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In Full Swing: A Comeback May Be Closer Than We Think

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In Full Swing: Tiger's New Video

First, some backstory.

In 2015, Tiger Woods arrived at the Hero World Challenge an injured man. It was the first time his event would be held at Albany in the Bahamas, but the tournament host — just a few weeks from turning 40 — was coming off surgeries and nowhere close to competition-ready. Instead he spent the week monitoring the action from a golf cart and delivered an honest and decidedly bleak state of affairs in his press conference.

“The hardest part for me is there’s really nothing I can look forward to, nothing I can build toward,” Woods said. “There is no timetable,” he added.

I mentioned that year’s presser to Rory McIlroy on Tuesday of this year’s Hero World Challenge, and he recited Woods’ takeaway quote word for word.

“I think everything beyond this will be gravy,” he recalled Woods saying six years earlier.

The Washington Post headline said it all: Tiger Woods’s latest press conference is a masterclass in sadness

Yikes.

The Hero World Challenge has served as the site of both promise and misery for Woods. A year after that doomsday presser he made his competitive return for four rounds at Albany. Tiger fans found comfort in the fact that Woods walked 72 holes. He even led the field in birdies! But he mixed in a slew of double bogeys, too, and finished in 15th out of 18. The comeback stalled just months later. He wouldn’t play 72 holes again for 12 months.

But when he did reappear in 2017, Woods did so at the Hero again. He worked his way into contention at the halfway mark, played his way out of contention with a Saturday 75 and finished the week T9 — with plenty to build on.

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You know what happened next: The Comeback. Woods’ competitive year in 2018, including a Tour Championship win. His Masters (and Zozo) in 2019. Woods climbed as high as No. 6 in the world. He somehow reentered the conversation for world’s best active golfer.

So it’s only fitting that now, in 2021, this is where Woods is staging the latest chapter in his comeback. First he made his return to the public eye at Tuesday’s presser — a savvy place to do so because Woods is in a controlled environment with a small press corps, there are limited fans, he can draw extra attention to his tournament and foundation and it doesn’t hurt that he’s generally in charge of everything.

Still, in Tuesday’s remarks Woods downplayed any immediate return to competitive golf.

“I’ll put it to you this way: As far as playing at the Tour level, I don’t know when that’s going to happen,” he said. He was self-deprecating about his swing speed, said he’d been playing from the forward tees and seemed intent on lowering expectations.

But Albany has two ends to its range. The side nearer the clubhouse is where most of the action happens; that’s where this week’s players and pro-am competitors get loose. And on Wednesday a figure in white and grey appeared on the back of the range, warming up a familiar swing.

Take this next bit with a grain of salt, because it’s not like Woods was hitting in his home simulator and someone snuck a photo. I’m sure he knew there was a good chance he’d be spotted.

Still, unlike Woods’ swing video from last Sunday, this version wasn’t staged. A Tour staffer noticed Woods and pressed record because why not. Later, Team Tiger gave the okay to release the tapes. And so there we were at 8:26 p.m. EST, watching Woods rip 3-woods down the range. Word spread fast.

The 23-second video tells us plenty. The simple fact that he is insisting on practicing this week suggests he lacks neither a plan nor determination. The camera angle is a reminder that Woods didn’t know he was being filmed. The wedges and driver leaning on the cart suggest a through-the-bag session. And the speed with which he’s swinging is evidence that he’s moving quite well — and that he still hasn’t kicked the habit of telling the public half-truths (at best) when it comes to his health.

For Woods fans, it’s all good news. But with Woods, good news can never be enough on its own. In this case it’s accompanied by a side of, “When is he going to play?” Speculation was already running wild before the video that Woods (and his son Charlie) would tee it up at the PNC Championship. Tiger Insider Notah Begay implied on Golf Channel that the PNC was a possibility, especially given Charlie could take care of most tee shots in the format. Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis suggested more of the same. Despite Woods’ low-expectations presser, he had left the door ajar for a “hit-and-giggle” appearance in the nearer future. And there was Eamon Lynch’s Golfweek report stating the tournament was holding a spot for the team of Woods/Woods.

Woods is hardly Tour-ready. Nobody is suggesting that. He still took frequent breaks in his golf cart between swing sessions on Wednesday, sitting and resting in the Bahamian sunshine. But what’s striking is that we’ve seen him in worse health at this very tournament. And while his playing the PNC is certainly no lock, it’s clear he has future competitive golf on the mind.

Woods’ young peers were effusive.

“Look, whether he plays out on Tour full time or not, he’s still Tiger and he brings so much energy and life,” said Collin Morikawa, Woods’ most recently-crowned heir apparent.

“I think he said yesterday [a limited schedule] that he feels like he can get himself ready for. I mean, it’s smart, it’s smart to do that,” said McIlroy, providing some realistic optimism.

But Xander Schauffele put it best.

“I just saw him yesterday and I told him he’s the most stubborn person that I know,” Schauffele said. “And that he’s trying to — you know, basically he’s using this situation as motivation to try and come back and win and be that guy because he’s always been that guy.”

Now we wait and see.

This article originally appeared on Golf.com.

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When Golf Meets Supercars: The World Series of Golf Takes Over Skip Barber’s Mexico Resort

World Series of Golf partners with Skip Barber Racing for a two-year luxury sports series at Gran Reserva, Mexico – where championship golf meets supercars starting April 2026.

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Picture this. You’re standing on the 18th green at Gran Reserva, Mexico, finishing a round of championship golf with the World Series of Golf’s signature betting format still buzzing in your veins. The sun’s dropping low. Your heart’s still racing from that final putt.

And tomorrow? You’re driving a McLaren on Skip Barber’s brand-new racetrack.

Two Sports, One Unforgettable Weekend

The World Series of Golf just announced something we’ve never seen before. A two-year partnership with Skip Barber Racing School that transforms their new Mexican resort into the ultimate luxury sports destination. It’s not just golf. It’s not just racing. It’s both, wrapped into an experience that redefines what a sporting weekend can be.

Starting in April 2026, Gran Reserva becomes ground zero for a completely new kind of event.

Year One: The Foundation

The first year lays the groundwork. You’ll compete in the World Series of Golf championship using their patented tournament format – the one that adds poker-style betting mechanics to traditional stroke play and turns every hole into a strategic showdown. High stakes. Real tension. Golf the way it was meant to be played.

But here’s where it gets interesting. While you’re playing, Skip Barber’s building their racetrack right there on the property. You’ll see construction crews working on what will become one of North America’s most anticipated racing circuits. State-of-the-art simulators give you a taste of what’s coming, letting you experience the thrill of motorsports between rounds.

VIP receptions. Celebrity appearances. Curated culinary showcases that match the caliber of the competition. It’s an invitation-only event designed for people who expect excellence and aren’t willing to settle for anything less.

Year Two: The Payoff

Then 2027 hits. The track is finished. And suddenly you’re not just imagining what it’s like to drive a supercar at speed – you’re actually doing it.

McLaren. Ferrari. Mercedes. Lamborghini. Take your pick and put it through its paces on a circuit designed by people who’ve spent over 50 years teaching professional racers how to extract every ounce of performance from a machine. Skip Barber doesn’t mess around when it comes to motorsports education, and this track reflects that pedigree.

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You’ll stay in exclusive luxury accommodations at Gran Reserva, network with athletes and industry leaders, and experience both golf and racing at the highest possible level. All in one place. All in one unforgettable weekend.

Why This Matters

Michael Berg, CFO of Skip Barber Racing School, called it perfectly: “Guests will see the racetrack under construction during our first event and then drive world-class vehicles on it the following year.”

That’s the hook. You’re not just attending an event. You’re watching it evolve. You’re part of the story from day one, and by year two, you’re living the payoff.

Robert Davidman, CEO of the World Series of Golf, added this: “This partnership unites golf and motorsports in an elevated format that caters to international fans seeking competition, luxury, and adventure.”

Competition. Luxury. Adventure. Three words that sum up what makes this special.

Why Sponsors Are Paying Attention

Here’s what makes this different from every other golf tournament trying to get your marketing dollars.

The World Series of Golf’s patent-protected format keeps spectators glued to every shot. Shot-by-shot wagering. Antes that double every three holes. Strategic decisions that matter as much as swing mechanics. It’s golf designed for television, and television designed to keep people watching.

Add Skip Barber Racing to the mix and you’ve got something networks actually want to cover. Over 40 hours of TV coverage. More than 15 million media impressions. Five million-plus social media reach. This isn’t a local tournament hoping for some local news pickup. This is a broadcast-ready event with an audience that’s already paying attention.

The demographics tell the rest of the story. You’re reaching affluent golf enthusiasts who also appreciate high-performance automobiles. International travelers who think nothing of flying to Mexico for a weekend of luxury sports. Decision-makers and industry leaders who network at VIP receptions and actually have the authority to sign deals on the spot.

Title sponsorship gets you naming rights, eight playing positions, and premium TV exposure throughout the broadcast. But even smaller packages deliver value. Hole sponsors get exclusive on-course branding and social media mentions for ten grand. Golf cart wraps guarantee TV and photo exposure because every shot of the tournament includes your brand.

The opportunities are limited by design. Only 18 hole sponsors. Three presenting sponsors. One title sponsor. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Want the details? Check out the full sponsorship packages at wsg.golf/sponsorship.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t your typical golf tournament. It’s not your standard track day either. It’s something entirely new – a two-year luxury sports series that gives you the best of both worlds and raises the bar for what a sporting experience can deliver.

Year one plants the seed. Year two delivers the harvest. And whether you’re attending as a player or partnering as a sponsor, you’ll be there for both.

For player inquiries, contact events@skipbarber.com. For sponsorship opportunities, reach out to sponsorship@wsg.golf. These events are strictly invitation-only, and opportunities won’t last long.

Golf and supercars. Mexico and motorsports. The World Series of Golf and Skip Barber Racing School.

This is going to be something special.

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Empowering the Next Generation: The Impact of Youth Golf Programs on Shaping Future Golfing Stars

As we tee off into the 21st century, golf, the age-old sport of precision and patience, is witnessing a remarkable transformation.

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The Rise of Youth Programs: Unleashing the Potential of Next-Gen Golfers

As we tee off into the 21st century, golf, the age-old sport of precision and patience, is witnessing a remarkable transformation. The sport, once considered a domain of the mature and affluent, is now attracting a younger demographic like never before. The driving force behind this shift? The rise of youth golf programs.

These youth-oriented initiatives are not only making golf more accessible to younger generations but are also nurturing the next wave of golf superstars. So, grab your clubs, and let’s explore how these programs are changing the face of golf and paving the way for next-gen golfers to take center stage.

The Emergence of Youth Golf Programs

In the past, golf was often perceived as a sport for the elite, with limited opportunities for young players to learn and develop their skills. However, the landscape has dramatically changed in recent years, thanks to the emergence of youth golf programs.

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These programs are designed to introduce children and teenagers to the sport, provide them with necessary training, and help them develop their skills. From local clubs offering golf lessons for kids to national organizations like The First Tee and PGA Junior League, these initiatives are making golf more accessible to younger generations.

The Impact of Youth Programs on the Golf Industry
Source: avasant.com

The Impact of Youth Programs on the Golf Industry

Youth golf programs have had a profound impact on the golf industry, contributing to its growth and diversification. Here’s how:

    1. Increasing Participation: Youth programs have significantly boosted golf participation rates among young people. According to the National Golf Foundation, more than 2.5 million kids aged 6-17 played golf on a course in 2019, a 20% increase from 2011.
    2. Creating Diversity: Youth programs are also making golf more diverse. They are reaching out to children from different socio-economic backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to learn and play golf.
    3. Developing Talent: These programs are proving to be a breeding ground for future professionals. Young golfers like Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, and Lexi Thompson, who were part of youth programs, have gone on to make their mark in the professional arena.
    4. How Youth Programs are Nurturing Next-Gen Golfers

      Youth golf programs are making significant strides in nurturing the next generation of golfers. Here’s how:

    5. Skill Development: These programs provide kids with comprehensive golf training, helping them develop technical skills like swing mechanics, putting, chipping, and bunker play. They also focus on strategic aspects like course management and decision making.
    6. Character Building: Golf is not just about technique; it’s also about character. Youth programs emphasize life skills such as honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, and perseverance – values that are integral to golf and life in general.
    7. Competitive Exposure: Youth programs also provide young golfers with competitive exposure through tournaments and leagues. This exposure helps them understand the competitive nature of the sport, learn to handle pressure, and develop a winning mentality.
The Bright Future of Youth Golf
Source: wucardinals.com

The Bright Future of Youth Golf

The rise of youth golf programs has set the stage for a promising future. As more and more young people take up the sport, we can expect to see a new generation of golfers who are not only technically sound but also carry the values and spirit of the game.

Moreover, the increasing participation of young golfers is likely to infuse fresh energy and excitement into the sport, making it more appealing to spectators and sponsors alike.

In conclusion, the rise of youth golf programs is a game-changer. It’s not just about creating a new generation of golfers; it’s about shaping the future of golf itself. So, whether you’re a parent, a young golfer, or a golf enthusiast, it’s time to embrace these programs and support the next generation in their journey towards golfing excellence.

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Unveiling the Mystique: The Enigmatic World of Secret Golf Societies

The Secret Golf Societies: Uncovering the Game’s Hidden ClubsGolf, often viewed as a gentleman’s sport, has a fascinating and sometimes mysterious allure. Beyond the lush greens and meticulously maintained courses lie secret societies, cloaked in tradition and exclusivity. These hidden clubs, often within golf’s highest echelons, have a captivating allure, creating an enigma that both…

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The Secret Golf Societies: Uncovering the Game’s Hidden Clubs

Golf, often viewed as a gentleman’s sport, has a fascinating and sometimes mysterious allure. Beyond the lush greens and meticulously maintained courses lie secret societies, cloaked in tradition and exclusivity. These hidden clubs, often within golf’s highest echelons, have a captivating allure, creating an enigma that both charms and perplexes the sport’s enthusiasts. So, let’s delve into the enticing world of secret golf societies and uncover the game’s concealed clubs.

The Intrigue of Secret Golf Societies

The allure of secret societies is not a new phenomenon. The idea of a select group, privy to certain exclusive information and practices, has fascinated people for centuries. In golf, this fascination extends to secret golf societies, clubs within clubs that only welcome the select few.

These secret societies often have their own rules, traditions, and rituals, all of which contribute to their mystique. They are not your regular golf clubs; they are societies that cherish tradition, exclusivity, and most importantly, the love for the game.

Unveiling the Augusta National Golf Club

Perhaps the most famous “secret” golf society is the Augusta National Golf Club. With its Magnolia Lane entrance and green jacket tradition, the Augusta National is more than just the home of The Masters. It’s a private club steeped in tradition, where membership is by invitation only.

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The club was founded by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in 1932. Its exclusivity is legendary; the membership list is kept secret, and it’s reported that there are less than 300 members at any one time. The club didn’t admit its first black member until 1990 or its first female member until 2012. While its historical policies have often been controversial, the Augusta National’s allure remains undiminished.

The Ancient and Royal Golf Club

In Scotland, the birthplace of golf, lies the Ancient and Royal Golf Club of St. Andrews. This club, founded in 1754, holds the distinction of being the oldest golf society in the world. The members of this club are known to play by the original 13 rules of golf, enhancing its historical appeal.

The Outpost Club

The Outpost Club is a more modern addition to the list of secret golf societies. Founded in 2011, it’s a national golf society based in the United States. They don’t own any golf courses; instead, they organize events at various courses around the country. Membership is by invitation only, and the club’s emphasis is on camaraderie and enjoying the game in its purest form.

The Seminole Pro-Member

Often considered one of America’s most exclusive golf societies, the Seminole Pro-Member is a yearly tournament that combines amateur golfers with professional players. The tournament, held at the Seminole Golf Club in Florida, is renowned for its exclusivity. The list of past participants reads like a who’s who of golf, including legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

Why the Secrecy?

The question arises – why the secrecy? Why are these clubs so exclusive? The answer lies in the traditions of the game. Golf is a sport steeped in history and tradition. The exclusivity and secrecy of these societies preserve the traditions of the game, passing them on to future generations.

Moreover, the exclusivity also provides a unique golfing experience. The meticulously maintained courses, the camaraderie among members, and the opportunity to play the game in its purest form – these factors contribute to the allure of these secret societies.

In Conclusion

Secret golf societies, with their exclusivity and rich traditions, add a layer of intrigue to the game of golf. They preserve the sport’s history, uphold its traditions, and provide an unparalleled golfing experience. While they may be shrouded in mystery, their contribution to the game is undeniable. Whether it’s the Augusta National Golf Club, the Ancient and Royal Golf Club, or the Outpost Club, these societies embody the spirit of golf. They remind us that golf is more than just a sport. It’s a tradition, a lifestyle, and for many, a passion.

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