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Birthday Golf – The GK Way (Part III)

FREE Birthday Golf Specials

Greenskeeper.org LogoPart 3 and summary so far for one of members Nickesquire who took it upon himself to test out the GK Birthday Golf List and put her to the test.  Here are his conclusions so far.  

It was a fun but tiring week.

There are only a couple of more local courses I am going to hit on B-Day deals this week. I can get almost as good a deal on the lower end courses with different online specials playing whenever I want and when it would be more convenient for me. That is preferable to utilizing a $15 B-day special that is 150 to 200 miles round trip away.

While few other than myself or Sixpex would go to the extreme I did last week, I would definitely encourage everyone on GK to utilize B-Day specials and enjoy/support some of your favorite courses.

Rather than the unknown, I now have a few more options with personal knowledge if I am in the Inland Empire, Orange County or San Diego areas for golf.

Taking into account both layout & current course conditions of the new courses played out of my normal geographic area…

Best course I played during the B-Day week: Crossings at Carlsbad

Above average courses I would look forward to playing again when in the area: Legends & Riverwalk

Average courses I would not hesitate to go back to if in the area but would probably not drive specifically for: Dos Lagos, both Classic and Players at Mile Square.

And finally the below average course I would likely never play again: Shorecliffs.

Shown:  (L to R),  Nickesquire and Sixpez, two avid golfers and travelers
Shown: (L to R), Nickesquire and Sixpez, two avid golfers and travelers

And all the fairly local courses in my regular rotation that I have either already played B-Day rounds on or will by weeks end, River Ridge Lakes & Vineyard(often), Soule Park (when I can get up to Ojai) and Elkins Ranch (Occasionally), I will continue to work into my regular local rotation.

I personally would like to thank all the courses that offer B-Day incentives. I wonder why more courses do not. Seems like they are missing the boat from a marketing perspective? While Shorecliffs struck out with me, Crossings, Legends and Riverwalk will all definitely get my future business because their B-day specials got me in the door to experience their facilities.

 

 

 

FREE Birthday Golf

The Birthday Golf List is FREE to our members.

To join Greenskeeper.org is easy.  Click HERE to join 65,000 other members who have found GK their home for all golf course maintenance schedules and recent, relevant golf course reviews.  Just another reason why Greenskeeper.org is the place that lets our members “Know Before You Go!”

 

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User Tips – Finding Arizona Golf Courses

Course Finder Tools on Greenskeeper.org

It’s that time again in Arizona!

Egad!  Maintenance Alerts!

Invest your time and money wisely with Greenskeeper.org as your resource for your latest golf course reviews and maintenance alerts.

Truthfully, aeration and maintenance are a necessary part of any golf course operator’s life.  The problem is getting though this period is hell for the regular Joe Golfer like you and me.  And although every possible consideration has been made by the Superintendent to make this period of time as stress-free as possible, it can be a significant let-down.  I don’t know about you, but for me personally if a golf course operator doesn’t volunteer the information, I feel cheated.

Thank goodness there is a site like Greenskeeper.org!

Navigate through the myriad of golf course maintenance and aeration alerts with ease as well as any other time using Greenskeeper.org’s Course Finder interface.  Check out the video from JohnnyGK, founder of Greenskeeper.org and get the scoop on what your local area golf courses are doing.  “Know Before You Go,” with Greenskeeper.org.

Consult us daily for up-to-date golf course maintenance alerts and relevant golf course reviews of your favorite golf courses in Arizona.

Know Before You Go with Greenskeeper.org.

Greenskeeper.org LogoAbout Greenskeeper.org:
Greenskeeper.org is the largest online golf community and is currently expanding across the nation. Look for its iPhone app to be launched summer 2015. It is the essential golf portal for every level of golfer from enthusiast to casual. With over 1800 golf courses listed, thousands of up-to-date reviews by more than 65,000 registered members, Greenskeeper.org services over 150,000 site visitors monthly with everything a golfer needs to “Know [about a golf course] Before You Go!” ®

If you like this or any other article here on Greenskeeper.org be sure to “share it” with the buttons below!

Keyword:  Golf Course Reviews Arizona

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Aimpoint Clinic: My Personal Odyssey to Putting Enlightenment (Part IV)

Aimpoint Golf Review: Part 4 of my Aimpoint Odyssey

AimpointApril 9, 2011

I played golf this morning. I played at my home course, and my friend had me come out early… like 2nd group off early. It’s 3 of us, and these 2 guys are intent on finishing in under 3 hours. Obviously, this is bad for me and my green reading. I want to pace off the putt, find my zero, figure out my aimpoint, aim my aimpoint, take my practice swings to dial in my speed…. and these guys are playing ultra ready golf. There were a few times where at least one guy finished while I was still not on the green. Ultimately, I didn’t mind, since I knew what I was getting into, so I just had to adjust. I’m a decent speed player… I normally spend most of my time on the greens. I don’t take long at all with my full swings. So on the greens, I did my best to quickly find zero, pace off my putt. If my putt was <2% slope and inside 10 ft, and I was close to zero, I would just estimate a 1 inch aimpoint, give or take, depending on what kind of break I SAW with my eyes. If I was further, or it was a more complicated putt, I’d work as fast as possible, which meant trusting my feet quickly, find a zero quickly, pace off quickly, look at my chart quickly, one practice swing, commit. On a few holes, I was first on, so I was able to take more time. And maybe on birdie and par putts, I was a little more deliberate, but faster than I was comfortable with.

The Bottom-line

End of story? I putted pretty well. In fact, the comment from my player partner was: “Wow, you’re pretty money on those 10 footers”. I missed a 10 footer on 18, and his comment was: “First one of those you missed all day”.

And I did make about 6 7-10 footers. I lagged really well. I misread maybe 3-5 putts. As usual, my misreads was playing a break when the putt was straight. I’m still trying to figure that out… The different green shapes complicate things, and I’m not seeing the multiple straight putts around the hole. Overall, 6 weeks into this, my putting has improved immensely, and I still don’t know what I’m doing!!!! I think most of it is my focus on speed control. I make more putts because I take advantage of the capture speed concept (see part IV). But alot of it is also committing to the line, trusting the system, so that ALL I have to worry about is speed control. My confidence is high, even though I’m not 100% confident that I know the system. Weird, I know.

About GK Member michaelko:
Our resident physical therapist from Northern California and one of the original GK Staffers. He is also one of the individuals responsible for making the GK Casual Golf Events possible. Way back when it was only an idea, michaelko, was one of those individuals that made it possible with our first outing of six members at Rio Hondo Country Club, Downey CA.

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Birthday Golf – The GK Way (Part II)

FREE Birthday Golf Specials

Read all about it in our Forums HERE.  Nickesquire’s quest to play as many golf courses that offer Birthday specials (i.e. FREE golf on your Birthday) continues.  His first golf course — Mile Square Park.

Day 1, Mile Square (Fountain Valley) Players in the a.m., Classic in the p.m. (36 holes of fun!)

Mile Square Golf CourseI left the house @ 4:55am and after grabbing a quick snack, was in the Mile Square Pro Shop a little after 7am. I had called the day before and they would not give me a tee time as a single, but advised me that it was “wide open”, should be no issue getting me out.

Wide Open? It was packed like on a weekend, 4some after 4some. I finally got out matched up with a 3some and teed off @ 8:52am after waiting over 90 minutes. Played a very enjoyable round with 3 senior ladies in 4.5 hours. Shot 86 on the Players. After holing out on 18, walked over and met Dave @ the Pro shop for the afternoon round.

Mile Square Players Course -- Fountain Valley CAPlayed the Classic with Dconnally & Stickboy. Again played in about 4.5 hours after teeing off a little later than our 2:07pm tee time, finished around 6:45p. Drove and picked up dinner and my wife @ her office in L.A. and got home around 9:15p. Fun day, good company, Vince (Stickboy) played solid golf throughout and Dave (Dconnally) put on a show on the back 9 with fairway, green, 2 putt par on about 7 holes. They both shot around 80, I was definitely getting fatigued by the end of the walking 36 marathon coupled with driving over 200 miles total and close to 5 hours in the car.

Day 2, Legends (Temecula) in the a.m., Dos Lagos (Corona) in the p.m.

The Legends Golf Club - Temecula CAHad a 7:20am tee time, again on the freeway before 5 and made the 127 mile trip to Temecula, getting there a little after 7am. Rat-Patrol (Jim) was there waiting and raring to go. We ran into 1Rudedog, who was playing with his normal buddies behind us. We tee off on time and played a leisurely 4 hour round as a 2some. Both using our B-Day week-of certificates. Tough to beat $15! Both shot 84 and had a good time. So we both hit the freeway and headed north, 35 minutes to Corona.

Dos Lagos Golf Course - Corona CAWe walked in and Dos Lagos had us on the 1st tee within 15 minutes of arriving. We again used our B-Day week-of certificates, again $15 with a cart is hard to beat. We had another enjoyable, leisurely 4 hour round. Jim was playing some good golf and shot 78, I stayed with him for awhile before fading to an 87. Thanks much to Jim for making the trip up from San Diego., it was a blast playing with you!

I was glad all 36 today was with a cart after the walking & driving I did yesterday. The 250+ miles I drove today were a piece of cake with little traffic both ways compared to battling L.A. work traffic last night. Got home @ 7pm.

Day 3, A.M. Shorecliffs (San Clemente), P.M. Crossings at Carlsbad (Carlsbad)

Shorecliffs Golf Course -- San Clemente CAShorecliffs in the A.M. I was expecting ALOT more. Free golf and free cart = great start. However, I was kicking myself AD for not going to Tustin Ranch and paying $40 on my way to S.D. Combination of my cheapness and a little bit of Sixpez (wanting to play a new course) made me go for the free golf over what I knew would be a good course.

The course was in poor condition and the layout was tight and not good in my opinion. Put it this way, I won’t come back for a free B-Day round in the future. Enough said.

The Crossings at Carlsbad -- Carlsbad CACrossing at Carlsbad in the P.M. Headed the 45 minutes farther down the coast for another totally free round. Everything about this place was an excellent experience. The firm, smooth, medium-fast greens seemed like a 15 on the stimp after playing on the bumpy slow greens of Shorecliffs in the a.m. The course layout reminded me alot of the Creekside-Ridgeline 9’s @ Moorpark C.C. Fabulous clubhouse, attentive customer service, the whole place was first rate. I think I already have Tustin Ranch and Crossings booked in my mind for next May 7th as places I want to experience on an annual basis. I would play here semi often if it were not well over 100 miles from my house.

Day 4, Riverwalk (San Diego) in the A.M., Riverview (Santa Ana) in the P.M.

Riverwalk Golf Club - San Diego CARiverwalk in the A.M. Had a 6:57 tee time. Slightly before 7am, it was pouring. So I waited until a little after 8 to pay my $19 B-Day rate and start in a slight drizzle. Even in the rain, the greens were firm, medium fast and putted excellent. These greens were even better than Crossings overall! They have 27 holes here and I liked all 3 nines. This is a course I would play often if I lived in the S.D. area. I liked the layouts and the condition of the things that mattered were great.

Played the Friars-Presido combo 1st. The 2nd 9 was the only really bad rain I encountered on a rainy Friday. For about an hour it rained hard. Not a shock that 9 was by 6 strokes my highest nine hole score of the day, ended up with a 93 after an excellent front 9 considering the conditions.

I had been forewarned by numerous people that Riverview was nothing special. Couple that with a 2 hour drive north and very questionable weather conditions, I was wavering on making the drive north not knowing if I could even play there in the afternoon. So with the assistance of JohnnyGK, did an audible and just stayed at Riverwalk AD. John got me set up for a comped replay so I could play all 3 nines. So it was off to the Mission-Presido combo. Weather was much improved, sprinkled on me a few times, but got around quickly playing as a single and shot 87. Still only 2:45, so did another replay and got in the Mission-Friars combo and played with a couple of different groups for a few holes each as I played with and through different combos. Other than one 15 minute stretch where it poured, the weather was the best of the day, shot 82.

So 54 holes here made for an excellent day of golf in spite of the inclement weather. Started @ 8:05, finished @ 5:55, so averaged barely 3 hours a round considering going into the pro shop to make accommodations for the next round & waiting to tee off again in between. POP was excellent, not many golfers out due to the weather.

So the final tally of the B-Day blitz, week one was:

Nine 18 hole rounds of golf on regulation courses in 4 days.

If you count each combo on Riverwalk as a new course, 9 new courses.


 

The Tally

  • 809 total miles driven, not counting my return trip home from S.D. tomorrow.
  • $19 highest fee paid for 18 holes & a cart over the last 7 rounds. Since several rounds were totally free, it was far less than $1 a hole spent on actual golf on B-Day promotions. Slightly more than $100 spent on gas.
  • GKers played a round with = 3.
  • Fun had = much.
  • Needing a rest today = VERY much!

 

However, after taking Mothers Day weekend off, on Monday the assault starts anew. There are still over a 1/2 dozen courses that offer B-Day deals within a week after your B-Day. Several of which I have never played. So many courses, so little time!

 

FREE Birthday Golf
FREE Birthday Golf

The Birthday Golf List is FREE to our members.

To joining Greenskeeper.org is an easy.  Click HERE to join 65,000 other members who have found GK their home for all golf course maintenance schedules and recent, relevant golf course reviews.  Just another reason why Greenskeeper.org is the place that lets our members “Know Before You Go!”

 

 

Nickesquire - Avid Golfer
Nickesquire – Avid Golfer

Nickesquire — self proclaimed golf junkie.  He is one of the reasons why the GK community offers so much to so many people.  We love golf and so does Nick.  He is what you would characterize as an extremely avid golfer and southern gentleman — and that in his spare time.  In between the rounds of golf he teaches and practicing attorney.

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Avid Golfer Testimonials about Greenskeeper.org

You Like Us, You Really Really Like Us!

This should have been posted a long time ago because there is no greater validation to what Greenskeeper.org provides than what golfers are saying about it. Over the years we have received hundreds of e-mails, messages and posts appreciating our service. Thank you for all the kind words.  JohnnyGK – John Hakim – Founder.


User Testimonies – Greenskeeper.org

11-3-2015: Craig123 – Member Since 2005
The service that Greenskeeper provides is second to none. Although I don’t post often, I mostly check for reviews before playing a new course and maintenance alerts. I have hooked quite a few friends on GK also including my son that just posted a review on Birch Hills (joshcourtney09).

10-29-2015: abbacat – Member Since 2015
Thank you for having a fun, informative, positive, upbeat, and non judgemental website and Facebook page. The kind of comments on Facebook on the pages of golf digest and others can be downright cruel at times. And I was foolish enough to think that all golfers could be nice to each other just because we all love that crazy game. I’m very happy to have found greenskeeper.

10-3-2015: fresnobatt – Member Since 2009
Greenskeeper.org is one of my favorite websites. I use it while traveling before playing any new golf courses (I am at 274 courses now) and try to add a review anytime I can add to the information already online.

10-3-2015: tu24la – Member Since 2015
All the YELP and Google reviews are pretty outdated, and they’re just ranting. I’ve found Greenskeeper.org to be the best at letting me know the conditions. The folks who contribute seem to be golfers who really like the game more than those on YELP. I may not be able to contribute all the time, but will certainly try. Thanks for the nice site.

7-31-2015: grantar2 – Member Since 2015
I just appreciate the site being here. Now that I have been sort of forced into semi retirement, I am golfing more, and have less money to golf on. This site is really a big help in trying to get the most out of my investment in time and resources. The course tips are really valuable. Even if you know a course, they can help you see it in a different way. The forums are cool. Pretty obvious the contributors run from high handicappers like myself, to scratch golfers or better. Good attitudes as well.

7-28-2015: BGarcelon – Member Since 2015
GK is a great site. I enjoy checking on it daily and reading the reviews.

6-23-2015: nimphier – Member Since 2010
My name is Rich Nimphie, and I am currently a resident of Michigan.  I had an opportunity to spend about 6 months living in Los Angeles last year, and as an avid golfer without a lot of knowledge about courses in the area, I found your site to be extremely useful in finding good courses to play within my budget, and once I gained some knowledge about some of the courses I liked, being able to monitor course conditions and when different courses had recently punched their greens, so I could avoid those places until they were in better condition was great. Now that I am back in Michigan, I find myself really wishing that we had the same kind of resource available here. I think that with the large number of avid players in the state, adding a section to greenskeeper.org for Michigan would be very well received.  I’m not sure exactly what is involved, but I would be willing to offer my assistance in getting such a community set up.  I have a pretty good network of very avid players that I interact with on a regular basis both in person and online, and I think these connections would make it pretty easy to get the word out quickly and to raise awareness of the new resource that could be made available.

6-11-2015: Cheeseburger – Member Since 2002
One of the things I missed by living overseas in India for four straight years, was being able to participate in Greenskeeper.org reviews and most especially the events! While I now live in Utah, and away from the mecca of Southern California where we all started, (I started posting on GK in November of 2002!) I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to see the growth of the site and the inclusion of surrounding states! One of the things I have truly enjoyed about being a long time member, and considering JohnnyGK a friend, is the fact that he has always stayed in touch with me, and encouraged me to start posting my reviews for the Utah and Nevada area! Johnny, you have really fostered a family atmosphere from the beginning, and your passion shows! I am always out here preaching the Greenskeeper gospel! Keep up the good work, this place has been an awesome part of my life! Knoweth before thou goest!

5-25-2015: Tony-Tull – Member Since 2011
This site is the greatest place for up-to-date information on course conditions, and I just try to do my part. It’s literally saved me numerous times!

5-22-2015: ringworld – Member Since 2004
I know of no other website that offers as comprehensive a listing and as deep of a list of golf course reviews for daily fee courses and maintenance conditions that it maintains. Believe me I have looked. Other sites may claim they have these tools but in truth this is the ONLY website.

The main thing any golfer wants to know is where to play. All things being equal after they made the purchase for their equipment, after all the lessons and swing tweaks, the only question they ask themselves time and again is where to play. Here GK delivers in spades. And it is here that GK can help shape decisions. If we (avid golfers) are only 20% of the golfing public and yet we account for almost 70% of golf course revenue then we are a powerful coalition albeit disorganized. GK brings organization to that cacophony of other review sites.  Pound for pound, all other websites are lightweights compared to what GK has to offer.

5-22-2015: weber – Member Since 2002
I feel sorry for the majority of the country which does not have GK available to them. This is far and away the standard by which all golf websites should be judged and compared too. I can’t imagine not having this available for reference. I am traveling to Wisconsin/Illinois/Iowa next month and it is very burdensome to secure information which would be simple to secure were GK available. I miss not having it and I have not even left yet!

5-12-2015: mjquick – Member Since 2003
I love the sight, it’s always the first place I go when I’m going to a new course or for course updates.

5-11-2015: mtaylo1 – Member since 2003

Thank you for such a well organized and informative site. Others have tried to copy it but I always use greenskeeper as the go to site when I want any course info.

5-11-2015: Sixpez – Member Since 2003
Johnny. It’s clear how much you love what you do and you should know how grateful all of us GK’ers (and even those lurkers) are for everything you do. You’re making a positive impact in the golf community and in our lives. I’m sure I speak for everyone in saying how appreciative we are.

5-11-2015: Audac1ty – Member Since 2006
Johnny, you have been an inspiration from the first words spoken to me which were: “Hi, I’m JohnnyGK, welcome to Greenskeeper!”

The world of golf expanded for me from that humble beginning and I’ve come to know many of the active members of the golf community here on Greenskeeper. We play golf together, interact in the forums, support charitable institutions, provide laughter, camaraderie, personal support, and good natured ribbing to each other! It was all envisioned by a man who thought he could bring golfers together into one cohesive group for the betterment of the game of golf and serving the members by providing outstanding outings through his never ending dealings with sponsors, golf course management, manufacturers, and on, and on…… He has succeeded in a most spectacular manner!

His vision and leadership make Greenskeeper.org the logical choice for golfers in the United States and beyond.

Please join me in thanking JohnnyGK for his tireless efforts on our behalf!

5-6-2015: tesuquegolfer – Member Since 2015
I have used the site previously as it is the only place to see aerification schedules, which is great information. I have passed the site onto friends and I plan to provide reviews and updates as that seems to be weak in my area. Hopefully the sire will grow, I will do what I can as we need a better site here in NM. Thanks, Randy

4-29-2015: mabogli44 – Member Since 2008
Just wanted to commend you with your website……Before I play a course, I make sure to logon to your site for the latest info and specials.

4-26-2015: dsal_13 – Member Since 2014
It’s a great site you have going on here. I think every golfer has a benefit from coming on here. GK app was a reason for the iPhone move (iPhone just has better apps in general).

4-23-2015: bptaylor10 – Member Since 2014
I really love the website – I check it daily and tell all my friends to do the same. It actually saved my buddy from playing Talega the other day.

4-22-2015: 714Lefty – Member Since 2015
Thank you very much John! I enjoy reading reviews on courses when I go play them even if I have played the course before. I like to know what shape the greens are in and how the layout is, staff, etc. Great website with lots of info!

4-17-2015: Magic32 – Member Since 2015

I’ve been using your service for years and figured it was time to give back. You’re invaluable to the avid golfer, especially this time of year. Thanks again.

3-30-2015: jsapiandante – Member Since 2012
I’m glad I joined this site. The members and especially you have been spectacular in helping golfers like me “know before you go”.

3-8-2015: hsiebert – Member Since 2009
I’ll be using everything and continuing to spread the word about us. I think you and the other staffers are doing a great job. I’m on our site at least daily to see what’s going on around the courses and the forums.

2-9-2015: divotnjay – Member Since 2013
I’m always sporting the hat when I’m golfing. Always get compliments on the hat you gave me. I always mention this website to my friends and fellow golfers and they love it, just think this site is awesome. Keep up the good work. Hope to meet you guys soon at an outing.

1-27-2015: cencalhack – Member Since 2015
Great site by the way! I originally found your site and BAAmerica while trying to find reviews for a trip to SD, just took me awhile to get signed up. I originally/still review for golfnow/advisor, but I feel (know) the members here have more knowledge and are more objective with their reviews.

12-21-2014: jerinthebox – Member Since 2012
I’ve been getting more into the social media part of the game lately, and GK has been a great resource for me over the past few years so I figured it was time to start adding something to the table. I’ll start posting some photos here and there as well.

12-9-2014: mikeyg – Member Since 2012
Thanks to your website I discovered La Purisima and actually got engaged there, facebook link below. I’ve actually got a few other courses to review and am headed to Rams Hill Monday for their deal (once again, thanks to your website).

12-2-2014: kllychpmn – Member Since 2014
I love your site it makes picking a course with no maintenance issues and a difficulty level that’s right for my group much easier for example looking at your reviews my hunch was the crossing at carlsbad would be too tough for a couple of my guys after playing it as a single I know this to be true . I think this under appreciated info that your site provides

12-1-2014: lamitchw – Member Since 2012
I always tell people about your site, and they always thank me later 🙂

11-12-2014: johnl2000 – Member Since 2008
I visit Greenskeeper.org regularly to check out courses of interest and find the reviews invaluable, particularly if a course is offering a groupon or some other special.

11-10-2014: roberkpan – Member Since 2014
GK is an awesome resource especially since I’m new to the area and still learning which courses are the best. I’ll continue to review every course I play with the hope that somebody else out there gets something informative.

11-9-2014: JSpin – Member Since 2009
Anything I can do to keep this great site going. What a resource this is for us golfers.

11-6-2014: larryq2001 – Member Since 2003
I love GK.org. I go to it frequently and suggest my friends do the same. I planned my recent golf trip based on the comments of others in GK and felt that I should give some of my own feedback.

11-4-2014: AndrewZ28 – Member Since 2012
Even though it pains me to say that my 8-hole round was only my fifth time being on the golf course all year, I’m still checking in here at GK almost daily to see how things are going. Keep up the good work!

10-31-2014: sliart – Member Since 2003
LOVE Greenskeeper! Have told many people about the site! Best golf site for info bar none! Thanks for all you do!

10-19-2014: rich888rich – Member Since 2014
I’ve just informed my golf buddies on your site. Hopefully, they will join. Here’s what I wrote:

Hi Fellow Golf Buddies,

I recently joined the Greenskeeper.org, The membership is free. This site offers you reviews on almost any courses in the U S. The course page shows the rating, weather condition, and other vital information on the course.

10-18-2014: sd3bs – Member Since 2005
I use and promote Greenskeeper every time I play!

10-15-2014: walnutgolf – Member Since 2007
Although I mostly play at via verde cc, your site has helped me countless times in terms of selecting occasional other courses to play. Thank you for creating/maintaining such a wonderful site.

10-7-2014: cselkirk – Member Since 2005
I love greenskeeper as it’s a community of likeminded individuals sharing information about a sport we all love. Thank you for creating such a wonderful forum for all of us to communicate with one another. Do you have any plans to open the forum up to courses in the northeast?

7-24-2014: dcsocal – Member Since 2013
Thanks for providing a great forum to talk about golf. Really enjoy the sense of community. I will be posting a bunch more reviews soon.

6-19-2014: sammoorai13 – Member Since 2011
I love your website and I tell everyone about the site. I think the rating system you have in place is great. It really gives you an idea on what to expect on a golf course. Not only that, but it’s simple and has all the things that I want to know about a golf course. Also, the fact that you reach out to people is great. I think it really makes it a much better community. See my information below. By the way, I’ll definitely be reviewing more courses now.

5-5-2014: mk – Member Since 2013
I try to be honest and give my impartial input in the reviews without the need to be too harsh on the courses. Course and condition change throughout the year (depending on time of year) and I try to account for that when I give the ratings. I get a lot out of this website to see how the course condition is before I go play a round and appreciate all the reviews by others who contribute so I feel compelled to contribute whenever I can (or remember to). I will continue to post reviews as this is by far the best peer based golf website.

5-5-2014: jlelek – Member Since 2013
It really helps me select courses with the aeration alerts and ratings so I figure if I contribute the better it will be.

5-18-2014: 140ver – Member Since 2009
Thanks for running this site, it’s very informative, and it’s obvious you’ve got a passion for golf. Love the reviews.

4-14-2014: seanmcnally – Member Since 2006
Love your site and what you’re doing with it. Can’t wait for the app to come out.

3-13-2014: absoludicrous – Member Since 2013
I enjoy the site and the reviews from the members about new courses since I haven’t been playing for very long. I try to read them ahead of time since it helps give me a heads up on what I should look out for. I appreciate the work that you do to keep the site running. It’s awesome.

3-2-2014: Solinari619 – Member Since 2011
I really love the site and everything you guys (and gals) do.

1-30-2014: noeldaof – Member Since 2004
In the beginning, when I first signed up, it was so very cool to see the list of golf courses all over the Southern California area. Although, I am provided a booklet with the list of all the golf courses in So-Cal from the SCGA, the Greenskeeper.org list online was more accessible, therefore it was useful and a very easy access. Greenskeeper.org also went out of their way to give a more extensive user information about golf courses to the community. Golf course conditions’ review were very helpful. Gone were the days of preparing for weeks to play a course only to find it a cow pasture. Pictures were provided and were also a community volunteered effort. I believe that some of the golf courses have cleaned up their act, or their courses, rather… knowing that there are a community of Greenskeeper.org out there who can speak their mind and volunteer an honest opinion to the golfing community.

I’ve enjoyed many courses that I have not played before as well as kept a good timing to visit a course which may not be always at its best through Greenskeeper.org ‘s membership/association.

The GK Forum became a big part of my week in cyber golf community, shortly after. Many folks became friends. Johnny’s invitational outings were fun, followed by Greenskeeper.org events that can make anyone’s golfing experience in an outing a very pleasant one among new found friends who loves to golf. It is here where you can find others who are eager to help volunteer information about golf, a golf course, including equipment and teaching professionals.

I was here when Greenskeeper.org was in its baby stage, and up to now where it’s become a wealth of golf source, but I believe that Greenskeeper.org community members are just beginning to culminate into its highest form. I could only hope for each and all to unite even more… support the golf course reviews, be active and have fun in the outings, volunteer useful golfing information- share the knowledge, find more friends and invite them in…

Looking forward to many more years with Greenskeeper.org!

1-27-2014: lowfi – Member Since 2012
I like this site a lot so I figured I’d contribute. I may be moving to Dallas this upcoming year so I’ll try to start pumping out some reviews for that area. I did some research on courses over there and I’m just not finding much, hopefully I can bring that market around.

10-18-2013: CSpan – Member Since 2013
I became a GK’er immediately because the site fills a critical need…getting honest and reliable information about course conditions. I have stayed a GK’er because it’s a great example of consumers being able to hold retailers (i.e., course operators) accountable. Prior to the existence of GK, we golfers (and especially public golfers), had to just “take it.” Now we don’t have to take it anymore.

8-1-2013: Caligolfer1031 – Member Since 2004
I found the site when I was setting up an outing in Palm Springs for me and 11 buddies and googled Palm Springs golf course reviews and found this site. When I saw how much was going on and the vast information this site had I think it took me all of 5 minutes and I was a member.

I am still a GK’er for three reasons…reviews and maintenance alerts…the information in the forums…and the people. The people on this site love golf as much if not more than I do. They are serious and extremely fun at the same time.

I have played with a few guys outside of GK events and all I had to do was post that I would be in an area on a certain date and asked if anybody would like to play, and sure enough I have met two great people.

The site is an addiction, it is the first site I visit in the morning and the last before I go to bed. I came for the reviews and the people on here are the reason I stay.

8-1-2013: CPennbo – Member Since 2003

Why do I stay? The people. The discussions. The course info. I like being able to find a course, read reviews, know before I go about any work being done. I like talking about golf and our golf experiences- as well as other things. And I totally enjoy the people! After awhile everyone begins to feel like family – it’s nice to see everyone at outings, and keep up with their doings on GK the rest of the time. I often tell people that GKers are a group of really great people who all just happen to play golf! I appreciate that while many on here are serious golfers I haven’t met any who weren’t just an absolute blast to play golf with! We’ve made some great friends on GK over the years!

8-2-2013: Zeppelin51432 – Member Since 2008
I joined simply because I love golf and since I was 15 I’ve been in charge of booking every tee time for my family. They always wonder how I pick great courses! GK is my secret. It’s obvious that everyone is here because we all love the game of golf. AZ, Palm Springs, San Diego, SF, Santa Barbara. Wherever we go Gk is the first place I check for current conditions, reviews, and pictures.

8-2-2013: Rat-Patrol – Member Since 2013
Then I stumbled onto GK and saw that there were aeration notices so started thumbing through the reviews. I probably looked at the site 2 or 3 times before joining so I too could participate.

I now look for new courses to play every weekend (except Sunday tournament days at Balboa!), thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

As most of my playing partners are addicted to early morning Balboa and I am really enjoying playing a bit later in the day (for the first time in probably 20 years) and at different places, I play solo a lot . . . and look forward to meeting new people, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

I now come here to browse courses and use the links provided to go directly to the course web site, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

I now try to pay more attention to the course conditions so as to give an accurate review, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

I really like the GK Cup and the great people I have met so far because of that, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

I now have a “to play” list in my head, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

I look forward to playing in a GK event.

I now see there is a big beautiful golf (course) filled world out there, again, thanks to GK, thanks Johnny!

8-2-2013: Hollis – Member Since 2013
As you know I’ve been a Gker for only a few months now. I was a lurker for maybe two months at most, the dialogue and great interaction was too much to resist. I initially stumbled upon this site as a way to find out all rates on all courses, and the reviews were and still are incredibly helpful. I plan to be a Gker for as long as I continue to play golf, which is for as long as I can swing a club, lol. The vibe that emanates from this online community is like when you get paired up with a stranger that appears to care about the course as much as you do, you know golfers who repair their divot plus any others they see on the green, guys and gals who pick up trash they happen to come across even though it’s not their responsibility. Just a great group of people and can’t wait to play in my first Gkers event.

8-3-2013: RDDenn – Member Since 2006
I wore my Greenskeeper shirt to El Dorado today. The starter mentioned enthusiastically what a great site this is. I think anybody who plays at different courses can appreciate the information the site provides. That is why I became a GKer.

8-4-2013: sbarajasjr – Member Since 2009
I love keeping up to date with course reviews and ratings, I love discovering new courses to play. I am inspired by people like sixpez and his blog. I want to play all the courses that GK members consider favorites of theirs. I love the GK events and hope to see more close to SD County.

8-4-2013: Nickesquire – Member Since 2007
I love the concept and atmosphere that John has created. I enjoy reading others course reviews & ratings and try to contribute back to the community by posting my own. The forums are good, whether you are a hardcore or casual golfer, there is something there for you.

The BEST part about the website? The people…I have made friends with people I enjoy going out for a round with that I would not otherwise have met.

8-8-2013: NutNButCup – Member Since 2004
I am still a GKer for several reasons. First of all it is a GREAT golf site that Johnny has done a phenomenal job growing over the years. Ten years after joining this site I still check GK for aeration alerts and course reviews while planning my next round. Although I do not post often in the forums I do enjoy reading them. For the 3 years or so I participated in the golf outings I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and playing with other GKers. Hopefully in the future I will make it to another outing.

8-9-2013: hsiebert – Member Since 2009
I am always looking for course condition and tee times as this tells me how busy some courses are. At the time that I joined there where only a handful of us up here and there where very few reviews about NorCal courses. I play just about three to four times per week and felt that it would be a welcome service to others if I posted reviews. I usually play in pick-up games or as a single and walk so my round is about 3 hours give or take. I am also a tournament official and love to contribute to all rules discussions in the forum. Having this site allows me to plan my days without stress. Thanks to all that contribute.

8-17-2013: 2xAlbatross – Member Since 2013
I joined about 6 months ago to see how the greens are.. Very disappointing when you are set to play and drive a long way to see that the greens are punched or the course has gone downhill. It is like going out to dinner to a place you have not gone for a while to find out that it has changed owners or cooks and it is not the same no more when you had something else in mind. I would be on/review more but play at least 4 times a week and would be on here a lot. I played a place today that the greens were punched and that is what brought me here today to let somebody else know.

And so many more…

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Club Fitting: Why Shafts Matter

Club Fitting

Think of the shaft as the engine of the golf club. You are swinging the club at 50, 70, or 120 mph and without the right shaft, there is little chance that you can return that club head to the ball consistently. An ill-fitted shaft will twist and bend during your swing in ways that make it nearly impossible to strike the ball squarely with any regularity. Look at slow motion golf swings on the internet and note how much a shaft will torque during the swing and that should confirm in your mind the need to have the right shaft in your clubs.

If you like this or any other article here on Greenskeeper.org be sure to “share it” with the buttons below!

Stock Shafts vs. After-Market Shafts

You’ll hear people ask if a shaft is “stock” or “after market.” What does this mean? A stock shaft is a shaft that comes standard in a golf club that you can purchase off-the-rack at any golf store. An after-market shaft refers to a shaft purchased separate from a club that typically requires a club builder to install it for you. Often you will see a high-end, after-market brand on your stock driver, but don’t think you just got a $300 driver shaft in your $299 driver purchase. The stock versions of these shaft brands are not constructed the same nor do they perform the same as their after-market cousins. See the image below for the real Matrix Ozik Xcon shaft (top) and the Taylor Made version of it.

On rare occasions, a true high-end shaft will be offered stock in golf clubs, but consumers generally won’t know one way or the other. The paint scheme on the stock shaft will be different, but the construction of the shaft may in fact be the real deal. Again, this is the rare exception to the rule and you’ll need to consult with your local club fitter to get the straight scoop.

Do I Need an After-Market Shaft?

The answer to this question varies. In irons, stock steel shafts are typically the same version as the after-market option. A club fitting can determine if you fit into a shaft offered stock in the club head that best suits your swing. Sometimes your swing may be best suited to an after-market shaft not offered by the manufacturer of the club you hit the best. Only a fitting can determine this.

With hybrids, fairway woods, and drivers, after market is typically the best route. Stock shafts offered in these clubs generally perform inconsistently. A common flaw is that they spin more than is optimal, reducing distance. Finding the right after-market shaft is no easy task though. Most golf stores don’t let you test these shafts so you end up buying shafts based on what you’ve heard from friends or what the employee tells you is a “good” shaft. Unfortunately, a “good” shaft may not be good for your swing. Find a club fitter that allows you to test these shafts before you purchase them.

The takeaway is that shafts matter. Quality shafts are manufactured to offer various spin, trajectory, and flex characteristics that should be expertly matched to your swing. Fitting after fitting confirms that most golfers play shafts that make it difficult to have any consistency in their ball flight. While your swing may have a lot to do with inconsistent ball striking, why add a layer of difficulty to the game by playing shafts that don’t produce your best shot when you put your best swing on the ball?

The Fitting Studio is a custom golf club fitting and building business located in Long Beach, CA. Partnered with The Fitting Studio is former professional golfer and UCLA All-American, Travis Matthew Johnson. Travis, who also founded the Travis Mathew Apparel brand, recently sold his interest in TM to pursue more business endeavors within the fashion world as well as the golf industry. For more information about The Fitting Studio, visit www.thefittingstudio.com or email at info@thefittingstudio.com.

Follow us on Twitter! @tfsgolf
Facebook page: facebook.com/fittingstudio

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Aimpoint Clinic: My Personal Odyssey to Putting Enlightenment (Part III)

Part 3 of our Aimpoint Odyssey

AimpointDue to weather and time issues, I have not yet played a round. I have had a 2 hour putting practice session, and I spent 2-3 hours today charting 13 greens at my home course.

The putting session consisted of walking the greens, feeling changes in slope, seeing if I can predict the zero line, see if I can predict how much each putt breaks based on how far off the zero line and using the chart. At the same time, working on speed control (12 inch past the hole).

The charting session consisted of walking the greens, feeling changes in slope, seeing if I can predict the zero lines on different pin placements, identifying high and low points of the green, recognizing different green shapes, using my digital level to chart slope % on different parts of the green. I made a notebook of these greens.

I have also read and re-read the different resources AIMPOINT has as far as examples, message boards, and videos, to understand the more complicated stuff.

So far, after all of this, here is my status:

I am pretty good at feeling where the slopes change from uphill to downhill (inflection points), which is important. I can find the straight putts most of the time(>75% accuracy), and I can tell you which way a putt will break on most greens.

The hard part is understanding how putts act and how greens behave on crowns and saddles. I am starting to understand this. I am also starting to see the more subtle green features, as there are small crowns and saddles on sections of greens and this will affect the putt.

Today, after spending about 15 minutes on a green, I was able to roll the ball and predict where it was going to go, without really ‘reading’ the green. ‘Reading’ in the traditional sense of using my eyes… I used my feet to find the inflection points and correctly predicted the putt most of the time.

I still need practice, but I am very encouraged so far.

Tuesday March 22, 2011 — Update 2:

So I finally got out yesterday… a brief respite from the rain and the kids… played 10 holes by myself twilight… course drained pretty well, and greens were running at an 8. the greens at this course are quite big… it’s a links course, wide open, with big greens.. the greens are not drastic, but have subtle features that are not easy to see. the slopes were rarely over 2%, most of the putts i putted were 1-2% grade.

The fact that I was by myself with no one behind me was helpful. I felt like I wasn’t taking long with my reads… I don’t know. It’s hard to gauge when no one is waiting for you, but here are some results:

• Made one 15 ft putt
• 3 good lags from 40+ feet (less than 5 ft leave)
• 3 bad reads, thought they broke but were straight or overread break (but did not read the wrong break)
and 3 good reads but just missed the putt (either speed or did not hit online)

The hard part was knowing when a putt was straight. On a planar green, it was easy, but when the crowns were involved, it gets tougher… you have 4 zero lines instead of 2, and the putts on top of a crown are all pretty straight, so if the crown is broad, you have more straight putts (if the crown is not tilted).

Also, when the green double breaks, or the line runs into mounds, it’s a bit more complicated, and I’m still trying to figure it out… but the positive is I can feel and see the breaks, and I can figure out the AIMPOINT. I just don’t know how exactly to figure out the zero line on longer putts that change features.

I had one long 60+ foot putt (back of green to front pin location), and I was able to find that zero line 50 feet away and putt accordingly.. left a 1 ft putt.

On the putts inside 15 ft, I was able to use my chart effectively, I think… made good reads and AIMPOINTs.

…Keep in mind, all 10 greens, I did not ‘read’ one green with my eyes. When I use the word ‘read’, I’m talking about feel. I felt the slopes with my feet, tried to find the zero line, and aimed accordingly. I did roll a few balls after I holed out to try and predict what the putts would do.

I continue to be encouraged, and am pretty excited at the idea that I can be an expert green reader. I hope to play 3 or 4 more rounds in the next 2 months, and then contact the instructor for some more advanced green reading instruction.

About GK Member michaelko:
Our resident physical therapist from Northern California and one of the original GK Staffers. He is also one of the individuals responsible for making the GK Casual Golf Events possible. Way back when it was only an idea, michaelko, was one of those individuals that made it possible with our first outing of six members at Rio Hondo Country Club, Downey CA.

Keyword:  Aimpoint Putting Clinic

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Birthday Golf – The GK Way (Part I)

FREE Birthday Golf Specials

Greenskeeper.org LogoFor those of you who don’t know, Greenskeeper.org keeps an exhaustive list of participating golf courses who celebrate your birthday by providing you a FREE round of golf on, you guessed it – your birthday.

Your birthday is an annual event.  Why not do what you enjoy doing for FREE?!  Maybe throw in a few of your old golfing buddies and Viola!  Instant memory you and your friends can look back fondly.  We are not saying to do what one of our members did, but it could be just as memorable.

Allow us to illustrate.

Birthday Golf can be special moments to remember
Birthday Golf can be special moments to remember

One GKer, Nickesquire decided to take his birthday golf experience done the GK Way…. to the next level.  As he put it.

Happy Birthday to me… going to experience first hand exactly what benefits different courses provide on Birthday rounds! — Nickesquire

This is his itinerary.

Tuesday AM Mile Square Players walking on early.
Tuesday PM Mile Square Classic, 207pm with Stickboy & Dconnally.

Wed AM Legends 720am with Rat-Patrol.
Wed PM Dos Lagos walking on, currently wide open after 2.

Thur AM Shorecliffs probably walking on early.
Thur PM Crossings @ Carlsbad probably walking on late. Both courses currently wide open but will only pair me up with less than a 4some after they book, no single bookings.

Staying overnight in S.D., then

Fri AM 657a @ Riverwalk.
Fri PM 145p @ Riverview.

And this is just his start.  Stay tuned for his reviews and his take on putting the FREE Birthday Golf list from Greenskeeper.org to work and how you can make it work for you and your birthday!

FREE Birthday Golf

The Birthday Golf List is FREE to our members.

To join Greenskeeper.org is easy.  Click HERE to join 65,000 other members who have found GK their home for all golf course maintenance schedules and recent, relevant golf course reviews.  Just another reason why Greenskeeper.org is the place that lets our members “Know Before You Go!”