Sports
GET A GRIP
Learn a lesson or two from Tiger Woods’ college golf coach.
From the best of the pros to a first-timer at the country club, everyone seems to have golf fever, thanks to the buzz around this month’s PGA Championship. We caught up with Wally Goodwin, the former head coach at Stanford University who helped Tiger Woods win a national championship in 1996. A member of the Golf Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Goodwin currently heads up the University of Northern Colorado’s men’s golf team. Before you rush onto the green, take some advice and find out the secret to Woods’ success.
What is the biggest mistake recreational golfers make on the green, and how can they correct it?
Recreational players practice their putting so little and then have such great expectations—that’s their problem. They can only correct it by taking lessons from a professional, and then practicing their moves a lot.
How can a recreational golfer get a more accurate swing?
A video camera can be of great help for pointing out flaws and in continuing to determine the best swing—then repeat it many, many times.
What’s the best way to get in shape for golf?
Walk on a treadmill every day, because walking is integral for the sport. Sit-ups and stretching daily to maintain balance and flexibility. Finally, left arm and hand workouts for grip and swing strength.
Any tips for getting out of a bunker?
Lay the club back, cut across underneath and get out, not necessarily close!
What do you think of recent discussions to limit technological advancements in play due to newer clubs and balls that can travel further?
Don’t limit the game by reducing technology… that’s like only trying to get to the moon, and no further. They should make the golf courses tougher to play, requiring more accuracy and less distance.
Why do you love golf?
I love golf because it is exactly like life in most all respects: One has to respect the game, respect his fellow competitors, respect the rules, never give up, be a gentleman and have fun or forget playing!
What do you think distinguishes Tiger from other golfers?
From the minute I first watched him play, he distinguished himself by his ability to concentrate and his desire to make himself a better player in every respect. He has always prepared himself for competition and other events like no other person I have ever known. —Alexandra Calamari
SPORTING EVENT CALENDER
AUGUST 2-5
SUMMER X GAMES Los Angeles
Prepare your lingo (e.g. kickflip, goofy foot and nollie) because the Summer X-Games have arrived. Head to Los Angeles’ Staples Center and Home Depot Center to see the best of BMX, Moto X and skateboarding.
AUGUST 3-5
PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME ENSHRINEMENT & GAME Canton, OH
Newly inducted NflHall-of-Famers will share their memories before watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints kick off the 2007 Nflpreseason at Fawcett Stadium.
AUGUST 14-16
ATLANTA BRAVES VS. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS Atlanta
Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants head to Turner Field for a three game series starting August 14. Tuesday’s game features buy one, get one free upper-reserved seats.
AUGUST 27-SEPTEMBER 9
2007 US OPEN Flushing, NY
Will Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova dominate this year? One thing’s for sure: Andy Roddick and Serena Williams won’t make it easy for them—all the better for the some 600,000 fans who will gather at Arthur Ashe Stadium.