Howls

Golf Books

When it comes to golf instruction, the best books that I have come across are Dave Pelz’s Putting Bible and Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible, both written by Dave Pelz.

These books appeal to me because they don’t just tell you what to do, they explain why and how the techniques were developed.  For many people that isn’t important.  If you are one of those people then these books may be a tough read for you.

Also, keep in mind that Dave does recommend a tremendous amount of repetition in practice which is a large commitment.  But if you are ready to make this kind of commitment to improve your game from 100 yards in then these books will help.

Course Architecture

I have also read a wonderful book on course architecture by Dr. Michael J. Hurdzan.  Golf Course Construction: Design, Construction & Restoration is a very detailed and interesting read.  While it is aimed primarily at those who might want to get into the course architecture business, it gives a glimpse into the mind of those who design courses.  It addresses issues of strategy and the various approaches that designers take.  It can be a valuable tool for improving your strategy and mental game.

Movies

While having golf as an integral part of a movie is nice, it is still important to have a great story. We can see great golf almost every weekend on the PGA, LPGA or other professional tours.

When I think about golf movies there are 3 that come to mind as favourites. I know that there are some other great movies out there, but I am a big fan of comedies (romantic and otherwise).

Caddyshack

I know that Caddyshack is meant to poke fun at golf or at least the pretentiousness of private golf clubs, but I just love the zany humour. It doesn’t hurt that there is a pretty decent plot line following the main character, Danny. And who can resist a dancing gopher?

Tin Cup

This one falls in the romantic comedy genre. I like the struggle to find the balance between passion and control, both in the game and in life, that we see in the character of Tin Cup. “It made me laugh. It made me cry.” All in all, a fun movie.

Happy Gilmore

What can I say about Happy Gilmore. Its childish and inane at times, but any movie that combines 400 yard drives, hockey fights and Bob Barker can’t be all bad. I guess I better finish this up so I can go watch it again 8=)

Others

There are many other movies that I enjoy and if you like the 3 above, you might find these fun as well. The aren’t golf related but they are fun to watch.

• One Crazy Summer: Once there was a lonely guy …
• OC and Stiggs: Finally, a use for an Edsel!
• The Princess Bride: “Is this a kissing book?”
• The Party: Birdy num-num!
• A Knights Tale: Watch the deleted scenes — some great scenes were cut for time
• Secondhand Lions: Cain, Duvall, Osmet — fantastic together
• Kit Kittredge: Great fun for the family
• Blues Brothers: Great music, great car chases, they’re on a mission from God!

Magazines

It seems that magazines have become less a part of my life with the influx of information available online. However, there are still times when having a magazine in your hands can’t be beat. There are a few that I like to turn to at those times.

Golf

Golf magazine has been a favourite of mine for many years. There is a wonderful blend of articles covering the Tours and stars, instruction, equipment and travel. While I tend to read just about everything (including many of the ads in the back) I come again and again to the instructional articles and tips.

Golf Digest

The folks at Golf Digest do a wonderful job as well. They get the same thorough read through as Golf. They have a wonderful selection of articles as well.

Others

In the non-golf world there is really only one magazine that I regularly read. That is Mother Earth News. Living in a rural setting in Muskoka, I love the articles on sustainable living and eco-friendly lifestyles that fill each issue. They are usually not thorough enough for me but the inform me of topics that I can follow up online.