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Local San Diego Teaching Pro in the Mix at the 2023 PGA

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Michael Block — golf’s common man who is still holding his own against the world’s top players at the PGA Championship this week — plugged his ears and shook his head, making a point of not wanting to hear how big his payday might be if he finishes among the top 10.

“Nope…Nope – I don’t want to hear it,” Block, the club professional out of Southern California, said Saturday. He revealed the largest paycheck he’s ever won from playing golf was $75,000, at the 2014 Club Professional National Championship at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Sufficed to say he will shatter that record in the next 24 hours!

“I don’t focus on what I might make or could make or anything like that. I pretty much am putting my head down,” he added after staying in contention with his third consecutive even-par 70 that has him tied for eighth at Oak Hill.

The mere fact the 46-year-old was paired with Justin Rose for the tournament’s third round was intimidating enough, Block refused to look at his playing partner’s face through the first few holes. Now get this, welcome to the show my main man, On Sunday, you will be paired with Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion. His reaction was timeless [watch below ???] – That’s just how he rolls.

“You serious?” “Wow. That should be fun. We’ll have a good time,” he continued before adding, “Wait…Really?”

That’s what makes him so likable – his authenticity! He is the type of guy who orders chicken wings between lessons at Royal Trabuco – his home course in Mission Viejo, CA. I can personally verify – he passes the airport test. If you were stuck on a layover in a strange airport he is exactly the kind of guy you would want to sit next to at the bar!

Try as he can, Block is unable to block (see what I did there) out all the hype he’s generating around the golf course, on social media and television, where he appeared to be a natural conducting a live interview with broadcasters Jim Nantz and Scott Van Pelt in between shots. He was cool as the other side of a pillow today while Mic’d up and firing shots like a seasoned veteran.

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“It’s just been awesome. Scott came up to me right before I was teeing off today and expressed how much he enjoyed the interview I had with him on 14 the other day,” Block said. “And I looked at my caddie and my friend, and I’m like, ‘This is ridiculous. I don’t even know what I’m doing.’”

Mike is making everything look relatively easy both on and off the course. On Saturday, he overcame a double bogey on the par-4 sixth and finished with three birdies and a bogey on the back nine. It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish!

Though he might seem out of his element, Block doesn’t lack confidence while competing in his seventh major. Fun Fact – This is the first in which he’s made the cut.

PAIRINGS

“I love Rosey, but I am not scared, I can compete against these guys, to be honest,” he added, referring to Rory. “I can hang. I can post a 3- or 4-under tomorrow, especially if I get the fairways rolling again.”

No matter the outcome on Sunday, Block has made it a point to enjoy every moment.

“Before you know it, you’re 60 years old and retired, and look back at the videos and remember that was the best week of my life,” Block said. “So I’m going to sit back as much as I can with my friends and my family at the house we rented and watch the videos tonight and see all my new followers on Instagram. It’s been crazy.” “I am like famous now…well kinda”

PRIZE PURSE

The winner of the PGA Championship will receive $3.15 million. Read that again! 3.15 Million Dollars.

The PGA of America said Saturday its prize fund is $17.5 million. That’s up from $15 million last year. The winner gets $500,000 less than Masters champion Jon Rahm earned last month.

The purses in the majors have been steadily increasing, though not at the rate of the PGA Tour, which this year has 11 tournaments with $20 million or more in prize money. The individual winner at each LIV Golf event gets $4 million from a $20 million purse.

Editors Note: He is a local icon and a personal friend… I asked him what he was going to do tonight. His response was exactly what I expected. ” Well Jaybo, a lil food, a little booze, then try to sleep and not stare at the wall all night”. You know me bro – I am just going to try to play like it’s a 4 ball with the boys at home.

“Bottom line, this is life-changing money, my man – dinner is on me next time we go out”

I am guessing all of So-Cal is rooting for our hometown boy! In the famous words of another Michael – “JUST DO IT”!

Oh and by the way my man, I am ordering the most expensive thing on the menu when we go out to dinner to celebrate! Go Get em Blocky! We got you.

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5 Pristine Public Courses To Start Your Florida Tour!

Warm up on these pristine public courses in the Sunshine State.

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Florida is a favorite among golf lovers with 1,154 courses and 101 sunny days each year. The state also boasts the most rounds played, the most new courses opened, and the most courses under construction or in planning.

Several of its major cities offer top-notch golf experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best public golf courses in Florida:

Orlando

Orange County National Golf Center
Features two championship courses, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, and a 9-hole short course called “The Tooth.” Renowned for its exceptional practice facilities and hosting the PGA Merchandise Show Demo Day.

Tampa

Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort
This Larry Packard-designed course is a favorite among PGA Tour players, known for its challenging layout and natural beauty. It hosts the Valspar Championship annually.

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Naples

Old Corkscrew Golf Club
A Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course, it offers a scenic and challenging experience with firm greens and abundant wildlife. It consistently ranks among Florida’s top public courses.

Miami

Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne: Located just 10 minutes from downtown Miami, this unique public course offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It features challenging bunkering, mangrove thickets, and seven saltwater lakes.

Port St. Lucie

PGA Golf Club: Located in Port St. Lucie, about an hour north of West Palm Beach, this club offers three distinct 18-hole courses: the Dye, Ryder, and Wanamaker. It will host the 2025 PGA Professional Championship.

Why Play Florida?

Diverse and Exceptional Courses

Iconic Venues: Florida boasts several legendary golf courses that offer unforgettable experiences:

    Unique Course Characteristics

    Varied Landscapes: Florida golf courses offer remarkable diversity:

    • Links-style experiences
    • Coastal views with ocean breezes
    • Courses with dramatic elevation changes
    • Layouts featuring water hazards, strategic bunkers, and challenging greens

    World-Class Amenities

    Most top Florida courses provide:

    • Luxury resort accommodations
    • Professional-level practice facilities
    • Top-tier caddies and service
    • Stunning natural scenery

    Pro Tip: Bring your best game and be prepared for challenging, memorable golf experiences across Florida’s diverse courses.

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    10 Golf Podcasts For Hackers To Download

    Tips, Stories, and Entertainment

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    For amateur golfers seeking to enhance their game, stay updated on golf news, or simply enjoy engaging discussions, podcasts offer a convenient and informative medium. Based on recommendations from reputable sources and golf communities, here are some top golf podcasts tailored for non-professional enthusiasts:

    Hosted by CBS commentator Mark Immelman, this podcast features weekly interviews with instructors, coaches, players, and other golf experts. With over 700 episodes, it provides in-depth discussions aimed at helping golfers improve their skills.

    A favorite among golf enthusiasts, No Laying Up offers a mix of tour coverage, player interviews, and discussions on various golf topics. It’s known for its insightful commentary and engaging content.

    Featuring European Tour player Eddie Pepperell, this podcast provides a blend of tour insights and personal experiences, offering listeners a unique perspective on the professional golf scene.

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    This podcast chronicles the journey of two amateur golfers striving to achieve a scratch handicap. It’s relatable for many non-professional players and offers both entertainment and insights into the challenges of improving one’s game.

    Hosted by golf coach Mark Crossfield, this podcast delves into various aspects of the game, from equipment reviews to swing techniques, providing practical advice for amateur golfers.

    Hosted by Rick Shiels, a former golf teaching professional from Bolton, this podcast covers a wide range of topics, including equipment reviews, interviews with golf personalities, and discussions on current events in the golf world.

    Hosted by popular golfer Andrew “Beef” Johnston and comedian John Robins, this podcast offers a light-hearted take on the game, discussing various golf topics and sharing personal anecdotes.

    This podcast explores the highs and lows of being a golf enthusiast, sharing stories and experiences that many amateur golfers can relate to.

    Featuring instructors Mark Crossfield, Greg Chalmers, and Lou Stagner, this podcast discusses various aspects of the game, offering insights and tips to help golfers improve.

    Hosted by Peter Finch, this podcast features discussions with various guests, covering a wide range of golf-related topics, from equipment to personal experiences.

    These podcasts offer a variety of content tailored to amateur golfers, from instructional advice to entertaining discussions. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy golf-related conversations, there’s likely a podcast on this list that suits your interests.

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    Unique Football & Golf Parlays For The Weekend!

    Have fun with Super Bowl and WM Phoenix Open combo bets!

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    As the excitement builds for Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles on February 9, 2025, in New Orleans, and the WM Phoenix Open taking place from February 6-9 at TPC Scottsdale, sports enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to combine their passion for football and golf through parlay betting.

    Super Bowl LIX Betting Lines

    As of February 7, 2025, the betting lines for Super Bowl LIX are as follows:

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    • Point Spread: The Kansas City Chiefs are favored by 1.5 points over the Philadelphia Eagles.
    • Over/Under Total Points: The total points scored by both teams is set at 49.5.
    • Coin Toss: Heads (-105) or Tails (-105)
    • First Touchdown Scorer: Travis Kelce (+600), A.J. Brown (+800), Patrick Mahomes (+2000)

    WM Phoenix Open Betting Odds

    The WM Phoenix Open features a competitive field with the following notable odds:

    • Scottie Scheffler: 3-1
    • Sam Burns: 22-1
    • Nick Taylor: 55-1
    • Sungjae Im: 22-1
    • Jake Knapp: 125-1
    • Hole-in-One Prop Bet: Yes (+120), No (-150)

    Fun Parlay Betting Combinations

    Here are some intriguing parlay combinations that blend outcomes from both the Super Bowl and the WM Phoenix Open, along with their potential payouts on a $100 bet:

    1. Favorites Parlay:
      • Super Bowl: Kansas City Chiefs to cover the 1.5-point spread (-110).
      • Golf: Scottie Scheffler to finish in the top 5 (-150).
      • Coin Toss: Heads (-105).
      • Parlay Odds: +450
      • Payout: $100 bet wins $450.
    2. Underdog Upset Parlay:
      • Super Bowl: Philadelphia Eagles to win outright (+120).
      • Golf: Nick Taylor to finish in the top 10 (+500).
      • Hole-in-One: Yes (+120).
      • Parlay Odds: +1300
      • Payout: $100 bet wins $1,300.
    3. High-Scoring and High-Performance Parlay:
      • Super Bowl: Total points over 49.5 (-110).
      • Golf: Sam Burns to finish in the top 5 (+450).
      • First Touchdown Scorer: A.J. Brown (+800).
      • Parlay Odds: +2500
      • Payout: $100 bet wins $2,500.
    4. Longshot Parlay:
      • Super Bowl: Philadelphia Eagles to win by more than 7 points (+275).
      • Golf: Jake Knapp to finish in the top 10 (+1100).
      • First Touchdown Scorer: Patrick Mahomes (+2000).
      • Parlay Odds: +7500
      • Payout: $100 bet wins $7,500.
    5. Quick Thrill Parlay:
      • Coin Toss: Tails (-105).
      • First Touchdown Scorer: Travis Kelce (+600).
      • Hole-in-One: Yes (+120).
      • Parlay Odds: +1400
      • Payout: $100 bet wins $1,400.

    Combining bets from the Super Bowl and the WM Phoenix Open can add an extra layer of excitement to your sports weekend. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the game!

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