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Local San Diego Teaching Pro in the Mix at the 2023 PGA
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.
“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.
Check back often to stay informed on everything happening on and off the course.
Welcome to the Future of Golf
Forget everything you know about traditional golf tournaments. The Tomorrow Golf League (TGL) is here, and it’s ready to redefine the sport. Imagine the world’s best players, cutting-edge technology, and non-stop action packed into two electrifying hours. Sound good? Let’s dive into what TGL is all about and how you can watch and join in the excitement.
TGL, presented by SoFi, is the brainchild of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. This revolutionary league blends real-life golf with virtual gameplay, creating a high-tech, fast-paced experience like nothing you’ve seen before.
- Six Teams of PGA TOUR Stars: The league kicks off with six stacked teams, each featuring four world-class players.
- Prime-Time Matches: Forget those day-long tournaments—TGL matches are played in just two hours, making them perfect for prime-time TV.
- High-Tech Venue: Matches take place at the state-of-the-art SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, complete with massive screens and an innovative short-game complex.
How Does it Work?
TGL takes place in a hybrid environment that combines the best of virtual and physical golf:
- Virtual Long Shots: Players hit drives and approach shots into a massive 64’ x 53’ simulator screen.
- Live Short Game: Once on the green, the action shifts to the “GreenZone,” a real-life short game area designed to simulate different course conditions.
- Shot Clock: Players have just 40 seconds per shot, keeping the pace fast and thrilling.
- Mic’d Up Players: Hear the strategies, banter, and personalities of the players in real-time.
Each match features 15 holes, broken into team-based “triples” and individual “singles” sessions. Scoring is straightforward, making it easy for fans to follow.
The TGL roster reads like a golf hall of fame. Here’s a breakdown of the teams:
- Atlanta Drive GC: Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay, Billy Horschel, Lucas Glover—a powerhouse team blending experience and firepower.
- Boston Common Golf: Rory McIlroy, Keegan Bradley, Hideki Matsuyama, Adam Scott—loaded with precision and consistency.
- Jupiter Links GC: Tiger Woods, Tom Kim, Max Homa, Kevin Kisner—Tiger’s team is as exciting as it gets.
- Los Angeles Golf Club: Collin Morikawa, Sahith Theegala, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose—a mix of youth and veteran savvy.
- New York Golf Club: Matt Fitzpatrick, Rickie Fowler, Xander Schauffele, Cameron Young—a lethal combination of flair and focus.
- The Bay Golf Club: Ludvig Åberg, Wyndham Clark, Min Woo Lee, Shane Lowry—bringing a global flair to the competition.
With these players on deck, you can expect drama, skill, and jaw-dropping moments every match.
TGL isn’t just golf—it’s an experience. Here’s why fans are buzzing:
- Fast-Paced Action: Two hours of high-intensity golf—no downtime, no filler.
- Star Power: Watch the biggest names in golf go head-to-head.
- Immersive Technology: Feel like you’re part of the action with virtual and live elements.
- Prime-Time Drama: Matches are perfectly timed for evening viewing, making it easy to tune in with family and friends.
The TGL’s inaugural match takes place tonight, January 7, 2025, at 9:00 PM EST. Here’s how you can catch the action:
- TV: Tune in live on ESPN.
- Streaming: Watch on ESPN+ or your preferred streaming platform.
- Global Options: Fans around the world can check local listings for viewing options.
Want to take your fandom to the next level? Here’s how:
- Find Your Team: Take the “Find Your Team” quiz on tglgolf.com and pledge your allegiance.
- Shop Merchandise: Rep your team with official TGL gear.
- Join the Conversation: Follow TGL on social media for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
Hello, everyone! Kelly Hodgeson here, your go-to for all things golf betting. As we gear up for an electrifying week at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas for the 2024 Shriners Children’s Open from October 17-20, I’m here to guide you through the field and share some inside tips on where to place your bets.
Let’s talk about Will Gordon. Despite the odds sitting at +30000, there’s a potential goldmine if he pulls through with a win. A modest $10 bet could turn into $3,010! And if you’re looking for something a bit safer, his top 10 finish at +1800 could return $190 on that same $10. It’s all about finding those hidden gems.
Now, onto the stars of the show—Tom Kim is back, aiming for a spectacular three-peat with odds of 12-1. His performance at the Presidents Cup has everyone buzzing, and rightfully so. Other big names to watch include Davis Thompson and Taylor Pendrith, both with solid 25-1 odds. These players have shown they can handle the pressure, making this tournament anyone’s game.
At Spreads, we made sure even the casual bettor felt like a VIP, and that’s exactly what I’m bringing to Clickit Golf. Whether you’re betting big or just here for the thrill, I’m here to make sure you’re getting the VIP treatment.
Remember, golf is unpredictable, but that’s where the fun lies. Whether you’re here to place a bet or simply enjoy the game, the Shriners Children’s Open is set to be a fantastic display of talent and nerve. So, grab your scorecards and let’s make this tournament one for the books!
Don’t forget the incredible work that Shriners Children’s Hospital does for their patients. Maybe use some of that bankroll to make a bet on them, it’s a sure winner.
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