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Collin Morikawa has Nerves of Steel

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Collin Morikawa has nerves of Steel

Collin Morikawa is a stone-cold killer. You wouldn’t know it from looking at him of course. Forget that he’s well spoken, polite and spouts wisdom beyond his years. Definitely ignore the 1.21-jiga-watt smile.

As if we needed any further confirmation that the winner of two majors before his 25th birthday — including the British Open in July — has that rare X-factor to go along with a deadly iron game, Morikawa answered what he learned about himself at the Ryder Cup.

“That I love being in that position,” he said. “I mean, I was more nervous on the Walker Cup tee shot, which is crazy to even think about, than my first Ryder Cup tee shot, which I don’t know if many people could say that, but I just loved being in that moment.”

Major winners and Hall of Famers have been shaken to the core at the first tee of Ryder Cups – see colleague Steve DiMeglio’s story if you haven’t already – but not Morikawa. This is the same guy who at the Ryder Cup turned to partner Dustin Johnson and said, “Let’s step on their necks.”

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Stone. Cold. Killer.

Morikawa also said he learned valuable lessons about himself that will help in future team competitions, majors and regular PGA Tour events, such as this week’s Zozo Championship in Chiba, Japan. Morikawa, who is of Japanese descent, is making his fifth trip to Japan dating to 2016, and fourth to play golf.

“I’ve pretty much come back once a year almost and it’s just getting better and better,” said Morikawa, who finished T-22 at the Zozo in 2019 and lost out in a playoff for the bronze medal at the Summer Olympics in August. That competition was played without fans, who will be a welcome addition to Morikawa this week.

“These are some of the best fans,” Morikawa said. “I was here earlier for the Olympics and we didn’t have anyone and it just felt dull. Even though it was the Olympics and we knew what we were playing for, it just, it has a different feeling when you have fans. I remember my first tee shot out here two years ago when there were fans on stools and lined up five, six people deep. They would cheer for you walking to tee boxes, hitting every tee shot whether it’s good or bad.”

Being back and Japan has been a very positive experience for the golfer. By far, one of his favorite things about being back has been indulging in his favorite Japanese cuisines.

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“All of it,” he said. “I think it’s the best. I can come out here and stay for a month, I wish, and just eat and I probably would not look the same coming back.”

Morikawa is even taking some of the up-and-coming golfers under his wing. Keith Nakajima is a top World amateur and was given some great advice by Morikawa. He told Nakajima to not rush and to take everything is stride. Morikawa knows that Nakajima will see success in the pros in no time.

Morikawa recorded his best result since winning the British Open at last week’s CJ Cup at The Summit, a runner-up finish to Rory McIlroy in Las Vegas. Morikawa overcame a slow start, shooting 17 under on the weekend, which included a final-round 62. With the wisdom of a Japanese sensei, Morikawa explained how sometimes the smallest adjustments can lead to the biggest results.

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“I tell myself when I’m playing bad, these are big lessons I want to learn from and make sure I don’t try and repeat them, but when I’m playing good, sometimes I forget what I did as well,” he said. “And it’s not as simple as just taking a swing video when you’re playing well and you can remember that. It’s just little things that sometimes you forget about them because you worry about something else or you’re trying to work on another part of your game, but it’s stick to your strengths and keep pushing those.”

Morikawa has taken the golf world by storm. He has shown us what he can do when the pressure is on and makes it look easy. One day, Morikawa aims to be able to travel the world and win tournaments. He is already starting on that dream with some upcoming stops overseas. It was just announced that Morikawa is in the field of competitors for Tiger Wood’s 2021 Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. He sees a lot more travel in his future.

 “You want your game to travel,” he said. “That’s why I’m a European Tour member, that’s why I play a lot or I try and play a lot in different places.”

And that, too, is what makes him a stone-cold killer.

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This article originally appeared on Golfweek.

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The Art of Golf Course Photography

Capturing a golf course’s essence involves conveying its beauty and tranquility through masterful photography techniques.

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Peter Gibb

Capturing the Beauty of the Game

Ahoy, shutterbug golfers! This week, we’re diving into the enchanting world of golf course photography – because what better way to preserve the magic of the game than through the lens of a camera?

Check out the work by Peter Gibb he takes to the sky and photographs some iconic golf holes and then paints them on these beautiful canvases. Perhaps his style will inspire you as you capture your own images.

Peter Gibb
Art by Peter Gibb

So grab your cameras, polish your lenses, and let’s explore the art of capturing the beauty of the game:

1. Seek out Stunning Vistas: Every golf course has its own unique beauty waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s a breathtaking ocean view, a majestic mountain backdrop, or a lush green fairway stretching into the horizon, seek out stunning vistas that showcase the natural splendor of the course.

2. Embrace Golden Hour: The golden hour – that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset – is a photographer’s best friend. The soft, warm light bathes the landscape in a golden glow, casting long shadows and creating dramatic contrasts. Embrace the golden hour to capture your golf course in all its radiant glory.

3. Focus on Details: While sweeping landscapes are certainly breathtaking, don’t overlook the smaller details that make each golf course unique. Whether it’s the intricate design of a bunker, the delicate petals of a flower, or the serene reflection of a pond, focus on capturing the finer details that add depth and character to the scene.

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4. Experiment with Perspectives: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your compositions and perspectives. Experiment with different angles, vantage points, and framing techniques to add visual interest and depth to your photos. Whether you’re shooting from ground level, aerial drones, or even underwater, the possibilities are endless.

5. Tell a Story: Finally, use your golf course photos to tell a story – not just of the game, but of the experience and emotions it evokes. Whether it’s the joy of sinking a putt, the frustration of hitting into a hazard, or the camaraderie of playing with friends, let your photos capture the essence of the golfing experience in all its glory.

So there you have it, fellow photographers – the art of golf course photography in all its majestic splendor. Whether you’re seeking out stunning vistas, embracing golden hour light, focusing on details, experimenting with perspectives, or telling a captivating story, let your camera be your guide as you capture the beauty of the game for all to see. And if you are just interested in a wonderful piece of art reach out to Peter Gibb.

Until next time, may your shots be as sharp as your focus, your compositions be as flawless as your swings, and your photos be a window into the soul of golf. Snap on, my fellow shutterbugs!

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Golf’s Grand Stages: Iconic Tournaments and Their Impact

The game’s greatest events.

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Majestic events for some of golf’s elite

Hello, golf enthusiasts,

As we extend our series “Tales from the Greens: Chronicles of Golf Through the Ages,” today we shift our focus from players and equipment to the grand stages themselves—the tournaments that have defined competitive golf. These events are not just competitions; they are cultural phenomena that have shaped the sport and its global following. Let’s explore some of the most iconic golf tournaments and their profound impact on the sport.

The Masters: A Tradition Unlike Any Other

Held annually at Augusta National Golf Club, The Masters is synonymous with tradition and prestige. Founded by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in 1934, this tournament is known for its green jacket, a coveted prize that symbolizes excellence and membership in golf’s most exclusive club. The Masters has been a stage for some of golf’s greatest moments, from Jack Nicklaus’ historic win in 1986 at the age of 46 to Tiger Woods’ dramatic comeback in 2019.

The Open Championship: Golf’s Oldest Major

Commonly referred to as The British Open, The Open Championship is the oldest of golf’s four major tournaments, first played in 1860. It is conducted annually on the links courses around Scotland and England, presenting a unique challenge with its unpredictable weather and rugged landscapes. The Claret Jug, awarded to the champion, is one of the most recognized trophies in all of sports.

The U.S. Open: Ultimate Test of Golf

The U.S. Open is renowned for its rigorous setup, which aims to test the limits of players’ skills and mental toughness. Conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA), this tournament is played at various locations across the United States and is known for its narrow fairways, thick rough, and fast greens. Winning the U.S. Open is a testament to a golfer’s precision and perseverance.

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The PGA Championship: A Showcase of Talent

The PGA Championship, conducted by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, is where golf’s best professionals vie for the Wanamaker Trophy. This tournament is distinct for often being held at parkland courses across the U.S., featuring lush fairways and challenging greens. It’s a test of both skill and strategic play, often bringing out the best performances from the world’s top golfers.

These tournaments are more than just annual sporting events; they are a celebration of golf’s rich history and a showcase of its evolving future. Each tournament brings its unique flavor and set of challenges, contributing significantly to the legacy and popularity of the sport worldwide.

Join me next time as we explore golf’s role in fostering international camaraderie and sportsmanship.

Thank you for following along.

Warm regards,
Robert Greenfield

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The Joy of Golfing with Friends

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Building Bonds on the Fairway

Ahoy, golfing companions! This week, we’re celebrating the unparalleled joy of teeing off with friends – because as any golfer knows, there’s nothing quite like sharing the fairway with your favorite playing partners. So gather your crew, dust off your clubs, and let’s explore the magic of golfing with friends:

1. Shared Laughter, Shared Memories: Golfing with friends isn’t just about hitting the ball – it’s about sharing laughs, swapping stories, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re reminiscing about past rounds, joking about missed putts, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the camaraderie of the game is what makes it truly special.

2. Support and Encouragement: One of the greatest benefits of golfing with friends is the support and encouragement they provide. From cheering you on after a great shot to offering words of wisdom when you’re struggling, your playing partners are there to lift you up and help you stay positive, no matter what challenges the course throws your way.

3. Friendly Competition: While golf is ultimately a game against the course, there’s no denying the thrill of a little friendly competition among friends. Whether you’re competing for bragging rights, playing for a friendly wager, or simply trying to outdo each other on the scorecard, the spirit of competition adds an extra layer of excitement to every round.

4. Strengthening Bonds: Golfing with friends isn’t just about the game – it’s about strengthening bonds and deepening friendships. The shared experiences, inside jokes, and moments of triumph and defeat on the course all serve to bring you closer together, forging bonds that are as strong as steel.

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5. Lifelong Companionship: Finally, golfing with friends is about more than just the present moment – it’s about building lifelong companionship that extends far beyond the fairway. Whether you’re celebrating victories, commiserating over defeats, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the friendships forged on the golf course are ones that will endure for years to come.

So there you have it, fellow golfing comrades – the joy of golfing with friends in all its glorious splendor. Whether you’re sharing laughs, supporting each other through the ups and downs, or strengthening bonds that last a lifetime, there’s nothing quite like hitting the links with your favorite playing partners by your side. Until next time, may your rounds be filled with friendship, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Friends on, my fellow golfers!

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