German and Spanish ones.

The European Tour does not have any tournaments in Japan, which has its own circuit, but has made big inroads in other Asian venues such as China, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore.

"It is another important step forward in our strategy of providing a localized experience of the European Tour for our fans all over the world," director of broadcasting and new media Mark Lichtenhein said.

"Given the globalization of the European Tour and popularity of golf and the Tour in Japan, this introduction of the first non-European language is an exciting new dimension to our multilingual strategy."

The ruling body will team up with Golf Digest Online to provide the content, marking the beginning of its 2013 Race to Dubai season.

"We believe this agreement will bring huge benefit for Japanese audience, and we will make our best effort to showcase the great tournaments and players from the European Tour," Golf Digest Online editor in chief Yasuko Mukai said.

The news came as Masters champion Bubba Watson tipped young Japanese golfer Ryo Ishikawa to become the first player from his country to win a major title.

The American played with the 21-year-old for the first two rounds of this week's Thailand Championship -- they were tied for seventh after the third round on Saturday.

"He's good enough to win at any level -- he can win a major," Watson said of Ishikawa, who finished 108th on the PGA Tour this year and will play fulltime on the U.S. circuit in 2013.

They were 11 shots behind South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, who took a five-stroke advantage over Sweden's Daniel Chopra into Sunday's final round -- when he will seek to win his first title since earning his maiden major at the 2011 Masters.

The European Tour's opening event for the 2013 season has been plagued by bad weather in South Africa, where home hope Tim Clark shared the lead after a delayed first round on Saturday.

Clark and Denmark's Morten Orum Madsen both carded five-under-par 60 at the Nelson Mandela Championship, while South Africa's Lindani Ndwandwe was tied for third with England's Chris Lloyd on 61.

At the Australian Open, John Senden took a two-shot lead into Sunday's final round as he seeks to win his home event for the second time.

The 41-year-old Queenslander, champion in 2006, was being chased by Ryder Cup star Justin Rose -- who is bidding to become only the second European to win the tournament, following fellow Englishman Lee Westwood in 1997.

Meanwhile, China's Shanshan Feng won the Ladies European Tour's season-ending event in Dubai on Saturday, having led from the first round.

The world No. 6 preserved her five-shot lead in Saturday's final round to finish with the lowest total since the event began in 2006 -- her 21-under-par 267 beat the 18-under set by Sweden's Annika Sorenstam and In Kyung Kim of South Korea.

However, she was unable to beat Sorenstam's record winning margin of six shots from the inaugural staging as she carded 69 to stay clear of Dutch golfer Dewi Claire Schreefel.

Defending champion Lexi Thompson of the U.S. was tied for 10th, 12 shots behind the winner.

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Via: Europe woos Japanese golf fans

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