Blog

A Golfing Misadventure: Four Guys, One Wild Saturday Afternoon

Published

2 years ago

June 3, 2023

This story is mainly true, well kinda…only all the events and names have been changed to protect the golfer’s identities – BUT, You know who you are – Mike!

INTRODUCTION

Ah, the perfect Saturday afternoon: sunny skies, a gentle breeze, and the promise of a relaxing round of golf. Little did our fearless foursome know, their golfing escapade would soon turn into a hilarious series of misadventures. Join me as we dive into the timeless tale of four guys who set out for a leisurely golfing expedition, only to find themselves knee-deep in the rough, a little bit of laughter, and one of them drenched in pond water and out of golf balls by the 9th hole…

TIMELINE

Tee Time Troubles: Our adventure begins at the local golf course, where our four heroes—Bill, Tom, Jerry, and Mike (The dentist sandbagger who claims he has played all of 2 rounds of golf in the last year but you know he is on the range every week). They arrived bright and early, armed with their golf clubs and a pocketful of dreams. As they approach the first tee, a chorus of squawks echoes through the air. Turns out, they’ve accidentally stumbled upon a pigeon convention! Chaos ensues as they dodge the frantic birds, their white rain and feathers dropping like hail in a Michigan winter, and a starter who is calling them to the box for the final time…

Ahhh, they survived, and manage to tee off amidst the chaos. Now we are not sure if Tom actually got covid or the Avian flu that day, but that story is for another day…

Bill: “Well, it appears pigeons around here are avid golf spectators. Should we offer them a handicap?” Jerry: “Well, at least they don’t charge greens fees and who knew freckin birds could read!”

The Caddy Conundrum: To make things more interesting, our band of merry golfers decides to pony up and hire a caddie for the first time.

Enter Dotty, a witty caddy with a penchant for sarcasm. As they make their way through the course, Dotty can’t help but poke fun at their golfing skills (or lack thereof).Dotty: “Gentlemen, I must say, your swings are a work of art—abstract art, that is!” Tom: “Hey now, Picasso had to start somewhere right?” Everyone laughs except Mike…

Mike: “Seriously guys, Maybe we should just stick to mini-golf next time. I told you I haven’t been playing much! (We all know that guy – am I right?)

The Water Hazard Incident: Every weekend warrior’s nightmare…the dreaded water hazard. Our heroes are no exception. As they approach a treacherous pond that stretches the entire left-hand side of the hole, they swap stories and golf balls, reaching into their bags and trading their Pro V1’s for Pinnacles – you know just in case. They reminisce about their most embarrassing golf moments, trying to calm their nerves.

Bill, is on the edge of the water on a par 4. He has 147 yards into the green but also a very precarious stance and a lie that would make even Jordan Speith scared (Think the ledge at Pebble – in case you need reminding – we have the video below) Bill, however, decides to tempt fate with a mighty swing, only to send his ball flying into the water and literally soaking himself in the process.

Jerry: “Bill, that was quite the water ballet you just performed!” Bill (drenched): “Well, I thought it was time to take the ‘splash’ shot to a whole new level!” Here is the video Tom took of Bill – valiant effort old chap…

Lost in the Rough: Navigating the thick stuff is never easy, and our golfers soon find themselves in a maze of USGA-style tall grass and lost golf balls. Their futile attempts to find their way back to the fairway become a comedy of errors, with exaggerated gestures and absurd claims of spotting elusive golf and pop culture legends hidden in the shrubbery.

Bill: “I swear, I just saw Bigfoot caddying for Elvis in there!” Tom: “Boys, I think we’ve officially entered the Bermuda Triangle of golf courses.”

CONCLUSION

As the sun begins to set, our fearsome foursome finally makes their way back to the clubhouse. Despite the countless mishaps, a soaked Bill, and belly-busting laughter-inducing moments, they realize that their expedition was not about skill or score at all. It was about the camaraderie and the shared joy of experiencing life’s absurdities together. Also about the 6 shots of fireball they each had on the front 9. That will leave a mark, buy hey – at least they have all Sunday to recover.

MORAL OF THE STORY

So, the next time you find yourself on the golf course with a group of friends, remember to embrace the unexpected, laugh at your misfortunes, don’t be afraid to get a little wet and savor the moments that turn a regular Saturday afternoon into an unforgettable comedy of errors. In simpler terms…Make a memory!

As our four friends bid adieu to the golf course, they couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s events at the 19th hole.

Jerry: “Well, boys, that was certainly a round we’ll never forget.” Bill: “Indeed! Let’s raise our clubs to the unpredictable nature of golf and the laughter it brings.” Tom: “And to doing it again, I mean like literally all of it, next week! Cheers boys. Oh yeah, one last thing…ahh Bill, how’s the pond water taste my friend? Tom laughs, but the rest know Billy Boy has a few tricks of his own up his sleeve, so they just sit back and wait for the real show to begin.

Bill smiles and looks at the others for approval. They all knew what was coming and each one nodded as to say – its a go…he earned it! Bill then promptly flags down the waitress, and says – Would you believe it – our Tommy boy right here hit a hole-in-one today and would like to buy the whole bar a round. The waitress excited at the prospect of getting a huge tip – stands up on the bar, loudly rings the bell, and says – “Excuse me, we had an ace on the course today and he would like to buy you all a drink!” The bar erupts in cheers. Tom, locks eyes with Bill and says- “Well Played Bagger Vance… I will get you back for this.”

So in honor of their little family feud and Tom’s $1100 bar tab, we decided to close out this tale of tragedy and triumph as we humbly present to you – The actual footage of the water shot – Bills drenching if you will – Happy Monday – Hit ’em straight…and remember the worst day on the course is better than the best day in the office.

Blog

Scheffler vs. DeChambeau: A Tale of Two Golf Giants

A Clash of Styles in Modern Golf

Published

3 days ago

May 6, 2025

Bobby Markowitz

In the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few rivalries capture the contrast of style and substance like Scottie Scheffler versus Bryson DeChambeau. While both have claimed massive wins and global headlines, their paths to success and how they play the game couldn’t be more different. Here’s a deep dive into their strengths, weaknesses, career highlights, and what makes each stand out in today’s competitive landscape.

Backgrounds and Styles

Scottie Scheffler
The Dallas-born Scheffler embodies a classic, workmanlike approach to golf. Known for his calm demeanor, efficient swing, and remarkable consistency, Scheffler has risen to the top of the world rankings with little flash but elite-level substance. His game is built on balance, precision, and one of the most reliable tee-to-green performances the sport has seen in years.

Bryson DeChambeau
Nicknamed “The Scientist,” DeChambeau has taken an analytical and experimental approach to the game. He’s redefined physical fitness in golf, adding serious bulk to increase driving distance. Known for using single-length irons and obsessing over launch angles and biomechanics, Bryson is a true disruptor. His aggressive style polarizes fans and analysts, but it undeniably commands attention.

Strengths

Scheffler

Tee-to-Green Excellence: Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained tee-to-green.
Consistency: Rarely misses cuts and often finishes in the top 10.
Short Game: Exceptional touch and creativity around the greens.
Mental Game: Composed under pressure; rarely rattled.

DeChambeau

Driving Distance: One of the longest hitters in the game; regularly over 320 yards.
Innovation: Willing to take unconventional approaches for marginal gains.
Power Play: Dominates par 5s and shortens long courses with his length.
Confidence: Self-belief and boldness to attempt shots most won’t.

Weaknesses

Scheffler

Putting: Historically his weakest stat, though he’s shown improvement.
Media Presence: More reserved; lacks the big personality that moves the needle for fans and brands.

DeChambeau

Inconsistency: Can be volatile—either dominating or struggling.
Course Management: Aggressiveness sometimes leads to trouble.
Injury Risk: His physical transformation has come with some health setbacks.

Biggest Wins

Scottie Scheffler

The Masters (2022)
The Players Championship (2023)
Multiple WGC and Signature Events
As of 2025, Scheffler has claimed over 10 PGA Tour titles and continues to rack up top finishes in majors and elite events.

Bryson DeChambeau

U.S. Open (2020)
Arnold Palmer Invitational (2021)
Multiple LIV Golf Wins
DeChambeau made headlines by joining LIV Golf, where he’s claimed multiple high-stakes victories, including a team championship and a dominant individual LIV win in 2023.

Career Earnings

Scheffler:
Over $50 million in PGA Tour earnings alone, with additional income from endorsements like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.

DeChambeau:
Estimated $60–$80 million, largely boosted by a reported $100+ million LIV Golf contract and additional prize money. His endorsements have shifted due to his controversial LIV move, but he remains a marketable figure.

Similarities

Both are U.S.-born and played collegiate golf (Scheffler at Texas, DeChambeau at SMU).

Each has reached the top 10 in the Official World Golf Ranking.

Both have won majors and represented the U.S. in Ryder Cups.

Each has shown a willingness to be different—Scheffler through quiet dominance, DeChambeau through outspoken innovation.

Key Differences

Trait	Scottie Scheffler	Bryson DeChambeau
Playing Style	Traditional, consistent	Aggressive, experimental
Physical Transformation	Minimal	Extreme (bulk and strength)
Equipment	Standard setup	Single-length irons
Public Persona	Reserved, grounded	Outspoken, controversial
Tour Affiliation	PGA Tour loyalist	LIV Golf convert

Final Thoughts

Scheffler and DeChambeau represent two archetypes in modern golf: one a quiet technician, the other a showman scientist. Whether you admire Scottie’s stoic efficiency or Bryson’s radical reinvention, both are changing the game in their own way. And in a sport where individuality meets performance, there’s room—and demand—for both.

Blog

Why Proper Club Fitting Is the Real Game Changer

Published

7 days ago

May 2, 2025

Resident PGA Pro

If you’ve ever walked off the 18th green thinking, “It’s not me, it’s the clubs,” well… you might be half right.

As a PGA Professional who’s watched thousands of swings—from scratch players to first-timers—I can tell you that one of the most overlooked keys to better golf is proper club fitting. Not just buying shiny new sticks off the rack, but taking the time to find clubs that are tailored to your swing.

You don’t need a Tour card to get Tour-level precision. Let’s talk about why club fitting matters, what it changes, and how it can truly transform your game from the tee box to the final putt.

The Myth of “Good Enough”

“I’m not good enough to be fit for clubs.”

That’s the most common thing I hear—and it’s completely backwards.

High-handicap golfers have even more to gain from club fitting than low-handicappers. Why? Because the equipment can help you fix ball flight, optimize distance, reduce mis-hits, and build confidence—all without having to reinvent your swing.

Off-the-rack clubs are designed to fit “average” specs. But no two golfers are the same. Length, lie angle, shaft flex, grip size—these all play a massive role in how the club interacts with your body and the ground.

What Happens in a Proper Club Fitting?

At its core, a fitting session is about matching the equipment to your natural swing—not forcing you to swing a certain way to fit the gear.

Here’s what a proper club fitting includes:

1. Interview & Swing Assessment

A certified fitter (or PGA pro like myself) will ask about your current set, ball flight tendencies, common misses, and goals. Then we’ll watch you hit some shots to get a baseline.

2. Launch Monitor Data

Using tools like TrackMan or Foresight, we’ll capture numbers like:

Ball speed
Launch angle
Spin rate
Club path and face angle
Carry distance and dispersion

These numbers don’t lie—and they tell us what to tweak.

3. Testing Head & Shaft Combinations

You’ll hit several combinations of club heads and shafts to find what gives you the best performance. One degree of loft or a different shaft flex can make a huge difference.

4. Dialing In Lie Angle & Length

Lie angle affects directional control—too upright, and you might pull shots left; too flat, and you’ll miss right. Club length affects control, consistency, and strike location.

5. Grip Size & Feel

Don’t underestimate this. A grip that’s too thick or too thin can alter your grip pressure and release pattern.

Real Results—Backed by Data

One of my students recently went through a full iron fitting. He was using clubs he bought off the rack 10 years ago. His miss was a push-fade, and he struggled with distance control.

After 90 minutes, a combination of slightly shorter shafts, softer flex, and two degrees more upright lie changed everything. His dispersion tightened by 40%, and he gained an average of 12 yards per club. More importantly—his confidence skyrocketed.

And it wasn’t just him. Across the board, golfers who get fitted:

Gain more consistent contact
Reduce directional misses
Improve distance gapping
Hit more greens in regulation
Score better, without changing their swing

The Mental Game Boost

Here’s a secret: it’s not just about numbers. Fitted clubs give you confidence. When you know the tool in your hand is built for you, you swing freer, commit more fully, and stop second-guessing every shot.

Confidence leads to better swings. Better swings lead to better results. It’s a cycle—and it starts with the right equipment.

What About Cost?

Yes, a proper fitting might cost $75–$150 depending on where you go. And yes, custom-fit clubs may be slightly more than what you’d pay at a big box store.

But if you’re already spending time and money on golf, wouldn’t you want to get the most out of it?

A one-time investment in fitting can save you years of frustration—and possibly hundreds spent chasing fixes that won’t work with ill-fitting clubs.

Look—I’ve given thousands of lessons in my career, and nothing changes a golfer’s outlook faster than finally swinging clubs that work with them, not against them.

Whether you’re a 5 handicap trying to fine-tune yardages or a 25 handicap tired of slicing your driver, a proper club fitting can absolutely be a game changer.

You don’t need a new swing—you just need the right tools.

So before you spend another dollar on swing gadgets or tip videos, find your local PGA professional or certified fitter and book a session. Your game (and your sanity) will thank you.

Want more ways to play better without starting over?
Visit ClickItGolf.com every week for practical golf improvement tips, equipment reviews, betting insights, and advice from golfers who live the game every day.

Blog

Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson

Rory McIlroy returns to the Zurich Classic with Shane Lowry as favorites, but in this unique team event, betting and fantasy success comes down to smart picks and hidden value—here’s how to play it.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 22, 2025

Kelly Hodgeson

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans returns this week, offering a unique team format that challenges both bettors and fantasy players alike. As someone who enjoys the thrill of wagering and the strategy of fantasy golf, I’ve taken a close look at this year’s field to provide insights that could help you make informed decisions.

Understanding the Format

The Zurich Classic is the PGA Tour’s only team event, featuring 80 two-man teams competing over four rounds:

Rounds 1 & 3: Best Ball (Four-Ball)
Rounds 2 & 4: Alternate Shot (Foursomes)

This format emphasizes team chemistry and strategy, making it distinct from traditional stroke play events.

Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry enter the tournament as favorites, with odds around +350 to +360 across various sportsbooks. Their victory last year and McIlroy’s recent Masters win contribute to their favored status.

Betting Consideration: While their form is impressive, the low odds may not offer substantial value. In team events with unpredictable dynamics, it’s often prudent to seek teams with higher potential returns.

Teams to Watch

Several pairings present intriguing opportunities:

Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge (+2200): Horschel’s history at TPC Louisiana, including a previous win, combined with Hoge’s recent top-20 finishes, make them a formidable duo.
Thomas Detry & Robert MacIntyre (+1800): This European pair has shown consistency, with Detry’s earlier victory this season and MacIntyre’s solid performances leading up to the Masters.
Patrick Fishburn & Zac Blair (+8000): As longshots, their fourth-place finish last year and recent form suggest they could surprise the field again.

Fantasy Golf Insights

For those setting fantasy lineups, consider the following:

Nick Taylor & Adam Hadwin: Their past success at TPC Louisiana, including a second-place finish in 2023, indicates strong course compatibility.
Davis Riley & Nick Hardy: Winners in 2023, their chemistry and experience in this format could translate into valuable fantasy points.
Alex & Matt Fitzpatrick: The Fitzpatrick brothers have shown steady improvement, with a T11 finish last year, making them a reliable mid-tier option.

Strategic Betting Tips

Value Over Favorites: In a format prone to variability, consider teams with odds of +1800 or higher that exhibit strong recent form and synergy.
Monitor Course History: Teams with a track record at TPC Louisiana may have an edge, especially in navigating the unique team dynamics.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather conditions and any last-minute team changes, as these can significantly impact performance.

As the tournament unfolds, the combination of strategic betting and informed fantasy selections can enhance your engagement with the Zurich Classic. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the unique challenges this team event presents.